bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Total Antioxidant Capacity and Antioxidant Enzymes in Serum, Saliva, and Gingival Crevicular Fluid of Preeclamptic Women With and Without Periodontal Disease
Authors: Canakci Varol , Yildirim Abdulkadir , Canakci Cenk Fatih , Eltas Abubekir , Cicek Yasin , Canakci Humeyra
Published: August 2007

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities, and malondialdehyde levels in serum, saliva, and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) in preeclamptic and normotensive pregnant women with and without periodontal disease.

Methods: Forty pregnant women, consisting of 10 preeclamptic subjects with periodontal disease, 10 preeclamptic periodontally healthy subjects, 10 normotensive subjects with periodontal disease, and 10 normotensive periodontally healthy subjects, were included in this study. After clinical measurement and samplings, total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase activities, and malondialdehyde levels in serum, saliva, and GCF of preeclamptic and normotensive pregnant women were determined, and the data were tested by non‐parametric tests. Total antioxidant capacity of the clinical samples was measured using a novel automated colorimetric measurement method. Superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities and malondialdehyde levels were determined spectrophotometrically.

Results: Superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities in GCF and serum and total antioxidant capacity in saliva, GCF, and serum were the lowest in preeclamptic women with periodontal disease. However, serum and GCF levels of malondialdehyde were the highest in this group of pregnant women.

Conclusions: Systemic and local antioxidant and total antioxidant capacities are affected by periodontal disease in addition to the impact of preeclamptic status. Similar comments may be made for the increases in systemic and local malondialdehyde levels.
Minocycline HCl Microspheres Reduce Red‐Complex Bacteria in Periodontal Disease Therapy
Authors: Goodson J. Max , Gunsolley John C. , Grossi Sara G. , Bland Paul S. , Otomo‐Corgel Joan , Doherty Frances , Comiskey Judy
Published: August 2007

Background: The objective of this trial was to measure the antimicrobial effects of a minocycline HCl microsphere (MM) local drug‐delivery system when used as an adjunct to scaling and root planing (SRP). DNA probe analysis for 40 bacteria was used to evaluate the oral bacteria of 127 subjects with moderate to advanced chronic periodontitis.

Methods: Subjects were randomly assigned to either SRP alone (N = 65) or MM + SRP (N = 62). The primary endpoints of this study were changes in numbers and proportions of the red‐complex bacteria (RCB) and the sum of Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia (formally T. forsythensis), and Treponema denticola relative to 40 oral bacteria at each test site from baseline to day 30. Numbers of RCB from the five test sites were averaged to provide a value for each subject.

Results: MM + SRP reduced the proportion of RCB by 6.49% and the numbers by 9.4 × 105. The reduction in RCB proportions and numbers by SRP alone (5.03% and 5.1 × 105, respectively) was significantly less. In addition, MM + SRP reduced probing depth by 1.38 mm (compared to 1.01 mm by SRP alone), bleeding on probing was reduced by 25.2% (compared to 13.8% by SRP alone), and a clinical attachment level gain of 1.16 mm (compared to 0.80 mm by SRP alone) was achieved.

Conclusion: These observations support the hypothesis that RCBs are responsible for periodontal disease and that local antimicrobial therapy using MM + SRP effectively reduces numbers of RCBs and their proportions to a greater extent than SRP alone.
Efficacy of an Automated Flossing Device in Different Regions of the Mouth
Authors: Hague Anne L. , Carr Michele P.
Published: August 2007

Background: Manual floss is often difficult to use, particularly in hard to reach posterior teeth. Many prefer automated flossers because of their ease of use. The aim of the present study was to compare the effectiveness of an automated flosser to manual floss for anterior, premolar, and molar teeth using the plaque index (PI) and gingival (GI) index.

Methods: A 10‐week, two‐treatment period, crossover design was used. The subjects were randomly assigned to control (C), manual (M), or automated (A) groups. The PI and GI were measured interdentally at baseline and days 15 and 30. Treatment subjects were assigned to the opposite group at the second baseline visit after a 2‐week washout period. Subjects brushed twice a day. Treatment subjects used their respective floss once per day. Subjects refrained from oral hygiene 24 hours before study visits. The PI was measured pre‐ and postintervention on days 15 and 30. Mixed‐effect analysis of covariance crossover models were used to test group effects at days 15 and 30 from both periods with the corresponding mean preintervention and baseline score as covariates for PI and GI, respectively. Within‐subject treatment comparisons were made, and carryover effects were evaluated.

Results: The majority of subjects (N = 102) were students (mean age, 23.3 ± 5.0 [SD] years) with minimal gingivitis at baseline. At days 15 and 30, the M group had more plaque than the A group for all regions (P ≤0.008), and the C group had more plaque than the A (P <0.001) and M groups (P ≤ 0.021) for all regions. No regional treatment effect was observed for the GI. Within‐subject analyses were more favorable for the A group than the M group. No significant carryover effect was observed.

Conclusions: The automated flossing device removed significantly more interproximal plaque in molar, premolar, and anterior teeth compared to manual floss at days 15 and 30. There was no significant difference in interdental inflammation between groups.
Histologic and Histomorphometric Evaluation of Alveolar Ridge Augmentation Using Bone Grafts and Titanium Micromesh in Humans
Authors: Corinaldesi Giuseppe , Pieri Francesco , Marchetti Claudio , Fini Milena , Aldini Nicolò Nicoli , Giardino Roberto
Published: August 2007

Background: Recently, the use of titanium micromesh for alveolar bone augmentation has drawn interest; however, only limited histologic data are available on the quality of the bone regenerated. Therefore, this study compared the use of 100% intraoral autogenous bone to a combination of intraoral autogenous bone (70%) and bovine porous bone mineral (BPBM) (30%) for alveolar ridge augmentation with titanium micromesh histologically and histomorphometrically.

Methods: Twelve partially edentulous patients required alveolar bone augmentation before implant insertion because of ridge resorption. The defect sites, six in the maxilla and six in the mandible, were reconstructed with particulate autologous bone (control group, N = 6) or a mixture of autologous bone and BPBM (test group, N = 6) in combination with titanium micromesh. Core biopsies were taken from the defect sites 8 to 9 months after grafting at the time of implant insertion.

Results: Newly formed compact bone with a well‐organized lamellar pattern was identified in all specimens. In the samples taken from the test group, the BPBM particles were surrounded completely by newly formed bone with no signs of resorption. The mean total bone volume was 62.38% ± 13.02% in the control group and 52.88% ± 11.47% in the test group. The soft tissue volume was 37.61% ± 13.02% and 29.96% ± 12.58%, respectively, and the residual BPBM volume was 17.15% ± 2.72% in the test group. No statistical difference was observed in the histologic parameters evaluated, irrespective of graft type and site (P >0.05).

Conclusion: Within the limits of this study, BPBM (30%) in combination with autogenous bone (70%) did not yield a lower percentage of new bone formed compared to autogenous bone alone in ridge augmentation with titanium micromesh.
Redefining Cancer during the Interwar Period
Authors: Domenech Rosa M. Medina , Castañeda Claudia
Published: August 2007

The implementation of radiation technologies within the British hospital system was a significant element in the establishment of the managerial organization of medicine in the interwar period.

One aspect of this implementation process was that, in order to install cancer patients within the “radiotherapy factory,” British medical officers of health adapted their organizational cultures from being environmentalists to being administrators of medical services.

One of the consequences of this change was the accomplishment of a much more reductive approach to cancer compared with a more holistic approach to the disease.
Differences in Cause-of-Death Patterns Between the Native Dutch and Persons of Indonesian Descent in the Netherlands
Authors: Ho Lintje , Bos Vivian , Kunst Anton E.
Published: August 2007

We studied differences in cause-specific mortality between highly integrated first- and second-generation Indonesians and native Dutch. We used the municipal population registers and cause-of-death registry to estimate rate ratios via Poisson regression analyses. Although overall mortality levels were similar, cause-of-death patterns varied between Indonesian migrants and native Dutch; the similar levels in overall mortality coincided with the high degree of integration of Indonesians within Dutch society. The differences in cause-of-death patterns may reflect persistent influences of country of origin and migration history.
Widening Socioeconomic Disparities in US Childhood Mortality, 1969–2000
Authors: Singh Gopal K. , Kogan Michael D.
Published: August 2007

Objectives. We examined the extent to which area socioeconomic inequalities in overall and cause-specific mortality among US children aged 1–14 years changed between 1969 and 2000.

Methods. We linked a census-based deprivation index to US county mortality data from 1969 to 2000. We used Poisson and log-linear regression and inequality indices to analyze temporal disparities.

Results. Despite marked declines in child mortality, socioeconomic gradients (relative mortality risks) in overall child mortality increased substantially during the study period. During 1969–1971, children in the most deprived socioeconomic quintile had 52%, 13%, 69%, and 76% higher risks of all-cause, birth defect, unintentional injury, and homicide mortality, respectively, than did children in the least deprived socioeconomic quintile. The corresponding relative risks increased to 86%, 44%, 177%, 159%, respectively from 1998–2000.

Conclusions. Dramatic reductions in mortality among children in all socioeconomic quintiles represent a major public health success. However, children in higher socioeconomic quintiles experienced much larger declines in overall, injury, and natural-cause mortality than did those in more deprived socioeconomic quintiles, which contributed to the widening socioeconomic gap in mortality. Widening disparities in child mortality may reflect increasing polarization among deprivation quintiles in material and social conditions.
Safe Play Spaces To Promote Physical Activity in Inner-City Children: Results from a Pilot Study of an Environmental Intervention
Authors: Farley Thomas A. , Meriwether Rebecca A. , Baker Erin T. , Watkins Liza T. , Johnson Carolyn C. , Webber Larry S.
Published: August 2007

Objectives. We evaluated the effect of providing a safe play space on the physical activity level of inner-city schoolchildren.

Methods. In 1 of 2 matched neighborhoods, we opened a schoolyard and provided attendants to ensure children’s safety. Over the next 2 years we directly observed the number of children and their physical activity levels in the school-yard, as well as in the surrounding intervention and comparison neighborhoods. We also surveyed children in the schools in the intervention and comparison neighborhoods regarding sedentary activities.

Results. After the schoolyard was opened, a mean of 71.4 children used it on weekdays and 25.8 used it on weekends during the school year. When observed, 66% of these children were physically active. The number of children who were outdoors and physically active was 84% higher in the intervention neighborhood than the comparison neighborhood. Survey results showed that children in the intervention school reported declines relative to the children in the comparison school in watching television, watching movies and DVDs, and playing video games on weekdays.

Conclusion. When children were provided with a safe play space, we observed a relative increase in their physical activity. Provision of safe play spaces holds promise as a simple replicable intervention.
The Effect of Name-Based Reporting and Partner Notification on HIV Testing in New York State
Authors: Tesoriero James M. , Battles Haven B. , Heavner Karyn , Leung Shu-Yin John , Nemeth Chris , Pulver Wendy , Birkhead Guthrie S.
Published: August 2007

Objectives. We examined the effect of New York’s HIV Reporting and Partner Notification law on HIV testing levels and on the HIV testing decisions of high-risk individuals.

Methods. In-person interviews were administered to 761 high-risk individuals to assess their knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors regarding HIV testing and reporting. Trends in HIV testing were also assessed in publicly funded HIV counseling and testing programs, Medicaid, and New York’s Maternal Pediatric Newborn Prevention and Care Program.

Results. High-risk individuals had limited awareness of the reporting and notification law, and few cited concern about named reporting as a reason for avoiding or delaying HIV testing. HIV testing levels, posttest counseling rates, and anonymous-to-confidential conversion rates among those who tested HIV positive were not affected by the law. Medicaid-related HIV testing rates also remained stable. HIV testing during pregnancy continued to trend upward following implementation of the law. Findings held true within demographic and risk-related subgroups.

Conclusions. HIV reporting has permitted improved monitoring of New York’s HIV/AIDS epidemic. This benefit has not been offset by decreases in HIV testing behavior, including willingness to test among those at high risk of acquiring HIV.
Food Insecurity and Obesity: A Comparison of Self-Reported and Measured Height and Weight
Authors: Lyons Ariel-Ann , Park Jungwee , Nelson Connie H.
Published: August 2007

Objectives. We used self-reported and measured height and weight data to examine the relationship between food insecurity and obesity.

Methods. We defined food insecurity according to 3 different models. We used self-reported and measured height and weight from 2 versions of the Canadian Community Health Survey to calculate obesity rates.

Results. When self-reported height and weight data were used in calculating obesity prevalence rates, rates were significantly higher among food-insecure respondents than among food-secure respondents; by contrast, when measured height and weight data were used, there were no significant differences. Female respondents classified as food insecure and experiencing mild hunger were at greater risk of obesity than were food-secure female respondents when measured height and weight were used.

Conclusions. Associations between obesity and food insecurity are more pronounced when self-reported data on height and weight are used than when measured height and weight data are used. Caution should be used when using self-reported data to examine the relationship between food insecurity and obesity.
Self-Neglect Among the Elderly: A Model Based on More Than 500 Patients Seen by a Geriatric Medicine Team
Authors: Dyer Carmel Bitondo , Goodwin James S. , Pickens-Pace Sabrina , Burnett Jason , Kelly P. Adam
Published: August 2007

Objectives. We sought to identify the functional, cognitive, and social factors associated with self-neglect among the elderly to aid the development of etiologic models to guide future research.

Methods. A cross-sectional chart review was conducted at Baylor College of Medicine Geriatrics Clinic in Houston, Tex. Patients were assessed using standardized comprehensive geriatric assessment tools.

Results. Data analysis was performed using the charts of 538 patients; the average patient age was 75.6 years, and 70% were women. Further analysis in 460 persons aged 65 years and older showed that 50% had abnormal Mini Mental State Examination scores, 15% had abnormal Geriatric Depression Scale scores, 76.3% had abnormal physical performance test scores, and 95% had moderate-to-poor social support per the Duke Social Support Index. Patients had a range of illnesses; 46.4% were taking no medications.

Conclusions. A model of self-neglect was developed wherein executive dyscontrol leads to functional impairment in the setting of inadequate medical and social support. Future studies should aim to provide empirical evidence that validates this model as a framework for self-neglect. If validated, this model will impart a better understanding of the pathways to self-neglect and provide clinicians and public service workers with more effective prevention and intervention strategies.
Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons: Opportunities for Control and Abolition
Authors: Sidel Victor W. , Levy Barry S.
Published: August 2007

Nuclear weapons pose a particularly destructive threat. Prevention of the proliferation and use of nuclear weapons is urgently important to public health.

“Horizontal” proliferation refers to nation-states or nonstate entities that do not have, but are acquiring, nuclear weapons or developing the capability and materials for producing them. “Vertical” proliferation refers to nation-states that do possess nuclear weapons and are increasing their stockpiles of these weapons, improving the technical sophistication or reliability of their weapons, or developing new weapons.

Because nation-states or other entities that wish to use or threaten to use nuclear weapons need methods for delivering those weapons, proliferation of delivery mechanisms must also be prevented. Controlling proliferation—and ultimately abolishing nuclear weapons—involves national governments, intergovernmental organizations, nongovernmental and professional organizations, and society at large.
Protecting Contract Workers: Case Study of the US Department of Energy’s Nuclear and Chemical Waste Management
Authors: Gochfeld Michael , Mohr Sandra
Published: August 2007

Increased reliance on subcontractors in all economic sectors is a serious occupational health and safety challenge. Short-term cost savings are offset by long-term liability. Hiring subcontractors brings specialized knowledge but also young, inexperienced, inadequately trained workers onto industrial and hazardous waste sites, which leads to increased rates of accidents and injuries.

Reliable data on subcontractor occupational health and safety programs and performance are sparse. The US Department of Energy has an excellent safety culture on paper, but procurement practices and contract language deliver a mixed message—including some safety disincentives.

Its biphasic safety outcome data are consistent with underreporting by some subcontractors and underachievement by others. These observations are relevant to the private and public sectors. Occupational health and safety should be viewed as an asset, not merely a cost.
Emergency Preparedness Among People Living Near US Army Chemical Weapons Sites After September 11, 2001
Authors: Williams Bryan L. , Magsumbol Melina S.
Published: August 2007

We examined trust in the army and perceptions of emergency preparedness among residents living near the Anniston, Ala, and Richmond, Ky, US Army chemical weapons stockpile sites shortly after September 11, 2001.

Residents (n = 655) living near the 2 sites who participated in a cross-sectional population were relatively unprepared in the event of a chemical emergency. The events of September 11 gave rise to concerns regarding the security of stored chemical weapons and the sites’ vulnerability to terrorist attacks. Although residents expressed trust in the army to manage chemical weapons safely, only a few expressed a desire to actively participate in site decisions.

Compliance with procedures during emergencies could be seriously limited, putting residents in these sites at higher levels of risk of exposure to chemical hazards than nonresidents.
Effect of Temperature on Delta‐9 Stearoyl‐ACP and Microsomal Omega‐6 Desaturase Gene Expression and Fatty Acid Content in Developing Soybean Seeds
Authors: Byfield Grace E. , Upchurch Robert G.
Published: August 2007

Delta‐9 stearoyl‐ACP (SAD) and microsomal omega‐6 oleate (FAD2) desaturases contribute to the maintenance of lipid fluidity in membranes and the fatty acid composition of storage lipids in seed. Since these enzymes must operate at varying environmental temperatures, they are under constitutive control, but they may also be subject to fine regulation both transcriptionally and posttranscriptionally. We measured transcript accumulation of the seed‐expressed SAD‐A and SAD‐B and FAD2‐1A and FAD2‐1B genes in the seeds of three soybean varieties grown at cool (22/18°C), normal (26/22°C), or warm (30/26°C) temperatures during pod fill. At the cool temperature, transcript accumulation of both the SAD and FAD2‐1 genes was significantly elevated, with FAD2‐1B 2‐ to 10‐fold or greater than FAD2‐1A at 35 d after flowering. Expression of both SAD and FAD2‐1 were significantly decreased in seed that developed at the warm temperature. Decreased FAD2‐1 transcript accumulation at the warm temperature was positively associated with significantly increased oleic and decreased linoleic acid content in the three varieties examined. Decreased SAD transcript accumulation at the warm temperature was positively associated with a significantly increased level of stearic acid but only in the high‐stearate mutant line, A6. We conclude that environmental temperature modulates oleic and linoleic acid in developing seed through regulated FAD2‐1 gene expression, but temperature modulation of stearic acid content in wild‐type soybean may be more complex, involving in addition to SAD‐A and ‐B, plastid thioesterase genes FATA and FATB.
Bermudagrass Seasonal Responses to Nitrogen Fertilization and Irrigation Detected Using Optical Sensing
Authors: Xiong X. , Bell G. E. , Solie J. B. , Smith M. W. , Martin B.
Published: August 2007

The objective of this study was to evaluate seasonal differences in bermudagrass response to N fertilization and irrigation by using optical sensing. A second objective was to determine if optical sensing could measure N status when the turf response to N was confounded by differences in moisture status. Bermudagrasses (Cynodon dactylon L.) ‘Rivera’ and ‘Yukon’ were managed under three irrigation treatments and six N treatments during the growing seasons in 2003 and 2004. Turf quality, normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), green normalized difference vegetation index (GNDVI), red light reflectance in relation to near infrared reflectance (R/NIR), and green light reflectance in relation to near infrared reflectance (G/NIR) were measured. Bermudagrass demonstrated a noticeable third‐order polynomial seasonal trend in response to N and irrigation treatment, and this trend was characterized as early‐, peak‐, mid‐ and late‐season responses. Normalized difference vegetation index and GNDVI demonstrated a better relationship with turf quality and N status than R/NIR and G/NIR. A comparison among the four indices showed NDVI to be more closely correlated with irrigation, N fertilization, and turf quality. Minimum acceptable and target NDVI were developed by seasonal period based on visual turf quality assessment. It was also found that NDVI response to N fertilization was not strongly affected by irrigation treatment and could be used as an indicator of N status and need regardless of irrigation treatment.
Performance of Yield and Stability of Advanced Wheat Genotypes under Heat Stress Environments of the Indo‐Gangetic Plains
Authors: Rane Jagadish , Pannu Raj Kumar , Sohu Virinder Singh , Saini Ran Singh , Mishra Banwari , Shoran Jag , Crossa Jose , Vargas Mateo , Joshi Arun Kumar
Published: August 2007

A set of 25 advanced breeding lines and released varieties of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) developed by different breeding centers in India were assessed for their adaptation in 18 different environments across the Indo‐Gangetic plains. The study was aimed at identifying genotype(s) with high yield stability across the environments in general and heat stress environments in particular. Jaipur and Varanasi were hotter than any other locations considered in this study. Considerable intralocation variation in genotypic response pattern was observed over the years and dates of sowing, and this was more conspicuous at Varanasi. Longer crop duration and short grain growth duration at Varanasi were in contrast to shorter crop duration and relatively longer grain growth period that supported better grain growth at Jaipur. The genotype × environment interaction biplots for grain yield revealed that genotypes Raj 3765 and Raj 4027, developed at Jaipur, were more stable across all environments. This was due to their adaptability to high‐temperature environments, and hence they are being proposed as promising germplasm sources for late‐sown and/or warmer environments. Since the pattern of genotypic response observed at Jaipur was not similar to that observed at Varanasi, it is suggested that a common breeding strategy, if any, should emphasize grain yield stability for breeding for high‐temperature tolerance. This can also take care of intralocation variation in genotypic response over the years and dates of sowing at Varanasi.
Reproductive Characterization of Bahiagrass Germplasm
Authors: Acuña C. A. , Blount A. R. , Quesenberry K. H. , Hanna W. W. , Kenworthy K. E.
Published: August 2007

Bahiagrass (Paspalum notatum Flüggé) is one of the major forage grasses used for beef cattle production in the southern USA. Description of the reproductive characteristics of bahiagrass germplasm is needed for genetic improvement of this forage crop. The objective was to determine and compare the mode of reproduction of diploid and tetraploid germplasm of bahiagrass. Reproductive behavior was determined by embryo sac observations and a series of controlled pollination studies in the greenhouse and field in 2004 and 2005. Two sexual diploid populations (‘Pensacola’ and ‘Tifton 9’) were not different in self‐ or cross‐fertility, indicating that the general fertility of the crop was not affected by phenotypic mass selection. Sexual diploids, as a group, were determined to be primarily cross‐pollinated, with low but variable levels of self‐fertility. A group of 20 artificially induced tetraploids was determined to be primarily sexual and cross‐pollinated. Fertility of these autotetraploids was lower than the original diploids. Two selected sexual tetraploids produced similar amounts of seed when self‐ or cross‐pollinated. In contrast, six other tetraploids, including the cultivars Argentine and Wilmington, the experimental hybrid Tifton 7, and three plant introductions 315732, 315733, and 315734 reproduced primarily by apomixis. The sexual or apomictic expression, the general fertility, and other agronomic characteristics of these groups of tetraploids define their usefulness for genetic improvement research.
Broadband Spectral Reflectance Models of Turfgrass Species and Cultivars to Drought Stress
Authors: Jiang Yiwei , Carrow Robert N.
Published: August 2007

The objective of this study was to assess canopy broadband spectral reflectance for turfgrasses under drought stress. Optimum turf quality (TQ) and leaf firing (LF) models were developed and compared based on two, three, and five wavelength bands. Sods of bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon L. × C. transvaalensis Burtt‐Davy), seashore paspalum (Paspalum vaginatum Swartz), zoysiagrass (Zoysia japonica Steud.), and St. Augustinegrass [Stenotaphrum secundatum (Walt.) Kuntze], and seeded tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) were used in this study with three cultivars each of bermudagrass, seashore paspalum, and tall fescue. Traditional vegetation indices (VIs) based on two bands within 660 to 950 nm were not as sensitive as three to five broadband models using a wider band range of 660 to 1480 nm. Optimum models were cultivar specific models, even within a species. The broadband wavelength at R900 and R1200 should be considered in drought sensitive spectral models since they were most often observed and exhibited high partial R2 values. These results suggest that mobile broadband spectral devices to map turfgrass responses to drought stress would benefit by the availability of three to five broadbands that could be user selected for optimum, cultivar specific models.
Zoysiagrass Species and Genotypes Differ in Their Winter Injury and Freeze Tolerance
Authors: Patton Aaron J. , Reicher Zachary J.
Published: August 2007

Lack of cold hardiness may limit widespread use of newly released zoysiagrass (Zoysia spp.) cultivars in the transition zone. Our objectives were to quantify differences in the winter injury of 35 zoysiagrass genotypes in field plots in West Lafayette, IN, and the freeze tolerance of 13 genotypes in a cold stress simulator as well as determine the relationship between leaf width, establishment rate, and autumn growth with winter injury. Winter injury varied between years and among genotypes in the field study. Zoysia japonica Steud. genotypes had less winter injury each year than Z. matrella (L.) Merr. genotypes. Genotypes of Z. japonica available as seed had less winter injury (2% in both years) than genotypes of Z. japonica (41%, 2005; 54%, 2006) and Z. matrella (51%, 2005; 73%, 2006) available only as vegetative propagules. ‘Meyer’, ‘Chinese Common’, and ‘Zenith’ were the commercially available cultivars exhibiting the least winter injury (<7%) in both years, whereas ‘Victoria’, ‘DeAnza’, ‘Diamond’, and ‘Empress’ had the most winter injury (>88%) both years. There was a relationship (r2 = 0.48, P = 0.0088) between freeze tolerance (LT50) in the cold stress simulator and winter injury in the field. Freeze tolerance ranged from −8.4°C (Diamond) to −11.5°C (Meyer and Zenith). Meyer has been the industry standard for zoysiagrass, but our research has identified other commercially available cultivars and genotypes with winter injury similar to Meyer.
Influence of three anesthetic protocols on glomerular filtration rate in dogs
Authors: Fusellier Marion , Desfontis Jean-Claude , Madec Stéphane , Gautier Freddy , Debailleul Michelle , Gogny Marc
Published: August 2007

Objective—To investigate renal function in clinically normal dogs when awake and during anesthesia with medetomidine; xylazine, ketamine, and halothane (XKH) combination; or propofol.

Animals—10 adult female Beagles.

Procedures—At intervals of 15 days, dogs were administered medetomidine (0.05 mg/kg, IV); XKH combination (xylazine [1 mg/kg, IV], ketamine [5 mg/kg, IV], and halothane [1% end-tidal concentration]); or propofol (6 mg/kg, IV) to induce anesthesia or no treatment. Glomerular filtration rate was assessed on the basis of renal uptake (RU; determined via renal scintigraphy) and plasma clearance (CL) of technetium 99m-labeled diethylenetriamine peentaacetic acid (99mTc-DTPA).

Results—In awake dogs, mean ± SEM RU was 9.7 ± 0.4% and CL was 3.86 ± 0.23 mL/min/ kg. Renal uptake and CL of 99mTc-DTPA were not significantly modified by administration of XKH (RU, 11.4 ± 0.9%; CL, 4.6 ± 0.32 mL/min/kg) or propofol (RU, 9.7 ± 0.3%; CL, 3.78 ± 0.37 mL/min/kg). Half-life elimination time of plasma 99mTc-DTPA decreased significantly in XKH-anesthetized dogs, compared with the value in awake dogs (14.4 minutes and 28.9 minutes, respectively). However, glomerular filtration rate was significantly decreased by administration of medetomidine (RU, 3.9 ± 0.1%), and the time to maximum kidney activity was significantly increased (867 ± 56 seconds vs 181 ± 11 seconds without anesthesia).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated that anesthesia with propofol or an XKH combination did not alter renal function in healthy Beagles, but anesthesia with medetomidine decreased early RU of 99mTc-DTPA.
Evaluation of increased subchondral bone density in areas of contact in the metacarpophalangeal joint during joint loading in horses
Authors: Easton Katrina L. , Kawcak Chris E.
Published: August 2007

Objective—To quantitatively evaluate contact area under 2 loads and subjectively compare contact areas with subchondral bone (SCB) density patterns in intact metacarpophalangeal joints of horses.

Sample Population—6 forelimbs from horses without musculoskeletal disease.

Procedures—Computed tomographic scans of intact metacarpophalangeal joints were analyzed to obtain SCB density measurements. Each limb was loaded on a materials testing system to 150° and 120° extension in the metacarpophalangeal joint, and the joint was stained via intra-articular injection with safranin-O or toluidine blue, respectively. Each joint was disarticulated, and the surface area was digitized. Total articular surface area, contact area, and percentage contact area at each angle were calculated for the distal third metacarpal condyles, the proximal phalanx, and the proximal sesamoid bones.

Results—Contact area on the third metacarpal condyles, proximal sesamoid bones, and the proximal phalanx significantly increased with increased load. Areas of contact subjectively appeared to have a higher density on computed tomographic scans.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Areas consistently in contact under higher load were associated with increased SCB density. This supports the idea that the SCB adapts to the load applied to it. As load increased, contact area also increased, suggesting that areas not normally loaded may have a high degree of stress during impact loading. Quantifying how contact in the joint changes under different loading conditions and the adaptation of the bone to this change in normal and abnormal joints may provide insight into the pathogenesis of osteochondral disease.
Effect of computed tomography display window and image plane on diagnostic certainty for characteristics of dysplastic elbow joints in dogs
Authors: Tromblee Tonya C. , Jones Jeryl C. , Bahr Anne M. , Shires Peter K. , Aref Susanne
Published: August 2007

Objective—To test the effects of computed tomography (CT) image plane and window settings on diagnostic certainty for CT characteristics associated with dysplastic elbow joints (elbow joint dysplasia) in dogs and to provide optimal display guidelines for these CT characteristics.

Sample Population—CT images of 50 dysplastic elbow joints from 49 lame dogs and 10 elbow joints from 5 sound dogs.

Procedures—CT image data were obtained in transverse, sagittal, and dorsal planes. Each plane was examined by use of 3 Hounsfield unit (HU) window settings. Two veterinary radiologists independently evaluated sets of CT images for evidence of 7 CT characteristics. Effect of elbow joint status, image plane, and window settings on diagnostic certainty for these CT characteristics was tested by use of a visual analogue scale.

Results—Diagnostic certainty for abnormalities of the medial coronoid process (MCP) and radial incisure was highest in the transverse plane, subchondral defects or sclerosis of the trochlea humeri was highest in the dorsal plane, and joint incongruity was highest in the sagittal plane. Certainty for hypoattenuating subchondral defects or fissures was highest at 2,500 or 3,500 HUs, whereas certainty for subchondral sclerosis was highest at 1,500 HUs and lowest at 3,500 HUs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Diagnostic certainty for CT characteristics of elbow joint dysplasia in dogs was affected by image display variables. Diagnostic certainty for altered subchondral bone density was primarily influenced by window settings, whereas structural MCP abnormalities and joint incongruity were influenced most by image plane.
Comparison of the complement fixation test and competitive ELISA for serodiagnosis of Anaplasma marginale infection in experimentally infected steers
Authors: Coetzee Johann F. , Schmidt Peggy L. , Apley Michael D. , Reinbold James B. , Kocan Katherine M.
Published: August 2007

Objective—To compare sensitivity of a complement fixation (CF) test and competitive ELISA (cELISA) for detection of Anaplasma marginale in experimentally infected steers.

Animals—40 crossbred (Angus-Simmental) steers.

Procedures—Steers were inoculated with 2.6 × 109 A marginale–infected erythrocytes (day 0). Blood samples were collected on days 9, 13, 20, 28, 34, 41, 61, 96, 126, and 156 days after inoculation. The percentage of parasitized erythrocytes (PPE) was determined by microscopic examination of stained blood films, and sera were evaluated with the CF test and cELISA by use of USDA-approved methods. Sensitivity and agreement (κ statistic) between the 2 methods were determined. Persistent infections were confirmed by inoculation of blood obtained from infected steers into susceptible, splenectomized calves.

Results—9 days after inoculation, sensitivity of the cELISA was 47.5%, whereas the CF test failed to identify seropositive steers. After day 13, sensitivity of the cELISA and CF test was 100% and 20%, respectively. During peak parasitemia (day 20), sensitivity of the cELISA and CF test was 100%. Thereafter, sensitivity of the CF test fluctuated between 7.5% and 37.5%, whereas sensitivity of the cELISA remained at 100%. Overall sensitivity of the cELISA and CF test was 94.8% and 26.5%, respectively (κ statistic, 0.039).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The cELISA had superior sensitivity for serologic detection of A marginale.The CF test and cELISA each had a high percentage of false-negative results during the prepatent period. These findings are relevant for export certification and anaplasmosis prevention or eradication programs.
Morphologic and biochemical characterization of hyperextension of the metacarpophalangeal and metatarsophalangeal joints in llamas
Authors: Reed Shannon K. , Semevolos Stacy A. , Rist Paul K. , Valentine Beth A.
Published: August 2007

Objective—To determine the morphologic and biochemical characteristics of hyperextension of the metacarpophalangeal and metatarsophalangeal joints in llamas.

Animals—12 adult llamas (6 with bilateral hyperextension of the metacarpophalangeal or metatarsophalangeal joints and 6 age- and sex-matched control llamas).

Procedures—Llamas were evaluated by use of lameness examination, ultrasonography, and radiography. A CBC, serum biochemical analysis, and determination of concentrations of trace minerals in serum and liver samples were performed. Llamas were euthanized, and samples of the superficial digital flexor tendon, deep digital flexor tendon, and suspensory ligament were obtained from 4 areas and snap-frozen in liquid nitrogen or suspended in neutral-buffered 10% formalin. Immunohistochemical evaluation of collagen types I and III and assays for measurement of lysyl oxidase activity were performed.

Results—2 affected llamas had a visible gait deficit associated with metacarpophalangeal joint hyperextension. Radiographic evidence of osteoarthritis was detected in 1 severely affected llama, and ultrasonographic changes of soft tissue mineralization and suspensory desmitis were observed in 2 llamas. Liver concentrations of copper were lower and serum concentrations of zinc higher in affected llamas, compared with values in control llamas. Lysyl oxidase activity and collagen distribution did not differ significantly between groups.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Hyperextension of the metacarpophalangeal or metatarsophalangeal joints in llamas does not appear to be the result of injury or degeneration of the suspensory ligament or flexor tendons. Lower copper concentrations coupled with higher zinc concentrations in affected llamas may be indicative of secondary copper deficiency.
Noninvasive assessment of the facilitation of the nociceptive withdrawal reflex by repeated electrical stimulations in conscious dogs
Authors: Bergadano Alessandra , Andersen Ole K. , Arendt-Nielsen Lars , Spadavecchia Claudia
Published: August 2007

Objective—To investigate the facilitation of the nociceptive withdrawal reflex (NWR) by repeated electrical stimuli and the associated behavioral response scores in conscious, nonmedicated dogs as a measure of temporal summation and analyze the influence of stimulus intensity and frequency on temporal summation responses.

Animals—8 adult Beagles.

Procedures—Surface electromyographic responses evoked by transcutaneous constant-current electrical stimulation of ulnaris and digital plantar nerves were recorded from the deltoideus, cleidobrachialis, biceps femoris, and cranial tibial muscles. A repeated stimulus was given at 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1.0, and 1.1 × It (the individual NWR threshold intensity) at 2, 5, and 20 Hz. Threshold intensity and relative amplitude and latency of the reflex were analyzed for each stimulus configuration. Behavioral reactions were subjectively scored.

Results—Repeated sub-It stimuli summated and facilitated the NWR. To elicit temporal summation, significantly lower intensities were needed for the hind limb, compared with the forelimb. Stimulus frequency did not influence temporal summation, whereas increasing intensity resulted in significantly stronger electromyographic responses and nociception (determined via behavioral response scoring) among the dogs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In dogs, it is possible to elicit nociceptive temporal summation that correlates with behavioral reactions. These data suggest that this experimental technique can be used to evaluate nociceptive system excitability and efficacy of analgesics in canids.
Anatomic distribution and electrophysiologic properties of accessory atrioventricular pathways in dogs
Authors: Santilli Roberto A. , Spadacini Gianmario , Moretti Paolo , Perego Manuela , Perini Alberto , Crosara Serena , Tarducci Alberto
Published: August 2007

Objective—To evaluate the anatomic distribution and electrophysiologic properties of accessory pathways (APs) in dogs.

Design—Case series.

Animals—10 dogs with tachyarrhythmias associated with an AP.

Procedures—Each dog underwent electrophysiologic testing to determine the inducibility of documented and undocumented arrhythmias and to identify location, conduction properties, and antegrade and retrograde effective refractory periods of the APs. Radiofrequency catheter ablation was then performed.

Results—15 APs were identified; 7 dogs each had a single AP, and 3 had multiple APs. Fourteen of the 15 APs were right-sided (6 right free wall, 4 posteroseptal, 3 midseptal, and 1 anteroseptal), and 1 was left-sided (left free wall). All APs conducted in an all-or-none fashion. Unidirectional retrograde conduction was observed in 11 APs, and bidirectional conduction was observed in 4. All documented tachyarrhythmias could be induced during electrophysiologic testing; atrial fibrillation was also inducible in 2 dogs. Mean ± SD cycle duration of orthodromic atrioventricular reciprocating tachycardia was 215.80 ± 44.87 milliseconds. Mean shortest R-R interval during atrial fibrillation was 247.33 ± 83.17 milliseconds.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that in dogs, most APs are right-sided, had unidirectional retrograde conduction, and are associated with various arrhythmias, including orthodromic atrioventricular reciprocating tachycardia and atrial fibrillation without evidence of pre-excitation.
Use of basal serum or plasma cortisol concentrations to rule out a diagnosis of hypoadrenocorticism in dogs: 123 cases (2000–2005)
Authors: Lennon Elizabeth M. , Boyle Tonya E. , Hutchins Rae Grace , Friedenthal Arit , Correa Maria T. , Bissett Sally A. , Moses Lorra S. , Papich Mark G. , Birkenheuer Adam J.
Published: August 2007

Objective—To determine whether basal serum or plasma cortisol concentration can be used as a screening test to rule out hypoadrenocorticism in dogs.

Design—Retrospective case-control study.

Animals—110 dogs with nonadrenal gland illnesses and 13 dogs with hypoadrenocorticism.

Procedures—Sensitivity and specificity of basal serum or plasma cortisol concentrations of either ≤ 1 μg/dL or ≤ 2 μg/dL to detect dogs with hypoadrenocorticism were estimated by use of the ACTH stimulation test as the gold standard.

Results—Basal cortisol concentrations of ≤ 1 μg/dL had excellent sensitivity (100%) and specificity (98.2%) for detecting dogs with hypoadrenocorticism. For basal cortisol concentrations of ≤ 2 μg/dL, sensitivity was 100% but specificity was 78.2%.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—On the basis of sensitivity and specificity, basal serum or plasma cortisol concentrations had high negative predictive values over a wide range of prevalence rates and can be used to rule out a diagnosis of hypoadrenocorticism. Dogs with basal cortisol concentrations > 2 μg/dL that are not receiving corticosteroids, mitotane, or ketoconazole are highly unlikely to have hypoadrenocorticism. However, if the basal cortisol concentration is ≤ 2 μg/dL, little to no information regarding adrenal gland function can be obtained and an ACTH stimulation test should be performed.
Congenital retrosternal (Morgagni) diaphragmatic hernias in three horses
Authors: Pauwels Frederik F. , Hawkins Jan F. , MacHarg Margaret A. , Rothenbuhler Ryan D. , Baird Debra K. , Moulton Jason S.
Published: August 2007

Case Description—3 horses were examined and treated because of sudden onset of signs of abdominal pain.

Clinical Findings—All horses had a retrosternal (Morgagni) hernia involving the right side of the diaphragm. In each horse, the large colon was incarcerated in a right muscular defect in the diaphragm with a large hernial sac.

Treatment and Outcome—Definitive surgical repair of the hernia was not performed during the initial celiotomy. The hernia was repaired with mesh herniorrhaphy, but without resection of the hernia sac in 2 horses. For 1 horse, conservative management was applied. In the 2 horses treated with surgical correction, no major postoperative complications developed, and all 3 horses have been free of signs of abdominal pain.

Clinical Relevance—Horses with retrosternal hernias involving the diaphragm can develop clinical signs of intermittent obstruction of the large colon and chronic colic. In horses, retrosternal diaphragmatic hernias appear to develop exclusively in the right ventral aspect of the diaphragm and could represent an embryologic defect of diaphragm formation. Affected horses can be successfully treated with mesh herniorrhaphy or, in some instances, with conservative management.
Physical aggression as a function of perceived fighting ability among male and female prisoners
Authors: Archer John
Published: August 2007

Study 1 used two scenarios depicting provocations to investigate whether prisoners' willingness to engage in physical aggression would vary according to the perceived fighting ability (Resource Holding Power [RHP]) of the opponent. RHP was operationalized in terms of three levels of the size, number of allies, and reputation. The sample (both sexes; N=1,253) was taken from a range of British prisons. Unexpectedly, the prisoners said that they would be less likely to attack a weaker opponent than an equally matched one. The predicted decline from equally matched to more formidable opponents was found only under some conditions. A further sample of male prisoners (N=260), completed a similar provocation scenario, with response options covering fear, several forms of aggression, the importance of the provocation for reputation, and that the provocation was unimportant. Fear increased with RHP as predicted. Lower physical aggression to a low RHP opponent was again found, and it was associated with a lesser impact on reputation of an insult from this source. There was also a lower likelihood of responding with physical aggression to a high RHP opponent, as originally predicted. Implications of the findings for motivational theories of aggression are discussed, and also the applicability to humans of concepts from game theory models of the evolution of fighting strategies. Aggr. Behav. 33:563–573, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.