bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pay-As-You-Go: How a Business Model Is Helping Light Millions of Rural Kenyan Homes with Solar
Authors: Carr-Wilson Savannah , Pai Sandeep
Published: November 2018

The government of Kenya has been trying to expand the electricity grid for decades, with little success—80% of Kenyans are still living without access to the grid. An alternative solution, off-grid solar lighting products, such as solar lanterns and solar home systems, increasingly provide Kenyans with decentralized clean energy. Kenya’s private sector market for off-grid solar lighting products has been developing since the 1980s, yet the key to rapid market growth was the introduction of a pioneering pay-as-you-go business model in 2011 that made solar products affordable for poor rural customers. Today, with almost 30% of all off-grid households using some type of off-grid solar lighting products, Kenya is a market leader. Other factors that have encouraged market growth include the massive need for power in areas where grid electricity is not available, the high cost and unreliability of grid power where it is available, a value-added tax exemption on solar products, numerous education and awareness campaigns, and expensive kerosene. However, poor quality products present a major challenge. This challenge will have to be overcome for the market to reach its full potential and to ensure that these products represent an effective and lasting lighting solution.
The Role of Maternal HP1a in Early Drosophila Embryogenesis via Regulation of Maternal Transcript Production
Authors: Park Ah Rume , Liu Na , Neuenkirchen Nils , Guo Qiaozhi , Lin Haifan
Published: November 2018

Heterochromatin protein 1a (HP1a) is a highly conserved and versatile epigenetic factor that can both silence and activate transcription. However, the function of HP1a in development has been underinvestigated. Here, we report the role of maternal HP1a in producing maternal transcripts that drive early Drosophila embryogenesis. Maternal HP1a upregulates genes involved in translation, mRNA splicing, and cell division, but downregulates genes involved in neurogenesis, organogenesis, and germline development, which all occur later in development. Our study reveals the earliest contribution of HP1a during oogenesis in regulating the production of maternal transcripts that drive early Drosophila embryogenesis.
Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in Infants With Birth Weight ≤500 g at 3 Years of Age
Authors: Inoue Hirosuke , Ochiai Masayuki , Sakai Yasunari , Yasuoka Kazuaki , Tanaka Koichi , Ichiyama Masako , Kurata Hiroaki , Fujiyoshi Junko , Matsushita Yuki , Honjo Satoshi , Nonaka Kazuaki , Taguchi Tomoaki , Kato Kiyoko , Ohga Shouichi ,   on behalf of the Neonatal Research Network of Japan
Published: November 2018

OBJECTIVES:

To determine neurodevelopmental outcomes at 3 years of age in children born with a birth weight (BW) of ≤500 g.

METHODS:

Infants who were born with a BW of ≤500 g from 2003 to 2012 in the Neonatal Research Network of Japan and survived to discharge from the NICU were eligible in this study. The study population consisted of 460 children (56.7% of 811 surviving infants) who were evaluated at 36 to 42 months of age. Neurodevelopmental impairment (NDI) was defined as having cerebral palsy, visual impairment, hearing impairment, or a developmental quotient score of <70.

RESULTS:

The overall proportion of NDI was 59.1% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 54.6%–63.5%). The trend revealed no significant change during the study period. In a multivariate modified Poisson regression analysis, NDI was associated with severe intraventricular hemorrhage (adjusted risk ratio [RR]: 1.42; 95% CI: 1.19–1.68; P < .01), cystic periventricular leukomalacia (adjusted RR: 1.40; 95% CI: 1.13–1.73; P < .01), severe necrotizing enterocolitis (adjusted RR: 1.31; 95% CI: 1.07–1.60; P < .01), surgical ligation for patent ductus arteriosus (adjusted RR: 1.29; 95% CI: 1.09–1.54; P < .01), and male sex (adjusted RR: 1.19; 95% CI: 1.01–2.40; P = .04).

CONCLUSIONS:

This cohort showed that neurodevelopmental outcomes of infants with a BW of ≤500 g have not improved from 2003 to 2012. Multivariate analysis revealed that severe intracranial hemorrhage and cystic periventricular leukomalacia were the strongest risk factors for NDIs. Our data suggested that measures aimed at reducing neurologic morbidities will be important for improving outcomes of infants with a BW of ≤500 g.
Long-term seasonal forwards in electricity generation markets: an application to Colombia
Authors: Lopez Lezama Jesus , Tobon David , Velilla Esteban , Barrientos Jorge , Villada Fernando
Published: November 2018

Seasonal components have been found in the price of most commodities, where prices are largely determined by the anticipation of seasonal demand and/or supply. This paper presents a methodology to determine seasonal forward prices in the electricity generation markets. A Cournot competition to characterize this market is assumed. Forward prices are calculated in accordance with the demand elasticity of the forwards and spot price through a differential or “gap” that represents the risk premium for the current forwards, plus some non-observable heterogeneities. The distribution of the given quantities in seasonal contracts is carried out through the classic portfolio theory. This methodology is applied to the Colombian case, and shows that it will be more profitable for generators to sell the proposed seasonal hydric forwards.
Términos de Intercambio, cuenta capital y el modelo de crecimiento restringido por la balanza de pagos: un análisis empírico
Authors: Médici Florencia
Published: November 2018

Este artículo se enmarca en los estudios del crecimiento económico restringido por el sector externo en economías con estructuras heterogéneas. Siguiendo el trabajo reciente de Médici y Panigo (2015), se busca brindar evidencia empírica sobre la existencia de efectos omitidos de los términos de intercambio (TDI) en la balanza de pagos de economías concentradas en la explotación de recursos naturales. Según este modelo, la mejora de los TDI no solo tiene efectos positivos al relajar la restricción externa por la cuenta corriente, sino también efectos negativos mediante la salida de divisas por la cuenta capital.
Gel Electrophoresis - TBE 0.5X v1
Authors: Abbà Simona
Published: November 2018

Separates molecules based on size.
MALDI-TOF MS preparation for identification of mosquitoes v3
Authors: L. Lawrence Andrea , Laroche Maureen , Batovska Jana , E. Webb Cameron , E. Lynch Stacey , J. Blacket Mark , Šlapeta Jan , Parola Philippe
Published: November 2018

MALDI-TOF MS specimen preparation for rapid identification of Australian mosquitoes
Y Choice test invertebrate v2
Authors: Richard Freddie-Jeanne
Published: November 2018

Y choice test designed for terrestrial invertebrase
Biomedical Scent Detection Dogs: Would They Pass as a Health Technology?
Authors: Reeve Catherine , Koivusalo Mirkka
Published: November 2018

Biomedical scent detection dogs identify the scent profiles of diseases, such as cancer, diabetes or pathogenic micro-organisms.  What the field of biomedical scent detection has been lacking, however, is the assessment of the method from the point of view of a health technology. All health technologies undergo a thorough evaluation of safety, clinical effectiveness and costs, as well as ethical, social, organizational and legal evaluations in some cases. Passing these regulatory controls is a pre-requisite before a technology is approved for use in decision-making about patient outcomes. Biomedical scent detection has a lot of attractive qualities, such as the sensitivity and specificity of the dogs’ noses, safety and relative cost-effectiveness. But the method also has various challenges, in particular regarding its clinical effectiveness. The most pertinent issues to address before the dogs would pass as a health technology are standardization the training techniques, both intra- and inter-dog reproducibility, and generalization of the detection task to early stages of disease progression. We suggest setting realistic goals in terms of what the dogs can and cannot do and a collaborative approach between clinicians and animal psychophysicists.
The Ascent of Mineralocorticoid Receptor Antagonists in Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Goenka Luxitaa , Padmanaban Raghavan , George Melvin
Published: November 2018

Diabetic nephropathy is defined as a decline in the renal function and an increase in the amount of albuminuria (>300 mg/day). The interruption of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) by well-established therapies such as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor, angiotensin receptor blockers, calcium channel blockers or diuretics has been beneficial in reducing the progression of renal diseases; however, there is an increase in the levels of aldosterone due to the aldosterone escape phenomenon. Newer and novel approaches to counteract this aldosterone breakthrough while accentuating the anti-hypertensive and anti-proteinuric effects of these agents would be ideal and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists fit in this slot perfectly. This review attempted to evaluate the safety and efficacy of and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists for diabetic nephropathy. Presently mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists such as spironolactone, eplerenone and finerenone are being investigated as both monotherapies and as additional therapies. Clinical studies have shown that these drugs have been effective in the reduction of blood pressure, urinaryalbumin- excretion and estimated glomerular filtration rate. The commonly observed adverse effects are hyperkalemia, gynaecomastia and vaginal bleeding, that are bothersome with spironolactone seems to be avoidable if these patients are switched to non-steroidal and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists such as finerenone and eplerenone. Most of the studies have only evaluated the shortterm effects of mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists on diabetic nephropathy. Hard outcomes such as cardiovascular events, creatinine doubling, progression to end-stage renal disease, mortality and the need for temporary or permanent dialysis need to be studied with these molecules.
Diabetes Association with Liver Diseases: An Overview for Clinicians
Authors: Hamed Abd Elkhalek , Elwan Nadia , Naguib Mervat , Elwakil Reda , Esmat Gamal , El Kassas Mohamed , Abd-Elsalam Sherief , Moussa Shorouk
Published: November 2018

Background:

There is a strong association between liver diseases and diabetes (DM) which is higher than expected by a correlation between two very common diseases. Liver diseases may occur as a result of diabetes, and the reverse is true as well.

Aim:

To review the etiology of this association between liver diseases and diabetes and how to diagnose it.

Methods:

Studies that identified this association between liver diseases and diabetes and how to diagnose it was reviewed.

Results:

his association can be divided into the following categories: liver disease related to diabetes (Diabetic hepatopathy), hepatogenous diabetes (HD), and liver diseases that occur in conjunction with Diabetes mellitus. Two hours after glucose loading is the best screening test for HD. HbA1c may neither be suitable for diagnosis nor monitoring of diabetes that links liver disease.

Conclusion:

NAFLD, hepatogenous diabetes, glycogenic hepatopathy and diabetic hepatosclerosis are the most important association between liver diseases and diabetes. The criteria for the diagnosis of diabetes associating liver disease are the same for primary diabetes. Two hours post glucose load is the best screening test for HD due to the fact that fasting glucose can be normal early in the disease. The tool used for diabetes monitoring depends on stage and severity of liver condition.
Violencia de género en el deporte: un análisis desde el ordenamiento jurídico ecuatoriano
Authors: Arguello Saltos Edgar Joselito
Published: November 2018

El presente artículo tiene como objetivo valorar la regulación jurídica de la violencia de género en el deporte en ordenamiento jurídico ecuatoriano. Está estructurado en tres partes fundamentales la primera explica el problema de la violencia de género en el deporte las peculiaridades de este fenómeno, y sus principales formas de expresión, la segunda es el tratamiento que este fenómeno merece desde el ámbito de las políticas públicas y por último, como el ordenamiento jurídico puede hacer frente a esta situación, en especial desde el ámbito penal como derecho de última ratio. Este tema alcanza medular importancia ante el desarrollo de la rama del Derecho Deportivo y la importancia que adquiere en la práctica jurídica y su regulación en diversos países del continente. Para su realización se utilizaron como principales métodos de investigación exegético–analítico, jurídico comparado y la técnica de investigación, análisis de documentos.
En cuidado como derecho. Un camino virtuoso, un desafío inmediato
Authors: Cecilia Pautassi Laura
Published: November 2018

El presente artículo analiza el recorrido para el reconocimiento del cuidado como un derecho humano y su posterior incorporación en Pactos y Tratados internacionales y en marcos constitucionales, como el caso de la reciente Constitución de la Ciudad de México. En base a la metodología provista por el enfoque de derechos humanos, se analiza cómo se logró dicho reconocimiento, su alcance, los estándares necesarios para garantizarlo, como también las formas de medición de su cumplimiento a partir de indicadores de progreso. Finaliza el trabajo considerando ciertos recaudos a considerar en su implementación y posibles acciones a desarrollar para lograr su ejercicio efectivo.
CONTROLLED DRUG RELEASE OF GRAFTED PECTIN
Authors: Firyal Mohammed Ali , Hameed Muthanna Ahmed
Published: November 2018

Modification of Pectin as natural polymer was accepted as new bio adhesive polymer, which was grafted with Maleic anhydride as vinylic monomore and insertion by using ceric ion it, was substituted with amino drugs produced amide polymer which do not lose their biological properties. This design carries controlled delivery which could release the entrapped drug over an extended period of time due to its slow digesting nature. The prepared adhesive drug polymer was characterized by FTIR, 1H-NMR spectroscopes, thermo gravimetric analysis TGA and DSC were careful. Physical properties of prepared polymer was quiet, Biological activity was studied for adhesive drug polymer, this new adhesive drug biological polymers were applied on different infected mice and wounds, It gave outstanding results and compliance mice infected with a full recovery by a short period of time.  The prepared drug copolymer was analyzed in different pH values at 37 0C in vitro study and controlled drug release was messured through three days. The rate of hydrolysis in basic medium was found higher than acidic medium. It was concluded that modified drug release with extended drug action via slow release and in vivo performance was renowned to be talented.

 Keywords: Pectin, controlled delivery, adhesive drug polymers, Graft Copolymer
TRADITIONAL USES, PHYTOCHEMISTRY AND PHARMACOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES OF PAPAVER SOMNIFERUM WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE OF UNANI MEDICINE AN UPDATED REVIEW
Authors: Masihuddin Masihuddin , Jafri MA , Siddiqui Aisha , Chaudhary Shahid
Published: November 2018

Papaver somniferum commonly known as Khashkhash /Afyon, belongs to family Papaveraceae. It is one of those traditional plants, which have a long history of usage as medicine. The opium poppy (Papaver somniferum) produces some of the most widely used medicinal alkaloids like morphine, codeine, thebain and porphyroxine which are the most important component of this plant. Apart from these alkaloids, opium poppy produces approximately eighty alkaloids belonging to various tetrahydrobenzylisoquinolinederived classes. It has been known for over a century that morphinan alkaloids accumulate in the latex of opium poppy. According to Unani literature, it possesses most important theurapeutic values as modern literature and research studies also prove its therapeutical importance. It is used as analgesic, narcotic, sedative, stimulant as well as nutritive, etc. It is also useful in headache, cough, insomnia, cardiac asthma, and biliary colic. In this paper we have provide a review on habitate, pharmacological actions, phytochemical with special refrence to Unani Medicine. In this review, an attempt is made to explore the complete information of Papaver somniferum including its  phytochemistry and pharmacology.

Key words: Khashkhash, Biliary colic, Alkaloid, phytochemistry.
Kajian Pemanfaatan Limbah Jerami Padi di Bagian Hulu
Authors: Rhofita Erry Ika
Published: November 2018

Jerami padi di Indonesia belum termanfaatkan secara optimal sebagai bahan baku maupun bahan pengganti dalam proses produksi barang. Umumnya jerami padi yang dihasilkan dari panen hanya dibakar diareal persawahan dengan tujuan mampu meningkatkan sifat fisik dan kimia tanah serta menekan biaya pengangkutan dan transportasi dalam pembuangannya. Pemanfaatan jerami padi dapat mencakup bagian hulu maupun hilir. Dibagian hulu jerami padi banyak dimanfaatkan untuk keperluan di bidang pertanian dan peternakan. Dibidang pertanian jerami padi dimanfaatkan sebagai bahan baku dalam pembuatan pupuk organik dan mulsa tanam. Sedangkan dalam bidang peternakan jerami padi dimanfaatkan sebagai sumber pakan ternak yang kaya nutrisi. Melalui pemanfaatan jerami padi di bagian hulu diharapkan mampu menerapkan prinsip manajemen lingkungan 3R (reduce, reuse, dan recyle) dan berbasis zero waste
KEBIJAKAN REKLAMASI DAN REVEGETASI LAHAN BEKAS TAMBANG (STUDI KASUS TAMBANG BATUBARA INDONESIA)
Authors: Oktorina Sarita
Published: November 2018

Reklamasi adalah kegiatan pengelolaan tanah yang mencakup perbaikan kondisi fisik tanah (overburden) agar tidak terjadi longsor, pembuatan waduk untuk perbaikan kualitas air asam tambang yang beracun, yang kemudian dilanjutkan dengan kegiatan revegetasi. Kegiatan reklamasi penting dilakukan untuk memperbaiki lahan bekas tambang. Pada umumnya tanah di lahan bekas tambang mengandung kadar unsur hara yang rendah. Reklamasi dan revegetasi merupakan kegiatan yang dilakukan untuk memperbaiki kondisilahan pasca penambangan. (Pujawati, 2009). Dalam melaksanakan reklamasi, pemerintah mengeluarkan berbagai kebijakan guna memastikan bahwa setiap perusahaan wajib melaksanakan reklamasi dengan benar, baik dan sungguh-sungguh, serta menyetorkan dana jaminan reklamasi. Untuk merealisasikannya, perlu dilakukan adanya perizinan, yaitu setiap perusahaan yang melakukan kegiatan pertambangan harus segera merencanakan bentuk kegiatan pasca tambang (reklamasi) di atas areal tambang yang digunakan paling lambat satu bulan setelah tidak ada lagi kegiatan usaha pertambangan pada lahan yang terganggu. Selain itu, perlu juga dilakukan pengendalian lahan pasca tambang dengan memadukan pembenahan lahan, dan pemilihan jenis tanaman yang tepat, yaitu dengan kriteria berjenis local pioner cepat tumbuh, tahan terpapar matahari, cepat terdekomposisi, sistem perakaran yang baik dan bersimbiosis dengan mikroorganisme tertentu, mudah dan murah dalam perbanyakan, penanaman dan pemeliharaan. Kata Kunci: reklamasi, lahan, kebijakan, perizinan.
OPCIÓN CLIMÁTICA PARA LA PRODUCCIÓN DE CAFÉ EN MÉXICO
Authors: Allou Alphonse Allou , Trejo-García José Carlos , Martínez-García Miguel Ángel
Published: November 2018

En este trabajo, se presentan los derivados climáticos como un instrumento que permite al sector agrícola en México cubrirse ante los riesgos relacionados con el clima. Se realiza un análisis de la factibilidad de un derivado climático para el cultivo del café en los estados de Veracruz, Chiapas y Oaxaca con el fin de transferir los riesgos asociados con el clima. Así se determina, mediante el método de panel de datos, que la precipitación tiene una relación elástica de 1.99 con la producción anual del café. Partiendo de este argumento, se desarrolla en el presente trabajo una valuación de opciones europeas sobre precipitación para el café con el método de Black-Scholes (1973), para los estados estudiados.

ABSTRACT

This paper presents weather derivatives as a tool for the agricultural sector in Mexico to protect itself from climatic risks. An analysis of the need for a climate derivative for the cultivation of coffee in the states of Veracruz, Chiapas and Oaxaca in order to propose a derivative for transferring risk associated with climate. Therefore, it was determined using the data panel method that precipitation has a 1.99 elastic relationship with the annual production of coffee. On the basis of this argument, a valuation is developed in this study of European options related to precipitation and coffee using the Black-Scholes method (1973) for the states mentioned.
Enhancing COMLEX-USA: Evidence-Based Redesign of the Osteopathic Medical Licensure Examination Program
Authors: Horber Dorothy T. , Gimpel John R.
Published: November 2018

To ensure the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination of the United States of America (COMLEX-USA) remains relevant and current in meeting the needs of the state licensing boards and other constituents, the National Board of Osteopathic Medical Examiners (NBOME) has developed a new blueprint for an enhanced, competency-based examination program to be implemented with the COMLEX-USA Level 3 examination in late 2018. This article summarizes the evidence-based design processes on which the new blueprint is built, how it differs from the previous blueprint, and the evidence supporting its validity for the primary and intended purpose of COMLEX-USA — osteopathic physician licensure. It concludes with the changes being implemented by the NBOME to ensure COMLEX-USA remains current and meets the needs of its stakeholders, the state licensing boards.
Comparison of Replica Leaf Surface Materials for Phyllosphere Microbiology
Authors: Soffe Rebecca , Altenhuber Nicola , Bernach Michal , Remus-Emsermann Mitja , Nock Volker
Published: November 2018

Artificial surfaces are routinely used instead of leaves to enable a reductionist approach in phyllosphere microbiology, the study of microorganisms residing on plant leaf surfaces. For instance, flat surfaces such as nutrient agar, enable the influence of nutrient supply on microorganisms to be investigated. In contrast microstructured surfaces, such as isolated leaf cuticles or reconstituted leaf waxes enable the influence of physicochemical properties to be investigated. However, interest in replica leaf surfaces as an artificial surface is growing. As replica surfaces offer an improved representation of the complex topography of leaf surfaces. The use of replica leaf surfaces has to date primarily been focused on replicating the superhydrophobic surfaces of leaves. Whereas in this paper, we investigate potential replica surface materials for phyllosphere microbiology studies. Using a test pattern, we investigated the resolution, the degradation characteristics in environmental conditions, surface energy, and bacterial survival characteristics for each potential replica material. Our results indicate that PDMS is the most suitable material for producing replica leaf surfaces. Due to the high resolution achieved through replica molding, extended stability, hydrophobic properties, and bacterial survival characteristics comparable to isolated leaf cuticles. Our experiments highlight the importance of considering the inherent material properties, when selecting a replica leaf surface for phyllosphere microbiology studies. A replica leaf produced in PDMS offers a control surface that can be used for investigating microbe-microbe and microbe-plant interactions in the phyllosphere. Thus, in turn enabling mitigation strategies against pathogens to either the plant host or humans to be developed.
Identification of Character Values Developed in Early Childhood Education
Authors: hidayati abna , Amsal Mutiara Felicita
Published: November 2018

Character education in early childhood needs to be developed and identified so that the development of these values is appropriate to the early childhood development stage. This study aims to identify the character values that will be developed in early childhood education. The formulation of the problem in this research is what character values are developed in early childhood learning. The type of research is qualitative with data collection technique by observation and interview. Data were collected through teacher respondents on early childhoodresiding in Padang. The results showed that there are fivedifferent aspects of character developed in early childhoodeducation that is, religious character, social character, personalvalue, caring character and environmental character.
Children's Gender and Parents' Color Preferences
Authors: Cohen Philip N.
Published: November 2018

Gender differences in color preferences have been found in adults and children, but they remain unexplained. This study asks whether the gendered social environment in adulthood affects parents’ color preferences. The analysis used the gender of children to represent one aspect of the gendered social environment. Because having male versus female children in the U.S. is generally randomly distributed, it provides something of a natural experiment, offering evidence about the social construction of gender in adulthood. The participants were 749 adults with children who responded to an online survey invitation, asking “What’s your favorite color?” Men were more likely to prefer blue, while women were more likely to prefer red, purple, and pink, consistent with long-standing U.S. patterns. The effect of having only sons was to widen the existing gender differences between men and women, increasing the odds that men prefer blue while reducing the odds that women do; and a marginally significant effect showed women having higher odds of preferring pink when they have sons only. The results suggest that, in addition to any genetic, biological or child-socialization effects shaping adults’ tendency to segregate their color preferences by gender, the gender context of adulthood matters as well.
QUESTIONS OF FIGHT AGAINST CORRUPTION IN THE REPUBLIC OF KAZAKHSTAN
Authors:   Kyzylorda State University named after Korkyt Ata Speciality «Jurisprudence» student 2nd course Kyzylorda city, the Republic of Kazakhstan. E-mail: drow_sevenrich@mail.ru, Zhetibai Baurar Zhetibaevich , Zhumagulova Sholpan Rustemovna ,   Scientific supervisor Kyzylorda State University named after Korkyt Ata Pulpit «Jurisprudence» senior teacher,Candidate of Law. E-mail: jumagulova_sholpan@mail.ru
Published: November 2018

Currently, the state is doing a lot of work to combat corruption. Kazakhstan for the first time in the Soviet Union adopted the law" on combating corruption", in which the draft law defines the basic principles of combating corruption, defines the types of corruption offenses and responsibility for them. In the fight against corruption, much depends on the active participation of the whole society. In the context of the development of the social network, other media resources, in the course of combating corruption should be a powerful tool in the fight. Issues related to corruption are always under the close attention of the Head of state. In his Address to the people of Kazakhstan "Kazakhstan's way — 2050:common goal, common interests, common future" the head of state noted that corruption is a threat to society, the constitutional base of the state, so the fight against it is a national task".
COMPATIBILITY OF THE METAL QUALITY
Authors:   Master student Karaganda state technical university Karaganda, the Republic of Kazakhstan. E-mail: mario.sancez@mail.ru, Orazbayev Kairat
Published: November 2018

The production of porous metal products is a key issue in the metallurgy sector. The article summarizes the results of porous metal products obtained from different factories.
Aguinda v. Texaco Inc.
Authors: Davidov Veronica
Published: November 2018

This article analyzes a series of litigations that began with the Aguinda v.
Texaco Inc. case as a site of production of new legal subjectivities for
indigenous communities in the region of the Ecuadorian Amazon polluted by
oil extraction activities. They engage in the transnational and local legal
structures, contribute to and generate legal and scientific knowledge and
expertise, and articulate multiple legal subjectivities that position them not only
as homogenous plaintiffs in a highly publicized lawsuit, but also as legal actors
in complex relation to each other, and to the state. Through such engagements
with this legal process, indigenous actors are recrafting their collective
representations in ways that challenge the ‘ecoprimitive’ stereotypes of
indigeneity, historically associated with the ‘paradox of primitivism.’
Living with Uncertainty
Authors: Griffiths Melanie
Published: November 2018

Immigration detention is a central tenet of the British government’s
response to immigration but remains under-theorised in academia. This
article uses testimonies drawn from anthropological research conducted
with detainees at an Immigration Removal Centre to examine lived
experiences of immigration detention and explore the relationships between
detainees and the British state. It suggests that despite being a space of
extreme control (both in terms of legislation and daily practice),
immigration detention is beset with uncertainty and confusion. Examples
are given of chronic instability in relation to mobility, violent ‘incidents’,
time frames and access to information. The article examines the
repercussions of such instability on individuals and coping strategies
employed. It argues that immigration detainees live in a context of
continual crisis, in which profound uncertainty becomes normalised. This
disorder should be understood as a technique of power, with governance
through uncertainty constructing certain immigrants as expendable,
transient and ultimately, deportable.
Thinking through Surrogacy Legislation in India
Authors: Unnithan Maya
Published: November 2018

As its main focus the article is concerned with explaining the proposed
Indian Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) Bill 2010 (2008), and in
particular discusses some of its limitations using a relational conception of
consent and autonomy. It is argued that two major limitations arise from,
firstly, the way the Bill attempts to introduce ‘universal’ notions of
informed consent into a cultural context of socially determined decisionmaking,
resulting in the failure to safeguard the welfare of Indian
surrogates. A second limitation is that the proposed law entitles only some
poor women (surrogates) in India to realise access to quality medical
healthcare services compared to others (poor, infertile women). Given the
significant class and gender based inequalities which frame reproductive
healthcare service delivery in the country, legally guaranteed access to
health services for surrogates becomes a privilege where the rights of some
individuals and couples to reproduce and exercise procreative agency is
valued and not others. The article argues that the Bill must give due
consideration to the complex, relational and highly stratified contexts in
which women undertake childbearing in India to understand why legally
comprehensive consent procedures can co-exist with violations of
personhood in practice. Without such consideration the article suggests that
injustice toward infertile women can become part of the same legal process
wherein overcoming infertility is recognised as a right.
Cutting the Face
Authors: Hughes Geoffrey Fitzgibbon
Published: November 2018

The local uptake of new media in the Middle East is shaped by deep histories of imperialism, state building, resistance and accommodation. In contemporary Jordan, social media is simultaneously encouraging identification with tribes and undermining their gerontocratic power structures. Senior men stress their own importance as guarantors (‘faces’), who restore order following conflicts, promising to pay their rivals a large surety if their kin break the truce. Yet, ‘cutting the face’ (breaking truces) remains an alternative, one often facilitated by new technologies that allow people to challenge pre-existing structures of communication and authority. However, the experiences of journalists and other social media mavens suggest that the liberatory promise of the new technology may not be enough to prevent its reintegration into older patterns of social control.
Gamma Knife surgery in patients harboring orbital cavernous hemangiomas that were diagnosed on the basis of imaging findings
Authors: Liu Xiaomin , Xu Desheng , Zhang Yipei , Liu Dong , Song Guoxiang
Published: November 2018

Object

This study was undertaken to evaluate clinical outcomes and tumor control in patients harboring orbital cavernous hemangiomas (OCHs) that had been diagnosed based on findings of imaging studies and treated by Gamma Knife surgery (GKS).

Methods

Between 1995 and 2008, 23 patients harboring OCHs that had been diagnosed on the basis of imaging findings were treated using GKS; complete follow-up data are available in all cases. The median treatment volume was 1.5 cm3 (range 0.15–10.10 cm3), the median tumor margin dose was 15 Gy (range 12–20 Gy), and the median follow-up period was 12 months (range 6–120 months).

Results

A decrease in tumor size was found in 20 patients, and no tumor progression was observed after GKS. Eleven of 14 patients whose visual function had been adversely affected prior to treatment had improved visual acuity at the last assessment. Side effects of the procedure included orbital pain in 3 patients and chemosis in 2 patients.

Conclusions

In this preliminary experience, GKS proved to be an effective treatment for OCHs diagnosed on the basis of imaging findings. Additional follow-up is necessary, and the long-term side effects of the procedure still need to be determined.
Gamma Knife surgery for trigeminal neuralgia: a review of 450 consecutive cases
Authors: Verheul Jeroen B. , Hanssens Patrick E. J. , Lie Suan Te , Leenstra Sieger , Piersma Hendrik , Beute Guus N.
Published: November 2018

Object

The success rates and side effects of Gamma Knife surgery (GKS) in patients with trigeminal neuralgia (TN) are not fully clear. A comparison of data across previous reports is hampered by differences in treatment protocols, lengths of follow-up, and outcome criteria. The purpose of this paper is to contribute to knowledge of the efficacy of GKS in TN by reviewing data in a large group of patients with this disorder, who were treated with a uniform treatment protocol and evaluated using a well-established pain scale and Kaplan-Meier analysis.

Methods

The authors reviewed 450 treatments in 365 patents with medically refractory TN who were treated between June 2002 and October 2009 at the Gamma Knife Center Tilburg. In all patients 80 Gy was prescribed, with a single 4-mm isocenter located at the root entry zone (REZ). In 79 patients repeated GKS was performed using a uniform dose of 80 Gy, which was delivered, in a highly standardized manner, to a spot anterior to the position of the first treatment. Follow-up was obtained by reviewing the patients' medical records and conducting telephone interviews. Outcome was assessed using the Barrow Neurological Institute (BNI) pain scale and the BNI facial numbness scale.

Results

The median follow-up period was 28 months. In the idiopathic TN group, rates of adequate pain relief, defined as BNI Pain Scores I–IIIB, were 75%, 60%, and 58% at 1, 3, and 5 years, respectively. In the multiple sclerosis (MS)–related TN group the rates of adequate pain relief were 56%, 30%, and 20% at 1, 3, and 5 years, respectively. Repeated GKS was as successful as the first. An analysis of our treatment strategy of repeated GKS showed rates of adequate pain relief of 75% at 5 years in the idiopathic TN and 46% in the MS-related TN group. Somewhat bothersome numbness was reported by 6% of patients after the first treatment and by 24% after repeated GKS. Very bothersome numbness was reported in 0.5% after the first GKS and in 2% after the second treatment.

Conclusions

In this study the authors analyzed outcomes of GKS in a large cohort of patients with TN; uniform treatment consisted of 80 Gy delivered to the REZ. The initial and long-term outcomes of pain relief and sensory dysfunction are comparable to recently published results at other institutions, where similar outcome criteria were used. These data should prove helpful to assist patients and clinicians in their TN management decisions.
Repeat Gamma Knife surgery for trigeminal neuralgia: long-term results
Authors: Kimball Brent Y. , Sorenson Jeffrey M. , Cunningham David
Published: November 2018

Object

The purpose of this study was to assess the long-term outcome achieved after repeat Gamma Knife surgery (GKS) for trigeminal neuralgia (TN) using a uniform treatment plan.

Methods

Between 1985 and 2010, 53 patients underwent repeat GKS for refractory TN. In the initial GKS, which involved targeting the root entry zone of the trigeminal nerve, a maximal dose of 80 Gy was used with a 4-mm collimator so that the 50% isodose line abutted the pons. In the second GKS, the treatment plan consisted of a 70-Gy dose directed at a target 4–5 mm distal to the first target on the trigeminal nerve. The mean follow-up duration in these patients was 42 months. Outcomes were defined using the Marseille scale: excellent (Class I or II, no pain with or without medications), good (Class III or IV, ≥ 50% relief), and poor (Class V, < 50% relief).

Results

Trigeminal neuralgia pain was controlled (≥ 50% improvement with or without medications) after repeat GKS in 70% of patients at 1 year, 50% at 3 years, 50% at 5 years, and 50% at 10 years, as defined by a Kaplan-Meier analysis. A correlation was found between facial numbness and pain relief (p = 0.047). No difference was found between patients with Type 1 TN and those with Type 2 TN, and there was no correlation between the best relief obtained and long-term durability of relief from pain. Twenty-two patients (47.8%) described their trigeminal dysfunction in the following manner: numbness (45.6%), dry eye (10.9%), taste change (8.7%), or jaw weakness (2.2%). In only 8.7% of cases did the patient experience facial numbness that was regarded as bothersome.

Conclusions

Repeat GKS for TN at the doses used provides substantial long-term relief. Treatment failure occurred up to 28 months after the second GKS. Facial numbness correlated with more durable pain relief after repeat GKS in this series.
Pituitary insufficiency as a side effect after radiosurgery for pituitary adenomas: the role of the hypothalamus
Authors: Feigl Guenther Christian , Pistracher Karin , Berghold Andrea , Mokry Michael
Published: November 2018

Object

Causes of pituitary insufficiencies as a side effect of Gamma Knife surgery (GKS) following irradiation of the hypothalamopituitary axis are still under debate. In an investigation of pituitary insufficiencies after GKS, the authors' main focus is on what role can be attributed to the hypothalamus with regard to endocrinological changes in hypothalamopituitary function following GKS.

Methods

A total of 108 patients consecutively treated between April 1992 and July 2003 were included in this retrospective study. All patients had undergone either transsphenoidal or transcranial surgery prior to GKS. The spot dosimetry method was used to determine doses delivered to structures of the hypothalamopituitary axis. For statistical analyses, endocrine insufficiency and deterioration in pituitary function were defined as a decrease in hormonal blood levels below the normal range for 1 or more anterior pituitary lobe hormones. Additionally, an analysis of the rate of patients requiring hormone replacement therapy after GKS due to new endocrinopathies was performed.

Results

Complete patient records of 61 male and 47 female patients with a mean age of 51.9 years (range 9.1–81.2 years) were available for our investigation. The overall tumor control rate was 97% and the endocrinological cure rate was 61.2%. Mean treatment doses in patients with and without new endocrine insufficiencies (shown as with/without insufficiencies and followed by probability values) were as follows: 1.3/0.8 Gy to the hypothalamus (p = 0.2); 2.2/1.6 Gy to the median eminence (p = 0.1); 6.5/4.1 Gy to the pituitary stalk (p = 0.004); and 12.4/9.5 Gy to the pituitary gland (p = 0.05). The median overall duration of follow-up after GKS was 6.7 years, with 84 patients (77.7%) whose follow-up was longer than 12 months. The median follow-up time after GKS in patients who developed a new pituitary dysfunction was 79.5 months (6.6 years, SD 3.8 years), and the median follow-up time in patients with no new insufficiencies was 78.4 months (6.5 years, SD 4 years).

Conclusions

Gamma Knife surgery is a safe and effective treatment for patients with residual and recurrent pituitary adenomas. The rate of pituitary insufficiencies after GKS is still lower than that after conventional radiotherapy. Very low radiation doses are directed to the hypothalamus, and thus this structure does not play a major role in the development of pituitary insufficiencies after GKS. The results of this study show that patients in whom the pituitary stalk and pituitary gland receive a high mean point dose are more likely to develop pituitary insufficiencies after GKS than those who receive a lower dose.
Gamma Knife surgery for central neurocytomas
Authors: Karlsson Bengt , Guo Wan-Yuo , Kejia Teo , Dinesh Nivedh , Pan David Hung-Chi , Jokura Hidefumi , Kawagishi Jun , van Eck Albertus T. C. J. , Horstmann Gerhard A. , Yeo Tseng Tsai , Yamamoto Masaaki
Published: November 2018

Object

The optimal management of central neurocytoma (CN) remnants and recurrences is still not clear. To date no large series of patients treated with Gamma Knife surgery (GKS) for CNs has been published. For that reason the authors decided to combine data from 5 different centers so that they could analyze the largest population of patients treated with GKS for CN currently available.

Methods

Data obtained in 42 patients who were treated for CN with GKS before July 1, 2010, were retrospectively collected and analyzed. The median prescribed dose was 13 Gy (range 11–25 Gy). The follow-up time in these patients ranged from 0.5 to 14.7 years (mean 6.1 years, median 4.9 years). Eleven patients were followed up for 5–10 years and 9 patients for more than 10 years. All patients were alive and well at the closing of the study except 1 patient, who died of injuries sustained in a traffic accident.

Results

Two cases of local tumor progression and 2 cases of distant tumor recurrence occurred among the patient population, yielding 5- and 10-year tumor control rates of 91% and 81%, respectively. No permanent complications occurred. The findings were in line with results reported in earlier publications. Despite the high tumor control rate, enlargement of part of or the whole ventricular system was seen in 45% of patients.

Conclusions

The high tumor control rate and the low complication rate following GKS indicate that GKS is the preferred treatment for CN tumor remnants or recurrences following microsurgery. However, data from longer follow-up times in more patients are needed before this conclusion can be validated. The patients need to be closely monitored and potential hydrocephalus managed despite tumor control.
Proposed mechanism for cyst formation and enlargement following Gamma Knife Surgery for arteriovenous malformations
Authors: Shuto Takashi , Ohtake Makoto , Matsunaga Shigeo
Published: November 2018

Object

The authors retrospectively studied the mechanism of cyst formation and enlargement after Gamma Knife surgery (GKS) for arteriovenous malformations (AVMs).

Methods

Eighteen patients in whom cyst formation developed following GKS for AVM were retrospectively identified among 775 patients who underwent GKS for AVM at Yokohama Rosai Hospital. The study group was composed of 12 male and 6 female patients ranging in age from 17 to 47 years.

Results

Chronic encapsulated expanding hematoma was associated with the cyst in 5 patients. The AVM nidus volume at the time of GKS ranged from 1.9 to 36 cm3, and the prescription radiation dose was 18–25 Gy. Complete obliteration of the AVM nidus was obtained in 13 patients and partial obliteration in 5 patients. Cyst formation was detected between 2.6 and 15 years after GKS. Craniotomy was performed in 10 patients, including 2 patients in whom the incompletely obliterated nidus was removed at the same time, and an Ommaya reservoir was placed in 2 patients. Spontaneous regression of the cyst was observed in 1 patient. Serial MR imaging was performed in the other patients because the size of the cyst was stable or the lesion was asymptomatic. Histological examination of the cyst wall revealed linear hemosiderin deposits with gliosis. The nodular lesion, which was enhanced on MR images, contained granulation tissue with chronic hemorrhage from newly developed capillary vessels.

Conclusions

Cysts developing after GKS for AVM enlarge mainly due to repeated minor hemorrhages from a reddish nodular angiomatous lesion that develops within an adjacent brain area. Thus, the optimal treatment is wide opening of the cyst with removal of the associated angiomatous lesion by craniotomy.
Comparative study of Gamma Knife surgery and percutaneous retrogasserian glycerol rhizotomy for trigeminal neuralgia in patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Mathieu David , Effendi Khaled , Blanchard Jocelyn , Séguin Mario
Published: November 2018

Object

Among patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) there is a high incidence of trigeminal neuralgia (TN), and outcomes after treatment seem inferior to those in patients suffering from idiopathic TN. The goal of this study was to evaluate clinical outcomes in patients with MS-related TN after Gamma Knife surgery (GKS) and compare them with those obtained using percutaneous retrogasserian glycerol rhizotomy (PRGR).

Methods

The authors retrospectively reviewed the charts of 45 patients with MS-related TN. The first procedure undertaken was GKS in 27 patients and PRGR in 18 patients. Pain had been present for a median of 60 months (range 12–276 months) in patients who underwent GKS and 48 months (range 12–240 months) in patients who underwent PRGR. The following outcome measures were assessed in both groups of patients: pain relief (using the Barrow Neurological Institute [BNI] Pain Scale), procedure-related morbidity, time to pain relief and recurrence, and subsequent procedures that were performed.

Results

The median duration of follow-up was 39 months (range 13–69 months) in the GKS group and 38 months (range 2–75 months) in the PRGR group. Reasonable pain control (BNI Pain Scale Scores I–IIIb) was noted in 22 patients (81.5%) who underwent GKS and in 18 patients (100%) who underwent PRGR. For patients who underwent GKS, the median time to pain relief was 6 months; for those who underwent PRGR, pain relief was immediate. In the GKS group12 patients required subsequent procedures (3 patients for absence of response and 9 patients for pain recurrence), whereas in the PRGR group 6 patients required subsequent procedures (all for pain recurrence). As of the last follow-up, complete or reasonable pain control was finally achieved in 23 patients (85.2%) in the GKS group and in 16 patients (88.9%) in the PRGR group. The morbidity rate was 22.2% in the GKS group (all due to sensory loss and paresthesia) and 66.7% in the PRGR group (mostly hypalgesia, with 2 patients having corneal reflex loss and 1 patient suffering from meningitis).

Conclusions

Both GKS and PRGR are satisfactory strategies for treating MS-related TN. Gamma Knife surgery has a lower rate of sensory and overall morbidity than PRGR, but requires a delay before pain relief occurs. The authors propose that patients with extreme pain in need of fast relief should undergo PRGR. For other patients, both management strategies can lead to satisfactory pain relief, and the choice should be made based on patient preference and expectations.