bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COMBUSTION SYNTHESIS AND CHARACTERIZATION OF NANOCRYSTALLINE ALKALINE EARTH ALUMINATE Sr4Al14O25:RE(RE = Eu, Dy, Sm)
Authors: HEDAOO V. P. , BHATKAR V. B. , OMANWAR S. K.
Published: September 2013

Nanoscale phosphors have superior performance characteristics than the bulk phosphors. This paper explains the synthesis and characterization like XRD, FTIR, SEM and photoluminescence properties of nanocrystalline Sr 4 Al 14 O 25 doped with rare earth elements like europium, dysprosium and samarium by combustion method. XRD showed the nanoscale crystalline nature of as-prepared samples. SEM confirmed size of the particle less than 100 nm. Photoluminescent emission spectra showed strong orange red emission at 593 nm for Sr 4 Al 14 O 25: Sm 3+. The green emission of Eu 2+ was observed at around 490 nm for Sr 4 Al 14 O 25: Eu 2+.
PROBABILITY-BASED SERVICEABILITY EVALUATION OF BUILDINGS ADJACENT TO AN EXCAVATION USING RANDOM FINITE ELEMENT METHOD
Authors: TANG YU-GENG
Published: September 2013

Excavation design is usually controlled by the serviceability-based analysis of buildings adjacent to the excavation site. In practice, it is not easy to implement the serviceability-based analysis due to the uncertainty of many factors affecting excavation behavior. It is desirable to incorporate the probability analysis into the procedure to deal with the effects of the uncertainty in an excavation problem. In this present study, the Monte Carlo simulation is equipped into the existing finite element method code, which is capable of representing the small-strain stress–strain characteristics of soils, to form the random finite element method (RFEM). Then, the RFEM is employed to perform the probability-based serviceability evaluation of buildings adjacent to an excavation on a quality excavation case history. A flow chart for RFEM-based evaluation of excavation-induced damage to buildings is established. In addition, a simplified method, called the KJHH method, is also adopted to conduct the probability-based analysis on the issue of building damage potential. Three scenarios were planned to compare the performance of the RFEM and the KJHH methods. The results reveal that the developed RFEM is validated to be a useful tool to consider the uncertainty of input parameters in the evaluation of the damage potential of buildings adjacent to excavation.
LOWER BOUND FOR THE RATE OF BLOW-UP OF SINGULAR SOLUTIONS OF THE ZAKHAROV SYSTEM IN ℝ3
Authors: COLLIANDER JAMES , CZUBAK MAGDALENA , SULEM CATHERINE
Published: September 2013

We consider the scalar Zakharov system in ℝ3 for initial conditions (ψ(0), n(0), nt(0)) ∈ Hℓ+1/2 × Hℓ × Hℓ-1, 0 ≤ ℓ ≤ 1. Assuming that the solution blows up in a finite time t* < ∞, we establish a lower bound for the rate of blow-up of the corresponding Sobolev norms in the form [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text]. The analysis is a reappraisal of the local well-posedness theory of Ginibre, Tsutsumi and Velo [On the Cauchy problem for the Zakharov system, J. Funct. Anal.151 (1997) 384–436] combined with an argument developed by Cazenave and Weissler [The Cauchy problem for the critical nonlinear Schrödinger equation in Hs, Nonlinear Anal.14 (1990) 807–836] in the context of nonlinear Schrödinger equations.
GLOBAL CLASSICAL SOLUTIONS FOR A COMPRESSIBLE FLUID-PARTICLE INTERACTION MODEL
Authors: CHAE MYEONGJU , KANG KYUNGKEUN , LEE JIHOON
Published: September 2013

We consider a system coupling the compressible Navier–Stokes equations to the Vlasov–Fokker–Planck equation on three-dimensional torus. The coupling arises from a drag force exerted by each other. We establish the existence of the global classical solutions close to an equilibrium, and further prove that the solutions converge to the equilibrium exponentially fast.
ON MODELING THE GROWTH DYNAMICS OF A STAGE STRUCTURED POPULATION
Authors: BUFFONI GIUSEPPE , PASQUALI SARA
Published: September 2013

A Lagrangian modeling approach is applied to the numerical simulation of the temporal dynamics of a stage-structured population. The growth dynamics is determined only by the main biological processes: development of an individual, mortality, reproduction. Different approaches in modeling the development process of an individual are implemented: stochastic advection-diffusion models (backward–forward dispersion models), and stochastic development models where regression effects, defined as negative development on the status of an individual, are forbidden (forward dispersion models). Some properties of the residence times of an individual in a stage are investigated: in particular, their role in the calibration of the development models and in the estimation of some parameters introduced in the model equation. As a study case a multi-stage pelagic copepod population is considered. Trying to separate the effects of the main biological processes on the temporal dynamics, numerical simulations have been carried out in some idealized situations: first only the development of the individuals, neglecting mortality and reproduction, is considered; then the mortality process is introduced, and finally both the mortality and reproduction processes. The results of the numerical simulations, are compared and discussed.
A dileucine motif is involved in plasma membrane expression and endocytosis of rat sodium taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide (Ntcp)
Authors: Stross Claudia , Kluge Stefanie , Weissenberger Katrin , Winands Elisabeth , Häussinger Dieter , Kubitz Ralf
Published: September 2013

The sodium taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide (Ntcp) is the major uptake transporter for bile salts into liver parenchymal cells, and PKC-mediated endocytosis was shown to regulate the number of Ntcp molecules at the plasma membrane. In this study, mechanisms of Ntcp internalization were analyzed by flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, and Western blot analyses in HepG2 cells. PKC activation induced endocytosis of Ntcp from the plasma membrane by ∼30%. Endocytosis of Ntcp was clathrin dependent and was followed by lysosomal degradation. A dileucine motif located in the third intracellular loop of Ntcp was essential for endocytosis but also for processing and plasma membrane targeting, suggesting a dual function of this motif for intracellular trafficking of Ntcp. Mutation of two of five potential phosphorylation sites surrounding the dileucine motif (Thr225 and Ser226) inhibited PKC-mediated endocytosis. In conclusion, we could identify a motif, which is critical for Ntcp plasma membrane localization. Endocytic retrieval protects hepatocytes from elevated bile salt concentrations and is of special interest, because NTCP has been identified as a receptor for the hepatitis B and D virus.
Hemodynamic effects of implanting a unidirectional valve in the inferior vena cava of the Fontan circulation pathway: an in vitro investigation
Authors: Santhanakrishnan Arvind , Maher Kevin O. , Tang Elaine , Khiabani Reza H. , Johnson Jacob , Yoganathan Ajit P.
Published: September 2013

The Fontan surgical procedure used for treating patients with single ventricle congenital heart disorders results in a total cavopulmonary connection (TCPC) of the vena cavae to the pulmonary arteries (PAs). Sluggish TCPC flow and elevated hepatic venous pressures are commonly observed in this altered physiology, which in turn can lead to long-term complications including liver congestion and cirrhosis. The hypothesis of this study is that placement of a unidirectional valve within the inferior vena cava (IVC) will improve hemodynamics of the Fontan circulation by preventing retrograde flow and lowering hepatic venous pressure. An in vitro experimental setup consisting of an idealized TCPC model with flexible walls was used for investigation, and a bovine venous valve was inserted in the IVC below the TCPC. Pressure fluctuations were introduced in the flow through the model to simulate venous pulsatility. Hemodynamics of baseline and valve-implanted conditions were compared across total caval flows ranging from 1.0 to 2.5 l/min with varying caval flow distributions. The results indicated that valve closure occurred for 15–20% of the total cycle, with consequent reduction in the upstream hepatic venous pressure by 5 to 10 mmHg. Energy loss (EL) through the TCPC was lowered with valve implantation to 20–50% of baseline, occurring across all flow conditions considered with mean caval and PA pressures greater than 10 mmHg. The results of this in vitro modeling suggest that IVC valve placement has the potential to improve hemodynamics in the Fontan circulation by decreasing hepatic venous hypertension and EL.
Oral Contraceptive Use and Risk of Breast, Cervical, Colorectal, and Endometrial Cancers: A Systematic Review
Authors: Gierisch Jennifer M. , Coeytaux Remy R. , Urrutia Rachel Peragallo , Havrilesky Laura J. , Moorman Patricia G. , Lowery William J. , Dinan Michaela , McBroom Amanda J. , Hasselblad Vic , Sanders Gillian D. , Myers Evan R.
Published: September 2013

Oral contraceptives may influence the risk of certain cancers. As part of the AHRQ Evidence Report, Oral Contraceptive Use for the Primary Prevention of Ovarian Cancer, we conducted a systematic review to estimate associations between oral contraceptive use and breast, cervical, colorectal, and endometrial cancer incidence. We searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Study inclusion criteria were women taking oral contraceptives for contraception or ovarian cancer prevention; includes comparison group with no oral contraceptive use; study reports quantitative associations between oral contraceptive exposure and relevant cancers; controlled study or pooled patient-level meta-analyses; sample size for nonrandomized studies ≥100; peer-reviewed, English-language; published from January 1, 2000 forward. Random-effects meta-analyses were conducted by estimating pooled ORs with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). We included 44 breast, 12 cervical, 11 colorectal, and 9 endometrial cancers studies. Breast cancer incidence was slightly but significantly increased in users (OR, 1.08; CI, 1.00–1.17); results show a higher risk associated with more recent use of oral contraceptives. Risk of cervical cancer was increased with duration of oral contraceptive use in women with human papillomavirus infection; heterogeneity prevented meta-analysis. Colorectal cancer (OR, 0.86; CI, 0.79–0.95) and endometrial cancer incidences (OR, 0.57; CI, 0.43–0.77) were significantly reduced by oral contraceptive use. Compared with never use, ever use of oral contraceptives is significantly associated with decreases in colorectal and endometrial cancers and increases in breast cancers. Although elevated breast cancer risk was small, relatively high incidence of breast cancers means that oral contraceptives may contribute to a substantial number of cases. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 22(11); 1931–43. ©2013 AACR.
Colorectal Adenoma Stem-like Cell Populations: Associations with Adenoma Characteristics and Metachronous Colorectal Neoplasia
Authors: Bartley Angela N. , Parikh Nila , Hsu Chiu-Hsieh , Roe Denise J. , Buckmeier Julie A. , Corley Lynda , Phipps Ron A. , Gallick Gary , Lance Peter , Thompson Patricia A. , Hamilton Stanley R.
Published: September 2013

Cancer stem cells have tumor-initiation and tumor-maintenance capabilities. Stem-like cells are present in colorectal adenomas, but their relationship to adenoma pathology and patient characteristics, including metachronous development of an additional adenoma (“recurrence”), has not been studied extensively. We evaluated the expression of aldehyde dehydrogenase isoform 1A1 (ALDH1A1), a putative stem cell marker, in baseline adenomas from the placebo arm of chemoprevention trial participants with colonoscopic follow-up. An exploratory set of 20 baseline adenomas was analyzed by ALDH1A1 immunohistochemistry with morphometry, and a replication set of 89 adenomas from 76 high-risk participants was evaluated by computerized image analysis. ALDH1A1-labeling indices (ALI) were similar across patient characteristics and in advanced and nonadvanced adenomas. There was a trend toward higher ALIs in adenomas occurring in the right than left colon (P = 0.09). ALIs of synchronous adenomas were correlated (intraclass correlation coefficient 0.67). Participants in both sample sets who developed a metachronous adenoma had significantly higher ALIs in their baseline adenoma than participants who remained adenoma free. In the replication set, the adjusted odds for metachronous adenoma increased 1.46 for each 10% increase in ALIs (P = 0.03). A best-fit algorithm–based cutoff point of 22.4% had specificity of 75.0% and positive predictive value of 70.0% for metachronous adenoma development. A larger population of ALDH1A1-expressing cells in an adenoma is associated with a higher risk for metachronous adenoma, independent of adenoma size or histopathology. If confirmed, ALDH1A1 has potential as a novel biomarker in risk assessment and as a potential stem cell target for chemoprevention. Cancer Prev Res; 6(11); 1162–70. ©2013 AACR.
Chromovitrectomy and the Vitreoretinal Interface
Authors: Schumann R.G. , Haritoglou C. ,   International Chromovitrectomy Collaboration
Published: September 2013

It still remains unclear to which extent the presence and the amount of retinal debris seen in internal limiting membrane (ILM) specimens harvested during macular surgery for macular holes or epiretinal membranes are related to the procedure of ILM peeling itself or to modifications of the surgical technique, such as application of vital dyes for visualization of the ILM, or to pathological conditions with epiretinal membrane formation at the vitreoretinal interface. The presence of cellular fragments on the retinal side of the removed ILM appears to be of multifactorial origin, and additional causes besides dye application need to be considered. However, morphological studies with evaluation of vital dyes are still of relevance and provide additional insights into the ultrastructure of the vitreoretinal interface and its interaction with adjuvants used during macular surgery. Chromovitrectomy is an emerging field in vitreoretinal surgery. It is of importance to better understand the tissue-dye interactions, which not only alter the mechanical properties of the tissue being stained, but may also have an impact on the functional result postoperatively.
Therapeutic Apheresis in Pediatric Patients with Acute CNS Inflammatory Demyelinating Disease
Authors: Koziolek Michael , Mühlhausen Johannes , Friede Tim , Ellenberger David , Sigler Matthias , Huppke Brenda , Gärtner Jutta , Müller Gerhard-Anton , Huppke Peter
Published: September 2013

Background/Aims: In adults, plasma exchange (PE) has been shown to be an efficient treatment for severe relapses of acute inflammatory CNS demyelinating diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of this treatment in pediatric patients. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed a single-center cohort of pediatric patients with inflammatory CNS demyelinating disorders who underwent apheresis between 2007 and 2011. Results: Ten patients (mean age: 11.6 ± 3.4 years) with an acute relapse of multiple sclerosis (n = 5), neuromyelitis optica (n = 2) or acute disseminated encephalomyelitis were included. All received methylprednisolone prior to treatment with either PE (n = 5) or immunoadsorption (n = 5). Apheresis-related side effects were either self-limiting or easily managed. EDSS (Expanded Disability Status Scale) improved in 7 of 8 patients during apheresis and in all patients within 30 days from a median of 7.5 to 1 (p < 0.01). The visual acuity initially worsened during the procedure in 3 of 7 affected eyes (mean 0.09), but improved in all at follow-up (mean: 0.5; p = 0.008). Conclusions: Apheresis was well tolerated and associated with a favorable outcome in all pediatric patients similar to reports in adults.
A Trichrome RGB Endoillumination Prototype System: A Novel Application for Chromovitrectomy
Authors: Saxena Sandeep , Meyer Carsten H. ,   International Chromovitrectomy Collaboration
Published: September 2013

Introduction: LED cold light sources are utilized nowadays for endoillumination in vitreoretinal surgery. We investigated the effects of an individual mixing of red, green and blue (RGB) light from an LED illumination prototype for chromovitrectomy. Methods and Technique: A novel RGB LED cold light illumination system (Dieter Mann GmbH, Mainaschaff, Germany) contains 3 RGB light sources, allowing for an individual mixing of light, so that the surgeon can adjust and control the color quality and intensity of the applied light during chromovitrectomy. Results: Adding or subtracting the amount of any RGB light will consecutively change the resulting color of the light in the eye. The visualization of the retina or semitransparent naïve structures like the vitreous depends on the illumination. The visualization of epiretinal membranes stained with vital dyes can be enhanced by an individual adjustment of the applied light. Conclusion: Selective subtraction of one RGB light unit may increase the visibility of delicate structures during pars plana vitrectomy.
Live-Supervision: Vom Einwegspiegel zur videobasierten Online-Supervision
Authors: Jakob Marion , Weck Florian , Bohus Martin
Published: September 2013

Live-Supervision ermöglicht dem Supervisor, Einblicke in eine laufende Therapiesitzung zu erhalten und in diese beratend einzugreifen. Die direkte Rückmeldung des Supervisors an den Supervisanden stellt dabei ein wichtiges Unterscheidungsmerkmal zu nachträglichen Supervisionsformen dar. In den letzten 60 Jahren wurden verschiedene Formen der Live-Supervision entwickelt, die im Rahmen dieser Arbeit in Hinblick auf ihre Praktikabilität, Akzeptanz und Effektivität diskutiert werden. Aufgrund der vielen Vorteile von videobasierter Live-Supervision («bug-in-the-eye», BITE) wird in dem aktuellen Beitrag ein besonderes Augenmerk auf diese neueste Entwicklung der Live-Supervision gelegt. Während einer BITE-Supervisionssitzung verfolgt der Supervisor die Therapie online über eine Videokamera und hat die Möglichkeit, über einen Monitor direkte Hinweise an den Therapeuten zu geben. Bei diesem Supervisionsformat ist es dem Supervisor möglich, die Supervision andernorts via Internet durchzuführen. In der vorliegenden Arbeit werden konkrete Hinweise für die Durchführung einer BITE-Supervisionssitzung gegeben. Zudem werden auf der Basis von 25 BITE-Sitzungen erste Ergebnisse einer Studie zur Akzeptanz dieses Verfahrens berichtet. Hierbei zeigte sich, dass die Akzeptanz von BITE-Supervision bei Therapeuten, Supervisoren und Patienten sehr hoch ist und diese als nützlich und hilfreich eingeschätzt wird. Abschließend wird diskutiert, auf welche Weise BITE-Supervision in die Psychotherapieausbildung integriert werden könnte.
Effect of Vital Dyes on Retinal Pigmented Epithelial Cell Viability and Apoptosis: Implications for Chromovitrectomy
Authors: Penha Fernando M. , Pons Marianne , de Paula Fiod Costa Elaine , Rodrigues Eduardo B. , Maia Mauricio , Marin-Castaño Maria E. , Farah Michel Eid ,   International Chromovitrectomy Collaboration
Published: September 2013

Purpose: To investigate the in vitro effect of vital dyes on toxicity and apoptosis in a human retinal pigment epithelial cell line. Methods: ARPE-19 cells were exposed to brilliant blue (BBG), Evans Blue (EB), bromophenol blue (BroB), indocyanine green (ICG), infracyanine green (IfCG), light green (LG), fast green (FG), indigo carmine (IC) and Congo red (CR). Balanced salt solution was used as the control. Five different concentrations and 2 exposure times were tested. Cell viability was determined by the MTS (1-solution methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium) assay and apoptosis by Bax expression on Western blot. Results: All dyes significantly reduced cell viability after 3 min of exposure at all concentrations (p < 0.01), except for BBG that was safe at concentrations up to 0.25 mg/ml and CR up to 0.05 mg/ml, while LG was safe at all concentrations. Toxicity was higher after 30 min of exposure. Expression of Bax was upregulated after all dye exposures, except BBG; ICG had the highest Bax expression (p < 0.01). Conclusions: Overall the safest dye was BBG followed by LG, IfCG, FG, CR, IC, BroB, EB and ICG. ICG was toxic at all concentrations and exposure times tested. Moreover, BBG was the only dye that did not induce apoptosis in ARPE-19 cells.
Letrozole Efficacy in the Treatment of Granulosa Cell Tumor of the Ovary: A Case Report
Authors: Kourie Hampig R. , Kattan Joseph , Antoun Joelle , Sleilaty Fadi
Published: September 2013

Background: Granulosa cell tumors (GCT) are malignant tumors of the sex cord stroma representing 5% of all malignant ovarian tumors. Their treatment is surgery, and rarely chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Recently, salvage treatment with aromatase inhibitors was suggested based on few reported clinical cases. Case Report: We present the case of a 61-year-old woman with unresectable recurrent GCT of the right ovary treated with the aromatase inhibitor letrozole. Tumor mass and peritoneal carcinomatosis decreased in size allowing almost complete surgical resection. The patient remained in complete clinical remission for at least 24 months after surgery while under letrozole. Conclusion: Aromatase inhibitors represent an innovative treatment for these rare and refractory tumors offering promising results while avoiding toxic and marginally active chemotherapeutic agents.
Transient Ischemic Dilation in Patients With Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Petretta Mario , Acampa Wanda , Daniele Stefania , Petretta Maria Piera , Plaitano Monica , Cuocolo Alberto
Published: September 2013

Background—

We prospectively evaluated the incremental prognostic value of transient ischemic dilation (TID) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus during long-term follow-up and estimated cardiac death and nonfatal myocardial infarction (MI) using traditional approaches of prognostication to more recent methods.

Methods and Results—

A total of 672 consecutive diabetic patients with available rest and stress gated myocardial perfusion single-photon emission computed tomographic data were enrolled. Stepwise Cox regression analysis was used to estimate cardiac death or nonfatal MI. Risk reclassification was calculated, and an exploratory analysis was performed to evaluate the effect of coronary revascularization on event-free survival. Adding TID to a multivariable model, including age, history of MI, stress type, poststress left ventricular ejection fraction, and stress-induced myocardial ischemia, improved discrimination of cardiac death or nonfatal MI (C statistic, 0.74–0.82;
P
=0.01; adjusted hazard ratio, 3.6;
P
<0.0001) and led to a net reclassification improvement of 0.39 (95% confidence interval, 0.14–0.64). Revascularization had a significant effect on event-free survival (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.25;
P
<0.001), with significant interactions between revascularization and poststress left ventricular ejection fraction, revascularization and stress-induced myocardial ischemia, and revascularization and TID (all
P
<0.01)

Conclusions—

TID provides independent and incremental prognostic information for the prediction of cardiac death or nonfatal MI in patients with diabetes mellitus. The addition of TID to a prediction model based on cardiovascular risk factors, left ventricular ejection fraction, and ischemia significantly improves risk discrimination and reclassification for incident cardiac events. The effect of revascularization seems to be influenced by left ventricular systolic function, stress-induced myocardial ischemia, and TID.
Endothelial Microparticle–Mediated Transfer of MicroRNA-126 Promotes Vascular Endothelial Cell Repair via SPRED1 and Is Abrogated in Glucose-Damaged Endothelial Microparticles
Authors: Jansen Felix , Yang Xiaoyan , Hoelscher Marion , Cattelan Arianna , Schmitz Theresa , Proebsting Sebastian , Wenzel Daniela , Vosen Sarah , Franklin Bernardo S. , Fleischmann Bernd K. , Nickenig Georg , Werner Nikos
Published: September 2013

Background—

Repair of the endothelium after vascular injury is crucial for preserving endothelial integrity and preventing the development of vascular disease. The underlying mechanisms of endothelial cell repair are largely unknown. We sought to investigate whether endothelial microparticles (EMPs), released from apoptotic endothelial cells (ECs), influence EC repair.

Methods and Results—

Systemic treatment of mice with EMPs after electric denudation of the endothelium accelerated reendothelialization in vivo. In vitro experiments revealed that EMP uptake in ECs promotes EC migration and proliferation, both critical steps in endothelial repair. To dissect the underlying mechanisms, Taqman microRNA array was performed, and microRNA (miR)-126 was identified as the predominantly expressed miR in EMPs. The following experiments demonstrated that miR-126 was transported into recipient human coronary artery endothelial cells by EMPs and functionally regulated the target protein sprouty-related, EVH1 domain-containing protein 1 (SPRED1). Knockdown of miR-126 in EMPs abrogated EMP-mediated effects on human coronary artery endothelial cell migration and proliferation in vitro and reendothelialization in vivo. Interestingly, after simulating diabetic conditions, EMPs derived from glucose-treated ECs contained significantly lower amounts of miR-126 and showed reduced endothelial repair capacity in vitro and in vivo. Finally, expression analysis of miR-126 in circulating microparticles from 176 patients with stable coronary artery disease with and without diabetes mellitus revealed a significantly reduced miR-126 expression in circulating microparticles from diabetic patients.

Conclusions—

Endothelial microparticles promote vascular endothelial repair by delivering functional miR-126 into recipient cells. In pathological hyperglycemic conditions, EMP-mediated miR-126–induced EC repair is altered.
Estimating Three-Dimensional Cloud Structure via Statistically Blended Satellite Observations
Authors: Miller Steven D. , Forsythe John M. , Partain Philip T. , Haynes John M. , Bankert Richard L. , Sengupta Manajit , Mitrescu Cristian , Hawkins Jeffrey D. , Vonder Haar Thomas H.
Published: September 2013

The launch of the NASA CloudSat in April 2006 enabled the first satellite-based global observation of vertically resolved cloud information. However, CloudSat’s nonscanning W-band (94 GHz) Cloud Profiling Radar (CPR) provides only a nadir cross section, or “curtain,” of the atmosphere along the satellite ground track, precluding a full three-dimensional (3D) characterization and thus limiting its utility for certain model verification and cloud-process studies. This paper details an algorithm for extending a limited set of vertically resolved cloud observations to form regional 3D cloud structure. Predicated on the assumption that clouds of the same type (e.g., cirrus, cumulus, and stratocumulus) often share geometric and microphysical properties as well, the algorithm identifies cloud-type-dependent correlations and uses them to estimate cloud-base height and liquid/ice water content vertical structure. These estimates, when combined with conventional retrievals of cloud-top height, result in a 3D structure for the topmost cloud layer. The technique was developed on multiyear CloudSat data and applied to Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) swath data from the NASA Aqua satellite. Data-exclusion experiments along the CloudSat ground track show improved predictive skill over both climatology and type-independent nearest-neighbor estimates. More important, the statistical methods, which employ a dynamic range-dependent weighting scheme, were also found to outperform type-dependent near-neighbor estimates. Application to the 3D cloud rendering of a tropical cyclone is demonstrated.
Working with the grain for reforming the public service: a live example from Sierra Leone
Authors: Srivastava Vivek , Larizza Marco
Published: September 2013

Development practitioners still lack a critical mass of empirical evidence that can help identify the set of interventions that are most likely to work, and inform the design and implementation of feasible reforms. This article contributes to filling this gap by looking at the case of the ‘Sierra Leone Pay and Performance Project’, a World Bank-supported initiative to reform the civil service. It analyzes the functional problems characterizing the civil service and discusses what factors account for the observed dysfunctions. The central argument is that the current dysfunctions might be difficult to reverse as they define a sub-optimal equilibrium which serves political purposes ( dysfunctions by design). However, politics is not all that matters. This equilibrium is further reinforced by systemic dysfunctions that may not be the consequence of any strategic design or the outcome of elite preferences ( dysfunctions by default). This is where there is scope for change, even in the short run. Accordingly, the chances of successful civil service reforms are likely to be maximized if reform initiatives support modest and incremental changes that ‘work with the grain’ of existing incentives and are consistent with government preferences. The Sierra Leone Pay and Performance Project aims to do so by adopting a limited and targeted focus on pay reform, performance management and recruitment and staffing. In addition, the use of the results-based lending instrument is expected to help mitigate the current dysfunctions by aligning the incentives of the various players and, in this way, create the conditions for greater coordination across government agencies. Although the suggested approach is not without risks, recent dynamics suggest that the chances of success are greater today than in the past.

Points for practitioners

The article shows how project design can be improved by identifying the functional problems underlying civil service performance, with a special focus on the interests and purposes that they serve. Such ‘prospective’ political economy analysis can inform Bank efforts to (i) identify the context-appropriate and politically salient reform solutions; (ii) design the critical path for achieving these reform objectives; and, most importantly, (iii) select the appropriate lending instrument. The Sierra Leone example also suggests that results-based lending approaches are more amenable to ‘working with the grain’ and provide a promising way forward on public service reforms in difficult political environments.
War and famine, peace and light? The economic dynamics of conflict in Somalia 1993–2009
Authors: Shortland Anja , Christopoulou Katerina , Makatsoris Charalampos
Published: September 2013

The literature on war economies argues that prolonged civil wars have an economic logic: certain groups may obtain material gains from committing acts of violence and hence resist peacebuilding efforts. Objective tests of these predictions have so far been limited, as corruption and conflict prevent the collection of reliable economic data on the ground. Remote sensing and Geographic Information Science techniques enable us to overcome these problems of terrestrial data collection. Electricity consumption manifested as night-time light emissions recorded in satellite images is proposed as a proxy for changes in disposable income in Somalia’s cities. The nightlight images provide striking illustrations of economic decline and recovery and clearly show the contrast between the stable regions of Northern Somalia and the chaos and anarchy of Southern Somalia. Based on geospatial analyses of settlement patterns in Somali cities, we argue that specific metrics of light output can be used to proxy for the incomes of different social groups. We use geo-coded conflict event data to analyze the economic impact of conflict on local light output and therefore incomes. We find a significant peace dividend for poorer households located at the margins of cities, which benefit both from local stability and more peaceful conditions in the country as a whole. By contrast, the central business districts are relatively well insulated from the effects of local conflict, and violence in Mogadishu has positive effects on light output from cities where humanitarian aid agencies are located. Future peace initiatives need to confront these economic incentives for continued conflict and state failure in Somalia.
Against the State
Authors: Chen Feng
Published: September 2013

Deriving evidence from Neican (Internal Reference), this article demonstrates that labor unrest in the 1950s was rooted in inherent tensions in the state’s efforts to reconstruct state-labor relations. With the state’s increasing control over industry and the emerging paternalistic institutions, workers came to see the state, as it presented itself, as the patron of their interests, and they expected its economic protection. Consequently, the discrepancy between the state’s socialist promises and some of the policies and the practices of its agencies often disappointed and disillusioned workers and became a major source of grievances, triggering protests. Labor protests in the 1950s signified the rise of a new pattern of worker reaction to adverse economic conditions, one in which workers held the government responsible for their grievances. This was a pattern that would be seen more clearly more than forty years later when market reform led to massive protests by laid-off workers.
Evidence of the Environmental Kuznets’ Curve among US Counties and the Impact of Social Capital
Authors: Keene Ashleigh , Deller Steven C.
Published: September 2013

In this applied study, we use US county data to examine patterns in fine particulates (also called fine particulate matter or PM2.5) ambient concentrations as a measure of air pollution within the framework of the environmental Kuznets’ curve (EKC). We pay particular attention to the role of social capital and notions of ruralness. Consistent with expectations, we find that peak of the EKC ranges between US$24,000 and US$25,500 for PM2.5 concentrations depending on the estimator used. Also consistent with expectations, higher levels of social capital places downward pressure on PM2.5 concentrations, but that effect is weaker in more rural areas. The implication is that the promotion of economic growth may harm the environment at lower levels of income but will improve the environment as income continues to grow.
Propranolol Responsiveness in Vascular Tumors Is Not Determined by Qualitative Differences in Adrenergic Receptors
Authors: Boucek Robert J. , Kirsh Andrew L. , Majesky Mark W. , Perkins Jonathan A.
Published: September 2013

Propranolol, a beta 1 (ADBR1) and beta 2 (ADBR2) adrenergic receptor blocker, accelerates regression of proliferating infantile hemangiomas (IH‐P) while not affecting non‐involuting congenital hemangiomas (NICH) and nonproliferating IH (IH‐NP). To determine the expression of ADBRs in vascular tumors, immunofluorescent staining and confocal microscopy were employed to determine the in situ cellular distribution of ADBRs in formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded tissue sections of IH‐P, IH‐NP, and NICH. In situ cellular proliferation, indexed by Ki‐67 expression, distinguished IH‐P (n = 3) from both IH‐NP (n = 3) and NICH (n = 2). In IH‐P, IH‐NP, and NICH tumor sections, both ADBR1 and ADBR2 were co‐localized in both endothelial cells (ECs; GLUT1+ in IH; CD31+ in NICH) and pericytes (smooth muscle actin). We tentatively conclude that either EC and/or pericytes in IH‐P could be target(s) of propranolol. Cell proliferation, but not absence of either class of ADBR, distinguished the propranolol responsive IH‐P from the nonresponsive IH‐NP and NICH.
The Economic Crisis of 2008 and Its Substantive Implications for Public Affairs
Authors: Ventriss Curtis
Published: September 2013

This article examines the intellectually and pragmatic challenges posed by the economic crisis of 2008 on public administration and public policy. It will be argued that we need to confront 5 major challenges that will,hopefully, provoke a more lively debate in the field about the substantive implications of this economic crisis. While these 5 challenges are hardly exhaustive, such challenges may force us to ask different questions that could elevate and enrich the intellectual enterprise we aspire to be.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection in Cattle
Authors: Sacco R. E. , McGill J. L. , Pillatzki A. E. , Palmer M. V. , Ackermann M. R.
Published: September 2013

Bovine respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a cause of respiratory disease in cattle worldwide. It has an integral role in enzootic pneumonia in young dairy calves and summer pneumonia in nursing beef calves. Furthermore, bovine RSV infection can predispose calves to secondary bacterial infection by organisms such as Mannheimia haemolytica, Pasteurella multocida, and Histophilus somni, resulting in bovine respiratory disease complex, the most prevalent cause of morbidity and mortality among feedlot cattle. Even in cases where animals do not succumb to bovine respiratory disease complex, there can be long-term losses in production performance. This includes reductions in feed efficiency and rate of gain in the feedlot, as well as reproductive performance, milk production, and longevity in the breeding herd. As a result, economic costs to the cattle industry from bovine respiratory disease have been estimated to approach $1 billion annually due to death losses, reduced performance, and costs of vaccinations and treatment modalities. Human and bovine RSV are closely related viruses with similarities in histopathologic lesions and mechanisms of immune modulation induced following infection. Therefore, where appropriate, we provide comparisons between RSV infections in humans and cattle. This review article discusses key aspects of RSV infection of cattle, including epidemiology and strain variability, clinical signs and diagnosis, experimental infection, gross and microscopic lesions, innate and adaptive immune responses, and vaccination strategies.
Psychological Strengths and Posttraumatic Growth in the Successful Reintegration of South African Ex-Offenders
Authors: Guse Tharina , Hudson Daphne
Published: September 2013

This study aimed to explore the possible presence of psychological strengths and posttraumatic growth in the life stories of ex-offenders who desisted returning to crime. Recidivism rates in South African offenders released from prison remain as high as 97%. Little is known about positive psychological factors that may facilitate successful reentry of ex-offenders in the South African context. In an exploratory qualitative study, three adult male ex-offenders who had successfully reintegrated into society were interviewed, using a semi-structured interview schedule focusing on their life stories. Data was analyzed using thematic analysis. Several psychological strengths, including hope, gratitude, and spirituality, were evident in the responses of the participants. Furthermore, they seemed to experience a sense of posttraumatic growth. Identifying psychological strengths, including character strengths, may add to understanding and facilitating successful reintegration of ex-offenders. From these preliminary findings, implications for practice and research are proposed.
Predictability of time-varying jump premiums: Evidence based on calibration
Authors: Wang Kent , Guo Yuqiang
Published: September 2013

This study supplies new evidence regarding the predictive power of jumps for conditional market returns and volatilities. We change the constant jump intensity as in the Liu et al. and Du models with time-varying intensity following an autoregressive conditional jump intensity process and a squared Bessel process, and apply calibrated jump premiums to predict excess market returns and volatilities. We show that all calibrated jump premiums have significant predictive power in-sample and out-of-sample. We find that in the US market Liu et al.’s model forecasts excess returns and volatilities better. The autoregressive conditional jump intensity process of jump intensity predicts excess returns better, and the squared bessel process forecasts volatilities better. In the Australian market we find that the model with autoregressive conditional jump intensity process of jump intensity predicts Australian market returns and volatilities better.
Patient-Reported Knee Function, Quality of Life, and Activity Level After Bilateral Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries
Authors: Fältström Anne , Hägglund Martin , Kvist Joanna
Published: September 2013

Background:

About 12% of patients who have undergone primary anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction sustain a contralateral ACL injury within 5 years.

Purpose:

To investigate patient-reported knee function, quality of life, and activity level in patients with bilateral ACL injuries.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A search of hospital records identified 147 patients, aged 18 to 45 years, with bilateral ACL injuries. Of these, 83 met the inclusion criteria, having had their first ACL injury up to 12 years ago with no other major injuries to the knee joint. Sixty-six of these patients (80% of total; 47% female; mean age, 29.1 ± 7.2 years) answered a questionnaire packet. Patients who had undergone unilateral ACL reconstruction (n = 182) were used for comparison.

Results:

Patients with bilateral ACL injuries had a median Lysholm knee score of 82 (range, 34-100). The mean EuroQol index (EQ-5D) score of the overall health status was 0.77 ± 0.22, and the mean EQ-5D visual analog scale score was 75.5 ± 17.6. The median Tegner activity level was 9 (range, 1-9) before any injuries, 7 (range, 1-9) before the second ACL injury, and 4 (range, 1-9) at the time of follow-up. The activity level before the second injury was higher compared with the follow-up for patients who had undergone unilateral ACL reconstruction. At follow-up, 23% of the patients with bilateral ACL injuries returned to their previous activity, and 12% of patients returned to the same level as before their injuries compared with 43% ( P = .004) and 28% ( P = .01) in patients who had undergone unilateral ACL reconstruction, respectively. Patients with bilateral ACL injuries had significantly lower values in the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) subscales for pain, function in sports and recreation, and knee-related quality of life as well as the ACL Deficiency Quality of Life (ACL-QOL) score compared with patients who had undergone unilateral ACL reconstruction.

Conclusion:

Patients with bilateral ACL injuries reported poorer knee function and quality of life compared with those who had undergone unilateral ACL reconstruction. Their activities had changed, and they were dissatisfied with their current activity level. They had a high activity level before their first and second ACL injuries but an impaired activity level after their contralateral injury at follow-up.
Biomechanical Evaluation of Different Suture Techniques for Arthroscopic Transtibial Pull-out Repair of Posterior Medial Meniscus Root Tears
Authors: Feucht Matthias J. , Grande Eduardo , Brunhuber Johannes , Burgkart Rainer , Imhoff Andreas B. , Braun Sepp
Published: September 2013

Background:

A tear of the posterior medial meniscus root (PMMR) is increasingly recognized as a serious knee joint injury. Several suture techniques for arthroscopic transtibial pull-out repair have been described; however, only limited data about the biomechanical properties of these techniques are currently available.

Hypothesis:

There are significant differences between the tested suture techniques, with more complex suture configurations providing superior biomechanical properties.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A total of 40 porcine medial menisci were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 groups (10 specimens each) according to suture technique: two simple stitches (TSS), horizontal mattress suture (HMS), modified Mason-Allen suture (MMA), and two modified loop stitches (TLS). Meniscus-suture constructs were subjected to cyclic loading followed by load-to-failure testing in a servohydraulic material testing machine.

Results:

During cyclic loading, the HMS and TLS groups showed a significantly higher displacement after 100, 500, and 1000 cycles compared with the TSS and MMA groups. After 1000 cycles, the highest displacement was found for the TLS group, with significant differences compared with all other groups. During load-to-failure testing, the highest maximum load and yield load were observed for the MMA group, with statistically significant differences compared with the TSS and TLS groups. With regard to stiffness, the TSS and MMA groups showed significantly higher values compared with the HMS and TLS groups.

Conclusion:

The MMA technique provided the best biomechanical properties with regard to cyclic loading and load-to-failure testing. The TSS technique seems to be a valuable alternative. Both the HMS and TLS techniques have the disadvantage of lower stiffness and higher displacement during cyclic loading.

Clinical Relevance:

Using a MMA technique may improve healing rates and avoid progressive extrusion of the medial meniscus after transtibial pull-out repair of PMMR tears. The TSS technique may be used as an alternative that is easier to perform, but a more careful rehabilitation program is possibly necessary to avoid early failure.
The greenhouse gas and energy balance of different treatment concepts for bio-waste
Authors: Ortner Maria E , Müller Wolfgang , Bockreis Anke
Published: September 2013

The greenhouse gas (GHG) and energy performance of bio-waste treatment plants been investigated for three characteristic bio-waste treatment concepts: composting; biological drying for the production of biomass fuel fractions; and anaerobic digestion. Compared with other studies about the environmental impacts of bio-waste management, this study focused on the direct comparison of the latest process concepts and state-of-the-art emission control measures. To enable a comparison, the mass balance and products were modelled for all process concepts assuming the same bio-waste amounts and properties. In addition, the value of compost as a soil improver was included in the evaluation, using straw as a reference system. This aspect has rarely been accounted for in other studies. The study is based on data from operational facilities combined with literature data. The results show that all three concepts contribute to a reduction of GHG emissions and show a positive balance for cumulated energy demand. However, in contrast to other studies, the advantage of anaerobic digestion compared with composting is smaller as a result of accounting for the soil improving properties of compost. Still, anaerobic digestion is the environmentally superior solution. The results are intended to inform decision makers about the relevant aspects of bio-waste treatment regarding the environmental impacts of different bio-waste management strategies.
Sibling Caretaking Among Mexican American Youth
Authors: East Patricia L. , Hamill Sharon B.
Published: September 2013

This study examined how Mexican American youths’ extent of sibling caretaking is related to their personal and school adjustment, and whether mothers’ gender-role attitudes and youths’ familistic beliefs moderate these associations. One hundred and ninety-five Mexican American youth ( M age 14.8 years; 64% girls) and their mothers participated in the study. Youth completed questionnaires about their extent of sibling caretaking, their educational aspirations, school involvement, school absences, grades, and their prosocial tendencies. Results indicated that, when examined singly, frequent sibling caretaking was related to youths’ higher educational aspirations, greater prosocial tendencies, and more school engagement for older youth, but also to more school absences. When extensive sibling care was coupled with mothers’ sex-stereotyped attitudes, youth experienced poorer outcomes. Youth who held strong familistic beliefs and were highly involved in sibling care reported lower educational aspirations, particularly girls. Findings underscore the importance of considering socialization influences when evaluating associations between sibling caretaking and youths’ development.