bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gallbladder perforation associated with cholelithiasis and cholecystitis in a dog
Authors: Brömel C. , Léveillé R. , Scrivani P. V. , Smeak D. D. , Podell M. , Wagner S. O.
Published: April 2008

A four‐year‐old female Japanese akita was admitted with icterus, ascites and chronically elevated serum bilirubin and liver enzymes. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed a diffusely thickened, hyperechoic gallbladder wall with a focal defect, hepatic lymphadenopathy and a large volume of anechoic fluid within the peritoneal space. Diagnosis of biliary tract rupture with bile peritonitis was based on the findings of bile and suppurative exudate in peritoneal aspirates. A perforated gallbladder and cholelithiasis were found on exploratory celiotomy, while histopathology revealed chronic suppurative cholecystitis. The dog recovered uneventfully after cholecystectomy. Although rare, the triad of cholelithiasis, cholecystitis and gallbladder perforation should be considered after detection of one of these conditions.
Calcipotriol toxicity in a dog
Authors: Fan T. M. , Simpson K. W. , Trasti S. , Birnbaum N. , Center S. A. , Yeager A.
Published: April 2008

A six‐month‐old Labrador retriever was presented for investigation of acute polyuria, polydipsia and haematemesis six hours following ingestion of a tube of the topical antipsoriatic vitamin D analogue, calcipotriol. Transient hypercalcaemia, azotaemia, proteinuria, thrombocytopenia and ventricular arrhythmlas ensued. Abdominal ultrasonography and echocardiography revealed evidence of diffuse soft tissue mineralisation. Despite 13 days of intensive supportive care, the dog was euthanased due to continued haematemesis and anorexia. Necropsy confirmed mineralisation and necrosis of multiple organ systems consistent with vitamin D toxicity.
Rhabdomyosarcoma of the tongue in a dog
Authors: Lascelles B. D. X. , McInnes E. , Dobson J. M. , White R. A. S.
Published: April 2008

A lingual rhabdomyosarcoma was diagnosed in a six‐year‐old Staffordshire bull terrier with clinical signs of dysphagia. The unsuccessful response to initial chemotherapy, to surgical resection and subsequent surgical resection and radiation therapy is documented. The accurate diagnosis and prognosis of such tumours is also discussed. Lingual rhabdomarcoma has not previously been reported in the dog.
Using the Unger system to classify 386 long bone fractures in dogs
Authors: Miller C. W. , Sumner‐Smith G. , Sheridan C. , Pennock P. W.
Published: April 2008

A system already described by Unger and others was used to classify long bone fractures in dogs. The present paper reports experiences using the fracture classification system regarding its ease of use and the ability to analyse the data generated. Three hundred and eighty‐six canine long bone fractures were classified from radiographs. Results were assessed by reviewing the medical records or by sending questionnaires to referring veterinarians. There were a few inconsistencies, particularly in classifying proximal ulnar fractures, but the system was easy to use and data retrieval was readily accomplished. Data from the system were used to compare the results of repairs of diaphyseal fractures of the radius/ulna, femur and tibia/fibula. A chi square analysis was used to determine significant differences between the outcome scores of the three fracture types. Fractures of the femoral diaphysis had a statistically poorer outcome than did diaphyseal fractures of the radius/ulna or tibia/fibula.
In vitro percutaneous absorption of fusidic acid and betamethasone 17‐valerate across canine skin
Authors: Degim I. T. , Hadgraft J. , Houghton E. , Teale P.
Published: April 2008

The penetration of betamethasone 17‐valerate and fusidic acid through dog skin was measured in vitro. In order to detect the small amounts of diffused compounds, a liquid chromatography‐mas spectrometric method was developed with sensitivity limits for both compounds of 5 ng/ml. After application to the skin surface of a topical gel preparation containing these compounds at the anticipated therapeutic dose rate, about 10 per cent of the betamethasone 17‐valerate penetrated the skin over a 24‐hour period, with no significant metabolism of the ester. About 1°3 per cent of the applied dose of fusidic acid was similarly recovered. The results demonstrated rapid penetration of both compounds through the epidermis.
Supracondylar femoral fractures in 159 dogs and cats treated using a normograde intramedullary pinning technique
Authors: Stigen Ø.
Published: April 2008

Three separate studies that collectively represent 107 dogs and 52 cats with supracondylar femoral fractures are presented. The animals were treated using a normograde intramedullary pinning technique at the Norwegian School of Veterinary Science during the period 1964 to 1993. The surgical technique involves insertion of one or two intramedullary pins normograde from the stifle joint without passing their proximal end proximal to the level of the femoral neck. The results of treatment were obtained for 73 dogs and 39 cats. Of these cases, 58 dogs (79·5 per cent) and 32 cats (82·1 per cent) were found to be free of lameness after the completion of treatment. Differences in the results of treatment, based on species or size, were not found. Of all cases in which the results of treatment were known (n=112), complications were recorded in nine animals (8·0 per cent). Infection and instability were the most common complications, affecting four and three cases, respectively.
Subacute necrotising encephalopathy in an Alaskan husky
Authors: Wakshlag J. J. , Lahunta A. de , Robinson T. , Cooper B. J. , Brenner O. , O'Toole T. D. , Olson J. , Beckman K. B. , Glass E. , Reynolds A. J.
Published: April 2008

A 29‐month‐old female Alaskan husky was presented recumbent, tetraparetic and in a state of dementia, with blindness and cranial nerve deficits. The dog's progress was followed for over two months, as the signs resolved to a non‐progressive mild hypermetria with slight proprioceptive ataxia, a diminished menace response and inability to prehend food. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed bilateral cavitation extending from the thalamus to the medulla, with less pronounced degenerative lesions in the caudate nucleus, putamen and claustrum. Cerebrospinal fluid lactate and pyruvate concentrations were in their normal ranges. Necropsy and histological examination confirmed the MRI findings as well as neuronal degeneration of the cerebellar cortex in the vermis and degenerative changes in the neocortex at the depths of the cerebral sulci. In view of the similarity of lesions to subacute necrotising encephaiomyelopathy, known as Leigh's disease in humans, a tentative diagnosis of a mitochondrial encephalopathy was made.
Rectal prolapse associated with urinary bladder neoplasia in a cat
Authors: Barrand K. R.
Published: April 2008

A case of feline rectal prolapse which appeared to be secondary to transitional cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder is described. The cat was reported to be incontinent and treatment was declined by the owners. Euthanasia was performed and necropsy revealed an extensive nodular thickening of the entire urinary bladder wall. A diagnosis of urinary bladder transitional cell carcinoma was made on histopathological examination.
Ultrasonographic diagnosis of a laryngeal cyst in a cat
Authors: Rudorf H. , Lane J. G. , Brown P. J. , Mackay A.
Published: April 2008

The ultrasonographic appearance, surgical treatment and pathological classification of a laryngeal cyst in a four‐year‐old cat is described. This is the first description of such a cyst diagnosed with the help of ultrasonography. The cat presented with dyspnoea and respiratory noise. An intraluminal fluid‐filled cyst attached to the vocal cord was identified by ultrasonography and drained under ultrasound guidance. The cyst recurred three weeks later and ultrasonography showed an increase in size compared to the previous examination. There was no evidence of recurrence of the lesion 18 months after surgical removal.
Feline granulocytic ehrlichiosis ‐a report of a new clinical entity and characterisation of the infectious agent
Authors: Bjöersdorff A. , Svendenius L , Owens J. H. , Massung R. F.
Published: April 2008

A 14‐month‐old shorthaired cat was presented to the Animal Hospital in Skara, Sweden, with a two‐day history of lethargy, anorexia and tachypnoea. Clinical examination and laboratory investigations revealed fever, dehydration, tick infestation, neutrophilia with left shift, lymphopenia, hyperglycaemia and intracytoplasmic neutrophilicEhrlichiainclusions. After treatment with intravenous doxycycline and lactated Ringer's solution the temperature returned to normal. Oral treatment with doxycycline continued for 20 days. The ehrlichiosis diagnosis was confirmed by serology, polymerase chain reaction and DNA sequencing. No relapse was observed during the eight‐month follow‐up period. The granulocytotropicEhrlichiastrain found in the cat was later characterised by analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequence which showed 100 per cent identity to DNA sequences found in Swedish canine and equine granulocytotropicEhrlichiastrains. This is, to the best of the authors' knowledge, the first reported case of granulocytic ehrlichiosis in a cat.
Is it possible to diagnose canine hypothyroidism?
Authors: Panciera D. L.
Published: April 2008

A definitive diagnosis of hypothyroidism can be difficult because of the many clinical abnormalities associated with thyroid hormone deficiency, and the lack of readily available diagnostic tests with high sensitivity and specificity. Thyroid function tests should be performed only in dogs with clinical findings consistent with hypothyroidism. Measurement of serum total thyroxine (T4) concentration is a useful initial screening test since most hypothyroid dogs have values below the reference range. Serum free T4concentration measured by equilibrium dialysis is a more sensitive and specific test of thyroid function than total T4and is particularly useful in dogs with non‐thyroidal illness or atypical clinical signs. Measurement of serum endogenous thyroid‐stimulating hormone concentration is also helpful, but many hypothyroid dogs have normal results. The gold standard for diagnosis of hypothyroidism remains the thyroid‐stimulating hormone response test. It should be used to confirm hypothyroidism when other tests do not agree with the clinical impression or if atypical signs or non‐thyroidal illness exist or there has been administration of drugs known to alter thyroid function tests. Ultimately, a positive response to treatment is expected in hypothyroid dogs treated appropriately with levothyroxine.
Factors affecting hip dysplasia in German shepherd dogs in Finland: efficacy of the current improvement programme
Authors: Leppänen M. , Mäki K. , Juga J. , Saloniemi H.
Published: April 2008

Hip dysplasia records from 10, 335 German shepherd dogs were used to estimate environmental effects and predict breeding values and genetic change achieved with the Finnish Kennel Club's breeding programme. The best linear unbiased prediction (BLUP) procedure was used for the analysis. No clear genetic improvement could be found during the study period (1985 to 1997). This might be due to ineffective selection for good hips. Significant environmental effects included year and month of birth, panellist, screening age and the effect of the genetic group of offspring from imported versus non‐imported sires. In order to make the breeding programme more effective, BLUP breeding values should be used instead of phenotypic selection.
Neutrophilic leucocytosis in a dog with a rectal turnour
Authors: Knottenbelt C. M. , Simpson J. W. , Chandler M. L.
Published: April 2008

A nine‐year‐old cocker spaniel was presented with a three‐year history of intermittent haematochezia and a palpable rectal mass. Routine haematological examination revealed a marked mature neutrophilia (86.04 × 109neutrophils/litre). A friable mass in the middle portion of the rectum was detected on colonoscopy. Histopathological examination of mucosal pinch biopsies collected from the mass confirmed a diagnosis of adenomatous tubulopapillary polyp. Some evidence of malignant transformation was observed. Palliative treatment with piroxicam suppositories at a dose of 1.4 mg/kg administered rectally every third day was instituted. On reevaluation, 47 days after starting medical therapy, the owner reported a significant reduction in haematochezia and tenesmus; however, frequency of defecation had remained unaltered. Routine haematology revealed a reduction in the mature neutrophil count (33.67 × 109neutrophils/litre). This report describes a case of a rectal tumour associated with a neutrophilic leucocytosis, which responded to palliative therapy with piroxicam suppositories.
Dysuria resulting from an encapsulated haematoma in a recently spayed bitch
Authors: Bradley K. J. , Billet J‐P. , Barr F. J.
Published: April 2008

A ismonth‐old bitch was presented for investigation of a two‐month history of dysuria. Clinical signs had developed within one day of routine ovariohysterectomy. A rounded mass was palpable in the caudal abdomen which was shown radiographically to displace and compress the urinary bladder. On ultrasonography, the mass was composed primarily of pockets of hypoechoic fluid divided by hyperechoic septae; blood was obtained on fine‐needle aspiration. The mass was surgically removed and the dog regained normal urinary function within a few days. Histopathological examination showed the mass to be an encapsulated haematoma, which is likely to have developed as a result of the ovariohysterectomy.
Palmoplantar hyperkeratosis in Irish terriers: evidence of autosomal recessive inheritance
Authors: Binder H. , Arnold S. , Schelling C. , Suter M. , Wild P.
Published: April 2008

An abnormal development of the epidermis of the footpad was observed in Irish terriers. At the age of six months, the affected animals developed smooth parchment‐like footpads. The pad epidermis then hardened and grew lateral cone‐like protrusions of up to 5 mm in diameter. Fissures and cracks developed and these predisposed the animal to secondary infection. The repeated occurrence in subsequent generations led to the assumption of a hereditary form of hyperkeratosis. Evidence for an autosomal recessive mode of inheritance was derived from a retrospective analysis of the breeder's records. The clinical, histopathological and ultrastructural features of the disease are presented and the genetic transmission and its implications discussed.
Use of the Ilizarov method to manage a septic tibial fracture nonunion with a large cortical defect
Authors: Owen M. A.
Published: April 2008

The use of a ‘hybridised’ llizarov ring fixator is described in the salvage of a septic nonunion of a comminuted tibial fracture with a large diaphyseal cortical sequestrum in an 11‐month‐old German shepherd dog. A ring fixator assembly incorporating half pin application was chosen to provide flexibility of fixation placement options in limited bonestock which had previously been subject to conventional Kirschner‐Ehmer external fixation. Diaphyseal regeneration was achieved by stimulating bone trophism through the axial loading properties of the Ilizarov fixator and the biological osteoinductive properties of cancellous bone autograft. The young age of the dog was considered to make it an optimal candidate for salvage in spite of its highly excitable temperament. Fully functional fracture union with resolution of osteomyelitis was achieved at eight weeks following revision without recourse to intercalary transportation or cortical grafting. Problems with postoperative management of the dog resulted in minor complications and mechanical failure of some of the frame components.
Use of magnetic resonance imaging for the investigation of orbital disease in small animals
Authors: Dennis R.
Published: April 2008

Twenty‐five small animal patients presenting with signs of orbital disease were investigated using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in an attempt to assess the value of this imaging technique for diagnosis. All patients were also examined using ultrasonography, and skull radiography was performed in 20 of these animals. The final diagnoses included neoplasia, inflammatory disease and foreign body penetration. MRI produced detailed images of orbital tissues and provided more information about the extent of pathology than the other imaging techniques; a correct diagnosis based solely on the MRI scan was made in 22 cases. Radiography was found to be helpful only in cases in which neoplastic disease extended markedly beyond the confines of the orbit into the nasal chamber and paranasal sinuses. Radiographic changes other than soft tissue swelling were not evident in other orbital disease processes. Ultrasonography gave both false negative and false positive diagnoses for neoplastic masses, although it allowed the correct diagnosis of both cases of foreign bodies and one of the three cases of retrobulbar abscesses in this series. MRI is recommended for patients in which radiography and ultrasonography fail to produce a confident diagnosis or for which surgery is proposed.
Factors influencing the incidence and prognosis of canine mammary tumours
Authors: Alenza M. D. Perez , Pena L. , Castillo N. del , Nieto A. I.
Published: April 2008

Factors relating to the incidence of canine mammary tumours are reviewed. Increased age, intact status or ovariectomy after 2.5 years of age, as well as progestagen treatment, can all lead to an increased risk of mammary neoplasia in the bitch. In addition, obesity early in life, and a habitual diet based on home‐made food (rich in beef and pork, and poor in chicken) as opposed to commercial food, are also associated with the occurrence of mammary tumours. Other aspects related to incidence are also discussed. Increased age at diagnosis, invasive growth (fixed to adjacent tissues), large tumour size, ulceration of skin, and axillary or inguinal node involvement are clinical parameters associated with a low chance of survival after surgical excision of mammary tumours. Histological typing and grading of the tumour allows the establishment of a prognosis, which is poor where there is tumour proliferation as measured by S‐phase fraction determination and Ki‐67 immunostaining.
Renal dysplasia in boxers and Finnish harriers
Authors: Hoppe A. , Karlstam E.
Published: April 2008

Puppies from two litters of dogs were found to have severe polyuria and polydipsia. Four of the dogs were investigated by means of clinical examination, haematological and biochemical analysis, and urinalysis. A modified water deprivation response test was also performed in two of the dogs. Renal changes on postmortem examination in three of the dogs were found to be consistent with renal dysplasia. A possible explanation for the finding of hyposthenuria and the extreme polyuria and polydipsia in association with renal dysplasia may be lack of response to antidiuretic hormone owing to anomalous maturation of the renal tubules. Six other puppies from the two litters of dogs did not show any clinical signs of polyuria and polydipsia, although postmortem examination in one of them also revealed renal dysplasia. The clinical features of renal dysplasia may therefore vary greatly between individuals.
Immunosuppression in bitches with pyometra
Authors: Faldyna M. , Laznicka A. , Toman M.
Published: April 2008

The function of the immune system was studied in 34 bitches affected by pyometra. The mean age of the animals was 8‐1 2–8 years. Samples of peripheral blood were examined using a battery of immunological tests. Data obtained from four sets of animals, grouped according to the severity of their disease, were compared. Leucocytosis (neutrophilia and partial monocytosis) and lymphopenia were detected in 62 per cent and 35 per cent of the bitches, respectively. The increase in the number of leucocytes was higher in the severely affected bitches. Inhibition of mitogen‐driven lymphocyte proliferation was the characteristic feature of the immunological profile in bitches affected by pyometra, and this corresponded with the impairment of the general state of health. Sera from bitches showing functional inhibition of lymphocytes suppressed the activity of lymphocytes isolated from normal dogs. Sera from bitches affected by pyometra also had higher levels of immunoglobulins, lysqzyme and circulating immune complexes. It can be concluded that pyometra Is associated with an inflammatory response, but also with a marked suppression of immune system activity.
Recent advances in external skeletal fixation
Authors: Lewis D. D. , Cross A. R. , Carmichael S. , Anderson M. A.
Published: April 2008

While the use of external skeletal fixation was once associated with substantial postoperative morbidity, clinical and experimental studies have led to technological advances and modifications in application techniques that have greatly improved the results obtained with this treatment modality. The past decade saw numerous advances in external skeletal fixator implants, components and instrumentation, including improvements in fixation pin design, and the development of new linear external skeletal fixation systems and economical circular external skeletal fixation systems specifically engineered for use in dogs and cats. In addition, a greater understanding of fixator biomechanics and the pathobiology of the bone‐fixation pin interface have improved fixator application practices. This article reviews many of the more significant recent advances in external skeletal fixation.
Incomplete ossification of the humeral condyle in two Labrador retrievers
Authors: Robin D. , Marcellin‐Little D. J.
Published: April 2008

Incomplete ossification of the humeral condyle (IOHC) was identified in two Labrador retrievers using computed tomography. Both dogs were non‐weightbearing on the affected forelimbs. The dogs were treated by means of a bone screw placed across the humeral condyle. IOHC was originally reported in spaniel and chondrodystrophic breeds. The pathogenesis of the condition remains unknown, but may be related to impaired antebrachial bone growth, similarly to the pathogeneses of elbow dysplasia and radius curvus.
Haemolytic anaemia and exercise intolerance due to phosphofructokinase deficiency in related springer spaniels
Authors: Skibild E. , Dahlgaard K. , Rajpurohit Y. , Smith B. F. , Giger U.
Published: April 2008

Phosphofructokinase (PFK) deficiency is an autosomal recessive inherited disorder in dogs causing haemolytic crises and exertional myopathy. The clinical signs may be confused with those of recurrent immune‐mediated haemolytic anaemia. The deficiency has been commonly observed in field trial (working) English springer spaniels (ESSPs), but also in the conformation line of ESSPs in the USA over the past two decades. This report documents the first family of ESSPs found with PFK deficiency in Europe. Two related adult ESSPs in Denmark had intermittent signs of pigmenturia after exercise (hunting) and had evidence of a regenerative haemolytic anaemia. Based upon DNA sequencing data, both dogs had the previously described nonsense point mutation in the muscle‐type PFK gene (A2228G >A). Study of 17 related family members using a simple and accurate PFK‐DNA test revealed one additional PFK‐deflcient dog (with minor exercise intolerance), nine carriers and seven normal (or ‘clear’) ESSPs. Recently, the authors have also identified PFK carriers and affected ESSPs in the UK. Screening for PFK deficiency is recommended for ESSPs with suspicious clinical signs and before using any for field trials or breeding in order to prevent the further spread of this hereditary disorder.
Prognostic variables in canine multicentric lymphosarcoma
Authors: Dobson J. M. , Blackwood L. B. , Mcinnes E. F. , Bostock D. E. , Nicholls P. , Hoather T. M. , Tom B. D. M
Published: April 2008

This paper presents the results of a prospective study to investigate the prognostic value of clinical staging, histological grading, immunophenotype, mitotic count and average numbers of argyrophilic nucleolar organiser region counts in dogs with multicentric lymphosarcoma treated with a standard chemotherapy protocol comprising vincristine, cyclophosphamide and prednisolone. Forty‐nine dogs were treated according to the study protocol. Univariate and multivariate analysis with regression modelling was used to evaluate the prognostic importance of patient and tumour variables upon tumour response and relapse‐free survival. Thirty‐seven dogs (76 per cent) achieved a complete remission, seven (14 per cent) a partial remission and five (10 per cent) failed to respond to treatment. None of the variables examined had a statistically significant effect upon tumour response. Tumour immunophenotype was the only parameter found to have a significant influence on patient survival, the hazard ratio for T‐cell versus B‐cell immunophenotype was 3–99 with 95 per cent confidence interval from 1–399 to 11–372, Pa0–035.
Photo‐induced Reactive Oxygen Species Generation by Different Water‐soluble Fullerenes (C60) and Their Cytotoxicity in Human Keratinocytes
Authors: Zhao Baozhong , Bilski Piotr J. , He Yu‐Ying , Feng Li , Chignell Colin F.
Published: April 2008

In this study we report the phototoxicity toward HaCaT keratinocytes that results from the photogeneration of superoxide and singlet oxygen (1O2) by four different “water‐soluble” fullerene (C60) preparations—monomeric (γ‐CyD)2/C60 (γ‐cyclodextrin bicapped C60) and three aggregated forms—THF/nC60 (prepared by solvent exchange from THF solution); Son/nC60 (prepared by sonication of a toluene/water mixture); and γ‐CyD/nC60 (prepared by heating the [γ‐CyD]2/C60 aqueous solution). Our results demonstrate that all four C60 preparations photogenerate 1O2 efficiently. However, the properties of C60‐generated 1O2, including its availability for reactions in solution, are markedly different for the monomeric and aggregated forms. 1O2 produced by monomeric (γ‐CyD)2/C60 is quenchable by NaN3 and its quantum yield in D2O, which is only weakly dependent on oxygen concentration, is as high as C60 in toluene. In contrast, 1O2 generated from aggregated C60 is not quenchable by NaN3, exhibits a solvent‐independent short‐lived lifetime (ca 2.9 μs), is highly sensitive to oxygen concentration while its phosphorescence is redshifted. All these features indicate that 1O2 is sequestered inside the C60 aggregates, which may explain why these preparations were not phototoxic toward HaCaT cells. Electron paramagnetic resonance studies demonstrated the generation of the C60 anion radical (C60•−) when (γ‐CyD)2/C60 was irradiated (λ > 300 nm) in the presence of a reducing agent (NADH); spin trapping experiments (λ > 400 nm) with 5,5‐dimethyl‐1‐pyrroline N‐oxide clearly showed the generation of superoxide resulting from the reaction of C60•− with oxygen. In vitro tests with HaCaT keratinocytes provided evidence that (γ‐CyD)2/C60 phototoxicity is mainly mediated by 1O2 (Type II mechanism) with only a minor contribution from free radicals (Type I mechanism).
A Cluster Randomized Trial to Evaluate Physician/Pharmacist Collaboration to Improve Blood Pressure Control
Authors: Carter Barry L. , Bergus George R. , Dawson Jeffrey D. , Farris Karen B. , Doucette William R. , Chrischilles Elizabeth A. , Hartz Arthur J.
Published: April 2008

This was a prospective, cluster randomized controlled trial in patients with uncontrolled hypertension aged 21 to 85 years (mean, 61 years). Pharmacists made recommendations to physicians for patients in the intervention clinics (n=101) but not patients in the control clinics (n=78). The mean adjusted difference in systolic blood pressure (BP) between the control and intervention groups was 8.7 mm Hg (95% confidence interval [CI], 4.4–12.9), while the difference in diastolic BP was 5.4 mm Hg (CI, 2.8–8.0) at 9 months. The 24‐hour BP levels showed similar effects, with a mean systolic BP level that was 8.8 mm Hg lower (CI, 5.0–12.6) and a mean diastolic BP level that was 4.6 mm Hg (CI, 2.4–6.8) lower in the intervention group. BP was controlled in 89.1% of patients in the intervention group and 52.9% in the control group (adjusted odds ratio, 8.9; CI, 3.8–20.7; P<.001). Physician/pharmacist collaboration achieved significantly better mean BP values and overall BP control rates, primarily by intensification of medication therapy and improving patient adherence.
The Use of Olmesartan Medoxomil as Monotherapy or in Combination With Other Antihypertensive Agents in Elderly Hypertensive Patients in Japan
Authors: Saito Ikuo , Kushiro Toshio , Hirata Koji , Sato Yuki , Kobayashi Fumiaki , Sagawa Kei , Hiramatsu Katsutoshi , Komiya Masahiro
Published: April 2008

The efficacy and safety of the angiotensin receptor blocker olmesartan medoxomil (OLM) was assessed in 550 elderly Japanese hypertensive patients who were followed for 24 weeks in daily clinical practice. Patients were given OLM alone or in combination with other antihypertensive drugs at the discretion of the investigators. After 24 weeks of treatment, systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP) significantly decreased from baseline (P<.0001). When patients were classified as either young‐old (65–74 years) or older‐old (75 years and older), with either isolated systolic hypertension (ISH) or systolic‐diastolic hypertension (SDH), the reduction of diastolic BP in ISH patients was significantly smaller than that in SDH patients (5.0 vs 15.2 mm Hg; P<.0001), indicating that OLM did not cause excessive reduction of diastolic BP in ISH patients. Treatment was well tolerated in all groups. In conclusion, the medication was safe and effective in reducing BP levels in ISH patients aged 75 years and older, as well as in other elderly hypertensive patients.
Efficacy of the Combination of Amlodipine and Valsartan in Patients With Hypertension Uncontrolled With Previous Monotherapy: The Exforge in Failure After Single Therapy (EX‐FAST) Study
Authors: Allemann Yves , Fraile Belen , Lambert Michel , Barbier Michaela , Ferber Philippe , Izzo Joseph L.
Published: April 2008

In this randomized, double‐blind, multicenter study, patients whose blood pressure (BP) was uncontrolled by monotherapy were switched directly to amlodipine/valsartan 5/160 mg (n=443) or 10/160 mg (n=451). After 16 weeks, BP control (levels <140/90 mm Hg or <130/80 mm Hg for diabetics) was achieved in 72.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], 68.6–76.9) of patients receiving amlodipine/valsartan 5/160 mg and in 74.8% (95% CI, 70.8–78.9) receiving amlodipine/valsartan 10/160 mg. Incremental reductions from baseline in mean sitting systolic and diastolic BP were significantly greater with the higher dose (20.0±0.7 vs 17.5±0.7 mm Hg; P=.0003 and 11.6±0.4 vs 10.4±0.4 mm Hg; P=.0046). Incremental BP reductions were also achieved with both regimens irrespective of previous monotherapy, hypertension severity, diabetic status, body mass index, and age. Peripheral edema was the most frequent adverse event. These results provide support for the BP‐lowering benefits of complementary antihypertensive therapy with amlodipine and valsartan in patients with hypertension uncontrolled by previous monotherapy.
Influence of Surface Parameters on the Elastoplastic Contact Behavior of Fractal-Regular Surfaces
Authors: Willner K.
Published: April 2008

In a recent paper (2004, “Elasto-Plastic Normal Contact of Three-Dimensional Fractal Surfaces Using Halfspace Theory,” J. Tribol., 126, pp. 28–33) the author developed a halfspace model for the elasto-plastic normal contact of rough surfaces. This model is now used to study the influence of intrinsic surface parameters on constitutive contact laws, such as load-gap relation and load-area relation, for a specific type of surface topography known as fractal-regular surfaces. Numerical investigations show that the fractal dimension has only minor influence on the load-gap relationship, which is mostly determined by the dimensionless ratio between the transition length and the rms values of the height data. Due to the fractal nature of the surfaces at the small wavelength limit, initial deformation will always be in the plastic range. The load-area relation becomes then completely independent of the geometric surface parameters and is determined by material properties alone, at least if the predicted plastic deformation occurs at a length scale larger than the atomic scale.
Experimental Study of Adhesive Static Friction in a Spherical Elastic-Plastic Contact
Authors: Ovcharenko A. , Halperin G. , Etsion I.
Published: April 2008

The elastic-plastic contact between a deformable sphere and a rigid flat during presliding is studied experimentally. Measurements of friction force and contact area are done in real time along with an accurate identification of the instant of sliding inception. The static friction force and relative tangential displacement are investigated over a wide range of normal preloads for several sphere materials and diameters. Different behavior of the static friction is observed in the elastic and in the elastic-plastic regimes of sphere deformation. It is found that at low normal loads, the static friction coefficient depends on the normal load in breach of the classical laws of friction. The presliding displacement is found to be less than 5% of the contact diameter, and the interface mean shear stress at sliding inception is found to be slightly below the shear strength of the sphere material. Good correlation is found between the present experimental results and a recent theoretical model in the elastic-plastic regime of deformation.
Design of an Endoscopic Full-Thickness Lesion Removal Device
Authors: McEuen S. , Tzeranis D. , Hemond B. , Dirckx M. , Lee L. , Slocum A.
Published: April 2008

Gastroenterologists would like to remove, through endoscopy, full-thickness lesions in the stomach, but currently there are no surgical devices capable of sealing the wound left after the lesion is removed. This paper describes the design, analysis, and prototyping of a device meant to address this problem. The device is intended to be used in conjunction with currently available endoscopes and comprises five key components including spikes, a beam, a hinge, a latch, and a positioning mechanism. Trials of positioning and placing a clamp on an in vitro pig stomach tissue were successfully completed.
Design Innovation Size and Shape Optimization of a 1.0mm Multifunctional Forceps-Scissors Surgical Instrument
Authors: Aguirre Milton E. , Frecker Mary
Published: April 2008

A size and shape optimization routine is developed for a 1.0mm diameter multifunctional instrument for minimally invasive surgery. The instrument is a compliant mechanism capable of both grasping and cutting. Multifunctional instruments are expected to be beneficial in the operating room because of their ability to perform multiple surgical tasks, thereby decreasing the total number of instrument exchanges in a single procedure. With fewer instrument exchanges, the risk of inadvertent tissue trauma as well as overall surgical time and costs are reduced. The focus of this paper is to investigate the performance effects of allowing the cross-sectional area along the length of the device to vary. This investigation is accomplished by defining various cross-sectional segments in terms of parametric variables and optimizing the dimensions of the instrument to provide a sufficient opening of the forceps jaws while maintaining adequate cutting and grasping forces. Two optimization problems are considered. First, all parametric segments are set equal to one another to achieve size optimization. Second, each segment is allowed to vary independently, thereby achieving shape optimization. Large deformation finite element analysis and optimization are conducted using ANSYS®. Finally, prototypes are fabricated using wire EMD and experiments are conducted to evaluate the instrument performance. As a result of allowing the cross-sectional area to vary, i.e., conducting shape optimization, the forceps and scissors blocked forces increased by as much as 83.2% and 87%, respectively. During prototype evaluations, it is found that the finite element analysis predictions were within 10% of the measured tool performance. Therefore, for this application, it is concluded that performing shape optimization does significantly influence the performance of the instrument.
Similarity Solution of Unaxisymmetric Heat Transfer in Stagnation-Point Flow on a Cylinder With Simultaneous Axial and Rotational Movements
Authors: Rahimi Asghar B. , Saleh Reza
Published: April 2008

Similarity solution of unaxisymmetric heat transfer of an unsteady viscous flow in the vicinity of an axisymmetric stagnation point of an infinite circular cylinder with simultaneous axial and rotational movement along with transpiration Uo is investigated when the angular velocity, axial velocity, and wall temperature or wall heat flux vary arbitrarily with time. The impinging free stream is steady and with a strain rate of k¯. The results presented are found by numerical integration. The local coefficient of heat transfer (Nusselt number) is found to be independent of time and place, though the cylinder wall temperature or wall heat flux are functions of both time and place.
A Graph-Based Fault Identification and Propagation Framework for Functional Design of Complex Systems
Authors: Kurtoglu Tolga , Tumer Irem Y.
Published: April 2008

In this paper, the functional-failure identification and propagation (FFIP) framework is introduced as a novel approach for evaluating and assessing functional-failure risk of physical systems during conceptual design. The task of FFIP is to estimate potential faults and their propagation paths under critical event scenarios. The framework is based on combining hierarchical system models of functionality and configuration, with behavioral simulation and qualitative reasoning. The main advantage of the method is that it allows the analysis of functional failures and fault propagation at a highly abstract system concept level before any potentially high-cost design commitments are made. As a result, it provides the designers and system engineers with a means of designing out functional failures where possible and designing in the capability to detect and mitigate failures early on in the design process. Application of the presented method to a fluidic system example demonstrates these capabilities.
Distributed System Development Risk Analysis
Authors: Leung Peter , Ishii Kosuke , Abell Jeffrey , Benson Jan
Published: April 2008

Under the current trend of globalization, companies develop products not only to target a single market but to sell them to the entire world. Companies realize the importance of collaborative design, or workshare, to develop global regional engineering centers to balance design variations while ensuring local market success. This paradigm shift enables diverse customer values to be integrated into products but also introduces challenges in the management of work distribution. Extensive industry case studies have shown that capability and capacity of the regional centers drive the workshare decisions; however, this strategy overlooks the interdependence of the design systems causing many delays and quality problems. Seeing the opportunity, this paper presents a method to identify and to quantify the system-level workshare risk based on the couplings of system components to evaluate the overall workshare scenarios. The risk analysis consists of two key elements in terms of two relationships, the division of work for distributions (i.e., component coupling) and the work assignments of the distributed teams (i.e., workshare coupling), as well as an algorithm to combine the relationships to calculate the workshare risk. To illustrate the steps of the risk analysis, this paper applies it to a hair dryer design as a case study. The paper also discusses the usages and characteristics of the risk analysis, and concludes with the future research and the next steps of generalizing the method to other product development projects.
Detection-theoretic analysis of the observer-based psychophysical procedure
Authors: Arora Raman , Lutfi Robert A.
Published: April 2008

The observer-based procedure, used in research applications to measure the hearing sensitivity of young infants, is analyzed within the framework of a two-stage (infant-judge) detection model involving a minimum number of assumptions. The model is taken to develop convergence theorems useful for estimating the number of judges and/or trials required to achieve a desired level of accuracy using the procedure. The model is also used to consider ways in which bias in estimates, known to be associated with the procedure, might be evaluated and reduced. Finally, a method is proposed by which the results of the analysis and different procedural variations designed to improve estimates can be evaluated empirically.
The performance of active control of random noise in cars
Authors: Mohammad Janatul I. , Elliott Stephen J. , Mackay Andy
Published: April 2008

This letter investigates the effectiveness of various configurations of reference sensors for feedforward active control systems in vehicles using unconstrained frequency domain optimization. The results from a model problem are based on a fully coupled analysis between the vibration of a car panel and an enclosed acoustic field. These suggest that with correct locations, only a small number of microphones or accelerometers are needed to give good overall performance, despite many uncorrelated primary disturbances being present. Similar results are predicted from road test data.
Piezoacoustic wave spectra using improved surface impedance matrix: Application to high impedance-contrast layered plates
Authors: Zhang Victor Y. , Dubus Bertrand , Collet Bernard , Destrade Michel
Published: April 2008

Starting from the general modal solutions for a homogeneous layer of arbitrary material and crystalline symmetry, a matrix formalism is developed to establish the semianalytical expressions of the surface impedance matrices (SIM) for a single piezoelectric layer. By applying the electrical boundary conditions, the layer impedance matrix is reduced to a unified elastic form whether the material is piezoelectric or not. The characteristic equation for the dispersion curves is derived in both forms of a three-dimensional acoustic SIM and of an electrical scalar function. The same approach is extended to multilayered structures such as a piezoelectric layer sandwiched in between two metallic electrodes, a Bragg coupler, and a semi-infinite substrate as well. The effectiveness of the approach is numerically demonstrated by its ability to determine the full spectra of guided modes, even at extremely high frequencies, in layered plates comprising up to four layers and three materials. Negative slope in f–k curve for some modes, asymptotic behavior at short wavelength regime, as well as wave confinement phenomena made evident by the numerical results are analyzed and interpreted in terms of the surface acoustic waves and of the interfacial waves in connection with the bulk waves in massive materials.
Comment on “Silent research vessels are not quiet” [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 121, EL145–EL150]
Authors: Sand Olav , Karlsen Hans Erik , Knudsen Frank R.
Published: April 2008

The recent paper by Ona et al. [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 121, EL145–EL150] compared avoidance reactions by herring (Clupea harengus) to a traditional and a “silent” research vessel. Surprisingly, the latter evoked the strongest avoidance, leading to the conclusion that “candidate stimuli for vessel avoidance remain obscure.” In this Comment, it is emphasized that the otolith organs in fish are linear acceleration detectors with extreme sensitivity to infrasonic particle acceleration. Near-field particle motions generated by a moving hull are mainly in the infrasonic range, and infrasound is particularly potent in evoking directional avoidance responses in several species of fish. The stimuli initiating vessel avoidance may thus include infrasonic particle acceleration.
Modeling the acoustic radiation force in microfluidic chambers
Authors: Fisher Karl A. , Miles Robin
Published: April 2008

A procedure is demonstrated to quantitatively evaluate the acoustic radiation forces in microfluidic particle manipulation chambers. Typical estimates of the acoustic pressure and the acoustic radiation force are based on an analytical solution for a simple one-dimensional standing wave pattern. The complexities of a typical microfluidic channel limit the usefulness of this approach. By leveraging finite elements, and a generalized equation for the acoustic radiation force, channel designs can be investigated in two and three dimensions. Calculations and experimental observations in this report and the literature, confirm these claims.
Evaluation of acoustical conditions for speech communication in working elementary school classrooms
Authors: Sato Hiroshi , Bradley John S.
Published: April 2008

Detailed acoustical measurements were made in 41 working elementary school classrooms near Ottawa, Canada to obtain more representative and more accurate indications of the acoustical quality of conditions for speech communication during actual teaching activities. This paper describes the room acoustics characteristics and noise environment of 27 traditional rectangular classrooms from the 41 measured rooms. The purpose of the work was to better understand how to improve speech communication between teachers and students. The study found, that on average, the students experienced: teacher speech levels of 60.4dBA, noise levels of 49.1dBA, and a mean speech-to-noise ratio of 11dBA during teaching activities. The mean reverberation time in the occupied classrooms was 0.41s, which was 10% less than in the unoccupied rooms. The reverberation time measurements were used to determine the average absorption added by each student. Detailed analyses of early and late-arriving speech sounds showed these sound levels could be predicted quite accurately and suggest improved approaches to room acoustics design.
The intelligibility of speech in elementary school classrooms
Authors: Bradley J. S. , Sato H.
Published: April 2008

This is the second of two papers describing the results of acoustical measurements and speech intelligibility tests in elementary school classrooms. The intelligibility tests were performed in 41 classrooms in 12 different schools evenly divided among grades 1, 3, and 6 students (nominally 6, 8, and 11 year olds). Speech intelligibility tests were carried out on classes of students seated at their own desks in their regular classrooms. Mean intelligibility scores were significantly related to signal-to-noise ratios and to the grade of the students. While the results are different than those from some previous laboratory studies that included less realistic conditions, they agree with previous in-classroom experiments. The results indicate that +15dB signal-to-noise ratio is not adequate for the youngest children. By combining the speech intelligibility test results with measurements of speech and noise levels during actual teaching situations, estimates of the fraction of students experiencing near-ideal acoustical conditions were made. The results are used as a basis for estimating ideal acoustical criteria for elementary school classrooms.