bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of the Graded Redefined Assessment of Strength, Sensibility and Prehension (GRASSP): reviewing measurement specific to the upper limb in tetraplegia
Authors: Kalsi-Ryan Sukhvinder , Curt Armin , Verrier Mary C. , Fehlings Michael G.
Published: May 2015

Object

Primary outcome measures for the upper limb in trials concerning human spinal cord injury (SCI) need to distinguish between functional and neurological changes and require satisfying psychometric properties for clinical application.

Methods

The Graded Redefined Assessment of Strength, Sensibility and Prehension (GRASSP) was developed by the International GRASSP Research and Design Team as a clinical outcome measure specific to the upper limbs for individuals with complete and incomplete tetraplegia (that is, paralysis or paresis). It can be administered across the continuum of recovery after acute cervical SCI. An international multicenter study (involving centers in North America and Europe) was conducted to apply the measure internationally and examine its applicability.

Results

The GRASSP is a multimodal test comprising 5 subtests for each upper limb: dorsal sensation, palmar sensation (tested with Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments), strength (tested with motor grading of 10 muscles), and prehension (distinguishes scores for qualitative and quantitative grasping). Thus, administration of the GRASSP results in 5 numerical scores that provide a comprehensive profile of upper-limb function. The established interrater and test-retest reliability for all subtests within the GRASSP range from 0.84 to 0.96 and from 0.86 to 0.98, respectively. The GRASSP is approximately 50% more sensitive (construct validity) than the International Standards of Neurological Classification of SCI (ISNCSCI) in defining sensory and motor integrity of the upper limb. The subtests show concurrence with the Spinal Cord Independence Measure (SCIM), SCIM self-care subscales, and Capabilities of Upper Extremity Questionnaire (CUE) (the strongest concurrence to impairment is with self-perception of function [CUE], 0.57–0.83, p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

The GRASSP was found to demonstrate reliability, construct validity, and concurrent validity for use as a standardized upper-limb impairment measure for individuals with complete or incomplete tetraplegia. Responsiveness (follow-up from onset to 1 year postinjury) is currently being tested in international studies (in North America and Europe). The GRASSP can be administered early after injury, thus making it a tool that can be administered in acute care (in the ICU), rehabilitation, and outpatient clinics.
Surgical correction of a spinal arteriovenous fistula with an unusual presentation
Authors: Cohen-Gadol Aaron
Published: May 2015

Spinal dural arteriovenous fistula (dAVF) is an acquired abnormal arterial-to-venous connection within the spinal dura with a wide range of clinical presentations and natural history. Spinal dAVF occurs when a radicular artery makes a direct anomalous shunt with a radicular vein within the dura of the nerve root sleeve. Cervical dAVF is a rare entity as the majority of spinal dAVFs present within the thoracolumbar segment with myelopathy. Only a small number of cervical lesions have been described, and only one presented with brainstem dysfunction.

Herein we present one patient with brainstem dysfunction secondary to a spinal dAVF. The fistula was located within the C-3 nerve root sleeve. The details of microsurgical techniques to disconnect the fistula will be discussed. Although the option of endovascular disconnection of the fistula is reasonable, the author elected to proceed with microsurgical disconnection after discussion regarding the risks of such an endovascular route for the cervical spinal cord.

The video can be found here: http://youtu.be/t8rUnZ8qVfY.
Mini-open removal of intradural spinal tumor
Authors: Cheng Jason S. , Upadhyaya Cheerag , Wu Jau-Ching , Tu Tsung-Hsi , Mummaneni Praveen V.
Published: May 2015

Minimally invasive surgical (MIS) approaches have gained popularity in many surgical fields. Potential advantages to a minimally invasive, spinal intradural approach include decreased operative blood loss, shorter hospitalization, and less post-operative pain. Potential disadvantages include longer operative times, decreased exposure, and difficulty closing the dura. Prior case series from our group and others have demonstrated successful tumor resections using MIS techniques without increased complications. In this 3D video, we demonstrate the key steps in our mini-open, transpinous approach for the resection of an intradural, extramedullary lumbar schwannoma. This operation is performed through a midline incision confined to one or two levels. The spinous process is removed. The paraspinal muscles are spread using a series of sequentially larger tubular dilators, and the first dilator is placed in the space previously occupied by the target level spinous process. The expandable tube retractor is then placed over the largest dilator and docked into place over the target laminae. The expandable tubular retractor is 6 centimeters in depth and 2.5 centimeters in width before expansion and is adjustable to 9 centimeters in depth and 4–5 centimeters in diameter which allows removal of intradural lesions confined to one or two spinal segments.

The video can be found here: http://youtu.be/l_C4VruKYng.
A far-lateral approach for removal of a C1–2 extradural neurofibroma
Authors: Robertson Jon H. , Sorenson Jeffrey M.
Published: May 2015

A young man with type 1 neurofibromatosis presented with progressive myelopathy. Imaging revealed an anterolateral mass within the spinal canal at C1–2, with severe compression of the spinal cord. A far-lateral approach was used to remove the mass, which proved to be an extradural neurofibroma. This narrated stereoscopic video details the important steps of the operation.

The video can be found here: http://youtu.be/td4MjLtiMbk.
Modified one-piece extended transbasal approach for resection of giant anterior skull base sinonasal teratocarcinosarcoma
Authors: Liu James K. , Eloy Jean Anderson
Published: May 2015

The transbasal approach is considered the workhorse for removing a variety of benign and malignant tumors of the anterior skull base. In some instances, removal of the supraorbital bar in addition to a standard bifrontal craniotomy (extended transbasal approach) allows for additional basal exposure, thereby minimizing brain retraction. In this operative video atlas report, the authors describe and demonstrate a modified one-piece extended transbasal craniotomy that incorporates the anterior wall of the frontal sinus. The inferior margin of the osteotomy is made as low as possible through the anterior wall of the frontal sinus, starting at the nasofrontal suture and extending laterally over both orbital rims by following the contour of the anterior skull base in the coronal orientation. This modification provides an excellent line of sight to the anterior skull base without any obstruction from bone overhang, which obviates the need for any supraorbital rim removal. Removal of a giant anterior skull base sinonasal teratocarcinosarcoma via the modified one-piece extended transbasal approach is demonstrated in this operative video atlas. The authors describe and illustrate the operative nuances and surgical pearls to safely and efficiently perform the approach, tumor resection, and multilayered reconstruction of the cranial base defect.

The video can be found here: http://youtu.be/x1lTtfqKIV0.
Finding Ways to Improve Australia’s Food Security Situation
Authors: Farmar-Bowers Quentin
Published: May 2015

Although Australia exports more than half of its agricultural production, there are food security problems as the current food supply systems in Australia fail to deliver healthy diets to all Australians and fail to protect the natural resources on which they depend. In addition, the food systems create “collateral damage” to the natural environment including biodiversity loss. In coming decades, Australia’s food supply systems will be increasingly challenged by resource price inflation and falling yields due to climate change. Government and business are aiming to increase production and agricultural exports. This will increase pressure on agricultural resources and exacerbate “collateral” damage to the environment. The Australian public has an ongoing interest in issues associated with the food systems including the environment, education, health and sustainability. A health-giving diet is essential for a full life and over a life-time people need food security. Currently economy development and social planning is undertaken through the pragmatic application of a set of ideas, such as relying on markets and deregulation, collectively referred to as neoliberalism. This paper contends that the neoliberal approach is not solving the current and developing problems in food security and agriculture more generally and suggests that more emphasis should be given to alternatives approaches. Seven alternatives approaches are suggested that could be used to identify gaps and guide the creation of overarching goals in economic development and social planning to improve food security and secure the other material goods and social arrangements that all Australians require to live full lives. However, changing large systems such as those involved in food supply is difficult because vested interests in the existing arrangements make the current systems resilient to change. There are a range of leverage points that have differing abilities to change systems. The paper points out that goals and information flows are good leverage points and suggests establishing overarching goals for the systems relevant to food and restructuring the flow of information about these systems will help reform the food supply systems in Australia.
Initial Events in Bacterial Transcription Initiation
Authors: Ruff Emily , Record M. , Artsimovitch Irina
Published: May 2015

Transcription initiation is a highly regulated step of gene expression. Here, we discuss the series of large conformational changes set in motion by initial specific binding of bacterial RNA polymerase (RNAP) to promoter DNA and their relevance for regulation. Bending and wrapping of the upstream duplex facilitates bending of the downstream duplex into the active site cleft, nucleating opening of 13 bp in the cleft. The rate-determining opening step, driven by binding free energy, forms an unstable open complex, probably with the template strand in the active site. At some promoters, this initial open complex is greatly stabilized by rearrangements of the discriminator region between the −10 element and +1 base of the nontemplate strand and of mobile in-cleft and downstream elements of RNAP. The rate of open complex formation is regulated by effects on the rapidly-reversible steps preceding DNA opening, while open complex lifetime is regulated by effects on the stabilization of the initial open complex. Intrinsic DNA opening-closing appears less regulated. This noncovalent mechanism and its regulation exhibit many analogies to mechanisms of enzyme catalysis.
Effect of Pesticide Exposure on Immunological, Hematological and Biochemical Parameters in Thai Orchid Farmers— A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Aroonvilairat Soraya , Kespichayawattana Wannapa , Sornprachum Thiwaree , Chaisuriya Papada , Siwadune Taweeratana , Ratanabanangkoon Kavi
Published: May 2015

Various studies have found that many Thai orchid farmers used excessive amounts of pesticides without proper protective gear, but no toxicological study has been made. This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the immunological, hematological and biochemical statuses of these farmers. Sixty four orchid farmers and 60 controls were studied. Plasma cholinesterase activity, the percentage and absolute number of B lymphocytes (CD19+) were significantly lower in the farmers group (3966.32 ± 1165.48 U/L, 11.61 ± 4.09% and 312.26 ± 164.83 cells/mm3, respectively) as compared to those of controls (5048.85 ± 1139.40 U/L, 14.32 ± 4.23%, 420.34 ± 195.18 cells/mm3, respectively). There was a statistically significant higher level of serum IgE among the orchid farmers (0.031 ± 0.011 mg/dL vs. 0.018 ± 0.007 mg/dL) but not IgG, IgA and IgM, levels. Serum lysozyme level, lymphocyte proliferative responses to mitogens, hematological parameters and kidney function test, were not significantly different between the two groups. The liver function profiles showed significantly lower levels of albumin and serum protein in the farmer group. Thus frequent pesticide exposure resulted in subtle changes of some biological parameters. These changes, though may not be clinically significant, strongly indicated that caution in handing pesticides by these farmers is warranted.
Study of the Influence of the Orientation of a 50-Hz Magnetic Field on Fetal Exposure Using Polynomial Chaos Decomposition
Authors: Liorni Ilaria , Parazzini Marta , Fiocchi Serena , Ravazzani Paolo
Published: May 2015

Human exposure modelling is a complex topic, because in a realistic exposure scenario, several parameters (e.g., the source, the orientation of incident fields, the morphology of subjects) vary and influence the dose. Deterministic dosimetry, so far used to analyze human exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF), is highly time consuming if the previously-mentioned variations are considered. Stochastic dosimetry is an alternative method to build analytical approximations of exposure at a lower computational cost. In this study, it was used to assess the influence of magnetic flux density (B) orientation on fetal exposure at 50 Hz by polynomial chaos (PC). A PC expansion of induced electric field (E) in each fetal tissue at different gestational ages (GA) was built as a function of B orientation. Maximum E in each fetal tissue and at each GA was estimated for different exposure configurations and compared with the limits of the International Commission of Non-Ionising Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) Guidelines 2010. PC theory resulted in an efficient tool to build accurate approximations of E in each fetal tissue. B orientation strongly influenced E, with a variability across tissues from 10% to 43% with respect to the mean value. However, varying B orientation, maximum E in each fetal tissue was below the limits of ICNIRP 2010 at all GAs.
Single-Crystal to Single-Crystal Reversible Transformations Induced by Thermal Dehydration in Keggin-Type Polyoxometalates Decorated with Copper(II)-Picolinate Complexes: The Structure Directing Role of Guanidinium
Authors: Pache Aroa , Reinoso Santiago , Felices Leire , Iturrospe Amaia , Lezama Luis , Gutiérrez-Zorrilla Juan
Published: May 2015

Three new hybrid inorganic-metalorganic compounds containing Keggin-type polyoxometalates, neutral copper(II)-picolinate complexes and guanidinium cations have been synthesized in bench conditions and characterized by elemental analysis, infrared spectroscopy and single-crystal X-ray diffraction: the isostructural [C(NH2)3]4[{XW12O40}{Cu2(pic)4}]·[Cu2(pic)4(H2O)]2·6H2O [X = Si (1), Ge (3)] and [C(NH2)3]8[{SiW12O40}2{Cu(pic)2}3{Cu2(pic)4(H2O)}2]·8H2O (2). The three compounds show a pronounced two-dimensional character owing to the structure-directing role of guanidinium. In 1 and 3, layers of [{XW12O40}{Cu2(pic)4}]n4n− hybrid POM chains and layers of [Cu2(pic)4(H2O)] complexes and [C(NH2)3]+ cations pack alternately along the z axis. The hydrogen-bonding network established by guanidinium leads to a trihexagonal tiling arrangement of all copper(II)-picolinate species. In contrast, layers of [C(NH2)3]+-linked [{SiW12O40}2{Cu(pic)2}3]n8n− double chains where each Keggin cluster displays a {Cu2(pic)4(H2O)} moiety pointing at the intralamellar space are observed in 2. The thermal stability of 1–3 has been studied by thermogravimetric analyses and variable temperature powder X-ray diffraction. Compounds 1 and 3 undergo single-crystal to single-crystal transformations promoted by reversible dehydration processes and the structures of the corresponding anhydrous phases 1a and 3a have been established. Despite the fact that the [Cu2(pic)4(H2O)] dimeric complexes split into [Cu(pic)2] monomers upon dehydration, the packing remains almost unaltered thanks to the preservation of the hydrogen-bonding network established by guanidinium and its associated Kagome-type lattice. Splitting of the dimeric complexes has been correlated with the electron paramagnetic resonance spectra.
Applications of Shape Memory Alloys for Neurology and Neuromuscular Rehabilitation
Authors: Pittaccio Simone , Garavaglia Lorenzo , Ceriotti Carlo , Passaretti Francesca
Published: May 2015

Shape memory alloys (SMAs) are a very promising class of metallic materials that display interesting nonlinear properties, such as pseudoelasticity (PE), shape memory effect (SME) and damping capacity, due to high mechanical hysteresis and internal friction. Our group has applied SMA in the field of neuromuscular rehabilitation, designing some new devices based on the mentioned SMA properties: in particular, a new type of orthosis for spastic limb repositioning, which allows residual voluntary movement of the impaired limb and has no predetermined final target position, but follows and supports muscular elongation in a dynamic and compliant way. Considering patients in the sub-acute phase after a neurological lesion, and possibly bedridden, the paper presents a mobiliser for the ankle joint, which is designed exploiting the SME to provide passive exercise to the paretic lower limb. Two different SMA-based applications in the field of neuroscience are then presented, a guide and a limb mobiliser specially designed to be compatible with diagnostic instrumentations that impose rigid constraints in terms of electromagnetic compatibility and noise distortion. Finally, the paper discusses possible uses of these materials in the treatment of movement disorders, such as dystonia or hyperkinesia, where their dynamic characteristics can be advantageous.
Bone Replacement Materials and Techniques Used for Achieving Vertical Alveolar Bone Augmentation
Authors: Sheikh Zeeshan , Sima Corneliu , Glogauer Michael
Published: May 2015

Alveolar bone augmentation in vertical dimension remains the holy grail of periodontal tissue engineering. Successful dental implant placement for restoration of edentulous sites depends on the quality and quantity of alveolar bone available in all spatial dimensions. There are several surgical techniques used alone or in combination with natural or synthetic graft materials to achieve vertical alveolar bone augmentation. While continuously improving surgical techniques combined with the use of auto- or allografts provide the most predictable clinical outcomes, their success often depends on the status of recipient tissues. The morbidity associated with donor sites for auto-grafts makes these techniques less appealing to both patients and clinicians. New developments in material sciences offer a range of synthetic replacements for natural grafts to address the shortcoming of a second surgical site and relatively high resorption rates. This narrative review focuses on existing techniques, natural tissues and synthetic biomaterials commonly used to achieve vertical bone height gain in order to successfully restore edentulous ridges with implant-supported prostheses.
Activation of the Tumor Suppressor PP2A Emerges as a Potential Therapeutic Strategy for Treating Prostate Cancer
Authors: Cristóbal Ion , González-Alonso Paula , Daoud Lina , Solano Esther , Torrejón Blanca , Manso Rebeca , Madoz-Gúrpide Juan , Rojo Federico , García-Foncillas Jesús
Published: May 2015

Protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) is a tumor suppressor complex that has recently been reported as a novel and highly relevant molecular target in prostate cancer (PCa). However, its potential therapeutic value remains to be fully clarified. We treated PC-3 and LNCaP cell lines with the PP2A activators forskolin and FTY720 alone or combined with the PP2A inhibitor okadaic acid. We examined PP2A activity, cell growth, prostasphere formation, levels of PP2A phosphorylation, CIP2A and SET expression, and AKT and ERK activation. Interestingly, both forskolin and FTY720 dephosphorylated and activated PP2A, impairing proliferation and prostasphere formation and inducing changes in AKT and ERK phosphorylation. Moreover, FTY720 led to reduced CIP2A levels. Treatment with okadaic acid impaired PP2A activation thus demonstrating the antitumoral PP2A-dependent mechanism of action of both forskolin and FTY720. Levels of PP2A phosphorylation together with SET and CIP2A protein expression were studied in 24 PCa patients and both were associated with high Gleason scores and presence of metastatic disease. Altogether, our results suggest that PP2A inhibition could be involved in PCa progression, and the use of PP2A-activating drugs might represent a novel alternative therapeutic strategy for treating PCa patients.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of N-Alkoxyphenyl-3-hydroxynaphthalene-2-carboxanilides
Authors: Gonec Tomas , Zadrazilova Iveta , Nevin Eoghan , Kauerova Tereza , Pesko Matus , Kos Jiri , Oravec Michal , Kollar Peter , Coffey Aidan , O'Mahony Jim , Cizek Alois , Kralova Katarina , Jampilek Josef
Published: May 2015

A series of fifteen new N-alkoxyphenylanilides of 3-hydroxynaphthalene-2-carboxylic acid was prepared and characterized. Primary in vitro screening of the synthesized compounds was performed against Staphylococcus aureus, three methicillin-resistant S. aureus strains, Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Ra and M. avium subsp. paratuberculosis. Some of the tested compounds showed antibacterial and antimycobacterial activity against the tested strains comparable with or higher than that of the standards ampicillin or rifampicin. 3-Hydroxy-N-(2-propoxyphenyl)naphthalene-2-carboxamide and N-[2-(but-2-yloxy)-phenyl]-3-hydroxynaphthalene-2-carboxamide had MIC = 12 µM against all methicillin-resistant S. aureus strains; thus their activity is 4-fold higher than that of ampicillin. The second mentioned compound as well as 3-hydroxy-N-[3-(prop-2-yloxy)phenyl]-naphthalene-2-carboxamide had MICs = 23 µM and 24 µM against M. tuberculosis respectively. N-[2-(But-2-yloxy)phenyl]-3-hydroxynaphthalene-2-carboxamide demonstrated higher activity against M. avium subsp. paratuberculosis than rifampicin. Screening of the cytotoxicity of the most effective antimycobacterial compounds was performed using THP-1 cells, and no significant lethal effect was observed for the most potent compounds. The compounds were additionally tested for their activity related to inhibition of photosynthetic electron transport (PET) in spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) chloroplasts. N-(3-Ethoxyphenyl)-3-hydroxynaphthalene-2-carboxamide (IC50 = 4.5 µM) was the most active PET inhibitor. The structure-activity relationships are discussed.
The Role of Lectin-Carbohydrate Interactions in the Regulation of ER-Associated Protein Degradation
Authors: Słomińska-Wojewódzka Monika , Sandvig Kirsten
Published: May 2015

Proteins entering the secretory pathway are translocated across the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane in an unfolded form. In the ER they are restricted to a quality control system that ensures correct folding or eventual degradation of improperly folded polypeptides. Mannose trimming of N-glycans on newly synthesized proteins plays an important role in the recognition and sorting of terminally misfolded glycoproteins for ER-associated protein degradation (ERAD). In this process misfolded proteins are retrotranslocated into the cytosol, polyubiquitinated, and eventually degraded by the proteasome. The mechanism by which misfolded glycoproteins are recognized and recruited to the degradation machinery has been extensively studied during last decade. In this review, we focus on ER degradation-enhancing α-mannosidase-like protein (EDEM) family proteins that seem to play a key role in the discrimination between proteins undergoing a folding process and terminally misfolded proteins directed for degradation. We describe interactions of EDEM proteins with other components of the ERAD machinery, as well as with various protein substrates. Carbohydrate-dependent interactions together with N-glycan-independent interactions seem to regulate the complex process of protein recognition and direction for proteosomal degradation.
Pyrrole-Pyridine and Pyrrole-Naphthyridine Hosts for Anion Recognition
Authors: García M. , Farrán M. , María Dolores , Claramunt Rosa , Torralba M. , Torres M. , Jaime Carlos , Elguero José
Published: May 2015

The association constants of the complexes formed by two hosts containing pyrrole, amide and azine (pyridine and 1,8-naphthyridine) groups and six guests, all monoanions (Cl−, CH3CO2−, NO3−, H2PO4−, BF4−, PF6−), have been determined using NMR titrations. The X-ray crystal structure of the host N2,N5-bis(6-methylpyridin-2-yl)-3,4-diphenyl-1H-pyrrole- 2,5-dicarboxamide (1) has been solved (P21/c monoclinic space group). B3LYP/6-31G(d,p) and calculations were carried out in an attempt to rationalize the trends observed in the experimental association constants.
Glycemic Responses, Appetite Ratings and Gastrointestinal Hormone Responses of Most Common Breads Consumed in Spain. A Randomized Control Trial in Healthy Humans
Authors: Gonzalez-Anton Carolina , Rico Maria , Sanchez-Rodriguez Estefania , Ruiz-Lopez Maria , Gil Angel , Mesa Maria
Published: May 2015

The present study was carried out to determine the glycemic index (GI), glycemic load (GL), insulinemic index (InI), appetite ratings and postprandial plasma concentrations of gastrointestinal hormones related to the control of food intake after the ingestion of the five most common breads consumed in Spain with different compositions and manufacturing processes. Twenty-two healthy adults participated in a randomized crossover study. The breads tested were Ordinary, Precooked-Frozen, Candeal-flour, Alfacar whites and Wholemeal. All breads portions were calculated to supply 50 g of available carbohydrates. In addition, 50 g of glucose was used as a reference. A linear mixed-effects model was used to compare data calculated for all breads with glucose load. The GI value varied from 61 for the Wholemeal, to Alfacar 68, Ordinary 76, and 78 and 86 for the Precooked-Frozen and Candeal-flour breads, respectively. Wholemeal and Alfacar had lower GI than glucose. All tested breads had a lower GL (ranged 9 to 18) compared with glucose. Wholemeal GL was similar to Alfacar, but lower than the other white breads. InI were significantly lower for all breads (ranged 68 to 73) compared with glucose, and similar among them. The intake of the Wholemeal bread led to a higher release of gastric inhibitory polypeptide compared with the Ordinary and Precooked breads and to a higher release of pancreatic polypeptide compared with the Precooked-Frozen bread. All breads affected appetite ratings similarly. In conclusion, based on GL, the Wholemeal bread would be expected to exert a favorable glycemic response.
Plasmonic Terahertz Amplification in Graphene-Based Asymmetric Hyperbolic Metamaterial
Authors: Nefedov Igor , Melnikov Leonid
Published: May 2015

We propose and theoretically explore terahertz amplification, based on stimulated generation of plasmons in graphene asymmetric hyperbolic metamaterials (AHMM), strongly coupled to terahertz radiation. In contrast to the terahertz amplification in resonant nanocavities, AHMM provides a wide-band THz amplification without any reflection in optically thin graphene multilayers.
Characterization of Wheat Varieties Using Terahertz Time-Domain Spectroscopy
Authors: Ge Hongyi , Jiang Yuying , Lian Feiyu , Zhang Yuan , Xia Shanhong
Published: May 2015

Terahertz (THz) spectroscopy and multivariate data analysis were explored to discriminate eight wheat varieties. The absorption spectra were measured using THz time-domain spectroscopy from 0.2 to 2.0 THz. Using partial least squares (PLS), a regression model for discriminating wheat varieties was developed. The coefficient of correlation in cross validation (R) and root-mean-square error of cross validation (RMSECV) were 0.985 and 1.162, respectively. In addition, interval PLS was applied to optimize the models by selecting the most appropriate regions in the spectra, improving the prediction accuracy (R = 0.992 and RMSECV = 0.967). Results demonstrate that THz spectroscopy combined with multivariate analysis can provide rapid, nondestructive discrimination of wheat varieties.
Preventive Indicators for Creating Brownfields
Authors: Burinskienė Marija , Lazauskaitė Dovilė , Bielinskas Vytautas
Published: May 2015

Although the problem of brownfields in urban territories is successfully limited, it is a negative phenomenon of a sustainable city. Moreover, the number of recently created brownfield territories has become higher than that of the regenerated ones. Such territories reduce the quality of the social and economic setting of a city as well as visually and physically affect the life quality of city residents. Unfortunately, methods for the revitalization of brownfield land have been applied to deal with the consequences of the problem rather than to limit the problem itself. The authors of the article have investigated the aspects to be avoided to not create brownfields. The indicators that enable predicting the probability of a territory becoming a brownfield have been analyzed in this paper. Countries develop and exist under different social and economic conditions. Therefore, there is no uniform and universally accepted system of indicators for brownfield prevention that can be applied in any country or city. The authors have attempted to implement a recently developed idea of indicators for prevention under Lithuanian conditions and have selected those facilitating the identification of brownfields with an aim of identifying the most significant ones warning about the potential harm from the creation of brownfields in Lithuania. The selected indicators have been grouped, taking into account social, economic, natural, building and infrastructure settings of the city and ranked by a group of experts in urban planning. The established hierarchy of indicators in the groups of urban setting has allowed the authors to select the most significant preventive indicators for brownfields. The created system of indicators could be applied in practice as a basis for monitoring pertinent data and tracking their change.
Evaluating the Sustainability in Complex Agri-Food Systems: The SAEMETH Framework
Authors: Peano Cristiana , Tecco Nadia , Dansero Egidio , Girgenti Vincenzo , Sottile Francesco
Published: May 2015

During the last few years, the definition of sustainability and the translation of its general principles into practical and operative tasks have come into the foreground of scientific research and political agendas throughout the world. The understanding and the evaluation of the environmental, social and economic performances of complex agricultural food systems is probably the real challenge, and the design of more sustainable alternatives has been recognized as necessary for a correct territorial management. This study’s primary goal is the proposition of an interpretive structure “Sustainable Agri-Food Evaluation Methodology” (SAEMETH), able to guide the evaluation of the sustainability of the various organizational forms of the small-scale agri-food supply chain. As a case study, the methodology was applied to 10 small-scale agri-food systems. The application of SAEMETH, as a monitoring tool based on qualitative indicators that are user-friendly and strongly communicative, demonstrates that it is possible to carry out sustainability evaluations of the small-scale agri-food systems through a long-term approach that is participatory, interdisciplinary and multi-institutional and that integrates a solid theoretical base with an operative framework tested in the field. SAEMETH can, in this way, generate a cyclical process that increases the probability of success in the design of sustainable alternatives and the implementation of projects and initiatives at the local/regional scale.
Flexible Polyhedral Surfaces with Two Flat Poses
Authors: Stachel Hellmuth
Published: May 2015

We present three types of polyhedral surfaces, which are continuously flexible and have not only an initial pose, where all faces are coplanar, but pass during their self-motion through another pose with coplanar faces (“flat pose”). These surfaces are examples of so-called rigid origami, since we only admit exact flexions, i.e., each face remains rigid during the motion; only the dihedral angles vary. We analyze the geometry behind Miura-ori and address Kokotsakis’ example of a flexible tessellation with the particular case of a cyclic quadrangle. Finally, we recall Bricard’s octahedra of Type 3 and their relation to strophoids.
Estimating Natural Recharge by Means of Chloride Mass Balance in a Volcanic Aquifer: Northeastern Gran Canaria (Canary Islands, Spain)
Authors: Naranjo Gema , Cruz-Fuentes Tatiana , Cabrera María , Custodio Emilio
Published: May 2015

The chloride mass balance method was used to estimate the average diffuse groundwater recharge on northeastern Gran Canaria (Canary Islands), where the largest recharge to the volcanic island aquifer occurs. Rainwater was sampled monthly in ten rainwater collectors to determine the bulk deposition rate of chloride for the 2008–2014 period. Average chloride deposition decreases inwardly from more than 10 g·m−2·year−1 to about 4 g·m−2·year−1. The application of the chloride mass balance method resulted in an estimated average recharge of about 28 hm3/year or 92 mm/year (24% of precipitation) in the study area after subtracting chloride loss with surface runoff. The average storm runoff was estimated to be 12 hm3/year (9% of precipitation) for the 1980–2014 period. Runoff was sampled during scarce rainy periods, which produce surface water flow. Average recharge varies from less than a few mm/year near the coast up to 270 mm/year in the highlands (about 33% of average rainfall), with a close-to-linear increase inwardly of about 18 mm·year−1·km−1. Recharge rate uncertainty corresponds to an estimated CV of 0.3–0.4 because of the short data series available.
Developing a Learner-Directed, Learner-Paced Activity
Authors: Dickerson Pamela S. , Cain Jessica A.
Published: May 2015

The American Nurses Credentialing Center Primary Accreditation Program manual has for many years included the concept of learner-directed, learner-paced activities. However, due to many logistical challenges, this type of activity has not been implemented. In 2014, one organization successfully piloted the process. The methodology for developing this type of activity is explained in this article.

J Contin Educ Nurs.
2015;46(5):198–199.
Psychopathy and Sociopathy: The History of a Concept
Authors: Dinwiddie Stephen H.
Published: May 2015

It has long been recognized that some individuals behave in a way that seems to indicate the absence of any meaningful conscience. Characterized by repeatedly self-defeating and frequently criminal behavior, this syndrome has for centuries interested (and frustrated) clinicians who have struggled not only with its treatment but even its nosological status. In this article, some of the main currents of thought that have over time shaped what we currently refer to as sociopathy, Antisocial Personality Disorder, and psychopathy will be explored.

[
Psychiatr Ann
. 2015;45(4):169–174.]
The Neurobiology of Psychopathy
Authors: Stratton John , Kiehl Kent A. , Hanlon Robert E.
Published: May 2015

This review outlines the neurocognitive and neurobiological models of psychopathy. Neurocognitive models propose that deficits in cognition (specifically attention) underlie the deficient processing of emotional information among people with psychopathy. Neurobiological models propose that abnormalities in brain structures, functions, and circuitry give rise to the emotional and behavioral disturbances, including violent criminal behavior, that characterize the disorder. The relevant neuropsychological and neuroimaging studies of individuals with psychopathy are reviewed. Findings implicate structural and functional abnormalities in prefrontal, limbic, and paralimbic structures, including the orbital frontal cortex, ventromedial prefrontal cortex, anterior superior temporal gyrus, insula, anterior and posterior cingulate, amygdala, and parahippocampal gyrus. Proposed therapeutic and neurobiological treatment interventions are discussed.[Psychiatr Ann. 2015;45(4):186–194.]
Enuresis: Evaluation and Treatment
Authors: Traisman Edward S.
Published: May 2015

Enuresis is a common pediatric problem that creates a lot of stress for both the child and his/her family. Unfortunately, many of these patients do not seek medical attention for evaluation and treatment. It is important in the care of the child with enuresis to understand the definitions of the disorder, routinely ask about bowel and bladder habits, clarify the nature of the wetting (daytime, nighttime, or both) in the child, and perform a thorough history and physical examination. Laboratory studies are often minimal. Treatment (behavioral or medicinal) is dependent on the type of enuresis present, and patient compliance. Successful management of enuresis has benefits to both the child and family.

[
Pediatr Ann
. 2015;44(4):133–137.]
Identifying and Addressing Vaccine Hesitancy
Authors: Kestenbaum Lori A. , Feemster Kristen A.
Published: May 2015

In the 20th century, the introduction of multiple vaccines significantly reduced childhood morbidity, mortality, and disease outbreaks. Despite, and perhaps because of, their public health impact, an increasing number of parents and patients are choosing to delay or refuse vaccines. These individuals are described as “vaccine hesitant.” This phenomenon has developed due to the confluence of multiple social, cultural, political, and personal factors. As immunization programs continue to expand, understanding and addressing vaccine hesitancy will be crucial to their successful implementation. This review explores the history of vaccine hesitancy, its causes, and suggested approaches for reducing hesitancy and strengthening vaccine acceptance.

[
Pediatr Ann
. 2015;44(4):e71–e75.]
Adolescent Immunization: 2015 and Beyond
Authors: Suryadevara Manika , Paton Lance , Domachowske Joseph B.
Published: May 2015

In the last decade, the approach to adolescent immunizations has changed substantially. At ages 11 or 12 years, routine administration of four vaccines—a tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (Tdap) booster, the first of two doses of quadrivalent conjugate meningococcal vaccine (MCV4), a three-dose series of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, and an annual influenza vaccine—are now recommended. Vaccine uptake is easily tracked in the office setting using electronic medical records, whereas national data for teens have been tracked through the National Immunization Survey-Teen (NIS-teen) since 2005. In 2013, NIS-teen demonstrated that Tdap and MCV4 uptake are robust, whereas HPV vaccine coverage lags behind substantially. Efforts to improve immunization coverage rates among adolescents should continue, especially as new vaccines are becoming available for use in this age group. Several changes in the current approach to teen vaccination are expected to emerge in 2015.

[
Pediatr Ann
. 2015;44(4):e82–e88.]
Assessment and Treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Part 2
Authors: French William P.
Published: May 2015

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most common neurobehavioral disorder of childhood. In part 1 of this article, information regarding primary care assessment of ADHD was presented. Part 2 focuses on best practice guidelines for treatment once the diagnosis has been established. For most children, successful treatment of ADHD requires a multicomponent approach comprised of patient and family psychoeducation, use of medications approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (eg, stimulants) and/or behavioral interventions, and management of any psychiatric comorbid conditions. Furthermore, as ADHD is a chronic illness, primary care physicians will need to frequently reassess their patients and make treatment adjustments as needed.

[
Pediatr Ann
. 2015;44(4):160–168.]
Proximity of Arteries to the Anterior Ulna With Changing Flexion
Authors: Enad Jerome G. , Douglas Thomas J. , Ruland Robert T.
Published: May 2015

During surgery for elbow fracture, wires and screws crossing the elbow from posterior to anterior place the brachial and ulnar arteries at risk for inadvertent penetration. The authors’ goal was to define the sagittal proximity of the brachial and ulnar arteries to the proximal ulna throughout an arc of elbow motion using dynamic fluoroscopy. The brachial artery was injected with barium in 10 fresh-frozen cadaveric elbows. Sagittal fluoroscopic images were obtained at elbow flexion angles of 0°, 30°, 60°, 90°, and 120°. Two measurements were obtained at each flexion angle: (1) the distance between the coronoid tip and the brachial artery and (2) the distance between the coronoid base and the ulnar artery. One-way analysis of variance was used to compare mean distances for each flexion angle within each measurement group. A coronal image identified the mediolateral course of the brachial artery. The distance from the coronoid tip to the brachial artery significantly increased with increasing flexion from 0° to 60° (
P
<.001). The distance from the ulnar artery to the coronoid base significantly increased with increasing flexion from 0° to 120° (
P
<.002). The brachial artery traversed lateral to the coronoid in 9 of 10 specimens. The brachial and ulnar arteries are located further from the coronoid with increasing elbow flexion to at least 60°, and the brachial artery is typically located lateral to the coronoid in the coronal plane. These measurements can be used as surgical guides to reduce the risk of arterial injury during olecranon fracture surgery. [
Orthopedics.
2015; 38(4):e253–e256.]
Intractable Bone Marrow Edema Syndrome of the Hip
Authors: Gao Fuqiang , Sun Wei , Li Zirong , Guo Wanshou , Kush Nepali , Ozaki Koji
Published: May 2015

There is a need for an effective and noninvasive treatment for intractable bone marrow edema syndrome of the hip. Forty-six patients with intractable bone marrow edema syndrome of the hip were retrospectively studied to compare the short-term clinical effects of treatment with high-energy extracorporeal shock wave therapy vs femoral head core decompression. The postoperative visual analog scale score decreased significantly more in the extracorporeal shock wave therapy group compared with the femoral head core decompression group (
P
<.05). For unilateral lesions, postoperative Harris Hip Scores for all hips in the extracorporeal shock wave therapy group were more significantly improved than Harris Hip Scores for all hips in the femoral head core decompression group (
P
<.05). Patients who underwent extracorporeal shock wave therapy also resumed daily activities significantly earlier. Average overall operative time was similar in both groups. Symptoms disappeared significantly sooner in the extracorporeal shock wave therapy group in patients with both unilateral (
P
<.01) and bilateral lesions (
P
<.05). Hospital costs were significantly lower with extracorporeal shock wave therapy compared with femoral head core decompression. The intraoperative fluoroscopy radiation dose was lower in extracorporeal shock wave therapy than in femoral head core decompression for both unilateral (
P
<.05) and bilateral lesions (
P
<.01). On magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), bone marrow edema improved in all patients during the follow-up period. After extracorporeal shock wave therapy, all patients remained pain-free and had normal findings on posttreatment radiographs and MRI scans. Extracorporeal shock wave therapy appears to be a valid, reliable, and noninvasive tool for rapidly resolving intractable bone marrow edema syndrome of the hip, and it has a low complication rate and relatively low cost compared with other conservative and surgical treatment approaches. [
Orthopedics.
2015; 38(4):e263–e270.]
Implant Positioning in TKA: Comparison Between Conventional and Patient-Specific Instrumentation
Authors: Ferrara Ferdinando , Cipriani Antonio , Magarelli Nicola , Rapisarda Santi , De Santis Vincenzo , Burrofato Aaron , Leone Antonio , Bonomo Lorenzo
Published: May 2015

The number of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) procedures continuously increases, with good to excellent results. In the last few years, new surgical techniques have been developed to improve prosthesis positioning. In this context, patient-specific instrumentation is included. The goal of this study was to compare the perioperative parameters and the spatial positioning of prosthetic components in TKA procedures performed with patient-specific instrumentation vs traditional TKA. In this prospective comparative randomized study, 15 patients underwent TKA with 3-dimensional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) preoperative planning (patient-specific instrumentation group) and 15 patients underwent traditional TKA (non–patient-specific instrumentation group). All patients underwent postoperative computed tomography (CT) examination. In the patient-specific instrumentation group, preoperative data planning regarding femoral and tibial bone resection was correlated with intraoperative measurements. Surgical time, length of hospitalization, and intraoperative and postoperative bleeding were compared between the 2 groups. Positioning of implants on postoperative CT was assessed for both groups. Data planned with 3-dimensional MRI regarding the depth of bone cuts showed good to excellent correlation with intraoperative measurements. The patient-specific instrumentation group showed better perioperative outcomes and good correlation between the spatial positioning of prosthetic components planned preoperatively and that seen on postoperative CT. Less variability was found in the patient-specific instrumentation group than in the non–patient-specific instrumentation group in spatial orientation of prosthetic components. Preoperative planning with 3-dimensional MRI in TKA has a better perioperative outcome compared with the traditional method. Use of patient-specific instrumentation can also improve the spatial positioning of both prosthetic components. [
Orthopedics.
2015; 38(4):e271–e280.]
Femoral Midshaft Fractures: Expandable Versus Locked Nailing
Authors: Zhou Zhen-Tao , Song Yu-Chen , Zhou Xiao-Zhong , Zhou Hai-Bin , Luo Zong-Ping , Dong Qi-Rong
Published: May 2015

Femoral midshaft fracture is one of the most common clinical injuries and is often caused by high-energy traffic accidents. Intramedullary nailings, plates, and external fixators are all used as treatment alternatives for a variety of patients depending on fracture location, displacement, comminution, soft tissue condition, and local tradition. Locked intramedullary nailing is currently the preferred treatment method for most diaphyseal fractures and has good clinical results. The goal of this study was to compare expandable and locked intramedullary nailing for the treatment of AO type 32A and 32B1 femoral midshaft fractures. The authors performed a retrospective analysis of 46 patients (33 men and 13 women; mean age, 32.3 years; range, 22–52 years) with femoral midshaft fractures who were divided into 2 groups—one treated with an expandable intramedullary nailing method and the other with a conventional locked intramedullary nailing. The 2 groups were compared with respect to operation time, fluoroscopic time, amount of estimated blood loss, hospitalization time, healing time, and complications. Patients were followed for at least 1 year. The results of this study showed that all of the patients achieved bone union within 12 to 24 months. Expandable nailing performed better than locked nailing in operation time, fluoroscopic time, amount of estimated blood loss, and healing time (
P
<.001). There was no difference in hospitalization time and no visible shortening or severe complications were observed in either group. Based on the results of this study, the expandable intramedullary nailing is an easy and effective treatment for AO type 32A and 32B1 diaphyseal femoral fractures. [
Orthopedics.
2015; 38(4):e314–e318.]