bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“I Refuse to Sink”: Narratives of the Dispossessed Within Refugee Stories on the Balkan Route
Authors: Jovanović Srđan M.
Published: October 2017

With the arrival of the refugees from the Middle East, especially since 2015, Europe has become a xenophobic hotbed. Discourses, practices, and policies promoting and supporting xenophobia have become reality. In this article, we seek to present stories of those who have arrived to Europea via the Balkan Route, in a qualitative research fashion, concentrating on several narratives collected by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees [UNHCR] personnel via interviews of refugees within the Balkans. The article further stresses the intersectional nature of discrimination, as well as a narrative analysis way in combating it.
Factors Associated With Wandering Behaviors in Veterans With Mild Dementia: A Prospective Longitudinal Community-Based Study
Authors: Barrett Blake , Bulat Tatjana , Schultz Susan K. , Luther Stephen L.
Published: October 2017

Objective:

To investigate baseline factors associated with caregiver-reported wandering among community-dwelling veterans with mild dementia.

Methods:

Veterans with mild dementia (N = 143) and their caregivers participated in a 2-year prospective longitudinal study. Measures assessed wandering, daily function, behavior, cognition, and personality features. Wandering was dichotomized as present or absent across study periods, and associations with baseline characteristics were examined.

Results:

One-quarter of participants demonstrated caregiver-reported wandering at 1 or more study visits, with 14% to 15% wandering at any 1 visit. Wandering was associated with significantly lower baseline scores in performance of daily function, behavioral response to stress, gait, and balance, and conscientiousness.

Conclusions:

This novel study evaluated wandering in a community-dwelling sample of veterans with mild dementia. Wandering was associated with a specific personality trait, poorer behavioral response to stress as well as greater functional and gait/balance impairment. These findings may assist in developing community-based interventions for caregivers.
Progress Monitoring Change in Children’s Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Functioning: Advancing the State of the Science
Authors: Owens Julie Sarno , Evans Steven W.
Published: October 2017

The studies in this special series examine the effectiveness of direct behavior ratings (DBRs) for use as a progress monitoring tool. In this article, we comment on the findings of the studies in the context of the broader school-based assessment movement and discuss areas for future inquiry within this line of research.
Levels of Automation in Human Factors Models for Automation Design: Why We Might Consider Throwing the Baby Out With the Bathwater
Authors: Jamieson Greg A. , Skraaning Gyrd
Published: October 2017

This paper responds to Kaber’s reflections on the empirical grounding and design utility of the levels-of-automation (LOA) framework. We discuss the suitability of the existing human performance data for supporting design decisions in complex work environments. We question why human factors design guidance seems wedded to a model of questionable predictive value. We challenge the belief that LOA frameworks offer useful input to the design and operation of highly automated systems. Finally, we seek to expand the design space for human–automation interaction beyond the familiar human factors constructs. Taken together, our positions paint LOA frameworks as abstractions suffering a crisis of confidence that Kaber’s remedies cannot restore.
The Effects of Ramadan Intermittent Fasting (RIF) on Spirometric Data of Stable COPD Patients: A Pilot Study
Authors: Zouari Hajer , Latiri Imed , Mahjoub Mohamed , Boussarsar Mohamed , Benzarti Mohamed , Abdelghani Ahmed , Ben Saad Helmi
Published: October 2017

No previous study has raised the effects of RIF on lung function data of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. The objective of the present study was to assess the effects of RIF on spirometric data measured in male patients with a stable COPD. Sixteen patients with stable COPD (mean ± SD of age: 64 ± 7 years) who fasted during Ramadan volunteered to the study. Three sessions (Before-R, End-R, and After-R) were selected for spirometry tests that were consistently performed 2.5–4.5 hr before fasting break. Assessment sessions comprised: forced vital capacity (FVC), 1st s forced expiratory volume (FEV1), FEV1/FVC, peak expiratory flow (PEF), maximal mid-expiratory flow (MMEF), and forced expiratory flow rate at the x% of FVC to be exhaled (FEFx%). A reversibility test was performed only during the Before-Ramadan session. Spirometric data were expressed in percentages of local reference values. Findings were analyzed by applying repeated measures analysis of variance. The mean ± SD of the postbronchodilator FEV1/FVC ratio and the FEV1 were, respectively, 0.52 ± 0.14 and 48 ± 19%. The mean ± SD of FEV1 (Before-R: 47 ± 19, End-R: 45 ± 18, After-R: 44 ± 19%), FVC (Before-R: 73 ± 18, End-R: 71 ± 16, After-R: 69 ± 17%), FEV1/FVC (Before-R: 67 ± 16, End-R: 66 ± 16, After-R: 65 ± 16%), PEF (Before-R: 46 ± 19, End-R: 47 ± 22, After-R: 45 ± 21%), MMEF (Before-R: 19 ± 10, End-R: 18 ± 8, After-R: 18 ± 9%), FEF25% (Before-R: 16 ± 6, End-R: 16 ± 5, After-R: 15 ± 5%), FEF50% (Before-R: 21 ± 14, End-R: 20 ± 12, After-R: 20 ± 12%) and FEF75% (Before-R: 27 ± 19, End-R: 27 ± 19, After-R: 27 ± 19%) were not significantly influenced by RIF. RIF did not bring about any significant changes in the spirometric data of stable COPD male patients fasting the 2016 holy month of Ramadan.
Opinions and Perceptions Regarding Traditional Male Circumcision With Related Deaths and Complications
Authors: Douglas Mbuyiselo , Maluleke Thelmah Xavela , Manyaapelo Thabang , Pinkney-Atkinson Vicki
Published: October 2017

The notion of manhood values is highly treasured and respected by various cultural groups practicing traditional male circumcision (TMC) in South Africa. This study was conducted at Libode, Eastern Cape, South Africa. The goals of this study were to (a) explore opinions and perceptions related to TMC among boys from 12 to 18 years of age, and (b) determine the actions to be taken to prevent high mortality and morbidity rates related to TMC. A simple random sampling was used to select three focus group discussions with 36 circumcised boys, and purposive sampling was used to select 10 key informants. The overarching themes collated included the following: (a) accepted age for circumcision, (b) causes attributed to deaths and complications, (c) TMC is preferred to medical male circumcision, and (d) acceptable community actions to prevent the problem. The study concludes with discussion and recommendation of a comprehensive health promotion program that is considerate of community opinions and perceptions in the prevention of deaths and complications affecting the circumcision initiates and at the same time respecting the culture.
Cyclophosphamide and regional citrate anticoagulation: A sour combination?
Authors: Hendra Tim , Simon Jonathan , Lowe Alastair
Published: October 2017

We present a case of a woman in her 70 s, on cyclophosphamide for multiple myeloma, who was admitted to critical care with grade III acute kidney injury. Renal replacement therapy with regional citrate anticoagulation was commenced. Shortly thereafter her systemic-ionised calcium levels fell and remained stubbornly low until post-filter calcium return was doubled. Her total-to-ionised calcium ratio gradually increased and so, to avoid further accumulation of citrate, anticoagulation was changed to heparin. Cyclophosphamide, which accumulates in renal failure, is known to interfere with key enzymes involved in the tricarboxylic acid cycle. We postulate that cyclophosphamide interfered with her citrate metabolism, resulting in persistent systemic chelation of calcium.
Reforming traditional PPP models to cope with the challenges of smart cities
Authors: Cruz Carlos Oliveira , Sarmento Joaquim Miranda
Published: October 2017

Growing urbanization trends, together with a greater environmental awareness, are transforming cities into game changers in the sustainability game. Cities are under pressure in both developed as well as developing economies. In developed countries, the challenge is to be able to tackle a lack of infrastructure, such as clean water and sanitation and mass transit transport systems. In developed countries, the challenges are distinct, but not less. There are growing needs for a renewal of infrastructures, such as water, transportation and energy systems, which deteriorate over time, and the related increasing challenges regarding the sustainability of the systems. Drivers of change include lower costs, greater levels of efficiency, better response to natural disasters (resilience), an ability to provide a good service, among others. Cities, regulators and operators are focused on improving innovation and develop truly smart cities and smart infrastructure. Public–private partnerships (PPPs) have been at the forefront of infrastructure development and management, however, questions exist regarding existing models which are usable for smart infrastructure. Our thesis is that existing models of PPP need to be significantly restructured, to be able to provide an adequate response to the smart infrastructure challenges and to be a driving force to make cities smarter. Greater flexibility is necessary, as is a profound change of the existing regulatory and procurement models, in order to ensure that the private sector will continue to have a pivotal role with regards to infrastructure, financing and management.
The Impact of Visibility on Teamwork, Collaborative Communication, and Security in Emergency Departments: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Gharaveis Arsalan , Hamilton D. Kirk , Pati Debajyoti , Shepley Mardelle
Published: October 2017

The aim of this study was to examine the influence of visibility on teamwork, collaborative communication, and security issues in emergency departments (EDs). This research explored whether with high visibility in EDs, teamwork and collaborative communication can be improved while the security issues will be reduced. Visibility has been regarded as a critical design consideration and can be directly and considerably impacted by ED’s physical design. Teamwork is one of the major related operational outcomes of visibility and involves nurses, support staff, and physicians. The collaborative communication in an ED is another important factor in the process of care delivery and affects efficiency and safety. Furthermore, security is a behavioral factor in ED designs, which includes all types of safety including staff safety, patient safety, and the safety of visitors and family members. This qualitative study investigated the impact of visibility on teamwork, collaborative communication, and security issues in the ED. One-on-one interviews and on-site observation sessions were conducted in a community hospital. Corresponding data analysis was implemented by using computer plan analysis, observation and interview content, and theme analyses. The findings of this exploratory study provided a framework to identify visibility as an influential factor in ED design. High levels of visibility impact productivity and efficiency of teamwork and communication and improve the chance of lowering security issues. The findings of this study also contribute to the general body of knowledge about the effect of physical design on teamwork, collaborative communication, and security.
Providing Standards for Diabetes Care in the School Setting: A Review of the Colorado Model
Authors: Patrick Kathleen Ann , Wyckoff Leah
Published: October 2017

In 2013, a collaboration of organizations in Colorado developed a set of standards to address school nurses’ need for current diabetes care practices in the school setting. The Standards of Care for Diabetes Management in the School Setting are successful in meeting the needs of the school nurses in Colorado and are updated annually to continue to provide valid guidelines as diabetes care continues to become more technological and new approaches are adopted. A review of the standards, including background, development, contents, evaluations, and ongoing additions, is provided in this article.
Functional near-infrared spectroscopy is in moderate accordance with functional MRI in determining lateralisation of frontal language areas
Authors: Arun KM , Smitha KA , Rajesh PG , Kesavadas Chandrasekharan
Published: October 2017

Purpose

Understanding language dominance is crucial in pre-surgical evaluation of patients with epilepsy and in patients having a tumour close to the language area. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies are well established in evaluating language dominance. Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) is a non-invasive optical imaging modality that offers a convenient and affordable technique to image language-related cortical areas. This study investigates the agreement between results from task-based fMRI and fNIRS in determining language lateralisation.

Methods

Language laterality indices LIs were calculated from both fMRI and fNIRS measurements of the same individual volunteers by using an identical paradigm. Statistical measures of percentage agreement and kappa value have been calculated for testing agreement and reliability.

Results

A correlation analysis of the LI values shows a good correlation with r = 0.677 at p < 0.05. Statistical comparison of both fMRI and fNIRS methods for language lateralisation yielded a percentage agreement of 90% and a moderate kappa value of κ = 0.621.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that fNIRS is in moderate accordance with fMRI in determining lateralisation of the frontal language areas. It implies that the optical imaging technique can provide additional information on functional lateralisation of frontal language areas.
Multi-modality imaging of a left atrial myxoma
Authors: Jung Hae Won , Doh Joon Hyung , Chang Woo-Ik
Published: October 2017

Objectives:

Although echocardiography has traditionally been used to diagnose myxoma, invasive or non-invasive coronary angiography can be useful diagnostic tool before surgery.

Methods:

We present a case of an angiographically detected left atrial myxoma feeding from the left circumflex coronary artery.

Results:

The patient underwent open-heart surgery to remove the left atrial myxoma. After ligation of feeding artery, the mass was successfully excised

Conclusion:

Preoperative coronary angiography can offer additional valuable information moreover detecting coronary artery disease. Because, there is sudden death risk from embolization during invasive coronary angiography, preoperative cardiac computed tomography angiography should be considered to plan the surgery of myxoma.
National Trends for Primary and Revision Lumbar Disc Arthroplasty Throughout the United States
Authors: Saifi Comron , Cazzulino Alejandro , Park Caroline , Laratta Joseph , Louie Philip K. , Shillingford Jamal N. , Lehman Ronald , An Howard , Phillips Frank
Published: October 2017

Study Design:

Retrospective database study.

Objectives:

Analysis of economic and demographic data concerning lumbar disc arthroplasty (LDA) throughout the United States to improve value-based care and health care utilization.

Methods:

The National Inpatient Sample database was queried for patients who underwent primary or revision LDA between 2005 and 2013. Demographic and economic data included total surgeries, costs, length of stay, and frequency of routine discharge. The National Inpatient Sample database represents a 20% sample of discharges from US hospitals weighted to provide national estimates.

Results:

Primary LDA decreased 86% from 3059 to 420 from 2005 to 2013. The mean total cost of LDA increased 33% from $17 747 to $23 804. The mean length of stay decreased from 2.8 to 2.4 days. The mean routine discharge (home discharge without visiting nursing care) remained constant at 91%. Revision procedures (removal, supplemental fixation, or reoperation at the treated level) declined 30% from 194 to 135 cases over the study period. The mean revision burden, defined as the ratio of revision procedures to the sum of primary and revision procedures, was 12% (range 6% to 24%). The mean total cost of revisions ranged from $12 752 to $22 282.

Conclusions:

From 2005 to 2013, primary LDA significantly declined in the United States by 86% despite several studies pointing to improved efficacy and cost-efficiency. This disparity may be related to a lack of surgeon reimbursement from insurance companies. Congruently, the number of revision LDA cases has declined 30%, while revision burden has risen from 6% to 24%.
Allograft Versus Demineralized Bone Matrix in Instrumented and Noninstrumented Lumbar Fusion: A Systematic Review
Authors: Buser Zorica , Brodke Darrel S. , Youssef Jim A. , Rometsch Elke , Park Jong-Beom , Yoon S. Tim , Wang Jeffrey C. , Meisel Hans-Joerg
Published: October 2017

Study Design:

Systematic review.

Objectives:

The aim was to determine the fusion efficacy of allograft and demineralized bone matrix (DBM) in lumbar instrumented and noninstrumented fusion procedures for degenerative lumbar disorders.

Methods:

A literature search was conducted using the PubMed and Cochrane databases. To be considered, publications had to meet 4 criteria: patients were treated for a degenerative lumbar disorder, a minimum group size of 10 patients, use of allograft or DBM, and at least a 2-year follow-up. Data on the study population, follow-up time, surgery type, grafting material, fusion rates, and its definition were collected.

Results:

The search yielded 692 citations with 17 studies meeting the criteria including 4 retrospective and 13 prospective studies. Six studies used DBM and 11 employed allograft alone or in the combination with autograft. For the allograft, fusion rates ranged from 58% to 68% for noninstrumented and from 68% to 98% for instrumented procedures. For DBM, fusion rates were 83% for noninstrumented and between 60% and 100% for instrumented lumbar fusion procedures.

Conclusions:

Both allograft and DBM appeared to provide similar fusion rates in instrumented fusions. On the other hand, in noninstrumented procedures DBM was superior. However, a large variation in the type of surgery, outcomes collection, lack of control groups, and follow-up time prevented any significant conclusions. Thus, studies comparing the performance of allograft and DBM to adequate controls in large, well-defined patient populations and with a sufficient follow-up time are needed to establish the efficacy of these materials as adjuncts to fusion.
Decompression in Adult Lumbar Deformity Surgery Is Associated With Increased Perioperative Complications but Favorable Long-Term Outcomes
Authors: Karikari Isaac O. , Bridwell Keith H. , Elsamadicy Aladine A. , Lenke Lawrence G. , Sugrue Patrick , Bumpass David , Ahmad Azeem , Gum Jeffrey
Published: October 2017

Study Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Objectives:

To analyze the impact of performing a formal decompression in patients with adult lumbar scoliosis with symptomatic spinal stenosis on perioperative complications and long-term outcomes.

Methods:

Adult patients undergoing at least 5 levels of fusion to the sacrum with iliac fixation from 2002 to 2008 who had a minimum 5-year follow-up at one institution were studied. Patients who had 3-column osteotomy were excluded from the study. Perioperative complications and clinical outcomes (Scoliosis Research Society [SRS], Oswestry Disability Index [ODI], and Numerical Rating Scale [NRS] back/leg pain) were analyzed. Patients who underwent formal laminectomy/decompressions were compared with those who did not. Differences between the 2 groups were analyzed using Student’s t test.

Results:

A total of 147 patients were included in the study (Decompression: n = 55 [37%], No decompression: n = 92 [63%]). Average fusion levels for the decompression and no decompression groups were 11 and 12 levels, respectively ( P = .26). Mean improvements in SRS domains for decompression versus no decompression patients, respectively, were pain (1.1 vs 0.9, P = .3), function (0.7 vs 0.5, P = .09), self-image (1.1 vs 1.1, P = .9), and mental health (0.5 vs 0.4, P = .5). Furthermore, additional mean improvements were ODI (21 vs 21, P = .14), NRS-Back pain (3.0 vs 1.3, P = .16), and NRS-Leg pain (3.9 vs 0.5, P = .002). Complication rates between the decompression group and no decompression group differed in incidental durotomies (18.2% vs 0%) and cardiac-related (9.1% vs 1.1%).

Conclusions:

Performing a formal decompression in adult lumbar scoliosis with symptomatic spinal stenosis is associated with increased perioperative complications but favorable long-term clinical outcomes.
Risk Factors for Unplanned Reoperation Within 30 Days Following Elective Posterior Lumbar Spinal Fusion
Authors: Durand Wesley M. , Eltorai Adam E. M. , Depasse J. Mason , Yang JaeWon , Daniels Alan H.
Published: October 2017

Study Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Objectives:

Unplanned reoperation following lumbar spinal fusion is detrimental to patients, providers, and health systems. The aim of this study was to identify risk factors associated with unplanned reoperation following elective posterior lumbar spinal fusion and assess the reasons for reoperation.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis of 22 151 patients from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program data set between 2012 and 2015 was completed. The primary outcome measure was unplanned reoperation within 30 days. Secondary outcome measures were specific diagnoses and procedures associated with unplanned reoperation, as well as time to reoperation from initial procedure. Multiple stepwise logistic regression was employed to determine preoperative variables predictive of unplanned 30-day reoperation.

Results:

Patients with disseminated cancer (OR = 3.44, P = .0049), weight loss >10% in 6 months prior to surgery (OR = 3.26, P = .0276), bleeding disorders (OR = 1.92, P = .0049), American Society of Anesthesiologists score of 3 (OR = 1.46, P < .0001), body mass index of 35.0 to 39.9 (OR = 1.50, P = .0037), body mass index of ≥40 (OR = 1.83, P < .0001), and multilevel fusion (OR = 1.24, P = .0069) exhibited increased odds of 30-day reoperation. The most common diagnosis associated with reoperation was postoperative infection (n = 121, 21.1% of reoperations).

Conclusions:

Predictors and causes of unplanned reoperation within 30 days following elective posterior lumbar spinal fusion are identifiable. In this study cohort, obesity, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, disseminated cancer, weight loss, bleeding disorders, and multilevel fusion were identified as significant risk factors for reoperation. Further research investigating risk factor modification on reoperation in elective posterior lumbar spinal fusion is warranted.
Can a Clinical Examination Demonstrate Intramuscular Tendon Involvement in Acute Hamstring Injuries?
Authors: Crema Michel D. , Guermazi Ali , Reurink Gustaaf , Roemer Frank W. , Maas Mario , Weir Adam , Moen Maarten H. , Goudswaard Gert J. , Tol Johannes L.
Published: October 2017

Background:

Involvement of the intramuscular (central) tendon in acute hamstring injuries, as detected on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), may prolong recovery times. To date, it is unclear whether hamstring injuries exhibiting intramuscular tendon involvement can be identified though routine clinical examinations that assess flexibility and strength.

Purpose:

To test whether MRI-detected intramuscular tendon involvement could be identified by a clinical assessment of muscle strength and flexibility.

Study Design:

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Participants were drawn from a multicenter randomized controlled trial on the effect of platelet-rich plasma in acute hamstring injuries. Clinical parameters assessed within 5 days of injury were active knee extension and passive straight-leg raise for hamstring flexibility and isometric knee flexion force with 15° and 90° of knee flexion. Also, 1.5-T MRI of the thigh was performed within 5 days of injury and was evaluated for the presence of different types of intramuscular tendon involvement. One-way analysis of variance was used to determine whether clinical parameters could discriminate injuries with intramuscular tendon involvement from those without such involvement.

Results:

A total of 74 acute hamstring injuries were included, with 52 (70.3%) injuries affecting the myotendinous junction. Injuries exhibiting intramuscular tendon discontinuity on MRI had an increased mean absolute flexibility deficit for active knee extension (20.4° ± 14.9° vs 10.7° ± 9.0°, respectively; P = .006) and decreased mean strength at 15° (62.2 ± 26.7 N vs 76.6 ± 22.5 N, respectively; P = .05) compared with injuries without intramuscular tendon discontinuity. Flexibility and strength showed major overlap and variance among injuries with and without intramuscular tendon involvement.

Conclusion:

Hamstring flexibility and strength cannot be used to discriminate the presence of intramuscular tendon involvement.
Evaluating SME Policies and Programmes—Micro-level Datasets, Analytical Toolkits and Institutional Factors
Authors: Gramigna Giuseppe
Published: October 2017

Big Data changed the paradigm of how the private sector serves its clients. The adroit use of Program Administrative Data (PAD) collected as part of the normal delivery of government services, when linked to records in other datasets, can change the cost and empirical paradigm of how the government learns what works and what does not, and can serve as the foundation for evidence-based policymaking. The linking of individual records is best achieved when records are associated with a Unique Identifier. The use of these linked datasets require a robust data-sharing and data-use infrastructure of laws and technologies that include regulations and procedures on (1) Privacy that outline which data are collected, (2) Confidentiality that outline the allowable users and uses these data, and (3) Security, that outline the excluded users and uses of these data.

PAD is used for Performance Measurements to asses who was served, when they were served, how intensively they were served, and at what costs. These measurements, however, do not inform on the change in recipient behavior, or how the recipient behavior impacted a community or a region. Tracing and evaluating a program’s impacts on recipients or communities requires linking PAD to micro data found across government and possibly private entities. There are several challenges with this learning process. The most common among them is learning from insignificant, null or negative findings. Similar challenges arise when evaluating new programs that may not have been in existence long enough to gestate impacts, or for evaluating the impacts of small programs that may not have generated sufficient service-provision observations.
Proof of concept and feasibility studies examining the influence of combination ribose, adenine and allopurinol treatment on stroke outcome in the rat
Authors: Faller Kiterie M.E. , Leach Joshua , Johnston Pamela , Holmes William M. , Macrae I. Mhairi , Frenguelli Bruno G.
Published: October 2017

Background:

Cerebral ischaemia results in a rapid and profound depletion of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy currency of the cell. This depletion leads to disruption of cellular homeostasis and cell death. Early replenishment of ATP levels might therefore have a neuroprotective effect in the injured brain. We have previously shown that the ATP precursors, D-ribose and adenine (RibAde), restored the reduced ATP levels in rat brain slices to values similar to those measured in the intact rodent brain. The aim of this study was to assess whether RibAde, either alone or in combination with the xanthine oxidase inhibitor allopurinol (RibAdeAll; to further increase the availability of ATP precursors), could improve outcome in an in vivo rodent model of transient cerebral ischaemia.

Methods:

After 60 min occlusion of the middle cerebral artery, and upon reperfusion, rats were administered saline, RibAde, or RibAdeAll for 6 h. Baseline lesion volume was determined by diffusion-weighted MRI prior to reperfusion and final infarct volume determined by T2-weighted MRI at Day 7. Neurological function was assessed at Days 1, 3 and 7.

Results:

Ischaemic lesion volume decreased between Days 1 and 7: a 50% reduction was observed for the RibAdeAll group, 38% for the RibAde group and 18% in the animals that received saline. Reductions in lesion size in treatment groups were accompanied by a trend for faster functional recovery.

Conclusion:

These data support the potential use of ribose, adenine and allopurinol in the treatment of cerebral ischaemic injury, especially since all compounds have been used in man.
The claustrum: Considerations regarding its anatomy, functions and a programme for research
Authors: Dillingham Christopher M. , Jankowski Maciej M. , Chandra Ruchi , Frost Bethany E. , O’Mara Shane M.
Published: October 2017

The claustrum is a highly conserved but enigmatic structure, with connections to the entire cortical mantle, as well as to an extended and extensive range of heterogeneous subcortical structures. Indeed, the human claustrum is thought to have the highest number of connections per millimetre cubed of any other brain region. While there have been relatively few functional investigations of the claustrum, many theoretical suggestions have been put forward, including speculation that it plays a key role in the generation of consciousness in the mammalian brain. Other claims have been more circumspect, suggesting that the claustrum has a particular role in, for example, orchestrating cortical activity, spatial information processing or decision making. Here, we selectively review certain key recent anatomical, electrophysiological and behavioural experimental advances in claustral research and present evidence that calls for a reassessment of its anatomical boundaries in the rodent. We conclude with some open questions for future research.
The quality and implementation of local plans: An integrated evaluation
Authors: Rudolf Sophie C , Grădinaru Simona R
Published: October 2017

Local plans are key components of municipal planning and scholars have developed methodologies to evaluate them. However, the purpose and use of local plans may vary, making their evaluation challenging, especially in comparative studies. In this context, existing evaluation methodologies that target local plans do not always account for the purpose of plans when evaluating their quality. Moreover, it is still unclear whether high-quality plans are better implemented than plans of lower quality. In this paper, we propose an integrated evaluation approach that links plan quality to implementation. To assess plan quality, we developed a flexible framework that accounts for the fact that local plans may present different characteristics according to their purpose. The framework rests on the analysis of the communication- and action-oriented dimensions of plans, and a system of coordinates that enables the classification of plans into four types (i.e. visions, blueprints, communicative policy acts, and basic plans) according to the score on each dimension. Plan implementation, assessed as conformance and performance, is determined based on the perception of local planners. Our approach and framework are applied to a set of 37 Swiss local plans. The approach is presented in a transparent way and requires basic numeracy skills, making it accessible to scholars and planning practitioners. Findings may be used to guide municipalities towards enhancing the quality of plans and identify best practices.
Is mitochondrial dysfunction a driving mechanism linking COPD to nonsmall cell lung carcinoma?
Authors: Ng Kee Kwong Francois , Nicholson Andrew G. , Harrison Celeste L. , Hansbro Philip M. , Adcock Ian M. , Chung Kian Fan
Published: October 2017

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients are at increased risk of developing nonsmall cell lung carcinoma, irrespective of their smoking history. Although the mechanisms behind this observation are not clear, established drivers of carcinogenesis in COPD include oxidative stress and sustained chronic inflammation. Mitochondria are critical in these two processes and recent evidence links increased oxidative stress in COPD patients to mitochondrial damage. We therefore postulate that mitochondrial damage in COPD patients leads to increased oxidative stress and chronic inflammation, thereby increasing the risk of carcinogenesis.

The functional state of the mitochondrion is dependent on the balance between its biogenesis and degradation (mitophagy). Dysfunctional mitochondria are a source of oxidative stress and inflammasome activation. In COPD, there is impaired translocation of the ubiquitin-related degradation molecule Parkin following activation of the Pink1 mitophagy pathway, resulting in excessive dysfunctional mitochondria. We hypothesise that deranged pathways in mitochondrial biogenesis and mitophagy in COPD can account for the increased risk in carcinogenesis. To test this hypothesis, animal models exposed to cigarette smoke and developing emphysema and lung cancer should be developed. In the future, the use of mitochondria-based antioxidants should be studied as an adjunct with the aim of reducing the risk of COPD-associated cancer.
COPD in individuals with the PiMZ alpha-1 antitrypsin genotype
Authors: Al Ashry Haitham S. , Strange Charlie
Published: October 2017

Since the discovery of severe alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency as a genetic risk factor for emphysema, there has been ongoing debate over whether individuals with intermediate deficiency with one protease inhibitor Z allele (PiMZ, or MZ) are at some risk for emphysema. This is important, because MZ individuals comprise 2–5% of the general population. In this review we summarise the evidence about the risks of the MZ population to develop emphysema or asthma. We discuss the different study designs that have tried to answer this question. The risk of emphysema is more pronounced in case–control than in population-based studies, perhaps due to inadequate power. Carefully designed family studies show an increased risk of emphysema in MZ smokers. This is supported by the rapid decline in lung function of MZ individuals when compared to the general population after massive environmental exposures. The risk of asthma in MZ subjects is less studied, and more literature is needed before firm conclusions can be made. Augmentation therapy in MZ individuals is not supported by any objective studies. MZ smokers are at increased risk for emphysema that is more pronounced when other environmental challenges are present.
Personalised medicine in sleep respiratory disorders: focus on obstructive sleep apnoea diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Bonsignore Maria R. , Suarez Giron Monique C. , Marrone Oreste , Castrogiovanni Alessandra , Montserrat Josep M.
Published: October 2017

In all fields of medicine, major efforts are currently dedicated to improve the clinical, physiological and therapeutic understanding of disease, and obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is no exception. The personalised medicine approach is relevant for OSA, given its complex pathophysiology and variable clinical presentation, the interactions with comorbid conditions and its possible contribution to poor outcomes. Treatment with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is effective, but CPAP is poorly tolerated or not accepted in a considerable proportion of OSA patients. This review summarises the available studies on the physiological phenotypes of upper airway response to obstruction during sleep, and the clinical presentations of OSA (phenotypes and clusters) with a special focus on our changing attitudes towards approaches to treatment. Such major efforts are likely to change and expand treatment options for OSA beyond the most common current choices (i.e. CPAP, mandibular advancement devices, positional treatment, lifestyle changes or upper airway surgery). More importantly, treatment for OSA may become more effective, being tailored to each patient's need.
Lung segmentectomy: does it offer a real functional benefit over lobectomy?
Authors: Charloux Anne , Quoix Elisabeth
Published: October 2017

Anatomical segmentectomy has been developed to offer better pulmonary function preservation than lobectomy, in stage IA lung cancer. Despite the retrospective nature of most of the studies and the lack of randomised studies, a substantial body of literature today allows us to evaluate to what extent lung function decreases after segmentectomy and whether segmentectomy offers a real functional benefit over lobectomy. From the available series, it emerges that the mean decrease in forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) is low, ranging from −9% to −24% of the initial value within 2 months and −3 to −13% 12 months after segmentectomy. This reduction in lung function is significantly lower than that induced by lobectomy, but saves only a few per cent of pre-operative FEV1. Moreover, the published results do not firmly establish the functional benefit of segmentectomy over lobectomy in patients with poor lung function. Some issues remain to be addressed, including whether video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) segmentectomy may preserve lung function better than VATS lobectomy in patients with poor lung function, especially within the early days after surgery, and whether this may translate to lowering the functional limit for surgery. Eventually, trials comparing stereotactic ablative body radiotherapy, radiofrequency ablation and segmentectomy functional consequences are warranted.
Practices regarding human Papillomavirus counseling and vaccination in head and neck cancer: A Canadian physician questionnaire
Authors: Anderson Scott , Isaac Andre , Jeffery Caroline C. , Robinson Joan L. , Isaac Daniela Migliarese , Korownyk Christina , Biron Vincent L. , Seikaly Hadi
Published: October 2017

Background

Human papillomavirus (HPV) has recently been implicated as a causative agent in a rapidly growing number of oropharyngeal cancers. Emerging literature supports the hypothesis that HPV vaccination may protect against HPV-related head and neck cancer (HNC) in addition to HPV-related cervical and anogenital disease. While the association between HPV infection and cervical cancer is widely understood, its relation to HNC is less well known. The purpose of this study was to better understand HPV counseling practices for infection and vaccination in relation to HNC of primary care physicians (PCPs), Obstetricians/Gynecologists (OBGYNs), and Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgeons (OHNSs) in Canada.

Methods

A Canada-wide electronic questionnaire regarding counseling practices on HPV infection, transmission, and vaccination was designed and distributed to PCPs, OBGYNs, and OHNSs across Canada through electronic and paper-based methods. Basic Descriptive statistics were used to analyze responses.

Results

In total, 337 physicians responded (239 family physicians, 51 OHNSs, 30 OBGYNs, and 17 pediatricians). Three out of four PCPs reported routine counseling of their patients regarding HPV infection, transmission, and vaccination. Among this group, 68% reported “never” or “rarely” counseling patients that HPV can cause HNC. The most commonly reported reason that PCPs cited for not counseling was a lack of knowledge. The majority of OHNSs (81%) and OBGYNs (97%) counseled patients regarding HPV infection, transmission, and vaccination. However, very few OHNSs (10%) regularly counseled patients with HPV-related HNC about HPV-related anogenital cancer. Similarly, very few OBGYNs (18%) regularly counseled patients with HPV related cervical/anogenital cancer about HPV related HNC.

Conclusions

The rate of counseling on HPV infection, transmission, and vaccination in relation to HNC among PCPs is low. The most common reason is a lack of knowledge. Specialists rarely counsel patients with confirmed HPV-related cancer about other HPV-related malignancies. More research is needed on the relationship between different HPV-related cancers in order to better inform counseling practices.
A new Fourier azimuthal amplitude variation fracture characterization method: Case study in the Haynesville Shale
Authors: Barone Anthony , Sen Mrinal K.
Published: October 2017

We have evaluated a novel fracture characterization technique using azimuthal amplitude variations (AVAz) present in 3D seismic data, and we implemented it using synthetic and real seismic data targeting the Haynesville Shale. The method we evaluated overcomes many common AVAz limitations and differs from standard AVAz approaches in the following ways: (1) It was explicitly designed to model vertically fractured transverse isotropic (VFTI) media; (2) it can correctly resolve the fracture strike azimuth without a 90° ambiguity and uses a new magnitude-based method that is invariant to the sign of seismic reflectivity [Formula: see text]; and (3) it incorporates advanced inversion techniques to estimate a novel fracture density proxy that responds linearly to crack density. Our method is based on a newly derived relationship that relates seismic reflectivity directly to rock/fracture properties in VFTI media. We validated our method through rigorous testing on more than 400 synthetic seismic data sets. These synthetic tests indicate that our method excels at estimating fracture azimuth and fracture density from surface seismic data with overall success rates around 80%–85% for noisy data and 90%–95% for noise-free data. Applying our method to field data from the Haynesville Shale indicates that the dominant fracture set is oriented at approximately [Formula: see text] relative to geodetic north, i.e., rotated slightly counterclockwise of east–west. We assume a constant azimuth of 80° throughout our relatively small 20 square miles study area, and our method clearly identifies a general area with unusually high fracture density as well as several smaller subzones of dense fracturing. These smaller features appear to be connected by a pervasive large-scale fracture network covering the area with dominant features aligned at roughly parallel and perpendicular to our calculated fracture azimuth. Although we could not directly confirm these fracture characteristics, our results largely agree with previously published information about fracturing in our study area.
Fuzzy constrained Lp-norm inversion of direct current resistivity data
Authors: Singh Anand , Sharma Shashi Prakash , Akca İrfan , Baranwal Vikas Chand
Published: October 2017

We evaluate the use of a fuzzy c-means clustering procedure to improve an inverted 2D resistivity model within the iterative error minimization procedure. The algorithm is coded in MATLAB language for the Lp-norm inversion of 2D direct current resistivity data and is referred to as fuzzy constrained inversion (FCI). Two additional input parameters are required to be provided by the interpreter: (1) the number of geologic units in the model (i.e., the number of clusters) and (2) the mean resistivity values of each geologic unit (i.e., cluster center values of the geologic units). The efficacy of our approach is evaluated by tests carried on the synthetic and field electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) data. Inversion results from the FCI algorithm are presented for conventional L1- and L2-norm minimization techniques. FCI indicates improvement over conventional inversion approaches in differentiating the geologic units if a proper number of the geologic units is provided to the algorithm. Inappropriate clustering information will affect the resulting resistivity models, particularly conductive geologic units existing in the model. We also determine that FCI is only effective when the observed ERT data can recognize the particular geologic units.
Three-parameter Radon transform based on shifted hyperbolas
Authors: Gholami Ali , Zand Toktam
Published: October 2017

The focusing power of the conventional hyperbolic Radon transform decreases for long-offset seismic data due to the nonhyperbolic behavior of moveout curves at far offsets. Furthermore, conventional Radon transforms are ineffective for processing data sets containing events of different shapes. The shifted hyperbola is a flexible three-parameter (zero-offset traveltime, slowness, and focusing-depth) function, which is capable of generating linear and hyperbolic shapes and improves the accuracy of the seismic traveltime approximation at far offsets. Radon transform based on shifted hyperbolas thus improves the focus of seismic events in the transform domain. We have developed a new method for effective decomposition of seismic data by using such three-parameter Radon transform. A very fast algorithm is constructed for high-resolution calculations of the new Radon transform using the recently proposed generalized Fourier slice theorem (GFST). The GFST establishes an analytic expression between the [Formula: see text] coefficients of the data and the [Formula: see text] coefficients of its Radon transform, with which a very fast switching between the model and data spaces is possible by means of interpolation procedures and fast Fourier transforms. High performance of the new algorithm is demonstrated on synthetic and real data sets for trace interpolation and linear (ground roll) noise attenuation.
Accelerating full-waveform inversion with attenuation compensation
Authors: Xue Zhiguang , Sun Junzhe , Fomel Sergey , Zhu Tieyuan
Published: October 2017

The calculation of the gradient in full-waveform inversion (FWI) usually involves crosscorrelating the forward-propagated source wavefield and the back-propagated data residual wavefield at each time step. In the real earth, propagating waves are typically attenuated due to the viscoelasticity, which results in an attenuated gradient for FWI. Replacing the attenuated true gradient with a [Formula: see text]-compensated gradient can accelerate the convergence rate of the inversion process. We have used a phase-dispersion and an amplitude-loss decoupled constant-[Formula: see text] wave equation to formulate a viscoacoustic FWI. We used this wave equation to generate a [Formula: see text]-compensated gradient, which recovers amplitudes while preserving the correct kinematics. We construct an exact adjoint operator in a discretized form using the low-rank wave extrapolation technique, and we implement the gradient compensation by reversing the sign of the amplitude-loss term in the forward and adjoint operators. This leads to a [Formula: see text]-dependent gradient preconditioning method. Using numerical tests with synthetic data, we demonstrate that the proposed viscoacoustic FWI using a constant-[Formula: see text] wave equation is capable of producing high-quality velocity models, and our [Formula: see text]-compensated gradient accelerates its convergence rate.