bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
3D Brochosomes‐Like TiO2/WO3/BiVO4 Arrays as Photoanode for Photoelectrochemical Hydrogen Production
Authors: Pan Qin , Zhang Haifeng , Yang Yaping , Cheng Chuanwei
Published: June 2019

An ideal photoelectrochemical (PEC) anode should process effective light absorption, charge transport, and separation efficiency. Here, a novel 3D brochosomes‐like TiO2/WO3/BiVO4 array as an efficient photoanode by combining a colloid polystyrene sphere template and electrochemical deposition routes for PEC hydrogen generation is reported. The as‐fabricated 3D TiO2/WO3/BiVO4 brochosomes photoanode yields excellent PEC performance with photocurrent densities of ≈3.13 and ≈4.27 mA cm−2 with FeOOH/NiOOH catalyst, respectively, measured in 0.5 m Na2SO4 solution with 0.1 m Na2SO3 at 1.23 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) under simulated AM1.5 light illumination, which is ≈6 times the reference sample of a planar WO3/BiVO4 film electrode. The significantly improved performance could be benefited from the ordered hollow porous structure that provides enhanced light absorption and efficient charge transport as well as improved charge separation efficiency by WO3/BiVO4 “host–guest” heterojunctions.
Breathable Nanowood Biofilms as Guiding Layer for Green On‐Skin Electronics
Authors: Zhou Tianle , Wang Jin‐Wen , Huang Ming , An Rong , Tan Huaping , Wei Hao , Chen Zheng‐Dong , Wang Xin , Liu Xiaoheng , Wang Feng , He Jianying
Published: June 2019

Thin‐film electronics are urged to be directly laminated onto human skin for reliable, sensitive biosensing together with feedback transdermal therapy, their self‐power supply using the thermoelectric and moisture‐induced‐electric effects also has gained great attention (skin and on‐skin electronics (On‐skinE) themselves are energy storehouses). However, “thin‐film” On‐skinE 1) cannot install “bulky” heatsinks or sweat transport channels, but the output power of thermoelectric generator and moisture‐induced‐electric generator relies on the temperature difference (∆T ) across generator and the ambient humidity (AH), respectively; 2) lack a routing and accumulation of sweat for biosensing, lack targeted delivery of drugs for precise transdermal therapy; and 3) need insulation between the heat‐generating unit and heat‐sensitive unit. Here, two breathable nanowood biofilms are demonstrated, which can help insulate between units and guide the heat and sweat to another in‐plane direction. The transparent biofilms achieve record‐high transport///transport⊥ (//: along cellulose nanofiber alignment direction, ⊥: perpendicular direction) of heat (925%) and sweat (338%), winning applications emphasizing on ∆T/AH‐dependent output power and “reliable” biosensing. The porous biofilms are competent in applications where “sensitive” biosensing (transporting// sweat up to 11.25 mm s−1 at the 1st second), “insulating” between units, and “targeted” delivery of saline‐soluble drugs are of uppermost priority.
Surface‐Engineered Black Niobium Oxide@Graphene Nanosheets for High‐Performance Sodium‐/Potassium‐Ion Full Batteries
Authors: Tong Zhongqiu , Yang Rui , Wu Shilin , Shen Dong , Jiao Tianpeng , Zhang Kaili , Zhang Wenjun , Lee Chun‐Sing
Published: June 2019

Nanoscale surface‐engineering plays an important role in improving the performance of battery electrodes. Nb2O5 is one typical model anode material with promising high‐rate lithium storage. However, its modest reaction kinetics and low electrical conductivity obstruct the efficient storage of larger ions of sodium or potassium. In this work, partially surface‐amorphized and defect‐rich black niobium oxide@graphene (black Nb2O5−x@rGO) nanosheets are designed to overcome the above Na/K storage problems. The black Nb2O5−x@rGO nanosheets electrodes deliver a high‐rate Na and K storage capacity (123 and 73 mAh g−1, respectively at 3 A g−1) with long‐term cycling stability. Besides, both Na‐ion and K‐ion full batteries based on black Nb2O5−x@rGO nanosheets anodes and vanadate‐based cathodes (Na0.33V2O5 and K0.5V2O5 for Na‐ion and K‐ion full batteries, respectively) demonstrate promising rate and cycling performance. Notably, the K‐ion full battery delivers higher energy and power densities (172 Wh Kg−1 and 430 W Kg−1), comparable to those reported in state‐of‐the‐art K‐ion full batteries, accompanying with a capacity retention of ≈81.3% over 270 cycles. This result on Na‐/K‐ion batteries may pave the way to next‐generation post‐lithium batteries.
A Review of Recent Applications of Ion Beam Techniques on Nanomaterial Surface Modification: Design of Nanostructures and Energy Harvesting
Authors: Li Wenqing , Zhan Xueying , Song Xianyin , Si Shuyao , Chen Rui , Liu Jing , Wang Zhenxing , He Jun , Xiao Xiangheng
Published: June 2019

Nanomaterials have gained plenty of research interest because of their excellent performance, which is derived from their small size and special structure. In practical applications, to acquire nanomaterials with high performance, many methods have been used to modulate the structure and components of materials. To date, ion beam techniques have extensively been applied for modulating the performance of various nanomaterials. Energetic ion beams can modulate the surface morphology and chemical components of nanomaterials. In addition, ion beam techniques have also been used to fabricate nanomaterials, including 2D materials, nanoparticles, and nanowires. Compared with conventional methods, ion beam techniques, including ion implantation, ion irradiation, and focused ion beam, are all pure physical processes; these processes do not introduce any impurities into the target materials. In addition, ion beam techniques exhibit high controllability and repeatability. Here, recent progress in ion beam techniques for nanomaterial surface modification is systematically summarized and existing challenges and potential solutions are presented.
On the Significant Impact of Deformation Coupled with Cooling Rate during Thermo‐Mechanical Controlled Processing (TMCP) on Microstructure‐Property Relationship in 25Mn2Si2Cr High Strength Steel
Authors: Li Ji , Tan Zhunli , Zhang Min , Gao Guhui , Misra Raja Devesh Kumar , Bai Bingzhe
Published: June 2019

To elucidate the effect of deformation and cooling rate on microstructure‐property relationship in 25Mn2Si2Cr high strength steel during TMCP process, the dynamic continuous cooling transformation (CCT) curves are first determined by thermal simulation experiments with different degree of deformation (engineering strain: 0.35, 0.50, 0.65) and cooling rate. At the same time, direct cooling after rolling experiments are carried out with different degree of deformation and cooling rate. The results indicate that dynamic CCT curves are changed by increasing the degree of deformation. The high temperature phase transformation zone moves to left. The start temperature of martensitic transformation (Ms) is decreased. The microstructure is composed of granular bainite (GB), lath bainite (LB), and martensite/austenite (M/A) islands after air cooling (cooling rate: about 1 °C s−1). When the cooling method was wind cooling (cooling rate: about 2.5 °C s−1), microstructure was a combination of lath bainite and martensite. The microstructure on water cooling (cooling rate: about 30 °C s−1) was primarily martensite. Accelerating the cooling rate, the strength was increased, but toughness was decreased. While increasing the degree of deformation increased strength and toughness simultaneously.
The sun pillar of 26 May 2018 at Bergen
Authors: Tartaglione Nazario
Published: June 2019

A solar pillar was observed in Bergen, Norway on 26 May 2018. In what follows, the meteorological phenomenon is described using a photograph and available scientific data. Radio occultation data are used to infer temperature and altitude ranges for the potential formation of ice crystals, which play a crucial role in the phenomenon.
A verification-driven framework for iterative design of controllers
Authors: Menghi Claudio , Spoletini Paola , Chechik Marsha , Ghezzi Carlo
Published: June 2019

Controllers often are large and complex reactive software systems and thus they typically cannot be developed as monolithic products. Instead, they are usually comprised of multiple components that interact to provide the desired functionality. Components themselves can be complex and in turn be decomposed into multiple sub-components. Designing such systems is complicated and must follow systematic approaches, based on recursive decomposition strategies that yield a modular structure. This paper proposes FIDDle–a comprehensive verification-driven framework which provides support for designers during development. FIDDle supports hierarchical decomposition of components into sub-components through formal specification in terms of pre- and post-conditions as well as independent development, reuse and verification of sub-components. The framework allows the development of an initial, partially specified design of the controller, in which certain components, yet to be defined, are precisely identified. These components can be associated with pre- and post-conditions, i.e., a contract, that can be distributed to third-party developers. The framework ensures that if the components are compliant with their contracts, they can be safely integrated into the initial partial design without additional rework. As a result, FIDDle supports an iterative design process and guarantees correctness of the system at any step of development. We evaluated the effectiveness of FIDDle in supporting an iterative and incremental development of components using the K9 Mars Rover example developed at NASA Ames. This can be considered as an initial, yet substantive, validation of the approach in a realistic setting. We also assessed the scalability of FIDDle by comparing its efficiency with the classical model checkers implemented within the LTSA toolset. Results show that FIDDle scales as well as classical model checking as the number of the states of the components under development and their environments grow.
Personality and Vocational Motivation: A Study among Catholic Seminarians in Italy Employing the Big Five and the NIRO
Authors: Francis Leslie J. , Crea Giuseppe
Published: June 2019

This paper tests the hypothesis that vocational motivation (as assessed by religious orientation theory) among Catholic seminarians is significantly correlated with their personality profile (as assessed by the Big Five Factor model). Data provided by 170 seminarians in Italy who completed the New Indices of Religious Orientation and the Big Five Questionnaire demonstrated that: the intrinsic orientation is high among seminarians and positively correlated with conscientiousness; the extrinsic motivation is low among seminarians and negatively correlated with emotional stability; and that the quest orientation is quite high among seminarians, positively correlated with openness and negatively correlated with conscientiousness and friendliness. Attention is given to the distinctive strengths and weaknesses of the quest orientation within the context of formation for priesthood.
FST develops critical sealing technology for electrified transportation
Authors: Atkinson Simon
Published: June 2019

Strict emissions regulations are forcing engineers to come up with alternative ways of powering cars and commercial vehicles. Electric power-trains that run on batteries, and fuel cells which consume hydrogen to produce electricity, are playing an increasingly important role in the automotive industry as it seeks to develop power plants that comply with these regulations, ultimately reaching the target of zero emissions. As this brief article reveals, Freudenberg Sealing Technologies (FST) is developing critical sealing technology for batteries and fuel cells – that work towards these objectives – to ensure that they operate efficiently, reliably and safely.
C.07 Predicting individualized risk of recurrence: development and validation of a DNA-methylation based nomogram in meningioma
Authors: Nassiri F , Mamatjan Y , Suppiah S , Badhiwala J , Mansouri S , Karimi S , Saarela O , Poisson L , Ng H , Noushmehr H , Harter P , Baumgarten P , Weller M , Preusser M , Mende C , Sahm F , von Deimling A , Aldape K , Zadeh G
Published: June 2019

Background: Challenges in predicting risk of recurrence for individual patients with meningioma limits appropriate selection of patients who may benefit from adjuvant radiation therapy to delay recurrence. Here, we aimed to develop and validate a combined clinicomolecular predictor of early recurrence for individual patients with meningiomas. Methods: A methylation-based predictor of 5-year recurrence-free-survival (RFS) was developed using DNA-methylation profiles from a training cohort of 228 patients. Model performance was compared to a standard-of-care histological-based model using three independent cohorts (N=54 ;N=140; N=64 patients). Subsequently, a nomogram that integrated the methylome-based predictor with prognostic clinical factors was developed and validated. Results: The methylome-based predictor of 5-year RFS performed favorably compared to a grade-based predictor when tested using the three validation cohorts (ΔAUC=0.10, 95%CI 0.03 – 0.018) and was independently associated with RFS on multivariable Cox regression analysis (HR=3.6, 95%CI 1.8–7.2, P<0.001). A nomogram combining the methylome-predictor with clinical factors demonstrated greater discrimination for recurrence than a nomogram using clinical factors alone (ΔAUC=0.25, 95%CI 0.22–0.27) and resulted in two risk groups with distinct recurrence patterns (HR=7.7, 95%CI 5.3–11.1, P<0.001) and clinical implications. Conclusions: Our validated models provide important novel prognostic information that could be used to individualize decisions regarding post-operative therapeutic interventions in meningioma.
P.007 Déjà vu evoked by stimulating the insula in two patients suffering from intractable temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Pepin C , Assi E Bou , Bouthillier A , Nguyen D K.
Published: June 2019

Background: Déjà vu is a common manifestation of temporal lobe seizures. It can be reproduced by electrical stimulation of the hippocampus, amygdala and temporal neocortex with stereotactically implanted electrodes. We report here déjà vu triggered by the stimulation of the insula. Methods: Two patients suffering from intractable temporal lobe epilepsy exhibiting auras of déjà vu underwent invasive EEG studies. One patient had a prior temporal lobectomy with reoccurrence of similar symptoms after surgery. We performed functional connectivity analyses using phase locking value (PLV) to estimate changes in connectivity between different brain regions in the standard EEG frequency bands during stimulation. Results: Stimulation of the insular cortex induced reproducible déjà vu symptoms in both patients. In one patient, PLV analysis showed increased synchronization in the alpha band between insular and temporal regions after an evoked déjà vu compared to a control stimulation. Conclusions: Our results suggest that the insula may in rare occasions generate déjà vu. This implies that insular epileptogenicity cannot be ruled out in patients exhibiting such an aura nor in patients with persisting déjà vu despite an initial amygdalo-hippocampectomy.
P.009 Characterizing drug-resistant epilepsy in an adult cohort with new-onset epilepsy
Authors: Denton A , Hernandez-Ronquillo L , Tellez-Zenteno J , Waterhouse K
Published: June 2019

Background: There are few studies exploring rates of drug resistant epilepsy in populations with new-onset epilepsy (NOE). This prospective cohort study characterizes the development of drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) and risk factors in an adult cohort with NOE or newly-diagnosed epilepsy (NDE). Methods: Patients are from the Single Seizure Clinic (SSC) in Saskatoon, SK between 2011 and 2018. The SSC sees patients who experience their first seizure; approximately 30% are diagnosed with epilepsy. Patients were followed prospectively. We identified the following variables in the cohort: epilepsy type, seizure onset, etiology, syndromes, and rates of DRE. Inclusion criteria included patients with NO and NDE, at least 18 years at diagnosis, and a minimum 1 year of follow-up. Results: Ninety-five patients were included, 46 females and 49 males. Median age of onset was 33 years. Of those, 28.4% developed DRE. Average time between onset and DRE diagnosis was 1.44 years. Bivariate analysis identified age, gender, and cranial trauma as significant risk factors for DRE. The multivariate model was not significant. Conclusions: Our study shows that patients with new-onset epilepsy have are less likely to develop DRE compared with patients from epilepsy clinics. This study contributes valuable information about NO epilepsy in adults and the development of DRE.
P.021 Esophageal cooling for hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy: a feasibility study
Authors: Smith T , Couillard P , Hruska P , McBeth P , Kortbeek J
Published: June 2019

Background: Targeted temperature management (TTM) is a recognized treatment to decrease mortality and improve neurological functionin hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). An esophageal cooling device (ECD) has been studied in animal models but human data is limited. ECD appear to offer similar benefits to intravascular cooling catheters with potentially less risk to the patient. We studied whether the ECD could act as a substitute for intravascular cooling catheters. Methods: Eight ICU patients admitted following cardiac arrest who required TTM were enrolled prospectively. The primary outcome measures were timeliness of insertion, ease of insertion, user Likert ratings, time to achieve a target temperature of 36˚C and time target temperature was maintained within 0.5˚C of the 36˚C goal for 24 hours using an ECD. Results: Time to reach target temperature 0 min to 540 min. ECD appeared to be effective at maintaining a target temperature of 36˚C for most patients. In general, the catheter was easy to insert and use. Conclusions: For patients requiring TTM, use of an ECDadequately allowed for TTM goalsto be achieved and maintained. Overall user evaluationwas positive.
P.051 Early life stress in adolescent migraine and the mediational influence of internalizing psychopathology in a Canadian cohort
Authors: Hammond NG , Orr SL , Colman I
Published: June 2019

Background: This study sought to examine the association between early life stressors and adolescent headache and the potential mediating influence of internalizing psychopathology. Methods: This study used data from 2,313 respondents of the National Longitudinal Survey of Children and Youth, followed prospectively from age 0-1 years at baseline (1994/1995) until age 14-15 years (2008/2009). The relationships between four measures of early life family level stressors, and outcomes of incident health professional diagnosed migraine and self-reported, unclassified frequent headache (>1 per week) were examined using multivariable logistic regression. Mediation analyses of the indirect effect of internalizing psychopathology (i.e., depression and anxiety symptoms) were examined using a regression-based path analytical framework. Results: There were 81 adolescents with incident migraine and 231 with frequent headache. There were no direct associations between early life family level factors and adolescent headache (p > .05). Internalizing psychopathology mediated relationships between family dysfunction (indirect effect [IE] 0.0181, 95% bias-corrected confidence interval [CIBC] 0.0001-0.0570), punitive parenting (IE 0.0241, 95% CIBC 0.0015-0.0633), parental depressive symptomatology (IE 0.0416, 95% CIBC 0.0017-0.0861), and incident migraine, but not frequent headache. Conclusions: Findings provide support for the influence of early life family level factors on prospective risk of developing migraine through internalizing psychopathology.
P.052 Benign spasms of infancy - a mimicker of infantile epileptic disorders
Authors: Ghossein J , Pohl D
Published: June 2019

Background: Benign spasms of infancy (BSI), previously described as benign non-epileptic infantile spasms or benign myoclonus of early infancy, are non-epileptic movements manifesting during the first year of life and spontaneously resolving in the second year of life. BSI are characterized by spasms typically lasting 1-2 seconds, involving to varying degrees the head, neck, trunk, shoulders and upper extremities. Ictal and interictal EEG recordings are normal. BSI are not associated with developmental retardation and do not require treatment. Distinction between BSI and infantile epileptic disorders, such as epileptic spasms or myoclonic epilepsy of infancy, can be challenging given the clinical similarities. Moreover, interictal EEGs can be normal in all conditions. Epileptic spasms and myoclonic epilepsy require timely treatment to improve neurodevelopmental outcomes. Methods: We describe a 6-month old infant presenting with spasm-like movements. His paroxysms as well as a positive family history for epileptic spasms were in keeping with a likely diagnosis of West syndrome. Results: Surprisingly, ictal video EEG did not reveal epileptiform activity, and suggested a diagnosis of BSI. Conclusions: We emphasize that ictal EEG is the gold standard for classification of infantile paroxysms as either epileptic or non-epileptic, thereby avoiding overtreatment of BSI and facilitating timely targeted treatment of infantile epilepsies.
P.057 Solely neonatal hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy or more? A study examining genetic predisposition towards a clinical picture of HIE
Authors: Woodward KE , Murthy P , Mineyko A , Mohammad K , Esser M
Published: June 2019

Background: Neonatal hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is a clinical phenomenon, that often results from pre or perinatal reduced cerebral blood flow and/or hypoxemia. However, in some cases, neonates present with HIE without significant risk factors or have an unusual clinical course. With the advent of advanced genetic testing, we aimed to explore if such infants had genetic risk factors predisposing them to an HIE-phenotype. Methods: We reviewed 206 charts of infants meeting local protocol criteria for moderate to severe HIE at Level III NICU’s in Calgary, Alberta. Of these, 27 patients had genetic testing such as microarray, whole exome sequencing, or gene panels. Results: Six/twenty-seven patients had genetic mutations; two CDKL5 mutations (protein kinase), one CFTR mutation (cystic fibrosis), one PDH deficiency, one CYP21A2 mutation (congenital adrenal hyperplasia), and one ISY1 (VUS; pre-mRNA splicing). Two patients had noted difficult deliveries and four had minor complications, but all were out of keeping with the severity of presumed HIE. Conclusions: This preliminary study demonstrates a possible association between genetic co-morbidities and predisposition towards HIE in the context of a relatively uneventful pre/perinatal course. Earlier identification of genetic etiology, recognized by a discrepancy between risk factors and clinical presentation, could aid in treatment decisions and outcome prognostication.
P.061 The value of AVXS-101 gene-replacement therapy for Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1 (SMA1)
Authors: Dabbous O , Sproule DM , Feltner DE , Droege M , Khan F , Arjunji R
Published: June 2019

Background: SMA1, a rapidly progressing disease, results in muscle weakness, respiratory failure, hospitalization, and early death. This study highlights the value of onasemnogene abeparvovec (AVXS-101) gene-replacement therapy for SMA1. Methods: Twelve SMA1 patients received a one-time intravenous proposed therapeutic dose of AVXS-101 (CL-101; NCT02122952). Event-free survival (no death/permanent ventilation), pulmonary/nutritional interventions, swallow function, hospitalization rates, CHOP-INTEND, motor milestones, and safety were assessed (2-year follow-up). Results: By study end, all 12 patients survived event-free; 7 did not require non-invasive ventilation; 11 had stable/improved swallowing function (6 exclusively fed by mouth); 11 spoke. On average, patients experienced 1.4 (SD=0.41, range=0–4.8) respiratory hospitalizations/year. The mean proportion of time hospitalized was 4.4% (range=0–18.3%); mean unadjusted rate of hospitalization/year was 2.1 (range=0–7.6), with a mean hospital stay of 6.7 (range=3–12.1) days. CHOP-INTEND increased by 9.8 (SD=3.9) and 15.4 (SD=6.4) points at 1- and 3-months post-treatment. At long-term follow-up, 11 patients sat unassisted, 4 stood with assistance, and 2 walked. Adverse events included elevated serum aminotransferase levels, which were attenuated by prednisolone. Conclusions: AVXS-101 in CL-101 resulted in dramatic survival and motor function improvements. The reduced healthcare utilization in treated infants could decrease cost and alleviate patient, caregiver, and societal burden.
P.067 Quality of my life: perceptions of boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy and their parents
Authors: Bhullar G , Miller MR , Campbell C , We Y , El-Aloul B
Published: June 2019

Background: To attain the most comprehensive view of the quality of life (QoL) of a child with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), the completion of a pediatric QoL measure by the child and his/her parent and the assessment of QoL and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) as separate constructs is crucial. Previous QoL research has not assessed HRQoL as a separate construct. By using the Quality of My Life (QoML) questionnaire, our objective was to describe QoL and HRQoL in boys with DMD based on child-and parent-reports. Methods: Parent and child dyads identified via the Canadian Neuromuscular Disease Registry received QoML questionnaires (2013-2016). Children and parent-proxy each completed the QoL and HRQoL Visual Analog Scales. Responses were marked on a 10-cm line, with higher scores (max=10) reflecting higher QoL and HRQoL. Descriptive statistics were computed for child- and parent-reports of QoL and HRQoL at three time-points. Results: Mean(SD) QoL and HRQoL scores for child- and parent-reports were: 1) Baseline (n=20 dyads), 8.32(1.72) vs. 6.73(2.23) and 7.63(2.51) vs. 6.73(2.19); 2)18-months (n=10 dyads, n=9 dyads), 7.83(2.05) vs 7.66(1.66) and 7.62(2.41) vs 7.41(2.16); 3) 36-months (n=15 dyads) 7.38(2.00) vs. 6.99(1.77) and 7.19(2.70) vs. 6.76(2.26). Conclusions: Boys with DMD report higher QoL and HRQoL compared to their parents.
P.082 Cannabinoids in the treatment of behavioural symptoms of autism: a rapid review to guide practice
Authors: Urquhart JL , Goez HR
Published: June 2019

Background: Legalization of recreational cannabis in Canada has increased the presence of cannabis in the public mind. There are online parent advocacy groups which are already calling for the use of cannabinoids in pediatric developmental and behavioural conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). We set out to perform a rapid review of existing literature regarding use of cannabinoid products in the treatment of the behavioural domains of ASD. Methods: Key search terms were identified in collaboration with a medical librarian and combined into standardized search filters. A total of 55 articles were identified, of which only two included primary data regarding the use of cannabinoids to control behavioural symptoms of ASD in pediatric populations. Results: Both studies found significant reductions in the behavioural measures examined - which included inappropriate speech, irritability, stereotyped behaviours and self injurious behaviours - after treatment with Cannabinoids. Conclusions: The minimal existing evidence indicates the use of cannabinoid products may be useful in improving behavioural difficulties in children with ASD. However, there is a complete lack of well powered, rigorous studies. Further studies with larger cohorts are needed before any recommendations can be confidently made for or against the use of cannabinoids in this population.
P.085 Perioperative endovascular procedure utilization in transsphenoidal surgery patients at two tertiary-care academic centres
Authors: Huynh TJ , Cusimano M , Clarke DB , Weeks A , Marotta TR , Maloney WJ , Aldakkan A , Bharatha A
Published: June 2019

Background: Utilization of endovascular procedures in the perioperative management of patients undergoing transsphenoidal surgery is uncommon but plays a critical role in preventing and treating potentially life-threatening vascular complications. Methods: We performed a retrospective review of all patients over a 10-year period who underwent transsphenoidal surgery at two tertiary-care institutions and identified all pre-operative and post-operative endovascular procedures performed. Results: 18 perioperative endovascular procedures were performed including 9 pre- and 9 post-operative. Pre-operative procedures included balloon-test occlusion (n=4), aneurysm coiling (n=4), and parent artery occlusion (n=1). One aneurysm coiling was complicated by coil migration requiring coil retrieval with a snare device and one balloon-test occlusion was complicated by pituitary apoplexy. Pituitary apoplexy following balloon-test occlusion has not been reported and the potential pathophysiology is reviewed. Post-operative procedures included embolization for epistaxis (n=2) and embolization with or without parent artery sacrifice for carotid and anterior cerebral artery vascular injury (n=7). Arterial vascular injury was managed with coil embolization and/or with detachable balloons. Review of anatomical features predisposing to vascular injury are discussed. Conclusions: Patients undergoing transsphenoidal surgery should be managed with a multidisciplinary team ensuring that endovascular treatment options are made available during the perioperative period.
P.092 The effect of the timing of surgery on outcomes for incidental low-grade gliomas: a systematic review
Authors: Beland B , Albakr A , Ben-Israel D , Kelly J
Published: June 2019

Background: Although previous research has suggested that patients with incidentally discovered low-grade gliomas (iLGG) who undergo surgery prior to the appearance of symptoms have improved outcomes compared to those who are symptomatic, an ideal approach to managing iLGG is not well-established. The purpose of this systematic review is to identify all cases of iLGG in the literature and characterize the effect of the timing of surgery on survival. Methods: We searched EMBASE, MEDLINE, and PubMed for articles related to iLGG. After duplicates were removed, the articles were then screened based on strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: We retrieved 24/1377 unique articles with a total of 175 patients who underwent surgery for iLGG prior to symptoms appearing. The average age was 29.1yrs (range 1-62) and the mean follow-up period was 56 months (range 1-234months). Unfortunately, only 6/24 articles reported progression-free survival (average 32.4months) and only 1/24 reported 10-year survival. Conclusions: The articles we identified favored an early intervention for iLGG, however, there was a considerable lack of long-term follow-up and survival data to justify such a claim. Further studies need to be performed with adequate follow-up data in order to determine the optimal timing of surgical intervention for these patients.
P.095 Novel use of fluorescein sodium in the resection of a pediatric posterior fossa tumor
Authors: Almojuela A , Honey CM , Gomez A , Hasen M , MacDonald C , Kazina C , Serletis D
Published: June 2019

Background: Gross total resection of pediatric posterior fossa tumors is paramount towards improving progression-free survival.

Fluorescein accumulates in tumoral tissue, where the blood-brain barrier is disrupted. It can therefore potentially aid in differentiating tumoral versus normal tissue. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of fluorescent-guidance (using fluorescein) towards the resection of a pediatric cerebellar tumor, as the index case at our institution using this technique. Methods: 5 mg/kg of IV fluorescein sodium was injected upon induction of general anesthesia. During tumor resection, a yellow 560-nm filter (Kinevo microscope, Zeiss) was employed for fluorescent-guidance. The extent of resection was assessed via post-operative MRI. Results: There were no adverse side effects experienced by the patient. Tumoral material was clearly visualized under the yellow 560-nm filter, allowing for satisfactory gross total resection of the lesion (confirmed on post-operative MRI). Preliminary pathology was consistent with medulloblastoma. Conclusions: Fluorescent-guided resection of pediatric posterior fossa tumors appears to be a safe and useful adjunct for gross total resection of these lesions. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case in Canada wherein IV fluorescein was used under a yellow 560-nm filter for resection of a posterior fossa medulloblastoma in a child.
P.109 Management of a maxillofacial, transclival penetrating injury
Authors: Pickett GE , Vandorpe R
Published: June 2019

Background: Penetrating traumatic injuries to the clivus are rare. We describe the case of a 79-year-old man who presented to the emergency room with a butter knife protruding from his left cheek. Imaging showed the blade entering just beneath the left zygoma and transecting the clivus to terminate within the prepontine cistern. The tip of the knife abutted the right anterior inferior cerebellar artery and lower basilar artery. Methods: He was brought to the interventional neuroradiology OR with knife in place, by a combined surgical team of ENT, neurosurgery, and neuroradiology. Under local anaesthetic and intravenous sedation, vascular access to the distal left vertebral artery was obtained and a balloon positioned. Traction was applied to the knife and the knife was successfully removed avoiding any angular or rotational movements. An immediate angiogram showed no evidence of arterial injury. Results: The patient recovered uneventfully and was discharged home with no neurological deficit. Follow-up CT/CTA was performed a month later and confirmed no pseudoaneurysm or other complication. Conclusions: Management of penetrating skull base injuries by a multidisciplinary surgical team is advisable. Vascular imaging is crucial. Positioning of balloons within large vessels close to the penetrating object is recommended to control bleeding that may occur on removal.
P.111 Plasma ADAM-10 as a novel biomarker for traumatic brain injury and concussion
Authors: Persad A , Taghibiglou C
Published: June 2019

Background: Cellular prion protein (PrPC) is a lipid raft protein locallizing within CNS tissue. It is reguated by a disiintegrin and metaloproteinase domain containing protein 10 (ADAM10), which induces ectodomain shedding. PrPC has been previousy implicated as a ptentia lbiomarker for TBI, but no prior studies have examined the potential of ADAM10 as a biomarker. Methods: Serum samples from patients admitted for TBI were collected and patient data was recorded. Control serum was acquired from a commercial tissue bank. Patient GCS was recorded during admission. Serum was used for ELISA to assess PrPC and ADAM10 expression. GraphPad was used to conduct ANOVA and regressional analysis. Results: 37 control and 20 TBI samples were collected. Of the TBI patiients, 8 were mild, 3 were moderate, and 9 were severe cilnical grade. Both PrPC and ADAM10 were elevated in TBI patients compared with control (p<0.001). ADAM10 exhibited a dose response, with greter expression in patients with higher clinical grade. There was no significant association of either PrPC or ADAM10 with time after injury. Conclusions: Our results indicate that PrPC and ADAM10 may be useful tools for screening of TBI. ADAM10 is associated closely with clinlcal grade, and may in the future represent a promising prognostic tool.
P.112 Permanent isolated micrographia from traumatic basal ganglia injury
Authors: Persad A , Mehta V
Published: June 2019

Background: Micrographia is a rare neurological finding in isolation. Most cases of isolated micrographia have been found in association with focal ischemia of the left basal ganglia. Methods: We present a case of post-traumatic micrographia stemming from contusion to the left basal ganglia. We performed a detailed analysis of the patient’s writing at three-year follow-up. Results: A halthy 15 year old male was admitted following a BM accident. CT showed contusion to the left basall ganglia/external capsule. MRI was negative for underlying lesion. He had a short stay in the ICU and then was discharged. Two years later, he expressed concern regarding difficulty with sma, cramped writing at school. Writing analysis revealed micrographia with spontaneous printing as well as printing to dictation, but not with copied English nor Japanese writing. Conclusions: Isolated micrographia is a rare neurological finding. We present the incidence of this symptom folllowing gliding contusion to the et basal ganglia and external capsule.
P.117 The opinion of Canadian spine surgeons on medical assistance in dying (MAID); a cross-sectional survey of Canadian spine society (CSS) members
Authors: Leck E , Barry S , Christie S
Published: June 2019

Background: On February 6, 2015, the Supreme Court of Canada struck down the Criminal Code absolute prohibition on assisted dying, and in June 2016 the new law, Bill C-14, came into effect allowing for medical assistance in dying. We sought to determine the attitudes and opinions of Canadian neurosurgeons and orthopedic spine surgeons regarding MAID. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was sent out to members of the Canadian Spine Society (CSS), which included 21 questions pertaining to opinions regarding MAID. Responses were collected between May-June 2016. Results: A total of 51 surgeons responded to the survey, comprised of a mix of spine surgeons from across the country. The majority of surgeons supported MAID (62.8%), and right of physicians to participate (82.4%). Most surgeons supported the right to conscientious objection (90.1%), but also mandatory duty to refer (49.0%). The conditions most frequently felt to be appropriate for MAID included metastatic spine tumour (76.5%), malignant intramedullary tumour (64.7%), primary malignant spine tumour (54.9%), cervical spinal cord injury with tetraplegia (49.0%) and multiple myeloma (33.3%). Conclusions: This study highlights the complex landscape that exists when discussing MAID, but also the overall support of physicians, and need for ongoing conversations, particularly with issues not addressed by the current legislation.
P.132 Is a positive nerve root sedimentation sign associated with better outcomes after lumbar laminectomy?
Authors: Neuburger L , Huschi Z , Ahmed U , Cheng Y , Fourney DR
Published: June 2019

Background: The nerve root sedimentation sign (SedSign) has been correlated with clinically significant lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS), and promoted as a possible prognostic indicator. However, diagnostic methods were not clearly defined in prior reports. In this study, the clinically validated Saskatchewan Spine Pathway enabled diagnosis of neurogenic claudication due to LSS. The objective was to compare the outcome of lumbar laminectomy for neurogenic claudication with respect to SedSign. Methods: This was a retrospective analysis of prospectively-collected data in patients with neurogenic claudication who underwent lumbar laminectomy. Outcome measures included Oswestry Disability Index, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for back and leg pain, and EuroQol 5-Dimension questionnaire. Results: Laminectomy was performed in 106 patients, and 60 were SedSign positive. Outcomes did not differ with respect to SedSign for all outcome measures, in non-instrumented and instrumented cohorts. Improvement in walking distance was associated with dural cross-sectional area of stenosis (p=0.02). VAS back and leg improvements were associated with back dominant (p=0.038) and leg dominant (p=0.0036) pain. Conclusions: This is the largest analysis of SedSign with respect to operative outcomes, and the only study with validated criteria for defining neurogenic claudication. Although other radiological and clinical factors are associated with improvements, SedSign did not correlate with laminectomy outcome.
The role of perceived threat in Australians’ endorsement of asylum-seeker policies
Authors: Pattison Emily , Davidson Graham R.
Published: June 2019

Australia’s treatment of asylum seekers continues to polarise public debate. The present study sought to investigate the factors that may influence an individual’s endorsement of deterrence-based government policies. Using the integrated threat theory of prejudice, the present study examined the role of perceived threat in shaping Australian voters’ political attitudes toward asylum seekers. A total of 255 Australian citizens completed an online questionnaire that assessed their support for aspects of government policy and their perceptions of asylum seekers as a threat. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses were used to examine the combined and unique influences of perceived threat and sociodemographic factors on overall and individual government policy endorsement. Results indicated that various types of threat (realistic, symbolic, and negative stereotypes) were significant predictors of policy support. Practical implications regarding the development of anti-discriminatory strategies and directions for future research are discussed.
Rural People and Public Justice in Fourteenth-Century Tuscany
Authors: Figliulo-Rosswurm Joseph
Published: June 2019

Accounts of public justice in the Italian communes emphasize mediation of urban conflicts, overlooking interactions between rural communities and civic tribunals. Foregrounding the countryside reveals how nonelites responded to public courts and procedures such as anonymous denunciation and ex officio inquisition. This article argues that a Florentine court's outcomes resulted from the intersection of institutional structures, local power relations, and rural inhabitants’ in-court behavior. It uses procedural records in conjunction with notarial cartularies and public documentation to explicate the local dynamics shaping testimony. Claiming ignorance was rural peoples’ tactical response to elite malefactors' enmeshment with the commune as rural proxies.
Translating Ovid'sMetamorphosesin Tudor Balladry
Authors: Reid Lindsay Ann
Published: June 2019

This article provides the first sustained overview and analysis of the reception of Ovid's “Metamorphoses” in sixteenth-century English ballad culture. It highlights a significant tradition of translating materials from this ancient Roman source into the stuff of vernacular song—a phenomenon that can be traced back as far as 1552. Positing that popular music must have played a crucial role in shaping Tudor ideas about the “Metamorphoses,” this study draws attention to the textual, visual, aural, and kinetic dimensions of the Ovidiana that was regularly read, seen, heard, sung, and even danced to by early modern consumers of mythological ballads.
Richard Topcliffe and the Book Culture of the Elizabethan Catholic Underground
Authors: Rankin Mark
Published: June 2019

Richard Topcliffe (1531–1604) was the most infamous torturer of Elizabethan England. He was also a professional reader. Historians of the book are interested in how repressive regimes read the books of their enemies. This essay identifies a number of books that contain Topcliffe's marginalia and have not previously been studied by scholars. It argues that Topcliffe's reading was forensic in nature, and was utilized directly by the Elizabethan regime in its campaign against Catholicism. This investigation reveals the connection between racking and reading, and demonstrates the ways in which Topcliffe's reading legitimated state-authorized violence.
Observations sur le comportement du schwa en franco-canadien
Authors: La Follette James E.
Published: June 2019

Les notes que nous avons réunies dans le présent article sur le schwa en franco-canadien, ont été rédigées d’après des textes oraux enregistrés sur ruban magnétique. Ces textes constituent quatre contes de folklore du comté de Charlevoix, et ils représentent approximativement deux heures et demie de débit oral. Les sujets parlants sont des cultivateurs originaires de cette région de la province de Québec qui se situe à quelques 70 milles au nord-est de la ville de Québec, sur la rive nord du fleuve Saint-Laurent. Nous tenons à ajouter que la plupart des faits que nous signalerons ont été notés également dans le parler populaire, et à un moindre degré, dans le parler familier de la ville de Québec.
Tagmemic Analysis of a Restricted Cree Text
Authors: Ellis C. Douglas
Published: June 2019

The following presentation shows the structural analysis of a Cree text in terms of tagmemic formula. The procedure, developed by K. L. Pike, and described in his Language in Relation to a Unified Theory of the Structure of Human Behavior, is based on the hypothesis that linguistic patterning is related to the patterning of all purposeful behavior. Crucial to the theory is the structural concept of slot-plus-class (of filler), which together comprise the tagmeme, i.e., the structurally relevant unit of grammatical arrangement.
Linguistics and the Teaching of English in Schools
Authors: Scargill M. H.
Published: June 2019

It is unfortunate that in the field of English studies the science of linguistics has been largely neglected in many Canadian universities. The reasons for this neglect are varied. But the results are always the same: students lamentably ignorant of the most elementary facts about the English language. I have heard an English honors graduate from one of our universities describe Chaucer as “the best of Old English authors.” I have met teachers of English in our schools who complained that, in spite of all their courses, they did not feel equipped to teach English grammar and composition and “hated’ the school “language periods.”
A Note on the Measurement of Digital Preference in Age Recordings
Authors: Carrier N. H.
Published: June 2019

1. The field of biased and unbiased errors in recorded ages is vast, and there are many opportunities for research in it. This note is restricted to a consideration of a small part of the field. First, only errors from digital preference are considered, i.e. errors to move the age to one with a preferred end digit such as 0 or 5 or in general any even number. Secondly, concentrations at isolated ages which are a genuine feature of the population are not considered. Thirdly, the use of supplementary data (such as birth registrations) or supplementary calculations (such as graduation) is ignored.
The Valuation of Annuity Business
Authors: Westcott J. A. , Smith E. M.
Published: June 2019

Recent years have seen a material growth in the annuity business of British offices and in many instances what was a relatively insignificant part of the offices' activities has now assumed considerable importance. In fact in the case of some offices, the amount of the liability in respect of annuity business exceeds that in respect of assurances.
The Theory of Games and its Application to Rate of Interest
Authors: Benjamin S.
Published: June 2019

In this paper the reader is asked to watch the heuristic development of an idea and its implications.

The subject is the way in which the working of a life office is unaffected by changes in the market rate of interest. For this purpose all other questions such as mortality, expenses, etc., will be ignored as far as possible. The idea is that actuarially a life office is qualitatively different from the sum of its individual policies; that many of the difficulties in discussing this subject occur because basic actuarial concepts and techniques, especially

(i) the idea of an average rate of interest, and

(ii) the method of discounting into a present value,

which have been designed primarily to deal with the problems of individual policies, are inappropriate to the large-scale problems of a life office, e.g. valuation, investment and bonus declarations.

The heuristic development is that of an alternative theory and technique; these do not, for instance, make use of (i) and (ii) above.