bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Model-Driven Approach for 3D Modeling of Pylon from Airborne LiDAR Data
Authors: Li Qingquan , Chen Zhipeng , Hu Qingwu
Published: September 2015

Reconstructing three-dimensional model of the pylon from LiDAR (Light Detection And Ranging) point clouds automatically is one of the key techniques for facilities management GIS system of high-voltage nationwide transmission smart grid. This paper presents a model-driven three-dimensional pylon modeling (MD3DM) method using airborne LiDAR data. We start with constructing a parametric model of pylon, based on its actual structure and the characteristics of point clouds data. In this model, a pylon is divided into three parts: pylon legs, pylon body and pylon head. The modeling approach mainly consists of four steps. Firstly, point clouds of individual pylon are detected and segmented from massive high-voltage transmission corridor point clouds automatically. Secondly, an individual pylon is divided into three relatively simple parts in order to reconstruct different parts with different strategies. Its position and direction are extracted by contour analysis of the pylon body in this stage. Thirdly, the geometric features of the pylon head are extracted, from which the head type is derived with a SVM (Support Vector Machine) classifier. After that, the head is constructed by seeking corresponding model from pre-build model library. Finally, the body is modeled by fitting the point cloud to planes. Experiment results on several point clouds data sets from China Southern high-voltage nationwide transmission grid from Yunnan Province to Guangdong Province show that the proposed approach can achieve the goal of automatic three-dimensional modeling of the pylon effectively.
Validation of a Forage Production Index (FPI) Derived from MODIS fCover Time-Series Using High-Resolution Satellite Imagery: Methodology, Results and Opportunities
Authors: Roumiguié Antoine , Jacquin Anne , Sigel Grégoire , Poilvé Hervé , Hagolle Olivier , Daydé Jean
Published: September 2015

An index-based insurance solution was developed to estimate and monitor near real-time forage production using the indicator Forage Production Index (FPI) as a surrogate of the grassland production. The FPI corresponds to the integral of the fraction of green vegetation cover derived from moderate spatial resolution time series images and was calculated at the 6 km × 6 km scale. An upscaled approach based on direct validation was used that compared FPI with field-collected biomass data and high spatial resolution (HR) time series images. The experimental site was located in the Lot and Aveyron departments of southwestern France. Data collected included biomass ground measurements from grassland plots at 28 farms for the years 2012, 2013 and 2014 and HR images covering the Lot department in 2013 (n = 26) and 2014 (n = 22). Direct comparison with ground-measured yield led to good accuracy (R2 = 0.71 and RMSE = 14.5%). With indirect comparison, the relationship was still strong (R2 ranging from 0.78 to 0.93) and informative. These results highlight the effect of disaggregation, the grassland sampling rate, and irregularity of image acquisition in the HR time series. In advance of Sentinel-2, this study provides valuable information on the strengths and weaknesses of a potential index-based insurance product from HR time series images.
New Opportunities in Mid-Infrared Emission Control
Authors: Geiser Peter
Published: September 2015

Tunable laser absorption spectroscopy (TLAS) has been well accepted as a preferred measurement technique for many industrial applications in recent years, especially for in situ applications. Previously, mainly near-infrared lasers have been used in TLAS sensors. The advent of compact mid-infrared light sources, like quantum cascade lasers and interband cascade lasers, has made it possible to detect gases with better sensitivity by utilizing fundamental absorption bands and to measure species that do not have any absorption lines in the near-infrared spectral region. This technological advancement has allowed developing new sensors for gases, such as nitric oxide and sulfur dioxide, for industrial applications. Detection limits of better than 1 ppm·m for nitric oxide and better than 10 ppm·m for sulfur dioxide are demonstrated in field experiments.
Development of a Rapid LC-MS/MS Method for the Determination of Emerging Fusarium mycotoxins Enniatins and Beauvericin in Human Biological Fluids
Authors: Serrano Ana , Capriotti Anna , Cavaliere Chiara , Piovesana Susy , Samperi Roberto , Ventura Salvatore , Laganà Aldo
Published: September 2015

A novel method for the simultaneous determination of enniatins A, A1, B and B1 and beauvericin, both in human urine and plasma samples, was developed and validated. The method consisted of a simple and easy pretreatment, specific for each matrix, followed by solid phase extraction (SPE) and detection by high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry with an electrospray ion source. The optimized SPE method was performed on graphitized carbon black cartridges after suitable dilution of the extracts, which allowed high mycotoxin absolute recoveries (76%–103%) and the removal of the major interferences from the matrix. The method was extensively evaluated for plasma and urine samples separately, providing satisfactory results in terms of linearity (R2 of 0.991–0.999), process efficiency (>81%), trueness (recoveries between 85% and 120%), intra-day precision (relative standard deviation, RSD < 18%), inter-day precision (RSD < 21%) and method quantification limits (ranging between 20 ng·L−1 and 40 ng·L−1 in plasma and between 5 ng·L−1 and 20 ng·L−1 in urine). Finally, the highly sensitive validated method was applied to some urine and plasma samples from different donors.
Evapotranspiration in the Nile Basin: Identifying Dynamics and Drivers, 2002–2011
Authors: Alemu Henok , Kaptué Armel , Senay Gabriel , Wimberly Michael , Henebry Geoffrey
Published: September 2015

Analysis of the relationship between evapotranspiration (ET) and its natural and anthropogenic drivers is critical in water-limited basins such as the Nile. The spatiotemporal relationships of ET with rainfall and vegetation dynamics in the Nile Basin during 2002–2011 were analyzed using satellite-derived data. Non-parametric statistics were used to quantify ET-rainfall interactions and trends across land cover types and subbasins. We found that 65% of the study area (2.5 million km2) showed significant (p < 0.05) positive correlations between monthly ET and rainfall, whereas 7% showed significant negative correlations. As expected, positive ET-rainfall correlations were observed over natural vegetation, mixed croplands/natural vegetation, and croplands, with a few subbasin-specific exceptions. In particular, irrigated croplands, wetlands and some forests exhibited negative correlations. Trend tests revealed spatial clusters of statistically significant trends in ET (6% of study area was negative; 12% positive), vegetation greenness (24% negative; 12% positive) and rainfall (11% negative; 1% positive) during 2002–2011. The Nile Delta, Ethiopian highlands and central Uganda regions showed decline in ET while central parts of Sudan, South Sudan, southwestern Ethiopia and northeastern Uganda showed increases. Except for a decline in ET in central Uganda, the detected changes in ET (both positive and negative) were not associated with corresponding changes in rainfall. Detected declines in ET in the Nile delta and Ethiopian highlands were found to be attributable to anthropogenic land degradation, while the ET decline in central Uganda is likely caused by rainfall reduction.
Preparative semiconductor photoredox catalysis: An emerging theme in organic synthesis
Authors: Manley David W , Walton John C
Published: September 2015

Heterogeneous semiconductor photoredox catalysis (SCPC), particularly with TiO2, is evolving to provide radically new synthetic applications. In this review we describe how photoactivated SCPCs can either (i) interact with a precursor that donates an electron to the semiconductor thus generating a radical cation; or (ii) interact with an acceptor precursor that picks up an electron with production of a radical anion. The radical cations of appropriate donors convert to neutral radicals usually by loss of a proton. The most efficient donors for synthetic purposes contain adjacent functional groups such that the neutral radicals are resonance stabilized. Thus, ET from allylic alkenes and enol ethers generated allyl type radicals that reacted with 1,2-diazine or imine co-reactants to yield functionalized hydrazones or benzylanilines. SCPC with tertiary amines enabled electron-deficient alkenes to be alkylated and furoquinolinones to be accessed. Primary amines on their own led to self-reactions involving C–N coupling and, with terminal diamines, cyclic amines were produced. Carboxylic acids were particularly fruitful affording C-centered radicals that alkylated alkenes and took part in tandem addition cyclizations producing chromenopyrroles; decarboxylative homo-dimerizations were also observed. Acceptors initially yielding radical anions included nitroaromatics and aromatic iodides. The latter led to hydrodehalogenations and cyclizations with suitable precursors. Reductive SCPC also enabled electron-deficient alkenes and aromatic aldehydes to be hydrogenated without the need for hydrogen gas.
L’insistance de Dieu
Authors: Caputo John D.
Published: September 2015

Plaidoyer à la fois pour une théologie du « peut-être » contre une religion rassurante, pour l’inquiétude et l’attente d’un événement « à venir » contre une religion qui offre réponses et certitudes, pour la contingence des croyances contre les vérités éternelles des dogmes, ce deuxième chapitre de l’ouvrage éponyme de Caputo déploie quelques éléments d’une théologie déconstructiviste ou plus précisément propose une déconstruction de la théologie. « L’insistance de Dieu » est définie comme l’appel insistant que Dieu adresse à l’homme, à défaut duquel il meurt. Dans la mesure où nous nous exposons au trouble que cet appel produit en nous, la prière devient avec Caputo l’écart entre l’existence de Dieu et son insistance. Dans ce cadre, théisme et athéisme ne sont que les deux aspects d’une même tentative d’échapper à ce trouble de l’appel d’un Dieu qui n’existe pas mais qui insiste, un Dieu dont le nom est le métonyme de l’événement. Maitre Eckhart, Angelus Silesius, Kiekegaard et Derrida sont quelques-uns des auteurs convoqués pour indiquer la voie de cette théologie.
Il vient. Dialogue avec John D. Caputo et sa théorie de l’événement
Authors: Causse Jean-Daniel
Published: September 2015

L’événement et l’attente sont au centre de la philosophie de la religion de John D. Caputo. Dieu est ainsi le nom de ce qui vient, ce qui est toujours à venir. C’est pourquoi Caputo s’écarte d’emblée du thème de la mort de Dieu pour lui préférer celui de la naissance qu’il pense plus conforme à une pensée de l’événement. Jean-Daniel Causse * reprend d’abord cette question en indiquant comment le christianisme se construit sur une double absence ou une double kénose constitutive de sa compréhension de l’événement. Il relève et discute ensuite trois aspects de la structure de l’événement chez Caputo – l’événement est impossible à prévoir, il est traumatique, il suppose d’être accueilli – avant de réfléchir à la manière dont le messianisme christologique, proche et distinct du messianique de Derrida, permet d’articuler trois temps du verbe venir  : il est venu, il vient, il viendra.
John D. Caputo, penseur de l’éducation : philosophie, hantologie, théologie
Authors: Nault François
Published: September 2015

François Nault * examine quelques propositions récentes de John D. Caputo concernant l’éducation. Cet exercice fournit l’occasion d’aborder certaines thématiques privilégiées ces dernières années par Caputo et d’entrer en contact avec le style ou encore la méthode de Caputo, une méthode qui n’a évidemment rien de méthodique mais constitue plutôt une véritable aventure de la pensée. La question d’une « théologie de l’éducation » est soulevée en lien avec celle de l’inscription d’une théologie radicale dans l’Université.
SMILE Procedures With Four Different Cap Thicknesses for the Correction of Myopia and Myopic Astigmatism
Authors: Güell Jose L. , Verdaguer Paula , Mateu-Figueras Gloria , Elies Daniel , Gris Oscar , El Husseiny Mostafa A. , Manero Felicidad , Morral Mercè
Published: September 2015

PURPOSE:

To study the feasibility of performing myopic femtosecond small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) with four different cap thicknesses (130, 140, 150, and 160
μ
m).

METHODS:

In this retrospective, comparative, non-randomized clinical trial, a refractive lenticule of intrastromal corneal tissue was cut with the VisuMax femtosecond laser system (Carl Zeiss Meditec AG, Jena, Germany) using different depths of the non-refractive lenticule cut. Manifest refraction, uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), and Objective Scattering Index (OSI) were evaluated. Minimum follow-up time was 1 year.

RESULTS:

Ninety-four eyes of 47 patients with myopia with (14 patients) and without (33 patients) astigmatism were treated. One year after the surgery, mean log-MAR UDVA, logMAR CDVA, SE, and OSI were 0.07 ± 0.12, 0.01 ± 0.37, 0.07 ± 0.57, and 0.88 ± 0.17, respectively (
P <
.05). There were no significant statistical differences in logMAR UDVA, logMAR CDVA, SE, or OSI (
P >
.05) variables when the different groups were compared for the same periods of time.

CONCLUSIONS:

No differences in visual acuity, refractive outcomes in optical visual quality, or complications were observed when using SMILE at four different depths.

[
J Refract Surg.
2015;31(9):580–585.]
Changes in Corneal Transparency After Cross-linking for Progressive Keratoconus: Long-term Follow-up
Authors: Alnawaiseh Maged , Rosentreter André , Eveslage Maria , Eter Nicole , Zumhagen Lars
Published: September 2015

PURPOSE:

To determine long-term changes in corneal transparency after riboflavin-ultraviolet A-induced corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL).

METHODS:

Charts and anterior segment data of patients after CXL for progressive keratoconus were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were examined using the Scheimpflug-based Pentacam corneal densitometry module (Oculus Optikgeräte, Wetzlar, Germany) before CXL and at five postoperative follow-up visits: 1 to 3, 3 to 6, 6 to 12, 12 to 24, and 24 to 36 months.

RESULTS:

Forty-two eyes of 28 patients (mean age: 27.9 ± 8.6 years) were included. Total corneal light backscatter was higher 1 to 3 months after CXL than before CXL (
P
< .001). There were significant differences, especially in the anterior (
P
< .001) and central (
P
< .001) layer at total diameter and posterior layer (
P
= .014) and the three central annuli at total corneal thickness (0 to 2 mm:
P
< .001; 2 to 6 mm:
P
< .001; 6 to 10 mm:
P
= .002). Total corneal light backscatter at total corneal thickness and total diameter faded over time following CXL. The backscatter was significantly lower 24 to 36 months after CXL than before CXL (
P
< .001).

CONCLUSIONS:

Corneal densitometry peaks in the first months after CXL and returns to preoperative values approximately 1 year after CXL. Two years after CXL, corneal densitometry reaches values obtained for healthy, untreated corneas, thus achieving an improvement in corneal clarity over untreated keratoconic corneas.

[
J Refract Surg.
2015;31(9):614–618.]
Everolimus in the Treatment of Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Royce Melanie E. , Osman Diaa
Published: September 2015

The discovery of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) molecular pathway has brought insight into its vital role in breast cancer pathogenesis. Several clinical trials have shown that the mTOR inhibitor everolimus could improve patient outcomes in several subtypes of breast cancer, including hormone receptor–positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor–negative metastatic disease that has progressed after prior endocrine therapy. This review summarizes findings from clinical trials that have demonstrated the benefit of everolimus in metastatic breast cancer and highlights some new research directions utilizing everolimus.
BRAF Mutation in Colorectal Cancer: An Update
Authors: Barras David
Published: September 2015

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is still one of the deadliest cancer-related diseases. About 10% of CRC patients are characterized by a mutation in the B-Raf proto-oncogene serine/threonine kinase ( BRAF) gene resulting in a valine-to-glutamate change at the residue 600 (V600E). This mutation is also present in more than 60% of melanoma patients. BRAF inhibitors were developed and found to improve patient survival; however, most patients at the end of the track ultimately develop resistance to these inhibitors. Melanoma patients benefit from the combination of BRAF inhibitors with mitogen/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (MEK) inhibitors, among others. Unfortunately, colorectal patients do not respond much efficiently, which suggests different resistance mechanisms between the two cancer types. This review aims at shedding light on recent discoveries that improve our understanding of the BRAF mutation biology in CRC.
Tissue Factor–Factor VII Complex as a Key Regulator of Ovarian Cancer Phenotypes
Authors: Koizume Shiro , Miyagi Yohei
Published: September 2015

Tissue factor (TF) is an integral membrane protein widely expressed in normal human cells. Blood coagulation factor VII (fVII) is a key enzyme in the extrinsic coagulation cascade that is predominantly secreted by hepatocytes and released into the bloodstream. The TF–fVII complex is aberrantly expressed on the surface of cancer cells, including ovarian cancer cells. This procoagulant complex can initiate intracellular signaling mechanisms, resulting in malignant phenotypes. Cancer tissues are chronically exposed to hypoxia. TF and fVII can be induced in response to hypoxia in ovarian cancer cells at the gene expression level, leading to the autonomous production of the TF–fVII complex. Here, we discuss the roles of the TF–fVII complex in the induction of malignant phenotypes in ovarian cancer cells. The hypoxic nature of ovarian cancer tissues and the roles of TF expression in endometriosis are discussed. Arguments will be extended to potential strategies to treat ovarian cancers based on our current knowledge of TF–fVII function.
Urinary Neutrophil Gelatinase-Associated Lipocalin to Monitor Lupus Nephritis Disease Activity
Authors: Susianti Hani , Wijaya Jullyanny W. , Rastini Ati , Handono Kusworini , Gunawan Atma , Kalim Handono
Published: September 2015

Background

This study was conducted to determine whether there is an association between urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (uNGAL) and urinary transforming growth factor-β1 (uTGF-β1) with lupus nephritis (LN) disease activity.

Methods

Urine samples from 18 LN patients were collected every month for six months then examined for uNGAL, uTGF-β1, and renal domain Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) score.

Results

The uNGAL levels were significantly different between active and inactive LN (P < 0.05). uTGF-β1 levels were not different between active and inactive LN (P > 0.05). There was a significant correlation between uNGAL levels and renal domain SLEDAI score (r= 0.417, P < 0.05). There was no correlation between uTGF-β1 levels and renal domain SLEDAI score (r = 0.031, P > 0.05).

Conclusion

uNGAL is better than uTGF-β1 for differentiation of active and inactive LN. uNGAL can be considered as a biomarker to monitor LN disease activity.
Pneumocystis JiroveciiPneumonia in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients: Risks and Prophylaxis Recommendations
Authors: Mori Shunsuke , Sugimoto Mineharu
Published: September 2015

Pneumocystis jirovecii infection causes fulminant interstitial pneumonia ( Pneumocystis pneumonia, PCP) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who are receiving biological and/or nonbiological antirheumatic drugs. Recently, we encountered a PCP outbreak among RA outpatients at our institution. Hospital-acquired, person-to-person transmission appears to be the most likely mode of this cluster of P. jirovecii infection. Carriage of P. jirovecii seems a time-limited phenomenon in immunocompetent hosts, but in RA patients receiving antirheumatic therapy, clearance of this organism from the lungs is delayed. Carriers among RA patients can serve as sources and reservoirs of P. jirovecii infection for other susceptible patients in outpatient facilities. Development of PCP is a matter of time in such carriers. Considering the poor survival rates of PCP cases, prophylactic antibiotics should be considered for RA patients who are scheduled to receive antirheumatic therapy. Once a new case of PCP occurs, we should take prompt action not only to treat the PCP patient but also to prevent other patients from becoming new carriers of P. jirovecii. Short-term prophylaxis with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole is effective in controlling P. jirovecii infection and preventing future outbreaks of PCP among RA patients.
Promotion and Reporting of Research from Resource-Limited Settings
Authors: Siriwardhana Chesmal
Published: September 2015

Driven by global burden of disease and inequalities in health care, research activities in resource-poor settings have radically increased. However, a corresponding increase in reporting of research from these settings has not been observed. This article critically explores the importance of promoting and reporting of health research from resource-poor settings, current trends, and practices, and discusses the key challenges faced by researchers from such settings. These challenges include changing face of open-access (OA) and online publishing, the threat of predatory OA journals, authorship and international partnership ethics, attitudinal problems hindering research reporting, and a lack of alternative publishing spaces. A combined, decisive effort is needed to bridge the gap between research activity and reporting in resource-poor settings.
Comparison of Nested Polymerase Chain Reaction and Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction with Parasitological Methods for Detection of Strongyloides stercoralis in Human Fecal Samples
Authors: Sharifdini Meysam , Mirhendi Hossein , Ashrafi Keyhan , Hosseini Mostafa , Mohebali Mehdi , Khodadadi Hossein , Kia Eshrat Beigom
Published: September 2015

This study was performed to evaluate nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and real-time PCR methods for detection of Strongyloides stercoralis in fecal samples compared with parasitological methods. A total of 466 stool samples were examined by conventional parasitological methods (formalin ether concentration [FEC] and agar plate culture [APC]). DNA was extracted using an in-house method, and mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 and 18S ribosomal genes were amplified by nested PCR and real-time PCR, respectively. Among 466 samples, 12.7% and 18.2% were found infected with S. stercoralis by FEC and APC, respectively. DNA of S. stercoralis was detected in 18.9% and 25.1% of samples by real-time PCR and nested PCR, respectively. Considering parasitological methods as the diagnostic gold standard, the sensitivity and specificity of nested PCR were 100% and 91.6%, respectively, and that of real-time PCR were 84.7% and 95.8%, respectively. However, considering sequence analyzes of the selected nested PCR products, the specificity of nested PCR is increased. In general, molecular methods were superior to parasitological methods. They were more sensitive and more reliable in detection of S. stercoralis in comparison with parasitological methods. Between the two molecular methods, the sensitivity of nested PCR was higher than real-time PCR.
Retrospective Derivation and Validation of an Automated Electronic Search Algorithm to Identify Post operative Cardiovascular and Thromboembolic Complications
Authors: Tien M. , Kashyap R. , Wilson G. A. , Hernandez-Torres V. , Jacob A. K. , Schroeder D. R. , Mantilla C. B.
Published: September 2015

Background: With increasing numbers of hospitals adopting electronic medical records, electronic search algorithms for identifying postoperative complications can be invaluable tools to expedite data abstraction and clinical research to improve patient outcomes.

Objectives: To derive and validate an electronic search algorithm to identify postoperative thromboembolic and cardiovascular complications such as deep venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, or myocardial infarction within 30 days of total hip or knee arthroplasty.

Methods: A total of 34 517 patients undergoing total hip or knee arthroplasty between January 1, 1996 and December 31, 2013 were identified. Using a derivation cohort of 418 patients, several iterations of a free-text electronic search were developed and refined for each complication. Subsequently, the automated search algorithm was validated on an independent cohort of 2 857 patients, and the sensitivity and specificities were compared to the results of manual chart review.

Results: In the final derivation subset, the automated search algorithm achieved a sensitivity of 91% and specificity of 85% for deep vein thrombosis, a sensitivity of 96% and specificity of 100% for pulmonary embolism, and a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 95% for myocardial infarction. When applied to the validation cohort, the search algorithm achieved a sensitivity of 97% and specificity of 99% for deep vein thrombosis, a sensitivity of 97% and specificity of 100% for pulmonary embolism, and a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 99% for myocardial infarction.

Conclusions: The derivation and validation of an electronic search strategy can accelerate the data abstraction process for research, quality improvement, and enhancement of patient care, while maintaining superb reliability compared to manual review.

Citation: Tien M, Kashyap R, Wilson GA, Hernandez-Torres V, Jacob AK, Schroeder DR, Mantilla CB. Retrospective Derivation and Validation of an Automated Electronic Search Algorithm to Identify Postoperative Thromboembolic and Cardiovascular Complications. Appl Clin Inform 2015; 6: 565–576

http://dx.doi.org/10.4338/ACI-2015-03-RA-0026
Two Case Reports of Antrorhinoliths
Authors: Swain Santosh Kumar , Sahoo Ranjan Kumar , Sahu Mahesh Chandra
Published: September 2015

Antrorhinolith is an uncommon nasal mineralized mass of nasal cavity invading into maxillary sinus. Most antrorhinoliths are small and asymptomatic, caused by calcification of a nidus and are detected incidentally on radiological examination. Sometimes they present symptoms like pain and foul smelling nasal discharge. Here, we are presenting two cases of antrorhinoliths. One was found after endoscopic sinus surgery and second one was seen in patient with prolonged use of topiramate medication. In all these two cases, radiological examination revealed a discrete bony density in the nasal cavity and maxillary sinus which was blocking the ostiomeatal complex. The bony mass was removed endoscopically from the nasal cavity and maxillary sinus with drainage of discharge and debris from the sinuses. Histopathological examination revealed an antrolith with bony nidus and calcium deposited around it.

How to cite this article

Swain SK, Sahoo RK, Sahu MC. Two Case Reports of Antrorhinoliths. Int J Otorhinolaryngol Clin 2014;6(3):118120.
Petrous Ridge Meningioma Detection in a Patient Treated for Cancer Tongue
Authors: El-Anwar Mohammad W , Elsheikh Ezzedden , Elnashar Ismail
Published: September 2015

We report a previously unreported case of a 59-year-old ex-smoker male with association between tongue squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and petrous ridge meningioma. Tongue SCC was successfully treated by partial glossectomy with left functional neck dissection, 6 months later, petrous ridge meningioma was discovered and gamma knife treatment was undertaken for it.

How to cite this article

El-Anwar MW, Elsheikh E, Elnashar I. Petrous Ridge Meningioma Detection in a Patient Treated for Cancer Tongue. Int J Otorhinolaryngol Clin 2014;6(3):127-129.
Quantitative assessment of atmospheric emissions of toxic heavy metals from anthropogenic sources in China: historical trend, spatial distribution, uncertainties, and control policies
Authors: Tian H. Z. , Zhu C. Y. , Gao J. J. , Cheng K. , Hao J. M. , Wang K. , Hua S. B. , Wang Y. , Zhou J. R.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. Anthropogenic atmospheric emissions of typical toxic heavy metals have caused worldwide concern due to their adverse effects on human health and the ecosystem. By determining the best available representation of time-varying emission factors with S-shape curves, we establish the multiyear comprehensive atmospheric emission inventories of 12 typical toxic heavy metals (Hg, As, Se, Pb, Cd, Cr, Ni, Sb, Mn, Co, Cu, and Zn) from primary anthropogenic activities in China for the period of 1949–2012 for the first time. Further, we allocate the annual emissions of these heavy metals in 2010 at a high spatial resolution of 0.5° × 0.5° grid with ArcGIS methodology and surrogate indexes, such as regional population and gross domestic product (GDP). Our results show that the historical emissions of Hg, As, Se, Cd, Cr, Ni, Sb, Mn, Co, Cu, and Zn, during the period of 1949–2012, increased by about 22–128 times at an annual average growth rate of 5.1–8.0 %, reaching about 526.9–22 319.6 t in 2012. Nonferrous metal smelting, coal combustion of industrial boilers, brake and tyre wear, and ferrous metal smelting represent the dominant sources of heavy metal emissions. In terms of spatial variation, the majority of emissions are concentrated in relatively developed regions, especially for the northern, eastern, and southern coastal regions. In addition, because of the flourishing nonferrous metal smelting industry, several southwestern and central-southern provinces play a prominent role in some specific toxic heavy metals emissions, like Hg in Guizhou and As in Yunnan. Finally, integrated countermeasures are proposed to minimize the final toxic heavy metals discharge on account of the current and future demand of energy-saving and pollution reduction in China.
Interannual variability of the Mediterranean trophic regimes from ocean color satellites
Authors: Mayot N. , D'Ortenzio F. , Ribera d'Alcalà M. , Lavigne H. , Claustre H.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. D'Ortenzio and Ribera d'Alcalà (2009, DR09 hereafter) divided the Mediterranean Sea into "bioregions" based on the climatological seasonality (phenology) of phytoplankton. Here we investigate the interannual variability of this bioregionalization. Using 16 years of available ocean color observations (i.e. SeaWiFS and MODIS), we analyzed the spatial distribution of the DR09 trophic regimes on an annual basis. Additionally, we identified new trophic regimes, with seasonal cycles of phytoplankton biomass different from the DR09 climatological description and named "Anomalous". Overall, the classification of the Mediterranean phytoplankton phenology proposed by DR09 (i.e. "No Bloom", "Intermittently", "Bloom" and "Coastal"), is confirmed to be representative of most of the Mediterranean phytoplankton phenologies. The mean spatial distribution of these trophic regimes (i.e. bioregions) over the 16 years studied is also similar to the one proposed by DR09. But at regional scale some annual differences, in their spatial distribution and in the emergence of "Anomalous" trophic regimes, were observed compared to the DR09 description. These dissimilarities with the DR09 study were related to interannual variability in the sub-basin forcing: winter deep convection events, frontal instabilities, inflow of Atlantic or Black Sea Waters and river run-off. The large assortment of phytoplankton phenologies identified in the Mediterranean Sea is thus verified at interannual level, confirming the "sentinel" role of this basin to detect the impact of climate changes on the pelagic environment.
A new ensemble-based consistency test for the Community Earth System Model (pyCECT v1.0)
Authors: Baker A. H. , Hammerling D. M. , Levy M. N. , Xu H. , Dennis J. M. , Eaton B. E. , Edwards J. , Hannay C. , Mickelson S. A. , Neale R. B. , Nychka D. , Shollenberger J. , Tribbia J. , Vertenstein M. , Williamson D.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. Climate simulation codes, such as the Community Earth System Model (CESM), are especially complex and continually evolving. Their ongoing state of development requires frequent software verification in the form of quality assurance to both preserve the quality of the code and instill model confidence. To formalize and simplify this previously subjective and computationally expensive aspect of the verification process, we have developed a new tool for evaluating climate consistency. Because an ensemble of simulations allows us to gauge the natural variability of the model's climate, our new tool uses an ensemble approach for consistency testing. In particular, an ensemble of CESM climate runs is created, from which we obtain a statistical distribution that can be used to determine whether a new climate run is statistically distinguishable from the original ensemble. The CESM ensemble consistency test, referred to as CESM-ECT, is objective in nature and accessible to CESM developers and users. The tool has proven its utility in detecting errors in software and hardware environments and providing rapid feedback to model developers.
Recognizing and Supporting Students with Mental Health Disorders: The REDFLAGS Model
Authors: Kalkbrenner Michael Thomas
Published: September 2015

The increasing prevalence of Mental Health Disorders (MHDs) and campus violence tragedies has called attention to the issue of MHDs on college campuses. The current article provides an overview of the prevalence and severity of MHDs among college students. In addition, a review of the most common MHDs on college campuses is included. Students with MHDs are at increased risks for a variety of negative consequences. Students who received treatment for MHDs reported a more positive daily functioning and demonstrated significantly higher retention rates. However, a large proportion of the students who are living with MHDs do not receive treatment. Furthermore, college counselors typically only interact with a small proportion of the students who are living with MHDs. Faculty members have more frequent interactions with students and are a valuable resource for recognizing students who are living with MHDs. The REDFLAGS Model, an acronym that identifies eight behavioral indicators of MHDs in students is introduced. A description of how educators can use the REDFLAGS Model as a tool for recognizing signs of MHDs in their students is described. It is not recommended that educators provide treatment for MHDs to their students. Rather, educators can use The REDFLAGS Model to recognize signs of MHDs in students and support them by making referrals to the college counseling center or to other resources. A resource list of mental health support services that are available for college students is included. The resource list can be customized to include resources at specific universities in particular geographic areas.
Evidence on the Wage Returns of Advanced Vocational Training and University Education in Spain
Authors: Blázquez Maite , Herrarte Ainhoa , Llorente-Heras Raquel
Published: September 2015

This paper analyses the evolution of the wage return to tertiary education in Spain,
distinguishing between advanced vocational training and university education. Using
microdata from the Spanish Structure of Earnings Survey, the study estimates wage equations
which, in addition to considering the human capital and the personal and employment
characteristics of individuals as causal factors, includes a measure of the excess labour supply
of university graduates by region. The results show that the wage differential of the graduate
population fell, in general, in the period 1995-2006, and that a relatively high supply of
graduates in the regional labour market negatively affects wages in such regions, and that
these effects increase over time.
Man versus Machine: the importance of manual blood pressure measurement skills amongst registered nurses
Authors: Unsworth John , Tucker Guy , Hindmarsh Yvonne
Published: September 2015

Background: The manual recording of blood pressure is widely accepted to be more accurate than the recording of blood pressure using an automated device. Despite this many western healthcare systems have moved almost entirely to the automated recording of this important vital sign using oscillometric devices. Such devices may either fail to record the patient’s blood pressure in persistent hypotension or may give inaccurate readings in people with arteriosclerotic or atherosclerotic changes. This paper explores the importance of manual blood pressure recording, the availability of aneroid sphygmomanometers in UK hospitals and the maintenance of the skills of the workforce following initial nurse education.Methods: Using a survey of nursing students to explore what opportunities they have to practice manual blood pressures in the clinical setting, the paper explores the maintenance of skills following initial nurse education. The paper also describes the results of data collection, using unobtrusive methods, regarding the availability of aneroid sphygmomanometers in general and specialist hospital facilities in Northern England (UK). Data using both methods were collected in the spring of 2014.Results: The results suggest that despite most hospitals having some aneriod sphygmomanometers available (mean was 1 device for every 6 beds in acute, 1 device for every 3 beds in specialist hospitals and 1 device for every 12 beds in mental health) they were rarely used in clinical practice with only 35% of students reporting that they had undertaken a manual blood pressure in a clinical setting during the first year of their course. In addition, some hospitals had no aneroid devices and several others had no central record of location and regular calibration of such devices.Conclusions: The suggested infrequent use of aneroid devices raises a concern that nurses skills in manual blood pressure recording may be subject to decay over time. Given the importance of these skills in patient safety and, in ensuring accurate and effective care, failure to ensure adequate equipment and opportunities for skill maintenance could result in practitioners and hospitals being open to negligence claims
Predictors of improvement in semen parameters after varicocelectomy for male subfertility: A prospective study
Authors: Shabana Waleed , Teleb Mohamed , Dawod Tamer , Elsayed Ehab , Desoky Esam , Shahin Ashraf , Eladl Mahmoud , Sorour Waleed
Published: September 2015

Introduction: We aim to predict results of varicocelectomy on sperm density and progressive motility using preoperative clinical, laboratory and radiological data and to propose cut-off values for significant parameters.Methods: This prospective study was carried out between July 2011 and June 2014. We included 123 patients in our study. They were diagnosed with primary infertility with varicocele, were scheduled for varicocelectomy, and completed their follow-up. We excluded patients with azoospermia, total necrospermia, recurrent varicocele, and pituitary hormonal abnormalities. Varicocele was diagnosed and graded by physical examination and colour Doppler ultrasound. Semen analyses were completed preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively. Microscopic subinguinal varicocelectomy was done in all cases. Patient demographics, pre- and postoperative clinical data (varicocele grade and semen parameters) were statistically analyzed.Results: The mean ± standard deviation of age, body mass index, and subfertility duration was 28.3 ± 7.4 years, 29.1 ± 2.7 kg/m2, and 21.9 ± 7.1 months, respectively. About 53% of our patients (n = 66) had bilateral varicocele, and unilateral disease was found in the other 57 (46.3%) cases. Varicocele grade I was diagnosed in 42 (34.1%) patients, while the other 81 (65.9%) patients had grade II or III. Higher grades of varicocele, preoperative total testosterone level, sperm density, and progressive motility had a statistically significant impact on the outcome of varicocelectomy in univariate testing. Multivariate logistic analysis revealed that grade of preoperative varicocele (95% confidence interval [CI] 5.6–6.3, p = 0.007) and sperm density (95% CI 2.7–1.6, p = 0.0035), and progressive motility (95% CI 1.1–2.3, p = 0.0123) are independent predictors of semen parameters improvement after varicocelectomy.Conclusion: The grade of the varicocele, sperm density, and progressive motility are major predictors of outcome in varicocelectomy. Cut-off values of >8 million/mL and >18% for sperm density and progressive motility, respectively, in men with varicocele grade II or III, indicate a successful outcome.
Paradoxical air embolism during percutaneous nephrolithotomy due to patent foramen ovale: Case report
Authors: Chahal Daljeet , Ruzhynsky Vladimir , McAuley Iain , Sweeney Desmond , Sobkin Paul , Kinahan Michael , Gardiner Rich , Kinahan John
Published: September 2015

Paradoxical air embolism is a very rare complication associated with percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). Incidence may be higher if patients also suffer from a septal heart defect. We report the case of a 76-year old male who presented for PCNL treatment of a right kidney lower calyceal calculus. During the procedure, the patient developed signs and symptoms consistent with that of air embolism. Intraoperative echocardiography confirmed the diagnosis. Subsequent intraoperative and postoperative medical management was carried out and the patient was discharged after recovery three days later. This case highlights the importance of a rare but potentially fatal complication of PCNL.
Tubulocystic renal cell carcinoma: Report of a rare case
Authors: Kakkar Aanchal , Sharma Mehar C. , Uppal Manpreet , Chumber Sunil
Published: September 2015

Cystic neoplasms of the kidney are rare, and present a unique diagnostic challenge. We report the case of an elderly male who presented with a large cystic neoplasm, which was a diagnostic dilemma clinically and radiologically. Histopathological examination showed a tumour composed of variably sized tubules lined by atypical cells having large round nuclei with prominent nucleoli. Hobnailing was seen at places. Tumour cells were immunopositive for pancytokeratin, vimentin, CD10, CK19 and AMACR, confirming a diagnosis of tubulocystic renal cell carcinoma (TC-RCC).
Resting Electromyographic Activity of Deep Thoracic Transversospinalis Muscles Identified as Abnormal With Palpation
Authors: Fryer Gary , Bird Michael , Robbins Barry , Fossum Christian , Johnson Jane C.
Published: September 2015

Context: In the 1940s, osteopathic researchers suggested that paraspinal tissue abnormality was associated with spontaneous muscle activity, but few studies have since re-examined these reports.

Objective: To determine whether abnormal motor activity plays a role in deep paraspinal tissues that appear abnormal to palpation.

Methods: Using an observational study design, the PVG of participants with thoracic pain were palpated by two examiners for consensus on the most marked level of tissue abnormality. Dual fine-wire, intramuscular electrodes were inserted into the deep transversospinalis (multifidus, rotatores) muscles at the abnormal level and at two normal sites (above and below the abnormal level). Surface electrodes were placed over the erector spinae muscles adjacent to each intramuscular electrode site. Electromyography signals were recorded during initial prone resting, three maximal voluntary isometric contractions (MVIC), and a second prone resting. The area under the curve for a 2-second period was analyzed for each condition, and values were normalized and reported as a percentage of MVIC. Data were analyzed using a 2-factor repeated-measures analysis of variance.

Results: Twenty-five participants with mean (SD) thoracic pain of 3.3 (1.9) on a 0 to 10 visual analog pain scale completed the study protocol. There were no statistically significant differences in normalized resting activity between the three intramuscular sites (P=.25) or between the three surface sites (P=.33). Substantial variability in normalized resting activity at each of the three intramuscular sites was evident (mean [SD] percent of MVIC: abnormal 7.83 [8.76]; normal 9.47 [8.45], 6.65 [7.39]). No statistically significant differences existed in the intramuscular EMG values between the two resting baseline periods (P=.10).

Conclusion: The lack of statistically significant differences between EMG activity at the abnormal and normal paraspinal sites suggests that factors other than muscle activity are responsible for the apparent abnormality of these tissues to palpation. Investigation of these regions for increased tissue fluid and inflammatory mediators is recommended.
The Financial Collapse of Local Bodies: the Case of the Municipality of Taranto
Authors: Turco Mario
Published: September 2015

The present work aims to offer a contribute for the evaluation of the opportunity to adopt strategies based on state support or, alternatively, on the managerial autonomy of local bodies in financial trouble. The research, after analyzing the main guidelines at European level and mentioning possible solutions currently laid down in Italian legislation, presents the results of an empirical investigation on the economic effects produced on the local economy by the collapse of the Municipality of Taranto. The choice of the city of Taranto is due both to the significant magnitude of the ascertained debt, which was one of the highest in the history of Italy, and to the considerable economic effects caused by the recovery procedure. Specifically, have been firstly examined the reasons which led to the collapse of the local public authority and the main aspects characterizing the administrative management of the passive mass besides the possible solutions for the definitive implementation of the recovery plan.
Disentangling the contribution of multiple land covers to fire‐mediated carbon emissions in Amazonia during the 2010 drought
Authors: Anderson Liana Oighenstein , Aragão Luiz E. O. C. , Gloor Manuel , Arai Egídio , Adami Marcos , Saatchi Sassan S. , Malhi Yadvinder , Shimabukuro Yosio E. , Barlow Jos , Berenguer Erika , Duarte Valdete
Published: September 2015

In less than 15 years, the Amazon region experienced three major droughts. Links between droughts and fires have been demonstrated for the 1997/1998, 2005, and 2010 droughts. In 2010, emissions of 510 ± 120 Tg C were associated to fire alone in Amazonia. Existing approaches have, however, not yet disentangled the proportional contribution of multiple land cover sources to this total. We develop a novel integration of multisensor and multitemporal satellite‐derived data on land cover, active fires, and burned area and an empirical model of fire‐induced biomass loss to quantify the extent of burned areas and resulting biomass loss for multiple land covers in Mato Grosso (MT) state, southern Amazonia—the 2010 drought most impacted region. We show that 10.77% (96,855 km2) of MT burned. We estimated a gross carbon emission of 56.21 ± 22.5 Tg C from direct combustion of biomass, with an additional 29.4 ± 10 Tg C committed to be emitted in the following years due to dead wood decay. It is estimated that old‐growth forest fires in the whole Brazilian Legal Amazon (BLA) have contributed to 14.81 Tg of C (11.75 Tg C to 17.87 Tg C) emissions to the atmosphere during the 2010 fire season, with an affected area of 27,555 km2. Total C loss from the 2010 fires in MT state and old‐growth forest fires in the BLA represent, respectively, 77% (47% to 107%) and 86% (68.2% to 103%) of Brazil's National Plan on Climate Change annual target for Amazonia C emission reductions from deforestation.