bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Degradation of the Strength of Elastomeric Chains subjected to Different Levels of Salivary pH associated with Exposure to Mouthrinses with and without Fluoride
Authors: Pithon Matheus Melo , Andrade Camilla , Santos Amir Felipe
Published: September 2015

Aim

To evaluate the degradation of strength of elastomeric chains submitted to different levels of salivary pH and exposed to mouthrinses with and without fluoride.

Materials and methods

Seven groups of chain elastics (n = 18) mounted on test devices that remained immersed in artificial saliva were tested. Group 1 (pH 5 and without fluoride), 2 (pH 5 and with fluoride), 3 (pH 6 and without fluoride), 4 (pH 6 and with fluoride), 5 (pH 7.5 and without fluoride) and 6 (pH 7.5 and with fluoride) and 7 (control group). The test groups were exposed to mouthrinses twice a day for 30 seconds, with an interval of 12 hours between one exposure and the other. A control group was immersed in distilled water. The strength of samples was gauged with a dynamometer. Six measurements of strength were made in the following time intervals: initial (0), 1, 7, 14, 21 and 28 days. The force values were submitted to the analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's test to determine whether there were statistical differences between each group. The level of significance adopted was 5% (α = 0.05).

Results

When the groups were evaluated individually, comparing the factor time in the initial period, the force was statistically higher than that in all the other experimental time intervals (p < 0.05). From the 7th day up to day 28, no statistical differences were found among the groups (p > 0.05). The factors pH and the presence of mouthwash with or without fluoride did not interfere in the results among the groups (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The presence or absence of fluoride in the mouthrinses used in the study made no difference to the force degradation of the chain elastics, as the test groups obtained similar results among them in the studied time intervals.

How to cite this article

Pithon MM, Andrade C, Santos AF, Campos M, Saini R. Degradation of the Strength of Elastomeric Chains subjected to Different Levels of Salivary pH associated with Exposure to Mouthrinses with and without Fluoride. Int J Experiment Dent Sci 2015;4(1):23-28.
Fibrin Sealant: A Review of Its Applications in Periodontal Surgery
Authors: Pulikkotil Shaju , Nath Sonia
Published: September 2015

Aim

Fibrin sealant is a biological tissue adhesive mimicking the final stage of coagulation. It has a wide variety of application in the field of periodontics. The aim of this article was to review current applications and identify potential use of fibrin sealant in periodontal surgical procedures on an evidence-based conclusion.

Materials and methods

An online search was performed in PubMed, Google Scholar and Cochrane Library databases using keywords fibrin sealant, fibrin glue, fibrin, regeneration, wound healing, tissue adhesive, gingival recession/therapy, surgical therapy, periodontal, and periodontitis in a mutually inclusive manner. The studies were evaluated by two independent reviewers for inclusion in this literature review.

Results

Out of 196 research papers identified, 59 articles were selected by the authors for this literature review, giving preference to clinical trials related to periodontal application.

Conclusion

Use of fibrin sealant is a simple, safe, costeffective, and rapid way to fix flaps and grafts avoiding any postoperative bleeding. Fibrin sealant has the property for regeneration when used in conjunction with a barrier membrane for formation of new connective tissue attachment. It is effective in microsurgical procedures and closing flaps around implant site. They initiate early wound healing through collagen synthesis and fibroblast proliferation. Fibrin sealant may be an alternate biomaterial for periodontal surgery which may stimulate periodontal wound healing and regeneration.

How to cite this article

Jacob S, Nath S. Fibrin Sealant: A Review of Its Applications in Periodontal Surgery. Int J Experiment Dent Sci 2015;4(1):40-46.
Dynamics of Matrix Metalloproteinases in the Oral Environment
Authors: Tandelilin Regina TC
Published: September 2015

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are an important family of zincdependent endopeptidases that mediate the extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation. The major component of the extracellular matrix, collagen, is catabolized. These enzymes have been implicated in oral pathologic processes, such as periodontal tissue destruction, root caries, tumor invasion, and temporomandibular joint disorders. The aim of this paper was to review of some general aspects of matrix metalloproteinases and discuss the role of these enzymes in normal physiology and pathology with emphasis on the oral environment. This process is important in a number of aspects of dentistry since matrix is constantly turning over. Although the members of the MMP family matrix possess different substrate specificities, they all possess similar structural and functional features and demonstrate similar mechanisms of proteolysis. The catalytic of the MMPs is regulated at multiple levels including transcription, secretion, activation and inhibition. The growth and repair of connective tissues is a delicately balanced process of ECM removal and replacement with significant control by primary MMPs and their natural inhibitors, the tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs). Dentists have a need to understand matrix turnover in the periodontal ligament and adjacent structures, embryology and development.

How to cite this article

Tandelilin RTC, Saini R. Dynamics of Matrix Metalloproteinases in the Oral Environment. Int J Experiment Dent Sci 2015;4(1):53-57.
Modelling the contribution of biogenic volatile organic compounds to new particle formation in the Jülich plant atmosphere chamber
Authors: Roldin P. , Liao L. , Mogensen D. , Dal Maso M. , Rusanen A. , Kerminen V.-M. , Mentel T. F. , Wildt J. , Kleist E. , Kiendler-Scharr A. , Tillmann R. , Ehn M. , Kulmala M. , Boy M.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. We used the Aerosol Dynamics gas- and particle-phase chemistry model for laboratory CHAMber studies (ADCHAM) to simulate the contribution of BVOC plant emissions to the observed new particle formation during photooxidation experiments performed in the Jülich Plant-Atmosphere Chamber and to evaluate how well smog chamber experiments can mimic the atmospheric conditions during new particle formation events. ADCHAM couples the detailed gas-phase chemistry from Master Chemical Mechanism with a novel aerosol dynamics and particle phase chemistry module. Our model simulations reveal that the observed particle growth may have either been controlled by the formation rate of semi- and low-volatility organic compounds in the gas phase or by acid catalysed heterogeneous reactions between semi-volatility organic compounds in the particle surface layer (e.g. peroxyhemiacetal dimer formation). The contribution of extremely low-volatility organic gas-phase compounds to the particle formation and growth was suppressed because of their rapid and irreversible wall losses, which decreased their contribution to the nano-CN formation and growth compared to the atmospheric situation. The best agreement between the modelled and measured total particle number concentration (R2 > 0.95) was achieved if the nano-CN was formed by kinetic nucleation involving both sulphuric acid and organic compounds formed from OH oxidation of BVOCs.
LOAC: a small aerosol optical counter/sizer for ground-based and balloon measurements of the size distribution and nature of atmospheric particles – Part 2: First results from balloon and unmanned aerial vehicle flights
Authors: Renard J.-B. , Dulac F. , Berthet G. , Lurton T. , Vignelles D. , Jégou F. , Tonnelier T. , Thaury C. , Jeannot M. , Couté B. , Akiki R. , Verdier N. , Mallet M. , Gensdarmes F. , Charpentier P. , Mesmin S. , Duverger V. , Dupont J. C. , Elias T. , Crenn V. , Sciare J. , Giacomoni J. , Gobbi M. , Hamonou E. , Olafsson H. , Dagsson-Waldhauserova P. , Camy-Peyret C. , Mazel C. , Décamps T. , Piringer M. , Surcin J. , Daugeron D.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. In the companion paper (Renard et al., 2015), we have described and evaluated a new versatile optical particle counter/sizer named LOAC (Light Optical Aerosol Counter) based on scattering measurements at angles of 12 and 60° that allows some topology identification of particles (droplets, carbonaceous, salts, and mineral dust) in addition to size segregated counting in a large diameter range from 0.2 up to possibly more than 100 μm depending on sampling conditions. Its capabilities overpass those of preceding optical particle counters (OPCs) allowing the characterization of all kind of aerosols from submicronic-sized absorbing carbonaceous particles in polluted air to very coarse particles (> 10–20 μm in diameter) in desert dust plumes or fog and clouds. LOAC's light and compact design allows measurements under all kinds of balloons, on-board unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) and at ground level. We illustrate here the first LOAC airborne results obtained from an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and a variety of scientific balloons. The UAV was deployed in a peri-urban environment near Bordeaux in France. Balloon operations include (i) tethered balloons deployed in urban environments in Vienna (Austria) and Paris (France), (ii) pressurized balloons drifting in the lower troposphere over the western Mediterranean (during the Chemistry-Aerosol Mediterranean Experiment – ChArMEx campaigns), (iii) meteorological sounding balloons launched in the western Mediterranean region (ChArMEx) and from Aire-sur-l'Adour in south-western France (VOLTAIRE-LOAC campaign). More focus is put on measurements performed in the Mediterranean during (ChArMEx) and especially during African dust transport events to illustrate the original capability of balloon-borne LOAC to monitor in situ coarse mineral dust particles. In particular, LOAC has detected unexpected large particles in desert sand plumes.
LOAC: a small aerosol optical counter/sizer for ground-based and balloon measurements of the size distribution and nature of atmospheric particles – Part 1: Principle of measurements and instrument evaluation
Authors: Renard J.-B. , Dulac F. , Berthet G. , Lurton T. , Vignelles D. , Jégou F. , Tonnelier T. , Thaury C. , Jeannot M. , Couté B. , Akiki R. , Verdier N. , Mallet M. , Gensdarmes F. , Charpentier P. , Duverger V. , Dupont J.-C. , Mesmin S. , Elias T. , Crenn V. , Sciare J. , Giacomoni J. , Gobbi M. , Hamonou E. , Olafsson H. , Dagsson-Waldhauserova P. , Camy-Peyret C. , Mazel C. , Décamps T. , Piringer M. , Surcin J. , Daugeron D.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. The study of aerosols in the troposphere and in the stratosphere is of major importance both for climate and air quality studies. Among the numerous instruments available, aerosol particles counters provide the size distribution in diameter range from few hundreds of nm to few tens of μm. Most of them are very sensitive to the nature of aerosols, and this can result in significant biases in the retrieved size distribution. We describe here a new versatile optical particle/sizer counter (OPC) named LOAC (Light Optical Aerosol Counter), which is light and compact enough to perform measurements not only at the surface but under all kinds of balloons in the troposphere and in the stratosphere. LOAC is an original OPC performing observations at two scattering angles. The first one is around 12°, and is almost insensitive to the nature of the particles; the second one is around 60° and is strongly sensitive to the refractive index of the particles. By combining measurement at the two angles, it is possible to retrieve accurately the size distribution and to estimate the nature of the dominant particles (droplets, carbonaceous, salts and mineral particles) in several size classes. This topology is based on calibration charts obtained in the laboratory. Several campaigns of cross-comparison of LOAC with other particle counting instruments and remote sensing photometers have been conducted to validate both the size distribution derived by LOAC and the retrieved particle number density. The topology of the aerosols has been validated in well-defined conditions including urban pollution, desert dust episodes, fog, and cloud. Comparison with reference aerosol mass monitoring instruments also shows that the LOAC measurements can be successfully converted to mass concentrations. All these tests indicate that no bias is present in the LOAC measurements and in the corresponding data processing.
Technical Note: Towards resolving in situ, centimeter-scale location and timing of biomineralization in calcareous meiobenthos – the calcein–osmotic pump method
Authors: Bernhard J. M. , Phalen W. G. , McIntyre-Wressnig A. , Mezzo F. , Wit J. C. , Jeglinski M. , Filipsson H. L.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. Insights into oceanographic environmental conditions such as paleoproductivity, deep-water temperatures, salinity, ice volumes, and nutrient cycling have all been obtained from geochemical analyses of biomineralized carbonate of marine organisms. However, we cannot fully understand geochemical proxy incorporation and the fidelity of such in species until we better understand fundamental aspects of their ecology such as where and when these (micro)organisms calcify. Here, we present an innovative method using osmotic pumps and the fluorescent marker calcein to help identify where and when calcareous meiofauna calcify in situ. Method development initially involved juvenile quahogs (Mercenaria mercenaria); subsequent method refinement involved a neritic benthic foraminiferal community. Future applications of this method will allow determining the in situ growth rate in calcareous organisms and provide insights about microhabitats where paleoceanographically relevant benthic foraminifera actually calcify.
Estimate of changes in agricultural terrestrial nitrogen pathways and ammonia emissions from 1850 to present in the Community Earth System Model
Authors: Riddick S. N. , Ward D. S. , Hess P. , Mahowald N. , Massad R. S. , Holland E. A.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. Nitrogen applied to the surface of the land for agricultural purposes represents a significant source of reactive nitrogen (Nr) that can be emitted as a gaseous Nr species, be denitrified to atmospheric nitrogen (N2), run-off during rain events or form plant useable nitrogen in the soil. To investigate the magnitude, temporal variability and spatial heterogeneity of nitrogen pathways on a global scale from sources of animal manure and synthetic fertilizer, we developed a mechanistic parameterization of these pathways within a global terrestrial model. The parameterization uses a climate dependent approach whereby the relationships between meteorological variables and biogeochemical processes are used to calculate the volatilization of ammonia (NH3), nitrification and run-off of Nr following manure or fertilizer application. For the year 2000, we estimate global NH3 emission and Nr dissolved during rain events from manure at 21 and 11 Tg N yr−1, respectively; for synthetic fertilizer we estimate the NH3 emission and Nr run-off during rain events at 12 and 5 Tg N yr−1, respectively. The parameterization was implemented in the Community Land Model from 1850 to 2000 using a transient simulation which predicted that, even though absolute values of all nitrogen pathways are increasing with increased manure and synthetic fertilizer application, partitioning of nitrogen to NH3 emissions from manure is increasing on a percentage basis, from 14 % of nitrogen applied (3 Tg NH3 yr−1) in 1850 to 18 % of nitrogen applied in 2000 (22 Tg NH3 yr−1). While the model confirms earlier estimates of nitrogen fluxes made in a range of studies, its key purpose is to provide a theoretical framework that can be employed within a biogeochemical model, that can explicitly respond to climate and that can evolve and improve with further observation.
IL-GLOBO (1.0) – development and verification of the moist convection module
Authors: Rossi D. , Maurizi A. , Fantini M.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. The development and verification of the convective module of IL-GLOBO, a Lagrangian transport model coupled online with the Eulerian general circulation model GLOBO, is described. The online-coupling promotes the full consistency between the Eulerian and the Lagrangian components of the model. The Lagrangian convective scheme is derived based on the Kain–Fritsch convective parameterisation used in GLOBO. A transition probability matrix is computed using the fluxes provided by the Eulerian KF parameterisation. Then, the convection redistribution of Lagrangian particles is implemented via a Monte Carlo scheme. The formal derivation is described in details and, consistently with the Eulerian module, includes the environmental flux in the transition probability matrix to avoid splitting of the convection and subsidence processes. Consistency of the Lagrangian implementation with its Eulerian counterpart is verified by computing environment fluxes from the transition probability matrix and comparing them to those computed by the Eulerian module. Assessment of the impact of the module is made for different latitudinal belts, showing that the major impact is found in the tropics, as expected. Concerning vertical distribution, the major impact is observed in the boundary layer at every latitude, while in the tropical area, the influence extends to very high levels.
Wavelet analysis of the singular spectral reconstructed time series to study the imprints of Solar–ENSO–Geomagnetic activity on Indian climate
Authors: Sri Lakshmi S. , Tiwari R. K.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. In order to study the imprints of solar–ENSO–geomagnetic activity on the Indian Subcontinent, we have applied the Singular Spectral Analysis (SSA) and wavelet analysis to the tree ring temperature variability record from the western Himalayas. The data used in the present study are the Solar Sunspot Number (SSN), Geomagnetic Indices (aa Index), Southern Oscillation Index (SOI) and tree ring temperature record from western Himalayas (WH), for the period of 1876–2000. The SSA and wavelet spectra reveal the presence of 5 years short term ENSO variations to 11 year solar cycle indicating the influence of both the solar–geomagnetic and ENSO imprints in the tree ring data. The presence of 33-year cycle periodicity suggests the Sun-temperature variability probably involving the induced changes in the basic state of the atmosphere. Our wavelet analysis for the SSA reconstructed time series agrees with our previous results and also enhance the amplitude of the signals by removing the noise and showing a strong influence of solar–geomagnetic and ENSO patterns throughout the record. The solar flares are considered to be responsible for cause in the circulation patterns in the atmosphere. The net effect of solar–geomagnetic processes on temperature record thus appears to be the result of counteracting influences on shorter (about 5–6 years) and longer (about 11–12 years) time scales. The present analysis thus suggests that the influence of solar processes on Indian temperature variability operates in part indirectly through ENSO, but on more than one time scale. The analyses hence provides credible evidence for teleconnections of tropical pacific climatic variability with Indian climate ranging from interannual-decadal time scales and also demonstrate the possible role of exogenic triggering in reorganizing the global earth–ocean–atmospheric systems.
Determinants of Foreign Portfolio Inflows: Analysis and Implications for China
Authors: Ahmad Fayyaz , Draz Muhammad Umar , Yang Su-chang
Published: September 2015

In emerging markets, a number of factors like GDP growth, market efficiency and higher earnings expectations play a vital role in attracting stable and smooth foreign investment. This work is intended to explore the determinants of FPI in China and compare the results with determinants of FPI in India explored by Garg and Dua (2014). We have applied multiple-regression model for ten years’ data ranging from 2001 to 2010. The results indicate that external debts are the most significant determinant of FPI for China. We concur with Garg and Dua (2014) that GDP growth, FDI and exchange rate are among the significant determinants of FPI. Our findings suggest that China needs to sustain its economic growth in order to attract more FPI.
Interactional Feedback in Naturalistic Interaction between L2 English Learners
Authors: Ranaweera Mahishi
Published: September 2015

Theoretical and empirical data support that the feedback given in small group activities promote second language acquisition. There are many studies that have examined the impact of interaction on second language acquisition in controlled language situations. This study examines the small group activity ‘conversation partner’ in order to find out how much feedback takes place in an out of classroom activity such as conversation partner where the language is not controlled. The conversations were recorded and examined for instances of interactional feedback. Later a tailor made test was given to find out whether the participants remembered the language items that they received feedback on. The results show that feedback in natural speech among learners occurs relatively at a low level but the learners remember whatever language that was used in feedback instances.
Horror in mainstream en cult cinema: is het genre extremer geworden?
Authors: Pashley Veerle
Published: September 2015

Horror in mainstream and cult cinema: did the genre become more extreme?

Ever since the creation of silent movies, directors aim to shock the audience with explicit scenes of violence. Yet, little attention has been given to the evolution of horror movies. In order to create ‘monsters’, ‘dark locations’ and ‘explicit scenes of violence’ directors have to experiment with storylines and new techniques, if they want to shock the audience. The aim of this paper is to examine whether or not horror has become more violent (more extreme) throughout film history. Hence, we will discuss the historic evolution of horror movies in mainstream cinema (films that reached a large audience) and cult cinema (films which have a select, mostly fan based, audience).
John Braithwaite
Authors: Walgrave Lode
Published: September 2015

John Braithwaite

In this interview, Lode Walgrave talks to John Braithwaite, one of the most cited white collar crime scholars and best known for his ‘reintegrative shaming’, which added the crucial moral-emotional and ethical dimensions to the body of work on crime and crime control. John Braithwaite tells about his major publications and developments in his intellectual endeavour: the role of shaming and its importance in restorative justice, dominion, responsive regulation, and also his recent project on peacebuilding. Braithwaite’s career and political involvement are discussed throughout the interview, as well as his critical view with regards to the fragmentation of social sciences (including criminology).
A tool for dynamic measurement of social capital embedded in Online Social Networks.
Authors: Akbaritabar Aliakbar
Published: September 2015

This paper suggests a methodological improvement to study social capital in online social networks. We have designed a measurement tool based on Lin's theory of social resources. It is named Social Village and can be accessed in (http://socialvillage.me). By this tool, we are getting access to profile and friendship data of users of online social networks (Facebook and Google Plus). To access this data, we ask for users’ permission by social login and we have designed a gamified and interesting social survey that helps users get an in-depth knowledge of their online life. This tool combines three structural generators for social capital data (name, position and resource generators) and it has been developed in three languages (English, French and Persian) enabling us to conduct comparative studies. Based on our preliminary results presented in this paper, 412 users in sample of our study know who they are connected with in online social networks, they know their friends’ socio-economic positions and they are providing or receiving various resources through their online friendships. Gamified social survey used in this tool helped us gain a four times more response rate than existing online surveys. In this paper, we present, reviewed literature, theoretical framework, methodology of constructing the tool and results obtained.
La enfermedad de Alzheimer desde el análisis de redes sociales.
Authors: Llopis Cañameras Jaime
Published: September 2015

El estudio de las redes personales de 23 cuidadores/as de personas afectadas por la enfermedad de Alzheimer pone de manifiesto los profundos cambios que se producen en el entorno social de estas personas. En general las redes se hacen más pequeñas y se concentran en las funciones de apoyo, siguiendo varias evoluciones posibles que hemos caracterizado según una tipología: redes reducidas, institucionalizadas, medicalizadas y normalizadas. Esta tipología puede depender del estado de evolución de la enfermedad.
Quaternion-Based Kalman Filter for AHRS Using an Adaptive-Step Gradient Descent Algorithm
Authors: Wang Li , Zhang Zheng , Sun Ping
Published: September 2015

This paper presents a quaternion-based Kalman filter for real-time estimation of the orientation of a quadrotor. Quaternions are used to represent rotation relationship between navigation frame and body frame. Processing of a 3-axis accelerometer using Adaptive-Step Gradient Descent (ASGD) produces a computed quaternion input to the Kalman filter. The step-size in GD is set in direct proportion to the physical orientation rate. Kalman filter combines 3-axis gyroscope and computed quaternion to determine pitch and roll angles. This combination overcomes linearization error of the measurement equations and reduces the calculation cost. 3-axis magnetometer is separated from ASGD to independently calculate yaw angle for Attitude Heading Reference System (AHRS). This AHRS algorithm is able to remove the magnetic distortion impact. Experiments are carried out in the small-size flight controller and the real world flying test shows the proposed AHRS algorithm is adequate for the real-time estimation of the orientation of a quadrotor.
Cortical network architecture for context processing in primate brain
Authors: Chao Zenas C , Nagasaka Yasuo , Fujii Naotaka
Published: September 2015

Context is information linked to a situation that can guide behavior. In the brain, context is encoded by sensory processing and can later be retrieved from memory. How context is communicated within the cortical network in sensory and mnemonic forms is unknown due to the lack of methods for high-resolution, brain-wide neuronal recording and analysis. Here, we report the comprehensive architecture of a cortical network for context processing. Using hemisphere-wide, high-density electrocorticography, we measured large-scale neuronal activity from monkeys observing videos of agents interacting in situations with different contexts. We extracted five context-related network structures including a bottom-up network during encoding and, seconds later, cue-dependent retrieval of the same network with the opposite top-down connectivity. These findings show that context is represented in the cortical network as distributed communication structures with dynamic information flows. This study provides a general methodology for recording and analyzing cortical network neuronal communication during cognition.
AMPA receptor mediated synaptic excitation drives state-dependent bursting in Purkinje neurons of zebrafish larvae
Authors: Sengupta Mohini , Thirumalai Vatsala
Published: September 2015

Purkinje neurons are central to cerebellar function and show membrane bistability when recorded in vitro or in vivo under anesthesia. The existence of bistability in vivo in awake animals is disputed. Here, by recording intracellularly from Purkinje neurons in unanesthetized larval zebrafish (Danio rerio), we unequivocally demonstrate bistability in these neurons. Tonic firing was seen in depolarized regimes and bursting at hyperpolarized membrane potentials. In addition, Purkinje neurons could switch from one state to another spontaneously or with current injection. While GABAAR or NMDAR were not required for bursting, activation of AMPARs by climbing fibers (CFs) was sufficient to trigger bursts. Further, by recording Purkinje neuron membrane potential intracellularly, and motor neuron spikes extracellularly, we show that initiation of motor neuron spiking is correlated with increased incidence of CF EPSPs and membrane depolarization. Developmentally, bistability was observed soon after Purkinje neuron specification and persists at least until late larval stages.
Solitary Hepatic Eosinophilic Granuloma Accompanied by Eosinophilia Without Parasitosis: Report of a Case
Authors: Yamamoto Takatsugu , Miyazaki Toru , Kurashima Yukiko , Ohata Kazunori , Okawa Masato , Tanaka Shogo , Uenishi Takahiro , Miyaji Katsuhiko , Fukumoto Nobusuke
Published: September 2015

A 43-year-old Japanese woman visited for a hepatic tumor incidentally found. We suspected eosinophilic granuloma of the liver (EGL) due to visceral larva migrans (VLM). However, neither past history nor medical interview indicated a risk of parasitosis. Blood testing revealed eosinophilia, serum examination showed normal results for immunoglobulin E, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay yielded negative for Toxocara and Anisakis. Gastric and colonic endoscopy revealed normal features. Several imagings showed central necrosis of the tumor. After informed consent, laparoscopic resection was performed. Histopathological examination showed EGL without parasites. No recurrence had occurred postoperatively. Most reports documented that EGL are caused by VLM. However, parasites are not always demonstrable on serum, histopathological, or immunochemical examinations. When acting as allergens to induce type I responses, microscopic agents other than parasites in the intestinal tract could induce eosinophilic inflammation in the liver. Accumulation of more cases should help clarify other pathogeneses for EGL.
Comparison of Anterior Versus Posterior Approach in the Treatment of Thoracolumbar Fractures: A Systematic Review
Authors: Zhu Qicong , Shi Fengchao , Cai Weihua , Bai Jianling , Fan Jin , Yang Huilin
Published: September 2015

Despite extensive research on thoracolumbar fractures, controversy still exists about which approach is the most appropriate. Lack of evidence-based practice may result in patients being treated inappropriately. The objective of study was to perform a systematic review of the effectiveness of the anterior and posterior approaches in the treatment of thoracolumbar fractures. We conducted searches of PubMed and the Cochrane Library, searching for relevant trials up to August 2013 that compared anterior and posterior for the treatment of thoracolumbar fractures. The key words “anterior,” “posterior,” “thoracolumbar fracture,” “CCT,” and “RCT” were used. We assessed all included literature by using the Cochrane handbook (version 5.1). The results were expressed as the mean difference for continuous outcomes and risk difference for dichotomous outcomes, with a 95% confidence interval, using RevMan version 5.2. There were 3 randomized controlled trials and 11 clinical controlled trials included. The meta-analysis showed no significant difference between groups regarding Cobb angle, the Frankel scale, ASIA/JOA motor score, complications, and number of patients returning to work. Compared with the anterior approach, the posterior approach demonstrated superior canal decompression. In the burst fracture subgroup, operative times were significantly shorter and perioperative blood loss was less in the posterior approach group. The posterior approach is more effective for canal decompression, operative times, and perioperative blood loss. However, because of the lack of randomized controlled trials, and because of large sample size studies, heterogeneity was significant between reports. The optimal treatment for thoracolumbar fractures requires further study.
Neoadjuvant Long-Course Chemoradiotherapy for Rectal Cancer: Does Time to Surgery Matter?
Authors: Panagiotopoulou Ioanna G. , Parashar Deepak , Qasem Eyas , Mezher-Sikafi Rasha , Parmar Jitesh , Wells Alan D. , Bajwa Farrukh M. , Menon Madhav , Jephcott Catherine R.
Published: September 2015

The objective of this paper was to evaluate whether delaying surgery following long-course chemoradiotherapy for rectal cancer correlates with pathologic complete response. Pre-operative chemoradiotherapy (CRT) is standard practice in the UK for the management of locally advanced rectal cancer. Optimal timing of surgery following CRT is still not clearly defined. All patients with a diagnosis of rectal cancer who had undergone long-course CRT prior to surgery between January 2008 and December 2011 were included. Statistical analysis was performed using Stata 11. Fifty-nine patients received long-course CRT prior to surgery in the selected period. Twenty-seven percent (16/59) of patients showed a complete histopathologic response and 59.3% (35/59) of patients had tumor down-staging from radiologically-assessed node positive to histologically-proven node negative disease. There was no statistically significant delay to surgery after completion of CRT in the 16 patients with complete response (CR) compared with the rest of the group [IR: incomplete response; CR group median: 74.5 days (IQR: 70–87.5) and IR group median: 72 days (IQR: 57–83), P = 0.470]. Although no statistically significant predictors of either complete response or tumor nodal status down-staging were identified in logistic regression analyses, a trend toward complete response was seen with longer delay to surgery following completion of long-course CRT.
Clinical Role of Modified Seton Procedure and Coring Out for Treatment of Complex Anal Fistulas Associated With Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Authors: Tokunaga Yukihiko , Sasaki Hirokazu
Published: September 2015

A variety of techniques have been described to treat complex anal fistulas. When complex anal fistulas are associated with hidradenitis suppurativa, the treatment has to be appropriately tailored for the severity and distribution of the disease so as to remove the external fistula tract to prevent recurrence while ensuring fecal continence. Between 2007 and 2011, a total of 10 males (ranging in age from 32 to 54 years) complained of recurrent purulent discharge in the buttocks and thigh regions. The discharge had started about 12 to 18 months prior, and had increased progressively resulting in complex anal fistulas and hidradenitis suppurativa in the buttocks. They underwent surgical operation according to a modified seton procedure for complex anal fistulas and coring out for hidradenitis suppurativa. They were discharged from the hospital in 4 to 5 days, while the seton dropped spontaneously about 6 to 8 months after surgery. They have been well without any morbidities or recurrence. The present paper demonstrates that cases of complex anal fistulas associated with hidradenitis suppurativa can be successfully treated with a modified seton procedure and coring out of hidradenitis suppurativa.
Delayed Appendectomy Is Safe in Patients With Acute Nonperforated Appendicitis
Authors: Kim Sang Hyun , Park Sun Jin , Park Youn Young , Choi Sung Il
Published: September 2015

The present study examined whether acute, nonperforated appendicitis is a surgical emergency requiring immediate intervention or a disease that can be treated with a semielective operation. Immediate appendectomy has been the gold standard in the treatment of acute appendicitis because of the risk of pathologic progression. However, this time-honored practice has been recently challenged by studies suggesting that appendectomies can be elective in some cases and still result in positive outcomes. This was a retrospective study using the charts of patients who underwent an appendectomy for acute, nonperforated appendicitis between January 2007 and February 2012. Patients were divided into 2 groups for comparison: an immediate group (those who were moved to an operating room within 12 hours after hospital arrival) and a delayed group (those within 12 to 24 hours after hospital arrival). The end points were conversion rate, operative time, perforation rate, complication rate, readmission rate, length of hospital stay, and medical costs. Of 1805 patients, 1342 (74.3%) underwent immediate operation within 12 hours after hospital arrival, whereas 463 (25.7%) underwent delayed operation within 12 to 24 hours. There were no significant differences in open conversion, operative time, perforation, postoperative complications, and readmission between the 2 groups. Length of hospital stay was significantly greater (3.7 ± 1.7 days) and medical costs were also greater [$2346.30 ± $735.30 (US dollars)] in the delayed group than in the immediate group [3.1 ± 1.9 days; P = 0.000 and $2257.80 ± $723.80 (US dollars); P = 0.026]. Delayed appendectomy is safe for patients with acute nonperforated appendicitis.
On magnetic estimation of Earth's core angular momentum variation
Authors: Asari S. , Wardinski I.
Published: September 2015

We study systematically the estimation of Earth's core angular momentum (CAM) variation between 1962.0 and 2008.0 by using core surface flow models derived from the recent geomagnetic field model C3FM2. Various flow models are derived by changing four parameters that control the least squares flow inversion. The parameters include the spherical harmonic (SH) truncation degree of the flow models and two Lagrange multipliers that control the weights of two additional constraints. The first constraint forces the energy spectrum of the flow solution to follow a power law
, where l is the SH degree and p is the fourth parameter. The second allows to modulate the solution continuously between the dynamical states of tangential geostrophy (TG) and tangential magnetostrophy (TM). The calculated CAM variations are examined in reference to two features of the observed length‐of‐day (LOD) variation, namely, its secular trend and 6 year oscillation. We find flow models in either TG or TM state for which the estimated CAM trends agree with the LOD trend. It is necessary for TM models to have their flows dominate at planetary scales, whereas TG models should not be of this scale; otherwise, their CAM trends are too steep. These two distinct types of flow model appear to correspond to the separate regimes of previous numerical dynamos that are thought to be applicable to the Earth's core. The phase of the subdecadal CAM variation is coherently determined from flow models obtained with extensively varying inversion settings. Multiple sources of model ambiguity need to be allowed for in discussing whether these phase estimates properly represent that of Earth's CAM as an origin of the observed 6 year LOD oscillation.
An investigation comparing ground‐based techniques that quantify auroral electron flux and conductance
Authors: Kaeppler S. R. , Hampton D. L. , Nicolls M. J. , Strømme A. , Solomon S. C. , Hecht J. H. , Conde M. G.
Published: September 2015

We present three case studies that examine optical and radar methods for specifying precipitating auroral flux parameters and conductances. Three events were chosen corresponding to moderate nonsubstorm auroral activity with 557.7 nm intensities greater than 1kR. A technique that directly fits the electron number density from a forward electron transport model to alternating code incoherent scatter radar data is presented. A method for determining characteristic energy using neutral temperature observations is compared against estimates from the incoherent scatter radar. These techniques are focused on line‐of‐sight observations that are aligned with the local geomagnetic field. Good agreement is found between the optical and incoherent scatter radar methods for estimates of the average energy, energy flux, and conductances. The Pedersen conductance predicted by Robinson et al. (1987) is in very good agreement with estimates calculated from the incoherent scatter radar observations. However, we present an updated form of the relation by Robinson et al. (1987), ΣH/ΣP=0.57〈E〉0.53, which was found to be more consistent with the incoherent scatter radar observations. These results are limited to similar auroral configurations as in these case studies. Case studies are presented that quantify auroral electron flux parameters and conductance estimates which can be used to specify the magnitude of energy dissipated within the ionosphere resulting from magnetospheric driving.
Did the July 2012 solar events cause a “tsunami” throughout the heliosphere, heliosheath, and into the interstellar medium?
Authors: Intriligator Devrie S. , Sun Wei , Dryer Murray , Intriligator James , Deehr Charles , Detman Thomas , Webber William R.
Published: September 2015

The July 2012 major solar events gave rise to manifestations observed at many longitudes/latitudes/radial locations throughout the heliosphere, heliosheath, and into the interstellar medium. For these solar events we present our initial results at 1 AU from our HAFSS (Hakamada‐Akasofu‐Fry Source Surface) three‐dimensional time‐dependent kinematic modeling. Our simulations, using Wang‐Sheeley‐Arge maps and solar event observations, start at 2.5 RS from the center of the Sun. We use both the quiescent background solar conditions and the solar events (e.g., coronal mass ejections (CMEs)) as inputs and propagate outward. We compare HAFSS predictions with in situ spacecraft measurements and conclude that the July 2012 solar events caused a metaphorical “tsunami” in the plasma and magnetic field throughout the heliosphere/heliosheath/interstellar medium. The simulations show evidence of shocks, interaction regions, and rarefaction regions in the inner heliosphere (1 AU) and shocks, global merged interaction regions (GMIRs) and rarefaction regions in the heliosheath. The shocks/interaction regions/GMIRs and the rarefaction regions are, respectively, analogous to the tsunami “crests” and “troughs”. To provide important insights into 3‐D processes, we simulated 1 AU observations (STEREO A and ACE) and observations at Voyager 2 (V2) and Voyager 1 (V1) far off the ecliptic plane: V2 at ~ 30°S, 217° longitude, and 102 AU; V1 at 34°N, 174° longitude, and 124 AU. HAFSS successfully predicted observed CME arrival times at 1 AU. Our results for this tsunami are the first simulations for these events in the distant V2/V1 radial/latitudinal/longitudinal regions based on 3‐D time‐dependent modeling originating at the Sun.
Observation of 27 day solar cycles in the production and mesospheric descent of EPP‐produced NO
Authors: Hendrickx K. , Megner L. , Gumbel J. , Siskind D. E. , Orsolini Y. J. , Tyssøy H. Nesse , Hervig M.
Published: September 2015

Nitric oxide (NO) is produced by energetic particle precipitation (EPP) in the mesosphere‐lower thermosphere (MLT) region, and during the polar winter, NO can descend to stratospheric altitudes where it destroys ozone. In this paper, we study the general scenario, as opposed to a case study, of NO production in the thermosphere due to energetic particles in the auroral region. We first investigate the relationship between NO production and two geomagnetic indices. The analysis indicates that the auroral electrojet index is a more suitable proxy for EPP‐produced NO than the typically used midlatitude Ap index. In order to study the production and downward transport of NO from the lower thermosphere to the mesosphere, we perform superposed epoch analyses on NO observations made by the Solar Occultation For Ice Experiment instrument on board the Aeronomy of Ice in the Mesosphere satellite. The epoch analysis clearly shows the impact of the 27 day solar cycle on NO production. The effect is observed down to an altitude range of about 50 km to 65 km, depending on the hemisphere and the occurrence of stratospheric warmings. Initially, a rapid downward transport is noted during the first 10 days after EPP onset to an altitude of about 80–85 km, which is then followed by a slower downward transport of approximately 1–1.2 km/d to lower mesospheric altitudes in the order of 30 days.
Simulations of the Earth's magnetosphere embedded in sub‐Alfvénic solar wind on 24 and 25 May 2002
Authors: Chané E. , Raeder J. , Saur J. , Neubauer F. M. , Maynard K. M. , Poedts S.
Published: September 2015

During 24 and 25 May 2002, the solar wind conditions at Earth's orbit were very unusual: the density was extremely low (below 0.1/cc) and, as a result, the flow was subfast and sub‐Alfvénic (the Alfvén Mach number was as low as 0.4 in the rest frame of the Earth). Consequently, the Earth's bow shock disappeared and two Alfvén wings formed on the flanks of the magnetosphere. These two long structures (estimated extension of 600 RE for this event) affect the incoming plasma as follows: the velocity is reduced and the magnetic field rotates. In the present study, global magnetohydrodynamical simulations of the magnetosphere are performed for such upstream solar wind conditions. The simulations show how the magnetosphere configuration dramatically changes when the sub‐Alfvénic solar wind reaches the magnetosphere: the dayside magnetopause expands up to 20 RE, and on the nightside the position of the last closed magnetic field line diminishes to 20 RE. As a result the closed magnetic field line region becomes very symmetric. The open field line configuration also changes such that field lines emanating from the Northern Hemisphere all point in the direction of the dawn Alfvén wing (around 8:00 LT), while the field lines from the Southern Hemisphere all point in direction of the other wing (around 22:00 LT). During the formation of the Alfvén wings, the tail lobes completely disappeared and the auroral activity greatly diminished, i.e., the magnetosphere becomes geomagnetically quiet.
Ionospheric current source modeling and global geomagnetic induction using ground geomagnetic observatory data
Authors: Sun J. , Kelbert A. , Egbert G. D.
Published: September 2015

Long‐period global‐scale electromagnetic induction studies of deep Earth conductivity are based almost exclusively on magnetovariational methods and require accurate models of external source spatial structure. We describe approaches to inverting for both the external sources and three‐dimensional (3‐D) conductivity variations and apply these methods to long‐period (T≥1.2 days) geomagnetic observatory data. Our scheme involves three steps: (1) Observatory data from 60 years (only partly overlapping and with many large gaps) are reduced and merged into dominant spatial modes using a scheme based on frequency domain principal components. (2) Resulting modes are inverted for corresponding external source spatial structure, using a simplified conductivity model with radial variations overlain by a two‐dimensional thin sheet. The source inversion is regularized using a physically based source covariance, generated through superposition of correlated tilted zonal (quasi‐dipole) current loops, representing ionospheric source complexity smoothed by Earth rotation. Free parameters in the source covariance model are tuned by a leave‐one‐out cross‐validation scheme. (3) The estimated data modes are inverted for 3‐D Earth conductivity, assuming the source excitation estimated in step 2. Together, these developments constitute key components in a practical scheme for simultaneous inversion of the catalogue of historical and modern observatory data for external source spatial structure and 3‐D Earth conductivity.