bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of superoxide anion generation by equine spermatozoa
Authors: Sabeur Khalida , Ball Barry A.
Published: April 2006

Objective—To identify the generation of the superoxide anion by equine spermatozoa.

Sample Population—Multiple ejaculates collected from 3 Thoroughbred stallions.

Procedures—Induced superoxide production by reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotides (NAD[P]H; ie, reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide [NADH] and reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate [NADPH]) was measured by use of a nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) reduction assay on whole spermatozoa and a cytochrome c reduction assay on isolated membrane fractions of spermatozoa. Localization of superoxide generation was determined by use of NBT cytochemistry.

Results—A dose-dependent increase in NBT reduction was found in the presence of NADPH, which was inhibited by superoxide dismutase (SOD). The flavoprotein inhibitor, diphenyleneiodonium (DPI; 5 or 15μM), significantly decreased NBT reduction. Cytochrome c reduction by plasma membranes of spermatozoa was significantly higher in the presence of NADPH than in its absence. Cytochemical staining of equine spermatozoa in the presence of NADPH and NADH revealed diaphorase labeling in the spermatozoon midpiece and head. This staining was inhibited by DPI and SOD.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results of our study indicate that superoxide generation is associated with a membrane-associated NAD(P)H oxidase present in equine spermatozoa, although mitochondrial generation of superoxide is also detected. This oxidase may play a role in cell signaling or may also contribute to cytopathic effects associated with oxidative stress in equine spermatozoa.
Effects of administration of fluids and diuretics on glomerular filtration rate, renal blood flow, and urine output in healthy awake cats
Authors: McClellan Jennifer M. , Goldstein Richard E. , Erb Hollis N. , Dykes Ned L. , Cowgill Larry D.
Published: April 2006

Objectives—To determine effects of commonly used diuretic treatments on glomerular filtration rate (GFR), renal blood flow (RBF), and urine output (UO) and compare 2 methods of GFR measurement in healthy awake cats.

Animals—8 healthy cats.

Procedure—In a randomized crossover design, cats were randomly allocated to 4 groups: control; IV administration of fluids; IV administration of fluids and mannitol; and IV administration of fluids, dopamine, and furosemide. Inulin and para-aminohippuric acid were used for determination of plasma clearance for GFR and RBF, respectively. Plasma clearance of technetium-Tc-99m-diethylenetriaminepentacetic acid (99mTc-DTPA) was also used for GFR determination.

Results—Furosemide-dopamine induced the largest UO, compared with other groups. Both mannitol and fluid therapy increased RBF, compared with the control group. Mannitol, and not fluid therapy, increased RBF, compared with furosemide-dopamine. There were significant differences in GFR values calculated from 99mTc-DTPA and inulin clearances between the 2 groups. In all groups, use of 99mTc-DTPA caused underestimation of GFR, compared with use of inulin.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In healthy awake cats, administration of furosemide-dopamine did not increase GFR or RBF despite increased UO. Fluid therapy and fluid therapy plus mannitol improved RBF. Determination of GFR by use of 99mTc-DTPA cannot always be substituted for inulin clearance when accurate measurement is required.
Effect of age on reference intervals of serum biochemical values in kittens
Authors: Levy Julie K. , Crawford P. Cynda , Werner Linda L.
Published: April 2006

Objective—To determine the effect of age on reference intervals of serum biochemical values in kittens.

Design—Prospective clinical trial.

Animals—55 kittens from 12 specific-pathogen–free queens.

Procedure—Kittens were allocated at birth into colostrum-fed (n = 27) and colostrum-deprived (28) groups. Blood was collected at birth and on days 1, 2, 4, 7, 14, 28, and 56. Serum samples were analyzed for activities of alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase, γ-glutamyltransferase, amylase, and lipase and for concentrations of albumin, total protein, bilirubin, urea nitrogen, creatinine, cholesterol, glucose, calcium, phosphorus, and triglycerides by use of an automated analyzer. Total serum solids concentrations were determined by use of refractometry. Serum IgG concentrations were quantified by use of radial immunodiffusion.

Results—For several analytes, reference intervals changed rapidly, most notably during the first few days of life. Reference intervals for alkaline phosphatase, creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase, and triglycerides were higher from birth to 8 weeks than adult reference intervals. Aspartate aminotransferase, bilirubin, urea nitrogen, and creatinine were higher than in adults at birth but were similar to or lower than adult reference intervals by 8 weeks. Compared with adult reference intervals, reference intervals for calcium and phosphorus concentrations were higher and for albumin and total protein concentrations were lower throughout the study period.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Important differences exist between reference intervals for serum biochemical values of neonatal and adult cats. Age-appropriate reference intervals should be used for accurate assessment of serum biochemical test results in cats.
Effect of transdermally administered fentanyl on minimum alveolar concentration of isoflurane in normothermic and hypothermic dogs
Authors: Wilson Diane , Pettifer Glenn R. , Hosgood Giselle
Published: April 2006

Objective—To determine whether the minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) of isoflurane was altered by transdermal administration of fentanyl in normothermic and hypothermic dogs.

Design—Randomized complete block crossover design.

Animals—6 mature healthy dogs.

Procedure—Dogs received each of 4 treatments in random order. Following induction of anesthesia, normothermia was maintained in dogs that were treated with a fentanyl patch (F-NORM) or sham patch (C-NORM), or hypothermia was maintained in dogs that were treated with a fentanyl patch (F-HYPO) or sham patch (C-HYPO). The appropriate patch was applied 24 hours prior to induction of anesthesia. Anesthesia was induced with isoflurane in oxygen; the dogs were intubated and mechanically ventilated. Target esophageal temperatures were maintained within 1°C of baseline values (normothermia) or at 34.5°C (94.1°F; hypothermia) for 1 hour prior to starting MAC determinations. Supramaximal stimulation was achieved with an electrical stimulator attached to needle electrodes placed in the buccal mucosa of the lower jaw of the dog.

Results—Mean MAC ± SEM of isoflurane during C-NORM, C-HYPO, F-NORM, and F-HYPO treatments were 1.20 ± 0.17, 0.89 ± 0.18, 0.76 ± 0.10, and 0.81 ± 0.17, respectively. The mean MAC during C-NORM was significantly higher than values for the other treatments. There was no significant difference in mean MAC among the C-HYPO, F-NORM, and F-HYPO treatments.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Data suggest that transdermal administration of fentanyl significantly reduces isoflurane requirements in normothermic dogs. The isoflurane MAC-sparing effects of transdermal fentanyl are not apparent in hypothermic dogs.
Use of internal splinting to realign a noncompliant sternum in a cat with pectus excavatum
Authors: Risselada Marije , de Rooster Hilde , Liuti Tiziana , Polis Ingeborgh , van Bree Henri
Published: April 2006

Case Description—A 5.5-month-old female domestic longhair cat was examined because of dorsal deviation of the caudal aspect of the sternum and progressively worsening dyspnea during play activities.

Clinical Findings—A diagnosis of pectus excavatum was made clinically and confirmed radiographically. The cardiac silhouette was shifted into the right hemithorax. The vertebral index (VI) and frontosagittal index (FSI), which are radiographic indices used to grade the extent of the deformity, were 5.2 and 3.0, respectively. Minimum thoracic height was 13 mm at this time.

Treatment and Outcome—The sternal malposition was corrected during surgery; for stabilization, an internal splint was provided by use of a plate that was applied to the ventral side of the sternum. Radiographic indices improved until day 85; at that time, an increase in the distance between plate and sternum was detected, and plate removal was advised. The radiographic indices improved again after plate removal. At 310 days after surgery, VI was 9.6, FSI was 1.6, and minimum thoracic height was 34 mm. No dyspnea was evident during physical examination.

Clinical Relevance—Results of treatment suggest that this technique may be useful as an alternative surgical option for cats with pectus excavatum that have a noncompliant sternum.
Association of argyrophilic nucleolar organizing regions, Ki-67, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen scores with histologic grade and survival in dogs with soft tissue sarcomas: 60 cases (1996—2002)
Authors: Ettinger Susan N. , Scase Timothy J. , Oberthaler Karen T. , Craft Diane M. , McKnight Josephine A. , Leibman Nicole F. , Charney Sarah C. , Bergman Philip J.
Published: April 2006

Objective—To determine whether argyrophilic nucleolar organizing regions (AgNORs), Ki-67, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) scores were associated with histologic grade and survival in dogs with soft tissue sarcomas (STSs).

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—60 dogs with STSs.

Procedure—Medical records were examined and histologic specimens were reviewed. Tissue specimens obtained from archival materials were used to prepare sections for histologic staining for AgNOR and immunohistochemical staining for Ki-67 and PCNA labeling. Follow-up monitoring was obtained by reevaluation or telephone conversations with referring veterinarians or owners.

Results—27 (45%) STSs were grade 1, 23 (38%) were grade 2, and 10 (17%) were grade 3. The mean and median AgNOR, Ki-67, and PCNA scores were determined, and significant positive associations among AgNOR and Ki-67 scores with histologic grade and mitotic score were detected. Fifty-four dogs had adequate follow-up examinations and were included in survival analysis and evaluation of prognostic factors. Overall median survival time was > 1,306 days. Twelve of 54 (22%) dogs died of tumor-related causes. Metastatic disease developed in 8 of 54 (15%) dogs. Results of univariate analysis indicated that increased mitotic score, increased AgNOR score, increased Ki-67 score, incomplete surgical margins, noncurative intent surgery, Ki-67 score greater than the median Ki-67 score, and AgNOR score greater than the median AgNOR score were prognostic factors for decreased survival time. Results of multivariate analysis indicated that increased AgNOR score was the only prognostic factor for decreased survival time.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that AgNORs and possibly Ki-67 should be routinely evaluated with histologic grading for STSs in dogs.
Clinical signs and clinicopathologic abnormalities in dogs with clinical spirocercosis: 39 cases (1996–2004)
Authors: Mylonakis Mathios E. , Rallis Tim , Koutinas Alexander F. , Leontides Leonidas S. , Patsikas Michail , Florou Marianna , Papadopoulos Elias , Fytianou Anna
Published: April 2006

Objective—To determine clinical signs and clinicopathologic abnormalities in dogs with naturally occurring clinical spirocercosis.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—39 dogs with spirocercosis.

Procedures—Medical records were reviewed, and information on signalment, residence (rural vs urban), owner complaints, physical examination findings, clinicopathologic abnormalities, radiographic and endoscopic findings, and concurrent systemic diseases was recorded.

Results—Hellenic hounds and mixed-breed dogs were overrepresented, compared with a group of 117 control dogs without spirocercosis that were examined because of gastrointestinal tract disease, and mean body weight of dogs with spirocercosis was significantly higher than mean body weight of control dogs. Odynophagia (34 [87%]), regurgitation (24 [62%]), and excessive salivation (14 [36%]) were the most common clinical findings. The most common radiographic abnormalities were a mass in the caudodorsal aspect of the mediastinum (15/35 [43%]) and spondylitis of the caudal thoracic vertebrae (10 [29%]). Parasitic nodules were seen during esophagoscopy in all 39 dogs. Normocytic, normochromic, nonregenerative anemia; neutrophilic leukocytosis; hyperproteinemia; and high alkaline phosphatase activity were significantly more common in dogs with spirocercosis than in a control group of 56 healthy dogs. Concurrent systemic diseases, mainly leishmaniosis, dirofilariosis, and monocytic ehrlichiosis, were documented in 14 (36%) dogs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that clinical spirocercosis occurs more often in young-adult, large-breed dogs. Nonregenerative anemia, neutrophilic leukocytosis, hyperproteinemia, and high alkaline phosphatase activity may be useful clinicopathologic indicators of this disease.
Evaluation of the effects of footwear hygiene protocols on nonspecific bacterial contamination of floor surfaces in an equine hospital
Authors: Stockton Kelly A. , Morley Paul S. , Hyatt Doreene R. , Burgess Brandy A. , Patterson Gage , Dunowska Magda , Lee David E.
Published: April 2006

Objective—To evaluate the effects of footwear hygiene protocols on bacterial contamination of floor surfaces in an equine hospital.

Design—Field trial.

Procedures—Footwear hygiene protocols evaluated included use of rubber overboots with footbaths and footmats containing a quaternary ammonium disinfectant, rubber overboots with footbaths and footmats containing a peroxygen disinfectant, and no restrictions on footwear type but mandatory use of footbaths and footmats containing a peroxygen disinfectant. Nonspecific aerobic bacterial counts were determined via 2 procedures for sample collection and bacterial enumeration (contact plates vs swabbing combined with use of spread plates), and the effects of each footwear hygiene protocol were compared.

Results—There were no consistent findings suggesting that any of the protocols were associated with differences in numbers of bacteria recovered from floor surfaces. Although there were detectable differences in numbers of bacteria recovered in association with different footwear hygiene protocols, differences in least square mean bacterial counts did not appear to be clinically relevant (ie, were < 1 log10).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Although cleaning and disinfection of footwear are important aids in reducing the risk of nosocomial transmission of infectious agents in veterinary hospitals, the numbers of aerobic bacteria recovered from floor surfaces were not affected by use of rubber overboots or the types of disinfectant used in this study. Further study is warranted to evaluate the usefulness of footwear hygiene practices relative to their efficacy for reducing transmission of specific pathogens or decreasing nosocomial disease risk.
Evaluation of antimicrobial susceptibility patterns in Campylobacter spp isolated from dairy cattle and farms managed organically and conventionally in the midwestern and northeastern United States
Authors: Halbert Lisa W. , Kaneene John B. , Ruegg Pamela L. , Warnick Lorin D. , Wells Scott J. , Mansfield Linda S. , Fossler Charles P. , Campbell Amy M. , Geiger-Zwald Angela M.
Published: April 2006

Objective—To describe antimicrobial susceptibility patterns in Campylobacter spp isolated from dairy cattle and farms managed organically and conventionally in the midwestern and northeastern United States.

Design—Longitudinal study.

Sample Population—128 farms.

Procedure—Samples and data were collected every 2 months from August 2000 to October 2001. Fecal samples were collected from calves and cows. Milk samples were obtained from the bulk tank and milk line filters. Environmental samples were obtained from a water source, feed bunks of lactating cows, and cattle housing areas. Campylobacter identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing were performed at a central laboratory by use of microbroth dilution with 2 customized antimicrobial susceptibility panels.

Results—460 and 1,570 Campylobacter isolates were obtained from organic and conventional dairy farms, respectively. Most isolates from both farm types were susceptible to most antimicrobial agents tested, and antimicrobial susceptibility of conventional dairy isolates was decreased, compared with organic dairy isolates. Low proportions of isolates resistant to ampicillin (< 10%) and moderate proportions resistant (30% to 60%) to kanamycin, sulfamethoxazole, and tetracycline were observed on both farm types. The proportion of isolates resistant to tetracycline was higher for conventional than organic farms.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Campylobacter isolates from dairy cattle and farms managed organically and conventionally had similar patterns of antimicrobial resistance; the proportion of resistant isolates was higher for conventional than organic farms.
Immunologic responses and reproductive outcomes following exposure to wild-type or attenuated porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus in swine under field conditions
Authors: Lowe James F. , Zuckermann Federico A. , Firkins Lawrence D. , Schnitzlein William M. , Goldberg Tony L.
Published: April 2006

Objective—To compare immunologic responses and reproductive outcomes in sows housed under field conditions following controlled exposure to a wild-type strain of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV strain WTV) or vaccination with a modified-live virus (MLV) vaccine.

Design—Randomized controlled trial.

Animals—30 PRRSV-naïve 10-week-old female pigs.

Procedure—Humoral and cell-mediated immune responses were monitored while pigs were held in isolation for 84 days after inoculation with the WTV strain (n = 10), inoculation with the WTV strain and 42 days later vaccination with a killed-virus vaccine (10), or vaccination with an MLV vaccine (10). Reproductive outcomes were measured after pigs were released into the farm herd.

Results—Inoculation with the WTV strain, regardless of whether a killed-virus vaccine was subsequently administered, elicited faster and more substantial production of strain-specific neutralizing antibodies, as well as a more rapid generation of interferon-γ secreting cells, than did vaccination with the MLV vaccine. Despite the enhanced immune responses in pigs inoculated with the WTV strain, animals vaccinated with the MLV vaccine produced a mean of 2.45 more pigs than did sows exposed to the WTV strain, mainly because of a lower rate for failure to conceive.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that current assays of immunity to PRRSV correlate only imperfectly with degree of clinical protection and that the practice of controlled exposure of sows to a circulating PRRSV strain should be reconsidered in light of negative clinical outcomes.
Essential oil terpenless by extraction using organic solvents or ionic liquids
Authors: Arce Alberto , Marchiaro Alicia , Rodríguez Oscar , Soto Ana
Published: March 2006

Ionic liquids are gaining attention as potential substitutes for classic organic solvents in many different applications, especially as reaction media and separation agents. Search for an effective method for essential oils terpenless is necessary. Organic solvents are volatile substances, which contribute to environmental pollution and lead to important operating costs due to losses by evaporation. Thus, use of a green‐solvent would avoid those difficulties. In this work, the possibility of using two organic solvents and an ionic liquid to carry out the citrus essential oil deterpenation is studied and the obtained results are compared. Citrus essential oil is simulated as a mixture of limonene and linalool; the solvents studied are 2‐butene‐1,4‐diol, ethylene glycol, and the 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium methanesulfonate ionic liquid; and LLE data for the three ternary systems are reported. Data correlation is done by means of the NRTL equation. Solvent selection is studied by means of the solute distribution ratio and the selectivity, and compared to other solvents from the literature. The ionic liquid presents the highest selectivity, but close to other organic solvents, and results for solute distribution ratio depend on concentration range of extraction. Extraction process simulations using these solvents are carried out and the results are shown for comparison. Despite the fact that the ionic liquid does not get the highest linalool recovery, it provides the highest purity. © 2006 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2006
Mixing of shear‐thinning fluids with yield stress in stirred tanks
Authors: Arratia P. E. , Kukura J. , Lacombe J. , Muzzio F. J.
Published: March 2006

Mixing of shear‐thinning fluids with yield stress is investigated in a three‐dimensional (3‐D) flow both in experiments and in simulations. Experiments are conducted in a stirred tank using tracer visualization and velocity measurements. Bulk flow visualization shows the familiar cavern formation around the impeller with stagnant zones surrounding it. Detailed flow visualization inside caverns reveals the main ingredients of chaotic flow: lobe formation, stretching, folding, and self‐similar mixing patterns. For multiple impeller systems, however, we find strong compartmentalization characterized by robust segregation between adjacent caverns, hindering mixing performance. Mixing efficiency is enhanced by moving the shaft off‐center, which breaks spatial symmetry. The displacement of the shaft from the tank centerline has a beneficial effect on manifold structure: segregated regions are destroyed, separatrices are eliminated, and axial circulation is improved. Numerical simulations are performed by solving the incompressible Reynolds Averaged Navier Stokes equation with a Galerkin Least‐Squares finite‐element formulation and a macroscopic rheological model. Simulations are able to capture the main features of the flow and are used to investigate stretching statistics and scale behavior. © 2006 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2006
Association of AKT1 haplotype with the risk of schizophrenia in Iranian population
Authors: Bajestan Sepideh N. , Sabouri Amir H. , Nakamura Masayuki , Takashima Hiroshi , Keikhaee Mohammad R. , Behdani Fatemeh , Fayyazi Mohammad R. , Sargolzaee Mohammad R. , Bajestan Mahboobeh N. , Sabouri Zahra , Khayami Esmaeil , Haghighi Sima , Hashemi Susan B. , Eiraku Nobutaka , Tufani Hamid , Najmabadi Hossein , Arimura Kimiyoshi , Sano Akira , Osame Mitsuhiro
Published: March 2006

AKT‐glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β) signaling is a target of lithium and has been implicated in the pathogenesis of mood disorders and schizophrenia. AKT1 protein level is decreased in the peripheral lymphocytes and brains of schizophrenic patients. The SNP2/3/4 TCG haplotype of AKT1 was associated with schizophrenia in patients with Northern European origin. In the present study, we genotyped five single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP1–5) of AKT1 gene according to the original study in Iranians comprising of 321 schizophrenic patients and 383 controls, all residing in Mashhad city, Northeastern Iran. Haplotype analysis showed that the frequency of a five‐SNP haplotype (AGCAG) was significantly higher in schizophrenic patients (0.068) than that of controls (0.034) (P = 0.03 after Bonferroni correction, OR = 2.04, CI = 1.2–3.4). In stratified analysis by schizophrenia subtypes, the frequency of the same haplotype was significantly higher in disorganized subtype (n = 78, frequency of haplotype=0.081) when compared with normal controls (P = 0.04 after Bonferroni correction, OR = 2.59, CI = 1.3–5.2). Our findings did not confirm the association of AKT1 SNP2/3/4 TCG haplotype with the risk of schizophrenia as reported in the original study but showed the evidence of association with a different haplotype, AKT1 five‐SNP AGCAG haplotype, with the risk of schizophrenia in Iranian population. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A family‐based study of Indian subjects from Kolkata reveals allelic association of the serotonin transporter intron‐2 (STin2) polymorphism and attention‐deficit‐hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Authors: Banerjee Emili , Sinha Swagata , Chatterjee Anindita , Gangopadhyay Prasanta Kumar , Singh Manoranjan , Nandagopal Krishnadas
Published: March 2006

Serotonin transporter (SLC6A4) polymorphisms are variously implicated in mediating susceptibility to attention‐deficit‐hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a highly heritable and heterogeneous disorder with onset in childhood. Since there has been no survey in this regard from India, a sample of 56 ADHD cases and 174 healthy individuals from Kolkata were genotyped for the SLC6A4 promoter (5‐HTTLPR) and intron‐2 (STin2) polymorphisms. We report that the observed distribution of allele frequencies is consonant with that expected as per Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium proportions. Pair‐wise combination of alleles comprising the 5‐HTTLPR and STin2 polymorphic systems exhibit significant (χ2 = 14.74, df = 1; P = 0.0001) linkage disequilibrium of low magnitude (D' = 0.269). The estimates of haplotype‐based haplotype relative risk (HHRR) (χ2 = 4.92, P = 0.027; RR = 1.47; 95% CI = 1.01–2.13) and transmission disequilibrium test (TDT) statistics (χ2 = 7.00, P = 0.008; OR = 3.00; 95% CI = 1.53–5.90) using a family‐based study design, indicate significant preferential transmission of the STin2.12 (A12) allele to ADHD cases. Maternal inheritance of the A12 allele is significant in terms of the HHRR (χ2 = 6.53, P = 0.011; RR = 2.00; 95% CI = 1.08–3.72) and TDT (χ2 = 8.07, P = 0.005; OR = 6.50; 95% CI = 1.76–23.98) suggesting a novel role for epigenetic mechanisms in the etiology of ADHD. Similar analyses yielded no evidence of association between the 5‐HTTLPR polymorphism and ADHD. Studies including additional polymorphic markers, ADHD subjects and other ethnic groups are warranted to further substantiate the present findings. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Preliminary evidence for an association between a dopamine D3 receptor gene variant and obsessive‐compulsive personality disorder in patients with major depression
Authors: Light Katrina J. , Joyce Peter R. , Luty Suzanne E. , Mulder Roger T. , Frampton Christropher M.A. , Joyce Laura R.M. , Miller Allison L. , Kennedy Martin A.
Published: March 2006

We have previously reported that the Ser9Gly dopamine D3 receptor (DRD3) polymorphism was associated with increased rates of obsessive‐compulsive personality disorder (OCPD) symptomology. We tested the replicability of this association within a further two independent groups of individuals with a history of depression, from a clinical sample (n = 149) and a family study (n = 213). The data from the replication samples and the original sample, within which the association was found, were compiled within a meta‐analysis. Although the independent samples did not replicate the original finding, the meta‐analysis elucidated significant evidence supporting the association. An individual with Gly/Gly genotype is 2.4 (P = 0.017) times more likely to be diagnosed with OCPD. Male gender was also found to be a significant predictor of OCPD diagnosis (OR = 2.82, P = 0.001). An exploration of an association of DRD3 with Axis I anxiety disorder diagnoses and Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI) traits, in particular persistence, revealed no support for an association. We conclude that DRD3 may contribute to the development of OCPD. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Weight gain associated with the α2a‐adrenergic receptor −1291 C/G polymorphism and olanzapine treatment
Authors: Park Young‐Min , Chung Young‐Cho , Lee Seung‐Hwan , Lee Kang‐Joon , Kim Hyun , Byun Young‐Chan , Lim Se‐Won , Paik Jong‐Woo , Lee Heon‐Jeong
Published: March 2006

Weight gain can be an adverse effect of antipsychotics and is an important factor for long‐term health and treatment compliance. Many reports have shown that the α2‐adrenergic receptor may be related to eating behaviors or lipolytic activities, both associated with body weight change. We hypothesized that there might be a relationship between the α2a‐adrenergic receptor −1291 C/G polymorphism and olanzapine‐induced weight gain. A group of 62 Korean schizophrenic patients participated in a study; weight and height measurements were obtained prior to starting olanzapine and measured again after long‐term treatment. Genotyping for the −1291 C/G polymorphism was performed on all participants. Body weight changes from baseline to endpoint were significantly associated with genotypes (P = 0.028). The frequency of the G allele was significantly higher in subjects who had severe weight gain (defined as a more than 10% weight gain from baseline) compared to subjects who did not have extreme weight gain (less than 10% weight gain from baseline) (X2 = 6.120, P = 0.013; OR = 2.58, 95% CI = 1.21–5.51). Therefore, the findings from this study support a relationship between the −1291 C/G polymorphism of the α2a‐adrenergic receptor and weight gain in Korean schizophrenic patients receiving olanzapine treatment. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Haplotype analysis of single nucleotide polymorphisms in VEGF gene for vascular dementia
Authors: Kim Younyoung , Nam Yu Jin , Lee Chaeyoung
Published: March 2006

A case‐control study was performed to identify single nucleotide variants of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) gene associated with vascular dementia. Seven SNPs in promoter, 5′‐UTR, 3′‐UTR, and introns of VEGF gene were identified in 24 Koreans. Three of them, −1154G/A, −7C/T, and 13553C/T, were selected based on allele frequency and linkage disequilibrium (LD), and genotyped in 207 vascular dementia patients and 207 control subjects. Significant association with vascular dementia was not shown (P > 0.05) in the alleles and genotypes of single locus. Subsequent analysis of composing VEGF risk haplotypes associated with vascular dementia was performed with maximum likelihood estimates of their possible haplotypes employing the expectation‐maximization (EM) algorithm. Of three‐locus haplotypes, only GTC was significantly associated with vascular dementia, conferring a risk of 1.87 (P < 0.05). Of two‐locus haplotypes, the risk was observed with the nested forms of the risk haplotype GTC, that is, GT at the loci −1154G/A and −7C/T and TC at the loci −7C/T and 13553C/T (P < 0.05). Our findings suggested some interaction among −1154G/A, −7C/T, and 13553C/T variants in the determination of risk for vascular dementia. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Is there an alternative to the full‐leg radiograph for determining knee joint alignment in osteoarthritis?
Authors: Hinman Rana S. , May Rachel L. , Crossley Kay M.
Published: March 2006

Objective

To assess the concurrent validity of alternative measures of frontal plane knee alignment, namely the radiographic anatomic axis and 5 clinical measures, in medial compartment knee osteoarthritis (OA) as compared with the mechanical axis on radiograph.

Methods

Forty individuals (mean ± SD age 64.7 ± 9.4 years) with symptomatic medial knee OA participated. Knee alignment was measured according to the following methods: lower‐limb mechanical axis on radiograph, lower‐limb anatomic axis on radiograph, visual observation, distance between medial knee joint lines or medial malleoli using a calliper, distance between a plumb line and medial knee joint line or malleolus using a calliper, tibial alignment using a gravity inclinometer, and lower‐limb alignment using a goniometer. Data were analyzed using Pearson's correlation coefficient or Spearman's rho correlation coefficient and simple linear regression.

Results

The anatomic axis best correlated with the mechanical axis (r = 0.88), followed closely by the inclinometer method (r = 0.80). Other clinical measures of alignment that were significantly associated with the mechanical axis were the calliper method, the plumb‐line method, and visual observation (r = 0.76, 0.71, and −0.52, respectively). However, the goniometer method failed to correlate.

Conclusion

The anatomic axis on radiograph and the inclinometer method appear to be valid alternatives to the mechanical axis on full‐leg radiograph for determining frontal plane knee alignment in medial knee OA. These alternative methods of measuring knee alignment may increase the assessment of this parameter by clinicians and researchers alike, given that malalignment is an important indicator of disease progression and treatment outcome.
Different patterns of illness‐related interaction in couples coping with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Mann Cindy , Dieppe Paul
Published: March 2006

Objective

To learn more about the effect of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) on couples' relationships and how couples manage the illness within their dyad.

Methods

Eight women with RA (ages 31–60 years) and their partners, and 4 men with RA (ages 43–75 years) and their partners were recruited from the rheumatology case load of a hospital in the UK. Interpretative phenomenologic analysis was used for data collection and analysis. During semistructured interviews, couples were asked about the effect of RA on their lives and relationship.

Results

This study found clear differences in the way couples managed the illness of one partner and in the nature of their illness‐related interactions. Based on these differences, the couples were allocated to 1 of 3 groups: the shared illness management group (SIM), the ill partner in charge group (IPIC), or the conflict over management group (COM). In the SIM group, both partners attended appointments and shared decisions about illness management. In the IPIC group, the ill person claimed and was conceded the right to make autonomous decisions about illness management. In the COM group, the well partner was dissatisfied with the way the ill person was managing the illness, and conflict resulted.

Conclusion

Heterogeneity exists in the intradyad management of RA. Identifying each couple's style of illness management could make medical consultations and education programs more responsive to the needs and preferences of patients and their partners. Dissatisfaction of either partner with illness management and resulting conflict could be addressed, with benefits for both partners and possible improvement in disease management.
Extent of occupational hand use among persons with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Allaire Saralynn , Wolfe Frederick , Niu Jingbo , Baker Nancy , Michaud Kaleb , Lavalley Michael
Published: March 2006

Objective

Occupational hand use is increasing due to increased computer use and could place persons with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) at risk for work disability. Although hand involvement in RA is typical, there is little information about occupational hand use in relation to RA. Study objectives were to describe the extent of occupational hand use by persons with RA; the types of jobs that require extensive hand use; the relationship between occupational hand use and joint pain; and the extent of occupational hand use among persons with shorter versus longer disease duration.

Methods

Cross‐sectional survey data from 2,761 employed participants with RA from a US national cohort were used. Extent of occupational hand use was measured by the hand‐use item from a job physical demand scale used in prior RA studies. Analyses included descriptive statistics and chi‐square tests.

Results

The mean age was 50.6 years, 78.5% were women, 91.8% were white, and 68.8% had more than a high school education. Eighty‐three percent of participants reported extensive occupational hand use. Large portions of participants in all types of jobs reported extensive hand use, 92% with administrative support jobs and 69% with operator/laborer jobs. Participants with extensive occupational hand use were more likely to have hand joint pain than those with moderate hand use (66% versus 58%; P = 0.004). Extensive hand use did not vary by disease duration (83% and 84% in participants with ≤15 and >15 years' duration, respectively).

Conclusion

Extensive occupational hand use was ubiquitous among employed persons with RA and was associated with greater hand pain.
Quality of osteoarthritis care for community‐dwelling older adults
Authors: Ganz David A. , Chang John T. , Roth Carol P. , Guan Min , Kamberg Caren J. , Niu Fang , Reuben David B. , Shekelle Paul G. , Wenger Neil S. , Maclean Catherine H.
Published: March 2006

Objective

To describe the quality of osteoarthritis care provided to community‐dwelling elderly patients and to characterize arthritis‐related function in these patients.

Methods

Two medical groups in the western United States participated in a practice‐redesign intervention targeted at falls and mobility disorders, incontinence, and cognitive impairment, but not osteoarthritis. From 339 individuals reporting a diagnosis of arthritis, we collected information on demographics, functional status, and quality of care via patient interviews and mailed questionnaires. Eight quality indicators measured osteoarthritis care: 4 indicators measuring the provision of effective osteoarthritis care (osteoarthritis treatment indicators) and 4 measuring the provision of safe osteoarthritis care (medication safety indicators).

Results

The mean ± SD Short Form 12 physical component summary score was 35 ± 11 points, indicating a physically frail population. The overall indicator pass rate was 57.0% (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 53.9–60.2). Pass rates were higher for indicators of osteoarthritis treatment (63.5%, 95% CI 59.8–67.2) than for indicators of medication safety (43.8%, 95% CI 38.2–49.4). Patients with hip or knee pain had mean ± SD Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index pain, stiffness, and function scores of 6.0 ± 4.0, 3.1 ± 1.7, and 25 ± 12 points, respectively.

Conclusion

Quality of osteoarthritis care for older adults is suboptimal, particularly with regard to medication safety. Given the high prevalence of osteoarthritis in older age groups, the population impact of any improvement in quality would be substantial. Quality improvement efforts for osteoarthritis should target appropriate use of and counseling regarding medications, as well as underuse of efficacious therapy for osteoarthritis.
Health‐related quality of life in adolescents with juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Authors: Shaw K. L. , Southwood T. R. , Duffy C. M. , McDonagh J. E.
Published: March 2006

Objective

To describe the health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) of adolescents with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), and to examine the usefulness of the Juvenile Arthritis Quality of Life Questionnaire (JAQQ) in a UK context. It was hypothesized that HRQOL would decrease with worsening disease and disability.

Methods

Patients with JIA ages 11, 14, and 17 years were recruited from 10 major rheumatology centers. HRQOL was measured using the JAQQ. Other data were core outcome variables including the Childhood Health Assessment Questionnaire, demographic characteristics, arthritis‐related knowledge, and satisfaction with health care.

Results

Questionnaires were completed by 308 adolescents. One‐fifth had persistent oligoarthritis. Median disease duration was 5.7 years (range <1–16 years). The JAQQ was shown to have good psychometric properties when used in the UK, but was not without limitations. HRQOL of adolescents with JIA was less than optimal, particularly in the domains of gross motor and systemic functioning. Items most frequently rated as adolescents' biggest psychological problems were “felt frustrated” and “felt depressed,” rated by 30.2% and 23.4%, respectively. These were particularly problematic for the 17‐year‐olds, with 39% reporting frustration as one of their biggest problems and 63.6% reporting depression. Variation in the adolescent JAQQ scores was explained by functional disability, pain, and disease activity.

Conclusion

JIA can have a significant adverse effect on the HRQOL of adolescents. The JAQQ is a useful tool to assess the HRQOL of UK adolescents with JIA, but there is need for improved measures that incorporate developmentally appropriate issues.
How “bad” does the pain have to be? A qualitative study examining adherence to pain medication in older adults with osteoarthritis
Authors: Sale Joanna E. M. , Gignac Monique , Hawker Gillian
Published: March 2006

Objective

To explore the experience of adherence to pain medication in older adults with osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

Individuals were recruited from an existing cohort (n = 1,300) of persons with disabling hip and knee OA. Twenty‐seven individuals who reported previous physician visits for their arthritis, spoke English, were Toronto residents, and were receptive to in‐depth interviews were approached by the cohort telephone interviewer to discuss their experiences with prescribed painkillers for OA. Semistructured face‐to‐face interviews were conducted by a qualitative researcher in participants' homes.

Results

Nineteen adults (10 women, 9 men) ages 67–92 years were interviewed for 1–3 hours. Participants varied in their socioeconomic status and education levels. Most had comorbidities, such as heart disease and diabetes, for which they were also being treated. Findings indicated that adherence to pain medication differed from that of other prescribed medications. Participants were reluctant to take painkillers, and when they did, they generally took them at a lower dose or frequency than prescribed. This behavior did not reflect their recommendations for others, who they expected to be treated appropriately for pain and to adhere to pain medication. Perceptions and attitudes to pain played an integral role in participants' adherence to painkillers. Despite obvious physical limitations, participants minimized their pain and claimed to have a high pain tolerance.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that reevaluation of the prescription of pain medication for OA is warranted and that the effectiveness of pain management in OA needs to account for adherence behavior in older adults.
Childbearing decisions and family size among women with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Katz Patricia P.
Published: March 2006

Objective

To estimate childbearing trends relative to age and stage of family development and to report on childbearing decisions among women with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

Information about childbearing history and decisions was collected through structured telephone interviews with an existing cohort of married women with RA (n = 411), and was examined according to women's age at RA diagnosis and when RA was diagnosed relative to when children were born.

Results

Almost all women (91.2%) reported at least 1 pregnancy; the majority (85.4%) reported at least 1 live birth. The odds of any pregnancy or a live birth were not significantly different according to age at diagnosis; however, women diagnosed at age ≤18 had fewer pregnancies and fewer children. Similarly, women diagnosed with RA prior to the birth of their first child had the fewest pregnancies and children. Few women (8%) reported being advised to limit family size, although ∼20% reported that RA had affected their childbearing decisions. Being advised to limit family size was associated with fewer pregnancies and fewer children (P < 0.0001). Consideration of RA in childbearing decisions was more common among women diagnosed with RA at an early age. Women who reported that RA affected childbearing decisions were not less likely to have any pregnancy or any children, but had significantly fewer pregnancies and children.

Conclusion

Lower birth rates among women with RA may at least in part reflect choices by women to limit family sizes. Future research into the link between RA and fertility should take women's childbearing choices into account.
Catastrophizing and pain in arthritis, fibromyalgia, and other rheumatic diseases
Authors: Edwards Robert R. , Bingham Clifton O. , Bathon Joan , Haythornthwaite Jennifer A.
Published: March 2006

Objective

Pain is among the most frequently reported, bothersome, and disabling symptoms described by patients with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, and other musculoskeletal conditions. This review describes a growing body of literature relating catastrophizing, a set of cognitive and emotional processes encompassing magnification of pain‐related stimuli, feelings of helplessness, and a generally pessimistic orientation, to the experience of pain and pain‐related sequelae across several rheumatic diseases.

Methods

We reviewed published articles in which pain‐related catastrophizing was assessed in the context of one or more rheumatic conditions. Because much of the available information on catastrophizing is derived from the more general chronic pain literature, seminal studies in other disease states were also considered.

Results

Catastrophizing is positively related, in both cross‐sectional and prospective studies across different musculoskeletal conditions, to the reported severity of pain, affective distress, muscle and joint tenderness, pain‐related disability, poor outcomes of pain treatment, and, potentially, to inflammatory disease activity. Moreover, these associations generally persist after controlling for symptoms of depression. There appear to be multiple mechanisms by which catastrophizing exerts its harmful effects, from maladaptive influences on the social environment to direct amplification of the central nervous system's processing of pain.

Conclusion

Catastrophizing is a critically important variable in understanding the experience of pain in rheumatologic disorders as well as other chronic pain conditions. Pain‐related catastrophizing may be an important target for both psychosocial and pharmacologic treatment of pain.
Untersuchungen zum Durchstanzverhalten von Stahlbetonfundamenten
Authors: Hegger Josef , Ricker Marcus , Ulke Bernd , Ziegler Martin
Published: March 2006

Die nach verschiedenen internationalen Normen ermittelten Durchstanzwiderstände für Fundamente differieren zum Teil erheblich. Der Anteil der Bodenreaktionskraft, der von der einwirkenden Querkraft abgezogen werden darf, wird unterschiedlich festgelegt. Ziel der Untersuchungen war die Entwicklung eines konsistenten Bemessungsansatzes zum Durchstanzen von Fundamenten unter Berücksichtigung der Boden‐Bauwerk‐Interaktion. Fünf eigene Durchstanzversuche an Stahlbetonfundamenten auf realem Boden und nichtlineare Finite‐Elemente‐Simulationen bestätigen, daß die Versagensrisse deutlich steiler verlaufen als bei vergleichbaren Versuchen an Flachdecken und eine signifikante Abhängigkeit des Durchstanzwiderstands von der Schubschlankheit besteht. Basierend auf den so gewonnenen Erkenntnissen und einer Versuchsdatenbank wird ein empirischer Bemessungsansatz auf Grundlage der Durchstanzgleichung in DIN 1045‐1 entwickelt.
Vereinfachte, wirklichkeitsnahe Ermittlung der Durchbiegung von Stahlbetonträgern unter Kriechbeanspruchung
Authors: Bockhold Jörg , Pfister Tobias
Published: March 2006

Es wird ein auf der Annahme der Affinität von Momenten‐ und Krümmungsfunktion basierendes Berechnungsverfahren zur vereinfachten, überschlägigen Abschätzung der Durchbiegung von Stahlbetonträgern unter Gebrauchslasten präsentiert. Der Einfluß der Kriechverformungen wird dabei wirklichkeitsnah erfaßt, so daß eine realistische Verformungsberechnung mit minimalem Berechnungsaufwand gelingt.
Die Abnahme von Tiefgaragen aus technischer Sicht
Authors: Schöppel Klaus
Published: March 2006

Die Praxis zeigt, daß in Tiefgaragen infolge mangelhafter Planung und Ausführung ein erhebliches Schadenspotential vorliegt. Die Schäden infolge dieser Mängel treten augenscheinlich erkennbar erst nach einigen Jahren – meist nach Ablauf der Gewährleistung – auf. Daher ist eine sorgfältige Kontrolle bei der Abnahme von Tiefgaragen notwendig, um derartige Mängel frühzeitig feststellen zu können. Nachfolgend werden die Schäden in Tiefgaragen erläutert und darauf aufbauend die bei Abnahme zu kontrollierenden Problempunkte angeführt. Die Vorgehensweise bei der Abnahme von Tiefgaragen wird anhand dieser Problempunkte dargestellt. Diese Veröffentlichung basiert auf einem Vortrag am 9. Dingolfinger Baufachtag 2005.