bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transplantation of Bone Marrow-Derived Stem Cells: A Promising Therapy for Stroke
Authors: Tang Yamei , Yasuhara Takao , Hara Koichi , Matsukawa Noriyuki , Maki Mina , Yu Guolong , Xu Lin , Hess David C. , Borlongan Cesario V.
Published: September 2018

Stroke remains a major cause of death in the US and around the world. Over the last decade, stem cell therapy has been introduced as an experimental treatment for stroke. Transplantation of stem cells or progenitors into the injured site to replace the nonfunctional cells, and enhancement of proliferation or differentiation of endogenous stem or progenitor cells stand as the two major cell-based strategies. Potential sources of stem/progenitor cells for stroke include fetal neural stem cells, embryonic stem cells, neuroteratocarcinoma cells, umbilical cord blood-derived nonhematopoietic stem cells, and bone marrow-derived stem cells. The goal of this article is to provide an update on the preclinical use of bone marrow-derived stem cells with major emphasis on mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and multipotent adult progenitor cells (MAPCs) because they are currently most widely applied in experimental stroke studies and are now being phased into early clinical trials. The phenotypic features of MSCs and MAPCs, as well as their application in stroke, are described.
Umbilical Cord Blood Research: Current and Future Perspectives
Authors: Newcomb Jennifer D. , Sanberg Paul R. , Klasko Stephen K. , Willing Alison E.
Published: September 2018

Umbilical cord blood (UCB) banking has become a new obstetrical trend. It offers expectant parents a biological insurance policy that can be used in the event of a child or family member's life-threatening illness and puts patients in a position of control over their own treatment options. However, its graduation to conventional therapy in the clinical realm relies on breakthrough research that will prove its efficacy for a range of ailments. Expanding the multipotent cells found within the mononuclear fraction of UCB so that adequate dosing can be achieved, effectively expanding desired cells ex vivo, establishing its safety and limitations in HLA-mismatched recipients, defining its mechanisms of action, and proving its utility in a wide variety of both rare and common illnesses and diseases are a few of the challenges left to tackle. Nevertheless, the field is moving fast and new UCB-based therapies are on the horizon.
Intracerebral Transplantation of Genetically Engineered Cells for Parkinson's Disease: Toward Clinical Application
Authors: Yasuhara Takao , Date Isao
Published: September 2018

Over the last decade, molecular biology has progressively developed, leading to new technology with subsequent clinical application for various cerebral diseases including Parkinson's disease (PD), one of the most investigated neurodegenerative disorders. The therapy for PD is mainly composed of medication, including drug replacement therapy, surgical treatment, and cell transplantation. Cell therapy for PD has been explored by using fetal nigral cells as an allo- or xenograft, autologous sympathetic ganglion, adrenal medulla, and carotid body in clinical settings. In addition, neurotrophic factors, including glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), have a strong potency to rescue degenerating dopaminergic cells. Protein and/or gene therapy also might be a therapeutic option for PD. In this review, genetically engineered cell transplantation for animal models of PD, including catecholamine/neurotrophic factor-secreting cell transplantation with or without encapsulation, as performed in our laboratories, and their potential future as clinical applications are described with recent clinical studies in this field.
Intraputamenal Infusion of Exogenous Neurturin Protein Restores Motor and Dopaminergic Function in the Globus Pallidus of MPTP-Lesioned Rhesus Monkeys
Authors: Grondin R. , Zhang Z. , Ai Y. , Ding F. , Walton A. A. , Surgener S. P. , Gerhardt G. A. , Gash D. M.
Published: September 2018

The neurorestorative effects of exogenous neurturin (NTN) delivered directly into the putamen via multiport catheters were studied in 10 MPTP-lesioned rhesus monkeys expressing stable parkinsonism. The parkinsonian animals were blindly assigned to receive coded solutions containing either vehicle (n = 5) or NTN (n = 5, 30 μg/day). Both solutions were coinfused with heparin using convection-enhanced delivery for 3 months. The NTN recipients showed a significant and sustained behavioral improvement in their parkinsonian features during the treatment period, an effect not seen in the vehicle-treated animals. At study termination, locomotor activity levels were increased by 50% in the NTN versus vehicle recipients. Also, DOPAC levels were significantly increased by 150% ipsilateral (right) to NTN infusion in the globus pallidus, while HVA levels were elevated bilaterally in the NTN-treated animals by 10% on the left and 67% on the right hemisphere. No significant changes in DA function were seen in the putamen. Volumetric analysis of putamenal NTN labeling showed between-subject variation, with tissue distribution ranging from 214 to 744 mm3, approximately equivalent to 27–93% of area coverage. Our results support the concept that intraparenchymal delivery of NTN protein may be effective for the treatment of PD. More studies are needed to determine strategies that would enhance tissue distribution of exogenous NTN protein, which could contribute to optimize its trophic effects in the parkinsonian brain.
GDNF-Secreting Human Neural Progenitor Cells Increase Tyrosine Hydroxylase and VMAT2 Expression in MPTP-Treated Cynomolgus Monkeys
Authors: Emborg Marina E. , Ebert Allison D. , Moirano Jeff , Peng Sun , Suzuki Masatoshi , Capowski Elizabeth , Joers Valerie , Roitberg Ben Z. , Aebischer Patrick , Svendsen Clive N.
Published: September 2018

Human neural progenitor cells (hNPCs) have been proposed as a potential source of cells for ex vivo gene therapy. In this pilot study, three 5-year-old female cynomolgus monkeys received a single intracarotid infusion of MPTP, followed 1 week later by MRI-guided stereotaxic intrastriatal and intranigral injections of male hNPCs transgenic for GDNF. Immunosupression with oral cyclosporine (30–40 mg/kg) began 48 h before hNPC transplants and continued throughout the study. We monitored the animals using a clinical rating scale (CRS). Three months postsurgery, we euthanized the animals by transcardiac perfusion, then retrieved and processed their brains for morphological analysis. Our findings include the following. 1) hNPCs survived and produced GDNF in all animals 3 months postsurgery. 2) hNPCs remained in the areas of injection as observed by GDNF immunostaining and in situ hybridization for the human Y chromosome. 3) A “halo” of GDNF expression was observed diffusing from the center of the graft out into the surrounding area. 4) We observed increased TH- and VMAT2-positive fibers in areas of GDNF delivery in two of the three animals. The two animals with TH- and VMAT2-positive fibers also showed reductions in their CRS scores. 5) Some GFAP-positive perivascular cuffing was found in transplanted areas. 6) General blood chemistry and necropsies did not reveal any abnormalities. Therefore, we conclude that hNPCs releasing GDNF may be a possible alternative for intracerebral trophic factor delivery in Parkinson's disease.
Neuroinflammation and Peripheral Immune Infiltration in Parkinson's Disease: An Autoimmune Hypothesis
Authors: Monahan Angela J. , Warren Michael , Carvey Paul M.
Published: September 2018

Despite decades of research and the development of a large group of animal models, our understanding of the mechanisms responsible for the progressive loss of dopamine neurons in Parkinson's disease (PD) is unknown. So-called neuroprotective studies demonstrate that a vast group of molecules readily attenuate the dopamine (DA) neuron loss produced by DA neurotoxin insult. Despite these successes, these neuroprotective strategies have been surprisingly ineffective in patients. This may reflect the fact that the initial pathogenic event and the subsequent disease progression is a consequence of different mechanisms. As we began to think about this disconnect, we discovered that animals exposed to DA neurotoxins exhibited blood–brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction. If the BBB in PD patients is disrupted, then the barrier that normally segregates peripheral vascular factors from brain parenchyma is no longer present. Immune cells could then enter brain and produce a self-perpetuating (progressive) degenerative process. In this review, we propose that peripheral immunity contributes to the degenerative process of PD and may be responsible for the progressive nature of the disease. This hypothesis is supported by a broad and diverse literature that is just beginning to come together to suggest that PD is, in part, an autoimmune disease. In order to understand this hypothesis, the reader must question the conventional wisdom that the BBB is intact in PD, the brain is an immune privileged area, and that pathogenic insult and disease progression may reflect different mechanisms.
Intratracheal Transplantation of Human Umbilical Cord Blood-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Dose-Dependently Attenuates Hyperoxia-Induced Lung Injury in Neonatal Rats
Authors: Chang Yun Sil , Choi Soo Jin , Sung Dong Kyung , Kim Soo Yoon , Oh Wonil , Yang Yoon Sun , Park Won Soon
Published: September 2018

Intratracheal transplantation of human umbilical cord blood (UCB)-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) attenuates the hyperoxia-induced neonatal lung injury. The aim of this preclinical translation study was to optimize the dose of human UCB-derived MSCs in attenuating hyperoxia-induced lung injury in newborn rats. Newborn Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly exposed to hyperoxia (95% oxygen) or normoxia after birth for 14 days. Three different doses of human UCB-derived MSCs, 5 × 103(HT1), 5 × 104(HT2), and 5 × 105(HT3), were delivered intratracheally at postnatal day (P) 5. At P14, lungs were harvested for analyses including morphometry for alveolarization, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining, myeoloperoxidase activity, mRNA level of tumor necross factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), human glyceradehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), and p47phox, and collagen levels. Increases in TUNEL-positive cells were attenuated in all transplantation groups. However, hyperoxia-induced lung injuries, such as reduced alveolarization, as evidenced by increased mean linear intercept and mean alveolar volume, and increased collagen levels were significantly attenuated in both HT2 and HT3, but not in HT1, with better attenuation in HT3 than in HT2. Dose-dependent human GAPDH expression, indicative of the presence of human RNA in lung tissue, was observed only in the transplantation groups, with higher expression in HT3 than in HT2, and higher expression in HT2 than in HT1. Hyperoxia-induced inflammatory responses such as increased myeloperoxidase acitivity, mRNA levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and TGF-β of the lung tissue, and upregulation of both cytosolic and membrane p47phox, indicative of oxidative stress, were significantly attenuated in both HT2 and HT3 but not in HT1. These results demonstrate that intratracheal transplantation of human UCB-derived MSCs with appropriate doses may attenuate hyperoxia-induced lung injury through active involvement of these cells in modulating host inflammatory responses and oxidative stress in neonatal rats.
Upper Limits on the Rapid Cooling of the Central Compact Object in Cas A
Authors: Posselt B. , Pavlov G. G.
Published: September 2018

The Central Compact Object (CCO) in the Cassiopeia A supernova remnant is most likely a very young (≈300 years) neutron star. If a previously reported decrease of its surface temperature by 4% in 10 years could be confirmed, it would have profound theoretical implications for neutron-star physics. However, the temperature decrease was inferred from Chandra ACIS data affected by instrumental effects that could cause time-dependent spectral distortions. Employing a different instrument setup that minimizes spectral distortions, our 2006 and 2012 Chandra spectra of the CCO did not show a statistically significant temperature decrease. Here, we present additional observations from 2015 taken in the same instrument mode. During the time span of 8.5 years, we detect no significant temperature decrease, using either carbon or hydrogen atmosphere models in the X-ray spectral fits. Our conservative 3σ upper limits correspond to <3.3% and <2.4% temperature decreases in 10 years for carbon atmosphere model fits with varying or constant values of the absorbing hydrogen column density, respectively. The recently revised model for the ACIS filter contaminant has a strong effect on the fit results, reducing the significance of the previously reported temperature and flux changes. We expect that a further improved contaminant model and longer time coverage can significantly lower the upper limits in the future.
An Analytical Portrait of Binary Mergers in Hierarchical Triple Systems
Authors: Randall Lisa , Xianyu Zhong-Zhi
Published: September 2018

With better statistics and precision, eccentricity could prove to be a useful tool for understanding the origin and environment of binary black holes. Hierarchical triples in particular, which might be abundant in globular clusters and galactic nuclei, could generate observably large eccentricity at LIGO and future gravitational wave detectors. Measuring the eccentricity distribution accurately could help us probe the background and the formation of the mergers. In this paper we continue our previous investigation and improve our semianalytical description of the eccentricity distribution of mergers of hierarchical triple systems. Our result, which further reduces the reliance on numerical simulations, could be useful for statistically distinguishing different formation channels of observed binary mergers.
On the CGM Fundamental Plane: The Halo Mass Dependency of Circumgalactic H i
Authors: Bordoloi Rongmon , Prochaska J. Xavier , Tumlinson Jason , Werk Jessica K. , Tripp Todd M. , Burchett Joseph N.
Published: September 2018

We analyze the equivalent widths of H i

(

) absorption from the inner (R < 160 kpc) circumgalactic medium (CGM) of 85 galaxies at z ∼ 0 with stellar masses M
* ranging

. Across three orders of magnitude in stellar mass, the CGM of present-day galaxies exhibits a very high covering fraction of cool hydrogen gas (f

C
 = 87 ± 4%) indicating that the CGM is ubiquitous in modern, isolated galaxies. When H i

is detected, its equivalent width declines with increasing radius regardless of the galaxy mass, but the scatter in this trend correlates closely with M
*. Using the radial and stellar mass correlations, we construct a planar surface describing the cool CGM of modern galaxies:

. The rms scatter around this bivariate relation is ∼0.2 dex. We interpret the explicit correlation between

and M* to arise from the underlying dark matter halo mass (M
halo), thereby suggesting a CGM fundamental plane between

, R, and M
halo. This correlation can be used to estimate the underlying dark matter halo mass from observations of saturated H i

in the CGM of a modern galaxy.
Great differences in performance and outcome of high-throughput sequencing data analysis platforms for fungal metabarcoding
Authors: Anslan Sten , Nilsson R. Henrik , Wurzbacher Christian , Baldrian Petr , Tedersoo Leho , Bahram Mohammad
Published: September 2018

Along with recent developments in high-throughput sequencing (HTS) technologies and thus fast accumulation of HTS data, there has been a growing need and interest for developing tools for HTS data processing and communication. In particular, a number of bioinformatics tools have been designed for analysing metabarcoding data, each with specific features, assumptions and outputs. To evaluate the potential effect of the application of different bioinformatics workflow on the results, we compared the performance of different analysis platforms on two contrasting high-throughput sequencing data sets. Our analysis revealed that the computation time, quality of error filtering and hence output of specific bioinformatics process largely depends on the platform used. Our results show that none of the bioinformatics workflows appears to perfectly filter out the accumulated errors and generate Operational Taxonomic Units, although PipeCraft, LotuS and PIPITS perform better than QIIME2 and Galaxy for the tested fungal amplicon dataset. We conclude that the output of each platform requires manual validation of the OTUs by examining the taxonomy assignment values.
Effect of combined bifidobacteria supplementation and resistance training on cognitive function, body composition and bowel habits of healthy elderly subjects
Authors: Inoue T. , Kobayashi Y. , Mori N. , Sakagawa M. , Xiao J.-Z. , Moritani T. , Sakane N. , Nagai N.
Published: September 2018

Physical exercise exerts favourable effects on brain health and quality of life of the elderly; some of these positive health effects are induced by the modulation of microbiota composition. We therefore conducted a randomised, double blind, placebo-controlled trial that assessed whether a combination of Bifidobacterium spp. supplementation and moderate resistance training improved the cognitive function and other health-related parameters in healthy elderly subjects. Over a 12-week period, 38 participants (66-78 years) underwent resistance training and were assigned to the probiotic Bifidobacterium supplementation (n=20; 1.25×1010 cfu each of Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum BB536, B. longum subsp. infantis M-63, Bifidobacterium breve M-16V and B. breve B-3) or the placebo (n=18) group. At baseline and at 12 weeks, we assessed the cognitive function, using the Japanese version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment instrument (MoCA-J); modified flanker task scores; depression-anxiety scores; body composition; and bowel habits. At 12 weeks, the MoCA-J scores showed a significant increase in both the groups, while the flanker task scores of the probiotic group increased more significantly than those of the placebo group (0.35±0.9 vs -0.29±1.1, P=0.056). Only the probiotic group showed a significant decrease in the depression-anxiety scores (5.2±6.3 to 3.4±5.5, P=0.012) and body mass index (24.0±2.8 to 23.5±2.8 kg/m2, P<0.001), with a significant increase in the defecation frequency (5.3±2.3 to 6.4±2.3 times/5 days, P=0.023) at 12 weeks. Thus, in healthy elderly subjects, combined probiotic bifidobacteria supplementation and moderate resistance training may improve the mental condition, body weight and bowel movement frequency.
Mind the gut: probiotics in paediatric neurogastroenterology
Authors: Salvatore S. , Pensabene L. , Borrelli O. , Saps M. , Thapar N. , Concolino D. , Staiano A. , Vandenplas Y.
Published: September 2018

The gut-brain axis has recently emerged as a key modulator of human health and the intestinal microbiome has a well-recognised pivotal role in this strong connection. The aim of this narrative review is to update and summarise the effect and clinical applicability of probiotics in paediatric neurogastroenterology. The Cochrane Database and PubMed were searched using keywords relating to different subtypes of functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) and their symptoms, those relating to the CNS and related neurological or behavioural dysfunction as well as ‘probiotic’ OR ’probiotics’. Included papers were limited to those including children (aged 0-18 years) and using English language. Although significant effects of specific strains have been reported in infants with FGIDs, heterogeneity amongst the studies (different products and concentrations used and FGID subtypes), has limited the ability to draw an overall conclusion on the clinical value of probiotics. According to different meta-analyses of randomised controlled trials, the use ofLactobacillus reuteri(DSM 17938) was associated with a significant decrease in average crying time in infantile colic. There is moderate evidence for this strain and LGG and limited evidence (based on one study each) for the beneficial effect of VSL#3 and a three-strain bifidobacteria mix in abdominal pain FGIDs, particularly in the irritable bowel disease subgroup of children, but not in functional dyspepsia. There is currently no clear evidence of positive effects of oral probiotics in autistic spectrum disorder. Efficacy and safety of other strains or beneficial effects in other conditions still need to be proven, as probiotic properties are strain-specific, and data cannot be extrapolated to other brain-gut or mood diseases or to other probiotics of the same or different species. To transform the use of probiotics from a tempting suggestion to a promising treatment modality in neurogastroenterological disorders more accurate differentiation of the efficacy-proven strains, clarification of dose, duration, and outcome and a careful selection of the target patients are still necessary.
Cyclopiazonic acid decreases sperm quality andin vitro fertilisation rate in mice
Authors: Bonyadi F. , Hasanzadeh S. , Malekinejad H. , Najafi G.
Published: September 2018

The presence of cyclopiazonic acid (CPA) as a mycotoxin has been reported in feed and foodstuffs. The aim of this investigation was to determine the effects of CPA on reproductive functions of male mice. In this experiment, 40 mature male mice were randomly assigned into five groups (n=8): control, control-sham, CPA (0.03 mg/kg, body weight (BW)), CPA (0.06 mg/kg, BW) and CPA (0.12 mg/kg, BW). Following 28 days exposure to CPA, sperm quality parameters,in vitrofertilisation (IVF) capacity of sperms, serum testosterone level, Leydig cells number and serum total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were analysed. The results revealed a significant (P<0.05) reduction in sperm count, sperm viability, sperm motility, chromatin quality of sperm, sperms with intact DNA, IVF rate, testosterone level, Leydig cell distribution and TAC in comparison to the control group. The most prominent detrimental effects of CPA were found at the highest given dose level. Our results suggest that CPA at higher dose levels exerts detrimental effects on the male reproductive system. Moreover, these descriptive warrant further investigations into the specific mechanisms of action and the effects of CPA on spermatogenesis.
Effective approach in making Capstone project a holistic learning experience to students of undergraduate computer science engineering program
Authors: N Deepamala , G Shobha
Published: September 2018

Final year or Capstone Project is an important and final phase of the undergraduate curriculum in Computer Science Engineering program. Final year project is a course where all the skills learnt by the students in previous semesters are applied and evaluated. The important aspects in the delivery of course are i) developing a model to train the students to deliver quality project work and documentation, ii) effective evaluation of the student based on rubrics which are mapped to course outcomes iii) Map the feedback from stakeholders as per graduate attributes and measure performance. This paper discusses the approach followed for three academic years 2014-2017 on a batch of 250 students per year. Training sessions, evaluation rubrics, usage of project management tools, mapping of their performance with the outcomes of the course and program, feedback from the stakeholders like companies and students themselves gives a clear view of improvement of the performance of the students after the Final Year Project course in three years.
Comparison of Corneal Tomography and a New Combined Tomographic Biomechanical Index in Subclinical Keratoconus
Authors: Chan Tommy C.Y. , Wang Yu Meng , Yu Marco , Jhanji Vishal
Published: September 2018

PURPOSE:

To investigate and compare the diagnostic ability of corneal tomography and biomechanical and combined parameters for detection of corneal ectasia.

METHODS:

Consecutive patients with subclinical keratoconus (SCKC) and age-matched controls were included. Only one eye from each patient was selected for analysis. The final D value from the Belin/Ambrósio Enhanced Ectasia Display (BAD) was obtained from the Pentacam (Oculus Optikgeräte, Wetzlar, Germany). The tomographic biomechanical index (TBI) was derived from the Pentacam and Corvis ST (Oculus Optikgeräte). Classification analysis between normal and subclinical keratoconus (SCKC) was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) and partial AUC (pAUC) with specificity of 80% or greater were compared.

RESULTS:

Twenty-three eyes with SCKC and 37 normal eyes were included. All Pentacam-derived parameters (
P
< .001) and all but two Corvis ST–derived parameters (
P
< .020) were significantly different between normal and SCKC eyes. A significant difference was found in the final D value (
P
≤ .020) and TBI (
P
≤ .040) between normal and SCKC eyes. For differentiating normal and SCKC eyes, TBI and BAD final D value demonstrated the highest AUC (0.925 and 0.786, respectively) and pAUC (0.150 and 0.088, respectively). TBI demonstrated 84.4% sensitivity and 82.4% specificity using a cut-off of 0.16. Comparative analysis between these parameters showed that AUC and pAUC of TBI were significantly higher than all parameters from Pentacam (
P
≤ .032).

CONCLUSIONS:

In the current study, combined use of tomographic and biomechanical parameters demonstrated a higher capability in differentiating normal and SCKC eyes when compared to tomographic analysis alone.

[
J Refract Surg.
2018;34(9):616–621.]
Outcomes of Re-treatment by LASIK After SMILE
Authors: Reinstein Dan Z. , Carp Glenn I. , Archer Timothy J. , Vida Ryan S.
Published: September 2018

PURPOSE:

To report the outcomes of LASIK re-treatments after small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE).

METHODS:

Retrospective review of all eyes to have undergone a re-treatment by LASIK after primary SMILE between September 2013 and January 2016. Thin-flap LASIK was used in most cases as long as sufficient tissue was available for safe flap creation between the maximum epithelial thickness and minimum cap thickness. Otherwise, the SMILE interface was converted into a LASIK flap by the Circle technique or side cut only. The multivariate nomogram for LASIK re-treatments was used, including sphere, cylinder, age, and primary spherical equivalent (SEQ) as variables. Patients were observed for 1 year after surgery and standard outcomes analysis was performed.

RESULTS:

A total of 116 LASIK re-treatments were performed in a population of 2,643 consecutive SMILE procedures, indicating a re-treatment rate of 4.39%. Mean attempted SEQ was −0.05 ± 0.99 diopters (D) (range: −1.88 to +1.50 D). Mean cylinder was −0.70 ± 0.55 D (range: 0.00 to −2.25 D). Postoperative uncorrected distance visual acuity was 20/20 or better in 81% of eyes, for a population with corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) of 20/20 or better in 95% before re-treatment. Mean postoperative SEQ relative to the target was +0.19 ± 0.49 D (range: −0.88 to +2.13 D), with 74% within ±0.50 D. Mean postoperative cylinder was −0.29 ± 0.24 D (range: 0.00 to −1.25 D). There was one line loss of CDVA in 15% of eyes, but no eyes lost two or more lines. There was a small increase in contrast sensitivity (
P
< .05). Overcorrection was identified in myopic re-treatments (n = 20) of −1.00 D or more; mean postoperative SEQ was +0.59 ± 0.64 D (range: −0.63 to +2.13 D).

CONCLUSIONS:

Re-treatment after SMILE by LASIK achieved excellent visual and refractive outcomes, although these results indicate that myopic LASIK retreatment after primary myopic SMILE requires a different nomogram than for myopic LASIK re-treatment after primary myopic LASIK.

[
J Refract Surg.
2018;34(9):578–588.]
Population Dynamics Model to Inform Harvest Management of a Small Elk Herd in Central New Mexico
Authors: DeVore Ryan M. , Butler Matthew J. , Wallace Mark C. , Liley Stewart G.
Published: September 2018

Crop depredation by wildlife is a frequent concern for natural resource managers and mitigation of this issue is often an important task for wildlife agencies. Elk Cervus elaphus and other ungulate species have depredated corn Zea mays at Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, New Mexico, USA, interfering with the ability of the Refuge to provide sufficient supplemental nutrition to overwintering sandhill cranes Antigone canadensis and geese (Anatidae). We estimated annual adult survival and calf recruitment rates of elk from 2011 to 2013 at Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge. Natural adult survival (excludes human-related mortalities) was high (mean = 98.3%; 95% CI = 95.0–100.0%). Calf recruitment was lower than in some populations, and ranged from 13.0 to 36.7 calves : 100 cows at time of recruitment (March and April) with a mean of 21.9 (SD =12.9). Using this information, we constructed a harvest management model to determine annual harvest quotas required to stabilize the growth of the elk herd on the Refuge. The female segment of the herd is growing at an annual rate of 9.0% (95% CI = −1.1–24.1%). To stabilize the growth rate of the female elk population, 8.0% (95% CI = −1.1–19.4%) of the cows would need to be harvested annually. We estimated an adult elk abundance of 40.0 (SE = 4.57; 95% CI = 33.8–52.6) in 2012 and 61.1 (SE = 7.21; 95% CI = 49.9–78.8) in 2013. Our harvest management model provides Refuge staff, who ultimately intend to improve corn yield, with valuable information needed to stabilize the elk herd. Further, our approach outlines a simple, easily implemented modeling technique that can be used for the management of other ungulate herds.
De Culturele en creatieve economie in het Brussels Hoofdstedelijk Gewest
Authors: Mauri Caterina , Vlegels Jef , Ysebaert Walter
Published: September 2018

Dit artikel is gericht op het beschrijven van de Culturele en Creatieve (CC) economie in het Brussels Hoofdstedelijk Gewest (BHG). Het biedt een solide basis voor discussies over dit deel van de economie en de beleidskeuzen die er invloed op hebben. Kijkend naar het aantal ondernemingen, omzet, toegevoegde waarde en werkgelegenheid voor de periode 2008-2014, is te zien dat het aandeel van de CC-economie in Brussel groter gebleven is dan in Vlaanderen en Wallonië, maar sneller is gekrompen dan in de andere gewesten. De delen van de CC-economie in Brussel die weerbaarder zijn gebleken onderscheiden zich door een hoge toegevoegde waarde per werknemer. Dit is met name het geval voor activiteiten met een hoog aandeel aan culturele en creatieve inhoud zoals podiumkunsten, de audiovisuele sector en de sectoren reclame en architectuur. Deze activiteiten zijn het ook die zorgen dat Brussel zich ten opzichte van de andere gewesten onderscheidt. Gewestelijke verschillen, met name voor sectoren als de audiovisuele, zijn mogelijk te verklaren door het sterker verstedelijkte karakter van Brussel in verhouding tot de andere gewesten en door haar rol als hoofdstad.
L’économie culturelle et créative dans la Région de Bruxelles-Capitale
Authors: Mauri Caterina , Vlegels Jef , Ysebaert Walter
Published: September 2018

Le but de cet article est de décrire l’économie culturelle et créative (CC) dans la Région de Bruxelles-Capitale (RBC). Il fournit une base de discussions de cette partie de l’économie et des choix politiques qui influencent celle-ci. L’examen du nombre de firmes, du chiffre d’affaires, de la valeur ajoutée ou de l’emploi pour la période 2008-2014 montre que la part de l’économie CC est restée plus importante à Bruxelles qu’en Flandre et en Wallonie, mais qu’elle y a aussi diminué plus rapidement que dans les deux autres régions. Les secteurs de l’économie CC de Bruxelles qui ont été les plus réactifs se distinguent par une haute valeur ajoutée par travailleur. C’est le cas, en particulier, pour les secteurs au contenu culturel et créatif important, tels que les arts de la scène, l’audiovisuel, la publicité et l’architecture. C’est aussi dans ces activités que Bruxelles résiste mieux que les autres régions. Les différences régionales, en particulier dans les secteurs tels que l’audiovisuel, pourraient s’expliquer par le caractère plus urbain de Bruxelles, et aussi par son rôle de capitale.
Ascertaining Requisite Metacognitive Elements of Input through the Exploration of Language Learners' Cognitive Characteristics
Authors: Rathnayake W. M. P. Y. B.
Published: September 2018

Cognitive theory emphasizes language learning as a conscious and reasoned thinking process involved in the use of deliberate learning strategies. Exploration of the cognitive characteristics of learner provides benchmarks  to dene metacognitive components required, thus easing the planning of input in an English as Second Language (ESL) classroom. In view of espousing deliberate learning strategies in input, this study identies due metacognitive components for ESL input upon diagnosing the cognitive characteristics of learners. The research questions include, what cognitive strategies learners do possess, what correlative natures are visible in cognitive strategies in learner possession, and which metacognitive components are to be espoused in ESL input. Proposing a questionnaire aligned with the taxonomy of metacognition, its viability for investigating prevalent learner cognitive/metacognitive characteristics is tested. The survey among 110 engineering undergraduates provides qualitative data about learner traits re ective of metacognitive behaviors. Responses were collected in a Likert scale corresponding to a dened metacognitive scale, and the cumulative means of the responses against each aspect of metacognition are stratied in a radar chart forming the learner portfolio of metacognitive strategy in use. Correlative tests are executed among prevailing cognitive traits seeking evidences for the unied nature of learner metacognitive behaviours. Results proved the prevalence of metacognitive strategies through evidences of learners' metacognitive feelings and judgements besides a proven correlation among planning, monitoring and control behaviors towards enabling metacognitive feelings/judgements. Precision of the diagnostic tool and the cohesive visibility of the metacognitive portfolio remain signicant results with opportunity for further research.
Dirge of the Fallen Woman in European Literature: When Religion Turns Sour and Evil to Make the Innocent Female Soul Suppressed
Authors: Wickramasinghe Indiwaree Poornima
Published: September 2018

This paper examines the portrayal of the fallen woman depicted in French and English literature with close reference to Denis Diderot's The Nun (La Religieuse-1760-96) and Thomas Hardy's Tess of the D'Urbervilles (1891). Denis Diderot's The Nun is an excellent historical novel which endeavors to show the functioning of the European families during an era when the Catholic Church and Christian faith had ample power over the rhythm of life, family inheritances and marriage. It paints with great vivacity the cry of a young girl who had to enter into the cruel, inhuman world of religion against her will but with abnegation. Similarly, Thomas Hardy's Tess of the D'Urbervilles depicts the downtrodden rights of the women in Victorian era and their distress occurred due to the society, family and the Catholic Church. Tess who is as the same age as of Suzanne in The Nun goes through a similar pain and distress and both of them break down under the weight of tough conditions in life. The church which is expected to be the cure, stands as a whammy in these young girls' lives. The aim of this paper is to analyse the way the distrust of Roman Catholicism was depicted in 18th century French novel and in its 19th century English counterpart. What more, this study focuses on the in uence of 18th century French literature over the 19th century English literature and how Denis Diderot's portrayal of Catholic Church is re ected in Hardy's Tess of the D'Urbervilles.
Enhancement of Gymnastic Movements with Utilizing Strain of Parallel Bars
Authors: Chandana A. W. S. , Wangang Lv , Mingnong Yi , Xubo Wei
Published: September 2018

Gymnasts use a special movement pattern for particular long swing movements to gain optimum elastic energy of parallel bars to complete long swing movements artistically. Therefore it is essential to study body dynamics as well as the dynamic properties of exercise apparatus to minimize the execution errors. In the present study, performance of long swing movement under the parallel bars by national level gymnast of China (mass 50.4 kg) were evaluated. The time history of middle points of wooden bars and all joint angles were measured using a system of ten high speed cameras (100 Hz). The ViconT40 digitizing software was used to find all coordinates of reflective markers (14 mm) which were attached on parallel bar-gymnast system. Based on the overall readings, a 3D mathematical model for the parallel bars apparatus was developed using four damped spring-mass model (Kx = 28601 N.m-1, KY = 10830 and KZ = 19101 N.m-1) with linear displacement-force characteristics. A gymnast (50.4 kg) applied maximum horizontal force (Fx=584 N) to perform `long swing double tucked saltos' to upper arm support on the parallel bars. In this time, the particular vertical force (Fz) and arm angle (a) with X-axis are 488 N and 730 3' respectively. This 3D model can demonstrate dynamic properties of the parallel bars interacting with any long swing movement for any gymnast.
Heideggerian `Out-of-Joint' Situation and New Horizons in Postcolonial Literature: Interpreting the Zizekian `Extimacy' in The Mimic Men by V.S. Naipaul
Authors: Hapugoda Mahesh
Published: September 2018

Though Naipaul's geo-spatial dislocation from periphery to centre generates an optical distance that helps observe postcolonial reality objectively, he simultaneously attaches to the reality that he initially left behind. This can be termed `ex-timated' ctionalization, where the inner is intimately ex-centred with outer. This sense rises from Naipaul's territorial dislocation that does not indicate a decisive ontological detachment from the postcolonial reality that he is alienated with. His de-territorialization is unable to fully embrace the new metropolitan reality and forget the former completely, as shown mainly in ctional characters i.e. Salim (A Bend in the River) and Ralph Singh (The Mimic Men). This review considers The Mimic Mento explore this postcolonial situation, even though the symptom is visible even in his other novels, where major characters are positioned between tradition and modernity that emerged from post-colonial reality. While accepting the fact that his repetitive literary revisits to postcolonial Asia and Africa could provide the objective reality within the failed project of decolonization, a Zizekian analysis suggests that Naipaul could not eectively elevate himself from his Heidaggerian `out-of-joint' situation and exploit his `homelessness' to discover a better reality. Instead, he is ex-timately conned to an `ex-static' (or ex-centric) postcolonial situation that leaves him in the deadlock of `de-personalized objective narrations' and `situational consciousness' of Third World Literature. On the basis of the said extimated alienation of Naipaul's existential literary endeavor, this review suggests that to understand the postcolonial situation better, Zizek's idea of extimacy is of substantial signicance.
Web-based Decision Support System to Evaluate the Living Conditions: A Case Study of the Colombo City
Authors: Ekanayaka E. M. R. D. , Perera G. S. N.
Published: September 2018

Colombo city hosts almost eight hundred thousand people from various parts of the world and it is one of the fastest growing cities in the Asian continent. The city subjects to heavy migration because of urbanization. Due to this reason, the living conditions also vary from place to place in the city. The immigrants are often concerned about their mobility and accessibility to different civic services. Hence, selection of a living area becomes an important factor for an inhabitant physically, mentally and financially. However, systematic methodology has not been implemented to evaluate these living conditions. This study explicates utilizing of hotspot analysis and Network Analysis extension of ArcGIS to extrapolate crime and the accessibility to six fundamental civic services including education, healthcare, public parks, shopping centres and emergency response (fire fighting and ambulance) from different neighbourhoods of the city. Weighted overlay approach is utilized to aggregate above the criteria and find the most inhabitable neighbourhoods in the city. The study indicates the best area as “neighbourhoods with least crime and easiest accessibility to all mentioned fundamental services”. Accessibility to each civic service is calculated by the service area and converted to a raster data which further aggregates them into a single raster using the above mentioned weighted overlay approach. After exporting the graphical model as a python script, the system is further developed to handle and return the dynamic influence rate based on the user inputs and ultimately the user obtains results for the best area. Then, the generated map automatically gets uploaded into the geo-server and the users can view the final liveability map on a dedicated web platform. Based on the approaches such as network analysis, multi criteria evaluation and decision support system, this study assists in selecting a neighbourhood on the basis of selected criteria by a particular user and also helps urban planners to identify design gaps in urban areas related to each criteria.
Editorial
Authors: Whiting Diana M.
Published: September 2018

No abstract available.
A new theory on the relationship of stuttering and handedness
Authors: Samuels Patricia R.
Published: September 2018

No abstract available.
Early Versus Late Trail of Catheter Removal in Patients with Urinary Retention Secondary to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia under Tamsulosin Treatment
Authors: Salem Mohamed Salem Hassan , El Ebiary Mohamed Fathy , Badr Mohamed Mabrouk
Published: September 2018

Objective:

The main objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of early and late removal of urinary catheter after acute urine retention (AUR) in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) under tamsulosin treatment on the success of trial without catheter (TWOC).

Materials and Methods:

This is a prospective randomized study, 60 men with AUR secondary to BPH, after fulfilling the inclusion criteria in the absence of the exclusion criteria of the study were catheterized and then were randomly assigned to receive 0.4 mg tamsulosin hydrochloride for 3 days or 7 days, after that the catheter was removed and the ability to void unaided assessed.

Results:

Eighteen men taking tamsulosin for 3 days and 21 patients taking tamsulosin for 7 days did not require recatheterization on the day of the TWOC (60% and 70%, respectively, P = 0.417). Complication as urinary tract infection, urine leakage, hematuria, or catheter obstruction occurred in five (16.7%) men who received tamsulosin for 3 days and 13 (43.3%) men who received tamsulosin for 7 days (P = 0.024).

Conclusions:

Men catheterized for AUR can void successfully after catheter removal if treated with alpha-1 blockade, and success rate of TWOC is controversial regarding the duration of catheterization. However, the complications were increased with period of catheterization.
The Impact of Body Mass Index on the Stone Composition of 191 Patients Who Received Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy in a Single Hospital
Authors: Kang Li-Meng , Lu Yen-Man , Cheng Wei-Tung , Chien Tsu-Ming , Chou Yii-Her , Wu Wen-Jeng , Li Ching-Chia
Published: September 2018

Objective:

We aimed to analyze the renal stone composition and evaluate the epidemiology of body mass index (BMI) and renal stones.

Materials and Methods:

We conducted a retrospective, single-center study of patients with large stones ([Latin Small Letter LEZH] cm) who underwent percutaneous nephrolithotomy for renal stones between 2010 and 2015. We performed stone analysis using stereomicroscopy and infrared spectroscopy to determine the chemical composition of these stones. Chi-square analysis was used to determine the relationship between BMI and renal stone formation.

Results:

We examined stones from 191 procedures. Among these stones, we classified 58.6% as having “pure” composition and 40.8% as having “mixed” composition. Most stones (68.1%) were composed of calcium oxalate monohydrate (COM), followed by carbonate apatite (50.8%), calcium oxalate dihydrate (COD) (36.6%), uric acid (14.1%), struvite (8.9%), ammonium hydrogen urate (2.1%), and brushite (1.0%). Chi-square analysis revealed that stones in obese patients (BMI >27 kg/m2) were more likely to contain COM (hazards ratio [HR]: 1.66, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.10–2.49, P = 0.008) and less COD (HR: 0.77, 95% CI: 0.60–0.99, P = 0.049) than stones in nonobese patients (BMI ≦27 kg/m2).

Conclusion:

COM is the most frequently occurring compound in renal stones. Obese patients were significantly more likely to develop COM-containing renal stones. One must consider these factors when choosing a treatment modality.
Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Associated with Double-J Stent
Authors: Lee Sheng-Wei , Hsiao Po-Jen , Chang Chao-Hsiang , Chou Eric Chieh-Lung
Published: September 2018

Urinary drainage for hydronephrosis including the placement of an internal double J (D-J) or external percutaneous nephrostomy tube is common practice. Although D-J insertion is less invasive and may provide better quality of life than percutaneous nephrostomy, patients commonly complain of associated symptoms like discomfort, resulting in decreasing work performance and lifestyle changes. The incidence of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) following D-J insertion is 50%–70%. Urologists who perform this procedure need to know how to prevent and manage common symptoms and educate patients. The physical activity of patients, material of D-J, size, and length of the stent are factors that increase the incidence of LUTS. Recently, several studies have suggested medical treatment for relief D-J-related symptoms. This article reviews the general background, factors, evaluation, and management of D-J associated LUTS.
Is it Worth Removing Prostatic Anterior Fat Pad to Detect Lymph Node Metastasis of Prostate Cancer During Robotic-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy?
Authors: Chen Chia-Hung , Chung Hsiao-Jen , Lin Alex T. L. , Chen Kuang-Kuo
Published: September 2018

Objectives:

To determine the number of lymph node in prostatic anterior fat pad (PAFP) and the incidence of metastasis in lymph nodes dissected during robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP).

Methods:

From May 2011 to November 2015, PAFP were removed in 146 patients who underwent RARP and sent for pathological analysis to determine the number of lymph nodes and incidence of metastasis to the lymph nodes. Another 48 patients without PAFP removal were enrolled as the control group. Operative features including operative time, estimated blood loss, post-operative hospital stay, and the incidence of complications were compared between the two groups.

Results:

Lymph nodes within PAFP were detected in 14/146 (9.6%) patients, with metastatic lymph nodes in 2/146 (1.3%) patients. The patients with metastatic lymph nodes in the PAFP had no obturator lymph node involvement. There were no significant differences in operative features between the two groups.

Conclusions:

Our findings demonstrated that PAFP contain lymph nodes, and that the incidence rate of lymph node metastasis was high. There was no increase in the surgical risk when removing PAFP, and therefore we suggest that PAFP be routinely removed during RARP and then analyzed pathologically to allow for precise lymph node staging.