bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pluralismo Jurídico e Justiça Comunitária na América Latina: Potencialidades a parir da Sociologia das Ausencias e das Emergencias
Authors: Da Silva Leal Jackson , Machado Fagundes Lucas
Published: September 2016

Trata-se de um estudo que busca identificar no contexto de pluralismo jurídico e no espaço geopolítico latino-americano manifestações de uma juridicidade emancipatória, produzida fora da concepção monista do direito tradicional, por sujeitos historicamente (so)negados em sua cultura popular. A análise se dá a partir da investigação sobre a manifestação de justiça comunitária no contexto de países andinos e uma justiça alternativa na territorialidade brasileira, em suas diversas modalidades e mecanismos, diante da inserção de uma teoria da sociologia das ausências e uma sociologia das emergências como paradigma jurídico para o Sul global a partir das idéias de Boaventura de Sousa Santos. Tal tarefa cumpre afirmar outras formas de justiça, diferenciada da tradição jurídica liberal de produção do direito atomizado em indivíduos isolados, voltando os olhares para as realidades periféricas latino-americanas, onde há inser-ção de uma nova racionalidade jurídica germinada com ímpeto emancipatório de alteridade. Consta da metodologia a análise bibliográfica; pesquisa documental indireta e um método procedimental comparativo e sociológico das experiências manifestadas em diferentes realidades do continente latino-americano se utilizando como marco teórico o Pluralismo Jurídico de tipo comunitário e participativo proposto por Antonio Carlos Wolkmer. Busca-se demonstrar como os resultados de manifestações diferenciadas ou alternativas de justiça produzidas para integração, identidade e pertinência social dos sujeitos envolvidos, podem apresentar um viés de direito crítico à epistemologia jurídica europeizada, atomizada, excludente e hegemônica/colonizadora.
El Proceso Judicial según Jorge Luis Borges
Authors: Orler José
Published: September 2016

Nuestro trabajo se dispara en la confluencia extravagante de un Borges ensayista y provocador con un Foucault provocador y ensayista, para derivar hacia una concepción del Proceso Judicial como relato, que aporta de modo instituyente a la construcción del discurso jurídico en nuestras sociedades de capitalismo desordenado —en categoría de Offe (1990, 2009)— con el fin explícito, de quien suscribe, de ensayar alguna línea crítica a ese objeto de estudio llamado Derecho.Proceso Judicial como confrontaciones discursivas que se acumulan y superponen construyendo una urdiembre de relatos intrincada y densa, no siempre pertinente y mayoritariamente superflua, que transita por los carriles de “lo verosímil” casi como una burla al “principio de verdad” que el sistema de justicia se arroga. Proceso Judicial como “discurso clandestino”, como discurso del orden. Discurso del poder, discurso del “como si”. O “definir un crimen como si fuera una mariposa y viceversa”.
Method of determining the optimal coordinate domain in the measurement of water flows turbulence using lad-56 in rectangular channels
Authors: Volgin Georgiy Valentinovich , Kulikov Dmitriy Viktorovich
Published: September 2016

One of the modern methods of the experimental investigation of water flows turbulence is the method of Laser Doppler Anemometry. At the present time a measuring system “LAD-056” (Russia) is operating in the laboratory of the Department of Hydraulics of MGSU. The authors conducted an analysis of the requirements to experimental data when calculating turbulent characteristics of water flows. The article shows the necessity of checking the database of ripple continuity over time and the required representation of the number of points in the implementation. The results of experiments are presented showing the importance of fixing the length of the implementation and testing time. The authors offered a method of determining the optimal spatial coordinates for the measurement to minimize the time of filling the base of experimental data. According to the methods of defining optimal coordinate domain when measuring turbulent water flows with the use of “LAD-056” in a rectangular channel with glass walls in was established that it is required to conduct measurements within the range from 0 to 120 mm from the closest side wall. In case of greater deepening it is required to use illuminators reducing deflections of laser beams.
Improving the efficiency of urban planning activity as a result of implementing working plans of build-up areas
Authors: Zhukhovitskiy Grigoriy Mikhaylovich , Karpov Aleksandr Aleksandrovich
Published: September 2016

In the process of state structure transformation in the Russian Federation in 1990-2010s the legal base was greatly changed. In the process of these changes the issues of topographic plans of the territories indented for building and inter-settlement territories were almost withdrawn from legal and normative-technical regulation. As a result the legal status of city geological services and the accumulated materials the same as the whole activity on topographic plans’ maintenance is now out of the unified legal and normative framework. At the same time old technologies of creating and updating topographic plans is now beneath criticism in terms of effectiveness and quality of the obtained results. The authors consider the problem of creating, updating and use of topographic plans of urban settlements. Brief historical background of the topic is given, the existing information technologies and suggestions on the changes in the regulatory framework of urban development activity are described.
Plastic deformation and fracture of masonry under biaxial stresses
Authors: Kabantsev Oleg Vasil’evich
Published: September 2016

Masonry is a complex multicomponent composite composed of dissimilar materials (brick / stone and mortar). The process of masonry deformation under load depends on the mechanical characteristics of the basic composite materials, as well as of the parameters belonging to the elements, which define the link between brick and mortar being the structural elements. The paper provides an analysis of the experimental study results of masonry behaviour in two-dimensional stress state at primary stresses of opposite signs; identifies the mechanisms of masonry failure that are in compliance with the conditions of stress state. The work shows the key role that structural elements play in the formation of masonry failure processes. On the basis of failure mechanisms educed from the experiments, there was developed a discrete model of masonry. The processes and the corresponding strength criteria, which play a key role in the implementation of plastic deformation phase, have been detected. It has been shown that the plastic deformation of masonry under biaxial stresses occurs in case of the physical linear behavior of the basic materials (brick and mortar). It has been also substantiated that the plastic properties of masonry under biaxial stresses are determined by the processes occurring at the contact interaction nodes between brick and mortar in bed and cross joints. The values of the plasticity coefficients for masonry depending on the mechanical properties of a brick, a mortar and adhesive strength in their interaction have been obtained basing on the results of the performed numerical investigations.
Application of laser scanning technology in different branches and on different stages of the lifecycle of objects
Authors: Alekseenko Nikolay Nikolaevich
Published: September 2016

At the present time settlement, land use and resources-use systems existing on most of the territory of Russia are still poorly estimated, they are poorly adapted to contemporary economic situation and the possibilities of their efficient use are not analyzed. The majority of archive and statistical information about the territories is out of date, because in had been collected and analyzed in the end of 1980s. Such information can’t be the basis for constructing a plan of prospective development. The article is dedicated to the currency and advantages of the use of innovative methods of laser scanning for solving the problems of spatial planning, design, reconstruction and construction. Some information on the world experience of using laser scanning is offered as an exemplification of flexibility and efficiency of their use in different branches of business activity. It is suggested to implement the methods of laser scanning for the tasks of the further creation of geographic information system on the territory of the Russian Federation containing current data information. The author also gives examples of the use and the advantages of laser scanning of Baikal-Amur Mainline and Trans-Siberian areas, laser scanning of the highway “High-speed network Moscow-Kazan”, highway M-4 Don.
Bubble formation in shear-thinning fluids: Laser image measurement and a novel correlation for detached volume
Authors: Fan Wenyuan , Yin Xiaohong
Published: September 2016

A laser image system has been established to quantify the characteristics of growing bubbles in quiescent shear-thinning fluids. Bubble formation mechanism was investigated by comparing the evolutions of bubble instantaneous shape, volume and surface area in two shear-thinning liquids with those in Newtonian liquid. The effects of solution mass concentration, gas chamber volume and orifice diameter on bubble detachment volume are discussed. By dimensional analysis, a single bubble volume detached within a moderate gas flowrate range was developed as a function of Reynolds number ,Re, Weber number, We, and gas chamber number, Vc, based on the orifice diameter. The results reveal that the generated bubble presents a slim shape due to the shear-thinning effect of the fluid. Bubble detachment volume increases with the solution mass concentration, gas chamber volume and orifice diameter. The results predicted by the present correlation agree better with the experimental data than the previous ones within the range of this paper.
Facing dengue fever - our first experience
Authors: Cvjetkovic Dejan , Mikic Sandra , Hrnjakovic-Cvjetkovic Ivana
Published: September 2016

Introduction. Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne disease caused by dengue virus, endemic in tropical and subtropical regions, where it is mostly imported from. The most common clinical form is classic dengue fever. We presented the first dengue case microbiologically confirmed in Serbia. Case report. A 34-year-old male got classic dengue fever after arrival from Cuba. The disease occurred suddenly with fever, myalgias, skin rash, hepatosplenomegaly, cytopenia, abnormal aminotransferase and creatine kinase levels. The diagnosis was confirmed with virological diagnostic methods. Significant leukopenia and thrombocytopenia as well as elevation of serum creatine kinase activity were recorded from the very beginning of hospitalization, but were gradually normalized. The whole duration of hospitalization was accompanied by laboratory signs of liver lesion. The disease had favourable outcome. At hospital discharge, the patient was afebrile, asymptomatic, with discrete erythematous rash on torso and arms, normal hemathological values and creatine kinase level and moderately elevated alanine-aminotransferase level. Conclusion. Considering global climate changes and growing international traffic, our health care service needs to be ready for possible massive outbreaks of dengue and other tropical infectious diseases in forthcoming years.
Complex modulation of fingertip forces during precision grasp and lift after theta burst stimulation over the dorsal premotor cortex
Authors: Drljacic Dragana , Pajic Sanja , Nedeljkovic Aleksandar , Milanovic Sladjan , Ilic Tihomir
Published: September 2016

Background/Aim. Adaptive control and fingertip force synchronization of precise grasp stability during unimanual manipulation of small objects represents an illustrative example of highly fractionated movements that are foundation of fine motor control. It is assumed that this process is controlled by several motor areas of the frontal lobe, particularly applicable to the primary motor (M-1) and dorsal premotor cortex (PMd). Aiming to examine the role of PMd during fine coordination of fingertip forces we applied theta burst repetitive magnetic stimulation (TBS) to disrupt neural processing in that cortical area. Methods. Using a single-blind, randomized, crossover design, 10 healthy subjects (29 ? 3.9 years) received single sessions of continuous TBS (cTBS600), intermittent TBS (iTBS600), or sham stimulation, separate from one another at least one week, over the PMd region of dominant hemisphere. Precision grasp and lift were assessed by instrumented device, recording grip (G) and load (L) forces, during three manipulation tasks (ramp-and-hold, oscillation force producing and simple lifting tasks), with each hand separately, before and after interventions. Results. We observed the improvement of task performance related to constant error (CE) in oscillation task with the dominant hand (DH) after the iTBS (p = 0.009). On the contrary, the cTBS reduced variable error (VE) for non-dominant hand (NH), p = 0.005. Considering force coordination we found that iTBS worsened variables for NH (G/L ratio, p = 0.017; cross-correlation of the G and L, p = 0.047; Gain, p = 0.047). Conclusion. These results demonstrate the ability of TBS to modulate fingertip forces during precision grasping and lifting, when applied over PMd. These findings support the role of PMd in human motor control and forces generation required to hold small objects stable in our hands.
Pathological lying and tasks of psychological assessment
Authors: Djuric-Jocic Dragana , Pavlicic Nevenka , Gazivoda Vesna
Published: September 2016

nema
History of development of inflammatory diseases of the nervous system - meningitis and encephalitis
Authors: Petrusevski Ana
Published: September 2016

nema
COSO 2013: Aligning Internal Controls and Principles
Authors: Dickins Denise , Fay Rebecca G.
Published: September 2016

Strong systems of internal control over financial reporting (ICFR) are critical to the production of reliable financial statements. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regulations require that companies design, maintain, and regularly evaluate their systems of ICFR, and Auditing Standard No. 5 requires that auditors evaluate companies' systems of ICFR. Therefore, it is necessary for accountants to be able to (1) describe and classify internal controls and (2) determine deficiencies in internal control. Recent reports suggest that accountants may lack sufficient training and guidance in these respects (e.g., Rapoport 2012). This activity provides an opportunity for students to practice these skills while learning more about the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission's (COSO) 2013 Framework.

Provided are a summary discussion of ICFR and the COSO 2013 Framework, an outside-of-class reading assignment, and an activity that requires students (independently or in groups, either in or outside of class) to employ critical-thinking skills to: (1) classify (i.e., map) a listing of controls as being aligned with one (or more) of the COSO 2013 Framework's five components and 17 principles that comprise a well-designed system of internal control, and (2) identify any deficiencies (gaps) in design due to missing or inadequate internal controls.
Pathway to Reform: Developing Action Research Capacity in Accounting Education
Authors: Curtis Susan M.
Published: September 2016

Outside of accounting education, action research is widely considered crucial for supporting broad reforms. Action research integrates theory with action to solve problems, improve practices, and address issues together with those who experience them. Yet the body of action research in accounting education remains very small. Historically, efforts to reform accounting education have led to pockets of innovation but have not systematically addressed impediments that inhibit widespread continuous improvement. Lack of available formal training inhibits development of the action research capacity needed to support broad reform in accounting education. This paper provides a conceptual action research framework that includes two ontologies to classify different types of action research. One type, emancipated action research, involves taking strategic action to change or eliminate structural impediments that limit improvement achievable through other types, often earlier phases, of action research. The paper reports an action research project that involved two strategic actions, investigation of an action research reflection practice and use of an educative case to report the project. The case illustrates how action research can support reform in accounting education and demonstrates a generalizable approach accounting educators and education researchers can use to develop action research capacity.
St George Hospital: Flexible Budgeting, Volume Variance, and Balanced Scorecard Performance Measurement
Authors: Vesty Gillian , Brooks Albie
Published: September 2016

This case deals with funding, budgeting, and performance measurement in public hospitals. Data from the Orthopedic Unit at St George Hospital is used to examine efficiency and effectiveness of management in meeting budgeted targets. The Orthopedic Unit provides treatment for two common diagnosis-related group (DRG) treatments: hip replacement surgery, commonly performed on older patients with arthritic pain or hip fractures; and arthroscopy surgery for soft tissue knee injuries, commonly a result of sporting injuries in the younger population. As a business consultant, you will help Vera Jones, a newly graduated accountant, to develop a flexible budget, and calculate price, cost, and patient volume variances. You will then review the results in conjunction with St George Hospital's balanced scorecard to determine the quality of public sector service delivery and the ability to meet patient demands within the bounds of budgetary constraints.
Soil Physico-Bio-Chemical Properties under Poplar + Indian Mustard Inter Cropping System
Authors: Ghimire Tara Bahadur , Bana Om Prakash Singh
Published: September 2016

A field experiment was conducted during the winter seasons of 2008-10 at Agroforestry Research Centre, Pantnagar, India with aim to examine the effect of different levels of recommended Nitrogen (N): Phosphorus (P): Potassium (K) (NPK) on soil physico-bio-chemical properties under varying poplar tree densities with mustard introcropping. Lower soil bulk density was recorded under 1000 trees/ha density compared to sole crop in both the year. Soil bulk density (BD) decreased underneath trees. However, soil pH, available N and K were not influenced by tree density in both the years. Electrical conductivity (EC) and soil organic carbon (SOC) increased underneath trees of either tree density compared to sole crop in both the years. Significantly (P<0.05) higher available P was recorded under 1000 trees/ha density compared to 250 and 500 trees/ha densities including sole crop in 2008-09. Similarly, soil microbial biomass carbon (SMBC) increased with increasing the tree density and significantly (P<0.01) higher value was recorded under 1000 trees/ha density compared to sole crop and sparse density both the years except 2009-10, where 500 and 1000 trees/ha densities remain statistically at par. On the other hand, dehydrogenase activity (DA) was maximum under 500 trees/ha density compared to sole crop and 1000 trees/ha density in both the years. Among the fertility levels, the maximum SOC and available N were recorded with 75% compared to 50, 100 and 125% of recommended NPK in 2008-09, except available N with 100% of recommended NPK. But, available P was more with 100% of recommended NPK in 2008-09. Similarly, maximum SMBC were recorded with 75 % compared to higher doses of recommended NPK in both the years. Similarly, BD, EC, SOC, available N, P and K were recorded maximum and soil pH minimum in 0-15 cm soil layers compared deeper layers.Journal of Nepal Agricultural Research Council Vol.1 2015 pp.14-20
Wheat Yield Trend and Soil Fertility Status in Long Term Rice-Rice-Wheat Cropping System
Authors: Rawal Nabin , Chalise Devraj , Tripathi Janmejai , Khadka Dinesh , Thapa Khim
Published: September 2016

A long-term soil fertility experiment under rice-rice-wheat system was performed to evaluate the long term effects of inorganic fertilizer and manure applications on soil properties and grain yield of wheat. The experiment began since 1978 was laid out in randomized complete block design with 9 treatments replicated 3 times. From 1990 onwards, periodic modifications have been made in all the treatments splitting the plots in two equal halves of 4 x 3 m2 leaving one half as original. In the original treatments, recent data revealed that the use of Farm Yard Manure (FYM) @10 t ha-1 gave significantly (P≤0.05) higher yield of 2.3 t ha-1 in wheat, whereas control plot gave the lowest grain yield of 277 kg ha-1. Similarly, in the modified treatments, the use of FYM @10 t ha-1 along with inorganic Nitrogen (N) and Potassium oxide (K2O) @ 50 kg ha-1 produced significantly (P≤0.05) the highest yield of 2.4 t/ha in wheat. The control plot with an indigenous nutrient supply only produced wheat yield of 277 kg ha-1 after 35th year completion of rice-rice-wheat system. A sharp decline in wheat yields was noted in minus N, phosphorus (P), Potassium (K) treatments during recent years. Yields were consistently higher in the N:P2O5:K2O and FYM treatments than in treatments, where one or more nutrients were lacking. The application of P2O5 and K2O caused a partial recovery of yield in P and K deficient plots. There was significant (P≤0.05) effect of use of chemical fertilizers and manure on soil properties. The soil analysis data showed an improvement in soil pH (7.8), soil organic matter (4.1%), total N content (0.16%), available P (503.5 kg P2O5 ha-1) and exchangeable K (137.5 kg K2O ha-1) in FYM applied treatments over all other treatments. The findings showed that the productivity of the wheat can be increased and sustained by improving nutrient through the integrated use of organic and inorganic manures in long term.Journal of Nepal Agricultural Research Council Vol.1 2015 pp.21-28
Capturing the Imagination: Arts-Informed Inquiry as a Method in Program Evaluation
Authors: Searle Michelle J. , Shulha Lyn M.
Published: September 2016

Abstract: Qualitative approaches in evaluation continue to expand, and this article focuses on the potential for the Arts to contribute to innovation in evaluation. Arts-informed inquiry is an approach that works within, augments, and extends traditional forms of qualitative approaches. This study documents an educational program evaluation that intentionally plans for, uses, and reflects upon arts-informed inquiry. Three considerations found central to arts-informed inquiry are presented: (a) working with layers of context, (b) enhancing access and engagement, and (c) supporting differentiated communication. Arts-informed inquiry emerged as a purposeful methodology that enhances the processes and forms of representation within the field of evaluation.
Professional Standards for Evaluators: The Development of an Action Plan for the Canadian Evaluation Society
Authors: Halpern Gerald , Gauthier Benoît , McDavid James C.
Published: September 2016

Abstract: The National Council of the Canadian Evaluation Society (CES) recognized a need to designate a professional status for the practice of evaluation for individuals who meet appropriate criteria. A consortium of experienced CES members developed an Action Plan with policy options based on (a) a literature review, (b) consultations with relevant professional organizations, (c) knowledge and experience brought by consortium members, and (d) the 2005 Survey of Evaluation Practice and Issues in Canada. The Action Plan recommended three successive levels of professional designation, each with progressively more demanding criteria. Out of this plan, the CES adopted the Credentialed Evaluator designation.
A Made-in-Canada Credential: Developing an Evaluation Professional Designation
Authors: Buchanan Heather
Published: September 2016

Abstract: Following extensive research and consultations, the governing body of the Canadian Evaluation Society (CES) announced in October 2007 “that there is member support to pursue a system of professional designations for evaluators in Canada.” Some 19 months later it introduced a new voluntary service for its members, a Credentialed Evaluator (CE) designation. From an acknowledged bias of one of the CE architects, this article reflects on its development, what it is, and how context and process importantly shaped this unique evaluation professional designation. Discussions of the challenges encountered in the development process and the opportunities going forward aim to contribute to the future of the CE designation in Canada and to the growing international interest in and discourse on professionalizing evaluation.
Toward an Evaluation Framework for Community-Based FASD Prevention Programs
Authors: Hubberstey Carol , Rutman Deborah , Hume Sharon , Bibber Marilyn Van , Poole Nancy
Published: September 2016

Abstract: This article discusses creation of common evaluation frameworks for FASD-related programs. The project was guided by a social determinants of health perspective and included a literature search and consultations across Canada to help refine and confirm the final product. The end result was development of three visual maps: FASD prevention programs, FASD support programs, and FASD programs in Aboriginal communities. Each map comprises concentric rings showing theoretical foundations; activities and approaches; and formative (program), participant, and community/systemic outcomes. The project website provides tools and indicators. The visual maps have wide-ranging applications that go beyond evaluation of FASD programs.
Particle Swarm Optimisation algorithm for multi-agent system with dynamic ray (PSORM)
Authors: Hernane Yasmina , Hernane Soumeya Leila , Benyettou Mohamed
Published: September 2016

This paper deals with the issue of reaching a target within an unknown search space. The target could be a human being, a bomb or any other object and the research space is composed of virtual robots, commonly known as agents that are continuously evolving together with the same purpose.

To that aim, we use the bio-inspired Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) method that we extend to the Particle Swarm Optimization with dynamic ray (PSORM) algorithm.

The neighborhood is dynamically adjusted during the research process according to the value of fitness, which helps significantly to escape from local optimums. Despite the same variations we have made in some initial values such as population size and ray intensity, PSORM converges earlier. Our approach has the advantage to be completely distributed and of low-resources consumption.
Biometric verification by palmprint using contourlet transform
Authors: Sajedi Hedieh
Published: September 2016

Palmprint is a reliable biometric that can be used for identity verification because it is stable and unique for every individual. Palmprint images contain rich, unique features for reliable human identification, which makes it a very competitive topic in biometric research. In this paper, a personal authentication method is proposed which is based on palmprint images and employs contourlet transform for feature extraction process. Contourlet transform extracts image curvatures and smoothness with multidirectional decomposition capability. The proposed method includes three steps, preprocessing, feature extraction, and classification. The central part of each palmprint is determined in preprocessing step. For feature extracting, contourlet transform is applied to the central part of palmprint and then features are extracted from created subbands. Finally, for each image, 384 features are obtained. A last, Naïve Bayes, Support Vector Machine (SVM) and k-Nearest Neighbor (kNN) classifiers are employed. Experiments on three databases resulted recognition accuracies of 99.41%, 92.38%, and 85.34% on PolyU, COEP and IITD databases, correspondingly using kNN classifier. The results demonstrate the efficiency and validity of the proposed method in personal authentication by palmprint images.
Oxidative Stress and Huntington’s Disease: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
Authors: Kumar Amit , Ratan Rajiv R.
Published: September 2016

Redox homeostasis is crucial for proper cellular functions, including receptor tyrosine kinase signaling, protein folding, and xenobiotic detoxification. Under basal conditions, there is a balance between oxidants and antioxidants. This balance facilitates the ability of oxidants, such as reactive oxygen species, to play critical regulatory functions through a direct modification of a small number of amino acids (e.g. cysteine) on signaling proteins. These signaling functions leverage tight spatial, amplitude, and temporal control of oxidant concentrations. However, when oxidants overwhelm the antioxidant capacity, they lead to a harmful condition of oxidative stress. Oxidative stress has long been held to be one of the key players in disease progression for Huntington’s disease (HD). In this review, we will critically review this evidence, drawing some intermediate conclusions, and ultimately provide a framework for thinking about the role of oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of HD.
Similar Progression of Morphological and Metabolic Phenotype in R6/2 Mice with Different CAG Repeats Revealed by In Vivo Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Spectroscopy
Authors: Sawiak Stephen J. , Wood Nigel I. , Morton A. Jennifer
Published: September 2016

Background: Huntington’s disease (HD) is caused by an unstable polyglutamine (CAG) repeat in the HD gene, whereby a CAG repeat length greater than ∼36 leads to the disease. In HD patients, longer repeats correlate with more severe disease and earlier death. This is also seen in R6/2 mice carrying repeat lengths up to ∼200. Paradoxically, R6/2 mice with repeat lengths >300 have a less aggressive phenotype and longer lifespan than those with shorter repeats. The mechanism underlying this phenomenon is unknown.

Objective: To investigate the consequences of longer repeat lengths on structural changes in the brains of R6/2 mice, especially with regard to progressive atrophy.

Methods: We used longitudinal in vivo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and spectroscopy (MRS) to compare pathological changes in two strains of R6/2 mice, one with a rapidly progressing disease (250 CAG repeats), and the other with a less aggressive phenotype (350 CAG repeats).

Results: We found significant progressive brain atrophy in both 250 and 350 CAG repeat mice, as well as changes in metabolites (glutamine/glutamate, choline and aspartate). Although similar in magnitude, atrophy in the brains of 350 CAG R6/2 mice progressed more slowly than that seen in 250 CAG mice, in line with the milder phenotype and longer lifespan. Interestingly, significant atrophy was detectable in 350 CAG mice as early as 8–12 weeks of age, although behavioural abnormalities in these mice are not apparent before 25–30 weeks. This finding fits well with human data from the PREDICT-HD and TRACK-HD project, where reductions in brain volume were found 10 years in advance of the onset of symptoms.

Conclusions: The similar brain atrophy with a mismatch between onset of brain atrophy and behavioural phenotype in HD mice with 350 repeats will make this mouse particularly useful for modelling early stages of HD pathology.
Articulation Features of Parkinson’s Disease Patients with Subthalamic Nucleus Deep Brain Stimulation
Authors: Tanaka Yasuhiro , Tsuboi Takashi , Watanabe Hirohisa , Kajita Yasukazu , Nakatsubo Daisuke , Fujimoto Yasushi , Ohdake Reiko , Ito Mizuki , Atsuta Naoki , Yamamoto Masahiko , Wakabayashi Toshihiko , Katsuno Masahisa , Sobue Gen
Published: September 2016

Background: Voice and speech disorders are one of the most important issues after subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation (STN-DBS) in Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients. However, articulation features in this patient population remain unclear.

Objective: We studied the articulation features of PD patients with STN-DBS.

Methods: Participants were 56 PD patients treated with STN-DBS (STN-DBS group) and 41 patients treated only with medical therapy (medical-therapy-alone group). Articulation function was evaluated with acoustic and auditory-perceptual analyses. The vowel space area (VSA) was calculated using the formant frequency data of three vowels (/a/, /i/, and /u/) from sustained phonation task. The VSA reportedly reflects the distance of mouth/jaw and tongue movements during speech and phonation. Correlations between acoustic and auditory-perceptual measurements were also assessed.

Results: The VSA did not significantly differ between the medical-therapy-alone group and the STN-DBS group in the off-stimulation condition. In the STN-DBS group, the VSA was larger in the on-stimulation condition than in the off-stimulation condition. However, individual analysis showed the VSA changes after stopping stimulation were heterogeneous. In total, 89.8% of the STN-DBS group showed a large VSA size in the on- than in the off-stimulation condition. In contrast, the VSA of the remaining patients in that group was smaller in the on- than the off-stimulation condition.

Conclusions: STN-DBS may resolve hypokinesia of the articulation structures, including the mouth/jaw and tongue, and improve maximal vowel articulation. However, in the on-stimulation condition, the VSA was not significantly correlated with speech intelligibility. This may be because STN-DBS potentially affects other speech processes such as voice and/or respiratory process.
Acute Hospital Admissions of Individuals with a Known Parkinson’s Disease Diagnosis in Ireland 2009–2012: A Short Report
Authors: Kelly Bróna , Blake Catherine , Lennon Olive
Published: September 2016

Background: The rate of people with Parkinson’s disease (PD) is predicted to double by 2030 resulting in an even greater burden to an already struggling Irish health care system. There is a paucity of information regarding hospital utilisation among the PD population in an Irish context.

Objective: To examine trends of acute hospital in-patient admissions of patients admitted with a secondary diagnosis of PD between 2009 and 2012 in Ireland.

Method: Data concerning patients, aged over and under 65 years with a previously existing diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease were requested from the HIPE database for the years 2009–2012. Primary categories of interest were the top 10 principal diagnoses on admission, the top 10 principal procedures conducted, admission source and route, and final discharge destination.

Results: 12,437 discharges were recorded for people with PD over the age of 65 years and 1,223 in those under 65 years in Republic of Ireland between 2009 and 2012. A steady rise in acute hospital admissions was noted in the over 65 group. The number of patients requiring long stay accommodation more than doubled across both age categories from admission to discharge status. The most common reasons for admission in all age ranges were acute lower respiratory infection; disorders of urinary system; pneumonia (organism unspecified); and pneumonitis due to solids and liquids (aspiration pneumonia).

Conclusions: This report highlights a worrying trend towards increased rates of hospital admissions for pneumonia and infections for people living with PD in Republic of Ireland.
Prevalence and Prescribed Treatments of Orthostatic Hypotension in Institutionalized Patients with Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Hommel ALAJ , Faber MJ , Weerkamp NJ , van Dijk JG , Bloem BR , Koopmans RT
Published: September 2016

Background: Orthostatic hypotension (OH) in Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a common non-motor sign that can be hard to recognize and treat. OH prevalence and treatment in institutionalized PD-patients remains unknown.

Objective: The aim of this study was to explore the prevalence and prescribed treatments of OH in institutionalized patients with PD.

Method: A cross-sectional study of nursing homes in the south-east of the Netherlands identified 64 residents with PD (inclusion criteria: MMSE >18). Assessments included blood pressure measurement, both supine and in the upright position (after 1 minute and after 3 minutes of standing), and 2 questions on cardiovascular items including falls of the validated Non-Motor Symptom Scale (NMSS). OH was defined according to the consensus guidelines. OH was considered as ‘probably symptomatic’ if patients had a concomitant frequency score >1 on the selected NMSS items, and ‘probably asymptomatic’ for a frequency score of 0. If OH was not present, but patients had a frequency score >1, OH was considered as ‘possibly symptomatic’.

Results: The prevalence of OH was 51.6%, almost equally divided into probably symptomatic and probably asymptomatic cases. Another 20.6% had possibly symptomatic OH. Importantly, only two patients with symptomatic OH had an OH diagnosis noted in their medical records. Five received domperidone, one received fludrocortison and none received midodrine.

Conclusion: One half of institutionalized PD patients had OH, of whom half were probably symptomatic. OH was rarely noted in the medical records, suggesting underdiagnosis. Finally, OH was rarely treated, suggesting undertreatment.
Personalized Medicine Approaches in Parkinson’s Disease: The Genetic Perspective
Authors: Gasser Thomas
Published: September 2016

Recent discoveries with respect to the genetic and molecular basis of Parkinson’s disease have led to an increasing recognition of the etiologic heterogeneity of the disorder. As in other complex diseases, it is hoped that this knowledge will allow the identification of novel therapeutic targets that will eventually lead to a more efficient treatment, based on the patient’s individual genetic predispositions.
Evaluating the Efficacy of Nocturnal Continuous Subcutaneous Apomorphine Infusion in Sleep Disorders in Advanced Parkinson’s Disease: The APO-NIGHT Study
Authors: Fernández-Pajarín Gustavo , Sesar Ángel , Ares Begoña , Castro Alfonso
Published: September 2016

Background: There are not many data about the beneficial effect of nocturnal continuous subcutaneous apomorphine infusion (NCSAI) over sleep disturbances in advanced Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Objective: Evaluate the effect of the NCSAI in sleeping problems and insomnia due to nocturnal hypokinesia inadvanced PD.

Methods: We assessed 17 advanced PD patients with several sleep disturbances measured by SCOPA-SLEEP and PDSS scales. All the patients were on apomorphine infusion during daytime. This therapy was extended to nighttime. We evaluated the patients before the onset and after six weeks with NCSAI.

Results: NCSAI allowed highly significant improvements in SCOPA-SLEEP and PDSS scales ( p<0.0001), and daytime somnolence. NCSAI was well tolerated with no major adverse effects were noticed.

Conclusion: This study shows and confirms the efficacy of NCSAI on the sleep disturbances related to advanced PD. We provide an easy protocol to start this therapy.
Subjective Perceived Motor Improvement after Acute Levodopa Challenge in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Rabel Constance , Le Goff Floriane , Lefaucheur Romain , Ozel Gulden , Fetter Damien , Rouillé Audrey , Maltête David
Published: September 2016

Background: Previous studies found a poor association between parkinsonian patient’s reported subjective improvement after commencing dopaminergic treatment and improvements in objective measures of motor impairment by clinician.

Objective: To compare PD patient’s subjective perceived motor improvement after acute levodopa challenge test with objective motor improvement assessed by the clinician using the UPDRS part III. To analyze clinical characteristics, i.e. age, disease duration, cognitive performance or severity of axial features, that may have influenced patient’s perception.

Methods: Fifty-seven consecutive PD patients (23 women, 34 men; mean age, 63.4±7.7 years) (Hoehn and Yahr off score, 2.5±0.7; mean disease duration, 11.4±4.1 years) completed the acute levodopa challenge. The percentage of improvement in motor disability, i.e. objective motor improvement, was determined with respect to the off-drug condition.

Results: Bland & Altman visual analysis reveals a high degree of correlation between objective and subjective perceived motor improvement. Both the axial sub-scores in the off- and on-state (respectively, P = 0.006 and P = 0.024) and the presence of peak-dose dyskinesia ( P = 0.043) significantly influence the difference between objective and subjective perceived motor improvement.

Conclusions: This is the first study reporting on how PD patients assessed their motor improvement after acute levodopa challenge. These findings suggest a strong correlation between objective motor improvement assessed by the clinician using the UPDRS part III and subjective perceived motor improvement reported by the patient.
Muscarinic M1 Receptor Coupling to G-protein is Intact in Parkinson’s Disease Dementia
Authors: Lee Jasinda H. , Francis Paul T. , Ballard Clive G. , Aarsland Dag , Kalaria Raj N. , Wong Peter T.-H. , Chen Christopher P. , Lai Mitchell K.P.
Published: September 2016

Background: Postsynaptic cholinergic deficits, including reduced cortical muscarinic M1 receptor coupling to G-proteins, are neurochemical findings postulated to underlie the limited efficacy of presynaptically-targeted cholinergic replacement therapies in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). While the loss of M1-G-protein coupling has been associated with β-amyloid (Aβ) burden in AD, the status of M1 coupling to G-proteins in Parkinson’s disease-related or mixed dementias is unclear.

Objective: To test the hypothesis that M1 receptor uncoupling is correlated with Aβ burden, we aimed to study muscarinic M1 neurochemical parameters in neurodegenerative dementias characterized by low and high Aβ loads.

Methods: M1 receptors, M1 coupling to G-proteins as well as Aβ were measured in postmortem frontal cortex of a cohort of longitudinally assessed patients with Parkinson’s Disease Dementia (PDD, low Aβ load) and AD with significant subcortical cerebrovascular disease (AD + CVD, high Aβ load).

Results: We found unchanged levels of M1 receptors in both dementia groups, while M1 coupling was reduced only in AD + CVD ( p < 0.01). Furthermore, Aβ concentration was significantly increased only in AD + CVD, and correlated negatively with M1-G-protein coupling in the dementia groups.

Conclusions: Our study suggests that loss of M1 coupling to G-proteins may be a neurochemical feature of neurodegenerative dementias with high cortical Aβ burden, and that cholinergic replacement therapies may be more efficacious for PDD due to low Aβ burden.
Targeting glucose metabolism for healthy aging
Authors: Brewer Rachel A. , Gibbs Victoria K. , Smith Daniel L.
Published: September 2016

Advancing age is the greatest single risk factor for numerous chronic diseases. Thus, the ability to target the aging process can facilitate improved healthspan and potentially lifespan. Lack of adequate glucoregulatory control remains a recurrent theme accompanying aging and chronic disease, while numerous longevity interventions result in maintenance of glucoregulatory control. In this review, we propose targeting glucose metabolism to enhance regulatory control as a means to ameliorate the aging process. We highlight that calorie restriction improves glucoregulatory control and extends both lifespan and healthspan in model organisms, but we also indicate more practical interventions (i.e., calorie restriction mimetics) are desirable for clinical application in humans. Of the calorie restriction mimetics being investigated, we focus on the type 2 diabetes drug acarbose, an α-glucosidase inhibitor that when taken with a meal, results in reduced enzymatic degradation and absorption of glucose from complex carbohydrates. We discuss alternatives to acarbose that yield similar physiologic effects and describe dietary sources (e.g., sweet potatoes, legumes, and berries) of bioactive compounds with α-glucosidase inhibitory activity. We indicate future research should include exploration of how non-caloric compounds like α-glucosidase inhibitors modify macronutrient metabolism prior to disease onset, which may guide nutritional/lifestyle interventions to support health and reduce age-related disease risk.
Flipping a Switch “Down” When Not Aligned with the Gravitational Vertical
Authors: Bock Otmar , Bury Nils
Published: September 2016

INTRODUCTION: To flip a switch “down,” our motor system can normally rely on concordant visual, gravitational, and egocentric cues about the vertical. However, divers must sometimes perform this task while visual cues are limited and gravitational cues are misaligned
with egocentric cues. Astronauts must also flip switches “down” in absence of gravitational cues. Our study evaluates this ability using a laboratory simulation.METHODS: The subjects were 24 healthy volunteers who were blindfolded, tilted into different angles of roll,
and asked to silence an alarm by flipping a switch “down.” The switch was constructed such that it could be flipped in any direction in the subjects’ frontal plane.RESULTS: Two subjects deflected the switch in accordance with the direction of gravity, irrespective
of their body orientation. Twenty subjects deflected it in accordance with their body orientation, irrespective of the direction of gravity. The remaining two persons could not be classified unequivocally. Notably, some egocentric responders deflected the rod consistently toward their feet,
but others deflected it consistently toward other parts of their body.DISCUSSION: Since our findings disagree with perceptual studies where gravitational rather than egocentric cues predominated in the absence of vision, we posit that perception and action may access distinct internal
representations of the vertical. On the practical side, our findings indicate that designers of spaceflight and underwater equipment should not rely on divers’ intuitive knowledge on how to flip a switch “down.”Bock O, Bury N. Flipping a switch “down” when
not aligned with the gravitational vertical. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2016; 87(10):838–843.
Lipid Subhyaloid Maculopathy and Exposure to High Altitude
Authors: Petrocinio Roberta Rosas , Gomes Elga Dias
Published: September 2016

BACKGROUND: High altitude retinopathy (HAR) includes a number of diseases related to high altitude such as acute mountain sickness (AMS), high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) and high altitude cerebral edema (HACE). High altitude retinopathy is mainly characterized by retinal
hemorrhages, usually sparing the macular region, a condition specifically known as high altitude retinal hemorrhages (HARH). The pathogenesis of HARH is unclear. Many studies show that lack of oxygen causes an inadequate autoregulation of retinal circulation, causing vascular incompetence.
Other retinal changes described in HAR have been reported, such as optical disk edema, optic disc hyperemia, cotton wool exudates, venous occlusions, and macular edema.CASE REPORT: In this paper we present a case of an aviator who developed a unilateral maculopathy through subhyaloid
lipid accumulation on a climb to the top of Mt. Everest. The clinical findings are suggestive of an apparent case of temporary altitude-induced visual disruption maybe by the same presumable pathogenesis of HARH. Right eye visual loss was perceived at 5150 m when he was trying to take a photograph
40 d into the expedition.DISCUSSION: The maculopathy developed by this patient adds to the discussion on the pathogenesis of HARH, especially the aspect of this maculopathy and its complete resolution. It seems that autoregulation failure could lead to exudation and lipid deposits
in the foveal area. Although macular damage is not a common signal in HARH, checking visual acuity during high altitude expeditions remains an important procedure to avoid late diagnosis as unilateral blindness may not be detected early.Rosas Petrocinio R, Gomes ED. Lipid subhyaloid
maculopathy and exposure to high altitude. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2016; 87(10):898–900.