Indicators of dehydration in healthy 4- to 5-day-old dairy calves deprived of feed and water for 24 hours

Our objective was to identify practical indicators of calf dehydration that could be used in an industry context. Eleven healthy 4-d-old commercial dairy calves were fed 2 L of mixed colostrum, then deprived of food and water for 24 h. Total body water was determined in the fed state using the deuterium dilution method. Body weight, along with a range of behavioral and physiological variables, was recorded 1 h after feeding, then at 90-min intervals through to 24 h. Blood samples were collected at every second sampling to assess changes in plasma hemoglobin, hematocrit, and osmolality. Linear mixed-effects models were used to explore associations between hydration status (% body water) and outcome variables. All calves remained bright and alert with good suckling reflexes throughout the 24-h period. After 24 h, total body water had decreased by an average of 8.4% (standard error 1.18), consistent with mild to moderate dehydration. Skin tent return time, capillary refill time, and detectable enophthalmos were associated with hydration status. Calves with skin tent return times of 3 s or longer were 4.4 percentage points less hydrated than those with return times of less than 3 s. Similarly, a capillary refill time of 3 s or longer was associated with a 4.3 percentage point reduction in hydration compared with refill times of less than 3 s. Calves with detectable enophthalmos (≥1 mm) were 3.5 percentage points less hydrated than those without enophthalmos. The skin tent, capillary refill, and enophthalmos tests are all relatively simple to perform and, although requiring the calf to be briefly restrained, can easily be performed by a single operator. The outcome of these tests was relatively consistent, in that calves above the threshold in any test were 3.5 to 4.5% less hydrated than calves below the threshold. As such, these tests may be of practical utility to identify calves with mild to moderate dehydration in an industry setting.

Post-natal development of EEG responses to noxious stimulation in pigs (Sus scrofa) aged 1–15 days

This study examined electroencephalographic (EEG) indices of acute nociception in pigs (Sus scrofa) aged 1, 5, 7, 10, 12 and 15 days, post-natal. Ten pigs per age were anaesthetised with halothane in oxygen and maintained at a light plane of anaesthesia. EEG was recorded bilaterally using a five-electrode montage. Following a 10-min baseline period, tails were docked using side-cutter pliers and recording continued for a further 5 min. Changes in the median frequency (F50), 95% spectral edge frequency (F95) and total power (PTOT) of the EEG were used to assess nociception. Tail-docking at one day of age induced no significant changes in the EEG spectrum. A typical nociceptive response, characterised by an increase in F50 and decrease in PTOT, was evident at ten days of age, with five and seven day old pigs exhibiting responses in either F50 or PTOT only. Pooling of data into ≤ 7 days of age and > 7 days of age revealed F50 was higher overall in the older group. Whilst PTOT decreased after docking in both groups, this response was larger and more prolonged in the older group. F95 increased after docking in the older pigs only. Overall, these data provide evidence of an increase in cortical responsiveness to noxious stimulation with increasing post-natal age, suggesting there may be qualitative differences in pain perception between age groups. Further, the data provide some support for current recommendations that tail-docking and other painful husbandry procedures be performed within seven days of birth in order to minimise their impact on animal welfare.

Effects of Obesity on the Regulation of Macrophage Population in the Prostate Tumor Microenvironment

Obesity is associated with a greater risk of prostate cancer mortality. However, the mechanisms connecting obesity to the progression of prostate cancer remain unknown. This study determined the impact of obesity on macrophage recruitment and tumor-associated macrophage (TAM) polarization in the prostate tumor microenvironment, since a high concentration of TAMs in tumors has been linked to progression in prostate cancer. We utilized an in vitro model in which pre-adipocytes, prostate cancer cells, and macrophages were exposed to sera from obese or nonobese men, or conditioned media generated under obese or nonobese conditions. Matrigel invasion chambers were used to assess macrophage recruitment in vitro, and immunohistochemical analysis evaluated recruitment in a PTEN knockout mouse model. qPCR was used to measure mRNA levels of CCL2, COX-2, IL-10, TGF-beta, VEGF-A, arginase-1, and MMP-9. PGE2 production was measured by ELISA. Obesity increased macrophage and TAM recruitment, and increased mRNA levels of TAM markers in macrophages. Similarly, obese conditions increased CCL2 and COX-2 expression, as well as PGE2 levels in prostate cancer cells. COX-2 inhibition resulted in lower expression of obesity-induced TAM markers. Our data suggest that obesity promotes macrophage infiltration into the prostate tumor microenvironment, and induces TAM polarization through the COX-2/PGE2 pathway.

A scientific comment on the welfare of domesticated ruminants slaughtered without stunning

This review provides a scientific comment on the welfare of ruminants slaughtered by ventral-neck incision without stunning. Evidence is derived from studies of calves, sheep and goats. Reference is also made to findings in other mammals including humans. Pain is an inherently subjective experience and only indirect indices are available in animals. Neurophysiological tools are widely used in humans to assess pain and have demonstrated that electroencephalographic (EEG) variables correlate well with subjective evaluations of pain. These neurophysiological tools have also been applied in animal studies. In humans pain is associated with major cutting injuries and it is widely accepted that farm animals also experience pain due to such injuries. Overwhelming international scientific opinion has long been that slaughter by neck incision of conscious animals causes pain. A series of studies in calves demonstrated that slaughter by ventral-neck incision is likely to be perceived as painful. It is proposed that, as in cattle, non-stunned sheep and goats would experience pain in a similar manner. The precise assessment of the point after slaughter at which non-stunned animals become insensible remains a major methodological challenge. In sheep it is at least 2-8 seconds, but may be 8-20 seconds in duration. In cattle the mean duration is similar, but can commonly be extended to longer than 60 seconds with occasional instances of even greater durations. Taken together, these findings indicate that because the slaughter of cattle, sheep and goats by ventral-neck incision without prior stunning is likely to cause pain, this poses a risk to animal welfare.

Electroencephalographic evaluation of decapitation of the anaesthetized rat

The objective of this study was to evaluate the changes in electroencephalographic (EEG) power spectrum in response to decapitation of anaesthetized rats, in order to assess the nociception or otherwise of this procedure. Ten young adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were anaesthetized with halothane in oxygen and anaesthesia was maintained at a stable concentration of halothane between 1.20% and 1.25%. The rat's head and neck were placed through the opening of a small animal guillotine so that the blade of the guillotine was positioned over the atlanto-occipial joint of the rat's neck. The EEG was recorded in a five-electrode montage, bilaterally. After recording a 15 min baseline the rat was decapitated by swiftly pressing the guillotine blade and the EEG recording was continued until the signal was isoelectric on both channels. Changes in the median frequency (F50), 95% spectral edge frequency (F95) and total power of the EEG (Ptot) were used to investigate the effects of decapitation. During the first 15 s following decapitation, there were significant increases in the F50 and F95, and a decrease in the Ptot compared with baseline values. There was a clear window of time immediately following decapitation where changes in the EEG frequency spectrum were obvious; these changes in the EEG indices of nociception could be attributed as responses generated by the rat's cerebral cortex following decapitation.

Spontaneous electroencephalographic changes in a castration model as an indicator of nociception: a comparison between donkeys and ponies

REASONS FOR PERFORMING STUDY

Donkeys are believed to be less demonstrative of pain than ponies. Research into comparative sensory processing between these species is required to elucidate these behavioural differences.

OBJECTIVES

To compare changes in the electroencephalogram (EEG) recorded during castration between donkeys and ponies.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective clinical study.

METHODS

Six ponies and 6 donkeys were castrated under halothane anaesthesia after acepromazine premedication and thiopental anaesthetic induction. Markers were inserted into the EEG recording at the time of skin incision (skin) and emasculation (emasc) for both testicles (T1 and T2) during a closed castration. Raw EEG data were analysed and the EEG variables median frequency (F50 ), total power (Ptot ) and spectral edge frequency (F95 ) derived using standard techniques. Baseline values of F50 , Ptot and F95 for each animal were used to calculate the percentage change from baseline at T1skin, T2skin, T1emasc and T2emasc.

RESULTS

Decreased F50 values relative to baseline were observed in 4 ponies and 2 donkeys across all castration time points. In the remaining animals, the F50 value increased compared with baseline. Both donkey and pony groups showed an overall decrease in Ptot values compared with baseline at T1skin, but the magnitude of the decrease was significantly less (P = 0.004) in ponies than in donkeys. Donkeys demonstrated an overall greater increase (P = 0.05) in F95 values at T1skin relative to baseline compared with ponies.

CONCLUSIONS

Electroencephalographic responses to the noxious stimulus of castration were noted in both donkeys and ponies. Donkeys demonstrated a greater change in Ptot in response to castration than ponies; thus, donkeys appear to demonstrate a cerebral cortical response to a noxious stimulus that is similar to or greater than that in ponies, suggesting that their subtle behavioural expression of pain is not due to a difference in cortical processing of noxious sensory stimuli.

Cerebellar cortical abiotrophy in Wiltshire sheep

AIM

To investigate the nature of a neurological disease in Wiltshire sheep.

METHODS

Three affected lambs were examined, humanely killed and necropsied. Selected neurological tissues were examined by light and electron microscopy.

RESULTS

Primary neurological lesions were confined to the cerebellum and were characterised by loss of Purkinje cells and the presence of large hypertrophied dendrites of surviving Purkinje cells. These contained stacks of smooth endoplasmic reticulum. There was hyperplasia and cell swelling of Bergmann glia. Mild Wallerian-type degeneration affected white matter in the cerebellum and spinal cord.

CONCLUSION

The cerebellar lesions were of a degenerative and reactive rather than hypoplastic nature. These, and the history, suggest a genetic cause with putative inheritance as an autosomal recessive trait. Accordingly, the disorder is described as a cerebellar abiotrophy.

[Effect of ethanol on synthesis of serine and exchange of methyl groups in hepatocytes by NMR spectroscopy]

The method of NMR spectroscopy was used to investigate the role of voltage-dependent anion channels in the outer mitochondrial membrane in the mechanism of ethanol hepatotoxicity using the synthesis of serine and exchange of methyl groups in hepatocytes metabolizing 13C-labeled glycine. Here we present and describe a methodological approach developed for the independent monitoring of the synthesis of serine in two intracellular compartments: the cytoplasm and mitochondria of intact hepatocytes, and quantification of different serine isotopomers synthesized in hepatocytes from 13C-labeled glycine. The data obtained indicate that the treatment of cells with ethanol as well as cysteamine (specific inhibitor of mitochondrial synthesis of serine) suppressed the level of mitochondria but not cytoplasmic serine isotopomers. It is concluded that the decrease in the production of mitochondrial serine isotopomers in hepatocytes exposed to ethanol can be caused not only by decreased permeability of the outer mitochondrial membrane due to the closure of voltage-dependent anion channels and suppression of the exchange of substrates of serine synthesis in mitochondria but also by the restoration of the cytoplasmic and/or mitochondrial pool of pyridine nucleotides (NADH) during the oxidation of ethanol. Our work reveals a new mechanism of action of ethanol (alcohol intoxication) in hepatocytes through the regulation of glycine metabolism and opens new possibilities in the treatment of alcohol poisoning.

[The role of the voltage-dependent anion channels in the outer membrane of mitochondria in the regulation of cellular metabolism]

The role of voltage-dependent anion channels (VDAC/porins) of the mitochondrial outer membrane in the regulation of cell metabolism is assessed using an experimental model of ethanol toxicity in cultured hepatocytes. It is demonstrated that ethanol inhibits the phosphorylating and the uncoupled mitochondrial respiration, decreases the accessibility of mitochondrial adenylate kinase in the intermembrane space, and suppresses ureagenic respiration in the cells. Treatment with digitonin at high concentrations (>80 μM)—which creates pores in the mitochondrial outer membrane, allowing bypass of closed VDAC—restores all the processes suppressed with ethanol. It is concluded that the effect of ethanol in hepatocytes leads to global loss of mitochondrial function because of closure of VDAC, which limits the free diffusion of metabolites into the intermembrane space. Our studies also reveal the role of VDAC in the regulation of liver-specific intracellular processes such as ureagenesis. The data obtained can be used in development of pharmaceuticals that would prevent VDAC closure in mitochondria of ethanol-oxidizing liver, thus protecting liver tissue from the hepatotoxic action of alcohol.

Developmental changes in the electroencephalogram and responses to a noxious stimulus in anaesthetized tammar wallaby joeys (Macropus eugenii eugenii)

The tammar wallaby joey is born extremely immature and most of its neurological development occurs in the maternal pouch. It is not known at what in-pouch age functions such as conscious sensory perception commence. We determined the electroencephalographic (EEG) responses to noxious stimulation in lightly anaesthetized tammar wallaby joeys. Baseline median (F50) and spectral edge (F95) frequencies, total power (Ptot) and frequency spectra between 1 and 30 Hz of the EEG power spectrum were determined. Joeys aged less than 127 days showed little or no EEG activity. Prolonged periods of spontaneous EEG activity were present by 142 days. This activity increased, as did the power in all frequencies, while the duration of any intervening isoelectric periods decreased with increasing in-pouch age. EEG responses to a noxious stimulus (toe clamping) changed with increasing in-pouch age as there was no response from joeys aged 94-127 days (no EEG), a minimal decrease in the F50 in those aged between 142 and 181 days (P = 0.052) and a greater decrease in the F50 in those aged between 187 and 261 days (P < 0.001). The pattern of these changes, which presumably reflects anatomical and functional maturation of the cerebral cortex, is similar to, but develops more slowly than, that reported in the rat. The opening of the eyes and development of the pelage are discussed as markers of when brain development may be sufficient for joeys to consciously perceive noxious sensations including pain.

Influence of human development and predators on nest survival of tundra birds, Arctic Coastal Plain, Alaska

Nest predation may influence population dynamics of birds on the Arctic Coastal Plain (ACP) of Alaska, USA. Anthropogenic development on the ACP is increasing, which may attract nest predators by providing artificial sources of food, perches, den sites, and nest sites. Enhanced populations or concentrations of human-subsidized predators may reduce nest survival for tundra-nesting birds. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that nest survival decreases in proximity to human infrastructure. We monitored 1257 nests of 13 shorebird species and 619 nests of four passerine species at seven sites on the ACP from 2002 to 2005. Study sites were chosen to represent a range of distances to infrastructure from 100 m to 80 km. We used Cox proportional hazards regression models to evaluate the effects of background (i.e., natural) factors and infrastructure on nest survival. We documented high spatial and temporal variability in nest survival, and site and year were both included in the best background model. We did not detect an effect of human infrastructure on nest survival for shorebirds as a group. In contrast, we found evidence that risk of predation for passerine nests increased within 5 km of infrastructure. This finding provides quantitative evidence of a relationship between infrastructure and nest survival for breeding passerines on the ACP. A posteriori finer-scale analyses (within oil field sites and individual species) suggested that Red and Red-necked Phalaropes combined (Phalaropus fulicarius, P. lobatus) had lower productivity closer to infrastructure and in areas with higher abundance of subsidized predators. However, we did not detect such a relationship between infrastructure and nest survival for Semipalmated and Pectoral Sandpipers (Calidris pusilla, C. melanotos), the two most abundant shorebirds. High variability in environmental conditions, nest survival, and predator numbers between sites and years may have contributed to these inconsistent results. We recommend targeted management actions to minimize anthropogenic effects and suggest new research needed on this issue as expanding development is planned for the ACP of Alaska. In particular, we recommend research on demography of key predators and their importance with respect to nest survival, and experimental studies that better address challenges posed by high natural variability.

Electroencephalographic responses to concussive non-penetrative captive-bolt stunning in halothane - anaesthetised calves

AIM

To investigate the electroencephalographic (EEG) and cardiovascular responses of halothane-anaesthetised calves to non-penetrative captive-bolt stunning.

METHODS

Ten calves were minimally anaesthetised with halothane, using an established anaesthesia protocol. The EEG, blood pressure and electrocardiogram (ECG) were recorded before and after non-penetrative captive-bolt stunning. Visual inspection and alterations in the total power of the EEG (Ptot) were used to investigate the effects of stunning.

RESULTS

Captive-bolt stunning significantly altered cerebrocortical function in all animals. In four animals, Ptot decreased immediately following stunning and remained low throughout the recording period. In another five animals, Ptot responded to stunning in a biphasic manner characterised by an immediate decrease followed by a transient increase and then a final decrease to values similar to those of the non-biphasic animals.

CONCLUSIONS

Non-penetrative captive-bolt stunning significantly altered cerebrocortical function in halothane-anaesthetised calves. The changes in cerebrocortical function would be sufficient to produce insensibility within 0 to 14 seconds in conscious animals.

Amelioration of electroencephalographic responses to slaughter by non-penetrative captive-bolt stunning after ventral-neck incision in halothane - anaesthetised calves

AIM

To investigate the ability of non-penetrative captive-bolt stunning delivered after ventral-neck incision to ameliorate responses to noxious stimulation associated with slaughter by ventral-neck incision in halothane-anaesthetised calves.

METHODS

Seven calves were minimally anaesthetised with halothane, using an established anaesthesia protocol. Electroencephalographic (EEG) indices of cerebrocortical activity were measured in response to ventral-neck incision followed 5 seconds later by non-penetrative captive-bolt stunning. Changes in heart rate and arterial blood pressure were measured and instances of occlusion of the carotid arteries were also noted.

RESULTS

After ventral-neck incision there were periods of an active EEG in some calves, which ceased after non-penetrative captive-bolt stunning in most of the animals. Two calves had periods of active EEG following stunning. Arterial blood pressure decreased significantly after neck incision in all calves, including three with occlusion of the carotid arteries.

CONCLUSIONS

Non-penetrative captive-bolt stunning after ventral-neck incision resulted in the cessation of functional cortical activity in the majority of calves. This procedure prevented the development of cerebrocortical responses to ventral-neck incision, demonstrated elsewhere, which would be painful in conscious animals subjected to this procedure. In addition, instances of carotid arterial occlusion had no significant effect on the decrease in arterial blood pressure.

A re-evaluation of the need to stun calves prior to slaughter by ventral-neck incision : an introductory review

Commercial slaughter of farm livestock usually employs an extensive incision that severs the soft tissues of the neck including the major blood vessels supplying and draining the brain. It is intended to cause a catastrophic decrease in cerebral blood flow with rapid onset of unconsciousness or insensibility. The tissues of the neck are innervated with nociceptive nerve fibres and their transection will cause a barrage of sensory impulses. Consciousness, and therefore the ability of the animal to feel pain and experience distress after the incision, may persist for 60 seconds or longer in cattle. These observations suggest that livestock may experience pain and distress during the period before they become unconscious (insensible). Psychological shock and fear may also be associated with the extensive tissue damage and blood loss. Pre-incision stunning has been adopted as a precautionary measure to prevent suffering. However, the question remains: How intense and noxious are these experiences? Recent methodological developments related to quantitative analysis of the electroencephalogram (EEG) allow the experience of pain to be assessed more directly than has hitherto been possible. This methodology has now been applied to the question of the slaughter of calves by ventral-neck incision. The new information demonstrates clearly for the first time that the act of slaughter by ventral-neck incision is associated with noxious stimulation that would be expected to be perceived as painful in the period between the incision and loss of consciousness. These data provide further support for the value of stunning in preventing pain and distress in animals subjected to this procedure.

Electroencephalographic responses to tail clamping in anaesthetized rat pups

We investigated electroencephalographic (EEG) responses to tail clamping in lightly anaesthetized rat pups (5–22 days) in order to determine the ontogeny of EEG activity and at what age they may be capable of experiencing pain. Median frequency (F50) and spectral edge frequency (F95) of the power spectrum in the range of 1–30 Hz were determined before and after the application of a noxious stimulus and power spectra were compared by multivariate analysis. There was a postnatal increase in EEG power as, before clamping, pups aged 5–7 days exhibited isoelectric traces, whereas those aged 12–14 days and 21–22 days had intermittent EEG activity where the power in all frequencies was significantly lower at the former than at the latter age. Pups aged 5–7 days exhibited no EEG response to clamping in view of their isoelectric traces. Pups aged 12–14 days showed a significant decrease in F95 ( P = 0.002), whereas those aged 21–22 days showed highly significant reduction in F50 and F95 ( P = 0.028 and P < 0.001, respectively) as well as changes in EEG power of specific frequencies after clamping. The results and related literature suggest that rat pups aged 5–7 days and younger are not likely to perceive pain and that the ability to perceive pain develops gradually between postnatal ages 12–14 days and 21–22 days.

Export of dissolved organic carbon from a ponded freshwater marsh receiving diverted Mississippi River water

A series of diversion projects has been implemented to reintroduce Mississippi River water into Louisiana's coastal wetlands in order to reduce wetland loss. The export of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) was measured in a 3,700-ha ponded freshwater marsh that receives diverted Mississippi River water. Results show that highly organic marsh soil and plant material are a source of DOC. DOC, on average, was 3 mg/l greater in outlet water as compared to the concentration in river water entering the wetland. DOC in water leaving the marsh was higher in summer months, with a concentration up to 18 mg/l. Based on a discharge of 1,000 ft/sec (28.3 m/sec), it was estimated that the equivalent of 7,335 kg/day of DOC would be exported from the marsh into Lake Cataouatche, located in the northern portion of the Louisiana Barataria Basin estuary. Results suggest that river diversion would likely increase the export of DOC from the marsh as compared to normal transport associated with rainfall and tidal exchange.

Comparative effects of halothane, isoflurane, sevoflurane and desflurane on the electroencephalogram of the rat

Inhalant anaesthetic agents are commonly used in studies investigating the electroencephalographic (EEG) effects of noxious stimuli in animals. Halothane causes less EEG depression than isoflurane, however, the EEG effects of halothane, isoflurane, sevoflurane and desflurane have not been compared in the same model. This study aimed to compare the EEG effects of these inhalational agents in the rat. Forty male Sprague-Dawley rats were assigned to four groups and anaesthetized with halothane, isoflurane, sevoflurane or desflurane. EEG was recorded from the left and right somatosensory cortices for 5 min at three different multiples of minimal alveolar concentration (MAC) (1.25, 1.5 and 1.75). Median, 95% spectral edge frequency and total power were derived and a single mean value for each was calculated for the first 60 s of each recording period. When the raw EEG contained burst suppression (BS), the BS ratio (BSR) over 60 s was calculated. No BS was found in EEG recorded from the halothane group at any concentration. BS was present at all concentrations with the other anaesthetic agents. BS was almost complete at all concentrations of isoflurane, whereas BSR increased significantly with increasing concentrations of sevoflurane and desflurane. No significant differences were found between the BSR due to the 1.75 MAC multiple of isoflurane, sevoflurane or desflurane. Halothane causes significantly less depression of cortical activity than the newer inhalant agents at equivalent multiples of MAC. These data support the hypothesis that halothane has a fundamentally different mechanism of action than the other inhalant agents.

Detection and assessment of stroke in patients with sickle cell disease: neuropsychological functioning and magnetic resonance imaging

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is associated with increased risk of stroke and cognitive impairment. This study describes a retrospective review of 65 patients who underwent routine neuropsychological testing and MRI during treatment at a comprehensive sickle cell center. It was hypothesized that (1) children with no evidence of CVA would perform lower than expected on cognitive tasks compared to population-based normative data, (2) children with strokes and children with silent infarcts would perform lower on cognitive tasks and motor skills as compared to patients with no evidence of CVA, and (3) children with evidence of silent infarcts would perform better than children with known overt strokes. This final hypothesis has not been studied previously, as children with known overt stroke and silent infarct were grouped together. Sixty-five children with SCD who were sent for routine neuropsychological testing and brain MRI were identified via retrospective chart review. Patients had been administered neuropsychological tests to assess cognitive, executive and motor function. Brain MRI was obtained from each patient and was analyzed for evidence of cerebrovascular accident (CVA). Based on MRI analysis, 27% of patients with SCD had experienced a stroke and 13% a silent infarct. The majority (59%) of patients diagnosed with stroke or infarct sustained cortical damage to the frontal lobe. Patients with SCD and no evidence of CVA functioned normally on tests of cognitive ability and achievement, but patients with CVA displayed impairments in cognitive function and comparatively lower scores on verbal and performance scales. Neuropsychological testing can identify impairments in patients with SCD with no known cerebrovascular accident. Investigations of neurocognitive functioning will help characterize patterns of deficits and can inform the ability to implement comprehensive care strategies for patients with SCD and cognitive impairment.

Synergistic depression of NMDA receptor-mediated transmission by ketamine, ketoprofen and L-NAME combinations in neonatal rat spinal cords in vitro

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Spinal N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor/cyclooxygenase (COX) and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) pathways play a major role in nociceptive processing, and influencing them simultaneously may induce synergistic analgesia. This study determined the spinal antinociceptive interactions between ketamine (NMDA receptor channel blocker), ketoprofen (COX inhibitor) and L-NAME (NOS inhibitor) combinations.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Using an in vitro neonatal rat spinal cord preparation, two A-fibre-mediated reflexes, the monosynaptic reflex (MSR) and the low-intensity excitatory postsynaptic potential (epsp), and one C-fibre-mediated reflex, the high-intensity epsp, were evoked electrically. The effect of drugs and drug combinations on these reflexes was assessed and the type of interaction determined by isobolographic analysis.

KEY RESULTS

Infusion of ketamine alone decreased all three reflexes. That of ketoprofen decreased both the low and the high-intensity epsp only. Infusion of L-NAME alone produced no significant effects. Co-infusion of fixed ratios of IC(40) fractions of both (ketamine+ketoprofen) and (ketamine+L-NAME) were synergistic for depressing the low and the high-intensity epsps. The interaction was sub-additive for both combinations on the MSR. The only significant effect for the (ketoprofen+L-NAME) combination was synergism on the high-intensity epsp.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

All three combinations synergistically depressed nociceptive spinal transmission, and both ketamine and ketoprofen and ketamine and L-NAME combinations did so with potentially decreased motor side effects. If such combination profiles also occur in vivo, the present findings raise the possibility of ultimate therapeutic exploitation of increased analgesia with fewer side effects.

Validation of the acute electroencephalographic responses of calves to noxious stimulus with scoop dehorning

AIM

To validate use of the electroencephalogram (EEG) and a minimal anaesthesia model for assessment of noxious sensory input caused by scoop dehorning of calves.

METHODS

Twenty Friesian heifers weighing 125-178 kg were maintained under light general anaesthesia using halothane and an established protocol (minimal anaesthesia model). They were then dehorned using a scoop dehorner either with (DH+LA) or without (DH) a lignocaine ring block, and changes in the EEG and electrocardiogram (ECG) recorded. Median frequency (F50), 95% spectral edge frequency (F95) and total power (Ptot) were derived from the EEG data.

RESULTS

There were significant increases in the F50 (p<0.01) and F95 (p<0.01), and a decrease in Ptot (p<0.01) following dehorning in the DH group, but there were no changes in the DH+LA group. Transient bradycardia in the first 75 sec following dehorning was recorded in the DH group compared with both pre-treatment values in the same group and with the DH+LA group (p<0.001). Tachycardia was evident by 15 min after dehorning in the DH but not the DH+LA group.

CONCLUSIONS

The results validate use of the EEG and a minimal anaesthesia model for assessment of noxious sensory inputs in cattle.

Developmental changes in threshold, conduction velocity, and depressive action of lignocaine on dorsal root potentials from neonatal rats are associated with maturation of myelination

Conduction velocity of primary afferent fibres and blocking actions of local anaesthetics seem to be developmentally regulated. The current work investigated physiological (threshold, conduction velocity, and myelination) and pharmacological (lignocaine (0.0625 to 2 mmol/L) and capsaicin (2 micromol/L)) ontogenic changes on in vitro sciatic nerve-dorsal root preparations from 0- to 12-day-old rats. As rats aged, stimulus intensities necessary to evoke A-fibre thresholds significantly decreased and A-fibre conduction velocities significantly increased. For C-fibres, thresholds significantly increased and conduction velocities significantly varied with age. The blocking potency of lignocaine varied with age: A-fibres from 4-day-old rats and younger were significantly more resistant than those from older rats, and C-fibres were blocked more uniformly amongst ages. Capsaicin significantly depressed C-fibres irrespective of age, and A-fibres were significantly reduced during the first postnatal week only. Myelination significantly increased as rats aged. A-fibre physiological parameters were significantly correlated with both other A-fibre physiological and pharmacological parameters, but C-fibre parameters were not. Peripheral A-fibre transduction mechanisms seem to require time to acquire their full stimulus-response sensitivity, which coincides with development of myelination. In contrast, peripheral C-fibres seem to have mature transduction mechanisms from the first days of postnatal life.

Comparative effect of thermal, mechanical, and electrical noxious stimuli on the electroencephalogram of the rat

BACKGROUND

Thermal, mechanical, and electrical stimuli are often used in acute pain studies and cause qualitatively different pain sensations. Yet, the comparative electroencephalogram (EEG) changes caused by these stimuli have not been studied. We hypothesized that because these stimuli cause different pain sensations, EEG responses would also differ.

METHODS

Anaesthesia was maintained with halothane in 46 male Sprague-Dawley rats. The EEG was recorded from the primary somatosensory cortices and vertex. Supramaximal noxious stimuli were applied to the tail and comprised mechanical (forceps clamp 20 N), thermal (52 degrees C water bath), and electrical (50 V, 50 Hz for 2 s) stimuli. The EEG descriptors median frequency (F50), spectral edge frequency (F95), and total power (P(tot)) recorded before (baseline) and after noxious stimulation were compared. Data were analysed using two-way factorial ANOVA (stimulus, EEG channel) followed by Bonferroni adjusted post-tests (P < 0.05).

RESULTS

F50 increased during electrical stimulation compared with all baseline periods in all EEG channels, increases from baseline ranging from 115.3 (SD 34.8) to 122.1 (39.6)% for the various channels. A significant increase in F50 during thermal stimulation was identified in some EEG channels, whereas no changes in F50 during mechanical stimulation occurred. Changes in F95 during any stimulus compared with baseline were not significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Different noxious stimuli caused differing EEG changes. As the somatosensory cortex contains relatively few exclusively nociceptive neurons, the EEG recorded from this region during the application of predominantly noxious stimuli (mechanical and thermal) may demonstrate minimal cortical activation compared with non-specific electrical noxious stimuli.

Neurophysiological techniques to assess pain in animals

Neurophysiological techniques are widely applied to animals, both in the search as a monitor for adequacy of anaesthesia, and studies to assess the efficacy of analgesic agents. Laboratory animals have been extensively used in models to investigate pain in man. However a substantial number of studies have also used neurophysiological techniques to increase knowledge of pain in specific animal species, with the aim of improving animal welfare. This review provides an overview of neurophysiological techniques involving the brain that have been used in the assessment of pain in animals. An explanation of the methodology of EEG recording, with particular emphasis on veterinary studies, is given. Neurophysiological models developed to assess pain in different species are described, and their relevance to advancements in animal welfare or best clinical practice indicated.

Depression of NMDA-receptor-mediated segmental transmission by ketamine and ketoprofen, but not L-NAME, on the in vitro neonatal rat spinal cord preparation

Activation of spinal N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors and then the nitric oxide and the arachidonic acid pathways is important in pain transmission. This study assessed the effects of the NMDA receptor channel blocker ketamine, the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor L-NAME, and the cyclooxygenase inhibitor ketoprofen in nociceptive transmission using an in vitro neonatal rat spinal cord preparation. Supramaximal electrical stimulation of the dorsal root evoked the A-fibre- and C-fibre-mediated high intensity excitatory postsynaptic potential (EPSP) in the ipsilateral ventral root. Low intensity stimulation evoked the A-fibre-mediated monosynaptic compound action potential (MSR) superimposed on the low intensity EPSP. Both the low intensity EPSP and the high intensity EPSP contain NMDA-receptor-mediated components. Only ketamine and ketoprofen depressed the synaptic responses. Ketamine depressed all three spinal reflexes with IC(50) values (with 95% CI) of 10.80 microM (5.97 to 19.54 microM) for the MSR, 8.29 microM (4.53 to 14.17 microM) for the low intensity EPSP, and 5.35 microM (3.05 to 9.40 microM) for the high intensity EPSP. Ketoprofen depressed the low intensity EPSP and the high intensity EPSP only; IC(50) values (with 95% CI) were 354.5 microM (217.5 to 576.8 microM) and 302.7 microM (174.0 to 526.7 microM), respectively. Reflexes recovered after drug washout. These data demonstrated that ketamine and ketoprofen, but not L-NAME, depressed NMDA-mediated nociceptive transmission in spinal cord preparations from neonatal rats.

Effects of age on the electroencephalographic response to castration in lambs anaesthetised using halothane in oxygen

AIM

To use the electroencephalogram (EEG) to ascertain whether the response of the cerebral cortex to the noxious stimulus of castration varied with age in lambs.

METHODS

Two groups of East Friesian lambs were selected according to age; the mean age of the younger group (n=21) was 12 (SD 2) days and the older group (n=20) was 29 (SD 1) days. Anaesthesia was induced via mask using 4% halothane in oxygen, and maintained using 1.5% halothane in oxygen at a flow rate of 4 L/min. Once a stable plane of anaesthesia had been achieved, data collection of EEG and electrocardiographic (ECG) readings commenced, and the lambs were castrated 15 min later, using rubber rings. Median and 95% spectral edge frequencies (F95) and total EEG power (ptot) were derived from data from the EEG.

RESULTS

Following castration, there was an increase in the median frequency (F50) in the younger lambs (p=0.002), and an increase in ptot in both groups (p=0.05), which was of greater magnitude in the older lambs. There were no significant changes in the F95. Both younger and older lambs exhibited a transient bradycardia (p=0.001 and p=0.01, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

These differences in the cortical response between the two groups suggest that 2-week-old lambs undergo a qualitatively different perception of the noxious stimulus of castration compared to 4-week-old lambs.

Principles and practices of neurodevelopmental assessment in children: lessons learned from the Centers for Children's Environmental Health and Disease Prevention Research

Principles and practices of pediatric neurotoxicology are reviewed here with the purpose of guiding the design and execution of the planned National Children's Study. The developing human central nervous system is the target organ most vulnerable to environmental chemicals. An investigation of the effects of environmental exposures on child development is a complex endeavor that requires consideration of numerous critical factors pertinent to a study's concept, design, and execution. These include the timing of neurodevelopmental assessment, matters of biologic plausibility, site, child and population factors, data quality assurance and control, the selection of appropriate domains and measures of neurobehavior, and data safety and monitoring. Here we summarize instruments for the assessment of the neonate, infant, and child that are being employed in the Centers for Children's Environmental Health and Disease Prevention Research, sponsored by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, discuss neural and neurobiologic measures of development, and consider the promises of gene-environment studies. The vulnerability of the human central nervous system to environmental chemicals has been well established, but the contribution these exposures may make to problems such as attention deficit disorder, conduct problems, pervasive developmental disorder, or autism spectrum disorder remain uncertain. Large-scale studies such as the National Children's Study may provide some important clues. The human neurodevelopmental phenotype will be most clearly represented in models that include environmental chemical exposures, the social milieu, and complex human genetic characteristics that we are just beginning to understand.

Autosomal recessive frontotemporal pachygyria

Pachygyria is a cortical malformation that results from the abnormal migration of neurons. Regions of the brain with pachygyria have an abnormally thick cortex that lacks normal folding and has deficient layering. We describe three siblings, born to nonconsanguineous Mexican parents, who have bilateral frontotemporal pachygyria without polymicrogyria. The pachygyria is accompanied by moderate mental retardation, esotropia, and either hypertelorism or telecanthus. They are otherwise morphologically normal and do not have microcephaly. Two experienced a single seizure in infancy. The characteristic phenotype present in this family suggests a new genetic syndrome that is likely inherited as an autosomal recessive trait.

Effects of midazolam and sarmazenil on the equine electroencephalogram during anaesthesia with halothane in oxygen

The electroencephalographic (EEG) effects of a rapid infusion of midazolam and sarmazenil following a bolus of midazolam were investigated in eight Welsh mountain ponies anaesthetized with 0.8% halothane in oxygen. The peak plasma concentration of midazolam was 2.13 +/- 0.34 ng/mL (mean +/- SD) occurring 5 min after the start of the infusion. Sarmazenil concentrations were not measured. The 95% spectral edge frequency of the EEG decreased by a maximum of 39.8 +/- 15.8%, 10 min after the start of the midazolam infusion. No changes were seen in median frequency of the EEG or the second differential of the middle latency auditory evoked response. The variability of median frequency (F50) and spectral edge frequency (F95) were reduced by a maximum of 80 +/- 7 and 84 +/- 7%, respectively. The sarmazenil infusion reversed the effects of a bolus of midazolam on the variability of F50 and the magnitude and variability of F95. The second differential of the middle latency auditory evoked potential (DD) was increased by 56.4 +/- 69.3%, 10 min after the start of the sarmazenil infusion. There were no statistically significant differences in EEG variables between the baseline of the midazolam infusion and 10 min after the start of the sarmazenil infusion. Midazolam infusion resulted in specific and unusual changes in the EEG of anaesthetized ponies. These changes were completely reversed by sarmazenil infusion. The data presented suggest that sarmazenil has no intrinsic effect upon the EEG.

Comparison of detomidine and romifidine as premedicants before ketamine and halothane anesthesia in horses undergoing elective surgery

OBJECTIVE

To compare detomidine hydrochloride and romifidine as premedicants in horses undergoing elective surgery.

ANIMALS

100 client-owned horses.

PROCEDURE

After administration of acepromazine (0.03 mg/kg, IV), 50 horses received detomidine hydrochloride (0.02 mg/kg of body weight, IV) and 50 received romifidine (0.1 mg/kg, IV) before induction and maintenance of anesthesia with ketamine hydrochloride (2 mg/kg) and halothane, respectively. Arterial blood pressure and blood gases, ECG, and heart and respiratory rates were recorded. Induction and recovery were timed and graded.

RESULTS

Mean (+/- SD) duration of anesthesia for all horses was 104 +/- 28 minutes. Significant differences in induction and recovery times or grades were not detected between groups. Mean arterial blood pressure (MABP) decreased in both groups 30 minutes after induction, compared with values at 10 minutes. From 40 to 70 minutes after induction, MABP was significantly higher in detomidine-treated horses, compared with romifidine-treated horses, although more romifidine-treated horses received dobutamine infusions. In all horses, mean respiratory rate ranged from 9 to 11 breaths/min, PaO2 from 200 to 300 mm Hg, PaCO2 from 59 to 67 mm Hg, arterial pH from 7.33 to 7.29, and heart rate from 30 to 33 beats/min, with no significant differences between groups.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Detomidine and romifidine were both satisfactory premedicants. Romifidine led to more severe hypotension than detomidine, despite administration of dobutamine to more romifidine-treated horses. Both detomidine and romifidine are acceptable alpha2-adrenoceptor agonists for use as premedicants before general anesthesia in horses; however, detomidine may be preferable when maintenance of blood pressure is particularly important.

Predicting physical and chemical water properties from relationships with watershed soil characteristics

The Surface Waters component of the Environmental Monitoring and Assessment Program (EMAPSW) was developed by the USEPA to evaluate the extent and condition of lakes and streams over national and regional scales. Realistically, chemical or physical water properties (WPs) such as acidity or turbidity can be field-sampled for only a small portion of all lakes and streams. However, soil characteristics (SCs) affect WPs and broad-scale soil survey data have become available in the State Soil Geographic Data Base (STATSGO). We developed models relating observed WPs to SCs to extrapolate the sampled WPs to a region, potentially reducing extensive monitoring needs. Our study region consisted of 13 northeastern and Mid-Atlantic states and contained 882 STATSGO soil map units. We used map units as the spatial component of WP analysis. The WPs were sampled in 721 randomly selected EMAPSW study sites. The watersheds of these sites represent 7.1% of the region's total area and spatially intersect 400 of its soil map units. Each intersected map unit was assigned the weighted average WPs from the corresponding watersheds. Conditional expectation models were used to extrapolate sampled WPs to 882 map units. The relative standard errors ranged from low for pH (0.8%), intermediate for total P (12.1%), and very high for chloride (54.8%). The high extrapolation errors indicate outlier conditions from natural, non-soil, or anthropogenic sources.

Spatial extrapolation of soil characteristics using whole-soil particle size distributions

Soils support ecosystem functions such as plant growth and water quality because of certain physical, chemical, and biological properties. These properties have been studied at different spatial scales, including point scales to satisfy basic research needs, and regional scales to satisfy monitoring needs. Recently, soil property data for the entire USA have become available in the State Soil Geographic Data Base (STATSGO), which is appropriate for regional-scale research. We analyzed and created models of STATSGO data in this study to serve as a research tool, for example, for linking the soil to regional water quality monitoring data in our companion paper. Map units in STATSGO define geographic land areas by soil characteristics (SCs) of similar soil series. We selected 27 SCs that influenced water properties (in varying degrees), aggregated the layer and component SCs to map unit SCs, and used SCs to calculate relationships among map units. The relationships were defined by equations of conditional mean for the qth SC (SCq), while using the remaining 26 SCs as predictors. The relative standard errors for 22 of the 27 SCs were less than 10%, and less than 22% for the remaining five. We conclude that spatial extrapolation of SCs is feasible and the procedures are a first step toward extrapolating information across a region using SC-water property relationships. Although our procedure is for regional scale monitoring, it is also applicable to finer spatial scales commensurate with available soil data.

Multidrug resistance-1 gene expression does not increase during tumor progression in the MGH-OGS murine osteosarcoma tumor model

In addition to its possible role in drug resistance, expression of the multidrug resistance-1 gene may also be associated with a more malignant phenotype and tumor progression. This study evaluated its expression during tumor progression in the MGH-OGS transplantable murine osteosarcoma tumor model. Three variables of tumor progression were analyzed: tumor size, local recurrence, and metastasis. With a highly sensitive reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction method, mRNA levels of multidrug resistance-1 were compared in primary tumors of different sizes. In addition, the levels were compared in primary, locally recurrent, and metastatic tumors isolated from individual mice. No significant difference was found in the levels of expression with increasing primary tumor size. In addition, the levels in primary, locally recurrent, and metastatic tumors were not significantly different. Our results indicate that--at least in the MGH-OGS tumor model, which is analogous to the majority of spontaneously occurring human osteosarcomas in that it has low levels of multidrug resistance-1/P-glycoprotein and is sensitive to doxorubicin--there is no evidence of upregulation of multidrug resistance-1 expression during tumor progression.

Effects of ketamine on the equine electroencephalogram during anesthesia with halothane in oxygen

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of ketamine on the electroencephalogram (EEG) of the horse.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective experimental study.

ANIMALS

Eight Welsh mountain pony geldings weighing between 280 and 330 kg, 5 to 9 years old.

METHODS

During halothane anesthesia at an end-tidal halothane concentration between 0.75 and 0.85%, the EEG frequency power spectrum and the auditory evoked potential were recorded while an infusion of ketamine was given. Ketamine 200 mg was infused over 5 minutes in 8 ponies. The effects of ketamine on the EEG were recorded continuously during the infusion and for a further 55 minutes.

RESULTS

The ketamine infusion produced a plasma ketamine concentration that was significantly greater than the baseline until 7 minutes after the start of the infusion. The highest recorded ketamine concentration was 4.2+/-1.1 microg/ml recorded at 5 minutes after the start of the infusion. The spectral edge and median frequency of the EEG and the midlatency of the auditory evoked potential were compared with those recorded before the start of the infusion. The spectral edge, median frequencies and mid-latency of the auditory evoked potential were reduced by 21+/-13%, 31+/-20% and 19+/-36% respectively (mean +/- SD). Only the reduction in spectral edge frequency reached statistical significance.

CONCLUSIONS

These results compared with those from other anesthetic and sedative agents suggest that the spectral edge frequency is an indicator of general central nervous system depression whereas the median frequency may be an indicator of antinociception.

Barriers to accessing hospice services before a late terminal stage

Although hospice care has been available in the United States for over 25 years, the trend of late terminal access persists. Quality assessments and interventions that will continue through a year of bereavement are based on early interactions and the formation of caring and trusting bonds. A qualitative research study was conducted to identify and describe barriers to timely access as perceived by those involved in hospice care: caregivers, hospice staff and volunteers, and referring physicians. Major findings include persistent knowledge deficits including misconceptions and lack of awareness of components and skill associated with hospice care: reluctance to disclose, discuss, or acknowledge patient terminality, and access of hospice care being perceived as giving up on the patient.

Comparison of the effects of halothane, isoflurane and methoxyflurane on the electroencephalogram of the horse

We have investigated in eight ponies the effects of three different end-tidal concentrations of halothane, isoflurane and methoxyflurane on median (F50) and 95% spectral edge (F95) frequencies of the EEG and the second differential (DD) of the middle latency auditory evoked potential (MLAEP). The three concentrations of each agent were chosen to represent approximately the minimum alveolar concentration (MAC), 1.25 MAC and 1.5 MAC for each agent. During halothane anaesthesia, F95 decreased progressively as halothane concentration increased, from mean 13.9 (SD 2.6) at 0.8% to 11.9 (1.1) at 1.2%. DD was lower during anaesthesia with the highest concentration (21 (6.5)) compared with the lowest (27.6 (11.4)). There were no significant changes in F50. During isoflurane anaesthesia, there was a small, but significant increase in F95 between the intermediate and highest concentrations (10.2 (1.5) to 10.8 (1.6)). There were no changes in F50 and DD. Values of F95, F50 and DD at all isoflurane concentrations were similar to those of halothane at the highest concentration. During methoxyflurane anaesthesia, F95 and F50 decreased progressively as methoxyflurane concentration was increased, from 21.3 (0.7) and 6.5 (1), respectively, at 0.26%, to 20.1 (0.6) and 5.6 (0.8), respectively, at 0.39%. DD was lower during anaesthesia with the highest concentration of methoxyflurane (25.7 (7.8)) compared with the lowest (39.7 (20.6)). Values of F95, F50 and DD at all methoxyflurane concentrations were higher than those seen with halothane at the lowest concentration. The different relative positions of the dose-response curves for EEG and MLAEP changes compared with antinociception (MAC) changes suggest differences in the mechanisms of action of these three agents. These differences may explain the incomplete adherence to the Meyer-Overton rule.

Hospice: what gets in the way of appropriate and timely access

Although hospice is viewed as highly effective in managing a good death, this service remains on the fringe of traditional medical care and is underutilized in the United States today. The same reimbursement criteria that facilitate access to hospice care for many also create barriers for others or exclude them altogether. The article examines who is and who is not receiving hospice care and why. Interventions and corrective actions are proposed.