bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
2014 AERA Distinguished Lecture
Authors: Bryk Anthony S.
Published: December 2015

A chasm is growing between our rapidly rising aspirations for our educational systems and what schools can routinely accomplish. Education needs an improvement paradigm—one that recognizes the complexity of the work of education and the wide variability in outcomes that our systems currently produce. This article sketches out such a paradigm. It joins together the discipline of improvement science with the power of structured networked communities to accelerate learning to improve. These networked improvement communities (NICs) combine analytic thinking and systematic methods to develop and test changes that can achieve better outcomes more reliably. NICs are inclusive in drawing together the expertise of practitioners, researchers, designers, technologists, and many others. And they organize their activities in ways akin to a scientific community. They develop practice-based evidence as an essential complement to findings from other forms of educational research. The point is not just to know what can make things better or worse; it is to develop the know-how necessary to actually make things better.
Calcaneal Lengthening for Planovalgus Deformity in Children with Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Ettl Volker , Wollmerstedt Nicole , Kirschner Stephan , Morrison Robert , Pasold Eva , Raab Peter
Published: December 2015

Background: In children with cerebral palsy, planovalgus deformity of the foot is common. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome of calcaneal lengthening for the treatment of planovalgus foot deformity in children with cerebral palsy. Materials and Methods: We reviewed 19 children (28 feet) treated between 1996 and 2004 in our institution. There were 14 ambulating (19 feet) and 5 nonambulating children (9 feet). The average age of the children at time of surgery was 8.6 years. Followup averaged 4.3 years. Results: We found satisfactory results in 75% of the feet clinically and in 79% radiologically according to Mosca's criteria. We saw no overcorrection but a relapse of the deformity in seven cases. There were six unsatisfactory radiological results, two (out of 19) in the ambulating and four (out of nine) in the nonambulating group. Ambulating children had a significantly better clinical and radiological outcome than nonambulating children ( p = 0.042). A significant correlation was found between Ankle-hindfoot Score and clinical result according to Mosca's criteria ( p = 0.001). Conclusion: In ambulatory children with cerebral palsy calcaneal lengthening is an effective procedure for the correction of mild to moderate planovalgus foot deformities. In nonambulatory children with severe plano-valgus deformities of the foot, calcaneal lengthening cannot be recommended because of the high relapse rate in these patients.
Variability of Joint Communications in the Foot and Ankle Demonstrated by Contrast-Enhanced Diagnostic Injections
Authors: Carmont Michael R. , Tomlinson James E. , Blundell Chris , Davies Mark B. , Moore David J.
Published: December 2015

Background: The history and physical examination will usually direct a surgeon to the correct site of joint pathology. Imaging with plain radiographs and diagnostic injections help localize joint pathology more precisely. The presence of accessory communications between adjacent joints may reduce the sensitivity of these investigations. Material and Methods: We report on the findings of 389 arthrograms of the midfoot, hindfoot and ankle that were performed by a single radiologist over a 7-year period. Fluoroscopic guidance with radioopaque dye was used to confirm needle position before local anesthetic was injected. Images were closely studied to identify any communication between adjacent joints. Results: The passage of contrast into adjacent joints confirmed the presence of an additional communication. In 13.9% of cases there was a communication between the ankle and subtalar joint. A communication between the talonavicular and the calcaneocuboid joint was observed in 42.3% of local injections. We identified previously unreported communications between the anterior subtalar and the naviculocunieform joints (8%), the anterior subtalar and the calcaneocuboid joints (9%) and the naviculocunieform and tarsometatarsal joints (1.1%). Conclusion: This study reinforces the typical incidence of known joint communications, describes previously unreported communications and highlights the importance of these communications particularly with the small joints of the midfoot. The possible presence of accessory communications must always be considered when performing isolated midfoot fusions relying upon diagnostic local anesthetic injections.
MOJE Ceramic Metatarsophalangeal Arthroplasty: Disappointing Clinical Results at Two to Eight Years
Authors: Dawson-Bowling Sebastian , Adimonye Anthony , Cohen Adam , Cottam Howard , Ritchie James , Fordyce Michael
Published: December 2015

Background: Among the surgical treatment options for osteoarthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) are a number of different designs of total arthroplasty, including the MOJE, a ceramic press fit arthroplasty. We present a 2- to 8-year followup of 31 procedures. Methods: Thirty-two MOJE arthroplasties were undertaken for painful hallux rigidus in 30 patients (nine male, 21 female) over 6 years (mean age 61.9; range, 37 to 76). At followup patients' symptoms, levels of function and radiographs were scored using SF-36, modified Kitaoka and AOFAS systems. Followup rate was 97%, with mean followup time 58 months (range, 28 to 97). Results: Mean scores were: Kitaoka 53.8 (15 to 75), AOFAS 61.3/100 (range, 18 to 100), SF-36 physical combined 48.6 (27.6 to 58.7) SF-36 mental score 52.2 (19.5 to 62.2). Sixteen showed radiological evidence of component loosening (either lucency, subsidence or both) and one radiograph revealed component fracture. Eight implants have been revised. In patients who had not undergone subsequent fusion, 15 had less than 36 degrees of movement, nine had 36 to 45 degrees, four were in the 46 to 60 range, and only one had more than 60 degrees. There were no infections. Conclusion: Although previous studies have suggested favorable initial outcomes with the MOJE prosthesis, all have focused only on the early results. In our series, the reoperation rate of 26% at up to 8 years is worryingly high, especially given that 16 (52%) showed loosening. Although there appears to be a cohort of patients who have satisfactory outcomes with the MOJE, we would suggest that these results do not support the continued use of this implant.

Level of Evidence: IV, Retrospective Case Series
Radiologic Changes of Ankle Joint after Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Lee Jung Hee , Jeong Bi O
Published: December 2015

Background:

The authors noticed that ankle joint osteoarthritis was not uncommon when lower extremity malalignment, such as a knee varus deformity, was present as a result of severe osteoarthritis of the knee. The purpose of this study was to analyze radiologic changes of the ankle joint after total knee arthroplasty.

Methods:

This study included 142 cases in 110 patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty and were followed for at least 3 years. The varus knee group included 128 cases and the valgus knee group included 14 cases. On anteroposterior standing lower extremity radiographs, varus and valgus angles of the knee were measured preoperatively and at the last follow-up. The angle between the ground surface and the distal tibial plafond as well as the upper talus was also measured. In addition, tibial anterior surface angle, talar tilt, space between the medial malleolar distal tip and the medial articular surface of the talus, and medial tibiotalar joint space of the ankle joint were measured.

Results:

Out of 142 cases, 50 (35.2%) had arthritis in the ankle before total knee arthroplasty and 31 (21.8%) had newly developed or progressive arthritis after surgery. In particular, the varus knee group demonstrated statistically significant differences in preoperative varus deformity, preoperative talar tilt, and postoperative correction angle between the cases that developed or had progressive arthritis and those that did not show any changes ( p < .05).

Conclusions:

After total knee arthroplasty, arthritis developed or progressed in the ankle of many cases radiographically. In particular, when the preoperative talar tilt increased medial to the ankle or the postoperative correction angle was large, the incidence of arthritis in the ankle joint increased. The authors recommend more cautious follow-up on the symptoms of the ankle joint after total knee arthroplasty. Level of Evidence: III, Retrospective Study
Immediate Weight Bearing after Modified Percutaneous Achilles Tendon Repair
Authors: Chandrakant Vishal , Lozano-Calderon Santiago , McWilliam James
Published: December 2015

Background:

Controversy exists regarding postoperative treatment of Achilles tendon repair. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results of immediate weight bearing following modified percutaneous Achilles tendon repair using readily available materials.

Methods:

Fifty-two patients who were treated at a single center from 2000 to 2009 underwent percutaneous Achilles tendon repair by a single surgeon and were allowed immediate weight bearing. They were followed for on average of 2 years postoperatively and evaluated with functional and subjective outcomes.

Results:

The average American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle-hindfoot scale was 96 points (range, 81 to 100), with 95% confidence interval ranging from 89.1 to 102.9. Subjective evaluation demonstrated that 47 patients (90%) were able to return to a desired level of activity, with an overall complication rate of 11.5%.

Conclusion:

Immediate weight bearing after percutaneous Achilles tendon repair had a low overall complication rate with good clinical and functional outcomes. Level of Evidence: IV, Retrospective Case Series
Low-Energy Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy to Treat Lesser Metatarsal Fracture Nonunion: Case Report
Authors: Silk Zacharia M. , Alhuwaila Raju S. , Calder James D.
Published: December 2015

Level of Evidence: V, Case Report
Minimally Invasive Forefoot Surgery: A Cadaveric Study
Authors: Dhukaram Vivekanandan , Chapman Anna Prasthofer , Upadhyay Piyush Kumar
Published: December 2015

Background:

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) aims to improve cosmesis and minimize soft tissue disruption by using small skin incisions. When using MIS in the forefoot, there is concern about iatrogenic neurovascular and tendon damage. The aim of this anatomical study was to assess the risk of iatrogenic injury while performing MIS techniques.

Methods:

Ten normal cadaveric feet were used. All of the procedures were performed in a cadaveric lab using a mini-C-arm by two surgeons: a consultant who has attended a cadaveric MIS training course but does not perform MIS in his regular practice (eight feet) and a registrar (resident) who was supervised by the same consultant (two feet). In each foot, the surgeon performed a lateral release, a minimally invasive chevron and Akin (MICA) procedure for the correction of hallux valgus, and a minimally invasive distal metatarsal extra-articular osteotomy (DMO). Each foot was then dissected to identify any neurovascular or tendon injury and photographed.

Results:

The dorsal medial cutaneous and the plantar interdigital nerves were intact in all specimens. There was no apparent damage to the arterial plexus supplying the first metatarsal head. No flexor or extensor tendon injuries were identified. On examination of the osteotomies, the cuts were found not to be in the desired plane. In both MICA and DMO, the dissection also revealed some intact soft tissue at the osteotomy site, which may preserve vascularity and add stability to the osteotomy.

Conclusions:

Although there has been concern regarding neurovascular and tendon injury, the findings were consistent with minimal risk, which is consistent with reports in the literature. This study also reflects the challenges associated with performing the osteotomy in the desired plane, which may be related to the learning curve.

Clinical Relevance:

This cadaveric study has demonstrated a minimal risk of neurovascular and tendon injury associated with minimally invasive techniques in the forefoot. However, the study emphasizes the need for excellent three-dimensional anatomy and suggests additional cadaveric training prior to attempting these techniques in clinical practice.
Prospective, multidisciplinary recording of perioperative errors in cerebrovascular surgery: is error in the eye of the beholder?
Authors: Michalak Suzanne M. , Rolston John D. , Lawton Michael T.
Published: December 2015

OBJECT

Surgery requires careful coordination of multiple team members, each playing a vital role in mitigating errors. Previous studies have focused on eliciting errors from only the attending surgeon, likely missing events observed by other team members.

METHODS

Surveys were administered to the attending surgeon, resident surgeon, anesthesiologist, and nursing staff immediately following each of 31 cerebrovascular surgeries; participants were instructed to record any deviation from optimal course (DOC). DOCs were categorized and sorted by reporter and perioperative timing, then correlated with delays and outcome measures.

RESULTS

Errors were recorded in 93.5% of the 31 cases surveyed. The number of errors recorded per case ranged from 0 to 8, with an average of 3.1 ± 2.1 errors (± SD). Overall, technical errors were most common (24.5%), followed by communication (22.4%), management/judgment (16.0%), and equipment (11.7%). The resident surgeon reported the most errors (52.1%), followed by the circulating nurse (31.9%), the attending surgeon (26.6%), and the anesthesiologist (14.9%). The attending and resident surgeons were most likely to report technical errors (52% and 30.6%, respectively), while anesthesiologists and circulating nurses mostly reported anesthesia errors (36%) and communication errors (50%), respectively. The overlap in reported errors was 20.3%. If this study had used only the surveys completed by the attending surgeon, as in prior studies, 72% of equipment errors, 90% of anesthesia and communication errors, and 100% of nursing errors would have been missed. In addition, it would have been concluded that errors occurred in only 45.2% of cases (rather than 93.5%) and that errors resulting in a delay occurred in 3.2% of cases instead of the 74.2% calculated using data from 4 team members. Compiled results from all team members yielded significant correlations between technical DOCs and prolonged hospital stays and reported and actual delays (p = 0.001 and p = 0.028, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

This study is the only of its kind to elicit error reporting from multiple members of the operating team, and it demonstrates error is truly in the eye of the beholder—the types and timing of perioperative errors vary based on whom you ask. The authors estimate that previous studies surveying only the attending physician missed up to 75% of perioperative errors. By finding significant correlations between technical DOCs and prolonged hospital stays and reported and actual delays, this study shows that these surveys provide relevant and useful information for improving clinical practice. Overall, the results of this study emphasize that research on medical error must include input from all members of the operating team; it is only by understanding every perspective that surgical staff can begin to efficiently prevent errors, improve patient care and safety, and decrease delays.
Hemodynamic and morphological characteristics of unruptured posterior communicating artery aneurysms with oculomotor nerve palsy
Authors: Lv Nan , Yu Ying , Xu Jinyu , Karmonik Christof , Liu Jianmin , Huang Qinghai
Published: December 2015

OBJECT

Unruptured posterior communicating artery (PCoA) aneurysms with oculomotor nerve palsy (ONP) have a very high risk of rupture. This study investigated the hemodynamic and morphological characteristics of intracranial aneurysms with high rupture risk by analyzing PCoA aneurysms with ONP.

METHODS

Fourteen unruptured PCoA aneurysms with ONP, 33 ruptured PCoA aneurysms, and 21 asymptomatic unruptured PCoA aneurysms were included in this study. The clinical, morphological, and hemodynamic characteristics were compared among the different groups.

RESULTS

The clinical characteristics did not differ among the 3 groups (p > 0.05), whereas the morphological and hemodynamic analyses showed that size, aspect ratio, size ratio, undulation index, nonsphericity index, ellipticity index, normalized wall shear stress (WSS), and percentage of low WSS area differed significantly (p < 0.05) among the 3 groups. Furthermore, multiple comparisons revealed that these parameters differed significantly between the ONP group and the asymptomatic unruptured group and between the ruptured group and the asymptomatic unruptured group, except for size, which differed significantly only between the ONP group and the asymptomatic unruptured group (p = 0.0005). No morphological or hemodynamic parameters differed between the ONP group and the ruptured group.

CONCLUSIONS

Unruptured PCoA aneurysms with ONP demonstrated a distinctive morphological-hemodynamic pattern that was significantly different compared with asymptomatic unruptured PCoA aneurysms and was similar to ruptured PCoA aneurysms. The larger size, more irregular shape, and lower WSS might be related to the high rupture risk of PCoA aneurysms.
Comparison of computer-assisted planning and manual planning for depth electrode implantations in epilepsy
Authors: Nowell Mark , Sparks Rachel , Zombori Gergely , Miserocchi Anna , Rodionov Roman , Diehl Beate , Wehner Tim , Baio Gianluca , Trevisi Gianluca , Tisdall Martin , Ourselin Sebastien , McEvoy Andrew W. , Duncan John
Published: December 2015

OBJECT

The objective of this study was to evaluate the clinical utility of multitrajectory computer-assisted planning software (CAP) to plan stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG) electrode arrangements.

METHODS

A cohort of 18 patients underwent SEEG for evaluation of epilepsy at a single center between August 2013 and August 2014. Planning of electrodes was performed manually and stored using EpiNav software. CAP was developed as a planning tool in EpiNav. The user preselects a set of cerebral targets and optimized trajectory constraints, and then runs an automated search of potential scalp entry points and associated trajectories. Each trajectory is associated with metrics for a safety profile, derived from the minimal distance to vascular structures, and an efficacy profile, derived from the proportion of depth electrodes that are within or adjacent to gray matter. CAP was applied to the cerebral targets used in the cohort of 18 previous manually planned implantations to generate new multitrajectory implantation plans. A comparison was then undertaken for trajectory safety and efficacy.

RESULTS

CAP was applied to 166 electrode targets in 18 patients. There were significant improvements in both the safety profile and efficacy profile of trajectories generated by CAP compared with manual planning (p < 0.05). Three independent neurosurgeons assessed the feasibility of the trajectories generated by CAP, with 131 (78.9%) of 166 trajectories deemed suitable for implementation in clinical practice. CAP was performed in real time, with a median duration of 8 minutes for each patient, although this does not include the time taken for data preparation.

CONCLUSIONS

CAP is a promising tool to plan SEEG implantations. CAP provides feasible depth electrode arrangements, with quantitatively greater safety and efficacy profiles, and with a substantial reduction in duration of planning within the 3D multimodality framework.
Phase-contrast magnetic resonance imaging reveals net retrograde aqueductal flow in idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus
Authors: Ringstad Geir , Emblem Kyrre Eeg , Eide Per Kristian
Published: December 2015

OBJECT

The objective of this study was to assess the net aqueductal stroke volume (ASV) and CSF aqueductal flow rate derived from phase-contrast MRI (PC-MRI) in patients with probable idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) before and after ventriculoperitoneal shunt surgery, and to compare observations with intracranial pressure (ICP) scores.

METHODS

PC-MRI at the level of the sylvian aqueduct was undertaken in patients undergoing assessment for probable iNPH. Aqueductal flow in the craniocaudal direction was defined as positive, or antegrade flow, and net ASV was calculated by subtracting retrograde from antegrade aqueductal flow. Aqueductal flow rate per minute was calculated by multiplying net ASV by heart rate. During the same hospital admission, clinical examination was performed using NPH score and overnight continuous ICP monitoring. Twelve patients were followed prospectively 12 months after shunt placement with clinical assessment and a second PC-MRI. The study also included 2 healthy controls.

RESULTS

Among 21 patients examined for iNPH, 17 (81%) received a shunt (shunt group), and 4 were treated conservatively (conservative group). Among the patients with shunts, a clinical improvement was observed in 16 (94%) of the 17. Net ASV was negative in 16 (76%) of 21 patients before shunt placement and in 5 (42%) of 12 patients after shunt placement, and increased from a median of −5 μl (range −175 to 27 μl) to a median of 1 μl (range −61 to 30 μl; p = 0.04). Among the 12 patients with PC-MRI after shunt placement, 11 were shunt responders, and in 9 of these 11 either a reduced magnitude of retrograde aqueductal flow, or a complete reversal from retrograde to antegrade flow, occurred. Net ASV was significantly lower in the shunt group than in the conservative group (p = 0.01). The aqueductal flow rate increased from −0.56 ml/min (range −12.78 to 0.58 ml/min) to 0.06 ml/min (range −4.51 to 1.93 ml/min; p = 0.04) after shunt placement.

CONCLUSIONS

In this cohort of patients with iNPH, retrograde net aqueductal flow was observed in 16 (76%) of 21 patients. It was reversed toward the antegrade direction after shunt placement either by magnitude or completely in 9 (75%) of 12 patients examined using PC-MRI both before and after shunt placement (p = 0.04); 11 of the 12 were shunt responders. The study results question previously established concepts with respect to both CSF circulation pathways and CSF formation rate.
Risk factors for worsened muscle strength after the surgical treatment of arteriovenous malformations of the eloquent motor area
Authors: Lin Fuxin , Zhao Bing , Wu Jun , Wang Lijun , Jin Zhen , Cao Yong , Wang Shuo
Published: December 2015

OBJECT

Case selection for the surgical treatment of arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) of the eloquent motor area remains challenging. The aim of this study was to determine the risk factors for worsened muscle strength after surgery in patients with this disorder.

METHODS

At their hospital the authors retrospectively studied 48 consecutive patients with AVMs involving motor cortex and/or the descending pathway. All patients had undergone preoperative functional MRI (fMRI) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), followed by resection. Both functional and angioarchitectural factors were analyzed with respect to the change in muscle strength. Functional factors included lesion-to-corticospinal tract distance (LCD) on DTI and lesion-to-activation area distance (LAD) and cortical reorganization on fMRI. Based on preoperative muscle strength, the changes in muscle strength at 1 week and 6 months after surgery were defined as short-term and long-term surgical outcomes, respectively. Statistical analysis was performed using the statistical package SPSS (version 20.0.0, IBM Corp.).

RESULTS

Twenty-one patients (43.8%) had worsened muscle strength 1 week after surgery. However, only 10 patients (20.8%) suffered from muscle strength worsening 6 months after surgery. The LCD was significantly correlated with short-term (p < 0.001) and long-term (p < 0.001) surgical outcomes. For long-term outcomes, patients in the 5 mm ≥ LCD > 0 mm (p = 0.009) and LCD > 5 mm (p < 0.001) categories were significantly associated with a lower risk of permanent motor worsening in comparison with patients in the LCD = 0 mm group. No significant difference was found between patients in the 5 mm ≥ LCD > 0 mm group and LCD > 5 mm group (p = 0.116). Nidus size was the other significant predictor of short-term (p = 0.021) and long-term (p = 0.016) outcomes. For long-term outcomes, the area under the ROC curve (AUC) was 0.728, and the cutoff point was 3.6 cm. Spetzler-Martin grade was not associated with short-term surgical outcomes (0.143), although it was correlated with long-term outcomes (0.038).

CONCLUSIONS

An AVM with a nidus in contact with tracked eloquent fibers (LCD = 0) and having a large size is more likely to be associated with worsened muscle strength after surgery in patients with eloquent motor area AVMs. Surgical treatment in these patients should be carefully considered. In patients with an LCD > 5 mm, radical resection may be considered to eliminate the risk of hemorrhage.
A biomechanical comparison of 3 different posterior fixation techniques for 2-level lumbar spinal disorders
Authors: Liu Fubing , Feng Zhenzhou , Liu Tianze , Fei Qinming , Jiang Chun , Li Yuanchao , Jiang Xiaoxing , Dong Jian
Published: December 2015

OBJECT

This study sought to make a biomechanical comparison of 3 different posterior fixation techniques for 2-level lumbar spinal disorders.

METHODS

Eight fresh-frozen human cadaver lumbar spines (4 from L-1 to L-5, 4 from L-1 to S-1) were tested by applying pure moments of ± 8 Nm. Each specimen was first tested intact, and then the left facetectomies of L3–4 and L4–5 were performed to establish an unstable condition without removal of discs. Three instrumentation systems were then tested randomly: unilateral pedicle screw (UPS), UPS with contralateral translaminar facet screw (UPSFS), and bilateral pedicle screw (BPS). The range of motion (ROM) and the neutral zone (NZ) of L3–5 were measured.

RESULTS

All fixation types could reduce the ROM of L3–5 significantly in flexion, extension, and lateral bending, compared with the intact state. In axial torsion, only BPS reduced the ROM significantly, compared with the intact state. The UPSFS technique provided intermediate stability, which was superior to the UPS in flexion-extension and lateral bending, and inferior to the BPS in lateral bending. Compared with the intact state, the NZs decreased significantly for UPS, UPSFS, and BPS in flexion-extension, while not significantly in lateral bending and axial torsion.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, among the 3 fixation techniques, BPS offered the highest stability, UPSFS provided intermediate stability, and UPS was the least stable for 2-level lumbar spinal disorders. UPSFS appeared to be able to offer a less invasive choice than BPS in well-selected patients with 2-level lumbar spinal disorders.
Far caudally migrated extraforaminal lumbosacral disc herniation treated by a microsurgical lateral extraforaminal transmuscular approach: case report
Authors: Tschugg Anja , Tschugg Sebastian , Hartmann Sebastian , Rhomberg Paul , Thomé Claudius
Published: December 2015

A 33-year-old man presented with moderate low-back pain and L-5 radiculopathy that progressed to severe paresis of L-5. On initial imaging, a corresponding spinal lesion was overlooked. Further CT and contrast-enhanced MRI demonstrated a presacral mass along the L-5 root far extraforaminally. A herniated disc was suspected, but with standard imaging a schwannoma could not be ruled out. The presacral L-5 root was explored via a microsurgical lateral extraforaminal transmuscular approach. To the best of the authors' knowledge, there have been no reports of sequestered extraforaminal lumbosacral disc herniations that herniated into the presacral region.
Cord Blood-Derived Quiescent CD34+ Cells Are More Transcriptionally Matched to AML Blasts Than Cytokine-Induced Normal Human Hematopoietic CD34+ Cells
Authors: Munje Chinmay , Hills Robert K. , Whetton Anthony , Burnett Alan K. , Darley Richard L. , Tonks Alex
Published: December 2015

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is characterized by developmental arrest, which is thought to arise from transcriptional dysregulation of myeloid development programs. Hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) isolated from human blood are frequently used as a normal comparator in
AML studies. Previous studies have reported changes in the transcriptional program of genes involved in proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and homing when HSPCs were expanded ex vivo. The intrinsic functional differences between quiescent and dividing CD34+ HSPCs prompted
us to determine whether fresh or cytokine-induced cord blood-derived CD34+ HSPCs are a more appropriate normal control compared to AML blasts. Based on principal component analysis and gene expression profiling we demonstrate that CD34+ HSPCs that do not undergo ex vivo
expansion are transcriptionally similar to minimally differentiated AML blasts. This was confirmed by comparing the cell cycle status of the AML blasts and the HSPCs. We suggest that freshly isolated CD34+ HSPCs that do not undergo ex vivo expansion would serve as a better control
to identify novel transcriptional targets in the AML blast population.
Rapid Growth and Density of Liquor Licenses in A Heritage Tourism Destination: Charleston's Emerging "entertainment District"
Authors: Litvin Stephen W. , Wofford Ellison B. , Smith Wayne W.
Published: December 2015

The research that follows addresses issues related to the nighttime economy and the rapid proliferation of bars along a section of a tourism-oriented city's main street. A decade ago, locals did not frequent this area, it was of no interest to tourists, and the neighborhood was regarded
as a place where one would not want to walk, especially at night. However, with the area's recent and rapid transformation to the nightlife center of the city, new issues have arisen that are of concern to city government officials. This article considers, via a qualitative approach, the effects
the burgeoning nighttime economy has had, and may have, on residents, other businesses, and the community as a whole.
Copper-catalyzed stereoselective conjugate addition of alkylboranes to alkynoates
Authors: Wakamatsu Takamichi , Nagao Kazunori , Ohmiya Hirohisa , Sawamura Masaya
Published: December 2015

A copper-catalyzed conjugate addition of alkylboron compounds (alkyl-9-BBN, prepared by hydroboration of alkenes with 9-BBN-H) to alkynoates to form β-disubstituted acrylates is reported. The addition occurred in a formal syn-hydroalkylation mode. The syn stereoselectivity was excellent regardless of the substrate structure. A variety of functional groups were compatible with the conjugate addition.
Some Aspects of Term of Decontamination Perception on Both National and Alliance Levels
Authors: Otřísal Pavel
Published: December 2015

The classification of a term of "decontamination" comes out not only from the Alliance norms, national military regulations and publications, but also from the documents that deal with the conception of decontamination for civilian purposes, i.e. from documents of the Fire Rescue Brigades of the Czech Republic. The study of both Alliance and national documents has proved that in many cases this term is being introduced in a different way which might cause not very homogenous interpretation and understanding to accomplished decontamination measurements and thus even overall disunity in a framework not only of Alliance, but also in selected basic and other parts of the Integrated Rescue System of the Czech Republic. The paper analyses approaches to the term of "decontamination"practically only by means of definitions in use nowadays. At the end of this document there are recommendations which ought be considered by the management of the Czech Armed Forces Chemical Corps within the area of its respective interest.
Modern Tools for Monitoring and Evaluating the Vehicles Efficiency in Operation
Authors: Mikuš Erik , Zajíček Václav
Published: December 2015

This article aims to explain possibilities of using modern evaluation tools of operational effectiveness for managers in the ACR. Ground military vehicles operations are an important aspect of each organizational unit within the ACR. For its realization is necessary to have adequate sources. The authors reviewed current traditional approaches to evaluate the operation effectiveness of ground military equipments. They focused on the role and abilities of transport commanders and executives. This research presents the methods to identify the causes of excessive fuel consumption. The selected vehicle was analysed for exceeding the consumption norm of 270 litters. The primary cause of passing established limits were idle running vehicle's engine and unusual decrease in fuel.
Preparion of Commanders in the Czech Armed Forces
Authors: Zona Pavel , Zůna Pavel
Published: December 2015

The article follows the leading theme of the Czech Military Review No. 2/2013 dealing with the application White Paper on Defence 2011. Both authors are members of the Lifelong Learning Department, Defence University, Brno. Backed by long experiences in military professional education and training, they present their views on advantages and disadvantages of the current model of officers' professional preparation, particularly senior officers. The authors' aim is to arouse a constructive debate about the changes in the current model of senior officers' career education. Their views are based upon history examples and models of some selected NATO nations.
Armament of Mechanized Force: Keeping on BVP-2 and the Vision of Development
Authors: Zetocha Karel
Published: December 2015

The article is an analysis of the further development of mechanized battalions of Czech forces (ACR). The defence department will have to take a major decision how to replace old tracked infantry combat vehicles (ICVs) BVP-2. Several years ago, it was decided to acquire those vehicles for one brigade, so the best option could be to keep this project on. The acquisition and simultaneous operations of two similar vehicles, wheeled and tracked ones, are not effective for forces of ACR size. The extra costs of operation would not produce an adequate increase in capabilities of mechanized units. The author presents dozens of arguments to support this conclusion and at the end he makes recommendations for the future acquisition strategy in Czech defence department.
Priorities for 21st Century: U.S. Security Strategy after 2008
Authors: Kufčák Jakub
Published: December 2015

The re-election of Barrack Obama implies that the President preferring political solutions to military ones will have remained for the next four years in the White House. As far U. S. strategy culture is concerned, without doubts American armed forces are going to be prepared to be modern, strong, agile and capable to meet the U.S. National Security strategy goals whatever and wherever they might be. Simultaneously, Obama´s programme for his second term presupposes to close down several military bases all around the world, together with reductions in the size of forces, manpower. Only the most important will be preserved. The further development will be therefore predestined by necessary quantitative reductions, but at the same time by qualitative updating American armed forces, and by the stress on power projection capabilities to take an active approach to counter any threats worldwide.
Evidence of Artillery Ammunition Ballistic Characteristics Using Barcodes within an Automated Artillery Fire Control System
Authors: Šilinger Karel , Blaha Martin , Potužák Ladislav
Published: December 2015

This article contains the essence of the modular part of an automated artillery fire control system, which will enable automated detection of artillery ammunition ballistic characteristics using barcodes placed on missiles and cartridges. The article describes the current state of evidence of artillery ammunition ballistic characteristics, presents possible approaches to the concept of evidence of artillery ammunition ballistic characteristics using barcodes, defines the framework requirements for the automation of this part of artillery fire ballistics preparation, describes the determination of the distance individual corrections resulting from the artillery ammunition ballistic characteristics and states possible ways to automated processing overview of artillery ammunition carried by the conveyors of missiles and cartridges.
La défense sociale pour les aliénés délinquants en Belgique : le soin comme légitimation d’un dispositif de contrôle ?
Authors: Cartuyvels Yves , Cliquennois Gaëtan
Published: December 2015

La Belgique connaît depuis 1930 un régime légal spécifique de prise en charge des “aliénés délinquants”. Fruit d’un compromis entre partisans de l’école néo-classique et promoteurs de la criminologie positiviste, la loi de défense sociale de 1930 vient compléter le Code pénal belge de 1867 et organise, à ses marges, un régime d’internement à durée indéterminée pour ces « anormaux » qui comptent parmi les figures de la dangerosité à l’époque. L’article se propose de revenir sur les origines de cette loi, son contenu et ses évolutions (y compris toutes récentes), dans une perspective de la longue durée. Cette approche permet de souligner les continuités et discontinuités dans le traitement pénal de la folie criminelle et de la dangerosité qui lui est associée sur environ un siècle. Elle est en outre complétée par la présentation de résultats de recherches empiriques récentes consacrées à quelques issues-clés du régime de défense sociale depuis ses débuts : le régime de prise en charge des aliénés délinquants, entre soin et sécurité ; la question de l’évaluation de la dangerosité ou le problème de l’expertise ; la trajectoire des internés délinquants et leur régime de libération, dominés de manière croissante par un paradigme de réduction des risques.
Canadian fossil ostracoda, some silurian species
Authors: Copeland M J
Published: December 2015

Research on certain Silurian faunas from eastern and Arctic Canada has revealed the presence of several well-preserved and diversified Ostracoda. These include numerous new and previously recorded species.
Silurian Brachiopods and Gastropods of southern New Brunswick
Authors: Boucot A J , Johnson J G , Harper C , Walmsley V G
Published: December 2015

Shelly faunas of southern New Brunswick and the adjacent part of Maine s pan a considerable portion of Silurian time. The succession comprises a lower fauna, relatively rich in genera and species of Upper Llandovery and Wenlock age; a middle shelly fauna,
relatively poor in genera and species characterized by an abundance of Salopi11a, rhynchonellids, and H owe/l e /la of Wenlock or Ludlow age; and an upper fauna. Sparse and poorly dated but occurring near the Silurian-Devonian boundary. The total fauna, described and figured, is assigned to 37
existing genera.
Reconnaissance of the surficial geology of northeastern Ellesmere Island, Arctic Archipelago
Authors: Christie R L
Published: December 2015

Glacial features and deposits such as erratics, grooves, and till are abundant in northeastern Ellesmere Island. Distinctive erratics and striae indicate a general outward movement of ice from the high mountains of the island with a limited incursion of Greenland
ice onto the eastern shores. Glacio-fluvial gravel and sand is widespread, and certain enigmatic 'boulder gravel hills' may be related. Thick marine and lacustrine silt deposits form conspicuous benches and badlands. A post-glacial marine inundation of at least 250 feet is indicated by marine
shells. Some interesting permafrost and ground-ice structures and the existing glacial ice and ice shelves are described. A synthesis of the glacial retreat for the region is attempted. Most of the deposits formed during a period of rapid deglacierization and marine incursion. A relatively warm
period, the Climatic Optimum, followed in which beds bearing vegetal matter were deposited. During a succeeding, fairly recent, cold period, the glaciers advanced slightly and the ice shelves formed.
Ordovician Ostracoda from Lake Timiskaming, Ontario
Authors: Copeland M J
Published: December 2015

More than seventy species of ostracods were obtained from the Middle Ordovician Liskeard Formation at Lake Timiskaming, Ontario. Lithologically and palaeontologically, exposed strata of this formation may be subdivided into an upper and a lower unit, respectively
of Trenton and Wilderness age.
Studies of rock-forming micas
Authors: Rimsaite J H Y
Published: December 2015

Mineralogical and petrological studies of forty-eight mica concentrates and of their host rocks were carried out in order to establish the relationship between the chemical composition of fresh micas and the following physical properties: optical and X-ray
diffraction properties, specific gravity and specific magnetic susceptibility, and stability on heating. This relationship is illustrated in fifteen working curves. The chemical composition of mica is related to the type of host rock, sequence of crystallization, and associated minerals. A special
emphasis is placed on rocks containing more than one generation of micas.
Ferromagnesian Silicate minerals in the Metamorphosed Iron - Formation of Wabush Lake and Adjacent Areas, Newfoundland and Quebec
Authors: Chakraborty K L
Published: December 2015

The Wabush iron-formation is metamorphosed Precambrian ferruginous sediment in the southern part of the Labrador geosyncline. The whole formation is divided into three main lithological unit s (oxide iron-formation, silicate iron-formation, and carbonate
iron-formation) on the basis of min era l assemblage. A large number of ferromagnesian and lime silicate minerals, such as anthophyllite, cummingtonite, manganoan- cummingtonite, hypersthene, diopside, actinolite, and garnet have been formed in these rocks by metamorphic reactions. The chemical and
optical properties and modes of occurrence of these mineral s have been studied, and their identifications confirmed by X-ray studies. Siderite and dolomite are the pre dominant t y pes of carbon ate in these rocks. Variations in chemical composition of cummingtonites in different iron formations
apparently indicate differences in primary chemical com position of the sediments. The relationship of the anthophyllite, cummingtonite, and manga noan-cummingtonite minerals is established. Anthophyllite and cummingtonite are proven to be two different series with limited isomorphism. Manga
noan-cummingtonite h as monoclinic symmetry, but its chemical composition and optical properties are more similar to anthophyllite with orthorhombic symmetrythan to the cummingtonite- grunerite series. Paragenesis of the silicate min era ls was deduced from their chemical composition and textural
relationship . Results of this stud y suggest that the iron-formation was metamorphosed isochemically with a minimum possible migration of material, and has reached the epidote-amphibolite facies or garnet-staurolite zone of metamorphism. Manganese-bearing anthophyllite and manganoan-cummingtonite
are evidently the source of secondary manganese in the iron ores of this region.
Accuracy of diagnosis of solid pseudopapillary tumor of the pancreas on fine needle aspiration: A multi-institution experience of ten cases
Authors: Jahangir Sidra , Loya Asif , Siddiqui Momin T. , Akhter Noreen , Yusuf Muhammed Aasim
Published: December 2015

Introduction:

Solid pseudopapillary tumor of the pancreas (SPTP) is a neoplasm of uncertain origin and indolent biologic behavior with distinctive morphological features occurring predominantly in young women. This tumor has an excellent prognosis compared to neuroendocrine and acinar cell carcinoma, which are close differential diagnoses based on morphology, hence making it crucial to diagnose SPTP correctly.

Objectives:

To discuss the cytomorphological features of 10 cases of SPTP reported in two institutions and to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) guided fine needle aspiration (FNA) cytology in establishing the diagnosis of SPTP.

Methods:

Ten diagnosed cases of SPTP were retrieved from the computerized endoscopy and pathology databases of our two tertiary care institutions. Nine patients had subsequent histological follow-up available. Eight patients underwent EUS-FNA while one patient each had ultrasound and computed tomography-guided FNA. The rapid on-site evaluation was carried out in all 10 cases, and additional material was retained for cell block preparation. Immunohistochemical (IHC) stains ranging from synaptophysin, progesterone receptor, chromogranin, β-catenin, CD10, and NSE were applied on cell blocks. Histological sections of all resected specimens were reviewed, and findings were correlated with those obtained by FNA.

Results:

Adequate material was obtained in all ten cases. IHC stains helped to confirm the cytological impression of SPTP. Histological examination of resection specimens, available in 9/10 cases, confirmed the cytological diagnosis.

Conclusions:

FNA particularly that obtained with EUS guidance is an effective tool in the accurate diagnosis of SPTP.
Spectral Theory and Weyl Functions
Authors: Behrndt Jussi , Brown Malcolm , Plum Michael , Tretter Christiane
Published: December 2015

The focus of the workshop was on the interplay between spectral theory of differential operators, system theory, inverse problems and properties of associated classes of analytic functions, among them the classical Titchmarsh-Weyl

m

-function from singular Sturm-Liouville theory, the Dirichlet-to-Neumann map from the theory of elliptic partial differential equations, and more abstract transfer, Weyl and

Q

-functions from infinite dimensional system and operator theory.
Discrete Differential Geometry
Authors: Bobenko Alexander I. , Kenyon Richard , Schröder Peter
Published: December 2015

This is the collection of extended abstracts for the 26 lectures and the open problem session at the fourth Oberwolfach workshop on Discrete Differential Geometry.
Geometric and Algebraic Combinatorics
Authors: Kalai Gil , Novik Isabella , Santos Francisco , Welker Volkmar
Published: December 2015

The 2015 Oberwolfach meeting “Geometric and Algebraic Combinatorics” was organized by Gil Kalai (Jerusalem), Isabella Novik (Seattle), Francisco Santos (Santander), and Volkmar Welker (Marburg). It covered a wide variety of aspects of Discrete Geometry, Algebraic Combinatorics with geometric flavor, and Topological Combinatorics. Some of the highlights of the conference included (1) counterexamples to the topological Tverberg conjecture, and (2) the latest results around the Heron-Rota-Welsh conjecture.
Mini-Workshop: Discrete p-Laplacians: Spectral Theory and Variational Methods in Mathematics and Computer Science
Authors: Hein Matthias , Lenz H. Daniel , Mugnolo Delio
Published: December 2015

The p-Laplacian operators have a rich analytical theory and in the last few years they have also offered efficient tools to tackle several tasks in machine learning. During the workshop mathematicians and theoretical computer scientists working on models based on p-Laplacians on graphs and manifolds have presented the latest theoretical developments and have shared their knowledge.