bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ParamagneticGd2O3Nanoparticle-Based Targeting Theranostic Agent for C6 Rat Glioma Cell
Authors: Hong Seong-Pyo , Kang Seong Hee , Kim Do Kyung , Kang Bo Sun
Published: April 2016

This study aimed to synthesize theranostic agent targeting C6 rat glioma cell, which was based on the dextran coated paramagnetic gadolinium oxide nanoparticles (D-PGONs) conjugated with folic acid (FA) or paclitaxel (PTX). The D-PGONs were synthesized by thein situcoprecipitation method, and the average value of the size distribution was 2.9 nm. FTIR spectroscopy was fulfilled to confirm the conjugations of FA or PTX with D-PGONs. The bioprotective effects of dextran coating and chemotherapeutic effect of PTX in the C6 glioma cell were evaluated by the MTT assay. The differences in uptakes between the synthesized theranostic agents into C6 cells were observed by confocal laser scanning microscopy. In addition, the magnetic contrast enhancement with different concentration of the synthesized agent was compared by theT1-weighted MRI imaging. It was experimentally shown that the synthesized theranostic agent targets C6 cells due to the ligand-receptor-mediated endocytosis and provides enhancement in MR contrast depending on the concentration due to the paramagnetic property of gadolinium nanoparticle. In addition, it was shown by the results of MTT assay that the synthesized nanocomposites were more effective in reducing cell viability than bare gadolinium nanoparticles. In conclusion, it was shown that FA and PTX conjugated D-PGONs could be used as the theranostic agent with paramagnetism and chemotherapeutic property.
Analytical Redundancy Design for Aeroengine Sensor Fault Diagnostics Based on SROS-ELM
Authors: Zhou Jun , Liu Yuan , Zhang Tianhong
Published: April 2016

Analytical redundancy technique is of great importance to guarantee the reliability and safety of aircraft engine system. In this paper, a machine learning based aeroengine sensor analytical redundancy technique is developed and verified through hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulation. The modified online sequential extreme learning machine, selective updating regularized online sequential extreme learning machine (SROS-ELM), is employed to train the model online and estimate sensor measurements. It selectively updates the output weights of neural networks according to the prediction accuracy and the norm of output weight vector, tackles the problems of singularity and ill-posedness by regularization, and adopts a dual activation function in the hidden nodes combing neural and wavelet theory to enhance prediction capability. The experimental results verify the good generalization performance of SROS-ELM and show that the developed analytical redundancy technique for aeroengine sensor fault diagnosis based on SROS-ELM is effective and feasible.
A Moving Source Localization Method for Distributed Passive Sensor Using TDOA and FDOA Measurements
Authors: Liu Zhixin , Zhao Yongjun , Hu Dexiu , Liu Chengcheng
Published: April 2016

The conventional moving source localization methods are based on centralized sensors. This paper presents a moving source localization method for distributed passive sensors using TDOA and FDOA measurements. The novel method firstly uses the steepest descent algorithm to obtain a proper initial value of source position and velocity. Then, the coarse location estimation is obtained by maximum likelihood estimation (MLE). Finally, more accurate location estimation is achieved by subtracting theoretical bias, which is approximated by the actual bias using the estimated source location and noisy data measurement. Both theoretical analysis and simulations show that the theoretical bias always meets the actual bias when the noise level is small, and the proposed method can reduce the bias effectively while keeping the same root mean square error (RMSE) with the original MLE and Taylor-series method. Meanwhile, it is less sensitive to the initial guess and attains the CRLB under Gaussian TDOA and FDOA noise at a moderate noise level before the thresholding effect occurs.
The Relationship between the Heat Disorder Incidence Rate and Heat Stress Indices at Yamanashi Prefecture in Japan
Authors: Akatsuka Shin , Uno Tadashi , Horiuchi Masahiro
Published: April 2016

In recent years, the risk of heat disorder in daily life has increased dramatically because the thermal environment has been deteriorating. The main objective of this study was to examine regional differences in the relationship between heat disorder incidence rate and heat stress indices at Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan. Daily maximum air temperature and daily maximum WBGT were used as heat stress indices in each region. Nonlinear regression analysis was used to examine the regional difference in the relationship between the heat disorder incidence rate and heat stress indices in each region. The heat disorder incidence rate was correlated with both indices of heat stress in all regions. However, the more appropriate heat stress index for heat disorder prevention differed among regions. The distributions of heat stress indices, such as the slope of regression curve and the temperature threshold, differed in each region, irrespective of the index used. Therefore, the criteria for thermal conditions for heat disorder prevention need to be determined for each region, considering the regional characteristics of the relationship between the heat disorder incidence rate and heat stress indices.
Frequency and Time Domain Analysis of Foetal Heart Rate Variability with Traditional Indexes: A Critical Survey
Authors: Romano Maria , Iuppariello Luigi , Ponsiglione Alfonso Maria , Improta Giovanni , Bifulco Paolo , Cesarelli Mario
Published: April 2016

Monitoring of foetal heart rate and its variability (FHRV) covers an important role in assessing health of foetus. Many analysis methods have been used to get quantitative measures of FHRV. FHRV has been studied in time and in frequency domain and interesting clinical results have been obtained. Nevertheless, a standardized definition of FHRV and a precise methodology to be used for its evaluation are lacking. We carried out a literature overview about both frequency domain analysis (FDA) and time domain analysis (TDA). Then, by using simulated FHR signals, we defined the methodology for FDA. Further, employing more than 400 real FHR signals, we analysed some of the most common indexes, Short Term Variability for TDA and power content of the spectrum bands and sympathovagal balance for FDA, and evaluated their ranges of values, which in many cases are a novelty. Finally, we verified the relationship between these indexes and two important parameters: week of gestation, indicator of foetal growth, and foetal state, classified as active or at rest. Our results indicate that, according to literature, it is necessary to standardize the procedure for FHRV evaluation and to consider week of gestation and foetal state before FHR analysis.
The Impact of Alternative Payment Models on Oncology Innovation and Patient Care
Authors: Miller Amy M. , Omenn Gilbert S. , Kean Marcia A.
Published: April 2016

Oncology care is in a time of major transformation. Scientific discovery is driving breakthroughs in prevention, diagnostics, and treatment, resulting in tremendous gains for patients as the number of cancer survivors continues to grow on an annual basis. At the same time, there is mounting pressure across the healthcare system to contain costs while improving the quality of cancer care. In response to this pressure, private and government payers are increasingly turning to tools such as alternative payment models (APM) and clinical pathways to improve the efficiency of care, inform coverage decisions, and support shared decision-making. As APMs, clinical pathways and other tools are utilized more broadly, it will be critical that these models support the evidence-based use of innovative biomedical advances, including personalized medicine, and deliver patient-centered, high-value care. Clin Cancer Res; 22(10); 2335–41. ©2016 AACR.
Molecular Characteristics and Clinical Significance of 12 Fusion Genes in Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia: A Systematic Review
Authors: Yan Wenzhe , Zhang Guangsen
Published: April 2016

Acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) is characterized by the generation of the promyelocytic leukemia-retinoic acid (RA) receptor α (PML-RARα) fusion gene. PML-RARα is the central leukemia-initiating event in APL and is directly targeted by all-trans-RA (ATRA) as well as arsenic. In classic APL harboring PML-RARα transcripts, more than 90% of patients can achieve complete remission when treated with ATRA combined with arsenic trioxide chemotherapy. In the last 20 years, more than 10 variant fusion genes have been found and identified in APL patients. These variant APL cases present different clinical phenotypes and treatment outcomes. All variant APL cases show a similar breakpoint within the RARα gene, whereas its partner genes are variable. These fusion proteins have the ability to repress rather than activate retinoic targets. These chimeric proteins also possess different molecular characteristics, thereby resulting in variable sensitivities to ATRA and clinical outcomes. In this review, we comprehensively analyze various rearrangements in variant APL cases that have been reported in the literature as well as the molecular characteristics and functions of the fusion proteins derived from different RARα partner genes and their clinical implications.
A Dextral Primary Progressive Aphasia Patient with Right Dominant Hypometabolism and Tau Accumulation and Left Dominant Amyloid Accumulation
Authors: Jang Young Kyoung , Park Seongbeom , Kim Hee Jin , Cho Hanna , Lyoo Chul Hyoung , Seo Sang Won , Na Duk L.
Published: April 2016

Background: Primary progressive aphasia (PPA) is a degenerative disease that presents as progressive decline of language ability with preservation of other cognitive functions in the early stages. Three subtypes of PPA are known: progressive nonfluent aphasia, semantic dementia, and logopenic aphasia (LPA). Patients and Methods: We report the case of a 77-year-old patient with PPA whose clinical findings did not correspond to the three subtypes but mainly fit LPA. Unlike other LPA patients, however, this patient showed a right hemisphere predominant glucose hypometabolism and tau accumulation and a left hemisphere predominant amyloid deposition. The right-handed patient presented with comprehension difficulty followed by problems naming familiar objects. This isolated language problem had deteriorated rapidly for 2 years, followed by memory difficulties and impairment of daily activities. Using a Korean version of the Western Aphasia Battery, aphasia was consistent with a severe form of Wernicke's aphasia. According to the brain magnetic resonance imaging and 18F-fludeoxyglucose positron emission tomography results, right hemisphere atrophy and hypometabolism, more predominant on the right hemisphere than the left, were apparent despite the fact that Edinburgh Handedness Questionnaire scores indicated strong right-handedness. On Pittsburgh compound B-PET, amyloid accumulation was asymmetrical with the left hemisphere being more predominant than the right, whereas 18F-T807-PET showed a right dominant tau accumulation. Conclusions: This is the first report of atypical PPA, in which the patient exhibited crossed aphasia and asymmetrical amyloid accumulation.
Prolonged Mean Transit Time Detected by Dynamic Susceptibility Contrast Magnetic Resonance Imaging Predicts Cerebrovascular Reserve Impairment in Patients with Moyamoya Disease
Authors: Kawano Takayuki , Ohmori Yuki , Kaku Yasuyuki , Muta Daisuke , Uekawa Ken , Nakagawa Takashi , Amadatsu Toshihiro , Kasamo Daiki , Shiraishi Shinya , Kitajima Mika , Kuratsu Jun-ichi
Published: April 2016

Background: Evaluating cerebrovascular reserve (CVR) is important for patients with moyamoya disease (MMD). 123I-iodoamphetamine single-photon emission CT (SPECT) with acetazolamide (ACZ) challenge is widely carried out, but using ACZ becomes problematic owing to its off-label use and its adverse effects. Here, we report the efficacy of dynamic susceptibility contrast MRI (DSC-MRI) for the evaluation of CVR in MMD patients. Methods: All 33 MMD patients underwent both SPECT and DSC-MRI at an interval of <10 days from each other (mean age 38.3 years). The region of interest (ROI) was the anterior cerebral artery (ACA) territory, middle cerebral artery (MCA) territory, basal ganglia and cerebellum hemisphere for cerebral blood flow (CBF), cerebral blood volume (CBV) and mean transit time (MTT) images. The ratios of the ROIs to the ipsilateral cerebellum were calculated for each parameter and evaluated. The CVR was calculated using images acquired by SPECT before and after ACZ administration. The ratios of DSC-MRI parameters and CVR were compared and evaluated for each ROI. Results: The MTT of the ACA and MCA territories significantly correlated with CVR (p < 0.0001). However, CBF and CBV had no correlation with CVR. The MTT ratio had a threshold of 1.966, with a sensitivity of 68.4% and a specificity of 91.5% for predicting decreased CVR (<10%). Conclusion: MTT had a negative correlation with CVR. DSC-MRI is easy, safe and useful for detecting decreased CVR and can be used as a standard examination in MMD patient's care.
Optimal operation of Low Cost Topology for Improving the Power Quality in the Wind Power Conversion System
Authors: Vani E , Rengarajan N
Published: April 2016

In this paper, Vienna rectifier and Z Source Inverter (ZSI) based Wind Power Conversion System (WPCS) has been proposed with less number of switches to provide high quality power to off grid system.  The three phase full bridge converter has six switches for the conversion of AC-DC and also need separate DC-DC boost converter to boost the DC voltage. In the proposed WPCS, three Phase Vienna rectifier has only three switches for the conversion of AC-DC and also it boosts the DC voltage. The ZSI jointly with Vienna rectifier provides higher, boosted AC voltage and high quality power to the off grid system. The ZSI utilizes the shoot-through states to boost the DC link voltage and also, reduces the Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) noise. The combination of Vienna rectifier and Z source inverter shows the good performance which improves the efficiency and reduces Total Harmonic Distortion (THD). The performance of the proposed system is simulated using MATLAB/Simulink software. Simulation and experimental results expose that, this configuration is beneficial with respect to power quality improvement with less number of switches compared to a conventional converter.
Advanced Optimal for Power-Electronic Systems for the Grid Integration of Energy Sources
Authors: Shneen Salam Waley
Published: April 2016

Renewable and clean energies like a photovoltaic (PV) energy and wind energy (WE), they can contribute in decreasing the electric energy cost. Energy storage is necessary in PV and WE hybrid system with the variable nature. A hybrid system (PV, WE and diesel), it uses the aim of minimizing the total cost and ensuring the energy available. In this paper, the modeling and cost analysis of a hybrid system (PV, WE and diesel) considering three types systems: First, diesel with a hybrid system. Second, diesel and battery with a hybrid system. Third, grid, battery and hybrid system. In comparison to all types, for cost analysis, a mathematical model have introduced for each type. There are two parts of this work. First by Homer software, it has been used to find the system feasibility and conduct the economic analysis. Second by Matlab simulation, this paper includes status of grid integration in one day through twenty four. The power generation by wind turbine, the change of wind speed which effect on values of power generation. The power generation by solar cell, the change of temperature and radiation which effect in values of power generation.
Comparison Methods for Converting a Spindle Plant to Discrete System
Authors: Khairudin M.
Published: April 2016

This study presents comparison methods in the conversion of a spindle plant in order to obtain an accurate discrete system when compared to a continuous system of spindle.  The accurate conversion results of the continuous system into discrete form are required for implementing the control system of spindle. Comparison methods that will be conducted to convert  the  continuous system of spindle plant into discrete system through zero-order hold (ZOH), first-order hold (FOH), impulse invariant dicretisation, tustin (bilinear), and pole-zero matching methods. The performances of each method in the conversion process have been presented. Conversion performances of continous spindle plant into discrete form using FOH method, showed more accurate compared to other methods. Performances of the conversion accuracy of FOH method have been evaluated in terms of transient responses analysis that closed similar results with a continuous system of spindle plant. At the closed similar transient responses for the discrete system using FOH method show the final value, time to peak, percertages overshoot and setlling time are 0.863 v, 0.910 s, 0 % and 0.550 s respectively.
Real-Time Automatic Obstacle Detection and Alert System for Driver Assistance on Indian Roads
Authors: Sharma Sachin , Shah Dharmesh
Published: April 2016

Road crashes have been a major problem in India in recent times. The occurrences have increased considerably owing to the influx of four-wheelers and two-wheelers. The interior roads connecting villages and towns have been instrumental in multiple animal-vehicle collisions. Although the figure is not too large compared to other causes of road-related injuries, they are significant in number. Though numerous efforts have been in progress to solve and reduce the number of collisions, lack of practical applications and resources along with quality analytical data (for training and testing) related to animal-vehicle collision has impeded any major breakthrough in the scenario. In our current work, we have proposed and designed a system based on histogram research including oriented gradients and boosted cascade classifiers for automatic cow detection. The method is implemented in Opencv software and tested on various video clips involving cow movements in various scenarios. The proposed system has achieved an overall efficiency of 80% in terms of cow detection. The proposed system is a low-cost, highly reliable system which can easily be implemented in automobiles for detection of cow or any other animal after proper training and testing on the highway.
O PAPEL DO ARQUITETO EM EMPREENDIMENTOS DESENVOLVIDOS COM A TECNOLOGIA BIM E AS HABILIDADES QUE DEVEM SER ENSINADAS NA UNIVERSIDADE
Authors: Barison Maria Bernardete , Santos Eduardo Toledo
Published: April 2016

Este artigo discute o papel do arquiteto em empreendimentos desenvolvidos com tecnologia de Modelagem da Informação da Construção (Building Information Modeling – BIM). O objetivo do estudo é identificar as competências ligadas ao BIM requeridas desse profissional e o apontamento de quais devem ser ensinadas na graduação, especialmente no ensino de projeto de arquitetura. Inicialmente, é apresentada a atual situação da implementação de BIM por empresas do setor de Arquitetura, Engenharia Civil, Construção e Facility Management (AEC/FM) no Brasil. Em seguida, é apresentado um modelo teórico para um fluxo de trabalho BIM que pode ser adaptado para ser utilizado no Brasil. Tendo como base esse fluxo, que se divide em oito etapas, o papel do arquiteto é discutido, assim como as novas competências requeridas desse profissional. Adicionalmente, o currículo de arquitetura é discutido para saber em quais disciplinas o BIM pode ser introduzido e quais conteúdos deveriam ser ensinados. O estudo se baseou em revisão da literatura, com a qual foi possível conhecer o que muda no ensino de projeto de arquitetura com o uso de BIM.
ENSINO DO URBANISMO NOS CURSOS DE ARQUITETURA E URBANISMO: TECENDO A COMPREENSÃO DA CIDADE PARA A ATIVIDADE PROJETUAL
Authors: Vianna Mônica Peixoto , Cavalcanti Débora Barros
Published: April 2016

Este artigo trata de uma reflexão sobre o ensino do urbanismo e sua articulação com a atividade projetual em escolas de Arquitetura e Urbanismo a partir da elaboração e implantação de um projeto pedagógico inovador para um curso de Arquitetura e Urbanismo na região Nordeste do Brasil. Como relato de experiência, inicialmente o artigo tratará as bases conceituais e empíricas que deram origem à construção de uma visão crítica sobre os cursos de Arquitetura e Urbanismo na região. Em seguida serão abordados os critérios que foram a base deste novo projeto pedagógico e algumas estratégias adotadas para o ensino de urbanismo, principalmente a inclusão de uma disciplina que trata de planejamento urbano no primeiro semestre do curso e uma atividade de reconhecimento da cidade como palco da ação do arquiteto e urbanista. Por ser uma experiência ainda recente, serão relatadas as primeiras avaliações feitas por docentes e alunos sobre a aplicação prática dos critérios mencionados.
Cardiovascular Diseases in India
Authors: Prabhakaran Dorairaj , Jeemon Panniyammakal , Roy Ambuj
Published: April 2016

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) have now become the leading cause of mortality in India. A quarter of all mortality is attributable to CVD. Ischemic heart disease and stroke are the predominant causes and are responsible for >80% of CVD deaths. The Global Burden of Disease study estimate of age-standardized CVD death rate of 272 per 100 000 population in India is higher than the global average of 235 per 100 000 population. Some aspects of the CVD epidemic in India are particular causes of concern, including its accelerated buildup, the early age of disease onset in the population, and the high case fatality rate. In India, the epidemiological transition from predominantly infectious disease conditions to noncommunicable diseases has occurred over a rather brief period of time. Premature mortality in terms of years of life lost because of CVD in India increased by 59%, from 23.2 million (1990) to 37 million (2010). Despite wide heterogeneity in the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors across different regions, CVD has emerged as the leading cause of death in all parts of India, including poorer states and rural areas. The progression of the epidemic is characterized by the reversal of socioeconomic gradients; tobacco use and low fruit and vegetable intake have become more prevalent among those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. In addition, individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds frequently do not receive optimal therapy, leading to poorer outcomes. Countering the epidemic requires the development of strategies such as the formulation and effective implementation of evidence-based policy, reinforcement of health systems, and emphasis on prevention, early detection, and treatment with the use of both conventional and innovative techniques. Several ongoing community-based studies are testing these strategies.
The Prospects for Turkish – Chinese Bilateral and Multilateral Security Cooperation
Authors: Martin Lenore G.
Published: April 2016

Using a paradigm of five interrelated variables the paper examines the opportunities and challenges for security cooperation between Turkey, a predominantly Muslim society, and China, a society still dominated by the Communist Party. The five variables consist of military capabilities, economic capabilities, essential natural resources, ethnic and religious tolerance, and political legitimacy. The paradigm demonstrates that their interests help to promote security cooperation between Turkey and China, but also lead to strains in their relations along every variable. Both states are concerned about separatist groups but the Turkish public and some politicians are supportive of the Uighurs. Trade is growing but is unbalanced. They compete for energy sources but cooperate on development of alternative energy. Each of the variables in turn affects the political legitimacy of both regimes. Despite these instances of divergence in their national interests, Turkey and China can make policy choices that would strengthen their security relationship.
When a Sleeping Giant Wakes – A Neoclassical Realist Analysis of China’s Expanding Ties in the Middle East
Authors: Keskin Tugrul , Braun Christian N.
Published: April 2016

Between 1949 and the late 1970s, interactions between China (prc) and Middle Eastern nations were limited. After China started to implement economic reforms in 1978, however, the country opened up to the global economy in general and the Middle East in particular. Since the 1980s, the new Chinese economic dynamic, as a result of its economic reforms, has significantly increased China’s footprint in the region. China’s distinct approach has been to secure access to natural resources and new markets while, at the same time, making sure not to get bogged down in the Middle East’s political conflicts. However, as we argue in this paper, China’s role has by now become so prominent that it will be increasingly difficult for China to maintain its low-profile role. By analyzing the development of China’s role in the region generally as well as its specific relations to Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, Turkey and Israel, we conclude that China is likely to become a more active player in the region.
A Tribute to Princip: Metapoetry and Commentaries
Authors: Marčetič Adrijana
Published: April 2016

Just after the end of the Great War Miloš Crnjanski wrote a poem dedicated to Gavrilo Princip, the assassin of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria, in Sarajevo, on 28 June 1914. The title of the poem is “A Tribute to Princip” (“Spomen Principu”), and it was first published in Crnjanski’s early book of poetry Lyrics of Ithaca (Lirika Itake, 1919). Forty years later Crnjanski wrote a commentary on the poem, a sort of its prose paraphrase, and entitled it “On the Poem about Princip” (“Uz pesmu o Principu”); it was published in his Commentaries on Lyrics of Ithaca (Komentari uz Liriku Itake, 1959). Although by no means as significant as his famous poem “Sumatra”, and equally famous “Explanation of Sumatra”, that is considered a kind of Crnjanski’s personal poetic manifesto, as well as a poetic manifesto of Serbian modernism in general, “A Tribute to Princip” and its explanation represent an equally important testimony to Crnjanski’s poetic sensibility and his literary inspiration. The subject of the poem, the manner of poetic expression, on the one side, and the prose style of its commentary, on the other, clearly indicate what was considered by young Crnjanski the main role of the new, modern poetry he was advocating for: the break with the tradition, the rejection of the old and no longer productive poetic and national myths, and the affirmation of the new role of poetry in the everyday life. Therefore, opposing the standard interpretation of the poem, in this paper I argue that “A Tribute to Princip” is not a political poem but a “poem about poem”, which we could read as metapoetry or a poetry poem, providing that we apply the term with a little more freedom.
A Wandering Bullet: Staging the Sarajevo Assassination in Biljana Srbljanović’s Play Princip: This Grave is too Small for Me
Authors: Zorić Vladimir
Published: April 2016

This essay explores the remembrance of the Sarajevo assassination in the centenary year with a particular focus on theatrical productions in Austria and former Yugoslavia. The momentous event of June 1914 has been evoked in Yugoslav and post-Yugoslav cultures in different periods and with different pragmatic goals. The twists of this memory site are illustrated with reference to Genette’s concept of ellipsis (silence), prolepsis (prefiguration) and paralepsis (divination). The essay analyses the recent play by Biljana Srbljanović, Princip: This Grave Is Too Small for Me against the backdrop of the playwright’s earlier dramatic works as well as in the context of the dominant articulations of the mythos of assassination. The essay argues that Srbljanović’s play for all its vociferousness does not bring much novelty to her own opus nor for that matter to the existing patterns of remembrance of Franz Ferdinand and Gavrilo Princip. The constitutive ambiguities and inconsistencies of the dramatic text are then explored in its two stage renditions, one in Austria and the other in the former Yugoslav region. Although the two productions cater for different audiences in different languages they nevertheless end up in the same pitfall: they try to salvage the text at the cost of sacrificing stage momentum and the ethical credibility of the characters represented.
Identity and neotypification of Hieracium zanogae (Asteraceae), endemic to the Southern Carpathians

Authors: Szelag Zbigniew
Published: April 2016

In a taxonomic revision of Hieracium sect. Cernua Uechtritz (1875: 215) in the Carpathians, Sudetes and Alps (Szeląg 2006a), I did not manage to resolve the taxonomic position of  H. zanogae Pax (1908: 98) described from the Retezat Mountains in the Southern Carpathians, Romania. I have been unable to trace any specimens of Pax’s original material in a number of European herbaria, including the Hungarian Natural History Museum in Budapest (BP) which hosts the Carpathian herbarium of Pax, and the Natural History Museum in Wrocław (WRSL) where Ferdinand Pax worked. Based on the description included in the protologue (Pax 1908), I supposed that H. zanogae could be conspecific with H. tubulare Nyárády in Zahn (1929: 144), the other endemic species to the Retezat Mountains.
Synopsis of Bunchosia Kunth (Malpighiaceae) from the Atlantic Forest
Authors: De Almeida Rafael Felipe , Pellegrini Marco Octávio De Oliveira
Published: April 2016

As part of the ongoing revision of Malpighiaceae from the Atlantic Forest, an extensive review of Vellozo’s Flora fluminensis and the names associated to the Bunchosia maritima complex was carried out. We conclude that seven species should be recognized, with four of them related to the morphological complex. Each of the seven species can be distinguished by the number of glands on the abaxial side of the leaf blade, venation pattern, inflorescence, androecium and drupe morphology, and number of carpels. Thus, we redefine B. maritima to a much narrower sense. In order to determine proper nomenclature for the recognized species, the typification of all names was investigated. We designate a lectotype and an epitype for B. maritima, a lectotype for B. apiculata and a neotype for B. fluminensis. Furthermore, we present an identification key for the Bunchosia species from the Atlantic Forest domain.
On the Susceptibility of Cold Tropical Cirrus to Ice Nuclei Abundance
Authors: Jensen Eric J. , Ueyama Rei , Pfister Leonhard , Bui Thaopaul V. , Lawson R. Paul , Woods Sarah , Thornberry Troy , Rollins Andrew W. , Diskin Glenn S. , DiGangi Joshua P. , Avery Melody A.
Published: April 2016

Numerical simulations of cirrus formation in the tropical tropopause layer (TTL) during boreal wintertime are used to evaluate the impact of heterogeneous ice nuclei (IN) abundance on cold cloud microphysical properties and occurrence frequencies. The cirrus model includes homogeneous and heterogeneous ice nucleation, deposition growth/sublimation, and sedimentation. Reanalysis temperature and wind fields with high-frequency waves superimposed are used to force the simulations. The model results are constrained by comparison with in situ and satellite observations of TTL cirrus and relative humidity. Temperature variability driven by high-frequency waves has a dominant influence on TTL cirrus microphysical properties and occurrence frequencies, and inclusion of these waves is required to produce agreement between the simulated and observed abundance of TTL cirrus. With homogeneous freezing only and small-scale gravity waves included in the temperature curtains, the model produces excessive ice concentrations compared with in situ observations. Inclusion of relatively numerous heterogeneous ice nuclei (NIN ≥ 100 L−1) in the simulations improves the agreement with observed ice concentrations. However, when IN contribute significantly to TTL cirrus ice nucleation, the occurrence frequency of large supersaturations with respect to ice is less than indicated by in situ measurements. The model results suggest that the sensitivity of TTL cirrus extinction and ice water content statistics to heterogeneous ice nuclei abundance is relatively weak. The simulated occurrence frequencies of TTL cirrus are quite insensitive to ice nuclei abundance, both in terms of cloud frequency height distribution and regional distribution throughout the tropics.
Parents' Observations of Kindergartners Who are Advanced in Mathematical Reasoning
Authors: Pletan Michael D. , Robinson Nancy M. , Berninger Virginia W. , Abbott Robert D.
Published: April 2016

What behaviors and abilities do young, mathematically precocious children display? Are parents able to recognize such precocity? Questionnaires were completed by 100 parents of kindergarten-age children whom the parents thought to be mathematically precocious. Questions were derived from parents' spontaneous descriptions of the development of their children as well as behaviors consonant with items on two screening measures: the Arithmetic subtests of the Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children (K-ABC) and the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence, Revised (WPPSI-R). The children, as a group, did well on the screening measures, achieving mean scores of 121.4 (92nd percentile) on the K-ABC and 124.9 (95th percentile) on the Wechsler subscales. The questionnaire asked parents 27 items about children's mathematical behavior and 18 items comparing the children with peers on nonmathematical skills. Five factors were found to characterize the parents' responses: (a) a general intellectual factor, (b) short- and long-term memory, (c) rote (rehearsed) memory, (d) spatial reasoning, and (e) specific relational knowledge. It was concluded that parents can indeed identify young children who are advanced in mathematical reasoning and can describe that mathematical behavior in coherent ways.
A Method for Evaluating Vestibular Control of Posture
Authors: Booth Jack B. , Stockwell Charles W.
Published: April 2016

Tests that measure the patient's ability to control his posture generally have failed to yield clinically useful information about vestibular function. The primary reason for this failure is that postural control does not depend on vestibular function when visual and proprioceptive cues are available. To test vestibular function, one should use a procedure that forces the patient to rely on vestibular cues by eliminating cues from these other sensory systems. Such a procedure is described. Vision is eliminated by eye closure, and proprioceptive cues are minimized by rotating the supporting surface to null changes in ankle angle. Data are presented which show that postural responses are complex, but that they appear to conform to the pattern originally observed by Nashner. A method potentially capable of separately evaluating semicircular canal and otolith function is described.
Rheologic and Transport Properties of Middle Ear Effusions from Cleft Palate Patients
Authors: Romanczuk Bruce J. , Potsic William P. , McCall Allan L. , Khan Mohammad A. , Shih Chung K. , Litt Mitchell
Published: April 2016

Middle ear effusions represent respiratory secretions which are physiologically important to functional mucociliary transport systems. Knowledge of middle ear mucus and methods of facilitating clearance continue to be important to cleft palate patients.

Middle ear mucus was collected from the ears of children with cleft palate before surgical correction. Samples were dialyzed and lyophilized to yield mucus powder. This mucus was reconstituted at various nondialyzable solids (NDS) concentrations in TRIS‐CI buffer. A physiochemical study of the middle ear mucus was then undertaken, since a mucociliary transport defect leading to serous otitis media (SOM) is an etiologic possibility.

The viscoelastic properties of reconstituted middle ear mucus of cleft palate children were determined using a magnetic microrheometer. The relationship to nondialyzable solids concentrations is also described. The mucociliary transport rate as a function of NDS concentrations was recorded on the toad palate model. Results suggest a maximum transport rate at a specific NDS concentration. The viscoelastic properties also correlate well with the mucociliary transport rate. These may have clinical and therapeutic relevance.
Development of the Sensory Receptor Cells in the Utricular Macula
Authors: Van De Water Thomas R. , Wersäll Jan , Anniko Matti , Nordeman Hans
Published: April 2016

Normal CBA mice were timed for the developmental stage by the vaginal plug technique. The day of copulatory plug observance was designated as gestation day one. The developmental characteristics of the utricular macula sensory epithelium is described on an ultrastructural level from the 15th to the 19th day of gestation (approximate day of birth). The following pertinent observations are reported: (1) the formation of stereocilia begins prior to the 15th day and continues to approximately the 18th day, (2) the formation of the stereocilia suggests a mechanism of gradual transformation of existing cell surface microvilli, (3) the onset of the genesis of stereocilia precedes neuronal contact and cuticular plate formation, (4) stereocilia rootlets are forming before cuticular plate formation, (5) utricular sensory hair cells have undergone significant ultrastructural differentiation prior to the development of synaptic contacts, and (6) nerve chalice formation of type I sensory cells begins on the 18th day and is still incomplete at birth.
Teratocarcinoma of the Ethmoid Sinus: Review of Literature Plus a New Case Report
Authors: Devgan Baldev K. , Devgan Manju , Gross Charles W.
Published: April 2016

We report a third case of an unusual malignant neoplasm of the paranasal sinuses in a 60‐year‐old woman. Similar cases have been previously reported and called malignant teratoma. In consultation with Ackerman (written communication, February 1976) we propose the term “teratocarcinoma” and believe this is to be a more descriptive term and less likely to be confused with the generic term “teratoma,” which is a benign tumor.
Non‐Hodgkins Lymphoma of the Infratemporal Fossa: A Case Report
Authors: Peerless Alter G. , Lee Keatjin J. , Friedman Stanley I.
Published: April 2016

Lymphomas are statistically the second most common malignant tumor of the head and neck, following squamous cell carcinoma. They may present in the cervical lymph nodes or in extranodal areas. This paper presents an unusual case of a non‐Hodgkins lymphoma that presented in the infratemporal fossa of a 25‐year‐old woman. The anatomy of the infratemporal fossa is reviewed, and evaluation and therapy of lesions in this area are discussed.
Liposarcoma of the Maxilla
Authors: Adkins Warren Y. , Putney F. Johnson , Kreutner Albert , Cunningham Calhoun
Published: April 2016

A clinically appearing, well‐encapsulated lipoma was locally excised from the right posterior upper buccal gingival sulcus of a 24‐year‐old man and diagnosed histologically as pleomorphic liposarcoma. A right maxillectomy with preservation of orbital function was followed by 5,000 rads of planned postoperative radiation therapy. Four months later the tumor recurred outside of the original site, which has been controlled by further radiation and chemotherapy to these areas.
Biofeedback Training and Relaxation Exercises for Treatment of Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction
Authors: Principato Jerold J. , Barwell David R.
Published: April 2016

Biofeedback training involves electromyographic recording of the patient's level of facial muscle tension with concurrent presentation of that level to the patient in a visual or auditory manner. The objective of biofeedback training in patients with temporomandibular joint dysfunction is to provide them with an insight into abnormal facial muscle activities, which include clenching and grinding of the teeth and lip‐ and cheek‐biting habits. This insight coupled with relaxation programs affords the patient an opportunity to eliminate abnormal behavior patterns that foster temporomandibular joint symptomatology.
Hypersomnia with Periodic Breathing (An Acromegalic Pickwickian)
Authors: Romanczuk Bruce J. , Potsic William P. , Atkins Joseph P.
Published: April 2016

The syndromes of Pickwickian, Ondine's curse, and primary alveolar hypoventilation are respiratory disorders manifesting increased sleepiness and irregular respiratory rhythms. These disorders are currently grouped as hypersomnia with periodic breathing (HPB). Polygraphic techniques have lead to a reasonable hypothesis as to the pathophysiology of the multiple variants of HPB. Discernible causes of HPB have been attributed to both central and peripheral factors. Peripheral factors encompass those conditions relating to upper airway obstruction. An acromegalic person suffering the HPB syndrome secondary to laryngeal stenosis is described.
Blunt Laryngotracheal Trauma
Authors: Potter Charles R. , Sessions Donald G. , Ogura Joseph H.
Published: April 2016

Management of blunt trauma to the larynx and trachea is based upon accurate assessment of the anatomic site of the injury, the tissue involved, the time since the injury, and the general status of the patient. Early and orderly diagnosis and classification result in early management, which is essential to maximize function and minimize morbidity.

To evaluate the management and treatment results of patients with blunt trauma to the larynx and trachea, a retrospective study was performed. The office charts and hospital records of all patients with blunt trauma to the larynx and trachea from 1966 through 1976 were reviewed. Conditions studied included etiology of the trauma, initial signs and symptoms, pretreatment findings, management (primary and secondary), complications, and long‐term results of management.

Management results are discussed in comparison with reported results in the literature, and conclusions are presented regarding optimal treatment for the various classes of laryngotracheal injury.
Side‐Hole Suction for Ear Surgery
Authors: Todd N. Wendell
Published: April 2016

Surgical trauma to the soft tissue of the external ear canal and middle ear increases inflammation and scarring. A side‐hole suction tip has been found to minimize suction‐tip trauma, preclude the need to aspirate through synthetic sponge or cotton, and facilitate graft placement.
Gifted Education Research From the Economists’ Perspective
Authors: Peters Scott J. , Matthews Michael Stuart
Published: April 2016

The commentaries in this special issue as well as the articles they address contribute to the knowledge base about advanced learners, how they are identified, and how they are best served. In our Editors’ commentary, we have organized our thoughts following the same order in which the commentaries appear in the remainder of this issue. As the other commentary authors have done, in our discussion, we endeavor to provide our own perspective as well as a coalescing of ideas around the ideas addressed in each commentary.
Lithofacies classification in the Marcellus Shale by applying a statistical clustering algorithm to petrophysical and elastic well logs
Authors: Schlanser Kristen , Grana Dario , Campbell-Stone Erin
Published: April 2016

Interpreting shale lithofacies is an important step in identifying productive zones in the Marcellus Shale gas play; the target reservoir can be less than 3 m (10 ft) thick with overlying shales that appear similar on certain petrophysical well logs and in the core. However, these nonreservoir-quality shales contain widely varying organic and mechanical properties. To distinguish between reservoir- and nonreservoir-quality shale facies, this classification method applies a pattern-recognition algorithm, expectation maximization, to a set of commonly available petrophysical and elastic well logs to create 1D shale facies models along the wellbore. The statistical algorithm classifies the petrophysical and elastic well-log data into defined facies using the theory that each well log contains a distribution of Gaussian curves for each facies. The method is applied to 12 wells across Pennsylvania and northern West Virginia, and it is able to discriminate between shale facies based on organic content and brittleness, characteristics which are not always evident in core. To verify the geologic accuracy of the facies models, the results are compared with the core data, well logs, mudlogs, and regional stratigraphic studies when available. In addition, we were able to designate a lithofacies-defined top to the Marcellus Formation in parts of the Appalachian Basin where the gradational contact with the overlying Mahantango Formation is poorly defined on petrophysical logs.
Selecting optimum log measurements for hydraulic fracturing
Authors: Far Mehdi E. , Quirein John A. , Mekic Natasa
Published: April 2016

We have developed a statistical method for investigating the importance of different log measurements for picking the best zones for hydraulic fracturing. We have determined the method’s applicability using data from unconventional reservoirs (Eagle Ford, Haynesville, Barnett, and a reservoir from the Middle East). The analysis began with single log measurements (e.g., gamma ray [GR], compressional and shear sonic [DTC and DTS], and spectral gamma ray [SGR], which could measure the radioactivity of uranium [U], potassium [K], and thorium [Th]). Other types of measurements, including density (RhoB), neutron porosity (NPHI), and resistivity, were added to obtain more complex logging suites. These log measurements were the inputs for this analysis. Each input combination was referred to as a “scenario.” Parameters such as effective porosity (PhiE), brittleness, total organic carbon (TOC), production index (PI), and fracture index (FI) were referred to as the outputs for the analysis. We have investigated linear and nonlinear combinations of the inputs to predict the outputs. Various scenarios, beginning with the simplest cases and ending with the most complete combination, were tested. The selection of log combinations was either based on the importance of individual logs or on industry-standard combinations (such as triple and quad combos). For each scenario, we computed correlation coefficients and root-mean-square errors of predicting the output parameters. The prediction accuracies generally increased as a result of increasing the number of input logs. Our analysis clearly found the importance of using SGR (for PI and FI prediction) and resistivity (for TOC prediction) logs. Based on comparison of the reconstruction results, actual values, and correlation coefficients/errors, we ranked the log combinations for predicting/modeling a specific parameter. The most challenging properties to model included TOC, PhiE, PI, and FI; the easiest properties to predict were brittleness and Young’s modulus.
Validating the Contribution-Weighted Model: Robustness and Cost-Benefit Analyses
Authors: Chen Eva , Budescu David V. , Lakshmikanth Shrinidhi K. , Mellers Barbara A. , Tetlock Philip E.
Published: April 2016

We use results from a multiyear, geopolitical forecasting tournament to highlight the ability of the contribution weighted model [Budescu DV, Chen E (2015) Identifying expertise to extract the wisdom of crowds. Management Sci. 61(2):267–280] to capture and exploit expertise. We show that the model performs better when judges gain expertise from manipulations such as training in probabilistic reasoning and collaborative interaction from serving on teams. We document the model’s robustness using probability judgments from early, middle, and late phases of the forecasting period and by showing its strong performance in the presence of hypothetical malevolent forecasters. The model is highly cost-effective: it operates well, even with random attrition, as the number of judges shrinks and information on their past performance is reduced.