bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physical and microbial qualities of raw milk collected from Bangladesh Agricultural University dairy farm and the surrounding villages
Authors: Khan MTG , Zinnah MA , Siddique MP , Rashid MHA , Islam MA , Choudhury KA
Published: April 2009

The present study was undertaken with the aim of investigating the physical parameters (e.g. organoleptic and specific gravity of raw milk) and also to study the microbiological quality of raw milk (total viable count, Coliform count and Staphylococcal count) from different villages and Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU) Dairy Farm of Mymensingh District of Bangladesh, during the period from July to November 2007. A total number of 100 raw milk samples were collected at morning and evening from BAU dairy farm and surrounding four villages of BAU campus. The organoleptic and bacteriological qualities of each sample were analyzed. The organoleptic examination included taste panel score to assess consumer's acceptance and the bacteriological analysis comprised enumeration of total viable count (TVC), total colifrom count (TCC) and total staphylococcal count (TSC) for the determination of sanitary quality. The organoleptic quality of the milk samples is more or less same except the Churkhai milk samples which had flat taste (in 16% milk sample). The average values of TVC/ml were log 5.920, 5.934, 6.007, 6.075 and 6.127 for BAU Dairy Farm, Boira, Shutiakhali, Churkahai and Paglabazar respectively; coliform count were log 2.501, 2.522, 2.550, 2.620 and 2.619 respectively; staphylococcal count were log 2.832, 2.812, 2.866, 2.931 and 2.988 respectively. So, it may be concluded that the raw milk samples of BAU Dairy Farm were superior to others collected from the selected villages which may be due to maintaining better hygienic condition. Key words: Raw milk, physical and microbial quality Â  doi: 10.3329/bjvm.v6i2.2339 Bangl. J. Vet. Med. (2008). 6 (2): 217-221
Management of simple obstructive colic in an Arabian horse
Authors: Azizunnesa A , Das BC , Sutradhar BC , Faruk MO , Hossain MF
Published: April 2009

An adult gelding chestnut colored Arabian horse, approximately 700kg body weight, aged 18 years, height 5 feets 8 inches with the history of anorexia, recurrent mild pain and pawing was presented for clinical study in Bhatiary, Chittagong on the dated 15 June 2007. The clinical examination of the patient revealed normal temperature, increased pulse and respiration rates, absence of abdominal sounds. On close observation, the horse was anxious, anorexic, restless condition, intermittent pawing on the ground, rolling, circling, stretching out and standing for long period. There was no defecation and scanty urination. On rectal palpation, the rectum was emptied. Fecal examination also revealed no eggs of endoparasites. The horse was treated nonsurgically with antibiotic, liquid paraffin, oil of turpentine. Fluid therapy was also given depending upon degree of dehydration. The horse was observed each and every day for follow up treatment and recorded the condition of health. Recovered the horse fully within10 days. Key words: Gelding, colic, stretching out, treatment Â Â  doi: 10.3329/bjvm.v6i2.2341 Bangl. J. Vet. Med. (2008). 6 (2): 227-228
Arterial supply to the esophagus of Black Bengal goat
Authors: Islam MS , Quasem MA , Awal MA , Das SK , Uddin MM
Published: April 2009

To study the blood supply to the esophagus of Black Bengal goat a research was conducted in the Department of Anatomy and Histology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202 with 12 Black Bengal goats of over 6 months of age of both sexes. The esophagus of Black Bengal goat was sampled at six sites- cranial cervical, middle cervical, caudal cervical, at the level of thoracic inlet, at the middle mediastinum and at the level of cardia. The arteries supplying the cervical and thoracic part of the esophagus came from the left common carotid and esophageal artery respectively. The esophageal artery arose from the thoracic aorta independently in Black Bengal goat. Key words: Blood supply, esophagus, Black Bengal goat Â  doi: 10.3329/bjvm.v6i2.2342 Bangl. J. Vet. Med. (2008). 6 (2): 229-230
Oesophageal impaction in an indigenous goose
Authors: Das BC , Azizunnesa A , Sutradhar BC , Faruk MO
Published: April 2009

An esophageal impaction consisting of plant material was diagnosed and treated in an indigenous goose. An adult freeflying indigenous goose with flaccid neck muscles, lethargic, emaciated and mildly dehydrated was brought to TVH (Teaching Veterinary Hospital), Chittagong Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Khulshi, Chittagong, Bangladesh. Palpation of neck revealed solid tubular mass ventrally in the mid cervical region. Treatment included oesophagotomy and drug therapy. The bird was fully recovered within 10 days of post operation. Key words: Impaction, cervical region, oesophagotomy Â  doi: 10.3329/bjvm.v6i2.2344 Bangl. J. Vet. Med. (2008). 6 (2): 231-232
A Bayesian Algorithm for Functional Mapping of Dynamic Complex Traits
Authors: Liu Tian , Wu Rongling
Published: April 2009

Functional mapping of dynamic traits measured in a longitudinal study was originally derived within the maximum likelihood (ML) context and implemented with the EM algorithm. Although ML-based functional mapping possesses many favorable statistical properties in parameter estimation, it may be computationally intractable for analyzing longitudinal data with high dimensions and high measurement errors. In this article, we derive a general functional mapping framework for quantitative trait locus mapping of dynamic traits within the Bayesian paradigm. Markov chain Monte Carlo techniques were implemented for functional mapping to estimate biologically and statistically sensible parameters that model the structures of time-dependent genetic effects and covariance matrix. The Bayesian approach is useful to handle difficulties in constructing confidence intervals as well as the identifiability problem, enhancing the statistical inference of functional mapping. We have undertaken simulation studies to investigate the statistical behavior of Bayesian-based functional mapping and used a real example with F2 mice to validate the utilization and usefulness of the model.
ALE-PSO: An Adaptive Swarm Algorithm to Solve Design Problems of Laminates
Authors: Vannucci Paolo
Published: April 2009

This paper presents an adaptive PSO algorithm whose numerical parameters can be updated following a scheduled protocol respecting some known criteria of convergence in order to enhance the chances to reach the global optimum of a hard combinatorial optimization problem, such those encountered in global optimization problems of composite laminates. Some examples concerning hard design problems are provided, showing the effectiveness of the approach.
The Autonomous House: A Bio-Hydrogen Based Energy Self-Sufficient Approach
Authors: Chen Shang-Yuan , Chu Chen-Yeon , Cheng Ming-jen , Lin Chiu-Yue
Published: April 2009

In the wake of the greenhouse effect and global energy crisis, finding sources of clean, alternative energy and developing everyday life applications have become urgent tasks. This study proposes the development of an "autonomous house" emphasizing the use of modern green energy technology to reduce environmental load, achieve energy autonomy and use energy intelligently in order to create a sustainable, comfortable living environment. The houses' two attributes are: (1) a self-sufficient energy cycle and (2) autonomous energy control to maintain environmental comfort. The autonomous house thus combines energy-conserving, carbon emission-reducing passive design with active elements needed to maintain a comfortable environment.
Real World Study to Evaluate the Effectiveness of Varenicline and Cognitive-Behavioural Interventions for Smoking Cessation
Authors: Ramon Josep Mª. , Bruguera Eugeni
Published: April 2009

A prospective pragmatic interventional study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of varenicline for smoking cessation among a cohort of motivated smokers attending two smoking cessation clinics. Smokers between 18 and 65 years who had smoked 10 or more cigarettes per day were included. All participants received cognitive-behavioural varenicline according to approved dose and prescriptions. Continuous abstinence, validated by exhaled CO levels, was assessed in each control. A total of 264 smokers – 155 males (58.7%) and 109 females (41.3%) – were included. Mean age was 43.7, amount smoked was 23 cigarettes per day and 61.4% had at least one prior attempt to quit. The continuous abstinence rate at end of treatment (12 wks) was 58.3%. Conclusions: varenicline and cognitive-behavioural intervention are effective for smoking cessation with high continuous abstinence rates when are used in a clinical setting.
Non-Enzymatic Template-Directed Recombination of RNAs
Authors: Nechaev Sergey  Y. , Lutay Alexei  V. , Vlassov Valentin  V. , Zenkova Marina  A.
Published: April 2009

RNA non-enzymatic recombination reactions are of great interest within the hypothesis of the "RNA world", which argues that at some stage of prebiotic life development proteins were not yet engaged in biochemical reactions and RNA carried out both the information storage task and the full range of catalytic roles necessary in primitive self-replicating systems. Here we report on the study of recombination reaction occuring between two 96 nucleotides (nts) fragments of RNAs under physiological conditions and governed by a short oligodeoxyribonucleotide template, partially complementary to sequences within each of the RNAs. Analysis of recombination products shows that ligation is predominantly template-directed, and occurs within the complementary complex with the template in "butt-to-butt" manner, in 1- or 3- nts bulges or in 2-3 nts internal loops. Minor recombination products formed in the template-independent manner are detected as well.
The Mechanical and Biological Properties of Chitosan Scaffolds for Tissue Regeneration Templates Are Significantly Enhanced by Chitosan from Gongronella butleri
Authors: Nwe Nitar , Furuike Tetsuya , Tamura Hiroshi
Published: April 2009

Chitosan with a molecular weight (MW) of 104 Da and 13% degree of acetylation (DA) was extracted from the mycelia of the fungus Gongronella butleri USDB 0201 grown in solid substrate fermentation and used to prepare scaffolds by the freeze-drying method. The mechanical and biological properties of the fungal chitosan scaffolds were evaluated and compared with those of scaffolds prepared using chitosans obtained from shrimp and crab shells and squid bone plates (MW 105-106 Da and DA 10-20%). Under scanning electron microscopy, it was observed that all scaffolds had average pore sizes of approximately 60-90 mm in diameter. Elongated pores were observed in shrimp chitosan scaffolds and polygonal pores were found in crab, squid and fungal chitosan scaffolds. The physico-chemical properties of the chitosans had an effect on the formation of pores in the scaffolds, that consequently influenced the mechanical and biological properties of the scaffolds. Fungal chitosan scaffolds showed excellent mechanical, water absorption and lysozyme degradation properties, whereas shrimp chitosan scaffolds (MW 106Da and DA 12%) exhibited the lowest water absorption properties and lysozyme degradation rate. In the evaluation of biocompatibility of chitosan scaffolds, the ability of fibroblast NIH/3T3 cells to attach on all chitosan scaffolds was similar, but the proliferation of cells with polygonal morphology was faster on crab, squid and fungal chitosan scaffolds than on shrimp chitosan scaffolds. Therefore fungal chitosan scaffold, which has excellent mechanical and biological properties, is the most suitable scaffold to use as a template for tissue regeneration.
Synthesis of γ-Nitro Aliphatic Methyl Esters Via Michael Additions Promoted by Microwave Irradiation
Authors: Escalante Jaime , Díaz-Coutiño Francisco D.
Published: April 2009

A simple and efficient protocol has been developed for the direct synthesis of γ-nitrobutyric acid methyl esters under microwave irradiation. This methodology reduces reaction times from days to minutes, compared to conventional conditions. Additionally, these conditions increased yields and provided cleaner reactions.
Preparation of Benzothiazole-Substituted Carbosilane Dendrimers up to the 7th Generation
Authors: Kim Chungkyun , Kim Hyojeong
Published: April 2009

Carbosilane dendrimers with 2-(2-phenyloxy)benzothiazole groups on the periphery were prepared from the 1st to the 7th generation. All dendrimers were characterized by 1H- and 13C-NMR, elemental analysis, MALDI TOF MS, GPC, and PL (photoluminescence) spectroscopy. Characteristic PDI (Polydisperse Index) values of the peaks corresponding to the respective dendrimers in the GPC data is in very narrow range of 1.00~1.04. All PL spectra show a blue-shift increasing with generation from the 1st to the 7th.
A Novel Intra-body Sensor for Vaginal Temperature Monitoring
Authors: Rodrigues Joel  J. P. C. , Caldeira João , Vaidya Binod
Published: April 2009

Over the years some medical studies have tried to better understand the internal behavior of human beings. Many researchers in this domain have been striving to find relationships between intra-vaginal temperature and certain female health conditions, such as ovulation and fertile period since woman’s intra-vaginal temperature is one of the body parameters most preferred in such studies. However, due to lack of a appropriate technology, medical research devoted to studying correlations of such body parameters with certain womans’ body phenomena could not obtain better results. This article presents the design and implementation of a novel intra-body sensor for acquisition and monitoring of intra-vaginal temperatures. This novel intra-body sensor provides data collection that is used for studying the relation between temperature variations and female health conditions, such as anticipation and monitoring of the ovulation period, detection of pregnancy contractions, preterm labor prevention, etc.. The motivation for this work focuses on the development of this new intra-body sensor that will represent a major step in medical technology. The novel sensor was tested and validated on hospitalized women as well as normal healthy women. Finally our medical team has attested to the accuracy, usability and performance of this novel intra-body sensor.
Root Zone Sensors for Irrigation Management in Intensive Agriculture
Authors: Pardossi Alberto , Incrocci Luca , Incrocci Giorgio , Malorgio Fernando , Battista Piero , Bacci Laura , Rapi Bernardo , Marzialetti Paolo , Hemming Jochen , Balendonck Jos
Published: April 2009

Crop irrigation uses more than 70% of the world’s water, and thus, improving irrigation efficiency is decisive to sustain the food demand from a fast-growing world population. This objective may be accomplished by cultivating more water-efficient crop species and/or through the application of efficient irrigation systems, which includes the implementation of a suitable method for precise scheduling. At the farm level, irrigation is generally scheduled based on the grower’s experience or on the determination of soil water balance (weather-based method). An alternative approach entails the measurement of soil water status. Expensive and sophisticated root zone sensors (RZS), such as neutron probes, are available for the use of soil and plant scientists, while cheap and practical devices are needed for irrigation management in commercial crops. The paper illustrates the main features of RZS’ (for both soil moisture and salinity) marketed for the irrigation industry and discusses how such sensors may be integrated in a wireless network for computer-controlled irrigation and used for innovative irrigation strategies, such as deficit or dual-water irrigation. The paper also consider the main results of recent or current research works conducted by the authors in Tuscany (Italy) on the irrigation management of container-grown ornamental plants, which is an important agricultural sector in Italy.
Anchor-Free Localization Method for Mobile Targets in Coal Mine Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Pei Zhongmin , Deng Zhidong , Xu Shuo , Xu Xiao
Published: April 2009

Severe natural conditions and complex terrain make it difficult to apply precise localization in underground mines. In this paper, an anchor-free localization method for mobile targets is proposed based on non-metric multi-dimensional scaling (Multi-dimensional Scaling: MDS) and rank sequence. Firstly, a coal mine wireless sensor network is constructed in underground mines based on the ZigBee technology. Then a non-metric MDS algorithm is imported to estimate the reference nodes’ location. Finally, an improved sequence-based localization algorithm is presented to complete precise localization for mobile targets. The proposed method is tested through simulations with 100 nodes, outdoor experiments with 15 ZigBee physical nodes, and the experiments in the mine gas explosion laboratory with 12 ZigBee nodes. Experimental results show that our method has better localization accuracy and is more robust in underground mines.
On the Capability of Artificial Neural Networks to Compensate Nonlinearities in Wavelength Sensing
Authors: Hafiane Mohamed Lamine , Dibi Zohir , Manck Otto
Published: April 2009

An intelligent sensor for light wavelength readout, suitable for visible range optical applications, has been developed. Using buried triple photo-junction as basic pixel sensing element in combination with artificial neural network (ANN), the wavelength readout with a full-scale error of less than 1.5% over the range of 400 to 780 nm can be achieved. Through this work, the applicability of the ANN approach in optical sensing is investigated and compared with conventional methods, and a good compromise between accuracy and the possibility for on-chip implementation was thus found. Indeed, this technique can serve different purposes and may replace conventional methods.
Alphaviruses in Gene Therapy
Authors: Lundstrom Kenneth
Published: April 2009

Alphaviruses are enveloped single stranded RNA viruses, which as gene therapy vectors provide high-level transient gene expression. Semliki Forest virus (SFV), Sindbis virus (SIN) and Venezuelan Equine Encephalitis (VEE) virus have been engineered as efficient replication-deficient and -competent expression vectors. Alphavirus vectors have frequently been used as vehicles for tumor vaccine generation. Moreover, SFV and SIN vectors have been applied for intratumoral injections in animals implanted with tumor xenografts. SIN vectors have demonstrated natural tumor targeting, which might permit systemic vector administration. Another approach for systemic delivery of SFV has been to encapsulate replication-deficient viral particles in liposomes, which can provide passive targeting to tumors and allow repeated administration without host immune responses. This approach has demonstrated safe delivery of encapsulated SFV particles to melanoma and kidney carcinoma patients in a phase I trial. Finally, the prominent neurotropism of alphaviruses make them attractive for the treatment of CNS-related diseases.
Initial experience with a newly developed cementless hip endoprosthesis
Authors: Delfs G. , Hach V.
Published: April 2009

The HELICA-Endoprosthesis is a newly developed cementless hip prosthesis for dogs. It was implanted in 39 dogs that had severe hip osteoarthritis and a history of hip pain, as well as in one dog that had chronic hip luxation. One dog had a bilateral arthroplasty. The body weight of the patients ranged between 22 and 54 kg and their ages between nine months and 10 years. Both the femoral stem and acetabular component of the prosthesis were screwed into position following bony preparation. Additional fixation was not necessary as the components remain fixed in position until osteointegration is complete. There are currently five sizes of prosthesis available, and the various components such as the stem, cup and head are readily interchangeable. Although it appeared that good osseous anchorage of the prostheses in the bone on the surgery table had been obtained, three patients experienced both stem and cup loosening (one week, three weeks and six months after surgery). In one animal, stem loosening was observed six weeks after surgery, and another dog experienced a cup loosening two weeks postoperatively. Most of the complications were due to technical errors that occurred during the learning phase. Surgical revisions were successful in three out of five animals. In two animals we had to perform a femoral head and neck excision. Two other animals experienced radiographic bone resorption underneath the segmented collar of the femoral prosthesis but did not show any significant clinical signs of lameness. Another dog that showed signs of ischial neuropraxy after surgery, recovered completely within six weeks after surgery. All of the dogs were capable of weight bearing on the operated leg one day after surgery. The main advantage of the HELICA-Endoprosthesis is the relatively easy surgical technique and short surgery time. The initial clinical results in these 40 cases have been very encouraging. The aim of this study was to assess the early clinical results in these 39 dogs. Final evaluation can only be based on the results of gait analysis, long-term follow-up, and post mortem histological analysis.
Changes to articular cartilage following remote application of radiofrequency energy and with or without Cosequin therapy
Authors: McLaughlin R. M. , Elder S. H. , Pool R. R. , Read R. R. , Boyle C. R. , Horstman C. L.
Published: April 2009

Objective: To determine the short- and long-term changes in the biomechanical properties and metabolic activity of articular cartilage following the remote application of bipolar radiofrequency (bRF) and monopolar radiofrequency (mRF) energy within the rabbit stifle joint.

Methods: The rabbits were randomly assigned to either Group-1 (normal rabbit food), or they were assigned to Group-2 (2% Cosequin® in the diet). Each rabbit underwent bilateral stifle arthroscopy with either bRF or mRF applied to the infrapatellar fat pad for 45 seconds. Cartilage samples were collected at zero, four, and 14 weeks after surgery. Data were analyzed with a mixed model analysis of variance (ANOVA) for chondrocyte death, amount of GAG synthesis, and the equilibrium compressive modulus.

Results: A significant increase in histological damage was noted at weeks four and 14 compared to week zero. Most of the chondrocyte death noted with confocal laser microscopy (49 of 56 samples) was noted in the superficial region (outer 25%) of the articular cartilage. GAG synthesis was not significantly different between groups or devices at any time point. A significant difference was not noted in equilibrium compressive modulus throughout the study.

Conclusions: Remote application of bRF and mRF energy lead to immediate chondrocyte death. Most of the damage was superficial hence the metabolic activity and biomechanical properties of the extra-cellular matrix were maintained throughout this study. Treatment with Cosequin did not prevent superficial chondrocyte death caused by the application of radio-frequency (RF) energy with in the joint.
An evaluation of prosthetic femoral head impact on acetabular articular cartilage in a hemiarthroplasty model
Authors: Stanley R. , Appleyard R. , McGee M. , Callary S. , Nilsson K. , Field J. R.
Published: April 2009

Objectives: The quantitation of the impact of hemiarthroplasty currently involves clinical outcome measures and radiographic evaluation. This study used in vivo and in vitro means in order to evaluate articular cartilage changes following hemiarthroplasty in the sheep.

Methods: Radiostereometric analysis (RSA) was utilized in order to quantitate migration (penetration) in vivo of the femoral head into the articular cartilage of the acetabulum. Dynamic stiffness of retrieved specimens was quantitated in vitro using a handheld device. Chondrocyte viability was assessed using live/dead cell staining and quantitated using image analysis techniques. Saffranin-O staining provided histological assessment of the cellular response to hemiarthroplasty.

Results: RSA showed rapid penetration of the femoral head into the acetabular cartilage over six months. Significantly higher levels of dynamic stiffness were observed in the acetabula following hemiarthroplasty. Confocal imagery highlighted changes in chondrocyte distribution and morphology. A loss of metachromasia, fibrovascular tissue invasion and apoptosis were observed histologically.

Conclusions: RSA and measurement of the dynamic mechanical characteristics of cartilage provide a means of evaluating the development of degenerative articular cartilage changes in response to hemiarthroplasty.
The effects of screw placement on plate strain in 3.5 mm dynamic compression plates and limited-contact dynamic compression plates
Authors: Horstman C. L. , Crawford R. L. , Vaughn T. , Elder S. , McLaughlin R. , Maxwell M.
Published: April 2009

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of screw omission on plate strain during axial load to failure and cycling using a Delrin rod gap model. In addition, the differences between the 3.5 mm limited-contact dynamic compression plate (LC-DCP) and the 3.5 mm dynamic compression plate (DCP) were evaluated. Six, 12-hole LC-DCP and DCP plates were applied to Delrin rods with a 1 cm gap located within the central portion of the plate. Six screw configurations were tested with the following variations: three proximal and three distal (six open), four proximal and three distal (five open), four proximal and four distal (four open), five proximal and four distal (three open), five proximal and five distal (two open), six proximal and five distal (one open). Three strain gauges were mounted on each plate within the gap (gauge three) and extended proximally. Additionally, three constructs (six, three, and one open hole) were tested to failure in cyclic loading. The strain measured within the gap (gauge three) was significantly greater than the strain at other gauges for each screw configuration. Strain within the gap did not significantly change with any screw configuration, but did significantly increase at other locations as screws were omitted. Overall, the DCP withstood significantly more cycles than the LC-DCP. Differences were noted within the DCP group with the 6/5 screw configuration lasting for significantly more cycles than the 5/4 and 3/3 constructs. Although overall strain at the gap did not significantly increase with screw omission, the clinical significance remains to be determined.
Ground reaction force analysis of unilateral coxofemoral denervation for the treatment of canine hip dysplasia
Authors: Lister S. A. , Renberg W. C. , Stephens C. L. , Roush J. K.
Published: April 2009

Coxofemoral denervation has success rates of 90–96% reported retrospectively for palliative treatment of hip dysplasia. The aim of this study was to objectively evaluate ground reaction forces (GRF) in dysplastic dogs after unilateral denervation. Unilateral coxofemoral denervation was performed by means of a previously reported technique on 10 dogs with asymmetric gait. GRF were measured at zero, one and three months. Statistical analysis was performed using repeated measures analysis of variance and paired t-tests, with p≤0.05. There was a lack of significant difference in mean peak vertical force (PVF) or vertical impulse (VI) in the operated limb (TX) over time. For the unoperated limb (UnTX), mean PVF and VI significantly decreased over time. The dogs were significantly more lame in the TX limb initially and at one month, however, there was no significant difference between limbs by three months. In the UnTX limb, 40% of dogs decreased PVF by >5%, by three months. Over time, there was no significant difference in mean average rise or mean average fall for TX or UnTX limbs. Between limbs, mean rise in the TX limb was significantly less at zero months, but not at one or three months. Decreased compensatory load shifting to the UnTX limb due to procedural efficacy could explain decreases in the UnTX limb. Worsening disease could also explain decreases in the UnTX limb, and may indicate a protective effect denoted by a lack of change in the TX limb. Longer follow-up would be required in improved dogs in order to document continued efficacy.
Morphological and biomechanical studies on the common calcaneal tendon in dogs
Authors: Reese S. , Jopp I.
Published: April 2009

Spontanous rupture at the distal part of the gastrocnemius tendon (GT) is the second most common non-traumatic tendon injury in dogs, whereas the other strands of the common calcaneal tendon do not seem to have a predisposition to rupture. In order to discover why we investigated the common calcaneal tendons of 63 dogs microscopically and biomechanically. Both the gastrocnemius and superficial digital flexor tendon (SFT) had multiple low vascularized fibrocartilaginous areas within their distal course as opposed to regular parallel fibered areas in the proximal tendon areas. Biomechanical testing revealed that the distal sections in both tendons show a 50% and 70% lower tensile strength (Fmax/kg BW) than the proximal sections (p<0.01), respectively. On the contrary, tensile load (Fmax/mm2) only differed minimally between proximal and distal sections in both tendons (8% and 9%, respectively), whereas the tensile load of the distal gastrocnemius tendon is 35% lower than of the distal superficial flexor tendon (p<0.01). To the authors' knowledge, this is the first study to experimentally show that there are different biomechanical properties within the same tendon. The maximum load to failure is lower in the GT compared to the SFT within the same dog which explains its higher incidence of rupture in the field. The avascular fibrocartilaginous structure in the distal gastrocnemius tendon seems to play a further role in the pathogenesis of spontaneous rupture.
Effects of radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy on radiographic and scintigraphic outcomes in horses with palmar heel pain
Authors: Stewart A. , Benson B. , Tennent-Brown B. , Foreman J. , Byron C.
Published: April 2009

Objective: To investigate the effects of radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy (RESWT) on radiographic and scintigraphic variables in horses with clinical pain referable to the palmar heel.

Methods: Eight client-owner horses with palmar heel pain were treated with RESWT for a total of three treatments. Nuclear scintigraphy and radiography were repeated at the beginning and completion of the study. Scintigram region of interest (ROI) density ratios were calculated and compared between treated limbs, untreated limbs, and a population of comparison limbs from eight horses free of lameness. Radiographs were scored for whole navicular bone appearance as well as distal border synovial fossae number and severity.

Results: There was not any preversus post-treatment difference in scintigraphic navicular pool phase or delayed phase ROI density ratios in treated limbs, or between treated and untreated limbs. Delayed phase ROI density was increased in the central navicular region in treated limbs compared to comparison limbs from non-lame horses at both time points. Radiographic scores remained unchanged.

Clinical significance: RESWT as applied in the present study has no effect on acute palmar heel region scintigraphic or radiographic parameters. Any acute clinical benefit may be due to analgesic effects rather than stimulation of local tissue metabolism.
Chronic intervertebral disk herniation associated with fused vertebrae treated by vertebral lateral corpectomy in a cat
Authors: Malik Y. , Konar M. , Wernick M. , Howard J. , Forterre F.
Published: April 2009

A 10-year-old Domestic Shorthair cat was admitted for chronic ambulatory paraparesis and a spinal malformation. The clinical examination revealed paraparesis accentuated on the left side. Thoracolumbar radio-graphs revealed a spinal malformation with a narrowed intervertebral space between L1 and L2, and a dorsal fusion at the level of L2-L3 with a common dorsal process. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed an intervertebral disk herniation with a ventral compression of the spinal cord at the level of L1/2. A standard vertebral lateral corpectomy with a foraminotomy was performed with a good outcome.
Idiopathic Chondrolysis Treated With Etanercept
Authors: Appleyard Deborah V. , Schiller Jonathan R. , Eberson Craig P. , Ehrlich Michael G.
Published: April 2009

Idiopathic chondrolysis of the hip in children has been well documented in the literature. The insidious nature of the symptoms and lack of early radiographic findings and diagnostic testing often delay diagnosis. Children often report a stiff, painful hip and have an associated limp in the absence of trauma or constitutional symptoms. Despite these symptoms it remains a poorly understood diagnosis with no identifiable cause. Some have speculated an inflammatory cause, as this disease exhibits joint space narrowing, presumably due to enzymatic activity similar to juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Despite case reports attempting traction, physical therapy, nonsteroidal antiinflammatories, steroids, and even operative intervention, no current treatment regimen exists that offers proven appreciable benefit. We hypothesized the powerful anti-inflammatory properties of etanercept would provide symptomatic and radiographic improvement of idiopathic chondrolysis of the hip. This article presents a case of an adolescent boy with a stiff, painful left hip that failed treatment with traction, physical therapy, naproxen, and methotrexate, prior to initiating etanercept. After 1 year of daily etanercept therapy, the patient's hip motion improved in all directions and his pain completely resolved. This novel therapeutic approach offered symptomatic relief and radiographic improvement, and may provide an effective treatment strategy for this difficult disease.
Acute Exercise-induced Bilateral Thigh Compartment Syndrome
Authors: Boland Michael R. , Heck Chris
Published: April 2009

Acute compartment syndrome of the thigh is rare due to the space's ability to accommodate large volumes of fluid and, with the exception of the lateral septum, its thin compliant linings. This article describes a case of bilateral exercise-induced severe compartment syndrome treated with anterior and posterior fasciotomies.

A 29-year-old man was admitted to intensive care with myoglobinuria. His left thigh was evaluated 18 hours later for compartment syndrome. The patient reported that 14 hours prior to initial presentation, he had participated in a 1-hour session of vigorous basketball. He gradually developed bilateral moderately severe thigh pain and tea-colored urine. Physical examination revealed pain secondary to passive stretch of both knees at 20° flexion, plus firm anterior and posterior compartments to palpation. A handheld pressure monitor revealed the following compartment pressures: left anterior 80 mm Hg; left posterior 75 mm Hg; right anterior 45 mm Hg; and right posterior 50 mm Hg. Bilateral emergent anterior and posterior compartment fasciotomies were performed. The patient developed a significant severe distal motor and sensory neurological deficit on the left side, which recovered to 3/5 motor strength and protective sensation. At 6-month follow-up, he ambulated with the assistance of a left ankle foot orthosis.

Acute severe compartment syndrome can occur following vigorous exercise. We recommend fasciotomies after exercise-induced acute compartment syndrome rather than initial observation because of the severity of morbidity associated with under-treated compartment syndrome.
Multi-modal, Pre-emptive Analgesia Decreases the Length of Hospital Stay Following Total Joint Arthroplasty
Authors: Duellman Todd J. , Gaffigan Catherine , Milbrandt Joseph C. , Allan D. Gordon
Published: April 2009

Traditional treatment of pain following total joint arthroplasty involves postoperative oral narcotic medications and intravenous patient-controlled analgesia, both of which can result in significant postoperative morbidity. Multi-modal analgesia involving ⩾2 classes of drugs acting on different receptor types may be as effective as single-narcotic/patient-controlled analgesia with fewer analgesic-related side effects. In addition, administering analgesia prior to surgery (pre-emptive) may reduce postoperative pain intensity. The current study was designed to compare the impact of multi-modal pre-emptive analgesia versus patient-controlled analgesia on postoperative nausea, rehabilitation participation, and length of stay following total joint arthroplasty. A retrospective chart review and comparison was performed for patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty who received either postoperatively patient-controlled analgesia or pre-emptive analgesia (scheduled postoperative oxycodone and a COX-2 inhibitor). Length of hospital stay for the preemptive group averaged 2.74 vs 3.28 days for patient-controlled analgesia patients. The patient-controlled analgesia group consumed significantly more intravenous morphine (17.7 mg vs 7.2) and experienced a three-fold increase in nausea. In addition, the patient-controlled analgesia group was twice as likely to miss therapy and nearly 2 times more likely to be discharged to an extended care facility. The use of pre-emptive oxycodone and a selective COX-2 inhibitor decreased postoperative narcotic requirements and increased participation in rehabilitation. In addition, patients receiving pre-emptive analgesics had a decreased hospital length of stay and reduced likelihood of discharge to a skilled nursing facility. These data support the continued study and use of pre-emptive multi-modal analgesia paradigms in this population.
Early Fracture of a Bioabsorbable Tibial Interference Screw After ACL Reconstruction With Subsequent Chondral Injury
Authors: Hall Michael P. , Hergan David M. , Sherman Orrin H.
Published: April 2009

Graft fixation in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is commonly performed with bioabsorbable devices. This article presents a case of a broken bioabsorbable tibial interference screw (Gentle Threads; Biomet, Warsaw, Indiana) that presented as an intra-articular loose body 4 months after ACL reconstruction with posterior tibialis tendon allograft. A 19-year-old man presented with symptoms of pain and catching for 1 week but reported no history of trauma. The broken screw tip was identified on magnetic resonance imaging examination, and the remaining screw appeared to be overinserted into the tibia. During arthroscopic removal, a 10-mm screw tip was found in the lateral gutter. The ACL graft was found to be well fixed, but small areas of chondral damage were found in the patellofemoral and medial compartment. The patient's symptoms resolved postoperatively.

To our knowledge, this is the earliest report of a broken bioabsorbable interference screw and only the second report of subsequent chondral injury due to intra-articular migration. Although rare, late breakage and intra-articular migration of bioabsorbable interference screws should be considered during the postoperative evaluation of any patient with pain or mechanical symptoms, regardless of trauma. This case also supports the importance of both measurement of tibial tunnel length and inspection of the intercondylar notch following interference screw insertion. Orthopedic surgeons performing ACL reconstruction must be aware of this possible complication and its potential for devastating chondral injury.
Dumbbell-type Spinal Solitary Fibrous Tumor With Paraplegia
Authors: Kakimaru Hiroyuki , Matsusaki Masahiko , Sanada Hideaki , Iwata Atsushi , Uchio Yuji
Published: April 2009

Solitary fibrous tumors are rare tumors that most commonly arise in the pleura. This article describes a case of a large dumbbell-shaped solitary fibrous tumor of the thoracic spine that was causing partial paraplegia. The patient was a 75-year-old woman who presented with swelling of the upper back and weakness of the lower extremities. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a dumbbell-shaped tumor mass compressing the spinal cord, predominantly at the level of T8. The tumor extended transversely from the bilateral foramen of T8-T10 to the back muscles. The patient experienced increasing weakness of the lower extremities, so a T7-T11 laminectomy was performed and the tumor was excised piecemeal. Microscopically, the tumor was found to be composed of a proliferation of fibroblastic spindle cells. Immunohistochemically, it was strongly positive for CD34 but negative for S100. These findings were consistent with a solitary fibrous tumor. Three months postoperatively, thoracic radiographs showed progression of spinal kyphosis. Posterior fusion with instrumentation was performed. Three years postoperatively, there was no clinical evidence of tumor recurrence.

Spinal solitary fibrous tumors are rare, particularly dumbbell-shaped tumors; to our knowledge, only 2 have been reported in the literature. The correct diagnosis is aided by noting the bland fibrous histology, strong CD34 immunostaining, and absence of S100 and cytokeratin positivity. Although solitary fibrous tumors of the spine are rare, they should be considered in the differential diagnosis of intraspinal lesions, particularly those occurring near pleura.
Augmentation of Tendon–Bone Interface Healing With Low-intensity Pulsed Ultrasound
Authors: Lu Cheng-Chang , Liu Yu-Chih , Cheng Yuh-Min , Chih Tsai-Tung , Tien Yin-Chun
Published: April 2009

The capacity of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound to accelerate the integration of grafted tendon–within–bone tunnel was evaluated. The extensor digitorum longus tendons of 20 New Zealand white rabbits were transplanted into bone tunnels in both proximal tibias. One side was chosen randomly to receive low-intensity pulsed ultrasound. The other side served as control. Six rabbits each were sacrificed at 2 and 3 weeks postoperatively for biomechanical testing, and 2 rabbits each were sacrificed at 1, 3, 6, and 12 weeks postoperatively for histological study. At 2 weeks postoperatively, the mean maximal tensile strength in the ultrasound-treated group (30.676 N) was significantly stronger (
P
<.05) than the control group (17.924 N). There was no significant difference of the maximal tensile strength (33.674 vs 33.340 N;
P
=.753) between the ultrasound-treated and control groups at 3 weeks postoperatively. In the ultrasound-treated group, the histological study revealed the interface filled with denser granulation tissue and diffuse perpendicular anchored fibers in the 1- and 3-week specimens, and interface new bone formation in the 6- and 12-week specimens. The biomechanical and histological studies demonstrated that the low-intensity pulsed ultrasound enhanced the healing of grafted tendon–to–bone tunnel in the early stages. Our findings indicate that low-intensity pulsed ultrasound is a potentially promising mechanical tool to accelerate early tendon healing to bone tunnel.
Augmentation of Bone Healing by Specific Frequency and Amplitude Compressive Strains
Authors: Shadmehr Azadeh , Esteki Ali , Oliaie Gholam R. , Torkaman Giti , Sabbaghian Alireza
Published: April 2009

A considerable proportion of bone fractures show signs of delayed or impaired healing. A novel device that applies interfragmentary compressive forces to the fracture site was developed and evaluated for its effect on fracture healing.

The midshafts of the right tibias of 16 rabbits were osteotomized, leaving a 2-mm gap. A 4-pin, double-bar external fixator was fixed to the tibias. Interfragmental compressive displacement of 0.5 mm with a frequency of 1 Hz was applied 15 minutes per day. Mechanical stimulation began 1 week postoperatively and continued for 2 and 3 weeks. Control animals received no stimulation. Callus quality and area were assessed by radiographs. Maximum force and total energy absorbed up to failure of the healed bones were determined using a standard 3-point bending test.

Postmortem radiographic examinations showed that mean radiographic measures in both anteroposterior and mediolateral views was significantly larger in experimental groups than controls (
P
=.029). Mechanical measures of the healed bones demonstrated that mean values of maximum force and absorbed energy were significantly higher in the experimental groups than in the control groups (
P
=.029). Both radiographic and mechanical measures were significantly higher after 3 weeks compared to 2 weeks of receiving stimulation (
P
<.05).
ACGME Core Competencies: Where Are We?
Authors: Yaszay Burt , Kubiak Erik , Agel Julie , Hanel Douglas P.
Published: April 2009

Beginning in July 2002, the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) instructed all residency programs to require their residents to demonstrate competency in 6 core areas: patient care, interpersonal and communication skills, medical knowledge, professionalism, practice-based learning, and systems-based practice. The goal was to have objective markers of performance that would serve as a gauge to determine a program's accreditation.

To determine the experiences of orthopedic residency programs with regard to the ACGME's core competencies, a national survey was administered to orthopedic program directors and selected orthopedic residents. Of those orthopedic programs that responded, most appeared to be complying with the ACGME requirements. Both directors and residents thought patient care and medical knowledge ranked most important, while practice-based learning and systems-based practice were assigned the lowest ranks. Barriers to implementation of the core competencies included low priority compared with clinical duties, lack of faculty or resident education, and lack of formal orthopedic core competencies. Residents and program directors agreed that their programs would benefit from a definition of each of the core competencies, including a greater commitment to the processes involved in surgical procedures.

This study demonstrated a commitment to the core competencies by the programs that responded. The survey also suggested this commitment would be aided by improved definitions of some of the competencies for the orthopedic resident.
IL-4 Is Proangiogenic in the Lung under Hypoxic Conditions
Authors: Yamaji-Kegan Kazuyo , Su Qingning , Angelini Daniel J. , Johns Roger A.
Published: April 2009

IL-4-mediated proangiogenic and proinflammatory vascular responses have been implicated in the pathogenesis of chronic lung diseases such as asthma. Although it is well known that hypoxia induces pulmonary angiogenesis and vascular alterations, the underlying mechanism of IL-4 on the pulmonary vasculature under hypoxic conditions remains unknown. In this context, we designed the present study to determine the functional importance of IL-4 for pulmonary angiogenesis under hypoxic conditions using IL-4 knockout (KO) animals. Our results show that hypoxia significantly increased IL-4Rα expression in wild-type (WT) control lungs. Even though hypoxia significantly up-regulated vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor expression in the lungs of both genotypes, hypoxia-induced VEGF, VCAM-1, HIF-1α, and ERK phosphorylation were significantly diminished in IL-4 KO lungs as compared with WT control lungs. In addition, hypoxia-induced pulmonary angiogenesis and proliferating activities in the airway and pulmonary artery were significantly suppressed in IL-4 KO lungs as compared with WT control lungs. We also isolated primary lung fibroblasts from these genotypes and stimulated these cells with hypoxia. Hypoxia-induced VEGF production was significantly suppressed in lung fibroblasts from IL-4 KO mice. These in vitro results are in accordance with the in vivo data. Furthermore, we observed a significant increase of hypoxia-induced pulmonary angiogenesis in STAT6 KO mice similar to that in WT controls. In conclusion, IL-4 has proangiogenic properties in the lung under hypoxic conditions via the VEGF pathway, and this is independent of the STAT6 pathway.