bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improvement in Fusion and Stereopsis Following Surgery for Intermittent Exotropia
Authors: Feng Xueliang , Zhang Xinxin , Jia Yading
Published: February 2015

Purpose:

To evaluate fusion stereopsis in patients with intermittent exotropia before and after strabismus surgery.

Methods:

Fifty-three patients (mean age: 11.8 years, range: 5 to 25 years) with intermittent exotropia were enrolled. Fusion was measured with the Worth 4-dot test. Near stereopsis was examined with Titmus and stereoscopic test charts (created in China by Shao-Ming Yan). Distance stereopsis was tested with random-dot stereograms produced by Tianjin Eye Hospital. All patients completed the tests preoperatively and 2 and 6 weeks postoperatively.

Results:

There were no statistically significant differences in stereoscopic test charts among groups preoperatively (
P
> .05) and postoperatively (
P
> .05) or on Titmus tests preoperatively (
P
> .05) and postoperatively (
P
> .05). Among 53 patients, the percentage of distance stereoscopic improvement was 49% after 2 weeks and 77% after 6 weeks compared to 13% preoperatively. Six weeks postoperatively, random-dot stereograms were significantly different in those younger than 7 years and older than 13 years (
P
< .05), as well as those 7 to 13 years and older than 13 years (
P
< .05). Fifty (94%) demonstrated peripheral fusion and only 21 (40%) demonstrated central fusion preoperatively. Six weeks postoperatively, all patients exhibited peripheral fusion and 52 (98%) demonstrated central fusion. Central fusion in patients with intermittent exotropia significantly increased after 6 weeks (chi-square = 42.29,
P
< .01).

Conclusions:

Patients with intermittent exotropia have good near stereoacuity preoperatively and postoperatively. Even if surgery is postponed until adolescence, distance stereopsis can still be recovered. Surgical intervention can restore central fusion and stereoacuity in patients with intermittent exotropia.

[
J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus.
2015;52(1):52–57.]
New Surgical Intervention for the Weakening of the Inferior Oblique Muscle: Equatorial Scleral Anchor
Authors: Tomarchio Salvatore , Sabetti Lelio , Tomarchio Mario , Berarducci Antonio
Published: February 2015

Purpose:

To evaluate the efficacy of a new surgical technique in reducing inferior oblique muscle overaction.

Methods:

Anterior transposition and myectomy of the inferior oblique muscle represent the gold-standard treatment in dissociated vertical deviation, including cases in which a simultaneous inferior oblique muscle overaction is also present. A new surgical procedure that consists of suturing the muscle to the sclera at the Gobin point with tendon sparing using a micro-incision to minimize the related tissue trauma and induce a faster recovery was developed.

Results:

Two of 8 patients with essential infant esotropia had a complete resolution of the elevation in adduction with no residual vertical imbalance. All patients experienced an improvement in lateral incomitance.

Conclusions:

The new “equatorial scleral anchor” surgical procedure gives a similarly good outcome when compared with the classic inferior oblique anterior transposition technique, with the advantages being simple, safe, reversible, and modular in terms of suturing.

[
J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus.
2015;52(1):58–60.]
Multimodal Imaging of Macular Serpiginous Choroidopathy From Acute Presentation to Quiescence
Authors: Carreño Ester , Fernandez-Sanz Guillermo , Sim Dawn A. , Keane Pearse A. , Westcott Mark C. , Tufail Adnan , Pavesio Carlos E.
Published: February 2015

The authors report imaging findings in a case of macular serpiginous choroidopathy (MSC). Near-infrared reflectance (NIR), fundus autofluorescence (FAF), and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) were performed on a 25-year-old man presenting with decreased visual acuity and a blind spot in his left eye. Fundus examination revealed a yellow subretinal infiltrate inferior to the macula with active edges. On SD-OCT, areas of disease activity presented as a diffuse hyperreflective signal in the outer nuclear layer (ONL). Inactive lesions presented as localized thinning of the ONL. NIR allowed clear visualization of a hyperreflective junctional line between the active and inactive areas that subsequently became disrupted. FAF revealed a diffuse hypoautofluorescent halo surrounding an area of hyperautofluorescence in the acute phase and later better-defined lesions and hypoautofluorescent lesion edges.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina.
2015;46:226–270.]
Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography Measurements of Choroidal Thickness and Outer Retinal Disruption in Macular Telangiectasia Type 2
Authors: Nunes Renata Portella , Goldhardt Raquel , de Amorim Garcia Filho Carlos Alexandre , Thorell Mariana R. , Abbey Ashkan M. , Kuriyan Ajay E. , Modi Yasha S. , Shah Milan , Yehoshua Zohar , Gregori Giovanni , Feuer William , Rosenfeld Philip J.
Published: February 2015

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate subfoveal choroidal thickness (CT) and the extent of outer retinal disruption in patients with macular telangiectasia type 2 (MacTel2) compared with healthy eyes.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

In this prospective, observational, cohort study, 62 patients (62 eyes) with Mac-Tel2 and 130 healthy controls (130 eyes) underwent a complete ophthalmological examination, spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) imaging, and axial length measurements. Patients in the study group also underwent color fundus photography, fundus autofluorescence, and fluorescein angiography. En face SD-OCT imaging was used to assess abnormalities involving the photoreceptor inner segment/outer segment/ellipsoid zone (IS/OS/EZ).

RESULTS:

After adjusting for age and axial length, the authors found that eyes with MacTel2 had a mean CT measurement that was greater than control eyes (
P
= .007). There was a negative correlation between the visual acuity and the area of IS/OS/EZ damage (
P
= .009), but no statistically significant correlation was seen between CT and the area of IS/OS/EZ damage.

CONCLUSION:

Eyes with MacTel2 were found to have thicker CT measurements than control eyes. While the extent of IS/OS/EZ disruption correlated with the loss of visual acuity, this damage did not correlate with CT measurements.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina.
2015;46:162–170.]
Quantitative OCT Subanalysis of Eyes With Choroidal Neovascularization Switched From Multiple Injections of Bevacizumab or Ranibizumab to Intravitreal Aflibercept
Authors: Hariri Amirhossein , Diniz Bruno , Fou Lyndsey V. , Lam Linda A. , Nittala Muneeswar Gupta , Sadda SriniVas R.
Published: February 2015

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To assess the early therapeutic response after switching from multiple injections of bevacizumab or ranibizumab to aflibercept in eyes with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

SD-OCT scans of patients with neovascular AMD that was suboptimally responsive to multiple injections of bevacizumab or ranibizumab who were switched to aflibercept were analyzed. After segmenting these scans, the relevant volumes were computed and compared at the various time points by Student’s
t
test.

RESULTS:

After switching to aflibercept, converse to the outcome of the last injection of bevacizumab or ranibizumab, statistically significant decreases of 0.32 mm
3
in neurosensory retinal volume, 0.08 mm
3
in subretinal fluid, and 0.56 mm
3
in pigment epithelial detachment were observed
(P
= .01, .04, and .001, respectively). The mean ETDRS visual acuity increased from 62 to 65 letters after switching
(P
= .04). These favorable outcomes were sustained after three monthly injections of the new drug.

CONCLUSION:

Switching to aflibercept therapy in eyes with persistent fluid after multiple intravitreal injections of bevacizumab or ranibizumab was associated with an early reduction in all fluid compartments and improvement in visual acuity.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina.
2015;46:195–200.]
Risk Factors for Respiratory Depression in Patients Undergoing Retrobulbar Block for Vitreoretinal Surgery
Authors: Silva Ruwan A. , Leng Jody C. , He Lisa , Brock-Utne John G. , Drover David R. , Leng Theodore
Published: February 2015

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To determine the risk factors for respiratory depression during retrobulbar block administration before vitreoretinal surgery.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Prospective, observational case series of 113 patients undergoing monitored anesthesia care and retrobulbar block before vitreoretinal surgery at a tertiary medical center.

RESULTS:

Chin lift, jaw thrust, and bag mask ventilation were performed in eight (7.1%), nine (8%), and six (5.3%) patients, respectively. No patients required intubation. Age, sex, body mass index, history of obstructive sleep apnea, American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status level, and baseline oxygen saturation were not predictive of airway intervention. Of the four anesthetic agents utilized (midazolam, fentanyl, alfentanil, and propofol), only propofol and fentanyl were associated with an increased risk for clinically significant apnea. Use of three medications for sedation was associated with a 5.4-fold increase in the relative risk of requiring a respiratory rescue intervention.

CONCLUSION:

During preoperative sedation for retrobulbar block administration, the use of propofol, fentanyl, or a combination of three anesthetics is associated with a statistically significant increase in the risk for respiratory depression requiring resuscitation.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina.
2015;46:243–247.]
Optimización multiobjetivo del proceso de soldeo GMAW de la aleación AA 6063-T5 basado en la penetración y en la zona afectada térmicamente
Authors: Miguel Valentín , Marín-Ortiz Fernando , Manjabacas María C. , Martínez-Conesa Eusebio J. , Martínez-Martínez Alberto , Coello Juana
Published: February 2015

La selección de los parámetros tecnológicos que regulan los procesos de soldadura por arco debe efectuarse de forma que se optimice el resultado de la operación. La penetración es uno de los factores decisivos, ya que es determinante en el modo de ejecutar el proceso así como en el comportamiento de la unión. Otro factor importante es la Zona Afectada Térmicamente (ZAT), cuando ésta presenta propiedades diferentes a las del material base. El modo en que afectan los parámetros tecnológicos en ambos, penetración y ZAT, es inverso a los objetivos que suelen plantearse. En este trabajo se presenta una metodología de optimización del proceso GMAW de la aleación AA 6063-T5 basado en el diseño de experimentos y la superficie de respuesta. Los resultados obtenidos permiten evaluar la conveniencia de fijar como objetivo valores de penetración tendentes a mantener ZAT en ratios asumibles. Se obtiene que la variable que más afecta a la optimización es la velocidad de soldadura.
CMMI Implementation and Results
Authors: Liberato Marco , Varajão João , Martins Paulo
Published: February 2015

Companies focus on software development in order to survive in a highly competitive world. They not only need to keep up to date with the changes that are occurring in their environment, but they also need to assure the effectiveness of their processes. One way to do that is pursuing high quality standards by continuously improving the development processes. In this chapter, the authors describe the project of CMMI (Capability Maturity Model Integration) implementation in a software company specialized in information technology services for banking. The project was initiated with the aim of optimizing the software development process. Throughout the chapter, various aspects of the project are covered, such as the actions taken to implement the CMMI maturity level 2, the tools used to support the implementation, and the obtained results. These are useful and could serve as a reference basis for companies that consider the implementation of a maturity model.
Distributed IS Development Projects
Authors: Bergkvist Linda
Published: February 2015

The management of teams in a distributed IS development project is challenging. It has even been suggested that a new breed of managers for the management of dispersed teams is needed, especially when relationships cross national boundaries. Challenges in distributed, global IS development are understood as related to three dimensions of distance: geographic, temporal, and cultural distance, which affect the manager's ability to control and coordinate distributed IS development projects. This chapter argues that combining a relationship perspective with a success perspective is fruitful for understanding distributed IS development projects. In this context there are several significant conditions that draw the attention to the challenges in the practice of distributed IS development projects. The chapter ends with the provision of a conceptual framework addressing relational-oriented conditions for the management of distributed IS development projects. Using the framework, managers can identify the relational-oriented conditions for realizing the benefits of distributed IS development projects.
The impact of observing characteristics on the ability to predict ozone under varying polluted photochemical regimes
Authors: Hamer P. D. , Bowman K. W. , Henze D. , Attié J.-L. , Marécal V.
Published: February 2015

Abstract. We conduct a variety of analyses to assess how the characteristics of observations of ozone and its precursors affect their ability to support air quality forecasting and research. To carry out this investigation we use a photochemical box model and its adjoint integrated with a Lagrangian 4-D-variational data assimilation system. Using this framework in conjunction with various sets of pseudo observations we perform a ozone precursor source inversion and estimate surface emissions. We then assess the resulting improvement in ozone air quality forecasting and prediction. We use an analytical model as our principle method of conducting uncertainty analyses, which is the primary focus of this work. Using this analytical tool we address some simple but key questions regarding how the characteristics of observations affect our framework's ability to constrain ozone precursor emissions and in turn to predict ozone. These questions include what the effect is of choosing which species to observe, of varying amounts of observation noise, of changing the observing frequency and the observation time during the diurnal cycle, and of how these different scenarios interact with different photochemical regimes. These questions are designed to examine how different types of observing platform, e.g., geostationary satellites or ground monitoring networks, could support future air quality research and forecasting. In our investigation we use three observed species scenarios: CO and NO2; ozone, CO, and NO2; and HCHO, CO and NO2. The photochemical model was setup to simulate a range of summertime polluted environments spanning NOx (NO and NO2) limited to volatile organic compound (VOC) limited conditions. We find that as the photochemical regime changes the relative importance of trace gas observations to constrain emission estimates and subsequent ozone forecasts varies. For example, adding ozone observations to an NO2 and CO observing system is found to decrease ozone prediction error under NOx and VOC limited regimes, and complementing the NO2 and CO system with HCHO observations would improve ozone prediction in the transitional regime and under VOC limited conditions. We found that scenarios observing ozone and HCHO with relative observing noise of lower than 33% were able to achieve ozone prediction errors of lower than 5 ppbv (parts per billion by volume). Further, only observing intervals of 3 h or shorter were able to consistently achieve ozone prediction errors of 5 ppbv or lower across all photochemical regimes. Making observations closer to the prediction period and either in the morning or afternoon rush hour periods made greater improvements for ozone prediction. Finally, we made two complimentary analyses that establish the robustness of our conclusions to the assumed diurnal emission cycle and to the choice of which VOC species emission to estimate using our framework.
Quantifying error of lidar and sodar Doppler beam swinging measurements of wind turbine wakes using computational fluid dynamics
Authors: Lundquist J. K. , Churchfield M. J. , Lee S. , Clifton A.
Published: February 2015

Abstract. Wind-profiling lidars are now regularly used in boundary-layer meteorology and in applications such as wind energy and air quality. Lidar wind profilers exploit the Doppler shift of laser light backscattered from particulates carried by the wind to measure a line-of-sight (LOS) velocity. The Doppler beam swinging (DBS) technique, used by many commercial systems, considers measurements of this LOS velocity in multiple radial directions in order to estimate horizontal and vertical winds. The method relies on the assumption of homogeneous flow across the region sampled by the beams. Using such a system in inhomogeneous flow, such as wind turbine wakes or complex terrain, will result in errors. To quantify the errors expected from such violation of the assumption of horizontal homogeneity, we simulate inhomogeneous flow in the atmospheric boundary layer, notably stably stratified flow past a wind turbine, with a mean wind speed of 6.5 m s−1 at the turbine hub-height of 80 m. This slightly stable case results in 15° of wind direction change across the turbine rotor disk. The resulting flow field is sampled in the same fashion that a lidar samples the atmosphere with the DBS approach, including the lidar range weighting function, enabling quantification of the error in the DBS observations. The observations from the instruments located upwind have small errors, which are ameliorated with time averaging. However, the downwind observations, particularly within the first two rotor diameters downwind from the wind turbine, suffer from errors due to the heterogeneity of the wind turbine wake. Errors in the stream-wise component of the flow approach 30% of the hub-height inflow wind speed close to the rotor disk. Errors in the cross-stream and vertical velocity components are also significant: cross-stream component errors are on the order of 15% of the hub-height inflow wind speed (1.0 m s−1) and errors in the vertical velocity measurement exceed the actual vertical velocity. By three rotor diameters downwind, DBS-based assessments of wake wind speed deficits based on the stream-wise velocity can be relied on even within the near wake within 1.0 m s−1 (or 15% of the hub-height inflow wind speed), and the cross-stream velocity error is reduced to 8% while vertical velocity estimates are compromised. Measurements of inhomogeneous flow such as wind turbine wakes are susceptible to these errors, and interpretations of field observations should account for this uncertainty.
Diurnal aerosol variations do affect daily averaged radiative forcing under heavy aerosol loading observed in Hefei, China
Authors: Wang Z. , Liu D. , Wang Y. , Wang Z. , Shi G.
Published: February 2015

Abstract. Strong diurnal variation of aerosol has been observed in many heavy polluted regions in China. This variation could alter the distribution of the direct aerosol radiative forcing (DARF) during the whole daytime that could increase the uncertainty of the normally used averaged values. To quantify the effect of using the daily averaged DARF, 196 days of high temporal resolution ground-based data collected in SKYNET Hefei site during the period from 2007 to 2013 is used to perform an assessment. We demonstrate that strong diurnal changes of heavy aerosol loading have an impact on the 24 h averaged DARF when daily averaged optical properties are used to retrieve this quantity. Though there is a high temporal sampling of aerosol properties to be used for calculation of daily averaged ones, statistical errors (up to 5.3 Wm−2 absolutely and 14.6% relatively) in the computed DARF still occur. These errors increase with increasing daily aerosol optical depth (AOD) is also found which indicated the high temporal resolution DARF dataset should be used in the model instead of the normal daily-averaged one, especially under heavy aerosol loading condition.
The influence of terracettes on the surface hydrology of steep-sloping and subalpine environments: some preliminary findings
Authors: Greenwood P. , Kuonen S. , Fister W. , Kuhn N. J.
Published: February 2015

Abstract. Alpine and mountain slopes represent important pathways that link high-altitude grazing areas to meadows and rangelands at lower elevations. Given the often acute gradients associated with such environments, they potentially represent highly efficient runoff conveyance routes that facilitate the downslope movement of runoff and associated material during erosion events. Many such slopes host series of small steps, or "terracettes". The juxtaposition of terracettes against the natural downslope flow path of non-complex slopes leads us to hypothesise that they may influence typical hillslope processes by intercepting or capturing surface runoff. Here we report preliminary results and some tentative conclusions from ongoing work to explore this possibility. Google Earth was used to initially identify a ca. 400 m2 well-developed terracette system situated on a west-facing slope with gradients ranging from 25 to 40° (46 to 84 %). A digital elevation model (DEM) of the terracettes was constructed using spatial data taken from a relevant section of topographic map. The DEM was then queried using a flow-accumulation algorithm and the results displayed in a geographic information system. The output data provided "proof of concept" that terracettes can capture surface runoff. The generation of empirical data from a series of rainfall/runoff simulations performed on the same section of terracettes supports this finding. Results from both work components indicate that sections of a terracette system may intercept runoff and could act as preferential flow pathways. By contrast, some sections appeared to act as depositional sites. We cautiously predict that these areas could act as retention zones for the temporary storage of runoff-associated substances. Greater understanding of the exact influence of terracettes on surface hydrology in steep-sloping and subalpine environments could benefit the future management of grazing and rangelands in such areas.
Data assimilation in integrated hydrological modeling using ensemble Kalman filtering: evaluating the effect of ensemble size and localization on filter performance
Authors: Rasmussen J. , Madsen H. , Jensen K. H. , Refsgaard J. C.
Published: February 2015

Abstract. Groundwater head and stream discharge is assimilated using the Ensemble Transform Kalman Filter in an integrated hydrological model with the aim of studying the relationship between the filter performance and the ensemble size. In an attempt to reduce the required number of ensemble members, an adaptive localization method is used. The performance of the adaptive localization method is compared to the more common local analysis localization. The relationship between filter performance in terms of hydraulic head and discharge error and the number of ensemble members is investigated for varying numbers and spatial distributions of groundwater head observations and with or without discharge assimilation and parameter estimation. The study shows that (1) more ensemble members are needed when fewer groundwater head observations are assimilated, and (2) assimilating discharge observations and estimating parameters requires a much larger ensemble size than just assimilating groundwater head observations. However, the required ensemble size can be greatly reduced with the use of adaptive localization, which by far outperforms local analysis localization.
Landslide early warning based on failure forecast models: the example of Mt. de La Saxe rockslide, northern Italy
Authors: Manconi A. , Giordan D.
Published: February 2015

Abstract. We investigate the use of landslide failure forecast models by exploiting near-real-time monitoring data. Starting from the inverse velocity theory, we analyze landslide surface displacements on different temporal windows, and apply straightforward statistical methods to obtain confidence intervals on the estimated time of failure. Here we describe the main concepts of our method, and show an example of application to a real emergency scenario, the La Saxe rockslide, Aosta Valley region, northern Italy. Based on the herein presented case study, we identify operational thresholds based on the reliability of the forecast models, in order to support the management of early warning systems in the most critical phases of the landslide emergency.
Endometriosis: 10 Keys Points for MRI
Authors: Manganaro Lucia , Anastasi Emanuela , Vinci Valeria , Saldari Matteo , Bernardo Silvia , Sollazzo Paolo , Ballesio Laura , Fuggetta Eliana , Giancotti Antonella , Porpora Maria Grazia
Published: February 2015

Endometriosis is a chronic disease and a clinical problem in women of fertile age, with a high impact on quality of life, work productivity and health care management.

Two imaging modalities are employed in the diagnosis and evaluation of extent of disease: ultrasound examination with endovaginal approach and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI, thanks to its high contrast and resolution characteristics, offers a high level of accuracy in the study of endometriosis and adenomyosis.

We illustrate here 10 key MRI points for the detection and diagnosis of endometriosis.
Neonatal Menstruation Explains Epidemiological Links between Fetomaternal Conditions and Adolescent Endometriosis
Authors: Brosens Ivo , Gargett Caroline , Gordts Stephan , Brosens Jan , Benagiano Giuseppe
Published: February 2015

Background

Different fetomaternal conditions may influence the risk of endometriosis during adolescence and in adult life; here we focus on the hormonal maturation of the fetal endometrium in the final stages of pregnancy and on the theory that neonatal menstruation should be considered, similar to cyclic menstruation in the adult, as a risk factor for adolescent endometriosis.

Methods

The literature on neonatal menstruation and associated factors was systematically searched, and 19 relevant articles, published in different languages between 1950 and 1984, were retrieved. After closer scrutiny, 11 publications were selected as relevant.

Results

At birth, the neonatal endometrium displays different degrees of progesterone resistance, varying from a complete absence of progesterone responses, to secretory activity, decidualization and menstrual-like shedding. A temporal relationship exists between endometrial maturation and the incidence of neonatal menstruation, supporting the hypothesis that vaginal bleeding at birth is triggered by progesterone withdrawal. Neonatal menstruation occurs rarely in preterm babies, increases in those born at term and is a relatively frequent event in postmature infants. Analysis of archival clinical studies indicates that being born postterm or to a preeclamptic mother increases the risk of neonatal menstruation. Low birthweight may also enhance the likelihood of neonatal menstruation, whereas prematurity could be protective, although the available data are inconclusive.

Conclusions

The available data suggest that fetomaternal risk factors associated with neonatal menstruation could also potentially be useful in identifying women at risk of endometriosis. However, archival clinical studies have important limitations, including lack of accurate dating of pregnancy, therefore necessitating prospective studies and systematic registration of neonatal menstruation.
A Preliminary Communication: Ongoing Study on HOXA10 Methylation Profile of Endometriosis Patients with Infertility
Authors: Muharam Raden , Harzif Achmad Kemal , Catherine  , Asmarinah  , Wiweko Budi
Published: February 2015

Background

Endometriosis and infertility have been shown to be related to one another. The mechanisms that explain this phenomenon are not fully understood. One of the possible mechanisms of infertility in endometriosis patients is failure of implantation of the embryo in the endometrium. This may be caused by high levels of methylation of HOXA10 gene in patients with endometriosis, resulting a decrease in the expression of genes that play a role in this endometrial receptivity.

Objective

To determine the methylation profile of HOXA10 gene on eutopic endometrium in endometriosis patients with infertility.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study conducted at Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital from July 2015 to July 2016. The subjects of research were cystic ovarian endometriosis patients with infertility, confirmed histopathologically and non-endometriosis-fertile patients. The methylation status of HOXA 10 gene in both groups was examined and compared. Statistical analysis is Mann-Whitney U-test, a two-tailed p value less than 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

There were six endometriosis patients and six controls. Six samples on endometriosis group showed the following percentage rate of methylation: 63.29%, 55.28%, 33.92%, 43.27%, 77.20% and 65.94%. Meanwhile, four samples in the control group did not undergo methylation at all and two other samples methylated at low levels equal to 15.24% and 16.48%. Methylation status between these two groups is statistically different with p 0.03.

Conclusions

In patients with endometriosis-associated infertility, HOXA10 gene in eutopic endometrium has a higher methylation level.
Endometriosis and Ovarian Cancer: From Molecular Evidences to Clinical Implications
Authors: da Silva-Filho Agnaldo Lopes , Ferreira Márcia Cristina França , Lamaita Rívia Mara , Rocha Ana Luiza Lunardi , Cândido Eduardo Batista , Carneiro Márcia Mendonça
Published: February 2015

Approximately 1.3% of women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer at some point during their lifetime. The association between endometriosis and cancer has been described in numerous published studies. However, the lifetime risk for ovarian cancer is low in the general population and it does not change in women with endometriosis. Endometrioid and clear-cell ovarian tumors appear to be associated with pelvic endometriosis. Apparently, women with endometriosis-associated ovarian cancer differ from non-endometriosis-associated ovarian cancer patients in their clinical characteristics. This review summarizes the epidemiologic and molecular evidence and also the clinical implications of the association between endometriosis and ovarian cancer.
Prolonged Response to Aflibercept in Ovarian Cancer Relapse: A Case Report
Authors: Redondo Andrés , Castelo Beatriz , Pinto Alvaro , Zamora Pilar , Espinosa Enrique
Published: February 2015

VEGF-targeted therapies have shown activity in ovarian cancer, and one of them, bevacizumab, has been recently approved in this disease. Aflibercept is an antiangiogenic soluble fusion protein that inhibits VEGF-mediated signaling. In ovarian cancer, phase II trials with aflibercept have shown a significant benefit in the control of malignant ascites but with a lower response rate than expected.

We report the case of a patient with relapsed ovarian cancer treated with aflibercept in fourth line, who experienced a prolonged response during more than two years with good tolerance. The duration of response to aflibercept was longer than that of the three previous lines of therapy (including the initial carboplatin-paclitaxel regimen) and ascites did not reappear. Further clinical research with this drug in ovarian cancer to identify patients who benefit most is warranted.
The Added Value of Bevacizumab Concomitantly Administered with Carboplatin versus Carboplatin Alone in Patients with Recurrent Glioblastomas
Authors: Kaloshi Gentian , Diamandi Pavllo , Cakani Bujar , Brace Gramoz , Rroji Arben , Petrela Mentor
Published: February 2015

Aims and Background

Carboplatin (CBDCA) and bevacizumab (BEV) are active in glioblastoma (GBM) with different profiles of toxicity. To date, no study has compared the value of the addition of BEV to historical or traditional cytotoxic chemotherapy. We sought to determine the relative value of BEV in combination with CBDCA versus CBDCA alone in patients with recurrent GBM.

Methods and Study design

Eligible patients with progressive GBM following surgery, radiotherapy and temozolomide received CBDCA either alone (group 1, n = 25) or in combination with BEV (group 2, n = 23) at 5 mg/kg once every 3 weeks between June 2010 and December 2013. Baseline characteristics and outcomes after treatment were recorded. The primary end points of this retrospective analysis were progression-free survival (PFS) and objective response rate. Secondary end points included safety and overall survival (OS).

Results

Forty-eight patients were enrolled. The median number of cycles was 4 in group 1 and 6 in group 2. No toxicities or intracerebral bleeding were observed. The objective response rate was higher in group 2 than group 1, 66% vs 24% (p = 0.003). The estimated median PFS and OS were 3.1 vs 6.7 months (p<0.0001) and 6.1 vs 8.6 months (p = 0.09) in group 1 vs group 2, respectively.

Conclusions

The combination of BEV and CBDCA is associated with improved response rates and survival compared with CBDCA alone. These results highlight the value of BEV in recurrent GBM. However, the clinical benefit of this interesting approach needs validation in a larger patient cohort.
Positive Consequences of Cancer: Exploring Relationships among Posttraumatic Growth, Adult Attachment, and Quality of Life
Authors: Tanyi Zsuzsanna , Szluha Kornélia , Nemes László , Kovács Sándor , Bugán Antal
Published: February 2015

Aims and Background

Cancer can be a life-threatening illness; however, it can also be a source of positive life changes, the posttraumatic growth (PTG) that comes from struggling with this serious illness. This cross-sectional study examines the sociodemographic and cancer-related predictors of PTG following a diagnosis of cancer. In addition, the relationships among adult attachment, health-related quality of life, and PTG are investigated. Measuring adult attachment is important because it can greatly influence the response to a highly distressing event, like facing cancer.

Methods and Study Design

Immediately before undergoing radiotherapy, 152 patients with breast or prostate cancer (mean = 59.1 years old, SD = 10.7) who had received a positive diagnosis within an average of 3.5 months prior to treatment were tested for measures of PTG, adult attachment, and health-related quality of life. Patients also completed a questionnaire regarding medical and sociodemographic characteristics. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses were conducted to reveal the significant predictors of PTG total score and PTG subscale scores.

Results

Younger age was a significant predictor of the PTG total score and New Possibilities subscale score. Subjective severity of cancer was positively associated with the PTG total score and scores on the Appreciation of Life and New Possibilities subscales. Regarding health-related quality of life, analyses indicated that greater social/family well-being significantly predicted greater PTG total score and higher scores on the New Possibilities, Spiritual Change, Appreciation of Life, and Relating to Others subscales. Finally, dismissive attachment style predicted fewer scores on the Personal Strength and Relating to Others subscales.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that in addition to quality of life and adult attachment, sociodemographic and cancer-related variables may significantly contribute to positive growth.
Amphicrine Carcinoma of the Ampullary Region
Authors: Ginori Alessandro , Bello Giuseppe Lo , Vassallo Loretta , Tripodi Sergio Antonio
Published: February 2015

Amphicrine carcinoma is a peculiar tumor in which the cells have both exocrine and neuroendocrine differentiation, with mucus and neuroendocrine granules within the cytoplasm. In the 2010 WHO classification of tumors of the digestive tract, they have been included in the intermediate-grade malignant category of mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinomas (MANECs). These tumors are extremely rare in the gastrointestinal tract. Four cases have been reported in the stomach, three in the pancreas, and one in the liver. To the best of our knowledge, this report describes the first case of amphicrine carcinoma in the ampullary region.
Small-Bowel Neuroendocrine Tumor and Retroperitoneal Fibrosis: Efficacy of Octreotide and Tamoxifen
Authors: Biasco Elisa , Antonuzzo Andrea , Galli Luca , Baldi Giacomo Giulio , Derosa Lisa , Marconcini Riccardo , Farnesi Azzurra , Ricci Sergio , Falcone Alfredo
Published: February 2015

Aims and Background

Neuroendocrine tumors are uncommon clinical entities and only a few cases of the co-occurrence of neuroendocrine tumors and retroperitoneal fibrosis have been described in the literature.

Methods and Study Design:

We report the promising results achieved in a case of neuroendocrine tumor complicated by retroperitoneal fibrosis causing right ureteral obstruction treated with long-acting release octreotide and tamoxifen.

Results and Conclusions

The treatment resulted in a complete response without toxicity.
Bilateral Breast Radiation Delivered with Static Angle Tomotherapy (TomoDirect): Clinical Feasibility and Dosimetric Results of a Single Patient
Authors: Franco Pierfrancesco , Migliaccio Fernanda , Torielli Paolo , Sciacero Piera , Girelli Giuseppe , Cante Domenico , Arrichiello Cecilia , Borca Valeria Casanova , Cornetto Andrea Peruzzo , Numico Gianmauro , La Porta Maria Rosa , Tofani Santi , Ricardi Umberto
Published: February 2015

We herein report on a case of synchronous bilateral breast cancer patient undergoing adjuvant intensity-modulated whole breast with static angle tomotherapy (TomoDirect). The patient was treated with a hypofractionated schedule employing a simultaneous integrated boost approach. Radiotherapy schedule was 45 Gy/20 fractions (2.25 Gy daily) to the bilateral whole breast and 50 Gy/20 fractions (2.5 Gy daily) to the 2 lumpectomy cavities. Treatment was delivered over 4 weeks. Dosimetric results were robust with consistent target coverage and adequate normal tissue avoidance. Treatment was generally well-tolerated and acute toxicity profile was mild. The present report highlights the promising clinical feasibility of TomoDirect for bilateral breast irradiation.
Risk of death among those awaiting treatment for HIV infection in Zimbabwe: adolescents are at particular risk
Authors: Shroufi Amir , Ndebele Wedu , Nyathi Mary , Gunguwo Hilary , Dixon Mark , Saint‐Sauveur Jean F , Taziwa Fabian , Viñoles Mari C , Ferrand Rashida A
Published: February 2015

Introduction

Mortality among HIV‐positive adults awaiting antiretroviral therapy (ART) has previously been found to be high. Here, we compare adolescent pre‐ART mortality to that of adults in a public sector HIV care programme in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, we compared adolescent pre‐ART outcomes with those of adults enrolled for HIV care in the same clinic. Adolescents were defined as those aged 10–19 at the time of registration. Comparisons of means and proportions were carried out using two‐tailed sample t‐tests and chi‐square tests respectively, for normally distributed data, and the Mann–Whitney U‐tests for non‐normally distributed data. Loss to follow‐up (LTFU) was defined as missing a scheduled appointment by three or more months.

Results

Between 2004 and 2010, 1382 of 1628 adolescents and 7557 of 11,106 adults who registered for HIV care met the eligibility criteria for ART. Adolescents registered at a more advanced disease stage than did adults (83% vs. 73% WHO stage III/IV, respectively, p<0.001), and the median time to ART initiation was longer for adolescents than for adults [21 (10–55) days vs. 15 (7–42) days, p<0.001]. Among the 138 adolescents and 942 adults who never commenced ART, 39 (28%) of adolescents and 135 (14%) of adults died, the remainder being LTFU. Mortality among treatment‐eligible adolescents awaiting ART was significantly higher than among adults (3% vs. 1.8%, respectively, p=0.004).

Conclusions

Adolescents present to ART services at a later clinical stage than adults and are at an increased risk of death prior to commencing ART. Improved and innovative HIV case‐finding approaches and emphasis on prompt ART initiation in adolescents are urgently needed. Following registration, defaulter tracing should be used, whether or not ART has been commenced.
Red and far red Sun‐induced chlorophyll fluorescence as a measure of plant photosynthesis
Authors: Rossini M. , Nedbal L. , Guanter L. , Ač A. , Alonso L. , Burkart A. , Cogliati S. , Colombo R. , Damm A. , Drusch M. , Hanus J. , Janoutova R. , Julitta T. , Kokkalis P. , Moreno J. , Novotny J. , Panigada C. , Pinto F. , Schickling A. , Schüttemeyer D. , Zemek F. , Rascher U.
Published: February 2015

Remote estimation of Sun‐induced chlorophyll fluorescence emitted by terrestrial vegetation can provide an unparalleled opportunity to track spatiotemporal variations of photosynthetic efficiency. Here we provide the first direct experimental evidence that the two peaks of the chlorophyll fluorescence spectrum can be accurately mapped from high‐resolution radiance spectra and that the signal is linked to variations in actual photosynthetic efficiency. Red and far red fluorescence measured using a novel airborne imaging spectrometer over a grass carpet treated with an herbicide known to inhibit photosynthesis was significantly higher than the corresponding signal from an equivalent untreated grass carpet. The reflectance signal of the two grass carpets was indistinguishable, confirming that the fast dynamic changes in fluorescence emission were related to variations in the functional status of actual photosynthesis induced by herbicide application. Our results from a controlled experiment at the local scale illustrate the potential for the global mapping of terrestrial photosynthesis through space‐borne measurements of chlorophyll fluorescence.
Spectral characterization of fine‐scale wind waves using shipboard optical polarimetry
Authors: Laxague Nathan J. M. , Haus Brian K. , Bogucki Darek , Özgökmen Tamay
Published: February 2015

Fine‐scale sea surface waves are of profound importance to a number of air‐sea interaction processes. Due to a number of reasons, there exists a great degree of difficulty in obtaining quality in situ observations of these waves. This paper presents the application of a shipboard wave‐sensing method toward the following quantifications: regime‐specific contribution to sea surface slope and sensitivity to wind speed increases. Measurements were made via polarimetric camera, resolving waves with wavelengths ranging from 0.21 to 0.003 m (30 rad/m < k < 1750 rad/m). The gravity‐capillary regime was found to contribute the bulk of mean square slope during stationary wind conditions and supply the majority of mean square slope growth during periods of increasing wind speed. Capillary waves were found to contribute approximately 5% of the overall surface roughness. Furthermore, capillary waves were found to be the least sensitive to increases in wind speed. This implies that such waves saturate at low wind speeds (
3 m/s) and slow wind speed increases (
0.02
). The slight roughness contribution from capillary waves and significant contribution from gravity‐capillary waves offers insight for scientists in the remote sensing field and important information for the formation of new wave models.
Sulfur dioxide vertical column DOAS retrievals from the Ozone Monitoring Instrument: Global observations and comparison to ground‐based and satellite data
Authors: Theys N. , De Smedt I. , van Gent J. , Danckaert T. , Wang T. , Hendrick F. , Stavrakou T. , Bauduin S. , Clarisse L. , Li C. , Krotkov N. , Yu H. , Brenot H. , Van Roozendael M.
Published: February 2015

We present a new data set of sulfur dioxide (SO2) vertical columns from observations of the Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI)/AURA instrument between 2004 and 2013. The retrieval algorithm used is an advanced Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (DOAS) scheme combined with radiative transfer calculation. It is developed in preparation for the operational processing of SO2 data product for the upcoming TROPOspheric Monitoring Instrument/Sentinel 5 Precursor mission. We evaluate the SO2 column results with those inferred from other satellite retrievals such as Infrared Atmospheric Sounding Interferometer and OMI (Linear Fit and Principal Component Analysis algorithms). A general good agreement between the different data sets is found for both volcanic and anthropogenic SO2 emission scenarios. We show that our algorithm produces SO2 columns with low noise and is able to provide accurate estimates of SO2. This conclusion is supported by important validation results over the heavily polluted site of Xianghe (China). Nearly 4 years of OMI and ground‐based multiaxis DOAS SO2 columns are compared, and an excellent match is found. We also highlight the improved performance of the algorithm in capturing weak SO2 sources by detecting shipping SO2 emissions in long‐term averaged data, an unreported measurement from space.
Thermal and near‐infrared analyses of central peaks of Martian impact craters: Evidence for a heterogeneous Martian crust
Authors: Pan C. , Rogers A. D. , Michalski J. R.
Published: February 2015

Central peaks of impact craters contain materials exhumed from depth, and therefore, investigation of these materials provides clues to subsurface geology and mineralogy. A global spectral survey of central peaks of Martian impact craters between 10 and 200 km diameter was completed using Mars Odyssey Thermal Emission Imaging System (THEMIS) data. Twenty‐six central peaks with distinctive spectral signatures from surrounding plains were identified and characterized with thermal infrared and visible/near‐infrared data. The distribution of spectrally distinct central peaks (SDCPs) shows some degree of regional clustering, with most craters found in western Noachis Terra, Tyrrhena Terra, within the northern rim of Hellas Basin, and fewer in the northern lowlands. With the exception of four craters in western Noachis Terra, SDCPs contain only one spectrally distinct unit at THEMIS resolution (100 m/pixel). The maximum number of spectrally distinct units observed was three, in Jones and Ostrov craters. The western Noachis Terra SDCPs may expose crustal stratigraphies of multiple igneous compositions or impact materials from Argyre. In the highlands, most SDCP units are consistent with enrichments in olivine or pyroxene relative to surrounding plains, suggesting olivine and pyroxene basaltic lithologies; few are olivine and pyroxene poor. No spatial trend in spectrally derived compositions of SDCPs was observed. Three SDCPs contain THEMIS signatures consistent with high abundances of phyllosilicates, which may contain the most phyllosilicate‐rich lithologies found in central peak‐associated materials globally.
Pacific sea surface temperature and the winter of 2014
Authors: Hartmann Dennis L.
Published: February 2015

It is shown from historical data and from modeling experiments that a proximate cause of the cold winter in North America in 2013–2014 was the pattern of sea surface temperature (SST) in the Pacific Ocean. Each of the three dominant modes of SST variability in the Pacific is connected to the tropics and has a strong expression in extratropical SST and weather patterns. Beginning in the middle of 2013, the third mode of SST variability was two standard deviations positive and has remained so through January 2015. This pattern is associated with high pressure in the northeast Pacific and low pressure and low surface temperatures over central North America. A large ensemble of model experiments with observed SSTs confirms that SST anomalies contributed to the anomalous winter of 2014.