bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Compilation of Methods and Datasets for Group and Crowd Action Recognition
Authors: Borja Luis Felipe , Azorin-Lopez Jorge , Saval-Calvo Marcelo
Published: August 2017

The human behaviour analysis has been a subject of study in various fields of science (e.g. sociology, psychology, computer science). Specifically, the automated understanding of the behaviour of both individuals and groups remains a very challenging problem from the sensor systems to artificial intelligence techniques. Being aware of the extent of the topic, the objective of this paper is to review the state of the art focusing on machine learning techniques and computer vision as sensor system to the artificial intelligence techniques. Moreover, a lack of review comparing the level of abstraction in terms of activities duration is found in the literature. In this paper, a review of the methods and techniques based on machine learning to classify group behaviour in sequence of images is presented. The review takes into account the different levels of understanding and the number of people in the group.
A Review of Infrastructures to Process Big Multimedia Data
Authors: Salvador Jaime , Ruiz Zoila , Garcia-Rodriguez Jose
Published: August 2017

In the last years, the volume of information is growing faster than ever before, moving from small to huge, structured to unstructured datasets like text, image, audio and video. The purpose of processing the data is aimed to extract relevant information on trends, challenges and opportunities; all these studies with large volumes of data. The increase in the power of parallel computing enabled the use of Machine Learning (ML) techniques to take advantage of the processing capabilities offered by new architectures on large volumes of data. For this reason, it is necessary to find mechanisms that allow classify and organize them to facilitate to the users the extraction of the required information. The processing of these data requires the use of classification techniques that will be reviewed. This work analyzes different studies carried out on the use of ML for processing large volumes of data (Big Multimedia Data) and proposes a classification, using as criteria, the hardware infrastructures used in works of machine learning parallel approaches applied to large volumes of data.
Automatic Learning Improves Human-Robot Interaction in Productive Environments
Authors: Hernandez Mauricio Andres Zamora , Marin Eldon Caldwell , Garcia-Rodriguez Jose , Azorin-Lopez Jorge , Cazorla Miguel
Published: August 2017

In the creation of new industries, products and services -- all of which are advances of the Fourth Industrial Revolution -- the human-robot interaction that includes automatic learning and computer vision are elements to consider since they promote collaborative environments between people and robots. The use of machine learning and computer vision provides the tools needed to increase productivity and minimizes delivery reaction times by assisting in the optimization of complex production planning processes. This review of the state of the art presents the main trends that seek to improve human-robot interaction in productive environments, and identifies challenges in research as well as in industrial - technological development in this topic. In addition, this review offers a proposal on the needs of use of artificial intelligence in all processes of industry 4.0 as a crucial linking element among humans, robots, intelligent and traditional machines; as well as a mechanism for quality control and occupational safety.
Sustainable Consumerism via Context-Aware Shopping
Authors: Klinglmayr Johannes , Bergmair Bernhard , Klaffenböck Maria Anneliese , Hörmann LeanderB. , Pournaras Evangelos
Published: August 2017

We are living in a world of vast information. The means of the Internet allow access to diverse sources of information, with social media and Internet of Things technologies significantly expanding the informational ecosystem. With the use of social media, it is easy for ‘like-minded' people to group up and initiate movements. One way to articulate such movements is via political consumerism. Users group together and boycott or buycott (boost purchases) for certain products with a concrete collective goal in mind. If, however, the collective goal is vague and abstract, as in the case of sustainability, this bottom-up strategy may lose its popularity and attraction. In this paper, we introduce a new concept of how individual consumers can follow their own understanding of sustainability, while at the same time benefiting from collective and participatory actions. We discuss how the means of ICT can be used to develop political consumerism further to transform individual policies into collective statements.
Virtualization of University Education
Authors: Gyamfi Samuel Adu , Gyaase Patrick Ohemeng
Published: August 2017

The increasing intake of students in tertiary institutions has resulted in large classes sizes in the universities in Ghana with the attendant reduction in quality in teaching and learning. This study was carried out to assess the impact of integrating ICT to teaching and learning in Universities on students' performance. This study adopted formative experimental approach using Moodle, an online learning platform to supplement the traditional face-face lecturing. This was carried out using seventy-five first year students on a communication skills course over two semesters. The Students' score in four learning outcomes were collected before and after the experiment. The data were quantitatively analyzed and compared to identify the impact of the ICT-mediated learning environment on students' performance. The results showed marked improvement in the students' performance in all aspects of communication skills. The lecturers of the course also confirmed improvements in students' performance, engagement and participation in the course compared to previous years.
A Highly Reliable Storage Systems Based on SSD Array for IoE Environment
Authors: Ahn HooYoung , Kim Junsu , Lee YoonJoon
Published: August 2017

Devices in IoE (Internet of Everything) environment generate massive data from various sensors. To store and process the rapidly incoming large-scale data, SSDs are used for improving performance and reliability of storage systems. However, they have typical problem called write amplification which is caused by out-of-place updates characteristics. As the write amplification increases, it degrades I/O performance and shortens SSDs' lifetime. This paper presents a new approach to reduce write amplification of SSD arrays. To solve the problem, this paper proposes a new parity update scheme, called LPUS. LPUS transforms random parity updates to sequential writes with additional log blocks in SSD arrays by using parity logs and lazy parity updates. The experimental results show that, LPUS reduces write amplification up to 37% and the number of erases up to 50% with the reasonable size of log space.
Effective Integration of Reliable Routing Mechanism and Energy Efficient Node Placement Technique for Low Power IoT Networks
Authors: Sarwesh P. , Shet N. Shekar V. , Chandrasekaran K.
Published: August 2017

Internet of Things (IoT) is the emerging technology that links physical devices (sensor devices) with cyber systems and allows global sharing of information. In IoT applications, devices are operated by battery power and low power radio links, which are constrained by energy. In this paper, node placement technique and routing mechanism are effectively integrated in single network architecture to prolong the lifetime of IoT network. In proposed network architecture, sensor node and relay node are deployed, sensor nodes are responsible for collecting the environmental data and relay nodes are responsible for data aggregation and path computation. In node placement technique, densities of relay nodes are varied based on traffic area, to prevent energy hole problem. In routing technique, energy efficient and reliable path computation is done to reduce number of re transmissions. To adopt IoT scenario, we included IEEE 802.15.4 PHY/MAC radio and IPv6 packet structure in proposed network architecture. Proposed work result shows, proposed architecture prolongs network lifetime.
A Framework for Effective Data Analytics for Tourism Sector
Authors: Sinha Sapna , Bhatnagar Vishal , Bansal Abhay
Published: August 2017

From BRICS nations, India is the second largest tourism market after China in Asia. Technological revolution has added new dimensions to the way technologies being used in all the sectors. Also, the use of electronic gadgets leaves trail of data, which is very huge in size, this data (Big Data) is exploited by every sector for providing better services and gaining competitive edge. This trend grabbed the attention of researchers and industry for development of more optimized tools and techniques. There are many general frameworks proposed by industry and researchers for implementation of Big Data in industry but, there is no framework proposed for tourism sector. In this paper, the authors propose unified IT infrastructure framework named as tAdvisor for effective data analytics using Big Data Analytics approach for increasing productivity in tourism sector. Various challenges and issues related with the implementation of Big Data Analytics is also discussed in the paper.
Fog Computing
Authors: Bhatt Chintan , Bhensdadia C. K.
Published: August 2017

The Internet of Things could be a recent computing paradigm, defined by networks of extremely connected things – sensors, actuators and good objects – communication across networks of homes, buildings, vehicles, and even individuals whereas cloud computing could be ready to keep up with current processing and machine demands. Fog computing provides architectural resolution to deal with some of these issues by providing a layer of intermediate nodes what's referred to as an edge network [26]. These edge nodes provide interoperability, real-time interaction, and if necessary, computational to the Cloud. This paper tries to analyse different fog computing functionalities, tools and technologies and research issues.
News Headline Building using Hybrid Headline Generation Technique for Quick Gist
Authors: Shrawankar Urmila , Wankhede Kranti
Published: August 2017

A considerable amount of time is required to interpret whole news article to get the gist of it. Therefore, in order to reduce the reading and interpretation time, headlines are necessary. The available techniques for news headline construction mainly includes extractive and abstractive headline generation techniques. In this paper, context based news headline is formed from long news article by using techniques of core Natural Language Processing (NLP) and key terms of news article. Key terms are retrieved from lengthy news article by using various approaches of keyword extraction. The keyphrases are picked out using Keyphrase Extraction Algorithm (KEA) which helps to construct headline syntax along with NLP's parsing technique. Sentence compression algorithm helps to generate compressed sentences from generated parse tree of leading sentences. Headline helps user for reducing cognitive burden of reader by reflecting important contents of news. The objective is to frame headline using key terms for reducing reading time and efforts of reader.
Conversion of Tactile Sign Language into English for Deaf/Dumb Interaction
Authors: Shrawankar Urmila , Dixit Sayli
Published: August 2017

Natural language is the way of communication for normal human beings which includes spoken language, written and body gestures i.e. head gesture, hand gestures, facial expressions and lip motion etc. On the other hand, speech and hearing-impaired people uses sign language for communication which is not understandable for normal people thus they face problems of communication in society. In this problem interpreters are required but the human interpreters are costly and are not an efficient solution. Thus, there is a need of system which will translate the sign language into normal language which will be understandable by normal. The system proposed and explained in the paper is an efficient solution to this problem. In the system, sign recognition is done using CAMSHIFT and P2DHHM algorithm followed by Haar Cascade Classifier. After sign recognition, the language technology techniques of POS tagging and LALR parser are used to convert recognized sign words into English sentence. Till date no any system has worked on sentence framing. Results shows that this system produces 92% of accurate result which will bridge the gap between impaired and Normal people.
The Effects of Utilizing Social Media Tools During Crisis from Public Relations Practitioners' Views in the UAE
Authors: Mohamed Hamza Saad
Published: August 2017

Despite growing interest in social media over the last few years all over the world, there is a lack of empirical studies on the extent to which PR practitioners in the UAE are using social media tools, and in particular, during crisis. Consequently, this study is designed to bridge this gap in research. The study aims to bring to attention the dynamics of using social media among public PR practitioners during crisis in one of the Gulf countries -countries that have different economic, social and political contexts. The current study is considered one of the pioneer studies in the public relations' field in the UAE which aims to investigate how public relations practitioners are using social media tools in crisis. It also explores public relations practitioners' perceptions and attitudes towards using social media during crisis. A random sample of 160 PR practitioners was selected from different public and private organizations in the UAE. The results indicated that PR practitioners are active and heavy social media users in their organizations during crisis. Furthermore, the study confirmed that the most commonly used communication strategies were compensation, corrective action and justification. Additionally, the study suggested that the organization's websites and Twitter were the most effective social media tools used during a crisis.
Impact of Interest and FX Rate on Breach of DSCR in Project Finance
Authors: Jong Chol Han , Park Min Jae
Published: August 2017

Project financing (PF) is a technique that lenders finance based on a project's future cash flow and asset value. PF based on business feasibility has emerged and is being adopted in the global market to promote and facilitate infrastructure projects. In this study, key financial factors impacting the status of project finance will be reviewed. System dynamics model of causal relations between the factors will be created, utilizing the stock-flow diagram and simulated with time series data available for the key elements, using Monte Carlo simulation. In particular, the authors will start with a hypothesis that a financial covenant will provide a strong link with default situation of a project and the debt coverage service rate (DSCR) has the function. Volatilities of interest rate and FX rate will be examined regarding the sensitivity towards the DSCR. This article will eventually present the theoretical basis for the decision behavior of hedging to mitigate fluctuation risks of financial factors and some implications.
Construction Basis of C2C E-commerce Credit Evaluation Index
Authors: Peng Hua
Published: August 2017

C2C e-commerce rapidly develops, which is an important economic pillar. With the deepening of the network life, more and more people join the C2C e-commerce transactions. However, the credit problem of C2C e-commerce has serious hidden security problems. So, the paper analyzes the present situation of C2C e-commerce credit problem and points out the existing problems. Scientifically, systematically, validity, feasibility and comparability are taken as principles to establish the first level indicators that including commodity property, business services, and logistics services and to establish the secondary indicators that reasonable price, timely delivery and so on. Using AHP, the weight of each level indicator can be calculated. C2C e-commerce evaluation model is established. Then the model is improved on transaction amount and evaluation time, so it can provide a theoretical basis for C2C e-commerce credit evaluation system.
The Online Reviews' Effects on Internet Consumer Behavior
Authors: Zhang Mingli , Ding Suyun , Bian Yuanwei
Published: August 2017

Consumer behaviors have always been the hot spot of the study. With the arrival of the network age and the popularity of e-commerce, the consumption pattern of shopping online is beginning. Until December of 2014, there were 649 million Internet users in China, and it's increasing. In the year of 2014, the number of most mainstream online shoppers has increased by 23.7% and shopping online has become an irresistible trend. New consumption mode can produce a new research subject, the study of Internet consumer behaviors becomes very important. This article used LocoySpider, a data mining software, to mine Taobao online reviews. Through the analysis of online reviews, we can study the effect of online reviews on consumer behaviors. During the study, we set the risk perception as intermediary variable. By the study, we can help the electronic commercial enterprises to attract customers, retain customers and reduce the information search cost.
Managing Care of Critically Ill Bariatric Patients
Authors: Holsworth Cheryl , Gallagher Susan
Published: August 2017

Nearly 160 million Americans are overweight, obese, or morbidly obese. Morbid obesity and its numerous comorbidities are threats to a person’s health. Moreover, hospitalized individuals living with adiposity-based chronic conditions are at risk for certain immobility hazards. Many individuals who are morbidly obese look to metabolic surgery as a means for achieving sustainable weight loss. This article addresses critical care needs of people living with excess weight or weight maldistribution, along with specific needs of those undergoing metabolic surgery.
Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharide stimulation in human periodontal ligament stem cells: role of epigenetic modifications to the inflammation
Authors: Diomede Francesca , Thangavelu Soundara Rajan , Merciaro Ilaria , D'Orazio Monica , Bramanti Placido , Mazzon Emanuela , Trubiani Oriana
Published: August 2017

Periodontitis is a chronic oral inflammatory disease produced by bacteria. Gingival retraction and bone and connective tissues resorption are the hallmarks of this disease. Chronic periodontitis may contribute to the risk of onset or progression of neuroinflammatory pathological conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease. The main goal of the present study was to investigate if the role of epigenetic modulations is involved in periodontitis using human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs) as an in vitro model system. hPDLSCs were treated with lipopolysaccharide of Porphyromonas gingivalis and the expression of proteins associated with DNA methylation and histone acetylation, such as DNMT1 and p300, respectively, and inflammatory transcription factor NF-kB, were examined. Immunofluorescence, Western blot and next generation sequencing results demonstrated that P. gingivalis lipopolysaccharide significantly reduced DNA methylase DNMT1, while it markedly upregulated the level of histone acetyltransferase p300 and NF-kB in hPDLSCs. Our results showed that P. gingivalis lipopolysaccharide markedly regulate the genes involved in epigenetic mechanism, which may result in inflammation induction. We propose that P. gingivalis lipopolysaccharide-treated hPDLSCs could be a potential in vitro model system to study epigenetics modulations associated with periodontitis, which might be helpful to identify novel biomarkers linked to this oral inflammatory disease.
Evaluation of industrial relations mechanism in trade dispute settlement in Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (2003–2015)
Authors: Otohinoyi Samuel , Oboromeni Weinoh , Christopher Seth I.
Published: August 2017

Trade unions encounter conflicts in their work environment which are referred to as trade disputes. Nigerian laws have provided legal, institutional and administrative mechanisms for the resolution of trade disputes like the Trade Disputes Act. The study assessed the effectiveness of industrial relations mechanisms in trade dispute settlement. Data for the study were generated from primary and secondary sources. The instrument of primary data utilised includes questionnaires and interview methods; secondary sources include published and unpublished materials. The instruments were used on the respondents to test the two hypotheses formulated; qualitative and quantitative methods of data analyses were also used in the study with more emphasis on the quantitative method using chi-square statistical tool to test the hypotheses. The study revealed that industrial relations mechanism process promotes industrial harmony in Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria. Besides, the study found that breach of collective agreement leads to trade disputes in ABU, Zaria. The study recommended that industrial relations mechanism process as stipulated in the Trade Dispute Act should be strictly adhered to as it promotes industrial harmony. Also, collective agreement reached by the actors during their round table discussion or collective bargaining process should be complied with by all the parties involved as it was the outcome of their round table discussion which both parties actively participated in.
‘I was a Girl of my Time’: A feminist literary analysis of representations of time and gender in selected contemporary South African fiction by women
Authors: Murray Jessica
Published: August 2017

This article offers a feminist literary analysis of selected contemporary South African texts by women writers in order to explore how they represent female characters’ engagement with conventional understandings of time and its chronological and linear progression. These engagements are represented as being particularly fraught for women characters as they find themselves constrained by various temporally located constructions of femininity even as they attempt to heed the temporally dislocated voices of gendered trauma that consistently speak through their bodies. In this article, my focus will be on Bridget Pitt’s novel, Notes from the Lost Property Department (2015), Elleke Boehmer’s The Shouting in the Dark (2015) and Mohale Mashigo’s The Yearning (2016). Despite frequent references to the importance of temporality in making sense of the experiences of the female protagonists, there has been a dearth of scholarly attention to the complexities of the intersections between gender, time and trauma in contemporary South African fiction by women. While gender violence and trauma are topics that have received extensive critical scrutiny in South African literary studies, this article demonstrates that the inclusion of temporality in the analytical framework enables a richer and more nuanced reading of the experiences of the female characters in the selected texts.
Hypofractionation and prostate cancer: A good option for Africa?
Authors: Incrocci Luca , Heijmen Ben , Kupelian Patrick , Simonds Hannah M.
Published: August 2017

Cancer is an emerging public health problem in Africa. According to the World Health Organization, the numbers will be doubled by 2030 because of the ageing and the growth of the population. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in most African countries. Radiotherapy machines are extremely limited in Africa and therefore prostate cancer in Africa is mostly managed by urologists. However, for a large proportion of prostate cancer patients, external-beam radiotherapy (EBRT) will be the treatment of choice in Africa because of limitations of surgical expertise in many countries. The disparity between the α/β ratio for late complications and the low α/β ratio for prostate cancer widens the therapeutic window when treating prostate cancer with hypofractionation. Because of the reduced number of treatment days, hypofractionation offers economic and logistic advantages, reducing the burden of the very limited radiotherapy resources in most African countries. It also increases patient convenience. A misleading assumption is that high-level radiotherapy is not feasible in low-income countries. The gold standard option for hypofractionation includes daily image-guided radiotherapy with 3–4 implanted gold fiducials. Acceptable methods for image guidance include ultrasound and cone-beam computed tomography (CT). CT-based treatment planning with magnetic resonance imaging fusion allows for accurate volume delineation. Volumetric modulated arc therapy or inversely planned intensity modulated radiotherapy is the ideal for treatment delivery. The most vital component is safe delivery, which necessitates accurate quality assurance measures and on-board imaging. We will review the evidence and potential utilisation of hypofractionated EBRT in Africa.
Behavior of Injured Lamina in Lumbar Burst Fractures during Reduction Maneuvers: A Biomechanical Study
Authors: Acar Nihat
Published: August 2017

Study Design

An experimental biomechanical study.

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the behavior of a lamina injury in lumbar burst fractures during reduction maneuvers.

Overview of Literature

Lumbar burst fractures are frequently accompanied by a lamina fracture. Many researchers concluded that any reduction maneuver will close the fractured lamina edges and possibly crush the entrapped neural elements. This conclusion did not rely on solid biomechanical trials and was based primarily on clinical experience.

Methods

Eighteen fresh-frozen lamb spines were randomly divided into three groups. Using the preinjury and the dropped-mass technique, a burst fracture model was developed. A central laminectomy of 5 mm of the L3 lumbar spine was created to mimic a complete type of lamina fracture. To measure the movement of the fractured laminar edges, two holes were drilled on both sides of the upper and lower regions of the lamina to allow for optic marker placement. A single specific spine movement was applied to each group: traction, flexion, and extension. Gap changes were measured by camera extensometers.

Results

After traction, the average values of the upper and lower aspects of the lamina interval showed narrowing of 1.65±0.82 mm and 1.97±1.14 mm, respectively. No statistical significance was detected between the two aspects. The upper and lower regions of the lamina gap behaved differently during extension. At 10°, 20°, and 30°, the upper part of the lamina interval was widened by an average of 0.016±0.024, 0.29±0.32, and 1.73±1.45 mm, respectively, whereas the lower part was narrowed by an average of 0.023±0.012, 0.47±0.038, and 1.94±1.46 mm, respectively.

Conclusions

Neural element crushing may take place, particularly at the lower aspect of the fractured lamina gap during extension and throughout the whole lamina gap during traction. The lamina gap widens during flexion. Reduction maneuvers should be attempted after exploring the fractured lamina to prevent further neurological compromise.
Posterior-Only Approach with Pedicle Screws for the Correction of Scheuermann's Kyphosis
Authors: Cobden Adem , Albayrak Akif , Camurcu Yalkin , Sofu Hakan , Tacal Temel , Kaygusuz Mehmet Akif
Published: August 2017

Study Design

Retrospective study (level of evidence: level 3).

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiological results of the posterior-only approach with pedicle screws for the treatment of Scheuermann's kyphosis (SK).

Overview of Literature

The correction of SK with instrumentation can be performed using posterior-only or combined anterior-posterior procedures. With the use of all-pedicle screw constructs in spine surgery, the posterior-only approach has become a popular option for the definitive treatment of SK. In a nationwide study involving 2,796 patients, a trend toward posterior-only fusion with lower complication rates was reported.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the data of patients who underwent posterior-only correction for SK between January 2005 and May 2013. Patients with a definite diagnosis of SK who fulfilled the minimum follow-up criterion of 24 months were included. The thoracic kyphosis (T5–T12), lumbar lordosis (L1–S1), and thoracolumbar junction (T10–L2) angles were measured from preoperative, postoperative, and last control radiographs. Sagittal balance, thoracic length, thoracic diameter, Voutsinas index and the sacral slope, pelvic tilt, proximal junction kyphosis, and distal junction kyphosis angles were also measured.

Results

Forty-five patients underwent surgery for the treatment of SK between 2005 and 2013. After applying the exclusion criteria, 20 patients (18 males and 2 females) with a mean age of 19 years were included. The mean thoracic kyphosis angle was 79.8 degrees preoperatively, 44.6 degrees postoperatively, and 44.9 degrees at the last control. There were statistically significant differences between preoperative and postoperative values in the thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis angles, thoracic length, thoracic diameter, and Voutsinas index (p<0.05).

Conclusions

The clinical and radiological results of the current study suggest that posterior-only fusion is an efficient technique for the treatment of SK.
Evaluation of Sagittal Spine-Pelvis-Lower Limb Alignment in Elderly Women with Pelvic Retroversion while Standing and Walking Using a Three-Dimensional Musculoskeletal Model
Authors: Sasaki Ken , Hongo Michio , Miyakoshi Naohisa , Matsunaga Toshiki , Yamada Shin , Kijima Hiroaki , Shimada Yoichi
Published: August 2017

Study Design

In vivo biomechanical study using a three-dimensional (3D) musculoskeletal model for elderly individuals with or without pelvic retroversion.

Purpose

To evaluate the effect of pelvic retroversion on the sagittal alignment of the spine, pelvis, and lower limb in elderly females while standing and walking.

Overview of Literature

Patients with hip–spine syndrome have concurrent hip-joint and spine diseases. However, the dynamic sagittal alignment between the hip joint and spine has rarely been investigated. We used a 3D musculoskeletal model to evaluate global spinopelvic parameters, including spinal inclination and pelvic tilt (PT).

Methods

A total of 32 ambulant females (mean age=78 years) without assistance were enrolled in the study. On the basis of the radiographic measurement for PT, participants were divided into the pelvic retroversion group (R-group; PT≥20°) and the normal group (N-group; PT<20°). A 3D musculoskeletal motion analysis system was used to analyze the calculated value for the alignment of spine, pelvis, and lower limb, including calculated (C)-PT, sagittal vertical axis (C-SVA), pelvic incidence, lumbar lordosis, T1 pelvic angle (C-TPA), as well as knee and hip flexion angles while standing and walking.

Results

While standing, C-PT and C-TPA in the R-group were significantly larger than those in the N-group. Hip angle was significantly smaller in the R-group than in the N-group, unlike knee angle, which did not show difference. While walking, C-SVA and C-TPA were significantly increased, whereas C-PT decreased compared with those while standing. The maximum hip-flexion angle was significantly smaller in the R-group than in the N-group. There was a significant correlation between the radiographic and calculated parameters.

Conclusions

The 3D musculoskeletal model was useful in evaluating the sagittal alignment of the spine, pelvis, and leg. Spinopelvic sagittal alignment showed deterioration while walking. C-PT was significantly decreased while walking in the R-group, indicating possible compensatory mechanisms attempting to increase coverage of the femoral head. The reduction in the hip flexion angle in the R-group was also considered as a compensatory mechanism.
Functional and Radiological Outcomes of Anterior Decompression and Posterior Stabilization via Posterior Transpedicular Approach in Thoracic and Thoracolumbar Pott's Disease: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Singh Suryakant , Dawar Hitesh , Das Kalidutta , Mohapatra Bibhudendu , Prasad Somya
Published: August 2017

Study Design

This is a retrospective study.

Purpose

To determine the efficacy and safety of a posterior transpedicular approach with regard to functional and radiological outcomes in people with thoracic and thoracolumbar spinal tuberculosis.

Overview of Literature

Spinal tuberculosis can cause serious morbidity, including permanent neurological deficits and severe deformities. Medical treatment or a combination of medical and surgical strategies can control the disease in most patients, thereby decreasing morbidity incidence. A debate always existed regarding whether to achieve both decompression and stabilization via a combined anterior and posterior approach or a single posterior approach exists.

Methods

The study was conducted at the Indian Spinal injuries Centre and included all patients with thoracic and thoracolumbar Pott's disease who were operated via a Posterior transpedicular approach. Data regarding 60 patients were analyzed with respect to the average operation time, preoperative and postoperative, 6 months and final follow-up American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) grading, bony fusion, implant loosening, implant failure, preoperative, postoperative, 6 months and final follow-up kyphotic angles, a loss of kyphotic correction, Oswestry disability index (ODI) score, and visual analog scale (VAS) score. Data were analyzed using either a paired t -test or a Wilcoxon Signed Rank test.

Results

The mean operation time was 260±30 minutes. Fifty-five patients presented with evidence of successful bony fusion within a mean period of 6±1.5 months. Preoperative dorsal and lumbar angles were significantly larger than postoperative angles, which were smaller than final follow-up angles. The mean kyphotic correction achieved was 12.11±14.8, with a mean decrease of 5.97 and 19.1 in VAS and ODI scores, respectively.

Conclusions

Anterior decompression and posterior stabilization via a posterior transpedicular approach are safe and effective procedures, with less intraoperative surgical duration and significant improvements in clinical and functional status.
An Updated Overview of Low Back Pain Management in Primary Care
Authors: Hong Jae-Young , Song Kwang-Sup , Cho Jae Hwan , Lee Jae Hyup
Published: August 2017

Currently, guidelines for lower back pain (LBP) treatment are needed. We reviewed the current guidelines and high-quality articles to confirm the LBP guidelines for the Korean Society of Spine Surgery. We searched available databases for high-quality articles in English on LBP published from 2000 to the present year. Literature searches using these guidelines included studies from MEDLINE, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Embase. We analyzed a total of 132 randomized clinical trials, 116 systematic reviews, 9 meta-analyses, and 4 clinical guideline reviews. We adopted the SIGN checklist for the assessment of article quality. Data were subsequently abstracted by a reviewer and verified. Many treatment options exist for LBP, with a variety of recommendation grades. We assessed the recommendation grade for general behavior, pharmacological therapy, psychological therapy, and specific exercises. This information should be helpful to physicians in the treatment of LBP patients.
Role of Color Doppler Ultrasonography in Differentiation of Graves’ Disease from Thyroiditis: A Prospective Study
Authors: Suresh Rv , Sundarram, KS Thalavai , Sadacharan, Dhalapathy , Ravikumar, Krishnan , Kalpana, S
Published: August 2017

Introduction

Thyrotoxicosis due to Graves’ disease (GD) and destructive thyroiditis (DT) needs differentiation, as management strategy differs. Factors that help in diagnosis are biochemical and nuclear imaging. Utility of high-resolution ultrasonography (HRUSG) and color Doppler (CD) in differentiation is not widely practiced. We undertook the prospective study in the Department of Endocrine Surgery at a tertiary care center among South Indian population in 1 year as a cost-effective model

Materials and methods

Out of 120 newly diagnosed thyrotoxicosis patients, 54 were GD (group I) and 66 were DT (group II) patients. Totally, 55 euthyroid patients served as controls. Parameters analyzed were demography, free thyroid function test (TFT) anti-thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor antibody (TSHrAB), antithyroid peroxidase antibody (ATPO), anti-thyroglobulin antibody (ATG), and Tc-99m thyroid scintigraphy. Parameters analyzed using HRUSG and CD were peak systolic velocity (PSV), end-diastolic volume (EDV), pulsatility index (PI), resistive index (RI) of bilateral superior thyroid artery (STA) and inferior thyroid artery (ITA).

Results

Both groups were age and sex matched. The TFT, ATPO, and ATG were comparable between both groups (p = 0.609). The TSHrAB (IU/mL) was significantly higher in group I (36.11 ± 0.82) than group II (1.23 ± 0.24) (p < 0.001). Mean thyroid volume (mL) was higher in group I (28.9 ± 14.9) than group II (26.2 ± 8.81) (p = 0.022). Mean PSV-STA (cm/s) was statistically higher in group I (54.09 ± 4.67) than group II (28.92 ± 4.39) (p ≤ 0.001). Mean PSV-ITA (cm/s) was higher in group I (32.11 ± 2.45) than group II (25.23 ± 3.45) (p = 0.006). Other parameters measured in both arteries like mean EDV (cm/s), mean RI, and mean PI were comparable between both groups.

Conclusion

The HRUSG with CD evaluation of PSV STA and ITA is a cost-effective alternative to TSHrAB and thyroid scintigraphy in differentiating GD from DT patients. Additionally, we observed that PSV in STA was higher than in ITA in patients with GD. To conclude, HRUSG and CD are simple, cost-effective, and widely available tools in the differentiation of GD from DT.

How to cite this article

Sundarram KST, Sadacharan D, Ravikumar K, Kalpana S, Suresh RV. Role of Color Doppler Ultrasonography in Differentiation of Graves’ Disease from Thyroiditis: A Prospective Study. World J Endoc Surg 2017;9(2):41-45.
Lingual Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma with Bilateral Neck Node Metastasis
Authors: Singh Sachender Pal , Jain Devendra K , Das, Subhabrata
Published: August 2017

Incidence of ectopic thyroid tissue is 1 in every 100,000 to 300,000 in general population and lingual thyroid is the most common ectopic site (90%). The number of reported neoplasms occurring in this tissue seems disproportionately small when compared with the frequency of tumor formation in the normally placed thyroid. Till now only 51 cases of lingual thyroid cancer have been reported in the literature.

We are reporting a case of lingual thyroid carcinoma with bilateral cervical metastasis and absent orthotopic thyroid gland. In our case we approach the tumor via midline lip splitting with lateral mandibulotomy approach which provides us a good exposure of the entire oropharynx (tumor). We have managed the tumor according to the guidelines of differentiated thyroid cancer because of non availability of guidelines for ectopic thyroid cancer. After surgical excision of lingual thyroid and neck dissection radioiodine therapy was given.

The surgical approach to a lingual thyroid cancer as well as adjuvant therapy and natural history remains to be ascertained due to the rarity of the disease. Lip splitting with lateral mandibulotomy and swing approach appears to give adequate exposure to lingual thyroid.

How to cite this article

Singh SP, Das S, Jain DK. Lingual Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma with Bilateral Neck Node Metastasis. World J Endoc Surg 2017;9(2):68-71.
Mini-implant supported Orthodontic Molar Intrusion: An Unconventional Approach for Pre-implant Prosthetics
Authors: Mehta Prathmesh R , Bhimani Rishi A , Badavannavar Anand N
Published: August 2017

Aim

To demonstrate two cases in which mini-implant-supported orthodontic molar intrusion has been performed to regain ideal crown height space (CHS) for implant prosthesis.

Background

Tooth loss is associated with esthetic, functional, and psychological consequences on an individual. Replacement of missing teeth by dental implants has gained significant importance due to promising advantages of implants over conventional prosthesis. Edentulism often results in supra-eruption of antagonistic teeth into the edentulous site, resulting in reduced vertical dimension for tooth replacement, posing a restorative challenge for clinicians. Hence, it is necessary to regain the lost vertical dimension prior to the implant prosthesis, either conventionally by endodontic and prosthetic intervention or by orthodontic intrusion with the aid of temporary anchorage devices (TADs). Mini-implants are a category of TADs that provide a minimally invasive technique for molar intrusion.

Case report

Two patients with missing mandibular molars desiring tooth replacement presented with supra-eruption of antagonist teeth, posing a difficulty during prosthetic treatment. Orthodontic intrusion using mini-implants was performed to regain the lost vertical space simultaneously along with dental implant placement followed by prosthetic rehabilitation.

Conclusion

The present twin case report demonstrates the successful role of mini-implants in orthodontic molar intrusion for establishing an ideal CHS for implant prosthesis to reestablish masticatory function.

Clinical significance

The twin case report demonstrates mini-implant-supported orthodontic molar intrusion as a replacement for conventional gross tooth reduction, for regaining the lost vertical space in cases of supra-eruption of maxillary molar associated with edentulism.

How to cite this article

Mehta PR, Bhimani RA, Badavannavar AN. Mini-implant supported Orthodontic Molar Intrusion: An Unconventional Approach for Pre-implant Prosthetics. Int J Oral Implantol Clin Res 2017;8(1):26-30.
Fractured Miniscrew Retrieval through Flapless Vibration Technique: A Mini Review and Case Report
Authors: Rath Sunil K , Swain Choudhury S , Panda Subhashree M
Published: August 2017

Nowadays, miniscrew anchorage system is encouraged to obtain better results in orthodontic treatment. This system also brings emergency complications like fractures during insertion of these miniscrews. According to protocol flap-raising technique, a periodontist should be consulted during retrieval of the fractured miniscrew. Here, we propose a new technique that can retrieve the fractured implant with uneventful healing by the vibration of micromotor blunt burs or ultrasonic scaler tips with reinsertion in 7 days.

How to cite this article

Rath SK, Swain CS, Panda SM. Fractured Miniscrew Retrieval through Flapless Vibration Technique: A Mini Review and Case Report. Int J Oral Implantol Clin Res 2017;8(1):31-33.
PathfinderTURB: an automatic boundary layer algorithm. Development, validation and application to study the impact on in situ measurements at the Jungfraujoch
Authors: Poltera Yann , Martucci Giovanni , Collaud Coen Martine , Hervo Maxime , Emmenegger Lukas , Henne Stephan , Brunner Dominik , Haefele Alexander
Published: August 2017

Abstract. We present the development of the PathfinderTURB algorithm for the analysis of ceilometer backscatter data and the real-time detection of the vertical structure of the planetary boundary layer. Two aerosol layer heights are retrieved by PathfinderTURB: the convective boundary layer (CBL) and the continuous aerosol layer (CAL). PathfinderTURB combines the strengths of gradient- and variance-based methods and addresses the layer attribution problem by adopting a geodesic approach. The algorithm has been applied to 1 year of data measured by two ceilometers of type CHM15k, one operated at the Aerological Observatory of Payerne (491 m a.s.l.) on the Swiss plateau and one at the Kleine Scheidegg (2061 m a.s.l.) in the Swiss Alps. The retrieval of the CBL has been validated at Payerne using two reference methods: (1) manual detections of the CBL height performed by human experts using the ceilometer backscatter data; (2) values of CBL heights calculated using the Richardson's method from co-located radio sounding data. We found average biases as small as 27 m (53 m) with respect to reference method 1 (method 2). Based on the excellent agreement between the two reference methods, PathfinderTURB has been applied to the ceilometer data at the mountainous site of the Kleine Scheidegg for the period September 2014 to November 2015. At this site, the CHM15k is operated in a tilted configuration at 71° zenith angle to probe the atmosphere next to the Sphinx Observatory (3580 m a.s.l.) on the Jungfraujoch (JFJ). The analysis of the retrieved layers led to the following results: the CAL reaches the JFJ 41 % of the time in summer and 21 % of the time in winter for a total of 97 days during the two seasons. The season-averaged daily cycles show that the CBL height reaches the JFJ only during short periods (4 % of the time), but on 20 individual days in summer and never during winter. During summer in particular, the CBL and the CAL modify the air sampled in situ at JFJ, resulting in an unequivocal dependence of the measured absorption coefficient on the height of both layers. This highlights the relevance of retrieving the height of CAL and CBL automatically at the JFJ.
Concentrations and source regions of light absorbing impurities in snow/ice in northern Pakistan and their impact on snow albedo
Authors: Gul Chaman , Puppala Siva Praveen , Kang Shichang , Adhikary Bhupesh , Zhang Yulan , Ali Shaukat , Li Yang , Li Xiaofei
Published: August 2017

Abstract. Black carbon (BC), water-insoluble organic carbon (OC), and mineral dust are important particulate impurities in snow and ice, which significantly reduce albedo and accelerate melting. Surface snow and ice samples were collected from the Karakoram–Himalayan region of northern Pakistan during 2015 and 2016 in summer (six glaciers), autumn (two glaciers), and winter (six mountain valleys). The average BC concentration overall was 2130 ± 1560 ngg−1 in summer samples, 2883 ± 3439 ngg−1 in autumn samples, and 992 ± 883 ngg−1 in winter samples. The average water insoluble OC concentration overall was 1839 ± 1108 ngg−1 in summer samples, 1423 ± 208 ngg−1 in autumn samples, and 1342 ± 672 ngg−1 in winter samples. The overall concentration of BC, OC, and dust in aged snow samples collected during the summer campaign was higher than the concentration in ice samples. The values are relatively high compared to reports by others for the Himalayas and Tibetan Plateau. This is probably the result of taking more representative samples at lower elevation where deposition is higher and the effects of ageing and enrichment more marked. A reduction in snow albedo of 0.1–8.3 % for fresh snow and 0.9–32.5 % for aged snow was calculated for selected solar zenith angles during day time using the Snow, Ice, and Aerosol Radiation (SNICAR) model. Daily mean albedo was reduced by 0.07–12.0 %. The calculated radiative forcing ranged from 0.16 to 43.45 Wm−2 depending on snow type, solar zenith angle, and location. The potential source regions of the deposited pollutants were identified using spatial variance in wind vector maps, emission inventories coupled with backward air trajectories, and simple region tagged chemical transport modelling. Central, South, and West Asia were the major sources of pollutants during the sampling months, with only a small contribution from East Asia. Analysis based on the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF-STEM) chemical transport model identified a significant contribution (more than 70 %) from South Asia at selected sites. Research into the presence and effect of pollutants in the glaciated areas of Pakistan is economically significant because the surface water resources in the country mainly depend on the rivers (the Indus and its tributaries) that flow from this glaciated area.