bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bacterial and Hematological Findings in Infected Total Hip Arthroplasties in Norway Assessment of 278 Revisions Due to Infection in the Norwegian Arthroplasty Register
Authors: Langvatn Håkon , Lutro Olav , Dale Håvard , Schrama Johannes Cornelis , Hallan Geir , Espehaug Birgitte , Sjursen Haakon , Engesæter Lars B
Published: October 2015

Our aim was to assess the bacterial findings in infected total hip arthroplasties (THAs) in Norway. We also wanted to investigate the relationship between causal bacteria and hematological findings. Revisions reported to the Norwegian Arthroplasty Register (NAR) due to infection after total hip arthroplasty during the period 1993 through September 2007 were identified. One single observer visited ten representative hospitals where clinical history, preoperative blood samples and the bacterial findings of intraoperative samples were collected. Bacterial growth in two or more samples was found in 278 revisions, and thus included. The following bacteria were identified: Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) (41%),Staphylococcus aureus(S. aureus) (19%), streptococci (11%), polymicrobial infections (10%), enterococci (9%), Gram-negative bacteria (6%) and others (4%). CoNS were the most common bacteria throughout the period but in the acute postoperative infections (< 3 weeks)S. aureuswas the most frequent bacterial finding. We found no change in the distribution of the bacterial groups over time.S. aureusappears correlated with a higher C-reactive protein value (CRP) (mean 140 (95% Confidence interval (CI): 101-180)) than CoNS (mean 42 (CI: 31-53)).S. aureusalso correlated with a higher erythrocyte sedimentation rate value (ESR) (mean 67 (CI: 55-79)) than CoNS (mean 47 (CI: 39-54)).
Women's Healthcare: Initiatives and Challenges
Authors: Jennings John C
Published: October 2015

John C Jennings is 2014–2015 President of the American College and Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. He is currently Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and has previously served as Regional Dean of the School of Medicine at TTUHSC Permian Basin. He is a passionate medical educator and during his academic career he has served as division chief, residency program director and department chair. He has authored numerous peer-reviewed and other publications and has been the recipient of multiple teaching awards. Prior to entering academic medicine, he was a busy practicing obstetrician/gynecologist in San Angelo, TX, USA.
Graphs with no induced wheel and no induced antiwheel
Authors: Maffray Frédéric
Published: October 2015

A wheel is a graph that consists of a chordless cycle of length at least 4
plus a vertex with at least three neighbors on the cycle. An antiwheel is
the complementary graph of a wheel. It was shown recently that detecting
induced wheels is an NP-complete problem. In contrast, it is shown here that
graphs that contain no wheel and no antiwheel have a very simple structure
and consequently can be recognized in polynomial time.
Probability Calibration Of Load Duration Modification Factor For Timber Roofs In The Polish Mountain Zones
Authors: Domański T.
Published: October 2015

The resistance parameters of timber structures decrease with time. It depends on the type of load and timber classes. Strength reduction effects, referred to as creep-rupture effects, due to long term loading at high stress ratio levels are known for many materials. Timber materials are highly affected by this reduction in strength with duration of load. Characteristic values of load duration and load duration factors are calibrated by means of using probabilistic methods. Three damage accumulation models are considered, that is Gerhard [1] model, Barret, Foschi[2] and Foshi Yao [3] models. The reliability is estimated by means of using representative short- and long-term limit states. Time variant reliability aspects are taken into account using a simple representative limit state with time variant strength and simulation of whole life time load processes. The parameters in these models are fitted by the Maximum Likelihood Methods using the data relevant for Polish structural timber. Based on Polish snow data over 45 years from mountain zone in: Zakopane – Tatra, Świeradów – Karkonosze, Lesko – Bieszczady, the snow load process parameters have been estimated. The reliability is evaluated using representative short – and long –term limit states, load duration factor kmod is obtained using the probabilistic model.
Impact Of Moisture Conditions On Early Shrinkage Of Ordinary Concrete With Changing W/C Ratio
Authors: Jasiczak Józef , Szymański Paweł , Nowotarski Piotr
Published: October 2015

Article presents the results of the effect of humidity on early shrinkage of normal concrete with variable W/C ratio. As known for a long time, shrinkage is dependent of many factors. One of them is the W/C ratio and the quantity of water which is located in the concrete mix. In article there were discussed changes taking place in the concrete mix, the methods of research and the partial results obtained by the authors of the paper. Shrinkage is a phenomenon well known and studied by various research centers. The total amount of shrinkage may depend on various factors such as humidity, temperature, composition of the concrete mix, the W/C ratio, the size of the item. The study was conducted to determine the amount of shrinkage in its early stages. It is very important for concrete floors contractors, precast manufacturers to start at the right time finishing work and prevent the formation of shrinkage cracks.
The Profitability Analysis Of Enhancement Of Parameters Of The Thermal Insulation Of Building Partitions
Authors: Życzyńska A. , Cholewa T.
Published: October 2015

The energy saving tendencies, in reference to residential buildings, can be recently seen in Europe and in the world. Therefore, there are a lot of studies being conducted aiming to find technical solutions in order to improve the energy efficiency of existing, modernized, and also new buildings. However, there are obligatory solutions and requirements, which must be implemented during designing stage of the building envelope and its heating/cooling system. They are gathered in the national regulations.

The paper describes the process of raising the energy standard of buildings between 1974–2021 in Poland. Therefore, the objective of this study is to show energy savings, which can be generated by modernization of thermal insulation of partitions of existing buildings and by the use of different ways of heat supply. The calculations are made on the selected multi-family buildings located in Poland, with the assumption of a 15 years payback time.

It is shown that it is not possible to cover the costs of the modernization works by the projected savings with the compliance to the assumption of 15 years payback time.
Flower Roundabouts And Double-Lane Roundabouts: A Comparative Performance Analysis
Authors: Giuffrè O. , Granà A. , Giuffrè T. , Marino R. , Marino S.
Published: October 2015

In the paper, a choice criterion between flower roundabouts and double-lane roundabouts is proposed, focusing on operational benefits that can derive from one scheme over the other, and outlining a general framework for benefit-cost analysis. In order to assess operational benefits of innovative roundabouts over modern roundabouts, a comparative analysis was made. Capacity was estimated using gap-acceptance models. In detail, assuming the dichotomic shifted negative exponential distribution to model headways in circulating streams, the Hagring formula was adjusted to obtain entry capacity estimations at roundabout approaches where entering vehicles face one or two conflicting flows. Based on the control delay, the suitability domains and indifference areas were constructed. Thus, a sensitivity analysis to changes in traffic demand for operational benefits of flower roundabouts over double-lane roundabouts was carried out and discussed. At last, evidence for new installations and conversion of existing roundabouts can be found.
Numerical Prediction Of The Effect Of Lamination Orientation On Fracture Behaviour Of Wires For Civil Engineering Applications
Authors: Adewole K.K. , Bull S.J.
Published: October 2015

This paper presents a numerical investigation of the effects of lamination orientation on the fracture behaviour of rectangular steel wires for civil engineering applications using finite element (FE) analysis. The presence of mid-thickness across-the-width lamination changes the cup and cone fracture shape exhibited by the lamination-free wire to a V-shaped fracture with an opening at the bottom/pointed end of the V-shape at the mid-thickness across-the-width lamination location. The presence of mid-width across-the-thickness lamination changes the cup and cone fracture shape of the lamination-free wire without an opening to a cup and cone fracture shape with an opening at the lamination location. The FE fracture behaviour prediction approach adopted in this work provides an understanding of the effects of lamination orientation on the fracture behaviour of wires for civil engineering applications which cannot be understood through experimental investigations because it is impossible to machine laminations in different orientations into wire specimens.
Imperfections In Calculations Of Guyed Lattice Masts
Authors: Matuszkiewicz M.
Published: October 2015

Influence of geometric imperfections of mast shaft in form of initial mast span curvatures both on internal forces status in the structure elements as well as on those elements effort, which is particularly important at the design stage, was analysed based on an example of certain specific mast. The calculations were performed taking into account L/1000 imperfections equal to the permissible assembly deviations as per [1], and L/500 equal to initial imperfections as for uniform built-up columns according to [2]. Remarks and final conclusions have practical meaning and can be useful in design practice.
Assessment Gravel Aggregate Reactivity With Alkalis In Relation To Methods Of Test
Authors: Owsiak Z. , Czapik P. , Zapała-Sławeta J.
Published: October 2015

Alkali-aggregate reactivity (AAR) is one of the major causes of damage in concrete. Potential susceptibility of aggregates to this reaction can be determined using several methods. This study compares gravel alkali reactivity results obtained from different tests conducted on coarse aggregates with complex petrography. The potential for the reactivity in the aggregates was revealed in the chemical test using treatment with sodium hydroxide. Optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction were used to identify the reactive constituents. The expansion measured in the mortar bars test confirmed that the aggregate was potentially capable of alkali silica reactivity with consequent deleterious effect on concrete.
NMR detected metabolites in complex natural fluids. Quinic acid in apple juice
Authors: Ailiesei Gabriela Liliana , Ciobanu Mihaela , Balan Mihaela , Stavarache Cristina , Barbes Lucica , Nicolescu Alina , Deleanu Calin
Published: October 2015

Different types of 1D and 2D NMR experiments were used to completely characterize quinic acid and demonstrate its presence in complex mixtures. The identification of quinic acid in apple juice was done without any separation step. The NMR experiments presented in this study can be used to analyze other metabolites in different complex natural fluids, of vegetal or biological origin.
Triplet–Triplet Energy Transfer Study in Hydrogen Bonding Systems
Authors: Wang Zhijia , Zhao Jianzhang , Guo Song
Published: October 2015

The 2,6-diiodoBodipy–styrylBodipy hydrogen bonding system was prepared to study the effect of hydrogen bonding on the triplet–triplet-energy-transfer (TTET) process. 2,6-DiiodoBodipy linked with N-acetyl-2,6-diaminopyridine (D-2) was used as the triplet energy
donor, and the styrylBodipy connected with thymine (A-1) was used as triplet energy acceptor, thus the TTET process was established upon photoexcitation. The photophysical processes of the hydrogen bonding system were studied with steady-state UV-vis absorption spectroscopy, fluorescence
spectroscopy, fluorescence lifetime measurement and nanosecond time-resolved transient absorption spectroscopies. The TTET of the intramolecular/hydrogen bonding/intermolecular systems were compared through nanosecond transient absorption spectroscopy. The TTET process of the hydrogen bonding
system is faster and more efficient (kTTET = 6.9 × 104 s–1, ?TTET = 94.0%) than intermolecular triplet energy transfer (kTTET = 6.0 × 104 s–1, ?TTET = 90.9%),
but slower and less efficient than intramolecular triplet energy transfer (kTTET > 108 s–1). These results are valuable for designing self-assembly triplet photosensitizers and for the study of the TTET process of hydrogen bonding systems.
Synthesis and Structure of Hexatungstochromate(III), [H3CrIIIW6O24]6–
Authors: Liu Wenjing , Lin Zhengguo , Bassil Bassem S. , Al-Oweini Rami , Kortz Ulrich
Published: October 2015

The hexatungstochromate(III) [H3CrIIIW6O24]6- (1) was synthesized in aqueous, basic medium by simple reaction of chromium(III) nitrate nonahydrate and sodium tungstate dihydrate in a 1:6 ratio. Polyanion 1 represents
the first Anderson-Evans type heteropolytungstate with a trivalent hetero element. The sodium salt of 1 with the formula Na6[H3CrIIIW6O24]·22H2O (1a) was fully characterized in the solid state by single crystal XRD, FT-IR spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis.
Level of Serum Electrolytes in Chronic Alcoholic Patients
Authors: Raut Mithileshwer , Ghimire Sangita , Regmi Prashant , Raut Sanjay Kumar , Jha Bharat
Published: October 2015

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study is to establish serum levels of sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium and phosphorus in chronic alcoholic patients.METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital (TUTH).  A total of 90 chronic alcoholic patients visiting to psychiatry department of TUTH were included in the study. Age of patients ranges from 20-50 years. Study also included 90 non-alcoholic healthy controls that were age matched.RESULTS: Among the 90 chronic alcoholic patients and 90 normal healthy controls, majority of patients (95.5%) and controls (82%) were male, only few patients were female (4.5%). The mean age of the cases and controls were 35.42 ± 5.6 years, 34.53 ± 3.5 years respectively. In this study, the mean values of Serum Sodium and Potassium were lower in cases (133.58 ± 7.8, sodium and 3.64 ± 0.65, potassium) as compared to controls ( 139.43 ± 3.85, sodium and 4.15 ± 0.43, potassium) with the significant correlation in both groups (p<0.001). Calcium, phosphorus and magnesium level was depleted in cases compared to control groups.CONCLUSIONS: Hyponatremia and hypokalemia are the most common electrolyte abnormalities observed in chronic alcoholic patients.
Incidental Appendiceal Carcinoids: A Rare Case at an Uncommon Site
Authors: Sharma Sujan , Makaju Ramesh , Rajbhandari Nripesh
Published: October 2015

We report a case of 10-year-old female, who was admitted in the surgical department of Dhulikhel Hospital with symptoms of acute appendicitis. The appendectomy was performed. The gross appearance of the appendix was of a slight catarrhal appendicitis, with no sign of a tumor, but the tip of the appendix was perforated. The histopathological examination revealed a carcinoid tumor on the tip of the appendix. No vascular or perineural invasion was seen. Conclusions: The appendectomy is enough for carcinoid tumors of the tip of the appendix, of small sizes, without vascular or perineural invasion.
Serum CA 19-9 Levels in Benign and Malignant Diseases Associated with the Gastrointestinal Tract
Authors: Bhattarai Aseem , Jha Bharat , Timilsina Santosh
Published: October 2015

BACKGROUND: The diagnostic utility of CA 19-9 has been thoroughly evaluated and revised more than once over the past years in the context of pathological conditions related to the gastrointestinal tract. Our study was conducted to evaluate the diagnostic usage of CA 19-9 levels in the serum of patients affected with various disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, and to assess the diagnostic values in terms of severity and organ system involved in the context of clinical disorders requiring surgical interventions.METHODS: A total of 70 patients admitted to various surgical units and the critical care units were randomly selected and the sera analyzed for levels of CA 19-9. Mean values were compared using independent t-tests and ANOVA, and cut-offs were estimated using ROC Curves.RESULTS: CA 19-9 levels in the serum were found to be elevated in 57%, 50%, 100%, 81% and 63% of patients with Stomach / Upper GI, Liver / Gall Bladder, Pancreas, Colorectal and Lungs/Pleural pathologies respectively, with the normal cut-off values at 35 U/ml. In general, mean values of CA 19-9 in the serum were higher in patients with neoplasms (75.63±34.3 U/ml) compared to patients with inflammatory conditions (44.5±20.5 U/ml), (p<0.001). Similarly, mean values of CA 19-9 were higher in patients with malignant neoplasms compared to benign lesions (56.06±24.5 U/ml, compared to 88.39±34.2 U/ml, p = 0.003). Patients with pancreatic pathologies had the highest mean values of CA 19-9 in their serum 94.43±29.28 U/ml) compared to patients with other organ system pathologies (p< 0.001). When assessed separately, patients with malignant conditions of the pancreas had a higher mean value of serum CA 19-9 compared to patients with non-malignant and inflammatory conditions of the pancreas 121.0±16.7 U/ml compared to 74.5±17.86 U/ml, p<0.001). Mean levels of CA 19-9 were also higher in patients with surgically inoperable stages of malignant cancers of the pancreas in comparison to patients who had a surgically resectable mass in the pancreas (99.36±33.51 compared to 65.91±30.11 U/ml, p = 0.02). Finally, in order to establish a cut-off value for achieving maximal sensitivity and specificity to diagnose malignant conditions of the pancreas, the cut-offs were set at 92 U/ml achieving 100% sensitivity and 90% specificity.CONCLUSIONS: The serum levels of CA 19-9 are practically elevated in all conditions associated with the Gastrointestinal System, and thus, at current cut-off values, this marker is at best, non-specific. Higher values, however, are typically associated with pancreatic conditions, both benign and malignant. Thus, with a higher cut-off value, CA 19-9 serves better as a specific marker for the diagnosis of clinical conditions of the pancreas, at preferably above 90 U/ml.
Distinct displacements of the optic radiation based on tumor location revealed using preoperative diffusion tensor imaging
Authors: Faust Katharina , Vajkoczy Peter
Published: October 2015

OBJECT

Visual field defects (VFDs) due to optic radiation (OR) injury are a common complication of temporal lobe surgery. The authors analyzed whether preoperative visualization of the optic tract would reduce this complication by influencing the surgeon’s decisions about surgical approaches. The authors also determined whether white matter shifts caused by temporal lobe tumors would follow predetermined patterns based on the tumor’s topography.

METHODS

One hundred thirteen patients with intraaxial tumors of the temporal lobe underwent preoperative diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) fiber tracking. In 54 of those patients, both pre- and postoperative VFDs were documented using computerized perimetry. Brainlab’s iPlan 2.5 navigation software was used for tumor reconstruction and fiber visualization after the fusion of DTI studies with their respective magnetization-prepared rapid gradient-echo (MP-RAGE) images. The tracking algorithm was as follows: minimum fiber length 100 mm, fractional anisotropy threshold 0.1. The lateral geniculate body and the calcarine cortex were employed as tract seeding points. Shifts of the OR caused by tumor were visualized in comparison with the fiber tracking of the patient’s healthy hemisphere.

RESULTS

Temporal tumors produced a dislocation of the OR but no apparent fiber destruction. The shift of white matter tracts followed fixed patterns dependent on tumor location: Temporolateral tumors resulted in a medial fiber shift, and thus a lateral transcortical approach is recommended. Temporopolar tumors led to a posterior shift, always including Meyer’s loop; therefore, a pterional transcortical approach is recommended. Temporomesial tumors produced a lateral and superior shift; thus, a transsylvian-transcisternal approach will result in maximum sparing of the fibers. Temporocentric tumors also induced a lateral fiber shift. For those tumors, a transsylvian-transopercular approach is recommended. Tumors of the fusiform gyrus generated a superior (and lateral) shift; consequently, a subtemporal approach is recommended to avoid white matter injury. In applying the approaches recommended above, new or worsened VFDs occurred in 4% of the patient cohort. Total neurological and surgical morbidity were less than 10%. In 90% of patients, gross-total resection was accomplished.

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative visualization of the OR may help in avoiding postoperative VFDs.
Endoscope-assisted retrosigmoid infralabyrinthine approach to jugular foramen tumors
Authors: Samii Madjid , Alimohamadi Maysam , Gerganov Venelin
Published: October 2015

OBJECT

Removal of jugular foramen (JF) tumors usually requires extensive skull base approaches and is frequently associated with postoperative morbidities such as lower cranial nerve injury. The endoscope-assisted retrosigmoid infralabyrinthine approach is a relatively new approach to tumors extending into the bony canal of the JF. The authors present their experience with this approach.

METHODS

The endoscope-assisted retrosigmoid infralabyrinthine approach was used in 7 patients, including 5 with schwannomas and 2 with paragangliomas. The access to the tumor, extent of its removal, postoperative neurological outcome, and approach-related morbidities were evaluated.

RESULTS

Two patients had a history of previous partial tumor removal, and 1 was treated by embolization followed by two courses of Gamma Knife radiosurgery. In this latter patient near-total resection was achieved. Gross-total resection was possible in the remaining 6 patients. Five patients benefited from endoscopic assistance: in 2 patients it showed a tumor remnant after microscopic tumor removal, while in 3 patients it allowed safe removal of the intraforaminal tumor by visualizing the surrounding structures. No permanent neurological deficit was observed after the operation. Two patients presenting with swallowing disturbance had temporary postoperative worsening that improved later. One patient developed CSF leakage that was managed with a lumbar drain.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that the judicious application of the endoscope-assisted retrosigmoid infralabyrinthine approach is safe and effective for removal of the schwannomas extending into the JF and selected paragangliomas without significant luminal invasion of the sigmoid-jugular system.
Gamma Knife radiosurgery for vestibular schwannomas: evaluation of tumor control and its predictors in a large patient cohort in The Netherlands
Authors: Klijn Stijn , Verheul Jeroen B. , Beute Guus N. , Leenstra Sieger , Mulder Jef J. S. , Kunst Henricus P. M. , Hanssens Patrick E. J.
Published: October 2015

OBJECT

The authors of this study sought to assess tumor control and complication rates in a large cohort of patients who underwent Gamma Knife radiosurgery (GKRS) for vestibular schwannoma (VS) and to identify predictors of tumor control.

METHODS

The records of 420 patients treated with GKRS for VS with a median marginal dose of 11 Gy were retrospectively analyzed. Patients with neurofibromatosis Type 2 or who had undergone treatment for VS previously were excluded. The authors assessed tumor control and complication rates with chart review and used the Cox proportional hazards model to identify predictors of tumor control. Preservation of serviceable hearing, defined as Gardner-Robertson Class I–II, was evaluated in a subgroup of 71 patients with serviceable hearing at baseline and with available follow-up audiograms.

RESULTS

The median VS tumor volume was 1.4 cm3, and the median length of follow-up was 5.1 years. Actuarial 5-and 10-year tumor control rates were 91.3% and 84.8%, respectively. Only tumor volume was a statistically significant predictor of tumor control rate. The tumor control rate decreased from 94.1% for tumors smaller than 0.5 cm3 to 80.7% for tumors larger than 6 cm3. Thirteen patients (3.1%) had new or increased permanent trigeminal nerve neuropathy, 4 (1.0%) had new or increased permanent facial weakness, and 5 (1.2%) exhibited new or increased hydrocephalus requiring a shunting procedure. Actuarial 3-year and 5-year hearing preservation rates were 65% and 42%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The 5-year actuarial tumor control rate of 91.3% in this cohort of patients with VS compared slightly unfavorably with the rates reported in other large studies, but the complication and hearing preservation rates in this study were similar to those reported previously. Various factors may contribute to the observed differences in reported outcomes. These factors include variations in treatment indication and in the definition of treatment failure, as well as a lack of standardization of terminology and of evaluation of complications. Last, differences in dosimetric variables may also be an explanatory factor.
Importance of RNF213 polymorphism on clinical features and long-term outcome in moyamoya disease
Authors: Kim Eun-Hee , Yum Mi-Sun , Ra Young-Shin , Park Jun Bum , Ahn Jae Sung , Kim Gu-Hwan , Goo Hyun Woo , Ko Tae-Sung , Yoo Han-Wook
Published: October 2015

OBJECT

Moyamoya disease (MMD) is an idiopathic cerebrovascular occlusive disorder prevalent in East Asia. In the pathogenesis of MMD, the important role of genetic factors is being elucidated, and RNF213 has recently been identified as a susceptibility gene for MMD. The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the RNF213 genotype in patients with MMD and to determine their genotype-phenotype associations.

METHODS

The study involved 165 Korean MMD patients from 155 unrelated families who were diagnosed with MMD at a single center from 1995 to 2013. Their demographic, radiological, and clinical findings were evaluated. Direct sequencing of the major RNF213 single nucleotide polymorphisms was performed. The association of the common RNF213 variant with MMD risk was evaluated using historical controls for comparison. Correlations between RNF213 genotype and phenotype were statistically analyzed.

RESULTS

The c.14429G>A (p.R4810K) variant was identified in 125 (75.8%) of 165 MMD patients. Most patients (112) were heterozygous, and 13 patients had 2 copies of the c.14429G>A variant. A novel heterozygous variant, c.12086A>G (p.Q4029R), was found in 1 additional patient. The minor allele frequency of the c.14429G>A variant was significantly higher in the MMD group (138 [41.8%] of 330 patients) than in the control group (8 [1.36%] of 588 subjects; p < 0.001). The c.14429G>A (p.R4810K) variant significantly increased the risk of MMD in Korean patients, with an OR of 52.11 (p < 0.001) compared with controls. Moreover, c.14429G>A (p.R4810K) genotypes occurred more frequently in patients with a family history of MMD. The homozygous variant was highly associated with early-onset MMD (age at onset < 5 years), cerebral infarction at diagnosis, and cognitive impairment in long-term outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings indicate that the c.14429G>A (p.R4810K) allele of RNF213 is strongly associated with Korean patients with MMD. The homozygous c.14429G>A (p.R4810K) variant is particularly related to early-onset MMD, severe symptomatic manifestations at diagnosis, and poor prognosis. This genotypic variant may be a useful biomarker for early-onset MMD or unstable MMD with cerebral infarction, which requires early diagnosis and revascularization treatment.
Quality of survival the 1st year with glioblastoma: a longitudinal study of patient-reported quality of life
Authors: Sagberg Lisa Millgård , Solheim Ole , Jakola Asgeir S.
Published: October 2015

OBJECT

By exploring longitudinal patient-reported health-related quality of life (HRQoL), the authors sought to assess the quality of survival for patients in the 1st year after diagnosis of glioblastoma.

METHODS

Thirty unselected patients ≥ 18 years who underwent primary surgery for glioblastoma in the period 2011–2013 were included. Using the generic HRQoL questionnaire EQ-5D 3L, baseline HRQoL was assessed before surgery and at postoperative follow-up after 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 months.

RESULTS

There was an apparent correlation between deterioration in HRQoL scores and tumor progression. Patients with permanent deterioration in HRQoL early after surgery represented a subgroup with rapid progression and short survival. Both positive and negative changes in HRQoL were more often seen after surgery than after radio- or chemotherapy. Patients with gross-total resection (GTR) reported better and more stable HRQoL. In a multivariable analysis preoperative cognitive symptoms (p = 0.02), preoperative functional status (p = 0.03), and GTR (p = 0.01) were independent predictors of quality of survival (area under the curve for EQ-5D 3L index values).

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicate that progression-free survival is not only a surrogate marker for survival, but also for quality of survival. Quality of survival seems to be associated with GTR, which adds further support for opting for extensive resections in glioblastoma patients with good preoperative functional levels.
Health-related quality of life in pediatric Chiari Type I malformation: the Chiari Health Index for Pediatrics
Authors: Ladner Travis R. , Westrick Ashly C. , Wellons John C. , Shannon Chevis N.
Published: October 2015

OBJECT

The purpose of this study was to design and validate a patient-reported health-related quality of life (HRQOL) instrument for pediatric Chiari Type I malformation (CM-I), the Chiari Health Index for Pediatrics (CHIP).

METHODS

The CHIP has 45 items with 4 components making up 2 domain scores, physical (pain frequency, pain severity, nonpain symptoms) and psychosocial; physical and psychosocial scores are combined to create an overall HRQOL score. Increasing scores (0 to 1) represent increasing HRQOL. Fifty-five patients with CM-I (mean age 12 ± 4 years, 53% male) were enrolled and completed the CHIP and Health Utilities Index Mark 3 (HUI3). Twenty-five healthy controls (mean age 11.9 ± 4 years, 40% male) also completed the CHIP. CHIP scores were compared between these groups via the Mann-Whitney U-test. For CHIP discriminative function, subscore versus presence of CM-I was compared via receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. CHIP scores in the CM-I group were stratified by symptomatology (asymptomatic, headaches, and paresthesias) and compared via Kruskal-Wallis test with Mann-Whitney U-test with Bonferroni correction (p < 0.0167). CHIP was compared with HUI3 (Health Utilities Index Mark 3) via univariate and multivariate linear regression.

RESULTS

CHIP physical and psychosocial subscores were, respectively, 24% and 18% lower in CM-I patients than in controls (p < 0.001); the overall HRQOL score was 23% lower as well (p < 0.001). The area under the curve (AUC) for CHIP physical subscore versus presence of CM-I was 0.809. CHIP physical subscore varied significantly with symptomatology (p = 0.001) and HUI3 pain-related quality of life (R2 = 0.311, p < 0.001). The AUC for CHIP psychosocial subscore versus presence of CM-I was 0.754. CHIP psychosocial subscore varied significantly with HUI3 cognitive- (R2 = 0.324, p < 0.001) and emotion-related (R2 = 0.155, p = 0.003) quality of life. The AUC for CHIP HRQOL versus presence of CM-I was 0.820. Overall CHIP HRQOL score varied significantly with symptomatology (p = 0.001) and HUI3 multiattribute composite HRQOL score (R2 = 0.440, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The CHIP is a patient-reported, CM-I-specific HRQOL instrument, with construct validity in assessing pain-, cognitive-, and emotion-related quality of life, as well as symptomatic features unique to CM-I. It holds promise as a discriminative HRQOL index in CM-I outcomes assessment.
Repair of a traumatic subarachnoid-pleural fistula with the percutaneous injection of fibrin glue in a 2-year-old
Authors: Chu Jason K. , Miller Brandon A. , Bazylewicz Michael P. , Holbrook John F. , Chern Joshua J.
Published: October 2015

Subarachnoid-pleural fistulas (SPFs) are rare clinical entities that occur after severe thoracic trauma or iatrogenic injury during anterolateral approaches to the spine. Treatment of these fistulas often entails open repair of the dural defect. The authors present the case of an SPF in a 2-year-old female after a penetrating injury to the chest. The diagnosis of an SPF was suspected given the high chest tube output and was confirmed with a positive β2-transferrin test of the chest tube fluid, as well as visualization of dural defects on MRI. The dural defects were successfully repaired with CT-guided percutaneous epidural injection of fibrin glue alone. This case represents the youngest pediatric patient with a traumatic SPF to be treated percutaneously. This technique can be safely used in pediatric patients, offers several advantages over open surgical repair, and could be considered as an alternative first-line therapy for the obliteration of SPFs.
Rapid-onset paraparesis and quadriparesis in patients with intramedullary spinal dermoid cysts: report of 10 cases
Authors: Girishan Shabari , Rajshekhar Vedantam
Published: October 2015

OBJECT

Intramedullary dermoid cysts are rare tumors of the spinal cord. Presentation with rapid onset of paraparesis or quadriparesis (onset within 2 weeks) is rarer still. The authors present their experience in the management and outcome of patients with such a presentation.

METHODS

Patient records between 2000 and 2014 were retrospectively reviewed to identify those with intraspinal dermoid cysts who presented with rapid-onset paraparesis or quadriparesis. Their clinical, radiological, operative, and follow-up data were analyzed.

RESULTS

Of a total of 50 patients with intraspinal dermoid cysts managed during the study period, 10 (20%) presented with rapid-onset paraparesis or quadriparesis; 9 patients ranged in age from 8 months to 2 years, and 1 patient was 25 years old. A dermal sinus was seen in the lumbar region of 4 patients, the sacral region of 3, and the thoracic region of 1, and in 1 patient no sinus was found. All except 1 patient presented with rapid-onset paraparesis secondary to infection of the intramedullary dermoid cyst. One patient presented with rupture of a dermoid cyst with extension into the central canal up to the medulla. Early surgery was done soon after presentation in all except 2 patients. Among the 9 patients who underwent surgery (1 patient did not undergo surgery), total excision of the intramedullary dermoid cyst was done in 3 patients, near-total excision in 4 patients, and partial excision in 2 patients. Of the 9 patients who underwent surgery, 8 showed significant improvement in their neurological status, and 1 patient remained stable. The 1 patient who did not undergo surgery died as a result of an uncontrolled infection after being discharged to a local facility for management of wound infection.

CONCLUSIONS

Early recognition of a dermal sinus and the associated intraspinal dermoid cyst and timely surgical intervention can eliminate the chances of acute deterioration of neurological function. Even after an acute onset of paraparesis or quadriparesis, appropriate antibiotic therapy and prompt surgery can provide reasonably good outcomes in these patients.
Atypical pediatric ganglioglioma is common and associated with a less favorable clinical course
Authors: Patibandla Mohana Rao , Ridder Thomas , Dorris Kathleen , Torok Michelle R. , Liu Arthur K. , Handler Michael H. , Stence Nicholas V. , Fenton Laura Z. , Hankinson Todd C.
Published: October 2015

OBJECT

Ganglioglioma (GG) is commonly recognized as a low-grade tumor located in the temporal lobe, often presenting with seizures. Most are amenable to complete resection and are associated with excellent oncological outcome. The authors encountered several GGs in various locations, which seem to have a less favorable clinical course than GGs in the temporal lobe.

METHODS

The authors performed a single-center retrospective review of all children with a histological diagnosis of GG who were treated at Children’s Hospital Colorado between 1997 and 2013. Each tumor was categorized by 2 pediatric neuroradiologists as typical or atypical based on preoperative MRI appearance. Typical lesions were cortically based, within a single cerebral lobe, well-circumscribed, and solid or mixed solid/cystic. The treatment and clinical course of each patient was analyzed.

RESULTS

Thirty-seven children were identified, with a median age at presentation of 8.2 years and median follow-up of 38.0 months. Eighteen tumors (48.6%) were typical and 19 (51.4%) were atypical. All typical lesions presented with seizures, whereas no atypical lesions did so. Sixteen (88.9%) typical lesions were located in the temporal lobe. In the atypical group, tumor location was variable, including 11 (57.9%) in the brainstem. Death during follow-up was statistically more common in the atypical group (31.6% vs 0%, p = 0.02). Gross-total resection (GTR) was achieved for 15 of 16 typical tumors (93.8%), compared with 3 atypical tumors (15.8%, p < 0.0001). Presentation with seizure or non-brainstem location were each associated with survival (p = 0.02 and 0.004, respectively). The presence of mutation in BRAF exon 15 did not differ between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Pediatric GG with typical imaging features is associated with excellent rates of GTR and overall survival. Atypical GG is commonly encountered, less amenable to GTR, and associated with a worse outcome. This may relate to anatomical or biological characteristics and merits further investigation.
Synthesis of Novel Spiro[Oxirane-Pyrrolizin] Derivatives by Epoxidation of α,β-Unsaturated Pyrrolizinone with Cyclohexylidenebishydroperoxide
Authors: Yang Leilei , Li Xiaofang , Hu Xiaolian , Tang Zhenqiang
Published: October 2015

A simple epoxidation of E-2-(arylmethylidene)-2,3-dihydro-1H-pyrrolizin-1-ones was accomplished using cyclohex ylidenebishydroperoxide as the oxygen source. A number of 3-arylspiro[oxirane-2,2′-pyrrolizin]-1′(3′H)-ones were obtained in moderate to good yields.
Correlation of the Rates of Solvolysis of 2,1-Benzoxathiol-3-One-1, 1-dioxide (2-Sulfobenzoic Acid Cyclic Anhydride)
Authors: Kevill Dennis N. , Ryu Zoon Ha
Published: October 2015

Solvolysis of acyclic mixed carboxylic–sulfonic anhydrides in hydroxylic solvents is known to involve displacement at the carbonyl carbon to produce a carboxylic acid (water as the nucleophile) and/or an ester (alcohol as the nucleophile) plus the anion of the sulfonic acid. Parallel solvolyses of the cyclic mixed anhydride 2-sulfobenzoic anhydride (structurally similar to phthalic anhydride but with one carbonyl group replaced by a sulfonyl group) involve expulsion from the carbonyl carbon of a sulfonate anion that remains attached as an ortho-substituent in the benzoic acid and/or benzoate ester produced. This complicates the choice of a solvent-ionising-power scale for use in an extended Grunwald–Winstein equation treatment. The YOTs scale, previously recommended as a good general purpose scale, is chosen and used in conjunction with the NT solvent nucleophilicity scale. An acceptable correlation is obtained, which is improved when the two solvents rich in the highly ionising 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoro-2-propanol are excluded. As the solvent is varied, the sensitivities to the changes induced in the two scales are low, consistent with an early transition state, but their ratio has a value which is typical for a pathway involving addition–elimination, with addition rate-determining. Earlier reports, supporting aspects of the proposed mechanism, are reviewed.
A Half-Sandwich Rhodium(III) Complex with 4-Bromo-N-(1-Pyrenylidene)Aniline: Regioselective Cyclorhodation of the 1-Pyrenyl Group
Authors: Rao A. R. Balavardhana , Babu G. Narendra , Pal Samudranil
Published: October 2015

Reaction of [RhCp*Cl2]2 (Cp* = pentamethylcyclopentadienyl anion), 4-bromo-N-(1-pyrenylidene)aniline (Hpyan, H represents a proton of the 1-pyrenyl ring) and CH3CO2Na in 1:2:6 mole ratio in dichloromethane provides the half-sandwich, cyclometallated rhodium(III) complex [RhCp*(pyan)Cl]. X-ray crystallographic study confirms the bidentate 1-pyrenyl ortho-C and azomethine-N coordination mode of (pyan)−and the half-sandwich ‘piano-stool’ structure of [RhCp*(pyan)Cl]. In dichloromethane, the diamagnetic, redox active complex displays a metal-centred oxidation at E1/2 = 1.14 V (versus Ag/AgCl).
Synthesis and Anti-Tumour Activity Evaluation of Bergenin Derivatives
Authors: Yang Yanxia , Yan Jianwei , Yan Fulin , Yin Yanyan , Zhuang Fangfang
Published: October 2015

A series of triazole derivatives of bergenin were synthesised through the nucleophilic substitution reaction of bergenin and propargyl bromide, and following click reaction with different azides. Their antitumour activities were evaluated against EC9706, MGC803 and B16 in vitro. Several compounds showed potent anti-tumour activity, especially (2S,3R,4R,4aS,10bR)-8,10-bis{{1-[4-(tert-butyl)benzyl]-1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl} methoxy}-3,4-dihydroxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)-9-methoxy-2,3,4,4a-tetrahydropyrano[3,2-c]isochromen-6(10bH)-one, with IC50 value down to 6.28 μmol L-1 against EC970.
Using an Agroecosystem Services Approach to Assess Tillage Methods: A Case Study in the Shikma Region
Authors: Sagie Hila , Ramon Uri
Published: October 2015

The use of ecosystem services (ES) in agricultural management is expanding; however, its integration in decision making processes is still challenging. This project was formulated to examine the ES approach and its usefulness with regard to management dilemmas. The Shikma region, north of the Negev Desert, was chosen as a case study. The management issue identified was the effect of various alternatives (minimum-tillage, no-tillage, straw-mulch and stubble-grazing) on the supply of ES. The expert-based ES assessments’ findings reveal that no-tillage has the potential to increase many agroecosystem services and be more profitable for the farmer and the public. However, trade-offs between different ES and among stakeholder groups make it difficult to reach an unequivocal conclusion. As we have found, the process of the study is as important as the results. Throughout the project, an effort was made to engage stakeholders and policy-makers and to define decision-making processes. The study suggests that the ES approach can be useful in expanding the scope of agricultural management beyond provisioning services and create collaborations among farmers, communities, national institutions and environmental organizations to advance conservation agriculture. The study provides guidelines for conducting a productive ES assessment process that will lead to enhanced awareness and implementation.
A Quantum-Based Similarity Method in Virtual Screening
Authors: Al-Dabbagh Mohammed , Salim Naomie , Himmat Mubarak , Ahmed Ali , Saeed Faisal
Published: October 2015

One of the most widely-used techniques for ligand-based virtual screening is similarity searching. This study adopted the concepts of quantum mechanics to present as state-of-the-art similarity method of molecules inspired from quantum theory. The representation of molecular compounds in mathematical quantum space plays a vital role in the development of quantum-based similarity approach. One of the key concepts of quantum theory is the use of complex numbers. Hence, this study proposed three various techniques to embed and to re-represent the molecular compounds to correspond with complex numbers format. The quantum-based similarity method that developed in this study depending on complex pure Hilbert space of molecules called Standard Quantum-Based (SQB). The recall of retrieved active molecules were at top 1% and top 5%, and significant test is used to evaluate our proposed methods. The MDL drug data report (MDDR), maximum unbiased validation (MUV) and Directory of Useful Decoys (DUD) data sets were used for experiments and were represented by 2D fingerprints. Simulated virtual screening experiment show that the effectiveness of SQB method was significantly increased due to the role of representational power of molecular compounds in complex numbers forms compared to Tanimoto benchmark similarity measure.
Monitoring Natural Ecosystem and Ecological Gradients: Perspectives with EnMAP
Authors: Leitão Pedro , Schwieder Marcel , Suess Stefan , Okujeni Akpona , Galvão Lênio , Linden Sebastian , Hostert Patrick
Published: October 2015

In times of global environmental change, the sustainability of human–environment systems is only possible through a better understanding of ecosystem processes. An assessment of anthropogenic environmental impacts depends upon monitoring natural ecosystems. These systems are intrinsically complex and dynamic, and are characterized by ecological gradients. Remote sensing data repeatedly collected in a systematic manner are suitable for describing such gradual changes over time and landscape gradients, e.g., through information on the vegetation’s phenology. Specifically, imaging spectroscopy is capable of describing ecosystem processes, such as primary productivity or leaf water content of vegetation. Future spaceborne imaging spectroscopy missions like the Environmental Mapping and Analysis Program (EnMAP) will repeatedly acquire high-quality data of the Earth’s surface, and will thus be extremely useful for describing natural ecosystems and the services they provide. In this conceptual paper, we present some of the preparatory research of the EnMAP Scientific Advisory Group (EnSAG) on natural ecosystems and ecosystem transitions. Through two case studies we illustrate the usage of spectral indices derived from multi-date imaging spectroscopy data at EnMAP scale, for mapping vegetation gradients. We thus demonstrate the benefit of future EnMAP data for monitoring ecological gradients and natural ecosystems.
Meteosat Land Surface Temperature Climate Data Record: Achievable Accuracy and Potential Uncertainties
Authors: Duguay-Tetzlaff Anke , Bento Virgílio , Göttsche Frank , Stöckli Reto , Martins João , Trigo Isabel , Olesen Folke , Bojanowski Jędrzej , Da Camara Carlos , Kunz Heike
Published: October 2015

The European Organization for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites’ (EUMETSAT) Meteosat satellites provide the unique opportunity to compile a 30+ year land surface temperature (LST) climate data record. Since the Meteosat instrument on-board Meteosat 2–7 is equipped with a single thermal channel, single-channel LST retrieval algorithms are used to ensure consistency across Meteosat satellites. The present study compares the performance of two single-channel LST retrieval algorithms: (1) A physical radiative transfer-based mono-window (PMW); and (2) a statistical mono-window model (SMW). The performance of the single-channel algorithms is assessed using a database of synthetic radiances for a wide range of atmospheric profiles and surface variables. The two single-channel algorithms are evaluated against the commonly-used generalized split-window (GSW) model. The three algorithms are verified against more than 60,000 LST ground observations with dry to very moist atmospheres (total column water vapor (TCWV) 1–56 mm). Except for very moist atmospheres (TCWV > 45 mm), results show that Meteosat single-channel retrievals match those of the GSW algorithm by 0.1–0.5 K. This study also outlines that it is possible to put realistic uncertainties on Meteosat single-channel LSTs, except for very moist atmospheres: simulated theoretical uncertainties are within 0.3–1.0 K of the in situ root mean square differences for TCWV < 45 mm.