bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validity and Reliability of a Persian Version of the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire
Authors: Garrusi Behshid , Nakhaee Nouzar
Published: July 2009

The purposes of this study were to translate the English version of the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire into Persian and to examine its psychometric properties. Reliability was examined using Cronbach coefficient alpha and corrected item-total correlation. A confirmatory factor analysis, based on a five-factor model, was performed using AMOS. Consecutive samples of 194 drug addicts, 197 psychiatric patients, and 599 college students were selected for the study. The mean age of participants ( N= 1,000) was 24.8 yr. ( SD = 7.1), and 49% were female. The test-retest reliability coefficient and the internal consistency reliability coefficient for the whole scale were suitable. The Childhood Trauma Questionnaire exhibited acceptable convergent validity with the General Health Questionnaire. A four-factor solution was selected as the most appropriate model using exploratory principal component analysis with oblique rotation. In conclusion, the Persian version of the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire showed acceptable psychometric properties.
Sex Differences in Relations among Remembered Parental Behavior in Childhood, Adults' Current Psychological Adjustment, and Career Indecision
Authors: Rohner Ronald P. , Rising David G. , Sayre-Scibona Jessica
Published: July 2009

The goal was to assess sex differences in career indecision's association with different levels of self-reported psychological adjustment and with different remembrances of maternal and paternal acceptance and behavioral control in childhood. 126 participants responded to the Career Decision Scale, the Adult version of the Parental Acceptance-Rejection/Control Questionnaire, and the Adult version of the Personality Assessment Questionnaire. Results showed that career indecision among women but not men was significantly correlated with remembered maternal and paternal acceptance in childhood, as well as with self-reported psychological adjustment and age. Only women's self-reported psychological adjustment made a unique contribution to variance in reported career indecision. No predictor variables were significantly associated with career indecision among men.
Differences in Anxiety Scores of College Students from Germany, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the USA
Authors: Abdel-Khalek Ahmed M. , Maltby John
Published: July 2009

A sample of 243 (114 men, 129 women) British university undergraduates responded to the Kuwait University Anxiety Scale in English. Their scores were compared with scores for 207 German, 312 Spanish, and 320 USA students previously tested. Analysis showed German men had the lowest mean score across the male groups, as did German women across the female groups. Women from the USA had the highest mean anxiety score. Sex differences for scores on the scale were significant only in the samples from Spain and the USA, with women scoring higher than men.
Predictors of Job Satisfaction among Academics at an Iranian University
Authors: Zarafshani Kiumars , Alibaygi Amir Hossein
Published: July 2009

The overall job satisfaction of 128 faculty of Razi University in Iran was investigated using a modified version of the Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire to elicit information in this stratified random sample. Faculty members were most satisfied with intrinsic aspects of the work such as “social service,” “activity,” and “ability utilization” and less satisfied with extrinsic aspects of work such as “security,” “university policies,” and “compensation.” Publication counts and years of teaching experience contributed significantly to the prediction of overall job satisfaction among these faculty members. Intervention efforts must involve socializing faculty in the early stages of their careers, encouraging them to engage in research activities and write for reputable journals, while providing compensation and job security.
Attachment as a Component of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Niederhofer Helmut
Published: July 2009

As Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder-like symptoms may reflect a somatic disorder or interactional problems of the child and parents or have a genetic basis, the ADHD-like symptoms seem as important as a genetic interpretation. This holds also for therapeutic interventions. In the clinic, 101 children with ADHD-like symptoms were assessed. Attachment classification was based on responses to the Parent-Child Reunion Inventory. Of 79 insecurely attached patients, 72 presented ADHD-like symptoms, whereas only 5 of 22 securely attached showed such symptoms.
Autumn Migration Dynamics and Biometrical Differentiation of the Dunnock (Prunella modularis) Passing the Southern Baltic Coast
Authors: Zaniewicz Grzegorz , Busse Przemysław
Published: July 2009

Autumn Migration Dynamics and Biometrical Differentiation of the Dunnock (Prunella modularis) Passing the Southern Baltic Coast

The aim of this study is to determine biometrical differentiation among Dunnocks caught at the two ringing sites (Bukowo-Kopań and Mierzeja Wiślana) located on the southern Baltic coast. The distance between those two stations covers 190 km. The material was collected during autumn fieldwork of the Operation Baltic in 1961-2003. The material used for biometrical analysis comprises only immature birds from the period of the most intensive migration, when the numbers of caught individuals allowed to compare the results for both stations. The seasonal dynamics at both sites was pooled for 43 years of catching. Medians of autumn migration for the stations were significantly different. A shift of the median for the eastern site (Mierzeja Wiślana) by 6 days after the median for the western site (Bukowo-Kopań) suggested different origins of birds migrating through the stations. The analysis of standard deviations for the studied biometrical parameters confirms an intra-seasonal change in proportions of birds probably originating from different areas in Europe.
Against ethnicity
Authors: Richards Paul
Published: July 2009

Ethnicity—once the preserve of anthropologists and folklorists studying disappearing tribal and peasant cultures—has become an important element in the models and explanations of a broader community of social scientists seeking to comprehend post-Cold War social disorder. But is ethnicity equivalent to variables such as resource competition or poverty? Ethnicity can be viewed as an epiphenomenon. The argument has major consequences for the way ethnic conflicts are analyzed and resolved. The article considers neo-Durkheimian conceptual tools for uncovering mechanisms generative of ethnic epiphenomena, and explores a neo-Durkheimian approach to conflict resolution. Specifically, Mary Douglas's ideas on ring composition are extended to include the ethnomusicological project of the Hungarian composer Béla Bartók, and then applied to epiphenomena emerging from the protracted civil conflict in the West African country of Sierra Leone.
Inventing "women's history"
Authors: Sen Atreyee
Published: July 2009

This article focuses on oral traditions created by slum women affiliated with the Hindu nationalist Shiv Sena movement in Bombay, and explores the ways in which these invented traditions allowed marginalized women to enter a martial, masculinist "Hindu" history. It shows how poor, rough women used the limited resources available in the slums, especially in the context of rising communal hostilities, to gain a "respectable past." Furthermore, the article analyzes how everyday practices and performances of women's strategic "history-telling" worked to politically mobilize poor women cadres and impacted gender dynamics in contested urban spaces. The invention of traditions of female martiality reflects the potential of right-wing political women to assert a controversial position within the dominantly patriarchal structures of the slums in particular, and the extremist movement in general. The article discusses the mytho-histories told by women to negotiate their present gendered social environment; paradoxically, the martial content of these historical stories also allowed women to nurture a perpetual threat of communal discord and renegotiate their position with male cadres within a violent movement.
Land expropriation, protest, and impunity in rural China
Authors: Zhao Bo
Published: July 2009

Conflicts over rural land expropriation, which have intensified over the past decade in China, pose a significant threat to the country's social stability and the sustainability of its economic development. This article argues that such conflicts are inevitable under China's current political and legal system. After a brief introduction of the present situation in China and an overview of China's land regime, the article first analyzes reasons for the escalation of land conflicts, including the vague definition of public interest, the inadequate compensation, and the ambiguous nature of collective land ownership. It then argues that even the few existing rights of rural peasants under the present land regime are not adequately protected due to China's poor law enforcement. The article further elucidates that impunity with regard to illegal land grabbing is common in China for a variety of reasons that all have roots in the Communist Party's monopoly over Chinese society. With no fundamental reform to China's party politics, the article concludes, there will be no effective measure to prevent further conflicts over land in the near future.
Unusual sequestered disc fragments simulating spinal tumors and other space-occupying lesions
Authors: Nievas Mario Nazareno Carviy , Hoellerhage Hans-Georg
Published: July 2009

Object

In this study the authors evaluated disease incidence, treatment, and outcome in patients with unusual sequestered disc fragments simulating spinal tumors or another space-occupying lesion on preoperative MR imaging.

Methods

The authors retrospectively reviewed data from the last 3000 patients with a histological diagnosis of disc herniation. Patients with preoperative MR imaging findings that simulated a spinal tumor or other spaceoccupying lesion were individually analyzed.

Results

In 11 patients (0.4%), MR imaging findings of unusual sequestered disc fragments were mistaken for another spinal space-occupying lesion. In 8 cases, the fragments had migrated to the posterior spinal space; in 3 cases, into the dural sac. In 3 patients, the fragments were distant from the original disc space. A heterogeneous mass was revealed with low-intensity or isointense signal on T1-weighted MR images as well as low signal (4 cases) or high signal (7 cases) intensity on T2-weighted images, relative to the spinal structures. A slight diffuse or peripheral Gd enhancement rim was observed in 7 patients. Disc fragments were located in the cervical (1 patient), thoracic (2 patients), and lumbar (8 patients) spine. All lesions were completely removed. Discectomy was required in 4 patients. A complete recovery occurred in 8 patients and a minor neurological deficit remained in 3.

Conclusions

Atypically located disc herniations should be considered in the differential diagnosis in patients with MR imaging data indicating spinal space-occupying disorders. All of these lesions, even those intradurally located, can be completely removed.
Radiographic and clinical evaluation of free-hand placement of C-2 pedicle screws
Authors: Sciubba Daniel M. , Noggle Joseph C. , Vellimana Ananth K. , Alosh Hassan , McGirt Matthew J. , Gokaslan Ziya L. , Wolinsky Jean-Paul
Published: July 2009

Object

Stabilization of the cervical spine can be challenging when instrumentation involves the axis. Fixation with C1–2 transarticular screws combined with posterior wiring and bone graft placement has yielded excellent fusion rates, but the technique is technically demanding and places the vertebral arteries (VAs) at risk. Placement of screws in the pars interarticularis of C-2 as described by Harms and Melcher has allowed rigid fixation with greater ease and theoretically decreases the risk to the VA. However, fluoroscopy is suggested to avoid penetration laterally, medially, and superiorly to avoid damage to the VA, spinal cord, and C1–2 joint, respectively. The authors describe how, after meticulous dissection of the C-2 pars interarticularis, such screws can be placed accurately and safely without the use of fluoroscopy.

Methods

Prospective follow-up was performed in 55 consecutive patients who underwent instrumented fusion of C-2 by a single surgeon. The causes of spinal instability and type and extent of instrumentation were documented. All patients underwent preoperative CT or MR imaging scans to determine the suitability of C-2 screw placement. Intraoperatively, screws were placed following dissection of the posterior pars interarticularis. Postoperative CT scans were performed to determine the extent of cortical breach. Patients underwent clinical follow-up, and complications were recorded as vascular or neurological. A CT-based grading system was created to characterize such breaches objectively by location and magnitude via percentage of screw diameter beyond the cortical edge (0 = none; I = < 25% of screw diameter; II = 26–50%; III = 51–75%; IV = 76–100%).

Results

One-hundred consecutive screws were placed in the pedicle of the axis by a single surgeon using external landmarks only. In 10 cases, only 1 screw was placed because of a preexisting VA anatomy or bone abnormality noted preoperatively. In no case was screw placement aborted because of complications noted during drilling. Early complications occurred in 2 patients and were limited to 1 wound infection and 1 transient C-2 radiculopathy. There were 15 total breaches (15%), 2 of which occurred in the same patient. Twelve breaches were lateral (80%), and 3 were superior (20%). There were no medial breaches. The magnitude of the breach was classified as I in 10 cases (66.7% of breaches), II in 3 cases (20% of breaches), III in 1 case (6.7%), and IV in 1 case (6.7%).

Conclusions

Free-hand placement of screws in the C-2 pedicle can be done safely and effectively without the use of intraoperative fluoroscopy or navigation when the pars interarticularis/pedicle is assessed preoperatively with CT or MR imaging and found to be suitable for screw placement. When breaches do occur, they are overwhelmingly lateral in location, breach < 50% of the screw diameter, and in the authors' experience, are not clinically significant.
Simplified harvest of autologous pericranium for duraplasty in Chiari malformation Type I
Authors: Stevens E. Andrew , Powers Alexander K. , Sweasey Thomas A. , Tatter Stephen B. , Ojemann Robert G.
Published: July 2009

The authors describe a method of harvesting autologous pericranium for duraplasty in patients with Chiari malformation Type I (CM-I) that avoids excessive exposure or a second incision. Nonautologous dural grafts have been associated with numerous complications including hemorrhage, bacteria and virus transmission, fatal Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease transmission, foreign body reaction, systemic immune response, excessive scarring, slower healing, premature graft dissolution, and wound dehiscence. Autogenous tissues have the advantage of being nonimmunogenic, nontoxic, readily available, and inexpensive. Pericranium is a preferred substrate because it is flexible, strong, and easily sutured for a watertight closure. Current literature supports the use of autogenous pericranium for dural grafting in CM-I procedures, but has heretofore failed to provide a method of harvest that avoids the complications associated with a larger exposure or second incision. The authors offer a simple alternative technique for using local pericranium in duraplasty for CM-I or other posterior fossa abnormalities.
An unusual presentation of a solitary benign giant neurofibroma
Authors: Yang Liqun , Robertson Thomas , Tollesson Gert , Francis Leo , Campbell David , Winter Craig
Published: July 2009

The authors report on a 34-year-old man who presented with acute enlargement of an extraspinal mass secondary to a hemorrhage following minor trauma. The mass had been present from birth, had slowly enlarged over time, and previous imaging had suggested an extraspinal fibrolipoma measuring 10 × 6 × 4 cm. Following minor trauma (scratching the skin overlying the tumor), the mass rapidly enlarged to approximately double in size over a period of 4 hours. A CT scan and MR imaging confirmed an extraspinal tumor that was 15 × 11 × 11 cm, with an associated acute hematoma of similar dimensions. The patient was taken to the operating room for hematoma evacuation and tumor resection. Histopathological investigation identified a benign, diffuse neurofibroma with associated dysplastic blood vessels exhibiting irregular areas of tunica media and sinusoidal-like vascular channels. To the authors' knowledge, a solitary giant neurofibroma in a patient without neurofibromatosis presenting with acute enlargement secondary to hemorrhage following minor trauma has not been previously described. The authors suggest that the source of the acute hemorrhage may be related to the neurofibroma-associated vascular dysplasia and the resultant increased vascular fragility.
Revision characteristics of cement-augmented, cannulatedfenestrated pedicle screws in the osteoporotic vertebral body: a biomechanical in vitro investigation
Authors: Blattert Thomas R. , Glasmacher Stefan , Riesner Hans-Joachim , Josten Christoph
Published: July 2009

In generalized osteoporosis, instrumentation with cement-augmented pedicle screws is an amplification of the therapeutic spectrum. Early clinical results are promising for both solid and cannulated screws; however, there are concerns regarding the revision characteristics of these screws, especially for the cannulated-fenestrated type with its continuous cement interconnection from the core of the screw to surrounding bone tissue. In a human cadaver model, bone mineral density (BMD) was assessed radiographically. Spinal levels T9–L4 were instrumented left unilaterally, transpedicularly by using cannulated-fenestrated pedicle screws with the dimensions 6.5 × 45 mm. Polymethylmethacrylate cement (1.5 ml) was injected through the screws into each vertebra. After polymerization of the cement, the extraction torque was recorded. For both implantation and explantation of the screws, a fluoroscope was used to guarantee correct screw and cement positioning and to observe possible co-movements—that is, any movement of the cement mass within the vertebral body upon removal of the screw. For comparison, the extraction torque of same-dimension pedicle screws was recorded in a nonosteoporotic, non–cement-augmented instrumentation. The BMD was 0.60 g/cm2, a level that corresponds to a severe grade of osteoporosis. For removal of the screws, the median and mean extraction torques were 34 and 49 ± 44 Ncm, respectively. No co-movements of the cement mass occurred within the vertebral body. In the nonosteoporotic control, BMD was 1.38 g/cm2. The median and mean extraction torques were 123 and 124 ± 12 Ncm, respectively. Thus, the revision characteristics of cement-augmented, cannulated-fenestrated pedicle screws are not problematic, even in cases of severe osteoporosis. The winglike cement interconnection between the screw core and surrounding bone tissue is fragile enough to break off in the event of an extraction torque and to release the screw. There is no proof to support the theoretical fear that while trying to remove a screw, the composite of screw and cement would not break but instead would rotate as a whole in the osteoporotic vertebral body.
Vertical mobile and reducible atlantoaxial dislocation
Authors: Goel Atul , Shah Abhidha , Rajan Sanjay
Published: July 2009

Object

The authors' experience with treatment of 8 patients with “vertical mobile and reducible” atlantoaxial dislocation is reviewed. The probable pathogenesis, radiological and clinical features, and management issues in such cases are discussed.

Methods

Between January 2006 and March 2008, 8 patients who presented with vertical mobile and reducible atlantoaxial dislocations were treated at the Department of Neurosurgery at King Edward Memorial Hospital in Mumbai, India. The vertical atlantoaxial dislocation/basilar invagination reduced completely on extension of the neck, with no need of any cervical traction. According to the extent of superior migration of the odontoid process, and measurements based on the vertical atlantoaxial instability index, the dislocation was graded as mild, moderate, or severe. All patients were treated using the C-1 lateral mass and C-2 pars plate and screw method of fixation.

Results

The study group was composed of 5 male and 3 female patients (mean age 24 years, age range 8–54 years). All patients presented with the physical features of short neck, torticollis, pain in the nape of the neck, and varying degrees of quadriparesis. In 6 patients there was a history of trauma prior to the onset of major neurological symptoms. The dislocation was mild in 3 cases, moderate in 1, and severe in 4. All patients had clinical neurological improvement following surgery. The follow-up duration ranged from 4 to 30 months (mean 18 months).

Conclusions

Vertical mobile and reducible atlantoaxial dislocation is a discrete clinical entity. Abnormal inclination and incompetence of the facet joint appears to be the primary causative factor that resulted in vertical dislocation or basilar invagination. Posterior fixation in the reduced dislocation position forms the basis of treatment.
Symptomatic osteochondroma of the spine in elderly patients
Authors: Yagi Mitsuru , Ninomiya Ken , Kihara Michiya , Horiuchi Yukio
Published: July 2009

Whereas osteochondroma is a common benign bone tumor in adolescence, it is rarely observed in elderly patients. It is unknown why osteochondromas, which usually develop during skeletal growth, rarely develop in elderly patients. The authors report 3 cases of symptomatic spinal osteochondroma in elderly patients and discuss the possible reasons for the onset of the enlargement of osteochondromas in elderly patients.

Clinical history, radiographs, MR images, and CT myelography studies were obtained in each patient and are described. A review of the relevant literature is also presented. In the first case, the cervical osteochondroma caused spinal canal compression and occipital nerve irritation. It was totally excised, which successfully relieved the pain and allowed the patient to return to normal neurological function. In the second case, total removal of the tumor was effective in alleviating clinical symptoms. In the last case, ablation of the articular facet joint partially relieved the patient's lower-back pain. In the first 2 cases, the patients suffered from psoriasis and associated psoriatic arthritis and in the last case, the patient suffered from HIV-associated psoriatic arthritis. The psoriatic arthritis was characterized as asymmetric chronic multiple-joint arthritis and was HLA B27 positive. The pathology of psoriatic arthritis was the accelerating bone turnover and ankylosis.

Symptomatic osteochondroma of the spine in elderly patients is extremely rare since it typically develops during skeletal growth. In this report, the authors show that pathological accelerating bone turnover such as psoriatic arthritis may be a possible mechanism for the onset of the enlargement of osteochondromas in elderly patients. The age of the patients in this report suggests that growth of the osteochondroma continues after skeletal development.
Deep brain stimulation: current and future perspectives
Authors: Awan Nasir Raza , Lozano Andres , Hamani Clement
Published: July 2009

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has been used to treat various neurological and psychiatric disorders. Over the years, the most suitable surgical candidates and targets for some of these conditions have been characterized and the benefits of DBS well demonstrated in double-blinded randomized trials. This review will discuss some of the areas of current investigation and potential new applications of DBS.
In vivo performance of a microelectrode neural probe with integrated drug delivery
Authors: Rohatgi Pratik , Langhals Nicholas B. , Kipke Daryl R. , Patil Parag G.
Published: July 2009

Object

The availability of sophisticated neural probes is a key prerequisite in the development of future brain-machine interfaces (BMIs). In this study, the authors developed and validated a neural probe design capable of simultaneous drug delivery and electrophysiology recordings in vivo. Focal drug delivery promises to extend dramatically the recording lives of neural probes, a limiting factor to clinical adoption of BMI technology.

Methods

To form the multifunctional neural probe, the authors affixed a 16-channel microfabricated silicon electrode array to a fused silica catheter. Three experiments were conducted in rats to characterize the performance of the device. Experiment 1 examined cellular damage from probe insertion and the drug distribution in tissue. Experiment 2 measured the effects of saline infusions delivered through the probe on concurrent electrophysiological measurements. Experiment 3 demonstrated that a physiologically relevant amount of drug can be delivered in a controlled fashion. For these experiments, Hoechst and propidium iodide stains were used to assess insertion trauma and the tissue distribution of the infusate. Artificial CSF (aCSF) and tetrodotoxin (TTX) were injected to determine the efficacy of drug delivery.

Results

The newly developed multifunctional neural probes were successfully inserted into rat cortex and were able to deliver fluids and drugs that resulted in the expected electrophysiological and histological responses. The damage from insertion of the device into brain tissue was substantially less than the volume of drug dispersion in tissue. Electrophysiological activity, including both individual spikes as well as local field potentials, was successfully recorded with this device during real-time drug delivery. No significant changes were seen in response to delivery of aCSF as a control experiment, whereas delivery of TTX produced the expected result of suppressing all spiking activity in the vicinity of the catheter outlet.

Conclusions

Multifunctional neural probes such as the ones developed and validated within this study have great potential to help further understand the design space and criteria for the next generation of neural probe technology. By incorporating integrated drug delivery functionality into the probes, new treatment options for neurological disorders and regenerative neural interfaces using localized and feedback-controlled delivery of drugs can be realized in the near future.
Zinc in Broiler Feeding and Nutrition
Authors: Salim H.M. , Jo Cheorun , Lee B.D.
Published: July 2009

Zinc is an essential trace mineral for birds, functioning elaborately in enzyme systems and being involved in protein synthesis, carbohydrate metabolism, and many other biochemical reactions. Zinc is required for normal growth, reproduction, and glandular development of birds. A severe zinc deficiency causes numerous physical and pathological changes including skin lesions, decreased growth, general disability of bones and joints, very poor feathering, reproductive failure, and reduced immunity to infection of several diseases. In skin, it is five to six times more concentrated in the epidermis than the dermis. In addition, zinc is associated with wound healing because of its role in collagen and keratin syntheses. All proliferating cells, including inflammatory cells, epithelial cells, and fibroblast, require zinc. Furthermore, zinc is an essential element of more than 200 metalloenzymes and affects their conformity, stability, and activity. The superoxide dismutase, one of the zinc-containing antioxidant enzyme, has a critical role in keeping broiler skin healthy and increasing the shelf-life of broiler meat. However, a clear appreciation of the role of this element in broiler production is still limited. This article provides an overview on the role of zinc in broiler feeding and nutrition, immunity, reproduction, and meat quality in particular.
Response of Laying Hens to Vitamin C Supplementation through Drinking Water under Sub-Tropical Conditions
Authors: Ahmed Waseem , Ahmad Shakeel , Ahsan-ul-haq  , Kamran Zahid
Published: July 2009

Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) was evaluated for its effects on production performance, and plasma ascorbic acid, blood glucose and serum cholesterol levels in heat-stressed laying hens. One hundred and fifty, 72-week-old single comb white Leghorn hens in their second laying year cycle were kept at high ambient environmental temperature (average of 34.5°C; range 28–42°C) throughout the experimental period of 12 weeks. Three levels of vitamin C, 0, 1,000, or 1,200 ppm, were supplemented through drinking water to the treatment groups A (control), B and C, respectively. Hen-housed egg production, efficiency for feed conversion, egg weight and egg mass were improved ( P<0.01) in birds receiving vitamin C supplementation when compared to the control birds. Shell thickness was higher ( P<0.01) in birds receiving 1,000 ppm vitamin C supplementation compared to those of other groups. However, feed intake, water consumption and rectal temperature of hens were not influenced ( P >0.05) by vitamin C supplementation. The birds without vitamin C supplementation showed a higher mortality ( P<0.05) among them. The birds receiving vitamin C supplementation had significantly ( P<0.01) increased plasma ascorbic acid while decreased blood glucose and serum cholesterol levels when compared to the birds of control group.
Feather Pecking Behaviour and associated Welfare issues in Laying Hens
Authors: Dixon Laura Marie
Published: July 2009

Feather pecking, the pecking at or removal of feathers from one bird by another, is a problem in the poultry industry. Elimination of damaging feather pecking from flocks is made especially difficult by the numerous factors that appear to influence its prevalence. This review outlines the various contributors to feather pecking organised around Tinbergen's four questions on causation, ontogeny, phylogeny and function. There is growing evidence that feather pecking (especially severe feather pecking) is related to foraging motivation and gut function. However, other factors, such as improper early experiences, strain and individual differences and perseveration of the behaviour help explain its continued occurrence, even if the birds are kept in enriched environments. To date, methods of dealing with feather pecking are inadequate and involve welfare concerns of their own and alternate solutions, such as provision of forages, are not usually successful in abolishing feather pecking behaviour. The problems of excessive pelage/plummage removal or redirected oral/foraging related behaviour are not unique to poultry and seem to occur in other species in which foraging and forage intake is important. Between species comparisons of related behaviour patterns may improve our understanding of feather pecking and help to design effective solutions. In order to solve the problem of feather pecking, the factors discussed in this review need to be accounted for or we risk applying ‘band-aid’ solutions, which may appear outwardly to be solving the problem. However, the underlying cause(s) may still be present and the animal's welfare may still be compromised.
Ornithological Knowledge for Preliminary Risk Assessment of Avian Influenza (H5N1): The Implementation of the European Model in Croatia
Authors: Mužinić Jasmina , Pavlak Marina , Savić Vladimir , Cvitković Denis , Tadić Marko
Published: July 2009

The lack of epidemiological knowledge when planning the approach to preventing possible future outbreaks of avian influenza may lead to uncontrolled spreading of HPAI H5N1 virus and, consequently, danger to the poultry industry and human health and threats to the survival of endangered wild birds. The implementation of a model developed for the rapid assessment of ornithological data relevant to the spreading of avian influenza in the EU countries resulted in the identification of 23 Higher Risk Species and 17 Bridge Species for the territory of Croatia. It also identified a number of wetland areas, where Higher Risk Species come together during migration and wintering, as potential AI introduction and outbreak sites. The EU model was adapted to suit the Croatian circumstances. The migratory flyways of Higher Risk Species were analysed using data on birds ringed outside Croatia and found on the territory of Croatia between 1910 and 1992. These results form the ornithological part for the risk assessment of possible future outbreaks both at the national level and internationally, in neighbouring countries. It may also be used for AI research under the global European model. Data on poultry density, type of poultry husbandry, poultry trade and movement are needed. We propose the establishment of a database on the commercial movements of poultry and poultry products under the Early Warning System.
Modelling of Protein Metabolism Yields Amino Acid Requirements Dependent on Dietary Amino Acid efficiency, Growth Response, Genotype and Age of Growing Chicken
Authors: Liebert F.
Published: July 2009

Four separate nitrogen balance experiments with fast and slow growing genotypes of growing chicken were conducted to yield basic data for modelling of lysine and threonine requirements dependent on genotype, age, protein deposition and dietary amino acid efficiency. A total of 1008 individual nitrogen balance data in up to four age periods (I: 10–25 days; II: 30–45 days; III: 50–65 days; IV: 70–85 days) was utilised. According to principles of the diet dilution technique, experimental diets provided graded protein supply (60–360 g·kg-1 crude protein) with lysine or threonine as the first limiting amino acid. The modelling procedure utilised currently observed model parameters for the theoretical potential of nitrogen retention (NRmaxT) and nitrogen maintenance requirement (NMR), respectively. The selected results of the applied modelling procedure are discussed in comparison with current recommendations for growing chickens and aspects of different procedures utilised for assessing quantitative amino acid requirements, respectively. The amino acid requirement data yielded by modelling were in line with current recommendations, but are not directly comparable due to discrepancies in the applied procedures. However, the concluded requirements for lysine and threonine are useful to improve actual predictions for “ideal amino acid ratio” in growing chickens which are in focus of on-going studies.
Effects of Egg Antibody to Components of Inflammatory Activation (Phospholipase a2 and Toll Like Receptor 4) on the Response of Young Turkeys to Salmonella Typhimurium Challenge
Authors: Scanes Colin G. , Cutler Sara A. , Griffith Ronald W. , Yang Mingder , Cook Mark E.
Published: July 2009

The effect of passive immunization against two components of the inflammatory response (Toll-like receptor 4 and phospholipase A2) was examined in turkey poults receiving a challenge with Salmonella enterica serovar typhimurium (ST). The number of ST in the crop ingesta were not influenced by prior oral administration of egg antibody against Toll-like receptor 4 and phospholipase A2. There was a marked effect of the passive immunization on the crop contents 48 hours following ST challenge. The crops of the ST challenged non-immune sera controls were distended and fluid filled while those of poults receiving egg antibody contained ingesta. The dry weights of the ingesta in the crop of the ST challenges non-immune egg immunoglobulin receiving birds were 510% those receiving egg antibody to Toll-like receptor 4 or phospholipase A2. It is concluded that fluid accumulation in the crop of the young turkey following ST challenge may be a good model for bacterial enteric diseases where there is profuse watery diarrhoea. Moreover, passive immunization with antibody to Toll-like receptor 4 and phospholipase A2 reduces the symptoms associated with salmonellosis and possibility other enteric diseases.
Gonadotropin-inhibitory Hormone (GnIH): Biosynthesis, Mode of Action and Functional Significance in Birds
Authors: Tsutsui Kazuyoshi , Bentley George E.
Published: July 2009

Probing undiscovered hypothalamic neuropeptides that play important roles in the regulation of pituitary function in birds is essential for the progress of avian neuroendocrinology. The decapeptide gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is the primary factor responsible for the hypothalamic control of gonadotropin secretion. Gonadal sex steroids and inhibin inhibit gonadotropin secretion via feedback from the gonads, but a neuropeptide inhibitor of gonadotropin secretion was, until recently, unknown in birds as well as other vertebrates. In 2000, Tsutsui and co-workers discovered a novel hypothalamic dodecapeptide that inhibits gonadotropin release in quail and termed it gonadotropin- inhibitory hormone (GnIH). This was the first demonstration of a hypothalamic neuropeptide inhibiting gonadotropin release in any vertebrate. From the past 8 years of research, we now know that GnIH exists in several avian species and acts as a new key neurohormone for the regulation of avian reproduction. GnIH acts on the pituitary and GnRH neurons in the hypothalamus via a novel G protein-coupled receptor for GnIH to inhibit gonadal development and maintenance by decreasing gonadotropin release and synthesis. GnIH neurons express melatonin receptor and melatonin stimulates the expression of GnIH. Thus, GnIH is capable of transducing photoperiodic information via changes in the melatonin signal, thereby influencing the reproductive axis. This review summarises the advances made in our understanding of the biosynthesis, mode of action and functional significance of GnIH in birds.
Bird Communities in Wetlands along the Lower Paraná River, Entre Ríos, Argentina
Authors: Ronchi-Virgolini Ana Laura , Beltzer Adolfo Héctor , Manzano Adriana Silvina
Published: July 2009

The Paraná River develops a wide and complex floodplain with a vast heterogeneity of habitats, which allows the existence of diverse biotic communities adapted to aquatic conditions. The specific composition of bird populations in different ecosystems depends on the factors that operate in a spatio-temporal level. The aim of this work was to describe the bird communities in part of the Lower Parana Valley. We detected in the area of study, 7,462 birds belonging to 129 species of 39 Families and 14 Orders. In relation to the phenology of the detected species, 97 species are resident. This rich diversity is associated with the local environmental characteristics facilitating the presence of a large number of species. Each environmental unit presents a particular group of birds, which could indicate that species respond to spatial heterogeneity according to the requirements of the habitat.
Self-Perception of Hearing Ability as a Strong Predictor of Hearing Aid Purchase
Authors: Palmer Catherine V. , Solodar Helena S. , Hurley Whitney R. , Byrne David C. , Williams Kadyn O.
Published: July 2009

Background: Hearing threshold data are not particularly predictive of self-perceived hearing handicap or readiness to pursue amplification. Poor correlations between these measures have been reported repeatedly. When a patient is evaluated for hearing loss, it is common to collect
both threshold data and the individual's self-perception of hearing ability. This is done to help the patient make an appropriate choice related to the pursuit of amplification or other communication strategies. It would be valuable, though, for the audiologist to be able to predict which
patients are ready for amplification, which patients require more extensive counseling before pursuing amplification, and which patients simply are not ready for amplification regardless of the audiometric data. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the following question
for its potential usefulness as a determinant of patient readiness for amplification: “On a scale from 1 to 10, 1 being the worst and 10 being the best, how would you rate your overall hearing ability?” Research Design: The test‐retest reliability and the predictive
value of the question, based on final hearing aid purchase, were evaluated in a private practice setting. Study Sample: Eight hundred forty hearing-impaired adults in the age range from 18 to 95 years. Collection and Analysis: Data were collected retrospectively from patient
files. Results and Conclusion: Results were repeatable and supported the use of this question in similar clinical settings.
Cochlear Implant Patients with Superficial Siderosis
Authors: Sydlowski Sarah A. , Cevette Michael J. , Shallop Jon , Barrs David M.
Published: July 2009

Background: Considered a rare disorder, superficial siderosis of the central nervous system (SSCN) has become more frequently diagnosed in recent years. As it is characterized by progressive sensorineural hearing loss, patients' needs may surpass the capability of hearing aid
technology. Despite the retrocochlear nature of the disorder, patients have undergone cochlear implantation (CI) with varying success. Purpose: To summarize the issues surrounding cochlear implant candidates with SSCN as well as highlight trends in performance postimplantation. Research
Design: Retrospective case reports of seven cochlear implant candidates detail the symptoms, typical audiologic presentation, and array of clinical issues for patients with this progressive and potentially fatal disease. Results: Despite the retrocochlear component of a hearing
loss caused by SSCN, cochlear implantation may be a viable option. Conclusions: It is essential that the CI audiologist not only be aware of the disorder but also be well versed in the resulting implications for the cochlear implant process. A more thorough case history, an expanded
candidacy test battery, and knowledge of the typical presentation of SSCN are critical. The diagnosis of SSCN will impact expectations for success with the cochlear implant, and counseling should be adjusted accordingly.
Evaluation of the International Outcome Inventory for Hearing Aids in a Veteran Sample
Authors: Smith Sherri L. , Noe Colleen M. , Alexander Genevieve C.
Published: July 2009

Background: The International Outcome Inventory for Hearing Aids (IOI-HA) was developed as a global hearing aid outcome measure targeting seven outcome domains. The published norms were based on a private-pay sample who were fitted with analog hearing aids. Purpose: The
purpose of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the IOI-HA and to establish normative data in a veteran sample. Research Design: Survey. Study Sample: The participants were 131 male veterans (mean age of 74.3 years, SD  =  7.4) who were issued hearing
aids with digital signal processing (DSP). Intervention: Hearing aids with DSP that were fitted bilaterally between 2005 and 2007. Data Collection and Analysis: Veterans were mailed two copies of the IOI-HA. The participants were instructed to complete the first copy of the questionnaire
immediately and the second copy in two weeks. The completed questionnaires were mailed to the laboratory. The psychometric properties of the questionnaire were evaluated. As suggested by Cox and colleagues, the participants were divided into two categories based on their unaided subjective
hearing difficulty. The two categories were (1) those with less hearing difficulty (none-to-moderate category) and (2) those who report more hearing difficulty (moderately severe+ category). The norms from the current veteran sample then were compared to the original, published sample. For
each hearing difficulty category, the critical difference values were calculated for each item and for the total score. Results: A factor analysis showed that the IOI-HA in the veteran sample had the identical subscale structure as reported in the original sample. For the total scale,
the internal consistency was good (Chronbach's α  =  0.83), and the test‐retest reliability was high (λ  =  0.94). Group and individual norms were developed for both hearing difficulty categories in the veteran sample. For each IOI-HA item, the critical
difference scores were <1.0. This finding suggests that for any item on the IOI-HA, there is a 95 percent chance that an observed change of one response unit between two test sessions reflects a true change in outcome for a given domain. Conclusions: The results of this study confirmed
that the psychometric properties of the IOI-HA questionnaire are strong and are essentially the same for the veteran sample and the original private-pay sample. The veteran norms, however, produced higher outcomes than those established originally, possibly because of differences in the population
samples and/or hearing aid technology. Clinical and research applications of the current findings are presented. Based on the results from the current study, the norms established here should replace the original norms for use in veterans with current hearing aid technology.
A Comparison of Presentation Levels to Maximize Word Recognition Scores
Authors: Guthrie Lesli A. , Mackersie Carol L.
Published: July 2009

Background: While testing suprathreshold word recognition at multiple levels is considered best practice, studies on practice patterns do not suggest that this is common practice. Audiologists often test at a presentation level intended to maximize recognition scores, but methods
for selecting this level are not well established for a wide range of hearing losses. Purpose: To determine the presentation level methods that resulted in maximum suprathreshold phoneme-recognition scores while avoiding loudness discomfort. Research Design: Performance-intensity
functions were obtained for 40 participants with sensorineural hearing loss using the Computer-Assisted Speech Perception Assessment. Participants had either gradually sloping (mild, moderate, moderately severe/severe) or steeply sloping losses. Performance-intensity functions were obtained
at presentation levels ranging from 10 dB above the SRT to 5 dB below the UCL (uncomfortable level). In addition, categorical loudness ratings were obtained across a range of intensities using speech stimuli. Scores obtained at UCL ‐ 5 dB (maximum level below loudness
discomfort) were compared to four alternative presentation-level methods. The alternative presentation-level methods included sensation level (SL; 2 kHz reference, SRT reference), a fixed-level (95 dB SPL) method, and the most comfortable loudness level (MCL).For the SL methods,
scores used in the analysis were selected separately for the SRT and 2 kHz references based on several criteria. The general goal was to choose levels that represented asymptotic performance while avoiding loudness discomfort. The selection of SLs varied across the range of hearing
losses. Results: Scores obtained using the different presentation-level methods were compared to scores obtained using UCL ‐ 5 dB. For the mild hearing loss group, the mean phoneme scores were similar for all presentation levels. For the moderately severe/severe group,
the highest mean score was obtained using UCL − 5 dB. For the moderate and steeply sloping groups, the mean scores obtained using 2 kHz SL were equivalent to UCL − 5 dB, whereas scores obtained using the SRT SL were significantly lower than those obtained using
UCL − 5 dB. The mean scores corresponding to MCL and 95 dB SPL were significantly lower than scores for UCL − 5 dB for the moderate and the moderately severe/severe group. Conclusions: For participants with mild to moderate gradually sloping losses and
for those with steeply sloping losses, the UCL ‐ 5 dB and the 2 kHz SL methods resulted in the highest scores without exceeding listeners' UCLs. For participants with moderately severe/severe losses, the UCL − 5 dB method resulted in the highest phoneme recognition
scores.