bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Central Corneal Sublayer Pachymetry and Biomechanical Properties After Refractive Femtosecond Lenticule Extraction
Authors: Vestergaard Anders H. , Grauslund Jakob , Ivarsen Anders R. , Hjortdal Jesper Ø.
Published: February 2014

PURPOSE:

To compare central corneal sublayer pachymetry and biomechanical properties after femtosecond lenticule extraction (FLEX) and small-incision lenticule extraction (SMILE).

METHODS:

A prospective, randomized, single-masked clinical trial of 35 patients treated for moderate to high myopia with FLEX in one eye and SMILE in the other. Anterior segment optical coherence tomography imaging (Heidelberg Spectralis; Heidelberg Engineering GmbH, Heidelberg, Germany) was used to measure central corneal thickness (CCT) and epithelial, flap/cap, and residual stromal bed thickness centrally. The Ocular Response Analyzer (Reichert Ophthalmic Instruments, Buffalo, NY) was used to assess corneal hysteresis (CH) and corneal resistance factor (CRF). Patients were examined before and 6 months after surgery.

RESULTS:

Mean decrease in CCT was 105
μ
m in FLEX-treated eyes and 106
μ
m in SMILE-treated eyes (
P
= .70), which is equivalent to approximately 14
μ
m/diopters corrected. Mean central epithelial thickness increased 7 ± 6
μ
m in FLEX-treated eyes and 6 ± 5
μ
m in SMILE-treated eyes (
P
= .64). Achieved mean flap/cap thickness was 4 ± 6
μ
m from the expected thickness in FLEX-treated eyes and 4 ± 9
μ
m in SMILE-treated eyes (
P
= .37). CH was reduced 2.7 ± 1.3 mm Hg in FLEX-treated eyes and 3.3 ± 1.2 mm Hg in SMILE-treated eyes (
P
= .08). CRF was reduced 4.5 ± 1.2 mm Hg in FLEX-treated eyes and 4.6 ± 1.2 mm Hg in SMILE-treated eyes (
P
= .71). CH and CRF were highly correlated with CCT, but not patient age.

CONCLUSIONS:

In this paired-eye study, the flap-based FLEX and cap-based SMILE resulted in almost identical changes in central corneal sublayer pachymetry and biomechanical properties for moderate to high myopia 6 months after treatment.

[
J Refract Surg.
2014;30(2):102–108.]
Outcomes of Small Aperture Corneal Inlay Implantation in Patients With Pseudophakia
Authors: Huseynova Tukezban , Kanamori Tomomi , Waring George O. , Tomita Minoru
Published: February 2014

PURPOSE:

To evaluate the improvement in near visual acuity after KAMRA corneal inlay (AcuFocus, Inc., Irvine, CA) implantation in patients with pseudophakia.

METHODS:

A retrospective study analysis of patients with pseudophakia undergoing monocular corneal inlay implantation in the non-dominant eye was performed. The inlay was implanted monocularly in the non-dominant eye of patients. Manifest refractive spherical equivalent, uncorrected distance visual acuity, corrected distance visual acuity, uncorrected near visual acuity, and corrected near visual acuity were evaluated. The follow-up period was 3 months.

RESULTS:

Thirteen eyes from 13 patients were evaluated. Four patients underwent LASIK for improved distance acuity at the time of inlay implantation. Mean uncorrected near visual acuity improved five lines (from J10 to J4) postoperatively. Mean uncorrected distance visual acuity, corrected distance visual acuity, and corrected near visual acuity remained stable and were 20/20, 20/16, and J1, respectively, before and after KAMRA implantation. Three eyes lost two lines and 1 eye lost one line of uncorrected distance visual acuity. Two eyes lost two lines and 1 eye lost 1 line of corrected distance visual acuity. Mean manifest refractive spherical equivalent changed before and after KAMRA implantation from −0.01 ± 1.07 diopters (D) (range: 2.25 to −1.88 D) to −1.12 ± 0.87 D (range: 0.25 to −2.75 D), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS:

Implantation of a small aperture corneal inlay improved uncorrected near visual acuity while maintaining uncorrected and corrected distance visual acuity in monofocal patients with pseudophakia.

[
J Refract Surg.
2014;30(2):110–115.]
Refractive Surgery for Accommodative Esotropia: 5-Year Follow-up
Authors: Magli Adriano , Forte Raimondo , Gallo Flavio , Carelli Roberta
Published: February 2014

PURPOSE:

To assess the long-term effectiveness and safety of refractive surgery with LASIK or photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) for treating accommodative esotropia in adults.

METHODS:

All patients with accommodative esotropia treated with LASIK or PRK until December 2007 and with a minimum follow-up of 5 years were retrospectively included.

RESULTS:

LASIK was performed on 44 eyes of 22 patients (12 women, 10 men; mean age: 22.7 ± 2.9 years). Mean postoperative follow-up was 62.1 ± 3.2 months. PRK was performed on 16 eyes of 8 patients (4 women, 4 men; mean age: 23.7 ± 1.7 years). Mean postoperative follow-up was 61.3 ± 2.8 months. At the 5-year follow-up, the mean cycloplegic refraction was more hyperopic in the PRK group (0.3 ± 0.8 vs 0.06 ± 0.3 diopters,
P
= .01). Correction of esotropia to esophoria or orthotropia was present in 21 patients (95.4%) treated with LASIK and in all patients treated with PRK.

CONCLUSIONS:

Both LASIK and PRK were effective in the long-term reduction of accommodative esotropia.

[
J Refract Surg.
2014;30(2):116–120.]
Mothers with Chronic Disease: A Comparison of Parenting in Mothers with Systemic Sclerosis and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Poole Janet L. , Hare K. Sena , Turner-Montez Sabrina , Mendelson Cindy , Skipper Betty
Published: February 2014

This study compared parenting ability in mothers with systemic sclerosis (SSc) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), two chronic, autoimmune, connective tissue diseases that primarily affect women. Seventy-four mothers with SSc and 68 mothers with SLE completed self-report questionnaires on demographic characteristics, pain, fatigue, occupational performance, and parenting. Results showed that mothers with SSc were slightly older, were more educated, and had decreased occupational performance. Mothers with SLE had more pain and fatigue. There were no significant differences between mothers with SSc and SLE who had children 5 years of age and younger. However, there were significant differences between the mothers with SSc and SLE who had children aged 6 to 18 years on four items on the Parenting Disability Index: playing games with child, getting up with child during the night, keeping child out of unsafe situations, and helping child solve personal/social problems. These differences may be due to differences in the levels of pain, fatigue, and occupational performance, possibly stemming from differences in disease manifestations.
Occupational Competence Strategies in Old Age: A Mixed-Methods Comparison between Hispanic Women with Different Levels of Daily Participation
Authors: Orellano Elsa M. , Mountain Gail , Varas Nelson , Labault Nirzka
Published: February 2014

In this pilot study, we explored the difference in the use of occupational competence strategies for daily participation between more active and less active older Hispanic women. Twenty-nine women who were 70 and older and lived alone participated in this study. We used a mixed-methods design by which the principal investigator administered a tool to measure participation restrictions during the quantitative phase and conducted in-depth interviews with a subsample in the qualitative phase. More active women predominantly used transportation resources, emotional social support, and spirituality to support participation in life activities. Less active women used more practical social support, assistive technology, and environmental modifications. Personal facilitators seemed to directly modify these strategies. These results suggest that older women with different activity levels use distinct internal and external resources to maintain or enhance daily participation. Future studies should explore whether these resources remain consistent across gender, living status, and ethnicity.
Testing a Theory-Based Mobility Monitoring Protocol Using In-Home Sensors: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Reeder Blaine , Chung Jane , Lazar Amanda , Joe Jonathan , Demiris George , Thompson Hilaire J.
Published: February 2014

Mobility is a key factor in the performance of many everyday tasks required for independent living as a person ages. The purpose of this mixed-methods study was to test a theory-based mobility monitoring protocol by comparing sensor-based measures to self-report measures of mobility and assess the acceptability of in-home sensors with older adults. Standardized instruments to measure physical, psychosocial, and cognitive parameters were administered to 8 community-dwelling older adults at baseline, 3-month, and 6-month visits. Semi-structured interviews to characterize acceptability of the technology were conducted at the 3-month and 6-month visits. Technical issues prevented comparison of sensor-based measures with self-report measures. In-home sensor technology for monitoring mobility is acceptable to older adults. Implementing our theory-based mobility monitoring protocol in a field study in the homes of older adults is a feasible undertaking but requires more robust technology for sensor-based measure validation.

[Res Gerontol Nurs. 2013; 6(4):253–263.]
Nursing-Sensitive Outcome Change Scores for Hospitalized Older Adults with Heart Failure: A Preliminary Descriptive Study
Authors: Park Hyejin
Published: February 2014

Nursing has a social mandate to ensure effective practice within its domain and to be accountable for the outcomes of nursing care. Using standardized nursing terminologies makes it possible to measure aspects of nursing care. The purpose of this study was to determine whether a significant difference in outcome ratings exists from admission to discharge for hospitalized older adults with heart failure (HF) using Nursing Outcomes Classification (NOC). A retrospective descriptive research design was used. Data were obtained from 268 inpatient records of patients discharged with HF during a 1-year period. All top 10 NOC outcomes demonstrated statistically significant improvement in outcome ratings from admission to discharge. Findings from this study provide insight on the possible contribution of nursing to outcomes of hospitalized older adults with HF. Validating and incorporating nursing-sensitive outcome measures in future prospective experimental research can contribute to the advancement of science regarding effective treatment of older adults hospitalized with HF, while highlighting the contribution of nursing care to outcomes.

[Res Gerontol Nurs. 2013; 6(4):234–241.]
Gender Differences in the Relationship Between Diabetes-Specific Quality of Life and Depressive Symptoms in Middle-Aged and Older Korean Immigrants
Authors: Choi Sarah E. , Reed Preston L. , Sarkisian Catherine A.
Published: February 2014

This study examined age and gender differences in the relationship between diabetes-specific quality of life (DQOL) and depressive symptoms among Korean immigrants with type 2 diabetes. In this cross-sectional study, 160 Korean immigrants ages 40 to 80 with diabetes were assessed for depressive symptoms, DQOL, and related demographic, clinical, and psychosocial factors. The relationship between DQOL and depressive symptoms was stronger for men than women. Whereas there were no main effects of age or gender in predicting depressive symptoms, there was a significant three-way interaction between gender, age (middle-aged or older), and DQOL on depressive symptoms, with older men demonstrating the strongest positive association between DQOL and depression. Age and gender differences should be considered for DQOL and depressive symptoms in Korean immigrants with diabetes. Efforts to address DQOL may likely have the greatest impact in decreasing depressive symptoms when targeted to older male Korean immigrants.

[Res Gerontol Nurs. 2013; 6(4):283–292.]
Caregiver Psychological Health and Hospitalization Characteristics of Older Adult Care Recipients: An Integrative Review of U.S. Studies
Authors: Longacre Margaret L. , Wong Yu-Ning , Fang Carolyn Y.
Published: February 2014

This integrative review involved studies conducted in the United States that assessed hospitalizations of older adults receiving family care and the psychological health of their family caregivers. The primary objectives were to (a) summarize findings between caregiver psychological health and older care recipient hospitalizations, and (b) describe how caregiver psychological health has been measured with regard to older care recipient hospitalizations. Online databases were searched for articles assessing caregiver psychological health (e.g., burden, strain, depressive or anxious symptoms) and older care recipient hospitalizations in the United States. According to the findings, few studies in the United States have assessed hospitalization characteristics of older care recipients and the psychological health of their family caregivers. All analyses incorporated a measure of depression; however, the measurement of other psychological health constructs (e.g., anxious symptoms, perceived burden) was limited or absent. Findings note the potential importance of focusing on readmission rates in light of caregiver psychological health. Findings also note the benefit of caregiver emotional and instrumental support toward reducing hospitalizations among older adults receiving family care.

[Res Gerontol Nurs. 2014; 7(3):139–147.]
Treatment of Subretinal Fluid Associated With Dome-Shaped Macula
Authors: Chinskey Nicholas D. , Johnson Mark W.
Published: February 2014

Dome-shaped macula is a recently described disorder seen in eyes with myopic posterior staphyloma. Vision loss may accompany sub-macular fluid accumulation, for which no effective treatment has been reported. The authors report the successful treatment of two female patients, aged 34 and 59 years, with chronic exudative macular detachment associated with dome-shaped macula. Symptoms of subretinal fluid had been present for at least 2 years in each case, and the fluid was refractory to multiple intravitreal bevacizumab injections in one eye. After a single session of half-fluence verteporfin photodynamic therapy, the submacular fluid resolved completely in each eye. In one eye, recurrent submacular fluid 2 years later responded partially to repeat photodynamic therapy and completely to focal laser photocoagulation.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina.
2013;44:593–595.]
Familial Exudative Vitreoretinopathy in a Premature Child
Authors: Gologorsky Daniel , Chang Jonathan S. , Hess Ditte J. , Berrocal Audina M.
Published: February 2014

Many of the clinical features associated with familial exudative vitreoretinopathy (FEVR) overlap with those commonly found in retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Differentiating these two distinct entities may be challenging in premature infants. FEVR can be distinguished from ROP in that the former demonstrates exudates on examination and tends to recur or reactivate. The authors report the case of a premature infant diagnosed with FEVR and treated with diode laser who was subsequently lost to follow-up. Upon re-establishing care 3 years later, the patient demonstrated renewed bilateral vitreoretinopathy. This manuscript underscores the importance of accurate distinction between FEVR and ROP for the purpose of optimal patient management.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina.
2013;44:603–605.]
Management of Retained Subretinal Perfluorocarbon Liquid
Authors: Shulman Matthew , Sepah Yasir J. , Chang Stanley , Abrams Gary W. , Do Diana V. , Nguyen Quan Dong
Published: February 2014

Subretinal perfluorocarbon liquid (PFCL) is a rare but serious complication associated with retinal detachment repair primarily due to the potential for toxic effects of the liquid on various structures of the eye. While it is optimal to detect and remove subretinal PFCL intraoperatively, retained PFCL may be missed in 1% to 11% of cases and not detected until follow-up visits.
3,26
In such cases, early intervention appears to be warranted particularly if central vision remains at risk with subfoveally located droplets. Restoration of the foveal contour and attenuation of scotoma size as indicated by optical coherence tomography and microperimetry imaging suggest a good prognosis based on the limited number of case reports reviewed. Prognosis of retained PFCL depends on the location, size, and duration of its contact with retinal structures.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina.
2013;44:577–583.]
Combination Anti-VEGF and Corticosteroid Therapy for Idiopathic Retinal Vasculitis, Aneurysms, and Neuroretinitis Syndrome
Authors: Sawhney Gagan K. , Payne John F. , Ray Robin , Mehta Sonia , Bergstrom Chris S. , Yeh Steven
Published: February 2014

Vision loss associated with the idiopathic retinal vasculitis, aneurysms, and neuroretinitis (IRVAN) syndrome most commonly occurs from macular edema or complications related to neovascularization. The authors present a case of advanced IRVAN associated with a massive exudative response characterized by peripheral retinal telangiectasias, exudative retinal detachment, and macular edema with lipid maculopathy. The patient was managed successfully with visual acuity from hand motion to 20/150 using a combination of local corticosteroids, intravitreal bevacizumab, panretinal photocoagulation, and eventually pars plana vitrectomy for progressive vitreomacular traction. VEGF- and non-VEGF-mediated mechanisms appear to be involved in the pathogenesis of IRVAN given the efficacy of combination therapy.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina.
2013;44:599–602.]
Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography Appearance of a Retinal Nematode
Authors: Masudi Ali , Soheilian Masoud , Nourinia Ramin , Soheilian Rasam , Peyman Gholam A.
Published: February 2014

A 65-year-old man presented with decreased visual acuity in his left eye of 10 days’ duration. Ocular examination revealed visual acuity of 20/200 in the left eye caused by a visible retinal nematode (roundworm) located close to the fovea. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography imaging showed the nematode in the retinal nerve fiber layer. The patient was followed up without treatment, and the nematode disappeared spontaneously after 5 weeks. Visual acuity in the affected eye improved to 20/25.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina.
2013;44:E17–E19.]
Analysis of Short-Term Change in Subfoveal Choroidal Thickness in Eyes With Age-Related Macular Degeneration Using Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Fein Jordana G. , Branchini Lauren A. , Manjunath Varsha , Regatieri Caio V. , Fujimoto James G. , Duker Jay S.
Published: February 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To measure the subfoveal choroidal thickness in patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) over 6 months.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

A retrospective, observational study of patients with AMD followed up for 6 months at the New England Eye Center. Baseline and 6-month follow-up subfoveal choroidal thickness was measured using spectral-domain OCT and compared.

RESULTS:

For the entire cohort, there was statistically significant thinning of the subfoveal choroidal thickness at 6 months compared to baseline that was driven by the cohort of patients with neovascular AMD (181.2 ± 75 μm to 173.4 ± 63 μm;
P
= .049).

CONCLUSION:

There was a statistically significant decrease in subfoveal choroidal thickness observed in this cohort of patients with AMD over 6 months, but it was driven by the subgroup of patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2014;45:32–37.]
The Effect of an Intravitreal Dexamethasone Implant for Cystoid Macular Edema in Retinitis Pigmentosa: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Ahn Seong Joon , Kim Ko Eun , Woo Se Joon , Park Kyu Hyung
Published: February 2014

Intravitreal injection of a dexamethasone implant was used to treat a 24-year-old patient with retinitis pigmentosa (RP) who developed cystoid macular edema (CME) in both eyes that was refractory to oral acetazolamide and intravitreal bevacizumab treatment. After injection, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improved and central macular thickness decreased, but CME recurred in both eyes 6 months later. Although a second intravitreal dexamethasone implant injection resolved the CME and improved the BCVA, CME recurred in both eyes 6 months later. The intravitreal dexamethasone implant may be useful for CME in patients with RP, but its efficacy seems to be limited over time.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2014;45:160–164.]
Efecto de las variables de proceso sobre el comportamiento a flexión de aleaciones Ti - 3% at. X (X = Nb, Ta) obtenidas por pulvimetalurgia
Authors: Franconetti P. , Candel J. J. , Vicente A. , Amigó V.
Published: February 2014

El niobio y el tantalio se añaden al titanio para formar nuevas aleaciones beta con mayor biocompatibilidad para aplicaciones biomédicas. Ambos elementos tienen un elevado punto de fusión, por lo que su difusión en estado sólido es limitada. En este trabajo se han fabricado por pulvimetalurgia muestras de titanio con 3% atómico de niobio o tantalio. Se estudia el efecto de la presión de compactación, la temperatura y el tiempo de sinterizado sobre la resistencia, la elasticidad y la ductilidad a flexión. Los resultados muestran que ambos elementos se comportan de manera semejante: aumenta la resistencia entre 20-25%, la elasticidad entre 0-10% y la ductilidad en más de un 150%. Por tanto, la adición de estos elementos es beneficiosa para las propiedades mecánicas. El análisis estadístico muestra que el efecto de la temperatura y presión son importantes mientras que el efecto del tiempo es poco significativo e incluso perjudicial en estas aleaciones.
Modelización del proceso de degradación de envases metálicos para bebida, en el suelo, en el agua y en la interacción agua-suelo
Authors: Rieiro I. , Triviño V. , Gutiérrez T. , Muñoz J. , Larrea M. T.
Published: February 2014

En este estudio se evalúa la contaminación metálica que se produce a lo largo del tiempo al depositar en el suelo hojalata y hoja de aluminio, procedentes de envases comerciales de bebidas. Con el fin de evaluar el efecto del proceso de fabricación, se ha investigado el comportamiento del acero F111 y de la aleación de aluminio 3003, frecuentemente utilizados en la elaboración de estos envases. Para el estudio, se propone un diseño experimental que simula la degradación medioambiental a lo largo del tiempo de este tipo de envases cuando se depositan de forma incontrolada en el suelo. Los indicadores analíticos se han obtenido determinando la concentración de los metales mayoritarios en tres medios: agua, agua en presencia de suelo, y absorción-adsorción en suelo. Se ha desarrollado una metodología analítica para la determinación de la concentración de los elementos contaminantes mediante Espectrometría de Emisión Atómica con fuente de excitación ICP (ICP-OES). El método ha sido validado utilizando Materiales de Referencia (CRMs) de metales en suelo y agua; la precisión obtenida varía de 5,39 a 5,86% y de 5,75 a 6,27%, respectivamente, dependiendo del elemento analizado. El estudio estadístico llevado a cabo ha consistido en un análisis descriptivo seguido de un análisis factorial (modelo lineal general). La cuantificación metálica en los tres medios muestra que el suelo tiene un gran efecto inhibidor en la solubilidad de estos metales en agua. El proceso de fabricación de los envases para ambos materiales reduce la cesión metálica al medio.
BIO-PCI, Inyección de carbón vegetal en Altos Hornos: Estado del arte y perspectivas económicas
Authors: Feliciano-Bruzual C. , Mathews J. A.
Published: February 2014

La inyección de carbón vegetal por toberas en Altos Hornos, aqui denominada Bio-PCI, se presenta como una forma atractiva y realista de reducir significativamente las emisiones de CO2 generadas durante la producción de arrabio. En esta contribución se presenta un resumen de los fundamentos tecnológicos, los beneficios y las limitaciones de la incorporación de la tecnología del Bio-PCI. Adicionalmente se exponen los retos económicos que enfrentan los combustibles renovables a los fósiles, con especial interés en los principales costos de producción del carbón vegetal. En este sentido se plantea una pregunta estratégica: ¿puede la biomasa residual impulsar el desarrollo de la Bio-PCI?. Nuestro análisis conlleva a concluir que la utilización de biomasa residual (residuos forestales y agrícolas) puede reducir sensiblemente el costo del carbón vegetal entre 120-180 USD/t en comparación con biomasa primaria, incrementando su competitividad frente al carbón mineral.
The Transcription Factor E4BP4 Is Not Required for Extramedullary Pathways of NK Cell Development
Authors: Crotta Stefania , Gkioka Annita , Male Victoria , Duarte João H. , Davidson Sophia , Nisoli Ilaria , Brady Hugh J. M. , Wack Andreas
Published: February 2014

NK cells contribute to antitumor and antiviral immunosurveillance. Their development in the bone marrow (BM) requires the transcription factor E4BP4/NFIL3, but requirements in other organs are less well defined. In this study, we show that CD3−NK1.1+NKp46+CD122+ NK cells of immature phenotype and expressing low eomesodermin levels are found in thymus, spleen, and liver of E4BP4-deficient mice, whereas numbers of mature, eomesoderminhigh conventional NK cells are drastically reduced. E4BP4-deficient CD44+CD25− double-negative 1 thymocytes efficiently develop in vitro into NK cells with kinetics, phenotype, and functionality similar to wild-type controls, whereas no NK cells develop from E4BP4-deficient BM precursors. In E4BP4/Rag-1 double-deficient (DKO) mice, NK cells resembling those in Rag-1–deficient controls are found in similar numbers in the thymus and liver. However, NK precursors are reduced in DKO BM, and no NK cells develop from DKO BM progenitors in vitro. DKO thymocyte precursors readily develop into NK cells, but DKO BM transfers into nude recipients and NK cells in E4BP4/Rag-1/IL-7 triple-KO mice indicated thymus-independent NK cell development. In the presence of T cells or E4BP4-sufficient NK cells, DKO NK cells have a selective disadvantage, and thymic and hepatic DKO NK cells show reduced survival when adoptively transferred into lymphopenic hosts. This correlates with higher apoptosis rates and lower responsiveness to IL-15 in vitro. In conclusion, we demonstrate E4BP4-independent development of NK cells of immature phenotype, reduced fitness, short t1/2, and potential extramedullary origin. Our data identify E4BP4-independent NK cell developmental pathways and a role for E4BP4 in NK cell homeostasis.
Deposition of trace elements in the Trail region, British Columbia; an assessment of the environmental effect of a base metal smelter on land
Authors: Goodarzi F , Sanei H , Duncan W F
Published: February 2014

This study was carried out to assess the spatial deposition and accumulation of trace elements on surface soil in the Trail area, British Columbia, site of a base metal smelter. Monitoring of the deposition was performed by strategically placing twenty-two flat
moss-bags (moss-monitoring stations), in the study area and allowing them to be exposed to aerial deposition for 3-month periods over the course of the two-year study. The main goal of this research was to determine the cumulative deposition of the "settleable" portion of elements on land, the
extent of influence from the point source, and the seasonal variations in the deposition pattern. The results of this study give a better understanding of the net increase of trace elements in surface soil over a given period of time. This is important in terms of the calculation of the element
inventory of the soil and for long-term prediction of the future amounts of trace elements.
Albitisation of detrital feldspars in the Scotian Basin: implications for the thermal evolution of the basin
Authors: Pe-Piper G , Yang X
Published: February 2014

Diagenesis of K-feldspar and plagioclase are among the most significant changes occurring in sandstones during burial diagenesis. Sixteen representative samples at various depths from eight exploratory wells in the Scotian Basin were selected for detailed study
of the diagenesis of the detrital feldspars, to evaluate the roles played by sedimentary facies (which influence porosity and permeability), geographic location (controlling the type of detrital supply), burial depth, temperature and salinity as recorded by fluid inclusions, and the structural
setting of the sandstones. K-feldspar authigenesis starts at ~1900 m depth as K-feldspar overgrowths on detrital K-feldspars, or as cement that fills fractures in fractured K-feldspars, and continue to 3000 m. Albitization of Kfeldspar also starts at ~1900 m, with diagenetic albite
following weakness paths and at greater depths, K-feldspar disappears through dissolution and/or replacement by ferroan calcite ± ankerite. K-feldspars disappear between 3,800 and 4,500 m. Detrital plagioclase is either oligoclase or albite. Early patches of diagenetic albite in detrital albite
grains give way with depth to albite pseudomorphs or partially dissolved albite grains, containing large pores. Albite pseudomorphs predate late ankerite cement. Detrital oligoclase is first replaced at depths >3,700 m by diagenetic albite as overgrowths or irregular patches with straight
crystal outlines. Diagenetic albite is much more abundant in thick sandstone units than in thin sandstone beds with interbedded mudstone, probably because such sandstones were pathways for flux of basinal fluids. It is more abundant, in the same facies and depth, in the Thebaud-Glenelg fields, where
fluid inclusions in silica and carbonate cements are ~21% NaCl compared with the eastern part of the basin where fluid inclusions are ~10% NaCl and probably a little cooler. Dissolution of K-feldspar seems predominantly controlled by burial depth, but is most severe in permeable
thick sandstone units.
Implementation of the principles of primary health care in a rural area of South Africa
Authors: Visagie Surona , Schneider Marguerite
Published: February 2014

Background: The philosophy of primary healthcare forms the basis of South Africa’s health policy and provides guidance for healthcare service delivery in South Africa. Healthcare service provision in South Africa has shown improvement in the past five years. However, it is uncertain as to whether the changes have reached rural areas and if primary healthcare is implemented successfully in these areas.Objectives: The aim of this article is to explore the extent to which the principles of primary healthcare are implemented in a remote, rural setting in South Africa.Method: A descriptive, qualitative design was implemented. Data were collected through interviews and case studies with 36 purposively-sampled participants, then analysed through Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis.Results: Findings indicated challenges with regard to client-centred care, provision of health promotion and rehabilitation, the way care was organised, the role of the doctor, healthworker attitudes, referral services and the management of complex conditions.Conclusion: The principles of primary healthcare were not implemented successfully. The community was not involved in healthcare management, nor were users involved in their personal health management. The initiation of a community-health forum is recommended. Service providers, users and the community should identify and address the determinants of ill health in the community. Other recommendations include the training of service managers in the logistical management of ensuring a constant supply of drugs, using a Kombi-type vehicle to provide user transport for routine visits to secondary- and tertiary healthcareservices and increasing the doctors’ hours.
Bilateral Breast Lumps as a Presentation of Disseminated Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Lung
Authors: Dharmshaktu Pramila , Jain Ankur , Gupta Naresh , Garg Abhilasha , Kaushal Seema
Published: February 2014

We present the case of a 65-year-old female who presented to our hospital with nodular swelling in her breast that first appeared in the right upper quadrant 10 months earlier, followed by involvement of the left upper quadrant along with nodular swelling in the right inguinal region for the past six months. She was also complaining of breathlessness on exertion and right-sided pleuritic chest pain for the past one year. Her chest X-ray showed well defined consolidation in the right lower lobe of the lung with pleural effusion. Further pleural tap showed malignant cells with squamous differentiation. Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) from breast lumps was suggestive of malignant cells with morphology of cells likely to be squamous. CT-guided biopsy of the lung mass showed moderately differentiated squamous cell carcinoma of the lung. She succumbed to her illness following severe respiratory distress. Breast lump secondary to lung malignancy is very rare. Squamous cell carcinoma presenting as breast metastasis is a very rare presentation and reported in few cases. No previous case reporting bilateral breast lumps as a presentation of squamous cell carcinoma of the lung could be found in the literature.
Condensed tannins concentration of selected prairie legume forages as affected by phenological stages during two consecutive growth seasons in western Canada
Authors: Li Y. , Iwaasa A. D. , Wang Y. , Jin L. , Han G. , Zhao M.
Published: February 2014

Li, Y., Iwaasa, A. D., Wang, Y., Jin, L., Han, G. and Zhao, M. 2014. Condensed tannins concentration of selected prairie legume forages as affected by phenological stages during two consecutive growth seasons in western Canada. Can. J. Plant Sci. 94: 817–826. Studies have shown that condensed tannins (CT) at appropriate concentrations improve nutrient digestion in animals and influence ecosystem processes. However, knowledge of CT concentration in different phenological stages and different plant parts of non-conventional legumes growing in the western Canadian prairies is lacking for feed and grazing management. The research objectives were to determine the level and distribution of total CT (TCT), extractable CT (ECT) and protein-bound (PCT) or fiber-bound CT (FCT) concentrations in the whole plant of legume forages at different phenological (vegetative, flowering, seed maturity) stages and plant parts (leaves, stems, inflorescences and inflorescences+seedpods) using the Butanol-HCl procedure. Whole plant samples of purple prairie clover (Dalea purpurea Vent.), white prairie clover (D. candida Michx. ex Willd), sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia Scop.) and Canadian milkvetch (Astragalus canadensis L.) were collected in the 2011 and 2012 growing seasons from replicated small trial plots at vegetative, flowering and seed maturity stages. Species, phenological stages and their interactions all significantly affect the TCT, ECT, PCT and FCT concentrations in whole plant and plant parts (P<0.001). Concentrations of ECT and TCT increased for all species as they matured from vegetative to seed maturity, except for sainfoin where the vegetative stage had the highest ECT and TCT levels. The highest mean ECT and TCT concentrations for purple prairie clover and white prairie clover were found in the inflorescences part at flowering stage, while sainfoin had the highest ECT and TCT concentrations in the leaves at vegetative stage. There was little variation for PCT among different phenological stages in whole plant for species except for purple prairie clover and white prairie clover which had higher (P<0.05) PCT at seed maturity than at flowering stage. Only trace amounts of FCT were detected from either whole plant or different fractions of all plant species, except Canadian milkvetch. Condensed tannins were not observed in Canadian milkvetch except for trace amounts in the seed coat at seed maturity stage. The results demonstrate that legumes differ in their condensed tannin content which could potentially be used in pasture management.
Differences in compositional properties of a hulless barley cultivar grown in 23 environments in eastern Canada
Authors: Abdel-Aal El-Sayed M. , Choo Thin-Meiw
Published: February 2014

Abdel-Aal, E. M. and Choo, T.-M. 2014. Differences in compositional properties of a hulless barley cultivar grown in 23 environments in eastern Canada. Can. J. Plant Sci. 94: 807–815. Barley grains hold a promise for several applications in food, feed, energy and malting industries due to their diverse components and functionalities. The current study aimed to investigate compositional and 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH) scavenging properties of a newly developed hulless barley cultivar, AAC Azimuth. The cultivar was grown at 11 sites in 2010 and 12 sites in 2011 in Ontario and Quebec, Canada. The results showed that most of the nutrients examined in barley varied significantly among locations. In addition several components varied by year such as β-glucan, protein and phenols. There were significant year×location interactions for all of these nutrient components. The application of fungicides increased the content of moisture, but it decreased the content of phenols. The new cultivar contained relatively low amount of dietary fiber, average amount of β-glucan, and high levels of starch and protein, which could improve the feed and energy value. The cultivar also had total phenols and DPPH antioxidant capacity within the range of yellow and color barleys showing its antioxidant potential. The absence of hulls along with reasonable levels of protein, total antioxidant phenols and DPPH antioxidant capacity would promote the cultivar for food use subject to flour characteristics and functionality.
Community Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices on Schistosomiasis in Western Kenya-The SCORE Project
Authors: Musuva Rosemary M. , Awiti Alphonce , Omedo Martin , Ogutu Michael , Secor W. Evan , Montgomery Susan P. , Alaii Jane , Mwinzi Pauline N. M.
Published: February 2014

In an effort to improve intervention strategies, community knowledge, attitudes, and practices on schistosomiasis were evaluated using focus group discussions involving 237 participants, in eight Schistosoma mansoni high prevalence districts in rural Nyanza Province, Kenya. The majority of participants reported having heard about schistosomiasis through schools, posters, radio announcements, and community gatherings. Participants had a variety of beliefs about contracting schistosomiasis, including associating it with dirty drinking water and uncooked or contaminated food. Avenues for seeking treatment included health centers, spiritual intervention, herbal treatments, and medicine shops, with health centers receiving the most mention. Barriers to schistosomiasis control included attitudes of community members toward the infection, especially misconceptions that lead to stigma and the perception that diagnosis and treatment are expensive. Schools were the most common avenue for receiving information, suggesting that the existing education infrastructure can be used for health education and improved sensitization about schistosomiasis control programs.
Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy in ENT Practice: How Worth is It?
Authors: Kumar MC Anup , Karanam Lavanya
Published: February 2014

Objective

The need for upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy in the evaluation of hoarseness.

Study design

Prospective study, conducted during the period from June 2012 to February 2013.

Setting

Tertiary referral center.

Results

A total of 125 patients were selected for the study and they were evaluated with appropriate history and clinical examination. Out of 125 patients, 41 (32.8%) patients showed laryngeal findings leading to hoarseness, 13 (10.4%) patients showed features of suspected malignancy in other adjacent regions which was confirmed later, two (1.6%) patients showed phonetic gap and 69 (55.2%) patients showed normal laryngeal inlet on indirect laryngoscopy examination. Of the 69 normal patients which were treated conservatively and since they did not show any response they were subjected to upper GI endoscopy. Out of 69 patients, 41 (60%) patients showed features of gastritis, 28 (40%) patients showed features of duodenitis.

Conclusion

It is estimated that more than 50% of patients presenting to the ENT OPD for hoarseness are because of GI problems. We strongly advise upper GI endoscopy for the symptomatic otorhinolaryngological patients with a normal laryngeal finding on indirect laryngoscopy for treating the condition accurately or near accurately. Adding to this upper GI endoscopy has the additional advantages of documentation and medicolegal aspect in the present day scenario.

How to cite this article

Santosh UP, Kumar MCA, Karanam L. Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy in ENT Practice: How Worth is It? Int J Phonosurg Laryngol 2013;3(2):35-38.
Management of Laryngotracheal Stenosis by Laryngoplasty
Authors: Murthy GSN , Kumar M Veera , Bhimeshwar R , Chanukya S Udaya
Published: February 2014

This is a prospective study done on six cases of laryngotracheal stenosis. They were operated by laryngoplasty with mucoperichondrial grafting stenting (temporary and permanent).

The purpose of the study was to determine the role of laryngoplasty in the treatment of acquired subglottic stenosis.

In this study, six patients who presented to the Government General Hospital from March 2011 to April 2012, with subglottic stenosis were enrolled. The details of their etiology, time period with endotracheal intubation, duration between extubation and onset of symptoms, treatment and postoperative recovery on follow-up were recorded and analyzed. It was found that laryngoplasty with cartilage grafting along with T-tube or Dumonts silicone stent placement carries good success rate, with no recurrence.

How to cite this article

Murthy GSN, Bhimeswar R, Kumar MV, Murthy PSN, Chanukya SU. Management of Laryngotracheal Stenosis by Laryngoplasty. Int J Phonosurg Laryngol 2013;3(2):46-50.
On the presence of equatorial waves in the lower stratosphere of a general circulation model
Authors: Maury P. , Lott F.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. To challenge the hypothesis that equatorial waves in the lower stratosphere are essentially forced by convection, we use the LMDz atmospheric model extended to the stratosphere and compare two versions having very different convection schemes but no quasi-biennial oscillation (QBO). The two versions have realistic time mean precipitation climatologies but very different precipitation variabilities. Despite these differences, the equatorial stratospheric Kelvin waves at 50 hPa are almost identical in the two versions and quite realistic. The Rossby gravity waves are also very similar but significantly weaker than in observations. We demonstrate that this bias on the Rossby gravity waves is essentially due to a dynamical filtering occurring because the model zonal wind is systematically westward. During a westward phase of the QBO, the ERA-Interim Rossby gravity waves compare well with those in the model. These results suggest that (i) in the model the effect of the convection scheme on the waves is in part hidden by the dynamical filtering, and (ii) the waves are produced by other sources than equatorial convection. For the Kelvin waves, this last point is illustrated by an Eliassen and Palm flux analysis, showing that in the model they come more from the subtropics and mid-latitude regions, whereas in the ERA-Interim reanalysis the sources are more equatorial. We show that non-equatorial sources are also significant in reanalysis data sets as they explain the presence of the Rossby gravity waves in the stratosphere. To illustrate this point, we identify situations with large Rossby gravity waves in the reanalysis middle stratosphere for dates selected when the stratosphere is dynamically separated from the equatorial troposphere. We refer to this process as a stratospheric reloading.
Black carbon emissions from in-use ships: a California regional assessment
Authors: Buffaloe G. M. , Lack D. A. , Williams E. J. , Coffman D. , Hayden K. L. , Lerner B. M. , Li S.-M. , Nuaaman I. , Massoli P. , Onasch T. B. , Quinn P. K. , Cappa C. D.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. Black carbon (BC) mass emission factors (EFBC; g BC (kg fuel)−1) from a variety of ocean-going vessels have been determined from measurements of BC and carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations in ship plumes intercepted by the R/V Atlantis during the 2010 California Nexus (CalNex) campaign. The ships encountered were all operating within 24 nautical miles of the California coast and were utilizing relatively low sulphur fuels (average fuel sulphur content of 0.4%, 0.09% and 0.03% for vessels operating slow-speed, medium-speed and high-speed diesel engines, respectively). Black carbon concentrations within the plumes, from which EFBC values are determined, were measured using four independent instruments: a photoacoustic spectrometer and a particle soot absorption photometer, which measure light absorption, and a single particle soot photometer and soot particle aerosol mass spectrometer, which measure the mass concentration of refractory BC directly. These measurements have been used to assess the level of agreement between these different techniques for the determination of BC emission factors from ship plumes. Also, these measurements greatly expand upon the number of individual ships for which BC emission factors have been determined during real-world operation. The measured EFBC's have been divided into vessel type categories and engine type categories, from which averages have been determined. The geometric average EFBC (excluding outliers) determined from over 71 vessels and 135 plumes encountered was 0.31 ± 0.31 g BC (kg fuel)−1, where the standard deviation represents the variability between individual vessels. The most frequent engine type encountered was the slow-speed diesel (SSD), and the most frequent SSD vessel type was the cargo ship sub-category. Average and median EFBC values from the SSD category are compared with previous observations from the Texas Air Quality Study (TexAQS) in 2006, during which the ships encountered were predominately operating on high-sulphur fuels (average fuel sulphur content of 1.6%). There is a statistically significant difference between the EFBC values from CalNex and TexAQS for SSD vessels and for the cargo and tanker ship types within this engine category. The CalNex EFBC values are lower than those from TexAQS, suggesting that operation on lower sulphur fuels is associated with smaller EFBC values.