bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Monocyte to High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Ratio in the Presence and Severity of Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Uslu Ali Ugur , Sekin Yahya , Tarhan Gulten , Canakcı Nuray , Gunduz Mehmet , Karagulle Mustafa
Published: December 2017

Monocyte to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (MHR) is a systemic inflammatory marker, and recently, it has been used quite commonly for the assessment of inflammation in cardiovascular disorders. The aim of the present study is to investigate the relevance of MHR as a marker to assess metabolic syndrome (MetS) and MetS severity in clinical practice. A total of 147 patients with MetS who were diagnosed according to National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III criteria and 134 healthy controls, matched for age and gender, were included in our retrospective study. MHR values were 13.15 ± 6.07 for patients with MetS and 9.74 ± 5.24 for the control group. MHR values of the patients were found to be statistically significantly higher than the control group ( P < .0001). MHR showed a significantly positive correlation with the severity of MetS ( r = .429; P < .0001). When patients with MetS were assessed with MHR in the study population, receiver–operating characteristic curve analysis yielded a cutoff value of 9.36 with a sensitivity of 72%, a specificity of 61%, and a P value <.0001. In logistic regression analyses of MetS with several variables, MHR remained as an independent predictor of MetS (95% CI: 0.721-0.945, P = .005). MHR might be an available and useful inflammatory marker to evaluate patients with MetS and disease severity.
“Back Off Buddy, This Is My Body, Not Yours”: Empowering Girls Through Self-Defense
Authors: Jordan Jan , Mossman Elaine
Published: December 2017

Although growing recognition is being given to the benefits of teaching self-defense skills to college women, very little research attention has considered the impacts of providing such courses to school-aged girls. This article presents the findings from a large-scale evaluation of self-defense programs provided to three different age groups of schoolgirls from diverse backgrounds in New Zealand, drawing on survey responses from the girls themselves, supplemented by qualitative data provided by key informant interviews with their school and self-defense teachers. The findings provide clear evidence of the many positive benefits that can result for girls of all ages who participate in feminist self-defense courses taught by carefully trained instructors with a strong empowerment focus.
The Intensity and Timing of Sex Offender Treatment
Authors: Day Andrew , Ross Stuart , Casey Sharon , Vess James , Johns Diana , Hobbs Gaynor
Published: December 2017

Current evidence about the impact of specialized sex offender treatment on reoffending remains inconsistent, drawing attention to the need to focus more on those program characteristics that potentially moderate outcome. This review considers current professional perspectives and evidence on two defining aspects of treatment: its intensity and timing. It is concluded that insufficient evidence currently exists to articulate best practice in this area and there is a pressing need to collect empirical evidence about the effectiveness of different intensity treatments offered at different stages of sentence.
Problem-Oriented Policing in Suburban Low-Income Housing: A Quasi-Experiment
Authors: Carson Jennifer V. , Wellman Ashley P.
Published: December 2017

Informed by the literature on prior problem-oriented policing evaluations, this study evaluated a response within a suburban public housing unit. Specifically, we examined the Crime Response Team (CRT), a multifaceted intervention, in relation to disaggregated calls for service and reported crime. We utilized a quasi-experimental design combining interrupted time-series analysis (ARIMAX) and series hazard models in order to assess the intervention’s effect. A possible diffusion site and two pseudointervention sites were also included for comparison purposes. This investigation yielded largely negligible effects, which we primarily attributed to a mismatch between administrative-led initiatives and program execution.
Effects of Prolonged Treatment With Co-trimoxazole on the Thyroid Gland, Liver, and Epididymal Sperm Reserve in Dogs
Authors: Anyogu Davinson C , Shoyinka Vincent SO , Ihedioha John I
Published: December 2017

Co-trimoxazole is an antimicrobial drug gotten from potentiation of sulfamethoxazole with trimethoprim. It is widely used for the treatment of bacterial and protozoan infections in humans. It is also used in veterinary clinics against susceptible microorganisms, but thyroid dysfunction has raised concern especially in dogs. This study aimed to determine the effects of prolonged treatment with co-trimoxazole in euthyroid dogs. Dogs were given co-trimoxazole at 30, 60, and 120 mg/kg body weight at 12-hour intervals for 21 days. Standard procedures were used to assay total T4 and T3, thyrotropin, testosterone, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase in serum. The thyroid gland and testes were weighed. In addition, thyroid and liver were examined histologically. Epididymal sperm count was also performed. Co-trimoxazole caused dose-dependent depression of serum thyroxine levels with severe colloid depletion, intrafollicular hemorrhage, hyperplasia, and hypertrophy of the follicular cells. The liver showed vacuolar hepatopathy. Epididymal sperm count was low in the 120 mg/kg–treated group. The study revealed that thyroid hemorrhage and lowered epididymal sperm reserve were new findings in co-trimoxazole toxicity in dogs.
Cardiorenal Syndrome, Hemodynamics, and Noninvasive Evaluation
Authors: Cortesi Camilo , Ibrahim Michel , Rivera Franco Cabeza , Hernandez Gabriel A
Published: December 2017

Cardiorenal syndrome is a group of disorders resulting from the pathological interaction between the heart and the kidneys. The most accepted classification of cardiorenal syndrome differentiates the types based on the temporal sequence of organ involvement. Although many mechanisms seem to be involved in the pathogenesis, cardiac hemodynamic changes are still considered one of the major parameters that affect the cross talk between these organs. As heart failure and chronic kidney disease reach endemic proportions, the necessity to understand the pathophysiology, hemodynamics, and effective therapy of cardiorenal syndrome becomes fundamental. The aim of this review is to identify and explain the hemodynamic changes behind the syndrome and evaluate potential noninvasive methods that can help develop a practical tool for managing the cardiorenal patient.
Anti-Angiogenic Effects of Anti–Tumor Necrosis Factor α Agents in the Treatment of Behçet Disease
Authors: Maruotti Nicola , Corrado Addolorata , Cantatore Francesco Paolo
Published: December 2017

There are accumulating evidences on the role of dysregulated angiogenesis in Behçet disease. By considering that encouraging results are accumulating about the role of anti–tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) agents in the treatment of Behçet disease and that there are evidences of a role of anti-TNF-α agents in angiogenesis inhibition, it is conceivable that antiangiogenic effects of anti-TNF-α agents may contribute to the efficacy of these therapeutic arms in Behçet disease.
The promise of heteronormativity: Marriage as a strategy for respectability in South Africa
Authors: Scott Jessica , Theron Liesl
Published: December 2017

Considering marriage a primary institution through which norms are transmitted, the authors examine the ways in which entrance into heteronormative respectability is differently available to transgender-cisgender couples and lesbian couples who marry in South Africa. Through qualitative work with transgender-cisgender and lesbian couples, the authors conclude that though marriage through the Marriage Act should speak for itself, admission to heteronormativity requires a labor of doing heterosexuality, conditioned, for the couples represented here, upon a denial of the transgender person’s transgender identity. At the same time, the Civil Union Act, through which same-sex couples access marriage, has been positioned as a ‘different kind of marriage’, though it offers the same legal benefits, protections, and responsibilities available through the Marriage Act. While marriage through the Marriage Act promises entrance into heteronormativity, lesbian couples who marry through the Civil Union Act become engaged in a discursive process of consolidating respectability within the parameters of their marriages.
How health professionals facilitate parents’ involvement in decision-making at the hospital: A parental perspective
Authors: Aarthun Antje , Øymar Knut A , Akerjordet Kristin
Published: December 2017

In many western countries, parents have a legal right to influence and be involved in decision-making (DM) surrounding their children’s healthcare. This ensures that the healthcare is customized as far as possible to meet the children’s and families’ needs and preferences. However, parental involvement in such DM is not sufficiently implemented and the parental role during hospitalizations has become demanding. More knowledge is required to inform health professionals (HPs) about how to improve parental involvement in DM from a health-promoting perspective. The aims of this study were to explore parents’ experiences of how HPs facilitate their involvement in the DM surrounding their child’s healthcare and to identify how HPs can improve parental involvement at the hospital. This was an explorative, descriptive qualitative study within a constructivist research paradigm, comprising a purposive sample of 12 parents participating in individual semi-structured interviews. Qualitative content analysis was performed. The findings showed that HPs’ sensitivity to parents’ capacity, resources and needs was essential in order to facilitate the latter’s involvement in DM. HPs’ sensitivity also seemed to influence the quality of communication and the HP-parent relationship. Moreover, these factors appeared to affect parents’ coping ability during their children’s hospitalization.
Finite element analysis of concrete shrinkage cracks
Authors: Ma FJ , Kwan AKH
Published: December 2017

Shrinkage cracking of concrete has been causing serviceability and durability problems and therefore needs to be carefully analyzed. However, the existing methods of shrinkage crack analysis tend to be rather empirical and often do not agree with each other. For accurate prediction of shrinkage cracks in reinforced concrete structures, a finite element method should be more suitable. Herein, a newly developed finite element method, incorporating a crack queuing algorithm of allowing only one concrete element to crack at a time so as to cater for immediate tension relief upon cracking and enable formation of discrete cracks, is extended for application to shrinkage crack analysis. It is applied to analyze the shrinkage cracks of concrete specimens reported in the literature to assess its applicability and accuracy. Overall, the finite element analysis, which also allowed for the creep effect, produced discrete crack patterns and analytical crack widths in good agreement with the observed cracks patterns and the measured crack widths.
Work ability score and future work ability as predictors of register-based disability pension and long-term sickness absence: A three-year follow-up study
Authors: Kinnunen Ulla , Nätti Jouko
Published: December 2017

Aims: We investigated two single items of the Work Ability Index – work ability score, and future work ability – as predictors of register-based disability pension and long-term sickness absence over a three-year follow-up. Methods: Survey responses of 11,131 Finnish employees were linked to pension and long-term (more than 10 days) sickness absence register data by Statistics Finland. Work ability score was divided into poor (0–5), moderate (6–7) and good/excellent (8–10) and future work ability into poor (1–2) and good (3) work ability at baseline. Cox proportional hazard regressions were used in the analysis of disability pension, and a negative binomial model in the analysis of long-term sickness absence. The results were adjusted for several background, work- and health-related covariates. Results: Compared with those with good/excellent work ability scores, the hazard ratios of disability pension after adjusting for all covariates were 9.84 (95% CI 6.68–14.49) for poor and 2.25 (CI 95% 1.51–3.35) for moderate work ability score. For future work ability, the hazard ratio was 8.19 (95% CI 4.71–14.23) among those with poor future work ability. The incidence rate ratios of accumulated long-term sickness absence days were 3.08 (95% CI 2.19–4.32) and 1.59 (95% CI 1.32–1.92) for poor and moderate work ability scores, and 1.51 (95% CI 0.97–2.36) for poor future work ability. Conclusions: The single items of work ability score and future work ability predicted register-based disability pension equally well, but work ability score was a better predictor of register-based long-term sickness absence days than future work ability in a three-year follow-up. Both items seem to be of use especially when examining the risk of poor work ability for disability but also for long sick leave.
Maternity leave duration and adverse pregnancy outcomes: An international country-level comparison
Authors: Kwegyir-Afful Emma , Adu George , Spelten Evelien R. , Räsänen Kimmo , Verbeek Jos
Published: December 2017

Aim: Preterm birth and low birthweight (LBW) lead to infant morbidity and mortality. The causes are unknown. This study evaluates the association between duration of maternity leave and birth outcomes at country level. Method: We compiled data on duration of maternity leave for 180 countries of which 36 specified prenatal leave, 190 specified income, 183 specified preterm birth rates and 185 specified the LBW rate. Multivariate and seemingly unrelated regression analyses were done in STATA. Results: Mean maternity leave duration was 15.4 weeks ( SD=7.7; range 4–52 weeks). One additional week of maternity leave was associated with a 0.09% lower preterm rate (95% confidence interval [CI] –0.15 to −0.04) adjusting for income and being an African country. An additional week of maternity leave was associated with a 0.14% lower rate of LBW (95% CI –0.24 to −0.05). Mean prenatal maternity leave across 36 countries was six weeks ( SD=2.7; range 2–14 weeks). One week of prenatal maternity leave was associated with a 0.07% lower preterm rate (95% CI –0.10 to 0.24) and a 0.06% lower rate of LBW (95% CI –0.14 to 0.27), but these results were not statistically significant. By adjusting for income status categories, the preterm birth rate was 1.53% higher and the LBW rate was 2.17% higher in Africa compared to the rest of the world. Conclusions: Maternity leave duration is significantly associated with birth outcomes. However, the association was not significant among 36 countries that specified prenatal maternity leave. Studies are needed to evaluate the correlation between prenatal leave and birth outcomes.
Are therapists likely to use a new empirically supported treatment if required?
Authors: Patterson Silver Wolf David A , van den Berk-Clark Carissa , Williams Sha-Lai , Dulmus Catherine N
Published: December 2017

There continues to be a movement to address the gap between empirically supported treatment research and social services practice. While the general social services field values services based in science, many therapists’ practices are not grounded in and directed by empirical evidence. This study was a secondary analysis of data collected from 17 (N = 17) social service organizations. The final sample consisted of 440 frontline therapists.

Findings

We find that about one-third (32.7%) of therapists are reluctant to use a new intervention if required by their state, agency, or supervisor. These reluctant empirically supported treatment users had higher levels of field experience (aOR = 1.02, 95% CI = 1.00, 1.05, p = .002) and more years at their present job (aOR = 1.05, 95% CI = 1.01, 1.09, p = .001). We also find an association between race (white versus nonwhite) and the likelihood of being reluctant to using empirically supported treatments, with nonwhites being more likely to be reluctant to use empirically supported treatments (aOR = 1.72, 95% CI = 1.00, 2.95, p = .001).

Applications

Outcomes indicate that there is a cohort of frontline clinical therapists who are reluctant to use new, empirically supported interventions even if mandated to do so. Organizational leaders may need to consider barriers such as therapist demographics (e.g. years in the field or at the agency), client demographics (e.g. race/ethnicity concordance), and the perceived level of cultural appropriateness of empirically supported treatments by therapists when determining strategies to achieve increased use of empirically supported treatments.
An equilibrium phase spray model for high-pressure fuel injection and engine combustion simulations
Authors: Yue Zongyu , Reitz Rolf D
Published: December 2017

High-pressure fuel injection impacts mixture preparation, ignition and combustion in engines and other applications. Experimental studies have revealed the mixing-controlled and local phase equilibrium characteristics of liquid vaporization in high injection pressure diesel engine sprays. However, most computational fluid dynamics models for engine simulations spend much effort in solving for non-equilibrium spray processes. In this study, an equilibrium phase spray model is explored. The model is developed based on jet theory and a phase equilibrium assumption, without modeling drop breakup, collision and finite-rate interfacial vaporization processes. The proposed equilibrium phase spray model is validated extensively against experimental data in simulations of the engine combustion network Spray A and in an optical diesel engine. Predictions of liquid/vapor penetration, fuel mass fraction distribution, heat release rate and emission formation are all in good agreement with experimental data. In addition, good computational efficiency and grid-independency are also seen with the present equilibrium phase model. The examined operating conditions cover wide ranges that are relevant to internal combustion engines, which include ambient temperatures from 700 to 1400 K, ambient densities from 7.6 to 22.8 kg/m3 and injection pressures from 1200 to 1500 bar for diesel sprays.
Death by streaming or vinyl revival? Exploring the spatial dynamics and value-creating strategies of independent record shops in Stockholm
Authors: Hracs Brian J. , Jansson Johan
Published: December 2017

The contemporary retail landscape is in flux, and there is a growing perception that shopping at bricks and mortar stores is more expensive and time-consuming than shopping online. For music, illegal downloading and streaming have restructured the retail landscape and put thousands of record shops out of business. Yet, some retailers remain attractive consumption spaces. Drawing on a qualitative case study of independent record shops in Stockholm, this article considers three value-creating strategies that sustain these physical retailers in the digital age: cultivating in-store consumer experiences, creating value through curation, and tapping into global markets by going online.
Thinking flexibility, rethinking boundaries: Students’ educational choices in contemporary societies
Authors: Tsatsaroni Anna , Sarakinioti Antigone
Published: December 2017

This article provides an analysis of the processes through which young people make educational choices and shape their trajectories in globalised societies of lifelong learning (LLL). Investigating the articulation of LLL discourses in national contexts and local educational sites, it draws on both Foucault and Bernstein for theoretical insights: it shows how thinking with Foucault we can better exploit the generative power of Bernstein’s theory in complex fields of educational research. The article draws on a study carried out in the Greek Institutions of Vocational Education and Training (IVETs), which in response to European Union policies, offer training at post-secondary level in a range of specialties, broadening the limited choice opportunities for young people, especially of vulnerable social groups. Through semi-structured interviews with trainees, the study aimed to explore the relations between previous educational trajectories, their general understandings of LLL environments and demands, their choice to continue their learning trajectory at the IVETs, and their experience from their studies there. Tracing the movements of subjects within the temporal and spatial limits of the LLL discourses contributes in that it allows us to think of ‘flexibility’ as a conceptual means of identifying forms of regulation and identity formation in the new era.
A personal space in the Web. Bases, processes and evaluation of a collaborative digital design experience for significant learning
Authors: Tosello María Elena , Bredanini María Georgina
Published: December 2017

We live constantly networked, performing multiple activities in virtual spaces which are intertwined with physical space, shaping an augmented and symbiotic chronotope. Considering that personal space is an area surrounding individuals that provides a framework for developing activities wouldn’t it be necessary to count on a virtual personal space? This article presents the bases, processes, and results of a didactic experience which purpose was to imagine and design a personal space in the Web, representing its properties and characteristics through a transmedia narrative unfolded through diverse languages and media. Three cases are presented, selected because they propose different strategies to approach the problem. In order to perform a comparative analysis of the results, the categories were defined based on the triadic structure of Peirce’s Theory of Signs, which in turn were divided into sub-categories that incorporate the Principles of Design and Evaluation of Interface-Spaces.
Impact of metabolic control on macular thickness in diabetic macular oedema
Authors: Peng Yi-Jie , Tsai Meng-Ju
Published: December 2017

Purpose:

To investigate the impact of metabolic control on macular thickness measured using optical coherence tomography in patients with diabetic retinopathy with or without macular oedema.

Methods:

A total of 124 patients with diabetic retinopathy ( n = 70 without macular oedema and n = 54 with macular oedema) were enrolled. Optical coherence tomography parameters measured included central macular thickness and total macular volume. Metabolic factors with correlation to optical coherence tomography parameters were fasting plasma glucose, glycosylated haemoglobin, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein and estimated glomerular filtration rate. Multiple linear regression models were used to evaluate associations between optical coherence tomography parameters and metabolic factors.

Results:

Higher glycosylated haemoglobin values were correlated with increased central macular thickness in patients without macular oedema ( R = 0.289, p = 0.015), whereas glycosylated haemoglobin values were inversely associated with central macular thickness in patients with macular oedema ( R = –0.374, p = 0.005). Both were found to be statistically significant after adjusting for age, sex and diabetic retinopathy severity in addition to other metabolic factors ( p = 0.009 and p = 0.002, respectively).

Conclusion:

Strict metabolic control may not be associated with better macular thickness in diabetic patients with co-existing macular oedema.
Automatic Seizure Detection Based on Morphological Features Using One-Dimensional Local Binary Pattern on Long-Term EEG
Authors: Shanir P. P. Muhammed , Khan Kashif Ahmad , Khan Yusuf Uzzaman , Farooq Omar , Adeli Hojjat
Published: December 2017

Epileptic neurological disorder of the brain is widely diagnosed using the electroencephalography (EEG) technique. EEG signals are nonstationary in nature and show abnormal neural activity during the ictal period. Seizures can be identified by analyzing and obtaining features of EEG signal that can detect these abnormal activities. The present work proposes a novel morphological feature extraction technique based on the local binary pattern (LBP) operator. LBP provides a unique decimal value to a sample point by weighing the binary outcomes after thresholding the neighboring samples with the present sample point. These LBP values assist in capturing the rising and falling edges of the EEG signal, thus providing a morphologically featured discriminating pattern for epilepsy detection. In the present work, the variability in the LBP values is measured by calculating the sum of absolute difference of the consecutive LBP values. Interquartile range is calculated over the preprocessed EEG signal to provide dispersion measure in the signal. For classification purpose, K-nearest neighbor classifier is used, and the performance is evaluated on 896.9 hours of data from CHB-MIT continuous EEG database. Mean accuracy of 99.7% and mean specificity of 99.8% is obtained with average false detection rate of 0.47/h and sensitivity of 99.2% for 136 seizures.
Leading for Instructional Improvement in the Context of Accountability: Central Office Leadership
Authors: Rigby Jessica Goodman , Corriell Rebecca , Kuhl Katie J.
Published: December 2017

This case was written to help prepare central office leaders who are expected to design systems and lead toward instructional improvement in the context of both educational accountability and implementation of standards with increased rigor. The intent of this case study is to encourage educators to examine the complex and multiple challenges of policy design and implementation when policy goals are far from current practice. Educators studying this case should examine the costs and benefits of bridging and buffering across organizational levels and how to best craft coherence between goals, needs, and resources at the central office and school levels.
Experimental and numerical study of turbulent mixed convection in a cavity with an internal heat source
Authors: Piña-Ortiz A , Hinojosa JF , Navarro JMA , Xamán J
Published: December 2017

In this study, experimental and numerical results of heat transfer in a ventilated cavity with an internal heat source are presented. The cavity represents a ventilated room with a person inside in a 1:3 scale. It has a vertical wall receiving a constant and uniform heat flux, while the opposite wall is kept at a constant temperature. The rest of the walls is adiabatic. The cavity has multiple inlets and outlets of air, considering ventilation by ducts of an air-conditioning system. Experimental temperature profiles were obtained at six different depths and heights consisting of 14 thermocouples each. Six turbulence models were evaluated against experimental data. The minimum average percentage differences between numerical and experimental average Nusselt numbers of the hot wall and heat source were 12.9% and 4.1% with the renormalized k–ε turbulence model.
RNA interference-based functional knockdown of the voltage-gated potassium channel Kv7.2 in dorsal root ganglion neurons after in vitro and in vivo gene transfer by adeno-associated virus vectors
Authors: Valdor Markus , Wagner Anke , Röhrs Viola , Berg Johanna , Fechner Henry , Schröder Wolfgang , Tzschentke Thomas M , Bahrenberg Gregor , Christoph Thomas , Kurreck Jens
Published: December 2017

Activation of the neuronal potassium channel Kv7.2 encoded by the KCNQ2 gene has recently been shown to be an attractive mechanism to inhibit nociceptive transmission. However, potent, selective, and clinically proven activators of Kv7.2/Kv7.3 currents with analgesic properties are still lacking. An important prerequisite for the development of new drugs is a model to test the selectivity of novel agonists by abrogating Kv7.2/Kv7.3 function. Since constitutive knockout mice are not viable, we developed a model based on RNA interference-mediated silencing of KCNQ2. By delivery of a KCNQ2-specific short hairpin RNA with adeno-associated virus vectors, we completely abolished the activity of the specific Kv7.2/Kv7.3-opener ICA-27243 in rat sensory neurons. Results obtained in the silencing experiments were consistent between freshly prepared and cryopreserved dorsal root ganglion neurons, as well as in dorsal root ganglion neurons dissociated and cultured after in vivo administration of the silencing vector by intrathecal injections into rats. Interestingly, the tested associated virus serotypes substantially differed with respect to their transduction capability in cultured neuronal cell lines and primary dorsal root ganglion neurons and the in vivo transfer of transgenes by intrathecal injection of associated virus vectors. However, our study provides the proof-of-concept that RNA interference-mediated silencing of KCNQ2 is a suitable approach to create an ex vivo model for testing the specificity of novel Kv7.2/Kv7.3 agonists.
Best practice in the management of storage symptoms in male lower urinary tract symptoms: a review of the evidence base
Authors: Gacci Mauro , Sebastianelli Arcangelo , Spatafora Pietro , Corona Giovanni , Serni Sergio , De Ridder Dirk , Gravas Stavros , Abrams Paul
Published: December 2017

Storage lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are characterized by an altered bladder sensation, increased daytime frequency, nocturia, urgency and urgency incontinence. Some evidence underlines the role of metabolic factors, pelvic ischemia, prostatic chronic inflammation and associated comorbidities in the pathophysiology of storage LUTS. A detailed evaluation of the severity of storage LUTS, and the concomitance of these symptoms with voiding and postmicturition symptoms, is mandatory for improving the diagnosis and personalizing treatment.

A detailed medical history with comorbidities and associated risk factors, a physical examination, a comprehensive analysis of all the features of LUTS, including their impact on quality of life, and a frequency–volume chart (FVC) or bladder diary, are recommended for men with storage LUTS.

Several drugs are available for the treatment of LUTS secondary to benign prostatic obstruction (BPO). Alpha-blockers (α-blockers), 5-α-reductase inhibitors and phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors are commonly used to manage storage LUTS occurring with voiding symptoms associated with BPO.

Muscarinic receptor antagonists and Beta 3-agonists (β3-agonists) alone, or in combination with α-blockers, represent the gold standard of treatment in men with predominant storage LUTS. There is no specific recommendation regarding the best treatment options for storage LUTS after prostatic surgery.
The X-Project in Korea: Reflecting Molitor’s Emerging Issue Analysis
Authors: Park Seongwon
Published: December 2017

Molitor mentions that victims, relatives, close friends, or sympathizers of victims could be the vanguard for new change. If futurists want to detect emerging issues, they should hear from those who are suffering. For this reason, the X-Project pursued a project in which the public from all walks of life was asked to raise questions that reflected the desperate needs of the public. Out of the experimental research, we designed the process of the X-Project in which the research teams tackle serious and dire problems, with a sense of challenge.
Color Constancy in Two-Dimensional and Three-Dimensional Scenes: Effects of Viewing Methods and Surface Texture
Authors: Morimoto Takuma , Mizokami Yoko , Yaguchi Hirohisa , Buck Steven L.
Published: December 2017

There has been debate about how and why color constancy may be better in three-dimensional (3-D) scenes than in two-dimensional (2-D) scenes. Although some studies have shown better color constancy for 3-D conditions, the role of specific cues remains unclear. In this study, we compared color constancy for a 3-D miniature room (a real scene consisting of actual objects) and 2-D still images of that room presented on a monitor using three viewing methods: binocular viewing, monocular viewing, and head movement. We found that color constancy was better for the 3-D room; however, color constancy for the 2-D image improved when the viewing method caused the scene to be perceived more like a 3-D scene. Separate measurements of the perceptual 3-D effect of each viewing method also supported these results. An additional experiment comparing a miniature room and its image with and without texture suggested that surface texture of scene objects contributes to color constancy.
Treating nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a review of efficacy and safety
Authors: Mills Elizabeth P. , Brown K. Paige D. , Smith Jennifer D. , Vang Phillip W. , Trotta Katie
Published: December 2017

Objective:

To review current literature for the efficacy and safety of treatment for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Data sources:

A PubMed literature search from January 1990 to June 2017 was conducted using the search terms nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, diabetes mellitus, type 2, therapy, treatment, treat, therapeutics, nonalcoholic fatty liver, nonalcoholic hepatosteatosis, NASH, NAFLD, metformin, and statin. Bibliographies of chosen articles were reviewed.

Study selection and data extraction:

Relevant articles on metformin, thiazolidinediones (TZD), glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RA), and statins for the treatment of NAFLD which included patients with T2DM were reviewed. A total of 23 relevant studies were found and included randomized controlled, observational, and open-label designs, as well as three meta-analyses.

Data synthesis:

Metformin combined with weight loss provides a modest improvement in steatosis and no improvement in fibrosis in patients with NAFLD and T2DM. TZDs showed positive results on fibrosis and resolution of NASH but at least half of patients studied were nonresponders. GLP-1 RAs also showed favorable results on reductions in transaminases and steatosis and improvements in insulin sensitivity and weight loss but lack efficacy data for resolution of NASH or improvement in fibrosis scores. Statins showed favorable results on reductions in transaminases but mixed results for improvement in steatosis and fibrosis scores.

Conclusion:

All reviewed treatment options are safe for management of NAFLD in patients with T2DM but long-term histological improvements are minimal. TZDs are efficacious for resolution of NASH and improvements in fibrosis but long-term use is required to maintain these results.
Inferior colliculus syndrome: Clinical magnetic resonance microscopy anatomic analysis on a 7 T system
Authors: Kwee Ingrid L , Matsuzawa Hitoshi , Nakada Kazunori , Fujii Yukihiko , Nakada Tsutomu
Published: December 2017

We performed detailed structural analysis of a case of a unilateral lesion of the inferior colliculus using magnetic resonance microscopy on a 7 T system. A 36-year-old right-handed man had an intracerebral hemorrhage circumscribed to the right inferior colliculus. Following recovery from the acute phase, he had only residual left ear tinnitus and left trochlear palsy and no hearing loss. Microscopic imaging analysis on a 7 T magnetic resonance imaging system demonstrated a chronic lesion confined primarily to the right central nucleus of the inferior colliculus. Sound localization was significantly impaired in the contralateral hemispace. The case confirms prior clinical reports of unilateral inferior colliculus dysfunction, the specific anatomic characterization of which was demonstrated in this case by magnetic resonance microscopy. It furthermore supports the notion that central nucleus of the inferior colliculus dysfunction can produce tinnitus and sound localization deficits, without hearing loss
Transition-Focused Professional Development: An Annotated Bibliography of Essential Elements and Features of Professional Development
Authors: Holzberg Debra G. , Clark Kelly A. , Morningstar Mary E.
Published: December 2017

Transition professional development (PD) has been identified as a way to improve transition services; however, there is a dearth of literature on transition-focused PD. To learn more about the essential features of effective PD, 73 published articles were evaluated in the area of PD in both secondary transition and special education. Articles were selected that exemplified four essential elements for PD: (a) content focus, (b) active learning, (c) team-based participation, and (d) sustained planning and implementation. We identified specific features of PD that positively influenced teachers including (a) coaching and feedback, (b) collective participation among teachers, (c) consistent “manualized” content and training, and (d) active learning embedded in PD.
K-rod dynamic internal fixation versus microendoscopic discectomy for the treatment of single-segment lumbar disc herniation
Authors: Qu Yang , Cheng Meng , Dong Rongpeng , Kang Mingyang , Zhou Haohan , Zhao Jianwu
Published: December 2017

Purpose:

This study compared the clinical outcome of K-rod dynamic internal fixation versus microendoscopic discectomy (MED) for the treatment of single-segment lumbar disc herniation.

Methods:

This retrospective study included 34 patients with L4-L5 single-segment lumbar disc herniation who underwent K-rod dynamic internal fixation ( n = 18) or MED ( n = 16). The pain was evaluated by the Oswestry disability index (ODI) and visual analogue scale (VAS). The neurological function was assessed by the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scores. The height of intervertebral space was calculated using X-ray images, and the disc degeneration was evaluated based on Pfirrmann scores. The mean follow-up time was 31 months (range, 18–46 months).

Results:

In both groups, the ODI scores, VAS scores and JOA scores were significantly improved at the last follow-up compared with the preoperative values ( p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the improvement of ODI, VAS and JOA scores between the two groups ( p > 0.05). The height of intervertebral space in the surgical segments, proximal segments and distal segments, was significantly greater in the K-rod group than in the MED group. The disc degeneration occurred more in the MED group than in the K-rod group ( p < 0.05).

Conclusion:

K-rod internal fixation and MED produce satisfactory outcomes in the treatment of single-segment lumbar disc herniation. K-rod internal fixation is superior to MED in preventing adjacent segment degeneration.
Adhesive capsulitis of the hip
Authors: Kim Hee Joong , Yoo Jeong Joon , Kwak Hong Suk , Jeong Hyung Jun , Kim Min Nyeon , Seo Wonyeong
Published: December 2017

Purpose:

Adhesive capsulitis of the hip (ACH) is not a well-defined disease entity. We evaluated the change in the clinical features of patients whose chief complaint was inability to sit cross-legged on the floor. All patients had painful limitation in hip joint motion. Based on the diagnosis of ACH, active stretching exercise (ASE) was recommended.

Methods:

In February 2013 and June 2014, a total of 44 patients (50 hips), who visited outpatient clinic in 2011, were evaluated by telephone interviews. Recovery of hip motion was analyzed according to compliance with ASE and abnormalities found on plane radiographs and magnetic resonance (MR) images.

Results:

There were 27 women and 17 men with mean age of 51.7 years. In the first telephone interview, 40 patients (45 hips) reported improvement in hip motion but 4 patients (5 hips) reported absolutely no improvement. Compliance with ASE did not affect recovery of motion ( p = 0.225). On plain radiographs, 10 patients (22.7%) had abnormal finding in both hips. Those abnormal findings were not correlated with symptom and did not show adverse effect on motion recovery. Sixteen patients took MR images outside, and abnormal findings such as round ligament or labral tear were observed in nine patients. Those abnormal findings neither correlated with the symptom nor affected motion recovery adversely. In the second telephone interview, nine hips of further improvement and two hips of recurrence were identified.

Conclusions:

Most cases showed improvement in the range of motion with or without ASE. Surgical treatments including arthroscopy seemed to be unnecessary for these patients.
Role of Cortical Auditory Evoked Potentials in Reducing the Age at Hearing Aid Fitting in Children With Hearing Loss Identified by Newborn Hearing Screening
Authors: Mehta Kinjal , Watkin Peter , Baldwin Margaret , Marriage Josephine , Mahon Merle , Vickers Deborah
Published: December 2017

Recording of free-field cortical auditory evoked potential (CAEP) responses to speech tokens was introduced into the audiology management for infants with a permanent childhood hearing impairment (PCHI) during 2011–2015 at a U.K. service. Children with bilateral PCHI were studied from two sequential cohorts. Thirty-four children had followed an audiology pathway prior to CAEP introduction, and 44 children followed a pathway after the introduction of CAEP and were tested with unaided and aided CAEP responses. Data analysis explored the age of diagnosis, hearing aid fitting, and referral for cochlear implant (CI) assessment for each of these groups. CAEP offered a novel educative process for the parents and audiologists supporting decision-making for hearing aid fitting and CI referral. Delays in hearing aid fitting and CI referral were categorized as being due to the audiologist’s recommendation or parental choice. Results showed that the median age of hearing aid fitting prior to CAEP introduction was 9.2 months. After the inclusion of CAEP recording in the infant pathways, it was 3.9 months. This reduction was attributable to earlier fitting of hearing aids for children with mild and moderate hearing losses, for which the median age fell from 19 to 5 months. Children with profound hearing loss were referred for CI assessment at a significantly earlier age following the introduction of CAEP. Although there has also been a national trend for earlier hearing aid fitting in children, the current study demonstrates that the inclusion of CAEP recording in the pathway facilitated earlier hearing aid fitting for milder impairments.
Exploring Accelerometer Versus Self-Report Sleep Assessment in Youth With Concussion
Authors: Berger Ivona , Obeid Joyce , Timmons Brian W. , DeMatteo Carol
Published: December 2017

This study examines accelerometer-based and self-report assessment of sleep disturbance from a larger prospective cohort of youth 5 to 18 years of age with postconcussive injury. Twenty-one participants with self-reported sleep disturbance were evaluated using accelerometers. Participants completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) every 48 hours and also measured sleep via accelerometry. Correlations were conducted matching PSQI scores to accelerometry assessment. PSQI scores were significantly correlated only with “average number of awakenings” ( r = −0.21; P = .049). Accelerometer-measured mean (standard deviation) sleep efficiency was 79.9% (5.20%), with normal sleep defined as >85%. The mean (standard deviation) PSQI global score was 10.5 (3.78) out of 21, where scores of >5 indicate subjective insomnia. Results suggest the PSQI and accelerometers may be measuring different attributes of sleep. Both may be needed as actual sleep is important but so is perception of good sleep. These findings call for further validity testing of objective sleep assessment measures and commonly used self-report tools.
Changing urban form in a shrinking city
Authors: Hollander Justin , Johnson Michael , Drew Rachel Bogardus , Tu Jingyu
Published: December 2017

This paper uses building footprint data in a shrinking city, Baltimore, MD, in 1972 and 2010 to achieve two primary research objectives. The first is to understand the historical patterns of housing construction and demolition in selected row house neighborhoods in Baltimore between 1972 and 2010. The second is to understand changes in housing footprints, and associations between these changes and physical and socio-economic characteristics in selected neighborhoods. We find that housing losses and associated changes in building footprints have shown substantial variation across our study area and exhibit clustering within our study area. Moreover, while housing loss is strongly associated with certain physical factors, there is a weaker association between housing loss and changes in certain socio-economic neighborhood characteristics between 1970 and 2010. Our research findings provide support for targeted, evidence-based neighborhood-based strategies that encompass traditional as well as novel approaches to vacant land management.
Strong-Motion Characteristics and Visual Damage Assessment Around Seismic Stations in Kathmandu after the 2015 Gorkha, Nepal, Earthquake
Authors: Bijukchhen Subeg , Takai Nobuo , Shigefuji Michiko , Ichiyanagi Masayoshi , Sasatani Tsutomu
Published: December 2017

A rapid visual damage assessment of buildings around four strong-motion seismic stations in Kathmandu Valley was carried out after the damaging Gorkha, Nepal earthquake (Mw7.8) of 25 April 2015. The waveforms of the main shock recorded at these stations were compared with the damage to buildings around the stations. The damage was found to be related to strong-motion characteristics of the earthquake. A dominance of long-period oscillation could be observed in the records. The damage to low-rise buildings in the valley was less than anticipated from an earthquake of this magnitude given that the majority of buildings were built without proper engineering consideration. The acceleration response spectra of one of the sedimentary sites show high response in the 1–2 s period range, and nearly 10% of the buildings, which were all low-rise, suffered damage around this site.
Hydropower Infrastructure Performance after the 2015 Gorkha, Nepal, Earthquake Sequence
Authors: Pehlivan Menzer , Madugo Christopher Madden , Macdonald Amy , Rayamajhi Deepak , Hashash Youssef M. A. , Tiwari Binod
Published: December 2017

Hydropower infrastructure, the primary source of electricity in Nepal, experienced severe damage following the 2015 Gorkha earthquake sequence, resulting in a 15% loss in the country's energy production. The performance of hydropower infrastructure during and after the sequence was one of the unique focuses of the Geotechnical Extreme Events Reconnaissance (GEER) study. The GEER team visited damaged hydropower projects along the Trishuli and Sunkoshi rivers by road and on foot, along with the ongoing 465-MW Upper Tamakoshi hydropower project by helicopter. The primary cause of damage to the hydropower infrastructure was landslide and rockfall debris falling on powerhouses, penstocks, and dam structures. Moreover, landslides blocked road access to many sites, delaying necessary repairs to damaged structures and resumption of power generation. Power production in Nepal before and after the 2015 Gorkha earthquake sequence, seismic performance of visited hydropower projects, and short- and long-term effects, together with residual risks for Nepal's hydro-power infrastructure, are discussed in this paper.