bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolation and Characterization of Cancer Stem Cells in Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Lucarelli Giuseppe , Galleggiante Vanessa , Rutigliano Monica , Vavallo Antonio , Ditonno Pasquale , Battaglia Michele
Published: December 2014

Recently, several studies have investigated the presence of cancer stem cells in kidney cancer, performed characterization, and compared their profile with the normal stem cell counterparts. CD133, alone or in combination with other molecular markers, has been used to isolate normal and cancer stem cells from different sources, including renal carcinoma; however, it is still a matter of debate whether CD133+cells really represent the main tumorigenic population within the heterogeneous pool of cancer cells that characterize this tumor. In this review, we summarize and discuss the current findings related to cancer stem cells isolation in renal cell carcinoma, focusing on controversies about their origin and the identification of a specific marker.
A Survey of Postsecondary Art Educators’ Workplace Concerns
Authors: Milbrandt Melody K. , Klein Sheri R.
Published: December 2014

Early in the fall of 2006, an invitation to participate in a survey entitled the NAEA Higher Education Demographics, Interests and Needs Assessment was distributed to art teacher educators via the National Art Education Higher Education Listserv. The purpose of the survey was to gather information regarding the demographics and workplace conditions of art educators in higher education. This article shared findings and addresses workplace issues related to art educator faculty salaries, workloads, promotion and tenure policies, and collective bargaining practices in the field of art education.
From Risk Management to Democratic Governance of the Development of Technique
Authors: Compagnon Daniel ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: December 2014

Using the work of Jacques Ellul on technique and its development, this paper criticizes the technological risk management discourse, which claims that risks are “managed” within reasonable limits. In fact, the inevitability of technological change and the uncertainty associated with technology-induced environmental risks, some of which are still totally unknown, undermine the very possibility of democratic governance of risk. Our reliance on technique and the common belief in its infallibility make it particularly arduous to the follow the path showed by Ellul.
How Many in One?
Authors: Sharon Valerie V. , Swarthout Mary B.
Published: December 2014

Unit rates are used to develop the invert-and-multiply algorithm for fraction division in this exploration, which contains activity sheets.
CED-3 caspase acts with miRNAs to regulate non-apoptotic gene expression dynamics for robust development in C. elegans
Authors: Weaver Benjamin P , Zabinsky Rebecca , Weaver Yi M , Lee Eui Seung , Xue Ding , Han Min
Published: November 2014

Genetic redundancy and pleiotropism have limited the discovery of functions associated with miRNAs and other regulatory mechanisms. To overcome this, we performed an enhancer screen for developmental defects caused by compromising both global miRISC function and individual genes in Caenorhabditis elegans. Among 126 interactors with miRNAs, we surprisingly found the CED-3 caspase that has only been well studied for its role in promoting apoptosis, mostly through protein activation. We provide evidence for a non-apoptotic function of CED-3 caspase that regulates multiple developmental events through proteolytic inactivation. Specifically, LIN-14, LIN-28, and DISL-2 proteins are known miRNA targets, key regulators of developmental timing, and/or stem cell pluripotency factors involved in miRNA processing. We show CED-3 cleaves these proteins in vitro. We also show CED-3 down-regulates LIN-28 in vivo, possibly rendering it more susceptible to proteasomal degradation. This mechanism may critically contribute to the robustness of gene expression dynamics governing proper developmental control.
EU and Open Access: The OpenAIRE project
Authors: Frantsvåg Jan Erik
Published: December 2014

This presentation will first look at how EU looks at Open Access, and then present the OpenAIRE project, in particular how this is planned to be implemented in Norway.
Incentive or penalty for researchers to make their publications freely accessible? The practice of Oslo University College.
Authors: Haugen Trine B
Published: December 2014

As with other higher education institutions in Norway, Oslo University College (OUC) receives public funding for the published outlets based on the national documentation system. OUC has developed an internal system to stimulate the researchers to make their peer-reviewed scientific articles available in the institutional open digital archive (ODA). When an article is not transferred to ODA, the money allocated to the faculty based on this publication, is reduced by 50%.
A business model for reinforcing the societal impact of publicly funded scholarly journals
Authors: Sivertsen Gunnar
Published: December 2014

A large part of the scholarly journal articles from the humanities and social sciences at Norwegian research institutions are published in a small number of national or common Nordic journals. Many of these journals are sponsored by the Research Council of Norway on the national or Nordic level. The institutions that mainly contribute to the contents of the journals are also the main subscribers. The journals can be made open to society with only marginal extra costs for the institutions themselves and the sponsor.
Enhanced Publications in the Netherlands
Authors: Van Berchum Marnix
Published: December 2014

One of the subjects of the SURFshare programme of SURFfoundation - started in 2007 and ending this year - were Enhanced Publications (in Dutch: 'Verrijkte Publicaties'). The first projects of the programma started with experiments on how to create, store, and access Enhanced Publications. Together with Dutch higher education and research institutions in the next years tools were developed, such as an OJS plugin and a visualizer; 2011 saw several smaller projects were researchers themselves made Enhanced Publications. This presentation will give an overview of these developments of the SURFshare programme.
Tendering the purchase of Open Access publishing
Authors: Longva Leif
Published: December 2014

Vitenskapelig publisering i form av Open access (OA) er en modell der tidsskriftenes og utgivernes tjenester finansieres på andre måter enn gjennom betaling for adgang. Den åpenbare fordelen med dette er at alle har adgang til artiklene, og forskningen som dokumenteres der kan dermed komme flere til nytte. En vanlig finansieringsmodell, især for de kommersielle OA-tidsskriftene, er at betaling følger forfatterne gjennom såkalt Article Processing Charge (APC). Dette kan fort beløpe seg til 15 000 kroner eller mer (USD 3000) for en artikkel. De tradisjonelle abonnements­finansierte tidsskriftene, som (normalt) ikke krever en slik forfatter­betaling, har således en klar fordel i konkurransen om forfatternes artikkelmanus. I erkjennelse av fordelene med OA-publisering, og for å avhjelpe denne ulempen, har en del institusjoner etablert fond for dekning av APC-betaling for institusjonens forskere. Forskerne som får dekket APC fra et slikt fond, har ikke noe insentiv til å vurdere prisen mellom ulike tidsskrifter før de velger hvor deres manuskripter skal sendes. Det er ikke en gunstig modell når den som beslutter å kjøpe en tjeneste ikke er den som betaler. Pris vil da være av underordnet betydning, når forfatter gjør sitt valg av tidsskrift å sende artikkelen til, og utgiverne kan til en viss grad diktere pris.Tidsskriftenes publisering av forskningsartikler (basert på offentlig finansiert forskning) er å betrakte som en tjeneste de gjør for artikkelforfatterne, og også for forskersamfunnet og det øvrige samfunnet. Så sant betaling for denne tjenesten gjennom APC finansieres av offentlige midler, kan dette ses på som offentlig kjøp av en tjeneste. Da er det i offentlig interesse å sørge for å få mest mulig for pengene. Dette pleier det offentlige å sørge for ved å lyse ut anbud for det aktuelle innkjøpet. Kunne det være mulig også for kjøp av publiseringstjenester? I denne presentasjonen ønsker jeg å drøfte mulige modeller for offentlig anbud for kjøp av publisering av vitenskapelige artikler.
Megajournals and what they mean for the future of scientific publishing
Authors: Pattinson Damian
Published: December 2014

Since it launched five years ago, PLOS ONE has redefined the scientific journal. The broad publication criteria and lack of page limit allowed PLOS ONE to grow at a rate never seen before in the industry, to a level where it needed its own category: the Megajournal. Recently, other publishers have sought to emulate the success of PLOS ONE with releases of their own megajournals. These new journals all have similar properties: full Open Access, editorial criteria based on sound science and not on significance or impact, fast turnaround, broad scope. In this talk I shall discuss the features of megajournals, their benefits and weaknesses, and what their arrival means for the future of scientific publishing.
How can Open Access improve the possibilities to be seen? Collaborations with Northwest Russia and Balticum.
Authors: Bjertnæs Lars
Published: December 2014

(Abstract missing)
The 'publish or perish'-pressure - beneficial to academic research?
Authors: Planque Benjamin
Published: December 2014

The pressure to publish or so called rule of 'publish or perish' is now pervasive in many universities and research institutes. The development of worldwide scale bibliometric tools now allows for monitoring of the scientific production of individuals, by scientists and non-scientists alike. On the basis of few examples from the literature and my personal experience I will discuss the side effects on such development on the way research and education are prioritized and conducted in natural sciences and how this may be connected to the rapid increase in the number of scientific journals, often with open access policies.
ReView: a new approach to peer review, using WordPress
Authors: Bazargan Kaveh
Published: December 2014

The most requirements for a peer review system are a robust database, and comprehensive and secure control of user roles. Traditionally, peer review systems have been written from the ground up, requiring substantial manpower. We have found that using WordPress as the foundation of the system can result in a surprisingly flexible PR system with a user-friendly interface. By incorporating modified versions of available plugins, it is possible to incorporate unconventional functionality, e.g. a social network module.
Experiences from the publication fund of the University of Tromsø
Authors: Frantsvåg Jan Erik
Published: December 2014

The publication fund of the University of Tromsø has been in operation for a year and a half, and see strong growth in the demand for funding.
Taylor & Francis Open Access Survey: Exploring Authors Views of Taylor & Francis and Routledge Authors Victoria Babbit
Authors: Babbit Victoria
Published: December 2014

See video of the presentation.In late 2012 and the early part of 2013, Taylor & Francis conducted an author survey to investigate views on Open Access, peer review, re-use, metrics and licensing.  The survey drew responses from over 14 700 authors and has provided insight into authors’ attitudes towards publishing, access and re-use in this changing publishing climate.  Greater interest in licensing and re-use from authors, learned societies and editors derives, in part, from the establishment of institutional and funder OA publication mandates.  While there appears to be growing support for the CC-BY license from certain sectors of the academic publishing community, the Taylor & Francis survey found that there is some concern about the wholesale application of CC-BY licenses and the types of re-use this license permits.  This presentation will focus on the survey findings regarding re-use and licensing and explore some of the areas of concern voiced by our authors.
Visibility and (alt)metrics of the Croatian Open Access (OA) journals
Authors: Stojanovski Jadranka
Published: December 2014

See video of the presentation.For a small research community from the so called scientific periphery it's important to publish in the well-established international journals as well as to make their papers published in local journals visible to the international audience. In this paper we present how the portal of the Croatian scientific journals HRCAK influence the visibility of more than 300 included Open Access (OA) journals. Longitudinal shifts in journal content and distribution among scientific disciplines are observed. Different kind of journal and article metrics have been analysed and compared for HRCAK OA journals indexed in Scopus and Web of Science databases, examining the effect of OA on usage and citations.The results of the continuous work with Croatian journal publishers, National board for scholarly publishing responsible for subsidizing journal editorials, and with the most popular bibliographic databases producers are presented. Some desirable directions for the future development of the scholarly publishing in Croatia are indicated.
Two Open-Access Experiments in HSS: Journal and Monograph Publishing
Authors: Neuman Yrsa
Published: December 2014

See video of the presentation.Within the Agora project (2011-13), two Open Access experiments in HSS Open Access publication, within philosophy specifically, have been carried out. One with journal publishing, one with monograph publishing. Our preliminary monograph experiment results show that certain hybrid Open Access business models are very promising for publishers and scholars alike. For the 27 monographs from Ontos Verlag which were made OA, access to the publications rose remarkably and our results show that OA does not reduce revenue - instead it either increases revenue or is revenue neutral. Our journal experiment shows that Open Review and Open Access can well be combined with a printed journal, and that delays do not prohibit sales to libraries. I will tell you how, and why, in my presentation. Apart from the results of our study, I will discuss some of the difficulties which hybrid OA publications may run into.
The Phaidra Experience II
Authors: Budroni Paolo
Published: December 2014

Subtitle: A project for the permanent storing of digital objects at the University of Vienna “Open Access is not only defined as offering unfettered access to scientific literature, but also – and above all – free access to the very instrument of publication itself. The content provider in research (the owner of the digital objects) should always have the ability to publish digital objects and assign usage licenses to them and without bureaucratic restrictions.” (Phaidra Policy)Phaidra, an acronym for Permanent Hosting, Archiving and Indexing of Digital Resources and Assets, is an all-university digital asset management system with permanent storing functions.Phaidra provides a technological basis for the realization of the Berlin Declaration on Open Access to Knowledge in the Sciences and Humanities, which was signed on January 26, 2010, by the Rector of the University of Vienna at that time. In the development of Phaidra, the challenge of alternative Nobel Prize-winner Harold Varmus was observed, which stipulates that a majority of research is financed by taxes – and the impending results are then to be made public.Phaidra is an “open” system. Not only in that it was developed based on open source software, but access to the system is available without restrictions to all members of the University of Vienna – teachers and students. The active use of Phaidra, that is, the storing and linking of objects – without bureaucratic obstacles (red tape) – is open to users with a mailbox account, typically employees of the University of Vienna, as well as externals who obtain permission, and students with a u:net account. Searching and viewing the contents – if desired – is possible worldwide without logging in. All members are permitted to invite guests (guest accounts).
Enabling change in scholarly publishing in Greece
Authors: Nafpliotis Alexandros
Published: December 2014

(Abstract missing)
MedOANet Guidelines for implementing open access policies
Authors: Nafpliotis Alexandros
Published: December 2014

(Abstract missing)
Basic study on force induction using dielectric barrier microplasma array
Authors: Shimizu Kazuo , Mizuno Yoshinori , Blajan Marius
Published: December 2014

Kinetic force induction using dielectric barrier microplasma at atmospheric was experimentally investigated in this study. Owing to a micrometer-scale (25 µm) gap, microplasma was generated at only −1.4 kV in atmospheric air. Emission spectrum measurements were determine to identify the microplasma characteristics. Light emission of the N2 second positive system (SPS) was observed. The lifetime of emission signals for the N2 SPS for the microplasma was about 50 ns. SiO2 glass beads of 50 µm diameter were distributed on the surface of an electrode to observe the kinetic force generated by microplasma. Glass bead movements were observed using the Nd; YVO4 laser of 532 nm wavelength and a high-speed camera. When the microplasma electrodes were energized at −1.4 kV, the glass beads moved. Analysis of the obtained photo data showed that the glass beads rose to 5 mm above the microplasma electrodes at a velocity of 1 mm/ms.
Changes in Urban Agricultural Landscape Affect Community Food Security: A GIS-based Analysis
Authors: BAGARINAO RICARDO T.
Published: December 2014

Community food security, which is a relatively new concept, has become a global concern amidst momentous impacts of climate change in severalcommunities across the globe. Urban areas in the Philippines, like Calamba Cityin Laguna province, are not exempted from the impacts of climate change. Urbanagriculture landscapes play important roles in establishing community foodsecurity. The study analyzed an urban agricultural landscape in the Philippinesthrough the use of patch analyst extension in a geographic information system(GIS). The study employed the geospatial and temporal image processing andanalysis research method to compare two sets of land use-land cover (LULC)maps, i.e. 2003 and 2010 from NAMRIA. Two landscape metrics were used in the comparison: mean patch size (MPS) and mean shape index (MSI). The landscape consists of two agricultural patches (i.e. annual cropland and perennialcropland) with MPS and MSI values (i.e. MPS = 1,088.15 vs. 274.55 has; MSI= 3.87 vs. 1.94) that significantly changed from 2003 to 2010. Such change maylead to a food production system that is more dependent on external supplies. Externally supported food production system can threaten the local community’sfood security in the long term.Keywords: Landscape ecology, community food security, geographic information system,mean patch size, mean shape index, urban agricultural landscape, descriptivedesign, Philippines
An Assessment of the Physicochemical Parameters of Mananga River, Cebu, Philippines
Authors: Flores Mary Joyce L. , Zafaralla Macrina T.
Published: December 2014

The Mananga River today is a source of potable water to meet the demands of a fast growing Cebu metropolis. The physicochemical parameters of Mananga River were studied to assess its water quality status. Six sample collections were done from February to December 2006 in 3 monitoring stations covering the upstream (S1), midstream (S2) and downstream (S3) of Mananga River. Results showed significant spatial variation (p<0.05) in the studied physicochemical parameters except for alkalinity, total phosphates and nitrate-nitrogen (NO3-N). Significant temporal variation (p<0.05) was also observed for the factors except for stream width, biological oxygen demand (BOD5) and total suspended solids (TSS). Flow velocity showed significant positive correlation with discharge, pH, DO and NO3-N, and negative correlation with water temperature and TSS. Water temperature correlated negatively with DO and pH, and positively with TSS, with the latter showing a positive correlation with BOD5. The results implied that water currents play a major role in the distribution of dissolved substances and the suspension of sediments. Water quality of the studied segments of Mananga River progressively decreased downstream and was more pronounced during the dry periods. Results also indicated that the river was receiving loads of organic matter from natural and anthropogenic sources.   Keywords - ecology, Mananga River, water quality, flow velocity, Cebu City, Philippines
Diversity and Local Status of Earthworms in the Mossy and Montane Forests of Mt. Hilong-hilong Range, Agusan del Norte, Philippines
Authors: MOHAGAN ALMA B. , MURRO MARY ALONA L. , IBAŃEZ JAYSON
Published: December 2014

Earthworms play an important role in the ecosystem as keystone species on soilformation. They loosen and aerate the soil as they tunnel the ground affecting thehydrology cycle. Earthworms in their natural habitats improve soil structure, fertility,and the rate that organic matter gets broken down. Yet, they are less known inthe Philippines. Here, inventory of earthworms in the mossy and montane forests of Mt. Hilong-hilong, Diwata Range, Agusan del Norte was conducted in 15 daysto provide information on species composition and richness using digging, handsorting and counting methods. Twenty six species were identified and six were undetermined.Twenty species were disconcordant in the mossy and 17 species in themontane forest. Species diversity was higher in the mossy forest H’ = 2.788 comparedwith montane forest H’ = 2.674. Similarity of species composition showedlow Si=25.33% between the mossy and montane forests which implies that mossyand montane forests are two unique habitats for earthworms in Mt. Hilong-hilong.It is recommended that cast formation and biology of these earthworms be studiedas future source of vermicast organic fertilizer production rather than using exoticstocks.
Involving the Local Communities in Developing Communal Forest Management Plans in Benguet Province, Luzon, Philippines
Authors: BALANGCOD TEODORA D. , BALANGCOD SEVERINO M.
Published: December 2014

In the Cordillera region, Luzon, Philippines, indigenous communities, suchas the Ifugao and Bontoc tribes have maintained community-owned forests,called the tayan and pinugo respectively, since time immemorial. These tribesrecognize that forests are the main source of their basic of needs such as food,shelter and clothing. Conversely, the local communities recognize the importanceof forests in providing irrigation for their payew or rice fields. To protect theirforests, there are unwritten customary laws and policies that serve as guide forthe local community. In Benguet, one of the six provinces of the CordilleraRegion, unfortunately, no similar community-owned forests were established bythe local communities hence between the 1910 to 1940s, it is the governmentwho declared 76 communal forests in Benguet province. However, since thedeclaration to date, these communal forests are not relatively protected becauseof the lack of implementing policies. Currently, one of the identified strategiesto preserve the remaining forests in Benguet is to involve the community in the validation and re-delineation communal forests through a series of communityconsultation, field work and management planning. This paper demonstrates howthe involvement of the local communities or stakeholders is being considered inthe management of the communal forests.Keywords: Forestry, Bontoc tribe, communal forest, Ifugao, pinugo, tayan, BenguetProvince, Philippines
Floristic Composition and Stand Structure of “Muyong” Systems in Banaue, Ifugao, Philippines
Authors: MAGCALE-MACANDOG DAMASA B. , BRAGAIS MILBEN A. , MOJICA LESTER P. , TINGSON KESHIA N. , LIQUIGAN MA. BERNICE CARMELA B.
Published: December 2014

Vegetation analysis of “muyong” was done to determine the species composition and diversity of tree species in Barangays (Brgy.) Amganad and Poitan. Trees growing within the established plots (10 m x 10 m) were identifiedand described. Tree diameter at breast height (DBH), merchantable height, totalheight, and diameter of the crown were measured. Brgy. Amganad has flat tosteep slopes and elevations ranging from 1120 to 1240 m above sea level (masl),with the “muyong” located at 1240 masl. On the other hand, Brgy. Poitan hasflat to steep configuration and elevations ranging from 990 to 1200 masl, withthe “muyong” found at 1200 masl. Vegetation was comprised of 67 speciesbelonging to 22 families. The tree species common in the dominant layers offorest stands in both barangays (local communities) were pine (Pinus kesiya),tabangawon/tabangawen (Weinmannia luzoniensis) and palayon (Lithocarpussubmonticolus). Height of dominant trees in Brgy. Amganad ranged from 14to 20 m while that in Brgy. Poitan ranged from 17 to 30 m. “Muyong” forest inBrgy. Poitan showed higher diversity compared with the “muyong” forest in Brgy.Amganad. However, the latter had higher species evenness value. In general,species diversity in the two barangays was not very dissimilar.Keywords: Biodiversity, indigenous tree species, muyong forest, descriptive design, tropical forest, Philippines
The Ifugao Rice Terraces: A Socio-Cultural and Global Perspective in Heritage Conservation
Authors: Mahiwo Sylvano D.
Published: December 2014

The paper discusses the sociocultural and global perspective in heritageconservation of the Ifugao Rice Terraces. It discusses the physical environmentand the spiritual and/or non-physical dimensions, the amphitheater sanctuaryof human-demigods-nature rendezvous, the socio-cultural transitions, gaps in traditional-modern living, the opportunities and challenges for globalization, and situating the IRT in the meta-action state cooperation dynamics.Keywords: Ecology, Ifugao Rice Terraces, heritage conservation, globalization, descriptive,Philippines
Physio-biochemical Fingerprints of the Angat River: An Environmental Investigation for Sustainable Program Development
Authors: CRUZ REYNALDO C. , NUQUI ALVIN V. , GAITE MARIBEL R. , MILAGROSO RONALDO D.
Published: December 2014

River systems throughout history have been the life source and support of allknown human civilizations. From being a constant food source and a vital link to the propagation of economic trails, river systems have gone beyond what isexpected of them. Such intricate connection that bonds rivers and human beings isneither without limit nor inevitable danger. The study assessed the environmentalcondition of selected sections of the Angat River located in Calumpit, Plaridel,Pulilan, Hagonoy and Paombong. Descriptive evaluation was primarily utilizedin determining the chemical, physical, and biological properties of the AngatRiver. The findings revealed that the: 1) Calumpit-Plaridel-Pulilan-HagonoyPaombongsections werewithin the standardpH parameter but werebiologicallypollutedas shownbyits high BiologicalOxygen Demand(BOD); 2) CalumpitPlaridel-PulilansectionshaveachancetorecoveronitsownbecauseofahighDissolvedOxygen (DO) content while the downstreamsections of HagonoyPaombongmay haveless chance to recoverdue to lowDO content; 3) riversectionswerepolluted with oil, grease,and TotalSuspendedSolids(TSS);and4)Calumpit-Plaridel-Pulilansections wereteeming with E.Coli microorganismcomparedwith the Hagonoy-Paombongsections which werefreeof E-Coli.Keywords: Environmental science, physio-biochemical fingerprints, environmentalinvestigation, program development, descriptive design, Philippines
Sphincter-Saving Resection of Rectal Hemangioma Based on Doppler Transrectal Ultrasonography Findings: Report of a Case
Authors: Fujikawa Hiroyuki , Araki Toshimitsu , Hashimoto Kiyoshi , Okita Yoshiki , Tanaka Koji , Hiro Junichiro , Inoue Yasuhiro , Mohri Yasuhiko , Uchida Keiichi , Kusunoki Masato
Published: December 2014

A 52-year-old woman was diagnosed with rectal hemangioma that had resulted in chronic bleeding. Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome was diagnosed by clinical examination. She was referred 30 years later because of progressive anemia. Colonoscopy revealed multiple bluish, polypoid nodules with severe vascular congestion and varicosis that had circumferentially spread along the wall from the dentate line to the rectosigmoid lesion. Selective abdominal angiography indicated that the hemangioma fed from the sigmoid artery and superior rectal artery. Doppler transrectal ultrasonography showed heterogeneous lesions with hypoechoic areas mostly in the submucosal layer, partly forming the mosaic pattern of the color flow signal in the intersphincteric layer on the oral side from the dentate line to 1 cm. Anterior resection and coloanal anastomosis with covering ileostomy was performed. Using a transanal approach, mucosectomy and intersphincteric resection were performed based on the Doppler transrectal ultrasonography results. There were no intraoperative complications, and her anemia resolved postoperatively.
Are Fibrinogen and Complete Blood Count Parameters Predictive in Incarcerated Abdominal Hernia Repair?
Authors: Kahramanca Sahin , Kaya Oskay , Ozgehan Gulay , Guzel Hakan , Azili Cem , Gokce Emre , Kucukpinar Tevfik , Kulacoglu Hakan
Published: December 2014

Therapeutic delays in cases of external incarcerated hernias typically result in increasing morbidity, mortality, and health expenditures. We investigated the diagnostic role of blood fibrinogen level, white blood count (WBC), mean platelet volume (MPV), and platelet distribution width (PDW) in patients with incarcerated hernia. Two groups, each containing 100 patients, were studied. Group A underwent elective, and group B underwent incarcerated and urgent external hernia repair. We observed high fibrinogen and WBC levels but low MPV and PDW values for patients in group B. Contrary to our expectations, we found lower MPV and PDW values in the complicated group than in the elective group. The morbidity rate and cost burden were higher in group B, and the results were statistically significant. Early operation should be recommended for patients with incarcerated external hernias if their fibrinogen and WBC levels are high.
The Outcome of Laparoscopic Surgery With and Without Short Gastric Vessel Division for Achalasia
Authors: Akutsu Yasunori , Hanari Naoyuki , Kono Tsuguaki , Uesato Masaya , Hoshino Isamu , Murakami Kentaro , Natsume Toshiyuki , Isozaki Yuka , Akanuma Naoki , Toyozumi Takeshi , Suito Hiroshi , Matsubara Hisahiro
Published: December 2014

Short gastric vessel division (SGVD) has been performed as a part of fundoplication for achalasia. However, whether or not SGVD is necessary is still unknown. Forty-six patients with achalasia who underwent a laparoscopic surgery with or without SGVD were analyzed. A questionnaire was administered to assess the postoperative improvement. Regarding improvement of dysphagia and postoperative reflux, there were no significant differences between SGVD (+) group and SGVD (−) group (P = 0.588 and P = 0.686, respectively). Nineteen patients (95%) in the SGVD (+) group and 24 (92%) in the SGVD (−) group answered that the surgery was satisfactory (P = 0.756). In the SGVD (+) group, the pre- and postsurgical body weight increase was +7.3%. In the SGVD (−) group, it was 8.2%. There was no significant difference of body weight increase between the 2 groups (P = 0.354). SGVD is not always required in laparoscopic surgery for achalasia.
Trauma Admission CT as a Road Map for IVC Filters
Authors: McKenney Kyle , Boneva Dessilava , Deeter Matthew , Barquist Erik , Ang Darwin , Kaye Marc
Published: December 2014

The objective of this study was to determine if admission abdominal/pelvic CT on trauma patients can be used as a novel method to evaluate the inferior vena cava (IVC) anatomy and facilitate potential IVC filter placement. Consecutive trauma admission CT's were reviewed. The potential landing zone for filters was determined by the IVC mid portion between the renal and iliac veins. The IVC landmarks were described anatomically using the thoracic and lumbar vertebral bodies as reference points. The IVC diameter and anatomic anomalies which would affect filter placement were also evaluated from the CT. The records of 610 Trauma patients were reviewed. There were 518 (84.9%) that had an admission CT, forming the basis of the study. The CT for 500 of 518 (96.5%) was of sufficient quality to accurately evaluate the IVC. The third lumbar location of the IVC was a safe landing zone in 476 of 500 (95.2%). Anatomic anomalies were present in 47 of 500 (9.4%). We had the following three conclusions. The admission CT in over 96% of trauma patients can be used to determine the IVC filter landing zone. The third lumbar region of the IVC was a safe landing zone in over 95%. Anatomical anomalies affecting IVC filter placement were revealed in 9.4%.
Role of the Enteric Nervous System in the Elongated Sigmoid Colon of Patients With Sigmoid Volvulus
Authors: Tomita Ryouichi , Sugitou Kiminobu , Sakurai Kenichi , Fujisaki Shigeru , Ikeda Taro , Koshinaga Tsugumichi
Published: December 2014

To clarify the physiologic function of the enteric nervous system (ENS) in the elongated sigmoid colon (ESC) of patients with sigmoid volvulus (SV), we examined the enteric nerve responses in lesional and normal longitudinal muscle strips (LMS) derived from patients with ESC and patients who underwent colon resection for colonic cancers. Thirty preparations of LMS were taken from the lesional sigmoid colons of 10 ESC patients with SV (8 men and 2 women, aged 53 to 80 years, mean 66.2 years). Forty preparations of LMS were taken from the normal sigmoid colons (NSC) of 20 patients with colonic cancer (12 men and 8 women, aged 55 to 76 years, mean 62.3 years). A mechanographic technique was used to evaluate in vitro muscle responses to electrical field stimulation (EFS) before and after treatment with various autonomic nerve blockers. Response to EFS before blockade of the adrenergic and cholinergic nerves was as follows: NSC and ESC significantly demonstrated relaxation reaction rather than contraction reaction (P = 0.0253, P < 0.0001, respectively). ESC showed relaxation reaction more than NSC (P = 0.1138). Response to EFS after blockade of the adrenergic and cholinergic nerves was as follows: NSC and ESC significantly demonstrated relaxation reaction via nonadrenergic noncholinergic (NANC) inhibitory nerves rather than contraction reaction via NANC excitatory nerves (P < 0.0001, P < 0.0001, respectively). ESC with SV significantly showed relaxation reaction more than NSC (P = 0.0092). An increased response of relaxation mediated NANC inhibitory nerves may play a role in impaired motility in the ESC of patients with SV.
A New Anterolateral Approach for Type C Fractures of the Distal Femur
Authors: Bin Zhang , Song Luo , Binghua Wu , Ping Qiu , Min Dai
Published: December 2014

To provide an anatomic basis for treating type C distal femoral fractures by a new anterolateral approach. Twenty surgical procedures were performed in 10 adult cadaveric specimens using a new anterolateral approach followed by dissection of all lower limbs. The main anterolateral muscles and ligaments were observed. Vessels and nerves related to the new anterolateral approach were also evaluated. Full exposure of the distal femur was achieved. The iliotibial band was protected, and damage to the quadriceps femoris was reduced. The distance between the common peroneal nerve and the new incision line at the level of the lateral epicondyle of the femur was (χ̄ ± s) 8.19 ± 0.79 cm (range, 7.48–9.57 cm). This new anterolateral approach to the distal femur is safe. Although it induces slight soft tissue damage, its exposure is excellent. Knee rehabilitation can be performed in the early postoperative period.
Predicting the Amount of Intraperitoneal Fluid Accumulation by Computed Tomography and Its Clinical Use in Patients With Perforated Peptic Ulcer
Authors: Ishiguro Toru , Kumagai Youichi , Baba Hiroyuki , Tajima Yusuke , Imaizumi Hideko , Suzuki Okihide , Kuwabara Koki , Matsuzawa Takeaki , Sobajima Jun , Fukuchi Minoru , Ishibashi Keiichiro , Mochiki Erito , Ishida Hideyuki
Published: December 2014

The correlation between the amount of peritoneal fluid and clinical parameters in patients with perforated peptic ulcer (PPU) has not been investigated. The authors' objective was to derive a reliable formula for determining the amount of peritoneal fluid in patients with PPU before surgery, and to evaluate the correlation between the estimated amount of peritoneal fluid and clinical parameters. We investigated 62 consecutive patients who underwent emergency surgery for PPU, and in whom prediction of the amount of accumulated intraperitoneal fluid was possible by computed tomography (CT) using the methods described by Oriuchi et al. We examined the relationship between the predicted amount of accumulated intraperitoneal fluid and that measured during surgery, and the relationship between the amount of fluid predicted preoperatively or measured during surgery and several clinical parameters. There was a significant positive correlation between the amount of fluid predicted by CT scan and that measured during surgery. When patients with gastric ulcer and duodenal ulcer were analyzed collectively, the predicted amount of intraperitoneal fluid and the amount measured during surgery were each associated with the period from onset until CT scan, perforation size, the Mannheim peritoneal index, and the severity of postoperative complications according to the Clavien–Dindo classification. Our present results suggest that the method of Oriuchi et al is useful for predicting the amount of accumulated intraperitoneal fluid in patients with PPU, and that this would be potentially helpful for treatment decision-making and estimating the severity of postoperative complications.
Prognostic Role of Gastrectomy in Patients With Gastric Cancer With Positive Peritoneal Cytology
Authors: Suzuki Okihide , Fukuchi Minoru , Mochiki Erito , Ishiguro Toru , Sobajima Jun , Onozawa Hisashi , Imaizumi Hideko , Kumagai Youichi , Baba Hiroyuki , Kumamoto Kensuke , Tsuji Yoshitaka , Ishibashi Keiichiro , Ishida Hideyuki
Published: December 2014

This retrospective study identified the optimal treatment strategy for patients with gastric cancer with positive peritoneal cytology. We analyzed clinicopathologic and survival data for 54 patients who had undergone gastrectomy and/or chemotherapy for treatment of gastric cancer with positive peritoneal cytology with (n = 40) or without (n = 14) metastatic disease. The median overall survival did not differ significantly between patients with gastric cancer with positive peritoneal cytology with and without metastatic disease (19 versus 13 months, respectively). Among 14 clinicopathologic variables, the lack of gastrectomy was the only significant independent unfavorable factor for survival (odds ratio, 1.64; 95% confidence interval, 1.04–2.57; P = 0.03). The median overall survival significantly differed among patients who had undergone gastrectomy plus chemotherapy, chemotherapy alone, and gastrectomy alone (25, 10, and 17 months, respectively; P < 0.01). Gastrectomy may be optimal for patients with (gastric cancer with positive peritoneal cytology), considering its favorable prognostic effect with respect to perioperative chemotherapy.
Characteristics of Patients With Spontaneous Splenic Rupture
Authors: Kocael Pinar Cigdem , Simsek Osman , Bilgin Ismail Ahmet , Tutar Onur , Saribeyoglu Kaya , Pekmezci Salih , Goksoy Ertugrul
Published: December 2014

In the present study, we aim to share our clinical experience in patients with spontaneous splenic rupture. Splenic rupture without trauma is known as spontaneous splenic rupture. The major problems in the management of spontaneous splenic rupture are missed or delayed diagnosis due to the lack of trauma in most cases. The records of all patients, who were admitted to Cerrahpaşa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University, were retrospectively reviewed from January 2000 to March 2013. Twelve patients were admitted to the emergency department and they were diagnosed with spontaneous splenic rupture. The mean age was 47.6 years. All patients had complaints of abdominal pain. The mean hematocrit value was 22%. Radiologic assessment revealed hemoperitoneum and/or subcapsular hematoma in 8 patients while splenic abscess was diagnosed in 2 patients. Eleven patients underwent splenectomy whereas one was managed conservatively. The most common cause of spontaneous splenic rupture was determined to be use of anticoagulants. Etiology was considered to be idiopathic in 1 patient. Two patients died in the postoperative period. Although rare, spontaneous splenic rupture must be suspected in emergency patients who have used especially anticoagulants and antiaggregants and who have had no recent history of trauma. One of the important causes of mortality is missed or delayed diagnosis.
Quantifying the relative contributions of substorm injections and chorus waves to the rapid outward extension of electron radiation belt
Authors: Su Zhenpeng , Zhu Hui , Xiao Fuliang , Zheng Huinan , Wang Yuming , Zong Q.‐G. , He Zhaoguo , Shen Chao , Zhang Min , Wang Shui , Kletzing C. A. , Kurth W. S. , Hospodarsky G. B. , Spence H. E. , Reeves G. D. , Funsten H. O. , Blake J. B. , Baker D. N.
Published: December 2014

We study the rapid outward extension of the electron radiation belt on a timescale of several hours during three events observed by Radiation Belt Storm Probes and Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms satellites and particularly quantify the contributions of substorm injections and chorus waves to the electron flux enhancement near the outer boundary of radiation belt. A comprehensive analysis including both observations and simulations is performed for the first event on 26 May 2013. The outer boundary of electron radiation belt moved from L = 5.5 to L > 6.07 over about 6 h, with up to 4 orders of magnitude enhancement in the 30 keV to 5 MeV electron fluxes at L = 6. The observations show that the substorm injection can cause 100% and 20% of the total subrelativistic (∼0.1 MeV) and relativistic (2–5 MeV) electron flux enhancements within a few minutes. The data‐driven simulation supports that the strong chorus waves can yield 60%–80% of the total energetic (0.2–5.0 MeV) electron flux enhancement within about 6 h. Some simple analyses are further given for the other two events on 2 and 29 June 2013, in which the contributions of substorm injections and chorus waves are shown to be qualitatively comparable to those for the first event. These results clearly illustrate the respective importance of substorm injections and chorus waves for the evolution of radiation belt electrons at different energies on a relatively short timescale.
Excess‐Of‐Loss Reinsurance
Authors: Splitt Andrea
Published: December 2014

Excess‐of‐loss covers belong to the category of nonproportional reinsurance treaties. They provide protection against individual loss events, exceeding a certain agreed amount or level, known as the
deductible
. The types of excess‐of‐loss cover are distinguished depending on the event definition applied: per‐risk excess‐of‐loss (per‐risk XL) and per‐event excess‐of‐loss (per‐event XL). Apart from a cover limit, that is, the maximum coverage per loss (event), further limitations of cover have to be defined to limit the overall loss burden from several losses occurring during the treaty period. These are referred to as
reinstatement
or the
annual aggregate limit
(AAL). The following peculiarity of long‐tail business is of particular importance to the design and pricing of nonproportional reinsurance arrangements: the increase in the money amount of the claim during the run‐off, known as
claims inflation
. Index clauses serve to ensure that this increase is not borne by the reinsurer alone, but is divided between the primary insurer and the reinsurer.
Reinsurance Forms
Authors: Goovaerts Marc J. , Vyncke David
Published: December 2014

Reinsurance plays an important role in reducing the risk in an insurance portfolio. In this article, we give an overview of the most relevant classical reinsurance concepts from a practical point of view.
Nonproportional Reinsurance
Authors: Splitt Andrea
Published: December 2014

Whereas in proportional reinsurance the claims and the premium are divided between the primary insurer and the reinsurer in the ratio of their shares in the coverage granted for the individual risks, nonproportional reinsurance focuses on claims. The reinsurer pays a claim if the loss incurred by the primary insurer exceeds a certain agreed amount or level, known as the deductible. The cover granted for a portfolio may be broken into several segments known as layers. The various types of nonproportional treaties differ according to whether the cover applies to individual or to aggregate claims and, in the latter case, depending on the rules used to arrive at the aggregate: excess‐of‐loss cover, aggregate excess‐of‐loss cover, and largest‐claims cover. The premium for a nonproportional treaty is calculated on the basis of risk theory.

Nonproportional reinsurance is an effective way of improving the ratio between the primary insurer's loss burden and premium income, as it passes specifically the peak losses on to the reinsurer.
Quota‐Share Reinsurance
Authors: Dickson David C.M.
Published: December 2014

Quota share reinsurance is described in this article.
Brain iron quantification by MRI in mitochondrial membrane protein‐associated neurodegeneration under iron‐chelating therapy
Authors: Löbel Ulrike , Schweser Ferdinand , Nickel Miriam , Deistung Andreas , Grosse Regine , Hagel Christian , Fiehler Jens , Schulz Angela , Hartig Monika , Reichenbach Jürgen R. , Kohlschütter Alfried , Sedlacik Jan
Published: December 2014

Therapeutic trials for Neurodegeneration with Brain Iron Accumulation have aimed at a reduction of cerebral iron content. A 13‐year‐old girl with mitochondrial membrane protein‐associated neurodegeneration treated with an iron‐chelating agent was monitored by R2 relaxometry, R2* relaxometry, and quantitative susceptibility mapping to estimate the brain iron content. The highly increased brain iron content slowly decreased in the substantia nigra but remained stable for globus pallidus. The estimated iron content was higher by R2* compared to R2 and quantitative susceptibility mapping, a finding not previously observed in the brain of healthy volunteers. A hypothesis explaining this discrepancy is offered.