bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and Validity of a 2-Item Screen to Identify Families at Risk for Food Insecurity
Authors: Hager Erin R. , Quigg Anna M. , Black Maureen M. , Coleman Sharon M. , Heeren Timothy , Rose-Jacobs Ruth , Cook John T. , de Cuba Stephanie A. Ettinger , Casey Patrick H. , Chilton Mariana , Cutts Diana B. , Meyers Alan F. , Frank Deborah A.
Published: July 2010

OBJECTIVES:

To develop a brief screen to identify families at risk for food insecurity (FI) and to evaluate the sensitivity, specificity, and convergent validity of the screen.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Caregivers of children (age: birth through 3 years) from 7 urban medical centers completed the US Department of Agriculture 18-item Household Food Security Survey (HFSS), reports of child health, hospitalizations in their lifetime, and developmental risk. Children were weighed and measured. An FI screen was developed on the basis of affirmative HFSS responses among food-insecure families. Sensitivity and specificity were evaluated. Convergent validity (the correspondence between the FI screen and theoretically related variables) was assessed with logistic regression, adjusted for covariates including study site; the caregivers' race/ethnicity, US-born versus immigrant status, marital status, education, and employment; history of breastfeeding; child's gender; and the child's low birth weight status.

RESULTS:

The sample included 30 098 families, 23% of which were food insecure. HFSS questions 1 and 2 were most frequently endorsed among food-insecure families (92.5% and 81.9%, respectively). An affirmative response to either question 1 or 2 had a sensitivity of 97% and specificity of 83% and was associated with increased risk of reported poor/fair child health (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.56; P < .001), hospitalizations in their lifetime (aOR: 1.17; P < .001), and developmental risk (aOR: 1.60; P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS:

A 2-item FI screen was sensitive, specific, and valid among low-income families with young children. The FI screen rapidly identifies households at risk for FI, enabling providers to target services that ameliorate the health and developmental consequences associated with FI.
Technique for Indexing an Immediate Loading Implant Position for a Provisional Restoration
Authors: Mazaro José Vitor Quinelli , Pellizzer Eduardo Piza , Verri Fellippo Ramos , Falcón-Antenucci Rosse Mary , Zavanelli Adriana Cristina
Published: July 2010

The transfer of an intraoral implant position to the cast for an immediate loading implant is an important step and may be difficult to achieve with commonly used transfer and impression methods. Thus, the purpose of this report is to describe a technique for the use of a surgical template to transfer the implant position for fabrication of a provisional restoration. This technique simplifies the procedure, eliminates the need for taking an impression, avoids surgical site contamination, and maintains an adequate emergence profile during fabrication of the definitive restoration. An indexing technique for transferring the position of the implant from the treated surface after extraction is described.
Functional Load in Oblique Bicortical Implants: Parasinusal Implants and Palatine Implants
Authors: Morgano Aurelio Tomasi
Published: July 2010

The history of intraosseous implantology, as a whole, begins with the introduction of the Formiggini screw. Single-piece implants were subsequently derived from titanium bars. The intrinsic function of the emerging stump was immediate loading. The great stability of the implant in the bone thus demanded was eventually achieved by means of the self-tapping screw and bicortical support. Oblique implants were subsequently adopted to make the best use of the bone available and to avoid zones at risk, such as the maxillary sinus and the inferior alveolar nerve. Angled stumps on osseointegrated 2-stage implants were also described in the literature. There has since been a switch from sunken to single-stage implants in view of the usefulness of immediate loading. Recent articles have illustrated the use of inclined, nonbicortical implants; these are still placed in the spongy bone.
Survey on passenger loading in the Hong Kong airport terminal
Authors: Chow W. K. , Ng C. M. Y.
Published: July 2010

Emergency evacuation is the main concern in crowded airport terminals. Data on occupant loading are important for designing means of escape. However, very few field survey data on crowded terminals are available in the literature. There are queries concerning whether the data specified in the prescriptive codes are realistic in designing safety systems in modern terminals. More questions have been raised for those terminals using data, such as maximum floor area allowances per occupant, from the prescriptive codes which have not yet been verified for carrying out performance-based fire engineering design. In this study, passenger loading in the Hong Kong airport terminal was investigated. A field survey was carried out, in which the performance-based design was based on the occupant loading factor extracted from the prescriptive codes of Hong Kong. Transient passenger loadings of the airport in different seasons were compiled. The results were used to justify the maximum allowed loadings specified in design codes and standards.
Reconstruction of Posterior Mandibular Alveolar Ridge Deficiencies With the Piezoelectric Hinge–Assisted Ridge Split Technique: A Retrospective Observational Report
Authors: Holtzclaw Dan J. , Toscano Nicholas J. , Rosen Paul S.
Published: July 2010

Background: Reconstruction of alveolar defects in the posterior edentulous mandible can be a difficult task. In addition to complicating anatomic features, such as the inferior alveolar nerve, mental foramen, oblique ridge, and lingual undercut of the mylohyoid ridge, edentulous ridges in the posterior mandible have thicker cortices and decreased volumes of vascular trabecular bone than their maxillary counterparts. Traditionally, these areas have been treated with autogenous block grafts. Significant resorption of these grafts, in combination with patient morbidity at secondary donor sites, has led clinicians to seek alternatives for augmenting the edentulous posterior mandible. The aim of this retrospective consecutive case series is to report on both the technique of the piezoelectric hinge–assisted ridge split procedure for augmenting these sites and the results that were achieved.

Methods: Thirteen patients with 17 horizontal alveolar ridge deficiencies of the posterior mandible were treated with the piezoelectric hinge–assisted ridge split procedure. After an average healing period of 14 weeks, dental implants were placed into the augmented sites. Intrasurgical alveolar ridge measurements taken at the initial surgery and subsequently at the time of implant placement documented the horizontal gains achieved by this procedure.

Results: Overall mean gain in horizontal width was 4.03 mm (± 0.67). For single implant–site augmentations, the mean gain was 3.38 mm (± 0.25). For multiple adjacent implant–site augmentations, mean gain was 4.25 mm (± 0.62). A total of 31 dental implants were successfully placed in all sites and none required additional augmentation procedures. There were no instances of adverse outcomes, such as neurosensory deficits or sequestration of mobilized buccal plates. After a minimum of 6 months of loading, all dental implants have been successful.

Conclusions: This retrospective observational report demonstrates that the piezoelectric hinge–assisted ridge split procedure can achieve substantial gains in horizontal ridge width of the edentulous posterior mandible without associated morbidity. Further prospective and larger observational studies are warranted to see if this is true over a larger patient population and to compare this technique to other more traditionally used approaches.
Effect of Eucalyptus‐Extract Chewing Gum on Oral Malodor: A Double‐Masked, Randomized Trial
Authors: Tanaka Muneo , Toe Masahiro , Nagata Hideki , Ojima Miki , Kuboniwa Masae , Shimizu Katsumasa , Osawa Kenji , Shizukuishi Satoshi
Published: July 2010

Background: Eucalyptus extracts were found to possess an antibacterial activity against some oral pathogens that produce oral malodor compounds in vitro; however, the clinical effects with respect to oral malodor in humans remain unproven. In the present investigation, a randomized clinical study was designed to test the hypothesis that eucalyptus‐extract chewing gum can reduce oral malodor in the general adult population.

Methods: Subjects were randomly assigned to the following three groups: a high‐concentration (0.6% eucalyptus extract) group (n = 32), a low‐concentration (0.4% eucalyptus extract) group (n = 32), and a placebo group (n = 33). The intake period was 12 weeks. The organoleptic score, level of volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs), and tongue‐coating score were recorded at baseline and 4, 8, 12, and 14 weeks. Treatment‐to‐time interactions among groups were evaluated by repeated‐measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by the Games‐Howell pairwise comparison test.

Results: Relative to baseline readings, significant reductions in clinical parameters, including organoleptic and tongue‐coating scores in the high‐ and/or low‐concentration groups, occurred at 4, 8, 12, and 14 weeks (P <0.05). In addition, group–time interactions revealed significant reductions in the organoleptic score, VSCs, and tongue‐coating score in both concentration groups compared to the placebo group (P <0.05).

Conclusions: Eucalyptus‐extract chewing gum had long‐term effects on the olganoleptic score, levels of VSCs, and tongue‐coating score. These findings suggest that eucalyptus‐extract chewing gum may reduce oral malodor by decreasing the accumulation of tongue coating.
Effect of Gas Jet on Agglomeration of Inhalable Particles
Authors: Sun Deshuai , Guo Qingjie
Published: July 2010

The turbulent-induced agglomeration behaviors of inhalable particles were investigated in this paper. A turbulent gas jet was introduced into the particle agglomeration chamber to generate the local turbulent field. Inhalable particles were driven by turbulence to collided and yield agglomeration. The agglomeration efficiency of inhalable particles was determined by the measurement of the particles mass concentration from a cascade impactor and number concentration using a laser particle counter. Experimental findings indicated the mass and number removal efficiency increased with increasing Reynolds number at jet exit and velocity ratio of jet to cross flow. The gas jet at the angle of 90° achieves high removal efficiency. Increasing relative humidity in chamber may improve the aggregate efficiency of particles up to the maximum removal. Increasing initial concentration of fly ash causes decreasing removal efficiency of inhalable particles. The single-stage removal efficiency revealed that particle diameter had an influence on the agglomeration process. For inhalable particles, the small particles (<1>µm) were easy to be removed in turbulent-induced agglomeration, but mid-size particles (1-5µm) were difficult to remove.
Evaluation and Improvement of Total Transfer Capability in an Interconnected Power System
Authors: Dhadbanjan Thukaram , Chintamani Vyjayanthi
Published: July 2010

With deregulation, the total transfer capability (TTC) calculation, which is the basis for evaluating available transfer capability (ATC), has become very significant. Total transfer capability (TTC) is an important index in power markets with large volume of interarea power exchanges and wheeling transactions taking place on hourly basis. Its computation helps to achieve a viable technical and commercial transmission operation. The aim of the paper is to evaluate TTC in the interconnections and also to improve it using reactive optimization technique and unified power flow controller (UPFC) device. TTC computation is carried out considering normal and contingency conditions such as single line, tie line and generator outages. Base and optimized results are presented, and the results show how reactive optimization and UPFC help to improve the system conditions and tie flows. Repeated power flow method is used for transfer capability computation due to its ease of implementation. A case study is carried out on a 72-bus equivalent system, which is a real-life system, a part of Indian Southern grid. The developed procedure is successfully applied to the three-area 72-bus system. Parameters like voltage magnitude, L-index, minimum singular value and MW losses are computed to analyze the system performance.
Optimization of cellulose acrylate and grafted 4-vinylpyridine and 1-vinylimidazole synthesis
Authors: Bojanic Vaso
Published: July 2010

Optimization of cellulose acrylate synthesis by reaction with sodium cellulosate and acryloyl chloride was carried out. Optimal conditions for conducting the synthesis reaction of cellulose acrylate were as follows: the molar ratio of cellulose/potassium-t-butoxide/acryloyl chloride was 1:3:10 and the optimal reaction time was 10 h. On the basis of elemental analysis with optimal conditions for conducting the reaction of cellulose acrylate, the percentage of substitution of glucose units in cellulose Y = 80.7%, and the degree of substitution of cellulose acrylate DS = 2.4 was determined. The grafting reaction of acrylate vinyl monomers onto cellulose in acetonitrile with initiator azoisobutyronitrile (AIBN) in a nitrogen atmosphere was performed, by mixing for 5 h at acetonitrile boiling temperature. Radical copolymerization of synthesized cellulose acrylate and 4-vinylpyridine, 1-vinylimidazole, 1-vinyl-2-pyrrolidinone and 9-vinylcarbazole, cellulose-poly-4-vinylpyridine (Cell-PVP), cellulose-poly-1- vinylimidazole (Cell-PVIm) and cellulose-poly-1-vinyl-2-pyrrolidinone (Cell-P1V2P) and cellulose-poly-9-vinylcarbazole (Cell-P9VK) were synthesized. Acrylate cellulose and cellulose grafted copolymers were confirmed by IR spectroscopy, based on elementary analysis and the characteristics of grafted copolymers of cellulose were determined. The mass share of grafted copolymers, X, the relationship of derivative parts/cellulose vinyl group, Z, and the degree of grafting copolymers of cellulose (mass%) were determined. In reaction of methyl iodide and cellulose-poly-4-vinylpyridine (Cell-PVP) the cellulose-1-methyl-poly-4-vinylpyridine iodide (Cell-1-Me-PVPJ) was synthesized. Cellulose acrylate and grafted copolymers were obtained with better thermal, electrochemical and ion-emulation properties for bonding of noble metals Au, Pt, Pd from water solutions. The synthesis optimization of cellulose acrylate was applied as a model for the synthesis of grafted lignin copolymers and grafted tannin polymers with vinyl monomers.
Diradical character of some fluoranthenes
Authors: Markovic Svetlana , Djurdjevic Jelena , Jeremic Svetlana , Gutman Ivan
Published: July 2010

It is shown that some Kekul?an fluoranthenes are diradicals and that their ground state is a triplet. In the energetically less favorable singlet state, these hydrocarbons also exhibit pronounced diradical character. The diradical character y of the compounds under investigation was estimated using the unrestricted symmetry-broken (yPUHF) and complete active space (yNOON) methods. It was found that the yPUHF values better reproduce the diradical character of the investigated hydrocarbons. It was shown that the SOMO and SOMO-1 of a diradical structure occupy different parts of space with a small shared region, resulting in a spin density distribution over the entire molecule. The spatial diradical distribution in the singlet diradical structures was examined by inspecting the HOMOs and LUMOs for a and ? spin electrons. It was shown that the ?-HOMO and the ?-LUMO (as well as the ?-HOMO and the ?-LUMO) occupy practically the same part of space. In this way, there are no unpaired electrons in a singlet diradical structure, yet two of them occupy different parts of space, thus allowing the ?-electrons to delocalize.
The electrochemical properties of carbon nanotubes and carbon XC-72R and their application as Pt supports§
Authors: Obradovic Maja
Published: July 2010

The results of an investigation of two samples of commercial multi-walled carbon nanotubes and a sample of carbon black, in the raw and activated state, were presented in the lecture. The activation of the carbon materials led to the formation of an abundance of oxygencontaining functional groups on the surface, an increased electrochemically active surface area, an enhanced charge storage ability and a promotion of the electron-transfer kinetics. It was presented that the morphology of the carbon nanotubes is important for the electrochemical properties, because nanotubes with a higher proportion of edge and defect sites showed faster electron transfer and pseudocapacitive redox kinetics. Modification of oxidized nanotubes by ethylenediamine and wrapping by poly(diallyldimethylammonium) chloride led to a decrease in the electrochemically active surface area and to reduced electron-transfer kinetics. Pt nanoparticles prepared by the microwave-assisted polyol method were deposited at the investigated carbon materials. A much higher efficiency of Pt deposition was observed on the modified CNTs than on the activated CNTs. The activity of the synthesized catalyst toward electrochemical oxygen reduction was almost the same as the activity of the commercial Pt/XC-72 catalyst.
Influence of mechanical activation on microstructure and crystal structure of sintered MgO-TiO2 system
Authors: Filipovic S. , Obradovic N. , Pavlovic V.B. , Markovic S. , Mitric M. , Ristic M.M.
Published: July 2010

Mixtures of MgO-TiO2 were mechanically activated using high-energy planetary ball mill during 5, 10, 20, 40, 80 and 120 minutes. Sintering process was preformed in air at 1100o-1400oC for 2h. The decrease in powder?s particle size was noticed as the time of mechanical activation increased and confirmed by particle size analyzer. XRD analyses were performed in order to acquire the information about phase composition. Different ratio mixtures of MgTiO3 and Mg2TiO4 are present within all sintered samples. The effect of tribophysical activation on microstructure was investigated by scanning electron microscopy. The differential thermal gravimetric analysis has been performed in order to investigate thermal behaviour of the mixtures.
Expression of Toll-like receptors 2 and 4 in stifle joint synovial tissues of dogs with or without osteoarthritis
Authors: Kuroki Keiichi , Stoker Aaron M. , Sims Hannah J. , Cook James L.
Published: July 2010

Objective—To investigate the presence or absence of Toll-like receptor (TLR)-2 and TLR-4 in synovial tissues collected from stifle joints (SJs) of dogs with or without osteoarthritis.

Animals—21 purpose-bred research dogs, 3 client-owned dogs with SJ osteoarthritis, and 3 dogs without SJ osteoarthritis.

Procedures—Research dogs underwent arthroscopic surgery in 1 SJ to induce osteoarthritis via cranial cruciate ligament transection (CrCLt; n = 5), femoral condylar articular cartilage groove creation (6), or release of the caudal horn of the medial meniscus (5); 5 dogs underwent sham surgery. Synovial tissue specimens were obtained from both stifle joints of each dog 12 weeks after surgery, and TLR-2 and TLR-4 gene expression were determined via real-time reverse transcription PCR assays. Expression of TLR-4 protein was determined via an immunofluorescence technique in additional specimens obtained from osteoarthritic SJs of dogs with cranial cruciate ligament insufficiency and from dogs with nonosteoarthritic SJs.

Results—Synovial tissues from CrCLt-treated joints had significantly higher TLR-4 gene expression, compared with the contralateral control SJs or any other joint group. TLR-2 gene expression did not differ significantly among groups. Toll-like receptor-4 protein was detected in synovial tissues of osteoarthritic SJs but was rarely evident in nonosteoarthritic SJs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Increased TLR-4 gene expression in the synovial tissue of SJs with osteoarthritis secondary to CrCLt suggests that activation of innate immunity may play a role in the pathophysiology of SJ osteoarthritis in at least a subset of dogs.
Comparison of macrostructural and microstructural bone features in Thoroughbred racehorses with and without midbody fracture of the proximal sesamoid bone
Authors: Anthenill Lucy A. , Gardner Ian A. , Pool Roy R. , Garcia Tanya C. , Stover Susan M.
Published: July 2010

Objective—To compare macrostructural and microstructural features of proximal sesamoid bones (PSBs) from horses with and without PSB midbody fracture to gain insight into the pathogenesis of PSB fracture.

Sample Population—PSBs from 16 Thoroughbred racehorses (8 with and 8 without a PSB midbody fracture).

Procedures—Parasagittal sections of fractured and contralateral intact PSBs from horses with a PSB fracture and an intact PSB from age- and sex-matched control horses without a PSB fracture were evaluated for visual, radiographic, microradiographic, histologic, and his-tomorphometric differences in bone porosity, vascular channels, heme pigment, trabecular anisotropy, and pathological findings.

Results—Fractured PSBs and their contralateral intact PSBs had more compacted trabecular bone than did control PSBs. Focal repair or remodeling was evident in the palmar aspect of many fractured and contralateral intact PSBs. Fracture coincided with microstructural features and propagated from the flexor to the articular surface.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Fractured PSBs had adapted to high loading but had focal evidence of excessive remodeling and porosity that likely predisposed the horses to complete fracture and catastrophic injury. Detection of focal injury before complete fracture provides an opportunity for prevention of catastrophic injury. Development of diagnostic imaging methods to assess porosity of PSBs may help to identify at-risk horses and allow for modifications of training and racing schedules to reduce the incidence of PSB fracture in Thoroughbred racehorses.
Comparison of five radiographic views for assessment of the medial aspect of the humeral condyle in dogs with osteochondritis dissecans
Authors: Chanoit Guillaume , Singhani Nikita N. , Marcellin-Little Denis J. , Osborne Jason A.
Published: July 2010

Objective—To compare 5 radiographic views for the detection of osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) in dogs with signs of elbow joint pain.

Animals—53 dogs (100 elbow joints) with forelimb lameness and signs of elbow joint pain.

Procedures—Mediolateral (ML), flexed ML, craniocaudal (CC), craniolateral-caudomedial oblique (Cr15L-CdMO), and distomedial-proximolateral oblique (Di35M-PrLO) radiographic views of the 100 elbow joints were obtained. Four examiners graded radiographs with regard to elbow joint OCD. Joints were assessed by use of arthroscopy. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, kappa measure of agreement, and Fisher exact tests for association between median diagnostic value and actual status were computed.

Results—47 joints had an abnormal medial aspect of the humeral condyle (MAHC), and among them, 11 had OCD. The presence of fractures of the medial coronoid process was significantly and positively correlated with the presence of abnormalities of the MAHC (r = 0.40), but was negatively correlated with the presence of OCD (r = −0.32). At 95% specificity, median sensitivities to detect OCD were 57% for Cr15L-CdMO, 56% for CC, 10% for flexed ML, 7% for ML, and 4% for Di35M-PrLO views. The areas under the ROC curves were significantly larger for the Cr15L-CdMO and CC views than for the ML, flexed ML, and Di35M-PrLO views for the detection of OCD. Only the Cr15L-CdMO and CC views allowed accurate detection of OCD.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In dogs with signs of elbow joint pain, the Cr15L-CdMO view is excellent and the CC view was good for detection of OCD.
Radiographic evaluation of the types of tooth resorption in dogs
Authors: Peralta Santiago , Verstraete Frank J. M. , Kass Philip H.
Published: July 2010

Objective—To determine the prevalence of tooth resorption in dogs and to evaluate whether a classification system for tooth resorption in humans is applicable in this species.

Animals—224 dogs > 1 year old admitted for periodontal treatment or other dental procedures in 2007

Procedures—Full-mouth radiographs of all dogs were reviewed for evidence of tooth resorption. Tooth resorption was classified in accordance with radiographic criteria described for use in humans. Patient signalment and concurrent dental conditions were recorded and tabulated.

Results—Tooth resorption was detected in 120 of 224 (53.6%) dogs and 943 of 8,478 (11.1%) teeth. The classification system for use in humans was applicable in 908 of 943 (96.3%) affected teeth. Tooth resorption was more frequent among older and large-breed dogs; no significant differences were found among sex categories. The 2 most common types of tooth resorption were external replacement resorption (77/224 [34.4%] dogs and 736/8,478 [8.7%] teeth) and external inflammatory resorption (58/224 [25.9%] dogs and 121/8,478 [1.4%] teeth). External cervical root surface resorption was detected in 13 of 224 (5.8%) dogs; external surface resorption was detected in 10 of 224 (4.5%) dogs, and internal inflammatory resorption and internal surface resorption were detected in 9 of 224 (4.0%) and 1 of 224 (0.4%) dogs, respectively. Internal replacement resorption was not detected.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The classification of tooth resorption in humans was applicable to tooth resorption in dogs. Resorption lesions, in general, and external replacement and external inflammatory resorption, in particular, were frequently detected in dogs.
Biological activity of gemcitabine against canine osteosarcoma cell lines in vitro
Authors: McMahon Melanie B. , Bear Misty D. , Kulp Samuel K. , Pennell Michael L. , London Cheryl A.
Published: July 2010

Objective—To evaluate in vitro biological activity of gemcitabine, alone and in combination with Pamidronate or carboplatin, against canine osteosarcoma (OSA) cell lines.

Sample Population—In vitro cultures of OSA cell lines OSA8, OSA16, OSA32, and OSA36.

Procedures—Cell lines were treated with gemcitabine alone or in combination with pamidronate or carboplatin. Cell viability was assessed with the water soluble tetrazolium-1 (WST-1) assay, cell cycle distribution was evaluated by means of propidium iodide staining, and apoptosis was assessed by measuring caspase-3/7 activity. Synergy was quantified by use of combination index (CI) analysis.

Results—For all of the cell lines, treatment with gemcitabine induced growth inhibition, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis. No synergistic or additive activity was identified when OSA cell lines were treated with gemcitabine in combination with pamidronate. However, when OSA cell lines were treated with gemcitabine in combination with carboplatin, a significant decrease in cell viability was observed, compared with treatment with carboplatin alone, and the drug combination was determined to be synergistic on the basis of results of CI analysis. For 3 of the 4 cell lines, this activity was greater when cells were treated with carboplatin prior to gemcitabine rather than with gemcitabine prior to carboplatin.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Gemcitabine exhibited biological activity against canine OSA cell lines in vitro, and a combination of gemcitabine and carboplatin exhibited synergistic activity at biologically relevant concentrations. Findings support future clinical trials of gemcitabine alone or in combination with carboplatin for the treatment of dogs with OSA.
Pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic evaluation of clopidogrel and the carboxylic acid metabolite SR 26334 in healthy dogs
Authors: Brainard Benjamin M. , Kleine Stephanie A. , Papich Mark G. , Budsberg Steven C.
Published: July 2010

Objective—To determine pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties of clopidogrel and the metabolite SR 26334 in dogs.

Animals—9 mixed-breed dogs.

Procedures—8 dogs received clopidogrel (mean ± SD 1.13 ± 0.17 mg/kg, PO, q 24 h) for 3 days; 5 of these dogs subsequently received a lower dose of clopidogrel (0.5 ± 0.18 mg/kg, PO, q 24 h) for 3 days. Later, 5 dogs received clopidogrel (1.09 ± 0.12 mg/kg, PO, q 24 h) for 5 days. Blood samples were collected for optical platelet aggregometry, citrated native and platelet mapping thrombelastography (TEG), and measurement of plasma drug concentrations. Impedance aggregometry was performed on samples from 3 dogs in each 3-day treatment group.

Results—ADP-induced platelet aggregation decreased (mean ± SD 93 ± 6% and 80 ± 22% of baseline values, respectively) after 72 hours in dogs in both 3-day treatment groups; duration of effect ranged from > 3 to > 7 days. Platelet mapping TEG and impedance aggregometry yielded similar results. Citrated native TEG was not different among groups. Clopidogrel was not detected in any samples; in dogs given 1.13 ± 0.17 mg/kg, maximum concentration of SR 26334 (mean ± SD, 0.206 ± 0.2 μg/mL) was detected 1 hour after administration.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Clopidogrel inhibited ADP-induced platelet aggregation in healthy dogs and may be a viable antiplatelet agent for use in dogs.

Impact for Human Medicine—Pharmacodynamic effects of clopidogrel in dogs were similar to effects reported in humans; clopidogrel may be useful in studies involving dogs used to investigate human disease.
Renal and cardiorespiratory effects of treatment with lactated Ringer's solution or physiologic saline (0.9% NaCl) solution in cats with experimentally induced urethral obstruction
Authors: Cunha Marina G. M. C. M. , Freitas Gabrielle C. , Carregaro Adriano B. , Gomes Kleber , Cunha Joäo P M. C. M. , Beckmann Diego V. , Pippi Ney L.
Published: July 2010

Objective—To compare the renal and cardiorespiratory effects of IV treatment with lactated Ringer's solution (LRS) or physiologic saline (0.9% NaCl) solution (PSS) in severely decompensated cats with urethral obstruction (UO).

Animals—14 cats (4 cats were used only to establish infusion rates).

Procedures—An occluded urethral catheter was used to induce UO in each cat. After development of severe metabolic acidosis, hyperkalemia, and postrenal azotemia, the obstruction was relieved (0 hours); LRS or PSS (5 cats/group) was administered IV (gradually decreasing rate) beginning 15 minutes before and continuing for 48 hours after UO relief. Ten minutes before urethral catheter placement (baseline), at start of fluid therapy (SFT), and at intervals during fluid administration, various physical and clinicopathologic evaluations were performed.

Results—Metabolic acidosis was detected in the PSS-treated group at SFT and 2 hours after relief of UO and in the LRS-treated group only at SFT The PSS-treated group had significantly lower blood pH and bicarbonate concentrations at 8 through 48 hours and lower base excess values at 2 through 48 hours, compared with the LRS-treated group. Hypocalcemia and hypernatremia were detected in the PSS-treated group at 2 and 12 hours, respectively. Absolute serum potassium and chloride concentrations did not differ significantly between groups at any time point.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Treatment with LRS or PSS appeared to be safe and effective in cats with experimentally induced UO; however, LRS was more efficient in restoring the acid-base and electrolyte balance in severely decompensated cats with UO.
Faculty perspectives regarding the importance and place of nontechnical competencies in veterinary medical education at five North American colleges of veterinary medicine
Authors: Lane India F. , Bogue E. Grady
Published: July 2010

Objective—To explore perceptions of faculty educators regarding the importance of nontechnical competencies in veterinary graduates and the placement of nontechnical competency development in veterinary education.

Design—Survey.

Sample Population—All faculty members at 5 North American veterinary medical institutions.

Procedures—Participants rated the importance of 14 nontechnical competencies and indicated in which phase or phases of veterinary education such competencies should be developed (ie, curriculum placement). Differences in mean ratings were statistically evaluated, as were associations between ratings or curriculum placement and respondent institution, gender, experience, and discipline.

Results—Mean ratings of importance were above neutral for all competencies and were highest for ethical, critical thinking, and interpersonal and intrapersonal competencies; development of these competencies was favored in preveterinary and veterinary training. Ratings were lower for management and business competencies; development of these and other competencies was placed primarily in the clinical phase of the veterinary curriculum. Basic science, nonveterinarian, and junior faculty appeared to more strongly appreciate the importance of nontechnical skills, whereas large animal and midcareer faculty reported a more reserved degree of support. Female faculty were more likely to place nontechnical competency development throughout the educational process.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Participants agreed nontechnical competencies are important for veterinary graduates; however, faculty perceptions differed from previously published findings regarding the relative importance of business and management skills. Those involved in faculty hiring, faculty development, and curricular planning should also be aware of disciplinary and career stage differences affecting faculty perspectives.
Toxic elements content in PM10 samples from a coastal area of the Northern Adriatic Sea
Authors: Cozzi Federico , Adami Gianpiero , Barbieri Pierluigi , Reisenhofer Edoardo , Apostoli Pietro , Bovenzi Massimo
Published: July 2010

PM10 samples were collected during winter and summer seasons at two different sites in the area of Trieste (Italy). The content of As, Cd, Cr, Mn, Ni, Pb and V in the PM10 samples was determined by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry, with the purpose of evaluating the relevance of PM10 inhalation as a route of human exposure to these elements. The results showed that the ambient air concentration of the aforementioned elements were below the limits or target values for both sites and season. Site and season-specific correlation analysis was conducted for the identification of metals with similar origin: very good correlation for the couple Ni-V was found in both sites and seasons, showing the influence of combustion of heavy oils in PM10 composition. The inter-site and seasonal variability of both PM10 and metal concentrations were examined. A stronger impact by the vehicular traffic on the PM10 and metal concentrations was found for the urban site in both seasons. Because of the great importance of the “Bora” wind on the local climate, variability of PM10 and toxic elements concentration with wind were analysed, allowing determination of the effect of wind on dilution of the pollutants for the urban site during both seasons.
Preparation and characterization of high specific surface area Mn3O4 from electrolytic manganese residue
Authors: Peng Tiefeng , Xu Longjun , Chen Hongchong
Published: July 2010

Mn3O4 powders have been produced from Electrolytic Manganese Residue (EMR). After leaching of EMR in sulfuric acid, MnSO4 solution containing various ions was obtained. Purifying the solution obtained and then adding aqueous alkali to the purified MnSO4 solution, Mn(OH)2 was prepared. Two methods were employed to produce Mn3O4. One way was oxidation of Mn(OH)2 in aqueous phase under atmosphere pressure to obtain Mn3O4. The other way was roasting Mn(OH)2 precursors in the range of 500°C to 700°C. The prepared samples were investigated by using several techniques including X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transformation Infra-Red (FTIR) spectra, and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) specific surface area instrument. Particle distribution and magnetic measurements were carried out on laser particle size analyzer, vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). Through XRD, FTIR and determination of total Mn content (TMC), the products prepared were confirmed to be a single phase Mn3O4. BET specific surface areas can reach to 32 m2 g−1. The results indicated that products synthesized by aqueous solution oxidation method had higher specific surface areas and smaller particle size than those prepared by means of roasting. However the products prepared using the above two methods showed no obvious differences in magnetic property.
Isomers in the chemistry of iron coordination compounds
Authors: Melnik Milan , Kohútová Mária
Published: July 2010

The coordination chemistry of iron covers a wide field, as shown by a survey covering the crystallographic and structural data of almost one thousand and three hundred coordination complexes. About 6.7% of these complexes exist as isomers and are summarized in this review. Included are distortion (96.6%) and cis — trans (3.4%) isomers. These are discussed in terms of the coordination about the iron atom, bond length and interbond angles. Distortion isomers, differing only by degree of distortion in Fe-L, Fe-L-Fe and L-Fe-L parameters, are the most common. Iron is found in the oxidation states zero, +2 and +3 of which +3 is most common. The stereochemistry around iron centers are tetrahedral, five — coordinated (mostly trigonal — bipyramid) and six — coordinated. The most common ligands have O and N donor sites.
Three-dimensional Monte Carlo simulations of the dynamics of macromolecular particles in solutions flowing in mesopores
Authors: Atwi Ali , Khater Antoine , Hijazi Abbas
Published: July 2010

Numerical simulations are developed to calculate the dynamic equilibrium probability distribution functions (PDF) for macromolecular rod-like particles suspended in a fluid under hydrodynamic flow inside mesopores. The simulations take into account the effects of Brownian and hydrodynamic forces acting on the particles, as well as diffusive collisions of the particles with the solid surface boundaries. An algorithm is developed for this purpose based on Jeffery’s equations for the dynamics of ellipsoidal objects in bulk fluids, and on a mechanism of restitution for the diffusive collisions. The results are presented with a focus on the depletion layer next to two types of solid boundaries, ideally flat and rough. They demonstrate the significance of numerical simulations in 3D compared to previous results based on a 2D approach. In particular, we are able to obtain a complete topography for the PDFs segmented as a hierarchy in the depletion layer.
Separation and determination of tocopherols in vegetable oils by solid phase extraction on porous polymers SPE cartridges and capillary gas chromatography analysis
Authors: Beldean-Galea Mihail , Horga Cristina , Coman Maria
Published: July 2010

In this study we present the solid phase extraction selectivity of tocopherols from vegetable oils using four porous polymers (Porapak P, Porapak Q, Porapak QS, Porapak N). The tocopherols elution from SPE cartridges was performed using several hexanes:ethyl acetate mixtures (100:0, 95:5, 90:10, 85:15, v/v). Tocopherols (α, γ and δ-tocopherol) were analyzed by gas chromatography without any derivation steep. The amount of NaOH used for triglyceride removal was optimized. Particularly liquid-liquid and solid phase extraction methods for the extraction of tocopherols from vegetable oils were compared. The results confirmed that porous polymers represent promising SPE alternatives for the extraction of tocopherols from oils.
Quality of attractions and the satisfactions, benefits and behavioural intentions of visitors: verification of a model
Authors: Nowacki Marek
Published: July 2010

The study is an attempt to verify a model of the relations between motivation, quality of attraction, benefits, satisfaction and the behavioural intentions of visitors to tourism attractions. The data for the analysis was collected from 582 visitors during the 10th Archaeological Festival at Biskupin. It was noted that the effect of the quality of the attraction on behavioural intentions leads to the benefits gained by the visitors. Benefits have a stronger total effect on behavioural intentions than visitor satisfaction.
The Role of Caregiver Involvement in Upper-Limb Treatment in Individuals With Subacute Stroke
Authors: Harris Jocelyn E. , Eng Janice J. , Miller William C. , Dawson Andrew S.
Published: July 2010

Background

Initial severity of upper-limb motor impairment and exercise intensity are important predictors of improved upper-limb function during stroke rehabilitation. Initial severity of motor impairment, however, is not modifiable by rehabilitation, and increased one-on-one treatment is not always feasible. Alternative methods to increase intensity and improve upper-limb function are needed.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to examine caregiver involvement in upper-limb treatment as a method to improve upper-limb function.

Design

This study was a secondary analysis of a multi-site randomized controlled trial for upper-limb recovery during subacute inpatient stroke rehabilitation.

Methods

Data from 50 individuals with subacute stroke who were randomly assigned to the experimental group (upper-limb exercise) were used for the analysis. Outcome variables were measured at baseline and at completion of the 4-week intervention. Group comparisons between participants with caregiver support and participants without caregiver support were done using an analysis of variance. Using the Fugl-Meyer Upper-Limb Motor Impairment Scale and time spent in treatment (intensity) as covariates, a multivariate regression analysis was performed to determine the additive value of caregiver support on upper-limb function, as measured by change scores on the Chedoke Arm and Hand Activity Inventory and the Motor Activity Log.

Results

Group comparisons revealed that participants with caregiver support had improved upper-limb function compared with those without caregiver support and were more likely to increase the amount of time spent doing exercise. The multiple regression analysis showed that Fugl-Meyer score, treatment intensity, and caregiver support were significant predictors of upper-limb improvement (R2=.240–.292). In the regression models, caregiver support accounted for 5% to 9% of upper-limb improvement.

Limitations

Support was coded as a dichotomous variable, and thus the degree of support or qualitative nature of support was not captured.

Conclusions

Involvement of caregivers was a determinant of improved upper-limb function over and above initial severity of motor impairment and exercise intensity. Further research is needed to determine the optimal qualitative and quantitative elements of caregiver involvement in stroke rehabilitation in order to maximize results.
Development of a Computerized Adaptive Test for Assessing Balance Function in Patients With Stroke
Authors: Hsueh I-Ping , Chen Jyun-Hong , Wang Chun-Hou , Chen Cheng-Te , Sheu Ching-Fan , Wang Wen-Chung , Hou Wen-Hsuan , Hsieh Ching-Lin
Published: July 2010

Background

An efficient and precise measure of balance is needed to improve administration efficiency and to reduce the assessment burden for patients.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to develop a computerized adaptive testing (CAT) system for assessing balance function in an efficient, reliable, and valid fashion in patients with stroke.

Design

Two cross-sectional prospective studies were conducted.

Setting

This study was conducted in the departments of physical medicine and rehabilitation in 6 hospitals.

Patients

The participants were inpatients and outpatients who were receiving rehabilitation.

Measurements

A balance item pool (41 items) was developed on the basis of predefined balance concepts, expert opinions, and field testing. The items were administered by 5 raters to 764 patients. An item response theory model was fit to the data, and the item parameters were estimated. A simulation study was used to determine the performance (eg, reliability, efficiency) of the Balance CAT. The Balance CAT and the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) then were tested on another independent sample of 56 patients to determine the concurrent validity and time needed for administration.

Results

Seven items did not meet the model's expectations and were excluded from further analysis. The remaining 34 items formed the item bank of the Balance CAT. Two stopping rules (ie, reliability coefficient >0.9 or ≤6 items) were set for the CAT. The simulation study showed that the patients' balance scores estimated by the CAT had an average reliability value of .94. The scores obtained from the CAT were closely associated with those of the full item set (Pearson r=.98). The scores of the Balance CAT were highly correlated with those of the BBS (Pearson r=.88). The average time needed to administer the Balance CAT (83 seconds) was only 18% of that of the BBS.

Limitations

The convenience sampling of both samples may limit the generalization of the results. Further psychometric investigation of the Balance CAT is needed.

Conclusion

The results provide strong evidence that the Balance CAT is efficient and has reliability and validity for patients with stroke.
Quantifying Self-Report Measures' Overestimation of Mobility Scores Postarthroplasty
Authors: Stratford Paul W. , Kennedy Deborah M. , Maly Monica R. , MacIntyre Norma J.
Published: July 2010

Background

Self-reports of function may systematically overestimate the ability of patients to move around postarthroplasty.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to estimate the magnitude of systematic differences in Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS) and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index physical function subscale (WOMAC-PF) scores before and after primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) or total hip arthroplasty (THA) by referencing the values to Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) distances and Timed “Up & Go” Test (TUG) times.

Design

This study was a secondary analysis of data from a prospective cohort study.

Methods

The LEFS, WOMAC, 6MWT, and TUG were administered to 85 patients prearthroplasty and once at 9 to 13 weeks postarthroplasty. Regression analysis was applied using a robust error term for clustered data. With the self-report measures as dependent variables and performance measures, occasion (prearthroplasty or postarthroplasty), and performance measure-by-occasion as independent variables, 3 propositions were examined: (1) the relationship between self-report and performance measures is identical prearthroplasty and postarthroplasty (ie, regression lines are coincident); (2) the relationship differs between occasions, but is consistent (ie, regression lines are parallel); (3) the relationship is not consistent (ie, the regression lines are not parallel).

Results

For all analyses, the results supported the second proposition (ie, the relationship differed between occasions, but was consistent). The systematic differences varied by location of arthroplasty, but were similar for both performance tests. For the LEFS, the difference was approximately 11 points for patients who received TKA and 13 points for patients who received THA. For the WOMAC-PF, the difference was approximately 12 points for patients who received TKA and 19 points for patients who received THA. These differences exceed the minimal clinically important change for an individual patient.

Limitations

The findings are specific to 9 to 13 weeks postarthroplasty.

Conclusion

Dependence on scores of self-report measures alone, without knowledge of the magnitude of the identified systematic differences, will result in overestimating the ability of patients to move around postarthroplasty.