bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Bacterial Sealing Capacity of Morse Taper Implant–Abutment Systems in Vitro
Authors: Ranieri Rogerio , Ferreira Andreia , Souza Emmanuel , Arcoverde Joao , Dametto Fabio , Gade‐Neto Cicero , Seabra Flavio , Sarmento Carlos
Published: February 2015

Background: The use of Morse taper systems in dental implantology has been associated widely with a more precise adaptation between implants and their respective abutments. This may lead to an increase in the stability of the implant system and may also prevent microbial invasion through the implant–abutment interface. The aim of this study was to investigate in vitro the ability of four commercially available Morse taper system units to impede bacterial penetration through their implant–abutment interfaces.

Methods: Abutments were screwed onto the implants, and the units were subsequently immersed in Streptococcus sanguinis bacterial broth (1 × 108 colony forming units/mL) for 48 hours. The units were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) under three conditions: 1) with the implant–abutment components assembled as units to investigate for both the existence of microgaps and the presence of bacteria; 2) with the implants and abutments separated for examination of internal surfaces; and 3) with the implant–abutment components again assembled as units to measure any microgaps detected. The mean size of the microgaps in each unit was determined by measuring, under SEM, their width in four equidistant points.

Results: Microgaps were detected in all units with no significant differences in dimension (Kruskal‐Wallis test, P >0.05). Within all units, the presence of bacteria was also observed.

Conclusion: The seals provided by the interfaces of the commercially available Morse taper implant–abutment units tested were not sufficiently small to shield the implant from bacterial penetration.
Addressing O&G Big Data Challenges at the Remote Edge
Authors: Konovalov Serhiy
Published: February 2015

Objectives/Scope:

1. Outline challenges O&G Big data brings and emerging requirements 2. Propose alternative approach for Big Data processing at the remote sites and why Cloud is not enough 3. Demonstrate O&G use cases that benefit from the proposition Methods, Procedures, Process: Fog computing is a new and growing technology area designed to address requirements for processing at the edge of growing amounts of field data (O&G Internet of Things), and to address new applications that have low-latency requirements and can not be addressed by cloud infrastructure typical for other industries. Fog is not a replacement of the cloud, but an extension. It allows O&G companies to extend analytics, expand context awareness, improve data quality at the remote site (Oilfield, Offshore Drilling/Production Platform) Results, Observations, Conclusions: Key areas and emerging O&G application that benefit from Fog phenomena, and currently piloted by O&G majors and automation & instrumentation suppliers: • Real-time actionable analytics • Real-time data sharing between different applications, vendors and service providers • Wellhead optimisation • Fleet mobility and management • Leak detection and distributed safety systems • Employee safety • De-manning and automation • Secure, federated data ownership The technology fundamentally fits so well into the O&G industry as its operations are taking place in remote geographies, and there is a clear need for effective combined local and remote data processing, especially triggered by growing volumes of data at the edge. As an example, Distributed Acoustic Sensor for Vertical Flow Profiling use case is capable to generate around 1-2 TB of data per day per well. However, typical satellite channel to the data centre is around 250K-1Mb. Fog Computing enables pre-processing of the data and distributed analytics at the edge, thus optimising data transmission, however allowing geo scientist still to inquire high resolution data from remote site, in case there is an interest to zoom into particular area. Novel/Additive Information: Fog Computing is a new and revolutionising phenomena for field remote processing of data at scale. It is going through pilot stage, and O&G companies are loading it with multitude of use case and applications to explore full potential and develop competitive advantage with more agile platform for data insights and knowledge.
Loss of Genetic Diversity of Jatropha curcas L. through Domestication: Implications for Its Genetic Improvement
Authors: Sanou Haby , Angulo‐Escalante Miguel Angel , Martínez‐Herrera Jorge , Koné Souleymane , Nikiema Albert , Kalinganire Antoine , Hansen Jon Kehlet , Kjær Erik Dahl , Graudal Lars , Nielsen Lene Rostgaard
Published: February 2015

Jatropha curcas L. has been promoted as a “miracle” tree in many parts of the world, but recent studies have indicated very low levels of genetic diversity in various landraces. In this study, the genetic diversity of landrace collections of J. curcas was compared with the genetic diversity of the species from its native range, and the mating system was analyzed on the basis of microsatellite markers. The genetic diversity parameters were estimated, and analysis of molecular variance, principal coordinate analysis, and unrooted neighbor‐joining tree were used to describe the relationship among populations. Results confirmed very low genetic diversity in African and Asian landraces. Mexican populations from the regions of Veracruz, Puebla, and Morelos were also found to have low levels of diversity (mostly monomorphic), while populations from Chiapas were polymorphic with an expected heterozygosity between 0.34 and 0.54. Bayesian analysis showed differentiation according to geographic locations, which was confirmed by principal coordinate analysis and neighbor‐joining tree. Estimations of outcrossing rate of individual families from Chiapas showed that some mother trees were mainly outcrossing. Mating system could not be estimated in the landraces from Mali and populations from Veracruz, Puebla, and Morelos (Mexico), as these were highly monomorphic. The observed low level of genetic diversity in some of the populations and landraces suggests that breeding programs should test for genetic variation and heritability in relevant quantitative traits and estimate if sufficient gain can be expected from traditional testing and selection. Diversification of the local gene pools may be considered for breeding and selection.
Oral Health Status of Chinese Paediatric and Adolescent Oncology Patients
with Chemotherapy in Hong Kong: a Pilot Study
Authors: Kung A.Y.H , Zhang S , Zheng L.W , Wong G.H.M , Chu C.H
Published: February 2015

Aim:

To study the oral health status of Chinese children and adolescents undergoing chemotherapy in Hong Kong.

Method:

All Chinese children and adolescent oncology patients aged 18 or below attending the Children's Centre for Cancer and Blood Disease at a hospital for chemotherapy were invited and parental consent was sought before they were accepted into the study. The study comprised of 1) a parental questionnaire, 2) the collection of medical history and 3) a clinical examination for tooth decay (caries) and mucosal status.

Results:

A total of 69 patients were invited, and they all participated in this study. Their mean age was 9.2±5.0 and 44 (64%) were males. Twenty-six patients (38%) had no caries experience (DMFT and/or dmft = 0). Higher caries experience was detected in participants that were not born in Hong Kong, had completed active chemotherapy, participated in school dental care service and whose parents had low educational levels. There were 41 patients with active chemotherapy, 24 of whom were diagnosed with acute leukaemia, 5 with haematological malignancies other than leukaemia and 11 with solid tumours. Antimetabolites, cytotoxic antibiotics, alkylating agents and plant alkaloids were administered in 49%, 32%, 24% and 22% of them, respectively. Twenty-six (63%) patients showed no mucosal complications. The most common oral complication was oral mucositis (24%) followed by petechiae (10%).

Conclusion:

About two-thirds of paediatric and adolescent cancer patients had caries experience, which was more common among those who had completed chemotherapy. Oral mucositis followed by petechiae were the two most common complications of receiving chemotherapy.
Combination of Root Surface Modification with BMP-2 and Collagen
Hydrogel Scaffold Implantation for Periodontal Healing in Beagle Dogs
Authors: Kato Akihito , Miyaji Hirofumi , Ishizuka Ryosuke , Tokunaga Keisuke , Inoue Kana , Kosen Yuta , Yokoyama Hiroyuki , Sugaya Tsutomu , Tanaka Saori , Sakagami Ryuji , Kawanami Masamitsu
Published: February 2015

Objective : Biomodification of the root surface plays a major role in periodontal wound healing. Root surface modification with bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) stimulates bone and cementum-like tissue formation; however, severe ankylosis is simultaneously observed. Bio-safe collagen hydrogel scaffolds may therefore be useful for supplying periodontal ligament cells and preventing ankylosis. We examined the effects of BMP modification in conjunction with collagen hydrogel scaffold implantation on periodontal wound healing in dogs. Material and Methods: The collagen hydrogel scaffold was composed of type I collagen sponge and collagen hydrogel. One-wall infrabony defects (5 mm in depth, 3 mm in width) were surgically created in six beagle dogs. In the BMP/Col group, BMP-2 was applied to the root surface (loading dose; 1 µg/µl), and the defects were filled with collagen hydrogel scaffold. In the BMP or Col group, BMP-2 coating or scaffold implantation was performed. Histometric parameters were evaluated at 4 weeks after surgery. Results: Single use of BMP stimulated formation of alveolar bone and ankylosis. In contrast, the BMP/Col group frequently enhanced reconstruction of periodontal attachment including cementum-like tissue, periodontal ligament and alveolar bone. The amount of new periodontal ligament in the BMP/Col group was significantly greater when compared to all other groups. In addition, ankylosis was rarely observed in the BMP/Col group. Conclusion: The combination method using root surface modification with BMP and collagen hydrogel scaffold implantation facilitated the reestablishment of periodontal attachment. BMP-related ankylosis was suppressed by implantation of collagen hydrogel.
Polarographic determination of DNA based on its interaction with the phenanthroline-zinc(II) complex
Authors: Hui Ni , Liang Aiqin , Xue Changhui , Sun Wei
Published: February 2015

By using the linear sweep voltammetric technique, a phenanthroline (Phen) and
zinc(II) (Phen-Zn(II)) complex was used as the electrochemical probe for the
determination of double-stranded (ds) DNA. In pH 9.0 Britton- -Robinson (B-R)
buffer solution, Phen can interact with Zn(II) to form a stable electroactive
[Phen-Zn(II)] complex, which had a sensitive second order derivative
polarographic reductive peak at -1.300 V (vs. SCE). After the addition of
dsDNA into a solution of Phen-Zn(II) complex, the reduction peak current
decreased with a negative shift of the reduction peak potential and without
the appearance of new peaks. The results showed that a new supramolecular
complex was formed via interaction of the Phen-Zn(II) complex with dsDNA. The
conditions of interaction and the electrochemical detection were carefully
investigated. Under the optimum conditions, the decrease in the reduction
peak current was directly proportional to the dsDNA concentration in the
range of 0.4-18.0 mg L-1 with the linear regression equation: ?Ip?/nA =
349.48 + + 84.647(c/mg L-1) (n = 13, ? = 0.991) and a determination limit of
0.20 mg L-1 (3?). The relative standard deviation (RSD) for 10 parallel
determinations of 10.0 mg L-1 dsDNA was found to be 2.03 %. The method was
successfully applied to the detection of synthetic samples with satisfactory
results.
Influence of clay organic modifier on morphology and performance of poly(ε-caprolactone)/clay nanocomposites
Authors: Nikolic Marija , Djordjevic Natasa , Rogan Jelena , Djonlagic Jasna
Published: February 2015

Two series of poly(e-caprolactone) nanocomposites with different
organo-modified clays (1 to 8 wt%) were prepared by the solution casting
method. Organoclays with polar (Cloisite?C30B) and nonpolar (Cloisite?C15A)
organic modifier and with different miscibility with poly(e-caprolactone)
matrix, were chosen. Exfoliated and/or intercalated nanocomposite?s
structures were obtained by using high dilution and an ultrasonic treatment
for the composite preparation. The effect of the surface modification and
clay content on the morphology, mechanical and thermal properties of the
nanocomposites was studied. Scanning electron microscopy excluded the
formation of microcomposite. The wide-angle X-ray diffraction analysis
revealed that the tendency toward exfoliated structure is higher for the
Cloisite?C30B, which had better miscibility with poly(e-caprolactone) matrix.
Differences in spherulites? sizes and morphology between two series of the
nanocomposites were observed by the optical microscopy performed on as-casted
films. Enthalpies of fusion and degrees of crystallinity were higher for
nanocomposites than for neat poly(e-caprolactone) and increase with the clay
loading in both series, as a consequence of the clay nucleating effect.
Decreased thermal stability of nanocomposites was ascribed to thermal
instability of organic modifiers of the clays. The Halpin-Tsai model was used
to compare the theoretically predicted values of the Young?s modulus with
experimentally obtained ones in tensile tests.
Kinetic parameters study based on burn-up for improving the performance of research reactor equilibrium core
Authors: Muhammad Atta , Iqbal Masood , Mahmood Tayyab
Published: February 2015

In this study kinetic parameters, effective delayed neutron fraction and
prompt neutron generation time have been investigated at different burn-up
stages for research reactor's equilibrium core utilizing low enriched uranium
high density fuel (U3Si2-Al fuel with 4.8 g/cm3 of uranium). Results have
been compared with reference operating core of Pakistan research Reactor-1.
It was observed that by increasing fuel burn-up, effective delayed neutron
fraction is decreased while prompt neutron generation time is increased.
However, over all ratio beff/L is decreased with increasing burn-up. Prompt
neutron generation time L in the understudy core is lower than reference
operating core of reactor at all burn-up steps due to hard spectrum. It is
observed that beff is larger in the understudy core than reference operating
core of due to smaller size. Calculations were performed with the help of
computer codes WIMSD/4 and CITATION.
The combined method for uncertainty evaluation in electromagnetic radiation measurement
Authors: Kovacevic Aleksandar , Kovacevic Ana , Stankovic Koviljka , Kovacevic Uros
Published: February 2015

Electromagnetic radiation of all frequencies represents one of the most
common and fastest growing environmental influence. All populations are now
exposed to varying degrees of electromagnetic radiation and the levels will
continue to increase as technology advances. An electronic or electrical
product should not generate electromagnetic radiation which may impact the
environment. In addition, electromagnetic radiation measurement results need
to be accompanied by quantitative statements about their accuracy. This is
particularly important when decisions about product specifications are taken.
This paper presents an uncertainty budget for disturbance power measurements
of the equipment as part of electromagnetic radiation. We propose a model
which uses a mixed distribution for uncertainty evaluation. The evaluation of
the probability density function for the measurand has been done using the
Monte Carlo method and a modified least-squares method (combined method). For
illustration, this paper presents mixed distributions of two normal
distributions, normal and rectangular, respectively.
Comparison of the empirical variances and mean values of normally distributed populations of nuclear counts
Authors: Lazarevic Djordje , Obrenovic Marija , Fetahovic Irfan , Osmokrovic Predrag
Published: February 2015

This paper discusses the possibility of applying the F-test and double t-test
in problems related to the identification of number of radioactive isotopes
in a contaminated area by using only counters for radiation detection. The
descriptions of the F-test and the double t-test are given along with the
corresponding tabular values that enable their implementation. Finally, the
experiment is presented via two radioactive samples. The results of the
experiment were treated in the manner proposed in the paper and satisfactory
results were obtained.
Simulation studies of the ion beam transport system in a compact electrostatic accelerator-based D-D neutron generator
Authors: Das Basanta , Shyam Anurag , Das Rashmita , Rao Durga
Published: February 2015

The study of an ion beam transport mechanism contributes to the production of
a good quality ion beam with a higher current and better beam emittance. The
simulation of an ion beam provides the basis for optimizing the extraction
system and the acceleration gap for the ion source. In order to extract an
ion beam from an ion source, a carefully designed electrode system for the
required beam energy must be used. In our case, a self-extracted penning ion
source is used for ion generation, extraction and acceleration with a single
accelerating gap for the production of neutrons. The characteristics of the
ion beam extracted from this ion source were investigated using computer code
SIMION 8.0. The ion trajectories from different locations of the plasma
region were investigated. The simulation process provided a good platform for
a study on optimizing the extraction and focusing system of the ion beam
transported to the required target position without any losses and provided
an estimation of beam emittance.
Matching Dendrochronological Dates with the Southern Hemisphere 14C Bomb Curve to Confirm Annual Tree Rings in Pseudolmedia rigida from Bolivia
Authors: Andreu-Hayles Laia , Santos Guaciara M , Herrera-Ramírez David A , Martin-Fernández Javier , Ruiz-Carrascal Daniel , Boza-Espinoza Tatiana E , Fuentes Alfredo F , J⊘rgensen Peter M
Published: February 2015

This study used high-precision radiocarbon bomb-pulse dating of selected wood rings to provide an independent validation of the tree growth periodicity of Pseudolmedia rigida (Klotzsch & H. Karst) Cuatrec. from the Moraceae family, collected in the Madidi National Park in Bolivia. 14C content was measured by accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) in 10 samples from a single tree covering over 70 yr from 1939 to 2011. These preliminary calendar dates were determined by dendrochronological techniques and were also used to select the samples for 14C AMS. In order to validate these preliminary dates using the established Southern Hemisphere (SH) 14C atmospheric concentration data set, the targeted rings were selected to be formed during periods before and after the 14C bomb spike nuclear tests (i.e. 1950s–1960s). The excellent agreement of the dendrochronological dates and the 14C signatures in tree rings associated with the same dates provided by the bomb-pulse 14C atmospheric values for the SH (SHCal zone 1–2) confirms the annual periodicity of the observed growth layers, and thus the high potential of this species for tree-ring analysis. The lack of discrepancies between both data sets also suggests that there are no significant latitudinal differences between the 14C SHCal zone 1–2 curve and the 14C values obtained from the selected tree rings at this geographic location (14°33′S, 68°49′W) in South America. The annual resolution of P. rigida tree rings opens the possibility of broader applications of dendrochronological analysis for ecological and paleoclimatic studies in the Bolivian tropics, as well as the possibility of using wood samples from some tree species from this region to improve the quality of the bomb-pulse 14C SHCal curve at this latitude.
Synthesis and antimicrobial properties of camphorsulfonic acid derived imidazolium salts
Authors: Mikláš R. , Miklášová N. , Bukovský M. , Devínsky F.
Published: February 2015

A group of homochiral imidazolium salts bearing hydrophobic camphor derived moiety and ester or amide functional group were synthesized and characterized. The novel imidazolium bromides were tested as antimicrobial and antifungal agents and their minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) was evaluated and compared to clinically used benzalkonium bromide (BAB) and carbethopendecinium bromide. The MIC values of amide derivatives 2a and 2b were slightly smaller than those for BAB, indicating their good activity. None of the prepared salts was more effective than carbethopendecinium bromide. The biocidal efficacy of amide derivatives was much higher compared to the ester analogues.
Is Long Term Creatine and Glutamine Supplementation Effective in Enhancing Physical Performance of Military Police Officers?
Authors: Lázaro da Silveira Celismar , Paiva de Souza Thiago Siqueira , Batista Gilmário Ricarte , Targino de Araújo Adenilson , Gomes da Silva Júlio César , Cirilo de Sousa Maria do Socorro , Marta Carlos , Garrido Nuno Domingo
Published: February 2015

The objective of this study was to analyze the effect of supplementation with creatine and glutamine on physical fitness of military police officers. Therefore, an experimental double blind study was developed, with the final sample composed by 32 men randomly distributed into three groups: a group supplemented with creatine (n=10), glutamine (n=10) and a placebo group (n=12) and evaluated in three distinct moments, in an interval of three months (T1, T2 and T3). The physical training had a weekly frequency of 5 sessions x 90 min, including strength exercises, local muscular resistance, flexibility and both aerobic and anaerobic capacity. After analyzing the effect of time, group and interaction (group x time) for measures that indicated the physical capabilities of the subjects, a significant effect of time for the entire variable was identified (p<0,05). However, these differences were not observed when the univaried intragroups and intergroups analysis was performed (p>0,05). In face of the results it was concluded that supplementation with creatine and glutamine showed no ergogenic effect on physical performance in military police officers.
Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Body Composition in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Moreira Helena , Passos Betânia , Rocha Josiane , Reis Vivianne , Carneiro André , Gabriel Ronaldo
Published: February 2015

The object of the study was to analyze the relationship between aerobic fitness and body composition in postmenopausal women. We hypothesized that postmenopausal women that had higher adiposity had lower cardiorespiratory capacity, regardless of the characteristics of menopause. The sample included 208 women (57.57 ± 6.62 years), whose body composition and the basal metabolic rate were evaluated by octopolar bioimpedance (InBody 720) and the oxygen uptake by the modified Bruce protocol. Most of the sample showed obesity and a high visceral fat area. The visceral fat area and the basal metabolic rate explained 30% of the variation of oxygen uptake, regardless of age, time, nature or hormone therapy. The values of the latter variables were reduced in the presence of high central adiposity (-6.16 ml/kg/min) and the basal metabolic rate of less than 1238 kcal/day (-0.18 ml/kg/min). The women with oxygen uptake above 30.94 ml/kg/min showed lower values of total and central adiposity when compared with other groups. With an increase of aerobic fitness, there was a growing tendency of the average values of the soft lean mass index, with differences between the groups low-high and moderate-high. These results suggest worsening of the cardiorespiratory condition with an increase of central adiposity and a decrease of the BMR, regardless of age and menopause characteristics.
The Body Mass Index and Waist Circumference as Predictors of Body Composition in Post CSCI Wheelchair Rugby Players (Preliminary Investigations)
Authors: Zwierzchowska Anna , Głowacz Marta , Batko-Szwaczka Agnieszka , Dudziňska-Griszek Joanna , Mostowik Aleksandra , Drozd Miłosz , Szewieczek Jan
Published: February 2015

The enforced sedentary lifestyle and muscle paresis below the level of injury are associated with adipose tissue accumulation in the trunk. The value of anthropometric indicators of obesity in patients with spinal cord injuries has also been called into question. We hypothesized that the Body Mass Index recommended by the WHO to diagnose obesity in general population has too low sensitivity in case of wheelchair rugby players.

The study group comprised 14 wheelchair rugby players, aged 32.6 ± 5.1 years, who had sustained CSCI (paralysis of lower limbs and upper extremities). The research tool was the Tanita Viscan visceral and trunk fat analyzer AB140 using the abdominal bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) to estimate the visceral fat level (Vfat) and trunk fat percentage (Tfat). The AB140 analyzer also allowed the measurement of body composition of those individuals who could not assume an upright position. Our analyses revealed high and very high correlation coefficients between Vfat and WC (r=0.9), WHtR (r=0.7) and Tfat (r=0.9) whereas the correlation between Vfat and the BMI was weak, especially in the subgroup with Vfat < 13.5% ( r=0.2). The subgroup with Vfat>13.5 exhibited a moderate-level relationship between the BMI and visceral fat increase. It was concluded that the BMI had a low sensitivity for predicting obesity risk in wheelchair rugby players after CSCI. The sensitivity of WC measurement was higher and thus, it may be stated that it constitutes an objective tool for predicting obesity risk in post-CSCI wheelchair rugby players.
Physical Therapist Treatment of Patients in the Neurological Intensive Care Unit: Description of Practice
Authors: Sottile Peter D. , Nordon-Craft Amy , Malone Daniel , Luby Darcie M. , Schenkman Margaret , Moss Marc
Published: February 2015

Background

Although studies have established the safety and feasibility of physical therapy in the critical care setting, minimal information about physical therapist practice in the neurological intensive care unit (NICU) is available.

Objective

This study describes physical therapists' treatment of people admitted to a NICU.

Design

People admitted to the NICU with a diagnosis of subarachnoid hemorrhage, subdural hematoma, intracranial hemorrhage, or trauma were retrospectively studied.

Methods

Data on patient demographics, use of mechanical ventilation, and intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring were collected. For each physical therapy session, the length of the session, the location (NICU or post-NICU setting), and the presence of mechanical ventilation or ICP monitoring were recorded. Data on safety parameters, including vital sign response, falls, and dislodgement of lines, were collected.

Results

Over 1 year, 180 people were admitted to the NICU; 86 were evaluated by a physical therapist, for a total of 293 physical therapy sessions in the NICU (n=132) or post-NICU setting (n=161). Only one session (0.3%) was stopped, secondary to an increase in ICP. The first physical therapy session occurred on NICU day 3.0 (25%–75% interquartile range=2.0–6.0). Patients received a median of 3.4 sessions per week (25%–75% interquartile range=1.8–5.9). Patients with mechanical ventilation received less frequent physical therapy sessions than those without mechanical ventilation. Patients with ICP monitoring received less frequent sessions than those without ICP monitoring. However, after multivariate analysis, only the admission Glasgow Coma Score was independently associated with physical therapy frequency in the NICU. Patients were more likely to stand, transfer, and walk in the post-NICU setting than in the NICU.

Limitations

The results are limited by the retrospective, single-center nature of the study. There is inherent bias of evaluating only those patients who had physical therapy, and therapists were unable to completely adjust for the severity of illness of a given patient.

Conclusions

Physical therapy was performed safely in the NICU. Patients who required invasive support received less frequent physical therapy.
Longitudinal Relationship Among Physical Fitness, Walking-Related Physical Activity, and Fatigue in Children With Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Balemans Astrid C.J. , van Wely Leontien , Becher Jules G. , Dallmeijer Annet J.
Published: February 2015

Background

A vicious circle of decreased physical fitness, early fatigue, and low physical activity levels (PAL) is thought to affect children with cerebral palsy (CP). However, the relationship of changes in physical fitness to changes in PAL and fatigue is unclear.

Objective

The objective of this study was to investigate the associations among changes in physical fitness, walking-related PAL, and fatigue in children with CP.

Design

This study was a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial with measurements at baseline, 6 months (after the intervention period), and 12 months.

Methods

Twenty-four children with bilateral spastic CP and 22 with unilateral spastic CP, aged 7 to 13 years, all walking, participated in this study. Physical fitness was measured by aerobic capacity, anaerobic threshold, anaerobic capacity, and isometric and functional muscle strength. Walking-related PAL was measured using an ankle-worn activity monitor for 1 week. Fatigue was determined with the Pediatric Quality of Life (PedsQL) Multidimensional Fatigue Scale. Longitudinal associations were analyzed by random coefficient regression analysis.

Results

In children with bilateral CP, all fitness parameters showed a positive, significant association with walking-related PAL, whereas no associations between physical fitness and walking-related PAL were seen in children with unilateral CP. No clinically relevant association between physical fitness and fatigue was found.

Limitations

Although random coefficient regression analysis can be used to investigate longitudinal associations between parameters, a causal relationship cannot be determined. The actual direction of the association between physical fitness and walking-related PAL, therefore, remains inconclusive.

Conclusions

Children with bilateral spastic CP might benefit from improved physical fitness to increase their PAL or vice versa, although this is not the case in children with unilateral CP. There appears to be no relationship between physical fitness and self-reported fatigue in children with CP. Interventions aimed at improving PAL may be differently targeted in children with either bilateral or unilateral CP.
Interim estimates of 2014/15 influenza vaccine effectiveness in preventing laboratory-confirmed influenza-related hospitalisation from the Serious Outcomes Surveillance Network of the Canadian Immunization Research Network, January 2015
Authors: McNeil S A , Andrew M K , Ye L , Haguinet F , Hatchette T F , ElSherif M , LeBlanc J , Ambrose A , McGeer A , McElhaney J E , Loeb M , MacKinnon-Cameron D , Sharma R , Dos Santos G , Shinde V ,   on behalf of the Investigators of the Serious Outcomes Surveillance Network of the Canadian Immunization Research Network (CIRN)
Published: February 2015

Binary file ES_Abstracts_Final_ECDC.txt matches
Computed tomography morphometric analysis for C-1 posterior arch crossing screw placement in the pediatric cervical spine
Authors: Xiang Guang-Heng , Wang Chong , Lou Chao , Fang Ming-Qiao , Tian Nai-Feng , Xu Hua-Zi
Published: February 2015

OBJECT

The goal of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of the C-1 posterior arch crossing screw fixation technique in the pediatric age group.

METHODS

One hundred twenty-three pediatric patients were divided into 6 age groups. Computed tomography morphometric analysis of the C-1 posterior arch was performed. Measurements included height, width, and length. Statistical analysis was performed using the Student t-test and linear regression analysis.

RESULTS

The mean measurement of the posterior arch was height (6.35 ± 1.80 mm), width (Width 1: 4.48 ± 1.25 mm; Width 2: 4.42 ± 0.68 mm; Width 3: 4.42 ± 0.50 mm), and length (14.48 ± 1.67 mm). Seven (6.93%) of the 101 children in Groups 1–4 and 13 (59.1%) of the 22 children in Groups 5 and 6 could safely accommodate placement of C-1 posterior arch crossing screws.

CONCLUSIONS

This investigation found that a C-1 posterior arch crossing screw was feasible in this group of Chinese pediatric patients, particularly in those 13 years and older. Preoperative thin-cut CT is essential for identifying children in whom this technique is applicable and for planning screw placement.
A pilot study to assess the construct and face validity of the Northwestern Objective Microanastomosis Assessment Tool
Authors: Aoun Salah G. , El Ahmadieh Tarek Y. , El Tecle Najib E. , Daou Marc R. , Adel Joseph G. , Park Christine S. , Batjer H. Hunt , Bendok Bernard R.
Published: February 2015

OBJECT

Microsurgical skills remain an integral component of neurosurgical education. There is a need for an objective scale to assess microsurgical skills. The objective of this study was to assess the face and construct validity of a benchtraining microanastomosis module and an objective assessment scale, i.e., the Northwestern Objective Microanastomosis Assessment Tool (NOMAT).

METHODS

Medical students, neurosurgical residents, and postdoctoral research fellows at Northwestern University were enrolled in the study. Trainees were divided into 3 groups based on microsurgical experience: 1) experienced, 2) exposed, and 3) novices. Each trainee completed two end-to-end microanastomoses using a 1-mm and a 3-mm synthetic vessel. Two cameras were installed to capture procedural footage. One neurosurgeon blindly graded the performance of trainees using both objective and subjective methods to assess construct validity. Two neurosurgeons reviewed the contents of the simulation module to assess face validity.

RESULTS

Twenty-one trainees participated in the study, including 6 experienced, 6 exposed, and 9 novices. The mean NOMAT score for experienced trainees on the 1-mm module was 47.3/70 compared with 26.0/70 and 25.8/70 for exposed and novice trainees, respectively (p = 0.02). Using subjective grading, experienced trainees performed significantly better on the 1-mm module (64.2/100) compared with exposed or novice trainees (23.3/100 and 25.0/100, respectively; p = 0.02). No statistical difference between groups was noted for the 3-mm module with both NOMAT and subjective grading. Experienced trainees took less time to perform both tasks compared with the others.

CONCLUSIONS

Face and construct validities of the microanastomosis module were established. The scale and the microanastomosis module could help assess the microsurgical skills of neurosurgical trainees and serve as a basis for the creation of a microsurgical curriculum.
Cochlear line: a novel landmark for hearing preservation using the anterior petrosal approach
Authors: Kim Seong Min , Lee Ho Yun , Kim Han Kyu , Zabramski Joseph M.
Published: February 2015

OBJECT

The goal of this study was to develop a practical landmark for the safe and easy identification of the cochlea when performing anterior petrosectomy based on cadaver dissection results.

METHODS

The cochlear line was defined as the line drawn from the crossing point between the greater superficial petrosal nerve (GSPN) and the petrous internal carotid artery to the line drawn over the apex of the superior circumference of the dura of the internal auditory canal at a right angle. The validity of the cochlear line marking the anteromedial perimeter of the cochlea at the angle of the GSPN and the internal acoustic canal as a practical landmark were evaluated using 5 cadaver heads.

RESULTS

The mean distance (± SD) measured from the cochlear line to the margin of the cochlear cavity was 2.25 ± 0.51 mm (range 1.50–3.00 mm).

CONCLUSIONS

Anterior petrosectomy can be performed more efficiently by using the cochlear line as a key landmark to preserve the cochlea.
Stereotactic radiosurgery for arteriovenous malformations after Onyx embolization: a case-control study
Authors: Lee Cheng-Chia , Chen Ching-Jen , Ball Benjamin , Schlesinger David , Xu Zhiyuan , Yen Chun-Po , Sheehan Jason
Published: February 2015

OBJECT

Onyx, an ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer mixed in a dimethyl sulfoxide solvent, is currently one of the most widely used liquid materials for embolization of intracranial arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). The goal of this study was to define the risks and benefits of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for patients who have previously undergone partial AVM embolization with Onyx.

METHODS

Among a consecutive series of 199 patients who underwent SRS between January 2007 and December 2012 at the University of Virginia, 25 patients had Onyx embolization prior to SRS (the embolization group). To analyze the obliteration rates and complications, 50 patients who underwent SRS without prior embolization (the no-embolization group) were matched by propensity score method. The matched variables included age, sex, nidus volume before SRS, margin dose, Spetzler-Martin grade, Virginia Radiosurgery AVM Scale score, and median imaging follow-up period.

RESULTS

After Onyx embolization, 18 AVMs were reduced in size. Total obliteration was achieved in 6 cases (24%) at a median of 27.5 months after SRS. In the no-embolization group, total obliteration was achieved in 20 patients (40%) at a median of 22.4 months after SRS. Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated obliteration rates of 17.7% and 34.1% in the embolization group at 2 and 4 years, respectively. In the no-embolization group, the corresponding obliteration rates were 27.0% and 55.9%. The between-groups difference in obliteration rates after SRS did not achieve statistical significance. The difference in complications, including adverse radiation effects, hemorrhage episodes, seizure control, and patient mortality also did not reach statistical significance.

CONCLUSIONS

Onyx embolization can effectively reduce the size of many AVMs. This case-control study did not show any statistically significant difference in the rates of embolization or complications after SRS in patients who had previously undergone Onyx embolization and those who had not.
Aneurysm diameter as a risk factor for pretreatment rebleeding: a meta-analysis
Authors: Boogaarts Hieronymus D. , van Lieshout Jasper H. , van Amerongen Martinus J. , de Vries Joost , Verbeek André L. M. , Grotenhuis J. André , Westert Gert P. , Bartels Ronald H. M. A.
Published: February 2015

OBJECT

Aneurysmal rerupture prior to treatment is a major cause of death and morbidity in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage. Recognizing risk factors for aneurysmal rebleeding is particularly relevant and might help to identify the aneurysms that benefit from acute treatment. It is uncertain if the size of the aneurysm is related to rebleeding. This meta-analysis was performed to evaluate whether an association could be determined between aneurysm diameter and the rebleeding rate before treatment. Potentially confounding factors such age, aneurysm location, and the presence of hypertension were also evaluated.

METHODS

The authors systematically searched the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases up to April 3, 2013, for studies of patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage that reported the association between aneurysm diameter and pretreatment aneurysmal rebleeding. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) criteria were used to evaluate study quality.

RESULTS

Seven studies, representing 2121 patients, were included in the quantitative analysis. The quality of the studies was low in 2 and very low in 5. Almost all of the studies used 10 mm as the cutoff point for size among other classes, and only one used 7 mm. An analysis was performed with this best unifiable cutoff point. Overall rebleeding occurred in 360 (17.0%) of 2121 patients (incidence range, from study to study, 8.7%–28.4%). The rate of rebleeding in small and large aneurysms was 14.0% and 23.6%, respectively. The meta-analysis of the 7 studies revealed that larger size aneurysms were at a higher risk for rebleeding (OR 2.56 [95% CI 1.62–4.06]; p = 0.00; I2 = 60%). The sensitivity analysis did not alter the results. Five of the 7 studies reported data regarding age; 4 studies provided age-adjusted results and identified a persistent relationship between lesion size and the risk of rebleeding. The presence of hypertension was reported in two studies and was more prevalent in patients with rebleeding in one of these. Location (anterior vs posterior circulation) was reported in 5 studies, while in 4 there was no difference in the rebleeding rate. One study identified a lower risk of rebleeding associated with posterior location aneurysms.

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis showed that aneurysm size is an important risk factor for aneurysmal rebleeding and should be used in the clinical risk assessment of individual patients. The authors' results confirmed the current guidelines and underscored the importance of acute treatment for large ruptured aneurysms.
Duration of the horizontal decubitus position for prevention of cerebrospinal fluid leakage following transection of a tight filum terminale
Authors: Ogiwara Hideki , Joko Masahiro , Takado Michiko , Uematsu Kodai , Kameda Masahiro , Sasaki Natsu , Kitagawa Masashi , Morota Nobuhito
Published: February 2015

OBJECT

The untethering of a tethered spinal cord in patients with a tight filum terminale is a relatively simple procedure that can prevent or improve neurological symptoms. Postoperatively, patients are usually kept in the horizontal decubitus position to prevent a CSF leak. However, the optimal period for keeping patients flat has not been determined yet. The authors compared 2 cohorts with different periods of horizontal decubitus; one with 72 hours and the other with 8 days.

METHODS

The authors retrospectively analyzed surgical results in 2 cohorts of pediatric patients who had tethered spinal cord with a tight filum terminale. One cohort was maintained flat for 8 days and the other cohort for 72 hours postoperatively. The patients' charts were reviewed for demographic data, clinical presentation, surgical therapy, and clinical course.

RESULTS

Three hundred fifty-four patients underwent sectioning of a tight filum terminale. Of those, 238 were kept lying flat for 8 days postoperatively, and 116 were maintained flat for 72 hours. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed 1 to 2 weeks after the surgery. None of the patients in either cohort developed a CSF leak. Pseudomeningocele, which was confirmed by MRI, developed in 1 patient who had been kept flat for 8 days. The occurrence rates of a CSF leak and pseudomeningocele were not significantly different in either cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

Keeping patients flat for longer than 72 hours did not change the rate of postoperative CSF leakage or pseudomeningocele. Seventy-two hours or less would be an appropriate period for maintaining patients flat after transection of a tight filum terminale.
Analgesic and anti-diarrhoeal activities of Lagerstroemia speciosa roots in experimental animal model
Authors: Hussain Fahad , Ganguly Amlan , Hossain Mohammad Salim , Rahman SM Abdur
Published: February 2015

The methanolic crude extract of Lagerstroemia speciosa roots was investigated for its possible analgesic and anti-diarrhoeal activities in experimental animal model. Phytochemical screening of the methanolic extract of L. speciosa roots showed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins and reducing sugar. In acute toxicity study, no mortality or toxic reaction was recorded in animal model after administration of the L. speciosa roots extract. Analgesic activity was evaluated by using acetic acid induced writhing inhibition method in Swiss albino mice. In peripheral method of anti-nociception, the methanolic crude extract of L. speciosa roots showed significant analgesic activity. At the dose of 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight, the extract produced 35.38% and 53.85% (P<0.001) of writhing inhibition, respectively compared to standard diclofenac sodium (70.77% inhibition). The extract had also anti-diarrhoeal activity in castor oil induced method and inhibited the mean number of defecation by 32.75% (P<0.01) and 51.72 % (P<0.001) at the dose of 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight, respectively. The latent period for the extract treated group also increased significantly. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/dujps.v13i1.21860 Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 13(1): 57-62, 2014 (June)
Pattern and treatment of Vitiligo at Tertiary health care level in Dhaka city
Authors: Shuma Madhabi Lata , Halder Shimul , Rahman Md Motiur
Published: February 2015

The etiopathogenesis of depigmentation in vitiligo is still obscure that constitutes a major psychological health problem in Bangladesh. So our sociodemographic study represents the pattern and treatment of vitiligo at tertiary level of healthcare in Dhaka city. It has helped to identify the drugs used for the treatment of this disease. A total of 100 (70 male and 30 female) patients were interviewed at the Department of Dermatology and Venereology in Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University Hospital (BSMMUH) to conduct the study. It was observed that, the urban (62%) and upper-middle class people (55%) were most commonly affected by the disease. The most common signs of vitiligo were pale skin (45%) and itching (26%) and the drugs used to manage vitiligo were mainly methoxsalen (83%), riboflavin (53%), tacrolimus (49%), zinc sulphate B.P. (52%), tri-methyl solaren (55%), pimecrolimus (42%) and monobenzone (12%). Our population-based data provided evidence for a protective effect of vitiligo and supported the purported protective role against this disease. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/dujps.v13i1.21870 Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 13(1): 93-96, 2014 (June)