bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A comparative corrosion study of electroless Ni-P coatings treated by microwave and conventional furnace annealing
Authors: Sahayaraj M. Edwin , Jappes Jepas T. Winowlin , Siva Irulappasamy , Saravanan Murugan Sundaram Senthil
Published: March 2014

This work aims at studying the corrosion behavior of electroless Ni-P coating on mild steel substrate heat-treated by microwave and conventional furnace (muffle) annealing. The corrosion behavior of the deposits has been evaluated by potentiodynamic polarization studies in 3.5 wt% sodium chloride solution. The heat treatment temperatures of both the microwave and the conventional furnace annealing were kept at regular intervals to study the corrosion performance of the coatings. Microwave heat treatment significantly improved the corrosion performance of the coatings. Further, corrosion mechanisms of as-coated, various microwave- and conventional heat-treated coatings were discussed for the consideration of phase constituents, grain sizes and microstrain.
Stable representation homology and Koszul duality
Authors: Berest Yuri , Ramadoss Ajay
Published: March 2014

This paper is a sequel to [Adv. Math. 245 (2013), 625–689], where we study the derived affine scheme

DRep
n

(
A
)

${{\mathrm {DRep}}_n(A)}$

parametrizing the n-dimensional representations of an associative k-algebra A.
In [Adv. Math. 245 (2013), 625–689], we have constructed canonical trace maps

Tr
n

(
A
)

•

:

HC
•

(
A
)

→

H
•

[

DRep
n

(
A
)

]

GL
n

${\operatorname{Tr}_n(A)_{\bullet }: \mathrm {HC}_{\bullet }(A) \rightarrow \mathrm {H}_{\bullet }[{\mathrm {DRep}}_n(A)]^{{\mathrm {GL}}_n} }$

extending the usual characters of representations to higher cyclic homology.
This raises the natural question whether a well-known theorem of Procesi [Adv. Math. 19
(1976), 306–381.] holds in the derived setting: namely, is the algebra homomorphism

Λ

Tr
n

(
A
)

•

:

Λ
k

[

HC
•

(
A
)

]

→

H
•

[

DRep
n

(
A
)

]

GL
n

${\Lambda \mathrm {Tr} _n(A)_{\bullet } : \Lambda _k[\mathrm {HC}_{\bullet }(A)] \rightarrow \mathrm {H}_{\bullet }[{\mathrm {DRep}}_n(A)]^{{\mathrm {GL}}_n}}$

defined by

Tr
n

(
A
)

•

${ \operatorname{Tr}_n(A)_{\bullet } }$

surjective?
In the present paper, we answer this question for augmented algebras.
Given such an algebra, we construct a canonical dense subalgebra

DRep
∞

(
A
)

Tr

${{\mathrm {DRep}}_{\infty }(A)^{\operatorname{Tr}}}$

of the topological DG algebra

lim
←

DRep
n

(
A
)

GL
n

${\varprojlim {\mathrm {DRep}}_n(A)^{{\mathrm {GL}}_n} }$

. Our main result is that on passing to the inverse limit, the family of maps

Λ

Tr
n

(
A
)

•

${\Lambda \mathrm {Tr} _n(A)_{\bullet }}$

`stabilizes' to an isomorphism

Λ
k

(

HC
¯

•

(
A
)

)

≅

H
•

[

DRep
∞

(
A
)

Tr

]

${\Lambda _k(\overline{\mathrm {HC}}_{\bullet }(A)) \cong \mathrm {H}_{\bullet }[{\mathrm {DRep}}_{\infty }(A)^{\operatorname{Tr}}]}$

.
The derived version of Procesi's theorem does therefore hold in the limit as n → ∞. However, for a fixed (finite) n, there exist homological obstructions to the surjectivity of

Λ

Tr
n

(
A
)

•

${ \Lambda \mathrm {Tr} _n(A)_{\bullet }}$

, and we show on simple examples that these obstructions do not vanish in general. We compare our result with the classical theorem of Loday, Quillen and
Tsygan on stable homology of matrix Lie algebras. We show that the Chevalley–Eilenberg complex

𝒞
•

(

𝔤𝔩
∞

(
A
)

,

𝔤𝔩
∞

(
k
)

;
k
)

${{\mathcal {C}}_\bullet ({\mathfrak {gl}}_\infty (A), {\mathfrak {gl}}_\infty (k); k)}$

equipped with a natural coalgebra structure is Koszul dual to the DG algebra

DRep
∞

(
A
)

Tr

${{\mathrm {DRep}}_{\infty }(A)^{\operatorname{Tr}}}$

. We also extend our main results to bigraded DG algebras, in which case we show the equality

DRep
∞

(
A
)

Tr

=

DRep
∞

(
A
)

GL
∞

${ {\mathrm {DRep}}_{\infty }(A)^{\operatorname{Tr}} = {\mathrm {DRep}}_{\infty }(A)^{{\mathrm {GL}}_{\infty }}}$

.
As an application, we compute the Euler characteristics of

DRep
∞

(
A
)

GL
∞

${{\mathrm {DRep}}_{\infty }(A)^{{\mathrm {GL}}_{\infty }}}$

and

HC
¯

•

(
A
)

${\overline{\mathrm {HC}}_{\bullet }(A)}$

and derive
some interesting combinatorial identities.
Clustering Methods Using Distance-Based Similarity Measures of Single-Valued Neutrosophic Sets
Authors: Ye Jun
Published: March 2014

Clustering plays an important role in data mining, pattern recognition, and machine learning. Single-valued neutrosophic sets (SVNSs) are useful means to describe and handle indeterminate and inconsistent information that fuzzy sets and intuitionistic fuzzy sets cannot describe and deal with. To cluster the data represented by single-valued neutrosophic information, this article proposes single-valued neutrosophic clustering methods based on similarity measures between SVNSs. First, we define a generalized distance measure between SVNSs and propose two distance-based similarity measures of SVNSs. Then, we present a clustering algorithm based on the similarity measures of SVNSs to cluster single-valued neutrosophic data. Finally, an illustrative example is given to demonstrate the application and effectiveness of the developed clustering methods.
MRI-guided laser interstitial thermal therapy of intracranial tumors and epilepsy: State-of-the-art review and a case study from pediatrics
Authors: Choi Hoon , Tovar-Spinoza Zulma
Published: March 2014

MRI-guided laser interstitial thermal therapy (MRgLITT) is gaining momentum in neurosurgery and has been described to treat brain metastases, primary tumors and radiation-induced necrosis with an excellent safety profile. LITT has been also used as a minimally invasive alternative to surgical treatment of refractory epilepsy for ablating single epileptogenic foci, such as tumors, hypothalamic hamartomas, cortical dysplasia and mesial temporal sclerosis. Novelty initial experience with multi-foci epileptogenic zones and tuberosclerosis patients is also reported. As new applications for this technology are developing and variations on its use are discussed, we present a review of the current uses and results of the LITT application on brain lesions.
Estimates of distributions for some functionals of stochastic processes from an Orlicz space
Authors: Kozachenko Yuriy , Sergiienko Mykola
Published: March 2014

We consider stochastic processes from an Orlicz space of random variables. There are obtained estimates for distributions of some functionals from this space. Square Gaussian stochastic processes are investigated in more detail.
Optimal control of interbank contagion under complete information
Authors: Minca Andreea , Sulem Agnès
Published: March 2014

We study a preferred equity infusion government program set to
mitigate interbank contagion. Financial institutions are prone to
insolvency risk channeled through the network of interbank debt and to
funding liquidity risk. The government seeks to maximize, under budget
constraints, the total net worth of the financial system or, equivalently,
to minimize the dead-weight losses induced by bank runs. The government is
assumed to have complete information on interbank debt. The problem of
quantifying the optimal amount of infusions can be expressed as a convex
combinatorial optimization problem, tractable when the set of banks eligible
for intervention (core banks) is sufficiently, yet realistically, small. We
find that no bank has an incentive to withdraw from the program, when the
preferred dividend rate paid to the government is equal to the government's
outside return on the intervention budget. On the other hand, it may be
optimal for the government to make infusions in a strict subset of core
banks.
The Influence of Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate on the Photoionization of the Ruthenium(tris)bipyridine Dication
Authors: Goez Martin , von Ramin-Marro Daniel , Schiewek Martin , Hussein Othman Musa Mohammad
Published: March 2014

Using single-pulse and two-pulse two-colour laser flash photolysis
(308 nm and 355 nm), we have quantitatively
studied the effect of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), at concentrations
above and below the critical micellar concentration (cmc), on the
cyclic photoionization of the ruthenium(tris)bipyridine dication in
aqueous medium. In contrast to reports in the literature (Chem. Phys. Lett. 315 (1999) 416) about a superincrease of the electron
yield by SDS concentrations in the range between 3.0 · 10
–4 M
and 4.5 · 10
–4 M we found that the observed absorption
increases are entirely due to background signals in the vicinity of an
insolubility range, as can be proved by difference experiments
(argon-saturated vs. N2O-saturated solutions); SDS has no
appreciable effect on the reaction below the cmc, and causes
a moderately increased electron yield above the cmc. By varying the
excitation intensities and analyzing the intensity dependences, we
have shown that that increase is not due to a facilitation of the
photoionization proper by the micelles but to a more efficient
photoreduction of the oxidized complex by SDS in that cyclic
mechanism.
Metformin synergistically enhances antiproliferative effects of cisplatin and etoposide in NCI-H460 human lung cancer cells
Authors: Teixeira Sarah Fernandes , Guimarães Isabella dos Santos , Madeira Klesia Pirola , Daltoé Renata Dalmaschio , Silva Ian Victor , Rangel Leticia Batista Azevedo
Published: March 2014

OBJECTIVE: To test the effectiveness of combining conventional antineoplastic drugs (cisplatin and etoposide) with metformin in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer in the NCI-H460 cell line, in order to develop new therapeutic options with high efficacy and low toxicity.METHODS: We used the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and calculated the combination index for the drugs studied.RESULTS: We found that the use of metformin as monotherapy reduced the metabolic viability of the cell line studied. Combining metformin with cisplatin or etoposide produced a synergistic effect and was more effective than was the use of cisplatin or etoposide as monotherapy.CONCLUSIONS: Metformin, due to its independent effects on liver kinase B1, had antiproliferative effects on the NCI-H460 cell line. When metformin was combined with cisplatin or etoposide, the cell death rate was even higher.
Can the single-breath helium dilution method predict lung volumes as measured by whole-body plethysmography?
Authors: Coertjens Patrícia Chaves , Knorst Marli Maria , Dumke Anelise , Pasqualoto Adriane Schmidt , Riboldi João , Barreto Sérgio Saldanha Menna
Published: March 2014

OBJECTIVE: To compare TLC and RV values obtained by the single-breath helium dilution (SBHD) method with those obtained by whole-body plethysmography (WBP) in patients with normal lung function, patients with obstructive lung disease (OLD), and patients with restrictive lung disease (RLD), varying in severity, and to devise equations to estimate the SBHD results.METHODS: This was a retrospective cross-sectional study involving 169 individuals, of whom 93 and 49 presented with OLD and RLD, respectively, the remaining 27 having normal lung function. All patients underwent spirometry and lung volume measurement by both methods.RESULTS: TLC and RV were higher by WBP than by SBHD. The discrepancy between the methods was more pronounced in the OLD group, correlating with the severity of airflow obstruction. In the OLD group, the correlation coefficient of the comparison between the two methods was 0.57 and 0.56 for TLC and RV, respectively (p < 0.001 for both). We used regression equations, adjusted for the groups studied, in order to predict the WBP values of TLC and RV, using the corresponding SBHD values. It was possible to create regression equations to predict differences in TLC and RV between the two methods only for the OLD group. The TLC and RV equations were, respectively, ∆TLCWBP-SBHD in L = 5.264 − 0.060 × FEV1/FVC (r2= 0.33; adjusted r2 = 0.32) and ∆RVWBP-SBHD in L = 4.862 − 0.055 × FEV1/FVC (r2= 0.31; adjusted r2 = 0.30).CONCLUSIONS: The correction of TLC and RV results obtained by SBHD can improve the accuracy of this method for assessing lung volumes in patients with OLD. However, additional studies are needed in order to validate these equations.
Double-Loop Technique Using Titanium Molybdenum Alloy Wire for Fabrication of Nasal Stents in Nasoalveolar Molding Therapy for Cleft Lip and Palate Patients
Authors: Nagraj Nikhil , Nagarjuna Muralidhara , Desai Anil Kumar , Gandedkar Narayan , Jayade Bhushan , Gopalakrishnan Kulandasami
Published: March 2014

This article presents a technique for fabricating a modified nasoalveolar molding appliance using 0.032-inch titanium-molybdenum alloy wire for nasal stents incorporating a double loop. The nasal stents are included in the acrylic molding plate at the time the appliance is inserted. The acrylic retention button used in a conventional appliance is replaced by a simple retention hook fabricated using titanium-molybdenum alloy wire. This technique is an effective alternative to a conventional appliance, and it simplifies the appliance-modification process during follow-up visits.
Static mechanical properties of polyvinyl alcohol fibre reinforced concrete (PVA-FRC)
Authors: Noushini Amin , Vessalas Kirk , Samali Bijan
Published: March 2014

This investigation assessed the performance of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fibres of 6 mm and 12 mm length in concrete. Based on total concrete volume, four fibre fractions (0·125, 0·25, 0·375 and 0·5%) were evaluated for their effect on fresh and hardened properties of PVA fibre reinforced concretes (PVA-FRCs). Fly ash was also used as partial replacement of Portland cement in all the mixes. By carrying out a comprehensive set of experiments (compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, modulus of rupture and residual flexural strength), it was observed that PVA fibre significantly enhances the static mechanical properties of concrete as well as improving its post-peak response and ductile behaviour.nerally withstood higher loads than SFRC. At room temperature, the axial tensile strength of NSFC was the highest at 2·66 MPa, which was 4·29 times that of NC and 52·9% higher than that of SFRC. The peak stress of NFSC was approximately 1·8 times that of SFRC. At 400°C, the axial tensile strength of NSFC was 3·09 MPa, 9·2% higher than that of SFRC and 119·7% higher than that of NC. At the test temperature, the fracture energy of NSFC was the highest, followed by SFRC, with NC showing the minimum fracture energy.
Individualized Plans of Care to Improve Outcomes Among Children and Adults With Chronic Illness: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lion K. Casey , Mangione-Smith Rita , Britto Maria T.
Published: March 2014

Background: Adults and children with chronic illness often require services from multiple providers. Individualized plans of care (IPCs) are sometimes developed to improve care coordination. However, their association with improved outcomes is unknown.

Methods: We searched literature published between January 2001 and October 2011, using Medline, CINAHL, EMBASE, PsychINFO, and bibliographic review. Eligible studies involved an IPC with input from the patient and/or family of individuals with chronic illness, evaluated outcomes, and were conducted in the United States. We assessed evidence quality using Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine criteria.

Results: 15 studies met inclusion criteria. Studies were heterogeneous regarding populations and outcomes examined and were generally low quality. Most described IPC use within a multifaceted care coordination intervention. The strongest evidence links IPC use and symptom improvement in depressed adults; the weakest evidence exists for outcomes in children. Vague descriptions of the IPCs’ limited analysis.

Conclusions: Current evidence supporting an association between IPC use and improved outcomes, particularly among children, is sparse. Well-designed evaluations of clearly described IPCs are needed to examine who should be involved in their development, what they should include, and how often they should be updated to improve outcomes of care for this vulnerable population.
Centralized Care Management Support for “High Utilizers” in Primary Care Practices at an Academic Medical Center
Authors: Williams Brent C. , Paik Jamie L. , Haley Laura L. , Grammatico Gina M.
Published: March 2014

Although evidence of effectiveness is limited, care management based outside primary care practices or hospitals is receiving increased attention. The University of Michigan (UM) Complex Care Management Program (CCMP) provides care management for uninsured and underinsured, high-utilizing patients in multiple primary care practices. To inform development of optimal care management models, we describe the CCMP model and characteristics and health care utilization patterns of its patients.

Of a consecutive series of 49 patients enrolled at CCMP in 2011, the mean (SD) age was 48 (±14); 23 (47%) were women; and 29 (59%) were White. Twenty-eight (57%) had two or more chronic medical conditions, 39 (80%) had one or more psychiatric condition, 28 (57%) had a substance abuse disorder, and 11 (22%) were homeless. Through phone, e-mail, and face-to-face contact with patients and primary care providers (PCPs), care managers coordinated health and social services and facilitated access to medical and mental health care. Patients had a mean (SD) number of hospitalizations and emergency room (ER) visits in 6 months prior to enrollment of 2.2 (2.5) and 4.2 (4.3), respectively, with a nonstatistically significant decrease in hospitalizations, hospital days, and emergency room visits in 6 months following enrollment in CCMP.

Centralized care management support for primary care practices engages high-utilizing patients with complex medical and behavioral conditions in care management that would be difficult to provide through individual practices and may decrease health care utilization by these patients.
Physical and Mental Health: From Youth to Age in Ohio Prisons
Authors: Lynd Alice
Published: March 2014

Who cares about health care in prisons? You do if you have a son or a granddaughter in prison. Maybe you care anyway if you have had to wait a long time to see a doctor or if you could not have the treatment you needed because it cost too much. Maybe you have run into the attitude, “You ain’t bleedin’, you ain’t needin’.” Maybe you have found it hard to face the future with little or no hope that you could ever be in a better place. Or maybe you, like some older prisoners, have been able to develop new interests, new skills, to review your life and review it, and to redefine what matters.
Glandular Odontogenic Cyst: Review of Literature and Report of a New Case with Cytokeratin-19 Expression
Authors: Mascitti Marco , Santarelli Andrea , Sabatucci Antonio , Procaccini Maurizio , Muzio Lorenzo Lo , Zizzi Antonio , Rubini Corrado
Published: March 2014

The glandular odontogenic cyst (GOC) was a rare jawbone cyst described in 1988 as a distinct entity. This lesion can involve either jaw, and the anterior region of the mandible was the most commonly affected area. Clinical and radiographic findings were not specific, and the diagnosis of GOC can be extremely difficult due to the rarity of this lesion. The cyst presented a wall constituted by fibrous connective tissue and was lined by a non-keratinized stratified squamous epithelium of variable thickness. Large areas of the lining epithelium presented cylinder cells, sometimes ciliated. A variable amount of mucina was occasionally noted. Due to the strong similarities, this cyst can be easily misdiag-nosed as a central mucoepidermoid carcinoma (CMEC). Immunohistochemistry may be an aid in diagnosis; in fact has been demonstrated that there were differences in the expression of cytokeratins (CK) in GOC and CMEC. In this study, we reported a new case of GOC in a 38 year female patient. In addition, we carried out a review of 110 previous cases reported in literature.
Antibacterial Efficacy Testing of a Bioelectric Wound Dressing Against Clinical Wound Pathogens
Authors: Kim Hosan , Makin Inder , Skiba Jeff , Ho Amy , Housler Greggory , Stojadinovic Alexander , Izadjoo Mina
Published: March 2014

Silver-based wound dressings have been developed for the control of bioburden in wounds. However, the popularity and extensive use of silver-based dressings has been associated with emerging microbial resistances to silver. In this study we examined in vitro antibacterial efficacy of a bioelectric dressing containing silver and zinc against various wound pathogens. Antibiotic-sensitive clinical wound isolates showed a 100% reduction in bacterial growth, except that Enterococcus faecalis isolate was shown to survive with a bacterial log10 reduction rate of less than 102 CFU. We also investigated antibacterial efficacy against the extended spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) bacteria, multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria, and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The bioelectric dressing was effective in killing wound pathogens including ESBL, MDR, and MRSA in vitro. Furthermore, based on the primary results against E. faecalis, we carried out extensive studies against several nosocomial Enterococcus species including vancomycin-resistant species. Overall, the vancomycin-sensitive or -resistant Enterococcus species were resistant to this dressing at up to 48 h, except for the vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus raffinosus isolate only showing a 100% bacterial reduction at 48 h, but not at 24 h. The results demonstrated the effective bactericidal activity of a bioelectric dressing against antibiotic-sensitive and MDR strains, but Enterococcus species are bacteriostatic.
Surgery Versus Pharmacological Treatment for Endometriosis
Authors: Avraham Sarit , Seidman Daniel S
Published: March 2014

The two major consequences of endometriosis are pain and infertility. Despite numerous studies and proposed guidelines, some aspects of the treatment for these complications are still under debate or lack convincing evidence that favors one approach over the other. Future studies will hopefully present new evidence in regard to the optimal treatment for each indication and suggest innovative pharmacotherapy following improved understanding of the pathophysiology of endometriosis. Until then, individualization of the treatment according to the specific indication, taking into consideration the benefits versus the risks for the patient and the tolerability profile, remains the most appropriate approach.
Urinary Incontinence in the Young Woman: Treatment Plans and Options Available
Authors: Robinson Dudley , Cardozo Linda
Published: March 2014

Urinary incontinence is a common and distressing condition, which, although not life-threatening, is known to have a significant effect on quality of life. The incidence of urinary incontinence increases with age and while stress urinary incontinence is more common in younger women, symptoms suggestive of overactive bladder are more common with increasing age. All women complaining of incontinence require simple investigation, and many will benefit from conservative and medical treatments, which may be instituted in primary care. Further investigation in the secondary-care setting should be reserved for those women with refractory or unusual symptoms. The aim of this paper is to review the epidemiology and pathophysiology of common causes of urinary incontinence in younger, premenopausal women, and to review the current algorithms for investigation and management. In addition, treatment paradigms covering conservative, medical and surgical treatment for stress urinary incontinence and overactive bladder will be reviewed.
ParoXetine: A First for Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors – a New Use: Approved for Vasomotor Symptoms in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Weber Lauren , Thacker Holly L
Published: March 2014

In the USA, over 30 million women are In or near menopause. Menopause Is associated with a cluster of Issues. Vasomotor symptoms (VMS) are the number one complaint of most menopausal women. VMS are disruptive to women during the day and at night, which leads to poor sleep, anxiety, depression and poor concentration. Up until now, the only US FDA-approved medication for moderate-to-severe VMS was hormone therapy. Hormone therapy may not be appropriate for all women. Many drugs are used off-label to treat VMS. The most often used agents are agents that are FDA-approved medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake Inhibitors and serotonin–norepinephrine reuptake Inhibitors. The pharmaceutical company, Noven Pharmaceuticals (FL, USA), has studied paroxetine mesylate 7.5 mg, previously known as low-dose mesylate salt of paroxetine, specifically to treat moderate-to-severe VMS In postmenopausal women. Paroxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake Inhibitor, and Is thought to help decrease VMS by regulating body temperature via neurotransmitters. Paroxetine Is approved to treat various psychiatric disorders, but Is used at much higher doses (20–60 mg/day).
Cytoreductive Surgery for Advanced Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Pölcher Martin , Zivanovic Oliver , Chi Dennis S
Published: March 2014

The amount of the largest diameter of visible residual tumor after cytoreductive surgery remains one of the strongest prognostic factors In advanced ovarian cancer. The Implementation of a more aggressive surgical approach to Increase the proportion of patients without visible residual tumor Is, therefore, a rational concept. Thus, the surgical management of advanced ovarian, primary peritoneal and fallopian tube cancers now Incorporates more comprehensive surgical procedures. However, these more extensive surgical procedures are associated with an Increased risk of morbidity, which may have a negative Impact on the oncologic outcome. In addition, It Is unclear whether all patients benefit from a comprehensive surgical Intervention In the same way or If there are patients whose disease course will not be Influenced by this approach. The methodologic analysis of surgical effectiveness Is complex and controversial owing to a lack of prospective surgical trials. This review acknowledges controversies and alms to discuss novel developments In the field of cytoreductive surgery for patients with ovarian, primary peritoneal and fallopian tube cancers. The focus of the review Is to discuss the role of surgery at Initial diagnosis. The role of secondary and tertiary surgery In the recurrent setting Is beyond the scope of this review.
Obstetrician/Gynecologist Care Considerations: Practice Changes in Disease Management with an Aging Patient Population
Authors: Raglan Greta , Lawrence Hal , Schulkin Jay
Published: March 2014

Demographic changes across the country are leading to an increased proportion of older Americans. This shift will likely lead to changes in the patient population seen by obstetrician/gynecologists, and practices may need to adapt to the needs of older women. This article looks at mental health, sexual health, bone loss, cardiovascular disease and cancer as areas in which obstetrician/gynecologists may experience changes with the increasing age of patients. While this is by no means a comprehensive list of changing areas of practice, it offers a guide for reflecting on the future of obstetrician/gynecologists training, and the importance of considering the needs of older patients in practice.
Positive psychological capital: A new approach to social support and subjective well-being
Authors: Li Bin , Ma Hongyu , Guo Yongyu , Xu Fuming , Yu Feng , Zhou Zongkui
Published: March 2014

A growing body of empirical evidence has shown that although social support (SS) can predict subjective well-being (SWB), the relationship between SS and SWB is still unclear. In this study we investigated the role that positive psychological capital (PPC) plays in the relationship
between SS and SWB. The results showed that PPC, SS, and SWB were positively related. The more important result, however, was that PPC mediated the relationship between SS and SWB. The findings are discussed in the context of the importance of PPC for SWB. Limitations in this study and implications
for future research are identified.
Transformational leadership and agency workers' organizational commitment: The mediating effect of organizational justice and job characteristics
Authors: Wang Xueli , Ma Lin , Zhang Mian
Published: March 2014

In this study we examined if perceptions of organizational justice and job characteristics mediate the relationship between transformational leadership and the organizational commitment of agency workers in a manufacturing plant in China. Questionnaires were used to evaluate perceived
organizational justice, perceived job characteristics, exposure to transformational leadership, and organizational commitment in 300 agency workers. The results support a structural model whereby transformational leadership is both directly and indirectly associated with the organizational
commitment of agency workers, through perceived organizational justice and job characteristics.
Locus of control, moral disengagement in sport, and rule transgression of athletes
Authors: Tsai Ju-Je , Wang Chien-Hsin , Lo Hung-Jen
Published: March 2014

We explored the relationships among locus of control, moral disengagement in sport, and rule transgression of athletes and whether or not moral disengagement mediates the relationship between locus of control and rule transgression. The participants were 462 athletes at a college in
Taiwan. The instruments were the Sport Locus of Control Scale, the Moral Disengagement in Sport Scale, and the Rule Transgression Scale. The results revealed that a high external locus of control was positively related to moral disengagement in sport and frequent rule transgression. The relationship
between locus of control and rule transgression was mediated by moral disengagement in sport. We suggest that athletes with an external locus of control should receive moral education to the end of enhancing the quality of sports contests and competitions through fewer rule transgressions
and greater moral engagement.
Effects of psychological distance on assessment of severity of water pollution
Authors: Zhang Wei , He Gui-Bing , Zhu Yue , Cheng Long
Published: March 2014

We conducted 2 studies to investigate the role of psychological distance in the assessment of degree of severity of water pollution. In Study 1, 132 participants evaluated the severity of water pollution with 3 dimensions of psychological distance, that is, temporal, social, and probability,
each comprising 3 levels. Results showed that temporal distance did not have a significant influence on the assessment of the severity of water pollution, whereas probability and social distance did. In Study 2, 146 participants evaluated the severity of water pollution in three 2 ×
2 designs and one 2 × 2 × 2 design. Results demonstrated that, when the 3 psychological distances coexisted, the main effect of probability distance on severity assessment was significant, but neither temporal nor social distance had a significant effect.
Moderating effects of proactive personality on factors influencing work engagement based on the job demands-resources model
Authors: Li Li , Mao Sida
Published: March 2014

Most researchers who have employed the job demands-resources (JD-R) model to investigate the factors influencing work engagement, have omitted the effects of personal characteristics. In this study, we discussed the moderating effects of proactive personality on the influence of social
support and work-family conflict (WFC) on work engagement. Participants comprised 477 workers in several airports in eastern China. The results showed that social support had a positive effect on work engagement, and WFC had a negative effect on work engagement. These influences were moderated
by the proactive personality of the individual. We have also discussed the role of personality in the JD-R model.
The impact of relative leader-member exchange on employees' work behaviors as mediated by psychological contract fulfillment
Authors: Li Hu , Feng Zhiyu , Liu Chunlin , Cheng Dejun
Published: March 2014

Relative leader-member exchange (RLMX) is a reflection of the social comparison process, and employees go through a process of social exchange when they display specific behaviors and attitudes in their workplace role, with psychological contract (PC) fulfillment playing a mediating
role between these 2 social processes. We conducted a survey to analyze paired leader-staff samples in 39 bank branches in order to examine the influence of RLMX on employees' work behaviors and the mechanism that operates between these 2 factors. The results showed that RLMX affected employee
task performance and innovative behavior, and that PC fulfillment played a full mediating role in this relationship.
The effects of television viewing, cultural proximity, and ethnocentrism on country image
Authors: Yoo Jae-Woong , Jo Samsup , Jung Jaemin
Published: March 2014

We explored the effect of viewing Korean drama miniseries television programs, along with cultural proximity and ethnocentrism, on Japanese and Chinese television watchers' perceptions of Korea. By conducting a survey in Beijing and China with 621 valid samples, we confirmed the effect
of viewing Korean drama miniseries television programs in shaping a positive attitude toward Korea. Furthermore, this positive attitude yielded higher levels of behavioral intentions such as visiting Korea or buying Korean products. Cultural proximity was also found to be a significant variable
in predicting positive attitudes toward Korea. However, contrary to the findings in previous studies, in this study the effect of ethnocentrism was not significant.
Changes of Functional Ability in Patients With Spinal Cord Injury With and Without Falls During 6 Months After Discharge
Authors: Wannapakhe Jirabhorn , Arayawichanon Preeda , Saengsuwan Jiamjit , Amatachaya Sugalya
Published: March 2014

Background

Ambulatory patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) encounter a high risk of falls. However, most of the fall data in the literature were subjectively reported, without evidence to confirm the functional ability of those with and without falls.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to prospectively evaluate changes in functional ability relating to falls in participants with SCI who fell and those who did not fall during the 6-month period after discharge.

Design

A 6-month prospective design was used in the study.

Method

Fifty independent ambulatory participants with SCI were assessed for their functional ability using the Timed “Up & Go” Test, 10-Meter Walk Test, Berg Balance Scale, and Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) prior to discharge and 6 months afterward. After discharge, the participants' fall data were monitored monthly to categorize them into faller (≥1 fall in 6 months) and nonfaller (no fall) groups.

Results

Twenty-seven participants (54%) fell, and their baseline functional abilities were obviously lower than those who did not fall. After 6 months, the functional ability of these participants showed significant improvement for every test, whereas those who did not fall demonstrated a significant improvement only for the 6MWT. After adjusting for the baseline data, the functional ability at 6 months showed no significant differences between the groups.

Limitations

The study did not monitor physical activities of the participants during the follow-up period. The findings on fear of falling were subjectively reported by the participants.

Conclusions

Participants with SCI are commonly characterized as being active and enthusiastic, which may drive their physical activities. However, sensorimotor impairments following SCI hinder their ability to move safely, particularly in those with more functional deterioration. Therefore, greater functional improvement is accompanied by a higher risk of falls. Because falls can induce serious consequences, rehabilitation professionals may need to seek strategies to improve safety issues during movement for these patients, particularly in their own environments.
Zika virus infection complicated by Guillain-Barré syndrome – case report, French Polynesia, December 2013
Authors: Oehler E , Watrin L , Larre P , Leparc-Goffart I , Lastère S , Valour F , Baudouin L , Mallet H P , Musso D , Ghawche F
Published: March 2014

Binary file ES_Abstracts_Final_ECDC.txt matches
Combined endoscopic transforaminal-transchoroidal approach for the treatment of third ventricle colloid cysts
Authors: Iacoangeli Maurizio , di Somma Lucia Giovanna Maria , Di Rienzo Alessandro , Alvaro Lorenzo , Nasi Davide , Scerrati Massimo
Published: March 2014

Colloid cysts are histologically benign lesions whose primary goal of treatment should be complete resection to avoid recurrence and sudden death. Open surgery is traditionally considered the standard approach, but, recently, the endoscopic technique has been recognized as a viable and safe alternative to microsurgery. The endoscopic approach to colloid cysts of the third ventricle is usually performed through the foramen of Monro. However, this route does not provide adequate visualization of the cyst attachment on the tela choroidea. The combined endoscopic transforaminal-transchoroidal approach (ETTA), providing exposure of the entire cyst and a better visualization of the tela choroidea, could increase the chances of achieving a complete cyst resection. Between April 2005 and February 2011, 19 patients with symptomatic colloid cyst of the third ventricle underwent an endoscopic transfrontal-transforaminal approach. Five of these patients, harboring a cyst firmly adherent to the tela choroidea or attached to the middle/posterior roof of the third ventricle, required a combined ETTA. Postoperative MRI documented a gross-total resection in all 5 cases. There were no major complications and only 1 patient experienced a transient worsening of the memory deficit. To date, no cyst recurrence has been observed. An ETTA is a minimally invasive procedure that can allow for a safe and complete resection of third ventricle colloid cysts, even in cases in which the lesions are firmly attached to the tela choroidea or located in the middle/posterior roof of the third ventricle.
Radiosurgery for low-grade intracranial arteriovenous malformations
Authors: Ding Dale , Yen Chun-Po , Xu Zhiyuan , Starke Robert M. , Sheehan Jason P.
Published: March 2014

Object

Low-grade, or Spetzler-Martin (SM) Grades I and II, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are associated with lower surgical morbidity rates than higher-grade lesions. While radiosurgery is now widely accepted as an effective treatment approach for AVMs, the risks and benefits of the procedure for low-grade AVMs, as compared with microsurgery, remain poorly understood. The authors of this study present the outcomes for a large cohort of low-grade AVMs treated with radiosurgery.

Methods

From an institutional radiosurgery database comprising approximately 1450 AVM cases, all patients with SM Grade I and II lesions were identified. Patients with less than 2 years of radiological follow-up, except those with complete AVM obliteration, were excluded from analysis. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional-hazards and logistic regression analyses were used to determine factors associated with obliteration, radiation-induced changes (RICs), and hemorrhage following radiosurgery.

Results

Five hundred two patients harboring low-grade AVMs were eligible for analysis. The median age was 35 years, 50% of patients were male, and the most common presentation was hemorrhage (47%). The median AVM volume and prescription dose were 2.4 cm3 and 23 Gy, respectively. The median radiological and clinical follow-up intervals were 48 and 62 months, respectively. The cumulative obliteration rate was 76%. The median time to obliteration was 40 months, and the actuarial obliteration rates were 66% and 80% at 5 and 10 years, respectively. Independent predictors of obliteration were no preradiosurgery embolization (p < 0.001), decreased AVM volume (p = 0.005), single draining vein (p = 0.013), lower radiosurgery-based AVM scale score (p = 0.016), and lower Virginia Radiosurgery AVM Scale (Virginia RAS) score (p = 0.001). The annual postradiosurgery hemorrhage rate was 1.4% with increased AVM volume (p = 0.034) and lower prescription dose (p = 0.006) as independent predictors. Symptomatic and permanent RICs were observed in 8.2% and 1.4% of patients, respectively. No preradiosurgery hemorrhage (p = 0.011), a decreased prescription dose (p = 0.038), and a higher Virginia RAS score (p = 0.001) were independently associated with postradiosurgery RICs.

Conclusions

Spetzler-Martin Grade I and II AVMs are very amenable to successful treatment with stereotactic radiosurgery. While patient, physician, and institutional preferences frequently dictate the final course of treatment, radiosurgery offers a favorable risk-to-benefit profile for the management of low-grade AVMs.
Should ventriculoatrial shunting be the procedure of choice for normal-pressure hydrocephalus?
Authors: McGovern Robert A. , Kelly Kathleen M. , Chan Andrew K. , Morrissey Nicholas J. , McKhann Guy M.
Published: March 2014

Object

Ventriculoatrial (VA) shunting is rarely used for patients with normal-pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), likely due to surgeon technical preference and case reports indicating cardiopulmonary complications. However, these complications have typically been limited to adults in whom VA shunts had been placed when they were children. Few studies have directly compared VA shunting to ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunting in cases of NPH.

Methods

The authors retrospectively analyzed all NPH patients treated by a single surgeon at their center from January 2002 through December 2011. Thirty patients were treated with VA shunts (14 male) and 157 with VP shunts (86 male). The patients' mean age (± SD) at surgery was 73.7 ± 9.4 years for VA shunting and 76.0 ± 8.2 years for VP shunting; the median durations of follow-up were 42.0 months (IQR 19.2–63.6 months) and 34.2 months (IQR 15.8–67.5), respectively. Statistical analysis was performed using chi-square tests and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests.

Results

Perioperative and postoperative complications for VA and VP shunting cohorts, respectively, included distal revision (2.7% vs 6.6%, p = 0.45), proximal revision (2.7% vs 2.5%, p = 0.97), and postoperative seizure (2.7% vs 1.5%, p = 0.62). Shunt drainage–related subdural hematomas/hygromas developed in 8.1%/27.0% of VA shunt–treated patients versus 6.6%/26.4% of VP shunt–treated patients (p = 0.76/0.98) and were nearly always successfully managed with programmable-valve adjustment. Symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (1.5%) and shunt infection (2.0%) were only observed in those who underwent VP shunting. Of note, no cardiovascular complications were observed in any patient, and there were no cases of distal occlusion of the VA shunt.

Conclusions

The authors found no significant differences in complication rates between VA and VP shunting, and VA shunting was not associated with any cardiopulmonary complications. Thus, in the authors' experience, VA shunting is at least as safe as VP shunting for treating NPH.
Radiosensitization of malignant gliomas following intracranial delivery of paclitaxel biodegradable polymer microspheres
Authors: Gabikian Patrik , Tyler Betty M. , Zhang Irma , Li Khan W. , Brem Henry , Walter Kevin A.
Published: March 2014

Object

The aim of this study was to demonstrate that paclitaxel could function as a radiosensitizer for malignant glioma in vitro and in vivo.

Methods

The radiosensitizing effect of paclitaxel was tested in vitro using the human U373MG and rat 9L glioma cell lines. Cell cycle arrest in response to paclitaxel exposure was quantified by flow cytometry. Cells were subsequently irradiated, and toxicity was measured using the clonogenic assay. In vivo studies were performed in Fischer 344 rats implanted with intracranial 9L gliosarcoma. Rats were treated with control polymer implants, paclitaxel controlled-release polymers, radiotherapy, or a combination of the 2 treatments. The study end point was survival.

Results

Flow cytometry demonstrated G2-M arrest in both U373MG and 9L cells following 6–12 hours of paclitaxel exposure. The order in which the combination treatment was administered was significant. Exposure to radiation treatment (XRT) during the 6–12 hours after paclitaxel treatment resulted in a synergistic reduction in colony formation. This effect was greater than the effect from either treatment alone and was also greater than the effect of radiation exposure followed by paclitaxel. Rats bearing 9L gliosarcoma tumors treated with paclitaxel polymer administration followed by single-fraction radiotherapy demonstrated a synergistic improvement in survival compared with any other treatment, including radiotherapy followed by paclitaxel treatment. Median survival for control animals was 13 days; for those treated with paclitaxel alone, 21 days; for those treated with XRT alone, 21 days; for those treated with XRT followed by paclitaxel, 45 days; and for those treated with paclitaxel followed by XRT, more than 150 days (p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

These results indicate that paclitaxel is an effective radiosensitizer for malignant gliomas because it renders glioma cells more sensitive to ionizing radiation by causing G2-M arrest, and induces a synergistic response to chemoradiotherapy.
Assessment of the impact of comorbidities on perioperative complications in pediatric neurosurgery
Authors: Patel Akash J. , Sivaganesan Ahilan , Bollo Robert J. , Brayton Alison , Luerssen Thomas G. , Jea Andrew
Published: March 2014

Object

Recent attempts to control health care costs focus on reducing or eliminating payments for complications, hospital-acquired conditions, and provider preventable conditions, with payment restrictions applied uniformly. A patient's preexisting comorbidities likely influence the perioperative complication incidence. This relationship has not previously been examined in pediatric neurosurgery.

Methods

The authors conducted a retrospective assessment of prospectively collected relevant patient comorbidities and morbidity and mortality events at a large pediatric neurosurgical unit over a 5-year period. The authors examined the impact of specific comorbidities and the cumulative effect of multiple comorbidities on complication incidence.

Results

A total of 1990 patients underwent 3195 procedures at the authors' institution during the 5-year study period. Overall, 396 complications were analyzed; 298 patients (15.0%) experienced at least one complication. One or more comorbidities were present in 45.9% of patients. Renal comorbidities were clearly associated with the increased incidence of complications (p = 0.02), and they were specifically associated with infection (p = 0.006). Neurological comorbidities had a borderline association with complications (p = 0.05), and they were specifically associated with death (p = 0.037). A patient's having more comorbidities did not correlate with an increased risk of a perioperative complication (p = 0.8275).

Conclusions

The complication incidence in pediatric neurosurgery is variable and may be influenced by the type of neurosurgical procedure and patient-related factors. While patient-related factors beyond the control of the provider can significantly impact complications and hospital-acquired conditions in pediatric neurosurgery, an increasing number of comorbidities do not correlate with an increased risk of complications per patient.