bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Textbook language: Incentive or obstacle
Authors: Sefer Jasmina , Lazarevic Emilija , Stevanovic Jelena
Published: February 2009

The criticism of the current language in school textbooks indicates the gravity of this problem in our environment and the need to solve it. The first step in approaching this problem is studying the reception of primary school textbooks. In the first part of the paper we discuss all primary school textbooks from the fifth to the eighth grade with regard to the frequency of textbook usage and the perception of the difficulty of textbook language. In the second part of the paper there is an additional analysis of history, geography, biology, physics and chemistry textbooks from the fifth to the eighth grade with regard to the reasons for which pupils find them difficult. This preliminary research comprised in total 120 pupils from an urban school, thirty from each fifth to eighth grade. We analyzed the textbooks of the Institute for Textbook Publishing and Teaching Aids, which are used most frequently in our educational practice, and hence can represent the general situation of the problem. Bearing in mind the limited size of the sample of pupils, the results are used only as an illustration and should encourage new studies on a more extensive sample. Textbook language is often difficult since it is mostly insufficiently comprehensible, longwinded and with many data. In natural sciences, physics and chemistry, pupils give up studying from the textbook. The textbooks in narrative subjects lead the way with respect to their usage, among which everybody finds history textbooks most difficult. Geography and biology textbooks were evaluated differently, depending on the grade and success of the pupils declaring themselves. The results present a guideline to the current and new writers of our textbooks, critics and publishing houses.
Evaluation of the agreement among three handheld blood glucose meters and a laboratory blood analyzer for measurement of blood glucose concentration in Hispaniolan Amazon parrots (Amazona ventralis)
Authors: Acierno Mark J. , Mitchell Mark A. , Schuster Patricia J. , Freeman Diana , Sanchez-Migallon Guzman David , Jr Thomas N. Tully
Published: February 2009

Objective—To determine the degree of agreement between 3 commercially available point-of-care blood glucose meters and a laboratory analyzer for measurement of blood glucose concentrations in Hispaniolan Amazon parrots (Amazona ventralis).

Animals—20 healthy adult Hispaniolan Amazon parrots.

Procedures—A 26-gauge needle and 3-mL syringe were used to obtain a blood sample (approx 0.5 mL) from a jugular vein of each parrot. Small volumes of blood (0.6 to 1.5 μL) were used to operate each of the blood glucose meters, and the remainder was placed into lithium heparin microtubes and centrifuged. Plasma was harvested and frozen at −30°C. Within 5 days after collection, plasma samples were thawed and plasma glucose concen-trations were measured by means of the laboratory analyzer. Agreement between pairs of blood glucose meters and between each blood glucose meter and the laboratory analyzer was evaluated by means of the Bland-Altman method, and limits of agreement (LOA) were calculated.

Results—None of the results of the 3 blood glucose meters agreed with results of the laboratory analyzer. Each point-of-care blood glucose meter underestimated the blood glucose concentration, and the degree of negative bias was not consistent (meter A bias, −94.9 mg/dL [LOA, −148.0 to −41.7 mg/dL]; meter B bias, −52 mg/dL [LOA, −107.5 to 3.5 mg/dL]; and meter C bias, −78.9 mg/dL [LOA, −137.2 to −20.6 mg/dL]).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—On the basis of these results, use of handheld blood glucose meters in the diagnosis or treatment of Hispaniolan Amazon parrots and other psittacines cannot be recommended.
Estimation of glomerular filtration rate via 2- and 4-sample plasma clearance of iohexol and creatinine in clinically normal cats
Authors: Heiene Reidun , Reynolds Brice S. , Bexfield Nicholas H. , Larsen Stig , Gerritsen Robert J.
Published: February 2009

Objective—To compare 2 methods for estimation of glomerular filtration rate (GFR), study the effects of age and body size on GFR estimates, and provide a reference range for estimated GFR in clinically normal cats.

Animals—57 cats.

Procedures—In each cat, GFR was estimated via plasma clearance of iohexol and creatinine. Results of a 1-compartmental model (CL1comp) were calibrated to a trapezoidal method estimate (CLtrap) by use of a correction formula applicable to dogs or humans and standardized to body weight; for iohexol clearance, data were also standardized to extracellular fluid volume (ECFV). For all 57 cats, method comparison was performed via agreement analysis. Reference ranges for GFR derived by the different methods were established by use of data from a subset of 51 cats after exclusion of 6 cats that were azotemic, Birman, or both.

Results—In 57 cats, mean CLtrap of creatinine was 0.29 mL/min/kg (13%) higher than CLtrap of iohexol. In 51 nonazotemic cats, mean CLtrap was 2.26 mL/min/kg for iohexol (reference range, 1.02 to 3.50 mL/min/kg) and 2.55 mL/min/kg for creatinine (reference range, 1.27 to 3.83 mL/min/kg). Values of GFR/kg or GFR standardized to liters of ECFV did not decrease with increasing age. A negative linear relationship was detected between body weight and estimated GFR/kg or GFR standardized to liters of ECFV.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Reference ranges for estimated GFR via plasma clearance of iohexol and creatinine should facilitate early detection of impaired renal function in cats, although body weight should be taken into account.
Histologic evaluation of the diversity of epidermal laminae in hooves of horses without clinical signs of laminitis
Authors: Kawasako Kazufumi , Higashi Takafumi , Nakaji Yoshihiro , Komine Misa , Hirayama Kazuko , Matsuda Kazuya , Okamoto Minoru , Hashimoto Hiromitsu , Tagami Masaaki , Tsunoda Nobuo , Taniyama Hiroyuki
Published: February 2009

Objective—To evaluate the histologic diversity of epidermal laminae in hooves from horses without clinical signs of laminitis.

Sample Population—Formalin-fixed samples of stratum internum obtained from the mid region of the dorsal aspect of the hoof wall from the forelimbs of 35Thoroughbred cadavers (including foals [n = 9], yearlings [5], 2 year olds [6], racing horses [5], and mares [10]).

Procedures—Paraffin-embedded laminar tissues were stained with H&E for the evaluation of architectural variety of primary epidermal laminae (PEL) and secondary epidermal laminae (SEL). For detection of cytokeratin (CK) expression in epidermal laminae, immunohisto-chemical staining was performed by use of anti-CK14 and anti-CK8.12 antibodies.

Results—The morphology of the PEL, SEL, and tips of PEL was classified into 3, 5, and 3 patterns, respectively. Differences in the predominant type of SEL depended on their location with respect to the laminar interface. In SEL attached to the sides of PEL, the basal cells were immunoreactive to CK14 and CK8.12, which was interpreted as a normal pattern. In some SEL at the tips of PEL, the suprabasal cells expressed CK14, CK8.12, or both, which constituted a hyperplastic pattern.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The histologic diversity of epidermal laminae from hooves of Thoroughbreds was attributable to the combined morphology of PEL and SEL. Detection of hyperplastic changes in the laminar interface does not justify a diagnosis of laminitis because such changes can develop independent of clinical disease. The classification system used here should aid investigators in making a more accurate histologic evaluation of laminae.
Comparison of caudal epidural anesthesia by use of lidocaine versus a lidocaine–magnesium sulfate combination in cattle
Authors: Dehghani Seifollah N. , Bigham Amin S.
Published: February 2009

Objective—To compare time of onset and duration of analgesia obtained by epidural administration of a lidocaine–magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) combination versus a lidocaine–distilled water combination in cattle.

Animals—5 healthy adult (mean ± SD age, 4.6 ± 0.5 years) Holstein cows (body weight, 480.0 ± 71 kg).

Procedures—Caudal epidural anesthesia was obtained in all cows with 2% lidocaine (0.22 mg/kg) solution and 1 mL of distilled water, and 2 weeks later, anesthesia was repeated with 2% lidocaine (0.22 mg/kg) solution and 1 mL of 10% MgSO4 solution. Time to onset, duration, and cranial spread of analgesia were recorded. Heart rate, respiratory rate, and body temperature were recorded at minute 0 prior to epidural administrations of each treatment (baseline) and at 5, 10, 15, 30, 60, and 75 minutes after epidural administration of each treatment.

Results—Onset of analgesia was significantly different following epidural administration of lidocaine–distilled water (mean ± SD, 2.82 ± 0.33 minutes) versus lidocaine-MgSO4 (4.76 ± 0.59 minutes). Epidural administration of lidocaine-MgSO4 produced analgesia of significantly longer duration (168 ± 2.6 minutes) than that of lidocaine–distilled water (59.8 ± 3.4 minutes). No significant differences were observed in heart rate, respiratory rate, and body temperature, compared with baseline values, for lidocaine–distilled water or lidocaine-MgSO4 treatments.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The combination of lidocaine with MgSO4 produced analgesia of longer duration than lidocaine with distilled water. By use of this combination, long-duration obstetric and surgical procedures could commence relatively soon after epidural injection and could be completed without readministration of anesthetic.
A metagenomic approach for determining prevalence of tetracycline resistance genes in the fecal flora of conventionally raised feedlot steers and feedlot steers raised without antimicrobials
Authors: Harvey Rebekah , Funk Julie , Wittum Thomas E. , Hoet Armando E.
Published: February 2009

Objective—To compare prevalence of tetracycline resistance genes in the fecal flora of conventionally raised feedlot steers and feedlot steers raised without antimicrobials.

Sample Population—61 fecal samples from conventionally raised steers and 61 fecal samples from steers raised without antimicrobials at a single feedlot.

Procedures—Total DNA was extracted from each fecal sample and analyzed by means of 4 multiplex PCR assays for 14 tetracycline resistance genes.

Results—At least 3 tetracycline resistance genes were identified in all 122 fecal samples. For 5 of the 14 tetracycline resistance genes, the percentage of samples in which the gene was detected was significantly higher for fecal samples from conventionally raised cattle than for fecal samples from antimicrobial-free cattle, and for 1 gene, the percent-age of samples in which the gene was detected was significantly higher for fecal samples from antimicrobial-free cattle than for fecal samples from conventionally raised cattle. The percentage of samples with r 11 tetracycline resistance genes was significantly higher for fecal samples from conventionally raised cattle (35/61 [57%]) than for fecal samples from antimicrobial-free cattle (16/61 [26%]).

Conclusions and Relevance—Results suggested that the prevalence of tetracycline resistance genes was significantly higher in the fecal flora of conventionally raised feedlot steers than in the fecal flora of feedlot steers raised without antimicrobials and that a metagenomic approach may be useful in understanding the epidemiology of antimicrobial resistance in food animals.
Measurement of N-terminal proatrial natriuretic peptide in plasma of cats with and without cardiomyopathy
Authors: Zimmering Tanja M. , Meneses Felix , Nolte Ingo J. , Simon Daniela
Published: February 2009

Objective—To determine whether plasma N-terminal proatrial natriuretic peptide (Nt-proANP) concentrations in cats with cardiomyopathy (CM) differ from values in healthy cats and evaluate whether plasma Nt-proANP concentrations can be used to discriminate cats with CM and congestive heart failure (CHF) from CM-affected cats without CHF.

Animals—16 cats that had CM without CHF, 16 cats that had CM with CHF, and 11 healthy control cats.

Procedures—All cats underwent a physical examination, assessment of clinicopathologic variables (including plasma thyroxine concentration), thoracic radiography, and echocardiography. On the basis of findings, cats were assigned to 1 of 3 groups (control cats, cats with CM and CHF, and cats with CM without CHF). Venous blood samples were obtained from all 43 cats, and plasma Nt-proANP concentrations were measured by use of a human proANP(1-98) ELISA.

Results—Plasma Nt-proANP concentrations differed significantly among the 3 groups. Median Nt-proANP concentration was 381 fmol/mL (range, 52 to 450 fmol/mL), 763 fmol/mL (range, 167 to 2,386 fmol/mL), and 2,443 fmol/mL (range, 1,189 to 15,462 fmol/mL) in the control group, in cats with CM without CHF, and in cats with CM and CHF, respectively.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Measurement of plasma Nt-proANP concentration could be of benefit in the assessment of cats with naturally occurring CM and might have potential as a screening marker for the disease. Furthermore, measurement of plasma NtproANP concentration may be useful for distinguishing cats with CM and CHF from those with CM and no CHF.
Use of propafenone for conversion of chronic atrial fibrillation in horses
Authors: De Clercq Dominique , van Loon Gunther , Tavernier Rene , Verbesselt Rene , Deprez Piet
Published: February 2009

Objective—To investigate effects of IV administration of propafenone for naturally occurring and experimentally induced chronic atrial fibrillation in horses.

Animals—2 horses with naturally occurring atrial fibrillation and 4 horses with pacing-induced atrial fibrillation.

Procedures—Horses received a bolus of propafenone (2 mg/kg, IV over 15 minutes). If atrial fibrillation persisted after 20 minutes, a continuous infusion of propafenone (7 μg/kg/min) was given for 120 minutes. Before, during, and after treatment, plasma propafenone concentrations, hematologic and serum biochemical values, and electolyte concentrations analyses were determined and clinical signs were monitored. Surface ECGs were recorded. If propafenone treatment failed, quinidine sulfate was administered.

Results—Bolus and continuous infusion induced minimal adverse effects. During the 15-minute bolus administration, a slight increase in heart rate was observed and horses appeared more sensitive to external stimuli. Throughout treatment, no significant changes were observed in respiratory rate, QRS or corrected QT duration, or results of hematologic analyses. Although a significant increase in F-wave interval and atrial fibrillation cycle length was observed and plasma propafenone concentrations (569 to 1,268 ng/mL) reached the human therapeutic range (64 to 1,044 ng/mL), none of the horses cardioverted to sinus rhythm. Sinus rhythm could be restored in all horses via standard oral administration of quinidine.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—A slow IV bolus of 2 mg of propafenone/kg followed by a continuous infusion of 7 μg/kg/min over 2 hours was not an effective treatment for chronic atrial fibrillation in horses.
Application of an automated surveillancedata–analysis system in a laboratory-based early-warning system for detection of an abortion outbreak in mares
Authors: Odoi Agricola , Carter Craig N. , Riley Jeremy W. , Smith Jackie L. , Dwyer Roberta M.
Published: February 2009

Objective—To develop an early-warning automated surveillance-data–analysis system for early outbreak detection and reporting and to assess its performance on an abortion outbreak in mares in Kentucky.

Sample Population—426 data sets of abortions in mares in Kentucky during December 2000 to July 2001.

Procedures—A custom software system was developed to automatically extract and analyze data from a Laboratory Information Management System database. The software system was tested on data on abortions in mares in Kentucky reported between December 1, 2000, and July 31, 2001. The prospective space-time permutations scan statistic, proposed by Kulldorff, was used to detect and identify abortion outbreak signals.

Results—Results indicated that use of the system would have detected the abortion outbreak approximately 1 week earlier than traditional surveillance systems. However, the geographic scale of analysis was critical for highest sensitivity in outbreak detection. Use of the lower geographic scale of analysis (ie, postal [zip code]) enhanced earlier detection of significant clusters, compared with use of the higher geographic scale (ie, county).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The automated surveillance-data–analysis system would be useful in early detection of endemic, emerging, and foreign animal disease outbreaks and might help in detection of a bioterrorist attack. Manual analyses of such a large number of data sets (ie, 426) with a computationally intensive algorithm would be impractical toward the goal of achieving near real-time surveillance. Use of this early-warning system would facilitate early interventions that should result in more positive health outcomes.
Evaluation of hepatic disease in mice following intradermal inoculation with Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis
Authors: Nieto Nathan C. , Foley Janet E. , MacLachlan N. James , Yuan Tom , Spier Sharon J.
Published: February 2009

Objective—To evaluate clinical, microbiologic, and pathologic outcomes in mice after inoculation with 4 equine-origin Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis strains.

Animals—15 C3H/HeJ mice.

Procedures—In a preliminary study, the optimum route of inoculation was determined. In the main study, mice were allocated to 4 treatment groups (3 mice/group). One slow- or rapid-growing equine-origin C pseudotuberculosis strain was inoculated ID into the mice of each treatment group.

Results—All 4 strains had distinct tropism for the liver. Histologic lesions associated with rapid-growing strains included focally extensive unencapsulated areas of acute, massive coagulative necrosis of hepatocytes with intralesional colonies of bacteria and variable portal hepatitis characterized by accumulations of mononuclear and polymorphonuclear inflammatory cells. In contrast, the livers of mice inoculated with slow-growing strains had multiple discrete, randomly distributed foci of hepatocellular necrosis and neutrophilic hepatitis that were considerably less severe than the lesions in the mice inoculated with the rapid-growing strains. Significantly more bacterial colonies were recovered from the organs of mice inoculated with rapid-growing than with slow-growing strains of bacteria. Bacteria were isolated from the liver, spleen, lungs, and mesenteric lymph nodes of mice inoculated with rapid-growing strains and from the liver and lymph nodes of mice inoculated with slow-growing strains.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Study of host-bacteria interactions in hosts that are naturally infected with C pseudotuberculosis is difficult because of underlying genetic variability among animals, expense, and requirements for multiple replicates and control animals. The C3H/HeJ mice may provide a useful means for studying virulence mechanisms of C pseudotuberculosis.
Evaluation of urodynamic procedures in female cats anesthetized with low and high doses of isoflurane and propofol
Authors: Cohen Todd A. , Westropp Jodi L. , Kass Philip H. , Pypendop Bruno H.
Published: February 2009

Objective—To compare effects of isoflurane and propofol on the cystometrogram and urethral pressure profile (UPP) in healthy female cats.

Animals—6 healthy female cats.

Procedures—Cats were anesthetized, and a consistent plane of anesthesia was maintained with low and high doses of isoflurane and propofol. A 6-F double-lumen urinary catheter was placed aseptically in the urethra for cystometrogram and UPP measurements. Threshold pressure and volume were recorded for cystometrograms. Maximum urethral pressure for smooth and skeletal muscle portions of the urethra, maximum urethral closure pressure, and functional profile length were measured during each UPP measurement. Heart rate and respiratory rate were recorded.

Results—Cats anesthetized with the low dose of propofol had consistent detrusor reflexes, compared with results for the other anesthetics. Mean ± SD threshold pressure, volume per unit of body weight, and compliance were 75.7 ± 16.3 cm H2O, 8.3 ± 3.2 mL/kg, and 0.5 ± 0.4 mL/cm H2O, respectively, for low-dose propofol. Anesthesia with either dose of propofol caused a significantly higher percentage change in heart rate during the cystometrogram, compared with results for anesthesia with isoflurane. Maximal urethral pressure in the area corresponding to skeletal muscle and the maximum urethral closure pressure were significantly higher for the low dose of propofol, compared with results for the high dose of propofol.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The low-dose propofol regimen was the easiest to titrate and maintain and yielded diagnostic-quality detrusor reflexes in all 6 cats. Anesthetic depth should be titrated appropriately when performing urodynamic procedures.
Behavioural and cardiorespiratory effects of a constant rate infusion of medetomidine and morphine for sedation during standing laparoscopy in horses
Authors: SOLANO A. M. , VALVERDE A. , DESROCHERS A. , NYKAMP S. , BOURE L. P.
Published: February 2009

Reasons for performing study: Standing surgical procedures are performed commonly in horses under sedation. This approach minimises the morbidity/mortality risks associated with general anaesthesia. The use of a medetomidine and morphine combination has not been investigated in horses despite the usefulness of each drug individually.

Objective: To determine the efficacy of a medetomidine and morphine combination to produce standing sedation with minimal cardiorespiratory changes and adequate analgesia for exploratory laparascopy in mature horses.

Hypothesis: The combination of medetomidine and morphine will induce reliable sedation with minimal cardiorespiratory changes.

Methods: Medetomidine (5 μg/kg bwt i.v.) followed in 10 min by morphine (50 μg/kg bwt i.v.) and 10 min later by a constant rate infusion (CRI) of medetomidine and morphine (5 and 30 μg/kg bwt/h, respectively) was administered in 7 horses undergoing standing exploratory laparoscopy. Quality of sedation and cardiorespiratory function were assessed.

Results: Sedation was satisfactory after the medetomidine and morphine bolus. The CRI of both drugs enhanced sedation and ataxia. Mean visual analogue scores on a scale of 10 varied between 7.8 and 8.8 and were similar between anaesthesiologists and surgeons. Heart rate, respiratory rate and packed cell volume (PCV) decreased significantly after medetomidine and, at some periods, during the CRI. Blood pressure only increased significantly at 5 min and arterial O2decreased significantly at 10 min post medetomidine. PCV remained significantly lower and total protein decreased post morphine and CRI administration. Arterial CO2increased towards the end of the CRI. Cardiac output did not change significantly over time.

Conclusion and clinical relevance: The combination of medetomidine and morphine results in reliable sedation and stable cardiorespiratory function in horses undergoing exploratory laparascopy.
Oral endoscopy as an aid to diagnosis of equine cheek tooth infections in the absence of gross oral pathological changes: 17 cases
Authors: RAMZAN P. H. L.
Published: February 2009

Reasons for performing study: Removal of cheek teeth in all but the aged horse or pony is a serious undertaking with potentially deleterious sequellae. Rigid endoscopy permits detailed examination of the oral cavity and erupted dental tissues and has the potential to assist in the correct identification of the diseased tooth.

Objectives: To document oral endoscopic findings associated with infected equine cheek teeth in cases without gross oral pathological changes and thereby determine the usefulness of rigid oral endoscopy as an aid to diagnosis of such infections.

Methods: Records of all cases of equine cheek tooth removal attempted under standing sedation over a 38 month period were examined. Cases were excluded from the study if apical infection was associated with gross dental fracture, malalignment, diastema/periodontal pocketing or supernumerary teeth. Endoscopic and radiographic findings were analysed and correlated to diseased tooth location.

Results: Seventeen cases of apical dental infection fitting the inclusion criteria (nonresponsive to antibiotics and with no gross oral abnormality of the affected arcade) were identified in which oral endoscopy was used as an aid to diagnosis. In 15 (88%) of the 17 cases, oral endoscopy revealed abnormalities specific to the infected tooth. Focal gingival recession (10/17 cases) was the most common visible abnormality associated with infected teeth.

Conclusions: In the majority of cases of apical infection of equine cheek teeth there is visible intraoral evidence implicating the affected tooth.

Potential relevance: Oral endoscopy facilitates detailed examination of the mouth and should be considered along with radiography as an important aid to diagnosis in cases of equine dental infection.
Osteoarthritis of the thoracolumbar synovial intervertebral articulations: Clinical and radiographic features in 77 horses with poor performance and back pain
Authors: GIRODROUX M. , DYSON S. , MURRAY R.
Published: February 2009

Reasons for performing study: Back pain is well recognised as a cause of poor performance in horses, but the role of lesions of the thoracolumbar synovial intervertebral articulations (facet joints) has not been well documented.

Objectives: To describe the clinical features, radiographic appearance and location of facet joint lesions and determine if there was any breed, gender, age, bodyweight or work discipline predilection.

Methods: Data from 77 horses examined at the Animal Health Trust January 1997‐September 2007 with evidence of thoracolumbar pain and radiographic changes of the facet joints were reviewed. The presence of either other osseous abnormalities of the thoracolumbar region or other problems potentially contributing to poor performance were recorded. Facet joint lesions were graded radiographically and their location determined. Influence of breed, gender and discipline on the presence of lesions, effect of location on the type of lesion and the influence of impinging dorsal spinous processes on the clinical features were assessed using Chi‐squared tests.

Results: There was no effect of breed, gender, age or bodyweight on occurrence of facet joint lesions. Showjumpers were significantly less affected than horses from other disciplines. There were commonly 2–5 affected facet joints, usually in the caudal thoracic and cranial lumbar spine (T15‐LI). Sclerosis, periarticular new bone and narrowing of the joint space were the most frequent radiographic lesion types. Clinical features were significantly different between horses with and without impinging dorsal spinous processes. Severity of clinical signs was related to the presence of other osseous abnormalities, not the number of facet joints involved or the lesion grade.

Conclusions: Osteoarthritis of the facet joints of the thoracolumbar spine can occur alone, in horses with back pain, or in association with other osseous abnormalities.

Potential clinical relevance: Osteoarthritis of the thoracolumbar facet joints probably contributes to back pain, but further investigation of the prevalence of osteoarthritis in horses without clinical signs of back pain is merited.
Is there a relationship between clinical presentation, diagnostic and radiographic findings and outcome in horses with osteoarthritis of the small tarsal joints?
Authors: BYAM‐COOK K. L. , SINGER E. R.
Published: February 2009

Reasons for performing study: Despite the possibility that sound horses may have radiographic signs consistent with osteoarthritis of the small tarsal joints (OA‐STJ), a diagnosis of ‘bone spavin’ as a cause of lameness is often made based only on radiographic examination.

Objectives: To determine whether severity of radiographic change and response to treatment are correlated with the duration and degree of lameness and the response to intra‐articular anaesthesia in horses with OA‐STJ.

Methods: A retrospective study of all horses that showed a positive response to intra‐articular anaesthesia of the STJ was performed. Details of history, clinical presentation and diagnostic findings were recorded. Radiographs of affected tarsi were evaluated and scored independently by 2 observers. Follow‐up was via a telephone questionnaire with the owner. Statistical analysis was used to assess the association between the duration and degree of lameness, the response to intra‐articular anaesthesia and radiographic findings. Response to treatment was compared with the findings from the diagnostic work‐up.

Results: Ninety‐one horses were included (61 unilateral and 30 bilateral lameness). Fifty‐nine percent of horses had been lame for over 2 months. There was no association between the duration and degree of lameness, or between duration or degree of lameness, intra‐articular anaesthesia and radiographic findings. Response to treatment showed a significant positive association with less severe radiographic changes within the tarsometatarsal (TMT) joint. Follow‐up was available for 48% of cases, with 52% horses returning to the same level of exercise.

Conclusions: There is no association between the duration and degree of lameness, the response to intra‐articular anaesthesia and radiographic findings in horses with OA‐STJ. However, horses that improved following treatment tended to have less marked TMT joint pathology.

Potential relevance: Response to intra‐articular anaesthesia should remain the gold standard for diagnosis of OA‐STJ. Predicting which cases are likely to improve following treatment remains difficult.
Intra‐ and interobserver agreement in the interpretation of navicular bones on radiographs and computed tomography scans
Authors: GROTH A. M. , MAY S. A. , WEAVER M. P. , WELLER R.
Published: February 2009

Reasons for performing study: Criteria for the radiographic evaluation of navicular bones in horses have been published to standardise classification of radiographic signs. However, intra‐ and interobserver agreement have not been established.

Objective: To determine intra‐ and interobserver agreement in the evaluation of radiographic and computed tomographic (CT) navicular changes. It was hypothesised that: 1) intraobserver agreement would be better than interobserver agreement; 2) agreement would be better for CT than for radiography; and 3) pathological changes would be recognised with greater certainty with CT.

Methods: Radiographs and CT scans of 60 cadaver navicular bones were evaluated by 3 observers using published criteria. A subset of 30 studies was evaluated twice by one observer. Agreement was tested using the kappa statistic. Certainty about pathological changes was evaluated by giving the observers the option to choose ‘not sure’.

Results: Agreement varied from poor to almost perfect for radiographic evaluation and from poor to substantial for CT evaluation. For radiographic evaluation mean interobserver agreement was fair, as it was for CT evaluation. For radiographic evaluation mean intraobserver agreement was moderate as it was for CT evaluation. Pathological changes were evaluated with greater certainty on CT scans compared to radiographs; however, this was not associated with improved agreement.

Conclusions: Variations in classification of navicular lesions in radiographic and CT studies were considerable between and within observers and challenge the use of such studies for diagnostic and prognostic purposes.

Potential relevance: The results of this study allowed the identification of evaluation criteria with sufficient precision to be useful for navicular bone evaluation.
Westermarck's altruism: Charity releasers, moral emotions, and the welfare ethic
Authors: Salter Frank
Published: February 2009

The ethologically oriented method of social analysis developed by Edward Westermarck is applied to the subjects of charitable behavior, the welfare ethic, and the link between them. Westermarck dealt with these topics, but not in the depth he accorded the subjects of incest aversion, the incest prohibition, and the connection between them. Westermarck's approach to analyzing incest behavior and regulating institutions is also useful in the case of charitableness and the welfare ethic. Westermarck would have analyzed the welfare ethic as an institution derived from human nature —secundam naturam— in addition to an authoritative discipliner of behavior as proposed by Freud. Evidence is presented that this is the case with the welfare ethic in modern societies. This evidence includes the sensitivity of welfare to ethnic diversity. The latter decreases public altruism, whether expressed as charitableness to beggars, national charities, or public goods. The parochial leaning of charity and the welfare ethic is allowed for by Westermarck's empirically grounded ethics. Despite the passage of nearly a century, Edward Westermarck can still be an instructive guide to the biosociological enterprise. This continuing relevance shows what could have been, and can still be, done with the conceptual tools offered by an evolutionarily informed sociology.
Assessing the Effect of Disturbances on Ectomycorrhiza Diversity
Authors: Iordache Virgil , Gherghel Felicia , Kothe Erika
Published: February 2009

Ectomycorrhiza (ECM) communities can be described on a species level or on a larger scale at an ecosystem level. Here we show that the species level approach of successional processes in ECM communities is not appropriate for understanding the diversity patterns of ECM communities at contaminated sites. An ecosystem based approach improves predictability since different biotic and abiotic factors are included. However, it still does not take into account the hierarchical structure of the ecosystem. We suggest that diversity patterns of ECMs communities in forests can best be investigated at three levels. This hypothetical approach for investigation can be tested at sites of secondary succession in areas contaminated with metals. Once the diversity patterns are appropriately described by a hierarchical ecosystem approach, to the species level is used to explain these patterns by populational and ecotoxicological mechanisms.
Predictors of Childhood Exposure to Parental Secondhand Smoke in the House and Family Car
Authors: Mantziou Vassiliki , Vardavas Constantine I. , Kletsiou Eleni , Priftis Kostas N.
Published: February 2009

Childhood exposure to secondhand smoke (SHS) is a serious threat to public health and can be influenced by parental lifestyle habits and beliefs. Taking the above into account we aimed at locating predictors of parental induced exposure to SHS in the house and family car among 614 children who visited the emergency department of two large pediatric hospitals in Athens, Greece. The multivariate analysis revealed that the factors found to mediate household exposure to paternal SHS were the number of cigarettes smoked per day (O.R 1.13, p
Tobacco Smoke: Involvement of Reactive Oxygen Species and Stable Free Radicals in Mechanisms of Oxidative Damage, Carcinogenesis and Synergistic Effects with Other Respirable Particles
Authors: Valavanidis Athanasios , Vlachogianni Thomais , Fiotakis Konstantinos
Published: February 2009

Tobacco smoke contains many toxic, carcinogenic and mutagenic chemicals, as well as stable and unstable free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the particulate and the gas phase with the potential for biological oxidative damage. Epidemiological evidence established that smoking is one of the most important extrinsic factor of premature morbidity and mortality. The objective of this study was to investigate oxidative and carcinogenic mechanisms of tobacco and synergistic action with other respirable particles in the respiratory system of smokers. Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) and spin- trapping techniques were used to study stable free radicals in the cigarette tar, and unstable superoxide anion (O2·-) and hydroxyl (HO·) radicals in the smoke Results showed that the semiquinone radical system has the potential for redox recycling and oxidative action. Further, results proved that aqueous cigarette tar (ACT) solutions can generate adducts with DNA nucleobases, particularly the mutagenic 8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine (a biomarker for carcinogenesis).Also, we observed synergistic effects in the generation of HO·, through the Fenton reaction, with environmental respirable particles (asbestos fibres, coal dust, etc.) and ambient particulate matter (PM), such as PM10, PM2.5 and diesel exhaust particles (DEP). The highest synergistic effects was observed with the asbestos fibres (freshly grounded), PM2.5 and DEP. Finally, we discuss results from our previous study of conventional cellulose acetate filters and “bio-filters” with hemoglobin impregnated activated carbon, which showed that these filters do not substantially alter the free radical content of smoke in the particulate and in the gaseous phase.
Drosophila melanogaster as a Model Organism of Brain Diseases
Authors: Jeibmann Astrid , Paulus Werner
Published: February 2009

Drosophila melanogaster has been utilized to model human brain diseases. In most of these invertebrate transgenic models, some aspects of human disease are reproduced. Although investigation of rodent models has been of significant impact, invertebrate models offer a wide variety of experimental tools that can potentially address some of the outstanding questions underlying neurological disease. This review considers what has been gleaned from invertebrate models of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, metabolic diseases such as Leigh disease, Niemann-Pick disease and ceroid lipofuscinoses, tumor syndromes such as neurofibromatosis and tuberous sclerosis, epilepsy as well as CNS injury. It is to be expected that genetic tools in Drosophila will reveal new pathways and interactions, which hopefully will result in molecular based therapy approaches.
Bayesian Algorithm Implementation in a Real Time Exposure Assessment Model on Benzene with Calculation of Associated Cancer Risks
Authors: Sarigiannis Dimosthenis A. , Karakitsios Spyros P. , Gotti Alberto , Papaloukas Costas L. , Kassomenos Pavlos A. , Pilidis Georgios A.
Published: February 2009

The objective of the current study was the development of a reliable modeling platform to calculate in real time the personal exposure and the associated health risk for filling station employees evaluating current environmental parameters (traffic, meteorological and amount of fuel traded) determined by the appropriate sensor network. A set of Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) was developed to predict benzene exposure pattern for the filling station employees. Furthermore, a Physiology Based Pharmaco-Kinetic (PBPK) risk assessment model was developed in order to calculate the lifetime probability distribution of leukemia to the employees, fed by data obtained by the ANN model. Bayesian algorithm was involved in crucial points of both model sub compartments. The application was evaluated in two filling stations (one urban and one rural). Among several algorithms available for the development of the ANN exposure model, Bayesian regularization provided the best results and seemed to be a promising technique for prediction of the exposure pattern of that occupational population group. On assessing the estimated leukemia risk under the scope of providing a distribution curve based on the exposure levels and the different susceptibility of the population, the Bayesian algorithm was a prerequisite of the Monte Carlo approach, which is integrated in the PBPK-based risk model. In conclusion, the modeling system described herein is capable of exploiting the information collected by the environmental sensors in order to estimate in real time the personal exposure and the resulting health risk for employees of gasoline filling stations.
A Framework for the Organization and Delivery of Systemic Treatment
Authors: Vandenberg T. , Coakley N. , Nayler J. , DeGrasse C. , Green E. , Mackay J.A. , McLennan C. , Smith A. , Wilcock L. , Trudeau M.E.
Published: February 2009

Background: Increasing systemic treatment and shortages of oncology professionals in Canada require innovative approaches to the safe and effective delivery of intravenous (IV) cancer treatment. We conducted a systematic review of the clinical and scientific literature, and an environmental scan of models in Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. We then developed a framework for the organization and delivery of IV systemic treatment. Methods: The systematic review covered the MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, and HealthStar databases. The environmental scan retrieved published and unpublished sources, coupled with a free key word search using the Google search engine. The Systemic Treatment Working Group reviewed the evidence and developed a draft framework using evidence-based analysis, existing recommendations from various jurisdictions, and expert opinion based on experience and consensus. The draft was assessed by Ontario stakeholders and reviewed and approved by Cancer Care Ontario. Results: The poor quantity and quality of the evidence necessitated a consensus-derived model. That model comprises four levels of care determined by a regional systemic treatment program and three integrated structures (integrated cancer programs, affiliate institutions, and satellite institutions), each with a defined scope of practice and a specific organizational framework. Interpretation: New models of care are urgently required beyond large centres, particularly in geographically remote or rural areas. Despite limited applicable evidence, the development and successful implementation of this framework is intended to create sustainable, accessible, quality care and to measurably improve patient outcomes.
Genomancy: Predicting Tumour Response to Cancer Therapy based on the Oracle Of Genetics
Authors: Williams P. D. , Lee J. K. , Theodorescu Dan
Published: February 2009

Cells are complex systems that regulate a multitude of biologic pathways involving a diverse array of molecules. [...]
The Role of the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors as Therapy for Advanced, Metastatic, and Recurrent Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer: A Canadian National Consensus Statement
Authors: Ellis Peter M. , Morzycki W. , Melosky B. , Butts C. , Hirsh V. , Krasnoshtein F. , Murray N. , Shepherd F. A. , Soulieres D. , Tsao M. S. , Goss G.
Published: February 2009

Purpose: To provide consensus recommendations on the use of epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIS) in patients with advanced or meta-static non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Methods: Using a systematic literature search, phase II trials, randomized phase III trials, and meta-analyses were identified for inclusion. Results: A total of forty-six trials were included. Clear evidence is available that EGFR-TKIS should not be administered concurrently with platinum-based chemotherapy as first-line therapy in advanced or metastatic NSCLC . Evidence is currently insufficient to recommend single-agent EGFR-TKIS as first-line therapy either in unselected populations or in populations selected on the basis of molecular or clinical characteristics. Following failure of platinum-based chemotherapy, the evidence suggests that second-line EGFR-TKIS or second-line chemotherapy result in similar survival. Quality of life and symptom improvement for patients treated with an EGFR-TKI appear better than they do for patients treated with second-line docetaxel. Sequence of therapy may not appear to be important, but if survival is the outcome of interest, the goal should be to optimize the number of patients receiving three lines of therapy. Based on available data, molecular markers and clinical characteristics do not appear to be predictive of a differential survival benefit from an EGFR-TKI and therefore those factors should not be used to select patients for EGFR-TKI therapy. Conclusions: The EGFR-TKIS represent an additional therapy in the treatment of advanced or metastatic NSCLC. The results of ongoing clinical trials may define the optimal role for these agents and the effectiveness of combinations of these agents with other targeted agents.
Designing Collaborative Learning Environments Using Educational Scenarios Based on SR
Authors: Paraskeva Fotini , Mysirlaki Sofia , Choustoulakis E.
Published: February 2009

As more and more studies acknowledge that students are basic contributors to the learning process, factors such as self concept, (computer) self-efficacy and self-regulation are important in enhancing human performance. Nevertheless, these learner characteristics have received little attention in the e-learning environment. This paper presents the results of a study indicating significant positive relationships between learner characteristics, such as self-concept (academic achievement and job achievement), Computer Self Efficacy (CSE) and Self-Regulation (SR) constructs. Acknowledging the requirement for a strong shift of students towards developing self-regulated scenarios and strategies, we suggest that collaborative e-learning environments should be designed according to the self-regulated theory and self-beliefs. As a result, in this study we present a model examining how we can design educational scenarios based on self-regulation theory in a collaborative e-learning environment. This model is a tool for conducting experiments in e-learning university courses, studying the design, development and evaluation of the collaborative learning process.
Applying Business Process Oriented Learning in Industry: The PROLIX Solution Approach Based on a Case Study
Authors: Pappa Dimitra , Faltin Nils , Zimmermann Volker
Published: February 2009

With human capital being critical to corporate success, aligning individual training with business priorities, emerges as a key challenge. Business process oriented learning unites corporate training and business process management. This entails integrating learning into daily working tasks and putting in place mechanisms for the effective management of business processes, organisational roles, competencies and learning processes, to reduce the time to fill competency gaps and to build proficiency according to evolving business needs. In this paper we outline the main characteristics of the PROLIX approach for business-driven training and provide a practical example of how this concept can help a typical vehicle manufacturer effectively resolve competency related business problems stemming from changes in supply chain management.
Juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia with t(7;11)(p15;p15) and NUP98‐HOXA11 fusion
Authors: Mizoguchi Yoko , Fujita Naoto , Taki Tomohiko , Hayashi Yasuhide , Hamamoto Kazuko
Published: February 2009

The t(7;11)(p15;p15) translocation has been reported as a rare and recurrent chromosomal abnormality in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients. The NUP98‐HOXA9 fusion gene with t(7;11)(p15;p15) was identified and revealed to be essential for leukemogenesis and myeloproliferative disease. To date, t(7;11)(p15;p15) with NUP98‐HOXA11 fusion has been reported only in one case of ph‐negative chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Here, we report a case of a 3‐year‐old girl with juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) carrying t(7;11)(p15;p15) abnormality with NUP98‐HOXA11 fusion. AML chemotherapy followed by bone marrow transplantation (BMT) was found to be effective in treating this disorder, and she remains in complete remission for 3 years after BMT. We suggest the possibility that AML chemotherapy might be effective for treating JMML with t(7;11)(p15;p15) abnormality and NUP98‐HOXA11 fusion. Am. J. Hematol. 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.