bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From English to First-Price Sealed Bid: An Empirical Assessment of the Change in Auction Type on Experienced Bidders
Authors: Miller Joshua J.
Published: July 2014

This paper estimate the differential impact of first-price sealed-bid (first-price) auctions relative to English auctions on auction revenue. While there is a theoretical literature on the potential outcomes of first-price relative to English auction, there is a paucity of articles that empirically estimate this relationship. The answer to this question is important not only to economists but also those designing auction for practical application. Using a unique dataset from tax lien auctions in Illinois, I empirically test the effect of a switch in auction type from English to first-price. I find auction revenue is greatly increased, by as much as 22 percent, under the first-price auction. The results are supported by a within county difference-in-difference model specification and are robust when restricting the sample across various specifications
Some Notes on Historical, Theoretical, and Empirical Background of DSGE Models
Authors: Slanicay Martin
Published: July 2014

In this paper I present the historical, theoretical and empirical background of DSGE models. I show that the fundament of these models lies in optimizing agents framework and argue which impulses fueled the development of DSGE models. I demonstrate the evolution of DSGE models with an accent on the role and effects of the monetary policy, using distinction between RBC models and New Keynesian models. I explain the paradigm shift from the RBC models to the New Keynesian models by pointing out the main pitfalls of the RBC models and showing how adding nominal rigidities to the otherwise standard RBC models enhances empirical properties of these models. I also discuss how nominal rigidities are modeled in New Keynesian DSGE models and what the pros and cons of different approaches are. Finally, I review the most important New Keynesian theories of nominal rigidities and some of the empirical evidence on price and wage rigidities
Comparison of Urban and Suburban Rail Transport in Germany and in the Czech Republic
Authors: Seidenglanz Daniel , Chvátal Filip , Nedvedová Katerina
Published: July 2014

Rail transport is an environmentally friendly form of passenger transport which can be utilized effectively also in urban and suburban transport systems. The paper describes the urban and suburban rail transport system including comparison of selected Czech (Prague, Brno and Ostrava) and German metropolitan regions (Munich, Nuremberg and Dresden). Its aim is to analyze the importance of various factors influencing the differences between the situation in Germany and in the Czech Republic. Therefore, the research question is whether these differences are primarily caused by a different liberalization stage, or whether they are a result of other factors such as available infrastructure, investment level, rail transport services budget, structure and activity of ordering bodies and coordinators or geographical context. The supply of city and suburban rail transport is quite good in Germany and in the Czech Republic, although trains in Munich, Nuremberg and Dresden run more frequently, faster and are better interconnected with car transport. German rail transport sector is at a higher stage of liberalization, and tendering procedures are the preferred selection method for contractor carriers. However, a degree of liberalization of the railway sector is not the key marker indicating a better standard of urban and suburban rail transport in Germany because it is the high standard which is achieved as the consequence of the professional activity of the ordering bodies and train service coordinators in combination with geographical conditions, available financial sources and effective transport infrastructure. On the other hand, the importance of liberalization cannot be totally overlooked as tenders are a tool for the ordering bodies to strongly affect the price and quality of transport services in their area. The supply of better quality and attractive transport to passengers could increase the usage of rail transport in metropolitan regions and could have indirect but important socio-economic impacts
Endovascular management of dural fistulas into the cavernous sinus. A systematic review
Authors: Moscote-Salazar Luis Rafael , Zenteno Marco , Santos-Franco Jorge A. , Duarte-Valdivieso Nancy Carolina , Alvis-Miranda Hernando Raphael , Lee Angel
Published: July 2014

Background: Dural fistula to the cavernous sinus (DFCS) is an infrequent pathology that consists in the anomalous communication between the meningeal branches of the internal carotid artery (ICA) and/or the external carotid artery (ECA) and the cavernous sinus. Aim: To perform a systematic review to evaluate clinical and imaging findings in DFCS, and current indications for treatment.

Methods: A literature search was performed in several medical databases using the keywords “intracranial dural fistula”, “carotid-cavernous fistula”, “endovascular treatment”, associated with “outcome”; resulting articles were assessed by considering factors such as: number of patients treated, type of material used, complications, and type of image technique used for diagnosis.

Results: 33 articles were selected, yielding: clinical and imaging: The symptoms are basically related to the type of venous drainage of the fistula. The combination of ocular symptoms and tinnitus is highly suggestive of DFCS. Ocular symptoms are found in 80-97% of patients, while the tinnitus is present in up to 50% of cases. The imaging method for initial assessment of the DFCS is the magnetic resonance imaging. Digital subtraction angiography is the method of choice to determine adequately the precise angioarchitecture of the injury and its drainage. This data is of vital importance in future decision making. Treatment: Currently are considered as indications for the management of DFCS: 1) rapidly progressive deterioration of visual function, 2) angiographic evidence of abnormal cortical venous drainage, 3) the hypoxic consequences in retina and optic nerve, and 4) ischemic keratitis; the most suitable materials for embolization of the DFCS are CA and PAP.

Conclusion: DFCS stills being an uncommon cerebrovascular condition, with good outcomes from endovascular treatment.
Spinal meningiomas. Personal experience and review of literature
Authors: Iacob G.
Published: July 2014

Background: to present personal experience in the surgical management of spinal meningiomas, also the literature results review too.

Methods: 32 patients (4 men and 28 women) harboring spinal meningiomas who had undergone microsurgical resection were treated between 2002 and 2012 in our department. Clinical presentation, diagnosis, histological examination, microsurgical resection, functional outcome were evaluated, defining potential prognosis factors associated with these lesions.

Results: tumors site was intradural, extramedullary with different topography: the most common the thoracic region, posterolateral and antero-lateral. In all cases neurologic improvement was noted after operation, without instability, despite the extent of preoperative deficits. Transient motor deficits were observed in 2 thoracal anterior placed tumors without mortality. In 2 cases with semimaligne meningioma (6,25%) recurrence was noted at one and two years after first operation, initial diagnosis was transitional type meningioma.

Conclusion: benign spinal meningiomas should have always early diagnosis and microsurgical total resection for a good outcome. For semimalignant or even malignant cases, radiotherapy should be considered.
Traumatic pseudoaneurysm of Superficial Temporal Artery - a case report with review of literature
Authors: Jain Saurabh , Sharma Vinod , Mittal R.S.
Published: July 2014

Superficial temporal artery (STA) pseudoaneurysm is uncommon and usually is the result of trauma to the front temporal region. The appearance of a pulsatile preauricular mass chronologically related to trauma is highly suggestive of the diagnosis. Here we discuss a case of trauma to head presented with pseudoaneurysm of frontal branch of temporal artery and its management.
Predicting Response to Motor Control Exercises and Graded Activity for Patients With Low Back Pain: Preplanned Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Macedo Luciana Gazzi , Maher Christopher G. , Hancock Mark J. , Kamper Steve J. , McAuley James H. , Stanton Tasha R. , Stafford Ryan , Hodges Paul W.
Published: July 2014

Background

Current treatments for low back pain have small effects. A research priority is to identify patient characteristics associated with larger effects for specific interventions.

Objective

The aim of this study was to identify simple clinical characteristics of patients with chronic low back pain who would benefit more from either motor control exercises or graded activity.

Design

This study was a secondary analysis of the results of a randomized controlled trial.

Methods

One hundred seventy-two patients with chronic low back pain were enrolled in the trial, which was conducted in Australian physical therapy clinics. The treatment consisted of 12 initial exercise sessions over an 8-week period and booster sessions at 4 and 10 months following randomization. The putative effect modifiers (psychosocial features, physical activity level, walking tolerance, and self-reported signs of clinical instability) were measured at baseline. Measures of pain and function (both measured on a 0–10 scale) were taken at baseline and at 2, 6, and 12 months by a blinded assessor.

Results

Self-reported clinical instability was a statistically significant and clinically important modifier of treatment response for 12-month function (interaction: 2.72; 95% confidence interval=1.39 to 4.06). Participants with high scores on the clinical instability questionnaire (≥9) did 0.76 points better with motor control exercises, whereas those who had low scores (<9) did 1.93 points better with graded activity. Most other effect modifiers investigated did not appear to be useful in identifying preferential response to exercise type.

Limitations

The psychometric properties of the instability questionnaire have not been fully tested.

Conclusions

A simple 15-item questionnaire of features considered indicative of clinical instability can identify patients who respond best to either motor control exercises or graded activity.
Effectiveness of trivalent seasonal influenza vaccine in preventing laboratory-confirmed influenza in primary care in the United Kingdom: 2012/13 end of season results
Authors: Andrews N , McMenamin J , Durnall H , Ellis J , Lackenby A , Robertson C , von Wissmann B , Cottrell S , Smyth B , Moore C , Gunson R , Zambon M , Fleming D , Pebody R
Published: July 2014

Binary file ES_Abstracts_Final_ECDC.txt matches
Editorial
Authors: Bhattarai S
Published: July 2014

No abstract available.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njdvl.v12i1.10587  Nepal Journal of Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology Vol.12(1) 2014, page i
Management Of Childhood Lichen Planus
Authors: Thapa DM , Malathi M
Published: July 2014

Childhood lichen planus (LP) is a rare entity, with less than 2–3% of all cases seen in patients under 20 years of age. LP in childhood is common in subtropical countries such as India. The most common clinical type of LP in Indian children is the classic form. Approximately 1–15% of patients with LP demonstrate nail involvement, but disease of the nails without skin involvement is rare. LP is diagnosed by historical and physical findings, biopsy results, and, in some cases, features on direct immunofluorescence (DIF). LP tends to have a chronic course. Depending on disease severity, however, LP may respond to a combination of topical or systemic therapies. The response to therapy may be similar to that seen in adults. Moderately potent or super potent steroids are the treatment of choice. Topical steroids can be combined with oral steroids in tapering doses over 2-12 weeks period. This is useful for children with widespread involvement or cutaneous LP lesions associated with significant morbidity. Intralesional steroid is effective for hypertrophic LP unresponsive to topical steroids. Topical steroids in adhesive base used several times a day for several months is a treatment of choice for symptomatic oral LP. Topical steroids in combination with systemic steroids can be given in a tapering dose over 3-6 weeks in very symptomatic cases in early stages. In severe unresponsive cases of both cutaneous and oral LP, oral retnoids are the preferred option. Treatment options for the nail LP in young children are oral steroids given as tapering dose over 4-12 weeks and oral retinoids. Intralesional steroids as nail matrix injection are the third option for older children. Most pediatric patients with LP respond to treatment with full clearance over 1-6 months. Poor response to treatment is a feature of hypertrophic LP and lichen planopilaris. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njdvl.v12i1.10588 Nepal Journal of Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology Vol.12(1) 2014 pp.1-6
Understanding Of Nepalese Patients With Vitiligo About Their Disease
Authors: Agrawal S , Kumar A , Shyngwa PM
Published: July 2014

Introduction: Vitiligo, a pigmentary disorder, may influence considerably patients’ health-related quality of life (QoL) and psychological wellbeing. Previous reports indicated that the patients' illness understandings influence adherence behaviors and actions in various chronic dermatological conditions. Objectives: To know the understanding of Nepalese patients with vitiligo about their disease by using illness perception questionnaire and also to investigate the potential factors that might influence it. Material and Methods: The illness perception questionnaire consisting of 25 questions about causes, timeline, consequences and control of disease were given to 154 patients with vitiligo of 13 years or more age attending the dermatology OPD. Results: A total of 146 patients completed the questionnaire. The belief about the causes of vitiligo was considered as “germs or virus” by 64.4% patients while half of the patients believed that vitiligo was due to “chance or fate”. Vitiligo was considered to be a serious condition (83.6%) and have had serious consequences on their life (63%). Approximately half of the patients believed that their disease had serious economic and financial consequences more so in female patients and in those with generalized disease. Although 43.8% patients believed that their illness was likely to be permanent rather than temporary, 75% patients believed that vitiligo would improve with the time and their treatments were effective (75.3%). However, females felt that there were very little that could be done to improve their vitiligo. Conclusion: The knowledge about vitiligo is unsatisfactory and needs accessible, accurate, community based education about the natural history of vitiligo and the effectiveness of treatment. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njdvl.v12i1.10590 Nepal Journal of Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology Vol.12(1) 2014 pp.7-13
Pattern Of Sexually Transmitted Infections And Sexual Behavior In Patients With Genital Symptoms
Authors: Gyawalee M , Pokhrel DB
Published: July 2014

Background: Sexually transmitted infections are a major cause of acute illness, infertility, long-term disability, economic loss and death throughout the world. Despite the availability of effective treatment and preventive measures, incidence of STIs is increasing even in developed countries. STIs, acting as a facilitator for the spread of HIV have become a globally important issue at present context. Objectives: To determine the pattern of sexually transmitted infections along with their sexual behaviour in patients presenting with genital symptoms. Material and Methods: A cross sectional, descriptive study was carried out in the department of dermato-venereology, TUTH. During one year period, a total of 130 consecutive cases were enrolled in this study. The diagnosis of infections was made clinically with relevant laboratory investigations and they were interviewed for their sexual behaviour after taking consent and assuring confidentiality. Results: The average age of this population was 27.84 years. Majority belonged to age group 15-24 years, with male to female ratio of 3.19:1. Many (52.3%) were married. The most common infection was condyloma accuminata (29.2%). The mean age of sex debut was 18.95 years and majority (50.8%) belonged to 15-19 years group. The median number of life time partners was 2.0. Only 43 (33.1%) were on monogamous relationship. The 15-34 age groups had maximum number of sexual partners.  Married person living singly had more frequent extramarital contact. Only 10 (7.7%) used condom consistently. Conclusions: Younger people should be educated about monogamous relationship along with correct and consistent use of condom for the prevention of STIs DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njdvl.v12i1.10592 Nepal Journal of Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology Vol.12(1) 2014 pp.20-27
Henoch-Scholein Purpura (HSP): A Clinico-etiological Study
Authors: Kareem SN , Riyaz N
Published: July 2014

Background: Henoch–Schönlein (HSP) is a small vessel vasculitis affecting skin and internal organs.  Objectives: To determine the age group affected, etiological factors, clinical features, complications and association with other diseases. Methods: The study included 50 patients over a period of 3 years selected on the modified criteria by American College of Rheumatology. Clinical assessment was done and investigated for any focus of hidden infections especially Dental and ENT by respective departments. Associated conditions, complications and recurrence were also observed. Results: All patients had palpable purpura (pruritic in 58% and with hemorrhagic bullae in 6%) with upper respiratory tract prodrome (44%), joint involvement (94%) and gastrointestinal symptoms (90%). Precipitating factors were sore throat (74%), caries tooth (44%), drugs (30%) and food (16%) in varying combinations. On investigation 56% had raised ESR and 22% were with abnormal peripheral smears. All biopsies showed leucocytoclastic vasculitis. Occult blood in stool was detected in 10% and 2% showed Streptococci in throat swab culture. Renal involvement was 54% (RBC and albumin-42%, RBC alone-12%). One patient had intestinal perforation. Bleeding time, Clotting time, Platelet count, Cryoglobulin, ANA, Rheumatoid factor, HBs Ag, VDRL and X-ray chest were within normal limits. LE cell test was negative. Follow up study showed recurrence in 98%. Conclusion: HSP is a small vessel vasculitis in response to any unknown foreign or endogenous antigen. The age of onset varied from below 7 to 58 years, with most of them below 20. The most important clinical presentation was palpable purpura in lower extremities. GIT and joint involvement were more. Renal involvement found to be the most common complication. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njdvl.v12i1.10593 Nepal Journal of Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology Vol.12(1) 2014 pp.28-33
Dermatologic Manifestations In Chronic Kidney Disease Patients On Hemodialysis
Authors: Shrestha P , Mathur M
Published: July 2014

Introduction: Dermatologic changes are frequently seen in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. Early identification of these manifestations helps timely institution of treatment and prevention of progression of CKD. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency and pattern of dermatologic problems among CKD patients who are on maintenance hemodialysis in our population. Material and Methods: A hospital based cross sectional comparative study was conducted. Fifty patients with CKD on hemodialysis were compared with the same number of non CKD patients. All the patients were clinically examined. Complementary diagnostic measures such as skin biopsy, gram stain, potassium hydroxide mounting and culture sensitivity of the lesions were carried out when necessary. Results:  At least one dermatologic manifestation was present in 86% of the patients and changes were seen commonly in CKD patients who had GFR <15ml/min (83.8%). Cutaneous manifestations were significantly associated with CKD patients than control (p<0.001)  but  not with the duration of CKD and duration of hemodialysis. Thirty seven patients (74%) were having  cutaneous lesions, commonest being xerosis (52%) followed by pruritus (40%) and hyperpigmentation (32%). Nail, mucous membrane and hair changes were present in 56%, 22% and 12% respectively, commonest being white nail (30%), furred tongue (18%), telogen effluvium (10%) respectively. Conclusion: In our study, dermatologic manifestations were common in CKD patients with GFR <15ml/min. Cutaneous and nail changes were seen in 74% and 56% of the CKD patients undergoing  hemodialysis, commonest changes being xerosis and white nail respectively. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njdvl.v12i1.10594 Nepal Journal of Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology Vol.12(1) 2014 pp.34-40
Co-localization Of Alopecia Areata And Lichen Planus: Rare Presentation
Authors: Hassan I , Anwar P , Sajad P
Published: July 2014

Concurrence of alopecia areata and lichen planus, common dermatologic diseases in the general population, in the same patient is not uncommon and it has often been reported in the literature. But, anatomical coincidence of both diseases has rarely been reported. We report a case of co-localization of alopecia areata and lichen planus in a 30 year old male.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njdvl.v12i1.10596 Nepal Journal of Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology Vol.12(1) 2014 pp.45-47
A Case of Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Skin Subsequent to Subcutaneous Foreign Body
Authors: Anwar P , Mubashir S , Hassa I , Arif T
Published: July 2014

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the skin is one of the most common non melanoma skin cancers (NMSC), along with basal cell carcinoma (BCC). Besides ultraviolet radiation, the role of exposure to industrial agents, ionizing radiation and areas of chronic inflammation is associated with the development of SCC. SCC may also be associated with foreign bodies. We report a rare case of cutaneous SCC in an elderly Kashmiri female, developing subsequent to subcutaneous non metallic foreign body, which was successfully excised with negative margins, and transposition flap closure. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njdvl.v12i1.10604 Nepal Journal of Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology Vol.12(1) 2014 pp.53-55
Effect of Cr and Mo doping on the electrochemical properties of freeze-dried LiCoO2
Authors: Büyükburç Atıl , Aydinol Mehmet Kadri
Published: July 2014

In this study, LiCoO2 is doped with 2 mol.% Cr and Mo in order to determine the effect of these elements on the electrochemical performance. Precursors are synthesized by means of freeze drying. Calcination is applied at 750 °C for 24 h. Doping content and calcination temperature as well as duration are very important for producing impurity-free layered LiCoO2. If the doping content is larger than 2 mol.% or when the calcination temperature is decreased to 550 °C, impurity phases are seen. As a result, the sample doped with 2 mol.% Cr has better high charge and discharge rate capability, and cycleability, but discharge capacity is slightly lowered when compared to the undoped sample. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy results show that surface film resistances of Cr-doped samples are lower than that of the undoped sample.
Tribological behavior of Fe3Al-60 wt.% Fe3AlC0.5 composite under air and vacuum conditions
Authors: Kang Yonghai , Hao Junying , Qiao Zhuhui , Fu Licai , Liu Weimin , Yang Jun
Published: July 2014

The tribological behavior of Fe3Al composite with 60 wt.% Fe3AlC0.5 under air and vacuum was studied. The composite exhibited a lower wear rate but somewhat higher friction coefficient under air than vacuum. The wear rates increased and the friction coefficients decreased with increasing the applied load under both conditions. The sub-layer of the worn surface under vacuum suffered from severe plastic deformation. This was not the case under air due to protection by surface oxide films. The dominant wear mechanisms were plastic deformation and adhesion under vacuum and oxidative wear and slight delamination under air.
Casting process optimization of a bimetal wear-resistant block using liquid–solid processing
Authors: Zhi Xiaohu , Han Yanjun , Liu Jinzhi , Zhao Meng , Ma Shengqiang
Published: July 2014

The casting process design and production process of a bimetal wear-resistant block using liquid–solid processing are introduced in this paper. The mold-filling and solidification stages of the casting were numerically analyzed and optimized using ProCAST software. By modifying the original process, the shrinkage cavity at the top of the casting was eliminated and a good quality casting was obtained. The results of ultrasonic non-destructive inspection and a cut-open-check indicated that there was no shrinkage cavity in castings produced according to the modified casting process. The cut-open-check and practical applications also indicated that the bond between the matrix and wear-resistant part was very reliable.
Phase equilibria studies of the “MnO”–Al2O3–SiO2 system in equilibrium with metallic alloy. Part 1: Development of the technique and determination of liquidus isotherms between 1 423 K and 1 523 K
Authors: Haccuria Elien , Hayes Peter C. , Jak Evgueni
Published: July 2014

Phase equilibria in the “MnO”–Al2O3–SiO2 pseudo-ternary system in equilibrium with metallic alloy have been experimentally investigated in the temperature range from 1 423 K to 1 523 K. This study is a part of a broader research program on the phase equilibria in the Al2O3–CaO–Li2O–“MnO”–SiO2 system, which is of importance to the slags used in a novel pyrometallurgical process for recycling of electric car batteries. The experimental procedures involve equilibration of high purity powder mixtures at high temperatures, rapid quenching, and accurate measurement of phase compositions using electron probe X-ray microanalysis, which allow the slag liquidus temperatures to be determined. This paper is part 1 of a series of two papers and focuses on the improvement of the experimental methodology. A number of elementary reactions taking place in the samples have been identified, including the formation of a tridymite ring around the alloy particles, manganese oxidation and manganese vaporization. This enabled relevant modifications to the experimental methodology to be introduced. The liquidus at 1 423 K, 1 473 K and 1 523 K in the high silica area and the solid solubility data in the tridymite and rhodonite phases have been reported.
Value-based neurosurgery: measuring and reducing the cost of microvascular decompression surgery
Authors: McLaughlin Nancy , Upadhyaya Pooja , Buxey Farzad , Martin Neil A.
Published: July 2014

Object

Care providers have put significant effort into optimizing patient safety and quality of care. Value, defined as meaningful outcomes achieved per dollar spent, is emerging as a promising framework to redesign health care. Scarce data exist regarding cost measurement and containment for episodes of neurosurgical care. The authors assessed how cost measurement and strategic containment could be used to optimize the value of delivered care after the implementation and maturation of quality improvement initiatives.

Methods

A retrospective study of consecutive patients undergoing microvascular decompression was performed. Group 1 comprised patients treated prior to the implementation of quality improvement interventions, and Group 2 consisted of those treated after the implementation and maturation of quality improvement processes. A third group, Group 3, represented a contemporary group studied after the implementation of cost containment interventions targeting the three most expensive activities: pre-incision time in the operating room (OR) and total OR time, intraoperative neuromonitoring (IOM), and bed assignment (and overall length of stay [LOS]). The value of care was assessed for all three groups.

Results

Forty-four patients were included in the study. Average preparation time pre-incision decreased from 73 to 65 to 45 minutes in Groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The average total OR time and OR cost were 434 minutes and $8513 in Group 1; 348 minutes and $7592 in Group 2; and 407 minutes and $8333 in Group 3. The average cost for IOM, excluding electrode needles, was $1557, $1585, and $1263, respectively, in Groups 1, 2, and 3. Average total cost for bed assignment was $5747, $5198, and $4535, respectively, in Groups 1, 2, and 3. The average total LOS decreased from 3.16 days in Group 1 to 2.14 days in Group 3. Complete relief of or a significant decrease in preoperative symptomatology was achieved in 42 of the 44 patients, respectively. Overall, the average cost of a surgical care episode (index hospitalization + readmission/reoperation) decreased 25% from Group 1 to 3.

Conclusions

Linking cost-containment and cost-reduction strategies to ongoing outcome improvement measures is an important step toward the optimization of value-based delivery of care.
Trigeminal neuralgia caused by a trigeminocerebellar artery
Authors: Amagasaki Kenichi , Abe Shoko , Watanabe Saiko , Naemura Kazuaki , Nakaguchi Hiroshi
Published: July 2014

This 31-year-old woman presented with typical right trigeminal neuralgia caused by a trigeminocerebellar artery, manifesting as pain uncontrollable with medical treatment. Preoperative neuroimaging studies demonstrated that the offending artery had almost encircled the right trigeminal nerve. This finding was confirmed intraoperatively, and decompression was completed. The neuralgia resolved after the surgery; the patient had slight transient hypesthesia, which fully resolved within the 1st month after surgery. The neuroimaging and intraoperative findings showed that the offending artery directly branched from the upper part of the basilar artery and, after encircling and supplying tiny branches to the nerve root, maintained its diameter and coursed toward the rostral direction of the cerebellum, which indicated that the artery supplied both the trigeminal nerve and the cerebellum. The offending artery was identified as the trigeminocerebellar artery. This case of trigeminal neuralgia caused by a trigeminocerebellar artery indicates that this variant is important for a better understanding of the vasculature of the trigeminal nerve root.
Magnetoencephalography helps delineate the extent of the epileptogenic zone for surgical planning in children with intractable epilepsy due to porencephalic cyst/encephalomalacia
Authors: Bennett-Back Odeya , Ochi Ayako , Widjaja Elysa , Nambu Shohei , Kamiya Akio , Go Cristina , Chuang Sylvester , Rutka James T. , Drake James , Snead O. Carter , Otsubo Hiroshi
Published: July 2014

Object

Porencephalic cyst/encephalomalacia (PC/E) is a brain lesion caused by ischemic insult or hemorrhage. The authors evaluated magnetoencephalography (MEG) spike sources (MEGSS) to localize the epileptogenic zone in children with intractable epilepsy secondary to PC/E.

Methods

The authors retrospectively studied 13 children with intractable epilepsy secondary to PC/E (5 girls and 8 boys, age range 1.8–15 years), who underwent prolonged scalp video-electroencephalography (EEG), MRI, and MEG. Interictal MEGSS locations were compared with the ictal and interictal zones as determined from scalp video-EEG.

Results

Magnetic resonance imaging showed PC/E in extratemporal lobes in 3 patients, within the temporal lobe in 2 patients, and in both temporal and extratemporal lobes in 8 patients. Magnetoencephalographic spike sources were asymmetrically clustered at the margin of PC/E in all 13 patients. One cluster of MEGSS was observed in 11 patients, 2 clusters in 1 patient, and 3 clusters in 1 patient. Ictal EEG discharges were lateralized and concordant with MEGSS in 8 patients (62%). Interictal EEG discharges were lateralized and concordant with MEGSS hemisphere in 9 patients (69%). Seven patients underwent lesionectomy in addition to MEGSS clusterectomy with (2 patients) and without (5 patients) intracranial video-EEG. Temporal lobectomy was performed in 1 patient and hemispherectomy in another. Eight of 9 patients achieved seizure freedom following surgery.

Conclusions

Magnetoencephalography delineated the extent of the epileptogenic zone adjacent to PC/E in patients with intractable epilepsy. Complete resection of the MEGSS cluster along with PC/E can provide favorable seizure outcomes.
A retrospective study of iliac crest bone grafting techniques with allograft reconstruction: do patients even know which iliac crest was harvested?
Authors: Pirris Stephen M. , Nottmeier Eric W. , Kimes Sherri , O'Brien Michael , Rahmathulla Gazanfar
Published: July 2014

Object

Considerable biological research has been performed to aid bone healing in conjunction with lumbar fusion surgery. Iliac crest autograft is often considered the gold standard because it has the vital properties of being osteoconductive, osteoinductive, and osteogenic. However, graft site pain has been widely reported as the most common donor site morbidity. Autograft site pain has led many companies to develop an abundance of bone graft extenders, which have limited proof of efficacy. During the surgical consent process, many patients ask surgeons to avoid harvesting autograft because of the reported pain complications. The authors sought to study postoperative graft site pain by simply asking patients whether they knew which iliac crest was grafted when a single skin incision was made for the fusion operation.

Methods

Twenty-five patients underwent iliac crest autografting with allograft reconstruction during instrumented lumbar fusion surgery. In all patients the autograft was harvested through the same skin incision but with a separate fascial incision. At various points postoperatively, the patients were asked if they could tell which iliac crest had been harvested, and if so, how much pain did it cause (10-point Numeric Rating Scale).

Results

Most patients (64%) could not correctly determine which iliac crest had been harvested. Of the 9 patients who correctly identified the side of the autograft, 7 were only able to guess. The 2 patients who confidently identified the side of grafting had no pain at rest and mild pain with activity. One patient who incorrectly guessed the side of autografting did have significant sacroiliac joint degenerative pain bilaterally.

Conclusions

Results of this study indicate the inability of patients to clearly define their graft site after iliac crest autograft harvest with allograft reconstruction of the bony defect unless they have a separate skin incision. This simple, easily reproducible pilot study can be expanded into a larger, multiinstitutional investigation to provide more definitive answers regarding the ideal, safe, and cost-effective bone graft material to be used in spinal fusions.
Navigations and Negotiations: Examining the (Post)Colonial Landscape of The Assam Garden
Authors: Brydon Lavinia
Published: July 2014

The purpose of this article is to foreground the idea of the garden as a cinematic space predicated on its ability to accommodate movement, both in a literal and metaphorical sense. Fuelled by Doreen Massey and Karen Lury's exchange in the 1999 Space/Place/City themed issue of Screen, especially Massey's assertion that investigations of the cinematic city should not be at the expense of other sites of interest, I use The Assam Garden (1985), directed by Mary McMurray, as a British case study to explore the garden's inherent mobility. Importantly, I consider this spatial quality in both aesthetic and ideological terms. Drawing inspiration from a variety of scholarship, including Martin Lefebvre's investigation of the cinematic landscape (2006) and Edward Said's theories of Orientalist discourse (1978), I thus question the Assam garden's function as setting, spectacle and social space and, in particular, whether it can transcend the initial meanings ascribed to it by the fixed male gaze of a colonial official. By connecting the garden specifically to the large-scale movements of colonial and postcolonial journeys I ultimately seek to persuade that this space is fundamentally cinematic and deserves further examination.
The Struggle for History: Lindsay Anderson Teaches Free Cinema
Authors: Hedling Erik
Published: July 2014

In spring 1986, Lindsay Anderson appeared in a television programme on British cinema. This was part of a series of three under the heading British Cinema: Personal View, produced by Thames Television. Anderson's contribution, Free Cinema 1956–? An Essay on Film by Lindsay Anderson, was written and directed by him. He was also the star of the programme, providing a lecture on the history of British cinema with himself at the very core, although, at the time of the production, Anderson's career was in decline and he was not involved in any film projects. Drawing on press materials, the programme itself and Anderson's personal papers in the University of Stirling library, this article analyses Anderson's personal conception of Free Cinema – according to his understanding, a short-lived documentary movement in the 1950s which eventually transformed itself into a series of feature films in the ensuing decades, particularly his own trilogy If…. (1968), O Lucky Man! (1973) and Britannia Hospital (1982). The polemic in the programme was particularly aimed at the general idea of the British Film Year of 1985 and at the successful film producer David Puttnam, at the time well known for his contribution to what was sometimes called the ‘New British Cinema’ of the 1980s. Anderson, however, dismissed Puttnam as a film-maker concerned only with Oscars and economic success, and instead lauded the qualities of ‘Free Cinema’, a realist, non-conformist and radical aesthetic, as the most artistically rewarding tradition in British cinema. The programme was highly entertaining and was generally well received by the British press, but did not really strengthen Anderson's position within the British film industry, which might, or might not, have been Anderson's intention.
‘What we are up against’: Lindsay Anderson and The Old Crowd
Authors: Sutcliffe Tom
Published: July 2014

Drawing on the invaluable experience of watching Lindsay Anderson at work and on lengthy interviews with the director, this article traces the production history and critical reception of The Old Crowd, an Alan Bennett play which Anderson directed for London Weekend Television in 1979. In so doing it paints a picture of an ITV environment very different from that of today, one in which there was far more scope for formal experimentation and innovation, but it also demonstrates all too clearly the critical hostility and incomprehension which greeted directors like Anderson who were determined to take advantage of this relatively liberal climate in order to stretch the medium to its limits.
Pressure Model of Control Valve Based on LS-SVM with the Fruit Fly Algorithm
Authors: Aiqin Huang , Yong Wang
Published: July 2014

Control valve is a kind of essential terminal control component which is hard to model by traditional methodologies because of its complexity and nonlinearity. This paper proposes a new modeling method for the upstream pressure of control valve using the least squares support vector machine (LS-SVM), which has been successfully used to identify nonlinear system. In order to improve the modeling performance, the fruit fly optimization algorithm (FOA) is used to optimize two critical parameters of LS-SVM. As an example, a set of actual production data from a controlling system of chlorine in a salt chemistry industry is applied. The validity of LS-SVM modeling method using FOA is verified by comparing the predicted results with the actual data with a value of MSE 2.474 × 10−3. Moreover, it is demonstrated that the initial position of FOA does not affect its optimal ability. By comparison, simulation experiments based on PSO algorithm and the grid search method are also carried out. The results show that LS-SVM based on FOA has equal performance in prediction accuracy. However, from the respect of calculation time, FOA has a significant advantage and is more suitable for the online prediction.
MicroRNA-421 Dysregulation is Associated with Tetralogy of Fallot
Authors: Bittel Douglas , Kibiryeva Nataliya , Marshall Jennifer , O'Brien James
Published: July 2014

The importance of microRNAs for maintaining stability in the developing vertebrate heart has recently become apparent. In addition, there is a growing appreciation for the significance of microRNAs in developmental pathology, including the formation of congenital heart defects. We examined the expression of microRNAs in right ventricular (RV) myocardium from infants with idiopathic tetralogy of Fallot (TOF, without a 22q11.2 deletion), and found 61 microRNAs to be significantly changed in expression in myocardium from children with TOF compared to normally developing comparison subjects (O’Brien et al. 2012). Predicted targets of microRNAs with altered expression were enriched for gene networks that regulate cardiac development. We previously derived a list of 229 genes known to be critical to heart development, and found 44 had significantly changed expression in TOF myocardium relative to normally developing myocardium. These 44 genes had significant negative correlations with 33 microRNAs, each of which also had significantly changed expression. Here, we focus on miR-421, as it is significantly upregulated in RV tissue from infants with TOF; is predicted to interact with multiple members of cardiovascular regulatory pathways; and has been shown to regulate cell proliferation. We knocked down, and over expressed miR-421 in primary cells derived from the RV of infants with TOF, and infants with normally developing hearts, respectively. We found a significant inverse correlation between the expression of miR-421 and SOX4, a key regulator of the Notch pathway, which has been shown to be important for the cardiac outflow track. These findings suggest that the dysregulation of miR-421 warrants further investigation as a potential contributor to tetralogy of Fallot.
Temperature-Dependent Phase Transition in Orthorhombic [011]c Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3) O3-0.35PbTiO3 Single Crystal
Authors: He Wenhui , Li Qiang , Yan Qingfeng , Luo Nengneng , Zhang Yiling , Chu Xiangcheng , Shen Dezhong
Published: July 2014

Relaxor [011]c PMN-0.35PT single crystal phase transition characteristics are investigated through various methods including variable temperature dielectric properties, X-ray diffraction, bipolar ferroelectric hysteresis loops (P-E) and electric-field-induced strain (S-E) hysteresis loops measurements. The results reveal that two phase transitions exist within the range from room temperature to 250 °C: orthorhombic (O)-tetragonal (T)-cubic (C). The O-to-T and T-to-C phase transition temperatures have been identified as 84 °C and 152 °C, respectively. Diffuseness degree of the T-to-C phase transition for the unpoled single crystal has been calculated to be 1.56, implying an intermediate state between normal and relaxor ferroelectrics. Temperature-dependent remanent polarization (Pr), coercive field (Ec), saturation polarization (Ps), hysteresis loop squareness (Rsq), and longitudinal piezoelectric constant (d* 33) are also explored to learn the details of the phase transitions. Variable temperature unipolar Suni-E hysteresis loops avail additional evidence for the microstructure change in the as-measured single crystal.
Diversity of Secondary Metabolites in the Genus Silene L. (Caryophyllaceae)—Structures, Distribution, and Biological Properties
Authors: Mamadalieva Nilufar , Lafont Rene , Wink Michael
Published: July 2014

The genus Silene (family Caryophyllaceae) comprises more than 700 species, which are widely distributed in temperate zones of the Northern Hemisphere, but are also present in Africa and have been introduced in other continents. Silene produces a high diversity of secondary metabolites and many of them show interesting biological and pharmacological activities. More than 450 compounds have been isolated; important classes include phytoecdysteroids (which mimic insect molting hormones), triterpene saponins (with detergent properties), volatiles, other terpenoids and phenolics. This review focusses on the phytochemical diversity, distribution of Silene secondary metabolites and their biological activities.
Phase Competitions behind the Giant Magnetic Entropy Variation: Gd5Si2Ge2 and Tb5Si2Ge2 Case Studies
Authors: Pires Ana , Belo João , Lopes Armandina , Gomes Isabel , Morellón Luis , Magen Cesar , Algarabel Pedro , Ibarra Manuel , Pereira André , Araújo João
Published: July 2014

Magnetic materials with strong spin-lattice coupling are a powerful set of candidates for multifunctional applications because of their multiferroic, magnetocaloric (MCE), magnetostrictive and magnetoresistive effects. In these materials there is a strong competition between two states (where a state comprises an atomic and an associated magnetic structure) that leads to the occurrence of phase transitions under subtle variations of external parameters, such as temperature, magnetic field and hydrostatic pressure. In this review a general method combining detailed magnetic measurements/analysis and first principles calculations with the purpose of estimating the phase transition temperature is presented with the help of two examples (Gd5Si2Ge2 and Tb5Si2Ge2). It is demonstrated that such method is an important tool for a deeper understanding of the (de)coupled nature of each phase transition in the materials belonging to the R5(Si,Ge)4 family and most possibly can be applied to other systems. The exotic Griffiths-like phase in the framework of the R5(SixGe1-x)4 compounds is reviewed and its generalization as a requisite for strong phase competitions systems that present large magneto-responsive properties is proposed.
Large-Scale Mapping of Carbon Stocks in Riparian Forests with Self-Organizing Maps and the k-Nearest-Neighbor Algorithm
Authors: Suchenwirth Leonhard , Stümer Wolfgang , Schmidt Tobias , Förster Michael , Kleinschmit Birgit
Published: July 2014

Among the machine learning tools being used in recent years for environmental applications such as forestry, self-organizing maps (SOM) and the k-nearest neighbor (kNN) algorithm have been used successfully. We applied both methods for the mapping of organic carbon (Corg) in riparian forests due to their considerably high carbon storage capacity. Despite the importance of floodplains for carbon sequestration, a sufficient scientific foundation for creating large-scale maps showing the spatial Corg distribution is still missing. We estimated organic carbon in a test site in the Danube Floodplain based on RapidEye remote sensing data and additional geodata. Accordingly, carbon distribution maps of vegetation, soil, and total Corg stocks were derived. Results were compared and statistically evaluated with terrestrial survey data for outcomes with pure remote sensing data and for the combination with additional geodata using bias and the Root Mean Square Error (RMSE). Results show that SOM and kNN approaches enable us to reproduce spatial patterns of riparian forest Corg stocks. While vegetation Corg has very high RMSEs, outcomes for soil and total Corg stocks are less biased with a lower RMSE, especially when remote sensing and additional geodata are conjointly applied. SOMs show similar percentages of RMSE to kNN estimations.