bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A study on the relationship between BOD5 and COD in a coastal seawater environment with a rapid BOD measurement system
Authors: Jin X. L. , Jing M. , Chen X. , Zhuang Z. X. , Wang X. R. , Lee Frank S. C.
Published: March 2010

The dual objectives of this study are to: (1) examine the relationship between COD and BOD in seawater environment with a rapid but reliable method for the measurement of BOD in seawater, and (2) establish the relationship model between BOD5 and COD in the firth of Dongbao River to predict the values of BOD5. The first objective is met by the successful development of a technique utilizing bacteria-immobilized membrane flow cell for biodegradation process, coupled with fibre optic fluorescence detection for oxygen depletion quantitation. The technique has been applied to coastal seawater samples collected in the coastal area of Shenzhen, China. The BOD5 and COD values for the samples are acquired and the results show that there is no apparent linear relationship existing between BOD5 and COD in relatively clean seawater samples away from the shore. However, in estuary water samples containing relatively high concentration of sewage contamination, a linear correlation does exist between BOD5 and COD. The linear relationship between the two parameters allows for the calculation of BOD5 values based on COD data which can be measured more readily and precisely.
Practical applications of quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) for water safety plans
Authors: Smeets P. W. M. H. , Rietveld L. C. , van Dijk J. C. , Medema G. J.
Published: March 2010

The absence of indicator organisms in drinking water does not provide sufficient guarantee for microbial safety. Therefore the water utilities are implementing water safety plans (WSP) to safeguard drinking water quality. Quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) can be used to provide objective quantitative input for the WSP. This study presents several applications of treatment modelling in QMRA to answer the risk managers questions raised in the WSP. QMRA can estimate how safe the water is, how much the safety varies and how certain the estimate of safety is. This can be used in the WSP system assessment to determine whether treatment is meeting health-based targets with the required level of certainty. Quantitative data analysis showed that short events of only 8 hours per year can dominate the yearly average health risk for the consumer. QMRA also helps the design of physical and microbial monitoring. The study showed that the required monitoring frequency increases with increasing treatment efficacy. Daily monitoring can be sufficient to verify a treatment process achieving 2 log reduction of pathogens, but a process achieving 4 log reduction needs to be monitored every 15 minutes. Similarly, QMRA helps to prepare adequate corrective actions by determining the acceptable ‘down time’ of a process. For example, for a process achieving 2.5 log reduction a down time of maximum 6 hours per year is acceptable. These applications illustrate how QMRA can contribute to efficient and effective management of microbial drinking water safety.
Removal of arsenate from aqueous solution by nanocrystalline Mg/Al layered double hydroxide: sorption characteristics, prospects, and challenges
Authors: Goh K. H. , Lim T. T. , Dong Z. L.
Published: March 2010

Removal of arsenate (As(V)) from aqueous solution using both nanocrystalline and coprecipitated Mg/Al layered double hydroxides (LDHs) was examined under different sorption/desorption conditions. The surface area, pore volume, and pore size of the nanocrystalline LDH were significantly higher than those of the coprecipitated LDH, thus resulting in a higher As(V) sorption maximum than the coprecipitated LDH. The calculated activation energy (Ea) value was 24.7 kJ/mol, suggesting the occurrence of anion exchange process for As(V) removal by the nanocrystalline LDH. The predominance of anion exchange process was further supported by the investigation of ionic strength effect, and XRD and FTIR analyses. The effect of aqueous matrix on As(V) sorption by the nanocrystalline LDH was found to increase in the order of nitrate < silica < sulfate < carbonate < phosphate. Regeneration study showed that a secondary sorption mechanism might occur concurrently for the As(V) sorption by nanocrystalline LDH besides the predominant anion exchange process. Prospects and challenges for practical application of the nanocrystalline LDH were also discussed in the latter part of this study.
Oxidation of cosmetic wastewaters with H2O2 using a Fe/γ-Al2O3 catalyst
Authors: Bautista P. , Mohedano A. F. , Casas J. A. , Zazo J. A. , Rodriguez J. J.
Published: March 2010

A catalyst based on Fe supported on γ-Al2O3 has been prepared and tested for catalytic wet peroxide oxidation (CWPO) of cosmetic wastewaters. The influence of the main operating conditions (space-time, temperature, and H2O2 dose) have been investigated. Working with this self-made Fe/γ-Al2O3 catalyst at 85°C, with a space-time of 9.4 kgcat h/kgCOD and a dose of H2O2, corresponding to 0.5 times the theoretical stoichiometric H2O2/COD ratio, a substantial COD reduction (around 80%) has been reached with a complete consumption of H2O2. The locally allowable limit of COD for industrial wastewaters discharge to the municipal sewer system can be achieved at lower temperature and space-time. The catalyst showed a high stability in 100 h time on stream tests, where COD and TOC reductions around 82 and 60%, respectively, were maintained working at 85°C and 9.4 kgcat h/kgCOD space-time. Fe leaching from the catalyst upon that time on stream was lower than 3% of the initial load.
A Fault Detection and Diagnosis Strategy for Batch/Semi-Batch Processes
Authors: Maulud Abdulhalim , Romagnoli José
Published: March 2010

This paper presents fault detection and diagnosis methodology for batch/semi-batch processes using a multi-way orthogonal nonlinear PCA approach. In this work, a sequential extracting process of linear and nonlinear correlations from process data is performed. The approach reduces the complexity of the nonlinear PCA model structure, which dramatically improves the model generalization. An orthogonal nonlinear PCA procedure is incorporated to capture the nonlinear characteristics with a minimum number of principal components. A trajectory-boundary-limit crossing point discriminant analysis is proposed to diagnose the process faults. A two-step discriminant analysis is also incorporated to improve the diagnostic performance in the case of isotropically distributed trajectories. The validity of the proposed strategy is demonstrated by the application to an emulsion copolymerization of styrene/MMA semi-batch process.
Banting Lecture 2009: An Unfinished Journey: Molecular Pathogenesis to Prevention of Type 1A Diabetes
Authors: Eisenbarth George S.
Published: March 2010

The Banting Medal for Scientific Achievement Award is the American Diabetes Association's highest scientific award and honors an individual who has made significant, long-term contributions to the understanding of diabetes, its treatment, and/or prevention. The award is named after Nobel Prize winner Sir Frederick Banting, who codiscovered insulin treatment for diabetes.

Dr. Eisenbarth received the American Diabetes Association's Banting Medal for Scientific Achievement at the Association's 69th Scientific Sessions, June 5–9, 2009, in New Orleans, Louisiana. He presented the Banting Lecture, An Unfinished Journey—Type 1 Diabetes—Molecular Pathogenesis to Prevention, on Sunday, June 7, 2009.
Review of Adverse Events Associated With False Glucose Readings Measured by GDH-PQQ–Based Glucose Test Strips in the Presence of Interfering Sugars
Authors: Frias Juan P. , Lim Christine G. , Ellison John M. , Montandon Carol M.
Published: March 2010

OBJECTIVE

To assess the implications of falsely elevated glucose readings measured with glucose dehydrogenase pyrroloquinolinequinone (GDH-PQQ) test strips.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We conducted a review of the Food and Drug Administration's Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience database and medical literature for adverse events (AEs) associated with falsely elevated glucose readings with GDH-PQQ test strips in the presence of interfering sugars.

RESULTS

Eighty-two reports were identified: 16 (20%) were associated with death, 46 (56%) with severe hypoglycemia, and 12 (15%) with nonsevere hypoglycemia. In eight reports (10%), the AE was not described. Forty-two events (51%) occurred in the U.S. Although most events occurred in hospitalized patients, at least 14 (17%) occurred in outpatients. Agents most commonly associated with AEs were icodextrin-containing peritoneal dialysate and maltose-containing intravenous immune globulin.

CONCLUSIONS

GDH-PQQ test strips pose a safety risk to insulin-using patients treated with agents containing or metabolized to interfering sugars.
The effect of the lipid-binding site of the ankyrin-binding domain of erythroid β-spectrin on the properties of natural membranes and skeletal structures
Authors: Chorzalska Anna , Łach Agnieszka , Borowik Tomasz , Wolny Marcin , Hryniewicz-Jankowska Anita , Kolondra Adam , Langner Marek , Sikorski Aleksander
Published: March 2010

It was previously shown that the beta-spectrin ankyrin-binding domain binds lipid domains rich in PE in an ankyrin-dependent manner, and that its N-terminal sequence is crucial in interactions with phospholipids. In this study, the effect of the full-length ankyrin-binding domain of β-spectrin on natural erythrocyte and HeLa cell membranes was tested. It was found that, when encapsulated in resealed erythrocyte ghosts, the protein representing the full-length ankyrin-binding domain strongly affected the shape and barrier properties of the erythrocyte membrane, and induced partial spectrin release from the membrane, while truncated mutants had no effect. As found previously (Bok et al. Cell Biol. Int. 31 (2007) 1482–94), overexpression of the full-length GFP-tagged ankyrin-binding domain aggregated and induced aggregation of endogenous spectrin, but this was not the case with overexpression of proteins truncated at their N-terminus. Here, we show that the aggregation of spectrin was accompanied by the aggregation of integral membrane proteins that are known to be connected to spectrin via ankyrin, i.e. Na+K+ATP-ase, IP3 receptor protein and L1 CAM. By contrast, the morphology of the actin cytoskeleton remained unchanged and aggregation of cadherin E or N did not occur upon the overexpression of either full-length or truncated ankyrin-binding domain proteins. The obtained results indicate a substantial role of the lipid-binding part of the β-spectrin ankyrin-binding domain in the determination of the membrane and spectrin-based skeleton functional properties.
Alcohol and HCV Chronic Infection Are Risk Cofactors of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus for Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Italy
Authors: Balbi Massimiliano , Donadon Valter , Ghersetti Michela , Grazioli Silvia , Della Valentina Giovanni , Gardenal Rita , Dal Mas Maria , Casarin Pietro , Zanette Giorgio , Miranda Cesare , Cimarosti Paolo
Published: March 2010

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) has been associated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development. To study this relationship, we enrolled 465 HCC patients compared with 618 Cirrhotic cases and 490 Controls. The prevalence of DM2 is significantly higher in HCC patients with an Odds Ratio of 3.12 versus Controls. In HCC cases with alcohol abuse, the frequency of DM2 is the highest. In our HCC patients, when HCV infection is associated with alcohol abuse, the liver cancer develops earlier. In addition, multivariate analysis shows that alcohol consumption is an independent risk factor for HCC more relevant than HCV infection.
Real-Time Occlusion Handling in Augmented Reality Based on an Object Tracking Approach
Authors: Tian Yuan , Guan Tao , Wang Cheng
Published: March 2010

To produce a realistic augmentation in Augmented Reality, the correct relative positions of real objects and virtual objects are very important. In this paper, we propose a novel real-time occlusion handling method based on an object tracking approach. Our method is divided into three steps: selection of the occluding object, object tracking and occlusion handling. The user selects the occluding object using an interactive segmentation method. The contour of the selected object is then tracked in the subsequent frames in real-time. In the occlusion handling step, all the pixels on the tracked object are redrawn on the unprocessed augmented image to produce a new synthesized image in which the relative position between the real and virtual object is correct. The proposed method has several advantages. First, it is robust and stable, since it remains effective when the camera is moved through large changes of viewing angles and volumes or when the object and the background have similar colors. Second, it is fast, since the real object can be tracked in real-time. Last, a smoothing technique provides seamless merging between the augmented and virtual object. Several experiments are provided to validate the performance of the proposed method.
Investigation on Reliability and Scalability of an FBG-Based Hierarchical AOFSN
Authors: Peng Li-Mei , Li Xin-Wan , Yang Won-Hyuk , Kim Young-Chon
Published: March 2010

The reliability and scalability of large-scale based optical fiber sensor networks (AOFSN) are considered in this paper. The AOFSN network consists of three-level hierarchical sensor network architectures. The first two levels consist of active interrogation and remote nodes (RNs) and the third level, called the sensor subnet (SSN), consists of passive Fiber Bragg Gratings (FBGs) and a few switches. The switch architectures in the RN and various SSNs to improve the reliability and scalability of AOFSN are studied. Two SSNs with a regular topology are proposed to support simple routing and scalability in AOFSN: square-based sensor cells (SSC) and pentagon-based sensor cells (PSC). The reliability and scalability are evaluated in terms of the available sensing coverage in the case of one or multiple link failures.
Dynamic Characteristics of a Hydraulic Amplification Mechanism for Large Displacement Actuators Systems
Authors: Arouette Xavier , Matsumoto Yasuaki , Ninomiya Takeshi , Okayama Yoshiyuki , Miki Norihisa
Published: March 2010

We have developed a hydraulic displacement amplification mechanism (HDAM) and studied its dynamic response when combined with a piezoelectric actuator. The HDAM consists of an incompressible fluid sealed in a microcavity by two largely deformable polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) membranes. The geometry with input and output surfaces having different cross-sectional areas creates amplification. By combining the HDAM with micro-actuators, we can amplify the input displacement generated by the actuators, which is useful for applications requiring large deformation, such as tactile displays. We achieved a mechanism offering up to 18-fold displacement amplification for static actuation and 12-fold for 55 Hz dynamic actuation.
Antiviral Therapy for Hepatitis C Virus: Beyond the Standard of Care
Authors: Delang Leen , Coelmont Lotte , Neyts Johan
Published: March 2010

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) represents a major health burden, with an estimated 180 million chronically infected individuals worldwide. These patients are at increased risk of developing liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Infection with HCV is the leading cause of liver transplantation in the Western world. Currently, the standard of care (SoC) consists of pegylated interferon alpha (pegIFN-α) and ribavirin (RBV). However this therapy has a limited efficacy and is associated with serious side effects. Therefore more tolerable, highly potent inhibitors of HCV replication are urgently needed. Both Specifically Targeted Antiviral Therapy for HCV (STAT-C) and inhibitors that are believed to interfere with the host-viral interaction are discussed.
The Effect of Antiretroviral Combination Treatment on Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) Genome Load in HIV-Infected Patients
Authors: Friis Anna M. C. , Gyllensten Katarina , Aleman Anna , Ernberg Ingemar , Åkerlund Börje
Published: March 2010

We evaluated the effect of combination anti-retroviral treatment (cART) on the host control of EBV infection in moderately immunosuppressed HIV-1 patients. Twenty HIV-1 infected individuals were followed for five years with repeated measurements of EBV DNA load in peripheral blood lymphocytes in relation to HIV-RNA titers and CD4+ cell counts. Individuals with optimal response, i.e. durable non-detectable HIV-RNA, showed a decline of EBV load to the level of healthy controls. Individuals with non-optimal HIV-1 control did not restore their EBV control. Long-lasting suppression of HIV-replication after early initiation of cART is a prerequisite for re-establishing the immune control of EBV.
Surgical Treatment of Developmental Hip Dislocation in Children Aged 1 to 3 Years: A Mean 18-Year, 9-Month Follow-up Study
Authors: Varner Kevin E. , Incavo Stephen J. , Haynes Richard J. , Dickson Jesse H.
Published: March 2010

Forty-six consecutive patients with 57 congenitally dislocated hips were treated with open reduction and femoral or acetabular procedures as indicated. Patient age ranged from 12 to 36 months at the time of surgery. We evaluated the outcome of 38 of the 46 patients (83%) with 47 hips (83%) at a mean follow-up of 18 years, 9 months (range, 13 years, 7 months to 24 years, 7 months) after all patients had reached skeletal maturity.

Using Severin's radiographic classification, 24 hips (52%) were rated as class I, 12 (26%) as class II, 8 (17%) as class III, 2 (4%) as class IV, and 0 as class V. The mean Iowa Hip Score was 92 points. One patient had significant abductor weakness and a Trendelenburg gait. The mean leg-length discrepancy was <1 cm. Disturbance in growth of the proximal aspect of the femur occurred in 10 hips (22%).

In our experience, open reduction of the congenitally dislocated hip in children aged 1 to 3 years, combined with femoral or acetabular procedures, leads to successful clinical and radiographic results in most cases. These patients have an opportunity for normal hip function during childhood and the potential for a straightforward reconstructive procedure should they develop severe degenerative hip arthrosis.
Perioperative Complications and Prognosis for Elderly Patients With Spinal Metastases Treated by Surgical Strategy
Authors: Murakami Hideki , Kawahara Norio , Demura Satoru , Kato Satoshi , Yoshioka Katsuhito , Sasagawa Takeshi , Tomita Katsuro
Published: March 2010

The rapidly aging population and improved long-term survival due to advancement of cancer treatment have expanded the role of surgical treatment in elderly patients with metastatic spinal disease. The purpose of this study was to evaluate in elderly patients the perioperative complications and prognosis for metastatic spinal disease. Thirty-two elderly patients (>70 years) who underwent surgical treatment based on Tomita's surgical strategy for spinal metastasis since 1999 were retrospectively reviewed. Mean survival time of 15 patients with 2 to 4 points in surgical strategy was 23.6 months; of 10 patients with 5 to 7 points was 15.2 months; and of 7 patients with 8 to 10 points was 5.2 months. In 5 elderly patients (15.6%), the appropriate surgical choice based on the surgical strategy was not possible due to their preoperative conditions. Perioperative complications encountered were respiratory in 6 patients (18.8%), cardiovascular in 3 (9.4%), and delirium in 4 (12.5%). In the nonelderly 161 patients, respiratory complications occurred in 4 patients (2.5%), cardiovascular in 1 (0.6%), and delirium in 2 (1.2%). Respiratory complications and delirium occurred at a significantly higher frequency in the elderly group. Even for elderly patients, the postoperative prognosis could be predicted by the surgical strategy. However, the optimal surgical procedure may deviate from that predicted by the surgical strategy due to their preoperative conditions and an increased risk for perioperative complications. Despite the increased potential for complications, more radical procedures, such as total en bloc spondylectomy, should not be avoided solely due to advanced patient age.
Experience With a Large-Frame, Disposable External Fixator
Authors: Seligson David , Douglas Lonnie
Published: March 2010

External fixation is a temporizing measure that has a long history in the treatment of fractures. Thirty-eight newly designed large-frame external fixators were applied for acute lower-limb fractures and pelvis injuries in a level I trauma center. In 75% of cases, the frames were used for first-stage skeletal stabilization, followed by revision to plates or nails 1 to 2 weeks later. The external fixators remained in place from 4 to 28 days (median, 8 days). The fixator is composed of a low-cost plastic resin and uses modular, disposable components. The montage requires only 2 varieties of clamp, monotube rods, and fixation pins already in-house. The device is lighter than conventional fixators yet equal in rigidity. Cost analysis performed by our institution demonstrated cost savings of 20% to 25% compared to conventional external fixation. The new device is packaged sterilely and does not require autoclaving before application. Patient acceptance of the device was good. There were no complications or disadvantages associated with the use of this lower-cost device. Specifically, there were no pin tract infections, no loss of fixation, and no loosening or disassembly of the devices.
Femoral Neck Fractures: Does Age Influence Acute Hospital Stay, Delay to Surgery, and Acute Care Costs?
Authors: Verma Rajeev , Rigby Alan , Shaw Chris , Mohsen Amr
Published: March 2010

The population of Western countries is aging. Previous studies have reported that advancing age does not significantly affect acute inpatient stay in femoral neck fractures. The primary goal of our study was to compare inpatient stay in acute orthopedic wards and time delay to surgery with increasing age in patients with femoral neck fractures. We then looked at the effect of covariates on our outcome measures. Our secondary goal was to identify any additional cost implications for acute care of femoral neck fractures with increasing age.

This study describes 3712 patients with femoral neck fractures. The unadjusted mean stay in an acute orthopedic ward increased from 12.4 days in the patients younger than 60 years to 21.4 days in the patients 90 to 99 years (
P
<.0001). Similarly, unadjusted mean surgical delay increased from 20.7 hours to 39.5 hours (
P
<.0001). The unadjusted cost increased from $3394 in the patients younger than 60 years to $6235 in the patients 90 to 99 years.

As the population ages, the number of femoral neck fractures will increase. Our study demonstrates that age is an independent predictor of increased inpatient stay and surgical delay. It also shows that we need increased resources to tackle femoral neck fractures in the aging population.
The Effect of Seprafilm on Adhesion Formation and Tendon Healing After Flexor Tendon Repair in Chicken
Authors: Yilmaz Erhan , Avci Mustafa , Bulut Mehmet , Kelestimur Halidun , Karakurt Lokman , Ozercan Ibrahim
Published: March 2010

Adhesion of the tendon, which can occur during healing of tendon repair, is negatively affected by the outcome of surgery. In this experimental study, we sought to prevent adhesion of the tendon, and determined the mechanical stiffness of repair tissue by wrapping sodium hyaluronate and carboxymethylcellulose (Seprafilm; Genzyme, Cambridge, Massachusetts) around the repaired tendon segments. The study group comprised 2 groups of 20 chickens. In group I, the right gastrocnemius tendons of the chickens were cut smoothly, and after tendon and sheath repair, the skin was sutured. In group II, the right gastrocnemius tendons of the chickens were cut, the tendons were repaired, and before skin closure, Seprafilm was wrapped around the repaired tendon segments. Plastic splints were used for holding the chickens' ankles in a neutral position, and they were allowed weight bearing for 8 weeks. In group II, anatomic space between the tendon-sheath and tendon was clear and the tendon-sheath complex was sliding easily around the repaired tendon segment, and this complex was more functional both biomechanically and histologically. Also, the Seprafilm-applied tendons (group II) were observed to be biomechanically more resistant to the tensile forces in group I. Seprafilm is an easily applied interpositional material that can be used safely to prevent adhesion during the tendon healing process.
The Use of Calcium Sulfate Impregnated With Vancomycin in the Treatment of Open Fractures of Long Bones: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Cai Xiaobing , Han Kaiwei , Cong Xiaoliang , Cai Jinfang , Tong Dake , Han Dong , Wang Yu , Yu Baoqing
Published: March 2010

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of calcium sulfate impregnated with vancomycin combined with internal fixation in the treatment of open fractures of long bones. Between October 2007 and January 2008, twenty-eight patients (24 men, 4 women) who sustained open fractures of long bones were enrolled. Mean patient age was 34.5 years (range, 19–57 years). According to the classification system developed by Gustilo and Anderson, there were 15 type II open fractures, 11 type IIIa open fractures, and 2 type IIIc open fractures. All the patients were treated with vancomycin-loaded calcium sulphate and internal fixation. Clinical signs of wound infection were recorded. Postoperative radiographs were used to evaluate the bone healing and absorption process.

Twenty-six of 28 patients were followed-up successfully, with an average follow-up of 10.5 months (range, 6–16 months). No infection was present in the 26 patients. Exudation from the incision or the drain incision was observed in 2 patients. Bacteria culture was negative and the wound healed with dressing change within 15 days. Bone union was observed in 23 patients, with a mean bone union time of 5.8 months (range, 4–9 months). All the calcium sulfate pellets had completely resorbed in an average of 1.4 months (range, 1–2 months). Our study showed that the combination of internal fixation and calcium sulfate impregnated with vancomycin could decrease the incidence of deep infection without impairment to the bone healing process in the treatment of open fractures of long bones.
Sex-related Outcome Differences After Arthroscopic Shoulder Stabilization
Authors: Kaipel Martin , Reichetseder Jürgen , Schuetzenberger Sebastian , Hertz Harald , Majewski Martin
Published: March 2010

Arthroscopic shoulder stabilization using Bankart's repair technique has become a standard intervention in the treatment of traumatic shoulder instability. Nevertheless, knowledge about sex-related differences postoperatively is scarce. The goal of our study was to compare the outcome of men and women after arthroscopic shoulder stabilization. All patients underwent arthroscopic shoulder stabilization due to anterior shoulder instability after traumatic shoulder dislocation. Patients received a standardized questionnaire for evaluating subjective parameters. Subsequently, patients were clinically examined by orthopedic physicians where their Constant-Murley score was raised, and apprehension and sulcus sign tests were conducted. The study included 24 men (mean age, 29.9 years; mean follow-up, 55 months) and 12 women (mean age, 31.8 years; mean follow-up, 62.3 months). Women showed a significantly decreased Constant-Murley score compared to men (
P
=.045). A positive apprehension test indicating decreased shoulder stability was found more often in women (
P
=.018). A positive sulcus sign test indicating increased joint laxity was found in 25% of women and only 12.5% of men without reaching statistical significance (
P
=.378). Compared to men, shoulder function as well as shoulder stability was significantly decreased in women after arthroscopic shoulder stabilization.
Distal Humeral Fracture With Associated Triceps Tendon Avulsion in a Renal Transplant Recipient
Authors: Gupta Rishi R. , Murthi Anand M.
Published: March 2010

Although distal humeral fractures are well described in the literature, concomitant distal triceps avulsion has not previously been reported. One population that warrants a high index of suspicion for tendon injury after trauma is patients with renal disease. Clinical tests on such patients may yield equivocal results, and in that setting, magnetic resonance imaging may be useful in the diagnosis of concomitant tendon injury. Postoperative rehabilitation is a challenge considering that the old standard of care for isolated triceps avulsions is several weeks of immobilization and that early motion is recommended for open reduction and internal fixation of distal humeral fractures. More recent literature supports early active-assisted range-of-motion (ROM) elbow exercises after triceps tendon repair, and our case supports those recommendations.

A 48-year-old, right-hand-dominant man, who was a living-related kidney transplant recipient 3 years previously, presented with radiographic evidence of an intra-articular distal humeral fracture. The patient was rejecting his kidney at the time of injury and was receiving 50 mg of prednisone daily. The patient underwent open reduction and internal fixation of the distal humeral fracture and concomitant triceps repair. Postoperatively, active-assisted and passive ROM elbow exercises were begun. At 3-year follow-up, the patient had 10° to 120° of motion at the elbow, with full supination and pronation.
Closed Reduction of a Dislocated Constrained Total Hip Arthroplasty Using a Novel Technique With a Peg Board
Authors: Flint John H. , Phisitkul Phinit , Callaghan John J.
Published: March 2010

This article describes a case of closed reduction of a dislocated total hip arthroplasty (THA) out of a constrained acetabular liner using a novel technique with a peg board secured to the operating table.

A 79-year-old woman sustained multiple dislocations after a primary THA. She was converted to a constrained liner and sustained no further dislocations for 5 years. She presented after dislocating her hip while getting out of a chair. The patient was taken to the operating room, placed under general anesthesia, and laid supine on the operating table, to which a peg board had been previously securely attached. A padded perineal post was placed in the patient's groin into the peg board. Under fluoroscopy, in-line traction was applied to the right leg until the femoral head was perched on the acetabular liner. With internal rotation and pressure over the trochanter, the femoral head was reduced.

This technique requires less set-up time than using a fracture table. It also securely stabilizes the patient without skilled assistants during longitudinal traction. Moreover, if closed reduction fails, the patient can be rapidly placed in the lateral decubitus position for open reduction or revision arthroplasty. Successful closed reduction of a dislocated constrained liner turns an emergent case into an elective case if revision arthroplasty is indicated. This technique can also be easily used for the more common reductions of dislocated nonconstrained THAs.
Life-Threatening Posterior Circumflex Humeral Artery Injury Secondary to Fracture-Dislocation of the Proximal Humerus
Authors: Gorthi Venkat , Moon Young Lae , Jo Sueng-Hwan , Sohn Hong Moon , Ha Sang Ho
Published: March 2010

Proximal humeral fractures account for 4% to 5% of all fractures, and most of these are minimally displaced and less prone to neurovascular injuries. This article presents a case of a 65-year-old man who injured the posterior circumflex humeral artery following a fracture dislocation of the proximal humerus leading to a life-threatening hemorrhagic complication during surgical fixation of the dislocated proximal humeral fracture. Preoperative vital signs were normal. Using the deltopectoral approach, the fracture site was exposed and the dislocated head was extracted. Blood pooled and overflowed the cavity at a brisk pace. Blood pressure dropped from 130/70 mm Hg to 90/45 mm Hg, and preoperative follow-up hemoglobin dropped to 4.8 g/dL. The axillary artery was explored and a ruptured posterior humeral circumflex artery was observed that was later ligated. In view of the damage to 1 of the circumflex humeral branches, primary hemiarthroplasty was performed. This article highlights the possibility of encountering life-threatening vascular injuries in highly displaced or dislocated 4-part proximal humeral fractures and the significance of obtaining the angiographic studies early in the course of management in such cases.
Pediatric Trigger Thumb in Identical Twins: Congenital or Acquired?
Authors: Kakel Rafid , Van Heerden Pieter , Gallagher Barry , Verniquet Andrew
Published: March 2010

Pediatric trigger thumb is an uncommon condition with a calculated incidence of 3 per 1000 live births or less. Some reports have suggested a congenital etiology while others could not find a single case of pediatric trigger thumb at birth. This article reports the occurrence of bilateral trigger thumbs in identical twins, age 3 years and 9 months, affecting their thumbs to similar extents, which may suggest a congenital etiology.

Congenital etiology for trigger thumb has been proposed for many reasons: occurrence in infants, occurrence in twins, occasional bilaterality, possible presence of triggering at birth, and absence of history of trauma. The occurrence of pediatric trigger thumb in twins has been reported 3 times in the literature; all reported cases were bilateral, as in our case.

The mean age at presentation of pediatric trigger thumb is 2 years. The thumb is usually held in a fixed flexion position (mimicking a fracture). Examination usually reveals a palpable nodule in the flexor pollicis longus tendon at the metacarpal joint. This is an important clinical sign. Triggering in children, however, is rare. Macroscopically, there is a nodular thickening of the tendon itself. Pathological changes can be found in the tendon, tendon sheath, or both. A specimen taken from one of the nodules in our case showed degenerative changes while those from both pulleys were normal.

Pediatric trigger thumb responds predictably to A1 pulley release, preferably before age 4 years, although milder cases may resolve spontaneously.
Confluent Laser Photocoagulation for the Treatment of Retinopathy of Prematurity
Authors: Gonzalez Victor H. , Giuliari Gian P. , Banda Rodolfo M. , Guell David A. , Wingard Michael
Published: March 2010

Educational Objectives

1.

To review the current treatments for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) following CRYO-ROP and ETROP guidelines.

2.

To review the use of laser photocoagulation in the treatment of ROP.

3.

To describe the rate of progression, frequency of retreatment, complication rate, structural outcomes, and post-treatment refractive error following laser photocoagulation treatment of ROP.

Purpose:

To describe the efficacy, outcomes, and complications of confluent laser technique in a cohort of premature infants with threshold retinopathy of prematurity. Laser photocoagulation has a good treatment outcome in the management of retinopathy of prematurity; however, the number and density of laser spots remains debatable. Laser treatment can be done in a scattered pattern, a near-confluent pattern, or a confluent treatment pattern.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review of patients with threshold retinopathy of prematurity treated between 2003 and 2006 was conducted. Confluent laser treatment was applied anterior to the ridge extending to the ora serrata 360˚. Rate of progression, frequency of retreatment, postoperative complications, structural outcomes, and refractive error were evaluated.

Results:

A total of 100 eyes from 51 patients were included. Mean gestational age was 28 weeks (range: 23 to 32 weeks) and mean birth weight was 1,065 g (range: 477 to 1,905 g). Patients had a mean follow-up of 13 months (range: 6 to 50 months). Progression to stage 4 or 5 occurred only in a total of 6 eyes (6%). Postoperative complications included cataract, vitreous hemorrhage, corneal edema, and macular dragging. Mean spherical equivalent at the last follow-up visit was −3.80 diopters (range: −19.00 to + 4.00 diopters).

Conclusion:

Patients treated with confluent laser photocoagulation had a low rate of progression to stage 4 or 5 retinopathy of prematurity. Also, the need for additional laser treatment was small, with rates of complications and structural outcomes comparable to previous reports using a nonconfluent laser pattern.

[J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus 2010;47:81–85.]
Congenital Ptosis and Amblyopia
Authors: Oral Yesim , Ozgur Ozlen Rodop , Akcay Levent , Ozbas Mehmet , Dogan Omer Kamil
Published: March 2010

Purpose:

To investigate the incidence and causes of amblyopia in congenital ptosis.

Methods:

The frequency and causes of amblyopia were evaluated in 83 eyes of 72 patients with congenital ptosis. Patient ages ranged between 10 months and 70 years. Amblyopia was defined as best-corrected visual acuity of 0.7 or less. After a complete ophthalmologic examination, the amount of ptosis and levator function was determined and the following amblyogenic factors were identified: ametropia, anisometropia, and strabismus. In cases with no other reason for amblyopia, stimulus deprivation amblyopia due to ptosis was assumed.

Results:

The amount of ptosis was mild in 5 (6%), moderate in 26 (31%), and severe in 52 (63%) of 83 eyes with congenital ptosis. Strabismus was present in 17 (20%) eyes. Visual acuity could not be determined in 10 of 83 eyes with ptosis in children younger than 4 years. The overall incidence of amblyopia in the remaining 73 eyes was 48%. Of those patients with amblyopia, 54% had refactive errors such as anisometropia or ametropia, 20% had strabismus with or without refractive errors, and 26% had amblyopia solely attributed to ptosis. When all eyes with ptosis were included, the rate of stimulus deprivation amblyopia was 12% and all of these eyes had severe ptosis.

Conclusion:

Early detection and treatment of amblyogenic factors such as refractive errors and strabismus is recommended and, when the pupillary axis is occluded with severe ptotic eyelids, surgery should be performed as soon as possible to prevent stimulus deprivation amblyopia.

[J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus 2010;47:101–104]
Severe Ocular Injuries from Improperly disposed Medical Syringes in Children
Authors: Al-Hussaini Ashraf K. , Shazly Tarek A.
Published: March 2010

This report describes ocular injuries caused by syringes in children. The records of 12 children injured with syringes were reviewed. There were seven cases of endophthalmitis, two cases of panophthalmitis, one case of retinal detachment, one case of endophthalmitis with retinal detachment, and one case of traumatic cataract. All patients received treatment within 24 hours of presentation. Patients presented an average of 8.4 days after injury. Final visual acuity ranged from no light perception to counting fingers at 90 cm in eight patients and could not be assessed in four patients. Improperly disposed syringes may pose a significant risk for ocular injury and visual loss in children, especially when presentation is delayed.
[J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus 2010;47:108–110.]
Bilateral Juvenile Choroidal Neovascularization Associated With Best's Vitelliform Dystrophy: Observation Versus Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Viola Francesco , Villani Edoardo , Mapelli Chiara , Staurenghi Giovanni , Ratiglia Roberto
Published: March 2010

The authors recently observed a boy with bilateral choroidal neovascularization associated with Best's disease and compared the outcome of photodynamic therapy in one eye with the natural history of the untreated fellow eye. The final outcome of photodynamic therapy was inactive choroidal neovascularization, which seemed to be enveloped by the retinal pigment epithelium. The final appearance of the treated lesion was similar to the natural evolution of choroidal neovascularization in the untreated fellow eye.
[J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus 2010;47:121–122.]
Drinking Games and College Students: Part 2: Nursing Implications
Authors: Ahern Nancy R. , Sole Mary Lou
Published: March 2010

In Part 1 of this article, published in the February 2010 issue, the problem of drinking game participation by U.S. college students was described. College students may play these games for reasons of peer acceptance and social interaction. Unfortunately, approximately two thirds of U.S. college students participate in this risky binge drinking behavior, from which serious consequences and harms can result. In this article, implications for community and mental health nurses are discussed. Nurses in a variety of settings have unique opportunities to educate, counsel, treat, and refer these students regarding the risks and protections of this behavior.
Incidence of Nd:YAG Capsulotomy After Implantation of AcrySof Multifocal and Monofocal Intraocular Lenses: A Case Controlled Study
Authors: Shah Vipul C. , Russo Christopher , Cannon Richard , Davidson Richard , Taravella Michael J.
Published: March 2010

Purpose:

To compare the frequency of posterior capsulotomies in patients receiving a multifocal or monofocal intraocular lens (IOL) of a similar design following cataract extraction.

Methods:

Four hundred seventeen eyes underwent cataract extraction and IOL implantation; 275 eyes received the AcrySof SN60WF (Alcon Laboratories Inc) one-piece monofocal lens (monofocal group) and 142 eyes received the RESTOR multifocal lens (SN60D3 or SA60D3, Alcon Laboratories Inc) (multifocal group). Surgery was performed by two surgeons at one site. Primary outcome measures were incidence, time of onset, and preoperative corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) for those patients receiving posterior capsulotomies.

Results:

After average 22-month postoperative follow-up (range: 2 to 41 months), 22 (15.49%) eyes in the multifocal group underwent posterior capsulotomies compared with 16 (5.82%) eyes in the monofocal group (
P
=.0014). The main indication for Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy in the multifocal group was complaint of poor quality of vision rather than decreased CDVA. The multifocal group underwent capsulotomies after a mean of 8.8 months (range: 1.7 to 29.2 months), whereas the monofocal group required capsulotomies after a mean of 10.4 months (range: 0.8 to 28.6 months) (
P
=.559). Mean logMAR CDVA before capsulotomy was 0.113 (range: 0 to 0.6) for the multifocal group and 0.244 (range: 0 to 0.48) for the monofocal group (
P
=.073).

Conclusions:

Use of the RESTOR multifocal IOL in clinical practice may result in more frequent Nd:YAG laser capsulotomies. Reasons for this may include increased visual demands of patients receiving presbyopic-correcting IOLs or complex visual phenomena associated with the interaction of multifocal optics and posterior capsule opacification.
Short-Term Effect of Topical Brimonidine Tartrate on Intrastromal Corneal Pressure in Rabbits
Authors: Bolívar Gema , Teus Miguel A. , Hernández-Verdejo José L.
Published: March 2010

Purpose:

Because topical brimonidine tartrate has been reported to decrease flap adherence in the early postoperative period after LASIK, its effect on the intrastromal corneal pressure (ICP) was evaluated.

Methods:

An interventional, prospective, animal study was performed. Intrastromal corneal pressure was recorded for 45 minutes in eight eyes of rabbits treated with topical brimonidine tartrate three times daily for 3 consecutive days (study group); eight contralateral eyes were treated with artificial tears (control group). All measurements were performed by the same, masked investigator.

Results:

Mean ICP was −4.00±2.90 mmHg, −6.70±3.00 mmHg, and −9.00±4.50 mmHg at 15, 30, and 45 minutes, respectively, in the control group. In the study group (brimonidine-treated eyes), the ICP readings were +2.75±2.90 mmHg, −2.50±3.00 mmHg, and −8.50±5.00 mmHg at the same time points, respectively. The differences in the ICP between both groups were statistically significant at 15 minutes (
P
=.01), but no significant difference was found at 30 or 45 minutes (
P
=.20 and
P
=.80, respectively).

Conclusions:

Topical treatment with brimonidine tartrate induces a significant decrease in ICP at 15 minutes. This effect on ICP may explain the decreased corneal flap adherence reported in eyes treated with this drug.
Hannah Arendt y los Derechos Humanos
Authors: Mate Reyes
Published: March 2010

La Declaración de los derechos de Hombre y de Ciudadano representa un hito histórico y un referente político. Hannah Arendt es una lúcida observadora de la vinculación que se establece desde el principio de los derechos del hombre a la ciudadanía, a la pertenencia a la comunidad política, pero ésta se basa en el nacimiento en un territorio. Para quienes no pueden esgrimir esa pertenencia o hayan sido desposeídos de ella, esos derechos son una abstracción carente de vigencia.
Los componentes subjetivos de la ética de Hannah Arendt
Authors: Bueno Gómez Noelia
Published: March 2010

El objetivo de este estudio es poner de manifiesto el primado de los componentes subjetivos (no los intersubjetivos) en la ética de Hannah Arendt, frente al primado de los componentes intersubjetivos de su política. Esto no es obstáculo para que encontremos también un componente subjetivo en el ámbito político, y un componente intersubjetivo en el ámbito de la ética, ambos imprescindibles en cada una de ellas.
Los climas políticos y las responsabilidades filosóficas: La lección de Cassirer sobre Filosofía y Política (1944)
Authors: Aramayo Roberto R.
Published: March 2010

En su conferencia de 1944 sobre Filosofía y Política Ernst Cassirer expone algo que será retomado por El mito del Estado y preside buena parte de su obra. La filosofía debe rendir cuentas en cuanto responsable indirecta de ciertos climas políticos, tal como sucedió con ciertos pensadores que propiciaron la consolidación del nazismo. Las crisis de pensamiento pueden generar convulsiones políticas o sociales, porque se da una continua dialéctica entre pensadores y hombres de acción, entre las ideas y los hechos, en definitiva, entre la teoría y la práctica. Los grandes problemas histórico-políticos no pueden resolverse sin atender a las cuestiones fundamentales abordadas desde una perspectiva filosófica, toda vez que se da una insoslayable interacción entre la estructura de las ideas y la configuración de nuestra realidad político-social. El debate de Davos, La idea de la constitución republicana, El problema Jean-Jacques Rousseau y Filosofía Moral, Derecho y Metafísica: Un diálogo con Axel Hägerstrom sirven para ilustrar esta tesis que hace suya el autor del artículo, que también lo es de La quimera del Rey Filósofo.
Oxidation Resistance Behave of Stainless Steel /TiC Nano Powders
Authors: Chen Wen Yi , Zhou Jian , Liu Ying
Published: March 2010

Stainless steel/TiC nanocomposite powder were prepared by high-energy ball-milling method using 316 stainless steel powder, carbon and titanium powder as raw materials. Microstructure of the nanocomposite powder was investigated with XRD and TEM techniques. The results showed that the stainless steel/TiC nanocomposite powder obtained when the ball-milling time was more than 40 hours. DSC analysis method was used to study the characteristics of oxidation resistance and the oxidation reaction kinetics of the nanocomposites powder. Results show that the oxidant resistance of nanocomposite powder was improved, the activation energy of oxidation reaction increased.