bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do cystic vestibular schwannomas have worse surgical outcomes? Systematic analysis of the literature
Authors: Thakur Jai Deep , Khan Imad Saeed , Shorter Cedric D. , Sonig Ashish , Gardner Gale L. , Guthikonda Bharat , Nanda Anil
Published: September 2012

Object

The goal of this study was to perform a systematic quantitative comparison of the surgical outcomes between cystic vestibular schwannomas (CVSs) and solid vestibular schwannomas (SVSs).

Methods

A review of English-language literature published between 1990 and 2011 was performed using various search engines including PubMed, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane database. Only studies that reported surgical results of CVSs in comparison with SVSs were included in the analysis. The primary end point of this study was surgical outcomes, defined by the following: 1) facial nerve outcomes at latest follow-up; 2) mortality rates; or 3) non–facial nerve complication index. Secondary end points included extent of resection and brainstem adherence.

Results

Nine studies comprising 428 CVSs and 1287 SVSs were included in the study. The mean age of patients undergoing surgery was 48.3 ± 6.75 and 47.1 ± 9 years for CVSs and SVSs, respectively (p = 0.8). The mean tumor diameter for CVSs was 3.9 ± 0.84 cm and that for SVSs was 3.7 ± 1.2 cm (p = 0.7). There was no significant difference in the extent of resection among CVSs and SVSs (81.2% vs 80.7%, p = 0.87) Facial nerve outcomes were significantly better in the cohort of patients with SVSs than in those with CVSs (52.1% vs 39%, p = 0.0001). The perioperative mortality rates for CVSs and SVSs were not significantly different (3% and 3.8%, respectively; p = 0.6). No significant difference was noted between the cumulative non–facial nerve complication rate (including mortality) among patients with CVSs and SVSs (24.5% and 25.6%, respectively; p = 0.75)

Conclusions

Facial nerve outcomes are worse in patients undergoing resection for CVSs than in patients undergoing resection for SVSs. There were no significant differences in the extent of resection or postoperative morbidity and mortality rates between the cohorts of patients with vestibular schwannomas.
Hearing preservation surgery for vestibular schwannoma: experience with the middle fossa approach
Authors: DeMonte Franco , Gidley Paul W.
Published: September 2012

Object

In the early 1960s William F. House developed the middle fossa approach for the removal of small vestibular schwannomas (VSs) with the preservation of hearing. It is the best approach for tumors that extend laterally to the fundus of the internal auditory canal, although it does have the potential disadvantage of increased facial nerve manipulation, especially for tumors arising from the inferior vestibular nerve. The aim of this study was to monitor the hearing preservation and facial nerve outcomes of this approach.

Methods

A prospective database was constructed, and data were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

Between December 2004 and January 2012, 30 patients with small VSs underwent surgery via a middle fossa approach for hearing preservation. The patients consisted of 13 men and 17 women with a mean age of 46 years. Tumor size ranged from 7 to 19 mm. Gross-total resection was accomplished in 25 of 30 patients. Preoperative hearing was American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS) Class A in 21 patients, Class B in 5, Class C in 3, and undocumented in 1. Postoperatively, hearing was graded as AAO-HNS Class A in 15 patients, Class B in 7, Class C in 1, Class D in 2, and undocumented in 5. Facial nerve function was House-Brackmann (HB) Grade I in all patients preoperatively. Postoperatively, facial nerve function was HB Grade I in 28 patients, Grade III in 1, and Grade IV in 1. There were 3 complications: CSF leakage in 1 patient, superficial wound infection in 1, and extradural hematoma (asymptomatic) in 1. The overall hearing preservation rate of at least 73% and HB Grade I facial nerve outcome of 93% in this cohort are in keeping with other contemporary reports.

Conclusions

The middle fossa approach for the resection of small VSs with hearing preservation is a viable and relatively safe option. It should be considered among the various options available for the management of small, growing VSs.
Technical nuances of resection of giant (> 5 cm) vestibular schwannomas: pearls for success
Authors: Kulwin Charles G. , Cohen-Gadol Aaron A.
Published: September 2012

Removal of vestibular schwannomas (VSs, or acoustic neuromas) remains one of the most challenging operations in neurosurgery. Giant or huge tumors (> 5 cm) heighten these challenges, and technical nuances play a special role in maximizing tumor resection while minimizing complications. In this article, the senior author describes his technical experience with microsurgical excision of giant VSs. The accompanying video further illustrates these details.
A stepwise illustration of the translabyrinthine approach to a large cystic vestibular schwannoma
Authors: Nickele Christopher M. , Akture Erinc , Gubbels Samuel P. , Başkaya Mustafa K.
Published: September 2012

Of the presigmoid approaches, the translabyrinthine approach is often used when a large exposure is needed to gain access to the cerebellopontine angle but when hearing preservation is not a concern. At the authors' institution, this approach is done with the aid of ENT/otolaryngology for temporal bone drilling and exposure.

In the present article and video, the authors demonstrate the use of the translabyrinthine approach for resection of a large cystic vestibular schwannoma, delineating the steps of positioning, opening, temporal bone drilling, tumor resection, and closure. Gross-total resection was achieved in the featured case. The patient's postoperative facial function was House-Brackmann Grade II on the side ipsilateral to the tumor, although function improved with time.

The translabyrinthine route to the cerebellopontine angle is an excellent approach for masses that extend toward the midline or anterior to the pons. Although hearing is sacrificed, facial nerve function is generally spared.
Longitudinal analysis of hearing before and after radiosurgery for vestibular schwannoma
Authors: Yomo Shoji , Carron Romain , Thomassin Jean-Marc , Roche Pierre-Hugues , Régis Jean
Published: September 2012

Object

The aim of this study was to perform an accurate analysis of changes in hearing in patients with vestibular schwannoma (VS) who have undergone Gamma Knife surgery (GKS) and distinguish the impact of radiosurgery from the natural course of hearing deterioration due to the tumor itself.

Methods

This study was a retrospective review of prospectively collected patient data. A group of 154 patients with unilateral nonsurgically treated VS was conservatively monitored for more than 6 months and then treated with GKS between July 1997 and September 2005. They were followed up with serial clinical examination, MRI, and audiometry. The annual hearing decrease rate (AHDR) was measured before and after radiosurgery, and the possible prognostic factors for hearing preservation were investigated.

Results

The mean dose prescribed to the tumor margins was 12.1 Gy. The mean radiological follow-up period after GKS was 60 months (range 7–123 months). The tumor control rate was 94.8%, and 8 patients underwent subsequent intervention due to tumor progression. The mean audiological follow-up times before and after GKS were 22 and 52 months, respectively. The mean AHDRs before and after GKS were 5.39 dB/year (95% CI 3.31–7.47 dB/year) and 3.77 dB/year (95% CI 3.13–4.40 dB/year), respectively (p > 0.05). The mean pre- and post-GKS AHDRs in patients who initially had Gardner-Robertson (GR) Class I hearing were −0.57 dB/year (95% CI −2.95 to 1.81 dB/year) and 3.59 dB/year (95% CI 2.52–4.65 dB/year), respectively (p = 0.007). The mean pre- and post-GKS AHDRs in patients who initially had GR Class II hearing were 5.09 dB/year (95% CI 1.36–8.82 dB/year) and 4.98 dB/year (95% CI 3.86–6.10 dB/year), respectively (p > 0.05). A subgroup of 80 patients had both early and late post-intervention AHDR assessment (with early referring to the period from GKS to the assessment closest to the 2-year follow-up point and late referring to the period from that assessment to the most recent one); in these patients, the mean early post-GKS AHDR was 5.86 dB/year (95% CI 4.25–7.50 dB/year) and the mean late post-GKS AHDR was 1.86 dB/year (95% CI 0.77–2.96 dB/year) (p < 0.001). A maximum cochlear dose of less than 4 Gy was found to be the sole prognostic factor for hearing preservation.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrated the absence of an increase in AHDR after radiosurgery as compared with the preoperative AHDR. There was even a trend indicating a reduction in the annual hearing loss after radiosurgery over the long term. To fully elucidate a possible protective effect of radiosurgery, longer-term follow-up with a larger group of patients will be required.
Neurosurgical complications of left ventricular assist devices in children
Authors: Mayer Rory R. , Hwang Steven W. , Reddy Gaddum D. , Morales David L. , Whitehead William E. , Curry Daniel J. , Bollo Robert J. , Luerssen Thomas G. , Jea Andrew
Published: September 2012

Object

Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) are continuous or pulsatile flow devices that could potentially be life-saving measures for patients with end-stage heart failure. These devices have clear advantages over extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and are often used in adults. They are only recently being commonly used in the pediatric age group. As the use of LVADs becomes more mainstream in children, it is important to determine the complication profile associated with these devices. Furthermore, with the increasing application of LVADs in children, pediatric neurosurgeons are seeing a correlative increase in associated neurological complications. In this study, the authors reviewed the incidence of neurological complications due to LVAD use in the pediatric age group and the role of neurosurgery in treatment.

Methods

The authors examined data regarding patients with LVADs from the Texas Children's Hospital Heart Center database (July 01, 2007, to June 30, 2011) and recorded neurological complications requiring neurosurgical consultation. They identified 2 children who underwent craniotomies during LVAD treatment.

Results

Intracranial hemorrhage occurred in 3 (6.5%) of the 46 patients treated with an LVAD at the authors' institution. Of these patients, 2 were treated with craniotomies for life-threatening intracranial hemorrhages. The 3 patients in the neurosurgical cohort presented with cerebral infarction, decreased level of consciousness, and/or seizure. At the last follow-up (286, 503, and 550 days), 1 patient (Case 2) had no decline in neurological status, underwent a successful heart transplant, and was discharged home; 1 patient (Case 1) died of refractory cardiac failure; and 1 patient (Case 3) was on an LVAD for destination therapy (that is, the LVAD is not a bridge to transplantation but rather the final treatment). This patient was discharged from the hospital, but he died of overwhelming fungemia at 286 days while on VAD support.

Conclusions

Intracranial hemorrhage is a serious and feared complication of LVAD treatment. While the surgical risk is substantial due to systemic anticoagulation and significant medical comorbidities, neurosurgical evacuation of hemorrhage plays an important life-saving role that can yield successful and acceptable outcomes.
Infiltrative brainstem and cerebellar neurocytoma
Authors: Ahmad Faiz , Rosenblum Marc K. , Chamyan Gabriel , Sandberg David I.
Published: September 2012

Neurocytomas are typically intraventricular in location, and extraventricular neurocytomas are uncommon. The authors report the unique case of a 15-year-old girl who was found to have a low-grade neurocytoma infiltrating the brainstem and cerebellum and spreading along the CSF pathways to the lateral and third ventricles. The patient underwent endoscopic third ventriculostomy to treat associated hydrocephalus, and biopsy specimens from intraventricular tumor nodules were obtained. Because of the low-grade pathology, the fact that the lesion was not amenable to resection, and the extensive radiation field required for radiation therapy, she has been treated conservatively with close follow-up. Over the course of almost 4 years since diagnosis, no additional treatment has been required. Neurocytoma with widespread infiltration of the brainstem and cerebellum has not been previously reported.
High-flow bypass and tandem microsurgical-endovascular occlusion of recurrent proximal middle cerebral artery aneurysms in a pediatric patient
Authors: Abla Adib A. , Ducruet Andrew F. , Spetzler Robert F. , Crowley R. Webster , McDougall Cameron G. , Albuquerque Felipe C.
Published: September 2012

The authors report the case of a 7-year-old boy with headaches, in whom CT angiography showed multiple intracranial aneurysms from the terminus region of the right internal carotid artery through the proximal right middle cerebral artery (MCA). Initially, the patient underwent clip reconstruction of the M1 segment. Multiple microsurgical and endovascular treatments were required because the largest of these aneurysms recurred several times over the next 1.5 years. The first recurrence was treated with stent coiling and the second by microsurgical occlusion of the MCA combined with the use of a radial artery graft in a common carotid artery–to-MCA bypass. The aneurysm again recurred and was treated by proximal coil occlusion 15 months after the first treatment session. At a 7.5-year follow-up examination, the aneurysms remained occluded. This case highlights the benefit of combined endovascular and microsurgical techniques in the treatment of a complex and unusual case of proximal MCA aneurysmal disease. The patient, now 15 years old, is neurologically intact and able to participate in all activities.
Treatment of choroid plexus tumors: a 20-year single institutional experience
Authors: Bettegowda Chetan , Adogwa Owoicho , Mehta Vivek , Chaichana Kaisorn L. , Weingart Jon , Carson Benjamin S. , Jallo George I. , Ahn Edward S.
Published: September 2012

Object

Choroid plexus tumors (CPTs) are rare intracranial neoplasms that constitute approximately 2%–5% of all pediatric brain tumors. Most of these tumors present with severe hydrocephalus. The optimal perioperative management and oncological care remain a matter of debate. The authors present the epidemiological and clinical features of CPTs from a 20-year single-institutional experience.

Methods

A total of 39 consecutive patients with pathologically proven CPTs (31 choroid plexus papillomas [CPPs] and 8 choroid plexus carcinomas [CPCs]) were included in this series. Patient demographics, clinical presentation, comorbidities, indications for surgery, radiological studies, tumor location, and all operative variables were reviewed for each case. Multivariate regression analysis was performed to identify independent predictors of tumor recurrence and survival.

Results

The overall mean age (± SD) was 13.13 ± 19.59 years (15.27 ± 21.10 years in the CPP group and 3.66 ± 3.59 years in the CPC group). Hydrocephalus was noted at presentation in 34% of patients. The most common presenting symptoms were headache (32%) and nausea/vomiting (26%). Gross-total resection (GTR) was achieved in 86% of CPPs and in 71% of CPCs (p = 0.57). There was 100% survival in patients with CPPs observed at the 5- and 10-year follow-up and 71% survival in patients with CPCs at the 5-year follow-up. In a multivariate regression analysis, a diagnosis of papilloma, preoperative vision changes, or hydrocephalus; right ventricle tumor location; and GTR were all independently associated with a decreased likelihood of tumor recurrence at last follow-up.

Conclusions

The authors' study suggests that patients with CPCs are more likely to experience local recurrence and metastasis; hence, GTR with chemotherapy and radiotherapy, particularly for CPCs, is pivotal in preventing recurrence and prolonging survival. While GTR was important for local control following resection of CPPs, it had a minimal effect on prolonging survival in this patient cohort.
Characterizations of those Pn(S) which are Relatively Stone Nearlattice
Authors: Akhter S. , Noor A. S. A.
Published: September 2012

For a fixed element n of a nearlattice S, a convex subnearlattice of S containing n is called an n-ideal of S. An n-ideal generated by a single element a is called a principal n-ideal, denoted by n. The set of principal n-ideals is denoted by Pn(S). A distributive nearlattice S is called relatively Stone nearlattice if each closed interval [x,y] with  is a Stone lattice. In this paper, we give several characterizations of those Pn(S) which are relatively Stone in terms of n-ideals and relative n-annihilators.© 2012 JSR Publications. ISSN: 2070-0237 (Print); 2070-0245 (Online). All rights reserved.doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jsr.v4i3.10103 J. Sci. Res. 4 (3), 589-601 (2012)
Induction of Humoral Immunity Through the Enhancement of IgM Production in Murine Splenic Cells by Ethanolic Extract of Seed of Piper nigrum L.
Authors: Sarker M. M. R.
Published: September 2012

The immunostimulating activity of 70% ethanololic extract of P. nigrum L. was investigated by measuring the production of immunoglobulin M (IgM) and the proliferation of murine splenic cells in vitro. The production of IgM in cultured supernatants was determined by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and proliferation of cells was measured by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-y)-2,5-diphenylterazolium bromide (MTT) assay. The extract at the doses of 0.01 and 0.1 mg/ml significantly augmented the production of polyclonal IgM production (0.3206 and 0.5014 µg/ml, respectively) compared to control (0.1465 µg/ml). No dose of the extract could remarkably increase the proliferation of splenocytes. Thus, the present study clearly demonstrates the immunostimulating activity of ethanololic extract of Piper nigrum; exhibited mainly by the differentiation of B cells to plasma cells rather than proliferation of splenocytes.© 2012 JSR Publications. ISSN: 2070-0237 (Print); 2070-0245 (Online). All rights reserved.doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jsr.v4i3.10485 J. Sci. Res. 4 (3), 751-756 (2012)
Common Fixed Points of Compatible Mappings
Authors: Singh M. P. , Yumnam R.
Published: September 2012

In this paper we prove two common fixed point theorems by considering four mappings in complete metric space. In the first theorem we consider two pairs of compatible mappings of type (A) and in the second theorem we consider two pairs of compatible mappings of type (B). Our results modify and extend some earlier results in the literature.© 2012 JSR Publications. ISSN: 2070-0237 (Print); 2070-0245 (Online). All rights reserved.doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jsr.v4i3.10567 J. Sci. Res. 4 (3), 603-608 (2012)
Microstructure and Complex Permeability Spectra of Polycrystalline Cu-Zn Ferrites
Authors: Akhter Shahida , Paul D. P. , Hakim M. A. , Akhter S. , Saha D. K. , Anjuman B. , Islam F.
Published: September 2012

Cu-Zn ferrites of composition Cu1-xZnxFe2O4 were prepared by double sintering ceramic technique at 9500C and 10500C for 3 hours and 2 hours, respectively. Structural and magnetic properties of the Cu-Zn ferrites were investigated by using X-ray diffraction, microstructure study and complex permeability behaviour. X-ray analysis indicated the formation of single-phase cubic spinel structure for all samples. The lattice parameter was found to increase with increasing Zn content obeying Vegards law. The X-ray and bulk densities of the Cu-Zn ferrite significantly decreased whereas porosity increased with increasing Zn concentration. Micrographs exhibited decrease in grain size with increasing concentrations. The real part ?of initial permeability remained constant up to certain lower range of frequency after which it decreased to lower value of permeability. ? increased with increasing Zn contents up to x = 0.5, after that it decreased with higher Zn content but  was also found to increase with sintering temperature. The possible reasons responsible for change in structural, microstructural and complex permeability with increasing of non-magnetic Zn2+ ion are ascertained.© 2012 JSR Publications. ISSN: 2070-0237 (Print); 2070-0245 (Online). All rights reserved.doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jsr.v4i3.10798 J. Sci. Res. 4 (3), 551-560 (2012)
Negative Inotropic and Chronotropic Effects of Phenolic Fraction from Cynodon dactylon (linn) on Isolated Perfused Frog Heart
Authors: Mohamed Shabi M. , David Raj C. , Sasikala C. , Gayathri K. , Joseph J.
Published: September 2012

Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers belongs to the family Poaceae is a grass native to North Africa, Asia and Australia and southern Europe. The phenolic fraction of Cynodon dactylon (Linn) (CDP) was evaluated for its cardio-protective activity using isolated frog´s heart perfusion method. The negative inotropic and chronotropic activities were recorded using kymograph. The CDP produced negative inotropic and chronotropic actions on isolated frog heart. The pharmacological effect was selectively inhibited by atropine indicating that these might have been mediated through muscarinic receptor.© 2012 JSR Publications. ISSN: 2070-0237 (Print); 2070-0245 (Online). All rights reserved.doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jsr.v4i3.8549 J. Sci. Res. 4 (3), 657-663 (2012)
Repellent Action of Diatomaceous Earth against the Adult Red Flour Beetle Tribolium castaneum (Herbst)
Authors: Reza A. M. S. , Hossain M. M. , Parween S.
Published: September 2012

Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) adults were released to choice chambers containing untreated flour in one half and diatomaceous earth (DE)-treated flour in the other half. The doses of DE used were 2-32 mg/g. Females, males and unsexed adults were exposed separately to each dose for 24-, 48-, 72-, 96- and 120-h. DE at 32 mg/g strongly repelled (P<0.001) both sexes and unsexed beetles at all exposure periods. The males showed comparatively more avoidance to DE-treated flour at longer exposures.© 2012 JSR Publications. ISSN: 2070-0237 (Print); 2070-0245 (Online). All rights reserved.doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jsr.v4i3.9637 J. Sci. Res. 4 (3), 783-788 (2012)
Next-Generation Sequencing: Application in Liver Cancer—Past, Present and Future?
Authors: Marquardt Jens U. , Andersen Jesper B.
Published: September 2012

Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) is the third most deadly malignancy worldwide characterized by phenotypic and molecular heterogeneity. In the past two decades, advances in genomic analyses have formed a comprehensive understanding of different underlying pathobiological layers resulting in hepatocarcinogenesis. More recently, improvements of sophisticated next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies have enabled complete and cost-efficient analyses of cancer genomes at a single nucleotide resolution and advanced into valuable tools in translational medicine. Although the use of NGS in human liver cancer is still in its infancy, great promise rests in the systematic integration of different molecular analyses obtained by these methodologies, i.e., genomics, transcriptomics and epigenomics. This strategy is likely to be helpful in identifying relevant and recurrent pathophysiological hallmarks thereby elucidating our limited understanding of liver cancer. Beside tumor heterogeneity, progress in translational oncology is challenged by the amount of biological information and considerable “noise” in the data obtained from different NGS platforms. Nevertheless, the following review aims to provide an overview of the current status of next-generation approaches in liver cancer, and outline the prospects of these technologies in diagnosis, patient classification, and prediction of outcome. Further, the potential of NGS to identify novel applications for concept clinical trials and to accelerate the development of new cancer therapies will be summarized.
Nano-Impact (Fatigue) Characterization of As-Deposited Amorphous Nitinol Thin Film
Authors: Faisal Nadimul H. , Ahmed Rehan , Fu Richard
Published: September 2012

This paper presents nano-impact (low cycle fatigue) behavior of as-deposited amorphous nitinol (TiNi) thin film deposited on Si wafer. The nitinol film was 3.5 µm thick and was deposited by the sputtering process. Nano-impact tests were conducted to comprehend the localized fatigue performance and failure modes of thin film using a calibrated nano-indenter NanoTest™, equipped with standard diamond Berkovich and conical indenter in the load range of 0.5 mN to 100 mN. Each nano-impact test was conducted for a total of 1000 fatigue cycles. Depth sensing approach was adapted to understand the mechanisms of film failure. Based on the depth-time data and surface observations of films using atomic force microscope, it is concluded that the shape of the indenter test probe is critical in inducing the localized indentation stress and film failure. The measurement technique proposed in this paper can be used to optimize the design of nitinol thin films.
More Wind Power Integration with Adjusted Energy Carriers for Space Heating in Northern China
Authors: Long Hongyu , Xu Kunyao , Xu Ruilin , He Jianjun
Published: September 2012

In Northern China, due to the high penetration of coal-fired cogeneration facilities, which are generally equipped with extraction-condensing steam turbines, lots of wind power resources may be wasted during the heating season. In contrast, considerable coal is consumed in the power generation sector. In this article, firstly it is revealed that there exists a serious divergence in the ratio of electrical to thermal energy between end users’ demand and the cogenerations’ production during off-peak load at night, which may negate active power-balancing of the electric power grid. Secondly, with respect to this divergence only occurring during off-peak load at night, a temporary proposal is given so as to enable the integration of more wind power. The authors suggest that if the energy carrier for part of the end users’ space heating is switched from heating water to electricity (e.g., electric heat pumps (EHPs) can provide space heating in the domestic sector), the ratio of electricity to heating water load should be adjusted to optimize the power dispatch between cogeneration units and wind turbines, resulting in fuel conservation. With this proposal, existing infrastructures are made full use of, and no additional ones are required. Finally a numerical simulation is performed in order to illustrate both the technical and economic feasibility of the aforementioned proposal, under ongoing infrastructures as well as electricity and space heating tariff conditions without changing participants’ benefits. The authors aim to persuade Chinese policy makers to enable EHPs to provide space heating to enable the integration of more wind power.
Wireless Industrial Monitoring and Control Networks: The Journey So Far and the Road Ahead
Authors: Zand Pouria , Chatterjea Supriyo , Das Kallol , Havinga Paul
Published: September 2012

While traditional wired communication technologies have played a crucial role in industrial monitoring and control networks over the past few decades, they are increasingly proving to be inadequate to meet the highly dynamic and stringent demands of today’s industrial applications, primarily due to the very rigid nature of wired infrastructures. Wireless technology, however, through its increased pervasiveness, has the potential to revolutionize the industry, not only by mitigating the problems faced by wired solutions, but also by introducing a completely new class of applications. While present day wireless technologies made some preliminary inroads in the monitoring domain, they still have severe limitations especially when real-time, reliable distributed control operations are concerned. This article provides the reader with an overview of existing wireless technologies commonly used in the monitoring and control industry. It highlights the pros and cons of each technology and assesses the degree to which each technology is able to meet the stringent demands of industrial monitoring and control networks. Additionally, it summarizes mechanisms proposed by academia, especially serving critical applications by addressing the real-time and reliability requirements of industrial process automation. The article also describes certain key research problems from the physical layer communication for sensor networks and the wireless networking perspective that have yet to be addressed to allow the successful use of wireless technologies in industrial monitoring and control networks.
A Review of RedOx Cycling of Solid Oxide Fuel Cells Anode
Authors: Faes Antonin , Hessler-Wyser Aïcha , Zryd Amédée , Van herle Jan
Published: September 2012

Solid oxide fuel cells are able to convert fuels, including hydrocarbons, to electricity with an unbeatable efficiency even for small systems. One of the main limitations for long-term utilization is the reduction-oxidation cycling (RedOx cycles) of the nickel-based anodes. This paper will review the effects and parameters influencing RedOx cycles of the Ni-ceramic anode. Second, solutions for RedOx instability are reviewed in the patent and open scientific literature. The solutions are described from the point of view of the system, stack design, cell design, new materials and microstructure optimization. Finally, a brief synthesis on RedOx cycling of Ni-based anode supports for standard and optimized microstructures is depicted.
Application of Severe Plastic Deformation Techniques to Magnesium for Enhanced Hydrogen Sorption Properties
Authors: Huot Jacques , Skryabina Nataliya Ye. , Fruchart Daniel
Published: September 2012

In this paper we review the latest developments in the use of severe plastic deformation (SPD) techniques for enhancement of hydrogen sorption properties of magnesium and magnesium alloys. Main focus will be on two techniques: Equal Channel Angular Pressing (ECAP) and Cold Rolling (CR). After a brief description of these two techniques we will discuss their effects on the texture and hydrogen sorption properties of magnesium alloys. In particular, the effect of the processing temperature in ECAP on texture will be demonstrated. We also show that ECAP and CR have produced different textures. Despite the scarcity of experimental results, the investigations up to now indicate that SPD techniques produce metal hydrides with enhanced hydrogen storage properties.
Computational Prediction of Blood-Brain Barrier Permeability Using Decision Tree Induction
Authors: Suenderhauf Claudia , Hammann Felix , Huwyler Jörg
Published: September 2012

Predicting blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability is essential to drug development, as a molecule cannot exhibit pharmacological activity within the brain parenchyma without first transiting this barrier. Understanding the process of permeation, however, is complicated by a combination of both limited passive diffusion and active transport. Our aim here was to establish predictive models for BBB drug permeation that include both active and passive transport. A database of 153 compounds was compiled using in vivo surface permeability product (logPS) values in rats as a quantitative parameter for BBB permeability. The open source Chemical Development Kit (CDK) was used to calculate physico-chemical properties and descriptors. Predictive computational models were implemented by machine learning paradigms (decision tree induction) on both descriptor sets. Models with a corrected classification rate (CCR) of 90% were established. Mechanistic insight into BBB transport was provided by an Ant Colony Optimization (ACO)-based binary classifier analysis to identify the most predictive chemical substructures. Decision trees revealed descriptors of lipophilicity (aLogP) and charge (polar surface area), which were also previously described in models of passive diffusion. However, measures of molecular geometry and connectivity were found to be related to an active drug transport component.
Assembly of DNA Architectures in a Non-Aqueous Solution
Authors: Finch Amethist S. , Anton Christopher M. , Jacob Christina M. , Proctor Thomas J. , Stratis-Cullum Dimitra N.
Published: September 2012

In the present work, the procedures for the creation of self-assembled DNA nanostructures in aqueous and non-aqueous media are described. DNA-Surfactant complex formation renders the DNA soluble in organic solvents offering an exciting way to bridge the transition of DNA origami materials electronics applications. The DNA retains its structural features, and these unique geometries provide an interesting candidate for future electronics and nanofabrication applications with potential for new properties. The DNA architectures were first assembled under aqueous conditions, and then characterized in solution (using circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy) and on the surface (using atomic force microscopy (AFM)). Following aqueous assembly, the DNA nanostructures were transitioned to a non-aqueous environment, where butanol was chosen for optical compatibility and thermal properties. The retention of DNA hierarchical structure and thermal stability in non-aqueous conditions were confirmed via CD spectroscopy. The formation and characterization of these higher order DNA-surfactant complexes is described in this paper.
Physical Properties of Polypeptide Electrospun Nanofiber Cell Culture Scaffolds on a Wettable Substrate
Authors: Haynie Donald T. , Khadka Dhan B. , Cross Michael C.
Published: September 2012

Physical properties of poly(L-ornithine) (PLO), a polycation, poly(L-glutamic acid4-co-L-tyrosine) (PLEY), a polyanion, and electrospun fibers made of these polymers have been determined and compared. The polymers adopted random coil-like conformations in aqueous feedstocks at neutral pH and in dehydrated cast films and fibers on glass, and the fibers comprised numerous counterions, according to spectral analysis. Adsorption of model proteins and serum proteins onto hydrated and crosslinked fibers depended on the electrical charge of the proteins and the fibers. The surface charge density of the fibers will be comparable to, but less than, the charge density on the outer leaflet of the plasma membrane of usual eukaryotic cells. The present analysis thus advances understanding of cell behavior on electrospun fiber scaffolds, a topic of considerable current interest.
A Method for Gauging Landscape Change as a Prelude to Urban Watershed Regeneration: The Case of the Carioca River, Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Schlee Mônica Bahia , Tamminga Kenneth R. , Tangari Vera Regina
Published: September 2012

Natural systems undergo processes, flows, and rhythms that differ from those of urban sociocultural systems. While the former takes place over eras or many generations, the latter may occur within years or even months. Natural systems change includes no principle of intentional progress or enhancement of complexity. In contrast, sociocultural systems change occurs through inherited characteristics, learning, and cultural transmission [1]. Both are dynamic, heterogeneous, and vulnerable to regime shifts, and are inextricably linked. The interrelations among natural and anthropogenic factors affecting sustainability vary spatially and temporally. This paper focuses on landscape changes along the Carioca River valley in Rio de Janeiro, located in the Brazilian Neotropical Southeastern Region, and its implications for local urban sustainability. The study incorporates a transdisciplinary approach that integrates landscape ecology and urban morphology methodologies to gauge landscape change and assess social-ecological systems dynamics. The methodology includes a variety of landscape change assessments; including on-site landscape ecological, landscape morphology, biological and urbanistic surveys, to gauge urban watershed quality. It presents an adapted inventory for assessment of urban tropical rivers, Neotropical Urban Stream Visual Assessment Protocol (NUSVAP), and correlates the level of stream and rainforest integrity to local urban environmental patterns and processes. How can urban regional land managers, planners and communities work together to promote shifts toward more desirable configurations and processes? An understanding of the transient behavior of social-ecological systems and how they respond to change and disturbance is fundamental to building appropriate management strategies and fostering resilience, regenerative capacity, and sustainable development in urban watersheds. The sociocultural patterns, processes and dynamics of Rio’s hillsides suggest that increasing the multifunctionality, flexibility, adaptability and connectivity of open spaces may influence carrying, adaptive and regenerative capacities of urban landscape systems.
Genetics-Based Classification of Filoviruses Calls for Expanded Sampling of Genomic Sequences
Authors: Lauber Chris , Gorbalenya Alexander E.
Published: September 2012

We have recently developed a computational approach for hierarchical, genome-based classification of viruses of a family (DEmARC). In DEmARC, virus clusters are delimited objectively by devising a universal family-wide threshold on intra-cluster genetic divergence of viruses that is specific for each level of the classification. Here, we apply DEmARC to a set of 56 filoviruses with complete genome sequences and compare the resulting classification to the ICTV taxonomy of the family Filoviridae. We find in total six candidate taxon levels two of which correspond to the species and genus ranks of the family. At these two levels, the six filovirus species and two genera officially recognized by ICTV, as well as a seventh tentative species for Lloviu virus and prototyping a third genus, are reproduced. DEmARC lends the highest possible support for these two as well as the four other levels, implying that the actual number of valid taxon levels remains uncertain and the choice of levels for filovirus species and genera is arbitrary. Based on our experience with other virus families, we conclude that the current sampling of filovirus genomic sequences needs to be considerably expanded in order to resolve these uncertainties in the framework of genetics-based classification.
Social Exclusion and Non-Places: From Urban Spaces to the Drive
Authors: Vinot Frédéric
Published: September 2012

Prolongement d’une recherche clinique sur l’exclusion sociale, l’hypothèse d’un « Autre urbain » est évoquée sous trois registres : littéraire, clinique et anthropologique. À chaque fois, la fonction du trou dans l’espace (zones blanches, effacement d’un trait, non-lieu anthropologique) y sera évoquée, dessinant peu à peu une logique pulsionnelle que j’espère pouvoir mettre en évidence au cœur même de ce qui pourrait s’appeler « l’Autre urbain ».
The Primal Bond and its Relationship to Humanization
Authors: Chevalérias Marie-Paule
Published: September 2012

À partir de l’étude de l’Esquisse de Freud, où sont mis particulièrement en valeur la prématurité de l’être humain et l’indispensable apport de l’autre pour la survie, nous exposons que la traversée de l’expérience de la confrontation à l’énigme de l’autre et à sa radicale altérité amène la mère à engager son désir avant toute satisfaction du besoin de son enfant. En prenant appui sur les repères symboliques constitutifs de son histoire, et en l’invitant à sortir de la jouissance pour l’investir en tant qu’être de désir, la mère occupe là une place fondamentale dans le processus d’humanisation.
Ocular Toxocariasis
Authors: Arevalo J. Fernando , Espinoza Juan V. , Arevalo Fernando A.
Published: September 2012

Ocular toxocariasis is an uncommon worldwide parasitic infection that affects mostly children and is found in both rural and metropolitan areas. In many parts of the world, parasitic infections of the eye are a major cause of blindness. The diagnosis of toxocariasis is essentially clinical, based on the lesion morphology and supportive laboratory data such as serum enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) titers and ELISAToxocaratiters on aqueous humor; other diagnostic methods are imaging studies including optical coherence tomography, fluorescein angiography, computed tomography, and ocular ultrasound. Treatment is directed at complications arising from intraocular inflammation and vitreous membrane traction. Early vitrectomy may be of value both diagnostically and therapeutically.[J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus 2013;50:76–86.]
Retinal Metastasis Simulating Cytomegalovirus Retinitis
Authors: Payne John F. , Rahman Hassan T. , Grossniklaus Hans E. , Bergstrom Chris S.
Published: September 2012

A 62-year-old man with lung cancer presented with a 2-week history of decreased vision and clinical features of cytomegalovirus retinitis. The patient was empirically treated for viral retinitis, but microbiological testing of the vitreous fluid was negative. Based on the suspicion for retinal metastasis, the patient underwent pars plana vitrectomy with retinal biopsy. Surgical techniques included the use of a chandelier illumination to enable bimanual manipulation of the retinal tissue, creation a focal retinal detachment with a 41-gauge subretinal cannula, diathermy demarcation of the biopsy site, localized retinectomy with vertical scissors, endolaser, and long-acting gas tamponade. Histopathologic examination revealed sheets of tumor cells with pleomorphic nuclei and positive staining for cytokeratins consistent with metastatic adenocarcinoma. The patient subsequently underwent external beam radiation and was alive 10 months after presentation. This surgical technique may be valuable in select patients with retinal metastasis for diagnostic, therapeutic, and counseling purposes.
Blind Insertion of Feeding Tubes in Intensive Care Units: A National Survey
Authors: Metheny Norma A. , Stewart Barbara J. , Mills Andrew C.
Published: September 2012

Background

Although most critically ill patients experience at least 1 blind insertion of a feeding tube during their stay in an intensive care unit, little is known about the types of health care personnel who perform these insertions or about methods used to determine proper positioning of the tubes.

Objectives

To describe results from a national survey of critical care nurses about feeding tube practices in their adult intensive care units. The questions asked included who performs blind insertions of feeding tubes and what methods are used to determine if the tubes are properly positioned.

Methods

Data were collected from members of the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses via pencil-and-paper and online surveys. Results from both forms were combined for data analysis and were compared with practice recommendations of national-level organizations.

Results

A total of 2298 responses were obtained. Physicians perform more blind insertions of styleted feeding tubes than do nurses; in contrast, nurses place more nonstyleted tubes. Radiographic confirmation of correct position is mandated more often for blindly inserted styleted tubes (92.3%) than for nonstyleted tubes (57.5%). The 3 most commonly used bedside methods to determine tube location are auscultation for air injected via the tube, appearance of feeding tube aspirate, and observation for indications of respiratory distress.

Conclusions

Recommendations from multiple national-level organizations to obtain radiographic confirmation that each blindly inserted feeding tube is correctly positioned before the first use of the tube are not adequately implemented. Auscultation is widely used despite recommendations to the contrary.
Negative Regulation of NKG2D Expression by IL-4 in Memory CD8 T Cells
Authors: Ventre Erwan , Brinza Lilia , Schicklin Stephane , Mafille Julien , Coupet Charles-Antoine , Marçais Antoine , Djebali Sophia , Jubin Virginie , Walzer Thierry , Marvel Jacqueline
Published: September 2012

IL-4 is one of the main cytokines produced during Th2-inducing pathologies. This cytokine has been shown to affect a number of immune processes such as Th differentiation and innate immune responses. However, the impact of IL-4 on CD8 T cell responses remains unclear. In this study, we analyzed the effects of IL-4 on global gene expression profiles of Ag-induced memory CD8 T cells in the mouse. Gene ontology analysis of this signature revealed that IL-4 regulated most importantly genes associated with immune responses. Moreover, this IL-4 signature overlapped with the set of genes preferentially expressed by memory CD8 T cells over naive CD8 T cells. In particular, IL-4 downregulated in vitro and in vivo in a STAT6-dependent manner the memory-specific expression of NKG2D, thereby increasing the activation threshold of memory CD8 T cells. Furthermore, IL-4 impaired activation of memory cells as well as their differentiation into effector cells. This phenomenon could have an important clinical relevance as patients affected by Th2 pathologies such as parasitic infections or atopic dermatitis often suffer from viral-induced complications possibly linked to inefficient CD8 T cell responses.
The Small Ubiquitin-like Modifier-Deconjugating Enzyme Sentrin-Specific Peptidase 1 Switches IFN Regulatory Factor 8 from a Repressor to an Activator during Macrophage Activation
Authors: Chang Tsung-Hsien , Xu Songxiao , Tailor Prafullakumar , Kanno Tomohiko , Ozato Keiko
Published: September 2012

Macrophages, when activated by IFN-γ and TLR signaling, elicit innate immune responses. IFN regulatory factor 8 (IRF8) is a transcription factor that facilitates macrophage activation and innate immunity. We show that, in resting macrophages, some IRF8 is conjugated to small ubiquitin-like modifiers (SUMO) 2/3 through the lysine residue 310. SUMO3-conjugated IRF8 failed to induce IL12p40 and other IRF8 target genes, consistent with SUMO-mediated transcriptional repression reported for other transcription factors. SUMO3-conjugated IRF8 showed reduced mobility in live nuclei and bound poorly to the IL12p40 gene. However, macrophage activation caused a sharp reduction in the amount of SUMOylated IRF8. This reduction coincided with the induction of a deSUMOylating enzyme, sentrin-specific peptidase 1 (SENP1), in activated macrophages. In transfection analysis, SENP1 removed SUMO3 from IRF8 and enhanced expression of IL12p40 and other target genes. Conversely, SENP1 knockdown repressed IRF8 target gene expression. In parallel with IRF8 deSUMOylation, macrophage activation led to the induction of proteins active in the SUMO pathway and caused a global shift in nuclear protein SUMOylation patterns. Together, the IRF8 SUMO conjugation/deconjugation switch is part of a larger transition in SUMO modifications that takes place upon macrophage activation, serving as a mechanism to trigger innate immune responses.
Biblical Spirituality and J.H. Eaton
Authors: Lombaard Christo
Published: September 2012

In this contribution, the nature of �Biblical Spirituality� as an academic discipline is reviewed from a methodological perspective. Two core aspects are indicated: the importance of ancient expressions of faith (spiritualities) in the Bible, and the importance of modern expressions of faith (spiritualities) as they draw on the Bible. Based on this framework, as a first application of such a nature within the field of Biblical Spirituality, the relevant publications of an Old Testament scholar are evaluated; in this case, those of J.H. Eaton. Such an analysis opens an arena for discussion on whether this model of Biblical Spirituality holds promise for wider application.