bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pressure-Transient Analysis of Bottomhole Pressure and Rate Measurements by Use of System-Identification Techniques
Authors: Mansoori M.. , Van den Hof P. M. , Jansen J.-D.. -D. , Rashtchian D..
Published: August 2015

This study presents a novel perspective on pressure-transient analysis (PTA) of downhole-pressure and flow-rate data by use of system-identification (SI) techniques as widely used in advanced process engineering. Key features of the paper are that it considers the classic PTA process from a system-theoretical perspective; derives the causal structure of the flow dynamics; proposes a method to deal with continuously varying pressure and flow-rate signals contaminated with correlated noise, which estimates physical reservoir parameters through a systematic matching procedure in the frequency domain; and can cope with arbitrary (i.e., not necessarily piecewise constant) flow-rate signals. To this end, the wellbore and the reservoir are modeled as two distinct two-port power-transmitting systems that are bilaterally coupled at their common boundary. This structure reveals that, from an SI perspective, the wellbore dynamics affect the bottomhole data as a feedback mechanism. Because of this feedback structure, it is necessary to use closed-loop SI techniques, and, because of the presence of sensor noise, the reservoir model cannot be identified solely from the bottomhole measurements. Therefore, an auxiliary signal is needed, for which we choose the surface flow rate, although other signals, such as the bottomhole temperature, could potentially also be used. Then a suitable closed-loop SI technique is the so-called two-stage method. The first stage of the algorithm removes the dynamic effects of the wellbore from the noisy data, and the second stage identifies the reservoir model in terms of rational polynomials. Thereafter, the usual physical reservoir parameters (e.g., averaged permeability and skin factor) are obtained through matching the results of the identified reservoir model and those of typical analytical reservoir models in the frequency domain, as an alternative to classic graphical or numerical type-curve analysis. The method does not rely on a piecewise constant approximation of the flow-rate signal, unlike other known PTA methods such as time-domain deconvolution. Six numerical experiments, by use of a synthetic data set, and one field example, by use of data from a real gas well, illustrate the key aspects of the proposed method.
Improving Winter Wheat Grain Yield and Water Use Efficiency through Fertilization and Mulch in the Loess Plateau
Authors: Chen Yanlong , Liu Ting , Tian Xiaohong , Wang Xiaofeng , Chen Huilin , Li Meng , Wang Shaoxia , Wang Zhaohui
Published: August 2015

Revealing the response of cereal yield and water use efficiency (WUE) to water management practices is crucial for achieving high and stable grain yields in drylands. A 3‐yr field study was conducted to develop a high‐yield, water‐saving cultivation strategy for winter wheat in the Loess Plateau of China. The study's treatments included (i) a control (CK), that is, no mulch or fertilizer, (ii) nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers (NP), (iii) plastic film mulch plus fertilizers (NP+PF), (iv) straw mulch plus fertilizers (NP+S), and (v) plastic film combined with straw mulch plus fertilizers (NP+PF+S). The results indicated that, compared with CK, the NP treatment improved the grain yield (112%) and WUE (96%) of winter wheat but resulted in a 12% reduction in soil water storage after the jointing stage. With the NP+S treatment, there was no difference recorded in grain yield, yield components, or WUE of winter wheat (relative to the NP treatment). With the NP+PF treatment, there was a 53% increase in grain yield, a 46% increase in WUE, and a 21% increase in soil water storage after jointing compared to the NP treatment. The plastic film could also modify soil temperature, resulting in maximized soil water retention. Additionally, the NP+PF and NP+PF+S treatments resulted in similar results. Taking into account agricultural, environmental, and economic factors, in addition to optimal fertilization (NP), plastic film mulch is the recommended practice for maximum yield and water retention in tablelands, whereas plastic film combined with straw mulch is recommended in terraces.
El Niño–Southern Oscillation Effects on Winter Wheat in the Southeastern United States
Authors: Woli Prem , Ortiz Brenda V. , Johnson Jerry , Hoogenboom Gerrit
Published: August 2015

The winter wheat (Triticum aestivumL.) growing season in the southeastern United States occurs during the period when the climate of this region is strongly influenced by El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO). The ENSO‐based interannual climate variability might influence growth, maturity, and yield of winter wheat. Because different maturity groups of wheat cultivars head at different times of the year, the groups are expected to have different impacts of climate variability. This study examined whether the yield difference between early and late maturity groups of winter wheat cultivars grown in this region were associated with ENSO‐based climate. Data on yield, planting date, and heading date were obtained for a number of wheat cultivars grown at four locations in Georgia during the 1975 to 2012 period. Wheat cultivars were classified according to heading date as early or late maturity, and yield differences between maturity groups and among ENSO phases were examined using the Wilcoxon rank sum test. Results showed that the early maturity group could out‐yield the late maturity group in southern locations during La Niña, whereas the late group could out‐yield the early group in northern locations during El Niño. Of all ENSO phases, La Niña was associated with the largest yields. During El Niño, the yield difference between early and late groups increased with an increase in latitude, whereas during La Niña, the yield difference increased with a decrease in latitude. These findings might be helpful to wheat growers in this region in optimizing decisions regarding planting date and cultivar selection to reduce the risks related to climate variability.
Physiological Strategies of Sunflower Exposed to Salt or Alkali Stresses: Restriction of Ion Transport in the Cotyledon Node Zone and Solute Accumulation
Authors: Wang Xiaoping , Jiang Peng , Ma Ying , Geng Shujuan , Wang Shucai , Shi Decheng
Published: August 2015

Agricultural productivity is severely affected by soil salinity. In this study, seedlings of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) cultivar Baikuiza 6 were treated with Na‐based salts to induce salt stress or alkali stress. Salt had no effect on sunflower growth, while high concentrations of alkali significantly inhibited sunflower growth. The main characteristic for sunflower in response of salt or alkali stress was that it kept higher K+ concentration and lower Na+/K+ ratio, which is closely related to regulation of Na+ and K+ transport on cotyledon node zone (CNZ). The CNZ of sunflower restricted Na+ transport resulting in less Na+ in leaf than in root under both stresses, and it maintained relatively low Na+/K+ ratio in leaf and high selectivity for K+ vs. Na+. However, CNZ slightly restricted NO3− and H2PO4− transport under alkali stress compared with salt stress. This led to enhanced organic acid content to remedy the shortage of inorganic anions, and energy consumption is greater than for salt stress, which might be one cause of reductions of relative growth rate (RGR) under alkali stress.
Effect of Nitrogen, Row Spacing, and Plant Density on Yield, Yield Components, and Plant Physiology in Soybean–Wheat Intercropping
Authors: Moreira Adônis , Moraes Larissa A. C. , Schroth Götz , Mandarino José M. G.
Published: August 2015

The introduction of cultivars with earlier development and greater productivity has raised questions about the effect of management practices on soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr] yield in a no‐till (NT) system. The objective of the study was to evaluate the interaction between N fertilization, row spacing, and plant density on photosynthetic index, yield components, yield, and nutritional status of soybean–wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) intercropping. For soybean cultivation, three N rates, three row spacing, and three planting densities were assessed during two growing seasons, while for wheat, 17.5‐cm row spacing and no N fertilization were used. No significant effects of row spacing and plant density were detected. The yields for 0 and 40 kg N ha−1 rates were similar, while applying 20 kg N ha−1 reduced, on average, soybean yield by 14.5%. The planting densities, row spacing, and N rates did not affect wheat yield, or oil and protein content in soybean seeds. Soil temperature (ST), intercellular carbon dioxide concentration (Ci), and intrinsic water use efficiency (IWUE) increased, while plant height, chlorophyll content (CC), and transpiration rate (Trmmol) decreased with increasing spacing of soybean. Plant density changed ST, Ci, chlorophyll content, and stomatal conductance (gs). Leaf tissue analysis indicated adequate nutrient levels in soybean and wheat. The current management practice with 50‐cm row spacing, no N fertilization to complement biological nitrogen fixation (BNF), and 333,000 plants ha−1 is adequate for soybean cultivation, while N supplied from soil organic matter (SOM) and BNF is sufficient to meet requirements of associated wheat crops.
Stem Cells in Endometrium and Endometriosis
Authors: Ulukus Murat
Published: August 2015

Endometriosis is a common chronic gynecological disease that is classically defined by the presence of endometrial stromal and glandular tissues outside the uterine cavity. Pelvic pain and infertility are the nonspecific but the most common symptoms of the disease; however, no currently definitive treatment has been developed since its pathogenesis has not been completely understood. Currently, none of the proposed conventional theories can explain all aspects of endometriosis. Recent evidence supports the presence of endometrial stem/progenitor cells and their possible involvement in endometrial regeneration and differentiation. The stem cell theory is a new hypothesis which may clarify the underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms of endometriosis. However, this theory could not only account for an alternative pathogenic mechanism of endometriosis but could also be involved in all conventional theories. This article will review the evidence for the presence of endometrial stem/progenitor cells, their possible sources and their possible involvement in the pathogenesis of endometriosis.
The Importance of Pelvic Nerve Fibers in Endometriosis
Authors: Miller Emily J , Fraser Ian S
Published: August 2015

Several lines of recent evidence suggest that pelvic innervation is altered in endometriosis-affected women, and there is a strong presumption that nerve fibers demonstrated in eutopic endometrium (of women with endometriosis) and in endometriotic lesions play roles in the generation of chronic pelvic pain. The recent observation of sensory C, sensory A-delta, sympathetic and parasympathetic nerve fibers in the functional layer of endometrium of most women affected by endometriosis, but not demonstrated in most women who do not have endometriosis, was a surprise. Nerve fiber densities were also greatly increased in myometrium of women with endometriosis and in endometriotic lesions compared with normal peritoneum. Chronic pelvic pain is complex, and endometriosis is only one condition which contributes to this pain. The relationship between the presence of certain nerve fibers and the potential for local pain generation requires much future research. This paper reviews current knowledge concerning nerve fibers in endometrium, myometrium and endometriotic lesions, and discusses avenues of research that may improve our knowledge and lead to enriched understanding and management of endometriotic pain symptoms.
Experimental Treatments of Endometriosis
Authors: Attar Rukset , Attar Erkut
Published: August 2015

Endometriosis is defined as the presence of endometrial gland and stroma outside the uterine cavity. It is an estrogen-dependent disease and is associated with chronic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia and infertility. The treatment of endometriosis is conservative or radical surgery, medical therapies or their combination. All currently used hormonally active treatments are effective in the treatment of endometriosis; however, the adverse effects of these hormonal treatments limit their long-term use. Moreover, recurrence rates are high after cessation of therapy, and the treatments have no benefit in endometriosis-associated infertility. Therefore, researchers are working on new treatment modalities with improved side effects, mainly focusing on the molecular targets involved in etiopathogenesis of endometriosis. Here we summarized these novel treatments modalities.
Pearls and Pitfalls in Surgery for Endometrioma
Authors: Urman Bulent
Published: August 2015

Endometrioma surgery should be planned and executed very carefully as it is associated with risks that may hamper future reproductive potential. Symptoms, age, risk of malignancy, bilaterality, ovarian reserve, and desire to have children should all be taken into account prior to surgical intervention. Cyclic and noncyclic severe pain may be an indicator or deep infiltrating diseases. Laparoscopic surgery is the gold standard, however, the issue of resection versus ablation should be further studied.
Endometriosis in Teenagers
Authors: Saridoğan Ertan
Published: August 2015

Endometriosis affects a significant proportion of teenagers. Published studies suggest that laparoscopically confirmed endometriosis could be found in over 60% of adolescent girls undergoing laparoscopic investigation for pain, in 75% of girls with chronic pelvic pain resistant to treatment and in 70% of girls with dysmenorrhea and in approximately 50% of girls with chronic pelvic pain not necessarily resistant to treatment. Both early and advanced forms, including deep endometriosis have been reported to be present in teenagers. It has recently been claimed that deep endometriosis has its roots in teenage years. Risk factors include obstructive mullerian anomalies, family history, early menarche and early onset dysmenorrhea. Both surgical and medical treatment approaches are used for treatment in this age group, but care should be taken when treatment with GnRHa and progestins is being considered due to their potential impact on bone formation. Further studies are urgently needed to determine whether early diagnosis and treatment of teenage endometriosis lead to better long term outcomes or simply increase number of interventions without preventing progression of the disease.
Adenomyosis: What is New?
Authors: Senturk Levent M , Imamoglu Metehan
Published: August 2015

Adenomyosis is described as the benign invasion of endometrium into the myometrium, with endometrial glands and stroma surrounded by the hypertrophic and hyperplastic myometrium. It may affect 20% of female population and most widely seen among perimenopausal and multiparous women. Its etiopathogenesis, diagnosis, clinical findings and current various treatment options will be discussed in this article.
Copper oxide nano-fluid stabilized by ionic liquid for enhancing thermal conductivity of reservoir formation: Applicable for thermal Enhanced Oil Recovery processes
Authors: Barahoei M. , Hezave Zeinolabedini , Sabbaghi S. , Ayatollahi Sh.
Published: August 2015

Since the oil reservoirs are limited and energy demand is increasing, seeking
for high efficient EOR processes or enhancing the efficiency of current
proposed EOR methods for producing trapped oil from reservoirs are highly
investigated. As a way out, it is possible to couple the EOR and
nanotechnology to utilize the efficiency of both methods together. Regarding
this possibility, in the current study, in the first stage of investigation
stable and uniform water-based solution of nano size particles of copper
oxide with different concentrations (0.01-0.05 M) were prepared and then
injected into the core samples. In the first stage, the effects of different
surfactants respect to their concentrations was investigated. Then,
different scenarios of using nano-fluid as a thermal conductivity modifier
were examined. The obtained results clearly demonstrate that changing
concentration of nano particles of copper oxide from 0.01 M to 0.05 M is
able to enhance the thermal conductivity of rocks from 27 % to 48 % compared
with the thermal conductivity of dry core.
Accounting Information Systems and Ethics Research: Review, Synthesis, and the Future
Authors: Guragai Binod , Hunt Nicholas C. , Neri Marc P. , Taylor Eileen Z.
Published: August 2015

The rapid evolution of technology and the increasingly integrated nature of Accounting Information Systems (AIS) in business provide opportunities for those who interact with these systems to act unethically. Accountants, as the managers of accounting information systems and gatekeepers of assets, records, and reporting, have a responsibility to understand and address ethical dilemmas related to these responsibilities in their organizations. A summary of AIS and ethics research calls attention to gaps in the literature and provides directions for future research. The ETHOs framework, which categorizes factors as environmental, technological, human, and organizational, provides a model for researchers to examine ethical issues related to the AIS functions of recordkeeping, reporting, and control.
Use of Physical Therapy for Low Back Pain by Medicaid Enrollees
Authors: Fritz Julie M. , Kim Jaewhan , Thackeray Anne , Dorius Josette
Published: August 2015

Background

Medicaid insures an increasing proportion of adults in the United States. Physical therapy use for low back pain (LBP) in this population has not been described.

Objective

The study objectives were: (1) to examine physical therapy use by Medicaid enrollees with new LBP consultations and (2) to evaluate associations with future health care use and LBP-related costs.

Design

The study was designed as a retrospective evaluation of claims data.

Methods

A total of 2,289 patients with new LBP consultations were identified during 2012 (mean age=39.3 years [SD=11.9]; 68.2% women). The settings in which the patients entered care and comorbid conditions were identified. Data obtained at 1 year after entry were examined, and physical therapy use was categorized with regard to entry setting, early use (within 14 days of entry), or delayed use (>14 days after entry). The 1-year follow-up period was evaluated for use outcomes (imaging, injection, surgery, and emergency department visit) and LBP-related costs. Variables associated with physical therapy use and cost outcomes were evaluated with multivariate models.

Results

Physical therapy was used by 457 patients (20.0%); 75 (3.3%) entered care in physical therapy, 89 (3.9%) received early physical therapy, and 298 (13.0%) received delayed physical therapy. Physical therapy was more common with chronic pain or obesity comorbidities and less likely with substance use disorders. Entering care in the emergency department decreased the likelihood of physical therapy. Entering care in physical medicine increased the likelihood. Relative to primary care entry, physical therapy entry was associated with lower 1-year costs.

Limitations

A single state was studied. No patient-reported outcomes were included.

Conclusions

Physical therapy was used often by Medicaid enrollees with LBP. High rates of comorbidities were evident and associated with physical therapy use. Although few patients entered care in physical therapy, this pattern may be useful for managing costs.
Cross sectional study of knowledge and awareness among MCH beneficiaries about antenatal and infant care in rural Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Elavarasan Elayarani , Padhyegurjar Manasi S. , Padhyegurjar Shekhar B.
Published: August 2015

Aims and Objective: Mother and child together form the majority of the population in developing countries. Though they have maximum number of health services attributed to them, morbidity and mortality rates for antenatal women and children are very high. Lack of comprehensionof preventive services is one of the important reasons for this. This study was planned with the aim of assessing the knowledge and awareness levels among pregnant women about antenatal care and regarding various aspects of new born and infant care among mothers of under three.Materials and Methods:This is a community based cross- sectional study involving beneficiaries attending the Rural Health Centre of a teaching Medical College, in Tamil Nadu.Results: Awareness about routine antenatal care, danger signs of pregnancy and preparation for emergency labour were observed to be poor among antenatal women. Knowledge about new born care, infant feeding practices, immunization, newborn and childhood illnesses were all found inadequate among mothers of under three. All the aspects were better in antenatal women who were educated, could read Tamil, and belonged to joint family. But these factors had no effect of mothers of under three. Health workers and family members were the major source of information for both the groups.Conclusion: Knowledge is observed to be poor, inspite of all the participants being beneficiaries of Rural Health Centre and the majority of them being educated up to secondary standard. Efficient use of existing health services, giving health education sessions with precise messages will help to increase awareness.Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.7(1) 2015 59-65
Inter district variation in child health promotion practices: A comparative study between the two districts in a South Indian state
Authors: Baliga B Shantharam , Rao Suchetha , Jain Animesh , Nagaraj K , Srikanth BK
Published: August 2015

Background: Inter district variations in health parameters can be conducive for policy making with regards to child health status and healthcare utilization.Aims and Objectives: We carried out this study to understand district-wide variations in child health promotion practices in well performing Dakshina Kannada (DK) and poorly performing Bellary districts of Karnataka state of South India.Materials and Methods: Data was collected by cross sectional door to door community survey carried out among 2203 households of DK district and 2158 households of Bellary district. The Institutional Ethics Committee had approved this studyResult: Initiation of breast feeding within 2 hours was seen in 92.2% mothers in DK and 43.2% mothers in Bellary. Higher rates of prelacteal feeds (DK 16% Bellary 68.1 %) and delayed complementary feeding (DK 39.2 % Bellary  64.9%) was observed in Bellary. Home deliveries were negligible in DK but in Bellary almost half of the mothers had delivered at home .Fever was recognized as danger sign in majority, while awareness of all danger signs was seen in 44.4 % in DK and 14.8 % in Bellary. 28 % in Bellary had delayed health seeking.Conclusion: There is inter district variation child health promotional practices and health seeking and need due consideration by health policy makers.Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.7(1) 2015 88-92
Toxic and essential metals in placenta and its relation with lipid peroxides/glutathione status in pre-term and full-term deliveries
Authors: Singh Laxmi , Agarwal Priyanka , Anand Madhu , Taneja Ajay
Published: August 2015

Aims and Objectives: Pre-term birth is worldwide problem, little is known about oxidative stress in placental tissue due to metals exposure of women during pregnancy. To seek correlation between concentration of metals and redox status in placental tissue of women with pre-term delivery and compared with those of women with the full-term delivery.Materials and Methods: A hospital based case–control study was conducted, total 80 pregnant women were selected for this study i.e., 30 females who delivered pre-term babies (gestational age <37 week) serve as study group and 50 females who delivered full term babies (gestational age > 37 week) serve as control group. Concentrations of metals lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), and (Cu), malondialdehyde (MDA) end product of lipid peroxidation and glutathione (GSH) were measured in placenta of study group and control group. Data were analyzed using Students t- test, chi square and linear regression.Results: In preterm cases level of malondialdehyde (MDA) and metals (Cd and Pb) were significantly higher, while level of GSH and some metals (Fe, Zn and Cu) were significantly lower in pre-term cases when compared to full-term cases. There were significant positive correlations of placental metals (Pb and Cd) with MDA (p<0.05), suggests that metals might have influenced pre-term deliveries.Conclusions: The results showed that elevated level of placental Cd and Pb induced oxidative stress which might implicate in pre-term deliveries and higher concentration of Zn and Cu may be concerned with the defence against oxidative stress in placental tissue of full-term cases.Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.7(1) 2015 34-39
Progress in research on immunological mechanism of leprosy
Authors: Kosgei Benson Kiprono , Yun-Peng Luo
Published: August 2015

Leprosy is a chronic infection acquired after getting exposed to Mycobacterium leprae(M.Leprae), especially via contact or through nasal secretions of the affected hosts. 95% of the entire population is naturally immune to leprosy due to the inherent natural immunity against the pathogen. The components of M.leprae include the lipoarabinomannam, the mycolyl-arabinogalactan-peptidoglycan complex, the protein-peptidoglycan complex, and muramyl dipeptide which are potent inducers of inflammatory mediators, especially TNF-?. Immunologically and clinically leprosy is classified into the Tuberculoid pole, Borderline tuberculoid, Mid borderline, Borderline lepromatous and lepromatous pole. In the Tuberculoid pole, the naive CD 4 lymphocytes differentiate into either Th1 or Th17 cells. Th1 secretes IL-2, TNF-?, IFN-?, and Th17 secretes IL-17, IL- 21 and TNF-?. In the Lepromatous pole, the naive CD 4 lymphocytes differentiate into Th2 cells, which secrete IL-1?, IL-4, and IL-6 that promotes antibody formation. Knowing about the immune cells,mechanisms of their interaction and substances responsible in leprosy reactions can provide a potential way of enhancing the immune response to M.leprae especially in the Lepromatous pole or ways of preventing the nerve damage and skin lesions in leprosy.Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.7(1) 2015 1-5
Qanat System at Bidar District in Karnataka, India
Authors: Raghubans Kishore
Published: August 2015

A preliminary investigation on hydraulic system for revitalization of qanat system and emphasis model study at Bidar, Karnataka in India and in future such studies to be carried out to the other water structures.  HYDRO Nepal JournalJournal of Water, Energy and EnvironmentIssue: 17, July 2015
Effect of Sand Erosion on Turbine Components: A Case Study of Kali Gandaki “A” Hydroelectric Project (144 MW), Nepal
Authors: Chhetry Balendra , Rana Kumar
Published: August 2015

In high sediment laden river projects or silt affected power stations, the frequency of repair and maintenance of underwater parts is comparatively higher which leads to increase the overall forced outages per year for repair The extent of the major maintenance will depend on the operating condition such as suspended sediment load passing through the turbine and how the machine was loaded during the operation. This paper illustrates the analysis of sediments, effect of sand erosion and maintenance of turbine of Kali Gandaki “A” Hydroelectric Plant (144 MW). The paper also describes the repair methods used for different turbine components to minimize the effects induced by sediment erosion. HYDRO Nepal JournalJournal of Water, Energy and EnvironmentIssue: 17, July 2015
Ecosystem-based Adaptation Planning in the Panchase Mountain Ecological Region
Authors: Park Jaeyoon , Alam Mozaharul
Published: August 2015

As part of numerous efforts on adapting to climate change in Nepal, an approach of Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) is being demonstrated in the Panchase Mountain Ecological Region (PMER). Partners under the project entitled Ecosystem-based Adaptation in Mountain Ecosystems in Nepal have been implementing activities to reduce vulnerability of the PMER to climate change and enhance resilient capacity of communities and ecosystems in the region to cope with adverse impacts of climate change already being witnessed. This article places focus on the process of EbA planning and preliminary lessons learned through the project activities in particular at local and ecological level. Reflection and suggestion on EbA planning presented in the article is expected to help all stakeholders in the Himalayan region and beyond design and implement future climate change adaptation activities to be more effective and efficient while empowering local communities and ensuring social, economic and environmental sustainability.  HYDRO Nepal JournalJournal of Water, Energy and EnvironmentIssue: 17, July 2015
Diurnal Air Quality Monitoring in Khumaltar Area, Lalitpur, Nepal
Authors: Shrestha Sujen Man , Thapa Kanchan , Joshi Tista Prasai
Published: August 2015

Air pollution is becoming a serious matter of concern from different aspects of our lives. It adversely affects the well being of the individuals or cause damages to properties. Pollutants identification requires measurements by standard methods of sampling and analysis. In this study, monitoring of TSP, PM10, SO2 and NO2 were performed during the months of April – August, 2008 by using high volume sampler, i. e. Envirotech APM 451 Model. Four hours (11:00 am to 3:00 pm) of monitoring for SO2 and NO2 , 24 hours of monitoring for TSP and PM10 were carried out. SO2 concentration ranged from 4.8 ?g/m3 to 20.5 ?g/m3 and NO2 concentration ranged from 1.2 ?g/m3 to 8.8 ?g/m3 for four hour monitoring period. TSP concentration ranged from 24.7 ?g/m3 to 82.0 ?g/m3 whereas PM10 concentration ranged from 25.4 ?g/m3 to 152.4 ?g/m3 for 24 hours of monitoring. Present study concluded that the air quality of Khumaltar area in Lalitpur, Nepal met WHO as well as NAAQS standards during the study period. Nepalese cities/towns have always been thought to be serious in terms of particulate matter pollution but consideration of the trend of gasesous pollutants emitted from vehicle exhaust is recommended for future research. HYDRO Nepal JournalJournal of Water, Energy and EnvironmentIssue: 17, July 2015
Randomized controlled trials and neurosurgery: the ideal fit or should alternative methodologies be considered?
Authors: Mansouri Alireza , Cooper Benjamin , Shin Samuel M. , Kondziolka Douglas
Published: August 2015

OBJECT

Randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) are advocated to provide high-level medical evidence. However, in neurosurgery, there are barriers to conducting RCTs. The authors of this study sought to analyze the quality of neurosurgical RCTs since 2000 to determine the adequacy of their design and reporting.

METHODS

A search of the MEDLINE and EMBASE databases (2000–2014) was conducted. The medical subject heading (MeSH) terms used in the search included: “neurosurgery” OR “neurosurgical procedure,” “brain neoplasms,” “infarction” and “decompression,” “carotid stenosis,” “cerebral hemorrhage,” and “spinal fusion.” These studies were limited to RCTs, in humans, and in the English language. The Consolidated Standards for Reporting of Trials (CONSORT) and Jadad scales were used to assess the quality of RCT design and reporting. The standardized median times cited (median citations divided by years since publication) were used to assess impact. A pragmatic-explanatory continuum indicator summary-based scale was used to assess the design of the studies as primarily pragmatic or explanatory.

RESULTS

Sixty-one articles were identified, and the following subspecialties were the most common: vascular (23, 37%), followed by functional neurosurgery and neurooncology (both 13, 21%). The following nations were the primary leaders in RCTs: US (25 studies, 41%), Germany (8 studies, 13%), and the United Kingdom (7 studies, 11%). Median sample size was 100 (interquartile range [IQR] 41.5–279). The majority of the studies (40, 66%) had pragmatic objectives. The median number of times cited overall was 69 (IQR 20.5–193). The combined median CONSORT score was 36 (IQR 27.5–39). Blinding was most deficiently reported. Other areas with a relatively low quality of reporting were sample size calculation (34.2% of surgical, 38.5% of drug, and 20% of device studies), allocation concealment (28.9% of surgical, 23.1% of drug, and 50% of device studies), and protocol implementation (18.4% of surgical, 23% of drug, and 20% of device studies). The quality of reporting did not correlate with the study impact. All studies had a median Jadad score ≤ 3. Thirty-three pragmatic studies (83%) and 5 explanatory studies (25%) met the design objectives. All pragmatic studies based on drug and device trials met their objectives, while 74% of pragmatic surgical trials met their objectives.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of neurosurgical RCTs is low. The quality of RCT design and reporting in neurosurgery is also low. Many study designs are not compatible with stated objectives. Pragmatic studies were more likely to meet design objectives. Given the role of RCTs as one of the highest levels of evidence, it is critical to improve on their methodology and reporting.
Comparison of endoscope- versus microscope-assisted resection of deep-seated intracranial lesions using a minimally invasive port retractor system
Authors: Hong Christopher S. , Prevedello Daniel M. , Elder J. Bradley
Published: August 2015

OBJECT

Tubular brain retractors may improve access to deep-seated brain lesions while potentially reducing the risks of collateral neurological injury associated with standard microsurgical approaches. Here, microscope-assisted resection of lesions using tubular retractors is assessed to determine if it is superior to endoscope-assisted surgery due to the technological advancements associated with modern tubular ports and surgical microscopes.

METHODS

Following institutional approval of the tubular port, data obtained from the initial 20 patients to undergo transportal resection of deep-seated brain lesions were analyzed in this study. The pathological entities of the resected tissues included metastatic tumors (8 patients), glioma (7), meningioma (1), neurocytoma (1), radiation necrosis (1), primitive neuroectodermal tumor (1), and hemangioblastoma (1). Surgery incorporated endoscopic (5 patients) or microscopic (15) assistance. The locations included the basal ganglia (11 patients), cerebellum (4), frontal lobe (2), temporal lobe (2), and parietal lobe (1). Cases were reviewed for neurological outcomes, extent of resection (EOR), and complications. Technical data for the port, surgical microscope, and endoscope were analyzed.

RESULTS

EOR was considered total in 14 (70%), near total (> 95%) in 4 (20%), and subtotal (< 90%) in 2 (10%) of 20 patients. Incomplete resection was associated with the basal ganglia location (p < 0.05) and use of the endoscope (p < 0.002). Four of 5 (80%) endoscope-assisted cases were near-total (2) or subtotal (2) resection. Histopathological diagnosis, presenting neurological symptoms, and demographics were not associated with EOR. Complication rates were low and similar between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Initial experience with tubular retractors favors use of the microscope rather than the endoscope due to a wider and 3D field of view. Improved microscope optics and tubular retractor design allows for binocular vision with improved lighting for the resection of deep-seated brain lesions.
Anterior cingulate implants for tinnitus: report of 2 cases
Authors: De Ridder Dirk , Joos Kathleen , Vanneste Sven
Published: August 2015

Tinnitus can be distressful, and tinnitus distress has been linked to increased beta oscillatory activity in the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC). The amount of distress is linked to alpha activity in the medial temporal lobe (amygdala and parahippocampal area), as well as the subgenual (sg)ACC and insula, and the functional connectivity between the parahippocampal area and the sgACC at 10 and 11.5 Hz.

The authors describe 2 patients with very severely distressing intractable tinnitus who underwent transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) with a double-cone coil targeting the dACC and subsequent implantation of electrodes on the dACC. One of the patients responded to the implant and one did not, even though phenomenologically they both expressed the same tinnitus loudness and distress.

The responder has remained dramatically improved for more than 2 years with 6-Hz burst stimulation of the dACC. The 2 patients differed in functional connectivity between the area of the implant and a tinnitus network consisting of the parahippocampal area as well as the sgACC and insula; that is, the responder had increased functional connectivity between these areas, whereas the nonresponder had decreased functional connectivity between these areas. Only the patient with increased functional connectivity linked to the target area of repetitive TMS or implantation might transmit the stimulation current to the entire tinnitus network and thus clinically improve.
Cost minimization in treatment of adult degenerative scoliosis
Authors: Uddin Omar M. , Haque Raqeeb , Sugrue Patrick A. , Ahmed Yousef M. , El Ahmadieh Tarek Y. , Press Joel M. , Koski Tyler , Fessler Richard G.
Published: August 2015

OBJECT

Back pain is an increasing concern for the aging population. This study aims to evaluate if minimally invasive surgery presents cost-minimization benefits compared with open surgery in treating adult degenerative scoliosis.

METHODS

Seventy-one patients with adult degenerative scoliosis received 2-stage, multilevel surgical correction through either a minimally invasive spine surgery (MIS) approach with posterior instrumentation (n = 38) or an open midline (Open) approach (n = 33). Costs were derived from hospital and rehabilitation charges. Length of stay, blood loss, and radiographic outcomes were obtained from electronic medical records. Functional outcomes were measured with Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and visual analog scale (VAS) surveys.

RESULTS

Patients in both cohorts were similar in age (AgeMIS = 65.68 yrs, AgeOpen = 63.58 yrs, p = 0.28). The mean follow-up was 18.16 months and 21.82 months for the MIS and Open cohorts, respectively (p = 0.34). MIS and Open cohorts had an average of 4.37 and 7.61 levels of fusion, respectively (p < 0.01). Total inpatient charges were lower for the MIS cohort ($269,807 vs $391,889, p < 0.01), and outpatient rehabilitation charges were similar ($41,072 vs $49,272, p = 0.48). MIS patients experienced reduced length of hospital stay (7.03 days vs 14.88 days, p < 0.01) and estimated blood loss (EBL) (EBLMIS = 470.26 ml, EBLOpen= 2872.73 ml, p < 0.01). Baseline ODI scores were lower in the MIS cohort (40.03 vs 48.04, p = 0.03), and the cohorts experienced similar 1-year improvement (ΔODIMIS = −15.98, ΔODIOpen = −21.96, p = 0.25). Baseline VAS scores were similar (VASMIS = 6.56, VASOpen= 7.10, p = 0.32), but MIS patients experienced less reduction after 1 year (ΔVASMIS = −3.36, ΔVASOpen = −4.73, p = 0.04). Preoperative sagittal vertical axis (SVA) were comparable (preoperative SVAMIS = 63.47 mm, preoperative SVAOpen = 71.3 mm, p = 0.60), but MIS patients had larger postoperative SVA (postoperative SVAMIS = 51.17 mm, postoperative SVAOpen = 28.17 mm, p = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Minimally invasive surgery demonstrated reduced costs, blood loss, and hospital stays, whereas open surgery exhibited greater improvement in VAS scores, deformity correction, and sagittal balance. Additional studies with more patients and longer follow-up will determine if MIS provides cost-minimization opportunities for treatment of adult degenerative scoliosis.
Minimally invasive anterior lumbar interbody fusion for adult degenerative scoliosis with 1 or 2 dislocated levels
Authors: Flouzat-Lachaniette Charles-Henri , Ratte Louis , Poignard Alexandre , Auregan Jean-Charles , Queinnec Steffen , Hernigou Philippe , Allain Jérôme
Published: August 2015

OBJECT

Frequent complications of posterolateral instrumented fusion have been reported after treatment of degenerative scoliosis in elderly patients. Considering that in some cases, most of the symptomatology of adult degenerative scoliosis (ADS) is a consequence of the segmental instability at the dislocated level, the use of minimally invasive anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) to manage symptoms can be advocated to reduce surgical morbidity. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the midterm outcomes of 1- or 2-level minimally invasive ALIFs in ADS patients with 1- or 2-level dislocations.

METHODS

A total of 47 patients (average age 64 years; range 43–80 years) with 1- or 2-level ALIF performed for ADS (64 levels) in a single institution were included in the study. An independent spine surgeon retrospectively reviewed all the patients’ medical records and radiographs to assess operative data and surgery-related complications. Clinical outcome was reported using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and the visual analog scale (VAS) for lumbar and leg pain. Intraoperative data and complications were collected. Fusion and risk for adjacent-level degeneration were assessed.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up duration was 3 years (range 1–10 years). ODI, and back and leg pain VAS scores were significantly improved at last follow-up. A majority of patients (74%) had a statistically significant improvement in their ODI score of more than 20 points at latest follow-up and 1 had a worsening of his disability. The mean operating time was 166 minutes (range 70–355 minutes). The mean estimated blood loss was 410 ml (range 50–1700 ml). Six (5 major and 1 minor) surgical complications (12.7% of patients) and 13 (2 major and 11 minor) medical complications (27.7% of patients) occurred without death or wound infection. Fusion was achieved in 46 of 47 patients. Surgery resulted in a slight but significant decrease of the Cobb angle, and improved the pelvic parameters and lumbar lordosis, but had no effect on the global sagittal balance. At latest follow-up, 9 patients (19.1%) developed adjacent-segment disease at a mean of 2 years’ delay from the index surgery; 4 were symptomatic but treated medically, and none required iterative surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Single- or 2-level minimally invasive fusion through a minimally invasive anterior approach in some selected cases of ADS produced a good functional outcome with a high fusion rate. They were associated with a significantly lower rate of complications in this study than the historical control.
Alexander Williamson and the Modernisation of Japan
Authors: Davies Alwyn G.
Published: August 2015

One hundred and fifty years ago, five students were smuggled out of feudal Japan and came to London to learn Western technology, governance, and economics. They were put into the care of Alexander Williamson, who was Professor of Chemistry at University College London, and when they went back they, and the students who followed them, became the founders of the modern Japanese state. This is the British side of that remarkable story. Williamson's career and chemistry are briefly reviewed, followed by an account of the students’ presence in Britain, and then the commemoration of the sesquicentenary of these events.
Nutrition Profile of the Destitute Women and Children in a Selected Rehabilitation Centre in Gazipur
Authors: Hassan Nazmul , Hossain Taniza
Published: August 2015

The present study attempts to identify the nutrition profile of the destitute women and children living in a rehabilitation center, Shishu Polli Plus (SPP), Gazipur. The vision of SPP is to serve underprivileged orphan children and destitute women and rehabilitate them by providing education and skill training. Information on anthropometric data, dietary intake, prevalence of morbidity and health and nutrition knowledge of SPP beneficiaries were collected by visiting the rehabilitation center. Dietary intake was calculated using dietary weighing of 7 consecutive days. Mean energy intake of SPP inmates was 1759 Kcal (86% of RDA). Mean intake of other nutrients were- protein 43 g, fat 33g, CHO 325g, calcium 307mg, iron 17mg, vitamin A 4120 IU, thiamine l.21mg, riboflavin 0.59mg and vitamin C 61 mg. They fulfilled the RDA for protein (96%), vitamin A (240%), and thiamine (ll8%). They were deficient in calcium (61% of RDA), iron (77% of RDA), riboflavin (48% of RDA) and vitamin C (130% of RDA; without considering cooking loss). Anthropometric assessments of the inmates indicated the presence of double burden of malnutrition at SPP. The great majority of the children (specially under-5) were undernourished; while at the same time about 9% of all adult women were found obese (BMI >25). Overall one in five children in SPP was found to be stunted. The situation however changes dramatically with age. A higher prevalence of stunting was reported with the lower age group of children. According to the weight for age and weight for height classification of nutritional status, about 30 per cent of all children residing at SPP were underweight and one quarter of all SPP children were, wasted. SPP environmental hygiene was much appreciated and the personal hygiene of SPP was far better than those of their counterparts in rural areas. The morbidity reporting was very few except for skin diseases. But SPP inmates' knowledge on nutrition and health was very poor. The study findings are encouraging in that the dietary intakes, anthropometry and the knowledge base (nutrition and health) of the SPP beneficiaries are comparable to those of their counterparts in the rural Bangladesh. This implies that without SPP interventions and attention the real life situation for these inmates would have been different. SPP has been trying very hard to bring meaningful changes in the life and living of these destitute.
Studies on Feeding Effect of Different Levels of Iodine in Salts at Consumption Level
Authors: Huq AK Obidul , Zubail Md Abu , Mohiduzzaman Md , Shaheen Nazma , Bhuyan Md Aminul Haque
Published: August 2015

A prospective cohort study was undertaken to determine the optimum level of iodine in salts at household level which is best suitable to fulfill daily requirements and not excrete too much iodine in urine. A total number of 99 households of 3rd categories and 4th categories employees of Dhaka University, Bangladesh, living in university campus, were randomly divided into 3 groups. A total 778 causal urine samples from 351 individuals of the total households were collected and urinary iodine was estimated by the wet digestion method adapted by Gutekunst et.al. to determine the feeding effect of different levels of iodine in salts. The overall median urinary iodine were 202.7, 196.9 and 238.0 µg/l during baseline study and baseline consumption pattern showed that mean iodine content of salts were 41.6, 34.1 and 36.9 ppm in group-1, group-2 and group-3 respectively. The first follow-up results showed that the overall median urinary iodine were 92.9, 165.2 and 265.6 µg/l and at that time their average iodine content of the experimental salts were 17.5, 27.5 and 45 ppm in group-1, group-2 and group-3 respectively. During first follow-up the majority (72.7%) of the selected population were biochemically iodine deficient in group-1 whereas, almost all (99.1 %) were normal in group-2 and a remarkable fraction of the population (37.9%) excreted excessive urinary ' iodine in group-3. The second follow-up findings indicates the overall median urinary iodine were 156.5, 169.3 and 180.3 µg/l in group-1, group-2 and group-3 respectively and at that time their experimental salt contained same amount of iodine (25-30 ppm). Iodine nutriture status of the study subjects during second follow-up revealed that almost all subjects (97.3%) were normal in group-!, on the other hand, biochemically deficient or excessive excretion of urinary iodine was not observed in group-2 and group-3 i.e. all of the subjects were within the normal range (UI 100-299.99 µg/l) of urinary iodine excretion.