bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Creativity, Organisation and Entrepreneurship: Power and Play in the Ecological Press of Money
Authors: Munro Rolland
Published: July 2017

Drawing on how Marx reverses consumption perspectives (C-M-C) to capture the money-orientation of entrepreneurs (M-C-M), the paper addresses ways the ‘ecological press’ of creativity is affected by money-orientations becoming internalised deeply into institutions. Accepting Hjorth’s critique that managerialism aims at producing ‘today’s ideal of self-managing enterprising employees’, the pressing issue is to understand how organisation, when re-configured around budgets, targets and other metrics, can be opened up to passion, carnival and play without augmenting the ‘power of place’. Asking how ‘spaces of play’ get foreclosed by the ‘ecological press’ of creativity being turned towards money-making, particular scrutiny is given to the ways in which ‘institutional logics’ get altered by internalising money-orientations. Three paradigm cases of reverse-thinking in innovation are examined: namely, Edison’s supply of electricity, Sloan’s use of ROI to grant autonomy, and JIT’s lead towards the flexible factory. While suggestive of the role money may play in limiting creativity to the possible and the potential, the analysis shows how change towards the virtual can be triggered by complex modes of reverse-thinking. While the analysis challenges ‘market logics’ that put creativity in the hands of the ‘chance and caprice’ of internal competition, I conclude that negative effects on the ecological press of creativity, such as ‘making play pay’, might be better countered by more research over how money’s presence and absence is created and tempered.
Decentralization reforms in dictatorial regimes as a survival strategy: Evidence from Pakistan
Authors: Aslam Ghazia
Published: July 2017

Are decentralization reforms in dictatorial regimes mere window dressing or can they deliver longevity for dictators? Many scholars in political science have argued that seemingly democratic institutions established in dictatorships play a crucial role in increasing the survival potential of the authoritarian regime by providing a channel to the dictator to co-opt members of the opposition, identify their bases of support and recruit effective coalition members. While most of the existing analysis has focused on national elections and political parties, we use primary data and social network methodology to analyze the 2001 decentralization reforms established during General Musharraf’s military regime in Pakistan. We show that seemingly democratically empowering decentralized governance structures can also be used to distribute rents to political supporters through ostensibly legitimate channels. Therefore, this paper adds to the literature on institutions in dictatorships on two fronts in addition to providing crucial information about the political landscape in a strategically important country.
An evolving Other: German national identity and constructions of Russia
Authors: Siddi Marco
Published: July 2017

This article shows that national constructions of the Other are not fixed, but evolve as a result of policy makers’ agency, the domestic contestation among different identity narratives and their interaction with international structures. This is illustrated through an interpretive Social Constructivist approach and the Discourse-Historical Analysis (DHA) of narratives of Russia as an Other in German national identity. The article investigates the paradoxes of identity/difference and of continuity/change, which constitute the theoretical core of this Special Issue. It is argued that, in a longue durée perspective, narratives of Russia as an antagonistic Other have evolved and allowed for the emergence of less oppositional forms of difference. This change had an impact on German foreign policy, notably through the emergence of the cooperative Ostpolitik towards Russia. From the 1960s, Germany’s genocidal past was constructed as the main Other in national identity, whereas Soviet Russia was reconceptualised as an economic partner. I argue that this conceptualisation has proven remarkably resilient and has not disappeared in the context of the 2008 Georgian war and the current Ukraine crisis. While the Ostpolitik narrative temporarily lost momentum at the height of the crisis, it is ready to resurface as soon as structural conditions change.
United Kingdom “top 5” pop music lyrics
Authors: North Adrian C , Krause Amanda E , Kane Robert , Sheridan Lorraine
Published: July 2017

The present research conducted a computerised analysis of the content of all lyrics from the United Kingdom’s weekly top 5 singles sales charts (Study 1, 1962–2011), and considered their macroeconomic correlates (Study 2, 1960–2011). Study 1 showed that coverage of interpersonal relationships consistently reflected a self-centred and unsophisticated approach; coverage of violence featured predominantly anti-authoritarian denial rather than overt depictions; and more recent lyrics were more stimulating. Study 2 showed no evidence that variations in lyrical optimism predicted future variations in economic optimism and subsequently Gross Domestic Product; but, consistent with the environmental security hypothesis, economic turbulence (defined as volatility in the closing price of the London Stock Exchange) was associated with the later popularity of lyrics concerning certainty and succour. These findings are discussed in terms of the advantages and limitations of computerised coding of lyrics.
The Effects of Injury Prevention Programs on the Biomechanics of Landing Tasks: A Systematic Review With Meta-analysis
Authors: Lopes Thiago Jambo Alves , Simic Milena , Myer Gregory D. , Ford Kevin R. , Hewett Timothy E. , Pappas Evangelos
Published: July 2017

Background:

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear is a common injury in sports and often occurs during landing from a jump.

Purpose:

To synthesize the evidence on the effects of injury prevention programs (IPPs) on landing biomechanics as they relate to the ligament, quadriceps, trunk, and leg dominance theories associated with ACL injury risk.

Study Design:

Meta-analysis.

Methods:

Six electronic databases were searched for studies that investigated the effect of IPPs on landing task biomechanics. Prospective studies that reported landing biomechanics at baseline and post-IPP were included. Results from trunk, hip, and knee kinematics and kinetics related to the ACL injury theories were extracted, and meta-analyses were performed when possible.

Results:

The criteria were met by 28 studies with a total of 466 participants. Most studies evaluated young females, bilateral landing tasks, and recreational athletes, while most variables were related to the ligament and quadriceps dominance theories. An important predictor of ACL injury, peak knee abduction moment, decreased ( P = .01) after the IPPs while other variables related to the ligament dominance theory did not change. Regarding the quadriceps dominance theory, after the IPPs, angles of hip flexion at initial contact ( P = .009), peak hip flexion ( P = .002), and peak knee flexion ( P = .007) increased, while knee flexion at initial contact did not change ( P = .18). Moreover, peak knee flexion moment decreased ( P = .005) and peak vertical ground-reaction force did not change ( P = .10).

Conclusion:

The exercises used in IPPs might have the potential to improve landing task biomechanics related to the quadriceps dominance theory, especially increasing peak knee and hip flexion angles. Importantly, peak knee abduction moment decreased, which indicates that IPPs influence a desired movement strategy to help athletes overcome dangerous ligament dominance loads arising from lack of frontal plane control during dynamic tasks. The lack of findings for some biomechanical variables suggests that future IPPs may be enhanced by targeting participants’ baseline profile deficits, highlighting the need to deliver an individualized and task-specific IPP.
Latino Adolescent Educational Affiliation Profiles
Authors: Gonzalez Laura M. , Cavanaugh Alyson M. , Taylor Laura K. , Stein Gabriela L. , Mayton Heather N.
Published: July 2017

Supporting postsecondary access for Latino adolescents is important due to the size of the population and mixed evidence of progress. In order to better understand the college-going and school belonging attitudes of Latinos, we used an exploratory latent profile analysis to identify the educational affiliation profiles present in a sample of Latino seventh- to 10th-grade students in the Southeastern United States. In addition, we investigated how proximal peer processes (support and discrimination) functioned to differentiate membership in the educational affiliation profiles. We found that a three-typology profile was the best fit to the data (low, moderate, and high educational affiliation), and that peer support was more likely to be associated with membership in the high profile (compared with low profile and moderate profile), while peer discrimination was more likely to be associated with membership in the moderate profile (as compared with the high profile). Implications for conceptualizing college readiness are offered.
Reliability-based robust design of wind turbine’s shrink disk
Authors: Wang Jianmei , Ning Ke , Xu Junliang , Li Zhixiong
Published: July 2017

Wind turbine’s shrink disk (WTSD), as a component of transmission system, plays a crucial role in the wind turbine work. In this study, the matrix expression of combined pressure and interference magnitude has been derived by analyzing the geometry relationship of interference fit of multi-layer cylinder. The mechanic model is built by simplifying WTSD as interference fit of multi-layer cylinder. The reliability model is established on the basis of pressure-strength model, and the formula regarding reliability sensitivity is derived. In terms of the minimum principle on the square sum of reliability sensitivity and the minimum reliability principle, the reliability-based robust design (RBRD) model is built under the multi-objective conditions, and the dynamic reliability model is established on the basis of reliability model, load model, and residual strength model. Dynamic reliability sensitivity formula is deduced, and the dynamic reliability-based robust design (DRBRD) model is established under the multi-objective conditions. The effects of the coefficient of friction, assembly clearance, and yield strength on the reliability of WTSD are analyzed by RBRD and DRBRD methods. Taking a type of WTSD as an example, the calculating results validate that the reliability changes along with interference magnitude. The comparison of results shows that the above methods and Monte Carlo method have the same tendency and approximately agree well. Moreover, the traditional design method and RBRD method are compared. It turned out that RBRD can improve the reliability of WTSD by 47.6%, the reliability-based sensitivity is less than that from the traditional design method, and the robustness is stronger. The experiment verified that the design methods of this study can better meet the operation requirements.
A simple and reliable reel mechanism-based robotic colonoscope for high mobility
Authors: Lee Dongkyu , Joe Seonggun , Jung Jae-Hoon , Kim Jong-Uk , Kim Byungkyu
Published: July 2017

Colonoscopes are one The first two authors contributed equally to this work of the best tools to detect colorectal cancer despite their several drawbacks. In order to solve the limitations of conventional colonoscopes and detect cancer more efficiently, robotic colonoscopes and capsule endoscopes have been proposed. However, active capsule endoscopes require expensive control systems, and they have functional limitations due to their small volumes. In addition, robotic colonoscopes fail to achieve sufficient mobility, resulting in longer colonoscopy times than with conventional colonoscopes. Therefore, the present study proposes a simple, reliable reel mechanism-based robotic colonoscope that achieves high mobility. Because the robot is operated by a reel with an external high-capacity motor, enhanced mobility is attained regardless of environment. Moreover, the proposed robotic colonoscope allows for the inclusion of an instrument channel, unlike previously reported robotic colonoscopes. A theoretical analysis is implemented to confirm the mobile performance. The analysis results are compared with the results of a locomotion test in a urethane tube (diameter = 28 mm). Ultimately, the robot achieves high mobility (66.04 ± 5.97 mm/s with a motor speed of 200 r/min), and the error between the theoretical and experimental results is less than 1%. Furthermore, an in-vitro test in an excised porcine colon is performed to verify the feasibility of the locomotion in a large intestine. In straight and sloping paths (30° and 45°), the robot travels at 21.11 ± 1.69 mm/s, 18.77 ± 3.42 mm/s, and 8.76 ± 1.68 mm/s, respectively, with a motor speed of 150 r/min. This is within the reliable operation range for colonoscopies.
Association between self-reported sexually transmitted infection treatment and mental health symptoms in conflict-affected eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Koegler Erica , Kennedy Caitlin E , Thompson Carol B , Winch Peter J , Mpanano Remy M , Perrin Nancy A , Glass Nancy
Published: July 2017

Although poor mental health has been associated with sexual risk behavior, few studies have examined the association between mental health and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in conflict-affected settings. With elevated symptoms of poor mental health in conflict-affected settings, it is important to consider if and how mental health may be a risk factor for STIs in these settings. We used cross-sectional logistic regression to examine the association between symptoms of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with having been treated for an STI in rural South Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo. Among 753 adults, those with elevated self-reported symptoms of depression and anxiety (adjusted OR = 2.73, 95% CI 1.68, 4.44) and PTSD (adjusted OR = 1.89, 95% CI 1.17, 3.06) had higher odds of reporting ever being treated for an STI than those who were not symptomatic. Our findings suggest that future studies are needed to more rigorously examine the relationship between mental health and STIs.
Mechanical performance of CF/PEEK–PEI foam core sandwich structures
Authors: Grünewald Jonas , Parlevliet Patricia P , Matschinski Alexander , Altstädt Volker
Published: July 2017

Previous work showed that thermoplastic composite sandwich structures offer great potential to meet the demands of lightweight structures for aviation applications. In this study, the influence of several processing parameters on the mechanical properties of thermoplastic sandwich components, consisting of carbon fibre reinforced polyetheretherketone skins and polyetherimide foam cores, is characterised. Sandwich specimens are manufactured with varying skin temperatures, core compaction distances and different polyetherimide concentrations at the skin–core interface. Following, sandwich samples are mechanically tested to characterise the bond strength, the core performance as well as the performance of the whole sandwich. The results show that in most cases the processing parameters significantly affect the cell structure of the sandwich core, provided that a proper fusion bond between skins and core exists. Thereby, the core performance seems to be weakened and failure predominantly occurs in the transition between affected and original cell structures.
Piston-ring film thickness: Theory and experiment compared
Authors: Garcia-Atance Fatjo Gonzalo , Smith Edward H , Sherrington Ian
Published: July 2017

A review of the published literature has demonstrated a large variability and discrepancies in the measured and predicted values of piston-ring lubricating film thickness in internal combustion engines. Only two papers have been found that compare experiments in firing engines directly with outputs from sophisticated ring-pack lubrication models. The agreement between theory and experiment in these comparisons was limited, possibly because of inadequacies in the models and/ or inaccuracies of measurement. This paper seeks to contribute to the literature by comparing accurately calibrated experimental measurements of piston-ring film thickness in a firing engine with predictions from an advanced, commercial software package alongside details of the systematic analysis of the measurement errors in this process. Suggestions on how measurement accuracy could be further improved are also given. Measurements of oil-film thickness with an error (standard deviation) of ±15% have been achieved. It is shown that this error can be reduced further, by changes in the design and installation of the sensors. Detailed experimental measurements of film thickness under the top compression ring in a firing petrol engine have been made and compared with the predictions from a commercial, state-of-the art modelling package. The agreement between theory and experiment is excellent throughout the stroke in most cases, but some significant differences are observed at the lower load conditions. These differences are as yet unexplained, but may be due to the sensor topography influencing the hydrodynamic lubrication, lubricant availability, out-of-roundness in the cylinder or squeeze effects. This is a topic that requires further study.
Personalized, bilateral whole-body somatosensory cortex stimulation to relieve fatigue in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Cancelli Andrea , Cottone Carlo , Giordani Alessandro , Migliore Simone , Lupoi Domenico , Porcaro Camillo , Mirabella Massimiliano , Rossini Paolo Maria , Filippi Maria Maddalena , Tecchio Franca
Published: July 2017

Background:

The patients suffering from multiple sclerosis (MS) often consider fatigue the most debilitating symptom they experience, but conventional medicine currently offers poorly efficacious therapies.

Objective:

We executed a replication study of an innovative approach for relieving MS fatigue.

Methods:

According to the sample size estimate, we recruited 10 fatigued MS patients who received 5-day transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in a randomized, double-blind, Sham-controlled, crossover study, with modified Fatigue Impact Scale (mFIS) score reduction at the end of the treatment as primary outcome. A personalized anodal electrode, shaped on the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-derived individual cortical folding, targeted the bilateral whole-body primary somatosensory cortex (S1) with an occipital cathode.

Results:

The amelioration of fatigue symptoms after Real stimulation (40% of baseline) was significantly larger than after Sham stimulation (14%, p = 0.012). Anodal whole body S1 induced a significant fatigue reduction in mildly disabled MS patients when the fatigue-related symptoms severely hampered their quality of life.

Conclusion:

This second result in an independent group of patients supports the idea that neuromodulation interventions that properly select a personalized target might be a suitable non-pharmacological treatment for MS fatigue.
Norm structure, diffusion, and evolution: A conceptual approach
Authors: Winston Carla
Published: July 2017

Norms are one of the most widely studied topics of contemporary International Relations scholarship. Norms scholars have created an extensive theoretical and empirical literature to identify, describe, and analyze the emergence, diffusion, and effect of norms in the international system. However, this scholarship is inconsistent in how it treats state choice and norm diffusion; in particular, it is divided between theories that emphasize continuity and those that allow for change in the process of norm adoption and implementation. This article suggests that the problem can be remedied through a closer examination of the structure of norms themselves. It first shows that the prevailing understanding of contemporary international norms is that they have a tripartite structure, consisting of a problem, a value, and a behavior. These structural components can be combined to create norms as traditionally understood. The article also proposes a new concept — a “norm cluster” — which allows for multiple combinations of conceptually interlinked but distinct values and behaviors, offering multiple acceptable solutions to similar and interlocking problems. The actors that adopt a norm cluster, rather than a single norm or set of norms, may be recognized as a family group: although no cluster adopter need perfectly re-enact the choices of others, the resulting variation in outcomes is accepted as “close enough.” The article argues that focusing on norm components and clusters, rather than on single norms as currently understood, allows for a more precise understanding of how principle-based action diffuses and evolves in the international system.
Adopting Neuroscience
Authors: Mackenzie Adrian , Roberts Celia
Published: July 2017

What happens when neuroscientific knowledges move from laboratories and clinics into therapeutic settings concerned with the care of children? ‘Brain-based parenting’ is a set of discourses and practices emerging at the confluence of attachment theory, neuroscience, psychotherapy and social work. The neuroscientific knowledges involved understand affective states such as fear, anger and intimacy as dynamic patterns of coordination between brain localities, as well as flows of biochemical signals via hormones such as cortisol. Drawing on our own attempts to adopt brain-based parenting, and engaging with various strands and critiques of new materialism and affect theory, we explore the ways in which the social sciences and humanities might fruitfully engage with neuroscientific concepts and affects. How does science-affected indeterminacy, with all its promises of ontological and experiential agency, help us to observe, wait, bind or hold together volatile mixtures of habit, speech and action?
The Model for Assessment of Telemedicine (MAST): A scoping review of empirical studies
Authors: Kidholm Kristian , Clemensen Jane , Caffery Liam J , Smith Anthony C
Published: July 2017

The evaluation of telemedicine can be achieved using different evaluation models or theoretical frameworks. This paper presents a scoping review of published studies which have applied the Model for Assessment of Telemedicine (MAST). MAST includes pre-implementation assessment (e.g. by use of participatory design), followed by multidisciplinary assessment, including description of the patients and the application and assessment of safety, clinical effectiveness, patient perspectives, economic aspects organisational aspects and socio-cultural, legal and ethical aspects. Twenty-two studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. In this article, research design and methods used in the multidisciplinary assessment are described, strengths and weaknesses are analysed, and recommendations for future research are presented.
Adapting services to the needs of children and families with complex migration experiences: The Toulouse University Hospital’s intercultural consultation
Authors: Sturm Gesine , Guerraoui Zohra , Bonnet Sylvie , Gouzvinski Françoise , Raynaud Jean-Philippe
Published: July 2017

This article presents the recently created intercultural consultation at the Medical and Psychological Health Care Service (CMP) of the University Hospital la Grave at Toulouse. The approach of the intercultural consultation was elaborated in response to the increasing diversity of children and families using the service in Toulouse. It is also based on local research that indicates the difficulties service providers encounter when trying to establish a solid therapeutic alliance with families with complex migration backgrounds who accumulate different disadvantaging factors. The intercultural consultation adapts existing models of culture-sensitive consultations in child mental health care in France and Canada to the local context in Toulouse. We describe the underlying principles of the intercultural consultation work, the therapeutic and mediation techniques used, and the way the work is integrated into the global service provision of the CMP. The process is illustrated with a case study followed by a discussion of the innovations.
Laminar flame speed correlations for methane, ethane, propane and their mixtures, and natural gas and gasoline for spark-ignition engine simulations
Authors: Amirante Riccardo , Distaso Elia , Tamburrano Paolo , Reitz Rolf D
Published: July 2017

The laminar flame speed plays an important role in spark-ignition engines, as well as in many other combustion applications, such as in designing burners and predicting explosions. For this reason, it has been object of extensive research. Analytical correlations that allow it to be calculated have been developed and are used in engine simulations. They are usually preferred to detailed chemical kinetic models for saving computational time. Therefore, an accurate as possible formulation for such expressions is needed for successful simulations. However, many previous empirical correlations have been based on a limited set of experimental measurements, which have been often carried out over a limited range of operating conditions. Thus, it can result in low accuracy and usability. In this study, measurements of laminar flame speeds obtained by several workers are collected, compared and critically analyzed with the aim to develop more accurate empirical correlations for laminar flame speeds as a function of equivalence ratio and unburned mixture temperature and pressure over a wide range of operating conditions, namely [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. The purpose is to provide simple and workable expressions for modeling the laminar flame speed of practical fuels used in spark-ignition engines. Pure compounds, such as methane and propane and binary mixtures of methane/ethane and methane/propane, as well as more complex fuels including natural gas and gasoline, are considered. A comparison with available empirical correlations in the literature is also provided.
Changes in Behaviors and Outcomes Among School-Based Employees in a Wellness Program
Authors: LeCheminant James , Merrill Ray M. , Masterson Travis D.
Published: July 2017

Objective. To examine the health behavior changes and mental-health and job-related outcomes of school-based employees over 2 years while participating in a worksite wellness program. Method. All participants in this analysis (n = 1,873) were employees of a large public school district in the western United States and voluntarily enrolled in a comprehensive wellness program. Exercise level, fruit and vegetable consumption, restful sleep, smoking, alcohol consumption, self-rated health, mental health-related outcomes (stress, depression, life-satisfaction, and loneliness), and job-related outcomes (job performance, absenteeism, job-related satisfaction) are reported. Results. There was an increase in days and minutes/week exercised, fruit/vegetable consumption, days per week of restful sleep, and a decrease in alcohol consumption (ps < .037) over 2 years. Among those who reported smoking, the number of days smoked increased after 1 year but then dropped below baseline levels at year 2 (p < .0001). Several mental health-related outcomes improved (ps < .033); however, job performance was slightly lower (↓ 2%), and the other job-related outcomes were unchanged. Conclusion. School employees may benefit from a comprehensive worksite wellness program, particularly to improve health behaviors. However, mental health and job-related outcome results were mixed over 2 years.
Endograft Infection After Endovascular Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Argyriou Christos , Georgiadis George S. , Lazarides Miltos K. , Georgakarakos Efstratios , Antoniou George A.
Published: July 2017

Purpose: To report a meta-analysis of the published evidence on the outcomes of aortic endograft infection after endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). Methods: A search of electronic information sources (PubMed/MEDLINE, SCOPUS, CENTRAL) and bibliographic reference lists identified 12 studies reporting on 362 patients (mean age 72 years; 279 men). The methodological quality of the selected studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Endpoints were 30-day/in-hospital mortality and follow-up mortality. Pooled estimates are reported with the 95% confidence interval (CI). The review was registered at the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews in Health and Social Care (CRD42016034166). Results: The incidence of graft infection after EVAR was 0.6% (95% CI 0.4% to 0.8%). The time from implantation to diagnosis ranged from 1 to 128 months (mean 25). The majority of patients (293, 81%) underwent surgical treatment (95% CI 77% to 83%); 9 (2.5%) patients (95% CI 21% to 43%) received conservative treatment. Aortic replacement with a prosthetic graft was performed in 58% (95% CI 52% to 62%), whereas cryopreserved allografts and autologous grafts were used in 31% (95% CI 28% to 33%) and 11% (95% CI% 8 to 14%), respectively. Less than half of the patients (40%) had emergency surgery. The pooled estimate of 30-day/in-hospital mortality was 26.6% (95% CI 16.9% to 39.2%). The pooled 30-day/in-hospital mortality for 9 patients treated conservatively was 63.3% (95% CI 30.7% to 87.0%). The pooled overall follow-up mortality was 45.7% (95% CI 36.4% to 55.4%) vs 58.6% (95% CI 28.8% to 83.3%) for the 9 patients receiving conservative treatment. Conclusion: Aortic endograft infection is a rare complication after EVAR. Surgical treatment with complete explantation of the infected endograft seems to be the optimal management in selected patients. Supportive medical treatment without surgical intervention has a significant associated mortality.
Perturbation During Treadmill Training Improves Dynamic Balance and Gait in Parkinson’s Disease: A Single-Blind Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial
Authors: Steib Simon , Klamroth Sarah , Gaßner Heiko , Pasluosta Cristian , Eskofier Björn , Winkler Jürgen , Klucken Jochen , Pfeifer Klaus
Published: July 2017

Background. Gait and balance dysfunction are major symptoms in Parkinson’s disease (PD). Treadmill training improves gait characteristics in this population but does not reflect the dynamic nature of controlling balance during ambulation in everyday life contexts. Objective. To evaluate whether postural perturbations during treadmill walking lead to superior effects on gait and balance performance compared with standard treadmill training. Methods. In this single-blind randomized controlled trial, 43 PD patients (Hoehn & Yahr stage 1-3.5) were assigned to either an 8-week perturbed treadmill intervention (n = 21) or a control group (n = 22) training on the identical treadmill without perturbations. Patients were assessed at baseline, postintervention, and at 3 months’ follow-up. Primary endpoints were overground gait speed and balance (Mini-BESTest). Secondary outcomes included fast gait speed, walking capacity (2-Minute Walk Test), dynamic balance (Timed Up-and-Go), static balance (postural sway), and balance confidence (Activities-Specific Balance Confidence [ABC] scale). Results. There were no significant between-group differences in change over time for the primary outcomes. At postintervention, both groups demonstrated similar improvements in overground gait speed ( P = .009), and no changes in the Mini-BESTest ( P = .641). A significant group-by-time interaction ( P = .048) existed for the Timed Up-and-Go, with improved performance only in the perturbation group. In addition, the perturbation but not the control group significantly increased walking capacity ( P = .038). Intervention effects were not sustained at follow-up. Conclusions. Our primary findings suggest no superior effect of perturbation training on gait and balance in PD patients. However, some favorable trends existed for secondary gait and dynamic balance parameters, which should be investigated in future trials.
Research on detection mission scheduling strategy for the LEO constellation to multiple targets
Authors: Sun Fuyu , Wang Hua
Published: July 2017

The space-based infrared LEO constellation has the ability of surveillance and tracking of ballistic missiles during entire phases, which has played an important role in the ballistic missile defense system (BMDS). This paper focuses on the scheduling strategy for the LEO constellation to multiple targets. The concept of average contribution of the satellite is firstly introduced, transforming the dynamic scheduling process to continuous intervals. The switching frequency and relaxation degree are also considered as decision variables. Then the multilayer coding genetic algorithm is improved in order to solve the scheduling problem. Finally, a scheduling demonstration validates the correctness and effectiveness of the presented method. The theory analysis and simulation results of this paper can provide powerful support for future design of the LEO constellation and research on the BMDS.
Evaluation of traffic congestion degree: An integrated approach
Authors: Hao Nannan , Feng Yixiong , Zhang Kai , Tian Guangdong , Zhang Lele , Jia Hongfei
Published: July 2017

Intersection traffic congestion evaluation is essential for effective intelligent transportation system planning, and an objective and precise assessment of traffic congestion is vital to ensure the smooth circulation of traffic. Multiple criteria decision-making is a method for evaluating the degree of traffic congestion. A hybrid multiple criteria decision-making method integrating the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process, techniques for order preference by similarity to an ideal solution, and gray correlation techniques are presented in this work. The proposed method applied fuzzy analytic hierarchy process to determine the weight of the evaluation index; subsequently, gray correlation techniques for order preference by similarity to an ideal solution were integrated to construct the hybrid decision-making method. A case study of traffic congestion at intersections with five evaluation indexes verified the effectiveness of the hybrid method. The evaluation results of the different methods show that the proposed method overcomes the one-sidedness of analytical hierarchy process–techniques for order preference by similarity to an ideal solution and analytical hierarchy process–gray correlation. Thus, the proposed hybrid decision-making model provides a more accurate and reliable method for evaluating the degree of traffic congestion.
Factors Impacting School Closure and Configuration
Authors: Corrales Antonio
Published: July 2017

Newly implemented state policy dealing with school finance created several consequences in a school district to include school configuration and restructuring of educational programs. This case describes how a new school finance law changes the entire dynamic of a school district and its newly appointed superintendent. The superintendent considered changes across the district such as school closure, to meet the necessary budgetary reductions and continue serving the students by meeting their educational and social needs. The district leadership is forced to promote changes while dealing with local politics, the district internal culture, and the state educational system.
Treatment of ruptured blood blister aneurysms using primary flow-diverter stenting with considerations for adjunctive coiling: A single-centre experience and literature review
Authors: Yang Cunli , Vadasz Agnes , Szikora István
Published: July 2017

Objective

The objective of this article is to conduct a single-centre evaluation and quick literature review of the effectiveness of primary flow-diverter (FD) treatment of ruptured blood blister aneurysms (BBAs), with additional relevance of adjunctive coiling.

Methods

Patients presenting with subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) due to ruptured BBAs and subsequently treated with FDs were retrospectively selected from June 2010 to January 2017. Treatment techniques, angiographic data on occlusion rates and procedural success as well as clinical outcomes using the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) were collated. Cross-reference of results were made with available literature.

Results

Thirteen patients harbouring 14 BBAs were recruited. Of the 14 aneurysms, five (35.7%) showed immediate complete occlusion after the procedure (four of these five patients had adjunctive coiling). All of the aneurysms showed complete occlusion by the six- to nine-month control diagnostic angiogram. No rebleed or retreatment was experienced. Twelve of 13 (92%) patients had an mRS score of 0–1 at the last clinical follow-up. From the pooled data of the literature review, eventual aneurysm occlusion was achieved in 48/56 patients, with five patients requiring further endovascular treatment. In the clinical follow-up period, an mRS of 0–2 was recorded for 83.3% (45/54) of patients.

Conclusion

Endovascular reconstruction of BBAs using FD treatment is an effective method with good final clinical outcomes. Adjunctive use of coiling achieves higher incidence of immediate complete occlusion of BBAs.
Pipeline embolization device retraction and foreshortening after internal carotid artery blister aneurysm treatment
Authors: Heit Jeremy J , Telischak Nicholas A , Do Huy M , Dodd Robert L , Steinberg Gary K , Marks Michael P
Published: July 2017

Background

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) secondary to rupture of a blister aneurysm (BA) results in high morbidity and mortality. Endovascular treatment with the pipeline embolization device (PED) has been described as a new treatment strategy for these lesions. We present the first reported case of PED retraction and foreshortening after treatment of a ruptured internal carotid artery (ICA) BA.

Case description

A middle-aged patient presented with SAH secondary to ICA BA rupture. The patient was treated with telescoping PED placement across the BA. After 5 days from treatment, the patient developed a new SAH due to re-rupture of the BA. Digital subtraction angiography revealed an increase in caliber of the supraclinoid ICA with associated retraction and foreshortening of the PED that resulted in aneurysm uncovering and growth.

Conclusions

PED should be oversized during ruptured BA treatment to prevent device retraction and aneurysm regrowth. Frequent imaging follow up after BA treatment with PED is warranted to ensure aneurysm occlusion.
Incorporating assessment and prescribing for ambulatory ailments skills into practice: An environmental scan of continuing education for pharmacist prescribing in Canada
Authors: Habicht Dana , Ng Sheila , Dunford Drena , Shearer Brenna , Kuo I fan
Published: July 2017

Objectives:

Pharmacists in Canadian provinces are at different stages of applying prescribing legislation into practice. The purpose of this environmental scan was to examine differences in legislation, remuneration, professional uptake, continuing education requirements and continuing education resources relating to pharmacist prescribing for ambulatory ailments, with a focus on continuing education.

Methods:

Data were collected between May and December 2016 using websites and communication with provincial professional regulatory bodies, advocacy bodies, drug coverage programs and other organizations that offer continuing education for pharmacists.

Results:

Training requirements to prescribe for ambulatory ailments vary provincially, including no training requirements, online tutorials and a comprehensive application process. Government-funded remuneration for prescribing services is absent in most provinces. Pharmacist uptake of the training required to obtain prescribing authority ranges from 30% to 100% of pharmacists. Continuing education programs on the topic of prescribing across the country include online courses, in-person courses, webinars, panel discussions and preparation courses.

Conclusion:

Many aspects of pharmacist prescribing for ambulatory ailments, including the style and content of continuing education resources, vary from province to province. Further research on this topic would help to determine the effect of these differences on the success of incorporating pharmacist prescribing into practice.
Effect of dexamethasone on TLR4 and MyD88 expression in monocytes of patients with tuberculous meningitis
Authors: Zhou Jie , Wang Jing , Gu Mei-Ying , Zhang Shu-Qiong , Chen Sheng-Li , Zhang Xian-Wei , Zhang Li-Na
Published: July 2017

This study aims to analyze the clinical effect of dexamethasone in the treatment of tuberculous meningitis and its effect on MyD88 and TLR4 expression in monocytes. In total, 60 tuberculous meningitis patients were divided into two groups: observation group and control group. Of them, 36 patients were treated with conventional anti-tuberculosis treatment combined with dexamethasone in the observation group, while patients in control group were treated with anti-tuberculosis alone, and the clinical efficacy and expression of TLR4 and MyD88 in peripheral blood monocytes in both the groups were analyzed. The total effective rate in the combined treatment group was 91.67%, which was significantly better than the control group (χ2 = 5.17, P < 0.05). This revealed that dexamethasone treatment can significantly reduce the expression levels of TLR4 and MyD88. Anti-tuberculosis treatment combined with dexamethasone can significantly improve treatment efficacy. Furthermore, the TLR4-MyD88 pathway plays an important role in the dexamethasone treatment of tuberculous meningitis.
Sex difference in types and distribution of risk factors in ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke
Authors: Ahangar Alijan A , Saadat Payam , Heidari Behzad , Taheri Seyedeh T , Alijanpour Shayan
Published: July 2017

Background

Stroke is the second leading cause of death worldwide and is associated with several risk factors with variable risk factor distribution by population. We report the types and frequency of the associated factors of stroke in north Iran.

Methods

Consecutive patients with stroke were recruited from 2014 to 2015. The two groups of ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke were compared with respect to age, sex, the prevalence, and distribution of the risk factors.

Results

Among 230 patients (84.3% ischemic stroke) with mean age of 61.2 years, hypertension (73%), diabetes mellitus (53%), cardiovascular disease (51%), and dyslipidemia (47%) were the most frequent risk factors. Hypertension was significantly more prevalent in males compared with females (88% vs. 60%, OR = 4.91, 95% CI: 2.48–9.71). Hypertension, smoking, and opioid consumption were associated with hemorrhagic stroke. Dyslipidemia was significantly higher in ischemic stroke (OR = 2.65, 95% CI: 1.21–5.8). Overall, 84.3% of stroke occurred in patients aged >50 years (92.8% of women vs. 74.5% of the men, OR = 4.43, 95% CI: 1.93–10.16, p = 0.001).

Conclusion

Stroke was more prevalent in females; hypertension was more prevalent in males. In the age group less than 50 years old, stroke is more prevalent in men.
The influence of late displacement in distal radius fractures on function, grip strength, range of motion and quality of life
Authors: Wadsten M. Å. , Sjödén G. O. , Buttazzoni G. G. , Buttazzoni C. , Englund E. , Sayed- Noor A. S.
Published: July 2017

Late displacement of distal radius fractures, still in acceptable radiological position after 1–2 weeks, occurs in approximately one-third of cases. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of late displacement on the functional outcome and quality of life at 1 year in non-operatively treated distal radius fractures. One hundred and seventy five unilateral conservatively treated distal radius fractures with minimal displacement after 10–14 days were finally evaluated in the study. Follow-up included radiographs at 3 months and clinical examination 1 year after the fracture. Final radiographic parameters, grip strength, range of motion, QuickDASH, EQ-5D and pain visual analogue scale were evaluated with multivariate analysis. Late displacement occurred in 28% of the cases and was associated with loss of grip strength and range of motion. No significant differences were seen in the outcome questionnaires.

Level of evidence: II
Flow regime changes at hydraulic jumps in an open Venturi channel for Newtonian fluid
Authors: Welahettige Prasanna , Lie Bernt , Vaagsaether Knut
Published: July 2017

The aim of this paper is to study flow regime changes of Newtonian fluid flow in an open Venturi channel. The simulations are based on the volume of fluid method with interface tracking. ANSYS Fluent 16.2 (commercial code) is used as the simulation tool. The simulation results are validated with experimental results. The experiments were conducted in an open Venturi channel with water at atmospheric condition. The inlet water flow rate was 400 kg/min. The flow depth was measured by using ultrasonic level sensors. Both experiment and simulation were done for the channel inclination angles 0°, −0.7°, and −1.5°. The agreement between computed and experimental results is satisfactory. At horizontal condition, flow in the channel is supercritical until contraction and subcritical after the contraction. There is a hydraulic jump separating the supercritical and subcritical flow. The position of the hydraulic jump oscillates within a region of about 100 mm. Hydraulic jumps coming from the contraction walls to the upstream flow are the main reasons for the conversion of supercritical flow into subcritical flow. An “oblique jump” can be seen where there is a supercritical flow in the contraction. There is a triple point in this oblique jump: the triple point consists of two hydraulic jumps coming from the contraction walls and the resultant wave. The highest flow depth and the lowest velocity in the triple point are found at the oblique jump.
Tree Crown Size Estimated Using Image Processing
Authors: Matsumoto Hitoshi , Ohtani Masato , Washitani Izumi
Published: July 2017

Forest patches characterized by old trees with large crown sizes are of high biodiversity conservation value because they contain various microhabitats and may preserve the original flora of primeval or ancient forests. Aerial photo estimations of the average tree crown size represent a promising approach for identifying and monitoring such forest patches. Numerous sensors and algorithms have been developed to estimate the crown size in coniferous forests or forests with relatively low topographic variations; however, methods for estimating the crown size in steep broad-leaved forests in tropical or temperate regions are still required. We propose a method of estimating the size of tree crowns to obtain the “crown size index (CSI),” which can be used as a candidate biodiversity index for steep broad-leaved forest patches. We applied this method to a subtropical broad-leaved forest in southwestern Japan. In the first step, gray values from aerial imagery are converted to relative values, and then the crown size is subjected to a granulometric estimation. Regression of the CSI from the diameter at breast height of the canopy layer trees presented R2 values as high as 0.67. Resampling tests revealed that monochrome aerial images resampled with spatial resolutions ranging from 0.40 m to 1.20 m produced results with relatively high accuracy ( R2 ≥ .55). These results suggest that the proposed method has the potential for use as a cost-effective method of evaluating the biodiversity of broad-leaved forest patches in hilly or mountainous regions using images from various high-resolution sensors.