bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The drivers of innovation diffusion in agriculture: evidence from Italian census data
Authors: Avolio G. , Blasi E. , Cicatiello C. , Franco S.
Published: November 2014

Innovation is a key issue in the discussion about the links between agriculture, food production and sustainability. Indeed, the creation, adoption and exploitation of innovations can interact with all three dimensions of sustainability – environment, society and economy. Despite the increasing support for innovation practices in the agrifood sector from institutions and public policies, innovation in this sector has spread quite slowly. Indeed, the diffusion of innovations strongly depends on the social, institutional and productive system behind the technological/structural features of the farms. The analysis of the drivers underpinning the innovation diffusion dynamics in agriculture is therefore a very interesting topic for studies in this domain. This paper aims to provide a map of the diffusion of innovations in the Italian agricultural sector, highlighting differences and territorial specificities. We try to explain the drivers and factors influencing such specificities, drawing from data on the agricultural sector as well as information on the institutional and regulatory framework. Data on the diffusion of product, process, organizational and marketing innovations in agriculture have been gathered for the 110 Italian provinces, drawing from the 2010 Agricultural Census survey. Maps of the diffusion of the different types of innovations have then been constructed and analysed. Results show that the diffusion of the different innovation types is not uniform within the country. Some are typical to specific areas where productive or market opportunities occur. Others are not territorial-specific but are linked to the features of the single farms. The influence of the regulatory context also seems to play a significant role. By analysing the local expenditure in rural development intervention, we analyses how the synergies among the productive and institutional systems may act as a driver for innovation diffusion in agriculture.
The influence of the interplay of supply chain network relationships on farmers' performance in the Chilean NTAE sector
Authors: Otter V. , Engler A. , Theuvsen L.
Published: November 2014

With ongoing globalization, farmers in developing and transition countries are increasingly challenged by the complex organizational structure of international food supply chains. This study seeks to identify how the interplay of supply chain network relationships, which are determined by situational factors affecting farms and their business environment, influences farmers' performance. A theoretical framework is developed and empirically applied to data obtained from a standardized survey of 81 Chilean raspberry producers, 80 Chilean avocado producers and 80 Chilean table grape producers using partial least squares analysis. The results of the comparative analysis of the three producer groups reveal that supply chain network relationships in the Chilean raspberry, avocado and table grape sectors highly predict each other's and the farmers' performance. Thereby, the results do not differ greatly among the three supply chains. The results provide interesting implications, indicating that Chilean small and medium-sized farms but also large farmers can increase farm performance by connecting more closely with trading partners. Furthermore, the findings give governmental offices the opportunity to increase their support for farmers.
Explaining organizational diversity in emerging industries: the role of capabilities
Authors: Miranda B.V. , Chaddad F.R.
Published: November 2014

Is any firm able to internalize any transaction at any time? What explains changes in the vertical coordination strategy adopted by firms through time in a context of institutional and technological stability? This paper uses the example of an emerging wine region, the state of Missouri, to discuss the sources of organizational diversity. We analyse ten case studies of Missouri wineries to investigate the reasons why different organizational strategies are chosen by each firm. This outcome is observed although their managers have similar perceptions when it comes to optimal organizational choices. The fundamental idea developed in this paper is that organizational alignment is based not only on the characteristics of transactions and governance structures, but also on the features of the capabilities and resources owned by economic agents. Two main objectives are accomplished in this work: (1) a set of theoretical propositions is offered, providing a conceptual framework that can be used in other contexts; (2) the conclusions drawn here are compared with other contributions dealing with potentially related phenomena, such as the so-called plural forms.
Eco-innovation as a driver in the agri-food value chain: an empirical study on durum wheat in Italy
Authors: Blasi E. , Monotti C. , Ruini L. , Landi C. , Avolio G. , Meriggi P.
Published: November 2014

This research is a first attempt to assess the economic, social and environmental impacts related to the diffusion of an eco-innovation in the durum wheat sourcing and supply chain. Barilla Sustainable Farming is taken as a case study to describe the process of the introduction and diffusion of an innovative practice whose benefits could be transferred to all sourcing and supply chain actors. The eco-innovation is described and analysed, from its origin through its development into ‘theoretical’ and ‘in-field experimentations’, to get to the final empirical analysis (via focus groups), aimed at assessing the possible impact of the initiative in economic and environmental terms, as well as at understanding the main drivers of success of the eco-innovation in terms of increase in value across the sourcing and supply chain.
Research Education: Findings of a Study of Teaching–Learning Research Using Multiple Analytical Perspectives
Authors: Vandermause Roxanne , Barbosa-Leiker Celestina , Fritz Roschelle
Published: November 2014

This multimethod, qualitative study provides results for educators of nursing doctoral students to consider. Combining the expertise of an empirical analytical researcher (who uses statistical methods) and an interpretive phenomenological researcher (who uses hermeneutic methods), a course was designed that would place doctoral students in the midst of multiparadigmatic discussions while learning fundamental research methods. Field notes and iterative analytical discussions led to patterns and themes that highlight the value of this innovative pedagogical application. Using content analysis and interpretive phenomenological approaches, together with one of the students, data were analyzed from field notes recorded in real time over the period the course was offered. This article describes the course and the study analysis, and offers the pedagogical experience as transformative. A link to a sample syllabus is included in the article. The results encourage nurse educators of doctoral nursing students to focus educational practice on multiple methodological perspectives. [
J Nurs Educ.
2014;53(12):673–677.]
Integración de sensores medioambientales con BIM: casos de estudio usando Arduino, Dynamo, y Revit API
Authors: Kensek K. M.
Published: November 2014

Este estudio investiga la posibilidad de conectar sensores ambientales como de luz, humedad, o dióxido de carbono con un modelo de información de un edificio (siglas BIM en inglés). Un caso base fue creado en Rhino; usando Grasshopper and Firefly, donde un simple modelo digital respondió a niveles de luz detectados por un foto resistor en una tarjeta Arduino. El caso de estudio fue duplicado usando Revit Architecture, una herramienta popular en BIM, y Dynamo, un ambiente de programación gráfica, en una creativa aplicación. Un segundo caso de estudio siguió un procedimiento similar implementando Revit API directamente en vez de usar Dynamo. Entonces el proceso fue revertido para demostrar que no solamente la información podría ser enviada desde sensores para cambiar el modelo tridimensional, pero cambios en los parámetros de un modelo tridimensional podrían afectar un modelo físico mediante el uso de actuadores. Se espera que esos modelos virtuales puedan ser usados como base para probar sistemas de fachadas inteligentes antes de la construcción de modelos físicos de tamaño real.
Further evidence that monochamol is attractive toMonochamus(Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) species, with attraction synergised by host plant volatiles and bark beetle (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) pheromones
Authors: Ryall Krista , Silk Peter , Webster Reginald P. , Gutowski Jerzy M. , Meng Qingfan , Li Yan , Gao Wentao , Fidgen Jeff , Kimoto Troy , Scarr Taylor , Mastro Vic , Sweeney Jon D.
Published: November 2014

Monochamol (2-undecyloxy-1-ethanol) is a male-produced aggregation pheromone for severalMonochamusDejean (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) species. We conducted trapping experiments in Canada, Poland, and China to test whether monochamol was attractive to additionalMonochamusspecies and if attraction was synergised by plant volatiles and bark beetle (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) pheromones. We provide the first evidence of attraction forM. urussovii(Fischer) andM. saltuarius(Gebler) to monochamol or monochamol+kairomones. The highest numbers ofM. urussoviiwere captured in traps baited with monochamol+plant volatiles (Manuka oil, ethanol and (95/5±) α−pinene). Captures ofM. saltuariuswere highest in traps baited with monochamol, with the addition of cubeb oil tending to reduce captures. The highest numbers ofM. scutellatus(Say) were captured in traps baited with monochamol+kairomones. A similar pattern in trap captures was found forM. notatus(Drury),M. marmoratorKirby,M. carolinensis(Olivier), andM. mutatorLeConte. Detection rates, that is, proportion of traps capturing at least one specimen, was highest for traps baited with monochamol plus kairomones, particularly for less-common species. These results support the emerging hypothesis that pheromone compounds can attract related cerambycid species with cumulative evidence for attraction to monochamol for 12 species ofMonochamusworldwide.
Technique and Role of Embolization Using Ethylene Vinyl-Alcohol Copolymer before Carotid Body Tumor Resection
Authors: Thakkar Rajiv , Qazi Umair , Kim Young , Fishman Elliot K. , Veith Frank J. , Malas Mahmoud B.
Published: November 2014

A 45-year old female referred for a large carotid body tumor resection. The tumor was encasing the internal (ICA) and external carotid arteries (ECA). She underwent angiogram and embolization of the ascending pharyngeal artery and a distal branch of the ECA using ethylene vinyl-alcohol copolymer (EVOH). Two days later, surgical resection of the tumor with regional lymph node dissection was performed along with an interposition reversed vein graft anastomosis between the mid common carotid and distal ICA. Carotid body tumor devascularization of the tumor can be performed using EVOH delivered through transarterial and percutaneous routes. Embolization may facilitate surgical resection and decrease blood loss but does not decrease the rate of neurological complications. Embolization can be performed by the vascular surgeon before a large carotid body tumor resection with minimal migration and or stroke risk.
Late Differentiation Syndrome in Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia: A Challenging Diagnosis
Authors: Cabral Renata , Caballero Juan Carlos , Alonso Sara , Dávila Julio , Cabrero Monica , Caballero Dolores , Vásquez Lourdes , Sánchez-Guijo Fermin , López Lucia , Cañizo Maria C. , Mateos Maria V. , González Marcos
Published: November 2014

Detailed knowledge about differentiation syndrome (DS) has remained limited. There are 2 large studies conducted by the Spanish workgroup PETHEMA (Programa Español de Tratamientos en Hematología; Spanish Program on Hematology Treatments) and the European group trial (LPA 96-99 and APL 93) in which the incidence, characteristics, prognostic factors and outcome of patients developing DS are evaluated. Both have described the median time of DS development between 10 and 12 days. The severity of the DS has been evaluated in the study conducted by PETHEMA, and severe DS usually occurs at the beginning of the treatment (median of 6 days), as compared with moderate DS (median of 15 days). We report here in two cases of late severe DS, with late diagnosis due to both time and form of presentation. We discuss the physiopathology, clinical presentation, prophylaxis and treatment of DS.
Sensitivity of 3D gradient recalled echo susceptibility-weighted imaging technique compared to computed tomography angiography for detection of middle cerebral artery thrombus in acute stroke
Authors: Agarwal Amit , Vijay Kanupriya , Thamburaj Krishnamoorthy , Kanekar Sangam , Kalapos Paul
Published: November 2014

We aimed at comparing the sensitivity of magnetic resonance (MR) susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI) with computed tomography angiography (CTA) in the detection of middle cerebral artery (MCA) thrombus in acute stroke. Seventy-nine patients with acute MCA stroke was selected using our search engine software; only the ones showing restricted diffusion in the MCA territory on diffusion-weighted images were included. We finally selected 35 patients who had done both MRI (including SWI) and CTA. Twenty random subjects with completely normal MRI (including SWI) exam were selected as control. Two neuroradiologists (blinded to the presence or absence of stroke) reviewed the SW images and then compared the findings with CT angiogram (in patients with stroke). The number of MCA segments showing thrombus in each patient was tabulated to estimate the thrombus burden. Thrombus was detected on SWI in one or more MCA segments in 30 out of 35 patients, on the first review. Of the 30, SWI showed thrombus in more than one MCA segments in 7 patients. CTA depicted branch occlusion in 31 cases. Thrombus was seen on both SWI and CTA in 28 patients. Thrombus was noted in two patients on SWI only, with no corresponding abnormality seen on CTA. Two patients with acute MCA showed no vascular occlusion or thrombus on either CTA or SWI. Only two case of false-positive thrombus was reported in normal control subjects. Susceptibility-weighted images had sensitivity and specificity of 86% and 90% respectively, with positive predictive value 94%. Sensitivity was 86% for SWI, compared with 89% for CTA, and this difference was statistically insignificant (P>0.05). Of all the positive cases on CTA (31) corresponding thrombus was seen on SWI in 90% of subjects (28 of 31). Susceptibility-weighted imaging has high sensitivity for detection of thrombus in acute MCA stroke. Moreover, SWI is a powerful technique for estimation of thrombus burden, which can be challenging on CTA.
Hematuria in puerperium: an obstetrician’s nightmare
Authors: Chauhan Meenakshi B. , Sangwan Vijeyata , Malhotra Vani , Nanda Smiti , Bhuria Vandana
Published: November 2014

Hematuria in the peripartum period can be a diagnostic dilemma. A series of three rare cases of peripartum hematuria have been reported. All the cases recovered with conservative treatment. Peripartum hematuria can be idiopathic. Intravenous pyelography is the investigation of choice to find out the cause. Conservative approach remains the main stay of treatment.
Factors influencing e-collaboration for knowledge development and innovation
Authors: Lavhengwa Tendani J. , Van der Walt Jacobus S. , Lavhengwa Eve M.
Published: November 2014

Background: Knowledge development and innovation are at the heart of the progress of academic and research institutions (ARIs) through individual and coordinated research projects. Collaboration initiatives remain a challenge for many researchers for a myriad of reasons which are further intensified by the many technology options that are available both freely and at varying prices. Although multiple theories were considered, the focus on electronic communication supported by the interest in how innovation is diffused and the richness of media motivated the focus on diffusion of innovations (DOI) and media richness theory (MRT).Objectives: The objective was to develop a multi-dimensional matrix of e-collaboration factors for research institutions. This study investigated collaboration by ARIs while focusing on the supporting and enabling technologies.Method: The grounded theory method (GTM) was adopted. E-collaboration literature was reviewed followed by data collection using observations, interviews and a blog. DOI and MRT were considered as theories that assist in the implementation of collaboration. A blog was developed as an e-collaboration platform to examine the emergent ideas and to collect data. Data was analysed through the coding method which led to the development of the multi-dimensional e-collaboration factors matrix.Results: The findings reveal that e-collaboration has multiple factors that must be considered. Collaboration by participants was improved through knowledge development and innovation.Conclusion: The multi-dimensional matrix of e-collaboration factors presented collaborators with a checklist that will enhance and improve their work. ARIs continue to collaborate at multiple levels depending on their needs and objectives.
Innovation capability of managers in Nigerian large-scale manufacturing companies
Authors: Popoola Sunday O. , Fagbola Olaronke O.
Published: November 2014

Background: Manufacturing companies in Nigeria operate in a turbulent business environment and managers therein need quality information to operate with keen market competition. Information seeking behavior and use as well as knowledge sharing are critical ingredients to enhance innovation capability of managers in business organisations like manufacturing companies for survival.Objectives: This study examines the contributions of information-seeking behaviour, information utilation and knowledge sharing to the prediction of the innovation capability of managers in large-scale manufacturing companies in Nigeria with special reference to the food, beverages and tobacco companies.Method: A total enumeration technique was used to administer copies of a questionnaire to a population of 400 managers in 12 food, beverages and tobacco companies that are listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange. Of these, 357 responded. The response rate achieved was 89.3%.Results: The study found that there were significant multiple relationships between information-seeking behaviour, information utilisation, knowledge sharing and the innovation capability of the respondents. It was also found that information-seeking behaviour, information utilisation and knowledge sharing jointly and individually predict the innovation capability of the respondents. In addition, information-seeking behaviour contributed 22.18%, information utilisation contributed 44.12%, and knowledge sharing contributed 40.88% to the prediction of innovation capability of managers in food, beverages and tobacco companies in Nigeria. The study equally found that, apart from the traditional ways of sharing knowledge in organisations, social media technology such as Facebook and Twitter, amongst others, are new ways of sharing knowledge in large-scale manufacturing companies in Nigeria.Conclusion: The study recommends that managers in these companies should be encouraged to seek for more information, make more intensive use of information and share knowledge in order to improve their innovation capability.
Developing a secured social networking site using information security awareness techniques
Authors: Okesola Julius O. , Grobler Marthie
Published: November 2014

Background: Ever since social network sites (SNS) became a global phenomenon in almost every industry, security has become a major concern to many SNS stakeholders. Several security techniques have been invented towards addressing SNS security, but information security awareness (ISA) remains a critical point. Whilst very few users have used social circles and applications because of a lack of users’ awareness, the majority have found it difficult to determine the basis of categorising friends in a meaningful way for privacy and security policies settings. This has confirmed that technical control is just part of the security solutions and not necessarily a total solution. Changing human behaviour on SNSs is essential; hence the need for a privately enhanced ISA SNS.Objective: This article presented sOcialistOnline – a newly developed SNS, duly secured and platform independent with various ISA techniques fully implemented.Method: Following a detailed literature review of the related works, the SNS was developed on the basis of Object Oriented Programming (OOP) approach, using PhP as the coding language with the MySQL database engine at the back end.Result: This study addressed the SNS requirements of privacy, security and services, and attributed them as the basis of architectural design for sOcialistOnline. SNS users are more aware of potential risk and the possible consequences of unsecured behaviours.Conclusion: ISA is focussed on the users who are often the greatest security risk on SNSs, regardless of technical securities implemented. Therefore SNSs are required to incorporate effective ISA into their platform and ensure users are motivated to embrace it.
Using the cloud to provide telemedicine services in a developing country
Authors: Cilliers Liezel
Published: November 2014

Background: According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) ‘Telemedicine is the use of medical information exchanged from one site to another via communications to improve a patient’s health’. Despite the documented advantages of telemedicine, especially in developing countries, the implementation of this technology has been slow, with most projects not succeeding past the pilot phase.Objectives: The aim of the article is to provide critical success factors (CSF) that will enable the deployment of telemedicine in the cloud in order to improve health care services in developing countries.Methods: A thorough literature review was performed of peer reviewed articles in order to identify possible barriers for telemedicine to be deployed in the cloud. Furthermore, the Technology Organization Environmental Model was used in order to group the barriers according to the various factors and, from this process, critical success factors were formulated for consideration.Conclusion: Five critical success factors were formulated in order to implement telemedicine making use of the cloud in developing countries. These include having a national integrated plan for telemedicine; promoting best practices within a legislation framework; involving the end user; providing education to improve levels of telemedicine awareness amongst staff and patients, and addressing technological issues.
Information and communications technology adoption amongst township micro and small business: The case of Soweto
Authors: Marnewick Carl
Published: November 2014

Background: No empirical evidence is available on whether or not information and communications technology (ICT) is adopted by South African township micro and small businesses (MSBs) in order to grow the business. ICT, as an enabler, can grow the business. It is evident from literature that ICT enables MSBs to be more productive and efficient.Objectives: This research determines to what extent ICT is adopted by MSBs in Soweto, and whether or not a positive correlation exists between the adoption rate of ICT and the financial and growth performance of the MSB itself.Method: A structured questionnaire was completed by 978 respondents to determine the extent of ICT adoption and for what ICT is used. This exploratory research provides new knowledge about the acceptance of ICT within township MSBs.Results: The results indicate that ICT is not used to the fullest by MSBs. Rather, it is used as a basic tool for doing business but it does not form an integral part of the business. This research provides insight into the usage and adoption of ICT and it opens the door for further cross-analysis research.Conclusion: Education and training are needed to ensure that MSBs use ICT to the fullest. MSBs embracing ICT can evolve from a survivalist SME to a more sustainable micro and small MSB.
Long-tunneled versus short-tunneled external ventricular drainage: Prospective experience from a developing country
Authors: Tahir Muhammad , Sobani Zain , Murtaza Muhammed , Enam Syed
Published: November 2014

Background: External ventricular drains (EVD) are commonly utilized for temporary diversion of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Many neurosurgeons prefer long-tunneled EVDs in their routine practice. However, it is still unclear whether this extended tunneling helps in reducing CSF infection. Keeping this in mind, we decided to compare infection rates in long-tunneled versus short-tunneled EVDs in the setting of a developing country. Materials and Methods: A prospective study of 60 patients was conducted. Consenting patients who underwent short-tunneled (Group A) or long-tunneled (Group B) EVDs between January 2008 and June 2009 were followed during the course of their inpatient care. All operational protocol was standardized during the trial. Serial samples of CSF were analyzed to detect infection. Results: Mean age of patients was 33.6 years with 32 males (53.3%). Mean duration of long-tunneled EVD was 13.4 ± 7.2 days, whereas that of short-tunneled EVD was 5.3 ± 2.7 days (P < 0.001). Three patients with long-tunneled EVD (10.0%), whereas one patient with short-tunneled EVD (3.3%) developed drain-related infections; however, this was non-significant (P = 0.301). However, patients with short-tunneled EVD got infected earlier on day 3when compared with the long-tunneled EVDs, which got infected after a mean duration of 7.3 days. The overall risk of infection for long-tunneled EVDs was 7.46 per 1,000 ventricular drainage days which was comparable to the risk of 6.33 per 1,000 ventricular drainage days seen for short-tunneled EVDs. Conclusion: Long-tunneled EVDs appear to only delay potential infections without having any effect on the actual risk of infection. Long-tunneled EVD in a resource-limited setting is technically challenging and may not yield additional benefits to the patient. However, larger and prospective studies are needed to establish the rate of infections and other complications.
Intramedullary arachnoid cyst in an adult: Case report and review
Authors: Alugolu Rajesh , Arradi Vamshidhar , Sahu B
Published: November 2014

Arachnoid cysts in the spine are a rare entity with extradural occurrence being the commonest. Arachnoid cysts in intramedullary location are sparingly reported in elderly. We herein report a case of intramedullary arachnoid cyst in an adult female who presented with features of compressive myelopathy.
Spontaneous recovery of post-traumatic acute bilateral facial and abducens nerve palsy
Authors: Salunke Pravin , Madhivanan Karthigeyan , Kamali Nasib , Garg Ravi
Published: November 2014

Bilateral abducens and facial palsy following head injury are extremely rare. We present a patient with post-traumatic bilateral facial and abducens palsy. There were bitemporal fractures that did not correspond with the facial canal. Despite complete facial palsy with axonal degeneration and > 90% facial muscle degenervation, conservative management helped. This report highlights the importance of conservative management in post-traumatic complete facial palsy especially when the fracture line does not correspond with the facial canal.
Leukocytosis after routine cranial surgery: A potential marker for brain damage in intracranial surgery
Authors: Agrawal Deepak , Kurwale Nilesh , Sharma Bhawani
Published: November 2014

Aims and Objectives: Leukocytosis after intracranial surgery may create concern about possible infection, especially when associated with fever. Knowledge of the expected degree of leukocytosis after surgery would assist in the interpretation of leukocytosis. It was hypothesized that the degree of leukocytosis after intracranial surgery correlated with the extent of brain damage inflicted during the surgery. Materials and Methods: In this prospective study conducted over 6 months, consecutive patients undergoing either elective resections of brain tumors (having significant collateral brain damage) or aneurysm clipping (with minimal collateral brain damage) were studied. Total blood leukocyte count was checked daily in the morning for the first five postoperative days in both the groups. The mean of the leukocyte count ratio (postoperative leukocyte count/preoperative leukocyte count) on each day was calculated for each group. Results: There were 76 patients, 46 in the test group and 30 controls. Both groups were well matched in age, sex, duration of surgery, and intraoperative fluid balance. The mean leukocyte count ratio on POD1 in the tumor group was significantly higher (1.87) as compared to 1.1 in the aneurysm group (P = 0.001). This difference in the leukocyte count ratio between the groups was maintained on the second and third postoperative days, with decreasing level of significance after the third day. Conclusions: This study shows that intraoperative brain injury is associated with leukocytosis in the immediate postoperative period. This can assist in the interpretation of leukocytosis after intracranial surgeries and could be a quantitative marker for brain injury in patients undergoing intracranial surgery.
Outcome in 2068 patients of head injury: Experience at a level 1 trauma centre in India
Authors: Agrawal Deepak , Ahmed S , Khan S , Gupta D , Sinha S , Satyarthee G
Published: November 2014

Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is one of the leading causes of death. Evidence-based guidelines for TBI care have been widely discussed, but in-hospital treatment and outcome of these patients has been highly variable especially in developing countries like India.
Objectives: To evaluate the epidemiology and outcome of patients with head injuries at a Level 1 trauma center in India. Materials and Methods: In this retro-prospective study, all patients with head injury who were admitted in the department of neurosurgery over a 15 months period (November 2007-January 2009) were included in the study. Post-resuscitation GCS was used for categorizing the severity of head injuries and outcome was assessed at discharge using GOS. All patients were managed as per laid down departmental protocols. Results: A total of 2068 patients of head injury were admitted during the study period. The mean age was 24 years (range 1-85). 71.4% were male and 28.6% were female. The most commonly involved age group was 20-40 years (43%) and the most common mode of injury was road traffic accidents (64%). 53% of the patients had severe head injury (GCS ≤ 8), 18% had moderate head injury (GCS 9 ≤ 13) and 29% had minor head injuries (GCS ≥ 14). The mean hospital stay was 14 days (range 1-62 days). Overall in-hospital mortality was 22% (454 cases). 39% died within 48 hours of injury. 2% of minor, 12% of moderate and 36% of severe head injured patients expired; Mortality was 38% in children (≤12 years). Amongst those who survived, 45% had good outcome (GOS 4 or 5), 13% were severely disabled (GOS 3) and 19% were vegetative (GOS 2). Conclusions: This is the one of the largest single center study on severe head injuries and shows enormity of the problem facing developing countries like India.
Primary intracranial lymphomas
Authors: Mufti Shagufta , Baeesa Saleh , Al-Maghrabi Jaudah
Published: November 2014

Background: Primary CNS lymphoma (PCNSL), a rare form of aggressive extranodal non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL), has increased in incidence during the last three decades and occurs in both immune compromised and immune competent hosts. It has an overall poor prognosis.
Objective: This study attempts to further delineate the clinico-pathological, immunohistochemical and radiological profile of PCNSL at Jeddah to King Faisal Hospital and Research Center.
Methods: Computerized search through the archives of King Faisal Hospital and Research Centre between July 2000- December 2012 identified 15 patients with pathologically confirmed PCNSL.These were analyzed retrospectively. Their clinico-pathological, immunohistochemical and radiological data were analyzed. Results: Of the 15 PCNSL patients, 8 (53.3%) were females and 7 (46.6%) were males. There was female predilection especially in the age group of 40-59 years. Mean age at diagnosis for all patients was 50.4 years. There was no patient in the pediatric age group. The most common location in the brain was the frontal region in 7 patients (46.6%), 7 (46.6%) had multiple intracranial masses; all 15 (100%) were Non Hodgkin B-cell lymphomas, among which 13 (86.6%) were diffuse large B-cell lymphomas. All 15 (100%) cases showed diffuse and strong positivity for CD 45, and CD 20. Fourteen patients were immune competent while one was immune compromised. Conclusions: PCNSL often occurs in middle-aged and aged patients. There is female predilection especially in the middle age. Frontal region is the most common location with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma being the predominant subtype.
Lymphoplasmacyte-rich meningioma with invasion of bone: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Kurmi Dhruba , Sharma Achal , Mittal R , Singhvi Shashi
Published: November 2014

Lymphoplasmacyte-rich (LPR) meningioma is a rare variant of meningioma, which is characterized by conspicuous infiltration of plasma cells and lymphocytes and a variable proportion of meningothelial elements, and is classified as a grade I tumor in World Health Organization (WHO) classification of tumors of central nervous system. The origin and biological behavior of this rare variant of meningioma is still not clear. Till date, very few cases of LPR meningioma have been reported globally. Here, we are presenting a case of right parietal convexity LPR meningioma with invasion of bone in a 32-year-old male patient, who presented to us with complaints of focal seizures and weakness in left upper limb.
Ganglioglioma of conus medullaris in a patient of neurofibromatosis type 1: A novel association?
Authors: Sundar Ilangovan , Jaiswal Manish , Purohit Devendra , Mittal R
Published: November 2014

Ganglioglioma of the conus region is quite rare with only 12 reported cases. Ganglioglioma shares biologic features with neurofibromatosis leading to suggestions that the co-existence of the two diseases may be more than coincidental. We report a case of ganglioglioma of the conus medullaris in a patient of neurofibromatosis and explore the possible association of the two diseases.
Management of unusual dysplastic gangliocytoma of the cerebellum (Lhermitte-Duclos disease) in a developing country: Case report and review of the literature
Authors: Golden Nyoman , Tjokorda Mahadewa , Sri Maliawan , Niryana Wayan , Herman Saputra
Published: November 2014

Dysplastic cerebellar gangliocytoma or Lhermitte-Duclos disease (LDD) especially in children are extremely rare. In this report we add one further case to this rare entity. A three year old boy with a history of cerebellar and brain stem compression signs was presented in unconscious condition. Computerized tomography (CT) scan revealed a well defined lesion mixed with area of calcification in the right cerebellum and severe obstructive hydrocephalus. Ventricular shunting was performed followed by gross total tumor removal three days after shunting. In the follow up period, the patient showed almost total resolution of all neurological deficits. MRI has been an imaging tool to preoperatively diagnose this disease; otherwise it would be uncertain preoperative diagnosis. However, in this report we would like to emphasize that not all uncertain diagnosis of LDD leads to palliative treatment. Well demarcated lesion may account for the safe surgical resection of this disease.
Tiger hide appearance: Impaction and prolapse of brain parenchyma through burr holes after evacuation of bilateral chronic subdural hematoma: A rare case report
Authors: Jaiswal Manish , Gandhi Ashok , Purohit Devendra , Mittal R
Published: November 2014

Burr hole evacuation of chronic subdural hematoma (SDH) with or without drainage system is the most common surgical method among various techniques. There are various complications of burr hole drainage evacuation of chronic SDH, but there is no case report regarding impaction and prolapse of brain parenchyma through burr hole as a complication. Herewith, we are reporting a case of bilateral chronic SDH with prolapse of brain parenchyma through burr holes. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of brain showed a characteristic look and we named it “Tiger hide appearance”. We failed to find such characteristic appearance in MRI brain on reviewing the available literature.
The role of subgaleal suction drain placement in chronic subdural hematoma evacuation
Authors: Yadav Yad , Parihar Vijay , Chourasia Ishwar , Bajaj Jitin , Namdev Hemant
Published: November 2014

Introduction: There is lack of uniformity about the preferred surgical treatment, role of drain, and type of drain among various surgeons in chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH). The present study is aimed to evaluate role of subgaleal drain. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective study of 260 patients of CSDH treated surgically. Burr-hole irrigation with and without suction drain was done in 140 and 120 patients, respectively. Out of 120 patients without suction drain 60 each were managed by single and two burr holes. Pre- and postoperative GCS was recorded. Recurrent hematomas, CSDH secondary to tumor, due to intracranial hypotension, coagulopathy, children below 18 years, and patients treated by twist drill craniostomy or craniotomy were excluded. Subgaleal closed-system drainage with low negative pressure was used. Results: Age of the patients ranged from 18 to 75 years with mean age of 57 years. There were 9, 47, 204 patients in GCS of 3-8, 9-12, and 13-15, respectively. Both the groups were comparable in terms of age, etiology, gender, and neurological status. There was no difference in the mortality in both the group. The recurrence and postoperative pneumocephalus was significantly less in suction drain group as compared to without drain group. There was no infection or any other complication related to suction drainage. Conclusion: Subgaleal closed suction drainage was safe, simple, and effective in the management of CSDH. Recurrence rate was low in the suction drain group.
Role of endoscopic third ventriculostomy in tuberculous meningitis with hydrocephalus
Authors: Yadav Yad , Parihar Vijay , Todorov Mina , Kher Yatin , Chaurasia Ishwar , Pande Sonjjay , Namdev Hemant
Published: November 2014

Hydrocephalus is one of the commonest complications of tuberculous meningitis (TBM). It can be purely obstructive, purely communicating, or due to combinations of obstruction in addition to defective absorption of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) as an alternative to shunt procedures is an established treatment for obstructive hydrocephalus in TBM. ETV in TBM hydrocephalus can be technically very difficult, especially in acute stage of disease due to inflamed, thick, and opaque third ventricle floor. Water jet dissection can be helpful in thick and opaque ventricular floor patients, while simple blunt perforation is possible in thin and transparent floor. Lumbar peritoneal shunt is a better option for communicating hydrocephalus as compared to VP shunt or ETV. Intraoperative Doppler or neuronavigation can help in proper planning of the perforation to prevent neurovascular complications. Choroid plexus coagulation with ETV can improve success rate in infants. Results of ETV are better in good grade patients. Poor results are observed in cisternal exudates, thick and opaque third ventricle floor, acute phase, malnourished patients as compared to patients without cisternal exudates, thin and transparent third ventricle floor, chronic phase, well-nourished patients. Some of the patients, especially in poor grade, can show delayed recovery. Failure to improve after ETV can be due to blocked stoma, complex hydrocephalus, or vascular compromise. Repeated lumbar puncture can help faster normalization of the raised intracranial pressure after ETV in patients with temporary defect in CSF absorption, whereas lumbar peritoneal shunt is required in permanent defect. Repeat ETV is recommended if the stoma is blocked. ETV should be considered as treatment of choice in chronic phase of the disease in obstructive hydrocephalus.
Intraventricular glioblastoma multiforme mimicking meningioma and review of the literature
Authors: Patnaik Ashis , Mishra Sudhansu , Senapati Satya
Published: November 2014

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common primary brain tumor and is usually found in aged persons in the cerebral hemispheres particularly the frontotemporal region. But intraventricular GBM is rare and only few cases have been reported in the literature. We report a case of a 27-year-old man who presented with headache, vision loss in both eyes, and other signs and symptoms of increased intracranial pressure. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging showed an intraventricular, well-circumscribed lesion with homogeneous enhancement of contrast, suggestive of meningioma that is more common than GBM in this location. The patient underwent surgical removal through transcortical route. The final pathologic diagnosis was GBM. We present the clinical features, radiological findings, and surgical management of this case and discuss the pathogenesis and review of the literature of intraventricular GBM.
To Be Perceived as Altruistic: Strategic Considerations That Support Fair Behavior in the Dictator Game
Authors: Hashimoto Hirofumi , Mifune Nobuhiro , Yamagishi Toshio
Published: November 2014

We successfully replicated Dana, Cain, and Dawes’ study (2006) using a dictator game with an exit option with a Japanese sample. The exit option allowed the dictator to leave the recipient with nothing by paying a small fee, while also ensuring that the recipient never noticed that the dictator game was being played. If the dictator was motivated by fairness, or even self-interest, there would be no reason to choose the exit option. However, our study, as well as the original study, demonstrated that approximately 40% of participants chose the exit option. Based on these results, we argue that the altruistic behavior exhibited during the standard dictator game represents a default strategy for reputation management.
Lidar observation of the 2011 Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic aerosols at Lauder, New Zealand
Authors: Nakamae K. , Uchino O. , Morino I. , Liley B. , Sakai T. , Nagai T. , Yokota T.
Published: November 2014

Abstract. On 4 June 2011, the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex (40.6° S, 72.1° W) in Chile erupted violently and injected volcanic aerosols into the atmosphere. For the safety of civil aviation, continuous lidar observations were made at Lauder, New Zealand (45.0° S, 169.7° E), from 11 June through 6 July 2011. The purpose of our study is to quantify the influence of the volcanic ejections from large eruptions, and we use the data from the ground-based lidar observation. We analyzed lidar data at a wavelength of 532 nm and derived the backscattering ratio and depolarization ratio profiles. During June and July, within the altitude range of 10–15 km, the volcanic aerosols had high depolarization ratios (20–35%), an indication of non-spherical volcanic ash particles. The time series of the backscattering ratio during continuous observations had three peaks occurring at about 12-day intervals: 26.7 at 11.2 km on 11 June, 18.1 at 12.0 km on 23 June, and 5.3 at 11.1 km on 6 July. The optical depth of the volcanic aerosols was 0.45 on 11 June, when the continuous lidar observation started, 0.31 on 23 June, and 0.12 on 6 July. The depolarization ratio values remained high up to a month after the eruption, and the small wavelength exponent calculated from the backscattering coefficients at 532 nm and 1064 nm suggests that a major constituent of the volcanic aerosols was large, non-spherical particles. The presence of volcanic ash in the stratosphere might affect the error in Greenhouse gases Observing SATellite (GOSAT) XCO2 retrieval using the 1.6 μm band. We briefly discuss the influence of the increased aerosols on GOSAT products.
Reactivity of stabilized Criegee intermediates (sCIs) from isoprene and monoterpene ozonolysis toward SO2 and organic acids
Authors: Sipilä M. , Jokinen T. , Berndt T. , Richters S. , Makkonen R. , Donahue N. M. , Mauldin III R. L. , Kurtén T. , Paasonen P. , Sarnela N. , Ehn M. , Junninen H. , Rissanen M. P. , Thornton J. , Stratmann F. , Herrmann H. , Worsnop D. R. , Kulmala M. , Kerminen V.-M. , Petäjä T.
Published: November 2014

Abstract. Oxidation processes in Earth's atmosphere are tightly connected to many environmental and human health issues and are essential drivers for biogeochemistry. Until the recent discovery of the atmospheric relevance of the reaction of stabilized Criegee intermediates (sCIs) with SO2, atmospheric oxidation processes were thought to be dominated by a few main oxidants: ozone, hydroxyl radicals (OH), nitrate radicals and, e.g. over oceans, halogen atoms such as chlorine. Here, we report results from laboratory experiments at 293 K and atmospheric pressure focusing on sCI formation from the ozonolysis of isoprene and the most abundant monoterpenes (α-pinene and limonene), and subsequent reactions of the resulting sCIs with SO2 producing sulfuric acid (H2SO4). The measured total sCI yields were (0.15 ± 0.07), (0.27 ± 0.12) and (0.58 ± 0.26) for α-pinene, limonene and isoprene, respectively. The ratio between the rate coefficient for the sCI loss (including thermal decomposition and the reaction with water vapour) and the rate coefficient for the reaction of sCI with SO2, k(loss) /k(sCI + SO2), was determined at relative humidities of 10 and 50%. Observed values represent the average reactivity of all sCIs produced from the individual alkene used in the ozonolysis. For the monoterpene-derived sCIs, the relative rate coefficients k(loss) / k(sCI + SO2) were in the range (2.0–2.4) × 1012 molecules cm−3 and nearly independent of the relative humidity. This fact points to a minor importance of the sCI + H2O reaction in the case of the sCI arising from α-pinene and limonene. For the isoprene sCIs, however, the ratio k(loss) / k(sCI + SO2) was strongly dependent on the relative humidity. To explore whether sCIs could have a more general role in atmospheric oxidation, we investigated as an example the reactivity of acetone oxide (sCI from the ozonolysis of 2,3-dimethyl-2-butene) toward small organic acids, i.e. formic and acetic acid. Acetone oxide was found to react faster with the organic acids than with SO2; k(sCI + acid) / k(sCI + SO2) = (2.8 ± 0.3) for formic acid, and k(sCI + acid) / k(sCI + SO2) = (3.4 ± 0.2) for acetic acid. This finding indicates that sCIs can play a role in the formation and loss of other atmospheric constituents besides SO2.