bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Analysis of a Wideband Strip-Helical Antenna with 1.1 Turns
Authors: Tang Xihui , Feng Botao , Long Yunliang
Published: January 2016

A wideband strip-helical antenna with 1.1 turns is analyzed numerically and experimentally. By replacing the traditional wire helix with wide metallic strip, the forward traveling current on the strip helix with about one turn smoothly decays to the minimum value at the open end of the helix. Therefore, the strip helix can excite a wideband circular polarization (CP) wave with 50-ohm impedance matching. The proposed antenna is printed on a hollow-cylinder with a substrate relative permittivity ofεr=2.2and a thickness ofh=0.5 mm. A 50 Ω coaxial cable is directly connected to excite the strip-helical antenna without any additional impedance matching section. The ground plane is placed below the antenna in order to provide a directional radiation pattern. To demonstrate this method, a prototype of 1.1-turn strip-helical antenna is tested. The test shows that the proposed antenna can reach an overlapped bandwidth of 46% with height of 0.52λ0, whereλ0is the wavelength in free space at the center operation frequency.
Encoding and Recognition Processing of Chinese Characters: A Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study
Authors: Zheng Jinlong , Shu Siyun , Wang Bin , Tian Xiangyang , Bao Xinmin , Wu Yongming , Zhang Zengqiang , Cao Xiangyang , Ma Lin
Published: January 2016

This study aimed to investigate the conceptual memory processes that underlie encoding and recognition processing of Chinese characters. Healthy participants (n=14) performed a semantic-relatedness paradigm using categorically related logogram pairs from four different categories (fruit, animal, tool, and clothing). During intentional encoding, subjects were instructed to make semantic judgments and select category-correlated features to bind and memorize logogram pairs. During recognition, subjects were asked to recognize the memorized items. The MATLAB software and spatial clustering analysis were used for image data processing. Compared with baseline, encoding mainly activated BA13, with significant effects in BA6/8/9/46/45/47, BA24, BA7/39/40, BA37/20, and BA18/19; meanwhile, recognition mainly activated BA6/8/9/10/13/45/46/47, BA31, BA7/40, and BA18/19. Compared with recognition, encoding activated BA18/19/37/20/36 with a peak activation area in BA18. Compared with encoding, recognition significantly activated BA7, BA31/32, and BA10. In conclusion, distributed networks of discrete cortical regions with distinct roles are active during semantic processing of logograms. The ventral occipitotemporal and inferior frontal regions display increased levels of encoding-related activity. The dorsal medial brain regions, including the superior frontal gyrus and occipitoparietal regions, are associated with recognition-related activity.
Detection of Abrupt Changes in Runoff in the Weihe River Basin
Authors: Li Yanling , Chang Jianxia , Wang Zhiliang , Li Huiling
Published: January 2016

Climate change and human activities are two major driving factors for variations in hydrological patterns globally, and it is of significant importance to distinguish their effects on the change of hydrological regime in order to formulate robust water management strategies. Hilbert-Huang transform-based time-frequency analysis is employed in this study to detect abrupt changes and periods of the runoff at five hydrological stations in the Weihe River Basin, China, from 1951 to 2010. The key part of the method is the empirical decomposition mode with which any complicated data set can be decomposed into small number of intrinsic mode functions that admit well adaptive Hilbert transforms. Moreover, an attempt has been made to find out the specific reason for the abrupt point at the five hydrological stations in the Weihe River Basin. The results are presented as follows: (1) annual runoff significantly declined in the basin in intervals of 8~15 years; (2) abrupt changes occurred in 1971, 1982, and 1994 at Huaxian, 1972 and 1982 at Xianyang, 1992 at Zhangjiashan, 1990 at Zhuangtou, and 1984 at Beidao; (3) changes were more frequent and complex in the mainstream and downstream reaches than in tributaries and upstream reaches, respectively.
Investigation for Synchronization of a Rotor-Pendulum System considering the Multi-DOF Vibration
Authors: Hou Yongjun , Fang Pan
Published: January 2016

This work is a continuation for our published literature for vibration synchronization. A new mechanism, two rotors coupled with a pendulum rod in a multi-DOF vibration system, is proposed to implement coupling synchronization, and the dynamics equation of mechanism is derived by Lagrange equation. In addition, the coupling relationship between the vibrobody and the pendulum rod is ascertained with the Laplace transformation method, based on the dimensionless equation of the dynamics system. The Poincare method is employed to study the synchronization state between the two unbalanced rotors, which is converted into that of existence and the stability of solutions for synchronization-balance equations. The obtained results are supported by computer simulations. It is demonstrated that the values of the spring stiffness coefficient, the length of the pendulum, and the angular installation of the pendulum are important parameters with respect to the synchronous behavior in the rotor-pendulum system.
Clinical Applicability of Various Treatment Approaches for Upper Gastrointestinal Submucosal Tumors
Authors: Zhang Jing , Huang Kaili , Ding Shigang , Wang Ye , Nai Te , Huang Yonghui , Zhou Liya
Published: January 2016

Submucosal tumor (SMT) is a disease that is commonly discovered during endoscopic examination. With advances in endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) technology, this technique has become the primary screening method for the diagnosis of upper gastrointestinal SMTs. The present study summarized the clinical data of patients who were examined and diagnosed with upper gastrointestinal SMTs by EUS, underwent endoscopic therapy or surgical treatment, and received final pathological results in our hospital between January 2011 and September 2014. Our results show that endoscopic therapy has become the main approach for the treatment of upper gastrointestinal SMTs with the development and maturation of endoscopic technology in recent years. Our conclusion suggests that the selection of endoscopic methods, such as endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), and peroral submucosal tunneling endoscopic resection (STER), under the guidance of EUS is safe and effective for the treatment of upper gastrointestinal SMTs.
Parametric Study of Strain Rate Effects on Nanoparticle-Reinforced Polymer Composites
Authors: Soltannia B. , Haji Gholami I. , Masajedian S. , Mertiny P. , Sameoto D. , Taheri F.
Published: January 2016

Crashworthiness, energy absorption capacity, and safety are important factors in the design of lightweight vehicles made of fiber-reinforced polymer composite (FRP) components. The relatively recent emergence of the nanotechnology industry has presented a novel means to augment the mechanical properties of various materials. As a result, recent attempts have contemplated the use of nanoparticles to further improve the resiliency of resins, especially when resins are used for mating FRP components. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the response of nanoreinforced polymer composites, subjected to various rates of loading, is of paramount importance for developing reliable structures. In this paper, the effects of nanoreinforcement on the mechanical response of a commonly used epoxy resin subjected to four different strain rates, are systematically investigated. The results are then compared to those of the neat resin. To characterize the mechanical properties of the nanocomposite, a combination of the strain rate-dependent mechanical (SRDM) model of Goldberg and his coworkers and Halpin-Tsai’s micromechanical approach is employed. Subsequently, a parametric study is conducted to ascertain the influences of particle type and their weight percentage. Finally, the numerical results are compared to the experimental data obtained from testing of the neat and the nanoreinforced epoxy resin.
Polymorphisms in the SLC12A3 Gene Encoding Sodium-Chloride Cotransporter are Associated with Hypertension: A Family-Based Study in the Mongolian Population
Authors: An Caiyan , Liang Junqing , Zhang Kejin , Su Xiulan
Published: January 2016

Background/Aims: Hypertension or persistent high blood pressure (BP) is a leading cause of death worldwide. Extensive evidence indicates that the thiazide-sensitive Na+-Cl- cotrans-porter (NCC) affects BP via regulation of renal sodium reabsorption. However, the relationship between genetic variants of the NCC-encoding SLC12A3 gene and hypertension in the Mongolian population is still ambiguous. In this study, we aimed to genotype an extended cohort of hypertensive Mongolian families for polymorphisms in the SLC12A3 locus. Methods: Eighty-eight families with a history of hypertension, including parents, offspring, and relatives underwent clinical testing. Family-based association tests and haplotype analysis were used to evaluate the association between hypertension and polymorphisms in the SLC12A3 locus. Results: We identified three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), one in the SLC12A3 coding region (p = 0.05) and two in the intron (p = 0.02 and p = 0.07), which were significantly associated with the hypertension phenotype. Haplotype-specific association tests confirmed the correlation of these SNPs with hypertension (p < 0.05). Conclusion: These results suggest that SNPs in the SLC12A3 gene confer susceptibility to hypertension in the Mongolian population. Further research is needed to validate the functional role of SLC12A3 polymorphisms in hypertension.
Hypertensive/Microvascular Disease and COPD: a Case Control Study
Authors: Chew Sky KH , Colville Deb , Canty Piers , Hutchinson Anastasia , Wong Alex , Luong Vi , Wong Tien Y , McDonald Christine , Savige Judy
Published: January 2016

Background/Aims: This study tested the hypothesis that individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have more small vessel disease and more severe disease than an age- and gender- matched hospital patient comparison group. Methods: This was a single centre, case-control study of 151 individuals with COPD (FEV1/VC) < 0.7 recruited consecutively immediately after respiratory function tests at a Melbourne teaching hospital over a 4 month period in 2010. Controls were individuals with normal respiratory function tests recruited contemporaneously from the same centre. Retinal images were obtained with a nonmydriatic camera (KOWA or Canon CR5-45NM), deidentiifed and graded by two trained graders for microvascular retinopathy (Wong and Mitchell classification), and vessel calibre using a computer-assisted method and Knudtson's modification of the Parr-Hubbard formula. Differences in microvascular retinopathy and vessel calibre between COPD patients and the comparison group were examined using Fisher's exact test or the t test (StataCorp, Texas). Results: Patients with COPD had more microvascular retinopathy (121, 80% and 76, 50%; OR 3.98, 95%CI 2.39 to 6.64) and more severe disease (42, 28% and 18, 12%; OR 2.85, 95% CI 1.55 to 5.23) than other hospital patients. COPD remained an independent determinant of microvascular retinopathy (OR 4.56, 95%CI 2.49 to 8.36) after adjusting for gender, hypertension, smoking, and diabetes duration. Retinal arterioles and venules were wider in patients with COPD than other hospital patients (mean difference +6.5µm, 95% confidence interval 1.4 to 11.6; and +17.4µm, 95%CI 9.4 to 25.5, respectively). Larger venules were more common in younger individuals (+0.6 µm, 0.1 to 1.17) with more cigarette exposure (+0.3 µm, 0.2 to 0.5) or a lower serum albumin (+23.0 µm, 6.0 to 40.0). Venular calibre was not different in current and former smokers (p=0.77). There were trends for venules to be larger with more severe COPD (lower FEV1/VC, p=0.09) and with CT-demonstrated emphysema (p=0.06). Conclusions: Hypertensive/microvascular disease is more common and more severe in patients with COPD. This is likely to contribute to the associated increase in cardiac risk.
Real-World Outcomes of Combination Chemotherapy with Trabectedin plus Pegylated Liposomal Doxorubicin in Patients with Recurrent Ovarian Cancer: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Moriceau Guillaume , Rivoirard Romain , Méry Benoîte , Vallard Alexis , Pacaut Cécile , Trone Jane-Chloé , Espenel Sophie , Bosacki Claire , Jacquin Jean-Philippe , Magné Nicolas
Published: January 2016

Background: Trabectedin plus pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD) proved efficacious as second-line treatment for patients with recurrent ovarian cancer (ROC). Methods: We report a single-center retrospective analysis of the efficacy and tolerance of trabectedin 1.1 mg/m2 every 3 weeks in a cohort of real-life ROC patients. Results: From February 2012 to January 2014, 17 patients were treated with trabectedin alone or combined with PLD. Median age was 61 years (range: 48-78). Performance status was 0-1 in 16 patients (94%). Disease response rate was 53% and disease control rate was 76%. At the end of the follow-up, 8 patients (47%) were alive. Median overall survival was 17.6 months (95% CI 13.6 to not reached). Median progression-free survival was 6.7 months (95% CI 5.4-10.0). The most frequent grade 3-4 toxicities were neutropenia (n = 4, 24%) and nausea/vomiting (n = 4, 24%). Conclusion: Trabectedin combined with PLD seems efficient in and well tolerated by real-life ROC patients.
Frequency and Risk Factors for Cerebral Arterial Disease in a HIV/AIDS Neuroimaging Cohort
Authors: Edwards Nancy J. , Grill Marie F. , Choi H. Alex , Ko Nerissa U.
Published: January 2016

Background: Infection with HIV predisposes patients to a myriad of neurologic disorders, including cerebrovascular disease. The pathophysiology is likely multifactorial, with proposed mechanisms including infectious vasculitis, HIV-induced endothelial dysfunction and adverse effects of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART). Epidemiologic data on clinically evident cerebral vasculopathy in HIV-infected adults is scarce, even though stroke hospitalizations are rising in this patient population. Methods: A total of 6,298 HIV-infected adults (San Francisco General Hospital, 2000-2013) were screened to generate a cohort of patients with dedicated neuroimaging of the intra- and extracranial cerebral vasculature. We extracted information regarding the extent of HIV disease (including serial viral load and CD4 counts), cardiovascular disease risk factors and exposure to cART (cross-referenced with pharmacy records) and performed multivariate logistic regression analysis to identify predictors of vasculopathy. Results: Of 144 patients, 55 patients (38.2%) had radiographic evidence of cerebral vasculopathy. Twenty (13.9%) had a vasculopathy characterized by vessel dolichoectasia and intracranial aneurysm formation. Thirty-five patients (24.3%) had intra- and or extracranial stenosis/occlusion. cART use (OR 2.27, 95% CI 1.03-5) and tobacco abuse (OR 2.35, 95% CI 1.04-5.25) were independently associated with the development of any vasculopathy, whereas cART use was also an independent risk factor for the stenosis/occlusion subtype specifically (OR 2.87, 95% CI 1.11-7.45). Conclusions: There was a high frequency of cerebral arterial disease in this neuroimaging cohort of HIV/AIDS patients. A history of cART use and a history of tobacco abuse were independent risk factors for vasculopathy, though these findings should be confirmed with large-scale prospective studies.
Predictors of Dropout by Female Obese Patients Treated with a Group Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to Promote Weight Loss
Authors: Sawamoto Ryoko , Nozaki Takehiro , Furukawa Tomokazu , Tanahashi Tokusei , Morita Chihiro , Hata Tomokazu , Komaki Gen , Sudo Nobuyuki
Published: January 2016

Objective: To investigate predictors of dropout from a group cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) intervention for overweight or obese women. Methods: 119 overweight and obese Japanese women aged 25-65 years who attended an outpatient weight loss intervention were followed throughout the 7-month weight loss phase. Somatic characteristics, socioeconomic status, obesity-related diseases, diet and exercise habits, and psychological variables (depression, anxiety, self-esteem, alexithymia, parenting style, perfectionism, and eating attitude) were assessed at baseline. Significant variables, extracted by univariate statistical analysis, were then used as independent variables in a stepwise multiple logistic regression analysis with dropout as the dependent variable. Results: 90 participants completed the weight loss phase, giving a dropout rate of 24.4%. The multiple logistic regression analysis demonstrated that compared to completers the dropouts had significantly stronger body shape concern, tended to not have jobs, perceived their mothers to be less caring, and were more disorganized in temperament. Of all these factors, the best predictor of dropout was shape concern. Conclusion: Shape concern, job condition, parenting care, and organization predicted dropout from the group CBT weight loss intervention for overweight or obese Japanese women.
The Role of Platelet-Derived Growth Factor-B/Platelet-Derived Growth Factor Receptor-β Signaling in Chronic Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Jiang Zhiyuan , Zhong Guoqiang , Wen Lina , Hong Yujie , Fang Shu , Sun Peizhen , Li Shuo , Li Shanshan , Feng Guirong
Published: January 2016

Objective: To explore the role of platelet-derived growth factor-B (PDGF-B)/platelet-derived growth factor receptor-β (PDGFR-β) signaling in chronic atrial fibrillation (AF). Methods: Thirty-nine AF patients and 33 patients with sinus rhythm (SR) were enrolled. Twenty canines were randomized into 5 groups: control, sham and AF lasting 1, 2 or 4 weeks. The AF canine models were made by rapid atrial pacing. Rat atrial fibroblasts were treated with PDGF-BB or PDGF-BB + PDGFR inhibitor AG1295, respectively. Gene expression in the right atrial appendage of patients, the left atrium of canines and rat atrial fibroblasts was measured by quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot, respectively. The degree of atrial fibrosis was evaluated by Masson trichrome staining. Results: The degree of atrial fibrosis and the expression of PDGF-B, PDGFR-β and collagen type I (COL1) in AF patients significantly increased compared to patients with SR. The degree of atrial fibrosis and the expression of PDGF-B and COL1 in canines increased progressively with the increased duration of AF. The expression of PDGFR-β increased progressively 2 weeks after AF. PDGF-BB promoted the proliferation and COL1 secretion of rat atrial fibroblasts. AG1295 attenuated these effects. Conclusions: Our study suggests that PDGF-B/PDGFR-β signaling, which promotes the proliferation and COL1 secretion of atrial fibroblasts, is an important contributor to atrial fibrosis in AF and may represent a novel target for the intervention of AF.
The Ratio of Docosahexaenoic Acid and Arachidonic Acid in Infant Formula Influences the Fatty Acid Composition of the Erythrocyte Membrane in Low-Birth-Weight Infants
Authors: Kitamura Tomohiro , Kitamura Yohei , Hamano Hirokazu , Shoji Hiromichi , Shimizu Takashi , Shimizu Toshiaki
Published: January 2016

Objective: The arachidonic acid (ARA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) contents in the infant formula influence on the growth and development of low-birth-weight infants (LBWI). In Japan, many infant formulas are fortified only with DHA. We investigated the safety and efficacy of an infant formula (H2025A) fortified with DHA and ARA (DHA/ARA ratio of 2:1, the same as that in Japanese breast milk). Methods: In this randomized double-blind trial, 35 LBWI were randomly allocated to 2 groups fed with H2025A or an infant formula fortified only with DHA (control formula) after discharge from the NICU. The duration of this study was one month, and the growth and fatty acid composition of the erythrocyte membrane were compared between the 2 groups. Results: No difference was found in the body weight gain, height gain and head circumstance gain development between the 2 groups, and no adverse event occurred in both groups. The ARA content of the erythrocyte membrane after feeding for 1 month was significantly higher in the H2025A group than in the control group. On analysis adjusted with the breast-fed ratio, the ARA and DHA contents were significantly higher in the H2025A group. Conclusion: It was suggested that H2025A significantly increased the ARA and DHA contents of the erythrocyte membrane of LBWI compared to the contents of the control formula.
Deletion of Hyaluronan Synthase 3 Inhibits Neointimal Hyperplasia in Mice
Authors: Kiene Lena S. , Homann Susanne , Suvorava Tatsiana , Rabausch Berit , Müller Julia , Kojda Georg , Kretschmer Inga , Twarock Sören , Dai Guang , Deenen René , Hartwig Sonja , Lehr Stefan , Köhrer Karl , Savani Rashmin C. , Grandoch Maria , Fischer Jens W.
Published: January 2016

Objective—

Hyaluronan (HA) is a polymeric glucosaminoglycan that forms a provisional extracellular matrix in diseased vessels. HA is synthesized by 3 different HA synthases (HAS1, HAS2, and HAS3). Aim of this study was to unravel the role of the HAS3 isoenzyme during experimental neointimal hyperplasia.

Approach and Results—

Neointimal hyperplasia was induced in
Has3
-deficient mice by ligation of the carotid artery. HA in the media of
Has3
-deficient mice was decreased 28 days after ligation, and neointimal hyperplasia was strongly inhibited. However, medial and luminal areas were unaffected. Cell density, proliferation, and apoptosis were not altered, suggesting a proportional decrease of both, the number of cells and extracellular matrix. In addition, endothelial function as determined by acetylcholine-induced relaxation of aortic rings, immunoblotting of endothelial nitric oxide synthase, and arterial blood pressure were not affected. Furthermore, the oxidative stress response was not affected as determined in total protein extracts from aortae. Transcriptome analysis comparing control versus ligated carotid arteries hinted toward a mitigated differential regulation of various signaling pathways in
Has3
-deficient mice in response to ligation that were related to vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) migration, including focal adhesions, integrins, mitogen-activated protein kinase, and phosphatidylinositol signaling system. Lentiviral overexpression of
HAS3
in VSMC supported the migratory phenotype of VSMC in response to platelet-derived growth factor BB in vitro. Accordingly, knockdown of
HAS3
reduced the migratory response to platelet-derived growth factor BB and in addition decreased the expression of
PDGF-B
mRNA.

Conclusions—

HAS3-mediated HA synthesis after vessel injury supports seminal signaling pathways in activation of VSMC, increases platelet-derived growth factor BB–mediated migration, and in turn enhances neointimal hyperplasia in vivo.
Teucrium tomentosum B.Heyne ex Benth. (Lamiaceae), an unnoticed later homonym for almost two centuries
Authors: Kumar Venkatachalam Sampath , Chakrabarty Tapas
Published: January 2016

Teucrium tomentosum Heyne ex Bentham (1830: 58) was described based on the specimens presumably collected by Benjamin Heyne from peninsular India. This name was used for almost two centuries in Indian and Ceylonese floras (e.g. Hooker 1885, Trimen 1895, Willis 1911, Gamble 1924, Mukerjee 1940, Cramer 1981, Rani & Mathew 1983, Sharma et al. 1984, Srinivasan 1987). However, the Bentham’s name is an illegitimate later homonym of T. tomentosum Lamarck (1779: 407) and T. tomentosum Moench (1794: 382). A new name is proposed here for this later homonym.
Two new species of the ant-eating spider genus Tropizodium Jocqué & Churchill, 2005 (Araneae, Zodariidae, Zodariinae) from India
Authors: PRAJAPATI DHRUV A. , MURTHAPPA PRASHANTHAKUMARA S. , SANKARAN PRADEEP M. , SEBASTIAN POTHALIL A.
Published: January 2016

Two new species, Tropizodium kalami sp. n. and Tropizodium viridurbium sp. n. from the genus Tropizodium are described from India. Detailed morphological descriptions, diagnostic features and illustrations of copulatory organs are given. Distribution of both the new species is mapped.
Descriptions of the mature larvae for two species of Pseudopyrochroa from Taiwan (Coleoptera: Pyrochroidae: Pyrochroinae), with notes on their natural history
Authors: YOUNG DANIEL K. , HSIAO YUN , LIANG WEI-REN , LEE CHI-FENG
Published: January 2016

Field collections and rearing have established the first species-level associations for larvae of Pyrochroidae from Taiwan. Larvae of Pseudopyrochroa carinifrons and Pseudopyrochroa fainanensis were collected from beneath bark and in coarse, decaying woody debris of dead logs and successfully reared to the respective adult stages. The mature larvae are described and salient features are illustrated. Notes on larval habitats and natural history are also provided.
Assessing Surface Solar Radiation Fluxes in the CMIP Ensembles
Authors: Loew Alexander , Andersson Axel , Trentmann Jörg , Schröder Marc
Published: January 2016

Earth system models are indispensable tools in climate studies. The Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP) is a coordinated effort of the Earth system modeling community to intercompare existing models. An accurate simulation of surface solar radiation fluxes is of major importance for the accuracy of simulations of the near-surface climate in Earth system models. The present study provides a quantitative assessment of the accuracy and multidecadal changes of surface solar radiation fluxes for model results from two phases of CMIP. The entire archives of phase 5 of CMIP (CMIP5) and its predecessor phase 3 (CMIP3) are analyzed for present-day climate conditions. A relative model ranking is provided, and its uncertainty is quantified using different global observational records. It is shown that the choice of an observational dataset can have a major influence on relative model ranking between CMIP models. However the multidecadal variability of surface solar radiation fluxes, also known as global “dimming” or “brightening,” is largely underestimated by the CMIP models.
The Positive North Atlantic Oscillation with Downstream Blocking and Middle East Snowstorms: Impacts of the North Atlantic Jet
Authors: Yao Yao , Luo Dehai , Dai Aiguo , Feldstein Steven B.
Published: January 2016

A recent study revealed that cold winter outbreaks over the Middle East and southeastern Europe are caused mainly by the northeast–southwest (NE–SW) tilting of European blocking (EB) associated with the positive-phase North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO+). Here, the North Atlantic conditions are examined that determine the EB tilting direction, defined as being perpendicular to the dipole anomaly orientation. Using daily reanalysis data, the NAO+ events are classified into strong (SJN) and weak (WJN) North Atlantic jet types. A composite analysis shows that the EB is generally stronger and located more westward and southward during SJN events than during WJN events. During SJN events, the NAO+ and EB dipoles exhibit NE–SW tilting, which leads to strong cold advection and large negative temperature anomalies over the Middle East and southeastern Europe. In contrast, northwest–southeast (NW–SE) tilting without strong negative temperature anomalies over the Middle East is seen during WJN events.

A nonlinear multiscale interaction model is modified to investigate the physical mechanism through which the North Atlantic jet (NAJ) affects EB with the NAO+ event. It is shown that, when the NAJ is stronger, an amplified EB event forms because of enhanced NAO+ energy dispersion. For a strong (weak) NAJ, the EB tends to occur in a relatively low-latitude (high latitude) region because of the suppressive (favorable) role of intensified (reduced) zonal wind in high latitudes. It exhibits NE–SW (NW–SE) tilting because the blocking region corresponds to negative-over-positive (opposite) zonal wind anomalies. The results suggest that the NAJ can modulate the tilting direction of EB, leading to different effects over the Middle East.
The predictive value of low plasma copper and high plasma zinc in detecting zinc-induced copper deficiency
Authors: Duncan Andrew , Talwar Dinesh , Morrison Ian
Published: January 2016

Background

Zinc-induced copper deficiency is a condition whose diagnosis is often delayed allowing severe and usually irreversible neurology symptoms to develop. Plasma copper concentrations are usually low and plasma zinc concentrations high. The aim of this study was to measure the predictive value of this combination of results as a means of facilitating its early diagnosis.

Methods

Low plasma copper (≤6  µmol/L) and high plasma zinc results (>18  µmol/L) were retrieved from the laboratory database from 2000 to 2014. Medical records and laboratory notes of the corresponding 20 patients found were accessed to determine which were likely to have zinc-induced copper deficiency.

Results

Fifteen (75%) patients were diagnosed with zinc-induced copper deficiency which was symptomatic in 13. Of the five remaining patients, two were treated with zinc because of Wilson’s disease which was the cause of hypocupraemia, two were treated parenterally with zinc, and insufficient information was available in the final patient.

Conclusions

The combination of a low plasma copper and high plasma zinc is strongly predictive for the diagnosis of zinc-induced copper deficiency. There is the therefore an opportunity for the reporting biochemist to facilitate in its earlier diagnosis so enabling treatment to be implemented before the condition deteriorates.
Social Policies, Attribution of Responsibility, and Political Alignments
Authors: Niedzwiecki Sara
Published: January 2016

This article assesses how the political context shapes policy implementation in decentralized countries. It finds that effective implementation of non-contributory social policies depends on political alignments across different territorial levels. Subnational units governed by the opposition hinder the implementation of national policies, but only if the policy carries clear attribution of responsibility. On one hand, conditional cash transfers have clear attribution of responsibility and thus, pose risks for opposition subnational governments, who, as a result, have incentives to obstruct such policies. On the other hand, in social services, attribution of responsibility is blurred, and therefore their implementation is not shaped by political alignments. By analyzing policy implementation, disaggregating social policies, and incorporating multilevel political alignments, this article contributes to theories of the welfare state and multilevel governance. The empirical foundation includes an analysis of the factors that shape the successful implementation of social policies in Argentina and Brazil through a combination of pooled time-series analysis and extensive field research.
Living together in multi-ethnic cities: People of migrant background, their interethnic friendships and the neighbourhood
Authors: Pratsinakis Manolis , Hatziprokopiou Panos , Labrianidis Lois , Vogiatzis Nikos
Published: January 2016

This paper explores the extent to which people of different origins, natives and migrants, come together in everyday life in Europe. Instead of looking at overall ‘perceptions’ and ‘stances’, which are context-dependent and mediated through political-ideological currents and discourses as well as broader patterns of prejudice, we focus on sustained close contacts that suggest meaningful and organic relationships. Since it is most often people of migrant background who are blamed for leading ‘parallel lives’ and ‘not integrating’, we chose to focus on them and their interethnic friendships. Moreover, we seek to understand the relevance and role of the neighbourhood context in the development of those relationships. Despite the expressive fears in public discourses about the supposed negative impact of the presence of immigrants and ethnic minorities on social cohesion, our findings indicate that close interethnic relationships are not uncommon in diverse European cities. They further highlight that the neighbourhood context plays an important role in the first years of migrants’ settlement. Relationships in the neighbourhood develop in less formal social settings and are also less demanding in terms of host-country cultural skills on the part of the migrants, thus giving the opportunity to newcomers to develop close interethnic relationships with natives. Finally, the analysis supports the positive role of diversity at the neighbourhood level in the development of interethnic friendships and stresses the importance of the neighbourhood’s socio-spatial characteristics and its location in the wider urban net.
Open Government: Missing Questions
Authors: Pyrozhenko Vadym
Published: January 2016

This article places the Obama administration’s open government initiative within the context of evolution of the U.S. information society. It examines the concept of openness along the three dimensions of Daniel Bell’s social analysis of the postindustrial society: structure, polity, and culture. Four “missing questions” raise the challenge of the compatibility of public service values with the culture of openness, address the right balance between postindustrial information management practices and the capacity of public organizations to accomplish their missions, and ask to reconsider the idea that greater structural openness of public organizations will necessarily increase their democratic legitimacy.
Internalized HIV Stigma and Mindfulness
Authors: Gonzalez Adam , Locicero Briana , Mahaffey Brittain , Fleming Crystal , Harris Jalana , Vujanovic Anka A.
Published: January 2016

Rates of both traumatic event exposure and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD; 22%-54%) are disproportionately elevated among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA). Trauma and related psychopathology significantly affect quality of life and disease management in this patient population. The current study examined associations between internalized HIV stigma, mindfulness skills, and the severity of PTSD symptoms in trauma-exposed PLHA. Participants included 137 PLHA (14.6% female; Mage = 48.94, SD = 8.89) who reported experiencing on average, five ( SD = 2.67) traumatic events; 34% met diagnostic criteria for PTSD. Results indicate that after controlling for sex, age, education, and number of traumatic events, internalized HIV stigma was positively related to overall PTSD symptom severity (β = .16, p < .05) and severity of re-experiencing (β = .19, p < .05) and hyper-arousal (β = .16, p = .05), but not avoidance, PTSD symptom clusters. Among the mindfulness facets measured, acting with awareness was uniquely negatively related to the overall severity of PTSD symptoms (β = − .25, p < .01) and the severity of re-experiencing (β = − .25, p < .05), avoidance (β = − .25, p < .05), and hyper-arousal (β = − .29, p < .01) PTSD symptom clusters. These effects were observed after accounting for covariates and shared variance with other mindfulness facets. Theoretically, the present findings suggest that internalized HIV stigma may serve as a vulnerability factor for the severity of certain PTSD symptoms, whereas acting with awareness may function as a protective or resiliency factor for the severity of PTSD symptoms. Implications for the treatment of trauma-exposed PLHA are discussed.
The Use of iPADs in the Home Setting for Students With Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Dixon Roselyn M. , Verenikina Irina , Costley Debra , Pryor Sally
Published: January 2016

Families and educators have turned to digital tablets to support the unique needs of students with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), due to their ease of use, social acceptance, low cost, and portability. While school-based trial programs are emerging, there is very little research examining collaborative partnerships between families and educators relating to digital tablets. This study employed a qualitative methodology to investigate the use of digital tablets in the home setting to support students with ASD. Underpinned by Moll and Greenberg’s funds of knowledge theoretical framework, the study posited that the use of digital tablets for students with ASD can be enhanced if experiences from the home setting are validated by educators. It used semistructured interviews and anecdotal evidence with four families to explore the various ways digital tablets are used. Data from interviews with four teacher participants in a school-based trial were used to examine the collaboration between homes and schools regarding digital tablet use. The results showed that digital tablets were used daily in their homes. Frequent recreational and educational uses were reported as well as uses that supported behavior and communication. Finally, there were some suggestions in relation to the collaboration between home and school.
Smartpen Applications for Meeting the Needs of Students With Learning Disabilities in Inclusive Classrooms
Authors: Patti Angela L. , Vince Garland Krista
Published: January 2016

As the number of students with disabilities educated in general education classroom settings increases, there is a greater need for appropriate accommodations, modifications and supports to help these students be successful. Assistive technology (AT) tools, which are designed to mediate the difficulties incurred by disabilities, are one way to help students achieve in general education classrooms. For students with learning disabilities or other difficulties with print-based skills, digital pens are an AT device that can assist with both reading and writing tasks. This article focuses on one digital pen, the smartpen, manufactured by Livescribe™. The authors outline a number of ways smartpens can be used to meet the needs of students with learning disabilities in the areas of study skills, independent work, and assessment. A classroom-based example of implementation is provided.
Are adult mentalizing abilities associated with mind-mindedness?
Authors: Barreto Ana Luísa , Fearon R. M. Pasco , Osório Ana , Meins Elizabeth , Martins Carla
Published: January 2016

The precise nature of the relation between adult mentalizing abilities and parental representations of the child as a mental agent (mind-mindedness) is under current debate. While some authors state that it is the same competence expressed in different contexts, others assert that they are different constructs. This study examined the relation between mentalizing and mind-mindedness, in mothers and fathers, while investigating their potential links to socio-demographic, parental, and child variables. Participants were 74 families comprising of mother, father, and their preschool-aged child. Controlling for educational level, psychopathological symptoms, and children’s reported temperament, the relation between mentalizing and mind-mindedness was non-significant. Moreover, mentalizing and mind-mindedness were shown to have distinct correlates, supporting the proposal that they are two distinct constructs.
Paying attention and the incumbency effect: Voting behavior in the 2014 Toronto Municipal Election
Authors: Moore Aaron A , McGregor R Michael , Stephenson Laura B
Published: January 2016

The importance of incumbent evaluations for voting and the existence of an incumbency effect are well-established. However, there is limited research on the effect incumbency has on voters’ engagement with election campaigns. This paper examines whether the use of incumbency as a cue when voting is associated with there being less interest in an election and whether campaign period attentiveness affects incumbent support. We consider these questions using data from the Toronto Election Study, a large- N, two-wave survey of Torontonians conducted around the time of the 2014 Toronto Municipal Election. We find that attentiveness, on its own, does not make voters more likely to support an incumbent or non-incumbent candidate. However, among individuals with high knowledge, attentiveness decreases the likelihood of supporting the incumbent, as opposed to a non-incumbent candidate.
Who rebounds in the private transport sector? A comparative analysis between Beijing and Tokyo
Authors: Yu Biying , Zhang Junyi , Fujiwara Akimasa
Published: January 2016

This study explores the direct rebound effect, which indicates the degree of increase in travel demand caused by the increasing vehicle efficiency in the private passenger transport sector. Different from the usual effect, here the direct rebound effect is not assumed to be the same for the entire population. To determine when rebound occurs and who is suffering, two types of triggers, which may lead to different rebound effects among the population, are investigated: vehicle efficiency and travel demand. The quantile regression method is adopted to measure the rebound effect and differentiate it with respect to vehicle efficiency and travel demand. Considering that the rebound effect might have diverse performance in different cities, a comparative analysis between Beijing and Tokyo is conducted. Drawing on the data collected in a household energy consumption survey in Beijing and Tokyo in 2009, the models are estimated and the results reveal significant heterogeneity of the direct rebound effect both in Beijing and Tokyo, but with a much more complicated form in Beijing. For travelers in Beijing, rebound only occurs to those people whose cars are less efficient than 15–18 km/L, and the magnitude of the rebound effect is between 31.8% and 60.2%, varying across travelers with different travel demands. In comparison, in Tokyo, only travelers with low and medium kilometers traveled have the rebound effect, and the effect is inversely related to their travel demand, ranging between 17.1% and 92.3%. The above-identified inter-city and intra-city difference in the rebound effect could contribute to the population and a spatially specific policy scheme in practice.
The South African Cities Network: Towards championing the urban agenda of South Africa
Authors: Abrahams Diane
Published: January 2016

This paper examines the emergence and role of the South African Cities Network (SACN) in the South African urban policy landscape. Since its establishment in 2002 the SACN has evolved as an organisation, which plays an increasingly influential role in defining and framing the urban agenda in South Africa. The article reviews the form, functions, role and practice of the SACN and highlights the role it has assumed in driving urban policy development issues. The argument presented is based on key stakeholder interviewers conducted with the leadership of the SACN and an analysis of the policy reports and outputs generated by the organisation.
Effect of temperature and strain rate on biaxial warp-knitted composite
Authors: Pan Zhongxiang , Zhang Qian , Gu Bohong , Sun Baozhong
Published: January 2016

This investigation aims to study the impact behaviors of biaxial warp-knitted composite materials under the following conditions—strain rates of 1000–3400 s−1; temperatures of 23℃–210℃. Impact compression tests (in the through-thickness direction of specimens) were conducted using the split Hopkinson pressure bar apparatus. A heating device was applied to achieve required temperatures. It was found that high temperatures of 120℃–210℃ led to a softened initial response on the composite’s stress–strain curves. In addition, pre-peak hardening was observed in the specimen when exposed to temperature between 23℃ and 90℃. The latter could be attributed to further compaction with densification effect during through-thickness compression. Finally, two different failure modes were noticed—(1) the shear-oriented failure and (2) the delamination-oriented failure. This was due to the degradation of the tricot, the brittle–ductile transition of the resin, and the thermal stress in the biaxial warp-knitted composite at different temperatures.
Primary antiphospholipid syndrome: absence of premature atherosclerosis in patients without traditional coronary artery disease risk factors
Authors: Andrade D , Bortolotto L , Bonfá E , Borba E
Published: January 2016

Objective

To investigate if patients with Primary Antiphospholipid Syndrome (PAPS) with venous and/or arterial thrombosis without traditional coronary artery disease (CAD) risk factors develop early atherosclerotic vascular damage.

Methods

27 female patients with PAPS (Sidney criteria) and 27 age, body mass index (BMI), and sex matched controls were consecutively selected. Exclusion criteria were: black race, age ≥55 years, traditional cardiovascular risk factors, other thrombophilias or connective tissue diseases, corticosteroids use and pregnancy. All subjects underwent Pulse Wave Velocity (PWV) and Echo-Tracking (ET), both in carotidal bed, to analyse vascular functional properties.

Results

Age ( p = 0.92) and BMI ( p = 0.91) were comparable in both groups. PAPS patients and controls had similar PWV (9.07 ± 1.08 m/s vs 9.42 ± 1.47 m/s, p = 0.34) as well as echo tracking parameters such as intima-media thickness (683 ± 171 µm vs 636 ± 140 µm, p = 0.52), carotideal diameter ( p = 0.26), distensibility ( p = 0.92), compliance coefficients ( p = 0.36) and elastic modulus ( p = 0.78). Patients with exclusively venous thrombosis showed lower PWV than patients with arterial thrombosis (8.55 ± 0.70 m/s vs 9.56 ± 0.94 m/s, p = 0.01), but no difference regarding intima-media thickness (683 ± 171 µm vs 636 ± 140 µm, p = 0.52) was observed.

Conclusion

Patients with PAPS do not seem to be at higher risk of developing premature atherosclerosis. Patients who suffered exclusively venous thrombosis seem to be at lower risk than those with exclusively arterial events. Other studies need to confirm our findings.
Tobacco Use Among Arab Immigrants Living in Colorado
Authors: El Hajj Dana G. , Cook Paul F. , Magilvy Kathy , Galbraith Michael E. , Gilbert Lynn , Corwin Marla
Published: January 2016

Purpose: The authors determined the prevalence of smoking among Arab immigrants living in Colorado. The authors also evaluated the relationship between acculturation and tobacco use, including both cigarettes and hookah among Arab immigrants. Method: A cross-sectional survey of 100 adult Arab immigrants living in Colorado was carried out. Results: The results revealed that 19% of the study participants were current cigarette smokers and 21% were current hookah smokers. Participants who were more integrated into Arab culture were more likely to use tobacco products ( p = .03) and to have family members ( p = .02) and friends who use tobacco products ( p = .007). Conclusions: Acculturation plays a major role in affecting the health habits of Arab immigrants living in Colorado, especially in the area of hookah smoking. Implications for Practice: Understanding some culturally relevant predictors of tobacco use might assist health care providers in designing successful smoking cessation programs.
This Is How We Do It
Authors: Clair Judith A. , Ladge Jamie J. , Cotton Rick
Published: January 2016

“Necessary evils” require employees to psychologically or physically harm others to produce a perceived greater good. Employees can also help others during necessary evils tasks by providing assistance and support to those harmed. Through an inductive, qualitative study of human resources employees’ experiences carrying out downsizing, we explore how the perception of helping the person one has harmed relates to the harm-doer’s ability to withstand the challenges of having to carry out necessary evils. Our research culminates in a theoretical model showing that (a) seven kinds of stressors were associated with participants’ involvement in necessary evils tasks, (b) these stressors triggered a series of negative personal outcomes (negative self-focused emotions, emotional exhaustion, and intention to turnover), and (c) perceived prosocial impacts ameliorated these negative personal outcomes. We discuss the implications our findings for research and practice, address limitations of our study, and offer ideas for future research.