bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
INCREASING CUSTOMER SERVICE BEHAVIORS USING MANAGER‐DELIVERED TASK CLARIFICATION AND SOCIAL PRAISE
Authors: Rice Anna , Austin John , Gravina Nicole
Published: March 2010

This project assessed an intervention to improve employee customer service behaviors (correct greetings and closing behaviors). A combination of task clarification and manager‐delivered social praise resulted in increased correct greeting from 11.5% to 66% and correct closing from 8% to 70%. The effect was maintained at a 48‐week follow‐up for employees who were present during the initial study period, but not for more recently hired employees. The results suggest that task clarification combined with manager‐delivered social praise is an effective way to improve employee customer service behaviors.
ANALYSIS OF SOCIAL VARIABLES WHEN AN INITIAL FUNCTIONAL ANALYSIS INDICATES AUTOMATIC REINFORCEMENT AS THE MAINTAINING VARIABLE FOR SELF‐INJURIOUS BEHAVIOR
Authors: Kuhn Stephanie A. Contrucci , Triggs Mandy
Published: March 2010

Self‐injurious behavior (SIB) that occurs at high rates across all conditions of a functional analysis can suggest automatic or multiple functions. In the current study, we conducted a functional analysis for 1 individual with SIB. Results indicated that SIB was, at least in part, maintained by automatic reinforcement. Further analyses using protective equipment (i.e., a helmet with face shield) revealed an attention function for the SIB.
EMERGENCE OF TACTS FOLLOWING MAND TRAINING IN YOUNG CHILDREN WITH AUTISM
Authors: Egan Claire E. , Barnes‐Holmes Dermot
Published: March 2010

This study sought to examine the effects of training mands on the emergence of tacts with the same response forms. Results indicated that training adjective sets as mands resulted in the emergence of adjective sets as tacts under modified, but not standard, antecedent conditions. The findings suggested that the apparent functional independence of mands and tacts may be explained by a lack of appropriate antecedent control over responding.
A PROCEDURE FOR IDENTIFYING PRECURSORS TO PROBLEM BEHAVIOR
Authors: Herscovitch Brandon , Roscoe Eileen M. , Libby Myrna E. , Bourret Jason C. , Ahearn William H.
Published: March 2010

We describe a procedure for differentiating among potential precursor responses for use in a functional analysis. Conditional probability analysis of descriptive assessment data identified three potential precursors. Results from the indirect assessment corresponded with those obtained from the descriptive assessment. The top‐ranked response identified as a precursor according to the indirect assessment had the strongest relation according to the probability analysis. When contingencies were arranged for the precursor in a functional analysis, the same function was identified as for target behavior, supporting the utility of indirect and descriptive methods to identify precursor behavior empirically.
ESTABLISHING DERIVED TEXTUAL CONTROL IN ACTIVITY SCHEDULES WITH CHILDREN WITH AUTISM
Authors: Miguel Caio F. , Yang Heejean G. , Finn Heather E. , Ahearn William H.
Published: March 2010

Activity schedules are often used to facilitate task engagement and transition for children with autism. This study evaluated whether conditional discrimination training would serve to transfer the control from activity‐schedule pictures to printed words (i.e., derived textual control). Two preschoolers with autism were taught to select pictures and printed words given their dictated names. Following training, participants could respond to printed words by completing the depicted task, match printed words to pictures, and read printed words without explicit training (i.e., emergent relations).
ON THE CORRESPONDENCE BETWEEN PREFERENCE ASSESSMENT OUTCOMES AND PROGRESSIVE‐RATIO SCHEDULE ASSESSMENTS OF STIMULUS VALUE
Authors: DeLeon Iser G. , Frank Michelle A. , Gregory Meagan K. , Allman Melissa J.
Published: March 2010

The current study examined whether stimuli of different preference levels would be associated with different amounts of work maintained by the stimuli, as determined through progressive‐ratio schedule break points. Using a paired‐choice preference assessment, stimuli were classified as high, moderate, or low preference for 4 individuals with developmental disabilities. The stimuli were then tested three times each using a progressive‐ratio schedule (step size of 1; the break‐point criterion was 1 min). In 10 of 12 possible comparisons, higher preference stimuli produced larger break points than did lower preference stimuli.
Comparative Evaluation of Topical and Electronic Anesthesia During Scaling and Root Planing
Authors: Pandit Nymphea , Gupta Rajan , Chandoke Urvashi , Gugnani Shalini
Published: March 2010

Background: Scaling and root planing (SRP) in periodontitis is considered to be painful and thus requires anesthesia. The present study evaluates the effectiveness of a eutectic mixture of 25 mg/g lignocaine plus 25 mg/g prilocaine and thermosetting agents (EMLA), 20% lignocaine patch, and electronic dental anesthesia (EDA) during SRP.

Methods: In a single‐center, randomized, controlled study, 25 subjects with probing depth of 5 mm or more and visual analog scale (VAS) score of ≥30 mm on probing were selected and asked to assess the pain by VAS and verbal rating scale (VRS) during SRP after application of the three agents.

Results: The difference between VAS values of patch and EDA (P = 0.012) and EMLA and EDA (P = 0.018) is significant, whereas that between patch and EMLA is non‐significant (P = 1.000). The difference between VRS values of patch and EDA (P = 0.046) is significant, whereas that between patch and EMLA (P = 0.655) and EMLA and EDA (P = 0.180) is non‐significant. According to the VRS scores, 12% of the subjects in the patch group reported no pain, 84% mild pain, and 4% moderate pain. In the EMLA group, 16% reported no pain, 76% mild pain, and 8% moderate pain. In the EDA group, 88% reported mild pain and 12% moderate pain. None reported severe pain. One subject in the patch group had an adverse event of slight redness.

Conclusions: The data suggest the topical agents used, 5% EMLA and 20% lignocaine patch, are more effective and comparable. Both are superior in performance to EDA.
Immediate Placement of Implants Into Infected Sites: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Waasdorp Jonathan A. , Evian Cyril I. , Mandracchia Martine
Published: March 2010

Background: Immediate implant placement of dental implants into fresh extraction sockets was shown to be a predictable and successful procedure when proper protocols were followed. Placement into infected sites has been considered a relative contraindication. However, data from animal research, human case reports and case series, and prospective studies showed similar success rates for implants placed into infected sites compared to implants placed in non‐infected or pristine sites. The focus questions addressed in this review are: Does the presence of infection compromise the osseointegration of immediate placement of implants? Does the presence of infection compromise immediately placed implant success? What protocols have been used to address the infection prior to immediate implant placement?

Methods: A systematic search of MEDLINE/PubMed articles published from 1982 up to and including November 2009 was independently performed by two investigators (JAW and CIE). The search strategy used combinations of the following terms: dental implants, immediate, immediately, extraction, infection, infected, and pathology. The search included data from animal and human studies. The selection criteria excluded animal studies that did not include a pristine control group and human case reports and case series with <1 year of follow‐up. All prospective human studies were included. Studies were limited to those published in the English language, and review article data were excluded.

Results: The search strategy initially yielded 417 references. After screening the abstracts for those related to the focus questions, 12 publications qualified for inclusion. The majority of studies examined sites with chronic periapical infection; however, the classification of infection was often vague and not categorized to be related to the outcome. The data from animal studies demonstrated high levels of implant survival, although conflicting data showed that the bone‐to‐implant contact may be impaired. Human studies showed high levels of implant survival consistent with therapy in non‐infected sites, but evidence was limited to a small number of studies and patients. Thorough debridement and the use of systemic antibiotics were employed in all studies.

Conclusions: Evidence suggests implants can be placed into sites with periapical and periodontal infections. The sites must be thoroughly debrided prior to placement. Guided bone regeneration is usually performed to fill the bone–implant gap and/or socket deficiencies. Although controversial, systemic antibiotics should be used until further controlled trials prove otherwise.
Thoracolumbar Burst Fractures Treated with Posterior Decompression and Pedicle Screw Instrumentation Supplemented with Balloon-Assisted Vertebroplasty and Calcium Phosphate Reconstruction
Authors: Marco Rex A.W. , Meyer B. Christoph , Kushwaha Vivek P.
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND:

The treatment of unstable thoracolumbar burst fractures with short-segment posterior spinal instrumentation without anterior column reconstruction is associated with a high rate of screw breakage and progressive loss of reduction. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the functional, neurologic, and radiographic results following transpedicular, balloon-assisted fracture reduction with anterior column reconstruction with use of calcium phosphate bone cement combined with short-segment posterior instrumentation and a laminectomy.

METHODS:

A consecutive series of thirty-eight patients with an unstable thoracolumbar burst fracture with or without neurologic deficit were managed with transpedicular, balloon-assisted fracture reduction, calcium phosphate bone cement reconstruction, and short-segment spinal instrumentation from 2002 to 2005. Twenty-eight of the thirty-eight patients were followed for a minimum of two years. Demographic data, neurologic function, segmental kyphosis, the fracture severity score, canal compromise, the Short Form-36 score, the Oswestry Disability Index score, and treatment-related complications were evaluated prospectively.

RESULTS:

All thirteen patients with incomplete neurologic deficits had improvement by at least one Frankel grade. The mean kyphotic angulation improved from 17° preoperatively to 7° at the time of the latest follow-up, and the loss of vertebral body height improved from a mean of 42% preoperatively to 14% at the time of the latest follow-up. Screw breakage occurred in two patients, and pseudarthrosis occurred in one patient.

CONCLUSIONS:

The present study demonstrates that excellent reduction of unstable thoracolumbar burst fractures with and without associated neurologic deficits can be maintained with use of short-segment instrumentation and a transpedicular balloon-assisted reduction combined with anterior column reconstruction with calcium phosphate bone cement performed through a single posterior incision. The resultant circumferential stabilization combined with a decompressive laminectomy led to maintained or improved neurologic function in all patients with neurologic deficits, with a low rate of instrumentation failure and loss of correction.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions to Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

ORIGINAL ABSTRACT CITATION:

“Thoracolumbar Burst Fractures Treated with Posterior Decompression and Pedicle Screw Instrumentation Supplemented with Balloon-Assisted Vertebroplasty and Calcium Phosphate Reconstruction” (2009;91:20-8).
Subtalar Fusion After Displaced Intra-Articular Calcaneal Fractures: Does Initial Operative Treatment Matter?
Authors: Radnay Craig S. , Clare Michael P. , Sanders Roy W.
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND:

Many patients with displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures require subtalar arthrodesis for the treatment of posttraumatic arthritis. We hypothesized that patients who underwent initial operative treatment would have better functional outcomes as compared with those who underwent initial nonoperative treatment before undergoing a subtalar arthrodesis.

METHODS:

A consecutive series of sixty-nine patients with seventy-five displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures underwent subtalar arthrodesis for the treatment of painful posttraumatic subtalar arthritis. Group A comprised thirty-four patients (thirty-six fractures) who initially were managed with open reduction and internal fixation and subsequently underwent in situ subtalar fusion at an average of 22.6 months later. Group B comprised thirty-five patients (thirty-nine fractures) who initially were managed nonoperatively and had development of a symptomatic painful malunion and subsequently underwent a subtalar distraction arthrodesis. The two groups were similar with respect to age, sex, injury mechanism, and smoking status. All complications were noted and functional outcomes were assessed at a minimum of forty-eight months after fusion.

RESULTS:

All sixty-nine patients were available for follow-up. The average duration of follow-up was 62.5 months for Group A and 63.5 months for Group B. There were three nonunions of the subtalar fusion requiring revision in each group. Group A had fewer postoperative wound complications and had significantly higher Maryland Foot Scores (90.8 compared with 79.1; p < 0.0001) and American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle-hindfoot scores (87.1 compared with 73.8; p < 0.0001) than did Group B.1

CONCLUSIONS:

In our study population, better functional outcomes and fewer wound complications were associated with subtalar fusion for the treatment of symptomatic posttraumatic subtalar arthritis after initial open reduction and internal fixation of a displaced intra-articular calcaneal fracture as compared with subtalar arthrodesis for the treatment of symptomatic posttraumatic subtalar arthritis secondary to calcaneal malunion following initial nonoperative treatment. Initial open reduction and internal fixation restores calcaneal shape, alignment, and height, which facilitates the fusion procedure and establishes an opportunity to create a better long-term functional result. We recommend open reduction and internal fixation for the treatment of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures when appropriately indicated.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions to Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

ORIGINAL ABSTRACT CITATION:

“Subtalar Fusion After Displaced Intra-Articular Calcaneal Fractures: Does Initial Operative Treatment Matter?” (2009;91:541-6).
Midtarsal Arthrodesis in the Treatment of Charcot Midfoot Arthropathy
Authors: Sammarco V. James , Sammarco G. James , Walker Earl W. , Guiao Ronald P.
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND:

Fracture-dislocation of the midfoot with collapse of the longitudinal arch is common in patients with neuropathic arthropathy of the foot. In this study, we describe a technique of midfoot arthrodesis with use of intramedullary axial screw fixation and review the results and complications following use of this technique.

METHODS:

A retrospective study of twenty-two patients who had undergone surgical reconstruction and arthrodesis to treat Charcot midfoot deformity was performed. Bone resection and/or osteotomy were required to reduce deformity. Axially placed intramedullary screws, inserted either antegrade or retrograde across the arthrodesis sites, were used to restore the longitudinal arch. Radiographic measurements were recorded preoperatively, immediately postoperatively, and at the time of the last follow-up and were analyzed in order to assess the amount and maintenance of correction.

RESULTS:

Patients were evaluated clinically and radiographically at an average of fifty-two months. Complete osseous union was achieved in sixteen of the twenty-two patients, at an average of 5.8 months. There were five partial unions in which a single joint did not unite in an otherwise stable foot. There was one nonunion, with recurrence of deformity. All patients returned to an independent functional ambulatory status within 9.5 months. Weight-bearing radiographs showed the talar-first metatarsal angle, the talar declination angle, and the calcaneal-fifth metatarsal angle to have improved significantly and to have been corrected to nearly normal values by the surgery. All measurements remained significantly improved, as compared with the preoperative values, at the time of final follow-up. There were no recurrent dislocations. Three patients had a recurrent plantar ulcer at the metatarsophalangeal joint that required additional surgery. There were eight cases of hardware failure.

CONCLUSIONS:

Open reduction and arthrodesis with use of multiple axially placed intramedullary screws for the surgical correction of neuropathic midfoot collapse provides a reliable stable construct to achieve and maintain correction of the deformity.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions to Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

ORIGINAL ABSTRACT CITATION:

“Midtarsal Arthrodesis in the Treatment of Charcot Midfoot Arthropathy” (2009;91:80-91).
Water quality of lowland, permeable Chalk rivers: the Frome and Piddle catchments, west Dorset, UK
Authors: Howden N. J. K. , Neal C. , Wheater H. S. , Kirk S.
Published: March 2010

This paper provides a baseline interpretation of extensive hydrochemical characteristics of UK Chalk catchments based on the Frome/Piddle (west Dorset), a major component of the LOCAR (Lowland Catchment Research) programme. It examines a wide range of chemical determinands using data from two long-term (1979–2000) river water monitoring sites. The water quality of the Frome and Piddle is very similar to that of agricultural catchments associated with Chalk aquifers. Waters are of a calcium bicarbonate type and nutrient bearing. In general, there are poor correlations between major ion determinands and between chemical concentrations and flow due to the large groundwater storage which buffers chemical variability. Hence, there are no major chemical gradients within the aquifer to provide distinct water end-member chemistries for contrasting hydrochemical environments to allow chemical hydrograph separation on the basis of flow. NO3-N and soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP) are the dominant species of dissolved N and P, respectively. NO3-N sources both within the aquifer and within the soils contribute to relatively high concentrations, with average values close to those of other agriculturally impacted catchments. SRP concentrations are generally lower than for high agriculturally, urban and industrially impacted catchments. High correlations between Al, Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn occur due to the association of these trace metals with the soil-forming oxide and hydroxide ions present in suspended solids. Biological process influence SiO2, pH and EpCO2 levels. Average levels of EpCO2 at 4.15 and 5.52 times atmospheric pressure in the Frome and Piddle, respectively, indicates that the river waters have not fully degassed to equilibrium with the atmosphere, suggesting a short residence time of spring waters in the river channel.
Psychosedation With Dexmedetomidine Hydrochloride During Minor Oral Surgery
Authors: Taniyama Kiichi , Oda Hideki , Okawa Kazuko , Himeno Katsuhito , Shikanai Koki , Shibutani Tohru
Published: March 2010

We performed intravenous sedation with dexmedetomidine hydrochloride during minor oral surgery and compared this agent with propofol. Patients were randomly divided into 2 groups: dexmedetomidine hydrochloride (D) and propofol (P) groups. In Group D, systolic blood pressure (SBP) increased immediately after the start of initial loading, although no significant differences were noted. Both SBP and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) gradually decreased during maintenance administration and were significantly lower than pretreatment values. The heart rate decreased immediately after the start of administration and was significantly lower during both initial loading and maintenance administration; the heart rate was also significantly lower than that in Group P. In Group D, arterial blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) significantly decreased after the sedation level reached an optimum level until the end of administration. The bispectral index (BIS) value gradually decreased during initial loading. At the optimal sedation level, it decreased to 80 to 85. During maintenance administration, marked changes were observed in this parameter. No marked differences in amnestic effects and comfort were noted between the 2 groups. If the sedation level can be evaluated accurately via another objective method, intravenous sedation with dexmedetomidine hydrochloride may be useful in dental treatment.
Comparative Efficacy of 2 Topical Anesthetics for the Placement of Orthodontic Temporary Anchorage Devices
Authors: Reznik Derek S. , Jeske Arthur H. , Chen Jung-Wei , English Jeryl
Published: March 2010

This study compared the effectiveness of topical benzocaine 20% versus a combination of lidocaine, tetracaine, and phenylephrine in providing sufficient analgesia for the placement of orthodontic temporary anchorage devices (TADs). The 2 topical anesthetics were tested against each other bilaterally using a randomized, double-blind, crossover design. The agents were left in place for the amount of time prescribed by the manufacturer. The TAD was then placed, and each subject rated the degree of pain on a Heft-Parker visual analogue scale. A pulse oximeter was used to record the preoperative and postoperative pulse rates. Statistically significant differences in perceived pain (P < .05) and success rate (P < .01) between drugs were seen, but no significant difference in pulse rate change between the topical anesthetics was observed (P > .05). It was concluded that when the efficacy of topical benzocaine and of a combination product was compared as the sole anesthetic to facilitate acceptable pain control for placement of orthodontic temporary anchorage devices, the combination product was considerably more efficacious.
Preoperative Medical Evaluation: Part 1: General Principles and Cardiovascular Considerations
Authors: Becker Daniel E.
Published: March 2010

A thorough assessment of a patient's medical status is standard practice when dental care is provided. Although this is true for procedures performed under local anesthesia alone, the information gathered may be viewed somewhat differently if the dentist is planning to use sedation or general anesthesia as an adjunct to dental treatment. This article is the first of a 2-part sequence and will address general principles and cardiovascular considerations. A second article will address pulmonary, metabolic, and miscellaneous disorders.
Modeling of the spread of infection in the interdigital spaces of the manus in limbs from clinically normal dogs
Authors: Ober Christopher P. , Jones Jeryl C. , Larson Martha M. , Lanz Otto I. , Werre Stephen R.
Published: March 2010

Objective—To determine whether the pattern of extension of modeled infection from the interdigital web spaces in dogs is predictable and whether the distribution differs among initial injury sites.

Sample Population—Thawed frozen forelimbs from 23 cadavers of previously healthy adult medium- to large-breed dogs.

Procedures—The manus of each forelimb was evaluated by use of computed tomography (CT) before and after injection of radiopaque blue-staining contrast medium into the interdigital web spaces. Two veterinary radiologists reviewed the CT images and recorded the extent of contrast medium from each site. Each manus was dissected or sectioned transversely after imaging, and the extent of contrast medium accumulation was recorded and compared with locations of CT contrast enhancement. The Fisher exact test was performed to determine whether the pattern of contrast medium extension differed by injection site.

Results—Injections made in the interdigital web spaces of the canine manus led to unique and predictable patterns of extension into the surrounding soft tissues. That pattern of extension primarily involved the soft tissues of the digits.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In humans, knowledge of common extension patterns from infected soft tissue spaces is used to predict the spread of disease within the hand and develop surgical plans that will minimize patient illness. Identification of the common sites of disease spread from the interdigital web spaces in dogs may help improve surgical planning and treatment for infection in the manus.
Effects of exercise training on adiposity, insulin sensitivity, and plasma hormone and lipid concentrations in overweight or obese, insulin-resistant horses
Authors: Carter Rebecca A. , McCutcheon L. Jill , Valle Emanuela , Meilahn Elaine N. , Geor Raymond J.
Published: March 2010

Objective—To determine effects of exercise training without dietary restriction on adiposity, basal hormone and lipid concentrations and glucose and insulin dynamics in overweight or obese, insulin-resistant horses.

Animals—12 overweight or obese (body condition score ≥ 7), insulin-resistant (insulin sensitivity ≤ 1.2 × 10−4 L/min/mU) geldings.

Procedures—4 horses remained sedentary, and 8 horses were exercised for 4 weeks at low intensity and 4 weeks at higher intensity, followed by 2 weeks of detraining. Prior to and after each training period, frequently sampled IV glucose tolerance tests with minimal model analysis were performed and baseline plasma insulin, glucose, triglycerides, non-esterified fatty acids, and leptin concentrations were analyzed. Adiposity was assessed by use of morphometrics, ultrasonic subcutaneous fat thickness, and estimation of fat mass from total body water (deuterium dilution method).

Results—Body weight and fat mass decreased by 4% (mean ± SD, 20 ± 8 kg) and 34% (32 ± 9 kg), respectively, compared with pre-exercise values, with similar losses during low- and higher-intensity training. There was no effect of exercise training on subcutaneous fat thickness, plasma hormone and lipid concentrations, or minimal model parameters of glucose and insulin dynamics.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that moderate exercise training without concurrent dietary restriction does not mitigate insulin resistance in overweight or obese horses. A more pronounced reduction in adiposity or higher volume or intensity of exercise may be necessary for improvement in insulin sensitivity in such horses.
Effect of dietary fats with odd or even numbers of carbon atoms on metabolic response and muscle damage with exercise in Quarter Horse–type horses with type 1 polysaccharide storage myopathy
Authors: Borgia Lisa A. , Valberg Stephanie J. , McCue Molly E. , Pagan Joe D. , Roe Charles R.
Published: March 2010

Objective—To evaluate effects of fats with odd and even numbers of carbon atoms on muscle metabolism in exercising horses with polysaccharide storage myopathy (PSSM).

Animals—8 horses with PSSM (6 females and 2 males; mean ± SD age, 6.3 ± 3.9 years).

Procedures—Isocaloric diets (grain, triheptanoin, corn oil, and high-fat, low-starch [HFLS] feed) were fed for 3 weeks each; horses performed daily treadmill exercise. Grain was fed to establish an exercise target, and HFLS feed was fed as a negative control diet. Daily plasma samples were obtained. For each diet, a 15-minute exercise test was performed, and gluteus medius muscle specimens and blood samples were obtained before and after exercise.

Results—Feeding triheptanoin, compared with the corn oil diet, resulted in exercise intolerance; higher plasma creatine kinase (CK) activity and concentrations of C3:0- and C7:0-acylcarnitine and insulin; and lower concentrations of nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA) and C16:0-, C18:1-, and C18:2-acylcarnitine, without changes in concentrations of plasma glucose or resting muscle substrates and metabolites. Feeding grain induced higher CK activity and insulin concentrations and lower NEFA concentrations than did corn oil or HFLS feed. Feeding grain induced higher glucose concentrations than did triheptanoin and corn oil. In muscle, feeding grain resulted in lower glucose-6-phosphate, higher citrate, and higher postexercise lactate concentrations than did the other diets.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Triheptanoin had detrimental effects, reflecting decreased availability of NEFA, increased insulin stimulation of glycogen synthesis, and potential inhibition of lipid oxidation. Long-chain fats are the best dietetic for PSSM.
Effects of intravenous administration of lipopolysaccharide on cytochrome P450 isoforms and hepatic drug metabolizing enzymes in swine
Authors: Myers Michael J. , Farrell Dorothy E. , Howard Karyn D. , Kawalek Joseph C.
Published: March 2010

Objective—To investigate effects of bacteria-mediated inflammation on hepatic drug metabolizing enzymes (DMEs) in swine via a lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge technique.

Animals—22 Poland China–Landrace crossbred barrows.

Procedures—In experiment 1, 10 market-weight swine were treated with LPS (20 μg/kg, IV [n = 5 swine]) or sham-injected (5) 24 hours before slaughter. In experiment 2, 12 growing and finishing swine were treated with LPS at 2 or 20 μg/kg, IV (n = 3 swine/age group/treatment) 24 hours before slaughter. Hepatic DMEs, cytochrome P450 (CYP) isoforms, and CYP-mediated reactions were measured.

Results—In experiment 1, LPS administered at 20 μg/kg decreased most hepatic DME components and inhibited enzymatic activities. In experiment 2, both doses reduced protein content in subcellular fractions and inhibited some DME- and CYP-mediated activities. In growing and finishing swine, CYP2A and CYP2B isoforms were not detected after treatment with LPS; the CYP1A2 isoform was eliminated in growing but not in finishing swine. Lipopolysaccharide also reduced CYP2D6 content in growing and finishing swine but increased CYP2E content. Lipopolysaccharide had no effect on swine CYP2C11, CYP2C13, or CYP3A content. The CYP2B-mediated 7-pentoxyresorufin O-dealkylase activity in growing and finishing swine was totally eliminated, and 7-ethoxyresorufin (indicating CYP1A activity) and aniline (mediated by CYP2E) metabolism was decreased.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Effect of LPS treatment on swine CYPs appeared to be isoform specific; age-related metabolic status of the swine and the LPS dose modified this effect. Lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation may affect metabolism of drugs and xenobiotics in swine.
Serial evaluation of physiologic, pathological, and behavioral changes related to disease progression of experimentally induced Mannheimia haemolytica pneumonia in postweaned calves
Authors: Hanzlicek Gregg A. , White Brad J. , Mosier Derek , Renter David G. , Anderson David E.
Published: March 2010

Objective—To determine the usefulness of physiologic, behavioral, and pathological changes as objective indicators of early respiratory disease in calves with Mannheimia haemolytica pneumonia.

Animals—14 crossbred beef steers.

Procedures—Disease was experimentally induced in healthy calves through endoscopic pulmonary inoculation of M haemolytica. Calves were necropsied on days 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, and 9 after inoculation. Physical examination variables (rectal temperature, heart rate, and respiration characteristics), clinical illness score, and degree of activity were assessed 3 times daily beginning 4 days prior to inoculation and continuing throughout the study. Twice before inoculation and on days 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, and 9, arterial blood gas measurements, serum biochemical analyses, and CBCs were performed. Pedometers and accelerometers were used to monitor cattle behavior and activity throughout the trial.

Results—All calves became clinically ill after inoculation and had gross and histopathologic signs of bronchopneumonia. No variable was a reliable indicator of disease progression as judged by percentage of pulmonary involvement. However, activity as measured by total steps taken in a 24-hour period was lower after versus before disease induction.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—This single-pathogen challenge model successfully yielded clinical signs and pathological effects consistent with naturally acquired respiratory disease. Routine laboratory variables and subjective measures were not reliable indicators of lung involvement or the progression of pneumonia. However, activity, objectively measured with pedometers and accelerometers, appeared to be a promising indicator for early recognition of bovine respiratory disease.
Feasibility of transesophageal echocardiography in birds without cardiac disease
Authors: Beaufrère Hugues , Pariaut Romain , Nevarez Javier G. , Tully Thomas N.
Published: March 2010

Objective—To establish a technique of transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) in birds without cardiac disease and describe the imaging planes obtained.

Design—Validation study.

Animals—18 birds including 3 pigeons (Columbia livia), 3 barred owls (Strix varia), 2 red-tailed hawks (Buteo jamaicensis), 1 goose (Anser anser), 1 mallard duck (Anas platyrhynchos), 1 Muscovy duck (Cairina moschata), 2 brown pelicans (Pelecanus occidentalis), 2 Hispaniolan Amazon parrots (Amazona ventralis), 2 red-fronted macaws (Ara rubrogenys), and 1 military macaw (Ara militaris).

Procedures—For each bird, anesthesia was induced and maintained by use of isoflurane. A pediatric, multiplane transesophageal ultrasound probe was passed into the esophagus and adjusted to the level of the heart for echocardiography. Probe positions were recorded via fluoroscopy, and associated imaging planes were described.

Results—TEE was performed successfully in all birds except the pelicans, 1 Hispaniolan Amazon parrot, and the red-fronted macaws. Five imaging planes of the heart were consistently viewed from 3 positions of the probe (identified as caudal, middle, and cranial positions relative to the cardiac silhouette). M-mode echocardiography of the left ventricle and the aortic root was performed. Color flow and spectral Doppler ultrasonographic images of in- and outflow regions were obtained. One Hispaniolan Amazon parrot died as a result of esophageal perforation.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—TEE examination of birds was feasible and provided a larger number of imaging planes with better resolution and details than those typically achieved via a transcoelomic approach. However, TEE should be performed with caution in psittacines.
Effect of Clay on Thermal, Mechanical and Gas Barrier Properties of Biodegradable Poly(lactic acid)/Poly(butylene succinate) (PLA/PBS) Nanocomposites
Authors: Bhatia A. , Gupta R. K. , Bhattacharya S. N. , Choi H. J.
Published: March 2010

A series of poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/poly(butylene succinate) (PBS)/layered silicate nancomposites were prepared by simple melt extrusion of PLA/PBS/Cloisite 30BX (organically modified MMT) clay. Extruded and compression moulded samples containing 1, 3, 5, 7 and 10 wt.% of clay having 80 and 20 wt.% of PLA and PBS respectively, were prepared to investigate morphological, thermal, mechanical and gas barrier properties of these biodegradable nanocomposites. Wide angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD) was used to assess the periodic distance of the clay layers. WAXD indicated an exfoliated structure for nanocomposites containing 1 and 3 wt.% of C30BX, while, dominantly intercalated structures were noticed for nanocomposites having 5, 7 and 10 wt.% of C30BX. Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) images confirmed mixed morphology of intercalated and exfoliated structure even for nanocomposites having 1 and 3 wt.% of C30BX, while some clusters or agglomerated tactoids were detected for higher clay containing (>3 wt.%) nanocomposites. Thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA) revealed the thermal stabilities of polymer blend and their nancomposites. Nanocomposite with 3 wt.% C30BX clay showed enhanced thermal stability compared to other nanocomposites. The effect on the crystallinity, investigated by Modulated Differential Scanning Calorimetry (MDSC) showed slight improvement for nanocomposites having 1, 3, 7 and 10 wt.% of C30BX studied. However, nanocomposites having 5 wt.% of clay content showed higher crystallinity compared to the rest of the nanocomposites. Mechanical properties (tensile strength, % elongation at break and Young's modulus) were measured by Instron Universal Testing Machine. Tensile strength and Young's modulus initially increased for nanocomposites of up to 3 wt.% of clay but then decreased with the introduction of more clay. Oxygen permeabilities of the nanocomposites were also measured. Barrier properties were improved by approximately 26% with the increase of clay content in these nanocomposites.
Appropriate Boundary Conditions in the Flow of Molten Polymers
Authors: Hatzikiriakos S. G.
Published: March 2010

There is considerable experimental evidence that the classical no-slip boundary condition of fluid mechanics is not always a valid assumption for the flow of high molecular weight molten polymers. In fact, molten polymers slip at solid surfaces when the wall shear stress exceeds a critical value. Moreover, there exists a second critical wall shear stress value at which a transition from a weak to a strong slip takes place. The later corresponds to the case of an almost plug flow and it is accompanied by pressure oscillations in the case of capillary flow generated by a constant-speed piston-driven capillary rheometer. The two modes of slip (weak and strong) are due to flow-induced chain detachment/desorption directly from the polymer/wall interface and to chain disentanglement of the polymer chains in the bulk from a monolayer of polymer chains adsorbed at the interface. In this work, the two physical mechanisms of slip are discussed and validated on the basis of suitably analyzed experimental data. Based on these two modes of slip, the slip phenomena observed during the capillary flow of polymers (mainly polyethylenes) are explained including the absence of pressure oscillations in the capillary flow of branched polyethylenes.
Synchrotron–microcomputed tomography studies of normal and pathological cranial sutures: further insight
Authors: Regelsberger Jan , Schmidt Tobias , Busse Björn , Herzen Julia , Tsokos Michael , Amling Michael , Beckmann Felix
Published: March 2010

Object

Both CT and high-frequency ultrasound have been shown to be reliable diagnostic tools used to differentiate normal cranial sutures from suture synostosis. In nonsynostotic plagiocephaly, overlapping of the bony plates and the so-called “sticky suture” is still controversial and is believed to represent a pathological fusion process. Synchrotron–microcomputed tomography (SRmCT) studies were undertaken to determine whether positional head deformities can be assumed to be true suture pathologies.

Methods

Morphological features and growth development of 6 normal cranial sutures between the ages of 3 and 12 months were analyzed histologically. Additionally 6 pathological sutures, including sagittal synostosis and nonsynostotic plagiocephaly (NSP), were compared with the group of normal sutures by histological and SRmCT studies. Synchrotron-microcomputed tomography is a special synchrotron radiation source with a high photon flux providing a monochromatic x-ray beam with a very high spatial resolution. Morphological characteristics of the different suture types were evaluated and bone density alongside the sutures was measured to compare the osseous structure of the adjacent bony plates of normal and pathological sutures.

Results

Histologically jointlike osseous edges of the normal sutures were seen in the 1st month of life and interlocking at the age of approximately 12 months. During this 1st year, bone thickness increases and suture width decreases. The SRmCT studies showed that: 1) sutures and adjacent bones in NSP are comparable to normal sutures in terms of their morphological aspects; 2) bone densities in the adjacent bony plates of NSP and normal sutures are not different; 3) thickening of the diploe with ridging of the bone in sagittal synostosis is associated with significantly higher bone density; 4) synostotic sutures are only partially fused but vary in their extent; and 5) nonfused sections in sagittal synostosis behave like normal sutures without any signs of pathological bone formation.

Conclusions

Sutures in patients with NSP were found without any morphological irregularities or different osseous structures alongside those compared with normal sutures. Thus, a true suture pathology or osseous change of the adjacent bony plates is highly unlikely in NSP. Even though the number of specimens is limited in this series, cranial suture fusion seems to start at one undetermined point and spread along the suture, whereas other parts of the same suture are not involved according to morphological aspects and bone density measurements of the adjacent bones. This theory may represent a dynamic fusion process completed over time but just starting too early.
Ossifying lipoma of the cervical spine
Authors: Brones Ashley , Mengshol Sarah , Wilkinson C. Corbett
Published: March 2010

The authors present the case of a 21-month-old girl with a posterior cervical subcutaneous/spinal lipoma that contained heterotopic bone. The patient demonstrated no neurological deficits and the lesion was resected without complication. The lesion was determined to be an ossifying lipoma. The literature on ossifying lipomas and osteolipomas is reviewed and the differences between the two are enumerated.
Adult scoliosis surgery outcomes: a systematic review
Authors: Yadla Sanjay , Maltenfort Mitchell G. , Ratliff John K. , Harrop James S.
Published: March 2010

Object

Appreciation of the optimal management of skeletally mature patients with spinal deformities requires understanding of the natural history of the disease relative to expected outcomes of surgical intervention. Appropriate outcome measures are necessary to define the surgical treatment. Unfortunately, the literature lacks prospective randomized data. The majority of published series report outcomes of a particular surgical approach, procedure, or surgeon. The purpose of the current study was to systematically review the present spine deformity literature and assess the available data on clinical and radiographic outcome measurements.

Methods

A systematic review of MEDLINE and PubMed databases was performed to identify articles published from 1950 to the present using the following key words: “adult scoliosis surgery,” “adult spine deformity surgery,” “outcomes,” and “complications.” Exclusion criteria included follow-up shorter than 2 years and mean patient age younger than 18 years. Data on major curve (coronal scoliosis or lumbar lordosis Cobb angle as reported), major curve correction, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores, Scoliosis Research Society (SRS) instrument scores, complications, and pseudarthroses were recorded.

Results

Forty-nine articles were obtained and included in this review; 3299 patient data points were analyzed. The mean age was 47.7 years, and the mean follow-up period was 3.6 years. The average major curve correction was 26.6° (for 2188 patients); for 2129 patients, it was possible to calculate average curve reduction as a percentage (40.7%). The mean total ODI was 41.2 (for 1289 patients), and the mean postoperative reduction in ODI was 15.7 (for 911 patients). The mean SRS-30 equivalent score was 97.1 (for 1700 patients) with a mean postoperative decrease of 23.1 (for 999 patients). There were 897 reported complications for 2175 patients (41.2%) and 319 pseudarthroses for 2469 patients (12.9%).

Conclusions

Surgery for adult scoliosis is associated with improvement in radiographic and clinical outcomes at a minimum 2-year follow-up. Perioperative morbidity includes an approximately 13% risk of pseudarthrosis and a greater than 40% incidence of perioperative adverse events. Incidence of perioperative complications is substantial and must be considered when deciding optimal disease management. Although the quality of published studies in this area has improved, particularly in the last few years, the current review highlights the lack of routine use of standardized outcomes measures and assessment in the adult scoliosis literature.
Massive Charcot spinal disease deformity in a patient presenting with increasing abdominal girth and discomfort
Authors: Bishop Frank S. , Dailey Andrew T. , Schmidt Meic H.
Published: March 2010

Charcot spinal disease is a destructive degenerative process involving the vertebrae and surrounding discs, resulting from repetitive microtrauma in patients who have decreased joint protective mechanisms due to loss of deep pain and proprioceptive sensation. The typical presentation of the disease is back pain and progressive spinal instability and deformity. The authors report an unusual case of massive Charcot spinal disease deformity in a patient presenting with increasing abdominal girth and discomfort.
Intraoperative computed tomography image–guided navigation for posterior thoracolumbar spinal instrumentation in spinal deformity surgery
Authors: Tormenti Matthew J. , Kostov Dean B. , Gardner Paul A. , Kanter Adam S. , Spiro Richard M. , Okonkwo David O.
Published: March 2010

Object

Placement of thoracolumbar pedicle screws in spinal deformity surgery has a reported inaccuracy rate as high as 30%. At present, image-guided navigation systems designed to improve instrumentation accuracy typically use intraoperative fluoroscopy or preoperative CT scans. The authors report the prospective evaluation of the accuracy of posterior thoracolumbar spinal instrumentation using a new intraoperative CT operative suite with an integrated image guidance system. They compare the accuracy of thoracolumbar pedicle screw placement using intraoperative CT image guidance with instrumentation placement utilizing fluoroscopy.

Methods

Between December 2007 and July 2008, 12 patients underwent posterior spinal instrumentation for spinal deformity correction using intraoperative CT-based image guidance. An intraoperative CT scan of the sterile surgical field was obtained after decompression and before instrumentation. Instrumentation was placed, and a postinstrumentation CT scan was obtained before wound closure to assess the accuracy of instrumentation placement and the potential need for revision. The accuracy of pedicle screw placement was later reviewed and recorded by independent observers. A comparison group of 14 patients who underwent thoracolumbar instrumentation utilizing fluoroscopy and postoperative CT scanning during the same time period was evaluated and included in this analysis.

Results

In the intraoperative CT-based image guidance group, a total of 164 thoracolumbar pedicle screws were placed. Two screws were found to have breached the pedicle wall (1.2%). Neither screw was deemed to need revision due to misplacement. In the comparison group, 211 pedicle screws were placed. Postoperative CT scanning revealed that 11 screws (5.2%) had breached the pedicle. One patient in the fluoroscopy group awoke with a radiculopathy attributed to a misplaced screw, which required revision. The difference in accuracy was statistically significant (p = 0.031).

Conclusions

Intraoperative CT-based image guidance for placement of thoracolumbar instrumentation has an accuracy that exceeds reported rates with other image guidance systems, such as virtual fluoroscopy and 3D isocentric C-arm-based stereotactic systems. Furthermore, with the use of intraoperative CT scanning, a postinstrumentation CT scan allows the surgeon to evaluate the accuracy of instrumentation before wound closure and revise as appropriate.