bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Theory of Mind (TOM) and People with Learning Disabilities: The Effects of a Training Package
Authors: Ashcroft Anton , Jervis Nicola , Roberts Chris
Published: March 2010

Sixteen adults from a local day centre were assessed using a first‐order representation of false‐belief task (Sally‐Ann experiment) for their ‘theory of mind’ abilities (the ability to correctly reason about another's mental state). It was found that only 12.5% of participants could perform this task correctly. The study then went on to establish whether this ability could be trained, retrained and/or transferred. The results showed a significant improvement in participants' performance through training, this improvement was maintained over time and participants appeared to transfer this ability to a similar task. It was concluded that this research puts further doubt on an absence/impaired theory of mind being unique to autism. Implications were discussed in terms of social interaction and people with intellectual disabilities.
Mother‐Professional Agreement about Developmental Delay in Preschool Children: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Glaun Daphne E. , Cole Kathleen E. , Reddihough Dinah S.
Published: March 2010

Current practice prescribes that parents play an integral part in the assessment and management of their preschool child with suspected developmental delay. Multidisciplinary assessment aims to enhance parents' understanding of the nature and extent of the delay with a view to promoting parent‐professional agreement about interventions. Serious mismatches between parents and therapists in their judgements of developmental status are potentially important markers of families at risk of sub‐optimal use of intervention services. This study compared mothers' perceptions of their child's development with the results of standardised tests in key domains. A 14 item questionnaire, constructed to measure mothers' perceptions of current and future development, was administered pre‐ and post‐developmental assessment. Preliminary results suggest that mothers recognised the existence of delayed development, but underestimated its severity. Levels of congruence varied with domain. Predictions about future development revealed that most mothers interpreted the delay as temporary. Implications for clinical practice are discussed.
Is There a ‘Hidden’ Population of Adults with Intellectual Disabilities? Evidence from a Follow‐Up Study
Authors: May David , Hogg James
Published: March 2010

Data from a follow‐up study of a cohort of people with intellectual disabilities who entered adult services on school‐leaving in the late 1960s (N=73) and are now in middle age is examined for evidence of unmet need. Forty‐six of the 65 surviving members of the cohort were continuing to receive specialist services for people with intellectual disabilities. Three had moved out of the region and could not be traced. The rest had a somewhat more ambiguous and uncertain status, although only three were no longer known to social work or NHS agencies. Those no longer receiving specialist services were significantly more intellectually and socially able than those continuing in services. It is concluded that there is no evidence of any ‘hidden’ population, and that the more arms‐length relationship with services that a minority of the cohort has been able to negotiate is best seen as a continuation of a process of reclassification begun at school‐leaving, although the change in public identity involved in such cases is limited and equivocal. The possibility that a ‘hidden’ population is to be found among older cohorts is considered, and the implications for services and research briefly discussed.
Assessment of Anger in People With Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Rose John , West Chris
Published: March 2010

This paper examines the link between a self‐report Anger Inventory (Benson & Ivins, 1992) and incidents of challenging behaviour by people with intellectual disabilities. Records of challenging behaviour were kept by significant others while the people with intellectual disabilities themselves were asked to complete the Anger Inventory on a number of different occasions. The inventory was used to evaluate and follow up the impact of an anger management group, and in some cases other associated interventions. Data are presented on five individuals for time periods of between two and three years. Visual inspection of the data suggests a degree of correspondence between the levels of challenging behaviour reported by staff and scores reported on the Anger Inventory by participants and this relationship is confirmed statistically. The implications of these results are discussed.
The Effects of Training on Emotion Recognition Skills for Adults with an Intellectual Disability
Authors: Rydin‐Orwin Tracy , Drake Jo , Bratt Andrew
Published: March 2010

People with intellectual disabilities have long been associated with having a poor recognition of emotion from facial and other cues. It has been suggested that intervention by social skills training may improve their abilities (McAlpine et al., 1991). This proposition is investigated here. Participants were shown video clips depicting five common emotional states and their ability to label each was recorded. A comparison task of a similar nature but not involving emotion recognition was also used. Participants were matched on their British Picture Vocabulary Scale (BPVS) scores and randomly assigned to experimental or control groups. The experimental group received two training sessions using similar video clips. Finally both groups were re‐tested on the original clips. Using a two‐way, between‐subjects analysis of covariance, a significant improvement with training was found for the emotion‐recognition task (F (1,5) = 0.79, p < 0.01). A non‐significant increase was recorded for the comparison task (F (1,5) = 1.57, p > 0.05). A significant correlation (r = 0.755) was noted between the BPVS scores and subjects' pre‐intervention scores on the emotion‐recognition task.
The Quality of Residential and Day Services for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities in Eight Local Authorities in England: Objective Data Gained in Support of a Social Services Inspectorate Inspection
Authors: Felce David , Lowe Kathy , Perry Jonathan , Jones Edwin , Baxter Helen , Bowley Clare
Published: March 2010

Objective data on the quality of 15 residential homes and 17 day centres were collected as part of a Social Services Inspecorate inspection of services for adults with learning disabilities in eight local authorities in England. A sample of 56 residents was drawn from the former and information collected on their behavioural characteristics, social and community integration, autonomy, receipt of attention and assistance from staff, and participation in activity. The activity timetables of the latter were analysed to determine their emphases. Representative group activities taking place within the centres were observed and user:staff ratios, user receipt of attention from staff and user engagement in activity recorded. Findings from the residential settings demonstrated that the frequency of community integration, the extent of autonomy and the level of activity were associated with resident ability. However, there was a lack of association between staff:resident interaction and resident needs for support. Given the ranges on the quality of life indicators investigated, people with more severe disabilities were found to lead segregated and under occupied existences. These findings add weight to the need to be more precise about the determinants of quality and, in particular, the role and performance of staff. A cluster analysis of day centres based on their activity distributions produced two clusters in common with an earlier Welsh survey; centres with an emphasis on ‘recreation and personal development’ or ‘recreation’. The English sample, however, had a lesser emphasis on both contract work and open employment and contained centres which had a greater representation of personal development and education. Developing consensus on the functions and goals of day services is required if day service reform is to lead to the most effective organisational and operational arrangements.
Development and Behaviour in Genetic Syndromes: Rubinstein‐Taybi Syndrome
Authors: Boer Harm , Langton John , Clarke David
Published: March 2010

Development and behaviour was investigated in a sample of 44 children and adults with Rubinstein—Taybi syndrome (RTS) using the Society for the Study of Behavioural Phenotypes Postal Questionnaire. There were few differences between males and females. Children and adults were compared. Most of the RTS adults communicated using speech but expressive speech was limited. Repetitive speech and repetitive movements, verbal abuse and over‐friendliness with strangers were reported. Mood abnormalities and problems with self‐injury were reported for about half the people surveyed. Toilet training appeared to take a long time, but the majority of adults surveyed were fully continent.
Staff Characteristics, Working Conditions and Outcomes Amongst Staff in Services for People with Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Hatton Chris , Rivers Morna , Emerson Eric , Kiernan Chris , Reeves David , Alborz Alison , Mason Heidi , Mason Linda
Published: March 2010

A survey of 512 staff working in UK services for people with intellectual disabilities was conducted. Descriptive findings regarding staff characteristics, working conditions and a range of staff outcomes are reported. The majority of staff were in their thirties, female, and married or living as married, and almost half of staff had dependants. Almost all the staff in this survey were white. On average, staff had spent approximately eight and a half years working in services for people with intellectual disabilities, and approximately three and a half years working in their current work location. Approximately one‐sixth of staff were working on a fixed‐term contract. Almost two‐thirds of staff were contracted to work full‐time, although nearly two‐fifths of staff reported working longer than their contracted hours.

Regarding staff outcomes, almost one‐third of staff reported high levels of distress indicative of mental health problems, a proportion similar to that found in previous UK research but a higher proportion than NHS staff, employed adults or adults generally. This higher distress was reflected in poorer self‐reported health, greater self‐reported stress or pressure, and greater cigarette consumption compared to English adults generally. Just over half the staff had taken sick leave in the past six months, and approximately one‐eighth of staff had applied for another job in the past three months. The implications for services of the findings are briefly discussed.
Serotonin 5‐HT2Creceptor protein expression is enriched in synaptosomal and post‐synaptic compartments of rat cortex
Authors: Anastasio Noelle C. , Lanfranco Maria Fe , Bubar Marcy J. , Seitz Patricia K. , Stutz Sonja J. , McGinnis Andrew G. , Watson Cheryl S. , Cunningham Kathryn A.
Published: March 2010

J. Neurochem.(2010)113, 1504–1515.

The action of serotonin (5‐HT) at the 5‐HT2Creceptor (5‐HT2CR) in cerebral cortex is emerging as a candidate modulator of neural processes that mediate core phenotypic facets of several psychiatric and neurological disorders. However, our understanding of the neurobiology of the cortical 5‐HT2CR protein complex is currently limited. The goal of the present study was to explore the subcellular localization of the 5‐HT2CR in synaptosomes and the post‐synaptic density, an electron‐dense thickening specialized for post‐synaptic signaling and neuronal plasticity. Utilizing multiples tissues (brain, peripheral tissues), protein fractions (synaptosomal, post‐synaptic density), and controls (peptide neutralization, 5‐HT2CR stably‐expressing cells), we established the selectivity of two commercially available 5‐HT2CR antibodies and employed the antibodies in western blot and immunoprecipitation studies of prefrontal cortex (PFC) and motor cortex, two regions implicated in cognitive, emotional and motor dysfunction. For the first time, we demonstrated the expression of the 5‐HT2CR in post‐synaptic density‐enriched fractions from both PFC and motor cortex. Co‐immunoprecipitation studies revealed the presence of post‐synaptic density‐95 within the 5‐HT2CR protein complex expressed in PFC and motor cortex. Taken together, these data support the hypothesis that the 5‐HT2CR is localized within the post‐synaptic thickening of synapses and is therefore positioned to directly modulate synaptic plasticity in cortical neurons.
Non‐classical exocytosis of α‐synuclein is sensitive to folding states and promoted under stress conditions
Authors: Jang Ara , Lee He‐Jin , Suk Ji‐Eun , Jung Jin‐Woo , Kim Kwang‐Pyo , Lee Seung‐Jae
Published: March 2010

J. Neurochem. (2010) 113, 1263–1274.

Parkinson’s disease is characterized by deposition of misfolded/aggregated α‐synuclein proteins in multiple regions of the brain. Neurons can release α‐synuclein; through this release, pathological forms of α‐synuclein are propagated between neurons, and also cause neuroinflammation. In this study, we demonstrate that release of α‐synuclein is consistently increased under various protein misfolding stress conditions in both neuroblastoma and primary neuron models. This release is mediated by a non‐classical, endoplasmic reticulum (ER)/Golgi‐independent exocytosis, and stress‐induced release coincides with increased translocation of α‐synuclein into vesicles. Both vesicle translocation and secretion were blocked by attachment of a highly stable, globular protein to α‐synuclein, whereas forced protein misfolding resulted in an increase in both of these activities. Mass spectrometry analysis showed a higher degree of oxidative modification in secreted α‐synuclein than in the cellular protein. Together, these results suggest that structurally abnormal, damaged α‐synuclein proteins translocate preferentially into vesicles and are released from neuronal cells via exocytosis.
Neonatal exposure to estradiol in rats influences neuroactive steroid concentrations, GABAAreceptor expression, and behavioral sensitivity to anxiolytic drugs
Authors: Calza Arianna , Sogliano Cristiana , Santoru Francesca , Marra Carla , Angioni Maria Maddalena , Mostallino Maria Cristina , Biggio Giovanni , Concas Alessandra
Published: March 2010

J. Neurochem.(2010)113, 1285–1295.

Gonadal steroids, in particular estradiol, exert important actions during pre‐ and perinatal periods in the regulation of sexual dimorphism and development of the nervous system. We have now examined the effects of neonatal estradiol administration in female rats on brain concentrations of the neuroactive steroids allopregnanolone and tetrahydrodeoxycorticosterone, expression of GABAAreceptor subunits, and behavioral sensitivity to benzodiazepines and allopregnanolone. Administration of β‐estradiol 3‐benzoate on the day of birth resulted in marked decreases in the concentrations of progesterone and allopregnanolone in the cerebral cortex at 21, 60, and 180 days after birth. The concentrations of tetrahydrodeoxycorticosterone, 17β‐estradiol, and dehydroepiandrosterone in the brain at 60 days were not affected by such treatment. Neonatal administration of β‐estradiol 3‐benzoate also increased the cerebrocortical abundance of α1, α2, and γ2subunits of the GABAAreceptor without affecting that of α3, α4, α5, or δ subunits. Diazepam induced a greater reduction in locomotor activity as well as a more pronounced anxiolytic‐like effect in the elevated plus‐maze test in rats subjected to neonatal treatment with β‐estradiol 3‐benzoate than in vehicle‐treated controls, while allopregnanolone induced a similar effect in both groups. These effects of estradiol suggest that it plays a major role in regulation both of GABAergic transmission and of the abundance of endogenous modulators of such transmission during development of the central nervous system.
Molecular genetic approaches to understanding the roles and regulation of iron in brain health and disease
Authors: Johnstone Daniel , Milward Elizabeth A.
Published: March 2010

J. Neurochem. (2010) 113, 1369–1386.

Iron is essential in the brain, yet too much iron can be toxic. Tight regulation of iron in the brain may involve intrinsic mechanisms that control internal homeostasis independent of systemic iron status. Iron abnormalities occur in various neurological disorders, usually with symptoms or neuropathology associated with movement impairment or behavioral disturbances rather than cognitive impairment or dementia. Consistent with this, polymorphisms in the HFE gene, associated with the iron overload disorder hemochromatosis, show stronger associations with the movement disorder amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (motor neuron disease) than with cognitive impairment. Such associations may arise because certain brain regions involved in movement or executive control are particularly iron‐rich, notably the basal ganglia, and may be highly reliant on iron. Various mechanisms, including iron redistribution causing functional iron deficiency, lysosomal and mitochondrial abnormalities or oxidative damage, could underlie iron‐related neuropathogenesis. Clarifying how iron contributes causatively to neurodegeneration may improve treatment options in a range of neurodegenerative disorders. This review considers how modern molecular genetic approaches can be applied to resolve the complex molecular systems and pathways by which brain iron homeostasis is regulated and the molecular changes that occur with iron dyshomeostasis and neuropathogenesis.
CLOCK and NPAS2 have overlapping roles in the circadian oscillation of arylalkylamine N‐acetyltransferase mRNA in chicken cone photoreceptors
Authors: Haque Rashidul , Ali Fatima G. , Biscoglia Rebecca , Abey Jane , Weller Joan , Klein David , Iuvone P. Michael
Published: March 2010

J. Neurochem. (2010) 113, 1296–1306.

Circadian clocks in vertebrates are thought to be composed of transcriptional‐translational feedback loops involving a highly conversed set of ‘clock genes’ namely, period (Per1‐3) and cryptochrome (Cry1‐2), which encode negative transcriptional regulators; and Bmal1, Clock, and Npas2, which encode positive regulators. Aanat, which encodes arylalkylamine N‐acetyltransferase (AANAT), the key regulatory enzyme that drives the circadian rhythm of melatonin synthesis, contains a circadian E‐box element (CACGTG) in its proximal promoter that is potentially capable of binding CLOCK : BMAL1 and NPAS2 : BMAL1 heterodimers. The present study was conducted to investigate whether CLOCK and/or NPAS2 regulates Aanat expression in photoreceptor cells. Npas2 and Clock are both expressed in photoreceptor cells in vivo and in vitro. To assess the roles of CLOCK and NPAS2 in Aanat expression, gene‐specific micro RNA vectors were used to knock down expression of these clock genes in photoreceptor‐enriched cell cultures. The knockdown of CLOCK protein significantly reduced the circadian expression of Npas2, Per2, and Aanat transcripts but had no effect on the circadian rhythm of Bmal1 transcript level. The knockdown of NPAS2 significantly damped the circadian rhythm of Aanat mRNAs but had no effect on circadian expression of any of clock genes examined, except Npas2 itself. Chromatin immunoprecipitation studies indicated that both CLOCK and NPAS2 bound to the Aanat promoter in situ. Thus, CLOCK and NPAS2 have overlapping roles in the clock output pathway that regulates the rhythmic expression of Aanat in photoreceptors. However, CLOCK plays the predominant role in the chicken photoreceptor circadian clockwork mechanism, including the regulation of NPAS2 expression.
Insulin‐like growth factor binding protein‐1 activates integrin‐mediated intracellular signaling and migration in oligodendrocytes
Authors: Chesik Daniel , De Keyser Jacques , Bron Reinier , Fuhler Gwenny M.
Published: March 2010

J. Neurochem. (2010) 113, 1319–1330.

In multiple sclerosis (MS), oligodendrocytes in lesions are lost, leaving damaged tissue virtually devoid of these myelin‐producing cells. Our group has recently demonstrated enhanced expression of insulin‐like growth factor (IGF) binding protein‐1 (IGFBP‐1) in oligodendrocytes (CNPase+) localized adjacent to MS lesions. In the present study, we demonstrate IGF‐1‐independent actions of IGFBP‐1 on OLN‐93 oligodendroglial cells, including activation of kinases ERK1/2, focal adhesion kinase and p21‐activated kinase as well as small monomeric GTPases Rac and Ral. Activation of these intracellular signaling components was inhibited by GRGDS peptide, indicating signaling through integrin receptors. While both IGF‐1 and IGFBP‐1 demonstrated rapid induction of actin polymerization, IGFBP‐1 proved to be a more potent inducer of migration than IGF‐1, inducing a threefold increased migration rate. Furthermore, through integrin receptor signaling IGFBP‐1 induced rapid transient translocalization of intracellular Rac toward punctuated structures followed by translocation of Rac to the plasma membrane. Our results suggest that up‐regulation of IGFBP‐1 in oligodendrocytes in MS may serve two functions: (i) regulate IGF‐1 actions, (ii) exert IGF‐independent effects through its RGD sequence.
Amphotericin B, identified from a natural product screen, antagonizes CNS inhibitors to promote axon growth via activation of an Akt pathway in neurons
Authors: Gao Ying , Deng Kangwen , Cao Zixuan , Graziani Edmund I. , Gilbert Adam M. , Koehn Frank E. , Wood Andrew , Doherty Patrick , Walsh Frank S.
Published: March 2010

J. Neurochem. (2010) 113, 1331–1342.

One of the major barriers to successful axon regeneration in the adult CNS is the presence of inhibitory molecules that originate from the myelin sheath and glial scar. So far, only a small number of pharmacological compounds have exhibited functional activity against CNS inhibitors in promoting axon regeneration after injury. To search for novel compounds that enhance neurite outgrowth in vitro, we initiated a screen of a collection of natural products. We identified four compounds with the potential to promote growth over a myelin substrate. Of these, Amphotericin B (AmB) was shown to enhance neurite outgrowth and antagonize activities of major myelin associated inhibitors and glial‐scar‐derived chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans. AmB was found to activate Akt and thereby suppress the activity of glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta. Also, a cell permeable peptide that inhibits Akt activity was shown to block the effect of AmB in promoting axonal growth, while another peptide that increases Akt activity stimulated axonal growth in the presence of the myelin associated inhibitors. Our results suggest that AmB can promote neurite outgrowth over a wide range of inhibitory substrates via a mechanism that involves activation of Akt.
Role of the c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase pathway in retinal excitotoxicity, and neuroprotection by its inhibition
Authors: Bessero Anne‐Caroline , Chiodini Florence , Rungger‐Brändle Elisabeth , Bonny Christophe , Clarke Peter G. H.
Published: March 2010

J. Neurochem. (2010) 113, 1307–1318.

Retinal excitotoxicity is associated with retinal ischemia, and with glaucomatous and traumatic optic neuropathy. The present study investigates the role of c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK) activation in NMDA‐mediated retinal excitotoxicity and determines whether neuroprotection can be obtained with the JNK pathway inhibitor, d‐form of JNK‐inhibitor 1 (d‐JNKI‐1). Young adult rats received intravitreal injections of 20 nmol NMDA, which caused extensive neuronal death in the inner nuclear and ganglion cell layers. This excitotoxicity was associated with strong activation of calpain, as revealed by fodrin cleavage, and of JNK. The cell‐permeable peptide d‐JNKI‐1 was used to inhibit JNK. Within 40 min of its intravitreal injection, FITC‐labeled d‐JNKI‐1 spread through the retinal ganglion cell layer into the inner nuclear layer and interfered with the NMDA‐induced phosphorylation of JNK. Injections of unlabeled d‐JNKI‐1 gave unprecedentedly strong neuroprotection against cell death in both layers, lasting for at least 10 days. The NMDA‐induced calpain‐specific fodrin cleavage was likewise strongly inhibited by d‐JNKI‐1. Moreover the electroretinogram was partially preserved by d‐JNKI‐1. Thus, the JNK pathway is involved in NMDA‐mediated retinal excitotoxicity and JNK inhibition by d‐JNKI‐1 provides strong neuroprotection as shown morphologically, biochemically and physiologically.
An evolutionary fast‐track to biocalcification
Authors: JACKSON D. J. , THIEL V. , WÖRHEIDE G.
Published: March 2010

The ability to construct mineralized shells, spicules, spines and skeletons is thought to be a key factor that fuelled the expansion of multicellular animal life during the early Cambrian. The genes and molecular mechanisms that control the process of biomineralization in disparate phyla are gradually being revealed, and it is broadly recognized that an insoluble matrix of proteins, carbohydrates and other organic molecules are required for the initiation, regulation and inhibition of crystal growth. Here, we show that Astrosclera willeyana, a living representative of the now largely extinct stromatoporid sponges (a polyphyletic grade of poriferan bauplan), has apparently bypassed the requirement to evolve many of these mineral‐regulating matrix proteins by using the degraded remains of bacteria to seed CaCO3 crystal growth. Because stromatoporid sponges formed extensive reefs during the Paelozoic and Mesozoic eras (fulfilling the role that stony corals play in modern coral reefs), and fossil evidence suggests that the same process of bacterial skeleton formation occurred in these stromatoporid ancestors, we infer that some ancient reef ecosystems might have been founded on this microbial–metazoan relationship.
α1‐ and α2‐Adrenoceptor hyporesponsiveness in isolated bisected vas deferens of bile duct‐ligated rats
Authors: Heydari F. , Mehr S. E. , Samini M.
Published: March 2010

1 It has been suggested that cholestasis accompanied with changes in autonomic balance and hyporesponsiveness in muscarinic and adrenergic receptors of some organs, e.g. cardiovascular system. Increased plasma levels of epinephrine and norepinephrine has been shown during cholestasis suggesting augmented activity of sympathetic nervous system. In this study we evaluate both α1and α2responsiveness in isolated rat vas deferens, as a tissue with rich adrenergic innervations.

2 Epididymal and prostatic halves of vas deferens responsiveness have been studied to phenylephrine and clonidine respectively in three groups of un‐operated, sham‐operated (sham), and bile duct‐ligated (BDL) rats.

3 Our results indicate that in vas deferens of BDL animals, the concentration‐response curve of both phenylephrine and clonidine shifted to rightward compared to control group, while the position of concentration‐response curve of sham group did not change significantly (P > 0.05). EC50of phenylephrine and IC50of clonidine were increased showing a decreased responsiveness of tissue to phenylephrine (P < 0.05) and clonidine (P < 0.001) in BDL rats.

4 In this study, both subtype of α‐adrenoceptors (α1and α2) has been studied in cholestatic rat vas deference. Our results showed that cholestasis induce hyporesponsiveness to phenylephrine and clonidine. These results are consistent with previous reports, suggesting the hyporesponsiveness of α1‐adrenoceptors in pulmonary artery and papillary muscle and mesenteric beds. Our conclusion is that the cholestasis induces hyporesponsiveness to phenylephrine and clonidine in epididymal (α1‐adrenoceptors) and prostatic (α2‐adrenoceptors) halves of rat vas deferens respectively. Although the logical explanation to this hyporesponsiveness is the down regulation but it has been suggested that it is not because of down regulation.
Ecological‐Niche Modeling and Prioritization of Conservation‐Area Networks for Mexican Herpetofauna
Authors: URBINA‐CARDONA J. NICOLÁS , FLORES‐VILLELA OSCAR
Published: March 2010

Abstract:  One of the most important tools in conservation biology is information on the geographic distribution of species and the variables determining those patterns. We used maximum‐entropy niche modeling to run distribution models for 222 amphibian and 371 reptile species (49% endemics and 27% threatened) for which we had 34,619 single geographic records. The planning region is in southeastern Mexico, is 20% of the country's area, includes 80% of the country's herpetofauna, and lacks an adequate protected‐area system. We used probabilistic data to build distribution models of herpetofauna for use in prioritizing conservation areas for three target groups (all species and threatened and endemic species). The accuracy of species‐distribution models was better for endemic and threatened species than it was for all species. Forty‐seven percent of the region has been deforested and additional conservation areas with 13.7% to 88.6% more native vegetation (76% to 96% of the areas are outside the current protected‐area system) are needed. There was overlap in 26 of the main selected areas in the conservation‐area network prioritized to preserve the target groups, and for all three target groups the proportion of vegetation types needed for their conservation was constant: 30% pine and oak forests, 22% tropical evergreen forest, 17% low deciduous forest, and 8% montane cloud forests. The fact that different groups of species require the same proportion of habitat types suggests that the pine and oak forests support the highest proportion of endemic and threatened species and should therefore be given priority over other types of vegetation for inclusion in the protected areas of southeastern Mexico.
Effect of Small‐Scale Heterogeneity of Prey and Hunter Distributions on the Sustainability of Bushmeat Hunting
Authors: VAN VLIET NATHALIE , MILNER‐GULLAND E. J. , BOUSQUET FRANCOIS , SAQALLI MEHDI , NASI ROBERT
Published: March 2010

Abstract:  Bushmeat is the main source of protein and the most important source of income for rural people in the Congo Basin, but intensive hunting of bushmeat species is also a major concern for conservationists. Although spatial heterogeneity in hunting effort and in prey populations at the landscape level plays a key role in the sustainability of hunted populations, the role of small‐scale heterogeneity within a village hunting territory in the sustainability of hunting has remained understudied. We built a spatially explicit multiagent model to capture the dynamics of a system in which hunters and preys interact within a village hunting territory. We examined the case of hunting of bay duikers (Cephalophus dorsalis) in the village of Ntsiété, northeastern Gabon. The impact of hunting on prey populations depended on the spatial heterogeneity of hunting and prey distribution at small scales within a hunting area. Within a village territory, the existence of areas hunted throughout the year, areas hunted only during certain seasons, and unhunted areas contributed to the sustainability of the system. Prey abundance and offtake per hunter were particularly sensitive to the frequency and length of hunting sessions and to the number of hunters sharing an area. Some biological parameters of the prey species, such as dispersal rate and territory size, determined their spatial distribution in a hunting area, which in turn influenced the sustainability of hunting. Detailed knowledge of species ecology and behavior, and of hunting practices are crucial to understanding the distribution of potential sinks and sources in space and time. Given the recognized failure of simple biological models to assess maximum sustainable yields, multiagent models provide an innovative path toward new approaches for the assessment of hunting sustainability, provided further research is conducted to increase knowledge of prey species’ and hunter behavior.
Mapping Human and Social Dimensions of Conservation Opportunity for the Scheduling of Conservation Action on Private Land
Authors: KNIGHT ANDREW T. , COWLING RICHARD M. , DIFFORD MARK , CAMPBELL BRUCE M.
Published: March 2010

Abstract  Spatial prioritization techniques are applied in conservation‐planning initiatives to allocate conservation resources. Although typically they are based on ecological data (e.g., species, habitats, ecological processes), increasingly they also include nonecological data, mostly on the vulnerability of valued features and economic costs of implementation. Nevertheless, the effectiveness of conservation actions implemented through conservation‐planning initiatives is a function of the human and social dimensions of social‐ecological systems, such as stakeholders’ willingness and capacity to participate. We assessed human and social factors hypothesized to define opportunities for implementing effective conservation action by individual land managers (those responsible for making day‐to‐day decisions on land use) and mapped these to schedule implementation of a private land conservation program. We surveyed 48 land managers who owned 301 land parcels in the Makana Municipality of the Eastern Cape province in South Africa. Psychometric statistical and cluster analyses were applied to the interview data so as to map human and social factors of conservation opportunity across a landscape of regional conservation importance. Four groups of landowners were identified, in rank order, for a phased implementation process. Furthermore, using psychometric statistical techniques, we reduced the number of interview questions from 165 to 45, which is a preliminary step toward developing surrogates for human and social factors that can be developed rapidly and complemented with measures of conservation value, vulnerability, and economic cost to more‐effectively schedule conservation actions. This work provides conservation and land management professionals direction on where and how implementation of local‐scale conservation should be undertaken to ensure it is feasible.
Deforestation and Avian Extinction on Tropical Landbridge Islands
Authors: SODHI NAVJOT S. , WILCOVE DAVID S. , LEE TIEN MING , SEKERCIOGLU CAGAN H. , SUBARAJ R. , BERNARD HENRY , YONG DING LI , LIM SUSAN L. H. , PRAWIRADILAGA DEWI M. , BROOK BARRY W.
Published: March 2010

Abstract: There are few empirical data, particularly collected simultaneously from multiple sites, on extinctions resulting from human‐driven land‐use change. Southeast Asia has the highest deforestation rate in the world, but the resulting losses of biological diversity remain poorly documented. Between November 2006 and March 2008, we conducted bird surveys on six landbridge islands in Malaysia and Indonesia. These islands were surveyed previously for birds in the early 1900s, when they were extensively forested. Our bird inventories of the islands were nearly complete, as indicated by sampling saturation curves and nonparametric true richness estimators. From zero (Pulau Malawali and Pulau Mantanani) to 15 (Pulau Bintan) diurnal resident landbird species were apparently extirpated since the early 1900s. Adding comparable but published extinction data from Singapore to our regression analyses, we found there were proportionally fewer forest bird extinctions in areas with greater remaining forest cover. Nevertheless, the statistical evidence to support this relationship was weak, owing to our unavoidably small sample size. Bird species that are restricted to the Indomalayan region, lay few eggs, are heavier, and occupy a narrower habitat breadth, were most vulnerable to extinction on Pulau Bintan. This was the only island where sufficient data existed to analyze the correlates of extinction. Forest preservation and restoration are needed on these islands to conserve the remaining forest avifauna. Our study of landbridge islands indicates that deforestation may increasingly threaten Southeast Asian biodiversity.
Comparison of Tibial Plateau Angle Changes after Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy Fixation with Conventional or Locking Screw Technology
Authors: Conkling Amanda L. , Fagin Bennett , Daye R. Mark
Published: March 2010

Objective: To compare the effects of locking and conventional screws on postoperative tibial plateau angle (TPA), osteotomy healing, and complication rate after tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) in dogs treated for naturally occurring cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture.

Study Design: Prospective clinical study.

Study Population: Dogs (n=118) with CCL rupture.

Methods:

Dogs (≥20 kg) with unilateral CCL rupture and sufficient bone stock for TPLO and use of a 3.5‐mm‐broad or ‐narrow TPLO plate were sequentially allocated to have plate fixation with locking or conventional screws. Data analyzed included breed, age, sex, body weight, body condition score, limb operated, implants used, meniscal status, operative time, and days to recheck. Preoperative, immediate postoperative, and 8‐week recheck mediolateral radiographs were reviewed, and TPA, complications, and healing status were evaluated.

Results: Stifles in the locking screw group had significantly less change in postoperative TPA than stifles in the conventional screw group. Locking screw fixation also had significantly higher grades of osteotomy healing, assessed on a mediolateral radiographic view.

Conclusions: TPLO plates secured with locking screws are acceptable when compared with those secured with conventional screws; osteotomy healing is improved and TPA better conserved when using locking screws.

Clinical Relevance: Locking screw fixation serves to increase stabilization of TPA during TPLO healing and provides improved radiographic evidence of osteotomy healing.
Predictive Variables for Complications after TPLO with Stifle Inspection by Arthrotomy in 1000 Consecutive Dogs
Authors: Fitzpatrick Noel , Solano Miguel Angel
Published: March 2010

Objective:To evaluate risk factors for complications, including meniscal injury and infection, after tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) in dogs.

Study Design:Retrospective case series.

Sample Population:Dogs (n=1000; 1146 stifles) with cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture that had TPLO.

Methods:Medical records (January 2004–March 2009) were reviewed for dogs operated sequentially by medial arthrotomy with instrumented meniscal inspection (IMI) and TPLO by a single experienced surgeon. Multiple logistic regression models were used to evaluate independent contribution of risk factors to the recorded complications.

Results:Overall complication rate was 14.8%, of which 6.6% were major complications. Incidence of primary meniscal injury (PMI) was 33.2%, and subsequent meniscal injury (SMI) 2.8%. Postoperative infection occurred in 6.6% dogs. Bilateral CCL rupture was diagnosed in 14.6% dogs and no statistically significant complication incidence difference was recorded for simultaneous or staged bilateral surgical procedures. Administration of postoperative antibacterial therapy and being a Labrador reduced infection incidence, whereas increased body‐weight and being an intact male increased infection risk. Increased body‐weight and complete (versus partial) CCL rupture were significant predictors of overall complications.

Conclusions:Incidence of SMI recorded in this study is similar to that reported previously involving arthroscopic meniscal inspection at time of TPLO. Infection was the single most important complication and antibiotic therapy was protective. Complication rate did not differ between bilateral simultaneous or staged procedures.

Clinical Relevance:Complication rate after TPLO with arthrotomy and IMI is lower than previously reported, bilateral simultaneous TPLO is reasonable, and incidence of major complications compares favorably with general orthopedic procedures.
Effect of Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy on Patellar Tendon Angle: A Radiographic Cadaveric Study
Authors: Drygas Kevin A. , Pozzi Antonio , Goring Robert L. , Horodyski MaryBeth , Lewis Daniel D.
Published: March 2010

Objectives: To determine the effect of tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) on patellar tendon angle (PTA) in dogs.

Study Design: Cadaveric radiographic study.

Animals: Pelvic limb pairs (n=5) obtained from skeletally mature dogs, weighing 22–36 kg.

Methods: TPLO was performed using a radiolucent jig that allowed for plateau segment rotation to a tibial plateau angle (TPA) of 15°, 6°, and 0°. Before, and at each of the prescribed rotations, PTA was measured by the tibial plateau (PTATP) and common tangent (PTACT) methods with the stifle positioned at 135° of flexion. Linear regression analysis was performed to evaluate the correlation between TPA and PTA.

Results: At a mean (±SD) TPA of 5.9±0.7°, mean±SD PTATP and PTACT were 94.1±1.6° and 86.8±2.5°, respectively. A linear correlation was observed between TPA and PTATP (r=0.85) and between TPA and PTACT (r=0.61). Based on the regression equation of TPA and PTACT, a TPA of 12° corresponded to a PTACT of ∼90°.

Conclusion: TPLO to a TPA of 6° reduces PTA to values similar to those recommended when performing tibial tuberosity advancement in dogs with cranial cruciate ligament insufficiency.

Clinical Relevance: TPLO may neutralize tibial thrust by modifying PTA as well as decreasing TPA. TPLO to a TPA of 6° may not be necessary to neutralize the cranial tibial thrust according to the plateau rotation based on PTACT measurement.
Comparison of Canine Stifle Kinematic Data Collected with Three Different Targeting Models
Authors: Torres Bryan T. , Punke John P. , Fu Yang‐Chieh , Navik Judith A. , Speas Abbie L. , Sornborger Andrew , Budsberg Steven C.
Published: March 2010

Objective:To model the kinematics of the canine stifle in 3 dimensions using the Joint Coordinate System (JCS) and compare the JCS method with linear and segmental models.

Study Design:In vivo biomechanical study.

Animals:Normal adult mixed breed dogs (n=6).

Methods:Dogs had 10 retroreflective markers affixed to the skin on the right pelvic limb. Dogs were walked and trotted 5 times through the calibrated space and the procedure was repeated 5 days later. Sagittal flexion and extension angle waveforms acquired during each trial with all 3 models (JCS, Linear, and Segmental) were produced simultaneously during each gait. The JCS method provided additional internal/external and abduction/adduction angles. Comparison of sagittal flexion and extension angle waveforms was performed with generalized indicator function analysis (GIFA) and Fourier analysis. A normalization procedure was performed.

Results:Each model provided consistent equivalent sagittal flexion–extension data. The JCS provided consistent additional internal/external and abduction/adduction. Sagittal waveform differences were found between methods and testing days for each dog at a walk and a trot with both GIFA and Fourier analysis. After normalization, differences were less with Fourier analysis and were unaltered with GIFA.

Conclusions:Whereas all methods produced similar flexion–extension waveforms, JCS provided additional valuable data.

Clinical Relevance:The JCS model provided sagittal plane flexion/extension data as well as internal/external rotation and abduction/adduction data.
Correlation of Radiographic Changes after Tibial Tuberosity Advancement in Dogs with Cranial Cruciate‐Deficient Stifles with Functional Outcome
Authors: Morgan Joe P. , Voss Katja , Damur Daniel M. , Guerrero Tomás , Haessig Michael , Montavon Pierre M.
Published: March 2010

Objective:To (1) evaluate radiographic changes associated with osteoarthrosis (OA) before and after tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA) and (2) determine if these changes are indicative of limb function as determined by kinetic gait analysis.

Study Design:Prospective clinical study.

Animals:Dogs (n=35) with cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) deficient stifles (38).

Methods:Variables recorded were: complete or partial CCL rupture, meniscal lesions, arthroscopically graded cartilage lesions, complications, and revision surgeries. Radiographic evaluation and kinetic gait analysis (vertical ground reaction forces [GRFs]) were conducted pre‐ and 4–16 months postoperatively (mean, 5.9 months). Radiographs were evaluated without knowledge of operative findings and functional outcome. A score (0–3) based on new bone production at 11 specific sites was used to grade OA. Soft tissue changes were classified separately as normal or excessive. Preoperative scores were correlated with clinical variables. Postoperative scores and progression of OA scores were correlated with clinical variables and GRFs.

Results:OA remained unchanged in 17 joints and progressed in 21 (55%). Dogs with meniscal lesions had higher OA scores preoperatively, but not at follow‐up. Dogs with severe cartilage lesions at surgery had more progression of OA. GRFs improved after surgery and were not correlated with any of the radiographic OA scores.

Conclusion:Progression of OA was greater in the presence of severe cartilage lesions at surgery. OA scores were not correlated with GRFs.

Clinical Relevance:Progression of OA is generally expected to occur after TTA despite improvement of limb function.
Effect of Cranial Tibial Closing Wedge Angle on Tibial Subluxation: An Ex Vivo Study
Authors: Apelt Detlef , Pozzi Antonio , Marcellin‐Little Denis J. , Kowaleski Michael P.
Published: March 2010

Objective:To evaluate the effect of cranial tibial wedge osteotomy (CTWO) angle on cranial tibial subluxation (CTS) and postoperative tibial plateau angle (TPA).

Study Design:Ex vivo biomechanical study.

Sample Population:Canine pelvic limbs (n=6).

Methods:TPA determined from a lateral radiographic projection. CTS under 30% body weight load was measured from radiographs in the intact limb and after transection of the cranial cruciate ligament. A CTWO equal to TPA+10° was performed at the distal extent of the tibial crest, and was stabilized with a custom designed hinge plate and external skeletal fixator. TPA and CTS in the loaded limb was determined from radiographs at 4 CTWO angles: TPA−5°, TPA, TPA+5°, and TPA+7.5°. Comparison of CTS between the intact limb and the 4 CTWO angle groups was performed using 1‐way repeated‐measures ANOVA and a Dunnett multiple comparison test (significance atP<.05).

Results:CTS was significantly greater than that of the intact limb in the TPA−5° and TPA groups. CTS was not significantly different from the intact limb in the TPA+5° or TPA+7.5° groups with corresponding TPAs of 5.9° and 3.8°, respectively.

Conclusion:Using this model, CTS was neutralized at a TPA of ∼4–6° with a CTWO angle between TPA+5° and TPA+7.5°.

Clinical Relevance:A CTWO angle between TPA+5° and TPA+7.5° is necessary to neutralize CTS and achieve a postoperative TPA of 4–6° if the CTWO is performed at the distal extent of the tibial crest and the caudal cortices are aligned.