bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Tornado-Induced Tree Fall Using Aerial Photography from the Joplin, Missouri, and Tuscaloosa–Birmingham, Alabama, Tornadoes of 2011
Authors: Karstens Christopher D. , Gallus William A. , Lee Bruce D. , Finley Catherine A.
Published: January 2013

In this study, aerial imagery of tornado damage is used to digitize the falling direction of trees (i.e., tree fall) along the 22 May 2011 Joplin, Missouri, and 27 April 2011 Tuscaloosa–Birmingham, Alabama, tornado tracks. Normalized mean patterns of observed tree fall from each tornado’s peak-intensity period are subjectively compared with results from analytical vortex simulations of idealized tornado-induced tree fall to characterize mean properties of the near-surface flow as depicted by the model. A computationally efficient method of simulating tree fall is applied that uses a Gumbel distribution of critical tree-falling wind speeds on the basis of the enhanced Fujita scale. Results from these simulations suggest that both tornadoes had strong radial near-surface winds. A few distinct tree-fall patterns are identified at various locations along the Tuscaloosa–Birmingham tornado track. Concentrated bands of intense tree fall, collocated with and aligned parallel to the axis of underlying valley channels, extend well beyond the primary damage path. These damage patterns are hypothesized to be the result of flow acceleration caused by channeling within valleys. Another distinct pattern of tree fall, likely not linked to the underlying topography, may have been associated with a rear-flank downdraft (RFD) internal surge during the tornado’s intensification stage. Here, the wind field was strong enough to produce tornado-strength damage well beyond the visible funnel cloud. This made it difficult to distinguish between tornado- and RFD-related damage and thus illustrates an ambiguity in ascertaining tornado-damage-path width in some locations.
A Formulation of Unified Three-Dimensional Wave Activity Flux of Inertia–Gravity Waves and Rossby Waves
Authors: Kinoshita Takenari , Sato Kaoru
Published: January 2013

A companion paper formulates the three-dimensional wave activity flux (3D-flux-M) whose divergence corresponds to the wave forcing on the primitive equations. However, unlike the two-dimensional wave activity flux, 3D-flux-M does not accurately describe the magnitude and direction of wave propagation. In this study, the authors formulate a modification of 3D-flux-M (3D-flux-W) to describe this propagation using small-amplitude theory for a slowly varying time-mean flow. A unified dispersion relation for inertia–gravity waves and Rossby waves is also derived and used to relate 3D-flux-W to the group velocity. It is shown that 3D-flux-W and the modified wave activity density agree with those for inertia–gravity waves under the constant Coriolis parameter assumption and those for Rossby waves under the small Rossby number assumption.

To compare 3D-flux-M with 3D-flux-W, an analysis of the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) Interim Re-Analysis (ERA-Interim) data is performed focusing on wave disturbances in the storm tracks during April. While the divergence of 3D-flux-M is in good agreement with the meridional component of the 3D residual mean flow associated with disturbances, the 3D-flux-W divergence shows slight differences in the upstream and downstream regions of the storm tracks. Further, the 3D-flux-W magnitude and direction are in good agreement with those derived by R. A. Plumb, who describes Rossby wave propagation. However, 3D-flux-M is different from Plumb’s flux in the vicinity of the storm tracks. These results suggest that different fluxes (both 3D-flux-W and 3D-flux-M) are needed to describe wave propagation and wave–mean flow interaction in the 3D formulation.
How Does the Eye Warm? Part II: Sensitivity to Vertical Wind Shear and a Trajectory Analysis
Authors: Stern Daniel P. , Zhang Fuqing
Published: January 2013

In Part II of this study, idealized simulations of tropical cyclones are used to investigate the influence of vertical wind shear on the structure of warming and descent in the eye; results are compared with the no-shear simulation that was analyzed in Part I. During intensification of a tropical cyclone in a quiescent environment, time-averaged eye descent is maximized at 12–13-km height. Warming is not generally maximized at these levels, however, because the static stability is at a minimum. Consequently, the perturbation temperature is maximized at midlevels. Each of the above results remains valid for sheared tropical cyclones, and therefore shear does not systematically alter the height of the warm core.

An analysis of over 90 000 parcel trajectories yields further insight into the mechanisms of eye warming and addresses several outstanding questions regarding the character of eye descent. The rate at which parcels are stirred from the eye into the eyewall is a strong function of intensity. While stirring is large at the beginning of rapid intensification (RI), once a sufficient intensity is achieved, most parcels originating near the storm center can remain inside the eye for at least several days. Many parcels in the upper troposphere are able to descend within the eye by 5–10 km. The above results are relatively insensitive to the presence of up to 10 m s−1 of shear. In contrast, stirring in the eye–eyewall interface region is substantially enhanced by shear.
The Major Floods in the Amazonas River and Tributaries (Western Amazon Basin) during the 1970–2012 Period: A Focus on the 2012 Flood*
Authors: Espinoza Jhan Carlo , Ronchail Josyane , Frappart Frédéric , Lavado Waldo , Santini William , Guyot Jean Loup
Published: January 2013

In this work, the authors analyze the origin of the extreme floods in the Peruvian Amazonas River during the 1970–2012 period, focusing on the recent April 2012 flooding (55 400 m3 s−1). Several hydrological variables, such as rainfall, terrestrial water storage, and discharge, point out that the unprecedented 2012 flood is mainly related to an early and abundant wet season over the north of the basin. Thus, the peak of the Marañón River, the northern contributor of the Amazonas, occurred sooner than usual (in April instead of May), coinciding with the peak of the Ucayali River, the southern contributor. This concomitance caused a dramatic flood downstream in the Peruvian Amazonas. These results are compared to the amplitude and timing of the three most severe extreme floods (1970–2011). The analysis of the climatic features related to the most important floods (1986, 1993, 1999, and 2012) suggests that they are characterized by a La Niña event, which originates a geopotential height wave train near the ground, with positive anomalies over the subtropical South and North Pacific and Atlantic and over southeastern South America. These patterns contribute to 1) the origin of an abundant humidity transport flux from the tropical North Atlantic and the Caribbean Sea toward the northwestern Amazon and 2) the maintenance of the monsoon flux over this region. They both favor a strong convergence of humidity in the northern Amazonas basin. Finally, the authors suggest that the intensity of floods is more likely related to an early La Niña event (as observed during the 2011/12 season), early rainfall, and simultaneous peaks of both tributaries of the Amazonas River.
Correction of Reflectivity in the Presence of Partial Beam Blockage over a Mountainous Region Using X-Band Dual Polarization Radar
Authors: P. C., Shakti , Maki M. , Shimizu S. , Maesaka T. , Kim D.-S. , Lee D.-I. , Iida H.
Published: January 2013

Two approaches to correcting the partial beam blockage of radar reflectivity in mountainous areas were evaluated using X-band dual polarization radar data from the Hakone mountain region, Kanto, Japan. The comparatively simple digital elevation model (DEM) method calculates the power loss in the received signal based on the geometrical relationship between radar beams and a DEM. The second approach, the modified DEM method, attempts to account for unknown power losses related to ground clutter, hardware calibration errors, etc. Comparison between ground data and reflectivity data corrected by both methods suggests that the DEM method alone was insufficient to correct beam blockage problems but that the modified DEM data were in generally good agreement with the ground data. The authors also estimated 10-min rainfall amounts using reflectivity corrected by the modified DEM method and compared these with data from a network of rain gauges in the mountainous region. In general, the results show good agreement between radar estimates and rain gauge measurements. On the basis of their results, the authors conclude that the modified DEM method offers a suitable solution to the problem of beam blockage in mountainous regions, provided that the beam blockage rate is less than 80%.
Effect of Sitting or Standing on Touch Screen Performance and Touch Characteristics
Authors: Chourasia Amrish O. , Wiegmann Douglas A. , Chen Karen B. , Irwin Curtis B. , Sesto Mary E.
Published: January 2013

Objective:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of sitting and standing on performance and touch characteristics during a digit entry touch screen task in individuals with and without motor-control disabilities.

Background:

Previously, researchers of touch screen design have not considered the effect of posture (sitting vs. standing) on touch screen performance (accuracy and timing) and touch characteristics (force and impulse).

Method:

Participants with motor-control disabilities ( n = 15) and without ( n = 15) completed a four-digit touch screen number entry task in both sitting and standing postures. Button sizes varied from 10 mm to 30 mm (5-mm increments), and button gap was 3 mm or 5 mm.

Results:

Participants had more misses and took longer to complete the task during standing for smaller button sizes (<20 mm). At larger button sizes, performance was similar for both sitting and standing. In general, misses, time to complete task, and touch characteristics were increased for standing. Although disability affected performance (misses and timing), similar trends were observed for both groups across posture and button size.

Conclusion:

Standing affects performance at smaller button sizes (<20 mm). For participants with and without motor-control disabilities, standing led to greater exerted force and impulse.

Application:

Along with interface design considerations, environmental conditions should also be considered to improve touch screen accessibility and usability.
Effect of Acidic Solution Viscosity on Enamel Erosion
Authors: Aykut-Yetkiner A. , Wiegand A. , Bollhalder A. , Becker K. , Attin T.
Published: January 2013

The objective of this in vitro study was to investigate the effects of viscosity changes of different acidic solutions on dental erosion. Bovine enamel samples (n = 240, Ø = 3 mm) were embedded in acrylic resin and were allocated to 30 groups (n = 8). Citric acid (CA) and phosphoric acid (PA) solutions at pH 2.5, 3, and 3.5 were prepared in de-ionized water (titratable acidity to pH 5.5: 31 ± 0.6 mmol OH-/l). The kinetic viscosities of the acidic solutions were adjusted to 1.5, 3, 6, 12, and 24 mm2/sec by the addition of hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) at different concentrations. Solutions were pumped over the enamel surface from a reservoir with a drop rate of 1 mL/min. Each specimen was eroded for 10 min at 20°C. Erosion of enamel surfaces was measured by profilometry. Data were analyzed by analyses of variance and logarithmic regression analyses ( p < 0.05). Enamel loss was dependent on viscosity, pH, and the kind of acid. The regression analyses showed that higher viscosity caused lower enamel erosion for both acids and all pH levels. Dental erosion is dependent not only on chemical factors of the acid, like pH and acid type, but also on acid viscosity.
Mathematics Achievement and Anxiety and Their Relation to Internalizing and Externalizing Behaviors
Authors: Wu Sarah S. , Willcutt Erik G. , Escovar Emily , Menon Vinod
Published: January 2013

Although behavioral difficulties are well documented in reading disabilities, little is known about the relationship between math ability and internalizing and externalizing behaviors. Here, we use standardized measures to investigate the relation among early math ability, math anxiety, and internalizing and externalizing behaviors in a group of 366 second and third graders. Math achievement was significantly correlated with attentional difficulties and social problems but not with internalizing symptoms. The relation between math achievement and externalizing behavioral problems was stronger in girls than in boys. Math achievement was not correlated with trait anxiety but was negatively correlated with math anxiety. Critically, math anxiety differed significantly between children classified as math learning disabled (MLD), low achieving (LA), and typically developing (TD), with math anxiety significantly higher in the MLD and LA groups compared to the TD group. Our findings suggest that, even in nonclinical samples, math difficulties at the earliest stages of formal math learning are associated with attentional difficulties and domain-specific anxiety. These findings underscore the need for further examination of the shared cognitive, neural, and genetic influences underlying problem solving and nonverbal learning difficulties and accompanying internalizing and externalizing behaviors.
Mechanical performance of wool fabrics grafted with methacrylamide and 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate by the Kawabata Evaluation System for Fabric method
Authors: Tsukada Masuhiro , Khan Md Majibur Rahman , Miura Tomohiro , Postle Ronald , Sakaguchi Akio
Published: January 2013

Wool fabrics were graft copolymerized with methacrylamide (MAAm) and 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) in aqueous media, using a chemical redox system as an initiator. After grafting, the mechanical properties related to the hand evaluation, such as tensile, shearing, bending, compression and surface properties of wool fabrics, were evaluated by means of the Kawabata Evaluation System for Fabric. The surface morphology was examined by scanning electron microscopy. The results revealed that the surface morphology and low-stress mechanical properties of wool fabrics were remarkably changed after grafting with HEMA. The weight gain of the wool fabrics grafted with HEMA increased rapidly in the initial grafting stage and reached saturation level at 17 wt% after 20 minutes. Small deposits of oligomers were visible on wool surfaces and typical scale patterns were changed after grafting wool fabric with HEMA. The slope of the shearing hysteresis curves in the weft and warp directions for wool fabrics grafted with HEMA was increased compared with the control and wool fabrics grafted with MAAm. These results imply that the changes in tensile, shearing, bending and compression behavior of grafted wool fabrics are due to the reduction of the free internal volumes of the fabrics, leading to a tightening of its texture.
Student Success Courses in the Community College
Authors: Cho Sung-Woo , Karp Melinda Mechur
Published: January 2013

Using data from the Virginia Community College System and building upon prior Florida-based research, this study examines whether student success course enrollment, as well as student and institutional characteristics, has positive associations with shorter-term student outcomes, including earning any college credits within the first year and persistence into the second year. The present study finds that students who enrolled in a student success course in the first semester were more likely to earn any college-level credits within the first year and were more likely to persist to the second year. The study also finds that students who were referred to developmental education were more likely to earn any college-level credits within the first year if they enrolled in a student success course in their first term.
Inferences Are For Doing
Authors: Crawford Matthew T. , McCarthy Randy J. , Kjærstad Hanne Lie , Skowronski John J.
Published: January 2013

Spontaneous trait inferences (STIs) are ubiquitous and occur when perceivers spontaneously infer actor traits from actor behaviors. Previous research has elucidated the processes underlying STIs, but little work has focused on the functions of STIs. This article proposes that these unintentional early inferences serve a general approach or avoidance function. Two studies are reported in which external approach and avoidance motivations elicited via flexion–extension (Study 1) or physical warmth (Study 2) affect the encoding of trait-implying behavioral statements in a valence-matching manner. The results suggest that somatic states can act as cues that affect unintentional social information processing independently of the actual experience of the psychological states associated with those somatic states. Implications for a functional perspective on STIs are discussed.
The Random-Threshold Generalized Unfolding Model and Its Application of Computerized Adaptive Testing
Authors: Wang Wen-Chung , Liu Chen-Wei , Wu Shiu-Lien
Published: January 2013

The random-threshold generalized unfolding model (RTGUM) was developed by treating the thresholds in the generalized unfolding model as random effects rather than fixed effects to account for the subjective nature of the selection of categories in Likert items. The parameters of the new model can be estimated with the JAGS (Just Another Gibbs Sampler) freeware, which adopts a Bayesian approach for estimation. A series of simulations was conducted to evaluate the parameter recovery of the new model and the consequences of ignoring the randomness in thresholds. The results showed that the parameters of RTGUM were recovered fairly well and that ignoring the randomness in thresholds led to biased estimates. Computerized adaptive testing was also implemented on RTGUM, where the Fisher information criterion was used for item selection and the maximum a posteriori method was used for ability estimation. The simulation study showed that the longer the test length, the smaller the randomness in thresholds, and the more categories in an item, the more precise the ability estimates would be.
The Gifted and Gifted Education in Hungary
Authors: Gyarmathy Eva
Published: January 2013

The article is an overview on the provision of gifted education in Hungary. It describes views and approaches that have been and are present, including beliefs and the official provisions for gifted students. A separate part of the study introduces new innovations in gifted education in Hungary, as well as the research results. A very detailed recommendation is included for the future steps that gifted education should follow to avoid loss of potential talent.
Gifted Education in the Netherlands
Authors: De Boer Greet C. , Minnaert Alexander E. M. G. , Kamphof Gert
Published: January 2013

In the summer of 2011, the Dutch Minister of Education, Culture, and Science presented a letter to the Cabinet, containing the policy objectives for the education of talented, gifted, and highly gifted students. In action plans for primary, secondary, and higher education, in addition to the development of teacher skills, specific measures were announced, which should lead to better education and opportunities for developing the potential of these students. This article gives an overview of the current state of affairs in the Netherlands regarding the Dutch educational system and the education of talented, highly gifted, and outstanding students including which talents are valued and what beliefs people have about gifted individuals. The Minister’s objectives for future directions in this regard, as described in the action plans, are also discussed.
The Effect of Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine in a Mouse Model of Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Shin Ji‐Hyeon , Kim Boo Young , Park Hyang Rim , Kim Sung Won , Kim Soo Whan
Published: January 2013

Objectives

This study aimed to determine if pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPV) could suppress allergic inflammation in an allergic rhinitis mouse model and to explore whether differences exist regarding the effect of PPV according to timing of administration.

Study Design

In vivo study using an animal model.

Setting

Catholic Research Institutes of Medical Science.

Subjects and Methods

BALB/c mice were divided into control,Der f, Pre‐S, and Post‐S groups. The allergen wasDermatophagoides farinae(Der f). Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine was administered before (Pre‐S) or after (Post‐S) sensitization. Allergic symptoms and eosinophils in nasal mucosa, interferon‐γ, interleukin (IL)–13, and IL‐10 in nasal lavage fluid and serumDer f–specific IgE were measured. T‐bet, GATA‐3, and Foxp3 mRNA in spleen were determined by real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Flow cytometry of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+T cells in spleen was analyzed.

Results

In the Pre‐S group, symptom score, serumDer f–specific IgE, eosinophils, IL‐13, and GATA‐3 mRNA were decreased (P<. 05), and IL‐10, Foxp3 mRNA, and CD4+CD25+Foxp3+T cells were increased compared with those inDer fgroup (P<. 05). In the Post‐S group, symptom score, serumDer f–specific IgE, and GATA‐3 mRNA were decreased (P <. 05), and Foxp3 mRNA and CD4+CD25+Foxp3+T cells were increased compared with those in theDer fgroup (P<. 05).

Conclusion

These results suggest that PPV administered before or after sensitization suppresses Th2 response and enhanced induction of regulatory T cells in an allergic rhinitis model. In addition, there was no significant difference between the degrees of effects in these 2 conditions. In the future, we can consider PPV to be a preventative agent for allergic rhinitis.
The Joint Facial and Invasive Neck Trauma (J‐FAINT) Project, Iraq and Afghanistan 2003‐2011
Authors: Feldt Brent A. , Salinas Nathan L. , Rasmussen Todd E. , Brennan Joseph
Published: January 2013

Objective

Define the number and type of facial and penetrating neck trauma injuries sustained in Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF).

Study Design

Retrospective database study.

Setting

Tertiary care level I trauma center.

Subjects and Methods

The Joint Theater Trauma Registry (JTTR) was queried for data from OIF and OEF from January 2003 to May 2011. Information on demographics; type and severity of facial, neck, and associated trauma injures; and impact on overall mortality was recorded.

Results

There were 37,523 discrete facial and penetrating neck injuries that occurred in 7177 service members. There were 25,834 soft tissue injuries and 11,689 facial fractures. The most common soft injury sites were the face/cheek (48%), neck/larynx/trachea (17%), and mouth/lip (12%). The maxilla (25%), mandible (21%), and orbit (19%) were the most common facial fracture sites. The most common mechanism of injury was penetrating (49.1%), followed by blunt (25.7%), blast (24.2%), and other/unknown/burn (1%). Injuries were associated with an overall mortality rate of 3.5%. The highest risks for mortality were treatment at a level IIa facility, female sex, prehospital intubation, and blast injury. Most injuries were mild to moderate.

Conclusion

Facial and penetrating neck trauma are common in modern warfare. Most injuries are minor to moderate and survivable. Training and potential body armor updates can be made. Medical personnel deploying to support OIF and OEF could benefit from specific training in the management of facial and penetrating neck injuries. A surgeon skilled in managing these injuries would likely be beneficial in a deployed setting.
Modeling Nasal Physiology Changes Due to Septal Perforations
Authors: Cannon Daniel E. , Frank Dennis O. , Kimbell Julia S. , Poetker David M. , Rhee John S.
Published: January 2013

Objective

To use computational fluid dynamics (CFD) technology to help providers understand (1) how septal perforations may alter nasal physiology and (2) how these alterations are influenced by perforation size and location.

Study Design

Computer simulation study.

Setting

Facial plastic and reconstructive surgery clinic.

Subjects and Methods

With the aid of medical imaging and modeling software, septal perforations of 1 and 2 cm in anterior, posterior, and superior locations were virtually created in a nasal cavity digital model. The CFD techniques were used to analyze airflow, nasal resistance, air conditioning, and wall shear stress.

Results

Bilateral nasal resistance was not significantly altered by a septal perforation. Airflow allocation changed, with more air flowing through the lower‐resistance nasal cavity. This effect was greater for anterior and posterior perforations than for the superior location. At the perforation sites, there was less localized heat and moisture flux and wall shear stress in superior perforations compared with those in anterior or posterior locations. For anterior perforations, a larger size produced higher wall shear and velocity, whereas in posterior perforations, a smaller size produced higher wall shear and velocity.

Conclusion

Septal perforations may alter nasal physiology. In the subject studied, airflow allocation to each side was changed as air was shunted through the perforation to the lower‐resistance nasal cavity. Anterior and posterior perforations caused larger effects than those in a superior location. Increasing the size of anterior perforations and decreasing the size of posterior perforations enhanced alterations in wall shear and velocity at the perforation.
The Effect of Intratympanic Methylprednisolone and Gentamicin Injection on Ménière's Disease
Authors: Gabra Nathalie , Saliba Issam
Published: January 2013

Objectives

To compare the efficacy of intratympanic injections of methylprednisolone (ITMP) and intratympanic injections of gentamicin (ITG) to control the symptoms of Ménière's disease and to evaluate their effect on hearing level.

Study Design

A historical cohort study.

Setting

Tertiary referral center.

Subjects and Methods

Eighty‐nine patients affected by Ménière's disease were included in this study, of whom 47 were treated with ITG and 42 were treated with ITMP. Two periods of follow‐up were considered: 0 to 6 months and 6 to 12 months after the intratympanic injections (ITI). Mean outcome measurements consisted of control of vertigo attacks, tinnitus, and aural fullness; pure‐tone average (PTA); and speech discrimination score (SDS).

Results

The 2 groups had the same number of vertigo spells per month before ITI (P=. 883). Six to 12 months after ITI, 82.9% of the ITG group and 48.1% of the ITMP group achieved complete control of vertigo (P=. 004). There was better control of tinnitus and aural fullness with ITG than with ITMP (P≤. 002). The 2 groups had a statistically significant difference in hearing level before ITI (P≤. 001). This difference was no longer present 6 to 12 months after ITI (P>. 05).

Conclusion

Intratympanic injections of gentamicin are more efficient than ITMP in controlling the symptoms of Ménière's disease. The 2 groups ended up without a difference in hearing level after ITI. According to these findings, administrating ITMP to control Ménière's disease seems to be less beneficial than ITG.
Is the Degree of Discomfort Caused by Tinnitus in Normal‐Hearing Individuals Correlated with Psychiatric Disorders?
Authors: Campos Granjeiro Ronaldo , Moura Kehrle Helga , Sarmento Cardoso de Oliveira Taciana , Lopes Sampaio André Luiz , Costa Pires de Oliveira Carlos Augusto
Published: January 2013

Objective

To evaluate the annoyance of tinnitus in normal‐hearing patients and to correlate it with outer hair cell function and with anxiety and depression disorders.

Study design

Case‐control study.

Setting

Tertiary care medical center.

Subjects and Methods

Sixty‐eight patients with tinnitus (study group) and a control group consisting of 46 subjects without tinnitus were studied. The subjects ranged in age from 20 to 45 years and had a hearing threshold of up to 25 dB in the frequency range of 500 to 8000 Hz. The subjects were submitted to otoacoustic emission (OAE) tests. Tinnitus annoyance was evaluated using the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory, and anxiety and depression were measured using the Beck Anxiety and Depression Inventories.

Results

In the study group, 67% of the transient‐evoked OAE tests were altered, with the observation of significant differences for all frequencies tested. In addition, 65.2% of the distortion product–evoked OAE tests were altered at 3000, 6000, and 8000 Hz, and this difference was significant when compared with control. Anxiety (44.1%) and depression (33.3%) were significantly more frequent among patients with tinnitus. Tinnitus annoyance was not correlated with the OAE results or tinnitus duration but showed a correlation with the presence of anxiety and depression. In the study group, no difference in tinnitus annoyance, anxiety, or depression was observed between patients with normal and altered OAE tests.

Conclusion

This study showed altered OAE in patients with tinnitus and normal hearing. It also demonstrated a positive correlation between the annoyance of tinnitus and anxiety and depression in normal‐hearing patients.
Inhibitive and facilitative priming induced by traces in the processing of wh-dependencies in a second language
Authors: Dekydtspotter Laurent , Miller A Katherine
Published: January 2013

Two experiments involving picture classifications investigated priming behavior in the context of wh-movement at clause edge and in indirect object position, respectively. In Experiment 1, intermediate L1-Chinese L2-English learners produced slower classification times (inhibitions) at clause edge, apparently induced by the computation of intermediate traces, whereas faster classification times (facilitations) were detected in native speakers (NSs). In Experiment 2, advanced L1-English L2-French learners produced facilitations apparently induced by the computation of traces in indirect object position. Learners’ priming pattern differed from the priming pattern produced by NSs, however. We argue that the patterns found suggest structural computations interacting with distinct activation modes in the maintenance of discourse referents, plausibly resulting from the automaticity of lexical access, or lack thereof.
Evaluation of Markers and Risk Prediction Models
Authors: Van Calster Ben , Vickers Andrew J. , Pencina Michael J. , Baker Stuart G. , Timmerman Dirk , Steyerberg Ewout W.
Published: January 2013

Background. For the evaluation and comparison of markers and risk prediction models, various novel measures have recently been introduced as alternatives to the commonly used difference in the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (ΔAUC). The net reclassification improvement (NRI) is increasingly popular to compare predictions with 1 or more risk thresholds, but decision-analytic approaches have also been proposed. Objective. We aimed to identify the mathematical relationships between novel performance measures for the situation that a single risk threshold T is used to classify patients as having the outcome or not. Methods. We considered the NRI and 3 utility-based measures that take misclassification costs into account: difference in net benefit (ΔNB), difference in relative utility (ΔRU), and weighted NRI (wNRI). We illustrate the behavior of these measures in 1938 women suspect of having ovarian cancer (prevalence 28%). Results. The 3 utility-based measures appear to be transformations of each other and hence always lead to consistent conclusions. On the other hand, conclusions may differ when using the standard NRI, depending on the adopted risk threshold T, prevalence P, and the obtained differences in sensitivity and specificity of the 2 models that are compared. In the case study, adding the CA-125 tumor marker to a baseline set of covariates yielded a negative NRI yet a positive value for the utility-based measures. Conclusions. The decision-analytic measures are each appropriate to indicate the clinical usefulness of an added marker or compare prediction models since these measures each reflect misclassification costs. This is of practical importance as these measures may thus adjust conclusions based on purely statistical measures. A range of risk thresholds should be considered in applying these measures.
Topiramate is likely to act outside of the trigeminocervical complex
Authors: Storer Robin J , Goadsby Peter J
Published: January 2013

Background

To facilitate understanding the locus and mechanism of action of antimigraine preventives, we examined the effect of topiramate on trigeminocervical activation in the cat.

Methods

Cats were anesthetized and physiologically monitored. Electrical stimulation of the superior sagittal sinus activated nociceptive trigeminovascular afferents. Extracellular recordings were made from neurons in the trigeminocervical complex.

Results

Microiontophoretically delivered topiramate, applied locally at the second order synapse of the trigeminovascular system in the trigeminocervical complex, produced significant inhibition of L-glutamate-evoked firing of neurons only at the highest microiontophoretic currents (27 ± 7% at −160 nA; p < 0.05, n = 14 cells), but did not inhibit firing of these neurons evoked by stimulation of the craniovascular afferents (2 ± 5%, p = 0.762, n = 13 cells). In contrast, systemically administered topiramate (30 mg/kg intravenously) partly inhibited this firing (32 ± 10% at 15 min; F5,35 = 3.5, p < 0.05, n = 8 cats). After this systemic administration, profound inhibition (70 ± 10%, p < 0.001, n = 7) of L-glutamate-evoked firing of cells in the trigeminocervical complex at the second order synapse of the trigeminovascular system was observed.

Conclusions

These data suggest that topiramate acts outside of the trigeminocervical complex in the cat. Determining the sites of action of preventive antimigraine treatments is crucial to developing laboratory models for the development of new therapeutics, and may vary between species.
Is β endorphin related to migraine headache and its relief?
Authors: Misra Usha K , Kalita Jayantee , Tripathi Gyanesh M , Bhoi Sanjeev K
Published: January 2013

Background

Low β endorphin level in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) has been reported in migraine. The basis of pain relief in migraine by repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) may be related to β endorphin (BE), which has not been evaluated. It is proposed to measure plasma β endorphin level in migraine patients and the change in β endorphin level following rTMS, and to correlate these changes with migraine relief.

Methods

Twenty-five patients with migraine diagnosed as per International Headache Society criteria and 20 gender- and age-matched controls were included. Their clinical characteristics including duration of migraine, its frequency, severity and functional disability, triggers, allodynia and number of analgesic used were noted. Plasma β endorphin level was estimated before and after the third rTMS session. rTMS was delivered on the hot spot of right abductor digiti minimi on alternate days for 3 days and each session consisted of 600 pulses at 10 Hz. The clinical response was noted weekly for 1 month and correlated with β endorphin level.

Results

The median age of the patients was 35 (20–50) years and 19 were females. Eight patients had episodic and 17 chronic migraine. β endorphin level was significantly lower in migraine (4.35 ± 2.29 ng/ml) compared to controls (6.68 ± 2.93 ng/ml). β endorphin level was lower in chronic compared to episodic migraine (3.74 ± 2.20 versus 5.65 ± 2.02 ng/ml). Following rTMS, the headache frequency, severity, functional disability and analgesic intake significantly reduced on the seventh day of rTMS and remained significant until the fourth week compared to the baseline. The clinical improvement was associated with increase in β endorphin level (4.35 ± 2.29 versus 6.58 ± 3.33 ng/ml).

Conclusion

It can be concluded from this study that the basal plasma β endorphin level was low in migraine patients, especially in chronic migraine. The improvement in migraine after rTMS was associated with increase in β endorphin level.
Stimulation of the sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) for cluster headache treatment. Pathway CH-1: A randomized, sham-controlled study
Authors: Schoenen Jean , Jensen Rigmor Højland , Lantéri-Minet Michel , Láinez Miguel JA , Gaul Charly , Goodman Amy M , Caparso Anthony , May Arne
Published: January 2013

Background

The pain and autonomic symptoms of cluster headache (CH) result from activation of the trigeminal parasympathetic reflex, mediated through the sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG). We investigated the safety and efficacy of on-demand SPG stimulation for chronic CH (CCH).

Methods

A multicenter, multiple CH attack study of an implantable on-demand SPG neurostimulator was conducted in patients suffering from refractory CCH. Each CH attack was randomly treated with full, sub-perception, or sham stimulation. Pain relief at 15 minutes following SPG stimulation and device- or procedure-related serious adverse events (SAEs) were evaluated.

Findings

Thirty-two patients were enrolled and 28 completed the randomized experimental period. Pain relief was achieved in 67.1% of full stimulation-treated attacks compared to 7.4% of sham-treated and 7.3% of sub-perception-treated attacks ( p < 0.0001). Nineteen of 28 (68%) patients experienced a clinically significant improvement: seven (25%) achieved pain relief in ≥50% of treated attacks, 10 (36%), a ≥50% reduction in attack frequency, and two (7%), both. Five SAEs occurred and most patients (81%) experienced transient, mild/moderate loss of sensation within distinct maxillary nerve regions; 65% of events resolved within three months.

Interpretation

On-demand SPG stimulation using the ATI Neurostimulation System is an effective novel therapy for CCH sufferers, with dual beneficial effects, acute pain relief and observed attack prevention, and has an acceptable safety profile compared to similar surgical procedures.
The use of multi-criteria decision analysis to tackle waste management problems: a literature review
Authors: Achillas Charisios , Moussiopoulos Nicolas , Karagiannidis Avraam , Banias Georgias , Perkoulidis George
Published: January 2013

Problems in waste management have become more and more complex during recent decades. The increasing volumes of waste produced and social environmental consciousness present prominent drivers for environmental managers towards the achievement of a sustainable waste management scheme. However, in practice, there are many factors and influences – often mutually conflicting – criteria for finding solutions in real-life applications. This paper presents a review of the literature on multi-criteria decision aiding in waste management problems for all reported waste streams. Despite limitations, which are clearly stated, most of the work published in this field is reviewed. The present review aims to provide environmental managers and decision-makers with a thorough list of practical applications of the multi-criteria decision analysis techniques that are used to solve real-life waste management problems, as well as the criteria that are mostly employed in such applications according to the nature of the problem under study. Moreover, the paper explores the advantages and disadvantages of using multi-criteria decision analysis techniques in waste management problems in comparison to other available alternatives.
SPH-based numerical simulations of flow slides in municipal solid waste landfills
Authors: Huang Yu , Dai Zili , Zhang Weijie , Huang Maosong
Published: January 2013

Most municipal solid waste (MSW) is disposed of in landfills. Over the past few decades, catastrophic flow slides have occurred in MSW landfills around the world, causing substantial economic damage and occasionally resulting in human victims. It is therefore important to predict the run-out, velocity and depth of such slides in order to provide adequate mitigation and protection measures. To overcome the limitations of traditional numerical methods for modelling flow slides, a mesh-free particle method entitled smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) is introduced in this paper. The Navier–Stokes equations were adopted as the governing equations and a Bingham model was adopted to analyse the relationship between material stress rates and particle motion velocity. The accuracy of the model is assessed using a series of verifications, and then flow slides that occurred in landfills located in Sarajevo and Bandung were simulated to extend its applications. The simulated results match the field data well and highlight the capability of the proposed SPH modelling method to simulate such complex phenomena as flow slides in MSW landfills.
Removal of chloride from fly ash produced in hazardous waste incineration by leaching and displacement washing in a vertical filter press
Authors: Kinnarinen Teemu , Huhtanen Mikko , Penttilä Mika , Häkkinen Antti
Published: January 2013

Fly ash is generated in large quantities by waste incineration processes. Chloride is commonly present in the fly ash produced by the incineration of hazardous materials, such as polyvinylchloride plastic. Major difficulties related to the disposal and handling of fly ash include the high concentration of easily leachable chlorides, heavy metals and toxic compounds. In order to avoid adverse environmental effects from the disposal of fly ash, the content of soluble chlorides must be reduced. One of the most effective options for chloride removal is leaching and displacement washing in a filter press. The primary aim of this study was to obtain efficient removal of chloride from fly ash by utilizing a leaching and displacement washing process, carried out in a filter press. The secondary objective was to obtain high filtration capacities and low filter cake moisture contents. The slurry was prepared by mixing fly ash with water at an ash:water ratio of 1:2 and filtered to separate the solids from the liquid. After solid–liquid separation, most of the dissolved residual chloride was removed from the filter cake by washing the cake with fresh water in the second stage of separation. It was possible to remove up to 98% of the total chloride and to obtain sufficient filtration capacities. The residual moisture content of the filter cakes varied from 22 to 35 wt%, which meant that the cakes could be disposed of in landfill, or possibly utilized as a construction material.
Development and application of a multiple linear regression model to consider the impact of weekly waste container capacity on the yield from kerbside recycling programmes in Scotland
Authors: Baird Jim , Curry Robin , Reid Tim
Published: January 2013

This article describes the development and application of a multiple linear regression model to identify how the key elements of waste and recycling infrastructure, namely container capacity and frequency of collection, affect the yield from municipal kerbside recycling programmes. The overall aim of the research was to gain an understanding of the factors affecting the yield from municipal kerbside recycling programmes in Scotland with an underlying objective to evaluate the efficacy of the model as a decision-support tool for informing the design of kerbside recycling programmes. The study isolates the principal kerbside collection service offered by all 32 councils across Scotland, eliminating those recycling programmes associated with flatted properties or multi-occupancies. The results of the regression analysis model have identified three principal factors which explain 80% of the variability in the average yield of the principal dry recyclate services: weekly residual waste capacity, number of materials collected and the weekly recycling capacity. The use of the model has been evaluated and recommendations made on ongoing methodological development and the use of the results in informing the design of kerbside recycling programmes. We hope that the research can provide insights for the further development of methods to optimise the design and operation of kerbside recycling programmes.
Effect of temperature on hydration of geosynthetic clay liners in landfills
Authors: Barclay Arden , Rayhani Mohammad T
Published: January 2013

Geosynthetic clay liners (GCLs) have gained popularity as a barrier system in modern landfill construction. As such, it is depended upon to provide a level of impermeability to prevent the escape of contaminants into the surrounding soil and groundwater. It has been proven that a GCL’s hydraulic conductivity is closely related to its moisture content. GCLs are known to absorb moisture from the underlying soil after installation. In a landfill, temperatures near the liner can reach upwards of 55ºC. The effect of these elevated temperatures on the hydration process of the GCL was determined for two types of GCL over two types of subsoil: sand and clay. It was found that elevated temperatures prevented the GCL from reaching moisture content levels that would be acceptable in a real-life scenario. Temperatures in landfills could be expected to cause a GCL to reach a moisture equilibrium at roughly 16% gravimetric moisture content, where GCL at room temperature would reach higher than 100% gravimetric moisture content. The significant difference in moisture equilibrium of GCLs at different temperatures may suggest that the heat naturally produced in landfills could negatively affect the liner’s hydraulic performance. The importance of allowing a GCL to properly hydrate before heat exposure must be better understood in order to minimize the potential negative effect of a landfill on our environment and our livelihood. This study also confirmed that the hydration potential of GCL depends on the method of GCL manufacture and the subsoil characteristics.
Construction and demolition waste indicators
Authors: Mália Miguel , de Brito Jorge , Pinheiro Manuel Duarte , Bravo Miguel
Published: January 2013

The construction industry is one of the biggest and most active sectors of the European Union (EU), consuming more raw materials and energy than any other economic activity. Furthermore, construction waste is the commonest waste produced in the EU. Current EU legislation sets out to implement construction and demolition waste (CDW) prevention and recycling measures. However it lacks tools to accelerate the development of a sector as bound by tradition as the building industry. The main objective of the present study was to determine indicators to estimate the amount of CDW generated on site both globally and by waste stream. CDW generation was estimated for six specific sectors: new residential construction, new non-residential construction, residential demolition, non-residential demolition, residential refurbishment, and non-residential refurbishment. The data needed to develop the indicators was collected through an exhaustive survey of previous international studies. The indicators determined suggest that the average composition of waste generated on site is mostly concrete and ceramic materials. Specifically for new residential and new non-residential construction the production of concrete waste in buildings with a reinforced concrete structure lies between 17.8 and 32.9 kg m−2 and between 18.3 and 40.1 kg m−2, respectively. For the residential and non-residential demolition sectors the production of this waste stream in buildings with a reinforced concrete structure varies from 492 to 840 kg m−2 and from 401 to 768 kg/m−2, respectively. For the residential and non-residential refurbishment sectors the production of concrete waste in buildings lies between 18.9 and 45.9 kg/m−2 and between 18.9 and 191.2 kg/m−2, respectively.