bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sediment and phosphorus transfer in overland flow from a maize field receiving manure
Authors: Withers P.J.A. , Bailey G.A.
Published: February 2009

Abstract. The transfer of suspended sediment (SS) and phosphorus (P) in overland flow from 30 m2 field plots receiving either nil, surface‐applied or incorporated manure (slurry) were monitored to determine the vulnerability of land cropped to continuous forage maize to diffuse pollutant transfer in winter runoff. In the absence of slurry, P export was dominated by particulate forms, with up to 1 t SS ha−1 and 0.75 kg total P ha−1 collected from an individual storm event. Background concentrations of P in soluble (<0.45 μm) form were large (c. 0.5 mg L−1) by eutrophication standards due to the previous build‐up of soil P, and largely independent of SS concentrations. Largest P exports (representing up to 23% of the slurry P applied) were measured when dairy slurry (3–13% dry solids) was surface‐applied. The P mobilized from the slurry accounted for up to 60% of total plot P export, with the majority occurring in a soluble bioavailable form during the first storm event. Initial P concentrations in runoff were in proportion to the amount of slurry P applied and significantly lower where rainfall was delayed after application. In one year, splitting the slurry application (3 × 10 kg ha−1) reduced total P export by 25% compared to a single surface application (30 kg P ha−1). In two years, incorporation of slurry, either by ploughing, or by tine cultivation, reduced the amount of overland flow by 50%, and the amount of P export by up to 60%, compared to the surface‐applied slurry treatments. Timeliness of slurry spreading to avoid periods of wet weather and simple cultivation of maize fields after harvest are practical and effective options to minimize SS and P transfer in land runoff from maize fields. The results also draw attention to the need to grow maize, and apply slurry to fields with a low P loss risk.
Long continued applications of N fertilizer to cereals on sandy loam: grain and straw response to residual N
Authors: Thomsen I.K. , Djurhuus J. , Christensen B.T.
Published: February 2009

Abstract. The residual value of mineral N fertilizer applied in the spring was investigated in a field experiment where four cereals (winter wheat, winter barley, spring barley and spring oats) had been grown at reduced (0.7N), normal (1N) or high (1.3N) N fertilizer rates for 20 to 28 years. The effect of previous N fertilizer dressing was tested in two succeeding years by replacing the original N rate with five test N rates ranging from 0 to 240 kg N ha−1 for winter cereals and 0 to 200 kg N ha−1 for spring cereals. In the first test year, winter wheat grown on plots previously supplied with the high rate of mineral fertilizer (202 kg N ha−1 yr−1) yielded more grain and straw and had a higher total N uptake than wheat on plots previously supplied with the normal (174 kg N ha−1 yr−1) or reduced (124 kg N ha−1 yr−1) rate. The grain yield response and N uptake was not significantly affected by the N supply in the test year. The winter wheat grown in the second test year was unaffected by the previous N supply. Grain and straw yield response and total N uptake for spring barley, winter barley and oats, were almost identical irrespective of the previous N rate.

After 20 to 28 years there were no significant differences in soil C and N (0 to 20 cm) between soil receiving three rates of N fertilizer. Soil from differently fertilized oat plots showed no significant differences in N mineralizing capacity. Nitrate leaching losses from the soils at the three N rates were estimated and the N balances for the 20 to 28 years experimental period calculated. The data indicated a reduction in overall loss of 189 to 466 kg N ha−1 at the normal and high N rates compared with the reduced N rate. We conclude that the N supplying capacity and soil organic matter content of this fertile sandy loam soil under continuous cereal cropping with straw removal was not significantly affected by differences in N fertilizer residues.
Relative efficacy of organic manures on rice production in lateritic soil
Authors: Bhadoria P.B.S. , Prakash Y.S. , Kar S. , Rakshit Amitava
Published: February 2009

Abstract. Field experiments were carried out to evaluate the relative efficacy of organic manures in improving the productivity and pest tolerance of rice growing in a lateritic soil. The effects of three commercial manures: processed city waste (PCW), vermicompost (VC) and oil cake pellets (OCP), were assessed in comparison to farmyard manure (FYM) and inorganic fertilizer all at the same total N applied. Of the organic manures tested, FYM produced the maximum straw and grain yields. Differences in yield among the organic manure treatments were mainly attributed to variation in the amounts of available N, P, K and micronutrients. Effect of manures on soil physical condition was not studied. The uptake of N, P and K by rice plants with FYM was significantly greater than all other commercial manures and inorganic fertilizer. The tolerance of rice plants to attack by pathogens and pests, measured in terms of grain yield was highest in the treatment with FYM. Among the commercial manures PCW showed the greatest promise and emerged as a potential alternative to FYM.
Errors in repeated measurements of soil water content in pots using a ThetaProbe
Authors: Blanc L. , Dick J.McP.
Published: February 2009

Abstract. The accuracy of a ThetaProbe (Delta‐T Devices Ltd, UK) to obtain repeated measures of soil water content in pot plants was tested. This alternative to balance determinations led to a large underestimation of water content, varying from 12.2 to 21.8% of the total water content, depending on soil type.
Global–local interactions: socioeconomic and spatial dynamics in Vietnam's coffee frontier
Authors: AGERGAARD JYTTE , FOLD NIELS , GOUGH KATHERINE V
Published: February 2009

Due to their dependence on a single crop, agricultural frontiers are often considered to be formed through phases of ‘boom and bust’. These phases are closely related to fluctuations in world market prices of the commodity that constitutes the frontier's economic basis. This paper demonstrates how although migration patterns and economic growth are conditioned by world market dynamics, local socioeconomic outcomes within frontier regions are diverse. Frontier formation is far from a homogenous process that slowly incorporates all localities and communities in the same way. Dak Lak Province, in the Central Highlands of Vietnam, produces more than 50% of Vietnam's coffee. As Vietnam is the world's largest exporter of Robusta coffee, Dak Lak is highly embedded in the dynamics of the world coffee market. Planned settlement in Dak Lak started in the 1950s and has continued in phases orchestrated by the state's changing economic, social and political motives. Spontaneous immigration has dominated since the early 1990s when the coffee sector took off and regulations on population mobility were relaxed. This paper shows how household livelihoods differ substantially between four communes in Dak Lak Province due to different combinations of migrant and indigenous groups, the ease of transport to the main urban centres, and the timing of coffee planting in the settlements. These temporal and spatial variations in livelihoods both condition and are conditioned by the organisational set‐up of the local coffee marketing chain.
Initial Evidence on the Role of Accounting Earnings in the Bond Market
Authors: EASTON PETER D. , MONAHAN STEVEN J. , VASVARI FLORIN P.
Published: February 2009

We document that: (1) the incidence of bond trade increases during the days surrounding earnings announcements, (2) there is a bond‐price reaction to the announcement of earnings, and (3) there is a positive association between annual bond returns and both annual changes in earnings and annual analysts' forecast errors. All of these effects are larger when earnings convey bad news or when the underlying bond is more risky. Taken together, our results suggest that the nonlinear payoff structure of bond securities affects the role of accounting earnings in the bond market.
Depreciation Rules and the Relation between Marginal and Historical Cost
Authors: RAJAN MADHAV V. , REICHELSTEIN STEFAN
Published: February 2009

The reported cost of a product frequently contains historical cost components that reflect past investments in productive capacity. We examine a setting wherein a firm makes a sequence of overlapping capacity investments. Earlier research has identified particular accrual accounting (depreciation) rules with the property that, on a per unit basis, the historical cost of a product captures precisely its marginal cost. Relative to this benchmark, we investigate and characterize the direction and magnitude of the bias in reported historical cost that results from alternative depreciation rules, including in particular straight‐line depreciation in conjunction with partial direct expensing. In addition, we demonstrate that for a reasonable range of parameter specifications the resulting bias is rather small. Finally, we apply our framework to two specific settings. First, in a regulatory context, we establish the extent to which the accounting profit margin is indicative of a firm's pricing power in the product market. Second, we model an internal control scenario in which a manager's performance is evaluated using residual income, and identify the distortions in investment levels that result from the use of alternative depreciation rules.
Montelukast inhibits neutrophil pro‐inflammatory activity by a cyclic AMP‐dependent mechanism
Authors: Anderson Ronald , Theron Annette J , Gravett Cornelia M , Steel Helen C , Tintinger Gregory R , Feldman Charles
Published: February 2009

Background and purpose: The objective of this study was to characterize the effects of the cysteinyl leukotriene receptor antagonist, montelukast (0.1–2 µmol·L−1), on Ca2+‐dependent pro‐inflammatory activities, cytosolic Ca2+fluxes and intracellular cAMP in isolated human neutrophils activated with the chemoattractants, N‐formyl‐L‐methionyl‐L‐leucyl‐L‐phenylalanine (1 µmol·L−1) and platelet‐activating factor (200 nmol·L−1).

Experimental approach: Generation of reactive oxygen species was measured by lucigenin‐ and luminol‐enhanced chemiluminescence, elastase release by a colourimetric assay, leukotriene B4and cAMP by competitive binding ELISA procedures, and Ca2+fluxes by fura‐2/AM‐based spectrofluorimetric and radiometric (45Ca2+) procedures.

Key results: Pre‐incubation of neutrophils with montelukast resulted in dose‐related inhibition of the generation of reactive oxygen species and leukotriene B4by chemoattractant‐activated neutrophils, as well as release of elastase, all of which were maximal at 2 µmol·L−1(mean percentages of the control values of 30 ± 1, 12 ± 3 and 21 ± 3 respectively;P < 0.05). From a mechanistic perspective, treatment of chemoattractant‐activated neutrophils with montelukast resulted in significant reductions in both post‐peak cytosolic Ca2+concentrations and store‐operated Ca2+influx. These montelukast‐mediated alterations in Ca2+handling by the cells were associated with a significant elevation in basal cAMP levels, which resulted from inhibition of cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases.

Conclusions and implications: Montelukast, primarily a cysteinyl leukotriene (CysLT1) receptor antagonist, exhibited previously undocumented, secondary, neutrophil‐directed anti‐inflammatory properties, which appeared to be cAMP‐dependent.
Inotropy and L‐type Ca2+current, activated by β1‐ and β2‐adrenoceptors, are differently controlled by phosphodiesterases 3 and 4 in rat heart
Authors: Christ Torsten , Galindo‐Tovar Alejandro , Thoms Marcus , Ravens Ursula , Kaumann Alberto J.
Published: February 2009

Background and purpose: β1‐ and β2‐adrenoceptors coexist in rat heart but β2‐adrenoceptor‐mediated inotropic effects are hardly detectable, possibly due to phosphodiesterase (PDE) activity. We investigated the influence of the PDE3 inhibitor cilostamide (300 nmol·L−1) and the PDE4 inhibitor rolipram (1 µmol·L−1) on the effects of (−)‐catecholamines.

Experimental approach: Cardiostimulation evoked by (−)‐noradrenaline (ICI118551 present) and (−)‐adrenaline (CGP20712A present) through β1‐ and β2‐adrenoceptors, respectively, was compared on sinoatrial beating rate, left atrial and ventricular contractile force in isolated tissues from Wistar rats. L‐type Ca2+‐current (ICa‐L) was assessed with whole‐cell patch clamp.

Key results: Rolipram caused sinoatrial tachycardia. Cilostamide and rolipram did not enhance chronotropic potencies of (−)‐noradrenaline and (−)‐adrenaline. Rolipram but not cilostamide potentiated atrial and ventricular inotropic effects of (−)‐noradrenaline. Cilostamide potentiated the ventricular effects of (−)‐adrenaline but not of (−)‐noradrenaline. Concurrent cilostamide + rolipram uncovered left atrial effects of (−)‐adrenaline. Both rolipram and cilostamide augmented the (−)‐noradrenaline (1 µmol·L−1) evoked increase in ICa‐L. (−)‐Adrenaline (10 µmol·L−1) increased ICa‐Lonly in the presence of cilostamide but not rolipram.

Conclusions and implications: PDE4 blunts the β1‐adrenoceptor‐mediated inotropic effects. PDE4 reduces basal sinoatrial rate in a compartment distinct from compartments controlled by β1‐ and β2‐adrenoceptors. PDE3 and PDE4 jointly prevent left atrial β2‐adrenoceptor‐mediated inotropy. Both PDE3 and PDE4 reduce ICa‐Lresponses through β1‐adrenoceptors but the PDE3 component is unrelated to inotropy. PDE3 blunts both ventricular inotropic and ICa‐Lresponses through β2‐adrenoceptors.
Anti‐nociceptive properties of the xanthine oxidase inhibitor allopurinol in mice: role of A1adenosine receptors
Authors: Schmidt AP , Böhmer AE , Antunes C , Schallenberger C , Porciúncula LO , Elisabetsky E , Lara DR , Souza DO
Published: February 2009

Background and purpose: Allopurinol is a potent inhibitor of the enzyme xanthine oxidase, used primarily in the treatment of hyperuricemia and gout. It is well known that purines exert multiple effects on pain transmission. We hypothesized that the inhibition of xanthine oxidase by allopurinol, thereby reducing purine degradation, could be a valid strategy to enhance purinergic activity. The aim of this study was to investigate the anti‐nociceptive profile of allopurinol on chemical and thermal pain models in mice.

Experimental approach: Mice received an intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of vehicle (Tween 10%) or allopurinol (10–400 mg kg−1). Anti‐nociceptive effects were measured with intraplantar capsaicin, intraplantar glutamate, tail‐flick or hot‐plate tests.

Key results: Allopurinol presented dose‐dependent anti‐nociceptive effects in all models. The opioid antagonist naloxone did not affect these anti‐nociceptive effects. The non‐selective adenosine‐receptor antagonist caffeine and the selective A1adenosine‐receptor antagonist, DPCPX, but not the selective A2Aadenosine‐receptor antagonist, SCH58261, completely prevented allopurinol‐induced anti‐nociception. No obvious motor deficits were produced by allopurinol, at doses up to 200 mg kg−1. Allopurinol also caused an increase in cerebrospinal fluid levels of purines, including the nucleosides adenosine and guanosine, and decreased cerebrospinal fluid concentration of uric acid.

Conclusions and implications: Allopurinol‐induced anti‐nociception may be related to adenosine accumulation. Allopurinol is an old and extensively used compound and seems to be well tolerated with no obvious central nervous system toxic effects at high doses. This drug may be useful to treat pain syndromes in humans.
Nuclear receptors as therapeutic targets in cholestatic liver diseases
Authors: Zollner Gernot , Trauner Michael
Published: February 2009

Cholestasis results in intrahepatic accumulation of cytotoxic bile acids, which cause liver damage ultimately leading to biliary fibrosis and cirrhosis. Cholestatic liver injury is counteracted by a variety of adaptive hepatoprotective mechanisms including alterations in bile acid transport, synthesis and detoxification. The underlying molecular mechanisms are mediated mainly at a transcriptional level via a complex network involving nuclear receptors including the farnesoid X receptor, pregnane X receptor, vitamin D receptor and constitutive androstane receptor, which target overlapping, although not identical, sets of genes. Because the intrinsic adaptive response to bile acids cannot fully prevent liver injury in cholestasis, therapeutic targeting of these receptors via specific and potent agonists may further enhance the hepatic defence against toxic bile acids. Activation of these receptors results in repression of bile acid synthesis, induction of phases I and II bile acid hydroxylation and conjugation and stimulation of alternative bile acid export while limiting hepatocellular bile acid import. Furthermore, the use of nuclear receptor ligands may not only influence bile acid transport and metabolism but may also directly target hepatic fibrogenesis and inflammation. Many drugs already used to treat cholestasis and its complications such as pruritus (e.g. ursodeoxycholic acid, rifampicin, fibrates) may act via activation of nuclear receptors. More specific and potent nuclear receptor ligands are currently being developed. This article will review the current knowledge on nuclear receptors and their potential role in the treatment of cholestatic liver diseases.
Modelling the interdependence between the stoichiometry of receptor oligomerization and ligand binding for a coexisting dimer/tetramer receptor system
Authors: Rovira X , Vivó M , Serra J , Roche D , Strange PG , Giraldo J
Published: February 2009

Many G protein‐coupled receptors have been shown to exist as oligomers, but the oligomerization state and the effects of this on receptor function are unclear. For some G protein‐coupled receptors, in ligand binding assays, different radioligands provide different maximal binding capacities. Here we have developed mathematical models for co‐expressed dimeric and tetrameric species of receptors. We have considered models where the dimers and tetramers are in equilibrium and where they do not interconvert and we have also considered the potential influence of the ligands on the degree of oligomerization. By analogy with agonist efficacy, we have considered ligands that promote, inhibit or have no effect on oligomerization. Cell surface receptor expression and the intrinsic capacity of receptors to oligomerize are quantitative parameters of the equations. The models can account for differences in the maximal binding capacities of radioligands in different preparations of receptors and provide a conceptual framework for simulation and data fitting in complex oligomeric receptor situations.
Galantamine improves apomorphine‐induced deficits in prepulse inhibition via muscarinic ACh receptors in mice
Authors: Yano K , Koda K , Ago Y , Kobayashi H , Kawasaki T , Takuma K , Matsuda T
Published: February 2009

Background and purpose: Galantamine, a weak acetylcholine esterase (AChE) inhibitor and allosteric potentiator of nicotinic ACh receptors (nAChRs), improves apomorphine‐induced deficits in prepulse inhibition (PPI), sensory information‐processing deficits, via a nAChR‐independent mechanism. The present study examined the role of muscarinic ACh receptors (mAChRs) in the effect of galantamine, and studied the mechanism of galantamine‐induced increases in prefrontal ACh levels in mice.

Experimental approach: Apomorphine (1 mg kg−1) was administered to male ddY mice (9–10 weeks old) to create a PPI deficit model. Extracellular ACh concentrations in the prefrontal cortex were measured byin vivomicrodialysis.

Key results: Galantamine‐ and donepezil‐mediated improvements in apomorphine‐induced PPI deficits were blocked by the preferential M1mAChR antagonist telenzepine. The mAChR agonist oxotremorine also improved apomorphine‐induced PPI deficits. Galantamine, like donepezil, increased extracellular ACh concentrations in the prefrontal cortex. Galantamine‐induced increases in prefrontal ACh levels were partially blocked by the dopamine D1receptor antagonist SCH23390, but not by antagonists of mAChRs (telenzepine) and nAChRs (mecamylamine). Galantamine increased dopamine, but not 5‐HT, release in the prefrontal cortex.

Conclusions and implications: Galantamine improves apomorphine‐induced PPI deficits by stimulating mAChRs through increasing brain ACh levels via a dopamine D1receptor‐dependent mechanism and AChE inhibition.
Competitive Interactions among First‐Year and Second‐Year Plants of the Invasive, Biennial Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata) and Native Ground Layer Vegetation
Authors: Bauer Jonathan T. , Anderson Roger C. , Anderson M. Rebecca
Published: February 2009

We studied the effects of hand weeding of second‐year plants of the biennial garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata) on first‐year plants (seedlings) and native ground layer vegetation. Garlic mustard is a Eurasian species that has invaded deciduous forest ground layers in eastern North America. Treatments consisted of a control and an early or late weeding of second‐year garlic mustard. The early treatment (early March) was applied before garlic mustard seeds had germinated and when most native species were dormant. The late treatment (mid‐May) occurred after plants had bolted, flowering was occurring, and most native species and new garlic mustard seedlings were actively growing. Pre‐treatment data were obtained in 2004 and treated and control plots were sampled in 2005, 2006, and 2007. No significant treatment effects were observed in 2004 or 2005. In 2006, mean cover of first‐year plants was higher in the early weeding treatment than in the late weeding treatment and control. In 2007, mean cover of first‐year garlic mustard was higher in the control than in either of the two weeding treatments. There were no significant treatment effects in any year on native vegetation cover, bare ground, or the five most abundant native species. Our data indicate that (1) late weeding of garlic mustard provided more effective control than early weeding because late weeding allows second‐year plants to compete with garlic mustard seedlings for a longer period of time and (2) competition between first‐ and second‐year plants is responsible for alternating dominance of first‐year and second‐year garlic mustard plants.
Magnetic resonance spectroscopy reveals an epileptic network in juvenile myoclonic epilepsy
Authors: Lin Katia , Carrete Jr Henrique , Lin Jaime , Peruchi Mirella Maccarini , De Araújo Filho Gerardo Maria , Guaranha Mirian Salvadori Bittar , Guilhoto Laura Maria Figueiredo Ferreira , Sakamoto Américo Ceiki , Yacubian Elza Márcia Targas
Published: February 2009

Purpose:  To investigate the cerebral metabolic differences between patients with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME) and normal controls and to evaluate to what extent these metabolic alterations reflect involvement of an epileptic network.

Methods:  Sixty patients with JME were submitted to multi‐voxel proton spectroscopy (1H‐MRS) at 1.5 T over medial prefrontal cortex (MPC), primary motor cortex (PMC), thalamus, striatum, posterior cingulate gyrus (PCG), and insular, parietal, and occipital cortices. We determined ratios for integral values of N‐acetyl‐aspartate (NAA) and glutamate‐glutamine (GLX) over creatine‐phosphocreatine (Cr). The control group (CTL) consisted of 30 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy volunteers.

Results:  The NAA/Cr ratio, a measure of neuronal injury, was reduced in PMC, MPC, and thalamus among patients. In addition, they had an altered GLX/Cr ratio, which is involved in excitatory activity, on PMC, MPC, and PCG, where it was reduced, whereas it was increased on insula and striatum. Multiple regression analysis revealed the strongest correlation between thalamus and MPC, but the thalamus was also correlated with insula, occipital cortex, and striatum among patients. Lower NAA/Cr was observed with advancing age and duration of epilepsy, regardless of frequency of seizures and antiepileptic drug therapy in thalamus and frontal cortex.

Discussion:  The identification of a specific network of neurochemical dysfunction in patients with JME, with diverse involvement of particular structures within the thalamocortical circuitry, suggests that cortical hyperexcitability in JME is not necessarily diffuse, supporting the knowledge that the focal/generalized distinction of epileptogenesis should be reconsidered. Furthermore, evidence is provided toward progressive neuronal dysfunction in JME.
Ketogenic diet in the treatment of refractory continuous spikes and waves during slow sleep
Authors: Nikanorova Marina , Miranda Maria J. , Atkins Mary , Sahlholdt Lene
Published: February 2009

Purpose: To evaluate the effect of the ketogenic diet on electroclinical characteristics and cognitive function in children with continuous spikes and waves during slow sleep (CSWS).

Methods: Five children (four boys, one girl) aged between 8 and 13 years with CSWS refractory to conventional antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), including levetiracetam, and steroids were included. The prospective electroclinical assessment was performed prior to the ketogenic diet and once every 6 months post initiation during the 2‐year period. All children underwent neuropsychological testing prior to the ketogenic diet and four of the children again 12 months after the diet’s introduction. In case 4 the testing has been performed after 7 months and the diet was withdrawn after 9 months because of the lack of efficacy and the parent’s wishes. In two patients the cognitive functions were also evaluated after 24 months since the diet’s initiation. During the period on the ketogenic diet the concomitant AED treatment was unchanged.

Results: Electrographic evaluation after 24 months on the ketogenic diet showed CSWS resolution in one patient, mild decrease of the spike–wave index in one, and lack of response in three patients. The ketogenic diet did not influence the neuropsychological outcome, and intelligence quotient (IQ) scores remained low at the end of the follow‐up period. However, in two patients an improvement in attention and behavior was demonstrated.

Discussion: This is the first study evaluating the efficacy of the ketogenic diet in children with CSWS. Five presented cases were refractory to AEDs and steroids. Only one case responded with complete CSWS disappearance; in one the effect of the ketogenic diet was partial and intermittent, whereas in three patients no response has been observed. These results show that the ketogenic diet did not appear to influence the neuropsychological outcome; however, the absence of a control group makes it impossible to conclude with certainty.
Arthroscopic Documentation of Elbow Cartilage Pathology in Dogs with Clinical Lameness without Changes on Standard Radiographic Projections
Authors: PUNKE JOHN P. , HULSE DON A. , KERWIN SHARON C. , PEYCKE LAURA E. , BUDSBERG STEVEN C.
Published: February 2009

Objective—To document cartilage damage associated with elbow lameness in dogs without radiographic signs.

Study Design—Case series.

Animals—Dogs (n=16).

Methods—Medical records (November 2004–January 2006) of dogs with undiagnosed forelimb lameness localized to the elbow but without radiographic signs that had lesions identified by either computed tomography (CT) or nuclear scintigraphy and confirmed by arthroscopy were included. Signalment, duration of clinical signs before admission, surgical diagnosis, and treatment were recorded.

Results—Sixteen dogs (10 left, 6 right elbows) were identified. Median age was 30.1 months and median duration of clinical signs before admission was 15.6 months. CT or scintigraphy were strongly suggestive of elbow pathology before confirmation by arthroscopy. Medial coronoid pathology was identified in every abnormal elbow and osteochondrosis dissecans in 2 elbows.

Conclusions—Elbow pathology not associated with radiographic changes can be identified by CT and scintigraphy. Coronoid pathology is the most likely diagnosis.

Clinical Relevance—

Absence of radiographic signs in elbows with clinical signs of lameness should be evaluated with advanced imaging techniques (CT, scintigraphy) and arthroscopy to identify the cause of lameness.
Effect of Limb Position on Elbow Congruity with CT Evaluation
Authors: HOUSE MARK R. , MARINO DOMINIC J. , LESSER MARTIN L.
Published: February 2009

Objective—To determine if computed tomographic (CT) measurement of radio‐ulnar congruence (RUC) is affected by limb position.

Study Design—Prospective study.

Animals—Labrador Retrievers (n=10).

Methods—Each dog had both elbows imaged in neutral, supination, and pronation positions using helical CT acquisition, at 1 mm increments, in a transverse plane. RUC was calculated using a previously reported method and a new technique using 3‐D image processing and measurements determined by a coordinate system.

Results—The limits of agreement showed that comparing any pair of elbow positions yielded large discrepancies in measurements with the previously reported technique. Better agreement between pairs of elbow positions with reduced discrepancy was achieved using the 3‐D technique. Variation in antebrachium positioning did yield a difference in congruence.

Conclusions—Limb position (supination, pronation) affects elbow congruity measurements using CT analysis. Use of 3‐D image processing may allow for improved elbow congruity measurements compared with other 2‐D measurement techniques.

Clinical Relevance—

Limb position must be controlled when performing CT evaluation of elbows for incongruity. 3‐D imaging appears to be less affected by limb position than conventional 2‐D analysis when assessing radioulnar incongruence.
Un‐United Medial Epicondyle of the Humerus: Radiographic Prevalence and Association with Elbow Osteoarthritis in a Cohort of Labrador Retrievers
Authors: PASTER ERIN R. , BIERY DARRYL N. , LAWLER DENNIS F. , EVANS RICHARD H. , KEALY RICHARD D. , GREGOR THOMAS P. , McKELVIE PAMELA J. , SMITH GAIL K.
Published: February 2009

Objective—To longitudinally characterize the radiographic appearance of un‐united medial epicondyle (UME) of the humerus, evaluate UME association with osteoarthritis (OA) and consider its relevance to the elbow dysplasia complex.

Study Design—Longitudinal cohort study.

Animals—Labrador retrievers (n=48) from 7 litters.

Methods—Forty‐eight same‐sex littermates were paired for this lifetime feeding study. One of each pair was control‐fed; the pair mate was fed 25% less than the control each day. Elbows of 46 surviving dogs were radiographed at ages 6 and 8 years, and/or at end‐of‐life (EOL). Elbow histopathology was done EOL, although UME lesions were not evaluated histologically.

Results—Seven dogs (15%) had UME, representing 5 litters; 4 were control‐fed, 3 diet‐restricted. Six (86%) dogs had unilateral lesions; 1 was bilateral. UME was evident on craniocaudal (CrCd) radiographic projections by 8 years in all dogs. UME was detected in only 1 elbow by mediolateral radiographic projection. Elbow OA frequency in UME affected dogs was not significantly different from the remaining study population. Histopathologic lesions were bilateral in dogs with unilateral UME.

Conclusions—UME may be more common than previously thought. Most cases were unilateral and diet restriction had no effect on frequency. The CrCd view was critical for diagnosis. Elbow OA was not directly associated with UME.

Clinical Relevance—Infrequent diagnosis of UME could result from infrequent radiography and use of only the flexed lateral radiographic projection required by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals for elbow screening. Like hip evaluations, screening for UME should be continued for life, until genetics are better understood. Lack of association between UME and elbow OA suggests that UME is not likely a component of elbow dysplasia.
Treatment of Incomplete Ossification of the Humeral Condyle with Autogenous Bone Grafting Techniques
Authors: FITZPATRICK NOEL , SMITH THOMAS J. , O'RIORDAN JERRY , YEADON RUSSELL
Published: February 2009

Objective—To report clinical experience with autogenous bone grafting, with and without metallic implants, for treatment of lameness attributed to incomplete ossification of the humeral condyle (IOHC).

Study Design—Case series.

Animals—Dogs (n=8; 9 elbows) with IOHC.

Methods—A transcondylar humeral bone core was removed and the resultant socket grafted using autogenous bone harvested as either free cancellous bone or a corticocancellous dowel using an osteochondral autograph transfer system. In 8 elbows, additional support for the humeral condyle was provided with metallic implants. Postoperative outcome was assessed by clinical, radiographic, computed tomographic (CT) and owner questionnaire examinations in the short and medium term.

Results—Eight dogs (9 elbows) were treated surgically for IOHC. Graft types were free cancellous graft (n=2) or corticocancellous dowel (7). Condylar augmentation was performed using epicondylar cross pins (1); transcondylar Acutrak™(AT) screw and epicondylar cortical screw (1); and a single transcondylar AT screw (7). Lameness resolved in 1–12 weeks. Bone bridging was documented in 7 of 8 elbows assessed by CT examination. Owner questionnaires (6 dogs) assessing daily functions were available for 7 of 9 elbows (follow‐up, 6–45 months). Relevant follow‐up function scores were significantly improved compared with preoperative values. One dog was intermittently lame and was administered nonsteroidal antiinflammatory medication.

Conclusion—Use of autogenous bone grafting techniques leads to resolution of lameness attributed to IOHC. Augmentation of grafts with implants like the AT screw is recommended.

Clinical Relevance—Autogenous bone grafting techniques represent a viable alternative or adjunct to existing techniques for clinical management of IOHC in the dog.
A Longitudinal Study of the Influence of Lifetime Food Restriction on Development of Osteoarthritis in the Canine Elbow
Authors: HUCK JENNIFER L. , BIERY DARYL N. , LAWLER DENNIS F. , GREGOR THOMAS P. , RUNGE JEFFREY J. , EVANS RICHARD H. , KEALY RICHARD D. , SMITH GAIL K.
Published: February 2009

Objective—To report the effects of age and lifetime calorie restriction on development and progression of osteoarthritis (OA) in elbow joints of Labrador retrievers.

Study Design—Longitudinal cohort study.

Animals—Labrador retriever dogs (n=48).

Methods—Puppies from 7 litters were allotted to 2 groups of 24 dogs each. Diet‐restricted (DR) dogs received 25% fewer calories than control‐fed (CF) pair mates. Elbow radiographs were taken at 6 and 8 years of age and end of life (EOL). Gross and histopathologic evaluations for OA occurred at EOL.

Results—There was no statistical difference in radiographic OA frequency between groups at any of the time points. Radiographic OA severity was greater for CF dogs at 6 years only (P<.05). There was no significant difference between feeding groups for histopathologic prevalence or severity of OA. Similarly, there were no differences in gross OA lesions between the groups (P>.05). Fragmented medial coronoid process, un‐united anconeal process, and osteochondrosis were not present in any elbow.

Conclusion—No differences in prevalence or severity of radiographic and histopathologic elbow OA were found between feeding groups. Diet restriction resulted in a 1.8‐year extension in median lifespan but no additional incremental worsening of elbow disease. Evaluation at time points <6 years may have revealed larger differences in OA prevalence and severity between the dietary groups.

Clinical Relevance—These findings support calorie restriction as a clinical tool to slow progression of elbow OA.
Subtotal Coronoid Ostectomy for Treatment of Medial Coronoid Disease in 263 Dogs
Authors: FITZPATRICK NOEL , SMITH THOMAS J. , EVANS RICHARD B. , O'RIORDAN JERRY , YEADON RUSSELL
Published: February 2009

Objective—To document clinical outcomes after subtotal coronoid ostectomy (SCO) for treatment of medial coronoid disease (MCD).

Study Design—Prospective clinical study.

Animals—Dogs (n=263) with MCD.

Methods—MCD was treated by a combination of SCO via mini‐arthrotomy, cage confinement (6 weeks), leash restricted exercise (12 weeks) and pentosan polysulfate administration. Outcomes were assessed by clinical examination in the short‐term (324 elbows), owner questionnaires (146 dogs), clinical examination (90 dogs), subjective assessment of gait (110 elbows) and radiographic examination (180 elbows), 4 months to 7 years 7 months after surgery.

Results—One intraoperative complication occurred (1 elbow with fissuring of the ulna) and 8.2% elbows had immediate postoperative complications, the most common being wound infection (7%). Improvement in subjective lameness assessment to a score of 0 was noted at 5 weeks in 74.4% of elbows (veterinary) and 45.6% (owner) and at 12 weeks in 71.5% (veterinary), and 91.2% (owner). Subjective assessments of outcomes in the medium‐term revealed 81.9% dogs remained sound, with significantly (P<.05) improved daily function scores compared with preoperative values, 83.5% of dogs received no NSAID. Clinical examination revealed good limb function and subjective assessment showed 51% of limbs were free from lameness. Radiographic progression of osteophytosis occurred on average by one grade.

Conclusion—Management of MCD using the described management regime, including SCO via mini‐arthrotomy, deserves consideration and comparison with existing treatment methods.

Clinical Significance—Management of MCD by SCO can be considered when gross fissuring or fragmentation of the MCP is not evident. This technique does not require specialized instrumentation.
Early Clinical Experience with Osteochondral Autograft Transfer for Treatment of Osteochondritis Dissecans of the Medial Humeral Condyle in Dogs
Authors: FITZPATRICK NOEL , YEADON RUSSELL , SMITH THOMAS J.
Published: February 2009

Objective—To establish whether osteochondral autograft transfer (OAT) procedures for osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the canine elbow would restore articular contour, resurface osteochondral defects with hyaline cartilage, and resolve lameness in the short term.

Study Design—Case series.

Animals—Dogs (n=27) with medial humeral condylar OCD.

Methods—After arthroscopic assessment, the medial humeral condyle was exposed by arthrotomy. Medial coronoid disease (MCD) was managed by subtotal coronoid ostectomy, then the OCD lesion debrided and OATS™instrumentation used for resurfacing the defect with osteochondral core grafts collected from the stifle. Recipient sockets were created to maximally resurface OCD lesions. Six elbows also had proximal ulnar osteotomy. Outcomes measures included subjective clinical, radiographic, and arthroscopic examination at 12–18 weeks.

Results—Of 33 treated elbows, 30 also had MCD. Accurate reconstruction of the medial humeral condylar surface was achieved in all joints. Lameness resolved in 3–13 weeks in 26 of 31 limbs with follow‐up. Arthroscopic outcomes for elbows with concomitant MCD but without proximal ulnar osteotomy were variable (14/24 good, 5/24 intermediate, 5/24 poor). Short‐term outcome for OCD without MCD (n=2) and when proximal ulnar osteotomy (n=5) was performed were positive. Long‐term assessments of 7 dogs suggested minimal donor site morbidity.

Conclusions—OAT procedures are technically feasible in the canine elbow. In elbows with concurrent MCD, proximal ulnar osteotomy may improve likelihood of positive clinical outcome.

Clinical Relevance—OAT procedures warrant further evaluation as a treatment option for selected cases of OCD involving the canine medial humeral condyle.
Techniques of Application and Initial Clinical Experience with Sliding Humeral Osteotomy for Treatment of Medial Compartment Disease of the Canine Elbow
Authors: FITZPATRICK NOEL , YEADON RUSSELL , SMITH THOMAS , SCHULZ KURT
Published: February 2009

Objective—To determine medium‐term clinical efficacy of sliding humeral osteotomy (SHO) for treatment of lameness and elbow pain associated with clinically diagnosed elbow disease featuring cartilage eburnation of the medial elbow compartment (medial compartment disease—MCD).

Study Design—Case series.

Animals—Dogs (n=49) with severe or persistent lameness attributable to MCD.

Methods—Signalment, lameness history, and preoperative imaging findings were recorded. A custom, locking, stepped SHO plate was applied to the medial aspect of the humerus, stabilizing a mid‐diaphyseal transverse osteotomy, medially translating the distal segment relative to the proximal segment. Three variants of technique of application were used and outcomes compared between respective patient groups. Outcome measures included lameness scoring, anatomic measures, VAS scoring of elbow pain, and owner assessment of function. Measures recorded preoperatively, 12, and 26 weeks postoperatively were compared.

Results—Of 59 limbs that had SHO, 39 had preoperative focal treatment of the diseased medial aspect of the coronoid process. Mean ± SD dog age was 45.5 ± 37.48 months and body weight ranged from 13.6 to 46.7 kg. Mean preoperative duration of lameness was 14.7 ± 18.50 months. Lameness improved for all limbs by 26 weeks, and resolved in 21/32 limbs. Significant improvements in postoperative elbow pain scores and most owner assessments of function were observed. Incidence of major complications requiring surgical intervention was 17.2%, 22.2%, and 4.8% for each of the 3 technique variants described. Histologic examination of 2 elbows at >12 months revealed fibrocartilage cover of medial aspect of humeral condyle.

Conclusions—Canine SHO with or without focal treatment of the diseased medial aspect of the coronoid process ameliorates lameness and pain associated with MCD at medium‐term follow‐up. Application technique is critical to minimizing morbidity.

Clinical Relevance—SHO is appropriate for clinical management of pain and lameness in select cases of canine MCD.
Nonconstrained Elbow Replacement in Dogs
Authors: CONZEMIUS MIKE
Published: February 2009

Objective—To review development of a nonconstrained total elbow replacement system for use in dogs and report the surgical technique used for implantation.

Study Design—Descriptive report.

Animals—Dogs with chronic elbow osteoarthritis (OA) unresponsive to medical management for at least 1 year.

Methods—A nonconstrained elbow replacement system (radioulnar and humeral components) was developed and used in dogs with medically nonresponsive elbow OA. The components were refined based on evaluation of clinical outcome. Changes in humeral stem design for composite fixation, the contours of the articulating surfaces, and in the humeral component to increase range of motion were incorporated. Drilling and cutting guides were developed to facilitate accuracy of implantation.

Results—With component refinement, more favorable long‐term functional outcome was achieved.

Conclusions—Design improvements incorporated into the elbow replacement system should increase treatment success.

Clinical Relevance—Total elbow replacement in dogs is possible and good long‐term outcome can be achieved.
A Human Factors Engineering Implementation Program Used on Offshore Installations
Authors: McSWEENEY KEVIN P. , De KOKER THEO , MILLER GERRY
Published: February 2009

This paper discusses a practical and successful approach for Human Factors Engineering (HFE) Implementation Program (HFEIP) development and integration in the design of offshore installations. This HFEIP strategy has evolved over many years with numerous successes in the offshore industry. This paper focuses on:

The different tasks that should be included in an HFEIP.

Examples of the application of the different tasks in the HFEIP.

HFEIP lessons learned.

Note: The examples of the application of the HFEIP Program tasks in this paper have been reported by the HFE professionals principally responsible for the development of the HFEIP described herein. The examples are from current and past experiences involving major offshore Engineering, Procurement, Construction, and Installation projects. These projects include but are not limited to: Tension Leg Platforms, Spar's, and a Floating Platform for Storage and Offloading unit.
Intelligent Ship Arrangements: A New Approach to General Arrangement
Authors: PARSONS MICHAEL G. , CHUNG HYUN , NICK ELEANOR , DANIELS ANTHONY , LIU SU , PATEL JIGNESH
Published: February 2009

A new surface ship general arrangement optimization system developed at the University of Michigan is described. The Intelligent Ship Arrangements system is a native C++, Leading Edge Architecture for Prototyping Systems–compatible software system that will assist the designer in developing rationally based arrangements that satisfy design specific needs as well as general Navy requirements and standard practices to the maximum extent practicable. This software system is intended to be used following or as a latter part of ASSET synthesis. The arrangement process is approached as two essentially two‐dimensional tasks. First, the spaces are allocated to Zone‐decks, one deck in one vertical zone, on the ship's inboard profile. Then the assigned spaces are arranged in detail on the deck plan of each Zone‐deck in succession. Consideration is given to overall location, adjacency, separation, access, area requirements, area utilization, and compartment shape. The system architecture is quite general to facilitate its evolution to address additional design issues, such as distributive system design, in the future.
Managing the Operational Constraints in Ship Machinery Design and Installation: Synthesis of Design‐Based Failures for Improving the Structural Quality of Shipboard Systems
Authors: CELIK METIN
Published: February 2009

Although the relevant standards, technical innovations, international rules, and safety‐related regulations enforce the shipbuilding industry to improve the design and structural quality of the merchant ships, there are still many design‐based failures that are being encountered by operators during the service period. Design‐based failures that have an influence on the technical performance and operational efficiency cause minor or catastrophic consequences, increase human errors, and impair safety on board ships. This paper mainly focuses on examining the potential causes and effects of design‐based deficiencies in ship machinery space on board merchant ships by referring to the outcomes of experimental surveys, ship deficiency reports, and marine accident statistics. In addition, a shipyard‐centered information network on monitoring design‐based failures is proposed for managing the gaps between designers, operators, and equipment manufacturers. It encourages the shipyard organizations to enhance the design and structural quality of the shipboard systems.