bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of VLT/X-shooter OH and O2 rotational temperatures with consideration of TIMED/SABER emission and temperature profiles
Authors: Noll Stefan , Kausch Wolfgang , Kimeswenger Stefan , Unterguggenberger Stefanie , Jones Amy M.
Published: April 2016

Abstract. Rotational temperatures Trot derived from lines of the same OH band are an important method to study the dynamics and long-term trends in the mesopause region near 87 km. To measure realistic temperatures, the rotational level populations have to be in local thermodynamic equilibrium (LTE). However, this might not be fulfilled, especially at high emission altitudes. In order to quantify possible non-LTE contributions to the OH Trot as a function of the upper vibrational level v′, we studied a sample of 343 echelle spectra taken with the X-shooter spectrograph at the Very Large Telescope at Cerro Paranal in Chile. These data allowed us to analyse 25 OH bands in each spectrum. Moreover, we could measure lines of O2b(0-1), which peaks at about 94 to 95 km, and O2a(0-0) with an emission peak at about 90 km. The latter altitude is reached in the second half of the night after a rise of several km because of the decay of a daytime population of excited O2. Since the radiative lifetimes for the upper levels of the two O2 bands are relatively long, the derived Trot are not significantly affected by non-LTE contributions. These bands are well suited for a comparison with OH if the differences in the emission profiles are corrected. For different sample averages, we made these corrections by using OH emission, O2a(0-0) emission, and CO2-based temperature profile data from the multi-channel radiometer SABER on the TIMED satellite. The procedure relies on differences of profile-weighted SABER temperatures. For an O2a(0-0)-based reference profile at 90 km, we found a good agreement of the O2 with the SABER-related temperatures, whereas the OH temperatures, especially for the high and even v′, showed significant excesses with a maximum of more than 10 K for v′ = 8. The exact value depends on the selected lines and molecular parameters. We could also find a nocturnal trend towards higher non-LTE effects, particularly for high v′. The amplitude of these variations can be about 2 K or less, which tends to be significantly smaller than the total amount of the non-LTE contributions. The variations revealed may be important for dynamical studies based on Trot derived from OH bands with high v′.
A 413-year tree-ring based April-July minimum temperature reconstruction and its implications on the extreme climate events, northeast China
Authors: Lyu S. , Li Z. , Zhang Y. , Wang X.
Published: April 2016

Abstract. A ring-width series was used as a proxy to reconstruct the past 413-year record of April-July minimum temperature at Laobai Mountain, northeastern China. Chronology was built using standard tree-ring procedures for providing comparable information in this area while preserving low-frequency signals. By analyzing the relationship between the tree-ring chronology of the Korean pine (Pinus koraiensis) and meteorological data, we found that the standard chronology was significantly correlated with the April-July minimum temperature (r = 0.76). Therefore, the April-July minimum temperature since 1600 was reconstructed by this tree-ring series. The reconstruction equation accounted for 57.3 % of temperature variation, and it proved reliable by testing with several methods (e.g., sign test, product mean test, reduction of error, and coefficient error). Reconstructed April-July minimum temperature in Laobai Mountains showed five cool periods (1605–1681, 1684–1690, 1747–1756, 1914–1922, and 1953–1966) and eight warm periods (1697–1704, 1767–1785, 1787–1793, 1795–1801, 1803–1808, 1816–1826, 1835–1878, and 1987–2008) during the past 413 years. The reconstructed low temperature periods in the 17th and early 18th century were consistent with the Little Ice Age in the Northern Hemisphere, and the rate of warming in the 19th century was significantly slower than that in late 20th century. In addition, the reconstructed series was fairly consistent with the historical and natural disaster records of extreme climate events (e.g., cold damage and frost disaster) in this area, and it exhibited 128-60-, 23-22-, 12-10-, 4.0-2.7-, and 2.4-year periods of warm-cool changes, which may be related to variations in sunspot activity or other large-scale interactions between the ocean and the atmosphere.
Atmospheric rivers moisture sources from a Lagrangian perspective
Authors: Ramos Alexandre M. , Nieto Raquel , Tomé Ricardo , Gimeno Luis , Trigo Ricardo M. , Liberato Margarida L. R. , Lavers David A.
Published: April 2016

Abstract. An automated atmospheric river (AR) detection algorithm is used for the North Atlantic Ocean basin, allowing the identification of the major ARs affecting western European coasts between 1979 and 2012 over the winter half-year (October to March). The entire western coast of Europe was divided into five domains, namely the Iberian Peninsula (9.75° W, 36–43.75° N), France (4.5° W, 43.75–50° N), UK (4.5° W, 50–59° N), southern Scandinavia and the Netherlands (5.25° E, 50–59° N), and northern Scandinavia (5.25° E, 59–70° N). Following the identification of the main ARs that made landfall in western Europe, a Lagrangian analysis was then applied in order to identify the main areas where the moisture uptake was anomalous and contributed to the ARs reaching each domain. The Lagrangian data set used was obtained from the FLEXPART (FLEXible PARTicle dispersion) model global simulation from 1979 to 2012 and was forced by ERA-Interim reanalysis on a 1° latitude–longitude grid. The results show that, in general, for all regions considered, the major climatological areas for the anomalous moisture uptake extend along the subtropical North Atlantic, from the Florida Peninsula (northward of 20° N) to each sink region, with the nearest coast to each sink region always appearing as a local maximum. In addition, during AR events the Atlantic subtropical source is reinforced and displaced, with a slight northward movement of the sources found when the sink region is positioned at higher latitudes. In conclusion, the results confirm not only the anomalous advection of moisture linked to ARs from subtropical ocean areas but also the existence of a tropical source, together with midlatitude anomaly sources at some locations closer to AR landfalls.
New insights into flood warning and emergency response from the perspective of affected parties
Authors: Kreibich Heidi , Pech Ina , Schröter Kai , Müller Meike , Thieken Annegret H.
Published: April 2016

Abstract. Early warning is essential for protecting people and mitigating damage in case of flood events. However, early warning is only helpful if the parties at risk are reached by the warning, if they believe the warning and if they know how to react appropriately. Finding suitable methods for communicating helpful warnings to the "last mile" remains a challenge. To gain more knowledge, surveys were undertaken after the August 2002 and the June 2013 floods in Germany, asking affected private households and companies about warnings they received and emergency measures they undertook. Results show that in 2002 early warning did not work well: in many areas warnings came late or were imprecise. Many people (27 %) and companies (45 %) stated that they had not received any flood warning. Additionally, preparedness of private households and companies was low before 2002, mainly due to a lack of flood experience. After the 2002 flood, many initiatives were launched and investments undertaken to improve flood risk management including the flood warning systems in Germany. In 2013 only a small share of the affected people (7 %) and companies (7 %) were not reached by any warning. Additionally, also private households and companies were better prepared. For instance, the share of companies which have an emergency plan in place has increased from 10 % in 2002 to 26 % in 2013. However, there is still room for improvement. Therefore, integrated early warning systems from monitoring through to the reaction of the affected parties as well as effective risk and emergency communication need continuous further improvement.
A new X-ray-transparent flow-through reaction cell for a μ-CT-based concomitant surveillance of the reaction progress of hydrothermal mineral–fluid interactions
Authors: Kahl Wolf-Achim , Hansen Christian , Bach Wolfgang
Published: April 2016

Abstract. A new flow-through reaction cell consisting of an X-ray-transparent semicrystalline thermoplastic has been developed for percolation experiments. Core holder, tubing and all confining parts are constructed using PEEK (polyetheretherketone) to allow concomitant surveillance of the reaction progress by X-ray microtomography (μ-CT). With this cell setup, corrosive or oversaturated fluids can be forced through rock cores (up to ∅ 19 mm) or powders at pressures up to 100 bar and temperatures up to 200 °C. The reaction progress of the experiment can be monitored without dismantling the sample from the core holder. The combination of this flow-through reaction cell setup with a laboratory X-ray μ-CT system facilitates on-demand monitoring of the reaction progress of (long-term) hydrothermal experiments in the own laboratory, keeping interruption times as short as possible. To demonstrate both the suitability of the cell construction material for X-ray imaging purposes and the experimental performance of the flow-through system, we report the virtually non-existent bias of the PEEK cell setup with distinctive X-ray observations (e.g., differing states of pore fillings: air vs. fluid; detection of delicate fabric elements: filigree zeolite crystals overgrowing weathered muscovite), and the monitoring of the gypsum/anhydrite transition as a case study of a 4-D fabric evolution.
Interactions between organisms and parent materials of a constructed Technosol shape its hydrostructural properties
Authors: Deeb Maha , Grimaldi Michel , Lerch Thomas Z. , Pando Anne , Gigon Agnès , Blouin Manuel
Published: April 2016

Abstract. There is no information on how organisms influence hydrostructural properties of constructed Technosols and how such influence will be affected by the parent-material composition factor. In a laboratory experiment, parent materials, which were excavated deep horizons of soils and green waste compost (GWC), were mixed at six levels of GWC (from 0 to 50 %). Each mixture was set up in the presence/absence of plants and/or earthworms, in a full factorial design (n  =  96). After 21 weeks, hydrostructural properties of constructed Technosols were characterized by soil shrinkage curves. Organisms explained the variance of hydrostructural characteristics (19 %) a little better than parent-material composition (14 %). The interaction between the effects of organisms and parent-material composition explained the variance far better (39 %) than each single factor. To summarize, compost and plants played a positive role in increasing available water in macropores and micropores; plants were extending the positive effect of compost up to 40 and 50 % GWC. Earthworms affected the void ratio for mixtures from 0 to 30 % GWC and available water in micropores, but not in macropores. Earthworms also acted synergistically with plants by increasing their root biomass, resulting in positive effects on available water in macropores. Organisms and their interaction with parent materials positively affected the hydrostructural properties of constructed Technosols, with potential positive consequences on resistance to drought or compaction. Considering organisms when creating Technosols could be a promising approach to improve their fertility.
Effects of warming on a Mediterranean phytoplankton community
Authors: Pulina Silvia , Brutemark Andreas , Suikkanen Sanna , Padedda Bachisio M. , Grubisic Lorena M. , Satta Cecilia T. , Caddeo Tiziana , Farina Pasqualina , Sechi Nicola , Lugliè Antonella
Published: April 2016

Abstract. Predicting the responses of organisms is a complex challenge especially when water temperature is expected to increase over the coming decades, as a result of global warming. In this work the effects of warming on phytoplankton communities were investigated. An indoor experiment was performed, where water from a Mediterranean lagoon was incubated at different temperatures. Three treatments were applied in triplicate incubation units: the control (11 °C), 3 °C increase (14 °C), and 6 °C increase (17 °C). Our results showed significant effects by warming on phytoplankton. The abundance of relatively smaller taxa (Chlorella sp. and Planktothrix agardhii–rubescens group) increased at 17 °C, whereas the abundance of relatively larger species (Cyclotella sp. and Thalassiosira sp.) decreased, compared with the control. This shift towards smaller taxa resulted in a higher total biomass but lower chlorophyll a concentrations at the highest temperature.
The Results of Monoblock Stem with Step-Cut Femoral Shortening Osteotomy for Developmentally Dislocated HIPS
Authors: Tözün İsmail Remzi , Akgül Turgut , Şensoy Volkan , Kılıçoğlu Önder İsmet
Published: April 2016

Introduction

The main objective of this study was to evaluate the midterm results of cementless THA with the use of monoblock stems combined with step-cut femoral shortening derotational osteotomy for DDH.

Materials and methods

A total of 66 hips of 49 patients with Crowe type IV developmental hip dislocation, with a mean follow-up of 90 (range 26-207) months, were reviewed retrospectively. Subtrochanteric step-cut shortening osteotomy and monoblock femoral stems were used. The cup was placed in the true acetabulum in all cases. 21 hips had previous femoral valgisation osteotomies. Anteroposterior and lateral radiographs of both hips were obtained preoperatively and at the last follow-up examination. The Harris Hip Score (HHS) was used for pre- and postoperative clinical evaluation.

Results

The mean HHS increased from 49 to 86 points. A total of 13 hips of 10 patients (the isolated acetabular component in 7 hips of 6 patients, the femoral component in 3 hips of 3 patients, and both components in 2 patients) were revised during the follow-up period. Dislocation occurred in 3 hips, deep periprosthetic infection in 2, superficial wound infection in 2, and femoral vein injury and sciatic nerve palsy in 1. Nonunion was observed in 3 osteotomy sites. 10-year survival probabilities of 91% for femoral components for all cases and 78% for acetabular components were found.

Conclusions

THA with subtrochanteric femoral shortening osteotomy was proven to be an effective technique for avoiding neurological complications for Crowe IV DDH. Cementless THA with the use of monoblock stems showed overall survival rates of 95% at 5 years and 85% at 10 years.
Radiographic Alterations in Short-Stem Total HIP Arthroplasty: A 2-Year Follow-Up Study of 216 Cases
Authors: Kutzner Karl P. , Pfeil Dominik , Kovacevic Mark P. , Rehbein Philipp , Mai Sabine , Siebert Werner , Pfeil Joachim
Published: April 2016

Introduction

In recent years a variety of short-stems have been introduced. Stable osteointegration is a key factor for a satisfactory long-term result. The purpose of this study was to evaluate postoperative radiological alterations and subsidence, as a result of using a newly developed device, over a 2-year follow-up.

Methods

216 short-stems were implanted in combination with a cementless cup. Patients were allowed full weight-bearing on the first day postoperatively. Pre- and postoperative x-rays were done using a standardised technique. Radiological alterations, such as bone resorption, radiolucency, osteolysis and cortical hypertrophy were detected and located using modified Gruen zones, and subsidence was measured via a conventional digital technique over a 2-year follow-up. In addition, Harris Hip Score (HHS), rest pain and load pain on the visual analogue scale (VAS) were assessed respectively.

Results

At 2-year follow-up 6 stems (2.9%) showed nonprogressive radiolucent lines with a maximum width of 2 mm. Resorption of femoral bone stock was detected in a total of 8 cases (3.9%). Femoral cortical hypertrophy was seen in a total of 9 hips (4.4%). No patient showed osteolysis. A measureable subsidence of at least 2 mm was observed in a total of 15.7% (32 cases) after 6 weeks, corresponding to an initial settlement given full weight-bearing ambulation. Only 1.1% (2 cases) showed further progression at the 6-month follow-up, whereas at the 1- and 2-year follow-ups no further subsidence was observed. After 2 years HHS was 98.1 (65.0-100.0), rest pain on the VAS was 0.2 (0.0-7.0) while load pain was 0.4 (0.0-7.0).

Conclusions

The results of this radiographic analysis give support to the principle of using metaphyseal anchoring, calcar guided short-stems. The low incidence of bony alterations after a follow-up of 2 years indicates a physiological load distribution. After mild initial subsidence a stable osteointegration can be achieved over time.
Long-Term Outcomes of the Bi-Metric Proximally Hydroxyapatite-Coated Femoral Stem
Authors: Prins Wybren , Goosen Jon H.M. , Kollen Boudewijn J. , Ettema Harmen B. , Verheyen Cees C.P.M.
Published: April 2016

Purpose

Promising clinical results and survival rates have been reported for the Bi-Metric proximally hydroxyapatite (HA)-coated femoral stem in short- and mid-term studies. In this study we evaluated the long-term survival as well as clinical and radiological results of this stem.

Methods

From 1992 to 1998 we prospectively included 112 consecutive patients who received a total hip arthroplasty (THA) with an uncemented proximally HA-coated Bi-Metric femoral component (Biomet). At 3 months, 1 year and thereafter every 2 to 3 years, patients were clinically and radiologically monitored. Primary endpoint was revision of the stem for any reason. Secondary endpoints were survival of the cup and THA, radiological characteristics and clinical scores (HHS, HOOS, SF-36 and VAS).

Results

Median follow-up was 20 (16-22.25) years. Median age at surgery was 52 (22-63) years. At final follow-up, survival analysis showed an all-cause stem survival of 96.8% (95% CI, 93.3-100). Median HHS scores improved from 57 preoperatively to 94 at final follow-up (p<0.001). At final follow-up the median HOOS score was 80 (9-100); median SF-36 score 71 (18-100); median VAS pain score at rest 0 (0-6) and during activity 0 (0-10).

Conclusions

In this prospective cohort study the 20-year survival rate of the Bi-Metric proximally HA-coated femoral stem was excellent.
Effect of Endometriosis on IVF Outcomes in Cases of Single Embryo Transfer for first IVF Attempt in Patients under 35
Authors: Chauffour Candice , Pouly Jean L. , Brugnon Florence , Dejou Lydie , Gremeau Anne S. , Janny Laurent , Philippe Anne G.
Published: April 2016

Background

Implantation disorders are regarded differently in different groups undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) because of heterogeneous patient populations. To avoid this problem, this study was based solely on the first attempts of a single embryo transfer in patients under the age of 35.

Methods

This was a retrospective comparative study with 2 groups of patients: a group with endometriosis (n = 288) and a group without endometriosis (n = 1,368), registered from January 2010 to December 2013 in the IVF center of the University Hospital of Clermont-Ferrand. This study compared the 2 groups and subgroups according to ovarian response and embryo quality, and analyzed oocyte number, embryo number, transfer rate, implantation rate and delivery rate per ovum pick-up and per transfer.

Results

In the cases of endometriosis, the number of collected oocytes (8.37 ± 7.01 vs. 10.13 ± 6.53 p<0.001), the transfer rate (81.4% vs. 86.1%, p = 0. 045) and the rate of cycles with a frozen embryo (48.9% vs. 57.3%, p<0.01) were lower. The probability of a satisfactory response to stimulation (70.7% vs. 81.0%, p<0.001) and of a good quality embryo cohort (45% vs. 52%, p = 0.003) was lower. However, the implantation and delivery rates per transfer were not distorted in the cases of endometriosis, either in the total group or in any subgroup. The cumulative live birth rate per attempt was similar (29.2% vs. 29.5%).

Conclusions

Endometriosis has no impact on the embryo transfer in IVF, particularly when the embryo quality is satisfactory.
Systemic sclerosis trial design moving forward
Authors: Johnson Sindhu R. , Khanna Dinesh , Allanore Yannick , Matucci-Cerinic Marco , Furst Daniel E.
Published: April 2016

The 2013 American College of Rheumatology–European League Against Rheumatism (ACR–EULAR) classification criteria for systemic sclerosis (SSc) have shifted the construct of SSc. The new reality is that patients recruited for trials may not be so severe and not so advanced. We can now look for therapeutics that might stop disease evolution and/or prevent organ involvement. This article highlights recent advances in research methodology, and broadens the potential range of design and analytic considerations when planning an SSc trial.
Effect of endothelin-1 receptor antagonists on skin fibrosis in scleroderma patients from the EUSTAR database
Authors: Jordan Suzana , Distler Jörg , Maurer Britta , Walker Ulrich A. , Huscher Doerte , Allanore Yannick , Riemekasten Gabriela , Distler Oliver
Published: April 2016

Introduction

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of endothelin-1 receptor antagonists (ETRAs) on skin fibrosis in systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients from the (EULAR Scleroderma Trials and Research) EUSTAR cohort.

Methods

SSc patients from the EUSTAR cohort with at least three visits (pre-study visit without ETRA treatment, baseline and follow-up visit with ETRA treatment) were included. The control group consisted of SSc patients with the same inclusion criteria, but without ETRA treatment. The primary endpoint was the comparison of the delta change of the modified Rodnan skin score (mRSS) between baseline and follow-up in the ETRA versus the control group.

Results

Data on 75 ETRA treated (68 bosentan, 1 sitaxentan, 6 ambrisentan) and 969 control patients were included. The delta change of mRSS was not significantly different between the ETRA group and the control group (n = 969; 0 (-2-1) vs. n = 75; 0 (-2-1); p = 0.4). Similarly, subgroup analysis on patients with diffuse, extended SSc disease (mRSS ≥16) did not show differences in the delta change of mRSS between the ETRA group and the control group (n = 125; −1 [-7-0] vs. n = 23; −1 [-7-2], p = 0.8). Likewise, diffuse SSc patients with mRSS 7-21 at baseline, reflecting recently identified enrichment criteria for clinical trials, did not show any difference between the ETRA and the control group (n = 219; −1 [-3-1] vs. n = 27; −1 [-3-2]; p = 0.5).

Conclusions

This controlled, observational, real-life cohort study with a large sample size did not show effects of ETRAs on skin fibrosis in patients with SSc.
Mycophenolate mofetil following cyclophosphamide in worsening systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease
Authors: Launay David , Buchdahl Anne-Laure , Berezné Alice , Hatron Pierre-Yves , Hachulla Eric , Mouthon Luc
Published: April 2016

Objectives

Randomized controlled trials have shown that cyclophosphamide (CYC) was an option in systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD). The observed improvement disappeared after CYC was stopped suggesting that a maintenance regimen was mandatory. Immunosuppressants were suggested to be more effective in patients with worsening (i.e., with worsening of dyspnea and/or pulmonary functional tests) SSc-ILD. We aimed to assess the efficacy of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) as a maintenance regimen after CYC in worsening SSc-ILD.

Methods

All patients (n = 20) with worsening SSc-ILD were retrospectively included. Treatment consisted of 6 to 12 monthly pulses of CYC followed by MMF and response was assessed by the evolution of the forced vital capacity (FVC) and carbon monoxide diffusing capacity (DLCO) during follow-up.

Results

At the end of CYC pulses, SSc-ILD had improved in 7 (35%) patients, stabilized in 10 (50%) (i.e., 85% of responders) and worsened in 3 (15%) when compared to baseline. After 6 months of MMF, 70% were still responders while 30% had worsened when compared to baseline (i.e., before CYC). After 12 months on MMF, 55% were responders and 45% had worsened when compared to baseline. Evolution of the FVC slope significantly improved on CYC as well as on MMF.

Conclusions

A strategy combining IV CYC followed by maintenance MMF for worsening SSc-ILD was associated with stabilization or improvement of pulmonary function tests in only 55% of patients after 12 months of MMF. This suggests that careful monitoring for worsening is mandatory during MMF maintenance and that improvement in managing worsening SSc-ILD is still needed.
A randomized controlled trial of acupressure for the treatment of Raynaud's phenomenon: the difficulty of conducting a trial in Raynaud's phenomenon
Authors: Gladue Heather , Berrocal Veronica , Harris Richard , Tsou Pei-Suen , Edhayan Gautam , Ohara Ray , Khanna Dinesh
Published: April 2016

Objective

To examine the effect of acupressure on Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) in a randomized controlled clinical trial (RCT) and to evaluate the difficulties of conducting an RP RCT.

Methods

A pilot single-center RCT of acupressure versus targeted patient education was conducted for the treatment of RP. Patients with either primary (n = 15) or secondary (n = 8) RP were randomized in an 8-week study. The primary endpoints included a decrease in the frequency and duration of RP. Secondary endpoints included several serum biomarkers including endothelial dysfunction, Raynaud's attack symptoms, Raynaud's Condition Score, and patient and physician global assessments of RP. Primary data analysis was conducted using the last observation carried forward and t-tests or a Wilcoxon rank test was used to compare the two groups.

Results

Twenty-three patients were randomized and seven discontinued prematurely. Seventy-eight percent of patients were female, 96% were Caucasian, and the mean age was 49.8 (SD = 16) years. No statistically significant differences were detected between the acupressure versus education groups in primary and secondary outcomes (p>0.05). Frequency of attacks decreased by 6.7 attacks (SD = 8.8) in the acupressure group versus 7.2 (SD = 12.8) in the education group (p = 0.96), and the duration of attacks decreased by 11.4 (SD = 19.9) minutes in the acupressure group versus an increase of 0.8 minutes (SD = 11.2) in the education group (p = 0.14). There were no adverse events noted in the RCT.

Conclusions

This pilot study does not support efficacy of acupressure for RP.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01784354. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01784354?term=acupressure&rank=15
The Novel use of Infrared Thermal Imaging as an Adjunct for the Management of Haemodialysis Access Induced Distal Ischaemia
Authors: Al Shakarchi Julien , Mellor Steve , Inston Nicholas
Published: April 2016

Introduction

Haemodialysis access-induced distal ischaemia (HAIDI) whilst unusual may be a difficult complication to diagnose and manage particularly in patients with small vessel disease. Infrared thermal imaging (IRTI) has been used for several decades to monitor cutaneous temperature distribution and has been used in medical applications. The use of IRTI in HAIDI is attractive as it can be used as a non-invasive measure of tissue perfusion.

Method and Results

To assess the applicability of IRTI in HAIDI, three cases were assessed and are described. IRTI was well tolerated and provided useful clinical information in all three cases, which was confirmed with further studies.

Conclusions

This small case series reports on the successful use of infrared thermal imaging in the diagnosis and management of possible HAIDI and may support wider study and use.
The Influence of Environmental Conditions on the Incidence of Renal Colic in Rome
Authors: Gaziev Gabriele , Asimakopoulos Anastasios D. , Wadhwa Karan , Topazio Luca , Germani Stefano , Miano Roberto
Published: April 2016

Introduction

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of three major environmental variables (temperature, humidity, air pressure) on the probability of onset of renal colic (RC) in a large cohort of patients in Rome.

Methods

The records of 2682 patients discharged by the Emergency Department (ED) of the University Hospital of Tor Vergata, Rome, from January 2007 to November 2009 with the main diagnosis of reno-ureteric colic associated with a proven calculus, were retrospectively evaluated. The climatic parameters (average humidity, average air pressure and daily minimum, medium and maximum temperature) were recorded in a second, independent database. RC events were grouped by weeks and months and analysed for a total period of 35 months and 153 weeks.

Results

Two thousand five hundred and fourteen patients out of 2682 had a proven urolithiasis. RC events were observed more likely in the warmer months, from the second half of June to the first half of September, compared with the colder months. Although the weekly model showed a positive correlation (R2 = 0.134) between the average increase of environmental temperature and RC incidence, the monthly model was much more convincing (R2 = 0.373). We found no statistically significant correlation between humidity and air pressure and the incidence of RC.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that an increase in average environmental temperature is associated with a significant increase in the number of episodes of RC seen in the ED at both weekly and monthly time intervals. The average humidity and air pressure were not found to be associated with an increased incidence of RC.
Prospective Randomized Comparison of Three Endoscopic Modalities used in Treatment of Bladder Stones
Authors: Bansal Ankur , Kumar Manoj , Sankhwar Satyanarayan , Goel Sunny , Patodia Madhusudan , Aeron Ruchir , Bhaskar Ved
Published: April 2016

Introduction

The aim of this study was to compare three endoscopic modalities used in the treatment of bladder stones: transurethral use of cystoscope or nephroscope and percutaneous cystolithotripsy (PCCL).

Methods

This study included 210 patients of bladder stone treated at a tertiary care centre in North India from January 2006 to July 2013 who were randomly assigned into three groups: group 1 (transurethral removal using cystoscope), group 2 (transurethral removal using nephroscope) and group 3 (PCCL). Baseline and perioperative data wererecorded and compared between three groups.

Results

Baseline parameters were comparable between the three groups. Operating time in group 2 was significantly less than the other two groups. Complete clearance was achieved in all the patients. Group 2 had maximum number of urethral entries. The incidence of perioperative complications (fever, transient haematuria and persistent leakage from suprapubic site) was comparable between these three groups. Till the last follow-up, 3.2% patients (n = 2) developed urethral stricture in group 1, 7.8% (n = 5) in group 2 and no patient developed urethral stricture in group 3 (p = 0.068).

Conclusions

Removal of bladder stones by the transurethral route, using a nephroscope, is the most effective treatment modality in terms of operative time with long-term urethral stricture rate similar to transurethral cystoscope technique. Comparatively, PCCL is a safe procedure with acceptable morbidity. Overall, all three techniques are equally efficacious in treating bladder stones of size 1-4 cm.
Complications of the First 500 Extra-Peritoneal Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy (EP-RARP) Cases in an Italian Medium Volume Centre
Authors: Fulcoli Vittorio , Andrisano Alessandro , Costa Giuseppe , Laurini Lucio
Published: April 2016

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and the predictors of postoperative complications in Extra-Peritoneal Robot Assisted Radical Prostatectomy (EP-RARP), and also to test the influence of the surgeons skills on perioperative variables and complications.

Materials and methods

Data from the first consecutive 500 patients who underwent EP-RARP were prospectively collected from December 2004 and June 2014. Mean follow-up was 55.7 months. Standardized criteria were used to report the procedural complications. Independent predictors of complications were examined through multivariate analysis using logistic regression models. The influence of the surgeons learning curves on perioperative variables was tested.

Results

One hundred fifty (30%) patients experienced complications, with 104 medical complications in 95 (19%) patients and 89 surgical complications in 72 (14.4%) patients. There were 17 major (Clavien IIIa-b) surgical complications in 15 (3%) patients, with no mortality. Multivariate analysis showed that Charlson score [odds ratio: 1.514; 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 1.145-2.002; p = 0.0003] and gastroenteric diseases (odds ratio 1.108; 95% CI: 1.108-4.560; p = 0.003) were the best predictors of medical complications and cT1c/T2a stages (odds ratio: 2.697; 95% CI: 1.319-5.514; p<0.0001) and blood transfusions (odds ratio: 3.328; 95% CI: 1.471-7.530; p<0.0001) were strongly related to surgical complications. Finally, the statistical evaluation showed that all considered perioperative variables, except the complication rates, improved during the study period.

Conclusions

With a precise report of the morbidity related to EP-RARP, this study showed that complications were relatively frequent, but their severity was generally low.
Magic Finger Teaching Method in Learning Multiplication Facts among Deaf Students
Authors: Thai Liong Kon , Mohd Yasin Mohd. Hanafi
Published: April 2016

Deaf students face problems in mastering multiplication facts. This study aims to identify the effectiveness of Magic Finger Teaching Method (MFTM) and students’ perception towards MFTM. The research employs a quasi experimental with non-equivalent pre-test and post-test control group design. Pre-test, post-test and questionnaires were used. As many as 70 deaf students from three special education primary schools in Selangor and Federal Territory were gathered as research respondent. Data were analyzed by using descriptive and inferential statistics of t-test. Findings from the t-test analysis showed that MFTM has a significant effect on multiplication facts achievement among deaf students whereas conventional teaching method does not given a significant effect on multiplication facts achievement among them. The findings from questionnaires found that the deaf students have high level of perception towards MFTM in the dimensions of interest, self-confidence, persistence and motivation in learning multiplication facts. The findings serves as an implication towards students, parents, teachers, Special Education Division and Malaysia Education Ministry in terms of awareness, involvement, planning and implementation in the context of diversifying of multiplication facts teaching method, and the suitability of supporting materials in teaching and learning multiplication facts.
Kans op meerwaarde van rekenkamers
Authors: van Dam Marcel , de Vaan Katrien
Published: April 2016

Kans op meerwaarde van rekenkamers

De meerwaarde van lokale rekenkamers is nog niet vanzelfsprekend. In dit artikel betogen de auteurs dat deze wordt beïnvloed door drie factoren: de relatie met de andere spelers in het lokale politiek-bestuurlijke krachtenveld, de kwaliteit van hun werk, en de processen waarmee dat werk een plaats krijgt in de gemeentelijke beleids- en besluitvorming. De ultieme meerwaarde van lokale rekenkamers zoeken zij niet in de onafhankelijkheid van de rekenkamer of in diens onderzoeken an sich, maar in de onzichtbare beïnvloeding van beleids- en besluitvorming door de robuuste positie van het instituut, in termen van onder meer waardering, gezag en vanzelfsprekendheid; een positie die wordt beïnvloed door bovengenoemde drie factoren. De toekomstige opgave voor gemeenteraden en rekenkamers ligt er dan ook in om verder te kijken dan de structuur, en met elkaar het gesprek over de rekenkamer te voeren op de punten relatie, kwaliteit en proces.
Ruthenium redox equilibria: 3. Pourbaix diagrams for the systems Ru-H2O and Ru-Cl--H2O
Authors: Povar Igor , Spinu Oxana
Published: April 2016

On the basis of selected thermodynamic data, the standard electrode potentials of pos­sible half reactions in the Ru-H2O and Ru-Cl--H2O systems have been calculated. Using the thermodynamic approach developed by the authors, the potential - pH and potential - pCl diagrams for the considered system have been built.
Effect of Subcritical Fluid Extraction on the High Quality of Headspace Oil from Jasminum sambac (L.) Aiton
Authors: Ye Qiuping , Jin Xinyi , Wei Shiqin , Zheng Gongyu , Li Xinlei
Published: April 2016

Subcritical fluid extraction (SFE), as a novel method, was applied to investigate the yield, quality, and sensory evaluation of headspace oil from Jasminum sambac (L.) Aiton in comparison with petroleum ether extraction (PEE). The results indicated that the yield of the headspace oil using SFE was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than when using PEE. SFE contributed to obtaining alcohols and ethers, prevented the thermal reaction of terpenes, and reduced α-caryophyllene and β-caryophyllene in the headspace oil. The contents of linalool (21.90%) and benzyl acetate (16.31%) were higher via SFE than PEE. In addition, the sensory evaluation of SFE was superior to PEE, indicating a fresh, jasmine-like odor and green-yellow color. Thus, SFE is an improved method for obtaining natural headspace oil from jasmine flowers.
Local Application of Isogenic Adipose-Derived Stem Cells Restores Bone Healing Capacity in a Type 2 Diabetes Model
Authors: Wallner Christoph , Abraham Stephanie , Wagner Johannes Maximilian , Harati Kamran , Ismer Britta , Kessler Lukas , Zöllner Hannah , Lehnhardt Marcus , Behr Björn
Published: April 2016

Bone regeneration is typically a reliable process without scar formation. The endocrine disease type 2 diabetes prolongs and impairs this healing process. In a previous work, we showed that angiogenesis and osteogenesis—essential steps of bone regeneration—are deteriorated, accompanied by reduced proliferation in type 2 diabetic bone regeneration. The aim of the study was to improve these mechanisms by local application of adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) and facilitate bone regeneration in impaired diabetic bone regeneration. The availability of ASCs in great numbers and the relative ease of harvest offers unique advantages over other mesenchymal stem cell entities. A previously described unicortical tibial defect model was utilized in diabetic mice (Leprdb−/−). Isogenic mouse adipose-derived stem cells (mASCs)db−/db− were harvested, transfected with a green fluorescent protein vector, and isografted into tibial defects (150,000 living cells per defect). Alternatively, control groups were treated with Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium or mASCsWT. In addition, wild-type mice were identically treated. By means of immunohistochemistry, proteins specific for angiogenesis, cell proliferation, cell differentiation, and bone formation were analyzed at early (3 days) and late (7 days) stages of bone regeneration. Additionally, histomorphometry was performed to examine bone formation rate and remodeling. Histomorphometry revealed significantly increased bone formation in mASCdb−/db−-treated diabetic mice as compared with the respective control groups. Furthermore, locally applied mASCsdb−/db− significantly enhanced neovascularization and osteogenic differentiation. Moreover, bone remodeling was upregulated in stem cell treatment groups. Local application of mACSs can restore impaired diabetic bone regeneration and may represent a therapeutic option for the future.

Significance

This study showed that stem cells obtained from fat pads of type 2 diabetic mice are capable of reconstituting impaired bone regeneration in type 2 diabetes. These multipotent stem cells promote both angiogenesis and osteogenesis in type 2 diabetic bony defects. These data might prove to have great clinical implications for bony defects in the ever-increasing type 2 diabetic patient population.
Hypoxic Conditioned Medium From Human Adipose-Derived Stem Cells Promotes Mouse Liver Regeneration Through JAK/STAT3 Signaling
Authors: Lee Sang Chul , Jeong Hye Jin , Lee Sang Kuon , Kim Say-June
Published: April 2016

Adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) mainly exert their function by secreting materials that are collectively termed the secretome. Despite recent attention to the secretome as an alternative to stem cell therapy, the culture conditions for generating optimal secretome contents have not been determined. Therefore, we investigated the role of hypoxic-conditioned media (HCM) from ASCs. Normoxic-conditioned media (NCM) and HCM were obtained after culturing ASCs in 20% O2 or 1% O2 for 24 hours, respectively. Subsequently, partially hepatectomized mice were infused with saline, control medium, NCM, or HCM, and then sera and liver specimens were obtained for analyses. Hypoxia (1% O2) significantly increased mRNA expression of mediators from ASCs, including interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). HCM infusion significantly increased the number of Ki67-positive cells in the liver (p < .05). HCM infusion significantly increased phospho-signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and decreased suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) expression in the liver (p < .05). To determine the role of IL-6 in liver regeneration, we then performed IL-6 RNA interference study. Conditioned media (CM) obtained from ASCs, which were transfected with either siIL-6 or siControl, were administered to partially hepatectomized mice. The siIL-6 CM groups exhibited lower liver proliferation (Ki67-positive cells) and markers of regeneration (protein expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen, p-STAT3, HGF, and VEGF and liver weights) than the siControl CM groups (p < .05). Taken together, hypoxic preconditioning of ASCs increased expression of mediators promoting anti-inflammatory and regenerative responses. The liver regenerative effects of HCM appear to be mediated by persistent and uninhibited expression of STAT3 in the liver, which results from decreased expression of SOCS3.

Significance

In this study, it was found that treatment with the medium from hypoxic-preconditioned adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) increased the viability of hepatotoxic hepatocytes and enhance liver regeneration in partially hepatectomized mice. In addition, the researchers first revealed that the hepatoprotective effects of hypoxic-conditioned media are mediated by persistent and uninhibited expression of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 in the liver, which result from a decreased expression of suppressor of cytokine signaling 3. Therefore, the hypoxic preconditioning of ASCs is expected to play a crucial role in regenerative medicine by optimizing the production of a highly effective secretome from ASCs.
Biological causal links on physiological and evolutionary time scales
Authors: Karmon Amit , Pilpel Yitzhak
Published: April 2016

Correlation does not imply causation. If two variables, say A and B, are correlated, it could be because A causes B, or that B causes A, or because a third factor affects them both. We suggest that in many cases in biology, the causal link might be bi-directional: A causes B through a fast-acting physiological process, while B causes A through a slowly accumulating evolutionary process. Furthermore, many trained biologists tend to consistently focus at first on the fast-acting direction, and overlook the slower process in the opposite direction. We analyse several examples from modern biology that demonstrate this bias (codon usage optimality and gene expression, gene duplication and genetic dispensability, stem cell division and cancer risk, and the microbiome and host metabolism) and also discuss an example from linguistics. These examples demonstrate mutual effects between the fast physiological processes and the slow evolutionary ones. We believe that building awareness of inference biases among biologists who tend to prefer one causal direction over another could improve scientific reasoning.
Thick (>20 µm) and high-resistivity carbon-doped GaN-buffer layers grown by metalorganic vapor phase epitaxy on n-type GaN substrates
Authors: Tsuchiya Tomonobu , Terano Akihisa , Mochizuki Kazuhiro
Published: April 2016

To improve the performance of GaN power devices, we have investigated the crystalline quality of thick (>20 µm) carbon-doped GaN layers on n-type GaN substrates and templates. The surface morphologies and X-ray rocking curves of carbon-doped GaN layers were improved by using GaN substrates. However, the crystalline quality degraded when the carbon concentration was too high (1 × 1020 cm−3), even in the case of GaN substrates. High breakdown voltages (approximately 7 kV under a lateral configuration) were obtained for the carbon-doped GaN layers on n-type GaN substrates when the carbon concentration was 5 × 1019 cm−3. These results indicate that lateral power devices with high breakdown voltage can be fabricated by using thick carbon-doped GaN buffer layers, even on n-type GaN substrates.
Theoretical investigation of nonthermal equilibrium exciton dynamics in GaN using hydrogen plasma model
Authors: Iwahori Tomohiro , Ma Bei , Morita Ken , Ishitani Yoshihiro
Published: April 2016

As a basis of the study on exciton stability under a nonthermal equilibrium state, the excitation and deexcitation population fluxes and population densities of several states of the principal quantum number p are calculated using a hydrogen plasma model for various electron excitation densities and temperatures of the lattice, electron, and exciton. It is found that the balance of the excitation and deexcitation population fluxes depends on the p number. At a lower-lattice-temperature region, ladderlike deexcitation flux is dominant for low p states, while the quasi-Saha–Boltzmann relation holds for high p states. At temperatures higher than 150 K, the exciton formation and dissociation fluxes become dominant. Exciton dissociation is enhanced at temperatures higher than approximately 120 K. This process is triggered by the excitation between the states of p = 1 and 2. High- and low-order states sometimes exhibit different population flow characteristics, which reveal the exciton dissociation dynamics.
Solar wind plasma entry observed by cluster in the high‐latitude magnetospheric lobes
Authors: Gou X. C. , Shi Q. Q. , Tian A. M. , Sun W. J. , Dunlop M. W. , Fu S. Y. , Zong Q. G. , Facskó G. , Nowada M. , Pu Z. Y. , Mailyan B. , Xiao T. , Shen X. C.
Published: April 2016

Using the Cluster data during the period from January to April between 2001 and 2006, we find an observation of solar wind entry due to magnetic reconnection occurred in the terrestrial high‐latitude magnetospheric lobes, tailward of the cusps under northward interplanetary magnetic field (IMF). Occurrence rate of solar wind entry events in this study is of the same order as that for the Cluster orbital interval from August to October between the years of 2002 and 2004 as reported by Shi et al. (2013). In this paper, we further study the role of the IMF Bx and By components in the control of solar wind plasma entry based on the investigations of different magnetic dipole tilt variations between our database and Shi et al. (2013). This study shows that the asymmetry distribution of solar wind entry events in the northern and southern lobes could be caused by the variation of magnetic dipole tilt, which could influence the locations of the reconnection site on the high‐latitude lobe magnetopause. On the other hand, IMF Bx can also affect the solar wind plasma entry rate, which is also consistent with previous results. Therefore, we conclude that the “north‐south asymmetry” of solar wind entry events in the lobes could be the combined result of magnetic dipole tilt and IMF Bx. In addition, the IMF By component can influence the entry events in conjunction with the variation of IMF Bx component, which is in line with the Parker Spiral of the IMF.