bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Improvement of Roughness Height Parameterization of the Surface Energy Balance System (SEBS) over the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Chen Xuelong , Su Zhongbo , Ma Yaoming , Yang Kun , Wen Jun , Zhang Yu
Published: September 2012

Roughness height for heat transfer is a crucial parameter in the estimation of sensible heat flux. In this study, the performance of the Surface Energy Balance System (SEBS) has been tested and evaluated for typical land surfaces on the Tibetan Plateau on the basis of time series of observations at four sites with bare soil, sparse canopy, dense canopy, and snow surface, respectively. Both under- and overestimation at low and high sensible heat fluxes by SEBS was discovered. Through sensitivity analyses, it was identified that these biases are related to the SEBS parameterization of bare soil’s excess resistance to heat transfer (kB−1, where k is the von Kármán constant and B−1 is the Stanton number). The kB−1 of bare soil in SEBS was replaced. The results show that the revised model performs better than the original model.
Characteristics of Precipitating Convective Systems Accounting for the Summer Rainfall of Tropical and Subtropical South America
Authors: Romatschke Ulrike , Houze Robert A.
Published: September 2012

Ten years of Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission precipitation radar data are used to study the physical properties of the precipitating cloud systems that account for the summer rainfall of tropical and subtropical South America. Radar echoes in the continental subtropics tend to be of an intensely convective nature, especially at the eastern foothills of the Andes where diurnally forced deep convective cells of small horizontal scale form when moist low-level flow is driven toward the foothills in connection with a midlatitude disturbance. As the disturbance moves east over the La Plata basin, nocturnal convective systems of larger horizontal scale with wide stratiform regions occur in a zone of general convergence. Precipitation in the continental tropics is generally produced by convective systems with greater stratiform composition. At the northeastern foothills of the central Andes, radar echoes of nocturnal convective systems of medium to large horizontal scale occur where moist low-level flow is lifted over the foothills. Growth of systems to large size is inhibited by daytime divergence at the foothills. Over the Amazon basin, daytime systems are also smaller than nocturnal systems. Radar echoes of precipitation over the Brazilian Highlands are generally smaller in horizontal scale, more convective, and mostly occur during the afternoon over elevated terrain. In the oceanic South Atlantic convergence zone, radar echoes grow to extremely large sizes. They are highly stratiform in nature and occur during all times of the day except late evening when convergence is weakened as a response to continental heating.
Horizontal Momentum Diffusion in GCMs Using the Dynamic Smagorinsky Model
Authors: Schaefer-Rolffs Urs , Becker Erich
Published: September 2012

A dynamic version of Smagorinsky’s diffusion scheme is presented that is applicable for large-eddy simulations (LES) of the atmospheric dynamics. The approach is motivated (i) by the incompatibility of conventional hyperdiffusion schemes with the conservation laws, and (ii) because the conventional Smagorinsky model (which fulfills the conservation laws) does not maintain scale invariance, which is mandatory for a correct simulation of the macroturbulent kinetic energy spectrum. The authors derive a two-dimensional (horizontal) formulation of the dynamic Smagorinsky model (DSM) and present three solutions of the so-called Germano identity: the method of least squares, a solution without invariance of the Smagorinsky parameter, and a tensor-norm solution. The applicability of the tensor-norm approach is confirmed in simulations with the Kühlungsborn mechanistic general circulation model (KMCM). The standard spectral dynamical core of the model facilitates the implementation of the test filter procedure of the DSM. Various energy spectra simulated with the DSM and the conventional Smagorinsky scheme are presented. In particular, the results show that only the DSM allows for a reasonable spectrum at all scales. Latitude–height cross sections of zonal-mean fluid variables are given and show that the DSM preserves the main features of the atmospheric dynamics. The best ratio for the test-filter scale to the resolution scale is found to be 1.33, resulting in dynamically determined Smagorinsky parameters cS from 0.10 to 0.22 in the troposphere. This result is very similar to other values of cS found in previous three-dimensional applications of the DSM.
Spectral Analyses of the Polygonal Eye of Typhoon Sinlaku
Authors: Itano Toshihisa , Hosoya Muneyuki
Published: September 2012

The geometry and behavior of the polygonal eye of Typhoon Sinlaku (T0216) are presented both objectively and quantitatively based on the ground-based radar data by using two types of spectral analyses (i.e., Fourier analysis and time–space cross-spectral analysis). The analyses reveal that the azimuthal wavenumber-2 perturbation is dominant even when the apparent shape of the eye seems pentagonal. Then the wavenumber-5 perturbation dominates second in most of the analytical period although it becomes most dominant during the typhoon’s passage over Okinawa Island, Japan. The counterclockwise phase shift is seen not only in these perturbations but also in, at least, the wavenumber-4, -5, and -6 perturbations. Except for the wavenumber-2 perturbation, the angular velocities are around 130° h−1 and almost coincide with each other. The radial wind profile estimated from the surface observational data suggests the existence of a ring-shaped high-vorticity region enclosing the core of the typhoon. This implies that the formation of the pentagonal eye can be attributed to wave breaking caused by barotropic instability of the circular flow constituting this typhoon. Such a possibility is also discussed by performing the linear stability analysis based on the nondivergent barotropic vorticity equation.
Twenty-One Years of Verification from the HIRLAM NWP System
Authors: Eerola Kalle
Published: September 2012

The High-Resolution Limited-Area Model (HIRLAM) international research program maintains a synoptic-scale NWP system. At the Finnish Meteorological Institute, the HIRLAM system has been run operationally since 1990. The HIRLAM forecasts from 1990 to 2012 have been verified against the numerical analysis. In 2-day forecasts, the monthly rms error of the mean sea level pressure has decreased from about 4 to about 2 hPa; that is, the error is now about half of the value it was in the early 1990s. Similar reduction is seen in the 500-hPa height. The negative bias has decreased significantly. In addition, the dependence on the weather regime, measured as the correlation between the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) index and rms error, has decreased. The reason for these improvements can often be attributed to changes in the HIRLAM system. A single improvement, improving most significantly the forecast skill, is the rerun concept, which improves the HIRLAM first guess by utilizing the high-quality ECMWF analysis. Verifying against observations or against the initial analysis gives similar results for a 48-h forecast. For a 6-h forecast, however, the field verification gives lower rms error values and lower bias values. In summary, the results indicate that the goal of the HIRLAM program has been fulfilled: to develop and maintain an up-to-date NWP system for 1- and 2-day forecasts on a limited domain.
ERK is Involved in Tooth-pressure-induced Fos Expression in Vc Neurons
Authors: Hasegawa M. , Kondo M. , Suzuki I. , Shimizu N. , Sessle B.J. , Iwata K.
Published: September 2012

Discomfort and pain encountered during orthodontic treatment are major problems for patients, but the details of the underlying neural processes and molecular mechanisms are not well-understood. Here we show that noxious tooth mechanical pressure induced by orthodontic elastics resulted in a rapid and transient activation of extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK) in the trigeminal spinal subnucleus interpolaris and caudalis transition zone (Vi/Vc), trigeminal spinal subnucleus caudalis (Vc), and upper cervical spinal cord (Vc/C2). The phosphorylated ERK (pERK) was observed in neurons but not in astroglia and microglia. Single-plane scanning analysis indicated that the pERK was localized to the nucleus of Vc neurons. In addition, the tooth mechanical pressure led to Fos expression in the pERK-positive Vc neurons that would be suppressed by intrathecal administration of an MEK1/2 inhibitor (PD98059). Taken together, these findings suggest that activation of the ERK signaling cascade following noxious mechanical pressure on the teeth regulates Fos expression in Vc neurons and may thereby contribute to pain associated with orthodontic treatment.
Access to a Responsiveness to Intervention Model
Authors: O’Connor Rollanda E. , Bocian Kathleen M. , Sanchez Victoria , Beach Kristen D.
Published: September 2012

In this study, we tested the outcomes of access to a response to intervention (RtI) model in kindergarten or in first grade on end-of-Grade-2 reading achievement and placement in special education. Across five schools, 214 students who began having access to Tier 2 intervention in kindergarten or first grade were compared in Grades 1 and 2 with 208 cohort peers who were average readers and 102 historical control condition second grade poor readers who did not receive Tier 2 intervention. Results demonstrated significant effects on reading achievement for access to RtI in kindergarten at the end of first grade (effects averaged 0.48), but not in second grade, except for students who were English language learners (ELLs), who showed an advantage through the end of second grade. Students with access to RtI overall had significantly higher outcomes at the end of Grade 2 than students in the historical control, with no differences resulting from ELL status. No significant difference in the proportion of students placed in special education was noted; however, a greater proportion of the students found eligible as with learning disabilities had poor reading scores if they were placed after participating in RtI.
The Effect of Grade Norms in College Students
Authors: Cressman Markus N. , Liljequist Laura
Published: September 2012

The Woodcock–Johnson III Tests of Achievement grade norms versus age norms were examined in the calculation of discrepancy scores in 202 college students. Difference scores were calculated between the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale–3rd Edition Full Scale IQ and the Woodcock–Johnson III Total Achievement, Broad Reading, Math, and Written Language scores. The proportion meeting the substantial discrepancy criterion of two standard deviations plus or minus the standard error of the difference between means was 7.9% using age norms and 37.6% using grade norms. Using mixed analyses of variance, the authors found main effects for type of norm for all difference scores, with grade norms yielding significantly higher difference scores than age norms. A main effect for student status (traditional-age students n = 124, non-traditional-age students n = 78) was found for Total Achievement, Broad Reading, and Math such that traditional-age students had greater discrepancies. Discrepancy scores are contrasted with absolute scores (SS < 85) in the identification of learning disabilities as well. Implications of using grade versus age norms are discussed.
Why many cooks if they can spoil the broth? The determinants of multiparty mediation
Authors: Böhmelt Tobias
Published: September 2012

Which factors drive the onset of multiparty mediation? Despite numerous studies explaining the onset of international mediation in conflicts, the literature offers little insight into when we are likely to see ‘multiparty mediation’, that is, mediation attempts that are conducted by a coalition of interveners. The latter are different from those interventions that only see one mediator, however: mediators forming a coalition are likely to be constrained by different domestic factors and may have different incentives than states pursuing unilateral approaches. Thus, ignoring these patterns can have serious consequences for our theoretical expectations and empirical inferences on mediation onset. In order to address this shortcoming, this article introduces concepts from the coalition-formation literature to the existent research on mediation, and examines the onset of multiparty mediation from a twofold perspective. First, there are supply-side determinants, that is, interveners’ incentives for multiparty mediation. Second, the author studies demand-side influences, that is, factors pertaining to the belligerents. By analyzing data for 1950–2000, the following research’s main contribution stems from the empirical test of the theoretical framework in a quantitative research design. The results point to a disconnect between the factors that promote single-party mediation onset and those that promote multiparty mediations.
The effect of trust in government on rallies ’round the flag
Authors: Chatagnier J Tyson
Published: September 2012

Previous research has shown that foreign policy crises can cause a ‘rally ’round the flag’ effect, boosting citizens’ approval of their leaders. While scholars agree on the effect’s existence, its magnitude and nature are less readily apparent. This article considers two factors that have been neglected in previous studies: the context in which a conflict occurs and the public’s level of trust in government. The theory presented here suggests that trust is not only an effect of a rally, but mediates the magnitude of the rally. It also proposes that the nature of the rally will be unaffected by whether the state is provoked by its opponent prior to crisis initiation. The resulting hypotheses are tested using aggregate US public opinion data around international crises, as well as individual-level data from the 1990–92 ANES panel regarding the Persian Gulf War. The analysis indicates that trust in government has a major influence on the size of a rally effect, especially at the individual level. However, trust matters more for those in the opposition than for those who have supported the government in the past. These results suggest implications for understanding public attitudes toward foreign policy and for the diversionary theory of war.
Conflict resolution processes, uncertainty and labour demand
Authors: Colino Alberto
Published: September 2012

In this article, the impact of diminishing levels of uncertainty on labour demand, as a consequence of conflict resolution processes, is tested by means of a case study of a European region largely affected by political violence. For this purpose, the response of Basque manufacturing employment during conflict resolution attempts is used as a natural experiment with which to evaluate the effect of reduced uncertainty on labour demand. Accordingly, using the difference-in-differences technique, which overcomes some of the shortcomings of previous studies, the relative performance of Basque labour demand during the last two attempts to bring peace to the region is quantified. The longest ceasefire episode ever declared in the region is shown to have triggered a reactivation in labour demand and, therefore, that Basque manufacturing firms responded positively to the reduction in uncertainty by significantly raising their average number of employees. More precisely, it is found that the average number of workers employed by Basque manufacturing firms increased considerably when credible peace talks directed towards the end of the conflict were undertaken. Thus, when compared with their counterparts in similar Spanish provinces, the truce declared in 1998 boosted employment demand in Basque companies by more than 4%, which reflects the economic dividend of peace to be reaped in the event of an eventual conflict resolution and the establishment of a peaceful environment in the region.
Analysis of antibacterial properties of naturally colored cottons
Authors: Ma Mingbo , Li Rongxia , Du Yangyang , Tang Zhirong , Zhou Wenlong
Published: September 2012

The antibacterial activity of naturally colored cottons (NCCs) is evaluated. Compared to the conventional white cotton, brown NCC was found to exhibit excellent antibacterial activity with a reduction rate of 89.1% and 96.7%, when in contact with two species of bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae, respectively, while the antibacterial effect of green NCC was faint. To investigate the antibacterial mechanism of NCCs, pigments have been extracted from NCC fibers for further determination of their antibacterial activity using the disk diffusion method, and the chemical nature of extracted pigments was also analyzed. The results are as follows: the pigment from brown cotton fibers showed significant inhibition against the two challenge bacteria, while the resistance capacity of the pigment from green cotton fiber was insignificant, indicating that the antibacterial efficacy of NCC fibers was highly related to the chemical nature of the pigment. Diagnostic results indicated that the pigment from brown cotton belonged to condensed tannins, and the pigment from green cotton fiber was identified as flavonoids. The effect of high-temperature treatment on antibacterial activity of the pigment extracted from brown cotton was also examined. It showed that the general textile high-temperature curing conditions decrease its antibacterial activity, but the antibacterial activity still has a satisfactory retention, indicating a durable natural antibacterial performance of brown NCC to the high-temperature curing technology.
A study of an embeddable and locatable spinning system via quasi-static mechanical analysis
Authors: Wang Hongshan , Xia Zhigang , Xu Weilin
Published: September 2012

In this study, a quasi-static model is built to theoretically analyze the distribution of twists and spinning tension in embeddable and locatable spun (ELS) yarn formation zone. Important equations are also derived to determine inner mechanics and external configurations of the ELS yarn formation zones 1, 2 and 3. Analysis results demonstrate that in zones 1 and 2 the tension distribution on the filament and staple strand is directly proportional to their linear mass and square of delivery speed; the larger weight causes a smaller angle between the responding component and the composite strand axis line. The angle between the composite strands 1 and 2 can be simply calculated by dividing the composite yarn velocity by composite strand velocity. Online photographs are provided to validate theoretical analysis of the ELS yarn formation zone configuration and twist distribution in zones 1 and 2.
Influence of polypropylene fibers on preparation and performance of Fe-modified PAN/PP blended yarns and their knitted fabrics
Authors: Han Yujie , Dong Yongchun , Ding Zhizhong , Liu Chunyan
Published: September 2012

Five blended yarns were spun with polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fibers and polypropylene (PP) fibers at different blending ratios, and then knitted into fabrics. The obtained blended yarns or knitted fabrics were modified using successive amidoximation and coordination with Fe3+ ions to prepare the Fe-modified PAN/PP blended yarns or knitted fabrics. They were used as the heterogeneous Fenton catalysts for the degradation of a typical azo dye, Reactive Red 195, to investigate the effect of fiber blending ratio on the modification, as well as mechanic and catalytic performance. The results indicated that increasing PP fiber content led to a linear increase in the conversion degree of cyano groups to amidoxime groups and Fe content fixed on the surface of PAN fibers in the blend yarn or fabric. PP fibers showed a significant effect on the breaking strength and elongation at break of the blended yarn, and a critical PP fiber content was found to obtain minimum values for strength and elongation. This is due mainly to a large difference in extensibility between the two fibers. The strength and elongation of the obtained knitted fabric were greatly improved by the addition of PP fibers. On the other hand, the blended yarns and knitted fabrics with higher PP fiber content exhibited comparatively stronger catalytic activity.
Decolorization of different reactive dye wastewaters by O3 and O3/ultrasound alternatives depending on different working parameters
Authors: Sancar Burcu , Balci Onur
Published: September 2012

The removal of the color of dye from wastewaters is one of the main problems of the textile industry for both colorists and manufacturers. In this study, ozone gas was used to decolorize the reactive dye effluents. Nine commercial dyes were used for preparing the reactive dye effluents. These dyes have different three anchors (monochlorotriazine, vinylsulphone, monochlorotriazine-vinylsulphone) and three chromophore groups (monoazo, diazo, azo-cu). Thus, in this study, the effect of ozone treatments was investigated on the decolorization efficiency of dyes having different chromophore and anchor groups. In addition, the effect of ozone on the decolorization efficiency depending on the presence of ultrasound energy and dyeing auxiliaries was studied. The results showed that ozonation treatment was an effective method for the decolorization of reactive dye effluents and, generally, the presence of ultrasound had generally positive effect on the efficiency of decolorization.
Research on computer-aided analysis and reverse reconstruction for the weave pattern of fabric
Authors: Zhong Ping , Ye Tao , Shi Yunlong , Tu Xinxing
Published: September 2012

This paper proposes a method to realize computer-aided analysis and reverse reconstruction for the weave pattern of fabric. Firstly, a double-face imaging system is designed to get the redundant image information used to correct node classification, and then the image gridding processing is realized by using the projection algorithm in the warp and weft directions. The grid node color was determined by the color clustering method. Then the attributes and classification of the grid nodes are determined by the analysis of the edge strength information. The correction of node classification is realized with the information of adjacent nodes and the color of the double surface image of the corresponding fabric region. After that, the acquired nodes were encoded with 0 and 1, and then converted into a digital matrix; the basic weave structure matrix of the fabric was derived by matrix transformations. In the meantime, two one-dimensional row and column matrices and a color mapping table are adopted to represent the warp and weft yarn color array. On the basis of the above, the digital files of the woven pattern of sample fabric are established. Finally, the model of the fabric weave pattern can be obtained by the reverse reconstruction method and the automatic recognition of the fabric weave pattern is realized. Through comparison of the original fabric sample image with the reconstructed weave pattern model, it is proved that the proposed method is effective.
Quality and uniformity control of fiber web by roller card system. Part I: dynamic modeling formulation and experimental identification
Authors: Kuo Chung-Feng Jeffrey , Vu Huy Quang , Chou Yu-Chung , Li Yu-Ching
Published: September 2012

This paper focuses on the uniformity of fiber web output by roller cards, because control of uniform carded fiber webs becomes very important when we want faster and more accurate textile spinning. It will theoretically build the model of the dynamic system, and experimentally verifies the model with an implemented sensor. The system analysis, according to working properties and the active region, is divided into three parts: feed input, main carding, and doffer output. The system input is the mass flow rate of the fiber web per unit area. Firstly, the mathematical model of fibers at the main carding will be obtained, and then the mathematical models of the mass flow rate of fiber web at the input and output will be deduced. The mathematical model of the entire roller card system is finally derived by integrating the aforementioned three parts. The computer simulation confirms that the roller card is a stable system, as was shown in the real system. In the experimental verification, this paper measures the output of fiber web at the doffer with an infrared ray sensor, finds the relationship between the sense signals and mass flow rate of the fiber web, and compares the simulated output of the mathematical model with actual output, in order to verify the accuracy of the theoretical modeling of this system. This theoretic model of the roller card system will be used to control the quality and uniformity of the fiber web, as shown in the subsequent parts of this series of papers.
Creating a Culture of Good Writing
Authors: Ciabattari Teresa
Published: September 2012

Following American Sociological Association’s recommendations for a cumulative curriculum in sociology, sociology faculty at Pacific Lutheran University created cumulative writing competencies to integrate writing into the curriculum on a department level. In this article, I explore the rationale for this programmatic approach to writing, describe the process by which we developed cumulative writing competencies in our major, discuss implementation, and describe our plans for assessment. The writing competencies emphasize that good writing is about more than good grammar; it also requires clear and complex thinking. This model of writing instruction offers students an opportunity to develop their writing skills in a sequential, intentional, discipline-specific way.
Immigrant journalism, ideology and the production of transnational media spaces
Authors: Shumow Moses
Published: September 2012

Since the election of Hugo Chávez in 1999 and the subsequent growth of Venezuelan immigration to the United States, there has been an explosion of Venezuelan media in South Florida. These media are focused on local issues confronting this expanding immigrant community. However, the mediated communication being produced among its members is also transnational in scope; events taking place in Venezuela heavily inform the content of these outlets. This research analyses 34 interviews with Venezuelan journalists in South Florida in order to further our understanding of the production of immigrant media within a transnational context. The results point to a hybrid form of journalism, one that draws on cultural background and national identity while also relying on ideology and connections to fellow immigrants. The outcome appears to be the production of transnational media spaces that represent new directions for the study of diasporic communication and the formation of transnational networks.
Is graffiti risky? Insights from the internet and newspapers
Authors: Ten Eyck Toby A , Fischer Brette E
Published: September 2012

The act of creating graffiti is often perceived as being tied to risks, such as arrest or becoming a target for rival gangs. While graffiti writers seem aware of these risks, some use graffiti to send messages about issues such as race relations, governmental oppression, and war, while others see graffiti as an art form similar to painting on a traditional canvas. Using Lash’s work on aesthetic reflexivity within a risk model framework, we investigate internet images and newspaper accounts of graffiti to highlight the gap between the aesthetics of graffiti writing and the accounts of those who hold positions of power within structures such as city offices and police departments. This gap makes it difficult to distinguish between graffiti that is meant to enliven an area and graffiti that is used to promote violence.
The power of the unseen: environmental conflict, the media and invisibility
Authors: Lester Libby , Hutchins Brett
Published: September 2012

This article critically revisits the operation of ‘mediated visibility’ in the context of environmental conflict. Challenger groups have long gained access to news media and influenced political decision-makers by staging highly visible protest events that draw public attention to environmental threats and destruction. The advent of the world-wide web and digital media tools has since added to the tactical arsenal available to groups wanting to infiltrate and disrupt government and corporate networks of power. In turn, governments and corporations deploy these same tools to maintain their reputation and check opponents who oppose their activities. These developments have, we argue, produced a significant flow-on effect. The function of invisibility – or the coordinated avoidance of media communication, attention and respresentation in order to achieve political and/or social ends – is an under-examined feature of contemporary environmental politics. The case study and evidence presented here are drawn from fieldwork conducted in the Australian island state of Tasmania, and extensive content analysis of news media, social networking platforms and websites.
The Contribution of Psychoanalysis to Organization Studies and Management: An Overview
Authors: Arnaud Gilles
Published: September 2012

A prolific current of research focusing on the psychodynamics of work, leadership and organizations has taken form over approximately the last 60 years. The richness of this current remains in full evidence today and shows the interest of applying psychoanalysis to research work on management. First, psychoanalysis can aid researchers to develop a more profound comprehension of organizational functioning by taking into account the effects of the unconscious. Second, it can guide them in different fields of intervention by transposing aspects of the analytical treatment and integrating transference. Last, it can allow them to re-question managerial ends from a slightly ‘askew’ point of view informed by psychoanalytic ethics and recognition of the ‘subject’. This review article aims at examining these issues and offering psychoanalytic theory as a paradigm for the study of management.
The Unwanted Self: Projective Identification in Leaders’ Identity Work
Authors: Petriglieri Gianpiero , Stein Mark
Published: September 2012

This paper employs a psychodynamic perspective to examine the development and maintenance of a leader’s identity, building on the premise that such identity work involves both conscious and unconscious processes. We focus on the latter by suggesting that those in coveted leadership roles may engage in projective identification to shape and sustain an identity befitting those roles. Projective identification is the unconscious projection of unwanted aspects of one’s self into others, leading to the bolstering of a conscious self-view concordant with one’s role requirements. Recipients of a leader’s projections may manage these by projecting them back into the leader or into third parties, which may lead to ongoing conflict and the creation of a toxic culture. We use examples from the Gucci family business to illustrate this process.
Quantifying Glenoid Bone Loss in Anterior Shoulder Instability
Authors: Bois Aaron J. , Fening Stephen D. , Polster Josh , Jones Morgan H. , Miniaci Anthony
Published: September 2012

Background:

Glenoid support is critical for stability of the glenohumeral joint. An accepted noninvasive method of quantifying glenoid bone loss does not exist.

Purpose:

To perform independent evaluations of the reliability and accuracy of standard 2-dimensional (2-D) and 3-dimensional (3-D) computed tomography (CT) measurements of glenoid bone deficiency.

Study Design:

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods:

Two sawbone models were used; one served as a model for 2 anterior glenoid defects and the other for 2 anteroinferior defects. For each scapular model, predefect and defect data were collected for a total of 6 data sets. Each sample underwent 3-D laser scanning followed by CT scanning. Six physicians measured linear indicators of bone loss (defect length and width-to-length ratio) on both 2-D and 3-D CT and quantified bone loss using the glenoid index method on 2-D CT and using the glenoid index, ratio, and Pico methods on 3-D CT. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to assess agreement, and percentage error was used to compare radiographic and true measurements.

Results:

With use of 2-D CT, the glenoid index and defect length measurements had the least percentage error (−4.13% and 7.68%, respectively); agreement was very good (ICC, .81) for defect length only. With use of 3-D CT, defect length (0.29%) and the Pico1 method (4.93%) had the least percentage error. Agreement was very good for all linear indicators of bone loss (range, .85-.90) and for the ratio linear and Pico surface area methods used to quantify bone loss (range, .84-.98). Overall, 3-D CT results demonstrated better agreement and accuracy compared to 2-D CT.

Conclusion:

None of the methods assessed in this study using 2-D CT was found to be valid, and therefore, 2-D CT is not recommended for these methods. However, the length of glenoid defects can be reliably and accurately measured on 3-D CT. The Pico and ratio techniques are most reliable; however, the Pico1 method accurately quantifies glenoid bone loss in both the anterior and anteroinferior locations. Future work is required to implement valid imaging techniques of glenoid bone loss into clinical practice.

Clinical Relevance:

This is one of the only studies to date that has investigated both the reliability and accuracy of multiple indicators and quantification methods that evaluate glenoid bone loss in anterior glenohumeral instability. These data are critical to ensure valid methods are used for preoperative assessment and to determine when a glenoid bone augmentation procedure is indicated.
Adaptive predictive control of input-delay motor systems enhanced with supervisory strategies
Authors: Tsai Zhi-Ren , Hwang Jiing-Dong
Published: September 2012

The adaptive predictive controller design for the problem of input delay based on the Lyapunov approach is discussed in the present paper. The main problem of designing a predictive controller is to determine the values of control gains and to compensate for the effect of input delay for the predictable state. We first propose a novel predictive controller called the adaptive predictive controller and use it in place of the traditional adaptive controller used in the nonlinear control system without any input delay. Second, we adopt a simplex algorithm that can search the optimal timing for a prediction to compensate for the effect of input delay. In the meantime, we use the techniques of neural network predictive model and direct adaptive scheme to design the adaptive predictive controller for some class of nonlinear systems with input delay. To enhance the input-delay systems, stability to the size of input delay, a supervised control scheme and an adaptive predictive controller of unknown nonlinear systems with input delay are proposed. The supervised adaptive control law aims to pull the states back to the pre-specified state region and reduce the overshoot towards an extra stabilizing input. Finally, some computer simulation results are provided to illustrate the proposed methods.
H∞ control for a class of discrete-time switched systems with state constraints
Authors: Su Qingyu , Zhao Jun
Published: September 2012

This article investigates the H∞ control problem for a class of discrete-time switched systems with state constraints. The state constraints are converted into state saturations by limiting the state in a unit hypercube. An improved average dwell time method is presented to take into account different decay rates of a Lyapunov function related to an active subsystem according to whether the saturations occur or not. Switched state feedback controllers are designed such that the closed-loop switched system subjects to state constraints is asymptotically stable and achieves a weighted L2-gain. Sufficient conditions for H∞ control of the switched system with state constraints are first derived. An application to a longitudinal motion of highly maneuverable aircraft technology vehicle is given to illustrate the applicability and the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Antioxidative and cytoprotective effects of andrographolide against CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity in HepG2 cells
Authors: Krithika R , Verma RJ , Shrivastav PS
Published: September 2012

This article describes antioxidative and cytoprotective property of andrographolide, a major active component of the plant Andrographis paniculata ( A. paniculata). High yields (2.7%) of andrographolide was isolated from the aerial parts of this plant via silica column chromatography. The purity of the compound was determined by high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) and reversed phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis. The structure was elucidated using techniques such as UV-visible spectrophotometry, elemental analysis, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR), 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (13C NMR) and mass spectral analysis and the data obtained were comparable with reported results. It was observed that andrographolide exhibited significant antioxidative property (IC50 = 3.2 µg/ml) by its ability to scavenge a stable free radical 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) as compared to known antioxidants like ascorbic acid, butylated hydroxy toluene (BHT) and the plant extract. The cytoprotective role of andrographolide against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) toxicity in human hepatoma HepG2 cell line was assessed using trypan blue exclusion test, 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, by estimation of various leakage enzymes and by measuring the glutathione levels. The recovery obtained for andrographolide treatment in the presence of CCl4 was two-fold compared to A. paniculata extract for all other related biochemical parameters investigated. The results of the study indicate that andrographolide is a potent inhibitor of CCl4-mediated lipid peroxidation.
The effects of α-tocopherol on oxidative damage and serum levels of Clara cell protein 16 in aspiration pneumonitis induced by bile acids
Authors: Alaçam H , Karlı R , Alıcı Ö , Avcı B , Güzel A , Kozan A , Mertoğlu C , Murat N , Şalış O , Güzel A , Şahin M
Published: September 2012

Our aim in this study is to examine the effects of α-tocopherol (AT) on rats with aspiration pneumonitis induced with bile acids (BAs). The animals were divided in to four groups, namely saline group ( n = 7), saline + AT group ( n = 7), BA group ( n = 7), and BA + AT group ( n = 7). Saline and BA groups aspirated intratracheally with 1 ml/kg saline and 1 ml/kg bile acids, respectively. AT was given at 20 mg/kg/day dosage for 7 days to the groups. AT group was given 20 mg/kg/day AT for 7 days. Malondialdehyde (MDA), Clara cell protein 16 (CC-16), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), as well as peribronchial inflammatory cell infiltration, alveolar septal infiltration, alveolar edema, alveolar exudate, alveolar histiocytes, and necrosis were evaluated. The CAT activity of the BA group was significantly lower than the saline group. In the BA + AT group, there was a significant increase in SOD and CAT activities when compared with that of the BA group. The CC-16 and MDA contents in the BA group were significantly higher than in the saline group. The CC-16 and MDA levels of the BA + AT group were significantly lower than BA group. Histopathologic changes were seen in BA group, and there was a significant decrease in the BA + AT group. In conclusion, AT might be beneficial in the treatment of aspiration pneumonitis induced by BAs because AT decreased oxidative damage and resulted in a decrease in CC-16 levels.
A case of methanol intoxication caused by methomyl pesticide ingestion
Authors: Gil HW , Hong JR , Song HY , Hong SY
Published: September 2012

When clinicians treat patients with pesticide poisoning, they often pay attention only to the chief toxic agent and ignore the toxicity of the pesticide’s additives or solvents. Occasionally, however, a solvent (e.g. methanol) may itself be the cause of poisoning. We report a case of acute methanol intoxication that occurred after ingestion of a methomyl pesticide that contained methanol as an additive. A 49-year-old man was brought to the emergency department in an unconscious state after ingestion of 20 ml of a carbamate pesticide (chief ingredient: methomyl; active ingredient: methanol). Upon arrival, he was semicomatose and did not breathe spontaneously; however, his cholinesterase level was within normal limits and cholinergic symptoms were not observed. High anion gap metabolic acidosis was present. His blood ethanol level was 74.8 mg/dL. The urine methanol level was 55.60 mg/dL, and urine ethanol level was 22.0 mg/dL. He was treated with hemodialysis; subsequently, his metabolic acidosis resolved and he returned to normal mental status. We guessed that methanol, as the solvent of the methomyl, had produced the symptoms. When treating pesticide-poisoned patients, clinicians should identify the solvent used in the pesticide, because solvents such as methanol may exacerbate the symptoms of poisoned patients.
Mental health, service use and social capital among Indian-Australians: findings of a wellbeing survey
Authors: Maheshwari Rajesh , Steel Zachary
Published: September 2012

Objective:

Indian-Australians represent a distinct immigrant group both demographically and culturally. Yet, despite an expanding body of research on transcultural mental health in Australia, there is a paucity of studies regarding mental health of Indian-Australians. This paper explores the extent of psychological morbidity and related service use in a representative sample of Indian-Australians. It further examines the association of mental health with social participation and networking in this ethnic community.

Method:

Measures to assess current levels of psychological distress, functional disability, service use, and social capital were administered in a random sample of 71 Indian-Australian family groups living in Sydney.

Results:

Amongst participants, 15% reported high to very high levels of psychological distress. Psychological distress was associated with increased days of functional disability and higher levels of functional impairment, and an increased likelihood of a GP consultation. However, 91% of participants with identifiable mental health needs did not seek any mental health consultation. Social capital was not found to be a significant predictor of psychological health or service use in this sample.

Conclusion:

Psychological morbidity in the Indian-Australian community is associated with high levels of functional disability, both in number of days and extent of severity, but only a small proportion seeks mental health help.
Evaluation of serum cobalamin concentrations in dogs of 164 dog breeds (2006–2010)
Authors: Grützner Niels , Cranford Shannon M. , Norby Bo , Suchodolski Jan S. , Steiner Jörg M.
Published: September 2012

Altered serum cobalamin concentrations have been observed in dogs with gastrointestinal disorders such as exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) or gastrointestinal inflammation. The aims of the current study were 1) to identify breeds with a higher proportion of dogs with a decreased serum cobalamin concentration, 2) to determine whether dogs with such decreased concentrations tend to have serum canine trypsin-like immunoreactivity (cTLI) concentrations diagnostic for EPI, and 3) to compare the number of submissions for serum cobalamin analysis by breed to the American Kennel Club (AKC) breed ranking list of 2009. In this retrospective study, results of 28,675 cobalamin tests were reviewed. Akitas, Chinese Shar-Peis, German Shepherd Dogs, Greyhounds, and Labrador Retrievers had increased proportions of serum cobalamin concentrations below the lower limit of the reference interval (<251 ng/l; all P < 0.0001). Akitas, Chinese Shar-Peis, German Shepherd Dogs, and Border Collies had increased proportions of serum cobalamin concentrations below the detection limit of the assay (<150 ng/l; all P < 0.0001). Akitas, Border Collies, and German Shepherd Dogs with serum cobalamin concentrations <150 ng/l were more likely to have a serum cTLI concentration considered diagnostic for EPI (≤2.5 µg/l; all P ≤ 0.001). The breed with the highest proportion of samples submitted for serum cobalamin analysis in comparison with the AKC ranking list was the Greyhound (odds ratio: 84.6; P < 0.0001). In Akitas and Border Collies, further investigations are warranted to clarify if a potentially breed-specific gastrointestinal disorder is responsible for the increased frequency of decreased serum cobalamin and cTLI concentrations.
The occurrence of Bovine viral diarrhea virus in hunter-harvested white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) in the state of Georgia, southeastern United States
Authors: Ilha Marcia R. S. , Coarsey Michele , Whittington Lisa , Rajeev Sreekumari , Ramamoorthy Sheela
Published: September 2012

The prevalence of Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) in free-ranging white-tailed deer (WTD, Odocoileus virginianus) in the state of Georgia was evaluated using ear notches collected from hunter-harvested deer during the hunting season of 2010–2011. From September to December 2010, 367 ear samples from WTD were collected from 37 counties in Georgia. The samples were from 178 (48.5%) female deer, 187 (51%) male deer, and 2 (0.5%) of unknown sex. The age of the animals varied from 6 months to 6.5 years. The age was not recorded in 34 animals (9.3%). Of the animals with known ages, 42% were under 2 years. Screening of 367 samples for BVDV using an antigen-capture enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (AgELISA) resulted in 364 negative samples and 3 suspect samples. The 3 suspect samples were negative for BVDV reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), virus isolation, and immunohistochemistry. A subpopulation of samples ( n = 89) selected from various geographical regions also tested negative for BVDV RT-PCR. In conclusion, although a few of the samples were suspect for the presence of BVDV by AgELISA, the presence of the virus within the deer population studied could not be confirmed further.
Attitudes of Medical Oncologists in Qatar Toward Palliative Care
Authors: Zeinah Ghaith F. Abu , Al-Kindi Sadeer G. , Hassan Azza Adel
Published: September 2012

Objectives:

The first and only palliative care (PC) unit in Qatar was established in 2008 to serve adult patients with cancer. As PC was only recently introduced to oncology practice in Qatar and the region, raising awareness among physicians is crucial. This survey study is designed to outline the level of awareness and knowledge of oncologists in Qatar toward PC.

Methods:

In this cross-sectional survey study, copies of a self-constructed questionnaire were distributed to 49 physicians at the National Center for Cancer Care and Research in Qatar during January 2012 and collected for data analysis.

Results:

The physician response rate was 100%. Less than half of the responders (36.7%) had official training in PC, but the majority (89.8%) showed interest in the field. Only 57.8% of the physicians reported self-competence in providing good PC to the dying patient. On the other hand, up to 69.4% are aware of the guidelines for pain relief and 58.7% apply them in their clinical practice. The concept of PC hospice was familiar to 77.1% of participants. On one hand, 85.7% of the physicians advocated that every medical center should have PC service, while up to 70.8% preferred that patients with short survival expectancy die in the community, rather than in a hospital setting.

Conclusions:

There is relatively good awareness and knowledge among health care providers specialized in cancer treatment in our hospital, despite the lack of formal training. Further training and informative sessions are required to raise awareness among oncologists and encourage utilization of PC services and thus optimize patient accessibility to PC.