bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Standards for reporting randomized controlled trials in neurosurgery
Authors: Kiehna Erin N. , Starke Robert M. , Pouratian Nader , Dumont Aaron S. 
Published: November 2010

Object
The Consolidated Standards for Reporting of Trials (CONSORT) criteria were published in 1996 to standardize the reporting and improve the quality of clinical trials. Despite having been endorsed by major medical journals and shown to improve the quality of reported trials, neurosurgical journals have yet to formally adopt these reporting criteria. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the quality and reporting of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in neurosurgery and the factors that may affect the quality of reported trials.

Methods
The authors evaluated all neurosurgical RCTs published in 2006 and 2007 in the principal neurosurgical journals (Journal of Neurosurgery; Neurosurgery; Surgical Neurology; Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry; and Acta Neurochirurgica) and in 3 leading general medical journals (Journal of the American Medical Association, Lancet, and the New England Journal of Medicine). Randomized controlled trials that addressed operative decision making or the treatment of neurosurgical patients were included in this analysis. The RCT quality was evaluated using the Jadad score and the CONSORT checklist.

Results
In 2006 and 2007, 27 RCTs relevant to intracranial neurosurgery were reported. Of these trials, only 59% had a Jadad score ≥ 3. The 3 major medical journals all endorsed the CONSORT guidelines, while none of the neurosurgical journals have adopted these guidelines. Randomized controlled trials published in the 3 major medical journals had a significantly higher mean CONSORT score (mean 41, range 39–44) compared with those published in neurosurgical journals (mean 26.4, range 17–38; p < 0.0001). Jadad scores were also significantly higher for the major medical journals (mean 3.42, range 2–5) than neurosurgical journals (mean 2.45, range 1–5; p = 0.05).

Conclusions
Despite the growing volume of RCTs in neurosurgery, the quality of reporting of these trials remains suboptimal, especially in the neurosurgical journals. Improved awareness of the CONSORT guidelines by journal editors, reviewers, and authors of these papers could improve the methodology and reporting of RCTs in neurosurgery.
Myocardial perfusion imaging using technetium-99m sestamibi in asymptomatic diabetic patients
Authors: Mohagheghie A. , Ahmadabadi M. N. , Hedayat D. K. , Pourbehi M. R. , Assadi M. 
Published: November 2010

SummaryMyocardial perfusion single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) has been extensively applied in the clinical assessment of patients with diabetes mellitus. The aim of the present study was to evaluate stress technetium- 99m sestamibi SPECT MPI perfusion in silent myocardial ischemia and its association with some clinical and laboratory parameters in an asymptomatic diabetic population. Patients, material, methods: 83 subjects (age: 57.1 ± 6.9 years) with at least five years history of type 2 diabetes, and no suspected or documented coronary artery disease (CAD) accomplished myocardial perfusion imaging; angiography was also performed in patients with abnormal MPI. Results: MPI results showed that 58 patients had normal myocardial perfusion, while 25 patients showed perfusion defects (23 reversible and 2 fixed) on MPI. 12 out of the 25 (48%) with abnormal MPI findings represented abnormal angiography. We observed that pretest likelihood of CAD (odds ratio 2.32; 95%-CI: 1.05–5.13; p = 0.038) and higher HbA1c level (odds ratio 1.70; 95%-CI, 1.07–2.71; p = 0.02) were independently associated with abnormal MPI. Conclusion: Occult CAD was present on MPI in 1/3 patients with DM without abnormal electro cardiographic findings or evidence of peripheral arterial disease.
Incidence of Radiographic Unicompartmental Arthritis in Patients Undergoing Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Woolson Steven T. , Shu Beatrice , Giori Nicholas J. 
Published: November 2010

Unicompartmental knee arthroplasty is increasing in popularity with the advent of less invasive procedures for knee arthritis. The percentage of patients undergoing knee arthroplasty who could be candidates for unicompartmental knee arthroplasty depends on the surgeon’s evaluation of the radiographs, and this evaluation may depend on the surgeon’s bias regarding partial knee arthroplasty. A retrospective radiographic and chart review was performed on a consecutive series of patients who had undergone tricompartmental knee arthroplasty to determine the percentage of those patients who could have been candidates for unicompartmental knee arthroplasty. Two hundred eighty-eight patients who underwent 308 tricompartmental knee arthroplasties over a 3-year period at a Veteran’s Administration Hospital comprised the study group. Assessment of preoperative radiographs was done by 2 surgeons, 1 who favored unicompartmental knee arthroplasty and the other who preferred tricompartmental knee arthroplasty, to determine the percentage of these patients, from each surgeon’s viewpoint, who had unicompartmental arthritis. Patients who had radiographic unicompartmental arthritis were then eliminated as candidates for unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, if, on chart review, they had a flexion contracture >10°, an arc of motion <100°, or inflammatory arthritis.
The surgeon who was a proponent of unicompartmental knee arthroplasty found that 26% of these patients had acceptable radiologic and clinical indications for unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, whereas the surgeon who had a bias against the procedure felt that only 12% of these patients were unicompartmental knee arthroplasty candidates. A considerable percentage of Veteran’s Administration patients undergoing arthroplasty for knee arthritis may be potential candidates for unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, despite the surgeon’s bias for or against the procedure.
Evaluation of the Reliability of Classification Systems Used for Distal Radius Fractures
Authors: Kural Cemal , Sungur Ibrahim , Kaya Ibrahim , Ugras Akin , Ertürk Ahmet , Cetinus Ercan 
Published: November 2010

The objective of this investigation was to evaluate the reliability of classification systems by determining inter- and intraobserver agreement in displaced distal radius fractures.
Radiographs of 32 patients (21 men and 11 women with a mean age of 41.6 years) who presented with a displaced distal radius fracture were classified by 9 orthopedic surgeons (5–25 years experience) using 5 different classification systems (Fernandez, AO, Frykman, Melone, and Universal Classification systems) twice with 20-day intervals. The results were processed with kappa statistics and used in assessment of inter- and intraobserver agreement of the classification systems. When classification systems were compared, the highest kappa coefficient in intraobserver agreement was determined in Universal classification (0.621). Fernandez (0.474), AO (0.309), Frykman (0.305), and Melone classification systems (0.262) followed the Universal system respectively. Kappa statistical results were evaluated using the Landis Koch score system for the assessment of interobserver agreement. According to the Landis Koch score system, the results were insufficient in all classification systems. Fernandez classification system had the highest interobserver agreement (0.235) and Melone classification system had the lowest interobserver agreement (0.056).
According to the results of our study, the systems used to classify the displaced distal radial fractures are insufficient. A new classification system that ensures the 3-dimensional assessment of the fracture is more user-friendly and a high inter- and intraobserver agreement is necessary.
A Review of the Treatment of Opioid-induced Constipation with Methylnaltrexone Bromide
Authors: Abarca Francisco M. , Saclarides Theodore J. , Brand Marc I. 
Published: November 2010

ObjectivesReview and summarize the mechanism of action of methylnaltrexone bromide (methylnaltrexone) and its effectiveness in the treatment of opioid-induced constipation.Data SourceA multi-database search was conducted using PubMed and MEDLINE databases, in addition to electronic links to related articles and references.BackgroundOpioids are effective medications for the management of moderate to severe pain, but they are associated with a number of side effects, especially within the gastrointestinal system. Constipation is a very common adverse reaction in patients with late-stage, adverse illness, who require long term administration of opioids on a chronic basis to help alleviate pain. In April 2008, the Food and Drug Administration approved the use of methylnaltrexone, a quaternary derivative of naltrexone which does not cross the blood brain barrier, for the management of patients with opioid-induced constipation. Methylnaltrexone acts as a selective peripheral Mu-receptor antagonist, without affecting the effects of opioids on central analgesia.ConclusionsStudies have been shown that methylnaltrexone can be used safely in the treatment of opioid-induced constipation without either interfering with opioid effects on central anesthesia or precipitating opioid withdrawal.
Risperidone for Individuals with Refractory Schizophrenia
Authors: Subramanian Priya , Rudnick Abraham 
Published: November 2010

BackgroundRisperidone has been shown to be as effective as other atypical antipsychotic medications in the treatment of psychotic symptoms, but its effectiveness in refractory psychotic symptoms is unclear.ObjectiveIn this paper, we aim to review the available evidence related to the use of risperidone in refractory schizophrenia.MethodsEnglish language articles ranging from 1985 to 2009 (inclusive) were retrieved from Pubmed in December 2009 using the search terms ‘schizophrenia’, ‘refractory’, ‘resistant’, ‘risperidone’, ‘atypical’, ‘combination’ and ‘antipsychotic’.ResultsThe available literature is conflicting on the use of risperidone as an augmentation of clozapine or of other antipsychotics and methodological problems make drawing firm conclusions difficult. Studies using Risperidone Long Acting Injection have included both individuals with recent-onset schizophrenia and those with refractory schizophrenia, whch makes it difficult to interpret its effectiveness specifically for those with refractory schizophrenia. Risperidone may reduce potentially disabling cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia, but these effects do not differ significantly from that of other typical and atypical antipsychotic medications.ConclusionFurther and more rigorous research is required on risperidone for refractory schizophrenia.
Metal Exposure in the Children of Punjab, India
Authors: Blaurock-Busch E. , Friedle Albrecht , Godfrey Michael , Schulte-Uebbing Claus E.E. , Smit Carin 
Published: November 2010

Our test results documented that hair and urine mineral analysis results support each other. This is of interest, because hair analysis evaluates past exposure while urine analysis detects immediate exposure. We evaluated barium, cadmium, manganese, lead and uranium in hair and urine. Our test results indicate that all of the children show evidence of past and immediate exposure to one or more metals. Hair mineral test results for the 114 children aged 12 and younger showed some type of toxic metal exposure for each one of the children; 88% exceeded the uranium reference range for hair. This indicates past and chronic exposure. After renal evaluation, 55 children aged 3–12 years who passed certain criteria were selected for urine baseline testing. Urine baseline concentrations are a direct reflection of immediate exposure. Of the 55 children, 47 showed elevated urine concentrations for one or more of the toxins listed above, demonstrating immediate exposure. DMSA is recommended as an oral antidote for lead and other metals. We selected 55 children aged 3–12 for a DMSA (Dimercapto succinic acid) urine challenge test. Our results showed that 98% of this group showed lead concentrations above the baseline level, demonstrating lead binding and excretion. The DMSA challenge did not affect barium, cadmium, manganese and uranium, suggesting that for these elements, DMSA may not be the chelating agent of choice. In summary, hair and urine mineral testing demonstrated that chronic and immediate toxic exposure had affected our test group of Punjabi children. The DMSA challenge test was effective in detoxifying lead, but did not affect barium, cadmium, manganese or uranium.
Reducing Cardiovascular Risk in Patients following MI with Eplerenone
Authors: Rekhraj Sushma , Szwejkowski Benjamin , Struthers Allan 
Published: November 2010

Background In the event of an MI, the presence of LV systolic dysfunction with or without heart failure is associated with a poorer prognosis. Elevation of aldosterone levels also results in a poor prognosis after an MI. Objective This review discusses the cardiovascular benefits of blocking the aldosterone receptor using eplerenone therapy in post MI patients. Methods A literature search of Pubmed was conducted for relevant English language articles published between 1990–2010 using the search terms eplerenone, aldosterone, myocardial infarction, heart failure and endothelial dysfunction. Additional articles were obtained from reference lists of identified publications. Results Eplerenone is a selective aldosterone receptor blocker that has been shown by a landmark study, EPHESUS to reduce all cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality and heart failure admissions in post MI patients with LV systolic dysfunction and heart failure or diabetes. It blocks the damaging effects of aldosterone including LV remodeling, endothelial dysfunction and arrhythmogenicity. Due to its selective action, there are less sexual side effects compared with spironolactone therapy. However, a small risk of hyperkalemia and renal dysfunction is associated with eplerenone therapy. Conclusions Eplerenone therapy should be commenced for post MI patients with LV systolic dysfunction and heart failure or diabetes provided there are no contraindications.
Antiretroviral agents: Focus on Maraviroc for the Treatment of HIV-1-Infected Adults
Authors: Pett SL. , Emery S. , Kelleher AD. , Cooper DA. 
Published: November 2010

Over a decade has passed since several groups identified the chemokine receptors CXCR4 and CCR5 as key co-receptors for HIV entry. CCR5 is more important in HIV transmission and during the early course of HIV infection. It is also apparent that protection from HIV infection is afforded to those lacking CCR5–-the so called delta-32 homozygotes; in those heterozygous for this mutation, an attenuated course of HIV-infection is observed. Provocatively, those with modified expression of CCR5 are physiologically normal with the exception of poorer outcomes with some of the viral encephalitides specifically West Nile virus and Tick Borne encephalitis. The small molecule, orally-bioavailable CCR5 receptor antagonists, including, maraviroc (MVC), are allosteric inhibitors that lock the CCR5 receptor into a conformation such that the receptor is not able to bind HIV envelope protein; the molecules also variably block intracellular signalling induced by different receptor-binding chemokines. The aims of this review on the CCR5 receptor inhibitors are to summarise information relevant to treatment in individuals with HIV-1 infection. Data from the licensing studies, the side-effect profile and putative long-term risks of CCR5 receptor inhibitor exposure, tropism testing and mechanisms of resistance will be reviewed. The potential for using this class of agent as an immunomodulating agent will be detailed. Given that MVC is the only licensed drug in this class at present and reflecting the greater body of work describing this agent, the majority of information in this review relates to MVC. Last, the authors propose the place of MVC in the hierarchy of HIV therapy and future opportunities for research.
Islet amyloid polypeptide acts on glucose‐ stimulated beta cells to reduce voltage‐gated calcium channel activation, intracellular Ca2+ concentration, and insulin secretion
Authors: Zhu Tiehong , Wang Yinxia , He Bingjun , Zang Jingjing , He Qing , Zhang Weihua 
Published: November 2010

AbstractObjectiveThe mechanism by which islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP) inhibits insulin release is unclear. We hypothesized that reduced voltage‐gated calcium channel activity and intracellular Ca2+ concentration might contribute to IAPP‐mediated inhibition of glucose‐stimulated insulin release.Research design and methodsRat islet beta cells were cultured and treated with various extracellular concentrations of IAPP, and insulin release was stimulated via addition of glucose. Activation voltage, high voltage‐gated calcium channel currents, intracellular Ca2+ concentration, and insulin secretion were detected by patch clamp electrophysiology, fluorescent digital imaging microscopy using calcium‐sensitive fluorescent dye, and radioimmunoassay, respectively.ResultsHigh voltage‐gated calcium channel currents, intracellular Ca2+ concentration, and insulin secretion increased in a dose‐dependent manner when rat beta cells were exposed to glucose. After short‐term IAPP treatment (5 or 10 µM), these parameters decreased significantly in glucose‐stimulated beta cells. However, no significant changes were observed with lower doses of IAPP.ConclusionsGlucose‐stimulated islet beta‐cell high voltage‐gated calcium channels were activated in conjunction with insulin secretion, while high extracellular concentrations of IAPP inhibited beta‐cell high voltage‐gated calcium channel activation and insulin secretion in a dose‐dependent manner. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A nested benders decomposition approach for telecommunication network planning
Authors: Naoum‐Sawaya Joe , Elhedhli Samir 
Published: November 2010

AbstractDespite its ability to result in more effective network plans, the telecommunication network planning problem with signal‐to‐interference ratio constraints gained less attention than the power‐based one because of its complexity. In this article, we provide an exact solution method for this class of problems that combines combinatorial Benders decomposition, classical Benders decomposition, and valid cuts in a nested way. Combinatorial Benders decomposition is first applied, leading to a binary master problem and a mixed integer subproblem. The subproblem is then decomposed using classical Benders decomposition. The algorithm is enhanced using valid cuts that are generated at the classical Benders subproblem and are added to the combinatorial Benders master problem. The valid cuts proved efficient in reducing the number of times the combinatorial Benders master problem is solved and in reducing the overall computational time. More than 120 instances of the W‐CDMA network planning problem ranging from 20 demand points and 10 base stations to 140 demand points and 30 base stations are solved to optimality. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics, 2010
Stock management in the presence of significant measurement delays
Authors: Yasarcan Hakan 
Published: November 2010

AbstractThe stock management studies in the system dynamics literature implicitly or explicitly assume that measurement delays are negligible. This assumption may be true in some cases but it will not hold in all cases. As a matter of fact, either long or short, measurement delays are always present in dynamic feedback control systems. In this paper, two stock management problems, which incorporate significant delays in measuring the stock level, are considered: the first problem does not have a supply line delay, while the second problem does. For the second problem, we further assume that the level of the supply line cannot be directly measured. The standard anchor‐and‐adjust heuristic creates unstable oscillations in both cases due to the delay involved in accessing the value of the stock. On the other hand, the improved decision‐making heuristic introduced in this paper creates a stable and fast response in the dynamic behavior of the stock because it accounts for the fact that the information is delayed. Copyright © 2010 System Dynamics Society.
Revisiting Nori's question and homotopy invariance of Euler class groups
Authors: Das Mrinal Kanti 
Published: November 2010

AbstractThis paper examines the relation between the Euler class group of a Noetherian ring and the Euler class group of its polynomial extension. When the ring is a smooth affine domain, the two groups are canonically isomorphic. This is a consequence of a theorem of Bhatwadekar-Sridharan, which they proved in order to answer a question of Nori on sections of projective modules over such rings. If the smoothness assumption is removed, the result of Bhatwadekar-Sridharan is no longer valid and also the Euler class groups above are not in general isomorphic. In this paper we investigate a variant of Nori's question for arbitrary Noetherian rings and derive several consequences to understand the relation between various groups in the theory of Euler classes.
Corporate Governance and Institutional Ownership
Authors: Chung Kee H. , Zhang Hao 
Published: November 2010

AbstractIn this study we examine the relation between corporate governance and institutional ownership. Our empirical results show that the fraction of a company’s shares that are held by institutional investors increases with the quality of its governance structure. In a similar vein, we show that the proportion of institutions that hold a firm’s shares increases with its governance quality. Our results are robust to different estimation methods and alternative model specifications. These results are consistent with the conjecture that institutional investors gravitate to stocks of companies with good governance structure to meet fiduciary responsibility as well as to minimize monitoring and exit costs.
Benchmarking as a means to improve conservation practice
Authors: Sutherland William J. , Peel Michael J. S. 
Published: November 2010

AbstractBenchmarking, the comparison of efficiency measures of an organization against those of other organizations, is widely used in industry, medical practice and agriculture as a means of learning where practice can be improved. This could be used by conservationists for routine repeatable activities, such as the treatment of invasive species or the survival rate of transplanted plants. We give three examples of the benefits of cross-site comparisons: grazing management in South Africa, husbandry of captive penguins and management of lagoons for wading birds. Benchmarking, by comparing effectiveness with others, is the initial stage in identifying weaknesses and leads on to learning how to improve through cross-site comparisons, comparisons with better performers or examination of the published literature. We suggest that the term best practice, which is often used as part of benchmarking, is unsuitable as it implies a comparison of all options, which rarely takes place, and it is subject to change as knowledge and techniques develop. An alternative term is current effective practice.