bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GIS/Remote sensing techniques for resource management and biodiversity protection in mountainous regions
Authors: All John
Published: July 2010

Biodiversity protection in mountainous regions requires effective fact-driven resource management techniques. Geoinformatic tools including GIS and remote sensing can be integrated to provide regional-scale data products across time for use in strategic and management level policymaking. Several principles are discussed to ensure that geoinformatics data and analysis can effectively contribute to resource management by clarifying issues and minimizing misinterpretation. A case study in the Chilean Andes elucidates these principles. Biological impacts of recent climate changes have not been equal across different ecosystems and stable forest ecosystems provide the best response to climate change. Geoinformatics is used to differentiate functional ecological groups and evaluate long-term resilience to climate change. Key-words: Chilean Andes; climate change; mountain ecosystems; geoinformatics; vegetation.DOI: 10.3126/botor.v6i0.2916 Botanica Orientalis - Journal of Plant Science (2009) 6: 93-99
In vitro study of Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Miers (Menispermaceae)
Authors: Singh Aditi , Sah Saroj K , Pradhan Aunji , Rajbahak Sabari , Maharajan Niran
Published: July 2010

In vitro study was carried out in an important medicinal plant Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Miers belonging to the family: Menispermaceae. Vegetative parts such as stem, leaf and nodal explants were excised from an elite in vivo grown mature plant and thereafter cultured on Murashige-Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with different hormonal concentrations for callus induction and organogenesis. Callus formation occurred from nodal segments, leaf and inter-node explants when planted on different combinations of hormones. Tinospora cordifolia showed response for in vitro shoot growth from the nodal segment. The best shoot growth was observed on MS medium supplemented with kinetin (1.5 mg/l). Similarly, the best result for root induction was obtained on MS medium supplemented with 6-benzylaminopurine (1.0 mg/l) and naphthaleneacetic acid (2.5 mg/l). Key-words: callus induction; explants; medicinal plant; MS medium; tissue culture.DOI: 10.3126/botor.v6i0.2918 Botanica Orientalis - Journal of Plant Science (2009) 6: 103-105
FVC, FEV1 and FEV1/ FVC % in Rheumatoid Arthritic Female and their Relationships with Duration of the Disease
Authors: Yesmin Farzana , Begum Shelina , Ferdousi Sultana
Published: July 2010

Background: Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is the most common inflammatory disorder mediated throughthe immune system, affecting joints and various organs including lungs. Pulmonary dysfunction inRA patients has been reported. Objective: To observe FVC, FEV1 and FEV1/ FVC % in female patientsof RA and their relationships with duration of the disease. Methods: This cross-sectional study wascarried out in the Department of Physiology, BSMMU, Dhaka, from January to December 2009 on 90RA female patients of 30-50 years age (Group B). For comparison, 30 age and BMI matched apparentlyhealthy subjects (Group A) were also studied. According to the duration of disease, RA patients weresubdivided into B1 (newly diagnosed), B2 (3-5 years ) and B3 (6-10 years ). They were selected from theOut Patient Department of Physical Medicine of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University,Dhaka. FVC, FEV1 and FEV1/FVC% of all the subjects were measured by a digital MicroDL spirometer.Results were expressed as percent of predicted value. For statistical analysis One-Way ANOVA,Unpaired Student's 't' test and Pearson's correlation coefficient test were performed, as required.Results: The mean percentage of predicted values of these lung function parameters in the healthyfemale subjects and newly diagnosed (B1) RA patients were within normal ranges. The mean percentageof predicted values of all the spirometric variables were significantly lower in the patients in B3compared to those in B2 (FVC p<0.01, FEV1 p<0.01), B1 (FVC p<0.05, FEV1 p<0.05, FEV1/FVC% p<0.001) and A (FVC p<0.01, FEV1 p<0.001, FEV1/FVC% p<0.001), except FEV1/FVC% in B3 vs B2 whichwas lower but nonsignificant. Again these same parameters were significantly lower in B2 in comparisonto B1 (FVC p<0.001, FEV1 p<0.001, FEV1/FVC% p< 0.001) and A (FVC p<0.001, FEV1 p<0.05, FEV1/FVC% p<0.001). In addition all the ventilatory variables had significant (p<0.001) negative correlationwith durations of disease except FVC in B1, which was significant at p<0.01 level. Conclusion: Thisstudy reveals that pulmonary functions may be lower in patients of RA and the lung function isinversely related to the duration of disease.Key Words: FVC; FEV1; Rheumatoid ArthritisDOI: 10.3329/jbsp.v5i1.5412J Bangladesh Soc Physiol. 2010 June; 5(1): 8-13
Preterm Delivery: Role of Zinc
Authors: Sultana Masuda , Jahan Nasim , Sultana Nayma , Quraishi Shamshad Begum , Chowdhury Tasrina Rabeya
Published: July 2010

Background: Preterm delivery is a very challenging obstetric complication in Bangladesh. Reducedserum zinc (Zn) concentration of the pregnant mother may have some role in causing preterm delivery.Objectives: To measure serum zinc level in preterm delivery mother and their respective neonates toobserve their status. Methods: This cross sectional study was carried out in the Department ofPhysiology, Sir Salimullah Medical College, Mitford Hospital, Dhaka, during the period of 1st Januaryto 31st December 2009. A total 136 subjects were included in this study, of whom 27 were full termdelivery mother with their respective neonates (group B), treated as control group and another 27were preterm delivery mothers with their respective neonates (group C), treated as study group. Ageranged of preterm and full term mother were from 20-40 years. Again, 28 non pregnant women with agerange from 20-30 years were taken as reference value (groupa A). Statistical analysis was done byusing appropriate method as applicable. Results: Mean serum zinc level was significantly (p<0.001)lower in preterm mother in comparison to that of full term mother and also in preterm neonates thanthat of full term neonates. Serum total protein and albumin were significantly (p<0.001) lower inpreterm mother than those of full term mother and also in preterm neonates than those of theirrespective mothers and full term neonates. Again, maternal serum zinc level showed positive correlationwith birth weight of neonates and also with zinc concentration of neonatal blood. Conclusions: Thepresent study revealed a lower level of serum zinc in pre-term delivery mother and their neonates.These hypozincemia may be responsible for low birth weight of the fetus.Key Words: Zinc; pretermDOI: 10.3329/jbsp.v5i1.5415J Bangladesh Soc Physiol. 2010 June; 5(1): 27-33
Henry Walter Bates—his life and contributions to biology
Authors: O'HARA JAMES E.
Published: July 2010

Henry Walter Bates was born in Leicester, England, on 8 February 1825. Early in life he developed a keen interest in natural history in general, and in insects in particular. He met and befriended Alfred Russel Wallace, and in 1848 the two embarked on a collecting expedition to the Amazon Valley. They soon parted company and thereafter collected separately in different areas of Amazonia. Bates returned to England 11 years later, in 1859. He was quick to embrace Darwin's and Wallace's theory of evolution by natural selection, and was one of the first to back the theory with evidence from the natural world. A case in point was Bates's theory of mimicry, which now bears his name. In 1863, his popular book The Naturalist on the River Amazons was published. Bates took the post of Assistant Secretary at the Royal Geographical Society of London in 1864 and continued in that position until his death in 1892. During that period he produced in his spare time a prodigious number of publications in systematic entomology, mostly on Lepidoptera and Coleoptera. Many of his works were accompanied by insightful discussions of zoogeography, thus distinguishing Bates as one of the more remarkable and progressive systematists of his time.
Fitting Ranked Linguistic Data with Two-Parameter Functions
Authors: Li Wentian , Miramontes Pedro , Cocho Germinal
Published: July 2010

It is well known that many ranked linguistic data can fit well with one-parameter models such as Zipf’s law for ranked word frequencies. However, in cases where discrepancies from the one-parameter model occur (these will come at the two extremes of the rank), it is natural to use one more parameter in the fitting model. In this paper, we compare several two-parameter models, including Beta function, Yule function, Weibull function—all can be framed as a multiple regression in the logarithmic scale—in their fitting performance of several ranked linguistic data, such as letter frequencies, word-spacings, and word frequencies. We observed that Beta function fits the ranked letter frequency the best, Yule function fits the ranked word-spacing distribution the best, and Altmann, Beta, Yule functions all slightly outperform the Zipf’s power-law function in word ranked- frequency distribution.
The Effect of Treadmill Training Pre-Exercise on Glutamate Receptor Expression in Rats after Cerebral Ischemia
Authors: Zhang Feng , Jia Jie , Wu Yi , Hu Yongshan , Wang Yang
Published: July 2010

Physical exercise has been demonstrated to be neuroprotective in both clinical and laboratory settings. However, the exact mechanism underlying this effect is unclear. Our study aimed to investigate whether pre-ischemic treadmill training could serve as a form of ischemic preconditioning in a rat model undergoing middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). Thirty-six rats were divided into three groups: a sham control group, a non-exercise with operation group and an exercise with operation group. After treadmill training, ischemia was induced by occluding the MCA for 2 h, followed by reperfusion. Half of the rats in each group were sacrificed for mRNA detection of mGluR5 and NR2B 80 min after occlusion. The remaining animals were evaluated for neurological deficits by behavioral scoring and then decapitated to assess the infarct volume. The mRNA expression of mGluR5 and NR2B was detected by real-time PCR. The results suggest that pre-ischemic treadmill training may induce brain ischemic tolerance by reducing the mRNA levels of mGluR5 and NR2B, and thus, the results indicate that physical exercise might be an effective method to establish ischemic preconditioning.
Molecular Epidemiological Study of Pyrazinamide-Resistance in Clinical Isolates of Mycobacterium tuberculosis from South India
Authors: Muthaiah Muthuraj , Jagadeesan Sridharan , Ayalusamy Nisha , Sreenivasan Manupriya , Prabhu Sambamurthy Sangamesvara , Muthuraj Usharani , Senthilkumar Kamatchiyammal , Veerappan Saroja
Published: July 2010

Pyrazinamide (PZA) has been in use for almost 50 years as a first-line drug for short-course chemotherapy against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. In this study, PCR mediated automated DNA sequencing is used to check the prevalence of PZA resistance among treatment failure cases of pulmonary tuberculosis. Out of 50 clinical isolates examined, 39 had mutations in the pncA gene that encodes Pyrazinamidase, an enzyme required to activate PZA. Of these, 31 (79.5%) were localized to three regions of pncA. We found two isolates with hitherto unreported mutation at amino acid 26 (Ala→Gly) of pncA.
Inhibition of HIV-1 Replication and Dimerization Interference by Dual Inhibitory RNAs
Authors: Sánchez-Luque Francisco J. , Reyes-Darias José A. , Puerta-Fernández Elena , Berzal-Herranz Alfredo
Published: July 2010

The 5’-untranslated region (5’UTR) of the HIV-1 RNA is an attractive target for engineered ribozymes due to its high sequence and structural conservation. This region encodes several conserved structural RNA domains essential in key processes of the viral replication and infection cycles. This paper reports the inhibitory effects of catalytic antisense RNAs composed of two inhibitory RNA domains: an engineered ribozyme targeting the 5’ UTR and a decoy or antisense domain of the dimerization initiation site (DIS). These chimeric molecules are able to cleave the HIV-1 5’UTR efficiently and prevent viral genome dimerization in vitro. Furthermore, catalytic antisense RNAs inhibited viral production up to 90% measured as p24 antigen levels in ex vivo assays. The use of chimeric RNA molecules targeting different domains represents an attractive antiviral strategy to be explored for the prevention of side effects from current drugs and of the rapid emergence of escape variants of HIV-1.
Lipophilic Compound-Mediated Gene Expression and Implication for Intervention in Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS)-Related Diseases: Mini-review
Authors: Nakamura Yukiko K. , Omaye Stanley T.
Published: July 2010

In addition to exhibiting antioxidant properties, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and vitamin E may modulate gene expression of endogenous antioxidant enzymes. Depending on cellular microenvironments, such modulation reflects either antioxidant or prooxidant outcomes. Although epidemiological/experimental studies have indicated that CLA and vitamin E have health promoting properties, recent findings from clinical trials have been inconclusive. Discrepancies between the results found from prospective studies and recent clinical trials might be attributed to concentration-dependent cellular microenvironment alterations. We give a perspective of possible molecular mechanisms of actions of these lipophilic compounds and their implications for interventions of reactive oxygen species (ROS)-related diseases.
Cannabinoid-Induced Hyperemesis: A Conundrum—From Clinical Recognition to Basic Science Mechanisms
Authors: Darmani Nissar A.
Published: July 2010

Cannabinoids are used clinically on a subacute basis as prophylactic agonist antiemetics for the prevention of nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapeutics. Cannabinoids prevent vomiting by inhibition of release of emetic neurotransmitters via stimulation of presynaptic cannabinoid CB1 receptors. Cannabis-induced hyperemesis is a recently recognized syndrome associated with chronic cannabis use. It is characterized by repeated cyclical vomiting and learned compulsive hot water bathing behavior. Although considered rare, recent international publications of numerous case reports suggest the contrary. The syndrome appears to be a paradox and the pathophysiological mechanism(s) underlying the induced vomiting remains unknown. Although some traditional hypotheses have already been proposed, the present review critically explores the basic science of these explanations in the clinical setting and provides more current mechanisms for the induced hyperemesis. These encompass: (1) pharmacokinetic factors such as long half-life, chronic exposure, lipid solubility, individual variation in metabolism/excretion leading to accumulation of emetogenic cannabinoid metabolites, and/or cannabinoid withdrawal; and (2) pharmacodynamic factors including switching of the efficacy of Δ9-THC from partial agonist to antagonist, differential interaction of Δ9-THC with Gs and Gi signal transduction proteins, CB1 receptor desensitization or downregulation, alterations in tissue concentrations of endocannabinoid agonists/inverse agonists, Δ9-THC-induced mobilization of emetogenic metabolites of the arachidonic acid cascade, brainstem versus enteric actions of Δ9-THC, and/or hypothermic versus hyperthermic actions of Δ9-THC. In addition, human and animal findings suggest that chronic exposure to cannabis may not be a prerequisite for the induction of vomiting but is required for the intensity of emesis.
Orientational Sampling Schemes Based on Four Dimensional Polytopes
Authors: Mamone Salvatore , Pileio Giuseppe , Levitt Malcolm H.
Published: July 2010

The vertices of regular four-dimensional polytopes are used to generate sets of uniformly distributed three-dimensional rotations, which are provided as tables of Euler angles. The spherical moments of these orientational sampling schemes are treated using group theory. The orientational sampling sets may be used in the numerical computation of solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance spectra, and in spherical tensor analysis procedures.
Symmetry breaking and structure of a mixture of nematic liquid crystals and anisotropic nanoparticles
Authors: Krasna Marjan , Cvetko Matej , Ambrožič Milan
Published: July 2010

Orientational ordering of a homogeneous mixture of uniaxial liquid crystalline (LC) molecules and magnetic nanoparticles (NPs) is studied using the Lebwohl–Lasher lattice model. We consider cases where NPs tend to be oriented perpendicularly to LC molecules due to elastic forces. We study domain-type configurations of ensembles, which are quenched from the isotropic phase. We show that for large enough concentrations of NPs the long range uniaxial nematic ordering is replaced by short range order exhibiting strong biaxiality. This suggests that the impact of NPs on orientational ordering of LCs for appropriate concentrations of NPs is reminiscent to the influence of quenched random fields which locally enforce a biaxial ordering.
A Guide to Web-Based Resources on Care of Older Adults for Nursing Educators, Students, and Clinicians
Authors: D’Amico Catherine O’Neill , Wexler Sharon Stahl , Palmer Janice L.
Published: July 2010

Numerous web-based resources are available to improve the knowledge of undergraduate students in assessing and providing care to older adults. These resources can be helpful to nurse educators regardless of the learning environment and to students and nurses who are working with older adults. This article describes some of the widely available online resources for teaching geriatric content to students and how to use them. The purpose of this article is to promote use of websites as teaching tools for nurse educators and as a resource to students and nurse clinicians.
Older Adult Mental Health
Authors: Puentes William J. , Bradway Christine K. , Aselage Melissa
Published: July 2010

Within the older adult population, certain idiosyncratic aspects of mental illness add to the challenges of helping clients manage these disorders. Older adults are more likely than younger populations to experience physiologically based comorbidities, a dynamic that further strains coping capacities. Barriers to the provision of comprehensive mental health nursing care for older adults include myths and stigmas about aging and mental health. Nurse educators are challenged to move students toward a more positive, empirically based approach to the care of older adults’ mental health. In this article, background information supporting the importance of working to improve students’ knowledge of and attitudes toward mental illness in older adults is provided. Specific teaching strategies in the areas of older adult mental health, dementia, and delirium are discussed. Resources to support the incorporation of these strategies into nursing curricula are described.
Teaching Strategies for Atypical Presentation of Illness in Older Adults
Authors: Gray-Miceli Deanna , Aselage Melissa , Mezey Mathy
Published: July 2010

Atypical presentation of illness is a phenomenon where “seeing is believing.” Expert geriatric nurses and clinicians know all too well the early signs and symptoms of this phenomenon, which frequently masquerades bacterial infections, pain, acute myocardial infarction, heart failure, or other serious medical ailments in older adults. Students, however, as novices to clinical practice, require interactive learning approaches to reflect on the patient’s illness presentations, help with developing the necessary skills to analyze and synthesize clinically relevant data, and witness resolution of an atypical presentation when found and treated. Use of a case study as an educational tool can facilitate critical thinking about a clinical problem, such as atypical presentation of illness, for students within a problem-based learning format. Furthermore, we highlight strategies for teaching students atypical presentation of illness with consideration of student learning preferences, which include visual, auditory, reading, and kinesthetic modes of learning.
Smart Carpet
Authors: Aud Myra A. , Abbott Carmen C. , Tyrer Harry W. , Neelgund Rohan Vasantha , Shriniwar Uday G. , Mohammed Ashrafuddin , Devarakonda Krishna Kishor
Published: July 2010

Cognitive deficits experienced by older adults with dementia limit use of wearable devices (necklaces or bracelets) that summon assistance after the older adult falls. To use these wearable devices, older adults must choose to wear them, remember how to use them, and be conscious after falling. Devices such as the Smart Carpet substitute pre-programmed or automatic functions for functions requiring deliberation and decision. After development of a Smart Carpet prototype, 11 volunteers participated in tests to measure sensitivity of sensors embedded in the Smart Carpet. The embedded sensors were not perceptible to the volunteers as they walked across the Smart Carpet and successfully detected gait characteristics. Findings confirmed the feasibility of fall detection. Measurements obtained of gait characteristics will be used in development of more advanced versions of the Smart Carpet.
Articular Contact Pressures of Meniscal Repair Techniques at Various Knee Flexion Angles
Authors: Flanigan David C. , Lin Fang , Koh Jason L. , Zhang Li-Qun
Published: July 2010

Articular cartilage injury can occur after meniscal repair with biodegradable implants. Previous contact pressure analyses of the knee have been based on the tibial side of the meniscus at limited knee flexion angles. We investigated articular contact pressures on the posterior femoral condyle with different knee flexion angles and surgical repair techniques. Medial meniscus tears were repaired in 30 fresh bovine knees. Knees were mounted on a 6-degrees-of-freedom jig and statically loaded to 200 N at 45°, 70°, 90°, and 110° of knee flexion under 3 conditions: intact meniscus, torn meniscus, and meniscus after repair. For each repair, 3 sutures or biodegradable implants were used. A pressure sensor was used to determine the contact area and peak pressure. Peak pressures over each implant position were measured. Peak pressure increased significantly as knee flexion increased in normal, injured, and repaired knees. The change in peak pressure in knees with implant repairs was significantly higher than suture repairs at all knee flexion angles. Articular contact pressure on the posterior femoral condyle increased with knee flexion. Avoidance of deep knee flexion angles postoperatively may limit increases in articular contact pressures and potential chondral injury.
Lateral Femoral Cutaneous Nerve Impairment After Direct Anterior Approach for Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Bhargava Tarun , Goytia Robin N. , Jones Lynne C. , Hungerford Marc W.
Published: July 2010

The anterior supine approach for total hip arthroplasty (THA) offers the advantage of operating through a true intravascular and intranervous plane, but it places the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve at risk. The purpose of this study was to identify the incidence of and impairment relating to injury of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve.

We performed a retrospective chart review of 81 hips undergoing anterior supine THA from November 2005 through May 2007 to determine operative time, estimated blood loss, fluoroscopic time, type of anesthesia used, intraoperative complications, and postoperative systemic and wound complications. Postoperative radiographs were evaluated for leg-length discrepancy, acetabular inclination and anteversion, and femoral stem position. Patients were reassessed at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years. At each visit, patients were questioned about numbness or paresthesias in the distribution of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve; if present, the patient outlined the area with a marking pen. This area was photographed, and data were collected. No hip had frank numbness; 12 hips (14.8%) had paresthesias. For those 12, symptoms resolved in 4 by 6 months, in 6 by 1 year, and in 10 (83.3%) by 2 years; 2 remained unresolved. No significant difference was found between patients with and without paresthesias or between patients with resolved or unresolved paresthesias. Impaired sensation did not appear to affect functional outcome or Harris Hip Score. Incision position, dissection plane, retractor placement, tension and soft tissue handling, and surgeon experience may affect incidence of injury to the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve.
How Many Orthopedic Surgeons Does It Take to Write a Research Article? 50 Years of Authorship Proliferation in and Internationalization of the Orthopedic Surgery Literature
Authors: Rahman Luthfur , Muirhead-Allwood Sarah K.
Published: July 2010

Publications are considered to indicate academic achievement and can lead to various rewards, including job opportunities and research funding. Recent years have seen a rising trend in the number of articles published, multiple authorship, and internationalization of the biomedical literature. The goal of this study was to analyze the trends in authorship over the past 50 years to determine whether the orthopedic literature parallels trends seen in other areas of the biomedical literature.

We performed an observational study with analysis of the number of authors and geographic origin of articles published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery British Volume (JBJS) and Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research (CORR). We analyzed 2776 articles (CORR, n=1809; JBJS, n=967) published between 1958 and 2008 at 10-year intervals. There has been a significant increase in the mean number of authors per article from 1.638 to 4.08 (
P
<.0001) and 1.633 to 4.540 (
P
<.0001) for CORR and JBJS, respectively between 1958 and 2008. There has been a significant increase in the international contribution to both journals (
P
<.0001). The number of countries contributing to articles increased from 5 to 39 and from 17 to 33 for CORR and JBJS, respectively.

These findings are similar to other areas of the biomedical literature. The reasons for this proliferation are multifactorial, including multicenter trials and inappropriate authorship. Guidelines for authorship and preparation of manuscripts from the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors or from individual journals are widely available, and every effort should be made to adhere to them to prevent inappropriate authorship proliferation in the future.
Kyphoplasty for the Treatment of Kümmell’s Disease
Authors: Yang Huilin , Gan Minfeng , Zou Jun , Mei Xin , Shen Xiaofeng , Wang Genlin , Chen Liang
Published: July 2010

The peripheral cortex of a vertebral body affected by Kümmell’s disease is not always intact, resulting in high risk for cement leakage. This study used modified techniques to avoid cement extravasation and dislodgment and investigated the feasibility and efficacy of kyphoplasty for treatment of Kümmell’s disease.

Between May 2006 and May 2008, 21 consecutive patients with Kümmell’s disease underwent kyphoplasty with modified techniques. Each patient was assessed preoperatively with standard examinations and imaged with dynamic radiographs, 3-dimensional computed tomography scans, and magnetic resonance imaging. A visual analog scale (VAS) and the Oswestry Disability Index were used to measure pain and disability pre- and postoperatively and at 6- and 12-month follow-up. One patient had cement leakage into the disk space but no clinical symptoms. There were no cases of cement dislodgment at follow-up. Comparison of the pre- vs postoperative VAS scores revealed significant differences (
P
<.05), whereas VAS scores at 6- vs 12-month follow-up were similar. The Oswestry Disability Index scores varied from 62.3%±15.1% preoperatively to 35.2%±12.1% postoperatively (
P
<.05). This improvement in scores was still present at 6- and 12-month follow-up. At 6- and 12-month follow-up, maintenance of height restoration and kyphotic deformity correction was found.

Kyphoplasty may be a relatively safe and effective method for treatment of Kümmell’s disease when modified techniques are used to prevent cement leakage and dislodgment.
The Effect of Computer Navigation on Blood Loss and Transfusion Rate in TKA
Authors: Schnurr Christoph , Csécsei György , Eysel Peer , König Dietmar Pierre
Published: July 2010

The blood loss that accompanies total knee arthroplasty (TKA) can be substantial. Many patients need perioperative blood transfusions. To avoid anemia and transfusion-related complications, the amount of blood loss and need for blood transfusions must be reduced. If standard jig instruments are used, an opening of the femoral medullary canal is required. This operative step has been recognized as a reason for elevated blood loss; it is not required if computer navigation is used. Hence, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of computer navigation on blood loss and transfusion rate in TKA.

The data of 500 consecutive patients undergoing TKA were analyzed, and patient- and operation-related data and blood loss and transfusion rates were recorded. The total blood loss was calculated by use of the Orthopedic Surgery Transfusion Hemoglobin European Overview (OSTHEO) formula. The average blood loss in the drainages (standard procedures, 880 mL; navigated procedures, 761 mL;
P
=.001) and the calculated total blood loss (standard procedures, 1375 mL; navigated procedures, 1242 mL;
P
=.036) were significantly reduced in the navigation group. The transfusion rate of navigated procedures was almost halved (standard procedures, 0.23 transfusions/patient; navigated procedures, 0.12 transfusions/patient;
P
=.035).

Our study demonstrated a reduced blood loss if TKAs were implanted by use of computer navigation. The diminished blood loss resulted in a 50% reduction of allogenic blood transfusions. Hence, computer navigation may be attractive for patients with a high risk of transfusions or uncommon blood groups. Prospective studies are required to verify this potential benefit of computer navigation.
Treatment of Distal Biceps Tendon Ruptures Using a Single-Incision Technique and a Bio-Tenodesis Screw
Authors: Silva Jason , Eskander Mark S. , Lareau Craig , Deangelis Nicola A.
Published: July 2010

No consensus exists in the literature on the optimal operative treatment method for distal biceps tendon ruptures. It is our hypothesis that a single-incision technique with a poly-L-lactide Bio-Tenodesis screw (Arthrex, Inc, Naples, Florida) is a safe and effective method for operative management of distal biceps tendon ruptures, with success and complication rates comparable to previous reports in the literature. This article describes a prospective case series of 29 consecutive patients (30 operations) managed by the same surgeon over 34 months. Average follow-up was 19.6 months. Two patients were lost to follow-up. Elbow range of motion (ROM) and strength; Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score; and SF-12 score were measured at various time points up to 2 years.

All patients had full extension and supination. Supination and flexion strength was at least 4/5 in all patients. Mean DASH, SF-12 Physical Component (PCS), and SF-12 Mental Component (MCS) scores were 5.86 (range, 0–16.67), 50.35 (range, 30.4–60.1), and 57.15 (range, 41.7–64.4), respectively. These scores are comparable to normative values reported by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Complication rates were similar to those previously reported in the literature. This type of fixation allowed for early mobilization of the operative arm. Our study demonstrates that use of a tenodesis screw for distal biceps repair results in DASH and SF-12 scores comparable to the norm for the general population with complications similar to those seen in past studies. In addition, biomechanical studies suggest that the repair is strong enough to allow early ROM, and the fixation technique may allow for more anatomic positioning of the distal biceps along the ulnar border of the bicipital tuberosity.
Intra-Articular Loose Body Removal During Hip Arthroscopy
Authors: Randelli Filippo , Randelli Pietro , Banci Lorenzo , Arrigoni Paolo
Published: July 2010

Loose bodies are common findings in hip arthroscopy. Loose body removal can be challenging because of the inner position of the acetabulum in which the loose bodies tend to accumulate. Moreover, the standard removal procedure of a considerable number of loose bodies may need a long time under limb traction, thereby increasing the risk of complications.

This article describes a new easy method for intra-articular loose body removal. A flexible endotracheal catheter, connected with suction system, is inserted via the anterior or midanterior portal. The catheter can easily be directed toward the inner parts of the joint in proximity of loose bodies. The suction system allows the loose body to be captured in contact with the tip of the catheter, which is then retrieved carrying the loose body outside the cannula.

We performed this technique on 4 consecutive patients with synovial chondromatosis. Patients were evaluated preoperatively and 1 month postoperatively by completing self-administered questionnaires. The technique effectiveness was evaluated in terms of overall surgery time, traction time, radiographic appearance of loose bodies left in situ, and postoperative complications. Mean overall surgery time and central time was 175 and 78 minutes, respectively. All patients showed improvement in the operated hip. All radiographs showed hip joint space free of osteochondral loose bodies. No patients reported paraesthesia, nerve palsy, or other postoperative complications. This technique allows for retrieval of a greater amount of loose bodies in a short time, reducing the possibility of undesirable complications.
Early Pleomorphic Hyalinizing Angiectatic Tumor: Precursor or Distinct Lesion?
Authors: Moretti Vincent M. , de la Cruz Michael , Brooks John S.J. , Lackman Richard D.
Published: July 2010

Early pleomorphic hyalinizing angiectatic tumor is a rare and recently described soft tissue lesion. Originally believed to be a precursor lesion to neoplastic pleomorphic hyalinizing angiectatic tumor, and possibly identical to hemosiderotic fibrohistiocytic lipomatous lesion/tumor, there have been recent suggestions that it is distinct from pleomorphic hyalinizing angiectatic tumor and is instead a reactive process. This article reports a case of a mass in the foot of a 45-year-old woman, which is 1 of only 15 published cases of early pleomorphic hyalinizing angiectatic tumor and is the first case to describe its radiographic appearance. Early pleomorphic hyalinizing angiectatic tumor predominantly develops in the fourth to sixth decades (average age, 45 years, range, 10–67 years). Females predominate 4 to 1. The foot/ankle is the most common site (67%). On magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the mass appeared inhomogeneously dark on T1-weighted sequences and inhomogeneously bright on fat-suppressed T2-weighted sequences. Forty-four percent of resected lesions recur locally, but no early pleomorphic hyalinizing angiectatic tumor lesion has ever metastasized. These clinical characteristics of early pleomorphic hyalinizing angiectatic tumors closely mirror those of hemosiderotic fibrohistiocytic lipomatous lesions/tumors and are dissimilar to those for classic pleomorphic hyalinizing angiectatic tumors. Therefore, although the 3 entities share several histologic features, we believe early pleomorphic hyalinizing angiectatic tumor is equivalent to hemosiderotic fibrohistiocytic lipomatous lesion/tumor and is not a true precursor to classic pleomorphic hyalinizing angiectatic tumor.
Turret Exostosis of the Talus
Authors: LeClere Lance E. , Riccio Anthony I. , Helmers Scott W. , Thompson Keith E.
Published: July 2010

Turret exostosis is a benign osteocartilagenous lesion believed to arise from reactive perisoteum following relatively mild trauma. This article presents an unusual case of a turret exostosis of the talar neck in a 12-year-old child. A healthy adolescent presented with a 5-month history of a firm, painless mass about the anteromedial aspect of the right ankle 1 month after suffering a mild twisting injury to the ankle. Radiographs demonstrated a benign-appearing bony mass within the soft tissues anterior to the right ankle overlying the talar neck. An excisional biopsy of the mass was performed and pathology was consistent with turret exostosis, demonstrating a central area of mature trabecular bone maturing via enchondral ossification with a thin hypocellular peripheral rim of cartilage. The absence of a periosteal layer, abundant “blue bone,” bizarre metaplastic cartilage, or marked cytologic atypia confirmed the diagnosis. The patient remains pain free with full ankle motion.

Reactive periosteal lesions are well-described entities, tending to occur with the greatest frequency in the small bones of the hand. Few cases of bizarre parosteal osteochondromatous proliferation in the metatarsals and phalanges of the toes have been reported. The current case represents the first account of a turret exostosis of the hindfoot, and the youngest patient with a histologically confirmed diagnosis. It further illustrates the manner in which this case exists along a continuous spectrum of reactive periosteal lesions. The clinical, radiographic, and histologic characteristics of reactive periosteal lesions are reviewed.
Relief of Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome with Correction of Multiplanar Spinal Deformity by Posterior Spinal Fusion
Authors: Marecek Geoffrey S. , Barsness Katherine A. , Sarwark John F.
Published: July 2010

Superior mesenteric artery syndrome is obstruction of the third portion of the duodenum by compression between the abdominal aorta and superior mesenteric artery. Pediatric orthopedists are familiar with this entity, as the association between superior mesenteric artery syndrome and spinal fusion or body casting has been well established. However, patients with spinal deformities usually experience superior mesenteric artery syndrome after orthopedic intervention, with rates after corrective spinal surgery reported between 0.5% and 2.4%.

Symptoms of superior mesenteric artery syndrome typically include nausea, bilious emesis, abdominal pain, early satiety, and anorexia. Initial treatment focuses on gastric decompression and maintaining euvolemia and electrolyte balance. The patient should receive enteral nutrition via nasojejunal tube or parenteral nutrition to allow for weight gain and subsequent resolution of the obstruction.

The superior mesenteric artery takes off from the duodenum at an angle of 45° to 60° in normal individuals. The third portion of the duodenum is suspended between these vessels by the ligament of Treitz. Any variation in this relationship that decreases the arteriomesenteric angle may induce obstruction. Specifically, lumbar hyperextension or hyperlordosis can traction the mesentery and vessels. Only 2 cases of superior mesenteric artery syndrome in patients with sagittal plane spinal deformity have been described in the literature. In patients with concomitant superior mesenteric artery syndrome and spinal deformity, correction of the deformity may help alleviate the obstruction and result in faster recovery. The contribution of spinal column deformity to the arteriomesenteric angle should not be overlooked.
Pediatric Pseudophakic Glaucoma Following Surgery for Isolated Childhood Cataract
Authors: Al-Dahmash Saad , Khan Arif O.
Published: July 2010

Background and Objective:

To report the incidence and risk factors for pseudophakic glaucoma in children who underwent surgery for non-traumatic cataract without other ocular structural abnormality.

Patients and Methods:

Institutional retrospective case series (1990 to 2003) of patients younger than 12 years of age who underwent surgery with primary posterior chamber intraocular lens (PC-IOL) implantation for non-traumatic cataract. Patients with post-surgical follow-up of less than 5 years, microcornea, persistent fetal vascular, and/or other significant anterior segment abnormality were excluded. Glaucoma was defined as intraocular pressure (IOP) of 28 mm Hg or greater on at least two separate occasions.

Results:

Of 489 pediatric pseudophakic eyes, 8 (1.6%) were diagnosed as having glaucoma (5 of 326 patients, 1.5%) an average of 15.8 months (median: 8 months; range: 2 to 60 months) after cataract surgery with an average IOP at diagnosis of 32.4 mm Hg (standard deviation [SD] = 3.6). Mean follow-up was 66.9 months (SD = 12.6). The other 481 pseudophakic eyes (not diagnosed as having glaucoma) had an average follow-up of 70.5 months (SD = 12.5). For the former group, the average age at cataract surgery was 49.6 months (SD = 21.6; median: 60.5 months; range: 12 to 62 months), whereas for the latter group it was 45.5 months (SD = 32.4; median: 37 months; range: 5 to 141 months). One eye from the former group and 27 eyes from the latter group had sulcus placement of an all-acrylic PC-IOL.

Conclusion:

Pediatric pseudophakic glaucoma was rare and had no obvious risk profile. Selection bias for PC-IOL placement favored eyes operated on after infancy (ie, after the period of highest risk for aphakic glaucoma). Most eyes were diagnosed as having glaucoma within 1 year of surgery, sooner than when most eyes are typically diagnosed as having aphakic glaucoma.
Anatomic and Visual Outcomes of Vitrectomy for Vitreomacular Traction Syndrome
Authors: Witkin Andre J. , Patron Mark E. , Castro Leonardo C. , Reichel Elias , Rogers Adam H. , Baumal Caroline R. , Duker Jay S.
Published: July 2010

Background and Objective:

To assess anatomic and visual outcomes after pars plana vitrectomy for vitreomacular traction syndrome.

Patients and Methods:

Charts of 746 patients who had vitrectomy surgery with membrane peel between January 2002 and December 2007 were reviewed. Vitreomacular traction syndrome (VMT) was diagnosed based on optical coherence tomography (OCT) appearance. Twenty eyes of 20 patients were found to have had vitrectomy surgery for VMT and were included in the study.

Results:

Mean visual acuity was 20/122 preoperatively and 20/68 postoperatively (
P
= .005). Mean foveal thickness was 404.00 μm preoperatively and 250.55 μm postoperatively (
P
= .001). A subgroup analysis was performed based on preoperative OCT appearance. Improvement in vision was not significant in eyes with lamellar separation between the inner and outer fovea (
P
= .379), but was significant in eyes with cystoid macular edema (
P
= .045) or perifoveal traction (
P
= .040).

Conclusion:

Overall, there was a significant improvement in visual acuity and central foveal thickness postoperatively. Eyes with lamellar separation of the inner and outer foveal layers preoperatively had worse visual results, whereas eyes with cystoid macular edema or perifoveal VMT had better visual results.
Back to the Future
Authors: Dabbagh Nada , Reo Rick
Published: July 2010

This chapter provides a developmental perspective on Web 2.0 and social software by tracing the historical, theoretical, and technological events of the last century that led to the emergence—or re-emergence, rather—of these powerful and transformative tools in a big way. The specific goals of the chapter are firstly, to describe the evolution of social software and related pedagogical constructs from pre- and early Internet networked learning environments to current Web 2.0 applications, and secondly, to discuss the theoretical underpinnings of social learning environments and the pedagogical implications and affordances of social software in e-learning contexts. The chapter ends with a social software use framework that can be used to facilitate the application of customized and personalized e-learning experiences in higher education.
Learner-Generated Contexts
Authors: Luckin Rose , Clark Wilma , Garnett Fred , Whitworth Andrew , Akass Jon , Cook John , Day Peter , Ecclesfield Nigel , Hamilton Tom , Robertson Judy
Published: July 2010

In this chapter the authors present the concept of Learner-Generated Contexts as a potential framework through which the more effective use of technology to support learning might be supported and engendered. In particular, they concentrate on the theoretical grounding for consideration of Learner-Generated Contexts as a context-based model and organizing principle for designing learning and as a means of elucidating what institutional practices might support or retard their development. In so doing, the authors offer a model for the learning–teaching process based upon the Russian concept of “obuchenie” and a reconsideration of pedagogic design based upon a combinatory model termed the “PAH continuum.”
Teaching and Learning Information Technology through the Lens of Web 2.0
Authors: Frydenberg Mark
Published: July 2010

Recent advances in Internet technologies, combined with a society that relies upon them, have brought about a new toolset for working and sharing on the World Wide Web. The term “Web 2.0” suggests an updated version of the Web, but really names a new genre of web applications, along with the technologies they rely on and the social content contain. Web 2.0 marks the evolution from a “one-way” Web filled with static content to a dynamic “read/write” Web that has become a platform promoting collaboration and communication, linking people as well as the digital information they share. This chapter applies a connectivist learning approach to creating authentic learning spaces for teaching Web 2.0 concepts in a first-year college information technology course. It suggests best practices for fostering learning by using Web 2.0 tools to create connections with people, ideas, and technology.
Mobile 2.0
Authors: Pettit John , Kukulska-Hulme Agnes
Published: July 2010

Many practitioners are looking for ways to bring the vitality of Mobile 2.0—for example, social networking via a mobile phone (cellphone), or photo sharing on a mobile blog—into formal learning and teaching. But they face a complex and even paradoxical challenge: how can they harness that vitality without stifling its most distinctive feature—the fact that it is user led? This chapter begins with an analysis of that paradox as a foundation for understanding the challenges that practitioners face now and in the future. Drawing on data from interviews with six experienced tertiary practitioners, the authors describe and analyze a number of examples that point to the particular power of mobile devices to blur formal and informal activity in people’s lives. The aim is to look beyond the hype around innovations in mobile devices and connectivity to focus on the opportunities for practitioners to bend the arc of Mobile 2.0 to the needs of their learners.
Podcasting in Distance Learning
Authors: McLoughlin Catherine , Lee Mark J. W. , Tynan Belinda
Published: July 2010

This chapter explores how podcasting can be used to support and enhance the student experience, with a focus on tertiary-level distance education contexts. It begins with a review of the rationale behind the use of podcasting and digital audio for distance teaching and learning, including a consideration of the unique features and attributes of podcasting that differentiate it from older or pre-existing educational technologies. The authors then showcase a number of examples involving the use of podcasting in distance e-learning and blended learning, drawn from the exemplary practices of educators across the globe. Discussion of these exemplars centers around four major themes: increasing learner motivation and engagement; facilitating and enhancing learning outcomes; impacting on mobility and lifestyle learning; and fostering a sense of community, with the aim of contributing to the establishment of an evidence-based case about the benefits of podcasting in relation to addressing the needs of distance education students, as well as illuminating some of the problems and barriers that exist. The chapter concludes with a number of recommendations for distance educators.