bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Induction gemcitabine in standard dose or prolonged low-dose with cisplatin followed by concurrent radiochemotherapy in locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer: a randomized phase II clinical trial
Authors: Vrankar Martina , Zwitter Matjaz , Bavcar Tanja , Milic Ana , Kovac Viljem 
Published: July 2014

Abstract
Background. The optimal combination of chemotherapy with radiation therapy for treatment locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains an open issue. This randomized phase II study compared gemcitabine in two different schedules and cisplatin - as induction chemotherapy, followed by radiation therapy concurrent with cisplatin and etoposid.
Patients and methods. Eligible patients had microscopically confirmed inoperable non-metastatic non-small cell lung cancer; fulfilled the standard criteria for platin-based chemotherapy; and signed informed consent. Patients were treated with 3 cycles of induction chemotherapy with gemcitabine and cisplatin. Two different aplications of gemcitabine were compared: patients in arm A received gemcitabine at 1250 mg/m2 in a standard half hour i.v. infusion on days 1 and 8; patients in arm B received gemcitabine at 250 mg/m2 in prolonged 6-hours i.v. infusion on days 1 and 8. In both arms, cisplatin 75 mg/m2 on day 2 was administered. All patients continued treatment with radiation therapy with 60-66 Gy concurrent with cisplatin 50 mg/m2 on days 1, 8, 29 and 36 and etoposid 50 mg/m2 on days 1-5 and 29-33. The primary endpoint was response rate (RR) after induction chemotherapy; secondary endpoints were toxicity, progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS).
Results. From September 2005 to November 2010, 106 patients were recruited to this study. No statistically signifficant differences were found in RR after induction chemotherapy between the two arms (48.1% and 57.4%, p = 0.34). Toxicity profile was comparable and mild with grade 3/4 neutropenia as primary toxicity in both arms. One patient in arm B suffered from acute peripheral ischemia grade 4 and an amputation of lower limb was needed. With a median follow-up of 69.3 months, progression-free survival and median survival in arm A were 15.7 and 24.8 months compared to 18.9 and 28.6 months in arm B. The figures for 1- and 3-year overall survival were 73.1% and 30.8% in arm A, and 81.5 % and 44.4% in arm B, respectively.
Conclusions. Among the two cisplatin-based doublets of induction chemotherapy for inoperable NSCLC, both schedules of gemcitabine have a comparable toxicity profile. Figures for RR, PFS and OS are among the best reported in current literature. While there is a trend towards better efficacy of the treament with prolonged infusion of gemcitabine, the difference between the two arms did not reach statistical significance
From English to First-Price Sealed Bid: An Empirical Assessment of the Change in Auction Type on Experienced Bidders
Authors: Miller Joshua J. 
Published: July 2014

Abstract
This paper estimate the differential impact of first-price sealed-bid (first-price) auctions relative to English auctions on auction revenue. While there is a theoretical literature on the potential outcomes of first-price relative to English auction, there is a paucity of articles that empirically estimate this relationship. The answer to this question is important not only to economists but also those designing auction for practical application. Using a unique dataset from tax lien auctions in Illinois, I empirically test the effect of a switch in auction type from English to first-price. I find auction revenue is greatly increased, by as much as 22 percent, under the first-price auction. The results are supported by a within county difference-in-difference model specification and are robust when restricting the sample across various specifications
Some Notes on Historical, Theoretical, and Empirical Background of DSGE Models
Authors: Slanicay Martin 
Published: July 2014

Abstract
In this paper I present the historical, theoretical and empirical background of DSGE models. I show that the fundament of these models lies in optimizing agents framework and argue which impulses fueled the development of DSGE models. I demonstrate the evolution of DSGE models with an accent on the role and effects of the monetary policy, using distinction between RBC models and New Keynesian models. I explain the paradigm shift from the RBC models to the New Keynesian models by pointing out the main pitfalls of the RBC models and showing how adding nominal rigidities to the otherwise standard RBC models enhances empirical properties of these models. I also discuss how nominal rigidities are modeled in New Keynesian DSGE models and what the pros and cons of different approaches are. Finally, I review the most important New Keynesian theories of nominal rigidities and some of the empirical evidence on price and wage rigidities
Comparison of Urban and Suburban Rail Transport in Germany and in the Czech Republic
Authors: Seidenglanz Daniel , Chvátal Filip , Nedvedová Katerina 
Published: July 2014

Abstract
Rail transport is an environmentally friendly form of passenger transport which can be utilized effectively also in urban and suburban transport systems. The paper describes the urban and suburban rail transport system including comparison of selected Czech (Prague, Brno and Ostrava) and German metropolitan regions (Munich, Nuremberg and Dresden). Its aim is to analyze the importance of various factors influencing the differences between the situation in Germany and in the Czech Republic. Therefore, the research question is whether these differences are primarily caused by a different liberalization stage, or whether they are a result of other factors such as available infrastructure, investment level, rail transport services budget, structure and activity of ordering bodies and coordinators or geographical context. The supply of city and suburban rail transport is quite good in Germany and in the Czech Republic, although trains in Munich, Nuremberg and Dresden run more frequently, faster and are better interconnected with car transport. German rail transport sector is at a higher stage of liberalization, and tendering procedures are the preferred selection method for contractor carriers. However, a degree of liberalization of the railway sector is not the key marker indicating a better standard of urban and suburban rail transport in Germany because it is the high standard which is achieved as the consequence of the professional activity of the ordering bodies and train service coordinators in combination with geographical conditions, available financial sources and effective transport infrastructure. On the other hand, the importance of liberalization cannot be totally overlooked as tenders are a tool for the ordering bodies to strongly affect the price and quality of transport services in their area. The supply of better quality and attractive transport to passengers could increase the usage of rail transport in metropolitan regions and could have indirect but important socio-economic impacts
Endovascular management of dural fistulas into the cavernous sinus. A systematic review
Authors: Moscote-Salazar Luis Rafael , Zenteno Marco , Santos-Franco Jorge A. , Duarte-Valdivieso Nancy Carolina , Alvis-Miranda Hernando Raphael , Lee Angel 
Published: July 2014

Abstract
Background: Dural fistula to the cavernous sinus (DFCS) is an infrequent pathology that consists in the anomalous communication between the meningeal branches of the internal carotid artery (ICA) and/or the external carotid artery (ECA) and the cavernous sinus. Aim: To perform a systematic review to evaluate clinical and imaging findings in DFCS, and current indications for treatment.
Methods: A literature search was performed in several medical databases using the keywords “intracranial dural fistula”, “carotid-cavernous fistula”, “endovascular treatment”, associated with “outcome”; resulting articles were assessed by considering factors such as: number of patients treated, type of material used, complications, and type of image technique used for diagnosis.
Results: 33 articles were selected, yielding: clinical and imaging: The symptoms are basically related to the type of venous drainage of the fistula. The combination of ocular symptoms and tinnitus is highly suggestive of DFCS. Ocular symptoms are found in 80-97% of patients, while the tinnitus is present in up to 50% of cases. The imaging method for initial assessment of the DFCS is the magnetic resonance imaging. Digital subtraction angiography is the method of choice to determine adequately the precise angioarchitecture of the injury and its drainage. This data is of vital importance in future decision making. Treatment: Currently are considered as indications for the management of DFCS: 1) rapidly progressive deterioration of visual function, 2) angiographic evidence of abnormal cortical venous drainage, 3) the hypoxic consequences in retina and optic nerve, and 4) ischemic keratitis; the most suitable materials for embolization of the DFCS are CA and PAP.
Conclusion: DFCS stills being an uncommon cerebrovascular condition, with good outcomes from endovascular treatment.
Spinal meningiomas. Personal experience and review of literature
Authors: Iacob G. 
Published: July 2014

Abstract
Background: to present personal experience in the surgical management of spinal meningiomas, also the literature results review too.
Methods: 32 patients (4 men and 28 women) harboring spinal meningiomas who had undergone microsurgical resection were treated between 2002 and 2012 in our department. Clinical presentation, diagnosis, histological examination, microsurgical resection, functional outcome were evaluated, defining potential prognosis factors associated with these lesions.
Results: tumors site was intradural, extramedullary with different topography: the most common the thoracic region, posterolateral and antero-lateral. In all cases neurologic improvement was noted after operation, without instability, despite the extent of preoperative deficits. Transient motor deficits were observed in 2 thoracal anterior placed tumors without mortality. In 2 cases with semimaligne meningioma (6,25%) recurrence was noted at one and two years after first operation, initial diagnosis was transitional type meningioma.
Conclusion: benign spinal meningiomas should have always early diagnosis and microsurgical total resection for a good outcome. For semimalignant or even malignant cases, radiotherapy should be considered.
Traumatic pseudoaneurysm of Superficial Temporal Artery - a case report with review of literature
Authors: Jain Saurabh , Sharma Vinod , Mittal R.S. 
Published: July 2014

Abstract
Superficial temporal artery (STA) pseudoaneurysm is uncommon and usually is the result of trauma to the front temporal region. The appearance of a pulsatile preauricular mass chronologically related to trauma is highly suggestive of the diagnosis. Here we discuss a case of trauma to head presented with pseudoaneurysm of frontal branch of temporal artery and its management.
Predicting Response to Motor Control Exercises and Graded Activity for Patients With Low Back Pain: Preplanned Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Macedo Luciana Gazzi , Maher Christopher G. , Hancock Mark J. , Kamper Steve J. , McAuley James H. , Stanton Tasha R. , Stafford Ryan , Hodges Paul W. 
Published: July 2014

BackgroundCurrent treatments for low back pain have small effects. A research priority is to identify patient characteristics associated with larger effects for specific interventions.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to identify simple clinical characteristics of patients with chronic low back pain who would benefit more from either motor control exercises or graded activity.DesignThis study was a secondary analysis of the results of a randomized controlled trial.MethodsOne hundred seventy-two patients with chronic low back pain were enrolled in the trial, which was conducted in Australian physical therapy clinics. The treatment consisted of 12 initial exercise sessions over an 8-week period and booster sessions at 4 and 10 months following randomization. The putative effect modifiers (psychosocial features, physical activity level, walking tolerance, and self-reported signs of clinical instability) were measured at baseline. Measures of pain and function (both measured on a 0–10 scale) were taken at baseline and at 2, 6, and 12 months by a blinded assessor.ResultsSelf-reported clinical instability was a statistically significant and clinically important modifier of treatment response for 12-month function (interaction: 2.72; 95% confidence interval=1.39 to 4.06). Participants with high scores on the clinical instability questionnaire (≥9) did 0.76 points better with motor control exercises, whereas those who had low scores (&lt;9) did 1.93 points better with graded activity. Most other effect modifiers investigated did not appear to be useful in identifying preferential response to exercise type.LimitationsThe psychometric properties of the instability questionnaire have not been fully tested.ConclusionsA simple 15-item questionnaire of features considered indicative of clinical instability can identify patients who respond best to either motor control exercises or graded activity.
Management Of Childhood Lichen Planus
Authors: Thapa DM , Malathi M 
Published: July 2014

Childhood lichen planus (LP) is a rare entity, with less than 2–3% of all cases seen in patients under 20 years of age. LP in childhood is common in subtropical countries such as India. The most common clinical type of LP in Indian children is the classic form. Approximately 1–15% of patients with LP demonstrate nail involvement, but disease of the nails without skin involvement is rare. LP is diagnosed by historical and physical findings, biopsy results, and, in some cases, features on direct immunofluorescence (DIF). LP tends to have a chronic course. Depending on disease severity, however, LP may respond to a combination of topical or systemic therapies. The response to therapy may be similar to that seen in adults. Moderately potent or super potent steroids are the treatment of choice. Topical steroids can be combined with oral steroids in tapering doses over 2-12 weeks period. This is useful for children with widespread involvement or cutaneous LP lesions associated with significant morbidity. Intralesional steroid is effective for hypertrophic LP unresponsive to topical steroids. Topical steroids in adhesive base used several times a day for several months is a treatment of choice for symptomatic oral LP. Topical steroids in combination with systemic steroids can be given in a tapering dose over 3-6 weeks in very symptomatic cases in early stages. In severe unresponsive cases of both cutaneous and oral LP, oral retnoids are the preferred option. Treatment options for the nail LP in young children are oral steroids given as tapering dose over 4-12 weeks and oral retinoids. Intralesional steroids as nail matrix injection are the third option for older children. Most pediatric patients with LP respond to treatment with full clearance over 1-6 months. Poor response to treatment is a feature of hypertrophic LP and lichen planopilaris. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njdvl.v12i1.10588 Nepal Journal of Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology Vol.12(1) 2014 pp.1-6
Understanding Of Nepalese Patients With Vitiligo About Their Disease
Authors: Agrawal S , Kumar A , Shyngwa PM 
Published: July 2014

Introduction: Vitiligo, a pigmentary disorder, may influence considerably patients’ health-related quality of life (QoL) and psychological wellbeing. Previous reports indicated that the patients' illness understandings influence adherence behaviors and actions in various chronic dermatological conditions. Objectives: To know the understanding of Nepalese patients with vitiligo about their disease by using illness perception questionnaire and also to investigate the potential factors that might influence it. Material and Methods: The illness perception questionnaire consisting of 25 questions about causes, timeline, consequences and control of disease were given to 154 patients with vitiligo of 13 years or more age attending the dermatology OPD. Results: A total of 146 patients completed the questionnaire. The belief about the causes of vitiligo was considered as “germs or virus” by 64.4% patients while half of the patients believed that vitiligo was due to “chance or fate”. Vitiligo was considered to be a serious condition (83.6%) and have had serious consequences on their life (63%). Approximately half of the patients believed that their disease had serious economic and financial consequences more so in female patients and in those with generalized disease. Although 43.8% patients believed that their illness was likely to be permanent rather than temporary, 75% patients believed that vitiligo would improve with the time and their treatments were effective (75.3%). However, females felt that there were very little that could be done to improve their vitiligo. Conclusion: The knowledge about vitiligo is unsatisfactory and needs accessible, accurate, community based education about the natural history of vitiligo and the effectiveness of treatment. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njdvl.v12i1.10590 Nepal Journal of Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology Vol.12(1) 2014 pp.7-13
Pattern Of Sexually Transmitted Infections And Sexual Behavior In Patients With Genital Symptoms
Authors: Gyawalee M , Pokhrel DB 
Published: July 2014

Background: Sexually transmitted infections are a major cause of acute illness, infertility, long-term disability, economic loss and death throughout the world. Despite the availability of effective treatment and preventive measures, incidence of STIs is increasing even in developed countries. STIs, acting as a facilitator for the spread of HIV have become a globally important issue at present context. Objectives: To determine the pattern of sexually transmitted infections along with their sexual behaviour in patients presenting with genital symptoms. Material and Methods: A cross sectional, descriptive study was carried out in the department of dermato-venereology, TUTH. During one year period, a total of 130 consecutive cases were enrolled in this study. The diagnosis of infections was made clinically with relevant laboratory investigations and they were interviewed for their sexual behaviour after taking consent and assuring confidentiality. Results: The average age of this population was 27.84 years. Majority belonged to age group 15-24 years, with male to female ratio of 3.19:1. Many (52.3%) were married. The most common infection was condyloma accuminata (29.2%). The mean age of sex debut was 18.95 years and majority (50.8%) belonged to 15-19 years group. The median number of life time partners was 2.0. Only 43 (33.1%) were on monogamous relationship. The 15-34 age groups had maximum number of sexual partners. Married person living singly had more frequent extramarital contact. Only 10 (7.7%) used condom consistently. Conclusions: Younger people should be educated about monogamous relationship along with correct and consistent use of condom for the prevention of STIs DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njdvl.v12i1.10592 Nepal Journal of Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology Vol.12(1) 2014 pp.20-27
Henoch-Scholein Purpura (HSP): A Clinico-etiological Study
Authors: Kareem SN , Riyaz N 
Published: July 2014

Background: Henoch–Schönlein (HSP) is a small vessel vasculitis affecting skin and internal organs. Objectives: To determine the age group affected, etiological factors, clinical features, complications and association with other diseases. Methods: The study included 50 patients over a period of 3 years selected on the modified criteria by American College of Rheumatology. Clinical assessment was done and investigated for any focus of hidden infections especially Dental and ENT by respective departments. Associated conditions, complications and recurrence were also observed. Results: All patients had palpable purpura (pruritic in 58% and with hemorrhagic bullae in 6%) with upper respiratory tract prodrome (44%), joint involvement (94%) and gastrointestinal symptoms (90%). Precipitating factors were sore throat (74%), caries tooth (44%), drugs (30%) and food (16%) in varying combinations. On investigation 56% had raised ESR and 22% were with abnormal peripheral smears. All biopsies showed leucocytoclastic vasculitis. Occult blood in stool was detected in 10% and 2% showed Streptococci in throat swab culture. Renal involvement was 54% (RBC and albumin-42%, RBC alone-12%). One patient had intestinal perforation. Bleeding time, Clotting time, Platelet count, Cryoglobulin, ANA, Rheumatoid factor, HBs Ag, VDRL and X-ray chest were within normal limits. LE cell test was negative. Follow up study showed recurrence in 98%. Conclusion: HSP is a small vessel vasculitis in response to any unknown foreign or endogenous antigen. The age of onset varied from below 7 to 58 years, with most of them below 20. The most important clinical presentation was palpable purpura in lower extremities. GIT and joint involvement were more. Renal involvement found to be the most common complication. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njdvl.v12i1.10593 Nepal Journal of Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology Vol.12(1) 2014 pp.28-33
Dermatologic Manifestations In Chronic Kidney Disease Patients On Hemodialysis
Authors: Shrestha P , Mathur M 
Published: July 2014

Introduction: Dermatologic changes are frequently seen in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. Early identification of these manifestations helps timely institution of treatment and prevention of progression of CKD. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency and pattern of dermatologic problems among CKD patients who are on maintenance hemodialysis in our population. Material and Methods: A hospital based cross sectional comparative study was conducted. Fifty patients with CKD on hemodialysis were compared with the same number of non CKD patients. All the patients were clinically examined. Complementary diagnostic measures such as skin biopsy, gram stain, potassium hydroxide mounting and culture sensitivity of the lesions were carried out when necessary. Results: At least one dermatologic manifestation was present in 86% of the patients and changes were seen commonly in CKD patients who had GFR <15ml/min (83.8%). Cutaneous manifestations were significantly associated with CKD patients than control (p<0.001) but not with the duration of CKD and duration of hemodialysis. Thirty seven patients (74%) were having cutaneous lesions, commonest being xerosis (52%) followed by pruritus (40%) and hyperpigmentation (32%). Nail, mucous membrane and hair changes were present in 56%, 22% and 12% respectively, commonest being white nail (30%), furred tongue (18%), telogen effluvium (10%) respectively. Conclusion: In our study, dermatologic manifestations were common in CKD patients with GFR <15ml/min. Cutaneous and nail changes were seen in 74% and 56% of the CKD patients undergoing hemodialysis, commonest changes being xerosis and white nail respectively. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njdvl.v12i1.10594 Nepal Journal of Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology Vol.12(1) 2014 pp.34-40