bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decreased Exhaled Nitric Oxide Levels in Patients with Mitochondrial Disorders
Authors: Mosquera Ricardo A. , Samuels Cheryl L. , Harris Tomika S. , Yadav Aravind , Hashmi S. Shahrukh , Knight Melissa S. , Koenig Mary Kay
Published: August 2013

Background:

Nitric oxide (NO) deficiency may occur in mitochondrial disorders (MD) and can contribute to the pathogenesis of the disease. It is difficult and invasive to measure systemic nitric oxide. NO is formed in the lungs and can be detected in expired air. Currently, hand-held fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) measurement devices are available enabling a fast in-office analysis of this non-invasive test. It was postulated that FeNO levels might be reduced in MD.

Methods:

Sixteen subjects with definite MD by modified Walker criteria (4 to 30 years of age) and sixteen healthy control subjects of similar age, race and body mass index (BMI) underwent measurement of FeNO in accordance with the American Thoracic Society guidelines.

Results:

Sixteen patient-control pairs were recruited. The median FeNO level was 6.5 ppm (IQR: 4-9.5) and 10.5 ppm (IQR: 8-20.5) in the MD and control groups, respectively. In 13 pairs (81%), the FeNO levels were lower in the MD cases than in the matched controls (p=0.021). Eleven (69%) cases had very low FeNO levels (≤7ppm) compared to only 1 control (p=0.001). All cases with enzymatic deficiencies in complex I had FeNO ≤7ppm.

Conclusions:

Single-breath exhaled nitric oxide recordings were decreased in patients with MD. This pilot study suggests that hand-held FeNO measurements could be an attractive non-invasive indicator of MD. In addition, measurement of FeNO could be used as a parameter to monitor therapeutic response in this population.
Attachment, Proliferation, and Chondroinduction of Mesenchymal Stem Cells on Porous Chitosan-Calcium Phosphate Scaffolds
Authors: Elder Steven , Gottipati Anuhya , Zelenka Hilary , Bumgardner Joel
Published: August 2013

Symptomatic osteochondral lesions occur frequently, but relatively few treatment options are currently available. The purpose of this study was to conduct a preliminary investigation into a new tissue engineering approach to osteochondral regeneration. The concept is a biphasic construct consisting of a porous, osteoconductive chitosan-calcium phosphate scaffold supporting a layer of neocartilage formed by marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells. Two experiments were conducted to assess the feasibility of this approach. The first experiment characterized the attachment efficiency and proliferation of primary human marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells seeded relatively sparely onto the scaffold’s surface. The second experiment compared two different methods of creating a biphasic construct using a much higher density of primary porcine marrow stromal cells. About 40% of the sparsely seeded human cells attached and proliferated rapidly. Constructs formed by one of the two experimental techniques exhibited a layer of cartilaginous tissue which only partially covered the scaffold’s surface due to inadequate adhesion between the cells and the scaffold. This study demonstrates some potential for the approach to yield an implantable biphasic construct, but further development is required to improve cell-scaffold adhesion.
Avatars with Sex Appeal as Pedagogical Agents: Attractiveness, Trustworthiness, Expertise, and Gender Differences
Authors: Wang Chih-Chien , Yeh Wei-Jyh
Published: August 2013

The study focused on the use of pedagogical agents with sex appeal in a computer-assisted learning environment. The study adopted a 2 (male/female) × 3 (demure/seductive/overtly sexual) experimental design. The primary analysis consisted of 2 parts: (a) comparing the impact of effective learning on students' perceptions of demure, seductive, or overtly sexual pedagogical agents, and (b) exploring gender differences in the usage of pedagogical agents with sex appeal. The empirical study results revealed that the sex appeal of female pedagogical agents is more helpful in effective learning than those of male agents. The sexy appearances of pedagogical agents are perceived by students as attractive, untrustworthy, and unprofessional. A seductive appearance in pedagogical agents is the most beneficial for effective learning than demure or overtly sexual ones. Students' and pedagogical agents' gender affect the impact of pedagogical agents with sex appeal on effective learning.
Using J-Query Mobile Technology to Support a Pedagogical Proficiency Course
Authors: Kert Serhat Bahadir
Published: August 2013

Technology-enriched educational environments supported by different technological tools and applications are today's important research areas in the educational literature. During the educational process, different types of technologies are used in order to enhance the learning capabilities of students. Given the popularity of mobile phones, it can be said that mobile applications developed for educational purposes have remarkable potential as content and software diversity in terms of educational aspects. Within this context, a different kind of mobile learning software was developed and used during a pedagogical proficiency course in this study. The software named YTUMOB was developed by using J-Query technology and was used as a support tool during a pedagogical proficiency course. Retrieving statistics of the mobile environment were recorded and analyzed. In order to examine the effectiveness of the system, assignment- and test-based evaluation results were used together and statistical comparisons were made between experimental and control groups of the study. All developing and conducting processes of the software were explained in detail. The results of the study revealed that differences between the academic success points of two groups were increased in time in favor of the group using mobile J-Query support.
The Role of Internet-Specific Epistemic Beliefs and Self-Regulation in High School Students' Online Academic Help Seeking: A Structural Equation Modeling Analysis
Authors: Cheng Kun-Hung , Liang Jyh-Chong , Tsai Chin-Chung
Published: August 2013

Three instruments (i.e., Internet-specific epistemic beliefs, self-regulation, and online academic help seeking questionnaires) were administered to 319 high school students with the aim of understanding the role of Internetspecific epistemic beliefs and self-regulation in their online academic help seeking. Through a structure equation modeling analysis, the results confirm the mediated effects of self-regulation on the relationships between Internet-specific epistemic beliefs and online academic help seeking. Interestingly, naïve beliefs about how Internet-based knowledge is constructed and sophisticated beliefs about how Internet-based knowledge is evaluated are verified to be linked with the students' online academic help seeking. The results imply that, with the focus on the Internet as a context of information, the positive influences of sophisticated epistemic beliefs on learning might be challenged, and the role of personal epistemic beliefs should be reinterpreted.
Descriptive Indicators of Future Teachers' Technology Integration in the PK-12 Classroom: Trends from a Laptop-Infused Teacher Education Program
Authors: Hughes Joan E.
Published: August 2013

This research examined preservice teacher graduates' positioning toward integrating technology in future teaching. Participants included 115 preservice teachers across three cohorts in 2008–2009 who graduated from a laptop-infused teacher education program. The study implemented a case study methodology that included a survey administered upon graduation. Indicators of positioning toward technology integration included: digital technology self-efficacy, attitude toward learning technologies, pedagogical perspective, personal/educational digital technology behaviors during the program, and TPACK knowledge used to rationalize their most valued technologies for future teaching. Results indicated graduates held moderate digital technology self-efficacy, positive attitude toward learning technologies, and moderate constructivist philosophy. During their preparation, productivity software activities were used most widely for educational purposes. Their most valued technologies for teaching subject matter were predominantly productivity software as well as general hardware, such as computers, projectors, and document cameras. They described teacher-centric uses three times more often than student-centered. Graduates showed low depth of TPACK. Teacher education programs need to consider the degree to which their candidates are exposed to a range of contemporary ICTs, especially content-specific ICTs, and the candidates' development of TPACK, which supports future technology-related instructional decision-making. Such knowledge is developed across the teaching career, and technological induction programs may support continued TPACK development. Future research should employ longitudinal studies to understand TPACK development and use across novice and veteran teachers.
The experience and insight of survivors who have engaged in a restorative justice meeting with their assailant
Authors: Wager Nadia
Published: August 2013

This review study explores the experiences of survivors of sexual violence
who engaged in a restorative justice (RJ) meeting with their assailant to
ascertain whether the process contributes to, or further compounds, their
recovery. This paper forms a small part of a more extensive scoping review
employing Arksey and O?Malley?s (2002) framework. The search was confined to
articles/reports published in English. Initially, 58 sources were identified
as suitable for inclusion and each of these sources were then scrutinised to
identify accounts of survivors of sexual violence who have taken part in RJ
initiatives that have involved a face-to-face meeting with the assailant.
This revealed 10 applicable cases, from across four different countries. The
findings suggest that under certain circumstances survivors of sexual
violence might receive significant benefit from participating in RJ. The
specific conditions under which the benefits appear to be forthcoming and
areas for future research are discussed.
Sex and gender characteristics in the Criminal Code of the Republic of Croatia with special reference to the criminal offences of rape and domestic violence
Authors: Skoric Marissabell
Published: August 2013

The study deals with the issue of whether the norms of criminal law make a
distinction between male and female sex with regard to the perpetrator of the
criminal offence as well as with regard to the victim of the criminal offence
and also the issue of whether male or female sex have any role in the
criminal law. It is with this objective in mind that the author analyzed the
provisions of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Croatia and statistical
data on total crime in the Republic of Croatia and the relation between male
and female perpetrators of criminal offences. The statistical data reveal
that men commit a far greater number of offences than women. Apart from this,
women and men also differ according to the type of the criminal offence they
tend to commit. Women as perpetrators of criminal offences that involve the
element of violence are very rare. At the same time, women are very often
victims of violent offences perpetrated by men, which leads us to the term of
gender-based violence. Although significant steps forward have been made at
the normative level in the Republic of Croatia in defining and sanctioning of
genderbased violence, gender stereotypes can still be observed in practice
when sexual crimes are in question so that we can witness domestic violence
on a daily basis. All of this leads to the conclusion that it is necessary to
make further efforts in order to remove all obstacles that prevent changes in
social relations and ensure equality between women and men, not only de jure
but also de facto.
Victims of ‘private’ crimes and application of human rights in interpersonal relations
Authors: Reiter Axelle
Published: August 2013

International human rights law has been challenged because of its alleged
inability to safeguard the rights of the most vulnerable victims of violence.
Whereas in real life they are often marginalized and effectively left without
adequate protection, this is not to be attributed to the absence of an
appropriate normative framework but rather to the contempt, lack of
enforcement and systemic neglect of their claims. This paper proposes to find
a ?cure? inside international human rights law, by strengthening the
mechanisms that permit a horizontal application of human rights standards in
private relations. The paper is divided in four sections. The first section
describes the problematic at hand, focusing in particular on violence against
women and children. The three subsequent sections then analyze the avenues
open to victims in order to claim a ?third-party? application of human rights
treaties against non-state actors who have violated their fundamental rights.
Environmental criminal offences - victimless crimes?
Authors: Batricevic Ana
Published: August 2013

Ecological criminal offences, the most serious forms of harming and
threatening of environment or its integral parts, represents a global
phenomenon of great social hazard. They are often connected with organized
transnational criminality, criminal offences against life and bodily
integrity, corruption, tax evasion and discrimination. Disputable nature of
the subject these incriminations protect imposes a question: ?Who are the
victims of ecological criminal offences - individuals, social groups, entire
society or environment as value per se?? Perceiving ecological criminal
offences as victimless crimes diminishes their importance and the circle of
subjects interested to unveil, prove, prevent, suppress and impose
punishments for these offences. Therefore, the author discusses the
sustainability of the traditional, anthropocentrically defined term of victim
in the context of biocentrism and its growing influence on criminal law,
criminology and victimology. Attempting to determine whether ecological
criminal offences represent victimless crimes, the author analyzes their
term, characteristics and significance. Starting from the traditional
definition of victim, she analyzes the term of ?victimless crimes? and its
(un)sustainability in the context of environmental crime, focusing on its
most frequent victims and the necessity of their protection.
Pseudoexfoliation syndrome
Authors: Zoric Lepsa
Published: August 2013

nema
News in the pathophysiology of asthma
Authors: Martinovic Milica
Published: August 2013

nema
Use of mineral trioxide aggregate in the treatment of traumatized teeth in children: Two case reports
Authors: Cetenovic Bojana , Markovic Dejan , Petrovic Bojan , Peric Tamara , Jokanovic Vukoman
Published: August 2013

Introduction. Dental injuries in immature permanent teeth often result in
endodontic complications. Apexification technique using calcium hydroxide is
associated with certain flaws, such as long treatment time, the possibility
of tooth fracture and incomplete calcification. The use of an apical plug
employing mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) is an alternative treatment
option. Case report. We reported the successful treatment of 4 maxillary
incisors (in a 7-year-old boy and a 10-year-old girl) with open apices and
periapical lesions. Apical portions of the canals were filled with MTA plugs
in both cases. Coronal parts of the root canals were filled with gutta-percha
and sealer. Clinical findings were clear 6 months after the definite
obturation with no pathological changes on the radiographs in both cases.
Conclusion. The use of MTA for apical plugging appears to be a valid
treatment option in traumatized immature teeth with endodontic complications.
Central pontine myelinolysis in a chronic alcoholic: A clinical and brain magnetic resonance imaging follow-up
Authors: Dujmovic Irena , Vitas Jelena , Zlataric Natasa , Drulovic Jelena
Published: August 2013

Introduction. Central pontine myelinolysis (CPM) is a noninflammatory,
demyelinating lesion usually localised in the basis pontis. Chronic
alcoholism is frequently associated with this condition which may have a
variable clinical outcome. Until now, brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
follow-up in alcoholic CPM cases after alcohol withdrawal has been rarely
described. Case report. We reported a 30- year-old male with a 12-year
history of alcohol abuse, who presented with inability to stand and walk,
nausea, vomiting and somnolence. Neurological examination revealed: impared
fixation on lateral gaze, dysarthria, mild spastic quadriparesis, truncal and
extremity ataxia, sock-like hypesthesia and moderate decrease in vibration
sense in legs. Brain MRI showed a trident-shaped non-enhancing pontine lesion
highly suggestive of CPM. After an eight-month alcoholfree follow-up period,
the patient?s clinical status significantly improved, while the extent of MRI
pontine lesion was merely slightly reduced. Conclusion. The presented case
demonstrates that CPM in chronic alcoholics may have a benign clinical course
after alcohol withdrawal, which is not necessarily associated with the
reduction of lesions on brain MRI.
Detection of main tidal frequencies using least squares harmonic estimation method
Authors: Mousavian R. , Hossainali M. Mashhadi
Published: August 2013

In this paper the efficiency of the method of Least Squares Harmonic Estimation (LS-HE) for detecting the main tidal frequencies is investigated. Using this method, the tidal spectrum of the sea level data is evaluated at two tidal stations: Bandar Abbas in south of Iran and Workington on the eastern coast of the UK. The amplitudes of the tidal constituents at these two tidal stations are not the same. Moreover, in contrary to the Workington station, the Bandar Abbas tidal record is not an equispaced time series. Therefore, the analysis of the hourly tidal observations in Bandar Abbas and Workington can provide a reasonable insight into the efficiency of this method for analyzing the frequency content of tidal time series. Furthermore, applying the method of Fourier transform to the Workington tidal record provides an independent source of information for evaluating the tidal spectrum proposed by the LS-HE method. According to the obtained results, the spectrums of these two tidal records contain the components with the maximum amplitudes among the expected ones in this time span and some new frequencies in the list of known constituents. In addition, in terms of frequencies with maximum amplitude; the power spectrums derived from two aforementioned methods are the same. These results demonstrate the ability of LS-HE for identifying the frequencies with maximum amplitude in both tidal records.
GPS baseline configuration design based on robustness analysis
Authors: Yetkin M. , Berber M.
Published: August 2013

The robustness analysis results obtained from a Global Positioning System (GPS) network are dramatically influenced by the configurationof the observed baselines. The selection of optimal GPS baselines may allow for a cost effective survey campaign and a sufficiently robustnetwork. Furthermore, using the approach described in this paper, the required number of sessions, the baselines to be observed, and thesignificance levels for statistical testing and robustness analysis can be determined even before the GPS campaign starts. In this study, wepropose a robustness criterion for the optimal design of geodetic networks, and present a very simple and efficient algorithm based on thiscriterion for the selection of optimal GPS baselines. We also show the relationship between the number of sessions and the non-centralityparameter. Finally, a numerical example is given to verify the efficacy of the proposed approach.
Referencing regional geoid-based vertical datums to national tide gauge networks
Authors: Bolkas D. , Fotopoulos G. , Sideris M. G.
Published: August 2013

The objective of this study is to investigate the best means for referencing a regional geoid-based vertical datum to a network of tide gauges. In this study, a network of 27 tide gauge stations scattered along the coasts of Canada are used in order to assess the replacement of the conventionally derived Canadian Geodetic Vertical Datum of 1928 with a geoid-based datum. This is in-line with the future implementation plan of Canada’s geoid-based vertical height system. A mixed least-squares adjustment was performed for various scenarios, including satellite-only global geoid models, combined global geoid models and regional geoid models. In addition, various sea surface topography and vertical ground motion models were tested for estimating orthometric heights. The resulting approximation of a local equipotential surface is compared to previously published values and considerations for referencing a geoid-based vertical datum to tide gauge networks are emphasized.
Towards a vertical datum standardisation under the umbrella of Global Geodetic Observing System
Authors: Sánchez L.
Published: August 2013

Most of the existing height systems refer to local sea surface levels, are stationary (do not consider variations in time), and realise different physical height types (orthometric, normal, normal-orthometric, etc.). In general, their accuracy is about two orders of magnitude less than that of the realisation of geometric reference systems (sub millimetre level). The Global Geodetic Observing System (GGOS) of the International Association of Geodesy (IAG), taking care of providing a precise geodetic infrastructure for monitoring the system Earth, promotes the standardisation of height systems worldwide. The main objectives are: (1) to provide a reliable frame for consistent analysis and modelling of global phenomena and processes affecting the Earth’s gravity field and the Earth’s surface geometry; and (2) to support the precise combination of physical and geometric heights in order to exploit at a maximum the advantages of satellite geodesy (e.g. combination of satellite positioning and gravity field models for worldwide unified precise height determination). According to this, the GGOS Theme 1 ”Unified Height System” was established in February 2010 with the purpose to bring together existing initiatives and to address the activities to be faced. Starting point are the results delivered by the IAG Inter-Commission Project 1.2 ”Vertical Reference Frames” during the period 2003-2011. The present actions related to the vertical datum homogenisation are being coordinated by the working group ”Vertical Datum Standardisation”, which directly depends on the GGOS Theme 1 and is supported by the IAG Commissions 1 (Reference Frames) and 2 (Gravity Field), as well as by the International Gravity Field Service (IGFS). This paper discusses some aspects to take into consideration for the realisation of a standardised globally unified vertical reference system.
Evaluation of W0 in Canada using tide gauges and GOCE gravity field models
Authors: Hayden T. , Rangelova E. , Sideris M. G. , Véronneau M.
Published: August 2013

The existing Canadian Geodetic Vertical Datum of 1928 (CGVD28) does not meet the needs of the modern user in terms of accuracy and accessibility. As a result, Canada plans to implement a geoid-based and global navigation satellite system (GNSS)-accessible vertical datum by 2013. One of the primary concerns in realizing this new vertical datum is to determine a W0 value that will represent the potential of the zero height surface. The objective of this study is to evaluate W0 by averaging the potential of points on the mean sea water surface utilizing tide gauge recordings and gravity field and steady-state ocean circulation explorer (GOCE)-based global geopotential models. In order to assess the performance of the GOCE-based models for the computation of W0, the models are extended with the high resolution gravitational model EGM2008. Regional gravimetric geoid models are also used for the estimation of W0. Additionally, local sea surface topography models are utilized in order to validate the W0 results at the tide gauges. Excluding the Arctic coast, the W0 values obtained from both tide gauges and oceanic sea surface topography models are not statistically different from the International Earth Rotation and Reference Systems Service (IERS) 2010 global conventional value 62636856.00 m2/s2.
How Significant is the Dynamic Component of the North American Vertical Datum?
Authors: Rangelova E. , Wal W. Van Der , Sideris M.G.
Published: August 2013

One of the main current geodetic activities in North America is the definition and establishment of a geoid-based vertical datum that will replace the official CGVD28 and NAVD88 datums in Canada and the USA, respectively. The new datum will also have a time-dependent (dynamic) component required by the targeted one-centimetre accuracy of the datum. Heights of the levelling benchmarks are subject to temporal changes, which contribute to the degradation of the accuracy of the datum and increase the misfit of the geoid heights determined gravimetrically and by GNSS/levelling. The zero level surface, i.e., the geoid, also changes with time, most significantly due to postglacial rebound, climate-induced loss of polar ice masses and mountain glaciers, and hydrology variations. In this study, we examine the possible changes of the datum due to the aforementioned factors. We are mostly concerned with postglacial rebound as it can contribute more than 1 mm per year and more than 1 cm per decade to the geoid change. We also assess the significance of the temporal geoid and benchmark height changes and show that, compared to its current accuracy, the geoid change is only significant after a decade mostly in the flat areas of central Canada.
Regional geoid-model-based vertical datums – some Australian perspectives
Authors: Featherstone W. E. , Filmer M. S. , Claessens S. J. , Kuhn M. , Hirt C. , Kirby J. F.
Published: August 2013

This article summarises some considerations surrounding a geoid-model-based vertical datum that have to be thought through before its implementation and adoption. Our examples are based on many Australian and some South-East Asian experiences, but these probably also apply elsewhere. The key considerations comprise data quality and availability, politics, and difficulties that users may encounter when adopting quite a different approach to height determination. We advocate some form of new vertical datum to replace the Australian Height Datum, but the exact type (whether using levelling or geoid, or some combination of both) still needs to be decided. We are not specifically opposed to the adoption of a geoid model as the vertical datum, but it is possibly more challenging than appears initially, and may even deter some users that are already well served by levelling-based vertical datums.
Promoting Neuroplasticity for Motor Rehabilitation After Stroke: Considering the Effects of Aerobic Exercise and Genetic Variation on Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor
Authors: Mang Cameron S. , Campbell Kristin L. , Ross Colin J.D. , Boyd Lara A.
Published: August 2013

Recovery of motor function after stroke involves relearning motor skills and is mediated by neuroplasticity. Recent research has focused on developing rehabilitation strategies that facilitate such neuroplasticity to maximize functional outcome poststroke. Although many molecular signaling pathways are involved, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has emerged as a key facilitator of neuroplasticity involved in motor learning and rehabilitation after stroke. Thus, rehabilitation strategies that optimize BDNF effects on neuroplasticity may be especially effective for improving motor function poststroke. Two potential poststroke rehabilitation strategies that consider the importance of BDNF are the use of aerobic exercise to enhance brain function and the incorporation of genetic information to individualize therapy. Converging evidence demonstrates that aerobic exercise increases BDNF production and consequently enhances learning and memory processes. Nevertheless, a common genetic variant reduces activity-dependent secretion of the BDNF protein. Thus, BDNF gene variation may affect response to motor rehabilitation training and potentially modulate the effects of aerobic exercise on neuroplasticity. This perspective article discusses evidence that aerobic exercise promotes neuroplasticity by increasing BDNF production and considers how aerobic exercise may facilitate the acquisition and retention of motor skills for poststroke rehabilitation. Next, the impact of the BDNF gene val66met polymorphism on motor learning and response to rehabilitation is explored. It is concluded that the effects of aerobic exercise on BDNF and motor learning may be better exploited if aerobic exercise is paired more closely in time with motor training. Additionally, information about BDNF genotype could provide insight into the type and magnitude of effects that aerobic exercise may have across individuals and potentially help guide an individualized prescription of aerobic exercise to enhance motor rehabilitation poststroke.
Giant ecchordosis physaliphora in an adolescent girl
Authors: Krisht Khaled M. , Palmer Cheryl A. , Osborn Anne G. , Couldwell William T.
Published: August 2013

The authors describe a rare case of giant ecchordosis physaliphora (EP) in a 16-year-old female patient who presented with diplopia. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain with Gd contrast revealed a 3.0 × 1.7 × 1.8–cm nonenhancing, extraaxial epidural mass along the dorsal aspect of the clivus that was T2 hyperintense and T1 isointense with intermediate signal on diffusion sequences. Resection via a transnasal transsphenoidal approach to the ventral clival wall resulted in a stable tumor size with no evidence of interval growth after 30 months. Although this case features a strictly extradural EP, this tumor more commonly occurs in the subdural space and requires differentiation from intradural chordoma. Unlike EP, intradural chordoma may enhance with Gd contrast, is more likely to be associated with cranial nerve palsies and brainstem symptoms, and will occasionally have an elevated MIB-1 index. In this paper the authors highlight the different possible midline locations for both EP and chordoma, the difficulty in distinguishing between intradural giant EP and intradural chordoma, and the potential occurrence of these lesions in young people despite their typically slow rate of growth, while also underscoring the need for further investigation into the tumors' cytogenetic behavior.
Transsylvian hippocampal transection for mesial temporal lobe epilepsy: surgical indications, procedure, and postoperative seizure and memory outcomes
Authors: Uda Takehiro , Morino Michiharu , Ito Hirotaka , Minami Noriaki , Hosono Atsushi , Nagai Taiki , Matsumoto Takahiro
Published: August 2013

Object

Amygdalohippocampectomy is a well-established, standard surgery for medically intractable mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE). However, in the case of MTLE without hippocampal atrophy or sclerosis, amygdalohippocampectomy is associated with decreased postoperative memory function. Hippocampal transection (HT) has been developed to overcome this problem. In HT the hippocampus is not removed; rather, the longitudinal hippocampal circuits of epileptic activities are disrupted by transection of the pyramidal layer of the hippocampus. The present study describes a less invasive modification of HT (transsylvian HT) and presents the seizure and memory outcomes for this procedure.

Methods

Thirty-seven patients with MTLE (18 men and 19 women; age range 9–63 years; 19 with surgery on the right side and 18 with surgery on the left side; seizure onset from 3 to 34 years) who were treated with transsylvian HT were retrospectively analyzed. All patients had left-side language dominance, and follow-up periods ranged from 12 to 94 months (median 49 months). Seizure outcomes were evaluated for all patients by using the Engel classification. Memory function was evaluated for 22 patients based on 3 indices (verbal memory, nonverbal memory, and delayed recall), with those scores obtained using the Wechsler Memory Scale–Revised. Patients underwent evaluation of the memory function before and after surgery (6 months–1 year).

Results

Engel Class I (completely seizure free) was achieved in 25 patients (67.6%). Class II and Class III designation was achieved in 10 (27%) and 2 patients (5.4%), respectively. There were differences in memory outcome between the sides of operation. On the right side, verbal memory significantly increased postoperatively (p = 0.003) but nonverbal memory and delayed recall showed no significant change after the operation (p = 0.718 and p = 0.210, respectively). On the left side, all 3 indices (verbal memory, nonverbal memory, and delayed recall) showed no significant change (p = 0.331, p = 0.458, and p = 0.366, respectively).

Conclusions

Favorable seizure outcome and preservation of verbal memory were achieved with transsylvian HT for the treatment of MTLE without hippocampal atrophy or sclerosis.
Development of a bioactive implant for repair and potential healing of cranial defects
Authors: Engstrand Thomas , Kihlström Lars , Neovius Erik , Skogh Ann-Charlott Docherty , Lundgren T. Kalle , Jacobsson Hans , Bohlin Jan , Åberg Jonas , Engqvist Håkan
Published: August 2013

The repair of complex craniofacial bone defects is challenging and a successful result is dependent on the size of the defect, quality of the soft tissue covering the defect, and choice of reconstruction method. The objective of this study was to develop a bioactive cranial implant that could provide a permanent reconstructive solution to the patient by stimulating bone healing of the defect. In this paper the authors report on the feasibility and clinical results of using such a newly developed device for the repair of a large traumatic and therapy-resistant cranial bone defect. The patient had undergone numerous attempts at repair, in which established methods had been tried without success. A mosaic-designed device was manufactured and implanted, comprising interconnected ceramic tiles with a defined calcium phosphate composition. The clinical outcome 30 months after surgery revealed a restored cranial vault without postoperative complications. Computed tomography demonstrated signs of bone ingrowth. Examination with combined 18F-fluoride PET and CT provided further evidence of bone healing of the cranial defect.
Pediatric cerebellopontine angle and internal auditory canal tumors
Authors: Holman Michelle A. , Schmitt William R. , Carlson Matthew L. , Driscoll Colin L. W. , Beatty Charles W. , Link Michael J.
Published: August 2013

Object

The aim in this study was to describe the clinical presentation, differential diagnosis, and risk for neurofibromatosis Type 2 (NF2) in pediatric patients presenting with cerebellopontine angle (CPA) and internal auditory canal (IAC) tumors.

Methods

The authors conducted a retrospective study at a tertiary care academic referral center. All patients with an age ≤ 18 years who had presented with an extraaxial CPA or IAC tumor between 1987 and 2012 were included in the study cohort. Data regarding symptoms, diagnosis, tumor characteristics, and NF2 status were collected and analyzed.

Results

Sixty patients (55% female, 45% male) harboring 87 tumors were identified. The mean age at diagnosis was 12.8 years (median 14.0 years, range 0.9–18.9 years). Schwannomas were the most commonly identified lesions (57 of 87 tumors, including 52 vestibular, 3 facial, and 2 trigeminal schwannomas), followed by meningiomas (5 of 87) and epidermoid cysts (4 of 87). Six malignant tumors were diagnosed, including small-cell sarcoma, squamous cell carcinoma, malignant meningioma, atypical rhabdoid-teratoid tumor, endolymphatic sac tumor, and malignant ganglioglioma. Headache, followed by hearing loss and imbalance, was the most common presenting symptom, whereas dysphagia, otalgia, and facial pain were uncommon.

Neurofibromatosis Type 2 was diagnosed in 20 (61%) of 33 patients with vestibular schwannoma (VS), while the other 13 patients (39%) had sporadic tumors. Nineteen of the 20 patients with NF2 met the diagnostic criteria for that disorder on initial presentation, and 15 of them presented with bilateral VS. At the last follow-up, 19 of the 20 patients subsequently diagnosed with NF2 demonstrated bilateral VSs, whereas 1 patient with a unilateral VS and multiple other NF2-associated tumors has yet to demonstrate a contralateral VS to date. Only 1 patient presenting with an isolated unilateral VS and no family history of NF2 demonstrated a contralateral VS on subsequent radiological screening.

Conclusions

Cerebellopontine angle and IAC tumors in the pediatric population are rare. There are several noteworthy differences between the adult and pediatric populations harboring these lesions. While VS is the most common pathology in both age groups, the lesion was found in only 60% of the pediatric patients in the present study. Unlike in adults, VSs in the pediatric population were associated with NF2 in over one-half of all cases. The majority of pediatric patients with NF2 fulfilled the diagnostic criteria at initial presentation; however, approximately 7% of patients presenting with a seemingly sporadic (no family history of NF2) unilateral VS will meet the criteria for NF2 later in life. Finally, malignancies account for a significantly higher percentage (10%) of cases among pediatric patients. These findings underscore the importance of early screening and close radiological follow-up and may be helpful in patient counseling.
Decreased risk of acute kidney injury with intracranial pressure monitoring in patients with moderate or severe brain injury
Authors: Zeng Jingsong , Tong Wusong , Zheng Ping
Published: August 2013

Object

The authors undertook this study to evaluate the effects of continuous intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring–directed mannitol treatment on kidney function in patients with moderate or severe traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Methods

One hundred sixty-eight patients with TBI were prospectively assigned to an ICP monitoring group or a conventional treatment control group based on the Brain Trauma Foundation guidelines. Clinical data included the dynamic changes of patients' blood concentrations of cystatin C, creatinine (Cr), and blood urea nitrogen (BUN); mannitol use; and 6-month Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) scores.

Results

There were no statistically significant differences with respect to hospitalized injury, age, or sex distribution between the 2 groups. The incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) was higher in the control group than in the ICP monitoring group (p < 0.05). The mean mannitol dosage in the ICP monitoring group (443 ± 133 g) was significantly lower than in the control group (820 ± 412 g) (p < 0.01), and the period of mannitol use in the ICP monitoring group (3 ± 3.8 days) was significantly shorter than in the control group (7 ± 2.3 days) (p < 0.01). The 6-month GOS scores in the ICP monitoring group were significantly better than in the control group (p < 0.05). On the 7th, 14th, and 21st days after injury, the plasma cystatin C and Cr concentrations in the ICP-monitoring group were significantly higher than the control group (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

In patients with moderate and severe TBI, ICP-directed mannitol treatment demonstrated a beneficial effect on reducing the incidence of AKI compared with treatment directed by neurological signs and physiological indicators.
Outcomes of CSF shunting in children: comparison of Hydrocephalus Clinical Research Network cohort with historical controls
Authors: Kulkarni Abhaya V. , Riva-Cambrin Jay , Butler Jerry , Browd Samuel R. , Drake James M. , Holubkov Richard , Kestle John R. W. , Limbrick David D. , Simon Tamara D. , Tamber Mandeep S. , Wellons John C. , Whitehead William E. , _ _
Published: August 2013

Object

The Hydrocephalus Clinical Research Network (HCRN), which comprises 7 pediatric neurosurgical centers in North America, provides a unique multicenter assessment of the current outcomes of CSF shunting in nonselected patients. The authors present the initial results for this cohort and compare them with results from prospective multicenter trials performed in the 1990s.

Methods

Analysis was restricted to patients with newly diagnosed hydrocephalus undergoing shunting for the first time. Detailed perioperative data from 2008 through 2012 for all HCRN centers were prospectively collected and centrally stored by trained research coordinators. Historical control data were obtained from the Shunt Design Trial (1993–1995) and the Endoscopic Shunt Insertion Trial (1996–1999). The primary outcome was time to first shunt failure, which was determined by using Cox regression survival analysis.

Results

Mean age of the 1184 patients in the HCRN cohort was older than mean age of the 720 patients in the historical cohort (2.51 years vs 1.60 years, p < 0.0001). The distribution of etiologies differed (p < 0.0001, chi-square test); more tumors and fewer myelomeningoceles caused the hydrocephalus in the HCRN cohort patients. The hazard ratio for first shunt failure significantly favored the HCRN cohort, even after the model was adjusted for the prognostic effects of age and etiology (adjusted HR 0.82, 95% CI 0.69–0.96).

Conclusions

Current outcomes of shunting in general pediatric neurosurgery practice have improved over those from the 1990s, although the reasons remain unclear.
Medical management of eosinophilic meningitis following bovine graft duraplasty for Chiari malformation Type I repair
Authors: Ostendorf Adam P. , Connolly Anne M.
Published: August 2013

Eosinophilic meningitis is a known complication of duraplasty, including that using bovine tissues. Previous authors have relied on surgical removal of the graft for treatment. Authors of the present report describe a 7-year-old girl with eosinophilic meningitis following duraplasty with a bovine pericardium graft who was successfully treated using corticosteroid therapy alone.
The Concept of tamkīn in the Qur'an
Authors: ʿAyyāsh Thanāʾ Najatī
Published: August 2013

This researcher considers that, in spite of the multiplicity of studies which discuss Qur'anic rhetoric, this is an academic arena in which the Qur'an has not been given its real due. In view of this, this article will focus on Qur'anic verses which include the word tamkīn (‘establishment’) and discuss how the context gives this word its specific signification in each instance. Following investigation of these verses, it emerges that there are a number of different types of tamkīn, including tamkīn of prophets and believers, and tamkīn of idolaters. Each of these categories is analysed in terms of actual examples, in order to fully elucidate the subtle differences between the various types of tamkīn.
Marginal Phenomena in the Grammar System, With Supporting Evidence from the Qur'an
Authors: Hassan Tammam
Published: August 2013

The Arabic grammar system is built on basic contextual relationships in which the essentials of expression and their signified meanings are located within the structural sciences of both phonology and morphology. The phonetic and phonological complexes of the language furnish its syntactic markers, grammatical particles (ḥurūf al-maʿānī), indicators of deviation from the grammatical norm, and facilitate the pursuit of khiffa (‘lightness of expression’). Through the framework of morphology, verbal forms and derived morphological patterns are defined, with their attendant features. The purpose of syntax is to delineate the synergy of the relationship between the two abovementioned sciences, phonology and morphology, so as to avoid ambiguity. On account of the finely-tuned links which define the relationship between the disciplinary complexes of phonology, morphology and syntax, classical grammarians attached huge importance to phonetics and morphology as key topics of grammar and its teaching. Accordingly, Arabic grammar is greatly dependent upon two fundamental pillars: ṭalab al-khiffa (‘the pursuit of lightness of expression’), which is a product of the system of phonetics; and amn al-libās (‘contextual exigencies aimed at circumventing ambiguity’). Yet these two foundations are not governed by explicit strictures, and one could argue that despite their importance they are marginal phenomena within the grammar system: as topics in their own right they share much with other topics which fall under the umbrella of general linguistics.
Neural Correlates of Processing Passive Sentences
Authors: Mack Jennifer , Meltzer-Asscher Aya , Barbieri Elena , Thompson Cynthia
Published: August 2013

Previous research has shown that comprehension of complex sentences involving wh-movement (e.g., object-relative clauses) elicits activation in the left inferior frontal gyrus (IFG) and left posterior temporal cortex. However, relatively little is known about the neural correlates of processing passive sentences, which differ from other complex sentences in terms of representation (i.e., noun phrase (NP)-movement) and processing (i.e., the time course of syntactic reanalysis). In the present study, 27 adults (14 younger and 13 older) listened to passive and active sentences and performed a sentence-picture verification task using functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI). Passive sentences, relative to active sentences, elicited greater activation in bilateral IFG and left temporo-occipital regions. Participant age did not significantly affect patterns of activation. Consistent with previous research, activation in left temporo-occipital cortex likely reflects thematic reanalysis processes, whereas, activation in the left IFG supports processing of complex syntax (i.e., NP-movement). Right IFG activation may reflect syntactic reanalysis processing demands associated with the sentence-picture verification task.
ENSO Effects on Land Skin Temperature Variations: A Global Study from Satellite Remote Sensing and NCEP/NCAR Reanalysis
Authors: Bartholomew Henry , Jin Menglin
Published: August 2013

Non-lag and lag correlation coefficients between Niño 3 indices derived from sea-surface temperature (SST) anomalies and land surface variables from satellite based Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) data, as well as National Center for Environmental Prediction/National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCEP/NCAR) Reanalysis data are analyzed for 2001–2010. Strong positive correlations between January Niño 3 indices and skin temperature (Tskin) occur over the northwest USA, western Canada, and southern Alaska, suggesting that an El Niño event is associated with warmer winter temperatures over these regions, consistent with previous studies based on 2 m surface air temperature measurements (Tair). In addition, in January, strong negative correlations exist over central and northern Europe (meaning colder than normal winters) with positive correlations present over central Siberia (suggesting warmer than normal winters). Despite the different physical meaning between Tair and Tskin, the general response of the two surface temperatures to changes in ENSO is similar. Nevertheless, satellite observations of Tskin provide more rich information and higher spatial resolution than Tair data.