scholarly journals Clinical characteristics of lameness and potential risk factors in intensive and semi-intensive dairy sheep flocks in Greece

2017 ◽  
Vol 64 (2) ◽  
pp. 123 ◽  
Author(s):  
A. I. GELASAKIS (Α.Ι. ΓΕΛΑΣΑΚΗΣ) ◽  
G. OIKONOMOU (Γ. ΟΙΚΟΝΟΜΟΥ) ◽  
R. C. BICALHO ◽  
G. E. VALERGAKIS (Γ.Ε. ΒΑΛΕΡΓΑΚΗΣ) ◽  
G. S. FTHENAKIS (Γ.Χ. ΦΘΕΝΑΚΗΣ) ◽  
...  

Objectives of the study were to present descriptive epidemiological characteristics of lameness in intensively and semi-intensively reared flocks of Chios-breed dairy sheep in Greece, as well as to identify potential factors that may affect development, severity and duration of the disorder. In total, 1618 ewes in nine flocks were used for assessment of locomotion score and detailed clinical examination, which were performed fortnightly throughout a milking period. Subsequently, two logistic regression models were employed to assess impact of various variables on occurrence and severity of lameness. Mean lameness incidence in the nine flocks under surveillance during the milking period was 6.8% (110 cases in 1618 ewes); between flocks range of the incidence was 0.4%-22.0%. In 48% of the cases, lameness was considered to  be severe. Foot-rot was found to be the commonest lameness-causing disorder, accounting for 66% of all cases. During the investigation, incidence of lameness in relation to the causing factor was 4.5% for foot-rot, 1% for white line abscesses, 1% for white line disease, <0.5% for pedal joint abscesses and <0.5% for hoof injuries. Farm size, stocking density, parity of the ewes and lambing season were identified as significant risk factors for dairy sheep lameness occurrence. Finally, stocking density was also found to affect lameness severity.

2019 ◽  
Vol 22 (8) ◽  
pp. 736-743
Author(s):  
Stephanie Ferguson ◽  
Ken C Smith ◽  
Claire E Welsh ◽  
Melanie J Dobromylskyj

Objectives The main objective of this study was to utilise a large database from a UK-based, commercial veterinary diagnostic laboratory to ascertain the prevalence of different forms of nasal disease within the feline population. Further objectives included using this database to detect any breed, sex or age predilections, or associations between the degree of brachycephalism, and the different conditions diagnosed. Methods Records from the laboratory were searched for feline submissions received between 31 May 2006 and 31 October 2013. For all samples taken from the nasal cavity, the diagnosis was recorded together with the breed, age, sex and neuter status of the cat, whether the clinical presentation was uni- or bilateral and whether a nasal discharge was present. Pedigree breeds were further subclassified according to skull conformation into brachycephalic, mesocephalic and dolichocephalic. Logistic regression models were constructed to assess the adjusted magnitude of association of significant risk factors with each disease, and each disease was also used as a potential independent risk factor for each other disease. Results The most prevalent nasal disease was rhinitis, followed by neoplasia and polyps. The most commonly diagnosed neoplasm was lymphoma, followed by adenocarcinoma and undifferentiated carcinoma, with benign tumours being very uncommon. No significant association was found between skull conformation and nasal diseases. The only statistically significant association was polyps being more likely to arise in younger male cats, with a mesocephalic skull conformation and no nasal discharge. Conclusions and relevance No significant association was found between skull conformation and nasal diseases, contrary to what might be expected. The only significant association found between any of the potential risk factors and various forms of nasal disease was polyps being more likely to arise in younger cats; other identified associations are only likely to be weak.


2020 ◽  
Vol 41 (1) ◽  
pp. 59-71 ◽  
Author(s):  
Torsten Schlosshauer ◽  
Marcus Kiehlmann ◽  
Diana Jung ◽  
Robert Sader ◽  
Ulrich M Rieger

Abstract Background Post-bariatric patients present a surgical challenge within abdominoplasty because of residual obesity and major comorbidities. In this study, we analyzed complications following abdominoplasty in post-bariatric patients and evaluated potential risk factors associated with these complications. Objectives The authors sought to determine the complications and risk factors following abdominoplasty in post-bariatric patients. Methods A retrospective study of patients who underwent abdominoplasty was performed from January 2009 to December 2018 at our institution. Variables analyzed were sex, age, body mass index (BMI), smoking, surgical technique, operative time, resection weight, drain output, and complications. Results A total of 406 patients were included in this study (320 female and 86 male) with a mean age of 44.4 years and a BMI of 30.6 kg/m2. Abdominoplasty techniques consisted of traditional (64.3%), fleur-de-lis technique (27.3%), and panniculectomy without umbilical displacement (8.4%). Overall complications recorded were 41.9%, the majority of these being wound-healing problems (32%). Minor and major complications were found in 29.1% and 12.8% of patients, respectively. A BMI value of ≥30 kg/m2 was associated with an increased risk for wound-healing problems (P = 0.001). The frequency of total complications was significantly related to age (P = 0.007), BMI (P = 0.004), and resection weight (P = 0.001). Abdominoplasty technique tended to influence total complications. Conclusions This study demonstrates in a fairly large sample of post-bariatric patients (n = 406) that abdominoplasty alone can be performed safely, with an acceptable complication rate. Age, BMI, and resection weight are shown to be significant risk factors for total complications. The role of surgical technique needs to be evaluated further. Level of Evidence: 4


2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Leonardo Uchiumi ◽  
Guillermo Mujica ◽  
Daniel Araya ◽  
Juan Carlos Salvitti ◽  
Mariano Sobrino ◽  
...  

Abstract Background: Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a parasitic zoonosis caused by infection with the larval stage of Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato This study investigated the prevalence and potential risk factors associated with human CE in the towns and rural areas of Ñorquinco and Ramos Mexia, Rio Negro province, Argentina. Methods: In order to detect abdominal CE cysts, we screened 892 volunteers by ultrasound and investigated potential risk factors for CE using a standardized questionnaire. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were used to estimate the Prevalence Ratio (PR) and their 95% CIs of the association between CE and the factors investigated. Results: Abdominal CE was detected in 42/892 screened volunteers (4.7%, CI 3.2-6.1), only two of who being under 15 years of age. Thirteen CE (30.9%) cases had 25 cysts in active stages (CE1, CE2, CE3) The most relevant risk factors identified in the bivariate analysis included: live in rural area (p=0.003), age >40 years (p=0.000), drinking always water of natural source (p=0.007), residing in rural areas during first five years of life (p=0.000) and live more than 20 years at your current address (p=0.013). In the multivariate model, statistically significant risk factors were: frequently touch dogs (p=0.012), residing in rural areas during first five years of life (p=0.004), smoking (p=0.000), age > 60 years (p­­=0.002) and live in rural areas (p=0.017).Conclusions: our results point toward infection with CE being acquired since childhood and with constant exposure throughout life, especially in rural areas with a general environmental contamination


2013 ◽  
Vol 142 (6) ◽  
pp. 1231-1244 ◽  
Author(s):  
M. M. A. De LANGE ◽  
B. SCHIMMER ◽  
P. VELLEMA ◽  
J. L. A. HAUTVAST ◽  
P. M. SCHNEEBERGER ◽  
...  

SUMMARYIn this study, Coxiella burnetii seroprevalence was assessed for dairy and non-dairy sheep farm residents in The Netherlands for 2009–2010. Risk factors for seropositivity were identified for non-dairy sheep farm residents. Participants completed farm-based and individual questionnaires. In addition, participants were tested for IgG and IgM C. burnetii antibodies using immunofluorescent assay. Risk factors were identified by univariate, multivariate logistic regression, and multivariate multilevel analyses. In dairy and non-dairy sheep farm residents, seroprevalence was 66·7% and 51·3%, respectively. Significant risk factors were cattle contact, high goat density near the farm, sheep supplied from two provinces, high frequency of refreshing stable bedding, farm started before 1990 and presence of the Blessumer breed. Most risk factors indicate current or past goat and cattle exposure, with limited factors involving sheep. Subtyping human, cattle, goat, and sheep C. burnetii strains might elucidate their role in the infection risk of sheep farm residents.


2018 ◽  
Vol 41 (5) ◽  
pp. 447-453 ◽  
Author(s):  
Frédéric Rafflenbeul ◽  
Catherine-Isabelle Gros ◽  
François Lefebvre ◽  
Sophie Bahi-Gross ◽  
Raphaëlle Maizeray ◽  
...  

Summary Objectives The aim of this retrospective study was to assess in maxillary canine impaction cases both the prevalence of root resorption of adjacent teeth among untreated children and adolescents, and its associated risk factors. Subjects and methods Sixty subjects (mean age 12.2 years; SD 1.9; range 8–17 years) with 83 displaced maxillary canines and without any past or ongoing orthodontic treatment were included in this study. The presence of root resorption was evaluated on images from a single cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) unit. Potential risk factors were measured on the CBCT images and on panoramic reconstructions of the 3D data sets. The sample was characterized by descriptive statistics and multiple logistic regressions were performed to predict root resorption. Results Root resorption of at least one adjacent tooth was detected in 67.5 per cent of the affected quadrants. It was found that 55.7 per cent of the lateral incisors, 8.4 per cent of the central incisors, and 19.5 per cent of first premolars were resorbed. Of the detected resorptions, 71.7 per cent were considered slight, 14.9 per cent moderate, and 13.4 per cent severe. Contact between the displaced canine(s) and the adjacent teeth roots was the only identified statistically significant risk factor, all teeth being considered (odds ratio [OR] = 18.7, 95% confidence interval: 2.26–756, P < 0.01). An enlarged canine dental follicle, a peg upper lateral, or an upper lateral agenesis were not significantly associated with root resorption of adjacent teeth, nor were age nor gender. Conclusions Root resorption of adjacent teeth was detected in more than two-thirds of a sample of sixty untreated children and adolescents.


2009 ◽  
Vol 67 (2a) ◽  
pp. 229-234 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kátia Regina Penha da Silva ◽  
Regina Maria Papais Alvarenga ◽  
Oscar Fernandez y Fernandez ◽  
Hélcio Alvarenga ◽  
Luiz Claudio Santos Thuler

PURPOSE: To evaluate potential risk factors for the development of multiple sclerosis in Brazilian patients. METHOD: A case control study was carried out in 81 patients enrolled at the Department of Neurology of the Hospital da Lagoa in Rio de Janeiro, and 81 paired controls. A standardized questionnaire on demographic, social and cultural variables, and medical and family history was used. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive statistics and conditional logistic regression models with the SPSS for Windows software program. RESULTS: Having standard vaccinations (vaccinations specified by the Brazilian government) (OR=16.2; 95% CI=2.3-115.2), smoking (OR=7.6; 95% CI=2.1-28.2), being single (OR=4.7; 95% CI=1.4-15.6) and eating animal brain (OR=3.4; 95% CI=1.2-9.8) increased the risk of developing MS. CONCLUSIONS: RESULTS of this study may contribute towards better awareness of the epidemiological characteristics of Brazilian patients with multiple sclerosis.


2018 ◽  
Vol 8 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Mohammad Q. Al-Natour ◽  
Akram R. Al-Aboudi ◽  
Musa A. Alshehabat ◽  
MT K. Tamimi

Campylobacter jejuni is an important food-borne pathogen. The main source of this pathogen is poultry and poultry products. Poultry farms of low biosecurity level plays major role in disseminating this pathogen. The objectives of this study were to investigate the occurrence of Campylobacter and identify potential risk factors associated with their presence in layer farms in Northern Jordan. A total of 2524 samples from chickens, litter, water and feed were collected from 35-layer farms. Samples underwent conventional and enrichment isolation methods for Campylobacter. Confirmation was done morphologically, biochemically and by PCR typing. The flock-level prevalence of C. jejuni was 40%, 37%, 20% in chicken cloacae, drinking water and litter respectively. C. jejuni was the only confirmed isolated species. None of the feed samples revealed presence of Campylobacter. The concentration of free residual chlorine was below the recommended standard levels. The risk factors were identified using modified semi-structured questionnaire. There was no significant association between evaluated risk factors and isolation status potentially reflecting small number of study farms. The prevalence rate for C. jejuni is within commonly reported range. High stocking density, short distance between farms, improper hygienic practice and low water chlorine level seems to increase occurrence rate of Campylobacter in layer farms. Educational biosecurity programs regarding C. jejuni transmission and their public health importance needs to be established.


Author(s):  
Susan A. Shaheen ◽  
Caroline J. Rodier ◽  
Amanda M. Eaken

To evaluate the potential for low-speed modes to improve transit access, the EasyConnect field test will offer shared-use Segway Human Transporters (HT), electric bicycles, and bicycles linked to a Bay Area Rapid Transit District station and surrounding employment centers in California. Because of safety concerns, research was conducted to understand the risks associated with these modes and potential risk factors. A review of the safety literature indicates that user error is the major cause of low-speed mode crashes, and significant risk factors are poor surface conditions and obstructions to drivers’ vision. As a result, an extensive training program and carefully selected routes have been included in the field test. The regulatory and legislative history of the HT is chronicled to understand how concerns about its interaction with pedestrians have produced legislation that includes specific safety requirements. The low-speed modes used in this project will be equipped with safety devices, and participants will be required to wear helmets. The survey results of 13 HT implementation projects provide insight into potential advantages and challenges to the field test. Results of interviews and meetings with field test stakeholders are presented with a discussion of their influence on the field test design. Finally, conclusions and future project steps are discussed.


2016 ◽  
Vol 56 (4) ◽  
pp. 226
Author(s):  
Yuni Purwanti ◽  
Sutaryo Sutaryo ◽  
Sri Mulatsih ◽  
Pungky Ardani Kusuma

Background Wilms tumor is the most common renal malignancy in children (95%) and one of the leading causes of death in children, with high mortality rates in developing countries. Identifying risk factors for mortality is important in order to provide early intervention to improve cure rates.Objective To identify risk factors for mortality in children with Wilms tumor.Methods We performed a case-control study of children (0-18 years of age) with Wilms tumor admitted to Dr. Sardjito Hospital between 2005 and 2012. The case group consisted of children who died of Wilms tumor, whereas the control group were children who survived. Data were collected from medical records. Statistical analyses using Chi-square and logistic regression tests were done to determine odds ratios and 95% CI of the potential risk factors for mortality from Wilms tumor.Results Thirty-five children with Wilms tumor were admitted to Dr. Sardjito Hospital during the study period. Nine (26%) children died and 26 survived. Stage ≥III was a significant risk factor for mortality in chidren with Wilms tumor (OR 62.8; 95%CI 5.6 to 70.5). Age ≥2 years (OR 1.4; 95%CI 0.1 to 14.3) and male sex (OR 1.2; 95%CI 0.1 to 10.8) were not significant risk factors for mortality.Conclusion Stage ≥III is a risk factor for mortality in children with Wilms tumor. 


2019 ◽  
Vol 147 ◽  
Author(s):  
A. F. A. Pires ◽  
L. Patterson ◽  
E. A. Kukielka ◽  
P. Aminabadi ◽  
N. Navarro-Gonzalez ◽  
...  

Abstract Diversified farms are operations that raise a variety of crops and/or multiple species of livestock, with the goal of utilising the products of one for the growth of the other, thus fostering a sustainable cycle. This type of farming reflects consumers' increasing demand for sustainably produced, naturally raised or pasture-raised animal products that are commonly produced on diversified farms. The specific objectives of this study were to characterise diversified small-scale farms (DSSF) in California, estimate the prevalence of Salmonella enterica and Campylobacter spp. in livestock and poultry, and evaluate the association between farm- and sample-level risk factors and the prevalence of Campylobacter spp. on DSSF in California using a multilevel logistic model. Most participating farms were organic and raised more than one animal species. Overall Salmonella prevalence was 1.19% (95% confidence interval (CI95) 0.6–2), and overall Campylobacter spp. prevalence was 10.8% (CI95 = 9–12.9). Significant risk factors associated with Campylobacter spp. were farm size (odds ratio (OR)10–50 acres: less than 10 acres = 6, CI95 = 2.11–29.8), ownership of swine (OR = 9.3, CI95 = 3.4–38.8) and season (ORSpring: Coastal summer = 3.5, CI95 = 1.1–10.9; ORWinter: Coastal summer = 3.23, CI95 = 1.4–7.4). As the number of DSSF continues to grow, evaluating risk factors and management practices that are unique to these operations will help identify risk mitigation strategies and develop outreach materials to improve the food safety of animal and vegetable products produced on DSSF.


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