bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accuracy and Optimization of Force Platform Gait Analysis in Labradors with Cranial Cruciate Disease Evaluated at a Walking Gait
Authors: Evans Richard , Horstman Chris , Conzemius Mike
Published: October 2005

Objective—To determine the combination of ground reaction forces (GRFs) that best discriminates between lame and non‐lame dogs. To compare the sensitivity of force platform gait analysis and visual observation at detecting gait abnormalities in Labradors after surgery for rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL).

Animals—All dogs were adult Labrador Retrievers: 17 free of orthopedic and neurologic abnormalities, 100 with unilateral CCL rupture, and 131 studied 6 months after surgery for unilateral CCL injury, 15 with observable lameness.

Procedure—Dogs were walked over a force platform with GRF recorded during the stance phase. Analytic properties of force platform gait analysis were calculated for several combinations of forces. The probability of visual observation detecting a gait abnormality was compared with that of force platform gait analysis.

Results—We determined that a combination of peak vertical force (PVF) and falling slope were optimal for discriminating sound and lame Labradors. After surgery, many dogs (75%) with no observable lameness failed to achieve GRFs consistent with sound Labradors.

Conclusion—A force platform is an accurate method of assessing lameness in Labradors with CCL rupture and is more sensitive than visual observation. Assessing lameness with a combination of GRFs is better than using univariate GRFs.

Clinical Relevance—Therapies for stifle lameness can be accurately and objectively evaluated using 2 vertical ground reaction forces obtained from a force platform.
Force Plate Analysis Before and After Dorsal Decompression for Treatment of Degenerative Lumbosacral Stenosis in Dogs
Authors: Van Klaveren Nicolien J. , Suwankong Niyada , De Boer Sanneke , Van Den Brom Walter E. , Voorhout George , Hazewinkel Herman A.W. , Meij Björn P.
Published: October 2005

Objective–Using force plate analysis (FPA), determine ground reaction forces in dogs with degenerative lumbosacral stenosis (DLS) and evaluate the effects of lumbosacral decompressive surgery.

Study Design–Prospective clinical study.

Animals–Twelve dogs with DLS.

Methods–DLS was diagnosed by clinical signs, radiography, computed tomography, and/or magnetic resonance imaging. FPA was performed before surgery, and 3 days, 6 weeks, and 6 months after surgery. The mean peak braking (Fy+), peak propulsive (Fy−), and peak vertical (Fz+) forces of 8 consecutive strides were determined. The ratio between the total Fy−of the pelvic limbs and the total Fy−of the thoracic limbs (P/TFy−), reflecting the distribution of Fy−, was analyzed to evaluate any changes in locomotion pattern postoperatively. Ground reaction force data for DLS dogs were compared with data derived from 24 healthy dogs (control).

Results–In dogs with DLS, the propulsive forces (Fy−) of the pelvic limbs were significantly smaller than those of controls. P/TFy−was significantly smaller in dogs with DLS than in control dogs, and increased during the follow‐up period, reaching normal values 6 months after surgery.

Conclusions–Cauda equina compression in dogs with DLS decreases the propulsive force of the pelvic limbs and surgical treatment restores the propulsive force of the pelvic limbs in a 6‐month period.

Clinical Relevance–In dogs with DLS, FPA is an effective method in evaluating the response to surgical treatment. Normal propulsive force in the pelvic limbs was restored during 6 months after decompressive surgery.
Expression of Relaxin Receptor LRG7, Canine Relaxin, and Relaxin‐Like Factor in the Pelvic Diaphragm Musculature of Dogs with and Without Perineal Hernia
Authors: Merchav Ronit , Feuermann Yonatan , Shamay Avi , Ranen Eyal , Stein Uri , Johnston Dudley E. , Shahar Ron
Published: October 2005

Objectives—To compare the expression of canine relaxin, relaxin‐like factor (RLF), and relaxin receptors within the muscles of the pelvic diaphragm of dogs with perineal hernia (PH) and clinically normal dogs.

Study Design—In vivo comparative study.

Animals—Fifteen client‐owned intact male dogs with PH were studied. Four mature intact male dogs with no evidence of perineal pathology served as controls.

Methods—Biopsy samples from the levator ani, coccygeus, and internal obturator muscles were obtained. RNA samples were reverse transcribed and analyzed by real‐time PCR for the expression of canine relaxin receptor LRG7, relaxin, and RLF.

Results—Significantly higher expression levels of canine relaxin receptors occurred in the musculature of the pelvic diaphragm and internal obturator muscle in dogs with PH compared with normal dogs. Expression of canine RLF revealed no significant difference between dogs with PH and controls. The difference in the expression of canine relaxin between groups was not statistically significant.

Conclusions—Relaxin receptor up‐regulation occurs in the coccygeus, levator ani, and internal obturator muscles of dogs with PH.

Clinical Relevance—The higher expression of relaxin receptors within the muscles of the pelvic diaphragm in dogs with PH suggests that relaxin might play a role in the pathogenesis of PH. Atrophy of these muscles, which predisposes to PH, may be attributable to increased relaxin activity.
Collagenolytic Protease Expression in Cranial Cruciate Ligament and Stifle Synovial Fluid in Dogs with Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture
Authors: Muir Peter , Danova Nichole A. , Argyle David J. , Manley Paul A. , Hao Zhengling
Published: October 2005

Objective—To determine expression of collagenolytic genes and collagen degradation in stifle tissues of dogs with ruptured cranial cruciate ligament (CCL).

Animals—Six dogs with CCL rupture and 11 dogs with intact CCL.

Procedures—Gene expression in CCL tissue and synovial fluid cells was studied using reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). Collagen degradation was studied using CCL explant cultures and a synovial fluid bioassay.

Results—Expression of matrix metalloproteases (MMP) was not found in young Beagles with intact CCL; however, increased expression of MMP‐3 was found in CCL tissue from older hounds with intact CCL, when compared with young Beagles. In dogs with ruptured CCL, expression of MMP‐2 and ‐9 was increased in stifle tissues, when compared with dogs with intact CCL. Similar to MMP‐9, expression of tartrate‐resistant acid phospatase (TRAP) and cathepsin S was only found in stifle tissues from dogs with ruptured CCL; in contrast, expression of cathepsin K was found in all ruptured and intact CCL. Collagen degradation was increased in ruptured CCL, when compared with intact CCL.

Conclusion—Rupture of the CCL is associated with up‐regulation of expression of MMP‐2 and ‐9 (gelatinase A and B), TRAP, and cathepsin S, and increased degradation of collagen.

Clinical Relevance—These findings suggest that MMP‐2, ‐9, cathepsin S, and TRAP may be important mediators of progressive joint destruction in dogs with CCL rupture. These genes are markers for macrophages and dendritic cells. MMP and cathepsin S pathways may offer novel targets for anti‐inflammatory medical therapy aimed at ameliorating joint degradation associated with inflammatory arthritis.
Biomechanical Comparison of Orthofix Pins and Cortical Bone Screws in a Canine Humeral Condylar Fracture Model
Authors: Vida J. T. , Pooya Hooman , Vasseur Philip B. , Garcia Tanya C. , Schulz Kurt , Stover Susan M.
Published: October 2005

Objective—To compare shear stability of simulated humeral lateral condylar fractures reduced with either a self‐compressing pin or cortical bone screw.

Study Design—In vitro biomechanical tests.

Sample Population—Bilateral cadaveric canine humeri (n=18) without evidence of elbow disease.

Methods—Lateral condylar fracture was simulated by standardized osteotomy. Bone fragments were stabilized with a self‐compressing pin or a cortical bone screw (2.7 or 3.5 mm) inserted in lag fashion. Specimens were mounted in a materials testing system and the condylar fragment displaced in a proximal direction until failure. Mechanical testing variables derived from load–deformation curves were compared between stabilization methods using a Student's paired t‐test.

Results—There were no statistically significant differences for mechanical testing variables between pin and screw stabilized specimens at expected walk and trot loads. Three yield points subjectively coincided with yield of the interfragmentary interface (Y1), bone at the implant interface (Y2), and implant deformation (Y3). Displacements at Y1 were 48–156% greater for pin than screw stabilized specimens. Y2 and Y3 loads were higher for screw than pin stabilized specimens, but likely supraphysiologic for dogs convalescing after surgical repair.

Conclusions—A self‐compressing pin or a cortical bone screw inserted in lag fashion both provided adequate strength in applied shear to sustain expected physiologic loads through the repaired canine elbow during postoperative convalescence.

Clinical Relevance—Because self‐compressing pins were easy to implant and mechanical properties were not significantly different than cortical screws at expected physiologic loads, pins should be considered for the repair of traumatic humeral condylar fractures.
Axial Pattern Flap Based on the Lateral Caudal Arteries of the Tail in the Dog: An Experimental Study
Authors: Saifzadeh Siamak , Hobbenaghi Rahim , Noorabadi Mehdi
Published: October 2005

Objective—To determine applicability and size limits of an axial pattern flap based on the lateral caudal arteries in dogs to reconstruct caudodorsal trunk skin defects.

Study Design—Experimental study.

Animals—Ten mature, mixed breed dogs.

Methods—The lateral caudal vessels of the tail were incorporated in the flaps of the treatment group (n=5) and were ligated in the control group (n=5). Flaps were rotated and placed into experimentally created caudodorsal skin defects on the trunk. The length and area of tissue that remained viable in each flap were determined.

Results—Mean (±SD) survival area (222.8±32.9 cm2) and length (25.1±4.5 cm) of vascularized flaps were significantly greater (P<.05) compared with control flaps (94.9±13.4 cm2and 14.61±4.7 cm). Necrosis occurred in all control flaps, resulting in lower percentage flap area (48.8%) and length (47.1%) survival compared with vascularized flaps (78.1%, 77.5%).

Conclusions—Axial pattern flap based on lateral caudal arteries of the tail was successfully elevated and transferred in a single procedure, with 78% survival for closure of large experimentally created caudodorsal trunk defects in dogs.

Clinical Relevance—Large cutaneous defects of the caudodorsal trunk area in dog could be reconstructed with tail axial pattern flap. Limitations in terms of size and changes in animal appearance have to be considered before flap elevation.
Repair of Urethral Defects Using Fascia Lata Autografts in Dogs
Authors: Atalan Gulteki̇n , Ci̇han Mete , Sozmen Mahmut , Ozaydin Isa
Published: October 2005

Objective— To evaluate the feasibility of urethroplasty using a free fascia lata (FL) graft in the dog.

Study Design— In vivo experimental study.

Animals— Mixed‐breed dogs (n=14).

Methods— Half of the circumference of the urethra, ∼1.5 cm long, was excised in 14 male dogs to induce a urethral defect. FL (∼2 cm × 2 cm) harvested from the lateral thigh was sutured to the urethra using a 3‐0 polyglactin 910 continuous pattern. Dogs were monitored daily for bladder distention and had urethral catheters until normal voiding was observed. On day 60, each dog had a positive contrast urethrogram, and then 8 dogs were euthanatized for gross and histologic examination. Six dogs were monitored for urologic problems for 6 months, and a positive contrast urethrogram was repeated.

Results— All dogs recovered successfully; 4 dogs had difficulty voiding for 2–3 days and urine was aspirated from these dogs every 3 hours until signs of painful urination disappeared. On positive contrast urethrograms, urethral anatomy was considered normal except in 4 dogs that had an irregular contour. Gross urethral examination confirmed an absence of ulceration, stricture, diverticula, or fistula formation, and the FL‐lined graft survived in all dogs. No degenerative and reparative responses were observed. On histologic examination of the penile urethra, the lumen was intact, covered with transitional epithelium, and surrounded by corpus spongiosum with cavernous spaces and blood‐filled vessels.

Conclusions— Free FL grafts are incorporated satisfactorily and would appear to be useful for repairing urethral defects.

Clinical Relevance— FL grafts should be considered for repair of urethral defects in dogs.
Cisterna Chyli Ablation with Thoracic Duct Ligation for Chylothorax: Results in Eight Dogs
Authors: Hayashi Kei , Sicard Gretchen , Gellasch Kelly , Frank Joseph D. , Hardie Robert J. , McAnulty Jonathan F.
Published: October 2005

Objective—To report use of combined cisterna chyli ablation (CCA) and thoracic duct ligation (TDL) for treatment of spontaneously occurring chylothorax in dogs.

Study Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—Eight dogs with chylothorax.

Methods—TDL was performed through a right caudal intercostal thoracotomy and CCA through a left flank paracostal approach or ventral median celiotomy. Long‐term outcome (range, 2–48 months; median, 11.5 months) was evaluated by telephone communication with owners.

Results—Seven dogs were free of clinical signs related to chylothorax at last follow‐up (range, 4–48 months; median, 15.5 months). One dog was euthanatized 2 months after surgery because of lack of improvement. No major complications occurred from CCA.

Conclusion—CCA and TDL resolved chylothorax in most dogs (88%).

Clinical Relevance—CCA combined with TDL may improve the outcome of chylothorax in dogs.
Developing Policy in the Face of Scientific Uncertainty: Interpreting 0.3 μT or 0.4 μT Cutpoints from EMF Epidemiologic Studies
Authors: Kheifets Leeka , Sahl Jack D. , Shimkhada Riti , Repacholi Mike H.
Published: October 2005

There has been considerable scientific effort to understand the potential link between exposures to power‐frequency electric and magnetic fields (EMF) and the occurrence of cancer and other diseases. The combination of widespread exposures, established biological effects from acute, high‐level exposures, and the possibility of leukemia in children from low‐level, chronic exposures has made it both necessary and difficult to develop consistent public health policies. In this article we review the basis of both numeric standards and precautionary‐based approaches. While we believe that policies regarding EMF should indeed be precautionary, this does not require or imply adoption of numeric exposure standards. We argue that cutpoints from epidemiologic studies, which are arbitrarily chosen, should not be used as the basis for making exposure limits due to a number of uncertainties. Establishment of arbitrary numeric exposure limits undermines the value of both the science‐based numeric EMF exposure standards for acute exposures and precautionary approaches. The World Health Organization's draft Precautionary Framework provides guidance for establishing appropriate public health policies for power‐frequency EMF.
Benchmark Analysis: Shopping with Proper Confidence
Authors: Piegorsch Walter W. , West R. Webster
Published: October 2005

We discuss the issue of using benchmark doses for quantifying (excess) risk associated with exposure to environmental hazards. The paradigm of low‐dose risk estimation in dose‐response modeling is used as the primary application scenario. Emphasis is placed on making simultaneous inferences on benchmark doses when data are in the form of proportions, although the concepts translate easily to other forms of outcome data.
Why Has Safety Improved at Rail‐Highway Grade Crossings?
Authors: Mok Shannon C. , Savage Ian
Published: October 2005

The number of collisions and fatalities at rail‐highway intersections in the United States has declined significantly over the past 30 years, despite considerable increases in the volume of rail and highway traffic. This article disaggregates the improvement into its constituent causes. Negative binomial regressions are conducted on a pooled data set for 49 states from 1975 to 2001. The analysis concludes that about two‐fifths of the decrease is due to factors such as reduced drunk driving and improved emergency medical response that have improved safety on all parts of the highway network. The installation of gates and/or flashing lights accounts for about a fifth of the reduction. The development in the 1970s and early 1980s of the Operation Lifesaver public education campaign, and the installation of additional lights on locomotives in the mid 1990s, each led to about a seventh of the reduction. Finally, about a tenth is due to closure of crossings resulting from line abandonments or consolidation of little‐used crossings.
Mesothelioma: Risk Apportionment Among Asbestos Exposure Sources
Authors: Price Bertram , Ware Adam
Published: October 2005

The mesothelioma epidemic in the United States, which peaked during the 2000–2004 period, can be traced to high‐level asbestos exposures experienced by males in occupational settings prior to the full recognition of the disease‐causing potential of asbestos and the establishment of enforceable asbestos exposure limits by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in 1971. Many individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma where asbestos has been identified as a contributing cause of the disease have filed claims seeking compensation from asbestos settlement trusts or through the court system. An individual with mesothelioma typically has been exposed to asbestos in more than one setting and from more than one asbestos product. Apportioning risk for mesothelioma among contributing factors is an ongoing problem faced by occupational disease compensation boards, juries, parties responsible for paying damages, and currently by the U.S. Senate in its efforts to formulate a bill establishing an asbestos settlement trust. In this article we address the following question: If an individual with mesothelioma where asbestos has been identified as a contributing cause were to be compensated for his or her disease, how should that compensation be apportioned among those responsible for the asbestos exposures? For the purposes of apportionment, we assume that asbestos is the only cause of mesothelioma and that every asbestos exposure contributes, albeit differentially, to the risk. We use an extension of the mesothelioma risk model initially proposed in the early 1980s to quantify the contribution to risk of each exposure as a percentage of the total risk. The percentage for each specific discrete asbestos exposure depends on the start and end dates, the intensity, and the asbestos fiber type for the exposure. We provide justification for the use of the mesothelioma risk model for apportioning risk and discuss how to assess uncertainty associated with its application.
Competing Failure Risk Analysis Using Evidence Theory
Authors: Helton Jon C. , Oberkampf William L. , Johnson Jay D.
Published: October 2005

Safety systems are important components of high‐consequence systems that are intended to prevent the unintended operation of the system and thus the potentially significant negative consequences that could result from such an operation. This presentation investigates and illustrates formal procedures for assessing the uncertainty in the probability that a safety system will fail to operate as intended in an accident environment. Probability theory and evidence theory are introduced as possible mathematical structures for the representation of the epistemic uncertainty associated with the performance of safety systems, and a representation of this type is illustrated with a hypothetical safety system involving one weak link and one strong link that is exposed to a high temperature fire environment. Topics considered include (1) the nature of diffuse uncertainty information involving a system and its environment, (2) the conversion of diffuse uncertainty information into the mathematical structures associated with probability theory and evidence theory, and (3) the propagation of these uncertainty structures through a model for a safety system to obtain representations in the context of probability theory and evidence theory of the uncertainty in the probability that the safety system will fail to operate as intended. The results suggest that evidence theory provides a potentially valuable representational tool for the display of the implications of significant epistemic uncertainty in inputs to complex analyses.
The Contingent Value of Responsive and Proactive Market Orientations for New Product Program Performance*
Authors: Atuahene‐Gima Kwaku , Slater Stanley F. , Olson Eric M.
Published: October 2005

While the benefits of being market oriented are largely accepted, a group of scholars and managers remain skeptical. Marketing scholars have sought to counter the criticisms leveled against market orientation (MO) by arguing that it has both responsive and proactive dimensions. However, few studies have empirically examined the complexity of the effects of these dimensions on firm performance. Drawing on theories of resource‐based advantage and organizational search behavior, this article advances understanding by arguing that responsive and proactive market orientations have curvilinear effects on product development performance, that their interaction may be positively related to product development performance, and that their effects on new product program performance are moderated differentially by the organizational implementation conditions and marketing function power. Survey results of 175 U.S. firms indicate support for most of the hypotheses. Specifically, whereas responsive MO has a U‐shaped relationship with new product program performance, proactive MO has an inverted U‐shaped relationship with new product program performance. Contrary to the arguments presented here, the interaction of both orientations is negatively related to new product program performance. This study finds that both orientations are needed; however, new product program performance is enhanced when one is at higher level and the other is at lower level. Finally, responsive MO is only positively related to new product program performance under specific conditions such as when strategic consensus among managers is high. On the other hand, the positive effect of proactive MO on new product program performance is further strengthened when learning orientation and marketing power are high. Overall, this study suggests that the effects of responsive and proactive MO on new product program performance are more complex than previously theoretically argued and empirically examined.
Market Orientation and the New Product Paradox
Authors: Baker William E. , Sinkula James M.
Published: October 2005

The extant literature shows that the strength of the market orientation–performance relationship decays as the terminal measure of performance shifts from new product success to profitability to market share. As Day (1999) concluded, a broader nomological inquiry is needed to more fully understand the nature and limits of market orientation's effects. This suggests that a broader nomological inquiry is needed to fully understand the nature and limits of market orientation's effects.

Utilizing a national sample of marketing executives, the present study's purpose is to build a fuller understanding of the effects of market orientation on firm performance. Its structural equations model includes measures of new product success, profitability, and market share.

The research reinforces a strong positive relationship between market orientation and new product success. The expanded nomological network under study, however, implies barriers to market orientation's effectiveness. First, market‐orientation‐inspired increases in the priority firms place on “breakthrough” learning without commensurate increases in the priority placed on “breakthrough” innovation capabilities can boomerang and negatively impact new product success. Second, market‐orientation‐inspired new product development programs that are unable to increase market share can negatively impact profitability. These gatekeepers to the success of market orientation underscore the need for firms to coordinate a strong market orientation with resources and capabilities that increase the effectiveness of the marketing function. Without such coordination, the positive effect of market orientation on new product success may be limited to incremental innovations, and the overall effect of successful new products on profitability may be limited.
The Complementary Roles of Applied and Basic Research: A Knowledge‐Based Perspective*
Authors: Henard David H. , McFadyen M. Ann
Published: October 2005

While a great deal of scholastic effort has gone into discovering the multifaceted relationships between applied research initiatives and subsequent performance, relatively little empirical research addresses the performance impact from firm investments in basic research initiatives. Even less addresses the interactive roles of both types of research. The authors conceptualize and empirically evaluate the interactive relationship between applied and basic research initiatives and firm performance. Applied and basic research projects are knowledge creation activities in a product development domain, and both initiatives enhance the stored knowledge of a firm. Stored knowledge is the fuel that drives the product development engine. Applied research initiatives assimilate and exploit stored knowledge to develop new products. Basic research initiatives contribute to and enhance the stock of knowledge from which the applied initiatives are drawn. This expanded base of stored knowledge has positive ramifications for subsequent applied research initiatives. Results indicate that firms that engage in moderate or higher levels of applied research will see enhanced performance returns from additional investments in basic research. Conversely, firms that engage in relatively lower levels of applied research see no performance enhancement at any level of investment in basic research. Firms that rely on a flow of product innovations to provide a continued income stream must certainly invest in applied research initiatives. However, additional investment in directed basic research initiatives will augment future applied projects and could become the source of sustainable competitive advantage.
Department Status: An Exploratory Investigation of Direct and Indirect Effects on Product Development Performance
Authors: Kahn Kenneth B.
Published: October 2005

To date only a limited number of product development studies have examined the construct of department status. These studies mostly report that departments can reflect different levels of status among themselves during product development activities and that often the marketing department reflects greater status. These studies do not clarify the role that department status may pose for product development performance and product management performance. Some research would suggest that department status has a direct effect on performance, while other research would suggest that department status has an indirect effect on performance. The present study investigates whether the bestowing of department status is important to product development performance and product management performance, and, if so, how?

Based on empirical results from a cross‐industry study involving 668 marketing, manufacturing, and R&D managers, department status is found to have a significant indirect effect on product development and product management performance. Results further show that equal status among the three departments of marketing, manufacturing, and R&D correlates with higher levels of interdepartmental collaboration, which in turn manifests the benefits of higher levels of performance. Interdepartmental collaboration is therefore shown to be a mediating variable between department status and performance.

The empirical results of this study suggest that no one department should dominate the product development effort and/or product management effort. While study data tend to correspond with prior studies in that the marketing department tends to reflect higher status compared to R&D and manufacturing, simply bestowing more status to marketing (or to another department for that matter) does not appear to be a proper course for facilitating interdepartmental collaboration nor for manifesting higher product development performance. Rather, equal status across marketing, manufacturing, and R&D departments appears to represent the proper course of action to establish collaboration between these three departments and subsequently to reap the benefits of higher performance. Given the exploratory nature of this study, subsequent study is warranted. Avenues for future research along with tentative managerial implications are discussed.
Phenological model of pear psylla Cacopsylla pyri
Authors: Schaub L. , Graf B. , Butturini A.
Published: October 2005

A phenological model of first‐ and second‐generation pear psylla, Cacopsylla pyri L. (Homoptera: Psyllidae), was developed. The model included a time‐distributed delay and was based on authors’ observations and literature data of termination of reproductive diapause, oviposition‐period length, and developmental duration of juvenile stages depending on temperature. After calibrating microclimate, the model provided a good simulation of observations from different orchards in Switzerland and Italy over several years. The model or simulated output tables can be used to improve timing of monitoring and control measures.
Importance of host feeding for parasitoids that attack honeydew‐producing hosts
Authors: Burger Joep M.S. , Kormany Aranka , van Lenteren Joop C. , Vet Louise E.M.
Published: October 2005

Insect parasitoids lay their eggs in arthropods. Some parasitoid species not only use their arthropod host for oviposition but also for feeding. Host feeding provides nutrients to the adult female parasitoid. However, in many species, host feeding destroys an opportunity to oviposit. For parasitoids that attack Homoptera, honeydew is a nutrient‐rich alternative that can be directly imbibed from the host anus without injuring the host. A recent study showed that feeding on host‐derived honeydew can be an advantageous alternative in terms of egg quantity and longevity. Here we explore the conditions under which destructive host feeding can provide an advantage over feeding on honeydew. For 5 days, Encarsia formosa Gahan (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae) parasitoids were allowed daily up to 3 h to oviposit until host feeding was attempted. Host feedings were either prevented or allowed and parasitoids had ad libitum access to honeydew between foraging bouts. Even in the presence of honeydew, parasitoids allowed to host feed laid more eggs per hour of foraging per host‐feeding attempt than parasitoids that were prevented from host feeding. The higher egg‐laying rate was not compromised by survival or by change in egg volume over time. In conclusion, host feeding can provide an advantage over feeding on honeydew. This applies most likely under conditions of high host density or low extrinsic mortality of adult parasitoids, when alternative food sources cannot supply enough nutrients to prevent egg limitation. We discuss how to integrate ecological and physiological studies on host‐feeding behavior
Movement of proteins across the digestive system of the tobacco budworm, Heliothis virescens
Authors: Jeffers Laura A. , Thompson Deborah M. , Ben‐Yakir David , Roe R. Michael
Published: October 2005

Bovine serum albumin (BSA) and anti‐BSA polyclonal antibody were used as model polypeptides to examine the movement of foreign proteins across the insect digestive system and their accumulation in hemolymph of fourth stadium tobacco budworms, Heliothis virescens (Fabricius) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). Hydrateable meal pads were developed in these studies as a method for easily introducing compounds into the insect digestive system. When insects were allowed to feed continuously on hydrated meal pads containing 0.8 mg of anti‐BSA per gram diet, the level of antibody found in hemolymph was 2.4 ± 0.1 and 3.4 ± 0.1 µg ml−1 (average  1 SEM) after 8 and 16 h, respectively, as determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbant assay (ELISA). Continuous feeding on hydrated meal pads containing the same concentration of BSA produced hemolymph concentrations of 1.5 ± 0.1 and 1.6 ± 0.1 µg ml−1 hemolymph at 8 and 16 h, respectively. Western blot analyses demonstrated that BSA and anti‐BSA both retained their primary and multimeric structure and that anti‐BSA maintained its antigenic activity in the meal pads and after movement from meal pads into the hemolymph. When 1 µg of anti‐BSA or BSA was injected into the hemocoel of fourth instars, the concentrations decreased with time and 120 min after injection were 20% and 0.6% of the original concentration, respectively. When added at the same concentration to plasma in vitro, the decrease was 81.5% and 57.5%, respectively, at 2 h. The accumulation of native anti‐BSA and BSA protein in insect hemolymph is the result of their rate of movement across the gut and their rate of turnover in hemolymph. Movement of anti‐BSA and BSA across the digestive system was also noted in Helicoverpa zea (Boddie) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), Acheta domesticus (L.) (Orthoptera: Gryllidae), and Gromphadorhina portentosa (Schaum) (Blattaria: Blattellidae). Anti‐BSA and BSA were not detected in the hemolymph of Manduca sexta (L.) (Lepidoptera: Sphingidae) after feeding.
Efficacy and systemic side‐effects of topical 0.5% timolol aqueous solution and 0.1% timolol hydrogel
Authors: Uusitalo Hannu , Niño Juanita , Tahvanainen Kari , Turjanmaa Väinö , Ropo Auli , Tuominen Juhani , Kähönen Mika
Published: October 2005

Purpose:  The objective of this randomized, double‐blind, controlled crossover trial was to compare 0.1% timolol hydrogel formulation eyedrops with 0.5% timolol aqueous solution in terms of systemic effects, hypotensive efficacy and pharmacodynamics.

Methods:  Twenty‐four healthy subjects underwent careful ocular, cardiovascular and pulmonary function evaluation before and after 2 weeks of topical treatment with 0.1% timolol hydrogel or 0.5% aqueous timolol maleate. Intraocular pressure (IOP), heart rate, blood pressure, forced expiratory volume and plasma levels of timolol were measured.

Results:  There was a statistically significant difference in the systemic absorption of timolol between these two ophthalmic timolol solutions. The peak concentration and mean area under the plasma drug concentration−time curve (AUC) were about 10‐fold higher after 0.5% timolol aqueous solution. The mean peak heart rate during exercise was reduced by 19 bpm (SD 6.4 bpm) after 0.5% timolol aqueous solution and by only 4.6 bpm (SD 3.8 bpm) after 0.1% timolol hydrogel (p < 0.0001). There was no difference between the two formulations in efficacy in reducing IOP. No differences between treatments were found in respect of pulmonary function.

Conclusions:  The lower timolol concentration in the hydrogel vehicle and its better bioavailability resulted in reduced systemic absorption and side‐effects without loss of efficacy.
A new animal model of choroidal neovascularization
Authors: Kiilgaard Jens F. , Andersen Mads Varis Nis , Wiencke Anne K. , Scherfig Erik , La Cour Morten , Tezel Tongalp H. , Prause Jan U.
Published: October 2005

Purpose:  The purpose of this study was to evaluate the ability of different methods to induce choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in the domestic pig.

Methods:  A total of 26 Danish landrace pigs was used. A sample of 22 eyes in 12 pigs underwent retinal photocoagulation with a xenon lamp, six eyes in four pigs underwent retinal photocoagulation with a diode laser, and mechanical rupture of Bruch's membrane (BM) was induced in 12 pigs following surgical debridement of the retinal pigment epithelium without damage to the neuroretina.

Results:  All 12 pigs (100%) in the group with mechanical rupture of BM developed CNV. The induced membranes were morphologically similar to CNV membranes in humans. Induced CNV was found in 13 of 22 (54%) xenon lamp‐treated animals and in five of six (83%) diode laser‐treated animals. The CNV in these groups was small and the morphology of the induced lesions was dominated by retinal gliosis and retinal neovascularization, probably due to a marked destruction of the neuroretina.

Conclusions:  Surgical debridement of the retinal pigment epithelium followed by mechanical rupture of BM is a reproducible method of producing CNV in the domestic pig, whereas photocoagulation gives rise to glially derived subretinal fibrovascular membranes and primarily retinal neovascularization.
Predictive value of colour Doppler imaging in a prospective study of visual field progression in primary open‐angle glaucoma
Authors: Martínez Antonio , Sánchez Manuel
Published: October 2005

Purpose:  To assess the value of colour Doppler imaging (CDI) of the ophthalmic artery (OA) and short posterior ciliary arteries (SPCAs) in prognosis of disease progression in patients with primary open‐angle glaucoma (POAG).

Methods:  A total of 49 eyes of 49 patients with POAG were included in a prospective cohort study. At baseline and every 6 months for 36 months, we measured the resistive indices (RIs) of the OA and SPCAs using CDI, visual field examination, intraocular pressure (IOP) and blood pressure measurements. The predictive capacity of the RIs of these vessels was investigated by Cox regression. Receiver operating characteristics curves were plotted for the OA and SPCAs RIs, and predictive values, likelihood ratios and post‐test probabilities were calculated.

Results:  After 36 months, 23 eyes had progressed. In the eyes that progressed, the mean (SD) RI was 0.82 (0.007) for the OA and 0.73 (0.006) for the SPCAs; in the eyes that did not progress the mean RI was 0.70 (0.007) for the OA and 0.63 (0.006) for the SPCAs. The optimal points for the RIs were 0.72 for the OA and 0.65 for the SPCAs. With these cut‐off points, the positive post‐test probability was 90.5% in the OA.

Conclusion:  In eyes with POAG and elevated IOP, the RIs of the OA or SPCAs may reliably predict visual field progression.
Assessment of Aging Individuals with Down Syndrome in Clinical Trials: Results of Baseline Measures
Authors: Sano Mary , Aisen Paul S. , Dalton Arthur J. , Andrews Howard F. , Tsai Wei‐Yann ,   the International Down Syndrome and Alzheimer's Disease Consortium
Published: October 2005

Abstract  A major challenge to developing therapeutic interventions for cognitive loss and dementia in aging individuals with Down syndrome (DS) is the selection of appropriate outcome measures. This report describes the adaptation of the Brief Praxis Test (a nonverbal cognitive test) as a primary outcome measure, as well as the selection of secondary outcome measures for a multicenter clinical trial of vitamin E in aging individuals with DS. Instruments were chosen to assess cognition, behavior, and clinical global function based on previous work in DS and in Alzheimer's disease. Measures of cognition included verbal and nonverbal memory, vocabulary, and orientation. An informant‐based measure of behavior and function was adapted from several existing rating scales, and the Clinical Global Impression was adapted for use with this group. This report also describes initial experiences using these measures with the participants who were enrolled in the clinical trial. As in other populations of persons with dementia, verbal learning, memory, and delayed recall proved to be highly associated with the presence of dementia in our study participants. With the exception of visual memory and orientation measures (which proved too difficult to use with portions of this cohort), the tests employed proved useful in the assessment of individuals across a range of premorbid levels of intellectual disability. The authors conclude that the measures chosen for the assessment of behavior and functional ability and the use of the Clinical Global Impression appear to be appropriate for this population and comparable to instruments that have captured pharmacological benefits in other disease groups.
Comparing Dementia Diagnostic Methods Used with People with Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Burt Diana B. , Primeaux‐Hart Sharon , Loveland Katherine A. , Cleveland Lynne A. , Lewis Kay R. , Lesser Jary , Pearson Pamela L.
Published: October 2005

Abstract  Accurate detection of dementia in adults with intellectual disabilities is important for clinical care, program planning, and clinical research. This paper reports on a study that examined two major diagnostic methods that varied in the following ways: (1) the extent to which they relied on clinical judgment; (2) the statistical method used to detect declines; and (3) the sensitivity to declines in functioning. Two methods based on testing were compared with one based on clinical judgment. Data were drawn from annual sequential assessments of 168 adults with intellectual disabilities (78 with Down syndrome and 90 with other etiologies). Agreement between testing and clinical judgment methods was 72–75% depending on testing method used. Clinical judgment produced a higher rate of dementia diagnosis for adults with Down syndrome compared with testing methods, suggesting a possible bias. The authors found that diagnostic criteria were useful both for identifying dementia and for describing its characteristics. Our results suggest that clinical judgment could result in a higher number of adults with Down syndrome diagnosed with dementia than methods based on test batteries. Common results across research studies indicate that combinations of sources of information (interviews/direct testing) would be most useful for dementia diagnosis. Future collaboration across research sites is needed to promote rapid progress in this important area, with emphasis on differential diagnosis.
A Revised Stress and Coping Framework for Staff Carers of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities and Dementia
Authors: McCarron Mary , McCallion Philip
Published: October 2005

Abstract  The authors sought to modify and apply Pearlin et al.'s “Stress and Coping Framework” model (which was designed to guide research on family caregiving) to research that could help them understand the experiences of staff carers of persons with intellectual disabilities affected by dementia. The authors, two experienced researchers and practitioners in intellectual disabilities and dementia, reviewed the existing literature on the “Stress and Coping Framework” model, as well as additional literature on family and staff caregiving for persons with dementia and intellectual disabilities, in an attempt to identify the model's key variables and to determine whether these variables could be applied to research with staff. They determined that the domains of the “Stress and Coping Framework” model appeared relevant for staff carer research; but proposed changes in some of the variables defining those domains (e.g., some of the original demographic variables were dropped as less important for staff carers and some organizational variables are added). The authors concluded that with modification, Pearlin et al.'s model of stress and coping is a useful guide to support research on the experiences of staff carers of persons with intellectual disabilities affected by dementia. To this end, they have proposed a modified “Stress and Coping Framework” structure that can be applied to research in the area of staff burden.
A Proactive Psychological Strategy for Determining the Presence of Dementia in Adults with Down Syndrome: Preliminary Description of Service Use and Evaluation
Authors: Kalsy Sunny , McQuillan Sharna , Adams Dawn , Basra Tarvinder , Konstantinidi Eva , Broquard Murielle , Peters Simone , Lloyd Vicki , Oliver Chris
Published: October 2005

Abstract  The authors describe and assess the experience of providing proactive screening for dementia in older adults with intellectual disabilities (ID) through a dedicated clinical psychology service within the National Health Service in England. Subjects were the first 18 participants who were referred to the clinical service or were identified as showing early signs of probable dementia in a proactive screening strategy. The screening process involved combining neuropsychological, behavioral, and health data with information from a clinical assessment of the presenting problem in a case series approach. The process of psychological assessment and formulation is illustrated together with an outline of the psychological interventions employed for early‐, mid‐, and late‐stage dementia. An appraisal of the service strategy showed that a dedicated psychology service for dementia assessment can be effective when offering a defined and workable psychological response to the increasing presentation of dementia‐associated behaviors among people with ID. Ancillary services included supporting carers in contributing to the assessment and intervention process so as to ensure appropriately responsive and respectful care management for the person with ID and dementia. The authors recommend that a multimodal stage model of intervention founded on direct performance and informant‐based assessments (within a framework of differential diagnosis) be employed in supporting people with ID and dementia.
Cortical Spreading Depression: A Model for Understanding Migraine Biology and Future Drug Targets
Authors: Haerter Katharina , Ayata Cenk , Moskowitz Michael A.
Published: October 2005

Cortical spreading depression (CSD) is an intense and steady depolarization of neuroglial membranes, and cessation of spontaneous or evoked synaptic activity. CSD can be evoked by simultaneous depolarization of a minimum volume of brain tissue, such as during cerebral ischemia, trauma, or cortical drug application. Once triggered, it slowly spreads to contiguous areas regardless of functional cortical divisions or arterial territories. A pathophysiological overlap between CSD and migraine aura has long been suspected. Both migraine aura and headache result from CSD. Neurological symptoms during migraine aura spread, and the speed of spread on retinotopic maps is consistent with the speed of CSD in experimental animals. Migraine headache results from CSD‐induced activation of nociceptors in meninges and large blood vessels in concert with modulation of central pain mechanisms. Insights into causes and consequences of CSD have come from studies in animals with genetically modified neuronal Ca2+ channel subtypes that influence CSD threshold; therefore, genetic variations may influence CSD susceptibility in humans. Identification of CSD as an important cause of migraine headache provides new insights into mechanisms leading to an attack, and the potential for development of new prophylactic agents.
Science and Environmental Policy‐Making: Bias‐Proofing the Assessment Process
Authors: McKitrick Ross
Published: October 2005

Scientific assessment panels are playing increasingly influential roles in national and international policy formation. Although they typically appeal to the standard of journal peer review as their quality control criterion, there seems to be confusion about what peer review actually does. It is, at best, a necessary condition of reliability, but not a sufficient condition. There is also the problem that assessment panels may be biased in favor of one side or another when evaluating areas in which the science is unclear. In this paper I argue that additional checks and balances are needed on the information going into scientific assessment reports when it will be used to justify major policy investments. I propose two new mechanisms to bias‐proof the outcome: an Audit Panel and a Counterweight Panel. The need for such mechanisms is discussed with reference to the “hockey stick” debate in climate change.