bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does Adding Computed Tomography Change the Diagnosis and Treatment of Tillaux and Triplane Pediatric Ankle Fractures?
Authors: Liporace Frank A. , Yoon Richard S. , Kubiak Erik N. , Parisi Debra M. , Koval Kenneth J. , Feldman David S. , Egol Kenneth A.
Published: February 2012

Computed tomography (CT) has been deemed a necessary part of management for Tillaux and triplane pediatric ankle fractures. However, no previously published study has attempted to quantify its usefulness in changing management. Six third-party, blinded orthopedic surgeons (F.A.L., E.N.K., D.M.P., K.J.K., D.S.F., K.A.E.) were randomly assigned to evaluate 24 pediatric Tillaux or triplane fractures with plain radiographs; after 6 months, they were again randomly assigned to evaluate the 24 radiographs plus CT scans, totaling 144 third-party, blinded evaluations. Intra- and interobserver agreements were assessed via correlation coefficient analysis. Evaluation of CT scans changed the original diagnosis of fracture type from Tillaux to triplane fracture in 7 (4.9%) of 144 evaluations. Inter- and intraobserver agreements regarding primary treatment plans did not significantly differ between radiographs and radiographs plus CT scans (0.5 vs 0.4, respectively;
P
>.05). The addition of CT did not significantly change the impression of the amount of displacement per case. By adding CT, more patients who were assigned nonoperative management were reassigned to operative treatment (
P
=.033). Adding CT, although it may influence the decision to operate on Tillaux and triplane fractures, may not be as useful as previously thought.
Pelvic Resections
Authors: Mavrogenis Andreas F. , Soultanis Konstantinos , Patapis Pavlos , Guerra Giovanni , Fabbri Nicola , Ruggieri Pietro , Papagelopoulos Panayiotis J.
Published: February 2012

The complexity of pelvic anatomy and the extent of tumor growth makes treatment of patients with primary bone sarcomas in the pelvis difficult in terms of local control. Before the 1970s, most tumors in the bony pelvis were surgically treated with hindquarter amputation. Currently, improved techniques for clinical staging, adjuvant treatments, evolutions in metallurgy, and development of new surgical techniques make limb-salvage surgery and reconstruction possible alternatives to hemipelvectomy and resection–arthrodesis. The advantages of amputation over resections at the pelvis are a lower incidence of complications, a limited area at risk for recurrence, and a faster recovery time compared with all but the most limited pelvic resections. The disadvantages, especially after periacetabular resections, are leg-length discrepancy and impaired hip and gait function. The indication for limb salvage is the ability to obtain wide margins without compromising survival and function. Although having to resect the sciatic nerve to obtain adequate margins does not always mean that an amputation should be performed, the combination of a major pelvic resection and the functional consequences of sciatic nerve resection results in an extremity usually not worth saving; loss of femoral nerve function does not result in a significant gait disturbance, especially if the hemipelvis is stable. Reconstruction options after major pelvic resections have also evolved, but they remain difficult, especially when the acetabulum is involved.
Láser escáner y nubes de puntos. Un horizonte aplicado al análisis arqueológico de edificios
Authors: García-Gómez Ismael , Fernández de Gorostiza Miren , Mesanza Moraza Amaia
Published: February 2012

En el siguiente artículo analizamos uno de los más modernos instrumentos de documentación gráfica del patrimonio, el láser escáner. Aunque profundizaremos en todos aquellos aspectos técnicos, logísticos y de método relativos a su empleo, nos centraremos en su efectiva aplicabilidad dentro del campo de la Arqueología de la Arquitectura, incidiendo en aquellas capacidades diagnósticas que pueden ayudar al estratígrafo a determinar la secuencia evolutiva de un edificio. Tomaremos como base nuestra experiencia en la iglesia de San Miguel de Vitoria-Gasteiz.
La división del trabajo doméstico en las parejas españolas. Un análisis de uso del tiempo
Authors: Domínguez Folgueras Marta
Published: February 2012

Este artículo compara la distribución del trabajo doméstico en las parejas españolas casadas y cohabitantes, contrastando las hipótesis sobre recursos relativos frente a la construcción de género y considerando si el tipo de pareja influye en la igualdad del reparto de tareas. Para examinar el grado de igualdad, se considera no sólo la contribución de cada miembro de la pareja al tiempo dedicado a las tareas, sino también quién hace qué: ciertas tareas son más restrictivas que otras y se investiga si hay diferencias de género y pareja asociadas a ellas. Los datos estudiados proceden de la Encuesta de Empleo del Tiempo (2002-2003) y se analizan mediante modelos de regresión lineal. Nuestros resultados muestran que las parejas cohabitantes tienen una división del trabajo doméstico más igualitaria, y las parejas homosexuales una división característica.
Una inyección sociológica al modelo de aceptación de la tecnología. Respuesta a nuestros críticos
Authors: Torres Albero Cristóbal , Robles Morales José Manuel , Molina Molina Óscar
Published: February 2012

No disponible
Pseudo-Tumoral Hepatic Tuberculosis Discovered After Surgical Resection
Authors: Nizar Miloudi , Zeineb Mzoughi , Sadri Ben Abid , Safa Sabbagh , Lobna Marsaoui , Nafaa Arfa , Lassaad Gharbi , Taher Khalfallah Mohamed
Published: February 2012

Pseudo-tumoral hepatic tuberculosis is rare. It is characterized by non-specific symptoms and radiological polymorphism. Diagnosis is problematic. This article presents three cases, each clinically different from each other, that illustrate how difficult diagnosis can be. The definitive diagnosis of pseudo-tumoral hepatic tuberculosis was reached on the basis of histological examination of surgical samples. Treatment of the disease based on appropriate anti-tubercular therapy generally gives a positive outcome.
Immediate Results of Percutaneous Trans-Luminal Mitral Commissurotomy in Pregnant Women with Severe Mitral Stenosis
Authors: Abdi Seyfollah , Salehi Negar , Ghodsi Babak , Basiri Hossein Ali , Momtahen Mahmoud , Firouzi Ata , Sanati Hamid Reza , Shakerian Farshad , Maadani Mohsen , Bakhshandeh Homan , Chamanian Soheila , Chitsazan Mitra , Vakili-Zarch Anoushiravan
Published: February 2012

Background

Valvular heart diseases and mainly rheumatic heart diseases complicate about 1% of pregnancies. During pregnancy physiological hemodynamic changes of the circulation are the main cause of mitral stenosis (MS) decompensation. Prior to introduction of percutaneous mitral balloon commissuroplasty (PTMC), surgical comissurotomy was the preferred method of treatment in patients with refractory symptoms. PTMC is an established non-surgical treatment of rheumatic mitral stenosis. The study aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of PTMC in pregnant women with severs mitral stenosis.

Material and Method

Thirty three consecutive patients undergoing PTMC during pregnancy enrolled in this prospective study. Mitral valve area (MVA), transmitral valve gradient (MVG), and severity of mitral regurgitation (MR) were assessed before and 24 hour after the procedure by transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography. Mitral valve morphology was evaluated before the procedure using Wilkin's criteria. Patient followed for one month and neonates monitored for weight and height and adverse effect of radiation.

Result

Mitral valve area increased from 0.83 ± 0.13 cm2 to 1.38 ± 0.29 cm2 ( P = 0.007). Mean gradient of mitral valve decreased from 15.5 ± 7.4 mmHg to 2.3 ± 2.3 mmHg ( P = <0.001). Pulmonary artery pressure decreased from 65.24 ± 17.9 to 50.45 ± 15.33 ( P = 0.012). No maternal death, abortion, intrauterine growth restriction was observed and only one stillbirth occurred.

Conclusion

PTMC in pregnant women has favorable outcome and no harmful effect on children noted.
Malignant Ovarian Tumors with Induced Expression of Carbonyl Reductase Show Spontaneous Regression
Authors: Wang Hui , Yokoyama Yoshihito , Tsuchida Shigeki , Mizunuma Hideki
Published: February 2012

Background

The present study investigated tumor proliferation in a tumor model using murine ovarian cancer cells with increased carbonyl reductase (CR) expression.

Methods

CR cDNA was transfected into murine T-Ag-MOSE ovarian cancer cells by lipofection. CR-transfected cells (CR induction group) or empty vector-treated cells (control group) were injected into the backs of 8-week-old nude mice at a concentration of 0.5 × 10 6 per 0.2 mL. Subsequent tumor proliferation in both groups was observed for 5 weeks.

Results

The control group showed an increase in tumor volume during the 5 weeks of observation. However, tumor volume in the CR induction group increased up to the second week but then decreased continuously until the fifth week of observation. The tumor growth curves for the two groups showed a significant difference (Mann-Whitney U test, P < 0.001). Histological and biochemical experiments were performed using tumor tissues isolated in the third week. Necrosis and inflammatory cell infiltration were noted for tumors in the CR induction group. Also, the number of apoptotic cells was significantly increased in the CR induction group compared with the control group ( P < 0.001). Milk fat globule EGF factor 8, an “eat-me” signal for phagocytes such as macrophages, was expressed extensively in the tumor cytoplasm and interstitial cells of the CR induction group, and engulfment of apoptotic cells by macrophages was observed. Vascular endothelial growth factor expression in tumors was notably decreased in the CR induction group compared with the control group.

Conclusion

Increased necrosis due to engulfing of apoptotic cells by phagocytes attracted by increased milk fat globule EGF factor 8 was considered to be the mechanism of spontaneous tumor regression in the CR induction group.
Factors Associated with Dengue Mortality in Latin America and the Caribbean, 1995–2009: An Ecological Study
Authors: Díaz-Quijano Fredi Alexander , Waldman Eliseu Alves
Published: February 2012

In this study, we aimed to estimate the effect that environmental, demographic, and socioeconomic factors have on dengue mortality in Latin America and the Caribbean. To that end, we conducted an observational ecological study, analyzing data collected between 1995 and 2009. Dengue mortality rates were highest in the Caribbean (Spanish-speaking and non-Spanish-speaking). Multivariate analysis through Poisson regression revealed that the following factors were independently associated with dengue mortality: time since identification of endemicity (adjusted rate ratio [aRR] = 3.2 [for each 10 years]); annual rainfall (aRR = 1.5 [for each 103 L/m2]); population density (aRR = 2.1 and 3.2 for 20–120 inhabitants/km2 and > 120 inhabitants/km2, respectively); Human Development Index > 0.83 (aRR = 0.4); and circulation of the dengue 2 serotype (aRR = 1.7). These results highlight the important role that environmental, demographic, socioeconomic, and biological factors have played in increasing the severity of dengue in recent decades.
An Unusual Cutaneous Tumor: African Histoplasmosis following Mudbaths: Case Report and Review
Authors: Tsiodras Sotirios , Drogari-Apiranthitou Miranda , Pilichos Konstantinos , Leventakos Konstantinos , Kelesidis Theodoros , Buitrago Maria Jose , Petrikkos Georgios , Panayiotides Ioannis
Published: February 2012

African histoplasmosis, caused by Histoplasma capsulatum var. duboisii, is endemic in Africa. The disease usually involves the skin, subcutaneous tissue, and bones. A case of African histoplasmosis presenting as a cutaneous tumor and non-healing wound in a 66-year-old immunocompetent male residing in Africa, the first ever reported following mudbaths and acupuncture, is hereby reported. Diagnosis was confirmed by means of polymerase chain reaction performed on tissue material. The patient was started on long-term itraconazole therapy and he responded well. African histoplasmosis should be included in the differential diagnosis of non-healing wounds or tumor-like lesions, especially in the context of mudbaths in an endemic area.
Spatial and seasonal variability of PM2.5 acidity at two Chinese megacities: insights into the formation of secondary inorganic aerosols
Authors: He K. , Zhao Q. , Ma Y. , Duan F. , Yang F. , Shi Z. , Chen G.
Published: February 2012

Abstract. Aerosol acidity is one of the most important parameters influencing atmospheric chemistry and physics. Based on continuous field observations from January 2005 to May 2006 and thermodynamic modeling, we investigated the spatial and seasonal variations in PM2.5 acidity in two megacities in China, Beijing and Chongqing. Spatially, PM2.5 was generally more acidic in Chongqing than in Beijing, but a reverse spatial pattern was found within the two cities, with more acidic PM2.5 at the urban site in Beijing whereas the rural site in Chongqing. Ionic compositions of PM2.5 revealed that it was the higher concentrations of NO3− at the urban site in Beijing and the lower concentrations of Ca2+ within the rural site in Chongqing that made their PM2.5 more acidic. Temporally, PM2.5 was more acidic in summer and fall than in winter, while in the spring of 2006, the acidity of PM2.5 was higher in Beijing but lower in Chongqing than that in 2005. These were attributed to the more efficient formation of nitrate relative to sulfate as a result of the influence of Asian desert dust in 2006 in Beijing and the greater wet deposition of ammonium compared to sulfate and nitrate in 2005 in Chongqing. Furthermore, simultaneous increase of PM2.5 acidity was observed from spring to early summer of 2005 in both cities. This synoptic-scale evolution of PM2.5 acidity was accompanied by the changes in air masses origins, which were influenced by the movements of a subtropical high over the northwestern Pacific in early summer. Finally, the correlations between [NO3−]/[SO42−] and [NH4+]/[SO42−] suggests that under conditions of high aerosol acidity, heterogeneous reactions became one of the major pathways for the formation of nitrate at both cities. These findings provided new insights in our understanding of the spatial and temporal variations in aerosol acidity in Beijing and Chongqing, as well as those reported in other cities in China.
Signals of El Niño Modoki in the tropical tropopause layer and stratosphere
Authors: Xie F. , Li J. , Tian W. , Feng J.
Published: February 2012

Abstract. The effects of El Niño Modoki events on the tropical tropopause layer (TTL) and on the stratosphere were investigated using European Center for Medium Range Weather Forecasting (ECMWF) reanalysis data, satellite observations from the Aura satellite Microwave Limb Sounder (MLS), oceanic El Niño indices, and general climate model outputs. El Niño Modoki events tend to depress convective activities in the western and eastern Pacific but enhance convective activities in the central and northern Pacific. Consequently, during Modoki events, negative water vapor anomalies occur in the western and eastern Pacific upper troposphere, whereas there are positive anomalies in the central and northern Pacific upper troposphere. The spatial patterns of the outgoing longwave radiation (OLR) and upper tropospheric water vapor anomalies exhibit a tripolar form. The empirical orthogonal function (EOF) analysis of the OLR and upper tropospheric water vapor anomalies reveals that canonical El Niño events are associated with the leading mode of the EOF, while El Niño Modoki events correspond to the second mode. El Niño Modoki activities tend to moisten the lower and middle stratosphere, but dry the upper stratosphere. It was also found that the canonical El Niño signal can overlay linearly on the QBO signal in the stratosphere, whereas the interaction between the El Niño Modoki and QBO signals is non-linear. Because of these non-linear interactions, El Niño Modoki events have a reverse effect on high latitudes stratosphere, as compared with the effects of typical Modoki events, i.e. the northern polar vortex is stronger and colder but the southern polar vortex is weaker and warmer during El Niño Modoki events. However, simulations suggest that canonical El Niño and El Niño Modoki activities actually have the same influence on high latitudes stratosphere, in the absence of interactions between QBO and ENSO signals. The present results also reveal that canonical El Niño events have a greater impact on the high-latitude Northern Hemisphere stratosphere than on the high-latitude Southern Hemisphere stratosphere. However, El Niño Modoki events can more profoundly influence the high-latitude Southern Hemisphere stratosphere than the high-latitude Northern Hemisphere stratosphere.
Biogenic influence on cloud microphysics over the global ocean
Authors: Lana A. , Simó R. , Vallina S. M. , Dachs J.
Published: February 2012

Abstract. Aerosols have a large potential to influence climate through their effects on the microphysics and optical properties of clouds and, hence, on the Earth's radiation budget. Aerosol-cloud interactions have been intensively studied in polluted air, but the possibility that the marine biosphere plays a role in regulating cloud brightness in the pristine oceanic atmosphere remains largely unexplored. We used 9 yr of global satellite data and ocean climatologies to derive parameterizations of (a) production fluxes of sulfur aerosols formed by the oxidation of the biogenic gas dimethylsulfide emitted from the sea surface; (b) production fluxes of secondary organic aerosols from biogenic organic volatiles; (c) emission fluxes of biogenic primary organic aerosols ejected by wind action on sea surface; and (d) emission fluxes of sea salt also lifted by the wind upon bubble bursting. Series of global weekly estimates of these fluxes were correlated to series of cloud droplet effective radius data derived from satellite (MODIS). Similar analyses were conducted in more detail at 6 locations spread among polluted and clean regions of the oceanic atmosphere. The outcome of the statistical analysis was that negative correlation was common at mid and high latitude for sulfur and organic secondary aerosols, indicating both might be important in seeding cloud droplet activation. Conversely, primary aerosols (organic and sea salt) showed more variable, non-significant or positive correlations, indicating that, despite contributing to large shares of the marine aerosol mass, they are not major drivers of the variability of cloud microphysics. Uncertainties and synergisms are discussed, and recommendations of research needs are given.
Climatological perspectives of air transport from atmospheric boundary layer to tropopause layer over Asian monsoon regions during boreal summer inferred from Lagrangian approach
Authors: Chen B. , Xu X. D. , Yang S. , Zhao T. L.
Published: February 2012

Abstract. The Asian Summer Monsoon (ASM) region has been recognized as a key region that plays a vital role in troposphere-to-stratosphere transport (TST), which can significantly impact the budget of global atmospheric constituents and climate change. However, the details of transport from the boundary layer (BL) to tropopause layer (TL) over this region, particularly from a climatological perspective, remains an issue of uncertainty. In this study, we present the climatological properties of BL-to-TL transport over the ASM region during boreal summer season (June-July-August) from 2001 to 2009. A comprehensive tracking analysis is conducted based on a large ensemble of TST-trajectories departing from the atmospheric BL and arriving at TL. Driven by the winds fields from the NCEP/NCAR (National Centers for Environmental Prediction/National Center for Atmospheric Research) Global Forecast System, all TST-trajectories are selected from the high resolution datasets generated by the Lagrangian particle transport model FLEXPART using a domain-filling technique. Three key atmospheric boundary layer sources for BL-to-TL transport are identified with their contributions: (i) 38% from the region between tropical Western Pacific region and South China Seas (WP), (ii) 21% from Bay of Bengal and South Asian subcontinent (BOB), and (iii) 12% from the Tibetan Plateau, which includes the South Slope of the Himalayas (TIB). Controlled by the different patterns of atmospheric circulation, the air masses originating from these three source regions are transported along the different tracks into the TL. The spatial distributions of these three source regions remain similarly from year to year. The timescales of transport from BL to TL by the large-scale ascents range from 1 to 7 weeks, contributing up to 60–70% of the overall TST; whereas the transport governed by the deep convection overshooting becomes faster, with timescales of 1–2 days and contributions of 20–30%. These results provide clear policy implications for the control of very short lived substances, especially for the source regions over the Indian subcontinent with increasing populations and developing industries.
The influence of vegetation on the ITCZ and South Asian Monsoon in HadCM3
Authors: McCarthy M. P. , Sanjay J. , Booth B. B. B. , Krishna Kumar K. , Betts R. A.
Published: February 2012

Abstract. The role of extra-tropical vegetation on the large-scale tropical circulation is examined in the version 3 Hadley Centre Climate Model (HadCM3). Alternative representations of present day vegetation from observations and a dynamic vegetation model were used as the land-cover component for a number of HadCM3 experiments under a nominal present day climate state, and are shown to induce perturbations to the simulated global dynamics. This results in a shift in the location of the Inter Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) and changes in the South Asian monsoon circulation. This has a significant impact on the Indian land precipitation compared to the standard configuration of HadCM3. This large-scale forcing is consistent with documented mechanisms relating to temperature and snow perturbations in the Northern Hemisphere extra-tropics. This analysis demonstrates that uncertainties in the representation of present day vegetation cover can result in significant perturbations to the simulated climate. The role of the Northern Hemisphere extra-tropics is further demonstrated with a fourth representation of vegetation cover produced by imposing simulated changes in Northern Hemisphere extra-tropical vegetation from the end of the 21st century on the present day climate. This experiment shows that through similar processes extra-tropical vegetation changes in the future contribute to a strengthening of the South Asian monsoon in this model, with a particular influence on the monsoon onset. These findings provide renewed motivation to give careful consideration to the role of global scale vegetation feedbacks when looking at climate change and its impact on the tropics and South Asian monsoon in the latest generation of Earth System models.
A 18-yr long (1993–2011) snow and meteorological dataset from a mid-altitude mountain site (Col de Porte, France, 1325 m alt.) for driving and evaluating snowpack models
Authors: Morin S. , Lejeune Y. , Lesaffre B. , Panel J.-M. , Poncet D. , David P. , Sudul M.
Published: February 2012

Abstract. A quality-controlled snow and meteorological dataset spanning the period 1 August 1993–31 July 2011 is presented, originating from the experimental station Col de Porte (1325 m altitude, Chartreuse range, France). Emphasis is placed on meteorological data relevant to the observation and modelling of the seasonal snowpack. In-situ driving data, at the hourly resolution, consist in measurements of air temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, incoming short-wave and long-wave radiation, precipitation rate partitioned between snow- and rainfall, with a focus on the snow-dominated season. Meteorological data for the three summer months (generally from 10 June to 20 September), when the continuity of the field record is not warranted, are taken from a local meteorological reanalysis (SAFRAN), in order to provide a continuous and consistent gap-free record. Evaluation data are provided at the daily (snow depth, snow water equivalent, runoff and albedo) and hourly (snow depth, albedo, runoff, surface temperature, soil temperature) time resolution. Internal snowpack information are provided from weekly manual snowpit observations (mostly consisting in penetration resistance, snow type, snow temperature and density profiles) and from a hourly record of temperature and height of vertically free "settling" disks. This dataset has been partially used in the past to assist in developing snowpack model and is presented here comprehensively for the purpose of multi-year model performance assessment. The data is placed on the PANGAEA repository (http://doi.pangaea.de/10.1594/PANGAEA.774249) as well as on the public ftp server ftp://ftp-cnrm.meteo.fr/pub-cencdp/.
Technical Note: How image processing facilitates the rising bubble technique for discharge measurement
Authors: Hilgersom K. P. , Luxemburg W. M. J.
Published: February 2012

Abstract. In this article, we rehabilitate the integrating rising bubble technique as an effective means of obtaining discharge measurements. Since Sargent (1981, 1982a), the technique has not been applied widely, mainly as a result of practical difficulties. We hypothesize that modern image processing techniques can greatly improve the rising bubble technique. We applied the technique in both a laboratory setup and a field study, after determining the bubble rising velocity for our nozzles in the specific case. During our measurements, we captured digital photographs of the bubble envelope at the water surface, each picture being a single measurement of the discharge. The photographs were corrected for lens distortion and reprojected so that accurate distances on water surface level could be obtained. This easy digital procedure resulted in accurate discharge measurements, even when turbulence was involved and the averages of multiple image analyses yielded good results. The study shows that the rising bubble technique can be a preferable discharge gauging technique in some situations. Recent developments in image processing facilitate the method substantially.
Temporal variations of evapotranspiration: reconstruction using instantaneous satellite measurements in the thermal infra red domain
Authors: Delogu E. , Boulet G. , Olioso A. , Coudert B. , Chirouze J. , Ceschia E. , Le Dantec V. , Marloie O. , Chehbouni G. , Lagouarde J.-P.
Published: February 2012

Abstract. Evapotranspiration estimates can be derived from remote sensing data and ancillary, mostly meterorological, information. For this purpose, two types of methods are classically used: the first ones estimate a potential evapotranspiration rate from vegetation indices, and adjust this rate according to water availability derived from either a surface temperature index or a first guess obtained from a rough estimate of the water budget, while the second family of methods rely on the link between the surface temperature and the latent heat flux through the surface energy budget. The latter provide an instantaneous estimate at the time of satellite overpass. In order to compute daily evapotranspiration, one needs an extrapolation algorithm. Since no image is acquired during cloudy conditions, these methods can only be applied during clear sky days. In order to derive seasonal evapotranspiration, one needs an interpolation method. Two combined interpolation/extrapolation methods based on the self preservation of evaporative fraction and the stress factor are compared to reconstruct seasonal evapotranspiration from instantaneous measurements acquired in clear sky conditions. Those measurements are taken from instantaneous latent heat flux from 11 datasets in Southern France and Morocco. Results show that both methods have comparable performances with a clear advantage for the evaporative fraction for datasets with several water stress events. Both interpolation algorithms tend to underestimate evapotranspiration due to the energy limiting conditions that prevail during cloudy days. Taking into account the diurnal variations of the evaporative fraction according to an empirical relationship derived from a previous study improved the performance of the extrapolation algorithm and therefore the retrieval of the seasonal evapotranspiration for all but one datasets.
Toxic anterior segment syndrome outbreak after vitrectomy and silicone oil injection
Authors: Moisseiev Elad , Barak Adiel
Published: February 2012

Purpose

To report a rare outbreak of toxic anterior segment syndrome (TASS) in 4 patients who underwent vitrectomy with silicone oil injection.

Methods

Review of the medical charts of all patients who underwent surgery in the operating theater of our department during a 10-day period in May 2011.

Results

We report on 4 patients who developed TASS after vitrectomy with silicone oil injection. The clinical presentation was typical of TASS, and different from the anterior chamber reaction that may occur after silicone oil injection. All cases were treated effectively with topical steroids, and the outbreak stopped after the silicone oil batch was exchanged.

Conclusions

We discuss the possible mechanisms for this unusual TASS outbreak, and suggest the silicone oil as its cause.
Estimating the optimal rotation age of Pinus nigra in the Spanish Iberian System applying discrete optimal control
Authors: Lopez Ignacio , Ortuño Sigfredo , Martín Ángel Julián , Fullana Carmen
Published: February 2012

This study proposes a model based on discrete optimal control for estimating the optimal rotation age of Pinus nigra in the Spanish Iberian System. The model was constructed using the NPV (alternately LEV) of forest management as objective function and a model of stand evolution represented by a finite difference equation. The optimal rotation ages obtained corresponding to the 2-4% discount rate interval were between 60 and 100 years for the NPV strategy (50 and 70 years for the LEV strategy). With regard to the optimal management schedule, the results have shown the need to intensify the harvesting at 40-60 years in order to maximize the production of posts in view of the high price they command on the market.
Effects of climate change on the distribution of Pinus sylvestris L. stands in Spain. A phytoclimatic approach to defining management alternatives
Authors: García-López Javier Mª , Allué Carmen
Published: February 2012

This paper presents some contributions on the possible effects of climatic change on the distribution of Pinus sylvestris L. stands in Spain. We studied the phytoclimatic status of Scots pine in current climate conditions (period 1951-1999) and in projected future climate conditions (2050). The phytoclimatic diagnosis followed a modified version of the Allué-Andrade phytoclimatic system. This calculation determines potential areas for Scots pine totalling 8,444,700 ha in current climate conditions and only 1,269,100 ha in 2050 conditions. The shrinkage of the area is especially pronounced in the southern half of Spain, where the model predicts that the species will practically disappear from the Baetic mountain ranges and from a major part of the Central System. In phytoclimatic terms, the maximum values of suitability correspond chiefly to the oroborealoid transitional to nemoral subtype VIII(VI)1 in current conditions, but in projected future conditions the maximum values correspond to areas currently assigned to oroarticoid transitional to oroborealoid subtypes X(VIII). The lowest viability scores are found in the southern half of the Iberian Peninsula and in Mediterranean transitional and nemoromediterranean subtypes. The results also suggest that stands of Pinus sylvestris will migrate upwards and will encounter a serious limitation in the scant availability of high mountain areas other than in the large northern massifs like the Pyrenees and the Cantabrian Cordillera, which accounts for their scant capacity to colonize new areas (2,134 km2 as opposed to extinction over 73,890 km2).
Influence of vegetation management and fertilization on Pinus pinaster growth and on understory biomass and composition
Authors: Pires Ana Luisa , Xavier Rui
Published: February 2012

To study the influence of understory vegetation management and fertilization, on pine growth and competing vegetation, a field trial was established in a 6-year old pine forest. Treatments included: control (C), vegetation cutting and removal, with and without fertilization (CRF and CR treatments), vegetation chipping, with and without fertilization (CDF and CD treatments). Treatments were replicate three times and arranged in completely randomized blocks. Pine volume was determined between 2002 and 2007 and understory was surveyed, quantified and analysed for macronutrients in 2002 and 2003. Vegetation chipping plus fertilization lead to the largest (p < 0.05) increase in pine volume (9.6 m3 ha–1 year–1) while removal of understory resulted in the lowest (p < 0.05), 5.1 m3 ha–1 year–1. In the other treatments, the average increase in volume was similar (6.4 m3 ha–1 year–1). When understory was removed nutrient output was rather large, especially the N output since Ulex minor was in 2002 the dominant species (65%). CD treatment was the most effective in reducing understory biomass (–76%), followed by CR (–65%), CDF (–57%) and CRF (–46%) treatments. In Control, vegetation biomass increased 48%. These results indicate that removal of understory without fertilizer addition is not a suitable practice. Chipping of vegetation besides avoiding nutrient output, decreased the amount of fuel, hence decreases fire risk, and if used with fertilizers leads to a significant increase in pine growth.
Seed mass variation, germination time and seedling performance in a population of Pinus nigra subsp. salzamannii
Authors: Tíscar Pedro , Lucas Manuel
Published: February 2012

Seed size and germination time are related to factors affecting natural regeneration of forest stands. Sources of seed mass variation and the effect of seed mass on seedling performance were investigated in a Pinus nigra subsp. salzmannii population. From eight maternal plants, seed mass variation was characterized for two crops at the within-individual level by mean, coefficient of variation, skewness and kurtosis values. Fifty seeds were planted in each of two substrate types, to monitor emergence, and survival and seedling performance during one growing season. Most variation in seed mass occurred within trees (c. 61%), rather than between them (c. 39%). Seed mass influenced emergence, depending on substrate type and mother plant. There were between-tree differences in the date of emergence, and a negative relationship was found between seed mass and date of emergence for the pine-seeds sown in peat substrate. The growth of seedlings was positively related to seed mass. It was argued that successful establishment of seedlings appears to be dependent on mother plant identity associated to seed traits, and that Pinus nigra stands could achieve regeneration by two different alternatives, depending on whether environmental variance overwhelms genetic variation.
Phenotypic plasticity is stronger than adaptative differentiation among Mediterranean stone pine provenances
Authors: Mutke Sven , Gordo Javier , Chambel M Regina , Prada M. Aránzazu , Álvarez Daniel , Iglesias Salustiano , Gil Luis
Published: February 2012

The Mediterranean stone pine, Pinus pinea L., seems to be well adapted to the different climate zones of its distribution range that spans four thousand kilometres along the Northern shore of the Mediterranean Sea. But recent molecular studies revealed it to be extremely genetically depauperate for a widespread tree. In this context, a provenances trial should elucidate whether any differentiation in adaptative traits can be identified between 34 accessions covering its natural range. The presence of strong spatial autocorrelations throughout four test sites required iterative nearest-neighbours adjustments in their statistical analysis. No significant differences in survival or ontogeny were found between accessions, while height growth was slightly though significantly more vigorous in northern or inland provenances. But these differences were masked by a common, stable reaction norm in dependence on site and microsite. On the other hand, its strong developmental plasticity allows the stone pine to delay the heteroblastic phase change in order to survive in unfavourable conditions, a clear advantage in the limiting and unpredictable environments of Mediterranean ecosystems.
Seasonal changes in the physiological activity of regeneration under a natural light gradient in a Pinus pinea regular stand
Authors: Pardos Marta , Puértolas Jaim , Madrigal Guillermo , Garriga Enrique , De Blas Santiago , Calama Rafael
Published: February 2012

Seasonal courses of chlorophyll a fluorescence, gas exchange parameters and water status, joined to environmental variables, were measured in four age classes of stone pine (Pinus pinea L.) natural regeneration under a natural light gradient in a stone pine regular stand throughout 2007 and 2008. One-year old seedlings were worse adapted to the extreme drought conditions recorded in summer (especially in 2008), showing lower predawn and midday Fv/Fm values, slightly lower photosynthetic rates at midday, lower PSII values, lower water potentials (pd andmin), and high mortality (90%). The oldest seedlings (class 4, 51-200 cm high), although they do not experience the lowest min in July 2008, were not able to maintain a positive carbon gain at midday, even showing the lowest photosynthetic rates. However, they rapidly recovered once the climatic conditions were softened in early autumn. During late autumn low Fv/Fm values were found especially in one-year old seedlings, indicating that maximal photochemical efficiency of PSII is sensitive to the autumn temperatures below cero recorded during both years. Thus, stone pine regeneration adapts its physiology to the seasonal course of temperature and water availability, showing a different photosynthetic performance according to age class. However, seedling physiology is not affected by the natural light gradient found in the studied stand, probably related to the low variability recorded in GSF values and the low density of the stand. We suggest that such low stand densities cannot assure one-year old seedlings’ survival, but are sufficient for older seedlings.
Variation of early reproductive allocation in multi-site genetic trials of Maritime pine and Aleppo pine
Authors: Santos Luis , Notivol Eduardo , Zas Rafael , Chambel Maria Regina , Majada Juan , Climent José
Published: February 2012

Life histories in Mediterranean pines are well known to be closely related to different fire and disturbance regimes. Variation in these factors is also reflected in reproductive strategies at the specific and intraspecific level. Specifically, the onset of reproduction is a crucial stage for any organism because it has profound implications on fitness. In this paper we focused on the intraspecific variation and plasticity in the threshold size for reproduction and reproductive allocation in two Mediterranean pines, assessed at the onset of reproduction, when trade-offs between reproduction and growth are expected to be greater. Replicated common garden provenance and progeny trials of Aleppo pine and Maritime pine were used to estimate genetic parameters for reproduction and vegetative growth, as well as variation in plasticity in reproductive strategies at the intraspecific level. In both species, high variation among populations was found for both threshold size for reproduction and for reproductive allocation. Reproductive allocation was also highly variable within populations and showed moderate to high values of heritability and high coefficients of additive genetic variation. These results indicate a high genetic control of reproductive traits, while high additive genetic variation is maintained, allowing to face selective pressures. Moreover, reproductive strategies although plastic, showed low genotype x environment interaction, and intraspecific variation was highly consistent across trial sites both at the population and the family levels. The former data confirm the strong genetic control of reproductive traits in these species. Finally, the fact that Aleppo pine starts its reproductive phase as female while Maritime pine can start reproducing either as male or female deserves further attention.
Drought-induced growth decline of Aleppo and maritime pine forests in south-eastern Spain.
Authors: Sánchez-Salguero Raúl , Navarro Rafael Maria , Camarero Jesús Juio , Fernández-Cancio Ángel
Published: February 2012

Climate warming may enhance the negative effects of droughts on radial growth in areas with severe water deficit, such as Mediterranean mountains under semi-arid conditions. The impacts of drought on growth decline of Mediterranean pines have not been evaluated considering species with different vulnerability and areas with contrasting climates. Dendrochronological methods were used to assess the responses of basal area increment to drought in Pinus pinaster and P. halepensis plantations. We compared growth trends of trees with different defoliation degree in two sites in south-eastern Spain (Sierra de los Filabres and Sierra de Baza) with contrasting climatic conditions. In the more xeric area (Filabres) both pine species showed a sharp growth reduction in response to extreme droughts such as those observed in 1994-1995, 1999 and 2005. The radial growth of both species was enhanced by May and June precipitation of the year of tree-ring formation. P. pinaster showed higher defoliation in the xeric area (Filabres) than in the more mesic area (Baza) but needle loss was not linked to an abrupt growth reduction. Contrastingly, divergent radial growth patterns between trees showing high and low defoliation degrees were found for P. halepensis in the more xeric area, where a negative relationship between recent basal area increment and defoliation was found. Pine plantations in Mediterranean mountains under semi-arid conditions are highly vulnerable to warming-induced droughts. Such marginal stands constitute valuable monitoring systems to assess the negative impacts of drought on tree growth, and to test if management strategies as thinning can mitigate the negative impacts of climate warming on similar drought-stressed forests.
Perceived Taste Loss From Early Adulthood to Mid to Late Adulthood and Mortality
Authors: Zhu Ruixin , Wang Ran , He Jingjing , Zhang Liwei , An Peng , Li Keji , Ren Fazheng , Xu Weili , Guo Jie
Published: February 2025

Importance

Evidence on the associations of taste function changes from early adulthood to mid to late adulthood with all-cause mortality is limited.

Objective

To investigate the associations between subjective perception of taste loss from early adulthood to mid to late adulthood and all-cause mortality.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This population-based cohort study used data from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2011-2014) and linked mortality information from the National Death Index (NDI) and included adults aged 40 years and older. Data analyses were conducted between May 6, 2024, and July 22, 2024.

Exposures

Subjective decline in taste function and ability to detect basic tastes (ie, salt, sourness, sweetness, or bitterness) since the age of 25 years.

Main Outcomes and Measures

All-cause mortality was ascertained via linkage to the NDI with follow-up until December 31, 2019.

Results

Among 7340 participants (52.8% female), 662 (weighted, 8.9%) reported subjective perception of taste loss from early adulthood to mid to late adulthood. During a median (IQR) follow-up of 6.67 (5.67-7.83) years, 1011 deaths occurred. Subjective perception of taste loss was associated with a 47% higher risk of mortality (multiadjusted hazard ratio [HR], 1.47; 95% CI, 1.06-2.03). Specifically, self-reported loss in ability to taste salt (multivariable adjusted HR [aHR], 1.65; 95% CI, 1.21-2.26) and sourness (aHR, 1.69; 95% CI, 1.19-2.40) was associated with increased mortality. Self-reported decline in ability to taste bitterness was associated with increased mortality only in female participants (aHR, 1.63; 95% CI, 1.05-2.53), whereas decline in ability to taste sourness was associated with increased mortality only in male participants (aHR, 1.69; 95% CI, 1.03-2.75). Moreover, among all and female participants without perceived smell function loss, those with perceived taste function loss still had increased mortality (all participants: aHR, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.12-2.40; female participants: aHR, 1.71; 95% CI, 1.14-2.56; male participants: aHR, 1.44; 95% CI, 0.80-2.59).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this population-based cohort study, subjective perception of taste loss from early adulthood to mid to late adulthood, particularly perception of salt and sourness, was associated with increased all-cause mortality. The mortality risk associated with perceived taste loss could not be mitigated by undeteriorated smell function. These findings suggest that subjective perception of taste loss may serve as a simple and valuable indicator for screening high-risk populations in clinic and public health practice.
PVDF‐Nanofibers/PET‐Nonwoven Sandwich Coated with Fine γ‐AlO(OH): A Bilayer Hybrid Composite Separator for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Liang Fanghua , Ezaki Hayato , Park Jeongjin , Watanabe Kei , Hyodo Kenji , Mayakrishnan Gopiraman , Zhang Wei , Kim Ick Soo
Published: February 2025

Nanofiber‐based separators fabricated via electrospinning for lithium‐ion batteries have garnered widespread attention due to their attractive porous characteristics, improved thermal stability, and high electrolyte wettability. A double‐layer PVDF/PET/γ‐AlO(OH) hybrid composite membrane is prepared by combining simple electrospinning techniques with drop casting onto thermally pressed PET/PVDF surfaces, resulting in a finely dispersed and uniform boehmite (γ‐AlO(OH)) coating. The 3D interconnected structure of the PVDF/PET/γ‐AlO(OH) hybrid composite membrane exhibits excellent mechanical properties and demonstrates outstanding electrolyte absorption, with supervisor electrolyte uptake of 582.5% and remarkable ionic conductivity of 1.2 × 10−2 S cm−1. Even after heating at 130 °C for 1 h, the membrane maintains good thermal stability. Li4Ti5O12/LiNiMnCoO2 batteries employing the double‐layer PVDF/PET/γ‐AlO(OH) hybrid composite membrane exhibit exceptional discharge capacity (105.7 mAh g−1 at 0.2 C) and outstanding capacity retention (100%). The battery performance results clearly demonstrate the suitability of the double‐layer PVDF/PET/γ‐AlO(OH) hybrid composite membrane as a safe separator for lithium‐ion batteries.