Sample records for t9 sagittal offset

  1. The use of the T1 sagittal angle in predicting overall sagittal balance of the spine.

    PubMed

    Knott, Patrick T; Mardjetko, Steven M; Techy, Fernando

    2010-11-01

    A balanced sagittal alignment of the spine has been shown to strongly correlate with less pain, less disability, and greater health status scores. To restore proper sagittal balance, one must assess the position of the occiput relative to the sacrum. The assessment of spinal balance preoperatively can be challenging, whereas predicting postoperative balance is even more difficult. This study was designed to evaluate and quantify multiple factors that influence sagittal balance. Retrospective analysis of existing spinal radiographs. A retrospective review of 52 adult spine patient records was performed. All patients had full-column digital radiographs that showed all the important skeletal landmarks necessary for accurate measurement. The average age of the patient was 53 years. Both genders were equally represented. The radiographs were measured using standard techniques to obtain the following parameters: scoliosis in the coronal plane; lordosis or kyphosis of the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine; the T1 sagittal angle (angle between a horizontal line and the superior end plate of T1); the angle of the dens in the sagittal plane; the angle of the dens in relation to the occiput; the sacral slope; the pelvic incidence; the femoral-sacral angle; and finally, the sagittal vertical axis (SVA) measured from both the dens of C2 and from C7. It was found that the SVA when measured from the dens was on average 16 mm farther forward than the SVA measured from C7 (p<.0001). The dens plumb line (SVA(dens)) was then used in the study. An analysis was done to examine the relationship between SVA(dens) and each of the other measurements. The T1 sagittal angle was found to have a moderate positive correlation (r=0.65) with SVA(dens), p<.0001, indicating that the amount of sagittal T1 tilt can be used as a good predictor of overall sagittal balance. When examining the other variables, it was found that cervical lordosis had a weak correlation (r=0.37) with SVA(dens) that was

  2. 45 CFR 708.9 - Coordinating offset with another Federal agency.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 3 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Coordinating offset with another Federal agency. 708.9 Section 708.9 Public Welfare Regulations Relating to Public Welfare (Continued) COMMISSION ON CIVIL RIGHTS COLLECTION BY SALARY OFFSET FROM INDEBTED CURRENT AND FORMER EMPLOYEES § 708.9 Coordinating...

  3. Influence of intentional femoral component flexion in navigated TKA on gap balance and sagittal anatomy.

    PubMed

    Roßkopf, J; Singh, P K; Wolf, P; Strauch, M; Graichen, H

    2014-03-01

    Navigation has proven its ability to accurately restore coronal leg axis; however, for a good clinical outcome, other factors such as sagittal anatomy and balanced gaps are at least as important. In a gap-balanced technique, the size of the flexion gap is equalled to that of the extension gap. Flexion of the femoral component has been described as a theoretical possibility to balance flexion and extension gap. Aim of this study was to assess whether intentional femoral component flexion is helpful in balancing TKA gaps and in restoring sagittal anatomy. One hundred and thirty-one patients with TKA were included in this study. Implantation was performed in a navigated, gap-balanced, tibia-first technique. The femoral component flexion needed to equal flexion to extension gap was calculated based upon the navigation data. The sagittal diameter, the anterior and posterior offset were measured pre- and postoperatively based on the lateral radiographs. Medial and lateral gaps in extension and flexion as well as flexion/extension gap differences pre- and postoperatively were analysed. Additionally range of motion (ROM) and patient satisfaction (SF 12) were obtained. To achieve equal flexion and extension gap, the femoral component was flexed in 120 out of 131 patients showing mean flexion of 2.9° (SD 2.2°; navigation data) and 3.1° (SD 2.0°; radiological analysis), respectively. Based on this technique, it was possible to balance the extension gap (<2 mm difference) in 130 out of 131 patients (99%) and the flexion gap in 119 out of 131 (91%). The difference between extension and flexion gap was reduced from 39 to 24 out of 131 patients (81%) on the medial side and from 69 to 28 on the lateral side (79%). The sagittal diameter was restored in 114 out of 131 cases (87%); however, anterior offset was significantly reduced by 1.3 mm (SD 3.9°), and posterior offset was significantly increased by 1.6 mm (SD 3.3°). No correlation between any navigation and radiological

  4. Standardized way for imaging of the sagittal spinal balance.

    PubMed

    Morvan, Gérard; Mathieu, Philippe; Vuillemin, Valérie; Guerini, Henri; Bossard, Philippe; Zeitoun, Frédéric; Wybier, Marc

    2011-09-01

    Nowadays, conventional or digitalized teleradiography remains the most commonly used tool for the study of the sagittal balance, sometimes with secondary digitalization. The irradiation given by this technique is important and the photographic results are often poor. Some radiographic tables allow the realization of digitalized spinal radiographs by simultaneous translation of X-ray tube and receptor. EOS system is a new, very low dose system which gives good quality images, permits a simultaneous acquisition of upright frontal and sagittal views, is able to cover in the same time the spine and the lower limbs and study the axial plane on 3D envelope reconstructions. In the future, this low dose system should take a great place in the study of the pelvispinal balance. On the lateral view, several pelvic (incidence, pelvic tilt, sacral slope) and spinal (lumbar lordosis, thoracic kyphosis, Th9 sagittal offset, C7 plumb line) parameters are drawn to define the pelvispinal balance. All are interdependent. Pelvic incidence is an individual anatomic characteristic that corresponds to the "thickness" of the pelvis and governs the spinal balance. Pelvis and spine, in a harmonious whole, can be compared to an accordion, more or less compressed or stretched.

  5. Postural Consequences of Cervical Sagittal Imbalance: A Novel Laboratory Model.

    PubMed

    Patwardhan, Avinash G; Havey, Robert M; Khayatzadeh, Saeed; Muriuki, Muturi G; Voronov, Leonard I; Carandang, Gerard; Nguyen, Ngoc-Lam; Ghanayem, Alexander J; Schuit, Dale; Patel, Alpesh A; Smith, Zachary A; Sears, William

    2015-06-01

    A biomechanical study using human spine specimens. To study postural compensations in lordosis angles that are necessary to maintain horizontal gaze in the presence of forward head posture and increasing T1 sagittal tilt. Forward head posture relative to the shoulders, assessed radiographically using the horizontal offset distance between the C2 and C7 vertebral bodies (C2-C7 [sagittal vertical alignment] SVA), is a measure of global cervical imbalance. This may result from kyphotic alignment of cervical segments, muscle imbalance, as well as malalignment of thoracolumbar spine. Ten cadaveric cervical spines (occiput-T1) were tested. The T1 vertebra was anchored to a tilting and translating base. The occiput was free to move vertically but its angular orientation was constrained to ensure horizontal gaze regardless of sagittal imbalance. A 5-kg mass was attached to the occiput to mimic head weight. Forward head posture magnitude and T1 tilt were varied and motions of individual vertebrae were measured to calculate C2-C7 SVA and lordosis across C0-C2 and C2-C7. Increasing C2-C7 SVA caused flexion of lower cervical (C2-C7) segments and hyperextension of suboccipital (C0-C1-C2) segments to maintain horizontal gaze. Increasing kyphotic T1 tilt primarily increased lordosis across the C2-C7 segments. Regression models were developed to predict the compensatory C0-C2 and C2-C7 angulation needed to maintain horizontal gaze given values of C2-C7 SVA and T1 tilt. This study established predictive relationships between radiographical measures of forward head posture, T1 tilt, and postural compensations in the cervical lordosis angles needed to maintain horizontal gaze. The laboratory model predicted that normalization of C2-C7 SVA will reduce suboccipital (C0-C2) hyperextension, whereas T1 tilt reduction will reduce the hyperextension in the C2-C7 segments. The predictive relationships may help in planning corrective strategy in patients experiencing neck pain, which may be

  6. Effect of DC Offset on the T-Wave Residuum Parameter

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Scott, N.; Greco, E. C.; Schlegel, Todd T.

    2006-01-01

    The T-wave residuum (TWR) is a relatively new 12-lead ECG parameter that may reflect cardiac repolarization heterogeneity. TWR shows clinical promise and may become an important diagnostic tool if accurate, consistent, and convenient methods for its calculation can be developed. However, there are discrepancies between the methods that various investigators have used to calculate TWR, as well as some questions about basic methodology and assumptions that require resolution. The presence of a DC offset or very low frequency AC component to the ECG is often observed. Many researchers have attempted to compensate for these by high pass filters and by median beat techniques. These techniques may help minimize the contribution of a low frequency AC component to the TWR, but they will not eliminate a DC offset inherent within the instrumentation. The present study examined the presence of DC offsets in the ECG record, and their effect on TWR. Specifically, in healthy individuals, a DC offset was added to all 8 channels collectively or to each channel selectively. Even with offsets that were relatively small compared to T-wave amplitude, the addition of either collectively or individually applied offsets was observed to produce very significant changes in the TWR, affecting its value by as much as an order of magnitude. These DC offsets may arise from at least two possible sources: a transient artifact from EMG or electrode movement resulting in a transient baseline offset in one or more channels. Since highpass filters have a settling time of several seconds, these artifacts will contribute to a transitory baseline offset lasting 1020 cycles. The machine hardware may also introduce an offset. Regardless of the cause or source of a DC offset, this study demonstrates that offsets have a very significant impact on TWR, and that future studies must not ignore their presence, but rather more appropriately compensate for them.

  7. Analysis of sagittal spinopelvic parameters in achondroplasia.

    PubMed

    Hong, Jae-Young; Suh, Seung-Woo; Modi, Hitesh N; Park, Jong-Woong; Park, Jung-Ho

    2011-08-15

    Prospective radiological analysis of patients with achondroplasia. To analyze sagittal spinal alignment and pelvic orientation in achondroplasia patients. Knowledge of sagittal spinopelvic parameters is important for the treatment of achondroplasia, because they differ from those of the normal population and can induce pain. The study and control groups were composed of 32 achondroplasia patients and 24 healthy volunteers, respectively. All underwent lateral radiography of the whole spine including hip joints. The radiographic parameters examined were sacral slope (SS), pelvic tilt, pelvic incidence (PI), S1 overhang, thoracic kyphosis, T10-L2 kyphosis, lumbar lordosis (LL1, LL2), and sagittal balance. Statistical analysis was performed to identify significant differences between the two groups. In addition, correlations between parameters and symptoms were sought. Sagittal spinopelvic parameters, namely, pelvic tilt, pelvic incidence, S1 overhang, thoracic kyphosis, T10-L2 kyphosis, lumbar lordosis 1 and sagittal balance were found to be significantly different in the patient and control groups (P < 0.05). In addition, sagittal parameters were found to be related to each other in the patient group (P < 0.05), that is, PI was related to SS and pelvic tilt, and LL was related to thoracic kyphosis. Furthermore, in terms of relations between spinal and pelvic parameters, LL was related to SS and PI, and sagittal balance was related to SS and PI. Furthermore, LL and T10-L2 kyphosis were found to be related to pain (P < 0.05), whereas no other parameter was found to be related to VAS scores. Sagittal parameters and possible relationships between sagittal parameters and symptoms were found to be significantly different in achondroplasia patients and normal healthy controls. The present study shows that sagittal spinal and pelvic parameters can assist the treatment of spinal disorders in achondroplasia patients.

  8. Chronic low back pain after lumbosacral fracture due to sagittal and frontal vertebral imbalance.

    PubMed

    Boyoud-Garnier, L; Boudissa, M; Ruatti, S; Kerschbaumer, G; Grobost, P; Tonetti, J

    2017-06-01

    Over time, some patients with unilateral or bilateral lumbosacral injuries experience chronic low back pain. We studied the sagittal and frontal balance in a population with these injuries to determine whether mismatch in the pelvic and lumbar angles are associated with chronic low back pain. Patients with posterior pelvic ring fractures (Tile C1, C2, C3 and A3.3) that had healed were included. Foreign patients and those with an associated spinal or acetabular fracture or nonunion were excluded. The review consisted of subjective questionnaires, a clinical examination, and standing A/P and lateral stereoradiographic views. The pelvic tilt (PT), sacral slope (SS), pelvic incidence (PI), measured lumbar lordosis (LLm), T9 sagittal offset, leg discrepancy (LD) and lateral curvature (LC). The expected lumbar lordosis (LLe) was calculated using the formula LLe=PI+9°. We defined lumbopelvic mismatch (LPM) as the difference between LLm and LLe being equal or greater than 25% of LLe. Fifteen patients were reviewed after an average follow-up of 8.8 years [5.4-15]. There were four Tile C1, five Tile C2, five Tile C3 and one Tile A3.3 fracture. Ten of the 15 patients had low back pain. The mean angles were: LLm 49.6° and LLe 71.9° (P=0.002), PT 21.3°, SS 44.1°, PI 62.9° in patients with low back pain and LLm 57.4° and LLe 63.2° (P=0.55), PT 13°, SS 43.1°, PI 54.2° in those without. LPM was present in 9 patients, 8 of who had low back pain (P=0.02). Six patients, all of whom had low back pain, had a mean LC of 7.5° [4.5-23] (P=0.02). The mean LD was 0.77cm. The findings of this small study suggest that patients who experience low back pain after their posterior arch of the pelvic ring fracture has healed, have a lumbopelvic mismatch. Early treatment of these patients should aim to reestablish the anatomy of the pelvic base relative to the frontal and sagittal balance. IV. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  9. Evaluation of T2-weighted versus short-tau inversion recovery sagittal sequences in the identification and localization of canine intervertebral disc extrusion with low-field magnetic resonance imaging.

    PubMed

    Housley, Daniel; Caine, Abby; Cherubini, Giunio; Taeymans, Olivier

    2017-07-01

    Sagittal T2-weighted sequences (T2-SAG) are the foundation of spinal protocols when screening for the presence of intervertebral disc extrusion. We often utilize sagittal short-tau inversion recovery sequences (STIR-SAG) as an adjunctive screening series, and experience suggests that this combined approach provides superior detection rates. We hypothesized that STIR-SAG would provide higher sensitivity than T2-SAG in the identification and localization of intervertebral disc extrusion. We further hypothesized that the parallel evaluation of paired T2-SAG and STIR-SAG series would provide a higher sensitivity than could be achieved with either independent sagittal series when viewed in isolation. This retrospective diagnostic accuracy study blindly reviewed T2-SAG and STIR-SAG sequences from dogs (n = 110) with surgically confirmed intervertebral disc extrusion. A consensus between two radiologists found no significant difference in sensitivity between T2-SAG and STIR-SAG during the identification of intervertebral disc extrusion (T2-SAG: 92.7%, STIR-SAG: 94.5%, P = 0.752). Nevertheless, STIR-SAG accurately identified intervertebral disc extrusion in 66.7% of cases where the evaluation of T2-SAG in isolation had provided a false negative diagnosis. Additionally, one radiologist found that the parallel evaluation of paired T2-SAG and STIR-SAG series provided a significantly higher sensitivity than T2-SAG in isolation, during the identification of intervertebral disc extrusion (T2-SAG: 78.2%, paired T2-SAG, and STIR-SAG: 90.9%, P = 0.017). A similar nonsignificant trend was observed when the consensus of both radiologists was taken into consideration (T2-SAG: 92.7%, paired T2-SAG, and STIR-SAG = 97.3%, P = 0.392). We therefore conclude that STIR-SAG is capable of identifying intervertebral disc extrusion that is inconspicuous in T2-SAG, and that STIR-SAG should be considered a useful adjunctive sequence during preliminary sagittal screening for intervertebral disc

  10. Standing sagittal alignment of the whole axial skeleton with reference to the gravity line in humans.

    PubMed

    Hasegawa, Kazuhiro; Okamoto, Masashi; Hatsushikano, Shun; Shimoda, Haruka; Ono, Masatoshi; Homma, Takao; Watanabe, Kei

    2017-05-01

    Human beings stand upright with the chain of balance beginning at the feet, progressing to the lower limbs (ankles, knees, hip joints, pelvis), each of the spinal segments, and then ending at the cranium to achieve horizontal gaze and balance using minimum muscle activity. The details of the alignment and balance of the chain, however, are not clearly understood, due to the lack of information regarding the three-dimensional (3D) orientation of all bony elements in relation to the gravity line (GL). We performed a clinical study to clarify the standing sagittal alignment of whole axial skeletons in reference to the GL using the EOS slot-scanning 3D X-ray imaging system with simultaneous force plate measurement in a healthy human population. The GL was defined as a vertical line drawn through the centre of vertical pressure measured by the force plate. The present study yielded a complete set of physiological alignment measurements of the standing axial skeleton from the database of 136 healthy subjects (a mean age of 39.7 years, 20-69 years; men: 40, women: 96). The mean offset of centre of the acoustic meati from the GL was 0.0 cm. The offset of the cervical and thoracic vertebrae was posterior to the GL with the apex of thoracic kyphosis at T7, 5.0 cm posterior to the GL. The sagittal alignment changed to lordosis at the level of L2. The apex of the lumbar lordosis was L4, 0.6 cm anterior to the GL, and the centre of the base of the sacrum (CBS) was just posterior to the GL. The hip axis (HA) was 1.4 cm anterior to the GL. The knee joint was 2.4 cm posterior and the ankle joint was 4.8 cm posterior to the GL. L4-, L5- and the CBS-offset in subjects in the age decades of 40s, 50s and 60s were significantly posterior to those of subjects in their 20s. The L5- and CBS-offset in subjects in their 50s and 60s were also significantly posterior to those in subjects in their 30s. HA was never posterior to the GL. In the global alignment, there was a positive correlation

  11. Differences in male and female spino-pelvic alignment in asymptomatic young adults: a three-dimensional analysis using upright low-dose digital biplanar X-rays.

    PubMed

    Janssen, Michiel M A; Drevelle, Xavier; Humbert, Ludovic; Skalli, Wafa; Castelein, René M

    2009-11-01

    A three-dimensional analysis of spino-pelvic alignment in 60 asymptomatic young adult males and females. To analyze the differences in sagittal spino-pelvic alignment in a group of asymptomatic young adult males and females and describe gender specific reference values. Several spinal disorders like idiopathic scoliosis and Scheuermann's disease have a well-known sex-related prevalence ratio. As spino-pelvic alignment plays an important role in spinal biomechanics, it is imperative to analyze possible differences between the male and female spino-pelvic alignment. Furthermore, in spinal fusion surgery, normal sagittal balance should be recreated as closely as possible. An innovative biplanar ultra low-dose radiographic technique was used to obtain three-dimensional reconstructions of the spine (T1-L5), sacrum, and pelvis in a freestanding position of 30 asymptomatic young male and 30 young female adults. Values were calculated for thoracic kyphosis (T4-T12), lumbar lordosis (L1-S1), total and regional lumbopelvic lordosis (PRT12, PRL2, PRL4, and PRL5), sagittal plumb line of T1, T4, and T9 (HAT1, HAT4, and HAT9), T1-L5 sagittal spinal inclination, T9 sagittal offset, and pelvic parameters (pelvic tilt, sacral slope, and pelvic incidence). In addition, vertebral inclination in the sagittal plane of each vertebra was measured. Differences in spino-pelvic alignment between the sexes were analyzed. The female spine was more dorsally inclined (11 degrees vs. 8 degrees ; P = 0.003). High thoracic and thoracolumbar vertebrae were more dorsally inclined in women than in men. Thoracic kyphosis, lumbar lordosis, regional lumbopelvic lordosis, sagittal plumb lines, T9 sagittal offset, and pelvic parameters were not statistically different between the sexes. These results indicate that the female spine is definitely different from the male spine. The spine as whole and individual vertebrae in certain regions of the normal spine is more backwardly inclined in females than in

  12. Sagittal Balance in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

    PubMed Central

    Xu, Xi-Ming; Wang, Fei; Zhou, Xiao-Yi; Liu, Zi-Xuan; Wei, Xian-Zhao; Bai, Yu-Shu; Li, Ming

    2015-01-01

    Abstract The relationship between spinal sagittal alignment and pelvic parameters is well known in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. However, few studies have reported the sagittal spinopelvic relationship after selective posterior fusion of thoracolumbar/lumbar (TL/L) curves. We evaluated the relationship between spinal sagittal alignment and the pelvis, and analyzed how the pelvic sagittal state is adjusted in Lenke type 5C patients. We conducted a retrospective study of 36 patients with Lenke type 5C curves who received selective posterior TL/L curve fusion. Coronal and spinopelvic sagittal parameters were pre and postoperatively compared. Pearson coefficients were used to analyze the correlation between all spinopelvic sagittal parameters before and after surgery. We also evaluated 3 pelvic morphologies (anteverted, normal, and retroverted) before and after surgery. Preoperatively, the mean pelvic incidence was 46.0°, with a pelvic tilt and sacral slope (SS) of 8.2° and 37.8°, respectively, and 25% (9/36) of patients had an anteverted pelvis, whereas the other 75% had a normal pelvis. Postoperatively, 42% (15/36) of patients had a retroverted pelvis, 53% (19/36) had a normal pelvis, and 2 patients had an anteverted pelvis. Logistic regression analyses yielded 2 factors that were significantly associated with the risk for a postoperative unrecovered anteverted pelvis, including increased lumbar lordosis (LL) (odds ratio [OR] 4.8, P = 0.029) and increased SS (OR 5.6, P = 0.018). Four factors were significantly associated with the risk of a postoperative newly anteverted pelvis, including LL at the final follow-up (OR 6.9, P = 0.009), increased LL (OR 8.9, P = 0.003), LL below fusion (OR 9.4, P = 0.002), and increased SS (OR 11.5, P = 0.001). The pelvic state may be adjusted after selective posterior TL/L curve fusion in Lenke 5C adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients. It is difficult to improve an anteverted pelvis in patients who have

  13. Variations of cervical lordosis and head alignment after pedicle subtraction osteotomy surgery for sagittal imbalance.

    PubMed

    Cecchinato, R; Langella, F; Bassani, R; Sansone, V; Lamartina, C; Berjano, P

    2014-10-01

    The variations of the cervical lordosis after correction of sagittal imbalance have been poorly studied. The aim of our study is to verify whether the cervical lordosis changes after surgery for sagittal imbalance. Thirty-nine patients were included in the study. Cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine, pelvic and lower-limb sagittal parameters were recorded. The cranial alignment was measured by the newly described Cranial Slope. The global cervical kyphosis (preop -43°, postop -31.5°) and the upper (preop -24.1°, postop -20.2°) and lower cervical kyphosis (preop -18.1°, postop -9.2°) were significantly reduced after surgical realignment of the trunk. A positive linear correlation was observed between the changes in T1 slope and the lower cervical lordosis, and between T1 slope and the global cervical alignment. The cervical lordosis is reduced by surgical correction of malalignment of the trunk, suggesting an adaptive role to maintain the head's neutral position.

  14. Spinal sagittal imbalance in patients with lumbar disc herniation: its spinopelvic characteristics, strength changes of the spinal musculature and natural history after lumbar discectomy.

    PubMed

    Liang, Chen; Sun, Jianmin; Cui, Xingang; Jiang, Zhensong; Zhang, Wen; Li, Tao

    2016-07-22

    Spinal sagittal imbalance is a widely acknowledged problem, but there is insufficient knowledge regarding its occurrence. In some patients with lumbar disc herniation (LDH), their symptom is similar to spinal sagittal imbalance. The aim of this study is to illustrate the spinopelvic sagittal characteristics and identity the role of spinal musculature in the mechanism of sagittal imbalance in patients with LDH. Twenty-five adults with spinal sagittal imbalance who initially came to our clinic for treatment of LDH, followed by posterior discectomy were reviewed. The horizontal distance between C7 plumb line-sagittal vertical axis (C7PL-SVA) greater than 5 cm anteriorly with forward bending posture is considered as spinal sagittal imbalance. Radiographic parameters including thoracic kyphotic angle (TK), lumbar lordotic angle (LL), pelvic tilting angle (PT), sacral slope angle (SS) and an electromyography(EMG) index 'the largest recruitment order' were recorded and compared. All patients restored coronal and sagittal balance immediately after lumbar discectomy. The mean C7PL-SVA and trunk shift value decreased from (11.6 ± 6.6 cm, and 2.9 ± 6.1 cm) preoperatively to (-0.5 ± 2.6 cm and 0.2 ± 0.5 cm) postoperatively, while preoperative LL and SS increased from (25.3° ± 14.0° and 25.6° ± 9.5°) to (42.4° ± 10.2° and 30.4° ± 8.7°) after surgery (P < 0.05). The preoperative mean TK and PT (24.7° ± 11.3° and 20.7° ± 7.8°) decreased to (22.0° ± 9.8° and 15.8 ± 5.5°) postoperatively (P < 0.05). The largest recruitment order on the level of T7-T8, T12-L1 and the herniated level all improved compared with before and after surgery (P < 0.05). All patients have been followed up for more than 2 years. The mean ODI was 77.8 % before surgery to 4.2 % at the final follow-up. Spinal sagittal imbalance caused by LDH is one type of compensatory sagittal imbalance. Compensatory mechanism of

  15. Noninvasive Optoelectronic Assessment of Induced Sagittal Imbalance Using the Vicon System.

    PubMed

    Ould-Slimane, Mourad; Latrobe, Charles; Michelin, Paul; Chastan, Nathalie; Dujardin, Franck; Roussignol, Xavier; Gauthé, Rémi

    2017-06-01

    Spinal diseases often induce gait disorders with multifactorial origins such as lumbar pain, radicular pain, neurologic complications, or spinal deformities. However, radiography does not permit an analysis of spinal dynamics; therefore, sagittal balance dynamics during gait remain largely unexplored. This prospective and controlled pilot study assessed the Vicon system for detecting sagittal spinopelvic imbalance, to determine the correlations between optoelectronic and radiographic parameters. Reversible anterior sagittal imbalance was induced in 24 healthy men using a thoracolumbar corset. Radiographic, optoelectronic, and comparative analyses were conducted. Corset wearing induced significant variations in radiographic parameters indicative of imbalance; the mean C7-tilt and d/D ratio increased by 15° ± 7.4° and 359%, respectively, whereas the mean spinosacral angle decreased by 16.8° ± 8° (all P < 0.001). The Vicon system detected the imbalance; the mean spinal angle increased by 15.4° ± 5.6° (P < 0.01), the mean floor projection of the C7S1 vector (C7'S1') increased by 126.3 ± 51.9 mm (P < 0.001), and the mean C7-T10-S1 angle decreased by 9.8° ± 3° (P < 0.001). Variations in C7'S1' were significantly correlated with d/D ratio (ρ = 0.58; P < 0.05) and C7-tilt (ρ = 0.636; P < 0.05) variations. Corset wearing induced radiographically confirmed anterior sagittal imbalance detected using the Vicon system. Optoelectronic C7'S1' correlated with radiographic C7-tilt and d/D ratio. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  16. The path of the superior sagittal sinus in unicoronal synostosis.

    PubMed

    Russell, Aaron J; Patel, Kamlesh B; Skolnick, Gary; Woo, Albert S; Smyth, Matthew D

    2014-10-01

    This study investigates the anatomic relationship between the superior sagittal sinus (SSS) and the sagittal suture in infants with uncorrected unicoronal synostosis. The morphology of the SSS is also evaluated postoperatively to assess whether normalization of intracranial structures occurs following reconstruction. The study sample consisted of 20 computed tomography scans (10 preoperative, 6 postoperative, and 4 unaffected controls) obtained between 2001 and 2013. The SSS and the sagittal suture were outlined using Analyze imaging software. These data were used to measure the maximum lateral discrepancy between the SSS and the sagittal suture preoperatively and to assess for postoperative changes in the morphology of the SSS. In children with uncorrected unicoronal synostosis, the SSS deviates to the side of the patent coronal suture posteriorly and tends to follow the path of the sagittal and metopic sutures. The lateral discrepancy between the SSS and the sagittal suture ranged from 5.0 to 11.8 mm, with a 99.9 % upper prediction bound of 14.4 mm. Postoperatively, the curvature of the SSS was statistically decreased following surgical intervention, though it remained significantly greater than in unaffected controls. The SSS follows a predictable course relative to surface landmarks in children with unicoronal synostosis. When creating burr holes for craniotomies, the SSS can be avoided in 99.9 % of cases by remaining at least 14.4 mm from the lateral edge of the sagittal suture. Postoperative changes in the path of the SSS provide indirect evidence for normalization of regional brain morphology following fronto-orbital advancement.

  17. Investigation of sagittal image acquisition for 4D-MRI with body area as respiratory surrogate.

    PubMed

    Liu, Yilin; Yin, Fang-Fang; Chang, Zheng; Czito, Brian G; Palta, Manisha; Bashir, Mustafa R; Qin, Yujiao; Cai, Jing

    2014-10-01

    The authors have recently developed a novel 4D-MRI technique for imaging organ respiratory motion employing cine acquisition in the axial plane and using body area (BA) as a respiratory surrogate. A potential disadvantage associated with axial image acquisition is the space-dependent phase shift in the superior-inferior (SI) direction, i.e., different axial slice positions reach the respiratory peak at different respiratory phases. Since respiratory motion occurs mostly in the SI and anterior-posterior (AP) directions, sagittal image acquisition, which embeds motion information in these two directions, is expected to be more robust and less affected by phase-shift than axial image acquisition. This study aims to develop and evaluate a 4D-MRI technique using sagittal image acquisition. The authors evaluated axial BA and sagittal BA using both 4D-CT images (11 cancer patients) and cine MR images (6 healthy volunteers and 1 cancer patient) by comparing their corresponding space-dependent phase-shift in the SI direction (δSPS (SI)) and in the lateral direction (δSPS (LAT)), respectively. To evaluate sagittal BA 4D-MRI method, a motion phantom study and a digital phantom study were performed. Additionally, six patients who had cancer(s) in the liver were prospectively enrolled in this study. For each patient, multislice sagittal MR images were acquired for 4D-MRI reconstruction. 4D retrospective sorting was performed based on respiratory phases. Single-slice cine MRI was also acquired in the axial, coronal, and sagittal planes across the tumor center from which tumor motion trajectories in the SI, AP, and medial-lateral (ML) directions were extracted and used as references from comparison. All MR images were acquired in a 1.5 T scanner using a steady-state precession sequence (frame rate ∼ 3 frames/s). 4D-CT scans showed that δSPS (SI) was significantly greater than δSPS (LAT) (p-value: 0.012); the median phase-shift was 16.9% and 7.7%, respectively. Body surface

  18. Walking sagittal balance correction by pedicle subtraction osteotomy in adults with fixed sagittal imbalance.

    PubMed

    Yagi, Mitsuru; Kaneko, Shinjiro; Yato, Yoshiyuki; Asazuma, Takashi; Machida, Masafumi

    2016-08-01

    Pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO) is widely used to treat severe fixed sagittal imbalance. However, the effect of PSO on balance has not been fully documented. The aim of this study was to assess dynamic walking balance after PSO to treat fixed sagittal imbalance. Gait and balance were assessed in 15 consecutive adult female patients who had been treated by PSO for a fixed sagittal imbalance and compare patients' preop and postop dynamic walking balance with that of 15 age- and gender-matched healthy volunteers (HV). Each patient's chart, X-rays, pre and postop SRS22 outcome scores, and ODI were reviewed. Means were compared by Mann-Whitney U test and Chi-square test. The mean age was 66.3 years (51-74 years). The mean follow-up was 2.7 years (2-3.5 years). The C7PL and GL, measured on the force platform, were both improved from 24.2 ± 7.3 cm and 27.6 ± 9.4 to 5.4 ± 2.6 cm and 7.2 ± 3.4 cm, respectively. The baseline hip ROM was significantly smaller in patients compared to HV, whereas no significant difference was observed in the knee or ankle ROM. The pelvic tilt (preop -0.4° ± 1.4°, postop 8.9° ± 1.0°), and maximum hip-extension angle (preop -1.2° ± 14.2°, postop -11.2° ± 7.2°) were also improved after surgery. Cadence (116 s/min), stance-swing ratio (stance 63.2 % vs. swing 36.8 %), and stride (98.0 cm) were all increased after surgery. On the other hand, gait velocity was significantly slower in the PSO group at both pre and postop than in HV (PSO 53.3 m/min at preop and 58.8 m/min at postop vs. HV 71.1 m/min, p = 0.04). Despite a mild residual spinal-pelvic malalignment, PSO restored sagittal alignment and balance satisfactorily and has improved the gait pattern.

  19. Sagittal and transversal plane deformity in thoracic scoliosis.

    PubMed

    Kotwicki, Tomasz

    2002-01-01

    The aim of the study was to assess the sagittal and transversal plane deformity of the spine in thoracic scoliosis by the mean of 3-D radiographic analysis. 46 patients admitted for surgery for thoracic idiopathic scoliosis underwent preoperative radiographic assessment. All patients presented the same pattern of the coronal plane deformity: single right thoracic curve (Lenke 1, King 3). Neither lumbar nor proximal thoracic structural curve were present. The Cobb angle varied from 41gamma to 77 gamma (mean 55,4 gamma +/- 8,6 gamma). Long cassette standing antero-posterior and lateral radiographs were analysed. Three-dimensional reconstruction with Rachis 91TM software was performed for each pair of radiographs. The following parameters were assessed: sagittal thoracic Cobb angle (Th4-Th12), upper thoracic kyphosis angle (Th5-Th8), lower thoracic kyphosis angle (Th9-Th12), superior and inferior hemi-curve sagittal angles, lumbar lordosis, sacral slope, sacral incidence, vertebral plate index, segmental vertebral axial rotation throughout the thoracic and lumbar spine. Results showed great variability of parameters assessed. The non-harmonious distribution of kyphosis was demonstrated in the thoracic spine. Local Th9-Th12 hypokyphosis and adjacent local Th5-Th8 hyperkyphosis constitute the most typical sagittal pathologies. So called normokyphotic curves were composed of one hyperkyphotic and one hypokyphotic zone. Th1-Th4 segment revealed two patterns of segmental rotation distribution: a purely compensatory curve with no vertebral axial rotation or a rotated curve presenting the morphology intermediate between Lenke 1 and Lenke 2 types (or King 3 and King 5). curves presenting the same coronal plane deformity differ in their morphology assessed in the two other planes; global thoracic kyphosis angle is a misleading parameter because it covers hypo- and hyperkyphotic zones; local distal thoracic (Th9-Th12) hypokyphosis is present in idiopathic thoracic scoliosis.

  20. A genome-wide association study identifies susceptibility loci for non-syndromic sagittal craniosynostosis near BMP2 and within BBS9

    PubMed Central

    Justice, Cristina M.; Yagnik, Garima; Kim, Yoonhee; Peter, Inga; Jabs, Ethylin Wang; Erazo, Monica; Ye, Xiaoqian; Ainehsazan, Edmond; Shi, Lisong; Cunningham, Michael L.; Kimonis, Virginia; Roscioli, Tony; Wall, Steven A.; Wilkie, Andrew O.M.; Stoler, Joan; Richtsmeier, Joan T.; Heuzé, Yann; Sanchez-Lara, Pedro A.; Buckley, Michael F.; Druschel, Charlotte M.; Mills, James L.; Caggana, Michele; Romitti, Paul A.; Kay, Denise M.; Senders, Craig; Taub, Peter J.; Klein, Ophir D.; Boggan, James; Zwienenberg-Lee, Marike; Naydenov, Cyril; Kim, Jinoh; Wilson, Alexander F.; Boyadjiev, Simeon A.

    2013-01-01

    Sagittal craniosynostosis is the most common form of craniosynostosis, affecting approximately one of 5,000 newborns. We conducted the first genome-wide association study (GWAS) for non-syndromic sagittal craniosynostosis (sNSC) using 130 non-Hispanic white (NHW) case-parent trios. Robust associations were observed in a 120 kb region downstream of BMP2, flanked by rs1884302 (P = 1.13 × 10−14; odds ratio [OR] = 4.58) and rs6140226 (P = 3.40 × 10−11; OR = 0.24) and within a 167 kb region of BBS9 between rs10262453 (P = 1.61 × 10−10; OR=0.19) and rs17724206 (P = 1.50 × 10−8; OR = 0.22). We replicated the associations to both loci [rs1884302 (P = 4.39 × 10−31); rs10262453 (P = 3.50 × 10−14)] in an independent NHW population of 172 unrelated sNSC probands and 548 controls. Both BMP2 and BBS9 are genes with a role in skeletal development warranting functional studies to further understand the etiology of sNSC. PMID:23160099

  1. Treatment and post-treatment effects of functional therapy on the sagittal pharyngeal dimensions in Class II subjects.

    PubMed

    Pavoni, Chiara; Cretella Lombardo, Elisabetta; Franchi, Lorenzo; Lione, Roberta; Cozza, Paola

    2017-10-01

    To evaluate the craniofacial changes induced by functional appliances with special regard to the oro and nasopharyngeal sagittal airway dimensions in subjects with dentoskeletal Class II malocclusions when compared with an untreated Class II control group immediately after therapy and at long-term observation. A group of 40 patients (21 females and 19 males) with Class II malocclusion treated consecutively either with a Bionator or an Activator followed by fixed appliances was compared with a matched control group of 31 subjects (16 females and 15 males) with untreated Class II malocclusion. The treated sample was evaluated at T1, start of treatment (mean age: 9.9 ± 1.4 years); T2, end of functional treatment and prior to fixed appliances (mean age: 11.9 ± 1.3 years); and T3, long-term observation at the end of growth (mean age: 18.2 ± 2.1 years). Statistical comparisons were performed with independent sample t tests at T1 (baseline characteristics) and for the T1-T2, T2-T3, and T1-T3 changes. During active treatment the treated group showed a significant increment in lower airway dimension (PNS-AD1), as well as a significant improvement in the upper airway dimension (PNS-AD2). A significant decrease in the upper adenoid size (AD2-H) was also found. In the longterm evaluation, a significant increase in both lower and upper airway thickness (PNS-AD1; PNS-AD2) and a significant decrease in the upper adenoid thickness were still present in the treated group. The treatment with functional appliances produced significant favorable changes during active treatment in the oro- and nasopharyngeal sagittal airway dimensions in dentoskeletal Class II subjects when compared with untreated controls, and these changes were stable in the long-term. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  2. Sagittal plane analysis of selective posterior thoracic spinal fusion in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a comparison study of all pedicle screw and hybrid instrumentation.

    PubMed

    Liu, Tie; Hai, Yong

    2014-07-01

    To compare sagittal profiles of selective posterior thoracic instrumentation with segmental pedicle screws instrumentation and hybrid (hook and pedicle screw). Nowadays, thoracic screws are considered more effective than other constructs in spinal deformity correction and have become the treatment in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis surgery. However, recent research found that this enhanced correction ability may sacrifice sagittal balance. As lumbar lordosis is dependent upon thoracic kyphosis (TK), it has been important to maintain TK magnitude in selective thoracic fusions to keep balance. There is no sagittal measurement analysis between the hybrid and all-screw constructs type in cases of selective thoracic fusion. All adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (Lenke1) patients surgically treated in our department between 2003 and 2008 were reviewed. Radiographs of these patients, whose preoperative, immediately postoperative, and minimum 2-year follow-up after selective thoracic fusion (lower instrumented vertebrae not lower than L1, hybrid group the pedicle screw instrumentation not higher than T10) were evaluated, 21 patients underwent posterior hybrid instrumentation and 21 underwent pedicle screw instrumentation. No significant difference in sagittal profiles was observed between the 2 groups. At final follow-up, the proximal junctional measurement has a minor increase in both the groups. TK (T5-T12) also increased (+2.0 degrees of increase in hybrid group vs. +3.9 degrees of increase in the pedicle screw group). The effect of different instrumentation in changing TK at various time points between 2 groups was statistic different (P=0.004). Lumbar lordosis (L1-L5) was increased in both the groups. No significant changes in distal junctional measurement and thoracolumbar junction were noted. The C7 sagittal plumbline remained negative in both the groups at the final follow-up. There was no statistically significant difference comparing the sagittal alignment

  3. Reconstruction of Thoracic Spine Using a Personalized 3D-Printed Vertebral Body in Adolescent with T9 Primary Bone Tumor.

    PubMed

    Choy, Wen Jie; Mobbs, Ralph J; Wilcox, Ben; Phan, Steven; Phan, Kevin; Sutterlin, Chester E

    2017-09-01

    Neurosurgery and spine surgery have the potential to benefit from the use of 3-dimensional printing (3DP) technology due to complex anatomic considerations and the delicate nature of surrounding structures. We report a procedure that uses a 3D-printed titanium T9 vertebral body implant post T9 vertebrectomy for a primary bone tumor. A 14-year-old female presented with progressive kyphoscoliosis and a pathologic fracture of the T9 vertebra with sagittal and coronal deformity due to a destructive primary bone tumor. Surgical resection and reconstruction was performed in combination with a 3D-printed, patient-specific implant. Custom design features included porous titanium end plates, corrective angulation of the implant to restore sagittal balance, and pedicle screw holes in the 3D implant to assist with insertion of the device. In addition, attachment of the anterior column construct to the posterior pedicle screw construct was possible due to the customized features of the patient-specific implant. An advantage of 3DP is the ability to manufacture patient-specific implants, as in the current case example. Additionally, the use of 3DP has been able to reduce operative time significantly. Surgical procedures can be preplanned using 3DP patient-specific models. Surgeons can train before performing complex procedures, which enhances their presurgical planning in order to maximize patient outcomes. When considering implants and prostheses, the use of 3DP allows a superior anatomic fit for the patient, with the potential to improve restoration of anatomy. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  4. Is arch form influenced by sagittal molar relationship or Bolton tooth-size discrepancy?

    PubMed

    Aldrees, Abdullah M; Al-Shujaa, Abdulmajeed M; Alqahtani, Mohammad A; Aljhani, Ali S

    2015-06-26

    Orthodontic patients show high prevalence of tooth-size discrepancy. This study investigates the possible association between arch form, clinically significant tooth-size discrepancy, and sagittal molar relationship. Pretreatment orthodontic casts of 230 Saudi patients were classified into one of three arch form types (tapered, ovoid, and square) using digitally scanned images of the mandibular arches. Bolton ratio was calculated, sagittal molar relationship was defined according to Angle classification, and correlations were analyzed using ANOVA, chi-square, and t-tests. No single arch form was significantly more common than the others. Furthermore, no association was observed between the presence of significant Bolton discrepancy and the sagittal molar relationship or arch form. Overall Bolton discrepancy is significantly more prevalent in males. Arch form in a Saudi patient group is independent of gender, sagittal molar relationship, and Bolton discrepancy.

  5. Sagittal balance and idiopathic scoliosis: does final sagittal alignment influence outcomes, degeneration rate or failure rate?

    PubMed

    Ilharreborde, Brice

    2018-02-01

    In the last decade, spine surgeons have been impacted by the "sagittal plane analysis revolution". Significant correlations have been found in adult spinal deformity (ASD) between sagittal lumbo-pelvic parameters and functional outcomes, but most of them do not apply in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Meanwhile, instrumentation and reduction strategies have considerably evolved. This paper aims to describe the preoperative sagittal alignment in AIS, and to report literature evidence regarding the influence of postoperative sagittal balance on complication rates, low back pain incidence and disc degeneration. A bibliographic search in Medline and Google database from 1984 to May 2017 was performed. The keywords included 'adolescent idiopathic scoliosis', 'adult scoliosis', 'sagittal alignment', 'proximal junctional kyphosis', 'distal junctional kyphosis', 'outcomes', 'low back pain' and 'complication', used individually or in combination. Algorithms of sagittal balance analysis and treatment decision have been reported in ASD, but the clinical situation is very different in children. Sagittal alignment greatly varies in AIS among the various Lenke types. Most patients are clinically balanced before surgery, but the spinal harmony is altered, with overgrowth of the anterior column and global sagittal flattening (undersestimated in 2D). The exact role of pelvic incidence and whether or not patients also use pelvic compensation to maintain balance still require further clarification. The incidence of radiological junctional failures remains highly variable, depending on definitions, cohort size and follow-up. Preoperative hyperkyphosis seems to be a consistent and relevant risk factor. Current literature does not support the recent trend to save motion segments (selective fusion), and no significant association was found between the distal level of fusion and the incidence of low back pain. Postoperative sagittal alignment seems to be more important than LIV

  6. Possible correlations between gamma-ray burst and its host galaxy offset

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Fei-Fei; Zou, Yuan-Chuan; Liu, Yu; Liao, Bin; Moharana, Reetanjali

    2018-06-01

    We collected the information of 304 gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) from the literature, and analyzed the correlations among the host galaxy offsets (the distance from the site of the GRB to the center of its host galaxy), T90,i (the duration T90 in rest-frame), TR45,i (the duration TR45 in rest-frame), Eγ,iso (the isotropic equivalent energy), Lγ,iso (=Eγ,iso /T90,i, the isotropic equivalent luminosity) and Lpk (peak luminosity). We found that T90,i, TR45,i, Eγ,iso, Lpk have negative correlation with offset, which is consistent with origin of short GRBs (SGRBs) and long GRBs (LGRBs). On separate analysis, we found similar results for log ⁡Eγ,iso - log ⁡ (offset) and log ⁡Lpk - log ⁡ (offset) relations in case of SGRBs only, while no obvious relation for LGRBs. There is no correlations between offset and Lγ,iso. We also put the special GRB 170817A and GRB 060218A on the plots. The two GRBs both have low luminosity and small offset. In the log ⁡ (offset) - log ⁡T90,i plot, we found GRB 170817A locates in between the two regions of SGRBs and LGRBs and it is the outlier in the offset -Eγ,iso, offset -Lγ,iso and offset -Lpk plots. Together with GRB 060218A being an outlier in all plots, it indicates the speciality of GRBs 170817A and 060218A, and might imply more subgroups of the GRB samples.

  7. The stability of mandibular prognathism corrected by bilateral sagittal split osteotomies: a comparison of bi-cortical osteosynthesis and mono-cortical osteosynthesis.

    PubMed

    Hsu, S S-P; Huang, C-S; Chen, P K-T; Ko, E W-C; Chen, Y-R

    2012-02-01

    This study evaluated the differences in surgical changes and post-surgical changes between bi-cortical and mono-cortical osteosynthesis (MCO) in the correction of skeletal Class III malocclusion with bilateral sagittal split osteotomies (BSSOs). Twenty-five patients had bi-cortical osteosynthesis (BCO), 32 patients had mono-cortical fixation. Lateral and postero-anterior cephalometric radiographs, taken at the time of surgery, before surgery, 1 month after surgery, and on completion of orthodontic treatment (mean 9.9 months after surgery), were obtained for evaluation. Cephalometric analysis and superimposition were used to investigate the surgical and post-surgical changes. Independent t-test was performed to compare the difference between the two groups. Pearson's correlations were tested to evaluate the factors related to the relapse of the mandible. The sagittal relapse rate was 20% in the bi-cortical and 25% in the mono-cortical group. The forward-upward rotation of the mandible in the post-surgical period contributed most of the sagittal relapse. There were no statistically significant differences in sagittal and vertical changes between the two groups during surgery and in the post-surgical period. No factors were found to correlate with post-surgical relapse, but the intergonial width increased more in the bi-cortical group. The study suggested that both methods of skeletal fixation had similar postoperative stability. Copyright © 2011 International Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  8. Sagittal plane analysis of the spine and pelvis in degenerative lumbar scoliosis.

    PubMed

    Han, Fei; Weishi, Li; Zhuoran, Sun; Qingwei, Ma; Zhongqiang, Chen

    2017-01-01

    Previous studies have reported the normative values of pelvic sagittal parameters, but no study has analyzed the sagittal spino-pelvic alignment in degenerative lumbar scoliosis (DLS) and its role in the pathogenesis. Retrospective analysis was applied to 104 patients with DLS, together with 100 cases of asymptomatic young adults as a control group and another control group consisting of 145 cases with cervical spondylosis. The coronal and sagittal parameters were measured on the anteroposterior and lateral radiograph of the whole spine in the DLS group as well as in the two control groups. Statistical analysis showed that the DLS group had a higher pelvic incidence (PI) value (50.5° ± 10.2°), than the normal control group (with PI 47.2° ± 8.8°) and the cervical spondylosis group (46.9° ± 9.1°). In DLS group, there were 38 cases (36.5%) complicated with degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis, who had higher PI values than patients without it. Besides, the lumbar lordosis (LL) and sacral slope (SS) of DLS group were lower; the scoliosis Cobb's angle was correlated with pelvic tilt (PT); thoracic kyphosis was correlated with LL, SS, and PT; and LL was correlated with other sagittal parameters. Patients with DLS may have a higher PI, which may impact the pathogenesis of DLS. A high PI value is probably associated with the high prevalence of degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis among DLS patients. In DLS patients, the lumbar spine maintains the ability of regulating the sagittal balance, and the regulation depends more on thoracic curve.

  9. Correlation and Reliability of Cervical Sagittal Alignment Parameters between Lateral Cervical Radiograph and Lateral Whole-Body EOS Stereoradiograph.

    PubMed

    Singhatanadgige, Weerasak; Kang, Daniel G; Luksanapruksa, Panya; Peters, Colleen; Riew, K Daniel

    2016-09-01

    Retrospective analysis. To evaluate the correlation and reliability of cervical sagittal alignment parameters obtained from lateral cervical radiographs (XRs) compared with lateral whole-body stereoradiographs (SRs). We evaluated adults with cervical deformity using both lateral XRs and lateral SRs obtained within 1 week of each other between 2010 and 2014. XR and SR images were measured by two independent spine surgeons using the following sagittal alignment parameters: C2-C7 sagittal Cobb angle (SCA), C2-C7 sagittal vertical axis (SVA), C1-C7 translational distance (C1-7), T1 slope (T1-S), neck tilt (NT), and thoracic inlet angle (TIA). Pearson correlation and paired t test were used for statistical analysis, with intra- and interrater reliability analyzed using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). A total of 35 patients were included in the study. We found excellent intrarater reliability for all sagittal alignment parameters in both the XR and SR groups with ICC ranging from 0.799 to 0.994 for XR and 0.791 to 0.995 for SR. Interrater reliability was also excellent for all parameters except NT and TIA, which had fair reliability. We also found excellent correlations between XR and SR measurements for most sagittal alignment parameters; SCA, SVA, and C1-C7 had r > 0.90, and only NT had r < 0.70. There was a significant difference between groups, with SR having lower measurements compared with XR for both SVA (0.68 cm lower, p < 0.001) and C1-C7 (1.02 cm lower, p < 0.001). There were no differences between groups for SCA, T1-S, NT, and TIA. Whole-body stereoradiography appears to be a viable alternative for measuring cervical sagittal alignment parameters compared with standard radiography. XR and SR demonstrated excellent correlation for most sagittal alignment parameters except NT. However, SR had significantly lower average SVA and C1-C7 measurements than XR. The lower radiation exposure using single SR has to be weighed against its

  10. 29 CFR 4903.32 - Tax refund offset procedures.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 29 Labor 9 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Tax refund offset procedures. 4903.32 Section 4903.32 Labor... RULES AND PROCEDURES DEBT COLLECTION Tax Refund Offset § 4903.32 Tax refund offset procedures. (a) General. Before referring a debt for tax refund offset, the PBGC will complete the procedures specified in...

  11. T9 versus T10 as the upper instrumented vertebra for correction of adult deformity-rationale and recommendations.

    PubMed

    Hey, Hwee Weng Dennis; Tan, Kimberly-Anne; Neo, Christabel Shao-En; Lau, Eugene Tze-Chun; Choong, Denise Ai-Wen; Lau, Leok-Lim; Liu, Gabriel Ka-Po; Wong, Hee-Kit

    2017-05-01

    Adult spinal deformity correction sometimes involves long posterior pedicle screw constructs extending from the lumbosacral spine to the thoracic vertebra. As fusion obliterates motion and places supraphysiological stress on adjacent spinal segments, it is crucial to ascertain the ideal upper instrumented vertebra (UIV) to minimize risk of proximal junctional failure (PJF). The T10 vertebra is often chosen to allow bridging of the thoracolumbar junction into the immobile thoracic vertebrae on the basis that it is the lowest immobile thoracic vertebra strut by the rib cage. This study aimed to characterize the range of motion (ROM) of each vertebral segment from T7 to S1 to determine if T10 is truly the lowest immobile thoracic vertebra. This is a prospective, comparative study. Seventy-nine adults (mean age of 45.4 years) presenting with low back pain or lower limb radiculopathy or both, without previous spinal intervention, metastases, fractures, infection, or congenital deformities of the spine, were included in the study. A ROM >5° across two vertebral segments as determined by the Cobb method from radiographs. Lumbar flexion-extension and neutral erect radiographs were obtained in randomized order using a slot scanner. Segmental ROM was measured from T7-T8 to L5-S1 and analyzed for significant differences using t tests. Age, gender, radiographical indices such as standard spinopelvic parameters, sagittal vertical axis (SVA), C7-T12 SVA, T1 slope, thoracic kyphosis (TK), and lumbar lordosis (LL) were studied via multivariate analysis to identify predictive factors for >5° change in ROM at the various segmental levels. There were no sources of funding and no conflicts of interest associated with this study. In the thoracolumbar spine, significant decreases in ROM when compared with the adjacent caudad segment occurs up to T9-T10, with mean total ROM of 1.98±1.47° (p<.001) seen in T9-T10, 2.19±1.67° (p<.001) in T10-T11, and 3.92±3.21°(p<.001) in T11-T12

  12. Sagittal crest formation in great apes and gibbons.

    PubMed

    Balolia, Katharine L; Soligo, Christophe; Wood, Bernard

    2017-06-01

    The frequency of sagittal crest expression and patterns of sagittal crest growth and development have been documented in hominoids, including some extinct hominin taxa, and the more frequent expression of the sagittal crest in males has been traditionally linked with the need for larger-bodied individuals to have enough attachment area for the temporalis muscle. In the present study, we investigate sagittal cresting in a dentally mature sample of four hominoid taxa (Pan troglodytes schweinfurthii, Gorilla gorilla gorilla, Pongo pygmaeus pygmaeus and Hylobates lar). We investigate whether sagittal crest size increases with age beyond dental maturity in males and females of G. g. gorilla and Po. pyg. pygmaeus, and whether these taxa show sex differences in the timing of sagittal crest development. We evaluate the hypothesis that the larger sagittal crest of males may not be solely due to the requirement for a larger surface area than the un-crested cranial vault can provide for the attachment of the temporalis muscle, and present data on sex differences in temporalis muscle attachment area and sagittal crest size relative to cranial size. Gorilla g. gorilla and Po. pyg. pygmaeus males show significant relationships between tooth wear rank and sagittal crest size, and they show sagittal crest size differences between age groups that are not found in females. The sagittal crest emerges in early adulthood in the majority of G. g. gorilla males, whereas the percentage of G. g. gorilla females possessing a sagittal crest increases more gradually. Pongo pyg. pygmaeus males experience a three-fold increase in the number of specimens exhibiting a sagittal crest in mid-adulthood, consistent with a secondary growth spurt. Gorilla g. gorilla and Po. pyg. pygmaeus show significant sex differences in the size of the temporalis muscle attachment area, relative to cranial size, with males of both taxa showing positive allometry not shown in females. Gorilla g

  13. The angle of inclination of the native ACL in the coronal and sagittal planes.

    PubMed

    Reid, Jonathan C; Yonke, Bret; Tompkins, Marc

    2017-04-01

    The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to evaluate the angle of inclination of the native anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in both the sagittal and coronal planes and to evaluate these findings based on sex, height, BMI, and skeletal maturity. Inclusion criteria for the study included patients undergoing routine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the knee at a single outpatient orthopedic center who had an intact ACL on MRI. Measurements of the angle of inclination were made on MRIs in both the sagittal and coronal planes. Patients were compared based on sex, height, BMI, and skeletal maturity. One-hundred and eighty-eight patients were included (36 skeletally immature/152 skeletally mature; 98 male/90 female). The overall angle of inclination was 74.3° ± 4.8° in the coronal plane and 46.9° ± 4.9° in the sagittal plane. Skeletally immature patients (coronal: 71.8° ± 6.1°; sagittal: 44.7° ± 5.5°) were significantly different in both coronal and sagittal planes (P = 0.04 and 0.01, respectively) from skeletally mature patients (coronal: 75.3° ± 4.7°; sagittal: 47.4° ± 4.7°). There were no differences based on sex, height, or BMI. There are differences between the angle of inclination findings in this study and other studies, which could be due to MRI and measurement techniques. Clinically, skeletal maturity may be important to account for when using the ACL angle of inclination to evaluate anatomic ACL reconstruction. Prognostic retrospective study, Level of evidence III.

  14. Mid-sagittal plane and mid-sagittal surface optimization in brain MRI using a local symmetry measure

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Stegmann, Mikkel B.; Skoglund, Karl; Ryberg, Charlotte

    2005-04-01

    This paper describes methods for automatic localization of the mid-sagittal plane (MSP) and mid-sagittal surface (MSS). The data used is a subset of the Leukoaraiosis And DISability (LADIS) study consisting of three-dimensional magnetic resonance brain data from 62 elderly subjects (age 66 to 84 years). Traditionally, the mid-sagittal plane is localized by global measures. However, this approach fails when the partitioning plane between the brain hemispheres does not coincide with the symmetry plane of the head. We instead propose to use a sparse set of profiles in the plane normal direction and maximize the local symmetry around these using a general-purpose optimizer. The plane is parameterized by azimuth and elevation angles along with the distance to the origin in the normal direction. This approach leads to solutions confirmed as the optimal MSP in 98 percent of the subjects. Despite the name, the mid-sagittal plane is not always planar, but a curved surface resulting in poor partitioning of the brain hemispheres. To account for this, this paper also investigates an optimization strategy which fits a thin-plate spline surface to the brain data using a robust least median of squares estimator. Albeit computationally more expensive, mid-sagittal surface fitting demonstrated convincingly better partitioning of curved brains into cerebral hemispheres.

  15. Sagittal Alignment Two Years After Selective and Nonselective Thoracic Fusion for Lenke 1C Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis.

    PubMed

    Celestre, Paul C; Carreon, Leah Y; Lenke, Lawrence G; Sucato, Daniel J; Glassman, Steven D

    2015-11-01

    Matched cohort. To evaluate thoracic and thoracolumbar sagittal Cobb angles in patients undergoing either selective thoracic fusion (STF) or nonselective thoracic fusion (NSTF) for Lenke 1C adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). The Lenke classification is used to guide fusion levels in AIS. For some curve types, including 1C, there is a disparity in practice regarding whether the thoracolumbar/lumbar curve should be included in the arthrodesis. The impact of performing an NSTF on sagittal parameters has not been adequately evaluated. A multicenter database of AIS was queried for patients with right-sided 1C curves treated with posterior correction and fusion. A matched cohort for each group was created based on age, gender, preoperative Cobb angles, and Scoliosis Research Society-22R domain scores. Independent t tests for continuous variables and Fisher exact test for categorical variables were used to compare the STF and NSTF groups. Thirty-eight patients who underwent NSTF were matched to 38 patients in the STF. An average of 8.0 levels were fused in the STF group and 11.6 in the NSTF group (p < .001). Preoperative and radiographic variables were similar between the two groups. Postoperatively, there was a statistically significant difference between the STF and NSTF sagittal Cobb in the thoracic spine, 26.9° and 21.7° (p = .013). The greatest difference was in the thoracolumbar sagittal Cobb, which increased to 4.3° kyphosis in the STF group and decreased to 9° of lordosis in the NSTF group (p < .001). Residual thoracolumbar/lumbar scoliosis was 25.5° in the STF group and 14.5° in the NSTF group (p < .001). STF in 1C curves preserves lumbar motion segments but may be associated with an increase in thoracic and thoracolumbar kyphosis compared to NSTF. As expected, residual thoracolumbar/lumbar scoliosis was less in the NSTF group compared to the STF group. Although the long-term implications of these changes are unknown, consideration of sagittal balance

  16. Detection of a westward hotspot offset in the atmosphere of hot gas giant CoRoT-2b

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dang, Lisa; Cowan, Nicolas B.; Schwartz, Joel C.; Rauscher, Emily; Zhang, Michael; Knutson, Heather A.; Line, Michael; Dobbs-Dixon, Ian; Deming, Drake; Sundararajan, Sudarsan; Fortney, Jonathan J.; Zhao, Ming

    2018-03-01

    Short-period planets exhibit day-night temperature contrasts of hundreds to thousands of kelvin. They also exhibit eastward hotspot offsets whereby the hottest region on the planet is east of the substellar point1; this has been widely interpreted as advection of heat due to eastward winds2. We present thermal phase observations of the hot Jupiter CoRoT-2b obtained with the Infrared Array Camera (IRAC) on the Spitzer Space Telescope. These measurements show the most robust detection to date of a westward hotspot offset of 23 ± 4°, in contrast with the nine other planets with equivalent measurements3-10. The peculiar infrared flux map of CoRoT-2b may result from westward winds due to non-synchronous rotation11 or magnetic effects12,13, or partial cloud coverage, that obscure the emergent flux from the planet's eastern hemisphere14-17. Non-synchronous rotation and magnetic effects may also explain the planet's anomalously large radius12,18. On the other hand, partial cloud coverage could explain the featureless dayside emission spectrum of the planet19,20. If CoRoT-2b is not tidally locked, then it means that our understanding of star-planet tidal interaction is incomplete. If the westward offset is due to magnetic effects, our result represents an opportunity to study an exoplanet's magnetic field. If it has eastern clouds, then it means that a greater understanding of large-scale circulation on tidally locked planets is required.

  17. 48 CFR 225.7306 - Offset arrangements.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ..., resides with the companies involved. (Also see 225.7303-2(a)(3).) [70 FR 73155, Dec. 9, 2005] ....7306 Offset arrangements. In accordance with the Presidential policy statement of April 16, 1990, DoD does not encourage, enter into, or commit U.S. firms to FMS offset arrangements. The decision whether...

  18. Influence of implant rod curvature on sagittal correction of scoliosis deformity.

    PubMed

    Salmingo, Remel Alingalan; Tadano, Shigeru; Abe, Yuichiro; Ito, Manabu

    2014-08-01

    , respectively. The average preoperative and postoperative implant rod angle of curvature at the convex side was 25.5° and 23.9°, respectively. A significant relationship was found between the degree of rod deformation and preoperative implant rod angle of curvature (r=0.60, p<.005). The implant rods at the convex side of all patients did not have significant deformation. The results indicate that the postoperative sagittal outcome could be predicted from the initial rod shape. Changes in implant rod angle of curvature may lead to over- or undercorrection of the sagittal curve. Rod deformation at the concave side suggests that corrective forces acting on that side are greater than the convex side. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  19. Experimental demonstration of a 16.9 Gb/s link for coherent OFDM PON robust to frequency offset and timing error

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ma, Qian; Liu, Yu; Xiang, Yuanjiang

    2018-07-01

    Due to its merits of flexible bandwidth allocation and robustness towards fiber transmission impairments, coherent optical orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (CO-OFDM) technology draws a lot of attention for passive optical networks (PON). However, a CO-OFDM system is vulnerable to frequency offsets between modulated optical signals and optical local oscillators (OLO). This is particularly serious for low cost PONs where low cost lasers are used. Thus, it is of great interest to develop efficient algorithms for frequency synchronization in CO-OFDM systems. Usually frequency synchronization proposed in CO-OFDM systems are done by detecting the phase shift in time domain. In such a way, there is a trade-off between estimation accuracy and range. Considering that the integer frequency offset (IFO) contributes to the major frequency offset, a more efficient method to estimate IFO is of demand. By detecting IFO induced circular channel rotation (CCR), the frequency offset can be directly estimated after fast Fourier transforming (FFT). In this paper, circular acquisition offset frequency and timing synchronization (CAO-FTS) scheme is proposed. A specially-designed frequency domain pseudo noise (PN) sequence is used for CCR detection and timing synchronization. Full-range frequency offset compensation and non-plateau timing synchronization are experimentally demonstrated in presence of fiber dispersion. Based on CAO-FTS, 16.9 Gb/s CO-OFDM signal is successfully delivered over a span of 80-km single mode fiber.

  20. Long-term Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes of Pedicle Subtraction Osteotomy for Fixed Sagittal Imbalance: Does Level of Proximal Fusion Affect the Outcome? Minimum 5-Year Follow-up.

    PubMed

    Yagi, Mitsuru; King, Akilah B; Cunningham, Matthew E; Boachie-Adjei, Oheneba

    2013-03-01

    Retrospective case series of surgically treated adult patients with fixed sagittal imbalance. To assess clinical and radiographic changes after pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO) to treat adult fixed sagittal imbalance. Although recent reports have shown favorable clinical outcomes for PSO, few reports have published long-term follow-up outcomes. It is also unknown whether long-term outcomes are correlated with the level of proximal fusion and the radiographic changes that are observed after PSO. We reviewed the charts, X-rays, and postoperative SRS-22 and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores of 32 adult patients who presented with fixed sagittal imbalance and were treated with lumbar PSO. Long fusions were defined as those proximal to T6, and short fusions were defined as those below T8. Measured radiographic parameters included thoracic kyphosis, lumbar lordosis (LL), sacral slope, pelvic incidence, and sagittal balance (SVA). Statistical analysis included Student t test and chi-square test. A p value of < .05 and a confidence interval of 95% were considered statistically significant. Among the reviewed cases were 23 women and 9 men, with a mean age of 50.9 years (range, 33-76 years) and a mean follow-up 8.6 years (range, 5-16 years). The LL increased from -16.0° preoperatively to -52.1° postoperatively. This metric decreased to -51.0° at final follow-up. The SVA decreased from 10.4 cm preoperatively to 3.6 cm postoperatively. The SVA increased to 5.4 cm at the final follow-up visit. There were 17 long fusions and 15 short fusions. The SRS scores at the final follow-up time point were: total, 3.63; function, 3.59; pain, 3.68; self-image, 3.46; mental health, 3.56; satisfaction, 4.26. A total of 16 patients exhibited minimal disability, 11 exhibited moderate disability, and 2 exhibited severe disability in ODI scores at the final follow-up visit (average, 28.2%). The SRS and ODI scores were not significantly different between groups (p = .64 for SRS; p = .59

  1. 31 CFR 5.10 - How will Treasury entities use administrative offset (offset of non-tax Federal payments) to...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... Offset Program. (1) In most cases, the Financial Management Service uses the Treasury Offset Program to... transferred to the Financial Management Service under § 5.9 of this part, Treasury entities will refer any... Management Service, in writing, that the debt is valid, delinquent, legally enforceable, and that there are...

  2. Policy Development for Biodiversity Offsets: A Review of Offset Frameworks

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    McKenney, Bruce A.; Kiesecker, Joseph M.

    2010-01-01

    Biodiversity offsets seek to compensate for residual environmental impacts of planned developments after appropriate steps have been taken to avoid, minimize or restore impacts on site. Offsets are emerging as an increasingly employed mechanism for achieving net environmental benefits, with offset policies being advanced in a wide range of countries (i.e., United States, Australia, Brazil, Colombia, and South Africa). To support policy development for biodiversity offsets, we review a set of major offset policy frameworks—US wetlands mitigation, US conservation banking, EU Natura 2000, Australian offset policies in New South Wales, Victoria, and Western Australia, and Brazilian industrial and forest offsets. We compare how the frameworks define offset policy goals, approach the mitigation process, and address six key issues for implementing offsets: (1) equivalence of project impacts with offset gains; (2) location of the offset relative to the impact site; (3) “additionality” (a new contribution to conservation) and acceptable types of offsets; (4) timing of project impacts versus offset benefits; (5) offset duration and compliance; and (6) “currency” and mitigation replacement ratios. We find substantial policy commonalities that may serve as a sound basis for future development of biodiversity offsets policy. We also identify issues requiring further policy guidance, including how best to: (1) ensure conformance with the mitigation hierarchy; (2) identify the most environmentally preferable offsets within a landscape context; and (3) determine appropriate mitigation replacement ratios.

  3. Policy development for biodiversity offsets: a review of offset frameworks.

    PubMed

    McKenney, Bruce A; Kiesecker, Joseph M

    2010-01-01

    Biodiversity offsets seek to compensate for residual environmental impacts of planned developments after appropriate steps have been taken to avoid, minimize or restore impacts on site. Offsets are emerging as an increasingly employed mechanism for achieving net environmental benefits, with offset policies being advanced in a wide range of countries (i.e., United States, Australia, Brazil, Colombia, and South Africa). To support policy development for biodiversity offsets, we review a set of major offset policy frameworks-US wetlands mitigation, US conservation banking, EU Natura 2000, Australian offset policies in New South Wales, Victoria, and Western Australia, and Brazilian industrial and forest offsets. We compare how the frameworks define offset policy goals, approach the mitigation process, and address six key issues for implementing offsets: (1) equivalence of project impacts with offset gains; (2) location of the offset relative to the impact site; (3) "additionality" (a new contribution to conservation) and acceptable types of offsets; (4) timing of project impacts versus offset benefits; (5) offset duration and compliance; and (6) "currency" and mitigation replacement ratios. We find substantial policy commonalities that may serve as a sound basis for future development of biodiversity offsets policy. We also identify issues requiring further policy guidance, including how best to: (1) ensure conformance with the mitigation hierarchy; (2) identify the most environmentally preferable offsets within a landscape context; and (3) determine appropriate mitigation replacement ratios.

  4. Chemical exchange saturation transfer MRI contrast in the human brain at 9.4 T.

    PubMed

    Zaiss, Moritz; Schuppert, Mark; Deshmane, Anagha; Herz, Kai; Ehses, Philipp; Füllbier, Lars; Lindig, Tobias; Bender, Benjamin; Ernemann, Ulrike; Scheffler, Klaus

    2018-06-15

    The high chemical shift separation at 9.4 T allows for selective saturation of proton pools in exchange with water protons. For the first time, highly selective and comprehensive chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) experiments were performed in the human brain at 9.4 T. This work provides insight into CEST signals in the human brain in comparison with existing animal studies, as well as with CEST effects in vivo at lower field strengths. A novel snapshot-CEST method for human brain scans at 9.4 T was optimized and employed for highly-spectrally-resolved (95 offsets) CEST measurements in healthy subjects and one brain tumor patient. Reproducibility and stability between scans was verified in grey and white matter after B 0 , B 1 , and motion correction of the acquired 3D CEST volumes. Two-step Lorentzian fitting was used to further improve separation of spectrally discernible signals to create known and novel CEST contrast maps at 9.4 T. At a saturation power of B 1  = 0.5 μT most selective CEST effects could be obtained in the human brain with high inter-scan reproducibility. While contrast behavior of previously measured signals at lower field, namely amide-, guanidyl- and NOE-CEST effects, could be reproduced, novel signals at 2.7 ppm, and -1.6 ppm could be verified in healthy subjects and in a brain tumor patient for the first time. High spectral resolution chemical exchange saturation transfer at 9.4 T allows deeper insights into the Z-spectrum structure of the human brain, and provides many different contrasts showing different correlations in healthy tissue and in tumor-affected areas of the brain, generating hypotheses for future investigations of in-vivo-CEST at UHF. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  5. Effect of Preoperative Molding Helmet in Patients With Sagittal Synostosis.

    PubMed

    Hashmi, Asra; Marupudi, Neena I; Sood, Sandeep; Rozzelle, Arlene

    2017-06-01

    In our practice, the authors found that molding helmet used for plagiocephaly preoperatively, in patients with sagittal synostosis, decreased bathrocephaly, forehead bossing, and improved posterior vertex, as well as Cephalic Index (CI). This prompted us to investigate the impact of preoperative molding helmet in patients with sagittal synostosis. A prospective study was performed on patients undergoing surgical correction of sagittal synostosis, over a 5-year period. Patients were categorized into 2 groups. "No Helmet group" only had surgical correction, and "Helmet group" had preoperative molding helmet, prior to surgical correction. Cephalic Index for the 2 groups was compared using t-test. There were 40 patients in the No Helmet group and 18 patients in the Helmet group. For No Helmet group, mean CI at presentation, immediately preoperative, and postoperatively was 0.70 (±0.045), 0.70 (±0.020), and 0.80 (±0.030), respectively, and for Helmet group, it was 0.69 (±0.023), 0.73 (±0.036), and 0.83 (±0.036), respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between CI of the 2 groups at presentation (P = 0.45). Comparison of postoperative CI did show a statistically significant difference between the groups (P = 0.01). For Helmet group, on comparison of CI at presentation and preoperative CI (after helmet therapy), a statistically significant improvement in CI was observed (P = 0.0004). Our results suggest that preoperative molding helmet can decrease bathrocephaly, forehead bossing, and improve posterior vertex as well as CI, prior to surgery and thus can be used as a valuable adjunct in patients with sagittal synostosis.

  6. Self-Inflicted Drywall Screws in the Sagittal Sinus.

    PubMed

    Guppy, Kern H; Ochi, Calvin

    2018-02-01

    A 30-year-old right-handed man with a history of schizophrenia presented with 2 self-inflicted drywall screws in the skull. The patient was sleepy but easily arousable; blood tests showed he had taken methamphetamines. Computed tomography and computed tomography angiography of the head showed the frontal screw abutted left of the superior sagittal sinus, and the posterior screw went through the superior sagittal sinus with no extravasation of contrast material at either site. Both screws were removed with exposure of the sagittal sinus using U-shaped craniectomies. There was no bleeding on the removal of the screws. It appears the posterior screw entered between the leaflets of the sagittal sinus dura mater. The patient had returned to work without any sequelae 1 month after injury. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  7. Measurement of lumbar spine intervertebral motion in the sagittal plane using videofluoroscopy.

    PubMed

    Harvey, Steven; Hukins, David; Smith, Francis; Wardlaw, Douglas; Kader, Deiary

    2016-08-10

    Static radiographic techniques are unable to capture the wealth of kinematic information available from lumbar spine sagittal plane motion. Demonstration of a viable non-invasive technique for acquiring and quantifying intervertebral motion of the lumbar spine in the sagittal plane. Videofluoroscopic footage of sagittal plane lumbar spine flexion-extension in seven symptomatic volunteers (mean age = 48 yrs) and one asymptomatic volunteer (age = 54 yrs) was recorded. Vertebral bodies were digitised using customised software employing a novel vertebral digitisation scheme that was minimally affected by out-of-plane motion. Measurement errors in intervertebral rotation (± 1°) and intervertebral displacement (± 0.5 mm) compare favourably with the work of others. Some subjects presenting with an identical condition (disc prolapse) exhibited a similar column vertebral flexion-extension relative to S1 (L3: max. 5.9°, min. 5.6°), while in others (degenerative disc disease) there was paradoxically a significant variation in this measurement (L3: max. 28.1°, min. 0.7°). By means of a novel vertebral digitisation scheme and customised digitisation/analysis software, sagittal plane intervertebral motion data of the lumbar spine data has been successfully extracted from videofluoroscopic image sequences. Whilst the intervertebral motion signatures of subjects in this study differed significantly, the available sample size precluded the inference of any clinical trends.

  8. Radiographic analysis of the correlation between ossification of the nuchal ligament and sagittal alignment and segmental stability of the cervical spine in patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy.

    PubMed

    Ying, Jinwei; Teng, Honglin; Qian, Yunfan; Hu, Yingying; Wen, Tianyong; Ruan, Dike; Zhu, Minyu

    2018-01-01

    Background Ossification of the nuchal ligament (ONL) caused by chronic injury to the nuchal ligament (NL) is very common in instability-related cervical disorders. Purpose To determine possible correlations between ONL, sagittal alignment, and segmental stability of the cervical spine. Material and Methods Seventy-three patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) and ONL (ONL group) and 118 patients with CSM only (control group) were recruited. Radiographic data included the characteristics of ONL, sagittal alignment and segmental stability, and ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL). We performed comparisons in terms of radiographic parameters between the ONL and control groups. The correlations between ONL size, cervical sagittal alignment, and segmental stability were analyzed. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify the independent risk factors of the development of ONL. Results C2-C7 sagittal vertical axis (SVA), T1 slope (T1S), T1S minus cervical lordosis (T1S-CL) on the lateral plain, angular displacement (AD), and horizontal displacement (HD) on the dynamic radiograph increased significantly in the ONL group compared with the control group. The size of ONL significantly correlated with C2-C7 SVA, T1S, AD, and HD. The incidence of ONL was higher in patients with OPLL and segmental instability. Cervical instability, sagittal malalignment, and OPLL were independent predictors of the development of ONL through multivariate analysis. Conclusion Patients with ONL are more likely to have abnormal sagittal alignment and instability of the cervical spine. Thus, increased awareness and appreciation of this often-overlooked radiographic finding is warranted during diagnosis and treatment of instability-related cervical pathologies and injuries.

  9. Interior micro-CT with an offset detector

    PubMed Central

    Sharma, Kriti Sen; Gong, Hao; Ghasemalizadeh, Omid; Yu, Hengyong; Wang, Ge; Cao, Guohua

    2014-01-01

    Purpose: The size of field-of-view (FOV) of a microcomputed tomography (CT) system can be increased by offsetting the detector. The increased FOV is beneficial in many applications. All prior investigations, however, have been focused to the case in which the increased FOV after offset-detector acquisition can cover the transaxial extent of an object fully. Here, the authors studied a new problem where the FOV of a micro-CT system, although increased after offset-detector acquisition, still covers an interior region-of-interest (ROI) within the object. Methods: An interior-ROI-oriented micro-CT scan with an offset detector poses a difficult reconstruction problem, which is caused by both detector offset and projection truncation. Using the projection completion techniques, the authors first extended three previous reconstruction methods from offset-detector micro-CT to offset-detector interior micro-CT. The authors then proposed a novel method which combines two of the extended methods using a frequency split technique. The authors tested the four methods with phantom simulations at 9.4%, 18.8%, 28.2%, and 37.6% detector offset. The authors also applied these methods to physical phantom datasets acquired at the same amounts of detector offset from a customized micro-CT system. Results: When the detector offset was small, all reconstruction methods showed good image quality. At large detector offset, the three extended methods gave either visible shading artifacts or high deviation of pixel value, while the authors’ proposed method demonstrated no visible artifacts and minimal deviation of pixel value in both the numerical simulations and physical experiments. Conclusions: For an interior micro-CT with an offset detector, the three extended reconstruction methods can perform well at a small detector offset but show strong artifacts at a large detector offset. When the detector offset is large, the authors’ proposed reconstruction method can outperform the three

  10. High-resolution maps of magnetization transfer with inherent correction for RF inhomogeneity and T1 relaxation obtained from 3D FLASH MRI.

    PubMed

    Helms, Gunther; Dathe, Henning; Kallenberg, Kai; Dechent, Peter

    2008-12-01

    An empirical equation for the magnetization transfer (MT) FLASH signal is derived by analogy to dual-excitation FLASH, introducing a novel semiquantitative parameter for MT, the percentage saturation imposed by one MT pulse during TR. This parameter is obtained by a linear transformation of the inverse signal, using two reference experiments of proton density and T(1) weighting. The influence of sequence parameters on the MT saturation was studied. An 8.5-min protocol for brain imaging at 3 T was based on nonselective sagittal 3D-FLASH at 1.25 mm isotropic resolution using partial acquisition techniques (TR/TE/alpha = 25ms/4.9ms/5 degrees or 11ms/4.9ms/15 degrees for the T(1) reference). A 12.8 ms Gaussian MT pulse was applied 2.2 kHz off-resonance with 540 degrees flip angle. The MT saturation maps showed an excellent contrast in the brain due to clearly separated distributions for white and gray matter and cerebrospinal fluid. Within the limits of the approximation (excitation <15 degrees , TR/T(1) less sign 1) the MT term depends mainly on TR, the energy and offset of the MT pulse, but hardly on excitation and T(1) relaxation. It is inherently compensated for inhomogeneities of receive and transmit RF fields. The MT saturation appeared to be a sensitive parameter to depict MS lesions and alterations of normal-appearing white matter. (c) 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

  11. Radiographical predictors for postoperative sagittal imbalance in patients with thoracolumbar kyphosis secondary to ankylosing spondylitis after lumbar pedicle subtraction osteotomy.

    PubMed

    Qian, Bang-ping; Jiang, Jun; Qiu, Yong; Wang, Bin; Yu, Yang; Zhu, Ze-zhang

    2013-12-15

    A retrospective radiographical study. To identify the radiographical predictors for sagittal imbalance in patients with thoracolumbar kyphosis secondary to ankylosing spondylitis (AS) after 1-level lumbar pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO). Few studies had correlated the preoperative sagittal parameters with postoperative sagittal alignments to determine the radiographical predictors for postoperative sagittal imbalance in patients with AS after 1-level lumbar PSO. Thirty-six patients with thoracolumbar kyphosis secondary to AS who underwent 1-level lumbar PSO were recruited with a minimal follow-up of 24 months (mean = 27.4 mo; range, 24-53 mo). Correlation analysis and subsequent stepwise multiple regression analysis were used to evaluate the correlations between preoperative parameters, including global kyphosis, local kyphosis, thoracic kyphosis, thoracolumbar Cobb angle, lumbar lordosis, pelvic incidence (PI), pelvic tilt, sacral slope, and sagittal vertical axis (SVA), as well as SVA at the last follow-up. All these patients were further divided into 2 groups according to the PI value (group A: PI >50°; group B: PI ≤50°). The correction outcomes were compared between these 2 groups. The preoperative SVA was not significantly different between group A and group B (157.6 mm vs. 124.5 mm; P> 0.05), and both groups had similar magnitudes of kyphosis corrections at the last follow-up (global kyphosis: 42.9° vs. 46.1°; local kyphosis: 42.7° vs. 40.5°; lumbar lordosis: 35.7° vs. 43.0°). However, group A patients had significantly larger SVA at the last follow-up (73.2 mm vs. 28.7 mm; P< 0.05) and a higher incidence of postoperative sagittal imbalance (77.8% vs. 25.9%; P< 0.05) than those in group B. The stepwise multiple regression analysis demonstrated that both preoperative SVA and PI were significant independent predictors of postoperative sagittal alignments, which explained 52.0% and 9.7% of the variability of SVA at the last follow-up, respectively

  12. 29 CFR 4903.33 - Referral of debt for tax refund offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 29 Labor 9 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Referral of debt for tax refund offset. 4903.33 Section... AND ADMINISTRATIVE RULES AND PROCEDURES DEBT COLLECTION Tax Refund Offset § 4903.33 Referral of debt for tax refund offset. The Director of the Financial Operations Department (or a department official...

  13. Acute proximal junctional failure in patients with preoperative sagittal imbalance.

    PubMed

    Smith, Micah W; Annis, Prokopis; Lawrence, Brandon D; Daubs, Michael D; Brodke, Darrel S

    2015-10-01

    Proximal junctional failure (PJF) is a recognized complication of spinal deformity surgery. Acute PJF (APJF) has recently been demonstrated to be 5.6% in the adult spinal deformity (ASD) population. The incidence and rate of return to the operating room for APJF have not been specifically investigated in individuals with sagittal imbalance. The purpose of this study was to report the incidence of APJF in patients with preoperative sagittal imbalance and the rate of return to the operating room for APJF. This study is based on a retrospective review of prospectively collected database of ASD patients. One hundred seventy-three consecutive patients were included with preoperative sagittal imbalance according to one of the following common parameters: sagittal vertical axis (SVA) greater than 50 mm, global sagittal alignment greater than 45°, or pelvic incidence minus lumbar lordosis greater than 10°. Outcome measure was presence and/or absence of APJF defined as fracture at the upper instrumented vertebra (UIV) or UIV+1, failure of UIV fixation, 15° or more proximal junctional kyphosis, or need for extension of instrumentation within 6 months of surgery. We performed radiographic measurements on X-rays at preoperative, immediate postoperative, and 6-month follow-up visits. The APJF rate was reported for the entire patient population with preoperative sagittal imbalance. Acute PJF incidence was calculated postoperatively for each of the accepted sagittal balance parameters and/or formulas. Patients with persistent postoperative sagittal imbalance were compared with the sagittally balanced group. We also assessed for threshold values. Acute PJF was observed in 60 of 173 patients (35%) and was least common in fusions with the UIV in the upper thoracic (UT) spine (p=.035). Of those who developed APJF, 21.7% required surgery. Proximal junctional kyphosis 15° or more was the most common form of APJF in fusions to the UT spine but least likely to need revision (p=.014

  14. Usefulness of the dynamic gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging with simultaneous acquisition of coronal and sagittal planes for detection of pituitary microadenomas.

    PubMed

    Lee, Han Bee; Kim, Sung Tae; Kim, Hyung-Jin; Kim, Keon Ha; Jeon, Pyoung; Byun, Hong Sik; Choi, Jin Wook

    2012-03-01

    Does dynamic gadolinium-enhanced imaging with simultaneous acquisition of coronal and sagittal planes improve diagnostic accuracy of pituitary microadenomas compared with coronal images alone? Fifty-six patients underwent 3-T sella MRI including dynamic simultaneous acquisition of coronal and sagittal planes after gadolinium injection. According to conspicuity, lesions were divided into four scores (0, no; 1, possible; 2, probable; 3, definite delayed enhancing lesion). Additional information on supplementary sagittal images compared with coronal ones was evaluated with a 4-point score (0, no; 1, possible; 2, probable; 3, definite additional information). Accuracy of tumour detection was calculated. Average scores for lesion detection of a combination of two planes, coronal, and sagittal images were 2.59, 2.32, and 2.18. 6/10 lesions negative on coronal images were detected on sagittal ones. Accuracy of a combination of two planes, of coronal and of sagittal images was 92.86%, 82.14% and 75%. Six patients had probable or definite additional information on supplementary sagittal images compared with coronal ones alone (10.71%). Dynamic MRI with combined coronal and sagittal planes was more accurate for detection of pituitary microadenomas than routinely used coronal images. Simultaneous dynamic enhanced acquisition can make study time fast and costs low. We present a new dynamic MRI technique for evaluating pituitary microadenomas • This technique provides simultaneous acquisition of contrast enhanced coronal and sagittal images. • This technique makes the diagnosis more accurate and reduces the examination time. • Such MR imaging only requires one single bolus of contrast agent.

  15. Reciprocal Changes in Sagittal Alignment in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis Patients Following Strategic Pedicle Screw Fixation.

    PubMed

    Dumpa, Srikanth Reddy; Shetty, Ajoy Prasad; Aiyer, Siddharth N; Kanna, Rishi Mugesh; Rajasekaran, S

    2018-04-01

    Retrospective observational study. To analyze the effect of low-density (LD) strategic pedicle screw fixation on the correction of coronal and sagittal parameters in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients. LD screw fixation achieves favorable coronal correction, but its effect on sagittal parameters is not well established. AIS is often associated with decreased thoracic kyphosis (TK), and the use of multi-level pedicle screws may result in further flattening of the sagittal profile. A retrospective analysis was performed on 92 patients with AIS to compare coronal and sagittal parameters preoperatively and at 2-year follow-up. All patients underwent posterior correction via LD strategic pedicle screw fixation. Radiographs were analyzed for primary Cobb angle (PCA), coronal imbalance, cervical sagittal angle (CSA), TK, lumbar lordosis (LL), pelvic incidence, pelvic tilt (PT), sacral slope (SS), C7 plumb line, spino-sacral angle, curve flexibility, and screw density. PCA changed significantly from 57.6°±13.9° to 19°±8.4° ( p <0.0001) with 67% correction, where the mean curve flexibility was 41% and screw density was 68%. Regional sagittal parameters did not change significantly, including CSA (from 10.76° to 10.56°, p =0.893), TK (from 24.4° to 22.8°, p =0.145), and LL (from 50.3° to 51.1°, p =0.415). However, subgroup analysis of the hypokyphosis group (<10°) and the hyperkyphosis group (>40°) showed significant correction of TK ( p <0.0001 in both). Sacro-pelvic parameters showed a significant decrease of PT and increase of SS, suggesting a reduction in pelvic retroversion SS (from 37° to 40°, p =0.0001) and PT (from 15° to 14°, p =0.025). LD strategic pedicle screw fixation provides favorable coronal correction and improves overall sagittal sacro-pelvic parameters. This technique does not cause significant flattening of TK and results in a favorable restoration of TK in patients with hypokyphosis or hyperkyphosis.

  16. Reciprocal Changes in Sagittal Alignment in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis Patients Following Strategic Pedicle Screw Fixation

    PubMed Central

    Dumpa, Srikanth Reddy; Aiyer, Siddharth N.; Kanna, Rishi Mugesh; Rajasekaran, S

    2018-01-01

    Study Design Retrospective observational study. Purpose To analyze the effect of low-density (LD) strategic pedicle screw fixation on the correction of coronal and sagittal parameters in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients. Overview of Literature LD screw fixation achieves favorable coronal correction, but its effect on sagittal parameters is not well established. AIS is often associated with decreased thoracic kyphosis (TK), and the use of multi-level pedicle screws may result in further flattening of the sagittal profile. Methods A retrospective analysis was performed on 92 patients with AIS to compare coronal and sagittal parameters preoperatively and at 2-year follow-up. All patients underwent posterior correction via LD strategic pedicle screw fixation. Radiographs were analyzed for primary Cobb angle (PCA), coronal imbalance, cervical sagittal angle (CSA), TK, lumbar lordosis (LL), pelvic incidence, pelvic tilt (PT), sacral slope (SS), C7 plumb line, spino-sacral angle, curve flexibility, and screw density. Results PCA changed significantly from 57.6°±13.9° to 19°±8.4° (p <0.0001) with 67% correction, where the mean curve flexibility was 41% and screw density was 68%. Regional sagittal parameters did not change significantly, including CSA (from 10.76° to 10.56°, p =0.893), TK (from 24.4° to 22.8°, p =0.145), and LL (from 50.3° to 51.1°, p =0.415). However, subgroup analysis of the hypokyphosis group (<10°) and the hyperkyphosis group (>40°) showed significant correction of TK (p <0.0001 in both). Sacro-pelvic parameters showed a significant decrease of PT and increase of SS, suggesting a reduction in pelvic retroversion SS (from 37° to 40°, p =0.0001) and PT (from 15° to 14°, p =0.025). Conclusions LD strategic pedicle screw fixation provides favorable coronal correction and improves overall sagittal sacro-pelvic parameters. This technique does not cause significant flattening of TK and results in a favorable restoration of TK in

  17. Sagittal endplate morphology of the lower lumbar spine.

    PubMed

    Lakshmanan, Palaniappan; Purushothaman, Balaji; Dvorak, Vlasta; Schratt, Walter; Thambiraj, Sathya; Boszczyk, Maximilian

    2012-05-01

    The sagittal profile of lumbar endplates is discrepant from current simplified disc replacement and fusion device design. Endplate concavity is symmetrical in the coronal plane but shows considerable variability in the sagittal plane, which may lead to implant-endplate mismatch. The aim of this investigation is to provide further analysis of the sagittal endplate morphology of the mid to lower lumbar spine study (L3–S1), thereby identifying the presence of common endplate shape patterns across these levels and providing morphological reference values complementing the findings of previous studies. Observational study. A total of 174 magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of the adult lumbar spine from the digital archive of our centre, which met the inclusion criteria, were studied. Superior (SEP) and inferior (IEP) endplate shape was divided into flat (no concavity), oblong (homogeneous concavity) and ex-centric (inhomogeneous concavity). The concavity depth (ECD) and location of concavity apex (ECA) relative to endplate diameter of the vertebrae L3–S1 were determined. Flat endplates were only predominant at the sacrum SEP (84.5%). The L5 SEP was flat in 24.7% and all other endplates in less than 10%. The majority of endplates were concave with a clear trend of endplate shape becoming more ex-centric from L3 IEP (56.9% oblong vs. 37.4% ex-centric) to L5 IEP (4% oblong vs. 94.3% ex-centric). Ex-centric ECA were always found in the posterior half of the lumbar endplates. Both the oblong and ex-centric ECD was 2-3 mm on average with the IEP of a motion segment regularly possessing the greater depth. A sex- or age-related difference could not be found. The majority of lumbar endplates are concave, while the majority of sacral endplates are flat. An oblong and an ex-centric endplate shape can be distinguished, whereby the latter is more common at the lower lumbar levels. The apex of the concavity of ex-centric discs is located in the posterior half of the endplate

  18. Impact of sagittal spinopelvic alignment on clinical outcomes after decompression surgery for lumbar spinal canal stenosis without coronal imbalance.

    PubMed

    Hikata, Tomohiro; Watanabe, Kota; Fujita, Nobuyuki; Iwanami, Akio; Hosogane, Naobumi; Ishii, Ken; Nakamura, Masaya; Toyama, Yoshiaki; Matsumoto, Morio

    2015-10-01

    .2 ± 16.7, p = 0.045; postop: 67.0 ± 25.8 vs. 49.6 ± 20.0, p = 0.001), as well as significantly higher postoperative RMDQ (4.9 ± 5.2 vs. 7.9 ± 5.7, p = 0.015) and VAS scores for low-back pain (2.68 ± 2.69 vs. 3.94 ± 2.59, p = 0.039). Preoperative sagittal balance was not significantly correlated with clinical or HRQOL outcomes after decompression surgery in LCS patients without coronal imbalance. Decompression surgery improved the SVA value in patients with preoperative sagittal imbalance; however, the patients with severe preoperative sagittal imbalance (SVA > 80 mm) had residual imbalance after decompression surgery. Both clinical and HRQOL outcomes were negatively affected by postoperative residual sagittal imbalance.

  19. Differences of Sagittal Lumbosacral Parameters between Patients with Lumbar Spondylolysis and Normal Adults

    PubMed Central

    Yin, Jin; Peng, Bao-Gan; Li, Yong-Chao; Zhang, Nai-Yang; Yang, Liang; Li, Duan-Ming

    2016-01-01

    Background: Recent studies have suggested an association between elevated pelvic incidence (PI) and the development of lumbar spondylolysis. However, there is still lack of investigation for Han Chinese people concerning the normal range of spinopelvic parameters and relationship between abnormal sagittal parameters and lumbar diseases. The objective of the study was to investigate sagittal lumbosacral parameters of adult lumbar spondylolysis patients in Han Chinese population. Methods: A total of 52 adult patients with symptomatic lumbar spondylolysis treated in the General Hospital of Armed Police Force (Beijing, China) were identified as the spondylolysis group. All the 52 patients were divided into two subgroups, Subgroup A: 36 patients with simple lumbar spondylolysis, and Subgroup B: 16 patients with lumbar spondylolysis accompanying with mild lumbar spondylolisthesis (slip percentage <30%). Altogether 207 healthy adults were chosen as the control group. All patients and the control group took lumbosacral lateral radiographs. Seven sagittal lumbosacral parameters, including PI, pelvic tilt (PT), sacral slope (SS), lumbar lordosis (LL), L5 incidence, L5 slope, and sacral table angle (STA), were measured in the lateral radiographs. All the parameters aforementioned were compared between the two subgroups and between the spondylolysis group and the control group with independent-sample t-test. Results: There were no statistically significant differences of all seven sagittal lumbosacral parameters between Subgroup A and Subgroup B. PI, PT, SS, and LL were higher (P < 0.05) in the spondylolysis group than those in the control group, but STA was lower (P < 0.001) in the spondylolysis group. Conclusions: Current study results suggest that increased PI and decreased STA may play important roles in the pathology of lumbar spondylolysis in Han Chinese population. PMID:27174324

  20. Differences of Sagittal Lumbosacral Parameters between Patients with Lumbar Spondylolysis and Normal Adults.

    PubMed

    Yin, Jin; Peng, Bao-Gan; Li, Yong-Chao; Zhang, Nai-Yang; Yang, Liang; Li, Duan-Ming

    2016-05-20

    Recent studies have suggested an association between elevated pelvic incidence (PI) and the development of lumbar spondylolysis. However, there is still lack of investigation for Han Chinese people concerning the normal range of spinopelvic parameters and relationship between abnormal sagittal parameters and lumbar diseases. The objective of the study was to investigate sagittal lumbosacral parameters of adult lumbar spondylolysis patients in Han Chinese population. A total of 52 adult patients with symptomatic lumbar spondylolysis treated in the General Hospital of Armed Police Force (Beijing, China) were identified as the spondylolysis group. All the 52 patients were divided into two subgroups, Subgroup A: 36 patients with simple lumbar spondylolysis, and Subgroup B: 16 patients with lumbar spondylolysis accompanying with mild lumbar spondylolisthesis (slip percentage <30%). Altogether 207 healthy adults were chosen as the control group. All patients and the control group took lumbosacral lateral radiographs. Seven sagittal lumbosacral parameters, including PI, pelvic tilt (PT), sacral slope (SS), lumbar lordosis (LL), L5 incidence, L5 slope, and sacral table angle (STA), were measured in the lateral radiographs. All the parameters aforementioned were compared between the two subgroups and between the spondylolysis group and the control group with independent-sample t- test. There were no statistically significant differences of all seven sagittal lumbosacral parameters between Subgroup A and Subgroup B. PI, PT, SS, and LL were higher (P < 0.05) in the spondylolysis group than those in the control group, but STA was lower (P < 0.001) in the spondylolysis group. Current study results suggest that increased PI and decreased STA may play important roles in the pathology of lumbar spondylolysis in Han Chinese population.

  1. Modic changes of the cervical spine: T1 slope and its impact on axial neck pain.

    PubMed

    Li, Jia; Qin, Shuhui; Li, Yongqian; Shen, Yong

    2017-01-01

    The purpose of the research was to evaluate cervical sagittal parameters on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in patients with Modic changes and its impact on axial neck pain. This study consisted of 266 consecutive asymptomatic or symptomatic patients with Modic changes, whose average age was 50.9±12.6 years from January 2015 to December 2016. Cervical sagittal parameters included sagittal alignment of the cervical spine (SACS), T1 slope, thoracic inlet angle (TIA), and neck tilt (NT). The Modic changes group was compared with an asymptomatic control group of 338 age- and gender-matched adults. In the Modic changes group, T1 slope was significantly higher (25.8°±6.3°) compared with that in the control group (22.5°±6.8°) ( P =0.000). However, there was no significant difference of the NT, TIA, and SACS between the two groups. Patients in the Modic changes group were more likely to have experienced historical axial neck pain compared with the control group ( P =0.000). With regard to the disc degeneration, it indicated that the disc in the Modic changes group had more severe disc degeneration ( P =0.032). T1 slope in the Modic changes group was significantly higher compared to that of the control group. The findings suggested that a higher T1 slope with broken compensation of cervical sagittal mechanism may be associated with the development of Modic changes in the cervical spine.

  2. Septin9 is involved in T-cell development and CD8+ T-cell homeostasis.

    PubMed

    Lassen, Louise Berkhoudt; Füchtbauer, Annette; Schmitz, Alexander; Sørensen, Annette Balle; Pedersen, Finn Skou; Füchtbauer, Ernst-Martin

    2013-06-01

    SEPTIN9 (SEPT9) is a filament-forming protein involved in numerous cellular processes. We have used a conditional knock out allele of Sept9 to specifically delete Sept9 in T-cells. As shown by fluorescence-activated cell sorting, loss of Sept9 at an early thymocyte stage in the thymus results in increased numbers of double-negative cells indicating that SEPT9 is involved in the transition from the double-negative stage during T-cell development. Accordingly, the relative numbers of mature T-cells in the periphery are decreased in mice with a T-cell-specific deletion of Sept9. Proliferation of Sept9-deleted CD8(+) T-cells from the spleen is decreased upon stimulation in culture. The altered T-cell homeostasis caused by the loss of Sept9 results in an increase of CD8(+) central memory T-cells.

  3. A comparison of economy and sagittal plane trunk movements among back-, back/front- and head-loading.

    PubMed

    Hudson, Sean; Cooke, Carlton; Davies, Simeon; West, Sacha; Gamieldien, Raeeq; Low, Chris; Lloyd, Ray

    2018-05-14

    It has been suggested that freedom of movement in the trunk could influence load carriage economy. This study aimed to compare the economy and sagittal plane trunk movements associated with three load carriage methods that constrain posture differently. Eighteen females walked at 3 km.h -1 with loads of 0, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15 and 20 kg carried on the back, back/front and head. Load carriage economy was assessed using the Extra Load Index (ELI). Change in sagittal plane trunk forward lean and trunk angle excursion from unloaded to loaded walking were assessed. Results show no difference in economy between methods (p = 0.483), despite differences in the change in trunk forward lean (p = 0.001) and trunk angle excursion (p = 0.021) from unloaded to loaded walking. We conclude that economy is not different among the three methods of load carriage, despite significant differences in sagittal plane trunk movements.

  4. In-Flight Calibration Methods for Temperature-Dependent Offsets in the MMS Fluxgate Magnetometers

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Bromund, K. R.; Plaschke, F.; Strangeway, R. J.; Anderson, B. J.; Huang, B. G.; Magnes, W.; Fischer, D.; Nakamura, R.; Leinweber, H. K.; Russell, C. T.; hide

    2016-01-01

    During the first dayside season of the Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) mission, the in-flight calibration process for the Fluxgate magnetometers (FGM) implemented an algorithm that selected a constant offset (zero-level) for each sensor on each orbit. This method was generally able to reduce the amplitude of residual spin tone to less than 0.2 nT within the region of interest. However, there are times when the offsets do show significant short-term variations. These variations are most prominent in the nighttime season (phase 1X), when eclipses are accompanied by offset changes as large as 1 nT. Eclipses are followed by a recovery period as long as 12 hours where the offsets continue to change as temperatures stabilize. Understanding and compensating for these changes will become critical during Phase 2 of the mission in 2017, when the nightside will become the focus of MMS science. Although there is no direct correlation between offset and temperature, the offsets are seen for the period of any given week to be well-characterized as function of instrument temperature. Using this property, a new calibration method has been developed that has proven effective in compensating for temperature-dependent offsets during phase 1X of the MMS mission and also promises to further refine calibration quality during the dayside season.

  5. In-Flight Calibration Methods for Temperature-Dependendent Offsets in the MMS Fluxgate Magnetometers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bromund, K. R.; Plaschke, F.; Strangeway, R. J.; Anderson, B. J.; Huang, B. G.; Magnes, W.; Fischer, D.; Nakamura, R.; Leinweber, H. K.; Russell, C. T.; Baumjohann, W.; Chutter, M.; Torbert, R. B.; Le, G.; Slavin, J. A.; Kepko, L.

    2016-12-01

    During the first dayside season of the Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) mission, the in-flight calibration process for the Fluxgate magnetometers (FGM) implemented an algorithm that selected a constant offset (zero-level) for each sensor on each orbit. This method was generally able to reduce the amplitude of residual spin tone to less than 0.2 nT within the region of interest. However, there are times when the offsets do show significant short-term variations. These variations are most prominent in the nighttime season (phase 1X), when eclipses are accompanied by offset changes as large as 1 nT. Eclipses are followed by a recovery period as long as 12 hours where the offsets continue to change as temperatures stabilize. Understanding and compensating for these changes will become critical during Phase 2 of the mission in 2017, when the nightside will become the focus of MMS science. Although there is no direct correlation between offset and temperature, the offsets are seen — for the period of any given week — to be well-characterized as function of instrument temperature. Using this property, a new calibration method has been developed that has proven effective in compensating for temperature-dependent offsets during phase 1X of the MMS mission and also promises to further refine calibration quality during the dayside season.

  6. Influence of lumbar lordosis restoration on thoracic curve and sagittal position in lumbar degenerative kyphosis patients.

    PubMed

    Jang, Jee-Soo; Lee, Sang-Ho; Min, Jun-Hong; Maeng, Dae Hyeon

    2009-02-01

    A retrospective study. To determine postsurgical correlations between thoracic and lumbar sagittal curves in lumbar degenerative kyphosis (LDK) and to determine predictability of spontaneous correction of thoracic curve and sacral angle after surgical restoration of lumbar lordosis and fusion. To our knowledge, there are only a limited number of articles about the relationship between thoracic and lumbar curve in sagittal thoracic compensated LDK. Retrospective review of 53 consecutive patients treated with combined anterior and posterior spinal arthrodesis. We included patients with sagittal thoracic compensated LDK caused by sagittal imbalance in this study. Total lumbar lordosis, thoracic kyphosis, sacral slope, and C7 plumb line were measured on the pre- and postoperative whole spine lateral views. Postoperative changes in thoracic kyphosis, sacral slope, and C7 plumb line according to the surgical lumbar lordosis restoration were measured and evaluated. The mean preoperative sagittal imbalance by plumb line was 78.3 mm (+/-76.5); this improved to 13.6 mm (+/-25) after surgery (P < 0.0001). Mean lumbar lordosis was 9.4 degrees (+/-19.2) before surgery and increased to 38.4 degrees (+/-13.1) at follow-up (P < 0.0001). Mean thoracic kyphosis was 1.1 degrees (+/-12.7) before surgery and increased to 17.6 degrees (+/-12.2) at follow-up (P < 0.0001). Significant preoperative correlations existed between kyphosis and lordosis (r = 0.772, P < 0.0001) and between lordosis and sacral slope (r = 0.785, P < 0.0001). Postoperative lumbar lordosis is correlated to thoracic kyphosis increase (r = 0.620, P < 0.0001). Postoperative lumbar lordosis is correlated to sacral slope increase (r = 0.722, P < 0.0001). Reciprocal relationship exists between lumbar lordosis and thoracic kyphosis in sagittal thoracic compensated LDK. Surgical restoration of lumbar lordosis for LDK brings about high level of statistical correlation to thoracic kyphosis improvement. At the same time, the

  7. Can a Single Sagittal Magnetic Resonance Imaging Slice Represent Whole Fatty Infiltration in Chronic Rotator Cuff Tears at the Supraspinatus?

    PubMed

    Lee, Yong-Beom; Yang, Cheol-Jung; Li, Cheng Zhen; Zhuan, Zhong; Kwon, Seung-Cheol; Noh, Kyu-Cheol

    2018-03-01

    This study aimed to investigate whether fatty infiltration (FI) measured on a single sagittal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) slice can represent FI of the whole supraspinatus muscle. This study retrospectively reviewed the MRIs of 106 patients (age 50-79 years) divided into three rotator cuff tear-size groups: medium, large, and massive. Fat mass and muscle mass on all T1-weighted sagittal MRI scans (FA and MA) were measured. Of the total MRI scans, the Y-view was defined as the most lateral image of the junction of the scapular spine with the scapular body on the oblique sagittal T1-weighted image. Fat mass and muscle mass seen on this Y-view single slice were recorded as F1 and M1, respectively. Fat mass and muscle mass were also assessed on MRI scans lateral and medial to the Y-view. The means of fat mass and muscle mass on these three slices were recorded as F3 and M3, respectively. Average FI ratios (fat mass/muscle mass) of the three assessment methods (F1/M1, FA/MA, and F3/M3) were compared. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated for inter- and intraobserver reliability. ICCs showed higher reliability (> 0.8) for all measurements. F1/M1 values were not statistically different from FA/MA and F3/M3 values ( p > 0.05), except in males with medium and large tears. F3/M3 and FA/MA were not statistically different. The difference between F1/M1 and FA/MA did not exceed 2%. A single sagittal MRI slice can represent the whole FI in chronic rotator cuff tears, except in some patient groups. We recommend measurement of FI using a single sagittal MRI slice, given the effort required for repeated measurements.

  8. Can a Single Sagittal Magnetic Resonance Imaging Slice Represent Whole Fatty Infiltration in Chronic Rotator Cuff Tears at the Supraspinatus?

    PubMed Central

    Lee, Yong-Beom; Yang, Cheol-Jung; Li, Cheng Zhen; Zhuan, Zhong; Kwon, Seung-Cheol

    2018-01-01

    Background This study aimed to investigate whether fatty infiltration (FI) measured on a single sagittal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) slice can represent FI of the whole supraspinatus muscle. Methods This study retrospectively reviewed the MRIs of 106 patients (age 50–79 years) divided into three rotator cuff tear-size groups: medium, large, and massive. Fat mass and muscle mass on all T1-weighted sagittal MRI scans (FA and MA) were measured. Of the total MRI scans, the Y-view was defined as the most lateral image of the junction of the scapular spine with the scapular body on the oblique sagittal T1-weighted image. Fat mass and muscle mass seen on this Y-view single slice were recorded as F1 and M1, respectively. Fat mass and muscle mass were also assessed on MRI scans lateral and medial to the Y-view. The means of fat mass and muscle mass on these three slices were recorded as F3 and M3, respectively. Average FI ratios (fat mass/muscle mass) of the three assessment methods (F1/M1, FA/MA, and F3/M3) were compared. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated for inter- and intraobserver reliability. Results ICCs showed higher reliability (> 0.8) for all measurements. F1/M1 values were not statistically different from FA/MA and F3/M3 values (p > 0.05), except in males with medium and large tears. F3/M3 and FA/MA were not statistically different. The difference between F1/M1 and FA/MA did not exceed 2%. Conclusions A single sagittal MRI slice can represent the whole FI in chronic rotator cuff tears, except in some patient groups. We recommend measurement of FI using a single sagittal MRI slice, given the effort required for repeated measurements. PMID:29564048

  9. Contact pressure in the facet joint during sagittal bending of the cadaveric cervical spine.

    PubMed

    Jaumard, Nicolas V; Bauman, Joel A; Weisshaar, Christine L; Guarino, Benjamin B; Welch, William C; Winkelstein, Beth A

    2011-07-01

    The facet joint contributes to the normal biomechanical function of the spine by transmitting loads and limiting motions via articular contact. However, little is known about the contact pressure response for this joint. Such information can provide a quantitative measure of the facet joint's local environment. The objective of this study was to measure facet pressure during physiologic bending in the cervical spine, using a joint capsule-sparing technique. Flexion and extension bending moments were applied to six human cadaveric cervical spines. Global motions (C2-T1) were defined using infra-red cameras to track markers on each vertebra. Contact pressure in the C5-C6 facet was also measured using a tip-mounted pressure transducer inserted into the joint space through a hole in the postero-inferior region of the C5 lateral mass. Facet contact pressure increased by 67.6 ± 26.9 kPa under a 2.4 Nm extension moment and decreased by 10.3 ± 9.7 kPa under a 2.7 Nm flexion moment. The mean rotation of the overall cervical specimen motion segments was 9.6 ± 0.8° and was 1.6 ± 0.7° for the C5-C6 joint, respectively, for extension. The change in pressure during extension was linearly related to both the change in moment (51.4 ± 42.6 kPa/Nm) and the change in C5-C6 angle (18.0 ± 108.9 kPa/deg). Contact pressure in the inferior region of the cervical facet joint increases during extension as the articular surfaces come in contact, and decreases in flexion as the joint opens, similar to reports in the lumbar spine despite the difference in facet orientation in those spinal regions. Joint contact pressure is linearly related to both sagittal moment and spinal rotation. Cartilage degeneration and the presence of meniscoids may account for the variation in the pressure profiles measured during physiologic sagittal bending. This study shows that cervical facet contact pressure can be directly measured with minimal disruption to the joint and is the first to provide local

  10. Metrics for Litho Photography, Offset Stripping, Offset Platemaking.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Cooper, Gloria S., Ed.; Magisos, Joel H., Ed.

    Designed to meet the job-related metric measurement needs of students interested in litho photography, offset stripping, and offset platemaking, this instructional package is one of six for the communication media occupations cluster, part of a set of 55 packages for metric instruction in different occupations. The package is intended for students…

  11. Sagittal alignment of the cervical spine after neck injury.

    PubMed

    Beltsios, Michail; Savvidou, Olga; Mitsiokapa, Evanthia A; Mavrogenis, Andreas F; Kaspiris, Angelos; Efstathopoulos, Nikolaos; Papagelopoulos, Panayiotis J

    2013-07-01

    The normal sagittal alignment of the cervical spine is lordotic and is affected by the posture of the head and neck. The question of whether loss of cervical lordosis is the result of muscle spasm after injury or a normal variation, and the clinical significance of such changes in sagittal profile of the cervical spine has been an issue of several studies. The purpose of this paper is to study the incidence of normal cervical lordosis and its changes after neck injury compared to the healthy population. We studied the lateral radiographs of the cervical spine of 60 patients with neck injury compared to 100 patients without a neck injury. Lateral radiographs were obtained in the standing or sitting position, and the curvature of the cervical spine was measured using the angle formed between the inferior end plates of the C2 and C7 vertebrae. In the patients without neck injury, lordotic and straight cervical spine sagittal alignment was observed in 36.5% each, double curvature in 17%, and kyphotic in 10%. In the patients with neck injury, lordotic sagittal alignment was observed in 36%, straight in 34%, double curvature in 26% and kyphotic in 4%. No significant difference between the two groups regarding all types of sagittal alignment of the cervical spine was found (p > 0.100). The alterations in normal cervical lordosis in patients with neck injury must be considered coincidental. These alterations should not be associated with muscle spasm caused by neck pain.

  12. Diffraction crystal for sagittally focusing x-rays

    DOEpatents

    Ice, Gene E.; Sparks, Jr., Cullie J.

    1984-01-01

    The invention is a new type of diffraction crystal designed for sagittally focusing photons of various energies. The invention is based on the discovery that such focusing is not obtainable with conventional crystals because of distortion resulting from anticlastic curvature. The new crystal comprises a monocrystalline base having a front face contoured for sagittally focusing photons and a back face provided with rigid, upstanding, stiffening ribs restricting anticlastic curvature. When mounted in a suitable bending device, the reflecting face of the crystal can be adjusted to focus photons having any one of a range of energies.

  13. Diffraction crystals for sagittally focusing x-rays

    DOEpatents

    Ice, G.E.; Sparks, C.J. Jr.

    1982-06-07

    The invention is a new type of diffraction crystal designed for sagittally focusing photons of various energies. The invention is based on the discovery that such focusing is not obtainable with conventional crystals because of distortion resulting from anticlastic curvature. The new crystal comprises a monocrystalline base having a front face contoured for sagittally focusing photons and a back face provided with rigid, upstanding, stiffening ribs restricting anticlastic curvature. When mounted in a suitable bending device, the reflecting face of the crystal can be adjusted to focus photons having any one of a range of energies.

  14. Sagittal plane tilting deformity of the patellofemoral joint: a new concept in patients with chondromalacia patella.

    PubMed

    Aksahin, Ertugrul; Aktekin, Cem Nuri; Kocadal, Onur; Duran, Semra; Gunay, Cüneyd; Kaya, Defne; Hapa, Onur; Pepe, Murad

    2017-10-01

    The aims of this study were to evaluate sagittal plane alignment in patients with chondromalacia patella via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), analyse the relationships between the location of the patellar cartilaginous lesions and sagittal alignment and finally investigate the relationships between the sagittal plane malalignment and patellofemoral loadings using by finite element analysis. Fifty-one patients who were diagnosed with isolated modified Outerbridge grade 3-4 patellar chondromalacia based on MRI evaluation and 51 control subjects were evaluated. Chondromalacia patella patients were divided into three subgroups according to the chondral lesion location as superior, middle and inferior. The patella-patellar tendon angle (P-PT) was used for evaluation of sagittal alignment of patellofemoral joint. Each subgroup was compared with control group by using P-PT angle. To investigate the biomechanical effects of sagittal plane malpositioning on patellofemoral joint, bone models were created at 30°, 60° and 90° knee flexion by using mean P-PT angles, which obtained from patients with chondromalacia patellae and control subjects. The total loading and contact area values of the patellofemoral joints were investigated by finite element analysis. The mean age of all participants was 52.9 ± 8.2 years. The mean P-PT angle was significantly lower in chondromalacia group (142.1° ± 3.6°) compared to control group (144.5° ± 5.3°) (p = 0.008). Chondral lesions were located in superior, middle and inferior zones in 16, 20 and 15 patients, respectively. The mean P-PT angles in patients with superior (141.8 ± 2.7) and inferior subgroups (139.2 ± 2.3) were significantly lower than the values in the control group (p < 0.05). The contact area values were detected higher in models with chondromalacia than in the control models at the same flexion degrees. There were increased loadings at 30° and 90° flexions in the sagittal patellar tilt models

  15. Sagittal band, boutonniere, and pulley injuries in the athlete.

    PubMed

    Grandizio, Louis Christopher; Klena, Joel Christian

    2017-03-01

    While hand injuries occur frequently in the athletic population, sagittal band ruptures, boutonniere deformities, and pulley ruptures are infrequently encountered. These injuries represent diagnostic challenges and can result in significant impairment. Early recognition with appropriate treatment is necessary to maximize recovery and minimize return to athletic competition. This review will focus on the underlying mechanism, pathophysiology of injury, diagnosis, and treatment of each of these injuries. With respect to sagittal band ruptures, boutonniere deformities, and pulley ruptures, the recent literature has been limited in scope. For sagittal band injuries, current efforts have focused on alternative techniques for sagittal band reconstruction. Little progress has been made in recent years with respect to boutonniere injuries in the athletic population; prevention of fixed deformities remains the backbone of treatment. The exact contribution from individual and combined pulley injuries in the creation of bowstringing remains controversial. Recent anatomical studies have failed to definitively answer the question of what degree of rupture is necessary to create symptomatic bowstringing. Favorable outcomes, with respect to both preventing bowstringing and returning to full athletic participation, have been newly reported following pulley reconstruction in rock climbers. Due to the infrequent nature of sagittal band ruptures, boutonniere deformities, and pulley ruptures, current treatment is mostly guided by historically established methods, limited case series, and case reports. Nonsurgical treatment remains the mainstay for most injuries and, if employed early, often precludes the need for surgery. Further anatomical and clinical research, including outcome studies, is necessary in guiding treatment algorithms.

  16. Sagittal-lung CT measurements in the evaluation of asthma-COPD overlap syndrome: a distinctive phenotype from COPD alone.

    PubMed

    Qu, Yanjuan; Cao, Yiyuan; Liao, Meiyan; Lu, Zhiyan

    2017-07-01

    This study aimed at investigating the capability of sagittal-lung computed tomography (CT) measurements in differentiating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma-COPD overlap syndrome (ACOS). Clinical and high-resolution CT of 229 patients including 123 pure COPD patients and 106 ACOS patients were included. Sagittal-lung CT measurements in terms of bilateral lung height (LH), anterior-posterior lung diameter (APLD), diaphragm height (DH), and anterior sterno-diaphragmatic angle (ASDA), as well as inter-pulmonary septum length (IPSL) on axial images were measured both before and after bronchodilator (BD) administration. Comparisons of clinical characteristics and CT measurements between patient groups were performed. All pre-BD quantitative sagittal features measuring diaphragm flattening and hyperinflation were not significantly different between patients with COPD and patients with ACOS (P values all >0.05). Following BD administration, the ACOS patients exhibited lower left LH, bilateral APLD, and bilateral ASDA, but higher right DH, compared to pure COPD patients (P values all <0.05). Right LH, left DH and IPSL were not significantly different between patient groups. Besides, variations of all sagittal-lung CT measurements were significantly larger in patients with ACOS than in patients with pure COPD (P values all <0.001) and showed high performance in differentiating these two kinds of patient, with diagnostic sensitivities ranging from 76.4 to 97.2%, specificities ranging from 86.2 to 100.0%, and accuracies ranging from 80.9 to 90.7%. Sagittal-lung CT measurements allow for differentiating patients with ACOS from those with pure COPD. The ACOS patients had larger post-BD variations of sagittal-lung CT measurements than patients with pure COPD.

  17. Normal variation in sagittal spinal alignment parameters in adult patients: an EOS study using serial imaging.

    PubMed

    Hey, Hwee Weng Dennis; Tan, Kian Loong Melvin; Moorthy, Vikaesh; Lau, Eugene Tze-Chun; Lau, Leok-Lim; Liu, Gabriel; Wong, Hee-Kit

    2018-03-01

    To describe normal variations in sagittal spinal radiographic parameters over an interval period and establish physiological norms and guidelines for which these images should be interpreted. Data were prospectively collected from a continuous series of adult patients with first-episode mild low back pain presenting to a single institution. The sagittal parameters of two serial radiographic images taken 6-months apart were obtained with the EOS ® slot scanner. Measured parameters include CL, TK, TL, LL, PI, PT, SS, and end and apical vertebrae. Chi-squared test and Wilcoxon Signed Rank test were used to compare categorical and continuous variables, respectively. Sixty patients with a total of 120 whole-body sagittal X-rays were analysed. Mean age was 52.1 years (SD 21.2). Mean interval between the first and second X-rays was 126.2 days (SD 47.2). Small variations (< 1°) occur for all except PT (1.2°), CL (1.2°), and SVA (2.9 cm). Pelvic tilt showed significant difference between two images (p = 0.035). Subgroup analysis based on the time interval between X-rays, and between the first and second X-rays, did not show significant differences. Consistent findings were found for end and apical vertebrae of the thoracic and lumbar spine between the first and second X-rays for sagittal curve shapes. Radiographic sagittal parameters vary between serial images and reflect dynamism in spinal balancing. SVA and PT are predisposed to the widest variation. SVA has the largest variation between individuals of low pelvic tilt. Therefore, interpretation of these parameters should be patient specific and relies on trends rather than a one-time assessment.

  18. The association between whole body sagittal balance and risk of falls among elderly patients seeking treatment for back pain.

    PubMed

    Kim, J; Hwang, J Y; Oh, J K; Park, M S; Kim, S W; Chang, H; Kim, T-H

    2017-05-01

    The objective of this study was to assess the association between whole body sagittal balance and risk of falls in elderly patients who have sought treatment for back pain. Balanced spinal sagittal alignment is known to be important for the prevention of falls. However, spinal sagittal imbalance can be markedly compensated by the lower extremities, and whole body sagittal balance including the lower extremities should be assessed to evaluate actual imbalances related to falls. Patients over 70 years old who visited an outpatient clinic for back pain treatment and underwent a standing whole-body radiograph were enrolled. Falls were prospectively assessed for 12 months using a monthly fall diary, and patients were divided into fallers and non-fallers according to the history of falls. Radiological parameters from whole-body radiographs and clinical data were compared between the two groups. A total of 144 patients (120 female patients and 24 male patients) completed a 12-month follow-up for assessing falls. A total of 31 patients (21.5%) reported at least one fall within the 12-month follow-up. In univariate logistic regression analysis, the risk of falls was significantly increased in older patients and those with more medical comorbidities, decreased lumbar lordosis, increased sagittal vertical axis, and increased horizontal distance between the C7 plumb line and the centre of the ankle (C7A). Increased C7A was significantly associated with increased risk of falls even after multivariate adjustment. Whole body sagittal balance, measured by the horizontal distance between the C7 plumb line and the centre of the ankle, was significantly associated with risk of falls among elderly patients with back pain. Cite this article : J. Kim, J. Y. Hwang, J. K. Oh, M. S. Park, S. W. Kim, H. Chang, T-H. Kim. The association between whole body sagittal balance and risk of falls among elderly patients seeking treatment for back pain. Bone Joint Res 2017;6:-344. DOI: 10

  19. Great apes and biodiversity offset projects in Africa: the case for national offset strategies.

    PubMed

    Kormos, Rebecca; Kormos, Cyril F; Humle, Tatyana; Lanjouw, Annette; Rainer, Helga; Victurine, Ray; Mittermeier, Russell A; Diallo, Mamadou S; Rylands, Anthony B; Williamson, Elizabeth A

    2014-01-01

    The development and private sectors are increasingly considering "biodiversity offsets" as a strategy to compensate for their negative impacts on biodiversity, including impacts on great apes and their habitats in Africa. In the absence of national offset policies in sub-Saharan Africa, offset design and implementation are guided by company internal standards, lending bank standards or international best practice principles. We examine four projects in Africa that are seeking to compensate for their negative impacts on great ape populations. Our assessment of these projects reveals that not all apply or implement best practices, and that there is little standardization in the methods used to measure losses and gains in species numbers. Even if they were to follow currently accepted best-practice principles, we find that these actions may still fail to contribute to conservation objectives over the long term. We advocate for an alternative approach in which biodiversity offset and compensation projects are designed and implemented as part of a National Offset Strategy that (1) takes into account the cumulative impacts of development in individual countries, (2) identifies priority offset sites, (3) promotes aggregated offsets, and (4) integrates biodiversity offset and compensation projects with national biodiversity conservation objectives. We also propose supplementary principles necessary for biodiversity offsets to contribute to great ape conservation in Africa. Caution should still be exercised, however, with regard to offsets until further field-based evidence of their effectiveness is available.

  20. Temperature offset control system

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Fried, M.

    1987-07-28

    This patent describes a temperature offset control system for controlling the operation of both heating and air conditioning systems simultaneously contained within the same premises each of which is set by local thermostats to operate at an appropriate temperature, the offset control system comprising: a central control station having means for presetting an offset temperature range, means for sensing the temperature at a central location, means for comparing the sensed temperature with the offset temperature range, means responsive to the comparison for producing a control signal indicative of whether the sensed temperature is within the offset temperature range or beyondmore » the offset temperature range, and means for transmitting the control signal onto the standard energy lines servicing the premises; and a receiving station respectively associated with each heating and air conditioning system, the receiving stations each comprising means for receiving the same transmitted control signal from the energy lines, and switch means for controlling the energization of the respective system in response to the received control signal. The heating systems and associated local thermostat are disabled by the control signal when the control signal originates from a sensed temperature above the lower end of the offset temperature range. The air conditioning systems and associated thermostats are disabled by the same control signal when the control signal originates from a sensed temperature below the upper end of the offset temperature range.« less

  1. Sci-Thur AM: YIS – 03: Combining sagittally-reconstructed 3D and live-2D ultrasound for high-dose-rate prostate brachytherapy needle segmentation

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Hrinivich, Thomas; Hoover, Douglas; Surry, Kathlee

    Ultrasound-guided high-dose-rate prostate brachytherapy (HDR-BT) needle segmentation is performed clinically using live-2D sagittal images. Organ segmentation is then performed using axial images, introducing a source of geometric uncertainty. Sagittally-reconstructed 3D (SR3D) ultrasound enables both needle and organ segmentation, but suffers from shadow artifacts. We present a needle segmentation technique augmenting SR3D with live-2D sagittal images using mechanical probe tracking to mitigate image artifacts and compare it to the clinical standard. Seven prostate cancer patients underwent TRUS-guided HDR-BT during which the clinical and proposed segmentation techniques were completed in parallel using dual ultrasound video outputs. Calibrated needle end-length measurements were usedmore » to calculate insertion depth errors (IDEs), and the dosimetric impact of IDEs was evaluated by perturbing clinical treatment plan source positions. The proposed technique provided smaller IDEs than the clinical approach, with mean±SD of −0.3±2.2 mm and −0.5±3.7mm respectively. The proposed and clinical techniques resulted in 84% and 43% of needles with IDEs within ±3mm, and IDE ranges across all needles of [−7.7mm, 5.9mm] and [−9.3mm, 7.7mm] respectively. The proposed and clinical IDEs lead to mean±SD changes in the volume of the prostate receiving the prescription dose of −0.6±0.9% and −2.0±5.3% respectively. The proposed technique provides improved HDR-BT needle segmentation accuracy over the clinical technique leading to decreased dosimetric uncertainty by eliminating the axial-to-sagittal registration, and mitigates the effect of shadow artifacts by incorporating mechanically registered live-2D sagittal images.« less

  2. Sagittal plane bending moments acting on the lower leg during running.

    PubMed

    Haris Phuah, Affendi; Schache, Anthony G; Crossley, Kay M; Wrigley, Tim V; Creaby, Mark W

    2010-02-01

    Sagittal bending moments acting on the lower leg during running may play a role in tibial stress fracture development. The purpose of this study was to evaluate these moments at nine equidistant points along the length of the lower leg (10% point-90% point) during running. Kinematic and ground reaction force data were collected for 20 male runners, who each performed 10 running trials. Inverse dynamics and musculoskeletal modelling techniques were used to estimate sagittal bending moments due to reaction forces and muscle contraction. The muscle moment was typically positive during stance, except at the most proximal location (10% point) on the lower leg. The reaction moment was predominantly negative throughout stance and greater in magnitude than the muscle moment. Hence, the net sagittal bending moment acting on the lower leg was principally negative (indicating tensile loads on the posterior tibia). Peak moments typically occurred around mid-stance, and were greater in magnitude at the distal, compared with proximal, lower leg. For example, the peak reaction moment at the most distal point was -9.61+ or - 2.07%Bw.Ht., and -2.73 + or - 1.18%Bw.Ht. at the most proximal point. These data suggest that tensile loads on the posterior tibia are likely to be higher toward the distal end of the bone. This finding may explain the higher incidence of stress fracture in the distal aspect of the tibia, observed by some authors. Stress fracture susceptibility will also be influenced by bone strength and this should also be accounted for in future studies. Copyright 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  3. Sagittal Vertical Axias, Spinosacral Angle, Spinopelvic Angle, and T1 Pelvic Angle: Which Parameters May Effectively Predict the Quality of Life in Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients With Thoracolumbar Kyphosis?

    PubMed

    Zhang, Yun-Peng; Qian, Bang-Ping; Qiu, Yong; Qu, Zhe; Mao, Sai-Hu; Jiang, Jun; Zhu, Ze-Zhang

    2017-08-01

    This is a retrospective study. To identify the relationship between global sagittal alignment and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients with thoracolumbar kyphosis. Little data are available on correlation between global sagittal alignment and HRQoL in AS. A total of 107 AS patients were included in this study. The radiographic parameters were measured on lateral radiographs of the whole spine, including sagittal vertical axias (SVA), spinosacral angle (SSA), spinopelvic angle (SPA), and T1 pelvic angle (TPA). HRQoL was assessed using the oswestry disability index questionnaire, the bath ankylosing spondylitis disease activity index, the bath ankylosing spondylitis functional index, and short form-36 questionnaire. The patients were divided into 2 groups: group A (n=76, global kyphosis≤70 degrees), group B (n=31, global kyphosis>70 degrees). Statistical analysis was performed to identify significant differences between these 2 groups. In addition, correlation analysis and multiple regression analysis between radiologic parameters and clinical questionnaires were conducted. With respect to SVA, SSA, SPA, TPA, and HRQoL scores, significant differences were observed between 2 groups (P<0.05). Also, SVA, SSA, SPA, and TPA were significantly related to HRQoL. Multiple regression analysis revealed that SVA, SSA, SPA, and TPA were significant parameters in the prediction of HRQoL in AS patients with thoracolumbar kyphosis. Of note, HRQoL related much more to SSA and SPA than SVA and TPA. AS patients with moderate and severe deformity were demonstrated to be significantly different in terms of SVA, SSA, SPA, TPA, and HRQoL. Moreover, SVA, SSA, SPA, and TPA correlated with HRQoL significantly. In particular, SSA and SPA could better predict HRQoL than SVA and TPA in AS patients with thoracolumbar kyphosis.

  4. Great Apes and Biodiversity Offset Projects in Africa: The Case for National Offset Strategies

    PubMed Central

    Kormos, Rebecca; Kormos, Cyril F.; Humle, Tatyana; Lanjouw, Annette; Rainer, Helga; Victurine, Ray; Mittermeier, Russell A.; Diallo, Mamadou S.; Rylands, Anthony B.; Williamson, Elizabeth A.

    2014-01-01

    The development and private sectors are increasingly considering “biodiversity offsets” as a strategy to compensate for their negative impacts on biodiversity, including impacts on great apes and their habitats in Africa. In the absence of national offset policies in sub-Saharan Africa, offset design and implementation are guided by company internal standards, lending bank standards or international best practice principles. We examine four projects in Africa that are seeking to compensate for their negative impacts on great ape populations. Our assessment of these projects reveals that not all apply or implement best practices, and that there is little standardization in the methods used to measure losses and gains in species numbers. Even if they were to follow currently accepted best-practice principles, we find that these actions may still fail to contribute to conservation objectives over the long term. We advocate for an alternative approach in which biodiversity offset and compensation projects are designed and implemented as part of a National Offset Strategy that (1) takes into account the cumulative impacts of development in individual countries, (2) identifies priority offset sites, (3) promotes aggregated offsets, and (4) integrates biodiversity offset and compensation projects with national biodiversity conservation objectives. We also propose supplementary principles necessary for biodiversity offsets to contribute to great ape conservation in Africa. Caution should still be exercised, however, with regard to offsets until further field-based evidence of their effectiveness is available. PMID:25372894

  5. Relationship Between T1 Slope and Cervical Alignment Following Multilevel Posterior Cervical Fusion Surgery: Impact of T1 Slope Minus Cervical Lordosis.

    PubMed

    Hyun, Seung-Jae; Kim, Ki-Jeong; Jahng, Tae-Ahn; Kim, Hyun-Jib

    2016-04-01

    Retrospective study. To assess the relationship between sagittal alignment of the cervical spine and patient-reported health-related quality-of-life scores following multilevel posterior cervical fusion, and to explore whether an analogous relationship exists in the cervical spine using T1 slope minus C2-C7 lordosis (T1S-CL). A recent study demonstrated that, similar to the thoracolumbar spine, the severity of disability increases with sagittal malalignment following cervical reconstruction surgery. From 2007 to 2013, 38 consecutive patients underwent multilevel posterior cervical fusion for cervical stenosis, myelopathy, and deformities. Radiographic measurements included C0-C2 lordosis, C2-C7 lordosis, C2-C7 sagittal vertical axis (SVA), T1 slope, and T1S-CL. Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated between pairs of radiographic measures and health-related quality-of-life. C2-C7 SVA positively correlated with neck disability index (NDI) scores (r = 0.495). C2-C7 lordosis (P = 0.001) and T1S-CL (P = 0.002) changes correlated with NDI score changes after surgery. For significant correlations between C2-C7 SVA and NDI scores, regression models predicted a threshold C2-C7 SVA value of 50 mm, beyond which correlations were most significant. The T1S-CL also correlated positively with C2-C7 SVA and NDI scores (r = 0.871 and r = 0.470, respectively). Results of the regression analysis indicated that a C2-C7 SVA value of 50 mm corresponded to a T1S-CL value of 26.1°. This study showed that disability of the neck increased with cervical sagittal malalignment following surgical reconstruction and a greater T1S-CL mismatch was associated with a greater degree of cervical malalignment. Specifically, a mismatch greater than 26.1° corresponded to positive cervical sagittal malalignment, defined as C2-C7 SVA greater than 50 mm. 3.

  6. What Issues Does the Czech Republic Face Concerning Offsets in the Context of Military Purchases?

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2006-09-01

    of CZK 19.650 billion; approximately USD 0.9 billion)1. Countertrade is an immense, pervasive business practice, involving huge numbers of people...overwhelmed with various terms: direct and indirect offsets, countertrade , bilateral government trade, compensatory arrangements, clearing arrangements...34Coproduction, Barter, and Countertrade : Offsets in the International Arms Market," (Orbis, 1985), 29. 8 1. The Meaning of Offsets, Definitions and

  7. T1ρ MRI Quantification of Arthroscopically-Confirmed Cartilage Degeneration

    PubMed Central

    Witschey, Walter RT; Borthakur, Arijitt; Fenty, Matt; Kneeland, J Bruce; Lonner, Jess H; McArdle, Erin L.; Sochor, Matt; Reddy, Ravinder

    2010-01-01

    9 asymptomatic subjects and 6 patients underwent T1ρ MRI to determine whether Outerbridge grade 1 or 2 cartilage degeneration observed during arthroscopy could be detected noninvasively. MRI was performed 2–3 months post-arthroscopy using sagittal T1-weighted and axial and coronal T1ρ MRI from which spatial T1ρ relaxation maps were calculated from segmented T1-weighted images. Median T1ρ relaxation times of patients with arthroscopically documented cartilage degeneration and asymptomatic subjects were significantly different (p < 0.001) and median T1ρ exceeded asymptomatic articular cartilage median T1ρ by 2.5 to 9.2 ms. In 8 observations of mild cartilage degeneration at arthroscopy (Outerbridge grades 1 and 2), mean compartment T1ρ was elevated in 5, but in all observations, large foci of increased T1ρ were observed. It was determined that T1ρ could detect some, but not all, Outerbridge grade 1 and 2 cartilage degeneration but that a larger patient population is needed to determine the sensitivity to these changes. PMID:20432308

  8. Comprehensive Analysis of Mandibular Residual Asymmetry after Bilateral Sagittal Split Ramus Osteotomy Correction of Menton Point Deviation

    PubMed Central

    Lin, Qiuping; Huang, Xiaoqiong; Xu, Yue; Yang, Xiaoping

    2016-01-01

    Purpose Facial asymmetry often persists even after mandibular deviation corrected by the bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy (BSSRO) operation, since the reference facial sagittal plane for the asymmetry analysis is usually set up before the mandibular menton (Me) point correction. Our aim is to develop a predictive and quantitative method to assess the true asymmetry of the mandible after a midline correction performed by a virtual BSSRO, and to verify its availability by evaluation of the post-surgical improvement. Patients and Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted at the Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University (China) of patients with pure hemi-mandibular elongation (HE) from September 2010 through May 2014. Mandibular models were reconstructed from CBCT images of patients with pre-surgical orthodontic treatment. After mandibular de-rotation and midline alignment with virtual BSSRO, the elongation hemi-mandible was virtually mirrored along the facial sagittal plane. The residual asymmetry, defined as the superimposition and boolean operation of the mirrored elongation side on the normal side, was calculated, including the volumetric differences and the length of transversal and vertical asymmetry discrepancy. For more specific evaluation, both sides of the hemi-mandible were divided into the symphysis and parasymphysis (SP), mandibular body (MB), and mandibular angle (MA) regions. Other clinical variables include deviation of Me point, dental midline and molar relationship. The measurement of volumetric discrepancy between the two sides of post-surgical hemi-mandible were also calculated to verify the availability of virtual surgery. Paired t-tests were computed and the P value was set at .05. Results This study included 45 patients. The volume differences were 407.8±64.8 mm3, 2139.1±72.5 mm3, and 422.5±36.9 mm3; residual average transversal discrepancy, 1.9 mm, 1.0 mm, and 2.2 mm; average vertical discrepancy, 1.1 mm, 2.2 mm, and 2

  9. Comprehensive Analysis of Mandibular Residual Asymmetry after Bilateral Sagittal Split Ramus Osteotomy Correction of Menton Point Deviation.

    PubMed

    Lin, Han; Zhu, Ping; Lin, Qiuping; Huang, Xiaoqiong; Xu, Yue; Yang, Xiaoping

    2016-01-01

    Facial asymmetry often persists even after mandibular deviation corrected by the bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy (BSSRO) operation, since the reference facial sagittal plane for the asymmetry analysis is usually set up before the mandibular menton (Me) point correction. Our aim is to develop a predictive and quantitative method to assess the true asymmetry of the mandible after a midline correction performed by a virtual BSSRO, and to verify its availability by evaluation of the post-surgical improvement. A retrospective cohort study was conducted at the Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University (China) of patients with pure hemi-mandibular elongation (HE) from September 2010 through May 2014. Mandibular models were reconstructed from CBCT images of patients with pre-surgical orthodontic treatment. After mandibular de-rotation and midline alignment with virtual BSSRO, the elongation hemi-mandible was virtually mirrored along the facial sagittal plane. The residual asymmetry, defined as the superimposition and boolean operation of the mirrored elongation side on the normal side, was calculated, including the volumetric differences and the length of transversal and vertical asymmetry discrepancy. For more specific evaluation, both sides of the hemi-mandible were divided into the symphysis and parasymphysis (SP), mandibular body (MB), and mandibular angle (MA) regions. Other clinical variables include deviation of Me point, dental midline and molar relationship. The measurement of volumetric discrepancy between the two sides of post-surgical hemi-mandible were also calculated to verify the availability of virtual surgery. Paired t-tests were computed and the P value was set at .05. This study included 45 patients. The volume differences were 407.8±64.8 mm3, 2139.1±72.5 mm3, and 422.5±36.9 mm3; residual average transversal discrepancy, 1.9 mm, 1.0 mm, and 2.2 mm; average vertical discrepancy, 1.1 mm, 2.2 mm, and 2.2 mm (before virtual surgery). The

  10. Training intensity and sagittal curvature of the spine in male and female artistic gymnasts.

    PubMed

    Sanz-Mengibar, Jose M; Sainz-de-Baranda, Pilar; Santonja-Medina, Fernando

    2018-04-01

    Specific adaptations of the spine in the sagittal plane have been described according to different sports disciplines. The goal of this study was to describe the integrative diagnosis of the sagittal morphotype of the spine in male and female artistic gymnasts. Forty-eight gymnasts were measured with an inclinometer. Thoracic and lumbar curves were quantified in standing position, in Sit and Reach and Slump Sitting in order to assess the sagittal spine posture and analyze if adaptations were related to training intensity. Correlation values of the sagittal plane spine measurements showed significantly increased thoracic kyphosis in men (-0.445, P<0.001). No significant correlations have been found between training hours per year or training volume and any measurements of the spine on the sagittal plane. When data from the two sitting tests were integrated, 62.5% of gymnasts had a functional thoracic kyphosis and 39.6% had lumbar kyphotic attitude. Our hypothesis has only been partially confirmed, because training intensity did not influence the sagittal curvatures in artistic gymnastics; however, this sport seems to cause specific adaptations in postural hypolordosis, functional thoracic kyphosis and lumbar kyphotic attitude during sitting and trunk flexion. The implications of the functional adaptations observed in our results may require a preventive intervention in male and female artistic gymnasts can be assessed with the integrative diagnosis of the sagittal morphotype of the spine.

  11. Conventional over-the-top-aiming devices with short offset fail to hit the center of the human femoral ACL footprint in medial portal technique, whereas medial-portal-aiming devices with larger offset hit the center reliably.

    PubMed

    Domnick, Christoph; Herbort, Mirco; Raschke, Michael J; Bremer, Susanne; Schliemann, Benedikt; Petersen, Wolf; Zantop, Thore

    2016-04-01

    Aim of this study was to investigate the accuracy of a conventional over-the-top-guide (OTG) with a typically short offset to hit the center of the native femoral ACL footprint through the anteromedial portal in comparison to a specific medial-portal-aimer (MPA) with larger offset. In 20 matched human cadaveric knees, insertion sites of the ACL were marked in medial arthrotomy. An OTG with an offset of 5.5 mm, respectively, the MPA with 9 mm offset was used in a medial portal approach to locate the center of a single bundle ACL reconstruction tunnel with k-wires. Distances from the footprint center, the OTG drilling and the MPA drilling to the roof of the intercondylar notch and to the deep cartilage margin were determined. After positioning of radiological markers, radiographic analysis was performed according to the quadrant technique as described by Bernard and Hertel. The distance from ACL origin to the roof of the notch was 10.3 (±2.1) mm, in the OTG group 6.7 (±1.5) mm and in the MPA group 9.6 (±1.9) mm. The distance to the deep cartilage margin was 9.5 (±1.7) mm from ACL origin, 4.8 (±1.3) mm with OTG and 8.7 (±1.4) mm with MPA. There were statistically significant differences between the distances of the footprint center and the OTG group after measuring and also after radiographic analysis (p < 0.0001). Using the MPA, no significant different distances in comparison to the anatomical ACL center were found (p > 0.0001). There was an increased risk for femoral blow (9/10 vs. 0/10) in the OTG group after overdrilling with a 9 mm drill. Short (5.5 mm) offset femoral aiming devices fail to locate the native ACL footprint center in medial portal approach with an increased risk for femoral blowout when overdrilling. The special medial-portal-aiming device with 9 mm offset hit the center reliably.

  12. Sagittal imbalance in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis and outcomes after simple decompression surgery.

    PubMed

    Shin, E Kyung; Kim, Chi Heon; Chung, Chun Kee; Choi, Yunhee; Yim, Dahae; Jung, Whei; Park, Sung Bae; Moon, Jung Hyeon; Heo, Won; Kim, Sung-Mi

    2017-02-01

    Lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) is the most common lumbar degenerative disease, and sagittal imbalance is uncommon. Forward-bending posture, which is primarily caused by buckling of the ligamentum flavum, may be improved via simple decompression surgery. The objectives of this study were to identify the risk factors for sagittal imbalance and to describe the outcomes of simple decompression surgery. This is a retrospective nested case-control study PATIENT SAMPLE: This was a retrospective study that included 83 consecutive patients (M:F=46:37; mean age, 68.5±7.7 years) who underwent decompression surgery and a minimum of 12 months of follow-up. The primary end point was normalization of sagittal imbalance after decompression surgery. Sagittal imbalance was defined as a C7 sagittal vertical axis (SVA) ≥40 mm on a 36-inch-long lateral whole spine radiograph. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify the risk factors for sagittal imbalance. Bilateral decompression was performed via a unilateral approach with a tubular retractor. The SVA was measured on serial radiographs performed 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. The prognostic factors for sagittal balance recovery were determined based on various clinical and radiological parameters. Sagittal imbalance was observed in 54% (45/83) of patients, and its risk factors were old age and a large mismatch between pelvic incidence and lumbar lordosis. The 1-year normalization rate was 73% after decompression surgery, and the median time to normalization was 1 to 3 months. Patients who did not experience SVA normalization exhibited low thoracic kyphosis (hazard ratio [HR], 1.04; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.02-1.10) (p<.01) and spondylolisthesis (HR, 0.33; 95% CI, 0.17-0.61) before surgery. Sagittal imbalance was observed in more than 50% of LSS patients, but this imbalance was correctable via simple decompression surgery in 70% of patients. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Precision and accuracy of age estimates obtained from anal fin spines, dorsal fin spines, and sagittal otoliths for known-age largemouth bass

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Klein, Zachary B.; Bonvechio, Timothy F.; Bowen, Bryant R.; Quist, Michael C.

    2017-01-01

    Sagittal otoliths are the preferred aging structure for Micropterus spp. (black basses) in North America because of the accurate and precise results produced. Typically, fisheries managers are hesitant to use lethal aging techniques (e.g., otoliths) to age rare species, trophy-size fish, or when sampling in small impoundments where populations are small. Therefore, we sought to evaluate the precision and accuracy of 2 non-lethal aging structures (i.e., anal fin spines, dorsal fin spines) in comparison to that of sagittal otoliths from known-age Micropterus salmoides (Largemouth Bass; n = 87) collected from the Ocmulgee Public Fishing Area, GA. Sagittal otoliths exhibited the highest concordance with true ages of all structures evaluated (coefficient of variation = 1.2; percent agreement = 91.9). Similarly, the low coefficient of variation (0.0) and high between-reader agreement (100%) indicate that age estimates obtained from sagittal otoliths were the most precise. Relatively high agreement between readers for anal fin spines (84%) and dorsal fin spines (81%) suggested the structures were relatively precise. However, age estimates from anal fin spines and dorsal fin spines exhibited low concordance with true ages. Although use of sagittal otoliths is a lethal technique, this method will likely remain the standard for aging Largemouth Bass and other similar black bass species.

  14. Attribution of precipitation changes on ground-air temperature offset: Granger causality analysis

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cermak, Vladimir; Bodri, Louise

    2018-01-01

    This work examines the causal relationship between the value of the ground-air temperature offset and the precipitation changes for monitored 5-min data series together with their hourly and daily averages obtained at the Sporilov Geophysical Observatory (Prague). Shallow subsurface soil temperatures were monitored under four different land cover types (bare soil, sand, short-cut grass and asphalt). The ground surface temperature (GST) and surface air temperature (SAT) offset, Δ T(GST-SAT), is defined as the difference between the temperature measured at the depth of 2 cm below the surface and the air temperature measured at 5 cm above the surface. The results of the Granger causality test did not reveal any evidence of Granger causality for precipitation to ground-air temperature offsets on the daily scale of aggregation except for the asphalt pavement. On the contrary, a strong evidence of Granger causality for precipitation to the ground-air temperature offsets was found on the hourly scale of aggregation for all land cover types except for the sand surface cover. All results are sensitive to the lag choice of the autoregressive model. On the whole, obtained results contain valuable information on the delay time of Δ T(GST-SAT) caused by the rainfall events and confirmed the importance of using autoregressive models to understand the ground-air temperature relationship.

  15. Offsetting the impacts of mining to achieve no net loss of native vegetation.

    PubMed

    Sonter, L J; Barrett, D J; Soares-Filho, B S

    2014-08-01

    Offsets are a novel conservation tool, yet using them to achieve no net loss of biodiversity is challenging. This is especially true when using conservation offsets (i.e., protected areas) because achieving no net loss requires avoiding equivalent loss. Our objective was to determine if offsetting the impacts of mining achieves no net loss of native vegetation in Brazil's largest iron mining region. We used a land-use change model to simulate deforestation by mining to 2020; developed a model to allocate conservation offsets to the landscape under 3 scenarios (baseline, no new offsets; current practice, like-for-like [by vegetation type] conservation offsetting near the impact site; and threat scenario, like-for-like conservation offsetting of highly threatened vegetation); and simulated nonmining deforestation to 2020 for each scenario to quantify avoided deforestation achieved with offsets. Mines cleared 3570 ha of native vegetation by 2020. Under a 1:4 offset ratio, mining companies would be required to conserve >14,200 ha of native vegetation, doubling the current extent of protected areas in the region. Allocating offsets under current practice avoided deforestation equivalent to 3% of that caused by mining, whereas allocating under the threat scenario avoided 9%. Current practice failed to achieve no net loss because offsets did not conserve threatened vegetation. Explicit allocation of offsets to threatened vegetation also failed because the most threatened vegetation was widely dispersed across the landscape, making conservation logistically difficult. To achieve no net loss with conservation offsets requires information on regional deforestation trajectories and the distribution of threatened vegetation. However, in some regions achieving no net loss through conservation may be impossible. In these cases, other offsetting activities, such as revegetation, will be required. © 2014 Society for Conservation Biology.

  16. Sagittal-Plane Knee Moment During Gait and Knee Cartilage Thickness.

    PubMed

    Schmitz, Randy J; Harrison, David; Wang, Hsin-Min; Shultz, Sandra J

    2017-06-02

      Understanding the factors associated with thicker cartilage in a healthy population is important when developing strategies aimed at minimizing the cartilage thinning associated with knee osteoarthritis progression. Thicker articular cartilage is commonly thought to be healthier cartilage, but whether the sagittal-plane biomechanics important to gait are related to cartilage thickness is unknown.   To determine the relationship of a weight-bearing region of the medial femoral condyle's cartilage thickness to sagittal gait biomechanics in healthy individuals.   Descriptive laboratory study.   Laboratory.   Twenty-eight healthy participants (15 women: age = 21.1 ± 2.1 years, height = 1.63 ± 0.07 m, weight = 64.6 ± 9.9 kg; 13 men: age = 22.1 ± 2.9 years, height = 1.79 ± 0.05 m, weight = 75.2 ± 9.6 kg).   Tibiofemoral angle (°) was obtained via goniometric assessment, thickness of the medial femoral condyle cartilage (mm) was obtained via ultrasound imaging, and peak internal knee-extensor moment (% body weight · height) was measured during 10 trials of over-ground walking at a self-selected pace. We used linear regression to examine the extent to which peak internal knee-extensor moment predicted cartilage thickness after accounting for tibiofemoral angle and sex.   Sex and tibiofemoral angle (12.3° ± 3.2°) were entered in the initial step as control factors (R 2 = 0.01, P = .872). In the final step, internal knee-extensor moment (1.5% ± 1.3% body weight · height) was entered, which resulted in greater knee-extensor moment being related to greater cartilage thickness (2.0 ± 0.3 mm; R 2 Δ = 0.31, PΔ = .003).   Individuals who walked with a greater peak internal knee-extensor moment during gait had a cartilage structure that is generally considered beneficial in a healthy population. Our study offers promising findings that a potentially modifiable biomechanical factor is associated with cartilage status in a healthy population

  17. Sagittal-Plane Knee Moment During Gait and Knee Cartilage Thickness

    PubMed Central

    Harrison, David; Wang, Hsin-Min; Shultz, Sandra J.

    2017-01-01

    Context:  Understanding the factors associated with thicker cartilage in a healthy population is important when developing strategies aimed at minimizing the cartilage thinning associated with knee osteoarthritis progression. Thicker articular cartilage is commonly thought to be healthier cartilage, but whether the sagittal-plane biomechanics important to gait are related to cartilage thickness is unknown. Objective:  To determine the relationship of a weight-bearing region of the medial femoral condyle's cartilage thickness to sagittal gait biomechanics in healthy individuals. Design:  Descriptive laboratory study. Setting:  Laboratory. Patients or Other Participants:  Twenty-eight healthy participants (15 women: age = 21.1 ± 2.1 years, height = 1.63 ± 0.07 m, weight = 64.6 ± 9.9 kg; 13 men: age = 22.1 ± 2.9 years, height = 1.79 ± 0.05 m, weight = 75.2 ± 9.6 kg). Main Outcome Measure(s):  Tibiofemoral angle (°) was obtained via goniometric assessment, thickness of the medial femoral condyle cartilage (mm) was obtained via ultrasound imaging, and peak internal knee-extensor moment (% body weight · height) was measured during 10 trials of over-ground walking at a self-selected pace. We used linear regression to examine the extent to which peak internal knee-extensor moment predicted cartilage thickness after accounting for tibiofemoral angle and sex. Results:  Sex and tibiofemoral angle (12.3° ± 3.2°) were entered in the initial step as control factors (R2 = 0.01, P = .872). In the final step, internal knee-extensor moment (1.5% ± 1.3% body weight · height) was entered, which resulted in greater knee-extensor moment being related to greater cartilage thickness (2.0 ± 0.3 mm; R2Δ = 0.31, PΔ = .003). Conclusion:  Individuals who walked with a greater peak internal knee-extensor moment during gait had a cartilage structure that is generally considered beneficial in a healthy population. Our study offers promising findings that a

  18. Spring-Mediated Cranioplasty in Sagittal Synostosis: Does Age at Placement Affect Expansion?

    PubMed

    Sun, James; Ter Maaten, Netanja S; Mazzaferro, Daniel M; Wes, Ari M; Naran, Sanjay; Bartlett, Scott P; Taylor, Jesse A

    2018-05-01

    The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of timing of surgery and spring characteristics on correction of scaphocephalic deformity in patients undergoing spring-mediated cranioplasty (SMC) for sagittal craniosynostosis. The authors conducted a review of patients with sagittal craniosynostosis who underwent SMC at a tertiary referral center between July 2011 and March 2017, with a primary outcome measure of head shape, both preoperatively and postoperatively, determined by cephalic index (CI). Patient demographics and operative details including timing of surgery and spring characteristics were collected. Differences in CI preoperation and postoperation were compared using Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Ordinary least-squares linear regression was used to assess the impact of timing, number of springs, maximum single spring force, and total spring force on postoperative change in CI. Thirty-six subjects (12 males and 24 females) were included in the study. Mean age at spring placement was 3.9 months (range: 1.9-9.2) with a mean follow-up of 1.4 years (range: 0.3-5.2). The mean number of springs used was 3 (range: 2-4). The mean maximum single spring force was 9.9 Newtons (N) (range: 6.9-13.0) and the mean total spring force was 24.6 N (range: 12.7-37.0). Mean CI increased from 70 ± 0.9 preoperatively to 77 ± 1.0 postoperatively (P < 0.001). Age at spring placement was significantly associated with change in CI: for every month increase in age, the change in CI decreased by 1.3 (P = 0.03). The number of springs used, greatest single spring force, and total spring force did not correlate with changes in CI (P = 0.85, P = 0.42, and P = 0.84, respectively). In SMC, earlier age at time of surgery appears to correlate with greater improvement in CI, at least in the short-term. While spring characteristics did not appear to affect head shape, it is possible that the authors were underpowered to detect a difference, and spring

  19. Sagittal MRI often overestimates the degree of cerebellar tonsillar ectopia: a potential for misdiagnosis of the Chiari I malformation.

    PubMed

    Tubbs, R Shane; Yan, Huang; Demerdash, Amin; Chern, Joshua J; Fries, Fabian N; Oskouian, Rod J; Oakes, W Jerry

    2016-07-01

    We hypothesized that by using coronal MRI, Chiari I malformation could be more precisely diagnosed, would provide simple anatomic landmarks, would provide information regarding asymmetry of hindbrain herniation, and would be a better method for analyzing the tonsillar herniation postoperatively when the opisthion has been removed. Fifty consecutive pediatric patients diagnosed with Chiari I malformation had comparison between the measurements of their caudally descended cerebellar tonsils on midsagittal and coronal MRI images. On MRI coronal imaging, tonsillar asymmetry was found in 48 patients. Maximal left tonsillar descent was 20.9 mm, and maximal right tonsillar descent was 17.4 mm. On MRI sagittal imaging, tonsillar descent ranged from 5 to 27.4 mm. Fifty-eight % of patients had syringomyelia. Five patients (10 %) on coronal MRI were found to have both cerebellar tonsils that were less than 3 mm below the foramen magnum. However, all of these patients had greater than 3 mm of tonsillar ectopia on sagittal imaging. Nineteen patients (38 %) on coronal MRI were found to have one of the cerebellar tonsils that were less than 3 mm below the foramen magnum. Similarly, each of these had greater than 3 mm of tonsillar ecotpia as measured on midsagittal MRI. Also, based on these findings, Chiari I malformation is almost always an asymmetrical tonsillar ectopia. Sagittal MRI overestimates the degree of tonsillar ectopia in patients with Chiari I malformation. Misdiagnosis may occur if sagittal imaging alone is used. The cerebellar tonsils are paramedian structures, and this should be kept in mind when interpreting midline sagittal MRI.

  20. The addition of a sagittal image fusion improves the prostate cancer detection in a sensor-based MRI /ultrasound fusion guided targeted biopsy.

    PubMed

    Günzel, Karsten; Cash, Hannes; Buckendahl, John; Königbauer, Maximilian; Asbach, Patrick; Haas, Matthias; Neymeyer, Jörg; Hinz, Stefan; Miller, Kurt; Kempkensteffen, Carsten

    2017-01-13

    To explore the diagnostic benefit of an additional image fusion of the sagittal plane in addition to the standard axial image fusion, using a sensor-based MRI/US fusion platform. During July 2013 and September 2015, 251 patients with at least one suspicious lesion on mpMRI (rated by PI-RADS) were included into the analysis. All patients underwent MRI/US targeted biopsy (TB) in combination with a 10 core systematic prostate biopsy (SB). All biopsies were performed on a sensor-based fusion system. Group A included 162 men who received TB by an axial MRI/US image fusion. Group B comprised 89 men in whom the TB was performed with an additional sagittal image fusion. The median age in group A was 67 years (IQR 61-72) and in group B 68 years (IQR 60-71). The median PSA level in group A was 8.10 ng/ml (IQR 6.05-14) and in group B 8.59 ng/ml (IQR 5.65-12.32). In group A the proportion of patients with a suspicious digital rectal examination (DRE) (14 vs. 29%, p = 0.007) and the proportion of primary biopsies (33 vs 46%, p = 0.046) were significantly lower. The rate of PI-RADS 3 lesions were overrepresented in group A compared to group B (19 vs. 9%; p = 0.044). Classified according to PI-RADS 3, 4 and 5, the detection rates of TB were 42, 48, 75% in group A and 25, 74, 90% in group B. The rate of PCa with a Gleason score ≥7 missed by TB was 33% (18 cases) in group A and 9% (5 cases) in group B; p-value 0.072. An explorative multivariate binary logistic regression analysis revealed that PI-RADS, a suspicious DRE and performing an additional sagittal image fusion were significant predictors for PCa detection in TB. 9 PCa were only detected by TB with sagittal fusion (sTB) and sTB identified 10 additional clinically significant PCa (Gleason ≥7). Performing an additional sagittal image fusion besides the standard axial fusion appears to improve the accuracy of the sensor-based MRI/US fusion platform.

  1. Overcorrection of lumbar lordosis for adult spinal deformity with sagittal imbalance: comparison of radiographic outcomes between overcorrection and undercorrection.

    PubMed

    Lee, Jung-Hee; Kim, Ki-Tack; Lee, Sang-Hun; Kang, Kyung-Chung; Oh, Hyun-Seok; Kim, Young-Jun; Jung, Hyuk

    2016-08-01

    To determine the correlation of the difference between postoperative lumbar lordosis (LL) and ideal LL with the sagittal vertical axis (SVA) at the final follow-up in patients with adult spinal deformity (ASD). Fifty-one patients with degenerative lumbar kyphosis (DLK) (mean age 66.5 years) who underwent surgical correction with a minimum 2-year follow-up were evaluated. Based on the difference between postoperative LL and ideal LL using the Korean version of Legaye's formula, we divided the 51 patients into two groups: overcorrection (degree of postoperative LL > ideal LL) and undercorrection (degree of postoperative LL < ideal LL). Our clinical series of patients comprised 24 in the overcorrection and 27 in the undercorrection group. No significant differences were found in preoperative pelvic incidence (PI 52.6° vs. 57.3°), sacral slope (SS 23.3° vs. 18.3°), LL (-6.9° vs. -2.3°), thoracic kyphosis (TK 4.7° vs. 4.9°) and SVA (140 vs. 139 mm) except pelvic tilt (PT 29.4° vs. 39.0°), between the two groups. All the patients in the overcorrection group and 16 in the undercorrection group achieved postoperative optimal sagittal balance based on SVA ≤ 50 mm. In addition, significant differences in PT (10.5° vs. 26.7°), SS (42.1° vs. 30.6°), LL (-64.3° vs. -37.1°), TK (22.6° vs. 15.8°), and SVA (-1 vs. 41 mm) between the two groups were observed postoperatively. Furthermore, four patients (16.7 %) in the overcorrection group and eight (50 %) in the undercorrection group had sagittal decompensation at the final follow-up. Our results showed that the difference between postoperative LL and ideal LL had a significant correlation with postoperative and final follow-up SVA in our clinical series. Overcorrection of LL is an effective treatment modality to maintain optimal sagittal alignment in patients with DLK; this suggests that it should be considered in preoperative planning for patients with ASD with sagittal imbalance.

  2. Muscle complex saving posterior sagittal anorectoplasty.

    PubMed

    Zaiem, Maher; Zaiem, Feras

    2017-05-01

    Posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP) published by DeVries and Peña in 1982 had become the preferred surgical technique for the management of anorectal malformations (ARM). The original technique is based upon complete exposure of the anorectal region by means of a median sagittal incision that runs from the sacrum to the anal dimple, cutting through all muscle structures behind the rectum by dividing the levator muscle and the muscle complex. Then, the rectum is located in front of the levator and within the limits of the muscle complex. In this review, we described Muscle Complex Saving-Posterior Sagittal Anorectoplasty (MCS-PSARP), which is a less invasive technique that consists of keeping this funnel-shaped muscle complex completely intact and not divided, and pulling the rectum through this funnel, toward fixing the new anus to the skin. This technique aimed both to respect the lower part of the sphincter mechanism consisting of the muscle complex, and to avoid the disturbance of this important structure by dividing and resuturing it. We presented six cases of male patients who were born with anorectal malformation (ARM) and underwent MCS-PSARP. The surgical technique proved to be feasible to achieve the dissection of the rectal pouch and the division of the rectourethral fistula in all patients, by opening only the upper part of the sphincter mechanism, the levator muscle, and keeping the lower part consisting of intact muscle complex. The early results in our series are encouraging; however, long-term functional outcomes of these patients are awaited. The surgical tips were also discussed. This proposed approach in the management of anorectal malformation cases provides an opportunity to maximize preservation of the existing continence mechanisms. It preserves the muscle complex components of the levator muscle intact, allowing a better function of the continence mechanism. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  3. 7 CFR 400.129 - Salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 6 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Salary offset. 400.129 Section 400.129 Agriculture... Years § 400.129 Salary offset. (a) Debt collection by salary offset is feasible if: the cost to the Government of collection by salary offset does not exceed the amount of the debt; there are no legal...

  4. 9.4T Human MRI: Preliminary Results

    PubMed Central

    Vaughan, Thomas; DelaBarre, Lance; Snyder, Carl; Tian, Jinfeng; Akgun, Can; Shrivastava, Devashish; Liu, Wanzahn; Olson, Chris; Adriany, Gregor; Strupp, John; Andersen, Peter; Gopinath, Anand; van de Moortele, Pierre-Francois; Garwood, Michael; Ugurbil, Kamil

    2014-01-01

    This work reports the preliminary results of the first human images at the new high-field benchmark of 9.4T. A 65-cm-diameter bore magnet was used together with an asymmetric 40-cm-diameter head gradient and shim set. A multichannel transmission line (transverse electromagnetic (TEM)) head coil was driven by a programmable parallel transceiver to control the relative phase and magnitude of each channel independently. These new RF field control methods facilitated compensation for RF artifacts attributed to destructive interference patterns, in order to achieve homogeneous 9.4T head images or localize anatomic targets. Prior to FDA investigational device exemptions (IDEs) and internal review board (IRB)-approved human studies, preliminary RF safety studies were performed on porcine models. These data are reported together with exit interview results from the first 44 human volunteers. Although several points for improvement are discussed, the preliminary results demonstrate the feasibility of safe and successful human imaging at 9.4T. PMID:17075852

  5. Sagittal alignment after single cervical disc arthroplasty.

    PubMed

    Guérin, Patrick; Obeid, Ibrahim; Gille, Olivier; Bourghli, Anouar; Luc, Stéphane; Pointillart, Vincent; Vital, Jean-Marc

    2012-02-01

    Prospective study. To analyze the sagittal balance after single-level cervical disc replacement (CDR) and range of motion (ROM). To define clinical and radiologic parameters those have a significant correlation with segmental and overall cervical curvature after CDR. Clinical outcomes and ROM after CDR with Mobi-C (LDR, Troyes, France) prosthesis have been documented in few studies. No earlier report of this prosthesis has studied correlations between static and dynamic parameters or those between static parameters and clinical outcomes. Forty patients were evaluated. Clinical outcome was assessed using the Short Form-36 questionnaire, Neck Disability Index, and a Visual Analog Scale. Spineview software (Surgiview, Paris, France) was used to investigate sagittal balance parameters and ROM. The mean follow-up was 24.3 months (range: 12 to 36 mo). Clinical outcomes were satisfactory. There was a significant improvement of Short Form-36, Neck Disability Index, and Visual Analog Scale scores. Mean ROM was 8.3 degrees preoperatively and 11.0 degrees postoperatively (P=0.013). Mean preoperative C2C7 curvature was 12.8 and 16.0 degrees at last follow-up (P=0.001). Mean preoperative functional spinal unit (FSU) angle was 2.3 and 5.3 degrees postoperatively (P<0.0001). Mean postoperative shell angle was 5.5 degrees. There was a significant correlation between postoperative C2C7 alignment and preoperative C2C7 alignment, change of C2C7 alignment, preoperative and postoperative FSU angle, and prosthesis shell angle. There was also a significant correlation between postoperative FSU angle and preoperative C2C7 alignment, preoperative FSU angle, change of FSU angle, and prosthesis shell angle. Regression analysis showed that prosthesis shell angle and preoperative FSU angle contributed significantly to postoperative FSU angle. Moreover, preoperative C2C7 alignment, preoperative FSU angle, postoperative FSU angle, and prosthesis shell angle contributed significantly to

  6. Offset active galactic nuclei as tracers of galaxy mergers and supermassive black hole growth

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Comerford, Julia M.; Greene, Jenny E.

    2014-07-10

    Offset active galactic nuclei (AGNs) are AGNs that are in ongoing galaxy mergers, which produce kinematic offsets in the AGNs relative to their host galaxies. Offset AGNs are also close relatives of dual AGNs. We conduct a systematic search for offset AGNs in the Sloan Digital Sky Survey by selecting AGN emission lines that exhibit statistically significant line-of-sight velocity offsets relative to systemic. From a parent sample of 18,314 Type 2 AGNs at z < 0.21, we identify 351 offset AGN candidates with velocity offsets of 50 km s{sup –1} < |Δv| < 410 km s{sup –1}. When we accountmore » for projection effects in the observed velocities, we estimate that 4%-8% of AGNs are offset AGNs. We designed our selection criteria to bypass velocity offsets produced by rotating gas disks, AGN outflows, and gravitational recoil of supermassive black holes, but follow-up observations are still required to confirm our candidates as offset AGNs. We find that the fraction of AGNs that are offset candidates increases with AGN bolometric luminosity, from 0.7% to 6% over the luminosity range 43 < log (L{sub bol}) [erg s{sup –1}] <46. If these candidates are shown to be bona fide offset AGNs, then this would be direct observational evidence that galaxy mergers preferentially trigger high-luminosity AGNs. Finally, we find that the fraction of AGNs that are offset AGN candidates increases from 1.9% at z = 0.1 to 32% at z = 0.7, in step with the growth in the galaxy merger fraction over the same redshift range.« less

  7. 'Lumbar Degenerative Kyphosis' Is Not Byword for Degenerative Sagittal Imbalance: Time to Replace a Misconception.

    PubMed

    Lee, Chang-Hyun; Chung, Chun Kee; Jang, Jee-Soo; Kim, Sung-Min; Chin, Dong-Kyu; Lee, Jung-Kil

    2017-03-01

    Lumbar degenerative kyphosis (LDK) is a subgroup of the flat-back syndrome and is most commonly caused by unique life styles, such as a prolonged crouched posture during agricultural work and performing activities of daily living on the floor. Unfortunately, LDK has been used as a byword for degenerative sagittal imbalance, and this sometimes causes confusion. The aim of this review was to evaluate the exact territory of LDK, and to introduce another appropriate term for degenerative sagittal deformity. Unlike what its name suggests, LDK does not only include sagittal balance disorder of the lumbar spine and kyphosis, but also sagittal balance disorder of the whole spine and little lordosis of the lumbar spine. Moreover, this disease is closely related to the occupation of female farmers and an outdated Asian life style. These reasons necessitate a change in the nomenclature of this disorder to prevent misunderstanding. We suggest the name "primary degenerative sagittal imbalance" (PDSI), which encompasses degenerative sagittal misalignments of unknown origin in the whole spine in older-age patients, and is associated with back muscle wasting. LDK may be regarded as a subgroup of PDSI related to an occupation in agriculture. Conservative treatments such as exercise and physiotherapy are recommended as first-line treatments for patients with PDSI, and surgical treatment is considered only if conservative treatments failed. The measurement of spinopelvic parameters for sagittal balance is important prior to deformity corrective surgery. LDK can be considered a subtype of PDSI that is more likely to occur in female farmers, and hence the use of LDK as a global term for all degenerative sagittal imbalance disorders is better avoided. To avoid confusion, we recommend PDSI as a newer, more accurate diagnostic term instead of LDK.

  8. Development of synthetic simulators for endoscope-assisted repair of metopic and sagittal craniosynostosis.

    PubMed

    Eastwood, Kyle W; Bodani, Vivek P; Haji, Faizal A; Looi, Thomas; Naguib, Hani E; Drake, James M

    2018-06-01

    OBJECTIVE Endoscope-assisted repair of craniosynostosis is a safe and efficacious alternative to open techniques. However, this procedure is challenging to learn, and there is significant variation in both its execution and outcomes. Surgical simulators may allow trainees to learn and practice this procedure prior to operating on an actual patient. The purpose of this study was to develop a realistic, relatively inexpensive simulator for endoscope-assisted repair of metopic and sagittal craniosynostosis and to evaluate the models' fidelity and teaching content. METHODS Two separate, 3D-printed, plastic powder-based replica skulls exhibiting metopic (age 1 month) and sagittal (age 2 months) craniosynostosis were developed. These models were made into consumable skull "cartridges" that insert into a reusable base resembling an infant's head. Each cartridge consists of a multilayer scalp (skin, subcutaneous fat, galea, and periosteum); cranial bones with accurate landmarks; and the dura mater. Data related to model construction, use, and cost were collected. Eleven novice surgeons (residents), 9 experienced surgeons (fellows), and 5 expert surgeons (attendings) performed a simulated metopic and sagittal craniosynostosis repair using a neuroendoscope, high-speed drill, rongeurs, lighted retractors, and suction/irrigation. All participants completed a 13-item questionnaire (using 5-point Likert scales) to rate the realism and utility of the models for teaching endoscope-assisted strip suturectomy. RESULTS The simulators are compact, robust, and relatively inexpensive. They can be rapidly reset for repeated use and contain a minimal amount of consumable material while providing a realistic simulation experience. More than 80% of participants agreed or strongly agreed that the models' anatomical features, including surface anatomy, subgaleal and subperiosteal tissue planes, anterior fontanelle, and epidural spaces, were realistic and contained appropriate detail. More

  9. Cervical vertebrae maturation index estimates on cone beam CT: 3D reconstructions vs sagittal sections.

    PubMed

    Bonfim, Marco A E; Costa, André L F; Fuziy, Acácio; Ximenez, Michel E L; Cotrim-Ferreira, Flávio A; Ferreira-Santos, Rívea I

    2016-01-01

    The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of CBCT three-dimensional (3D) reconstructions and sagittal sections for estimates of cervical vertebrae maturation index (CVMI). The sample consisted of 72 CBCT examinations from patients aged 8-16 years (45 females and 27 males) selected from the archives of two private clinics. Two calibrated observers (kappa scores: ≥0.901) interpreted the CBCT settings twice. Intra- and interobserver agreement for both imaging exhibition modes was analyzed by kappa statistics, which was also used to analyze the agreement between 3D reconstructions and sagittal sections. Correlations between cervical vertebrae maturation estimates and chronological age, as well as between the assessments by 3D reconstructions and sagittal sections, were analyzed using gamma Goodman-Kruskal coefficients (α = 0.05). The kappa scores evidenced almost perfect agreement between the first and second assessments of the cervical vertebrae by 3D reconstructions (0.933-0.983) and sagittal sections (0.983-1.000). Similarly, the agreement between 3D reconstructions and sagittal sections was almost perfect (kappa index: 0.983). In most divergent cases, the difference between 3D reconstructions and sagittal sections was one stage of CVMI. Strongly positive correlations (>0.8, p < 0.001) were found not only between chronological age and CVMI but also between the estimates by 3D reconstructions and sagittal sections (p < 0.001). Although CBCT imaging must not be used exclusively for this purpose, it may be suitable for skeletal maturity assessments.

  10. Cervical vertebrae maturation index estimates on cone beam CT: 3D reconstructions vs sagittal sections

    PubMed Central

    Bonfim, Marco A E; Costa, André L F; Ximenez, Michel E L; Cotrim-Ferreira, Flávio A; Ferreira-Santos, Rívea I

    2016-01-01

    Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of CBCT three-dimensional (3D) reconstructions and sagittal sections for estimates of cervical vertebrae maturation index (CVMI). Methods: The sample consisted of 72 CBCT examinations from patients aged 8–16 years (45 females and 27 males) selected from the archives of two private clinics. Two calibrated observers (kappa scores: ≥0.901) interpreted the CBCT settings twice. Intra- and interobserver agreement for both imaging exhibition modes was analyzed by kappa statistics, which was also used to analyze the agreement between 3D reconstructions and sagittal sections. Correlations between cervical vertebrae maturation estimates and chronological age, as well as between the assessments by 3D reconstructions and sagittal sections, were analyzed using gamma Goodman–Kruskal coefficients (α = 0.05). Results: The kappa scores evidenced almost perfect agreement between the first and second assessments of the cervical vertebrae by 3D reconstructions (0.933–0.983) and sagittal sections (0.983–1.000). Similarly, the agreement between 3D reconstructions and sagittal sections was almost perfect (kappa index: 0.983). In most divergent cases, the difference between 3D reconstructions and sagittal sections was one stage of CVMI. Strongly positive correlations (>0.8, p < 0.001) were found not only between chronological age and CVMI but also between the estimates by 3D reconstructions and sagittal sections (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Although CBCT imaging must not be used exclusively for this purpose, it may be suitable for skeletal maturity assessments. PMID:26509559

  11. Low Offset AC Correlator.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    This patent describes a low offset AC correlator avoids DC offset and low frequency noise by frequency operating the correlation signal so that low...noise, low level AC amplification can be substituted for DC amplification. Subsequently, the high level AC signal is demodulated to a DC level. (Author)

  12. 5 CFR 179.307 - Administrative offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 5 Administrative Personnel 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Administrative offset. 179.307 Section 179.307 Administrative Personnel OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT CIVIL SERVICE REGULATIONS CLAIMS COLLECTION STANDARDS Administrative Offset § 179.307 Administrative offset. (a) If the debtor does not...

  13. [Evaluation of three methods for constructing craniofacial mid-sagittal plane based on the cone beam computed tomography].

    PubMed

    Wang, S W; Li, M; Yang, H F; Zhao, Y J; Wang, Y; Liu, Y

    2016-04-18

    To compare the accuracyof interactive closet point (ICP) algorithm, Procrustes analysis (PA) algorithm,and a landmark-independent method to construct the mid-sagittal plane (MSP) of the cone beam computed tomography.To provide theoretical basis for establishing coordinate systemof CBCT images and symmetric analysis. Ten patients were selected and scanned by CBCT before orthodontic treatment.The scan data was imported into Mimics 10.0 to reconstructthree dimensional skulls.And the MSP of each skull was generated by ICP algorithm, PA algorithm and landmark-independent method. MSP extracted by ICP algorithm or PA algorithm involvedthree steps. First, the 3D skull processing was performed by reverse engineering software geomagic studio 2012 to obtain the mirror skull. Then, the original and its mirror skull was registered separately by ICP algorithm in geomagic studio 2012 and PA algorithm in NX Imageware 11.0. Finally, the registered data were united into new data to calculate the MSP of the originaldata in geomagic studio 2012. The mid-sagittal plane was determined by SELLA (S), nasion (N), basion (Ba) as traditional landmark-dependent methodconducted in software InVivoDental 5.0. The distance from 9 pairs of symmetric anatomical marked points to three sagittal plane were measured and calculated to compare the differences of the absolute value. The one-way ANOVA test was used to analyze the variable differences among the 3 MSPs. The pairwise comparison was performed with LSD method. MSPs calculated by the three methods were available for clinic analysis, which could be concluded from the front view.However, there was significant differences among the distances from the 9 pairs of symmetric anatomical marked points to the MSPs (F=10.932,P=0.001).LSD test showed there was no significant difference between the ICP algorithm and landmark-independent method (P=0.11), while there was significant difference between the PA algorithm and landmark-independent methods (P=0

  14. Oblique Sagittal Images Prevent Underestimation of the Neuroforaminal Stenosis Grade Caused by Disc Herniation in Cervical Spine MRI.

    PubMed

    Kintzelé, Laurent; Rehnitz, Christoph; Kauczor, Hans-Ulrich; Weber, Marc-André

    2018-06-06

     To identify whether standard sagittal MRI images result in underestimation of the neuroforaminal stenosis grade compared to oblique sagittal MRI images in patients with cervical spine disc herniation.  74 patients with a total of 104 cervical disc herniations compromising the corresponding nerve root were evaluated. Neuroforaminal stenosis grades were evaluated in standard and oblique sagittal images by one senior and one resident radiologist experienced in musculoskeletal imaging. Oblique images were angled 30° towards the standard sagittal plane. Neuroforaminal stenosis grades were classified from 0 (no stenosis) to 3 (high grade stenosis).  Average neuroforaminal stenosis grades of both readers were significantly lower in standard compared to oblique sagittal images (p < 0.001). For 47.1 % of the cases, one or both readers reported a stenosis grade, which was at least 1 grade lower in standard compared to oblique sagittal images. There was also a significant difference when looking at patients who had neurological symptoms (p = 0.002) or underwent cervical spine surgery subsequently (p = 0.004). Interreader reliability, as measured by kappa value, and accordance rates were better for oblique sagittal images (0.94 vs. 0.88 and 99 % vs. 93 %).  Standard sagittal images tend to underestimate neuroforaminal stenosis grades compared to oblique sagittal images and are less reliable in the evaluation of disc herniations within the cervical spine MRI. In order to assess the potential therapeutic consequence, oblique images should therefore be considered as a valuable adjunct to the standard MRI protocol for patients with a radiculopathy.   · Neuroforaminal stenosis grades are underestimated in standard compared to oblique sagittal images. · Interreader reliability is higher for oblique sagittal images. · Oblique sagittal images should be performed in patients with a cervical radiculopathy. · Kintzele L, Rehnitz C, Kauczor H et

  15. 28 CFR 11.8 - Salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... office of the salary offset coordination official within 15 days after the employee's receipt of the... offset coordination officer will notify the employee of the location and time when the employee may... records, due to geographical or other constraints, the salary offset coordination officer shall arrange to...

  16. 28 CFR 11.8 - Salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... office of the salary offset coordination official within 15 days after the employee's receipt of the... offset coordination officer will notify the employee of the location and time when the employee may... records, due to geographical or other constraints, the salary offset coordination officer shall arrange to...

  17. 28 CFR 11.8 - Salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... office of the salary offset coordination official within 15 days after the employee's receipt of the... offset coordination officer will notify the employee of the location and time when the employee may... records, due to geographical or other constraints, the salary offset coordination officer shall arrange to...

  18. 28 CFR 11.8 - Salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... office of the salary offset coordination official within 15 days after the employee's receipt of the... offset coordination officer will notify the employee of the location and time when the employee may... records, due to geographical or other constraints, the salary offset coordination officer shall arrange to...

  19. 45 CFR 1177.8 - Administrative offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... HUMANITIES NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE HUMANITIES CLAIMS COLLECTION § 1177.8 Administrative offset. (a) The... administrative offset, the National Endowment for the Humanities will send the debtor written notice of the... interest. (d) The National Endowment for the Humanities may effect an administrative offset against a...

  20. 45 CFR 1177.8 - Administrative offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... HUMANITIES NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE HUMANITIES CLAIMS COLLECTION § 1177.8 Administrative offset. (a) The... administrative offset, the National Endowment for the Humanities will send the debtor written notice of the... interest. (d) The National Endowment for the Humanities may effect an administrative offset against a...

  1. The human Vδ2+ T-cell compartment comprises distinct innate-like Vγ9+ and adaptive Vγ9- subsets.

    PubMed

    Davey, Martin S; Willcox, Carrie R; Hunter, Stuart; Kasatskaya, Sofya A; Remmerswaal, Ester B M; Salim, Mahboob; Mohammed, Fiyaz; Bemelman, Frederike J; Chudakov, Dmitriy M; Oo, Ye H; Willcox, Benjamin E

    2018-05-02

    Vδ2 + T cells form the predominant human γδ T-cell population in peripheral blood and mediate T-cell receptor (TCR)-dependent anti-microbial and anti-tumour immunity. Here we show that the Vδ2 + compartment comprises both innate-like and adaptive subsets. Vγ9 + Vδ2 + T cells display semi-invariant TCR repertoires, featuring public Vγ9 TCR sequences equivalent in cord and adult blood. By contrast, we also identify a separate, Vγ9 - Vδ2 + T-cell subset that typically has a CD27 hi CCR7 + CD28 + IL-7Rα + naive-like phenotype and a diverse TCR repertoire, however in response to viral infection, undergoes clonal expansion and differentiation to a CD27 lo CD45RA + CX 3 CR1 + granzymeA/B + effector phenotype. Consistent with a function in solid tissue immunosurveillance, we detect human intrahepatic Vγ9 - Vδ2 + T cells featuring dominant clonal expansions and an effector phenotype. These findings redefine human γδ T-cell subsets by delineating the Vδ2 + T-cell compartment into innate-like (Vγ9 + ) and adaptive (Vγ9 - ) subsets, which have distinct functions in microbial immunosurveillance.

  2. The longitudinal sagittal growth changes of maxilla and mandible according to quantitative cervical vertebral maturation.

    PubMed

    Chen, Lili; Lin, Jiuxiang; Xu, Tianmin; Long, Xiaosi

    2009-04-01

    To investigate the longitudinal sagittal growth changes of maxilla and mandible according to the quantitative cervical vertebral maturation (QCVM) for adolescents with normal occlusion, mixed longitudinal data were used. The samples included 87 adolescents aged from 8 to 18 y old with normal occlusion (32 males, 55 females) selected from 901 candidates. Sequential lateral cephalograms and hand-wrist films were taken once a year, lasting for 6 y. The longitudinal sagittal growth changes of maxilla and mandible according to QCVM were measured. There were some significant differences between maxilla and mandible according to QCVM. The sagittal growth change of maxilla showed a trend towards high velocity-->decelerating velocity-->completing velocity from QCVM stage I to stage IV. The sagittal growth change of mandible showed a trend towards accelerating velocity-->high velocity-->decelerating velocity-->completing velocity from QCVM stage I to stage IV. With sagittal relationship, growth magnitude was almost the same between maxilla and mandible at QCVM stage I. At stage II the growth of mandible exceeded that of maxilla and growth in mandible continued at stages III and IV, while the maxilla ceased to grow. Growth magnitude was greater and the growth duration was longer with male mandible. It is concluded that the longitudinal sagittal growth changes of maxilla and mandible on the basis of QCVM is of value in the orthodontic practice.

  3. In vivo field-cycling relaxometry using an insert coil for magnetic field offset.

    PubMed

    Pine, Kerrin J; Goldie, Fred; Lurie, David J

    2014-11-01

    The T(1) of tissue has a strong dependence on the measurement magnetic field strength. T(1) -dispersion could be a useful contrast parameter, but is unavailable to clinical MR systems which operate at fixed magnetic field strength. The purpose of this work was to implement a removable insert magnet coil for field-cycling T(1) -dispersion measurements on a vertical-field MRI scanner, by offsetting the static field over a volume of interest. An insert magnet coil was constructed for use with a whole-body sized 59 milli-Tesla (mT) vertical-field, permanent-magnet based imager. The coil has diameter 38 cm and thickness 6.1 cm and a homogeneous region (± 5%) of 5 cm DSV, offset by 5 cm from the coil surface. Surface radiofrequency (RF) coils were also constructed. The insert coil was used in conjunction with a surface RF coil and a volume-localized inversion-recovery pulse sequence to plot T(1) -dispersion in a human volunteer's forearm over a range of field strengths from 1 mT to 70 mT. T(1) -dispersion measurements were demonstrated on a fixed-field MRI scanner, using an insert coil. This demonstrates the feasibility of relaxation dispersion measurements on an otherwise conventional MR imager, facilitating the exploitation of T(1) -dispersion contrast for enhanced diagnosis. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  4. Reliability of the xipho-pubic angle in patients with sagittal imbalance of the spine.

    PubMed

    Langella, Francesco; Villafañe, Jorge H; Ismael, Maryem; Buric, Josip; Piazzola, Andrea; Lamartina, Claudio; Berjano, Pedro

    2018-04-01

    Proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) is a frequent complication that compromises the outcomes of spinal surgery, especially for adult deformity. To the date no single risk factor or cause has been identified that explains its occurrence. The purpose of this study was to investigate the test-retest reliability of the radiologic measurements using xipho-pubic angle (XPA) for subjects undergoing surgery for sagittal misalignment of the spine. Retrospective observational cross-sectional study of prospectively collected data. Full-spine standing lateral radiographs of 50 patients who underwent surgery for fixed sagittal imbalance (preoperative and postoperative) were evaluated. Internal consistency, reproducibility, concurrent validity, and discriminative ability of the XPA. Two physicians measured XPA on the 100 randomly sorted and anonymized radiographs on two occasions, one week apart (test and retest conditions), were calculated for inter and intraobserver agreement. Test-retest reliability of XPA measurement was excellent for pre- (ICC=0.98; P=0.001) and post-surgical (ICC=0.86; P=0.001) radiographs of subjects with sagittal imbalance of the spine. XPA was able to discriminate between preoperative and postoperative radiographs F=17.924, P<0.001) in patients undergoing surgery for fixed sagittal imbalance for both raters. There were significant differences between pre- vs. postoperative XPA, pelvic tilt, lumbar lordosis and sagittal vertical axis values (all P<0.001). Xipho-pubic angle had fair to excellent test-retest reliability, and it did possess validity to discriminate between preoperative and postoperative radiographs in patients undergoing surgery for fixed sagittal imbalance.

  5. 19 CFR 201.204 - Salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 19 Customs Duties 3 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Salary offset. 201.204 Section 201.204 Customs Duties UNITED STATES INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION GENERAL RULES OF GENERAL APPLICATION Debt Collection § 201.204 Salary offset. (a) Notice requirements before offset where the Commission is the creditor...

  6. 19 CFR 201.204 - Salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... 19 Customs Duties 3 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Salary offset. 201.204 Section 201.204 Customs Duties UNITED STATES INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION GENERAL RULES OF GENERAL APPLICATION Debt Collection § 201.204 Salary offset. (a) Notice requirements before offset where the Commission is the creditor...

  7. 19 CFR 201.204 - Salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... 19 Customs Duties 3 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Salary offset. 201.204 Section 201.204 Customs Duties UNITED STATES INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION GENERAL RULES OF GENERAL APPLICATION Debt Collection § 201.204 Salary offset. (a) Notice requirements before offset where the Commission is the creditor...

  8. 19 CFR 201.204 - Salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-04-01

    ... 19 Customs Duties 3 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Salary offset. 201.204 Section 201.204 Customs Duties UNITED STATES INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION GENERAL RULES OF GENERAL APPLICATION Debt Collection § 201.204 Salary offset. (a) Notice requirements before offset where the Commission is the creditor...

  9. 41 CFR 105-56.018 - Salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Salary offset. 105-56... Administration 56-SALARY OFFSET FOR INDEBTEDNESS OF FEDERAL EMPLOYEES TO THE UNITED STATES Centralized Salary Offset (CSO) Procedures-GSA as Creditor Agency § 105-56.018 Salary offset. When a match occurs and all...

  10. 41 CFR 105-56.028 - Salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Salary offset. 105-56... Administration 56-SALARY OFFSET FOR INDEBTEDNESS OF FEDERAL EMPLOYEES TO THE UNITED STATES Centralized Salary Offset (CSO) Procedures-GSA as Paying Agency § 105-56.028 Salary offset. When a match occurs and all...

  11. Phonation offset in tracheoesophageal speech.

    PubMed

    Searl, Jeff; Ousley, Teri

    2004-01-01

    Tracheoesophageal (TE) speakers often have difficulty producing the voiced-voiceless distinction. Phonation offset (POff) as a TE speaker transitions from a vowel to a stop consonant may be altered, possibly contributing to listener misperceptions. The purposes of this study were to: (1) compare the duration of POff in TE versus laryngeal speakers, and (2) compare POff between TE productions that were accurately versus inaccurately perceived. Phonation offset and offset duration as a proportion of the stop gap (%POff) were greater for the TE versus the laryngeal samples. There was no difference in POff or %POff when comparing accurately to inaccurately perceived TE samples. Tracheoesophageal speakers may have less ability to halt neoglottal vibration compared to laryngeal speakers' ability to stop glottal vibration. Comparable POff for accurately and inaccurately perceived TE samples suggests that POff may not be a particularly salient acoustic feature to the voicing distinction, at least for stop consonants. (1) As a result of this activity, participants will be able to describe what phonation offset is relative to the voicing distinction. (2) As a result of this activity, participants will be able to describe phonation offset in tracheoesophageal speakers relative to laryngeal speakers. (3) As a result of this activity, participants will be able to describe whether phonation offset in tracheoesophageal speech has perceptual saliency for listeners.

  12. 12 CFR 608.821 - Collection by offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 12 Banks and Banking 6 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Collection by offset. 608.821 Section 608.821 Banks and Banking FARM CREDIT ADMINISTRATION ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS COLLECTION OF CLAIMS OWED THE UNITED STATES Administrative Offset § 608.821 Collection by offset. (a) Collection of a debt by administrative [or salary] offset shall be...

  13. ‘Lumbar Degenerative Kyphosis’ Is Not Byword for Degenerative Sagittal Imbalance: Time to Replace a Misconception

    PubMed Central

    Lee, Chang-Hyun; Chung, Chun Kee; Jang, Jee-Soo; Kim, Sung-Min; Chin, Dong-Kyu; Lee, Jung-Kil

    2017-01-01

    Lumbar degenerative kyphosis (LDK) is a subgroup of the flat-back syndrome and is most commonly caused by unique life styles, such as a prolonged crouched posture during agricultural work and performing activities of daily living on the floor. Unfortunately, LDK has been used as a byword for degenerative sagittal imbalance, and this sometimes causes confusion. The aim of this review was to evaluate the exact territory of LDK, and to introduce another appropriate term for degenerative sagittal deformity. Unlike what its name suggests, LDK does not only include sagittal balance disorder of the lumbar spine and kyphosis, but also sagittal balance disorder of the whole spine and little lordosis of the lumbar spine. Moreover, this disease is closely related to the occupation of female farmers and an outdated Asian life style. These reasons necessitate a change in the nomenclature of this disorder to prevent misunderstanding. We suggest the name “primary degenerative sagittal imbalance” (PDSI), which encompasses degenerative sagittal misalignments of unknown origin in the whole spine in older-age patients, and is associated with back muscle wasting. LDK may be regarded as a subgroup of PDSI related to an occupation in agriculture. Conservative treatments such as exercise and physiotherapy are recommended as first-line treatments for patients with PDSI, and surgical treatment is considered only if conservative treatments failed. The measurement of spinopelvic parameters for sagittal balance is important prior to deformity corrective surgery. LDK can be considered a subtype of PDSI that is more likely to occur in female farmers, and hence the use of LDK as a global term for all degenerative sagittal imbalance disorders is better avoided. To avoid confusion, we recommend PDSI as a newer, more accurate diagnostic term instead of LDK. PMID:28264231

  14. Spinal pedicle subtraction osteotomy for fixed sagittal imbalance patients

    PubMed Central

    Hyun, Seung-Jae; Kim, Yongjung J; Rhim, Seung-Chul

    2013-01-01

    In addressing spinal sagittal imbalance through a posterior approach, the surgeon now may choose from among a variety of osteotomy techniques. Posterior column osteotomies such as the facetectomy or Ponte or Smith-Petersen osteotomy provide the least correction, but can be used at multiple levels with minimal blood loss and a lower operative risk. Pedicle subtraction osteotomies provide nearly 3 times the per-level correction of Ponte/Smith-Petersen osteotomies; however, they carry increased technical demands, longer operative time, and greater blood loss and associated significant morbidity, including neurological injury. The literature focusing on pedicle subtraction osteotomy for fixed sagittal imbalance patients is reviewed. The long-term overall outcomes, surgical tips to reduce the complications and suggestions for their proper application are also provided. PMID:24340276

  15. 12 CFR 1408.21 - Collection by offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 12 Banks and Banking 7 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Collection by offset. 1408.21 Section 1408.21 Banks and Banking FARM CREDIT SYSTEM INSURANCE CORPORATION COLLECTION OF CLAIMS OWED THE UNITED STATES Administrative Offset § 1408.21 Collection by offset. (a) Collection of a debt by administrative [or salary] offset shall be accomplished in...

  16. 34 CFR 31.11 - Offset process.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 34 Education 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Offset process. 31.11 Section 31.11 Education Office of the Secretary, Department of Education SALARY OFFSET FOR FEDERAL EMPLOYEES WHO ARE INDEBTED TO THE UNITED STATES UNDER PROGRAMS ADMINISTERED BY THE SECRETARY OF EDUCATION § 31.11 Offset process. (a) The...

  17. Mechanical and photoelastic analysis of conventional screws and cannulated screws for sagittal split osteotomy fixation: a comparative study.

    PubMed

    Lima, Cristina Jardelino de; Falci, Saulo Gabriel Moreira; Rodrigues, Danillo Costa; Marchiori, Érica Cristina; Moreira, Roger Willian Fernandes

    2015-12-01

    The aim of the present study was to use mechanical and photoelastic tests to compare the performance of cannulated screws with solid-core screws in sagittal split osteotomy fixation. Ten polyurethane mandibles, with a prefabricated sagittal split ramus osteotomy, were fixed with an L inverted technique and allocated to each group as follows: cannulated screw group (CSG), fixed with three 2.3-cannulated screws; and solid-core screw group (SCSG), fixed with three 2.3-solid-core screws. Vertical linear loading tests were performed. The differences between mean values were analyzed through T test for independent samples. The photoelastic test was carried out using a polariscope. The results revealed differences between the two groups only at 1 mm of displacement, in which the cannulated-screw revealed more resistance. Photoelastic test showed higher stress concentration close to mandibular branch in the solid-core group. Cannulated screws performed better than solid-core ones in a mechanical test at 1-mm displacement and photoelastic tests.

  18. Sequence optimization to reduce velocity offsets in cardiovascular magnetic resonance volume flow quantification - A multi-vendor study

    PubMed Central

    2011-01-01

    Purpose Eddy current induced velocity offsets are of concern for accuracy in cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) volume flow quantification. However, currently known theoretical aspects of eddy current behavior have not led to effective guidelines for the optimization of flow quantification sequences. This study is aimed at identifying correlations between protocol parameters and the resulting velocity error in clinical CMR flow measurements in a multi-vendor study. Methods Nine 1.5T scanners of three different types/vendors were studied. Measurements were performed on a large stationary phantom. Starting from a clinical breath-hold flow protocol, several protocol parameters were varied. Acquisitions were made in three clinically relevant orientations. Additionally, a time delay between the bipolar gradient and read-out, asymmetric versus symmetric velocity encoding, and gradient amplitude and slew rate were studied in adapted sequences as exploratory measurements beyond the protocol. Image analysis determined the worst-case offset for a typical great-vessel flow measurement. Results The results showed a great variation in offset behavior among scanners (standard deviation among samples of 0.3, 0.4, and 0.9 cm/s for the three different scanner types), even for small changes in the protocol. Considering the absolute values, none of the tested protocol settings consistently reduced the velocity offsets below the critical level of 0.6 cm/s neither for all three orientations nor for all three scanner types. Using multilevel linear model analysis, oblique aortic and pulmonary slices showed systematic higher offsets than the transverse aortic slices (oblique aortic 0.6 cm/s, and pulmonary 1.8 cm/s higher than transverse aortic). The exploratory measurements beyond the protocol yielded some new leads for further sequence development towards reduction of velocity offsets; however those protocols were not always compatible with the time-constraints of breath

  19. Attention-dependent sound offset-related brain potentials.

    PubMed

    Horváth, János

    2016-05-01

    When performing sensory tasks, knowing the potentially occurring goal-relevant and irrelevant stimulus events allows the establishment of selective attention sets, which result in enhanced sensory processing of goal-relevant events. In the auditory modality, such enhancements are reflected in the increased amplitude of the N1 ERP elicited by the onsets of task-relevant sounds. It has been recently suggested that ERPs to task-relevant sound offsets are similarly enhanced in a tone-focused state in comparison to a distracted one. The goal of the present study was to explore the influence of attention on ERPs elicited by sound offsets. ERPs elicited by tones in a duration-discrimination task were compared to ERPs elicited by the same tones in not-tone-focused attentional setting. Tone offsets elicited a consistent, attention-dependent biphasic (positive-negative--P1-N1) ERP waveform for tone durations ranging from 150 to 450 ms. The evidence, however, did not support the notion that the offset-related ERPs reflected an offset-specific attention set: The offset-related ERPs elicited in a duration-discrimination condition (in which offsets were task relevant) did not significantly differ from those elicited in a pitch-discrimination condition (in which the offsets were task irrelevant). Although an N2 reflecting the processing of offsets in task-related terms contributed to the observed waveform, this contribution was separable from the offset-related P1 and N1. The results demonstrate that when tones are attended, offset-related ERPs may substantially overlap endogenous ERP activity in the postoffset interval irrespective of tone duration, and attention differences may cause ERP differences in such postoffset intervals. © 2016 Society for Psychophysiological Research.

  20. Are There Age- and Sex-related Differences in Spinal Sagittal Alignment and Balance Among Taiwanese Asymptomatic Adults?

    PubMed

    Yeh, Kuang-Ting; Lee, Ru-Ping; Chen, Ing-Ho; Yu, Tzai-Chiu; Peng, Cheng-Huan; Liu, Kuan-Lin; Wang, Jen-Hung; Wu, Wen-Tien

    2018-05-01

    Sagittal spinopelvic balance and proper sagittal alignment are important when planning corrective or reconstructive spinal surgery. Prior research suggests that people from different races and countries have moderate divergence; to the best of our knowledge, the population of Taiwan has not been studied with respect to this parameter. To investigate normal age- and sex-related differences in whole-spine sagittal alignment and balance of asymptomatic adults without spinal disorders. In this prospective study, we used convenience sampling to recruit asymptomatic volunteers who accompanied patients in the outpatient orthopaedic department. One hundred forty males with a mean age of 48 ± 19 years and 252 females with a mean age of 53 ± 17 years underwent standing lateral radiographs of the whole spine. For analysis, participants were divided in three groups by age (20 to 40 years, 41 to 60 years, and 61 to 80 years) and analyzed by sex (male and female). The following eight radiologic parameters were measured: sacral slope, pelvic tilt, pelvic incidence, thoracic kyphosis, lumbar lordosis, cervical lordosis, C2-C7 sagittal vertical axis, and C7-S1 sagittal vertical axis. Three observers performed estimations of the sagittal parameters twice, and the intraclass correlation coefficients for inter- and intraobserver variability were 0.81 and 0.83. The mean pelvic incidence was 49° ± 12°; lumbar lordosis was smaller in the group that was 61 to 80 years old than in the groups that were 20 to 40 years and 41 to 60 years (95% CI of the difference, 4.50-13.64 and 1.00- 9.60; p < 0.001), while cervical lordosis was greater in the 61 to 80 years age group than the other two groups (95% CI of the difference, -14.64 to -6.57 and -11.57 to -3.45; p < 0.001). The mean C7-S1 sagittal vertical axis was 30 ± 29 mm, and there was no difference among the three groups and between males and females. Pelvic tilt was greater in the group 61 to 80 years old than the 20 to 40 years and

  1. Sagittal Distal Tibial Articular Angle and the Relationship to Talar Subluxation in Total Ankle Arthroplasty.

    PubMed

    Veljkovic, Andrea; Norton, Adam; Salat, Peter; Abbas, Kaniza Zahra; Saltzman, Charles; Femino, John E; Phisitkul, Phinit; Amendola, Annunziato

    2016-09-01

    Longevity of total ankle replacement (TAR) depends heavily on anatomic alignment. The lateral talar station (LTS) classifies the sagittal position of the talus relative to the tibia. We hypothesized that correcting the sagittal distal tibial articular angle (sDTAA) during TAR would anatomically realign the tibiotalar joint and potentially reduce the risk of prosthesis subluxation. The LTS (millimeters) and sDTAA (degrees) were measured twice by 2 blinded observers using weight-bearing lateral ankle radiographs obtained before (n = 96) and after (n = 94) TAR, with excellent interobserver and intraobserver reliability (correlation coefficient >0.9). Preoperative LTS was as follows: anterior (60.4%), posterior (27.1%), and neutral (12.5%). A strong preoperative correlation was found between LTS and sDTAA (r = 0.81; P < .0001). In ankles that were initially anterior and became less anterior postoperatively (n = 41), LTS decreased from an average 8.1 mm to 6.5 mm and the LTS changed 1.1 mm per degree of sDTAA change. In ankles that were initially posterior (n = 25), LTS increased from an average of -5.1 mm to -2.8 mm and the LTS changed 0.6 mm per degree of sDTAA change. The correlation between LTS and sDTAA was reduced postoperatively (r = 0.62; P < .0001). Our results suggest that rather than following generic recommendations, the surgeon should customize the sagittal distal tibial cut to the individual patient based on the preoperative LTS in order to achieve neutral TAR alignment. Level III, retrospective comparative series. © The Author(s) 2016.

  2. Isolated sagittal craniosynostosis: definition, classification, and surgical indications.

    PubMed

    Massimi, Luca; Caldarelli, Massimo; Tamburrini, Gianpiero; Paternoster, Giovanna; Di Rocco, Concezio

    2012-09-01

    Sagittal craniosynostosis (SC) remains the most common type of synostosis, accounting for about a half of all forms. It would result from a mesenchymal disorder involving the intramembranous ossification of the sagittal suture and leading to its early fusion. No specific data on the etiologic factors are currently available. The premature ossification of the sagittal suture can result in three main types of SC, according to the different segment prevalently involved: anterior, posterior, and complete SC. The diagnosis is easily obtained by clinical examination. However, a radiological work up (3D CT scan) may be necessary to rule out hidden venous or cranial anomalies possibly associated with most severe cases, or for the surgical planning. The most common indication for surgery is the improvement of the cosmetic appearance of the skull, since a cranial deformation may have a significant psychological impact on affected subjects. To relieve from raised intracranial pressure is a further indication to surgery. Although an increased intracranial pressure can be demonstrated in a minority of affected children at diagnosis, indeed, it can present later (usually after the second/third year of life) with chronic symptoms. The role of surgery in the preservation of cognitive functions in scaphocephalic patients does not seem to be relevant, since minor anomalies of the cerebral development associated with SC would occur independently from the cranial shape. On the other hand, the surgical correction may show a protective effect on some visual skills, like the ability to fix and follow, and the fixation shift.

  3. Advancing chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy with CRISPR/Cas9.

    PubMed

    Ren, Jiangtao; Zhao, Yangbing

    2017-09-01

    The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated 9 (CRISPR/Cas9) system, an RNA-guided DNA targeting technology, is triggering a revolution in the field of biology. CRISPR/Cas9 has demonstrated great potential for genetic manipulation. In this review, we discuss the current development of CRISPR/Cas9 technologies for therapeutic applications, especially chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell-based adoptive immunotherapy. Different methods used to facilitate efficient CRISPR delivery and gene editing in T cells are compared. The potential of genetic manipulation using CRISPR/Cas9 system to generate universal CAR T cells and potent T cells that are resistant to exhaustion and inhibition is explored. We also address the safety concerns associated with the use of CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing and provide potential solutions and future directions of CRISPR application in the field of CAR T cell immunotherapy. As an integration-free gene insertion method, CRISPR/Cas9 holds great promise as an efficient gene knock-in platform. Given the tremendous progress that has been made in the past few years, we believe that the CRISPR/Cas9 technology holds immense promise for advancing immunotherapy.

  4. An improved offset generator developed for Allan deviation measurement of ultra stable frequency standards

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hamell, Robert L.; Kuhnle, Paul F.; Sydnor, Richard L.

    1992-01-01

    Measuring the performance of ultra stable frequency standards such as the Superconducting Cavity Maser Oscillator (SCMO) necessitates improvement of some test instrumentation. The frequency stability test equipment used at JPL includes a 1 Hz Offset Generator to generate a beat frequency between a pair of 100 MHz signals that are being compared. The noise floor of the measurement system using the current Offset Generator is adequate to characterize stability of hydrogen masers, but it is not adequate for the SCMO. A new Offset Generator with improved stability was designed and tested at JPL. With this Offset Generator and a new Zero Crossing Detector, recently developed at JPL, the measurement flow was reduced by a factor of 5.5 at 1 second tau, 3.0 at 1000 seconds, and 9.4 at 10,000 seconds, compared against the previous design. In addition to the new circuit designs of the Offset Generator and Zero Crossing Detector, tighter control of the measurement equipment environment was required to achieve this improvement. The design of this new Offset Generator are described, along with details of the environment control methods used.

  5. Lower extremity sagittal joint moment production during split-belt treadmill walking

    PubMed Central

    Roemmich, Ryan T.; Stegemöller, Elizabeth L.; Hass, Chris J.

    2012-01-01

    The split-belt treadmill (SBT) has recently been used to rehabilitate locomotor asymmetries in clinical populations. However, the joint mechanics produced while walking on a SBT are not well-understood. The purpose of this study was to investigate the lower extremity sagittal joint moments produced by each limb during SBT walking and provide insight as to how these joint moment patterns may be useful in rehabilitating unilateral gait deficits. Thirteen healthy young volunteers walked on the SBT with the belts tied and in a “SPLIT” session in which one belt moved twice as fast as the other. Sagittal lower extremity joint moment and ground reaction force impulses were then calculated over the braking and propulsive phases of the gait cycle. Paired t-tests were performed to analyze magnitude differences between conditions (i.e. the fast and slow limbs during SPLIT vs. the same limb during tied-belt walking) and between the fast and slow limbs during SPLIT. During the SPLIT session, the fast limb produced higher ground reaction force and ankle moment impulses during the propulsive and braking phases, and lower knee moment impulses during the propulsive phase when compared to the slow limb. The knee moment impulse was also significantly higher during braking in the slow limb than in the fast limb. The mechanics of each limb during the SPLIT session also differed from the mechanics observed when the belt speeds were tied. Based on these findings, we suggest that each belt may have intrinsic value in rehabilitating specific unilateral locomotor deficits. PMID:22985473

  6. Trade Offsets in Foreign Military Sales

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1984-04-13

    subcontrac- tor production, overseas investment, technology transfer, and countertrade . (See app. II for a definition of each element of offsets.) B...incorporate offsets--defined as coproduction, licensed production, countertrade , subcontracting, and technology transfer--mandated by foreiqn qovernments as a...APPENDIX II COUNTERTRADE Purchase of qoods and services from the buyer country as a condition of the offset agreement, excluding purchases under

  7. Sagittal tibiotalar translation and clinical outcomes in mobile and fixed-bearing total ankle replacement.

    PubMed

    Usuelli, Federico G; Manzi, Luigi; Brusaferri, Giovanni; Neher, Robert E; Guelfi, Matteo; Maccario, Camilla

    2017-06-01

    Sagittal implant malalignment after total ankle replacement (TAR) has been considered to be a possible cause for premature implant failure. In a prior study, the change over time of the tibiotalar ratio (T-T ratio), which is the ratio between the posterior longitudinal talar length and the full longitudinal talar length, was assessed in 66 TARs where an unconstrained, mobile-bearing implant was implanted. The analysis documented an increase in the T-T ratio between 2 and 6 months post-surgery (on average from 34.6% to 37.2%). We hypothesized that this change might have been related to the presence of a mobile-bearing insert. In order to test our hypothesis, we designed a study to compare the translation of the talus in TARs performed with an unconstrained, mobile-bearing implant (designated the "Mobile ankle") and those performed with a semi-constrained, fixed-bearing implant (designated the "Fixed ankle"). The study included 71 consecutive patients (71 ankles) who underwent TAR with the Mobile ankle and 24 consecutive patients (24 ankles) who received the Fixed ankle from May 2011 to December 2014. Patients were assessed clinically and radiologically preoperatively (T 0 ), at 6 months (T 2 ) and 12 months (T 3 ) post-surgery. There was also a radiological assessment at 2 months post-surgery (T 1 ). The comparison of the T-T ratio between the two implant groups and over time indicated an interaction between time and group, therefore the changes of the T-T ratio over time were affected by the implant type factor (P<0.001). The changes of the postoperative T-T ratio over time were not significant in the Fixed ankle group (35.7±6.7% at T 1 , T 2 , and T 3 ; P=1.0 for each pairwise comparison). In the Mobile ankle group, the T-T ratio at 2 months (34.4±5.5%) was significantly different to the T-T ratio at 6 months (37.0±5.8%; P<0.001; i.e. there was a significant posterior translation of the talus). The AOFAS score increased from preop to 12 months post-surgery in

  8. Ammonia Offgassing from SA9T

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Monje, Oscar; Nolek, Sara D.; Wheeler, Raymond M.

    2011-01-01

    NH3 is a degradation product of SA9T, a solid-amine sorbent developed by Hamilton Sundstrand, that is continually emitted into the gas stream being conditioned by this sorbent. NH3 offgassing rates were measured using FTIR spectroscopy using a packed bed at similar contact times as offgassing tests conducted at Hamilton Sundstrand and at the Ames Research Center. The bed was challenged with moist air at several flow rates and humidities and NH3 concentration of the effluent was measured for several hours. The NH3 offgassing rates in open-loop testing were calculated from the steady state outlet NH3 concentration and flow rate. NH3 offgassing rates from SA9T were found to be influenced by the contact time with the adsorbent (flow rate) and by the humidity of the inlet gas stream, which are consistent with previous studies. Closed-loop vacuum-swing adsorption cycling rates verified that NH3 offgassing continues when a constant source of water vapor is present.

  9. Investigation of the reproducibility and reliability of sagittal vertebral inclination measurements from MR images of the spine.

    PubMed

    Vrtovec, Tomaž; Pernuš, Franjo; Likar, Boštjan

    2014-10-01

    In this study, sagittal vertebral inclination (SVI) was systematically evaluated for 28 vertebrae (segments between T4 and L5) in magnetic resonance (MR) images of one normal and one scoliotic subject to compare the performance of manual and computerized measurements, and identify the most reproducible and reliable measurements. Manual measurements were performed by three observers, who identified on two occasions the distinctive anatomical landmarks required to evaluate SVI by six measurement methods, i.e. the superior tangents, inferior tangents, anterior tangents, posterior tangents, mid-endplate lines and mid-wall lines. Computerized measurements were performed by automatically evaluating SVI from the symmetry of vertebral anatomical structures in two-dimensional (2D) sagittal cross-sections and in three-dimensional (3D) volumetric images. The mid-wall lines and posterior tangents proved to be the manual measurements with the lowest intra-observer (standard deviation, SD, of 1.4° and 1.7°, respectively) and inter-observer variability (SD of 1.9° and 2.4°, respectively). The strongest inter-method agreement was found between the mid-wall lines and posterior tangents (SD of 2.0°). Computerized measurements in 2D and in 3D resulted in intra-observer (SD of 2.8° and 3.1°, respectively) and inter-observer variability (SD of 3.8° and 5.2°, respectively) that were comparable to those of the superior tangents (SD of 2.6° and 3.7°) and inferior tangents (SD of 3.2° and 4.5°), which represent standard Cobb angle measurements. It can be concluded that computerized measurements of SVI should be based on the inclination of vertebral body walls. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  10. T1-weighted brain imaging with a 32-channel coil at 3T using TurboFLASH BLADE compared with standard cartesian k-space sampling.

    PubMed

    Attenberger, Ulrike I; Runge, Val M; Williams, Kenneth D; Stemmer, Alto; Michaely, Henrik J; Schoenberg, Stefan O; Reiser, Maximilian F; Wintersperger, Bernd J

    2009-03-01

    Motion artifacts often markedly degrade image quality in clinical scans. The BLADE technique offers an alternative k-space sampling scheme reducing the effect of patient related motion on image quality. The purpose of this study is the comparison of imaging artifacts, signal-to-noise (SNR), and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) of a new turboFLASH BLADE k-space trajectory with the standard Cartesian k-space sampling for brain imaging, using a 32-channel coil at 3T. The results from 32 patients included after informed consent are reported. This study was performed with a 32-channel head coil on a 3T scanner. Sagittal and axial T1-weighted FLASH sequences (TR/TE 250/2.46 milliseconds, flip angle 70-degree), acquired with Cartesian k-space sampling and T1-weighted turboFLASH sequences (TR/TE/TIsag/TIax 3200/2.77/1144/1056 milliseconds, flip angle 20-degree), using PROPELLER (BLADE) k-space trajectory, were compared. SNR and CNR were evaluated using a paired student t test. The frequency of motion artifacts was assessed in a blinded read. To analyze the differences between both techniques a McNemar test was performed. A P value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. From the blinded read, the overall preference in terms of diagnostic image quality was statistically significant in favor of the BLADE turboFLASH data sets, compared with standard FLASH for both sagittal (P < 0.0001) and axial (P < 0.0001) planes. The frequency of motion artifacts from the scalp was higher for standard FLASH sequences than for BLADE sequences on both axial (47%, P < 0.0003) and sagittal (69%, P < 0.0001) planes. BLADE was preferred in 100% (sagittal plane) and 80% (axial plane) of in-patient data sets and in 68% (sagittal plane) and 73% (axial plane) of out-patient data sets.The BLADE T1 scan did have lower SNRmean (BLADEax 179 +/- 98, Cartesianax 475 +/- 145, BLADEsag 171 +/- 51, and Cartesiansag 697 +/- 129) with P values indicating accordingly a statistically significant difference

  11. Measurement and Finite Element Model Validation of Immature Porcine Brain-Skull Displacement during Rapid Sagittal Head Rotations.

    PubMed

    Pasquesi, Stephanie A; Margulies, Susan S

    2018-01-01

    Computational models are valuable tools for studying tissue-level mechanisms of traumatic brain injury, but to produce more accurate estimates of tissue deformation, these models must be validated against experimental data. In this study, we present in situ measurements of brain-skull displacement in the neonatal piglet head ( n  = 3) at the sagittal midline during six rapid non-impact rotations (two rotations per specimen) with peak angular velocities averaging 51.7 ± 1.4 rad/s. Marks on the sagittally cut brain and skull/rigid potting surfaces were tracked, and peak values of relative brain-skull displacement were extracted and found to be significantly less than values extracted from a previous axial plane model. In a finite element model of the sagittally transected neonatal porcine head, the brain-skull boundary condition was matched to the measured physical experiment data. Despite smaller sagittal plane displacements at the brain-skull boundary, the corresponding finite element boundary condition optimized for sagittal plane rotations is far less stiff than its axial counterpart, likely due to the prominent role of the boundary geometry in restricting interface movement. Finally, bridging veins were included in the finite element model. Varying the bridging vein mechanical behavior over a previously reported range had no influence on the brain-skull boundary displacements. This direction-specific sagittal plane boundary condition can be employed in finite element models of rapid sagittal head rotations.

  12. Measurement and Finite Element Model Validation of Immature Porcine Brain–Skull Displacement during Rapid Sagittal Head Rotations

    PubMed Central

    Pasquesi, Stephanie A.; Margulies, Susan S.

    2018-01-01

    Computational models are valuable tools for studying tissue-level mechanisms of traumatic brain injury, but to produce more accurate estimates of tissue deformation, these models must be validated against experimental data. In this study, we present in situ measurements of brain–skull displacement in the neonatal piglet head (n = 3) at the sagittal midline during six rapid non-impact rotations (two rotations per specimen) with peak angular velocities averaging 51.7 ± 1.4 rad/s. Marks on the sagittally cut brain and skull/rigid potting surfaces were tracked, and peak values of relative brain–skull displacement were extracted and found to be significantly less than values extracted from a previous axial plane model. In a finite element model of the sagittally transected neonatal porcine head, the brain–skull boundary condition was matched to the measured physical experiment data. Despite smaller sagittal plane displacements at the brain–skull boundary, the corresponding finite element boundary condition optimized for sagittal plane rotations is far less stiff than its axial counterpart, likely due to the prominent role of the boundary geometry in restricting interface movement. Finally, bridging veins were included in the finite element model. Varying the bridging vein mechanical behavior over a previously reported range had no influence on the brain–skull boundary displacements. This direction-specific sagittal plane boundary condition can be employed in finite element models of rapid sagittal head rotations. PMID:29515995

  13. Assessment of spring cranioplasty biomechanics in sagittal craniosynostosis patients.

    PubMed

    Borghi, Alessandro; Schievano, Silvia; Rodriguez Florez, Naiara; McNicholas, Roisin; Rodgers, Will; Ponniah, Allan; James, Greg; Hayward, Richard; Dunaway, David; Jeelani, N U Owase

    2017-11-01

    OBJECTIVE Scaphocephaly secondary to sagittal craniosynostosis has been treated in recent years with spring-assisted cranioplasty, an innovative approach that leverages the use of metallic spring distractors to reshape the patient skull. In this study, a population of patients who had undergone spring cranioplasty for the correction of scaphocephaly at the Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children was retrospectively analyzed to systematically assess spring biomechanical performance and kinematics in relation to spring model, patient age, and outcomes over time. METHODS Data from 60 patients (49 males, mean age at surgery 5.2 ± 0.9 months) who had received 2 springs for the treatment of isolated sagittal craniosynostosis were analyzed. The opening distance of the springs at the time of insertion and removal was retrieved from the surgical notes and, during the implantation period, from planar radiographs obtained at 1 day postoperatively and at the 3-week follow-up. The force exerted by the spring to the patient skull at each time point was derived after mechanical testing of each spring model-3 devices with the same geometry but different wire thicknesses. Changes in the cephalic index between preoperatively and the 3-week follow-up were recorded. RESULTS Stiffer springs were implanted in older patients (p < 0.05) to achieve the same opening on-table as in younger patients, but this entailed significantly different-higher-forces exerted on the skull when combinations of stiffer springs were used (p < 0.001). After initial force differences between spring models, however, the devices all plateaued. Indeed, regardless of patient age or spring model, after 10 days from insertion, all the devices were open. CONCLUSIONS Results in this study provide biomechanical insights into spring-assisted cranioplasty and could help to improve spring design and follow-up strategy in the future.

  14. 5 CFR 837.701 - Offset from supplemental annuity.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 5 Administrative Personnel 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Offset from supplemental annuity. 837.701... REGULATIONS (CONTINUED) REEMPLOYMENT OF ANNUITANTS CSRS Offset § 837.701 Offset from supplemental annuity. (a) OPM will reduce the supplemental annuity of an individual who has performed CSRS-Offset service, if...

  15. 5 CFR 1639.27 - Procedures for salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 5 Administrative Personnel 3 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Procedures for salary offset. 1639.27... Salary Offset § 1639.27 Procedures for salary offset. (a) The Board will coordinate salary deductions... pay and will implement the salary offset. (c) Deductions will begin within three official pay periods...

  16. 45 CFR 607.4 - Notice requirements before offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 3 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Notice requirements before offset. 607.4 Section 607.4 Public Welfare Regulations Relating to Public Welfare (Continued) NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION SALARY OFFSET § 607.4 Notice requirements before offset. (a) Salary offset shall not be made against an...

  17. 45 CFR 607.4 - Notice requirements before offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 3 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Notice requirements before offset. 607.4 Section 607.4 Public Welfare Regulations Relating to Public Welfare (Continued) NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION SALARY OFFSET § 607.4 Notice requirements before offset. (a) Salary offset shall not be made against an...

  18. 45 CFR 607.4 - Notice requirements before offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 3 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Notice requirements before offset. 607.4 Section 607.4 Public Welfare Regulations Relating to Public Welfare (Continued) NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION SALARY OFFSET § 607.4 Notice requirements before offset. (a) Salary offset shall not be made against an...

  19. Correlations between the feature of sagittal spinopelvic alignment and facet joint degeneration: a retrospective study.

    PubMed

    Lv, Xin; Liu, Yuan; Zhou, Song; Wang, Qiang; Gu, Houyun; Fu, Xiaoxing; Ding, Yi; Zhang, Bin; Dai, Min

    2016-08-15

    Sagittal spinopelvic alignment changes associated with degenerative facet joint arthritis have been assessed in a few studies. It has been documented that patients with facet joint degeneration have higher pelvic incidence, but the relationship between facet joint degeneration and other sagittal spinopelvic alignment parameters is still disputed. Our purpose was to evaluate the correlation between the features of sagittal spinopelvic alignment and facet joint degeneration. Imaging data of 140 individuals were retrospectively analysed. Lumbar lordosis, pelvic tilt (PT), pelvic incidence (PI), sacral slope, and height of the lumbar intervertebral disc were measured on lumbar X-ray plates. Grades of facet joint degeneration were evaluated from the L2 to S1 on CT scans. Spearman's rank correlation coefficient and Student's t-test were used for statistical analyses, and a P-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. PI was positively associated with degeneration of the facet joint at lower lumbar levels (p < 0.001 r = 0.50 at L5/S1 and P = 0.002 r = 0.25 at L4/5). A significant increase of PT was found in the severe degeneration group compared with the mild degeneration group: 22.0° vs 15.7°, P = 0.034 at L2/3;21.4°vs 15.1°, P = 0.006 at L3/4; 21.0° vs 13.5°, P = 0.000 at L4/5; 20.8° vs 12.1°, P = 0.000 at L5/S1. Our results indicate that a high PI is a predisposing factor for facet joint degeneration at the lower lumbar spine, and that severe facet joint degeneration may accompany with greater PT at lumbar spine.

  20. 22 CFR 309.17 - Procedures for salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 22 Foreign Relations 2 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 true Procedures for salary offset. 309.17 Section 309.17 Foreign Relations PEACE CORPS DEBT COLLECTION Salary Offset § 309.17 Procedures for salary offset. Unless otherwise provided by statute or contract, the following procedures apply to salary offset: (a...

  1. 7 CFR 3.46 - Offset against tax refunds.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Offset against tax refunds. 3.46 Section 3.46 Agriculture Office of the Secretary of Agriculture DEBT MANAGEMENT Administrative Offset § 3.46 Offset against tax refunds. USDA will take action to effect administrative offset against tax refunds due to debtors...

  2. Analysis of Sagittal Parameters in Patients Undergoing One- or Two-Level Closing Wedge Osteotomy for Correcting Thoracolumbar Kyphosis Secondary to Ankylosing Spondylitis.

    PubMed

    Hua, Wen-Bin; Zhang, Yu-Kun; Gao, Yong; Liu, Xian-Zhe; Yang, Shu-Hua; Wu, Xing-Huo; Wang, Jing; Yang, Cao

    2017-07-15

    Retrospective analysis of clinical records. To assess and compare the improvement in sagittal balance after one- or two-level closing wedge osteotomy for correcting thoracolumbar kyphosis secondary to ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Closing wedge osteotomy represents a common approach to correct kyphosis in AS. Although several reports have described the outcomes of one- or two-level closing wedge osteotomy in terms of sagittal parameters, data comparing the outcomes of these procedures are scarce. Between January 2010 and December 2014, 22 patients with AS underwent closing wedge osteotomy (one-level, 12 patients; two-level, 10 patients) for correcting thoracolumbar kyphosis (mean follow-up, 24.8 months; range, 12-60 months). Preoperative and postoperative chin-brow vertical angle, and the sagittal parameters of the vertebral osteotomy segment were documented and compared. Perioperative and postoperative complications were also recorded. The chin-brow vertical angle improved significantly, from 55.0° ± 27.3° to 4.7° ± 4.9° and from 38.2° ± 14.9° to 3.2° ± 5.4° in the one-level and two-level groups, respectively. The total correction (thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis) was 32.8° ± 18.2° and 53.7° ± 9.4° in the one-level and two-level groups, respectively. No death, complete paralysis, or vascular complications occurred during the procedure, but cerebrospinal fluid leak was noted in one and two patients from the one-level and two-level groups, respectively. A distal pedicle screw adjacent to the osteotomy segment became loose during surgery in one patient (one-level group). Postoperatively, no transient neurological deficit, infection, delay union, or loosening or breaking of the internal fixation devices was observed. Osteotomy site fusion was achieved in all patients, and the Oswestry Disability Index scores improved significantly. Closing wedge osteotomy is effective and safe for correcting thoracolumbar kyphosis in

  3. Non-water-suppressed 1 H FID-MRSI at 3T and 9.4T.

    PubMed

    Chang, Paul; Nassirpour, Sahar; Avdievitch, Nikolai; Henning, Anke

    2018-08-01

    This study investigates metabolite concentrations using metabolite-cycled 1 H free induction decay (FID) magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) at ultra-high fields. A non-lipid-suppressed and slice-selective ultra-short echo time (TE) 1 H FID MRSI sequence was combined with a low-specific absorption rate (SAR) asymmetric inversion adiabatic pulse to enable non-water-suppressed metabolite mapping using metabolite-cycling at 9.4T. The results were compared to a water-suppressed FID MRSI sequence, and the same study was performed at 3T for comparison. The scan times for performing single-slice metabolite mapping with a nominal voxel size of 0.4 mL were 14 and 17.5 min on 3T and 9.4T, respectively. The low-SAR asymmetric inversion adiabatic pulse enabled reliable non-water-suppressed metabolite mapping using metabolite cycling at both 3T and 9.4T. The spectra and maps showed good agreement with the water-suppressed FID MRSI ones at both field strengths. A quantitative analysis of metabolite ratios with respect to N-acetyl aspartate (NAA) was performed. The difference in Cre/NAA was statistically significant, ∼0.1 higher for the non-water-suppressed case than for water suppression (from 0.73 to 0.64 at 3T and from 0.69 to 0.59 at 9.4T). The difference is likely because of chemical exchange effects of the water suppression pulses. Small differences in mI/NAA were also statistically significant, however, are they are less reliable because the metabolite peaks are close to the water peak that may be affected by the water suppression pulses or metabolite-cycling inversion pulse. We showed the first implementation of non-water-suppressed metabolite-cycled 1 H FID MRSI at ultra-high fields. An increase in Cre/NAA was seen for the metabolite-cycled case. The same methodology was further applied at 3T and similar results were observed. Magn Reson Med 80:442-451, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. © 2017 International Society

  4. 5 CFR 179.211 - Notice of salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 5 Administrative Personnel 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Notice of salary offset. 179.211 Section... COLLECTION STANDARDS Salary Offset § 179.211 Notice of salary offset. (a) Upon receipt of proper... certification as the debtor, a written notice of salary offset. Such notice shall, at a minimum: (1) State that...

  5. Effect of alignment changes on sagittal and coronal socket reaction moment interactions in transtibial prostheses.

    PubMed

    Kobayashi, Toshiki; Orendurff, Michael S; Zhang, Ming; Boone, David A

    2013-04-26

    Alignment is important for comfortable and stable gait of lower-limb prosthesis users. The magnitude of socket reaction moments in the multiple planes acting simultaneously upon the residual limb may be related to perception of comfort in individuals using prostheses through socket interface pressures. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of prosthetic alignment changes on sagittal and coronal socket reaction moment interactions (moment-moment curves) and to characterize the curves in 11 individuals with transtibial amputation using novel moment-moment interaction parameters measured by plotting sagittal socket reaction moments versus coronal ones under various alignment conditions. A custom instrumented prosthesis alignment component was used to measure socket reaction moments during walking. Prosthetic alignment was tuned to a nominally aligned condition by a prosthetist, and from this position, angular (3° and 6° of flexion, extension, abduction or adduction of the socket) and translational (5mm and 10mm of anterior, posterior, medial or lateral translation of the socket) alignment changes were performed in either the sagittal or the coronal plane in a randomized manner. A total of 17 alignment conditions were tested. Coronal angulation and translation alignment changes demonstrated similar consistent changes in the moment-moment curves. Sagittal alignment changes demonstrated more complex changes compared to the coronal alignment changes. Effect of sagittal angulations and translations on the moment-moment curves was different during 2nd rocker (mid-stance) with extension malalignment appearing to cause medio-lateral instability. Presentation of coronal and sagittal socket reaction moment interactions may provide useful visual information for prosthetists to understand the biomechanical effects of malalignment of transtibial prostheses. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  6. Fluoroscopy and imageless navigation enable an equivalent reconstruction of leg length and global and femoral offset in THA.

    PubMed

    Weber, Markus; Woerner, Michael; Springorum, Robert; Sendtner, Ernst; Hapfelmeier, Alexander; Grifka, Joachim; Renkawitz, Tobias

    2014-10-01

    = 0.729) between fluoroscopy and navigation, 0.2 mm (95 % CI, -0.9 to +1.3 mm; p = 0.740) for global offset and 1.7 mm (95 % CI, +0.4 to +2.9 mm; p = 0.008) for femoral offset. For the absolute precision of leg length and global and femoral offset equalization, there was a mean difference of 1.7 ± 0.3 mm (p < 0.001) between fluoroscopy and navigation. The biomechanical reconstruction with a residual leg length and global and femoral offset discrepancy less than 5 mm and less than 8 mm, respectively, succeeded in 93% and 98%, respectively, in the navigation group and in 54% and 95%, respectively, in the fluoroscopy group. Intraoperative fluoroscopy and imageless navigation seem equivalent in accuracy and precision to reconstruct leg length and global and femoral offset during MIS THA with the patient in the lateral decubitus position.

  7. Consequences of carbon offset payments for the global forest sector

    Treesearch

    Joseph Buongiorno; Shushuai. Zhu

    2013-01-01

    Long-term effects of policies to induce carbon storage in forests were projected with the Global Forest Products Model. Offset pay- ments for carbon sequestered in forest biomass of $15–$50/t CO2 e applied in all countries increased CO2 sequestration in world forests by 5–14 billion tons from 2009 to 2030. Limiting implementation to developed countries exported...

  8. Automatic extraction of the mid-sagittal plane using an ICP variant

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fieten, Lorenz; Eschweiler, Jörg; de la Fuente, Matías; Gravius, Sascha; Radermacher, Klaus

    2008-03-01

    Precise knowledge of the mid-sagittal plane is important for the assessment and correction of several deformities. Furthermore, the mid-sagittal plane can be used for the definition of standardized coordinate systems such as pelvis or skull coordinate systems. A popular approach for mid-sagittal plane computation is based on the selection of anatomical landmarks located either directly on the plane or symmetrically to it. However, the manual selection of landmarks is a tedious, time-consuming and error-prone task, which requires great care. In order to overcome this drawback, previously it was suggested to use the iterative closest point (ICP) algorithm: After an initial mirroring of the data points on a default mirror plane, the mirrored data points should be registered iteratively to the model points using rigid transforms. Finally, a reflection transform approximating the cumulative transform could be extracted. In this work, we present an ICP variant for the iterative optimization of the reflection parameters. It is based on a closed-form solution to the least-squares problem of matching data points to model points using a reflection. In experiments on CT pelvis and skull datasets our method showed a better ability to match homologous areas.

  9. 45 CFR 607.4 - Notice requirements before offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 3 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Notice requirements before offset. 607.4 Section 607.4 Public Welfare Regulations Relating to Public Welfare (Continued) NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION SALARY OFFSET § 607.4 Notice requirements before offset. (a) Salary offset shall not be made against an employee's pay unless the employee is provided...

  10. 45 CFR 607.4 - Notice requirements before offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 3 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Notice requirements before offset. 607.4 Section 607.4 Public Welfare Regulations Relating to Public Welfare (Continued) NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION SALARY OFFSET § 607.4 Notice requirements before offset. (a) Salary offset shall not be made against an employee's pay unless the employee is provided...

  11. 12 CFR 608.839 - Procedures for salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 12 Banks and Banking 6 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Procedures for salary offset. 608.839 Section... OWED THE UNITED STATES Offset Against Salary § 608.839 Procedures for salary offset. (a) The Chairman... Intent to Collect by Salary Offset. (c)(1) If the amount of the debt is equal to or is less than 15...

  12. 12 CFR 1408.39 - Procedures for salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 12 Banks and Banking 7 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Procedures for salary offset. 1408.39 Section... STATES Offset Against Salary § 1408.39 Procedures for salary offset. (a) The Chairman, or designee of the... periods following the date of mailing or delivery of the Notice of Intent to Collect by Salary Offset. (c...

  13. 13 CFR 120.1722 - SBA's offset rights.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 13 Business Credit and Assistance 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false SBA's offset rights. 120.1722... of SBA Secondary Market Guarantee Program for First Lien Position 504 Loan Pools § 120.1722 SBA's offset rights. SBA shall have the right to offset any amount owed by Lender to SBA, including, without...

  14. 34 CFR 32.3 - Pre-offset notice.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 34 Education 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Pre-offset notice. 32.3 Section 32.3 Education Office of the Secretary, Department of Education SALARY OFFSET TO RECOVER OVERPAYMENTS OF PAY OR ALLOWANCES FROM DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION EMPLOYEES § 32.3 Pre-offset notice. At least 30 days before initiating a...

  15. Utilization of curve offsets in additive manufacturing

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Haseltalab, Vahid; Yaman, Ulas; Dolen, Melik

    2018-05-01

    Curve offsets are utilized in different fields of engineering and science. Additive manufacturing, which lately becomes an explicit requirement in manufacturing industry, utilizes curve offsets widely. One of the necessities of offsetting is for scaling which is required if there is shrinkage after the fabrication or if the surface quality of the resulting part is unacceptable. Therefore, some post-processing is indispensable. But the major application of curve offsets in additive manufacturing processes is for generating head trajectories. In a point-wise AM process, a correct tool-path in each layer can reduce lots of costs and increase the surface quality of the fabricated parts. In this study, different curve offset generation algorithms are analyzed to show their capabilities and disadvantages through some test cases and improvements on their drawbacks are suggested.

  16. Evaluation of Andrews' Analysis as a Predictor of Ideal Sagittal Maxillary Positioning in Orthognathic Surgery.

    PubMed

    Resnick, Cory M; Kim, Somi; Yorlets, Rachel R; Calabrese, Carly E; Peacock, Zachary S; Kaban, Leonard B

    2018-03-22

    There is no universally accepted method for determining the ideal sagittal position of the maxilla in orthognathic surgery. In "Element II" of "The Six Elements of Orofacial Harmony," Andrews used the forehead to define the goal maxillary position. The purpose of this study was to compare how well this analysis correlated with postoperative findings in patients who underwent bimaxillary orthognathic surgery planned using other guidelines. The authors hypothesized that the Andrews analysis would more consistently reflect clinical outcomes than standard angular and linear measurements. This is a retrospective cohort study of patients who had bimaxillary orthognathic surgery and achieved an acceptable esthetic outcome. Patients with no maxillary sagittal movement, obstructive sleep apnea, cleft or craniofacial diagnoses, or who were non-Caucasian were excluded. Treatment plans were developed using photographs, radiographs, and standard cephalometric measurements. The Andrews analysis, measuring the distance from the maxillary incisor to the goal anterior limit line, and standard measurements were applied to end-treatment records. The Andrews analysis was statistically compared with standard methods. There were 493 patients who had orthognathic surgery from 2007 through 2014, and 60 (62% women; mean age, 22.1 ± 6.8 yr) met the criteria for inclusion in this study. The mean Andrews distances were -4.8 ± 2.9 mm for women and -8.6 ± 4.6 mm for men preoperatively and -0.6 ± 2.1 mm for women and -1.9 ± 3.4 mm for men postoperatively. For women, the Andrews analysis was closer to the goal value (0 mm) postoperatively than any standard measurement (P < .001). For men, the linear distance from the A point to a vertical line tangent to the nasion from the McNamara analysis performed best (P < .001), followed by the Andrews analysis. The Andrews analysis correlated well with the final esthetic sagittal maxillary position in the present sample

  17. 10 CFR 1015.215 - Federal salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 10 Energy 4 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Federal salary offset. 1015.215 Section 1015.215 Energy... Administrative Collection of Claims § 1015.215 Federal salary offset. (a) DOE may authorize Treasury to offset a Federal salary to satisfy delinquent debt in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 5514, Installment Deduction for...

  18. 34 CFR 31.3 - Pre-offset notice.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 34 Education 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Pre-offset notice. 31.3 Section 31.3 Education Office of the Secretary, Department of Education SALARY OFFSET FOR FEDERAL EMPLOYEES WHO ARE INDEBTED TO THE UNITED STATES UNDER PROGRAMS ADMINISTERED BY THE SECRETARY OF EDUCATION § 31.3 Pre-offset notice. (a) At...

  19. Optimization of Connector Position Offset for Bandwidth Enhancement of a Multimode Optical Fiber Link

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Rawat, Banmali

    2000-01-01

    The multimode fiber bandwidth enhancement techniques to meet the Gigabit Ethernet standards for local area networks (LAN) of the Kennedy Space Center and other NASA centers have been discussed. Connector with lateral offset coupling between single mode launch fiber cable and the multimode fiber cable has been thoroughly investigated. An optimization of connector position offset for 8 km long optical fiber link at 1300 nm with 9 micrometer diameter single mode fiber (SMF) and 50 micrometer diameter multimode fiber (MMF) coupling has been obtained. The optimization is done in terms of bandwidth, eye-pattern, and bit pattern measurements. It is simpler, is a highly practical approach and is cheaper as no additional cost to manufacture the offset type of connectors is involved.

  20. Clinical outcomes, radiologic kinematics, and effects on sagittal balance of the 6 df LP-ESP lumbar disc prosthesis.

    PubMed

    Lazennec, Jean-Yves; Even, Julien; Skalli, Wafa; Rakover, Jean-Patrick; Brusson, Adrien; Rousseau, Marc-Antoine

    2014-09-01

    Surgical treatment of degenerative disc disease remains a controversial subject. Lumbar fusion has been associated with a potential risk of segmental junctional disease and sagittal balance misalignment. Motion preservation devices have been developed as an alternative to fusion. The LP-ESP disc is a one-piece deformable device achieving 6 df, including shock absorption and elastic return. This is the first clinical report on its use. To assess clinical outcomes and radiologic kinematics in the first 2 years after implantation. Prospective cohort of patients with LP-ESP total disc replacement (TDR) at the lumbar spine. Forty-six consecutive patients. Clinical outcomes were the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, the Oswestry disability index (ODI), and the GHQ28 (General Health Questionnaire) psychological score. Radiologic data were the range of motion (ROM), sagittal balance parameters, and mean center of rotation (MCR). Patients had single-level TDR at L4-L5 or L5-S1. Outcomes were prospectively recorded for 2 years (before and at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months after surgery). The SpineView software was used for computed analysis of the radiographic data. Paired t tests were used for statistical comparisons. No intraoperative complication occurred. All clinical scores improved significantly at 24 months: the back pain VAS scores by a mean of 4.1 points and the ODI by 33 points. The average ROM of the instrumented level was 5.4°±4.8° at 2 years and more than 2° for 76% of prostheses. The MCR was in a physiological area in 73% of cases. The sagittal balance (pelvic tilt, sacral slope, and segmental lordosis) did not change significantly at any point of the follow-up. Results from the 2-year follow-up indicate that LP-ESP prosthesis recreates lumbar spine function similar to that of the healthy disc in terms of ROM, quality of movement, effect on sagittal balance, and absence of modification in the kinematics of the upper adjacent level. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc

  1. Does Shoe Collar Height Influence Ankle Joint Kinematics and Kinetics in Sagittal Plane Maneuvers?

    PubMed Central

    Yang, Yang; Fang, Ying; Zhang, Xini; He, Junliang; Fu, Weijie

    2017-01-01

    The Objective of the study is to investigate the effects of basketball shoes with different collar heights on ankle kinematics and kinetics and athletic performance in different sagittal plane maneuvers. Twelve participants who wore high-top and low-top basketball shoes (hereafter, HS and LS, respectively) performed a weight-bearing dorsiflexion (WB-DF) maneuver, drop jumps (DJs), and lay-up jumps (LJs). Their sagittal plane kinematics and ground reaction forces were recorded using the Vicon motion capture system and Kistler force plates simultaneously. Moreover, ankle dorsiflexion and plantarflexion angles, moment, power, stiffness, and jump height were calculated. In the WB-DF test, the peak ankle dorsiflexion angle (p = 0.041) was significantly smaller in HS than in LS. Additionally, the peak ankle plantarflexion moment (p = 0.028) and power (p = 0.022) were significantly lower in HS than in LS during LJs but not during DJs. In both jumping maneuvers, no significant differences were found in the jump height or ankle kinematics between the two shoe types. According to the WB-DF test, increasing shoe collar height can effectively reduce the ankle range of motion in the sagittal plane. Although the HS did not restrict the flexion–extension performance of the ankle joint during two jumping maneuvers, an increased shoe collar height can reduce peak ankle plantarflexion moment and peak power during the push-off phase in LJs. Therefore, a higher shoe collar height should be used to circumvent effects on the partial kinetics of the ankle joint in the sagittal plane. Key points An increased shoe collar height effectively reduced ankle joint ROM in the sagittal plane in weight-bearing dorsiflexion maneuver. Shoe collar height did not affect sagittal plane ankle kinematics and had no effect on performance during realistic jumping. Shoe collar height can affect the ankle plantarflexion torque and peak power during the push-off phase in lay-up jump. PMID:29238255

  2. Offsets Revisited

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1988-01-01

    an import... Wliat countertrade does is to close that loop in a much more dramatic fashion. ALESA Testimony. This comment implies that despite the...1985. 11. Testimony of the American League for Exports and Security Assistance (ALESA)," In Countertrade and Offsets International Trade, Hearings

  3. Generation of knock-in primary human T cells using Cas9 ribonucleoproteins

    DOE PAGES

    Schumann, Kathrin; Lin, Steven; Boyer, Eric; ...

    2015-07-27

    T-cell genome engineering holds great promise for cell-based therapies for cancer, HIV, primary immune deficiencies, and autoimmune diseases, but genetic manipulation of human T cells has been challenging. Improved tools are needed to efficiently “knock out” genes and “knock in” targeted genome modifications to modulate T-cell function and correct disease-associated mutations. CRISPR/Cas9 technology is facilitating genome engineering in many cell types, but in human T cells its efficiency has been limited and it has not yet proven useful for targeted nucleotide replacements. Here we report efficient genome engineering in human CD4 + T cells using Cas9:single-guide RNA ribonucleoproteins (Cas9 RNPs).more » Cas9 RNPs allowed ablation of CXCR4, a coreceptor for HIV entry. Cas9 RNP electroporation caused up to ~40% of cells to lose high-level cell-surface expression of CXCR4, and edited cells could be enriched by sorting based on low CXCR4 expression. Importantly, Cas9 RNPs paired with homology-directed repair template oligonucleotides generated a high frequency of targeted genome modifications in primary T cells. Targeted nucleotide replacement was achieved in CXCR4 and PD-1 ( PDCD1), a regulator of T-cell exhaustion that is a validated target for tumor immunotherapy. Deep sequencing of a target site confirmed that Cas9 RNPs generated knock-in genome modifications with up to ~20% efficiency, which accounted for up to approximately one-third of total editing events. These results establish Cas9 RNP technology for diverse experimental and therapeutic genome engineering applications in primary human T cells.« less

  4. Generation of knock-in primary human T cells using Cas9 ribonucleoproteins

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Schumann, Kathrin; Lin, Steven; Boyer, Eric

    T-cell genome engineering holds great promise for cell-based therapies for cancer, HIV, primary immune deficiencies, and autoimmune diseases, but genetic manipulation of human T cells has been challenging. Improved tools are needed to efficiently “knock out” genes and “knock in” targeted genome modifications to modulate T-cell function and correct disease-associated mutations. CRISPR/Cas9 technology is facilitating genome engineering in many cell types, but in human T cells its efficiency has been limited and it has not yet proven useful for targeted nucleotide replacements. Here we report efficient genome engineering in human CD4 + T cells using Cas9:single-guide RNA ribonucleoproteins (Cas9 RNPs).more » Cas9 RNPs allowed ablation of CXCR4, a coreceptor for HIV entry. Cas9 RNP electroporation caused up to ~40% of cells to lose high-level cell-surface expression of CXCR4, and edited cells could be enriched by sorting based on low CXCR4 expression. Importantly, Cas9 RNPs paired with homology-directed repair template oligonucleotides generated a high frequency of targeted genome modifications in primary T cells. Targeted nucleotide replacement was achieved in CXCR4 and PD-1 ( PDCD1), a regulator of T-cell exhaustion that is a validated target for tumor immunotherapy. Deep sequencing of a target site confirmed that Cas9 RNPs generated knock-in genome modifications with up to ~20% efficiency, which accounted for up to approximately one-third of total editing events. These results establish Cas9 RNP technology for diverse experimental and therapeutic genome engineering applications in primary human T cells.« less

  5. Bad splits in bilateral sagittal split osteotomy: systematic review of fracture patterns.

    PubMed

    Steenen, S A; Becking, A G

    2016-07-01

    An unfavourable and unanticipated pattern of the mandibular sagittal split osteotomy is generally referred to as a 'bad split'. Few restorative techniques to manage the situation have been described. In this article, a classification of reported bad split pattern types is proposed and appropriate salvage procedures to manage the different types of undesired fracture are presented. A systematic review was undertaken, yielding a total of 33 studies published between 1971 and 2015. These reported a total of 458 cases of bad splits among 19,527 sagittal ramus osteotomies in 10,271 patients. The total reported incidence of bad split was 2.3% of sagittal splits. The most frequently encountered were buccal plate fractures of the proximal segment (types 1A-F) and lingual fractures of the distal segment (types 2A and 2B). Coronoid fractures (type 3) and condylar neck fractures (type 4) have seldom been reported. The various types of bad split may require different salvage approaches. Copyright © 2016 International Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  6. Effects of frontal and sagittal thorax attitudes in gait on trunk and pelvis three-dimensional kinematics.

    PubMed

    Begon, Mickaël; Leardini, Alberto; Belvedere, Claudio; Farahpour, Nader; Allard, Paul

    2015-10-01

    While sagittal trunk inclinations alter upper body biomechanics, little is known about the extent of frontal trunk bending on upper body and pelvis kinematics in adults during gait and its relation to sagittal trunk inclinations. The objective was to determine the effect of the mean lateral trunk attitude on upper body and pelvis three-dimensional kinematics during gait in asymptomatic subjects. Three gait cycles were collected in 30 subjects using a motion analysis system (Vicon 612) and an established protocol. Sub-groups were formed based on the mean thorax lateral bending angle, bending side, and also sagittal tilt. These were compared based on 38 peak angles identified on pelvis, thorax and shoulder kinematics using MANOVAs. A main effect for bending side (p = 0.038) was found, especially for thorax peak angles. Statistics revealed also a significant interaction (p = 0.04993) between bending side and tilt for the thorax sagittal inclination during body-weight transfer. These results reinforce the existence of different gait patterns, which correlate upper body and pelvis motion measures. The results also suggest that frontal and sagittal trunk attitude should be considered carefully when treating a patient with impaired gait. Copyright © 2015 IPEM. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. Lower extremity energy absorption and biomechanics during landing, part I: sagittal-plane energy absorption analyses.

    PubMed

    Norcross, Marc F; Lewek, Michael D; Padua, Darin A; Shultz, Sandra J; Weinhold, Paul S; Blackburn, J Troy

    2013-01-01

    Eccentric muscle actions of the lower extremity absorb kinetic energy during landing. Greater total sagittal-plane energy absorption (EA) during the initial impact phase (INI) of landing has been associated with landing biomechanics considered high risk for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. We do not know whether groups with different INI EA magnitudes exhibit meaningful differences in ACL-related landing biomechanics and whether INI EA might be useful to identify ACL injury-risk potential. To compare biomechanical factors associated with noncontact ACL injury among sagittal-plane INI EA groups and to determine whether an association exists between sex and sagittal-plane INI EA group assignment to evaluate the face validity of using sagittal-plane INI EA to identify ACL injury risk. Descriptive laboratory study. Research laboratory. A total of 82 (41 men, 41 women; age = 21.0 ± 2.4 years, height = 1.74 ± 0.10 m, mass = 70.3 ± 16.1 kg) healthy, physically active individuals volunteered. We assessed landing biomechanics using an electromagnetic motion-capture system and force plate during a double-legged jump-landing task. Total INI EA was used to group participants into high, moderate, and low tertiles. Sagittal- and frontal-plane knee kinematics; peak vertical and posterior ground reaction forces (GRFs); anterior tibial shear force; and internal hip extension, knee extension, and knee varus moments were identified and compared across groups using 1-way analyses of variance. We used a χ (2) analysis to compare male and female representation in the high and low groups. The high group exhibited greater knee-extension moment and posterior GRFs than both the moderate (P < .05) and low (P < .05) groups and greater anterior tibial shear force than the low group (P < .05). No other group differences were noted. Women were not represented more than men in the high group (χ(2) = 1.20, P = .27). Greater sagittal-plane INI EA likely indicates greater ACL loading

  8. Effect of Cervical Sagittal Balance on Laminoplasty in Patients With Cervical Myelopathy

    PubMed Central

    Namikawa, Takashi; Matsumura, Akira; Konishi, Sadahiko; Nakamura, Hiroaki

    2017-01-01

    Study Design: Retrospective clinical study. Objective: We evaluated the relationship between cervical sagittal alignment parameters and clinical status in patients with cervical myelopathy and analyzed the effect of cervical sagittal balance on cervical laminoplasty. Methods: Patients with cervical myelopathy (n = 110) who underwent laminoplasty were included in this study. The relationship between cervical sagittal alignment parameters and clinical status was evaluated. The changes in radiographic cervical sagittal parameters and clinical status 2 years after surgery were compared between patients with preoperative C2-7 SVA ≥35 mm (group A) and those with preoperative C2-7 SVA <35 mm (group B). Results: Preoperatively, C2-7 SVA had no correlation with defined health-related quality of life evaluation scores. At 2-year follow-up, the improvement in SF-36 physical component summary was significantly lower in group A than in group B. The postoperative change of C2-7 SVA did not significantly differ in 2 groups. Patients in group A maintained cervical regional balance after laminoplasty but experienced extensive postoperative neck pain. Conclusions: Our patients with a C2-7 SVA of ≥35 mm maintained cervical regional balance after laminoplasty and their improvement in myelopathy was equivalent to that in patients with a C2-7 SVA of <35 mm. However, the patents with a C2-7 SVA of ≥35 mm experienced severe postoperative neck pain. C2-7 SVA is a parameter worth considering because it can lead to poor QOL and axial neck pain after laminoplasty. PMID:28507885

  9. The Pingding segment of the Altyn Tagh Fault (91 °E): Holocene slip-rate determination from cosmogenic radionuclide dating of offset fluvial terraces

    DOE PAGES

    Meriaux, A. -S.; Van der Woerd, J.; Tapponnier, P.; ...

    2012-09-25

    Morphochronologic slip-rates on the Altyn Tagh Fault (ATF) along the southern front of the Pingding Shan at ~90.5°E are determined by cosmogenic radionuclide (CRN) dating of seven offset terraces at two sites. The terraces are defined based upon morphology, elevation and dating, together with fieldwork and high-resolution satellite analysis. The majority of the CRN model ages fall within narrow ranges (<2 ka) on the four main terraces (T1, T2, T3 and T3′), and allow a detailed terrace chronology. Bounds on the terrace ages and offsets of 5 independent terraces yield consistent slip-rate estimates. The long-term slip-rate of 13.9 ± 1.1more » mm/yr is defined at the 95% confidence level, as the joint rate probability distribution of the rate derived from each independent terrace. It falls within the bounds of all the rates defined on the central Altyn Tagh Fault between the Cherchen He (86.4°E) and Akato Tagh (~88°E) sites. This rate is ~10 mm/yr less than the upper rate determined near Tura at ~87°E, in keeping with the inference of an eastward decreasing rate due to progressive loss of slip to thrusts branching off the fault southwards but it is greater than the 9 ± 4 mm/yr rate determined at ~90°E by GPS surveys and other geodetic short-term rates defined elsewhere along the ATF. Furthermore, whether such disparate rates will ultimately be reconciled by a better understanding of fault mechanics, resolved transient deformations during the seismic cycle or by more accurate measurements made with either approach remains an important issue.« less

  10. Piezosurgery for Sagittal Split Osteotomy: Procedure Duration and Postoperative Sensory Perturbation.

    PubMed

    Köhnke, Robert; Kolk, Andreas; Kluwe, Lan; Ploder, Oliver

    2017-09-01

    To evaluate piezosurgery for bilateral sagittal split osteotomy (BSSO) for its duration and inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) perturbation. In this prospective randomized study, the authors evaluated 100 BSSO procedures in 50 patients. Piezoelectric (group I) and conventional (group II) osteotomies were carried out on each side of the mandible of a patient by 2 specialists. The surgeons had at least 1 year of experience using piezosurgery. The period from incision to complete splitting of the mandibular bone was recorded (ie, procedure duration). The intraoperative status (visibility and relocation) of the IAN also was recorded. The neurosensory function of the IAN was measured by the 2-point discrimination threshold and static light touch methods before surgery and postoperatively (1, 3, and 6 weeks and 6 and 12 months). Parameters were compared between the test groups by the paired t, nonparametric Wilcoxon, or χ 2 test. Intergroup comparison showed the mean duration of osteotomy was significantly shorter for group I (17 ± 6 vs 25 ± 9 minutes; P < .001). The rate of intraoperative exposures of the IAN was slightly lower for group I (68%) compared with group II (81%). However, the difference was not relevant. Neurosensory disturbance and recovery of the IAN did not differ between groups. Piezoelectric osteotomy requires considerably less time than conventional mechanical approaches, but shows no advantage in preventing neurosensory perturbation. Copyright © 2017 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  11. Fluctuating asymmetry and fractal dimension of the sagittal suture as indicators of inbreeding depression in dama and dorcas gazelles

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Alados, Concepcion L.; Escos, Juan; Emlen, John M.

    1995-01-01

    The effects of inbreeding on the developmental instability of skulls of dorcas (Gazella dorcas) and dama (G. dama) gazelles were investigated. In total, 132 dorcas gazelle skulls and 74 dama gazelle skulls from the Estación Experimental de Zonas Aridas in Almera, Spain, were measured. The fluctuating asymmetry of 9 meristic characters, consisting of the numbers of foramina on the two sides of the skull and mandible, was calculated. Although only the foramen infraorbitalis showed a significant increase in asymmetry with inbreeding in dorcas gazelles, the sum of the foramina in 5 of the skull regions clearly indicates an increase in asymmetry with inbreeding in both dorcas and dama gazelles. The fractal dimension of the sagittal suture was calculated by means of the coastline method. A greater effect of inbreeding on the sagittal suture in dama than in dorcas gazelle was observed, in concordance with the more evident deleterious effects of inbreeding depression in dama than in dorcas gazelles.

  12. Phase sensitive reconstruction of T1-weighted inversion recovery in the evaluation of the cervical cord lesions in multiple Sclerosis; is it similarly eligible in 1.5 T magnet fields?

    PubMed

    Shayganfar, A; Sarrami, A H; Fathi, S; Shaygannejad, V; Shamsian, S

    2018-04-22

    In primary studies with 3 T Magnets, phase sensitive reconstruction of T1-weighted inversion recovery (PSIR) have showed ability to depict the cervical multiple sclerosis (MS) lesions some of which may not be detected by short tau inversion recovery (STIR). Regarding to more availability of 1.5 T MRI, this study was designed to evaluate the eligibility of PSIR in 1.5 T for detection of spinal cord MS lesions. In a study between September 2016 till March 2017 the patients with proven diagnosis of MS enrolled to the study. The standard protocol (sagittal STIR and T2W FSE and axial T2W FSE) as well as sagittal PSIR sequences were performed using a 1.5 T magnet. The images were studied and the lesions were localized and recorded as sharp or faint on each sequence. Of 25 patients (22 females and 3 males, with mean age of 33.5 ± 9.8 years and mean disease duration of 5.4 ± 3.9 years) 69 lesions in STIR, 53 lesions in T2W FSE, 47 lesions in Magnitude reconstruction of PSIR (Magnitude), and 30 lesions in phase sensitive (real) reconstruction PSIR were detected. A Wilcoxon signed-rank test showed STIR has a statistically significant higher detection rate of the plaques rather than other three sequences. (STIR and T2W FSE, Z = -4.000, p < 0.0001, STIR and Magnitude, Z = -4.690, p < 0.0001, STIR and PSIR, Z = -6.245, p = 0.002) Also, STIR had a statistically significant superiority in the boundary definition of the plaques rather than other three sequences. This study shows that in the setting of a 1.5 T magnet field, STIR significantly has a superiority over both of the PSIR reconstructions (i.e. real and magnitude) for the detection as well as the boundary definition of the cervical cord lesions of MS. These results have a good relevance to clinical practice by using MRI scanners and sequences routinely available, however, it is discrepant with other reports performed by 3 T Magnet fields. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights

  13. The influence of heel height on sagittal plane knee kinematics during landing tasks in recreationally active and athletic collegiate females.

    PubMed

    Lindenberg, Kelly M; Carcia, Christopher R; Phelps, Amy L; Martin, Robroy L; Burrows, Anne M

    2011-09-01

    To determine if heel height alters sagittal plane knee kinematics when landing from a forward hop or drop landing. Knee angles close to extension during landing are theorized to increase ACL injury risk in female athletes. Fifty collegiate females performed two single-limb landing tasks while wearing heel lifts of three different sizes (0, 12 & 24 mm) attached to the bottom of a sneaker. Using an electrogoniometer, sagittal plane kinematics (initial contact [KA(IC)], peak flexion [KA(Peak)], and rate of excursion [RE]) were examined. Repeated measures ANOVAs were used to determine the influence of heel height on the dependent measures. Forward hop task- KA(IC) with 0 mm, 12 mm, and 24 mm lifts were 8.88±6.5, 9.38±5.8 and 11.28±7.0, respectively. Significant differences were noted between 0 and 24 mm lift (p<.001) and 12 and 24 mm lifts (p=.003), but not between the 0 and 12 mm conditions (p=.423). KA(Peak) with 0 mm, 12 mm, and 24 mm lifts were 47.08±10.9, 48.18±10.3 and 48.88±9.7, respectively. A significant difference was noted between 0 and 24 mm lift (p=.004), but not between the 0 and 12 mm or 12 and 24 mm conditions (p=.071 and p=.282, respectively). The RE decreased significantly from 2128/sec±52 with the 12 mm lift to 1958/sec±55 with the 24 mm lift (p=.004). RE did not differ from 0 to 12 or 0 to 24 mm lift conditions (p=.351 and p=.086, respectively). Jump-landing task- No significant differences were found in KA(IC) (p=.531), KA(Peak) (p=.741), or the RE (p=.190) between any of the heel lift conditions. The addition of a 24 mm heel lift to the bottom of a sneaker significantly alters sagittal plane knee kinematics upon landing from a unilateral forward hop but not from a drop jump.

  14. Analysis of OFDMA receiver with carrier frequency offset and common carrier frequency offset (CCFO)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gauni, Sabitha; Kumar, R.

    2013-01-01

    The technique of Orthogonal frequency multiplexing (OFDM) is used to mitigate the multipath effects and to achieve better data rate. When these systems are extended to enable multiple access wireless multimedia communications they are more beneficial. The performance of the OFDM systems degrades with frequency offset and phase offset. The OFDM multiple access (OFDMA) technology allots groups of the OFDM subcarriers allocated to different users for transmission. In this paper we study the interference effects of the individual subcarriers with the neighbouring subcarriers which also plays a role in the system degradation is termed as Multiuser Interference (MUI). The effect of Carrier frequency offset (CFO) on these systems is also taken in account. There are conventional CFO compensation methods for OFDMA systems the CFOs are usually compensated by directly eliminating the intercarrier interference (ICI) caused by the residual CFOs for individual users.

  15. Relationship between thoracic hypokyphosis, lumbar lordosis and sagittal pelvic parameters in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

    PubMed

    Clément, Jean-Luc; Geoffray, Anne; Yagoubi, Fatima; Chau, Edouard; Solla, Federico; Oborocianu, Ioana; Rampal, Virginie

    2013-11-01

    Sagittal spine and pelvic alignment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is poorly described in the literature. It generally reports the sagittal alignment with regard to the type of curve and never correlated to the thoracic kyphosis. The objective of this study is to investigate the relationship between thoracic kyphosis, lumbar lordosis and sagittal pelvic parameters in thoracic AIS. Spinal and pelvic sagittal parameters were evaluated on lateral radiographs of 86 patients with thoracic AIS; patients were separated into hypokyphosis group (n = 42) and normokyphosis group (n = 44). Results were statistically analyzed. The lumbar lordosis was lower in the hypokyphosis group, due to the low proximal lordosis. The thoracic kyphosis was not correlated with any pelvic parameters but with the proximal lordosis. The pelvic incidence was correlated with sacral slope, pelvic tilt, lumbar lordosis and highly correlated with distal lumbar lordosis in the two groups. There was a significant linear regression between thoracic kyphosis and proximal lordosis and between pelvic incidence and distal lordosis. We can consider that the proximal part of the lordosis depends on the thoracic kyphosis and the distal part depends on the pelvic incidence. The hypokyphosis in AIS is independent of the pelvic parameters and could be described as a structural parameter, characteristic of the scoliotic deformity.

  16. Extensor Tendon Instability Due to Sagittal Band Injury in a Martial Arts Athlete: A Case Report.

    PubMed

    Kochevar, Andrew; Rayan, Ghazi

    2017-03-01

    A Taekwondo participant sustained a hand injury from punching an opponent that resulted in painful instability of the ring finger extensor digitorum communis tendon due to sagittal band damage. His symptoms resolved after reconstructive surgery on the sagittal band (SB) with stabilization of the extensor tendon over the metacarpophalangeal joint.

  17. Effectiveness of a Rapid Lumbar Spine MRI Protocol Using 3D T2-Weighted SPACE Imaging Versus a Standard Protocol for Evaluation of Degenerative Changes of the Lumbar Spine.

    PubMed

    Sayah, Anousheh; Jay, Ann K; Toaff, Jacob S; Makariou, Erini V; Berkowitz, Frank

    2016-09-01

    Reducing lumbar spine MRI scanning time while retaining diagnostic accuracy can benefit patients and reduce health care costs. This study compares the effectiveness of a rapid lumbar MRI protocol using 3D T2-weighted sampling perfection with application-optimized contrast with different flip-angle evolutions (SPACE) sequences with a standard MRI protocol for evaluation of lumbar spondylosis. Two hundred fifty consecutive unenhanced lumbar MRI examinations performed at 1.5 T were retrospectively reviewed. Full, rapid, and complete versions of each examination were interpreted for spondylotic changes at each lumbar level, including herniations and neural compromise. The full examination consisted of sagittal T1-weighted, T2-weighted turbo spin-echo (TSE), and STIR sequences; and axial T1- and T2-weighted TSE sequences (time, 18 minutes 40 seconds). The rapid examination consisted of sagittal T1- and T2-weighted SPACE sequences, with axial SPACE reformations (time, 8 minutes 46 seconds). The complete examination consisted of the full examination plus the T2-weighted SPACE sequence. Sensitivities and specificities of the full and rapid examinations were calculated using the complete study as the reference standard. The rapid and full studies had sensitivities of 76.0% and 69.3%, with specificities of 97.2% and 97.9%, respectively, for all degenerative processes. Rapid and full sensitivities were 68.7% and 66.3% for disk herniation, 85.2% and 81.5% for canal compromise, 82.9% and 69.1% for lateral recess compromise, and 76.9% and 69.7% for foraminal compromise, respectively. Isotropic SPACE T2-weighted imaging provides high-quality imaging of lumbar spondylosis, with multiplanar reformatting capability. Our SPACE-based rapid protocol had sensitivities and specificities for herniations and neural compromise comparable to those of the protocol without SPACE. This protocol fits within a 15-minute slot, potentially reducing costs and discomfort for a large subgroup of

  18. 31 CFR 285.7 - Salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... Secretary, has waived certain requirements of the Computer Matching and Privacy Protection Act of 1988, 5 U... process known as centralized salary offset computer matching, identify Federal employees who owe delinquent nontax debt to the United States. Centralized salary offset computer matching is the computerized...

  19. Compensatory modulation for severe global sagittal imbalance: significance of cervical compensation on quality of life in thoracolumbar kyphosis secondary to ankylosing spondylitis.

    PubMed

    Qian, Jin; Qiu, Yong; Qian, Bang-Ping; Zhu, Ze-Zhang; Wang, Bin; Yu, Yang

    2016-11-01

    To investigate the cervical compensation pattern and to clarify relationships between cervical compensation and quality of life (QOL) in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients with thoracolumbar kyphosis. A cross-sectional study of consecutive AS patients with thoracolumbar kyphosis was performed. Forty-four patients with hyperlordotic cervical spine were assigned to group A and sixteen with kyphotic cervical spine in group B. Sagittal parameters were measured and compared, including T1 slope, cervical lordosis (CL), cervical sagittal vertical axis (C-SVA), global SVA and global kyphosis (GK). Independent factors for cervical compensation were identified. To exclude confounding variables while comparing QOL between patients with hyperlordotic and kyphotic cervical spine, 31 patients were selected as group A-1, similar to 13 patients in group B-1 in the distribution of matching variables such as age, gender, course of disease, GK, global SVA and radiographic progression assessment for AS. The QOL was assessed by Neck Disability Index (NDI) and other indices. Mean C-SVA was significantly lower in group A than in group B, whereas mean T1 slope, global SVA and GK were significantly larger in group A. T1 slope (36.0 %) was the independent factor for CL. T1 slope was correlated with CL, GK and global SVA in group A. Group A-1 showed lower NDI score. CL (59.6 %) independently affects NDI. Notable cervical compensation exists in AS patients with thoracolumbar kyphosis. The cervical compensation responsive to global imbalance was mediated by T1 slope. AS patients with hyperlordotic cervical spine present with better QOL than patients with kyphotic cervical spine.

  20. Carbon Offsets and Renewable Energy Certificates | Climate Neutral Research

    Science.gov Websites

    Campuses | NREL Carbon Offsets and Renewable Energy Certificates Carbon Offsets and Renewable Energy Certificates Carbon offsets are typically less expensive than installing hardware or undertaking climate reduction targets. While research campuses should not rely on carbon offsets long term, they can

  1. 5 CFR 831.1005 - Offset from nondisability annuity.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 5 Administrative Personnel 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Offset from nondisability annuity. 831.1005 Section 831.1005 Administrative Personnel OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED) CIVIL SERVICE REGULATIONS (CONTINUED) RETIREMENT CSRS Offset § 831.1005 Offset from nondisability annuity. (a) OPM will...

  2. 5 CFR 831.1005 - Offset from nondisability annuity.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... 5 Administrative Personnel 2 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Offset from nondisability annuity. 831.1005 Section 831.1005 Administrative Personnel OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED) CIVIL SERVICE REGULATIONS (CONTINUED) RETIREMENT CSRS Offset § 831.1005 Offset from nondisability annuity. (a) OPM will...

  3. Spatially offset AGN candidates in the CLASS survey

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Skipper, Chris J.; Browne, Ian W. A.

    2018-04-01

    Prompted by a recent claim by Barrows et al. that X-ray active galactic nuclei (AGNs) are often found significantly offset from the centres of their host galaxies, we have looked for examples of compact radio sources that are offset from the optical centroids of nearby (z < 0.2) galaxies. We have selected a sample of 345 galaxies from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) galaxy catalogue, which have nearby compact radio sources listed in the Cosmic-Lens All Sky Survey (CLASS) catalogue. We find only three matches (˜0.87 per cent of the sample) with offsets greater than 600 milliarcsec (mas), which is considerably fewer than we would have expected from the Barrows et al. X-ray survey. We fit our histogram of offsets with a Rayleigh distribution with σ = 60.5 mas, but find that there is an excess of objects with separations greater than ˜150 mas. Assuming that this excess represents AGNs with real offsets, we place an upper limit of ˜17 per cent on the fraction of offset AGNs in our radio-selected sample. We select 38 objects with offsets greater than 150 mas, and find they have some diverse properties: Some are well known, such as Mrk 273 and Arp 220, some have dust lanes, which may have affected the optical astrometry, and a few are strong new candidates for offset AGNs.

  4. The effect of sagittal rotation of the glenoid on axial glenoid width and glenoid version in computed tomography scan imaging.

    PubMed

    Gross, Daniel J; Golijanin, Petar; Dumont, Guillaume D; Parada, Stephen A; Vopat, Bryan G; Reinert, Steven E; Romeo, Anthony A; Provencher, C D R Matthew T

    2016-01-01

    Computed tomography (CT) scans of the shoulder are often not well aligned to the axis of the scapula and glenoid. The purpose of this paper was to determine the effect of sagittal rotation of the glenoid on axial measurements of anterior-posterior (AP) glenoid width and glenoid version attained by standard CT scan. In addition, we sought to define the angle of rotation required to correct the CT scan to optimal positioning. A total of 30 CT scans of the shoulder were reformatted using OsiriX software multiplanar reconstruction. The uncorrected (UNCORR) and corrected (CORR) CT scans were compared for measurements of both (1) axial AP glenoid width and (2) glenoid version at 5 standardized axial cuts. The mean difference in glenoid version was 2.6% (2° ± 0.1°; P = .0222) and the mean difference in AP glenoid width was 5.2% (1.2 ± 0.42 mm; P = .0026) in comparing the CORR and UNCORR scans. The mean angle of correction required to align the sagittal plane was 20.1° of rotation (range, 9°-39°; standard error of mean, 1.2°). These findings demonstrate that UNCORR CT scans of the glenohumeral joint do not correct for the sagittal rotation of the glenoid, and this affects the characteristics of the axial images. Failure to align the sagittal image to the 12-o'clock to 6-o'clock axis results in measurement error in both glenoid version and AP glenoid width. Use of UNCORR CT images may have notable implications for decision-making and surgical treatment. Copyright © 2016 Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery Board of Trustees. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  5. Patients with proximal junctional kyphosis requiring revision surgery have higher postoperative lumbar lordosis and larger sagittal balance corrections.

    PubMed

    Kim, Han Jo; Bridwell, Keith H; Lenke, Lawrence G; Park, Moon Soo; Song, Kwang Sup; Piyaskulkaew, Chaiwat; Chuntarapas, Tapanut

    2014-04-20

    Case control study. To evaluate risk factors in patients in 3 groups: those without proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) (N), with PJK but not requiring revision (P), and then those with PJK requiring revision surgery (S). It is becoming clear that some patients maintain stable PJK angles, whereas others progress and develop severe PJK necessitating revision surgery. A total of 206 patients at a single institution from 2002 to 2007 with adult scoliosis with 2-year minimum follow-up (average 3.5 yr) were analyzed. Inclusion criteria were age more than 18 years and primary fusions greater than 5 levels from any thoracic upper instrumented vertebra to any lower instrumented vertebrae. Revisions were excluded. Radiographical assessment included Cobb measurements in the coronal/sagittal plane and measurements of the PJK angle at postoperative time points: 1 to 2 months, 2 years, and final follow-up. PJK was defined as an angle greater than 10°. The prevalence of PJK was 34%. The average age in N was 49.9 vs. 51.3 years in P and 60.1 years in S. Sex, body mass index, and smoking status were not significantly different between groups. Fusions extending to the pelvis were 74%, 85%, and 91% of the cases in groups N, P, and S. Instrumentation type was significantly different between groups N and S, with a higher number of upper instrumented vertebra hooks in group N. Radiographical parameters demonstrated a higher postoperative lumbar lordosis and a larger sagittal balance change, with surgery in those with PJK requiring revision surgery. Scoliosis Research Society postoperative pain scores were inferior in group N vs. P and S, and Oswestry Disability Index scores were similar between all groups. Patients with PJK requiring revision were older, had higher postoperative lumbar lordosis, and larger sagittal balance corrections than patients without PJK. Based on these data, it seems as though older patients with large corrections in their lumbar lordosis and sagittal balance

  6. Changing Sagittal-Plane Landing Styles to Modulate Impact and Tibiofemoral Force Magnitude and Directions Relative to the Tibia

    PubMed Central

    Shimokochi, Yohei; Ambegaonkar, Jatin P.; Meyer, Eric G.

    2016-01-01

    Context: Ground reaction force (GRF) and tibiofemoral force magnitudes and directions have been shown to affect anterior cruciate ligament loading during landing. However, the kinematic and kinetic factors modifying these 2 forces during landing are unknown. Objective: To clarify the intersegmental kinematic and kinetic links underlying the alteration of the GRF and tibiofemoral force vectors secondary to changes in the sagittal-plane body position during single-legged landing. Design: Crossover study. Setting: Laboratory. Patients or Other Participants: Twenty recreationally active participants (age = 23.4 ± 3.6 years, height = 171.0 ± 9.4 cm, mass = 73.3 ± 12.7 kg). Intervention(s): Participants performed single-legged landings using 3 landing styles: self-selected landing (SSL), body leaning forward and landing on the toes (LFL), and body upright with flat-footed landing (URL). Three-dimensional kinetics and kinematics were recorded. Main Outcome Measure(s): Sagittal-plane tibial inclination and knee-flexion angles, GRF magnitude and inclination angles relative to the tibia, and proximal tibial forces at peak tibial axial forces. Results: The URL resulted in less time to peak tibial axial forces, smaller knee-flexion angles, and greater magnitude and a more anteriorly inclined GRF vector relative to the tibia than did the SSL. These changes led to the greatest peak tibial axial and anterior shear forces in the URL among the 3 landing styles. Conversely, the LFL resulted in longer time to peak tibial axial forces, greater knee-flexion angles, and reduced magnitude and a more posteriorly inclined GRF vector relative to the tibia than the SSL. These changes in LFL resulted in the lowest peak tibial axial and largest posterior shear forces among the 3 landing styles. Conclusions: Sagittal-plane intersegmental kinematic and kinetic links strongly affected the magnitude and direction of GRF and tibiofemoral forces during the impact phase of single-legged landing

  7. OFFSET - RAY TRACING OPTICAL ANALYSIS OF OFFSET SOLAR COLLECTOR FOR SPACE STATION SOLAR DYNAMIC POWER SYSTEM

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Jefferies, K.

    1994-01-01

    OFFSET is a ray tracing computer code for optical analysis of a solar collector. The code models the flux distributions within the receiver cavity produced by reflections from the solar collector. It was developed to model the offset solar collector of the solar dynamic electric power system being developed for Space Station Freedom. OFFSET has been used to improve the understanding of the collector-receiver interface and to guide the efforts of NASA contractors also researching the optical components of the power system. The collector for Space Station Freedom consists of 19 hexagonal panels each containing 24 triangular, reflective facets. Current research is geared toward optimizing flux distribution inside the receiver via changes in collector design and receiver orientation. OFFSET offers many options for experimenting with the design of the system. The offset parabolic collector model configuration is determined by an input file of facet corner coordinates. The user may choose other configurations by changing this file, but to simulate collectors that have other than 19 groups of 24 triangular facets would require modification of the FORTRAN code. Each of the roughly 500 facets in the assembled collector may be independently aimed to smooth out, or tailor, the flux distribution on the receiver's wall. OFFSET simulates the effects of design changes such as in receiver aperture location, tilt angle, and collector facet contour. Unique features of OFFSET include: 1) equations developed to pseudo-randomly select ray originating sources on the Sun which appear evenly distributed and include solar limb darkening; 2) Cone-optics technique used to add surface specular error to the ray originating sources to determine the apparent ray sources of the reflected sun; 3) choice of facet reflective surface contour -- spherical, ideal parabolic, or toroidal; 4) Gaussian distributions of radial and tangential components of surface slope error added to the surface normals at

  8. 22 CFR 1007.8 - Procedures for salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 22 Foreign Relations 2 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 true Procedures for salary offset. 1007.8 Section 1007.8 Foreign Relations INTER-AMERICAN FOUNDATION SALARY OFFSET § 1007.8 Procedures for salary offset... final salary or leave payments in accordance with 31 U.S.C. 3716. ...

  9. Alphabet Soup: Sagittal Balance Correction Osteotomies of the Spine-What Radiologists Should Know.

    PubMed

    Takahashi, T; Kainth, D; Marette, S; Polly, D

    2018-04-01

    Global sagittal malalignment has been demonstrated to have correlation with clinical symptoms and is a key component to be restored in adult spinal deformity. In this article, various types of sagittal balance-correction osteotomies are reviewed primarily on the basis of the 3 most commonly used procedures: Smith-Petersen osteotomy, pedicle subtraction osteotomy, and vertebral column resection. Familiarity with the expected imaging appearance and commonly encountered complications seen on postoperative imaging studies following correction osteotomies is crucial for accurate image interpretation. © 2018 by American Journal of Neuroradiology.

  10. Coseismic slip distributions of the 26 December 2004 Sumatra-Andaman and 28 March 2005 Nias earthquakes from GPS static offsets

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Banerjee, P.; Pollitz, F.; Nagarajan, B.; Burgmann, R.

    2007-01-01

    Static offsets produced by the 26 December 2004 M ???9 Sumatra-Andaman earthquake as measured by Global Positioning System (GPS) reveal a large amount of slip along the entire ???1300 km-long rupture. Most seismic slip inversions place little slip on the Andaman segment. whereas both near-field and far-field GPS offsets demand large slip on the Andaman segment. We compile available datasets of the static offset to render a more detailed picture of the static-slip distribution. We construct geodetic offsets such that postearthquake positions of continuous GPS sites are reckoned to a time 1 day after the earthquake and campaign GPS sites are similarly corrected for postseismic motions. The newly revised slip distribution (Mw 9.22) reveals substantial segmentation of slip along the Andaman Islands, with the southern quarter slipping ???15 m in unison with the adjacent Nicobar and northern Sumatran segments of length ???700 km. We infer a small excess of geodetic moment relative to the seismic moment. A similar compilation of GPS offsets from the 28 March 2005 Nias earthquake is well explained with dip slip averaging several meters (Mw = 8.66) distributed primarily at depths greater than 20 km.

  11. 31 CFR 285.7 - Salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... requirements of the Computer Matching and Privacy Protection Act of 1988, 5 U.S.C. 552a, as amended, for... known as centralized salary offset computer matching, identify Federal employees who owe delinquent nontax debt to the United States. Centralized salary offset computer matching is the computerized...

  12. 31 CFR 285.7 - Salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... requirements of the Computer Matching and Privacy Protection Act of 1988, 5 U.S.C. 552a, as amended, for... known as centralized salary offset computer matching, identify Federal employees who owe delinquent nontax debt to the United States. Centralized salary offset computer matching is the computerized...

  13. 31 CFR 285.7 - Salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... requirements of the Computer Matching and Privacy Protection Act of 1988, 5 U.S.C. 552a, as amended, for... known as centralized salary offset computer matching, identify Federal employees who owe delinquent nontax debt to the United States. Centralized salary offset computer matching is the computerized...

  14. 31 CFR 285.7 - Salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... requirements of the Computer Matching and Privacy Protection Act of 1988, 5 U.S.C. 552a, as amended, for... known as centralized salary offset computer matching, identify Federal employees who owe delinquent nontax debt to the United States. Centralized salary offset computer matching is the computerized...

  15. Gender difference of ankle stability in the sagittal and frontal planes.

    PubMed

    Hanzlick, Harrison; Hyunglae Lee

    2017-07-01

    This paper offers quantification of ankle stability in relation to simulated haptic environments of varying stiffness. This study analyzes the stability trends of male and female subjects independently over a wide range of simulated environments after subjects were exposed to vigorous position perturbation. Ankle stability was quantified for both degrees-of-freedom of the ankle in the sagittal and frontal planes. Subjects' stability consistently decreased when exposed to environments of negative simulated stiffness. In the frontal plane, male and female subjects exhibited nearly identical stability levels. In the sagittal plane, however, male subjects demonstrated marginally more stability than female subjects in environments with negative stiffness. Results of this study are beneficial to understanding situations in which the ankle is likely to lose stability, potentially resulting in injury.

  16. Offset fémoral et le fonctionnement de la hanche dans la prothèse totale de la hanche

    PubMed Central

    Rachid, Abdelillah; Moncef, Erraji; Najib, Abbassi; Abdeljaouad, Najib; Abdelkarim, Daudi; Hicham, Yacoubi

    2014-01-01

    L'offset fémoral est l’élément pronostic le plus important dans l'arthroplastie de la hanche. Sa restauration est devenue de plus en plus une obligation. Toute modification de la valeur native de l'offset retenti sur la qualité du fonctionnement clinique de la hanche. Le but de notre travail était d’évaluer le fonctionnement clinique de la hanche en fonction de la valeur de l'offset fémoral après une arthroplastie. C'est une étude rétrospective effectuée entre 2010 et 2013, comportant 27 patients ayant bénéficiés d'une arthroplastie totale de la hanche. Les patients ayant eu un geste chirurgicale antérieur sur la même hanche ou sur la hanche controlatérale ont été exclus. Les mesures ont été effectuées sur des radiographies standards de la hanche en rotation interne d'environ 15°, avec un agrandissement à 100%. Les résultats cliniques étaient évalués au moyen du score de WOMAC qui était en moyenne de 15,2 points, et le score de Merle d'Aubigné-Postel avec une moyenne de 15 points. Deux autres tests ont été évalués dans notre étude qui sont le step et le hop test. Les meilleurs résultats fonctionnels ont été obtenus chez les patients ayant eu une latéralisation de la tige fémoral avec un offset augmenté. PMID:25400835

  17. Sagittal and vertical load-deflection and permanent deformation of transpalatal arches connected with palatal implants: an in-vitro study.

    PubMed

    Crismani, Adriano G; Celar, Ales G; Burstone, Charles J; Bernhart, Thomas G; Bantleon, Hans-Peter; Mittlboeck, Martina

    2007-06-01

    The purposes of this laboratory investigation were to (1) measure the sagittal and vertical deflection of loaded transpalatal arches (TPAs) connected to a palatal implant, (2) measure the extent of permanent deformation of the connecting TPA in the sagittal and vertical directions, (3) test various wire dimensions in terms of deflection behavior, and (4) evaluate soldering vs laser welding vs adhesive bonding of TPAs in terms of load deflection behavior. Stainless steel wires of 6 dimensions were tested: 0.8 x 0.8, 0.9, 1, 1.1, 1.2, and 1.2 x 1.2 mm. For each dimension, 10 specimens were soldered to the palatal implant abutment, 10 were laser welded, and 10 were adhesively bonded to the implant abutment (total, 180 specimens). The measuring device applied increments of force of 50 cN, from 0 to 500 cN. Then the specimens were unloaded. The values were statistically described and analyzed with ANOVA and Wilcoxon rank sum tests. Absolute orthodontic anchorage without deformation of TPAs was not observed with the wire dimensions tested. To prevent loss of anchorage greater than 370 mum (sagittal deflection of 1.2 x 1.2 mm adhesively bonded TPA at 500 cN force level), wires thicker than 1.2 x 1.2 mm or cast anchorage elements must be considered for clinical practice. However, larger cross sections might cause more patient discomfort, and laboratory procedures increase costs.

  18. Effect of tool offsetting on microstructure and mechanical properties dissimilar friction stir welded Mg-Al alloys

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Baghdadi, Amir Hossein; Fazilah Mohamad Selamat, Nor; Sajuri, Zainuddin

    2017-09-01

    Automotive and aerospace industries are attempting to produce lightweight structure by using materials with low density such as aluminum and magnesium alloys to increase the fuel efficiency and consequently reduce the environmental pollution. It can be beneficial to join Mg to Al to acquire ideal performance in special applications. Friction stir welding (FSW) is solid state welding processes and relatively lower temperature of the process compared to fusion welding processes. This makes FSW a potential joining technique for joining of the dissimilar materials. In this study, Mg-Al butt joints were performed by FSW under different tool offset conditions, rotation rates (500-600 rpm) and traverse speeds (20 mm/min) with tool axis offset 1 mm shifted into AZ31B or Al6061 (T6), and without offset. During the welding process AZ31B was positioned at the advancing side (AS) and Al6061 (T6) was located at the retreating side (RS). Defect free AZ31B-Al6061 (T6) dissimilar metal FSW joints with good mechanical properties were obtained with the combination of intermediate rotation rate and low traverse speed pin is in the middle. When tool positioned in -1 mm or +1 mm offsetting, some defects were found in SZ of dissimilar FSWed joints such as cavity, tunnel, and crack. Furthermore, a thin layer of intermetallic compounds was observed in the stir zone at the interface between Mg-Al plates. The strength of the joint was influenced by FSW parameters. Good mechanical properties obtained with the combination of intermediate rotational speed of 600 rpm and low travelling speed of 20 mm/min by locating Mg on advancing side when pin is in the middle. Also, Joint efficiency of the welds prepared in the present study was between 29% and 68% for the different welding parameters.

  19. 17 CFR 141.8 - Procedures for salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 17 Commodity and Securities Exchanges 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Procedures for salary offset. 141.8 Section 141.8 Commodity and Securities Exchanges COMMODITY FUTURES TRADING COMMISSION SALARY OFFSET § 141.8 Procedures for salary offset. (a) Deductions to liquidate an employee's debt will be by...

  20. 38 CFR 1.992 - Procedures for salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 38 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Procedures for salary offset. 1.992 Section 1.992 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS GENERAL PROVISIONS Salary Offset Provisions § 1.992 Procedures for salary offset. (a) Types of collection...

  1. 22 CFR 34.16 - Procedures for salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 22 Foreign Relations 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Procedures for salary offset. 34.16 Section 34.16 Foreign Relations DEPARTMENT OF STATE CLAIMS AND STOLEN PROPERTY DEBT COLLECTION Salary Offset § 34.16 Procedures for salary offset. Unless otherwise provided by statute or contract, the following...

  2. 19 CFR 201.206 - Administrative offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 19 Customs Duties 3 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Administrative offset. 201.206 Section 201.206 Customs Duties UNITED STATES INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION GENERAL RULES OF GENERAL APPLICATION Debt Collection § 201.206 Administrative offset. (a) Collection. The Director may collect a claim pursuant to 31 U...

  3. 19 CFR 201.206 - Administrative offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-04-01

    ... 19 Customs Duties 3 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Administrative offset. 201.206 Section 201.206 Customs Duties UNITED STATES INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION GENERAL RULES OF GENERAL APPLICATION Debt Collection § 201.206 Administrative offset. (a) Collection. The Director may collect a claim pursuant to 31 U...

  4. 19 CFR 201.206 - Administrative offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... 19 Customs Duties 3 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Administrative offset. 201.206 Section 201.206 Customs Duties UNITED STATES INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION GENERAL RULES OF GENERAL APPLICATION Debt Collection § 201.206 Administrative offset. (a) Collection. The Director may collect a claim pursuant to 31 U...

  5. 19 CFR 201.206 - Administrative offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... 19 Customs Duties 3 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Administrative offset. 201.206 Section 201.206 Customs Duties UNITED STATES INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION GENERAL RULES OF GENERAL APPLICATION Debt Collection § 201.206 Administrative offset. (a) Collection. The Director may collect a claim pursuant to 31 U...

  6. 19 CFR 201.206 - Administrative offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... 19 Customs Duties 3 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Administrative offset. 201.206 Section 201.206 Customs Duties UNITED STATES INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION GENERAL RULES OF GENERAL APPLICATION Debt Collection § 201.206 Administrative offset. (a) Collection. The Director may collect a claim pursuant to 31 U...

  7. 5 CFR 837.303 - Annuity offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 5 Administrative Personnel 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Annuity offset. 837.303 Section 837.303...) REEMPLOYMENT OF ANNUITANTS Coverage and Contributions § 837.303 Annuity offset. (a) Applicability. When the right to receive annuity continues during reemployment (even though actual receipt of annuity may have...

  8. Lower Extremity Energy Absorption and Biomechanics During Landing, Part I: Sagittal-Plane Energy Absorption Analyses

    PubMed Central

    Norcross, Marc F.; Lewek, Michael D.; Padua, Darin A.; Shultz, Sandra J.; Weinhold, Paul S.; Blackburn, J. Troy

    2013-01-01

    Context: Eccentric muscle actions of the lower extremity absorb kinetic energy during landing. Greater total sagittal-plane energy absorption (EA) during the initial impact phase (INI) of landing has been associated with landing biomechanics considered high risk for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. We do not know whether groups with different INI EA magnitudes exhibit meaningful differences in ACL-related landing biomechanics and whether INI EA might be useful to identify ACL injury-risk potential. Objective: To compare biomechanical factors associated with noncontact ACL injury among sagittal-plane INI EA groups and to determine whether an association exists between sex and sagittal-plane INI EA group assignment to evaluate the face validity of using sagittal-plane INI EA to identify ACL injury risk. Design: Descriptive laboratory study. Setting: Research laboratory. Patients or Other Participants: A total of 82 (41 men, 41 women; age = 21.0 ± 2.4 years, height = 1.74 ± 0.10 m, mass = 70.3 ± 16.1 kg) healthy, physically active individuals volunteered. Intervention(s): We assessed landing biomechanics using an electromagnetic motion-capture system and force plate during a double-legged jump-landing task. Main Outcome Measure(s): Total INI EA was used to group participants into high, moderate, and low tertiles. Sagittal- and frontal-plane knee kinematics; peak vertical and posterior ground reaction forces (GRFs); anterior tibial shear force; and internal hip extension, knee extension, and knee varus moments were identified and compared across groups using 1-way analyses of variance. We used a χ2 analysis to compare male and female representation in the high and low groups. Results: The high group exhibited greater knee-extension moment and posterior GRFs than both the moderate (P < .05) and low (P < .05) groups and greater anterior tibial shear force than the low group (P < .05). No other group differences were noted. Women were not represented more than

  9. 5 CFR 1215.8 - Procedures for salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 5 Administrative Personnel 3 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Procedures for salary offset. 1215.8... MANAGEMENT Salary Offset § 1215.8 Procedures for salary offset. (a) Deductions to liquidate an employee's... payment due to a separated employee including but not limited to final salary payment or leave in...

  10. 32 CFR 1697.8 - Procedures for salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 32 National Defense 6 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Procedures for salary offset. 1697.8 Section 1697.8 National Defense Other Regulations Relating to National Defense SELECTIVE SERVICE SYSTEM SALARY OFFSET § 1697.8 Procedures for salary offset. (a) Deductions to liquidate an employee's debt will be by...

  11. 5 CFR 179.212 - Procedures for salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 5 Administrative Personnel 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Procedures for salary offset. 179.212... COLLECTION STANDARDS Salary Offset § 179.212 Procedures for salary offset. (a) The Director or his or her designee shall coordinate salary deductions under this subpart. (b) OPM payroll office shall determine the...

  12. 16 CFR 1027.8 - Procedures for salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 16 Commercial Practices 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Procedures for salary offset. 1027.8 Section 1027.8 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION GENERAL SALARY OFFSET § 1027.8 Procedures for salary offset. (a) Deductions to liquidate an employee's debt will be by the method and in the...

  13. 45 CFR 607.8 - Procedures for salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 3 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Procedures for salary offset. 607.8 Section 607.8 Public Welfare Regulations Relating to Public Welfare (Continued) NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION SALARY OFFSET § 607.8 Procedures for salary offset. (a) Deductions to liquidate an employee's debt will be by...

  14. 45 CFR 607.8 - Procedures for salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 3 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Procedures for salary offset. 607.8 Section 607.8 Public Welfare Regulations Relating to Public Welfare (Continued) NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION SALARY OFFSET § 607.8 Procedures for salary offset. (a) Deductions to liquidate an employee's debt will be by...

  15. 45 CFR 607.8 - Procedures for salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 3 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Procedures for salary offset. 607.8 Section 607.8 Public Welfare Regulations Relating to Public Welfare (Continued) NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION SALARY OFFSET § 607.8 Procedures for salary offset. (a) Deductions to liquidate an employee's debt will be by...

  16. 45 CFR 607.8 - Procedures for salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 3 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Procedures for salary offset. 607.8 Section 607.8 Public Welfare Regulations Relating to Public Welfare (Continued) NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION SALARY OFFSET § 607.8 Procedures for salary offset. (a) Deductions to liquidate an employee's debt will be by...

  17. 47 CFR 1.1951 - Offset against tax refunds.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Offset against tax refunds. 1.1951 Section 1... Claims Owed the United States Cooperation with the Internal Revenue Service § 1.1951 Offset against tax refunds. The Commission will take action to effect administrative offset against tax refunds due to...

  18. Video raster stereography back shape reconstruction: a reliability study for sagittal, frontal, and transversal plane parameters.

    PubMed

    Schroeder, J; Reer, R; Braumann, K M

    2015-02-01

    As reliability of raster stereography was proved only for sagittal plane parameters with repeated measures on the same day, the present study was aiming at investigating variability and reliability of back shape reconstruction for all dimensions (sagittal, frontal, transversal) and for different intervals. For a sample of 20 healthy volunteers, intra-individual variability (SEM and CV%) and reliability (ICC ± 95% CI) were proved for sagittal (thoracic kyphosis, lumbar lordosis, pelvis tilt angle, and trunk inclination), frontal (pelvis torsion, pelvis and trunk imbalance, vertebral side deviation, and scoliosis angle), transversal (vertebral rotation), and functional (hyperextension) spine shape reconstruction parameters for different test-retest intervals (on the same day, between-day, between-week) by means of video raster stereography. Reliability was high for the sagittal plane (pelvis tilt, kyphosis and lordosis angle, and trunk inclination: ICC > 0.90), and good to high for lumbar mobility (0.86 < ICC < 0.97). Apart from sagittal plane spinal alignment, there was a lack of certainty for a high reproducibility indicated by wider ICC confidence intervals. So, reliability was fair to high for vertebral side deviation and the scoliosis angle (0.71 < ICC < 0.95), and poor to good for vertebral rotation values as well as for frontal plane upper body and pelvis position parameters (0.65 < ICC < 0.92). Coefficients for the between-day and between-week interval were a little lower than for repeated measures on the same day. Variability (SEM) was less than 1.5° or 1.5 mm, except for trunk inclination. Relative variability (CV) was greater in global trunk position and pelvis parameters (35-98%) than in scoliosis (14-20%) or sagittal sway parameters (4-8 %). Although we found a lower reproducibility for the frontal plane, raster stereography is considered to be a reliable method for the non-invasive, three-dimensional assessment of spinal alignment in normal non

  19. An inducible caspase 9 safety switch for T-cell therapy

    PubMed Central

    Straathof, Karin C.; Pulè, Martin A.; Yotnda, Patricia; Dotti, Gianpietro; Vanin, Elio F.; Brenner, Malcolm K.; Heslop, Helen E.; Spencer, David M.; Rooney, Cliona M.

    2005-01-01

    The efficacy of adoptive T-cell therapy as treatment for malignancies may be enhanced by genetic modification of infused cells. However, oncogenic events due to vector/transgene integration, and toxicities due to the infused cells themselves, have tempered enthusiasm. A safe and efficient means of removing aberrant cells in vivo would ameliorate these concerns. We describe a “safety switch” that can be stably and efficiently expressed in human T cells without impairing phenotype, function, or antigen specificity. This reagent is based on a modified human caspase 9 fused to a human FK506 binding protein (FKBP) to allow conditional dimerization using a small molecule pharmaceutical. A single 10-nM dose of synthetic dimerizer drug induces apoptosis in 99% of transduced cells selected for high transgene expression in vitro and in vivo. This system has several advantages over currently available suicide genes. First, it consists of human gene products with low potential immunogenicity. Second, administration of dimerizer drug has no effects other than the selective elimination of transduced T cells. Third, inducible caspase 9 maintains function in T cells overexpressing antiapoptotic molecules. These characteristics favor incorporation of inducible caspase 9 as a safety feature in human T-cell therapies. PMID:15728125

  20. 45 CFR 33.10 - Procedures for salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Procedures for salary offset. 33.10 Section 33.10 Public Welfare DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL ADMINISTRATION SALARY OFFSET § 33.10 Procedures for salary offset. (a) Method and source of deductions. Unless the employee and the Secretary have...

  1. 34 CFR 32.5 - Pre-offset hearing-general.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 34 Education 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Pre-offset hearing-general. 32.5 Section 32.5 Education Office of the Secretary, Department of Education SALARY OFFSET TO RECOVER OVERPAYMENTS OF PAY OR ALLOWANCES FROM DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION EMPLOYEES § 32.5 Pre-offset hearing—general. (a) An employee who...

  2. Sagittal balance, a useful tool for neurosurgeons?

    PubMed

    Villard, Jimmy; Ringel, Florian; Meyer, Bernhard

    2014-01-01

    New instrumentation techniques have made any correction of the spinal architecture possible. Sagittal balance has been described as an important parameter for assessing spinal deformity in the early 1970s, but over the last decade its importance has grown with the published results in terms of overall quality of life and fusion rate. Up until now, most of the studies have concentrated on spinal deformity surgery, but its use in the daily neurosurgery practice remains uncertain and may warrant further studies.

  3. [Correlation analysis between position of head, cervical curvature classification and balance of cervical spine through lateral plain radiograph measurement].

    PubMed

    Wang, Kuan; Deng, Zhen; Wang, Hui-Hao; Li, Zheng-Yan; Niu, Wen-Xin; Chen, Bo; Zhang, Ming-Cai; Yuan, Wei-An; Zhan, Hong-Sheng

    2017-05-25

    To analyze the relationship between position of head, cervical curvature type and associated cervical balance parameters in a neutral looking-forward posture. Cervical lateral X-rays of 60 patients with cervical spondylosis were selected from January to December 2015. There were 22 males and 38 females with an average age of (35.5±10.9) years old. The measured parameters included cervical curvature type, McGregor slope, C2 lower end plate slope, T1 slope, center of gravity to C7 sagittal vertical offset (CG-C7 SVA), and C2 to C7 sagittal vertical offset (C2-C7 SVA). The parameters were analyzed using Spearman correlation. The cervical curvature type was significantly correlated with C2 lower endplate slope, C0-C2 angle (total degree of C2 lower endplate slope plus McGregor slope), CG-C7 SVA and T1 slope ( P <0.05), but it was not significantly correlated McGregor slope ( P >0.05). C2 lower endplate slope and C2-C7 SVA (r=0.87) were significantly ( P <0.05) correlated with CG-C7 SVA ( P <0.05). There was certain some relationship among position of head, cervical curvature type and associated cervical balance parameters in a neutral looking-forward posture. The center of gravity of the head would backwards shift following faced upward. A position of extension with posterior-shifting of the head would suggest that it may be accompanied with a relatively normal lordosis of the cervical spine. Some patients with abnormal curvature showed slightly bended head in the natural posture. Health education toward these people would be meaningful to restore the balance of their neck.

  4. Venus' center of figure-center of mass offset

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Bindschadler, Duane L.; Schubert, Gerald; Ford, Peter G.

    1994-01-01

    Magellan altimetry data reveal that the center of figure (CF) of Venus is displaced approximately 280 m from its center of mass (CM) toward 4.4 deg S, 135.8 deg E, a location in Aphrodite Terra. This offset is smaller than those of other terrestrial planets but larger than the estimated error, which is no more than a few tens of meters. We examine the possibility that the CF-CM offset is related to specific geologic provinces on Venus by deriving three simple models for the offset: a thick-crust model, a hotspot model, and a thick-lithosphere model. The offset caused by a region of thick crust depends upon the region's extent, the crust-mantle density contrast, and the thickness of excess crust. A hotspot-related offset depends on the extent of the thermally anomalous region and the magnitude of the thermal anomaly. Offset due to a region of thick lithosphere depends upon the extent of the region, the average temperature contrast across the lithosphere, and the amount of excess lithosphere. We apply the three models to Venus plateau-shaped highlands, volcanic rises, and lowlands, respectively, in an attempt to match the observed CF-CM offset location and magnitude. The influence of most volcanic rises and of Ishtar Terra on the CF-CM offset must be quite small if we are to explain the direction of the observed offset. The lack of influence of volcanic rises can be explained if the related thermal anomalies are limited to a few hundred degrees or less and are plume-shaped (i.e., characterized by a flattened sublithospheric `head' with a narrow cylindrical feeder `tail'). The unimportance of Ishtar Terra is most easily explained if it lies atop a significant mantle downwelling.

  5. 45 CFR 708.10 - Procedures for salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 3 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Procedures for salary offset. 708.10 Section 708... COLLECTION BY SALARY OFFSET FROM INDEBTED CURRENT AND FORMER EMPLOYEES § 708.10 Procedures for salary offset... to final salary payment, retired pay, or lump sum leave, etc. as of the date of separation to the...

  6. 40 CFR 13.21 - Employee salary offset-general.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Employee salary offset-general. 13.21... STANDARDS Administrative Offset § 13.21 Employee salary offset—general. (a) Purpose. This section... collection by salary offset under 5 U.S.C. 5514 of debts owed EPA and debts owed to other Federal agencies by...

  7. Effect of torso flexion on the lumbar torso extensor muscle sagittal plane moment arms.

    PubMed

    Jorgensen, Michael J; Marras, William S; Gupta, Purnendu; Waters, Thomas R

    2003-01-01

    Accurate anatomical inputs for biomechanical models are necessary for valid estimates of internal loading. The magnitude of the moment arm of the lumbar erector muscle group is known to vary as a function of such variables as gender. Anatomical evidence indicates that the moment arms decrease during torso flexion. However, moment arm estimates in biomechanical models that account for individual variability have been derived from imaging studies from supine postures. Quantify the sagittal plane moment arms of the lumbar erector muscle group as a function of torso flexion, and identify individual characteristics that are associated with the magnitude of the moment arms as a function of torso flexion. Utilization of a 0.3 Tesla Open magnetic resonance image (MRI) to image and quantify the moment arm of the right erector muscle group as a function of gender and torso flexion. Axial MRI images through and parallel to each of the lumbar intervertebral discs at four torso flexion angles were obtained from 12 male and 12 female subjects in a lateral recumbent posture. Multivariate analysis of variance was used to investigate the differences in the moment arms at different torso flexion angles, whereas hierarchical linear regression was used to investigate associations with individual anthropometric characteristics and spinal posture. The largest decrease in the lumbar erector muscle group moment arm from neutral to 45-degree flexion occurred at the L5-S1 level (9.7% and 8.9% for men and women, respectively). Measures of spinal curvature (L1-S1 lordosis), body mass and trunk characteristics (depth or circumference) were associated with the varying moment arm at most lumbar levels. The sagittal plane moment arms of the lumbar erector muscle mass decrease as the torso flexes forward. The change in moment arms as a function of torso flexion may have an impact on prediction of spinal loading in biomechanical models.

  8. An Assessment of Correlation between Dermatoglyphic Patterns and Sagittal Skeletal Discrepancies

    PubMed Central

    Philip, Biju; Madathody, Deepika; Mathew, Manu; Paul, Jose; Dlima, Johnson Prakash

    2017-01-01

    Introduction Investigators over years have been fascinated by dermatoglyphic patterns which has led to the development of dermatoglyphics as a science with numerous applications in various fields other than being the best and most widely used method for personal identification. Aim To assess the correlation between dermatoglyphic patterns and sagittal skeletal discrepancies. Materials and Methods A total of 180 patients, aged 18-40 years, were selected from those who attended the outpatient clinic of the Deparment of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Mar Baselios Dental College, Kothamangalam, Kerala, India. The fingerprints of both hands were taken by ink and stamp method after proper hand washing. The patterns of arches, loops and whorls in fingerprints were assessed. The total ridge count was also evaluated. Data was also sent to the fingerprint experts for expert evaluation. The sagittal jaw relation was determined from the patient’s lateral cephalogram. The collected data was then statistically analyzed using Chi-square tests, ANOVA and Post-hoc tests and a Multinomial regression prediction was also done. Results A significant association was observed between the dermatoglyphic pattern exhibited by eight fingers and the sagittal skeletal discrepancies (p<0.05). An increased distribution of whorl pattern was observed in the skeletal Class II with maxillary excess group and skeletal Class II with mandibular deficiency group while an increased distribution of loop pattern was seen in the skeletal Class III with mandibular excess group and skeletal Class III with maxillary deficiency group. Higher mean of total ridge count was also seen in the groups of skeletal Class II with maxillary excess and skeletal Class II with mandibular deficiency. Multinomial regression predicting skeletal pattern with respect to the fingerprint pattern showed that the left thumb impression fits the best model for predicting the skeletal pattern. Conclusion There was a

  9. Economic and ecological outcomes of flexible biodiversity offset systems.

    PubMed

    Habib, Thomas J; Farr, Daniel R; Schneider, Richard R; Boutin, Stan

    2013-12-01

    The commonly expressed goal of biodiversity offsets is to achieve no net loss of specific biological features affected by development. However, strict equivalency requirements may complicate trading of offset credits, increase costs due to restricted offset placement options, and force offset activities to focus on features that may not represent regional conservation priorities. Using the oil sands industry of Alberta, Canada, as a case study, we evaluated the economic and ecological performance of alternative offset systems targeting either ecologically equivalent areas (vegetation types) or regional conservation priorities (caribou and the Dry Mixedwood natural subregion). Exchanging dissimilar biodiversity elements requires assessment via a generalized metric; we used an empirically derived index of biodiversity intactness to link offsets with losses incurred by development. We considered 2 offset activities: land protection, with costs estimated as the net present value of profits of petroleum and timber resources to be paid as compensation to resource tenure holders, and restoration of anthropogenic footprint, with costs estimated from existing restoration projects. We used the spatial optimization tool MARXAN to develop hypothetical offset networks that met either the equivalent-vegetation or conservation-priority targets. Networks that required offsetting equivalent vegetation cost 2-17 times more than priority-focused networks. This finding calls into question the prudence of equivalency-based systems, particularly in relatively undeveloped jurisdictions, where conservation focuses on limiting and directing future losses. Priority-focused offsets may offer benefits to industry and environmental stakeholders by allowing for lower-cost conservation of valued ecological features and may invite discussion on what land-use trade-offs are acceptable when trading biodiversity via offsets. Resultados Económicos y Ecológicos de Sistemas de Compensación de

  10. Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion Alters Whole-Spine Sagittal Alignment

    PubMed Central

    Kim, Jang Hoon; Yi, Seong; Kim, Kyung Hyun; Kuh, Sung Uk; Chin, Dong Kyu; Kim, Keun Su; Cho, Yong Eun

    2015-01-01

    Purpose Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) has become a common spine procedure, however, there have been no previous studies on whole spine alignment changes after cervical fusion. Our purpose in this study was to determine whole spine sagittal alignment and pelvic alignment changes after ACDF. Materials and Methods Forty-eight patients who had undergone ACDF from January 2011 to December 2012 were enrolled in this study. Cervical lordosis, thoracic kyphosis, lumbar lordosis, sagittal vertical axis (SVA), and pelvic parameters were measured preoperatively and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Clinical outcomes were assessed using Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores and Neck Disability Index (NDI) values. Results Forty-eight patients were grouped according to operative method (cage only, cage & plate), operative level (upper level: C3/4 & C4/5; lower level: C5/6 & C6/7), and cervical lordosis (high lordosis, low lordosis). All patients experienced significant improvements in VAS scores and NDI values after surgery. Among the radiologic parameters, pelvic tilt increased and sacral slope decreased at 12 months postoperatively. Only the high cervical lordosis group showed significantly-decreased cervical lordosis and a shortened SVA postoperatively. Correlation tests revealed that cervical lordosis was significantly correlated with SVA and that SVA was significantly correlated with pelvic tilt and sacral slope. Conclusion ACDF affects whole spine sagittal alignment, especially in patients with high cervical lordosis. In these patients, alteration of cervical lordosis to a normal angle shortened the SVA and resulted in reciprocal changes in pelvic tilt and sacral slope. PMID:26069131

  11. 45 CFR 607.8 - Procedures for salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 3 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Procedures for salary offset. 607.8 Section 607.8 Public Welfare Regulations Relating to Public Welfare (Continued) NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION SALARY OFFSET § 607.8 Procedures for salary offset. (a) Deductions to liquidate an employee's debt will be by the method and in the amount stated in the...

  12. Subtalar neutral position as an offset for a kinematic model of the foot during walking.

    PubMed

    Houck, Jeff R; Tome, Josh M; Nawoczenski, Deborah A

    2008-07-01

    The lack of a common reference position when defining foot postures may underestimate the ability to differentiate foot function in subjects with pathology. The effect of using the subtalar neutral (STN) position as an offset for both rearfoot and forefoot through comparison of the kinematic walking patterns of subjects classified as normal (n=7) and abnormally pronated (n=14) foot postures was completed. An Optotrak Motion Analysis System (Northern Digital, Inc.) integrated with Motion Monitor Software (Innovative Sports, Inc.) was used to track three-dimensional movement of the leg, rearfoot and first metatarsal segments. Intrarater reliability of positioning the foot into STN using clinical guidelines was determined for a single rater for 21 subjects. Walking data were subsequently compared before and after an offset was applied to the rearfoot and first metatarsal segments. Repeated measures of foot positioning found the STN position to be highly repeatable (intraclass correlation coefficients>0.9), with peak errors ranging from 1.9 degrees to 4.3 degrees . Utilizing STN as the offset resulted in a significant increase in rearfoot eversion (p=0.019) during early stance, and greater first metatarsal dorsiflexion (p<0.007) across stance in the pronated foot groups that was not observed prior to applying the offset. When applied to subjects with differing foot postures, the selection of a common reference position that is both clinically appropriate and reliable may distinguish kinematic patterns during walking that are consistent with theories of abnormal pronation.

  13. Spinal curves and health: a systematic critical review of the epidemiological literature dealing with associations between sagittal spinal curves and health.

    PubMed

    Christensen, Sanne Toftgaard; Hartvigsen, Jan

    2008-01-01

    The purposes of this study were to (1) determine whether sagittal spinal curves are associated with health in epidemiological studies, (2) estimate the strength of such associations, and (3) consider whether these relations are likely to be causal. A systematic critical literature review of epidemiological (cross-sectional, case-control, cohort) studies published before 2008 including studies identified in the CINAHL, EMBASE, Mantis, and Medline databases was performed using a structured checklist and a quality assessment. Level of evidence analysis was performed as outlined by van Tulder et al (Spine. 2003;28:1290-9), and the strength of associations were determined using the procedure outlined by Hemingway and Marmot (BMJ. 1999;318:1460-7). Quality of the included articles were assessed by our own scoring system based on the STrengthening the Reporting of OBservational studies in Epidemiology checklist. Studies scoring maximum points (4/4 or 3/3) were considered to be of higher quality. Fifty-four original studies were included. We found no strong evidence for any association between sagittal spinal curves and any health outcomes including spinal pain. The included studies were generally of low methodological quality. There is moderate evidence for association between sagittal spinal curves and 4 health outcomes as follows: temporomandibular disorders (no odds ratios [ORs] provided), pelvic organ prolapse (OR, 3.18; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.46-96.93), daily function (OR range, 1.8-3.7; 95% CI range, 1.1-6.3), and death (OR, 1.40; 95% CI, 1.08-1.91). These associations are however unlikely to be causal. Evidence from epidemiological studies does not support an association between sagittal spinal curves and health including spinal pain. Further research of better methodological quality may affect this conclusion, and causal effects cannot be determined in a systematic review.

  14. A clinico-radiographic analysis of sagittal condylar guidance determined by protrusive interocclusal registration and panoramic radiographic images in humans

    PubMed Central

    Prasad, Krishna D.; Shah, Namrata; Hegde, Chethan

    2012-01-01

    Purpose: To evaluate the correlation between sagittal condylar guidance obtained by protrusive interocclusal records and panoramic radiograph tracing methods in human dentulous subjects. Materials and Methods: The sagittal condylar guidance was determined in 75 dentulous subjects by protrusive interocclusal records using Aluwax through a face bow transfer (HANAU™ Spring Bow, Whip Mix Corporation, USA) to a semi-adjustable articulator (HANAU™ Wide-Vue Articulator, Whip Mix Corporation, USA). In the same subjects, the sagittal outline of the articular eminence and glenoid fossa was traced in panoramic radiographs. The sagittal condylar path inclination was constructed by joining the heights of curvature in the glenoid fossa and the corresponding articular eminence. This was then related to the constructed Frankfurt's horizontal plane to determine the radiographic angle of sagittal condylar guidance. Results: A strong positive correlation existed between right and left condylar guidance by the protrusive interocclusal method (P 0.000) and similarly by the radiographic method (P 0.013). The mean difference between the condylar guidance obtained using both methods were 1.97° for the right side and 3.18° for the left side. This difference between the values by the two methods was found to be highly significant for the right (P 0.003) and left side (P 0.000), respectively. The sagittal condylar guidance obtained from both methods showed a significant positive correlation on right (P 0.000) and left side (P 0.015), respectively. Conclusion: Panoramic radiographic tracings of the sagittal condylar path guidance may be made relative to the Frankfurt's horizontal reference plane and the resulting condylar guidance angles used to set the condylar guide settings of semi-adjustable articulators. PMID:23633793

  15. A Simple Joint Estimation Method of Residual Frequency Offset and Sampling Frequency Offset for DVB Systems

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kwon, Ki-Won; Cho, Yongsoo

    This letter presents a simple joint estimation method for residual frequency offset (RFO) and sampling frequency offset (STO) in OFDM-based digital video broadcasting (DVB) systems. The proposed method selects a continual pilot (CP) subset from an unsymmetrically and non-uniformly distributed CP set to obtain an unbiased estimator. Simulation results show that the proposed method using a properly selected CP subset is unbiased and performs robustly.

  16. 19 CFR 201.204 - Salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... 19 Customs Duties 3 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Salary offset. 201.204 Section 201.204 Customs... offset is initiated. The Notice of Intent shall state: (1) That the Director has reviewed the records... accumulated interest is paid in full; (3) The amount of the debt and the facts giving rise to the debt; (4) A...

  17. If substance use disorder treatment more than offsets its costs, why don't more medical centers want to provide it? A budget impact analysis in the Veterans Health Administration.

    PubMed

    Humphreys, Keith; Wagner, Todd H; Gage, Mistry

    2011-10-01

    Given that many studies have reported that the costs of substance use disorder (SUD) treatment are more than offset by other savings (e.g., in health care, in criminal justice, in foster care), why haven't health care system managers rushed to expand treatment? This article attempts to explain this puzzling discrepancy by analyzing 1998-2006 data from the national Veterans Affairs (VA) health care system. The main outcome measures were annual cost and utilization for VA SUD-diagnosed patients. The key independent variable was the medical centers' annual spending for SUD treatment. There was no evidence that SUD spending was associated with lower medical center costs over time within the medical center that paid for the treatment. Health care system managers may not be influenced by research suggesting that the costs of SUD treatment are more than fully offset because they bear the cost of providing treatment while the savings largely accrue to other systems. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  18. Biodiversity offsets and the challenge of achieving no net loss.

    PubMed

    Gardner, Toby A; VON Hase, Amrei; Brownlie, Susie; Ekstrom, Jonathan M M; Pilgrim, John D; Savy, Conrad E; Stephens, R T Theo; Treweek, Jo; Ussher, Graham T; Ward, Gerri; Ten Kate, Kerry

    2013-12-01

    Businesses, governments, and financial institutions are increasingly adopting a policy of no net loss of biodiversity for development activities. The goal of no net loss is intended to help relieve tension between conservation and development by enabling economic gains to be achieved without concomitant biodiversity losses. biodiversity offsets represent a necessary component of a much broader mitigation strategy for achieving no net loss following prior application of avoidance, minimization, and remediation measures. However, doubts have been raised about the appropriate use of biodiversity offsets. We examined what no net loss means as a desirable conservation outcome and reviewed the conditions that determine whether, and under what circumstances, biodiversity offsets can help achieve such a goal. We propose a conceptual framework to substitute the often ad hoc approaches evident in many biodiversity offset initiatives. The relevance of biodiversity offsets to no net loss rests on 2 fundamental premises. First, offsets are rarely adequate for achieving no net loss of biodiversity alone. Second, some development effects may be too difficult or risky, or even impossible, to offset. To help to deliver no net loss through biodiversity offsets, biodiversity gains must be comparable to losses, be in addition to conservation gains that may have occurred in absence of the offset, and be lasting and protected from risk of failure. Adherence to these conditions requires consideration of the wider landscape context of development and offset activities, timing of offset delivery, measurement of biodiversity, accounting procedures and rule sets used to calculate biodiversity losses and gains and guide offset design, and approaches to managing risk. Adoption of this framework will strengthen the potential for offsets to provide an ecologically defensible mechanism that can help reconcile conservation and development. Balances de Biodiversidad y el Reto de No Obtener P

  19. How economic contexts shape calculations of yield in biodiversity offsetting.

    PubMed

    Carver, L; Sullivan, S

    2017-10-01

    We examined and analyzed methods used to create numerical equivalence between sites affected by development and proposed conservation offset sites. Application of biodiversity offsetting metrics in development impact and mitigation assessments is thought to standardize biodiversity conservation outcomes, sometimes termed yield by those conducting these calculations. The youth of biodiversity offsetting in application, however, means little is known about how biodiversity valuations and offset contracts between development and offset sites are agreed on in practice or about long-term conservation outcomes. We examined how sites were made commensurable and how biodiversity gains or yields were calculated and negotiated for a specific offset contract in a government-led pilot study of biodiversity offsets in England. Over 24 months, we conducted participant observations of various stages in the negotiation of offset contracts through repeated visits to 3 (anonymized) biodiversity offset contract sites. We conducted 50 semistructured interviews of stakeholders in regional and local government, the private sector, and civil society. We used a qualitative data analysis software program (DEDOOSE) to textually analyze interview transcriptions. We also compared successive iterations of biodiversity-offsetting calculation spreadsheets and planning documents. A particular focus was the different iterations of a specific biodiversity impact assessment in which the biodiversity offsetting metric developed by the U.K.'s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs was used. We highlight 3 main findings. First, biodiversity offsetting metrics were amended in creative ways as users adapted inputs to metric calculations to balance and negotiate conflicting requirements. Second, the practice of making different habitats equivalent to each other through the application of biodiversity offsetting metrics resulted in commensuration outcomes that may not provide projected

  20. Leu-9 (CD 7) positivity in acute leukemias: a marker of T-cell lineage?

    PubMed

    Ben-Ezra, J; Winberg, C D; Wu, A; Rappaport, H

    1987-01-01

    Monoclonal antibody Leu-9 (CD 7) has been reported to be a sensitive and specific marker for T-cell lineage in leukemic processes, since it is positive in patients whose leukemic cells fail to express other T-cell antigens. To test whether Leu-9 is indeed specific for T-cell leukemias, we examined in detail 10 cases of acute leukemia in which reactions were positive for Leu-9 and negative for other T-cell-associated markers including T-11, Leu-1, T-3, and E-rosettes. Morphologically and cytochemically, 2 of these 10 leukemias were classified as lymphoblastic, 4 as myeloblastic, 2 as monoblastic, 1 as megakaryoblastic, and 1 as undifferentiated. The case of acute megakaryoblastic leukemia is the first reported case to be Leu-9 positive. None of the 10 were TdT positive. Of six cases (two monoblastic, one lymphoblastic, one myeloblastic, one megakaryoblastic, and one undifferentiated) in which we evaluated for DNA gene rearrangements, only one, a peroxidase-positive leukemia, showed a novel band on study of the T-cell-receptor beta-chain gene. We therefore conclude that Leu-9 is not a specific marker to T-cell lineage and that, in the absence of other supporting data, Leu-9 positivity should not be used as the sole basis of classifying an acute leukemia as being T-cell derived.

  1. 5 CFR 179.213 - Coordinating salary offset with other agencies.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 5 Administrative Personnel 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Coordinating salary offset with other... REGULATIONS CLAIMS COLLECTION STANDARDS Salary Offset § 179.213 Coordinating salary offset with other agencies... intent of this regulation. (2) The designated salary offset coordinator will be responsible for: (i...

  2. Advanced Colloids Experiment (Temperature Controlled) - ACE-T9

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Marr, David W. M.; Meyer, William V.; Sicker, Ronald; Bailey, Kelly; Eustace, John G.

    2017-01-01

    Increment 53 - 54 Science Symposium presentation of Advanced Colloids Experiment (ACE-T9) to RPO. The purpose of this event is for Principal Investigators to present their science objectives, testing approach, and measurement methods to agency scientists, managers, and other investigators.

  3. 40 CFR 93.163 - Timing of offsets and mitigation measures.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 20 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Timing of offsets and mitigation... offsets and mitigation measures. (a) The emissions reductions from an offset or mitigation measure used to... offset or mitigation measure with emissions reductions in another year will not: (i) Cause or contribute...

  4. 40 CFR 93.163 - Timing of offsets and mitigation measures.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 20 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Timing of offsets and mitigation... offsets and mitigation measures. (a) The emissions reductions from an offset or mitigation measure used to... offset or mitigation measure with emissions reductions in another year will not: (i) Cause or contribute...

  5. 40 CFR 93.163 - Timing of offsets and mitigation measures.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 21 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Timing of offsets and mitigation... offsets and mitigation measures. (a) The emissions reductions from an offset or mitigation measure used to... offset or mitigation measure with emissions reductions in another year will not: (i) Cause or contribute...

  6. 40 CFR 93.163 - Timing of offsets and mitigation measures.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 20 2014-07-01 2013-07-01 true Timing of offsets and mitigation... offsets and mitigation measures. (a) The emissions reductions from an offset or mitigation measure used to... offset or mitigation measure with emissions reductions in another year will not: (i) Cause or contribute...

  7. 40 CFR 93.163 - Timing of offsets and mitigation measures.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 21 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Timing of offsets and mitigation... offsets and mitigation measures. (a) The emissions reductions from an offset or mitigation measure used to... offset or mitigation measure with emissions reductions in another year will not: (i) Cause or contribute...

  8. Midline as a landmark for the position of the superior sagittal sinus on the cranial vault: An anatomical and imaging study.

    PubMed

    Reis, Cassius Vinicius C; Gusmão, Sebastião N S; Elhadi, Ali M; Dru, Alexander; Tazinaffo, Uédson; Zabramski, Joseph M; Spetzler, Robert F; Preul, Mark C

    2015-01-01

    Craniotomies involving the midline are regular practice in neurosurgery, during which injury to the superior sagittal sinus (SSS), an uncommon yet devastating event, may occur. The midline tends to be the most common landmark used to identify the position of the SSS. In this study we examined the reliability of the midline as a landmark for the SSS. We performed bilateral craniectomies on eight cadaveric heads, preserving the coronal, sagittal, and lambdoid sutures. The width of the SSS and its displacement from midline were measured on the cadaveric specimens and on 105 normal magnetic resonance images (MRIs) of the head at the following locations: halfway between nasion and bregma (NB), bregma (B), halfway between bregma and lambda (BL), lambda (L), and inion (I). In all cadaveric specimens, the SSS was partially or totally displaced toward one side of midline, usually to the right. It tended to be closer to midline in the frontal region and more displaced posteriorly. The SSS usually drained into the right-side transverse sinus. The mean width of the SSS was 4.3, 5.9, 6.9, 7.9, and 7.8 mm, and the average displacement from midline was 4.3, 6.3, 5.5, 6.9, and 6.0 mm for NB, B, BL, L, and I, respectively. These measurements were then compared with those obtained from the MRIs. The SSS was consistently displaced on either side of midline. Thus, the midline is not reliable for identifying the SSS, and caution should be used within 6-10 mm on either side of midline.

  9. Offset Compound Gear Drive

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Stevens, Mark A.; Handschuh, Robert F.; Lewicki, David G.

    2010-01-01

    The Offset Compound Gear Drive is an in-line, discrete, two-speed device utilizing a special offset compound gear that has both an internal tooth configuration on the input end and external tooth configuration on the output end, thus allowing it to mesh in series, simultaneously, with both a smaller external tooth input gear and a larger internal tooth output gear. This unique geometry and offset axis permits the compound gear to mesh with the smaller diameter input gear and the larger diameter output gear, both of which are on the same central, or primary, centerline. This configuration results in a compact in-line reduction gear set consisting of fewer gears and bearings than a conventional planetary gear train. Switching between the two output ratios is accomplished through a main control clutch and sprag. Power flow to the above is transmitted through concentric power paths. Low-speed operation is accomplished in two meshes. For the purpose of illustrating the low-speed output operation, the following example pitch diameters are given. A 5.0 pitch diameter (PD) input gear to 7.50 PD (internal tooth) intermediate gear (0.667 reduction mesh), and a 7.50 PD (external tooth) intermediate gear to a 10.00 PD output gear (0.750 reduction mesh). Note that it is not required that the intermediate gears on the offset axis be of the same diameter. For this example, the resultant low-speed ratio is 2:1 (output speed = 0.500; product of stage one 0.667 reduction and stage two 0.750 stage reduction). The design is not restricted to the example pitch diameters, or output ratio. From the output gear, power is transmitted through a hollow drive shaft, which, in turn, drives a sprag during which time the main clutch is disengaged.

  10. 22 CFR 213.20 - Administrative offset of non-employee debts.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 22 Foreign Relations 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Administrative offset of non-employee debts... Administrative Offset § 213.20 Administrative offset of non-employee debts. This subpart provides for USAID's... procedures for contractual offsets accommodated by the Contracts Disputes Act); or (iii) In the case of non...

  11. 12 CFR 313.49 - Coordinating salary offset with other agencies.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 12 Banks and Banking 4 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Coordinating salary offset with other agencies... PRACTICE PROCEDURES FOR CORPORATE DEBT COLLECTION Salary Offset § 313.49 Coordinating salary offset with... employee has consented to the salary offset in writing or has signed a statement acknowledging receipt of...

  12. Synthesis and evaluation of phosphorus containing, specific CDK9/CycT1 inhibitors.

    PubMed

    Németh, Gábor; Greff, Zoltán; Sipos, Anna; Varga, Zoltán; Székely, Rita; Sebestyén, Mónika; Jászay, Zsuzsa; Béni, Szabolcs; Nemes, Zoltán; Pirat, Jean-Luc; Volle, Jean-Noël; Virieux, David; Gyuris, Ágnes; Kelemenics, Katalin; Ay, Eva; Minarovits, Janos; Szathmary, Susan; Kéri, György; Orfi, László

    2014-05-22

    Although there is a significant effort in the design of a selective CDK9/CycT1 inhibitor, no compound has been proven to be a specific inhibitor of this kinase so far. The aim of this research was to develop novel and selective phosphorus containing CDK9/CycT1 inhibitors. Molecules bearing phosphonamidate, phosphonate, and phosphinate moieties were synthesized. Prepared compounds were evaluated in an enzymatic CDK9/CycT1 assay. The most potent molecules were tested in cell-based toxicity and HIV proliferation assays. Selectivity of shortlisted compounds against CDKs and other kinases was tested. The best compound was shown to be a highly specific, ATP-competitive inhibitor of CDK9/CycT1 with antiviral activity.

  13. Spinal sagittal balance substantially influences locomotive syndrome and physical performance in community-living middle-aged and elderly women.

    PubMed

    Muramoto, Akio; Imagama, Shiro; Ito, Zenya; Hirano, Kenichi; Ishiguro, Naoki; Hasegawa, Yukiharu

    2016-03-01

    Spinal sagittal imbalance has been well known risk factor of decreased quality of life in the field of adult spinal deformity. However, the impact of spinal sagittal balance on locomotive syndrome and physical performance in community-living elderly has not yet been clarified. The present study investigated the influence of spinal sagittal alignment on locomotive syndrome (LS) and physical performance in community-living middle-aged and elderly women. A total of 125 women between the age of 40-88 years (mean 66.2 ± 9.7 years) who completed the questionnaires, spinal mouse test, physical examination and physical performance tests in Yakumo study were enrolled in this study. Participants answered the 25-Question Geriatric Locomotive Function Scale (GLFS-25), the visual analog scale (VAS) for low back pain (LBP), knee pain. LS was defined as having a score of >16 points on the GLFS-25. Using spinal mouse, spinal inclination angle (SIA), thoracic kyphosis angle (TKA), lumbar lordosis angle (LLA), sacral slope angle (SSA), thoracic spinal range of motion (TSROM), lumbar spinal range of motion (LSROM) were measured. Timed-up-and-go test (TUG), one-leg standing time with eyes open (OLS), and maximum stride, back muscle strength were also measured. The relationship between spinal sagittal parameters and GLFS-25, VAS and physical performance tests were analyzed. 26 people were diagnosed as LS and 99 were diagnosed as non-LS. LBP and knee pain were greater, physical performance tests were poorer, SIA were greater, LLA were smaller in LS group compared to non-LS group even after adjustment by age. SIA significantly correlated with GLFS-25, TUG, OLS and maximum stride even after adjustment by age. The cutoff value of SIA for locomotive syndrome was 6°. People with a SIA of 6° or greater were grouped as "Inclined" and people with a SIA of less than 6° were grouped as "Non-inclined". 21 people were "Inclined" and 104 were "Non-inclined". Odds ratio to fall in LS of

  14. 40 CFR 77.4 - Administrator's action on proposed offset plans.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... representative. The Administrator will also give notice of any approval in the Federal Register. The plans will... response to public comments submitted on the draft offset plan or disapproval of a draft offset plan... offset plan. The Administrator will serve a copy of any approved offset plan and the response to comments...

  15. 40 CFR 77.4 - Administrator's action on proposed offset plans.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... representative. The Administrator will also give notice of any approval in the Federal Register. The plans will... response to public comments submitted on the draft offset plan or disapproval of a draft offset plan... offset plan. The Administrator will serve a copy of any approved offset plan and the response to comments...

  16. 40 CFR 77.4 - Administrator's action on proposed offset plans.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... representative. The Administrator will also give notice of any approval in the Federal Register. The plans will... response to public comments submitted on the draft offset plan or disapproval of a draft offset plan... offset plan. The Administrator will serve a copy of any approved offset plan and the response to comments...

  17. 40 CFR 77.4 - Administrator's action on proposed offset plans.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... representative. The Administrator will also give notice of any approval in the Federal Register. The plans will... response to public comments submitted on the draft offset plan or disapproval of a draft offset plan... offset plan. The Administrator will serve a copy of any approved offset plan and the response to comments...

  18. Anti-fibrotic characteristics of Vγ9+ γδ T cells in systemic sclerosis.

    PubMed

    Markovits, Noa; Bendersky, Anna; Loebstein, Ronen; Brusel, Marina; Kessler, Efrat; Bank, Ilan

    2016-01-01

    γδ T cells of the Vγ9Vδ2 subtype secrete anti-fibrotic cytokines upon isopentenyl pyrophosphate (IPP) stimulation. In this study, we sought to compare IPP and Zoledronate, an up-regulator of IPP, effects on proliferation and cytokine secretion of Vγ9+ T cells from systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients and healthy controls (HCs). We also examined the effect of IPP-triggered peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) on fibroblast procolla- gen secretion. PBMC from SSc patients and HCs were stimulated by increasing concentrations of Zoledronate, with or without IPP, and Vγ9+ T cell percentages were calculated using FACScan analysis. Subsequently, PBMC were cultured with IPP or toxic shock syndrome toxin-1 (TSST-1), and contents of the anti-fibrotic cytokines tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interferon (IFN)-γ were measured by ELISA kits. Finally, supernatants of IPP-triggered Vγ9+ T cells from SSc patients were added to fibroblast cultures, and relative intensities of procollagen α1 chains were determined by densinometry. Higher concentrations of Zoledronate were required for maximal proliferation of Vγ9+ T cells in 9 SSc patients compared to 9 HCs, irrespective of exogenous IPP. When compared to stimulation by TSST-1, a non-Vγ9+ selective reagent, secretion of the anti-fibrotic cytokines TNF-α and IFN-γ in response to IPP was relatively diminished in SSc but not in HCs. Reduction of procollagen secretion by fibroblasts cultured with supernatants of IPP-stimulated PBMC was observed only in some SSc patients. Activated Vγ9+ T cells could act as anti-fibrotic mediators in SSc, although decreased responsiveness to IPP may play a role in the pathological fibrosis of this disease.

  19. Comparison of prostate contours between conventional stepping transverse imaging and Twister-based sagittal imaging in permanent interstitial prostate brachytherapy.

    PubMed

    Kawakami, Shogo; Ishiyama, Hiromichi; Satoh, Takefumi; Tsumura, Hideyasu; Sekiguchi, Akane; Takenaka, Kouji; Tabata, Ken-Ichi; Iwamura, Masatsugu; Hayakawa, Kazushige

    2017-08-01

    To compare prostate contours on conventional stepping transverse image acquisitions with those on twister-based sagittal image acquisitions. Twenty prostate cancer patients who were planned to have permanent interstitial prostate brachytherapy were prospectively accrued. A transrectal ultrasonography probe was inserted, with the patient in lithotomy position. Transverse images were obtained with stepping movement of the transverse transducer. In the same patient, sagittal images were also obtained through rotation of the sagittal transducer using the "Twister" mode. The differences of prostate size among the two types of image acquisitions were compared. The relationships among the difference of the two types of image acquisitions, dose-volume histogram (DVH) parameters on the post-implant computed tomography (CT) analysis, as well as other factors were analyzed. The sagittal image acquisitions showed a larger prostate size compared to the transverse image acquisitions especially in the anterior-posterior (AP) direction ( p < 0.05). Interestingly, relative size of prostate apex in AP direction in sagittal image acquisitions compared to that in transverse image acquisitions was correlated to DVH parameters such as D 90 ( R = 0.518, p = 0.019), and V 100 ( R = 0.598, p = 0.005). There were small but significant differences in the prostate contours between the transverse and the sagittal planning image acquisitions. Furthermore, our study suggested that the differences between the two types of image acquisitions might correlated to dosimetric results on CT analysis.

  20. Morphometric study of mandibular ramus related to sagittal ramus split osteotomy and osteosynthesis.

    PubMed

    Vinicius de Oliveira, Marcelo; de Moraes, Paulo Hemerson; Olate, Sergio; Alonso, Maria Beatriz C; Watanabe, Plauto Christopher Aranha; Haiter-Neto, Francisco; de Albergaria-Barbosa, José Ricardo

    2012-09-01

    The objective of this study was to quantify the cortical bone thickness of the mandibular ramus to determine conditions related to sagittal split ramus osteotomy and placement of screws. The patient sample comprised 44 subjects of ages ranging from 46 to 52 years (mean age, 49 years). The cone-beam computed tomography was performed and realized 3 cuts in the third molar area (section A), 5 mm posterior (section B), and 5 mm posterior to the latter (section C). Measurement in the cortical areas of the superior and inferior levels related to mandibular canal and measurement related to the total width of the mandible was executed. Intraclass correlation coefficient with P < 0.05 was used. The result showed that the buccal and lingual cortical zone did not present statistical differences, and the minor value was 1.5 mm for each one. There were no differences in the superior and inferior cortical bone, and the total width of the mandible was between 15.9 and 8.5 mm in the anterior area, between 17.4 and 12.8 mm in the middle area, and between 18 and 8.8 mm in the posterior area. The distance superiorly to the mandibular canal presented a minimal SD with a mean of 8.5 mm in the anterior region, 10.6 mm for the middle region, and 12.5 mm in the posterior region. In conclusion, the cortical thickness of the mandibular ramus in the adult population is particularly strong and offers a good anchorage for screw insertion in sagittal split ramus osteotomy.

  1. Influence of Lift Offset on Rotorcraft Performance

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Johnson, Wayne

    2009-01-01

    The influence of lift offset on the performance of several rotorcraft configurations is explored. A lift-offset rotor, or advancing blade concept, is a hingeless rotor that can attain good efficiency at high speed by operating with more lift on the advancing side than on the retreating side of the rotor disk. The calculated performance capability of modern-technology coaxial rotors utilizing a lift offset is examined, including rotor performance optimized for hover and high-speed cruise. The ideal induced power loss of coaxial rotors in hover and twin rotors in forward flight is presented. The aerodynamic modeling requirements for performance calculations are evaluated, including wake and drag models for the high-speed flight condition. The influence of configuration on the performance of rotorcraft with lift-offset rotors is explored, considering tandem and side-by-side rotorcraft as well as wing-rotor lift share.

  2. Influence of Lift Offset on Rotorcraft Performance

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Johnson, Wayne

    2008-01-01

    The influence of lift offset on the performance of several rotorcraft configurations is explored. A lift-offset rotor, or advancing blade concept, is a hingeless rotor that can attain good efficiency at high speed, by operating with more lift on the advancing side than on the retreating side of the rotor disk. The calculated performance capability of modern-technology coaxial rotors utilizing a lift offset is examined, including rotor performance optimized for hover and high-speed cruise. The ideal induced power loss of coaxial rotors in hover and twin rotors in forward flight is presented. The aerodynamic modeling requirements for performance calculations are evaluated, including wake and drag models for the high speed flight condition. The influence of configuration on the performance of rotorcraft with lift-offset rotors is explored, considering tandem and side-by-side rotorcraft as well as wing-rotor lift share.

  3. 15 CFR 19.10 - How will Commerce entities use administrative offset (offset of non-tax Federal payments) to...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... 15 Commerce and Foreign Trade 1 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false How will Commerce entities use administrative offset (offset of non-tax Federal payments) to collect a Commerce debt? 19.10 Section 19.10 Commerce and Foreign Trade Office of the Secretary of Commerce COMMERCE DEBT COLLECTION Procedures To...

  4. 15 CFR 19.10 - How will Commerce entities use administrative offset (offset of non-tax Federal payments) to...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... 15 Commerce and Foreign Trade 1 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false How will Commerce entities use administrative offset (offset of non-tax Federal payments) to collect a Commerce debt? 19.10 Section 19.10 Commerce and Foreign Trade Office of the Secretary of Commerce COMMERCE DEBT COLLECTION Procedures To...

  5. 15 CFR 19.10 - How will Commerce entities use administrative offset (offset of non-tax Federal payments) to...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... 15 Commerce and Foreign Trade 1 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false How will Commerce entities use administrative offset (offset of non-tax Federal payments) to collect a Commerce debt? 19.10 Section 19.10 Commerce and Foreign Trade Office of the Secretary of Commerce COMMERCE DEBT COLLECTION Procedures To...

  6. 15 CFR 19.10 - How will Commerce entities use administrative offset (offset of non-tax Federal payments) to...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... 15 Commerce and Foreign Trade 1 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false How will Commerce entities use administrative offset (offset of non-tax Federal payments) to collect a Commerce debt? 19.10 Section 19.10 Commerce and Foreign Trade Office of the Secretary of Commerce COMMERCE DEBT COLLECTION Procedures To...

  7. Cytokine-mediated activation of human ex vivo-expanded Vγ9Vδ2 T cells

    PubMed Central

    Domae, Eisuke; Hirai, Yuya; Ikeo, Takashi; Goda, Seiji; Shimizu, Yoji

    2017-01-01

    9Vδ2 T cells, the major subset of the human peripheral blood γδ T-cell, respond to microbial infection and stressed cells through the recognition of phosphoantigens. In contrast to the growing knowledge of antigen-mediated activation mechanisms, the antigen-independent and cytokine-mediated activation mechanisms of Vγ9Vδ2 T cells are poorly understood. Here, we show that interleukin (IL) -12 and IL-18 synergize to activate human ex vivo-expanded Vγ9Vδ2 T cells. Vγ9Vδ2 T cells treated with IL-12 and IL-18 enhanced effector functions, including the expression of IFN-γ and granzyme B, and cytotoxicity. These enhanced effector responses following IL-12 and IL-18 treatment were associated with homotypic aggregation, enhanced expression of ICAM-1 and decreased expression of the B- and T-lymphocyte attenuator (BTLA), a co-inhibitory receptor. IL-12 and IL-18 also induced the antigen-independent proliferation of Vγ9Vδ2 T cells. Increased expression of IκBζ, IL-12Rβ2 and IL-18Rα following IL-12 and IL-18 stimulation resulted in sustained activation of STAT4 and NF-κB. The enhanced production of IFN-γ and cytotoxic activity are critical for cancer immunotherapy using Vγ9Vδ2 T cells. Thus, the combined treatment of ex vivo-expanded Vγ9Vδ2 T cells with IL-12 and IL-18 may serve as a new strategy for the therapeutic activation of these cells. PMID:28521284

  8. 7 CFR 636.15 - Offsets and assignments.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 6 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Offsets and assignments. 636.15 Section 636.15 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued) NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE LONG TERM CONTRACTING WILDLIFE HABITAT INCENTIVE PROGRAM § 636.15 Offsets and...

  9. 7 CFR 636.15 - Offsets and assignments.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 6 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Offsets and assignments. 636.15 Section 636.15 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued) NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE LONG TERM CONTRACTING WILDLIFE HABITAT INCENTIVE PROGRAM § 636.15 Offsets and...

  10. 7 CFR 636.15 - Offsets and assignments.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 6 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Offsets and assignments. 636.15 Section 636.15 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued) NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE LONG TERM CONTRACTING WILDLIFE HABITAT INCENTIVE PROGRAM § 636.15 Offsets and...

  11. 7 CFR 636.15 - Offsets and assignments.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 6 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Offsets and assignments. 636.15 Section 636.15 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued) NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE LONG TERM CONTRACTING WILDLIFE HABITAT INCENTIVE PROGRAM § 636.15 Offsets and...

  12. 7 CFR 636.15 - Offsets and assignments.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 6 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Offsets and assignments. 636.15 Section 636.15 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued) NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE LONG TERM CONTRACTING WILDLIFE HABITAT INCENTIVES PROGRAM § 636.15 Offsets and...

  13. Adaptive offset correction for intracortical brain-computer interfaces.

    PubMed

    Homer, Mark L; Perge, Janos A; Black, Michael J; Harrison, Matthew T; Cash, Sydney S; Hochberg, Leigh R

    2014-03-01

    Intracortical brain-computer interfaces (iBCIs) decode intended movement from neural activity for the control of external devices such as a robotic arm. Standard approaches include a calibration phase to estimate decoding parameters. During iBCI operation, the statistical properties of the neural activity can depart from those observed during calibration, sometimes hindering a user's ability to control the iBCI. To address this problem, we adaptively correct the offset terms within a Kalman filter decoder via penalized maximum likelihood estimation. The approach can handle rapid shifts in neural signal behavior (on the order of seconds) and requires no knowledge of the intended movement. The algorithm, called multiple offset correction algorithm (MOCA), was tested using simulated neural activity and evaluated retrospectively using data collected from two people with tetraplegia operating an iBCI. In 19 clinical research test cases, where a nonadaptive Kalman filter yielded relatively high decoding errors, MOCA significantly reduced these errors ( 10.6 ± 10.1% ; p < 0.05, pairwise t-test). MOCA did not significantly change the error in the remaining 23 cases where a nonadaptive Kalman filter already performed well. These results suggest that MOCA provides more robust decoding than the standard Kalman filter for iBCIs.

  14. 10 CFR 16.15 - Procedures for internal salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 10 Energy 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Procedures for internal salary offset. 16.15 Section 16.15 Energy NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION SALARY OFFSET PROCEDURES FOR COLLECTING DEBTS OWED BY FEDERAL EMPLOYEES TO THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT § 16.15 Procedures for internal salary offset. (a) Deductions to...

  15. Reliability and reproducibility analysis of the Cobb angle and assessing sagittal plane by computer-assisted and manual measurement tools.

    PubMed

    Wu, Weifei; Liang, Jie; Du, Yuanli; Tan, Xiaoyi; Xiang, Xuanping; Wang, Wanhong; Ru, Neng; Le, Jinbo

    2014-02-06

    Although many studies on reliability and reproducibility of measurement have been performed on coronal Cobb angle, few results about reliability and reproducibility are reported on sagittal alignment measurement including the pelvis. We usually use SurgimapSpine software to measure the Cobb angle in our studies; however, there are no reports till date on its reliability and reproducible measurements. Sixty-eight standard standing posteroanterior whole-spine radiographs were reviewed. Three examiners carried out the measurements independently under the settings of manual measurement on X-ray radiographies and SurgimapSpine software on the computer. Parameters measured included pelvic incidence, sacral slope, pelvic tilt, Lumbar lordosis (LL), thoracic kyphosis, and coronal Cobb angle. SPSS 16.0 software was used for statistical analyses. The means, standard deviations, intraclass and interclass correlation coefficient (ICC), and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. There was no notable difference between the two tools (P = 0.21) for the coronal Cobb angle. In the sagittal plane parameters, the ICC of intraobserver reliability for the manual measures varied from 0.65 (T2-T5 angle) to 0.95 (LL angle). Further, for SurgimapSpine tool, the ICC ranged from 0.75 to 0.98. No significant difference in intraobserver reliability was found between the two measurements (P > 0.05). As for the interobserver reliability, measurements with SurgimapSpine tool had better ICC (0.71 to 0.98 vs 0.59 to 0.96) and Pearson's coefficient (0.76 to 0.99 vs 0.60 to 0.97). The reliability of SurgimapSpine measures was significantly higher in all parameters except for the coronal Cobb angle where the difference was not significant (P > 0.05). Although the differences between the two methods are very small, the results of this study indicate that the SurgimapSpine measurement is an equivalent measuring tool to the traditional manual in coronal Cobb angle, but is advantageous in spino

  16. Reliability and reproducibility analysis of the Cobb angle and assessing sagittal plane by computer-assisted and manual measurement tools

    PubMed Central

    2014-01-01

    Background Although many studies on reliability and reproducibility of measurement have been performed on coronal Cobb angle, few results about reliability and reproducibility are reported on sagittal alignment measurement including the pelvis. We usually use SurgimapSpine software to measure the Cobb angle in our studies; however, there are no reports till date on its reliability and reproducible measurements. Methods Sixty-eight standard standing posteroanterior whole-spine radiographs were reviewed. Three examiners carried out the measurements independently under the settings of manual measurement on X-ray radiographies and SurgimapSpine software on the computer. Parameters measured included pelvic incidence, sacral slope, pelvic tilt, Lumbar lordosis (LL), thoracic kyphosis, and coronal Cobb angle. SPSS 16.0 software was used for statistical analyses. The means, standard deviations, intraclass and interclass correlation coefficient (ICC), and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. Results There was no notable difference between the two tools (P = 0.21) for the coronal Cobb angle. In the sagittal plane parameters, the ICC of intraobserver reliability for the manual measures varied from 0.65 (T2–T5 angle) to 0.95 (LL angle). Further, for SurgimapSpine tool, the ICC ranged from 0.75 to 0.98. No significant difference in intraobserver reliability was found between the two measurements (P > 0.05). As for the interobserver reliability, measurements with SurgimapSpine tool had better ICC (0.71 to 0.98 vs 0.59 to 0.96) and Pearson’s coefficient (0.76 to 0.99 vs 0.60 to 0.97). The reliability of SurgimapSpine measures was significantly higher in all parameters except for the coronal Cobb angle where the difference was not significant (P > 0.05). Conclusion Although the differences between the two methods are very small, the results of this study indicate that the SurgimapSpine measurement is an equivalent measuring tool to the traditional manual

  17. 7 CFR 784.14 - Offsets and withholdings.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 7 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Offsets and withholdings. 784.14 Section 784.14 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued) FARM SERVICE AGENCY, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE SPECIAL PROGRAMS 2004 EWE LAMB REPLACEMENT AND RETENTION PAYMENT PROGRAM § 784.14 Offsets and...

  18. The T3-induced gene KLF9 regulates oligodendrocyte differentiation and myelin regeneration

    PubMed Central

    Dugas, Jason C.; Ibrahim, Adiljan; Barres, Ben A.

    2015-01-01

    Hypothyroidism is a well-described cause of hypomyelination. In addition, thyroid hormone (T3) has recently been shown to enhance remyelination in various animal models of CNS demyelination. What are the ways in which T3 promotes the development and regeneration of healthy myelin? To begin to understand the mechanisms by which T3 drives myelination, we have identified genes regulated specifically by T3 in purified oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs). Among the genes identified by genomic expression analyses were four transcription factors, Kruppel-like factor 9 (KLF9), basic helix-loop-helix family member e22 (BHLHe22), Hairless (Hr), and Albumin D box-binding protein (DBP), all of which were induced in OPCs by both brief and long term exposure to T3. To begin to investigate the role of these genes in myelination, we focused on the most rapidly and robustly induced of these, KLF9, and found it is both necessary and sufficient to promote oligodendrocyte differentiation in vitro. Surprisingly, we found that loss of KLF9 in vivo negligibly affects the formation of CNS myelin during development, but does significantly delay remyelination in cuprizone-induced demyelinated lesions. These experiments indicate that KLF9 is likely a novel integral component of the T3-driven signaling cascade that promotes the regeneration of lost myelin. Future analyses of the roles of KLF9 and other identified T3-induced genes in myelination may lead to novel insights into how to enhance the regeneration of myelin in demyelinating diseases such as multiple sclerosis. PMID:22472204

  19. Effect of posterior multilevel vertebral osteotomies on coronal and sagittal balance in fused scoliosis deformity caused by previous surgery: preliminary results.

    PubMed

    Yang, Jae Hyuk; Suh, Seung Woo; Cho, Won Tae; Hwang, Jin Ho; Hong, Jae Young; Modi, Hitesh N

    2014-10-15

    Prospective case series study. To study the effect of posterior multilevel vertebral osteotomy (posterior crack osteotomy) on coronal and sagittal balance in patients with the fusion mass over the spine caused by previous surgery. Few studies have investigated revisional scoliosis surgery with the fusion mass using osteotomy. Among patients who had a history of prior surgery for scoliosis correction and posterior fusion, those showing progression of the curve postoperatively due to nonunion, implant failure, or adding-on phenomenon were enrolled. All patients were treated using posterior crack osteotomy. For clinical evaluation, the pre- and postoperative Gross Motor Function Classification System score for walking status and the Berg balanced scale were used. For radiological evaluation, pre- and postoperative Cobb angle, and coronal and sagittal balance factors were used. Ten patients (5 males and 5 females) were enrolled. The preoperative diagnosis was neuromuscular scoliosis (3 cases), syndromic scoliosis (1 case), congenital scoliosis (5 cases), and neurofibromatosis (1 case). Osteotomies were performed at 3.3±1.3 levels on average. Pre- and postoperative Cobb angles were 70.8°±30.0° and 28.1°±20.0° (P=0.002 (0.97)), respectively. In pre- and postoperative evaluation of coronal balance, the coronal balance, clavicle angle, and T1-tilt angle were 36.8±27.1 mm and 10.4±8.5 mm, 6.7°±8.0° and 3.3°±1.5°, and 7.8°±19.0° and 4.7°±2.1°, respectively (P=0.002, 0.002, 0.002). In pre- and postoperative evaluation of sagittal balance, the spinal vertical axis, thoracic kyphosis, and lumbar alignments were 25.1±37.8 mm and 14.1±21.8 mm, 33.5°±51.1° and 29.7°±27.4°, and 45.7°±34.8° and 48.9°±23.1° (P=0.002, 0.169, 0.169). The walking and functional statuses did not change (P=0.317, 0.932). Although pulmonary and gastrointestinal complications were noted, the patients were discharged without complications. Posterior crack osteotomy can be

  20. 29 CFR 1450.10 - Collection by administrative offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... performance, offset will normally be inappropriate. This concept generally does not apply, however, where... this section has taken place. (g) When collecting multiple debts by administrative offset, FMCS will...

  1. 10 CFR 1015.203 - Collection by administrative offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ...-centralized administrative offsets conducted under paragraph (c) of this section, DOE first learns of the... cooperative efforts of other agencies in effecting collection by administrative offset. (3) When collecting...

  2. Sagittal spinopelvic parameters in children with achondroplasia: identification of 2 distinct groups.

    PubMed

    Karikari, Isaac O; Mehta, Ankit I; Solakoglu, Can; Bagley, Carlos A; Ain, Michael C; Gottfried, Oren N

    2012-07-01

    Spinopelvic parameters in children with achondroplasia have not been described. Because they observed a unique sagittal spinopelvic phenotype in some achondroplastic children with very horizontal sacrums, the authors sought to quantify the spinopelvic parameters in a pediatric patient population. A retrospective review was performed to identify all children (age range 1 month-10 years) with a diagnosis of achondroplasia between 2004 and 2009. Clinical and radiographic data were analyzed for age, sex, lumbar lordosis (LL), thoracic kyphosis (TK), thoracolumbar kyphosis (TLK), sacral slope (SS), pelvic tilt (PT), and pelvic incidence (PI). Differences among these variables were analyzed using a 2-tailed, unpaired Student t-test. Forty children, 23 males and 17 females, with achondroplasia were identified during the study period. The mean age was 2.6 years. Two groups of patients were identified based on PT (that is, negative or positive tilt and horizontal or not horizontal sacrum). A negative PT was identified in all children with an extremely horizontal sacrum. Seventeen children had a negative PT (mean -16.6°), and the mean parameters in this group were 65.4° for LL, 31.7° for TLK, 18.5° for TK, 43.3° for SS, and 26.4° for PI. Twenty-three children had a positive PT (mean 17.9°), and the mean parameters in this group were 53.4° for LL, 41.5° for TLK, 9.6° for TK, 30.8° for SS, and 43.8° for PI. A statistically significant difference was observed for LL (p = 0.01), TLK (p = 0.05), SS (p = 0.006), PT (p = 0.006), and PI (0.0002). Spinopelvic parameters in achondroplasia are potentially dichotomous. The future implications of this observation are not known and will need to be explored in future long-term studies that follow pediatric patients with achondroplasia through adulthood.

  3. [CORRELATION OF LUMBAR FACET JOINT DEGENERATION AND SPINE-PELVIC SAGITTAL BALANCE].

    PubMed

    Lo, Xin; Zhang, Bin; Liu, Yuan; Dai, Min

    2015-08-01

    To investigate the relationship between lumbar facet joint degeneration of each segment and spine-pelvic sagittal balance parameters. A retrospective analysis was made the clinical data of 120 patients with lumbar degenerative disease, who accorded with the inclusion criteria between June and November 2014. There were 58 males and 62 females with an average age of 53 years (range, 24-77 years). The disease duration ranged from 3 to 96 months (mean, 6.6 months). Affected segments included L3,4 in 32 cases, L4,5 in 47 cases, and L5, S1 in 52 cases. The CT and X-ray films of the lumbar vertebrae were taken. The facet joint degeneration was graded based on the grading system of Pathria. The spine-pelvic sagittal balance parameters were measured, including lumbar lordosis (LL), upper lumbar lordosis (ULL), lower lumbar lordosis (LLL), pelvic incidence (PI), pelvic tilt (PT), and sacral slope (SS). According to normal range of PI, the patients were divided into 3 groups: group A (PI was less than normal range), group B (PI was within normal range), and group C (PI was more than normal range). The facet joint degeneration was compared; according to the facet joint degeneration degree, the patients were divided into group N (mild degeneration group) and group M (serious degeneration group) to observe the relationship of lumbar facet joint degeneration of each segment and spine-pelvic sagittal balance parameters. At L4,5 and L5, S1, facet joint degeneration showed significant difference among groups A, B, and C (P < 0.05), more serious facet joint degeneration was observed in group C; no significant difference was found in facet joint degeneration at L3,4 (P > 0.05). There was no significant difference in the other spine-pelvic sagittal balance parameters between groups N and M at each segment (P > 0.05) except for PT (P < 0.05). PI of more than normal range may lead to or aggravate lumbar facet joint degeneration at L4,5 and L5, Si; PT and PI are significantly associated

  4. Achieving biodiversity benefits with offsets: Research gaps, challenges, and needs.

    PubMed

    Gelcich, Stefan; Vargas, Camila; Carreras, Maria Jose; Castilla, Juan Carlos; Donlan, C Josh

    2017-03-01

    Biodiversity offsets are becoming increasingly common across a portfolio of settings: national policy, voluntary programs, international lending, and corporate business structures. Given the diversity of ecological, political, and socio-economic systems where offsets may be applied, place-based information is likely to be most useful in designing and implementing offset programs, along with guiding principles that assure best practice. We reviewed the research on biodiversity offsets to explore gaps and needs. While the peer-reviewed literature on offsets is growing rapidly, it is heavily dominated by ecological theory, wetland ecosystems, and U.S.-based research. Given that majority of offset policies and programs are occurring in middle- and low-income countries, the research gaps we identified present a number of risks. They also present an opportunity to create regionally based learning platforms focused on pilot projects and institutional capacity building. Scientific research should diversify, both topically and geographically, in order to support the successful design, implementation, and monitoring of biodiversity offset programs.

  5. An intercomparison of the thermal offset for different pyranometers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sanchez, G.; Cancillo, M. L.; Serrano, A.

    2016-07-01

    An unprecedented intensive intercomparison campaign focused on the experimental measurement of the thermal offset of pyranometers has been conducted at Badajoz (Spain) with the participation of three main manufacturers. The purpose of this study is to compare the thermal offset of six commercially available pyranometers, being some of them widely used and others recently commercialized. In this campaign, the capping methodology has been used to experimentally measure the daytime thermal offset of the pyranometers. Thus, a short but intense campaign has been conducted in two selected summer days under clear-sky conditions, covering a large range of solar zenith angle, irradiance, and temperature. Along the campaign, a total of 305 capping events have been performed, 61 for each pyranometer. The daytime thermal offset obtained for different pyranometers ranges between 0 and -16.8 W/m2 depending on the environmental conditions, being sometimes notably higher than values estimated indoors by manufacturers. The thermal offset absolute value of all instruments shows a diurnal cycle, increasing from sunrise to central hours of the day and decreasing from midafternoon to sunset. The analysis demonstrates that thermal offset is notably higher and more variable during daytime than during nighttime, requiring specific daytime measurements. Main results emphasize the key role played by wind speed in modulating the thermal offset.

  6. 20 CFR 416.585 - Suspension of offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 20 Employees' Benefits 2 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Suspension of offset. 416.585 Section 416.585 Employees' Benefits SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME FOR THE AGED, BLIND, AND DISABLED Payment of Benefits, Overpayments, and Underpayments § 416.585 Suspension of offset. If, within 60...

  7. Computer guided restoration of joint line and femoral offset in cruciate substituting total knee arthroplasty.

    PubMed

    Shetty, Gautam M; Mullaji, Arun; Bhayde, Sagar

    2012-10-01

    This prospective study aimed to evaluate radiographically, change in joint line and femoral condylar offset with the optimized gap balancing technique in computer-assisted, primary, cruciate-substituting total knee arthroplasties (TKAs). One hundred and twenty-nine consecutive computer-assisted TKAs were evaluated radiographically using pre- and postoperative full-length standing hip-to-ankle, antero-posterior and lateral radiographs to assess change in knee deformity, joint line height and posterior condylar offset. In 49% of knees, there was a net decrease (mean 2.2mm, range 0.2-8.4mm) in joint line height postoperatively whereas 46.5% of knees had a net increase in joint line height (mean 2.5mm, range 0.2-11.2mm). In 93% of the knees, joint line was restored to within ± 5 mm of preoperative values. In 53% of knees, there was a net increase (mean 2.9 mm, range 0.2-12 mm) in posterior offset postoperatively whereas 40% of knees had a net decrease in posterior offset (mean 4.2mm, range 0.6-20mm). In 82% of knees, the posterior offset was restored within ± 5 mm of preoperative values. Based on radiographic evaluation in extension and at 30° flexion, the current study clearly demonstrates that joint line and posterior femoral condylar offset can be restored in the majority of computer-assisted, cruciate-substituting TKAs to within 5mm of their preoperative value. The optimized gap balancing feature of the computer software allows the surgeon to simulate the effect of simultaneously adjusting femoral component size, position and distal femoral resection level on joint line and posterior femoral offset. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  8. The Roles of Forest Biomass Carbon Sinks in Offsetting Anthropogenic Emissions in China

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ju, W.; Zhang, C.

    2016-12-01

    Forests play a critical role in mitigating climate change because of their high carbon storage and productivity. China has experienced a pronounced increase in forest area resulting from afforestation and reforestation activities since the 1970s. Meanwhile, anthropogenic carbon emission also increased very quickly owing to fast economic development. This study was devoted to assess the roles of forest biomass carbon sinks in offsetting anthropogenic emissions in China for the period from 2000 to 2012. Forest biomass carbon sinks of China's forests were calculated at provincial levels based on eight national forest inventory datasets from 1973 to 2013. The anthropogenic carbon emissions of individual provinces were estimated for different sectors over the period from 2000 to 2012, including industrial, transportation, and other energy consumption and industrial processes. The national forest biomass carbon sinks increased from 25.0 to 166.5 Tg C yr-1 between 1973 and 2008, and then decreased to 130.9 Tg C yr-1 for the period of 2009-2013 because the increases in forest area and biomass carbon density became slower. About 7% and 93% of this sink reduction occurred in planted and natural forests. The carbon sinks for young, middle-aged and premature forests decreased by 27.3, 27.0, and 7.6 Tg C yr-1, respectively. 42% of this decrease was offset by mature and overmature forests. During 2009-2013, forest biomass carbon sinks decreased in all regions but the north and northwest regions. The drivers for changes of forest biomass sinks differ spatially. The average national total anthropogenic carbon emissions were 1107.2 Tg C yr-1 , 1876.7 Tg C yr-1 and 2670 Tg C yr-1 over the periods from 2000 to 2003, 2004 to 2008, 2009 to 2012, respectively. The forest biomass carbon sinks approximately offset 14.6%, 8.9%, and 4.9% of these emissions. The declined roles of forest biomass carbon sinks in offsetting anthropogenic carbon emissions were mainly caused by large increase of

  9. Biodiversity Offsets: Two New Zealand Case Studies and an Assessment Framework

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Norton, David A.

    2009-04-01

    Biodiversity offsets are increasingly being used for securing biodiversity conservation outcomes as part of sustainable economic development to compensate for the residual unavoidable impacts of projects. Two recent New Zealand examples of biodiversity offsets are reviewed—while both are positive for biodiversity conservation, the process by which they were developed and approved was based more on the precautionary principal than on any formal framework. Based on this review and the broader offset literature, an environmental framework for developing and approving biodiversity offsets, comprising six principles, is outlined: (1) biodiversity offsets should only be used as part of an hierarchy of actions that first seeks to avoid impacts and then minimizes the impacts that do occur; (2) a guarantee is provided that the offset proposed will occur; (3) biodiversity offsets are inappropriate for certain ecosystem (or habitat) types because of their rarity or the presence of threatened species within them; (4) offsets most often involve the creation of new habitat, but can include protection of existing habitat where there is currently no protection; (5) a clear currency is required that allows transparent quantification of values to be lost and gained in order to ensure ecological equivalency between cleared and offset areas; (6) offsets must take into account both the uncertainty involved in obtaining the desired outcome for the offset area and the time-lag that is involved in reaching that point.

  10. 39 CFR 551.8 - Cost offset policy.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... semipostal stamps; (5) Costs of stamp sales (including employee salaries and benefits); (6) Costs associated... 39 Postal Service 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Cost offset policy. 551.8 Section 551.8 Postal Service UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE POSTAGE PROGRAMS SEMIPOSTAL STAMP PROGRAM § 551.8 Cost offset policy...

  11. Carbon Offsets | Climate Neutral Research Campuses | NREL

    Science.gov Websites

    offsets may fit into climate action plans for your research campus. Options Considerations Sample Project United States. Instead, several organizations offer certification, so the buyer must carefully research a seller's claims for carbon reduction. Today, carbon offsets are widely available. For example, the Chicago

  12. Management options of non-syndromic sagittal craniosynostosis.

    PubMed

    Lee, Bryan S; Hwang, Lee S; Doumit, Gaby D; Wooley, Joseph; Papay, Francis A; Luciano, Mark G; Recinos, Violette M

    2017-05-01

    There have been various effective surgical procedures for the treatment of non-syndromic sagittal craniosynostosis, but no definitive guidelines for management have been established. We conducted a study to elucidate the current state of practice and establish a warranted standard of care. An Internet-based study was sent to 180 pediatric neurosurgeons across the country and 102 craniofacial plastic surgeons in fourteen different countries, to collect data for primary indication for surgical management, preference for timing and choice of surgery, and pre-, peri-, and post-operative management options. The overall response rate from both groups was 32% (n=90/284). Skull deformity was the primary indication for surgical treatment in patients without signs of hydrocephalus for both neurosurgeons and craniofacial surgeons (80% and 63%, respectively). Open surgical management was most commonly performed at six months of age by neurosurgeons (46%) and also by craniofacial surgeons (35%). Open surgical approach was favored for patients younger than four months of age by neurosurgeons (50%), but endoscopic approach was favored by craniofacial surgeons (35%). When performing an open surgical intervention, most neurosurgeons preferred pi or reversed pi procedure (27%), whereas total cranial vault remodeling was the most commonly performed procedure by craniofacial surgeons (37%). The data demonstrated a discrepancy in the treatment options for non-syndromic sagittal craniosynostosis. By conducting/comparing a wide survey to collect consolidative data from both groups of pediatric neurosurgeons and craniofacial plastic surgeons, we can attempt to facilitate the establishment of standard of care. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  13. Chromosomal Gains at 9q Characterize Enteropathy-Type T-Cell Lymphoma

    PubMed Central

    Zettl, Andreas; Ott, German; Makulik, Angela; Katzenberger, Tiemo; Starostik, Petr; Eichler, Thorsten; Puppe, Bernhard; Bentz, Martin; Müller-Hermelink, Hans Konrad; Chott, Andreas

    2002-01-01

    Genetic alterations in enteropathy-type T-cell lymphoma (ETL) are unknown so far. In this series, 38 cases of ETL were analyzed by comparative genomic hybridization (CGH). CGH revealed chromosomal imbalances in 87% of cases analyzed, with recurrent gains of genetic material involving chromosomes 9q (in 58% of cases), 7q (24%), 5q (18%), and 1q (16%). Recurrent losses of genetic material occurred on chromosomes 8p and 13q (24% each), and 9p (18%). In this first systematic genetic study on ETL, chromosomal gains on 9q (minimal overlapping region 9q33-q34) were found to be highly characteristic of ETL. Fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis on four cases of ETL, using a probe for 9q34, indicated frequent and multiple gains of chromosomal material at 9q34 (up to nine signals per case). Among 16 patients with ETL who survived initial disease presentation, patients with more than three chromosomal gains or losses (n = 11) followed a worse clinical course than those with three or less imbalances (n = 5). The observation of similar genetic alterations in ETL and in primary gastric (n = 4) and colonic (n = 1) T-cell lymphoma, not otherwise specified, is suggestive of a genetic relationship of gastrointestinal T-cell lymphomas at either localization. PMID:12414511

  14. 45 CFR 1179.9 - Refunds.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 3 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Refunds. 1179.9 Section 1179.9 Public Welfare Regulations Relating to Public Welfare (Continued) NATIONAL FOUNDATION ON THE ARTS AND THE HUMANITIES NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE HUMANITIES SALARY OFFSET § 1179.9 Refunds. (a) The National Endowment for the Humanities...

  15. 45 CFR 1179.9 - Refunds.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 3 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Refunds. 1179.9 Section 1179.9 Public Welfare Regulations Relating to Public Welfare (Continued) NATIONAL FOUNDATION ON THE ARTS AND THE HUMANITIES NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE HUMANITIES SALARY OFFSET § 1179.9 Refunds. (a) The National Endowment for the Humanities...

  16. 36 CFR 1011.10 - How will the Presidio Trust use administrative offset (offset of non-tax federal payments) to...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false How will the Presidio Trust....10 Parks, Forests, and Public Property PRESIDIO TRUST DEBT COLLECTION Procedures To Collect Presidio Trust Debts § 1011.10 How will the Presidio Trust use administrative offset (offset of non-tax federal...

  17. Validation, repeatability and reproducibility of a noninvasive instrument for measuring thoracic and lumbar curvature of the spine in the sagittal plane.

    PubMed

    Chaise, Fabiana O; Candotti, Cláudia T; Torre, Marcelo L; Furlanetto, Tássia S; Pelinson, Patricia P T; Loss, Jefferson F

    2011-01-01

    The need for early identification of postural abnormalities without exposing patients to constant radiation has stimulated the development of instruments aiming to measure the spinal curvatures. To verify the validity, repeatability and reproducibility of angular measures of sagittal curvatures of the spine obtained using an adapted arcometer, by comparing them with Cobb angles of the respective curvatures obtained by using X-rays. 52 participants were submitted to two procedures designed to evaluate the thoracic and lumbar curvatures: (1) X-ray examination from which the Cobb angles (CA) of both curvatures were obtained, and (2) measuring the angles with the arcometer (AA). Two evaluators collected the data using the arcometer, with the rods placed at T1, T12, L1 and L5 spinous processes levels in a way as to permit linear measurements which, with aid of trigonometry, supplied the AA. There was a very strong and significant correlation between AA and CA (r=0.94; p<0.01), with no-significant difference (p=0.32), for the thoracic curvature. There was a strong and significant correlation for the lumbar curvature (r=0.71; p<0.01) between AA and CA, with no-significant difference (p=0.30). There is a very strong correlation between intra-evaluator and inter-evaluator AA. It was possible to quantify reliably the thoracic and lumbar curvatures with the arcometer and it can thus be considered valid and reliable and for use in evaluating spinal curvatures in the sagittal plane.

  18. Fracture of fusion mass after hardware removal in patients with high sagittal imbalance.

    PubMed

    Sedney, Cara L; Daffner, Scott D; Stefanko, Jared J; Abdelfattah, Hesham; Emery, Sanford E; France, John C

    2016-04-01

    As spinal fusions become more common and more complex, so do the sequelae of these procedures, some of which remain poorly understood. The authors report on a series of patients who underwent removal of hardware after CT-proven solid fusion, confirmed by intraoperative findings. These patients later developed a spontaneous fracture of the fusion mass that was not associated with trauma. A series of such patients has not previously been described in the literature. An unfunded, retrospective review of the surgical logs of 3 fellowship-trained spine surgeons yielded 7 patients who suffered a fracture of a fusion mass after hardware removal. Adult patients from the West Virginia University Department of Orthopaedics who underwent hardware removal in the setting of adjacent-segment disease (ASD), and subsequently experienced fracture of the fusion mass through the uninstrumented segment, were studied. The medical records and radiological studies of these patients were examined for patient demographics and comorbidities, initial indication for surgery, total number of surgeries, timeline of fracture occurrence, risk factors for fracture, as well as sagittal imbalance. All 7 patients underwent hardware removal in conjunction with an extension of fusion for ASD. All had CT-proven solid fusion of their previously fused segments, which was confirmed intraoperatively. All patients had previously undergone multiple operations for a variety of indications, 4 patients were smokers, and 3 patients had osteoporosis. Spontaneous fracture of the fusion mass occurred in all patients and was not due to trauma. These fractures occurred 4 months to 4 years after hardware removal. All patients had significant sagittal imbalance of 13-15 cm. The fracture level was L-5 in 6 of the 7 patients, which was the first uninstrumented level caudal to the newly placed hardware in all 6 of these patients. Six patients underwent surgery due to this fracture. The authors present a case series of 7

  19. Reproducibility of sagittal radiographic parameters in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis-a guide to reference values using serial imaging.

    PubMed

    Hey, Hwee Weng Dennis; Wong, Gordon Chengyuan; Chan, Chloe Xiaoyun; Lau, Leok-Lim; Kumar, Naresh; Thambiah, Joseph Shantakumar; Ruiz, John Nathaniel; Liu, Ka-Po Gabriel; Wong, Hee-Kit

    2017-06-01

    Knowledge of sagittal radiographic parameters in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients has not yet caught up with our understanding of their roles in patients with adult spinal deformity. It is likely that more emphasis will be placed in restoring sagittal parameters for AIS patients in the future. Therefore, we need to understand how these parameters may vary in AIS to facilitate management plans. This study aimed to determine the reproducibility of sagittal spinal parameters on lateral film radiographs in patients with AIS. This was a retrospective, comparative study conducted in a tertiary health-care institution from January 2013 to February 2016 (3-year period). All AIS patients who underwent deformity correction surgery from January 2013 to February 2016 and had two preoperative serial lateral radiographs taken within the time period of a month were included in the study. Radiographic sagittal spinal parameters including sagittal vertical axis (SVA), cervical lordosis (CL), thoracic kyphosis (TK), thoracolumbar alignment (TL), lumbar lordosis (LL); standard spinopelvic measurements such as pelvic incidence (PI), pelvic tilt (PT), sacral slope (SS); as well as end and apical vertebrae of cervical, thoracic, and lumbar curves were the outcome measures. All patient data were pooled from electronic medical records, and X-ray images were retrieved from Centricity Enterprise Web. Averaged X-ray measurements by two independent assessors were analyzed by comparing two radiographs of the same patients performed within a 1-month time period. Chi-squared and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used for categorical and continuous variables. The study cohort comprised 138 patients, 28 men and 110 women, with a mean age of 15 years (range 11-20). Between the two lateral X-rays, there was a mean difference of 0.79 cm in SVA (p<.001), 0.70° in LL (p=.033), and 0.73° in PT (p=.010). In the combined Lenke 1 and 2 subgroup, there was a similar 0.77 cm (p=.002), 0.79

  20. Relationship between acoustic voice onset and offset and selected instances of oscillatory onset and offset in young healthy males and females

    PubMed Central

    Patel, Rita; Forrest, Karen; Hedges, Drew

    2016-01-01

    Objective To investigate the relationship between (1) onset of the acoustic signal and pre-phonatory phases associated with oscillatory onset and (2) offset of the acoustic signal with the post-phonatory events associated with oscillatory offset across vocally healthy adults. Subjects and Methods High-speed videoendoscopy was captured simultaneously with the acoustic signal during repeated production of /hi.hi.hi/ at typical pitch and loudness from 56 vocally healthy adults (age 20–42 years; 21 male, 35 female). The relationship between the acoustic sound pressure signal and oscillatory onset /offset events from the glottal area waveforms (GAW), were statistically investigated using a multivariate linear regression analysis. Results The onset of the acoustic signal (X1a) is a significant predictor of the onset of first oscillations (X1g) and onset of sustained oscillations (X2g). X1a as well as gender are significant predictors of the first instance of medial contact (X1.5g). The offset of the acoustic signal (X2a) is a significant predictor of the first instance of oscillatory offset (X3g), first instance of incomplete glottal closure (X3.5g), and cessation of vocal fold motion (X4g). Conclusions The acoustic signal onset is closely related to the first medial contact of the vocal folds but the latency between these events is longer for females compared to males. The offset of the acoustic signal occurs immediately after incomplete glottal adduction. The emerging normative group latencies between the onset/offset of the acoustic and the GAW from this study appear promising for future investigations. PMID:27769696

  1. 26 CFR 1.1291-9T - Deemed dividend election (temporary).

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... TAX (CONTINUED) INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED) Special Rules for Determining Capital Gains and Losses § 1... shareholder as defined in § 1.1291-1T(b)(7) or an indirect shareholder as defined in § 1.1291-1T(b)(8). (k) Effective/applicability date—(1) [Reserved] For further guidance see § 1.1291-9(k)(1). (2) [Reserved] For...

  2. Metacarpal geometry changes during Thoroughbred race training are compatible with sagittal-plane cantilever bending.

    PubMed

    Merritt, J S; Davies, H M S

    2010-11-01

    Bending of the equine metacarpal bones during locomotion is poorly understood. Cantilever bending, in particular, may influence the loading of the metacarpal bones and surrounding structures in unique ways. We hypothesised that increased amounts of sagittal-plane cantilever bending may govern changes to the shape of the metacarpal bones of Thoroughbred racehorses during training. We hypothesised that this type of bending would require a linear change to occur in the combined second moment of area of the bones for sagittal-plane bending (I) during race training. Six Thoroughbred racehorses were used, who had all completed at least 4 years of race training at a commercial stable. The approximate change in I that had occurred during race training was computed from radiographic measurements at the start and end of training using a simple model of bone shape. A significant (P < 0.001), approximately linear pattern of change in I was observed in each horse, with the maximum change occurring proximally and the minimum change occurring distally. The pattern of change in I was compatible with the hypothesis that sagittal-plane cantilever bending governed changes to the shape of the metacarpal bones during race training. © 2010 EVJ Ltd.

  3. [COMPARISON OF EFFECTIVENESS AND CHANGE OF SAGITTAL SPINO-PELVIC PARAMETERS BETWEEN MINIMALLY INVASIVE TRANSFORAMINAL AND CONVENTIONAL OPEN POSTERIOR LUMBAR INTERBODY FUSIONS IN TREATMENT OF LOW-DEGREE ISTHMIC LUMBAR SPONDYLOLISTHESIS].

    PubMed

    Sun, Xin; Zeng, Rong; Li, Guangsheng; Wei, Bo; Hu, Zibing; Lin, Hao; Chen, Guanghua; Chen, Siyuan; Sun, Jiecong

    2015-12-01

    To compare the effectiveness and changes of sagittal spino-pelvic parameters between minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion and conventional open posterior lumbar interbody fusion in treatment of the low-degree isthmic lumbar spondylolisthesis. Between May 2012 and May 2013, 86 patients with single segmental isthmic lumbar spondylolisthesis (Meyerding degree I or II) were treated by minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (minimally invasive group) in 39 cases, and by open posterior lumbar interbody fusion in 47 cases (open group). There was no significant difference in gender, age, disease duration, degree of lumbar spondylolisthesis, preoperative visual analogue scale (VAS) score, and Oswestry disability index (ODI) between 2 groups (P>0.05). The following sagittal spino-pelvic parameters were compared between 2 groups before and after operation: the percentage of slipping (PS), intervertebral height, angle of slip (AS), thoracolumbar junction (TLJ), thoracic kyphosis (TK), lumbar lordosis (LL), sagittal vertical axis (SVA), spino-sacral angle (SSA), sacral slope (SS), pelvic tilt (PT), and pelvic incidence (PI). Pearson correlation analysis of the changes between pre- and post-operation was done. Primary healing of incision was obtained in all patients of 2 groups. The postoperative hospital stay of minimally invasive group [(5.1 ± 1.6) days] was significantly shorter than that of open group [(7.2 ± 2.1) days] (t = 2.593, P = 0.017). The patients were followed up 11-20 months (mean, 15 months). The reduction rate was 68.53% ± 20.52% in minimally invasive group, and was 64.21% ± 30.21% in open group, showing no significant difference (t = 0.725, P = 0.093). The back and leg pain VAS scores, and ODI at 3 months after operation were significantly reduced when compared with preoperative ones (P < 0.05), but no significant difference was found between 2 groups (P > 0.05). The postoperative other sagittal spino

  4. 45 CFR 607.9 - Refunds.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 3 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Refunds. 607.9 Section 607.9 Public Welfare Regulations Relating to Public Welfare (Continued) NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION SALARY OFFSET § 607.9 Refunds. (a) NSF will promptly refund to an employee any amounts deducted to satisfy debts owed to NSF when...

  5. 45 CFR 607.9 - Refunds.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 3 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Refunds. 607.9 Section 607.9 Public Welfare Regulations Relating to Public Welfare (Continued) NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION SALARY OFFSET § 607.9 Refunds. (a) NSF will promptly refund to an employee any amounts deducted to satisfy debts owed to NSF when...

  6. 45 CFR 607.9 - Refunds.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 3 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Refunds. 607.9 Section 607.9 Public Welfare Regulations Relating to Public Welfare (Continued) NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION SALARY OFFSET § 607.9 Refunds. (a) NSF will promptly refund to an employee any amounts deducted to satisfy debts owed to NSF when...

  7. 45 CFR 607.9 - Refunds.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 3 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Refunds. 607.9 Section 607.9 Public Welfare Regulations Relating to Public Welfare (Continued) NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION SALARY OFFSET § 607.9 Refunds. (a) NSF will promptly refund to an employee any amounts deducted to satisfy debts owed to NSF when...

  8. Repression of Ccr9 transcription in mouse T lymphocyte progenitors by the Notch signaling pathway.

    PubMed

    Krishnamoorthy, Veena; Carr, Tiffany; de Pooter, Renee F; Emanuelle, Akinola Olumide; Akinola, Emanuelle Olumide; Gounari, Fotini; Kee, Barbara L

    2015-04-01

    The chemokine receptor CCR9 controls the immigration of multipotent hematopoietic progenitor cells into the thymus to sustain T cell development. Postimmigration, thymocytes downregulate CCR9 and migrate toward the subcapsular zone where they recombine their TCR β-chain and γ-chain gene loci. CCR9 is subsequently upregulated and participates in the localization of thymocytes during their selection for self-tolerant receptor specificities. Although the dynamic regulation of CCR9 is essential for early T cell development, the mechanisms controlling CCR9 expression have not been determined. In this article, we show that key regulators of T cell development, Notch1 and the E protein transcription factors E2A and HEB, coordinately control the expression of Ccr9. E2A and HEB bind at two putative enhancers upstream of Ccr9 and positively regulate CCR9 expression at multiple stages of T cell development. In contrast, the canonical Notch signaling pathway prevents the recruitment of p300 to the putative Ccr9 enhancers, resulting in decreased acetylation of histone H3 and a failure to recruit RNA polymerase II to the Ccr9 promoter. Although Notch signaling modestly modulates the binding of E proteins to one of the two Ccr9 enhancers, we found that Notch signaling represses Ccr9 in T cell lymphoma lines in which Ccr9 transcription is independent of E protein function. Our data support the hypothesis that activation of Notch1 has a dominant-negative effect on Ccr9 transcription and that Notch1 and E proteins control the dynamic expression of Ccr9 during T cell development. Copyright © 2015 by The American Association of Immunologists, Inc.

  9. Formation of Offset and Dual Active Galactic Nuclei

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Barrows, Scott; Comerford, Julia M.; Greene, Jenny E.

    2018-06-01

    Galaxy mergers are effective mechanisms for triggering accretion onto supermassive black holes (SMBHs) and thereby powering active galactic nuclei (AGN). In the merger scenario, when the SMBH from only one galaxy is accreting we observe a spatially offset AGN, and when the SMBHs from both galaxies are accreting we observe a dual AGN. Understanding the merger conditions that lead to the formation of offset AGN versus dual AGN is fundamental to informing models of hierarchical SMBH growth and the physics leading to the accretion of matter onto SMBHs. However, while the role of galaxy mergers for AGN triggering has been well-studied, the efficiency with which these events trigger offset AGN versus dual AGN is currently unclear. One reason for this gap in knowledge can be attributed to the observational difficulties in distinguishing between offset and dual AGN since doing so requires high spatial resolution, especially in the small separation regime where merger-driven AGN triggering is most likely to occur. To overcome this hurdle, we have utilized the spatial resolution of the Chandra X-ray Observatory to develop a unique sample of AGN hosted by late-stage galaxy mergers. Moreover, we have recently acquired Hubble Space Telescope imaging for a subset of these systems to examine the role that their merger morphologies play in SMBH growth and the formation of offset and dual AGN. We find that offset AGN are predominately found in minor mergers, whereas dual AGN are usually hosted by major mergers and galaxies with large morphological asymmetries. Furthermore, in both offset and dual AGN, the rate of SMBH growth increases toward more major mergers and larger morphological asymmetries. These results are in agreement with numerical simulations predicting that merger morphology is a relevant parameter governing SMBH merger-driven growth, and these results are the first to observationally confirm these trends at small pair separations.

  10. 19 CFR 201.208 - Tax refund offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 19 Customs Duties 3 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Tax refund offset. 201.208 Section 201.208 Customs Duties UNITED STATES INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION GENERAL RULES OF GENERAL APPLICATION Debt Collection § 201.208 Tax refund offset. (a) Scope. The provisions of 26 U.S.C. 6402(d) and 31 U.S.C. 3720A...

  11. 19 CFR 201.208 - Tax refund offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... 19 Customs Duties 3 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Tax refund offset. 201.208 Section 201.208 Customs Duties UNITED STATES INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION GENERAL RULES OF GENERAL APPLICATION Debt Collection § 201.208 Tax refund offset. (a) Scope. The provisions of 26 U.S.C. 6402(d) and 31 U.S.C. 3720A...

  12. 19 CFR 201.208 - Tax refund offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... 19 Customs Duties 3 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Tax refund offset. 201.208 Section 201.208 Customs Duties UNITED STATES INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION GENERAL RULES OF GENERAL APPLICATION Debt Collection § 201.208 Tax refund offset. (a) Scope. The provisions of 26 U.S.C. 6402(d) and 31 U.S.C. 3720A...

  13. 19 CFR 201.208 - Tax refund offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-04-01

    ... 19 Customs Duties 3 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Tax refund offset. 201.208 Section 201.208 Customs Duties UNITED STATES INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION GENERAL RULES OF GENERAL APPLICATION Debt Collection § 201.208 Tax refund offset. (a) Scope. The provisions of 26 U.S.C. 6402(d) and 31 U.S.C. 3720A...

  14. 19 CFR 201.208 - Tax refund offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... 19 Customs Duties 3 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Tax refund offset. 201.208 Section 201.208 Customs Duties UNITED STATES INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION GENERAL RULES OF GENERAL APPLICATION Debt Collection § 201.208 Tax refund offset. (a) Scope. The provisions of 26 U.S.C. 6402(d) and 31 U.S.C. 3720A...

  15. 5 CFR 831.1006 - Offset from disability or survivor annuity.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 5 Administrative Personnel 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Offset from disability or survivor annuity. 831.1006 Section 831.1006 Administrative Personnel OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED) CIVIL SERVICE REGULATIONS (CONTINUED) RETIREMENT CSRS Offset § 831.1006 Offset from disability or...

  16. 5 CFR 831.1006 - Offset from disability or survivor annuity.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... 5 Administrative Personnel 2 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Offset from disability or survivor annuity. 831.1006 Section 831.1006 Administrative Personnel OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED) CIVIL SERVICE REGULATIONS (CONTINUED) RETIREMENT CSRS Offset § 831.1006 Offset from disability or...

  17. Evaluation of the Transverse Displacement of the Proximal Segment After Bilateral Sagittal Split Ramus Osteotomy With Different Lingual Split Patterns and Advancement Amounts Using the Finite Element Method.

    PubMed

    Dai, Zhi; Hou, Min; Ma, Wen; Song, Da-Li; Zhang, Chun-Xiang; Zhou, Wei-Yuan

    2016-11-01

    To evaluate transverse displacement of the proximal segment after bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy (BSSO) advancement with different lingual split patterns and advancement amounts and to determine the influential factors related to mandibular width. A 3-dimensional finite element model of the mandible including the temporomandibular joint was created for a presurgical simulation and for BSSO with lingual split patterns I (T1; Hunsuck split) and II (T2; Obwegeser split). The mandible was advanced 3 mm (A3) and 8 mm (A8) and fixated with a conventional titanium plate. Ansys software was used to measure the linear distances of the interproximal segments and to analyze the transverse displacement distribution of proximal segments after applying the load of masticatory muscle force groups. After surgical simulation, T1A3, T1A8, T2A3, and T2A8 showed increased transverse widths (mean, 2.99, 4.70, 2.36, and 4.42 mm, respectively). For transverse augmentation, there was a statistically significant difference between the 2 different mandibular advancement amounts in T1 and in T2 (P ≤ .000), but no significant differences was observed between T1 and T2 (P ≥ .058). The maximum transverse displacement distribution in the proximal segment was measured around the gonial area, and the early contact area was found near the border between the horizontal and sagittal osteotomy lines. Transverse displacements of proximal segments occur after BSSO advancement with T1 and T2 and transverse augmentation has statistically meaningful effects depending on the amount of advancement; however, no differences in transverse augmentation between T1 and T2 were identified. The fulcrum caused by the early contact between the proximal and distal segments could be an influential factor related to mandibular width. Copyright © 2016 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  18. Optimal fusion offset in splicing photonic crystal fibers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jin, Wa; Bi, Weihong; Fu, Guangwei

    2013-08-01

    Heat transfer is very complicate in fusion splicing process of photonic crystal fibers (PCFs) due to different structures and sizes of air hole, which requires different fusion splicing power and offsets of heat source. Based on the heat transfer characteristics, this paper focus on the optimal splicing offset splicing the single mode fiber and PCFs with a CO2 laser irradiation. The theory and experiments both show that the research results can effectively calculate the optimal fusion splicing offset and guide the practical splicing between PCFs and SMFs.

  19. Offset quadrature communications with decision-feedback carrier synchronization

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Simon, M. K.; Smith, J. G.

    1974-01-01

    In order to accommodate a quadrature amplitude-shift-keyed (QASK) signal, Simon and Smith (1974) have modified the decision-feedback loop which tracks a quadrature phase-shift-keyed (QPSK). In the investigation reported approaches are considered to modify the loops in such a way that offset QASK signals can be tracked, giving attention to the special case of an offset QPSK. The development of the stochastic integro-differential equation of operation for a decision-feedback offset QASK loop is discussed along with the probability density function of the phase error process.

  20. Dorsal free graft urethroplasty for urethral stricture by ventral sagittal urethrotomy approach.

    PubMed

    Asopa, H S; Garg, M; Singhal, G G; Singh, L; Asopa, J; Nischal, A

    2001-11-01

    To explore the feasibility of applying a dorsal free graft to treat urethral stricture by the ventral sagittal urethrotomy approach without mobilizing the urethra. Twelve patients with long or multiple strictures of the anterior urethra were treated by a dorsal free full-thickness preputial or buccal mucosa graft. The urethra was not separated from the corporal bodies and was opened in the midline over the stricture. The floor of the urethra was incised, and an elliptical raw area was created over the tunica on which a free full-thickness graft of preputial or buccal mucosa was secured. The urethra was retubularized in one stage. After a follow-up of 8 to 40 months, one recurrence developed and required dilation. The ventral sagittal urethrotomy approach for dorsal free graft urethroplasty is not only feasible and successful, but is easy to perform.

  1. Differentiation, phenotype, and function of interleukin-17-producing human Vγ9Vδ2 T cells.

    PubMed

    Caccamo, Nadia; La Mendola, Carmela; Orlando, Valentina; Meraviglia, Serena; Todaro, Matilde; Stassi, Giorgio; Sireci, Guido; Fournié, Jean Jacques; Dieli, Francesco

    2011-07-07

    In healthy adults, the major peripheral blood γδ T-cell subset expresses the Vγ9Vδ2 TCR and displays pleiotropic features. Here we report that coculture of naive Vγ9Vδ2 T cells with phosphoantigens and a cocktail of cytokines (IL-1-β, TGF-β, IL-6, and IL-23), leads to selective expression of the transcription factor RORγt and polarization toward IL-17 production. IL-17(+) Vγ9Vδ2 T cells express the chemokine receptor CCR6 and produce IL-17 but neither IL-22 nor IFN-γ; they have a predominant terminally differentiated (CD27(-)CD45RA(+)) phenotype and express granzyme B, TRAIL, FasL, and CD161. On antigen activation, IL-17(+) Vγ9Vδ2 T cells rapidly induce CXCL8-mediated migration and phagocytosis of neutrophils and IL-17-dependent production of β-defensin by epithelial cells, indicating that they may be involved in host immune responses against infectious microorganisms. Accordingly, an increased percentage of IL-17(+) Vγ9Vδ2 lymphocytes is detected in the peripheral blood and at the site of disease in children with bacterial meningitis, and this pattern was reversed after successful antibacterial therapy. Most notably, the phenotype of IL-17(+) Vγ9Vδ2 T cells in children with meningitis matches that of in vitro differentiated IL-17(+) Vγ9Vδ2 T cells. Our findings delineate a previously unknown subset of human IL-17(+) Vγ9Vδ2 T lymphocytes implicated in the pathophysiology of inflammatory responses during bacterial infections.

  2. Mangrove and Freshwater Wetland Conservation Through Carbon Offsets: A Cost-Benefit Analysis for Establishing Environmental Policies

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Vázquez-González, César; Moreno-Casasola, Patricia; Hernández, María Elizabeth; Campos, Adolfo; Espejel, Ileana; Fermán-Almada, José Luis

    2017-02-01

    Mexico has extensive coastal wetlands (4,243,137 ha), and one of its most important sites is the Alvarado Lagoon System, located in the Papaloapan River Basin on the Gulf of Mexico. The land cover dedicated to livestock and sugarcane has increased: by 25 % in 2005 and 50 % in 2010, with a loss of wetland vegetation and the carbon that it stores. We found that the Net Present Value of mangrove carbon offsets profit is equal to 5822.71, that of broad-leaved marshes is 7958.86, cattail marshes 5250.33, and forested wetlands 8369.41 per hectare, during a 30-year-carbonoffset contract. However, the opportunity cost from conserving wetland instead of growing sugarcane is positive according to REDD+ methodology, e.g., broad-leaved marsh conservation ranged from 6.73 to 20 USD/t CO2e, that of cattail marshes from 12.20 to 32.65 USD/t CO2e, and forested wetlands from 7.15 to 20.60 USD/t CO2e, whereas the opportunity cost between conservation and livestock was negative, it means that conservation is more profitable. The cost-benefit analysis for assessing investment projects from a governmental perspective is useful to determine the viability of conserving coastal wetlands through carbon offset credits. It also shows why in some areas it is not possible to conserve ecosystems due to the opportunity cost of changing from one economic activity (livestock and sugarcane) to carbon offsets for protecting wetlands. Furthermore, it allows for a comparison of carbon markets and assessment in terms of REDD+ and its methods for determining the social cost per ton of carbon avoided.

  3. Toll like Receptor 2 engagement on CD4+ T cells promotes TH9 differentiation and function.

    PubMed

    Karim, Ahmad Faisal; Reba, Scott M; Li, Qing; Boom, W Henry; Rojas, Roxana E

    2017-09-01

    We have recently demonstrated that mycobacterial ligands engage Toll like receptor 2 (TLR2) on CD4 + T cells and up-regulate T-cell receptor (TCR) triggered Th1 responses in vitro and in vivo. To better understand the role of T-cell expressed TLR2 on CD4 + T-cell differentiation and function, we conducted a gene expression analysis of murine naïve CD4 + T-cells stimulated in the presence or absence of TLR2 co-stimulation. Unexpectedly, naïve CD4 + T-cells co-stimulated via TLR2 showed a significant up-regulation of Il9 mRNA compared to cells co-stimulated via CD28. Under TH9 differentiation, we observed up-regulation of TH9 differentiation, evidenced by increases in both percent of IL-9 secreting cells and IL-9 in culture supernatants in the presence of TLR2 agonist both in polyclonal and Ag85B cognate peptide specific stimulations. Under non-polarizing conditions, TLR2 engagement on CD4 + T-cells had minimal effect on IL-9 secretion and TH9 differentiation, likely due to a prominent effect of TLR2 signaling on IFN-γ secretion and TH1 differentiation. We also report that, TLR2 signaling in CD4 + T cells increased expression of transcription factors BATF and PU.1, known to positively regulate TH9 differentiation. These results reveal a novel role of T-cell expressed TLR2 in enhancing the differentiation and function of TH9 T cells. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  4. Male and female runners demonstrate different sagittal plane mechanics as a function of static hamstring flexibility.

    PubMed

    Williams, D S Blaise; Welch, Lee M

    2015-01-01

    Injuries to runners are common. However, there are many potential contributing factors to injury. While lack of flexibility alone is commonly related to injury, there are clear differences in hamstring flexibility between males and females. To compare the effect of static hamstring length on sagittal plane mechanics between male and female runners. Forty subjects (30.0±6.4 years) participated and were placed in one of 4 groups: flexible males (n=10), inflexible males (n=10), flexible females (n=10), and inflexible females (n=10). All subjects were free of injury at the time of data collection. Three-dimensional kinematics and kinetics were collected while subjects ran over ground across 2 force platforms. Sagittal plane joint angles and moments were calculated at the knee and hip and compared with a 2-way (sex X flexibility) ANOVA (α=0.05). Males exhibited greater peak knee extension moment than females (M=2.80±0.47, F=2.48±0.52 Nm/kg*m, p=0.05) and inflexible runners exhibited greater peak knee extension moment than flexible runners (In=2.83±0.56, Fl=2.44±0.51 Nm/kg*m, p=0.01). For hip flexion at initial contact, a significant interaction existed (p<0.05). Flexible females (36.7±7.4º) exhibited more hip flexion than inflexible females (27.9±4.6º, p<0.01) and flexible males (30.1±9.5º, p<0.05). No differences existed for knee angle at initial contact, peak knee angle, peak hip angle, or peak hip moment. Hamstring flexibility results in different mechanical profiles in males and females. Flexibility in the hamstrings may result in decreased moments via active or passive tension. These differences may have implications for performance and injury in flexible female runners.

  5. Male and female runners demonstrate different sagittal plane mechanics as a function of static hamstring flexibility

    PubMed Central

    Williams III, D. S. Blaise; Welch, Lee M.

    2015-01-01

    ABSTRACT Background: Injuries to runners are common. However, there are many potential contributing factors to injury. While lack of flexibility alone is commonly related to injury, there are clear differences in hamstring flexibility between males and females. Objective: To compare the effect of static hamstring length on sagittal plane mechanics between male and female runners. Method: Forty subjects (30.0±6.4 years) participated and were placed in one of 4 groups: flexible males (n=10), inflexible males (n=10), flexible females (n=10), and inflexible females (n=10). All subjects were free of injury at the time of data collection. Three-dimensional kinematics and kinetics were collected while subjects ran over ground across 2 force platforms. Sagittal plane joint angles and moments were calculated at the knee and hip and compared with a 2-way (sex X flexibility) ANOVA (α=0.05). Results: Males exhibited greater peak knee extension moment than females (M=2.80±0.47, F=2.48±0.52 Nm/kg*m, p=0.05) and inflexible runners exhibited greater peak knee extension moment than flexible runners (In=2.83±0.56, Fl=2.44±0.51 Nm/kg*m, p=0.01). For hip flexion at initial contact, a significant interaction existed (p<0.05). Flexible females (36.7±7.4º) exhibited more hip flexion than inflexible females (27.9±4.6º, p<0.01) and flexible males (30.1±9.5º, p<0.05). No differences existed for knee angle at initial contact, peak knee angle, peak hip angle, or peak hip moment. Conclusion: Hamstring flexibility results in different mechanical profiles in males and females. Flexibility in the hamstrings may result in decreased moments via active or passive tension. These differences may have implications for performance and injury in flexible female runners. PMID:26537812

  6. Type 1 Responses of Human Vγ9Vδ2 T Cells to Influenza A Viruses▿

    PubMed Central

    Qin, Gang; Liu, Yinping; Zheng, Jian; Ng, Iris H. Y.; Xiang, Zheng; Lam, Kwok-Tai; Mao, Huawei; Li, Hong; Peiris, J. S. Malik; Lau, Yu-Lung; Tu, Wenwei

    2011-01-01

    γδ T cells are essential constituents of antimicrobial and antitumor defenses. We have recently reported that phosphoantigen isopentenyl pyrophosphate (IPP)-expanded human Vγ9Vδ2 T cells participated in anti-influenza virus immunity by efficiently killing both human and avian influenza virus-infected monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs) in vitro. However, little is known about the noncytolytic responses and trafficking program of γδ T cells to influenza virus. In this study, we found that Vγ9Vδ2 T cells expressed both type 1 cytokines and chemokine receptors during influenza virus infection, and IPP-expanded cells had a higher capacity to produce gamma interferon (IFN-γ). Besides their potent cytolytic activity against pandemic H1N1 virus-infected cells, IPP-activated γδ T cells also had noncytolytic inhibitory effects on seasonal and pandemic H1N1 viruses via IFN-γ but had no such effects on avian H5N1 or H9N2 virus. Avian H5N1 and H9N2 viruses induced significantly higher CCL3, CCL4, and CCL5 production in Vγ9Vδ2 T cells than human seasonal H1N1 virus. CCR5 mediated the migration of Vγ9Vδ2 T cells toward influenza virus-infected cells. Our findings suggest a novel therapeutic strategy of using phosphoantigens to boost the antiviral activities of human Vγ9Vδ2 T cells against influenza virus infection. PMID:21752902

  7. [Evaluation of the clinical results of non-surgical treatment for pediatric sagittal fracture of mandibular condyle].

    PubMed

    Liu, Chang-kui; Tan, Xin-ying; Xu, Juan; Liu, Hua-wei; Liu, San-xia; Hu, Min

    2013-11-01

    To investigate the clinical results of occlusal splint in the treatment of sagittal fracture of mandibular condyle (SFMC) in children. Thirty-nine patients (48 condyles)aged 3-8 years with sagittal fracture of mandibular condyle were included in this study. All the patients were treated by occlusal splint.Slight open occlusion was maintained by occlusal splint for 3-6 months. Clinical and radiological examination was performed six mouths and every year after treatment. Good mandibular function was observed in 39 patients. Maximal mouth opening over 35 mm was achieved at 6 months. But 11 of the 39 patients presented with deviation on mouth opening at 6 months. The radiology showed an complete remodeling in 32 condyles (28 patients) and partial remodeling in 16 condyles (11 patients). Poor remodelling was not observed in any patients. Good clinical results can be obtained by using occlusal splint in the treatment of pediatric sagittal fracture of mandibular condyle.

  8. 5 CFR 1215.7 - Coordinating offset with another Federal agency.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 5 Administrative Personnel 3 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Coordinating offset with another Federal agency. 1215.7 Section 1215.7 Administrative Personnel MERIT SYSTEMS PROTECTION BOARD ORGANIZATION AND PROCEDURES DEBT MANAGEMENT Salary Offset § 1215.7 Coordinating offset with another Federal agency. (a) The...

  9. Net present biodiversity value and the design of biodiversity offsets.

    PubMed

    Overton, Jacob McC; Stephens, R T Theo; Ferrier, Simon

    2013-02-01

    There is an urgent need to develop sound theory and practice for biodiversity offsets to provide a better basis for offset multipliers, to improve accounting for time delays in offset repayments, and to develop a common framework for evaluating in-kind and out-of-kind offsets. Here, we apply concepts and measures from systematic conservation planning and financial accounting to provide a basis for determining equity across type (of biodiversity), space, and time. We introduce net present biodiversity value (NPBV) as a theoretical and practical measure for defining the offset required to achieve no-net-loss. For evaluating equity in type and space we use measures of biodiversity value from systematic conservation planning. Time discount rates are used to address risk of non-repayment, and loss of utility. We illustrate these concepts and measures with two examples of biodiversity impact-offset transactions. Considerable further work is required to understand the characteristics of these approaches.

  10. Skeletal and dental changes in the sagittal, vertical, and transverse dimensions after rapid palatal expansion.

    PubMed

    Chung, Chun-Hsi; Font, Blanca

    2004-11-01

    The purpose of this study was to examine the maxillary and mandibular responses to rapid palatal expansion (RPE) in all 3 dimensions. Twenty children (average age, 11.7 years) who required RPE treatment were included in this study. Pre- (T1) and post-RPE (T2) lateral and posteroanterior (PA) cephalograms and study models were taken for all patients. For each patient, lateral and PA cephalograms at T1 and T2 were traced, and the sagittal, vertical, and transverse measurements were made. In addition, on the pre- and postexpansion models, the widths between the first premolars, the first molars, and the two acrylic halves of the Haas-type expander were measured. Results showed that from T1 to T2, the mean SNA increased 0.35 degrees (P < .05) and ANB increased 1.00 degrees (P < .05). Both the ANS and PNS moved downward (1.30 mm and 1.43 mm, respectively, P < .05), and the mandibular plane angle (MP-SN) increased 1.72 degrees (P < .05). The maxillary and mandibular incisors did not change significantly after RPE. After RPE, the mean increase of maxillary interpremolar width, maxillary intermolar width, maxillary width (J-J), nasal width, and interorbital width were found to be 110.7%, 104.5%, 30.1%, 23.1%, and 3.3% of the screw expansion, respectively. After RPE treatment in children, the maxilla displaced slightly forward and downward (P < .05); the mandible rotated downward and backward, and the anterior facial height increased significantly (P < .05); and the widths of the maxilla and nasal cavity increased significantly (P < .05).

  11. A Study of an Effective Offsets Model for Korea

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2013-12-01

    offsets since 1983 to develop a defense industry and to improve its defense science technology. Since the establishment of the Korean Defense...conducts research and suggests a new Korean offsets model to improve Korea’s defense science technology and promote Korea’s defense industry . By...offsets since 1983 to develop a defense industry and to improve its defense science technology. Since the establishment of the Korean Defense Acquisition

  12. Applied automatic offset detection using HECTOR within EPOS-IP

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fernandes, R. M. S.; Bos, M. S.

    2016-12-01

    It is well known that offsets are present in most GNSS coordinate time series. These offsets need to be taken into account in the analysis to avoid incorrect estimation of the tectonic motions. The time of the offsets are normally determined by visual inspection of the time series but with the ever increasing amount of GNSS stations, this is becoming too time consuming and automatic offset detection algorithms are required. This is particularly true in projects like EPOS (European Plate Observing System), where the routinely analysis of thousands of daily time-series will be required. It is also planned to include stations installed for technical applications which metadata is also not always properly maintained. In this research we present an offset detection scheme that uses the Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC) to determine the most likely time of an offset. The novelty of this scheme is that it takes the temporal correlation of the noise into account. This aspect is normally ignored due to the fact that it significantly increases the computation time. However, it needs to be taken into account to ensure that the estimated BIC value is correct. We were able to create a fast algorithm by adopting the methodology implemented in HECTOR (Bos et al., 2013). We evaluate the feasibility of the approach using the core IGS network, where most of the offsets have been accurately determined, which permit to have an external evaluation of this new outlier detection approach to be included in HECTOR. We also apply the scheme to regional networks in Iberia where such offsets are often not documented properly in order to compare the normal manual approach with the new automatic approach. Finally, we also compare the optimal approach used by HECTOR with other algorithms such as MIDAS and STARS.

  13. Utp9p facilitates Msn5p-mediated nuclear reexport of retrograded tRNAs in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

    PubMed

    Eswara, Manoja B K; McGuire, Andrew T; Pierce, Jacqueline B; Mangroo, Dev

    2009-12-01

    Utp9p is a nucleolar protein that is part of a subcomplex containing several U3 snoRNA-associated proteins including Utp8p, which is a protein that shuttles aminoacyl-tRNAs from the nucleolus to the nuclear tRNA export receptors Los1p and Msn5p in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Here we show that Utp9p is also an intranuclear component of the Msn5p-mediated nuclear tRNA export pathway. Depletion of Utp9p caused nuclear accumulation of mature tRNAs derived from intron-containing precursors, but not tRNAs made from intronless pre-tRNAs. Utp9p binds tRNA directly and saturably, and copurifies with Utp8p, Gsp1p, and Msn5p, but not with Los1p or aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases. Utp9p interacts directly with Utp8p, Gsp1p, and Msn5p in vitro. Furthermore, Gsp1p forms a complex with Msn5p and Utp9p in a tRNA-dependent manner. However, Utp9p does not shuttle between the nucleus and the cytoplasm. Because tRNA splicing occurs in the cytoplasm and the spliced tRNAs are retrograded back to the nucleus, we propose that Utp9p facilitates nuclear reexport of retrograded tRNAs. Moreover, the data suggest that Utp9p together with Utp8p translocate aminoacyl-tRNAs from the nucleolus to Msn5p and assist with formation of the Msn5p-tRNA-Gsp1p-GTP export complex.

  14. Post-Traumatic Bifrontoparietal Extradural Hematoma with Superior Sagittal Sinus Detachment: A Case Report and Review of the Literature.

    PubMed

    Giannakaki, Venetia; Triantafyllou, Triantafyllos; Drossos, Dimitrios; Papapetrou, Konstantinos

    2016-09-01

    To present, to our knowledge, the first case of a single bilateral extradural hematoma due to superior sagittal sinus detachment that was treated conservatively with an excellent outcome. Bilateral extradural hematomas are a rare condition, accounting for only 2%-5% of all extradural hematomas. They can be either 2 distinct hematomas on either side or 1 single bilateral hematoma mostly due to sagittal sinus injury, with the latter being the most rare owing to the firm attachment of the sinus to its subperiosteal loggia. These hematomas usually require immediate surgical evacuation, as patients present with decreased level of consciousness, and have good postoperative outcomes. We present a bilateral extradural hematoma due to superior sagittal sinus injury, which was treated conservatively. The patient had an excellent recovery, with no residual neurological deficits and a Glasgow outcome scale of 5 on discharge. Bilateral extradural hematomas due to superior sagittal sinus injury almost always require surgical intervention. We present a patient who was treated conservatively with an excellent outcome and we also perform a review of the current literature. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  15. 12 CFR 1704.29 - Coordinating salary offset with other agencies.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 12 Banks and Banking 7 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Coordinating salary offset with other agencies... HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT OFHEO ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTIONS DEBT COLLECTION Salary Offset § 1704.29 Coordinating salary offset with other agencies. (a) Responsibility of OFHEO as the creditor agency. (1) OFHEO...

  16. Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells increase interleukin-9 production of CD4+ T cells

    PubMed Central

    Yang, Zhou Xin; Chi, Ying; Ji, Yue Ru; Wang, You Wei; Zhang, Jing; Luo, Wei Feng; Li, Li Na; Hu, Cai Dong; Zhuo, Guang Sheng; Wang, Li Fang; Han, Zhi-Bo; Han, Zhong Chao

    2017-01-01

    Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) are able to differentiate into cells of multiple lineage, and additionally act to modulate the immune response. Interleukin (IL)-9 is primarily produced by cluster of differentiation (CD)4+ T cells to regulate the immune response. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of human umbilical cord derived-MSC (UC-MSC) on IL-9 production of human CD4+ T cells. It was demonstrated that the addition of UC-MSC to the culture of CD4+ T cells significantly enhanced IL-9 production by CD4+ T cells. Transwell experiments suggested that UC-MSC promotion of IL-9 production by CD4+ T cells was dependent on cell-cell contact. Upregulated expression of CD106 was observed in UC-MSC co-cultured with CD4+ T cells, and the addition of a blocking antibody of CD106 significantly impaired the ability of UC-MSC to promote IL-9 production by CD4+ T cells. Therefore, the results of the present study demonstrated that UC-MSC promoted the generation of IL-9 producing cells, which may be mediated, in part by CD106. The findings may act to expand understanding and knowledge of the immune modulatory role of UC-MSC. PMID:29042945

  17. Transforaminal Anterior Release for the Treatment of Fixed Sagittal Imbalance and Segmental Kyphosis, Minimum 2-Year Follow-Up Study.

    PubMed

    Sweet, Fred A; Sweet, Andrea

    2015-09-01

    Retrospective review of prospectively accrued patient cohort. To report minimum 2 years' follow-up after a single-surgeon series of 47 consecutive patients in whom fixed sagittal imbalance or segmental kyphosis was treated with a novel unilateral transforaminal annular release. Fixed sagittal imbalance has been treated most recently with pedicle subtraction osteotomy with great success but is associated with significant blood loss and neurologic risk. Forty-seven consecutive patients with fixed sagittal imbalance (n = 29) or segmental kyphosis (n = 18) were treated by a single surgeon with a single-level transforaminal anterior release (TFAR) to effect an opening wedge correction. Sagittal and coronal correction was performed with in situ rod contouring. An interbody cage was captured in the disc space with rod compression. Radiographic and clinical outcome analysis was performed with a minimum 2-year follow-up (range 2-7.8 years). The average increase in lordosis was 36° (range 24°-56°) in the fixed sagittal deformity group. Coronal corrections averaged 34° (range 18°-48°). The average improvement in plumb line was 13.6 cm. There were four pseudarthroses, one at the TFAR. Average blood loss was 578 mL (range 200-1,200). One patient had a transient grade 4/5 anterior tibialis weakness. There were no vascular injuries or permanent neurologic deficits. There were significant improvements in the Oswestry Disability Index (p < .001) and Scoliosis Research Society Questionnaire scores (p = .003). Eighty-four percent of patients reported improvement in pain, self-image, and satisfaction with the procedure. TFAR is a useful procedure for correcting segmental kyphosis and fixed sagittal imbalance with relatively low blood loss and was found to be neurologically safe in this single-surgeon series. Therapeutic study, Level IV (case series, no control group). Copyright © 2015 Scoliosis Research Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  18. Ipsilateral wrist-ankle movements in the sagittal plane encoded in extrinsic reference frame.

    PubMed

    Muraoka, Tetsuro; Ishida, Yuki; Obu, Takashi; Crawshaw, Larry; Kanosue, Kazuyuki

    2013-04-01

    When performing oscillatory movements of two joints in the sagittal plane, there is a directional constraint for performing such movements. Previous studies could not distinguish whether the directional constraint reflected movement direction encoded in the extrinsic (outside the body) reference frame or in the intrinsic (the participants' torso/head) reference frame since participants performed coordinated movements in a sitting position where the torso/head was stationary relative to the external world. In order to discern the reference frame in the present study, participants performed paced oscillatory movements of the ipsilateral wrist and ankle in the sagittal plane in a standing position so that the torso/head moved relative to the external world. The coordinated movements were performed in one of two modes of coordination, moving the hand upward concomitant with either ankle plantarflexion or ankle dorsiflexion. The same directional mode relative to extrinsic space was more stable and accurate as compared with the opposite directional mode. When forearm position was changed from the pronated position to the supinated position, similar results were obtained, indicating that the results were independent of a particular coupling of muscles. These findings suggest that the directional constraint on ipsilateral joints movements in the sagittal plane reflects movement direction encoded in the extrinsic reference frame. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd and the Japan Neuroscience Society. All rights reserved.

  19. 5 CFR 1639.28 - Coordinating salary offset with other agencies.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 5 Administrative Personnel 3 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Coordinating salary offset with other... CLAIMS COLLECTION Salary Offset § 1639.28 Coordinating salary offset with other agencies. (a... employee is in the process of separating and has not received a final salary check or other final payment(s...

  20. 45 CFR 607.7 - Coordinating offset with another Federal agency.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 3 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Coordinating offset with another Federal agency. 607.7 Section 607.7 Public Welfare Regulations Relating to Public Welfare (Continued) NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION SALARY OFFSET § 607.7 Coordinating offset with another Federal agency. (a) When the NSF is the...

  1. 45 CFR 607.7 - Coordinating offset with another Federal agency.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 3 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Coordinating offset with another Federal agency. 607.7 Section 607.7 Public Welfare Regulations Relating to Public Welfare (Continued) NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION SALARY OFFSET § 607.7 Coordinating offset with another Federal agency. (a) When the NSF is the...

  2. 45 CFR 607.7 - Coordinating offset with another Federal agency.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 3 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Coordinating offset with another Federal agency. 607.7 Section 607.7 Public Welfare Regulations Relating to Public Welfare (Continued) NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION SALARY OFFSET § 607.7 Coordinating offset with another Federal agency. (a) When the NSF is the...

  3. 49 CFR 1017.10 - Procedures for administrative offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... TRANSPORTATION BOARD, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION GENERAL RULES AND REGULATIONS DEBT COLLECTION-COLLECTION BY OFFSET FROM INDEBTED GOVERNMENT AND FORMER GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES § 1017.10 Procedures for administrative offset. (a) Debts will be collected in one lump sum where possible. If the employee is financially unable...

  4. Is Postoperative Intensive Care Unit Care Necessary following Cranial Vault Remodeling for Sagittal Synostosis?

    PubMed

    Wolfswinkel, Erik M; Howell, Lori K; Fahradyan, Artur; Azadgoli, Beina; McComb, J Gordon; Urata, Mark M

    2017-12-01

    Of U.S. craniofacial and neurosurgeons, 94 percent routinely admit patients to the intensive care unit following cranial vault remodeling for correction of sagittal synostosis. This study aims to examine the outcomes and cost of direct ward admission following primary cranial vault remodeling for sagittal synostosis. An institutional review board-approved retrospective review was undertaken of the records of all patients who underwent primary cranial vault remodeling for isolated sagittal craniosynostosis from 2009 to 2015 at a single pediatric hospital. Patient demographics, perioperative course, and outcomes were recorded. One hundred ten patients met inclusion criteria with absence of other major medical problems. Average age at operation was 6.7 months, with a mean follow-up of 19.8 months. Ninety-eight patients (89 percent) were admitted to a general ward for postoperative care, whereas the remaining 12 (11 percent) were admitted to the intensive care unit for preoperative or perioperative concerns. Among ward-admitted patients, there were four (3.6 percent) minor complications; however, there were no major adverse events, with none necessitating intensive care unit transfers from the ward and no mortalities. Average hospital stay was 3.7 days. The institution's financial difference in cost of intensive care unit stay versus ward bed was $5520 on average per bed per day. Omitting just one intensive care unit postoperative day stay for this patient cohort would reduce projected health care costs by a total of $540,960 for the study period. Despite the common practice of postoperative admission to the intensive care unit following cranial vault remodeling for sagittal craniosynostosis, the authors suggest that postoperative care be considered on an individual basis, with only a small percentage requiring a higher level of care. Therapeutic, III.

  5. Attention capture by contour onsets and offsets: no special role for onsets.

    PubMed

    Watson, D G; Humphreys, G W

    1995-07-01

    In five experiments, we investigated the power of targets defined by the onset or offset of one of an object's parts (contour onsets and offsets) either to guide or to capture visual attention. In Experiment 1, search for a single contour onset target was compared with search for a single contour offset target against a static background of distractors; no difference was found between the efficiency with which each could be detected. In Experiment 2, onsets and offsets were compared for automatic attention capture, when both occurred simultaneously. Unlike in previous studies, the effects of overall luminance change, new-object creation, and number of onset and offset items were controlled. It was found that contour onset and offset items captured attention equally well. However, display size effects on both target types were also apparent. Such effects may have been due to competition for selection between multiple onset and offset stimuli. In Experiments 3 and 4, single onset and offset stimuli were presented simultaneously and pitted directly against one another among a background of static distractors. In Experiment 3, we examined "guided search," for a target that was formed either from an onset or from an offset among static items. In Experiment 4, the onsets and offsets were uncorrelated with the target location. Similar results occurred in both experiments: target onsets and offsets were detected more efficiently than static stimuli which needed serial search; there remained effects of display size on performance; but there was still no advantage for onsets. In Experiment 5, we examined automatic attention capture by single onset and offset stimuli presented individually among static distractors. Again, there was no advantage for onset over offset targets and a display size effect was also present. These results suggest that, both in isolation and in competition, onsets that do not form new objects neither guide nor gain automatic attention more efficiently

  6. Comparing the Effectiveness of Sagittal Balance, Foraminal Stenosis, and Preoperative Cord Rotation in Predicting Postoperative C5 Palsy.

    PubMed

    Chugh, Arunit J S; Weinberg, Douglas S; Alonso, Fernando; Eubanks, Jason D

    2017-11-01

    Retrospective cohort review. To determine whether preoperative cord rotation is independently correlated with C5 palsy when analyzed alongside measures of sagittal balance and foraminal stenosis. Postoperative C5 palsy is a well-documented complication of cervical procedures with a prevalence of 4%-8%. Recent studies have shown a correlation with preoperative spinal cord rotation. There have been few studies, however, that have examined the role of sagittal balance and foraminal stenosis in the development of C5 palsy. A total of 77 patients who underwent cervical decompression-10 of whom developed C5 palsy-were reviewed. Sagittal balance was assessed using curvature angle and curvature index on radiographs and magnetic resonance image (MRI). Cord rotation was assessed on axial MRI. C4-C5 foraminal stenosis was assessed on sagittal MRI using area measurements and a grading scale. Demographics and information on surgical approach were gathered from chart review. Correlation with C5 palsy was performed by point-biserial, χ, and regression analyses. Point-biserial analysis indicated that only cord rotation showed significance (P<0.01). There was no statistical significance shown with surgical approach, sex, or age. In addition, changes in sagittal balance did not correlate with presence of C5 palsy. Logistic regression model yielded cord rotation as the only significant independent predictor of C5 palsy. For every degree of axial cord rotation, the likelihood ratio for suffering a C5 palsy was 3.93 (95% confidence interval, 2.01-8.66; P<0.05). This supports the independent capability of preoperative cord rotation to predict postoperative C5 palsy. Lack of correlation with measures of neuroforaminal stenosis potentially points to mechanisms other than direct compression as the etiology. In addition, the lack of correlation with postoperative changes in sagittal balance hints that measures of curvature angle and curvature index may not be appropriate to accurately

  7. Alternative method for determining the constant offset in lidar signal

    Treesearch

    Vladimir A. Kovalev; Cyle Wold; Alexander Petkov; Wei Min Hao

    2009-01-01

    We present an alternative method for determining the total offset in lidar signal created by a daytime background-illumination component and electrical or digital offset. Unlike existing techniques, here the signal square-range-correction procedure is initially performed using the total signal recorded by lidar, without subtraction of the offset component. While...

  8. Chemical Exchange Saturation Transfer (CEST) MR Technique for Liver Imaging at 3.0 Tesla: an Evaluation of Different Offset Number and an After-Meal and Over-Night-Fast Comparison.

    PubMed

    Deng, Min; Chen, Shu-Zhong; Yuan, Jing; Chan, Queenie; Zhou, Jinyuan; Wáng, Yì-Xiáng J

    2016-04-01

    This study seeks to explore whether chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can detect liver composition changes between after-meal and over-night-fast statuses. Fifteen healthy volunteers were scanned on a 3.0-T human MRI scanner in the evening 1.5-2 h after dinner and in the morning after over-night (12-h) fasting. Among them, seven volunteers were scanned twice to assess the scan-rescan reproducibility. Images were acquired at offsets (n = 41, increment = 0.25 ppm) from -5 to 5 ppm using a turbo spin echo (TSE) sequence with a continuous rectangular saturation pulse. Amide proton transfer-weighted (APTw) and GlycoCEST signals were quantified with the asymmetric magnetization transfer ratio (MTRasym) at 3.5 ppm and the total MTRasym integrated from 0.5 to 1.5 ppm from the corrected Z-spectrum, respectively. To explore scan time reduction, CEST images were reconstructed using 31 offsets (with 20% time reduction) and 21 offsets (with 40% time reduction), respectively. For reproducibility, GlycoCEST measurements in 41 offsets showed the smallest scan-rescan mean measurements variability, indicated by the lowest mean difference of -0.049% (95% limits of agreement, -0.209 to 0.111%); for APTw, the smallest mean difference was found to be 0.112% (95% limits of agreement, -0.698 to 0.921%) in 41 offsets. Compared with after-meal, both GlycoCEST measurement and APTw measurement under different offset number decreased after 12-h fasting. However, as the offsets number decreased (41 offsets vs. 31 offsets vs. 21 offsets), GlycoCEST map and APTw map became more heterogeneous and noisier. Our results show that CEST liver imaging at 3.0 T has high sensitivity for fasting.

  9. Offsets and conservation of the species of the EU habitats and birds directives.

    PubMed

    Regnery, Baptiste; Couvet, Denis; Kerbiriou, Christian

    2013-12-01

    Biodiversity offsets are intended to achieve no net loss of biodiversity due to economic and human development. A variety of biodiversity components are addressed by offset policies. It is required that loss of protected species due to development be offset under the EU Habitats and Birds Directives in Europe. We call this type of offset a species-equality offset because the offset pertains to the same species affected by the development project. Whether species equality can be achieved by offset design is unknown. We addressed this gap by reviewing derogation files (i.e., specific files that describe mitigation measures to ensure no net loss under the EU Habitats and Birds Directives) from 85 development projects in France (2009-2010). We collected information on type of effect (reversible vs. irreversible) and characteristics of affected and offset sites (i.e., types of species, total area). We analyzed how the type of effect and the affected-site characteristics influenced the occurrence of offset measures. The proportion of species targeted by offset measures (i.e., offset species) increased with the irreversibility of the effect of development and the conservation status of the species affected by development (i.e., affected species). Not all effects on endangered species (International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List) were offset; on average, 82% of affected species would be offset. Twenty-six percent of species of least concern were offset species. Thirty-five percent of development projects considered all affected species in their offset measures. Species richness was much lower in offset sites than in developed sites even after offset proposals. For developed areas where species richness was relatively high before development, species richness at offset sites was 5-10 times lower. The species-equality principle appears to have been applied only partially in offset policies, as in the EU directives. We suggest the application of this principle

  10. The auditory P50 component to onset and offset of sound

    PubMed Central

    Pratt, Hillel; Starr, Arnold; Michalewski, Henry J.; Bleich, Naomi; Mittelman, Nomi

    2008-01-01

    Objective: The auditory Event-Related Potentials (ERP) component P50 to sound onset and offset have been reported to be similar, but their magnetic homologue has been reported absent to sound offset. We compared the spatio-temporal distribution of cortical activity during P50 to sound onset and offset, without confounds of spectral change. Methods: ERPs were recorded in response to onsets and offsets of silent intervals of 0.5 s (gaps) appearing randomly in otherwise continuous white noise and compared to ERPs to randomly distributed click pairs with half second separation presented in silence. Subjects were awake and distracted from the stimuli by reading a complicated text. Measures of P50 included peak latency and amplitude, as well as source current density estimates to the clicks and sound onsets and offsets. Results P50 occurred in response to noise onsets and to clicks, while to noise offset it was absent. Latency of P50 was similar to noise onset (56 msec) and to clicks (53 msec). Sources of P50 to noise onsets and clicks included bilateral superior parietal areas. In contrast, noise offsets activated left inferior temporal and occipital areas at the time of P50. Source current density was significantly higher to noise onset than offset in the vicinity of the temporo-parietal junction. Conclusions: P50 to sound offset is absent compared to the distinct P50 to sound onset and to clicks, at different intracranial sources. P50 to stimulus onset and to clicks appears to reflect preattentive arousal by a new sound in the scene. Sound offset does not involve a new sound and hence the absent P50. Significance: Stimulus onset activates distinct early cortical processes that are absent to offset. PMID:18055255

  11. 16 CFR 1027.4 - Notice requirements before offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 16 Commercial Practices 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Notice requirements before offset. 1027.4 Section 1027.4 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION GENERAL SALARY OFFSET § 1027.4... debt by deducting from the employee's current disposable pay account; (3) The amount, frequency...

  12. Spectrophone stabilized laser with line center offset frequency control

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Kavaya, M. J.; Menzies, R. T. (Inventor)

    1984-01-01

    Continuous offset tuning of a frequency stabilized CW gas laser is achieved by using a spectrophone filled with the same gas as the laser for sensing a dither modulation, detecting a first or second derivative of the spectrophone output with a lock-in amplifier, the detected output of which is integrated, and applying the integrator output as a correction signal through a circuit which adds to the dither signal from an oscillator a dc offset that is adjusted with a potentiometer to a frequency offset from the absorption line center of the gas, but within the spectral linewidth of the gas. Tuning about that offset frequency is achieved by adding a dc value to the detected output of the dither modulation before integration using a potentiometer.

  13. MR imaging of a novel NOE-mediated magnetization transfer with water in rat brain at 9.4 T.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Xiao-Yong; Wang, Feng; Jin, Tao; Xu, Junzhong; Xie, Jingping; Gochberg, Daniel F; Gore, John C; Zu, Zhongliang

    2017-08-01

    To detect, map, and quantify a novel nuclear Overhauser enhancement (NOE)-mediated magnetization transfer (MT) with water at approximately -1.6 ppm [NOE(-1.6)] in rat brain using MRI. Continuous wave MT sequences with a variety of radiofrequency irradiation powers were optimized to achieve the maximum contrast of this NOE(-1.6) effect at 9.4 T. The distribution of effect magnitudes, resonance frequency offsets, and line widths in healthy rat brains and the differences of the effect between tumors and contralateral normal brains were imaged and quantified using a multi-Lorentzian fitting method. MR measurements on reconstituted model phospholipids as well as two cell lines (HEK293 and 9L) were also performed to investigate the possible molecular origin of this NOE. Our results suggest that the NOE(-1.6) effect can be detected reliably in rat brain. Pixel-wise fittings demonstrated the regional variations of the effect. Measurements in a rodent tumor model showed that the amplitude of NOE(-1.6) in brain tumor was significantly diminished compared with that in normal brain tissue. Measurements of reconstituted phospholipids suggest that this effect may originate from choline phospholipids. NOE(-1.6) could be used as a new biomarker for the detection of brain tumor. Magn Reson Med 78:588-597, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

  14. The sensitivity of patient specific IMRT QC to systematic MLC leaf bank offset errors.

    PubMed

    Rangel, Alejandra; Palte, Gesa; Dunscombe, Peter

    2010-07-01

    Patient specific IMRT QC is performed routinely in many clinics as a safeguard against errors and inaccuracies which may be introduced during the complex planning, data transfer, and delivery phases of this type of treatment. The purpose of this work is to evaluate the feasibility of detecting systematic errors in MLC leaf bank position with patient specific checks. 9 head and neck (H&N) and 14 prostate IMRT beams were delivered using MLC files containing systematic offsets (+/- 1 mm in two banks, +/- 0.5 mm in two banks, and 1 mm in one bank of leaves). The beams were measured using both MAPCHECK (Sun Nuclear Corp., Melbourne, FL) and the aS1000 electronic portal imaging device (Varian Medical Systems, Palo Alto, CA). Comparisons with calculated fields, without offsets, were made using commonly adopted criteria including absolute dose (AD) difference, relative dose difference, distance to agreement (DTA), and the gamma index. The criteria most sensitive to systematic leaf bank offsets were the 3% AD, 3 mm DTA for MAPCHECK and the gamma index with 2% AD and 2 mm DTA for the EPID. The criterion based on the relative dose measurements was the least sensitive to MLC offsets. More highly modulated fields, i.e., H&N, showed greater changes in the percentage of passing points due to systematic MLC inaccuracy than prostate fields. None of the techniques or criteria tested is sufficiently sensitive, with the population of IMRT fields, to detect a systematic MLC offset at a clinically significant level on an individual field. Patient specific QC cannot, therefore, substitute for routine QC of the MLC itself.

  15. Off-set stabilizer for comparator output

    DOEpatents

    Lunsford, James S.

    1991-01-01

    A stabilized off-set voltage is input as the reference voltage to a comparator. In application to a time-interval meter, the comparator output generates a timing interval which is independent of drift in the initial voltage across the timing capacitor. A precision resistor and operational amplifier charge a capacitor to a voltage which is precisely offset from the initial voltage. The capacitance of the reference capacitor is selected so that substantially no voltage drop is obtained in the reference voltage applied to the comparator during the interval to be measured.

  16. Is the sagittal postural alignment different in normal and dysphonic adult speakers?

    PubMed

    Franco, Débora; Martins, Fernando; Andrea, Mário; Fragoso, Isabel; Carrão, Luís; Teles, Júlia

    2014-07-01

    Clinical research in the field of voice disorders, in particular functional dysphonia, has suggested abnormal laryngeal posture due to muscle adaptive changes, although specific evidence regarding body posture has been lacking. The aim of our study was to verify if there were significant differences in sagittal spine alignment between normal (41 subjects) and dysphonic speakers (33 subjects). Cross-sectional study. Seventy-four adults, 35 males and 39 females, were submitted to sagittal plane photographs so that spine alignment could be analyzed through the Digimizer-MedCalc Software Ltd program. Perceptual and acoustic evaluation and nasoendoscopy were used for dysphonic judgments: normal and dysphonic speakers. For thoracic length curvature (TL) and for the kyphosis index (KI), a significant effect of dysphonia was observed with mean TL and KI significantly higher for the dysphonic speakers than for the normal speakers. Concerning the TL variable, a significant effect of sex was found, in which the mean of the TL was higher for males than females. The interaction between dysphonia and sex did not have a significant effect on TL and KI variables. For the lumbar length curvature variable, a significant main effect of sex was demonstrated; there was no significant main effect of dysphonia or significant sex×dysphonia interaction. Findings indicated significant differences in some sagittal spine posture measures between normal and dysphonic speakers. Postural measures can add useful information to voice assessment protocols and should be taken into account when considering particular treatment strategies. Copyright © 2014 The Voice Foundation. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

  17. 5 CFR 1215.9 - Refunds.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 5 Administrative Personnel 3 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Refunds. 1215.9 Section 1215.9 Administrative Personnel MERIT SYSTEMS PROTECTION BOARD ORGANIZATION AND PROCEDURES DEBT MANAGEMENT Salary Offset... MSPB when the debt is waived, found not owed to the MSPB, or when directed by an administrative or...

  18. 45 CFR 1179.8 - Procedures for salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 3 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Procedures for salary offset. 1179.8 Section 1179.8 Public Welfare Regulations Relating to Public Welfare (Continued) NATIONAL FOUNDATION ON THE ARTS AND THE HUMANITIES NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE HUMANITIES SALARY OFFSET § 1179.8 Procedures for salary...

  19. 45 CFR 1179.8 - Procedures for salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 3 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Procedures for salary offset. 1179.8 Section 1179.8 Public Welfare Regulations Relating to Public Welfare (Continued) NATIONAL FOUNDATION ON THE ARTS AND THE HUMANITIES NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE HUMANITIES SALARY OFFSET § 1179.8 Procedures for salary...

  20. 29 CFR 100.614 - Collection by administrative offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... conducted more than 10 years after the Government's right to collect the claim or debt first accrued. (b) Mandatory centralized offset. (1) The NLRB is required to refer past due legally enforceable, nontax debts... centralized administrative offset is not available or appropriate to collect past due legally enforceable...

  1. 12 CFR 313.142 - Request for administrative offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 12 Banks and Banking 4 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Request for administrative offset. 313.142 Section 313.142 Banks and Banking FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION PROCEDURE AND RULES OF PRACTICE PROCEDURES FOR CORPORATE DEBT COLLECTION Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund Offset § 313.142...

  2. 45 CFR 607.7 - Coordinating offset with another Federal agency.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 3 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Coordinating offset with another Federal agency. 607.7 Section 607.7 Public Welfare Regulations Relating to Public Welfare (Continued) NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION SALARY OFFSET § 607.7 Coordinating offset with another Federal agency. (a) When the NSF is the creditor agency and the Chief Financial...

  3. 45 CFR 607.7 - Coordinating offset with another Federal agency.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 3 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Coordinating offset with another Federal agency. 607.7 Section 607.7 Public Welfare Regulations Relating to Public Welfare (Continued) NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION SALARY OFFSET § 607.7 Coordinating offset with another Federal agency. (a) When the NSF is the creditor agency and the Chief Financial...

  4. 34 CFR 32.6 - Request for a pre-offset hearing.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 34 Education 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Request for a pre-offset hearing. 32.6 Section 32.6 Education Office of the Secretary, Department of Education SALARY OFFSET TO RECOVER OVERPAYMENTS OF PAY OR ALLOWANCES FROM DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION EMPLOYEES § 32.6 Request for a pre-offset hearing. (a) Except for an...

  5. Estimation of frequency offset in mobile satellite modems

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Cowley, W. G.; Rice, M.; Mclean, A. N.

    1993-01-01

    In mobilesat applications, frequency offset on the received signal must be estimated and removed prior to further modem processing. A straightforward method of estimating the carrier frequency offset is to raise the received MPSK signal to the M-th power, and then estimate the location of the peak spectral component. An analysis of the lower signal to noise threshold of this method is carried out for BPSK signals. Predicted thresholds are compared to simulation results. It is shown how the method can be extended to pi/M MPSK signals. A real-time implementation of frequency offset estimation for the Australian mobile satellite system is described.

  6. Zebrin II Is Expressed in Sagittal Stripes in the Cerebellum of Dragon Lizards (Ctenophorus sp.).

    PubMed

    Wylie, Douglas R; Hoops, Daniel; Aspden, Joel W; Iwaniuk, Andrew N

    2016-01-01

    Aldolase C, also known as zebrin II (ZII), is a glycolytic enzyme that is expressed in cerebellar Purkinje cells of the vertebrate cerebellum. In both mammals and birds, ZII is expressed heterogeneously, such that there are sagittal stripes of Purkinje cells with high ZII expression (ZII+) alternating with stripes of Purkinje cells with little or no expression (ZII-). In contrast, in snakes and turtles, ZII is not expressed heterogeneously; rather all Purkinje cells are ZII+. Here, we examined the expression of ZII in the cerebellum of lizards to elucidate the evolutionary origins of ZII stripes in Sauropsida. We focused on the central netted dragon (Ctenophorus nuchalis) but also examined cerebellar ZII expression in 5 other dragon species (Ctenophorus spp.). In contrast to what has been observed in snakes and turtles, we found that in these lizards, ZII is heterogeneously expressed. In the posterior part of the cerebellum, on each side of the midline, there were 3 sagittal stripes consisting of Purkinje cells with high ZII expression (ZII+) alternating with 2 sagittal stripes with weaker ZII expression (ZIIw). More anteriorly, most of the Purkinje cells were ZII+, except laterally, where the Purkinje cells did not express ZII (ZII-). Finally, all Purkinje cells in the auricle (flocculus) were ZII-. Overall, the parasagittal heterogeneous expression of ZII in the cerebellum of lizards is similar to that in mammals and birds, and contrasts with the homogenous ZII+ expression seen in snakes and turtles. We suggest that a sagittal heterogeneous expression of ZII represents the ancestral condition in stem reptiles which was lost in snakes and turtles. © 2017 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  7. Anterior center-edge angle on sagittal CT: a comparison of normal hips to dysplastic hips.

    PubMed

    Monazzam, Shafagh; Williams, Karly Ann; Shelton, Trevor J; Calafi, Arash; Haus, Brian M

    2018-05-01

    The anterior center-edge angle (ACEA) describes anterior acetabular coverage on false profile radiographs. Variability associated with pelvic tilt, radiographic projection, and identifying the true anterior edge, causes discrepancies in measuring an accurate ACEA. Computed tomography (CT) has the potential of improving the accuracy of ACEA. However, because the ACEA on sagittal CT has been shown to not be equivalent to ACEA on false profile radiographs, the normal range of ACEA on CT currently remains unknown and cannot reliably be used to determine over/under coverage. We therefore asked: what is the normal variation of ACEA corrected for pelvic tilt on sagittal CT and how does this compare to dysplastic hips? A retrospective review was conducted on patients 10-35 who underwent CT for non-orthopedic related issues and patients with known hip dysplasia. The ACEA was measured on a sagittal slice corresponding to the center of the femoral head on the axial slice and adjusted for pelvic tilt. A statistical comparison was then performed. A total of 320 normal patients and 22 patients with hip dysplasia were reviewed. The mean ACEA for all ages was 50° ± 8°, (range: 23-81º), with a larger mean ACEA for males (51°) than females (49°). The ACEA mean for dysplastic hips was 30° ± 11° with a statistically significant difference in mean from the normal hip group ( p < 0.0001). The ACEA can be reliably measured on sagittal CT and significantly differs from dysplastic hips. ACEA measurements above 66° or below 34° may represent anterior over and under coverage.

  8. Femoral offset: anatomical concept, definition, assessment, implications for preoperative templating and hip arthroplasty.

    PubMed

    Lecerf, G; Fessy, M H; Philippot, R; Massin, P; Giraud, F; Flecher, X; Girard, J; Mertl, P; Marchetti, E; Stindel, E

    2009-05-01

    BACKGROUND OBJECTIVE: Femoral offset is supposed to influence the results of hip replacement but little is known about the accurate method of measure and the true effect of offset modifications. This article is a collection of independent anatomic, radiological and clinical works, which purpose is to assess knowledge of the implications of femoral offset for preoperative templating and total hip arthroplasty. There is a strong correlation between femoral offset, abductors lever arm and hip abductor strength. Hip lateralization is independent of the femoral endomedullary characteristics. The abductors lever arm is highly correlated to the gluteus medius activation angle. There were correlations between femoral offset and endomedullary shape. The hip center was high and medial for stovepipe metaphysis while it was lower and lateralized for champagne - flute upper femur. A study was performed to compare the femoral offset measured by X-ray and CT-scan in 50 patients, demonstrated that plain radiography underestimates offset measurement. The 2D templating cannot appreciate the rotation of the lower limb. Taking into account the horizontal plane is essential to obtain proper 3D planning of the femoral offset. A randomized study was designed to compare femoral offset measurements after hip resurfacing and total hip arthroplasty. This study underlined hip resurfacing reduced the femoral offset, while hip replacement increased offset. However, the reduction of femoral offset after hip resurfacing does not affect the function. A pilot study was designed to assess the results of 120 hip arthroplasties with a modular femoral neck. This study showed that the use of a modular collar ensures an easier restoration of the femoral offset. A cohort of high offset stems (Lubinus 117 degrees) was retrospectively assessed. The survival rate was slightly lower that the standard design reported in the Swedish register. Finally, the measurement of offset and leg length was assessed with

  9. 45 CFR 79.44 - Right to administrative offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 1 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Right to administrative offset. 79.44 Section 79.44 Public Welfare DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL ADMINISTRATION PROGRAM FRAUD CIVIL REMEDIES § 79.44 Right to administrative offset. The amount of any penalty or assessment which has become...

  10. 45 CFR 79.44 - Right to administrative offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 1 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Right to administrative offset. 79.44 Section 79.44 Public Welfare DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL ADMINISTRATION PROGRAM FRAUD CIVIL REMEDIES § 79.44 Right to administrative offset. The amount of any penalty or assessment which has become...

  11. 45 CFR 79.44 - Right to administrative offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 1 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Right to administrative offset. 79.44 Section 79.44 Public Welfare Department of Health and Human Services GENERAL ADMINISTRATION PROGRAM FRAUD CIVIL REMEDIES § 79.44 Right to administrative offset. The amount of any penalty or assessment which has become...

  12. 45 CFR 79.44 - Right to administrative offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Right to administrative offset. 79.44 Section 79.44 Public Welfare DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL ADMINISTRATION PROGRAM FRAUD CIVIL REMEDIES § 79.44 Right to administrative offset. The amount of any penalty or assessment which has become...

  13. 6 CFR 13.44 - Right to administrative offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 6 Domestic Security 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Right to administrative offset. 13.44 Section 13.44 Domestic Security DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY, OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY PROGRAM FRAUD CIVIL REMEDIES § 13.44 Right to administrative offset. The amount of any penalty or assessment that has become...

  14. 22 CFR 213.21 - Employee salary offset-general.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 22 Foreign Relations 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Employee salary offset-general. 213.21 Section... § 213.21 Employee salary offset—general. (a) Purpose. This section establishes USAID's policies and... account of an employee. (b) Scope. The provisions of this section apply to collection by salary offset...

  15. Complete duplication of bladder and urethra in a sagittal plane in a male infant: case report and literature review.

    PubMed

    Coker, Alisa M; Allshouse, Michael J; Koyle, Martin A

    2008-08-01

    Complete duplication of the bladder and urethra is a rare entity. It may occur in the coronal and sagittal planes, and is often associated with other organ system anomalies, in particular of the gastrointestinal tract. We report an unusual variant of sagittal duplication of the bladder, in a male, associated with rudimentary hindgut duplication, and review the literature pertaining to this unusual anomaly.

  16. [Extramedullary fixation combined with intramedullary fixation in the surgical reduction of sagittal mandibular condylar fractures].

    PubMed

    Chuanjun, Chen; Xiaoyang, Chen; Jing, Chen

    2016-10-01

    This study aimed to evaluate the clinical effect of extramedullary fixation combined with intramedullary fixation during the surgical reduction of sagittal mandibular condylar fractures. Twenty-four sagittal fractures of the mandibular condyle in18 patients were fixed by two appliances: intramedullary with one long-screw osteosynthesis or Kirschner wire and extramedullary with one micro-plate. The radiologically-recorded post-operative stability-associated com-plications included the screw/micro-plate loosening, micro-plate twisting, micro-plate fractures, and fragment rotation. The occluding relations, the maximalinter-incisal distances upon mouth opening, and the mandibular deflection upon mouth opening were evaluated based on follow-up clinical examination. Postoperative panoramic X-ray and CT scans showed good repositioning of the fragment, with no redislocation or rotation, no screw/plate loosening, and no plate-twisting or fracture. Clinical examination showed that all patients regained normal mandibular movements, ideal occlusion, and normal maximal inter-incisal distances upon mouth opening. Extramedullary fixation combined with intramedullary fixation is highly recommended for sagittal condylar fractures because of the anti-rotation effect of the fragment and the reasonable place-ment of the fixation appliances.

  17. 45 CFR 607.9 - Refunds.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 3 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Refunds. 607.9 Section 607.9 Public Welfare Regulations Relating to Public Welfare (Continued) NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION SALARY OFFSET § 607.9 Refunds. (a) NSF will promptly refund to an employee any amounts deducted to satisfy debts owed to NSF when the debt is waived, found not owed to NSF, or...

  18. 9. Historic American Buildings Survey Josiah T. Tubby, Photographer September ...

    Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

    9. Historic American Buildings Survey Josiah T. Tubby, Photographer September 1936 SOUTHWEST WALL EAST BED ROOM - Jefferds Tavern, Harraseekit Road (moved to U.S. Route 1A, York), Wells, York County, ME

  19. Radiocarbon age-offsets in an arctic lake reveal the long-term response of permafrost carbon to climate change

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Gaglioti, Benjamin V.; Mann, Daniel H.; Jones, Benjamin M.; Pohlman, John W.; Kunz, Michael L.; Wooller, Matthew J.

    2014-01-01

    Continued warming of the Arctic may cause permafrost to thaw and speed the decomposition of large stores of soil organic carbon (OC), thereby accentuating global warming. However, it is unclear if recent warming has raised the current rates of permafrost OC release to anomalous levels or to what extent soil carbon release is sensitive to climate forcing. Here we use a time series of radiocarbon age-offsets (14C) between the bulk lake sediment and plant macrofossils deposited in an arctic lake as an archive for soil and permafrost OC release over the last 14,500 years. The lake traps and archives OC imported from the watershed and allows us to test whether prior warming events stimulated old carbon release and heightened age-offsets. Today, the age-offset (2 ka; thousand of calibrated years before A.D. 1950) and the depositional rate of ancient OC from the watershed into the lake are relatively low and similar to those during the Younger Dryas cold interval (occurring 12.9–11.7 ka). In contrast, age-offsets were higher (3.0–5.0 ka) when summer air temperatures were warmer than present during the Holocene Thermal Maximum (11.7–9.0 ka) and Bølling-Allerød periods (14.5–12.9 ka). During these warm times, permafrost thaw contributed to ancient OC depositional rates that were ~10 times greater than today. Although permafrost OC was vulnerable to climate warming in the past, we suggest surface soil organic horizons and peat are presently limiting summer thaw and carbon release. As a result, the temperature threshold to trigger widespread permafrost OC release is higher than during previous warming events.

  20. T-cell differentiation of multipotent hematopoietic cell line EML in the OP9-DL1 coculture system.

    PubMed

    Kutlesa, Snjezana; Zayas, Jennifer; Valle, Alexandra; Levy, Robert B; Jurecic, Roland

    2009-08-01

    Multipotent hematopoietic cell line EML can differentiate into myeloid, erythroid, megakaryocytic, and B-lymphoid lineages, but it remained unknown whether EML cells have T-cell developmental potential as well. The goal of this study was to determine whether the coculture with OP9 stromal cells expressing Notch ligand Delta-like 1 (OP9-DL1) could induce differentiation of EML cells into T-cell lineage. EML cells were cocultured with control OP9 or OP9-DL1 stromal cells in the presence of cytokines (stem cell factor, interleukin-7, and Fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 ligand). Their T-cell lineage differentiation was assessed through flow cytometry and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction expression analysis of cell surface markers and genes characterizing and associated with specific stages of T-cell development. The phenotypic, molecular, and functional analysis has revealed that in EML/OP9-DL1 cocultures with cytokines, but not in control EML/OP9 cocultures, EML cell line undergoes T-cell lineage commitment and differentiation. In OP9-DL1 cocultures, EML cell line has differentiated into cells that 1) resembled double-negative, double-positive, and single-positive stages of T-cell development; 2) initiated expression of GATA-3, Pre-Talpha, RAG-1, and T-cell receptor-Vbeta genes; and 3) produced interferon-gamma in response to T-cell receptor stimulation. These results support the notion that EML cell line has the capacity for T-cell differentiation. Remarkably, induction of T-lineage gene expression and differentiation of EML cells into distinct stages of T-cell development were very similar to previously described T-cell differentiation of adult hematopoietic stem cells and progenitors in OP9-DL1 cocultures. Thus, EML/OP9-DL1 coculture could be a useful experimental system to study the role of particular genes in T-cell lineage specification, commitment, and differentiation.

  1. High-resolution heavily T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging for evaluation of the pituitary stalk in children with ectopic neurohypophysis.

    PubMed

    El Sanharawi, Imane; Tzarouchi, Loukia; Cardoen, Liesbeth; Martinerie, Laetitia; Leger, Juliane; Carel, Jean-Claude; Elmaleh-Berges, Monique; Alison, Marianne

    2017-05-01

    In anterior pituitary deficiency, patients with non visible pituitary stalk have more often multiple deficiencies and persistent deficiency than patients with visible pituitary stalk. To compare the diagnostic value of a high-resolution heavily T2-weighted sequence to 1.5-mm-thick unenhanced and contrast-enhanced sagittal T1-weighted sequences to assess the presence of the pituitary stalk in children with ectopic posterior pituitary gland. We retrospectively evaluated the MRI data of 14 children diagnosed with ectopic posterior pituitary gland between 2010 and 2014. We evaluated the presence of a pituitary stalk using a sagittal high-resolution heavily T2-weighted sequence and a 1.5-mm sagittal T1-weighted turbo spin-echo sequence before and after contrast medium administration. A pituitary stalk was present on at least one of the sequences in 10 of the 14 children (71%). T2-weighted sequence depicted the pituitary stalk in all 10 children, whereas the 1.5-mm-thick T1-weighted sequence depicted 2/10 (20%) before contrast injection and 8/10 (80%) after contrast injection (P=0.007). Compared with 1.5-mm-thick contrast-enhanced T1-weighted sequences, high-resolution heavily T2-weighted sequence demonstrates better sensitivity in detecting the pituitary stalk in children with ectopic posterior pituitary gland, suggesting that contrast injection is unnecessary to assess the presence of a pituitary stalk in this setting.

  2. 34 CFR 32.9 - Written decision.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 34 Education 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Written decision. 32.9 Section 32.9 Education Office of the Secretary, Department of Education SALARY OFFSET TO RECOVER OVERPAYMENTS OF PAY OR ALLOWANCES FROM DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION EMPLOYEES § 32.9 Written decision. (a) The hearing official issues a written decision...

  3. "3D_Fault_Offsets," a Matlab Code to Automatically Measure Lateral and Vertical Fault Offsets in Topographic Data: Application to San Andreas, Owens Valley, and Hope Faults

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Stewart, N.; Gaudemer, Y.; Manighetti, I.; Serreau, L.; Vincendeau, A.; Dominguez, S.; Mattéo, L.; Malavieille, J.

    2018-01-01

    Measuring fault offsets preserved at the ground surface is of primary importance to recover earthquake and long-term slip distributions and understand fault mechanics. The recent explosion of high-resolution topographic data, such as Lidar and photogrammetric digital elevation models, offers an unprecedented opportunity to measure dense collections of fault offsets. We have developed a new Matlab code, 3D_Fault_Offsets, to automate these measurements. In topographic data, 3D_Fault_Offsets mathematically identifies and represents nine of the most prominent geometric characteristics of common sublinear markers along faults (especially strike slip) in 3-D, such as the streambed (minimum elevation), top, free face and base of channel banks or scarps (minimum Laplacian, maximum gradient, and maximum Laplacian), and ridges (maximum elevation). By calculating best fit lines through the nine point clouds on either side of the fault, the code computes the lateral and vertical offsets between the piercing points of these lines onto the fault plane, providing nine lateral and nine vertical offset measures per marker. Through a Monte Carlo approach, the code calculates the total uncertainty on each offset. It then provides tools to statistically analyze the dense collection of measures and to reconstruct the prefaulted marker geometry in the horizontal and vertical planes. We applied 3D_Fault_Offsets to remeasure previously published offsets across 88 markers on the San Andreas, Owens Valley, and Hope faults. We obtained 5,454 lateral and vertical offset measures. These automatic measures compare well to prior ones, field and remote, while their rich record provides new insights on the preservation of fault displacements in the morphology.

  4. Modification of the band offset in boronitrene

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Obodo, K. O.; Andrew, R. C.; Chetty, N.

    2011-10-01

    Using density functional methods within the generalized gradient approximation implemented in the Quantum Espresso codes, we modify the band offset in a single layer of boronitrene by substituting a double line of carbon atoms. This effectively introduces a line of dipoles at the interface. We considered various junctions of this system within the zigzag and armchair orientations. Our results show that the “zigzag-short” structure is energetically most stable, with a formation energy of 0.502 eV and with a band offset of 1.51 eV. The “zigzag-long” structure has a band offset of 1.99 eV. The armchair structures are nonpolar, while the zigzag-single structures show a charge accumulation for the C-substituted B and charge depletion for the C-substituted N at the junction. Consequently there is no shifting of the bands.

  5. Germinal-center development of memory B cells driven by IL-9 from follicular helper T cells.

    PubMed

    Wang, Yifeng; Shi, Jingwen; Yan, Jiacong; Xiao, Zhengtao; Hou, Xiaoxiao; Lu, Peiwen; Hou, Shiyue; Mao, Tianyang; Liu, Wanli; Ma, Yuanwu; Zhang, Lianfeng; Yang, Xuerui; Qi, Hai

    2017-08-01

    Germinal centers (GCs) support high-affinity, long-lived humoral immunity. How memory B cells develop in GCs is not clear. Through the use of a cell-cycle-reporting system, we identified GC-derived memory precursor cells (GC-MP cells) that had quit cycling and reached G0 phase while in the GC, exhibited memory-associated phenotypes with signs of affinity maturation and localized toward the GC border. After being transferred into adoptive hosts, GC-MP cells reconstituted a secondary response like genuine memory B cells. GC-MP cells expressed the interleukin 9 (IL-9) receptor and responded to IL-9. Acute treatment with IL-9 or antibody to IL-9 accelerated or retarded the positioning of GC-MP cells toward the GC edge and exit from the GC, and enhanced or inhibited the development of memory B cells, which required B cell-intrinsic responsiveness to IL-9. Follicular helper T cells (T FH cells) produced IL-9, and deletion of IL-9 from T cells or, more specifically, from GC T FH cells led to impaired memory formation of B cells. Therefore, the GC development of memory B cells is promoted by T FH cell-derived IL-9.

  6. 40 CFR 13.22 - Salary offset when EPA is the creditor agency.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Salary offset when EPA is the creditor... COLLECTION STANDARDS Administrative Offset § 13.22 Salary offset when EPA is the creditor agency. (a... through salary offset, EPA will first provide the employee with the opportunity to pay in full the amount...

  7. 22 CFR 213.22 - Salary offset when USAID is the creditor agency.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 22 Foreign Relations 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Salary offset when USAID is the creditor agency... Administrative Offset § 213.22 Salary offset when USAID is the creditor agency. (a) Due process requirements... through salary offset, USAID will first provide the employee with the opportunity to pay in full the...

  8. 7 CFR 3.81 - Procedures for salary offset: when deductions may begin.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Procedures for salary offset: when deductions may... Salary Offset § 3.81 Procedures for salary offset: when deductions may begin. (a) Deductions to liquidate... Offset Salary to collect from the employee's current pay. (b) If the employee filed a petition for a...

  9. [Significance of the sagittal profile and reposition of grade III-V spondylolisthesis].

    PubMed

    Dick, W; Elke, R

    1997-09-01

    The deformity in severe spondylolisthesis consists of two components: the parallel anterocaudad slip of the spondylolisthetic vertebra, and its tilt into kyphotic malposition. The influence of the two components is very different: the anterocaudad slippage has not much impact on the sagittal profile of the spine and is easily compensated for by a slight increase in lumbar lordosis. The kyphotic deformity has a high impact on trunk imbalance and the sagittal profile. There are two compensation mechanisms: hyperlordosis of the lumbar spine to its anatomical extremes and-if that is not sufficient-verticalisation of the sacral bone, performed by contracture of the hamstrings and uprighting of the pelvis around the hip joints. The latter mechanism is followed by functional disadvantages. Therefore, correction of the kyphosis of L5 may be considered during operative treatment if the lumbosacral kyphosis (angle delta) is less than 85 degrees and the sacral inclination less than 35 degrees.

  10. Single-channel, box-shaped, monopole-type antenna for B1+ field manipulation in conjunction with the traveling-wave concept in 9.4 T MRI.

    PubMed

    Zivkovic, Irena; Scheffler, Klaus

    2015-08-01

    We have developed a single-channel, box-shaped, monopole-type antenna which, if used in two different configurations, excites complementary B1+ field distributions in the traveling-wave setup. A new monopole-type, single-channel antenna for RF excitation in 9.4 T magnetic resonance imaging is proposed. The antenna is entirely made of copper without lumped elements. Two complementary B1+ field distributions of two different antenna configurations were measured and combined as a root sum of squares. B1+ field inhomogeneity of the combined maps was calculated and compared with published results. By combining B1+ field distributions generated by two antenna configurations, a "no voids" pattern was achieved for the entire upper brain. B1+ inhomogeneity of approximately 20 % was achieved for sagittal and transverse slices; it was <24 % for coronal slices. The results were comparable with those from CP, with "no voids" in slice B1+ inhomogeneity of multichannel loop arrays. The efficiency of the proposed antenna was lower than that of a multichannel array but comparable with that of a patch antenna. The proposed single-channel antenna is a promising candidate for traveling-wave brain imaging. It can be combined with the time-interleaved acquisition of modes (TIAMO) concept if reconfigurability is obtained with a single-antenna element.

  11. 45 CFR 33.8 - Voluntary repayment agreement in lieu of salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 45 Public Welfare 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Voluntary repayment agreement in lieu of salary... SALARY OFFSET § 33.8 Voluntary repayment agreement in lieu of salary offset. (a)(1) In response to the... notice of intent to offset. An employee who wishes to repay the debt without salary offset shall also...

  12. Impacts of urban forests on offsetting carbon emissions from industrial energy use in Hangzhou, China.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Min; Kong, Zheng-hong; Escobedo, Francisco J; Gao, Jun

    2010-01-01

    This study quantified carbon storage and sequestration by urban forests and carbon emissions from energy consumption by several industrial sources in Hangzhou, China. Carbon (C) storage and sequestration were quantified using urban forest inventory data and by applying volume-derived biomass equations and other models relating net primary productivity (NPP) and mean annual biomass increments. Industrial energy use C emissions were estimated by accounting for fossil fuel use and assigning C emission factors. Total C storage by Hangzhou's urban forests was estimated at 11.74 Tg C, and C storage per hectare was 30.25 t C. Carbon sequestration by urban forests was 1,328, 166.55 t C/year, and C sequestration per ha was 1.66 t C/ha/year. Carbon emissions from industrial energy use in Hangzhou were 7 Tg C/year. Urban forests, through sequestration, annually offset 18.57% of the amount of carbon emitted by industrial enterprises, and store an amount of C equivalent to 1.75 times the amount of annual C emitted by industrial energy uses within the city. Management practices for improving Hangzhou's urban forests function of offsetting C emissions from energy consumption are explored. These results can be used to evaluate the urban forests' role in reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide. Copyright 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  13. 10 CFR 15.33 - Collection by administrative offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    .... 3716 to collect a debt more than 10 years after the Government's right to collect the debt first... 170. If the collection of “approval” fees has been deferred, the ten-year period begins to run at the... collections by offset. (b) Mandatory centralized offset. (1) The NRC is required to refer past due, legally...

  14. Efficient CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene editing in Arabidopsis thaliana and inheritance of modified genes in the T2 and T3 generations.

    PubMed

    Jiang, WenZhi; Yang, Bing; Weeks, Donald P

    2014-01-01

    The newly developed CRISPR/Cas9 system for targeted gene knockout or editing has recently been shown to function in plants in both transient expression systems as well as in primary T1 transgenic plants. However, stable transmission of genes modified by the Cas9/single guide RNA (sgRNA) system to the T2 generation and beyond has not been demonstrated. Here we provide extensive data demonstrating the efficiency of Cas9/sgRNA in causing modification of a chromosomally integrated target reporter gene during early development of transgenic Arabidopsis plants and inheritance of the modified gene in T2 and T3 progeny. Efficient conversion of a nonfunctional, out-of-frame GFP gene to a functional GFP gene was confirmed in T1 plants by the observation of green fluorescent signals in leaf tissues as well as the presence of mutagenized DNA sequences at the sgRNA target site within the GFP gene. All GFP-positive T1 transgenic plants and nearly all GFP-negative plants examined contained mutagenized GFP genes. Analyses of 42 individual T2 generation plants derived from 6 different T1 progenitor plants showed that 50% of T2 plants inherited a single T-DNA insert. The efficiency of the Cas9/sgRNA system and stable inheritance of edited genes point to the promise of this system for facile editing of plant genes.

  15. Enhancement cavities for zero-offset-frequency pulse trains.

    PubMed

    Holzberger, S; Lilienfein, N; Trubetskov, M; Carstens, H; Lücking, F; Pervak, V; Krausz, F; Pupeza, I

    2015-05-15

    The optimal enhancement of broadband optical pulses in a passive resonator requires a seeding pulse train with a specific carrier-envelope-offset frequency. Here, we control the phase of the cavity mirrors to tune the offset frequency for which a given comb is optimally enhanced. This enables the enhancement of a zero-offset-frequency train of sub-30-fs pulses to multi-kW average powers. The combination of pulse duration, power, and zero phase slip constitutes a crucial step toward the generation of attosecond pulses at multi-10-MHz repetition rates. In addition, this control affords the enhancement of pulses generated by difference-frequency mixing, e.g., for mid-infrared spectroscopy.

  16. [Tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis using a retrograde nail locked in the sagittal plane].

    PubMed

    Veselý, R; Procházka, V; Visna, P; Valentová, J; Savolt, J

    2008-04-01

    To evaluate our experience with the use of a retrograde nail locked in the sagittal plane for tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis indicated in severe post-traumatic arthritis of the ankle. Twenty patients, 16 men and four women at an average age of 58.7 years (range, 23 to 72) were evaluated. All patients had severe post-traumatic changes in the talocrural and talocalcaneal joints. Five patients also had an equinus deformity. In two patients arthrodesis followed the treatment of purulent arthritis of the talocrural joint. A local fasciocutaneous flap was used for soft tissue reconstruction in three patients. All patients were operated on using the standard surgical technique. METHODS With the patient in a supine position, reamed by hand with the use of a driving rod, a straight retrograde AAN Orthofix nail was inserted through the heel bone and talus into the distal tibia and locked in these bones in the sagittal plane. No complications such as injury to the neurovascular plexus or pseudoarthrosis were recorded. Four patients showed a reaction to the proximal locking screw on the proximal tibial surface, which was treated by earlier screw removal under topical anaesthesia. Due to infectious complications, the nail had to be removed prematurely in one patient. The average Foot Function Index was 12 points (range, 10 to 15) and the average ankle-hindfoot score was 67.6 points (range, 59 to 84). Thirteen patients (65 %) were not limited in their daily activities or recreational sports, six (30 %) experienced pain in sports but not daily activities and one patient (5 %) reported pain even when walking. All fusions healed in the correct position within 18 weeks. Tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis is not a frequent surgical procedure in either trauma surgery or orthopaedics. For this complicated procedure, rather than intramedullary nails, internal fixation with screws or plates or external fixation are preferred. The high rate of bony healing can be explained by maintenance of

  17. Using offsets to mitigate environmental impacts of major projects: A stakeholder analysis.

    PubMed

    Martin, Nigel; Evans, Megan; Rice, John; Lodhia, Sumit; Gibbons, Philip

    2016-09-01

    Global patterns of development suggest that as more projects are initiated, business will need to find acceptable measures to conserve biodiversity. The application of environmental offsets allows firms to combine their economic interests with the environment and society. This article presents the results of a multi-stakeholder analysis related to the design of offsets principles, policies, and regulatory processes, using a large infrastructure projects context. The results indicate that business was primarily interested in using direct offsets and other compensatory measures, known internationally as indirect offsets, to acquit their environmental management obligations. In contrast, the environmental sector argued that highly principled and scientifically robust offsets programs should be implemented and maintained for enduring environmental protection. Stakeholder consensus stressed the importance of offsets registers with commensurate monitoring and enforcement. Our findings provide instructive insights into the countervailing views of offsets policy stakeholders. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  18. Fgf9 from dermal γδ T cells induces hair follicle neogenesis after wounding

    PubMed Central

    Gay, Denise; Kwon, Ohsang; Zhang, Zhikun; Spata, Michelle; Plikus, Maksim V; Holler, Phillip D; Ito, Mayumi; Yang, Zaixin; Treffeisen, Elsa; Kim, Chang D; Nace, Arben; Zhang, Xiaohong; Baratono, Sheena; Wang, Fen; Ornitz, David M; Millar, Sarah E; Cotsarelis, George

    2014-01-01

    Understanding molecular mechanisms for regeneration of hair follicles provides new opportunities for developing treatments for hair loss and other skin disorders. Here we show that fibroblast growth factor 9 (Fgf9), initially secreted by γδ T cells, modulates hair follicle regeneration after wounding the skin of adult mice. Reducing Fgf9 expression decreases this wound-induced hair neogenesis (WIHN). Conversely, overexpression of Fgf9 results in a two- to threefold increase in the number of neogenic hair follicles. We found that Fgf9 from γδ T cells triggers Wnt expression and subsequent Wnt activation in wound fibroblasts. Through a unique feedback mechanism, activated fibroblasts then express Fgf9, thus amplifying Wnt activity throughout the wound dermis during a crucial phase of skin regeneration. Notably, humans lack a robust population of resident dermal γδ T cells, potentially explaining their inability to regenerate hair after wounding. These findings highlight the essential relationship between the immune system and tissue regeneration. The importance of Fgf9 in hair follicle regeneration suggests that it could be used therapeutically in humans. PMID:23727932

  19. Matrix Metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 Levels in Children on Hemodialysis: Association with MMP-9 C-1562T Gene Polymorphism and Vitamin D Levels

    PubMed Central

    Galal, Ashraf; Fadel, Fatina I.; Mokhtar, Enas; Elshamaa, Manal F.; Elghoroury, Eman A.; Kamel, Solaf; Elsaeed, Gamila S. M.; Thabet, Eman H.

    2016-01-01

    Background and objectives: Data concerning the concentration of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and its functional polymorphisms in chronic kidney diseases (CKD) are conflicting. The present study aimed to evaluate the levels of MMP-9in children with end stage renal diseases (ESRD) on hemodialysis (HD) and to explore its association with MMP-9 polymorphism and vitamin D levels as an important risk factors for cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Methods: We studied 55 children with ESRD on hemodialysis and 18 healthy children served as controls. MMP-9 and vitamin D levels were measured by ELISA in serum of all patients and controls. Genotypes for MMP-9 polymorphism(C-1562T) were determined by RFLP for only 28 of the patients and all the controls. Results: There were insignificantly reduced MMP-9levels of patients vs. controls, however, there was significant increase in MMP-9 levels associated with CC genotypes for(C-1562T) polymorphism compared with CT genotype (p=0.01). We found that at MMP-9 base position-1562, the frequencies of the genotypes CC and CT in Children on HD were 71.4% and 28.6% respectively while all our controls were of the CC genotype. The alleles frequencies of C and T in patients were 85.7% and 14.29% as compared to 100% and 0%, respectively in the controls. Significant decrease in vitamin D was observed in children on HD versus that in controls (p=0.008). Serum MMP9 levels and age were variables that were independently associated with CVD. Conclusions: MMP9 genetic polymorphism (C-1562T) affects MMP9alterations in ESRD children on HD and vitamin D deficiency is common in our HD pediatric patients who require attention in accordance with current practice guidelines. They probably require supplementation with higher doses of cholecalciferol. PMID:27829825

  20. 36 CFR 1201.32 - What are NARA's procedures for salary offset?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... for salary offset? 1201.32 Section 1201.32 Parks, Forests, and Public Property NATIONAL ARCHIVES AND RECORDS ADMINISTRATION GENERAL RULES COLLECTION OF CLAIMS Salary Offset § 1201.32 What are NARA's procedures for salary offset? (a) NARA will coordinate salary deductions under this subpart as appropriate...

  1. A framework for implementing biodiversity offsets: selecting sites and determining scale

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Kiesecker, Joseph M.; Copeland, Holly; Pocewicz, Amy; Nibbelink, Nate; McKenney, Bruce; Dahlke, John; Holloran, Matthew J.; Stroud, Dan

    2009-01-01

    Biodiversity offsets provide a mechanism for maintaining or enhancing environmental values in situations where development is sought despite detrimental environmental impacts. They seek to ensure that unavoidable negative environmental impacts of development are balanced by environmental gains, with the overall aim of achieving a net neutral or positive outcome. Once the decision has been made to offset, multiple issues arise regarding how to do so in practice. A key concern is site selection. In light of the general aim to locate offsets close to the affected sites to ensure that benefits accrue in the same area, what is the appropriate spatial scale for identifying potential offset sites (e.g., local, ecoregional)? We use the Marxan site-selection algorithm to address conceptual and methodological challenges associated with identifying a set of potential offset sites and determining an appropriate spatial scale for them. To demonstrate this process, we examined the design of offsets for impacts from development on the Jonah natural gas field in Wyoming.

  2. Central Sagittal Angle of the Sacrum as a New Risk Factor for Patients with Persistent Low Back Pain after Caesarean Section

    PubMed Central

    Kazdal, Hizir; Batcik, Osman Ersagun; Ozdemir, Bulent; Senturk, Senol; Yildirim, Murat; Kazancioglu, Leyla; Sen, Ahmet; Batcik, Sule; Balik, Mehmet Sabri

    2017-01-01

    Study Design Retrospective. Purpose This study investigated the possible association of persistent low back pain (LBP) with caesarean section (CS) under spinal anesthesia. Overview of Literature Many women suffer from LBP after CS, which is commonly performed under spinal anesthesia. However, this type of LBP is poorly understood, and there is poor consensus regarding increased risk after spinal anesthesia. Methods We examined two groups of patients who underwent cesarean delivery under spinal anesthesia. Group I included patients who presented to a neurosurgical clinic complaining of LBP for at least 6 months. Group II was a control group with patients without LBP. We analyzed clinical and sagittal angle parameters, including age, body mass index, parity, central sagittal angle of the sacrum (CSAS), and sacral slope (SS). Results Fifty-three patients participated in this study: 23 (43.1%) in Group I and 30 (56.9%) in Group II. Non-parametric Mann–Whitney U-tests showed that age, parity, and CSAS significantly differed between the two groups at 6 months. Conclusions Age, parity, and CSAS appear to be associated with increased risk for LBP after CS under spinal anesthesia. Future prospective studies on this subject may help validate our results. PMID:29093782

  3. Surgical treatment of sagittal fracture of mandibular condyle using long-screw osteosynthesis.

    PubMed

    Luo, Shufang; Li, Bo; Long, Xing; Deng, Mohong; Cai, Hengxing; Cheng, Yong

    2011-07-01

    The retrospective study evaluated long-screw (bicortical screw) osteosynthesis used in the surgical treatment of sagittal fracture of the mandibular condyle and compared it with titanium plates and removal of the condylar fragment. Ninety-five patients with sagittal fracture of the mandibular condyle received open surgical treatment from 1997 to 2008. Among these patients, the condylar fragments were fixed with long screws in 56 cases (group A), were fixed with titanium plates in 12 cases (group B), and were completely removed in 24 cases (group C). Follow-up was carried out clinically and radiologically. The clinical features included limitation of mandibular mobility, occlusion disturbance, lateral deviation on mouth opening, joint pain, clicking, facial asymmetry, and patient's subjective evaluation. The radiologic parameters consisted of degree of bony resorption, bony change, change of osteosynthesis material, and shortening of mandibular ramus height. Anatomic reduction and functional restoration were obtained and no severe complication was detected in group A. However, 3 of 14 patients had severe osteoarthrosis and 2 of 14 patients had ankylosis in group B. In group C 3 of 24 patients had mandibular retrusion, 4 of 24 patients had front teeth open bite, 4 of 24 patients had severe osteoarthrosis, and 1 of 24 patients had ankylosis. The long-screw fixation group had a more favorable prognosis than the titanium plate group and the group in which removal of the condylar fragment was performed. The long-screw fixation technique might be suitable for use in the surgical treatment of sagittal fractures of the mandibular condyle. Copyright © 2011 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  4. Study of weld offset in longitudinally welded SSME HPFTP inlet

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Min, J. B.; Spanyer, K. S.; Brunair, R. M.

    1992-01-01

    Welded joints are an essential part of rocket engine structures such as the Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME) turbopumps. Defects produced in the welding process can be detrimental to weld performance. Recently, review of the SSME high pressure fuel turbopump (HPFTP) titanium inlet X-rays revealed several weld discrepancies such as penetrameter density issues, film processing discrepancies, weld width discrepancies, porosity, lack of fusion, and weld offsets. Currently, the sensitivity of welded structures to defects is of concern. From a fatigue standpoint, weld offset may have a serious effect since local yielding, in general, aggravates cyclic stress effects. Therefore, the weld offset issue is considered in this report. Using the FEM and beamlike plate approximations, parametric studies were conducted to determine the influence of weld offsets and a variation of weld widths in longitudinally welded cylindrical structures with equal wall thicknesses on both sides of the joint. Following the study, some conclusions are derived for the weld offsets.

  5. 12 CFR 608.841 - Requesting current paying agency to offset salary.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... salary. 608.841 Section 608.841 Banks and Banking FARM CREDIT ADMINISTRATION ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS COLLECTION OF CLAIMS OWED THE UNITED STATES Offset Against Salary § 608.841 Requesting current paying agency to offset salary. (a) To request a paying agency to impose a salary offset against amounts owed to...

  6. 24 CFR 17.135 - Procedures for salary offset: types of collection.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 24 Housing and Urban Development 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Procedures for salary offset: types of collection. 17.135 Section 17.135 Housing and Urban Development Office of the Secretary... the Government Salary Offset Provisions § 17.135 Procedures for salary offset: types of collection. A...

  7. 24 CFR 17.137 - Procedures for salary offset: imposition of interest.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 24 Housing and Urban Development 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Procedures for salary offset: imposition of interest. 17.137 Section 17.137 Housing and Urban Development Office of the Secretary... the Government Salary Offset Provisions § 17.137 Procedures for salary offset: imposition of interest...

  8. 24 CFR 17.136 - Procedures for salary offset: methods of collection.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 24 Housing and Urban Development 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Procedures for salary offset: methods of collection. 17.136 Section 17.136 Housing and Urban Development Office of the Secretary... the Government Salary Offset Provisions § 17.136 Procedures for salary offset: methods of collection...

  9. Graphic Arts/Offset Lithography.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hoisington, James; Metcalf, Joseph

    This revised curriculum for graphic arts is designed to provide secondary and postsecondary students with entry-level skills and an understanding of current printing technology. It contains lesson plans based on entry-level competencies for offset lithography as identified by educators and industry representatives. The guide is divided into 15…

  10. T-cell differentiation of multipotent hematopoietic cell line EML in the OP9-DL1 coculture system

    PubMed Central

    Kutleša, Snježana; Zayas, Jennifer; Valle, Alexandra; Levy, Robert B.; Jurecic, Roland

    2011-01-01

    Objective Multipotent hematopoietic cell line EML can differentiate into myeloid, erythroid, megakaryocytic, and B-lymphoid lineages, but it remained unknown whether EML cells have T-cell developmental potential as well. The goal of this study was to determine whether the coculture with OP9 stromal cells expressing Notch ligand Delta-like 1 (OP9-DL1) could induce differentiation of EML cells into T-cell lineage. Materials and Methods EML cells were cocultured with control OP9 or OP9-DL1 stromal cells in the presence of cytokines (stem cell factor, interleukin-7, and Fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 ligand). Their T-cell lineage differentiation was assessed through flow cytometry and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction expression analysis of cell surface markers and genes characterizing and associated with specific stages of T-cell development. Results The phenotypic, molecular, and functional analysis has revealed that in EML/OP9-DL1 cocultures with cytokines, but not in control EML/OP9 cocultures, EML cell line undergoes T-cell lineage commitment and differentiation. In OP9-DL1 cocultures, EML cell line has differentiated into cells that 1) resembled double-negative, double-positive, and single-positive stages of T-cell development; 2) initiated expression of GATA-3, Pre-Tα, RAG-1, and T-cell receptor – Vβ genes; and 3) produced interferon-γ in response to T-cell receptor stimulation. Conclusions These results support the notion that EML cell line has the capacity for T-cell differentiation. Remarkably, induction of T-lineage gene expression and differentiation of EML cells into distinct stages of T-cell development were very similar to previously described T-cell differentiation of adult hematopoietic stem cells and progenitors in OP9-DL1 cocultures. Thus, EML/OP9-DL1 coculture could be a useful experimental system to study the role of particular genes in T-cell lineage specification, commitment, and differentiation. PMID:19447159

  11. Energy band offsets of dielectrics on InGaZnO4

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hays, David C.; Gila, B. P.; Pearton, S. J.; Ren, F.

    2017-06-01

    Thin-film transistors (TFTs) with channels made of hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) and polycrystalline silicon (poly-Si) are used extensively in the display industry. Amorphous silicon continues to dominate large-format display technology, but a-Si:H has a low electron mobility, μ ˜ 1 cm2/V s. Transparent, conducting metal-oxide materials such as Indium-Gallium-Zinc Oxide (IGZO) have demonstrated electron mobilities of 10-50 cm2/V s and are candidates to replace a-Si:H for TFT backplane technologies. The device performance depends strongly on the type of band alignment of the gate dielectric with the semiconductor channel material and on the band offsets. The factors that determine the conduction and valence band offsets for a given material system are not well understood. Predictions based on various models have historically been unreliable and band offset values must be determined experimentally. This paper provides experimental band offset values for a number of gate dielectrics on IGZO for next generation TFTs. The relationship between band offset and interface quality, as demonstrated experimentally and by previously reported results, is also explained. The literature shows significant variations in reported band offsets and the reasons for these differences are evaluated. The biggest contributor to conduction band offsets is the variation in the bandgap of the dielectrics due to differences in measurement protocols and stoichiometry resulting from different deposition methods, chemistry, and contamination. We have investigated the influence of valence band offset values of strain, defects/vacancies, stoichiometry, chemical bonding, and contamination on IGZO/dielectric heterojunctions. These measurements provide data needed to further develop a predictive theory of band offsets.

  12. Geophysics: The size and duration of the Sumatra-Andaman earthquake from far-field static offsets

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Banerjee, P.; Pollitz, F.F.; Burgmann, R.

    2005-01-01

    The 26 December 2004 Sumatra earthquake produced static offsets at continuously operating GPS stations at distances of up to 4500 kilometers from the epicenter. We used these displacements to model the earthquake and include consideration of the Earth's shape and depth-varying rigidity. The results imply that the average slip was >5 meters along the full length of the rupture, including the ???650-kilometer-long Andaman segment. Comparison of the source derived from the far-field static offsets with seismically derived estimates suggests that 25 to 35% of the total moment release occurred at periods greater than 1 hour. Taking into consideration the strong dip dependence of moment estimates, the magnitude of the earthquake did not exceed Mw = 9.2.

  13. 7 CFR 3.83 - Procedures for salary offset: methods of collection.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Procedures for salary offset: methods of collection. 3.83 Section 3.83 Agriculture Office of the Secretary of Agriculture DEBT MANAGEMENT Federal Salary Offset § 3.83 Procedures for salary offset: methods of collection. (a) General. A debt will be collected...

  14. Influence of Random DC Offsets on Burst-Mode Receiver Sensitivity

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ossieur, Peter; de Ridder, Tine; Qiu, Xing-Zhi; Vandewege, Jan

    2006-03-01

    This paper presents the influence of random direct current (dc) offsets on the sensitivity of dc-coupled burst-mode receivers (BMRxs). It is well known that a BMRx exhibits a noisy decision threshold, resulting in a sensitivity penalty. If the BMRx is dc coupled, an additional penalty is incurred by random dc offsets. This penalty can only be determined for a statistically significant number of fabricated BMRx samples. Using Monte Carlo (MC) simulations and a detailed BMRx model, the relationship between the variance of this random dc offset, the resulting sensitivity penalty, and BMRx yield (the fraction of fabricated BMRx samples that meets a given sensitivity specification) is evaluated as a function of various receiver parameters. The obtained curves can be used to trade off BMRx die area against sensitivity for a given yield. It is demonstrated that a thorough understanding of the relationship between BMRx sensitivity, BMRx yield, and the variance of the random dc offsets is needed to optimize a dc-coupled BMRx with respect to sensitivity and die area for a given yield. It is shown that compensation of dc offsets with a resolution of 8 bits results in a sensitivity penalty of 1 dB for a wide range of random dc offsets.

  15. In vivo1H NMR spectroscopy of the human brain at 9.4 T: Initial results

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Deelchand, Dinesh Kumar; Moortele, Pierre-François Van de; Adriany, Gregor; Iltis, Isabelle; Andersen, Peter; Strupp, John P.; Thomas Vaughan, J.; Uğurbil, Kâmil; Henry, Pierre-Gilles

    2010-09-01

    In vivo proton NMR spectroscopy allows non-invasive detection and quantification of a wide range of biochemical compounds in the brain. Higher field strength is generally considered advantageous for spectroscopy due to increased signal-to-noise and increased spectral dispersion. So far 1H NMR spectra have been reported in the human brain up to 7 T. In this study we show that excellent quality short echo time STEAM and LASER 1H NMR spectra can be measured in the human brain at 9.4 T. The information content of the human brain spectra appears very similar to that measured in the past decade in rodent brains at the same field strength, in spite of broader linewidth in human brain. Compared to lower fields, the T1 relaxation times of metabolites were slightly longer while T2 relaxation values of metabolites were shorter (<100 ms) at 9.4 T. The linewidth of the total creatine (tCr) resonance at 3.03 ppm increased linearly with magnetic field (1.35 Hz/T from 1.5 T to 9.4 T), with a minimum achievable tCr linewidth of around 12.5 Hz at 9.4 T. At very high field, B0 microsusceptibility effects are the main contributor to the minimum achievable linewidth.

  16. 7 CFR 400.141 - Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Tax Refund Offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 6 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Tax Refund Offset. 400...-Regulations for the 1986 and Succeeding Crop Years § 400.141 Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Tax Refund Offset... debt owing to any Federal agency by offset against a taxpayer's Federal income tax refund. This section...

  17. 12 CFR 1408.41 - Requesting current paying agency to offset salary.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... salary. 1408.41 Section 1408.41 Banks and Banking FARM CREDIT SYSTEM INSURANCE CORPORATION COLLECTION OF CLAIMS OWED THE UNITED STATES Offset Against Salary § 1408.41 Requesting current paying agency to offset salary. (a) To request a paying agency to impose a salary offset against amounts owed to the debtor, the...

  18. 7 CFR 3.82 - Procedures for salary offset: types of collection.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Procedures for salary offset: types of collection. 3.82 Section 3.82 Agriculture Office of the Secretary of Agriculture DEBT MANAGEMENT Federal Salary Offset § 3.82 Procedures for salary offset: types of collection. A debt will be collected in a lump-sum...

  19. 34 CFR 32.8 - Pre-offset hearing on the written submissions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 34 Education 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Pre-offset hearing on the written submissions. 32.8 Section 32.8 Education Office of the Secretary, Department of Education SALARY OFFSET TO RECOVER OVERPAYMENTS OF PAY OR ALLOWANCES FROM DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION EMPLOYEES § 32.8 Pre-offset hearing on the...

  20. 38 CFR 3.658 - Offsets; dependency and indemnity compensation.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 38 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Offsets; dependency and... AFFAIRS ADJUDICATION Pension, Compensation, and Dependency and Indemnity Compensation Adjustments and Resumptions § 3.658 Offsets; dependency and indemnity compensation. (a) When an award of dependency and...

  1. 38 CFR 3.658 - Offsets; dependency and indemnity compensation.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... 38 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief 1 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Offsets; dependency and... AFFAIRS ADJUDICATION Pension, Compensation, and Dependency and Indemnity Compensation Adjustments and Resumptions § 3.658 Offsets; dependency and indemnity compensation. (a) When an award of dependency and...

  2. 38 CFR 3.658 - Offsets; dependency and indemnity compensation.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... 38 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief 1 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Offsets; dependency and... AFFAIRS ADJUDICATION Pension, Compensation, and Dependency and Indemnity Compensation Adjustments and Resumptions § 3.658 Offsets; dependency and indemnity compensation. (a) When an award of dependency and...

  3. 38 CFR 3.658 - Offsets; dependency and indemnity compensation.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... 38 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief 1 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Offsets; dependency and... AFFAIRS ADJUDICATION Pension, Compensation, and Dependency and Indemnity Compensation Adjustments and Resumptions § 3.658 Offsets; dependency and indemnity compensation. (a) When an award of dependency and...

  4. 38 CFR 3.658 - Offsets; dependency and indemnity compensation.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... 38 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Offsets; dependency and... AFFAIRS ADJUDICATION Pension, Compensation, and Dependency and Indemnity Compensation Adjustments and Resumptions § 3.658 Offsets; dependency and indemnity compensation. (a) When an award of dependency and...

  5. Revisiting the Acanthamoeba species that form star-shaped cysts (genotypes T7, T8, T9, and T17): characterization of seven new Brazilian environmental isolates and phylogenetic inferences.

    PubMed

    Magliano, Ana C M; Teixeira, Marta M G; Alfieri, Silvia C

    2012-01-01

    Free-living amoebae of the genus Acanthamoeba are the agents of both opportunistic and non-opportunistic infections and are frequently isolated from the environment. Of the 17 genotypes (T1-T17) identified thus far, 4 (T7, T8, T9, and T17) accommodate the rarely investigated species of morphological group I, those that form large, star-shaped cysts. We report the isolation and characterization of 7 new Brazilian environmental Acanthamoeba isolates, all assigned to group I. Phylogenetic analyses based on partial (~1200 bp) SSU rRNA gene sequences placed the new isolates in the robustly supported clade composed of the species of morphological group I. One of the Brazilian isolates is closely related to A. comandoni (genotype T9), while the other 6, together with 2 isolates recently assigned to genotype T17, form a homogeneous, well-supported group (2·0% sequence divergence) that likely represents a new Acanthamoeba species. Thermotolerance, osmotolerance, and cytophatic effects, features often associated with pathogenic potential, were also examined. The results indicated that all 7 Brazilian isolates grow at temperatures up to 40°C, and resist under hyperosmotic conditions. Additionally, media conditioned by each of the new Acanthamoeba isolates induced the disruption of SIRC and HeLa cell monolayers.

  6. Does Andrews facial analysis predict esthetic sagittal maxillary position?

    PubMed

    Resnick, Cory M; Daniels, Kimberly M; Vlahos, Maryann

    2018-04-01

    Cephalometric analyses have limited utility in planning maxillary sagittal position for orthognathic surgery. In Six Elements of Orofacial Harmony, Andrews quantified maxillary position relative to forehead projection and angulation and proposed an ideal relationship. The purpose of this study was to investigate the ability of this technique to predict esthetic sagittal maxillary position. Survey study including a male and female with straight facial profiles, normal maxillary incisor angulations, and Angle's Class I. Maxillary position was modified on lateral photographs to create 5 images for each participant with incisor-goal anterior limit line (GALL) distances of -4, -2, 0, +2, and +4 mm. A series of health care professionals and laypeople were asked to rate each photo in order of attractiveness. A total of 100 complete responses were received. Incisor-GALL distances of +4 mm (41%) and +2 mm (40%) were most commonly considered "most esthetic" for the female volunteer (P < .001). For the male volunteer, there were 2 peak "most esthetic" responses: incisor-GALL distances of 0 mm (37%) and -4 mm (32%) (P < .001). Respondents considered maxillary incisor position 2 to 4 mm anterior to GALL most attractive in a woman and 0 to 4 mm posterior to GALL most esthetic in a man. Using these modified target distances, this analysis may be useful for orthognathic surgery planning. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  7. Offset-electrode profile acquisition strategy for electrical resistivity tomography

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Robbins, Austin R.; Plattner, Alain

    2018-04-01

    We present an electrode layout strategy that allows electrical resistivity profiles to image the third dimension close to the profile plane. This "offset-electrode profile" approach involves laterally displacing electrodes away from the profile line in an alternating fashion and then inverting the resulting data using three-dimensional electrical resistivity tomography software. In our synthetic and field surveys, the offset-electrode method succeeds in revealing three-dimensional structures in the vicinity of the profile plane, which we could not achieve using three-dimensional inversions of linear profiles. We confirm and explain the limits of linear electrode profiles through a discussion of the three-dimensional sensitivity patterns: For a homogeneous starting model together with a linear electrode layout, all sensitivities remain symmetric with respect to the profile plane through each inversion step. This limitation can be overcome with offset-electrode layouts by breaking the symmetry pattern among the sensitivities. Thanks to freely available powerful three-dimensional resistivity tomography software and cheap modern computing power, the requirement for full three-dimensional calculations does not create a significant burden and renders the offset-electrode approach a cost-effective method. By offsetting the electrodes in an alternating pattern, as opposed to laying the profile out in a U-shape, we minimize shortening the profile length.

  8. Duodenal afferent input converges onto T9-T10 spinal neurons responding to gastric distension in rats.

    PubMed

    Qin, Chao; Chen, Jiande D Z; Zhang, Jing; Foreman, Robert D

    2007-12-01

    Clinically, the overlap of gastroduodenal symptoms, such as visceral pain or hypersensitivity, is often observed in functional gastrointestinal disorders. The underlying mechanism may be related to intraspinal neuronal processing of noxious convergent inputs from the stomach and the intestine. The purpose of this study was to examine whether single low thoracic (T9-T10) spinal neurons responded to both gastric and duodenal mechanical stimulation. Extracellular potentials of single T9-T10 spinal neurons were recorded in pentobarbital anesthetized, paralyzed, and ventilated male rats. Graded gastric distensions (GD, 20, 40, 60 mm Hg, 20 s) were induced by air inflation of a latex balloon surgically placed in the stomach. Graded duodenal distensions (DD, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6 ml, 20 s) were produced by water inflation of a latex balloon placed into the duodenum. Of 70 deeper (depth from dorsal surface of spinal cord: 0.3-1.2 mm) spinal neurons responsive to noxious GD (> or =40 mm Hg), 44(63%) also responded to noxious DD (> or =0.4 ml). Similarly, 13/17 (76%) superficial neurons (depth <0.3 mm) responded to both GD and DD. Of 57 gastroduodenal convergent neurons, 41 (72%) had excitatory and 6 had inhibitory responses to both GD and DD; the remaining neurons exhibited multiple patterns of excitation and inhibition. 43/57 (75%) gastroduodenal convergent neurons had low-threshold (< or =20 mm Hg) responses to GD, whereas 42/57 (74%) of these neurons had high-threshold (> or =0.4 ml) responses to DD. In addition, 34/40 (85%) gastroduodenal convergent neurons had somatic receptive fields on the back, flank, and medial/lateral abdominal areas. These results suggested that superficial and deeper T9-T10 spinal neurons received innocuous and/or noxious convergent inputs from mechanical stimulation of the stomach and duodenum. Gastroduodenal convergent spinal neurons might contribute to intraspinal sensory transmission for cross-organ afferent-afferent communication between the

  9. Ion Composition of Titan's Ionosphere Observed During T9 Magnetotail Crossing

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Sittler, Edward; Hartle, Richard; Cooper, John; Shappirio, Marcus; Johnson, Robert; Simpson, David

    2011-01-01

    In a recent paper, Sittler et al., (2010) presented new results on the T9 encounter by the Cassini spacecraft when it passed through Titan s induced magnetotail. Two crossings were observed, but the first crossing, event 1, is thought to be out flowing ionosphere plasma. T9 is ideal for CAPS IMS probing of the ionosphere, since the ion densities at the higher altitudes of the T9 flyby approx. 10,000 km, allows measurements to be made down to 1 eV without saturating its detectors. Sittler et al., (2010) reported possible detection of NH4+ ions, but favored the detection of CH5+ and C2H5+ ions. In this report we investigate both the medium mass resolution (straight through (ST)) and high mass resolution (linear electric field (LEF)) composition data from the Cassini Plasma Spectrometer (CAPS) Ion Mass Spectrometer (IMS). We present a more in depth analysis of the composition data and make comparisons with ionospheric models including nitrogen chemistry such as that by Vuitton et al. (2007). The LEF data does not support NH4+ identification, but favors a CH5+ and C2H5+ identification, but also molecular ions C2N+ and CH2NH2+ are chemically allowed possibilities.

  10. 3.0T MR imaging of the ankle: Axial traction for morphological cartilage evaluation, quantitative T2 mapping and cartilage diffusion imaging-A preliminary study.

    PubMed

    Jungmann, Pia M; Baum, Thomas; Schaeffeler, Christoph; Sauerschnig, Martin; Brucker, Peter U; Mann, Alexander; Ganter, Carl; Bieri, Oliver; Rummeny, Ernst J; Woertler, Klaus; Bauer, Jan S

    2015-08-01

    To determine the impact of axial traction during high resolution 3.0T MR imaging of the ankle on morphological assessment of articular cartilage and quantitative cartilage imaging parameters. MR images of n=25 asymptomatic ankles were acquired with and without axial traction (6kg). Coronal and sagittal T1-weighted (w) turbo spin echo (TSE) sequences with a driven equilibrium pulse and sagittal fat-saturated intermediate-w (IMfs) TSE sequences were acquired for morphological evaluation on a four-point scale (1=best, 4=worst). For quantitative assessment of cartilage degradation segmentation was performed on 2D multislice-multiecho (MSME) SE T2, steady-state free-precession (SSFP; n=8) T2 and SSFP diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI; n=8) images. Wilcoxon-tests and paired t-tests were used for statistical analysis. With axial traction, joint space width increased significantly and delineation of cartilage surfaces was rated superior (P<0.05). Cartilage surfaces were best visualized on coronal T1-w images (P<0.05). Differences for cartilage matrix evaluation were smaller. Subchondral bone evaluation, motion artifacts and image quality were not significantly different between the acquisition methods (P>0.05). T2 values were lower at the tibia than at the talus (P<0.001). Reproducibility was better for images with axial traction. Axial traction increased the joint space width, allowed for better visualization of cartilage surfaces and improved compartment discrimination and reproducibility of quantitative cartilage parameters. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  11. A Computer Simulation of the System-Wide Effects of Parallel-Offset Route Maneuvers

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Lauderdale, Todd A.; Santiago, Confesor; Pankok, Carl

    2010-01-01

    Most aircraft managed by air-traffic controllers in the National Airspace System are capable of flying parallel-offset routes. This paper presents the results of two related studies on the effects of increased use of offset routes as a conflict resolution maneuver. The first study analyzes offset routes in the context of all standard resolution types which air-traffic controllers currently use. This study shows that by utilizing parallel-offset route maneuvers, significant system-wide savings in delay due to conflict resolution of up to 30% are possible. It also shows that most offset resolutions replace horizontal-vectoring resolutions. The second study builds on the results of the first and directly compares offset resolutions and standard horizontal-vectoring maneuvers to determine that in-trail conflicts are often more efficiently resolved by offset maneuvers.

  12. On the origins of chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) contrast in tumors at 9.4 T.

    PubMed

    Xu, Junzhong; Zaiss, Moritz; Zu, Zhongliang; Li, Hua; Xie, Jingping; Gochberg, Daniel F; Bachert, Peter; Gore, John C

    2014-04-01

    Chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) provides an indirect means to detect exchangeable protons within tissues through their effects on the water signal. Previous studies have suggested that amide proton transfer (APT) imaging, a specific form of CEST, detects endogenous amide protons with a resonance frequency offset 3.5 ppm downfield from water, and thus may be sensitive to variations in mobile proteins/peptides in tumors. However, as CEST measurements are influenced by various confounding effects, such as spillover saturation, magnetization transfer (MT) and MT asymmetry, the mechanism or degree of increased APT signal in tumors is not certain. In addition to APT, nuclear Overhauser enhancement (NOE) effects upfield from water may also provide distinct information on tissue composition. In the current study, APT, NOE and several other MR parameters were measured and compared comprehensively in order to elucidate the origins of APT and NOE contrasts in tumors at 9.4 T. In addition to conventional CEST methods, a new intrinsic inverse metric was applied to correct for relaxation and other effects. After corrections for spillover, MT and T1 effects, corrected APT in tumors was found not to be significantly different from that in normal tissues, but corrected NOE effects in tumors showed significant decreases compared with those in normal tissues. Biochemical measurements verified that there was no significant enhancement of protein contents in the tumors studied, consistent with the corrected APT measurements and previous literature, whereas quantitative MT data showed decreases in the fractions of immobile macromolecules in tumors. Our results may assist in the better understanding of the contrast depicted by CEST imaging in tumors, and in the development of improved APT and NOE measurements for cancer imaging. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  13. Matrix metalloproteinase-9 functional promoter polymorphism 1562C>T increased risk of early-onset coronary artery disease.

    PubMed

    Saedi, Massoud; Vaisi-Raygani, Asad; Khaghani, Shahnaz; Shariftabrizi, Ahmad; Rezaie, M; Pasalar, Parvin; Rahimi, Zohreh; Pourmotabbed, Tayebeh

    2012-01-01

    The Matrix metalloproteinase-9 functional promoter polymorphism 1562C>T may be considered an important genetic determinant of early-onset coronary artery disease (ECAD). In this study, association between MMP-9 1562C>T allele with plasma MMP-9 activity, homocysteine and lipid-lipoproteins level and ECAD in Iranian subjects was investigated. This case-control study consisted of 53 ECAD patients (age < 55 years) and unrelated late-onsets CAD (age>70 years) who angiographically had at least 50% stenosis. MMP-9 1562C>T polymorphism was detected by PCRRFLP, plasma MMP-9 activity, serum lipid and homocysteine levels were determined by gelatin gel zymography, enzyme assay and by HPLC, respectively. The presence of MMP-9 1562C>T allele was found to be associated with ECAD (OR=3.2, P=0.001). The ECAD patients with MMP-9 1562C>T allele had higher MMP-9 activity (P=0.001), LDL-C (P=0.045), TC (P=0.02) and homocysteine (P=0.01) levels than the LCAD subjects. MMP-9 1562C>T allele is a risk factor for ECAD. The carriers of this allele have high levels of MMP-9 activity, LDL-C, TC and homocysteine (P=0.01), thus, are more likely to develop myocardial infarction and CAD at young age (less than 55 years).

  14. Cholesterol negatively regulates IL-9-producing CD8+ T cell differentiation and antitumor activity.

    PubMed

    Ma, Xingzhe; Bi, Enguang; Huang, Chunjian; Lu, Yong; Xue, Gang; Guo, Xing; Wang, Aibo; Yang, Maojie; Qian, Jianfei; Dong, Chen; Yi, Qing

    2018-05-09

    CD8 + T cells can be polarized into IL-9-secreting (Tc9) cells. We previously showed that adoptive therapy using tumor-specific Tc9 cells generated stronger antitumor responses in mouse melanoma than classical Tc1 cells. To understand why Tc9 cells exert stronger antitumor responses, we used gene profiling to compare Tc9 and Tc1 cells. Tc9 cells expressed different levels of cholesterol synthesis and efflux genes and possessed significantly lower cholesterol content than Tc1 cells. Unique to Tc9, but not other CD8 + or CD4 + T cell subsets, manipulating cholesterol content in polarizing Tc9 cells significantly affected IL-9 expression and Tc9 differentiation and antitumor response in vivo. Mechanistic studies showed that IL-9 was indispensable for Tc9 cell persistence and antitumor effects, and cholesterol or its derivatives inhibited IL-9 expression by activating liver X receptors (LXRs), leading to LXR Sumoylation and reduced p65 binding to Il9 promoter. Our study identifies cholesterol as a critical regulator of Tc9 cell differentiation and function. © 2018 Ma et al.

  15. Bilambdoid and posterior sagittal synostosis: the Mercedes Benz syndrome.

    PubMed

    Moore, M H; Abbott, A H; Netherway, D J; Menard, R; Hanieh, A

    1998-09-01

    A consistent pattern of craniosynostosis in the sagittal and bilateral lambdoid sutures is described in three patients. The external cranial ridging associated with fusion of these sutures produces a characteristic triradiate, or "Mercedes Benz," appearance to the posterior skull. Locally marked growth restriction is evident in the posterior fossa with compensatory secondary expansion of the anterior fossa manifesting a degree of frontal bossing which mimics bicoronal synostosis. Although this appearance could lead to inadvertent surgery in the frontal region, attention to the occipital region with wide early suture excision and vault shaping is indicated.

  16. The Effects of Molding Helmet Therapy on Spring-Mediated Cranial Vault Remodeling for Sagittal Craniosynostosis.

    PubMed

    Swanson, Jordan W; Haas, Jacqueline A; Mitchell, Brianne T; Storm, Philip B; Bartlett, Scott P; Heuer, Gregory G; Taylor, Jesse A

    2016-09-01

    There is no clear consensus for the optimal treatment of sagittal craniosynostosis; however, recent studies suggest that improved neurocognitive outcomes may be obtained when surgical intervention imparts active cranial expansion or remodeling and is performed before 6 months of age. The authors consider spring-mediated cranioplasty (SMC) to optimally address these imperatives, and this is an investigation of how helmet orthoses before or after SMC affect aesthetic outcomes.The authors retrospectively evaluated patients treated with SMC and adjunct helmeting for sagittal synostosis. Patients were stratified into 4 cohorts based on helmet usage: preop, postop, both, and neither. The cephalic index (CI) was used to assess head shape changes and outcomes. Twenty-six patients met inclusion criteria: 6 (23%) had preop, 11 (42%) had postop, 4 (15%) had preop and postop, and 5 (19%) had no helmeting. Average age at surgery was 3.6 months. Overall, CI improved from a mean 69.8 to 77.9 during an average 7-month course of care. Mean preoperative change in CI showed greater improvement with preop helmet (1.3) versus not (0.0), (P = 0.029), despite similar initial CI in these cohorts (70.4 and 69.6 respectively, P = 0.69). Nonetheless, all patient cohorts regardless of helmeting status achieved similar final CIs (range 76.4-80.4; P = 0.72).In summary, preoperative molding helmet therapy leads to improved CI at the time of spring-mediated cranioplasty. However, this benefit does not necessarily translate into overall improved CI after surgery and in follow-up, calling into question the benefits of molding helmet therapy in this setting.

  17. Association of Baseline Knee Sagittal Dynamic Joint Stiffness during Gait and 2-year Patellofemoral Cartilage Damage Worsening in Knee Osteoarthritis

    PubMed Central

    Chang, Alison H.; Chmiel, Joan S.; Almagor, Orit; Guermazi, Ali; Prasad, Pottumarthi V.; Moisio, Kirsten C.; Belisle, Laura; Zhang, Yunhui; Hayes, Karen; Sharma, Leena

    2016-01-01

    Objective Knee sagittal dynamic joint stiffness (DJS) describes the biomechanical interaction between change in external knee flexion moment and flexion angular excursion during gait. In theory, greater DJS may particularly stress the patellofemoral (PF) compartment and thereby contribute to PF osteoarthritis (OA) worsening. We hypothesized that greater baseline knee sagittal DJS is associated with PF cartilage damage worsening 2 years later. Methods Participants all had OA in at least one knee. Knee kinematics and kinetics during gait were recorded using motion capture systems and force plates. Knee sagittal DJS was computed as the slope of the linear regression line for knee flexion moments vs. angles during the loading response phase. Knee MRI scans were obtained at baseline and 2 years later. We assessed the association between baseline DJS and baseline-to-2-year PF cartilage damage worsening using logistic regression with generalized estimating equations. Results Our sample had 391 knees (204 persons): mean age 64.2 years (SD 10.0); BMI 28.4 kg/m2 (5.7); 76.5% women. Baseline knee sagittal DJS was associated with baseline-to-2-year cartilage damage worsening in the lateral (OR=5.35, 95% CI: 2.37–12.05) and any PF (OR=2.99, 95% CI: 1.27–7.04) compartment. Individual components of baseline DJS (i.e., change in knee moment or angle) were not associated with subsequent PF disease worsening. Conclusion Capturing the concomitant effect of knee kinetics and kinematics during gait, knee sagittal DJS is a potentially modifiable risk factor for PF disease worsening. PMID:27729289

  18. Optimized RNP transfection for highly efficient CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene knockout in primary T cells.

    PubMed

    Seki, Akiko; Rutz, Sascha

    2018-03-05

    CRISPR (clustered, regularly interspaced, short palindromic repeats)/Cas9 (CRISPR-associated protein 9) has become the tool of choice for generating gene knockouts across a variety of species. The ability for efficient gene editing in primary T cells not only represents a valuable research tool to study gene function but also holds great promise for T cell-based immunotherapies, such as next-generation chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells. Previous attempts to apply CRIPSR/Cas9 for gene editing in primary T cells have resulted in highly variable knockout efficiency and required T cell receptor (TCR) stimulation, thus largely precluding the study of genes involved in T cell activation or differentiation. Here, we describe an optimized approach for Cas9/RNP transfection of primary mouse and human T cells without TCR stimulation that results in near complete loss of target gene expression at the population level, mitigating the need for selection. We believe that this method will greatly extend the feasibly of target gene discovery and validation in primary T cells and simplify the gene editing process for next-generation immunotherapies. © 2018 Genentech.

  19. Spatially offset Raman spectroscopy for photon migration investigations in long bone

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sowoidnich, Kay; Churchwell, John H.; Buckley, Kevin; Kerns, Jemma G.; Goodship, Allen E.; Parker, Anthony W.; Matousek, Pavel

    2015-07-01

    Raman Spectroscopy has become an important technique for assessing the composition of excised sections of bone, and is currently being developed as an in vivo tool for transcutaneous detection of bone disease using spatially offset Raman spectroscopy (SORS). The sampling volume of the Raman technique (and thus the amount of bone material interrogated by SORS) depends on the nature of the photon scattering in the probed tissue. Bone is a complex hierarchical material and to date little is known regarding its diffuse scattering properties which are important for the development and optimization of SORS as a diagnostic tool for characterizing bone disease in vivo. SORS measurements at 830 nm excitation wavelength are carried out on stratified samples to determine the depth from which the Raman signal originates within bone tissue. The measurements are made using a 0.38 mm thin Teflon slice, to give a pronounced and defined spectral signature, inserted in between layers of stacked 0.60 mm thin equine bone slices. Comparing the stack of bone slices with and without underlying bone section below the Teflon slice illustrated that thin sections of bone can lose appreciable number of photons through the unilluminated back surface. The results show that larger SORS offsets lead to progressively larger penetration depth into the sample; different Raman spectral signatures could be retrieved through up to 3.9 mm of overlying bone material with a 7 mm offset. These findings have direct impact on potential diagnostic medical applications; for instance on the detection of bone tumors or areas of infected bone.

  20. Numerical simulation of offset-drain amorphous oxide-based thin-film transistors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jeong, Jaewook

    2016-11-01

    In this study, we analyzed the electrical characteristics of amorphous indium-gallium-zinc-oxide (a-IGZO) thin-film transistors (TFTs) with an offset-drain structure by technology computer aided design (TCAD) simulation. When operating in a linear region, an enhancement-type TFT shows poor field-effect mobility because most conduction electrons are trapped in acceptor-like defects in an offset region when the offset length (L off) exceeds 0.5 µm, whereas a depletion-type TFT shows superior field-effect mobility owing to the high free electron density in the offset region compared with the trapped electron density. When operating in the saturation region, both types of TFTs show good field-effect mobility comparable to that of a reference TFT with a large gate overlap. The underlying physics of the depletion and enhancement types of offset-drain TFTs are systematically analyzed.

  1. Investigation of Maximum Blade Loading Capability of Lift-Offset Rotors

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Yeo, Hyeonsoo; Johnson, Wayne

    2013-01-01

    Maximum blade loading capability of a coaxial, lift-offset rotor is investigated using a rotorcraft configuration designed in the context of short-haul, medium-size civil and military missions. The aircraft was sized for a 6600-lb payload and a range of 300 nm. The rotor planform and twist were optimized for hover and cruise performance. For the present rotor performance calculations, the collective pitch angle is progressively increased up to and through stall with the shaft angle set to zero. The effects of lift offset on rotor lift, power, controls, and blade airloads and structural loads are examined. The maximum lift capability of the coaxial rotor increases as lift offset increases and extends well beyond the McHugh lift boundary as the lift potential of the advancing blades are fully realized. A parametric study is conducted to examine the differences between the present coaxial rotor and the McHugh rotor in terms of maximum lift capabilities and to identify important design parameters that define the maximum lift capability of the rotor. The effects of lift offset on rotor blade airloads and structural loads are also investigated. Flap bending moment increases substantially as lift offset increases to carry the hub roll moment even at low collective values. The magnitude of flap bending moment is dictated by the lift-offset value (hub roll moment) but is less sensitive to collective and speed.

  2. 10 CFR 16.13 - Procedures for centralized administrative offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... Section 16.13 Energy NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION SALARY OFFSET PROCEDURES FOR COLLECTING DEBTS OWED BY FEDERAL EMPLOYEES TO THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT § 16.13 Procedures for centralized administrative offset. (a) The NRC must notify Treasury of all debts that are delinquent as defined in the FCCS (over 180 days...

  3. 7 CFR 760.911 - Offsets, assignments, and debt settlement.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 7 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Offsets, assignments, and debt settlement. 760.911 Section 760.911 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued) FARM SERVICE AGENCY... § 760.911 Offsets, assignments, and debt settlement. (a) Any payment to any participant will be made...

  4. 7 CFR 760.911 - Offsets, assignments, and debt settlement.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 7 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Offsets, assignments, and debt settlement. 760.911 Section 760.911 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued) FARM SERVICE AGENCY... § 760.911 Offsets, assignments, and debt settlement. (a) Any payment to any participant will be made...

  5. 7 CFR 760.911 - Offsets, assignments, and debt settlement.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 7 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Offsets, assignments, and debt settlement. 760.911 Section 760.911 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued) FARM SERVICE AGENCY... § 760.911 Offsets, assignments, and debt settlement. (a) Any payment to any participant will be made...

  6. 7 CFR 760.911 - Offsets, assignments, and debt settlement.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 7 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Offsets, assignments, and debt settlement. 760.911 Section 760.911 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued) FARM SERVICE AGENCY... § 760.911 Offsets, assignments, and debt settlement. (a) Any payment to any participant will be made...

  7. 7 CFR 760.911 - Offsets, assignments, and debt settlement.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 7 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Offsets, assignments, and debt settlement. 760.911 Section 760.911 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued) FARM SERVICE AGENCY... § 760.911 Offsets, assignments, and debt settlement. (a) Any payment to any participant will be made...

  8. Radiographic diagnosis of sagittal plane rotational displacement in pelvic fractures: a cadaveric model and clinical case study.

    PubMed

    Shui, Xiaolong; Ying, Xiaozhou; Kong, Jianzhong; Feng, Yongzeng; Hu, Wei; Guo, Xiaoshan; Wang, Gang

    2015-08-01

    Our objective was to measure the sagittal plane rotational (flexion and extension) displacement of hemipelvis radiologically and analyze the ratio of flexion and extension displacement of unstable pelvic fractures. We used 8 cadaveric models to study the radiographic evidence of pelvic fractures in the sagittal plane. We performed pelvic osteotomy on 8 cadavers to simulate anterior and posterior pelvic ring injury. Radiological data were measured in the flexion and extension group under different angles (5°, 10°, 15°, 20°, and 25°). We retrospectively reviewed 164 patients who were diagnosed with a unilateral fracture of the pelvis. Pelvic ring displacement was identified and recorded radiographically in cadaveric models. The flexion and extension displacement of pelvic fractures was measured in terms of the vertical distance of fracture from the top of iliac crest to the pubic tubercle (CD) or from the top of iliac crest to the lowest point of ischial tuberosity (AB). Fifty-seven pelves showed flexion displacement and 15 showed extension displacement. Closed reduction including internal fixation and external fixation was successfully used in 141 cases (86.0 %). The success rates of closed reduction in flexion and extension displacement groups were 77 and 73 %, respectively, which were lower than in unstable pelvic ring fractures. The sagittal plane rotation (flexion and extension) displacement of pelvic fractures could be measured by special points and lines on the radiographs. Minimally invasive reduction should be based on clearly identified differences between the sagittal plane rotation and the vertical displacement of pelvic fractures.

  9. Long-term strength and allowable stresses of grade 10Kh9MFB and X10CrMoVNb9-1 (T91/P91) chromium heat-resistant steels

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Skorobogatykh, V. N.; Danyushevskiy, I. A.; Schenkova, I. A.; Prudnikov, D. A.

    2015-04-01

    Currently, grade X10CrMoVNb9-1 (T91, P91) and 10Kh9MFB (10Kh9MFB-Sh) chromium steels are widely applied in equipment manufacturing for thermal power plants in Russia and abroad. Compilation and comparison of tensile, impact, and long-term strength tests results accumulated for many years of investigations of foreign grade X10CrMoVNb9-1, T91, P91, and domestic grade 10Kh9MFB (10Kh9MFB-Sh) steels is carried out. The property identity of metals investigated is established. High strength and plastic properties of steels, from which pipes and other products are made, for operation under creep conditions are confirmed. Design characteristics of long-term strength on the basis of tests with more than one million of hour-samples are determined ( and at temperatures of 500-650°C). The table of recommended allowable stresses for grade 10Kh9MFB, 10Kh9MFB-SH, X10CrMoVNb9-1, T91, and P91 steels is developed. The long-time properties of pipe welded joints of grade 10Kh9MFB+10Kh9MFB, 10Kh9MFB-Sh+10Kh9MFB-Sh, X10CrMoVNb9-1+X10CrMoVNb9-1, P91+P91, T91+T91, 10Kh9MFB (10Kh9MFB-Sh)+X10CrMoVNb9-1(T/P91) steels is researched. The welded joint reduction factor is experimentally determined.

  10. WISE Brown Dwarf Binaries: The Discovery of a T5+T5 and a T8.5+T9 System

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gelino, Christopher R.; Kirkpatrick, J. Davy; Cushing, Michael C.; Eisenhardt, Peter R.; Griffith, Roger L.; Mainzer, Amanda K.; Marsh, Kenneth A.; Skrutskie, Michael F.; Wright, Edward L.

    2011-08-01

    The multiplicity properties of brown dwarfs are critical empirical constraints for formation theories, while multiples themselves provide unique opportunities to test evolutionary and atmospheric models and examine empirical trends. Studies using high-resolution imaging cannot only uncover faint companions, but they can also be used to determine dynamical masses through long-term monitoring of binary systems. We have begun a search for the coolest brown dwarfs using preliminary processing of data from the Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer and have confirmed many of the candidates as late-type T dwarfs. In order to search for companions to these objects, we are conducting observations using the Laser Guide Star Adaptive Optics system on Keck II. Here we present the first results of that search, including a T5 binary with nearly equal mass components and a faint companion to a T8.5 dwarf with an estimated spectral type of T9. Some of the data presented herein were obtained at the W. M. Keck Observatory, which is operated as a scientific partnership among the California Institute of Technology, the University of California, and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. The Observatory was made possible by the generous financial support of the W. M. Keck Foundation.

  11. 41 CFR 105-56.008 - Pre-offset paper hearing.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 3 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Pre-offset paper hearing. 105-56.008 Section 105-56.008 Public Contracts and Property Management Federal Property Management... General Services Administration Employees § 105-56.008 Pre-offset paper hearing. If a hearing is to be...

  12. 41 CFR 105-56.008 - Pre-offset paper hearing.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Pre-offset paper hearing. 105-56.008 Section 105-56.008 Public Contracts and Property Management Federal Property Management... General Services Administration Employees § 105-56.008 Pre-offset paper hearing. If a hearing is to be...

  13. Unexpected expansion of tRNA substrate recognition by the yeast m1G9 methyltransferase Trm10.

    PubMed

    Swinehart, William E; Henderson, Jeremy C; Jackman, Jane E

    2013-08-01

    N-1 Methylation of the nearly invariant purine residue found at position 9 of tRNA is a nucleotide modification found in multiple tRNA species throughout Eukarya and Archaea. First discovered in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the tRNA methyltransferase Trm10 is a highly conserved protein both necessary and sufficient to catalyze all known instances of m1G9 modification in yeast. Although there are 19 unique tRNA species that contain a G at position 9 in yeast, and whose fully modified sequence is known, only 9 of these tRNA species are modified with m1G9 in wild-type cells. The elements that allow Trm10 to distinguish between structurally similar tRNA species are not known, and sequences that are shared between all substrate or all nonsubstrate tRNAs have not been identified. Here, we demonstrate that the in vitro methylation activity of yeast Trm10 is not sufficient to explain the observed pattern of modification in vivo, as additional tRNA species are substrates for Trm10 m1G9 methyltransferase activity. Similarly, overexpression of Trm10 in yeast yields m1G9 containing tRNA species that are ordinarily unmodified in vivo. Thus, yeast Trm10 has a significantly broader tRNA substrate specificity than is suggested by the observed pattern of modification in wild-type yeast. These results may shed light onto the suggested involvement of Trm10 in other pathways in other organisms, particularly in higher eukaryotes that contain up to three different genes with sequence similarity to the single TRM10 gene in yeast, and where these other enzymes have been implicated in pathways beyond tRNA processing.

  14. INJURIES OF THE SAGITTAL GROOVE OF THE PROXIMAL PHALANX IN WARMBLOOD HORSES DETECTED WITH LOW-FIELD MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING: 19 CASES (2007-2016).

    PubMed

    Gold, Sarah J; Werpy, Natasha M; Gutierrez-Nibeyro, Santiago D

    2017-05-01

    Sagittal groove injuries of the proximal phalanx are an important cause of lameness in performance horses. The purpose of this retrospective case series study was to describe standing low-field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) characteristics of these injuries in a group of Warmblood horses. Horses with an MRI diagnosis of sagittal groove injuries involving the proximal phalanx and that had follow-up MRI and clinical outcome information were included. Findings from clinical examinations, diagnostic tests, and other imaging modalities were recorded. All MRI studies were retrieved for re-evaluation by an experienced, board-certified veterinary radiologist. A total of 19 horses met inclusion criteria. All horses had MRI lesions consistent with unilateral or bilateral sagittal groove injuries of the proximal phalanx and abnormal mineralization of the sagittal ridge of the third metacarpal/metatarsal bone. Fifteen horses (79%) had concurrent osteoarthritis of the affected metacarpophalangeal/metatarsophalangeal joint. Eighteen horses received conservative therapy and all horses still had osseous abnormalities detected at the time of follow-up MRI. Thirteen horses (68.5%) were still lame at the time of follow-up, whereas the other six horses (31.5%) had become sound and returned to the previous level of exercise. Findings indicated that, for mature Warmblood horses, acute or chronic injuries of the sagittal groove of the proximal phalanx may have variable standing low-field MRI characteristics. Based on this sample of 19 horses, findings also indicated that the prognosis for performance soundness in horses diagnosed with sagittal groove injury of the proximal phalanx and concurrent osteoarthritis is poor. © 2017 American College of Veterinary Radiology.

  15. The Nature of Active Galactic Nuclei with Velocity Offset Emission Lines

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Müller-Sánchez, F.; Comerford, J.; Stern, D.; Harrison, F. A.

    2016-10-01

    We obtained Keck/OSIRIS near-IR adaptive optics-assisted integral-field spectroscopy to probe the morphology and kinematics of the ionized gas in four velocity-offset active galactic nuclei (AGNs) from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. These objects possess optical emission lines that are offset in velocity from systemic as measured from stellar absorption features. At a resolution of ˜0.″18, OSIRIS allows us to distinguish which velocity offset emission lines are produced by the motion of an AGN in a dual supermassive black hole system, and which are produced by outflows or other kinematic structures. In three galaxies, J1018+2941, J1055+1520, and J1346+5228, the spectral offset of the emission lines is caused by AGN-driven outflows. In the remaining galaxy, J1117+6140, a counterrotating nuclear disk is observed that contains the peak of Paα emission 0.″2 from the center of the galaxy. The most plausible explanation for the origin of this spatially and kinematically offset peak is that it is a region of enhanced Paα emission located at the intersection zone between the nuclear disk and the bar of the galaxy. In all four objects, the peak of ionized gas emission is not spatially coincident with the center of the galaxy as traced by the peak of the near-IR continuum emission. The peaks of ionized gas emission are spatially offset from the galaxy centers by 0.″1-0.″4 (0.1-0.7 kpc). We find that the velocity offset originates at the location of this peak of emission, and the value of the offset can be directly measured in the velocity maps. The emission-line ratios of these four velocity-offset AGNs can be reproduced only with a mixture of shocks and AGN photoionization. Shocks provide a natural explanation for the origin of the spatially and spectrally offset peaks of ionized gas emission in these galaxies. Based on observations at the W. M. Keck Observatory, which is operated as a scientific partnership among the California Institute of Technology, the

  16. 22 CFR 213.23 - Salary offset when USAID is not the creditor agency.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 22 Foreign Relations 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Salary offset when USAID is not the creditor... Administrative Offset § 213.23 Salary offset when USAID is not the creditor agency. (a) USAID will use salary... installment, if a date other than the next established pay period. (b) Requests for salary offset must be sent...

  17. Frequency-Offset Cartesian Feedback Based on Polyphase Difference Amplifiers

    PubMed Central

    Zanchi, Marta G.; Pauly, John M.; Scott, Greig C.

    2010-01-01

    A modified Cartesian feedback method called “frequency-offset Cartesian feedback” and based on polyphase difference amplifiers is described that significantly reduces the problems associated with quadrature errors and DC-offsets in classic Cartesian feedback power amplifier control systems. In this method, the reference input and feedback signals are down-converted and compared at a low intermediate frequency (IF) instead of at DC. The polyphase difference amplifiers create a complex control bandwidth centered at this low IF, which is typically offset from DC by 200–1500 kHz. Consequently, the loop gain peak does not overlap DC where voltage offsets, drift, and local oscillator leakage create errors. Moreover, quadrature mismatch errors are significantly attenuated in the control bandwidth. Since the polyphase amplifiers selectively amplify the complex signals characterized by a +90° phase relationship representing positive frequency signals, the control system operates somewhat like single sideband (SSB) modulation. However, the approach still allows the same modulation bandwidth control as classic Cartesian feedback. In this paper, the behavior of the polyphase difference amplifier is described through both the results of simulations, based on a theoretical analysis of their architecture, and experiments. We then describe our first printed circuit board prototype of a frequency-offset Cartesian feedback transmitter and its performance in open and closed loop configuration. This approach should be especially useful in magnetic resonance imaging transmit array systems. PMID:20814450

  18. On determining fluxgate magnetometer spin axis offsets from mirror mode observations

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Plaschke, Ferdinand; Narita, Yasuhito

    2016-09-01

    In-flight calibration of fluxgate magnetometers that are mounted on spacecraft involves finding their outputs in vanishing ambient fields, the so-called magnetometer offsets. If the spacecraft is spin-stabilized, then the spin plane components of these offsets can be relatively easily determined, as they modify the spin tone content in the de-spun magnetic field data. The spin axis offset, however, is more difficult to determine. Therefore, usually Alfvénic fluctuations in the solar wind are used. We propose a novel method to determine the spin axis offset: the mirror mode method. The method is based on the assumption that mirror mode fluctuations are nearly compressible such that the maximum variance direction is aligned to the mean magnetic field. Mirror mode fluctuations are typically found in the Earth's magnetosheath region. We introduce the method and provide a first estimate of its accuracy based on magnetosheath observations by the THEMIS-C spacecraft. We find that 20 h of magnetosheath measurements may already be sufficient to obtain high-accuracy spin axis offsets with uncertainties on the order of a few tenths of a nanotesla, if offset stability can be assumed.

  19. Increased Femoral Head Offset is Associated With Elevated Metal Ions in Asymptomatic Patients With Metal-on-Polyethylene Total Hip Arthroplasty.

    PubMed

    Martin, John R; Camp, Christopher L; Wyles, Cody C; Taunton, Michael J; Trousdale, Robert T; Lewallen, David G

    2016-12-01

    Predisposing factors for trunnionosis and elevated metal ion levels in metal-on-polyethylene (MOP) total hip arthroplasty (THA) are currently unknown. This retrospective cohort study enrolled 80 consecutive patients (43 males) with an asymptomatic MOP THA at 2- to 5-year follow-up and no other metal implants. Serum cobalt (Co) and chromium (Cr) levels were collected at the time of enrollment, and retrospective review was performed regarding demographic, implant, and surgical characteristics. Mean age at the time of surgery was 65.7 years (range 35.6-85.9 years), and mean postoperative follow-up was 28.7 months (range 24.4-58.9 months). Femoral head offset was the only evaluated factor shown to increase serum Co ion levels above baseline within the cohort. Mean difference in Co level for high and low offset implants was 0.58 ppb (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.05-1.11 ppb; P = .03). Mean difference in Cr level for high and low offset implants was 0.19 ppb (95% CI = -0.23 to 0.60 ppb; P = .37). Mean difference in Co level for small and large femoral heads was 0.20 ppb (95% CI = -0.41 to 0.81 ppb; P = .59). Mean difference in Cr level for small and large femoral heads was 0.28 ppb (95% CI = -0.18 to 0.74 ppb; P = .06). Age, gender, Harris Hip Score, and implant duration were not associated with changes in metal ion levels. Femoral head offset appears to be an important source of elevated metal ion levels in MOP THA. Further studies will be needed to understand if increasing femoral head offset is associated with subsequent adverse local tissue reactions. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  20. Finite Element Analysis for the Web Offset of Wind Turbine Blade

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhou, Bo; Wang, Xin; Zheng, Changwei; Cao, Jinxiang; Zou, Pingguo

    2017-05-01

    The web is an important part of wind turbine blade, which improves bending properties. Much of blade process is handmade, so web offset of wind turbine blade is one of common quality defects. In this paper, a 3D parametric finite element model of a blade for 2MW turbine was established by ANSYS. Stress distributions in different web offset values were studied. There were three kinds of web offset. The systematic study of web offset was done by orthogonal experiment. The most important factor of stress distributions was found. The analysis results have certain instructive significance to design and manufacture of wind turbine blade.

  1. 41 CFR 105-55.011 - Collection by administrative offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ....C. 3716 to collect a debt may not be conducted more than 10 years after the General Services.... (b) Mandatory centralized administrative offset. (1) GSA is required to refer past due, legally... debtor/payee in writing that an offset has occurred to satisfy, in part or in full, a past due, legally...

  2. 5 CFR 179.209 - Voluntary repayment agreement as alternative to salary offset.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... alternative to salary offset. 179.209 Section 179.209 Administrative Personnel OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT CIVIL SERVICE REGULATIONS CLAIMS COLLECTION STANDARDS Salary Offset § 179.209 Voluntary repayment agreement as alternative to salary offset. (a)(1) In response to a notice of intent, an employee may propose...

  3. THE NATURE OF ACTIVE GALACTIC NUCLEI WITH VELOCITY OFFSET EMISSION LINES

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Müller-Sánchez, F.; Comerford, J.; Stern, D.

    We obtained Keck/OSIRIS near-IR adaptive optics-assisted integral-field spectroscopy to probe the morphology and kinematics of the ionized gas in four velocity-offset active galactic nuclei (AGNs) from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. These objects possess optical emission lines that are offset in velocity from systemic as measured from stellar absorption features. At a resolution of ∼0.″18, OSIRIS allows us to distinguish which velocity offset emission lines are produced by the motion of an AGN in a dual supermassive black hole system, and which are produced by outflows or other kinematic structures. In three galaxies, J1018+2941, J1055+1520, and J1346+5228, the spectral offsetmore » of the emission lines is caused by AGN-driven outflows. In the remaining galaxy, J1117+6140, a counterrotating nuclear disk is observed that contains the peak of Pa α emission 0.″2 from the center of the galaxy. The most plausible explanation for the origin of this spatially and kinematically offset peak is that it is a region of enhanced Pa α emission located at the intersection zone between the nuclear disk and the bar of the galaxy. In all four objects, the peak of ionized gas emission is not spatially coincident with the center of the galaxy as traced by the peak of the near-IR continuum emission. The peaks of ionized gas emission are spatially offset from the galaxy centers by 0.″1–0.″4 (0.1–0.7 kpc). We find that the velocity offset originates at the location of this peak of emission, and the value of the offset can be directly measured in the velocity maps. The emission-line ratios of these four velocity-offset AGNs can be reproduced only with a mixture of shocks and AGN photoionization. Shocks provide a natural explanation for the origin of the spatially and spectrally offset peaks of ionized gas emission in these galaxies.« less

  4. Establishment of an effective oligotrophic cultivation system for Rhodococcus erythropolis N9T-4.

    PubMed

    Matsuoka, Tomohiro; Yoshida, Nobuyuki

    2018-06-03

    Rhodococcus erythropolis N9T-4 grows on an inorganic solid-state medium with no additional carbon and energy sources; however, it is unable to grow well in a liquid culture medium under the oligotrophic conditions. We examined submerged cultivations of N9T-4 using a polyurethane foam sponge to achieve approximately 10 times of the oligotrophic growth of the bacterium in the liquid culture medium.

  5. Onset and Offset as Determinants of the Simon Effect

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Riggio, Lucia; Gherri, Elena; Lupianez, Juan

    2012-01-01

    We investigated the presence and the characteristics of the Simon effect for onset and offset targets when these stimuli are randomly intermixed. In Experiment 1, two possible target locations were occupied by an occluder. On onset trials, a target appeared above an occluder, while on offset trials one of the occluders disappeared, revealing the…

  6. Methane emissions partially offset “blue carbon” burial in mangroves

    PubMed Central

    Maher, Damien T.

    2018-01-01

    Organic matter burial in mangrove forests results in the removal and long-term storage of atmospheric CO2, so-called “blue carbon.” However, some of this organic matter is metabolized and returned to the atmosphere as CH4. Because CH4 has a higher global warming potential than the CO2 fixed in the organic matter, it can offset the CO2 removed via carbon burial. We provide the first estimate of the global magnitude of this offset. Our results show that high CH4 evasion rates have the potential to partially offset blue carbon burial rates in mangrove sediments on average by 20% (sensitivity analysis offset range, 18 to 22%) using the 20-year global warming potential. Hence, mangrove sediment and water CH4 emissions should be accounted for in future blue carbon assessments.

  7. 22 CFR 213.22 - Salary offset when USAID is the creditor agency.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... 22 Foreign Relations 1 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Salary offset when USAID is the creditor agency. 213.22 Section 213.22 Foreign Relations AGENCY FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT CLAIMS COLLECTION Administrative Offset § 213.22 Salary offset when USAID is the creditor agency. (a) Due process requirements...

  8. 22 CFR 213.22 - Salary offset when USAID is the creditor agency.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... 22 Foreign Relations 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Salary offset when USAID is the creditor agency. 213.22 Section 213.22 Foreign Relations AGENCY FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT CLAIMS COLLECTION Administrative Offset § 213.22 Salary offset when USAID is the creditor agency. (a) Due process requirements...

  9. 22 CFR 213.22 - Salary offset when USAID is the creditor agency.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-04-01

    ... 22 Foreign Relations 1 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Salary offset when USAID is the creditor agency. 213.22 Section 213.22 Foreign Relations AGENCY FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT CLAIMS COLLECTION Administrative Offset § 213.22 Salary offset when USAID is the creditor agency. (a) Due process requirements...

  10. 22 CFR 213.22 - Salary offset when USAID is the creditor agency.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... 22 Foreign Relations 1 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Salary offset when USAID is the creditor agency. 213.22 Section 213.22 Foreign Relations AGENCY FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT CLAIMS COLLECTION Administrative Offset § 213.22 Salary offset when USAID is the creditor agency. (a) Due process requirements...

  11. 38 CFR 1.991 - Procedures for salary offset: when deductions may begin.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 38 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Procedures for salary offset: when deductions may begin. 1.991 Section 1.991 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS GENERAL PROVISIONS Salary Offset Provisions § 1.991 Procedures for salary offset...

  12. Relationship Between Acoustic Voice Onset and Offset and Selected Instances of Oscillatory Onset and Offset in Young Healthy Men and Women.

    PubMed

    Patel, Rita R; Forrest, Karen; Hedges, Drew

    2017-05-01

    This study aimed to investigate the relationship between (1) onset of the acoustic signal (X 1 a ) and prephonatory phases associated with oscillatory onset and (2) offset of the acoustic signal (X 2 a ) with the postphonatory events associated with oscillatory offset across vocally healthy adults. High-speed videoendoscopy was captured simultaneously with the acoustic signal during repeated production of /hi.hi.hi/ at typical pitch and loudness from 56 vocally healthy adults (aged 20-42 years; 21 men, 35 women). The relationships between the acoustic sound pressure signal and oscillatory onset and offset events from the glottal area waveforms (GAWs) were statistically investigated using a multivariate linear regression analysis. The X 1 a is a significant predictor of the onset of first oscillatory motion (X 1 g ) and onset of sustained oscillations (X 2 g ). X 1 a as well as gender are significant predictors of the first medial contact of the vocal folds (X 1.5 g ). The X 2 a is a significant predictor of the first instance of oscillatory offset (X 3 g ), first instance of incomplete glottal closure (X 3.5 g ), and complete cessation of (vocal fold) oscillatory motion (X 4 g ). The acoustic signal onset is closely related to the X 1.5 g , but the latency between these events is longer for women compared to men. The X 2 a occurs immediately after incomplete glottal adduction. The emerging normative group latencies between the onset and offset of the acoustic and the GAW from this study appear promising for future investigations. Copyright © 2017 The Voice Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Sagittal back motion of college football athletes and nonathletes.

    PubMed

    Strong, L R; Titlow, L

    1997-08-01

    The study was designed as an ex post facto study using volunteers. To compare sagittal back motion of male college athletes with that of nonathletes and to compare data from both groups with normative data. Few studies have evaluated athletic demands on the spine. Much of the information on athletic demands comes from electromyographic studies, flexibility comparisons, and lift task studies. Although these studies provide a basis for back testing and evaluation, they do not present direct evidence of athletic low back performance. Fifteen male college football athletes and 15 male college nonathletes volunteered for testing using the IsoStation B-200 BSCAN 2.0 protocol (Isotechnologies, Inc., Hillsborough, NC). Measures were recorded for range of motion, isometric flexion and extension, and moderate and high dynamic flexion and extension. Data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of variance. The results of Hotelling's multivariate test were significant. Univariate follow-up analysis showed that athletes had significantly better isometric flexion, isometric extension, moderate dynamic flexion, high dynamic flexion, and high dynamic extension. Athletic data were compared with the BSCAN population data at the 50th and 80th percentile. Athletes were significantly better (P < 0.007) for all variables at the 50th percentile and for all dynamic variables at the 80th percentile. Within the limitations of the study, college football athletes had better sagittal back motion strength and speed as tested with the B-200 than nonathletes. Population data for the B-200 were representative for nonathletes but nonrepresentative for football players.

  14. Association of baseline knee sagittal dynamic joint stiffness during gait and 2-year patellofemoral cartilage damage worsening in knee osteoarthritis.

    PubMed

    Chang, A H; Chmiel, J S; Almagor, O; Guermazi, A; Prasad, P V; Moisio, K C; Belisle, L; Zhang, Y; Hayes, K; Sharma, L

    2017-02-01

    Knee sagittal dynamic joint stiffness (DJS) describes the biomechanical interaction between change in external knee flexion moment and flexion angular excursion during gait. In theory, greater DJS may particularly stress the patellofemoral (PF) compartment and thereby contribute to PF osteoarthritis (OA) worsening. We hypothesized that greater baseline knee sagittal DJS is associated with PF cartilage damage worsening 2 years later. Participants all had OA in at least one knee. Knee kinematics and kinetics during gait were recorded using motion capture systems and force plates. Knee sagittal DJS was computed as the slope of the linear regression line for knee flexion moments vs angles during the loading response phase. Knee magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans were obtained at baseline and 2 years later. We assessed the association between baseline DJS and baseline-to-2-year PF cartilage damage worsening using logistic regression with generalized estimating equations (GEE). Our sample had 391 knees (204 persons): mean age 64.2 years (SD 10.0); body mass index (BMI) 28.4 kg/m 2 (5.7); 76.5% women. Baseline knee sagittal DJS was associated with baseline-to-2-year cartilage damage worsening in the lateral (OR = 5.35, 95% CI: 2.37-12.05) and any PF (OR = 2.99, 95% CI: 1.27-7.04) compartment. Individual components of baseline DJS (i.e., change in knee moment or angle) were not associated with subsequent PF disease worsening. Capturing the concomitant effect of knee kinetics and kinematics during gait, knee sagittal DJS is a potentially modifiable risk factor for PF disease worsening. Copyright © 2016 Osteoarthritis Research Society International. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  15. Global analysis of sagittal spinal alignment in major deformities: correlation between lack of lumbar lordosis and flexion of the knee.

    PubMed

    Obeid, Ibrahim; Hauger, Olivier; Aunoble, Stéphane; Bourghli, Anouar; Pellet, Nicolas; Vital, Jean-Marc

    2011-09-01

    It has become well recognised that sagittal balance of the spine is the result of an interaction between the spine and the pelvis. Knee flexion is considered to be the last compensatory mechanism in case of sagittal imbalance, but only few studies have insisted on the relationship between spino-pelvic parameters and lower extremity parameters. Correlation between the lack of lumbar lordosis and knee flexion has not yet been established. A retrospective study was carried out on 28 patients with major spinal deformities. The EOS system was used to measure spinal and pelvic parameters and the knee flexion angle; the lack of lumbar lordosis was calculated after prediction of lumbar lordosis with two different formulas. Correlation analysis between the different measured parameters was performed. Lumbar lordosis correlated with sacral slope (r = -0.71) and moderately with knee flexion angle (r = 0.42). Pelvic tilt correlated moderately with knee flexion angle (r = 0.55). Lack of lumbar lordosis correlated best with knee flexion angle (r = 0.72 and r = 0.63 using the two formulas, respectively). Knee flexion as a compensatory mechanism to sagittal imbalance was well correlated to the lack of lordosis and, depending on the importance of the former parameter, the best procedure to correct sagittal imbalance could be chosen.

  16. Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells Inhibit the Function of Allogeneic Activated Vγ9Vδ2 T Lymphocytes In Vitro

    PubMed Central

    Liu, Xiaohuan; Feng, Ting; Gong, Tianxiang; Shen, Chongyang; Zhu, Tingting; Wu, Qihong; Li, Qiang; Li, Hong

    2015-01-01

    Background. Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) can regulate the function of immune cells. However, whether and how UC-MSCs can modulate the function of Vγ9Vδ2 T cells has not been fully understood. Methods. The PBMCs or Vγ9Vδ2 T cells were activated and expanded with pamidronate (PAM) and interleukin-2 (IL-2) with or without the presence UC-MSCs. The effects of UC-MSCs on the proliferation, cytokine expression, and cytotoxicity of Vγ9Vδ2 T cells were determined by flow cytometry. The effects of UC-MSCs on Fas-L, TRAIL-expressing Vγ9Vδ2 T cells, and Vγ9Vδ2 T cell apoptosis were determined by flow cytometry. Results. UC-MSCs inhibited Vγ9Vδ2 T cell proliferation in a dose-dependent but cell-contact independent manner. Coculture with UC-MSCs reduced the frequency of IFNγ+ but increased granzyme B+ Vγ9Vδ2 T cells. UC-MSCs inhibited the cytotoxicity of Vγ9Vδ2 T cells against influenza virus H1N1 infected A549 cells and also reduced the frequency of Fas-L+, TRAIL+ Vγ9Vδ2 T cells but failed to modulate the apoptosis of Vγ9Vδ2 T cells. Conclusions. These results indicated that UC-MSCs efficiently suppressed the proliferation and cytotoxicity of Vγ9Vδ2 T cells and modulated their cytokine production. Fas-L and TRAIL were involved in the regulation. Cell contact and apoptosis of Vγ9Vδ2 T cells were not necessary for the inhibition. PMID:25984529

  17. MD simulation of the Tat/Cyclin T1/CDK9 complex revealing the hidden catalytic cavity within the CDK9 molecule upon Tat binding.

    PubMed

    Asamitsu, Kaori; Hirokawa, Takatsugu; Okamoto, Takashi

    2017-01-01

    In this study, we applied molecular dynamics (MD) simulation to analyze the dynamic behavior of the Tat/CycT1/CDK9 tri-molecular complex and revealed the structural changes of P-TEFb upon Tat binding. We found that Tat could deliberately change the local flexibility of CycT1. Although the structural coordinates of the H1 and H2 helices did not substantially change, H1', H2', and H3' exhibited significant changes en masse. Consequently, the CycT1 residues involved in Tat binding, namely Tat-recognition residues (TRRs), lost their flexibility with the addition of Tat to P-TEFb. In addition, we clarified the structural variation of CDK9 in complex with CycT1 in the presence or absence of Tat. Interestingly, Tat addition significantly reduced the structural variability of the T-loop, thus consolidating the structural integrity of P-TEFb. Finally, we deciphered the formation of the hidden catalytic cavity of CDK9 upon Tat binding. MD simulation revealed that the PITALRE signature sequence of CDK9 flips the inactive kinase cavity of CDK9 into the active form by connecting with Thr186, which is crucial for its activity, thus presumably recruiting the substrate peptide such as the C-terminal domain of RNA pol II. These findings provide vital information for the development of effective novel anti-HIV drugs with CDK9 catalytic activity as the target.

  18. Diagnostic value of T1 and T2 * relaxation times and off-resonance saturation effects in the evaluation of Achilles tendinopathy by MRI at 3T.

    PubMed

    Grosse, Ulrich; Syha, Roland; Hein, Tobias; Gatidis, Sergios; Grözinger, Gerd; Schabel, Christoph; Martirosian, Petros; Schick, Fritz; Springer, Fabian

    2015-04-01

    To evaluate and compare the diagnostic value of T1 , T2 * relaxation times and off-resonance saturation ratios (OSR) in healthy controls and patients with different clinical and morphological stages of Achilles tendinopathy. Forty-two healthy Achilles tendons and 34 tendons of 17 patients with symptomatic and asymptomatic tendinopathy were investigated clinically with conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequences on a 3T whole-body MR scanner and a dynamic ultrasound examination. In addition, T1 and T2 * relaxation times were assessed using an ultrashort echo time (UTE) imaging sequence with flip angle and echo time variation. For the calculation of OSR values a Gaussian off-resonance saturation pulse (frequency offset: 750-5000 Hz) was used. The diagnostic value of the derived MR values was assessed and compared using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. ROC curves demonstrate the highest overall test performance for OSR values at 2000 Hz off-resonance in differentiating slightly (OSR-2000 [AUC: 0.930] > T2 * [AUC: 0.884] > T1 [AUC: 0.737]) and more severe pathologically altered tendon areas (OSR-2000 [AUC: 0.964] > T2 * [AUC: 0.917] > T1 [AUC: 0.819]) from healthy ones. OSR values at a frequency offset of 2000 Hz demonstrated a better sensitivity and specificity for detecting mild and severe stages of tendinopathy compared to T2 * and particularly when compared to T1 relaxation times. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  19. Evolution of the postoperative sagittal spinal profile in early-onset scoliosis: is there a difference between rib-based and spine-based growth-friendly instrumentation?

    PubMed

    Chen, Zhonghui; Li, Song; Qiu, Yong; Zhu, Zezhang; Chen, Xi; Xu, Liang; Sun, Xu

    2017-12-01

    OBJECTIVE Although the vertical expandable prosthetic titanium rib (VEPTR) and growing rod instrumentation (GRI) encourage spinal growth via regular lengthening, they can create different results because of their different fixation patterns and mechanisms in correcting scoliosis. Previous studies have focused comparisons on coronal plane deformity with minimal attention to the sagittal profile. In this retrospective study, the authors aimed to compare the evolution of the sagittal spinal profile in early-onset scoliosis (EOS) treated with VEPTR versus GRI. METHODS The data for 11 patients with VEPTR and 22 with GRI were reviewed. All patients had more than 2 years' follow-up with more than 2 lengthening procedures. Radiographic measurements were performed before and after the index surgery and at the latest follow-up. The complications in both groups were recorded. RESULTS Patients in both groups had similar diagnoses, age at the index surgery, and number of lengthening procedures. The changes in the major coronal Cobb angle and T1-S1 spinal height were not significantly different between the 2 groups. Compared with the GRI group, the VEPTR group had less correction in thoracic kyphosis (23% ± 12% vs 44% ± 16%, p < 0.001) after the index surgery and experienced a greater correction loss in thoracic kyphosis (46% ± 18% vs 11% ± 8%, p < 0.001) at the latest follow-up. Although the increase in the proximal junctional angle was not significantly different (VEPTR: 7° ± 4° vs GRI: 8° ± 5°, p = 0.569), the incidence of proximal junctional kyphosis was relatively lower in the VEPTR group (VEPTR: 18.2% vs GRI: 22.7%). No significant changes in the spinopelvic parameters were observed, while the sagittal vertical axis showed a tendency toward a neutral position in both groups. The overall complication rate was higher in the VEPTR group than in the GRI group (72.7% vs 54.5%). CONCLUSIONS The VEPTR had coronal correction and spinal growth results similar to those

  20. 24 CFR 17.134 - Procedures for salary offset: when deductions may begin.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 24 Housing and Urban Development 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Procedures for salary offset: when deductions may begin. 17.134 Section 17.134 Housing and Urban Development Office of the Secretary, Department... Government Salary Offset Provisions § 17.134 Procedures for salary offset: when deductions may begin. (a...