bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cross-Subsidies in the Electricity Sector
Authors: Willems Bert , Ehlers Eckart 
Published: February 2017

Most firms in the electricity sector are vertically integrated. Often these integrated firms are accused of using income generated in the regulated sector in order to cross-subsidize their unregulated activities. This cross-subsidization is said to distort the level-playing field and lead to an unfair competition between incumbent and entrants. In this paper we argue that cross-subsidies are a normal business practice which should only be a concern when they are part of anti-competitive practice such as a price squeeze or predatory pricing. If the government is concerned about those practices, it should evaluate the sector using a similar analysis as developed under Article 82 EC, regardless of whether cross-subsidies are involved.
Regulating Alongside Competition – Issues Raised in the UK Airport Market
Authors: Hemsley Chris 
Published: February 2017

Airports have different characteristics to the network utilities, such as energy and water networks, and yet have historically been regulated using regulatory approaches originally designed for these natural monopoly businesses. However, airports can – and do – compete with each other and, following the recent decisions by the UK Competition Commission to require BAA to sell three of its airports, this inter-airport competition looks set to intensify. This paper explores the issues that should be considered when the regulation sits alongside competition. This paper describes how the investment incentives created by the application of ‘RPI-X’ style price cap regulation can be similar to the incentives typically associated with ‘rate of return’ regulation; namely the existence of ‘gold plating’ incentives. However, these distortions to incentives also affect non-regulated airports. A model is presented that illustrates the potential for perverse incentives on non-regulated airports and distortions to their investment decisions. Finally, this paper considers the case of the regulation of Stansted Airport, which illustrates that these incentive effects can occur in practice. This paper concludes that regulators should not assume that approaches designed for natural monopolies are suitable for airports markets or in other markets where there is a degree of competition between suppliers.
Integrated Timetables for Railway Passenger Transport Services
Authors: Finger Matthias , Haller Andreas , Martins Sonia Strube , Trinkner Urs 
Published: February 2017

Rail passenger transport services with integrated regular interval timetables (IRIT) offer passengers a regular interval timetable for services on the railway network. IRIT have the potential to increase the quality and attractiveness of railway passenger services in comparison to other transport modes. This article summarizes the advantages and challenges of an implementation of IRIT for railway passenger services and derives the main requirements for the successful introduction of IRIT. The comparison of the regulatory framework, the role of IRIT and the development of passenger railway services in CH, the NL and the UK, shows that in those countries, where either IRIT has been introduced (CH) or the high frequency of trains between cities provides for a system comparable to IRIT (NL), railway services play a more important role in the modal split. The successful introduction of IRIT requires a long-run implementation schedule which identifies the necessary investments in the railway infrastructure and points out the financial resources available to make those investments. Furthermore, IRIT requires a high level of punctuality of railway passenger services, the coordination between railway companies when designing the timetable and a priority rule for passenger railway services within IRIT when there are capacity restrictions on the railway network.
The Results of Modernizing Network Industries
Authors: Bolognesi Thomas 
Published: February 2017

Since the 1980s, the European Union favours regulatory reforms in network industries and the water sector appears to be the latest to be included in this. We deal with this issue while questioning the concept of “modernization of the Urban Water Systems in Europe” (UWSE). This process began in the second half of 1990 and the Water framework directive (2000) constitutes its main element. Three core principles provide the basis for the modernization of UWSEs: 1/ a rationalisation of the public command; 2/ an increasing use of market mechanisms; 3/ the identification of sustainable development goals. After implementation it appears that many UWSEs fall short of expectations. Our analysis is concentrated on the impacts and the operating mechanisms, impacts of such reform. It is argued that modernization entails a change in the modalities of coordinating UWSEs, while intensifying and polarizing the problems of sustainability around economic issues. At an organizational level, modernization tends to depoliticize UWSEs and increase socio-institutional resilience. These two phenomena are mainly the result of hybridization of institutional arrangements in favor of the market. With respect to sustainability potential, the lack of coherence in the development of UWSEs re-regulation explains the relatively gloomy outlook.
The modern role of androgen deprivation therapy in the management of localised and locally advanced prostate cancer
Authors: Gunner Charlotte , Gulamhusein Aziz , Rosario Derek J 
Published: February 2017

Introduction: Approximately 50% of men diagnosed with prostate cancer will be exposed to androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) at some stage. The role of ADT in the management of metastatic disease has long been recognised, and its place in the management of localised and locally advanced disease has become clearer in the past few years. Nevertheless, concerns remain that some men might not benefit from ADT in earlier-stage disease. The purpose of the current article is to provide a brief narrative review of the role of ADT as part of a strategy of treatment with curative intent, concentrating mainly on key recent developments in the area. Methods: Narrative literature review of key publications in the English language relating to ADT in the management of localised and locally advanced prostate cancer. Results: In locally advanced and high-risk localised prostate cancer, the use of ADT in combination with radiotherapy improves disease-specific and overall survival. There is no evidence to support the use of ADT in the treatment of low-risk localised prostate cancer. There appears to be an increased risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality associated with luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone agonists, particularly in men with pre-existing cardiovascular disease, but the relevance of this in the adjuvant/neoadjuvant setting is currently unclear. Conclusions: Future studies should focus on identification of men who are at risk from cardiovascular complications associated with ADT and on the comparison of radiotherapy with ADT versus surgery in the management of localised and locally advanced prostate cancer, particularly with regards to men with pre-existing comorbidities.
Age, Sex, Body Mass Index, Education, and Social Support Influence Functional Results After Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Sveikata Tomas , Porvaneckas Narunas , Kanopa Paulius , Molyte Alma , Klimas Dalius , Uvarovas Valentinas , Venalis Algirdas 
Published: February 2017

Introduction: Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is an effective treatment for knee osteoarthritis. Patient-reported outcome after TKA is influenced by multiple patient-related factors. The aim of this study was to prospectively evaluate preoperative patient-related factors and to compare the self-reported outcomes 1 year after TKA among groups differing by age, sex, body mass index (BMI), education, and social support level. Methods: 314 patients, who underwent TKA in Vilnius Republican University Hospital between the end of 2012 and the middle of 2014, were included in a study. The preoperative and 12-month follow-up measurements were obtained using Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and Short Form-12 (SF-12). Differences between patient groups according to gender, age, BMI, level of education, and level of social support were analyzed. Results: At 12-month follow-up men demonstrated better results than women in WOMAC ( P = .003) and SF-12 both domains ( P < .05). Patients with a higher social support demonstrated higher scores in physical function according to SF-12 ( P = .008). Better preoperative WOMAC and SF-12 scores were a predictor of better outcome 1 year after surgery. There was no difference in postoperative scores in different age, BMI, and education groups according to WOMAC and SF-12. Conclusion: There is no difference in self-reported functional outcome between patient groups differing in age, BMI, and education. Men and socially supported patients demonstrate better postoperative functional results 12 months after TKA. Better preoperative knee function and overall physical and mental function are predictors of better outcome 1 year after TKA. Age and obesity should not be limiting factors when considering who should receive this surgery.
Comparison of Techniques Used to Locate the Malar Eminence
Authors: Nechala Patrik , Mahoney James , Farkas Leslie G 
Published: February 2017

Introduction The malar eminence is of surgical interest for several reasons including facial trauma, esthetics and congenital anomalies. Objective To compare several techniques developed to locate the malar eminence on live subjects. Methods An initial trial involving 30 men and women located the malar eminence using Hinderer's, Wilkinson's, Powell's and maxillozygion methods. A subsequent trial used a custom-made measuring device called the anthropometer to examine 11 volunteers. In this part of the study, only Hinderer's and Wilkinson's methods of intersecting lines were used in addition to the palpated maxillozygion. The location of the three points was recorded relative to the vertex, opisthocranion and facial midline. Results During the initial trial, it was recognized that Powell's method of intersecting lines describes a point too lateral to use concomitantly with the other methods of intersecting lines. The distances of Hinderer's, Wilkinson's and Powell's points from the maxillozygion were 8.5±2.9 mm, 7.6±3.3 mm and 28.4±4.8 mm, respectively. In the second part of the study, Hinderer's point, in general, is medial and inferior to the maxillozygion, while Wilkinson's point is lateral and an equal distance from the vertex as the maxillozygion. The three points appear to be randomly interspersed in their distances from the opisthocranion. Conclusions By combining the techniques of intersecting lines and direct palpation, a more comprehensive evaluation of the malar complex can be made. This is especially true in cases where there exists an asymmetry in the bony skeleton that is then compensated by the overlying soft tissues.
Current Status of Suction Lipectomy in Canada: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Plastic Surgeons
Authors: Schwarz Gaston , Pusic Andrea L 
Published: February 2017

Background Suction lipectomy is the most common aesthetic surgery performed in North America. The safety of the procedure has recently been questioned, particularly with respect to large volume aspiration. Objective To delineate Canadian liposuction practice patterns and perceived complication rates. Subjects and Methods A survey was mailed to all plastic surgeons registered with the Canadian Society of Plastic Surgeons. The survey assessed surgeon demographics, hospital admission rates following liposuction, techniques used, wetting solutions, aspirate volumes and complications. Results A total of 322 surveys were mailed. The response rate was 44%. Of the 142 surgeons who responded, 119 regularly performed suction lipectomy. They reported that 70% of patients had suction lipectomy performed on an outpatient basis. Forty per cent of procedures were performed in private clinics. On average, surgeons performed 40 liposuctions/year without ancillary procedures and 27 liposuctions/year with ancillary procedures. Fifteen per cent of surgeons used ultrasound-assisted liposuction as an adjunct to traditional liposuction, although less than 1% used it exclusively. The ratio of aspirate to infiltrate was 0.25 to one in 45% of cases, 0.5 to one in 37%, one to one in 17% and one to one in fewer than 1%. In 69% of patients, 1 to 2 L was aspirated, while in fewer than 5% of patients, more than 3.5 L was aspirated. Early complication rates were as follows: hematoma and seroma 2.6%, infection 1.3% and skin loss 0.01%. Contour irregularity was the main late complication, occurring in 12% of patients. No cases of venous thrombosis, or pulmonary or fat emboli were reported. No deaths were reported. Conclusions Suction lipectomy is performed commonly by Canadian plastic surgeons, with the majority using a wet or superwet technique. In the vast majority of patients, fewer than 3500 cm3 are aspirated. The complication rate is perceived to be low.
Nerve Growth Potential of FK 506 and Its Analogues – A Systematic review of Controlled Trials in Rats
Authors: Nelluri Pramod K , Lyons Robert , Severo Antonio , Peterson Darryl W , Chettipally Uli K , Garza Jamie R 
Published: February 2017

Background Nerve injuries of the upper extremity seldom regain full preinjury function. Delay in nerve repair, nerve gap and ischemic local conditions are some of the factors attributed as the cause. The proximal axonal segment regenerates in the presence of neuronotrophic factors present in nerve tissue. FK 506 and its nonimmunosuppressive analogues have been shown to influence the growth of axons experimentally. Parallel studies of animals and human beings have demonstrated strong, toxic effects of these agents. Purpose To review systematically data on the role of FK 506 and its analogues in peripheral nerve regeneration of randomized, controlled trials in rats. Reports dealing with the toxic effects of these agents all were reviewed as well. Methods Articles and reviews were identified through a computerized search of MEDLINE from January 1966 to September 1999 by using the terms “FK 506”, “FKBP-12 ligands”, “peripheral nerve regeneration” and “nephrotoxicity, cardiotoxicity and neurotoxicity in FK 506”. Two reviewers assessed the trials independently. Results FK 506 caused dose-related enhancement of axonal growth in all animals that were tested and for all routes of drug administration. Effects of FK 506 when used locally and of its analogues occurred in the same order as those of the parent drug. Conclusions FK 506 and its analogues have been experimentally proven to be potent nerve stimulators. Further studies are warranted in view of the pathological and clinical potential for nephrotoxicity and cardiotoxicity of these agents. The authors proposed an experimental model incorporating a nerve conduit filled with slow release FK 506 at the site of nerve gap or crush, thus decreasing its systemic effects.
What is the Ideal Replacement for the Scapholunate Ligament in a Chronic Dissociation?
Authors: Harvey Ej , Hanel D 
Published: February 2017

An ideal replacement for the scapholunate ligament has not been found. The carpometacarpal bone-ligament-bone complex at the base of the third metacarpal can be used as a replacement for the scapholunate ligament. A cadaveric study of matched scapholunate ligament and third metacarpal-capitate was carried out. Data for stiffness and strength were obtained from fresh frozen specimens tested to failure with a hydraulic distractor. The third metacarpal-scaphoid ligament most closely approximated the stiffness and the strength of the scapholunate ligament. Operative replacement of the scapholunate ligament with the third metacarpal-scaphoid replacement was accomplished. Clinically, the performance of the operation is facile and, in the present study, was not associated with increased morbidity or duration of surgery compared with other options. This study indicates that the third carpometacarpal ligament approximates the mechanical properties of the scapholunate ligament and is a good alternative for replacement surgery.
Part II: Reformers in Medical Education and Practice
Authors: Entin Martin A 
Published: February 2017

Background Part I was published in Can J Plast Surg 2000;8(1):25–29. It established that standards of professional practice shift constantly. When a standard falls short of professional expectation or when a physician becomes more concerned with financial gain rather than patient care, society needs the action of a reformer. Part II continues the study and begins with the contribution of reformer John Hunter (1728–1793), and follows with the contributions of seven other reformers, concluding with Wilder Penfield (1891–1976). Study Design The reformers were physicians and scientists who were selected throughout the history of medicine: they conformed to our definition of reformers, namely, a person whose action changed the structure or ideology of medical practice. Results The present historical article shows that reforms are produced by people possessing critical judgement and analytical quality who influenced the direction of medical practice. Conclusion Reforms have been achieved through intuitive leaps, alterations of conventional practice, painstaking research or administrative restructuring.
Surgical Management of Favre-Racouchot Syndrome
Authors: Skoulakis Charalambos , Manios Andreas , Chimona Theognosia , Tsiftsis Dimitrios 
Published: February 2017

Background Nodular elastosis of the skin or Favre-Racouchot syndrome presents as thick yellow plaques with cysts and comedones around the periorbital area in people with prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Objective To demonstrate the surgical management of Favre-Racouchot syndrome. Methods Surgical excision of affected skin in a 55-year-old farmer with Favre-Racouchot syndrome and reconstruction of skin defects by using a local flap and a free graft were performed. Results Skin lesions were successfully excised with an acceptable aesthetic result, and the patient's condition was excellent two years after the removal. Conclusion Surgical treatment for Favre-Racouchot syndrome is recommended when there are extensive lesions by using either local flaps or free grafts.
Functional assessment of the sciatic nerve after repair with local delivery of FK 506 in rats
Authors: Nelluri Pramod K , Lyons Robert C , Nastala Chet L , Garza Jaime R 
Published: February 2017

Difficulties with nerve repair are addressed principally in two ways – one is a meticulous apposition of nerve fibres by microsurgical techniques and the other is the facilitation of the regeneration of proximal axons by neurotrophic factors. The latter concept essentially involves optimizing the microenvironment at the site of injury by biochemical influences. FK 506 (tacrolimus), an immunosuppressive agent, has been recently found to have nerve regenerative potential in experimental animals; however, the various toxic effects of the drug, when used systemically (which has been the case in all of these experiments), limit its clinical use. To prevent such toxic effects of FK 506 in a nerve injury model, a local drug delivery method was developed by suspending a known concentration of FK 506 in fibrin glue (fibrin sealant) to release slowly 1 mg of the drug at the local site. Materials and Methods The sciatic nerve was transected in 18 rats and primary microsurgical repair was performed. Rats in group 1, the control group, had transection and primary repair, those in group 2 had transection and primary repair reinforced with fibrin sealant, and those in group 3 had primary repair that was reinforced with fibrin sealant and FK 506 (1 mg). A walking track analysis was performed, beginning in the second week, to evaluate functional recovery of the sciatic nerve. Results Overall, the animals that received FK 506 showed earlier recovery than those in the control group. Further, mean footprint length factors of the rats in group 3 showed significant early improvement between four and five weeks after surgery, whereas the improvements in groups 1 and 2 started toward normalization a week later, between five and six weeks after surgery. The experimental goal of the study was to determine whether locally delivered FK 506 is beneficial to nerve regeneration.
Strain pattern in the upper facial skeleton: Preliminary model development
Authors: Goldberg Cory Scot , Fialkov Jeffrey Allan 
Published: February 2017

In the human upper facial skeleton, the patterns of strain caused by physiological loading are not known. It is generally accepted that these patterns can be predicted based on the morphology of the bone, but this is not necessarily the case. The elucidation of these patterns of strain has a significant impact on the plating techniques of facial fractures, the development of bone substitutes and tissue-engineered bone, and the understanding of facial development. The goal of this study was to initiate the development of a model that could be used to measure strain magnitude and direction in the upper facial skeleton from physiological loading of facial musculature. A strain gauge was bonded to the lateral orbital rim of a cadaveric skull that had been dissected, leaving only muscular origins and insertions intact. Braided nylon straps were sutured to the origins and insertions of the masseter and levator labii superioris, and these were pulled individually using a hydraulic testing machine. When the masseter origin was pulled, the recorded strain increased with increasing force and the angle of the strain corresponded directly to the angle of pull. When the levator labii superioris origin was pulled, the angle of strain was directed anteriorly and inferiorly, but did not correspond with the axis of the muscle or the axis of the lateral orbital rim where the strain gauge was located. It was concluded that this model is reliable and reproducible for investigating strain magnitude and direction in the human upper facial skeleton.
Limitations of studying keloid scars using the nude athymic mouse model
Authors: Hillmer Mp , Salama S , Macleod Sm 
Published: February 2017

Keloid scars are benign fibroproliferative growths that respond poorly to treatment. This study sought to determine the efficacy of three different glucocorticoids (triamcinolone, methylprednisolone and dexamethasone) in altering human keloid scar tissue implanted in athymic mice. Keloid tissue obtained from three patients (one man and two women) who sought cosmetic removal of their scars was implanted into athymic mice for a duration of 15 or 30 days. The keloid tissue was examined histopathologically and evaluated by a dermatopathologist who was blinded to sample identity and who was using predetermined qualitative scoring criteria. The appearance of central calcification, granulation tissue, foreign body granulomatous reaction and acute inflammatory reaction complicated the comparison of the keloid tissue samples. However, on the basis of observations reported in the present paper, it appears that triamcinolone should remain the treatment of choice for keloid scars. The athymic mouse model that is used for studying keloid scars is the best available approach to in vivo studies; however, limitations identified in this study confound the interpretation of experimental data. Ideally, promising and novel therapies should be investigated clinically.