bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Moving beyond the cost-loss ratio: Economic assessment of
streamflow forecasts for a risk-averse decision maker
Authors: Matte Simon , Boucher Marie-Amélie , Boucher Vincent , Fortier Filion Thomas-Charles
Published: September 2016

Abstract. A large effort has been made over the past 10 years to promote the operational use of probabilistic or ensemble streamflow forecasts. Numerous studies have shown that ensemble forecasts are of higher quality than deterministic ones. Many studies also conclude that decisions based on ensemble rather than deterministic forecasts lead to better decisions in the context of flood mitigation. Hence, it is believed that ensemble forecasts possess a greater economic and social value for both decision makers and the general population. However, the vast majority, if not all, of existing hydro-economic studies rely on a cost-loss ratio framework that assumes a risk-neutral decision maker. To overcome this important flaw, this study borrows from economics and evaluates the economic value of early warning flood systems using the well-known CARA utility function, which explicitly accounts for the level of risk aversion of the decision maker. This new framework allows for the full exploitation of the information related to a forecasts' uncertainty, making it especially suited for the economic assessment of ensemble or probabilistic forecasts. Rather than comparing deterministic and ensemble forecasts, this study focuses rather on comparing different types of ensemble forecasts. There are multiple ways of assessing and representing forecast uncertainty. Consequently, there exists many different means of building an ensemble forecasting system for future streamflow. One such possibility is to dress deterministic forecasts using the statistics of past error forecasts. Such dressing methods are popular among operational agencies because of their simplicity and intuitiveness. Another approach is the use of ensemble meteorological forecasts for precipitation and temperature, which are then provided as inputs to one or many hydrological model(s). In this study, three concurrent ensemble streamflow forecasting systems are compared: simple statistically dressed deterministic forecasts, forecasts based on meteorological ensembles and a variant of the latter that also includes an estimation of variable uncertainty. This comparison takes place for the Montmorency River, a small flood-prone watershed in south central Quebec, Canada. The assessment of forecasts is performed for lead times of one to five days, both in terms of forecasts' quality (relative to the corresponding record of observations) and in terms of economic value, using the new proposed framework based on the CARA utility function. It is found that the economic value of a forecast for a risk-averse decision maker is closely linked to the forecast reliability in predicting the upper tail of the streamflow distribution.
Modeling the spatiotemporal variability in subsurface thermal regimes across a low-relief polygonal tundra landscape
Authors: Kumar Jitendra , Collier Nathan , Bisht Gautam , Mills Richard T. , Thornton Peter E. , Iversen Colleen M. , Romanovsky Vladimir
Published: September 2016

Abstract. Vast carbon stocks stored in permafrost soils of Arctic tundra are under risk of release to the atmosphere under warming climate scenarios. Ice-wedge polygons in the low-gradient polygonal tundra create a complex mosaic of microtopographic features. This microtopography plays a critical role in regulating the fine-scale variability in thermal and hydrological regimes in the polygonal tundra landscape underlain by continuous permafrost. Modeling of thermal regimes of this sensitive ecosystem is essential for understanding the landscape behavior under the current as well as changing climate. We present here an end-to-end effort for high-resolution numerical modeling of thermal hydrology at real-world field sites, utilizing the best available data to characterize and parameterize the models. We develop approaches to model the thermal hydrology of polygonal tundra and apply them at four study sites near Barrow, Alaska, spanning across low to transitional to high-centered polygons, representing a broad polygonal tundra landscape. A multiphase subsurface thermal hydrology model (PFLOTRAN) was developed and applied to study the thermal regimes at four sites. Using a high-resolution lidar digital elevation model (DEM), microtopographic features of the landscape were characterized and represented in the high-resolution model mesh. The best available soil data from field observations and literature were utilized to represent the complex heterogeneous subsurface in the numerical model. Simulation results demonstrate the ability of the developed modeling approach to capture – without recourse to model calibration – several aspects of the complex thermal regimes across the sites, and provide insights into the critical role of polygonal tundra microtopography in regulating the thermal dynamics of the carbon-rich permafrost soils. Areas of significant disagreement between model results and observations highlight the importance of field-based observations of soil thermal and hydraulic properties for modeling-based studies of permafrost thermal dynamics, and provide motivation and guidance for future observations that will help address model and data gaps affecting our current understanding of the system.
An Investigation of Juvenile Gang Membership and Psychopathic Behavior: Evidence from Multilinear Analysis
Authors: Osho G. Solomon , Joseph Justin , Scott Julian , Adams Michael
Published: September 2016

The extant literature provides evidence that gang involvement increases and individuals propensity to perpetrate antisocial behavior. Furthermore, it has been empirically support that criminal involvement increases and individuals like-hood of experiencing victimization. Antisocial personality disorder is described as engaging in aggressive behavior that is socially unacceptable; irresponsible, impulsive behavior; merged with impaired ability to empathize with victims; indifference to social norms, and frequent substance abuse (Cox, Edens, Magyar, & Lilienfeld, 2013; Lilienfeld & Arkowitz, 2007). Therefore, it is logical to deduce that gang affiliation also increases the probability of victimization amongst juveniles, which has been supported by by several authors. Furthermore, considering the symptomology associated with conduct disorder and operational defiant disorder it is probable that gang membership and victimization may have a critical role in the externalization of this psychological disorders symptoms. To examine this question we utilize data gathered by the Gang Resistance Education and Training (G.R.E.A.T) program which consists of (N=5,935) eight grade students from 42 different schools. These schools are located in: Arizona, California, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Wisconsin. The metropolitan regions the subjects reside during the data collection period are: Omaha, Las Cruces, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Torrance, Orlando, Pocatello, Will County, Kansas City, Providence, and Milwaukee. The results, limitations, and implications of the study will be discussed later.
Saturn and Soliloquy: Henryson's Conversation with Chaucerian Free Will
Authors: Timmis Patrick
Published: September 2016

Chaucer's deep interest in Boethius inspired several poetic contemplations of free will's status in a technically pagan classical past. The prime example is Troilus and Criseyde, in which Troilus charges the gods with tyranny before eventually accepting his own responsibility for the poem's tragic events. This article argues that Robert Henryson grants to Cresseid this same maturation process as regards her view of Providence. Cresseid begins by cursing Cupid and Venus for making her beautiful and then condemning her to lose both lovers and status. The gods' punishment for this “blasphemy” is to take away her beauty and “heit,” a response that draws an outcry from Cresseid, the poem's narrator, and the poem's critics. The punishments are, however, simply the physical manifestation of Cresseid's own decisions, received because of her refusal to accept personal responsibility for her actions, and overcome when she finally does accept that responsibility.
Chaucer Folios in Colonial America: A Correction
Authors: Teramura Misha
Published: September 2016

Drawing on archival evidence, this article shows that what is thought to be the earliest record of a Chaucer folio in North America in fact refers to a text by the Protestant theologian Daniel Chamier. The article concludes with a brief survey of other early American readers of Chaucer.
Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, Lines 2411–13
Authors: Edwards A. S. G.
Published: September 2016

This article proposes an emendation to the text of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight at lines 2411–13.
Reflections on Whether the Marriage between Dorothea Brooke and Casaubon Was Consummated
Authors: Newton K. M.
Published: September 2016

Recently the claim, made notably by Barbara Hardy, that in Middlemarch there are strong textual signs that Casaubon was unable to consummate his marriage to Dorothea Brooke owing to impotence, has been questioned by a counterclaim that there are persuasive textual signs that Casaubon did consummate the marriage. This article does not seek to enter this debate directly but is primarily interested in certain critical questions raised by it, especially relating to the role of the narrator. On the surface, whether the marriage was consummated or not is a minor matter in a novel as ambitious in scope as Middlemarch, but this article argues that it is a crucial critical element in the novel.
Realism's Connections: George Eliot's and Fanny Lewald's Poetics
Authors: Kuehn Julia
Published: September 2016

This article scrutinizes the relationship between Eliot and German writer Fanny Lewald. Lewald had met Lewes in London in 1850, so Lewes introduced Marian Evans to Lewald in Berlin in 1854–55. Here, the women discovered a common interest in Spinoza, German biblical scholarship, and Goethe, but also the form of the contemporary novel. The article suggests that Eliot's acquaintance with Lewald and, specifically, Lewald's novel Wandlungen (1853) shaped her understanding of and commitment to realism. Reading Lewald's published and unpublished thoughts on realism alongside Eliot's reviews of Ruskin and Riehl and her poetic excursions in “Amos Barton” and Adam Bede, the article shows that two key concepts emerge in both women's realist models: knowledge and sympathy. Overall, it argues that Eliot's realism should not be seen through the “‘great woman’ model” or as a “manifesto” but, rather, as containing and resisting other writings that surrounded these discussions.
Quitting Middlemarch
Authors: Arnold Jean
Published: September 2016

In Middlemarch, the plot relentlessly moves four main characters toward a single narrative end: they all quit Middlemarch. The essay asks why this mass exodus occurs. The name of the town contains one answer: there are barriers or marches in the middle of the town society. Characters also leave because the town's cultural practices prevent their adaptation to provincial life. Three rural practices that cause this disruption for these characters are gossip, money, and resistance to progressive change the characters are seeking. Alternatively the characters' projects of Bildung are inward, self-centered, and unsuccessful. Both town and characters are at fault. This essay focuses on surface reading of the text through digital searching, the purpose of which is to discover how often keywords and phrases are used, indicating their significance.
Integrating Reading and Technology: The Development of Pamanpintermu
Authors: Arifani Yudhi , Rosyid Harunur
Published: September 2016

Reading as one of English skills has paramount features in shaping EFL English competence. Referring to the importance for reading, it is inevitable that teaching method, assessments tools, reading material and activities have indispensable tasks to attain EFL learners’ reading objectives. This study is intended to develop integrated reading material using PHP software. It is designed to react toward the vast development of technology and to reach the attainment of more comprehensive reading objectives in accordance with International Reading Association’s views which is not achieved yet in today’s EFL teaching context. The study utilizes five phases Research and Development model covering need analysis, design, development, Focus Group Discussion and Try out. The development invented 10 units of reading material within Pamanpintermu’s program containing audio vocabulary survey, timed reading, audio reading, comprehension task, writing sections and its integrated auto assessment devices in every unit. The results from FGD and try out revealed that the theoretical foundation and syntax were categorized into high as it reached the average score of 3.7. In addition, content relevance achieved the average score of 3.9 as high and difficulty level reached 2.3 as medium. Meanwhile, the category of integrated reading skills and auto scoring obtained 3.6 and 3.8 and both categories belonged to high level. The last point, software practicality achieved 3.5 is very high as it is also applicable for teacher made reading material automatically through modifying the reading text, audio, exercises and score thoroughly. Toward overall astonishing prototype Pamanpintermu, it remains one problematic point on the error reading detector section which cannot detect users’ errors reading automatically as it requires intensive investigation from different background field of studies.
Removal of Some Heavy Metals from Incinerator Bottom Ash Using Coconut (Cocos Nucifera) Husk
Authors: Ogeleka Doris F. , Avrukpere Harrison E. , Elemike Elias E. , Edjere Oghenekohwiroro , Agbozu Iwekumo E.
Published: September 2016

There has been a great limitation to the use of incinerator bottom ash (IBA) residue in the construction and manufacturing industries due to the high contents of heavy metals, which poses great threat to the environment and human health. This study was carried out to evaluate the efficiency of heavy metals (Fe, Zn, Cd and Pb) removal from domestic IBA filtrate using a biological material coconut (Cocos nucifera) husk as adsorbent and to remove the metals from the ash residue using the toxicity characteristic leaching procedure (TCLP). The mean percentage removal of the heavy metals for the incinerator bottom ash (IBA) filtrate varied from 75.84 - 99.42% for the two ash types. Similarly, the percentage removal of metals from the ash residues was between 92.34 and 99.97%. The data from this study showed that after the treatment, the heavy metals in the ash filtrate and residue were significantly reduced. Thus, it would be feasible to use the IBA residue as a partial replacement of cement in the construction and manufacturing industries for making monolithic blocks, interlocking bricks, concretes and road construction materials. This would help improve and provide good and effective waste management practice that would reduce the huge volume of ash residue from incineration combustion processes.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for International Journal of English Linguistics, Vol. 6, No. 5
Authors: Xu Diana
Published: September 2016

Reviewer acknowledgements for International Journal of English Linguistics, Vol. 6, No. 5, 2016.
Relational Social Justice Identity Development among Chinese International High School Students
Authors: Yeh Christine J. , Lee Suellen , Pérez-Gualdrón Leyla
Published: September 2016

This research explored the development of a social justice orientation and identity in a sample of high school students in Hong Kong. A sample of 12 students, four teachers, the Principal, and the School Counselor were interviewed in depth about the roles of community service, service learning, and social justice in their identities and school activities. Grounded theory was used to analyze the interview data and six main themes and several subcategories emerged: Six themes emerged from the interview data: (1) Community service as a social experience; (2) Service as a personally rewarding experience; (3) Appreciation of cultural differences; (4) Self-awareness and selflessness; (5) Adult support for social justice; and (6) Challenges in developing a social justice agenda. Implications for social justice identity development in counseling and education are discussed.
Undergraduate Students’ Infractions and the Administration of Social Justice in Nigerian Universities
Authors: Igbineweka V. O. , Iguodala W. A. , Anukaenyi Blessing Osuigwe
Published: September 2016

Nigeria, situated in the West African sub-region of the African continent has an estimated population of over 170 million people with 146 universities. The demand for these universities in the recent past has been unprecedented with an average of 1.5 million applicants for placement annually, the highest anywhere in the world. Regrettably, public funding of the university is grossly inadequate with public expenditure per students as low as N168,000.00 or $1000 (given an exchange rate of N282 to $1). The consequences of the seeming inadequate funding manifest in overcrowded classrooms, inadequate facilities and unfriendly school climate with the attendant restiveness characterizing the behavior of students in the universities. It is the concern expressed by stakeholders about fairness in the administration of social justice that provides the motivation for studies. Three research questions were raised to guide the study perceived to be significant to university administrators, students’ union governments, security agencies and the society at large. The survey research design was chosen to observe and describe the situation of students’ disciplinary problems and the ability of university authorities to fairly administer justice to sanctioning infractions. A questionnaire titled: Students’ Infractions and Administration of Social Justice Questionnaire (SISAQUE) was designed and administered on 454 students and 146 members of Students’ Disciplinary Committees (SDCs) in the sampled schools bringing the total sample size for the study to 600. Data collected were analyzed with percentages, means and standard deviation. The result of data analysis showed that stealing, fighting, involvement in examination mal-practices, battery, intimidation, bullying, cyber crimes and involvement in cultism were the commonly reported infractions in the universities. It was also found among others that students have concerns about fairness in the administration of social justice in the universities. Based on the findings, it was recommended that other tertiary institutions such as polytechnics and colleges be fully developed to attract students with the belief that the unprecedented demand for university education in Nigeria will reduce drastically. It was also recommended that the culture of the rule of law be institutionalized in the process of administering social justice in the universities.
Analyzing Foreign Language Test Anxiety among High School Students in an EFL Context (Note 1)
Authors: Gursoy Esim , Arman Tuba
Published: September 2016

With the increasing need to learn languages as a result of globalization there is a great demand on the part of the learners to communicate in a second/foreign language, which is also supported downwards by the governments and upwards by the parents. Among the many aspects of foreign language learning, affective factors are researched a lot as they are dependent on contexts, individual differences, cultural background, teaching methodology etc., which cause a variation in the results. The current research focuses on test anxiety as one of the major affective factors. Thus it aims to identify the level of test anxiety and its relationship with gender, grade level, and academic achievement. Moreover, the causes of test anxiety were investigated according to students’ own perceptions. A test anxiety scale and semi-structured interviews were conducted to gather the qualitative and quantitative data. The overall results showed that the participants had a moderate level of test anxiety. Females were found to be more anxious than males only in some aspects; low achievement scores provoked test anxiety with regard to a few items, and 9th graders were found to be more anxious than the 10th graders. According to participants’ own perceptions, test validity, time limit, teacher attitudes, test techniques, proctors, length of the test, testing environment and clarity of test instructions were the causes of test anxiety.
Effect of Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome on Severity, Quality of Life, Sleep Quality and Inflammatory Markers in Patients of Asthma in India
Authors: Singh Mandeep , Gupta Nitesh , Kumar Raj
Published: September 2016

Introduction: The study aimed to compare the effect of obesity with and without metabolic syndrome on asthma severity, quality of life, sleep quality, sleep disordered breathing and inflammatory markers as compared to non-obese asthma patients. Material and methods: 60 asthma patients recruited for the study were divided equally into non-obese (NOA), obese without metabolic syndrome (OANMS) and obese with metabolic syndrome (OAMS) groups. Study cohorts were assessed for severity of asthma, quality of life and quality of sleep using questionnaires and inflammatory markers (FENO, hs-CRP, IL-5, IL-6 and leptin). Institutional ethical committee approved the study. Results: The results suggests OAMS patients may be a subtype of asthmatics having significantly severe asthma (p < 0.05), poor quality of life (p < 0.05), high risk of OSA (p < 0.05), decreased lung volumes (FRC) (p < 0.05), higher levels of inflammatory markers (leptin and IL-6) (p < 0.05), and high incidence of sleep disordered breathing (p < 0.05) in comparison to NOA and OANMS patients. Conclusions: The present study has shown that obese asthmatics especially with metabolic syndrome represent a subtype of asthmatic population. Hence, the treatment of metabolic syndrome may be necessary in addition to asthma to achieve optimal control.
Hemoptysis in a Patient with Multifocal Primary Pulmonary Angiosarcoma
Authors: Piechuta Aleksandra , Przybyłowski Tadeusz , Szołkowska Małgorzata , Krenke Rafał
Published: September 2016

Primary pulmonary angiosarcoma (PPA) is a rare tumour arising from arterial or venous pulmonary vessels of various size. It is characterized by aggressive course and poor prognosis. The early diagnosis is difficult due to diverse clinical and radiological manifestations. We present a case report of 70 year-old man, active cigarette-smoker, with a 2-month history of non-massive hemoptysis. The thorax CT revealed several solid pulmonary nodules surrounded by areas of ground glass opacity. As bronchoscopy failed to deliver adequate tissue samples, video assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) with pleura and lung biopsy was necessary. Histopathological findings were consistent with pulmonary angiosarcoma. Since no extrapulmonary lesions were demonstrated, the final diagnosis of primary pulmonary angiosarcoma was made. The patient died three months after the onset of symptoms. Our case report highlights that differential diagnosis in patients with hemoptysis and pulmonary nodules should include primary pulmonary sarcoma.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome and Hypothyroidism—Merely Concurrence or Causal Association?
Authors: Kuczyński Wojciech , Gabryelska Agata , Mokros Łukasz , Białasiewicz Piotr
Published: September 2016

The prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) ranges from 4 to 7% in men and from 2 to 5% in women. Its deleterious consequences such as traffic accidents, cardiovascular complications increasing morbidity and mortality, make it a major health problem. Apart from obesity (a major risk factor for OSAHS), hypothyroid patients are prone to reveal this phenotype. Although hypothyroidism seems an acknowledged risk factor for OSAHS, some authors report the lack of clinically relevant association. The argument partly depends on the increased prevalence of hypothyroidism in OSAHS patients, but the epidemiological data is limited and somehow inconsistent; even less is known about sub-clinical hypothyroidism in OSAHS patients. Even if frequency of overt and sub-clinical hypothyroidism in OSAHS patients is comparable to the general population, screening for it seems beneficial, as hormone replacement therapy may improve sleep disordered breathing. Unfortunately, this favorable outcome was found only in a few studies with limited number of patients with hypothyroidism. Yet, despite the lack of international guidelines and no large multicentre studies on the topic available, we think that TSH screening might prove beneficial in vast majority of OSAHS patients.
Geotecnologias e Ensino de Geografia: algumas aplicações práticas / Geotechnologies and Geography Teaching: some practical applications
Authors: Pereira Vitor Hugo Campelo , Diniz Marco Tulio Mendonça
Published: September 2016

O presente artigo objetiva propor algumas formas de aplicação de geotecnologias no ensino de Geografia no âmbito da Educação Básica, tanto no Ensino Fundamental quanto Ensino Médio.  Para isso, a metodologia adotada se baseou na análise dos Planos Curriculares Nacionais (PCN) de Geografia e no uso de softwares que apresentam funções de representação espacial, bem como na indicação de projetos educacionais pautados no uso de geotecnologias. Diversos conteúdos previstos no ensino de Geografia podem ser abordados e dinamizados. Escala cartográfica, relevo e análise de mudanças na paisagem são exemplos de questões que podem ser trabalhadas com o uso de softwares livres como Google Earth, Philcarto, ScapeToad e a partir da sistematização proposta pelos projetos educacionais GEODEM, GEODEF e GEOIDEIA. Os resultados indicaram uma elevada aplicabilidade dos softwares e projetos testados pela pesquisa para o ensino de conteúdos de Geografia sugeridos pelos PCN, o que pode contribuir para uma aprendizagem mais consolidada dos mesmos.

Abstract

This article aims to propose some form of geo-technologies application in the teaching of Geography under the Basic Education, in elementary school and in high school. For this, the methodology adopted was based on the analysis of National Curriculum Plans of Geography and the use of software that present spatial representation of functions as well as the indication of guided educational projects in the use of geotechnologies. Several planned content in Geography education can be addressed and dinamized. Cartographic scale, relief and analysis of changes in the landscape are examples of issues that can be worked with the use of free software such as Google Earth, Philcarto, ScapeToad and from the systematization proposed by educational projects GEODEM, GEODEF and GEOIDEIA. The results indicated a high applicability of the software and projects tested by research for teaching Geography content suggested by PCN, which can contribute to a more consolidated learning them.

Keywords: Basic Education. Spatial representation. Free softwares. National Curriculum Plans.
Efeitos diretos e indiretos da migração de retorno no Brasil nos anos 2000 / Direct and indirect effects of the return migration in Brazil in the 2000’s
Authors: Miranda-Ribeiro Adriana De , Garcia Ricardo Alexandrino , Lobo Carlos
Published: September 2016

No cenário das migrações no Brasil, o retorno ao local de nascimento tem crescido de importância nas últimas décadas. Este artigo tem como objetivo principal a mensuração dos efeitos direto e indireto da migração de retorno às unidades da Federação brasileira, no período 2000-2010. Foram utilizados os microdados do Censo Demográfico de 2010. A metodologia denomina de efeito direto os retornados ao local de nascimento. O efeito indireto é composto por parentes do retornado, desde que cumpram alguns requisitos. Os resultados apontam que a soma dos efeitos diretos e indiretos da migração de retorno correspondem a quase a metade dos imigrantes de última etapa do país.

Abstract

The return to the place of birth plays an important role in the Brazilian migration scenario. This paper measures the direct and indirect effects of return migration in Brazil between 2000 and 2010. Data come from the 2010 Brazilian Demographic Census. Those who return to the place of birth compose the direct effect. The indirect effect is composed by the returned migrant’s relatives, conditioned to some rules.  Results show that the return migration effects in Brazil represent almost a half of the Brazilian immigrants in the period.

Keywords: spatial distribution, internal migration, return migration.
Participação popular no florestamento de área desertificada no município de São José do Seridó (RN) / Popular participation in the area of reforestation desetified the municipality of São José do Seridó/RN
Authors: Medeiros Josimar Araújo , Aloufa Magdi Ibrahim
Published: September 2016

Nas áreas de ocorrência de desertificação do Semiárido Brasileiro vem emergindo sítios permanentemente sem recobrimento vegetal, impactando negativamente as atividades econômicas. Esse trabalho objetivou realizar o florestamento de área com essa fisionomia com o plantio da C. quercifolius com a participação dos sujeitos locais. O estudo foi desenvolvido na localidade rural São Paulo, São José do Seridó/RN. Realizou-se o plantio de 120 mudas preparadas pelos agricultores em embalagens plásticas e em sementeira,  plantadas em covas com  50 cm x 25 cm  e espaçamento de 3 m.  Um ano após o plantio, sobreviveram 56 provenientes das embalagens plásticas e 46 da sementeira. O crescimento médio foi respectivamente, de 7 cm e 4 cm. No entorno de 100% das plantas constatou-se o recrutamento de 14 espécies comum na estação chuvosa e em 73% a presença da jurema preta. A produção de mudas via sementeira revelou-se mais apropriada para plantio da xerófita pela simplificação de todas as etapas, tornando acessível aos agricultores. O uso de plantas com cerca de 120 dias de nascimento associado ao plantio, aproveitando-se as primeiras chuvas do ano e a deposição de seixos rolados no entorno da planta muito contribuíram para a taxa de sobrevivência alcançada.

Abstract

In the Brazilian semiarid desertification occurrence areas is emerging sites permanently without plant cover negatively impacting economic activities. Considering that fact this study aimed to perform  an action of forestation with this face with the planting of C. quercifolius with the participation of local individuals. The study was conducted in rural locality São Paulo, São José do Seridó / RN. There was the planting of 120 seedlings prepared by farmers in plastic packaging and seeding, planted in holes 50 cm x 25 cm and spacing of 3 m. A year after planting, surviving 56 from the plastic packaging and 46 sowing. The growth medium was respectively 7 cm and 4 cm. In the vicinity of 100% of the plants was found recruitment of 14 species common in the rainy season and 73% in the presence of black jurema. The production of seedlings through seeding proved to be more suitable for planting dryland by simplifying every step, making it accessible to farmers. The use of plants with about 120 days of birth, associated with planting taking advantage of the first rains of the year and the deposition of boulders surrounding the plant contributed greatly to the survival rate achieved.

 

Keywords: degraded area; Rehabilitation; faveleira; Endogenous factors; facilitation.

  
Stability and Sterility of Enoxaparin 8 mg/mL Subcutaneous Injectable Solution
Authors: Moffett Brady S. , Dinh Kimberly , Placencia Jennifer , Pelkey Gregory , Hui Shiu-Ki Rocky , Teruya Jun
Published: September 2016

BACKGROUND: Enoxaparin is often diluted to accurately deliver doses to neonatal and infant patients. Current recommendations for dilutions may not be adequate for the smallest patients.

METHODS: Review of dosing at our institution occurred, and an 8 mg/mL concentration of enoxaparin was chosen. A concentration of 8 mg/mL was compounded by diluting 0.4 mL of enoxaparin (100 mg/mL) into 4.6 mL of sterile water for injection into an empty sterile vial. Four syringes of the 8 mg/mL concentration were prepared by 5 technicians (20 total syringes). Stability and sterility testing occurred a 0, 7, 14, and 30 days. One-way repeated-measures analysis of variance was used to detect significant differences in Anti–Factor Xa concentrations at the testing time points.

RESULTS: The dilution of enoxaparin was sterile at 30 days but exhibited significant degradation at the 30-day point (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION: A dilution of enoxaparin 8 mg/mL is stable and sterile for 14 days refrigerated but is not stable at 30 days.
Outcomes in Postoperative Pediatric Cardiac Surgical Patients Who Received an Antiepileptic Drug
Authors: Messinger Mindl M. , Dinh Kimberly L. , McDade Erin J. , Moffett Brady S. , Wilfong Angus A. , Cabrera Antonio G.
Published: September 2016

BACKGROUND: Advances in cardiac operations over the last few decades, including corrective operations in early life, have dramatically increased the survival of children with congenital heart disease. However, postoperative care has been associated with neurologic complications, with seizures being the most common manifestation. The primary objective of this study is to describe the outcomes in pediatric patients who received an antiepileptic drug (AED) post–cardiac surgery.

METHOD: A retrospective cohort study was performed in all patients less than 18 years of age who received an AED in the cardiovascular intensive care unit at Texas Children's Hospital from June 2002 until June 2012. Cardiac surgical patients initiated on phenobarbital, phenytoin, and levetiracetam were queried. Patients were excluded if the AED was not initiated on the admission for surgery. Patients who received 1 AED were compared to patients who received 2 AED, and differences in outcomes examined between the 3 AEDs used were evaluated.

RESULTS: A total of 37 patients met the study criteria. Patients were initiated on an AED a median of 4 days following surgery and became seizure free a median of 1 day after initiation, with 65% remaining seizure free after the first dose. Half of all patients required 2 AEDs for seizure control, with a higher proportion of adolescents requiring 2 AEDs (p = 0.04). No differences were found when comparing the collected outcomes between phenobarbital, fosphenytoin, or levetiracetam.

CONCLUSION: No adverse events were reported with the AEDs reviewed. Further work is necessary to evaluate long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes in this population and whether outcomes are a result of the AED or of other clinical sequelae.
Impact of Computerized Provider Order Entry on Total Parenteral Nutrition in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Franco Kyle A. , O'Mara Keliana
Published: September 2016

OBJECTIVES: To determine if computerized provider order entry (CPOE) implementation impacts the time it takes for preterm neonates to reach their parenteral macronutrient goals.

METHODS: Retrospective review of neonates <1750 g receiving parenteral nutrition (PN) before and after the implementation of CPOE. Primary outcome was the attainment of parenteral macronutrient goals. Secondary outcomes included time to attainment, the frequency of electrolyte abnormalities, and the incidence of required adjustments made to PN orders by verification pharmacists.

RESULTS: Goal PN was achieved by 12/47 (25.5%) intervention vs. 2/44 (4.5%) control group infants (p < 0.05). This goal was attained in 10.8 ± 7.5 days in the intervention group and 10 ± 4.2 days in the control group (p = 0.90). Goal protein was reached by 74.5% of CPOE patients vs. 36.4% of controls, p < 0.05. Lipid goals were achieved by 98% vs. 100% (p = 0.33) of patients and were attained at an average of 1.5 ± 0.8 days vs. 2.0 ± 1.1 days (p < 0.05). Abnormal serum electrolyte values occurred more frequently in the control group (0.79 vs. 1.12/day PN). Adjustments by a verification pharmacist were required in 5.6% of CPOE compared with 30.4% of control group orders (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS: CPOE parenteral nutrition increased the proportion of preterm neonates attaining overall macronutrient goals. With CPOE, protein goals were reached by more patients and goal lipids were achieved faster. This system also decreased the number of pharmacist interventions during verification of PN orders and appeared to positively impact the incidence of serum electrolyte disturbances.
Informed Consent as a Litigation Strategy in the Field of Aesthetic Surgery: An Analysis Based on Court Precedents
Authors: Park Bo Young , Kwon Jungwoo , Kang So Ra , Hong Seung Eun
Published: September 2016

Background In an increasing number of lawsuits doctors lose, despite providing preoperative patient education, because of failure to prove informed consent. We analyzed judicial precedents associated with insufficient informed consent to identify judicial factors and trends related to aesthetic surgery medical litigation.

Methods We collected data from civil trials between 1995 and 2015 that were related to aesthetic surgery and resulted in findings of insufficient informed consent. Based on these data, we analyzed the lawsuits, including the distribution of surgeries, dissatisfactions, litigation expenses, and relationship to informed consent.

Results Cases were found involving the following types of surgery: facial rejuvenation (38 cases), facial contouring surgery (27 cases), mammoplasty (16 cases), blepharoplasty (29 cases), rhinoplasty (21 cases), body-contouring surgery (15 cases), and breast reconstruction (2 cases). Common reasons for postoperative dissatisfaction were deformities (22%), scars (17%), asymmetry (14%), and infections (6%). Most of the malpractice lawsuits occurred in Seoul (population 10 million people; 54% of total plastic surgeons) and in primary-level local clinics (113 cases, 82.5%). In cases in which only invalid informed consent was recognized, the average amount of consolation money was KRW 9,107,143 (USD 8438). In cases in which both violation of non-malfeasance and invalid informed consent were recognized, the average amount of consolation money was KRW 12,741,857 (USD 11,806), corresponding to 38.6% of the amount of the judgment.

Conclusions Surgeons should pay special attention to obtaining informed consent, because it is a double-edged sword; it has clinical purposes for doctors and patients but may also be a litigation strategy for lawyers.
Acellular Dermal Matrix as a Core Strut for Projection in Nipple Reconstruction: Approaches for Three Different Methods of Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Park Gui-Yong , Yoon Eul-Sik , Cho Hee-Eun , Lee Byung-Il , Park Seung-Ha
Published: September 2016

Background The objective of this paper was to describe a novel technique for improving the maintenance of nipple projection in primary nipple reconstruction by using acellular dermal matrix as a strut in one of three different configurations, according to the method of prior breast reconstruction. The struts were designed to best fill the different types of dead spaces in nipple reconstruction depending on the breast reconstruction method.

Methods A total of 50 primary nipple reconstructions were performed between May 2012 and May 2015. The prior breast reconstruction methods were latissimus dorsi (LD) flap (28 cases), transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous (TRAM) flap (10 cases), or tissue expander/implant (12 cases). The nipple reconstruction technique involved the use of local flaps, including the C-V flap or star flap. A 1×2-cm acellular dermal matrix was placed into the core with O-, I-, and L-shaped struts for prior LD, TRAM, and expander/implant methods, respectively. The projection of the reconstructed nipple was measured at the time of surgery and at 3, 6, and 9 months postoperatively.

Results The nine-month average maintenance of nipple projection was 73.0%±9.67% for the LD flap group using an O-strut, 72.0%±11.53% for the TRAM flap group using an I-strut, and 69.0%±10.82% for the tissue expander/implant group using an L-strut. There were no cases of infection, wound dehiscence, or flap necrosis.

Conclusions The application of an acellular dermal matrix with a different kind of strut for each of 3 breast reconstruction methods is an effective addition to current techniques for improving the maintenance of long-term projection in primary nipple reconstruction.
Clinical Experiences with the Scapular Fascial Free Flap
Authors: Park Il Ho , Chung Chul Hoon , Chang Yong Joon , Kim Jae Hyun
Published: September 2016

Background The goal of reconstruction is to provide coverage of exposed vital structures with well-vascularized tissue for optimal restoration of form and function. Here, we present our clinical experience with the use of the scapular fascial free flap to correct facial asymmetry and to reconstruct soft tissue defects of the extremities.

Methods We used a scapular fascial free flap in 12 cases for soft tissue coverage of the extremities or facial soft tissue augmentation.

Results The flaps ranged in size from 3×12 to 13×23 cm. No cases of total loss of the flap occurred. Partial loss of the flap occurred in 1 patient, who was treated with a turnover flap using the adjacent scapular fascial flap and a skin graft. Partial loss of the skin graft occurred in 4 patients due to infection or hematoma beneath the graft, and these patients underwent another skin graft. Four cases of seroma at the donor site occurred, and these cases were treated with conservative management or capsulectomy and quilting sutures.

Conclusions The scapular fascial free flap has many advantages, including a durable surface for restoration of form and contours, a large size with a constant pedicle, adequate surface for tendon gliding, and minimal donor-site scarring. We conclude that despite the occurrence of a small number of complications, the scapular fascial free flap should be considered to be a viable option for soft tissue coverage of the extremities and facial soft tissue augmentation.
Three-Directional Reconstruction of a Massive Perineal Defect after Wide Local Excision of Extramammary Paget's Disease
Authors: Cho Seung Woo , Chang Hak , Kwon Sung Tack
Published: September 2016

Extramammary Paget's disease (EMPD) is a rare, slow-growing intraepithelial malignancy that mainly involves the genital region, including the vulva, penis, scrotum, perianal, and periurethral areas. Although several treatment options exist, wide local excision with a safe margin is considered the treatment of choice. After resection of the lesion, it is often challenging to reconstruct the defect because defects in the perineal region require adequate volume for protection and are susceptible to infections, which is a particularly significant risk for large defects. We report a case of perivulvar EMPD that was reconstructed with three-directional local flaps after wide excision of the tumor. We covered the defect sequentially using the following 3 flaps: a gracilis myocutaneous flap from the left thigh, a bipedicled V-Y advancement flap from the lower abdomen, and an internal pudendal artery perforator-based island flap from the right buttock. To the best of our knowledge, this report is the first to describe a three-directional approach to extensive perivulvar reconstruction.
A Novel Nipple Reconstruction Technique for Maintaining Nipple Projection: The Boomerang Flap
Authors: Kim Young-Eun , Hong Ki Yong , Minn Kyung Won , Jin Ung Sik
Published: September 2016

Nipple-areolar complex (NAC) reconstruction is the final step in the long journey of breast reconstruction for mastectomy patients. Successful NAC reconstruction depends on the use of appropriate surgical techniques that are simple and reliable. To date, numerous techniques have been used for nipple reconstruction, including contralateral nipple sharing and various local flaps. Recently, it has been common to utilize local flaps. However, the most common nipple reconstruction problem encountered with local flaps is the loss of nipple projection; there can be approximately 50% projection loss in reconstructed nipples over long-term follow-up. Several factors might contribute to nipple projection loss, and we tried to overcome these factors by performing nipple reconstructions using a boomerang flap technique, which is a modified C–V flap that utilizes the previous mastectomy scar to maintain long-term nipple projection.
Positive Criminology and Rethinking the Response to Adolescent Addiction: Evidence on the Role of Social Support, Religiosity, and Service to Others
Authors: Johnson Byro R. , Lee Matthew T. , Pagano Maria E. , Post Stephen G.
Published: September 2016

Adolescent addiction has emerged as a major public health problem. The greatest increase in alcohol and other drug use disorders can be found among youth. Concurrently, technological advances in policing coupled with aggressive prosecuting and sentencing practices have contributed to the growth of America’s correctional system. The assertive response of policing, courts, and corrections, however, have not prevented the dramatic rise of adolescent addiction. Unfortunately, there is no national data tracking addicted youth in the criminal justice system to evaluate what works when it comes to youth with addiction. This article reviews justice system responses to adolescent offenders with addiction, and promising approaches engaging juveniles in programmatic components of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). This study highlights the role of spirituality, service to others, and social support in maintaining sobriety, reducing arrests, and lowering recidivism for adolescents court-referred to treatment. Recommendations for improving the response to adolescent offenders with addiction are offered.
Protein sequences bound to mineral surfaces persist into deep time
Authors: Demarchi Beatrice , Hall Shaun , Roncal-Herrero Teresa , Freeman Colin L , Woolley Jos , Crisp Molly K , Wilson Julie , Fotakis Anna , Fischer Roman , Kessler Benedikt M , Rakownikow Jersie-Christensen Rosa , Olsen Jesper V , Haile James , Thomas Jessica , Marean Curtis W , Parkington John , Presslee Samantha , Lee-Thorp Julia , Ditchfield Peter , Hamilton Jacqueline F , Ward Martyn W , Wang Chunting Michelle , Shaw Marvin D , Harrison Terry , Domínguez-Rodrigo Manuel , MacPhee Ross DE , Kwekason Amandus , Ecker Michaela , Kolska Horwitz Liora , Chazan Michael , Kröger Roland , Thomas-Oates Jane , Harding John H , Cappellini Enrico , Penkman Kirsty , Collins Matthew J
Published: September 2016

Proteins persist longer in the fossil record than DNA, but the longevity, survival mechanisms and substrates remain contested. Here, we demonstrate the role of mineral binding in preserving the protein sequence in ostrich (Struthionidae) eggshell, including from the palaeontological sites of Laetoli (3.8 Ma) and Olduvai Gorge (1.3 Ma) in Tanzania. By tracking protein diagenesis back in time we find consistent patterns of preservation, demonstrating authenticity of the surviving sequences. Molecular dynamics simulations of struthiocalcin-1 and -2, the dominant proteins within the eggshell, reveal that distinct domains bind to the mineral surface. It is the domain with the strongest calculated binding energy to the calcite surface that is selectively preserved. Thermal age calculations demonstrate that the Laetoli and Olduvai peptides are 50 times older than any previously authenticated sequence (equivalent to ~16 Ma at a constant 10°C).