bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation Between Glycated Hemoglobin and Homa Indices in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Prediction of Beta-Cell Function from Glycated Hemoglobin / Korelacija Između Glikoliziranog Hemoglobina I Homa Indeksa U Dijabetes Melitusu Tipa 2: Predviđanje Funkcije Beta Ćelija Na Osnovu Glikoliziranog Hemoglobina
Authors: Al-Hakeim Hussein Kadhem , Abdulzahra Mohammed Saied
Published: April 2014

Background: The present study aimed to determine the most efficient insulin resistance function related to gly - cemic control expressed as glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients (T2DM). The other aim is to derive equations for the prediction of beta cell functions containing HbA1c as a parameter in addition to fasting glucose and insulin.

Methods: T2DM Patients were grouped according to the following: (1) degree of control (good, fair, and poor control) and (2) insulin resistance as observed in obtained data and significant differences revealed by the homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) of related parameters (insulin resistance = HOMA2IR, beta-cell function = HOMA%B, and in sulin sensitivity = HOMA%S) among groups. Corre - lations and forecasting regression analysis were calculated.

Results: HbA1c was found to be correlated with insulin resistance parameters in T2DM subgroups. This correlation was also significantly correlated with HOMA%B and the quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI) in fair and poor control groups. Regression analysis was used to predict the forecasting equations for HOMA%B. The best applicable equations were derived for healthy control (HOMA2%B=-1.76*FBG+5.00*Insulin+4.69*HbA1c+189.84) and poor control groups (HOMA2%B=0.001* FBG+0.5*Insulin-8.67*HbA1c+101.96). These equations could be used to predict b-cell function (HOMA%B) after FBG, insulin and HbA1c values were obtained for healthy and poor control groups. In the good and fair control groups, the applicability of the HOMA model fails to yield appropriate results.

Conclusions: Beta-cell function is correlated with QUICKI and HbA1c and could be predicted properly from HbA1c, insulin, and glucose in the healthy and poor control groups. New regression equations were established that involve HbA1c.
APPLICATION OF METAMODELLING TECHNIQUES FOR MECHANIZED TUNNEL SIMULATION
Authors: Khaledi Kavan , Schanz Tom , Miro Shorash
Published: April 2014

Complex engineering problems require using computation- ally expensive simulations which take relatively long time. In such cases, routine tasks such as design optimization, parameter identification, or sensitivity analysis become impractical since they require thousands or even millions of simulations. A common practice for engineers to solve this problem is to use metamodels in place of actual simulation models. In this paper, we investigate the performance of four metamodelling approaches, namely, Response Surface Methodology, Moving Least Squares, POD-RBF, and Neighborhood Approximation considering the effect of sample size and sampling methods. Our main goal in this work is to find a reliable and robust metamodel technique in order to construct an approximated function for mechanized tunnel simulation. For this reason, a numerical study is carried out on a 3D tunnel modeled in Plaxis3D and the accuracy and robustness of the aforementioned metamodelling techniques are discussed
Modified pid control design for roll fin actuator of nonlinear modelling of the fishing boat
Authors: Alarçin Fuat , Demirel Hakan , Ertugrul Su M. , Yurtseven Ahmet
Published: April 2014

This study aims to reduce roll motion of a fishing boat which arises from disturbing hydrodynamic effects by means of fin roll stabilizer. It is assured that roll motion with nonlinear damping and restoring moment coefficients are down to the desired level through classical PID and modified PID algorithms. At the time of sailing, stability, a very important concept, was examined using Lyapunov direct method taking initial conditions into consideration, and it was noted that the system was generally stable. In addition, NACA 0015 model was used for the fin roll stabilizer, and flow analysis was carried out with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) method. In the simulation results, when the same gains were used, modified PID controller algorithms were relatively more effective compared to PID in the fin roll stabilizer system.
Evolutionary sets of safe ship trajectories with speed reduction manoeuvres within traffic separation schemes
Authors: Szłapczyński Rafał
Published: April 2014

In the previous paper the author presented the evolutionary ship trajectory planning method designed to support Traffic Separation Schemes (TSS). This time the extensions of this method are described which allow to combine evolutionary trajectory planning with speed reduction manoeuvres. On TSS regions with higher than usual density of traffic and smaller distances between ships, the course alterations alone are not always sufficient or effective means of collision avoidance. Therefore they must be supplemented by speed reduction manoeuvres to a larger extent than on open waters. The paper includes a brief description of the optimisation problem, descriptions of the new elements of the method (fitness function, algorithms and the evolutionary cycle) and the examples of how the extended method successfully solves the problems unsolvable without applying speed reduction.
Regression Analysis of Principal Dimensions and Speed of Aircraft Carriers
Authors: Bi J.Y. , Zong Z.
Published: April 2014

In this paper empirical formulas relating the speed to principal dimensions of aircraft carriers have been obtained through regression analysis of the data of 105 aircraft carriers. To reduce uncertainty as much as possible, aircraft carriers are classified into several different categories. In each category, regression analysis is separately performed such that a variety of regression (empirical) formulas have thus been obtained for possible use at the initial design stage of a carrier. The goodness of fit of these formulas is finally analyzed through variance analysis.
Monitoring of underdeck corrosion by using acoustic emission method
Authors: Emilianowicz Krzysztof
Published: April 2014

This paper presents first short characteristics of underdeck corrosion process as well as a problem of its monitoring. Next is described an acoustic emission (AE) method elaborated by Department of Ship Technology, Quality Systems and Material Engineering, Gdańsk University of Technology in cooperation with partners of CORFAT project realized within 7th EU Frame Program. Further are presented short characteristics of the emission process, used measuring instrumentation of Vallen Systeme GmbH, as well as TESTER, corrosion testing device, and a corrosion solution used in the tests. Finally, results of the tests performed on selected marine units, are presented.
On the oribatid and mesostigmatid mites (Acari) of the High Arctic island of Hopen
Authors: Coulson Stephen J. , Schatz Heinrich , Gwiazdowicz Dariusz J. , Solhøy Torstein
Published: April 2014

The archipelago of Svalbard in the European High Arctic lies on the convergence of the Palaearctic and Nearctic flora and fauna and contains elements of both regions. The island of Hopen is located in the south east of the archipelago within the path of the cold south−westerly flowing East Svalbard Current originating in the Arctic ocean and flowing along the north Russian coast. This current is postulated as a colonization route of the invertebrate fauna of Svalbard. Few reports of the terrestrial invertebrates of Hopen exist and none of the mite suborders Oribatida or Mesostigmata. With the taxonomic confusion existing in the inventories of this important region of the Arctic, new sampling campaigns with species identified by modern taxonomic principles and with material deposited in accessible museums and collections are essential. Identified mites included six species of oribatid mites with Diapterobates notatus dominating, and five species of Mesostigmata with Zercon forsslundi forming the dominant species. None of the species collected was a new record for Svalbard and all have wide circumpolar, Palaearctic or Holarctic distributions. Dispersal to Svalbard from northern Russia is hence neither supported nor rejected. The expected oribatid and mesostigmatid diversity of the island is greater than observed from the limited sampling described here.
Depositional conditions and petroleum potential of the Middle Triassic Passhatten Member (Bravaisberget Formation), Spitsbergen
Authors: Karcz Przemysław
Published: April 2014

The Passhatten Member (Anisian-Ladinian) is the most westward exposure of the Middle Triassic sedimentary sequence of Spitsbergen. The member has an average organic carbon of 2.21 wt %. The sediments were deposited in a shallow shelf environment under conditions of high biological productivity stimulated by a well−developed upwelling system and an enhanced nutrient supply from land areas. The high biological productivity caused a high supply of organic particles to the shelf bottom. Decomposition of organic matter initiated oxygen deficiency in the bottom waters; however, bottom water dynamics on the shallow shelf temporarily replenished the oxygen. Consequently, the Passhatten Mb section is bioturbated, even in thick black shale horizons and consists of alternately spaced lithological layers with variable organic carbon content. The organic matter is dominated by type II kerogen with a mixture of strongly altered marine and/or land derived organic matter. Calculated initial hydrogen index values suggest oil−prone organic matter similar to kerogen I and II types. The organic matter is in the upper intermediate stage of thermo−cata− lytic alteration, close to the cata- and metagenetic boundary. Maturity indicators including Rock−Eval, Maximum Temperature, Organic Matter Transformation Ratio, Residual Car− bon content, as well as the volume of methane generated suggest mature to overmature organic matter. Methane potential retained in the black shales sequence is significant. Unexpelled gas is estimated at 395 mcf/ac−ft for the examined section.
Vertical migration of Siphonophora (Cnidaria) and their productivity in the Croker Passage, the Antarctic
Authors: Panasiuk-Chodnicka Anna A. , Żmijewska Maria I. , Mańko Maciej
Published: April 2014

The population structure, seasonal and diel changes in vertical distribution of two siphonophore species, Dimophyes arctica and Pyrostephos vanhoeffeni, in Croker Passage (Antarctic Peninsula) are examined, and compared with the results obtained by other au− thors in various oceanic areas. Zooplankton samples were taken at discrete depth intervals between 0 and 1200 m during day and night shifts, in both summer and winter seasons. Dimophyes arctica was present both in polygastric and eudoxid forms, with the latter being dominant throughout the entire study period. The results obtained demonstrate that Antarc− tic waters clearly enhance the reproductive ability of this species when compared with spec− imens from other oceanic regions. Maximum densities of Dimophyes arctica were recorded in December in the 200-400 m depth horizon. However, high concentrations of eudoxids were also recorded at deeper parts of the water column. Pyrostephos vanhoeffeni was, in contrast, most abundant in autumn and winter, and both species were found to proliferate and disperse or sink further down the water column during autumn and winter. Daily verti− cal migration was observed only during the summer period.
A Critical Realist Perspective on Decisions Involving Risk and Uncertainty
Authors: Ranyard Rob
Published: April 2014

The relevance to decision research of recent advances in the philosophy of social science is considered. The critical realism of Roy Bhaskar argues for the identification of contextually contingent explanatory mechanisms at multiple levels based on concepts grounded in intersubjectively shared reality. Using examples from the author’s and other’s research on the psychology of decisions involving risk and uncertainty, this paper explores the implications of taking a critical realist approach. It is argued that critical realism has the potential to advance and unify disparate experimental and naturalistic lines of research. Furthermore, a diverse range of experimental, process-tracing and observational methods can play important complementary roles in developing fruitful critical realist explanations of decisions involving risk and uncertainty
The confidence-frequency effect: A heuristic process explanation
Authors: Dida Fleisig , Dan Zakay
Published: April 2014

People’s feelings of confidence in the correctness of their knowledge while answering a knowledge test can be inferred in two ways: either by averaging the values of specific confidence values assigned to each item in a test (local confidence) or by asking after the termination of the test for an evaluation of the number of correct answers regarding the entire test (global confidence). Surprisingly, when local and global confidence values of the same test are compared, global confidence tends to be significantly lower than local confidence (the confidence frequency effect). In the present study a heuristic process explanation for the effect is presented and its validity is empirically tested. The global confidence heuristic (GCH) process is based on the ability of participants to recall, after a test was completed, the frequencies of specific confidence values which were assigned to the test’s items. Participants build their global confidence by adding about half the number of their guessed answers, to the number of questions with sure answers. The proposed GCH process was supported quantitatively. A content analysis on retrospective explanations provided by participants indicated that this process was feasible. Further research is needed in order to fully explore the power of the explanation suggested here for the confidence-frequency effect
FROST WEATHERING OF SELECTED ROCKS FROM THE TATRA MOUNTAINS
Authors: Lubera Ewa
Published: April 2014

The paper summarises the progress of a frost weathering simulation experiment involving a range of rocks after more than 300 gelation cycles. Samples of granite, conglomerate, sandstone, dolomite, limestone and amphibolite were sourced in the Chochołowska Valley, Tatra Mts. The simulation project, which continues at the Low Temperature Laboratory of the Jagiellonian University, Cracow, is set to quantify the resistance of the rocks to frost weathering by measuring the number of gelation cycles after which the samples are damaged. At the end of the project, the degree of damage will be assessed using the percentage loss of the initial sample weight and a frost weathering indicator. So far, little damage has been recorded overall, with the dolomite samples losing the highest percentage of their initial weight at nearly 6%. The paper also presents results of physical tests of the rocks, including their strength, porosity and density, which provide a useful insight into the interpretation of differences in frost weathering resistance.
Assessment of temozolomide action encapsulated in chitosan and polymer nanostructures on glioblastoma cell lines
Authors: Abrudan C. , Florian I.S. , Baritchii A. , Soritau O. , Dreve S. , Tomuleasa C. , Petrushev B.
Published: April 2014

Purpose : Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) remains one of the most devastating diseases known to mankind and affects more than 17,000 patients in the United States alone every year. This malignancy infiltrates the brain early in its course and makes complete neurosurgical resection almost impossible. Recent years have brought significant advances in tumor biology. Many cancers, including gliomas, appear to be supported by cells with stemlike properties. Nanoparticles are excellent candidates to serve as delivery vectors of drugs or biologically active molecules because of their unique chemical and physical properties that result in specific transportation and deposition of such agents in specific organs and tissues..

In the current study we have investigated the in vitro action of nanostructural systems (temozolomide encapsulated in chitosan and polymer nanostructures) on high-grade gliomaderived cancer stem cells (CSCs), with the intention of developing a new therapy to treat specific brain tumors with increased efficacy and minimal toxicity. In vitro cytotoxicity and apoptosis measurements indicated that the drug/vector combination facilitated the ability of the alkylating drug TMZ to alter the resistance of these cancer stem cells, suggesting a new chemotherapy strategy even for patients diagnosed with inoperable or recurrent malignant gliomas

Methods : At the National Institute for R & D of Isotopic and Molecular Technologies form Cluj Napoca were synthesized three types of nanostructures chitosan-TMZ, TMZ-chitosan-PEG (polyethylene glycol), TMZ-chitosan-PPG (polypropylene glycol). Three type of cell lines (Glioma-derived stem, HFL and HUVEC) were treated with the 3 types of nanostructures and the survival rate of the cells was compare to standard therapy (TMZ).

Results : The results showed a reduction in the rate of survival of the tumor cells. Cell proliferation assays clearly demonstrate the differences betweenconventional chemotherapy (TMZ) and temozolomide encapsulated in chitosan and polymer nanostructures.

Conclusion: Nanostructures like chitosan, PEG, PPG are useful as vectors for drugs transport. Despite combined therapy (surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy), currently median patient survival is reduced. The key to improving life expectancy could be an effective therapy targeted, customized for each case. An increasingly important role will be new methods of treatment such as immunotherapy, gene therapy or nanotherapy.
Clinical implications of internal carotid artery tortuosity, kinking and coiling: a systematic review
Authors: Zenteno M. , Viñuela F. , Moscote-Salazar L.R. , Alvis-Miranda H. , Zavaleta R. , Flores A. , Rojas A. , Lee A.
Published: April 2014

Anatomical variations of the internal carotid artery are diverse. Abnormalities in their geometry and paths are commonly identified by ultrasonography and angiography. The surgical correction of symptomatic CAs is better in preventing stroke compared with best medical therapy, as well as it completely eliminates the symptoms in patients with nonhemispheric symptoms. The ICA anomalies may be dangerous and represent a risk factor for massive bleeding. Suture ligatures can penetrate and occlude torn vessels, scalpels or biting instruments can lacerate vessels, and indirectly conducted electric cauterization can burn the soft of bony tissues
Transverse cervical skin incision and vertical platysma splitting approach for anterior cervical vertebral column exposure
Authors: Agrawal Amit , Malleswara Rao G.
Published: April 2014

Anterior surgical approaches provide direct access to symptomatic areas of the cervical spine, allow management of the vast spectrum of cervical spine pathologies and there are many articles in the literature that discussed these techniques in detail. Cosmesis is an important issue for patients who undergone surgeryon neck structures as an improperly placed incision attracting significant morbidity and few publications discuss this issue in details. The purpose of the present article is to describe our experience with transverse cervical skin incision and vertical platysma splitting approach for anterior cervical vertebral column exposure.
Thermal and snow conditions of winters and winter floods on example of Zagożdżonka River
Authors: Hejduk Agnieszka , Hejduk Leszek
Published: April 2014

Thermal and snow conditions of winters and winter floods on example of Zagożdżonka River. Thermal and snowy conditions in Zagożdżonka River catchment during hydrological years 2003-2013 and winter floods are presented in paper. The meteorological and hydrological data, such as maximum, minimum, mean diurnal air temperatures, daily snow cover depth, and water discharge, collected at Czarna station (WULS-SGGW) have been used. Meteorological conditions were analyzed using indexes proposed by Paczos. Temperate cold and extraordinarily low snowy winters has dominated in Zagożdżonka catchment in presented period of time. Winter floods as a result of snowmelt have been observed almost each year, except 2008 when winter was mild and extremely low snowy. The relation between winter severity index (WOz) and winter snowiness index (WSn) has been estimated, as well as the relation between winter snowiness index and maximum discharge (Qmax).
Extramammary Paget’s Disease in the Pubic Region: a Case Report
Authors: Stojanović Slobodan , Vučković Nada , Jeremić Pavle , Jeremić Biljana
Published: April 2014

The authors present a case of a patient with extramammary Paget’s disease in the pubic region treated by a dermatologist with a private practice for almost 4 years before incisional biopsy was performed. A thorough examination showed no evidence of malignancies of internal organs, whereas definite diagnosis was made by excision of the entire skin lesion and histopathological analysis. With regard to multiple criteria, findings in our patient were consistent with current literature data, but interestingly, the primary extramammary Paget’s disease has not spread into deeper tissues.
Cheilitis Glandularis Apostematosa in a Female Patient – a Case Report
Authors: Paravina Mirjana
Published: April 2014

Cheilitis is an inflammatory condition of the vermilion border of the lips, which is the junction between the skin and the mucosa. Cheilitis may arise as a primary disorder of the vermilion zone; the inflammation may extend from the nearby skin, or less often from the oral mucosa. Primary cheilitis lesions are either superficial or deep. Deep types include cheilitis glandularis (inflammatory changes and lip gland swelling), and granulomatous cheilitis (chronic swelling of the lip due to granulomatous inflammation mostly of unknown origin). Cheilitis glandularis is a rare condition that mostly affects the lower lip and it is characterized by nodular enlargement, reduced mobility and lip erosion. Based on clinical presentation, cheilitis glandularis may be classified into three subtypes: simplex (described as Puente and Acevedo), superficial suppurative (described by Baelz-Unna), and the most severe type - deep suppurative, also known as cheilitis glandularis apostematosa (Volkmann’s cheilitis) characterized by deep-seated inflammation forming abscesses and fistulous tracts. This is a case report of a female patient with a deep suppurative type of cheilitis affecting both lips. Treatment with systemic antibiotics (using antibiogram tests), corticosteroids and topical therapy resulted in significant improvement.
Perianal Allergic Contact Dermatitis from Benzocaine – a Case Report
Authors: Gergovska Malena , Semkova Kristina , Kazandjieva Jana , Tsankov Nikolay
Published: April 2014

A large number of contact allergic reactions to benzocaine have been reported since its introduction to the pharmaceutical market as an active ingredient in different over-the-counter anesthetic ointments. Benzocaine is used as a key ingredient in many pharmaceuticals, such as products for oral ulcers, wound and burn preparations, sunburn remedies, hemorrhoidal preparations, oral and gingival products, sore throat sprays/lozenges, callous and wart remedies, creams for treatment of poison ivy dermatitis, tooth ache and denture irritation products. We present a 56-year-old Caucasian male with chronic rash, accompanied by intense itching in the perianal area. The lesions occurred two months earlier and the patient was treated with a wide range of topical antifungals, antibiotics and corticosteroids, with temporary improvement. The skin lesions were consistent with chronic allergic contact dermatitis. The patient denied using any topical preparations other than those prescribed by his dermatologist. Patch testing with the European baseline series was performed. A strongly positive reaction to benzocaine was identified on reading days 2 and 3. Targeted history showed intermittent use of benzocaine anti-hemorrhoidal cream to treat concomitant hemorrhoids. Benzocaine was discontinued and treatment with methylprednisolone aceponate 0.1% was initiated, resulting in significant improvement. No relapse was observed at 3-month follow-up. In conclusion, patients with confirmed benzocaine allergy should pay special attention to product labels and avoid products that contain benzocaine and its related substances. All products labelled as “anaesthetic” or “caine” should be suspected of containing benzocaine or related compounds. Patient education and awareness are critical to avoid further episodes and relapses.
Common Biases in Density Estimation Based on Home Range Overlap with Reference to Pumas in Patagonia
Authors: Rinehart Kurt A. , Elbroch L. Mark , Wittmer Heiko U.
Published: April 2014

Density estimates are critical to proper population management and conservation, yet difficult to obtain for many wide‐ranging or cryptic species. One proven method used to quantify carnivore density, especially species difficult to individually identify from photos taken by camera traps, utilizes overlapping home ranges of individual animals in the study area. This method, however, may be particularly prone to residency and extrapolation biases. Residency bias occurs when the reference area for the density estimate is incorrect, and extrapolation bias occurs when scaling a density to a different spatial extent than that of the study area upon which the estimate was based. We used a simulation approach based on GPS locations to diagnose potential biases in published densities of pumas Puma concolor from Patagonia, where Franklin et al. 1999 (Biol. Conserv. 90: 33–40) reported ‘minimum’ densities of 6 and 30 pumas per 100 km2, and Elbroch and Wittmer 2012a (Mammal. Biol. 77: 377–384) reported densities of 3.4 pumas per 100 km2. Using GPS data from the latter study we tested methods described in Franklin et al. (1999) and compared their outcomes. Our results showed that density estimates that do not account for residency bias resulted in severely inflated density estimates. Our findings also indicated that actual densities from Franklin et al. (1999) might have been an order of magnitude lower than reported, and therefore consistent with puma densities reported across the range of the species. Both studies introduced extrapolation bias by translating linearly their estimates to new spatial extents, although the magnitude of this bias was much less than that of residency bias. Our results underscore the need for rigorous accounting of residential space in estimating population density, and highlight the scale‐dependency of density estimates.
Long-term disease and neurological outcomes in patients with pediatric intramedullary spinal cord tumors
Authors: Ahmed Raheel , Menezes Arnold H. , Awe Olatilewa O. , Torner James C.
Published: April 2014

Object

Radical resection is recommended as the first-line treatment for pediatric intramedullary spinal cord tumors (IMSCTs), but it is associated with morbidity, including risk of neurological decline and development of postoperative spinal deformity. The authors report long-term data on clinical and treatment determinants affecting disease survival and neurological outcomes.

Methods

Case records for pediatric patients (< 21 years of age at presentation) who underwent surgery for IMSCTs at the authors' institution between January 1975 and January 2010 were analyzed. The patients' demographic and clinical characteristics (including baseline neurological condition), the treatment they received, and their disease course were reviewed. Long-term disease survival and functional outcome measures were analyzed.

Results

A total of 55 patients (30 male and 25 female) were identified. The mean duration of follow-up (± SEM) was 11.4 ± 1.3 years (median 9.3 years, range 0.2–37.2 years). Astrocytomas were the most common tumor subtype (29 tumors [53%]). Gross-total resection (GTR) was achieved in 21 (38%) of the 55 patients. At the most recent follow-up, 30 patients (55%) showed neurological improvement, 17 (31%) showed neurological decline, and 8 (15%) remained neurologically stable. Patients presenting with McCormick Grade I were more likely to show functional improvement by final follow-up (p = 0.01) than patients who presented with Grades II–V. Kaplan-Meier actuarial tumor progression-free survival rates at 5, 10, and 20 years were 61%, 54%, and 44%, respectively; the overall survival rates were 85% at 5 years, 74% at 10 years, and 64% at 20 years. On multivariate analysis, GTR (p = 0.04) and tumor histological grade (p = 0.02) were predictive of long-term survival; GTR was also associated with improved 5-year progression-free survival (p = 0.01).

Conclusions

The prognosis for pediatric IMSCTs is favorable with sustained functional improvement expected in a significant proportion of patients on long-term follow-up. Long-term survival at 10 years (75%) and 20 years (64%) is associated with aggressive resection. Gross-total resection was also associated with improved 5-year progression-free survival (86%). Hence, the treatment benefits of GTR are sustained on extended follow-up.
Hoarding symptoms and prediction of poor response to limbic system surgery for treatment-refractory obsessive-compulsive disorder
Authors: Gentil Andre F. , Lopes Antonio C. , Dougherty Darin D. , Rück Christian , Mataix-Cols David , Lukacs Teagan L. , Canteras Miguel M. , Eskandar Emad N. , Larsson K. Johan , Hoexter Marcelo Q. , Batistuzzo Marcelo C. , Greenberg Benjamin D. , Miguel Euripedes C.
Published: April 2014

Object

Recent findings have suggested a correlation between obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) symptom dimensions and clinical outcome after limbic system surgery for treatment-refractory patients. Based on previous evidence that the hoarding dimension is associated with worse outcome in conventional treatments, and may have a neural substrate distinct from OCD, the authors examined a large sample of patients undergoing limbic surgery (40 with capsulotomy, 37 with cingulotomy) and investigated if symptom dimensions, in particular hoarding, could influence treatment outcome.

Methods

Data from 77 patients from 3 different research centers at São Paulo (n = 17), Boston (n = 37), and Stockholm (n = 23) were analyzed. Dimensional Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS; São Paulo) or Y-BOCS Symptom Checklist scores (Boston and Stockholm) were used to code the presence of 4 well-established symptom dimensions: forbidden thoughts, contamination/cleaning, symmetry/order, and hoarding. Reductions in YBOCS scores determined clinical outcome.

Results

Mean Y-BOCS scores decreased 34.2% after surgery (95% CI 27.2%–41.3%), with a mean follow-up of 68.1 months. Patients with hoarding symptoms had a worse response to treatment (mean Y-BOCS decrease of 22.7% ± 25.9% vs 41.6% ± 32.2%, respectively; p = 0.006), with no significant effect of surgical modality (capsulotomy vs cingulotomy). Patients with forbidden thoughts apparently also had a worse response to treatment, but this effect was dependent upon the co-occurrence of the hoarding dimension. Only the negative influence of the hoarding dimension remained when an ANOVA model was performed, which also controlled for preoperative symptom severity.

Conclusions

The presence of hoarding symptoms prior to surgery was associated with worse clinical outcome after the interventions. Patients with OCD under consideration for ablative surgery should be carefully screened for hoarding symptoms or comorbid hoarding disorder. For these patients, the potentially reduced benefits of surgery need to be carefully considered against potential risks.
Prognostic value of retinal nerve fiber layer thickness for postoperative peripheral visual field recovery in optic chiasm compression
Authors: Garcia Tony , Sanchez Stéphane , Litré Claude Fabien , Radoi Corina , Delemer Brigitte , Rousseaux Pascal , Ducasse Alain , Arndt Carl
Published: April 2014

Object

The authors' objective was to evaluate the predictive value of preoperative axonal loss for peripheral visual field recovery after surgery for optic chiasm compression.

Methods

Consecutive patients with optic chiasm compression in the period from October 2010 through August 2012 were retrospectively studied. Time-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT) had been performed before surgery. Kinetic automated perimetry had been performed before and after surgical decompression. The area of the peripheral isopter (square degrees [deg2]) was assessed. Postoperative improvement was defined as an increase of 25 deg2 or more.

Results

Sixty-eight eyes in 34 patients were included in the analysis. In 44 eyes the visual field improved after surgery, and in 24 eyes it was unchanged or worse. Nasal retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness was a good prognostic factor for peripheral visual field recovery (OR 1.56 per 15 μm, p = 0.041).

Conclusions

Peripheral visual field recovery after surgery for optic chiasm compression is predicted by nasal RNFL thickness, which is in accordance with the retinotopy of retinal ganglion cells, as nasal axons decussate at the optic chiasm.
Characterization of intratumor magnetic nanoparticle distribution and heating in a rat model of metastatic spine disease
Authors: Zadnik Patricia L. , Molina Camilo A. , Sarabia-Estrada Rachel , Groves Mari L. , Wabler Michele , Mihalic Jana , McCarthy Edward F. , Gokaslan Ziya L. , Ivkov Robert , Sciubba Daniel
Published: April 2014

Object

The goal of this study was to optimize local delivery of magnetic nanoparticles in a rat model of metastatic breast cancer in the spine for tumor hyperthermia while minimizing systemic exposure.

Methods

A syngeneic mammary adenocarcinoma was implanted into the L-6 vertebral body of 69 female Fischer rats. Suspensions of 100-nm starch-coated iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles (micromod Partikeltechnologie GmbH) were injected into tumors 9 or 13 days after implantation. For nanoparticle distribution studies, tissues were harvested from a cohort of 36 rats, and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and histopathological studies with Prussian blue staining were used to analyze the samples. Intratumor heating was tested in 4 anesthetized animals with a 20-minute exposure to an alternating magnetic field (AMF) at a frequency of 150 kHz and an amplitude of 48 kA/m or 63.3 kA/m. Intratumor and rectal temperatures were measured, and functional assessments of AMF-exposed animals and histopathological studies of heated tumor samples were examined. Rectal temperatures alone were tested in a cohort of 29 rats during AMF exposure with or without nanoparticle administration. Animal studies were completed in accordance with the protocols of the University Animal Care and Use Committee.

Results

Nanoparticles remained within the tumor mass within 3 hours of injection and migrated into the bone at 6, 12, and 24 hours. Subarachnoid accumulation of nanoparticles was noted at 48 hours. No evidence of lymphoreticular nanoparticle exposure was found on histological investigation or via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The mean intratumor temperatures were 43.2°C and 40.6°C on exposure to 63.3 kA/m and 48 kA/m, respectively, with histological evidence of necrosis. All animals were ambulatory at 24 hours after treatment with no evidence of neurological dysfunction.

Conclusions

Locally delivered magnetic nanoparticles activated by an AMF can generate hyperthermia in spinal tumors without accumulating in the lymphoreticular system and without damaging the spinal cord, thereby limiting neurological dysfunction and minimizing systemic exposure. Magnetic nanoparticle hyperthermia may be a viable option for palliative therapy of spinal tumors.
Adhesive arachnoiditis after percutaneous fibrin glue treatment of a sacral meningeal cyst
Authors: Hayashi Kazunori , Nagano Junji , Hattori Satoshi
Published: April 2014

The authors present the case of a 64-year-old woman who was referred for severe sacral pain. She reported that her pain had been longstanding, and had greatly increased after percutaneous fibrin glue placement therapy for a sacral meningeal cyst 2 months earlier at a different hospital. An MRI scan obtained immediately after fibrin glue placement at that hospital suggested that fibrin glue had migrated superiorly into the subarachnoid space from the sacral cyst to the level of L-4. On admission to the authors' institution, physical examination demonstrated no abnormal findings except for perianal hypesthesia. An MRI study obtained at admission demonstrated a cystic lesion in the peridural space from the level of S-2 to S-4. Inhomogeneous intensity was identified in this region on T2-weighted images. Because the cauda equina and nerve roots appeared to be compressed by the lesion, total cyst excision was performed. The cyst cavity was filled with fluid that resembled CSF, plus gelatinous material. Histopathological examination revealed that the cyst wall was composed of hyaline connective tissue with some calcification. No nervous tissue or ganglion cells were found in the tissue. The gelatinous material was acellular, and appeared to be degenerated fibrin glue. Sacral pain persisted to some extent after surgery. The authors presumed that migrated fibrin glue caused the development of adhesive arachnoiditis.

The risk of adhesive arachnoiditis should be considered when this therapy is planned. Communication between a cyst and the subarachnoid space should be confirmed to be sufficiently narrow to prevent the migration of injected fibrin glue.
Waldbauliche Massnahmen für das Auerhuhn im Sonderwaldreservat Amden: ein erstes Fazit
Authors: Bircher Nicolas , Bugmann Harald , Bollmann Kurt
Published: April 2014

Silvicultural habitat restoration measures for the capercaillie in the special forest reserve of Amden: a first review

As a threatened forest grouse species, the capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus) depends on conservation actions in core areas of its Alpine distribution. In this study, we looked at the species' response to silvicultural measures in the special forest reserve of Amden in the canton of St. Gallen, Switzerland. Here, silvicultural measures were taken between 2006 and 2009 in stands that had previously been classified as less or not suitable for capercaillie. In summer 2010, we investigated how stands used by the species differed from unused ones by relating indirect evidence of species presence with forest structural and compositional variables. Evidence of species' habitat use was found in 12 out of 33 surveyed stands. Used stands showed a significantly higher share of bilberry in the ground vegetation layer, a higher proportion of coniferous trees and a lower canopy cover. Furthermore, the proportion of suitable habitat in immediate vicinity of the treated forest stand was higher in used stands. Our results support that habitat restoration by logging is a promising method to improve capercaillie habitat, in particular in fir-spruce forests, where the effectivity of restoration measures was higher compared to fir-beech forests. Hence, managing guidance for the future selection of stands for restoration should be based on habitat suitability of the stand itself and on an appropriate habitat quality of adjacent forest stands.
Fakhr al-Dīn al-Rāzī on the Soul (al-nafs) and Spirit (al-rūḥ): An Investigation into the Eclectic Ideas ofMafātīḥ al-ghayb
Authors: Jaffer Tariq
Published: April 2014

This article aims to illustrate how al-Rāzī forges his doctrine on the soul in Mafātīḥ al-ghayb. It investigates al-Rāzī’s analysis of the soul's nature, its generation, and its attachment to the body by examining his exegesis of key Qur'anic verses. It analyses the ways that al-Rāzī interprets key cosmological terms from the Qur'an (including ‘soul’, ‘vital spirit’, ‘God's command’, and ‘power’), and provides examples of his practical application of taʾwīl to key Qur'anic verses. The article argues that al-Rāzī moulds ideas from ancient Greek Stoicism and Muʿtazilī theology into Mafātīḥ al-ghayb. By doing so, it illustrates that the hermeneutical device of taʾwīl was instrumental to the process through which al-Rāzī assimilated eclectic ideas from non-canonical sources into the worldview of Sunnism.
Questions and Communication: The Role of Questions in Sūrat al-Aʿrāf
Authors: Hammam Bilqasim
Published: April 2014

This article aims to cast light on one of the most important facets of the Qur'anic voice; the question. The significance of questions in the Qur'an, both explicit and implicit, lies in their role as primary movers in divine speech. Explicit and implicit questions feature abundantly throughout the Qur'an, and exegetes have endeavoured to elucidate each occurrence. They interpret the multiplicity of questions as resulting from the fact that the Qur'an does not respond to questions to the same extent as it raises them, presenting the believers with a questioning approach that they should follow in all aspects of their lives, and, likewise confronting the opponents of the prophets with clear signs through questioning. The latter type of question differs from the former in that it presents conclusive argumentation aiming to convince, and this is what we wish to concentrate on here. The Qur'anic discourse has a unique way of supporting its argumentation with linguistic and textual props, as will be addressed by this article in terms of the role of questions in Sūrat al-Aʿrāf.
Interactional power
Authors: Nolda Sigrid
Published: April 2014

Since the 1970s, various aspects of power have been at the focus of theoretical and empirical adult education research. Despite the actual interest in political and discursive aspects of power, this article emphasizes the importance of interactional studies when observing and identifying power based on various types of data. As for German interaction studies, three phases can be distinguished, characterized by a) observations of failed participation based on records of classroom behaviour, b) the identification of mutual power negotiation in classroom and counselling situations based on transcriptions, and c) the identification of the power of physical settings in adult education classrooms and in counselling sessions based on visual data. It is presumed that observing/identifying power in adult education classrooms and counselling sessions generally depends not only on the notions of power underlying the studies but also on the data types produced and the methods applied for their interpretation. In addition, the question is raised whether the identification of power can be considered a power practice used by adult education researchers.
Advanced Multi-Color Fluorescence Imaging System for Detection of Biotic and Abiotic Stresses in Leaves
Authors: Konanz Stefanie , Kocsányi László , Buschmann Claus
Published: April 2014

The autofluorescence of a sample is a highly sensitive and selective optical property and gives the possibility to establish non-destructive techniques of the investigation of plants, like detecting the chlorophyll fluorescence related to stress phenomena. In this study, an advanced multi-color fluorescence imaging system and data analysis were presented. The advantage of an imaging system is the additional receiving of spatial information over a sample area, this is a strong improvement compared to spot measurements commonly used. The purpose was to demonstrate the possibility of the detection and characterization of stress symptoms using this system. Specific fluorescence ratios were identified to characterize the stress status over the whole leaf, here shown on barley grown under different nitrogen supply (abiotic stress). Due to the changes, it is possible to make conclusions about leaf pigments (chlorophylls and phenolics) related to stress response. The second aim was to use the shape of local symptoms (biotic stress) as a criterion. For this purpose, three structural different kinds of fungal symptoms were analyzed using shape descriptors. It shows that an additional image shape analysis can be very useful for extracting further information, in this case the successful discrimination of fungal infections.
Role of Receptor Tyrosine Kinases and Their Ligands in Glioblastoma
Authors: Carrasco-García Estefanía , Saceda Miguel , Martínez-Lacaci Isabel
Published: April 2014

Glioblastoma multiforme is the most frequent, aggressive and fatal type of brain tumor. Glioblastomas are characterized by their infiltrating nature, high proliferation rate and resistance to chemotherapy and radiation. Recently, oncologic therapy experienced a rapid evolution towards “targeted therapy,” which is the employment of drugs directed against particular targets that play essential roles in proliferation, survival and invasiveness of cancer cells. A number of molecules involved in signal transduction pathways are used as molecular targets for the treatment of various tumors. In fact, inhibitors of these molecules have already entered the clinic or are undergoing clinical trials. Cellular receptors are clear examples of such targets and in the case of glioblastoma multiforme, some of these receptors and their ligands have become relevant. In this review, the importance of glioblastoma multiforme in signaling pathways initiated by extracellular tyrosine kinase receptors such as EGFR, PDGFR and IGF-1R will be discussed. We will describe their ligands, family members, structure, activation mechanism, downstream molecules, as well as the interaction among these pathways. Lastly, we will provide an up-to-date review of the current targeted therapies in cancer, in particular glioblastoma that employ inhibitors of these pathways and their benefits.
Reading and Language Disorders: The Importance of Both Quantity and Quality
Authors: Newbury Dianne , Monaco Anthony , Paracchini Silvia
Published: April 2014

Reading and language disorders are common childhood conditions that often co-occur with each other and with other neurodevelopmental impairments. There is strong evidence that disorders, such as dyslexia and Specific Language Impairment (SLI), have a genetic basis, but we expect the contributing genetic factors to be complex in nature. To date, only a few genes have been implicated in these traits. Their functional characterization has provided novel insight into the biology of neurodevelopmental disorders. However, the lack of biological markers and clear diagnostic criteria have prevented the collection of the large sample sizes required for well-powered genome-wide screens. One of the main challenges of the field will be to combine careful clinical assessment with high throughput genetic technologies within multidisciplinary collaborations.
Predictors of Prevention Failure in College Students Participating in Two Indicated Depression Prevention Programs
Authors: Blanco Vanessa , Rohde Paul , Vázquez Fernando , Otero Patricia
Published: April 2014

The purpose of this study was to identify subgroups of university students with the highest likelihood of remaining at elevated levels of depressive symptoms six months following the receipt of a depressive prevention intervention on the basis of known risk factors and participation in one of two depression prevention programs. Data from a randomized controlled trial evaluating depression prevention among 133 college students with elevated depressive symptoms were analyzed. Participants were randomized to a cognitive-behavioral or relaxation training group preventive intervention. Classification tree analysis showed that older age was the strongest risk factor for persistently elevated depression. Additional risk factors were: (1) for younger students, fewer daily pleasant activities; (2) for those with higher level of pleasant activities, higher level of stressful events; and (3) for those with higher level of stressful events, lower assertiveness. Results offer directions for prevention foci, identify specific subgroups of college students to target for depression prevention efforts, and suggest that research aim to help older, non-traditional students or graduating students manage the transition from college to the work force.