bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cortex Removal After Laser Cataract Surgery and Standard Phacoemulsification: A Critical Analysis of 800 Consecutive Cases
Authors: Conrad-Hengerer Ina , Schultz Tim , Jones Jason J. , Hengerer Fritz H. , Dick H. Burkhard
Published: June 2014

PURPOSE:

To evaluate the ease of anterior cortex removal and hydrodissection of the lens in femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery compared with standard phacoemulsification.

METHODS:

In the femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery group (400 eyes), a femtosecond laser was used for capsulotomy and followed by lens fragmentation. In the standard group, the capsulorhexis was performed manually. In both groups, a normal hydrodissection was set, the nucleus was aspirated with or without ultrasound phacoemulsification energy, and residual cortex removal and posterior capsule polishing were performed using bimanual irrigation/aspiration. The primary end point was the time (in seconds) required for the removal of the cortex from instrument insertion in the eye until aspiration tip removal. Secondary end points were the effective phacoemulsification time, quality of the anterior capsule, and anterior or posterior capsule ruptures.

RESULTS:

Cortex removal time measured 30 ± 13 seconds (range: 10 to 76 seconds) for the standard group and 27 ± 10 seconds (range: 9 to 72 seconds) for the femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery group (
P
< .005). After laser-assisted capsulotomy, one capsule was still adherent following removal by forceps. No anterior or posterior capsular tears were observed in either group.

CONCLUSIONS:

In femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery, the biaxial cortex removal time was comparable with the time in standard phacoemulsification.

[
J Refract Surg.
2014;30(8):516–520.]
Ultra-Widefield Fluorescein Angiography Reveals Retinal Phlebitis in Susac’s Syndrome
Authors: Klufas Michael A. , Dinkin Marc J. , Bhaleeya Swetangi D. , Chapman Kristin O. , Riley Claire S. , Kiss Szilárd
Published: June 2014

A 23-year-old woman with history of headaches and auditory changes presented with acute-onset visual field loss in the right eye. The combination of multiple retinal branch artery occlusions of the right eye on funduscopic examination, characteristic white matter lesions in the corpus callosum on magnetic resonance imaging, and hearing loss on audiometric testing led to a diagnosis of Susac’s syndrome. Ultra-widefield fluorescein angiography revealed involvement of the retinal veins, which has not been previously reported with this condition. Additionally, ultra-widefield indocyanine green angiography demonstrated changes in the choroidal circulation, which are controversial in this syndrome.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina.
2014;45:335–337.]
Compression Schemes with Data Reordering for Ordered Data
Authors: Lee Chun-Hee , Chung Chin-Wan
Published: June 2014

Although there have been many compression schemes for reducing data effectively, most schemes do not consider the reordering of data. In the case of unordered data, if the users change the data order in a given data set, the compression ratio may be improved compared to the original compression before reordering data. However, in the case of ordered data, the users need a mapping table that maps the original position to the changed position in order to recover the original order. Therefore, reordering ordered data may be disadvantageous in terms of space. In this paper, the authors consider two compression schemes, run-length encoding and bucketing scheme as bases for showing the impact of data reordering in compression schemes. Also, the authors propose various optimization techniques related to data reordering. Finally, the authors show that the compression schemes with data reordering are better than the original compression schemes in terms of the compression ratio.
Information Extraction from Microarray Data
Authors: Fiori Alessandro , Grand Alberto , Bruno Giulia , Brundu Francesco Gavino , Schioppa Domenico , Bertotti Andrea
Published: June 2014

Nowadays, a huge amount of high throughput molecular data are available for analysis and provide novel and useful insights into complex biological systems, through the acquisition of a high-resolution picture of their molecular status in defined experimental conditions. In this context, microarrays are a powerful tool to analyze thousands of gene expression values with a single experiment. A number of approaches have been developed to detecting genes highly correlated to diseases, selecting genes that exhibit a similar behavior under specific conditions, building models to predict disease outcome based on genetic profiles, and inferring regulatory networks. This paper discusses popular and recent data mining techniques (i.e., Feature Selection, Clustering, Classification, and Association Rule Mining) applied to microarray data. The main characteristics of microarray data and preprocessing procedures are presented to understand the critical issues introduced by gene expression values analysis. Each technique is analyzed, and relevant examples of pertinent literature are reported. Moreover, real use cases exploiting analytic pipelines that use these methods are also introduced. Finally, future directions of data mining research on microarray data are envisioned.
User Resistance to Software Migration
Authors: Kim Hee-Woong , Chan Hock Chuan , Lee So-Hyun
Published: June 2014

The demand for software has increased rapidly in the global industrial environment. Open source software (OSS) has exerted significant impact on the software industry. Large amounts of resources and effort have been devoted to the development of OSS such as Linux. Based on the technology adoption model (TAM), the development of Linux as the most well-known OSS with a graphical user interface designed for ease of use and a wide range of functionalities is expected to result in high levels of Linux adoption by individual users. Linux, however, currently controls about 1% of the operating system market for personal computers. The resistance of users to switch to a new operating system remains one of the major obstacles to widespread adoption of Linux among individual users. Based on the integration of the equity implementation model and the TAM, this study examines the formation of user resistance, as well as the effects of user resistance, on the migration to Linux for personal computers. This study discusses the role and effect of user resistance based on the equity implementation model in comparison with the two main determinants in the TAM. This study contributes to the advancement of theoretical understanding of Linux migration and user resistance. The findings also offer suggestions for software communities and practitioners, of OSS in particular, to promote the use of new software by individual users.
Assessing and monitoring impacts of genetically modified plants on agro-ecosystems: the approach of AMIGA project
Authors: Arpaia S. , Messéan A. , Birch N.A. , Hokannen H. , Härtel S. , Van Loon J. , Lovei G. , Park J. , Spreafico H. , Squire G.R. , Steffan-Dewenter I. , Tebbe C. , Van der Voet H.
Published: June 2014

The environmental impacts of genetically modified crops is still a controversial issue in Europe. The overall risk assessment framework has recently been reinforced by the European Food Safety Authority(EFSA) and its implementation requires harmonized and efficient methodologies. The EU-funded research project AMIGA − Assessing and monitoring Impacts of Genetically modified plants on Agro-ecosystems − aims to address this issue, by providing a framework that establishes protection goals and baselines for European agro-ecosystems, improves knowledge on the potential long term environmental effects of genetically modified (GM) plants, tests the efficacy of the EFSA Guidance Document for the Environmental Risk Assessment, explores new strategies for post market monitoring, and provides a systematic analysis of economic aspects of Genetically Modified crops cultivation in the EU. Research focuses on ecological studies in different EU regions, the sustainability of GM crops is estimated by analysing the functional components of the agro-ecosystems and specific experimental protocols are being developed for this scope.
Is Leaving Home a Hardship?
Authors: Ribar David C.
Published: June 2014

The transition of young adults from their parents' homes to other living arrangements is a major life‐course milestone. Although the causes of nest‐leaving have been extensively researched, only a few studies have examined changes in young adults' well‐being that immediately precede and follow these transitions. This study uses the Household, Income, and Labour Dynamics in Australia survey to document trajectories of financial hardships, nutrition, and other outcomes among Australians who left their parents' homes between the ages of 18 and 25 years. The study estimates multivariate fixed‐effects models that compare outcomes before and after nest‐leaving transitions to mitigate the effects of confounding characteristics. Men and women report increased financial hardships in the years that they leave home and in the first few years that follow, including going without meals and needing to ask friends and family for financial help. Women additionally report missing utility and housing payments.
Seventh cervical nerve perforating the middle scalene muscle: a possible clinical and surgical application
Authors: Silva A. , Gama H. , Siqueira S. , Sales M. , Franco A. , Casagrande M.
Published: June 2014

Introduction: In most of cases, the emergency of the nervous roots of the brachial plexus in the posterior cervical triangle occur between the anterior and middle scalene muscles. However, anatomic variations in the brachial plexus are not rare. Methods: In the laboratory of Human Anatomy of the “Faculdade de Ciências Médicas de Minas Gerais” 106 cadavers were dissected. There were dissected the cervical region of all of the cadavers bilaterally. Results: In routinely dissection in the laboratory of human anatomy of the “Faculdade de Ciencias Médicas de Minas Gerais” we've found in the left cervical region of a male cadaver the ventral branch ofthe seventh cervical nerve (C7) perforating the substance ofthe middle scalene muscle. Conclusion: Professionals that work with this region on the practice must pay attention to this and other variations in the constitution of the brachial plexus in the clinic and surgical procedures to avoid complications.
Knowledge-based virtualization of human anatomy: development of an interactive atlas of the upper limbs
Authors: Menezes T. , Lorente G. , Silva L. , Perini M. , Batigália F. , Fernandes A. , Padovani Júnior J.
Published: June 2014

Introduction: Currently, two types of atlas provide anatomical studies: those with two-dimensional images, and those compiled by interactive pictures; mostly drawn virtually. In recent decades, the development of virtual anatomical atlases has been encouraged and prioritized by both the technological advances and the need to facilitate and complement medical education. The aim of this study was to develop an interactive virtual atlas of the upper limbs. Material and Methods: A systematic dissection of three upper limbs (shoulder, arm, forearm and hand) of legally preserved cadavers in Anatomy Laboratory of São José do Rio Preto Medical School, SP (FAMERP) has been carried out. Results: A website has been developed to facilitate the learning of superficial and deep structures of the limbs comprising ten pictures showing the steps and the various structures and display devices (naming demarcated structures and text with relevant information about these). In addition, the website includes a photo gallery with subtitled images of the dissected upper limbs. Conclusion: In conclusion, virtual study of Anatomy by means of interactive-image display of dissected parts can facilitate and enhance the learning of the upper limbs.
Anatomical and morphometric study of gastrointestinal tract of donkey (Equus africanus asinus)
Authors: Jerbi H. , Rejeb A. , Erdoğan S. , Pérez W.
Published: June 2014

Introduction: We dissected and described the macroscopic anatomy of the gastrointestinal tract of the donkey. Materials and Methods: Eleven domestic donkeys of both sexes from Tunisia were used for this study. Results: Although statistically insignificant, length values of the gastrointestinal tract pertaining to the females were generally higher than those pertaining to the males. The ostium cardiacum was very narrow and its diameter was 4.42 ± 0.57 mm in the males and 6 ± 1.22 mm in females. In the first part of the duodenum, we found papilla duodeni major and papilla duodeni minor. Both papillae were located very near to each other with a distance less than 1 cm and very near to the ostium pyloricum. The cecum was divided in parts of basis, corpus and apex. Three flexures divided the ascending colon into four parts: right ventral, left ventral, left dorsal and right dorsal. The cecum, left ventral colon and right dorsal colon had more evident sacculations (Haustra ceci and coli) (Figure 5). Teniae numbers were constant in all animals as 4, 4, 4, 1, 3 and 2 for cecum, right ventral colon, left ventral colon, left dorsal colon, right dorsal colon and descending colon, respectively. Conclusion: Although the gross anatomy of the intestines of the donkey was similar to the domestic horse in general, we detected some differences between these equine species.
Comparison between linear evaluation and fractal geometry of the human and sheep heart
Authors: Delgobo M. , Olchanheski Junior L. , Favero G.
Published: June 2014

Introduction: The comparison between the anatomical heart sheep and the human heart in a straight line shows a high degree of similarity; the dimensions of the heart sheep closely resemble the human heart. Materials and Methods: All analyzes and photographs taken from the sheep heart and human heart were performed in the laboratory of human anatomy, department of health and biological sciences, State University of Ponta Grossa. The morphometric analysis included 8 specimens heart study material pertaining to the anatomy lab UEPG. The sheep hearts were obtained from slaughterhouse taking into account the relative weight next to the human, between 60 and 70kg. Measurements were taken with digital calipers. Results: Internally it is possible to observe the macroscopic similarity between the atrial ventricular chambers of the sheep heart and the human heart. In a non-linear analysis, it can be concluded that they are distinct in complexity, as the human heart shown largest value of fractal dimension in relation to the sheep heart. Conclusion: The comparative study suggests more comprehensive use of the sheep heart as a model for anatomical study, due to its proximity to the human heart, but denotes the differences in complexity between the organs through the use of fractal dimension.
Variations in the formation of the trunks of brachial plexus
Authors: Aragão J. , Melo L. , Barreto A. , Da Silva Leal A. , Reis F.
Published: June 2014

Background: The brachial plexus is a complex network of nerves that innervates the upper limbs. Variations in brachial plexus are common, as well as its relationships with other anatomical structures, gaining thus clinical and surgical importance. The aim of this study was to report variations in the formation of the trunks of brachial plexus. Material and Methods: Forty upper limbs from 20 human fetuses were used, fixed and kept in 10% formol solution. Fetal age was estimated from the hallux-calcaneus length and ranged from 20 to 37 weeks of gestation, with a mean of25.63 weeks. The plexus were dissected without the aid of optical instruments, and the access route for dissection began 2 cm below the mastoid process, followed the posterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle until the medial third of the clavicle, and then went through the deltopectoral groove until the arm. Results: Of the 40 plexuses investigated, 37 (92.5%) had the usual trunk formation, and 3 (7.5%) showed variation in its formation. Among these, in 2 (5%) plexuses of a single fetus, the upper trunk was formed by the C5, C6 and C7 roots, the middle trunk by the C8 root, and the lower trunk by the T1 root, both on left and right sides. In 1 (2.5%) plexus of another fetus, there was the formation of four trunks on the left side: the first trunk was formed by the C4 and C5 roots, the second by the C7 root, the third by the C8 root, and the forth by the T1 root. Conclusion: Studies on variations in brachial plexus should continue to draw the attention of different healthcare professionals who work directly or indirectly with this plexus in their daily routine.
Childhood obesity and its cardiovascular implications: a current view
Authors: Ornelas E. , Francica J. , Wichi R. , Maifrino L.
Published: June 2014

Obesity is a universal disease of increasing prevalence and currently assumes epidemiological characteristic, as a main public health issue in contemporary society. Results from genetic, behavioral and environmental factors and it may start at any age. However, obesity appears at early ages predisposes to its presence at later ages bringing several complications, particularly the development of cardiovascular disease. The analysis indicates that autonomic dysfunction seems to be presented among the majority of risk factors that develop this disease, suggesting the need for a deeper study of this mechanism in children population
Femoral artery in a Crab-eating fox: case report
Authors: Senos R. , Benedicto H.
Published: June 2014

Despite it is widely distributed in South America, there are few data about the anatomy of the Crab-eating fox. Once the domestic dog can be used as model for clinical and surgical approaches, the anatomical differences found between the Crab-eating fox and the domestic dog are important. The aim of this study is to describe the supplied areas of the femoral artery and its respective branches in Crab-eating Fox (Cerdocyon thous) and compare them with domestic dogs. Two pelvic limbs from one adult male animal originated from the Niteroi Zoo were used. The vascular system was filled with neoprene latex and fixed with 10% formalin to make the dissection easier. The results displayed similar arrangement for the branches of the femoral artery of the Crab-eating Fox in comparison with domestic dogs, except for the Lateral circumflex femoral artery. This artery not only supplied the Satorius muscle, Quadriceps femoris muscle but also the ventral part of the lateral abdominal wall. This study brings data to applied anatomy and biodiversity.
The Possible Trinity: Optimal Interest Rate, Exchange Rate, and Taxes on Capital Flows in a DSGE Model for a Small Open Economy
Authors: Escudé Guillermo J.
Published: June 2014

A traditional way of thinking about the exchange rate (XR) regime and capital account openness has been framed in terms of the ‘impossible trinity’ or ‘trilemma’, in which policymakers can only have 2 of 3 possible outcomes: open capital markets, monetary independence and pegged XRs. This paper is an extension of Escude (A DSGE Model for a SOE with Systematic Interest and Foreign Exchange Policies in Which Policymakers Exploit the Risk Premium for Stabilization Purposes, 2013), which focused on interest rate and XR policies, since it introduces the third vertex of the ‘trinity’ in the form of taxes on private foreign debt. These affect the risk-adjusted uncovered interest parity equation and hence influence the SOE’s international financial flows. A useful way to illustrate the range of policy alternatives is to associate them with the faces of a triangle. Each of 3 possible government intervention policies taken individually (in the domestic currency bond market, in the FX market, and in the foreign currency bonds market) corresponds to one of the vertices of the triangle, each of the 3 possible pairs of intervention policies corresponds to one of its 3 edges, and the 3 simultaneous intervention policies taken jointly correspond to its interior. This paper shows that this interior, or ‘possible trinity’ is quite generally not only possible but optimal, since the CB obtains a lower loss when it implements a policy with all three interventions.
The Causal Linkages between Sovereign CDS Prices for the BRICS and Major European Economies
Authors: Stolbov Mikhail
Published: June 2014

The article examines causal relationships between sovereign credit default swaps (CDS) prices for the BRICS and most important EU economies (Germany, France, the UK, Italy, Spain) during the European debt crisis. The cross-correlation function (CCF) approach that distinguishes between causality-in-mean and causality-in-variance and the Breitung– Candelon causality test in the frequency domain are used in the research. Both tests reveal limited dependence of the BRICS CDS (especially, in the case of Brazil, China and South Africa) on the EU CDS prices. Thus, the paper underscores the signs of decoupling in the sovereign CDS market and also supports the view that the European debt crisis has so far had a limited non-EU impact in this market.
Cosmic rays as regulators of molecular cloud properties
Authors: Padovani M. , Hennebelle P. , Galli D.
Published: June 2014

Abstract. Cosmic rays are the main agents in controlling the chemical evolution and setting the ambipolar diffusion time of a molecular cloud. We summarise the processes causing the energy degradation of cosmic rays due to their interaction with molecular hydrogen, focusing on the magnetic effects that influence their propagation. Making use of magnetic field configurations generated by numerical simulations, we show that the increase of the field line density in the collapse region results in a reduction of the cosmic-ray ionisation rate. As a consequence the ionisation fraction decreases, facilitating the decoupling between the gas and the magnetic field.
Cosmic ray particles from exploding massive stars with winds
Authors: Biermann P. L.
Published: June 2014

Abstract. The origin of cosmic rays is still unsettled. Many sources have been proposed over the years, and exploding stars still provide the most promising candidates. Here we examine one of these scenarios, and compare the resulting predictions with data: Massive stars have winds, and when these stars explode, the resulting shock runs through the wind. The observable phenomenon is called radio-supernova, and many have been observed in non-thermal radio emission. This emission allows to determine the magnetic field in the wind as a function of radius, and so allows to check, whether such explosions can achieve the high energies required and also explain the flux and the spectra of cosmic rays. The observations show this to be the case, and so we conclude that radio supernovae can explain the high-energy Galactic cosmic rays over the entire energy range, and that the spectral predictions are compatible with observations.
Seasonal contribution of terrestrial organic matter and biological oxygen demand to the Baltic Sea from three contrasting river catchments
Authors: Reader H. E. , Stedmon C. A. , Kritzberg E. S.
Published: June 2014

Abstract. To examine the potential influence of terrestrially derived DOM on the Baltic Sea, a year-long study of dissolved organic matter (DOM) was performed in three river catchments in Sweden. One catchment drains into the Bothnian Sea, while two southern catchments drain into the Baltic proper. Dissolved organic carbon (DOC) concentrations were positively correlated with discharge from forested catchments over the year. While the overall concentrations of DOC were several times higher in the southern two catchments, higher discharge in the northern catchment resulted in the annual loadings of DOC being on the same order of magnitude for all three catchments. Biological oxygen demand (BOD) was used as a proxy for the lability of carbon in the system. The range of BOD values was similar for all three catchments, however, the ratio of BOD to DOC (an indication of the labile fraction) in Ume river was four times higher than in the southern two catchments. Total annual BOD loading to the Baltic Sea was twice as high in the northern catchment than in the two southern catchments. Lower winter temperatures and preservation of organic matter in the northern catchment combined with an intense spring flood help to explain the higher concentrations of labile carbon in the northern catchment. Lower lability of DOM as well as higher colour in the southern catchments suggest that wetlands (i.e. peat bogs) may be the dominant source of DOM in these catchments, particularly in periods of low flow. With climate change expected to increase precipitation events and temperatures across the region, the supply and quality of DOM delivered to the Baltic Sea can also be expected to change. Our results indicate that DOM supply to the Baltic Sea from boreal rivers will be more stable throughout the year, and potentially have a lower bioavailability.
Distributions and stoichiometry of dissolved nitrogen and phosphorus in the iron fertilized region near Kerguelen (Southern Ocean)
Authors: Blain S. , Capparos J. , Guéneuguès A. , Obernosterer I. , Oriol L.
Published: June 2014

Abstract. During KEOPS2 (Kerguelen Ocean and Plateau Compared Study 2), we determined dissolved inorganic and organic nitrogen and phosphorus species in the naturally fertilized region of Kerguelen Island (Southern Ocean). Above 150 m, stations were clearly separated by the Polar Front (PF), with concentrations of NO3–, NO2– and PO43– overall lower north than south of the PF. Though less pronounced, a similar trend was detectable for dissolved organic nitrogen (DON) and phosphorus (DOP). At all stations offshore and above the plateau, a subsurface maximum of NH4+ was observed between 50 and 150 m. We examined nutrient stoichiometry by calculating the linear combination N* = [NO3–] − 16[PO43– ]. The majority of stations and depths revealed N* close to −3 μM, however, for surface waters north of the PF N* increased up to 6 μM. This suggests a preferential uptake of PO43– vs. NO3– by fast growing diatoms. Using the tracer TNxs = [TDN] − 16[TDP] revealed that the dissolved organic fraction significantly contributed to changes in TNxs. TNxs were negative for most stations and depths, and relatively constant in the layer 0–500 m. As for N*, the stations north of the PF had higher TNxs in the layer 0–100 m. We discuss this stoichiometric anomaly with respect to possible external sources and sinks of N and P. Additional data collected in February 2013 at two sites revealed the occurrence of a subsurface of N* located just below the pycnocline that denotes a~layer where preferential remineralization of P vs. N persists throughout the season.
An effective parameterization to quantify multiple solute flux breakthrough curves
Authors: Bloem E. , de Gee M. , de Rooij G. H.
Published: June 2014

Abstract. To understand soil and groundwater contamination we study the temporal and spatial aspects of solute transport in the unsaturated zone. One monitoring instrument that captures both aspects is the multi-compartment sampler (MCS). With the MCS developed by Bloem et al. (2010) we are able to measure the downward solute fluxes in 100 compartments at the depth of installation of the MCS, with a minimal disturbance of the flow field. Over time this dataset results in 100 individual solute flux breakthrough curves (BTCs) (temporal aspect). Sorting the BTCs in descending order of solute mass gives the spatial solute distribution curve (spatial aspect). We present a method to quantitatively characterize datasets gathered with MCS (or single samplers installed at multiple locations in a field at the same depth). The method approximates the full set of breakthrough curves using only a single function with four to eight parameters, which combines both temporal and spatial effects of solute transport in soils. This is achieved by modeling the scaled solute flux density breakthrough curves (BTCF) for each compartment as the solution of a conventional one-dimensional equilibrium convection disperion equation (CDE), without modifications. We detect and parameterize any relationships between the resulting transport velocities and dispersion coefficients of the individual BTCFs. Finally the spatial aspect is parameterized using the Beta distribution. This method is based on the flux density BTCs directly, which for transport phenomena is preferred over solute concentrations. In three experiments on undisturbed soils, the resulting approximation matched the data well.
Identification of catchment functional units by time series of thermal remote sensing images
Authors: Müller B. , Bernhardt M. , Schulz K.
Published: June 2014

Abstract. The identification of catchment functional behavior with regard to water and energy balance is an important step during the parameterization of land surface models. An approach based on time series of thermal infrared (TIR) data from remote sensing is developed and investigated to identify land surface functioning as is represented in the temporal dynamics of land surface temperature (LST). For the meso-scale Attert catchment in midwestern Luxembourg, a time series of 28 TIR images from ASTER was extracted and analyzed. The application mathematical-statistical pattern analysis techniques demonstrated a strong degree of pattern persistency in the data. Dominant LST patterns over a period of 12 years were extracted by a principal component analysis. Component values of the 2 most dominant components could be related for each land surface pixel to vegetation/land use data, and geology, respectively. A classification of the landscape by introducing "binary word", representing distinct differences in LST dynamics, allowed the separation into functional units under radiation driven conditions. It is further outlined that both information, component values from PCA as well as the functional units from "binary words" classification, will highly improve the conceptualization and parameterization of land surface models and the planning of observational networks within a catchment.
How old is the ice beneath Dome A, Antarctica?
Authors: Sun B. , Moore J. C. , Zwinger T. , Zhao L. , Steinhage D. , Tang X. , Zhang D. , Cui X. , Martín C.
Published: June 2014

Abstract. Chinese scientists will start to drill a deep ice core at Kunlun station near Dome A in the near future. Recent work has predicted that Dome A is a location where ice older than 1 million years can be found. We model flow, temperature and the age of the ice by applying a three-dimensional, thermomechanically coupled full-Stokes model to a 70 × 70 km2 domain around Kunlun station, using isotropic non-linear rheology and different prescribed anisotropic ice fabrics that vary the evolution from isotropic to single maximum at 1/3 or 2/3 depths. The variation in fabric is about as important as the uncertainties in geothermal heat flux in determining the vertical advection which in consequence controls both the basal temperature and the age profile. We find strongly variable basal ages across the domain since the ice varies greatly in thickness, and any basal melting effectively removes very old ice in the deepest parts of the subglacial valleys. Comparison with dated radar isochrones in the upper one third of the ice sheet cannot sufficiently constrain the age of the deeper ice, with uncertainties as large as 500 000 years in the basal age. We also assess basal age and thermal state sensitivities to geothermal heat flux and surface conditions. Despite expectations of modest changes in surface height over a glacial cycle at Dome A, even small variations in the evolution of surface conditions cause large variation in basal conditions, which is consistent with basal accretion features seen in radar surveys.
Osteochondral Lesion of the Hip Treated with Partial Femoral Head Resurfacing. Case Report and Six-Year Follow-up
Authors: Lea Matthew A. , Barkatali Bilal , Porter Martyn L. , Board Timothy N.
Published: June 2014

Introduction

This case describes a case of an osteochondral lesion in the femoral head and its treatment by partial resurfacing of the femoral head using the HemiCAP (Contoured Articular Prosthetic) hip resurfacing system.

Case History

A 19-year-old patient who complained of 15 months of worsening left hip pain. X-rays and MR scan revealed a large osteochondral lesion.

Surgery

A Ganz approach to the hip in the lateral position was used. The osteochondral lesion was identified, lying superiorly and centrally on the head, in the weight bearing zone. The osteochondral fragment was removed and HemiCAP prosthesis applied.

Outcome

At six-year follow-up the patient remains pain free clinically. And radiographic follow-up shows no evidence of loosening.

Conclusion

There are multiple methods of treatment described in the literature for osteochondral lesions; but treatments for defects of the femoral head are few. We conclude that partial hip resurfacing using the HemiCAP prosthesis is an effective treatment for osteochondral defects of the femoral head.
Revision of Metal-on-Metal Hip Replacements and Resurfacings for Adverse Reaction to Metal Debris: A Systematic Review of Outcomes
Authors: Matharu Gulraj S. , Pynsent Paul B. , Dunlop David J.
Published: June 2014

Purpose

This systematic review assessed evidence on outcomes following revision of MoM hip resurfacings (HRs) and total hip replacements (THRs) for adverse reaction to metal debris (ARMD).

Methods

Four electronic databases were searched between January 2009 and July 2013 to identify studies reporting clinical outcomes following revision of MoM HRs and THRs for ARMD. Only studies reporting cohorts with more than 10 metal-on-metal (MoM) hips revised for ARMD were included. Outcomes of interest following ARMD revision were: 1) complication rates; 2) re-revision rates; 3) surgical intervention other than re-revision; 4) functional outcome.

Results

Of 148 unique studies identified, six studies were eligible for inclusion containing 216 MoM hips (197 HRs and 19 THRs) revised for ARMD. Mean follow-up time from ARMD revision ranged between 21-61 months. Complication rates were 4%-50% for HR and 68% for THR. Re-revision rates were 3%-38% for HR and 21% for THR. Dislocation (n = 14), ARMD recurrence (n = 11), and acetabular loosening (n = 9) were the three commonest complications and indications for re-revision. All six studies reported between one and three cases of ARMD recurrence during follow-up. One study specifically reported on performing procedures other than re-revision with 26% requiring closed reductions for dislocated THRs. Functional outcomes following ARMD revision were good or satisfactory in all but two studies.

Conclusions

Limited evidence exists regarding outcomes following revision of MoM hips for ARMD, especially for THRs. This should be addressed in future studies and may be important when counselling asymptomatic individuals in whom revision is considered for raised blood metal ions.
Reliability of Indices Measured on Infant Hip MRI at Time of Spica Cast Application for Dysplasia
Authors: Jaremko Jacob L. , Wang Charles C. , Dulai Sukhdeep
Published: June 2014

Purpose

Infants with persistent developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) after harness treatment may be treated by operative reduction and spica casting, with post-reduction hip alignment assessed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which can demonstrate three-dimensional hip geometry. This may provide valuable information regarding prognosis and adequacy of management, but such scans are difficult to assess due to limited spatial resolution and artefacts caused by patient motion. This may account for the limited success in correlating MRI findings to clinical outcomes to date. As a first step to improving these results we tested whether MRI indices of hip deformity and quality of femoral head reduction could be reliably measured.

Procedures

We retrospectively studied children with DDH, post-spica-cast MRI, and radiographic follow-up. We measured MRI indices adapted from other reports using computed tomography (CT) and MRI, and added new indices. Inter-observer reliability and inter-index correlations were evaluated and indices adapted during the process.

Findings

We observed 55 dysplastic hips in 41 infants. Despite difficulties inherent to infant hip MRI, several indices were measured with substantial agreement (kappa up to 0.88, intra-class correlation ICC up to 0.91), with highly significant (p<0.01) correlation with each other (up to r = 0.72). Reliable indices included coronal acetabular angle, pulvinar fat-pad thickness, presence of a barrier to reduction, and grades of subluxation and dysplasia.

Conclusion

Indices on MRI scan post hip spica cast placement can be measured reliably, assessing acetabular geometry, degree of hip reduction and barriers to reduction.
Periprosthetic Femoral Fractures in Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Ohly Nicholas E. , Whitehouse Michael R. , Duncan Clive P.
Published: June 2014

Periprosthetic fractures in total hip arthroplasty (THA) are a significant problem facing hip surgeons, and were responsible for revision surgery in 9% of single stage revision THAs recorded in the National Joint Registry of England and Wales (NJR) in 2012; the 5th most common cause after aseptic loosening, osteolysis, pain and dislocation. The incidence has increased along with the number of THAs performed. Implants and techniques of THA continue to evolve, surgical indications are expanding and the number performed annually continues to rise. Furthermore, patients are undergoing THA earlier and living longer, leading to a rise in the average number of years at risk for periprosthetic fracture. In this review we will discuss the epidemiology of femoral periprosthetic fractures, their prevention, classification and the evidence base for their treatment.
Review. Fish as biofactories: indicible genetic systems and gene targeting
Authors: Rocha A. , Ruiz S. , Estepa A. , Coll J.M.
Published: June 2014

The production of recombinant human proteins for pharmaceutical products in transgenic animals is progressingslowly. Compared to mammals, fish offer easier genetic manipulation since they produce hundreds of eggs per femaleand because of the independent development of fish embryos. Traditional methods in the past have employedfertilized egg injections with transgene constructions containing non-specific promoters and random genome integration.In fish, these methods have resulted in mosaicism and extrachromosomal expression. Inducible systems tocontrol the temporal and tissue specific expression and gene targeting methodologies to increase efficiency and controlof the locus of insertion of the transgene are, therefore, desirable. All these techniques incorporate stem cell manipulation,classification, selection and/or nuclear transplant of cell lines or stem cells. Some of these systemsinitially developed for mammalian cells are now available to be tested in fish. A large part of this field still remainsunexplored.
Salt tolerance in durum wheat cultivars
Authors: Royo A. , Abió D.
Published: June 2014

This work presents the response of 17 durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. var. durum) genotypes to a salinity gradientestablished with 7 saline treatments using a drip-injection irrigation system. According to the results, grain yieldwas the most sensitive parameter. Vitron was the most tolerant cultivar (ECe50 = 16.6 dS m-1) and Bolenga the mostsensitive (ECe50 = 7.5 dS m-1). The average value of ECe50 was 11.3 dS m-1, markedly lower than that usually mentionedin the literature. The spike length, the number of spikelets and of grains per spike, and the harvest index were themost tolerant characters. Salinity significantly increased the concentration of chloride and sodium in the leaves, althoughpotassium content did not vary with increasing salinity. No consistent relationship was found between ECe50and the leaf Cl, Na and K concentrations, which could not, therefore, be used in screening for salinity tolerance. Vitronwas the most interesting cultivar due to the tolerance of its yield, thousand kernel weight, grain size and plantheight.
Entomopathogenic fungi in soils from Alicante province [Spain]
Authors: Asensio L. , Carbonell T. , Lopez-Jimenez J.A. , López-Llorca L.V.
Published: June 2014

We have used Galleria mellonella (Linnaeus, 1758) larvae as a bait for detecting insect pathogens in soils from Alicante(SE Spain). Soil from 61 sites was collected including agricultural fields, forests and a mediterranean shrub(Nerium oleander L.) growing under natural or garden environments. The most frequently insect pathogens found werefungi (32.8% soils), being Beauveria bassiana (Bals.) Vuill (21% soils) the species most abundant. Metarhiziumanisopliae (Metschn.) Sorok (6.4%) and Lecanicillium lecanii (Zimm.) Gams [= Verticillium lecanii Zimm.] (4.8%)were less frequent. B. bassiana also scored the highest infection percentage in a single soil sample (ca. 90% of insectsinfected), and was also the most frequent (77.8%) entomopathogenic fungus detected in soils under N. oleander.
Histology of hazelnut (Corylus avellana L.) kernel affected by brown spots in kernel cavity physiopathy
Authors: Romero A. , Tous J. , Durfort M. , Rius M.
Published: June 2014

Cotyledon tissue changes have been studied during hazelnut cv. Negret kernel growth in order to define the developmentalsteps of a seed alteration called «brown spots in kernel cavity», an inner brown cavity that devalues the kernel.Seed histology has been studied by both light and scanning electron microscopy. The affected zone shows emptycells while increasing suberization can be observed in limiting cells between affected and healthy zones. The brownspots in kernel cavity cells loose their isodiametric shape until tissue is destroyed by lysis and the inner cavity is formed.
Alterations in the physical and physico-chemical properties of a substrate based on composted sawdust and perlite with polycyclic tomato crops
Authors: Favaro J.C. , Marano R.P.
Published: June 2014

Vegetable crops grown continuously in greenhouse are vulnerable to phytosanitary problems or changes in the physicaland chemical conditions of the soil such as salinization. One alternative to minimize these problems is to growcrops without soil using different substrates. A mixture of perlite and composted willow sawdust has been used successfullywith tomatoes (Lycopersicum esculentum Mill), but the behavior of this substrate when reused is unknown.Factorial trials with tomato pot crops cv. Topacio were developed, and in each experiment, water content at 10, 50 and100 cm, bulk density, pH, electrical conductivity and exchangeable cations were determined. From a physical perspective,reuse of the substrate did not substantially modify the total available water and aeration was higher than thatconsidered as ideal. Reuse caused a light acidification and increased the C/N ratio with a loss of exchangeable cationcapacity for Ca2+ and Na+. This modification of the substrate did not affect the yield.
Short communication. Influence of micronutrients on biological nitrogen fixation in bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) under greenhouse hydroponic culture conditions
Authors: Daza A. , Santamaría C. , Camacho M. , Rodríguez-Navarro D. N. , Temprano F.
Published: June 2014

Several microelements (Mo, Cu, Zn, Mn, B) had some degree of influence on nodule dry weight, plant dry weightand nitrogen content of Phaseolus vulgaris cv. Canellini inoculated with Rhizobium tropici CIAT899 under greenhousehydroponic culture conditions. Nodule number was not significantly affected. The absence of boron producedthe highest degree of inhibition. The absence of microelements affected uptake and assimilation of mineral nitrogento a lesser extent than biological nitrogen fixation. A similar effect of microelements was observed on Phaseolus vulgaris(cvs. Canellini and Mutin)/Rhizobium etli ISP23 symbiosis.
Quality of life in multiple sclerosis patients participating in therapeutic horseback riding
Authors: Flores Fabiana Moraes , Sousa Luana Santos , Menezes Karla Mendonça , Copetti Fernando , Trevisan Cláudia Morais
Published: June 2014

Introduction: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a disease that causes interferences in the quality of life (QoL) of affected individuals; for this reason, for this reason, programs of activities that can improve quality of life are crucial. Objective: Investigate whether therapeutic horseback riding (THR) included in the routine activities of people with MS promotes changes in perceived QoL. Methods: Fourteen individuals with MS were divided into intervention group and control group and assessed for perceived QoL by means of the Functional Assessment of Multiple Sclerosis (FAMS) instrument, before and after an interval of four months. Results: No significant changes in the QoL of MS subjects were observed, either in intragroup or intergroup assessments. Conclusion: The intervention with THR included in the routine therapeutic activities of individuals with MS was not helpful to promote changes in the perceived QoL of the individuals studied.
Influência do uso do Nintendo® Wii™ na destreza e na força de preensão manuais: estudo de caso na distrofia muscular de Becker
Authors: Carvalho Bruno Augusto de , Carrogi-Vianna Daniela , Blascovi-Assis Silvana Maria
Published: June 2014

Objetivo: Verificar a relação dos jogos virtuais do console Nintendo® Wii™ com a destreza e a força de preensão manuais em um adolescente com diagnóstico de distrofia muscular de Becker. Métodos: Utilizou-se o console Nintendo® Wii™ com jogos da linha Wii Sports Resort™. As mensurações foram realizadas antes do início da prática dos jogos e após as sessões, por meio do teste caixa e blocos para destreza manual e de um dinamômetro bulbar (Sammons Preston®) para força manual. Resultados: Após análise comparativa pré e pós-protocolo, verificou-se que o paciente obteve, no teste caixa e blocos, um aumento de 17,95% na destreza manual no membro superior direito, e de 7,4% no superior esquerdo. Referente à dinamometria houve aumento de força de preensão manual de 20% no membro direito, e de 25% no esquerdo. Conclusão: Observou-se progresso nas habilidades manuais de destreza e de força de preensão, avaliadas antes e após a intervenção, porém, sugerem-se novas pesquisas para comparação dos dados encontrados com os do atual estudo.
Efeito do laser GaAs em portadores de epicondilite lateral desencadeada por DORT
Authors: Justino Jeferson De Sousa , Andrade Matheus Dos Santos , Dantas Sterllany Vieira , Leal Seânia Santos
Published: June 2014

Objetivo: Verificar os efeitos da laserterapia de baixa intensidade (LBI) na dor e na funcionalidade do cotovelo. Método: A amostra, de caráter intencional, foi constituída de 12 pessoas distribuídas aleatoriamente em dois grupos, sendo: seis pessoas do grupo de intervenção (GI), que receberam a aplicação do LBI de 904 nm; e seis do grupo placebo (GP), que receberam a aplicação do LBI de 904 nm com o bico da caneta desligado. Realizaram-se sete aplicações do tipo varredura, com intervalo de 24 horas, utilizou-se a dosagem de 3 J/cm², com duração de 12 minutos e 30 segundos. Resultados: Houve redução da dor no GI (P=0,020) em comparação com a do GP (P=0,889), e a funcionalidade do cotovelo no GI aumentou (P=0,002), já no GP agravou-se (P=0,363). Conclusão: Infere-se, com base nos dados, que os efeitos da laserterapia de baixa intensidade são eficazes no tratamento da epicondilite lateral do cotovelo desencadeada por DORT.