bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A biophysical model to assess the trade‐off between larval recruitment and catch in southern Australia's largest prawn fishery
Authors: Mcleay Lachlan , Doubell Mark , Roberts Shane , Dixon Cameron , Andreacchio Lorenzo , James Charles , Luick John , Middleton John
Published: February 2016

Data from stock assessment surveys, published research and climate sensors were linked to model the interaction between fishing, physical‐oceanographic processes and spatial patterns of larval settlement for western king prawn [Penaeus (Melicertus) latisulcatus]. This information was used to evaluate the trade‐off between larval recruitment and catch during fishing periods that demand high prices but coincide with spawning. Total rates of larval settlement were maximized when tidal currents and atmospheric physical‐forcing components were coupled with simulations of larval swimming behaviour under average gulf temperatures. Average gulf temperatures sustained longer larval durations and increased larval settlement rates by over 12% compared with warmer gulf conditions simulated under a scenario of global warming. Reproductive data coupled with outputs from the biophysical model identified consistent inter‐annual patterns in the areas contributing to larval settlement success. Areas located in the north‐east, and central‐west of the fishery, consistently contributed to over 40% of all larvae reaching a settlement in each year. Harvest sensitivity analyses indicated that changes in the spatial patterns of pre‐Christmas fishing could lead to improvements in overall rates of the larval settlement while maintaining or improving the levels of catch. Future studies to refine the model inputs relating to physical processes, larval behaviour and mortality rates for P. latisulcatus coupled with surveys of juvenile prawn abundance to ground truth the modelled predictions, would allow stock recruitment relationships to be more closely examined and inform adaptive management of the fishery in the future.
The SpatialARMED Framework: Handling Complex Spatial Components in Spatial Association Rule Mining
Authors: Dao Thi Hong Diep , Thill Jean‐Claude
Published: February 2016

Recent research has identified spatial association rule (SAR) mining as a promising technique for geographic pattern mining and knowledge discovery. Nevertheless, important spatial components embedded in the studied phenomenon, in particular complex spatial functional relations such as neighborhood effects and spatial spillover effects have largely been neglected. This article unravels this specific problem to enhance the effective application of SAR mining practices in spatial data analytics. The main discussion focuses on the specification of complex spatial components by means of spatial dependence properties of the data and on how to integrate them in the process of SAR mining. A comprehensive framework dubbed SpatialARMED is proposed for the effective extraction of spatial patterns. The framework is then showcased through its application to crime analysis.
Quantifying Animal Trajectories Using Spatial Aggregation and Sequence Analysis: A Case Study of Differentiating Trajectories of Multiple Species
Authors: Gao Peng , Kupfer John A. , Zhu Xi , Guo Diansheng
Published: February 2016

The increasing availability of telemetry data with high spatial and temporal resolution promises to greatly advance scientific understandings of the movement patterns of individual organisms across space and time. The amount of data provided by such methods, however, can be challenging to analyze and interpret. In this study, we present a new approach for analyzing animal movements that aggregates telemetry locations into spatial clusters and extracts the information from sequences formed by individuals passing through these spatial clusters. We applied this integrated approach of spatial aggregation and sequence analysis to quantify and compare trajectories of cattle (Bos taurus), mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus), and elk (Cervus elaphus) tracked by automated telemetry at the Starkey Experimental Forest and Range in northeastern Oregon, USA. Our approach effectively differentiated movement patterns of the three species. It provides a useful mean of quantifying movement patterns of species in a landscape.
Targeted and exome sequencing identified somatic mutations in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Hirotsu Yosuke , Zheng Tang‐Hui , Amemiya Kenji , Mochizuki Hitoshi , Guleng Bayasi , Omata Masao
Published: February 2016

Aim

Genetic analysis has revealed a subset of recurrently mutated genes and aberrant cellular signaling pathways in hepatocellular carcinoma. To investigate genetic alterations and dysregulated pathways in hepatocellular carcinoma, we performed targeted sequencing and exome analysis using next‐generation sequencer.

Methods

We analyzed the somatic mutational profiles of 16 genes in primary hepatocellular carcinoma by targeted ultra‐deep sequencing using nine pairs of specimens (tumor and peripheral blood) and whole‐exome sequencing using one pair of samples.

Results

Overall, somatic mutations with high allele fraction were identified in tumor tissues by targeted deep sequencing. Somatic mutations with high allele fraction were observed in TP53 (3/9; 33%) and CTNNB1 (2/9; 22%) genes in five out of nine (55%) specimens. In vitro analysis showed that CTNNB1 H36P mutant protein identified in tumor samples was resistant to protein degradation and promoted cell proliferation. Exome sequencing identified SLIT3 mutation, implying that dysregulation of axon guidance genes is involved in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma. These results showed that TP53 and WNT/β‐catenin signaling pathways were commonly mutated in hepatocellular carcinoma.

Conclusion

These results suggest that targeted sequencing and exome sequencing enable the identification of putative oncogenic driver mutations during the development of hepatocarcinoma.
Experiences of nursing staff caring for patients with methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Andersson H. , Andreassen Gleissman S. , Lindholm C. , Fossum B.
Published: February 2016

Background

Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus is a resistant variant of S. aureus and can cause pneumonia, septicaemia and, in some cases, death. Caring for patients with antibiotic resistant bacteria is a challenge for healthcare personnel. There is a risk of spreading the bacteria among patients and of healthcare personnel being infected themselves.

Aim

To describe nursing staffs' experiences of caring for patients with methicillin‐resistant S. aureus in Sweden.

Method

A descriptive qualitative approach was used and 15 nurses from different hospitals and care units, including emergency and geriatric wards and nursing homes in Stockholm, were interviewed. All nurses had been involved in the care of patients with methicillin‐resistant S. aureus, but not on a regular basis. The interviews were analysed using qualitative content analysis.

Findings

Three themes emerged from the data: feeling ignorant, afraid and insecure, feeling competent and secure and feeling stressed and overworked. The more knowledge the nurses acquired about methicillin‐resistant S. aureus, the more positive was their attitude to caring for these patients.

Discussion and conclusion

Caring for patients with methicillin‐resistant S. aureus without adequate knowledge of how to protect oneself and other patients against transmission may provoke anxiety among personnel. Guidelines, memos and adequate information at the right time are of central importance. Healthcare personnel must feel safe in their role as caregivers. All patients have the right to have the same quality of care regardless of the diagnosis and a lack of knowledge influences the level of care given.

Implications for nursing and health policy

This study demonstrates the importance of education when caring for patients with infectious diseases. Hopefully, knowledge gained from our study can provide guidance for future health care when new diseases and infections occur.
Efficacy of one‐stage surgical treatment and clinical features in patients with multiple pressure ulcers
Authors: Han Hyun Ho , Choi Eun Jeong , Choi Jong Yun , Rhie Jong Won
Published: February 2016

Treating patients with multiple pressure ulcers is a very challenging task for physicians. However, there are very few reports on treatment protocols for multiple pressure ulcers and treatment outcomes. The authors have consistently treated multiple pressure ulcers in a one‐stage operation rather than a staged operation. We evaluated multiple pressure ulcers patients who underwent a one‐stage operation from 2007 to 2014. A comparison was made between 20 patients who underwent a one‐stage operation on 44 foci and 68 patients with a single focus. Though the results, we could conclude that one‐stage operation of multiple pressure ulcers was found to have a shorter recovery period and shorter hospitalization without a significant increase in complications.
First case of hepatopancreatic necrosis disease in pond‐reared Chinese mitten crab, Eriocheir sinensis, associated with microsporidian
Authors: Ding Z , Meng Q , Liu H , Yuan S , Zhang F , Sun M , Zhao Y , Shen M , Zhou G , Pan J , Xue H , Wang W
Published: February 2016

An epidemic of hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (HPND) with a high mortality rate (40%–50%) recently occurred in the cultured Chinese mitten crab, Eriocheir sinensis, which is a very important economic crustacean species in China. Histology revealed infection by a microsporidian parasite within the cytoplasm of the epithelial cells of the hepatopancreas. Numerous discrete inclusions in the infected cells and presumably free parasite spores were also observed. By negative staining using electron microscopy, a typical morphology of spores was observed with a protuberant front of the anchoring disc. Infection was confined to the epithelial cells of the hepatopancreas, with no other organ implicated. By sequencing the PCR products using specific primers based on conserved regions of microsporidian small subunit (18S) ribosomal DNA, it was revealed that the parasite from HPND ponds had 99% sequence identity to that of Hepatospora eriocheir. Phylogentic analysis also placed the microsporidian in the same lineage as H. eriocheir. This study reported the first case of widespread infections of H. eriocheir associated with HPND found in the pond‐reared Chinese mitten crab, E. sinensis. The description of microsporidian in this important commercial host is fundamental for future consideration of factors affecting stock health and sustainability.
Temporary protection of rainbow trout gill epithelial cells from infection with viral haemorrhagic septicaemia virus IVb
Authors: Al‐Hussinee L , Pham PH , Russell S , Tubbs L , Tafalla C , Bols NC , Dixon B , Lumsden JS
Published: February 2016

The branchial epithelium is not only a primary route of entry for viral pathogens, but is also a site of viral replication and subsequent shedding may also occur from the gill epithelium. This study investigated the potential of agents known to stimulate innate immunity to protect rainbow trout epithelial cells (RTgill‐W1) from infection with VHSV IVb. RTgill‐W1 cells were pretreated with poly I:C, FuGENE® HD + poly I:C, lipopolysaccharide (LPS), LPS + poly I:C or heat‐killed VHSV IVb and then infected with VHSV IVb 4 days later. Cytopathic effect (CPE) was determined at 2, 3, 4, 7 and 11 days post‐infection. Virus in cells and supernatant was detected using quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). All of the treatments delayed the onset of CPE (per cent of monolayer destruction), compared with untreated controls; however, killed VHSV or poly I:C combined with LPS was the most effective. Similarly, the detection of viral RNA in the supernatant was delayed, and the quantity was significantly (P < 0.05) reduced by all treatments with the exception of LPS alone (4 days). Unlike many of the other treatments, pretreatment of RTgill‐W1 with heat‐killed VHSV did not upregulate interferon 1, 2 or MX 1 gene expression.
Patients with perianal Crohn's disease have poor disease outcomes after primary bowel resection
Authors: Han Yoo Min , Kim Ji Won , Koh Seong‐Joon , Kim Byeong Gwan , Lee Kook Lae , Im Jong Pil , Kim Joo Sung , Jung Hyun Chae
Published: February 2016

Background and Aim

The presence of perianal disease in Crohn's disease patients is one of the factors of postoperative recurrence. The aim of this study is to evaluate long‐term prognosis of perianal Crohn's disease patients in Asian.

Methods

Patients with Crohn's disease who had undergone surgical bowel resection were divided into two groups according to the presence of perianal lesion. We monitored the occurrences of abdominal and/or perianal reoperation and readmission due to disease flare‐up.

Results

The 132 patients included in the study were divided into 2 groups, those with perianal disease (45 patients, 34.1%) and those without perianal disease (87 patients, 65.9%). Patients with perianal disease was younger in age (33.8 years versus 39.8 years, p = 0.015) and had been diagnosed as CD at a younger age (21.9 years versus 28.6 years, p = 0.005) than patients without perianal disease. Patients with perianal disease showed more extra‐intestinal manifestation than patients without perianal disease (8 versus 3, p = 0.008). Reoperation was required in 46 (44.8%) patients during the follow‐up period. The presence of perianal disease independently increased the risk of reoperation [hazard ratio (HR), 3.112; confidence interval (CI), 1.707–5.675]. Furthermore, patients with perianal disease had increasing risks of abdominal reoperation (HR 1.978; 95% CI, 1.034–3.784).

Conclusions

Patients with Crohn's disease and perianal lesions had a higher risk of reoperation. Considering these findings, physicians should consider aggressive and early top down therapy for patients with perianal Crohn's disease.
Clinical characteristics of primary gastric lymphoma detected during screening for gastric cancer in Korea
Authors: Yang Hyo‐Joon , Lee Changhyun , Lim Seon Hee , Choi Ji Min , Yang Jong In , Chung Su Jin , Choi Seung Ho , Im Jong Pil , Kim Sang Gyun , Kim Joo Sung
Published: February 2016

Background and Aim

The role of screening endoscopy in primary gastric lymphoma (PGL) has not been investigated. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical characteristics and outcomes of PGLs detected by screening endoscopy in the high prevalence area of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study enrolled consecutive subjects who were diagnosed with PGL by endoscopic screening in Seoul National University Hospital Healthcare System Gangnam Center, Seoul, Korea, between October 2003 and September 2013. The characteristics and outcome of screening‐detected patients (screening group) were compared with consecutive subjects diagnosed with PGL in the outpatient clinic (outpatient group).

Results

Of the 105 194 recipients of screening upper endoscopy, 52 (0.049%) were found to have PGL. The median age was 54.2 years (range 23–79), and 65.4% were women. The proportion of PGL to gastric malignancy was 12.1% (52/429) overall, but >30% (25/73) in middle‐aged (40–59) women. PGLs in the screening group were more likely to be mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma (98.1% vs 60.0%, P < 0.001) and treated with H. pylori eradication alone (90.0% vs 48.1%, P < 0.001) than those in the outpatient group. Moreover, the screening group showed better 5‐year overall survival (100.0% vs 89.3%, P = 0.016) and progression‐free survival (94.9% vs 83.4%, P = 0.040) than the outpatient group.

Conclusions

In Korea, a high prevalence area of H. pylori infection, PGL seems more prevalent than in Western countries. Endoscopic screening may help to detect early stage H. pylori‐positive mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma. A high index of suspicion is needed, especially in middle‐aged women.
Effects of Maternal Mental Health on Engagement in Favorable Health Practices During Pregnancy
Authors: Alhusen Jeanne L. , Ayres Lauren , DePriest Kelli
Published: February 2016

Introduction

A woman's health practices during pregnancy are associated with maternal and neonatal outcomes. Yet limited research has examined predictors of a woman's engagement in favorable health practices, particularly in pregnant women at greatest risk for adverse outcomes. We examined the role of mental health on engagement in favorable health practices during pregnancy in a sample of pregnant, low‐income, predominantly African American women.

Methods

A convenience sample of pregnant women was obtained from 3 obstetric clinics within a large Mid‐Atlantic academic health system. Pregnant women (N = 166) completed measures of depression, social support, and engagement in favorable health practices during their second trimester. Six domains of health practices (ie, balance of rest and exercise, safety measures, nutrition, substance use, health care access, access to pregnancy‐related information) were assessed by the Health Practices in Pregnancy Questionnaire‐II. Multiple linear regression was used to examine predictors of engagement in favorable health practices.

Results

Fifty‐nine percent of the study participants experienced depressive symptomatology during pregnancy. Multivariate linear regression modeling demonstrated that increased depressive symptoms, decreased social support, young age, and prepregnancy overweight or obesity were significant predictors of nonengagement in favorable health practices during pregnancy.

Discussion

Findings suggest that pregnant women with poor mental health (eg, depressive symptomatology, poor social support) and specific sociodemographic characteristics (eg, young age, prepregnancy overweight or obesity) were less likely to engage in favorable health practices during pregnancy. Health care providers are uniquely positioned to assess a woman's mental health and related indicators to optimize pregnancy and neonatal outcomes.
Sexual Behavior, Satisfaction, and Contraceptive Use Among Postpartum Women
Authors: Sok Christina , Sanders Jessica N. , Saltzman Hanna M. , Turok David K.
Published: February 2016

Introduction

This study aimed to 1) describe the behaviors and timing of the first sexual activity postpartum, 2) compare characteristics of women who return to vaginal intercourse by 6 weeks postpartum to those who initiate intercourse after 6 weeks, 3) evaluate contraceptive use of postpartum women, and 4) describe the physical and emotional satisfaction with the first sexual activity postpartum.

Methods

This prospective study recruited participants during prenatal visits or postpartum prior to hospital discharge. Women completed an initial survey regarding pregnancy intendedness, contraceptive history, breastfeeding plans, sexual activity, satisfaction, and initiation. Postpartum surveys were conducted every 2 weeks starting 6 weeks after birth until 12 weeks or return to vaginal sexual intercourse.

Results

A total of 370 participants were recruited; 304 (82%) were followed to first intercourse. By life table analysis at 6 weeks (42 days) postpartum, 132 (43%) of women had resumed sexual intercourse, but only 65 (49%) of those women reported using contraception. There were no significant demographic or obstetric differences by timing of resumption of intercourse. However, when controlling for these characteristics, women who reported using contraception at 6 weeks postpartum were 1.8 times (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.2‐3.2; P = .015) more likely to have had vaginal intercourse by 6 weeks postpartum compared to women who were not using contraception then. By 12 weeks postpartum, 341 (92%) of women had resumed vaginal intercourse. Psychological and physical satisfaction during sex was lower both during pregnancy and after giving birth, relative to satisfaction before pregnancy (P < .001).

Discussion

By 6 weeks postpartum, 4 in 10 women had resumed vaginal intercourse, with only half using contraception. Counseling regarding postpartum contraception should meet normative behavior. Thus, contraceptive plans need to be established during prenatal care, and the postpartum visit should occur earlier than the current standard time of 6 weeks.
Acute Effects of Lysergic Acid Diethylamide on Circulating Steroid Levels in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Strajhar P. , Schmid Y. , Liakoni E. , Dolder P. C. , Rentsch K. M. , Kratschmar D. V. , Odermatt A. , Liechti M. E.
Published: February 2016

Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is a serotonin 5‐hydroxytryptamine‐2A (5‐HT2A) receptor agonist that is used recreationally worldwide. Interest in LSD research in humans waned after the 1970s, although the use of LSD in psychiatric research and practice has recently gained increasing attention. LSD produces pronounced acute psychedelic effects, although its influence on plasma steroid levels over time has not yet been characterised in humans. The effects of LSD (200 μg) or placebo on plasma steroid levels were investigated in 16 healthy subjects using a randomised, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, cross‐over study design. Plasma concentration–time profiles were determined for 15 steroids using liquid‐chromatography tandem mass‐spectrometry. LSD increased plasma concentrations of the glucocorticoids cortisol, cortisone, corticosterone and 11‐dehydrocorticosterone compared to placebo. The mean maximum concentration of LSD was reached at 1.7 h. Mean peak psychedelic effects were reached at 2.4 h, with significant alterations in mental state from 0.5 h to > 10 h. Mean maximal concentrations of cortisol and corticosterone were reached at 2.5 h and 1.9 h, and significant elevations were observed 1.5–6 h and 1–3 h after drug administration, respectively. LSD also significantly increased plasma concentrations of the androgen dehydroepiandrosterone but not other androgens, progestogens or mineralocorticoids compared to placebo. A close relationship was found between plasma LSD concentrations and changes in plasma cortisol and corticosterone and the psychotropic response to LSD, and no clockwise hysteresis was observed. In conclusion, LSD produces significant acute effects on circulating steroids, especially glucocorticoids. LSD‐induced changes in circulating glucocorticoids were associated with plasma LSD concentrations over time and showed no acute pharmacological tolerance.
Ultrasonic Assessment of the Prevalence of Carotid Artery Stenosis in Asymptomatic Volunteers
Authors: Niederkorn Kurt , Horner Susanna , Schmidt Reinhold , Fazekas Franz , Lechner Helmut
Published: February 2016

High‐resolution Duplex scanning of the carotid artery was performed
in 125 clinically asymptomatic and randomly chosen
volunteers to determine the prevalence and extent of atherosclerotic
stenosis. The proband age ranged from 24 to 74 years
(mean, 50 years). Abnormal ultrasound findings were noted in
37 subjects (30%). Of this group, 34 had minimal carotid
plaques causing less than 20% reduction in artery diameter
and 3 had moderate plaques causing 20 to 49% reduction in
diameter. No hemodynamically significant obstructions were
noted. Stepwise logistic regression using age and sex as covariates
identified age (p = 0.0002) and fibrinogen level (p =
0.02) as the most powerful predictors for the presence of asymptomatic
carotid artery stenosis. The sonographic results of
the asymptomatic group were compared with those in 200 patients
(mean age, 55 years) who had acute ischemic stroke.
Preliminary follow‐up results (mean follow‐up time, 26 months)
in 38 probands of the asymptomatic group showed progression
of the carotid stenosis in 13, which was associated with a
significantly lower level of high‐density‐lipoprotein cholesterol.
Lipid‐Coated Uniform Microbubbles for Earlier Sonographic Detection of Brain Tumors
Authors: D'Arrigo Joseph S. , Simon Richard H. , Ho Shih-Yieh
Published: February 2016

Rapid technological improvements have fostered the continued clinical development of intraoperative neurosonology. despite the fact that no suitable contrast media have been available for ultrasound studies. Because they can be made of uniform size (99% are less than 4.5 µm in diameter) and are thought to cross disruptions in the tumor vessels, artificial lipid‐coated microbubbles can fill this gap. Furthermore, these microbubbles are stable in vitro for at least 6 months, with an in vivo half‐life of 20 hours or more. This study demonstrated that lipid‐coated microbubbles injected intravascularly can intensify echoes from rat brain gliomas. Specifically, when this standardized microbubble contrast agent was injected intravenously daily in rats, the time to visual ultrasonic detection of developing brain tumors (C‐6 gliomas) was 4.09 days (n = 11) after tumor inoculation, versus 6.67 days (n = 9) to detection without microbubble injection (Z = −3.71, p = 0.0004).
Pyogenic Thalamic Brain Abscess in the Setting of a Ventricular Septal Defect
Authors: Bergen Gary A. , Wallach Paul M. , Adelman Harold M.
Published: February 2016

Congenital heart disease occurs in 8 of 1,000 live births, with ventricular septal defects comprising 30% of these. Although many are now corrected surgically in infancy or childhood, persisting septal defects in adulthood increase the risk of congestive heart failure. irreversible pulmonary hypertension with resulting Eisenmenger's physiology, infective endocarditis, aortic insufficiency, systemic abscesses, and polycythemia. The acute onset of fever and meningeal signs in a 38‐year‐old man led to the discovery of a pyogenic thalamic brain abscess associated with a large ventricular septal defect and a tricuspid vegetation. To date, only 19 similar solitary pyogenic thalamic abscesses have been reported, and 5 were associated with ventricular septal defects.
The Effect of Hemorheologic Factors on Middle Cerebral Artery Blood Flow Velocity in Young Individuals
Authors: Ameriso Sebastian F. , Meiselman Herbert J. , Saraj Asma , Fisher Mark
Published: February 2016

Analysis of the effect of hemorheologic factors on middle cerebral artery (MCA) blood flow velocity in 55 healthy individuals aged 18 to 30 years demonstrated an inverse association between mean MCA blood flow velocity and hematocrit (r = −0.27, p < 0.05). This association was largely explained by the effect of whole‐blood viscosity. Neither fibrinogen concentration nor plasma viscosity were significantly associated with MCA blood flow velocity in this group; this lack of a fibrinogen association is in contrast to results previously obtained in elderly individuals where an inverse association was observed. These findings thus demonstrate age‐dependent differences in the relationship between fibrinogen and MCA blood flow velocity.
Methotrexate‐induced Leukoencephalopathy
Authors: Kibria Eshan
Published: February 2016

Methotrexate, a folic acid antagonist, is commonly administered intrathecally or intravenously as part of treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia, brain tumor, or childhood osteosarcoma. It is well documented that intrathecal administration of methotrexate combined with radiation therapy causes leukoencephalopathy; however, there are no reports on the effects of methotrexate administered intravenously without radiation. A child with acute lymphoblastic leukemia was given intravenous methotrexate and subsequently developed clinical signs and magnetic resonance imaging findings consistent with leukoencephalopathy.
Meningeal Gadolinium Enhancement in Low‐pressure Headaches
Authors: Mokri Bahram , Krueger Bruce R , Miller Gary M , Piepgras David G
Published: February 2016

Three patients with headaches in erect but not recumbent positions had barely measurable cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressures and aseptic but abnormal CSF findings with variable pleocytosis and elevated protein content. The CSF glucose level was normal and there were no blasts or malignant cells. Gadolinium‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in all 3 showed diffuse meningeal enhancement. In 2, headaches and MRI abnormalities completely resolved spontaneously. The third patient, who had a prior ventriculoperitoneal shunt, improved after shunt revision.
Clinical and Magnetic Resonance Imaging Findings in a Patient with “Locked‐in” Syndrome
Authors: Jeret Joseph S , Lechtenberg Richard , Blanchfield Colleen A , Liu David P.C
Published: February 2016

A man with primary brainstem infarction developed the “locked‐in” syndrome. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated occlusion of the vertebral and basilar arteries associated with structural changes in the pons and midbrain. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis was significant for elevated protein content and high titers of myelin basic protein.
Spontaneous Intracranial Arterial Dissection and Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Raps Eric C. , Galetta Steven L. , Goldberg Herbert I. , Wong Paul , Flamm Eugene S.
Published: February 2016

Spontaneous intracranial arterial dissection may cause subarachnoid or rarely intraventricular hemorrhage. The clinical presentation may resemble aneurysmal rupture. Experience using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) in establishing the diagnosis of intracranial arterial dissection has been limited. We report three patients with intracranial arterial dissection and describe the correlation between findings on conventional angiography and MRI or MRA.
Slowly Progressive En‐plaque Intracranial Sarcoidosis
Authors: Scott Thomas F. , Brillman Jon , Marquardt Merlin
Published: February 2016

A patient with suspected multiple sclerosis was studied with serial brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) over a period of 3 years before undergoing brain biopsy of an intracranial lesion, which proved to be meningeal sarcoidosis. This is the first report of enhanced and unenhanced MRI study of biopsy‐proved intracranial meningeal sarcoidosis. Invasion of brain tissue seen on biopsy specimens could not be inferred from the MRI appearance.
Frontotemporal Hypometabolism in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis‐Dementia Complex
Authors: Levine Ross L. , Brooks Benjamin R. , Matthews Charles G. , Rosenbek John C. , Hartmann Henrik A. , Nickles Robert J.
Published: February 2016

Positron emission tomography (PET) with fluorine‐18‐2‐fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) showed bifrontal and bitemporal hypometabolism in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)‐dementia complex (n = 6; 5 by PET, 4 by postmortem examination) as compared to nondemented ALS (n = 10) and normal subjects (n = 10). Subjects were of comparable age, ALS patients were of comparable motor severity, and those with dementia were either mildly or moderately impaired at the time of PET study. ALS in all patients was of sporadic nature. Results, using Kruskai‐Wallis comparisons, revealed that normalized mean FDG values for the superior frontal and superior and mesial temporal cortical regions in ALS‐dementia patients were diffusely, symmetrically, and significantly lower (p < 0.005) than values from either the normal or the nondemented ALS group. FOG values for the caudate, putamen, lateral temporal cortex, occipital cortex, and cerebellum did not distinguish the groups. Pathological data in 4 ALS‐dementia complex patients revealed significant gross atrophy of gyri in both frontal lobes. The atrophy was less pronounced in the temporal lobes. The striking microscopic finding was an extensive proliferation of reactive astrocytes in the subcortical white matter. ALS‐dementia brains were free of Lewy bodies, Pick bodies, ischemic infarctions, and Alzheimer pathological changes. Neurobehavioral and neuropsychological data in ALS‐dementia patients revealed decrements in psychometricintelligence, memory, orientation aha attention, verbal fluency, concept formation and abstraction, mental speed and flexibility, and expressive language and writing skills, and relatively preserved stereognosis and visuospatial orientation.
Unilateral Supraclinoid Internal Carotid Artery Stenosis with Moyamoya‐like Vasculopathy: Noninvasive Assessments
Authors: Muppala Murali , Castaldo John E
Published: February 2016

Presented are the results of an extensive noninvasive assessment of supraclinoid internal carotid artery (ICA) stenosis with moyamoya‐like vasculopathy in 3 patients with a history of stroke. Five noninvasive criteria for the diagnosis based on magnetic resonance imaging of the brain, and hemodynamic testing using ocular pneumoplethysmography, duplex carotid ultrasound, and transcranial Doppler sonography were established: (1) normal ocular pneumoplethysmography demonstrating no pressure significant stenosis to the level of the ophthalmic artery; (2) abnormal Doppler spectral waveforms showing either no flow or a high‐resistance flow pattern for the ipsilateral cervical internal carotid artery; (3) paradoxically low flow velocities for the ipsilateral intracranial (ICA) and middle cerebral artery (MCA), and markedly abnormal high velocities for the contralateral ICA and MCA; (4) decreased ipsilateral MCA vasomotor reactivity; and (5) deep MCA territory ipsilateral subcortical watershed infarction evidenced by magnetic resonance imaging. This report demonstrates that a noninvasive battery of tests may be useful in the early diagnosis and treatment of these patients.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Ochronosis. a Rare Cause of Back Pain
Authors: Ryan Stephen J , Smith Charles D , Slevin John T
Published: February 2016

A 34‐year‐old man had progressive, poorly controlled low back pain for 3 years before testing confirmed a diagnosis of ochronosis. This is the first case description of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) appearance of spinal ochronosis, which should be considered when advanced degenerative change is seen on spinal MRI in young individuals.
No Differences in Corpus Callosum Size by Sex and Aging
Authors: Pozzilli C. , Bastianello S. , Bozzao A. , Pierallini A. , Giubilei F. , Argentino C. , Bozzao L.
Published: February 2016

To identify normal variations in the magnetic resonance imaging appearances of the corpus callosum with regard to sex and age, a prospective study was performed in 130 normal subjects. Callosal measurements were calculated by morphometric analysis. There were no significant sex differences in corpus callosum area or the callosal subregions. The absolute area did not decrease significantly with aging in normal males or females. However, age‐related changes of callosal configuration were shown by a decrease in the ratio of the rostrum and genu to the splenium.
Lumbosacral Spinal Intradural Extramedullary Paciniomyolipoma: Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Computed Tomography. and Pathology Findings
Authors: Phillips W. Eugene , Figueroa Ramon E. , Viloria Jesus , Ransohoff Joseph
Published: February 2016

This report desmbes a paciniomyolipoma as an intradural tumor of the lumbar spiriai cord composed of adipose tissue, stnated skeletal muscle, and paciriian corpuscles. Simple lipomas, myolipomas, and other vanant lipomas of the spinal cord have been described in the literature; to the authors' knowledge, however, this IS the first report of this unusual and unique lipoma.
Localized In Vivo 1H Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy and In Vitro Analyses of Heterogeneous Brain Tumors
Authors: Chang Linda , McBride Duncan , Miller Bruce L. , Cornford Marsha , Booth Ruth A. , Buchthal Steven D. , Ernst Thomas M. , Jenden Donald
Published: February 2016

Results of magnetic resonance spectroscopic (MRS) studies of the chemical patterns in brain tumors have been mconsistent. Actual biochemical correlations are needed. In 2 patients with heterogeneous intracranial tumors, in vivo 1H MRS and in vitro biochemical analyses were correlated. Histology confirmed the tumor heterogeneity. Choline was elevated in the cellular portion of both tumors but decreased in the necrotic or cystic portions. Creatine was diffusely decreased while lactate was elevated in all regions of both tumors. Furthermore, the increase in the choline peak on 1H MRS appeared to be due to increases in water‐soluble choline compounds. This study illustrates the value of small localized voxels for differentiating regional chemical differences in tumors.
Basilar Artery Dolichoectasia; Review of the Literature and Six Patients Studied with Magnetic Resonance Angiography
Authors: Levine Ross L. , Turski Patrick A. , Grist Thomas M.
Published: February 2016

Six patients for whom computed tomography revealed a curvilinear calcific mass anterior to their brainstem were evaluated and magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance angiography were performed on each. Magnetic resonance studies confirmed the suspicion of basilar artery dolichoectasia, and demonstrated a partial thrombus in the basilar artery in 1 patient. The patients' clinical features were combined with those of basilar artery dolichoectasia patients reported in the literature (n = 122) who had case histories sufficiently detailed enough to determine each person's mode of clmical presentation. Basilar artery dolichoectasia patients were more often men (95/128, 74%) and had a mean age of 59 ± 11 years. Of the 128 patients studied, there were cranial nerve compressive signs in 74 (58%), especially facial spasm (29/74, 39%) and trigeminal neuralgia (20/74, 27%); vertebral basilar insufficiency or vertebral basilar stroke or both in 61 (48%); hydrocephalus in 40 (31 %); compressive brainstem symptoms and signs that progressed clinically in 31 (24%); and arterial hypertension in 31 (24%) Magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance angiography safely diagnose this interesting arterial abnormality. The modes of clinical presentation of this disorder are reviewed.
Reduced Temporal Lobe Glucose Metabolism in Aging
Authors: Eberling J. L. , Nordahl T. E. , Kusubov N. , Reed B.R. , Budinger T. F. , Jagust W. J.
Published: February 2016

The results of a positron emission tomography study of regional cerebral metabolic rates for glucose are reported for 8 healthy old subjects (mean age, 66 yr; standard deviation [SD], 5) and 9 young subjects (mean age, 27 yr; SD, 4.6) using a high‐resolution positron emission tomograph and the glucose metabolic tracer 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose. Older subjects showed significantly lower cerebral metabolic rates than did the young subjects, in anterior, middle, and posterior temporal neocortex and in mesial temporal cortex, with the largest differences occurring in anterior temporal cortex (temporal pole). The current findings may reflect either decreases in regional cerebral metabolic rates for glucose that occur with normal aging, or early indications of cognitive dysfunction that is associated with age‐related disorders
Interrater Agreement of Computed Tomography Infarct Measurement
Authors: Pullicino P. , Snyder W. , Munschauer F. , Pordell R. , Greiner F.
Published: February 2016

To determine the reliability of infarct measurements on hardcopy computed tomography (CT) images the in vivo (IV) infarct volumes of 20 CT‐detected infarcts were estimated and divided into four size groups with 5 infarcts in each group: Group A, less than 0.5 ml; Group 8, 0.5 to 5.0 ml; Group C, 5 to 50 ml; and Group D, more than 50 mi. Seventeen infarcts were measured once and 3 infarcts three times to the nearest 0.5 mm by each of two neurologists and two neuroradiologists using a ruler on hard‐copy CT images. The longest diameter (designated AP), the greatest diameter at right angles to AP (designated LAT), and the number of slices showing the infarct were recorded and multiplied by the hard‐copy minification factor to give IV dimensions. Volume (VOL) was calculated according to a previously published method. lnterrater intraclass correlation coefficients for all infarcts combined were 0.98 (AP), 0.91 (LAT), and 0.97 (VOL). Using all raters' measurements for any single infarct, the difference between the largest and the smallest measurement of AP and LAT was smallest (< 6 mm IV) for Group A and largest (< 31 mm IV) for Group D. This difference was largest relative to the dimension being measured in Groups A and 8, where it reached 101% of the mean of the four raters' measurements for the AP dimension being measured in Group 8, and 70% of the dimension being measured in Group A. With all raters' measurements for any single infarct, the difference between the largest and smallest measurement of VOL was smallest (< 0.5 ml) for Group A and largest (< 260 ml) for Group D. This difference was largest relative to the mean volume of the infarct being measured in Group 8, where it reached 153% of the mean of the four raters' measurements for VOL and reached 115% of the mean of the four raters' measurements for VOL in Group A. The authors conclude that infarcts can be measured on hard‐copy images with good interrater agreement. When infarcts with a volume smaller than 5 ml are measured, differences between raters' measurements may exceed the size of the dimensions being measured.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Petrous Carotid Aneurysms
Authors: Patrick James T.
Published: February 2016

Aneurysms arising from the petrous segment of the internal carotid artery are rare and the majority of reports are based on evaluations with x‐ray catheter angiography (XRA) and computed tomography (CT). Due to the paucity of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) information, the author describes 2 patients with petrous carotid aneurysms evaluated with MRI and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA). Compared to XRA and CT, MRI and MRA are less invasive and provide more information regarding the aneurysm, including the size, shape, and site; the absence or presence and extent of hemorrhage, thrombus, and bony erosion; patency of the vessel; neck; and the extent of perianeurysmal compromise of vessels, cranial nerves, and parenchyma.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Brain in Aicardi's Syndrome
Authors: Smith, Charles D. , Ryan, Stephen J. , Hoover, Steven L. , Baumann, Robert J.
Published: February 2016

Aicardi's syndrome consists of multiple anomalies of the eye, brain, and axial skeleton in females, and is associated with early‐onset infantile spasms and severe developmental delay. For the present study, magnetic resonance images of 20 patients with Aicardi's syndrome were obtained and the neuroimaging findings catalogued. These were compared to previously reported results and the findings correlated with current theories of fetal brain development. The results revealed a high frequency of cortical migration defects (94%) and a wide variability in the callosal defect, migrational abnormalities, and other findings in Aicardi's syndrome.
Displaying Electroencephalographic Dipole Sources on Magnetic Resonance Images
Authors: Rodin E. , Rodin M. , Boyer R. , Thompson J.
Published: February 2016

A simple, inexpensive method of displaying electroencephalographic (EEG) dipole sources on magnetic resonance images (MRis) is presented. It consists of measuring the head according to the 10–20 system but instead of placing electrodes, benzonatate capsules (Tessalon Perles) (100 mg) are affixed to the patient's scalp. MRI is obtained with the capsules in place. In addition to the routine images, thin–section (1.0–1.3–mm) scans in a three–dimensional volume are obtained and the coordinates for each electrode position ascertained. The capsules are then replaced by electrodes and a waking and sleep recording is performed with a digital EEG instrument. Phenomena of interest are then averaged and interfaced with a source analysis program. The three–dimensional electrode coordinates are placed in a file and used to establish the electrode cloud on the basis of which source analysis proceeds. The three–dimensional source locations are then superimposed on the MRis. The method is useful in the workup of epilepsy patients, by relating focal epileptogenic activity to definable lesions, and it also allows more precise localization of normal EEG phenomena.
Magnetic Resonance Appearance of Cerebral Lymphomatoid Granulomatosis
Authors: Bhagavatula Kumar , Scott Thomas F.
Published: February 2016

Lymphomatoid granulomatosis is an angiecentric lymphoproliferative process that involves the lungs. In a 52‐year‐old man with lymphomatoid granulomatosis who presented with encephalopathy, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain demonstrated unusual multiple areas of enhancement that were both punctate and linear. These findings may be relatively specific for inflammation of deep cerebral vessels and have implications for MRI findings in other inflammatory cerebrovascular disorders.
Neuroimaging Abnormalities with Hypoglossal Nerve Palsies
Authors: Batchelor Tracy T. , Krol George S. , DeAngelis Lisa M.
Published: February 2016

Seven patients with acute or chronic unilateral hypoglossal nerve lesions were evaluated by magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography. In the patients with acute to subacute paralysis of the tongue, the base of the ipsilateral side of the tongue appeared expanded with increased signal intensity on T2‐weighted images. This appearance suggested an infiltrative mass lesion within the tongue. These radiographic findings are due to the pathophysiological process of nerve injury and muscle denervation.
Optimized Transcranial Doppler Technique for the Diagnosis of Cardiac Right‐to‐Left Shunts
Authors: Albert, A. , Müller, H. R. , Hetzel, A.
Published: February 2016

Transcranial Doppler sonography (TCD) is a simple method to detect a right‐to‐left cardiac shunt, although standardized procedures do not exist. In this study 69 patients were tested according to predetermined criteria and procedures (cluster of > 10 microbubbles, duration between injection in the cubital vein and detection in the middle cerebral artery [MCA] ≤ 10 sec). Agitated saline solution was compared to oxypolygelatine, a plasma volume expander, as contrast media. Valsalva's maneuver and coughing were used to provoke right‐to‐left cardiac shunting, detected by TCD, transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). Oxypolygelatine caused a significantly higher number of microbubbles in the right atrium and MCA than did the saline solution, leading to a greater diagnostic reliability of TCD (paired t test, p < 0.001). Coughing did not provoke right‐to‐left cardiac shunts (χ2 analysis, p < 0.001). The technique used for carrying out Valsalva's maneuver was important for the detection of right‐to‐left cardiac shunts. Twenty‐five right‐to‐left shunts were diagnosed with TCD and 18 with TTE (36 vs 26%; χ2 analysis, p = 0.1). The findings indicate that TCD when properly done is highly sensitive and specific for the diagnosis of right‐to‐left cardiac shunts.
Magnetic Resonance Cisternography in the Diagnosis of Delayed Iatrogenic Cerebrospinal Fistula: A Case Report
Authors: Geyer James D. , Nabors Louis B. , Harrell Lindy E. , Gomez Camilo R.
Published: February 2016

A 52–year–old woman presented with a clinical picture consistent with bacterial meningitis 3 years after functional endoscopic sinus surgery. Diagnosis of a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) fistula was made clinically, and the site of the fistula was confirmed using magnetic resonance cisternography. The utilization of this technique in the diagnosis of CSF disorders is gaining popularity. Its usefulness in the context of other imaging modalities is discussed.
Extrarolandic Origin of Spike and Myoclonus Activity in Epilepsia Partialis Continua: A Magnetoencephalographic and Positron Emission Tomography Study
Authors: Volkmann J. , Seitz R. J. , Müller-Gärtner H. W. , Witte O. W.
Published: February 2016

The dipole sources of interictal spike activity were localized and the myoclonus activity back‐averaged by combined magnetoencephalography and surface electromyographic measurements in a child who had epilepsia partialis continua without a structural brain lesion. Dipole sources were matched with metabolic information obtained from interictal 5‐fluoro‐o‐glucose positron emission tomography (PET) and superimposed onto highresolution magnetic resonance images. Dipole sources of interictal epileptic discharges clustered within the inferior parietal cortex, which also showed a regional hypermetabolism on PET scans. The dipole sources of reafferent activity following myocloni in the postcentral gyrus were associated with a local hypometabolism.