Association of birth factors with subsequent developmental disability: effectiveness in predicting severity as measured by the PEDI.

Objective: To determine if specific birth factors can be used to predict a subsequent disability and severity level in self-care, mobility and social function as measured by the Paediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI).

Design: This cross-sectional study design used retrospective data from birth records and concurrent data from PEDI scores.

Method: Sixty children (20 per group) were selected representing groups consistent with typical development, sensory processing disorders or physical disability.

Difference in incisional complications following exploratory celiotomies using antibacterial-coated suture material for subcutaneous closure: Prospective randomised study in 100 horses.

Reasons For Performing Study: Incisional complications are a major post operative challenge following ventral midline exploratory celiotomy for abdominal pain in horses. They lead to discomfort, prolonged hospitalisation, longer recovery times and increased cost; therefore, investigation of preventative procedures are warranted.

Objectives: To determine the clinical effect of antibacterial (triclosan) coated 2-0 polyglactin 910 suture material on the likelihood of incisional infections when used for closure of subcutaneous tissue following ventral midline celiotomies in horses.

What did we learn about national organizational collaboration at the advisory committee level?

This article provides an overview of the typical roles and tasks of advisory groups in general, followed by a discussion of the roles and tasks the Interdisciplinary Generalist Curriculum (IGC) Project Advisory Committee was asked to assume and how these were fulfilled. It analyzes the lessons learned about advisory committees as a result of the IGC Project experience. Key elements of success in fulfilling advisory committee obligations include well-defined expectations, periodic evaluations, and clear communication between project leadership and the members of the advisory committee.

Physicians in service to the underserved: an analysis of the practice locations of alumni of Western University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, 1982-1995.

Purpose: To determine how many osteopathic medical graduates (DOs) of the Western University of Health Sciences were practicing in underserved communities.

Method: Practice address information was available for 765 of the 850 practicing DO alumni who had graduated from the University from 1982 through 1995. Alumni were categorized as practicing in underserved areas or not, following federally established guidelines; they were also categorized by gender, ethnicity, and medical specialty.