bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Volume changes in Vitreloy bulk metallic glass during room temperature high-pressure torsion
Authors: Kovács Zsolt , Schafler Erhard , Révész Ádám
Published: November 2008

Commercial Zr44Ti11Cu10Ni10Be25bulk metallic glass (Vitreloy 1b) disk was subjected to extreme plastic deformation by high-pressure torsion at room temperature. Two-dimensional mapping by high-intensity synchrotron x-ray diffraction in the plane of the shear deformation reveals no evidence of nanocrystallization; however, average effective volume changes as a function of the deformation can be evaluated.
Rare earth element and yttrium geochemistry applied to the genetic study of cryolite ore at the Pitinga Mine (Amazon, Brazil)
Authors: Minuzzi Orlando R.R. , Bastos Neto Artur C. , Formoso Milton L.L. , Andrade Sandra , Janasi Valcir A. , Flores Juan A.
Published: November 2008

This work aims at the geochemical study of Pitinga cryolite mineralization through REE and Y analyses in disseminated and massive cryolite ore deposits, as well as in fluorite occurrences. REE signatures in fluorite and cryolite are similar to those in the Madeira albite granite. The highest ΣREE values are found in magmatic cryolite (677 to 1345 ppm); ΣREE is lower in massive cryolite. Average values for the different cryolite types are 10.3 ppm, 6.66 ppm and 8.38 ppm (for nucleated, caramel and white types, respectively). Disseminated fluorite displays higher ΣREE values (1708 and 1526ppm) than fluorite in late veins(34.81ppm). Yttrium concentration is higher in disseminated fluorite and in magmatic cryolite. The evolution of several parameters (REEtotal, LREE/HREE, Y) was followed throughout successive stages of evolution in albite granites and associated mineralization. At the end of the process, late cryolite was formed with low REEtotal content. REE data indicate that the MCD was formed by, and the disseminated ore enriched by (additional formation of hydrothermal disseminated cryolite), hydrothermal fluids, residual from albite granite. The presence of tetrads is poorly defined, although nucleated, caramel and white cryolite types show evidence for tetrad effect.
Família e doença mental: a difícil convivência com a diferença
Authors: Colvero Luciana de Almeida , Ide Cilene Aparecida Costardi , Rolim Marli Alves
Published: November 2008

Este estudo partiu de reflexões acerca dos movimentos da reforma da assistência psiquiátrica e o processo de desinstitucionalização. Teve como objetivo identificar as representações sociais construídas por familiares acerca do fenômeno saúde-doença mental. Adotou-se o referencial das representações sociais na perspectiva dos pressupostos de Moscovici. Foram entrevistados oito familiares de portadores de transtorno mental. Identificou-se que os familiares explicitam sua não aceitação daquele que se mostra diferente, como núcleo de suas representações sociais. Apontamos para a importância dos profissionais de saúde mental considerarem, em suas intervenções, o saber produzido pelos familiares.
A versão simplificada do Therapeutic Intervention Scoring System e seu valor prognóstico
Authors: Silva Maria Cláudia Moreira da , Sousa Regina Márcia Cardoso de
Published: November 2008

O estudo avalia a capacidade do Therapeutic Intervention Scoring System (TISS-28) de discriminar pacientes internados em UTI, prováveis de morrer daqueles possíveis de sobreviver e estabelecer a pontuação limiar para alta probabilidade de morte. Os resultados, obtidos da amostra de 200 pacientes internados em 14 UTIs do Município de São Paulo, mostraram que o TISS-28 apresentou associação com mortalidade (p=0,0001). O ponto de corte estabelecido foi 21. Encontrou-se que 80,88% dos que morreram tinham pontuação do TISS-28 maior ou igual, e 68,18% dos sobreviventes tinham pontuação menor que 21. Além disso, quanto ao valor prognóstico do TISS-28, constatou-se acurácia de 0,72.
Adesão ao tratamento da dor crônica e o locus de controle da saúde
Authors: Kurita Geana Paula , Pimenta Cibele Andrucioli de Mattos
Published: November 2008

Objetivou-se avaliar a adesão dos doentes com dor crônica não oncológica ao tratamento e identificar relações entre a crença de controle da saúde e a adesão. Trinta doentes foram avaliados durante seis meses, em cinco entrevistas. A adesão foi classificada em plena, parcial e não adesão, e foi calculado o Índice de Acerto de Ingestão Medicamentosa (IAIM). A crença de controle da saúde foi avaliada por meio da Escala de Locus de Controle da Saúde. Observaram-se altos índices de adesão parcial e não adesão ao tratamento (40,0% a 56,7%), médias do IAIM entre 57,2% e 69,5%, e que doentes com crenças de maior "internalidade" aderiram menos ao tratamento.
Ações de enfermagem identificadas no Projeto CIPESC(a) e utilizadas no cuidado de pacientes com AIDS
Authors: Santos Sônia Maria Josino dos , Nóbrega Maria Miriam Lima da
Published: November 2008

Estudo do tipo exploratório-descritivo, desenvolvido numa abordagem quantitativa com os objetivos de identificar, nos resultados do Projeto de Classificação Internacional das Práticas de Enfermagem em Saúde Coletiva - CIPESC, as ações de enfermagem que podem ser utilizadas por enfermeiros, no cuidado dos pacientes com Aids e confirmar essa utilização, na prática profissional de enfermeiros. Das 2.754 ações de enfermagem identificadas no Projeto CIPESC, 157 foram apontadas como possíveis de serem utilizadas no cuidado de pacientes com Aids. Os resultados do estudo apontam para a utilização de todas as 157 ações de enfermagem, as quais estão, em sua maioria, nos conceitos: Atender (86), Informar (25), Gerenciar (19), Observar (17) e Desempenhar (10).
Educação de Enfermagem sem distâncias: uma ruptura espaço/temporal
Authors: Dias Denise Costa , Cassiani Silvia Helena de Bortoli
Published: November 2008

Este artigo apresenta concepções pedagógicas e aspectos sobre a legislação da educação a distância, assim como tece considerações sobre tecnologias educacionais e relata a experiência de utilização de ambiente on-line de aprendizagem na graduação de Enfermagem. Foi oferecido um curso via Internet, no ambiente WebCT. O tema do curso foi Terapia Intravenosa (TIV). Inscreveram-se 49 alunos, destes, 25 concluíram 50% das atividades previstas. A utilização da Internet pode motivar o aprendiz e facilitar a inclusão digital do aluno de Enfermagem. Assim, a Internet pode ser vista como uma ferramenta auxiliar útil que possibilita uma ruptura espaço/temporal, em que o tempo e o espaço são estabelecidos de acordo com as necessidades, os interesses e a disponibilidade dos discentes.
O uso pedagógico das Tecnologias da Informação e da Comunicação na formação dos futuros docentes no Quebec
Authors: Karsenti Thierry , Villeneuve Stéphane , Raby Carole
Published: November 2008

Será que os docentes que estão sendo formados no Quebec estão prontos para integrar as tecnologias da informação e da comunicação (TIC) num contexto escolar? Para responder a essa pergunta, uma pesquisa foi realizada junto a 2.065 futuros professores, 410 professores associados e 90 supervisores de estágio, oriundos das nove universidades francófonas que oferecem um programa de formação inicial de professores no Quebec (Canadá). Os resultados mostram que os futuros professores têm acesso aos equipamentos necessários para se familiarizar com as TIC e dominam bem as ferramentas tecnológicas básicas. Nossos dados também revelam que as usam, regular e criticamente, para planejar, comunicar, buscar informações, preparar materiais pedagógicos, resolver problemas ou se aprimorar no plano profissional. Apesar desse retrato muito promissor, nossos resultados também indicam que uma proporção muito pequena de futuros professores usa essas tecnologias em sala de aula. Nossa conclusão apresenta algumas recomendações.
Marcuse, revolucionário
Authors: Konder Leandro
Published: November 2008

A reconstituição de alguns dos momentos mais significativos da trajetória de Herbert Marcuse permite que sejam recordados determinados elementos da contribuição que o filósofo deixou para a reflexão contemporânea a respeito das relações entre a psicanálise e o marxismo, bem como para a revalorização do prazer no pensamento socialista, para o resgate da utopia, para um reexame das diferenças entre reforma e revolução, bem como para o aprofundamento da crítica aos meios de manipulação fio comportamento humano pela indústria cultural.
A relação mãe/criança com deficiência: sentimentos e experiências
Authors: Falkenbach Atos Prinz , Drexsler Greice , Werler Verônica
Published: November 2008

O presente estudo investiga os sentimentos e as experiências de pais e mães de crianças com deficiência. Surge das motivações em compreender o cotidiano dos pais e mães de crianças com deficiência integrante do Projeto de Psicomotricidade Relacional da UNIVATES. De corte qualitativo, trata-se de um estudo etnográfico. Os instrumentos utilizados para a coleta de informações são: entrevistas, diários de campo e análise documental. A temática aborda os seguintes aspectos teóricos: a relação primária, a relação do profissional da saúde e a relação social da criança com necessidades especiais. O processo de coleta de informações permitiu organizar as seguintes categorias: a) sentimentos manifestos no nascimento de um filho com deficiência; b) comportamento dos profissionais da área da saúde no ato de dar a notícia aos pais; c) necessidades dos pais e mães na relação com os demais familiares e a sociedade e sentimentos e e) necessidades envolvidas na perspectiva de educar uma criança com deficiência. Conclui-se que os pais e mães das crianças com necessidades especiais reavaliam seus conceitos iniciais, aprendem a valorizar as potencialidades da criança e requisitam contínuos reforços em suas estimas pessoais que os auxiliam no processo educativo de seus filhos.
A qualidade de vida de jovens portadores de espinha bífida brasileiros e norte-americanos
Authors: Soares Ana Helena Rotta , Moreira Martha Cristina Nunes , Monteiro Lúcia Maria Costa
Published: November 2008

A pesquisa tem como objetivo explorar a qualidade da vida de jovens portadores de espinha bífida em duas culturas, brasileira e norte-americana, norteada pelo conceito de qualidade de vida. O estudo, de caráter qualitativo, utilizou entrevistas semi-estruturadas e grupos focais em duas unidades de saúde especializadas no tratamento de jovens com espinha bífida, uma no Brasil e a segunda nos Estados Unidos. Os discursos dos jovens em questão refletem a necessidade de categorias mais englobantes que não remetam a uma pulverização da experiência de vida. Os resultados tornam evidente uma estrutura de desigualdade nas interações mistas e demonstram que o estigma se encontra presente em todas as dimensões da vida dos sujeitos, interferindo na inserção social, construção subjetiva, e auto-estima do jovem. Foram identificados dois campos de referência para a noção de qualidade de vida: (1) o micropolítico, que se refere aos valores, visões, crenças e expectativas sociais construídos a partir dos encontros face a face; e (2) o macropolítico, que diz respeito ao espaço público, ao âmbito da democracia dos direitos humanos.
Iniciação sexual de homens adolescentes
Authors: Gubert Daniela , Madureira Valéria Silvana Faganello
Published: November 2008

Trata-se de pesquisa quantitativa que teve como objetivo investigar a iniciação sexual de adolescentes do sexo masculino em Concórdia, Santa Catarina. Participaram da mesma 340 adolescentes do sexo masculino, com idades entre 14 e 19 anos, que freqüentavam o ensino médio em seis instituições de ensino do município de Concórdia, que aceitaram participar e que trouxeram o Termo de Consentimento Livre e Esclarecido assinado pelos pais ou responsáveis. Destes, 69,7% afirmaram ter relações sexuais, sendo que a média de idade da primeira relação foi de 14,4 anos, menor que a média nacional de 15 anos. A primeira relação sexual ocorreu com uma ficante para 45,1% e 64,2% afirmaram que o principal motivo para a mesma foi vontade/tesão. A maioria (74,2%) qualificou a experiência como boa ou muito boa. O uso da camisinha foi apontado como método utilizado na primeira relação sexual por 73,8% dos adolescentes e como método usado em todas as relações por 72,5%. Alguns adolescentes relataram não conversar sobre sexualidade, mas a maioria aponta os amigos como principal fonte de informações sobre sexo. Frente ao exposto, fica claro que apesar de terem sua primeira relação sexual cada vez mais precocemente, o diálogo sobre prevenção tem surtido efeito, o que é reforçado pelo uso expressivo do preservativo entre os adolescentes.
Repeated Reading of Poetry Can Enhance Reading Fluency
Authors: Faver Sherri
Published: November 2008

Using poetry to teach fluency through repeated reading is an effective way to improve students' reading fluency. Repeated reading of poetry is effective with students whose instructional reading level is between the first and third grades. Ten to 15 minutes of repeated reading per day over an extended length of time has proven successful for both fluent and nonfluent readers.

إن استخدام الشعر لتعليم المرونة بواسطة القراءة المتكررة هو طريقة فعالة لتحسين مرونة الطلبة القرائية. إذ قراءة الشعر المتكررة فعالة مع الطلبة ذوي مستوى القراءة التعليمي بين الصف الأول والثالث. وقد أثبت نجاح القراءة المتكررة المقامة يومياً بين عشر دقائق إلى ربع ساعة لمدة طويلة من الزمن لكلا القراء المهرة وغير المهرة.

通过重复朗读诗歌来训练学生朗读的流畅度，是改善学生朗读流畅度的一种有效的教学法。重复朗读诗歌这教学法，对训练小学一年级至三年级学生特别有效。长期每天使用十到十五分钟进行重复朗读诗歌，已被证明对流畅与非流畅读者均有改善朗读之成效。

Utiliser la poésie pour enseigner à lire couramment au moyen de lectures répétées est une façon efficace de développer la lecture courante des élèves. La lecture répétée de la poésie est efficace avec des élèves dont le niveau de lecture est entre la première et la troisième année. On a pu prouver que dix à 15 minutes de lecture répétée chaque jour pendant assez longtemps est fructueux aussi bien pour ceux qui lisent couramment que pour les autres.

Многократное прочитывание стихов – эффективный способ развития навыков беглого чтения. Такой подход уместен с младшими школьниками – с первого по третий класс. От десяти до пятнадцати минут повторного чтения в день в течение продолжительного периода времени оказали благотворное влияние на навыки чтения всех детей, как бегло читающих, как и испытывающих трудности в чтении.

El uso de la poesía para enseñar la fluidez por medio de la repetición de la lectura es una manera efectiva de mejorar la fluidez de la lectura de los estudiantes. La lectura repetida de la poesía es efectiva en estudiantes cuyo nivel de instrucción está entre el primer y el tercer grado. De diez a quince minutos de lectura repetida al día por un período largo de tiempo ha demostrado ser exitoso para ambos los lectores con fluidez y los que no tienen fluidez.
Anaerobic codigestion of the mechanically sorted organic fraction of a municipal solid waste with cattle manure in packed microcosms under batch conditions
Authors: Bertin L. , Todaro D. , Bettini C. , Fava F.
Published: November 2008

Packed microcosms, consisting of 0.6 L-flask filled with tire chips (TC, a non-cost-recyclable non-biodegradable material) or ceramic cubes, were employed in the wet batch mesophilic anaerobic codigestion of a mechanically sorted organic fraction of a municipal solid waste with cattle manure. Two different waste mixtures were digested within four successive batch experiments, performed by collecting the digested waste and by refilling each microcosm with the same experimental mixture. Methane production yields related to the first experiment were comparable to those of non-packed identically developed microcosms, while they significantly grew during all the following experiences. No CH4-production lag-phase was observed since the second batch experiment. Similar results were obtained for both packing materials: however, the highest methane yields were achieved within bioreactors packed with TC in the presence of a mixture in which the volatile suspended solids (VSS) provided by the municipal waste represented the 55% of the total ones. Under such condition, a methane yield corresponding to the biochemical methane potential (BMP) calculated through a 6-month experiment with non-packed microcosms (176 ml/gVS) was attained in about 1/4 of the time. Importantly, the BMP can significantly grow up as a consequence of the approach described in this study.
Ozone disinfection with the HiPOX™ reactor: streamlining an “old technology” for wastewater reuse
Authors: Ishida Cari , Salveson Andrew , Robinson Keel , Bowman Reid , Snyder Shane
Published: November 2008

Although ozone disinfection is a well established technology for drinking water treatment, ozone disinfection mechanisms in wastewater are not well understood such that, historically, ozone wastewater disinfection has not been a feasible technology to implement. The HiPOx™ system is an ozone-based pressurized in-vessel system that can be used either as an advanced oxidation reactor or as a highly efficient ozone dissolution system. The pilot-scale HiPOx™ system was temporarily installed at the Dublin San Ramon Services District (DSRSD) Wastewater Treatment Plant in Dublin, California. Detailed bioassay testing was conducted on the pilot reactor between October and December 2007. Tests on benchtop reactors were performed in June and August 2007. Pilot tests on the HiPOx™ reactor located at DSRSD showed that 6.5 log removal of MS2 coliphage was observed at conservative transferred ozone doses of 5 mg/L (contact time of 93 seconds) in microfiltered water, and 7 mg/L (contact time of 50 seconds) in media filtered water. In media filtered water, minimum CT values of 1.0 mg-min/L resulted in non detect total coliform.
THE RELATIONS BETWEEN EXPATRIATE MANAGEMENT AND THE MENTALITY AND ADJUSTMENT OF EXPATRIATES
Authors: Wang I-Ming
Published: November 2008

This article reports the results of a study of the mentality and adjustment of expatriates from Taiwan with job assignments in China. A total of 1000 questionnaires were sent out to the Taiwanese directors and staff in 600 Taiwanese businesses in Kun-Shan, China, with 788 valid responses
included for further analysis. Four relationships were examined in the study: the correlation between the mentality and adjustment of expatriates and expatriate management, that between government and expatriate management, that between government and the mentality and adjustment of expatriates,
and finally the effect of government on the correlation between the mentality and adjustment of expatriates and expatriate management. Findings are discussed and suggestions are offered.
SOCIAL VALUE ORIENTATION AND INFORMATION LEVEL IN SELLING PRICES
Authors: Lin Chien-Huang , Lin Hung-Ming , Hung Ai-Ling
Published: November 2008

The concept of social value orientation was used to investigate whether or not individual difference would influence selling price decisions in situations with different information levels. Results of the study indicated that individuals with different orientations reacted differently
to selling price under the condition of different information levels. In general, proselfs charged higher prices under the condition of asymmetric information than under the condition of symmetric information when they believed that the prospective buyer lacked information about market prices.
However, the selling price disparity between asymmetric and symmetric information conditions was diminished when the buyer was a friend. By contrast, prosocials were not influenced by the manipulation of the information level of the buyer and their relationship with the buyer.
INTERRELATIONS OF GENDER SCHEMAS IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS: ATTITUDES, PREFERENCES, AND SELF-PERCEPTIONS
Authors: Signorella Margaret L. , Frieze Irene Hanson
Published: November 2008

To test developmental aspects of gender schema theories, girls in grades 2 to 12 were given measures of gender role attitudes, self-perceptions on gender related traits, reported participation in gender related activities, preferred occupation, and adult family preferences. Both children's
and adolescents' results showed a multifactor structure. Children's results differed from adolescents' in that children had more measures showing significant age trends, with a general pattern of decreasing stereotyping with age. Children also had stronger associations among
diverse measures than did adolescents. Results were consistent with both multifactorial and cognitive-developmental approaches to the development of gender schemas, and provided limited support for adolescent gender intensification hypotheses.
OPINIONS OF MIDWIFERY STUDENTS ON ADOLESCENT SEXUALITY AND REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH IN TURKEY
Authors: Ege Emel , Akin Belgin , Altuntuğ Kamile
Published: November 2008

The purpose of this study was to evaluate how midwifery students feel about adolescent sexuality, the use of contraceptive methods, and abortion. A total of 55 students in the second year of a midwifery course were included in the sampling. Data were evaluated by percentage distribution
and McNamara's Test. An evaluation of the students' thoughts on sexuality showed that 87.3% believed a girl should be a virgin when she married, that 50.9% believed abortion was morally wrong and that 23.6% believed only married couples should be informed of
contraceptive methods. The study showed that students were influenced in their attitudes by social-value judgments about adolescent sexual and reproductive health.
DOC2B: A Novel Syntaxin-4 Binding Protein Mediating Insulin-Regulated GLUT4 Vesicle Fusion in Adipocytes
Authors: Fukuda Naofumi , Emoto Masahiro , Nakamori Yoshitaka , Taguchi Akihiko , Miyamoto Sachiko , Uraki Shinsuke , Oka Yoshitomo , Tanizawa Yukio
Published: November 2008

OBJECTIVE— Insulin stimulates glucose uptake in skeletal muscle and adipose tissues primarily by stimulating the translocation of vesicles containing a facilitative glucose transporter, GLUT4, from intracellular compartments to the plasma membrane. The formation of stable soluble N-ethyl-maleimide–sensitive fusion protein [NSF] attachment protein receptor (SNARE) complexes between vesicle-associated membrane protein-2 (VAMP-2) and syntaxin-4 initiates GLUT4 vesicle docking and fusion processes. Additional factors such as munc18c and tomosyn were reported to be negative regulators of the SNARE complex assembly involved in GLUT4 vesicle fusion. However, despite numerous investigations, the positive regulators have not been adequately clarified.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS— We determined the intracellular localization of DOC2b by confocal immunoflorescent microscopy in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Interaction between DOC2b and syntaxin-4 was assessed by the yeast two-hybrid screening system, immunoprecipitation, and in vitro glutathione S-transferase (GST) pull-down experiments. Cell surface externalization of GLUT4 and glucose uptake were measured in the cells expressing DOC2b constructs or silencing DOC2b.

RESULTS— Herein, we show that DOC2b, a SNARE-related protein containing double C2 domains but lacking a transmembrane region, is translocated to the plasma membrane upon insulin stimulation and directly associates with syntaxin-4 in an intracellular Ca2+-dependent manner. Furthermore, this process is essential for triggering GLUT4 vesicle fusion. Expression of DOC2b in cultured adipocytes enhanced, while expression of the Ca2+-interacting domain mutant DCO2b or knockdown of DOC2b inhibited, insulin-stimulated glucose uptake.

CONCLUSIONS— These findings indicate that DOC2b is a positive SNARE regulator for GLUT4 vesicle fusion and mediates insulin-stimulated glucose transport in adipocytes.
Fractal surface analysis of Zircaloy-4 SEM micrographs using the time-series method
Authors: Paun Viorel
Published: November 2008

The SEM microfractographies of Zircaloy-4 are studied by the time-series method. We first develop a computer application which associates a time series to each SEM micrograph. Furthermore, we will apply the phase space embedding technique to reconstruct the attractor and to compute the autocorrelation dimension. Using the fractal analysis technique, the SEM microfractographies of the fracture surface of the Zircaloy-4 samples have been analyzed.
Postoperative Pain Following Foot and Ankle Surgery: A Prospective Study
Authors: Chou Loretta B. , Wagner Dominic , Witten Daniela M. , Martinez-Diaz Gabriel J. , Brook Nancy S. , Toussaint Michele , Carroll Ian R.
Published: November 2008

Background: Orthopaedic procedures have been reported to have the highest incidence of pain compared to other types of operations. There are limited studies in the literature that investigate postoperative pain. Materials and Methods: A prospective study of 98 patients undergoing orthopedic foot and ankle operations was undertaken to evaluate their pain experience. A Short-Form McGill Pain Questionnaire (SF-MPQ) was administered preoperatively and postoperatively. Results: The results showed that patients who experienced pain before the operation anticipated feeling higher pain intensity immediately postoperatively. Patients, on average, experienced higher pain intensity 3 days after the operation than anticipated. The postoperative pain intensity at 3 days was the most severe, while postoperative pain intensity at 6 weeks was the least severe. Age, gender and preoperative diagnosis (acute versus chronic) did not have a significant effect on the severity of pain that patients experienced. Six weeks following the operation, the majority of patients felt no pain. In addition, the severity of preoperative pain was highly predictive of their anticipated postoperative pain and 6-week postoperative pain, and both preoperative pain and anticipated pain predict higher immediate postoperative pain. Conclusion: The intensity of patients' preoperative pain was predictive of the anticipated postoperative pain. Patients' preoperative pain and anticipated postoperative pain were independently predictive of the 3-day postoperative pain. The higher pain intensity a patient experienced preoperatively suggested that their postoperative pain severity would be greater. Therefore, surgeons should be aware of these findings when treating postoperative pain after orthopaedic foot and ankle operations.

Level of Evidence: II, Prospective Comparative Study
Efficacy of MRI Versus Arthroscopy for Evaluation of Sinus Tarsi Syndrome
Authors: Lee Keun-Bae , Bai Long-Bin , Park Jin-Gyoon , Song Eun-Kyoo , Lee Jae-Jun
Published: November 2008

Background: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been used to diagnose sinus tarsi syndrome (STS) because of its non-invasiveness and accuracy. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the diagnostic efficiency of MRI compared with subtalar arthroscopy for STS. Materials and Methods: Twenty-eight patients (30 feet) who had undergone both MRI and subtalar arthroscopy for STS were evaluated. MRI results were compared with arthroscopic findings, which were considered the standard. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values were calculated, and correlations between MRI and arthroscopic findings were investigated. Results: MRI was found to detect interosseous talocalcaneal ligament (ITCL) tears, cervical ligament (CL) tears, sinus tarsi fat alterations, and synovial thickening, with sensitivities, specificities, positive and negative predictive accuracies of: 44%, 60%, 85%, 18% (ITCL tears); 73%, 89%, 80%, 86% (CL tears); 71%, 92%, 93%, 71% (sinus tarsi fat alterations); and 86%, 87%, 67%, 95% (synovial thickening). Correlations between MRI and arthroscopic findings showed full agreement in 10%, partial agreement in 50%, and no agreement in 40%. Conclusion: MRI is useful for detecting CL tears, sinus tarsi fat alterations, and synovial thickening, but is inadequate for correctly detecting ITCL tears.

Level of Evidence: II, Prospective Comparative Study
Introduction: Surgery of the Central Skull Base
Authors: Dolenc Vinko V.
Published: November 2008

With his anatomical studies of the parasellar space, the so-called cavernous sinus (CS), Taptas opened Pandora's box more than 60 years ago. Parkinson continued the anatomical studies, and operated on vascular lesions in the CS with the help of extracorporeal circulation. The need for endovascular treatment of intracavernous internal carotid artery (ICA) aneurysms, as well as carotid–cavernous fistulas (CCFs), was obvious. Serbinenko started with the endovascular treatment of CCFs and ICA aneurysms using a balloon. At nearly the same time, Hakuba undertook surgical treatment of tumorous lesions in the region. Glascock studied the ICA in relation to the petrous bone, and with his studies of the ICA and this artery's relationship to the other structures, it became clear that further understanding of the pathological entities in the parasellar space hinged on additional microanatomical studies.
Endoscopic transnasal resection of anterior cranial fossa meningiomas
Authors: de Divitiis Enrico , Esposito Felice , Cappabianca Paolo , Cavallo Luigi M. , de Divitiis Oreste , Esposito Isabella
Published: November 2008

Object

The extended transnasal approach, a recent surgical advancements for the ventral skull base, allows excellent midline access to and visibility of the anterior cranial fossa, which was previously thought to be approachable only via a transcranial route. The extended transnasal approach allows early decompression of the optic canals, obviates the need for brain retraction, and reduces neurovascular manipulation.

Methods

Between 2004 and 2007, 11 consecutive patients underwent transnasal resection of anterior cranial fossa meningiomas—4 olfactory groove (OGM) and 7 tuberculum sellae (TSM) meningiomas. Age at surgery, sex, symptoms, and imaging studies were reviewed. Tumor size and tumor extension were estimated, and the anteroposterior, vertical, and horizontal diameters were measred on MR images. Medical records, surgical complications, and outcomes of the patients were collected.

Results

A gross-total removal of the lesion was achieved in 10 patients (91%), and in 1 patient with a TSM only a near-total (> 90%) resection was possible. Four patients with preoperative visual function defect had a complete recovery, whereas 3 patients experienced a transient worsening of vision, fully recovered within few days. In 3 patients (2 with TSMs and 1 with an OGM), a postoperative CSF leak occurred, requiring a endoscopic surgery for skull base defect repair. Another patient (a case involving a TSM) developed transient diabetes insipidus. The operative time ranged from 6 to 10 hours in the OGM group and from 4.5 to 9 hours in the TSM group. The mean duration of the hospital stay was 13.5 and 10 days in the OGM and TSM groups, respectively. Six patients (3 with OGMs and 3 with TSMs) required a blood transfusion. Surgery-related death occurred in 1 patient with TSM, in whom the tumor was successfully removed.

Conclusions

The technique offers a minimally invasive route to the midline anterior skull base, allowing the surgeon to avoid using brain retraction and reducing manipulation of the large vessels and optic apparatus; hastens postoperative recovery; and improves patient compliance. Further assessment and refinement are required, particularly because of the potential risk of CSF leakage. Other studies and longer follow-up periods are necessary to ascertain the benefits of the technique.
Early elective surgical exploration of spontaneous intracerebral hematomas of unknown origin
Authors: Elhammady Mohamed Samy A. , Baskaya Mustafa K. , Heros Roberto C.
Published: November 2008

Object

The management of non–life threatening spontaneous intraparenchymal hemorrhage with no obvious medical etiology in patients and the lack of findings on images has not been clearly defined. In general, the current practice is to treat these patients conservatively and repeat studies to rule out a treatable cause 6 weeks to 3 months later; more often than not these repeated studies fail to reveal any findings, and the patient is treated conservatively. For years, the senior author (R.C.H.) has treated these patients with early surgical exploration. This study was undertaken prospectively to ascertain the frequency of positive findings during surgical exploration.

Methods

Between 2000 and 2007, the authors prospectively collected data from 9 cases (4 cerebellar, 4 lobar, and 1 caudate head) of unexplained intraparenchymal hemorrhages. The patient age ranged from 18 to 45 years (mean 31.2 years). All patients were normotensive, had no underlying medical problems explaining such a hemorrhage, and failed to exhibit findings on cerebral angiograms. Magnetic resonance images with contrast showed no abnormal vasculature or enhancement. Eight patients underwent elective surgical exploration in the subacute stage, and urgent decompression of the clot was necessary in 1.

Results

In 7 (77.8%) of the 9 cases, histopathological examination revealed a cause for the hemorrhage (3 “cryptic” arteriovenous malformations, 3 cavernomas, and 1 neoplasm). A good outcome was achieved in all 8 patients who underwent elective surgery.

Conclusions

The authors recommend elective surgical exploration of intracerebral hematomas of unknown etiology provided that the hematoma is surgically accessible and the patient is relatively young and healthy. Early exploration and resection can provide a cure and eliminate the risk of rebleeding when a vascular lesion is found or guide further treatment in cases of tumor.
Endovascular treatment of intracranial microarteriovenous malformations
Authors: Andreou Alexander , Ioannidis Ioannis , Lalloo Shivendra , Nickolaos Nasis , Byrne James V.
Published: November 2008

Object

Microarteriovenous malformations (micro-AVMs) are an uncommon subgroup of brain AVMs defined by a nidus measuring < 1 cm in diameter. The clinical features, angiographic characteristics, and outcomes in patients with micro-AVMs who had been treated endovascularly after presenting with hemorrhage were reviewed to identify common features affecting prognosis.

Methods

Between 1997 and 2006, 25 patients (12 females and 13 males) with 26 micro-AVMs were treated. Twenty-four patients presented with intracerebral hematoma and 1 with subarachnoid hemorrhage only. All patients underwent CT on admission, diagnostic cerebral angiography, and 1 session of endovascular treatment during the acute phase.

Results

Procedure-related complications occurred in 3 patients (12%), which caused temporary hemiparesis in 1 (4%) and no clinical sequelae in 2 patients (8%). Complete nidus obliteration was achieved at the end of the embolization in 22 (84.6%) of 26 lesions. Two recurrences were evident on follow-up angiography 6 months postembolization, resulting in a complete obliteration rate of 77% (20 of 26 lesions) after a single treatment. Late angiography was performed in 12 patients, and no further recurrences were identified.

Conclusions

Immediate complete obliteration of a micro-AVM with a high permanent cure and low morbidity rates was accomplished using endovascular treatment. Early embolization after bleeding should be considered as an alternative to resection.
A new technique allowing prolonged temporary cerebral artery occlusion
Authors: Hauck Erik F. , Wei Jingna , Quast Michael J. , Nauta Haring J. W.
Published: November 2008

Object

Clipping of complex cerebral aneurysms often requires temporary vessel occlusion. The risk of stroke, however, increases exponentially with occlusion time. The authors hypothesized that prolonged temporary occlusion might be tolerated if the occluded vessels were perfused with cold physiological saline solution (CPSS). A low-flow perfusion rate would permit surgical manipulation of an aneurysm distal to the occlusion.

Methods

To test this hypothesis, the authors temporarily occluded the middle cerebral artery (MCA) with an endovascular catheter in 6 rats. Three animals, the treatment group, were perfused with 5-ml CPSS/hour through the occluding endovascular catheter into the MCA, and the other 3 served as an ischemic control group. In both groups, the catheter was removed after 90 minutes of occlusion. The brain temperature was monitored with a stereotactically placed probe in the caudate–putamen in 2 separate experimental groups (11 animals).

Results

Magnetic resonance imaging perfusion scanning during vessel occlusion confirmed similar reduction of cerebral blood flow during MCA occlusion in both the simple-occlusion and perfusion-occlusion groups. Magnetic resonance imaging diffusion scans performed 24 hours after temporary occlusion revealed infarcts in the ischemic control group of 138.3 ± 28.0 mm3 versus 9.9 ± 9.9 mm3 in the cold saline group (p < 0.005). A focal cooling effect during perfusion with CPSS was demonstrated (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Prolonged temporary cerebral vessel occlusion can be tolerated using superselective CPSS perfusion through an occluding endovascular catheter into the ischemic territory. This technique could possibly be applied in neurosurgery practice to the management of complex intracranial aneurysms.
Effect of electrical stimulation of the cervical spinal cord on blood flow following subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Lee Jin-Yul , Huang Dah-Luen , Keep Richard , Sagher Oren
Published: November 2008

Object

Cervical spinal cord stimulation (SCS) increases global cerebral blood flow (CBF) and ameliorates cerebral ischemia according to a number of experimental models as well as some anecdotal reports in humans. Nonetheless, such stimulation has not been systematically applied for use in cerebral vasospasm. In the present study the authors examined the effect of cervical SCS on cerebral vasoconstriction in a double-hemorrhage model in rats.

Methods

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) was induced with 2 blood injections through an indwelling catheter in the cisterna magna. Spinal cord stimulation was applied 90 minutes after induction of the second SAH (Day 0) or on Day 5 post-SAH. Measurements of the basilar artery (BA) diameter and cross-sectional area and regional CBF (using laser Doppler flowmetry and 14C-radiolabeled N-isopropyl-p-iodoamphetamine hydrochloride) were obtained and compared between SAH and sham-operated control rats that did not receive SCS.

Results

At Day 0 after SAH, there were slight nonsignificant decreases in BA diameter and cross-sectional area (89 ± 3% and 81 ± 4%, respectively, of that in controls) in no-SCS rats. At this time point, BA diameter and crosssectional area were slightly increased (116 ± 6% and 132 ± 9%, respectively, compared with controls, p < 0.001) in SCS-treated rats. On Day 5 after SAH, no-SCS rats had marked decreases in BA diameter and cross-sectional area (64 ± 3% and 39 ± 4%, respectively, compared with controls, p < 0.001) and corrugation of the vessel wall. These changes were reversed in rats that had received SCS (diameter, 110 ± 9% of controls; area, 106 ± 4% of controls; p < 0.001). Subarachnoid hemorrhage reduced CBF at Days 0 and 5 post-SAH, and SCS increased flows at both time points, particularly in regions supplied by the middle cerebral artery.

Conclusions

Data in this study showed that SCS can reverse BA constriction and improve global CBF in this SAH model. Spinal cord stimulation may represent a useful adjunct in the treatment of vasospasm.
Clinical and radiographic comparison of mini–open transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion with open transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion in 42 patients with long-term follow-up
Authors: Dhall Sanjay S. , Wang Michael Y. , Mummaneni Praveen V.
Published: November 2008

Object

As minimally invasive approaches gain popularity in spine surgery, clinical outcomes and effectiveness of mini–open transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) compared with traditional open TLIF have yet to be established. The authors retrospectively compared the outcomes of patients who underwent mini–open TLIF with those who underwent open TLIF.

Methods

Between 2003 and 2006, 42 patients underwent TLIF for degenerative disc disease or spondylolisthesis; 21 patients underwent mini–open TLIF and 21 patients underwent open TLIF. The mean age in each group was 53 years, and there was no statistically significant difference in age between the groups (p = 0.98). Data were collected perioperatively. In addition, complications, length of stay (LOS), fusion rate, and modified Prolo Scale (mPS) scores were recorded at routine intervals.

Results

No patient was lost to follow-up. The mean follow-up was 24 months for the mini-open group and 34 months for the open group. The mean estimated blood loss was 194 ml for the mini-open group and 505 ml for the open group (p < 0.01). The mean LOS was 3 days for the mini-open group and 5.5 days for the open group (p < 0.01). The mean mPS score improved from 11 to 19 in the mini-open group and from 10 to 18 in the open group; there was no statistically significant difference in mPS score improvement between the groups (p = 0.19). In the mini-open group there were 2 cases of transient L-5 sensory loss, 1 case of a misplaced screw that required revision, and 1 case of cage migration that required revision. In the open group there was 1 case of radiculitis as well as 1 case of a misplaced screw that required revision. One patient in the mini-open group developed a pseudarthrosis that required reoperation, and all patients in the open group exhibited fusion.

Conclusions

Mini–open TLIF is a viable alternative to traditional open TLIF with significantly reduced estimated blood loss and LOS. However, the authors found a higher incidence of hardware-associated complications with the mini–open TLIF.
Evaluation of factors associated with postoperative infection following sacral tumor resection
Authors: Sciubba Daniel M. , Nelson Clarke , Gok Beryl , McGirt Matthew J. , McLoughlin Gregory S. , Noggle Joseph C. , Wolinsky Jean Paul , Witham Timothy F. , Bydon Ali , Gokaslan Ziya L.
Published: November 2008

Object

Resection of sacral tumors has been shown to improve survival, since the oncological prognosis is commonly correlated with the extent of local tumor control. However, extensive soft-tissue resection in close proximity to the rectum may predispose patients to wound complications and infection. To identify potential risk factors, a review of clinical outcomes for sacral tumor resections over the past 5 years at a single institution was completed, paying special attention to procedure-related complications.

Methods

Between 2002 and 2007, 46 patients with sacral tumors were treated with surgery. Demographic data, details of surgery, type of tumor, and patient characteristics associated with surgical site infections (SSIs) were collected; these data included presence of the following variables: diabetes, obesity, smoking, steroid use, previous surgery, previous radiation, cerebrospinal fluid leak, number of spinal levels exposed, instrumentation, number of surgeons scrubbed in to the procedure, serum albumin level, and combined anterior-posterior approach. Logistic regression analysis was implemented to find an association of such variables with the presence of SSI.

Results

A total of 46 patients were treated for sacral tumor resections; 20 were male (43%) and 26 were female (57%), with an average age of 46 years (range 11–83 years). Histopathological findings included the following: chordoma in 19 (41%), ependymoma in 5 (11%), rectal adenocarcinoma in 5 (11%), giant cell tumor in 4 (9%), and other in 13 (28%). There were 18 cases of wound infection (39%), and 2 cases of repeat surgery for tumor recurrence (1 chordoma and 1 giant cell tumor). Factors associated with increased likelihood of infection included previous lumbosacral surgery (p = 0.0184; odds ratio [OR] 7.955) and number of surgeons scrubbed in to the operation (p = 0.0332; OR 4.018). Increasing age (p = 0.0864; OR 1.031), presence of complex soft-tissue reconstruction (p = 0.118; OR 3.789), and bowel and bladder dysfunction (p = 0.119; OR 2.667) demonstrated a trend toward increased risk of SSI.

Conclusions

Patients undergoing sacral tumor surgery may be at greater risk for developing wound complications due to the extensive soft-tissue resections often required, especially with the increased potential for contamination from the neighboring rectum. In this study, it appears that previous lumbosacral surgery, number of surgeons scrubbed in, patient age, bowel and bladder dysfunction, and complex tissue reconstruction may predict those patients more prone to developing postoperative SSIs.
Calibration laws based on multiple linear regression applied to matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry
Authors: Williams Jr. D. Keith , Chadwick M. Ashley , Williams Taufika Islam , Muddiman David C.
Published: November 2008

Operation of any mass spectrometer requires implementation of mass calibration laws to translate experimentally measured physical quantities into a m/z range. While internal calibration in Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT‐ICR‐MS) offers several attractive features, including exposure of calibrant and analyte ions to identical experimental conditions (e.g. space charge), external calibration affords simpler pulse sequences and higher throughput. The automatic gain control method used in hybrid linear trap quadrupole (LTQ) FT‐ICR‐MS to consistently obtain the same ion population is not readily amenable to matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) FT‐ICR‐MS, due to the heterogeneous nature and poor spot‐to‐spot reproducibility of MALDI. This can be compensated for by taking external calibration laws into account that consider magnetic and electric fields, as well as relative and total ion abundances. Herein, an evaluation of external mass calibration laws applied to MALDI‐FT‐ICR‐MS is performed to achieve higher mass measurement accuracy (MMA). Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Romantic and sexual activities, parent–adolescent stress, and depressive symptoms among early adolescent girls
Authors: Davila Joanne , Stroud Catherine B. , Starr Lisa R. , Miller Melissa Ramsay , Yoneda Athena , Hershenberg Rachel
Published: November 2008

Building on evidence that romantic experiences are associated with depressive symptoms in adolescence, we examined their bidirectional association, as well as the role of sexual activity and parent–adolescent stress in their association. Data were collected from 71 early adolescent girls (M age 13.45 years; SD = 0.68) and their primary caregiver initially and one year later. Results indicated that adolescents who engaged in more romantic activities experienced increases in depressive symptoms over time. Second, greater depressive symptoms predicted romantic involvement and sexual activities, including intercourse, one year later. Third, dysphoric adolescents who were experiencing higher parent–adolescent stress were the most likely to engage in subsequent sexual intercourse. Implications for understanding how the association between depressive symptoms and romantic and sexual experiences develops and the course of this association are discussed.