bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experiments to confront the environmental extremes of climate change
Authors: Kayler Zachary E , De Boeck Hans J , Fatichi Simone , Grünzweig José M , Merbold Lutz , Beier Claus , McDowell Nathan , Dukes Jeffrey S
Published: May 2015

Extreme climate conditions can dramatically alter ecosystems and are expected to become more common in the future; however, our understanding of species and ecosystem responses to extreme conditions is limited. We must meet this challenge by designing experiments that cover broad ranges of environmental stress, extending to levels well beyond those observed currently. Such experiments are important because they can identify physiological, community, and biogeochemical thresholds, and improve our understanding of mechanistic ecological responses to climate extremes. Although natural environmental gradients can be used to observe a range of ecological responses, manipulation experiments – including those that impose drought and heat gradients – are necessary to induce variation beyond common limits. Importantly, manipulation experiments allow for determination of the cause and effect of species and ecosystem threshold responses. We present a rationale and recommendations for conducting extreme experiments that extend beyond the historical and even the predicted ranges of environmental conditions.
Nursing Educational Motivation and Barriers Inventory
Authors: Alamri Majed , Sharts-Hopko Nancy
Published: May 2015

Background and Purpose: The major purposes of the study are revision of the Nursing Educational Motivation and Barriers Inventory (NEMBI) and translation of it into Arabic. Methods: NEMBI was translated into Arabic, then back-translated to ensure the accuracy of the translation. The translation and back-translation of NEMBI were accurate and identical. A panel of experts provided content validation. Reliability was evaluated in a pilot test. For the larger study, 158 Saudi nurses completed the NEMBI. Results: Exploratory factor analysis yielded 8 factors. NEMBI is a valid and reliable tool for use in Arabic-speaking populations. Conclusion: As nursing education is transformed in Arabic-speaking norms, this tool provides a valid and reliable means for examining motivational factors that influence nurses’ decision to return to school to advance their education.
Psychometric Properties of the Patient’s Perception of Life on Hemodialysis Scale
Authors: Twomey J. Creina , Barrett Brendan J. , Way Christine Y. , Churchill David N. , Parfrey Patrick S.
Published: May 2015

Background and Purpose: Hemodialysis (HD) is the main form of renal replacement therapy for many patients with end-stage renal disease. The purpose of this research is to assess reliability and validity of the Patient’s Perception of Hemodialysis Scale. Methods: Using a cross-sectional design and a convenient sample (n = 236), psychometric properties of the PPHS were examined. Validity was assessed using factor analysis and Pearson’s correlation. Reliability was determined using Cronbach’s alpha and test–retest stability (n = 30). Results: Validity and reliability was supported. Conclusion: Examination of the PPHS provides evidence that it is a valid and reliable instrument for measuring disease-specific concerns with the HD patients, assessing how people experience life, and identifying ways in which people interpret the meaning of their physical and psychosocial health and adaptation to life on HD.
Psychometric Properties of the Swedish Version of the Self-Transcendence Scale Among Very Old People
Authors: Lundman Berit , Årestedt Kristofer , Norberg Astrid , Norberg Catharina , Fischer Regina Santamäki , Lövheim Hugo
Published: May 2015

Background and Purpose: This study tested the psychometric properties of a Swedish version of the Self-Transcendence Scale (STS). Methods: Cohen’s weighted kappa, agreement, absolute reliability, relative reliability, and internal consistency were calculated, and the underlying structure of the STS was established by exploratory factor analysis. There were 2 samples available: 1 including 194 people aged 85–103 years and a convenience sample of 60 people aged 21–69 years. Results: Weighted kappa values ranged from .40 to .89. The intraclass correlation coefficient for the original STS was .763, and the least significant change between repeated tests was 6.25 points. Conclusion: The revised STS was found to have satisfactory psychometric properties, and 2 of the 4 underlying dimensions in Reed’s self-transcendence theory were supported.
Subsurface Water Retention Technology Improves Root Zone Water Storage for Corn Production on Coarse‐Textured Soils
Authors: Guber Andrey K , Smucker Alvin J. M. , Berhanu Samrawi , Miller James M. L.
Published: May 2015

Subsurface water retention technology (SWRT) is a new, long‐term approach developed to improve water storage capacities of sandy soils for sustainable crop production. It consists of subsurface polyethylene membranes installed within the soil profile that prevent the loss of irrigation water via deep percolation. Our objective was to identify membrane shape and placement to maximize the reduction in irrigation losses. A greenhouse experiment was conducted to measure the distribution of water in a surface‐irrigated sand lysimeter with six membranes of different geometry installed at four depths. The HYDRUS‐2D model was calibrated using soil water content data to estimate water losses from four soils modified with SWRT membranes. Membranes with 2:1, 3:1, and 5:1 aspect ratios installed at the 20‐ and 40‐cm depths in sand, sandy loam, loamy sand, and sandy loam soils were used in the simulations. Different vertical and horizontal alignments were also tested for the 2:1 membrane aspect ratio. The HYDRUS‐2D model adequately described the dynamics of water content measured in the lysimeter experiment. The simulation results showed that the highest reductions in water loss for most studied soil textures were achieved with a 2:1 aspect ratio membrane installed at the 20‐cm depth. The SWRT was sensitive to excessive irrigation, and its performance declined rapidly in response to overirrigation. Our modeling results demonstrated a high potential for the SWRT to reduce water losses from the plant root zone. Further testing of membrane performance is needed for different crops in real soils across a range of different climates.
Lenzini Steel: The Impact of Transfer Pricing and Taxes on International Operations
Authors: Cripe Bradrick M. , Harmon Anthony , West Timothy D.
Published: May 2015

Lenzini Steel is an inter-disciplinary case that uses four inter-company transactions (ICTs) to demonstrate how the cost/managerial concept of transfer pricing can impact financial and/or tax disclosures on an international stage. The goal is to strengthen students' managerial/cost accounting, tax, and/or financial accounting skills by asking them to examine a transfer pricing case from the different technical perspectives. The case tells the story of an Italian parent company with significant cash flow inflexibility. It needs an infusion of cash from its U.S.-based subsidiary to remain viable, while limiting tax exposure. Students may face any or all of these issues: (1) How can the parent company best obtain the cash it so urgently needs? (2) What are the tax consequences of management's decisions to obtain this cash? (3) What are the financial accounting implications of these decisions? (4) How will they communicate potentially bad news? When using the case, instructors can use an integrated approach (consider cost/managerial, financial, and tax accounting issues), or focus on the learning objectives that most align with their course. The case has been successfully used with M.Acc., M.B.A., and E.M.B.A. students to demonstrate the implications of management's transfer pricing decisions, the impact of judgment in critical thinking, and how problem solving represents leadership.
Novel Observations From Next-Generation RNA Sequencing of Highly Purified Human Adult and Fetal Islet Cell Subsets
Authors: Blodgett David M. , Nowosielska Anetta , Afik Shaked , Pechhold Susanne , Cura Anthony J. , Kennedy Norman J. , Kim Soyoung , Kucukural Alper , Davis Roger J. , Kent Sally C. , Greiner Dale L. , Garber Manuel G. , Harlan David M. , diIorio Philip
Published: May 2015

Understanding distinct gene expression patterns of normal adult and developing fetal human pancreatic α- and β-cells is crucial for developing stem cell therapies, islet regeneration strategies, and therapies designed to increase β-cell function in patients with diabetes (type 1 or 2). Toward that end, we have developed methods to highly purify α-, β-, and δ-cells from human fetal and adult pancreata by intracellular staining for the cell-specific hormone content, sorting the subpopulations by flow cytometry, and, using next-generation RNA sequencing, we report the detailed transcriptomes of fetal and adult α- and β-cells. We observed that human islet composition was not influenced by age, sex, or BMI, and transcripts for inflammatory gene products were noted in fetal β-cells. In addition, within highly purified adult glucagon-expressing α-cells, we observed surprisingly high insulin mRNA expression, but not insulin protein expression. This transcriptome analysis from highly purified islet α- and β-cell subsets from fetal and adult pancreata offers clear implications for strategies that seek to increase insulin expression in type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Effect of cardiac and respiratory cycles on vertebral heart score measured on fluoroscopic images of healthy dogs
Authors: Olive Julien , Javard Romain , Specchi Swan , Bélanger Marie-Claude , Bélanger Catherine , Beauchamp Guy , Alexander Kate
Published: May 2015

Objective—To assess the variability in vertebral heart score (VHS) measurement induced by cardiac and respiratory cycles in dogs.

Design—Prospective observational study.

Animals—14 healthy Beagles.

Procedures—Dogs underwent fluoroscopic examination by 4 observers, and VHS was measured at end-tidal inspiration and end-tidal expiration during end systole and end diastole in left and right lateral recumbency. Mean VHS was compared within and among cardiac and respiratory phases and recumbency type, and correlation between VHS and heart rate was investigated. Interobserver variability was assessed.

Results—Mean VHS for each combination of respiratory and cardiac cycle was larger on images obtained in right lateral versus left lateral recumbency. The greatest differences were observed between VHS measured in the diastolic inspiratory phase (mean ± SD, 10.59 ± 0.49 vertebral units [VU] and 10.35 ± 0.50 VU for right and left lateral recumbency, respectively) and the systolic expiratory phase (10.11 ± 0.37 VU and 9.92 ± 0.50 VU for right and left lateral recumbency, respectively). The combination of respiratory and cardiac cycles induced a maximal difference in VHS of up to 0.97 VU and 1.11 VU in the inspiratory and expiratory phases, respectively. Heart rate was not correlated with the difference between VHS in systolic and diastolic phases.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Clinicians should be aware of the potential influence of these factors when assessing VHS in dogs; in addition to allowing optimal pulmonary assessment, consistently taking radiographs at end-inspiratory tidal volume may help to limit VHS variability attributable to the respiratory cycle. Further research is needed to assess the effects of cardiac and respiratory phases on VHS in dogs with cardiac or respiratory disease.
Laparoscopic inguinal hernioplasty in a ram
Authors: Daniel Alexander J. , Easley Jeremiah T. , Holt Timothy N. , Huhn John C. , Hackett Eileen S.
Published: May 2015

Case Description—A 4-month-old Hampshire ram underwent open right inguinal herniorrhaphy and unilateral castration following herniation that developed after a kick injury. Seven months later, the ram was reevaluated because of scrotal swelling of 1 month's duration as well as suspected left inguinal hernia.

Clinical Findings—The ram had marked scrotal swelling. Palpation of the left testicle revealed no abnormalities. Ultrasonographic examination revealed heterogenous tissue within the cranial and medial portions of the scrotum with pronounced accumulation of hypoechoic fluid at the scrotal apex. Examination findings indicated left-sided indirect inguinal herniation of omentum.

Treatment and Outcome—To preserve fertility, left inguinal hernioplasty without castration was performed. The ram was anesthetized and placed in dorsal recumbency, and laparoscopic abdominal evaluation revealed omental entrapment within the left inguinal ring. The omentum was removed, and a polypropylene mesh was secured over the internal inguinal ring with an articulating hernia stapler. Following mesh placement, a dorsally based peritoneal flap was elevated and secured over the mesh repair. The ram recovered well from surgery; there was no repeated herniation following the surgical correction, and the ram was able to breed successfully without complication.

Clinical Relevance—Laparoscopic mesh hernioplasty can be successful in rams with inguinal hernias when preservation of fertility is preferred.
Avascular Necrosis of the Femoral Head
Authors: Lee Matt , Hazle Charles
Published: May 2015

The patient was a 51-year-old man who was evaluated by a physical therapist for a chief complaint of right hip pain. The patient was treated with a single bout of nonthrust hip joint mobilizations, but due to the patient's atypical response and long-term use of oral corticosteroid medications, he was referred to his primary care physician. Radiographs and subsequent magnetic resonance imaging revealed findings that were characteristic of avascular necrosis.

J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2015;45(5):425. doi:10.2519/jospt.2015.0405
The incidence of high-frequency hearing loss after microvascular decompression for trigeminal neuralgia, glossopharyngeal neuralgia, or geniculate neuralgia
Authors: Thirumala Parthasarathy , Meigh Kristin , Dasyam Navya , Shankar Preethi , Sarma Kanika R. K. , Sarma Deepika R. K. , Habeych Miguel , Crammond Donald , Balzer Jeffrey
Published: May 2015

OBJECT

The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence and discuss the pathogenesis of high-frequency hearing loss (HFHL) after microvascular decompression (MVD) for trigeminal neuralgia (TGN), glossopharyngeal neuralgia (GPN), or geniculate neuralgia (GN).

METHODS

The authors analyzed preoperative and postoperative audiogram data and brainstem auditory evoked potentials (BAEPs) from 93 patients with TGN, 6 patients with GPN, and 8 patients with GN who underwent MVD. Differences in pure tone audiometry > 10 dB at frequencies of 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, and 8 kHz were calculated preoperatively and postoperatively for both the ipsilateral and the contralateral sides. Intraoperative monitoring records were analyzed and compared with the incidence of HFHL, which was defined as a change in pure tone audiometry > 10 dB at frequencies of 4 and 8 kHz.

RESULTS

The incidence of HFHL was 30.84% on the side ipsilateral to the surgery and 20.56% on the contralateral side. Of the 47 patients with HFHL, 20 had conductive hearing loss, and 2 experienced nonserviceable hearing loss after the surgery. The incidences of HFHL on the ipsilateral side at 4 and 8 kHz were 17.76% and 25.23%, respectively, and 8.41% and 15.89%, respectively, on the contralateral side. As the audiometric frequency increased, the number of patients with hearing loss increased. No significant postoperative difference was found between patients with and without HFHL in intraoperative BAEP waveforms. Sex, age, and affected side were not associated with an increase in the incidence of hearing loss.

CONCLUSIONS

High-frequency hearing loss occurred after MVD for TGN, GPN, or GN, and the greatest incidence occurred on the ipsilateral side. This hearing loss may be a result of drill-induced noise and/or transient loss of cerebrospinal fluid during the course of the procedure. Changes in intraoperative BAEP waveforms were not useful in predicting HFHL after MVD. Repeated postoperative audiological examinations may be useful in assessing the prognosis of HFHL.
Preoperative identification of neurosurgery patients with a high risk of in-hospital complications: a prospective cohort of 418 consecutive elective craniotomy patients
Authors: Reponen Elina , Korja Miikka , Niemi Tomi , Silvasti-Lundell Marja , Hernesniemi Juha , Tuominen Hanna
Published: May 2015

OBJECT

Patients undergoing craniotomy are routinely assessed preoperatively, yet the role of these assessments in predicting outcome is poorly studied. This study aimed to identify preoperative factors predicting in-hospital outcome after cranial neurosurgery.

METHODS

The study cohort consisted of 418 consecutive adults undergoing elective craniotomy for any intracranial lesion. Apart from the age criteria (≥ 18 years), almost all patients were considered eligible for the study to increase external validity of the results. The studied preoperative assessments included various patient-related data, routine blood tests, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) Physical Status Classification system, and a local modification of the ASA classification (Helsinki ASA classification). Adverse outcomes were in-hospital mortality, in-hospital systemic or infectious complications, and in-hospital CNS deficits. Resource use was defined as length of stay (LOS) in the intensive care unit and overall LOS in the hospital.

RESULTS

The in-hospital mortality rate was 1.0%. In-hospital systemic or infectious complications and permanent or transient CNS deficits occurred in 6.7% and 11.2% of the patients, respectively. Advanced age (≥ 60–65 years), elevated C-reactive protein level (> 3 mg/L), and high Helsinki ASA score (Class 4) were associated with in-hospital systemic and infectious complications, and a combination of these could identify one-fourth of the patients with postoperative complications. Moreover, this combination of preoperative assessment parameters was significantly associated with increased resource use.

CONCLUSIONS

In this first prospective and unselected cohort study of outcome after elective craniotomy, simple preoperative assessments identified patients with a high risk of in-hospital systemic or infectious complications as well as extended resource use. Presented risk assessment methods may be widely applicable, also in low-volume centers, as they are based on composite predictors and outcome events.
The value of head circumference measurements after 36 months of age: a clinical report and review of practice patterns
Authors: James Hector E. , Perszyk Anthony A. , MacGregor Teresa L. , Aldana Philipp R.
Published: May 2015

OBJECT

The cranium is documented to grow from birth through adolescence. The standard of practice in primary care is measuring head circumference and plotting growth using curves that stop at 36 months. The authors report the importance of their experience with measuring head circumference in the child and same-sex parent beyond 36 months.

METHODS

In the University of Florida genetics and pediatric neurosurgery clinics, head circumference is measured and plotted on growth charts through 18 years of age. Circumference and rate of growth over time are compared with those of the same-sex parent. A diagnostic workup is initiated if there is a discrepancy with the patient's head circumference or if there is significant change in the growth rate of the cranium.

RESULTS

Between January 2004 and December 2007, the lead author examined 190 patients referred by pediatricians and/or pediatric subspecialists because of the concerns regarding head size of the child. Neuroimaging was performed in 70% of the patients prior to referral. None of the patients had their head size compared with that of their same-sex parent prior to referral. On assessing referring physician responses as to why the same-sex parents, head measurements were not pursued prior to imaging or referral to the specialists, the results were: 1) only have head circumference sheets to 36 months of age (n = 28); 2) the American Academy of Pediatrics does not recommend it (n = 3); and 3) the head stops growing at 36 months of age (n = 2).

CONCLUSIONS

Pediatricians and pediatric subspecialists need instruction on head circumference measurement in children from infancy through adolescence, and when indicated, in comparison with the head size of the same-sex parent. This measurement may be an effective and inexpensive assessment tool.
Neoadjuvant chemotherapy reduces blood loss during the resection of pediatric choroid plexus carcinomas
Authors: Schneider Christian , Kamaly-Asl Ian , Ramaswamy Vijay , Lafay-Cousin Lucie , Kulkarni Abhaya V. , Rutka James T. , Remke Marc , Coluccia Daniel , Tabori Uri , Hawkins Cynthia , Bouffet Eric , Taylor Michael D.
Published: May 2015

OBJECT

Choroid plexus carcinomas (CPCs) are rare brain tumors originating from the ventricular choroid plexus. They account for 2%–4% of all pediatric brain tumors and are most frequently seen in very young children. This pediatric proclivity, in combination with a marked vascularity, renders an aggressive resection a difficult and often dangerous endeavor. Blood losses of several total blood volumes in small children are not uncommon, sometimes forcing the neurosurgeon to abort the procedure, often leaving residual tumor. Great extent of tumor resection is an accepted beneficial factor for overall survival. Therefore, a second resection usually follows the administration of adjuvant chemotherapy. Second-look surgery appears to be associated with markedly decreased blood loss. Histological examination of specimens obtained at a second intervention shows decreased vascularity and fibrotic changes in tumor tissue. At the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, this empirical finding led to the strategy of neoadjuvant chemotherapy to minimize blood loss and maximize cytoreduction. The authors undertook this study to assess the potentially beneficial effect of neoadjuvant chemotherapy on blood loss during surgery for CPCs.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort review, the demographic, clinical, and treatment parameters of 22 consecutive patients diagnosed with CPC are presented. All underwent surgical treatment at the Hospital for Sick Children from 1982 to 2013. Special attention was given to the impact of neoadjuvant chemotherapy on extent of resection and intraoperative blood loss. Extent of resection was calculated based on perioperative neuroimaging, and amount of blood loss was estimated based on transfusion parameters and perioperative changes in hematocrit.

RESULTS

Ten patients did not receive neoadjuvant chemotherapy, and 12 were treated with 2–5 cycles of ICE (ifosfamide, carboplatin, etoposide) chemotherapy in a neoadjuvant fashion. The 22 patients included in the study underwent a total of 37 tumor resection surgeries. In all of the cases in which neoadjuvant chemotherapy was used, at least a near-total resection (> 95% of tumor volume) was achieved. Patients who underwent gross-total resection had prolonged overall survival. Of the 37 resections, 18 were performed after chemotherapy. Mean blood loss in the neoadjuvant chemotherapy group was 22% of total estimated blood volume as opposed to 96% in patients without preoperative chemotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS

In children with CPC, the administration of neoadjuvant chemotherapy decreases intraoperative blood loss and increases extent of resection with a significant positive effect on overall survival.
Initial clinical presentation of children with acute and chronic versus acute subdural hemorrhage resulting from abusive head trauma
Authors: Feldman Kenneth W. , Sugar Naomi F. , Browd Samuel R.
Published: May 2015

OBJECT

At presentation, children who have experienced abusive head trauma (AHT) often have subdural hemorrhage (SDH) that is acute, chronic, or both. Controversy exists whether the acute SDH associated with chronic SDH results from trauma or from spontaneous rebleeding. The authors compared the clinical presentations of children with AHT and acute SDH with those having acute and chronic SDH (acute/chronic SDH).

METHODS

The study was a multicenter retrospective review of children who had experienced AHT during 2004–2009. The authors compared the clinical and radiological characteristics of children with acute SDH to those of children with acute/chronic SDH.

RESULTS

The study included 383 children with AHT and either acute SDH (n = 291) or acute/chronic SDH (n = 92). The children with acute/chronic SDH were younger, had higher initial Glasgow Coma Scale scores, fewer deaths, fewer skull fractures, less parenchymal brain injury, and fewer acute noncranial fractures than did children with acute SDH. No between-group differences were found for the proportion with retinal hemorrhages, healing noncranial fractures, or acute abusive bruises. A similar proportion (approximately 80%) of children with acute/chronic SDH and with acute SDH had retinal hemorrhages or acute or healing extracranial injures. Of children with acute/chronic SDH, 20% were neurologically asymptomatic at presentation; almost half of these children were seen for macrocephaly, and for all of them, the acute SDH was completely within the area of the chronic SDH.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, the presenting clinical and radiological characteristics of children with acute SDH and acute/chronic SDH caused by AHT did not differ, suggesting that repeated abuse, rather than spontaneous rebleeding, is the etiology of most acute SDH in children with chronic SDH. However, more severe neurological symptoms were more common among children with acute SDH. Children with acute/chronic SDH and asymptomatic macrocephaly have unique risks and distinct radiological and clinical characteristics.
Continuous intraputamenal convection-enhanced delivery in adult rhesus macaques
Authors: Fan Xiaotong , Nelson Brian D. , Ai Yi , Stiles David K. , Gash Don M. , Hardy Peter A. , Zhang Zhiming
Published: May 2015

OBJECT

Assessing the safety and feasibility of chronic delivery of compounds to the brain using convection-enhanced delivery (CED) is important for the further development of this important therapeutic technology. The objective of this study was to follow and model the distribution of a compound delivered by CED into the putamen of rhesus monkeys.

METHODS

The authors sequentially implanted catheters into 4 sites spanning the left and right putamen in each of 6 rhesus monkeys. The catheters were connected to implanted pumps, which were programmed to deliver a 5-mM solution of the MRI contrast agent Gd-DTPA at 0.1 μl/minute for 7 days and 0.3 μl/minute for an additional 7 days. The animals were followed for 28 days per implant cycle during which they were periodically examined with MRI.

RESULTS

All animals survived the 4 surgeries with no deficits in behavior. Compared with acute infusion, the volume of distribution (Vd) increased 2-fold with 7 days of chronic infusion. Increasing the flow rate 3-fold over the next week increased the Vd an additional 3-fold. Following withdrawal of the compound, the half-life of Gd-DTPA in the brain was estimated as 3.1 days based on first-order pharmacokinetics. Histological assessment of the brain showed minimal tissue damage limited to the insertion site.

CONCLUSIONS

These results demonstrate several important features in the development of a chronically implanted pump and catheter system: 1) the ability to place catheters accurately in a predetermined target; 2) the ability to deliver compounds in a chronic fashion to the putamen; and 3) the use of MRI and MR visible tracers to follow the evolution of the infusion volume over time.
The cranial orbital buttress technique for nonsyndromic unicoronal and metopic craniosynostosis
Authors: Seal Shane K. F. , Steinbok Paul , Courtemanche Douglas J.
Published: May 2015

OBJECT

Current craniosynostosis procedures can result in complications due to absorbable plates and screws or other specialized expensive hardware. The authors propose the cranial orbital buttress (COB) technique of frontoorbital remodeling for metopic and unicoronal synostoses, wherein no plates or screws are used. They hypothesize that, with this technique, aesthetically acceptable outcomes for unicoronal and metopic synostosis can be achieved. In this article, they present this technique and compare the results with current frontoorbital remodeling practices.

METHODS

The authors conducted a retrospective chart review of cases in which patients with nonsyndromic unicoronal or metopic synostosis underwent cranio-orbital surgery at their institution from 1985 through 2009. Operative parameters, surgical variations, and complications were analyzed. The COB technique uses a 1-piece switch, hemiforeheads, or multiple pieces for forehead remodeling. The supraorbital bar is reconstructed in patients with metopic synostosis using a double wedge or greenstick fracture technique, and in patients with unicoronal synostosis a hinge procedure based on a 1.5-orbital osteotomy is used. The supraorbital bar is advanced and supported in place by bone graft(s) inserted at the lateral aspect(s) of the orbit(s) to form a buttress, with fixation done using absorbable sutures.

RESULTS

A total of 79 cases met the criteria for inclusion in the study. Twenty-nine patients had metopic synostosis, 3 had combined metopic and sagittal synostoses, and 47 had unicoronal synostosis. The patients’ mean age at surgery was 11.4 ± 10.1 months and the mean operative time was 183.4 ± 41.0 minutes. The mean length of hospital stay was 3.7 ± 1.2 days. The mean blood loss was 150.0 ± 125.6 ml, and 33% of patients required a blood transfusion (mean volume 206.9 ± 102.3 ml). In metopic synostosis, hemiforeheads were used most often (24/29, 83%), and the supraorbital bar was remodeled using a bilateral intracranial orbital osteotomy followed by a double wedge modification (23/29, 79%) or a greenstick fracture (4/29 14%) for milder cases. Forehead remodeling for unicoronal synostosis was by a forehead switch (39/47, 83%) and the supraorbital bar was remodeled using a 1.5-orbital intracranial orbital osteotomy (34/47, 72%) such that the bar was advanced on the abnormal side and hinged at the midline of the normal orbit. Perioperative complications occurred in 19% of cases and included dural tears (16%), inconsequential subdural hematoma (1.3%), and nasal greenstick fracture (1.3%). The total reoperation rate was 7.6% (cranioplasties for irregular contours, 6.3%; scar revision, 1.3%).

CONCLUSIONS

The COB remodeling technique is simple and efficient, gives acceptable outcomes, and is less resource intensive than previous techniques reported in the literature.
Intracranial hypertension after surgical correction for craniosynostosis: a systematic review
Authors: Christian Eisha A. , Imahiyerobo Thomas A. , Nallapa Swathi , Urata Mark , McComb J. Gordon , Krieger Mark D.
Published: May 2015

OBJECT

The authors’ aim was perform a systematic review on the incidence of intracranial hypertension (IH) after surgery for craniosynostosis.

METHODS

A systematic literature review was conducted using PubMed to assess the rate of postoperative IH in studies published between 1985 and 2014. Inclusion criteria were 1) English-language literature; 2) human subjects; 3) pediatric cases; and 4) postoperative IH confirmed with invasive intracranial pressure monitoring.

RESULTS

Seven studies met inclusion criteria. IH was reported to be present in 5% of patients postoperatively with sagittal synostosis and 4% of patients with all forms of nonsyndromic craniosynostosis. Inadequate numbers were available to determine the incidence of postoperative IH for syndromic and individual nonsyndromic sutural synostosis based on the inclusion criteria. Surgical groups were subdivided into cranial remodeling procedures without orbital advancement and craniofacial procedures with orbital advancement. IH was reported to be present in 5% of patients with all forms of nonsyndromic sutural stenosis after cranial remodeling procedures and 1% after craniofacial advancement.

CONCLUSIONS

Postoperative development of elevated intracranial pressure has been described by multiple institutions, but the variation in how IH is determined and the multiple surgical procedures to correct craniosynostosis has limited the number of studies subject to a meta-analysis. Nonetheless, this entity deserves special attention, and further studies are required to determine the true incidence of postoperative IH, including the role of various surgical procedures on its incidence. The long-term consequences of chronic IH in this group of patients also need to be evaluated.
Upward transtentorial herniation following frontoorbital advancement for syndromic craniosynostosis: case report
Authors: Mehta Vivek , Bakhsheshian Joshua , Dorafshar Amir H. , Ahn Edward S.
Published: May 2015

The authors describe the case of a boy with Muenke syndrome, an autosomal dominant disorder associated with craniosynostosis. The family history was significant for syndromic craniosynostosis in the patient’s maternal grandmother, who died in adulthood after a craniofacial reconstruction. The patient, her grandson, underwent craniofacial reconstruction surgery at the age of 9 months and developed upward transtentorial herniation. Imaging findings revealed remote cerebellar hemorrhage after a large quantity of supratentorial CSF was drained during postoperative Day 1. The clinical course was further complicated by cerebral sinus thrombosis, which was diagnosed after a fourth surgical procedure. Upward transtentorial herniation can occur when a significant increase in intracranial pressure in the posterior fossa causes displacement of the central lobule and superior surfaces of the cerebellum upward through the incisura tentorii. This is a rare but well-documented phenomenon that commonly occurs in the setting of an expansive posterior fossa lesion or excessive supratentorial CSF loss. To help clinicians recognize and prevent this rare but potentially fatal complication, the authors review the postulated mechanisms by which this process may occur.
Computer-assisted virtual planning and surgical template fabrication for frontoorbital advancement
Authors: Soleman Jehuda , Thieringer Florian , Beinemann Joerg , Kunz Christoph , Guzman Raphael
Published: May 2015

OBJECT

The authors describe a novel technique using computer-assisted design (CAD) and computed-assisted manufacturing (CAM) for the fabrication of individualized 3D printed surgical templates for frontoorbital advancement surgery.

METHODS

Two patients underwent frontoorbital advancement surgery for unilateral coronal synostosis. Virtual surgical planning (SurgiCase-CMF, version 5.0, Materialise) was done by virtual mirroring techniques and superposition of an age-matched normative 3D pediatric skull model. Based on these measurements, surgical templates were fabricated using a 3D printer. Bifrontal craniotomy and the osteotomies for the orbital bandeau were performed based on the sterilized 3D templates. The remodeling was then done placing the bone plates within the negative 3D templates and fixing them using absorbable poly-dl-lactic acid plates and screws.

RESULTS

Both patients exhibited a satisfying head shape postoperatively and at follow-up. No surgery-related complications occurred. The cutting and positioning of the 3D surgical templates proved to be very accurate and easy to use as well as reproducible and efficient.

CONCLUSIONS

Computer-assisted virtual planning and 3D template fabrication for frontoorbital advancement surgery leads to reconstructions based on standardizedmeasurements, precludes subjective remodeling, and seems to be overall safe and feasible. A larger series of patients with long-term follow-up is needed for further evaluation of this novel technique.
Effect of preservation time on the quality of frozen semen in indigenous rams
Authors: Mahmuda BBA , Nesa Azizun , Zohara BF , Alam MGS , Bari FY
Published: May 2015

The study was carried out to observe the effects of preservation time on the quality of frozen semen of indigenous rams. Semen was collected using AV once a week from 4 rams. Tris based with 10% egg yolk and 7% glycerol extender was used to extend and freezing the semen. Fresh semen was evaluated for volume, density, mass motility and concentration, and mean values were observed as 0.8±0.2ml, 3.0±0.3, 3.2±0.7, 3.9±0.7×109/ml, respectively. Significant difference (p<0.05) was found for all the parameters among the rams. Mean values of motility, viability and normal morphology percentages were 83.3±4.3%, 88.2±4.4%, 84.2±3.5% in fresh semen while those of chilled semen at 40C were 74.7±2.3, 78.8±4.9 and 79.2±2.9%, respectively. For all the parameters, significant (p<0.05) difference was found among the rams. Frozen sperm motility was observed after thawing at 39-400C for 14-15 seconds. The mean motility, viability and normal morphology percentages after freezing for 24hrs, 7, 15 and 30 days of duration were 39.8±3.1, 41.1±4.3, 40.1±4.1 and 39.4±2.9%; 44.5±2.5, 45.3±2.8, 44.6±2.8 and 43.9±2.8%; 71.0±2.0, 71.7±1.5, 70.7±1.7 and 70.3±1.8%, respectively and values did not decrease significantly (p>0.05) with the increasing time of preservation. Non significantly decrease of the semen quality with advance of preservation time indicates the suitability of the protocol used for freezing of indigenous ram semen in Bangladesh.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjas.v44i1.23113            Bang. J. Anim. Sci. 2014. 44 (1): 10-15
Effect of feeding cottonseed cake on male fertility in rabbit
Authors: Kenfack A , Chombong JK , Ngoula F , Vemo NB , Tsambou AMM , Zeukeng GMZ , Mama B , Tchoumboué J
Published: May 2015

In order to study the effects of cottonseed cake on the fertility of the male rabbit, 60 animals (40 bucks and 20 does) were used. Males were 3 months old at the beginning of the essay, and the females were multiparous. Males were divided into 4 identical groups. Four diets containing 0, 6, 12 and 18% of cottonseed cake were formulated and randomly allotted to different groups of males. All the females received the same diet (6%). The treatment lasted for 90 days. At the end of that period, 5 males were sacrificed per lot and the rest were allowed to mate each with an untreated female before being sacrificed in turn. No significant difference (p>0.05) was observed among rations for the volume of testis and weight of reproductive organs. Histological study of the testes revealed no abnormality. In the presence of an untreated female, hundred percent of rabbits realized mounting and ejaculated whichever the cottonseed cake level. Nevertheless, the volume of the ejaculate was significantly (p>0.05) low in rabbit fed 6% cottonseed cake (0.86 vs 1.66, 12%). The spermatozoa concentration in the cauda epididymis was higher in rabbit given cottonseed cake than in control, although not significantly (p>0.05). The adverse effects of the toxicant contained in cottonseed cake occurred at 18% inclusion. The result showed that it is not possible to generalize the upper limit of inclusion of cottonseed cake in the ration formulation.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjas.v44i1.23123             Bang. J. Anim. Sci. 2014. 44 (1): 16-20
Effect of intercropping on high yielding fodder production in bathan areas of Sirajgonj district
Authors: Rahman MZ , Ali MY , Afroz MF , Karim MR , Talukder MAI
Published: May 2015

The experiment was conducted at Bajar Para bathan of Shajadpur upazila under Sirajgonj district to study the effects of intercropping on high yielding fodder production in Bathan areas of Sirajgonj district. In this experiment, fodders were cultivated in 27 experimental plots of each size (15×15m) were arranged in 9 treatments as Khesari (Sole), Napier dwarf early, Napier dwarf late, Splendida, Jumboo, Khesari+Napier dwarf early, Khesari+Napier dwarf late, Khesari+Splendida and Khesari+Jumboo. The biomass yield of Napier dwarf early, Napier dwarf late, Splendida and Jumboo as sole crop were 100.32, 90.26, 72.31 and 48.33 ton/ha., respectively. The yield of Khesari was 58.76 ton/ha. as sole crop and differs significantly (p<0.01) when intercropped with Napier dwarf early, Napier dwarf late, Splendida and Jumbo. The fresh total biomass yield of intercropped high yielding fodders and Khesari was considerably higher (151.11 ton/h) compared to sole high yielding fodders (100.32 ton/h) and sole Khesari (58.76t/h). The total highest biomass yield (151.11 ton/ha.) was obtained from the combination of Napier dwarf early and Khesari intercropping, followed by Napier dwarf late and Khesari (134.63ton/ha.), Splendida and Khesari (115.73 ton/ha.) then Jumboo and Khesari (87.55 ton/ha.), respectively. The total biomass yield difference among the intercropped group was significant (p<0.05). The land equivalent ratio (LER) increased in the intercropped practices of Khesari+Napier dwarf early, Khesari+Napier dwarf late, Khesari+Splendida and Khesari+ Jumboo (1.84, 1.75, 1.73 and 1.65, respectively) compared with sole Napier dwarf early, Napier dwarf late, Splendida, Jumboo and Khesari. Benefit cost ratio (BCR) of Khesari+Napier dwarf early cropping method was 1.73 which was higher than others cropping method. It may be suggested to cultivate Napier dwarf early along with Khesari in the bathan land in the existing feeding system.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjas.v44i1.23124          Bang. J. Anim. Sci. 2014. 44 (1): 21-25
Effect of processed bambara groundnuts and benne seeds on growth and organ morphology of broiler
Authors: Akanji AM
Published: May 2015

An experiment was conducted to determine the effects of replacing full fat soybean meal with aqueousheated, dryheated and dehulled Bambara groundnuts (Vigna subterranea (L.) Verdc.) and benne seeds (Sesamum indicum) on performance characteristics and organ morphology of broiler chickens over a period of eight weeks. Anti-nutritional factors in the raw and processed plant seeds were determined. Higher amounts of haemagglutinin (HG) and trypsin inhibitor (TI) were found in the raw Bambara groundnuts, and tannin, phytate and oxalate in raw benne seeds  respectively. Both HG and TI were completely destroyed in aqueous-heated Bambara groundnuts while the dry heated Bambara groundnuts contained residual amounts of the anti-nutrients. Higher amounts of the tannin, oxalate and phytate were removed in the dehulled benne seeds. Feed intake was statistically not significant in different treatment groups. Weight gain and feed conversion efficiency were more significantly (p<0.05) reduced in groups fed dehulled Bambara groundnuts, aqueousheated benne seeds and dryheated benne seeds. Significant (p<0.05) reductions were also  obtained in  nitrogen retention of birds fed with dehulled Bambara groundnuts, aqueousheated benne seeds and dryheated benne seeds respectively. The organ morphology showed significant (p<0.05) increases in weights of pancreas and kidney of birds fed dehulled Bambara groundnuts. The best improvements in the response indices were obtained in birds fed aqueous-heated Bambara groundnuts and dehulled benne seeds.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjas.v44i1.23127               Bang. J. Anim. Sci. 2014. 44 (1): 26-32
Effect of post-slaughter time and storage conditions on chemical and microbial changes in locally marketed beef
Authors: Jahan R , Hossain MM , Rashid MH , Akhter S , Khan MSI
Published: May 2015

Fresh meat is commonly marketing at environmental temperature for long time in many developing countries including Bangladesh. The present study was conducted to assess whether elapsed time between slaughter and preservation and storage conditions influence the chemical and microbial changes of locally marketed beef. Meat samples were collected from local markets and divided into two groups, morning and evening beef. Morning beef was collected immediately after slaughtering from healthy cattle while evening one was collected 8 h after slaughtering. The samples were kept either in refrigerator (4oC) or freezer (-20oC). Refrigerated samples were stored for 7 days and analyzed on day1st, 3rd and 7th while frozen samples were stored for 90 days and analyzed on day 3rd, 45th and 90th. Results showed that there was a significant difference in chemical and microbial parameters between morning and evening beef (p<0.01 to 0.05). With respect to the advances of storage time, the dry matter, crude protein, ether extract and ash contents were increased in beef sample (p<0.01), indicating the moisture loss from meat time elapsed after slaughtering. Moreover, the coliform, yeast and mold counts were also increased with advance of storage time (p<0.01 to0.05),indicating the unhygienic conditions of slaughter house, equipment and water which is giving signal for the possible occurrence of food borne intoxication. In conclusion, we found that the quality of marketed beef degraded with the time elapsed before storage and storage temperature suggesting the importance of early preservation of meat at lower temperature. Our findings of increased number of microbial counts were also suggested the necessity to improve the hygienic conditions of slaughterhouse and equipment in developing countries like Bangladesh.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjas.v44i1.23143            Bang. J. Anim. Sci. 2014. 44 (1): 52-58
Preparation of cattle manure compost using saw dust and rice straw
Authors: Ali MM , Khan FA , Hossain MM , Rahman ANMI
Published: May 2015

The experiment was carried out to examine the possibilities of making compost by using cattle manure with saw dust and rice straw by three trials in each. The trials were conducted with cattle manure (T1), cattle manure with saw dust (T2) and cattle manure with rice straw (T3). There were three replications in each treatment. The sample from composted materials was collected at 0 and 60 days for proximate analysis. At 0 day, the highest dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM) and crude fiber (CF) were observed in T2. The highest crude protein (CP) and ash content were observed in T1 while the highest pH was observed in T3. The carbon nitrogen (C/N) ratio was the lowest in T1. At 60 days of composting cattle manure the highest DM, OM and CF were observed in T2 comparison with 0 day data. At 60 days of composting the highest CP and ash content were observed in T2  and the C/N ratio and pH were lowest in T1. Therefore, the use of saw dust and rice straw improves quality of cattle manure compost. It may be concluded that proximate composition of all samples at 60 days in T2 treatment was acceptable up to the end of composting period. However, T2 was more effective compare to other treatments at 60 days of composting in terms of DM, OM, CP, ash content and pH. So, it is recommended that farmers can practice cattle manure composting using saw dust up to 60 days of composting as organic fertilizer.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjas.v44i1.23145             Bang. J. Anim. Sci. 2014. 44 (1): 64-68
Present status of gayal (Bos frontalis) in the home tract of Bangladesh
Authors: Faruque MO , Rahaman MF , Hoque MA , Ikeya K , Amano T , Han JL , Dorji T , Omar AI
Published: May 2015

Gayal (Bos frontalis) is a semi domesticated and endangered bovine species in Bangladesh. This study was conducted to know the present distribution, performances and utility of gayal in the home tract. Bandarban Hill district was found the home tract of gayal in Bangladesh. Gayals were reared under extensive management system in the forest of Bandarban Hill district. They browsed forest herbs and grass freely in the forest and came to human dwelling for salt licking. Total number of gayal was counted between 800- 900. The average number of gayal per farmer was 5.01. The coat color of adult gayal was black. White stocking was very prominent in adult gayal. The height at wither and weight for adult males ranged from 126 to 136 cm and 490 to 577 kg, respectively. Reproductive efficiency was high and calving interval was 402 days. They exhibited high disease resistant. The PVC (Pack Cell Volume) and hemoglobin value was 33.5±5.71% and 13.43±2.9 g/dl, respectively. Gayal was used only as meat animal. The high growth rate and reproductive efficiency of gayal in the home tract indicates that this species can be utilized economically if proper breeding plan and sound extension service can be adopted.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjas.v44i1.23147Bang. J. Anim. Sci. 2014. 44 (1): 75-84