bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preliminary criteria for ecological status assessment index for dam reservoirs on the basis of the ichthyofauna assemblages
Authors: Wiśniewolski Wiesław , Prus Paweł
Published: March 2010

Preliminary criteria for ecological status assessment index for dam reservoirs on the basis of the ichthyofauna assemblages

Basing on geographical, physical and hydrological criteria, 24 types of dam reservoirs can be distinguished in Poland. The system of ecological potential assessment is based on the index of biotic integrity (IBI), taking into account its modifications for Polish rivers. An example of a table with assessment criteria values is given for large, lowland, lotic reservoirs. In order to use the proposed assessment system it is necessary to elaborate such tables for all 24 types of reservoirs and than to test it on a sample of reservoirs of each type. It is worth of notice, that to obtain appropriate data on ichthyofauna of dam reservoirs for assessment of their ecological potential, it is necessary to use combined methods of data collection (electrofishing, commercial and experimental net catches) in a planned monitoring system.
Land availability analysis and social attitude aspects in relation to implementation and development of short' rotation forestry systems in Poland
Authors: Wróbel Anna , Mosiej Józef , Weih Martin
Published: March 2010

Land availability analysis and social attitude aspects in relation to implementation and development of short' rotation forestry systems in Poland

After observations of European development of renewable sources, and according to protocols and directives, set by both European and Polish policy makers, there is a need to find methods to support the future development of Short Rotation Forestry (SRF) using fast-growing trees on agricultural land, and to overcome potential problems. In this paper society attitudes towards future developing options for SRF energy plantations in Poland were investigated. In the investigation, two kinds of questionnaires were presented to various representatives of branches that have a potential interest in the subject. Individual representatives for the groups of industrial and municipal representatives, farmers, researchers and academic teachers, etc. were pooled. The results showed that main difficulties may arise from farmer attitudes towards nontraditional crops. This group of people showed great suspiciousness towards new crops, an attitude, which might be explained in part by the fact that the average level of knowledge concerning SRF energy plantations was low. Another factor that may strongly influence the introduction of SRF plantation is the land availability and suitability. Concerning the relatively large arable lands in Poland in comparison to other European countries the land availability potential has been investigated. On the base of two factors projecting the mentioned aspects of land, the analysis has been performed to figure out regions in Poland with the highest short rotation forestry potential.
The effectiveness of adapted, best practice guidelines for smoking cessation counseling with disadvantaged, pregnant smokers attending public sector antenatal clinics in Cape Town, South Africa
Authors: EVERETT‐MURPHY KATHERINE , STEYN KRISELA , MATHEWS CATHERINE , PETERSEN ZAINO , ODENDAAL HEIN , GWEBUSHE NOMONDE , LOMBARD CARL
Published: March 2010

Aim and objectives. To evaluate the effect of a smoking cessation intervention, based on best practice guidelines on the quit rates of disadvantaged, pregnant women in Cape Town, South Africa. Design. Quasi‐experimental using a natural history cohort as a control group, consisting of women attending antenatal care in 2006 and an intervention cohort, attending the same clinics a year later. Setting. Four, public sector antenatal clinics in Cape Town staffed and managed by midwives. Population. Pregnant women of low socio‐economic status. Methods. The natural history cohort received usual care, whilst the intervention cohort was offered self‐help quit materials in the context of brief counseling by midwives and peer counselors. Smoking behavior was measured in early, mid and late pregnancy. The equivalence of the groups in terms of smoking profile, self‐reported smoking and demographic variables was assessed at baseline. Main outcome measures. Quit rates measured by urinary cotinine towards the end of pregnancy (36–39 weeks gestation). Results. The two cohorts were comparable at baseline. The difference in quit rates between the two cohorts in late pregnancy was 5.3% (95% CI: 3.2–7.4%, p < 0.0001) in an intention to treat analysis. There was also a significant difference in reduction of smoking of 11.8% (95% CI: 5.0–18.4%, p = 0.0006). Conclusion. A smoking cessation intervention based on best practice guidelines was effective among high risk, pregnant smokers in South Africa.
The Kessler PSychological Distress Scale in Te Rau Hinengaro: The New Zealand Mental Health Survey
Authors: Oakley Browne Mark A. , Wells J. Elisabeth , Scott Kate M. , McGee Magnus A. ,   for the New Zealand Mental Health Survey Research Team
Published: March 2010

Objective: The aim of the present study was to compare two versions of the Kessler 10-item scale (K10), as measures of population mental health status in New Zealand.

Method: A nationwide household survey of residents aged ≥16 years was carried out between 2003 and 2004. The World Mental Health Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI 3.0) was used to obtain DSM-IV diagnoses. Serious mental illness (SMI) was defined as for the World Mental Health Surveys Initiative and the USA National Comorbidity Survey Replication. Participants were randomly assigned to receive the ‘past month’ K10 or the ‘worst month in the past 12 months’ K10. There were 12 992 completed interviews; 7435 included the K10. The overall response rate was 73.3%. Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves were used to examine the ability of both K10 versions to discriminate between CIDI 3.0 cases and non-cases, and to predict SMI.

Results: Scores on both versions of the K10 were higher for female subjects, younger people, people with fewer educational qualifications, people with lower household income and people resident in more socioeconomically deprived areas. Both versions of the K10 were effective in discriminating between CIDI 3.0 cases and non-cases for anxiety disorder, mood disorders and any study disorder. The worst month in the past 12 months K10 is a more effective predictor than the past 1 month K10 of SMI (area under the curve: 0.89 vs 0.80).

Conclusions: Either version of the K10 could be used in repeated health surveys to monitor the mental health status of the New Zealand population and to derive proxy prevalence estimates for SMI. The worst month in the past 12 months K10 may be the preferred version in such surveys, because it is a better predictor of SMI than the past month K10 and also has a more logical relationship to 12 month disorder and 12 month service use.
Comparison of the Prevalence of Mental Health Problems in Deaf and Hearing Children and Adolescents in Australia
Authors: Remine Maria D. , Brown P. Margaret
Published: March 2010

Objective: The aims of the present study were to (i) identify the prevalence rate and nature of mental health problems in a group of Australian deaf children and adolescents and compare these to those reported for the Australian hearing population; and (ii) identify specific demographic characteristics that may typify deaf children and adolescents with mental health problems.

Method: Sixty-six parents of deaf children and adolescents aged 6–18 years, their teachers and 38 adolescents participated in the study. Data related to mental health problems were collected using the Child Behaviour Checklist and Youth Self-Report. Data related to demographic characteristics were obtained via parent and teacher surveys.

Results: The overall prevalence rate of mental health problems reported by parents and adolescents in the present study is comparable to that of the Australian hearing population. Parents in the present study, however, reported significantly more concerns on the social problem and thought problem scales than did Australian parents of hearing children and adolescents. There were also significant differences between the prevalence and nature of mental health problems as reported by the deaf adolescents in the present study when compared to deaf adolescents in another Australian study. These differences appear to be explained by differences in the preferred communication mode of the participants in the two studies.

Conclusions: The known heterogeneity within the Australian deaf child and adolescent population with respect to preferred mode of communication has important implications not only for the appropriate selection and use of psychiatric instruments in assessing child and adolescent mental health but also for the accurate reporting of the prevalence and nature of mental health problems within this population.
Executive Functions and Memory Abilities in Children With 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome
Authors: Campbell Linda E. , Azuma Rayna , Ambery Fiona , Stevens Angela , Smith Anna , Morris Robin G. , Murphy Declan G.M. , Murphy Kieran C.
Published: March 2010

Objective: Velo-cardio-facial syndrome or 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11DS) is the most common known microdeletion syndrome. One of the genes in the deleted region is the catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) gene, which is thought to have significant effects on cognition through its influence on dopamine metabolism. The aim of the present study was to better characterize the cognitive phenotype in a large cohort children with 22q11DS compared with sibling controls and to investigate if the cognitive deficits in 22q11DS were modulated by COMT expression.

Method: The memory, executive function and attentional abilities of children with 22q11DS (n = 50) compared to sibling controls (n = 31), were measured. Also, within children with 22q11DS, a preliminary exploration was carried out of the relationship between cognitive ability and COMT genotype.

Results: Overall, the 22q11DS group had significantly reduced scores on tests of memory (especially in visual memory) and executive function (particularly in planning, working memory, and motor organization) compared with sibling controls. No association, however, was identified between COMT genotype and cognitive function.

Conclusions: Although 22q11DS children have specific cognitive deficits, differences in COMT do not account for these findings.
Patterns of Antipsychotic Medication Use in Australia 2002–2007
Authors: Hollingworth Samantha A. , Siskind Dan J. , Nissen Lisa M. , Robinson Maxine , Hall Wayne D.
Published: March 2010

Objective: Atypical antipsychotic medications that are primarily used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder cost the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) AUD$334.4m in 2007. There are indications that they have also been used outside the approved indications to treat behavioural disturbances in the elderly. The aim of the present study was therefore to examine (i) trends in prescribing of subsidized atypical antipsychotic drugs in the Australian population from 2002 to 2007; and (ii) gender and age differences in the utilization of these drugs.

Methods: Government (Medicare Australia) data on numbers of prescriptions, quantity and doses for atypical and typical antipsychotics from 2002 to 2007 were analysed. Defined daily dose per 1000 population per day were estimated for age and sex groups using Australian Bureau of Statistics population data.

Results: The proportion of prescribed antipsychotics that were atypical increased from 61% in 2002 to 77% in 2007. In male subjects, olanzapine was most often prescribed between the ages of 25 and 55 years. In female subjects, in contrast, the highest rates of prescribing were in those ≥75 years. Lower doses of these drugs were prescribed in older adults.

Conclusions: Atypical antipsychotic drugs were most commonly used to treat schizophrenia in younger men and behavioural disturbances in older women with dementia. They appear to have been used outside of the approved indication for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder with significant financial costs to the PBS. Research into the reasons for their extensive use in elderly women is needed to inform more rational prescribing of these medicines.
Synapse Regression in Depression: The Role of 5-HT Receptors in Modulating NMDA Receptor Function and Synaptic Plasticity
Authors: Bennett AO , Maxwell R
Published: March 2010

Depression is accompanied by an increase in activity in the amygdala and a decrease in the rostral anterior cingulate cortex (rACC), with the former attributed to a failure of the latter to exert its normal inhibitory influence. This failure is likely due to regression of synaptic connections between the rACC and the amygdala, a process reversed in part by selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). The present work presents a hypothesis as to how SSRIs might bring about this process and hence normalization of activity, at least in patients that are responsive to SSRIs. Serotonin receptors of the excitatory 5-HT2AR class increase N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) efficacy, while those of the inhibitory 5-HT1AR class decrease NMDAR efficacy. A decrease of 5-HT transporter (5-HTT) efficacy, either during human development through functional polymorphisms, or in animals through 5-HTT transgenic knockouts, is accompanied by a decrease in 5-HT1AR and hence an increase in excitability and NMDAR efficacy which drives an increase in synaptic spines in the amygdala. As the limbic region of the brain normally possesses high levels of 5-HT1AR the effect of loss of these is to increase excitation in this region, as is observed. Changes in the level of extracellular 5-HT in adult animals also modulates the density of synaptic spines, with these increasing with an increase in 5-HT, possibly as a consequence of increases in 5-HT2AR activity over that of 5-HT1AR. Increasing extracellular levels of 5-HT with SSRIs would then lead to an increase in excitability and in synaptic spines for afferents in the dorsal rostral anterior cingulate cortex but not in the ventral regions such as the amygdala that have few 5-HT2AR. This allows dorsal regions to once more exert their inhibitory influence over ventral regions. In this way, SSRIs may exert their effect in normalizing dorsal hypometabolism and ventral hypermetabolism in those suffering from depression.
College Activities and the Ethics of Advertising
Authors: Ryan Christopher , Walter Garry , Robertson Michael
Published: March 2010

Objectives: The aim of this paper is to examine whether advertising in the College journals and at RANZCP Congress, in particular from pharmaceutical companies, gives rise to a conflict of interests, and to discuss how this should be managed.

Conclusions: While advertising will often represent a conflict of interests, banning advertising from the College journals or Congress is unlikely to the best way to manage this. Conflicts of interest may be better managed by development of clear policies on advertisements, broadening the advertising base (i.e. beyond pharmaceutical companies), checking the accuracy of advertisements, and, in the case of Congress, ceasing sponsored symposia.
Reforming Investigative Interviewing in Canada
Authors: Snook Brent , Eastwood Joseph , Stinson Michael , Tedeschini John , House John C.
Published: March 2010

Investigative interviewing practices in Canada require substantive reform. Adult witness and victim interview training for Canadian police officers is often cursory, and suspect interview training is limited to the much-maligned Reid technique. This state of affairs is troublesome because interviewers may not be maximizing the quality and quantity of information that can be retrieved from interviewees. An inquisitorial interviewing method, known as PEACE, that is ethical and grounded in scientific research is outlined. Investigative interviewing reform can best be achieved through the implementation of a standardized national model that is based on PEACE and through increased practitioner–academic partnerships.
Visual Outcomes in Five Different Approaches for Treatment of Central Retinal Vein Occlusion
Authors: Soheilian Masoud , Ramezani Alireza , Tavallali Ali , Mohebbi Mohammad R. , Peyman Gholam A.
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Four treatment methods for central retinal vein occlusion were compared with its natural course.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

In this partially prospective, comparative, interventional case series on 63 eyes with central retinal vein occlusion, five approaches were compared: intravitreal triamcinolone injection; radial optic neurotomy; combined radial optic neurotomy and intraocular triamcinolone injection; combined internal limiting membrane peeling, radial optic neurotomy, and intraocular triamcinolone; and observation.

RESULTS:

Final visual acuity in the intravitreal triamcinolone group was better compared with the observation (
P
= .025), radial optic neurotomy (
P
= .037), combined radial optic neurotomy/intraocular triamcinolone injection (
P
= .401), and combined internal limiting membrane peeling, radial optic neurotomy, and intraocular triamcinolone injection (
P
= .023) groups. However, after adjustment for baseline visual acuity, the only treatment method with significant visual acuity improvement in relation to the observation group was the combined radial optic neurotomy/intraocular triamcinolone injection (
P
= .025, .023, and .054 at 1, 3, and 6 months, respectively).

CONCLUSION:

Among the five different approaches analyzed in this study, combined radial optic neurotomy and intraocular triamcinolone injection may provide a better visual outcome in the management of central retinal vein occlusion.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2010;41:157–165.]
Association Between Retinal Thickness and Retinal Pigment Epithelium Elevation in Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Blair Michael P. , Gupta Mayank , Blair Norman P. , Shahidi Mahnaz
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To determine the association between retinal pigment epithelium elevation and maximum retinal thickness in patients with age-related macular degeneration.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Fifteen patients (mean age = 76 ± 8 years) with age-related macular degeneration and pigment epithelial detachment underwent optical coherence tomography. The images were analyzed by two observers to measure maximum retinal thickness and the width and maximum height of the pigment epithelial detachment. Linear regression analysis was performed to determine the association between maximum retinal thickness and retinal pigment epithelium elevation.

RESULTS:

The results indicated high correlations between observers in identifying pigment epithelial detachment edges and measuring retinal pigment epithelium elevation and maximum retinal thickness. Pigment epithelial detachment height ranged from 82 to 599 microns. Mean maximum retinal thickness was 424 ± 150 microns. Increased maximum retinal thickness was associated with more elevated retinal pigment epithelium (r = 0.7;
P
= .003).

CONCLUSION:

Retinal thickness was associated with pigment epithelial detachment height, warranting future investigations into pathophysiologic mechanisms leading to and potential treatment for pigment epithelial detachment and associated retinal thickening.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2010;41:175–181.]
Optical Coherence Tomography Imaging of the Fovea in Retinopathy of Prematurity
Authors: Baker Paul S. , Tasman William
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To report foveal optical coherence tomography (OCT) findings in patients with a history of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

In a case–control study, OCT imaging of the fovea was performed on mostly adult patients with a history of ROP and no significant macular pathology. The same OCT imaging was performed on control subjects who were born full-term.

RESULTS:

Fourteen eyes of 12 patients with ROP were studied. Mean age was 39 years and mean gestational age at birth was 28 weeks. Of the 11 eyes with no cataract or pseudophakia, median best-corrected visual acuity was 20/40. Three eyes with cataracts had visual acuities of 20/50, 20/60, and 20/100. OCT imaging showed that eyes in the ROP group had a relative loss of the foveal depression, increased macular thickness, and continuation of inner retinal layers within the fovea.

CONCLUSION:

OCT imaging demonstrated abnormal foveal architecture in patients with a history of ROP, but most of these patients maintained good visual acuity.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2010;41:201–206.]
Combination of Internal Limiting Membrane Peeling and Endophotocoagulation for Retinal Detachment Related to High Myopia in Patients With Macular Hole
Authors: Yu Jing , Wang Fang , Cao Hui , Fan Ying , Zhang Xi
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the anatomic and visual outcomes of undergoing combined internal limiting membrane peeling and endophotocoagulation in retinal detachment related to high myopia in patients with macular hole.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Fifty-two eyes of 52 consecutive patients with macular hole and retinal detachment related to high myopia were recruited into the study. The combination treatment group underwent vitrectomy and perfluoropropane gas injection with the assistance of indocyanine green internal limiting membrane peeling and additional endophotocoagulation 2 weeks postoperatively. The control group only underwent vitrectomy and perfluoropropane gas injection and was matched to the combination treatment group according to the refractive errors and the size of macular hole.

RESULTS:

The primary macular hole closure rate was significantly higher in the combination treatment group (96.2%) than in the control group (57.7%) (
P
< .05). Six months postoperatively, a best-corrected visual acuity improvement of 2 or more lines was found in more eyes in the combination treatment group (100%) than in the control group (53.8%) (
P
> .05).

CONCLUSION:

Combined internal limiting membrane peeling and endophotocoagulation for retinal detachment related to high myopia in patients with macular hole has a promising anatomic closure rate and visual acuity and may be a better choice for retinal detachment in this group.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2010;41:215–221.]
Resident-Performed Ahmed
TM
Glaucoma Valve Surgery
Authors: Desai Rajen U. , Pekmezci Melike , Tam Diamond , Song Julia , Lin Shan C.
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of residents performing glaucoma valve surgery at a metropolitan county hospital.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

A retrospective analysis was performed of consecutive resident-performed Ahmed valve (New World Medical, Inc., Rancho Cucamonga, CA) glaucoma surgeries from 1993 to 2005. Data of 50 eyes of 48 patients were evaluated for intraocular pressure (IOP) and best-corrected visual acuity.

RESULTS:

The mean follow-up period was 34.7 ± 30.5 months, with an IOP decrease from 30.8 ± 11.3 mm Hg preoperatively to 15.3 ± 11.6 mm Hg at last visit. Success, defined by a postoperative IOP of greater than 5 mm Hg and at most 21 mm Hg or less or a decreased postoperative IOP of at least 25% if the pre-operative IOP was already 21 mm Hg or less, occurred in 78% of eyes. Best-corrected visual acuity decreased in 58% of eyes. Four eyes (8%) required subsequent penetrating glaucoma procedures.

CONCLUSION:

This retrospective study suggests that placement of an Ahmed valve can be a safe and effective procedure in the hands of residents under appropriate attending physician supervision.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2010;41:222–227.]
Femtosecond LASIK Combined With Astigmatic Keratotomy for the Correction of Refractive Errors After Penetrating Keratoplasty
Authors: Bahar Irit , Kaiserman Igor , Mashor Raneen Shehadeh , McAllum Penny , Slomovic Allan , Rootman David
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the outcomes of femtosecond laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) compared to combined LASIK and astigmatic keratotomy in the treatment of refractive errors following penetrating keratoplasty.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

A retrospective review was performed on 18 eyes of 16 patients who underwent LASIK for visual rehabilitation after penetrating keratoplasty. Seven eyes (38.8%) had undergone paired relaxing incisions with topographic guidance prior to LASIK performance.

RESULTS:

Preoperative uncorrected visual acuity was 20/100 or worse in 13 eyes (72.2%) and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 20/40 or better in 15 eyes (83.3%). After LASIK, uncorrected visual acuity was 20/40 or better in 10 eyes (55.5%) and BCVA was 20/40 or better in 17 eyes (94.4%). Three eyes (16.6%) had a loss of 1 to 2 lines of BCVA. No difference in visual outcomes was noted in eyes undergoing LASIK and astigmatic keratotomy versus LASIK alone. An increased complication rate was noted in patients who also underwent astigmatic keratotomy and was associated with flap creation.

CONCLUSION:

Femtosecond LASIK is effective in reducing ametropia after penetrating keratoplasty. Astigmatic keratotomy might complicate flap creation in LASIK; therefore, photorefractive keratectomy should be considered for patients who had previous astigmatic keratotomy to reduce astigmatism.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2010;41:242–249.]
In Situ Intraocular Suture Techniques for Pupilloplasty and Suspension of a Subluxated Intraocular Lens
Authors: Lee Eun Ji , Ahn Jee Yun , Wee Won Ryang , Lee Jin Hak , Kim Mee Kum
Published: March 2010

The modified McCannel and Siepser techniques allow surgeons to create a locking knot at the extraocular space to maintain a closed chamber. The authors demonstrate that this method made the pupilloplasty easy and applied it to suspend a subluxated intraocular lens with scleral fixation of haptics.
[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2010;41:266–271.]
Transscleral Fixation by Injector Implantation of a Foldable Intraocular Lens
Authors: Choi Kyung Seek , Park Sung Yong , Sun Hae Jung
Published: March 2010

Scleral fixation of a foldable intraocular lens (IOL) was performed in 17 eyes of 17 patients using a new small incision technique with injector implantation. All eyes were implanted with a hydrophobic acrylic three-piece IOL, either with phacoemulsification surgery or secondarily. No cases of intraoperative or postoperative complications were observed. The operation time required for scleral fixation only was less than 30 minutes in all cases. Scleral fixation of foldable IOLs using a self-sealing tunnel incision and injector technique minimizes intraoperative hypotony and related complications such as suprachoroidal hemorrhage. Furthermore, this technique saves surgery time and the sutureless technique used for most patients can reduce postoperative astigmatism.
[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2010;41:272–275.]
High-Definition Slit-Lamp Video Camera System
Authors: Yamamoto Satoru , Manabe Noriyoshi , Yamamoto Kenji
Published: March 2010

Using a high-definition video camera for slit-lamp examination is now possible with the assistance of an adaptor. The authors describe the easy manipulation, convenience of use, and performance of a high-definition slit-lamp video camera system and provide images of eyes that were obtained using the system.
[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2010;41:276–278.]
Development and Psychometric Validation of the Dementia Attitudes Scale
Authors: O'Connor Melissa L. , McFadden Susan H.
Published: March 2010

This study employed qualitative construct mapping and factor analysis to construct a scale to measure attitudes toward dementia. Five family caregivers, five professionals, and five college students participated in structured interviews. Qualitative analysis of the interviews led to a 46-item scale, which was reduced to 20 items following principal axis factoring with two different samples: college students () and certified nursing assistant students (). Confirmatory factor analysis was then conducted with another sample of college students (). The final scale, titled the Dementia Attitudes Scale (DAS), essentially had a two-factor structure; the factors were labeled “dementia knowledge” and “social comfort.” Total-scale Cronbach's alphas ranged 0.83–0.85. Evidence for convergent validity was promising, as the DAS correlated significantly with scales that measured ageism and attitudes toward disabilities (range of correlations = 0.44–0.55; mean correlation ). These findings demonstrate the reliability and validity of the DAS, supporting its use as a research tool.
ALTERNATE SPECIES FOR NORTHERN ANIMAL PRODUCTION
Authors: KLEIN DAVID R.
Published: March 2010

Domestic animals, with the exception of the reindeer, are poorly adapted to foraging conditions in the Far North. Plant productivity is low at high latitudes, but native ungulates free to range over the irregularities of the terrain are able to obtain forage of high quality during the short summer growing season. Adaptations of native ungulates to survive the long winters when forage quality and availability are limited include growth plateaus during winter, accumulation of large fat reserves, reduced activity during winter, increased capability to digest plants not normally consumed by herbivores, and capability to forage through the snow cover. Attempts to domesticate the moose and muskox have to date been unsuccessful largely because these species appear poorly adapted to free-ranging conditions as are reindeer, and they therefore require closer handling, fencing, and provision of supplemental feed, with associated high costs of operation. No long-term practice of selective breeding of these species has accompanied the domestication efforts. Reindeer husbandry enjoys a renewed vigor in North America as a result of the recently developed raw antler market and changing motivations of native herders. The continued harvest of native wild ungulates for the sustenance needs of local people appears to be the most realistic use of most northern rangelands in the immediate future.
FEEDLOT AND CARCASS TRAITS OF PROGENY OF DAMS OF THE HIGHLAND AND HEREFORD BREEDS AND THEIR RECIPROCAL CROSSES
Authors: LAWSON J. E.
Published: March 2010

The performance of 122 progeny of Highland, Hereford, Hereford × Highland, and Highland × Hereford dams, bred to Hereford and Angus sires, was compared for feedlot and carcass traits in 1963 and 1964 at the Experimental Farm, Manyberries, Alberta. Progeny of Highland cows had lighter initial feedlot weights. The difference carried through to slaughter and carcass weights even though feedlot gain did not differ among the progeny of the four dam groups. Calves were slaughtered when Herefords were judged, visually, to have attained the highest market grades. At the same age, calves out of Highland cows had less muscle development and overall fat cover and, therefore, produced a lower proportion of desirable carcasses than those of the other three groups. Hereford × Highland dams produced heavier calves at weaning than the Highland × Hereford dams, and when calf survival in the feedlot was considered, that advantage was accentuated up to the time of slaughter. Progeny of Angus sires exceeded those of Hereford sires for live- and carcass weights, diameter of muscle fibers, and shear force required to cut a 2.54-cm diam core sample of meat. Steers exceeded heifers for all live- and carcass weights and for carcass length. Heifers had a greater fat thickness over the longissimus dorsi and a greater diameter of muscle fibers than steers.
RESPONSE OF LACTATING EWES TO SNOW AS A SOURCE OF WATER
Authors: DEGEN A. A. , YOUNG B. A.
Published: March 2010

Eight Suffolk-cross ewes, each nursing a ram-lamb, were kept in a snow-covered field and were individually offered 2 kg of dehydrated alfalfa pellets daily. Half the ewes were denied water from the 4th to 14th wk of lactation but had access to snow as a water source (snow ewes), while the others were offered water during the daily feeding period (water ewes). The ewes readily accepted snow as their source of water. The total water turnover of the snow ewes was approximately 35% less than that of the water ewes; however, this reduced water intake did not affect their milk yield, total body water, or hemactocrit. The liveweight and total body solids of the ewes and energy content of the milk were not significantly different in the two groups. The weight gain of the lambs from the two groups of ewes was not significantly different, averaging 118 and 105 g/day for lambs from the water and snow ewes, respectively.
ENDOCRINE AND METABOLIC CHANGES IN SHEEP ASSOCIATED WITH ACCLIMATION TO CONSTANT INTERMITTENT COLD EXPOSURE
Authors: GRAHAM A. D. , CHRISTOPHERSON R. J. , THOMPSON J. R.
Published: March 2010

Plasma noradrenaline (NA), adrenaline (A), and dopamine (DA) concentrations and cortisol metabolism were studied in three groups of three sheared year-old wethers exposed for 50 days to either 22–26 °C, 8–9 °C or to 19–24 °C from 0900 to 2100 h and −2–4 °C from 2200 to 0800 h. Plasma samples for catecholamine and cortisol determination were taken weekly, 3 h following the daily 0800 h and 1700 h feeding periods. Midway and near the end of the 50-day exposure period, cortisol entry rate and metabolic clearance rate (cMCR) were estimated using a 3H-cortisol continuous infusion technique. Respired gas analysis was used to estimate the heat production (HP) of all sheep 51 h after feeding at a thermoneutral temperature. An increase in thermoneutral HP following 27–30 days of cold exposure indicated that sheep of both cold treatment groups had developed some form of cold acclimation. Exposure of sheep to 8–9 °C resulted in a three- and twofold increase in plasma NA and A levels, respectively, which remained elevated throughout the experiment. Initially, nightly cold exposure of the intermittent-cold-exposed sheep increased daytime plasma NA levels but this effect declined with time. Intermittent cold exposure did not significantly affect plasma A level and neither of the two cold treatments significantly affected plasma DA level. Chronic exposure to 8–9 °C but not intermittent cold exposure caused an increase in cMCR and plasma cortisol level. Cortisol entry rate did not differ significantly between treatment groups. It is concluded that intermittent as well as constant chronic cold results in a metabolic acclimation of sheep.
AN EVALUATION OF THE RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN DIETARY PARAMETERS AND RUMEN LIQUID TURNOVER RATE
Authors: EVANS ESSI
Published: March 2010

Data were accumulated from published sources and were combined in order to estimate the effects of level of feed intake, dietary energy concentration, energy intake level and dietary forage percentage on rumen liquid turnover rates in sheep and cattle. The effects of the dietary parameters on liquid turnover rates were estimated by regression analysis, where all possible combinations of independent variables were considered. It was found that rumen liquid turnover rates increased (P < 0.05) as feed intake increased with both sheep (r = 0.610) and cattle (r = 0.715). From multiple regression analyses it was learned that the inclusion of independent variables that were related to the physical composition of the diet along with variables for intake improved the estimation of liquid turnover rates, although the independent variable related to ration composition differed between sheep and cattle. With data from sheep experiments, elevations in the digestible energy content of the diet depressed (P < 0.05) liquid turnover rate. Based upon data from cattle, decreases in the forage portion of the diet had a similar depressing (P < 0.05) effect.
AN EVALUATION OF THE RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN DIETARY PARAMETERS AND RUMEN SOLID TURNOVER RATE
Authors: EVANS ESSI
Published: March 2010

Data were compiled from published sources in order to relate the effects of level of feed intake, dietary energy concentration, energy intake level and dietary roughage level on the rate of turnover of solid material in the rumen for both sheep and cattle. Regression analyses were used to quantify the effects of dietary parameters and combinations of these parameters on rumen solid turnover rates. Significant simple regression relationships were established between feed intake and solid turnover rates with both sheep (r = 0.479) and cattle (r = 0.281). Solid turnover rates were negatively related to dietary digestible energy concentrations based upon data from sheep (r = −0.468), but no relationship (P > 0.05) between the two parameters was found for cattle. Solid turnover rates were increased (P < 0.05) with elevations in digestible energy intakes and with elevations in the percentage of dietary forage with sheep. From multiple regression analyses, it was learned that elevations in the energy density in the diet depressed solid turnover rates in both ruminant species.
DIGESTION OF CORN AND ALFALFA SILAGES IN THE STOMACH AND SMALL INTESTINE OF SHEEP PREPARED WITH TWO RE-ENTRANT CANNULAS
Authors: VEIRA D. M. , IVAN M.
Published: March 2010

Four wethers, each fitted with a re-entrant cannula in the proximal duodenum and terminal ileum, were used to study digestion of corn and alfalfa silages. The four silages fed were (1) corn silage (2) corn silage with 0.6% urea (fresh weight basis) added at the time of ensiling (3) direct-cut alfalfa silage treated with formic acid (5 g/kg fresh alfalfa) and (4) wilted alfalfa silage. Urea additions to corn silage increased crude protein from 8.1 to 13.2% which resulted in an increase (P < 0.05) in microbial yield from 1.99 to 3.23 g N/100 g organic matter (OM) apparently digested in the stomach. The apparent digestion of OM in the stomach was lower (P < 0.05) with formic-acid-treated alfalfa silage (48.6%) compared to the wilted alfalfa silage (56.1%), but this difference had disappeared at the ileum. The preservation of alfalfa silage with formic acid compared to wilting resulted in a greater (P < 0.05) flow from the stomach and digestion within the small intestine of non-ammonia nitrogen. This effect of formic acid on non-ammonia dynamics was unrelated to microbial yield.
THE EFFECTS OF TOWER AND MIDAS RAPESEED MEALS ON MILK PRODUCTION AND CONCENTRATIONS OF GOITROGENS AND IODIDE IN MILK
Authors: LAARVELD B. , CHRISTENSEN D. A. , BROCKMAN R. P.
Published: March 2010

Low glucosinolate Tower rapeseed meal (RSM), high glucosinolate Midas RSM and soybean meal (SBM) were compared in two separate 4 × 4 Latin squares with experimental periods of 35 days. Tower or Midas RSM was fed to lactating cows at 0, 5.7, 13.2 and 18.9% of the total diet (air-dry basis) and SBM was added to bring the protein level in the supplement for all diets to 18.9%. Replacement of SBM with Tower RSM resulted in a decrease (P < 0.01) in apparent digestibilities of crude protein and energy. Crude fiber and ether-extract digestibilities were not different. Daily digestible crude protein available decreased (P < 0.01) with higher levels of Tower RSM in the diet. Concentrations of thiocyanate in milk increased (P < 0.05) at all dietary levels of Tower and Midas RSM. RSM decreased (P < 0.05) the concentration of iodide in milk, with little effect due to Tower or Midas RSM or to level of RSM supplementation on the degree of milk iodide depression.
THE GOITROGENIC POTENTIAL OF TOWER AND MIDAS RAPESEED MEAL IN DAIRY COWS DETERMINED BY THYROTROPIN-RELEASING HORMONE TEST
Authors: LAARVELD B. , CHRISTENSEN D. A. , BROCKMAN R. P.
Published: March 2010

The goitrogenic potential of a low glucosinolate rapeseed meal (RSM) (Brassica napus L. ’Tower’) in dairy cows was evaluated by a thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) test. The TRH test consisted of measuring the plasma concentrations of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroid hormones after an intravenous injection of 300 μg TRH. A high glucosinolate RSM (B. napus L. ’Midas’) and soybean meal (SBM) served as positive and negative controls, respectively. Tower and Midas RSM were fed at 0, 5.7, 13.2 and 18.9% of the total diet (air-dry basis) and SBM was added to bring the protein level in the supplement for all diets to 18.9%. Tower and Midas RSM were evaluated in two separate 4 × 4 Latin squares. When Midas RSM was fed at levels of 13.2 and 18.9% in the diet, plasma TSH concentrations were increased (P < 0.05) in response to TRH. Similarly, plasma thyroxine (T4) concentrations were decreased (P < 0.05). This indicates that diets with 13.2 and 18.9% Midas RSM contain sufficient quantities of goitrogens to affect thyroid function. Similar trends were observed when the 5.7% Midas RSM diet was fed. Triiodothyronine (T3) concentrations and T3:T4 ratios were not affected by Midas RSM in the diet. The plasma TSH, T4 and T3 concentrations in response to TRH were similar for cows fed the Tower RSM and SBM diets. The use of Tower RSM up to 18.9% of the total diet is without goitrogenic effect as measured by the TRH test.
BISON AND HEREFORD STEER DIGESTION OF SEDGE HAY
Authors: HAWLEY A. W. L. , PEDEN D. G. , STRICKLIN W. R.
Published: March 2010

The digestibility of sedge hay was measured in six bison (Bison bison) steers and six Hereford (Bos taurus) steers in two total fecal collection trials. The digestion coefficients of all nutrients, except lignin, were significantly greater (P < 0.05) in bison than in cattle. For bison and cattle, respectively, overall mean apparent digestibility coefficients, expressed as a percent, were: dry matter, 51.3 and 46.0; crude protein, 38.3 and 27.6; crude fat, 64.2 and 54.4; neutral detergent fiber, 54.7 and 50.0; acid detergent fiber, 47.0 and 42.4; hemicellulose, 67.1 and 61.7; lignin, 25.2 and 18.7; and gross energy, 50.6 and 45.3. Acid-insoluble ash and lignin were not suitable internal indicators for making species comparisons of digestibilities because of the greater apparent digestion of the indicators by bison. During the summer fecal collection trial, mean daily dry matter intakes of bison and cattle were 1.6% and 1.4% of body weight, respectively. During the winter trial, the mean daily dry matter intake of cattle (2.0% of body weight) was greater (P < 0.05) than that of bison (1.6% of body weight). There was no difference (P > 0.05) between bison and cattle in particle size of feed consumed. Greater forage digestibility resulted in greater (P < 0.05) average daily gain in bison only in the summer trial, when nutrient consumption by cattle was below the published maintenance requirement of the cattle.
SILICA METABOLISM AND SILICA UROLITHIASIS IN RUMINANTS: A REVIEW
Authors: BAILEY C. B.
Published: March 2010

Calculi composed mainly of silica form in ruminants (cattle, sheep and buffalo) in North America, Australia, the U.S.S.R. and India. Death due to obstruction of the urethra by large calculi is a serious problem in some areas. Obstruction is more common in castrate males than in intact males or females because of differences in the anatomy of the urethra. In addition to silica, calculi contain up to 20% organic matter and, occasionally, appreciable quantities of calcium oxalate or carbonate. Although the ultrastructural characteristics of calculi vary, silica is present entirely as hydrated (isotropic) silicon dioxide. The graminous species that constitute the main diet of afflicted animals contain high levels of silica (up to 6%). Dissolution of the more soluble fractions of this silica saturates the reticulo-rumen fluid with silicic acid, the chemical species that is absorbed and excreted. In the kidney, reabsorption of water raises the urinary concentration of silicic acid more than 100-fold compared with the concentration in glomerular filtrate, and often to values well above saturation. At these concentrations, silicic acid polymerizes in vitro to form large molecular weight micelles of silica. In the process of calculus formation, similar micelles are thought to coalesce and precipitate in association with proteinaceous sustances in urine. This would account for the presence of organic matter in calculi. Under the scanning electron microscope, particles can be seen in calculi that resemble silica particles produced in vitro from solutions of silicic acid and protein. Calculus formation in steers on Western Canadian range, or given range grass hay in confinement, is largely abolished by increasing the intake of water. Water intake was increased by providing supplements containing 15–25% sodium chloride. The effect was to increase urine output, lower the urinary concentration of silicic acid, and prevent deposition of silica in the bladder. This simple procedure constituted the most effective and least costly means of preventing calculus formation under range conditions in southern Alberta.
PEDIGREE INDEXING OF HOLSTEIN BULLS USED IN ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION
Authors: SCHAEFFER L.R.
Published: March 2010

Bulls entering artificial insemination in Canada from 1957 to 1980 were indexed, using various combinations of ancestors, for milk, fat percentage, and 10 conformation traits. Correlations between the indexes and actual progeny test proofs were used to compare indexes with different combinations of ancestors. When sire, dam, and both maternal grandparents were used in the index, the correlations were 0.52 for milk yield, 0.64 for fat percentage, and 0.41 for final class. When only the sire was included, the corresponding correlations were 0.57, 0.48, and 0.39. The regression coefficients for predicting a bull’s proof from only the sire’s proof and dam’s estimated transmitting ability were 0.457 and 0.308, respectively, for milk yields, and 0.526 and 0.478 for fat percentage. For the type classification traits, the dam’s and maternal granddam’s actual classifications, coded 1 to 6 for poor through excellent, were used rather than an estimated transmitting ability. The regression coefficients for predicting a bull’s type proof from only the sire’s proof and dam’s classification were 0.064 and 0.507, respectively, for feet and legs, 0.147 and 1.310 for final class, 0.213 and 0.969 for rump, and 0.131 and 0.957 for mammary system. Trends in indexes of young bull entries have increased over time for production and type.
PORK QUALITY ATTRIBUTES: THEIR ESTIMATION AND THEIR RELATIONSHIPS WITH CARCASS COMPOSITION IN COMMERCIAL PIGS
Authors: MARTIN A. H. , FREDEEN H. T. , L’HIRONDELLE P. J. , MURRAY A. C. , WEISS G. M.
Published: March 2010

A survey of certain muscle parameters was conducted on 3114 swine carcasses at three major Canadian commercial packing plants and from a wide range in carcass fatness (backfat measurements) and carcass weights. Sex of carcass had no significant effect on pork quality measurements. There were large regional differences in the incidence of pale, soft, exudative (PSE) and dark, firm, dry (DFD) musculature and these may have resulted from differences in method of stunning (CO2 vs. electrical) or from differences in preslaughter stress and other management conditions associated with plant of origin. Muscle quality attributes were not associated with grade (ie., backfat and weight) and multiple regression equations based on several measures of carcass composition explained less than 11% of the variance observed in any of the quality attributes. The frequency of moderate to severely watery longissimus dorsi muscle (PSE score < 2.0) ranged from 2.5 to 9.7% depending on plant of origin, with plant differences in the frequency of DFD musculature (scores > 3.5) ranging from 21.5 to 34.9%. Muscle temperature and pH taken 45 min postmortem, the measures conventionally employed for early detection of potentially PSE pork, were of negligible utility for this purpose.