bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
"Remansos de ensueño." Las huertas y la gestión del agua en Aguascalientes, 1855-1914
Authors: Gómez Serrano Jesús
Published: May 2017

Al igual que en otros muchos lugares, las huertas fueron parte esencial del paisaje urbano en Aguascalientes durante toda la época colonial, el siglo XIX y la primera mitad del XX. Este artículo reseña sus orígenes y concentra el análisis en la segunda mitad del siglo XIX, su época de mayor esplendor, cuando hicieron de Aguascalientes “la ciudad de las flores, los frutos y las aguas”. A partir del Plano formado por Isidoro Epstein en 1855 y de la recreación propuesta por Eduardo J. Correa en su libro Un viaje a Termápolis, se estudia el peso que tenían las huertas en la ciudad, su distribución por barrios, la gestión del sistema de riego, la medida en que definieron el proceso urbano y ciertos mitos asociados al cultivo de la vid. Hacen falta más estudios de caso para determinarlo con certeza, pero con 459 huertas con derecho a riego en 1883, la ciudad de Aguascalientes parece un caso singular, uno de los mejores ejemplos que hay en México de horticultura urbana. Para terminar, se propone una reflexión sobre la liquidación del sistema de huertas en el contexto de la industrialización de la ciudad, su acelerada expansión, la emergencia de nuevos hábitos de higiene y la explosión demográfica.
El tifo en la ciudad de México en tiempos de la revolución mexicana, 1913-1916
Authors: Molina del Villar América
Published: May 2017

En este trabajo estudiamos el impacto de la epidemia de tifo de 1915-1916 en la ciudad de México. Examinamos su origen y propagación, enmarcándolo en un contexto de gran vulnerabilidad social y política originada a raíz de la caída de Victoriano Huerta y la toma de la ciudad por las distintas fuerzas revolucionarias. El estudio se adentra en el impacto demográfico de la epidemia. Relacionamos sus repercusiones con las condiciones de insalubridad que imperaban en la capital del país, las cuales en gran medida fueron atribuidos a la pobreza, así como a la interrupción de muchas obras de saneamiento debido a la falta de presupuesto, los conflictos armados y cambios de gobierno. El estudio incorpora varias fuentes de información del Archivo Histórico de la Secretaría de Salud, del Archivo Histórico del Distrito Federal, de la prensa y de los Boletines del Consejo Superior de Salubridad. El ensayo pretende contribuir a la historiografía del periodo desde la perspectiva de la historia social y demográfica.
Europa y el mundo atlántico. Reseña historiográfica
Authors: Carmagnani Marcello
Published: May 2017

En este texto se evalúan la importancia y el significado del papel que desempeña Europa en la nueva interacción con África y América entre el siglo XV y el primer tercio del siglo XIX. Las conexiones por el mundo atlántico dieron espesor a la economía mercantil, permitiéndole competir con el mundo asiático, más aún dieron vida a un mundo colonial con nuevas reglas en las relaciones con las metrópolis europeas. Se desarrollaron sociedades estamentales multiétnicas en la América ibérica y sociedades segmentadas en la América anglosajona, francesa y en África. La diferencia entre las áreas americanas de sus metrópolis permitió, en las Américas, a dar vida a la Revolución atlántica que provocó en las Américas y Europa la caída del antiguo régimen entre el último tercio del siglo XVIII y el primer tercio del siglo XIX.
La territorialidad de la República de Indios de Orizaba. Entre la separación de los sujetos y la preponderancia española: 1740-1828
Authors: García Ruiz Luis Juventino
Published: May 2017

El artículo analiza las tensiones territoriales que enfrentó la República de Indios de Orizaba desde mediados del siglo XVIII. Por un lado, sufrió un proceso de fragmentación territorial originado por la separación de los pueblos sujetos a su gobierno, lo que provocó una reducción de su espacio político y una simplificación de las funciones jurisdiccionales y de gobierno que desempeñaba. Por otra parte, encaró las aspiraciones de los vecinos españoles de contar con ayuntamiento, rango de villa y ejido. Frente a estas demandas, los indios desplegaron estrategias encaminadas a reafirmar su territorialidad: obtuvieron del rey nuevos privilegios, reconstituyeron la memoria histórica de la fundación del pueblo, expandieron sus tierras de comunidad, y con la entrada en vigor de la Constitución de 1812 utilizaron el discurso liberal en torno a la ciudadanía y la propiedad para mantener cohesionado su territorio comunitario.
Sobre José Luis Moreno Vázquez, Despojo de agua en la cuenca del río Yaqui
Authors: Aboites Aguilar Luis
Published: May 2017

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Presentación. Tiempo de definiciones: Maximiliano en México
Authors: Pani Erika , Pi-Suñer Llorens Antonia
Published: May 2017

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Sobre Roberto Breña (ed.), Cádiz a debate: actualidad, contexto y legado
Authors: La Parra López Emilio
Published: May 2017

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Sobre Rogelio Hernández Rodríguez, Presidencialismo y hombres fuertes en México: la sucesión presidencial de 1958
Authors: Hernández Chávez Alicia
Published: May 2017

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HAZOP Study and Determination of Safety Integrity Level Using Fault Tree Analysis on Fuel Gas Superheat Burner of Ammonia Unit in Petrochemical Plant, East Java
Authors: Noriyati Ronny D. , Prakoso Amarendra B. , Musyafa Ali , Soeprijanto Adi
Published: May 2017

Safety is an essential requirement in the course of production in the industry. Security in the factory needs to be considered, especially against malicious nodes such as burner. In this research analysis to determine opportunities hazard that could happen to superheat burner. The magnitude of the risk of harm must be balanced with the security system (SIS). So the system superheat burner analyzed by the method HAZOP and SIL safety level calculated through the method of FTA. Based on research conducted in this thesis, superheat burner has a high danger risk (high risk) component TT-1005 and PT-1018. The level of security superheat burner classified SIL 1 with PFD 4.38x10-2, so do redesign the SIS to achieve SIL 2. PFD system of 0.0099 is achieved by adding 2 ESDV on line check fuel gas and purges gas and increase the pressure switch on each function pressure switch. (PSHH, PSL, PSLL).Â
A Matrix Model for Effective of Project Management
Authors: Ruan Samuel Y. , Chen Yuan-Ho
Published: May 2017

For earned value management (EVM), when an organization attaches nonequal importance to the schedule performance index (SPI) and cost performance index (CPI) of a project, a nonequal-weighted conversion rate between the SPI and CPI is formed. This study employed EVM to integrate SPIs and CPIs to establish a matrix project performance assessment model with a nonequal-weighted conversion rate between the SPI and CPI. This model improves the disadvantages of conventional performance assessment models and enables project managers to simultaneously monitor and control the costs and schedules of their projects. The results provide a practical project performance assessment model for various industries and a basis for developing a project performance assessment information system, thus confirming the practicality and applicability of this study.Â
An Investigation of the Depopulation in Northeastern Rural Regions of Japan Based on the Conjoint Analysis Modeling Approach
Authors: Nakagawa Megumi , Izuta Giido
Published: May 2017

The aim of this work was to get some insight into the social model relying on the voluntary human relocation-generated depopulation in northeastern (Tohoku region) rural towns of Japan under the assumption that urban areas (big cities) function as attractor-type entities on young people. In order to achieve this purpose, a study on the basis of the conjoint analysis (CA) survey was carried out at a junior college, in which the respondents were questioned about the relevant factors taken into account to decide where either to sojourn or to reside in after graduating college. As a matter of fact, the surveyees, whose ages ranged from 18 to 20 years old, were all female students enrolled in humanities courses. These 129 participants were all from towns and cities in Tohoku region with the huge majority of these localities being officially classified by the government as â€˜under-populated townâ€™, and yet none as â€˜big cityâ€™. As far as the experimental set up is concerned, the analysis focused on six CA attributes of big cities, namely, â€˜jobâ€™, â€˜lifeâ€™, â€˜attraction (fascination)â€™, â€˜entertainment and shoppingâ€™, â€˜family reasonsâ€™ and â€˜encountersâ€™, each provided with two CA levels. These attributes and levels were then translated into appropriate question-type sentences and carefully combined to make up five questionnaires, in which two of them were composed by three attributes whereas the others by two only. Either case, the respondents ranked the four conjoint cards on each questionnaire sheet according to their preferences and awareness. Then, the data processing was dealt with manually on a spreadsheet software application according to the standard choice-based CA procedure. It turned out that, whilst the importance value yielded the predominant attribute over the others within the questionnaire suggesting an evaluation order of the factors to establish the domicile of choice, the utility values are rather likely to express how the respondents felt towards their rural hometowns. Finally, regardless of the fact that this investigation was limited to a very particular sample population and confined to a specific territory, the results still help us not only shed some light on the addressed problem but also figure out some directions to make rural towns more attractive to young people.
El medioambiente como narrativa global: definición de problemas medioambientalesy retos para las políticas públicas
Authors: Pardo Buendía Mercedes
Published: May 2017

La definición de «medio ambiente» y «problemas medioambientales», así como los enfoques políticos, han cambiado drásticamente a partir de la década de los sesenta. En este trabajo, la evolución de los problemas y políticas ambientales se identifica y analiza en el contexto de su creciente importancia social como una narrativa global. Este trabajo concluye caracterizando y analizando la situación actual como una transición ambiental con respecto a los nuevos enfoques y la gestión, así como a los problemas sociales clave como la energía.
Lo importante es participar: el papel de los premios a la calidad en la institucionalización de la evaluación
Authors: Ruiz López Joaquín
Published: May 2017

Este artículo parte de la hipótesis de que las fórmulas de reconocimiento público, como los premios a la calidad, contribuyen a la institucionalización necesaria de la evaluación en el sector público al promover la práctica de la autoevaluación organizacional. Después de proporcionar una descripción general de los premios de calidad a escala internacional y en España, el documento describe en detalle el esquema «Premios a la calidad y las mejores prácticas» en la Administración del Gobierno Central, analiza sus resultados y establece vínculos entre estos y la autoevaluación de las organizaciones. Finalmente, se muestran las perspectivas esbozadas con la creación de la «Calidad y los Premios a la Innovación en Gestión Pública », abiertos a todos los niveles de la administración pública española, y destaca la importancia de su contribución a un futuro sistema de evaluación pública en España.
Reforma del aparato del Estado en Brasil
Authors: GAPP Revista
Published: May 2017

Reforma del aparato del Estado en Brasil
RECENSIONES
Authors: GAPP Revista
Published: May 2017

RECENSIONES
Apresiasi Masyarakat Miskin Terhadap Layanan Sosial Dasar Pemerintah
Authors: Sholichah Nihayatus
Published: May 2017

Changes in the role of local government as stipulated in Law No. 23/2014 on Local Government, demanding the role of public services for quality local government to the community. In addition, the demand for public services as the rights of citizens who have direct access to the Government brings impacts on climate change in the Local Government, especially as a state servant and community service. Especially when associated with one of the factors that affect the success of an organization, which is oriented to the public service, namely its success in performing the service function to the public (public service) either in the form of goods or services in accordance with the desired needs. The phenomenon that occurs in the fishing community shows that, the level of welfare of life is low. Difficulties in overcoming the problems of daily living and poverty have made people in fishing villages have to bear the burden of life that can not be ascertained when the end. As a result of poverty, there is a difficulty in accessing services in the field of basic social services from the Government which includes food, education and health. Keywords: People's Appreciation, Poverty, Government
Immediate ex-vivo diagnosis of pituitary adenomas using confocal reflectance microscopy: a proof-of-principle study
Authors: Mooney Michael A. , Georges Joseph , Yazdanabadi Mohammedhassan Izady , Goehring Katherine Y. , White William L. , Little Andrew S. , Preul Mark C. , Coons Stephen W. , Nakaji Peter , Eschbacher Jennifer M.
Published: May 2017

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of using confocal reflectance microscopy (CRM) ex vivo to differentiate adenoma from normal pituitary gland in surgical biopsy specimens. CRM allows for rapid, label-free evaluation of biopsy specimens with cellular resolution while avoiding some limitations of frozen section analysis.

METHODS

Biopsy specimens from 11 patients with suspected pituitary adenomas were transported directly to the pathology department. Samples were immediately positioned and visualized with CRM using a confocal microscope located in the same area of the pathology department where frozen sections are prepared. An H & E–stained slide was subsequently prepared from imaged tissue. A neuropathologist compared the histopathological characteristics of the H & E–stained slide and the matched CRM images. A second neuropathologist reviewed images in a blinded fashion and assigned diagnoses of adenoma or normal gland.

RESULTS

For all specimens, CRM contrasted cellularity, tissue architecture, nuclear pleomorphism, vascularity, and stroma. Pituitary adenomas demonstrated sheets and large lobules of cells, similar to the matched H & E–stained slides. CRM images of normal tissue showed scattered small lobules of pituitary epithelial cells, consistent with matched H & E–stained images of normal gland. Blinded review by a neuropathologist confirmed the diagnosis in 15 (94%) of 16 images of adenoma versus normal gland.

CONCLUSIONS

CRM is a simple, reliable approach for rapidly evaluating pituitary adenoma specimens ex vivo. This technique can be used to accurately differentiate between pituitary adenoma and normal gland while preserving biopsy tissue for future permanent analysis, immunohistochemical studies, and molecular studies.
Bilateral deep brain stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus in primary Meige syndrome
Authors: Zhan Shikun , Sun Fafa , Pan Yixin , Liu Wei , Huang Peng , Cao Chunyan , Zhang Jing , Li Dianyou , Sun Bomin
Published: May 2017

OBJECTIVE

Subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of primary Meige syndrome. However, assessments of its efficacy and safety have been limited to several case reports and small studies.

METHODS

The authors performed a retrospective study to assess the efficacy and safety of bilateral subthalamic nucleus stimulation in 15 patients with primary Meige syndrome who responded poorly to medical treatments or botulinum toxin injections. Using the movement and disability subscores of the Burke-Fahn-Marsden Dystonia Rating Scale, the authors evaluated the severity of patients’ dystonia and related before surgery and at final follow-up during neurostimulation. The movement scale was assessed based on preoperative and postoperative video documentation by an independent rater who was unaware of each patient’s neurostimulation status. Quality of life was assessed with the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form General Health Survey.

RESULTS

The dystonia movement subscores in 14 consecutive patients improved from 19.3 ± 7.6 (mean ± standard deviation) before surgery to 5.5 ± 4.5 at final follow-up (28.5 ± 16.5 months), with a mean improvement of 74% (p < 0.05). The disability subscore improved from 15.6 ± 4.9 before surgery to 6.1 ± 3.5 at final follow-up (p < 0.05). In addition, the postoperative SF-36 scores increased markedly over those at baseline. The authors also found that bilateral stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus immediately improved patient symptoms after stimulation and required lower stimulation parameters than those needed for pallidal deep brain stimulation for primary Meige syndrome. Four adverse events occurred in 3 patients; all of these events resolved without permanent sequelae.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings provide further evidence to support the long-term efficacy and safety of subthalamic nucleus stimulation as an alternative treatment for patients with medically intractable Meige syndrome.
Predictors of permanent disability among adults with spinal dysraphism
Authors: Davis Matthew C. , Hopson Betsy D. , Blount Jeffrey P. , Carroll Rachel , Wilson Tracey S. , Powell Danielle K. , Jackson McLain Amie B. , Rocque Brandon G.
Published: May 2017

OBJECTIVE

Predictors of permanent disability among individuals with spinal dysraphism are not well established. In this study, the authors examined potential risk factors for self-reported permanent disability among adults with spinal dysraphism.

METHODS

A total of 188 consecutive individuals undergoing follow-up in an adult spinal dysraphism clinic completed a standardized National Spina Bifida Patient Registry survey. Chi-square tests and logistic regression were used to assess bivariate relationships, while multivariate logistic regression was used to identify factors independently associated with self-identification as “permanently disabled.”

RESULTS

A total of 106 (56.4%) adults with spina bifida identified themselves as permanently disabled. On multivariate analysis, relative to completion of primary and/or secondary school, completion of technical school (OR 0.01, 95% CI 0–0.40; p = 0.021), some college (OR 0.22, 95% CI 0.08–0.53; p < 0.001), college degree (OR 0.06, 95% CI 0.003–0.66; p = 0.019), and holding an advanced degree (OR 0.12, 95% CI 0.03–0.45; p = 0.002) were negatively associated with permanent disability. Relative to open myelomeningocele, diagnosis of closed spinal dysraphism was also negatively associated with permanent disability (OR 0.20, 95% CI 0.04–0.90; p = 0.036). Additionally, relative to no stool incontinence, stool incontinence occurring at least daily (OR 6.41, 95% CI 1.56–32.90; p = 0.009) or more than weekly (OR 3.43, 95% CI 1.10–11.89; p = 0.033) were both positively associated with permanent disability. There was a suggestion of a dose-response relationship with respect to the influence of educational achievement and frequency of stool incontinence on the likelihood of permanent disability.

CONCLUSIONS

The authors’ findings suggest that level of education and degree of stool incontinence are the strongest predictors of permanent disability among adults with spinal dysraphism. These findings will be the basis of efforts to improve community engagement and to improve readiness for transition to adult care in a multidisciplinary pediatric spina bifida clinic.
Social media networking in pediatric hydrocephalus: a point-prevalence analysis of utilization
Authors: Elkarim Ghassan Awad , Alotaibi Naif M. , Samuel Nardin , Wang Shelly , Ibrahim George M. , Fallah Aria , Weil Alexander G. , Kulkarni Abhaya V.
Published: May 2017

OBJECTIVE

A recent survey has shown that caregivers of children with shunt-treated hydrocephalus frequently use social media networks for support and information gathering. The objective of this study is to describe and assess social media utilization among users interested in hydrocephalus.

METHODS

Publicly accessible accounts and videos dedicated to the topic of hydrocephalus were comprehensively searched across 3 social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube) throughout March 2016. Summary statistics were calculated on standard metrics of social media popularity. A categorization framework to describe the purpose of pages, groups, accounts, channels, and videos was developed following the screening of 100 titles. Categorized data were analyzed using nonparametric tests for statistical significance.

RESULTS

The authors’ search identified 30 Facebook pages, 213 Facebook groups, 17 Twitter accounts, and 253 YouTube videos. These platforms were run by patients, caregivers, nonprofit foundations, and patient support groups. Most accounts were from the United States (n = 196), followed by the United Kingdom (n = 31), Canada (n = 17), India (n = 15), and Germany (n = 12). The earliest accounts were created in 2007, and a peak of 65 new accounts were created in 2011. The total number of users in Facebook pages exceeded those in Facebook groups (p < 0.001). The majority of users in Facebook groups were in private groups, in contrast to public groups (p < 0.001). The YouTube videos with the highest median number of views were for surgical products and treatment procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

This study presents novel observations into the characteristics of social media use in the topic of hydrocephalus. Users interested in hydrocephalus seek privacy for support communications and are attracted to treatment procedure and surgical products videos. These findings provide insight into potential avenues of hydrocephalus outreach, support, or advocacy in social media.
Pediatric superior semicircular canal dehiscence: illustrative case and systematic review
Authors: Lagman Carlito , Ong Vera , Chung Lawrance K. , Elhajjmoussa Lekaa , Fong Christina , Wang Anthony C. , Gopen Quinton , Yang Isaac
Published: May 2017

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study is to present an illustrative case of pediatric superior semicircular canal dehiscence (SSCD) and to systematically review the current published literature in the pediatric population.

METHODS

An electronic search of the Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO, Cochrane, and Embase databases was performed by 2 independent authors through January 2017. Search term combinations included “pediatrics,” “children,” “canal,” and “dehiscence.” Inclusion criteria were as follows: English, full-text clinical studies, case reports, and case series describing pediatric patient(s) (younger than 18 years) with CT evidence of SSCD. Baseline patient demographic characteristics, clinical presentations, dehiscence characteristics, management strategies, and outcome data were extracted.

RESULTS

A total of 14 studies involving 122 patients were included in the quantitative synthesis. The patients’ mean age was 7.22 years. Male predominance was observed (approximate male-to-female ratio of 1.65:1). Neurodevelopmental disorders were common (n = 14, 11.5%). Auditory signs and symptoms were more common than vestibular signs and symptoms. Hearing loss (n = 62, 50.8%) was the most common auditory symptom and an indicator for imaging evaluation. Vertigo was the most common vestibular symptom (n = 8, 6.6%). Hearing aids were recommended in 8 cases (6.6%), and surgical repair was performed in 1 case (0.8%). Symptom outcomes and follow-up durations were infrequently reported.

CONCLUSIONS

The authors’ data suggest that in pediatric SSCD, males are more commonly affected than females. This is different than the adult population in which females are predominantly affected. A history of otologic and/or neurodevelopmental abnormalities was common. There was a preponderance of auditory symptoms in this age group. Conservative management was favored in the majority.
Directed Panspermia: A 21st Century Perspective
Authors: Sleator Roy D. , Smith Niall
Published: May 2017

Applying 21st century technology to the design and development of a hypothetical extra-terrestrial colonisation programme, we reimagine ‘directed panspermia’ from the perspective of Crick and Orgel's ‘technological society’, 44 years after the publication of their original landmark paper.
Photoinduced Charge Transfer: From Photography to Solar Energy
Authors: De Castro Catherine S. , Dimitrov Stoichko , Burrows Hugh D. , Douglas Peter , Davies Matthew L.
Published: May 2017

To celebrate the centenary of Science Progress we offer a short survey of the progress made over the past one hundred years in the research and application of photoinduced charge transfer. After a brief historical overview and introduction to photoinduced charge transfer, we discuss developments in the theory and practice of photography, photovoltaics, photocatalysis, fluorescent probes and chemosensing.
Proceedings of the 3rd Annual Albert Institute for Bladder Cancer Research Symposium
Authors: Flaig Thomas W. , Kamat Ashish M. , Hansel Donna , Ingersoll Molly A. , Barton Grossman H. , Mendelsohn Cathy , DeGraff David , Liao Joseph C. , Taylor John A.
Published: May 2017

The Third Annual Albert Institute Bladder Symposium was held on September 8–10th, 2016, in Denver Colorado. Participants discussed several critical topics in the field of bladder cancer: 1) Best practices for tissue analysis and use to optimize correlative studies, 2) Modeling bladder cancer to facilitate understanding and innovation, 3) Targeted therapies for bladder cancer, 4) Tumor phylogeny in bladder cancer, 5) New Innovations in bladder cancer diagnostics. Our understanding of and approach to treating urothelial carcinoma is undergoing rapid advancement. Preclinical models of bladder cancer have been leveraged to increase our basic and mechanistic understanding of the disease. With the approval of immune checkpoint inhibitors for the treatment of advanced urothelial carcinoma, the treatment approach for these patients has quickly changed. In this light, molecularly-defined subtypes of bladder cancer and appropriate pre-clinical models are now essential to the further advancement and appropriate application of these therapeutic improvements. The optimal collection and processing of clinical urothelial carcinoma tissues samples will also be critical in the development of predictive biomarkers for therapeutic selection. Technological advances in other areas including optimal imaging technologies and micro/nanotechnologies are being applied to bladder cancer, especially in the localized setting, and hold the potential for translational impact in the treatment of bladder cancer patients. Taken together, advances in several basic science and clinical areas are now converging in bladder cancer. These developments hold the promise of shaping and improving the clinical care of those with the disease.
Impact of groin flap ischemia-reperfusion on red blood cell micro-rheological parameters in a follow-up study on rats
Authors: Magyar Zsuzsanna , Molnar Abel , Nachmias David Belkin , Mann Din , Sogor Viktoria , Mester Anita , Peto Katalin , Nemeth Norbert
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND: Flap hypoperfusion or ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) may occur during preparation-transposition procedures and by postoperative thrombotic complications. Behind the microcirculatory disturbances micro-rheological alterations are also supposed. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to investigate the groin flap I/R with following-up micro-rheological parameters. METHODS: Anesthetized rats were subjected to Control or I/R groups. Groin flaps were prepared bilaterally, pedicled on the superficial epigastric vessels. In the Control group the flaps were re-sutured after one hour, while in I/R group microvascular clips were applied on the pedicles for 60 minutes, then the flaps were repositioned. Besides daily wound control, before the operation and on the 1st, 3rd, 5th, 7th and 14th postoperative days blood samples were collected for testing red blood cell (RBC) deformability (rotational ektacytometry) and aggregation (light-transmission aggregometry). RESULTS: RBC deformability significantly worsened by the 3rd–7th postoperative day in I/R group. RBC aggregation enhanced significantly by the 1st day, in I/R group it remained elevated on the 3rd day as well. In a complicated case with unilateral flap necrosis, RBC deformability and aggregation worsening was outlined from its group (base, 1st, 3rd day). CONCLUSION: Wound healing affected micro-rheological parameters in the early postoperative period. Flap I/R exacerbated the alterations. The parameters markedly worsened in case of flap necrosis.
Amyloid Burden in Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Yun Chang-Ho , Lee Ho-Young , Lee Seung Ku , Kim Hyun , Seo Hyung Suk , Bang Seong Ae , Kim Sang Eun , Greve Douglas N. , Au Rhoda , Shin Chol , Thomas Robert J.
Published: May 2017

To test the hypothesis that excessive amyloid deposition is a biological link between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and Alzheimer’s disease, we determined whether OSA increases cerebral amyloid burden, relative to controls, using Pittsburgh Compound B (PiB) PET imaging. The subjects were adult participants (age 50–65 years) from the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study. Polysomnography, brain MRI including 3D images, and a detailed neuro-cognitive function test battery were done in 2011–2012. Nineteen OSA subjects (Apnea–Hypopnea Index [AHI] ≥15/h, 21.2±5.1/h; age 58.5±4.1 years; 9 male) and 19 controls (AHI 1.8±1.3/h; age 58.5±4.2 years; 9 male) underwent 60-min dynamic 11C-PiB PET. All subjects were right-handed with normal cognitive function and brain MRI. Controls were matched by age, gender, education, and APOE genotype. A voxel-wise comparison of PiB-PET images between the two groups was performed after spatial and count normalization with cerebellar gray matter as a reference. Covariates included the status of sleep duration, hypertension, diabetes, body mass index, exercise, depressive mood, smoking, and alcohol drinking. Cortical thickness on 3D MRI was also measured and compared between the two groups. The OSA group showed a higher PiB deposition in the right posterior cingulate gyrus and right temporal cortex (corrected p < 0.05). There was no area of higher uptake in the control compared with OSA. Regional differences in cortical thickness were not significant. The study suggests that OSA accelerates amyloid deposition and may contribute to the development or progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
When Patient Engagement and Research Ethics Collide: Lessons from a Dementia Forum
Authors: Robillard Julie M. , Feng Tanya L.
Published: May 2017

The importance of patient engagement in research has been gaining recognition since the turn of the 21st century. However, little is known about the perspectives of people with dementia on the process of discovery. To fill this gap and to inform priorities in patient engagement in the context of dementia research, the Clinic for Alzheimer Disease and Related Disorders at the University of British Columbia hosted an interactive session for members of the patient community and of the general public to share their views on various ethical aspects of the research process. Results from the session indicate that several current research ethics policies and norms in dementia research are not in line with participants’ preferences. Here we discuss the importance of bridging the gap between researchers and patients and call for reforms in current standards of dementia research.
Increasing Body Mass Index at Midlife is Associated with Increased Cortical Thinning in Alzheimer’s Disease-Vulnerable Regions
Authors: Shaw Marnie E. , Abhayaratna Walter P. , Anstey Kaarin J. , Cherbuin Nicolas
Published: May 2017

Higher body mass index (BMI) at midlife is associated with greater decreases in cognitive function at older age as well as increased Alzheimer’s disease (AD) risk, compared to those with normal BMI. Here, we tested whether BMI at midlife was associated with cortical thinning in brain regions known to be affected in early AD. We examined a large sample ( n = 404) of midlife individuals (44–49 years) from the PATH population-based study. Individuals were scanned with magnetic resonance imaging (1.5T) on up to three occasions over eight years. Change in cortical thickness was modeled as a linear function of BMI and change in BMI longitudinally. Being obese was associated with thinner right frontal cortex at baseline (44–49 years). Across all individuals, increasing BMI over the 8-year study period was associated with increased cortical thinning in posterior cingulate bilaterally, as well as right lingual gyrus, anterior cingulate, and the peri-calcarine sulcus. Accelerated age-related cortical atrophy at midlife, particularly in posterior cingulate, is consistent with increased risk of AD in individuals with high BMI at this age. The findings suggest that management of body weight at midlife could reduce the risk of AD.
Microglial and Neuronal TDP-43 Pathology in Anti-IgLON5-Related Tauopathy
Authors: Cagnin Annachiara , Mariotto Sara , Fiorini Michele , Gaule Marina , Bonetto Nicola , Tagliapietra Matteo , Buratti Emanuele , Zanusso Gianluigi , Ferrari Sergio , Monaco Salvatore
Published: May 2017

A novel neuronal tauopathy, mainly confined to hypothalamus and brainstem tegmentum, has recently been reported in patients with autoantibodies to the neuronal cell-adhesion molecule IgLON5. We describe a patient with anti-IgLON5 syndrome, who presented with dysautonomia and sleep disorder, followed by subacute dementia. Postmortem brain examination disclosed neuronal tau pathology prevailing in the hippocampus, amygdala, and locus coeruleus, in addition to microglial/neuronal TDP-43 pathology, with overexpression of aberrantly phosphorylated forms and neurotoxic truncated fragments, in basal ganglia, nucleus basalis, thalamus, and midbrain. These findings suggest that neurodegeneration in anti-IgLON5 syndrome might also occur via a microglia-triggered non-cell autonomous pathway.
A quantitative evaluation of pleural effusion on computed tomography scans using B-spline and local clustering level set
Authors: Song Lei , Gao Jungang , Wang Sheng , Hu Huasi , Guo Youmin
Published: May 2017

Estimation of the pleural effusion’s volume is an important clinical issue. The existing methods cannot assess it accurately when there is large volume of liquid in the pleural cavity and/or the patient has some other disease (e.g. pneumonia). In order to help solve this issue, the objective of this study is to develop and test a novel algorithm using B-spline and local clustering level set method jointly, namely BLL. The BLL algorithm was applied to a dataset involving 27 pleural effusions detected on chest CT examination of 18 adult patients with the presence of free pleural effusion. Study results showed that average volumes of pleural effusion computed using the BLL algorithm and assessed manually by the physicians were 586 ml±339 ml and 604±352 ml, respectively. For the same patient, the volume of the pleural effusion, segmented semi-automatically, was 101.8% ±4.6% of that was segmented manually. Dice similarity was found to be 0.917±0.031. The study demonstrated feasibility of applying the new BLL algorithm to accurately measure the volume of pleural effusion.
Characteristics and Clinical Outcomes of End-Stage Renal Disease Patients on Peritoneal Dialysis for over 15 Years: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Kee Youn Kyung , Park Jung Tak , Yoon Chang-Yun , Kim Hyoungnae , Park Seohyun , Yun Hae Ryong , Jung Su-Young , Jhee Jong Hyun , Oh Hyung Jung , Han Seung Hyeok , Yoo Tae-Hyun , Kang Shin-Wook
Published: May 2017

Background

Maintaining peritoneal dialysis (PD) for a long time is problematic owing to a number of factors. This study aimed to clarify the characteristics and examine the clinical outcomes of patients who received PD as a long-term dialysis modality.

Methods

All end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients who initiated PD at Yonsei University Health System between 1987 and 2000 were screened. Patients who maintained PD for over 15 years were classified as the long-term PD group and those who were treated with PD for less than 5 years were included in the short-term PD group. Demographic and biochemical data and clinical outcomes were compared between the groups. Independent factors associated with long-term PD maintenance were ascertained using multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

Among 1,116 study patients, 87 (7.8%) were included in the long-term group and 293 (26.3%) were included in the short-term group. In the long-term group, the mean patient age at PD initiation was 39.6 ± 11.5 years, 35 patients (40.2%) were male, and the mean PD duration was 205.3 ± 32.7 months. Patients were younger, body weight was lower, the proportion of patients with diabetes or cardiovascular diseases was lower, and the proportion of low to low-average transporters was higher in the long-term group than in the short-term group ( p < 0.001). Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that age, body mass index (BMI), serum creatinine, type of PD solution, and diabetes were significant independent factors associated with long-term PD maintenance.

Conclusion

Peritoneal dialysis can be considered as a long-term renal replacement therapy option, especially in non-diabetic, not overweight, and young ESRD patients.
The Utility of Sonographic Assessment in Selecting Patients for Percutaneous Insertion of Peritoneal Dialysis Catheter
Authors: Shanmugalingam Renuka , Makris Angela , Hassan Hicham C. , Li Yan , DeGuzman Imelda , Nandakoban Hareeshan , Aravindan Ananthakrishnapuram , Narayanan Govind , Wong Jeffrey K.W.
Published: May 2017

Background

Percutaneous insertion of peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheters by nephrologists is a safe and effective alternative to open surgical techniques. These patients are usually carefully selected due to anatomical considerations and medical comorbidities, with the current literature suggesting exclusion of patients with prior abdominal surgery.

Method

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of pre-dialysis patients who attended a preprocedural clinic in a tertiary center over 6 years. Procedural complications and catheter survival were assessed. Chi-squared test and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis were undertaken. Inpatient assessments were excluded.

Results

A total of 217 patients were assessed, of whom 171 (78.8%) were accepted for percutaneous PD catheter insertion by a nephrologist. The key exclusion criteria were: ( 1 ) the clinical presence of abdominal hernia ( p < 0.001), ( 2 ) ultrasound findings of skin to peritoneum depth of > 5.5 cm ( p < 0.001) and ( 3 ) ultrasound findings of impaired visceral slide test ( p < 0.001). Prior abdominal surgery was not a default exclusion criterion ( p = 0.1), as 63 patients (37%) with prior abdominal surgery, average of 1.3 prior surgeries per patient, were assessed as appropriate for the percutaneous procedure. There was no difference in the procedural complication rate and catheter survival between patients with and without prior abdominal surgery.

Conclusion

A comprehensive preprocedural assessment utilizing ultrasound permits an objective selection of patients for percutaneous insertion of PD catheters by nephrologists. This allowed for successful and safe percutaneous insertion of PD catheters in patients who may have otherwise been excluded, e.g., prior abdominal surgery, patients with large bilateral poly-cystic kidneys, and central obesity.
Ideology and Pragmatism in Iran's Foreign Policy
Authors: Ramazani R.K.
Published: May 2017

This essay hypothesizes that the tension between religious ideology and pragmatism has persisted throughout Iranian history. The Iranian Revolution simply put it on graphic display in the contemporary period. The essay also suggests that the dynamic processes of cultural maturation
seem to be shifting the balance of influence increasingly away from religious ideology toward pragmatic calculation of the national interest in the making and implementation of foreign policy decisions. The obvious implications of all this for US-Iran relations are mentioned.
Jordan and the Palestinian Authority: Did Better Fences Make Better Neighbors?
Authors: Frisch Hillel
Published: May 2017

The following article explores whether the establishment of the Palestinian Authority in 1994 led to an improvement in relations between the Palestine Liberation Organization/Palestinian Authority (PLO/PA) and Jordan since 1994. The issue is important in determining the viability of
the partition approach over a more integrative confederal or federal alternative between the two entities. The findings point to an improvement of relations. Nevertheless, some very core issues between the two sides, such as the territorial limits of citizenship and the issue of the Temple
Mount, remain unresolved between the two sides.
Turkey's Kurdish Conflict: Changing Context, and Domestic and Regional Implications
Authors: Somer Murat
Published: May 2017

This article develops new analytical categories that are necessary to analyze Turkey's Kurdish conflict in its changed domestic and international environments and to evaluate the policy options. If Turkish state policies and discourse, and that of the other regional and international
actors, signal to Kurds that the Turkish and Kurdish identities are mutually exclusive categories with rival interests, radical shifts may occur in Turkish Kurds' social and political identities and preferences. If state policies promote these identities as complements with compatible interests,
radical shifts are unlikely and Turkey can play a more constructive regional role.
OPEC's Dominance of the Global Oil Market: The Rise of the World's Dependency on Oil
Authors: Rose Euclid A.
Published: May 2017

This article examines the rise of the world's dependency on oil and the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries' (OPEC) dominance of the global oil market during the 1970s, OPEC's fall in the 1980s, and its resurgence in the 1990s. It contends that efforts by the Global North's
countries to conserve fuel and to develop alternative energy sources have proved a much more arduous task than at first thought. Although there has been some progress in this area, OPEC continues to dominate the world oil market in the twenty-first century, as global demand for and dependence
on oil continue to rise. A call is issued for solutions.
Will New Blood in the Leadership Produce New Blood on the Battlefield? The Impact of Regime Changes on Middle East Military Rivalries
Authors: Tures John A.
Published: May 2017

The Middle East has witnessed a recent spate of alterations in rulers and regimes. These new leaders are coming to power in countries having a history of international conflict with other states in the region. Will the change in government exacerbate interstate crises, producing disputes
and wars? Or will the nascent leadership steer their countries to peace, choosing instead to focus on an internal consolidation of power? To answer this question, this article examines the theories of foreign policy behavior of new leaders. It discusses the results of a quantitative analysis
of an earlier time frame: the initial years of the Cold War. The article then conducts a series of case study analyses of contemporary times to determine if the theory and prior statistical tests remain valid. The results show that new administrations are more likely to target rivals with
a threat, display, or limited use of force. Such incoming leaders, however, seem reluctant to drag their countries into a full-scale war. These findings hold for a variety of countries in a number of different contexts. Such results are relevant for Middle East scholars, conflict mediators,
as well as American foreign policymakers who seem to have adopted a taste for regime change in the region.
Syrian Motives for its WMD Programs and What to do About Them
Authors: Jouejati Murhaf
Published: May 2017

Syria's pursuit of weapons of mass destruction (WMD), or more specifically chemical weapons, developed as a direct response to its military rivalry with Israel, which possesses nuclear arms. Syria's weapons programs were not developed in order to achieve status or to intimidate its
neighbors, but rather within the context of the arms race with Israel. The article argues that a more effective means of removing WMD from Syria's arsenal than US sanctions would be to find a way to make progress in resolving the Arab-Israeli conflict.
Democratic Development in Oman
Authors: Jones Jeremy , Ridout Nicholas
Published: May 2017

Everyone accepts a one size fits all model cannot deliver successful democratic reform. But it is less widely understood that the process is open-ended, with no predetermined finishing line. Development depends on a political version of bio-diversity, in which democracy emerges organically
out of existing local traditions and practices. In the case of Oman a deeply rooted tradition of consultative rule, and the distinctive philosophy of Ibadism has been shaping democratic development for 30 years.
The Odd Couple: Ending The Jordanian-Syrian “Cold War”
Authors: Ryan Curtis R.
Published: May 2017

Of all the bilateral relationships between Arab states, the Jordanian-Syrian relationship has been among the most tumultuous. Jordanian-Syrian relations have, more often than not, been marked by varying degrees of mutual hostility and even violence. These periods of animosity have been
so frequent that they amounted to a local “Cold War” even in the midst of the many other conflicts in the region. But with regime changes in both Amman and Damascus, a marked thaw has emerged in Jordanian-Syrian relations, seemingly ending another long period of acrimony. But this
type of event has happened once before: in the late 1970s when Jordan and Syria shifted from antagonism to alliance. This article examines both the historic and current attempts to end the Jordanian-Syrian Cold War, so that the earlier episode may shed some light on the present and future
of Jordanian-Syrian relations.
The Political Economy of Lebanon Under Rafiq Hariri: An Interpretation
Authors: Nizameddin Talal
Published: May 2017

International consensus supported Lebanon's effort to rebuild its shattered economy after the civil war and Rafiq Hariri, with Saudi and Western backing, took over as Prime Minister in 1992 to oversee the reconstruction program. Yet persistent Syrian efforts through Lebanese allies,
including President Emile Lahoud, to undermine Hariri by blaming him for the country's economic woes raised suspicions that Damascus sought unrivalled influence in Lebanon. Hariri's efforts to privatize the corrupt state sector and attract direct foreign investment proved incompatible with
Syrian hegemony. Complex factors were behind Syria's stance, relating to its insecurity in Lebanon, heightened by perceptions of Hariri's association with the West and the personal financial interests of leaders of the Syrian Ba'th regime in Lebanon's economy. The crisis crossed the point
of no return with the extension of Lahoud's presidential term in September 2004.
The Economic Policies of Turkey's AKP Government: Rabbits from a Hat?
Authors: Patton Marcie J.
Published: May 2017

How can we account for the priority that Turkey's "Islam-sensitive" government has placed on adhering to the IMF's prescriptions for macroeconomic stability and fiscal restraint in lieu of its electoral promises to pursue a justice-oriented social agenda and aggressively tackle problems
of poverty and unemployment? In this article this question is answered by analyzing the challenges posed by international factors (debt sustainability, pressures by the IMF and the EU), as well as domestic factors (the Justice and Development Party's (AKP) own unpreparedness, oppositional
tactics by the secularist establishment) that have shaped the AKP government's economic policies.