bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A cemented acetabular component with a reinforcement cross provides excellent medium-term fixation in total hip arthroplasty after pelvic irradiation
Authors: Felden A. , Vaz G. , Kreps S. , Anract P. , Hamadouche M. , Biau D. J.
Published: January 2015

Conventional cemented acetabular components are reported to have a high rate of failure when implanted into previously irradiated bone. We recommend the use of a cemented reconstruction with the addition of an acetabular reinforcement cross to improve fixation.

We reviewed a cohort of 45 patients (49 hips) who had undergone irradiation of the pelvis and a cemented total hip arthroplasty (THA) with an acetabular reinforcement cross. All hips had received a minimum dose of 30 Gray (Gy) to treat a primary nearby tumour or metastasis. The median dose of radiation was 50 Gy (Q1 to Q3: 45 to 60; mean: 49.57, 32 to 72).

The mean follow-up after THA was 51 months (17 to 137). The cumulative probability of revision of the acetabular component for a mechanical reason was 0% (0 to 0%) at 24 months, 2.9% (0.2 to 13.3%) at 60 months and 2.9% (0.2% to 13.3%) at 120 months, respectively. One hip was revised for mechanical failure and three for infection.

Cemented acetabular components with a reinforcement cross provide good medium-term fixation after pelvic irradiation. These patients are at a higher risk of developing infection of their THA.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:177–84.
Can the pre-operative Western Ontario and McMaster score predict patient satisfaction following total hip arthroplasty?
Authors: Rogers B. A. , Alolabi B. , Carrothers A. D. , Kreder H. J. , Jenkinson R. J.
Published: January 2015

In this study we evaluated whether pre-operative Western Ontario and McMaster Universities (WOMAC) osteoarthritis scores can predict satisfaction following total hip arthroplasty (THA). Prospective data for a cohort of patients undergoing THA from two large academic centres were collected, and pre-operative and one-year post-operative WOMAC scores and a 25-point satisfaction questionnaire were obtained for 446 patients. Satisfaction scores were dichotomised into either improvement or deterioration. Scatter plots and Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient were used to describe the association between pre-operative WOMAC and one-year post-operative WOMAC scores and patient satisfaction. Satisfaction was compared using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis against pre-operative, post-operative and δ WOMAC scores.

We found no relationship between pre-operative WOMAC scores and one-year post-operative WOMAC or satisfaction scores, with Spearman’s rank correlation coefficients of 0.16 and –0.05, respectively. The ROC analysis showed areas under the curve (AUC) of 0.54 (pre-operative WOMAC), 0.67 (post-operative WOMAC) and 0.43 (δ WOMAC), respectively, for an improvement in satisfaction.

We conclude that the pre-operative WOMAC score does not predict the post-operative WOMAC score or patient satisfaction after THA, and that WOMAC scores can therefore not be used to prioritise patient care.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:150–3.
Management of melioidosis osteomyelitis and septic arthritis
Authors: Shetty R. P. , Mathew M. , Smith J. , Morse L. P. , Mehta J. A. , Currie B. J.
Published: January 2015

Little information is available about several important aspects of the treatment of melioidosis osteomyelitis and septic arthritis.

We undertook a retrospective review of 50 patients with these conditions in an attempt to determine the effect of location of the disease, type of surgical intervention and duration of antibiotic treatment on outcome, particularly complications and relapse.

We found that there was a 27.5% risk of osteomyelitis of the adjacent bone in patients with septic arthritis in the lower limb. Patients with septic arthritis and osteomyelitis of an adjacent bone were in hospital significantly longer (p = 0.001), needed more operations (p = 0.031) and had a significantly higher rate of complications and re-presentation (p = 0.048).

More than half the patients (61%), most particularly those with multifocal bone and joint involvement, and those with septic arthritis and osteomyelitis of an adjacent bone who were treated operatively, needed more visits to theatre.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:277–82.
Survivorship of the cementless Spotorno femoral component in patients under 50 years of age at a mean follow-up of 18.4 years
Authors: Biemond J. E. , Venkatesan S. , van Hellemondt G. G.
Published: January 2015

The long-term survival of the cementless Spotorno CLS femoral component in patients aged > 50 years at the time of arthroplasty was investigated. Survivorship analysis of a consecutive series of 85 patients (100 hips; under 50 years of age at a mean follow-up of 18.4 years (16.3 to 20.8)) was performed. The clinical and radiographic outcomes were satisfactory. The overall rate of survival of the femoral component was 93.5% (95% confidence interval (CI), 90.9 to 96.1) after 19 years. Survival with revision for aseptic loosening as the end point was 95.7% (95% CI 93.6 to 97.8%) at 19 years.

This study demonstrates an excellent long-term survival of the Spotorno CLS femoral component after 16 to 20 years in young patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:160–3.
Cause of death and factors associated with early in-hospital mortality after hip fracture
Authors: Chatterton B. D. , Moores T. S. , Ahmad S. , Cattell A. , Roberts P. J.
Published: January 2015

The aims of this study were to identify the early in-hospital mortality rate after hip fracture, identify factors associated with this mortality, and identify the cause of death in these patients. A retrospective cohort study was performed on 4426 patients admitted to our institution between the 1 January 2006 and 31 December 2013 with a hip fracture (1128 male (26%), mean age 82.0 years (60 to 105)).

Admissions increased annually, but despite this 30-day mortality decreased from 12.1% to 6.5%; 77% of these were in-hospital deaths. Male gender (odds ratio (OR) 2.0, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.3 to 3.0), increasing age (age ≥ 91; OR 4.1, 95% CI 1.4 to 12.2) and comorbidity (American Society of Anesthesiologists grades 3 to 5; OR 4.2, 95% CI 2.0 to 8.7) were independently and significantly associated with increased odds of in-hospital mortality. From 220 post-mortem reports, the most common causes of death were respiratory infections (35%), ischaemic heart disease (21%), and cardiac failure (13%). A sub-group of hip fracture patients at highest risk of early death can be identified with these risk factors, and the knowledge of the causes of death can be used to inform service improvements and the development of a more didactic care pathway, so that multidisciplinary intervention can be focused for this sub-group in order to improve their outcome.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:246–51.
Style Guide: An Interdisciplinary Communication Tool to Support the Process of
Generating Tailored Infographics From Electronic Health Data Using EnTICE3
Authors: Arcia Adriana , Velez Mark , Bakken Suzanne
Published: January 2015

Purpose: In this case study we describe key features of the structured
communication tool—a style guide—used to support interdisciplinary collaboration, and we
propose the use of such a tool for research teams engaged in similar projects. We employ
tailored infographics to present patient reported outcome data from a community health
survey back, in a comprehensible and actionable manner, to the individuals who provided
it. The style guide was developed to bridge the semantic gap between the domain and
programming experts engaged in this effort.Innovation: The style guide supports the
communication of complex design specifications in a highly structured format that is
nevertheless flexible enough to accommodate project growth. Unlike the typical corporate
style guide that has a more narrative format, our style guide is innovative in its use
of consistent fields across multiple, standalone entries.Credibility: The process of
populating the style guide prompted the designer toward greater design efficiency and
led to consistent and specific instructions that met the framework architect’s stated
information needs.Discussion and Conclusion: The guiding values in the creation of the
style guide were consistency, clarity, and flexibility. It serves as a durable reference
to the desired look and functionality of the final infographic product without dictating
an implementation strategy. The style guide format can be adapted to meet the
communication needs of other interdisciplinary teams facing a semantic gap.
Urban, ethnic, provincial: Anticipations of audience preferences in Danish film funding and production
Authors: Givskov Cecilie
Published: January 2015

This article explores how professional and public stakeholders in the development of film projects negotiate economic and symbolic risk related to representation of minorities and geographical peripheries in Denmark, and situates these negotiations within the Danish public sphere and the contemporary subsidy and production system. The main argument is, on the one hand, that the national cinema potentially works as an arena for social inclusion; on the other, that anxiety related to economic and symbolic risk, which promotes industry myths and postulates about target groups, puts constraints on expressions. The identified reluctance to risk-taking is not only relevant to the question of sociocultural representation behind and in front of the camera, but also to the question of the state’s ability to create a space for creative autonomy.
Ingmar Bergman’s screenwriting
Authors: Rossholm Anna Sofia
Published: January 2015

Via a combination of screenwriting theory and theories on literary manuscripts, this article approaches Ingmar Bergman’s screenwriting as process, from notebooks to script drafts and finished screenplays. It particularly emphasizes the playful dimensions in the early stages of the screenwriting process and the way the writing negotiates fiction and reality.
The transnational remake: Crossing borders with Contraband
Authors: Nordfjörd Björn
Published: January 2015

This short subject compares the Hollywood action film Contraband (2012) by Kormákur and the Icelandic ‘original’ Reykjavík Rotterdam (2008) by Jónasson, leading to a critical reassessment of remakes and the perceived differences between Hollywood and Icelandic cinema.
PCR Assay With Host Specific Internal Control for Staphylococcus Aureus From Bovine Milk Samples
Authors: Cantekin Zafer , Ergun Yasar , Solmaz Hasan , Özmen Gamze Özge , Demir Melek , Saidi Radhwane
Published: January 2015

Staphylococcus aureus is considered as one of the most important and common pathogens of bovine mastitis. Polymerase Chain Reaction is frequently proposed in the diagnosis of S. aureus directly from milk samples instead of classical culture. However, false-negative results may occur in the polymerase chain reaction analysis performed directly from clinical material. For the purpose of disclosing the false negative results, the use of internal amplification controls can be beneficial. Therefore, in this study a new polymerase chain reaction technique with host specific internal amplification control was developed by optimizing S. aureus-specific primers in combination with bovine specific primers. The effectiveness of the developed technique in this study was attempted in milk samples from bovine subclinical mastitis. This technique has the potential to detect S. aureus from bovine milk samples or dairy products.
Simultaneous integer values of pairs of quadratic forms
Authors: Heath-Brown D. R. , Pierce L. B.
Published: January 2015

We prove that a pair of integral quadratic forms in five or more
variables will simultaneously represent “almost all” pairs of integers
that satisfy the necessary local conditions, provided that the forms
satisfy a suitable nonsingularity condition. In particular such
forms simultaneously attain prime values if the obvious local
conditions hold. The proof uses the circle method, and
in particular pioneers a two-dimensional version of a Kloosterman
refinement.
Commuting-liftable subgroups of Galois groups II
Authors: Topaz Adam
Published: January 2015

Let n denote either a positive integer or

∞

{\infty}

, let

ℓ

{\ell}

be a fixed prime and let K be a field of characteristic different from

ℓ

{\ell}

.
In the presence of sufficiently many roots of unity in K, we show how to recover some of the inertia/decomposition structure of valuations inside the maximal

ℓ
n

{\ell^{n}}

-abelian Galois group of K using the maximal

ℓ
N

{\ell^{N}}

-abelian-by-central Galois group of K, whenever N is sufficiently large relative to n.
What makes a metaphor an embodied metaphor?
Authors: Casasanto Daniel , Gijssels Tom
Published: January 2015

What does it mean for metaphors to be “embodied”? Here we describe an influential theory of embodied cognition according to which thoughts are implemented in perceptuo-motor simulations, in the brain’s modality-specific systems. This theory is invoked in nearly every paper on “embodied metaphor,” across linguistics, philosophy, psychology, and cognitive neuroscience. There appears to be overwhelming support for the conclusion that representations of metaphorical “source domains” are embodied in perceptuo-motor simulations. Here we show, however, that when the data are evaluated appropriately there is very little evidence that metaphors are embodied in this sense. The kind of data that offer compelling support for the embodiment of concrete, literal ideas like “grasping the ball” are nearly absent for abstract, metaphorical ideas like “grasping the explanation.” There is now abundant evidence that metaphors structure our thoughts, feelings, and choices in a variety of conceptual domains. But evidence for metaphorical mental representation is not necessarily evidence for embodiment. If any metaphorical source domains are embodied in modality-specific simulations, they may be the exception rather than the rule.
Sensitivitätssteigerung bei der inversen
Materialparameterbestimmung für Piezokeramiken
Authors: Unverzagt Carsten , Rautenberg Jens , Henning Bernd
Published: January 2015

Für eine realitätsnahe
Finite-Elemente-Simulation von
Piezokeramiken ist es notwendig, dass deren
Materialparameter präzise bekannt sind. Zur
Bestimmung werden zunehmend numerische Verfahren auf Basis inverser Methoden
eingesetzt, die einen Einfluss aller Materialparameter
auf den als Messgröße genutzten Impedanzverlauf
voraussetzen. Dieser kann durch die Nutzung einer
segmentierten Elektrode in Kombination mit einem elektrischen Vornetzwerk
vergrößert werden, wodurch die Sensitivität
erhöht und die Bestimmung aller relevanter Materialparameter an einer
einzelnen Probe ermöglicht wird.
Modellbasierte Entwicklung eines Geometrienormals für pneumatische Abstandssensoren
Authors: Eifler Matthias , Schäfer Patrick , Seewig Jörg
Published: January 2015

Aufgrund ihrer Robustheit ist die pneumatische Messtechnik gut für die Inprozess-Messtechnik einsetzbar. Moderne Rechnersysteme liefern neue Ansätze, bisher noch unzureichend beschriebene Grundlagen zur Physik des Verfahrens zu betrachten. Ein Beispiel hierfür sind Kalibrierstrategien, zu denen diese Veröffentlichung Ergebnisse präsentiert. Dabei werden die Auslegung zwei neuer Geometrienormale auf Basis verschiedener Entwicklungsansätze der virtuellen pneumatischen Messung sowie zugehörige Messergebnisse vorgestellt. Die Beurteilung erfolgt durch den Vergleich der verschiedenen Abtastergebnisse.
Visceral obesity is associated with increased soluble CD163 concentration in men with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Sørensen Lars Peter , Parkner Tina , Søndergaard Esben , Bibby Bo Martin , Møller Holger Jon , Nielsen Søren
Published: January 2015

Monocyte/macrophage-specific soluble CD163 (sCD163) concentration is associated with insulin resistance and increases with deteriorating glycemic control independently of BMI. This led to the proposal of the hypothesis that obesity-associated white adipose tissue inflammation varies between individuals. The objective was to examine the effect of male overweight/obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) on associations between adiposity parameters and sCD163. A total of 23 overweight/obese non-diabetic men, 16 overweight/obese men with T2DM, and a control group of 20 normal-weight healthy men were included. Body composition and regional body fat distribution were determined by whole-body dual X-ray absorptiometry scan and abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan. Serum sCD163 concentrations were determined by ELISA. Associations between adiposity parameters and sCD163 were investigated using multiple linear regression analysis. In the normal-weight healthy men, there was no significant association between adiposity parameters and sCD163, whereas in the overweight/obese non-diabetic men, measures of general and regional adiposity were positively associated with sCD163. In the overweight/obese men with T2DM, only visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and the ratio of VAT to abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), a measure of relative body fat distribution between VAT and SAT depots, were positively associated with sCD163. In a multivariate analysis, including VAT, upper-body SAT, and lower-body fat, adjusted for BMI and age, VAT remained a significant predictor of sCD163 in the overweight/obese T2DM men, but not in the overweight/obese non-diabetic men. Our results indicate that VAT inflammation is exaggerated in men with T2DM, and that propensity to store excess body fat viscerally is particularly detrimental in men with T2DM.
Rapid control of severe neoplastic hypercortisolism with metyrapone and ketoconazole
Authors: Corcuff Jean-Benoît , Young Jacques , Masquefa-Giraud Pauline , Chanson Philippe , Baudin Eric , Tabarin Antoine
Published: January 2015

Context

Severe Cushing's syndrome elicited by ectopic ACTH syndrome (EAS) or adrenal carcinoma (ACC) can threaten life in the short term. The effectiveness of oral administration of the inhibitors of steroidogenesis ketoconazole and metyrapone in this situation is poorly described.

Objective

To report the short-term effectiveness and tolerability of metyrapone and ketoconazole elicited either by EAS or by ACC in patients exhibiting severe hypercortisolism.

Design

Retrospective analysis of data obtained for patients with urinary free cortisol (UFC) level estimated to be fivefold the upper limit of the normal range (ULN).

Patients and settings

A total of 14 patients with EAS and eight with ACC treated in two tertiary-care university hospitals.

Intervention

Metyrapone and ketoconazole treatment in combination (along with symptomatic treatments for co-morbidities).

Main outcome

Evolution of clinically relevant endpoints (blood pressure, kalaemia and glycaemia) and biological intensity of hypercortisolism 1 week and 1 month after starting steroidogenesis inhibition.

Results

After 1 week of treatment, median UFC fell from 40.0 to 3.2 ULN and from 16.0 to 1.0 ULN in patients with EAS and ACC respectively. Median UFC after 1 month of treatment was 0.5 and 1.0 ULN in patients with EAS and ACC respectively and UFC values were normal in 73 and 86% of patients respectively. Clinical status improved dramatically along with kalaemia, glycaemia and blood pressure, allowing a decrease in the relevant treatments.

Side effects were minimal and only two patients (one EAS and one ACC) experienced plasma transaminase elevations necessitating ketoconazole withdrawal.

Conclusion

Metyrapone–ketoconazole combination therapy is well tolerated and provides rapid control of endocrine cancer-related life-threatening hypercortisolism.
Numerical Study on the Effect of Natural Gas on Aircraft Turbofan Engine Propulsion
Authors: Tarek M. Belal  , El Sayed M. Marzouk
Published: January 2015

The world has been concerned and worried about the depletion of the liquid oil fuel, besides new environmental rules are to be followed to reduce pollution hazards and global warming. The utilization of natural gas (as a near term fuel) and hydrogen (as long-term fuel) are receiving great attention, because they have less pollution effects. Since the aviation has a great deal in environmental pollution effects due to the cruise flight in the upper troposphere (supersonic aircraft) or in the lower stratosphere (subsonic aircraft) where most of the ozone concentrate, which helps in protecting the earth form ultra violet radiation. Therefore, the use of alternate fuel has a great attention in aviation. In the present study, the thrust specific fuel consumption and specific thrust for the aircraft during aircraft flight profile are predicted, when using aviation fuel and natural gas. The P&W JT9D –7R-turbofan jet engine is taken as a base line engine propelling the Boeing 747-200 aircraft as a base line aircraft with four engine nacelles mounted on wings. The model engine fuel-air cycle representation is carried out for design point calculations based on sea level static conditions and variable specific heats along engine components. The predicted engine performance results compared very well with the reported values by the manufacture. Predictions carried out using aviation fuel and natural gas show an increase in the specific thrust by 3% and decrease in the thrust specific fuel consumption by 14% and fuel to air ratio by 11%, when using natural gas.
Vibro-Acoustic Formulation of Elastically Restrained Shear Deformable Orthotropic Plates Using a Simple Shear Deformation Theory
Authors: A. Nayan  , T.Y. Kam
Published: January 2015

A method is presented for vibro-acoustic analysis of elastically restrained orthotropic shear deformable plates subjected to excitation forces at different locations. The vibration of the shear deformable plate is formulated on the basis of the Ritz method and a simple first-order shear deformation theory in which 4 rather than 5 displacement components are used to simulate the deformation of the plate. The accuracy of the modal characteristics (natural frequency and mode shape) of an orthotropic plate predicted using the proposed method is verified by those obtained using other methods. The vibration responses of the plate are used in the first Rayleigh integral to construct the sound pressure level (SPL) curves of the plate subjected to excitation forces at different locations. The suitability of the present method for sound radiation analysis is validated by comparing the SPL curve obtained using the present method with those obtained using the other methods. The effects of different system parameters on the SPL curve of the plate are studied by means of several numerical examples. It has been shown that excitation location has significant effects on the smoothness of the SPL curve.
Strategic Modeling of the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Workforce
Authors: Schell Greggory J. , Lavieri Mariel S. , Li Xiang , Toriello Alejandro , Martyn Kristy K. , Freed Gary L.
Published: January 2015

OBJECTIVE:

To assess the current pediatric nurse practitioner (PNP) workforce and to investigate the impact of potential policy changes to address forecasted shortages.

METHODS:

We modeled the admission of students into nursing bachelor’s programs and followed them through advanced clinical programs. Prediction models were combined with optimal decision-making to determine best-case scenario admission levels. We computed 2 measures: (1) the absolute shortage and (2) the expected number of years until the PNP workforce will be able to fully satisfy PNP demand (ie, self-sufficiency).

RESULTS:

There is a forecasted shortage of PNPs in the workforce over the next 13 years. Under the best-case scenario, it would take at least 13 years for the workforce to fully satisfy demand. Our analysis of potential policy changes revealed that increasing the specialization rate for PNPs by 4% would decrease the number of years required until there are enough PNPs from 13 years to 5 years. Increasing the certification examination passing rate to 96% from the current average of 86.9% would lead to self-sufficiency in 11 years. In addition, increasing the annual growth rate of master’s programs to 36% from the current maximum of 10.7% would result in self-sufficiency in 5 years.

CONCLUSIONS:

Current forecasts of demand for PNPs indicate that the current workforce will be incapable of satisfying the growing demand. Policy changes can result in a reduction in the expected shortage and potentially improve access to care for pediatric patients.
Independent Living and Romantic Relations Among Young Adults Born Preterm
Authors: Männistö Tuija , Vääräsmäki Marja , Sipola-Leppänen Marika , Tikanmäki Marjaana , Matinolli Hanna-Maria , Pesonen Anu-Katriina , Räikkönen Katri , Järvelin Marjo-Riitta , Hovi Petteri , Kajantie Eero
Published: January 2015

BACKGROUND:

Young adults born preterm at very low birth weight start families later. Whether less severe immaturity affects adult social outcomes is poorly known.

METHODS:

The study “Preterm birth and early life programming of adult health and disease” (ESTER, 2009–2011) identified adults born early preterm (<34 weeks’ gestation, N = 149), late preterm (≥34 to <37 weeks’ gestation, N = 248), and at term (≥37 weeks’ gestation, N = 356) from the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1986 and the Finnish Medical Birth Register (1987–1989), with perinatal data, medical and family history, socioeconomic status, and lifestyle from routine visits or questionnaires. Cox, logistic, and ordinal regressions estimated the hazard and odds ratios (HR and OR) with 95% confidence intervals of outcomes related to preterm birth.

RESULTS:

Compared with term-born subjects, those born early and late preterm were less likely to have cohabited with a romantic partner (HR, 0.79; [0.61–1.03] and HR, 0.80; [0.65–0.99], respectively) or experienced sexual intercourse (HR, 0.83; [0.66–1.05] and HR, 0.76; [0.63–0.92], respectively) by young adulthood. They also had higher odds of obtaining a 1-point lower score in a visual analog scale of self-perceived sexual attractiveness (OR, 1.45; [1.09–1.98] and OR, 1.44; [1.06–1.97] for early and late preterm birth, respectively). No difference was observed in the likelihood of departing from childhood home and number of individuals having their own families.

CONCLUSIONS:

Young adults born preterm experience more social challenges, which may affect their romantic relationships and future family planning.
Intranasal Triamcinolone and Growth Velocity
Authors: Skoner David P. , Berger William E. , Gawchik Sandra M. , Akbary Akbar , Qiu Chunfu
Published: January 2015

BACKGROUND:

Inadequate designs and conflicting results from previous studies prompted the US Food and Drug Administration to publish guidelines for the design of clinical trials evaluating the effects of orally inhaled and intranasal corticosteroids on the growth of children. This study conformed to these guidelines to evaluate the effect of triamcinolone acetonide aqueous nasal spray (TAA-AQ) on the growth of children with perennial allergic rhinitis (PAR).

METHODS:

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, multicenter study evaluated the effect of once-daily TAA-AQ (110 μg) on the growth velocity (GV) of children aged 3–9 years with PAR by using stadiometry at baseline (4–6 months), during treatment (12 months), and at follow-up (2 months). Hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis function was assessed by measuring urinary cortisol levels. Details of adverse events were recorded.

RESULTS:

Of 1078 subjects screened, 299 were randomized, and 216 completed the study (placebo, 107; TAA-AQ, 109). In the primary analysis (modified intent-to-treat: placebo, 133; TAA-AQ, 134), least-squares mean GV during treatment was lower in the TAA-AQ group (5.65 cm/year) versus placebo (6.09 cm/year). The difference (–0.45 cm/year; 95% confidence interval: –0.78 to –0.11; P = .01), although clinically nonsignificant, was evident within 2 months of treatment and stabilized thereafter. At follow-up, the GV approached baseline (6.70 cm/year) in the TAA-AQ group (6.59 cm/year) and decreased slightly in the placebo group (5.89 cm/year vs 6.06 cm/year at baseline). No HPA axis suppression was observed.

CONCLUSIONS:

By using rigorous Food and Drug Administration–recommended design elements, this study detected a small, statistically significant effect of TAA-AQ on the GV of children with PAR.
Sustained Lung Inflation at Birth for Preterm Infants: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Lista Gianluca , Boni Luca , Scopesi Fabio , Mosca Fabio , Trevisanuto Daniele , Messner Hubert , Vento Giovanni , Magaldi Rosario , Del Vecchio Antonio , Agosti Massimo , Gizzi Camilla , Sandri Fabrizio , Biban Paolo , Bellettato Massimo , Gazzolo Diego , Boldrini Antonio , Dani Carlo ,   for the SLI Trial Investigators
Published: January 2015

BACKGROUND:

Studies suggest that giving newly born preterm infants sustained lung inflation (SLI) may decrease their need for mechanical ventilation (MV) and improve their respiratory outcomes.

METHODS:

We randomly assigned infants born at 25 weeks 0 days to 28 weeks 6 days of gestation to receive SLI (25 cm H2O for 15 seconds) followed by nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP) or nCPAP alone in the delivery room. SLI and nCPAP were delivered by using a neonatal mask and a T-piece ventilator. The primary end point was the need for MV in the first 72 hours of life. The secondary end points included the need for respiratory supports and survival without bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD).

RESULTS:

A total of 148 infants were enrolled in the SLI group and 143 in the control group. Significantly fewer infants were ventilated in the first 72 hours of life in the SLI group (79 of 148 [53%]) than in the control group (93 of 143 [65%]); unadjusted odds ratio: 0.62 [95% confidence interval: 0.38–0.99]; P = .04). The need for respiratory support and survival without BPD did not differ between the groups. Pneumothorax occurred in 1% (n = 2) of infants in the control group compared with 6% (n = 9) in the SLI group, with an unadjusted odds ratio of 4.57 (95% confidence interval: 0.97–21.50; P = .06).

CONCLUSIONS:

SLI followed by nCPAP in the delivery room decreased the need for MV in the first 72 hours of life in preterm infants at high risk of respiratory distress syndrome compared with nCPAP alone but did not decrease the need for respiratory support and the occurrence of BPD.
Oropharyngeal Colostrum Administration in Extremely Premature Infants: An RCT
Authors: Lee Juyoung , Kim Han-Suk , Jung Young Hwa , Choi Ka Young , Shin Seung Han , Kim Ee-Kyung , Choi Jung-Hwan
Published: January 2015

OBJECTIVE:

To determine the immunologic effects of oropharyngeal colostrum administration in extremely premature infants.

METHODS:

We conducted a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial involving 48 preterm infants born before 28 weeks’ gestation. Subjects received 0.2 mL of their mother’s colostrum or sterile water via oropharyngeal route every 3 hours for 3 days beginning at 48 to 96 hours of life. To measure concentrations of secretory immunoglobulin A, lactoferrin, and several immune substances, urine and saliva were obtained during the first 24 hours of life and at 8 and 15 days. Clinical data during hospitalization were collected.

RESULTS:

Urinary levels of secretory immunoglobulin A at 1 week (71.4 vs 26.5 ng/g creatinine, P = .04) and 2 weeks (233.8 vs 48.3 ng/g creatinine, P = .006), and lactoferrin at 1 week (3.5 vs 0.9 μg/g creatinine, P = .01) were significantly higher in colostrum group. Urine interleukin-1β level was significantly lower in colostrum group at 2 weeks (55.3 vs 91.8 μg/g creatinine, P = .01). Salivary transforming growth factor-β1 (39.2 vs 69.7 μg/mL, P = .03) and interleukin-8 (1.2 vs 4.9 ng/mL, P = .04) were significantly lower at 2 weeks in colostrum group. A significant reduction in the incidence of clinical sepsis was noted in colostrum group (50% vs 92%, P = .003).

CONCLUSIONS:

This study suggests that oropharyngeal administration of colostrum may decrease clinical sepsis, inhibit secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and increase levels of circulating immune-protective factors in extremely premature infants. Larger studies to confirm these findings are warranted.
Eculizumab to Treat Antibody-Mediated Rejection in a 7-Year-Old Kidney Transplant Recipient
Authors: Chehade Hassib , Rotman Samuel , Matter Maurice , Girardin Eric , Aubert Vincent , Pascual Manuel
Published: January 2015

We report on successful early eculizumab administration to treat acute antibody-mediated rejection (ABMR) in a highly sensitized kidney transplant recipient. The recipient is a 7-year-old boy who received, 6 months after a desensitization protocol with monthly intravenous immunoglobulin infusion, a second kidney transplant in the presence of low donor-specific antibodies (DSAs). Both pretransplant lymphocytotoxic and flow cytometric crossmatch were negative. Allograft function recovered promptly, with excellent initial function. On postoperative day (POD) 4, the child developed significant proteinuria with an acute rise in serum creatinine. Allograft biopsy showed severe acute ABMR. Intravenous eculizumab (600 mg), preceded by a single session of plasmapheresis, was administered on POD 5 and 12 along with a 4-day thymoglobulin course. After the first dose of eculizumab, a strikingly rapid normalization of allograft function with a decrease in proteinuria occurred. However, because circulating DSA levels remained elevated, the child received 3 doses of intravenous immunoglobulin (POD 15, 16, and 17), with a significant subsequent decrease in DSA levels. At 9 months after transplant, the child continues to maintain excellent allograft function with undetectable circulating DSA levels. This unique case highlights the potential efficacy of using early eculizumab to rapidly reverse severe ABMR in pediatric transplantation, and therefore it suggests a novel therapeutic approach to treat acute ABMR.
The influence of lime on the compaction behaviour of soils
Authors: Hussain Monowar , Dash Sujit Kumar
Published: January 2015

This paper presents the influence of lime on the compaction behaviour of soils. A series of experiments have been carried out on six different soils having a wide range of plasticity, mixed with varied percentage of lime. Test results indicate that the maximum dry density reduces to about 3% of lime beyond which it continues to increase with increase in lime content. Correspondingly, the optimum moisture content was found to increase to 3% of lime beyond which it continued to decrease with further increase in lime content. It was observed that the compaction characteristics of lime-treated soils correlate better with the plastic limit than with the liquid and shrinkage limits. The correlations developed will be of use in efficient design and quality control of large-scale compactions in the field.
Internal friction angle variation in a kaolin/montmorillonite clay mix and microstructural identification
Authors: HATTAB M. , HAMMAD T. , FLEUREAU J.-M.
Published: January 2015

This paper presents an extensive study of a variable model clayey material, made of mixtures (in different proportions) of two mineralogically different clays. The basic clays are montmorillonite (Greek clay) characterised by a high plasticity, and kaolin P300, which is a more stable clay with low plasticity. The results show a significant variation in the mechanical properties of the mixtures, especially from 35% of montmorillonite. The behaviour exhibits an increase in strength of the material on the isotropic (and also the oedometric) path, and a marked decrease in the internal friction angle down to that of the montmorillonite. Microstructural investigation provided an explanation of these phenomena through a mechanism activated at the scale of particles.
Experimental study on crack filling by upstream fills in dams
Authors: CORREIA DOS SANTOS R.N. , CALDEIRA L.M.M.S. , MARANHA DAS NEVES E.
Published: January 2015

The paper presents the main results of a research study into the crack-filling ability of granular materials located upstream of an erosion path in the core of a zoned dam. Upstream crack fillers are usually considered in dams located in zones of high seismic activity, as a redundant element, should a crack develop in the core and the downstream filter fail to retain the eroded particles. Uniform soils of fine-sand size are highly effective at filling cracks and stopping the progression of erosion; however, they can be significantly expensive. In the interest of reducing the costs of their overuse, an experimental investigation is conducted of the extent to which gap-graded sandy gravels that are naturally present during the construction of dams can safely provide the crack-filling action. It was concluded that the sand content of the upstream material that is susceptible to suffusion, and its relation with D15Fof the filter, is critical for rapid crack filling to occur. Other parameters influencing crack-filling ability are the gravel content, the fines content and the type of the fines in the upstream soil. Practical rules to estimate the likelihood of crack filling by an upstream granular material being effective at stopping the progression of internal erosion along a concentrated leak in zoned dams are also proposed.
Perfil químico dos inalantes apreendidos no estado de Pernambuco
Authors: Antonio Gomes de Castro Neto  , Beate Saegesser Santos
Published: January 2015

As civilizações mais antigas faziam uso de substâncias inalantes encontradas de forma natural. Com a fabricação de substâncias inalantes sintéticas, muitas passaram a ser usadas de forma recreativa. O éter foi um desses primeiros solventes orgânicos sintéticos a serem utilizados e a ser relacionado com o abuso. No Brasil a lança-perfume tornava-se popular nos bailes de carnaval chegando a ser considerada a droga símbolo das festividades, contudo com sua proibição na década de 1960 seu substituto começa a ganhar notoriedade, a loló. Outros produtos comerciais como a cola de sapateiro e o thinner, por possuírem vários solventes em sua composição, também são utilizados como drogas de abuso. O comércio de alguns solventes é controlado por legislações específicas no Brasil. Contudo esses solventes são encontrados na composição da loló sendo considerada venda ilegal dessas substâncias. Os solventes utilizados na confecção da loló e presentes nas formulações da cola e do thinner causam diversos problemas a saúde, sobretudo no Sistema Nervoso Central, podendo desencadear ou facilitar o desenvolvimento de transtornos mentais e cognitivos. Este trabalho tem como objetivo estabelecer a composição química dos inalantes apreendidos no estado de Pernambuco e relacionar a composição química com as mesorregiões do estado como forma de nortear as principais localidades onde essas substâncias podem ser encontradas.
The consequences of photoperiodism for organisms in new climates
Authors: Grevstad Fritzi S. , Coop Leonard B.
Published: January 2015

A change in climate is known to affect seasonal timing (phenology) of the life stages of poikilothermic organisms whose development depends on temperature. Less understood is the potential for even greater disruption to the life cycle when a phenology shift exposes photoperiod‐sensitive life stages to new day lengths. We present a conceptual framework and model to investigate the ways that photoperiod‐cued diapause can interact with a change in climate or latitude to influence voltinism in poikilothermic organisms. Our degree‐day phenology model combines detailed spatial climate data, latitude‐ and date‐specific photoperiods, and development and photoperiod response parameters. As an example, we model the biological control beetle Galerucella calmariensis and map the number of generations expected following its introduction into diverse climates throughout the continental United States. Incorporation of photoperiodism results in a complex geography of voltinism that differs markedly from predictions of traditional phenology models. Facultative multivoltine species will be prone to univoltism when transported to either warmer or southern climates due to exposure of the sensitive stage to shorter day lengths. When moved to more northern locations, they may attempt too many generations for the season duration thereby exposing vulnerable life stages to harsh weather in the fall. We further show that even small changes in temperature can result in large and unexpected shifts in voltinism. Analogous effects may be expected for organisms from wide variety of taxa that use photoperiod as a seasonal cue during some stage of their life cycle. Our approach is useful for understanding the performance and impacts of introduced pests and beneficial organisms as well as for predicting responses of resident species to climate change and climate variability.
Protecting California Oil Fields from Damage by Infiltrating Water
Authors: McLaughlin R.P.
Published: January 2015

Published in Petroleum Transactions, AIME, Volume 52, 1916, pages 225–238.

In most branches of the mining industry it is a well-recognized fact that care must be taken to protect the mineral deposit from undue physical injury. It is comparatively easy to grasp this idea when the mineral is a solid and the lives of workmen depend directly upon the care with which it is removed from its natural position, but when the product is a liquid drawn up from pools several thousand feet beneath the surface of the ground through openings only a few inches in diameter, it requires some imagination to picture underground conditions and the changes which must often occur. The development of the petroleum deposits of California has been attended by numerous accidents, the results of which are readily noticed at the top of the wells and in the profit and loss accounts of the operators. Determination of the cause of these accidents has been the subject of considerable study, which naturally has fallen upon men familiar with technical methods.

The greatest damage to the oil deposits of California has resulted from water finding its way into the oil-bearing sands, and it is the purpose of this paper to set forth briefly this phase of the oil industry. Much of the material here presented has previously appeared in publications issued by the California State Mining Bureau, which, under the direction of State Mineralogist Fletcher McN. Hamilton, has investigated the subject and taken steps toward improvement of conditions. The writer, having been in charge of this branch of the Bureau work, has gained considerable knowledge of existing conditions.

Generally speaking, the oil-bearing formations of California are soft, unconsolidated sand beds, separated by clay strata, which are also soft. Some of the sand beds carry water instead of oil. All of the beds are more or less separated, probably being of lenticular shape. Very few of the beds in the oil fields lie flat or undisturbed over any great area. Folding and tilting are common, and faulting also occurs in some of the fields. The accumulation of oil is not confined to any single structural feature, such as the anticline, but occurs in many other structural features. Water-bearing strata occur in practically every oil field in the State. Complete data are not at hand for a comparison of the damage done in the various fields.

T.P. 052–18
Sliding Royalties for Oil and Gas Wells
Authors: Johnson Roswell H.
Published: January 2015

Published in Petroleum Transactions, AIME, Volume 52, 1916, pages 322–328.

The principle of sliding or graduation in royalties is accomplished either by the block, period, cumulative, or class method.

The block method calls for a very low royalty rate on all oil produced up to a certain amount. This amount would normally be that which is believed to suffice to repay the cost of the well. A higher rate would be charged after the well is making a profit. This method, common in many industries, is peculiarly inadaptable to any industry such as this where the productivity per day of the units gradually and inevitably decreases. This, for reasons given later, is because it forces an early abandonment of the well and so offends against conservation.

In the period method, the royalty rate is changed by some definite amount when the well produces less than a specified quantity per day or other given unit of time. While simple to explain, it operates badly be- cause a great deal is made to depend upon a small reduction in production, whereas the reduction as a matter of fact declines rather erratically owing to the exigency of lease management, connecting of tankage, and vagaries of the gaugers.

These disadvantages are obviated by the cumulative method. In this method, all the production less than a certain amount per week has one rate of royalty, or none at all, and the oil produced in excess of that amount pays an additional rate of royalty. In the long run the calculation is probably no greater than with the period method, for simple tables will be published and printed in the oil papers that can be cut out, enabling quick readings to be made. Even without the table the calculation is easy with the few royalty rates, two or three, which would be used. In this method, the amount paid in royalty declines gradually, rather than suddenly as in the period method.

T.P. 052–23
Depreciation as Applied to Oil Properties
Authors: Henry Philip W.
Published: January 2015

Published in Petroleum Transactions, AIME, Volume 52, 1916, pages 560–570.

There is a difference of opinion among engineers on the subject of depreciation in general, and still more on its application to any given case The committee which was appointed by the American Society of Civil Engineers to make a report on Valuation of Public Utilities, states "There is no subject connected with valuation about which there are more diverse views than those relating to depreciation;" and in the discussion which took place upon the presentation of the preliminary report of this committee in January, 1914, that part of the report dealing with depreciation called forth more discussion than any other. From this discussion it was evident that the word "depreciation" was not always used in the same sense, so it is quite important that some definition be adopted. As this paper relates to the proper method of treating depreciation by corporations or individuals operating oil properties, both of which must make a return of annual net income to the government in connection with the income tax, it will be in order to adopt the definition of the Internal Revenue Bureau. Under date of Mar. 29, 1910, the Commissioner of Internal Revenue of the Treasury Department stated "Deduction on account of depreciation of property must be based on lifetime of property, its cost, value and use." Again, on Form 1035, "Return of Annual Net Income" for miscellaneous corporations (Section 2, Act of Congress approved Oct. 3, 1913), a deduction from gross income is allowed for "Total amount of depreciation for the year."

T.P. 051–37