bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A broadband wide‐incident‐angle reflective polarization converter
Authors: Li Yan , Wu Thomas X. , Wu Shin‐Tson
Published: September 2009

Abstract— A high‐performance reflective polarization converter which could be used in a backlight recycling system for liquid‐crystal‐display (LCD) devices is proposed. The device consists of a twisted‐nematic (TN) liquid‐crystal film, a uniaxial A‐plate, and a reflector. The configuration parameters, such as thickness and orientation of the films, are optimized using a genetic algorithm. As a result, the design can convert light from TM to TE polarization (or TE to TM) at a maximum 99.7%, minimum 91.3%, and average 96.7% conversion efficiency for the entire visible spectrum and incident angle from 0 to 60°. Such a broadband reflective polarization converter is particularly useful for enhancing the light efficiency and reducing the power consumption of LCDs.
Thin flexible photosensitive cholesteric displays
Authors: Venkataraman Nithya , Magyar Greg , Lightfoot Mark , Montbach Erica , Khan Asad , Schneider Tod , Doane J. William , Green Lisa , Li Quan
Published: September 2009

Abstract— A novel optically addressable, flexible bistable cholesteric liquid‐crystal display (ChLCD) is presented. These displays utilizeazo‐binaphthalene photosensitive chiral dopants that undergo photo‐isomerization upon exposure to light. The isomerization results in a change in the pitch of the cholesteric liquid crystal (ChLC), which enables the creation of inherently high‐resolution light‐weight displays that are optically written. The displays can be photo‐addressed without patterned electrodes or complex addressing schemes. Capitalizing on the dynamic pitch and the bistability of photosensitive ChLCDs, the display is switched with a single pulse at a specific single voltage to drive the region of the display with a shorter pitch to the focal‐conic texture and the region of the display with a longer pitch to the planar texture. Once in the different textures, the display can hold an image indefinitely regardless of ambient lighting. As such, these displays are a natural fit for badges, shelf‐labels, and point‐of‐sale cards. In this paper, the photosensitive properties of an encapsulated display system in comparison to an unencapsulated display system is discussed. Properties such a photosensitivity, thermal relaxation, and electro‐optical response are studied and reported. In addition, a flexible optically addressable ChLCD is developed and demonstrated.
Combined Endovascular/Surgical Management of a Ruptured Para-Anastomotic Aneurysm of the Left Common Iliac Artery#
Authors: Maras Dimitrios , Papas Theofanis T , Gekas Christos D , Psathas Chrisovalantis , Kotsikoris Ioannis , Nikolaou Achilleas , Pavlidis Polyvios , Andrikopoulos Vassilios
Published: September 2009

A 75-year old man presented with signs and symptoms of acute abdomen and a clinical picture of hypovolemic shock. An emergency CT scan revealed a ruptured para-anastomotic left common iliac artery aneurysm. The patient had undergone an elective abdominal aortic aneurysm repair operation and placement of an aortoiliac bifurcated graft 10 years before. Para-anastomotic aneurysms had developed in all 3 (aortic and the 2 iliac) anastomosis. As the patient was highrisk, a combined endovascular/surgical approach was undertaken. The patient was discharged 4 days later.

This article discusses the applicability of endovascular procedures in emergency settings to high-risk patients.
Setting Reaction of Polyacid Modified Composite Resins or Compomers
Authors: Arrondo J.L.R , Collado M.I , I Soler , Triana R , Ellacuria J
Published: September 2009

The hardening of modified polyacid composite resins (compomers) and glass-ionomers have been studied using infrared spectroscopy. The acid-base reaction in Ketac-fil, a glass ionomer, was followed by the ratio between the COOH band located around 1715 cm-1 and that corresponding to COO- located around 1570 cm-1. The combination of infrared analysis and band narrowing treatments enable us to propose in the glass-ionomer two maturation steps. First, a very rapid equilibrium acid-base related, and second the cross-linking of polycarboxylate with the metal ions present in the cement. In compomers, a new reaction has been described involving polymerization induced by free radicals besides the two steps associated with the acid-base reaction. Using infrared spectroscopy and band narrowing techniques, it is shown that water is essential to complete the hardening process but no acid-base reaction is produced since the COO- band does not appear. The reaction associated with free radicals could be described as a polymerization of methacrylate monomers together with an aqueous dilution of the filling particles releasing different metal cations that would chelate with the polymer molecules to form a macromolecular structure.
The Impact of Combination Antiretroviral Therapy and its Interruption on Anxiety, Stress, Depression and Quality of Life in Thai Patients
Authors: Nüesch Reto , Gayet-Ageron Angèle , Chetchotisakd Ploenchan , Prasithsirikul Wisit , Kiertiburanakul Sasisopin , Munsakul Warangkana , Raksakulkarn Phitsanu , Tansuphasawasdikul Somboon , Chautrakarn Sineenart , Ruxrungtham Kiat , Hirschel Bernard , Anaworanich Jintanat
Published: September 2009

Objective:

Investigation on anxiety, stress, depression, and quality of life (QoL) within STACCATO, a randomised trial of two treatment strategies: CD4 guided scheduled treatment interruption (STI) compared to continuous treatment (CT).

Participants:

Thai patients with HIV-infection enrolled in the STACCATO trial.

Methods:

Anxiety, depression assessed by the questionnairesHospital Anxiety and Depression Scale(HADS) and DASS, stress assessed by theDepression Anxiety Stress Scale(DASS), and QoL evaluated by theHIV Medical Outcome Study(MOS-HIV) questionnaires. Answers to questionnaires were evaluated at 4 time-points: baseline, 24 weeks, 48 weeks and at the end of STACCATO.

Results:

A total of 251 patients answered the HADS/DASS and 241 answered the MOS-HIV of the 379 Thai patients enrolled into STACCATO (66.2 and 63.6% respectively). At baseline 16.3% and 7.2% of patients reported anxiety and depression using HADS scale. Using the DASS scale, 35.1% reported mild to moderate and 9.6% reported severe anxiety; 8.8% reported mild to moderate and 2.0% reported severe depression; 42.6% reported mild to moderate and 4.8% reported severe stress. We showed a significant improvement of the MHS across time (p=0.001), but no difference between arms (p=0.17). The summarized physical health status score (PHS) did not change during the trial (p=0.15) nor between arm (p=0.45). There was no change of MHS or PHS in the STI arm, taking into account the number of STI cycle (p=0.30 and 0.57) but MHS significant increased across time-points (p=0.007).

Conclusion:

Antiretroviral therapy improved mental health and QOL, irrespective of the treatment strategy.
A Systematic Review of Economic Analyses Studying Rituximab in R-CHOP Therapy in Patients with Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Yoder Jenna L. , Kamal Khalid M.
Published: September 2009

Objectives:

To explore the use of pharmacoeconomic principles through examination of economic evaluations pertaining to the combination of the monoclonal antibody rituximab with conventional CHOP (cyclophosphamide/doxorubicin/ vincristine/ prednisone) or CHOP-like chemotherapy regimens in patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Methods:

A literature search was conducted using Evidence-Based Medical Reviews (EBMR), International Pharmaceutical Abstracts (IPA), and Medline databases to identify all economic studies relating to rituximab in combination with CHOP or CHOP-like regimens. The systematic evaluation also utilized the Quality of Health Economic Studies instrument to assess the quality of each study that was included in the final review.

Results:

Initially, eight studies were retrieved which included the use of rituximab in non-Hodgkin lymphoma treatment. Of these, four studies were excluded as rituximab was used as a stand-alone treatment option. The remaining four studies involved conventional CHOP therapy versus the combination with rituximab (R-CHOP) in patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma. One study employed a cost-effectiveness analysis while the remaining three studies used a cost-utility analysis
and reported the outcomes in terms of quality-adjusted life years (QALYs).

Conclusions:

The cost-effectiveness evaluation illustrated the dominance of R-CHOP over CHOP-alone in terms of both lower costs and increased life years gained. The cost-utility of R-CHOP in terms of costs/QALYs were below the accepted threshold of 50,000 in international monetary units. Through examination of evaluation principles employed, it is found that valid results are highly dependent on the input data, assumptions, and sensitivity analyses. Clinical decisionmakers
must take into account specific inclusions of costs relevant to their own practice setting.
Wine Brokers as Independent Experts
Authors: Fares M'hand
Published: September 2009

This paper aims to show that an institutional arrangement such as brokerage is an efficient coordination mechanism to mitigate the contractual hazards in the relationship between merchants and wine growers. We explain its efficiency by considering brokers as independent experts that can help merchants to monitor the growers' wine-making process. More precisely, when the merchant cannot observe the grower's production effort and finds it costly to commit to a credible monitoring of the wine quality process, it can be efficient to delegate the monitoring task to the broker. Thus, delegation to a third party has a commitment effect.
Identifying Community Structures from Network Data via Maximum Likelihood Methods
Authors: Copic Jernej , Jackson Matthew O. , Kirman Alan
Published: September 2009

Networks of social and economic interactions are often influenced by unobserved structures among the nodes. Based on a simple model of how an unobserved community structure generates networks of interactions, we axiomatize a method of detecting the latent community structures from network data. The method is based on maximum likelihood estimation.
Surgical treatment for lumbar lateral recess stenosis with the full-endoscopic interlaminar approach versus conventional microsurgical technique: a prospective, randomized, controlled study
Authors: Ruetten Sebastian , Komp Martin , Merk Harry , Godolias Georgios
Published: September 2009

Object

Extensive decompression with laminectomy where appropriate is often still described as the method of choice in surgery for lateral recess stenosis. Nonetheless, tissue-sparing procedures are becoming more common. Endoscopic techniques have become the standard in many areas because of the advantages they offer in surgical technique and in rehabilitation. Transforaminal and interlaminar access provide 2 full-endoscopic (FE) techniques for lumbar spine surgery. The goal of this prospective randomized controlled study was to compare the surgical results for the FE technique via the interlaminar approach with those of the conventional microsurgical technique in patients with degenerative lateral recess stenosis.

Methods

A total of 161 patients with FE or microsurgical decompression underwent follow-up for 2 years. In addition to general and specific parameters, the following measuring instruments were used: visual analog scale, German version of the North American Spine Society instrument, and the Oswestry low-back pain disability questionnaire.

Results

The results show that 74.5% of patients reported no longer having leg pain, and 20.5% had only occasional pain. The clinical results were the same in both groups. The rate of complications and revisions was significantly reduced in the FE group. The FE techniques brought advantages in the following areas: operation, complications, traumatization, and rehabilitation.

Conclusions

The clinical results of the FE interlaminar technique are equal to those of the microsurgical technique. At the same time, there are advantages in the operation technique, such as reduced traumatization. The FE interlaminar spinal decompression procedure is a sufficient and safe supplement and alternative to microsurgical procedures.
Multilevel oblique corpectomy without fusion in managing cervical myelopathy: long-term outcome and stability evaluation in 268 patients
Authors: Chibbaro Salvatore , Mirone Giuseppe , Makiese Orphée , George Bernard
Published: September 2009

Object

The multilevel oblique corpectomy (MOC) allows widening of the spinal canal and foramen trough via an anterolateral access to the cervical spine with control of the vertebral artery and does not require vertebral stabilization or fusion. In the present study, the authors' goal was to demonstrate the long-term efficacy and safety of MOC in the treatment of selected cases of spondylotic myelopathy.

Methods

The authors conducted a prospective study in a series of 268 patients who underwent MOC for cervical spondylotic myelopathy over a 14-year period. Preoperative and postoperative neurological functioning were evaluated with the modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association scale. Spinal stability was assessed in all patients on serial plain and dynamic cervical radiographs at the last follow-up. The degree of canal expansion after MOC was also measured using the spinal canal/vertebral body ratio, and directly by measuring the diameter of osseous canal on pre- and postoperative CT scans and high-resolution MR images.

Results

At a mean follow-up of 96 months, clinical improvement was recorded in 86.6% of patients with a global recovery rate of 87.6%, clinical stability in 8%, and worsening in 5%. Long-term spinal stability was demonstrated in 98% of patients.

Conclusions

Multilevel oblique corpectomy was demonstrated to be a safe procedure that provided good results in terms of improved functional status and long-term spinal stability.
Trajectory analysis and pullout strength of self-centering lumbar pedicle screws
Authors: Crawford Neil R. , Yüksel K. Zafer , Doğan Şeref , Villasana-Ramos Octavio , Soto-Barraza Julio C. , Baek Seungwon , Porter Randall W. , Marciano Frederick F. , Theodore Nicholas
Published: September 2009

Object

An experiment was performed to study the limits of the ability of screws designed to center themselves in the pedicle during insertion, and to study whether straight-ahead versus inward screw insertion trajectories differ in their resistance to pullout.

Methods

Forty-nine human cadaveric lumbar vertebrae were studied. Pedicle screws were inserted in trajectories starting 0°, 10°, 20°, or 30° from the optimal trajectory, either medially or laterally misdirected. The surgeon then inserted the screw with forward thrust but without resisting the screw's tendency to reorient its own trajectory during insertion. On the opposite pedicle, a control screw was inserted with the more standard inward-angled anatomical trajectory and insertion point. Cortical wall violation during insertion was recorded. Screws were then pulled out at a constant displacement rate while ultimate strength was recorded.

Results

Lateral misdirection as small as 10° was likely to lead to cortical wall violation (3 of 7 violations). Conversely, medial misdirection usually resulted in safe screw insertion (1 of 21 violations for 10°, 20°, or 30° medial misdirection). The resistance to pullout of screws inserted in a straight-ahead trajectory did not differ significantly from that of screws inserted along an inward trajectory (p = 0.68).

Conclusions

Self-tapping, self-drilling pedicle screws can redirect themselves to a much greater extent during medial than during lateral misdirection. The cortical wall is more likely to be violated laterally than medially. The strength of straight-ahead and inward trajectories was equivalent.
Variety of spinal vascular pathology seen in adult Cobb syndrome
Authors: Johnson Walter D. , Petrie Michelle M.
Published: September 2009

Cobb syndrome is a rare clinical entity that includes the combination of a vascular skin nevus and an angioma in the spinal canal present at identical dermatomal level(s) (cutaneomeningospinal angiomatosis). To date, 38 cases have been reported, only 18 of which are in adults (> 18 years of age). The majority of these cases have been described in the era predating current neuroimaging techniques, and most authors have assumed that each case involves similar vascular pathology. This report highlights 2 patients presenting with similar thoracic cutaneous vascular nevi yet with markedly differing spinal vascular pathology.

A 29-year-old man presented with cutaneous hemangioma and a progressive paraparesis and paresthesia of the lower extremities. A 20 × 20–cm port-wine stain over his right upper midback (T6–10) correlated precisely with MR imaging that demonstrated an enhancing epidural mass between T-6 and T-10 causing compression of the cord and cord edema. A 34-year-old man also presented with progressive myelopathy and a 15 × 20–cm port-wine stain within the same dermatomal region as a Type III spinal arteriovenous malformation.

Workup for each patient included pre- and postoperative contrast-enhanced MR imaging with vascular sequencing and spinal angiography. The first patient was treated with bilateral laminectomy at the T6–10 levels, with significant postoperative improvement in motor strength. The second patient underwent coil embolization of an intranidal aneurysm, with follow-up embolization 8 years later.

Cobb syndrome is an unusual entity in the adult population and should be considered when there is a constellation of cutaneous manifestation and underlying neurological deficit. The vascular skin nevus associated with Cobb syndrome is accompanied by a wide variety of vascular pathologies.
Spinal glomus-type arteriovenous malformations: microsurgical treatment in 20 cases
Authors: Boström Azize , Krings Timo , Hans Franz J. , Schramm Johannes , Thron Armin K. , Gilsbach Joachim M.
Published: September 2009

Object

Glomus-type spinal arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are rare. In the literature only small series and anecdotal reports can be found, and there are no prospective series elucidating the natural course or the superiority of 1 treatment regimen over another (such as surgery versus embolization versus conservative treatment). Microsurgical treatment of spinal AVMs often seems difficult because many lesions are not anatomically suitable for primary microsurgical occlusion and are therefore treated with first-line neuroradiological interventions or not at all.

Methods

Between 1989 and 2005, 20 patients with glomus-type AVMs underwent microsurgical treatment at 2 major neurosurgical centers in Germany. The history of symptoms in these patients ranged from 2 days to 11 years. Four patients presented with subarachnoid hemorrhage, 2 with intramedullary hematoma, 4 with paresthesia or pain, and 10 with clinical signs of myelopathy. Seven patients underwent partial embolization prior to microsurgery. The authors only operated on AVMs accessible from a dorsal or dorsolateral approach. Neurological status was assessed with the McCormick classification scheme. Follow-up data were obtained from outpatient records. Three patients were interviewed over the telephone and 4 patients were not available for follow-up evaluation.

Results

Surgery was performed via a laminectomy in 14 and hemilaminectomy in 6 patients. The microsurgical technique used consisted of retrograde dissection of the AVM from the venous side in most cases. Four (20%) of 20 patients showed worsening of neurological symptoms to a worse McCormick grade, probably caused by suspected venous stasis directly after surgery, however only 1 patient (5%) suffered permanent deterioration after surgery. In 14 patients postoperative angiography proved complete occlusion in 11 patients, including the presence of a remnant requiring a second operation with complete occlusion thereafter in 1 patient. In 3 patients occlusion was incomplete: a small residual AVM remained in 1 patient, and a discrete feeding vessel without a vein was evident in 2 patients.

Conclusions

Spinal cord AVMs are rare. If embolization is not possible, surgery may be indicated in selected cases. Spinal AVMs behave differently after incomplete occlusion either surgically or with embolization. A postoperative reduction in symptoms is frequent despite the presence of small remnants, and the risk of neurological deficits seems relatively low even in residual AVMs. Therefore, treatment need not necessarily aim at complete occlusion if that would be associated with an unacceptably high risk of neurological deficits.
Immunogenicity of bone morphogenetic proteins
Authors: Hwang Chang Ju , Vaccaro Alexander R. , Lawrence James P. , Hong Joseph , Schellekens Huub , Alaoui-Ismaili Moulay Hicham , Falb Dean
Published: September 2009

Object

The object of this paper is to review the immunogenicity of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) and to compare the results of the immunogenicity characterization and clinical consequences between recombinant human (rh)BMP-2 and recombinant human osteogenic protein-1 (rhOP-1/BMP-7).

Methods

The immunogenicity of therapeutic proteins and its clinical effects were reviewed. The characteristics of BMPs were also described in terms of immunogenicity. The methods and results of antibody detection in various clinical trials of rhBMP-2 and rhOP-1 were compared, including the most recent studies using a systematic characterization strategy with both a binding assay and bioassay.

Results

Similar to all recombinant human proteins, rhBMPs induce immune responses in a select subgroup of patients. Adverse effects from this response in these patients, however, have not been reported with antibody formation to either rhBMP-2 or rhOP-1. Overall, the incidence of antibody formation was slightly higher in rhOP-1 trials than in rhBMP-2 trials.

Conclusions

Although they occur in a subgroup of patients, the immune responses against rhBMPs have no correlation with any clinical outcome or safety parameter. Clinicians, however, must be aware of the potential complications caused by the immunogenicity of BMPs until more studies clearly elucidate their safety.
Clinical study of reconstructed bladder innervation below the level of spinal cord injury to produce urination by Achilles tendon–to-bladder reflex contractions
Authors: Lin Haodong , Hou Chunlin , Zhen Xianyou , Xu Zhen
Published: September 2009

Object

Neurogenic bladder dysfunction following spinal cord injury (SCI) is a major medical and social problem for which there is no ideal treatment strategy. In the present study, the authors analyze the effectiveness of neurogenic bladder reinnervation in patients with SCIs by using Achilles tendon reflexes below the paraplegic level.

Methods

Spinal root anastomoses were performed in 12 paraplegic patients with hyperreflexic neurogenic bladder and detrusor external sphincter dyssynergia (DESD) caused by complete suprasacral SCI, in an attempt to reinnervate the bladder. The surgery anastomosed the unilateral proximal end of the S-1 ventral root and the distal end of the S-2 and/or S-3 ventral roots to build the Achilles tendon–to-bladder reflex, while the S-1 dorsal root was kept intact as the trigger for micturition after axonal regeneration. All patients underwent urodynamic evaluation before surgery and at follow-up.

Results

The mean follow-up duration was 3 years. Of the 12 patients, 9 (75%) regained satisfactory bladder control within 6 to 12 months after ventral root microanastomosis. In these 9 patients, urodynamic studies revealed a change from detrusor hyperreflexia with DESD and high detrusor pressure to almost normal storage and synergic voiding without DESD. The average bladder capacity increased from 258 ± 33 ml to 350 ± 49 ml, residual urine decreased from 214 ± 36 ml to 45 ± 11 ml, and urinary infections were not observed. Patients with impaired renal function experienced a full recovery. Three patients failed to show any improvement after the operation.

Conclusions

These results suggest the effectiveness of bladder innervation below the level of SCI to produce urination by Achilles tendon–to-bladder reflex contractions, and might therefore provide a new clinical approach to reconstructing spasmodic bladder urination function.
Unilateral C-1 lateral mass sagittal split fracture: an unstable Jefferson fracture variant
Authors: Bransford Richard , Falicov Alexis , Nguyen Quynh , Chapman Jens
Published: September 2009

Object

The object of this study was to describe an unusual fracture subtype within C-1 injuries with a propensity to result in late deformity and pain. Most patients with C-1 injuries are nonsurgically treated using external immobilization unless there is an injury of the transverse atlantal ligament. The authors describe an unusual variant involving a unilateral sagittal split with a high tendency to late deformity and pain. They also review the literature and treatment of C-1 fractures.

Methods

A retrospective review of 12,671 CT scans from a Level I trauma center over a 6-year period yielded 54 patients with C-1 fractures. Among these patients, 6 had an unusual unilateral lateral mass sagittal split, which resulted in a late cock-robin deformity in all survivors and thus a surgical deformity correction with occipital-cervical instrumented fusions. Patient charts and radiographs were reviewed, this fracture subtype is described, and its treatment discussed.

Results

Radiographic studies in 6 patients with C-1 fractures demonstrated a unilateral sagittal split of the lateral mass but an intact transverse atlantal ligament. In the 3 surviving patients, a late cock-robin deformity, significant loss of neck rotation, and severe neck pain developed. Vertebral artery occlusion, as revealed on CT angiography, occurred in 1 patient. All patients were placed in traction and underwent successful occipital-cervical fusion and deformity correction. At the final follow-up, all patients had satisfactory pain relief and improved head alignment.

Conclusions

Patients with a unilateral sagittal split of the C-1 lateral mass have unstable injuries and must be carefully monitored, with a low threshold for surgical reconstruction or prolonged traction. Patients with late deformity can be successfully treated with occipital-cervical instrumented fusions.
Spinal arteriovenous malformation associated with syringomyelia
Authors: Srivatanakul Kittipong , Songsaeng Dittapong , Ozanne Augustin , Toulgoat Frédérique , Lasjaunias Pierre
Published: September 2009

The authors describe 4 cases of syringomyelia-associated spinal cord arteriovenous malformation (AVM). All cases were managed with embolization of the AVM. Treatments were aimed to stabilize the AVM itself and not directed toward the syrinx. In 3 of the 4 cases the syringomyelia resolved after treatment. Reports concerning AVM as a cause of syringomyelia is very scarce and lacks posttreatment clinical information. In light of the clinical course and imaging findings, the authors propose a theory that venous hypertension in the spinal cord is the trigger for the development of syringomyelia, which may reverse after AVM treatment.
Surgical results of intramedullary spinal cord tumor with spinal cord monitoring to guide extent of resection
Authors: Matsuyama Yukihiro , Sakai Yoshihito , Katayama Yoshito , Imagama Shiro , Ito Zenya , Wakao Norimitsu , Sato Koji , Kamiya Mitsuhiro , Yukawa Yasutsugu , Kanemura Tokumi , Yanase Makoto , Ishiguro Naoki
Published: September 2009

Object

The authors investigated the outcome of intramedullary spinal cord tumor surgery, focusing on the effect of preoperative neurological status on postoperative mobility and the extent of tumor excision guided by intraoperative spinal cord monitoring prospectively.

Methods

Intramedullary spinal cord tumor surgery was performed in 131 patients between 1997 and 2007. The authors compared the pre- and postoperative neurological status and examined the type of surgery in 106 of these patients. A modified McCormick Scale (Grades I–V) was used to assess ambulatory ability (I = normal ambulation; II = mild motor sensory deficit, independent without external aid; III = independent with external aid; IV = care required; and V = wheelchair required). The type of surgery was classified into 4 levels: total resection, subtotal resection, partial resection, and biopsy.

Results

The 106 patients consisted of 47 females and 59 males, whose average age was 42.5 years (range 6–75 years). The mean follow-up period was 7.3 years (range 2.5 months–21 years). The tumor types included astrocytoma (12 cases), ependymoma (46 cases), hemangioblastoma (16 cases), cavernous hemangioma (17 cases), and others (15 cases overall: gangliocytoma, 1; germ cell tumor, 1; lymphoma, 3; neurinoma, 1; meningioma, 1; oligodendroglioma, 1; sarcoidosis, 2; glioma, 1; and unknown, 4). Initial total excision, subtotal resection, partial resection, biopsy, and duraplasty were performed in 59, 12, 22, 12, and 1 patients, respectively. According to the preoperative McCormick Scale, ambulatory status was classified as Grades I, II, III, IV, and V in 41(38%), 30 (28%), 14 (13%), 19 (19%), and 2 (2%) patients, respectively. Thirty-three (31%) of 106 patients suffered postoperative neurological deterioration. The number of patients who did not lose ambulatory ability or who achieved an ambulatory status of Grade I or II postoperatively was 33 (80%), 21 (70%), 10 (71%), 8 (42%), and 1 (50%) in patients with preoperative Grades I, II, III, IV, and V, respectively. Total excision was performed in 31 (79%) of 39 patients with preoperative Grade I, 12 (40%) of 30 patients with Grade II, 7 (50%) of 14 patients with Grade III, and 9 of 21 patients (38%) with Grade IV or V, indicating that the rate of total excision was significantly higher in patients with Grade I status.

Conclusions

The postoperative ambulatory ability was excellent in patients with a good preoperative neurological status. Total excision in patients with Grade I or II ambulation was associated with a good prognosis for postoperative mobility. However, the rate of postoperative deterioration was 31.5%, which is relatively high, and patients should be fully informed of this concern prior to intramedullary spinal cord tumor surgery.
Choosing between A+N compounds and lexicalized A+N phrases: The position of French in comparison to Germanic languages
Authors: Van Goethem Kristel
Published: September 2009

It has been demonstrated in the literature on Germanic languages that lexicalized A+N phrases may have the same naming function as A+N compounds ( Jackendoff 1997 , 2002 ; Booij 2002 ; Hüning 2004 , forthcoming a ; Schlücker 2008 ). However, these languages may show particular preferences for either the former or the latter naming strategy, even when both strategies are available. In German A+N compounding is, comparatively speaking, very productive, whereas it is said to be no longer productive in English, which generally uses A+N phrases for the same function (e.g. Festplatte – hard disk). Dutch seems to take an intermediary position: here, both word formation processes are productive; but compared to German, Dutch shows a stronger preference for lexicalized A+N phrases (cf. De Caluwe 1990 ; Booij 2002 ; Hüning forthcoming a ).

The central aim of this paper is to situate French on this lexicon-grammar continuum. This, however, requires first of all the formulation of a univocal definition of compounding, since the notion generally receives a less restrictive interpretation in Romance languages than it does in Germanic languages. It will be shown that French has a strong preference for lexicalized A+N phrases: even when both German and Dutch use A+N compounds, French – like English – generally still opts for the syntactic naming strategy (e.g. Schnellzug – sneltrein – fast train – train rapide).
A+N constructions in Mandarin and the ‘compound vs. phrase’ debate
Authors: Schäfer Martin
Published: September 2009

Mandarin Chinese has three A+N constructions with distinct formal properties. One construction is clearly phrasal, one clearly constitutes a compound. The status of the third construction is controversial, being analysed either as a compound or as a phrase. Frequently drawing on data from Germanic A+N constructions for comparison, I show in this article that this issue is undecidable on the basis of the Mandarin data. On the other hand, I argue that the third construction cannot be collapsed with either of the other two constructions, regardless of whether it is analysed as a compound or a phrase.
Epidemiological Study of Rickettsial Infections in Patients with Hypertransaminemia in Madrid (Spain)
Authors: Lledó Lourdes , González Rosario , Gegúndez María  Isabel , Beltrán María , Saz José  Vicente
Published: September 2009

A retrospective analysis was performed to detect anti-rickettsial antibodies in the serum of patients with hypertransaminemia of unknown etiology, and in that of healthy members of the general population of Madrid (Spain). Among 143 patients 16 (11.2%) were positive for anti-R. conorii IgG antibodies and 7% for R. typhi. PCR analysis was performed in patients with IgM antibodies. Among 143 healthy subjects from the general population, seven (4.9%) were positive for anti-R. conorii IgG antibodies, and 2.8% for R. typhi. These results show that anti-rickettsial antibodies are more commonly detected in patients with hypertransaminemia than in healthy people.
Tobacco Use, Exposure to Secondhand Smoke, and Training on Cessation Counseling Among Nursing Students: Cross-Country Data from the Global Health Professions Student Survey (GHPSS), 2005–2009
Authors: Warren Charles W. , Sinha Dhirendra N. , Lee Juliette , Lea Veronica , Jones Nathan R.
Published: September 2009

The Nursing Global Health Professions Student Survey (GHPSS) has been conducted in schools in 39 countries and the Gaza Strip/West Bank (identified as “sites” for the remainder of this paper). In half the sites, over 20% of the students currently smoked cigarettes, with males having higher rates than females in 22 sites. Over 60% of students reported having been exposed to secondhand smoke in public places in 23 of 39 sites. The majority of students recognized that they are role models in society, believed they should receive training on counseling patients to quit using tobacco, but few reported receiving any formal training. Tobacco control efforts must discourage tobacco use among health professionals, promote smoke free workplaces, and implement programs that train health professionals in effective cessation-counseling techniques.
Ugandenial A, a New Drimane-type Sesquiterpenoid from Warburgia ugandensis
Authors: Xu Min , Litaudon Marc , Krief Sabrina , Martin Marie-Thérèse , Kasenene John , Kiremire Bernard , Dumontet Vincent , Guéritte Françoise
Published: September 2009

One new drimane-type sesquiterpenoid, named ugandenial A (1), was isolated from the ethyl acetate extract of the bark of Warburgia ugandensis (Canellaceae) together with eight known drimane-type sesquiterpenoids: 11α-hydroxycinnamosmolide (2), warburganal (3), polygodial (4), mukaadial (5), dendocarbin A (6), 9α-hydroxycinnamolide (7), dendocarbin L (8) and dendocarbin M (9). Their structures were established by detailed spectroscopic analysis. In addition a keto-enol equilibrium was demonstrated for compound 1 through a detailed NMR analysis run in CD2Cl2 at 190 K. Cytotoxicity of the isolated compounds against KB cells was evaluated.
Hypertensive Emergency in Aortic Dissection and Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm—A Review of Management
Authors: Gupta Prateek K. , Gupta Himani , Khoynezhad Ali
Published: September 2009

Over the last few decades, treatment for aortic dissection and thoracic aortic aneurysms has evolved significantly with improvement in outcomes. Treatment paradigms include medical, endovascular and surgical options. As aortic dissection presents as a hypertensive emergency, diligent control of BP is of utmost importance in order to reduce the progression of dissection with possible aortic branch malperfusion. Treatment should begin on arrival to the emergency department and continues in the intensive care unit, endovascular suite or the operating room. Novel antihypertensive medications with improved pharmacological profile and improved surgical techniques, have improved the prognosis of patients with aortic aneurysm and/or aortic dissection. Nevertheless, morbidity and mortality remain high and hypertensive emergency poses a significant challenge in aortic dissection and thoracic aortic aneurysms.
A Community-Based Event Delivery Protocol in Publish/Subscribe Systems for Delay Tolerant Sensor Networks
Authors: Liu Nianbo , Liu Ming , Zhu Jinqi , Gong Haigang
Published: September 2009

The basic operation of a Delay Tolerant Sensor Network (DTSN) is to finish pervasive data gathering in networks with intermittent connectivity, while the publish/subscribe (Pub/Sub for short) paradigm is used to deliver events from a source to interested clients in an asynchronous way. Recently, extension of Pub/Sub systems in DTSNs has become a promising research topic. However, due to the unique frequent partitioning characteristic of DTSNs, extension of a Pub/Sub system in a DTSN is a considerably difficult and challenging problem, and there are no good solutions to this problem in published works. To ad apt Pub/Sub systems to DTSNs, we propose CED, a community-based event delivery protocol. In our design, event delivery is based on several unchanged communities, which are formed by sensor nodes in the network according to their connectivity. CED consists of two components: event delivery and queue management. In event delivery, events in a community are delivered to mobile subscribers once a subscriber comes into the community, for improving the data delivery ratio. The queue management employs both the event successful delivery time and the event survival time to decide whether an event should be delivered or dropped for minimizing the transmission overhead. The effectiveness of CED is demonstrated through comprehensive simulation studies.
A Real-Time Tool Positioning Sensor for Machine-Tools
Authors: Ruiz Antonio Ramon Jimenez , Rosas Jorge Guevara , Granja Fernando Seco , Honorato Jose Carlos Prieto , Taboada Jose Juan Esteve , Serrano Vicente Mico , Jimenez Teresa Molina
Published: September 2009

In machining, natural oscillations, and elastic, gravitational or temperature deformations, are still a problem to guarantee the quality of fabricated parts. In this paper we present an optical measurement system designed to track and localize in 3D a reference retro-reflector close to the machine-tool’s drill. The complete system and its components are described in detail. Several tests, some static (including impacts and rotations) and others dynamic (by executing linear and circular trajectories), were performed on two different machine tools. It has been integrated, for the first time, a laser tracking system into the position control loop of a machine-tool. Results indicate that oscillations and deformations close to the tool can be estimated with micrometric resolution and a bandwidth from 0 to more than 100 Hz. Therefore this sensor opens the possibility for on-line compensation of oscillations and deformations.
Delay QoS and MAC Aware Energy-Efficient Data-Aggregation Routing in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Lin Frank  Yeong-Sung , Yen Hong-Hsu , Lin Shu-Ping
Published: September 2009

By eliminating redundant data flows, data aggregation capabilities in wireless sensor networks could transmit less data to reduce the total energy consumption. However, additional data collisions incur extra data retransmissions. These data retransmissions not only increase the system energy consumption, but also increase link transmission delays. The decision of when and where to aggregate data depends on the trade-off between data aggregation and data retransmission. The challenges of this problem need to address the routing (layer 3) and the MAC layer retransmissions (layer 2) at the same time to identify energy-efficient data-aggregation routing assignments, and in the meantime to meet the delay QoS. In this paper, for the first time, we study this cross-layer design problem by using optimization-based heuristics. We first model this problem as a non-convex mathematical programming problem where the objective is to minimize the total energy consumption subject to the data aggregation tree and the delay QoS constraints. The objective function includes the energy in the transmission mode (data transmissions and data retransmissions) and the energy in the idle mode (to wait for data from downstream nodes in the data aggregation tree). The proposed solution approach is based on Lagrangean relaxation in conjunction with a number of optimization-based heuristics. From the computational experiments, it is shown that the proposed algorithm outperforms existing heuristics that do not take MAC layer retransmissions and the energy consumption in the idle mode into account.
Expert Opinion:
U
nited
K
ingdom,
C
anada, and
A
ustralia
Authors: Turner Barry
Published: September 2009

This article will by examination of statute and case law compare the systems for admission of expert testimony in the three jurisdictions. The article will attempt to draw comparison between the systems and demonstrate the most obvious differences and similarities.
Discovery: Discovery Motions
Authors: Wheate Rhonda M.
Published: September 2009

Discovery motions are a means of compelling disclosure in adversarial law systems. This article sets out the general principles of discovery motions in the United Kingdom, both in criminal and civil law contexts. The effect of European developments including theEuropean Convention on Human Rightsand decisions of the European Court of Human Rights, on legislation and common law in the United Kingdom, is also discussed. The highly regulated discovery motion process in the United States is described elsewhere (see FSA014 and FSA015).
Hearsay Evidence
Authors: Moenssens Andre
Published: September 2009

When oral or written statements are sought to be introduced as evidence in court proceedings conducted in a jurisdiction that follows Anglo‐Saxon common law, the rule against the use of hearsay evidence may, in limited cases, bar their admission. The rule has the greatest application in the United States, but also exists, to a somewhat lesser extent, in other adversary system countries. While the complex technicalities of the hearsay rules are of primary interest to attorneys and judges, expert witnesses must be somewhat familiar with the rule and the terms used, since objections on hearsay grounds may be made to the testimony they are asked to provide, to documents used in their examination, and to reports they have prepared.
Malpractice Actions Against Experts
Authors: Henderson Carol , Lenz Kurt W.
Published: September 2009

This article addresses the expert witness malpractice cause of action, the elements of such a claim, and other solutions offered to curb experts' negligence, followed by a discussion of witness immunity in US courts.
Shaken Baby Syndrome
Authors: Squier Waney
Published: September 2009

Recent pathological, clinical, and biomechanical evidence questions the validity of the shaken baby syndrome (SBS), usually diagnosed by finding the triad of retinal hemorrhage, encephalopathy, and subdural hemorrhage (SDH) in infants.

Retinal hemorrhages have many other causes and are more common after the occurrence of natural disease and accidents than inflicted injury. Encephalopathy results from hypoxic‐ischemic injury rather than traumatic axonal injury.

Trauma is a common cause of infant SDH, but there are other causes and a quarter of normal births are associated with SDH on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan.

SDH is usually a thin bilateral film, and its source is traditionally ascribed to torn bridging veins. This is unproven and rarely documented. The dura is an alternative source; bleeding into the dura is common in asphyxiated infants. SDH evolves into a reactive membrane containing thin‐walled capillaries. Recurrent bleeding into these membranes is seen on microscopy. Some SDH evolves into chronic fluid collections, the causes for which are unknown.

Biomechanical studies have failed to show that shaking can cause SDH. The forces generated by shaking are far less than those resulting from impact, including low‐level falls.

The importance of considering the birth and early clinical history when examining a case of suspected abuse in emphasized.
Hair: Microscopic Analysis
Authors: Robertson James
Published: September 2009

With some rare exceptions mammals possess hairs and mammals lose hairs! The “human” animal loses in the order of 100–150 scalp hairs each day. It is for this reason that hairs are almost certainly found at most crime scenes. Hairs of nonhuman and human origin are readily distinguishable and it is possible to describe their microscopic appearance. On the basis of these microscopic features, it is possible to compare animal hairs and to sometimes identify the type of animal from which the hairs originated. For human hairs, on the basis of their microscopic features, it is also possible to individualize hairs to some extent. Human hair varies within an individual and between individuals. The challenge for the forensic hair examiner is to capture this microscopic information and to use it to differentiate hairs from different sources. In this article, the rationale and science underpinning hair examinations is described. The role of microscopic examination and the other techniques such as DNA testing is considered.

Finally, the value of hair as evidence and, how it may meet relevant evidence standards, is discussed.
Y‐Chromosome Short Tandem Repeats
Authors: Ballantyne Jack , Hanson Erin K.
Published: September 2009

Y‐chromosome short tandem repeats (Y‐STRs) are a class of genetic markers present on the nonrecombining portion of the male‐specific Y chromosome. They are thus inherited in a patrilineal manner and can be used in a variety of specialized casework situations in which standard autosomal STR analysis is of limited (or no) probative value. They are particularly useful for cases involving admixed male and female DNA for which a separation of the male‐ and female‐derived cells is unsuccessful or not feasible. This article briefly describes the basic biology of the Y chromosome, the common Y‐STR markers incorporated into commercial kits, the probative value of a Y‐STR “match,” and typical casework applications of the technology.
Short Tandem Repeats: Interpretation
Authors: Balding David
Published: September 2009

We review interpretation issues for short tandem repeat (STR) profiles, focusing on the canonical forensic identification problem in which the question at issue is whether a particular individual (usually the defendant but possibly a victim) is the source of a single‐contributor DNA sample. We show how the appropriate likelihood ratios for evidence evaluation simplify in this setting to match probabilities. One of the key issues is the role of population genetics, and we review the formulation of match probabilities in terms of the population genetics parameter θ, also known as
F
ST
, that can be interpreted informally as the probability that the defendant and the alternative possible DNA source share an allele through inheritance from a common ancestor. We also briefly consider likelihood ratios for paternity, highlighting the roles of population genetics and of STR mutation.
Interpretation: Legal Perspective
Authors: Kaye David H.
Published: September 2009

This article describes the Anglo‐American law of evidence as it applies to forensic‐science testimony interpreting the significance of a “match” to trace evidence.