bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Borders, Trade, and Politics: Exchange between the United States and Mexican Cattle Industries, 1870–1947
Authors: Lopes Maria-Aparecida , Riguzzi Paolo
Published: October 2012

This article analyzes the livestock exchange between the United States and Mexico, beginning with the initial surge in regular trade in the 1870s until its interruption caused by the outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease in 1947. Since the final two decades of the nineteenth century, cattle raising in both countries became increasingly intertwined through commerce. Though this trade was clearly international, as it entailed crossing a political border between nations, we argue that it was also an interregional commerce between contiguous, similar exporting bases, those of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. However, the weight of politics and the legal border never ceased to make their presence felt and, indeed, were intensely manifested in the sphere of exchange. This particular branch of commerce was subject not only to numerous and repeated restrictive measures both related and unrelated to tariffs, but also to extraordinary political circumstances like the Mexican Revolution and the two World Wars. Our purpose is to reconstruct the interactions among resource endowments, commerce regulations, and supply and demand, as well as the actors and institutions that shaped the conditions of the transborder exchange. Such conditions allowed for continuity in livestock trading amid changing circumstances.
Chronicle of an Inconclusive Negotiation: Perón, the International Monetary Fund, and the World Bank (1946–1955)
Authors: Kedar Claudia
Published: October 2012

Argentina joined the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (World Bank) in 1956—ten years later than all other American nations and only one year after President Juan Perón’s overthrow. This fact has led scholars to conclude that Perón refused to join the Fund and Bank because he considered them to be tools of US imperialism. This article reveals that, contrary to populist depictions of Perón, he made significant efforts to make Argentina a member of the IMF and the World Bank. In effect, between 1946 and 1955 Perón conducted intensive and almost continuous negotiations with the IMF’s and World Bank’s most senior officials. During this period of confidential negotiations, Perón’s economic policies became more flexible and liberal.
Creole Anti-Communism: Labor, the Peruvian Communist Party, and Apra, 1930–1934
Authors: Drinot Paulo
Published: October 2012

Recent research has reminded us of the centrality of anti-Communism to the politics of the Cold War in Latin America. This article focuses on a form of anti-Communism that I call creole anti-Communism, which predated the Cold War and was not imposed from abroad or indeed from above. In Peru, anti-Communism proved a key idiom through which the Alianza Popular Revolucionaria Americana (APRA) sought to gain control over organized labor and to challenge the Peruvian Communist Party’s claims to represent and lead workers. APRA’s anti-Communism grew out of Víctor Haya de la Torre’s polemics with José Carlos Mariátegui and with the Comintern. But it was also shaped by APRA’s evolving strategy in relation to organized labor in the early 1930s. I focus on the ways in which APRA came to view labor autonomy vis-à-vis the party and, more generally, workers’ rejection of Communist attempts to politically control the labor movement as key tactics in its broader struggle against the Peruvian Communist Party. In a context of growing repression of everything associated with Communism, APRA proved adept at channeling, and benefiting from, a form of labor anti-Communism, or anti-Communism from below, by adapting its own strategy toward labor.
The relative responsiveness of patient-rated outcome measures in evaluating clinical change after Dupuytren's surgery: A literature review and prospective observational pilot study
Authors: Larson Debbie
Published: October 2012

Introduction

Patient-rated outcome measures (PROMs) to measure upper limb activity and participation exist but there is little evidence to support their responsiveness in Dupuytren's surgery.

Methods

A literature review was conducted to evaluate the relative responsiveness of PROMs used in patients treated surgically for Dupuytren's contracture. A prospective observational pilot study was performed to test feasibility and clarify procedures in advance of a larger study to compare the relative responsiveness of different PROMs. The Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand ( QuickDASH), the Patient Outcomes of Surgery-Hand/Arm (POS-Hand/Arm) and the Patient Evaluation Measure (PEM) were administered to eight patients before and 12 weeks after a fasciectomy.

Results

The literature review identified seven studies using PROMs before and after surgery for a Dupuytren's contracture. The PROMs were the Michigan Hand Questionnaire (MHQ), the DASH and the QuickDASH. All three had moderate-to-large effect sizes and standardized response means with the MHQ showing higher responsiveness than the DASH. In the pilot study the PEM demonstrated a higher responsiveness than the POS-Hand/Arm followed by the QuickDASH. No evidence was found to support responsiveness in terms of what is clinically relevant in relation to a patient-rated external criterion.

Discussion

The literature review and pilot study findings justify the need and feasibility to conduct a larger study to investigate the relative responsiveness of PROMs in patients undergoing Dupuytren's surgery.
Evaluation of outcomes for patients attending a rehabilitation group after complex hand injury
Authors: Adams Zoë , Newington Lisa , Blakeway Megan
Published: October 2012

Introduction

A rehabilitation group intervention has been an established treatment programme for patients with complex hand injuries requiring intensive therapy input.

Methods

A prospective audit of 20 patients was carried out to evaluate the outcomes of those attending the group with regard to improving hand function. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand assessment was employed as a before and after measure of outcome.

Results

Nineteen out of 20 patients demonstrated an improvement in their hand function following group intervention. Patients with injuries uncomplicated by complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) demonstrated the highest level of improvement. Patients with CRPS demonstrated the lowest level of improvement.

Discussion

Group therapy programmes are a valuable tool in delivering intensive therapy intervention to patients with complex hand injuries. Patients with injuries complicated by CRPS may benefit more from individualized therapy intervention.
Pilot randomized controlled trial comparing specific dynamic stability exercises with general exercises for thumb carpometacarpal joint osteoarthritis
Authors: Davenport Barbara Jane , Jansen Victoria , Yeandle Naomi
Published: October 2012

Introduction

Exercises are widely used and recommended for peripheral joint and hand osteoarthritis (OA); however, the evidence on which specific exercise regimen is most effective is unclear.

Methods

A pilot randomized controlled trial was conducted to compare the effect of specific first carpometacarpal (CMC) joint stabilizing exercises and general exercise on function, pain and strength. Thirty-nine participants with OA of the first CMC joint were recruited and randomly assigned into one of two exercise groups. Exercises were taught as a home programme then reviewed and only progressed as tolerated. The participant and assessing physiotherapist were blinded. Primary outcome was the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) Questionnaire at three and six months. Pinch and grip strength, pain scores at rest and during pinch and abductor pollicis longus (APL) moment were secondary measures.

Results

Twenty-two patients completed follow-up at six months. At baseline the general exercise group had significantly stronger pinch and APL moments but was not different in any other measures. The improvement (reduction) of DASH scores at three and six months was not significantly different between the two groups; however, the general exercise group had a greater reduction in DASH score from baseline to three months (13 points P = 0.001). The outcomes were not affected ( P > 0.05) by any variables except APL moment at baseline. Increased APL moment at baseline was associated with an improved outcome in both groups ( P = 0.01).

Conclusions

While this pilot study was inadequately powered the results can be used to plan a future large-scale trial.
Stem cell therapy for critical limb ischemia: what can we learn from cell therapy for chronic wounds?
Authors: Jadlowiec Caroline , Brenes Robert A , Li Xin , Lv Wei , Protack Clinton D , Collins Michael J , Dardik Alan
Published: October 2012

Although much progress has been made regarding our knowledge of stem cells and their potential applications for therapeutic angiogenesis, there has been less success with the clinical application of this knowledge to patients with critical limb ischemia (CLI). Patients with CLI often have chronic wounds and newer cell-based therapies for chronic wounds show interesting parallels to stem cell therapy for CLI. Several human-derived wound care products and therapies, including human neonatal fibroblast-derived dermis (Dermagraft®), bilayered bioengineered skin substitute (Apligraf®), recombinant human platelet-derived growth factor and autologous platelet-rich plasma may provide insight into the mechanisms through which differentiated cells can be used as therapy for chronic wounds, and, analogously, by which stem cells might function therapeutically in CLI.
Aneurysmal degeneration of a saphenous vein graft following the repair of a popliteal aneurysm: case report and literature review
Authors: López María Teresa González , Dorgham Ali Sadek , Rosas Fernando Calleja , de Loma Julio Gutiérrez
Published: October 2012

True aneurysm formation in arterialized autologous veins is an unusual complication. A saccular aneurysmal degeneration of 53 mm (maximal diameter) of a saphenous vein graft inserted for repair of a popliteal aneurysm, four years after implantation, is reported. The patient (with prior history of abdominal aortic aneurysm) had been initially treated through a posterior approach. A new saphenous vein bypass grafting (medial approach) was performed. Histological examination revealed myointimal fibrosis, medial degeneration and inflammation. In spite of the widespread use of the autologous saphenous vein as an arterial substitute, this complication is extremely rare and its etiology remains unclear. Atherosclerosis is considered to be the main cause of aneurysm formation in vein grafts, but current data suggest that additional etiopathogenic factors should be further investigated. We note the rarity of this finding and review the literature for true aneurysm formation within vein grafts used for bypass procedures.
A clampless and sutureless aortic anastomosis technique using an endograft connector for aortoiliac occlusive disease in which the aorta cannot be clamped or sewn due to calcification or scarring
Authors: Papadimitriou Dimitrios , Mayer Dieter , Lachat Mario , Pecoraro Felice , Frauenfelder Thomas , Pfammatter Thomas , Ueda Hideki , Donas Konstantinos , Veith Frank J , Rancic Zoran
Published: October 2012

Bypass surgery in aortoiliac or aortofemoral occlusive disease can be technically demanding and hazardous due to huge calcifications and/or patient co-morbidities. We report about mid-term results of a telescoping sutureless aortic anastomosis technique using endografts as connectors to address such challenging situations. This is a single-center experience (2004–2011) in seven patients (63 ± 6 years) requiring aortoiliac (three) or aortofemoral (four) bypass surgery. In six cases, an aortic stent graft was telescoped into the infrarenal aorta and partly deployed within the aorta and partly outside the aorta. In the first case, a bifurcated stent graft was deployed and the iliac legs were prolonged extra-anatomically with surgical grafts to reach the femoral bifurcation. In the following five cases, a tapered tubular stent graft was deployed through the aortic wall, landing inside a bifurcated surgical graft that was extra-anatomically connected to the iliac or femoral arteries. In the last case, which presented a hostile abdomen and high-risk for extensive surgery, a similar technique was used, but on the iliac artery level. In that case, an iliac stent graft re-loaded ‘upside down’ was deployed through the left common iliac wall, landing distally inside a hand-made 10 × 10 mm bifurcated surgical graft that was extra-anatomically connected to the left external iliac artery and to the right femoral artery. The distal anastomoses on the seven cases were performed either with running sutures (ten) or with VORTEC (four). Telescoping aortic and/or iliac anastomosis was successful in all patients. There was no perioperative mortality. One patient developed postoperative hyperperfusion of the left leg and necessitated fasciotomy. During a mean follow-up of 1.8 ± 2 years (minimum: 270 days, maximum: 7.1 years), all of the grafts remained patent and there was neither stent-graft migration nor stenosis on the level of the aortic or iliofemoral connection. One patient showed disease progression and required percutaneous transluminal angioplasty on the external iliac artery during follow-up. The uneventful perioperative course in these seven patients, with a follow-up of up to six years, underscores that this new technique can be considered in patients with aortoiliac or aortofemoral occlusive disease and in whom clamping and/or anastomosis is expected to be cumbersome or impossible.
Incisional hernia postrepair of abdominal aortic occlusive and aneurysmal disease: five-year incidence
Authors: Alnassar Sami , Bawahab Mohammed , Abdoh Ahmed , Guzman Randolph , Al Tuwaijiri Talal , Louridas George
Published: October 2012

The aim of this study was to report the five-year incidence of incisional hernia after vascular repair of abdominal aortic occlusive (AOD) and aneurysmal disease (AAA), and to determine the factors associated with the development of this complication. Consecutive patients who underwent AAA and AOD at the University of Manitoba, Canada, between January 1999 and December 2002, were recruited and evaluated by clinical examination one week, one month and six months after the surgery, and through medical records review thereafter. The development of postoperative incisional hernia was recorded and analyzed. Two-hundred four patients, with a mean age of 70.1 years, provided consent for the study. The overall five-year incidence of incisional hernia was 69.1% and the overall median failure time was 48 months. The median failure time was 48 months for AOD and 36 months for AAA ( P < 0.01). The urgent and ruptured AAA repair had a higher five-year incidence of incisional hernia as compared with AOD or elective AAA repair ( P < 0.01). A history of bilateral inguinal hernia was significantly associated with incisional hernia ( P < 0.05). Men and patients who were 65 years and older had a higher five-year incidence of incisional hernia ( P < 0.01). Age ≥65 years, male gender, hypertension and past bilateral inguinal hernia repair double the risk for the development of incisional hernia (hazard ratio = 2.1. 2.2, 1.7 and 2.8, respectively). In conclusion, the five-year incidence of incisional hernia after vascular repair of AOD or AAA is 69.1%, and tends to occur late after vascular repair.
Chimney technique in the endovascular management of complex aortic disease
Authors: Antoniou George A , Schiro Andrew , Antoniou Stavros A , Farquharson Finn , Murray David , Smyth J Vincent , Serracino-Inglott Ferdinand
Published: October 2012

The objective of this study was to systematically review the literature reporting on the chimney technique and perform an analysis of the outcomes. A search of electronic databases was undertaken to identify all studies reporting on the outcome of the chimney technique. The selected articles were divided into those reporting on the treatment of aortic pathology involving the visceral and those involving the supra-aortic branches. Twenty-one articles reporting on the treatment of juxta/supra-renal aorta and aortic arch disease in 102 and 37 patients, respectively, were identified. In the visceral group, an overall technical success rate of 91% was achieved, the perioperative major morbidity and mortality rates were 17 and 5%, respectively, and an early type I endoleak developed in 13 patients (13%). During follow-up, one patient died of intestinal ischemia. In the supra-aortic group, the technical success rate was recorded in 95%, and three patients (8%) developed an early type I endoleak. Three patients (13%) required conversion to open surgery during follow-up. In conclusion, this technique may be viewed as a complementary technique in high-surgical-risk patients.
Differentiation of myocardial scar from potential pitfalls and artefacts in delayed enhancement MRI
Authors: Turkbey E B , Nacif M S , Noureldin R A , Sibley C T , Liu S , Lima J A C , Bluemke D A
Published: October 2012

Delayed enhancement cardiac magnetic resonance (DE-CMR) imaging is used increasingly to identify and quantify focal myocardial scar. Our objective is to describe factors used in the interpretation of DE-CMR images and to highlight potential pitfalls and artefacts that mimic myocardial scar. Inversion recovery gradient recalled echo sequence is commonly accepted as the standard of reference for DE-CMR. There are also alternative sequences that can be performed in a single breath-hold or with free breathing. Radiologists need to be aware of factors affecting image quality, and potential pitfalls and artefacts that may generate focal hyperintense areas that mimic myocardial scar.
Medial meniscal root tears and meniscal extrusion transverse length ratios on MRI
Authors: Park H-J , Kim S S , Lee S-Y , Choi Y-J , Chung E-C , Rho M-H , Kwag H-J
Published: October 2012

Objective

To evaluate the clinical utility of the meniscal extrusion transverse ratio of the medial meniscus in the diagnosis of meniscal root tear compared with the gold standard of arthroscopic diagnosis.

Methods

This retrospective study sample included 32 males and 35 females who underwent MRI at our institution. There were 24 meniscal root tear cases. The control groups were 18 cases of medial meniscal tears without root tears and 25 cases of negative meniscal findings on arthroscopy. Meniscal extrusion (L) and maximal transverse lengths (T) of the medial meniscus were measured, and L/T ratios were calculated. These results were correlated with arthroscopic findings and analysed statistically. With arthroscopic findings used as the standard of reference, the sensitivity and specificity of 10%, 11% and 12% extrusion thresholds, and 3 mm of medial meniscal extrusion (MME) as diagnostic thresholds, were calculated.

Results

The mean length of the meniscal extrusions of meniscal root tears was twice as long as the control group. The mean L/T ratio of the meniscal root tears was approximately 13%, while those of the control groups were 5%. The differences in the L and L/T between the meniscal root tears and normal and meniscal root tears and other meniscal tears were statistically significant (p<0.001), but those between normal and other meniscal tears were not. The best diagnostic discrimination was achieved using an extrusion ratio threshold of 10% (79% sensitivity, 86% specificity). The 3 mm of MME threshold demonstrated high specificity (98%), but not high sensitivity (54%).

Conclusion

The mean L/T ratio of the meniscal root tears was approximately 13% and was statistically significant. The best diagnostic discrimination was achieved using an extrusion ratio threshold of 10%.

Advances in knowledge

The use of the L/T ratio in combination with MME can be a useful method for evaluating medial meniscal root tears.
Genotype Copy Number Variations using Gaussian Mixture Models: Theory and Algorithms
Authors: Lin Chang-Yun , Lo Yungtai , Ye Kenny Q.
Published: October 2012

Copy number variations (CNVs) are important in the disease association studies and are usually targeted by most recent microarray platforms developed for GWAS studies. However, the probes targeting the same CNV regions could vary greatly in performance, with some of the probes carrying little information more than pure noise. In this paper, we investigate how to best combine measurements of multiple probes to estimate copy numbers of individuals under the framework of Gaussian mixture model (GMM). First we show that under two regularity conditions and assume all the parameters except the mixing proportions are known, optimal weights can be obtained so that the univariate GMM based on the weighted average gives the exactly the same classification as the multivariate GMM does. We then developed an algorithm that iteratively estimates the parameters and obtains the optimal weights, and uses them for classification. The algorithm performs well on simulation data and two sets of real data, which shows clear advantage over classification based on the equal weighted average.
Comparative Evaluation of m-level Thyristor based MLCR CSC
Authors: Das Bhaba , Watson Neville , Liu Yonghe
Published: October 2012

In this paper a comparative evaluation study is carried out for a 3-level, 5-level, 7-level thyristor based multi-level current reinjection (MLCR)current source converters (CSC) in terms of line current total harmonic distortion (THD) obtained, reinjection transformer requirements, reinjection switch ratings, reinjection control circuitry complexities. MLCR concept adds self commutation capability to thyristors, produces high quality line current waveforms and provides reactive power compensation in CSCs. Multi-level conversion is applied to generate the required optimum injection current which, when reinjected to the ac side reduces the line current THD. Extensive PSCAD/EMTDC simulations are presented for the comparing the different m-level reinjection schemes.
New working group launched to provide sharper focus to ICE learned society work
Authors: Brown Alison , Marsh Pat
Published: October 2012

The Institution of Civil Engineers has established a new working group to ensure all learned society knowledge output is topical, relevant and of use to members. Innovation manager Alison Brown and associated societies manager Pat Marsh explain what the new group is doing.
Gingival Biotype Enhancement and Root Coverage Using Human Placental Chorion Membrane
Authors: Suresh D.K. , Gupta Akanksha
Published: October 2012

Introduction: Various surgical techniques have been proposed to cover denuded root surfaces, but, the qualitative parameters of gingiva, such as gingival biotype, have been overlooked. Very few attempts have been made to convert gingival biotype to a more favorable one. This case report shows the potential of human placental chorion membrane for root coverage and enhancement of gingival biotype. The rationale behind its use was based on the membrane's properties.

Case Presentation: A 56‐year‐old male with a vertical recession depth of 2 mm in the maxillary right canine was treated with coronally advanced flap along with placement of chorion membrane. Before treatment, the soft‐tissue biotype examined through transgingival probing was thin. Three months after surgery, there was 100% root coverage, and the soft‐tissue biotype also changed from thin to thick.

Conclusion: Chorion membrane, which is a rich source of various collagen and non‐collagen proteins, such as laminin, fibronectin, and proteoglycans, can be used for root coverage and enhancement of thin gingival biotype to thick biotype.
A 42‐Year Observation of Traditional Periodontal Therapy Supplemented by Dental Implants
Authors: Nevins Myron , Dornbush Jeffrey , Koo Samuel , Depaoli Massimo , Kim David M.
Published: October 2012

Introduction: Periodontal disease can be successfully treated and maintained for an extensive period. A small category of patients demonstrates aggressive periodontitis (previously known as refractory periodontitis), which does not respond appropriately to the traditional therapy even when the patient's compliance is excellent.

Case Presentation: This case report presents a long‐term observation of dental implants replacing teeth with a compromised maxillary periodontium. Implants were placed initially in 1989 and 1993 to supplement some remaining teeth. These implants continue to function after 23 years. The maxillary central incisors were fractured in 2005 and replaced with two platform‐switched implants. This area has demonstrated crestal stability after 7 years.

Conclusion: A long‐term observation of this patient demonstrated that dental implants are successful in periodontally compromised patients, and the crestal bone remained stable around the platform‐switched implants.
Hyaluronic Acid as an Adjunct After Scaling and Root Planing: A Prospective Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Eick Sigrun , Renatus Antonio , Heinicke Melanie , Pfister Wolfgang , Stratul Stefan‐Ioan , Jentsch Holger
Published: October 2012

Background: The study is designed to determine the effect on clinical variables, subgingival bacteria, and local immune response brought about by application of hyaluronan‐containing gels in early wound healing after scaling and root planing (SRP).

Methods: In this randomized clinical study, data from 34 individuals with chronic periodontitis were evaluated after full‐mouth SRP. In the test group (n = 17), hyaluronan gels in two molecular weights were additionally applied during the first 2 weeks after SRP. The control group (n = 17) was treated with SRP only. Probing depth (PD) and clinical attachment level (CAL) were recorded at baseline and after 3 and 6 months, and subgingival plaque and sulcus fluid samples were taken for microbiologic and biochemical analysis.

Results: In both groups, PD and CAL were significantly reduced (P <0.001). The changes in PD and the reduction of the number of pockets with PD ≥5 mm were significantly higher in the test group after 3 (P = 0.014 and 0.021) and 6 (P = 0.046 and 0.045) months. Six months after SRP, the counts of Treponema denticola were significantly reduced in both groups (both P = 0.043), as were those of Campylobacter rectus in the test group only (P = 0.028). Prevotella intermedia and Porphyromonas gingivalis increased in the control group.

Conclusion: The adjunctive application of hyaluronan may have positive effects on PD reduction and may prevent recolonization by periodontopathogens.
Efficacy of Acellular Dermal Matrix and Coronally Advanced Flaps for the Treatment of Induced Gingival Recession Defects: A Histomorphometric Study in Dogs
Authors: Al‐Hezaimi Khalid , Rudek Ivan , Al‐Hamdan Khalid Saleh , Javed Fawad , Iezzi Giovanna , Piattelli Adriano , Wang Hom‐Lay
Published: October 2012

Background: Gingival recession (GR) defects can be treated by various methods, including acellular dermal matrix (ADM) or coronally advanced flaps (CAFs). The aim of this histomorphometric experiment is to compare the efficacy of ADM and CAF for treating GR defects in dogs.

Methods: In eight beagle dogs, a critical‐size labial GR defect was surgically induced on bilateral maxillary cuspids under general anesthesia. Test sites received ADM and CAF, and control sites underwent CAF treatment alone. Plaque index (PI), bleeding index (BI), and gingival index (GI) were measured at 4 weeks (baseline), 8 weeks, and 16 weeks. Width of keratinized gingiva (KG) was determined at baseline and at 16 weeks. Depth of recession and width of GR below the cemento‐enamel junction (CEJ) was also determined. After 4 months, animals were sacrificed, and jaw blocks were histomorphometrically assessed for tissue thickness and distance from the stent to the gingival margin (GM) and to the CEJ.

Results: At 4‐, 8‐, and 16‐week intervals, there was no significant difference in the BI, GI, and PI at the test and control sites. At 16 weeks, thickness of KG was significantly higher at the control sites than test sites (P <0.01). There was no difference in the midfacial recession depth and recession width at the test and control sites at baseline and before euthanasia (16 weeks). Histomorphometrically, there was no significant difference in tissue thicknesses and distances from the stent to the GM and CEJ in the test and control sites.

Conclusion: ADM might yield similar results to a CAF alone and could decrease the amount of KG.
Periodontal Inflammatory Conditions Among Gutka Chewers and Non‐chewers With and Without Prediabetes
Authors: Javed Fawad , Tenenbaum Howard C. , Nogueira‐Filho Getulio , Nooh Nasser , O'Bello Correa Fernanda , Warnakulasuriya Saman , Dasanayake Ananda P. , Al‐Hezaimi Khalid
Published: October 2012

Background: It is known that gutka chewing jeopardizes periodontal health; however, severity of periodontal inflammation in gutka chewers with and without prediabetes remains unknown. The aim of this study is to investigate the association of periodontal inflammatory conditions with gutka chewing and prediabetes.

Methods: In this cross‐sectional study, the effect of gutka use on periodontal health is investigated among 44 individuals with prediabetes and 44 without prediabetes. Demographic information regarding age, sex, duration of prediabetes, and gutka‐chewing habits was collected using a questionnaire. Periodontal inflammatory conditions (plaque index [PI], bleeding on probing [BOP], probing depth [PD], marginal bone loss [MBL]) and fasting blood glucose levels (FBGLs) were recorded. Group differences in periodontal inflammatory parameters were tested using univariate and multivariable analyses (α ≤5%).

Results: Periodontal inflammatory parameters (PI, BOP, and PD) were significantly higher in individuals with prediabetes irrespective of gutka‐chewing habit (P <0.05). Odds of periodontal inflammation in individuals with prediabetes were nine times higher than in healthy controls (95% confidence interval [CI] = 3.4 to 23.6). Gutka chewing alone, chewing among individuals with prediabetes, and chewing among healthy controls did not significantly increase the odds of periodontal inflammatory conditions. Individuals with prediabetes were significantly more likely to have periodontal inflammation than individuals without prediabetes even after controlling for sex and gutka chewing (odds ratio = 13.2; 95% CI = 4.3 to 40.7).

Conclusion: In medically healthy individuals, periodontal inflammatory conditions are worse in gutka chewers compared to non‐chewers; in patients with prediabetes, the severity of periodontal inflammation is governed by hyperglycemia when compared to habitual gutka usage.
Delivering an essential and sustainable water plan for Sydney, Australia
Authors: Nicholson Colin
Published: October 2012

The water supply for Sydney, which is the largest city in Australia, has been affected by variable climate patterns which include long periods of drought. Water resource needs for the future will be significantly affected by climate change and population growth. A ‘Water for Life’ equation has been adopted as a multi-faceted approach to achieving future, sustainable water security. The four parts of the equation are dams, recycling, water efficiency and desalination. Significant achievements have been made over the last 10 years which have allowed us to bolster the demand/supply balance by 50%. In the future, a portfolio approach will be used to select schemes for water supply security. Major factors considered will include construction and operational cost, volume of water saved or produced, public health and environmental risk, customer and community acceptance and political willpower.
Risk perceptions and receptivity of Australian urban water practitioners to stormwater harvesting and treatment systems
Authors: Dobbie M. F. , Brown R. R.
Published: October 2012

Stormwater harvesting and treatment will be critical systems within water-sensitive cities. Although water practitioners acknowledge the importance of developing stormwater as a water source, their risk perceptions might be barriers. Risk perceptions can be understood within a receptivity framework, with awareness, association, acquisition and application components. In this study, water practitioners' risk perceptions of stormwater harvesting and treatment in Australian cities were examined within this framework, to identify where to focus reform efforts within the water industry to improve their adoption. Analysis of data from an online survey exploring water practitioners' (N = 620) perceptions of risk of alternative water systems revealed that three-quarters of respondents thought stormwater harvesting and treatment yielded at least moderate benefits, supporting fit-for-purpose use of treated stormwater and installation of the infrastructure in different contexts. Perceived general risk of each was slight, although stormwater harvesting was perceived as more risky than treatment, and this difference persisted for specific risks, e.g. public health, environmental. In terms of the receptivity framework, perceived specific risks of stormwater harvesting and treatment systems challenge, to different extents, the practitioners' association, acquisition and application of the systems in Australian cities. In particular, reform efforts should be targeted to perceived management and cost-related risks.
Shell quality - everlasting problem in the today poultry science
Authors: Pavlovski Zlatica , Skrbic Z. , Lukic M. , Vitorovic D. , Lilic S. , Petricevic V.
Published: October 2012

Shell breakage (6-20%) is of major concern for its economic consequences and
safety of egg consumption. A great deal of effort in the fields of nutrition,
genetics and environmental conditions have been carried out to improve
eggshell quality but understanding the formation of the eggshell fabric and
the origin of shell defects is perhaps the key to solving eggshell problems.
The aim of this review is to summaries new information on eggshell problems.
The aim of this review is to summaries new information on eggshell formation
and update the nutritional unfavourable environmental conditions.
The effect of phase nutrition during starter period on production performances and nitrogen content in feces of broilers of different genotypes
Authors: Tolimir N. , Peric L. , Milosevic N. , Djukic-Stojcic M. , Jovanovic R. , Bogdanovic V.
Published: October 2012

Objective of the research was to investigate the effect of phase nutrition,
i.e. different mixtures used in broiler nutrition with phase reduction of
protein cotnent during starter period on production peformances of fattening
chickens of different genotypes and on nitrogen content in faeces.
Differences between groups (treatments) were in the type of mixtures use din
starter period, and according to the following program: T1 (control group) -
nutrition consisted of mixtures with 23% of proteins in duration from day 1
to 21; T2 - from day 1 to 14, mixture containing 23% of protein was used, and
from day 14 to 21, mixture with 20% of proteins; T3 - from day 1 to 7,
mixture was used containing 23% of protein and from day 7 to 21, mixture with
20% of proteins; T4 - nutrition with mixture containing 20% of proteins in
duration from day 1 to 21. During the trial period (from day 1 to 21)
production parameters were followed. Nitrogen content was determined in a
collective faeces sample. Results showed that chickens of different genotypes
expressed different sensitivity to protein restriction. Comparing the trial
groups with the control in the third week, in chickens of Ross 308
provenience significantly lower body weight was registered only in chickens
of T4 group with the highest protein reduction. In Cobb 500 chickens,
significantly lower body weight was determined in T3 and T4 trial groups. In
case of both hybrids, in T2 group, slightly lower body weight was
established, but without statistically significant difference compared to the
control. Feed conversion in both genotypes was the highest in T3 and T4
treatments. The program of phase nutrition resulted in decrease of the
nitrogen content in faeces. Based on obtained data it can be concluded that
applied nutrition treatments with drastic protein reduction during starter
period in both genotypes had negative effect on production performances.
Therefore, the composition and dynamics of mixture changes must be taken into
consideration when formulating the program of phase nutrition, in order to
achieve both goals - decrease of protein content in feed with simultaneous
diminished nitrogen excretion and achieving good results.
Estimation of the relative bioavailability of several zinc sources for broilers when fed a conventional diet
Authors: Sahraei M. , Janmmohamadi H. , Taghizadeh A. , Moghadam Ali , Rafat S.A.
Published: October 2012

An experiment was conducted with 312 day-old male broiler chicks in grower
phase(8-28d) to estimate the biological availability of four sources Zinc
(Zn), Zinc sulfate(ZnSO4.H2O), two sources of Zinc oxide(ZnO FG1 and ZnO FG2)
and Bioplex Zn. Zinc sulfate (ZnSO4.H2O) was used as the standard in the
bioavailability assay. Chicks were allotted randomly to 13 dietary treatments
with 6 birds per replicate and 4 replicates per treatment, that included an
unsupplemented corn-soybean meal basal diet (25.50 mg of Zn/kg of DM), or the
basal diet supplemented with 100, 150 or 200 mg/kg of DM as either ZnSO4.H2O
(33 % Zn), Zinc oxide FG1(72%Zn), Zinc oxide FG2 (75%Zn) or Bioplex Zn (15%
Zn). Dietary Zn level and source had no effect (P>0.05) of feed intake or
body weight gain of chicks during first and second weeks of experimental
periods, but feed conversion ratio in the first and second week and feed
intake, body weight gain or feed conversion ratio in third week and total
experimental periods were significant difference between treatments (P<0.05).
The relative biological availability values using body weight gain were
estimated to be 59, 99 or 45 for three levels of Zinc oxide FG1, 64, 78 or 31
for three levels of Zinc oxide FG2 and 151, 200 or 147 for three levels of
Bioplex Zn, respectively. From the standpoint of bioavailability, Bioplex Zn
was more available to broiler chicks than Zn from other sources and can be
used by the feed industry as sources of supplemental Zn for broiler chickens.
Heritability and repeatability estimates of reproduction traits in purebred pigs
Authors: Vidovic Vitomir , Lukac D. , Stupar M. , Visnjic V. , Krnjaic J.
Published: October 2012

Research was performed on four farms, on 2434 highly fertile females Landrace
and Yorkshire, and 28 boars of Danish origin, or 7684 consecutive parities,
in period 2009 - 2012. Study of genetic parameters of conventional breeds
Landrace and Yorkshire were conducted on 3964 females who mated with 49 males
or 15764 litters in the same period. Estimates of genetic parameters for
litter size show the same tendency as the legality of the purebred sows that
produce 11-14 weaned piglets less per sow per year. Environmental factors,
HYS, food technology and management expressed no significant effect on
traits. Heritability and repeatability of live and still born piglets, litter
size and the live at day 5 after birth and the number of piglets weaned in
category of low hereditary traits whose values vary within the limits of 0.07
to 0.12 for the heritability and from 0.15 to 0.19 for the repeatability.
There was tendency of lower values of genetic parameters in the conventional
compared to highly fertile sows, which is considered to be the effect of
selection on gene frequency for the observed traits.
The effect of the level of milk yield on the reproduction traits in black and white cows
Authors: Djedovic R. , Bogdanovic V. , Trifunovic G. , Petrovic M.D. , Petrovic M.M. , Stanojevic D.
Published: October 2012

In this study a relationship between the milk yield and following
reproduction traits: number of inseminations per conception [AIS], service
period [SP], age at calving [AC], calving interval [CI] and birth weight [BW]
is studied. The research involved dairy cows of European type of Black and
White cattle which are being intensively improved by the genes of Holstein -
Friesian breed. Mean values of general average for number of inseminations
per conception, service period, age at calving, calving interval and birth
weight are: 2.00; 98.78; 1088.08; 376.70 and 36.40, respectively. In general,
the estimated phenotypic correlations (rp) between the milk yield over
standard lactations and fertility traits were positive and unfavorable, and
ranged from 0.24 for the relationship between milk yield and birth weight to
0.70 for relationship between milk yield and age at calving.
Study of animal welfare status in dairy cow herds in Hungary
Authors: Gudaj R.T. , Brydl E. , Lehoczky J. , Komlósi I.
Published: October 2012

Animal welfare is a hot topic among consumers, producers and researches
nowadays. The major welfare problems of dairy cows are mastitis, lameness,
and any conditions which lead to impaired reproduction, inability to express
normal behaviour, emergency physiological responses or injury. This paper
summarizes preliminary results of project taken in 27 Hungarian dairy farms
evaluating general animal welfare. The most important areas for improving
animals? wellbeing are related to facilities and comfort of resting. Findings
include slippery floors, cows struggling laying and standing in cubicles.
Other measures include hair loss, hocks, neck rail injuries and number of
thin cows (Body Condition Score 1 and 2). Mouldy silage and low quality of
other feedstuff was also found. In conclusion, preliminary results confirm
strong demand for monitoring farms and discussions with managers and farmers
about welfare measures needed to be taken on farms immediately.
The effect of the system of crossing on fattening parameters of weaned lambs
Authors: Ruzic-Muslic D. , Petrovic M.P. , Petrovic M.M. , Bijelic Z. , Pantelic V. , Perisic P. , Caro-Petrovic V.
Published: October 2012

In this paper, the effect of different systems of crossing of sheep:
two-breed (PxW) and three-breed (PxWxIDF) on production results - body weight
and average daily gain of lambs weaned at the age of 60 days and fattened to
age of 120 days, was investigated. Also, the effect of crossing on
consumption and conversion of food and nutrients was monitored. Study was
carried out on the Experimental sheep farm of the Institute for Animal
Husbandry, Belgrade-Zemun, and following breeds were used in the crossing:
Pirot Pramenka (P), Wurttemberg (W) and Ile de France (IDF). Pirot Pramenka
was used as the maternal basis, while Wurttemberg rams were used as sires,
and as terminal breed, Ile de France rams were used. Results have shown that
the three-breed crosses of F1 generation, compared to two-breed crosses,
obtained higher body gain for 19.23% with lower food intake for 5.19%, during
fattening period lasting from 60th to 120th day of age. Regarding feed
conversion ratio, they used per 1 kg of body gain 29.61% less hay and 20.82%
less concentrate feeds. Positive biological effect exhibited in three-breed
crosses (PxWxIDF) is consequence of individual heterosis and maternal
heterosis.
The influence of biologically active supplement "Bioril" on performance of fattening lambs
Authors: Ilic Z. , Stojkovic J. , Ruzic-Muslic D. , Caro-Petrovic V. , Petrovic M.P. , Djokovic R.D. , Kurcubic V.S.
Published: October 2012

Investigations were carried out in order to determine whether the addition of
bioactive substances "Bioril" on different percentages in concentrate (0.3%
and 0.6%), has an impact on weight gain and feed conversion in lambs. For the
experiment were used lambs of Mis sheep breed, which at the beginning of the
experiment were 50 days of age. The experiment lasted 42 days, so it is over
when all lambs had 92 days of age. The experiment included 60 lambs (30 male
and 30 female) were divided into three groups-20 lambs per group (control
group I and II and III experimental groups ).The results shows that the
greatest gains made lambs of group III. The difference between body weight of
group I and II was 1.62 kg and was statistically significant (P<0.01). The
difference between body weight of I and III group was 1.87 kg and was also
statistically significant (P<0.01). The difference between the body weight of
II and III groups was 0.25 kg and was not statistically significant (P>0.05).
We find that lambs of all groups consumed per kg of gain more concentrated
than hay. The difference in feed conversion between groups is not significant
(P>0.05), but lambs of groups III and II consumed per unit of gain
approximately 5g/kg and 10g/kg less concentrate than lambs of group I. Most
hay consumed by lambs of group I. The difference in hay consumption between
groups I and II is 20 g/kg. Lambs in group III consumed 30 g/kg which was
less hay than group I and less 10 g/kg than lambs of group II. The most
energy per kg of gain was consumed by lambs of group III, whereas lambs in II
group consumed the least energy.
The effect of diet selenium supplement on meat quality
Authors: Joksimovic-Todorovic M. , Davidovic V. , Sretenovic Lj.
Published: October 2012

The health of farm animals depends on many factors and they all indicate that
food plays an important role in preserving health, improving reproductive and
productive characteristics and functioning of immune system. Besides numerous
nutritional factors, antioxidants play a special role in the struggle for
survival and good health state. An oxidative stress represents a condition
induced by generating and reacting of reactive-oxygen species (ROS), and
their toxic products, on different metabolic and physiological processes. The
generating of ROS is induced by both endogenous and exogenous factors. In the
case of the organism inability to expel the causative agents of oxidative
stress they can damage cell lipids, proteins or DNA thus endangering the cell
functions. Lipid peroxidation is a process which can lead to degradation of
lipids and damage of cell membrane. Selenoenzyme glutathione peroxidase can
protect organism from peroxidative damages, decrease the level of
malondialdehyde protecting in this way a muscular tissue from oxidation.
Recent research has shown that selenium has an effect of preserving sensory
characteristics of meat and its texture, what is of great importance for
consumers. Animal tissue incorporates supplemented selenium quickly thus it
is possible to produce a selenium enriched meat and eggs. Selenium also shows
positive effects on meat quality: it reduces water loss, influence the
stability of colour, prolongs oxidative protection, and therefore the time of
its shelf life.