bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of the accuracy of quantitative urine collection in mink (Mustela vison) using osmotic pumps for continuous release of p-amino-hippuric acid and inulin
Authors: Wamberg Søren , Elnif Jan , Tauson Anne-Helene
Published: May 2007

A method is described to assess the accuracy of quantitative collection of urine in small experimental animals using implanted Alzetr osmotic pumps for continuous release of specific urinary markers. The nominal pumping rate (10.00±0.15 µl/h; mean±SEM) of 10 osmotic pumps was verified (9.96±0.12 µl/h) in a l0-day in vitro assay in isotonic saline at 39.0 °C. Ten adult female mink (1100±34 g) had a 2-ml osmotic pump implanted intraperitoneally for 7 days while maintained in metabolic cages on a conventional mink diet. In 5 mink the pumps contained [3H]-labelled p-aminohippuric acid (PAH) only. The remaining 5 animals received a pump containing [H]-PAH and [14C]-labelled inulin. The experiment was well tolerated by all animals. In fed animals, the amount of urine collected per day was not influenced by the osmotic pumps, whereas 24 h of fasting (water allowed) caused a dramatic fall in urinary volume. In 4 consecutive 24-h collections of urine ( n=l0 animals) the recovery of [3H]-PAH was 70.8±3.6% (range: 52.0-87.2%), and urinary plus faecal water (=total) recovery of [3H]-PAH averaged 77.0±3.7% (range: 60.3%-94.3%). For [14C]-inulin ( n=5 animals) the urinary and total recoveries were 68.4±2.2% and 77.2±2.4%, respectively. In urine the 14C to 3H counts-ratio was almost identical to that of the infusion solution, indicating that metabolic decomposition of the markers was negligible.

The results indicate that the daily recovery of suitable urinary markers, released by implanted osmotic pumps, provides a reproducible and valid measure of the accuracy achieved in quantitative collection of urine in mink and probably also in other animal species. Hence, this technique may be useful in future studies on animal nutrition and/or drug disposition.
Preferences of individually housed TO strain laboratory mice for loose substrate or tubes for sleeping
Authors: Sherwin C. M.
Published: May 2007

If we are to improve welfare by appropriate environmental design, it is important to determine which characteristics of prefabricated shelters are preferred by laboratory mice. Three investigations were conducted to determine the preferences of individually housed mice for shape, opacity and openness of tubes for sleeping in. During all three investigations, it was evident that the mice preferred to sleep in sawdust when this was available. The mice slept in the tubes only after the sawdust was removed, and then slept in the tubes rarely once the sawdust was replaced. Individual mice were generally consistent in their choice of tube type, even when the position was changed. However, there were no overwhelming group-preference for shape, opacity or openness of the tubes, though a short, wide tube was used more frequently than a long, or short narrow structure. Several mice performed shelter-building activities when using the tubes, indicating that either some characteristic of the tubes was unsatisfactory or that the mice were motivated to perform shelter-building activities despite the presence of a satisfactory structure. Providing pre-formed tubes might not improve welfare if mice are motivated to perform the activities of shelter-building themselves, rather than achieving the functional consequences. However, the repeated use of tubular structures for other purposes, e.g. as a refuge or latrine, indicates that providing such structures is likely to enhance the welfare of laboratory mice.
Evaluation of anaesthetic regimens in guineapigs
Authors: Radde G. R. , Hinson A. , Crenshaw D. , Toth L. A.
Published: May 2007

To establish reliable methods of chemical restraint and anaesthesia for mildly painful procedures in guineapigs, we compared the effects of the following anaesthetics and combinations of anaesthetics: tiletamine-zolazepam (two dosages), pentobarbital, methoxyflurane, ketamine-xylazine (three dosages), and ketamine-xylazine with methoxyflurane. Tiletamine-zolazepam induced a short period of chemical restraint but lacked analgesic effects at the doses tested. Although pentobarbital induced prolonged chemical restraint, the loss of responsiveness to painful stimuli was brief. Methoxyflurane alone induced transient anaesthesia and analgesia. Ketamine-xylazine combinations induced analgesia and chemical restraint of comparable durations, and some dosages were suitable for mildly painful procedures. The addition of methoxyflurane significantly potentiated the anaesthetic and analgesic properties of the high dosage ketamine-xylazine combination.
Pharmacokinetics of lidocaine with epinephrine in piglets following epidural anaesthesia
Authors: Lacoste L. , Karayan J. , Bouquet S. , Rouffineau J. , Péchier J. M. , Caritez J. C. , Carretier M. , Fusciardi J.
Published: May 2007

The time course of arterial plasma lidocaine concentration, following an epidural anaesthesia via the sacrococcygeal or the S4-S5 trans-sacral approach, was studied in nine healthy piglets (7.8±1.3 weeks). Plasma lidocaine concentrations were measured for up to six hours after administration (5 mg/kg). Peak plasma concentration was 1.83±0.17 mg/l. Pharmacokinetic parameters determined from an independent compartment model were not different from those observed after an epidural administration of lidocaine via the sacrococcygeal space in children, except for a wide variability in the time taken to reach the maximum concentration (27.3±7.4 min) and a shorter half-life of elimination (82.8±7.0 min). The total body clearance of lidocaine was similar in piglets (17.3±1.6 ml/min/kg) to that in children. The shorter half-life of elimination was therefore attributed to a smaller volume of distribution in piglets (2.0±0.21/kg).
Cardiology grand rounds: effect of videoconferencing on educational value
Authors: Allen Michael , Mann Karen , Kells Cathy , Ferrier Suzanne , O'Connor Nicolette , MacDonald Paul
Published: May 2007

We studied four cardiology grand rounds transmitted by videoconference from a tertiary care centre to four other hospitals in eastern Canada. We collected data with evaluation questionnaires and by video recording participants at the receiving-site and the presentation they received from the presenting site. Receiving-site participants ( n = 20) rated their satisfaction with all domains significantly lower than did presenting-site participants ( n = 49). The greatest difference in ratings was in the ability to see slides (receiving sites 2.6/5, presenting site 4.6/5). Review of video recordings revealed that slides showing material copied from print sources was difficult to read at receiving sites. While 56% of discussion time was devoted to questions from receiving sites, participants there rated their ability to participate in discussion lower than those at the presenting site (3.9/5 vs 4.4/5). This may be because some parts of the discussion from the presenting site were not transmitted. Receiving-site participants rated the educational value of the rounds lower than their presenting-site colleagues (3.9/5 vs 4.4/5) but answered a similar percentage of knowledge questions correctly (85 vs 89%).
Use of videoconferencing in Norwegian psychiatry
Authors: Hanssen Borghild , Wangberg Silje C , Gammon Deede
Published: May 2007

We conducted a national survey about access to and use of videoconferencing in Norwegian mental health care. A questionnaire was mailed to 300 institutions, with 113 returned (38%). Attitudes towards videoconferencing were positive. 58 of the respondents had access to videoconferencing equipment. 51 institutions had used videoconferencing in the previous year. Geographical and climatic factors and travel-related strain were predictors of access. Videoconferencing was mostly used for meetings, supervision and lectures, and to a lesser degree was used clinically, with the patient present. 90% of the institutions had experienced videoconferencing as useful. Lack of videoconferencing equipment in collaborating institutions was an inhibiting factor for use. There is a gap between the potential of videoconferencing and its actual utilization in Norway's mental health sector.
A randomized trial of telepsychiatry for post-traumatic stress disorder
Authors: Frueh B Christopher , Monnier Jeannine , Yim Eunsil , Grubaugh Anouk L , Hamner Mark B , Knapp Rebecca G
Published: May 2007

We compared the efficacy of telepsychiatry and same-room treatment of combat-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) using cognitive behavioural therapy in 14 weekly, 90-min treatment sessions. Of 97 patients referred for study participation, 38 were randomized (17 into telepsychiatry, 21 into same-room), and approximately 25 (the number differed by instrument) had at least one post-baseline assessment. Measures of clinical and process outcomes were examined. No group differences were found on clinical outcomes at three-month follow-up. Satisfaction with treatment ratings was similar in both groups, with 'strong satisfaction' indicated by veterans in both modalities. Attendance and drop-out were similar in the two groups. The same-room group reported more comfort in talking with their therapist at post-treatment and had better treatment adherence. The results provide preliminary support for the use of telepsychiatry in the treatment of PTSD to improve access to care.
Low-bandwidth teleconsultations for patients with complex congenital heart diseases
Authors: Kosutic Jovan , Rigby Michael L , Mijin Dejan , Weatherburn Gwyn , Jowett Victoria , Vukomanovic Vladislav , Rakic Sanja , Markovic Gordana
Published: May 2007

We have reviewed our experience with a low-bandwidth paediatric telecardiology link (using ISDN at 128 kbit/s) between a tertiary centre in Belgrade and a tertiary centre in London. Over a two-year period, 12 videoconferences were held, during which 40 case histories of 38 patients were presented from Belgrade. The patients were aged 7 days to 20 years, and most of them had complex congenital heart defects. Changes in diagnosis and/or therapy occurred in 21 cases. Clinically relevant changes in diagnosis occurred in 2/40 cases (5%). In 12 cases, there were slight differences in opinion which resulted in minor changes in therapy for 9 of the patients. In another 9 patients, major changes in therapy occurred. There were no major problems with the quality of image and sound in any of the videoconferences. Our experience suggests that when there are experienced paediatric cardiologists at both ends of the connection, transmission via a single ISDN line is safe and accurate.
A feasibility study of an Internet-based telemedicine system for consultation in an ophthalmic emergency room
Authors: Bar-Sela Shai M , Glovinsky Yoseph
Published: May 2007

We examined the feasibility of a low-bandwidth, Internet-based tele-ophthalmology system for consultation in an ophthalmic emergency room. Forty-nine patients (98 eyes) with complicated cases were seen during night shifts in the ophthalmic emergency room. Ocular images were taken using a slit-lamp connected to a video camera, processed and transmitted to a senior physician by email. A telephone was used for real-time audio communication. Each case was re-examined by the same senior physician the following day. The time needed to capture and to process the images was 5 min (SD 2). Each case was given a feasibility score (0-100%), which was defined as the contribution made by the transmitted images in presenting clinical details which could not have been described verbally. High feasibility scores (mean scores ranging from 85 to 90) were found for the following images: ocular surface, anterior chamber, anterior chamber angle, pupils, lens, optic nerve and macula. In contrast, images of vitreous and peripheral retina received low feasibility scores (mean score 65). There was 100% agreement between the diagnosis made during consultation and the on-site examination made by the senior ophthalmologist later on. Ninety-eight percent of the patients stated that they would prefer being examined under the telemedicine system on their next emergency room visit, rather than the traditional resident on-site examination.
Nuclear medical expertise delivered by telemedicine in a 'dirty bomb' exercise
Authors: Pieper Bettina , Meineke Viktor
Published: May 2007

Management of victims in a 'dirty bomb' incident requires communication between the physicians directly involved and experts in radiation medicine. Telemedicine is an excellent tool to support doctors – who may not have specific training in radiation medicine – in handling radiation casualties. We have successfully used telemedicine in an exercise of the Federal Police in Germany. Experts in radiation medicine were provided by the Bundeswehr Institute of Radiobiology. Simple PC-based videoconferencing equipment was used with a 128 kbit/s ISDN line. To facilitate a standardized approach, a new questionnaire for radiation accidents was developed and tested during the exercise. A special camera was used for capturing skin images. Advice for patient treatment and strategies for safeguarding personnel and the environment during the exercise was provided almost immediately.
180 Years of Atmospheric Co2 Gas Analysis by Chemical Methods
Authors: Beck Ernst-Georg
Published: May 2007

More than 90,000 accurate chemical analyses of CO2 in air since 1812 are summarised. The historic chemical data reveal that changes in CO2 track changes in temperature, and therefore climate in contrast to the simple, monotonically increasing CO2 trend depicted in the post-1990 literature on climate-change. Since 1812, the CO2 concentration in northern hemispheric air has fluctuated exhibiting three high level maxima around 1825, 1857 and 1942 the latter showing more than 400 ppm.

Between 1857 and 1958, the Pettenkofer process was the standard analytical method for determining atmospheric carbon dioxide levels, and usually achieved an accuracy better than 3%. These determinations were made by several scientists of Nobel Prize level distinction. Following Callendar (1938), modern climatologists have generally ignored the historic determinations of CO2, despite the techniques being standard text book procedures in several different disciplines. Chemical methods were discredited as unreliable choosing only few which fit the assumption of a climate CO2 connection.
Air Conditioning: Selecting the Optimal Cool Storage System
Authors: Zheng Guozhong , Jing Youyin
Published: May 2007

The present paper introduces the notion of cool storage system and summarizes its benefits, especially the environmental ones: Air emissions savings and CFC reductions. Four existing cool storage types are outlined: chilled water storage, ice storage, PCM (phase change material) cool storage and high temperature water cool storage and a commonly employed value analysis method is introduced and applied to select the best cool storage option. An evaluating method is established and the best type of cool storage is obtained. The results indicate that high temperature water cool storage is the optimal option, and the method of value analysis has applicability in selecting an optimal system.
Sulphur Emission Control in China: Domestic Policy and Regional Cooperative Strategy
Authors: Nakada Minoru , Ueta Kazuhiro
Published: May 2007

This paper investigates the economic costs of pollution due to sulphur dioxide emissions in China and their impacts on human health and ecosystems in Northeast Asia, specifically China and Japan. We compare actual emission charging as practiced in China with the estimated domestic and regional “optimal” charges. The analysis demonstrates that, while the actual SO2 emission charge in China has been increased, it may be still less than the estimated domestic “optimal” charge incorporating damage costs only on human health by dry deposition in a gaseous form, excluding damage costs caused by acid rain in China. Nevertheless, it would be still beneficial for Japan to financially assist China with its SO2 reduction because the percent contribution by northeast China to deposition in Japan is increasing.
The Impact of Market Power on the Functioning of Tradable Green Certificates Schemes
Authors: del Río Pablo
Published: May 2007

Quotas with Tradable Green Certificates (TGC) schemes have generally been regarded as an effective and cost-efficient way to promote electricity from renewable energy sources (RES-E). The theoretical analysis of the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of TGC schemes has traditionally taken place assuming perfect competition in, both the electricity and TGC markets. However, these markets may not approach the conditions of a perfectly competitive market. This paper analyses the influence of market power in, both, the TGC and electricity markets on RES-E deployment, cost-effectiveness and cost distribution. The major conclusion is that market power should not be a concern. Market power does not affect the effectiveness of a quota with TGC system, i.e., it does not affect RES-E deployment, although market power on the supply side of markets may negatively affect the cost-effectiveness of the system and increase the cost burden for electricity consumers.
Assessment of Tidal Current Resources: Case Studies of Estuarine and Coastal Sites
Authors: Hardisty Jack
Published: May 2007

The potential for tidal stream power in North Western European waters is large and a number of axial flow, vertical rotor and oscillating hydroplane schemes are approaching full scale design and construction. The accurate determination of the available or potential fluid power is being addressed by, in particular, the regulatory bodies as they move towards the establishment of industry standards and the identification and designation of licensing areas. A generic formulation is developed here which utilises Admiralty tidal diamond data and the arithmetic summation of harmonics due to the lunar semi-diurnal, the solar semi-diurnal and (for shallow water and estuarine sites) the lunar quarter diurnal components. Numerical and sensitivity analyses show that the long term potential power is sensitive to the amplitudes of the harmonics but insensitive to the frequencies and phase differences. The results are applied to estuarine sites off Immingham and at Hull Roads in the Humber and to a shallow water, coastal site off Weston-super-Mare in the Bristol Channel. The results indicate that the shore side energy output from a small scale, meso-generation, 100 m2 capture area device with 60% efficiency varies from about 600 MWha−1 in the Bristol Channel to about 900 MWha−1 in the Humber where the ebb dominated tide flows for longer durations and at slightly higher speeds.
Ockham on Judgment, Concepts, and The Problem of Intentionality
Authors: Brower-Toland Susan
Published: May 2007

Introduction

In this paper I examine William Ockham's theory of judgment — in particular, his account of the nature and ontological Status of its objects. ‘Judgment’ (Latiniudicio)is the expression Ockham and other medieval thinkers use to refer to a certain subset of what philosophers nowadays call ‘propositional attitudes’. Judgments include all and only those mental states in which a subject not only entertains a given propositional content, but also takes some positive stance with respect to its truth. For Ockham, therefore, as for other medievals, a judgment is a type of mental State that includes attitudes such as belief, knowledge, opinion, doubt, faith, and so on.
Mental Overpopulation and Mental Action: Protecting Intentions from Mental Birth Control
Authors: Buckareff Andrei A.
Published: May 2007

Many, I suspect most, philosophers of action afford intentions a central role in theorizing about action and its explanation. Furthermore, current orthodoxy in the philosophy of action has it that intentions play a causal role with respect to the etiology and explanation of action. But action theory is not without its heretics. Some philosophers have challenged the orthodox view. In this paper I will examine and critique one such challenge. I will consider David-Hillel Ruben's case against the need for intentions to play a causal role in the etiology and explanation ofmentalactions.ContraRuben, I will defend the orthodox view that intentions play an indispensable causal and explanatory role with respect to mental actions.
On Benefiting from Injustice
Authors: Butt Daniel
Published: May 2007

How do we acquire moral obligations to others? The most straightforward cases are those where we acquire obligations as the result of particular actions which we voluntarily perform. If I promise you that I will trim your hedge, I face a moral Obligation to uphold my promise, and in the absence of some morally significant countervailing reason, I should indeed cut your hedge. Moral obligations which arise as a result of wrongdoing, as a function of corrective justice, are typically thought to be of a similar nature.
Public Reason and Moral Compromise
Authors: Lister Andrew
Published: May 2007

One source of controversy surrounding John Rawls's later work — a source
of both criticism and praise — has been the impression that he abandoned the
philosophical project of figuring out what is truly just, in favour of the
political project of working out a feasible consensus for people from a
particular political tradition. One aspect of this controversy is the
question of whether Rawls could advance his theory as being worthy of
endorsement on the basis of good reasons without also claiming it to be
true. In preferring to claim reasonableness rather than truth, Rawls's main
concern seems to have been to distinguish the ‘whole truth’ as represented
by a particular comprehensive religious or philosophical doctrine, from the
truth about politics given that reasonable people will inevitably disagree
about the whole truth.
Pirates, Kings and Reasons to Ad: Moral Motivation and the Role of
Sanctions in Locke's Moral Theory
Authors: Sheridan Patricia
Published: May 2007

Locke's moral theory consists of two explicit and distinct elements — a
broadly rationalist theory of natural law and a hedonistic conception of
moral good. The rationalist account, which we find most prominently in his
early Essays on the Law of Nature, is generally
taken to consist in three things. First, Locke holds that our moral rules
are founded on universal, divine natural laws. Second, such moral laws are
taken to be discoverable by reason. Third, by dint of their divine
authorship, moral laws are obligatory and rationally discernible as such.
Locke's hedonism, which is developed most fully in his later
Essay Concerning Human Understanding,
consists in the view that all good amounts to pleasure, with specifically
moral good taken to consist in the
pleasurable consequences of discharging one's moral duties.
The Testing Culture in one Rural Mississippi School
Authors: Lamb John H
Published: May 2007

State assessments are taking over our classrooms. This study provides a descriptive account of how the testing culture affected students and instruction during one school year in two small, rural Mississippi secondary mathematics classrooms. Throughout this school year, engaging instructional activities were sacrificed for more traditional drill and practice lessons aligned specifically with the end-of-the-year assessments. Curriculum was limited and teaching to the test was emphasized, especially during the weeks just prior to the assessments. Students found the assessments to be motivational, but like the instructor, students experienced pressures associated with these tests.
High School Department Chairs - Perspectives on Instructional Supervision
Authors: Zepeda Sally J. , Kruskamp Bill
Published: May 2007

A case study approach was used to examine the perspectives of three high school department chairs and their work at providing instructional supervision to the teachers in their departments: math, science, and social studies. We sought to discover the beliefs and practices of three department chairs in one high school, located in a southeastern state. From interview data, three primary findings emerged: 1) The high school department chairs experienced role conflict and ambiguity relative to providing instructional supervision; 2) The meaning of instructional supervision for the department chairs was intuitive and reflected in differentiated approaches; and 3) The constraints of instructional supervision include time and lack of emphasis. The findings indicate that the department chairs were not prepared for the practice of instructional supervision in that the participants received little instruction to enact the role of instructional supervisor, and the participants were compelled to create their own roles given the lack of direction by the principal. The participants indicated instructional supervision was not a "priority" of either system or local school administrators. The participants did evidence some important knowledge concerning instructional supervision, albeit intuitively concluded rather than formally learned.
Free Prefix Ordering in Chintang
Authors: Bickel Balthasar , Banjade Goma , Gaenszle Martin , Lieven Elena , Paudyal Netra Prasad , Rai Ichchha Purna , Rai Manoj , Rai Novel Kishore , Stoll Sabine
Published: May 2007

This article demonstrates prefix permutability in Chintang (Sino-Tibetan, Nepal) that is not constrained by any semantic or morphosyntactic structure, or by any dialect, sociolect, or idiolect choice—a phenomenon ruled out by standard assumptions about grammatical words. The prefixes are fully fledged parts of grammatical words and are different from clitics on a large number of standard criteria. The analysis of phonological word domains suggests that prefix permutability is a side-effect of prosodic subcategorization: prefixes occur in variable orders because each prefix and each stem element project a phonological word of their own, and each such word can host a prefix, at any position.
Articulatory Features for Describing Lexical Distinctions
Authors: Ladefoged Peter
Published: May 2007

The sounds that distinguish words in the world’s languages can be described in terms of properties that are often called (distinctive) features. The best-known attempts to describe sounds in this way are the acoustic features of Jakobson, Fant, and Halle (1952) and the innate cognitive abilities described by the feature theory of Chomsky and Halle (1968). This article provides a more comprehensive answer to the problem of specifying contrasting segments, but one that still leaves some questions open. It also considers the constraints on possible combinations of features, using a development of the notion of a feature hierarchy suggested by Clements (1985)
Adsorptive stripping voltammetric determination of the anti-inflammatory drug tolmetin in bulk form, pharmaceutical formulation and human serum
Authors: Beltagi Amr , El-Attar Mona , Ghoneim Enass
Published: May 2007

The electro-reduction of tolmetin at the hanging mercury drop electrode was studied in different supporting electrolytes using cyclic voltammetry and square-wave stripping voltammetry techniques. Voltammograms of tolmetin exhibited a single well-defined 2-electron irreversible cathodic peak in media of pH C=O double bond of the analyte molecule. Adsorption of tolmetin onto the surface of the hanging mercury electrode was identified and each adsorbed tolmetin molecule was found to occupy an area of 0.23 nm2. A square-wave adsorptive cathodic stripping voltammetric procedure was described for the direct determination of tolmetin in bulk form and pharmaceutical formulation (Rumatol® capsules) with a limit of quantitation of 2 × 10−9 M and a mean percentage recovery of 98.35 ± 1.21% to 99.57 ± 1.23. Moreover, the described procedure was successfully applied for the direct assay of tolmetin in spiked human serum without pretreatment or extraction prior to the analysis while a quantitation limit of 5 × 10−9 M tolmetin was achieved.
On the symmetry of magnetic structures in terms of the fibre bundles
Authors: Warczewski Jerzy , Gusin Paweł , Śliwińska Tamara , Urban Grzegorz , Krok-Kowalski Józef
Published: May 2007

The paper concerns the application of the fibre bundle approach to the description of the magnetic structures and their symmetry groups. Hence the explicit formulas describing both the variety of magnetic structures and their symmetry groups have been derived. The assumption was made that the bundle sections correspond to magnetizations of the separate crystal planes multiplied by a certain Gaussian factor defined in ℝ3, the last factor making the problem continuous and more physical.
Comparison of mandibular motion in horses chewing hay and pellets
Authors: BONIN S. J. , CLAYTON H. M. , LANOVAZ J. L. , JOHNSTON T.
Published: May 2007

Reasons for performing study: Previous studies have suggested that temporomandibular joint (TMJ) kinematics depend on the type of food being masticated, but accurate measurements of TMJ motion in horses chewing different feeds have not been published.

Hypothesis: The temporomandibular joint has a larger range of motion when horses chew hay compared to pellets.

Methods: An optical motion capture system was used to track skin markers on the skull and mandible of 7 horses as they chewed hay and pellets. A virtual marker was created on the midline between the mandibles at the level of the 4th premolar teeth to represent the overall motion of the mandible relative to the skull during the chewing cycle.

Results: Frequency of the chewing cycles was lower for hay than for pellets. Excursions of the virtual mandibular marker were significantly larger in all 3 directions when chewing hay compared to pellets. The mean velocity of the virtual mandibular marker during the chewing cycle was the same when chewing the 2 feeds.

Conclusions: The range of mediolateral displacement of the mandible was sufficient to give full occlusal contact of the upper and lower dental arcades when chewing hay but not when chewing pellets.

Potential relevance: These findings support the suggestion that horses receiving a diet high in concentrate feeds may require more frequent dental prophylactic examinations and treatments to avoid the development of dental irregularities associated with smaller mandibular excursions during chewing.
Seroprevalence of antibotulinum neurotoxintype Cantibodies in horses in Israel
Authors: STEINMAN A. , KACHTAN I. , LEVI O. , SHPIGEL N. Y.
Published: May 2007

Reasons for performing study: Clostridium botulinum type Cis prevalent in Israel and outbreaks recorded in many species, other than horses. Association between levels of anti‐BoNT/C antibodies and equine grass sickness (EGS) have been demonstrated but seroprevalence of anti‐BoNT/C antibodies in horses has not been reported nor has EGS been reported in Israel.

Objectives: To determine the seroprevalence of specific anti‐BoNT/C antibodies in horses in Israel and to determine whether age, breed and gender, or geographical region of farms are potential risk factors for exposure to BoNT/C.

Hypothesis: Anti‐BoNT/C antibodies are prevalent among horses in Israel and farm and horse‐level variables are associated with increased risk for exposure.

Methods: Serum samples from 198 horses were collected and the levels of specific anti‐BoNT/C antibodies were determined using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). For each categorical variable indicator variables were created and the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) for the outcome variable were calculated using a univariable and multivariable logistic regression models.

Results: A total of 61 (30.8%) horses were ELISA positive for anti‐BoNT/C IgG antibodies. The farm and its geographical region were associated significantly with seropositivity, horse‐level variables, such as gender and breed, were also associated with seropositivity. Quarter Horse and Warmblood mares placed in the southern region of Israel had the highest odds to be tested positive for anti‐BoNT/C IgG antibodies.

Conclusions and potential relevance: Several farm and various horse‐level risk factors for exposure to BoNT/C, found in this study, could be correlated to previously reported risk factors of EGS. Studies are required to determine the predisposing factors that cause EGS, which is apparently not present in Israel.
A region on equine chromosome 13 is linked to recurrent airway obstruction in horses
Authors: JOST U. , KLUKOWSKA‐RÖTZLER J. , DOLF G. , SWINBURNE J. E. , RAMSEYER A. , BUGNO M. , BURGER D. , BLOTT S. , GERBER V.
Published: May 2007

Reasons for study: Equine recurrent airway obstruction (RAO) is probably dependent on a complex interaction of genetic and environmental factors and shares many characteristic features with human asthma. Interleukin 4 receptor α chain (IL4RA) is a candidate gene because of its role in the development of human asthma, confirmation of this association is therefore required.

Methods: The equine BAC clone containing the IL4RA gene was localised to ECA13q13 by the FISH method. Microsatellite markers in this region were investigated for possible association and linkage with RAO in 2 large Warmblood halfsib families. Based on a history of clinical signs (coughing, nasal discharge, abnormal breathing and poor performance), horses were classified in a horse owner assessed respiratory signs index (HOARSI 1–4: from healthy, mild, moderate to severe signs). Four microsatellite markers (AHT133, LEX041, VHL47, ASB037) were analysed in the offspring of Sire 1 (48 unaffected HOARSI 1 vs. 59 affected HOARSI 2–4) and Sire 2 (35 HOARSI 1 vs. 50 HOARSI 2–4), age ≥7 years.

Results: For both sires haplotypes could be established in the order AHT133‐LEX047‐VHL47‐ASB37. The distances in this order were estimated to be 2.9, 0.9 and 2.3 centiMorgans, respectively. Haplotype association with mild to severe clinical signs of chronic lower airway disease (HOARSI 2–4) was significant in the offspring of Sire 1 (P = 0.026) but not significant for the offspring of Sire 2 (P = 0.32). Linkage analysis showed the ECA13q13 region containing IL4RA to be linked to equine chronic lower airway disease in one family (P<0.01), but not in the second family.

Conclusions: This supports a genetic background for equine RAO and indicates that IL4RA is a candidate gene with possible locus heterogeneity for this disease.

Potential relevance: Identification of major genes for RAO may provide a basis for breeding and individual prevention for this important disease.
Electrosurgery as the sole means of haemostasis during the laparoscopic removal of pathologically enlarged ovaries in mares: a report of 55 cases
Authors: LLOYD D. , WALMSLEY J. P. , GREET T. R. C. , PAYNE R. J. , NEWTON J. R. , PHILLIPS T. J.
Published: May 2007

Reasons for performing study: There is little published clinical evidence on the use of a laparoscopic approach for the removal of pathologically enlarged ovaries in standing mares.

Objectives: To show the orders of success and complication rates that can be expected if pathologically enlarged ovaries are removed from standing, sedated mares under laparoscopic guidance using only electrosurgical means of haemostasis.

Methods: A retrospective analysis was made of 55 mares in which the removal of an enlarged ovary was attempted by applying a standard laparoscopic procedure for routine ovariectomy in standing mares including a reliance solely on one of 2 types of electrosurgical bipolar forceps with an integrated guillotine for haemostasis and transection of the ovarian pedicle. The outcomes and complications encountered were recorded. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the risk of any complications associated with the size of the ovary removed and the instrument used.

Results: In 54 of the 55 mares, the surgery was successfully accomplished by the planned approach. In one mare there was significant intraoperative haemorrhage and this necessitated the additional use of a prosthetic haemostatic device. The only other complications encountered were post operative abdominal discomfort (n = 9), delayed incisional wound healing (n = 6) and iatrogenic uterine puncture (n = 2). One mare developed a rectal tear, but not as a direct complication of the surgical procedure. None of these prevented a long‐term successful outcome.

Conclusions: The removal of pathologically enlarged ovaries (up to 30 cm diameter) from mares under standing sedation can be accomplished predictably and safely by applying the standard laparoscopic approach that is established for routine laparoscopic ovariectomy, including a reliance solely on endoscopic electrosurgery instruments for haemostasis of the ovarian pedicle.

Potential relevance: This study shows that the simple standing laparoscopic technique now favoured for routine ovariectomy can be used safely and reliably for the removal of pathologically enlarged ovaries. This promises to be of significant clinical advantage to mares so affected.
The effect of induced forelimb lameness on thoracolumbar kinematics during treadmill locomotion
Authors: ALVAREZ C. B. GOMEZ , WENNERSTRAND J. , BOBBERT M. F. , LAMERS L. , JOHNSTON C. , BACK W. , WEEREN P. R. van
Published: May 2007

Reasons for performing study: Lameness has often been suggested to result in altered movement of the back, but there are no detailed studies describing such a relationship in quantitative terms.

Objectives: To quantify the effect of induced subtle forelimb lameness on thoracolumbar kinematics in the horse.

Methods: Kinematics of 6 riding horses was measured at walk and at trot on a treadmill before and after the induction of reversible forelimb lamenessgrade 2(AAEP scale 1–5). Ground reaction forces (GRF) for individual limbs were calculated from kinematics.

Results: The horses significantly unloaded the painful limb by 11.5% at trot, while unloading at walk was not significant. The overall flexion‐extension range of back motion decreased on average by 0.2° at walk and increased by 3.3° at trot (P<0.05). Changes in angular motion patterns of vertebral joints were noted only at trot, with an increase in flexion of 0.9° at T10 (i.e. angle between T6, T10 and T13) during the stance phase of the sound diagonal and an increase in extension of the thoracolumbar area during stance of the lame diagonal (0.7° at T13, 0.8° at T17, 0.5° at L1, 0.4° at L3 and 0.3° at L5) (P<0.05). Lameness further caused a lateral bending of the cranial thoracic vertebral column towards the lame side (1.3° at T10 and 0.9° at T13) (P<0.05) during stance of the lame diagonal.

Conclusions: Both range of motion and vertebral angular motion patterns are affected by subtle forelimb lameness. At walk, the effect is minimal, at trot the horses increased the vertebral range of motion and changed the pattern of thoracolumbar motion in the sagittal and horizontal planes, presumably in an attempt to move the centre of gravity away from the lame side and reduce the force on the affected limb.

Potential relevance: Subtle forelimb lameness affects thoracolumbar kinematics. Future studies should aim at elucidating whether the altered movement patterns lead to back and/or neck dysfunction in the case of chronic lameness.
Histological evaluation of the equine larynx after unilateral laser‐assisted ventriculocordectomy
Authors: ROBINSON P. , WILLIAMS K. J. , SULLINS K. E. , ARNOCZKY S. P. , STICK J. A. , ROBINSON N. E. , FEIJTER‐RUPP H. de , DERKSEN F. J.
Published: May 2007

Reasons for performing study: Trans‐endoscopic laser surgery, such as unilateral laser‐assisted ventriculocordectomy (LVC), has gained popularity in the treatment of RLN because a laryngotomy incision or general anaesthesia are not required. However, removal of the vocal fold and ventricle takes considerable laser energy and could cause collateral tissue damage, including injury to the adjacent laryngeal cartilages.

Objectives: To document the histological effects of laser surgery on laryngeal tissues in horses that have undergone LVC for the treatment of laryngeal hemiplegia (LH).

Methods: Six horses were used: 4 with experimentally induced LH that had subsequently undergone LVC 6 months prior to euthanasia; and, 2 horses were used as controls. One of the control horses with naturally occurring LH was used to study the effect of neuropathy alone, whereas the other was subjected to euthanasia immediately following LVC to evaluate the acute effect of laser surgery. Using a band saw, each larynx was sectioned transversely at 5 mm intervals and evaluated histologically.

Results: Acutely, LVC caused thermal damage to adjacent soft tissues but did not affect the histology of the laryngeal cartilages. Six months after LVC, laryngeal cartilages were histologically normal and there was squamous metaplasia of the repaired laryngeal mucosa, resulting in restitution of the mucosal integrity.

Conclusions: Using a diode laser in contact fashion at 20 W, LVC can be used to remove the laryngeal vocal fold and ventricle without causing laryngeal cartilage damage.

Potential relevance: Laryngeal chondritis is an unlikely consequence of LVC.
Effect of extracorporeal shock wave therapy on the biochemical composition and metabolic activity of tenocytes in normal tendinous structures in ponies
Authors: BOSCH G. , LIN Y. L. , van SCHIE H. T. M. , van DE LEST C. H. A. , BARNEVELD A. , van WEEREN P. R.
Published: May 2007

Reasons for performing study: Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) has recently been introduced as a new therapy for tendon injuries in horses, but little is known about the basic mechanism of action of this therapy.

Objectives: To study the effect of ESWT on biochemical parameters and tenocyte metabolism of normal tendinous structures in ponies.

Methods: Six Shetland ponies, free of lameness and with ultrasonographically normal flexor and extensor tendons and suspensory ligaments (SL), were used. ESWT was applied at the origin of the suspensory ligament and the midmetacarpal region of the superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) 6 weeks prior to sample taking, and at the midmetacarpal region (ET) and the insertion on the extensor process of the distal phalanx (EP) of the common digital extensor tendon 3 h prior to tendon sampling. In all animals one front leg was treated and the other front leg was used as control. After euthanasia, tendon explants were harvested aseptically for in vitro cell culture experiments and additional samples were taken for biochemical analyses.

Results: In the explants harvested 3 h after treatment, glycosaminoglycan (GAG) and protein syntheses were increased (P<0.05). The synthesis of all measured parameters was decreased 6 weeks after ESWT treatment. Biochemically, the level of degraded collagen was increased 3 h after treatment (P<0.05). Six weeks after treatment, there was a decrease of degraded collagen and GAG contents. DNA content had not changed in either tendon samples or explants after culturing.

Conclusions: ESWT causes a transient stimulation of metabolism in tendinous structures of ponies shortly after treatment. After 6 weeks metabolism has decreased significantly and GAG levels are lower than in untreated control limbs.

Potential relevance: The stimulating short‐term effect of ESWT might accelerate the initiation of the healing process in injured tendons. The long‐term effect seems less beneficial. Further research should aim at determining the duration of this effect and at assessing its relevance for end‐stage tendon quality.
In search of clinical truths: equine and comparative studies of anatomy
Authors: LATORRE R. , RODRIGUEZ M. J.
Published: May 2007

The importance of correlating anatomical studies with diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in practice has long been recognised. Such studies in the horse have, until recently, lagged behind this discipline in human medicine and surgery. Clinical techniques by which this correlation is achieved include radiography, ultrasound, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging.

This review presents published literature on the subject and, in addition, describes the part played by plastination, a recently developed technique for the preservation of biological specimens. In this, tissue fluids and part of the lipids are replaced by certain polymers yielding specimens that can be handled without gloves, do not smell or decay, and even retain microscopic properties of the original sample. The technique has proved to be a useful tool to correct previously presented anatomical descriptions and is one now favoured by human surgeons. Studies of the horse employing this technique include those of the temporomandibular joint and tarsus. The aim of the review is to stimulate further correlations of anatomical structure and equine medical and surgical procedures, thereby advancing knowledge and understanding in practice and teaching.
Client-Centred Nutrition Counselling:Do We Know What This Means?
Authors: MacLellan Debbie L. , Berenbaum Shawna
Published: May 2007

In Canada, professional standards mandate that dietitians should use a client-centred approach to provide nutrition counselling services. Although most dietitians would probably agree that this is an important standard, how this mandate is translated into our daily practice is not always clear. The purpose of this paper is to explore the origins of the “client-centred approach” used in dietetic counselling. A historical review of selected dietetic literature is used to demonstrate the evolution of this term, the multiple meanings associated with it, the remaining ambiguity in dietetic practice today, and the need for further research.
Psychosocial Correlates of Nutritional Risk in Older Adults
Authors: Johnson C.S. Jacob
Published: May 2007

The psychosocial correlates of nutritional risk among older adults were examined in a study involving 54 people over age 65 (range, 65 to 98; average, 81), who were selected through a convenience sampling strategy. Measures included a background questionnaire, Mini Nutritional Assessment, Life Satisfaction Index Form Z, Geriatric Depression Scale, and Lubben's Social Network Scale. Seventeen percent of participants were found to be at risk of malnutrition. Compared with those who had adequate nutrition, at-risk participants had lower levels of social support (approaching statistical significance, p=0.08) and life satisfaction (not significant), and significantly higher levels of depression (p=0.04). Hierarchical multiple regression analysis showed that depression and social support were significant correlates of nutritional risk (p=0.01). Nutrition professionals should have a multidisciplinary perspective when they assess older adults’ nutritional status.
Nursing Home Food ServicesLinked with Risk of Malnutrition
Authors: Carrier Natalie , Ouellet Denise , West Gale E.
Published: May 2007

Purpose: Links between food service characteristics and residents’ risk of malnutrition were examined.

Methods: Cognitively intact residents meeting inclusion criteria and living in one of 38 participating nursing homes were randomly sampled. The final sample consisted of 132 residents, who were screened for risk of malnutrition and completed a face-to-face interview questionnaire about dining experiences. Additional data came from participants’ medical charts, and each institution's food service manager completed a written questionnaire. Frequencies and logistic regressions were used to describe the sample and to examine relationships between risk of malnutrition and food service characteristics.

Results: Overall, 37.4% of participants were at risk of malnutrition. Food service factors, including food packages, lids, and dishes that were difficult to manipulate (β=0.285, p=0.009), bulk food-delivery systems (β=1.329, p=0.036), overall food satisfaction (β=0.253, p=0.044), menu cycle length (β=-2.162, p=0.003), and porcelain dishes (β=-0.345, p=0.052), all were significantly associated with risk of malnutrition.

Conclusions: Our findings clearly show a need for nursing homes to modify certain aspects of food service that may increase the risk of malnutrition among cognitively intact residents.