bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biometric Identification – between Necessity and Innovation
Authors: Leba Monica , Ionica Andreea , Dobra Remus
Published: November 2015

The procedures for individual’s identification and medical information storage must ensure prompt, easy and safe identification of those who need emergency medical services. This requires a means to identify people based on a cheap technology, using easy matching analysis that does not require complex electronic devices. This is possible by means of fingerprint scanning. The paper proposes a method of storing relevant medical information based on biometric identification and for this reason we have developed an optimal system that allows the person identification based on fingerprint, the storage/access to information in a centralized database and the delivery of reports containing relevant personal and medical data. The developed biometric system provides a method for storing relevant primary health information based on biometric identification that lead to a prompt, easy and secure determination of the identity of people who require medical emergency intervention and their relevant medical information. This solution provides the possibility of taking the right decisions and immediate actions by authorized medical staff due to the access to personal information (name, ID, address, phone number, picture, contact person) and relevant medical information (blood type, RH, allergies, chronic diseases, organ donor option, resuscitation option) stored in a central database.
Keywords: Biometric Identification, medical information storage, database
Creative industries and their relation to translation/interpreting practice and to innovation
Authors: Vesela Dagmar , Klimova Katarina
Published: November 2015

As an economic sector, creative industries include all human activities associated with creativity, and they comprise a modern phenomenon which contributes significantly to the sustainment of economic growth and employment in a world afflicted by the financial and economic crisis. It is for these reasons that they have become a part of the EU agenda, where they are seen as connected to the cultural industries (CCI). Discussions focused on the creative economy are increasingly included in legislatorsâ€™ speeches and EU working and legislative materials filled with the new terminology of this field. The philosophy of creative industries and of the creative economy has its origins in the Anglophone world and this is also reflected in the key CCI terminology. As intercultural and interlingual mediators, interpreters and translators are confronted with this fact in their work and offer information to the intended recipient in the language of the target culture. In the EUâ€™s case, this means more than 20 working languages. In this paper, weÂ  focus on two of them â€“ Slovak, French â€“ and we will point out the specifics of translation of borrowed lexical units (Anglicisms). We also briefly describe the efforts to establish an innovative university programme focused on the multilingual processing of information.Â Keywords: Creative industries, Terminology, Multidisciplinary Education, Innovation.
Empirical study on the important function of mobile interactive model for MOOC
Authors: Jiang Xuefang , Zhuo Jun , Chen HanChen
Published: November 2015

This paper was studied on the important function of mobile interactive model for the Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) under Chinese context. We did empirical study to find out which function should be considered when designing a mobile MOOC platform. The author conducted a questionnaire in Distance Education School of Zhejiang University from the perspective of the main online learning users. We used the method of factor analysis by SPSS16.0 to analyze the research results. Through simplifying the interactive function of each module and analyzing the research results, the important function of mobile interactive model for MOOC composed of 5 modules and 7 factors were put forward. Our works have certain reference to the study of platform development and development for MOOC.Â Keywords: Mobile learning, Interactive mode, Factor analysis, MOOC.
Automated detection of optic disc in retinal fundus images using gabor filter kernels
Authors: Sen Baha , Akyol Kemal , Bayir Safak , Kaya Hilal
Published: November 2015

Identifying the position of the optic disc on the retinal fundus image is a technique that is often used in medical diagnosis, treatment and monitoring processes. Determination of the intensity of the bright colors that belongs to the optic disc on a normal retinal image by the help of image processing algorithms is a fairly easy process. However, determining the optic disc on a retinal image including the diabetic retinopathy disease is a more difficult process. The reason for this difficulty is the existence of many regions that have the same light intensity in different parts of the retina. In this study, a new method for supplying the automatic determination of the optic disc in a recursive manner is proposed. By the help of OpenCV library, automatic determination process of the optic disc on the retinal fundus images including the diabetic retinopathy disease, has been implemented. Circular regions with maximum brightness values in the retinal images that were normalized and passed through the denoising process were determined and these regions were analyzed if they are optic disc or not. This process basically consists of two steps: In the first step, the possible optic disc candidate regions were determined recursively and in the second step, by the help of Gabor filter kernels, these regions were analyzed and itâ€™s provided to decide if they are optic disc or not. This study is based on a dataset that has 89 images including diabetic retinopathy disease. Performance of this system is tested on these images and also on the images that the red, green, blue color channels and Contrast Limited Adaptive Histogram Equalization (CLAHE) retinas were obtained. Most accurate determination of the position of the optic disc is obtained with retinas, implemented process CLAHE, including the best success rate of 89.88%.Â Keywords: Optic disc, diabetic retinopathy, recursively, circular region, gabor filter kernels.
Designation of teacher candidatesâ€™ self-efficacy and success level in designing multimedia
Authors: Tugun Vasfi , Ozdamli Fezile
Published: November 2015

This research aims to determine the self-efficacy and success levels of teaching candidates on developing multimedia to the Docebo learning management system through integrating various online tools in developing multimedia courses and using this method in a project-based learning process. Second year students from the department of Computer Education and Educational Technology participated in this research. Random selection method was used in order to assign the students to the groups. Online (30 participants) and blended (30 participants) groups were constituted for this experimental study. Based on the pre-test results of the students participating in the study, it was investigated as to whether there was a difference between the groups. Since pre-test success scores of the students from the two groups would affect the results of the research, the difference between the two groups was examined by applying a t-test. There was no significant differenceÂ  in the pre-test scores of the teaching candidates in the group. Data from the research were collected with demographic information forms and 5-point Likert-type scale developed by authors.Â Keywords: multimedia designing, teacher candidates, internet based learning, learning management systems, online learning.Â Â
Flipped classroom: A review of recent literature
Authors: Uzunboylu Huseyin , Karagozlu Damla
Published: November 2015

The use of learning technologies, especially multimedia provide varied facilities for studentsâ€™ learning that are not possible with other media. Pedagogical literature has proved that individuals have different learning styles. Flipped classroom is a pedagogical approach which means that activities that have traditionally taken place inside the classroom take place outside the classroom and vice versa. The flipped classroom environment ensures that students become more active participants compared with in the traditional classroom. The purpose of this paper is to fulfil the needs regarding the review of recent literature on the use of the flipped classroom approach in education. The contribution of the flipped classroom to education is discussed in relation to the changes in students' and instructors' role. Subsequently, flipped classroom applications in various disciplines of education are illustrated. The recommendations made in the literature for design specifications that integrate flipped classrooms with technology are discussed. The paper concludes that a careful consideration of the warnings and recommendations made in the literature can help to produce effective flipped classroom environments and also this paper attempts to inform those who are thinking of using new technologies and approaches to deliver courses.Â Keywords: flipped classroom, inverted classroom, blended learning, active learning.
Table of Contents
Authors: Ozdamli Fezile
Published: November 2015

Table of Contents
ENHANCING ISLAMIC BUSINESS ETHIC OF INSURANCE UNDERSTANDING TOWARDSHIGH QUALITY FINANCIAL ADVICE AMONGSTTAKAFUL AGENTS
Authors: Azmin Adi Anuar , Bakar Azizi Abu , Ghani Abdullah Hj. Abd , Kadir Hanita
Published: November 2015

In modern business, one way to reduce risk of damage caused by accidents, illness, ordeath is through insurance. This concept does not necessarily contradict with Islamic principle as it also highlights the importance of high moral standing and high ethics level practiced by individuals. In particular, for insurance agents who have better positions in havingpersonal contacts with consumers, Cooper and Frank (1990) argue that the key ethical problem for agents was due to lack of knowledge or skills to competently perform one's duties as well as conflicts of interests between their duties andopportunities for personal financial gain. A Malaysianstudy by Mohamad and Mohd (2009) revealed that Takaful agents are the major source of information to create awareness. However, the basic concept of Takafulis still very ambiguous among Takaful agents, thus, it would influence the quality of advice delivered to customers.The role of Takaful agents is undeniable especially during the recent enforcement of Islamic Financial Services Act (IFSA 2013), introduced by Malaysian government. The enforcement whichrequires Islamic financial institutions to fully comply toShariaprinciples would mostly affectthe Takaful and conventional market.One of the Shariaprinciples is transparency. The new legislations thus enhance the level of confidence among stakeholders. The concept paper attempts to embark the role of Islamic business practice indetermining financial advice among Takaful agents. If they fully appreciate the Takafulconcept, the financial advice to customers could be improved which will gradually boost the Malaysian Takaful industry in the long run.
THE GENETIC POTENCY OF PLANTAIN AGUNG SEMERU VARIETY FROM LUMAJANG REGENCY EAST JAVA INDONESIA
Authors: Prahardini P.E.R.
Published: November 2015

Lumajang regency is one of the banana production centre in East Java having high- diversity of banana germ plasm.  There are 33 cultivars of  banana germ plasm in the regency,   consist of eaten ripe and plantain. One of uniqe plantain used as the symbol of Lumajang regency is plantain Agung Semeru variety, the local superior variety of this regency.  This variety can grow well at 450 – 650 m above sea level.  The uniqueness of banana Agung Semeru variety can be seen by the number of sucker per cluster (only   1 – 2  suckers per cluster), the size of the finger (33 – 36 cm long and  19 cm around) and the number of hand per bunch (only 1 – 2 hand per bunch).  Other characteristics of the variety are the thickness of fruit skin, the long period of fruit storage  (3 – 4 weeks after harvesting) and  the sweetness of fruit flesh. Even though the skin changes from yellow to black,  the flesh still  can be consumed, because it  doesn’t become soft. This variety also resistant to the  Sigatoka disease compared to other plantain cultivars.
AKTIVITAS KATEKIN TERHADAP STABILISASI PLAK (DALAM RANGKA MEMPERKECIL RESIKO SERANGAN JANTUNG)
Authors: Susanti Erna
Published: November 2015

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah membuktikan efek katekin teh hijau terhadap peng-hambatan peningkatan  ekspresi MMP9 pada tikus  wistar jantan dengan diet tinggi lemak. Metode yang digunakan pada penelitian ini terdiri ELISA untuk pengukuran ekspresi MMP9. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa katekin menghambat peningkatan  ekspresi MMP9   pada dosis 6 mg/ hari dan 24 mg / hari secara bermakna tetapi tidak untuk dosis 3mg / hari. Ini menunjukkan dosis   6mg/ hari dan 24 mg / hari mampu memperbaiki keru-sakan pensinyalan insulin pada jalur MAPK yang disebabkan oleh resistensi insulin. Hasil ini didasarkan pada kemampuan katekin sebagai antioksidan. Dari hasil penelitian dapat disimpulkan katekin menghambat peningkatan  ekspresi MMP9 pada dosis  6 mg/ hari dan 24 mg/hari dan dapat dikembangkan sebagai agen ateroprotektif   untuk stabilisasi plak sehingga dapat mencegah resiko serangan jantung.
Genus Cosmarium Corda from Thrissur Kole lands, Kerala
Authors: And R. Sreekumar Tessy Paul P
Published: November 2015

The present investigation deals with sixty eight taxa of Cosmarium Corda collected from the Kole lands of Thrissur, Kerala. The Kole lands constitute part of Vembanad-Kol, which is declared as one of the Ramsar sites of Kerala. All the taxa are systematically described with illustrations and their distribution in India. Of these, six taxa are first time reported from India and twenty nine taxa are new additions to the algal flora of Kerala. C. geminatum Lund. var. ornatum Behre, C. indentatum Gronbl. var. ellipticum Scott & Gronbl., C. pseudoconnatum Nordst. var. constictum West, C. quadrifarium Lund., C. quadriverrucosum West & West var. undulatum Scott & Prescott and C. subturgidum (Turn.) Schmidle are the new additions to the desmid flora of India.
Two case reports of lower limb posttraumatic angular deformities correction by dynamic hinged external fixation
Authors: Mitkovic Milan , Milenkovic Sasa , Micic Ivan , Kostic Igor , Stojiljkovic Predrag , Stamenic Sonja , El Gemizy , Mitkovic Milorad
Published: November 2015

The aim of this study was to present two patients with lower limb
posttraumatic angular deformity treated by dynamic hinged external fixation.
CD-V mode Mitkovic type external fixator had been used in both cases for
correction of these deformities. The method is based on hemicallotasis - bone
callus distraction after a partial transversal bone cut (hemocorticotomy).
The first patient had varus-recurvatum posttraumatic deformity of the ankle
joint. Operation time was 65 min and hospital stay was 9 days. Superficial
pin-track infection was resolved by the pin removal and by daily wound
toilette. The second patient had varus-antecurvatum malunion deformity of
the femoral diaphysis. Operation time was 50 min and hospital stay was 6
days. Mild knee contracture had been successfully treated by physical
therapy. Angular deformity correction had been performed by distraction (for
the first patient) and compression (for the second patient) in the fixator
frame. Hemicallotasis of femur or tibia using CD-V mode Mitkovic type
external fixator is a good alternative in the treatment of posttraumatic
lower limb angular deformities, providing minimal surgical trauma and maximal
use of the bone osteogenetic capacity. Gradual compression or distraction in
the fixator frame allows to perform accurate angular correction in both
coronal and sagital plane in one act.
Application of the Ilizarov apparatus in knee arthrodesis as a treatment option after infected total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Lalic Ivica , Harhaji Vladimir , Ninkovic Srdjan , Gvozdenovic Nemanja , Rasovic Predrag , Kecojevic Vaso , Stankovic Milan , Gojkovic Zoran , Vickovic Sanja , Petrovic Ivan
Published: November 2015

A chronic periprosthetic infection with attendant failure of the knee
extensor mechanism is one of the most disastrous outcome following total knee
arthroplasty and knee arthrodesis may be the last possible option treatment
with the exception lover limb amputated. The aim of this study is to
represent the results to achieve knee arhrodesis in patients with chronically
septic total knee arhroplasty. In our retrospective study we reviewed the
clinical record of 27 patients who were treated with Ilizarov circular
external fixator for this condition. Male to female ratio was 13:14. Main age
of the patients was 62,3 years. We used Cierny-Mader classification for the
clinical and pathoanatomical assessment. For the assessment of the bone
defect we used Engh classification. Complete union we had in 22(81,4%)
patients. Mean time for healing was 5,7 months, range (3-15). Mean residual
limb shortness was 4,7 cm and mean follow-up was 21 months. We also had a
five nonunion (18,6%) complications: three with septic intrarticular
nonunion, two had intolerance to the Ilizarov apparatus, so we removed
earlier. The Ilizarov circular external fixator provides us a high rate of
bone healing and low risk of septic dissemination in patients with infected
total knee arthroplasty (TKA).
Diode laser cyclophotocoagulation in refractory glaucoma
Authors: Bjelovic Nevena , Sencanic Ivan
Published: November 2015

Introduction: Transscleral diode laser cyclophotoco-agulation is new
cyclodestructive procedure for the treatment of refractory, advanced
glaucoma. Comparing to other cyclophotocoagulation it is more safe and
selective. Aim of the study: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of
transscleral diode laser cyclophotocoagulation in treatment of refractory
glaucoma. Material: A retrospective cohort study included 35 patients (36
eyes) with refractory glaucoma treated in Centre for Sight "Oftalmika", form
March 2008 to February 2012. All patients were treated by transscleral diode
laser cyclophotocoagulation. The mean age was 68.8 ? 16.8 years. Most
prevalent type was the neovascular glaucoma (23 ili 65.7%). The treatment
consisted of 16-20 applications of 1.5-2.0 W energy applied for 1.5-2.0
seconds. Results: The average IOP reduction was 33.4mmHg or 63,1%. The best
treatment result was achieved in the neovascular glaucoma, where IOP
reduction 6 months after the procedure was 71,2 %. The poorest results were
obtained in congenital glaucoma (28,5%). Prior ciclodestructive procedures
and/or filtration glaucoma procedures did not influence laser treatment
results. In only 5,7% patients repeated procedures were indicated. Overall
complication rates was 22,8%, and the most prevalent complications were
hyphema and reversible keratopathy (8,6% eyes). Postoperative hypothonia had
one patient. Number of antiglaucoma medications, 6 months after the
treatment, was reduced by 1,1 (45,7%). Medication reduction was most
prevalent in the case of seconday glaucoma 1,4 (52,6%), and the least
prevalent in congenital glaucoma 0,5 (14,3%). Only one patient had occasional
pain after the procedure. Conclusion: Transscleral diode laser
cyclophotoco-agulation is safe and effective procedure in the treatment of
refractory glaucoma. The best treatment result was achieved in the
neovascular glaucoma, and the poorest in congenital glaucoma. Effect of the
procedure on pain relif is unequivocal.
When it is oportune to avoid cesarean myomectomy? An analysis of possible factors influencing duration of treatment in the intensive care unit
Authors: Sparic Radmila , Stamenkovic Jelena , Nejkovic Lazar , Tinelli Andrea
Published: November 2015

Background: Cesarean myomectomy (CM) is a controversial issue, even
relatively contraindicated in obstetric practice. Recent reports showed that
CM is not associated with increased morbidity, but those are lacking the data
about risks of intensive care unit (ICU) treatment. Aim: The authors
evaluated the factors affecting the duration of ICU treatment in patients
after CM. Material and Methods: The study included 57 women who underwent CM
and were postoperatively admitted and treated in ICU. Correlation analysis
was used to estimate the effect of various parameters on the duration of ICU
treatment. Results: There was a highly significant correlation between
duration of ICU treatment and number of postoperative transfusions (p=0.001),
duration of surgery (p=0.007), intraoprative hemorrhage (p=0.008) and myoma
diameter (p=0.009). Duration of ICU treatment was also correlated with
gestational age, hypertensive syndrome in pregnancy, preoperative hematocrit
and hemoglobin values, number of intraoperative transfusions, postoperative
hemorrhage and repeated myomectomy. Conclusions: In our report, longer ICU
tretment was required in cases of perioperative hemorrhage, prolonged
surgeries and those requiring perioperative transfusion. Patients who have
had previous myomectomy, with lower preoperative hemoglobine and hematocrit
vaues and bigger myomas are at risk of prolonged ICU treatment.
Opportunities for Regenerative Rehabilitation and Advanced Technologies in Physical Therapy: Perspective From Academia
Authors: Norland Ryan , Muchnick Matthew , Harmon Zachary , Chin Tiffany , Kakar Rumit Singh
Published: November 2015

As rehabilitation specialists, physical therapists must continue to stay current with advances in technologies to provide appropriate rehabilitation protocols, improve patient outcomes, and be the preferred clinician of choice. To accomplish this vision, the physical therapy profession must begin to develop a culture of lifelong learning at the early stages of education and clinical training in order to embrace cutting-edge advancements such as stem cell therapies, tissue engineering, and robotics, to name a few. The purposes of this article are: (1) to provide a current perspective on faculty and graduate student awareness of regenerative rehabilitation concepts and (2) to advocate for increased integration of these emerging technologies within the doctor of physical therapy (DPT) curriculum. An online survey was designed to gauge awareness of principles in regenerative rehabilitation and to determine whether the topic was included and assessed in doctoral curricula. The survey yielded 1,006 responses from 82 DPT programs nationwide and indicated a disconnect in familiarity with the term “regenerative rehabilitation” and awareness of the inclusion of this material in the curriculum. To resolve this disconnect, the framework of the curriculum can be used to integrate new material via guest lecturers, interdisciplinary partnerships, and research opportunities. Successfully mentoring a generation of clinicians and rehabilitation scientists who incorporate new medical knowledge and technology into their own clinical and research practice depends greatly on sharing the responsibility among graduate students, professors, the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), and DPT programs. Creating an interdisciplinary culture and integrating regenerative medicine and rehabilitation concepts into the curriculum will cultivate individuals who will be advocates for interprofessional behaviors and will ensure that the profession meets the goals stated in APTA Vision 2020.
Symptomatic large or giant capillary telangiectasias: management and outcome in 5 cases
Authors: Yu Tao , Sun Xingwen , You Yan , Chen Jie , Wang Jun-mei , Wang Shuo , Lin Ning , Liang Buqing , Zhao Jizong
Published: November 2015

Brain capillary telangiectasias (BCTs) are usually small and benign with a predilection in the pons and basal ganglion. Reports of large and symptomatic BCTs are rare. Large BCTs have a much higher risk of causing uncontrolled bleeding and severe neurological defects, and they can be fatal if left untreated. Therefore, large BCTs should be managed with special caution. Because of the lack of reports, diagnosis of large BCTs has been difficult. Strategies of management are undefined for large or giant BCTs.

The current study presents 5 cases of giant and large BCTs. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the largest series of this disease ever reported. Radiological findings, histopathological characteristics, clinical presentations, and surgical management were analyzed in 5 symptomatic, unusually large BCTs (mean diameter 5.06 cm, range 1.8–8 cm).

Four patients presented with focal or generalized seizures, and 1 patient presented with transient vision loss attributed to the lesions. Gross-total resection of the lesion was achieved in all patients. After surgery, the 4 patients with seizures were symptom free for follow-up periods varying from more than 1 to 5 years with no additional neurological deficits.

The unique location, radiological characteristics, and clinical course suggest that giant BCTs could be a different entity from small BCTs. Surgery might be a good option for treatment of patients with intractable neurological symptoms, especially in those with surgically accessible locations. Complete removal would be anticipated to provide relief of the symptoms without causing new neurological deficits.
Association of apolipoprotein E gene polymorphism with small-vessel lesions and stroke type in moyamoya disease: a preliminary study
Authors: Jang Dong-Kyu , Huh Pil Woo , Lee Kwan-Sung
Published: November 2015

OBJECT

The present study was conducted to investigate whether microbleeds or microinfarcts are associated with apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene polymorphisms in patients with moyamoya disease (MMD), and if so, whetherAPOE gene polymorphisms are also associated with stroke type in patients with MMD.

METHODS

This cross-sectional, multicenter study included 86 consecutive patients with MMD who underwent T2*-weighted gradient echo or susceptibility-weighted MR imaging and 83 healthy control volunteers. Baseline clinical and radiological characteristics were recorded at diagnosis, and inter- and intragroup differences in the APOE genotypes were assessed. Multivariate binary logistic regression models were used to determine the association factors for small-vessel lesions (SVLs) and hemorrhagic presentation in patients with MMD.

RESULTS

There was no difference in APOE gene polymorphism and the incidence of SVLs between patients with MMD and healthy controls (p > 0.05). In the MMD group, 7 (8.1%) patients had microbleeds and 32 (37.2%) patients had microinfarcts. Microbleeds were more frequently identified in patients with hemorrhagic-type than in nonhemorrhagictype MMD (p = 0.003). APOE genotypes differed according to the presence of microbleeds (p = 0.024). APOE ε2 or ε4 carriers also experienced microbleeds more frequently than APOE ε3/ε3 carriers (p = 0.013). In the multivariate regression analysis in patients with MMD, microbleeds were significantly related to APOE ε2 or ε4 carrier status (OR 7.86; 95% CI1.20–51.62; p = 0.032) and cerebral aneurysm (OR 17.31; 95% CI 2.09–143.57; p = 0.008). Microinfarcts were independently associated with hypertension (OR 3.01; 95% CI 1.05–7.86; p = 0.007). Hemorrhagic presentation was markedly associated with microbleeds (OR 10.63; 95% CI 1.11–102.0; p = 0.041).

CONCLUSIONS

These preliminary results did not show a difference in APOE gene polymorphisms between patients with MMD and healthy persons. However, they imply that APOE gene polymorphisms may play certain roles in the presence of microbleeds but not microinfarcts in patients with MMD. A further confirmatory study is necessary to elucidate the effect of APOE gene polymorphisms and SVLs on the future incidence of stroke in patients with MMD.
Increasing numbers of nonaneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage in the last 15 years: antithrombotic medication as reason and prognostic factor?
Authors: Konczalla Juergen , Kashefiolasl Sepide , Brawanski Nina , Senft Christian , Seifert Volker , Platz Johannes
Published: November 2015

OBJECT

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is usually caused by a ruptured intracranial aneurysm, but in some patients no source of hemorrhage can be detected. More recent data showed increasing numbers of cases of spontaneous nonaneurysmal SAH (NASAH). The aim of this study was to analyze factors, especially the use of antithrombotic medications such as systemic anticoagulation or antiplatelet agents (aCPs), influencing the increasing numbers of cases of NASAH and the clinical outcome.

METHODS

Between 1999 and 2013, 214 patients who were admitted to the authors’ institution suffered from NASAH, 14% of all patients with SAH. Outcome was assessed according to the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at 6 months. Risk factors were identified based on the outcome.

RESULTS

The number of patients with NASAH increased significantly in the last 15 years of the study period. There was a statistically significant increase in the rate of nonperimesencephalic (NPM)-SAH occurrence and aCP use, while the proportion of elderly patients remained stable. Favorable outcome (mRS 0–2) was achieved in 85% of cases, but patients treated with aCPs had a significantly higher risk for an unfavorable outcome. Further analysis showed that elderly patients, and especially the subgroup with a Fisher Grade 3 bleeding pattern, had a high risk for an unfavorable outcome, whereas the subgroup of NPM-SAH without a Fisher Grade 3 bleeding pattern had a favorable outcome, similar to perimesencephalic (PM)-SAH.

CONCLUSIONS

Over the years, a significant increase in the number of patients with NASAH has been observed. Also, the rate of aCP use has increased significantly. Risk factors for an unfavorable outcome were age > 65 years, Fisher Grade 3 bleeding pattern, and aCP use. Both “PM-SAH” and “NPM-SAH without a Fisher Grade 3 bleeding pattern” had excellent outcomes. Patients with NASAH and a Fisher Grade 3 bleeding pattern had a significantly higher risk for an unfavorable outcome and death. Therefore, for further investigations, NPM-SAH should be stratified into patients with or without a Fisher Grade 3 bleeding pattern. Also, cases of spontaneous SAH should be stratified into NASAH and aneurysmal SAH.
Orbit-associated tumors: navigation and control of resection using intraoperative computed tomography
Authors: Terpolilli Nicole A. , Rachinger Walter , Kunz Mathias , Thon Niklas , Flatz Wilhelm H. , Tonn Jörg-Christian , Schichor Christian
Published: November 2015

OBJECT

Treatment of skull base lesions is complex and usually requires a multidisciplinary approach. In meningioma, which is the most common tumor entity in this region, resection is considered to be the most important therapeutic step to avoid tumor recurrence. However, resection of skull base lesions with orbital or optic nerve involvement poses a challenge due to their anatomical structure and their proximity to eloquent areas. Therefore the main goal of surgery should be to achieve the maximum extent of resection while preserving neurological function. In the postoperative course, medical and radiotherapeutic strategies may then be successfully used to treat possible tumor residues. Methods to safely improve the extent of resection in skull base lesions therefore are desirable. The current study reports the authors’ experience with the use of intraoperative CT (iCT) combined with neuronavigation with regard to feasibility and possible benefits of the method.

METHODS

Those patients with tumorous lesions in relationship to the orbit, sphenoid wing, or cavernous sinus who were surgically treated between October 2008 and December 2013 using iCT-based neuronavigation and in whom an intraoperative scan was obtained for control of resection were included. In all cases a second iCT scan was performed under sterile conditions after completion of navigation-guided microsurgical tumor resection. The surgical strategy was adapted accordingly; if necessary, resection was continued.

RESULTS

Twenty-three patients (19 with WHO Grade I meningioma and 4 with other lesions) were included. The most common clinical symptoms were loss of visual acuity and exophthalmus. Intraoperative control of resection by iCT was successfully obtained in all cases. Intraoperative imaging changed the surgical approach in more than half (52.2%) of these patients, either because iCT demonstrated unexpected residual tumor masses or because the second scan revealed additional tumor tissue that was not detected in the first scan due to overlay by osseous tumor parts; in these cases resection was continued. In the remaining cases resection was concluded as planned because iCT verified the surgeon’s microscopic estimation of tumor resection status. Postoperative visual outcome was favorable in more than 80% of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Intraoperative CT allows control of resection in case of uncertainty and can help to improve the extent of maximal safe resection, especially in case of osseous tumor parts and masses within the orbit.
Role of pelvic translation and lower-extremity compensation to maintain gravity line position in spinal deformity
Authors: Ferrero Emmanuelle , Liabaud Barthelemy , Challier Vincent , Lafage Renaud , Diebo Bassel G. , Vira Shaleen , Liu Shian , Vital Jean Marc , Ilharreborde Brice , Protopsaltis Themistocles S. , Errico Thomas J. , Schwab Frank J. , Lafage Virginie
Published: November 2015

OBJECT

Previous forceplate studies analyzing the impact of sagittal-plane spinal deformity on pelvic parameters have demonstrated the compensatory mechanisms of pelvis translation in addition to rotation. However, the mechanisms recruited for this pelvic rotation were not assessed. This study aims to analyze the relationship between spinopelvic and lower-extremity parameters and clarify the role of pelvic translation.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study of patients with spinal deformity and full-body EOS images. Patients with only stenosis or low-back pain were excluded. Patients were grouped according to T-1 spinopelvic inclination (T1SPi): sagittal forward (forward, > 0.5°), neutral (−6.3° to 0.5°), or backward (< −6.3°). Pelvic translation was quantified by pelvic shift (sagittal offset between the posterosuperior corner of the sacrum and anterior cortex of the distal tibia), hip extension was measured using the sacrofemoral angle (SFA; the angle formed by the middle of the sacral endplate and the bicoxofemoral axis and the line between the bicoxofemoral axis and the femoral axis), and chin-brow vertical angle (CBVA). Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to compare the parameters and correlation with the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI).

RESULTS

In total, 336 patients (71% female; mean age 57 years; mean body mass index 27 kg/m2) had mean T1SPi values of −8.8°, −3.5°, and 5.9° in the backward, neutral, and forward groups, respectively. There were significant differences in the lower-extremity and spinopelvic parameters between T1SPi groups. The backward group had a normal lumbar lordosis (LL), negative SVA and pelvic shift, and the largest hip extension. Forward patients had a small LL and an increased SVA, with a large pelvic shift creating compensatory knee flexion. Significant correlations existed between lower-limb parameter and pelvic shift, pelvic tilt, T-1 pelvic angle, T1SPi, and sagittal vertical axis (0.3 < r < 0.8; p < 0.001). ODI was significantly correlated with knee flexion and pelvic shift.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study to describe full-body alignment in a large population of patients with spinal pathologies. Furthermore, patients categorized based on T1SPi were found to have significant differences in the pelvic shift and lower-limb compensatory mechanisms. Correlations between lower-limb angles, pelvic shift, and ODI were identified. These differences in compensatory mechanisms should be considered when evaluating and planning surgical intervention for adult patients with spinal deformity.
Surgical management of intracranial capillary hemangiomas in children: report of 2 cases
Authors: Grabb Paul A.
Published: November 2015

Two cases of intracranial capillary hemangiomas (ICHs) occurring in children are presented to highlight the surgical challenges encountered with these extremely rare lesions. The author describes their clinical presentation, preoperative imaging features, intraoperative findings, and operative management. The pertinent literature is reviewed. Recommendations for preoperative planning and intraoperative management are made based on the author’s experience and the literature for when ICH is considered in the differential diagnosis and encountered intraoperatively.
Response times of ice-sheet surface heights to changes in the rate of Antarctic firn compaction caused by accumulation and temperature variations
Authors: Li Jun , Zwally H. Jay
Published: November 2015

Variations in accumulation rate As(t) and temperature Ts(t) at the surface of firn cause changes in the rate of firn compaction (FC) and surface height H(t) that do not involve changes in mass, and therefore need to be accounted for in deriving mass changes from measured H(t). As the effects of changes in As(t) and Ts(t) propagate into the firn, the FC rate is affected with a highly variable and complex response time. The H(t) during measurement periods depend on the history of As(t) and Ts(t) prior to the measurements. Consequently, knowledge of firn response times to climate perturbations is important to estimate the required length of the time series of As(t) and Ts(t) used in FC models. We use our numerical FC model, which is time-dependent on both temperature and accumulation rate, to examine the response times of both H(t) and the rates of change dH(t)/dt to variations in As(t) and Ts(t) using sample perturbations and climate data for selected sites in Antarctica. Our results show that the response times for dH(t)/dt, which are of particular interest, are much shorter than the responses of H(t). Typical response times of dH(t)/dt are from several years to <20 years. The response times are faster in warmer and higher-accumulation areas such as Byrd Station, West Antarctica (4 years), and slower in colder and lower-accumulation areas such as Vostok, East Antarctica (18 years). The response times to temperature are much faster (0.9 year at Byrd and 2.2 years at Vostok), but the corresponding height changes persist much longer. The associated variations in firn density are significantly preserved in the density–depth profiles. For typical fluctuations of surface weather, the Ts(t) from satellite observations since 1982 and As(t) from meteorological data since 1979 are essentially of sufficient length to correct for FC height changes for measurements beginning in 1992.
Clay mineral precipitation and low silica in glacier meltwaters explored through reaction-path modelling
Authors: Crompton Jeff W. , Flowers Gwenn E. , Kirste Dirk , Hagedorn Birgit , Sharp Martin J.
Published: November 2015

The subglacial chemical weathering environment is largely controlled by low temperatures and the presence of freshly comminuted minerals with a high surface area. These characteristics are believed to promote dissolution processes that give rise to low silica and high Ca2+fluxes emanating from glacierized basins. We test an alternative hypothesis, that mineral precipitation reactions in the subglacial environment play an equally important role in controlling the water chemistry in glacierized basins. We analyze borehole and proglacial water chemistry from a subarctic polythermal glacier, complemented by mineral XRD analysis of suspended sediment, till and bedrock samples. In conjunction with a thermodynamic analysis of the water and mineral chemistry, we use reaction-path modelling to study the chemical enrichment of water through the glacier system. We find that the high pH of the subglacial environment is conducive to secondary mineral precipitation, and that it is not possible to balance the water chemistry using dissolution reactions alone. We show that low silica can be explained by standard weathering reactions without having to invoke mineral-leaching reactions. Our results suggest that subglacial weathering intensity may be significantly underestimated if the production of secondary minerals is not considered.
Introduction: Still French?
Authors: Hargreaves Alec G.
Published: November 2015

In a provocative 1985 cover story featuring the face of Marianne obscured by an Islamic veil, Le Figaro magazine asked: ‘Serons-nous encore français dans 30 ans?’ With those thirty years now spanned, where does France stand in relation to the fears, challenges and opportunities associated with changing perceptions of ethnic and cultural diversity? Where do the most significant challenges to ‘Frenchness’ now lie? In Islamism? In the disadvantaged multi-ethnic banlieues? In European integration? In American hegemony? Is ‘Frenchness’ itself, championed by political elites under the banner of ‘l'exception culturelle’, an outmoded concept, destined to wither in the face of transnational forces? In addressing these questions, contributors to this special issue of Nottingham French Studies suggest that while French political and intellectual elites have generally been reluctant to embrace change, the participation of immigrant minorities in the life of the nation has been accepted more readily in fields of popular culture such as cinema and sport.
The Emergence of a Black France, 1985–2015: History, Race and Identity
Authors: Murphy David
Published: November 2015

The notion of a ‘France arabe’ has long had political and cultural currency – and was clearly at the heart of Le Figaro magazine's alarmist front cover back in 1985 – but that of ‘la France noire’ is still relatively new. The article explores why ‘Black France’ has become a common popular and critical term over the past decade. In addition, it examines some of the main arguments that have come to underpin discussion of ‘black’ questions in France, exploring the parameters of the ‘black debate’ and the ways it which has been intertwined with the wider ‘postcolonial debate’. Finally, the article examines some key figures such as Lilian Thuram and Christiane Taubira who might be seen to represent different facets of this emerging ‘France noire’.
How French is ‘French’ Sport?
Authors: Dine Philip
Published: November 2015

This article explores how sports in France have responded to the challenges of globalization, and also to the opportunities of an increasingly multicultural society. Two case studies are offered in which a distinctive national model may be seen to have been exposed to powerful transnational forces between 1985 and 2015, a period which also corresponds to sport's digital age. The sports primarily targeted are football and athletics, the most visibly international of modern games, as highlighted by their quadrennial showcases: the World Cup and the Olympic Games. The resulting case studies are intended to suggest some of the ways in which the state, the media and the relevant federations have responded to the multiple challenges of the corporate-financed and electronically mediated ‘global sporting system’. Featured athletes include Zinedine Zidane, Lilian Thuram, Marie-José Pérec and Mahiedine Mekhissi-Benabbad.
Spatial pattern of structural ageing in eastern Croatia: evolution and explanations
Authors: Jukic Marijan , Khan Hafiz T. A.
Published: November 2015

This article aims to examine the ageing situation and social policy issues in the Osijek-Baranja County of eastern Croatia. Using historical evidence from census data, research suggests that the evolution of the ageing pattern has been mainly determined by such factors as development of the transport system, changes in political-territorial organisation, supply of jobs in the cities, deagrarianisation and a domestic war in the 1990s. The increased importance of urban centres, through planned industrialisation and administrative centralisation, has accelerated and intensified rural-tourban migration. Consequently, the spatial pattern of structural ageing has been substantially affected. A significant variation was found in urban and rural areas and also within sub-regional units. The findings suggest that the evolution of spatial disparities in the ageing pattern is because of unplanned migration; spatial differences in the level of socio-economic development; the influence of tradition, such as higher fertility rates historically in some areas; and suburbanisation, notably around the city of Osijek. The article concludes that ageing is affecting the country’s economic growth and the formal and informal social support systems, including the provision of resources for older citizens in the endangered areas.
Association between Self-Rated Health and the Ethnic Composition of the Residential Environment of Six Ethnic Groups in Amsterdam
Authors: Veldhuizen Eleonore , Musterd Sako , Dijkshoorn Henriëtte , Kunst Anton
Published: November 2015

Background: Studies on the association between health and neighborhood ethnic composition yielded inconsistent results, possibly due to methodological limitations. We assessed these associations at different spatial scales and for different measures of ethnic composition. Methods: We obtained health survey data of 4673 respondents of Dutch, Surinamese, Moroccan, Turkish other non-Western and other Western origin. Neighborhood ethnic composition was measured for buffers varying from 50–1000 m. Associations with self-rated health were measured using logistic multilevel regression analysis, with control for socioeconomic position at the individual and area level. Results: Overall ethnic heterogeneity was not related to health for any ethnic group. The presence of other Surinamese was associated with poor self-rated health among Surinamese respondents. The presence of Moroccans or Turks was associated with poor health among some groups. The presence of Dutch was associated with better self-rated health among Surinamese and Turks. In most cases, these associations were stronger at lower spatial scales. We found no other associations. Conclusions: In Amsterdam, self-rated health was not associated with ethnic heterogeneity in general, but may be related to the presence of specific ethnic groups. Policies regarding social and ethnic mixing should pay special attention to the co-residence of groups with problematic interrelations.
ThWRKY4 from Tamarix hispida Can Form Homodimers and Heterodimers and Is Involved in Abiotic Stress Responses
Authors: Wang Liuqiang , Zheng Lei , Zhang Chunrui , Wang Yucheng , Lu Mengzhu , Gao Caiqiu
Published: November 2015

WRKY proteins are a large family of transcription factors that are involved in diverse developmental processes and abiotic stress responses in plants. However, our knowledge of the regulatory mechanisms of WRKYs participation in protein–protein interactions is still fragmentary, and such protein–protein interactions are fundamental in understanding biological networks and the functions of proteins. In this study, we report that a WRKY protein from Tamarix hispida, ThWRKY4, can form both homodimers and heterodimers with ThWRKY2 and ThWRKY3. In addition, ThWRKY2 and ThWRKY3 can both bind to W-box motif with binding affinities similar to that of ThWRKY4. Further, the expression patterns of ThWRKY2 and ThWRKY3 are similar to that of ThWRKY4 when plants are exposed to abscisic acid (ABA). Subcellular localization shows that these three ThWRKY proteins are nuclear proteins. Taken together, these results demonstrate that ThWRKY4 is a dimeric protein that can form functional homodimers or heterodimers that are involved in abiotic stress responses.