bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of the Pacific Decadal Oscillation on springtime dust activity in
Syria
Authors: Pu Bing , Ginoux Paul
Published: October 2016

Abstract. The increasing trend of aerosol optical depth in the Middle East and a recent severe dust storm in Syria have raised questions as to whether dust storms will increase and promoted investigations on the dust activities driven by the natural climate variability underlying the ongoing human perturbations such as the Syrian civil war. This study examined the influences of the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) on dust activities in Syria using an innovative dust optical depth (DOD) dataset derived from Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) Deep Blue aerosol products. A significantly negative correlation is found between the Syrian DOD and the PDO in spring from 2003 to 2015. High DOD in spring is associated with lower geopotential height over the Middle East, Europe, and North Africa, accompanied by near-surface anomalous westerly winds over the Mediterranean basin and southerly winds over the eastern Arabian Peninsula. These large-scale patterns promote the formation of the cyclones over the Middle East to trigger dust storms and also facilitate the transport of dust from North Africa, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia to Syria, where the transported dust dominates the seasonal mean DOD in spring. A negative PDO not only creates circulation anomalies favorable to high DOD in Syria but also suppresses precipitation in dust source regions over the eastern and southern Arabian Peninsula and northeastern Africa.On the daily scale, in addition to the favorable large-scale condition associated with a negative PDO, enhanced atmospheric instability in Syria (associated with increased precipitation in Turkey and northern Syria) is also critical for the development of strong springtime dust storms in Syria.
The BErkeley Atmospheric CO2 Observation Network: initial evaluation
Authors: Shusterman Alexis A. , Teige Virginia E. , Turner Alexander J. , Newman Catherine , Kim Jinsol , Cohen Ronald C.
Published: October 2016

Abstract. With the majority of the world population residing in urban areas, attempts to monitor and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions must necessarily center on cities. However, existing carbon dioxide observation networks are ill-equipped to resolve the specific intra-city emission phenomena targeted by regulation. Here we describe the design and implementation of the BErkeley Atmospheric CO2 Observation Network (BEACO2N), a distributed CO2 monitoring instrument that utilizes low-cost technology to achieve unprecedented spatial density throughout and around the city of Oakland, California. We characterize the network in terms of four performance parameters – cost, reliability, precision, and systematic uncertainty – and find the BEACO2N approach to be sufficiently cost-effective and reliable while nonetheless providing high-quality atmospheric observations. First results from the initial installation successfully capture hourly, daily, and seasonal CO2 signals relevant to urban environments on spatial scales that cannot be accurately represented by atmospheric transport models alone, demonstrating the utility of high-resolution surface networks in urban greenhouse gas monitoring efforts.
Ubiquitous production of branched glycerol dialkyl glycerol tetraethers
(brGDGTs) in global marine environments: a new source indicator for brGDGTs
Authors: Xiao Wenjie , Wang Yinghui , Zhou Shangzhe , Hu Limin , Yang Huan , Xu Yunping
Published: October 2016

Abstract. Presumed source specificity of branched glycerol dialkyl glycerol tetraethers (brGDGTs) from bacteria thriving in soil/peat and isoprenoid GDGTs (iGDGTs) from aquatic organisms led to the development of several biomarker proxies for biogeochemical cycle and paleoenvironmental reconstructions. However, recent studies reveal that brGDGTs are also produced in aquatic environments besides soils and peat. Here we examined three cores from the Bohai Sea, and found distinct difference in brGDGT compositions varying with the distance from the Yellow River mouth. We thus propose an abundance ratio of hexamethylated to pentamethylated brGDGT (IIIa ∕ IIa) to evaluate brGDGT sources. The compilation of globally distributed 1354 marine sediments and 589 soils shows that the IIIa ∕ IIa ratio is generally < 0.59 in soils and 0.59–0.92 and > 0.92 in marine sediments with and without significant terrestrial inputs, respectively. Such disparity confirms the existence of two sources for brGDGTs, a terrestrial origin with lower IIIa ∕ IIa and a marine origin with higher IIIa ∕ IIa, which is likely attributed to a generally higher pH and the production of brGDGTs in cold deep water in marine waters. The application of the IIIa ∕ IIa ratio to the East Siberian Arctic Shelf proves it to be a sensitive source indicator for brGDGTs, which is helpful for accurate estimation of organic carbon source and paleoclimates in marine settings.
An introduction to the Australian and New Zealand flux tower network –
OzFlux
Authors: Beringer Jason , Hutley Lindsay B. , McHugh Ian , Arndt Stefan K. , Campbell David , Cleugh Helen A. , Cleverly James , Resco de Dios Víctor , Eamus Derek , Evans Bradley , Ewenz Cacilia , Grace Peter , Griebel Anne , Haverd Vanessa , Hinko-Najera Nina , Huete Alfredo , Isaac Peter , Kanniah Kasturi , Leuning Ray , Liddell Michael J. , Macfarlane Craig , Meyer Wayne , Moore Caitlin , Pendall Elise , Phillips Alison , Phillips Rebecca L. , Prober Suzanne M. , Restrepo-Coupe Natalia , Rutledge Susanna , Schroder Ivan , Silberstein Richard , Southall Patricia , Yee Mei Sun , Tapper Nigel J. , van Gorsel Eva , Vote Camilla , Walker Jeff , Wardlaw Tim
Published: October 2016

Abstract. OzFlux is the regional Australian and New Zealand flux tower network that aims to provide a continental-scale national research facility to monitor and assess trends, and improve predictions, of Australia's terrestrial biosphere and climate. This paper describes the evolution, design, and current status of OzFlux as well as provides an overview of data processing. We analyse measurements from all sites within the Australian portion of the OzFlux network and two sites from New Zealand. The response of the Australian biomes to climate was largely consistent with global studies except that Australian systems had a lower ecosystem water-use efficiency. Australian semi-arid/arid ecosystems are important because of their huge extent (70 %) and they have evolved with common moisture limitations. We also found that Australian ecosystems had a similar radiation-use efficiency per unit leaf area compared to global values that indicates a convergence toward a similar biochemical efficiency. The two New Zealand sites represented extremes in productivity for a moist temperate climate zone, with the grazed dairy farm site having the highest GPP of any OzFlux site (2620 gC m−2 yr−1) and the natural raised peat bog site having a very low GPP (820 gC m−2 yr−1). The paper discusses the utility of the flux data and the synergies between flux, remote sensing, and modelling. Lastly, the paper looks ahead at the future direction of the network and concludes that there has been a substantial contribution by OzFlux, and considerable opportunities remain to further advance our understanding of ecosystem response to disturbances, including drought, fire, land-use and land-cover change, land management, and climate change, which are relevant both nationally and internationally. It is suggested that a synergistic approach is required to address all of the spatial, ecological, human, and cultural challenges of managing the delicately balanced ecosystems in Australasia.
Warm Greenland during the last interglacial: the role of regional changes in sea ice cover
Authors: Merz Niklaus , Born Andreas , Raible Christoph C. , Stocker Thomas F.
Published: October 2016

Abstract. The last interglacial, also known as the Eemian, is characterized by warmer than present conditions at high latitudes. This is implied by various Eemian proxy records as well as by climate model simulations, though the models mostly underestimate the warming with respect to proxies. Simulations of Eemian surface air temperatures (SAT) in the Northern Hemisphere extratropics further show large variations between different climate models, and it has been hypothesized that this model spread relates to diverse representations of the Eemian sea ice cover. Here we use versions 3 and 4 of the Community Climate System Model (CCSM3 and CCSM4) to highlight the crucial role of sea ice and sea surface temperatures changes for the Eemian climate, in particular in the North Atlantic sector and in Greenland. A substantial reduction in sea ice cover results in an amplified atmospheric warming and thus a better agreement with Eemian proxy records. Sensitivity experiments with idealized lower boundary conditions reveal that warming over Greenland is mostly due to a sea ice retreat in the Nordic Seas. In contrast, sea ice changes in the Labrador Sea have a limited local impact. Changes in sea ice cover in either region are transferred to the overlying atmosphere through anomalous surface energy fluxes. The large-scale spread of the warming resulting from a Nordic Seas sea ice retreat is mostly explained by anomalous heat advection rather than by radiation or condensation processes. In addition, the sea ice perturbations lead to changes in the hydrological cycle. Our results consequently imply that both temperature and snow accumulation records from Greenland ice cores are sensitive to sea ice changes in the Nordic Seas but insensitive to sea ice changes in the Labrador Sea. Moreover, the simulations suggest that the uncertainty in the Eemian sea ice cover accounts for 1.6 °C of the Eemian warming at the NEEM ice core site. The estimated Eemian warming of 5 °C above present day based on the NEEM δ15N record can be reconstructed by the CCSM4 model for the scenario of a substantial sea ice retreat in the Nordic Seas combined with a reduced Greenland ice sheet.
Landslides, floods and sinkholes in a karst environment: the 1–6 September 2014 Gargano event, southern Italy
Authors: Martinotti Maria Elena , Pisano Luca , Marchesini Ivan , Rossi Mauro , Peruccacci Silvia , Brunetti Maria Teresa , Melillo Massimo , Amoruso Giuseppe , Loiacono Pierluigi , Vennari Carmela , Vessia Giovanna , Trabace Maria , Parise Mario , Guzzetti Fausto
Published: October 2016

Abstract. In karst environments, heavy rainfall is known to cause multiple geo-hydrological hazards, including inundations, flash floods, landslides, and sinkholes. We studied a period of intense rainfall from 1 to 6 September 2014 in the Gargano Promontory, a karst landscape in Puglia, southern Italy. In the period, a sequence of torrential rainfall events caused severe damage, and claimed two fatalities, triggering different types of geo-hydrological hazards. The amount and accuracy of the geographical and the temporal information varied for the different hazards. The temporal information was most accurate for the inundation caused by a major river, less accurate for flash floods caused by minor torrents, and even less accurate for landslides. For sinkholes, only generic information on the period of occurrence of the failures was available. Our analysis revealed that in the Promontory, rainfall-driven geo-hydrological hazards occurred in response to extreme meteorological conditions, and that the karst landscape responded to the torrential rainfall with a threshold behaviour. We exploited the rainfall and the landslide information to design the new Ensemble – Non Exceedance Probability, E-NEP algorithm for the quantitative evaluation of the possible occurrence of rainfall-induced landslides, and of related geo-hydrological hazards. The ensemble of the metrics produced by the E-NEP algorithm provided better diagnostics than the single metrics often used for landslide forecasting, including rainfall duration, cumulated rainfall and rainfall intensity. We expect that the E-NEP algorithm will be useful for landslide early warning in karst areas and in other similar environments. We acknowledge that further tests are needed to evaluate the algorithm in different meteorological, geological, and physiographical settings.
Will climate change increase the risk of infrastructure failures in Europe due to heavy precipitation?
Authors: Nissen Katrin M. , Ulbrich Uwe
Published: October 2016

Abstract. The effect of climate change on potentially infrastructure damaging heavy precipitation events in Europe is investigated in an ensemble of regional climate simulations conducted at a horizontal resolution of 12 km. Based on legislation and stakeholder interviews the 10-year return period is used as a threshold for the detection of relevant events. A novel technique for the identification of heavy precipitation events is introduced. It records not only event frequency but also event size, duration and severity (a measure taking duration, size and rain amount into account) as these parameters determine the potential consequences of the event. Over most of Europe the frequency of relevant heavy precipitation events is predicted to increase with increasing greenhouse gas concentrations. The risk by daily and multi-day events increases at a lower rate than the risk by sub-daily events. The event size is predicted to increase in the future over many European regions, especially for sub-daily events. Moreover, the most severe events were detected in the projection period. The climate change simulations don't show changes in event duration.
Precise age for the Permian-Triassic boundary in South China from high precision U-Pb geochronology and Bayesian age-depth modelling
Authors: Baresel Björn , Bucher Hugo , Brosse Morgane , Cordey Fabrice , Guodun Kuang , Schaltegger Urs
Published: October 2016

Abstract. This study is based on zircon U-Pb ages of 12 volcanic ash layers and volcanogenic sandstones from two marine sections with conformable formational Permian-Triassic boundaries (PTB) in the Nanpanjiang Basin (South China). Our dates of single, thermally annealed and chemically abraded zircons bracket the PTB in Dongpan and Penglaitan and provide the basis for a first proof-of-concept study utilizing a Bayesian chronology model comparing the three sections of Dongpan, Penglaitan and the Global Stratotype Section and Point (GSSP) Meishan. Our Bayesian modeling demonstrates that the formational boundaries in Dongpan (251.938 ± 0.029 Ma), Penglaitan (251.982 ± 0.031 Ma) and Meishan (251.956 ± 0.033 Ma) are synchronous within analytical uncertainty of ca. 30 ka. It also provides quantitative evidence that the ages of the paleontologically defined boundaries, based on conodont Unitary Associations zones in Meishan and on macrofaunas in Dongpan, are identical and coincide with the age of the formational boundaries. The age model also confirms the extreme condensation around the PTB in Meishan, which distorts the projection of any stratigraphic points or intervals onto other more expanded sections by means of Bayesian age-depth models. Dongpan and Penglaitan possess significantly higher sedimentation rates and thus offer a greater potential for high resolution studies of environmental proxies and correlations around the PTB than Meishan. This study highlights the power of high-resolution radio-isotopic ages that allow a robust intercalibration of patterns of biotic changes and fluctuating environmental proxies and will help recognizing their global, regional or local significance.
Terrain changes from images acquired on opportunistic flights by SFM photogrammetry
Authors: Girod Luc , Nuth Christopher , Kääb Andreas , Etzelmüller Bernd , Kohler Jack
Published: October 2016

Abstract. Structure from motion (SfM) photogrammetric techniques are emerging as powerful tools for surveying, at very high spatial and temporal resolution, geomorphological objects undergoing relatively rapid change, such as glaciers, moraines, or landslides. Modern software and computing power allows production of accurate data from low-cost surveys, compared to traditional photogrammetry conducted from dedicated fixed-wing aircraft missions. We present a method to take advantage of light-transport flights conducting other missions to opportunistically collect imagery for geomorphological analysis. We test and validate an approach in which we attach simple cameras and GNSS receivers to a helicopter to collect data when the flight path covers an area of interest. The novelty in our method is the ability to link GNSS data to images without a physical or electronic link. As a proof of concept, we conducted two test surveys in September 2014 and 2015 over the glacier Midtre Lovénbreen and its forefield, in northwestern Svalbard. We were able to derive elevation change estimates complementing in-situ mass balance measurements using the glaciological method. Furthermore, we detect and analyze a number of processes in the proglacial area, including thermokarst and the evolution of water channels.
Héroe claro y héroe oscuro en el relato cinematográfico
Authors: Gil Ruiz Francisco José , García García Francisco
Published: October 2016

El rol del héroe es cambiante y poco uniforme, pero su función es constante. La línea que separa el bien del mal con frecuencia es muy fina, tanto que a veces el propio héroe puede actuar de forma negativa y ofrecer dudas acerca de su propia naturaleza en la búsqueda del bien. Esta investigación pretende inda­gar en la condición heroica de los personajes mostrando dos variantes de esta figura en el marco del cine posmoderno: el “héroe claro” y el “héroe oscuro”. El primero mantiene los valores más tradicionales del mismo, mientras que el segundo aporta una dimensión que le diferencia del anterior: su experiencia ejecutando el mal como parte de su proceso hacia la heroicidad. La posmodernidad implica una ambi­valencia en la identidad del personaje que puede ser extrapolable al papel del héroe y a la forma en que éste realiza el bien. El “héroe claro” no implica rasgos negativos en la naturaleza activa del personaje, mientras que el “héroe oscuro” sí los incluye. A través de los protagonistas de Gladiator (Scott, 2000) y Batman Begins (Nolan, 2005) se muestran ambas perspectivas heroicas mediante una selección de sus acciones principales, que son sometidas al análisis según varios parámetros: comportamiento, implica­ción, y causa. Se señalará, además, la acción resolutiva de cada personaje atendiendo a la teleonomía del relato en razón del sentido favorable o desfavorable para el héroe. Finalmente, se observará a cada sujeto desde su arquetipo. Al analizar las acciones desde estas perspectivas observamos que el héroe claro y el héroe oscuro son categorías asequibles para el rol heroico.
Clinical Evaluation of an Oil-Based Lubricant Eyedrop in Dry Eye Patients with Lipid Deficiency
Authors: Baudouin Christophe , Galarreta David J. , Mrukwa-Kominek Ewa , Böhringer Daniel , Maurino Vincenzo , Guillon Michel , Rossi Gemma C.M. , Van der Meulen Ivanka J. , Ogundele Abayomi , Labetoulle Marc
Published: October 2016

Purpose

To evaluate and compare the efficacy of a lipid-based lubricant eyedrop formulation (hydroxypropyl guar/propylene glycol/phospholipid [HPG/PG/PL]) with preservative-free saline for the treatment of dry eye.

Methods

This was a prospective, multicenter, randomized, single-masked, parallel-group phase 4 clinical study. Patients ≥18 years diagnosed with dry eye received 1 drop of saline 4 times daily (QID) for 15 days during a run-in phase, followed by randomization. Patients then instilled HPG/PG/PL or saline QID through day 35 and as needed through day 90. Change in tear film break-up time (TFBUT), change in total ocular surface staining (TOSS) score, and Impact of Dry Eye on Everyday Life (IDEEL) were evaluated on day 35.

Results

Increase in TFBUT from baseline to day 35 was assessed during the interim and final analyses. Mean ± SE difference between the HPG/PG/PL (n = 110) and saline groups (n = 100) was 1.3 ± 0.4 seconds (interim analysis; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.5-2.1 seconds; p = 0.0012) and 1.0 ± 0.3 seconds (final analysis; 95% CI 0.4-1.6 seconds; p = 0.0011), demonstrating the superiority of HPG/PG/PL. The mean ± SE difference between the HPG/PG/PL and saline groups for IDEEL treatment effectiveness scores was 16.0 ± 3.6 (95% CI 8.9-23.1; p<0.0001). No significant differences in TOSS scores or IDEEL inconvenience scores were observed between treatment groups.

Conclusions

Thirty-five days of QID HPG/PG/PL treatment resulted in a statistically significant improvement in TFBUT and IDEEL treatment effectiveness scores compared with saline but not in TOSS or IDEEL treatment inconvenience scores. HPG/PG/PL was well-tolerated by patients.
Retinal Neurovascular Changes Appear Earlier in Type 2 Diabetic Patients
Authors: Pierro Luisa , Iuliano Lorenzo , Cicinelli Maria Vittoria , Casalino Giuseppe , Bandello Francesco
Published: October 2016

Purpose

To investigate the early neurodegenerative changes of inner retina and choroid in type 1 and type 2 diabetic patients without retinopathy and with early-stage retinopathy.

Methods

In this observational cross-sectional study, 90 right eyes of 90 naive type 1 and 2 diabetic patients without diabetic retinopathy (DR) and with mild to moderate nonproliferative DR (NPDR) were analyzed. Forty healthy eyes were included as controls. We used spectral-domain optical coherence tomography to evaluate the ganglion cell complex (GCC) thickness, the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness, the choroid thickness, and the central foveal thickness (CFT) of patients and controls.

Results

Average GCC thickness turned out to be thinner in type 2 diabetic patients with no DR and with NPDR compared to controls ( p = 0.046 and p = 0.041, respectively). The RNFL thickness and CFT were similar among the studied groups and compared to controls ( p = 0.78 and p = 0.104, respectively). Average choroid thicknesses (both in the subfoveal area and in a 1-mm radius circular area) were significantly thinner in type 2 diabetic patients with no DR and NPDR, compared to DMT1 groups and controls (both p<0.0001). The GCC and choroid thickness changes were not correlated in any of the investigational groups.

Conclusions

Type 2 diabetic patients without retinopathy and with early-stage retinopathy have inferior thickness values of GCC and choroid compared to controls. Insulin resistance might be a possible adjunctive pathogenetic aspect of neurodegeneration.
Ethnic Variation in Vitreoretinal Surgery: Differences in Clinical Presentation and Outcome
Authors: Gupta Bhaskar , Neffendorf James E. , Wong Roger , Laidlaw David A.H. , Williamson Tom H.
Published: October 2016

Purpose

The true prevalence of retinal detachment and other vitreoretinal disorders in different ethnic groups is not well-established. Understanding differences in vitreoretinal disease prevalence is important to appropriately allocate resources to meet demand where ethnic variation in the community exists. The aim of this study is to provide hospital-based data on the proportion of people with vitreoretinal disorders in the 3 main ethnic groups in the United Kingdom: Caucasian, Afro-Caribbean, and South Asian.

Methods

A retrospective study was performed on 3,262 patients undergoing vitreoretinal procedures for various indications between 2001 and 2014 from a single center in London, UK.

Results

The majority of patients with known ethnicity were Caucasian (80.19%) followed by Afro-Caribbean (12.31%) and Asian (5.20%). The mean age of the study population was 59.64 ± 15.75 years, with 57.28% males. Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) was the common indication for surgery across all ethnic groups (54.83%). Caucasians were older, on average, compared to other ethnic groups at the time of surgery for RRD (p<0.05) and achieved higher success rates after primary surgery and were less likely to require silicone oil as primary tamponade. Macular hole was more common in the ethnic minorities with similar closure rates. Surgery for complications of diabetic retinopathy was more common in Afro-Caribbeans and Asians compared to Caucasians (28.07%, 24.02%, and 9.40%, p<0.05).

Conclusions

This study presents a large population-based data analysis on ethnic variation in vitreoretinal disorders. This may assist in predicting the requirement of vitreoretinal service provision depending on local ethnic variation.
Myoblast Adhesion, Proliferation and Differentiation on Human Elastin-Like Polypeptide (HELP) Hydrogels
Authors: D'Andrea Paola , Civita Deborah , Cok Michela , Ulloa Severino Luisa , Vita Francesca , Scaini Denis , Casalis Loredana , Lorenzon Paola , Donati Ivan , Bandiera Antonella
Published: October 2016

Background

The biochemical, mechanical and topographic properties of extracellular matrix are crucially involved in determining skeletal muscle cell morphogenesis, proliferation and differentiation. Human elastin-like polypeptides (HELPs) are recombinant biomimetic proteins designed to mimic some properties of the native matrix protein; when employed as myoblast adhesion substrates, they stimulate in vitro myogenesis. Given the influence that the biophysical properties of extracellular matrix have on skeletal muscle cells, the aim of this work was to investigate the effects of HELP hydrogels on myoblasts’ viability and functions.

Methods

We recently synthesized a novel polypeptide, HELPc, by fusing the elastin-like backbone to a 41aa sequence present in the α2 chain of type IV collagen, containing two arginyl-glycyl-aspartic acid (RGD) motifs. To obtain hydrogels, the enzymatic cross-linking of the HELPc was accomplished by transglutaminase. Here, we employed both non-cross-linked HELPc glass coatings and cross-linked HELPc hydrogels at different monomer densities, as adhesion substrates for C2C12 cells, used as a myoblast model.

Results

By comparing cell adhesion, proliferation and differentiation, we revealed several striking differences. Depending on support rigidity, adhesion to HELPc substrates dictated cell morphology, spreading, focal adhesion formation and cytoskeletal organization. Hydrogels greatly stimulated cell proliferation, particularly in low-serum medium, and partially inhibited myogenic differentiation.

Conclusions

On the whole, the results underline the potential of these genetically engineered polypeptides as a tool for dissecting crucial steps in myogenesis.
The ATS/ERS/JRS/ALAT Statement “IPF by HRCT” could Predict Acute Exacerbation of Interstitial Lung Disease in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Asai Nobuhiro , Katsuda Eisuke , Hamanaka Rie , Kosaka Kenshi , Matsubara Ayako , Nishimura Masaki , Tanaka Hiroyuki , Yokoe Norihito , Takahashi Ayumu , Yamaguchi Etsuro , Kubo Akihito
Published: October 2016

Introduction

Patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and interstitial lung disease (ILD) are at high risk of acute exacerbation of ILD (AE-ILD) when treated with systemic chemotherapy. Standard treatment for NSCLC complicated by ILD has not been established.

Purpose and methods

To examine whether the type of ILD categorized by the official ATS/ERS/JRS/ALAT statement as “idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) by high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT)” could predict chemotherapy-induced AE-ILD in NSCLC patients with ILD, we retrospectively reviewed all patients with NSCLC complicated by ILD who had received chemotherapy at our institute from January 2007 until December 2013. Patients’ characteristics, pathology and clinical staging of lung cancer, chemotherapy, type of ILD and AE-ILD during chemotherapy were evaluated. ILD was classified according to the statement as follows: usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP), possible UIP, and inconsistent with a UIP pattern.

Results

A total of 46 patients had pre-existing ILD and received chemotherapy. The mean age was 73 years (range 46-83 years). Fifteen (32.6%) of 46 patients with ILD developed chemotherapy-induced AE-ILD, which was seen more frequently in patients with ILD with a UIP pattern or possible UIP pattern than in patients with a pattern inconsistent with UIP (80% versus 9.7%, p<0.001). Multivariate analyses including age, sex, performance status and radiographic patterns of ILD showed that the presence of a UIP or possible UIP pattern was an independent risk factor for chemotherapy-induced AE-ILD.

Conclusions

ILD with a UIP pattern or possible UIP pattern by the classification could be a risk factor for AE-ILD in NSCLC patients with ILD.
Clinical factors stratifying the risk of tumor upgrading to high-grade disease in low-risk prostate cancer
Authors: Porcaro Antonio B. , Siracusano Salvatore , Luyk Nicolò de , Corsi Paolo , Sebben Marco , Tafuri Alessandro , Processali Tania , Cerasuolo Mattia , Mattevi Daniele , Inverardi Davide , Cerruto Maria A. , Brunelli Matteo , Artibani Walter
Published: October 2016

Purpose:

To identify clinical factors stratifying the risk of tumor upgrading to increasing patterns of the tumor grading system in low-risk prostate cancer (PCa).

Methods:

We evaluated the records of 438 patients who underwent radical prostatectomy. Associations between clinical factors and tumor upgrading were assessed by the univariate and multivariate multinomial logistic regression model.

Results:

Low-risk PCa included 170 cases (38.8%) and tumor upgrading was detected in 111 patients (65.3%): 72 (42.4%) had pathology Gleason pattern (pGP) 3 + 4, 27 (15.9%) pGP 4 + 3, and 12 (7.1%) pGP 4 + 4. Prostate- specific antigen (PSA) and proportion of positive cores (P+) were independent predictors of upgrading to high-risk disease. These factors also stratified the risk of tumor upgrading to the increasing patterns of the tumor grading system. The model allowed the identification of pGP 4 + 4. The main difference between high-risk PCa and other upgraded tumors related to PSA load (odds ratio 2.4) that associated with high volume disease in the specimen.

Conclusions:

Low-risk PCa is a heterogeneous population with significant rates of tumor upgrading. Significant clinical predictors stratifying the risk of tumor upgrading to increasing patterns of the grading system included PSA and P+. These factors allowed the identification of the subset hiding high-grade disease requiring further investigations before delivering active treatments.
Comparing the Effects of Atorvastatin on LDL Reduction through Systematic Review Method and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Qavam Samiramiss , Shohani Masoumeh , Balavandi Firoz , Qavam Ramak , Tavan Hamed
Published: October 2016

BACKGROUND & GOAL: LDL is one of the important risk factors that cause cardiovascular diseases. Improving one's lifestyle accompanied by taking medicine can be effective in reducing the amount of LDL. This study aims at comparing the effects of Atorvastatin on reducing LDL using systematic review method and meta-analysis.

MATERIALS & METHODS: In this systematic review, Pub Med, Scopus, Elsevier and Google Scholar search engine were applied to do a search within the time span of 2003-2014 using standard key words. Articles which met the entrance criteria were studied. Random effects model was used to integrate the results through meta-analysis. Data were analyzed using Stata software (version 11.1).

FINDINGS: In a systematic review, 11 articles were passed through the process of meta-analysis with a sample size of 3662 individuals and a mean of 333 subjects per study. The rate of LDL reduction was 33.32 milligrams per Deciliter by Atorvastatin. The meta-regression graph based on age showed that in the studies where the age of the sample has been younger, the amount of LDL has been higher and in studies with older sample age, the LDL rate has been lower. The meta-regression graph to BMI showed that people with higher BMI, showed more reduction in LDL and individuals with lower BMI, indicated less LDL reduction.

CONCLUSION: According to the results of the study, LDL reduction takes place better and more quickly in the elderly and fat individuals. Atorvastatin was more effective in reducing the rate of LDL.
Evaluation of Tuberculin Skin Test (TST) in Medical Students in Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
Authors: Alian Shahriar , Dadashi Amir , Najafi Narges , Alikhani Ahmad , Davoudi Alireza , Moosazadeh Mahmood , Ahangarkani Fatemeh
Published: October 2016

BACKGROUND: Working in health care units has been known as occupational risk factor in mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB) infection. The TB exposure rate in medical students is more than other people. In several studies significant correlation has been reported between hospital presence hours and positive PPD test prevalence. With regard to morbidity of several medical students and nursing staff due to primary tuberculosis in recent years, we decided to investigate positive tuberculin skin test (TST) prevalence in medical students and examine correlation between positive cases prevalence with presence hours in hospitals.

METHODS: This was a cross sectional study and 297 medical students of Mazandaran University of medical sciences were investigated. TST was done with Mantoux method. After 48 hours, injection site induration was measured. Subjects that had induration <10 millimeters were injected again (1-3 weeks later) with same method. (As a booster dose)

RESULTS: 32 cases (10.7%) had positive test at the first phase. Second phase was done on rest 265 persons and 20 cases had positive test. In summation 52 positive cases (17.5%) were observed. 21 cases of 151 persons (13.9%) in group with <100 hours/annual hospital presence, had positive tests. 21 cases of 71 persons (16.9%) in group with 100-1000 h/a hospital presence (Extern) and 19 cases of 75 people (25.3%) those who had  >1000 h/a hospital presence(Intern),  had positive tests. There was a meaningful statically difference in positive tests, between groups < 1000 hours exposure and the other who had > 1000 hours contact (p=0.032).

CONCLUSIONS: Because of, Interns’ high responsibilities and their more involvement in patient’s diagnostic and therapeutic process, they have high chance to contact with undiagnosed and diagnosed tuberculosis patients. Due to these reasons, TB infection rate is increasing among Interns. As a result of these findings, performing PPD test should be considered at the beginning of entrance to hospital departments and then annually. Necessary tasks and following up are needed to new positive cases.
Possibilities of Application of Transcatheter Treatment of Vascular Dementia with Binswanger’s Disease
Authors: Maksimovich Ivan V.
Published: October 2016

INTRODUCTION: The research is dedicated to the main features of brain angioarchitectonics caused by the development of Binswanger’s disease (BD), as well as to the effectiveness of the method of transcatheter laser revascularization of cerebral vessels in the treatment of this disease.MATERIALS: We examined 23 patients with BD whose age ranged from 58 to 81, mean age 78, including 15 (65.22%) men and 8 (34.78%) women. The examination included Clinical Dementia Rate (CDR), Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Index Bartels (IB), laboratory examination, scintigraphy (SG), rheoencephalography (REG), Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and cerebral multi-gated angiography (MUGA).14 (60.87%) patients underwent transcatheter interventions - Test Group.9 (39.13%) patients had conservative treatment - Control Group.RESULTS: Test Group: favorable clinical result - 9 (64.29%) cases; adequate clinical result - 5 (35.71%) cases; comparatively adequate and comparatively positive clinical results were not attained in any case.Control Group: favorable and adequate clinical results were not achieved in any case; comparatively adequate clinical result was gained in 7 (77.78%) cases; comparatively positive clinical result - in 2 (22.23%) cases.CONCLUSIONS: The method of transcatheter laser revascularization of cerebral vessels furthers natural angiogenesis, induces collateral and capillary revascularization both in ischemic areas and in closely located tissues, thereby improving cerebral blood flow. At the same time, laser energy promotes the restoration of metabolic processes in neurons. It significantly distinguishes the proposed method from conservative treatment.
The Qualitative Analysis of Turkish Adult Education System in Terms of Management Processes
Authors: Akyol Bertan
Published: October 2016

The aim of this study is to analyze the views of the administrators of public education centers in Turkey for the programs carried in their institutions in frame of the management processes which are decision-making, planning, organization, communication, coordination, affection and evaluation. For this purpose, 17 public education center administrators were interviewed. The responses that were taken have revealed that decisions are made by taking into account the needs of the trainees, the standards determined by Lifelong Learning General Directorate and the demands related to educational programs; planning is done according to reports of the commission and in frame of the criterions; for organization process, administrators fulfill all the essentials of organization process; in communication process, the administrators declare to take into consideration of the whole shareholders; for coordination process, the administrators declare that the centers experience problems especially about classrooms, trainers and material perform coordination activities in order to be able to meet these necessities; administrators use motivation techniques for both the trainees and the trainers; and lastly the administrators state that they use process evaluation and evaluate the trainees both during and at the end of the programs.
Can Entrepreneurship Education Reduce Stereotypes Against Women Entrepreneurship?
Authors: Türko Esra Sena
Published: October 2016

The aim of this study is to investigate whether entrepreneurship trainings can reduce stereotypes against women entrepreneurship. With this aim socio-psychological obstacles to women entrepreneurship in Turkey are examined, and an experimental study is carried out. Entrepreneurship courses were given with a special emphasis on women entrepreneurship and gender issues. To evaluate the out puts of the experimental study, a questionnaire was designed and applied to students. In order to make a comparison, the same questionnaire was applied to students from two other universities, who have taken entrepreneurship courses through the classical method and curricula.

Survey tool includes 21 statements on women entrepreneurship, 5 positive and 16 negative. A non-parametric Mann-Whitney U test was conducted to evaluate the hypothesis that the experimental group would score lower in negative statements and higher in positive statements, on the average, than the non-experimental group. Test results indicate that mean ranks for the two groups differ significantly from each other in 12 items (p<.05). Experimental group score significantly higher than the non-experimental group in 4 positive and 1 negative statements; and lower than the non-experimental group in 7 negative statements. Compared to non-experimental group, experimental group seems to have higher scoring for awareness and advocacy of women entrepreneurship and lower scoring for socio-psychological obstacles against women entrepreneurship. According to the survey results, it can be concluded that modification of entrepreneurship education curricula will contribute to reduce stereotypes hindering women entrepreneurship.
Literacy Globalization and the Demand for Cultural Change Policy
Authors: Peykani Mehraban Hadi , Rad Hadiyeh Tanhaie
Published: October 2016

Rapid change has faced, information technology and communications world in the last two decades of the new type of illiteracy, failure to comply with the growth of the doctrine of technology on the one hand and lack of attention to retraining and learning. Traditional methods, educational structures, policies and governing policies and implementations objectives governing this issue as a cultural phenomenon, no longer massive volume of demand for education is not responsive and necessary than of the government is faced with this problem, how can the different sectors of society with the transformation of the educational need.

It is important that policies that literacy is part of the culture of each country have formulated policies, which uses different parts of culture and cultural diversity of the lands is written and the synergies necessary for the growth of literacy in society and move towards balanced development to occur and cultural of diseases caused by the global growth of literacy and lack of coordination with different cultures prevent these teachings.

This paper, based on the policy objectives of literacy, the dynamics of education, culture and politics and its effects, globalization, education and cultural policies of governments, review modeling literacy policy based on cultural diversity and change and increased participation of all society.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for International Journal of Business and Management, Vol. 11 No. 11
Authors: Lee Stephen
Published: October 2016

Reviewer Acknowledgements for International Journal of Business and Management, Vol. 11 No. 11, 2016
Qatar Emerging as the Most Attractive FDI Destination in the GCC
Authors: Fernandez Manuel , Joseph Robinson
Published: October 2016

In this era of globalization and high competition each and every nation is trying to attract maximum investments from overseas for the development and growth of the economy. All GCC economies are in the growth mode and are dependent on the revenue from oil, but the current decline in oil prices have very badly affected these economies and all are targeting to secure maximum foreign direct investments (FDI). Many of the developed nations and Multinational Corporations are in the search of the best destinations for their investments. The purpose of this study is to identify the most attractive destination for FDI in the GCC. The flow of FDI into a country depends on the availability of a number of factors. This study probes into the existence of each of these factors in the various GCC countries. Secondary data is used to rank each country on the basis of the parameters that attract FDI. The findings indicate that Qatar is emerging as the most attractive FDI destination in the GCC. This paper is useful for all countries and MNCs who are searching for investment destinations in the GCC as it ranks the countries on the basis of the attractiveness of various determinants of FDI.
Evaluating the Program of Parents Behavioral Training and Cognitive Training Effect- the Child's Behavior on Decreasing the Symptoms of Deficit Attention Disorder/Hyperactivity
Authors: Nodoshan Ali Jafari , Dortaj Fariborz , Alizadeh Hamid , Farzad Valiollah , Sadeqie Tahereh
Published: October 2016

Deficit attention disorder/hyperactivity is one of the most popular psychiatric disorders in childhood. The aim of this study was evaluating and comparing the program of parent's behavioral training and cognitive training effect- The child's behavior on decreasing the symptoms of deficit attention disorder/hyperactivity of 8 to 12 years old children in Yazd city.This study is quasi-experimental and the research plan is multi-group pre-test - post-test with control group. The research sample consisted of 47 persons. Thus, the behavioral parent training group was replaced 17 persons, cognitive behavioral experimental group 15 persons and 15 persons control group.Data showed that parent's behavioral training has effect on decreasing the symptoms of deficit attention disorder/hyperactivity of 8 to 12 years olds children but child's behavior cognitive training doesn’t have effect on decreasing the symptoms of deficit attention disorder/hyperactivity.According to the research result which shows the efficiency of parent's behavioral training method than child's behavior cognitive training on decreasing the symptoms of deficit attention disorder/hyperactivity. It seems that using this training method is effective and can be suggested for reducing the symptoms of this disorder.
Research on Stock Adjustment Model of Chinese Pharmaceutical Industry in the Reforming Process of Mixed Ownership
Authors: Shi Shengyi , Wang Guangping , Huo Yanfei , Yi Baxian , Wu Xiaoming
Published: October 2016

The aim of Chinese pharmaceutical industry restructuring and upgrading is to achieve the transformation from incremental expansion to the stock adjustment road. As the mail strength of industrial restructuring, pharmaceutical companies of state-owned and state-holding are the main object of pharmaceuticals industry mixed ownership reforms. Basing on the analyzing of mixed ownership reforming process and industry restructuring, the paper discussed the impacting factors of Chinese pharmaceutical restructuring with the empirical analysis of Panel Data model. Result display that the state-owned companies perform the more quantity, extensive mode of production, which need the stock adjustment model. Restructuring road include the incremental and stock adjusting, micro-stock adjusting, social capital participating and state-owned capital exchange building.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for Public Administration Research, Vol. 5, No. 2
Authors: Sheng Vivian
Published: October 2016

Reviewer acknowledgements for Public Administration Research, Vol. 5, No. 2, 2016.
Federalism and Intergovernmental Relations in Africa: Retrospect and Prospects from Nigeria
Authors: Olaiya Taiwo Akanbi
Published: October 2016

This article diagnostically examined the several competing perspectives on the beleaguered nature of intergovernmental relations in Nigeria. Tracing the evolution of intergovernmental relation in Nigeria and espousing its legal, political and governance antecedents, the paper hazarded the undercurrent for the lingering conflicts between the center and the component units. The article also critically analyzed the impacts of the erstwhile British colonial strategy of division into regions as a means for administering the country and exploration of the mineral endowments in the 1950s on the composition and the current nature of predatory power that the center currently wields, much to the detriments and underfunding of the component units in the federation. The paper found evidences to showcase that because the British colonialists unduly queered the political pitch by allocating more seats to the North than to each of the other two regions at the center, intergovernmental relations in Nigeria has been quite contentious. If anything, a mutual suspicion between the North-dominated Federal Government and the Southern component units became a logical end. We concluded, among others, that notwithstanding the ample provisions in the 1999 Constitution for veritable intergovernmental relationship in Nigeria, there are still the intricate issues of regional domination of the center, leading to lack of political will to induce proper constitutional implementations.
November 2016 Problems
Authors: Pelikan Stephan , DeJarnette Anna F. , Phelps Stephen
Published: October 2016

A monthly set of problems is aimed at a variety of ability levels.
Leveraging Interactive Geometry Software to Prompt Discussion
Authors: Prasad Priya V.
Published: October 2016

Assess the robustness of students’ understanding of polygons and move students beyond drawing to constructing geometric shapes.
Star Cups Forever
Authors: Appova Aina K.
Published: October 2016

Students analyze the probability of receiving a lifetime of free coffee.
Pedro's kitchen tiles
Authors: Lenartowicz Loryn
Published: October 2016

Each month, elementary school teachers are presented with a problem along with suggested instructional notes and asked to use the problem in their classrooms and report solutions, strategies, reflections, and misconceptions to the journal audience. This month's problem asks students to help determine how many tiles are needed to remodel a kitchen.