bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Tangled Knot of Career and Credential
Authors: Ryder Andrew J. , Meighen Bethany D. , Russell Jaime L. , Hollenbaugh Crystal E. , Lothes II John E. , Kimball Ezekiel W.
Published: April 2016

In this chapter, we explore the potential of the Associate in Applied Science as both a terminal and a transfer degree. We first contextualize AAS degrees by examining their place in the development and missions of community colleges and their current purpose and prominence. We then review recent U.S. employment data and wage dividends for individuals with AAS degrees as well as those graduates with AAS plus baccalaureate degrees. Initially intended as a terminal credential leading directly to employment, a subset of students is likely to utilize the AAS degree for transfer and additional preparation leading to significant economic benefits and career mobility. We suggest that this phenomenon — presently understudied — is likely to increase in frequency as the United States becomes an increasingly credentialed society. Using North Carolina as an example, we document the state's workforce needs for AAS and AAS plus baccalaureate degrees and conclude by examining the implications for policy and practice created by the hidden transfer function of the AAS degree.
Text-to-Speech Software as Assistive and Mainstream Technology
Authors: Baker Fiona S.
Published: April 2016

This chapter presents the case for mainstreaming text-to-speech software for students with reading difficulties in the educational environment through a socio-constructivist approach. Socio-constructivism guides this chapter and communicates its purpose. The argument presented is that a purely functional approach that serves only students with reading disabilities such as dyslexia, confines the delivery of text-to-speech software to a select population, which results in limited outreach and use. Further, despite increased consumer involvement in assistive technology delivery with its potential to increase student participation, the target population is defined by professionals and based on human function rather than determined by a self-assessment of individual need, and may be further negatively impacted by human, contextual, and technological factors. By transitioning to a socio-constructivist approach, there is greater potential to assist a larger number of students who may otherwise not have the opportunity to explore text-to-speech software's potential and throughout their educational career may continue to experience difficulties in reading.
Impact of Network Dynamics on the Performance of Distributed Physical Cell Identities Assignment Schemes
Authors: Diab Ali , Mitschele-Thiel Andreas
Published: April 2016

Conflicts-free auto-configuration of Physical Cell Identities (PCIs) is a main challenge in LTE systems. This challenge is the focus of this chapter, which provides a survey of present PCI assignment as well as allocation schemes and evaluates by means of simulative studies the performance of four well-known distributed PCI assignment approaches. The simulation is achieved applying two types of scenarios, namely static and dynamic. Static scenario stands for an already deployed LTE network that is a subject to a configuration using a specific PCI assignment approach, while the dynamic scenario tries to mimic the situations LTE networks are expected to face in real-life scenarios. Our results show that network dynamics heavily affect the performance of PCI assignment approaches, and even may transit LTE networks to an unstable state. So, it is essential to consider network dynamics by concept in any PCI assignment scheme to be developed.
Publish or Perish
Authors: Decker Emy Nelson , Odom Rosaline Y.
Published: April 2016

This chapter describes a new and emerging type of research and writing support for junior faculty members. The Academic Writing Institute was born of a collaboration between academic librarians and tenured faculty at the campuses the library supports. Grant funded, the purpose of the academic writing institute was to: 1) provide junior faculty with an overview of the services offered by the library that can help to facilitate their research processes; 2) introduce methods for documenting research findings in the 21st century publishing environment; and 3) provide a forum, led by tenured faculty, to enhance participant knowledge about the publishing processes associated with their specific disciplines. This new paradigm allows for other academic librarians to explore new methods by which the campus library can support faculty members with the research and publishing components of their promotion and tenure requirements.
Study on an Interactive Truck Crane Simulation Platform Based on Virtual Reality Technology
Authors: Sang Yong , Zhu Yu , Zhao Honghua , Tang Mingyan
Published: April 2016

The modern web-based distance education overcomes space-time restriction of the traditional teaching forms. However, being short of specifically observable and operable experimental equipment makes the web-based education lack advantages in the knowledge learning progress, which needs strong stereoscopic effect and operability. Truck crane is the most widely used crane installed on ordinary or tailor-made chassis with strong operability. This paper introduces a kind of interactive truck crane simulation platform based on the virtual reality technology, on which can complete the simulation experiment of the crane's movement. The framework and working principle of the interactive truck crane simulation platform are discussed in the paper, while landing leg and hook are used as an example to show the motion control mechanism of truck crane components. The interactive truck crane simulation platform uses the browser-based structure, Java3D, virtual reality and Java Applet, etc. to develop a Web3D virtual reality learning environment, which has the advantages of good interaction, strong sense of reality, simple update, less investment and so on. This learning environment can meet the needs that many students study online at the same time, so it has important application in the distance education of mechanical profession and remote training of vocational skills.
The prevalence of hearing impairment within the Cape Town Metropolitan area
Authors: Ramma Lebogang , Sebothoma Ben
Published: April 2016

Background: There is a lack of data on the prevalence of hearing impairment in South Africa. Current data is unreliable as it is based on national census information which tends to underestimate the prevalence of hearing impairment.Aim: The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of hearing impairment in the Cape Town Metropolitan area and to determine factors associated with hearing impairment. Method: A cross-sectional household survey involving 2494 partcipants from 718 households was conducted between the months of February and October 2013. Random cluster sampling was used to select four health sub-districts from eight health sub-districts in the Cape Town Metropolitan area using a method of probability proportional to size (PPS). The survey was conducted according to the World Health Organization (WHO) Ear and Hearing Disorders Survey Protocol and the classifcation of hearing impairment matched the WHO’s criteria for the grading of hearing impairment. Results: The overall prevalence of hearing impairment in the population of this study was 12.35% (95%CI: 11.06% – 13.64%) and prevalence of disabling hearing impairment was 4.57% (95% CI: 3.75% – 5.39%) amongst individuals ≥ 4 years old. The following factors were found to be associated with hearing impairment; male gender, age, hypertension, a history of head and neck trauma and a family history of hearing impairment.Conclusion: Based on the data from communities surveyed during this study, hearing impairment is more prevalent than previously estimated based on national population census information. Interventions for the prevention of hearing impairment in these communities should focus on individuals with associated risk factors.
Prostate-specific antigen as a risk factor for skeletal metastasis in native ethnic African Men with prostate cancer: A case-control study
Authors: Qureshi Ayman , Makhdomi Khalid , Stones William
Published: April 2016

Prostate cancer is the most common noncutaneous cancer in males. Men of African origin are at a significantly higher risk as reflected in the higher incidence and mortality rates in this racial group. Metastases incidence increases parallel to serum levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA), contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality. Staging of the disease involves bone scans, which are sensitive in detecting skeletal metastases. Suggestions that these scans may be omitted in some situations in patients with low prostate specific antigen levels have drawn attention to the matter. In this case-control study, using radiology and pathology records, a registry of prostate cancer patients recorded as being of dark-skinned ethnicity was obtained. Images were presented to image reviewers blinded to the PSA level, to determine the presence of skeletal metastases. The risk factor for the outcome of interest (skeletal metastases) was PSA level above 20 ng/mL. The reliability of image reporting was also assessed. Of the 122 patients, skeletal metastases were present in 50 (41%) while these were absent in 72 (59%). The prevalence of metastases among the high PSA group was 55.9% [95% confidence interval (CI) 44.1–67.7%] and among the normal/low PSA group was 22.2% (95% CI 11.1–33.3%). The odds ratio (OR) for skeletal metastases in the exposed (high PSA) group was 4.4 (95% CI, 2.01–9.78.) Intraobserver agreement on image interpretation was 88.5% with a Kappa statistic of 0.76. A relatively higher prevalence of skeletal metastasis is seen in regional dark-skinned African males with prostate cancer at both low and high prostate specific antigen levels. Bone scanning in this population should therefore, be considered even at PSA levels below 20 ng/mL.
99mTc-Tetrofosmin uptake correlates with the sensitivity of glioblastoma cell lines to temozolomide
Authors: Alexiou George , Xourgia Xanthi , Gerogianni Paraskevi , Vartholomatos Evrysthenis , Kalef-Ezra John , Fotopoulos Andreas , Kyritsis Athanasios
Published: April 2016

99mTc-tetrofosmin (99mTc-TF) is a single-photon emission computed tomography tracer that has been used for brain tumor imaging. The aim of the study was to assess if 99mTc-TF uptake by glioblastoma cells correlates with their response to temozolomide (TMZ). We investigated the correlation of TMZ antitumor effect with the 99mTc-TF uptake in two glioblastoma cell lines. The U251MG cell line is sensitive to TMZ, whereas T98G is resistant. Viability and proliferation of the cells were examined by trypan blue exclusion assay and xCELLigence system. Cell cycle was analyzed with flow cytometry. The radioactivity in the cellular lysate was measured with a gamma scintillation counter. TMZ induced G2/M cell cycle arrest in U251MG cells, whereas there was no effect on cell cycle in T98G cells. Lower 99mTc-TF uptake was observed in U251MG cells that were exposed to TMZ compared to control (P = 0.0159). No significant difference in respect to 99mTc-TF uptake was found in T98G cells when exposed to TMZ compared to control (P = 0.8). With 99mTc-TF, it was possible to distinguish between TMZ-sensitive and resistant glioblastoma cells within 6 h of treatment initiation. Thus, 99mTc-TF uptake may consist a novel approach to assess an early response of glioblastoma to chemotherapy and deserves further investigation.
Falcine myxoid chondrosarcoma: A rare aggressive case
Authors: Akakin Akin , Urgun Kamran , Ekşi Murat , Yılmaz Baran , Yapıcıer Özlem , Mestanoğlu Mert , Toktaş Zafer , Demir Mustafa , Kılı Türker
Published: April 2016

Chondrosarcoma is the second most common primary malignancy of bone after osteosarcoma. Cranial primary chondrosarcomas mostly originate from the skull base cartilage formation zones. Parasagittal falcine origin is very rare for primary extra-skeletal intracranial chondrosarcomas. We report a rare case of primary myxoid chondrosarcoma at falx cerebri. The patient was a 35-year-old lady with right arm and leg weakness. Her brain magnetic resonance imaging depicted a left parasagittal mass lesion attached to the falx cerebri. En bloc resection via left frontal craniotomy was performed. Three more local recurrences occurred in 9 months' time since the index surgery, which were all managed with re-surgeries and/or adjuvant stereotactic radiosurgeries. This is the second case of myxoid type parasagittal chondrosarcoma but with the most protracted disease course. Even though surgery remains the mainstay of treatment for parasagittal chondrosarcomas, adjuvant therapy might be necessary in aggressive ones.
Giant cell glioblastoma in a child with clinical and family history of neurofibromatosis
Authors: Pant Ishita , Nazir Wajid , Ujjawal Vinita , Chaturvedi Sujata
Published: April 2016

We report a case of giant cell glioblastoma (GCG) in a 13-year-old child with clinical features and family history of neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). To the best of our knowledge, only two cases of GCG have been reported in a scenario of NF1, and only one of that was in a pediatric age group. A report on our case is presented here along with a review of literature.
Nontraumatic subdural hematoma and intracystic hemorrhage associated with a middle fossa arachnoid cyst
Authors: Kaszuba Megan , Tan Lee , Moftakhar Roham , Kasliwal Manish
Published: April 2016

Intracranial arachnoid cysts (ACs) are relatively common findings that can be seen in up to 2% of patients. They are generally found incidentally with a benign clinical course and can be usually managed by observation. We report an unusual case of a middle fossa AC presenting with spontaneous intracystic hemorrhage along with subdural hematoma (SDH) causing significant mass effect and midline shift requiring surgical treatment. Even though the risk of hemorrhage in patients with AC is very low, the presence of AC is a known risk factor for SDH. Fortunately, the clinical outcome of patients who present with hemorrhage associated with AC is generally favorable with early recognition and prompt surgical treatment. Our case highlights the fact that both intracystic hemorrhage and SDH can occur in association with AC even in the absence of trauma and should be kept in mind when counseling patients with incidental AC about the natural history of these lesions.
Management of obstructive hydrocephalus in pregnant patient
Authors: Eksi Murat , Ögrenci Ahmet , Batçık Osman , Koban Orkun
Published: April 2016

De novo obstructive hydrocephalus is a rare event during pregnancy. There are only case reports presented in literature. We aimed to discuss the pathophysiological basis and management options with an exemplary case presentation and review of the current literature. A 28-year-old G2P1 patient presented to our clinic with headache, vomiting, and deteriorated vision at the 8th week of gestation. She had no history of central nervous system infection or trauma. A brain magnetic resonance imaging was obtained. There was hydrocephalus due to cerebral aqueduct stenosis (Evan's index of 58%). She was managed conservatively with bed rest and diuretics; however, she got no relief. A ventriculoperitoneal shunt was inserted at the 13th week of gestation. At the 38th week, she had cesarean section (C/S) due to previous history of C/S in the first pregnancy and present cord entanglement of the fetus. C/S was conducted under epidural anesthesia after conforming she had no increased intra cranial pressure findings. Delivery was uneventful with a healthy newborn. Obstructive hydrocephalus is a very rare complication during pregnancy. Hydrocephalus becomes obvious and necessitates treatment, before the third trimester of pregnancy. Timely diagnosis, especially differentiation from preeclampsia, is a life-saving step. If no complication happens during intervention for hydrocephalus, spontaneous vaginal delivery is a safe way of delivery for both mother's and newborn's well-being. C/S should be saved for obstetrical indications and can be conducted under epidural anesthesia if intracranial pressure is kept under control. Interdisciplinary approach of neurosurgeons and anesthesiologists is pivotal for delicate care of the patient and the baby.
Widespread intra-abdominal carcinomatosis from a rhabdoid meningioma after placement of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Jun Jie N , Teo Kok , Shabbir Asim , Yeo Tseng
Published: April 2016

Intra-abdominal metastasis (IAM) of central nervous system (CNS) tumors via ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) is rare but has been previously reported (e.g., germinomas and medulloblastomas). However, there has been no previous report in the literature involving meningiomas. A case of primary rhabdoid meningioma with widespread intra-abdominal carcinomatosis after placement of a VPS in a 36-year-old man is described. The patient underwent preoperative angioembolization of the tumor, craniotomy, and surgical excision, followed by postoperative gamma knife radiosurgery. Five months later, he underwent a decompressive craniectomy and surgical excision for tumor recurrence causing raised intracranial pressure and communicating hydrocephalus, necessitating placement of a VPS. One month after placement of the VPS, the patient developed abdominal distension and confusion. He was treated for a VPS infection, and the shunt was explanted. He continued to deteriorate with high output from the peritoneal drain placed at the time of shunt explantation. An exploratory laparotomy revealed multiple diffuse peritoneal and omental nodules which had the same histopathological and immunohistochemical morphology as the primary tumor. We reviewed the current literature on IAM of primary CNS tumors via VPS, which revealed that patients belonging in the pediatric age group, of the male gender, and with a primary intracranial germinoma or medulloblastoma have a higher incidence of IAM. Majority of IAM occurred within 2 years of VPS placement, and patients most commonly present with abdominal distension and ascites. Treatment after diagnosis is varied and the prognosis is poor, with more than half of the patients dying within a year. It is vital for clinicians to maintain a high index of suspicion for similar patients, as early intervention could potentially improve patient outcomes and patient expectations managed more effectively.
Primary giant sphenotemporal intradiploic meningioma
Authors: Mankotia Dipanker , Singh Saraj , Borkar Sachin , Sharma Bhawani , Rajeshwari Madhu , Sharma Mehar
Published: April 2016

Intradiploic meningioma is a rare subset of meningioma accounting for 1% of all cases. Authors report a rare case of giant sphenotemporal intradiploic meningioma with orbital extension in a 27-year-old female. It was managed successfully with complete surgical excision and bony reconstruction using autologous split thickness bone graft.
A rare case of concurrent herpes simplex encephalitis and glioblastoma multiforme
Authors: Sayal Parag , Zafar Arif , Highley Robin
Published: April 2016

Herpes encephalitis superimposed on an intracranial malignancy has previously been described mainly in the context of malignancy imitating infection or in the postoperative setting after neurosurgical intervention. We report a rare case of de novo presentation of concurrent herpes encephalitis and glioblastoma. A 63-year-old man presented with status epilepticus and subsequent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain showed a right temporal enhancing lesion with mass effect. He underwent a craniotomy and debulking of this lesion, which on subsequent histology was positive for herpes simplex virus (HSV) antigens and HSV DNA was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction analysis. The sample however also had some hypercellular areas with atypical astrocytes. Our patient recovered well from surgery and was eventually commenced on acyclovir albeit with a delay of 3 weeks due to the initial diagnostic dilemma. However, he re-presented with lethargy and confusion a further 3 weeks later and an MRI scan showed recurrence of the temporal lesion with MR spectroscopy more suggestive of high-grade glioma. He, therefore, underwent a further debulking surgery and the histology revealed a WHO Grade 4 glioblastoma with some residual areas of inflammation. A diagnosis of 2 co-existing pathologies namely HSV encephalitis and glioblastoma was thus reached. Unfortunately, due to poor performance status, he could not undergo chemo-radiotherapy and died 8 months after presentation. Immuno-modulators, expressed locally and globally in glioma patients, are likely to render them susceptible to infections. There are an increasing number of reports of HSV encephalitis in the glioma setting postoperatively. However, we report a de novo presentation which has only been recognized once before in the 1970s. Recognition of HSV encephalitis in glioma patients in the de novo and also the postoperative context is important for commencing early treatment and preventing poor outcomes.
Axillary nerve schwannoma: A rare case report
Authors: Kumar Prem , Islary Biju , Ramachandra Ramya , Naik Thippeswamy
Published: April 2016

Primary tumors of the brachial plexus are a rare cause of an axillary swelling. Schwannomas are benign tumors arising from Schwann cells. Most of the schwannomas occur in the head and neck region and in the flexor aspect of the limbs. We present a case of a 60-year-old female who presented with pain in the left axilla radiating to the left upper limb since 2 years and a painful swelling in her left axilla for 3 months. The diagnosis is made by fine needle aspiration cytology and magnetic resonance imaging, and confirmed by histopathological examination as schwannoma.
Co-maximal Graphs of Subgroups of Groups
Authors: Akbari Saieed , Miraftab Babak , Nikandish Reza
Published: April 2016

Let H be a group. The co-maximal graph of subgroups of H, denoted by Γ(H), is a graph whose vertices are non-trivial and proper subgroups of H and two distinct vertices L and K are adjacent in Γ(H) if and only ifH = LK. In this paper, we study the connectivity, diameter, clique number, and vertex chromatic number of Γ(H). For instance, we show that if Γ(H) has no isolated vertex, then Γ(H) is connectedwith diameter at most h. Also, we characterize all ûnite groupswhose co-maximal graphs are connected. Among other results, we show that if H is a ûnitely generated solvable group and Γ(H) is connected, and moreover, the degree of a maximal subgroup is finite, then (H) is finite. Furthermore, we show that the degree of each vertex in the co-maximal graph of a general linear group over an algebraically closed ûeld is zero or infinite.
Integrating central extensions of Lie algebras via Lie 2-groups
Authors: Wockel Christoph , Zhu Chenchang
Published: April 2016

The purpose of this paper is to show how central extensions of (possibly infinite-dimensional) Lie algebras integrate to central extensions of étale Lie 2-groups in the sense of [Get09, Hen08]. In finite dimensions, central extensions of Lie algebras integrate to central extensions of Lie groups, a fact which is due to the vanishing of

\pi_2

for each finite-dimensional Lie group. This fact was used by Cartan (in a slightly other guise) to construct the simply connected Lie group associated to each finite-dimensional Lie algebra.

In infinite dimensions, there is an obstruction for a central extension of Lie algebras to integrate to a central extension of Lie groups. This obstruction comes from non-trivial

\pi_2

2 for general Lie groups. We show that this obstruction may be overcome by integrating central extensions of Lie algebras not to Lie groups but to central extensions of étale Lie 2-groups. As an application, we obtain a generalization of Lie’s Third Theorem to infinite-dimensional Lie algebras.
Twists and resonance of $L$-functions, I
Authors: Kaczorowski Jerzy , Perelli Alberto
Published: April 2016

We obtain the basic analytic properties, i.e. meromorphic continuation, polar structure and bounds for the order of growth, of all the nonlinear twists with exponents

≤ 1 / d

of the

L

-functions of any degree

d ≥ 1

in the extended Selberg class. In particular, this solves the resonance problem in all such cases.
Four Cases of Cervical Sympathetic Chain Schwannoma and Review of Literature
Authors: Ramachandran K , Divya GM , Nampoothiri P Muraleedharan , Kumar KP Sunil
Published: April 2016

Schwannomas are benign, solitary and well-differentiated tumors originating from schwann cells. They may originate from any of the peripheral, cranial or autonomic nerves of the body with the exception of the olfactory and the optic nerves. This tumor most often presents as a slow growing asymptomatic solitary neck mass which rarely undergoes malignant transformation. Schwannomas arising from the cervicalsympathetic chain are very rare. Only < 65 cases have been reported in the literature to date. Computed tomography with contrast medium or magnetic resonance imaging is essential to the initial workup for cervical sympathetic chain schwannoma (CSCS). Surgical excision is the treatment of choice for this tumor. Only surgical observation of the lesion and the nerve from where it originates, and histologic examination of the specimen, can lead to a correct diagnosis. We report four cases of cervical sympathetic chain schwannomas presented in our department during last two and half years which were treated by surgical excision.

How to cite this article

Divya GM, Ramachandran K, Nampoothiri PM, Sunil Kumar KP. Four Cases of Cervical Sympathetic Chain Schwannoma and Review of Literature. Int J Head Neck Surg 2015;6(2):86-89.
A Case Study on Vacuolated Oocytes Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection and its Outcome
Authors: Deene Vishnukanth , Mudaraddi Tulasigiriyappa Yashvant , Gaur Shivani S
Published: April 2016

This is a case study showing effects of oocyte morphological abnormalities in the form of homogenous vacuoles on intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) outcomes and its implications. Characteristic vacuoles of different size were identified in all oocytes obtained after egg collection in this patient. Eighteen oocytes were retrieved, 15 were metaphase-II and three were metaphase-I. All the oocytes were injected with sperm; out of 18 oocytes, 12 oocytes had embryo quality of grade A and three were grade B. Fifteen embryos exhibited maturation on 24 to 36 hours of incubation and showed two to four-celled stages, and after 48 to 60 hours of incubation, the embryos showed six to eight-celled stage. Grade A quality of three embryos was transferred nearly in an ongoing singleton pregnancy was confirmed

How to cite this article

Deene V, Mudaraddi TY, Gaur SS. A Case Study on Vacuolated Oocytes Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection and its Outcome. Int J Infertil Fetal Med 2016;7(1): 23-26.
Is it Time to Shift to Total Thyroidectomy for Benign Thyroid Disease: An Analysis of 77 Redo Thyroidectomies
Authors: Prasad G Raghavendra
Published: April 2016

Aims and objectives

To analyze redo thyroidectomies so as to get a possible answer to the controversy surrounding thyroidectomy for benign disease.

Materials and methods

This is a retrospective observational cohort. From 1996 to 2010, a total 77 cases of redo thyroidectomies were performed. The data of all patients in the department were maintained on a self developed MS access-based software. The data of redo thyroidectomies were reviewed. These patients were from five districts of Andhra Pradesh, 42 were women and 35 men, 51 underwent subtotal thyroidectomy, 21 had hemithyroidectomy and 5 patients had excision procedure; all were benign. The condition varied from multinodular goiter (MNG) and solitary nodule to follicular neoplasm. There were 44 right-sided, and 43 left-sided surgeries. Recurrence occurred in seven in less than 1 year, in 49 in less than 5 years, in 11 of them in less than 10 years and 10 had recurrence after 10 years. A total thyroidectomy was performed in all. Seventy-five had benign disease. Two had suspected neoplasm; one papillary and one Hurthle cell. One patient had transient recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy.

Results

Seventy-seven redo surgeries for benign thyroid disease were performed. The high rate of referrals for recurrence probably suggests inadequacy of subtotal and hemithyroidectomies for benign thyroid diseases.

Conclusion

The present series of 77 redo thyroidectomies clearly suggests inadequacy of initial subtotal thyroidectomy. Evidence-based analysis of complication rates and surgical feasibility supports total thyroidectomy as the complete safe, scientifically acceptable choice of primary surgical treatment for benign thyroid disease.

How to cite this article

Prasad RG. Is it Time to Shift to Total Thyroidectomy for Benign Thyroid Disease: An Analysis of 77 Redo Thyroidectomies. Int J Phonosurg Laryngol 2015;5(1):4-6.
Innovations in Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing and Laryngeal Sensation Testing
Authors: Mehta Shamik Paresh
Published: April 2016

The larynx plays a crucial part in swallowing to prevent aspiration. The present available clinical tools to assess this function of larynx are ‘flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallowing’ (FEES) and ‘laryngeal sensory tests’. The author has made certain changes to make these tests equally effective and economical.

How to cite this article

Mehta SP. Innovations in Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing and Laryngeal Sensation Testing. Int J Phonosurg Laryngol 2015;5(1):17-19
Suspecting Airway Foreign Body in Agenesis of the Lung: A Rare Incidence of Misdiagnosis
Authors: Sahu Mahesh Chandra , Mohanty Sidarth , Choudhury Jashashree
Published: April 2016

Agenesis of the lung is an extremely rare condition. Suspecting foreign body in agenesis of the lung is a diagnostic dilemma. We report the case of an 11 months old boy who presented with cough and cold; examination showed decreased air entry on the right side and investigations reported collapse on chest X-ray and plain computed tomography (CT) scan of thorax. Pediatrician suspected airway foreign body. Rigid bronchoscopy was done to confirm the diagnosis, but there was blind end in the right bronchus with no foreign body seen. Contrast-enhanced CT scan (CECT) of the neck and chest confirmed the aplasia of right lung. Agenesis of the lung should be kept in the mind by the clinician when dealing with foreign body in airway. This can prevent unnecessary intervention like rigid bronchoscopy.

How to cite this article

Swain SK, Mohanty S, Singh N, Choudhury J, Sahu MC. Suspecting Airway Foreign Body in Agenesis of the Lung: A Rare Incidence of Misdiagnosis. Int J Phonosurg Laryngol 2015;5(1):32-34.
Endolaryngeal Excision of Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve Neurofibroma
Authors: Karnik Prabodh , Chhapola Sunita , Matta Inita
Published: April 2016

Vagal schwannomas, compromising 1% of head and neck neoplasms, are the commonest neurogenic tumors of the neck. Recurrent laryngeal nerve neurofibromas are even rarer. We report such a case, excised totally by an endolaryngeal approach. New trends in diagnosis and immunohistochemistry are discussed.

How to cite this article

Matta I, Shukla SC, Karnik P. Endolaryngeal Excision of Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve Neurofibroma. Int J Phonosurg Laryngol 2015;5(1):35-38.
Pinch, Burn, Cut Parathyroid-sparing Thyroidectomy Saves Recurrent and Superior Laryngeal Nerves (Conventional, PBC and Harmonic Scalpel Techniques Compared)
Authors: Prasad G Raghavendra , Rao JV Subba , Hameed Mohammed Abdul Rahman
Published: April 2016

Introduction

Recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) and superior laryngeal nerve (SLN) have been and continue to be the Achilles tendon of thyroidectomy. Many anatomical landmarks described and taught.

How to cite this article

Prasad RG, Rao JVS, Hameed MAR. Pinch, Burn, Cut Parathyroid-sparing Thyroidectomy Saves Recurrent and Superior Laryngeal Nerves (Conventional, PBC and Harmonic Scalpel Techniques Compared). Int J Phonosurg Laryngol 2015;5(2):48-52.
An overview of the first decade of PollyNET: an emerging network of automated Raman-polarization lidars for continuous aerosol profiling
Authors: Baars Holger , Kanitz Thomas , Engelmann Ronny , Althausen Dietrich , Heese Birgit , Komppula Mika , Preißler Jana , Tesche Matthias , Ansmann Albert , Wandinger Ulla , Lim Jae-Hyun , Ahn Joon Young , Stachlewska Iwona S. , Amiridis Vassilis , Marinou Eleni , Seifert Patric , Hofer Julian , Skupin Annett , Schneider Florian , Bohlmann Stephanie , Foth Andreas , Bley Sebastian , Pfüller Anne , Giannakaki Eleni , Lihavainen Heikki , Viisanen Yrjö , Hooda Rakesh Kumar , Pereira Sérgio Nepomuceno , Bortoli Daniele , Wagner Frank , Mattis Ina , Janicka Lucja , Markowicz Krzysztof M. , Achtert Peggy , Artaxo Paulo , Pauliquevis Theotonio , Souza Rodrigo A. F. , Sharma Ved Prakesh , van Zyl Pieter Gideon , Beukes Johan Paul , Sun Junying , Rohwer Erich G. , Deng Ruru , Mamouri Rodanthi-Elisavet , Zamorano Felix
Published: April 2016

Abstract. A global vertically resolved aerosol data set covering more than 10 years of observations at more than 20 measurement sites distributed from 63° N to 52° S and 72° W to 124° E has been achieved within the Raman and polarization lidar network PollyNET. This network consists of portable, remote-controlled multiwavelength-polarization-Raman lidars (Polly) for automated and continuous 24/7 observations of clouds and aerosols. PollyNET is an independent, voluntary, and scientific network. All Polly lidars feature a standardized instrument design with different capabilities ranging from single wavelength to multiwavelength systems, and now apply unified calibration, quality control, and data analysis. The observations are processed in near-real time without manual intervention, and are presented online at http://polly.tropos.de/. The paper gives an overview of the observations on four continents and two research vessels obtained with eight Polly systems. The specific aerosol types at these locations (mineral dust, smoke, dust-smoke and other dusty mixtures, urban haze, and volcanic ash) are identified by their Ångström exponent, lidar ratio, and depolarization ratio. The vertical aerosol distribution at the PollyNET locations is discussed on the basis of more than 55 000 automatically retrieved 30 min particle backscatter coefficient profiles at 532 nm as this operating wavelength is available for all Polly lidar systems. A seasonal analysis of measurements at selected sites revealed typical and extraordinary aerosol conditions as well as seasonal differences. These studies show the potential of PollyNET to support the establishment of a global aerosol climatology that covers the entire troposphere.
Emissions of Carbon Tetrachloride (CCl4) from Europe
Authors: Graziosi Francesco , Arduini Jgor , Bonasoni Paolo , Furlani Francesco , Giostra Umberto , Manning Alistair J. , McCulloch Archie , O'Doherty Simon , Simmonds Peter G. , Reimann Stefan , Vollmer Martin K. , Maione Michela
Published: April 2016

Abstract. Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) is a long-lived radiatively-active compound able to destroy stratospheric ozone. Due to its inclusion in the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, the last two decades have seen a sharp decrease in its large scale emissive use with a consequent decline of its atmospheric mole fractions. However, the Montreal Protocol restrictions do not apply to the use of carbon tetrachloride as feedstock for the production of other chemicals, implying the risk of fugitive emissions from the industry sector. The occurrence of such unintended emissions is suggested by a significant discrepancy between global emissions as derived by reported production and feedstock usage (bottom-up emissions), and those based on atmospheric observations (top-down emissions). In order to better constrain the atmospheric budget of carbon tetrachloride, several studies based on a combination of atmospheric observations and inverse modelling have been conducted in recent years in various regions of the world. This study is focused on the European scale and based on long-term high-frequency observations at three European sites, combined with a Bayesian inversion methodology. We estimated that average European emissions for 2006–2014 were 2.3 (± 0.8) Gg yr−1, with an average decreasing trend of 7.3 % per year. Our analysis identified France as the main source of emissions over the whole study period, with an average contribution to total European emissions of 25 %. The inversion was also able to allow the localisation of emission "hot-spots" in the domain, with major source areas in Southern France, Central England (UK) and Benelux (Belgium, The Netherlands, Luxembourg), where most of industrial scale production of basic organic chemicals are located. According to our results, European emissions correspond to 4.0 % of global emissions for 2006–2012. Together with other regional studies, our results allow a better constraint of the global budget of carbon tetrachloride and a better quantification of the gap between top-down and bottom-up estimates.
Proposed standardized definitions for vertical resolution and uncertainty in the NDACC lidar ozone and temperature algorithms – Part 1: Vertical resolution
Authors: Leblanc Thierry , Sica Robert J. , van Gijsel J. Anne E. , Godin-Beekman Sophie , Haefele Alexander , Trickl Thomas , Payen Guillaume , Gabarrot Frank
Published: April 2016

Abstract. A standardized approach for the definition and reporting of vertical resolution of the ozone and temperature lidar profiles contributing to the Network for the Detection for Atmospheric Composition Change (NDACC) database is proposed. Two standardized definitions describing homogeneously and unequivocally the impact of vertical filtering are recommended. The first proposed definition is based on the width of the response to a Finite Impulse-type perturbation. The response is computed by convolving the filter coefficients with an impulse function, namely, a Kronecker Delta function for smoothing filters, and a Heaviside Step function for derivative filters. Once the response has been computed, the proposed standardized definition of vertical resolution is given by Δz = δz * HFWHM, where δz is the lidar’s sampling resolution and HFWHM is the full-width at half-maximum (FWHM) of the response, measured in sampling intervals. The second proposed definition relates to digital filtering theory. After applying a Laplace Transform to a set of filter coefficients, the filter’s gain characterizing the effect of the filter on the signal in the frequency-domain is computed, from which the cut-off frequency fC, defined as the frequency at which the gain equals 0.5, is computed. Vertical resolution is then defined by Δz = δz ⁄ (2fC). Unlike common practice in the field of spectral analysis, a factor 2fC instead of fC is constrained here to yield vertical resolution values nearly equal to the values obtained with the impulse response definition using the same filter coefficients. When using either of the proposed definitions, unsmoothed signals yield the best possible vertical resolution Δz = δz (one sampling bin). Numerical tools were developed to support the implementation of these definitions across all NDACC lidar groups. The tools consist of ready-to-use “plug-in” routines written in several programming languages that can be inserted into any lidar data processing software and called each time a filtering operation occurs in the data processing chain.
Proposed standardized definitions for vertical resolution and uncertainty in the NDACC lidar ozone and temperature algorithms – Part 2: Ozone DIAL uncertainty budget
Authors: Leblanc Thierry , Sica Robert , van Gijsel J. Anne E. , Godin-Beekmann Sophie , Haefele Alexander , Trickl Thomas , Payen Guillaume , Liberti Gianluigi
Published: April 2016

Abstract. A standardized approach for the definition, propagation and reporting of uncertainty in the ozone differential absorption lidar data products contributing to the Network for the Detection for Atmospheric Composition Change (NDACC) database is proposed. One essential aspect of the proposed approach is the propagation in parallel of all independent uncertainty components through the data processing chain before they are combined together to form the ozone combined standard uncertainty. The independent uncertainty components contributing to the overall budget include random noise associated with signal detection, uncertainty due to saturation correction, background noise extraction, the absorption cross-sections of ozone, NO2, SO2, and O2, the molecular extinction cross-sections, and the number densities of the air, NO2, and SO2. The expression of the individual uncertainty components and their step-by-step propagation through the ozone DIAL processing chain are thoroughly estimated. All sources of uncertainty except detection noise imply correlated terms in the vertical dimension, which requires knowledge of the covariance matrix when the lidar signal is vertically filtered. In addition, the covariance terms must be taken into account if the same detection hardware is shared by the lidar receiver channels at the absorbed and non-absorbed wavelengths. The ozone uncertainty budget is presented as much as possible in generic form (i.e., as a function of instrument performance and wavelength) so that all NDACC ozone DIAL investigators across the network can estimate, for their own instrument and in a straightforward manner, the expected impact of each reviewed uncertainty component. In addition, two actual examples of full uncertainty budget are provided, using measurements from the tropospheric ozone DIAL located at the JPL-Table Mountain Facility, California, and measurements from the JPL stratospheric ozone DIAL located at Mauna Loa Observatory, Hawaii.
The Zugspitze radiative closure experiment for quantifying water vapor absorption over the terrestrial and solar infrared. Part II: Accurate calibration of high spectral resolution infrared measurements of surface solar radiation
Authors: Reichert Andreas , Rettinger Markus , Sussmann Ralf
Published: April 2016

Abstract. Quantitative knowledge of water vapor absorption is crucial for accurate climate simulations. An open science question in this context concerns the strength of the water vapor continuum in the near infrared (NIR) at atmospheric temperatures, which is still to be quantified by measurements. This issue can be addressed with radiative closure experiments using solar absorption spectra. However, the spectra used for water vapor continuum quantification have to be radiometrically calibrated. We present for the first time a method that yields sufficient calibration accuracy for NIR water vapor continuum quantification in an atmospheric closure experiment. Our method combines the Langley method with spectral radiance measurements of a high-temperature blackbody calibration source (< 2000 K). The calibration scheme is demonstrated in the spectral range 2500 to 7800 cm−1, but minor modifications to the method enable calibration also throughout the remainder of the NIR spectral range. The resulting uncertainty (2 σ) is below 1 % in window regions and up to 1.7 % within absorption bands. A validation of this calibration uncertainty estimate is performed by investigation of calibration self-consistency, which yields compatible results within the estimated errors for 91.1 % of the 2500 to 7800 cm−1-range. A second validation effort consists in a comparison of a set of calibrated spectra to radiative transfer model calculations, which are consistent within the estimated errors for 97.7 % of the spectral range.
The automated multiwavelength Raman polarization and water-vapor lidar PollyXT: the neXT generation
Authors: Engelmann Ronny , Kanitz Thomas , Baars Holger , Heese Birgit , Althausen Dietrich , Skupin Annett , Wandinger Ulla , Komppula Mika , Stachlewska Iwona S. , Amiridis Vassilis , Marinou Eleni , Mattis Ina , Linné Holger , Ansmann Albert
Published: April 2016

Abstract. The atmospheric science community demands autonomous and quality-assured vertically resolved measurements of aerosol and cloud properties. For this purpose, a portable lidar called Polly was developed at TROPOS in 2003. The lidar system was continuously improved with gained experience from the EARLINET community, involvement in worldwide field campaigns, and international institute collaborations within the last 10 years. Here we present recent changes of the setup of the portable multiwavelength Raman and polarization lidar PollyXT and discuss the improved capabilities of the system by means of a case study. The latest system developments include an additional near-range receiver unit for Raman measurements of the backscatter and extinction coefficient down to 120 m above ground, a water-vapor channel, and channels for simultaneous measurements of the particle linear depolarization ratio at 355 and 532 nm. Quality improvements were achieved by systematically following the EARLINET guidelines and the international PollyNET quality assurance developments. A modified ship radar ensures measurements in agreement with air-traffic safety regulations and allows for 24∕7 monitoring of the atmospheric state with PollyXT.
Response of the AMOC to reduced solar radiation – the modulating role of atmospheric-chemistry
Authors: Muthers Stefan , Raible Christoph C. , Stocker Thomas F.
Published: April 2016

Abstract. The influence of reduced solar forcing (grand solar minimum or geoengineering scenarios like solar radiation management) on the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (AMOC) is assessed in an ensemble of atmosphere-ocean-chemistry-climate model simulations. Ensemble sensitivity simulations are performed with and without interactive chemistry. Without chemistry-climate interaction the AMOC is intensified in the course of the solar radiation reduction (SRR), which is attributed to the thermal effect of the solar forcing: reduced sea surface temperatures and enhanced sea ice formation increase the density of the upper ocean in the North Atlantic and intensify the deepwater formation. In simulations with chemistry-climate interactions a second, dynamical effect on the AMOC is identified which counteracts the thermal effect. This dynamical mechanism is driven by the stratospheric cooling in response to the reduced solar forcing, which is strongest in the tropics and leads to a weakening of the Northern polar vortex. In simulations with interactive chemistry, these stratospheric changes are strongly amplified by the reduction of stratospheric ozone. By stratosphere-troposphere interactions, the stratospheric circulation anomalies induce a negative phase of the Arctic Oscillation in the troposphere, which is found to weaken the AMOC through wind stress and heat flux anomalies in the North Atlantic. Neglecting chemistry-climate interactions in model simulations may therefore lead to an overestimation of the AMOC response to solar forcing.