bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The MINDVIEW project: First results
Authors: Benlloch José M. , González Antonio J. , Pani Roberto , Preziosi Enrico , Jackson Carl , Murphy John , Barberá Julio , Correcher Carlos , Aussenhofer Sebastian , Gareis Daniel , Visvikis Dimitris , Bert Julien , Langstrom Bengt , Farde Lars , Toth Miklos , Haggkvist Jenny , Caixeta Fabio V. , Kullander Klas , Somlai-Schweiger Ian , Schwaiger Markus
Published: February 2018

We present the first results of the MINDVIEW project. An innovative imaging system for the human brain examination, allowing simultaneous acquisition of PET/MRI images, has been designed and constructed. It consists of a high sensitivity and high resolution PET scanner integrated in a novel, head-dedicated, radio frequency coil for a 3T MRI scanner. Preliminary measurements from the PET scanner show sensitivity 3 times higher than state-of-the-art PET systems that will allow safe repeated studies on the same patient. The achieved spatial resolution, close to 1 mm, will enable differentiation of relevant brain structures for schizophrenia. A cost-effective and simple method of radiopharmaceutical production from 11C-carbon monoxide and a mini-clean room has been demonstrated. It has been shown that 11C-raclopride has higher binding potential in a new VAAT null mutant mouse model of schizophrenia compared to wild type control animals. A significant reduction in TSPO binding has been found in gray matter in a small sample of drug-naïve, first episode psychosis patients, suggesting a reduced number or an altered function of immune cells in brain at early stage schizophrenia.
Magnesium sulphate induces preconditioning in preterm rodent models of cerebral hypoxia‐ischemia
Authors: Koning Gabriella , Lyngfelt Ellinor , Svedin Pernilla , Leverin Anna‐Lena , Jinnai Masako , Gressens Pierre , Thornton Claire , Wang Xiaoyang , Mallard Carina , Hagberg Henrik
Published: February 2018

Background

Brain injury in preterm infants represents a substantial clinical problem associated with development of motor impairment, cognitive deficits and psychiatric problems. According to clinical studies, magnesium sulphate (MgSO4) given to women in preterm labor reduces the risk of cerebral palsy in the offspring but the mechanisms behind its neuroprotective effects are still unclear. Our aim was to explore whether MgSO4 induces tolerance (preconditioning) in the preterm rodent brain. For this purpose we established a model of perinatal hypoxia‐ischemia (HI) in postnatal day 4 rats and also applied a recently developed postnatal day 5 mouse model of perinatal brain injury.

Methods

Postnatal day 4 Wistar rats were exposed to unilateral carotid artery ligation followed by 60, 70 or 80 min of hypoxia (8% O2). On postnatal day 11, brains were collected and macroscopically visible damage as well as white and grey matter injury was examined using immunohistochemical staining. Once the model had been established, a possible preconditioning protection induced by a bolus MgSO4 injection prior to 80 min HI was examined 7 days after the insult. Next, a MgSO4 bolus was injected in C57Bl6 mice on PND 4 followed by exposure to unilateral carotid artery ligation and hypoxia, (10% O2) for 70 min on PND 5. Brains were collected 7 days after the insult and examined with immunohistochemistry for grey and white matter injury.

Results

In rats, a 60 min period of hypoxia resulted in very few animals with brain injury and although 70 min of hypoxia resulted in a higher percentage of injured animals, the brains were marginally damaged. An 80 min exposure of hypoxia caused cortical tissue damage combined with hippocampal atrophy and neuronal loss in the C3 hippocampal layer.

In the rat model, MgSO4 (1.1 mg/g administered i.p. 24 h prior to the induction of HI, resulting in a transient serum Mg2+ concentration elevation to 4.1 ± 0.2 mmol/l at 3 h post i.p. injection) reduced brain injury by 74% in grey matter and 64% in white matter.

In the mouse model, MgSO4 (0.92 mg/g) i.p. injection given 24 h prior to the HI insult resulted in a Mg2+ serum concentration increase reaching 2.7 ± 0.3 mmol/l at 3 h post injection, which conferred a 40% reduction in grey matter injury.

Conclusions

We have established a postnatal day 4 rat model of HI for the study of preterm brain injury. MgSO4 provides a marked preconditioning protection both in postnatal day 4 rats and in postnatal day 5 mice.
Risk factors for intra-abdominal abscess post laparoscopic appendicectomy for gangrenous or perforated appendicitis: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Guy Stephen , Wysocki Peter
Published: February 2018

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Acute appendicitis is one of the most common causes of abdominal pain. Post-operative Intra-abdominal Abscess (PIA) frequently complicates appendicectomy and increases morbidity and cost (1). Its incidence is increased in perforated or gangrenous appendicitis (2). Risk factors for the development of PIA within this high-risk group have not been established in adults. This study aimed to identify risk factors associated with PIA following laparoscopic appendicectomy for gangrenous or perforated appendicitis in adults. Secondary aims were to describe the timing and anatomical location of PIA occurrence.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort study was performed. The data of all adults that underwent laparoscopic appendicectomy for gangrenous or perforated appendicitis at Logan Hospital (Queensland, Australia) from July 2010 to June 2014 were reviewed using a database from a previous study (3). The Primary outcome was the association between the development of PIA and; age, gender, American Society of Anaesthesiologists class, Disease Severity Score (4), blood tests on admission (white cell count (WCC), C-reactive protein, total bilirubin) and histopathology of the appendix.

Results:

Of 143 patients, 13 developed PIA (9.1%). There was a weakly positive association between elevated preoperative WCC and the risk of PIA (Spearman’s correlation coefficient 0.174, P = 0.038). No other factors were significantly associated with increased risk of PIA. The median post-operative day of diagnosis was day nine (mean 7.9, range 2–17).

Conclusions:

In this cohort, there was a weakly positive association between preoperative WCC and PIA. Prospective trials investigating other potential risk factors are required.

Highlights:
Cerebrospinal fluid neurofilament light levels in neurodegenerative dementia: Evaluation of diagnostic accuracy in the differential diagnosis of prion diseases
Authors: Zerr Inga , Schmitz Matthias , Karch André , Villar‐Piqué Anna , Kanata Eirini , Golanska Ewa , Díaz‐Lucena Daniela , Karsanidou Aikaterini , Hermann Peter , Knipper Tobias , Goebel Stefan , Varges Daniela , Sklaviadis Theodoros , Sikorska Beata , Liberski Pawel P. , Santana Isabel , Ferrer Isidro , Zetterberg Henrik , Blennow Kaj , Calero Olga , Calero Miguel , Ladogana Anna , Sánchez‐Valle Raquel , Baldeiras Inês , Llorens Franc
Published: February 2018

Introduction

Neurofilament light (NFL) levels in the cerebrospinal fluid are increased in several neurodegenerative dementias. However, their diagnostic accuracy in the differential diagnostic context is unknown.

Methods

Cerebrospinal fluid NFL levels were quantified in nonprimarily neurodegenerative neurological and psychiatric diseases (n = 122), mild cognitive impairment (n = 48), Alzheimer's disease (n = 108), dementia with Lewy bodies/Parkinson's disease dementia (n = 53), vascular dementia (n = 46), frontotemporal dementia (n = 41), sporadic Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease (sCJD, n = 132), and genetic prion diseases (n = 182).

Results

The highest NFL levels were detected in sCJD, followed by vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies/Parkinson's disease dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and mild cognitive impairment. In sCJD, NFL levels correlated with cerebrospinal fluid tau and disease duration. NFL levels were able to differentiate sCJD from nonprimarily neurodegenerative neurological and psychiatric diseases (area under the curve = 0.99, 95% confidence interval: 0.99–1) and from the other diagnostic groups showing cognitive impairment/dementia of a non‐CJD etiology (area under the curve = 0.90, 95% confidence interval: 0.87–0.92). Compared to nonprimarily neurodegenerative neurological and psychiatric diseases, NFL was also elevated in genetic prion diseases associated with the E200K, V210I, P102L, and D178N prion protein gene mutations.

Discussion

Increased NFL levels are a common feature in neurodegenerative dementias.
Alzheimer's disease public‐private partnerships: Update 2017
Authors: Snyder Heather M. , Perlman William R. , Egge Robert , Carrillo Maria C.
Published: February 2018

Introduction

The National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease stresses the need for public‐private partnerships to be coordinated and cooperative to accelerate the state of research and reach the ultimate goal of preventing and effectively treating Alzheimer's disease by the year 2025.

Methods

The Alzheimer's Association, in collaboration with the International Alzheimer's disease Research Funder Consortium, compiles this annually updated compendium to centralize this inventory of partnerships in an effort to synergize these activities.

Results

This article reflects the 2017 landscape of nonprofit organizations who engage in public‐private partnerships to promote and support dementia research.

Discussion

The private‐public partnerships in the Alzheimer's disease community continue to increase, addressing much needed complex challenges in the field.
Género y calidad de vida en la adolescencia
Authors: Rodríguez Belmaresa Patricia , Matud Aznar María Pilar , Álvarez Bermúdez Javier
Published: February 2018

El objetivo del presente estudio fue analizar las relaciones en adolescentes hombres y mujeres con su calidad de vida, estudiando a la vez lavariable de rol de género interiorizado (masculino, femenino, andrógino, indiferenciado) y el rendimiento académico de los jóvenes. El estudioes transversal y participaron 450 estudiantes de nivel Secundaria, con edades entre 12 y 16 a˜nos, que fueron evaluados mediante una batería depruebas. Como resultados se encontró que existen diferencias en la calidad de vida en relación al género y a los roles, siendo también relevante elrendimiento académico, el cual se relaciona especialmente con el ambiente escolar. Se concluye que la adolescencia es una etapa donde aumentala capacidad de evaluar la satisfacción vital y el bienestar de forma crítica y consciente, si bien existen diferencias en los niveles de calidad devida en función del género y de los roles de género. El rol andrógino favorece a tener un mayor bienestar, dejando a un lado la concepción de latipificación sexual: hombre masculino, mujer femenina. Es importante también considerar los ambientes escolares donde se desenvuelven los ylas adolescentes, ya que estos se relacionan de forma importante con su calidad de vida.© 2018 Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Asociación Mexicana de Comportamiento y Salud. Este es un artículo Open Access bajo lalicencia CC BY-NC-ND (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).
Correlation of clinical data and the Alvarado's Score as predictors of acute appendicitis
Authors: Cunha Carlos Magno Queiroz da , Neto Giovanni Troiani , Brasil Andre Cavalcante , Menezes Francisco Julimar Correia de , Brilhante Aline Veras Morais , Reinaldo Rommel Reno Porcino
Published: February 2018

Objective To correlate the patient's clinical data and the Alvarado's Score as predictors of acute appendicitis.

Methods This is an observational, descriptive and prospective study performed at a public urgency and emergency hospital in the city of Fortaleza, Ceará, between July and December 2016, with 34 patients undergoing open appendectomy with ages between 18 and 70 years. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS program.

Results The following statistical correlations were performed: number of days with abdominal pain until the operative event and degree of inflammation according to a macroscopic analysis of the appendix, Alvarado's Score and number of days with abdominal pain until the operative event, Alvarado's Score and degree of inflammation according to a macroscopic analysis of the appendix, number of days with abdominal pain until the operative event, and number of days of hospitalization in the postoperative period, degree of inflammation according to amacroscopic analysis of the appendix, number of days of hospitalization in the postoperative period and Alvarado's Score, and number of days of hospitalization in the postoperative period; the first five correlations were statistically significant (p < 0.05).

Conclusion The use of this Alvarado's Score in health services emerges as a tool for the diagnosis of acute appendicitis.
Deficiency of vitamin D and its relation with clinical and laboratory activity of inflammatory bowel diseases
Authors: Scolaro Bruno Lorenzo , Barretta Claiza , Matos Cristina Henschel , Malluta Everson Fernando , Almeida Isadora Bampi Tavares de , Braggio Laura Domingues , Bobato Sueli , Specht Clarice Maria
Published: February 2018

Objective To evaluate the serum concentrations of vitamin D and their relation with inflammatory bowel diseases.

Methods This is a quantitative and descriptive study, with individuals assisted by the interdisciplinary ambulatory of Inflammatory Bowel Disease of the Family and Community Health Unit of Itajaí/SC from September 2015 to October 2016. Socioeconomic data, life habits, and biochemical tests were collected, with the use of clinical indexes of classification of the disease activity: Harvey-Bradshaw Index (Crohn's Disease) and Partial Mayo Score (Chronic Nonspecific Ulcerative Colitis).

Results Of the 60 patients evaluated, 57% (n = 34) had Crohn's Disease and 43% (n = 26) had Chronic Nonspecific Ulcerative Colitis. According to disease activity, 75% (n = 45) were in the remission phase, 13% (n = 8) had mild activity, and 9% (n = 5) had moderate activity. Regarding vitamin D, 63% (n = 38) had deficiency of this vitamin and 37% (n = 22) presented sufficiency. With the association of serum vitamin D concentrations and disease activity, we observed statistical significance among the variables (p = 0.005). Regarding biochemical exams, the majority of patients with fecal calprotectin elevation presented vitamin D deficiency (p = 0.025). Statistically significant correlation between HSV and vitamin D (p = 0.0001) was found.

Conclusion According to the findings of this study, vitamin D deficiency is related to the clinical and laboratory activity of inflammatory bowel diseases.
Peritoneal carcinomatosis treated with cytoreductive surgery and intraperitoneal chemotherapy
Authors: Hanan Bernardo , Fonseca Leonardo Maciel , Profeta da Luz Magda Maria , Lacerda-Filho Antônio , Cabral Mônica Maria Demas Álvares , Gomes da Silva Rodrigo
Published: February 2018

Introduction To evaluate the combined treatment with cytoreductive surgery and intraperitoneal chemotherapy for peritoneal carcinomatosis arising from colorectal cancer, pseudomyxoma peritonei and mesothelioma.

Methods Data were obtained from 73 patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis arising from colorectal cancer (52.1%), pseudomyxoma peritonei (41.1%) or mesothelioma (6.8%) between 2002 and 2011. We reported the morbidity grade (II, III and IV), mortality and survival rates of the candidates after cytoreductive surgery and intraperitoneal chemotherapy.

Results 41 (56.2%) women participated, and the median age was 50 years. Thirty-nine patients (53.4%) underwent complete cytoreductive surgery and intraperitoneal chemotherapy. Patients who underwent a complete cytoreduction received intraperitoneal chemotherapy with mitomycin C, from which only 16/39 (41%) had hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (41–42 °C). The overall morbidity rate was 23.3% and the grade III/IV complication rate was 12.3%. The overall mortality rate was 5.5%. The univariate analysis showed that cytoreductive surgery and intraperitoneal chemotherapy (p = .029), a blood transfusion (p = .002) and the operative time (p = .001) were significant for the occurrence of postoperative complications. Patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis from colorectal cancer who underwent complete cytoreductive surgery and intraperitoneal chemotherapy had overall survival rates of 81.3%, 12.5% and 12.5% at 1, 3 and 5 years, respectively. Patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis from pseudomyxoma peritonei who underwent complete cytoreductive surgery and intraperitoneal chemotherapy had overall survival rates of 84.2%, 77.7% and 77.7% at 1, 3 and 5 years, respectively.

Conclusion The combined treatment for peritoneal carcinomatosis may be performed safely with acceptable morbidity and mortality in a specialized unit setting. Although over half of patients underwent normothermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy, our results were comparable to results from others centers.
Early Hormonal Treatment Affects Body Composition and Body Shape in Young Transgender Adolescents
Authors: Klaver Maartje , de Mutsert Renée , Wiepjes Chantal M. , Twisk Jos W.R. , den Heijer Martin , Rotteveel Joost , Klink Daniël T.
Published: February 2018

Background

Transgender adolescents aspiring to have the body characteristics of the affirmed sex can receive hormonal treatment. However, it is unknown how body shape and composition develop during treatment and whether transgender persons obtain the desired body phenotype.

Aim

To examine the change in body shape and composition from the start of treatment with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRHa) until 22 years of age and to compare these measurements at 22 years with those of age-matched peers.

Methods

71 transwomen (birth-assigned boys) and 121 transmen (birth-assigned girls) who started treatment from 1998 through 2014 were included in this retrospective study. GnRHa treatment was started and cross-sex hormonal treatment was added at 16 years of age. Anthropometric and whole-body dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry data were retrieved from medical records. Linear mixed model regression was performed to examine changes over time. SD scores (SDS) were calculated to compare body shape and composition with those of age-matched peers.

Outcomes

Change in waist-hip ratio (WHR), total body fat (TBF), and total lean body mass (LBM) during hormonal treatment. SDS of measures of body shape and composition compared with age-matched peers at 22 years of age.

Results

In transwomen, TBF increased (+10%, 95% CI = 7–11) while total LBM (−10%, 95% CI = −11 to −7) and WHR (−0.04, 95% CI = −0.05 to −0.02) decreased. Compared with ciswomen, SDS at 22 years of age were +0.3 (95% CI = 0.0–0.5) for WHR, and 0.0 (95% CI = −0.2 to 0.3) for TBF. Compared with cismen, SDS were −1.0 (95% CI = −1.3 to −0.7) for WHR, and +2.2 (95% CI = 2.2–2.4) for TBF. In transmen, TBF decreased (−3%, 95% CI = −4 to −1), while LBM (+3%, 95% CI = 1–4) and WHR (+0.03, 95% CI = 0.01–0.04) increased. Compared with ciswomen, SDS at 22 years of age were +0.6 (95% CI = 0.4–0.8) for WHR, and −1.1 (95% CI = −1.4 to −0.9) for TBF. Compared with cismen, SDS were −0.5 (95% CI = −0.8 to −0.3) for WHR, and +1.8 (95% CI = 1.6–1.9) for TBF.

Clinical Implications

Knowing body shape and composition outcomes at 22 years of age will help care providers in counseling transgender youth on expectations of attaining the desired body phenotype.

Strengths and Limitations

This study presents the largest group of transgender adults to date who started treatment in their teens. Despite missing data, selection bias was not found.

Conclusions

During treatment, WHR and body composition changed toward the affirmed sex. At 22 years of age, transwomen compared better to age-matched ciswomen than to cismen, whereas transmen were between reference values for ciswomen and cismen.
Tibial Nerve Stimulation to Drive Genital Sexual Arousal in an Anesthetized Female Rat
Authors: Zimmerman Lauren L. , Rice Indie C. , Berger Mitchell B. , Bruns Tim M.
Published: February 2018

Background

There is clinical evidence that percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation can positively benefit women with female sexual interest/arousal disorder, yet no studies have explored the potential mechanisms further.

Aim

To investigate the effect of tibial nerve stimulation on vaginal blood perfusion (VBP) in an anesthetized rat model.

Methods

16 ketamine-anesthetized rats were surgically implanted with a nerve cuff electrode on 1 tibial nerve. The tibial nerve was stimulated for 30 minutes continuously or non-continuously at a frequency of 10 to 25 Hz.

Outcomes

VBP was measured with laser Doppler flowmetry and analyzed using a wavelet transform of time-frequency representations with a focus on the neurogenic energy range (0.076–0.200 Hz).

Results

25 of 33 (75.8%) stimulation periods had at least a 500% increase in laser Doppler flowmetry neurogenic energy compared with baseline. This increase was most common within 20 to 35 minutes after the start of stimulation. There was no statistically significant difference for frequency used or estrous cycle stage.

Clinical Translation

The results of this study provide further support for percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation as an alternative treatment option for women with genital arousal aspects of female sexual interest/arousal disorder.

Strengths and Limitations

This study successfully demonstrates the ability of tibial nerve stimulation to increase VBP. However, further studies to determine parameter optimization and to illuminate neural mechanisms are needed. Further studies also are necessary to determine effects of repeated stimulation sessions.

Conclusion

Long-duration tibial stimulation was successful at driving increases in the neurogenic component of VBP, providing evidence that tibial nerve stimulation could be used to treat genital arousal aspects of female sexual interest/arousal disorder by improving pelvic blood flow.
Orthodontic tooth movement: The biology and clinical implications
Authors: Li Yina , Jacox Laura A. , Little Shannyn H. , Ko Ching‐Chang
Published: February 2018

Orthodontic tooth movement relies on coordinated tissue resorption and formation in the surrounding bone and periodontal ligament. Tooth loading causes local hypoxia and fluid flow, initiating an aseptic inflammatory cascade culminating in osteoclast resorption in areas of compression and osteoblast deposition in areas of tension. Compression and tension are associated with particular signaling factors, establishing local gradients to regulate remodeling of the bone and periodontal ligament for tooth displacement. Key regulators of inflammation and tissue turnover include secreted factors like RANK ligand and osteoprotegerin, transcription factors such as RUNX2 and hypoxia‐inducible factor, cytokines, prostaglandins, tissue necrosis factors, and proteases, among others. Inflammation occurred during tooth movement needs to be well controlled, as dysregulated inflammation leads to tissue destruction manifested in orthodontic‐induced root resorption and periodontal disease. Understanding the biology has profound clinical implications especially in the area of accelerating orthodontic tooth movement. Surgical, pharmacological, and physical interventions are being tested to move teeth faster to reduce treatment times and time‐dependent adverse outcomes. Future developments in acceleratory technology and custom appliances will allow orthodontic tooth movement to occur more efficiently and safely.
From a follower to a trendsetter: Hungary’s post-Cold War identity and the West
Authors: Shevchenko Alexei
Published: February 2018

The article attempts to make sense of recent developments in Hungary’s relationship with the EU and the US by explicating the logic behind the formation of its post-Cold War identity. The article’s central theoretical argument derives from social identity theory (SIT) in social psychology which argues that social groups strive for positive distinctiveness and provides concrete hypotheses concerning the identity management strategies that groups use to enhance their relative position. Extrapolating the identity management techniques predicted by SIT to international politics, I suggest that states may enhance their relative standing by imitating more advanced states (strategy of social mobility), trying to displace the higher-ranked state (strategy of social competition), or finding a new arena in which to be superior (strategy of social creativity). The article argues that Orban’s government post- 2010 steps in domestic and foreign policy can be conceptualized as attempts to redefine Hungary’s identity by moving away from the strategy of social mobility pursued since the end of communism towards the strategy of social creativity.
Condromatose sinovial extensa envolvendo todos os tendões do túnel do tarso: relato de caso
Authors: Pinter Zachariah , Shah Ashish , Netto Cesar , Smith Walter , O'Daly Andres , Godoy-Santos Alexandre
Published: February 2018

A condromatose sinovial é uma condição rara caracterizada por metaplasia condrogênica benigna do tecido sinovial extra-articular, que geralmente afeta uma única bainha tendínea da mão ou do pé. O objetivo é relatar o caso raro de um paciente com diagnóstico de condromatose sinovial extensa afetando todos os tendões flexores na topografia do túnel do tarso, suas características radiológicas, tratamento cirúrgico e desfecho clínico. Os autores apresentam um caso único de condromatose sinovial extensa em um homem de 48 anos envolvendo as bainhas dos tendões flexor longo do hálux, flexor longo dos dedos e tibial posterior, na topografia do túnel do tarso, com extensão para a região plantar do retropé. O sintoma inicial foi de compressão neurovascular (síndrome do túnel do tarso). A suspeita diagnóstica foi condromatose sinovial com base em evidências radiográficas e de ressonância magnética. O paciente foi submetido a ressecção cirúrgica do tumor, bem como a liberação do túnel tarsal e alongamento do tendão dos gastrocnêmios. O diagnóstico foi confirmado por exame histopatológico do espécime colhido no período intraoperatório. A evolução pós-operatória do paciente ocorreu sem complicações e os sintomas da síndrome do túnel do tarso cessaram. Os autores relatam um caso de condromatose sinovial extensa envolvendo todos os tendões flexores do túnel do tarso, corretamente diagnosticado por achados clínicos e radiológicos e que necessitou de ressecção cirúrgica precoce para evitar complicações neurovasculares em longo prazo.
Técnica de Stoppa modificada para fratura de acetábulo: uma revisão
Authors: Soni Ashwani , Gupta Ravi , Sen Ramesh
Published: February 2018

Fraturas acetabulares são lesões graves e desafiadoras para cirurgiões ortopédicos. As abordagens anterior e posterior foram descritas para a fixação dessas fraturas. A técnica de Stoppa modificada é considerada uma alternativa à abordagem anterior, que fornece acesso à pelve pelo interior da cavidade. O objetivo do presente artigo é revisar a literatura disponível sobre o uso da abordagem de Stoppa modificada em fraturas de acetábulo. Os dados disponíveis sugerem que a abordagem de Stoppa modificada é útil em fraturas anteriores de acetábulo e em algumas fraturas posteriores, especialmente aquelas nas quais o reforço da parede medial se faz necessário.
“Joelho flutuante,” uma lesão incomum: análise de 12 casos
Authors: Yadav Vishal , Suri Harpreet , Vijayvargiya Mayank , Agashe Vikas , Shetty Vivek
Published: February 2018

As lesões do tipo joelho flutuante (FKIs, na sigla em inglês) são complexas e são geralmente causadas por trauma de alta velocidade. Estas lesões são frequentemente associadas a lesões que causam risco de morte, que devem ter precedente sobre lesões nas extremidades. Os autores revisaram os resultados das lesões do tipo joelho flutuante tratadas nesta instituição entre 2003 e 2015.

Foi realizado um estudo retrospectivo de todos os pacientes com FKIs de 2003 a 2015. Doze pacientes foram incluídos no estudo. Os dados relacionados ao tipo de fratura, lesões associadas, modalidades de tratamento e complicações foram observados. A avaliação funcional foi realizada utilizando os critérios de Karlstrom modificados após a união óssea completa.

O mecanismo de lesão foi acidente automobilístico em todos os pacientes. O acompanhamento médio foi de 4 anos. A média de idade dos pacientes foi de 34,75 anos. O tempo médio de união óssea foi de 6,5 meses nos fêmures e de 6,7 meses nas tíbias. As complicações foram rigidez do joelho, união óssea tardia e infecção. De acordo com os critérios modificados de Karlstrom, três resultados foram considerados excelentes, cinco bons, três razoáveis e um resultado foi considerado ruim.

Lesões do tipo joelho flutuante são graves e são geralmente associadas a lesões de vários órgãos. A detecção precoce e o tratamento adequado das lesões associadas, a afixação precoce das fraturas e a reabilitação pós-operatória são necessários para um bom resultado. As complicações são frequentes, sob a forma de união óssea tardia, rigidez do joelho e infecção.
Fratura intertrocantérica do fêmur em um quadril anquilosado: Relato de caso
Authors: Devkota Pramod , Ahmad Shiraz , Pande Ketan C.
Published: February 2018

A fratura intertrocantérica do fêmur em um quadril anquilosado é extremamente rara. O objetivo do manejo operatório em idosos com fraturas intertrocantéricas é prevenir complicações gerais, manter a mobilidade, e aliviar a dor. O manejo ideal para atingir tal objetivo não é claro. Os autores apresentam o caso de um paciente do sexo masculino de 74 anos com fratura intertrocantérica do fêmur em um quadril anquilosado. A fratura foi tratada cirurgicamente com parafuso de quadril dinâmico e parafuso canulado. Dois anos após a cirurgia, observou-se boa união na fratura, e o paciente deambula de forma independente.
Fratura do escafoide társico em um praticante de parkour, uma lesão rara – Relato de Caso e Revisão da Literatura
Authors: Karmali Samir , Ramos Jorge Teixeira , Almeida João , Barros André , Campos Pedro , Costa Daniel Sá da
Published: February 2018

As fraturas do escafoide társico, bem como outras lesões do médiopé, são raras e podem resultar em incapacidade grave se não forem tratadas adequadamente. Parkour, um esporte moderno, está ganhando popularidade entre os jovens em áreas urbanas, e é propenso a traumatismos de alta energia, sendo estes escassamente descritos na literatura. O presente relato trata de um caso de fratura rara do escafoide társico em um paciente do sexo masculino de 17 anos, ocorrida durante a prática de parkour, que foi tratada com sucesso, com redução aberta e fixação interna. A descrição do caso enfatiza os desafios na sua abordagem; a discussão destaca as opções de tratamento e seus objetivos. O caso também deve alertar sobre a ocorrência crescente dessas lesões incomuns.
Building and rebuilding with composites in North America
Authors: Dobbins Tom
Published: February 2018

As fall becomes winter, residents across North America and the Caribbean are still feeling the impact of one of the most destructive hurricane seasons in recent memory. Rebuilding our infrastructure, no matter how it’s done, will be an expensive ongoing effort that takes years. However, in a political climate driven by a scarcity of funds, the United States can make a difference right now by prioritizing funding and changing the way our nation uses innovative materials. Right now, a majority of North American bridges, utility poles, crossarms, pipes and tanks rely on old-fashioned materials like wood, concrete and steel.
Veolia helps UK dairy reduce its impact on the environment
Authors: Atkinson Simon
Published: February 2018

This brief article describes the way in which Veolia Water Technologies is working with one of the UK's largest dairy operations to reduce its impact on the environment, and pioneer sustainable development, with the aim of establishing a zero carbon facility.
Ultra‐thin smart electronic skin based on hybrid system‐in‐foil concept combining three flexible electronics technologies
Authors: Elsobky M. , Mahsereci Y. , Yu Z. , Richter H. , Burghartz J. N. , Keck J. , Klauk H. , Zschieschang U.
Published: February 2018

Flexible electronics combined with new materials and fabrication processes offer unique characteristics such as mechanical flexibility, thin‐form factor, large area scaling feasibility, and adaptability to irregular surfaces. In this work, a smart electronic skin adopting the hybrid system‐in‐foil concept is designed to monitor the uniaxial bending of a robotic gripper. The newly designed smart skin contains an array of printed strain gauges, organic thin‐film transistor (TFT) addressing circuits and a 20 μm ultra‐thin silicon readout chip, all integrated on the same polymeric foil. The silver‐ink printed strain gauges achieve a relative resistance sensitivity ΔR/R of 2% and a gauge factor of 2. In addition, the organic TFT multiplexer containing a three‐stage shift register and analogue switches operate at a frequency of 100 Hz and a supply voltage of 3 V. The ultra‐thin silicon chip provides the functions of system control, strain gauge readout, analogue‐to‐digital conversion and serial communication.
Quantised stabilisation of continuous‐time switched systems with time‐delay
Authors: Wang Xinjing , Wen Chenglin , Yan Jingjing , Xia Yuanqing
Published: February 2018

This study is concerned with the problem of achieving exponential convergence and Lyapunov stability with respect to time‐varying time‐delay for switched systems with quantised measurements. Here the controller under the influence of time‐delay is designed by quantised sampling signals to stabilise the continuous‐time switched systems. The difficulty of this study lies in how to design a quantisation rule ensuring the unsaturation of quantiser under the coupling effect of switching uncertainty and time‐delay uncertainty. To this aim, a virtual system is introduced to update observer states and facilitate stability analysis. Furthermore, by restraining the upper bound of the sampling interval, all the situations discussed are divided into three categories, under which, the authors study the distinguishments of system states and observer states at delay time to acquire quantisation rule and quantiser properties at the sampling time. Within this setup, the upper bound of the system states and thus the stability of the closed‐loop systems are obtained. The authors at last give an illustrative example to show the usefulness of the proposed framework for stability analysis of some classes of switched systems.
Polynomial fuzzy model‐based approach for underactuated surface vessels
Authors: Khooban Mohammad‐Hassan , Vafamand Navid , Dragičević Tomislav , Blaabjerg Frede
Published: February 2018

The main goal of this study is to introduce a new polynomial fuzzy model‐based structure for a class of marine systems with non‐linear and polynomial dynamics. The suggested technique relies on a polynomial Takagi–Sugeno (T–S) fuzzy modelling, a polynomial dynamic parallel distributed compensation and a sum‐of‐squares (SOS) decomposition. The new proposed approach is a generalisation of the standard T–S fuzzy models and linear matrix inequality which indicated its effectiveness in decreasing the tracking time and increasing the efficiency of the robust tracking control problem for an underactuated surface vessel (USV). Additionally, in order to overcome the USV control challenges, including the USV un‐modelled dynamics, complex nonlinear dynamics, external disturbances and parameter uncertainties, the polynomial fuzzy model representation is adopted. Moreover, the USV‐based control structure is formulated in terms of SOS conditions. Unlike the conventional approaches, the proposed approach can be easily implemented in the real‐time and applied to a reasonably wide class of non‐linear systems. Finally, the extensive studies and hardware‐in‐the‐loop simulations are presented, which prove the effectiveness of the novel proposed method.
Sampled‐data synchronisation for memristive neural networks with multiple time‐varying delays via extended convex combination method
Authors: Zhang Ruimei , Zeng Deqiang , Zhong Shouming , Yu Yongbin , Cheng Jun
Published: February 2018

This study presents a rigorous mathematical framework for the global asymptotic synchronisation of memristive neural networks comprising multiple time‐varying delays (MTVDs) through sampled‐data control. First, a novel Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional (LKF) is constructed with some new terms, which can fully capture the information on lower and upper bounds of each MTVD. Second, extended convex combination method is presented, which can successfully solve the combination of MTVDs. Third, based on the LKF and employing the extended convex combination technique, synchronisation criterion is derived. In comparison with existing results, the established criterion is more appropriate since it fully utilises the lower and upper bounds of each MTVD. Finally, simulation results are presented to validate the theoretical models.
Dynamic ROI extraction method for hand vein images
Authors: Damak Wafa , Boukhris Trabelsi Randa , Alima Damak Masmoudi , Sellami Dorra
Published: February 2018

The region of interest (ROI) extraction is important in hand vein recognition system. The main challenges for accurate extraction of the vein region are to overcome variability in hand size, lighting conditions, orientation, appearance, noisy background, and non‐uniform grey levels in foreground region. Here, we propose a new dynamic hand vein ROI extraction, preserving the whole vein area. A hand segmentation process robust to the mentioned challenges, contributing to an accurate definition of hand edge delimitations is proposed. Our approach is validated on both dorsal vein Bosphorus database and palm vein Vera database. Our proposed method accuracy is ∼98% for Bosphorus database and 90% for Vera database. To illustrate the efficiency of the proposed ROI extraction, we insert it as a first block in a hand vein recognition system. Then, a comparison study at system level with recent approaches is carried on, showing an improvement of the whole system area under the curve by a rate of 12% and 2% for Bosphorus and Vera databases, respectively. The speed performances demonstrate a mean run time of 0.73 s for Bosphorus database and 1.2 s for Vera database, proving that the proposed method can be conveniently used on a real‐time application.
Hybrid predictive control strategy for a low‐cost converter‐fed IM drive
Authors: Shi Shuqi , Sun Yao , Su Mei , Che Ruyu
Published: February 2018

The converter consisting of a single‐phase half‐bridge rectifier and four‐switch three‐phase inverter is a low‐cost power converter with complicated operating constraints. It is difficult to control by the conventional strategies. This study proposes a hybrid predictive control strategy with dual loops for this converter. In the outer loop, a proportional–integral controller is designed to regulate the dc‐link voltage, capacitor voltage balancing, and the speed and flux of induction motors (IM). Also, in the inner loop, the finite set model predictive control is employed to control the ac input current and stator currents of the IM. The major advantages of the control strategy include: (i) easy to deal with complicated constraints and manage multiple control targets; (ii) without the need of modulators; (iii) good dynamic response. The simulation and experimental results indicate that the proposed method can guarantee the stable operation and good performance.
Image filtering method using trimmed statistics and edge preserving
Authors: Cai Weiling , Yang Ming , Song Fengyi
Published: February 2018

Image filtering is to retain the details of the image as much as possible and meanwhile suppress the noise pollution to great extent. This study presents an image filtering using the truncated statistics and edge preserving. In the first step of our method, the alpha‐trimmed filter is utilized to remove a variety of types of noises; in the second step, taking the image after alpha‐trimmed filtering as a guide image, the local linear model between the guide image and the target image is established; in the third step, the obtained local linear model is further simplified to reduce the time complexity; and finally, using the relationship between image local variance and the global variance, the local linear model is modified to enhance the details of the image and meanwhile remove halo phenomenon. This method has three advantages: (i) it is flexible to deal with the images stained by various types of high‐intensity noise; (ii) it is effective to keep the image details and profile information, and remove the halo phenomenon; and (iii) it runs in time linear in the image size, thus its computation complexity is low. Experimental results show that the proposed filter is robust and efficient.
Multiframe super‐resolution based on a high‐order spatially weighted regularisation
Authors: Laghrib Amine , Alahyane Mohamed , Ghazdali Abdelghani , Hakim Abdelilah , Raghay Said
Published: February 2018

Here, the authors propose a spatially weighted super‐resolution (SR) algorithm, which takes into consideration the distribution of every information that characterise different image areas. The authors investigate to use a combined spatially weighted regularisation of the bilateral total variation and a second‐order term increasing then the robustness of the proposed SR approach with respect to blur and noise degradations. In addition, the authors propose an iterative Bregman iteration algorithm to resolve the obtained optimisation SR problem. As a result, this regularisation is more efficient and easier to implement; moreover, it preserves well the smooth regions of the image and also sharp edges. Using different simulated and real tests, the authors prove the efficiency of the proposed algorithm compared to some SR methods.
Image segmentation fusion using weakly supervised trace‐norm multi‐task learning method
Authors: Liang Xianpeng , Huang De‐Shuang
Published: February 2018

In this study, the authors propose a new method to fuse multiple segmentations generated by different methods or same methods with different parameters. The proposed method has several contributions. First, they convert the image segmentation fusion problem into a weakly supervised learning problem. Thus, the information of superpixels can be used to guide the fusion process. Second, they treat the multiple segmentations as multiple closely related tasks and utilise multi‐task learning method to evaluate the reliability of the segmentations. Third, they design a strategy to ensemble the evaluated segmentation maps to obtain the final segmentation. The experiment on the benchmark dataset MSRC demonstrates the superior performance of the proposed method on image foreground and background segmentations.
Geographical angular zone‐based optimal resource allocation and efficient routing protocols for vehicular ad hoc networks
Authors: Madasamy Bhuvaneswari , Balasubramanian Paramasivan
Published: February 2018

Vehicular ad hoc network (VANET) is an emerging trend where vehicles communicate with each other and possibly with a roadside unit. Collaboration among vehicles is significant in VANET. Resource constraint is one of the great challenges of VANETs. Owing to the absence of centralised management, there is pitfall in optimal resource allocation that leads ineffective routing. Effective reliable routing is quite essential to achieve intelligent transportation. Stochastic dynamic programming (SDP) is currently employed as a tool to analyse and solve network resource constraint and allocation issues of resources in VANET. The authors have considered this work as a geographic angular zone‐based two‐phase dynamic resource allocation problem with homogeneous and heterogeneous resource class. This work uses relaxed approximation‐based SDP algorithm to generate optimal resource allocation strategies over time in response to past task completion status history. The second‐phase resource allocation uses the observed outcome of the first‐phase task completion to provide optimal viability decisions. They have also suggested an alternative solution called model predictive control algorithm (MPCA) that used approximation as a part to allocate resource over time in response to information on data transmission completion status. Simulation results show that the proposed schemes works significantly well for homogeneous resources.
Influence of adhesion layer on performance of surface plasmon resonance sensor
Authors: Maurya Jitendra Bahadur , Prajapati Yogendra Kumar
Published: February 2018

The nature of dielectric constant and its thickness placed between metal layer and prism base is analysed. The attributes of reflectance curve which defines the performance of the surface plasmon resonance sensor are shift in resonance angle, minimum reflection intensity, and half width at half maxima. These attributes are plotted according to the refractive index (RI) and extinction coefficient (EC) of the adhesion layer or buffer layer placed between metal layer and prism base. Further, these attributes are plotted according to the thickness of adhesion layer at different combination of RI and EC.
Real‐time PPP based on the Quasi‐Zenith Satellite System MADOCA‐LEX signal
Authors: Wang Guohui , Kuang Cuilin , Cai Changsheng , Yi Zhonghai , Dai Wujiao
Published: February 2018

This study assessed the satellite orbit and clock corrections of the L‐band experiment (LEX) signal correction messages broadcasted by the Japan Quasi‐Zenith Satellite System (QZSS) by comparing them with those of the international global navigation satellite system (GNSS) service real‐time (IGS‐RT) products. Using datasets collected at a fixed static station and a kinematic vehicle experiment, the authors evaluated the application of multi‐GNSS advanced demonstration of orbit and clock analysis (MADOCA) products in precise point positioning (PPP) through static and kinematic data processing modes. The results show that the MADOCA‐LEX products bring slightly larger root mean square and standard deviation of three‐dimensional positions than the IGS‐RT products. For kinematic PPP positioning, the convergence time was longer than IGS‐RT products. However, from the global scope, the positioning accuracy of the MADOCA‐LEX products, at a level of 20 cm, is comparable with that of the IGS‐RT products, which satisfies the need of global PPP.
Energy‐efficient medium access control and routing protocol for multihop wireless sensor networks
Authors: Sefuba Maria , Walingo Tom
Published: February 2018

This work presents a combined energy‐efficient medium access control (MAC) and routing protocol for large‐scale wireless sensor networks that aims to minimise energy consumption and prolong the network lifetime. The proposed communication framework employs the following measures to enhance the network energy efficiency. Firstly, it provides an adaptive intra‐cluster schedule to arbitrate media access of sensor nodes within a cluster, minimising idle listening on sensor nodes, leading to improved energy performance. Secondly, it proposes an on‐demand source cross‐layer routing protocol ensuring selection of best routes based on energy level and channel quality indicator for the multihop inter‐cluster data transmission. Lastly, an unequal cluster size technique based on cluster head residual energy and distance away from the base station is utilised. This technique balances the energy among clusters and avoids early network partitioning. This work further presents the analytical performance model for energy consumption and delay of the proposed communication framework. The performance measures used for evaluation are energy consumption, delay, and network lifetime. The results indicate that combining routing and MAC schemes conserves energy better than utilising MAC scheme alone.