bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A New Navigational Tool for Pedicle Screw Placement in Patients With Severe Scoliosis
Authors: Putzier Michael , Strube Patrick , Cecchinato Riccardo , Lamartina Claudio , Hoff Eike K. 
Published: November 2014

Study Design:
Pilot study.

Objective:
To develop and validate the feasibility and accuracy of a newly designed navigational spinal instrument guiding tool for patient-matched thoracic and lumbar pedicle screw placement in patients with severe scoliosis, and to identify intraoperative challenges that may be relevant.

Summary of Background Data:
Pedicle screw placement is challenging in severely rotated scoliotic spine with small diameters and asymmetrical shape of the pedicles and vertebrae. Patient-specific drill/positioning guides with preplanned trajectory have been developed as a promising solution in spinal surgery for precise screw insertion.

Methods:
In 4 patients with severe scoliosis, navigational templates and models of all vertebrae to be instrumented were manufactured using a computed tomography (CT)-based 3-dimensional model of the thoracic and lumbar spine. The guides were designed differently for thoracic and lumbar segments according to the individual anatomy to achieve an optimal coupling to the surface of the patient’s spine, to maximize the stability of the device itself, and to increase user friendliness for the complete screw positioning process. Intraoperative challenges and opportunities for device and process improvements regarding the handling of the guides during the surgery were recorded. Postoperatively, the intrapedicular screw positions were evaluated versus the preoperative plan and evaluated for cortical violation based on CT scans.

Results:
A total of 76 pedicle screws were implanted (56 thoracic, 20 lumbar). Two screws (2.6%) were assessed to be misplaced intraoperatively and repositioned. Eighty-four percent of the pedicle screws were completely intrapedicular, 96.1% within <2 mm cortical breech. CT scans did not demonstrate medial pedicle violation, or misplaced screw contact to neurovascular structures. No screw-related clinical complaints were reported postoperatively.

Conclusions:
The new custom-made positioning guide is a feasible navigational tool that permits a safe and accurate implantation of pedicle screws in patients with severe scoliosis.
Efficacy of Poly(d,l-Lactic Acid-co-Glycolic acid)-Poly(Ethylene Glycol)-Poly(d,l-Lactic Acid-co-Glycolic Acid) Thermogel As a Barrier to Prevent Spinal Epidural Fibrosis in a Postlaminectomy Rat Model
Authors: Li Xiangqian , Chen Lin , Lin Hong , Cao Luping , Cheng Ji’an , Dong Jian , Yu Lin , Ding Jiandong 
Published: November 2014

Study Design:
Experimental animal study.

Objective:
The authors conducted a study to determine the efficacy and safety of the poly(d,l-lactic acid-co-glycolic acid)-poly(ethylene glycol)-poly(d,l-lactic acid-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA-PEG-PLGA) thermogel to prevent peridural fibrosis in an adult rat laminectomy model.

Summary of Background Data:
Peridural fibrosis often occurs after spinal laminectomy. It might cause persistent back and/or leg pain postoperatively and make a reoperation more difficult and dangerous. Various materials have been used to prevent epidural fibrosis, but only limited success has been achieved.

Materials and Methods:
The PLGA-PEG-PLGA thermogel was synthesized by us. Total L3 laminectomies were performed on 24 rats. The PLGA-PEG-PLGA thermogel or chitosan (CHS) gel (a positive control group) was applied to the operative sites in a blinded manner. In the control group, the L3 laminectomy was performed and the defect was irrigated with the NS solution 3 times. All the rats were killed 4 weeks after the surgery.

Results:
The cytotoxicity of this thermogel was evaluated in vitro and the result demonstrated that no evidence of cytotoxicity was observed. The extent of epidural fibrosis, the area of epidural fibrosis, and the density of the fibroblasts and blood vessel were evaluated histologically. There were statistical differences among the PLGA-PEG-PLGA thermogel or CHS gel group compared with the control group. Although there was no difference between the PLGA-PEG-PLGA thermogel and CHS gel, the efficiency of the PLGA-PEG-PLGA thermogel was shown to be slightly improved compared with the CHS gel.

Conclusions:
The biocompatibility of the PLGA-PEG-PLGA thermogel was proven well. The application of this thermogel effectively reduced epidural scarring and prevented the subsequent adhesion to the dura mater. No side effects were noted in the rats.
The effect of sulfur dioxide on iron, copper and brass
Authors: Kilinççeker Güray , Taze Nurşen , Galip Hasan , Yazici Birgül 
Published: November 2014

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to study, under laboratory conditions, the corrosive effect of sulfur dioxide (SO2) present in the atmosphere of urban and industrial areas on various construction materials.Design/methodology/approachIron, copper and brass metals were exposed to SO2 gas at different relative humidities that were obtained using analytical grade glycerol and water mixtures. The corrosion rates (mdd) of the samples were determined over 120 h using the weight‐loss method under fixed relative humidity (rH) conditions. The change of galvanic current was measured as a function of exposure time over 196 h. Nyquist diagrams were obtained in 10−3 M Na2SO4 solutions with a pH value of 7.2, which was assumed to correspond to 100 percent rH conditions.FindingsThe obtained data showed that the corrosion rate of the studied metals increased with increasing rH. The corrosion rate of the metals decreased with exposure time, due to accumulation of corrosion products over the surface of the metals. However, the surface films of corrosion products on the metal surfaces were not stable and the corrosion rate increased again with time when the surface film disappeared.Research limitations/implicationsThe atmospheric corrosion of the industrial materials is dependent upon the rH and SO2 concentration. The corrosive effect of SO2 present in the atmosphere of urban and industrial areas on various construction materials can be tested under laboratory conditions.Originality/valueThe effects of SO2 and NH3 on the atmospheric corrosion of galvanized iron and the effect of rH on the atmospheric corrosion of defective organic coating materials were reported in literature. In this study, the corrosive effect of SO2 present in the atmosphere of urban and industrial areas on various construction materials (iron, copper and brass) under laboratory conditions was studied.
Impact of JIT‐selling strategy on organizational structure
Authors: Green Kenneth W. , Inman R. Anthony , Birou Laura M. 
Published: November 2014

PurposeThis study aims to assess the impact of a JIT‐selling strategy on organizational structure by generally replicating the previous work of Germain et al.Design/methodology/approachIn contrast to the sample population of logistics managers surveyed by Germain et al. this research draws on data from manufacturing executives with marketing responsibilities. More importantly, a major limitation of the earlier research, use of a single‐item scale measurement of the JIT‐selling construct, is overcome. A structural equation modeling approach was used to assess the impact of JIT‐selling on the organizational structure dimensions of integration, performance control, specialization, and decentralization.FindingsGermain et al. found that JIT‐selling impacts performance control, specialization, and scheduling decentralization but not integration. While the results of this study support earlier findings that JIT‐selling impacts performance control and specialization, the results alternately find support for a relationship between JIT‐selling and integration and refute the previous finding that JIT‐selling is related to decentralization.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings generally support the proposition that adoption of a JIT‐selling strategy will result in changes in organizational structure.Practical implicationsManufacturing managers working to strengthen relationships with customers through a JIT‐selling approach should prepare for organizational change in terms of increased integration, performance control, and specialization.Originality/valueJIT strategies are being used to strengthen the operations/marketing interface within the manufacturing sector. Specifically, this study assesses the impact of the JIT‐selling strategy on organizational structure in an effort to verify the work of Germain et al.
From determinism to probabilistic analysis and stochastic simulation
Authors: Doltsinis I. 
Published: November 2014

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to expose computational methods as applied to engineering systems and evolutionary processes with randomness in external actions and inherent parameters.Design/methodology/approachIn total, two approaches are distinguished that rely on solvers from deterministic algorithms. Probabilistic analysis is referred to as the approximation of the response by a Taylor series expansion about the mean input. Alternatively, stochastic simulation implies random sampling of the input and statistical evaluation of the output.FindingsBeyond the characterization of random response, methods of reliability assessment are discussed. Concepts of design improvement are presented. Optimization for robustness diminishes the sensitivity of the system to fluctuating parameters.Practical implicationsDeterministic algorithms available for the primary problem are utilized for stochastic analysis by statistical Monte Carlo sampling. The computational effort for the repeated solution of the primary problem depends on the variability of the system and is usually high. Alternatively, the analytic Taylor series expansion requires extension of the primary solver to the computation of derivatives of the response with respect to the random input. The method is restricted to the computation of output mean values and variances/covariances, with the effort determined by the amount of the random input. The results of the two methods are comparable within the domain of applicability.Originality/valueThe present account addresses the main issues related to the presence of randomness in engineering systems and processes. They comprise the analysis of stochastic systems, reliability, design improvement, optimization and robustness against randomness of the data. The analytical Taylor approach is contrasted to the statistical Monte Carlo sampling throughout. In both cases, algorithms known from the primary, deterministic problem are the starting point of stochastic treatment. The reader benefits from the comprehensive presentation of the matter in a concise manner.
The use of magnetic nanoparticles in low frequency inductive hyperthermia
Authors: Miaskowski Arkadiusz , Sawicki Bartosz , Krawczyk Andrzej 
Published: November 2014

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present the basic ideas of magnetic nanoparticles' usage in the breast cancer treatment, which is called magnetic fluid hyperthermia. The proposed approach offers a relatively simple methodology of energy deposition, allowing an adequate temperature control at the target tissue, in this case a cancerous one. By means of a numerical method the authors aim to investigate two heating effects caused by varying magnetic fields, i.e. to compare the power density heating effects of eddy currents and magnetic nanoparticles.Design/methodology/approachIn order to numerically investigate the combination of the overheating effect of magnetic nanoparticles and eddy currents, the Finite Element Method solver based on FEniCS project has been prepared. To include the magnetic fluid in the model it has been assumed that power losses in the magnetic nanoparticles are completely converted into heat, according to experimentally developed formula. That formula can be interpreted as the hysteresis losses with regard to the volume of magnetic fluid. Finally, the total power density has been calculated as the product of the sum of power density from eddy currents and hysteresis losses. That methodology has been applied to calculate the effectiveness of magnetic fluid hyperthermia with regard to the female breast phantom.FindingsThe paper presents the methodology which can be used in magnetic fluid hyperthermia therapy planning and Computer Aid Diagnosis (CAD). Furthermore, it is shown how to overcome one of the most serious engineering challenges connected with hyperthermia, i.e. achieving adequate temperature in deep tumors without overheating the body surface.Practical implicationsThe obtained results connected with the assessment of eddy currents effect suggest that during hyperthermia treatment the configuration which consists of an exciting coil and human body, plays a curial role. Moreover, the authors believe that these results will help to predict the skin surface overheating that accompanies deep heating. The presented methodology can be used by engineers in the development of Computer Aid Diagnosis systems.Originality/valueIn a given patient's situation a number of choices must be made to determine the parameters of the hyperthermia treatment. These include the need of multiple‐point temperature measurements for accurate and thorough monitoring. Treatment planning will require accurate characterization of the applicator deposition pattern and the tissue parameters, as well as the numerical techniques to predict the resultant heating pattern. The presented paper shows how to overcome these problems from the numerical point of view at least.
Parameter identification of Jiles‐Atherton model using SFLA
Authors: Naghizadeh Ramezan‐Ali , Vahidi Behrooz , Hossein Hosseinian Seyed 
Published: November 2014

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to implement a simple, fast and accurate heuristic method for parameter determination of Jiles‐Atherton (JA) hysteresis model for representing magnetization in electrical steel sheets. The performance of the method is validated using measured data and comparison with previous methods.Design/methodology/approachJA model requires five parameters to represent the hysteretic behavior of ferromagnetic materials. In order to determine these parameters, measured hysteresis loop is used here to calculate a fitness function which is defined by comparing the measured and simulated magnetization loops. This fitness function is minimized by optimization algorithms.FindingsIn total, four different measured hysteresis loops are studied in this paper. Each optimization algorithm is executed 50 times to investigate the convergence, speed, and accuracy of six methods. All methods begin with the same randomly generated initial parameters. Physical boundaries are used for parameters to avoid unaccepted results. Thorough examination of results shows that the proposed method is more appropriate than previously implemented methods for the parameter determination of Jiles‐Atherton model in all studied cases. The required parameters for each optimization method are also presented.Originality/valueShuffled frog leaping algorithm (SFLA) is implemented for the first time for JA model parameter determination. The results show that SFLA is faster and more accurate in comparison with other methods. Furthermore, this algorithm is easy to implement and tune.
Assessing interfirm collaboration/technology investment tradeoffs
Authors: Glenn Richey R. , Autry Chad W. 
Published: November 2014

PurposeThe current research considers the possibility that when firms are faced with a challenging supply chain task or opportunity for supply chain operational improvement, they choose varying degrees of technology and/or collaboration as the primary vehicle(s) with which to forge a solution. This choice is suggested herein to depend largely on technological readiness, i.e. the extent to which the firm embraces available technological solutions. Furthermore, the learning capability of the firm moderates the inverse relationship between interfirm collaboration and technological readiness, such that firms having strong organizational learning capabilities are less likely to choose a collaboration‐intensive solution than those with weak learning capabilities. This paper aims to address these issues.Design/methodology/approachA sample of retail supply chain managers drawn from the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals membership database is surveyed related to their firms' levels of interfirm collaboration, organizational learning capabilities, and technological readiness. Two multiple moderated regression variants are used to test the hypotheses.FindingsResults of this research support the hypothesized logic, and implications for practice are presented in light of a revealed inverse relationship between technological readiness and interfirm collaboration that is exacerbated when the firm has a strong learning orientation.Originality/valueThis paper is among the first known to examine potential internal/external tradeoffs between collaboration and technology as problem‐solving vehicles. Both managers and researchers should find it interesting that collaboration is neither wholly desirable nor necessary (and therefore the associated risks mitigated) in technologically ready and/or high learning capability environments.
Health care professionals' views about supporting patients' self‐management
Authors: Mikkonen Irma , Hynynen Marja‐Anneli 
Published: November 2014

PurposeThe aim of this study was to describe nurses' and other health care professionals' views about their patient education skills and how to develop them.Design/methodology/approachThe data for the study were collected from the participants of the online education course on patient education. The data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis.FindingsThe results show that, in the experience of health care professionals, it is important to make a shift from the professional‐led education and counselling towards an education relationship in which the professional and the patient are equals and represent different kinds of expertise and to develop patient education towards patient‐centredness supporting the patients' self‐management.Research limitations/implicationsThe sample used in the research is small.Practical implicationsThe participants in this study experienced that, as patient educators, it is necessary for them to acknowledge their own abilities, beliefs and values in order to be able to develop their patient education skills. This is noteworthy because appreciating and acknowledging the importance of reflection is one prerequisite for the paradigm shift from the traditional patient education model towards patient‐centred education. Consequently, it is important to investigate further the best ways of facilitating the development of health care professionals' skills with regard to patient‐centred education.Originality/valueThe study showed that, through education and training, health care professionals can recognize the need to develop their patient education towards patient‐centredness.
Psychology and interviewing: what direction now in our quest for reliable information?
Authors: Oxburgh Gavin E. , Dando Coral J. 
Published: November 2014

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to discuss two distinct but interrelated areas, namely witness/victim and suspect interviewing, and to argue that both must continue to evolve, suggest how they might do so, and that this process must be driven by emergent theory and contemporary empirical research.Design/methodology/approachThe paper outlines the impact of psychological theory and empirical research to investigative interviewing in recent decades.FindingsIt is argued that in order to stay ahead of the game, the field of investigative interviewing (suspect and witness) must continue to evolve in such a manner that not only protects and fosters the important practitioner/academic relationship, but also ensures that future directions are driven by empirical research, with recourse to emergent theory.Originality/valueThe paper outlines the impact of psychological theory and empirical research on investigative interviewing and the consequent enhancement of the interviewing of both suspected offenders and witnesses. The paper demonstrates that working closely together academic research can make a difference, and influence law, policy decisions and training guidelines in order to improve practice.
Childhood maltreatment and mental disorders among Finnish prisoners
Authors: Viitanen Päivi , Vartiainen Heikki , Aarnio Jorma , von Gruenewaldt Virpi , Lintonen Tomi , Mattila Aino K. , Wuolijoki Terhi , Joukamaa Matti 
Published: November 2014

PurposeIn a health survey of Finnish prisoners in 2006, the authors aimed to study frequency and gender differences in childhood physical and sexual abuse, and the connections of maltreatment in childhood to substance abuse and mental health among female and male prisoners.Design/methodology/approachThe sample consisted of 101 female prisoners, with 309 male prisoners for comparison. The subjects participated in a comprehensive field study consisting of several questionnaires, interviews, the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM‐IV Axis I and II Disorders (SCID I, II) and a clinical medical examination including ICD‐10 diagnoses.FindingsBoth forms of abuse were more common among females than males (childhood physical abuse 25 per cent versus 15 per cent and childhood sexual abuse 32 per cent versus 7 per cent). Associations of childhood abuse with substance abuse and mental health were different among males and females. Family integrity was important only for males and in connection with drug dependence and antisocial personality disorder. The gender differences did not concur with those reported in studies on general populations.Originality/valueThis is a part of the first comprehensive health survey of Finnish prisoners.
Overview of natural gas sector developments in Trinidad and Tobago
Authors: Furlonge Haydn , Kaiser Mark 
Published: November 2014

PurposeWith over 100 years of commercial activity, Trinidad and Tobago's energy sector has demonstrated significant growth and dynamism. This paper aims to provide a historical account of gas sector developments and seeks to decipher the motivating factors and key policy positions of the government.Design/methodology/approachA review of policy framing documents in the gas sector is conducted. These are juxtaposed with historical information on hydrocarbon production, level of foreign direct investment and State participation. The impact on the country's economy in terms of energy revenues and gross domestic product (GDP) is also examined.FindingsOver the period 1962‐2007, daily average hydrocarbon production increased eightfold to 800,000 barrels of oil equivalent due mostly to natural gas. Total energy revenues and GDP have grown significantly. Contributing factors include an evolving fiscal regime to attract foreign investment, strategic State investments, joint venture arrangements, monopoly gas transmission and merchant roles and an effective institutional framework. Government stewardship, market forces and private sector investment moulded the sector. Recent measures include revisions to the fiscal regime and sector diversification aimed at sustaining the industry.Originality/valueEnergy sector developments of this small island economy have largely escaped the purview of the mainstream academic literature. Trinidad and Tobago's energy policy has not been well articulated or documented, and this paper serves to act as a springboard for further studies which may provide policy direction for other countries.