bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Use of Social Networking Sites by Adolescents with Psychiatric Illnesses: A Qualitative Study
Authors: van Schalkwyk Gerrit Ian , Klingensmith Katherine , McLaughlin Paige , Qayyum Zheala
Published: July 2016

Background:

Social networking sites (SNSs) are increasingly dominant platforms for communication among adolescents. Recently, concerns have been raised about the risks involved with SNS use, particularly among more vulnerable adolescents.

Objective:

Our goal was to explore the experience of SNS use by adolescents with psychiatric illnesses. We also sought to understand the ways in which these sites may be a useful way to communicate—as well as a potential source of increased stress—for this vulnerable population.

Methods:

We performed a qualitative study by conducting in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 20 adolescents (mean age, 16 years; 15 female and 5 male participants) attending the Yale Adolescent Intensive Outpatient Program, which includes 3 hours of outpatient treatment 3 or 4 days per week.

Results:

The participants in our study described multiple ways in which SNSs possessed unique utility as platforms for communication. Participants found that SNSs allowed them to reach out to a broader audience and to “broadcast” feelings of distress without forcing any specific person into a supportive discussion. In addition, SNSs were described as lower-stress means of communication that allowed responses to be carefully formulated; this led to participants sharing information that they would not have shared during face-to-face interactions. However, participants also described anxiety surrounding the pressure to be active on SNSs, and they found it stressful to be exposed to pictures and posts involving former romantic partners.

Conclusion:

SNSs provide a useful platform for adolescents with psychiatric illnesses to use to communicate, particularly with regard to communicating any feelings of distress. However, there are many ways in which SNSs can increase levels of anxiety, and this aspect may be an important focus of future clinical attention.
A Body to Make Luanda: The Black Woman from the Countryside in Angolan Literature
Authors: Garraio Júlia
Published: July 2016

This article examines how the image of the black woman from the countryside who moves to Luanda was developed at three key moments in Angolan literature as a means of constructing national identity. The analysis focuses on  Nga Mutúri (1882), by Alfredo Troni ; “Linda,” a short story from A Casa da Mãezinha, by António Cardoso; and “Martinha,” a short story from Momento de Ilusão (2000), by Fragata de Morais.
Introduction. Four Decades of Independence: The Multiple Cultures of Portuguese-speaking Africa
Authors: Rothwell Phillip , Martinho Ana Maria
Published: July 2016

Introduction to the special issue on Lusophone African literature and cultures.
Sousa, Sandra. Ficções do Outro: Império, Raça e Subjectividade do Moçambique Colonial. Lisbon: Esfera do Caos, 2015. Print.
Authors: Jerónimo Miguel Bandeira
Published: July 2016

Benefiting from a short but incisive and perspicacious preface by Leonor Simas-Almeida, Ficções do Outro is an important contribution to one of the most dynamic fields of Portuguese contemporary historiography, the one focused on the imperial and colonial pasts and their legacies.
Education for the ASEAN Community – The Case of Indonesia
Authors: Umboh Pingkan
Published: July 2016

Education plays a significant role in all of the strategies made and initiatives taken to achieve various outcomes of ASEAN. One of the core strategies which engage the Higher Education sector to meet the ASEAN Community in 2015 was “Cross‐border mobility and internationalisation of education—to promote regional sharing, cultivate a regional perspective among member states and contribute to the spirit of regional unity and excellence.” The purpose of this practice note is to find and analyse initiatives taken by the Government and Higher Education institutions focussing in Indonesia, the largest population and largest economy country in ASEAN and how the initiatives positioned the education in the region. This note is intended to contribute to the knowledge of ASEAN Community, especially on its education area.
Inaugural Editorial: ASEAN Studies from Capital City of ASEAN
Authors: Mursitama Tirta
Published: July 2016

[no abstract available]
Editorial: ASEAN and Taiwan
Authors: Mursitama Tirta
Published: July 2016

[not available]
Relationship between Military Expenditure and Economic Growth in ASEAN: Evidence from Indonesia
Authors: Chairil Tangguh , Sinaga Dedy , Febrianti Annisa
Published: July 2016

World military expenditure in post-Cold War world shows increasing trend especially in ASEAN region; Indonesia is no exception. The trend may have been supported by the argument that military expenditure has positive multiplier effects on economic growth. Unfortunately, there have been not too many studies on the effect of military expenditure on economic growth in the Indonesia context. This paper examines the topic by first reviewing literature on the relationship between military expenditure and economic growth, then by empirically testing the causal relationship between the two variables by using the Augmented Sollow Growth Model. The result shows that Indonesia's military expenditure has positive effect on the country's economic growth, which is most possibly caused by development of human capital as effect of military expenditure.
Editorial: Indonesian Industrialization and the Changing of Southeast Asia Geopolitics
Authors: Mursitama Tirta
Published: July 2016

[not available]
Fecal sludge-derived pellet fertilizer in maize cultivation
Authors: Pradhan Surendra K. , Nikiema Josiane , Cofie Olufunke O. , Heinonen-Tanski Helvi , Drechsel Pay
Published: July 2016

Fecal sludge (FS) contains significant amounts of plant nutrients and organic matter although it also contains pathogens. Therefore, FS can be used as fertilizer after proper sanitization. This study was designed to test dried fecal sludge (DFS)-based pellet fertilizers on maize cultivation. The DFS fertilizers were produced by composting, co-composting with sawdust, or irradiated by gamma-irradiation, and then nitrogen-enriched and pelletized using gelatinized or gamma-irradiated cassava starch. These DFS pellet fertilizers were compared to each other and to no-fertilization, mineral fertilizer, and agro-industrial waste compost. The fertilizer applications were 150 or 210 kgN/ha. Maize was cultivated in pots containing Cambisol and Ferric Lixisol growth media. The EC-SDFS-PG pellet (DFS + sawdust co-composted, enriched with nitrogen and pelletized) at a rate of 210 kgN/ha produced the highest maize yield (4.4 ton/ha) among all other treatments, while mineral fertilizer produced 3.9 ton/ha. It is concluded that the EC-SDFS-PG pellet produces similar or higher maize yields than mineral fertilizer and more than the agro-industrial compost in both growth media types.
Uso de composta, minerales primarios amorfos y microorganismos para la producción y calidad de tomate
Authors: Parra-Delgado Juan Martín , Velázquez-Alcaraz Teresa de J. , Quero-Gutiérrez Edgar , Partida-Ruvalcaba Leopoldo , Díaz-Valdés Tomás , Galván-Piña Blas , Ayala-Tafoya Felipe
Published: July 2016

La presente investigación se realizó con el objetivo de determinar el efecto de la composta bocashi, minerales primarios amorfos y microorganismos en el rendimiento y calidad postcosecha de tomate tipo saladette (Lycopersicum esculentum Mill.), híbrido “Moctezuma”. El cultivo se realizó en suelo bajo condiciones de invernadero, durante el ciclo agrícola otoño-invierno 2011-2012. Se utilizó una densidad de población de 2,5 plantas m2, manejadas a un tallo y con una separación de 1,6 m entre hileras. La composta bocashi, los minerales primarios amorfos y los microorganismos fueron incorporados al suelo 30 días antes del inicio del cultivo, y estos últimos también se aplicaron después del trasplante. Se evaluó el rendimiento total y de tomates extra grandes, grandes, medianos y chicos de ocho racimos por planta, así como su calidad postcosecha. Para las variables de rendimiento se consideró un diseño experimental de bloques completos al azar conformado por nueve tratamientos, mientras que para el estudio de calidad postcosecha se utilizó un diseño completamente al azar con los mismos tratamientos. El mayor rendimiento (113,97 Mg ha-1) se obtuvo con el tratamiento compuesto por 25 y 6 Mg ha-1 de composta y minerales primarios amorfos, respectivamente, el cual superó en 9,3 % a los rendimientos logrados solo con la solución Steiner, aunque sin diferencia estadísticamente significativa entre ambos promedios. Los tratamientos no tuvieron ningún efecto en el pH, la acidez titulable y los sólidos solubles totales.
Efecto del fotoperiodo sobre el crecimiento de la diatomea Chaetoceros calcitrans (clon c-cal) en cultivos estáticos
Authors: Villa Alina , Herazo Diana , Torregroza Ana Carolina
Published: July 2016

Se evaluó el crecimiento de Chaetoceros calcitrans en un sistema estático a 35 ppt de salinidad y con los fotoperiodos de 0:24, 6:18, 10:14 y 24:0 horas luz:oscuridad. Los bioensayos se realizaron en frascos de 200 ml por cuadriplicado bajo condiciones controladas de laboratorio, utilizando el medio de cultivo F/2. Las variables monitoreadas cada 48 horas fueron luz, temperatura, pH y conteos celulares directos.  El fotoperiodo afectó de manera directa la concentración celular y la tasa de crecimiento de C. calcitrans, siendo mayores con 24 horas luz, con valores de 2´713,333 cel.ml-1 y 0,17 div.dia-1, mientras que la concentración mínima y la tasa de crecimiento con 0 horas luz fue 0 cel.ml-1 y -0,03 div.dia-1, respectivamente. Se observó una relación lineal positiva (r= 0.567; F(1,10)= 4.754; P< 0.05) entre el fotoperiodo y la tasa de crecimiento algal.  El pH osciló entre 6,7 y 7,5 con valores que tendieron a disminuir en todos los tratamientos a medida que avanzaron los días de cultivo.  Se presentó una correlación negativa, poco significativa entre el pH y la densidad celular de C. calcitrans (r2= -0,369). Los resultados indican que el crecimiento de C. calcitrans es determinado por el fotoperiodo con un crecimiento óptimo a luz continua.
Efecto de la poda fitosanitaria sobre la enfermedad escoba de bruja en el cultivo de cacao
Authors: Rivera-Fernández Rubén Darío , Valarezo-Beltron Oswaldo , Vera-Macías Leonardo , Chavarría-Párraga Jesús Enrique , Guzmán-Cedeño Ángel Monserrate
Published: July 2016

La enfermedad escoba de bruja es el principal problema fitosanitario del cacao y su manejo está en función de la poda fitosanitaria, sin embargo, su eficiencia está supeditada al tiempo de aplicación. El objetivo del presente estudio fue establecer el momento adecuado para realizar la poda en la estación de verano. Se estudió la poda fitosanitaria en dos meses dentro de la estación de verano. La primera en el mes de agosto (1-15) y la segunda en diciembre (1-15). Como material experimental se utilizaron los Clones de cacao 575 y 576 de 15 años de edad con una densidad de siembra de 1111 pl.ha-1. Se identificó el ciclo biológico de Moniliophthora perniciosa registrando: inoculación, incubación e infección, tomando como tiempo los días de cada etapa. Además, después de la poda fitosanitaria se contaron las infecciones tanto en brotes, cojinetes y mazorcas, y con ello se obtuvo el promedio del número de infecciones por árbol. Entre el 10 y 15 de enero se inició la esporulación del hongo. La presencia de síntomas se observó 45,6±0,9 días posteriores a la esporulación. La fase parásita tuvo un tiempo de 39,4±9,22 y la necrosis total fue de 10,11±3,4 días. Después de realizada la poda fitosanitaria en agosto se presentaron nuevas formaciones de M. perniciosa, las mismas que estuvieron en capacidad de formar basidiocarpos en la estación invernal subsiguiente. Por el contrario, al podar en diciembre no se cuenta con hongos con capacidad de formar basidiocarpos. Las evidencias muestran la influencia de la poda fitosanitaria realizada en diciembre sobre el ciclo biológico de M. perniciosa y los niveles de infestación en el cacao.
Efectos del cambio climático sobre la distribución potencial de los flebotominos transmisores de leishmaniasis en Mérida Venezuela
Authors: Nieves Elsa , Rujano Maria , Ospino Héctor , Oraá Luzmary , Rondón Yorfer , Sánchez Mireya , Rondón Maritza , Sánchez Yetsenia , Rojas Masyelly , González Nestor , Cazorla Dalmiro
Published: July 2016

La leishmaniasis constituye un grave problema de salud pública en diferentes partes del mundo. Es conocido que los efectos del calentamiento global han aumentado en los últimos años, con la consecuente modificación, a corto y largo plazo, de los hábitats de los flebotominos, lo que potencialmente puede impactar en la transmisión de la leishmaniasis. En el presente trabajo se evaluó el efecto del cambio climático en la distribución geográfica de los flebotominos transmisores de la leishmaniasis cutánea, en Mérida, Venezuela. Para el análisis se tuvieron en cuenta cuatro especies vectoras Lutzomyia youngi, L. gomezi, L. ovallesi y L. walkeri y se usó un modelo atmósfera-océano Hadcm3, bajo la premisa de cambio climático en un escenario pesimista A2, con proyecciones para los años 2020, 2050 y 2080. Los resultados del modelo mostraron para L. youngi un incremento en su distribución, para L. gomezi cambios y desplazamiento en su distribución potencial futura, para L. ovallesi se mostró como la especie que puede ser más afectada por el aumento de la temperatura, con predicciones de cambios en su distribución futura, y para la distribución de L. walkeri no se mostró afectación por el cambio climático. Por otro lado, el modelo recreó escenarios de cambio climático, con predicciones de solapamiento de las principales especies transmisora, en los municipios de mayor densidad poblacional, lo que sugiere un mayor riesgo de transmisión de la leishmaniasis en el estado Mérida en los próximos años. Los mapas generados proporcionan información relevante para alertar sobre cambios en los patrones de transmisión de la leishmaniasis, además serán una herramienta útil para los entes de control y prevención.
Ficoperifíton asociado a macrófitas en la ciénaga Cerro de San Antonio, Magdalena-Colombia
Authors: Osorio-Ávila Farid Jesús , Manjarres-García Gustavo Adolfo
Published: July 2016

El estudio de algas del perifiton en humedales tropicales, permite interpretar la dinámica de estos ecosistemas con importancia ecológica y con vocación para ofrecer diferentes servicios a la población humana. El propósito de este trabajo fue determinar la estructura del ensamble ficoperifítico y evaluar su agremiación o preferencia de sustrato (macrófitas), en una ciénaga tropical. Se registraron 48 especies, los grupos de clorófitas y diatomeas, fueron dominantes. El ensamble algal mostró baja variación en cuanto a los índices comunitarios (diversidad, dominancia, riqueza), sin embargo se hallaron diferencias en las abundancias del ficoperifiton de cada una de las macrófitas evaluadas. También se encontraron diferencias en cuanto a la selectividad de sustrato de algunas especies tales como Closterium kuetzingii (Brébisson), Cocconeis placentula (Ehrenberg) y Hantzschia sp. (Ehrenberg), las cuales solo estuvieron presentes en las raíces de Eichhornia crassipes, a su vez Coelastrum sphaericum (Nägeli) solo se encontró en raíces de Pistia stratiotes. Se da el primer registro de la especie Ankistrodesmus fusiformis (Corda), para las ciénagas del departamento del Magdalena.
La facilitación como un mecanismo que incrementa la diversidad vegetal en ambientes extremos
Authors: Lasso-Rivas Nilsen L.
Published: July 2016

Tradicionalmente se consideró que las interacciones negativas entre especies de plantas eran la fuerza modeladora de la estructura y el funcionamiento de los ecosistemas, mientras las interacciones positivas eran de poca importancia en ese sentido. Dicha visión ha cambiado en las últimas décadas y actualmente se considera que las interacciones de tipo positivo, también juegan un papel importante para la estructuración y el funcionamiento de los ecosistemas. La facilitación es un tipo de interacción positiva no trófica, que se produce entre plantas fisiológicamente independientes y que está mediada a través de cambios en el entorno abiótico o a través de otros organismos. La mayor parte de la investigación realizada en el campo de la facilitación en los últimos veinte años se ha desarrollado a partir de la hipótesis del gradiente de estrés (HGE). La facilitación puede actuar directa o indirectamente a través de diferentes mecanismos. Los resultados de múltiples investigaciones, indican que la facilitación puede aumentar la diversidad de las especies vegetales en ambientes extremos, donde la presencia de una especie nodriza modifica el ambiente de manera tal, que resulta en una reducción en la frecuencia e intensidad de alguna perturbación física o estrés, permitiendo que las especies menos tolerantes puedan sobrevivir. Sin embargo, existen pocos estudios que cuantifiquen el número de especies que se agregan a una comunidad debido a la facilitación, así el reto es diseñar experimentos y estudios que permitan cuantificar la importancia relativa de la facilitación para el mantenimiento de la biodiversidad en ecosistemas extremos.
Primer registro de la diatomea Chrysanthemodiscus floriatus Mann 1925, (Chrysanthemodiscaceae) en las costas del Caribe colombiano
Authors: Vidal Luis Alfonso , Quiroga Sigmer , García-Urueña Rocío
Published: July 2016

From the observation of micropreparations of diatoms of epiphytic habits, deposited as reference material in the collection of macroalgae Germán Bula-Meyer, from the Centro de Colecciones Biológicas de Universidad del Magdalena, we obtained the first record of the benthic diatom Chrisanthemodiscus floriatus Mann 1925, (Chrysanthemodiscaceae), to the Colombian Caribbean, in the Bay of Cinto in the Tayrona National Park , Magdalena-Colombia; its distribution known so far was in the northern hemisphere between 5 and 30°
Comparison of stepwise vs single-step advancement with the Functional Mandibular Advancer in Class II division 1 treatment
Authors: Aras Isil , Pasaoglu Aylin , Olmez Sultan , Unal Idil , Tuncer Ali Vehbi , Aras Aynur
Published: July 2016

Objective: To compare two groups of subjects at the peak of the pubertal growth period treated with the Functional Mandibular Advancer (FMA; Forestadent, Pforzheim, Germany) appliance using either single-step or stepwise mandibular advancement.

Materials and Methods: This study was conducted on 34 Class II division 1 malocclusion subjects at or just before the peak phase of pubertal growth as assessed by hand-wrist radiographs. Subjects were assigned to two groups of mandibular advancement, using matched randomization. Both groups were treated with the FMA. While the mandible was advanced to a super Class I molar relation in the single-step advancement group (SSG), patients in the stepwise mandibular advancement group (SWG) had a 4-mm initial bite advancement and subsequent 2-mm advancements at bimonthly intervals. The material consisted of lateral cephalograms taken before treatment and after 10 months of FMA treatment. Data were analyzed by means paired t-tests and an independent t-test.

Results: There were statistically significant changes in SNB, Pg horizontal, ANB, Co-Gn, and Co-Go measurements in both groups (P < .001); these changes were greater in the SWG with the exception of Co-Go (P < .05). While significant differences were found in U1-SN, IMPA, L6 horizontal, overjet, and overbite appraisals in each group (P < .001), these changes were comparable (P > .05).

Conclusion: Because of the higher rates of sagittal mandibular skeletal changes, FMA using stepwise advancement of the mandible might be the appliance of choice for treating Class II division 1 malocclusions.
Single-Cell Transcriptomics of the Human Endocrine Pancreas
Authors: Wang Yue J. , Schug Jonathan , Won Kyoung-Jae , Liu Chengyang , Naji Ali , Avrahami Dana , Golson Maria L. , Kaestner Klaus H.
Published: July 2016

Human pancreatic islets consist of multiple endocrine cell types. To facilitate the detection of rare cellular states and uncover population heterogeneity, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) on islets from multiple deceased organ donors, including children, healthy adults, and individuals with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. We developed a robust computational biology framework for cell type annotation. Using this framework, we show that α- and β-cells from children exhibit less well-defined gene signatures than those in adults. Remarkably, α- and β-cells from donors with type 2 diabetes have expression profiles with features seen in children, indicating a partial dedifferentiation process. We also examined a naturally proliferating α-cell from a healthy adult, for which pathway analysis indicated activation of the cell cycle and repression of checkpoint control pathways. Importantly, this replicating α-cell exhibited activated Sonic hedgehog signaling, a pathway not previously known to contribute to human α-cell proliferation. Our study highlights the power of single-cell RNA-seq and provides a stepping stone for future explorations of cellular heterogeneity in pancreatic endocrine cells.
Choice of a suitable diabetes risk assessment tool in Nepal – can we learn from Canada?
Authors: Agarwal Gina , Sathian Brijesh , Agrawal Sutapa
Published: July 2016

If the population can be made more aware about diabetes by the use of a risk assessment tool as an educational tool as well, it could help to curb the diabetes epidemic in Nepal. Education of the masses about diabetes risk factors, prevention, and complications is urgently needed, using clear and simple messages. National policy efforts can be strengthened and health  outcomes improved when awareness is increased. Perhaps learning from Canada is a start, and Nepal will be able to make progress with something simple like ‘NEPAL-RISK’?
Incretin – based therapy in diabetes mellitus: present scenario and expanding horizons
Authors: Kohli Suresh Chandra
Published: July 2016

Let us hope that best is yet to come which is likely to bring us nearer to achieving our cherished goal of finding a cure of diabetes. I would like to sum up with an optimistic note by quoting Cristopher Reeve “So many of our dreams at first seem impossible, then they seem improbable, and then when we summon the will, they soon become inevitable ‘’.
Harrowing Blindness and Ocular Morbidity in a Himalayan Village
Authors: Pokharel Amrit , Kandel Himal , Shrestha Reshma
Published: July 2016

To address this terrible situation, we propose the following solutions: in the short term, conduct regular eye health camps with appropriate management locally. In the long term, to strengthen primary eye care and integrate it into general health, by training primary health care workers in primary eye care (more specifically assessing visual acuity) establishing adequate referral channels. Currently, unfortunately, much of eye care service delivery remains centered on the district headquarters and accessible places, with other remote regions left unattended. We hope our report will awaken all concerned to the dire need for equitable eye care across the country.
Burden of Fungal Infections in Nepal
Authors: Nayak Niranjan
Published: July 2016

It is, therefore, needless to emphasize that there is a significant burden of existing as well as emerging fungal diseases in Nepal. It is high time that epidemiological studies be conducted to validate these issues.
Beyond the game: the legacy of Bill Masterton
Authors: Bonfield Christopher M. , Kondziolka Douglas
Published: July 2016

Bill Masterton is the only man to die of injuries sustained in a National Hockey League (NHL) game. He remains the last fatality in any professional team sport involving a direct in-game injury in North America. While Masterton was originally thought to have suffered a fatal brain injury while being checked on the ice, later analysis of the case revealed evidence of second-impact syndrome and the effects of prior concussions. Masterton's death sparked both an immediate debate in the NHL on whether helmets should be compulsory and the NHL's first vote on mandatory helmet use. Although the subject of mandated helmet use met with resistance in the 10 years after Masterton's death, especially from hockey owners and coaches, the NHL finally legislated helmet use by all players entering the league beginning in the 1979–1980 season.

Several awards, including one recognizing the NHL player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey, have been created in memory of Masterton. However, his legacy extends far beyond the awards that bear his name. His death was the seminal event bringing head safety to the forefront of a game that was both unready and unwilling to accept change. An increase in mainstream media attention in recent years has led to unprecedented public awareness of brain injury and concussion in hockey and other sports. Advances in the diagnosis and treatment of head injury in sports have occurred recently, the impetus for which started over 45 years ago, when Bill Masterton died.
Minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion with percutaneous navigated guidewireless lumbosacral pedicle screw fixation
Authors: Chen Kevin S. , Park Paul
Published: July 2016

This video details the minimally invasive approach for treatment of a symptomatic Grade II lytic spondylolisthesis with high-grade foraminal stenosis. In this procedure, the use of a navigated, guidewireless technique for percutaneous pedicle screw placement at the lumbosacral junction is highlighted following initial decompression and transforaminal interbody fusion. Key steps of the procedure are delineated that include positioning, exposure, technique for interbody fusion, intraoperative image acquisition, and use of a concise 2-step process for navigated screw placement without using guidewires.

The video can be found here: https://youtu.be/2u6H4Pc_8To.
Minimally invasive L5–S1 oblique lumbar interbody fusion with anterior plate
Authors: Pham Martin H. , Jakoi Andre M. , Hsieh Patrick C.
Published: July 2016

Lumbar interbody fusion is an important technique for the treatment of degenerative disc disease and degenerative scoliosis. The oblique lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF) establishes a minimally invasive retroperitoneal exposure anterior to the psoas and lumbar plexus. In this video case presentation, the authors demonstrate the techniques of the OLIF at L5–S1 performed on a 69-year-old female with degenerative scoliosis as one component of an overall strategy for her deformity correction.

The video can be found here: https://youtu.be/VMUYWKLAl0g.
Minimally invasive transforaminal lumbosacral interbody fusion
Authors: Chang Peng-Yuan , Wang Michael Y.
Published: July 2016

In minimally invasive spinal fusion surgery, transforaminal lumbar (sacral) interbody fusion (TLIF) is one of the most common procedures that provides both anterior and posterior column support without retraction or violation to the neural structure. Direct and indirect decompression can be done through this single approach. Preoperative plain radiographs and MR scan should be carefully evaluated. This video demonstrates a standard approach for how to perform a minimally invasive transforaminal lumbosacral interbody fusion.

The video can be found here: https://youtu.be/bhEeafKJ370.
Introduction to Lumbosacral and Sacropelvic Fixation Strategies
Authors: Hsieh Patrick C. , Mummaneni Praveen V.
Published: July 2016

We are pleased to present this Neurosurgical Focus video supplement on lumbosacral and sacropelvic fixation strategies. Despite advancement in surgical techniques and technologies in spine, achieving consistent solid fusion across the lumbosacral junction remains a major challenge. The anatomy of the lumbosacral junction allows for a higher range of motion compared to other areas of the thoracolumbar spine. The L5-S1 interspace is exposed to significant shear forces. As a result, complications such as pseudoarthrosis, screw pull-out, implant fracture, or sacral fractures can occur. Complications are particularly seen in long fusion constructs ending across the lumbosacral junction. To reduce these complications, various lumbosacral and sacropelvic fixation techniques have been developed and utilized.

The current supplement is intended to provide instructional videos that illustrate several current techniques for lumbosacral and sacropelvic fixation. The collection includes techniques for anterior L5-S1 interbody fusion, minimally invasive L5-S1 interbody fusions, lumbosacral pedicle screw placement, sacroiliac fusion, and sacro-alar-iliac screw placement. The authors of the videos in the supplement have provided detailed narration and video illustration to describe the nuances of the various open and minimally invasive techniques for lumbosacral and sacral-pelvic fixation. We are pleased to have such a collection of quality video illustration from experts in the field. It's been our privilege to serve as guest editors for this supplement and we believe that you will enjoy the contents of this supplement.
Outcome after conservative management or surgical treatment for new-onset epilepsy in cerebral cavernous malformation
Authors: Dammann Philipp , Wrede Karsten , Jabbarli Ramazan , Neuschulte Salome , Menzler Katja , Zhu Yuan , Özkan Neriman , Müller Oliver , Forsting Michael , Rosenow Felix , Sure Ulrich
Published: July 2016

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine seizure outcome, functional outcome, and the withdrawal of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) after conservative or surgical treatment of patients with new-onset cavernoma-related epilepsy (CRE).

METHODS

The authors conducted a retrospective comparative observational study of 79 consecutive patients, each with a single sporadic cerebral cavernous malformation (CCM) and new-onset CRE.

RESULTS

Forty-one patients underwent initial surgery (IS), and 38 patients underwent initial conservative (IC) treatment. Of those in the latter group, 19 underwent delayed surgical (DS) treatment. At the last follow-up, 88%, 32%, and 79% of patients in the respective groups had been seizure free for at least 2 years (International League Against Epilepsy [ILAE] Class 1; IS vs IC, p < 0.0001) and 78%, 8%, and 58%, respectively, had been off AEDs (IS vs IC, p < 0.0001). The cumulative probability of staying seizure free (ILAE Class 1) during a 5-year period was 73% (mean seizure-free follow-up 49.8 ± 2.7 months, 95% CI 44.4–55.1 months) for the IS group, 22% (mean 31.8 ± 3.6 months, 95% CI 24.8–38.8 months) for the IC group, and 68% (mean 48.6 ± 4.3 months, 95% CI 40.1–57.1 months) for the DS group (IS vs IC p < 0.001). Long-term operative morbidity was 3%, and long-term morbidity in the conservatively treated group was also 3%.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with CCM and new-onset CRE who underwent IS treatment showed better results in seizure control and the discontinuation of AEDs than the conservatively treated patients. Operative morbidity was comparable to the morbidity from symptomatic CCM hemorrhage in the conservative group. Half of the patients who started with conservative treatment underwent subsequent surgical treatment; however, a longer duration of epilepsy prior to surgery did not worsen postoperative seizure outcome.
Three-dimensional models: an emerging investigational revolution for craniovertebral junction surgery
Authors: Goel Atul , Jankharia Bhavin , Shah Abhidha , Sathe Prashant
Published: July 2016

Complex craniovertebral junctional anomalies can be daunting to treat surgically, and preoperative information regarding the osseous abnormalities, course of the vertebral arteries, size of the pedicles, and location of the transverse foramina is invaluable to surgeons operating on these challenging cases. The authors present their experience with the emerging technology of 3D model acquisition for surgery in 11 cases of complex craniovertebral junction region anomalies.

For each case, a 3D printed model was made from thin CT scans using a 64-slice CT scanner. The inclination of the joints, the presence of false articulations, the size of the pedicles, and the course of the vertebral arteries were studied preoperatively on the 3D models. The sizes of the plates and screws to be used and the angle of insertion of the screws were calculated based on the data from the models. The model was scaled to actual size and was kept beside the operating surgeon in its anatomical position during surgery. The potential uses of the models and their advantages over conventional radiological investigations are discussed.

The authors conclude that 3D models can be an invaluable aid during surgery for complex craniovertebral junction anomalies. The information available from a real life-size model supersedes the information available from 3D CT reconstructions and can also be superior to virtual simulation. The models are both cost effective and easy to build and the authors suggest that they may form the basis of investigations in the near future for craniovertebral junction surgery.
Ovarian function suppression is beneficial in some premenopausal women with early breast cancer
Authors: Barton Mary Kay
Published: July 2016

Key Points

Premenopausal women with HR‐positive early breast cancer benefit from exemestane plus OFS versus tamoxifen with or without OFS.

Results of SOFT and TEXT support the addition of OFS to exemestane or tamoxifen in premenopausal women whose risk of recurrence warrants (neo)adjuvant chemotherapy.

Women with low‐risk early breast cancer derive minimal benefit from the addition of OFS.
Virtual Machine Replication on Achieving Energy-Efficiency in a Cloud
Authors: Mondal Subrota , Muppala Jogesh , Machida Fumio
Published: July 2016

The rapid growth in cloud service demand has led to the establishment of large-scale virtualized data centers in which virtual machines (VMs) are used to handle user requests for service. A user’s request cannot be completed if the VM fails. Replication mechanisms can be used to mitigate the impact of failures. Further, data centers consume a large amount of energy resulting in high operating costs and contributing to significant greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. In this paper, we focus on Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) cloud where user job requests are processed by VMs and analyze the effectiveness of VM replications in terms of job completion time performance as well as energy consumption. Three different schemes: cold, warm, and hot replications are considered. The trade-offs between job completion time and energy consumption in different replication schemes are characterized through comprehensive analytical models which capture VM state transitions and associated power consumption patterns. The effectiveness of replication schemes are demonstrated through experimental results. To verify the validity of the proposed analytical models, we extend the widely used cloud simulator CloudSim and compare the simulation results with analytical solutions.
Suicide: Incidence or Prevalence? Comments on Hernández-Alvarado et al. Increase in Suicide Rates by Hanging in the Population of Tabasco, Mexico between 2003 and 2012. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2016, 13, 552
Authors: Fernández-Niño Julián
Published: July 2016

I recently reviewed the paper published in this journal by Hernández-Alvarado et al., titled “Increase in Suicide Rates by Hanging in the Population of Tabasco, Mexico between 2003 and 2012” [1], and I noticed that the epidemiological concept “prevalence” is not correctly used.[...]
Impacts of Credit Default Swaps on Volatility of the Exchange Rate in Turkey: The Case of Euro
Authors: Kar Muhsin , Bayat Tayfur , Kayhan Selim
Published: July 2016

In this study, we aim to investigate the impacts of credit default swaps (CDS) premium as a risk financial indicator on the fluctuations of value of the Turkish lira against the Euro. We try to answer the following questions: Is the CDS premium change among the drivers of EUR/TL exchange rate and what are the possible effects of CDS premium volatility on EUR/TL exchange rate stability in different conditions? In this regard, we developed a MS-VAR regime change model and asymmetric, frequency domain and rolling windows causality analysis methods. Results obtained from all tests imply that risk premium is partially a driver of the EUR/TL exchange rate between the years 2009 and 2015.
Light-Addressable Potentiometric Sensor as a Sensing Element in Plug-Based Microfluidic Devices
Authors: Miyamoto Ko-Ichiro , Sato Takuya , Abe Minami , Wagner Torsten , Schöning Michael , Yoshinobu Tatsuo
Published: July 2016

A plug-based microfluidic system based on the principle of the light-addressable potentiometric sensor (LAPS) is proposed. The LAPS is a semiconductor-based chemical sensor, which has a free addressability of the measurement point on the sensing surface. By combining a microfluidic device and LAPS, ion sensing can be performed anywhere inside the microfluidic channel. In this study, the sample solution to be measured was introduced into the channel in a form of a plug with a volume in the range of microliters. Taking advantage of the light-addressability, the position of the plug could be monitored and pneumatically controlled. With the developed system, the pH value of a plug with a volume down to 400 nL could be measured. As an example of plug-based operation, two plugs were merged in the channel, and the pH change was detected by differential measurement.
A Gallium Oxide-Graphene Oxide Hybrid Composite for Enhanced Photocatalytic Reaction
Authors: Kim Seungdu , Han Kook , Lee In , Park Won , Yoon Yeojoon , Yoo Chan , Yang Woo , Hwang Wan
Published: July 2016

Hybrid composites (HCs) made up of gallium oxide (GaO) and graphene oxide (GO) were investigated with the intent of enhancing a photocatalytic reaction under ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The material properties of both GaO and GO were preserved, even after the formation of the HCs. The incorporation of the GO into the GaO significantly enhanced the photocatalytic reaction, as indicated by the amount of methylene blue (MB) degradation. The improvements in the reaction were discussed in terms of increased surface area and the retarded recombination of generated charged carriers.
Connecting Consciousness to Physical Causality: Abhinavagupta’s Phenomenology of Subjectivity and Tononi’s Integrated Information Theory
Authors: Biernacki Loriliai
Published: July 2016

This article demonstrates remarkably similar methods for linking mind and body to address the “hard problem” in the work of 11th-century Indian philosopher Abhinavagupta with a currently prominent neuroscienctific theory, Tononi’s Integrated Information Theory 3.0. Both Abhinavagupta and Tononi and Christof Koch hinge their theories on the identity of phenomenal subjective experience with causality. Giulio Tononi’s Integrated Information Theory is remarkable precisely in its method for dealing with the mind-body problem; namely, Tononi’s mathematically oriented systems neurology proposes something we typically do not find in neuroscientific literature—that we start from a phenomenology of experience. Abhinavagupta’s sophisticated and, for his milieu, novel way of linking subjectivity and objectivity in the concepts of knowledge (jñāna) and action (kriyā) also offers a way of understanding how subjectivity can be linked to causality. This particular configuration is mostly absent in Western Cartesian models for understanding consciousness and in Indian philosophical speculations on consciousness. However, this, in any case, is precisely the move that Tononi makes when he proposes that information is both “causal and intrinsic.” Abhinavagupta’s similar linkage of subjectivity with causality can help us to think about Tononi’s neuroscientific mathematical model.
Selective bromochlorination of a homoallylic alcohol for the total synthesis of (−)-anverene
Authors: Seidl Frederick J , Burns Noah Z
Published: July 2016

The scope of a recently reported method for the catalytic enantioselective bromochlorination of allylic alcohols is expanded to include a specific homoallylic alcohol. Critical factors for optimization of this reaction are highlighted. The utility of the product bromochloride is demonstrated by the first total synthesis of an antibacterial polyhalogenated monoterpene, (−)-anverene.
COMPREHENSIVE RISK MANAGEMENT USING FUZZY FMEA AND MCDA TECHNIQUES IN HIGHWAY CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS
Authors: AHMADI Mohsen , BEHZADIAN Kourosh , ARDESHIR Abdollah , KAPELAN Zoran
Published: July 2016

This paper presents a comprehensive framework to manage the main risk events of highway construction pro­jects within three stages: (1) identification of potential risks; (2) assessment and prioritisation of identified risks based on fuzzy FMEA; (3) identification of appropriate response. The main criteria analysed for prioritising potential risk events are cost, time and quality which are quantified and combined using fuzzy AHP. A new expert system is suggested for identifying an appropriate risk response strategy for a risk event based on risk factor, control number and risk alloca­tion. The best response action for a risk event is then identified with respect to the same criteria using “scope expected deviation” (SED) index. The proposed methodology is demonstrated for management of risk events in a construction project of Bijar-Zanjan highway in Iran. For the risk event of “increase in tar price”, deviation from the target values of the criteria is analysed for business-as-usual state plus two risk response actions using SED index. The results show that the response action of “changing paving construction technology from asphalt pavement to RCC pavement” can success­fully cope with the risk event of “increase in tar price” and have the minimum deviation.
THE IMPACT OF INTELLECTUAL CAPITAL ON BUSINESS INTERNATIONALIZATION PROCESSES IN LITHUANIAN FIRMS / INTELEKTINIO KAPITALO ĮTAKA VERSLO INTERNACIONALIZACIJOS PROCESAMS LIETUVOS ĮMONĖSE
Authors: Kalvionytė Aistė , Korsakienė Renata
Published: July 2016

Intellectual capital is the main factor contributing to the growth of economy and increasing competitiveness in global market. The need for internationalization of small firms increases in globalization context. Intellectual capital and human capital have significant impact on internationalization of organizations. The paper aims to review the concept of intellectual capital and its assessment, to reveal the significance and importance for internationalization of Lithuanian firms. The investigation is based on analysis and synthesis of prevailing scientific literature, investigating intellectual capital and internationalization. Intelektinis kapitalas yra pagrindinis veiksnys, padedantis kurti įmonėje pridėtinę vertę, skatinantis ekonominį augimą ir didinantis konkurencingumą globalioje rinkoje. Globalizacijos kontekste auga mažų įmonių poreikis internacionali-zuoti savo veiklą. Organizacijų internacionalizacijai didelę įtaką turi intelektinis, o ypač žmogiškasis kapitalas. Šio straipsnio tikslas yra apibendrinti mokslinėje literatūroje aptinkamą intelektinio kapitalo sampratą ir jo vertinimą, išryškinti jo reikšmę bei svarbą Lietuvos įmonių internacionalizacijai. Atliktas tyrimas grindžiamas mokslinės literatūros analize ir sinteze, intelektinio kapitalo bei internacionalizacijos klausimais.
THE EVALUATION OF FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT INFLUENCE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF BALTIC COUNTRIES / TIESIOGINIŲ UŽSIENIO INVESTICIJŲ ĮTAKOS BALTIJOS ŠALIŲ EKONOMINEI RAIDAI VERTINIMAS
Authors: Lukoševičiūtė Greta , Martinkutė-Kaulienė Raimonda
Published: July 2016

In order to ensure economic growth it is necessary to pay attention to the investments. The bigger amount of investments and their profitability grants the bigger scale of country‘s production and its growth. In the paper foreign direct investments (FDI) in the Baltic Countries were analysed. The theoretical evaluation of foreign direct investment on economic development of country was submitted. It was theoretically analysed the factors that attract foreign direct investment. Based on statistical data FDI and GDP dynamics in the Baltic countries was analysed. FDI flows and GDP connection using correlation and regression analysis was evaluated. Results of analysis was used to evaluate foreign direct investment influence on economic development of Baltic Countries. Stengiantis užtikrinti ekonominį augimą būtina atkreipti dėmesį į investicijas. Kuo didesnės investicijų apimtys ir jų pelningumas, tuo didesni šalies gamybos mastai ir aukštesni jos didėjimo tempai. Straipsnyje nagrinėjamos tiesioginės užsienio investicijos (TUI) Baltijos šalyse 2008–2014 metais. Pateikiamas teorinis tiesioginių užsienio investicijų daromos įtakos vertinimas šalies ekonominei raidai. Teoriškai analizuojami veiksniai, skatinantys tiesiogines užsienio investicijas. Remiantis statistiniais duomenimis, ištirta TUI srautų bei BVP dinamika Baltijos šalyse per 2008–2014 metus. Taikant koreliacinės regresinės analizės metodus tiriamas TUI ir BVP ryšys. Pagal tyrimo rezultatus įvertinama tiesioginių užsienio investicijų daroma įtaka Baltijos šalių ekonominei raidai.
THE FINANCIAL INDICATORS’ AND LISTED COMPANY‘S STOCK PRICE LINK DETERMINING THE VALUE / ĮMONĖS FINANSINIS LIKVIDUMAS KAIP PRIEMONĖ ĮMONĖS VERTEI DIDINTI
Authors: Tamošiūnienė Rima , Paškevičienė Justina
Published: July 2016

The demand for value determination increased after rising of the Lithuanian economics. The joint-stock company value depends on the stock price and the company’s profit according to the “stock pricing for profit” method. The purpose of this scientific paper is the financial indicators’ and listed company’s stock price link determining the value. The analysis methods are: the research of scientific literature, data analysis, summarizing and graphic visualization. The link between financial indicators and the stock price is determined on the basis of correlation regression analysis. The analysis showed that listed on the stock exchange company’s stocks already have some value as they raise the capital. The research results revealed the stock price’s direct dependence on the fixed asset turnover and the debt-to-asset ratios.
Likvidumo rodikliai traktuojami kaip vieni iš svarbiausių įmonės finansinę būklę rodančių rodiklių. Likvidumas neatsiejamai veikia įmonės vertę. Svarbu nustatyti, kaip, kontroliuojant įmonės likvidumo rodiklius, teigiamai paveikti įmonės vertę ir identifikuoti esminius įmonės finansinio likvidumo veiksnius, kuriems reikėtų skirti daugiausiai dėmesio, siekiant maksimizuoti įmonės vertę. Straipsnyje pateikiamas išvestinis DuPont analizės modelis, pagal kurį vertinamas įmonės grynasis apyvartinis kapitalas ir pridėtinė ekonominė vertė (angl. Economic Value Added – EVA). Ši minėto modelio kintamųjų priklausomybės schema pagrindžia likvidumo poveikį galutinei įmonės vertei. Pateikiamas praktinis modelio veikimas bei išvados. Šis išvestinis DuPont analizės modelis, paremtas apyvartinio kapitalo ir EVA kintamaisiais – tai instrumentas, naudingas įmonės vadovams bei akcininkams, siekiant padidinti įmonės vertę valdant įmonės likvidumą, ieškant papildomų galimybių didinti įmonės likvidumą.