bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New Conservative Finite Volume Element Schemes for the Modified Regularized Long Wave Equation
Authors: Yan Jinliang , Lai Ming-Chih , Li Zhilin , Zhang Zhiyue
Published: January 2017

In this paper, we propose a new energy-preserving scheme and a new momentum-preserving scheme for the modified regularized long wave equation. The proposed schemes are designed by using the discrete variational derivative method and the finite volume element method. For comparison, we also propose a finite volume element scheme. The conservation properties of the proposed schemes are analyzed and we find that the energy-preserving scheme can precisely conserve the discrete total mass and total energy, the momentum-preserving scheme can precisely conserve the discrete total mass and total momentum, while the finite volume element scheme merely conserve the discrete total mass. We also analyze their linear stability property using the Von Neumann theory and find that the proposed schemes are unconditionally linear stable. Finally, we present some numerical examples to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed schemes.
LES of Normally Impinging Elliptic Air-Jet Heat Transfer at Re=4400
Authors: Li Yongping , Lin Qizhao , Zhu Zuojin
Published: January 2017

Jet impingement induced heat transfer is an important issue in engineering science. This paper presents results of large eddy simulation (LES) of normally impinging elliptic air-jet heat transfer at a Reynolds number of 4400, with orifice-to-plate distance fixed to be 5 in the unit of jet nozzle effective diameter. The elliptic aspect ratio (a/b) is 3/2. While the target wall is heated under some condition of constant heat flux. The LES are carried out using dynamic subgrid model and Open-FOAM. The distributions ofmean velocity components, velocity fluctuations, and subgrid stresses in vertical and radial directions, and the Nusselt numbers involving heat transfer through the target wall are discussed. The comparison with existing experimental and numerical results shows good agreement.
Nekaj odprtih vprašanj o poudarjanju antičnih imen
Authors: Gantar Kajetan
Published: January 2017

Pisec uvodoma opiše izkušnje ob nastajanju Pravil slovenskega pravopisa (1987), pri katerem je več let sodeloval in zavzemal odklonilno stališče npr. do svojilnih pridevnikov hibridnega tipa Horačev, Properčev (ali Leibničev itd). V nadaljevanju razčlenjuje dileme ob naglaševanju antičnih geografskih in lastnih imen, ki so presenetljivo podobne tistim, s katerimi so se srečevali že antični in poznejši gramatiki ob naglaševanju grških imen v latinščini. V slovenski tradiciji se je namreč tudi pri izvirno grških imenih udomačil večkrat latinski akcent, pri nekaterih pa se je po ovinku prek francoščine ali nemščine ugnezdil akcent, ki nima opore ne v grščini ne v latinščini. Pisec se zavzema za ohranitev ustaljenih akcentov pri pogosto rabljenih, že dolgo udomačenih antičnih imenih. Pri redkejših imenih pa naj bo strokovnjakom dana pravica, da lahko ohranjajo prvotni antični akcent, ne da bi bila taka praksa a priori izključena iz organizma žive slovenščine s slabšalno oznako „citatna“ oblika. Še zlasti pa se zavzema za pravico knjižnih prevajalcev, da v poetičnih prevodih prilagajajo akcent osebnih imen ritmiki in zakonitostim heksametra ali drugih antičnih metričnih obrazcev.
Slovensko pravopisje in prevzemanje grško-latinskih prvin: med izročilom, prestižem in uporabnikom
Authors: Dobrovoljc Helena
Published: January 2017

Prevzemanje imenskih prvin iz latinsko-grškega sveta je bilo v slovenski pravopisni tradiciji obravnavano ekskluzivistično, pospremljeno s pogosto nasprotujočimi si napotili splošnim jezikovnim uporabnikom, ki so izhajali iz različnih oblik socialnega razlikovanja v družbi, medtem ko je bil občnoimenski fond razmeroma hitro fonetično podomačen. Izjemo predstavljajo posamezni izrazi, ki so v jezikovni skupnosti obravnavani kot prestižni, tj. izobraženski, in jih ohranjamo v citatnih oblikah. Sodobni knjižnojezikovni standard je prav zaradi omenjenih dejavnikov na področju kodifikacije latinsko-grške leksike in imen neenoten. V prispevku bodo predstavljena dosedanja načela slovenjenja ob izbrani skupini besedja ter izkušnje, ki nas bodo spremljale v prihodnje.
Hildegarda iz Bingna: Scivias
Authors: Novak Doroteja
Published: January 2017

V zgodovini srečamo zgolj peščico žensk, ki bi tako močno zaznamovale svoj čas in okolje, v katerem so delovale, kot ju je sv. Hildegarda iz Bingna. Renska sibila, kot so jo poimenovali njeni kasnejši občudovalci, je s svojo bogato literarno zapuščino pomembno vplivala na razvoj teologije in mistike 12. stoletja. Tega so se zavedali že njeni sodobniki, ki so ji priznavali avtoriteto tako v cerkveni kot posvetni sferi. Vseeno pa se je kot ženska, ki je posegala na področja, tradicionalno rezervirana za moške, morala soočiti s številnimi preprekami in ovirami. Njeni vsestranski dosežki se lahko po obsegu in kvaliteti primerjajo z dosežki bolj znanih filozofov in učenjakov, ki so jim bile zgodovinske okoliščine morda bolj naklonjene. Njen holistični pristop, ki je viden v vseh njenih delih, z obilico inovativnosti povezuje teologijo, glasbo, medicino, naravoslovje in celo jezikoslovje, v katerih lahko zaznamo vplive antičnih in sodobnih virov, velikokrat pa so njena opažanja plod skrbnega opazovanja okolice, ki je med drugim močno vplivala na razvoj njene misli. Videnja, ki naj bi jih že od zgodnjega otroštva prejemala od Boga, so tako dobila končno podobo v pisni obliki prav v samostanskem okolju, najprej v Disibodenbergu in nato v Rupertsbergu, kjer so najprej nastala njena teološka dela, nato pa so jim sledila še ostala.
Sklanjanje starogrških in latinskih lastnih imen moškega spola po prvi sklanjatvi
Authors: Kocjan Barle Marta
Published: January 2017

Razprava razčlenjuje 170 starogrških in 81 latinskih imen iz elektronske izdaje Slovenskega pravopisa (eSP 2003) ter jih primerja in po potrebi delno dopolnjuje z oblikami in mestoma rodilnikom v Antičnih imenih po slovensko (AIS) B. Aubelj iz l. 1997. Osredotoča se na imenovalniške in rodilniške oblike, predvsem na imena na izvirne starogrške in latinske končnice in njim podobne končaje (končne dele besede) ter njihovo slovenjenje. Po sklopih so obravnavane starogrške končnice -as (in končaj -goras), -es (in končaj -kles), -is, -os, -us, tudi v kombinaciji s samoglasnikom (npr. -ias, -eus), -on in končaj -s, ter latinske -us (tudi -ius, -tius), -um (tudi npr. eum), -on in končaja -o in -s. Ob vsakem sklopu je poleg predloga za slovenjeno imenovalniško osnovo tudi rodilniška končnica, v sklepu pa povzetek predlogov, ki terjajo ponovno strokovno presojo, ter dve preglednici.
Size-selected black carbon mass distributions and mixing state in polluted and clean environments of northern India
Authors: Raatikainen Tomi , Brus David , Hooda Rakesh K. , Hyvärinen Antti-Pekka , Asmi Eija , Sharma Ved P. , Arola Antti , Lihavainen Heikki
Published: January 2017

Abstract. We have measured black carbon properties by using a size-selected single-particle soot photometer (SP2). The measurements were conducted in northern India at two sites: Gual Pahari is located at the Indo-Gangetic Plain (IGP) and Mukteshwar at the Himalayan foothills. Northern India is known as one of the absorbing aerosol hot spots, but detailed information about absorbing aerosol mixing state is still largely missing. Previous equivalent black carbon (eBC) mass concentration measurements are available for this region, and these are consistent with our observations showing that refractory black carbon (rBC) concentrations are about 10 times higher in Gual Pahari than those at Mukteshwar. Also, the number fraction of rBC-containing particles is higher in Gual Pahari, but individual rBC-containing particles and their size distributions are fairly similar. These findings indicate that particles at both sites have similar local and regional emission sources, but aerosols are also transported from the main source regions (IGP) to the less polluted regions (Himalayan foothills). Detailed examination of the rBC-containing particle properties revealed that they are most likely irregular particles such as fractal aggregates, but the exact structure remains unknown.
Explaining the convector effect in canopy turbulence by means of large-eddy simulation
Authors: Banerjee Tirtha , De Roo Frederik , Mauder Matthias
Published: January 2017

Abstract. Semi-arid forests are found to sustain a massive sensible heat flux in spite of having a low surface to air temperature difference by lowering the aerodynamic resistance to heat transfer (rH) – a property called canopy convector effect (CCE). In this work large-eddy simulations are used to demonstrate that CCE appears more generally in canopy turbulence. It is indeed a generic feature of canopy turbulence: rH of a canopy is found to reduce with increasing unstable stratification, which effectively increases the aerodynamic roughness for the same physical roughness of the canopy. This relation offers a sufficient condition to construct a general description of CCE. In addition, we review existing parameterizations for rH from the evapotranspiration literature and test to what extent they are able to capture the CCE, thereby exploring the possibility of an improved parameterization.
Practitioners' viewpoints on citizen science in water management: a case study in Dutch regional water resource management
Authors: Minkman Ellen , van der Sanden Maarten , Rutten Martine
Published: January 2017

Abstract. In recent years, governmental institutes have started to use citizen science as a form of public participation. The Dutch water authorities are among them. They face pressure on the water governance system and a water awareness gap among the general public, and consider citizen science a possible solution. The reasons for practitioners to engage in citizen science, and in particular those of government practitioners, have seldom been studied. This article aims to pinpoint the various viewpoints of practitioners at Dutch regional water authorities on citizen science. A Q-methodological approach was used because it allows for exploration of viewpoints and statistical analysis using a small sample size. Practitioners (33) at eight different water authorities ranked 46 statements from agree to disagree. Three viewpoints were identified with a total explained variance of 67 %. Viewpoint A considers citizen science a potential solution that can serve several purposes, thereby encouraging citizen participation in data collection and analysis. Viewpoint B considers citizen science a method for additional, illustrative data. Viewpoint C views citizen science primarily as a means of education. These viewpoints show water practitioners in the Netherlands are willing to embrace citizen science at water authorities, although there is no support for higher levels of citizen engagement.
Biopsy darting of common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in southern Brazil: evaluating effectiveness, short-term responses and wound healing
Authors: Fruet Pedro Friedrich , Dalla Rosa Luciano , Genoves Rodrigo C. , Valiati Victor H. , De Freitas Thales R.O. , Möller Luciana M.
Published: January 2017

Cetacean biopsy sampling is a widely used technique with undisputable scientific value. Although it is generally considered as a harmless technique with no apparent long-lasting effects, studies have recommended examining behavioral responses to evaluate potential impacts on individuals, groups and sampled populations. In this study, we evaluated individual behavioral reactions and wound-healing in common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) during a biopsy sampling program carried out in southern Brazil from 2003 to 2012, and compared sampling effectiveness between dedicated and opportunistic sampling surveys. Two hundred and fiftytwo biopsy attempts were made, resulting in 118 hits (48% of attempts) and 134 samples (52% of attempts) collected successfully. Responses to biopsy sampling were low-level, of short-term duration, and elicited similar reactions on the dolphins, irrespective of shot distance, sex of individuals, dolphins’ group size and pre-behavioral state. Dolphins subjected to multiple biopsy attempts reacted in a similar manner as in previous attempt(s), with no evidence of increasing the intensity of the reaction. Wounds could be monitored in 18 animals and healed over 18 to 35 days. Generally, wounds appeared to be covered by epidermis in about three weeks with no observed signs of skin infection. Our results agree with previous studies suggesting that biopsy sampling does not cause significant disturbance to the behavior of dolphins. At a local level, this study demonstrates that biopsy sampling of bottlenose dolphins in the Patos Lagoon Estuary is more effective, less costly and less intrusive when conducted opportunistically, but that long-term sampling is required to achieve a relatively good sample size from photoidentified individuals in the population.
Mark-recapture vs. line-transect abundance estimates of a coastal dolphin population: a case study of Tursiops truncatus from Laguna, southern Brazil
Authors: Daura-Jorge Fábio G. , Simões-Lopes Paulo César
Published: January 2017

Cetacean populations in coastal habitats are increasingly threatened by multiple anthropogenic impacts. Monitoring these populations to obtain robust estimates of abundance and detect trends over time is critical to achieve conservation goals. Here, we conducted a pilot study to evaluate the effectiveness of two commonly used abundance estimation methods: mark-recapture and distance sampling line-transect. Surveys were conducted to estimate the abundance of bottlenose dolphins in Laguna, southern Brazil. We implemented power-analysis models and compared both techniques in terms of cost, time and effectiveness to detect trends over a five-year period. Mark-recapture models were analyzed in MARK and resulted in an abundance of 50 individuals (CI = 39-64) with a coefficient of variation (CV) of 0.13. The line-transect models were implemented using the program DISTANCE and resulted in an estimate of 62 individuals (CI = 38-103), with a CV of 0.24. Comparing both approaches, mark-recapture resulted 1.30 time more expensive than line-transect for a single season of effort, but was twice as effective in terms of precision. As a consequence, the probability of detecting a 5% trend during a five-year period is 2.08 times higher with mark recapture. Conversely, the final cost to detect a trend with distance sampling is 1.19 time higher but considering six more years of effort. These results highlight the importance of selecting a-priori sampling design techniques that include developing pilot studies that evaluate the bias, precision and accuracy of estimates while considering costs involved. Considering the small population size estimated herein, the sensitivity of both approaches for detecting trends is not sufficient because the original population would be markedly reduced by the time a declining trend was detected. Thus, a precautionary approach is still imperative, even when robust estimates are obtained.
Update on the current occurrence of Tursiops truncatus (Montagu, 1821) in Rio de Janeiro State
Authors: Lodi Lilian
Published: January 2017

This note reviews and updates records of bottlenose dolphin in Rio de Janeiro State, combining unpublished data with previously published information to evaluate the current state of knowledge of the occurrence of this species in the state.
Effect of internal carotid artery occlusion on vertebral artery blood flow: a duplex ultrasonographic evaluation.
Authors: Nicolau C , Gilabert R , García A , Blasco J , Chamorro A , Brú C
Published: January 2017

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of unilateral internal carotid artery occlusion on blood flow volume and blood flow velocities in both vertebral arteries using duplex Doppler ultrasonography in the cervical segment. Forty patients with unilateral extracranial internal carotid artery occlusion confirmed by angiography were studied, and the results were compared with those obtained in 57 age‐matched patients in whom cervical duplex ultrasonography showed no abnormalities. We measured the diameter, flow velocities, and blood flow volume in both vertebral arteries, and the side‐to‐side differences were also calculated. Eleven patients (27.5%) with an occluded internal carotid artery had increased peak systolic velocity in the ipsilateral vertebral artery, and 6 (15%) had increased peak systolic velocity in the contralateral vertebral artery. The mean peak systolic velocity and the mean blood flow volume were statistically greater in the ipsilateral vertebral arteries than in the same‐side vertebral arteries of the control group (P < .05). We also detected a mean increase of 14.29% of the net blood flow volume in the vertebral arteries compared with the control group. Patients with extracranial unilateral internal carotid artery occlusion may have a compensatory increase in both the peak systolic velocity and the blood flow volume in both vertebral arteries.
Sonographic depiction of ovarian vascularity and flow: current improvements and future applications.
Authors: Fleischer A C , Brader K R
Published: January 2017

The objective of this image presentation is to update the reader with the current clinical applications and future developments concerning the sonographic depiction of ovarian vascularity and flow. This topic is discussed and illustrated using numerous figures that show actual images and their histologic correlation as well as illustrative drawings of central concepts. Color Doppler sonography is an accurate means to depict ovarian vascularity and flow. This information can be used to detect ovarian cancer and adnexal torsion. Future developments include the use of sonographic contrast agents and three‐dimensional imaging. This report describes the current state of the art regarding Color Doppler sonography of ovarian vascularity and flow. It also describes areas for future research and development.
Three‐dimensional ultrasonography and assessment of the first‐trimester fetus.
Authors: Hull A D , James G , Salerno C C , Nelson T , Pretorius D H
Published: January 2017

We used transvaginal three‐dimensional ultrasonography to assess the first‐trimester fetus and compared the findings with contemporaneous two‐dimensional ultrasonographic studies. Multiplanar three‐dimensional ultrasonography provided good visualization of fetal anatomy and allowed fetal measurement and assessment of nuchal translucency thickness. Three‐dimensional ultrasonography required significantly less time to perform and to interpret than two‐dimensional ultrasonography. Three‐dimensional ultrasonography is an effective means of assessing the first‐trimester fetus and offers potential advantages over two‐dimensional ultrasonography.
The transfrontal view: a new approach to the visualization of the fetal midline cerebral structures.
Authors: Visentin A , Pilu G , Falco P , Bovicelli L
Published: January 2017

The objective of this study was to assess the feasibility of using the frontal suture as an acoustic window to visualize sonographically the midline cerebral structures (transfrontal view) in midtrimester fetuses. The study design was prospective and observational. In 124 healthy fetuses and in 2 fetuses with agenesis of the corpus callosum at 19 to 24 weeks' gestation, an attempt was made to obtain a transfrontal view by using transabdominal sonography. The transfrontal view was successfully and rapidly obtained in 110 (89%) of the healthy fetuses; it always provided detailed visualization of the entire corpus callosum, cavum septi pellucidii, third ventricle, brain stem, fourth ventricle, vermis cerebelli, and cisterna magna. The anatomic information was comparable with that obtained from a median sagittal scan obtained through the anterior fontanelle. In both fetuses with agenesis of the corpus callosum, the transfrontal view provided clear evidence of the anomaly. The transfrontal view is feasible in midtrimester fetuses and allows rapid demonstration of the cerebral midline structures and the corpus callosum in particular. It may be helpful in the diagnosis or exclusion of cerebral anomalies, and at least in some cases, it may obviate the need for a transvaginal examination. The transfrontal view may also be used to standardize the scanning plane for the evaluation of the fetal facial profile.
Abdominal wall defects: two‐ versus three‐dimensional ultrasonographic diagnosis.
Authors: Bonilla-Musoles F , Machado L E , Bailão L A , Osborne N G , Raga F
Published: January 2017

We diagnosed 12 cases of abdominal wall defects. The cases diagnosed occurred in 6 fetuses with omphalocele, 3 with gastroschisis, 2 with prune‐belly syndrome, and 1 with pentalogy of Cantrell. Except for 1 case of gastroschisis first diagnosed on the basis of three‐dimensional ultrasonography at 14 weeks' gestation, all cases were first detected by two‐dimensional transabdominal ultrasonography and then reevaluated with three‐dimensional ultrasonography using multiplanar and orthogonal plane modes. Although the original diagnosis was accurate on the basis of two‐dimensional ultrasonography in 11 of 12 cases, additional information was obtained by three‐dimensional scanning in all cases. Our experience suggests that in cases in which abdominal wall defects are first detected by two‐dimensional ultrasonographic scanning, the additional information gained by complementary three‐dimensional ultrasonographic scanning can be useful for more‐efficient counseling and postnatal therapeutic planning.
Detection of liver metastases: comparison of contrast‐enhanced wide‐band harmonic imaging with conventional ultrasonography.
Authors: Bernatik T , Strobel D , Hahn E G , Becker D
Published: January 2017

To compare the detection rate of conventional ultrasonography and contrast‐enhanced wide‐band harmonic ultrasonographic imaging in the detection of small liver metastases.

Consecutive patients with histologically proved gastrointestinal carcinoma liver metastases were studied. Biphasic helical computed tomography, conventional ultrasonography, and contrast‐enhanced wide‐band harmonic imaging were performed on all patients within a 5‐day period. The biphasic helical computed tomographic scans were reviewed and interpreted by a skilled radiologist. The number of lesions and their descriptive characteristics were recorded for analysis. In addition, videotape recordings of the conventional ultrasonography and contrast‐enhanced wide‐band harmonic imaging were blindly reviewed, after which the number of detected lesions and their characteristics were then compared with those detected on biphasic helical computed tomography, considered the standard of reference.

Twenty‐eight patients (10 female and 18 male; age range, 45‐72 years) were studied. Conventional ultrasonography detected 37 (59%) of all lesions visualized by biphasic helical computed tomography. The detection rate for contrast‐enhanced wide‐band harmonic imaging was significantly higher (61 [97%] of 63). In our series, two 10‐mm lesions near the diaphragm were not visualized by wide‐band harmonic imaging.

The use of contrast‐enhanced imaging techniques significantly improves the ultrasonographic detection of liver metastases. Our results achieved the sensitivity of biphasic helical computed tomography.
Renal Doppler ultrasonographic findings in earthquake victims with crush injury.
Authors: Keven K , Ates K , Yağmurlu B , Nergizoğlu G , Kutlay S , Aras S , Ozcan H , Duman N
Published: January 2017

In the Marmara earthquake, which occurred on August 17, 1999, 639 people had renal complications, and 477 needed hemodialysis treatment because of acute renal failure due to crush injury. Our objective was to use Doppler ultrasonography as a noninvasive procedure to provide renal hemodynamic information.

We evaluated 9 patients with severe crush injury by using Doppler ultrasonography to measure renal resistive indexes within 16 to 32 hours after the earthquake and 6 weeks later. All patients had acute renal failure and underwent hemodialysis.

All measured initial resistive indexes were high (mean +/‐ SD, 0.83 +/‐ 0.08), and they were correlated with the number of hemodialysis sessions (r = 0.703; P = .034), the duration of hemodialysis treatment (r = 0.819; P = .007), and oligoanuria (r = 0.937; P < .0001). All patients recovered from the acute renal failure, and repeated Doppler ultrasonography showed significant decreases in resistive indexes (0.59 +/‐ 0.07; P < .01) and renal lengths (P < .05).

In crush injury, measurement of renal resistive indexes can be useful for the prognosis of recovery from acute renal failure.
Imaging of the ductus venosus in neonates: from patency to closure.
Authors: Vade A , Lim-Dunham J , Iqbal N
Published: January 2017

To familiarize the radiologist with the variable sonographic appearance of the involuting ductus venosus in neonates.

Five sick neonates ranging in age from 24 to 42 weeks had abdominal sonographic examinations to check for intra‐abdominal diseases.

Doppler sonography showed a patent ductus venosus in 3 neonates and a ductus venosus with thrombosis in 2 neonates. The ductus venosus was identified in the liver between the left portal vein and the inferior vena cava. In 2 patients, follow‐up sonography showed that the ductus venosus progressively had thrombosis and then disappeared.

The ductus venosus in a neonate has a variable sonographic appearance depending on its stage of involution. Its detection in a sick neonate can lead to inadvertent diagnosis of a hepatic varix, an abscess, or a tumor.
A case of chondrodysplasia punctata with features of osteogenesis imperfecta type II.
Authors: Sidden C R , Filly R A , Norton M E , Kostiner D R
Published: January 2017

The osteogenesis imperfecta syndromes constitute a group of heterogeneous, heritable skeletal dysplasias. Of the 4 types, type II is the most severe, with an incidence of 1 per 55,000. It is characterized by malformed bones secondary to abnormal collagen type I synthesis. Affected fetuses are divided into 3 groups: A, B, and C. All groups have long bones described as "wrinkled" or "crumpled" secondary to repeated fractures. Many bones also show evidence of demineralization, which is especially evident in the bones of the face and calvaria. In groups A and C, the chest is generally small, with thickened and shortened ribs, and each rib has characteristic "beading" patterns secondary to repeated fracturing. Sonography has traditionally been successful in the diagnosis of osteogenesis imperfecta at an early gestational age. Chondrodysplasia punctata describes a heterogeneous group of skeletal disorders characterized by abnormal mineralization of bones during gestation. There are many different causes of it, but some of the specific subtypes include rhizomelic, X‐linked dominant (also known as Conradi‐Hünermann syndrome), X‐linked recessive, and tibia‐metacarpal. We report a case of severe X‐linked dominant chondrodysplasia punctata, which sonographically had common features with osteogenesis imperfecta type II.
Sonographic evaluation of anatomic results after the pubovaginal sling procedure for stress urinary incontinence.
Authors: Kuo H C
Published: January 2017

To investigate the anatomic changes after the pubovaginal sling procedure in women with stress urinary incontinence by transrectal sonography

This study enrolled 56 women with varying types of stress urinary incontinence who were treated with the pubovaginal sling procedure using self‐fashioned polypropylene mesh. The suburethral sling was fixed without tension and was placed at the position between the bladder neck and the proximal urethra. The patients were investigated preoperatively and postoperatively by transrectal sonography of the bladder and urethra.

At a median follow‐up of 24 months (range, 6‐39 months), 48 patients (85.7%) were cured, 6 (10.7%) had improved, and 2 (3.6%) had treatment failures. Transrectal sonography revealed a well‐suspended bladder neck and proximal urethra in all patients who were cured. As measured by changes of the axis of the pubovesical ligament, the position of the bladder neck was elevated by a mean of 29.6 +/‐ 21.5 degrees in the resting condition and 47.4 +/‐ 27.7 degrees in the straining condition. An incompetent bladder neck and proximal urethra were noted in 8 patients who had stress urinary incontinence after surgery. The incidence of opening of the bladder neck was 84.6% in 13 patients with de novo urgency or urge incontinence, whereas only 2 (4.7%) of 43 patients who did not have postoperative urgency had opening of the neck (P = .000).

Transrectal sonography provides useful information about anatomic changes after the pubovaginal sling procedure. Bladder neck incompetence after surgery was closely related to postoperative urgency or urge incontinence.
Preoperative evaluation of pelvic tumors by Doppler and three‐dimensional sonography.
Authors: Kurjak A , Kupesic S , Sparac V , Bekavac I
Published: January 2017

To study a spectrum of systems (two‐dimensional transvaginal, transvaginal color Doppler, three‐dimensional, three‐dimensional power Doppler, and contrast‐enhanced three‐dimensional power Doppler sonography) for preoperative evaluation of pelvic tumors.

Two hundred ninety‐two patients were evaluated by the 5 complementary methods in preoperative sonographic assessments. We examined adnexal and endometrial morphology, thickness, and volume by two‐ and three‐dimensional sonography and analyzed blood flow by transvaginal color, pulsed Doppler, and three‐dimensional power Doppler sonography in all examined patients. In 89 patients with complex adnexal lesions of uncertain malignancy, contrast‐enhanced three‐dimensional power Doppler sonography was performed.

Morphologic assessment by three‐dimensional sonography yielded additional information in 58% of cases compared with two‐dimensional sonography. Furthermore, this modality was superior to two‐dimensional sonography in accurate depiction and diagnosis of 2 cases of fallopian tube carcinoma. Combined morphology and vascular indexing reached sensitivity of 97% and specificity of 99%. Endometrial volume in patients with malignant disease was significantly different (28.2 +/‐ 0.02 cm3) from that in those who had hyperplasia (7.81 +/‐ 0.03 cm3), polyps (3.5 +/‐ 0.02 cm3), or normal endometria (0.8 +/‐ 0.02 cm3). With combined morphologic and three‐dimensional power Doppler examination of endometrial lesions, sensitivity and specificity reached 89% and 97%, respectively.

Combined morphologic and vascular imaging improves preoperative assessment of gynecologic tumors.
Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Choi Byung Ihn , Kim Ah Young , Lee Jae Young , Kim Kyoung Won , Lee Kyoung Ho , Kim Tae Kyoung , Han Joon Koo
Published: January 2017

Objective. To present the sonographic appearance of hepatocellular carcinoma imaged with the intravenous contrast agent Levovist. Methods. We reviewed our experience using Levovist (Schering AG, Berlin, Germany) for the sonographic diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma. Results. Contrast‐enhanced sonography with Levovist facilitated detailed evaluation of tumor vascularity in hepatocellular carcinoma. Conclusions. Contrast‐enhanced sonography with Levovist enhances the role of sonography in the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma. It provides detailed information about tumor vascularity and the contrast enhancement pattern.
Contrast‐Enhanced Doppler Perfusion Index
Authors: Ramnarine Kumar V. , Leen Edward , Oppo Karren , Angerson Wilson J. , McArdle Colin S.
Published: January 2017

Objective. To assess the potential of the power Doppler signal intensity rate of enhancement due to contrast agent wash‐in for assessment of hepatic hemodynamics. Methods. With the use of standardized settings, power Doppler sonography was performed before and after administration of a contrast agent. Video‐recorded examinations were digitized for offline analysis on a personal computer. The temporal changes of the power Doppler signal intensity were quantified to provide contrast agent wash‐in curves. The contrast‐enhanced Doppler perfusion index was defined by the ratio of the wash‐in gradient of the hepatic artery and portal vein as contrast‐enhanced Doppler perfusion index = hepatic artery gradient/(hepatic artery gradient + portal vein gradient). The contrast‐enhanced Doppler perfusion index was evaluated at 4 contrast agent doses in each of 14 patients with liver metastases and 3 patients with hemangiomas. An in vitro flow model was used to determine the relationships between the power Doppler rate of enhancement and flow in vessels of 4, 8, and 12 mm in diameter. Results. In vivo, there was a significantly higher (P < .0001) mean contrast enhanced Doppler perfusion index in patients with liver metastases (mean, 0.59; 95% confidence interval, 0.54–0.63), compared with patients with hemangiomas (mean, 0.33; 95% confidence interval, 0.24–0.41). The corresponding coefficients of variations were 25% for patients with liver metastases and 31% for patients with hemangiomas. In vitro, the power Doppler rate of enhancement was proportional to flow speed and independent of vessel diameter. Conclusions. Measurement of the contrast‐enhanced Doppler perfusion index may have potential in assessment of hepatic hemodynamics and focal liver disease.
The Human Fetal Venous System
Authors: Fasouliotis Sozos J. , Achiron Reuven , Kivilevitch Zvi , Yagel Simcha
Published: January 2017

Objective. The introduction of high‐resolution ultrasonography combined with color‐coded Doppler imaging offered a breakthrough in the evaluation of the human fetal venous system, considerably enhancing our understanding of fetal venous circulation in normal physiologic conditions, as well as providing us the ability to study circulatory changes in abnormal circumstances. The purpose of this study was to describe the normal anatomic development and complex of anomalies of the human fetal venous system and to review recently published series of these anomalies. Methods. Normal embryologic and anatomic development is described. An English language literature search of recent MEDLINE listings was performed to glean data from recently published series reporting prenatal diagnosis of the various anomalies and their associated malformations. Results. Anomalies of the human fetal venous system occur sporadically, often associated with cardiac or other malformations. The pathophysiologic mechanisms leading to abnormal in utero development of the human venous system remain largely undetermined. On the basis of the type of vein involved, embryologic precursor, and etiologic correlation (primary or secondary), classification into 4 major groups is described. Conclusions. Prenatal evaluation of fetuses found to have anomalies of the venous system should include a careful search for cardiac anomalies, including pulmonary venous drainage, and a detailed anatomic survey of the umbilical, portal, hepatic, and ductal systems to determine aberrant communication and, if possible, to discover clues to systemic diseases or thromboembolic phenomena.
Value of a Complete Sonographic Survey in Detecting Fetal Abnormalities
Authors: Yeo Lami , Guzman Edwin R. , Shen-Schwarz Susan , Walters Christine , Vintzileos Anthony M.
Published: January 2017

Objective. To determine the sensitivity of using a complete anatomic sonographic survey in detecting fetal abnormalities via correlation with perinatal autopsy results. Methods. All perinatal autopsies (1994–2001) with positive findings for at least 1 fetal abnormality and performed by a single perinatal pathologist at our institution were retrospectively reviewed. From these cases, singleton fetuses who received prenatal sonography solely in our unit were identified. The sensitivity of sonography in detecting anomalous fetuses as well as fetal abnormalities and abnormalities by organ system was determined. Abnormalities were classified as major or minor. In addition, findings from sonography and autopsy were compared, and their correlation was assigned to 1 of 3 categories. Results. Of 88 fetuses identified, 85 had 1 or more abnormal structural sonographic findings (sensitivity for fetuses with anomalies, 97%). A total of 372 separate abnormalities were found on autopsy; of the 299 major and 73 minor abnormalities, prenatal sonography showed 224 (75%) and 13 (18%), respectively. There was either complete agreement or only minor differences between sonographic and autopsy findings in 57 (65%) of 88. The sensitivity of sonography in identifying abnormalities was greater than 70% in these systems: central nervous system, cardiac system, urinary system, extremities, genitalia, ribs, and hydrops. Conclusions. In experienced hands, sonography has 97% sensitivity in detecting anomalous fetuses when compared with perinatal autopsy results. Although the sensitivity of sonography in detecting major fetal abnormalities is 75%, the sensitivity for minor abnormalities is poor, even when using a complete anatomic sonographic survey. Although it has limitations, this type of survey is invaluable for both patients and physicians in diagnosing fetal abnormalities.
Improved Sonographic Visualization of the Appendix With a Saline Enema in Children With Suspected Appendicitis
Authors: Han Tae Il
Published: January 2017

Objective. To determine whether abdominal sonography after a saline enema can identify the appendix that is not visualized at graded compression sonography in children with suspected appendicitis. Methods. High‐frequency compression sonography was prospectively performed in 120 consecutive children with suspected appendicitis; the appendix was not identified in 27 of these patients. Among the 27 patients with a nonvisualized appendix, abdominal sonography after a saline enema was performed in 12 to identify the appendix. Results. Abdominal sonography after the saline enema revealed the appendix in all 12 children in whom the appendix was not visualized at graded compression sonography. A normal appendix was found in 11 children, and acute appendicitis confined to the appendiceal tip was found in 1. The appendix was located in the pelvis (n = 5), posterior to the cecum (n = 4), posterior to the ileum (n = 2), and anterior to the ileum (n = 1). The appendix could be identified by using a window of the saline‐filled sigmoid colon (n = 5), saline‐filled cecum (n = 4), and saline‐filled terminal ileum (n = 2). Conclusions. Abdominal sonography after a saline enema is a helpful technique for depiction of the appendix that is not visible at graded compression sonography in children with suspected appendicitis.
Sonographic Morphology of Infiltrating Breast Carcinoma
Authors: Vignal Philippe , Meslet Marie Reine , Roméo Jean Michel , Feuilhade Franck
Published: January 2017

Objective. To compare the shape of the sonographic image of invasive breast cancer with the shape of the corresponding histopathologic section stained for components of the extracellular matrix, hyaluronan, and collagen. Methods. We studied 22 cases of breast carcinoma. Among them, 13 were visible on both sonography and mammography, whereas 9 were visible only on sonography. We compared the sonographic images with the histologic sections of the same carcinomas after staining with alcian blue for hyaluronan and Masson trichrome for collagen. Results. We have shown that the shape of the sonographic image of breast cancer is similar to the shape of its hyaluronan extracellular matrix. Conclusions. This finding explains why breast sonography is so sensitive for detection of invasive carcinoma and why some invasive cancers are not visible on mammography.
An 8‐Center Study to Evaluate the Utility of Midterm Genetic Sonograms Among High‐Risk Pregnancies
Authors: Hobbins John C. , Lezotte Dennis C. , Persutte Wayne H. , DeVore Greggory R. , Benacerraf Beryl R. , Nyberg David A. , Vintzileos Anthony M. , Platt Lawrence D. , Carlson Dru E. , Bahado-Singh Raymond O. , Abuhamad Alfred Z.
Published: January 2017

Objective. A multicenter study was undertaken to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of a genetic sonogram. Methods. Eight centers provided data on 176 pregnancies complicated by fetal Down syndrome. One hundred thirty‐four pregnancies were considered high risk because of advanced maternal age (>35 years), and 42 were considered high risk for having “abnormal” triple‐screen results (risk >1:250). Each center provided fetal biometric data, information regarding the presence or absence of major structural abnormalities, and between 3 and 6 additional ultrasonographic markers for trisomy 21. The heterogeneity of our 8 independent “sensitivity estimates” was evaluated by Poisson regression, and a single combined estimate of the sensitivity was calculated. Results. Of the total 176 cases of trisomy 21, 125 fetuses (71.0%) had either an abnormal long bone length (femur length, humerus length, or both), a major structural abnormality, or a Down syndrome marker. The combined diagnostic sensitivity was 71.6%, with a range of 63.6% (7 of 11) to 80% (8 of 10). Five centers had sensitivity estimates falling between 64% and 76%. The sensitivity of individual markers varied between 3% (sandal gap) and 46.5% (nuchal skin fold thickness). A condensed regimen of nuchal skin fold thickness, femur length, and a standard anatomic survey would screen in 56.8% of fetuses with Down syndrome. Conclusions. This 8‐center study that included many fetuses with Down syndrome validates the concept that the genetic sonogram can be used to better adjust the Down syndrome risk for high‐risk patients.
Three‐dimensional Power Doppler Imaging in Depicting Vascularity in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Xu Hui-Xiong , Liu Li , Lu Ming-De , Li He-Ping , Liu Guang-Jian , Li Jia-Ping
Published: January 2017

Objective. To assess the ability of three‐dimensional power Doppler imaging to depict vascularity in hepatocellular carcinoma. Methods. Forty‐three patients with hepatocellular carcinomas were subjected to two‐ and three‐dimensional power Doppler imaging, and 14 of them also underwent angiography. The delineated amounts of intratumoral Doppler signals were compared between 2 methods of power Doppler imaging in 43 patients. In the 14 patients who also underwent angiography, the patterns of blood supply depicted by 2 methods of power Doppler imaging were compared with that depicted by angiography, and the intratumoral vascularity on three‐dimensional projection images and angiograms was also quantitatively assessed by calculating the vascularity‐area ratio with graphics software. Results. In comparison with two‐dimensional power Doppler imaging, three‐dimensional power Doppler imaging was subjectively determined as showing more intratumoral Doppler signals in 32 (74.4%) of the 43 lesions. The accuracies in depicting vascular patterns were 64.3% (9 of 14) for three‐dimensional projection images and 14.3% (2 of 14) for two‐dimensional slices compared with the results of angiography. The vascularity‐area ratios on three‐dimensional power Doppler imaging projections and angiograms were 46.0% ± 25.6% and 48.5% ± 22.5% (mean ± SD), respectively (P > .05). Three‐dimensional projection images correlated significantly with angiograms in quantifying the vascularity (γ = 0.87; P < .001). Conclusions. A three‐dimensional power Doppler projection image gives a better overall picture of vascular distribution than a two‐dimensional slice and correlates with angiography significantly for delineating vascularity in hepatocellular carcinoma.
Ectopic Pregnancy Versus Corpus Luteum Cyst Revisited
Authors: Atri Mostafa
Published: January 2017

Objective. To determine the best Doppler values for differentiating ectopic pregnancy from a corpus luteum cyst of pregnancy. Methods. This was a prospective study of 80 consecutive patients with the diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy. All ectopic pregnancies were diagnosed on the basis of the presence of an extra‐ovarian adnexal mass on sonography and were confirmed surgically. The last menstrual period ranged from 4 to 11 weeks (mean, 6.3 weeks), and the maximal ectopic pregnancy diameter ranged from 0.7 to 5.5 cm (mean, 2.5 cm). Seventy‐six ectopic pregnancies showed color vascularity, and 40 showed corpus luteum cysts with vascular walls. The highest peak systolic velocity and the lowest resistive index of the vascular ectopic pregnancies were compared with the corresponding values in the vascular corpus luteum cysts. Results. The mean peak systolic velocity of the ectopic pregnancies was 35.4 cm/s compared with 28.4 cm/s in corpus luteum cysts, with no significant statistical difference (P = .1). The resistive index of the ectopic pregnancies ranged from 0.15 to 1.6 (mean ± SD, 0.61 ± 0.24) compared with 0.39 to 0.7 (mean, 0.52 ± 0.10) in corpus luteum cysts, with a significant statistical difference (P = .003). In this cohort, a resistive index of less than 0.39 had a specificity of 100% and a positive predictive value of 100% for diagnosing ectopic pregnancy but was present in only 15% (confidence interval, 7%–23%) of ectopic pregnancies. A resistive index of greater than 0.7 had a specificity of 100% and a positive predictive value of 100% for diagnosing ectopic pregnancy and was present in 31% (confidence interval, 21%–41%) of ectopic pregnancies. Conclusions. Both low and high resistive indices discriminate ectopic pregnancy from a corpus luteum cyst.
Transthoracic Sonography of the Lung and Pleura in View of a Suspected Pulmonary Embolism
Authors: Mohn Katia , Quiot Jean-Jacques , Nonent Michel , Lacut Karine , Le Gall Grégoire , Couturaud Francis , Leroyer Christophe
Published: January 2017

Objective. To evaluate the diagnostic performance of transthoracic sonography of the lung in view of an acute suspicion of pulmonary embolism. Methods. The diagnosis of pulmonary embolism was made within 48 hours of admission with the use of a validated strategy that combined a lung scan, lower limb sonography, helical computed tomography, and pulmonary angiography in 74 consecutive patients. All patients had a 3‐month follow‐up. Transthoracic sonography of the lung and pleura was performed in a blinded fashion by investigators unaware of the diagnostic process. It was interpreted as suggestive or not suggestive of pulmonary embolism on the basis of previously published descriptions. The results were kept apart from the patient files until the end of the study. Results. Pulmonary embolism was confirmed in 31 (42%) of the 74 patients. None of the patients classified as pulmonary embolism–negative had a thromboembolic event during the 3‐month follow‐up. The diagnostic performance of transthoracic sonography was as follows: sensitivity, 71% (95% confidence interval, 52%–85%); specificity, 77% (95% confidence interval, 61%–88%); positive predictive value, 69% (95% confidence interval, 50%–83%); and negative predictive value, 79% (95% confidence interval, 63%–89%). The finding of an isolated pleural infarction was significantly more frequent in pulmonary embolism–positive patients compared with pulmonary embolism–negative patients (P = .0001). Conclusions. The results from this study suggest that transthoracic sonography of the lung does not fulfill satisfactory performance criteria in view of a clinical suspicion of pulmonary embolism.