bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In vitro expansion patterns of ameroid ring constrictors
Authors: Leshem Steven S. , Lotsikas Peter J. , Reimer S. Brent
Published: November 2008

Objective—To evaluate and quantify in vitro dimensional changes of ameroid ring constrictors (ARCs) with and without the outer stainless steel ring in place over time.

Sample Population—12 ARCs (5.0-mm diameter).

Procedures—6 ARCs were immersed in canine plasma baths for 34 days without the stainless steel outer ring in place (group N), and 6 ARCs were immersed in canine plasma baths with the stainless steel outer ring in place (group R). The ARCs were digitally imaged at day 0, daily for the first 10 days, then on days 14, 20, 27, and 34. Inner diameter, outer diameter, luminal area, and height were measured for each time point. Volume and weight of rings were obtained at the start and completion of the study.

Results—The inner diameter, outer diameter, and luminal area were significantly different between the 2 groups over the course of 34 days. The inner diameter and luminal area of the R-group constructs did not change significantly, while the inner diameter, outer diameter, luminal area, and height of N-group constructs all significantly increased over the course of the study.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—R-group constructs had insignificant centripetal swelling without ring closure, whereas N-group constructs had significant generalized centrifugal expansion. Results of this study indicated that the outer stainless steel ring of an ARC may not be necessary for attenuation and closure of some single extrahepatic portosystemic shunts.
Uterine involution and endometrial function in postpartum pony mares
Authors: Jischa Susanne , Walter Ingrid , Nowotny Norbert , Palm Franziska , Budik Sven , Kolodziejek Jolanta , Aurich Christine
Published: November 2008

Objective—To determine endometrial regeneration in postpartum mares by analysis of histologic features, apoptosis and cell proliferation markers, lectin binding, cytokines, and progesterone and estrogen receptors in endometrial biopsy specimens.

Animals—9 postpartum mares.

Procedures—Mares were examined on postpartum days 1, 9, and 16, and uterine biopsy specimens were obtained for histologic examination. Lectin binding was analyzed histochemically, and expressions of Ki-67 antigen (proliferation marker), lysozyme, and caspase 3 (apoptosis marker) were studied immunohistochemically. Gene expressions for cytokines (interleukin-1β, -6 and -8 and tumor necrosis factor-α), cyclooxygenase 2, prostaglandin-E-synthase, and estrogen and progesterone receptors were determined by use of quantitative real-time PCR assay.

Results—On day 1, neutrophils predominated but by day 9 had largely been replaced by lymphocytes and macrophages. High numbers of cells with staining for caspase 3 were found on day 1, but numbers decreased by day 9. In contrast, the number of cells with staining for Kiel 67 antigen increased between days 1 and 9. Lectin binding to the endometrium changed over time. Relative mRNA expressions for cytokines and prostaglandin-E-synthase did not differ among days. Expressions of progesterone and estrogen receptors were minimal on day 1 and increased by day 9.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Early postpartum endometrial cells underwent apoptosis, but during the second week, postpartum proliferation of cells predominated. Lectin binding reflected changes in endometrial glycocalyx patterns. Increased expression of estrogen receptors allowed the endometrium to respond to estrogen during foal heat, and in subsequent diestrus, the endometrium was able to respond to progesterone.
Effects of gender and parental status on knowledge and attitudes of dog owners regarding dog aggression toward children
Authors: Reisner Ilana R. , Shofer Frances S.
Published: November 2008

Objective—To assess the effects of gender and parental status of dog owners on knowledge of and attitudes toward factors associated with dog aggression directed toward children.

Design—Prevalence survey.

Population—804 dog owners.

Procedures—A questionnaire was distributed to owners of all dogs examined at a university veterinary hospital between January and April 2007. Respondents were asked to indicate whether they agreed or disagreed with 37 statements regarding dog behavior and safety practices for dog-child interactions. Responses were compared between women and men and between parents and nonparents.

Results—Of 804 questionnaires that were completed, 421 (52%) were completed by parents and 598 (74%) were completed by women. There was a general lack of knowledge regarding dog behavior and safety practices for dog-child interactions. Women were more knowledgeable than men, regardless of parental status. Mothers were more knowledgeable than fathers and female nonparents regarding interactions with young children and had greater awareness than female nonparents and males (regardless of parental status) regarding interactions with infants and toddlers.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that dog owners frequently had only limited knowledge of dog behavior and often were unaware of factors that increased the risk of dog bites to children. The veterinary examination presents an important opportunity for education of dog owners regarding dog behavior, including body language, social signals, resource-guarding, and self-defense, and the risks of dog bites to infants and young children.
Retrospective evaluation of the effects of diazepam in dogs with anxiety-related behavior problems
Authors: Herron Meghan E. , Shofer Frances S. , Reisner Ilana R.
Published: November 2008

Objective—To characterize the effects of diazepam in dogs with behavior problems and to determine whether adverse effects were of sufficient concern to owners to prompt drug discontinuation.

Design—Cross-sectional study.

Sample Population—37 dogs and their owners.

Procedures—Dogs for which diazepam had been prescribed by the behavior service of a veterinary teaching hospital from July 2005 through June 2007 were identified. Owners were interviewed via telephone to obtain data on dose and frequency of administration of diazepam, effectiveness, adverse effects, and, when applicable, reasons for discontinuing the drug.

Results—Diazepam was described as very (24% [9/37]) or somewhat (43% [16/37]) effective by most owners. At the time of the interview, 18 (49%) owners reported that they were still administering diazepam to their dogs. For the remainder, reasons for discontinuation included adverse effects (58% [11/19]) and lack of efficacy (53% [10/19]). Reported adverse effects included sedation, increased appetite, ataxia, agitation, increased activity, and aggression. Owners administering diazepam to ameliorate fear of thunderstorms (24% [9/37]) were more likely to view diazepam as effective than were owners of dogs that received it for separation anxiety (54% [20/37]). Owners of dogs that received ≥ 0.8 mg of diazepam/kg (0.36 mg/lb) were more likely to report increased activity as an adverse effect than were owners of dogs that received < 0.8 mg/kg.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Adverse effects of diazepam in dogs were commonly reported and often led to drug discontinuation. Owner education and follow-up is recommended to avoid treatment failure when prescribing diazepam for anxiety-related behavior problems in dogs.
Use of a balloon-expandable metallic stent for treatment of nasopharyngeal stenosis in dogs and cats: six cases (2005–2007)
Authors: Berent Allyson C. , Weisse Chick , Todd Kimberly , Rondeau Mark P. , Reiter Alexander M.
Published: November 2008

Objective—To determine outcome associated with use of a balloon-expandable metallic stent for treatment of nasopharyngeal stenosis in dogs and cats.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—3 dogs and 3 cats.

Procedures—All 6 animals had severe inspiratory stertor at initial examination. Two animals had no orifice present at the stenosis. Nasopharyngeal stenosis was diagnosed and stent size determined by use of computed tomography. A percutaneous transluminal angioplasty balloon premounted with a balloon-expandable metallic stent was placed over a guidewire, advanced through the stenotic lesion under fluoroscopic and rhinoscopic guidance, and dilated to restore patency.

Results—All animals had immediate resolution of clinical signs after stent placement. The procedure took a median of 38 minutes (range, 22 to 70 minutes). One animal with a stenosis located far caudally needed the tip of the stent resected because of hairball entrapment and exaggerated swallowing. Both animals without an orifice in the stenosis had tissue in-growth requiring a covered stent. All animals were reexamined 6 to 12 weeks after treatment via rhinoscopy, radiography, computed tomography, or a combination of techniques. All animals lacked signs of discomfort; 5 of 6 were breathing normally 12 to 28 months after the procedure.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Transnasal balloon-expandable metallic stent placement may represent a rapid, safe, noninvasive, and effective treatment in animals with nasopharyngeal stenosis. If the stenosis is extremely caudal in the nasopharynx, serial balloon dilatation might be considered prior to stent placement. A covered stent should be considered initially if the stenosis is completely closed.
Use of a nitinol gooseneck snare catheter for removal of adult Dirofilaria immitis in two cats
Authors: Small Merrilee T. , Atkins Clarke E. , Gordon Sonya G. , Birkenheuer Adam J. , Booth-Sayer Margaret A. , Keene Bruce W. , Fujii Yoko , Miller Matthew W.
Published: November 2008

Case Description—2 cats were examined because of congestive heart failure secondary to heartworm infection.

Clinical Findings—One cat had severe abdominal distention and the other had dyspnea secondary to chylothorax. Both had loud right-sided heart murmurs, precordial thrills, and jugular distension. Thoracic radiography revealed cardiomegaly and enlarged caudal pulmonary arteries. Echocardiography revealed tricuspid regurgitation and multiple hyperechoic structures consistent with adult Dirofilaria immitis within the right atrium, right ventricle, and main pulmonary artery. Pulmonary hypertension was documented by means of Doppler echocardiography in 1 cat.

Treatment and Outcome—Cats were anesthetized, and a nitinol gooseneck snare catheter was introduced into the right side of the heart via a jugular venotomy. In the first cat, the snare was used to retrieve 5 female and 2 male adult D immitis. The catheter was then passed into the main pulmonary artery in an unsuccessful attempt to retrieve remaining heartworms. In the second cat, 2 adult female D immitis were removed from the right atrium with the nitinol snare. In both cats, clinical signs resolved within 4 weeks after the procedure.

Clinical Relevance—Findings suggested that use of a nitinol gooseneck snare catheter may be a safe and effective technique for removing adult D immitis from the right atrium and ventricle in cats and that successful removal of adult heartworms in infected cats may resolve clinical signs of right-sided congestive heart failure and chylothorax. In addition, findings in 1 cat suggested that removal of all adult heartworms may not be necessary for clinical signs to resolve.
Deductive systems of a cone algebra — I: Semi-ℓg-cones
Authors: Subrahmanyam N.
Published: November 2008

A semi-ℓg-cone is an algebra (C;*,:,·) of type (2, 2, 2) satisfying the equations (a*a)*b = b = b: (a: a); a*(b: c) = (a*b): c; a: (b*a) = (b: a)*b and (ab) *c = b* (a * c). An ℓ-group cone is a semi-ℓg-cone and a bounded semi-ℓg-cone is term equivalent to a pseudo MV-algebra. Also, a subset A of a semi-_g-cone C is an ideal of C if and only if it is a deductive system of its reduct (C;*,:).
Deductive systems of a cone algebra — II: Isomorphism theorem
Authors: Subrahmanyam N.
Published: November 2008

We prove that there is an isomorphism φ of the lattice of deductive systems of a cone algebra onto the lattice of convex ℓ-subgroups of a lattice ordered group (determined by the cone algebra) such that for any deductive system A of the cone algebra, A is respectively a prime, normal or polar if and only if φ(A) is a prime convex ℓ-subgroup, ℓ-ideal or polar subgroup of the ℓ-group, thus generalizing and extending the result of Rachůnek that the lattice of ideals of a pseudo MV-algebra is isomorphic to the lattice of convex ℓ-subgroups of a unital lattice ordered group.
The theory and application of latin bitrades: A survey
Authors: Cavenagh Nicholas
Published: November 2008

A latin bitrade is a pair of partial latin squares which are disjoint, occupy the same set of non-empty cells, and whose corresponding rows and columns contain the same sets of symbols. This survey paper summarizes the theory of latin bitrades, detailing their applications to critical sets, random latin squares and existence constructions for latin squares.
Radical classes and weak radical mappings of GMV-algebras
Authors: Jakubík Ján
Published: November 2008

We use the concept of generalized MV-algebra (GMV-algebra, in short) in the sense of Galatos and Tsinakis; the main tool in their investigation was a truncation construction. The relations between radical classes of GMV-algebras and radical classes of lattice ordered groups are investigated in the present paper. Further, we apply the truncation construction for dealing with weak retract mappings of GMV-algebras.
Sequential convergences on cyclically ordered groups without Urysohn’s axiom
Authors: Jakubík Ján
Published: November 2008

In this paper we investigate sequential convergences on a cyclically ordered group G which are compatible with the group operation and with the relation of cyclic order; we do not assume the validity of the Urysohn’s axiom. The system convG of convergences under consideration is partially ordered by means of the set-theoretical inclusion. We prove that convG is a Brouwerian lattice.
Entrée dans l’écrit en contexte plurilingue et défavorisé : développer les capacités métaphonologiques et sensibiliser à la diversité linguistique
Authors: Armand Françoise , Sirois François , Ababou Samira
Published: November 2008

Abstract:

This article presents the results of research conducted in multilingual and underprivileged schools in Montreal. The goals of the first study were to observe the effects of participation in activities involving metaphonological capacities and the development of these capacities, as well as pre-reading abilities in French as a second language, among 107 students of immigrant origin in seven kindergarten classes (age five). A further analysis was conducted in order to determine whether there were differences in the results according to the type of intervention (with or without language awareness) and according to the type of class (regular or welcoming class). The second study involved the participation of a smaller number of students, specifically those attending the three welcoming classes in the school. In particular, it aimed to observe the effects of activities promoting language awareness on the students’ representations of the status of their first language (L1) in relation to that of the French language (L2) at their school and, in general, how they viewed linguistic diversity.
Of Mother Tongues and Other Tongues: The Stakes of Linguistically Inclusive Pedagogy in Minority Contexts
Authors: Taylor Lisa K.
Published: November 2008

Abstract:

This article addresses two key challenges that globalization poses to literacy research: the need for new models of literacy and literacy education, and the stakes of adopting multiliteracies pedagogies in different contexts – that is, the tensions between competing hegemonic discourses of collective identity in the public sphere of ethnolinguistic minority societies that are sparked when globalization destabilizes monocultural institutional practices. I explore the stakes of multiliteracies practice within Québec, an increasingly poly-ethnic white settler society and proto-nation whose minority ethnonational project has been launched on the very terrain of federal multiculturalism within a bilingual framework and provincial interculturalism within a monolingual framework. The article reports on a qualitative study of teacher discourse following collaborative multiliteracies curriculum development in an ethnolinguistically diverse English-language Montréal elementary school. It focuses on the shifting conceptions of multilingual and academic literacies articulated as teachers bring the ‘lens of the personal’ to negotiate competing values and identities implicit in their emerging practice.
Spinal Cord Injury: The Promise of Translational Research
Authors: Fehlings Michael G. , Tighe Allyson
Published: November 2008

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a condition with devastating consequences for the patient, family, and society. Although effective treatments for SCI remain limited, there have been many advances in recent years, which have promise for the future from a clinical translational perspective. This issue of Neurosurgical Focus explores some of the current basic science, preclinical, and clinical research directed towards this goal. Clinical investigations are also discussed with regard to the treatment and management of different types of SCI and of SCI in different populations. The issue concludes with a review of the current, ongoing, and planned clinical trials, providing a glimpse of the promising new therapies being developed for the treatment of SCI.
Prevalence of cervical spinal injury in trauma
Authors: Milby Andrew H. , Halpern Casey H. , Guo Wensheng , Stein Sherman C.
Published: November 2008

Object

Diagnosis of cervical spinal injury (CSI) is an essential aspect of the trauma evaluation. This task is especially difficult in patients who are not clinically able to be evaluated (unevaluable) because of distracting painful injuries, intoxication, or concomitant head injury. For this population, the appropriate use of advanced imaging techniques for cervical spinal clearance remains undetermined. This study was undertaken to estimate the prevalence of unstable CSI, particularly among patients in whom clinical evaluation is impossible or unreliable.

Methods

Estimates of the prevalence of CSI in populations consisting of all trauma patients, alert patients only, and clinically unevaluable patients only were determined by variance-weighted pooling of data from 65 publications (281,864 patients) that met criteria for review.

Results

The overall prevalence of CSI among all trauma patients was 3.7%. The prevalence of CSI in alert patients was 2.8%, whereas unevaluable patients were at increased risk of CSI with a prevalence of 7.7% (p = 0.007). Overall, 41.9% of all CSI cases were considered to exhibit instability.

Conclusions

Trauma patients who are clinically unevaluable have a higher prevalence of CSI than alert patients. Knowledge of the prevalence and risk of such injuries may help establish an evidence-based approach to the detection and management of clinically occult CSI.
Electrophysiological outcomes after spinal cord injury
Authors: Xie James , Boakye Maxwell
Published: November 2008

Electrophysiological measures can provide information that complements clinical assessments such as the American Spinal Injury Association sensory and motor scores in the evaluation of outcomes after spinal cord injury (SCI). The authors review and summarize the literature regarding tests that are most relevant to the study of SCI recovery—in particular, motor evoked potentials and somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEPs). In addition, they discuss the role of other tests, including F-wave nerve conductance tests and electromyography, sympathetic skin response, and the Hoffman reflex (H-reflex) test as well as the promise of dermatomal SSEPs and the electrical perceptual threshold test, newer quantitative tests of sensory function.

It has been shown that motor evoked potential amplitudes improve with SCI recovery but latencies do not. Somatosensory evoked potentials are predictive of ambulatory capacity and hand function. Hoffman reflexes are present during spinal shock despite the loss of tendon reflexes, but their amplitudes increase with time after injury. Further, H-reflex modulation is reflective of changes in spinal excitability. While these tests have produced data that is congruent with clinical evaluations, they have yet to surpass clinical evaluations in predicting outcomes. Continuing research using these methodologies should yield a better understanding of the mechanisms behind SCI recovery and thus provide potentially greater predictive and evaluative power.
The effects of intrathecal hypotension on tissue perfusion and pathophysiological outcome after acute spinal cord injury
Authors: Horn Eric M. , Theodore Nicholas , Assina Rachid , Spetzler Robert F. , Sonntag Volker K. H. , Preul Mark C.
Published: November 2008

Object

Venous stasis and intrathecal hypertension are believed to play a significant role in the hypoperfusion present in the spinal cord following injury. Lowering the intrathecal pressure via cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) drainage has been effective in treating spinal cord ischemia during aorta surgery. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether CSF drainage increases spinal cord perfusion and improves outcome after spinal injury in an animal model.

Methods

Anesthetized adult rabbits were subjected to a severe contusion spinal cord injury (SCI). Cerebrospinal fluid was then drained via a catheter to lower the intrathecal pressure by 10 mm Hg. Tissue perfusion was assessed at the site of injury, and values obtained before and after CSF drainage were compared. Two other cohorts of animals were subjected to SCI: 1 group subsequently underwent CSF drainage and the other did not. Results of histological analysis, motor evoked potential and motor function testing were compared between the 2 cohorts at 4 weeks postinjury.

Results

Cerebrospinal fluid drainage led to no significant improvement in spinal cord tissue perfusion. Four weeks after injury, the animals that underwent CSF drainage demonstrated significantly smaller areas of tissue damage at the injury site. There were no differences in motor evoked potentials or motor score outcomes at 4 weeks postinjury.

Conclusions

Cerebrospinal fluid drainage effectively lowers intrathecal pressure and decreases the amount of tissue damage in an animal model of spinal cord injury. Further studies are needed to determine whether different draining regimens can improve motor or electrophysiological outcomes.
Cardiovascular complications after acute spinal cord injury: pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management
Authors: Furlan Julio C. , Fehlings Michael G.
Published: November 2008

Cardiovascular complications in the acute stage following traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) require prompt medical attention to avoid neurological compromise, morbidity, and death. In this review, the authors summarize the neural regulation of the cardiovascular system as well as the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of major cardiovascular complications that can occur following acute (up to 30 days) traumatic SCI. Hypotension (both supine and orthostatic), autonomic dysreflexia, and cardiac arrhythmias (including persistent bradycardia) are attributed to the loss of supraspinal control of the sympathetic nervous system that commonly occurs in patients with severe spinal cord lesions at T-6 or higher. Current evidence-based guidelines recommend: 1) monitoring of cardiac and hemodynamic parameters in the acute phase of SCI; 2) maintenance of a minimum mean arterial blood pressure of 85 mm Hg during the hyperacute phase (1 week after SCI); 3) timely detection and appropriate treatment of neurogenic shock and cardiac arrhythmias; and 4) immediate and adequate treatment of episodes of acute autonomic dysreflexia. In addition to these forms of cardiovascular dysfunction, individuals with acute SCIs are at high risk for deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism due to loss of mobility and, potentially, altered fibrinolytic activity, abnormal platelet function, and impaired circadian variations of hemostatic and fibrinolytic parameters. Current evidence supports a recommendation for thromboprophylaxis using mechanical methods and anticoagulants during the acute stage up to 3 months following SCI, depending on the severity and level of injury. Low-molecular-weight heparin is the first choice for anticoagulant prophylaxis in patients with acute SCI. Although there is insufficient evidence to recommend (or refute) the use of screening tests for DVT in asymptomatic adults with acute SCI, this strategy may detect asymptomatic DVT in at least 9.4% of individuals who undergo thromboprophylaxis using lowmolecular- weight heparin. Indications and treatment of DVT and acute pulmonary embolism are well established and are summarized in this review. Recognition of cardiovascular complications after acute SCI is essential to minimize adverse outcomes and to optimize recovery.
Protection and repair of the injured spinal cord: a review of completed, ongoing, and planned clinical trials for acute spinal cord injury
Authors: Hawryluk Gregory W. J. , Rowland James , Kwon Brian K. , Fehlings Michael G.
Published: November 2008

Over the past 2 decades, advances in understanding the pathophysiology of spinal cord injury (SCI) have stimulated the recent emergence of several therapeutic strategies that are being examined in Phase I/II clinical trials. Ten randomized controlled trials examining methylprednisolone sodium succinate, tirilizad mesylate, monosialotetrahexosylganglioside, thyrotropin releasing hormone, gacyclidine, naloxone, and nimodipine have been completed. Although the primary outcomes in these trials were laregely negative, a secondary analysis of the North American Spinal Cord Injury Study II demonstrated that when administered within 8 hours of injury, methylprednisolone sodium succinate was associated with modest clinical benefits, which need to be weighed against potential complications. Thyrotropin releasing hormone (Phase II trial) and monosialotetrahexosylganglioside (Phase II and III trials) also showed some promise, but we are unaware of plans for future trials with these agents. These studies have, however, yielded many insights into the conduct of clinical trials for SCI. Several current or planned clinical trials are exploring interventions such as early surgical decompression (Surgical Treatment of Acute Spinal Cord Injury Study) and electrical field stimulation, neuroprotective strategies such as riluzole and minocycline, the inactivation of myelin inhibition by blocking Nogo and Rho, and the transplantation of various cellular substrates into the injured cord. Unfortunately, some experimental and poorly characterized SCI therapies are being offered outside a formal investigational structure, which will yield findings of limited scientific value and risk harm to patients with SCI who are understandably desperate for any intervention that might improve their function. Taken together, recent advances suggest that optimism for patients and clinicians alike is justified, as there is real hope that several safe and effective therapies for SCI may become available over the next decade.
Current status of acute spinal cord injury pathophysiology and emerging therapies: promise on the horizon
Authors: Rowland James W. , Hawryluk Gregory W. J. , Kwon Brian , Fehlings Michael G.
Published: November 2008

This review summarizes the current understanding of spinal cord injury pathophysiology and discusses important emerging regenerative approaches that have been translated into clinical trials or have a strong potential to do so. The pathophysiology of spinal cord injury involves a primary mechanical injury that directly disrupts axons, blood vessels, and cell membranes. This primary mechanical injury is followed by a secondary injury phase involving vascular dysfunction, edema, ischemia, excitotoxicity, electrolyte shifts, free radical production, inflammation, and delayed apoptotic cell death. Following injury, the mammalian central nervous system fails to adequately regenerate due to intrinsic inhibitory factors expressed on central myelin and the extracellular matrix of the posttraumatic gliotic scar. Regenerative approaches to block inhibitory signals including Nogo and the Rho-Rho–associated kinase pathways have shown promise and are in early stages of clinical evaluation. Cell-based strategies including using neural stem cells to remyelinate spared axons are an attractive emerging approach.
Duration of lipid peroxidation after acute spinal cord injury in rats and the effect of methylprednisolone
Authors: Christie Sean D. , Comeau Ben , Myers Tanya , Sadi Damaso , Purdy Mark , Mendez Ivar
Published: November 2008

Object

Oxidative stress leading to lipid peroxidation is a major cause of secondary injury following spinal cord injury (SCI). The objectives of this study were to determine the duration of lipid peroxidation following acute SCI and the efficacy of short-and long-term administration of methylprednisolone on decreasing lipid peroxidation.

Methods

A total of 226 female Wistar rats underwent clip-compression induced SCI. In the first part of the study, spinal cords of untreated rats were assayed colorimetrically for malondialdehyde (MDA) to determine lipid peroxidation levels at various time points between 0 and 10 days. In the second part of the study, animals were treated with methylprednisolone for either 24 hours or 7 days. Control animals received equal volumes of normal saline. Treated and control rats were killed at various time points between 0 and 7 days.

Results

The MDA levels initially peaked 4 hours postinjury. By 12 hours, the MDA levels returned to baseline. A second increase was observed from 24 hours to 5 days. Both peak values differed statistically from the trough values (p < 0.008). The methylprednisolone reduced MDA levels (p < 0.04) within 12 hours of injury. No effect was seen at 24 hours or later.

Conclusions

The results of this study indicate that oxidative stress persists for 5 days following SCI in rats, and although methylprednisolone reduces MDA levels within the first 12 hours, it has no effect on the second lipid peroxidation peak.
Factors affecting neurological outcome in traumatic conus medullaris and cauda equina injuries
Authors: Kingwell Stephen P. , Curt Armin , Dvorak Marcel F.
Published: November 2008

The purpose of this review was to describe the relevant factors that influence neurological outcomes in patients who sustain traumatic conus medullaris injuries (CMIs) and cauda equina injuries (CEIs). Despite the propensity for spinal trauma to affect the thoracolumbar spine, few studies have adequately characterized the outcomes of CMIs and CEIs. Typically the level of neural axis injury is inferred from the spinal level of injury or the presenting neurological picture because no study from the spinal literature has specifically evaluated the location of the conus medullaris with respect to the level of greatest canal compromise. Furthermore, the conus medullaris is known to have a small but important variable location based on the spinal level. Patients with a CMI will typically present with variable lowerextremity weakness, absent lower-limb reflexes, and saddle anesthesia. The development of a mixed upper motor neuron and lower motor neuron syndrome may occur in patients with CMIs, whereas a CEI is a pure lower motor neuron injury. Many treatment options exist and should be individualized. Posterior decompression and stabilization offers at least equivalent neurological outcomes as nonoperative or anterior approaches and has the additional benefits of surgeon familiarity, shorter hospital stays, earlier rehabilitation, and ease of nursing care. Overall, CEIs and CMIs have similar outcomes, which include ambulatory motor function and a variable persistence of bowel, bladder, and potentially sexual dysfunctions.
Subaxial cervical spine trauma classification: the Subaxial Injury Classification system and case examples
Authors: Patel Alpesh A. , Dailey Andrew , Brodke Darrel S. , Daubs Michael , Anderson Paul A. , Hurlbert R. John , Vacccaro Alexander R. , _ _
Published: November 2008

Object

The authors review a novel subaxial cervical trauma classification system and demonstrate its application through a series of cervical trauma cases.

Methods

The Spine Trauma Study Group collaborated to create the Subaxial Injury Classification (SLIC) and Severity score. The SLIC system is reviewed and is applied to 3 cases of subaxial cervical trauma.

Results

The SLIC system identifies 3 major injury characteristics to describe subaxial cervical injuries: injury morphology, discoligamentous complex integrity, and neurological status. Minor injury characteristics include injury level and osseous fractures. Each major characteristic is assigned a numerical score based upon injury severity. The sum of these scores constitutes the injury severity score.

Conclusions

By addressing both discoligamentous integrity and neurological status, the SLIC system may overcome major limitations of earlier classification systems. The system incorporates a number of critical clinical variables—including neurological status, absent in earlier systems—and is simple to apply and may provide both diagnostic and prognostic information.
Hyperextension cervical spine injuries and traumatic central cord syndrome
Authors: Aarabi Bizhan , Koltz Michael , Ibrahimi David
Published: November 2008

Traumatic central cord syndrome (TCCS), regardless of its biomechanics, is the most frequently encountered incomplete spinal cord injury. Patients with TCCS present with disproportionate weakness of the upper extremities, and variable sensory loss and bladder dysfunction. Fractures and/or subluxations, forced hyperextension, and herniated nucleus pulposus are the main pathogenetic mechanisms of TCCS. Nearly 50% of patients with TCCS suffer from congenital or degenerative spinal stenosis and sustained their injuries during hyperextension as originally described by Schneider in 1954. Immunohistochemical and imaging studies indicate mild to moderate insult to axons and their ensheathing myelin in the lateral funiculi culminating in cytoskeletal injury and impaired conduction. More than one-half of these patients enjoy spontaneous recovery of motor weakness; however, as time goes on, lack of manual dexterity, neuropathic pain, spasticity, bladder dysfunction, and imbalance of gait render their activities of daily living nearly impossible. Based on the current level of evidence, there is no clear indication of the timing of decompression for relief of sustained spinal cord compression in hyperextension injuries. Future research, taking advantage of validated digital imaging data such as maximum canal compromise, maximum spinal cord compression, and lesion length on the CT and MR images, as well as more sensitive measures of bladder and hand function, spasticity, and neuropathic pain may help tailor surgery for a specific group of these patients.
Effect of a nonprotein bioactive agent on the reduction of cyclooxygenase-2 and tumor necrosis factor–α in human intervertebral disc cells in vitro
Authors: Yoshida Tatsuhiro , Park Jin Soo , Yokosuka Kimiaki , Jimbo Kotaro , Yamada Kei , Sato Kimiaki , Nagata Kensei
Published: November 2008

Object

Neurotropin is a nonprotein extract from the inflamed skin of rabbits inoculated with vaccinia virus. In the present study the authors sought to clarify the focal antiinflammatory effects of Neurotropin in intervertebral disc cells, and these effects were compared with those induced by the selective cyclooxygenase (COX)–2 inhibitor 6-methoxy-2-naphthylacetic acid (nabumetone).

Methods

Six human intervertebral disc specimens were harvested during spinal surgery for lumbar disc herniation. Cells were stimulated with 500 pg/ml of interleukin (IL)–1β in the presence of various concentrations of Neurotropin (0, 10−5, 10−4, and 10−3Neurotropin Units/ml) or 50 μg/ml of nabumetone for 3 hours. The mRNA was extracted for polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and real-time PCR was used to quantify the mRNA levels of COX- 2, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)–α, and phospholipase A2. Cyclooxygenase-2, TNFα, and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) protein concentrations were each determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

Neurotropin was found to significantly suppress the expression of COX-2 and TNFα at mRNA levels as well as the concentration of COX-2 at protein levels in a dose-dependent manner. Nabumetone was found to significantly increase COX-2 at mRNA levels but directly suppress the concentration of PGE2 in culture medium.

Conclusions

Results in this study suggest that Neurotropin has an analgesic effect through the suppression of COX-2 and TNFα in a focal area, and nabumetone shows this same effect through the suppression of PGE2 production. Thus, Neurotropin could decrease pain by blocking the central pain pathway or increasing focal antiinflammatory effects.
Ossification of the ligamentum flavum in a Caucasian man
Authors: Xu Risheng , Sciubba Daniel M. , Gokaslan Ziya L. , Bydon Ali
Published: November 2008

Abnormal ossification of spinal ligaments is a well-known cause of myelopathy in East Asian populations, with ossification of the ligamentum flavum (OLF) and the posterior longitudinal ligament being the most prevalent. In Caucasian populations, OLF is rare, and there has been only 1 documented case of the disease affecting more than 5 spinal levels. In this report, the authors describe the clinical presentation, imaging characteristics, and management of the second published case of a Caucasian man with OLF affecting almost the entire thoracic spine. The literature is then reviewed with regard to OLF epidemiology, pathogenesis, presentation, and treatment.
Anterior cervical fusion: a biomechanical comparison of 4 techniques
Authors: Galbusera Fabio , Bellini Chiara M. , Costa Francesco , Assietti Roberto , Fornari Maurizio
Published: November 2008

Object

Cervical instrumented fusion is currently performed using several fixation methods. In the present paper, the authors compare the following 4 implantation methods: a stand-alone cage, a cage supplemented by an anterior locking plate, a cage supplemented by an anterior dynamic plate, and a dynamic combined plate–cage device.

Methods

Four finite element models of the C4–7 segments were built, each including a different instrumented fixation type at the C5–6 level. A compressive preload of 100 N combined with a pure moment of 2.5 Nm in flexion, extension, right lateral bending, and right axial rotation was applied to the 4 models. The segmental principal ranges of motion and the load shared by the interbody cage were obtained for each simulation.

Results

The stand-alone cage showed the lowest stabilization capability among the 4 configurations investigated, but it was still significant. The cage supplemented by the locking plate was very stiff in all directions. The 2 dynamic plate configurations reduced flexibility in all directions compared with the intact case, but they left significant mobility in the implanted segment. These configurations were able to share a significant part of the load (up to 40% for the combined plate–cage) through the posterior cage. The highest risk of subsidence was obtained with the model of the stand-alone cage.

Conclusions

Noticeable differences in the results were detected for the 4 configurations. The actual clinical relevance of these differences, currently considered not of critical importance, should be investigated by randomized clinical trials.
Clinical accuracy of 3D fluoroscopy–assisted cervical pedicle screw insertion
Authors: Ito Yasuo , Sugimoto Yoshihisa , Tomioka Masao , Hasegawa Yasuhiro , Nakago Kie , Yagata Yukihisa
Published: November 2008

Object

Cervical pedicle screw (PS) misplacement leads to injury of the spinal cord, nerve root, and vertebral artery. Recently, several investigators reported on the usefulness of a spinal navigation system that improves the accuracy of PS insertion. In this study, the authors assessed the accuracy of cervical pedicle, lateral mass, and odontoid screw insertions placed using a 3D fluoroscopy navigation system, the Iso-C3D unit.

Methods

In this prospective analysis of the authors' initial 50 cases of 3D fluoroscopy–assisted cervical screw insertion, the authors inserted 176 PSs, 58 lateral mass screws, and 5 odontoid screws into the C1–7 vertebrae. They placed screws using intraoperative acquisition of data by the isocentric C-arm fluoroscope and a computer navigation system. They obtained postoperative fine-cut CT scans in all patients and assessed the accuracy of screw insertion.

Results

A PS (≥ 3.5 mm) could be inserted into 24 (63%) of 38 pedicles at the level of C-3, 18 (53%) of 34 pedicles at C-4, 30 (65%) of 46 at C-5, 33 (80%) of 41 at C-6, and 43 (100%) of 43 at C-7. Of 176 PSs inserted into vertebrae between C-2 and C-7, 171 screws (97.2%) were classified as Grade 1 (no pedicle perforation), and 5 screws (2.8%) were classified as Grade 2 (screw perforation of the cortex by up to 2 mm). Clinically significant screw deviation in the present study was considered Grade 3 (screw perforation of the cortex by > 2 mm), and this occurred in 0% of the placements.

Conclusions

In this study, the authors were able to correctly insert cervical PSs using the 3D fluoroscopy and navigation system.
Occult cervical (C1–2) dural tear causing bilateral recurrent subdural hematomas and repaired with cervical epidural blood patch
Authors: Buvanendran Asokumar , Byrne Richard W. , Kari Maruti , Kroin Jeffrey S.
Published: November 2008

The authors report the case of a 56-year-old previously healthy man who presented with a 4-month history of postural headache accompanied by nausea and vomiting. The results of initial imaging studies of the brain were normal. Repeated MR imaging demonstrated bilateral subdural hematomas which were drained and reaccumulated over a period of time. Spinal myelography revealed a cerebrospinal fluid leak at the C1–2 level. A cervical epidural blood patch, with repeated injections of 10 ml autologous blood at the site of the leak, dramatically improved the headache within 24 hours and eliminated the recurrent subdural hematomas. The results of follow-up computed tomography of the brain at 1, 4, 8, and 16 weeks were normal, and at 1-year follow-up the patient was completely free of symptoms and working.
Percutaneous transthoracic fenestration of an intramedullary neurenteric cyst in the thoracic spine with intraoperative magnetic resonance image navigation and thoracoscopy
Authors: Takahashi Shinobu , MoriKawa Shigehiro , Saruhashi Yasuo , MatsUsue Yoshitaka , Kawakami Mamoru
Published: November 2008

Neurenteric cysts are rare congenital cysts typically located in the anterior cervical or thoracic spinal canal. The authors report on their experience with the successful treatment of a midthoracic neurenteric cyst in an 8-year-old boy. Percutaneous fenestration via a transthoracic, transvertebral approach with combined thorascopy and intraoperative MR imaging guidance was used, and the cyst showed lasting shrinkage. The authors discuss this minimally invasive technique and its limitations.
Intraosseous delivery of paclitaxel-loaded hydroxyapatitealginate composite beads delaying paralysis caused by metastatic spine cancer in rats
Authors: Abe Tetsuya , Sakane Masataka , Ikoma Toshiyuki , Kobayashi Mihoko , Nakamura Satoshi , Ochiai Naoyuki
Published: November 2008

Object

Bone is frequently the first site and the only site of breast cancer at recurrence. Local control is important especially for metastatic spine cancer, because epidural spinal cord compression is significantly associated with the quality of life and survival of these patients. The authors have developed a local delivery system of paclitaxel in the form of hydroxyapatite-alginate composite beads. This study was conducted to clarify the therapeutic effect in a rat model of metastatic spine cancer.

Methods

Twenty-one rats with metastatic spine cancer were divided into 3 groups: a local treatment group (6 rats), a systemic treatment group (9 rats), and a control group (6 rats). The hind-limb motor function of the animals was monitored daily by using the Basso-Beattie-Bresnahan scale. The authors monitored the disease-free time and survival times. The log-rank test was used to define statistically significant differences between the 3 groups.

Results

The animals in the control group developed hind-limb paralysis at a mean of 10.8 days and died at a mean of 16.0 days. The animals treated with 2.4 wt% of paclitaxel-loaded hydroxyapatite-alginate composite beads (the local treatment group) showed a 140–150% increase in the disease-free time and survival time compared with that of the control group. Although an ~ 30-fold higher dosage of paclitaxel was administered, the therapeutic effect was not evident in the systemic treatment group.

Conclusions

Intraosseous delivery of paclitaxel-loaded hydroxyapatite-alginate composite beads delayed paralysis caused by metastatic spine cancer in rats. The results indicate that intraosseous chemotherapy may provide an effective local treatment of metastatic spine cancer.
Assessing the Information Content in Environmental Modelling: A Carbon Cycle Perspective
Authors: Enting Ian G.
Published: November 2008

A model represents the way in which information about the world is captured in a form that can be manipulated for application to new situations. However, quantification of `model error' presents formidable challenges. Various inverse problems in carbon cycle modelling are presented as illustrations of the issues. A `maximum-entropy' representation of carbon cycle response is used to explore techniques for non-parametric estimation of carbon cycle uncertainty.
TFIP11 Interacts with mDEAH9, an RNA Helicase Involved in Spliceosome Disassembly
Authors: Wen Xin , Tannukit Sissada , Paine Michael  L.
Published: November 2008

Yeast proteins Ntr1, Ntr2 and Prp43 function in spliceosome disassembly. An Ntr1-Ntr2 protein complex recruits Prp43 to allow the removal of the lariat-intron in latestage RNA splicing activity. Based on amino-acid sequence similarities across species, TFIP11 and mDEAH9/Dhx15 have been identified as homologues of yeast Ntr1 and Prp43, respectively. The N-terminal region of TFIP11 contains a G-patch, which is a highly conserved domain of many RNA-processing proteins. TFIP11 displays a unique and characteristic subnuclear localization pattern, in close proximity to SC35 nuclear speckles. Transfected GFP-tagged mDEAH9 displays an evenly distributed nuclear localization and is excluded from the nucleoli; however when TFIP11 and mDEAH9 are co-transfected, both proteins colocalize to distinct nuclear speckles. These data show that TFIP11 recruits mDEAH9 suggesting that these two proteins have similar biological activities to their yeast counterparts.
Synthesis, Characterization and Antimicrobial Activity of New 1,2,3-Selenadiazoles
Authors: Al-Smadi Mousa , Al-Momani Fouad
Published: November 2008

The commercially available aromatic polyketones 1a-d were utilized for the synthesis of the multi-arm1,2,3-selenadiazole derivatives 3a-d. The preparation starts with the reaction between compounds 1a-d and p-toluenesulfonyl hydrazide to give the corresponding tosylhydrazones 2a-d. Subsequent reaction with selenium dioxide leads to regiospecific ring closure of the tosylhydrazones to give the target multi-arm 1,2,3-selenadiazole derivatives in high yield. A 1,2,3-selenadiazole derivative 3e containing an epoxide ring was also prepared. The structures of all the synthesized compounds were confirmed on the basis of spectral and analytical data. The compounds were screened in vitro for their antimicrobial activity against various pathogenic bacterial and Candida strains obtained from King Abdullah Hospital in Irbid -Jordan. Compounds 3a, 3c and 3e were found to be highly active against all the selected pathogens. Compound 3e showed an inhibition zone of 13 mm against the highly resistant P. aruginosa.