bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Polyphenols from Grape Seeds on Renal Lithiasis
Authors: Grases Felix , Prieto Rafel M. , Fernandez-Cabot Rafel A. , Costa-Bauzá Antonia , Tur Fernando , Torres Jose Juan
Published: March 2015

Nephrolithiasis is a complex disease that results from a combination of factors related to both urine composition and kidney morphoanatomy. Development of calcium oxalate monohydrate papillary calculi is linked to initial subepithelial calcification of renal papilla. Progressive tissue calcification depends on preexisting injury and involves reactive oxygen species. Many plant extracts that protect against oxidative stress manifest antilithiasic activity. Our study focused on determining the effects of polyphenols on a lithiasis rat model. Rats were pretreated with polyphenols and grape seed extracts, followed by posterior induction of hyperoxalosis via treatment with ethylene glycol plus NH4Cl. The concentrations of calcium and other elements in kidney were determined, along with histological examination of kidney and 24 h urine analysis. Significant differences were observed in the renal calcium content between the control plus ethylene glycol-treated group and the epicatechin plus ethylene glycol-treated, red grape seed extract plus ethylene glycol-treated, and white grape seed extract plus ethylene glycol-treated groups, with reductions of about 50%. The antioxidant activity of polyphenols extracted from red and white grape seeds may be critical in the prevention of calcium oxalate monohydrate papillary calculus formation, particularly if calculi are induced by lesions caused by cytotoxic compounds with oxidative capacity.
Gastroscopy in Pediatric Surgery: Indications, Complications, Outcomes, and Ethical Aspects
Authors: Roth Louise , Salö Martin , Hambraeus Mette , Stenström Pernilla , Arnbjörnsson Einar
Published: March 2015

Background.The aim of this study was to map gastroscopies performed at a single tertiary pediatric surgery centre to investigate indications, complications, outcomes, and ethical aspects.Material and Methods.A retrospective study of gastroscopies performed during two time periods (2001–2004 and 2011–2014) was conducted. Data regarding indications, outcomes, and complications of pediatric gastroscopies were analysed from a prospectively collected database.Results.The indications for gastroscopies changed over time. Therefore, 376 gastroscopies performed from 2011 through 2014 were studied separately. The median patient was four years old. The predominant indications were laparoscopic gastrostomy (40%), investigation of gastroenterological conditions (22%), obstruction in the upper gastrointestinal tract (20%), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) (15%), and other indications (3%). Percentages of gastroscopies with no positive findings for each condition were laparoscopic gastrostomy, 100%; gastroenterological conditions, 46%; obstruction in the upper gastrointestinal tract, 36%; GERD, 51%. Furthermore, gastroscopies did not lead to any further action or change in treatment in 45% of gastroenterological conditions and 72% of GERD cases. The overall complication rate was 1%.Conclusion.The results are valuable to educate pediatric surgeons and to inform health care planning when including gastroscopy within clinical practice.
The Improvement Effect of Dispersant in Fluorite Flotation: Determination by the Analysis of XRD and FESEM-EDX
Authors: Li Y. J. , Sun F. Y. , Zhou Y. , Zeng L.
Published: March 2015

Different dispersants were added in the dispersion process to improve the efficiency of fluorite flotation. The types and dosage of dispersant on the improvement of fluorite flotation were investigated; when the sodium polyacrylate (SPA) was used as the dispersant and its addition is 0.5%, the concentrate grade of CaF2increased from 90% to 98% and the fluorite recovery increased from 81% to 85%. Methods of X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and Energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDX) were used to characterize the sample. According to the analysis of results, the optimal sample consisted of CaF2and very little CaCO3in the size range of 0–5 μm. It could be concluded that the mechanism of improvement for the concentrate grade and recovery of CaF2was attributed to the change of potential energy barrier which caused the separation of particles with different charge. All results indicate that SPA has a great potential to be an efficient and cost-effective dispersant for the improvement of fluorite flotation.
Enhanced Vascularization in Hybrid PCL/Gelatin Fibrous Scaffolds with Sustained Release of VEGF
Authors: Wang Kai , Chen Xuejiao , Pan Yiwa , Cui Yun , Zhou Xin , Kong Deling , Zhao Qiang
Published: March 2015

Creating a long-lasting and functional vasculature represents one of the most fundamental challenges in tissue engineering. VEGF has been widely accepted as a potent angiogenic factor involved in the early stages of blood vessel formation. In this study, fibrous scaffolds that consist of PCL and gelatin fibers were fabricated. The gelatin fibers were further functionalized by heparin immobilization, which provides binding sites for VEGF and thus enables the sustained release of VEGF.In vitrorelease test confirms the sustained releasing profile of VEGF, and stable release was observed over a time period of 25 days.In vitrocell assay indicates that VEGF release significantly promoted the proliferation of endothelial cells. More importantly,in vivosubcutaneous implantation reflects that vascularization has been effectively enhanced in the PCL/gelatin scaffolds compared with the PCL counterpart due to the sustained release of VEGF. Therefore, the heparinized PCL/gelatin scaffolds developed in this study may be a promising candidate for regeneration of complex tissues with sufficient vascularization.
The Regulatory Role of MicroRNAs in EMT and Cancer
Authors: Zaravinos Apostolos
Published: March 2015

The epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a powerful process in tumor invasion, metastasis, and tumorigenesis and describes the molecular reprogramming and phenotypic changes that are characterized by a transition from polarized immotile epithelial cells to motile mesenchymal cells. It is now well known that miRNAs are important regulators of malignant transformation and metastasis. The aberrant expression of the miR-200 family in cancer and its involvement in the initiation and progression of malignant transformation has been well demonstrated. The metastasis suppressive role of the miR-200 members is strongly associated with a pathologic EMT. This review describes the most recent advances regarding the influence of miRNAs in EMT and the control they exert in major signaling pathways in various cancers. The ability of the autocrine TGF-β/ZEB/miR-200 signaling regulatory network to control cell plasticity between the epithelial and mesenchymal state is further discussed. Various miRNAs are reported to directly target EMT transcription factors and components of the cell architecture, as well as miRNAs that are able to reverse the EMT process by targeting the Notch and Wnt signaling pathways. The link between cancer stem cells and EMT is also reported and the most recent developments regarding clinical trials that are currently using anti-miRNA constructs are further discussed.
XPS, FTIR, EDX, and XRD Analysis of Al2O3Scales Grown on PM2000 Alloy
Authors: Djebaili K. , Mekhalif Z. , Boumaza A. , Djelloul A.
Published: March 2015

This work is an original example to compare the results obtained after calcination of Al2O3hydroxides and oxidation of alumino-formers alloys. FTIR and XPS signatures were obtained for various oxidation temperatures and compared with those known from the literature about calcination of Al2O3precursors. The aim of this work is to evaluate the use of IR spectroscopy and XPS analysis to probe the structural varieties of Al2O3. For this objective, a study of the PM2000 oxidation at various temperatures was conducted by means of XRD, IR spectroscopy, XPS analysis, EDX analysis, and SEM observations. This allowed us to clearly differentiate the transition Al2O3from theα-Al2O3and, amongst the transition Al2O3, to differentiate the characteristic of the IR spectrum ofγ-δphases from that of theθphase.
Serum Potassium and Glucose Regulation in the ADDITION-Leicester Screening Study
Authors: Carter Patrice , Bodicoat Danielle H. , Quinn Lauren M. , Zaccardi Francesco , Webb David R. , Khunti Kamlesh , Davies Melanie J.
Published: March 2015

Introduction. Previous observational studies have shown conflicting results between plasma K+concentrations and risk of type 2 diabetes. To help clarify the evidence we aimed to determine whether an association existed between serum K+and glucose regulation within a UK multiethnic population.Methods. Participants were recruited as part of the ADDITION Leicester study, a population based screening study. Individuals from primary care between the age of 40 and 75 years if White European or 25 and 75 years if South Asian or Afro Caribbean were recruited. Tests for associations between baseline characteristics and K+quartiles were conducted using linear regression models.Results. Data showed individuals in the lowest K+quartile had significantly greater 2-hour glucose levels (0.53 mmol/L, 95% CI: 0.36 to 0.70,P≤0.001) than those in the highest K+quartile. This estimation did not change with adjustment for potential confounders. Conversely, participants in the lowest K+quartile had a 0.14% lower HbA1c (95% CI −0.19 to −0.10:P≤0.001) compared to those in the highest K+quartile.Conclusion. This cross-sectional analysis demonstrated that lower K+was associated with greater 2 hr glucose. The data supports the possibility that K+may influence glucose regulation and further research is warranted.
GH-Producing Pituitary Adenoma and Concomitant Rathke’s Cleft Cyst: A Case Report and Short Review
Authors: Tamura Ryota , Takahashi Satoshi , Emoto Katsura , Nagashima Hideaki , Toda Masahiro , Yoshida Kazunari
Published: March 2015

Concomitant pituitary adenoma (PA) and Rathke’s cleft cyst (RCC) are rare. In some cases, such PA is known to produce pituitary hormones. A 53-year-old man was admitted to our hospital with a diagnosis of lacunar infarction in the left basal ganglia. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) incidentally showed a suprasellar mass with radiographic features of RCC. When he consulted with a neurosurgical outpatient clinic, acromegaly was suspected based on his appearance. A diagnosis of growth hormone- (GH-) producing PA was confirmed from hormonal examinations and additional MRI. Retrospectively, initial MR images also showed intrasellar mass that is compatible with the diagnosis of PA other than suprasellar RCC. The patient underwent endonasal-endoscopic removal of the PA. Since we judged that the RCC of the patient was asymptomatic, only the PA was completely removed. The postoperative course of the patient was uneventful and GH levels gradually normalized. Only 40 cases of PA with concomitant RCC have been reported to date, including 13 cases of GH-producing PA. In those 13 cases, RCC tended to be located in the sella turcica, and suprasellar RCC like this case appears rare. In a few cases, concomitant RCCs were fenestrated, but GH levels normalized postoperatively as in the cases without RCC fenestration. If radiographic imaging shows typical RCC, and PA is not obvious at first glance, the possibility of concomitant PA still needs to be considered. In terms of treatment, removal of the RCC is not needed to achieve hormone normalization.
Hybrid Prediction and Fractal Hyperspectral Image Compression
Authors: Zhu Shiping , Zhao Dongyu , Wang Fengchao
Published: March 2015

The data size of hyperspectral image is too large for storage and transmission, and it has become a bottleneck restricting its applications. So it is necessary to study a high efficiency compression method for hyperspectral image. Prediction encoding is easy to realize and has been studied widely in the hyperspectral image compression field. Fractal coding has the advantages of high compression ratio, resolution independence, and a fast decoding speed, but its application in the hyperspectral image compression field is not popular. In this paper, we propose a novel algorithm for hyperspectral image compression based on hybrid prediction and fractal. Intraband prediction is implemented to the first band and all the remaining bands are encoded by modified fractal coding algorithm. The proposed algorithm can effectively exploit the spectral correlation in hyperspectral image, since each range block is approximated by the domain block in the adjacent band, which is of the same size as the range block. Experimental results indicate that the proposed algorithm provides very promising performance at low bitrate. Compared to other algorithms, the encoding complexity is lower, the decoding quality has a great enhancement, and the PSNR can be increased by about 5 dB to 10 dB.
Collateral Donor Artery Physiology and the Influence of a Chronic Total Occlusion on Fractional Flow Reserve
Authors: Ladwiniec Andrew , Cunnington Michael S. , Rossington Jennifer , Mather Adam N. , Alahmar Albert , Oliver Richard M. , Nijjer Sukhjinder S. , Davies Justin E. , Thackray Simon , Alamgir Farquad , Hoye Angela
Published: March 2015

Background—

The presence of a concomitant chronic total coronary occlusion (CTO) and a large collateral contribution might alter the fractional flow reserve (FFR) of an interrogated vessel, rendering the FFR unreliable at predicting ischemia should the CTO vessel be revascularized and potentially affecting the decision on optimal revascularization strategy. We tested the hypothesis that donor vessel FFR would significantly change after percutaneous coronary intervention of a concomitant CTO.

Methods and Results—

In consecutive patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention of a CTO, coronary pressure and flow velocity were measured at baseline and hyperemia in proximal and distal segments of both nontarget vessels, before and after percutaneous coronary intervention. Hemodynamics including FFR, absolute coronary flow, and the coronary flow velocity–pressure gradient relation were calculated. After successful percutaneous coronary intervention in 34 of 46 patients, FFR in the predominant donor vessel increased from 0.782 to 0.810 (difference, 0.028 [0.012 to 0.044];
P
=0.001). Mean decrease in baseline donor vessel absolute flow adjusted for rate pressure product: 177.5 to 139.9 mL/min (difference −37.6 [−62.6 to −12.6];
P
=0.005), mean decrease in hyperemic flow: 306.5 to 272.9 mL/min (difference, −33.5 [−58.7 to −8.3];
P
=0.011). Change in predominant donor vessel FFR correlated with angiographic (%) diameter stenosis severity (
r
=0.44;
P
=0.009) and was strongly related to stenosis severity measured by the coronary flow velocity–pressure gradient relation (
r
=0.69;
P
<0.001).

Conclusions—

Recanalization of a CTO results in a modest increase in the FFR of the predominant collateral donor vessel associated with a reduction in coronary flow. A larger increase in FFR is associated with greater coronary stenosis severity.
Longitudinal Relationship Between Cerebral Small-Vessel Disease and Cerebral Blood Flow
Authors: van der Veen Pieternella H. , Muller Majon , Vincken Koen L. , Hendrikse Jeroen , Mali Willem P.T.M. , van der Graaf Yolanda , Geerlings Mirjam I.
Published: March 2015

Background and Purpose—

Cerebral small-vessel disease and cerebral blood flow (CBF) are interrelated. However, the direction of the relationship is unknown, and longitudinal studies are scarce. We investigated the longitudinal relationship between CBF and white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) and lacunes, as representatives of cerebral small-vessel disease, in patients with manifest arterial disease.

Methods—

Within the Second Manifestations of Arterial Disease-Magnetic Resonance (SMART-MR) study, 1.5T brain magnetic resonance imaging, including an MR angiography, was obtained at baseline and after on ≈3.9 years of follow-up in 575 patients with manifest arterial disease (mean age, 57±10 years). Longitudinal associations of WMHs and lacunes with parenchymal CBF (pCBF; per 100-mL brain volume) were estimated using regression analyses, adjusted for age, sex, follow-up time, and baseline brain measures.

Results—

Baseline pCBF was not associated with progression of WMHs and lacunes over time. However, periventricular and deep WMHs at baseline were associated with decline in pCBF; mean (95% confidence interval) decline in pCBF per % intracranial volume increase in periventricular and deep WMH volume was −0.70 (−1.40 to −0.00) and −1.01 (−1.64 to −0.38) mL/min per 100-mL brain volume, respectively. These associations were partly explained by cardiovascular risk factors but remained significant for deep WMHs (mean decline [95% confidence interval] in pCBF per % intracranial volume increase in deep WMH volume was −0.92 [−1.56 to −0.28] mL/min per 100-mL brain volume). Lacunes were not associated with change in pCBF.

Conclusions—

In patients with manifest arterial disease, baseline periventricular and deep WMH volumes were associated with decline in pCBF over time, but baseline pCBF was not associated with progression of WMHs and lacunes over time.
Normobaric Hyperoxia Slows Blood–Brain Barrier Damage and Expands the Therapeutic Time Window for Tissue-Type Plasminogen Activator Treatment in Cerebral Ischemia
Authors: Liang Jia , Qi Zhifeng , Liu Wenlan , Wang Peng , Shi Wenjuan , Dong Wen , Ji Xunming , Luo Yumin , Liu Ke Jian
Published: March 2015

Background and Purpose—

Prolonged ischemia causes blood–brain barrier (BBB) damage and increases the incidence of neurovasculature complications secondary to reperfusion. Therefore, targeting ischemic BBB damage pathogenesis is critical to reducing neurovasculature complications and expanding the therapeutic time window of tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA) thrombolysis. This study investigates whether increasing cerebral tissue P
O
2
through normobaric hyperoxia (NBO) treatment will slow the progression of BBB damage and, thus, improve the outcome of delayed tPA treatment after cerebral ischemia.

Methods—

Rats were exposed to NBO (100% O
2
) or normoxia (21% O
2
) during 3-, 5-, or, 7-hour middle cerebral artery occlusion. Fifteen minutes before reperfusion, tPA was continuously infused to rats for 30 minutes. Neurological score, mortality rate, and BBB permeability were determined. Matrix metalloproteinase-9 was measured by gelatin zymography and tight junction proteins (occludin and cluadin-5) by Western blot in the isolated cerebral microvessels.

Results—

NBO slowed the progression of ischemic BBB damage pathogenesis, evidenced by reduced Evan blue leakage, smaller edema, and hemorrhagic volume in NBO-treated rats. NBO treatment reduced matrix metalloproteinase-9 induction and the loss of tight junction proteins in ischemic cerebral microvessels. NBO-afforded BBB protection was maintained during tPA reperfusion, resulting in improved neurological functions, significant reductions in brain edema, hemorrhagic volume, and mortality rate, even when tPA was given after prolonged ischemia (7 hours).

Conclusions—

Early NBO treatment slows ischemic BBB damage pathogenesis and significantly improves the outcome of delayed tPA treatment, providing new evidence supporting NBO as an effective adjunctive therapy to extend the time window of tPA thrombolysis for ischemic stroke.
Maximizing Literacy as a Protective Strategy
Authors: Young Stephen L.
Published: March 2015

Evangelical Christian inerrantist scholars consistently maximize the extent of literary reading and writing abilities in ancient Israel, especially beyond scribes, priests, and other elites or professionals. How they frame the issues, handle the data, represent their work as academic historical research, and engage in certain recurring patterns of argumentation invites analysis. This article analyzes the publications of inerrantist scholars on Israelite literacy, in particular Alan Millard and Richard Hess, as examples of inerrantist discourse and argues that their scholarship on Israelite literacy is characterized by protective strategies that privilege biblical claims. The article thus aims to explore part of the historiography of scholarship on Israelite literacy, to provide an accurate account of what precisely inerrantist scholars are doing in their publications on the topic, and to reframe inerrantist scholarship on Israelite literacy as data for the study of religion.
Reconstructing Realities from Biblical Utopias
Authors: Uhlenbruch Frauke
Published: March 2015

This article addresses two specific issues in reading the Hebrew Bible drawing on utopian theory: the possibility of reconstructing historical reality by reading a text as a utopia, and the variable of changing audiences throughout time and their impact on utopian readings. 

Suvin’s and Roemer’s definitions of utopia are used, but it is acknowledged that no one definition of utopia is necessarily more correct than another. ­Approaching the concept of utopia as a flexible ideal type, rather than with  a strict definition, is advocated. Utopia is seen as a specific response by the author(s) to a perceived reality; therefore it has been suggested that reading biblical texts as utopia can offer insight into social realities at the time of the text’s creation. This notion is examined critically, drawing on Holquist’s comparison of utopia to the abstraction of chess. While it is possible to make some statements about the social reality at the time of the production of the text by reading the text as a utopian representation, it must always be taken into account that each reconstruction of reality is only one possible interpretation offered by a member of a non-intended audience. A utopia’s relationship to realities is complex, and often aspects of its implied counter-piece, the dystopia, become visible when a transfer of a utopia into reality is attempted.
The Affective Eye
Authors: Tilford Nicole
Published: March 2015

Scholars have debated whether the ancient Israelites believed in the evil eye. Biblical passages that mention a “bad eye” (Prov. 23:6; 28:22) or “to do bad with the eye” (Deut. 15:9; 28:54, 56) seem to suggest that such a belief existed in ancient Israel; however, some scholars have argued that such passages are simply idioms for greed or stinginess. This paper reexamines this issue. Drawing upon recent insights from cognitive linguistics, I argue that perception was commonly understood in ancient Israel as a means of positively and negatively affecting the environment and that it was this affective dimension of Israelite thought that prompted biblical writers to describe the character of an individual by his or her physical qualities.
A new species of the genus Pareiorhina (Teleostei: Siluriformes: Loricariidae) from the upper rio Paraná basin, southeastern Brazil
Authors: AZEVEDO-SANTOS VALTER M. , ROXO FÁBIO F.
Published: March 2015

Pareiorhina pelicicei sp. n., a new Loricariidae, is described from the rio Grande, upper rio Paraná basin, southeastern Brazil. The new species differs from its congeners by combination of the following characters: teeth with a minute lateral cusp; absence of small plates scattered on the thorax and abdomen; tip of the snout naked; lower predorsal length; higher number of premaxillary and dentary teeth.
Baroclinic Eddies and the Extent of the Hadley Circulation: An Idealized GCM Study
Authors: Levine Xavier J. , Schneider Tapio
Published: March 2015

The Hadley circulation has widened over the past 30 years. This widening has been qualitatively reproduced in general circulation model (GCM) simulations of a warming climate. Comprehensive GCM studies suggest this widening may be caused by a poleward shift in baroclinic eddy activity. Yet the limited amplitude of the climate change signals analyzed so far precludes a quantitative comparison with theories.

This study uses two idealized GCMs, one with and one without an active hydrologic cycle, to investigate changes in the extent of the Hadley circulation over a wide range of climates. The climates span global-mean temperatures from 243 to 385 K and equator-to-pole temperature contrasts from 12 to 100 K. Baroclinic eddies control the extent of the Hadley circulation across most of these climates. A supercriticality criterion that quantifies the depth of baroclinic eddies relative to that of the troposphere turns out to be a good indicator of where baroclinic eddies become deep enough to terminate the Hadley circulation. The supercriticality depends on meridional temperature gradients and an effective stability that accounts for the effect of convective heating on baroclinic eddies.

As the equator-to-pole temperature contrast weakens or the convective static stability increases, convective heating increasingly influences the thermal stratification of the troposphere and the supercriticality. Consistent with the supercriticality criterion, the Hadley circulation contracts as meridional temperature gradients increase, and it widens as the effective static stability increases. The former occurs during El Niño and may account for the observed Hadley circulation contraction then; the latter occurs during global warming.
The Sensitivity of Tropical Cyclone Activity to Off-Equatorial Thermal Forcing in Aquaplanet Simulations
Authors: Ballinger Andrew P. , Merlis Timothy M. , Held Isaac M. , Zhao Ming
Published: March 2015

The sensitivity of global tropical cyclone (TC) activity to changes in a zonally symmetric sea surface temperature (SST) distribution and the associated large-scale atmospheric circulation are investigated. High-resolution (~50-km horizontal grid spacing) atmospheric general circulation model simulations with maximum SST away from the equator are presented. Simulations with both fixed-SST and slab ocean lower boundary conditions are compared.

The simulated TCs that form on the poleward flank of the intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ) are tracked and changes in the frequency and intensity of those storms are analyzed between the different experiments. The total accumulated cyclone energy (ACE) increases as the location of the maximum SST shifts farther away from the equator. The location of the ITCZ also shifts in conjunction with changes to the SST profile, and this plays an important role in mediating the frequency and intensity of the TCs that form within this modeling framework.
The Seasonality of the Great Plains Low-Level Jet and ENSO Relationship
Authors: Krishnamurthy Lakshmi , Vecchi Gabriel A. , Msadek Rym , Wittenberg Andrew , Delworth Thomas L. , Zeng Fanrong
Published: March 2015

This study investigates the seasonality of the relationship between the Great Plains low-level jet (GPLLJ) and the Pacific Ocean from spring to summer, using observational analysis and coupled model experiments. The observed GPLLJ and El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) relation undergoes seasonal changes with a stronger GPLLJ associated with La Niña in boreal spring and El Niño in boreal summer. The ability of the GFDL Forecast-Oriented Low Ocean Resolution (FLOR) global coupled climate model, which has the high-resolution atmospheric and land components, to simulate the observed seasonality in the GPLLJ–ENSO relationship is assessed. The importance of simulating the magnitude and phase locking of ENSO accurately in order to better simulate its seasonal teleconnections with the Intra-Americas Sea (IAS) is demonstrated. This study explores the mechanisms for seasonal changes in the GPLLJ–ENSO relation in model and observations. It is hypothesized that ENSO affects the GPLLJ variability through the Caribbean low-level jet (CLLJ) during the summer and spring seasons. These results suggest that climate models with improved ENSO variability would advance our ability to simulate and predict seasonal variations of the GPLLJ and their associated impacts on the United States.
Synoptic Control of Cross-Barrier Precipitation Ratios for the Cascade Mountains
Authors: Mass Clifford , Johnson Neal , Warner Michael , Vargas Ricardito
Published: March 2015

This paper examines the synoptic control of precipitation contrasts across the Cascade Mountains of Washington State during the cool season. The average hourly precipitation for three stations on the western and eastern sides of the barrier is calculated, and composite synoptic conditions are determined for situations when precipitation is greater over the eastern slopes, similar precipitation falls on both sides, moderately greater precipitation falls on the western side, and substantially greater precipitation falls on the western side. Conditions prior to occluded/warm frontal passage are favorable for relatively equal precipitation amounts on both sides of the barrier, with extensive warm advection precipitation spreading over the region. Low-level winds are generally southerly during this period, resulting in less orographic modulation of precipitation on the north–south-oriented Cascades. In contrast, postfrontal conditions are associated with westerly flow, enhanced windward precipitation, and greater drying on the leeward (eastern) slopes. Postfrontal conditions also bring drying aloft and reduced stability at low levels, both of which contribute to the enhancement of precipitation on the western slopes. The variation of the cross-mountain precipitation ratio between El Niño and La Niña years can be explained by the associated synoptic configurations. El Niño years have weaker zonal winds and thus less orographic modulation. Furthermore, the lesser vertical stability of La Niña years enhances precipitation on the windward side of the barrier where shallow convection is released.
Is There a Need for Performance Measures for Cochlear Implant Centers?
Authors: Vila Peter M. , Hullar Timothy E. , Buchman Craig A. , Lieu Judith E. C.
Published: March 2015

Performance measures (PMs), or quality indicators, are metrics based on objective data that allow one to assess whether a system achieves a prespecified goal. Given the relatively high level of resource utilization and potential morbidity associated with cochlear implantation (CI), PMs could be used to evaluate quality of care provided by implant centers and, ultimately, optimize care delivery. This article discusses PMs currently in use, how PMs are developed, potential downsides of using PMs, and various examples of PMs that could be used in CI centers.
Anterior‐Commissure Laryngoscope Extraction of Esophageal Coins in Children Using an Apnea Technique
Authors: Tarrats Luis A. , Rivera‐Rodríguez Marinell , González Lorena , Vargas‐Pinto Susana , Garratón Miguel , Quintero Elisa , Riera‐March Antonio
Published: March 2015

This is a case series with chart review of 59 consecutive pediatric patients with a diagnosis of cervical esophageal coin who underwent anterior‐commissure laryngoscope (ACLA) extraction during apnea. The purpose of this study was (1) to evaluate the efficacy and safety of coin extraction and (2) to analyze foreign body features and intraoperative physiological parameters (apnea time, O2 saturation and end‐tidal CO2 (ETCO2) of apnea, minimum O2 during procedure, and heart rate). The technique was completed in 94.9% of the sample. The mean of the length of apnea was 57.7 ± 25.2 seconds. The median minimum O2 saturation was 99.5% (minimum = 93, maximum = 100), and the median of the ETCO2 at the end of the procedure was 35.7 ± 4.8 mm Hg. Heart rates remained at baseline values during the procedure (P <. 001). This technique represents an efficient and secure modality for treatment. If successful, the patient can be safely discharged after clearance from anesthesia and a swallowing trial.
Quality in Otolaryngology
Authors: Shah Rahul K. , Brereton Jean , Roberson David W.
Published: March 2015

The patient safety and quality improvement era began in 1999, and it has exploded in otolaryngology in the last decade. Although there have been some successes, it is not clear that, overall, otolaryngology is much safer than 15 years ago. We discuss why a prolonged lag between improvement efforts and improvements is not surprising and how the safety and quality movement is likely to evolve in the upcoming years.
Probation staff experiences of managing suicidal and self-harming service users
Authors: Mackenzie Jay-Marie , Cartwright Tina , Beck Amy , Borrill Jo
Published: March 2015

The current study sought to explore the impact of suicidal behaviours on probation staff, in relation to their experiences of working with probation service users who have carried out suicide, attempted suicide or self-harm. Thirteen in-depth interviews were carried out with probation staff who had direct contact with probation service users in one probation area, and had varying degrees of experience of managing suicidal or self-injurious service users. These were analysed using thematic analysis and five themes were identified. Findings indicate that staff felt that suicide and self-harm by service users are serious issues which need to be recognized and dealt with in an effective yet compassionate manner. Not attending the suicide prevention training, or lack of experience, were perceived as restricting their ability to know how to deal with these individuals, and offer support. Furthermore, staff were emotionally affected by these incidents and it is recommended that they should continue to be provided with access to appropriate support services after an incident.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Various Imaging Modalities for Suspected Lower Extremity Stress Fractures
Authors: Wright Alexis A. , Hegedus Eric J. , Lenchik Leon , Kuhn Karin J. , Santiago Laura , Smoliga James M.
Published: March 2015

Background:

The literature is filled with conflicting findings regarding diagnostic accuracy and protocols for imaging suspected lower extremity stress fractures. The absence of systematic reviews on this topic has limited the development of evidence-based recommendations for appropriate imaging protocols in cases of suspected lower extremity stress fractures.

Purpose:

To determine the diagnostic accuracy statistics of imaging modalities used to diagnose lower extremity stress fractures and to synthesize evidence-based recommendations for clinical practice.

Study Design:

Systematic review.

Methods:

A generic search strategy for published studies was performed using multiple databases. A study was eligible for inclusion if it met all of the following criteria: (1) at least 1 diagnostic imaging modality was studied, (2) at least 1 radiological reference standard was used, (3) the study reported or allowed computation of diagnostic accuracy statistics (sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio), (4) a full-text version was available, (5) the article was written in English, and (6) the study included lower extremity stress fractures. Studies that examined asymptomatic individuals or patients with fractures due to disease or pharmacologic intervention were excluded.

Results:

Reported sensitivity and specificity (95% CI) were as follows: For conventional radiography, sensitivity ranged from 12% (0%-29%) to 56% (39%-72%) and specificity ranged from 88% (55%-100%) to 96% (87%-100%). For nuclear scintigraphy (NS), sensitivity ranged from 50% (23%-77%) to 97% (90%-100%) and specificity from 33% (12%-53%) to 98% (93%-100%). For magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), sensitivity ranged from 68% (45%-90%) to 99% (95%-100%) and specificity from 4% (0%-11%) to 97% (88%-100%). For computed tomography, sensitivity ranged from 32% (8%-57%) to 38% (16%-59%) and specificity from 88% (55%-100%) to 98% (91%-100%). For ultrasound, sensitivity ranged from 43% (26%-61%) to 99% (95%-100%) and specificity from 13% (0%-45%) to 79% (61%-96%).

Conclusion:

MRI was identified as the most sensitive and specific imaging test for diagnosing stress fractures of the lower extremity. When MRI is available, NS is not recommended because of its low specificity, high dosage of ionizing radiation, and other limitations. Conventional radiographs are likely to result in false negatives upon initial presentation, particularly in the early stages of stress fracture, and in some cases may not reveal an existing stress fracture at any time. A diagnostic imaging algorithm was developed with specific recommendations for cost-efficient imaging of low-risk and high-risk suspected stress fractures.
Protective effect of ginger and zinc chloride mixture on the liver and kidney alterations induced by malathion toxicity
Authors: Baiomy Ahmed A , Attia Hossam F , Soliman Mohamed M , Makrum Omar
Published: March 2015

This study was carried out on four groups of male Wistar rats, 10 rats per group. Group I got open access to food intake and water with normal balanced diet. Group II was administered 400 mg ginger per kg body weight (BW) and zinc chloride (ZnCl2) (300 mg/L) diluted in tap water for 4 months. Group III was administered malathion at a dose of 50 mg/kg BW/day in 0.2 mL corn oil via gavages for 4 months. This dose equal to 1/50 of the LD50. Group IV was given a mixture of 400 mg ginger per kg BW and ZnCl2 (300 mg/L) diluted in tap water in addition to 100 mg malathion/kg BW for 4 months. The liver showed histopathological changes include congestion, edema, and leucocytic infiltrations which were ameliorated by the addition of ginger and ZnCl2 mixture. The kidney showed cloudy swelling and hydropic degeneration of the renal tubules. These changes were ameliorated by the addition of ginger and ZnCl2 mixture. Ki67 immunoreactivity was localized in the cytoplasm and nuclear membrane. Its expression was estimated as the percentage of cells positively stained by the antibody in the different groups. In conclusion, malathion was toxic to the liver and kidney and must be avoided and protected by the addition of ginger and zinc mixture.
Development of eosinophilic granulomatosis with poliangiitis (Churg-Strauss syndrome) and brain tumor in a patient after more than 7 years of omalizumab use: A case report
Authors: Borekci S , Aydin O , Hatemi G , Gemicioglu B
Published: March 2015

Omalizumab is a monoclonal anti-immunoglobulin E antibody used for the treatment of severe perennial allergic asthma. Previous reports have suggested that omalizumab treatment can be associated with the development of eosinophilic granulomatosis with poliangiitis (EGPA) (formerly known as Churg-Strauss syndrome) and an increased risk of malignancy. Long-term risks of omalizumab treatment are not very well defined. Here, we report the case of a 75-year-old woman with concurrent occurrence of EGPA and brain tumor after more than 7 years of omalizumab treatment. The possibility of EGPA should be borne in mind during long-term treatment with omalizumab. Despite the absence of definitive data, an association may also exist between the development of malignancy and omalizumab use.
Correlation of internal and surface temperatures during laser cutting of epoxy-based carbon fibre reinforced plastics
Authors: Bluemel Sven , Staehr Richard , Jaeschke Peter , Suttmann Oliver , Overmeyer Ludger
Published: March 2015

A strong criterion in the evaluation of laser-cut carbon fibre reinforced plastics is the thermal damage of the material. The visible heat affected zone is used as an indicator for the deterioration, which can be measured by destructive methods only. For the purposes of this paper, a non-destructive and contactless heat affected zone estimation method was developed based on experimental data. For this purpose, the internal and surface temperatures were measured simultaneously in order to gain a better understanding of the temperature distribution during laser cutting. Thermocouples and a thermography camera were used for the measurement of the internal and surface temperature, respectively. Based on the data, the internal and surface temperatures were initially correlated. Furthermore, the dependency of the measured surface temperature with the distance between measuring point and heat affected zone was plotted. For the present material and process, this information can be used to estimate the heat affected zone in real-time without the need of destructive testing.
Violence Exposure and Victimization Among Rural Adolescents
Authors: Mykota David B. , Laye Adele
Published: March 2015

Violence exposure is a serious public health concern for adolescents in schools today. Violence exposure can be quite severe and frequent with multiple acts of indirect and direct victimization having lasting effects on the physical, emotional, and intellectual well-being of adolescents. The purpose of the present study is to examine the rates of violence exposure and the relative risk for multiple exposures among adolescent youth living in rural communities. Results confirm that adolescents who live in rural areas were frequent victims of violence exposure and that males were more likely to be the victims than females. Moreover, the relative risk for multiple exposures either indirectly, directly, or in combination reveal that in all instances amplification of risk occurs. The study is an important first step in understanding the rates of violence exposure and victimization experienced by adolescent youth in rural Canada with implications for school-based programming presented.
Are College Students’ Assessments of Threat Shaped by the Dangers of Their Childhood Environment?
Authors: Sherman Amanda K. , Minich Steven H. , Langen Tom A. , Skufca Joseph , Wilke Andreas
Published: March 2015

Humans internalize environmental cues of mortality risk at an early age, which influences subsequent risk perceptions and behavior. In this respect, an individual’s current risk assessment may be viewed as an adaptive response to the dangers present within his or her early local environment. Here we examine the relationship between several variables indicating threat within an individual’s early environment (e.g., prevalence of violent and property crimes, registered sex offenders) and their perception of crime risk within both the childhood and current adult environments. We recruited a group of 657 students who hail from diverse geographic backgrounds to provide the zip code location of their childhood residence along with subjective ratings of danger of that and their current location, which enabled us to compare their ratings of risk/danger with the federally reported crime statistics of each setting. Our results indicate that the early prevalence of registered sex offenders indeed influences an individual’s risk perception in adulthood, and that these factors have a differential effect on males and females. Our findings provide support for the theory that early environmental factors signaling danger affect how individuals assess risk within their adult environment.
Childhood Family Income and Violent Victimization During Youth and Young Adulthood
Authors: Aaltonen Mikko , Martikainen Pekka , Moustgaard Heta , Peltonen Riina , Remes Hanna
Published: March 2015

The purpose of the current study was to examine whether the relationship between childhood family income and risk of violent victimization has changed between 1988 and 2007 in Finland, as prior studies have suggested that socioeconomic differences in exposure to violence have increased during the recent decades. Existing studies have mostly relied on survey data, while such trends in hospital discharge data—a data source that covers the total population well and is not compromised by attrition or self-report bias—have not been thoroughly investigated before. The current study used register-based individual-level data from 1988-2007 ( n = 283,505) to study changes in the relationship between childhood family income and victimization risk among 15- to 30-year-old Finnish men and women. We found a persisting difference in violent victimization between the top and bottom income quintiles for both men and women. While the estimates suggest that this difference has increased rather than decreased during the observation period particularly among women, this change was not statistically significant. These conclusions remain after controlling for the composition of income quintiles. Research could benefit from more extensive use of administrative hospital records in analyzing of the trends and causes of serious violence.
Dynamics analysis and decoupling control for a differential cable drive inertially stabilized platform
Authors: Liao Hongbo , Lu Yafei , Fan Shixun , Fan Dapeng
Published: March 2015

In this article, a decoupling control method is proposed to solve the coupling problem of the differential cable drive inertially stabilized platform. First, the transmission chain and motion of the inertially stabilized platform are briefly illustrated, and the dynamics is analysed based on the Lagrange equation. According to the established dynamic equation, the coupling of inertia, torque and angular position between two motors are analysed. Then, the decoupling controller is used to address the coupling problems, and the numerical simulation is realized in the MATLAB/Simulink. The experimental results show that the dynamic equation can accurately describe the dynamic characteristic of the differential cable drive inertially stabilized platform, and the control performance is improved by suppressing the coupling factors.
Gender and Batterer Intervention
Authors: Hamel John , Ferreira Regardt J. , Buttell Fred
Published: March 2015

Objective:

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the impact of gender and other variables commonly associated with intimate partner abuse perpetration on program completion and pretreatment abusiveness profiles among a sample of men and women ordered into a 52-week batterer intervention program (BIP).

Method:

The study employed a posttest only design with nonequivalent groups (comparing program completers to dropouts and men to women) in an analysis of 175 clients mandated into a BIP.

Results:

Analysis indicated that there were no significant differences between men and women in terms of program completion and that women were significantly more likely than men to report engaging in severe physical abuse perpetration, and a logistic regression analysis indicated that dropouts were 6 times more likely to have initiated physical abuse compared to completers.

Conclusion:

These findings reveal characteristics of BIP program participants as they relate to self-reported abusiveness and provide preliminary evidence suggesting that both BIP pretreatment profiles and treatment completion rates of men and women are similar, with implications for policy and treatment.
Environmental Shareholder Activism
Authors: Perrault Elise , Clark Cynthia
Published: March 2015

Status and reputation have recently gained traction as theoretical mechanisms that, as important parts of decision processes, influence and explain firm behavior. In this study, we examine how environmentally concerned shareholder activists vary in their status and reputation, and how these differences affect firm responsiveness to their concerns. In a sample of 420 resolutions concerning the natural environment in the period 2004 to 2008, our results indicate that firms respond positively to shareholder activists’ high status (a desirable characteristic) and also to their reputation to threaten the firm (an unfavorable characteristic). As such, our study advances a promising explanation to firm responsiveness on environmental issues, rooted in their interpretation of how activists’ status and reputation affect their firm.