bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nitrogen Application in Sainfoin under Rain‐Fed Conditions in Wyoming: Productivity and Cost Implications
Authors: Sintim Henry Y. , Adjesiwor Albert T. , Zheljazkov Valtcho D. , Islam M. Anowarul , Obour Augustine K.
Published: November 2015

Leguminous crops such as sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia Scop.) have low N2 fixation; hence, supplementary N is usually provided to realize maximum yield. Nonetheless, N application should be justified by economic benefit to the cropping system. This study evaluated the productivity, nutritive value, and cost implications of N application in sainfoin under rainfed conditions at high elevations in Wyoming. The study was a 2‐factorial experiment set in a randomized complete block design with four replications, where four cultivars (Delaney, Remont, Rocky Mountain, and Shoshone) and four N rates (0, 40, 80, and 120 kg ha−1) were the treatments. Sainfoin was established in 2012, and N was broadcast‐applied in May 2013 and 2014 using urea as the N source. The profitability of the N application was assessed using a benefit–cost ratio analysis. Sainfoin yield and nutritive value was affected by cultivar and N application. Remont (1.08 Mg ha−1), Rocky Mountain (1.17 Mg ha−1), and Shoshone (1.16 Mg ha−1) produced higher forage dry matter (DM) than Delaney (0.84 Mg ha−1). The effect of N application on the forage DM was linear, but applying >80 kg N ha−1 did not result in significant increase in the forage DM. The benefit–cost ratios for the three N rates were less than one in both years, which indicated a net loss in revenue. In general, sainfoin DM and crude protein (CP) increased with N; however, the increase in forage DM with N application was not economical due to higher production costs.
Statistical Sampling Properties of the Coefficients of Three Phenotypic Selection Indices
Authors: Cerón‐Rojas J. Jesus , Crossa José , Sahagún‐Castellanos Jaime
Published: November 2015

The aim of the Smith phenotypic selection index (SPSI), the restricted phenotypic selection index (RPSI), and the predetermined proportional gains phenotypic selection index (PPG‐PSI) is to maximize the response to selection and provide the breeder with an objective rule for evaluating and selecting several traits. When the phenotypic and genotypic variances and covariances are known, these three indices are the best linear predictors. When these parameters are estimated, the three indices will be optimal only if the estimators of the index weights are unbiased and have minimal variance. There are many methods for determining the sampling properties of the SPSI but there is no method for determining the sampling properties of RPSI and PPG‐PSI coefficients. Using the canonical correlation theory, we proposed an asymptotic method for determining the statistical sampling properties of the estimators of the coefficients of the three phenotypic selection indices. We showed that under some assumptions, the sampling properties of the RPSI and PPG‐PSI coefficient estimators could be obtained using the sampling properties of the SPSI coefficient estimator. We validated the theoretical results using two real datasets. The theoretical and numerical results indicated that the three estimators of the weights for the three indices were unbiased with minimal variances. We concluded that when the number of genotypes is large, the proposed method could be used to find the sampling properties of the coefficient of the three indices.
The paradox of imperfect duty in Kant's moral philosophy: A problem in 'applying' ethics'
Authors: Richter Phillip
Published: November 2015

The Applied Ethics debate has not yet sufficiently clarified what application
of ethics exactly is. The issue of application is considered to be especially
problematic in Kantian ethics or in discourse ethics. This article describes
the concept of applying ethics in Kant. In discussing the duty of helping
others and the theory of its application in Metaphysics of Morals it is shown
that a strict separation of justification and application in ethical theory
results in the paradox of imperfect duty. The paradox says that the duty to
help others would be fulfilled without ever being fulfilled in action. To
overcome the paradox it is necessary to form submaximes of helping, which are
not arbitrarily but instructed by a theory of casuistry. This casuistry, if
it is considered as a doctrine of application in Kantian ethics, can overcome
the paradox of imperfect duty. However, the casuistry can overcome this
paradox only if it is understood as a philosophy of prudence, which can be
found in Aristotle or Descartes.
Aesthetics as analysis of mind experience
Authors: Draskic-Vicanovic Iva
Published: November 2015

The paper presents an at tempt to shed light on causes and circum stances
which brought about foundation of aesthetics in 18th century as discipline
which analyzes mind experience. Author recognizes key importance of 17th
century epistemology for constitution of modern aesthetics, principally idea
of subjectivity, subject-object relation problem and new method -
philosophical introspection. Special place in modern aesthetics, according to
author, deserves aesthetic theory of Francis Hutcheson who defines beauty as
phenomenal quality of subjective experience of human mind.
Cerebral vasomotor reactivity and apnea test in symptomatic and asymptomatic high-grade carotid stenosis
Authors: Lucic-Prokin Aleksandra , Slankamenac Petar , Kovacevic Pavle , Ruzicka-Kaloci Svetlana , Zivanovic Zeljko
Published: November 2015

Introduction. Cerebral vasomotor reactivity (VMR) represents an
autoregulatory response of the arterial trunks on the specific vasoactive
stimuli, most commonly CO2. Objective. The aim of this retrospective study
was to compare VMR in high-grade symptomatic (SCAS) and asymptomatic carotid
stenosis (ACAS), using the apnea test to evaluate the hemodynamic status.
Methods. The study included 50 patients who were hospitalized at the
neurology and vascular surgery departments as part of preparation for carotid
endarterectomy. We evaluated VMR by calculating the breath holding index
(BHI) in 34 patients with SCAS and 16 patients with ACAS, with isolated
high-grade carotid stenosis. We evaluated the impact of risk factors and
collateral circulation on BHI, as well as the correlation between the degree
of carotid stenosis and BHI. Results. A pathological BHI was more frequent in
the SCAS group (p<0.01). There was no difference in the range of BHI values
between the groups, both ipsilaterally and contralaterally. Only male gender
was associated with pathological BHI in both groups (p<0.05). Collateral
circulation did not exist in over 60% of all subjects. We confirmed a
negative correlation between the degree of carotid stenosis and BHI.
Conclusion. SCAS and ACAS patients present with different hemodynamics. While
ACAS patients have stable hemodynamics, combination of hemodynamic and
thromboembolic effects is characteristic of SCAS patients.
Approach to the treatment of atrial fibrillation in patients with cardiovascular risk profile: Multicentric international study
Authors: Pavlovic Sinisa , Kircanski Bratislav , Radovanovic Nikola , Raspopovic Srdjan , Jovanovic Velibor , Nikcevic Gabrijela , Zivkovic Mirjana , Milasinovic Goran
Published: November 2015

Introduction. Atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common arrhythmia that
requires treatment, does not come out of the focus of researchers. Monitoring
its prevalence and effects of therapy is a good guideline approach to the
growing population of patients in which this arrhythmia occurs. Objective.
The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of treatment of AF and
cardiovascular profiles in the observed population. Methods. In this
observational, cross-sectional, multicenter, international study, 584
patients in 30 centers in Serbia and Slovenia, older than 18 years and with
AF or in sinus rhythm with a history of AF, were included. The assessment of
the efficacy of treatment of AF was performed by analyzing the frequency of
adequate therapeutic effect of medication in rhythm or frequency control in
patients with AF. Results. The results confirmed that the highest incidence
of AF duration is more than seven days, and is accompanied by symptoms.
Inadequate frequency regulation was registered at 8.9% of patients.
Hypertension was registered in two-thirds of all patients, while other
cardiovascular risk factors were registered in about one-third of patients.
An echocardiographic finding in the group of patients with AF confirms
generally adequate left ventricular function with a slightly enlarged left
atrium (4.6?0.8 cm). Increasing age and time from the first episode of AF
decreases the probability of maintaining sinus rhythm, while symptomatic AF
had a positive impact on the presence of sinus rhythm. Propafenone, sotalol
and amiodarone showed a statistically significant connection with a positive
therapeutic response, while ?-blockers had a negative impact on the
probability of establishing and maintaining sinus rhythm. Conclusion.
Characteristics of therapeutic approaches, risks, comorbidity of patient
populations in Slovenia and Serbia correspond to the fullest extent with the
recommendations for good clinical practice, which further stresses the need
for extensive measures in these regions.
Predictors of depression problems of adults who live in the security endangered territory
Authors: Mirkovic Momcilo , Djuric Sladjana , Trajkovic Goran , Milosevic Jovana , Sojevic-Timotijevic Zorica
Published: November 2015

Introduction. By the year 2020, if current trends for demographic and
epidemiological transition continue, the burden of depression will have
increased to 5.7% of the total burden of disease, thus becoming the second
leading cause of disability-adjusted life year (DALY) lost. Early detection
of people at risk of developing any mental disorder is extremely important in
the prevention of all mental disorders. Objective. The objective of the study
was to determine depression predictors among adult residents in four Kosovo
and Metohia municipalities predominantly inhabited by Serbian population.
Methods. This cross-sectional study included the representative sample of
adults in Leposavic, North Kosovska Mitrovica, Gnjilane and Pristina and was
performed in October/November of 2009. The sample was selected from the list
of citizens older than 18, received in the above mentioned municipalities.
The Goldberg General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28) was used as a research
instrument. The methods of statistical analysis included descriptive
statistics, simple and multiple logistic regression analysis, and analysis of
variance, with a significance level of 0.05. Results. Problems with
depression have been significantly associated with female sex (OR=2.24),
older age (OR=1.01), lower levels of education (OR=0.50), unemployment
(OR=1.09), poor financial situation (OR=0.45), abuse (OR=0.08) and assessment
of the future political and security situation as a highly risky one
(OR=3.01). Conclusion. To determine risk groups being in greater risk to
suffer from depression is important for planning, enhancing, promoting and
implementing the prevention strategies for this disease.
Suicides among Serbian war veterans: An autopsy study
Authors: Mihailovic Zoran , Savic Slobodan , Damjanjuk Irina , Jovanovic Aleksandar , Vukovic Simo
Published: November 2015

Introduction. The risk of suicide among war veterans is a controversial
issue, where findings so far have been contradictory. Objective. This study
focusses on suicide in Serbian veterans from the wars in former Yugoslavia in
the 1990s in order to create appropriate preventive measures and reduce the
number of these fatal cases. Methods. The autopsy protocols of all 44
suicides committed by war veterans in the Belgrade District population over a
period between 1992 and 2000 were investigated. Data were obtained from
autopsy records, results of toxicological investigations and psychological
autopsy protocols. Results. Symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder were
present in 27.3%, major depression in 9.1% and schizophrenia in 6.8% of
veterans. The majority of suicides (84.1%) were committed by recruits in the
Yugoslav National Army, spending between three and eight months in the zone
of war operations. Six committed suicide during the first 30 days after their
war activities, while the majority of suicides occurred between five and six
years after combat. The most frequent manner of suicide was the use of
handguns (56.8%) and bombs (18.2%). Conclusion. The results of this research
may give useful information about the individuals with the highest suicidal
risk in order to alleviate the consequences of war psychotraumas in veterans
and prevent their growth into a permanent handicap or suicide.
Is it possible that this patient is asymptomatic? The role of multidetector ct angiography in detection of ulcerated plaques in patients with asymptomatic carotid stenosis: Case report
Authors: Tanaskovic Slobodan , Babic Srdjan , Aleksic Nikola , Matic Predrag , Gajin Predrag , Jocic Dario , Radak Djordje
Published: November 2015

Introduction. Although intervention in patients with symptomatic carotid
disease is generally accepted as beneficial, the management of asymptomatic
disease is still controversial. We wanted to introduce and discuss treatment
options in a patient with asymptomatic carotid stenosis and high embolic
potential lesions of common and internal carotid artery detected by
multidetector computed tomography (MDCT). Case Outline. A 78-year-old female
patient was admitted to our institution for diagnostics and surgical
treatment of asymptomatic high-grade carotid stenosis. Upon admission, color
duplex ultrasonography of the carotid arteries revealed the left common
carotid artery (CCA) stenosis of 50% and the ipsilateral internal carotid
artery (ICA) stenosis of 60%, while the right CCA was narrowed by 60% and the
ipsilateral ICA by 80%. Because of the left subclavian artery (LSA)
occlusion, also described by ultrasonography, MDCT angiography was performed
to assess arterial morphology for possible angioplasty. In addition to LSA
occlusion, MDCT angiography surprisingly revealed significant left CCA (>80%)
and ICA (>70%) narrowing by ulcerated plaques with high embolic potential.
Surgical treatment of the left CCA and ICA was indicated and Dacron? tubular
graft interposition was performed. The postoperative course was uneventful
and the patient was discharged from the Institute on the third postoperative
day. After the six-month follow-up the patient was doing well with
well-preserved graft patency. Conclusion. Although color duplex
ultrasonography is reliable and safe imaging modality in carotid stenosis
diagnosis, MDCT angiography plays a significant role in patients with
asymptomatic carotid stenosis since plaques with high embolic potential could
be detected, which, if left untreated, could have severe neurological
ischemic consequences.
Perinatal outcomes of pregnancies conceived by assisted reproductive technologies
Authors: Sljivancanin Tamara , Kontic-Vucinic Olivera
Published: November 2015

Introduction. Recent epidemiological studies showed significantly higher
incidence of perinatal complications in newborns and women after the use of
assisted reproductive technologies (ART). Multiple pregnancies are more
frequent after the use of ART. Singleton pregnancies following ART are more
prone to preterm birth, low and very low birth weight (LBW and VLBW), small
for gestational age (SGA) and perinatal mortality. Objective. The aim of this
study was to summarize the results of relevant articles and to evaluate
whether the mode of conception is the determining factor for different
pregnancy outcomes after assisted and natural conceptions. Methods. Eleven
studies were included in this review. The following outcomes were observed:
preterm and very preterm birth, SGA, LBW, VLBW, perinatal mortality,
admission to neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), and Apgar score (As) ?7 at
fifth minute. Qualitative analysis and quantitative assessment were
performed. Results. For singletons, odds ratios were 1.794 (95% confidence
interval 1.660-1.939) for preterm birth, 1.649 (1.301-2.089) for LBW, 1.265
(1.048-1.527) for SGA. Admission to NICU, As?7 at fifth minute and perinatal
mortality showed significantly different frequency after assisted conception.
Summary of results for twin gestations showed no significant difference
between ART and spontaneous conception for preterm birth (32-36 weeks), very
preterm birth (<32 weeks), LBW and VLBW. Conclusion. Analyzed studies showed
that infants from ART have significantly worse perinatal outcome compared
with natural conception. More observational studies should be conducted in
order to establish the exact mechanism leading to more frequent perinatal
morbidity and mortality after the use of ART.
Representations of lancet or phlebotome in Serbian medieval art
Authors: Pajic Sanja , Jurisic Vladimir
Published: November 2015

The topic of this study are representations of lancet or phlebotome in
frescoes and icons of Serbian medieval art. The very presence of this medical
instrument in Serbian medieval art indicates its usage in Serbian medical
practices of the time. Phlebotomy is one of the oldest forms of therapy,
widely spread in medieval times. It is also mentioned in Serbian medical
texts, such as Chilandar Medical Codex No. 517 and Hodoch code, i.e.
translations from Latin texts originating from Salerno-Montpellier school.
Lancet or phlebotome is identified based on archaeological finds from the
Roman period, while finds from the Middle Ages and especially from Byzantium
have been scarce. Analyses of preserved frescoes and icons has shown that, in
comparison to other medical instruments, lancet is indeed predominant in
Serbian medieval art, and that it makes for over 80% of all the
representations, while other instruments have been depicted to a far lesser
degree. Examination of written records and art points to the conclusion that
Serbian medieval medicine, both in theory and in practice, belonged entirely
to European traditions of the period.
Management by Values – a strategic dimension
Authors: Krzakiewicz Kazimierz
Published: November 2015

Management by Values - a strategic dimension This article presents the strategic aspects of the Management by Values concept. The author tries to prove that implementation of this concept in an organization helps to form a stable and competitive organizational culture, which is accepted by the organization’s members. MBV can be defined as a philosophy and practice of management, linking the basic values of the organization with its strategic objectives.

It has been assumed that leadership has always been connected with human values. The role of the leader is to manage the organization consistently with its strategic objectives and basic values. This requires that a system of values be created, which members of the organization will adhere to in their work. By making the strategic vision “more human”, the organization can not only survive but also ensure growth with the optimal financial result, using the personal involvement of its internal and external stakeholders.
Professional burnout - a comparative analysis considering the selected sectors in Poland
Authors: Witkowski Stanisław , Ślazyk-Sobol Magdalena
Published: November 2015

Professional burnout - a comparative analysis considering the key sectors in Poland The article presents the results of empirical research referring to the problem of burnout caused by professional burnout among staff of the most significant sectors in Poland. The authors presents the first part of the research project which also covered re-examination conducted after the interval of nine months. The research focused at the search for predictors of the phenomenon of burnout which - according to the latest concept of Maslach and Leiter - are as follows: emotional exhaustion, cynicism ad a reduced sense of personal achievements. With the application of neural networks, both the impact of organisational factors (organisational climate, experience of organisational stress) as well as personality-based factors onto the presence of professional burnout was verified. The main application conclusions resulted from the first stage of the research were presented at the end of the article.
Age Management – Circumstances, Essence and Advantages for Workers and Enterprises
Authors: Niewiadomska Anna
Published: November 2015

Age Management - Circumstances, Essence and Advantages for Workers and Enterprises The demographic forecasts that have been published for many years point to the growing dynamics of the ageing process of the European societies. One of its consequences is the shrinking population of young people and the growing average age of workers. In the light of the forecast deficiency and growing of the resources of workforce the concept of age management in the company is becoming more popular. This paper familiarizes the reader with the essence of age management, presenting its main premises, scopes of activity and benefits resulting from its use.
The supply risk analysis process in small and medium-sized enterprises
Authors: Kozaryn Maciej , Wasilewski Wiesław
Published: November 2015

The supply risk analysis process in small and medium enterprises The identification and evaluation of risk, especially in small and medium enterprises - has been a topic of examination by scientists from the very beginning. Expenditure connected with the implementation and proper execution of risk measurement methods is also of prominent importance.

Every organization must face risk during its operation. Quick identification and effective evaluation of its level makes it possible to maintain fluidity of activities on the market at a constant level. In the majority of cases, such processes are not formalized and they take place intuitively. Implementation of a formalized process of risk analysis is beneficial for companies, especially in the field of business decision making.

The aim of this paper is to present the process of risk analysis in an exemple company and to present possibilities for its implementation in small and medium enterprises.
Key success factors of social services organizations in the public sector
Authors: Frączkiewicz-Wronka Aldona , Szołtysek Jacek , Kotas Maria
Published: November 2015

Key success factors of social services organizations in the public sector The basic goal behind any action undertaken in an organization management is the will to achieve success. Key (or critical) success factors are the organization’s resources, competence and qualification that create its competitive advantage on a particular market at a given time, and are able to determine its possible future success. The aim of this article is to identify key success factors of the social service organizations in the public sector. The analysis of the overall evaluation of the distinct areas for an organization’s future success (calculated as the mean of each respondent’s rating of the items in the areas) demonstrated that, according to the respondents, staff competence is the most important (Table 14). This area’s mean rating amounted to 6.27 points in a seven-point scale. It should be stressed that the diversification of the items’ rating in the area was relatively low, with the standard deviation being 0.76 points. Such a value indicates that the respondents were rather unanimous in their evaluation of staff competence as of the utmost importance to an organization’s success. The items which weigh to an organization’s future success was rated very highly, at over 6 points, were service quality (mean: 6.07 points) and teamwork (mean: 6.07 points). Also the average score of funds accessibility amounted to 6 points. According to the respondents, the items of the least importance to an organization’s future success proved to be terms of employment (mean: 5.18 points) and interorganizational cooperation (mean: 5.66). However, it needs to be emphasis should be put on the fact that the respondents evaluated all the areas of the research as important, and the differences between the ratings of particular areas were relatively minor. Moreover, the diversification of these ratings might be described as little, as reflected in the values of standard variations that do not exceed 1 point, and in moderate values of range.
Innovations in e-business – new ways of delivery of food products over the Internet in the opinion of potential customers
Authors: Moroz Miroslaw
Published: November 2015

Innovations in e-business - new ways of delivery of food products over the Internet in the opinion of potential customers According to research online sales of food enjoy bigger and bigger Internet users interest. However, selling online such products isn’t free from logistic costs connected with the necessity of the geographically-spread client on the one hand and an indispensably fast delivery of food on the other hand.

This article aims at presenting an innovative Freshbox project that may solve the last mile issue in online grocery. The Freshbox project is about installing a vending machine - refrigerator in an office building giving out previously ordered food products via the Internet. The author presented an analysis of online grocery, characteristics of the Freshbox project, as well as results of research conducted among potential clients referring to the following points: market chances for Freshbox project and the conditions of success in the eyes of potential customers.
Analysis of changes in the organizational structure of municipal offices
Authors: Snopko Joanna
Published: November 2015

Organisational Structure of Municipal Offices - Key Determinats The multitude of tasks and problem issued faced by local governments necessitates their evolution towards improvement of the existing organisational structures. Comparison of the existing organisational structures of various municipal offices could create a misleading that their organizational structures do not undergo any transformations. In reality, the type of an organisational structure remains unchanged while its elements change very frequently. These changes are activated when, according to the office management, they do not ensure proper performance of tasks faced by local government administration and appropriate customer service. Also note that, in the applied solutions, there is a strive for perfection which can be noticed, in a sense. It expresses the concept that this is not a structure which can effectively play its role today and is prepared for challenges of tomorrow. However, the process of transformations has not developed any new solutions.

To this end, the local government must develop organisational structures appropriate for identifying and reaching its objectives. For this reason, it’s worthwhile to consider solutions which combine elements of the existing and modern solutions or address new opportunities created by process-oriented structures. However, these transformations must, first and foremost, cause a transformation of bureaucratic-style municipal offices into modern organisations which apply modern methods of management. These are organisations which introduce deep-reaching organisational changes, i.e. transform their hierarchic interorganisational relations into more partner relations and transform their structural solutions into more flexible solutions as well as change their employees’ way of thinking. Without such transformations in local government, municipal offices will be still referred to as bureaucracy and civil servants as bureaucrats.
Characteristics of local development planning from the perspective of planning documents referring to selected tourist communes
Authors: Rapacz Andrzej , Jaremen Daria
Published: November 2015

Characteristics of local development planning from the perspective of planning documents referring to selected tourist communes Local development planning (including the preparation of planning documents) as well as undertaking initiatives and tasks supporting local development (resulting from planning documents) play the key role in local development steering process. The objective of the hereby paper is to analyze planning documents prepared for the selected territorial self-government units (four tourism oriented communes located in Lower Silesia region) in relation to strategic planning qualities identification in particular communes and referring these qualities to the conditions of effective strategic planning (discussed in literature on public management). The conducted research results confirm that many strategic planning qualities, in the selected communes, may be responsible for lowering its effectiveness. The ones, which are mainly responsible for counteracting effective planning, are as follow: reducing SWOT analysis to just the method for listing strengths and weaknesses of communal development potential, as well as presenting only the opportunities and threats; the absence of new management tools and techniques application, including the scenario oriented method; uncritical transfer of patterns from strategies prepared for other communes and referring to planning documents more as the condition for obtaining external financing sources rather than an actual programme facilitating the accomplishment of developmental goals. In spite of the above, the improvement of planning process has been observed in communes, which in consequence should result in higher level of local development programmes practical usefulness.
Influence the intensity of industrial relations on the innovative activity. Case of Lubuskie voivodeship in 2008-2010
Authors: Świadek Arkadiusz
Published: November 2015

Influence the intensity of industrial relations on the innovative activity. Case of Lubuskie voivodeship in 2008-2010 The main objective of the study was an attempt to search for the conditions affect the intensity of supply chains for enterprises innovative activity within the regional industrial system, and consequently determine the directions for the model of regional system of innovation, taking into account the specificities of Lubuskie Region. The study was based on a questionnaire on a group of 545 companies from Silesia. The study used probity modeling. This method is an effective research tool for large, but the static tests in which the dependent variable has a qualitative character.
Association between small heat shock protein B11 and the prognostic value of MGMT promoter methylation in patients with high-grade glioma
Authors: Cheng Wen , Li Mingyang , Jiang Yang , Zhang Chuanbao , Cai Jinquan , Wang Kuanyu , Wu Anhua
Published: November 2015

OBJECT

This study investigated the role and prognostic value of heat shock proteins (HSPs) in glioma.

METHODS

Data from 3 large databases of glioma samples (Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas, Repository for Molecular Brain Neoplasia Data, and GSE16011), which contained whole-genome messenger RNA microarray expression data and patients’ clinical data, were analyzed. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed to validate protein expression in another set of 50 glioma specimens.

RESULTS

Of 28 HSPs, 11 were overexpressed in high-grade glioma (HGG) compared with low-grade glioma. A univariate Cox analysis revealed that HSPB11 has significant prognostic value for each glioma grade, which was validated by a Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. HSPB11 expression was associated with poor prognosis and was independently correlated with overall survival (OS) in HGG. This study further explored the combined role of HSPB11 and other molecular markers in HGG, such as isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) mutation and O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) promoter methylation status. HSPB11 expression was able to refine the prognostic value of IDH1 mutation in patients with HGG. However, when combined with MGMT promoter methylation status, among patients with a methylated MGMT promoter, those with lower levels of HSPB11 expression had longer OS and progression-free survival than patients with higher levels of HSPB11 expression or with an unmethylated MGMT promoter. Moreover, within the MGMT promoter methylation group, patients with low levels of HSPB11 expression were more sensitive to combined radiochemotherapy than those with high levels of HSPB11 expression, which may explain why some patients with HGG with a methylated MGMT promoter show tolerance to radiochemotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS

HSPB11 was identified as a novel prognostic marker in patients with HGG. Together with MGMT promoter methylation status, HSPB11 expression can predict outcome for patients with HGG and identify those who would most benefit from combined radiochemotherapy.
Calvarial slope affecting accuracy of Ghajar Guide technique for ventricular catheter placement
Authors: Park Jaechan , Son Wonsoo , Park Ki-Su , Kim Min Young , Lee Joomi
Published: November 2015

OBJECT

The Ghajar Guide technique is used to direct a ventricular catheter at a 90° angle to the skull surface at Kocher’s point. However, the human calvaria is not completely spherical. Lateral to the sagittal midline, the calvaria slopes downward with individual variation and thereby affects the accuracy of ventricular catheter placement. Accordingly, the authors investigated the accuracy of the orthogonal catheter trajectory using radiographic simulation and examined the effect of the calvarial slope on this accuracy.

METHODS

A catheter trajectory orthogonal to the skull surface at Kocher’s point and the ideal catheter trajectory to the foramen of Monro were drawn bilaterally on coronal head images of 52 patients with hydrocephalus. The correction angle, the difference between the 2 catheter trajectories, was then measured. Meanwhile, the calvarial slope was measured around Kocher’s point by using a coronal head image. The correlation between the correction angle and factors such as the calvarial slope and bicaudate index was then assessed using a Pearson correlation analysis.

RESULTS

The ventricular catheter trajectory orthogonal to the skull at Kocher’s point in the patients with hydrocephalus led to a catheter trajectory into the ipsilateral (70.2%) or contralateral (29.8%) lateral ventricles. The correction angles ranged from −3.3° to 16.4° (mean ± SD 5.7° ± 3.7°). In 87 (83.7%) head sides, lateral deviation from the orthogonal trajectory was required to approximate the ideal trajectory, and the correction angle ranged from 2.0° to 16.4° (mean 6.7° ± 2.9°). The calvarial slope in the 104 head sides ranged from 15.6° to 32.5° (mean 24.2° ± 3.1°). Pearson correlation analysis revealed a strong positive correlation (r = 0.733) between the calvarial slope and the correction angle.

CONCLUSIONS

The accuracy of ventricular catheter placement using the Ghajar Guide technique is affected primarily by the calvarial slope around Kocher’s point. A radiographic analysis of a preoperative coronal head image can be used to estimate the accuracy of ventricular catheter placement and enable adjustment to approximate the ideal catheter trajectory.
The GNAQ in the haystack: intramedullary meningeal melanocytoma of intermediate grade at T9–10 in a 58-year-old woman
Authors: Hoffmann Michael , Koelsche Christian , Seiz-Rosenhagen Marcel , Mai Sabine , Lohr Frank , Reuss David , Wenz Frederik , Gebhardt Christoffer , Giordano Frank A.
Published: November 2015

Meningeal melanocytomas are rare tumors. They are derived from leptomeningeal melanocytes and predominantly occur along the spine and the posterior fossa. Here, the authors report a case of intramedullary melanocytoma of intermediate grade in a 58-year-old female patient who was initially misdiagnosed with malignant melanoma until mutational analyses of a panel of genes associated with melanotic tumors led to reclassification.
Age-related outcomes following intracranial aneurysm treatment with the Pipeline Embolization Device: a subgroup analysis of the IntrePED registry
Authors: Brinjikji Waleed , Kallmes David F. , Cloft Harry J. , Lanzino Giuseppe
Published: November 2015

OBJECT

The association between age and outcomes following aneurysm treatment with flow diverters such as the Pipeline Embolization Device (PED) have not been well established. Using the International Retrospective Study of the Pipeline Embolization Device (IntrePED) registry, the authors assessed the age-related clinical outcomes of patients undergoing aneurysm embolization with the PED.

METHODS

Patients with unruptured aneurysms in the IntrePED registry were divided into 4 age groups: ≤ 50, 51–60, 61–70, and > 70 years old. The rates of the following postoperative complications were compared between age groups using chi-square tests: spontaneous rupture, intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), ischemic stroke, parent artery stenosis, cranial neuropathy, neurological morbidity, neurological mortality, combined neurological morbidity and mortality, and all-cause mortality. The association between age and these complications was tested in a multivariate logistic regression analysis adjusted for sex, number of PEDs, and aneurysm size, location, and type.

RESULTS

Seven hundred eleven patients with 820 unruptured aneurysms were included in this study. Univariate analysis demonstrated no significant difference in ICH rates across age groups (lowest 1.0% for patients ≤ 50 years old and highest 5.0% for patients > 70 years old, p = 0.097). There was no difference in ischemic stroke rates (lowest 3.6% for patients ≤ 50 years old and highest 6.0% for patients 50–60 years old, p = 0.73). Age > 70 years old was associated with higher rates of neurological mortality; patients > 70 years old had neurological mortality rates of 7.4% compared with 3.3% for patients 61–70 years old, 2.7% for patients 51–60 years old, and 0.5% for patients ≤ 50 years old (p = 0.006). On multivariate logistic regression analysis, increasing age was associated with higher odds of combined neurological morbidity and mortality (odds ratio 1.02, 95% confidence interval 1.00–1.05; p = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Increasing age is associated with higher neurological morbidity and mortality after Pipeline embolization of intracranial aneurysms. However, the overall complication rates of PED treatment in this group of highly selected elderly patients (> 70 years) were acceptably low, suggesting that age alone should not be considered an exclusion criterion when considering treatment of intracranial aneurysms with the PED.
Paraplegia after contrast media application: a transient or devastating rare complication? Case report
Authors: Mielke Dorothee , Kallenberg Kai , Hartmann Marius , Rohde Veit
Published: November 2015

The authors report the case of a 76-year-old man with a spinal dural arteriovenous fistula. The patient suffered from sudden repeated reversible paraplegia after spinal digital subtraction angiography as well as CT angiography. Neurotoxicity of contrast media (CM) is the most probable cause for this repeated short-lasting paraplegia.

Intolerance to toxicity of CM to the vulnerable spinal cord is rare, and probably depends on the individual patient. This phenomenon is transient and can occur after both intraarterial and intravenous CM application.
Platelet-rich plasma stimulates dermal microvascular endothelial cells and adipose derived stem cells after external radiation
Authors: Haubner F. , Muschter D. , Schuster N. , Pohl F. , Ahrens N. , Prantl L. , Gassner H.G.
Published: November 2015

BACKGROUND:

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) products are currently suggested in the treatment of chronic wounds due to possible pro-angiogenic effects. Microvascular compromise represents the major component in radiogenic wound healing complications. The effects of PRP on irradiated cells of the cutaneous wound healing process are still poorly understood.

MATERIAL AND METHODS:

Human dermal microvascular endothelial cells (HDMEC) and human adipose derived stem cells (hASC) were cultured and irradiated with doses of 2 to 12 Gy. PRP was activated, characterized and added to the incubation media in different concentrations after external radiation. Cell count was determined 48 h after radiation using a semi-automated cell counting system. Levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1) in the supernatants of HDMEC and hASC co-cultures were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Non-irradiated hASC and HDMEC served as controls.

RESULTS:

The employed PRP preparations were characterized and contained platelet derived growth factor (PDGF-AB), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), bFGF and high levels of sICAM-1. Addition of PRP to irradiated cultures of HDMEC and hASC prevented profound radiation-induced decline in cell numbers. 10% PRP restored cell numbers to levels of untreated, non-irradiated cultures. Basic FGF expression was decreased significantly in hASC monocultures treated with 10% PRP without external radiation and after irradiation with 6 and 12 Gy. These inhibitory effects of PRP were also observed in HDMEC. In contrast, co-cultures of HDMEC-ASC showed a dose-dependent increase in bFGF expression when treated with 5 or 10% PRP. Doses of 6 and 12 Gy increased IL-6 expression in cultures stimulated with 5% PRP.

CONCLUSIONS:

Use of PRP in co-cultures of hASC and HDMEC restores proliferative defects caused by external radiation probably by induction of bFGF. Under irradiated conditions, PRP might induce pro-inflammatory stimuli which could be beneficial in treatment of chronic wounds where healing processes are defective. Combined use of hASC and PRP products might be helpful in the treatment of radiogenic wounds.
Biocompatibility of a novel zinc stent with a closed-cell-design
Authors: Hiebl Bernhard , Nennig Ernst , Schiestel Stefanie , Kovacs Adalbert , Jung Friedrich , Fischer Harald
Published: November 2015

Biomaterials made of zinc have been widely described to be antioxidative, hypothrombogenic, antiinflammatory and antiproliferative. Additionally in vivo zinc is toxic only in high concentrations and can completely be metabolized in vivo. Due to these properties zinc based vascular stents might be able to reduce the rate of restenosis in comparison to bare metal stents and zinc stents might be also able to limit the foreign body reaction. In the presented study we tested the biocompatibility and degradability of a stent made of zinc and characterized by a closed-cell-design to achieve high opening force and to increase stent stiffness. After 100 days of enzymatic and hydrolytic degradation in 15 ml blood serum (fetal calf serum) a significant loss of weight (1.72 wt% ) was measured. Zinc was compared to other metals in terms of degradation rates. After six weeks of incubation in physiologic sodium chloride solution zinc showed the slowest degradation time, 6 times less than stainless steel and 4 times less than magnesium. In the tests for cytotoxic effects the degraded zinc stent caused no changes in the LDH-release and cell membrane integrity (3T3 cells, mouse fibroblasts) respectively, in the cell activity/proliferation (MTS assay) and in the morphological characteristics of the cells and cell layers in comparison to the control material (polystyrene). Based on these results the tested zinc stent proved to be non-cytotoxic and to be characterized by degradation characteristics which might be advantageous in comparison to magnesium and stainless steel.
Influence of Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate on migration rate and differentiation of human hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (CD34+)
Authors: Manz Patrick , Cadeddu Ron-Patrick , Wilk Matthias , Fischer Johannes C. , Fritz Birgit , Haas Rainer , Wenzel Folker
Published: November 2015

INTRODUCTION:

Phthalates are a group of synthetic plasticizers that are ubiquitous environmental pollutants with toxic and endocrine disrupting characteristics. DEHP is the most commonly used plasticizer in the world and is still applied to stem cell transfusion bags used for storage of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (CD34+ HSPC), which are transferred during stem cell transplantation. Here we examined the effect of DEHP on vitality of CD34+ HSPC as well as stem cell specific properties like migration and differentiation capacity – both important for successful stem cell transplantations.

MATERIAL AND METHODs:

CD34+ HSPC were incubated for 24 h and 72 h with DEHP concentrations ranging from 1 μg/ml to 250 μg/ml. DEHP was diluted in DMSO. Migration rate was analyzed along an SDF-1 α gradient using Transwell migration inserts. Differentiation of CD34+ HSPC was investigated after two weeks in methylcellulose with colony stimulating factors. Apoptosis rate was measured via Annexin V and 7-AAD staining.

RESULTS:

24 h of incubation with 10 μg/ml DEHP led to a significant ( p <  0.01) decrease in migration rate of CD34+ HSPC (70.70% ± 7.53% ) with a minimum migration rate of 48.33% ± 6.72% in relation to control after incubation with 100 μg/ml DEHP for 72 h. Incubation with the highest tested DEHP concentrations (50 and 100 μg/ml) significantly ( p <  0.05) altered colony formation rate and cell type distribution. Apoptosis rate of CD34+ HSPC significantly ( p <  0.05) increased after incubation with concentrations of 10 μg/ml DEHP for 24 h (1.46 ± 0.19) with a maximum apoptosis rate of 2.71 ± 0.66 after 24 h incubation with the highest DEHP concentration (250 μg/ml) in relation to control.

CONCLUSIONS:

As shown, DEHP takes impact on migration rate, apoptosis rate, and differentiation of CD34+ HSPC. As these are functions with an important role in stem cell transplantations, the usage of DEHP-free stem cell transfusion bags should be considered.
Evaluation of multimodality imaging using image fusion with MRI and CEUS in an experimental animal model
Authors: Paprottka P.M. , Zengel P. , Cyran C.C. , Paprottka K.J. , Ingrisch M. , Nikolaou K. , Reiser M.F. , Clevert D.A.
Published: November 2015

PURPOSE:

To evaluate the diagnostic benefits of multimodality imaging using image fusion with magnetic-resonance-imaging (MRI) and contrast-enhanced-ultrasound (CEUS) in an experimental small-animal-squamous-cell-carcinoma-model for the assessment of tissue hemodynamics and morphology.

MATERIAL AND METHODS:

Human hypopharynx-carcinoma-cells were injected subcutaneously into the left flank of 15 female athymic nude rats. After 10 daysof subcutaneous tumor growth, CEUS and MRI measurements were performed using a high-end-ultrasound-system and 3-T-MRI. After successful point-to-point or plan registration, the registered MR-images were simultaneously shown with the respective ultrasound sectional plane. Data evaluation was performed using the digitally stored video sequence data sets by two experienced radiologists using a subjective 5-point scale.

RESULTS:

CEUS and MRI are well-known techniques for the assessment of tissue hemodynamics (score: mean 3.8 ± 0.4 SD and score 3.8 ± 0.4 SD). Real-time image fusion of MRI and CEUS yielded a significant ( p <  0.001) improvement in score (score 4.8 ± 0.4 SD). Reliable detection of small necrotic areas was possible in all animals with necrotic tumors. No significant intraobserver and interobserver variability was detected (kappa coefficient = +1).

CONCLUSION:

Image fusion of MRI and CEUS gives a significant improvement for reliable differentiation between different tumor tissue areas and simplifies investigations by showing the morphology as well as surrounding macro-/microvascularization.