bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The spatial dynamics of Jesus as King of Israel in the Gospel according to John
Authors: Van der Watt Jan
Published: October 2016

The presence of the kingdom of God is usually associated with the theology of the Synoptic Gospels, but this article describes how the concept of kingdom also plays an important role in the Gospel of John, as Busse also argues. It is argued that the Johannine group identify themselves as children of the King and regard themselves as members of the kingdom, of which Jesus, the Messiah, is the major representative on Earth. What is expected of a king in ancient Hellenistic times is true of Jesus. He has power, gives and interprets commandments, judges, saves and protects. Although these events are historically set in a politically tense situation between the Jews and Romans, Jesus’ kingship is from above, revealing God’s narrative of salvation and eternal life in the world below. In this way God’s transcendental narrative of love, life, truth and light serves as a heuristic tool to understand and interpret events in the world below.
Being transdisciplinary theologians in and beyond apocalyptic environments
Authors: Loubser Gys M.
Published: October 2016

This article offers a description of transdisciplinary facilitation that is suitable for theologians and ministers. The reflective aspect of transdisciplinary facilitation is illustrated through an engagement with transdisciplinary research on environmentalism and ecotheology. This article also suggests that Ernst Conradie could be appreciated, drawn on and critiqued as a transdisciplinary theologian and not a contextual theologian.
Vitamin D status, hypertension and body mass index in an urban black community in Mangaung, South Africa
Authors: Lategan Ronette , Van den Berg Violet L. , Ilich Jasminka Z. , Walsh Corinna M.
Published: October 2016

Background: A strong relationship exists between hypertension and body weight. Research has linked both higher blood pressure and body weight with lower vitamin D status.Objective: This study assessed the vitamin D status of a low-income, urban, black community in South Africa, to examine whether serum levels of 25-hydroxy vitamin D [25(OH)D] are associated with hypertension and body mass index (BMI).Methods: Data collected from 339 adults (25–64 years) from the Assuring Health for All in the Free State (AHA-FS) study were analysed. Variables measured include serum 25(OH)D, blood pressure, weight and height to determine BMI, and HIV status.Results: Mean 25(OH)D level was 38.4 ± 11.2 ng/mL for the group; 43.5 ± 11.8 ng/mL and 37.0 ± 10.6 ng/mL for males and females, respectively. Approximately 40% of the participants were HIV-positive and 63.4% hypertensive. Based on BMI, 11.8% were underweight, 33.0% normal weight, 23.0% overweight and 32.1% obese. HIV status showed no correlation with 25(OH)D levels when controlling for BMI. Poor inverse relationships were found between BMI and 25(OH)D (p = 0.01), and between mean arterial blood pressure and 25(OH)D (p = 0.05). When controlling for BMI, no correlation was found between 25(OH)D and the prevalence of hypertension or mean arterial blood pressure.Conclusion: Approximately 96% of participants had an adequate vitamin D status, which could be attributed to latitude, sunny conditions and expected high levels of sun exposure because of living conditions. Results confirmed a poor inverse relationship between vitamin D status and hypertension, which seems to be dependent on BMI.
Investigating the treatment of missing data in an Olympiad-type test – the case of the selection validity in the South African Mathematics Olympiad
Authors: Long Caroline , Engelbrecht Johann , Scherman Vanessa , Dunne Tim
Published: October 2016

The purpose of the South African Mathematics Olympiad is to generate interest in mathematics and to identify the most talented mathematical minds. Our focus is on how the handling of missing data affects the selection of the ‘best’ contestants. Two approaches handling missing data, applying the Rasch model, are described. The issue of guessing is investigated through a tailored analysis. We present two microanalyses to illustate how missing data may impact selection; the first investigates groups of contestants that may miss selection under particular conditions; the second focuses on two contestants each of whom answer 14 items correctly. This comparison raises questions about the proportion of correct to incorrect answers. Recommendations are made for future scoring of the test, which include reconsideration of negative marking and weighting as well as considering the inclusion of 150 or 200 contestants as opposed to 100 contestants for participation in the final round.
Kinesio Taping® of the metacarpophalangeal joints and its effect on pain and hand function in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Roberts Sarah , Ramklass Serela , Joubert Robin
Published: October 2016

Background: In persons suffering from rheumatoid arthritis (RA), the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints are commonly affected, resulting in inflammation, pain, joint instability, diminished grip strength and difficulties with function. However, the effectiveness of Kinesio Taping® of the MCP joints in alleviating the symptoms has not been established.Aim: To determine the effectiveness of bilateral Kinesio Taping® of the MCP joints on pain, range of motion, grip strength and hand function in elderly individuals previously diagnosed with RA.Methods: A repeated measure, experimental design was used over a 7-week period with the Kinesio Taping group (n = 30) receiving bilateral space correction Kinesio Taping® of the MCP joints with a joint protection (JP) group (n = 31) participating in JP workshops. The Kinesio Tape® was worn for 3 days a week with four applications during the data collection process. For the control group, 2-hour JP educational–behavioural workshops were run weekly for 4 weeks. Weekly assessments were completed for grip strength, ulnar deviation and pain (VAS), and two pre-intervention assessments and one post-intervention assessment was completed for the Michigan Hands Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ).Results: Kinesio Taping® of the MCP joints showed a significant decrease in pain (p = 0.001) and improved range of motion (p = 0.001 bilaterally). JP was found to have a significant improvement in grip strength (p = 0.001 bilaterally) and in the work (p = 0.01) and activities of daily living (ADL) (p = 0.01) sections of the MHQ. No significant difference was found between groups after intervention in the majority of outcomes (p = 0.24) except for grip strength where a significant difference was found.Conclusion: Kinesio Taping® of the MCP joints is an effective conservative intervention to improve pain and MCP ulnar deviation in individuals with RA.Significance of the work: Kinesio Taping® of the MCP joints of individuals with RA showed a significant decrease in pain (p = 0.00) and improved range of motion (p = 0.001 bilaterally). JP was found to significantly improve grip strength (p = 0.001 bilaterally) and in the work (p = 0.01) and ADL (p = 0.01) sections of the MHQ. No significant difference was found between groups after intervention in the majority of outcomes (p = 0.24) except for grip strength where a significant difference was found (p = 0.001).
Characterizations of Besov-Type and Triebel–Lizorkin–Type Spaces via Averages on Balls
Authors: Zhuo Ciqiang , Sickel Winfried , Yang Dachun , Yuan Wen
Published: October 2016

Let ℓ ∊ ℕ and α > (§, 2ℓ). In this article, the authors establish equivalent characterizations of Besov-type spaces, Triebel–Lizorkin-type spaces, and Besov–Morrey spaces via the sequence {ƒ-Bl,2-kƒ}k consisting of the diòerence between f and the ball average Bl,2-kƒ. These results lead to the introduction of Besov-type spaces, Triebel–Lizorkin-type spaces, and Besov–Morrey spaceswith any positive smoothness order onmetricmeasure spaces. As special cases, the authors obtain a new characterization ofMorrey–Sobolev spaces and Qα spaces with ∈ > (0, 1), which are of independent interest.
Anesthesia for Middle Ear Surgeries and Cochlear Implant
Authors: Kosare Suchita
Published: October 2016

The attending anesthesiologist face several challenges in safe conduction of anesthesia for middle ear and cochlear implantation surgeries. Preoperative challenges includes counseling elderly patients with impaired hearing and counseling the parents of children with congenital ear anomalies, thorough evaluation of these patient with several comorbidities. Intraoperative challenges are to provide bloodless field, head positioning, effect of nitrous oxide on middle ear, facial nerve monitoring and avoid electrical disturbances due to electrocautery during stimulation of the cochlear implant electrode assembly. Postoperative challenges includes smooth and calm recovery, prevention and treatment of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) and excellent analgesia. A close understanding and cooperation between the anesthesiologist and surgeon is the key for a positive outcome.

How to cite this article

Madan HK, Kosare S. Anesthesia for Middle Ear Surgeries and Cochlear Implant. Int J Otorhinolaryngol Clin 2015;7(1):1-9.
Anticipated Difficult Airway in Ear, Nose and Throat Procedures
Authors: Baldwa Namita Mahesh
Published: October 2016

Contrary to general and obstetric populations, where difficult airway is widely studied and well documented, it requires further research in elective and emergency ear, nose and throat (ENT) surgeries. American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) has published practice guidelines for the management of difficult airway, which help us deal with it perioperatively. All patients posted for ENT surgeries with difficult airway should be evaluated preoperatively and the strategy for management of difficult intubation as well as extubation chalked out. In the event, that the primary approach fails, the secondary plan should always be clear preoperatively, to reduce morbidity and mortality.

How to cite this article

Baldwa NM. Anticipated Difficult Airway in Ear, Nose and Throat Procedures. Int J Otorhinolaryngol Clin 2015;7(1):10-16.
Anesthetic Considerations in Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
Authors: Ubale Pravin Virappa
Published: October 2016

Functional endoscopic sinus surgery is among the most challenging of ENT procedures for a variety of reasons including the need for immobility, hemostasis, and, especially, gentle emergence from anesthesia. Anesthesiologists have contributed significantly, using different anesthetic techniques to control intraoperative hemorrhage, thus significantly improving visualization of the surgical field.

How to cite this article

Ubale PV. Anesthetic Considerations in Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery. Int J Otorhinolaryngol Clin 2015;7(1):22-27.
Ear, Nose and Throat Emergencies and Anesthesia
Authors: Bawankar Tushar
Published: October 2016

Ear, nose and throat (ENT) emergency procedures demand significant anesthetic challenges. Variety of emergency conditions like deep neck space infections (Ludwig's angina, retropharyngeal, parapharyngeal abscess), acute onset of stridor, epiglottitis, laryngotracheobronchitis, inhaled foreign bodies, facial injuries, etc. are a challenge to both the surgeon and the anesthesiologist and communication and cooperation is vital. Priority in emergency is to clear and secure the airway and consider requirement of ‘shared airway’. Preferred anesthesia and airway technique include awake flexible fiberoptic (FOB) guided intubation in cooperative patients’ and an inhalational induction in uncooperative patient or tracheostomy. Anticipation, vigilance, readiness for difficult intubation, emergency tracheostomy and team work is essential while managing ENT emergency procedures.

How to cite this article

Harde M, Bawankar T, Bhadade R. Ear, Nose and Throat Emergencies and Anesthesia. Int J Otorhinolaryngol Clin 2015;7(1):28-34.
Chronic Pain Management in ENT Disorders
Authors: Sahu Anjana
Published: October 2016

Chronic pain of otorhinolaryngology is considered to be the most disturbing and annoying condition. Suffering from chronic pain renders patient to loose his interest and ability to do the work. It may be responsible for many days lost from workplace, which affect directly or indirectly his quality of life. Patient may suffer from emotional and mental disturbances along with physical pain. Trigeminal neuralgia, cluster headache, otalgia, sphenopalatine and glossopharyngeal neuralgia and cancer pain are the some examples of chronic pain related to otorhinolaryngology. Multidisciplinary approach to treat the chronic pain helps the patients to get rid of their suffering and maintain their normal lifestyle.

How to cite this article

Sahu A. Chronic Pain Management in ENT Disorders. Int J Otorhinolaryngol Clin 2015;7(1):35-39.
Cities and Wetlands
Authors: Giblett Rod
Published: October 2016

From New Orleans to New York, from London to Paris to Venice, many of the world’s great cities were built on wetlands and swamps. Cities and Wetlands is the first book to explore the literary and cultural histories of these cities and their relationships to their environments and buried histories. Developing a ground-breaking new mode of psychoanalytic ecology and surveying a wide range of major cities in North America and Europe, ecocritic and activist Rod Giblett shows how the wetland origins of these cities haunt their later literature and culture and might prompt us to reconsider the relationship between human culture and the environment.

Cities covered include: Berlin, Boston, Chicago, Hamburg, London, New Orleans, New York, Paris, St. Petersburg, Toronto, Venice and Washington.
The Bloomsbury Research Handbook of Chinese Philosophy Methodologies
Authors: Tan Sor-hoon
Published: October 2016

The Bloomsbury Research Handbook of Chinese Philosophy Methodologies presents a new understanding of the changing methods used to study Chinese philosophy. By identifying the various different approaches and discussing the role, and significance of philosophical methods in the Chinese tradition, this collection identifies difficulties and exciting developments for scholars of Asian philosophy.

Divided into four parts, the nature of Chinese philosophical thought is illuminated by discussing historical developments, current concerns and methodological challenges. Surveying recent methodological trends, this research companion explores and evaluates the methodologies that have been applied to Chinese philosophy. From these diverse angles, an international team of experts reflect on the considerations that enter their methodological choices and indicate new research directions. The Bloomsbury Research Handbook of Chinese Philosophy Methodologies is an important contribution to the education of the next generation of Chinese philosophers.
Reliability and validity of the Polish version of the Movement Imagery Questionnaire-3 (MIQ-3)
Authors: Budnik-Przybylska Dagmara , Szczypińska Marta , Karasiewicz Karol
Published: October 2016

Background

Imagery is often beneficial not only in gaining a psychological advantage when competing but also in building self-esteem and self-confidence. The aim of this study was to examine the reliability and validity of the Polish adaptation of the Movement Imagery Questionnaire-3 (MIQ-3), consisting of 12 questions measuring 3 dimensions: visual internal imagery, visual external imagery and kinesthetic imagery.

Participants and procedure

A sample of athletes (N = 276 – 102 women, 174 men (M = 21.25, SD = 6.35)) of various disciplines (football, volleyball, karate, swimming, etc.) with different sport experience (from recreation to the national team) filled in the MIQ-3 questionnaire in the Polish language.

Results

The results of the confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) with maximum likelihood confirmed that the established three-factor model reflects well the relationships observed in the respondents’ answers (satisfactory value of RMSEA below the recommended value of .05 (RMSEA = .04) and a high value of the index above .90 CFI (CFI = .93)). Reliability indicators (composite reliability – CR) observed for individual factors indicated a very high internal consistency (external visual imagery = .75, internal visual imagery = .79 and kinesthetic imagery = .82). The results indicated that good stability and internal consistency were maintained over a 3-week period. In addition, analyses were examined across age, level of experience and gender.

Conclusions

The results of the present study support the psychometric properties of the Polish adaptation of the MIQ-3.
Magnetic resonance imaging in inflammatory rheumatoid diseases
Authors: Sudoł-Szopińska Iwona , Mróz Joanna , Ostrowska Monika , Kwiatkowska Brygida
Published: October 2016

Magnetic resonance (MR) is used more and more frequently to diagnose changes in the musculoskeletal system in the course of rheumatic diseases, at their initial assessment, for treatment monitoring and for identification of complications. The article presents the history of magnetic resonance imaging, the basic principles underlying its operation as well as types of magnets, coils and MRI protocols used in the diagnostic process of rheumatic diseases. It enumerates advantages and disadvantages of individual MRI scanners. The principles of MRI coil operation are explained, and the sequences used for MR image analysis are described, particularly in terms of their application in rheumatology, including T1-, T2-, PD-weighted, STIR/TIRM and contrast-enhanced T1-weighted images. Furthermore, views on the need to use contrast agents to optimise diagnosis, particularly in synovitis-like changes, are presented. Finally, methods for the assessment of MR images are listed, including the semi-quantitative method by RAMRIS and quantitative dynamic examination.
Immunity and early atherosclerosis in the course of systemic lupus erythematosus, mixed connective tissue disease
and antiphospholipid syndrome
Authors: Haładyj Ewa , Paradowska-Gorycka Agnieszka , Felis-Giemza Anna , Olesińska Marzena
Published: October 2016

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the arteries associated with various risk factors that promote lipid abnormalities, development and progression of atherosclerotic lesions, plaque rupture, and vascular thrombosis. Atherosclerosis is accelerated in autoimmune diseases. Non-invasive investigations showed increased intima-media thickness (IMT), carotid plaque, and coronary artery calcifications in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome, systemic lupus erythematosus and mixed connective tissue disease compared to controls. The balance between the proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines allows the immune equilibrium to be maintained. In autoimmune diseases the prevalence of proinflammatory factors leads to premature atherosclerosis. This review presents complementary knowledge on innate and adaptive immunity, cytokines and the role of inflammasomes in progression of early atherosclerosis.
Limited diagnostic value of procalcitonin in early diagnosis of adult onset Still’s disease
Authors: Gowin Ewelina , Wysocki Jacek
Published: October 2016

A 17-year-old female patient was referred to the Infectious Diseases Ward because of fever lasting for 14 days. On admission to the hospital the patient was in a generally good state, without any abnormalities on physical examination.

Laboratory investigation revealed elevated inflammatory markers. Diagnostic imaging comprising chest X-ray, abdominal ultrasonography, and echocardiography showed no abnormalities. During the hospitalization, there occurred episodes of fever with skin rash and musculoskeletal pain of the lower limbs. Procalcitonin concentrations continued to increase. C-reactive protein concentrations decreased during therapy, starting from 191 mg/l. On the 23rd day of the disease, edema of the feet, ankles, and knees appeared.

On the basis of the clinical picture and after excluding other possible causes of fever, the patient was diagnosed with adult onset Still’s disease. The procalcitonin concentration was normalized after 5 days of steroid therapy. The patient was discharged under ambulatory rheumatologic supervision.
Mixed generalized/juxta-articular form of Dercum’s disease
Authors: J. Kucharz Eugeniusz , Kramza Justyna , Kotyla Przemysław , Kotulska Anna
Published: October 2016

Dercum’s disease is a rare disorder with subcutaneous formation of fatty tissue (lipomas) with symptoms of pain, fatigue, stiffness, weakness and in some cases arthritis. The rarity of this disease causes that it is not taken into consideration in the rheumatological differential diagnosis, so this short report draws attention to this rare disease.
Properties of aerosols and formation mechanisms over southern China during
the monsoon season
Authors: Chen Weihua , Wang Xuemei , Cohen Jason Blake , Zhou Shengzhen , Zhang Zhisheng , Chang Ming , Chan Chuen-Yu
Published: October 2016

Abstract. Measurements of size-resolved aerosols from 0.25 to 18 µm were conducted at three sites (urban, suburban and background sites) and used in tandem with an atmospheric transport model to study the size distribution and formation of atmospheric aerosols in southern China during the monsoon season (May–June) in 2010. The mass distribution showed the majority of chemical components were found in the smaller size bins (< 2.5 µm). Sulfate was found to be strongly correlated with aerosol water and anticorrelated with atmospheric SO2, hinting at aqueous-phase reactions being the main formation pathway. Nitrate was the only major species that showed a bimodal distribution at the urban site and was dominated by the coarse mode in the other two sites, suggesting that an important component of nitrate formation is chloride depletion of sea salt transported from the South China Sea. In addition to these aqueous-phase reactions and interactions with sea salt aerosols, new particle formation, chemical aging, and long-range transport from upwind urban or biomass burning regions was also found to be important in at least some of the sites on some of the days. This work therefore summarizes the different mechanisms that significantly impact the aerosol chemical composition during the monsoon over southern China.
Comprehensive characterization of humic-like substances in smoke PM2.5
emitted from the combustion of biomass materials and fossil fuels
Authors: Fan Xingjun , Wei Siye , Zhu Mengbo , Song Jianzhong , Peng Ping'an
Published: October 2016

Abstract. Humic-like substances (HULIS) in smoke fine particulate matter (PM2.5) emitted from the combustion of biomass materials (rice straw, corn straw, and pine branch) and fossil fuels (lignite coal and diesel fuel) were comprehensively studied in this work. The HULIS fractions were first isolated with a one-step solid-phase extraction method, and were then investigated with a series of analytical techniques: elemental analysis, total organic carbon analysis, UV–vis (ultraviolet–visible) spectroscopy, excitation–emission matrix (EEM) fluorescence spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and 1H-nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The results show that HULIS account for 11.2–23.4 and 5.3 % of PM2.5 emitted from biomass burning (BB) and coal combustion, respectively. In addition, contributions of HULIS-C to total carbon and water-soluble carbon in smoke PM2.5 emitted from BB are 8.0–21.7 and 56.9–66.1 %, respectively. The corresponding contributions in smoke PM2.5 from coal combustion are 5.2 and 45.5 %, respectively. These results suggest that BB and coal combustion are both important sources of HULIS in atmospheric aerosols. However, HULIS in diesel soot only accounted for  ∼  0.8 % of the soot particles, suggesting that vehicular exhaust may not be a significant primary source of HULIS. Primary HULIS and atmospheric HULIS display many similar chemical characteristics, as indicated by the instrumental analytical characterization, while some distinct features were also apparent. A high spectral absorbance in the UV–vis spectra, a distinct band at λex∕λem ≈  280∕350 nm in EEM spectra, lower H ∕ C and O ∕ C molar ratios, and a high content of [Ar–H] were observed for primary HULIS. These results suggest that primary HULIS contain more aromatic structures, and have a lower content of aliphatic and oxygen-containing groups than atmospheric HULIS. Among the four primary sources of HULIS, HULIS from BB had the highest O ∕ C molar ratios (0.43–0.54) and [H–C–O] content (10–19 %), indicating that HULIS from this source mainly consisted of carbohydrate- and phenolic-like structures. HULIS from coal combustion had a lower O ∕ C molar ratio (0.27) and a higher content of [Ar–H] (31 %), suggesting that aromatic compounds were extremely abundant in HULIS from this source. Moreover, the absorption Ångström exponents of primary HULIS from BB and coal combustion were 6.7–8.2 and 13.6, respectively. The mass absorption efficiencies of primary HULIS from BB and coal combustion at 365 nm (MAE365) were 0.97–2.09 and 0.63 m2 gC−1, respectively. Noticeably higher MAE365 values for primary HULIS from BB than coal combustion indicate that the former has a stronger contribution to the light-absorbing properties of aerosols in the atmospheric environment.
Regional responses of surface ozone in Europe to the location of
high-latitude blocks and subtropical ridges
Authors: Ordóñez Carlos , Barriopedro David , García-Herrera Ricardo , Sousa Pedro M. , Schnell Jordan L.
Published: October 2016

Abstract. This paper analyses for the first time the impact of high-latitude blocks and subtropical ridges on near-surface ozone in Europe during a 15-year period. For this purpose, a catalogue of blocks and ridges over the Euro-Atlantic region is used together with a gridded dataset of maximum daily 8-hour running average ozone (MDA8 O3) covering the period 1998–2012. The response of ozone to the location of blocks and ridges with centres in three longitudinal sectors (Atlantic, ATL, 30º–0º W; European, EUR, 0º–30º E; Russian, RUS, 30º–60º E) is examined. The impact of blocks on ozone is regionally and seasonally dependent. In particular, blocks within the EUR sector yield positive ozone anomalies of ~ 5–10 ppb over large parts of central Europe in spring and northern Europe in summer. Over 20 % and 30 % of the days with blocks in that sector register exceedances of the 90th percentile of the seasonal ozone distribution at many European locations during spring and summer, respectively. The impacts of ridges during those seasons are subtle and more sensitive to their specific location, although they can trigger ozone anomalies of ~ 5–10 ppb in Italy and the surrounding countries in summer, eventually exceeding European air quality targets. During winter, surface ozone in the northwest of Europe presents completely opposite responses to blocks and ridges. The anticyclonic circulation associated with winter EUR blocking, and to a lesser extent with ATL blocking, yields negative ozone anomalies between −5 ppb and −10 ppb over the UK, Northern France and the Benelux. Conversely, the enhanced zonal flow around 50˚–60˚ N during the occurrence of ATL ridges favours the arrival of background air masses from the Atlantic and the ventilation of the boundary layer, producing positive ozone anomalies above 5 ppb in an area spanning from the British Isles to Germany. This work provides the first quantitative assessments of the remarkable but distinct impacts that the anticyclonic circulation and the diversion of the zonal flow associated with blocks and ridges exert on surface ozone in Europe. The findings reported here can be exploited in the future to evaluate the modelled responses of ozone to circulation changes within chemical transport models (CTMs) and chemistry-climate models (CCMs).
Plume Propagation Direction Determination with SO2 Cameras
Authors: Klein Angelika , Lübcke Peter , Bobrowski Nicole , Kuhn Jonas , Platt Ulrich
Published: October 2016

Abstract. SO2 cameras are becoming an established tool for measuring sulphur dioxide (SO2) fluxes in volcanic plumes with good precision and high temporal resolution. The primary result of SO2 camera measurements are time series of two-dimensional SO2 column density distributions (i.e. SO2 column density images). However it is frequently overlooked that in order to determine the correct SO2 fluxes, not only the SO2 column density, but also the distance between the camera and the volcanic plume have to be precisely known. This is because cameras only measure angular extensions of objects while flux measurements require knowledge of the spatial plume extension. The distance to the plume may vary within the image array (i.e. the field of view of the SO2 camera) since the plume propagation direction (i.e. the wind direction) might not be parallel to the image plane of the SO2 camera. If the wind direction and thus the camera-plume distance is not well known, this error propagates into the determined SO2 fluxes and can cause errors exceeding 50 %. This is a source of error which is independent of the frequently quoted (approximate) compensation of apparently higher SO2 column densities and apparently lower plume propagation velocities at non-perpendicular plume observation angles. Here, we propose a new method to estimate the propagation direction of the volcanic plume directly from SO2 camera image time series by analysing apparent flux gradients along the image plane. From the plume propagation direction and the known location of the SO2 source (i.e. volcanic vent) and camera position the camera-plume distance can be determined. Besides being able to determine the plume propagation direction, and thus the wind direction in the plume region, directly from SO2 camera images, we additionally found, that it is possible to detect changes of the propagation direction at a time resolution on the order of minutes. In addition to theoretical studies we applied our method to SO2 flux measurements at Mt. Etna and demonstrate that we obtain considerably more precise (up to a factor of 2 error reduction) SO2 fluxes. We conclude that studies on SO2 flux variability become more reliable by excluding the possible influences of propagation direction variations.
Eddy covariance carbonyl sulphide flux measurements with a quantum cascade laser absorption spectrometer
Authors: Gerdel Katharina , Spielmann Felix M. , Hammerle Albin , Wohlfahrt Georg
Published: October 2016

Abstract. The trace gas carbonyl sulphide (COS) has lately received growing interest in the eddy covariance (EC) community due to its potential to serve as an independent approach for constraining gross primary production and canopy stomatal conductance. Thanks to recent developments of fast-response high-precision trace gas analysers (e.g. quantum cascade laser absorption spectrometers (QCLAS)), a handful of EC COS flux measurements have been published since 2013. To date, however, a thorough methodological characterisation of QCLAS with regard to the requirements of the EC technique and the necessary processing steps has not been conducted. The objective of this study is to provide for the first time a rigorous analysis of the most widely used QCLAS model for making defensible EC COS flux measurements. Data were collected from May to October 2015 at a temperate mountain grassland in Tyrol, Austria. Analysis of the Allan variance of high-frequency concentration measurements revealed laser drift to occur under field conditions after an averaging time of around 50 s. We thus explored the use of two high-pass filtering approaches (linear detrending and recursive filtering) as opposed to block averaging for covariance computation. Spectral analysis revealed considerable noise at higher frequencies, appearing to influence the high-frequency region of co-spectra (and therefore covariances). By applying a finite-impulse response filter we removed the noise-affected spectral region. The effects of this digital high- and low-pass filtering, and additional low-pass filtering due to the eddy covariance system design, were corrected for using a site-specific reference model co-spectrum and a series of transfer functions. An independent validation of these post-processing steps was achieved by comparison of the CO2 and H2O flux measurements obtained with the QCLAS against those obtained with a closed-path infrared gas analyser. While the validation showed good correspondence and minor statistical differences between the three different high-pass filtering approaches – the benefits of high pass filtering clearly emerged as a reduction of the random flux uncertainty and a higher fraction of data passing the applied QA/QC criterions. We conclude that the most widely used QCLAS can be used to make defensible COS flux measurements provided the appropriate corrections are applied.
Investigation of the relationship between drinking water quality based on
content of inorganic components and landform classes using fuzzy AHP (case
study: south of Firozabad, west of Fars province, Iran)
Authors: Mokarram Marzieh , Sathyamoorthy Dinesh
Published: October 2016

Abstract. In this study, the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (AHP) is used to study the relationship between drinking water quality based on content of inorganic components and landform classes in the south of Firozabad, west of Fars province, Iran. For determination of drinking water quality based on content of inorganic components, parameters of calcium (Ca), chlorine (Cl), magnesium (Mg), thorium (TH), sodium (Na), electrical conductivity (EC), sulfate (SO4), and total dissolved solids (TDS) were used. It was found that 8.29 % of the study area has low water quality; 64.01 %, moderate; 23.33 %, high; and 4.38 %, very high. Areas with suitable drinking water quality based on content of inorganic components are located in parts of the south-eastern and south-western parts of the study area. The relationship between landform class and drinking water quality based on content of inorganic components shows that drinking water quality based on content of inorganic components is high in the stream, valleys, upland drainages, and local ridge classes, and low in the plain small and midslope classes. In fact we can predict water quality using extraction of landform classes from a digital elevation model (DEM) by the Topographic Position Index (TPI) method, so that streams, valleys, upland drainages, and local ridge classes have more water quality than the other classes. In the study we determined that without measurement of water sample characteristics, we can determine water quality by landform classes.
Observed and Modelled Mixed-Layer Properties on the Continental Shelf of Sardinia (Mediterranean Sea)
Authors: Onken Reiner
Published: October 2016

Abstract. The Regional Ocean Modeling System (ROMS) has been employed to explore the sensitivity of the forecast skill of mixed-layer properties to the initial conditions, boundary conditions, and vertical mixing parameterisations. The initial and lateral boundary conditions were provided by the Mediterranean Forecasting System (MFS) or by the MERCATOR global ocean circulation model via one-way nesting; the initial conditions were additionally updated by the assimilation of observations. Nowcasts and forecasts from the weather forecast models COSMO-ME and COSMO-IT, partly melded with observations, served as surface boundary conditions. The vertical mixing was parameterised by the GLS (Generic Length Scale) scheme (Umlauf et al. 2003) in four different setups. All ROMS forecasts were validated against observations which were taken during the REP14-MED oceanographic survey to the west of Sardinia. Nesting ROMS in MERCATOR and updating the initial conditions by data assimilation provided the best agreement of the predicted mixed-layer temperature and the mixed-layer depth with time series from a moored thermistor chain. Further improvement was obtained by the usage of COSMO-ME atmospheric forcing which was melded with real observations, and by the application of the k − ε vertical mixing scheme with increased vertical eddy diffusivity. The predicted temporal variability of the mixed-layer temperature was reasonably well correlated with the observed variability in the frequency range above one cycle per day, while the modelled variability of the mixed-layer depth exhibited only agreement with the observations near the diurnal frequency peak. For the forecasted horizontal variability, reasonable agreement was found with observations from a ScanFish section, but only for the mesoscale wavenumber band; the observed sub-mesoscale variability was not reproduced by ROMS.
Luis II de Baviera y Luchino Visconti: ¿vidas paralelas? Estudio sobre Luis II de Baviera
Authors: García Crego Juan , García Fernández Juan Vicente
Published: October 2016

En esta investigación se presenta la figura de un personaje histórico como fue Luis II de Baviera (1845-1886) y la visión que sobre él y su reinado realizó para el cine el director italiano Luchino Visconti. Seplantea de manera analítica y precisa los paralelismos entre la figura histórica del rey, su representaciónfílmica y el director de la misma. También se muestra, a través de esta investigación exhaustiva,la descripción de una estética generada por directores como Visconti que marcaron una cima en la historiadel cine europeo. Por último nos adentraremos en el rodaje de Ludwig, que pasó de ser un film detransición en la obra de Visconti a afectarle tanto psíquica como físicamente y que terminó ocasionándoleseveros problemas de salud cuyas secuelas que le abocaron finalmente a la muerte, ya que falleciócuatro años después de filmar esta película.
Corneal Higher-Order Aberrations after Phacoemulsification: A Comparison of 3 Different Incision Sizes
Authors: von Sonnleithner Christoph , Pilger Daniel , Homburg David , Brockmann Tobias , Torun Necip , Bertelmann Eckart
Published: October 2016

Purpose

To analyze the impact of different incision sizes for phacoemulsification on corneal higher-order aberrations (HOA).

Methods

Patients seeking cataract surgery were randomly assigned to one of the following groups: 1.4 mm with biaxial microincision phacoemulsification (25 eyes), 1.8 mm with coaxial phacoemulsification (27 eyes), and 2.2 mm with coaxial phacoemulsification (62 eyes). Inclusion criteria were a minimum age of 18 years and uncomplicated cataract. Exclusion criteria were history of ocular trauma or intraocular surgery, any sign of inflammation or infection, pseudoexfoliation syndrome, glaucoma, optic atrophy, diabetic retinopathy, lens dislocation, cataracta intumescens, cataracta matura, and corneal diseases. Patients underwent phacoemulsification with implantation of an intraocular lens. Aberrometry was performed using an iTrace aberrometer with a pupil scan size of 5.0 mm preoperatively and at postoperative follow-up visits after 1 month. The paired sample t test and analysis of covariance were used for statistical analysis.

Results

Ninety patients (114 eyes) were enrolled (mean age 73.7 ± 8.9 years). In all groups, an increase of total HOAs could be measured. The strongest increase was seen in the 2.2 mm group (mean difference 0.031 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.006-0.056], p = 0.014) and in the 1.4 mm group (mean difference 0.035 [95% CI -0.007 to 0078], p = 0.097). No important difference was found in the 1.8 mm group.

Conclusions

The 2.2 mm and the 1.4 mm incisions seem to have a higher impact on corneal HOAs in comparison to the 1.8 mm incision.
Listeria Infections of the Eye
Authors: Hof Herbert
Published: October 2016

The bacterium Listeria monocytogenes resides originally in the environment. Infections of the eye have been induced experimentally; for example, in rabbits and guinea pigs. Natural ocular infections occur in various animals; in most instances, they are induced exogenously; for example, by contaminated silage affecting primarily the conjunctiva, cornea, or the anterior chamber. Sporadic infections as well as outbreaks have been described. In humans, besides exogenous infections, endogenous infections also occur, inducing mainly endophthalmitis. Since an exact diagnosis of the causative agent is often delayed, specific therapy starts too late, so that the outcome is often poor. The antibiotics of primary choice would be ampicillin or a quinolone such as moxifloxacin or levofloxacin. The role of fosfomycin for therapy of ocular infections is discussed.
Adjunctive Triamcinolone Acetonide for Ahmed Glaucoma Valve Implantation: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Yazdani Shahin , Doozandeh Azadeh , Pakravan Mohammad , Ownagh Vahid , Yaseri Mehdi
Published: October 2016

Purpose

To evaluate the effect of intraoperative sub-Tenon injection of triamcinolone acetonide (TA) as an adjunct to Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) implantation.

Methods

In this triple-blind randomized clinical trial, 104 eyes with refractory glaucoma were randomly assigned to conventional AGV (non-TA group) or AGV with adjunctive triamcinolone (TA group). In the TA group, 10 mg TA was injected in the sub-Tenon space around the AGV plate intraoperatively. Patients were followed for 1 year. The main outcome measure was intraocular pressure (IOP). Other outcome measures included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), occurrence of hypertensive phase (HP), peak IOP, number of antiglaucoma medications, and complications.

Results

A total of 90 patients were included in the final analysis. Mean IOP was lower in the TA group at most follow-up visits; however, the difference was statistically significant only at the first month (p = 0.004). Linear mixed model showed that mean IOP was 1.5 mm Hg lower in the TA group throughout the study period (p = 0.006). Peak postoperative IOP was significantly lower in the TA group (19.3 ± 4.8 mm Hg versus 29 ± 9.2 mm Hg, p = 0.032). Rates of success (defined as 6 < IOP <21 mm Hg) were similar in both groups at 12 months. There was no difference in the occurrence of the HP between the 2 groups (p = 0.123). Loss of BCVA >2 lines was more common in the non-TA group (p = 0.032).

Conclusions

Adjunctive intraoperative TA injection during AGV implantation can blunt peak IOP levels and reduce mean IOP up to 1 year. Visual outcomes also seem to be superior to standard surgery.
Transpositional Periacetabular Osteotomy with Allografting in Patients with Severe Dysplasia: Mid-Term Results
Authors: Sonohata Motoki , Yonekura Yutaka , Kitajima Masaru , Kawano Syunsuke , Mawatari Masaaki
Published: October 2016

Aim

The purpose of this study was to analyse the extent of surgical correction and the early clinical results obtained using periacetabular osteotomy with allogenic bone grafting in patients with severe acetabular dysplasia.

Methods

44 hips in 38 patients were confirmed to have severe acetabular dysplasia and underwent this procedure. The mean follow-up period was 4.2 (range 1.5-8.2) years. Severe acetabular dysplasia was defined as a centre-edge angle less than 0°, an acetabular-head index less than 50% and an acetabular roof obliquity greater than 30°. Periacetabular osteotomy was performed with transpositional osteotomy of the acetabulum. The patients were divided into 2 groups according to the radiographic appearance: 34 hips in the early stage group and 10 hips in the advanced stage group. Postoperatively, the hips were radiographically assessed for dysplasia correction. The clinical results and hip function were measured using the Harris Hip Score.

Results

The average pre-operative Harris Hip Score improved from 70 to 91 points at the latest follow-up. The average centre-edge angle, acetabular-head index and acetabular roof obliquity improved from −9° to 36°, 41% to 91% and 31° to 2°, respectively. Continuity of the Shenton line improved from 15 to 35 hips. No instances of nonunion or of transported segment collapse were encountered in this series; however, a grafted allogenic bone was absorbed in 1 case.

Conclusions

The usage of allogenic bone grafting combined with periacetabular osteotomy is an effective technique for treating severe acetabular dysplasia. In this series, the early clinical and radiographic results were excellent.
Pre-Operative Planning of Total Hip Arthroplasty on Dysplastic Acetabuli
Authors: Lakstein Dror , Tan Zachary , Oren Nugzar , Mäkinen Tatu Johannes , Gross Allan E. , Safir Oleg
Published: October 2016

Background

When performing total hip arthroplasty (THA) on a dysplastic hip, proper positioning of the acetabular component may not allow for more than 70% coverage. Structural support in the form of an autograft or a high porosity metal augment may be necessary. The purpose of the study was to investigate the value of pre-operative templating and deformity classification in predicting cup coverage and the need for structural support.

Methods

65 cases of THA for DDH were retrospectively analysed. 2 observers independently classified each dysplastic hip according to Hartofilakidis and determined the extent of cup coverage via templating software on pre-operative digital AP pelvic radiographs.

Results

Weighted kappa interobserver agreement was 0.68 for cup coverage and 0.76 for Hartofilakidis type. Structural support was necessary in 10 hips. No structural support was necessary in Hartofilakidis type 1, dysplasia cases. However, 27-30% of cases with type 2 or type 3 dysplasia required structural support. All cases with templated cup coverage of 65% or less required structural support. Templated coverage within 65-75% and over 75% resulted in 20% and 10% of patients receiving structural augmentation, respectively.

Conclusions

Pre-Operative planning for THA in the setting of hip dysplasia is crucial and can provide valuable insight to the need for column augmentation. However, the 3-D severity of the deformity may be underestimated in the 2-D radiographs.
Complications and Short-Term Patient Outcomes of Periacetabular Osteotomy for Symptomatic Mild Hip Dysplasia
Authors: Ricciardi Benjamin F. , Fields Kara G. , Wentzel Catherine , Nawabi Danyal H. , Kelly Bryan T. , Sink Ernest L.
Published: October 2016

Introduction

The purpose of our study is to identify complications and early functional outcome scores in patients treated with periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) for mild acetabular dysplasia.

Methods

The study population consisted of patients from a single centre prospective hip registry undergoing PAO with mild acetabular dysplasia (LCEA ≥18° and ≤25°; n = 27 patients; Mild Dysplasia group). A comparison group of patients undergoing PAO with more severe acetabular dysplasia (lateral centre-edge angle [LCEA] ≤17°; n = 50 patients; Severe Dysplasia group) were included as a comparison cohort. Demographics, radiographic findings, complications, and functional outcome scores were recorded at 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years postoperatively (mean 15 months [range 6-30]).

Results

Demographic characteristics were similar in patients with mild dysplasia undergoing PAO compared with more severe dysplasia. Achievement of radiological correction and complication rates were not different between the 2 groups. Functional outcome scores showed similar improvements in modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS), hip outcome score (HOS) activities of daily living (ADL), HOS Sport, and the international Hip Outcome Tool-33 (iHOT-33) at all time points between the 2 groups with over 90% of patients in the mild dysplasia group achieving a minimum important change (MIC) in functional outcome scores at final follow-up.

Discussion

Patients with symptomatic mild acetabular dysplasia undergoing PAO have similar complication rates and functional outcomes as a cohort of patients with more severe dysplasia.