bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of Wild Foods During the Rainy Season by a Reintroduced Population of Scarlet Macaws (Ara Macao Cyanoptera) in Palenque, Mexico
Authors: Amaya-Villarreal Ángela María , Estrada Alejandro , Vargas-Ramírez Nicolás
Published: October 2016

The scarlet macaw ( Ara macao cyanoptera) is an endangered species in Mesoamerica due to illegal traffic, habitat loss, and hunting. In Mexico, its range has been reduced by 98%. Between April 2013 and June 2014, a population of 96 individuals of A. m. cyanoptera was reintroduced (six releasing events), in the tropical rainforests of Palenque, southeast Mexico, where this macaw had been extinct for the last 70 years. This study documents the use of wild foods and range use by the reintroduced macaws for the rainy season period June to November, 2014. The macaws used 140 trees of 31 species (19 families; 84% native species) as a source of food. Seeds and fruit accounted for 70% of their diet. The remaining 30% consisted of bark, stems, leaves, insect galls, flowers and shoots. A subset of five tree species was highly dominant in their diet (regarding number of trees used, months used and feeding records). Spatial data showed that food trees used by the macaws were dispersed over 36 ha and had a highly clumped distribution. The macaws used an additional 23ha for non-feeding activities. The dietary diversity and breadth (as indicated by Levin's Index) of the reintroduced macaws closely approaches that of wild macaws. The capacity of the reintroduced macaws to use wild foods, a very low mortality in the released population (9%), and the occurrence of nine successful nesting events, attests to a short-term success of the reintroduction. We discussed the observed patterns of use of wild foods and habitat by the reintroduced scarlet macaws in the context of the soft-release protocol used and of behavioral flexibility, accumulated social learning and a high cognitive capacity typical of psittacines, aspects essential for a successful adaptation to the wild.
Seed Dispersal of Vitex Glabrata and Prunus Ceylanica by Civets (Viverridae) in Pakke Tiger Reserve, North-East India: Spatial Patterns and Post-Dispersal Seed Fates
Authors: Chakravarthy Dayani , Ratnam Jayashree
Published: October 2016

Civets are considered potentially important seed dispersers in tropical forests of Asia, but relatively little is known about spatial patterns of dispersal and post-dispersal fates of civet-dispersed seeds. We explored these aspects of civet seed dispersal for two tree species Vitex glabrata (Lamiaceae), also known as smooth chaste tree and Prunus ceylanica (Rosaceae), in Pakke Tiger Reserve, a tropical forest reserve in north-east India. Pakke has five known species of viverrids: small Indian civet ( Viverricula indica), large Indian civet ( Viverra zibetha), common palm civet ( Paradoxurus hermaphroditus), masked palm civet ( Paguma larvata) and the binturong ( Arctictis binturong). For both tree species, civets as a group dispersed seeds (100% of scats that we found) within 50 meters from fruiting trees and deposited seeds onto multiple substrates including tree branches, forest floor, and fallen logs. However, the distribution of seeds among substrates differed for the two tree species: while most seeds of V. glabrata (> 90%) were deposited onto canopy branches and fallen logs, the majority of P. ceylanica seeds (> 70%) were deposited on the forest floor. For both tree species, seeds deposited on logs experienced higher seed predation than seeds on the forest floor, especially when local seed densities (number of seeds in 1m2 area around the scat and in the scat) were high. Further, seed viability of P. ceylanica was significantly lower on logs (~35%) than on the forest floor (~65%). For both tree species, civets neither dispersed seeds far from fruiting trees nor to sites where seeds experienced either low predation or high survival, suggesting that while civets were legitimate dispersers, they were not especially effective.
Deforestation Thresholds for Phyllostomid Bat Populations in Tropical Landscapes in the Huasteca Region, Mexico
Authors: Ávila-Gómez Eva S. , Moreno Claudia E. , García-Morales Rodrigo , Zuria Iriana , Sánchez-Rojas Gerardo , Briones-Salas Miguel
Published: October 2016

The loss and degradation of forests in tropical regions have modified tree cover, creating deforested landscapes. It has been suggested that there are thresholds in these landscapes beyond which the diversity, distribution, abundance, and fitness of different biological groups can be affected. In this study, the ecological habitat thresholds were detected for eight populations of phyllostomid bats along an environmental gradient of forest loss in the Huasteca region, Mexico. At a local scale, we analyzed canopy loss, and we also detected these thresholds at the landscape level, as a function of forest remnant area at three scales with radii of 1, 3 and 5 km. The data were analyzed using the Threshold Indicator Taxa ANalysis (TITAN) method for detecting indicator species along gradients. The bats exhibited three different types of response to habitat loss: 1) Leptonycteris yerbabuenae, Chiroderma salvini, Sturnira hondurensis, and Artibeus lituratus were more abundant where canopy cover was present at the local site, even though the landscape had been deforested; 2) Sturnira parvidens and Artibeus jamaicensis required tree cover at all spatial scales; and 3) Glossophaga soricina and Desmodus rotundus are species that might be locally abundant in habitats with little canopy, but both species need landscapes that have not been deforested. In conclusion, these populations of phyllostomid bats were sensitive to deforestation in different ways, their response to the habitat loss gradient varying among species and with spatial scale.
Bird Assemblages in a Malagasy Forest-Agricultural Frontier: Effects of Habitat Structure and Forest Cover
Authors: Rocha Ricardo , Virtanen Tarmo , Cabeza Mar
Published: October 2016

Increasing global human population and per-capita food consumption are expected to exacerbate the already massive agricultural footprint in tropical ecosystems. Madagascar is home to exceptional levels of biodiversity and is in the midst of severe land-use change, mostly driven by slash-and-burn, smallholder agriculture. Understanding the consequences of these agricultural practices for Malagasy native species is therefore of the foremost importance for the conservation of the nation's biodiversity. We surveyed bird assemblages inside and surrounding Ranomafana National Park, southeastern Madagascar, obtaining nearly 1,000 records of more than 60 species. At each study point, habitat structure was characterized by its vegetation complexity, and forest cover was quantified within circles of radii of 100, 500 and 750 m. We found that species richness was higher in forest than in agricultural areas, and responses to land-use change were found to be guild-specific, with frugivores being especially depleted outside forest areas, whereas granivores had higher species richness in the agricultural matrix. The number of recorded species with forest affinities was highly associated with landscape-scale forest cover, while open area and generalist species responded mainly to site-scale habitat structure. Our results demonstrate a turnover from forest-associated species to open area and habitat generalist species in Madagascar's smallholder agricultural areas. Our study underscores the conservation value of landscape-scale forest cover and of site-scale vegetation complexity. A double-stranded conservation approach, in which both landscape-scale forest cover and vegetation complexity are preserved would benefit conservation of the island's forest avifauna.
Robots as Vectors for Marine Invasions: Best Practices for Minimizing Transmission of Invasive Species Via Observation-Class ROVs
Authors: Thaler Andrew David , Freitag Amy , Bergman Erika , Fretz Dominik , Saleu William
Published: October 2016

Remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) present a potential risk for the transmission of invasive species. This is particularly the case for small, low-cost microROVs that can be easily transported among ecosystems and, if not properly cleaned and treated, may introduce novel species into new regions. Here we present a set of 5 best-practice guidelines to reduce the risk of marine invasive species introduction for microROV operators. These guidelines include: educating ROV users about the causes and potential harm of species invasion; visually inspecting ROVs prior to and at the conclusion of each dive; rinsing ROVs in sterile freshwater following each dive; washing ROVs in a mild bleach (or other sanitizing agent) solution before moving between discrete geographic regions or ecosystems; and minimizing transport between ecosystems. We also provide a checklist that microROV users can incorporate into their pre- and post-dive maintenance routine.
Can Footprints of Small and Medium Sized Felids be Distinguished in the Field? Evidences from Brazil's Atlantic Forest
Authors: Douglas de Carvalho William , Rosalino Luís Miguel , Dalponte Júlio Cesar , Santos Bárbara , Adania Cristina Harumi , Esbérard Carlos Eduardo Lustosa
Published: October 2016

Carnivores, particularly felids, face threats in many regions of the world. They are a crucial component of biodiversity with a functional role in the top of the food chain. Therefore, they have been the target of surveys and monitoring and ecological studies, most of which are based on footprint identifications, an efficient and low-cost method compared to other approaches. In these cases, species identifications may suffer from a high degree of bias due to the overlap in the size and shape of footprints among species. We experimented with small to medium captive wild felids of five species: ocelot, Leopardus pardalis, margay L. wiedii, oncilla, L. guttulus, domestic cat, Felis catus, and jaguarondi, Puma yagouaroundi). We tested for differences in footprint measurements, including main pad and toe pad sizes. We used humid sand as substrate and took measurements from several front and hind footprints of seven animals per species (except jaguarondi, for which only four animals were available). Our results showed that ocelot is the only species for which it is possible to obtain 100%-accurate footprint identifications, mainly because of its footprint area ( i.e., length × width). The remaining species presented a wide variation in measurements, making them almost impossible to distinguish based solely on footprint dimensions. Our results suggest that researchers should restrict identification to the genus level or adopt a multidisciplinary sampling strategy by combining footprint detection with camera-trapping, visual observation, scat collection, molecular ecology techniques, and/or face-to-face interviews with local residents.
Feasibility of using Scent-Baited Hair Traps to Monitor Carnivore Populations in Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Hedges Laurie , Morrant Damian S. , Campos-Arceiz Ahimsa , Clements Gopalasamy Reuben
Published: October 2016

Non-invasive genetic sampling is increasingly being used for monitoring mammalian carnivore populations. However, environmental conditions in the tropics challenge researchers' ability to collect samples. We present the results of a preliminary study on the feasibility of using scent-baited hair traps for population monitoring of mammalian carnivores in Peninsular Malaysia. Stations were baited using either fatty acid scent or male cologne applied to hair traps. Video camera traps were also used to monitor carnivore reactions to the scent stations. We recorded 19 visits by seven carnivore species over 764 camera trap nights. Cheek-rubbing and scent-marking behaviour was recorded only for single individuals of two species: the Malayan tiger ( Panthera tigris jacksoni) and clouded leopard ( Neofelis nebulosa). This study suggests that scent-baited hair traps hold some promise for ecological issues requiring DNA analysis in Peninsular Malaysia. Additional research is needed to develop its full potential for conservation monitoring of large carnivores.
Taxonomic, Species and Functional Group Diversity of Ants in a Tropical Anthropogenic Landscape
Authors: García-Martínez Miguel Á. , Martínez-Tlapa Dora L. , Pérez-Toledo Gibrán R. , Quiroz-Robledo Luis N. , Castaño-Meneses Gabriela , Laborde Javier , Valenzuela-González Jorge E.
Published: October 2016

In tropical dry landscapes, biodiversity conservation is dependent upon both the protection of natural areas and the sustainable management of the agricultural matrix. We analyzed the taxonomic, species and functional group diversity of ants in three neighboring habitats with different degrees of anthropic disturbance in Veracruz, Mexico. A total of 34,957 ant workers belonging to 89 species, 34 genera, 19 tribes and 7 subfamilies were recorded. Primary forest had the highest species richness and most even distribution of species among the taxonomic levels, followed by secondary forest and active pasture. Because high species turnover among habitats increased species richness at the landscape level, the three neighboring habitats that we sampled are important for conservation biodiversity and together have a high conservation value for ants and probably for other invertebrates as well. Species of specialized functional groups were more frequent in primary forest, while those belonging to generalist and opportunistic groups were more frequent in active pasture. Human-disturbed areas in the vicinity of protected areas have an important role as reservoirs of biodiversity and should be included in landscape management practices designed to improve arthropod conservation in the tropics.
Changes in the Diversity of Evergreen and Deciduous Species During Natural Recovery Following Clear-Cutting in a Subtropical Evergreen-Deciduous Broadleaved Mixed Forest of Central China
Authors: Huang Yongtao , Ai Xunru , Yao Lan , Zang Runguo , Ding Yi , Huang Jihong , Feng Guang , Liu Juncheng
Published: October 2016

Clear-cutting has been a widespread commercial logging practice, causing substantial changes of biodiversity in many forests throughout the world. Forest recovery is a complex ecological process, and examining the recovery process after clear-cutting is important for forest conservation and management. In the present study, we established fourteen 20 m × 20 m plots in three recovery stages (20-year-old second growth, 35-year-old second growth and old growth) and explored the changes in evergreen and deciduous species diversity after clear-cutting in a subtropical evergreen-deciduous broadleaved mixed forest in central China. The results showed that total species richness was highest at the intermediate recovery stage. The species richness and stem abundance of evergreen species increased, while total and deciduous species stem abundance decreased with forest recovery. The basal area of both total and evergreen species increased, while that of the deciduous species showed a unimodal pattern. The abiotic conditions varied with the recovery process. Changes in species compositions were generally correlated with soil pH, total phosphorus, and CO. Our results suggest that deciduous species richness and stem abundance can recover after 20–35 years, but evergreen species need more time to recover following clear-cutting.
Factors Structuring the Fish Community in the Area of the Coaracy Nunes Hydroelectric Reservoir in Amapá, Northern Brazil
Authors: Sá-Oliveira Júlio C. , Isaac Victoria J. , Araújo Andrea Soares , Ferrari Stephen F.
Published: October 2016

The objective of this study was to document the structure of the fish assemblages found in the aquatic environments affected by the Coaracy Nunes hydroelectric reservoir in Ferreira-Gomes, Amapá (Brazil) and the principal factors that determine this structure. In order to do this, standardized samples were collected of the fauna and the environmental parameters in the four principal sectors of the reservoir (upstream, the reservoir, the lake, and downstream). Fish species richness, abundance, and biomass were estimated for each sector. The abundance data were analyzed using null models of co-occurrence. A multivariate BIO-ENV analysis was used to examine the relationship between biological and environmental factors. The relationship between species richness and biomass of both prey and predator species was analyzed to determine whether predation was affecting community structure. Size spectrum analysis was conducted to verify whether fishing has influenced community structure. The results indicated contrasting seasonal patterns of deterministic processes in the downstream and lake sectors, suggesting that competition or abiotic factors may play a role in community structure. Stochastic patterns were recorded in the other sectors. Environmental factors, such as water transparency and depth, and the reservoir level were also closely related to the relative abundance of species in the communities. The relationship between the species richness and the biomass of predators and prey indicated that predation was an important determinant of community structure, which was interrupted by selective fishing. Despite the stochastic nature of most processes, deterministic factors were fundamental to the structure of the assemblages found in the downstream and lake sectors.
New Population and Range Extension of the Critically Endangered Ecuadorian Brown-Headed Spider Monkey (Ateles Fusciceps Fusciceps) in Western Ecuador
Authors: Cervera Laura , Griffith Daniel M.
Published: October 2016

The western lowlands of Ecuador form part of the Tumbes-Chocó-Magdalena hotspot, a region with exceptionally high endemism but also elevated rates of deforestation. The Critically Endangered Ecuadorian brown-headed spider monkey ( Ateles fusciceps fusciceps) is endemic to the region and threatened by continuing habitat loss and hunting. Studies of the species' conservation status maintain that its current distribution is restricted to several large tracts of primary forest remaining in northwestern Ecuador, and that the total population numbers around 250 individuals. We report a previously unknown population of brown-headed spider monkeys found 100 km southwest of the species' known distribution in a highly fragmented landscape of Manabí province. This finding not only represents an important advance in our knowledge of the species' geographic distribution, but also suggests that brown-headed spider monkeys may be able to persist as a metapopulation in human-modified landscapes.
Cavity Occupancy by Lowland Paca (Cuniculus Paca) in the Lacandon Rainforest, Chiapas, Mexico
Authors: Figueroa-de-León; Avril , Naranjo Eduardo J. , Perales Hugo , Santos-Moreno Antonio , Lorenzo Consuelo
Published: October 2016

Habitat occupancy is a good indicator of wildlife behavior and interactions with their environment. We used camera traps to study the use of cavities by lowland paca ( Cuniculus paca) in three sites in the Lacandon Rainforest of Chiapas, Mexico. To understand the biotic, environmental, physical, anthropic, and behavioral elements that affect spotted lowland paca, the cameras recorded lowland paca activity in front of 29 cavities. Monitoring occurred continuously in cavities near permanent natural water bodies, underneath roots of trees, or inside hollow logs. These cavities were more frequently found in Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve (MABR), where hunting pressure was low. The daily occupancy and permanence of lowland paca in these cavities were associated with the presence of its offspring. There were no offspring recorded in cavities alongside rivers within grazing areas. This suggests the potential existence of a sink-source type of metapopulation, where community reserves and MABR would serve as source habitat, while riparian corridors would be sink habitat for this species. Lowland pacas used these locations, which were scattered through the study area, so long as hunting was moderate and riparian corridors with safe cavities in large trees were well preserved.
Road-Edge Effects on Herpetofauna in a Lowland Amazonian Rainforest
Authors: Maynard Ross J. , Aall Nathalie C. , Saenz Daniel , Hamilton Paul S. , Kwiatkowski Matthew A.
Published: October 2016

The impact of roads on the flora and fauna of Neotropical rainforest is perhaps the single biggest driver of habitat modification and population declines in these ecosystems. We investigated the road-edge effect of a low-use dirt road on amphibian and reptile abundance, diversity, and composition within adjacent lowland Amazonian rainforest at San José de Payamino, Ecuador. The road has been closed to vehicle traffic since its construction in 2010. Thus, effects from vehicle mortality, vehicle-related pollution, and road noise were not confounding factors. Herpetofauna were surveyed using both visual encounter surveys and drift fences with pitfall and funnel traps at varying distances from the road. Structural and microclimate features of the forest were measured at each sampling distance. Several habitat variables were found to differ at intermediate and interior sampling distances from the road compared to forest edge conditions, suggesting the road-edge effect began to attenuate by the intermediate sampling distance. However, the edge effect on amphibians and reptiles appeared to extend 100 m from the road edge, as abundance and diversity were significantly greater at the interior forest compared to the forest edge. Additionally, assemblage composition as well as the hierarchical position of species shifted between sampling distances. Habitat predictor models indicate that amphibian abundance was best predicted by vine abundance, while both vine and mature tree abundance were the best predictors for species richness and diversity. Overall, and contrary to what might otherwise be expected, our results demonstrate that small, little-used road disturbances can nonetheless have profound impacts on wildlife.
Mitigating Human-Tiger Conflict: An Assessment of Compensation Payments and Tiger Removals in Chitwan National Park, Nepal
Authors: Dhungana Rajendra , Savini Tommaso , Karki Jhamak Bahadur , Bumrungsri Sara
Published: October 2016

Human-tiger conflict is one of the most critical issues in tiger conservation, requiring a focus on effective mitigation measures. We assessed the mitigation measures used between 2007 and 2014 in Chitwan National Park (CNP) and its buffer zone, which include: compensation payments made to human victims or their families, compensation for livestock loss through depredation, and the removal of tigers involved in conflicts. The data collected from the offices of CNP and the Buffer Zone Management Committee were triangulated during questionnaire surveys (n=83) and key informant interviews (n=13). A total compensation of US$ 93,618 ($11,702.3 per year) was paid for tiger attacks during the eight-year period. Of this, the majority (65%) was in payment for human killings, followed by payment for livestock depredations (29.3%) and for human injuries (5.7%). The payments on average covered 80.7% of medical expenses of injured persons, and 61.7% of the monetary value of killed livestock. Goats had the highest proportion of payments (43.5%) for livestock. A linear model suggested there was an increasing trend in total annual payments from $2,000 in 2007 to $21,536 in 2014, a jump of 976%. A total of 15 tigers were removed from the wild for conflict reasons: 11 by authorities, and four killed by local people in retaliation. Thirteen tigers were removed from the buffer zone alone. The majority of the removed tigers were adults (n=9) and healthy (n=9). Most (n=12) of the removed tigers were killed, or died after removal, indicating greater impacts of tiger-removal in CNP. We suggest that in order to encourage community engagement, compensation payments be paid quickly, an insurance scheme in the buffer zone be promoted, live-removed tigers be better managed, including radio-tracking of wild released individuals, and awareness programs be targeted at affected communities.
Posterior Shoulder Instability
Authors: Antosh Ivan J. , Tokish John M. , Owens Brett D.
Published: October 2016

Context:

Posterior shoulder instability has become more frequently recognized and treated as a unique subset of shoulder instability, especially in the military. Posterior shoulder pathology may be more difficult to accurately diagnose than its anterior counterpart, and commonly, patients present with complaints of pain rather than instability. “Posterior instability” may encompass both dislocation and subluxation, and the most common presentation is recurrent posterior subluxation. Arthroscopic and open treatment techniques have improved as understanding of posterior shoulder instability has evolved.

Evidence Acquisition:

Electronic databases including PubMed and MEDLINE were queried for articles relating to posterior shoulder instability.

Study Design:

Clinical review.

Level of Evidence:

Level 4.

Results:

In low-demand patients, nonoperative treatment of posterior shoulder instability should be considered a first line of treatment and is typically successful. Conservative treatment, however, is commonly unsuccessful in active patients, such as military members. Those patients with persistent shoulder pain, instability, or functional limitations after a trial of conservative treatment may be considered surgical candidates. Arthroscopic posterior shoulder stabilization has demonstrated excellent clinical outcomes, high patient satisfaction, and low complication rates. Advanced techniques may be required in select cases to address bone loss, glenoid dysplasia, or revision.

Conclusion:

Posterior instability represents about 10% of shoulder instability and has become increasingly recognized and treated in military members. Nonoperative treatment is commonly unsuccessful in active patients, and surgical stabilization can be considered in patients who do not respond. Isolated posterior labral repairs constitute up to 24% of operatively treated labral repairs in a military population. Arthroscopic posterior stabilization is typically considered as first-line surgical treatment, while open techniques may be required in complex or revision settings.
A Revised Protocol for More Clearly Classifying a Nonunion
Authors: Wu Chi-Chuan , Chen Wen-Jer
Published: October 2016

Classifying a nonunion solely on the extent of callus formation on a radiograph is insufficient. We have conducted a study with a revised protocol to classify a nonunion more clearly, which uses both radiographic observation and fixation stability. 47 consecutive femoral shaft nonunions were studied using this protocol and 42 nonunions were followed up for at least one year after discovery (range, 1–3 years). 40 nonunions healed after treatment with a union rate of 95.2% (40/42) and a union period of 4.7 ± 0.9 months. The 2 cases of failure were due to implant failure and both healed after reoperation. We recommend this revised protocol as a pretreatment assessment for all nonunions because of its integrity and effectiveness.
Predictive Value of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Avascular Necrosis following Talar Fractures
Authors: Kubo Toshikazu , Kamata Keishi , Noguchi Masahiko , Inoue Shigehiro , Horii Motoyuki , Fujioka Mikihiro , Hirasawa Yasusuke
Published: October 2016

Ischemic bone necrosis following talar fractures is a problematic complication and its early diagnosis is important. Patients with Hawkins Type II and III talar fractures received internal fixation using titanium alloy screws, and chronological bone changes were observed with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). With the Type II patient, Hawkins' sign was radiographically confirmed 2 months after the surgery. Furthermore, there were no changes of MR images for 2 years and a good clinical outcome was obtained. However, in the Type III patient, Hawkins' sign was negative and MRI revealed a low signal-intensity band on the talus 2 months after the surgery and then necrosis was radiographically confirmed; pain appeared 10 months later. These 2 cases suggest that MRI is a useful means for detecting bone necrosis with talar fractures in the early post-operative period.
Bacterial Load in Tissues and its Predictive Value for Infection in Open Fractures
Authors: Sen Ramesh K , Murthy NRS , Gill Shivinder S , Nagi Onkar N
Published: October 2016

The role of quantitative bacteriology is considered controversial for the prediction of infection in open fractures. A study was done in 20 patients with open fractures. Post debridement pieces of skin, muscle and periosteal tissue were obtained for quantitative bacterial counts. Among a total of 50 samples from all of the tissues, 29 showed positive bacterial counts (16 of 20 skin, 11 of 20 muscle and 2 of 10 periosteum samples). By quantitative estimation, the bacterial load was >105 per gram in 10 skin and 3 muscle tissue samples. Infection developed in 9 of the 20 cases within one month, and eight of these patients had contamination of >105 per gram in 8 of the skin but only 3 muscle samples. It was concluded that with tissue specific bacterial load estimation, prediction of subsequent infection can be made if skin tissue contains >105 per gram, or if muscle tissue carries any level of bacterial presence.
Cementless Total Hip Arthroplasty Using the Omnifit System: An 8.2 Year Follow-up Study of 166 Hips
Authors: Hsieh Pang-Hsin , Shih Chun-Hsiung , Lee Po-Cheng , Yang Wen-E , Lee Zhon-Liau
Published: October 2016

One hundred and sixty-six cementless primary total hip arthroplasties were performed in 133 patients with porous coated Omnifit prosthesis. The average age was 49.7 years. The mean follow-up period was 8.2 years with a minimum of 5 years. Good to excellent clinical results were achieved in 93% of patients. The overall revision rate was 5.4%.

Radiographically, bone ingrowth occurred in all unrevised cups, and in 95% of unrevised stems. Osteolytic lesions appeared at an average of 3.8 years postoperatively. Femoral and pelvic osteolysis were seen in 21% and 4% of the surviving hips respectively. All femoral osteolytic lesions were found in the proximal Gruen zones 1 and 7. The mean annual polyethylene wear rate was 0.15 mm. Approximately one-third of the hips were observed to have excessive wear.

Our experience with cementless Omnifit total hip prosthesis is encouraging. Of significant concern is the high incidence of excessive polyethylene wear and osteolysis.
Adult-Onset Intradural Spinal Teratoma in the Lumbar Spine: A Case Report
Authors: Arai Yasuhisa , Takahashi Masaki , Takeda Koutarou , Shitoto Katsuo
Published: October 2016

Intradural spinal teratoma is a very rare tumour that can be associated with dysraphic defects. We report a case of adult-onset intradural spinal teratoma in the lumbar spine. The patient was a 54-year-old female who had chief complaints of a gait disturbance. X-rays showed an enlargement of the interpedicular distance at L3/L4 and spina bifida distal to L4. MRI showed a spindle-shaped tumour between L2 and L5. We performed laminotomy using an ultrasonic surgical knife. Pathological diagnosis of the resected tumour was matured teratoma. The diagnosis of matured teratoma was made because the tumour had no epithelium and a layered structure including prostate tissue, matured fat, cartilage and sweat gland.
Massive Prepatellar Bursitis in Post-Polio Residual Paralysis: A Case Report
Authors: Bhat Anil K , Bhaskaranand Kumar
Published: October 2016

We report a case of post-polio residual paralysis, an eighteen-year old girl who was ambulatory on all four limbs and presented to us with a massive pre-patellar bursitis on her left knee.
High Cervical Lipoma: A Case Report and Review with Classification
Authors: Yamane Tomojiro , Miyagawa Ichiro , Dezawa Akira , Mikami Hiroto , Arai Yukihiro
Published: October 2016

We experienced a 51 year-old female with high cervical lipoma who complained of neck pain and hypoaesthesia on her right lower extremity. She underwent surgery for removal of the tumour, but she was found unconscious after the surgery and then died after 19 days.
Interlaminar Discectomy and Selective Foraminotomy in Lumbar Disc Herniation
Authors: Garg Manish , Kumar Sudhir
Published: October 2016

Our objective was to assess the clinical outcome of interlaminar discectomy in patients suffering with degenerated lumbar disc lesions. We made a prospective study of 50 consecutive patients who underwent limited lumbar discectomy. The clinicoradiological parameters, type of surgery performed and the post-operative follow up were assessed.

We found that interlaminar discectomy without laminotomy was adequate in 33 cases (66%). Most patients requiring laminotomy (17 cases −34%) for discectomy had associated lumbar canal stenosis, herniation at proximal levels (L3–4) and/or sacralization of L5 vertebra. Selective foraminotomy in addition to discectomy was performed in 28 cases (56%). The post-operative results were good in 43 (86%) fair in 6 (12%) and poor subjective in 1 case (2%). No patient was classified as poor objective.

In conclusion, interlaminar discectomy without laminotomy is a safe, effective and reliable surgical technique for treating properly selected patients with herniated lumbar disc at L4–5 and L5–S1 levels.
Comparative Study of Iliac Bone Graft and Carbon Cage with Local Bone Graft in Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion
Authors: Arai Yasuhisa , Takahashi Masaki , Kurosawa Hisashi , Shitoto Katsuo
Published: October 2016

We performed a comparative study of iliac bone graft (the iliac bone group) and carbon cage with local bone graft (the cage group) in PLIF to evaluate the clinical results of both methods. We examined both groups about the operating time, the estimated blood loss, the operative results using the score rating system of Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA score), and the presence of bone union on radiography. The operating time and the estimated blood loss of the cage group were statistically less than those of the iliac bone group. There were no significant differences between both groups about the operative results. The radiographic evaluation on bone union showed that half of the iliac bone group had collapsed union, but all cases of the cage group revealed union without collapse.
Retrograde Femoral Interlocking Nail in Complex Fractures
Authors: Anup Khare , Mehra M. M.
Published: October 2016

Retrograde interlocking nail was used as the method of fixation in 35 different cases of combination of complex femoral fractures. We performed this procedure in fractures of femoral shaft associated with fracture neck femur, pathological fractures of proximal third of femur with trochanteric pathology, ipsilateral fracture of femur and tibia in polytrauma cases with multiple other injuries, in highly obese patients with fracture shaft femur.

This technique was also used in cases of pregnancy with fracture shaft femur and in unstable pelvic fracture or dislocation hip associated with fracture shaft femur. Operative technique involved with retrograde insertion of un-reamed, non-cannulated custom made nail through entrance portal in intercondylar notch was applied for fixation of the shaft femur fracture.

The other associated fracture around hip was stabilized separately using suitable implant according to type of fracture. In cases of ipsilateral fracture of femur and tibia, femur was stabilized by retrograde interlocking nail and tibia was stabilized by antigrade interlocking nail through same incision at the same sitting. The case was followed up for three years; the average union time was 12 to 18 weeks. Out of 35 cases, 31 cases regained full knee movement. Out of the remaining 4 cases, 2 cases could regain up to 90° of movement, these were old fractures and noncooperative patients. In one case, patellofemoral arthritis was developed because of an operative error where a nail was not put inside the articular surface. Mal-union was observed in an early case of the series and implant failure was nil.

Retrograde interlocking nail was used as the method of fixation in complex fracture problems. Multiple fractures of long bones can be stabilized in one stage, preventing multiple operations at different stages in polytraumatized patients. This resulted in early recovery, lesser hospital stay, and early rehabilitation of patient with good results and is economical also.
The Treatment of Chronic Osteomyelitis with a Biodegradable Antibiotic-Impregnated Implant
Authors: Gitelis Steven , Brebach Gregory T.
Published: October 2016

The use of local antibiotics from a biodegradable implant for chronic osteomyelitis is an attractive alternative. The implant delivers high tissue levels, obliterates dead space, aids bone repair and does not need to be removed. The purpose of this paper is to review our early clinical experience with custom-made calcium sulfate (Osteoset bone void filler) antibiotic-impregnated implants.
Local Osteopenia Associated with Management of Intra-Articular Distal Radial Fractures by Insertion of External Fixation Pins in the Distal Fragment: Prospective Study
Authors: Mehta JA , Slavotinek JP , Krishnan J
Published: October 2016

Purpose.

To assess the restoration of the bone mass of the distal radius following the use of implants in the distal radial fragment. Highly comminuted Frykman type 7 and 8 fractures were studied to determine whether the use of fixation pins in the comminuted distal radial fragment leads to osteopenia in the distal radial fragment after healing of the fracture.

Methods.

As part of a clinical trial, 30 patients with comminuted intra-articular fractures of the distal radius were treated with closed reduction, external non-bridging fixation, and early postoperative mobilisation. To detect local osteopenia, bone density measurements were taken at the distal metaphysis and mid-diaphysis following healing of the fractured radius and the contralateral unaffected radius in 12 patients.

Results.

The mean age of the 12 patients for whom bone density measurements were recorded was 52.5 years (range, 39–87 years). There were 9 females and 3 males included in the study. Seven patients had a Frykman type 8 fracture and 5 patients had a Frykman type 7 fracture. Significant osteopenia was absent despite the use of four 2.5-mm fixation pins in the distal fragments of the healed distal radial fracture. The median value of the maximal step was 2.8mm (range, 0–9.1mm). The median value of the intra-articular interfragmentary gap was 1.8 mm (range, 0–13.4mm).

Conclusion.

The findings of this study do not suggest long-term osteopenia following the use of four 2.5-mm pins in the distal fragments. The non-bridging fixator, by allowing early physical activity, possibly led to satisfactory functional and structural results.
Use of Reconstruction Nails to Manage Ipsilateral Displaced Femoral Neck-Shaft Fractures: Assessment of a New Approach
Authors: Lin SH , Lo CW , Cheng SC , Kuo MY , Chin LS
Published: October 2016

Purpose.

Owing to unpredictable femoral neck reduction, reconstruction nails are not suitable for fixation of group 3 ipsilateral femoral neck-shaft fractures. We developed a new one-step fixation technique to overcome this problem. This study aims to assess this new technique at the Orthopaedic Department, Chi-Mei Foundation Medical Center, Tainan.

Methods.

Of 31 consecutive patients with femoral fractures treated by reconstruction nails, five patients had group 3 ipsilateral femoral neck-shaft fractures, 4 of whom were treated by a new surgical technique. Two 5.0-mm drills were firstly inserted to tether the trochanter fragment, and distal locking screws were secondly applied to immobilise the shaft fracture. The neck-shaft angle was then restored in a closed fashion and proximal cephalomedullary screws were attached. Patients were followed up by post-operative radiography.

Results.

All 5 cases of group 3 ipsilateral femoral -neck-shaft fracture obtained radiographic union without significant surgical sequelae. Three of the patients had implants removed. No patients presented with osteonecrosis at the 3-year follow-up.

Conclusion.

The new approach to manage ipsilateral femoral neck-shaft fractures by using reconstruction nails obtains relatively good clinical results.
Using a Custom Mega Prosthesis to Treat Hydatidosis of Bone: A Report of 3 Cases
Authors: Natarajan MV , Kumar AK , Sivaseelam A , Iyakutty P , Raja M , Rajagopal TS
Published: October 2016

Three cases of hydatidosis of bone with pathological fracture were treated by wide resection, custom mega prosthesis replacement, and chemotherapy. Two patients were females and one was male, with a mean age of 47 years (range, 38–55 years). Two of them had a pathological fracture of the proximal femur, and one had a pathological fracture of the distal femur. All patients were treated postoperatively with albendazole 400mg, twice daily, for 12 weeks. During the mean follow-up period of 4.5 years, no recurrence of Echinococcal infection was noticed. The use of the custom mega prosthesis technique has not been reported elsewhere, and hydatid disease of the bone can now be considered an extended indication for custom mega prosthesis in addition to its application in surgery for tumours and massive trauma.
Use of Wagner Cementless Self-Locking Stems for Massive Bone Loss in Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Lyu SR
Published: October 2016

Purpose.

To assess the use of Wagner cementless self-locking stems for massive bone loss in hip arthroplasty.

Methods.

22 patients with severe proximal femoral bone loss either due to prosthetic loosening or comminuted fracture were treated by Wagner cementless self-locking revision stems between November 1993 and June 1995.

Results.

Radiographic evidence of early bony incorporation was found by 1 month in most cases. At a mean follow-up of 7.1 years, the mean Harris hip score increased from 30 to 84 points. It was less than 80 points in 4 patients, 2 of whom experienced severe thigh pain due to marked progressive subsidence of the stems (by 13 mm and 20 mm), which were revised 2 and 3 years later respectively.

Conclusion.

Implantation of a Wagner cementless self-locking revision stem provided satisfactory results for 82% of patients. Hence, in some difficult conditions, this device is a good choice of management.
The Relationship between Nerve Conduction Study and Clinical Grading of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Authors: Ogura T , Akiyo N , Kubo T , Kira Y , Aramaki S , Nakanishi F
Published: October 2016

Purpose.

To conduct a median nerve conduction study on patients with carpal tunnel syndrome and investigate the relationship between nerve conduction study parameters and clinical grading.

Methods.

A nerve conduction study was performed on 60 upper limbs of 37 patients with idiopathic carpal tunnel syndrome, and the relationship between the clinical grade and various study parameters was assessed.

Results.

The amplitude of the sensory nerve action potential and the motor nerve action potential differed according to clinical grading, but this pattern was not seen for sensory nerve conduction velocity, motor nerve conduction velocity, or motor nerve terminal latency and clinical grading.

Conclusion.

The amplitude of the sensory nerve action potential and motor nerve action potential reflect the functional state of axons, and are useful parameters for assessing clinical grading based on nerve conduction velocity.
Operative Treatment of Bilateral Hip Dislocation in Children with Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita
Authors: Asif S , Umer M , Beg R , Umar M
Published: October 2016

Purpose.

Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) is a rare syndrome with multiple joint contractures. It is commonly believed that bilaterally dislocated hips associated with joint contractures should not be reduced, because movement is satisfactory, while open reduction leads to poor results. This report presents our experience with surgical management of bilateral dislocation of hips in children with AMC.

Methods.

During the period 1990 to 2000, we performed open reduction on 8 hips of 4 children with AMC. The mean age at surgery was 23 months (range, 5–48 months). Open reduction and capsular plication without any bony procedure were performed in 4 hips (2 patients). De-rotation and varus osteotomy of the femur was performed in 4 hips, and Salter osteotomy of the innominate bone in 2 hips. The average acetabular index was 44°, and the mean centre-edge angle was −41° preoperatively.

Results.

The average follow-up period was 4 years (range, 2–9 years). The average acetabular index and centre-edge angle were 19° and 18°, respectively at the time of last follow-up. All children could walk without support. One child required re-opening for redislocation of hip joint. The clinical results were good in 6 hips and fair in 2 hips, according to Severin's and McKay's classifications.

Conclusion.

Our experience shows that open reduction for bilateral dislocation of hips in children with AMC is a suitable option with generally good results. Surgery performed at earlier age gives the best functional outcome.
Diagnostic Utility of Waveform Analysis of Compound Muscle Action Potentials for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Authors: Ogura T , Mori M , Mikami Y , Hase H , Hayashida T , Kubo T , Kira Y , Aramaki S
Published: October 2016

Purpose.

To determine the diagnostic utility of waveform analysis of compound muscle action potentials (CMAP) for carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).

Methods.

A total of 131 hands in 71 patients diagnosed with CTS (grouped according to severity) and 80 hands in 44 normal subjects were evaluated using nerve conduction test through the carpal tunnel combined with waveform analysis of CMAP.

Results.

Compared to normal subjects, the sensory nerve conduction velocity and mean frequency of the CMAP waveform were significantly reduced in patients with CTS. Compared with distal motor latency and sensory nerve conduction velocity, the mean frequency of the CMAP decreased significantly with increasing clinical severity.

Conclusion.

This study suggests that waveform analysis of CMAP is of diagnostic value in CTS, and is also of value in objective evaluation of postoperative recovery of carpal median nerve dysfunction.
A New Clinical Test for Radial Tunnel Syndrome—The Rule-of-Nine Test: A Cadaveric Study
Authors: Loh YC , Lam WL , Stanley JK , Soames RW
Published: October 2016

Purpose.

Radial tunnel syndrome refers to pain on the lateral aspect of the forearm as a result of compression of the posterior interosseous nerve within a tunnel with specific anatomical boundaries. Diagnosis of the condition is difficult because of its close association with lateral epicondylitis, which warrants different methods of treatment. Based on a cadaveric study, a new clinical test, the Rule-of-Nine test, is proposed to improve the diagnostic accuracy in radial tunnel syndrome. The test involves constructing 9 equal squares on the anterior aspect of the forearm and noting those squares where tenderness can be elicited.

Methods.

19 upper limbs were dissected to delineate the path of the posterior interosseous nerve through the radial tunnel, and the relationship of the path of the nerve with the 9 squares.

Results.

A consistent mapping of the posterior interosseous nerve to the lateral column of 3 squares was observed.

Conclusion.

The Rule-of-Nine test is proposed as a reliable method of diagnosing radial tunnel syndrome.
Composite Vascularised Osteocutaneous Fibula and Sural Nerve Graft for Severe Open Tibial Fracture—Functional Outcome at One Year: A Case Report
Authors: Halim AS , Yusof I
Published: October 2016

Management of severe open tibial fracture with neurovascular injury is difficult and controversial. Primary amputation is an acceptable option as salvaging the injured, insensate, and ischaemic limb may result in chronic osteomyelitis and non-functional limb. We report a case of open tibial fracture associated with segmental bone and soft tissue loss, posterior tibial nerve and artery injuries, which was further complicated by chronic osteomyelitis treated with composite vascularised osteocutaneous fibula and sural nerve graft. Functional outcome of the injured limb at one-year follow-up was satisfactory: the patient was capable of achieving full weightbearing and was able to appreciate crude touch, pain, proprioception, and temperature at the plantar aspect of the foot. There was no pressure sore or ulceration.