bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A pre-calibration approach to select optimum inputs for hydrological models in data-scarce regions
Authors: Tarawneh Esraa , Bridge Jonathan , Macdonald Neil 
Published: October 2016

Abstract. This study uses the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model to quantitatively compare available input datasets in a data-poor dryland environment (Wala catchment, Jordan; 1743 km2). Eighteen scenarios combining best available land-use, soil and weather datasets (1979–2002) are considered to construct SWAT models. Data include local observations and global reanalysis data products. Uncalibrated model outputs assess the variability in model performance derived from input data sources only. Model performance against discharge and sediment load data are compared using r2, Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE), root mean square error standard deviation ratio (RSR) and percent bias (PBIAS). NSE statistic varies from 0.56 to −12 and 0.79 to −85 for best- and poorest-performing scenarios against observed discharge and sediment data respectively. Global weather inputs yield considerable improvements on discontinuous local datasets, whilst local soil inputs perform considerably better than global-scale mapping. The methodology provides a rapid, transparent and transferable approach to aid selection of the most robust suite of input data.
High-resolution shear-wave seismic reflection as a tool to image near-surface subrosion structures – a case study in Bad Frankenhausen, Germany
Authors: Wadas Sonja H. , Polom Ulrich , Krawczyk Charlotte M. 
Published: October 2016

Abstract. Subrosion is the subsurface leaching of soluble rocks that results in the formation of depression and collapse structures. This global phenomenon is a geohazard in urban areas. To study near-surface subrosion structures, four shear-wave seismic reflection profiles, with a total length of ca. 332 m, were carried out around the famous leaning church tower of Bad Frankenhausen in northern Thuringia, Germany, which shows an inclination of 4.93° from the vertical. Most of the geological underground of Thuringia is characterized by soluble Permian deposits, and the Kyffhäuser Southern Margin Fault is assumed to be a main pathway for water to leach the evaporite. The seismic profiles were acquired with the horizontal micro-vibrator ELVIS, developed at Leibniz Institute for Applied Geophysics (LIAG), and a 72 m long landstreamer equipped with 72 horizontal geophones. The high-resolution seismic sections show subrosion-induced structures to a depth of ca. 100 m and reveal five features associated with the leaching of Permian deposits: (1) lateral and vertical varying reflection patterns caused by strongly heterogeneous strata, (2) discontinuous reflectors, small offsets, and faults, which show the underground is heavily fractured, (3) formation of depression structures in the near-surface, (4) diffractions in the unmigrated seismic sections that indicate increased scattering of the seismic waves, and (5) varying seismic velocities and low-velocity zones that are presumably caused by fractures and upward-migrating cavities. A previously undiscovered southward-dipping listric normal fault was also found, to the north of the church. It probably serves as a pathway for water to leach the Permian formations below the church and causes the tilting of the church tower. This case study shows the potential of horizontal shear-wave seismic reflection to image near-surface subrosion structures in an urban environment with a horizontal resolution of less than 1 m in the uppermost 10–15 m.
The Geographical Spreading of Banks in Jordan and Its Reflection on Economic Development: An Analytical Study for the Period 2014-2016
Authors: Abu-shkeerah Malek Mnary , Dagarah Arij Zaied , Almeri Mohammad Odeh , Saleh Mousa Mohammad 
Published: October 2016

This study aims at pointing out and the Geographical Spreading of Banks in Jordan and its Reflection on Economic Development An Analytical Study For The Period 2014-2016 , the study specify the target society, which represent all the existing banks in used the following approaches to analyze the data in this research, which are historical, descriptive analytical, and comparative methods. Technically, the studies used excel application to generate and extract graphs, and GIS technology to draw maps. The study found that banks spatially distributed unfairly between the provinces of Jordan, The study also showed that banks did not adopt clear criteria in branching and spreading of ATMs, except the Bank of Jordan.The study recommended directing the attention of researchers towards performing depth researches dealing with the consequences of banking concentration in specific provinces on the evolution and development of these provinces, and studying the concentration reflection in certain locations on the profitability of banks, and the number of customers in them.
One-Year Results of Aflibercept in Vascularized Pigment Epithelium Detachment due to Neovascular AMD: A Prospective Study
Authors: Veritti Daniele , Sarao Valentina , Parravano Mariacristina , Arias Luis , Varano Monica , Lanzetta Paolo 
Published: October 2016

Purpose To evaluate individualized intravitreal aflibercept regimens for treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD)-related pigment epithelial detachment (PED). Methods This prospective, multicenter, nonrandomized study included 32 eyes with nAMD-related PED, treated with ranibizumab for ≥6 months. All patients received intravitreal aflibercept (2 mg/0.05 mL) at baseline (no loading phase) and subsequently treated pro re nata with monthly follow-up for 12 months. Outcome measures included visual acuity, central retinal thickness (CRT), PED height and area, and neovascular network size. Results At 12 months, aflibercept improved mean best-corrected visual acuity compared with baseline values (p>0.05); 50% of patients displayed complete resolution of intraretinal and/or subretinal fluid. Compared with baseline, significant decreases were observed for mean CRT and PED height (both p<0.01). Conclusions Aflibercept appears to induce anatomical improvement for at least 12 months after conversion from ranibizumab in patients experiencing nAMD-related PED. Significant reductions in both mean PED height and CRT were observed, although these changes were not necessarily related to significantly improved visual acuity scores. However, larger patient cohorts are required to extend and validate our results, and increased study duration would allow exploration of the potential long-term benefits and challenges of prolonged aflibercept use.
What is the Natural History of Asymptomatic Pseudotumours in Metal-on-Metal Hip Resurfacing Patients?
Authors: Matharu Gulraj S. , Ostlere Simon J. , Pandit Hemant G. , Murray David W. 
Published: October 2016

Purpose We assessed the natural history of asymptomatic pseudotumours associated with metal-on-metal hip resurfacings (MoMHRs), and factors associated with future revision. Methods In 2007-2008, we identified 25 MoMHRs (21 patients; mean age 59.9 years; 76% female) with asymptomatic pseudotumours. All patients underwent identical initial assessment (ultrasound, blood metal ions, radiographs, Oxford Hip Score [OHS]) and were considered asymptomatic because they denied experiencing hip symptoms, were satisfied with their MoMHR surgery, and had good or excellent OHSs (≥34). In 2012-2013, repeat assessments were performed in all non-revised patients. Results Revision for pseudotumour was performed/recommended in 15 MoMHRs (60%) at a mean 2.7 years (range 0.4-6.4 years) from initial assessment, with 14 developing symptoms before revision. Non-revised MoMHRs (n = 10) underwent repeat ultrasound at a mean 5.1 years (range 4.0-6.5 years) later, with no changes in pseudotumour volume (p = 0.956) or OHS (p = 0.065) between assessments. High blood cobalt (p = 0.0048) and chromium (p = 0.0162), large pseudotumours (p = 0.0458), low OHS (p = 0.0183), and bilateral MoMHRs (p = 0.049) predicted future revision. Patients with blood metal ions above established unilateral/bilateral thresholds and/or initial pseudotumours >30 cm3 had an 86.7% sensitivity, 70.0% specificity, 81.2% positive predictive value, and 77.8% negative predictive value for future revision. Conclusions MoMHR patients with initially asymptomatic pseudotumours often become symptomatic and require revision. Patients with high blood metal ions and/or pseudotumours >30 cm3 should remain under annual surveillance or be considered for revision (especially in patients also having lower initial OHSs, bilateral MoMHRs, and/or those becoming symptomatic). Less regular surveillance of patients outside these parameters appears acceptable.
Comparison of Femoral Head Translation following Eccentric Rotational Acetabular Osteotomy and Rotational Acetabular Osteotomy
Authors: Irie Tohru , Takahashi Daisuke , Asano Tsuyoshi , Arai Ryuta , Konno Takuya , Onodera Tomohiro , Kondo Eiji , Iwasaki Norimasa 
Published: October 2016

Purpose Eccentric rotational acetabular osteotomy (ERAO) is a modification of rotational acetabular osteotomy (RAO); it has been reported that ERAO allows the femoral head to translate medially and distally. However, no study has compared femoral head translation following RAO or ERAO. The purpose of this study was to compare immediate postoperative translation of the femoral head after RAO and ERAO in comparison with the pre-operative position by radiological methods. Methods Patients treated by RAO or ERAO between 2006 and 2014 were retrospectively evaluated. 19 hips (17 patients) were treated with RAO, and 25 hips (22 patients) were treated with ERAO. The acetabular roof angle and the location of the femoral head were measured on anteroposterior pelvic radiographs. Results The mean pre-operative acetabular roof angle was 20.9° in the RAO group and 22.0° in the ERAO group, showing no significant difference. The mean acetabular roof angle immediately postoperatively was −0.5° in the RAO group and −0.4° in the ERAO group, again showing no significant difference. The mean femoral head translation immediately postoperatively was 3.1 mm (95% confidence interval (CI), 1.5-4.7 mm) laterally and 3.0 mm (95% CI, 1.3-4.7 mm) proximally in the RAO group and 0.8 mm (95% CI, −0.7-2.3 mm) medially and 2.8 mm (95% CI, 1.5-4.1 mm) distally in the ERAO group; this difference was very highly significant (p≤0.001). Conclusions In contrast with RAO, ERAO resulted in significant femoral head translation both medially and distally immediately postoperatively.
3rd Generation Alumina-on-Alumina in Modular Hip Prosthesis: 13 to 18 Years Follow-up Results
Authors: Toni Aldo , Giardina Federico , Guerra Giovanni , Sudanese Alessandra , Montalti Maurizio , Stea Susanna , Bordini Barbara 
Published: October 2016

Introduction Ceramic-on-ceramic (CoC) couplings are alternative bearings surfaces that have been reported to reduce osteolysis, wear debris and aseptic loosening compared to the use of polyethylene. Early experiences with ceramics had poor results, but they have led to many improvements in the manufacture and design of subsequent implants. Methods We analysed medical files of 300 CoC total hip arthroplasty (THA) with a modular neck performed during period 1995-2000 by a single surgeon for a minimum follow-up of 13 years, evaluating clinical and radiological outcome. Results The mean clinical Merle d'Aubigne and Postel hip score at the final follow-up is 17.4, against a pre-operative value of 11.4. Overall survivorship with an endpoint of revision is 93.2% (95% CI, 89.0%-97.3%) at 15 years, while considering only prosthesis failures related to aseptic loosening and ceramic breakage, survival rate at 15 years is 97.2% (95% CI, 94.8%-100%). We observed complications that led to revision surgery in 11 patients (4%) (periprosthetic fractures, liner ruptures, septic loosening of the implant, aseptic loosening of the cup, aseptic loosening of the stem). The occurrence of squeaking is low (1.6%, 4 cases) and we analysed the characteristics of these patients. Discussion Our study shows an excellent long term survivorship of third generation alumina CoC THA. We reiterate the importance to have a stable implant to maximise the advantage of ceramic and to avoid complications.
Are all Dialyzers Compatible with the Convective Volumes Suggested for Postdilution Online Hemodiafiltration?
Authors: Potier Jacky , Queffeulou Guillaume , Bouet Julien 
Published: October 2016

Introduction The recent analysis of 4 randomized controlled trials has confirmed the lower mortality risk for postdilution online hemodiafiltration (OL-HDF) compared to hemodialysis, and above all for patients with the highest delivered body surface area standardized convective volume (CV/BSA >23 L/1.73 m2/session). Since the impact of the dialyzers used in these trials has never been studied, we retrospectively analyzed clinical tests carried out with 19 commonly used dialyzers. The aim was to provide information on their performances and behavior to aid in an objective choice for therapies associated with OL-HDF. Methods “Efficiency” was evaluated by measuring the reduction ratio of beta-2 microglobulin (RRß2M) and myoglobin (RRmyo) for a CV/BSA between 0 and 30 L, extrapolating them at CV/BSA = 23 L “Safety” was defined by the safe CV (CVsafe), corresponding to the CV/BSA above which albumin loss is >5 g/session. Results: With CV/BSA = 23 L, all the dialyzers ensure an optimal ß2M extraction (RRß2M: 76%–84.5%). For myoglobin, efficiency disparities are bigger (RRmyo: 40%–85%). Above all, 4/19 dialyzers lose more than 5 g albumin and should not be used under these conditions. Conclusions It is recommended to prescribe dialyzers that are above all safe. Moreover, if one considers that the removal of middle molecule solutes prevails over the CV necessary for their transmembrane transport, some dialyzers that are more efficient with CV/BSA <23 L than others with CV/BSA >= 23 L might then be prescribed when the conditions do not permit the suggested CV/BSA goal to be achieved.
Analyzing 37,900 Samples Shows Significant Association between Hotair Polymorphisms and Cancer Susceptibility: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ge Yating , Jiang Runze , Zhang Meng , Wang Hao , Zhang Li , Tang Jia , Liang Chaozhao 
Published: October 2016

Background and objective An increasing number of investigations are drawing attention to the relationship between polymorphisms in the HOTAIR gene and the risk of cancers, but the results obtained so far have been controversial and inconclusive. We performed an up-to-date meta-analysis to obtain a more precise estimate of the possible associations. Methods Crude odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to evaluate the strength of the associations. Results Nine publications including 26 case-control studies comprising 37,900 individuals were enrolled for the 5 polymorphisms in HOTAIR. The overall analyses identified a significant association between the rs920778 polymorphism and increased susceptibility to cancer in homozygous and recessive models. We conducted a stratification analysis by cancer type and identified a significantly increased susceptibility to esophageal squamous cell carcinoma in all the genetic models and to gastric cancer in the dominant model. For the rs7958904 polymorphism we detected a significantly decreased susceptibility to overall cancer in all 5 genetic models rather than the heterogeneous model. However, no significant association was identified between the rs874945, rs4759314 and rs1899663 polymorphisms and cancer susceptibility. Conclusions Our results demonstrate that the HOTAIR rs920778 polymorphism may represent a risk factor for cancer, whereas the rs7958904 polymorphism may play a protective role.
Meta-Analysis Reveals no Significant Association between ERCC6 Polymorphisms and Bladder Cancer Risk
Authors: Hong Zhengdong , Wu Jinxian , Li Qiang , Zhang Shouhua , Shi Zimin 
Published: October 2016

Background Numerous studies have been conducted to evaluate the association between excision repair cross-complementing group 6 (ERCC6) gene polymorphisms and bladder cancer risk, but their findings have been inconsistent. Here we performed a meta-analysis to attempt to clarify this association. Methods Studies were retrieved from the PubMed and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases up to October 1, 2015, with strict selection and exclusion criteria. A total of 5,032 samples, comprising samples from 2,475 bladder cancer patients and 2,557 controls from 5 studies, were included in the meta-analysis. The odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was used to evaluate the strength of the associations. Results Regarding the Met1097Val polymorphism, no significant association with bladder cancer risk was found in any of the genetic models evaluated (Val vs. Met: OR = 1.10, 95% CI, 0.97-1.25; Val/Val vs. Met/Met: OR = 1.23, 95% CI, 0.86-1.75; Val/Val + Val/Met vs. Met/Met: OR = 1.12, 95% CI, 0.96-1.30; Val/Val vs. Met/Met + Val/Met: OR = 0.81, 95% CI, 0.57-1.14). Similarly, as regards the Arg1230Pro polymorphism, we also found no positive results. Conclusions According to the results of our meta-analysis, there is no evidence of a link between the ERCC6 gene polymorphisms and bladder cancer risk. Well-designed further studies, with larger sample sizes and adjustment for confounders such as smoking status, are needed to confirm these conclusions.
The use of Hormone Therapy after Surgery for Endometriosis: An Analysis
Authors: Lobo Roger A. , Franco Quaresma de Moura Katia 
Published: October 2016

Introduction Estrogen dependence is considered central to the development and progression of endometriosis, which is often viewed as a disease of the premenopausal years, normally regressing after menopause. However, there have been several reports of postmenopausal endometriosis occurring with and without the use of hormone therapy (HT). Objective This review aimed to answer the question of whether it is prudent to offer HT for women with a past history of surgical endometriosis. What are the risks? What type of HT should be given? Methods A review of the medical literature available in Pubmed, EMBASE, Google scholar, Lilacs, Medline and Cochrane Library databases was performed by selecting articles published in the last ten years, written in any language. The keywords used were endometriosis, menopause, and hormone therapy. In all, 36 articles were found from 2006 to 2016, and their potential relevance to this review was examined. We found 20 literature reviews, 2 retrospective studies, 2 randomized controlled trials and 12 case reports. Results There is some risk of endometriosis recurrence after the menopause in patients who receive HT; particularly with estrogen-only therapy. Conclusions The existing literature is inadequate to firmly answer our questions. However it is clear that some risk of recurrence exists. Nevertheless, it is suggested that it is reasonable to prescribe HT to women with a history of surgical endometriosis. Recurrences may occur even in the absence of using HT. It is suggested that in women with severe disease the use of estrogen plus progestogen is safer than estrogen alone. Malignant transformation may occur 1% of the time and may be of greater concern with using estrogen alone, warranting close surveillance in all women.
Femorally inserted central venous catheter in patients with superior vena cava obstruction: choice of the optimal exit site
Authors: Zhang Jinghui , Tang Siyuan , Hu Chengping , Zhang Cailan , He Lianxiang , Li Xuebing , Xiao Jinnan 
Published: October 2016

Purpose This study assessed patient comfort and catheter indwelling time and decreased incidence of complications in patients with femorally inserted venous catheters (FIVCs) via different exit sites. Methods A group of 114 patients suffering from lung cancer complicated by superior vena cava obstruction (SVCO) underwent femoral insertion of venous catheters to facilitate chemotherapy infusion. Patients were divided into two groups: a novel (NOV) group (n = 59) with the FIVC exit site at the mid-thigh and a conventional (CON) group (n = 55) with the exit site at the groin. The clinical efficacy and safety were compared. Results There were significant differences (p<0.001) between NOV and CON groups in bleeding scores (2.44 ± 0.62 vs. 1.36 ± 0.49), catheter indwelling time (195.08 ± 39.19 days vs. 91.53 ± 32.88 days), patient comfort scores (4.20 ± 0.87 vs. 1.35 ± 0.91), and pain scores (1.64 ± 0.91 vs. 2.42 ± 1.08). Significant differences (p<0.05) were also observed in catheter-associated thrombosis (1.69% vs. 14.55%), catheter exit site infection (1.69% vs. 21.82%), and the incidence of total complications (11.86% vs. 45.45%) between the NOV and CON groups. However, the differences in success rates between the NOV and CON groups during the first attempt (98.32% vs. 98.18%) and catheter obstruction (8.48% vs. 9.09%) were not significant (p>0.05). Conclusions Compared with the conventional exit site at the groin, the exit site at the mid-thigh for FIVCs increased patients’ comfort and catheter indwelling time, and decreased the rate of complication and pain scores. However, it did not decrease the success rate in SVCO patients.
Assessing Radiocephalic Wrist Arteriovenous Fistulas of Obtuse Anastomosis using Computational Fluid Dynamics and Clinical Application
Authors: Lee Jinkee , Kim Sunho , Kim Sung-Min , Song Ryungeun , Kim Hyun Kyu , Park Jang Sang , Park Sun Cheol 
Published: October 2016

Introduction A radiocephalic arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is the best choice for achieving vascular access (VA) for hemodialysis, but this AVF has high rates of early failure due to juxta-anastomotic stenosis, making it impossible to use for dialysis. Low hemodynamic shear stress contributes to the pathophysiology of VA failure due to secondary thrombosis, stenosis, and re-occlusion after percutaneous intervention. Methods We used a computational fluid dynamics (CFDs) approach to evaluate the shear stress distribution and minimize its effects under various conditions including changes in the anastomosis angle. A three-dimensional computational domain was designed for arteriovenous end-to-side anastomosis based on anastomosis angles of 45°, 90° and including 135° angle of an obtuse anastomosis using three-dimensional design software. COMSOL Multiphysics® simulation software was used to identify the hemodynamic factors influencing wall shear stress at the anastomosis site using a low Reynolds number k-ε turbulence model that included non-Newtonian blood flow characteristics, the complete cardiac pulse cycle, and distention of blood vessels. In preliminary clinical study, all 201 patients who received a radiocephalic wrist AVF from January 2009 to February 2014 were divided into classic and obtuse angle groups. Results The CFD results showed that the largest anastomosis angle (135°) resulted in lower shear stress, which would help reduce AVF failures. This obtuse angle was preferred, as it minimized the development of anastomotic stenosis and tended to favor primary and primary-assisted patency in clinical study. Conclusions An obtuse radiocephalic wrist AVF shows more favorable patency compared to a classic radiocephalic AVF. Surgeons establishing a radiocephalic wrist AVF would be better to consider an AVF with an obtuse anastomosis.