Search

• Results unveil the presence of thermodynamically stable Ag-H compounds. • P3 ̅m1 symmetry, emerges as the thermodynamically stable phase at 100 GPa. • Trigonal-Ag 2 H phase at 100 GPa demonstrates both mechanical and dynamic stability. • Metallic nature of the resulting Ag2H compound. • Ionic character of Ag 2 H and absence of superconducting behavior at high-pressure. Silver, typically acknowledged for its inertness toward hydrogen under standard conditions, exhibits a noteworthy shift in reactivity under elevated pressures. Employing first-principles variable-composition evolutionary search calculations, our investigation unveils the presence of thermodynamically stable Ag-H compounds. A novel stoichiometry, Ag 2 H, characterized by P 3 ¯ m 1 symmetry, emerges as the thermodynamically stable phase at 100 GPa. Notably, the trigonal-Ag 2 H phase at 100 GPa demonstrates both mechanical and dynamic stability, as ascertained through the computation of elastic constants and phonon dispersions, respectively. Examination of the electronic band structure and density of states manifests the metallic nature of the resulting Ag 2 H compound. A comprehensive analysis involving crystal orbital bond index, Bader charge, and charge density plots substantiates the ionic character of Ag 2 H, attributable to effective charge transfer from silver atoms to hydrogen. Furthermore, application of the Allen-Dynes modified McMillan equation indicates the absence of superconducting behavior in Ag-H systems at the elevated pressure of 100 GPa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the intuitive placement of titanium miniplates. The hypothesis was that virtual planning can improve miniplate placement. Twenty patients were included in the study. These patients were fitted with 21 titanium miniplates (16 y-plates, three t-plates, and two u-plates) to retain nasal prostheses between 2005 and 2017. Colour-coded topographic bone thickness maps (TBTMs) were created in fused pre- and postoperative computed tomography. Implants were virtually transposed at the position of highest bone thickness. The bone thickness index (BTI) was calculated as the sum of points assigned at each screw (1 point per millimetre up to 4 mm, and 5 points for greater values) divided by the number of screws. One plate broke after 2.8 years, thus plate survival after 5 years was 91% using the Kaplan–Meier method. The BTI for all 21 plates increased from 3.4 to 4.1 points using virtual transposition (P < 0.001). No significant changes were observed in t- and u-plates, but the median BTI increased from 3.1 to 4.1 points (P < 0.0005) in 16 y-plates. The change was substantial (≥0.5 points) in 9/16 y-plates. Therefore, the hypothesis that virtual planning improves implant placement was accepted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surgery for early-stage squamous cell carcinoma of the nasal vestibule (SCCNV) may lead to facial disfigurement. We wanted to investigate if skin-preserving excision of SCCNV with reconstruction is oncologically, aesthetically, and functionally justifiable in cases with proximity to the skin. From 2010 to 2016, 16 patients underwent skin-preserving excision of T1–2 N0 SCCNV by a lateral rhinotomy approach at a tertiary referral center. The inner nose was reconstructed using a mucoperichondrial septal flap for the inner lining and a septal pivot flap and/or auricular cartilage grafting for the framework. Nasal appearance was measured on pre- and postoperative photographs. Median follow-up was 5.4 years. Three (19%) patients received adjuvant radiotherapy. Two (12.5%) recurrences occurred locally, but not at the site of preserved skin. The Kaplan–Meier estimate of local control rate after 5 years was 83%. All patients could be salvaged, giving an ultimate control rate of 100%. Nasal tip projection decreased by 6.7% (p < 0.001), and it was retained normal or near normal in 87.5% of patients. Nasal axis changed by 1.7° (p = 0.5). Nasal deviation occurred in 6.25% (1/16) of patients, and minor alar retraction in 6.25% of patients (1/16). Nasal breathing was normal or close to normal in 75% (12/16) of patients. Skin-preserving excision of SCCNV is oncologically justifiable in selected cases even in proximity to nasal skin. Early inner nasal reconstruction preserves nasal form and function to a high degree. This technique is a suitable alternative to rhinectomy and to avoid the sequelae of radiotherapy in selected cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our aim was to investigate the bone thickness at the site of titanium miniplates inserted to retain nasal prostheses. We studied 13 patients who had had titanium miniplates inserted for retention of nasal prostheses with a total of 60 titanium bone screws. A trajectory along each bone screw was segmented in fused computed tomographic (CT) data. Bone thickness was measured along this trajectory on the preoperative CT. The median bone thickness at the positions of the screws implanted on the frontal process of the maxillary bone was 1.4 (range 0.2–6.9) mm (mean 1.8). The median (range) values for men and women were 1.4 (0.2–6.9) mm and 1.3 (0.2–3.3) mm, respectively. The thickest bone was at the cranial part of the frontal process of the maxilla with a median of 2.0 (range 0.3–4.1) mm. However, differences in sex and position were not significant. None of the implant miniplates lost osseointegration. Despite the low bone stock at the lateral aspect of the pyriform aperture, survival of implanted titanium miniplates was 100% in this study group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital transformation is a worldwide topical issue, of major importance for all companies in all sectors, as it changes customer relationships, internal processes, and value creation. The main concern of the stakeholders in this transformation is defining a vision and roadmap that determine the way forward. So how can companies successfully lead digital transformation? In this regard, the paper's aim is supporting the companies in their digital transformation journey by initiating a reflection on the digital transformation processes that uses a literature review to better capture the concept and identify the different proposals for digital transformation roadmaps. The approach adopted in this paper, consists of pre-selecting papers based on a number of keywords around digital transformation processes. Identifying and studying the scientific and white papers presenting a clear and exploitable digital transformation process. Determining the necessary steps to transform digitally a company and organizing them into categories of phases on which we can capitalize to design a digital transformation process. This work allowed spotlighting the strategic character of the digital transformation, and above all to grasp the multidimensional reach of it. The purpose behind this is to foster debate on how to digitize a business and to enrich our vision with existing roadmaps to build an alternative process to digital transformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The present work reviews the lithostratigraphy, biostratigraphy, and sedimentology of the Cenomanian–Turonian interval across the Tinrhert Plateau (southeastern Algeria). Five stratigraphic units, previously presented as informal units, are formally defined: the Mazoula (lower–middle Cenomanian), the Bordj Omar Driss (upper Cenomanian–lower Turonian), the In Adaoui (lower Turonian), the Ben Houilet (lower–middle Turonian), and the Takouazet (upper Turonian) formations. The Mazoula Formation consists of gypsiferous marls with a few bioclastic horizons. The Bordj Omar Driss Formation comprises three informal units: (a) the lower limestone unit composed of hard bioclastic limestones containing bivalves (mostly oysters), gastropods, and echinoids, (b) the middle limestone unit consisting of limestone, with an abundance of bivalves, gastropods, echinoids, ammonoids, and benthic foraminifers, (c) the upper limestone unit dominated by fine-grained limestones containing abundant ammonites, planktic foraminifers, and roveacrinids. The In Adaoui Formation is characterized by rich-ammonite limestone beds interbedded with yellowish-greenish marls. The Ben Houilet Formation can be subdivided informally into three units: (a) the mixed siliciclastic-carbonate unit composed of green marls interbedded with sandstones and bioclastic limestones; (b) the marly-limestone unit; (c) the gypsum and red beds unit. The Takouazet Formation is of indurated limestone beds devoid of fossils. The investigated succession is subdivided into four ammonite biozones: the Neolobites vibrayeanus , the Nigericeras gadeni , the Vascoceras cauvini , and the Pseudotissotia nigeriensis-Choffaticeras sinaiticum zones. The Cenomanian–Turonian boundary is located at the limit between the Bordj Omar Driss and In Adaoui Formations, coincident with the base of the Pseudotissotia nigeriensis-Choffaticeras sinaiticum Zone. The studied succession shows the development of a ramp depositional system in response to the early Late Cretaceous second-order sea-level rise at the southern margin of the Tethys. Sequence-stratigraphic surfaces and system tracts are identified and tracked across the Tinrhert Plateau resulting in a detailed reconstruction. Four sedimentary unconformities (SB Tin 1-4) are recognized and tracked laterally, defining three third-order depositional sequences (DS Tin 1-3). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Cenomanian–Turonian succession (C–T) outcropping in the Tinrhert Basin, in the southeastern part of Algeria, has been the focus of many studies since the turn of the 19th century. In the present research, new C–T sections have been scrutinized over a distance of approximately 300 km, from Gour Ben Houilet in the west to Oued In Adaoui in the east. More than 1.700 ammonites and nautilids were collected bed-by-bed and 30 taxa subsequently identified; these are systematically described and illustrated herein. Thirteen of them [ Placenticeras cf. kaffrarium Etheridge, Metengonoceras dumbli (Cragin), Calycoceras ( Proeucalycoceras ) sp., Pseudaspidoceras pseudonodosoides (Choffat) , Vascoceras aff . glabrum (Barber) , Rubroceras burroense Cobban, Hook and Kennedy, Fagesia peroni Pervinquière , Eotissotia simplex Barber , Hoplitoides wohltmanni (Von Koenen) , Kamerunoceras turoniense (d'Orbigny) , Choffaticeras sp. , Choffaticeras meslei (Peron), and Choffaticeras sinaiticum Douvillé] are recorded from the Tinrhert area for the first time. This study also evidences that both subspecies Neolobites vibrayeanus vibrayeanus (d'Orbigny) and Neolobites vibrayeanus brancai Eck are associated in the same section and in the same level. In the Tinrhert area, the biostratigraphic ammonite successions are subdivided into nine bio-events that are easily correlatable with the upper Cenomanian–lower Turonian standard zonation. The paleobiogeographic affinities of the recorded taxa characterize these ammonoid assemblages as part of the southern Tethyan Province during the early Late Cretaceous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of this controlled multicenter study is to evaluate the clinical and radiologic outcomes of primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) using single-use fully disposable and patient-specific cutting guides (SU) and compare the results to those obtained with traditional patient-specific cutting guides (PSI) vs conventional instrumentation (CI).Methods: Seventy consecutive patients had their TKA performed using SU. They were compared to 140 historical patients requiring TKA that were randomized to have the procedure performed using PSI vs CI. The primary measure outcome was mechanical axis as measured on a standing long-leg radiograph using the hip-knee-ankle angle. Secondary outcome measures were Knee Society and Oxford knee scores, operative time, need for postoperative transfusion, and length of hospital stay.Results: The mean hip-knee-ankle value was 179.8° (standard deviation [SD] 3.1°), 179.2° (SD 2.9°), and 178.3° (SD 2.5°) in the CI, PSI and SU groups, respectively (P = .0082). Outliers were identified in 16 of 65 (24.6%), 15 of 67 (22.4%), and 14 of 70 (20.0%) knees in the CI, PSI, and SU group, respectively (P = .81). There was no significant difference in the clinical results (P = .29 and .19, respectively). Operative time, number of unit transfusion, and length of hospital stay were not significantly different between the 3 groups (P = .45, .31, and 0.98, respectively).Conclusion: The use of an SU in TKA provided similar clinical and radiologic results to those obtained with traditional PSI and CI. The potential economic advantages of single-use instrumentation in primary TKA require further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Résumé Avec une prévalence estimée à 3 millions de personnes en France, soit 5 % de la population, la maladie rénale chronique est un réel enjeu de santé publique. Elle est en progression constante en rapport avec le vieillissement de la population et l’augmentation des pathologies cardiovasculaires et diabétiques. Dans sa forme la plus évoluée, au stade terminal, la maladie rénale chronique nécessite le recours à la dialyse et la transplantation. Elle mobilise alors une part non négligeable des dépenses de santé (environ 2 %), soit 2 milliards d’euros. En 2014, près de 80 000 patients étaient traités en France par épuration extrarénale : 56 % par dialyse (hémodialyse et dialyse péritonéale) et 44 % par greffe rénale. Avant ce stade, les recommandations de la Haute Autorité en santé et de la Société française de néphrologie dialyse et transplantation mettent l’accent sur l’information du patient et l’intérêt d’une prise en charge pluriprofessionnelle intégrée, planifiée, basée sur les preuves et plaçant le patient au centre d’un dispositif de prise en charge et de surveillance. C’est à ce niveau que la télémédecine prend toute son importance avec le développement de la télésurveillance à domicile. En permettant la collecte et l’analyse rapide de paramètres cliniques et biologiques simples, elle renforce la surveillance et le suivi des patients à haut risque cardiovasculaire, traités par blocage du système rénine angiotensine, traitement de référence dans le cadre d’une néphroprotection. Cette étude compare deux modes de suivi des patients insuffisants rénaux chroniques, stades 3 et 4 : l’un appelé « télésuivi », incluant la télésurveillance à domicile et l’autre appelé « suivi conventionnel », relevant des recommandations actuelles faites par la Haute Autorité en santé. Notre hypothèse : la télésurveillance à domicile de patients insuffisants rénaux chroniques stades 3 et 4 améliorerait la sécurité des soins en intensifiant la surveillance des patients à haut risque. Par ailleurs, elle contribuerait à une plus grande satisfaction concernant leur prise en charge et à terme contribuerait au ralentissement de l’évolution de la maladie rénale. Summary With a prevalence estimated at 3 million people in France, that is 5 % of the population, the chronic kidney disease is a major public health issue. It has been steadily increasing in relation to the population ageing and the increase of cardiovascular and diabetic pathologies. In its most advanced form, at end-stage, chronic renal failure requires to use dialysis and transplantation. Therefore, it concentrates a significant part of the healthcare spending (approximately 2 %), that is 2 billion euros. In 2014, about 80,000 patients were treated in France by extra-renal purification: 56 % by dialysis, hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis and 34 % by renal transplant. The HAS and SFNDT recommendations before dialysis stage highlight patient education and the interest of a joined, planned, evidence-based multi-professional care which places the patient at the center of a care and supervision scheme. Telemedicine is most important at this stage thanks to the development of tele-home care. By allowing the collection and fast analysis of simple clinical and biological parameters, it strengthens the surveillance and follow-up of high-risk cardiovascular patients, treated by the renin-angiotensin system blockade, standard treatment in nephroprotection. This study compares two methods to follow-up patients with chronic renal insufficiency, stages 3 or 4: one called “télésuivi” (tele-monitoring), including tele-home care and the other one called “suivi conventionnel” (“standard follow-up”), within the scope of current HAS’ recommendations. Our hypothesis: tele-home care of patients with chronic renal insufficiency at stages 3 and 4 would improve the safety of health care by strengthening the monitoring of high-risk patients. Besides, it would provide a higher satisfaction regarding patients’ care and, eventually, contribute to slow down in the progression of the renal disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, an approach based on the principal component analysis technique (PCA) was applied to the determination of associated ionic liquid biosensor. By analyzing six parameters, the integrated system allows us to classify glucose biosensor. Data base of biosensors exploited contains several samples containing GoX, ionic liquids and nanotube of carbon (NTC). We present how can progress characteristics’ of biosensors. We compare experimental biosensor fabrication based on glucose biosensor based on direct assembly of Prussian blue film with ionic liquid-chitosan matrix assisted enzyme immobilization with theoretical approach based on PCA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar cell is one of the crucial components in photovoltaic systems. Silicon solar modules are widely used in the Photovoltaic (PV) industry. The silicon PV electrical performance is described by its current–voltage (I–V) characteristic, which is as function of the device used and material properties. This study provides a comparison between a simplified PV-cell and module model and its parameterization, guaranteeing that the I–V characteristic curves fit with the typical points given by manufacturers’ datasheets and experimental data. The PV performance study is carried out as function of the junction temperature and insolation. This contribution gives an overview over PV module defects and degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an analysis, by numerical simulation, of the effects of some geometric parameters on the efficiency of an axisymmetric oscillating water column wave energy converter by using ANSYS ICEM CFD and CFX. The study is focused, principally, on the variation of power take off size, front wall shape, air column size, wave conditions and the chamber upper surface shape. A Stokes 2nd order wave is generated in a numerical wave tank in which the propagation is predicted by the use of the Reynolds averaged Navier Stockes (RANS) equations, k-ɛ turbulence model and the two-phase homogeneous volume of fluid (VOF) model. The power take off is modeled by an orifice and the flow parameters, air pressure and velocity, are calculated at its center. Simulation results shows that the orifice diameter, the front wall orientation vs. flow direction and the air column size affect, in a remarkable manner, the device performance, whereas the number of orifices has no physical impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the clinical and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) outcome of arthroscopic rotator cuff repair with the use of leukocyte-platelet-rich plasma (L-PRP) in patients with large or massive rotator cuff tears. Methods: A comparative cohort of patients with large or massive rotator cuff tears undergoing arthroscopic repair was studied. Two consecutive groups of patients were included: rotator cuff repairs with L-PRP injection (group 1, n = 35) and rotator cuff repairs without L-PRP injection (group 2, n = 35). A double-row cross-suture cuff repair was performed by a single surgeon with the same rehabilitation protocol. Patients were clinically evaluated with the Constant score; Simple Shoulder Test score; University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) score; and strength measurements by use of a handheld dynamometer. Rotator cuff healing was evaluated by postoperative MRI using the Sugaya classification (type 1 to type 5). Results: We prospectively evaluated the 2 groups at a minimum 2-year follow-up. The results did not show differences in cuff healing between the 2 groups (P = .16). The size of recurrent tears (type 4 v type 5), however, was significantly smaller in group 1 (P = .008). There was no statistically significant difference in the recurrent tear rate (types 4 and 5) between the 2 groups (P = .65). There was no significant difference between group 1 and group 2 in terms of University of California, Los Angeles score (29.1 and 30.3, respectively; P = .90); Simple Shoulder Test score (9.9 and 10.2, respectively; P = .94); Constant score (77.3 and 78.1, respectively; P = .82); and strength (7.5 and 7.0, respectively; P = .51). Conclusions: In our study the use of autologous L-PRP did not improve the quality of tendon healing in patients undergoing arthroscopic repair of large or massive rotator cuff tears based on postoperative MRI evaluation. The only significant advantage was that the L-PRP patients had smaller iterative tears. However, the functional outcome was similar in the 2 groups of patients. Level Of Evidence: Level III, case-control study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We explore the thermodynamic and mechanical properties of Ir, Os, and their alloys. • Unknown polytype-phases of Ir (6H, 4H, 2H) and Os (6H, 4H) have been predicted. • Os and Ir polytypes divulge weak thermodynamic instabilities. • For Ir-Os alloys, four ordered structures have been predicted. • IrOs 3 has high bulk modulus, large shear and Young moduli. The platinum-group elements (PGMs) owing their high chemical stability, and unique properties, have recently attracted great research interest in various promising applications. Herein using state-of-the-art first-principles evolutionary algorithms, we explore the thermodynamic and mechanical properties of Ir, Os, and their alloys. Hitherto unknown polytype-phases of Ir (6H, 4H, 2H) and Os (6H, 4H) have been predicted, two of these (4H-Ir, and 4H-Os) were recently observed experimentally. Os and, to more extent, Ir polytypes divulge weak thermodynamic instabilities. Phonon dispersion and elastic constants calculations were carried out to demonstrate the dynamical and mechanical stabilities of these phases. For the Ir-Os alloys, four ordered structures (P m-3 m (IrOs 3 , Ir 3 Os), P -6 m2 (IrOs), P -3 m1 (IrOs 2)) have been predicted, which are found mechanically and dynamically stables and manifest insignificantly thermodynamic instabilities. Furthermore, our obtained results show that Ir-Os systems evince outstanding mechanical properties, IrOs 3 has high bulk modulus (∼421GPa), large shear modulus (∼266GPa), and Young's modulus (659 GPa); whereas IrOs 2 possesses a remarkable large elastic constants C 11 (779GPa) and C 33 (814GPa). The anisotropic calculations show that IrOs 3 exhibits that greatest anisotropy in the universal elastic anisotropy index AU , shear modulus (A G) and Young's modulus (A E); while IrOs 2 has the smallest elastic anisotropy. Moreover, IrOs 3 reveals distinguished hardness of 27.6GPa, which is 3% weaker than 2H-Os (28.6GPa), and is so far one of the hardest materials among the PGMs binary alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The purpose of this study is to further understanding of the structural, electronic, magnetic properties of CdO doped with transition metal (Mn) and non metal element (N). The calculations are performed by the developed full-potential augmented plane wave plus local orbitals method within the spin density functional theory. As exchange–correlation potential we used the generalized gradient approximation (GGA) form. Moreover, the electronic structure study for our compounds was performed with and without oxygen deficiency. We treated the ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic states and we found that all compounds are stable in the ferromagnetic structure, and all doped materials CdO:Mn and CdO:N adopt the half metallic character. In addition, we notice that the oxygen vacancy destroyed the ferromagnetism in N doped CdO, while Mn doped CdO becomes semiconductor. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We present a polarization independent fishnet negative index metamaterial at 40GHz. The structure is investigated theoretically using finite element method simulations and experimentally by measuring the amplitude and phase of the S-parameters. The experimental setup for free space measurements of both transmission and reflection is hereby introduced. The internal properties are thereafter retrieved and show the double-negative behavior of the structure. This negative index metamaterial exhibits very high transmission (−0.13dB), low reflection (−33.1dB) and a high figure of merit (FOM=|Re(n)/Im(n)|=42), where the real part of the refractive index is nearly −1 (Re(n)=−0.93) at 40GHz. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Copyright of European Research in Telemedicine / La Recherche Européenne en Télémédecine is the property of Elsevier B.V. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Abstract: The electronic and magnetic structures of orthorhombic perovskites RE–TM–O3 (RE =Eu, Gd, Tb and RE =Mn, Fe, Co) are studied using ab initio density functional theory in the local density approximation (LDA) with the on-site Hubbard U eff parameter (LDA+ U). To show rare earth (RE) and transition metal (TM) cations effect, we have analyzed the structural parameters, charge and spin densities and partial densities of states. We have also shown how the results can be made relatively sensitive to the choice of cation and to ion size. Valence electronic structures obtained from subsequent LDA+ U calculations are compared and discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Among all the forest ecosystems those situated in semi-arid conditions have only been sparsely studied. In North Africa, these ecosystems are often degraded due to their economical importance in energy supply. In mountain woodlands this dependence on the tree is even stronger, like in the High Atlas mountains in Morocco.Because of the strong human impact that affects mountain tree species, and to prepare an efficient management of Moroccan forest resources, a clear evaluation is required of their biomass and nutrient content. It was in this scope that we studied the Juniperus thurifera woodland of Azzaden Valley (western High Atlas, Morocco), where these two parameters were estimated.The results presented here show that in spite of a strong degradation of the trees and severe climatic conditions, the aerial biomass is included in the brackets defined by other authors for this kind of ecosystem. The mean biomass was about 49 Mg ha−1 with 95% of woody organs.The nutrient concentration (calcium, nitrogen, potassium and magnesium) for the different components shows that Ca≫N>K>Mg in trunks/branches, branchlets and leaves, and K>N>Ca>Mg in female cones. It appears that the strong concentration of calcium in all tissues (except in reproductive organs) participates in the neutralisation of top soil acidity through litterfall. The nutrient content study shows that Ca and N storage were significantly higher in trunks or branches (71.2 kg ha−1 for calcium and 43.5 kg ha−1 for nitrogen). For all elements, the nutrient content in leaves was significantly higher than the nutrient content in branchlets and female cones. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Summary: We investigated the toxicity of the fixed oil of Nigella sativa L seeds in mice and rats through determination of LD50 values and examination of possible biochemical, hematological and histopathological changes. The acute toxicity of Nigella sativa fixed oil was investigated in mice. LD50 values, obtained by single doses, orally and intraperitoneally administered in mice, were 28.8 ml/kg body wt. p.o. [26.2–31.6] and 2.06 ml/kg body wt. i.p. [1.86–2.26], respectively. Chronic toxicity was studied in rats treated daily with an oral dose of 2 ml/kg body wt. for 12 weeks. Changes in key hepatic enzymes levels, including aspartate-aminotransferase, alanine-aminotranferase, and gamma-glutamyltransferase and histopathological modifications (heart, liver, kidneys and pancreas) were not observed in rats treated with Nigella sativa after 12 weeks of treatment. The serum cholesterol, triglyceride and glucose levels and the count of leukocytes and platelets decreased significantly, compared to control values, while hematocrit and hemoglobin levels increased significantly. A slowing of body weight gain was also observed in Nigella sativa treated rats, as compared to control animals. The low toxicity of Nigella sativa fixed oil, evidenced by high LD50 values, key hepatic enzyme stability and organ integrity, suggests a wide margin of safety for therapeutic doses of Nigella sativa fixed oil, but the changes in hemoglobin metabolism and the fall in leukocyte and platelet count must be taken into consideration. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Presents a non-destructive method for estimating above-ground forest biomass in threatened juniper woodland in Morocco. Findings that suggest the reliability of the method; Process by which the accuracy of young tree biomass can be improved.

Abstract: Basal cell carcinoma of the skin is the most common malignancy in the head and neck area. Regional and distant metastases rarely occur with this type of tumour. We report an uncommon case of a sclerodermiform basal cell carcinoma of the facial skin in which metastases developed several years after the primary tumour. The metastases occurred in the soft tissue of the neck, the thyroid gland and the lung. This is the first case of BCC with triple metastases which were histologically confirmed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• We present electronic structure of cubic, hexagonal and body-centered tetragonal of ZnO. • Studied structures evince energetic stabilities, rivaling with the ground-state wurtzite phase. • We show the mechanical and dynamical stabilities of the four polymorphs. • Impact of stacking order on the structural, piezoelectric, and dynamical properties is explored. The last past two decades have witnessed tremendous scientific and technological interest in zinc-oxide (ZnO), a wide-band gap II-VI semiconductor with unparalleled optoelectronic, piezoelectric, thermal and transport properties. Herein, we present a clear view of the electronic structure properties of cubic (3C), hexagonal (2H, 4H, and 6H) and body-centered tetragonal polytypes of ZnO using stat-of-the-art first-principles pseudopotentials method. All the crystal structures studied evince marked energetic stabilities, rivaling with the ground-state wurtzite 2H phase. Furthermore, the calculations of the elastic constants and phonon dispersion evidence the mechanical and dynamical stabilities of the four ZnO-polymorphs. In addition, the impact of the stacking order on the structural, energetic, electronic, piezoelectric, and dynamical properties is explored and examined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Résumé Introduction L’infarctus rénal est une pathologie rare, aspécifique souffrant d’une difficulté diagnostic, avec un risque d’insuffisance rénale. Méthodes Sur une période de 24 mois (1 mars 2013–28 février 2015), nous avons recensé les patients signalés comme présentant un infarctus rénal, hospitalisés en néphrologie, cardiologie ou médecine interne. Nous avons rapporté facteurs de risques cardiovasculaires, présentation clinique, biologique et scannographique. Un suivi prospectif a été proposé à 6 mois. Résultats Nous avons retrouvé 11 cas représentant 0,006 % des passages aux urgences, et un cas admis directement. Les signes cliniques sont apécifiques et le diagnostic n’a pas été évoqué à la prise en charge initiale, l’angioscanner redressant le diagnostic, avec un délai médian de 3 j. Les étiologies regroupent 5 dissections, 4 embolies, une artérite canabinoïde, une thrombose athéromateuse, une sténose postradique. Le traitement a consisté en une anticoagulation ( n = 7) avec antiagrégant ( n = 1) ou antiagrégant en relais ( n = 2), ou antiagrégant seul ( n = 2). Deux patients ont bénéficié d’une revascularisation et deux ont présenté une insuffisance rénale aiguë secondaire. On retrouvait fréquemment une élévation des LDH (4/5 valeurs disponibles) initialement ; un syndrome inflammatoire, une hypokaliémie et une élévation de la pression artérielle à 48–72 h. À 6 mois, un seul cas d’insuffisance rénale séquellaire, une seule récidive. Conclusion L’infarctus rénal souffre d’un retard diagnostic, et doit être évoqué devant toute douleur lombaire aiguë. Un dosage des LDH complété peut orienter le diagnostic, confirmé par l’angioscanner. L’association syndrome inflammatoire–hypokaliémie peut permettre de redresser le diagnostic. Background Renal infarctions are rare events, clinical symptoms are various and diagnosis may be difficult, leading to diagnosis delay with kidney dysfunction risk. Methods During 24 months (March 2013–February 2015), all patients admitted in nephrology, cardiology, or internal medicine for renal infarction were recorded. Cardiovascular risk, clinic–biologic and radiologic data were recorded. A prospective follow-up at 6 months was offered for each patient. Results Eleven patients were admitted from emergency unit and 1 from general practitioner. Clinic symptoms are various: abdominal pain, headache, hypertension, and stroke. Diagnosis was not initially evocated, and was given by CT scan with 3 days median delay. Etiologies were composed of 5 dissections, 4 embolisms (atrial fibrillation), 1 cannabinoid arteritis, 1 thrombosis on atheroma, 1 thrombosis on postradiotherapy stenosis. Initial treatment was anticoagulation alone for 7 patients, with antiplatelet agent for 1 patient, anticoagulation followed by antiplatelet agent for 2 patients, and antiplatelet agent alone for 2 patients. We observed LDH elevation (4 cases on 5 available data) at admission; inflammatory syndrome, hypokalemia, and hypertension at 48–72 h of symptoms. At 6 months follow-up, one patient had altered glomerular filtration rate, and one patient had recidivism. Conclusion Delay of diagnosis is a real problem for renal infarction, and need to be evocated every flank pain. LDH elevation may help clinician to suggest renal infarction and lead to CT scan. Association of delayed inflammatory syndrome, hypertension and hypokalemia after flank pain strongly suggest renal infarction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectifs L'infarctus rénal est une pathologie rare dont les manifestations cliniques peu spécifiques compliquent le diagnostic, et le retard diagnostic expose au risque d'insuffisance rénale. Méthodes Sur une période de 24 mois (mars 2013 – février 2015), nous avons recensé les patients présentant un infarctus rénal, hospitalisé en néphrologie, cardiologie ou médecine interne sur une base déclarative. Nous avons rapporté les facteurs de risque cardiovasculaire, la présentation clinique, biologique et scannographique. Un suivi prospectif a pu être mis en place à 6 mois. Résultats l'ensemble des patients ont été admis via les urgences, représentant 0.0065 % des passages aux urgences. Les signes cliniques sont peu spécifiques : douleur abdominale, nausée/vomissement, céphalée secondaire à une hypertension artérielle, trouble phasique secondaire à un AVC concomitant. Le diagnostic n'a pas été évoqué à la prise en charge initiale, c'est l'angioscanner qui a permis de redresser le diagnostic d'infarctus rénal avec un retard diagnostique médian de 3 jours. Les étiologies retrouvées sont : 5 dissections d'artère rénale, 4 embolies sur fibrillation auriculaire, une artérite canabinoïde, une thrombose athéromateuse, une sténose post-radique. La prise en charge initiale a consisté en la mise en place d'une anticoagulation curative, puis d'une revascularisation d'artère rénale (n = 2), 1 patient gardera une insuffisance rénale chronique stade 3b. Au niveau biologique, on observe l'apparition d'un syndrome inflammatoire dans les jours qui suivent l'épisode : CRP > 100 mg/L observée entre 2 et 6 J après la douleur dans les 10 cas précoces, mais absente chez les patients avec un retard diagnostic plus long. 8/12 ont présenté une hypokaliémie, mais d'apparition retardée de 48-72 h par rapport au début des douleurs, et une TA > 140/90 était présente chez 9 patients. Une hématurie microscopique a été recherchée et présente chez 8/8 patients. Parmi les 12 patients, 2 ont présenté une insuffisance rénale aiguë. Conclusion L'infarctus rénal doit être évoqué devant toute douleur des fosses lombaire même en l'absence de facteurs de risque thrombo-embolique, et prouvé par un angioscanner. Dans notre série, les dissections sont la cause la plus fréquente. Les éléments associés au diagnostic sont : l'apparition retardée d'un syndrome inflammatoire à 48 h d'une douleur, l'apparition d'une HTA non connue, ainsi qu'une hypokaliémie. La prise en charge est dépendante de la cause retrouvée et de la vitalité rénale sous-jacente incitant ou non à réaliser une désobstruction artérielle, et nécessite en première intention la mise en place d'une décoagulation curative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Résumé Le syndrome hypertension-hyponatrémie (hyponatremic-hypertensive syndrome ou HHS) est un tableau rare, associant habituellement une HTA sévère et une hyponatrémie à natriurèse élevée. Nous rapportons ici le cas d’une femme de 73 ans présentant une hyponatrémie profonde compliquée d’une crise généralisée tonicoclonique. Sa particularité est l’absence initiale d’hypertension, masquée par un contexte d’hypovolémie. Le bilan étiologique a confirmé une sténose de l’artère rénale gauche avec une correction complète des désordres ioniques et de l’hypertension après angioplastie, sans récidive à 6 mois. Nous discutons également les différents mécanismes physiopathologiques des HHS. Introduction Hyponatremic-hypertensive syndrome (HHS) is characterized by hypertension and hyponatremia. Case presentation We report a case of HHS in a 73-year-old woman, revealed by a hyponatremia leading to status epilepticus, without initial hypertension due to hypovolemia. She was successfully treated by endovascular therapy without any long-term supplementation or anti-hypertensive medication. Conclusion Physiopathology hypothesis of HHS implicate pressure natriuresis, in this case, hypertension is not initially found and we discuss other hyponatremia mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectifs Nous décrivons le cas de Mme B ayant présenté un syndrome hypertension et hyponatrémie (HHS) Méthodes cas Mme A 73 ans s'est présentée aux urgences du CHU de Grenoble pour crise convulsive révélant une hyponatrémie à 107 mmol/L et une hypokaliémie à 2.6 mmol/L, dans un contexte de diarrhées et de traitement par Hydrochorothiazide, avec une tension initiale à 125/79 mmHg. Malgré une suspension des diurétiques, apport sodée et potassique les troubles ioniques ont persisté avec apparition d'une HTA à 150/74. Résultats: Le bilan a retrouvé une osmolarité urinaire haute (319 mosm/kg) avec natriurèse et kaliurèse élevées (244 et 144 mmol/24h respectivement). Un hyperaldostéronisme secondaire est alors confirmé (rénine 317.5 ng/L ; aldostérone 583 pmol/L) sur sténose de l'artère rénale droite à 90 % (angioTDM). Un traitement par angioplastie et stent est réalisé, permettant un contrôle tensionnel et une normalisation des troubles ioniques en 48 h Le contrôle du bilan hormonal confirme la disparition de l'hyperaldostéronisme (rénine 8.7 ng/L et aldostérone 57 pmol/L), effet persistant à 6 mois de suivi. Conclusion L'HHS est une situation rare associant HTA et hyponatrémie dues à un hyperaldostéronisme secondaire par anomalie artérielle rénale. Des traitements par angioplastie, néphrectomie et inhibiteur de l'enzyme de conversion ont été rapporté comme efficaces. La physiopathologie reste mal connue, 4 hypothèses sont soulevées : 1/ Un effet pression natriurèse par HTA sévère. Cependant, nous n'avons pas retrouvé d'HTA sévère initialement, ni au cours de l'hospitalisation. 2/ Une stimulation de la soif par l'angiotensine II (effet dipsogène). Mais nous n'avons pas constaté d'impact de la restriction hydrique hospitalière réalisée après la correction volémique initiale. 3/ Une stimulation de l'hormone anti diurétique (ADH) par l'angiotensine II. En effet, l'osmolarité urinaire est élevée chez notre patiente, témoignant d'une réabsorption d'eau libre. 4/ Enfin si la stimulation d'AT2R1 induit une rétention hydrosodée, la stimulation d'AT2R2 induit une perte sodée. L'AT2R2 n'est habituellement stimulé qu'en cas de forte concentration d'angiotensine II. Les taux de rénine et d'aldostérone élevés et la natriurèse haute supportent une action d'AT2R2. Des polymorphismes génétiques expliquant une action préférentielle d'AT2R2 ou une sous activité d'AT2R1 pourraient expliquer que l'HHS ne survienne pas systématiquement en cas de sténose des artères rénales. Cela reste à démontrer. En cas d'HTA et hyponatrémie avec natriurèse et osmolarité urinaire haute une exploration de l'artère rénale doit être réalisée. En cas d'HHS la correction de l'anomalie vasculaire rénale permet la correction des troubles hydroélectrolytiques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]