Ultrasound shear wave elastography measurement of the deep posterior cervical muscles: Reliability and ability to differentiate between muscle contraction states.

The deep posterior cervical muscles (DPCM), specifically the semispinalis cervicis and cervical multifidus, are often impaired in patients with neck disorders and have been assessed by several imaging techniques. Prior ultrasound shear wave elastography (SWE) imaging and reliability assessments of the DPCM were performed utilizing similar positioning as assessments for the more superficial cervical extensors. Our objectives were to describe an SWE imaging technique for the DPCM, establish intra-rater reliability of DPCM SWE, and compare DPCM shear modulus during rest and submaximal contraction in both prone and seated positions in individuals without spinal pain.

Considerations for determining optimal mouse caging density.

At the 2006 National Meeting of the American Association of Laboratory Animal Science, a panel discussed the question of what constitutes optimal or acceptable housing density for mice. Though there is a consensus that present guidelines are somewhat arbitrarily defined, scientific research has not yet been able to provide clear recommendations for amending them. Speakers explored the many factors that influence decisions on mouse housing, including regulatory requirements, scientific data and their interpretation, financial considerations and ethical concerns.

Frequently asked questions about the public health service policy on humane care and use of laboratory animals.

The authors answer eight questions commonly asked of the Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare concerning Public Health Service Policy on Humane Care of Use of Laboratory Animals.

Correct conduct of full-committee and designated-member protocol reviews.

Only two protocol review methods fulfill USDA and PHS requirements-full committee and designated member. The author attempts to lessen the confusion surrounding this issue by describing these methods, along with examples of faulty hybrids and convenient strategies to bring unacceptable methods into compliance.