Embolisation of Vertebral Artery Damaged Following Cervical Disc Removal

Introduction: The incidence of vertebral artery (VA) injury during cervical spine surgery is rare. Even though tamponade is effective in many cases, early consultation of an endovascular team is recommended if bleeding cannot be controlled. We report a case of emergent endovascular embolisation of left VA due to iatrogenic injury during anterior cervical disc removal and fusion. Case: A 47-year-old woman was admitted to our emergency department with serious arterial bleeding from the neck only hours after undergoing anterior cervical disc removal and fusion surgery. She was intubated and mechanically ventilated, however hemorrhage could not be successfully controlled by packing with surgical hemostatic agents. Cranial computed tomography, computed tomography of the cervical spine and CT angiography confirmed the suspected diagnosis of injury to the VA. Emergent endovascular embolisation successfully stopped the bleeding. Occlusion of the vessel was achieved by vascular plugging. The patient was discharged from our hospital 14 days after the intervention, receiving a revision surgery of the cervical spine on the day of embolisation. At the date of discharge she presented without any focal neurological deficit. Conclusion: Pre-operative radiographic imaging of the cervical spine should be used routinely to identify anatomic abnormalities of the vertebral arteries. Endovascular embolisation appears to be effective in treating acute iatrogenic dissection of the vertebral arteries.

La maquinaria política funciona, pero la formula no la dan

Fondo Margaritainés Restrepo

Factors associated with an increased risk of vertebral fracture in monoclonal gammopathies of undetermined significance

International audience

Chebanov law and Vakar formula in mathematical models of complex systems

Ecological models written in a mathematical language L(M) or model language, with a given style or methodology can be considered as a text. It is possible to apply statistical linguistic laws and the experimental results demonstrate that the behaviour of a mathematical model is the same of any literary text of any natural language. A text has the following characteristics: (a) the variables, its transformed functions and parameters are the lexic units or LUN of ecological models; (b) the syllables are constituted by a LUN, or a chain of them, separated by operating or ordering LUNs; (c) the flow equations are words; and (d) the distribution of words (LUM and CLUN) according to their lengths is based on a Poisson distribution, the Chebanov's law. It is founded on Vakar's formula, that is calculated likewise the linguistic entropy for L(M). We will apply these ideas over practical examples using MARIOLA model. In this paper it will be studied the problem of the lengths of the simple lexic units composed lexic units and words of text models, expressing these lengths in number of the primitive symbols, and syllables. The use of these linguistic laws renders it possible to indicate the degree of information given by an ecological model.

Projeto de chassis para Formula Student

Neste trabalho é relatado o processo de projeto de um chassis para um veículo de Formula Student. Ao longo do relatório são abordados aspetos regulamentares, requisitos e objetivos técnicos, a interligação com os diversos sistemas do veículo, os aspetos relacionados com o projeto da estrutura, métodos de modelação para análise com recurso ao método dos elementos finitos, e por fim a análise dos esforços aplicados ao chassis e a validação do mesmo.

Age and growth of the bigeye thresher shark, Alopias superciliosus, from the pelagic longline fisheries in the tropical northeastern Atlantic Ocean, determined by vertebral band counts

The bigeye thresher, Alopias supercilious, is commonly caught as bycatch in pelagic longline fisheries targeting swordfish. Little information is yet available on the biology of this species, however. As part of an ongoing study, observers sent aboard fishing vessels have been collecting set of information that includes samples of vertebrae, with the aim of investigating age and growth of A. supercilious. A total of 117 specimens were sampled between September 2008 and October 2009 in the tropical northeastern Atlantic, with specimens ranging from 101 to 242 cm fork length (FL) (176 to 407 cm total length). The A. supercilious vertebrae were generally difficult to read, mainly because they were poorly calcified, which is typical of Lamniformes sharks. Preliminary trials were carried out to determine the most efficient band enhancement technique for this species, in which crystal violet section staining was found to be the best methodology. Estimated ages in this sample ranged from 2 to 22 years for females and 1 to 17 years for males. A version of the von Bertalanffy growth model (VBGF) re-parameterised to estimate L(0), and a modified VBGF using a fixed L(0) were fitted to the data. The Akaike information criterion (AIC) was used to compare these models. The VBGF produced the best results, with the following parameters: L(inf) = 293 cm FL, k = 0.06 y(-1) and L(0) = 111 cm FL for females; L(inf) = 206 cm FL, k = 0.18 y(-1) and L(0) = 93 cm FL for males. The estimated growth coefficients confirm that A. supercilious is a slow-growing species, highlighting its vulnerability to fishing pressure. It is therefore urgent to carry out more biological research to inform fishery managers more adequately and address conservation issues.

Age and growth of the smooth hammerhead shark, Sphyrna zygaena, in the Eastern Equatorial Atlantic Ocean, using vertebral sections

The smooth hammerhead shark Sphyrna zygaena (Sphyrnidae) is regularly caught as bycatch in pelagic longline fisheries, but is one of the least studied of all pelagic sharks. Recently, ICCAT (International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas) issued recommendations underlining the need for more studies on the life history parameters of this and other pelagic shark species. To this end, the age and growth of S. zygaena were studied in the Eastern Equatorial Atlantic Ocean, in an area where growth parameters were not yet available for this species. Data from 139 specimens, caught between June and September 2009, ranging in size from 136 to 233 cm fork length (FL), were analysed. Preliminary trials were carried out to assess the most efficient growth band enhancement technique. These indicated that sectioning the vertebrae into 500 μm sections followed by staining with crystal violet produced the best results. Growth models were fitted using the traditional von Bertalanffy growth equation and a modification of this equation using a known size at birth. Growth models were compared using the Akaike information criterion (AIC). The von Bertalanffy growth equation seemed to be the most adequate model to describe growth in this species, with resulting growth parameters of L inf = 272 cm FL, k = 0.06 year for males and L inf = 285 cm FL, k = 0.07 year for females. In the first four years of life, S. zygaena grows 25 cm per year on average, but its growth slows down in later life. Future stock assessment models should incorporate these age and growth parameters for species management and conservation.

Congenital thoracic vertebral malformations in brachycephalic “screw-tailed” dog breeds: Validation of a human classification scheme and a method of Cobb angle measurement in the assessment of vertebral column deformity

Congenital vertebral malformations are common in brachycephalic “screw-tailed” dog breeds such as French bulldogs, English bulldogs, Boston terriers, and Pugs. Those vertebral malformations disrupt the normal vertebral column anatomy and biomechanics, potentially leading to deformity of the vertebral column and subsequent neurological dysfunction. The initial aim of this work was to study and determine whether the congenital vertebral malformations identified in those breeds could be translated in a radiographic classification scheme used in humans to give an improved classification, with clear and well-defined terminology, with the expectation that this would facilitate future study and clinical management in the veterinary field. Therefore, two observers who were blinded to the neurologic status of the dogs classified each vertebral malformation based on the human classification scheme of McMaster and were able to translate them successfully into a new classification scheme for veterinary use. The following aim was to assess the nature and the impact of vertebral column deformity engendered by those congenital vertebral malformations in the target breeds. As no gold standard exists in veterinary medicine for the calculation of the degree of deformity, it was elected to adapt the human equivalent, termed the Cobb angle, as a potential standard reference tool for use in veterinary practice. For the validation of the Cobb angle measurement method, a computerised semi-automatic technique was used and assessed by multiple independent observers. They observed not only that Kyphosis was the most common vertebral column deformity but also that patients with such deformity were found to be more likely to suffer from neurological deficits, more especially if their Cobb angle was above 35 degrees.

Analisi vibroacustica di un sistema di scarico per monoposto Formula SAE

Lo scopo del presente lavoro è quello di determinare una metodologia di analisi vibroacustica di validità generale applicabile a tutti i casi nei quali la forzante sia di tipo vibrazionale. Nello specifico si è analizzato il comportamento strutturale e acustico di un impianto di scarico di una monoposto Formula SAE. Ricorrendo all’analisi FEM (Finite Element Method) è possibile determinare e quantificare gli effetti dannosi causati dalle vibrazioni già nella fase di prototipazione permettendo una sostanziale riduzione dei tempi e costi. La determinazione del comportamento strutturale del modello alle vibrazioni è iniziata dall’analisi modale, grazie alla quale sono state determinate le frequenze naturali e i modi propri dell’impianto di scarico. Successivamente, l’analisi FRF (Frequency Response Function) ha permesso di conoscere la risposta del nostro sistema ad una forzante imposta mettendo in luce le diverse criticità strutturali. Con il presupposto di ottenere delle condizioni di carico che fossero il più vicine possibili alle normali condizioni operative si è impostata un’analisi PSD (Power Spectral Density). Per concludere la prima parte dell’analisi si è reso necessario indagare anche il comportamento a fatica vibrazionale, valutando in questo modo le zone soggette a vita finita e quindi le prime a cedere in fase di esercizio. La parte finale è stata dedicata all’analisi del rumore. Dall’analisi FRF si è determinata la SPL (Sound Pressure Level) ottenendo come output un valore di pressione sonora prodotto dall’effetto della propagazione delle onde di pressione generate dalla vibrazione strutturale dell’impianto di scarico. Infine, l’analisi di Transmission Loss ha permesso di valutare l’efficacia della geometria del silenziatore sulla riduzione del livello acustico generato dal transito dei gas di scarico alle diverse frequenze.

Comparison of different solutions for the hybridization of a motorcycle engine for Formula Student applications and evaluation of the effectiveness on the simulated lap time

Following the latest environmental concerns, the importance of minimising the detrimental effect of emissions of terrestrial vehicles has become a major goal for the whole automotive field. The key to achieve an emission-free long term future is the electrification of vehicle fleets; this huge step cannot be taken without intermediate technologies. In this context, hybrid vehicles are fundamental to reach this goal. Specifically, mild hybrid vehicles represent a trade-off between cost and emissions that could act now as a bridge towards electrification. Like the industry, also student engineering competitions are likely to take the same route: Combustion vehicles may well turn into hybrid vehicles. For this reason, a preliminary design overview is necessary to pinpoint the key performance indicators for the prototypes of the future.

Órteses para a coluna vertebral e suas aplicações

Este vídeo integra o curso Uso Terapêutico de Tecnologias Assistivas. Discute sobre os diversos tipos de órteses para a coluna vertebral e suas aplicações. Exibe a prescrição de órteses para coluna vertebral de acordo com nível e tipo da lesão. Além disso, apresenta os cuidados gerais relativos ao uso de coletes.

The Basic Reproduction Number Obtained From Jacobian And Next Generation Matrices - A Case Study Of Dengue Transmission Modelling.

The basic reproduction number is a key parameter in mathematical modelling of transmissible diseases. From the stability analysis of the disease free equilibrium, by applying Routh-Hurwitz criteria, a threshold is obtained, which is called the basic reproduction number. However, the application of spectral radius theory on the next generation matrix provides a different expression for the basic reproduction number, that is, the square root of the previously found formula. If the spectral radius of the next generation matrix is defined as the geometric mean of partial reproduction numbers, however the product of these partial numbers is the basic reproduction number, then both methods provide the same expression. In order to show this statement, dengue transmission modelling incorporating or not the transovarian transmission is considered as a case study. Also tuberculosis transmission and sexually transmitted infection modellings are taken as further examples.

Evaluation Of Red Cell And Reticulocyte Parameters As Indicative Of Iron Deficiency In Patients With Anemia Of Chronic Disease.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of mature red cell and reticulocyte parameters under three conditions: iron deficiency anemia, anemia of chronic disease, and anemia of chronic disease associated with absolute iron deficiency. Peripheral blood cells from 117 adult patients with anemia were classified according to iron status, and inflammatory activity, and the results of a hemoglobinopathy investigation as: iron deficiency anemia (n=42), anemia of chronic disease (n=28), anemia of chronic disease associated with iron deficiency anemia (n=22), and heterozygous β thalassemia (n=25). The percentage of microcytic red cells, hypochromic red cells, and levels of hemoglobin content in both reticulocytes and mature red cells were determined. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was used to evaluate the accuracy of the parameters in differentiating between the different types of anemia. There was no significant difference between the iron deficient group and anemia of chronic disease associated with absolute iron deficiency in respect to any parameter. The percentage of hypochromic red cells was the best parameter to discriminate anemia of chronic disease with and without absolute iron deficiency (area under curve=0.785; 95% confidence interval: 0.661-0.909, with sensitivity of 72.7%, and specificity of 70.4%; cut-off value 1.8%). The formula microcytic red cells minus hypochromic red cells was very accurate in differentiating iron deficiency anemia and heterozygous β thalassemia (area under curve=0.977; 95% confidence interval: 0.950-1.005; with sensitivity of 96.2%, and specificity of 92.7%; cut-off value 13.8). The indices related to red cells and reticulocytes have a moderate performance in identifying absolute iron deficiency in patients with anemia of chronic disease.

Direct And Non-destructive Proof Of Authenticity For The 2nd Generation Of Brazilian Real Banknotes Via Easy Ambient Sonic Spray Ionization Mass Spectrometry.

Using a desorption/ionization technique, easy ambient sonic-spray ionization coupled to mass spectrometry (EASI-MS), documents related to the 2nd generation of Brazilian Real currency (R$) were screened in the positive ion mode for authenticity based on chemical profiles obtained directly from the banknote surface. Characteristic profiles were observed for authentic, seized suspect counterfeit and counterfeited homemade banknotes from inkjet and laserjet printers. The chemicals in the authentic banknotes' surface were detected via a few minor sets of ions, namely from the plasticizers bis(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) and dibutyl phthalate (DBP), most likely related to the official offset printing process, and other common quaternary ammonium cations, presenting a similar chemical profile to 1st-generation R$. The seized suspect counterfeit banknotes, however, displayed abundant diagnostic ions in the m/z 400-800 range due to the presence of oligomers. High-accuracy FT-ICR MS analysis enabled molecular formula assignment for each ion. The ions were separated by 44 m/z, which enabled their characterization as Surfynol® 4XX (S4XX, XX=40, 65, and 85), wherein increasing XX values indicate increasing amounts of ethoxylation on a backbone of 2,4,7,9-tetramethyl-5-decyne-4,7-diol (Surfynol® 104). Sodiated triethylene glycol monobutyl ether (TBG) of m/z 229 (C10H22O4Na) was also identified in the seized counterfeit banknotes via EASI(+) FT-ICR MS. Surfynol® and TBG are constituents of inks used for inkjet printing.