bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preoperative diagnosis of vagal and sympathetic cervical schwannomas based on radiographic findings
Authors: Graffeo Christopher S. , Van Abel Kathryn M. , Morris Jonathan M. , Carlson Matthew L. , Van Gompel Jamie J. , Moore Eric J. , Price Daniel L. , Kasperbauer Jan L. , Janus Jeffrey R. , Olsen Kerry D. , Link Michael J.
Published: April 2016

OBJECTIVE

Vagus nerve and sympathetic chain cervical schwannomas (VNCSs and SCCSs) are benign nerve sheath tumors that arise in the head and neck. Despite similar presentations that make accurate preoperative diagnosis more difficult, the potential for morbidity following resection is significantly higher for patients with VNCS. Therefore, the authors analyzed a retrospective case series and performed a comparative analysis of the literature to establish diagnostic criteria to facilitate more accurate preoperative diagnoses.

METHODS

The authors conducted a blinded review of imaging studies from retrospectively collected, operatively confirmed cases of VNCS and SCCS. They also performed a systematic review of published series that reported patient-specific preoperative imaging findings in VNCS or SCCS.

RESULTS

Nine patients with VNCS and 11 with SCCS were identified. In the study cohort, splaying of the internal carotid artery (ICA) and internal jugular vein (IJV) did not significantly predict the nerve of origin (p = 0.06); however, medial and lateral ICA displacement were significantly associated with VNCS and SCCS, respectively (p = 0.01 and p = 0.003, respectively). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that ICA and IJV splaying with medial ICA displacement carried an 86% probability of VNCS (p = 0.001), while the absence of splaying with lateral ICA displacement carried a 91% probability of SCCS (p = 0.006). The presence of vocal cord symptoms or peripheral enhancement significantly augmented the predictive probability of VNCS, as did Horner's syndrome or homogeneous enhancement for SCCS.

A review of the literature produced 25 publications that incorporated a total of 106 patients, including the present series. Splaying of the ICA and IJV was significantly, but not uniquely, associated with VNCS (p < 0.0001); multivariate analysis demonstrated that ICA and IJV splaying with medial ICA displacement carries a 75% probability of VNCS (p < 0.0001), while the absence of such splaying with lateral ICA displacement carries an 87% probability of SCCS (p = 0.0003).

CONCLUSIONS

ICA and IJV splaying frequently predicts VNCS; however, this finding is also commonly observed in SCCS and, among the 9 cases in the present study, was observed more often than previously reported. When congruent with splaying, medial or lateral ICA displacement significantly enhances the reliability of preoperative predictions, empowering more accurate prognostication.
Cushing's disease: pathobiology, diagnosis, and management
Authors: Lonser Russell R. , Nieman Lynnette , Oldfield Edward H.
Published: April 2016

Cushing's disease (CD) is the result of excess secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) by a benign monoclonal pituitary adenoma. The excessive secretion of ACTH stimulates secretion of cortisol by the adrenal glands, resulting in supraphysiological levels of circulating cortisol. The pathophysiological levels of cortisol are associated with hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and early death. Successful resection of the CD-associated ACTH-secreting pituitary adenoma is the treatment of choice and results in immediate biochemical remission with preservation of pituitary function. Accurate and early identification of CD is critical for effective surgical management and optimal prognosis. The authors review the current pathophysiological principles, diagnostic methods, and management of CD.
Urokinase, a promising candidate for fibrinolytic therapy for intracerebral hemorrhage
Authors: Tan Qiang , Chen Qianwei , Niu Yin , Feng Zhou , Li Lin , Tao Yihao , Tang Jun , Yang Liming , Guo Jing , Feng Hua , Zhu Gang , Chen Zhi
Published: April 2016

OBJECTIVE

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is associated with a high rate of mortality and severe disability, while fibrinolysis for ICH evacuation is a possible treatment. However, reported adverse effects can counteract the benefits of fibrinolysis and limit the use of tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA). Identifying appropriate fibrinolytics is still needed. Therefore, the authors here compared the use of urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA), an alternate thrombolytic, with that of tPA in a preclinical study.

METHODS

Intracerebral hemorrhage was induced in adult male Sprague-Dawley rats by injecting autologous blood into the caudate, followed by intraclot fibrinolysis without drainage. Rats were randomized to receive uPA, tPA, or saline within the clot. Hematoma and perihematomal edema, brain water content, Evans blue fluorescence and neurological scores, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), MMP mRNA, blood-brain barrier (BBB) tight junction proteins, and nuclear factor–κB (NF-κB) activation were measured to evaluate the effects of these 2 drugs in ICH.

RESULTS

In comparison with tPA, uPA better ameliorated brain edema and promoted an improved outcome after ICH. In addition, uPA therapy more effectively upregulated BBB tight junction protein expression, which was partly attributed to the different effects of uPA and tPA on the regulation of MMPs and its related mRNA expression following ICH.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provided evidence supporting the use of uPA for fibrinolytic therapy after ICH. Large animal experiments and clinical trials are required to further explore the efficacy and safety of uPA in ICH fibrinolysis.
Effect of low-frequency deep brain stimulation on sensory thresholds in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Belasen Abigail , Rizvi Khizer , Gee Lucy E. , Yeung Philip , Prusik Julia , Ramirez-Zamora Adolfo , Hanspal Era , Paiva Priscilla , Durphy Jennifer , Argoff Charles E. , Pilitsis Julie G.
Published: April 2016

OBJECTIVE

Chronic pain is a major distressing symptom of Parkinson's disease (PD) that is often undertreated. Subthalamic nucleus (STN) deep brain stimulation (DBS) delivers high-frequency stimulation (HFS) to patients with PD and has been effective in pain relief in a subset of these patients. However, up to 74% of patients develop new pain concerns while receiving STN DBS. Here the authors explore whether altering the frequency of STN DBS changes pain perception as measured through quantitative sensory testing (QST).

METHODS

Using QST, the authors measured thermal and mechanical detection and pain thresholds in 19 patients undergoing DBS via HFS, low-frequency stimulation (LFS), and off conditions in a randomized order. Testing was performed in the region of the body with the most pain and in the lower back in patients without chronic pain.

RESULTS

In the patients with chronic pain, LFS significantly reduced heat detection thresholds as compared with thresholds following HFS (p = 0.029) and in the off state (p = 0.010). Moreover, LFS resulted in increased detection thresholds for mechanical pressure (p = 0.020) and vibration (p = 0.040) compared with these thresholds following HFS. Neither LFS nor HFS led to changes in other mechanical thresholds. In patients without chronic pain, LFS significantly increased mechanical pain thresholds in response to the 40-g pinprick compared with thresholds following HFS (p = 0.032).

CONCLUSIONS

Recent literature has suggested that STN LFS can be useful in treating nonmotor symptoms of PD. Here the authors demonstrated that LFS modulates thermal and mechanical detection to a greater extent than HFS. Low-frequency stimulation is an innovative means of modulating chronic pain in PD patients receiving STN DBS. The authors suggest that STN LFS may be a future option to consider when treating Parkinson's patients in whom pain remains the predominant complaint.
Duplicate filum terminale noted in an adult: a rare finding
Authors: Davanzo Justin R. , Christopher Zacko J. , Specht Charles S. , Rizk Elias B.
Published: April 2016

This is the first reported case of an adult presenting with tethering symptoms, limb discrepancy on physical examination, a low-lying spinal cord, and duplicate filum terminale discovered intraoperatively. Intraoperative imaging and pathological analysis of a specimen confirmed the diagnosis of duplicate filum. This is the first reported adult case with duplication of the filum terminale. Release of both fila was necessary in this case to relieve the tethering symptoms.
Measurement of Water Productivity in Seasonal Floodplain Beel Area
Authors: Hossain Md. Istiaque , Alam Md. Mahmudul , Siwar Chamhuri , Mokhtar Mazlin
Published: April 2016

Water scarcity is becoming a central issue in agricultural activities around the world. As agriculture is one of the major consumers of freshwater, more yield or output using same or less amount of water has become the global interest. Therefore water productivity (WP) is also considered as an indicator of agricultural productivity. Several research works have been conducted on WP values of different yields, tools and technologies to improve WP. Most of the studies on water productivity considered the crop productivity using limited water resource and searched for better technologies for improving crop water productivity. Researchers also concentrated on improving irrigation efficiency or water use efficiency at field level for irrigation through water management and for yielding more crops. But there is a research gap in assessing values of water productivity in aquatic ecosystems especially floodplain areas. A floodplain area remains dry and flooded in two different seasons. Thus, a combined valuation of aquatic resources and rice production in two different seasons are very important to measure the efficient usages of the lands. So, this study deals with how to measure annual aggregate water productivity for dry season and flood season in a floodplain beel area.
A Comparative Evaluation of the Water Quality Standards of Different Countries
Authors: Nnaji Chidozie Charles , Mama Cordelia Nnennaya , Ekong Christopher Ifiokobong , Agu Chizoba Chinelo
Published: April 2016

Twenty five countries, evenly distributed across the continents were used for this study. The water quality standards of these countries were used to assess water quality data from a water monitoring exercise, based on the CCME water quality index. The ratings obtained were used as a measure of the liberality or strictness of water quality standards of these countries. Afterwards, water quality indices were computed for each of acceptability, health and toxicity. The CCME was then modified to reflect the varying importance of different parameters. The modified water quality index is called the importance averaged water quality index (IAWQI). Going by the overall water quality indices, Australia, UAE, India and Japan seem to have the most stringent drinking water standards; while Jamaica, Peru, Mexico and UAE seem to possess the most liberal drinking water quality standards. England, Italy, Nigeria and Spain have very little or no deviations from WHO guidelines for overall water quality index. Countries such as Jamaica, Peru, USA, Mexico, Ecuador, Rwanda and Ghana have the most negative deviations from the WHO guidelines. In IAWQI, acceptability has a weight of 1.00, health has a value of 11.08 and toxicity has a value of 2.74. A comparison of the CCME WQI and the IAWQI shows that the CCME WQI generally overestimates the quality of water. The IAWQI values of countries such as Sudan, Ghana and Rwanda are much higher than their corresponding WQI values. These three countries located in Africa are among countries with the lowest water poverty indices (WPI).
Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (B.E.T.), Langmuir and Freundlich Isotherm Studies for the Adsorption of Nickel Ions onto Coal Fly Ash
Authors: Agarwal Ajay K. , Kadu Mahendra S. , Pandhurnekar Chandrashekhar P. , Muthreja Ishwerdas L.
Published: April 2016

The removal of nickel ions by adsorption process using fly ash was investigated in this study. Nickel removal capacity of fly ash was performed by batch mode adsorption experiment using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) technique. The results obtained were fitted to Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption isotherms using least square fit method. The best fit among the isotherm models is assessed by the linear coefficient of regression ( R2) and by non-linear Chi-square test. The theoretical value of qe calculated from the best fit linear equation of each adsorption isotherm and the experimental values of qe are plotted against Ce, to compare the experimental and theoretical value of qe. It was observed by linear and non-linear method that BET adsorption isotherm is best fit for the present investigation.
Assessment of Highway Noise and Predictive Models along NH-316
Authors: Swain Bijay Kumar , Goswami Shreerup , Das Madhumita
Published: April 2016

Noise pollution has become a major concern of communities living in the vicinity of highways/road corridors, and intersections. The recognition of highway noise, as one of the main sources of environmental pollution led to design models that enable us to predict traffic noise level. Several models have been developed to predict traffic noise along the highways from fundamental variables such as noise descriptors. Experimental data are gathered for seven squares along the National Highway-316 (connecting Bhubaneswar to Jagannath Dham, Puri) in the present study. Noise pollution was analysed in seven different squares (road sections) during morning, afternoon and evening to assess the level of noise pollution along this road. A methodical comparison of simulated and experimental data is made, in order to test the perfection and behaviour of the models in different studied sites in an Indian road condition. Co-relation coefficient is applied to infer the level of significance.
Correlative infrared nanospectroscopic and nanomechanical imaging of block copolymer microdomains
Authors: Pollard Benjamin , Raschke Markus B
Published: April 2016

Intermolecular interactions and nanoscale phase separation govern the properties of many molecular soft-matter systems. Here, we combine infrared vibrational scattering scanning near-field optical microscopy (IR s-SNOM) with force–distance spectroscopy for simultaneous characterization of both nanoscale optical and nanomechanical molecular properties through hybrid imaging. The resulting multichannel images and correlative analysis of chemical composition, spectral IR line shape, modulus, adhesion, deformation, and dissipation acquired for a thin film of a nanophase separated block copolymer (PS-b-PMMA) reveal complex structural variations, in particular at domain interfaces, not resolved in any individual signal channel alone. These variations suggest that regions of multicomponent chemical composition, such as the interfacial mixing regions between microdomains, are correlated with high spatial heterogeneity in nanoscale material properties.
Hα AS A LUMINOSITY CLASS DIAGNOSTIC FOR K- AND M-TYPE STARS
Authors: Jennings Jeff , Levesque Emily M.
Published: April 2016

We have identified the Hα absorption feature as a new spectroscopic diagnostic of luminosity class in K- and M-type stars. From high-resolution spectra of 19 stars with well-determined physical properties (including effective temperatures and stellar radii), we measured equivalent widths for Hα and the Ca ii triplet and examined their dependence on both luminosity class and stellar radius. Hα shows a strong relation with both luminosity class and radius that extends down to late M spectral types. This behavior in Hα has been predicted as a result of the density-dependent overpopulation of the metastable 2s level in hydrogen, an effect that should become dominant for Balmer line formation in non-LTE conditions. We conclude that this new metallicity-insensitive diagnostic of luminosity class in cool stars could serve as an effective means of discerning between populations such as Milky Way giants and supergiant members of background galaxies.
A METHOD TO CONSTRAIN MASS AND SPIN OF GRB BLACK HOLES WITHIN THE NDAF MODEL
Authors: Liu Tong , Xue Li , Zhao Xiao-Hong , Zhang Fu-Wen , Zhang Bing
Published: April 2016

Black holes (BHs) hide themselves behind various astronomical phenomena and their properties, i.e., mass and spin, are usually difficult to constrain. One leading candidate for the central engine model of gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) invokes a stellar mass BH and a neutrino-dominated accretion flow (NDAF), with the relativistic jet launched due to neutrino-anti-neutrino annihilations. Such a model gives rise to a matter-dominated fireball, and is suitable to interpret GRBs with a dominant thermal component with a photospheric origin. We propose a method to constrain BH mass and spin within the framework of this model and apply the method to the thermally dominant GRB 101219B, whose initial jet launching radius, r
0, is constrained from the data. Using our numerical model of NDAF jets, we estimate the following constraints on the central BH: mass M
BH ∼ 5–9 M
⊙, spin parameter a
* ≳ 0.6, and disk mass 3 M
⊙ ≲ M
disk ≲ 4 M
⊙. Our results also suggest that the NDAF model is a competitive candidate for the central engine of GRBs with a strong thermal component.
THE VLT LEGA-C SPECTROSCOPIC SURVEY: THE PHYSICS OF GALAXIES AT A LOOKBACK TIME OF 7 Gyr
Authors: van der Wel A. , Noeske K. , Bezanson R. , Pacifici C. , Gallazzi A. , Franx M. , Muñoz-Mateos J. C. , Bell E. F. , Brammer G. , Charlot S. , Chauké P. , Labbé I. , Maseda M. V. , Muzzin A. , Rix H.-W. , Sobral D. , Sande J. van de , Dokkum P. G. van , Wild V. , Wolf C.
Published: April 2016

The Large Early Galaxy Census (LEGA-C) is a Public Spectroscopic Survey of ∼3200 K-band selected galaxies at redshifts z = 0.6 − 1.0 with stellar masses

M

*

>

10

10

M

⊙

, conducted with VIMOS on ESO’s Very Large Telescope. The survey is embedded in the COSMOS field (R.A. = 10h00;

decl
.

=

+
2

deg

). The 20 hr long integrations produce high-signal-to-noise ratio continuum spectra that reveal ages, metallicities and velocity dispersions of the stellar populations. LEGA-C’s unique combination of sample size and depth will enable us for the first time to map the stellar content at large lookback time, across galaxies of different types and star formation activity. Observations started in 2014 December and are planned to be completed by mid 2018, with early data releases of the spectra and value-added products. In this paper we present the science case, the observing strategy, an overview of the data reduction process and data products, and a first look at the relationship between galaxy structure and spectral properties, as it existed 7 Gyr ago.
FAST RADIO BURSTS FROM THE INSPIRAL OF DOUBLE NEUTRON STARS
Authors: Wang Jie-Shuang , Yang Yuan-Pei , Wu Xue-Feng , Dai Zi-Gao , Wang Fa-Yin
Published: April 2016

In this Letter, we propose that a fast radio burst (FRB) could originate from the magnetic interaction between double neutron stars (NSs) during their final inspiral within the framework of a unipolar inductor model. In this model, an electromotive force is induced on one NS to accelerate electrons to an ultra-relativistic speed instantaneously. We show that coherent curvature radiation from these electrons moving along magnetic field lines in the magnetosphere of the other NS is responsible for the observed FRB signal, that is, the characteristic emission frequency, luminosity, duration, and event rate of FRBs can be well understood. In addition, we discuss several implications of this model, including double-peaked FRBs and possible associations of FRBs with short-duration gamma-ray bursts and gravitational-wave events.
Anticoagulation Management in Patients with Pacemaker-Detected Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Poposka Lidija , Boskov Vladimir , Risteski Dejan , Taleski Jane , Georgievska-Ismail Ljubica
Published: April 2016

INTRODUCTION: In patients with an implanted pacemaker, asymptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with an increased risk of thrombo-embolic complications. There is still no consensus which duration of episodes of atrial fibrillation should be taken as an indicator for inclusion of oral anticoagulation therapy (OAC). MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 104 patients who had no AF episodes in the past and have an indication for permanent pacing were included in the study.RESULTS: During an average follow-up of 18 months, 33 of the patients developed episodes of AF. Inclusion of OAC was performed in 17 patients, in whom AF was recorded, although in all patients CHA2DS2-VASc score was â‰¥ 1. The inclusion of OAC showed a statistically significant correlation with increasing duration of episodes of AF (r = 0.502, p = 0.003). During the follow-up period none of the patients developed thrombo-embolic complication. CONCLUSION: Considering that our group of patients had no thrombo-embolic events, we could conclude that dividing the AF episodes in less than 1% in 24 hours and longer than 1% within 24 hours could be an indicator for decision-making to include OAK if the CHA2DS2-VASc score is â‰¥ 1.
La escuela de Torroja
Authors: Nadal Jaime
Published: April 2016

El Excmo. Sr. D. Eduardo Torroja Miret, Marqués de Torroja, era para sus discípulos nada más y nada menos que «Doneduardo». Esto dicho así, no parece tener otra particularidad que su convencional ortografía, ya que no de otro modo, es decir, por su nombre precedido de don, se habla de los profesores y, en general, de las personas que nos infunden respeto.
Torroja, constructor
Authors: Girón F.
Published: April 2016

En esta hora de laudes post mortem, de recuerdos, de sofocadas protestas contra lo irreparablemente consumado, aprovecho la oportunidad que me ofrece Informes de la Construcción para enviar estas breves líneas de afectuoso homenaje.
Sancti Spirit
Authors: Torroja Eduardo
Published: April 2016

Mucho más alto que el último pueblo del valle, a 1.500 metros de altitud, las aguas del San Nicolau, cansadas de saltar cascadas, se detienen a lo largo de unos pocos kilómetros, entreteniéndose en suaves meandros antes de volver a precipitarse en otra cascada mayor. La nieve cubre esa región la mayor parte del año, y en los meses de verano es lugar delicioso para el excursionista y el pescador de truchas. Sólo las tormentas bruscas, violentas y breves llegan con frecuencia a turbar la paz de su reposo en aquel edén. Puede cobijarse entonces bajo la media naranja del refugio, orientada a sotavento; y mientras pasa el aguacero, contemplar sus frescos inspirados por el nombre del lugar: Sancti Spirit.
La Cuba hiperbólica de Fedala
Authors: Torroja Eduardo
Published: April 2016

Se trata de una cuba para un depósito de 3.500 m3 de agua, montada sobre un castillete circular de soportes ya existentes de hormigón armado; y la contrata «Société Marocaine d'Entreprises Fernández» deseaba asegurar la impermeabilidad de la pared y del fondo del depósito.
Puentes en Marruecos
Authors: Torroja Eduardo
Published: April 2016

La "Société Marocaine d'Exploitation des Entreprises Fernández" solicitó la colaboración de Eduardo Torroja, como proyectista, para presentarse en conjunto a los concursos sobre puentes, convocados por el Ministerio de Obras Públicas del Reino de Marruecos. De entre las obras realizadas se presentan en este artículo cuatro puentes, que forman un grupo con características semejantes bien definidas.
Ucla, escuela elemental
Authors: Neutra Richard J. , Alexander Robert
Published: April 2016

La Escuela Elemental de Preparación de la Universidad de California, en Los Angeles, está dedicada a la educación e investigación y preparación del profesorado de la infancia. Se ha construido en un paraje maravilloso, de frondosa vegetación, frente a un terreno bastante quebrado, circunstancia que presta mayor encanto al conjunto, construido con gran pericia y adaptación al paisaje a base de una dominante horizontalidad, con materiales sencillos (ladrillos, hierro y madera) y gran comunicación con la naturaleza mediante grandes cristaleras correderas que ensanchan las clases y las suplementan hacia el jardín de acuerdo con las nuevas normas y prácticas docentes.
Casa Morpain
Authors: Parent Claude , Schein Lonel
Published: April 2016

Una casa fin de semana construida en las cercanías de París, en Fontainebleau. Es un proyecto de acusada personalidad, lo que nos lleva a prestarle una atención especial. Ha sido construida en una parcela con mediano desnivel, bien orientada, de fácil acceso y preciosas vistas sobre el Sena y el bosque que se extiende a lo largo de la orilla opuesta.
Edificios Serruchu y Serruchín
Authors: Álvarez Castelao Ignacio
Published: April 2016

En el centro cívico de Oviedo, en zona residencial de amplias calles y edificios aparentes, se levantan estos dos bloques de viviendas, denominados, popularmente, "Serruchu" y "Serruchín", debido a la configuración graciosa, movida y dentada de sus fachadas principales.
Galerías del Lido
Authors: Adatte Roger
Published: April 2016

La calle de Bourg es la que alberga el comercio de lujo, en el centro de la ciudad suiza de Lausana. Situada en un terreno de fuerte pendiente hacia el norte, ocasiona importantes diferencias de nivel. Las propiedades son estrechas y profundas, ordinariamente con tres plantas de diferencia entre las partes norte y sur.
Oficinas Fibracolor
Authors: Barba Corsini F. J. Barba Corsini
Published: April 2016

La Compañía Fibracolor, fabricante de tintes y colorantes para tejidos, alquiló una planta entera del edificio "Equitativa", del Paseo de Gracia, 44, para instalar sus oficinas.
Reformado de presas y canales del Sena inferior
Authors: Moineau L.
Published: April 2016

El programa de reforma y acomodación de las presas y canales existentes en el bajo Sena (Francia) acaba de experimentar un nuevo impulso. Este reformado, actualmente en ejecución entre Poissy y N. D. de La Garenne, consiste en la unión de los canales de La Garenne y Port-Villez, de un lado, y de Méricourt y Maulan, de otro.
Presa Andresy
Authors: Vié Georges
Published: April 2016

Esta obra, cuya construcción original se remonta al año 1848, se halla situada en las proximidades de la confluencia del río Oise con el Sena, y dentro del término municipal de Andresy (Francia). La presa actual se apoya sobre una solera de hormigón armado, de 20,5 m de extensión en el sentido del eje del río y de 2 m de espesor. Debajo de la solera se han hincado varias series de pilotes de hormigón armado con objeto de aumentar la capacidad de sustentación del fondo del río.
Unidad residencial Bellas Vistas
Authors: Vallejo Álvarez A. , Gámir Prieto L. , De Dampierre R. , García Valdecasas A. , Vallejo Acevedo A. , Serrano Moreno A.
Published: April 2016

Por Inmobiliaria Bellas Vistas se nos encomendó el estudio de dos edificios de viviendas, con plantas bajas destinadas a uso comercial, en los terrenos que aquélla posee en el Polígono de Actuación Municipal de Francos Rodríguez.
Túnel para variante de ferrocarril
Authors: Key Terris Alexander , Denton Morgan Horace
Published: April 2016

Por hacerse imprescindible modificar el trazado de la línea férrea de Londres a Edimburgo (Inglaterra) se ha perforado un túnel a través de un terreno arcilloso, cuya excavación y revestimiento son de interés. Esto sucedió al norte de Londres, en el distrito de Potters Bar y Hadley Woods, donde la línea de ferrocarril da paso diario a 350 trenes. Con objeto de evitar los embotellamientos se construyeron tres túneles de doble vía, paralelos al que originalmente existía.
La instrucción especial para estructuras de hormigón armado
Authors: García Meseguer Álvaro
Published: April 2016

El Instituto ha publicado, recientemente, las partes segunda y tercera de la Instrucción especial para estructuras de hormigón armado, «H.A.61», que se refieren a Documentos del Proyecto y a Cálculo de estructuras lineales planas, respectivamente. Dicha Instrucción, comparada con las que habitualmente se vienen utilizando, entraña tantas novedades que no es aventurado imaginar una reacción inicialmente hostil por parte de técnicos y proyectistas; cosa bien lógica, a nuestro modo de ver, puesto que, desde las primeras páginas —la notación, las definiciones—, el lector va tropezando con conceptos «raros», hasta con palabras «raras», y pocas veces encuentra el asidero de un término o de una idea que coincida con lo que él tiene ya muy trabajado y sabido. El objeto del presente artículo es adentrar en la H.A.61 —o mejor, divagar por ella—, llevados de la mano de un ejemplo muy sencillo. Tendremos, así, ocasión de comentar algunos puntos, a la vez que comparamos los resultados con los obtenidos utilizando el método clásico.
Escuela Bousfield, en Londres
Authors: Chamberlin, Powell y Bon Arquitectos
Published: April 2016

El análisis concienzudo y cuidadoso de las necesidades exigidas en el desarrollo de un edificio escolar de estas características ha llevado directamente al organigrama, proyecto y realización posterior de la Escuela Bousfield. La disposición particular del solar disponible fue premisa de consideración especial en este caso. Se prevé una capacidad de 560 alumnos.
Edificio Telefunken, en Berlín
Authors: Schwebes y Schoszberger Arquitectos
Published: April 2016

Situado en la plaza Ernst-Reuter, en el sector occidental del nuevo Berlín, este magnífico edificio levanta airoso sus veintiuna plantas, junto a otros semejantes, con los que forma un conjunto urbanístico de extraordinaria grandeza y configuración plástica. Una gran arteria, de casi 7 km de longitud, se extiende, en línea recta, hasta el Palacio de la Opera, desde donde asciende ligeramente hacia la plaza Ernst-Reuter.
Estación de Servicio, en Gijón
Authors: Marín Rodríguez – Rivas Mariano
Published: April 2016

El programa presentado consistía en proyectar una Estación de Servicio, engrase y lavado, de primera categoría, capaz de servir a coches y camiones de los tipos máximos, cuales son los que circulan por la densa zona industrial asturiana, en el norte de España. Además, se establece la premisa de que, en un futuro próximo, habrá de ser cruzada por una importante avenida en proyecto. Estas circunstancias reseñadas determinan la distribución en planta del complejo, sus zonas de trabajo, y áreas de maniobra, la simetría adoptada y la altura de las "sombrillas" protectoras.
El paso de dos Estrechos: Gibraltar y el Canal de la Mancha
Authors: Peña Boeuf Alfonso
Published: April 2016

Conferencia pronunciada por D. Alfonso Peña Boeuf. Ingeniero de caminos, canales y puertos el día 28 de febrero de 1962.
Transforming Mathematics Teaching through Games and Inquiry
Authors: Wiburg Karin , Chamberlin Barbara , Trujillo Karen M. , Parra Julia Lynn , Stanford Theodore
Published: April 2016

This chapter describes the design, development, and testing of a successful mathematics game-based intervention, Math Snacks, for students in grades 3–7. This program shows the impact of an integrative approach of developing Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK), where interactive digital media are combined with inquiry-based activities in classrooms facilitated by teacher involvement. Teachers played a key role in development and testing of Math Snacks, both by using them in their classrooms and by teaching core mathematics concepts connected to each module during annual summer camps. Via this multi-faceted participation, teachers experienced a change in their understanding of how digital tools can connect with inquiry-based pedagogy, mathematical content and pedagogical knowledge to facilitate successful learning for students. Teachers began to approach multimedia and games as part of an inquiry-based pedagogical approach for mathematics learning, rather than seeing games as tools for student practice after learning a concept.
Transforming Preservice Mathematics Teacher Knowledge for and with the Enacted Curriculum
Authors: Edson Alden J. , Thomas Amanda
Published: April 2016

In a curriculum system, instructional materials and their enactment impacts students learning of school mathematics. In this chapter, the authors re-examine enacted curriculum in light of research on Digital Instructional Materials (DIMs) and the critical role of the mathematics teacher. This chapter documents research from two different studies suggesting that, while effectively leveraging digital materials may require teachers to think outside of their traditional views of how mathematics content is learned and communicated, doing so requires more than the resources themselves. In order to seize upon the potential for DIMs to support student learning in mathematics, teacher preparation must offer opportunities for teachers to develop and transform their technological pedagogical content knowledge (TPACK) knowledge for and with DIMs. To this end, the authors propose specific recommendations for teacher preparation programs in the digital age.
Innovation in the Health System
Authors: Pessoa de Matos Marcelo , Soares Maria Clara Couto , Cassiolato José Eduardo , Queiroz Julia
Published: April 2016

This chapter discusses the main findings of five empirical studies focusing on local health innovation systems in Brazil. It focuses on the articulation of service and manufacturing segments within the Health complex and the other organizations that constitute a Local Innovation and Production System (LIPS) and discusses the learning, capacity building and innovation processes and their effective and potential impact on the local territory. The findings suggest that the types and intensity of interactions are closely related to the characteristics of what can be called a local cognitive territory. The directions of capacity building and scientific and technological evolution are directly influenced by conflicts among individuals and groups. The influence of these power relations, which are often associated with diverging private and public (collective) interests, highlights the importance of the institutional and policy dimensions for mediation and for promoting an evolution of the system that favors social inclusion and efficiency.
Contrast Modification Forensics Algorithm Based on Merged Weight Histogram of Run Length
Authors: Yang Liang , Gao Tiegang , Xuan Yan , Gao Hang
Published: April 2016

A novel image forensic algorithm against contrast modification based on merged weight histogram of run length is proposed. In the proposed algorithm, the run length histogram features were firstly extracted, and then those of different orientation were subsequently merged; after normalization of the prior features, the authors calculated leaps in the histogram numerically; lastly, the generated features of authentic and tampered images were trained by a SVM classifier. Large amounts of experiments show that, the proposed algorithm has low cost of computation complexity, compared with some existing scheme, and it has better performance with many test databases, furthermore, the proposed algorithm can effectively detect local contrast modification of image.
Strategies to sustain a quality improvement initiative in neonatal resuscitation
Authors: Van Heerden Carlien , Maree Carin , Janse van Rensburg Elsie S.
Published: April 2016

Background: Many neonatal deaths can be prevented globally through effective resuscitation. South Africa (SA) committed towards attaining the Millennium Development Goal 4 (MDG4) set by the World Health Organization (WHO). However, SA’s district hospitals have the highest early neonatal mortality rates. Modifiable and avoidable causes associated with patient-related, administrative and health care provider factors contribute to neonatal mortality. A quality improvement initiative in neonatal resuscitation could contribute towards decreasing neonatal mortality, thereby contributing towards the attainment of the MDG4.Aim: The aim of this study was, (1) to explore and describe the existing situation regarding neonatal resuscitation in a district hospital, (2) to develop strategies to sustain a neonatal resuscitation quality improvement initiative and (3) to decrease neonatal mortality. Changes that occurred and the sustainability of strategies were evaluated.Setting: A maternity section of a district hospital in South Africa.Methods: The National Health Service (NHS) Sustainability Model formed the theoretical framework for the study. The Problem Resolving Action Research model was applied and the study was conducted in three cycles. Purposive sampling was used for the quantitative and qualitative aspects of data collection. Data was analysed accordingly.Results: The findings indicated that the strategies formulated and implemented to address factors related to neonatal resuscitation (training, equipment and stock, staff shortages, staff attitude, neonatal transport and protocols) had probable sustainability and contributed towards a reduction in neonatal mortality in the setting.Conclusion: These strategies had the probability of sustainability and could potentially improve neonatal outcomes and reduce neonatal mortality to contribute toward South Africa’s drive to attain the MDG4.
Breast Cancer in the Bahamas in 2009–2011
Authors: Mungrue K. , Chase H. , Gordon J. , Knowles D. , Lockhart K. , Miller N. , Morley T. , Sealey L. , Turner B.
Published: April 2016

Background

Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer affecting women in the Bahamas, which consists of many islands. This is the first attempt to identify which island has the highest occurrence of breast cancer.

Objective

The aim of this study was to describe the sociodemographical and spatial features of breast cancer in the Bahamas in 2009–2011.

Methods

A review of the medical records of all women with a confirmed diagnosis of breast cancer during the period January 1, 2009-December 31, 2011, was undertaken. Data were first obtained from the National Oncology Board of the Bahamas and validated by a review of the medical records. The patient address was geocoded and mapped using ArcGIS 10.0 Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI) to satellite images obtained from The Nature Conservancy in the Bahamas.

Results

We recruited 270 patients who satisfied the entry criteria. The cumulative incidences of breast cancer for the years 2009–2011 were 51.4, 45.4, and 51.4, respectively. Breast cancer occurred most often in women of African origin with a mean age at diagnosis of 56.6 ± 13.8 years. Ductal carcinoma was the most common histological type observed with most cancers occurring in Grade II or higher and presenting as late stage (≥ Stage II). Surgery was the preferred method of treatment with modified radical mastectomy being the procedure of choice. Spatial distribution of cases across the Bahamas revealed one cluster, which is present on the island of New Providence. Further analysis of New Providence showed a consistently skewed kernel density in the central and eastern regions, compared with a scattered distribution in the southern and western regions.

Conclusion

The island of New Providence had the highest occurrence of breast cancer among all the islands of the Bahamas. The increasing incidence of breast cancer in young women is likely to impose a significant burden on the future of Bahamian health care.
Risk of Infectious Complications in Hemato-Oncological Patients Treated with Kinase Inhibitors
Authors: Reinwald Mark , Boch Tobias , Hofmann Wolf-Karsten , Buchheidt Dieter
Published: April 2016

Infectious complications are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with hemato-oncological diseases. Although disease-related immunosuppression represents one factor, aggressive treatment regimens, such as chemotherapy, stem cell transplantation, or antibody treatment, account for a large proportion of infectious side effects. With the advent of targeted therapies affecting specific kinases in malignant diseases, the outcome of patients has further improved. Nonetheless, dependent on the specific pathway targeted or off-target activity of the kinase inhibitor, therapy-associated infectious complications may occur. We review the most common and approved kinase inhibitors targeting a variety of hemato-oncological malignancies for their immunosuppressive potential and evaluate their risk of infectious side effects based on preclinical evidence and clinical data in order to raise awareness of the potential risks involved.
Microbial Diversity in the Gut of Cashew Stem Girdler, Analeptes trifasciata Fabricius (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae), in Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Oyedokun A.V. , Adeniyi D.O.
Published: April 2016

The cashew stem girdler, Analeptes trifasciata, is a major insect pest of cashew in Nigeria causing economic damage in cashew plantations even at low density. In this study, newly emerged adults of A. trifasciata reared from field-infested cashew stems were collected from the rearing cages, sexed, and dissected to reveal the internal structures of the insects. The gut was excised and separated into the foregut, midgut, and hindgut. The dissected gut compartments were blotted dry by sandwiching in sterile Whatman No. 1 (150 mm) filter paper for a minute. The inoculated gut parts showed the presence of eight fungi flora, namely, Aspergillus repens, Trichoderma spp., Fusarium verticillioides, Lasiodiplodia theobromae, yeast, Aspergillus niger, Fusarium spp., and Rhizopus stolonifer. The frequencies of occurrence of bacteria in the gut compartments of A. trifasciata were Enterobacter spp.: 83.33%; Escherichia coli and Streptococcus spp.: 55.56% each; Staphylococcus spp.: 44.44%; Klebsiella pneumonia: 50% and Salmonella shigella: 11.11%, while each of Serratia marceascea, Pseudomonas spp., and Micrococcus lutea had 5.56% occurrence. The occurrence of mycoflora and microbiota species varied in the gut compartments of A. trifasciata, indicating the role of these microorganisms in metabolic and other bioprocesses of A. trifasciata during digestion and synthesis of complex food substances from the cashew stem substrate. This study would provide basic information for enzymatic studies of A. trifasciata with a view to developing an integrated pest management (IPM) protocol for managing the pest in cashew plantations.
Benign Sphenoid Wing Meningioma Presenting with an Acute Intracerebral Hemorrhage – A Case Report
Authors: Frič Radek , Hald John K. , Antal Ellen-Ann
Published: April 2016

Background and Study Object

We report an unusual case of a benign lateral sphenoid wing meningioma that presented with, and was masked by, an acute intracerebral hemorrhage.

Case Report

A 68-year-old woman was admitted after sudden onset of coma. Computed tomography (CT) revealed an intracerebral hemorrhage, without any underlying vascular pathology on CT angiography. During the surgery, we found a lateral sphenoid wing meningioma with intratumoral bleeding that extended into the surrounding brain parenchyma.

Results

We removed the hematoma and resected the tumor completely in the same session. The histopathological classification of the tumor was a WHO grade I meningothelial meningioma. The patient recovered very well after surgery, without significant neurological sequelae.

Conclusions

Having reviewed the relevant references from the medical literature, we consider this event as an extremely rare presentation of a benign sphenoid wing meningioma in a patient without any predisposing medical factors. The possible mechanisms of bleeding from this tumor type are discussed.
Preoperative Localization of Parathyroid Adenomas with Methoxyisobutylisonitrile and Ultrasonography: Are There Advantages of a Combined Approach?
Authors: Ridyard Edward
Published: April 2016

Aim

To identify whether the combination of Methoxyisobutylisonitrile (MIBI) and ultrasound scan (USS) in localizing the parathyroid gland preoperatively is more effective than either MIBI or USS alone.

Materials and methods

Retrospective manual analysis of patients’ operative and medical notes was undertaken. Patients presenting with raised serum calcium and parathyroid hormone (PTH) between February 2009 and April 2012 (n = 76) were included in the study.

The sensitivity of localizing parathyroid adenomas via MIBI and USS with confirmation by histological evaluation of tissue following parathyroidectomy was assessed.

Results

The combination of MIBI and USS provided a statistically significant improvement in preoperative localization of parathyroid adenoma over MIBI or USS alone (p = 0.033 and p = 0.043 respectively).

Conclusion

Ultrasound scan alone had a statistically much higher sensitivity to localize a parathyroid adenoma than MIBI and we therefore advise USS to be a first-line investigation with MIBI in reserve for when USS fails to identify an abnormality. However, the combination of both USS and MIBI provides a statistically improved preoperative visualization of parathyroid adenoma and thus reduces the risk of requiring further surgery.

How to cite this article

Ridyard E. Preoperative Localization of Parathyroid Adenomas with Methoxyisobutylisonitrile and Ultrasonography: Are There Advantages of a Combined Approach? Int J Head Neck Surg 2015;6(2):45-48.
Aerosol optical properties in the southeastern United States in summer – Part 1: Hygroscopic growth
Authors: Brock Charles A. , Wagner Nicholas L. , Anderson Bruce E. , Attwood Alexis R. , Beyersdorf Andreas , Campuzano-Jost Pedro , Carlton Annmarie G. , Day Douglas A. , Diskin Glenn S. , Gordon Timothy D. , Jimenez Jose L. , Lack Daniel A. , Liao Jin , Markovic Milos Z. , Middlebrook Ann M. , Ng Nga L. , Perring Anne E. , Richardson Matthews S. , Schwarz Joshua P. , Washenfelder Rebecca A. , Welti Andre , Xu Lu , Ziemba Luke D. , Murphy Daniel M.
Published: April 2016

Abstract. Aircraft observations of meteorological, trace gas, and aerosol properties were made during May–September 2013 in the southeastern United States (US) under fair-weather, afternoon conditions with well-defined planetary boundary layer structure. Optical extinction at 532 nm was directly measured at relative humidities (RHs) of  ∼  15,  ∼  70, and  ∼  90 % and compared with extinction calculated from measurements of aerosol composition and size distribution using the κ-Köhler approximation for hygroscopic growth. The calculated enhancement in hydrated aerosol extinction with relative humidity, f(RH), calculated by this method agreed well with the observed f(RH) at  ∼  90 % RH. The dominance of organic aerosol, which comprised 65 ± 10 % of particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter  <  1 µm in the planetary boundary layer, resulted in relatively low f(RH) values of 1.43 ± 0.67 at 70 % RH and 2.28 ± 1.05 at 90 % RH. The subsaturated κ-Köhler hygroscopicity parameter κ for the organic fraction of the aerosol must have been  <  0.10 to be consistent with 75 % of the observations within uncertainties, with a best estimate of κ  =  0.05. This subsaturated κ value for the organic aerosol in the southeastern US is broadly consistent with field studies in rural environments. A new, physically based, single-parameter representation was developed that better described f(RH) than did the widely used gamma power-law approximation.