bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Group Evacuation Behavior Based on Fire Effect in the Complicated Three‐Dimensional Space
Authors: Hu Jun , Sun Huijun , Gao Ge , Wei Juan , You Lei
Published: March 2014

In order to effectively depict the group evacuation behavior in the complicated three‐dimensional space, a novel pedestrian flow model is proposed with three‐dimensional cellular automata. In this model the calculation methods of floor field and fire gain are elaborated at first, and the transition gain of target position at the next moment is defined. Then, in consideration of pedestrian intimacy and velocity change, the group evacuation strategy and evolution rules are given. Finally, the experiments were conducted with the simulation platform to study the relationships of evacuation time, pedestrian density, average system velocity, and smoke spreading velocity. The results had shown that large‐scale group evacuation should be avoided, and in case of large pedestrian density, the shortest route of evacuation strategy would extend system evacuation time.
Adaptive Sliding Mode Control Method Based on Nonlinear Integral Sliding Surface for Agricultural Vehicle Steering Control
Authors: Li Taochang , Hu Jingtao
Published: March 2014

Automatic steering control is the key factor and essential condition in the realization of the automatic navigation control of agricultural vehicles. In order to get satisfactory steering control performance, an adaptive sliding mode control method based on a nonlinear integral sliding surface is proposed in this paper for agricultural vehicle steering control. First, the vehicle steering system is modeled as a second‐order mathematic model; the system uncertainties and unmodeled dynamics as well as the external disturbances are regarded as the equivalent disturbances satisfying a certain boundary. Second, a transient process of the desired system response is constructed in each navigation control period. Based on the transient process, a nonlinear integral sliding surface is designed. Then the corresponding sliding mode control law is proposed to guarantee the fast response characteristics with no overshoot in the closed‐loop steering control system. Meanwhile, the switching gain of sliding mode control is adaptively adjusted to alleviate the control input chattering by using the fuzzy control method. Finally, the effectiveness and the superiority of the proposed method are verified by a series of simulation and actual steering control experiments.
Wind and Wave Disturbances Compensation to Floating Offshore Wind Turbine Using Improved Individual Pitch Control Based on Fuzzy Control Strategy
Authors: Yang Feng , Song Qing-wang , Wang Lei , Zuo Shan , Li Sheng-shan
Published: March 2014

Due to the rich and high quality of offshore wind resources, floating offshore wind turbine (FOWT) arouses the attentions of many researchers. But on a floating platform, the wave and wind induced loads can significantly affect power regulation and vibration of the structure. Therefore, reducing these loads becomes a challenging part of the design of the floating system. To better alleviate these fatigue loads, a control system making compensations to these disturbances is proposed. In this paper an individual pitch control (IPC) system integrated with disturbance accommodating control (DAC) and model prediction control (MPC) through fuzzy control is developed to alleviate the fatigue loads. DAC is mainly used to mitigate the effects of wind disturbance and MPC counteracts the effects of wave on the structure. The new individual pitch controller is tested on the NREL offshore 5 MW wind turbine mounted on a barge with a spread-mooring system, running in FAST, operating above-rated condition. Compared to the original baseline collective pitch control (CPC) (Jonkman et al., 2007), the IPC system shows a better performance in reducing fatigue loads and is robust to complex wind and wave disturbances as well.
An Efficient Multitask Scheduling Model for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Yin Hongsheng , Qi Honggang , Xu Jingwen , Huang Xin , He Anping
Published: March 2014

The sensor nodes of multitask wireless network are constrained in performance-driven computation. Theoretical studies on the data processing model of wireless sensor nodes suggest satisfying the requirements of high qualities of service (QoS) of multiple application networks, thus improving the efficiency of network. In this paper, we present the priority based data processing model for multitask sensor nodes in the architecture of multitask wireless sensor network. The proposed model is deduced with the M/M/1 queuing model based on the queuing theory where the average delay of data packets passing by sensor nodes is estimated. The model is validated with the real data from the Huoerxinhe Coal Mine. By applying the proposed priority based data processing model in the multitask wireless sensor network, the average delay of data packets in a sensor nodes is reduced nearly to 50%. The simulation results show that the proposed model can improve the throughput of network efficiently.
A Real-Time Optical Tracking and Measurement Processing System for Flying Targets
Authors: Guo Pengyu , Ding Shaowen , Zhang Hongliang , Zhang Xiaohu
Published: April 2014

Optical tracking and measurement for flying targets is unlike the close range photography under a controllable observation environment, which brings extreme conditions like diverse target changes as a result of high maneuver ability and long cruising range. This paper first designed and realized a distributed image interpretation and measurement processing system to achieve resource centralized management, multisite simultaneous interpretation and adaptive estimation algorithm selection; then proposed a real-time interpretation method which contains automatic foreground detection, online target tracking, multiple features location, and human guidance. An experiment is carried out at performance and efficiency evaluation of the method by semisynthetic video. The system can be used in the field of aerospace tests like target analysis including dynamic parameter, transient states, and optical physics characteristics, with security control.
The Incremental Hybrid Natural Element Method for Elastoplasticity Problems
Authors: Ma Yongqi , Dong Yi , Zhou Yankai , Feng Wei
Published: March 2014

An incremental hybrid natural element method (HNEM) is proposed to solve the two‐dimensional elasto‐plastic problems in the paper. The corresponding formulae of this method are obtained by consolidating the hybrid stress element and the incremental Hellinger‐Reissner variational principle into the NEM. Using this method, the stress and displacement variables at each node can be directly obtained after the stress and displacement interpolation functions are properly constructed. The numerical examples are given to show the advantages of the proposed algorithm of the HNEM, and the solutions for the elasto‐plastic problems are better than those of the NEM. In addition, the performance of the proposed algorithm is better than the recover stress method using moving least square interpolation.
The Serum S100B Level as a Biomarker of Enteroglial Activation in Patients with Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Celikbilek Asuman , Celikbilek Mehmet , Sabah Seda , Tanık Nermin , Borekci Elif , Dogan Serkan , Akin Yavuz , Baldane Suleyman , Deniz Kemal , Yilmaz Neziha , Ozbakir Omer , Yucesoy Mehmet
Published: March 2014

Objective. Recent studies have demonstrated that enteric glial cells (EGC) participate in the homeostasis of the gastrointestinal tract. This study investigated whether enteroglial markers, including S100B protein and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), can serve as noninvasive indicators of EGC activation and disease activity in UC patients.Methods. This clinical prospective study included 35 patients with UC and 40 age- and sex-matched controls. The diagnosis of UC was based on standard clinical, radiological, endoscopic, and histological criteria. Clinical disease activity was evaluated using the Modified Truelove-Witts Severity Index. Serum samples were analyzed for human GFAP and S100B using commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits.Results. GFAP was not detected in the serum of either UC patients or controls (P>0.05). However, we found a significant (P<0.001) decrease in the serum S100B levels in the UC patients. No correlation between the serum S100B level and the disease activity or duration was observed (P>0.05). The serum S100B levels did not differ between UC patients with active disease (24 patients, 68.6%) or in remission (11 patients, 31.4%) (P>0.05).Conclusions. Ulcerative colitis patients had significantly lower serum S100B levels, while GFAP was of no diagnostic value in UC patients.
Identification of microRNA-135b in Stool as a Potential Noninvasive Biomarker for Colorectal Cancer and Adenoma
Authors: Wu Chung Wah , Ng Siew Chien , Dong Yujuan , Tian Linwei , Ng Simon Siu Man , Leung Wing Wa , Law Wai Tak , Yau Tung On , Chan Francis Ka Leung , Sung Joseph Jao Yiu , Yu Jun
Published: April 2014

Purpose: Detecting microRNA (miRNA) in stool is a novel approach for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening. This study aimed to identify stool-based miRNA as noninvasive biomarkers for detection of CRC and adenoma.

Experimental Design: A miRNA expression array covering 667 human miRNAs was performed on five pairs of CRC and two pairs of advanced adenoma tissues. The most upregulated miRNAs were validated in 40 pairs of CRC tissues, 16 pairs of advanced adenoma tissues, and 424 stool samples, including 104 CRCs, 169 adenomas, 42 inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), and 109 healthy controls. miRNA levels were followed-up after removal of lesions.

Results: In an array analysis, miR-31 and miR-135b were the most upregulated miRNAs in CRC and advanced adenoma as compared with their adjacent normal tissues (>13-fold increase). In stool samples, level of miR-135b was significantly higher in subjects with CRC (P < 0.0001) or adenomas (P < 0.0001), but not in patients with IBD compared with controls. miR-135b showed a significant increasing trend across the adenoma to cancer sequence (P < 0.0001). Levels of miR-31 were not significantly different among groups. The sensitivity of stool mR-135b was 78% for CRC, 73% for advanced adenoma, and 65% for any adenoma, respectively, with a specificity of 68%. No significant difference in the miR-135b level was found between proximal and distal colorectal lesions. Stool miR-135b dropped significantly upon removal of CRC or advanced adenoma (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion: Stool-based miR-135b can be used as a noninvasive biomarker for the detection of CRC and advanced adenoma. Clin Cancer Res; 20(11); 2994–3002. ©2014 AACR.
Inhibition of the Transition of Ductal Carcinoma In Situ to Invasive Ductal Carcinoma by a Gemini Vitamin D Analog
Authors: Wahler Joseph , So Jae Young , Kim Yeoun Chan , Liu Fang , Maehr Hubert , Uskokovic Milan , Suh Nanjoo
Published: April 2014

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is a nonmalignant lesion of the breast with the potential to progress to invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC). The disappearance and breakdown of the myoepithelial cell layer and basement membrane in DCIS have been identified as major events in the development of breast cancer. The MCF10DCIS.com cell line is a well-established model, which recapitulates the progression of breast cancer from DCIS to IDC. We have previously reported that a novel Gemini vitamin D analog, 1α,25-dihydroxy-20R-21(3-hydroxy-3-deuteromethyl-4,4,4-trideuterobutyl)-23-yne-26,27-hexafluoro-cholecalciferol (BXL0124) is a potent inhibitor of the growth of MCF10DCIS.com xenografted tumors without hypercalcemic toxicity. In this study, we utilized the MCF10DCIS.com in vivo model to assess the effects of BXL0124 on breast cancer progression from weeks 1 to 4. Upon DCIS progression to IDC from weeks 3 to 4, tumors lost the myoepithelial cell layer and basement membrane as shown by immunofluorescence staining with smooth muscle actin and laminin 5, respectively. Administration of BXL0124 maintained the critical myoepithelial cell layer as well as basement membrane, and animals treated with BXL0124 showed a 43% reduction in tumor volume by week 4. BXL0124 treatment decreased cell proliferation and maintained vitamin D receptor levels in tumors. In addition, the BXL0124 treatment reduced the mRNA levels of matrix metalloproteinases starting at week 3, contributing to the inhibition of invasive transition. Our results suggest that the maintenance of DCIS plays a significant role in the cancer preventive action of the Gemini vitamin D BXL0124 during the progression of breast lesions. Cancer Prev Res; 7(6); 617–26. ©2014 AACR.
6-Shogaol from Dried Ginger Inhibits Growth of Prostate Cancer Cells Both In Vitro and In Vivo through Inhibition of STAT3 and NF-κB Signaling
Authors: Saha Achinto , Blando Jorge , Silver Eric , Beltran Linda , Sessler Jonathan , DiGiovanni John
Published: April 2014

Despite much recent progress, prostate cancer continues to represent a major cause of cancer-related mortality and morbidity in men. Prostate cancer is the most common nonskin neoplasm and second leading cause of death in men. 6-Shogaol (6-SHO), a potent bioactive compound in ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe), has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and anticancer activity. In the present study, the effect of 6-SHO on the growth of prostate cancer cells was investigated. 6-SHO effectively reduced survival and induced apoptosis of cultured human (LNCaP, DU145, and PC3) and mouse (HMVP2) prostate cancer cells. Mechanistic studies revealed that 6-SHO reduced constitutive and interleukin (IL)-6–induced STAT3 activation and inhibited both constitutive and TNF-α–induced NF-κB activity in these cells. In addition, 6-SHO decreased the level of several STAT3 and NF-κB–regulated target genes at the protein level, including cyclin D1, survivin, and cMyc and modulated mRNA levels of chemokine, cytokine, cell cycle, and apoptosis regulatory genes (IL-7, CCL5, BAX, BCL2, p21, and p27). 6-SHO was more effective than two other compounds found in ginger, 6-gingerol, and 6-paradol at reducing survival of prostate cancer cells and reducing STAT3 and NF-κB signaling. 6-SHO also showed significant tumor growth inhibitory activity in an allograft model using HMVP2 cells. Overall, the current results suggest that 6-SHO may have potential as a chemopreventive and/or therapeutic agent for prostate cancer and that further study of this compound is warranted. Cancer Prev Res; 7(6); 627–38. ©2014 AACR.
Lack of Concordance Between Empirical Scores and Physician Assessments of Stroke and Bleeding Risk in Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Steinberg Benjamin A. , Kim Sunghee , Thomas Laine , Fonarow Gregg C. , Hylek Elaine , Ansell Jack , Go Alan S. , Chang Paul , Kowey Peter , Gersh Bernard J. , Mahaffey Kenneth W. , Singer Daniel E. , Piccini Jonathan P. , Peterson Eric D.
Published: March 2014

Background—

Physicians treating patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) must weigh the benefits of anticoagulation in preventing stroke versus the risk of bleeding. Although empirical models have been developed to predict such risks, the degree to which these coincide with clinicians’ estimates is unclear.

Methods and Results—

We examined 10 094 AF patients enrolled in the Outcomes Registry for Better Informed Treatment of AF (ORBIT-AF) registry between June 2010 and August 2011. Empirical stroke and bleeding risks were assessed by using the congestive heart failure, hypertension, age ≥75 years, diabetes mellitus, and previous stroke or transient ischemic attack (CHADS
2
) and Anticoagulation and Risk Factors in Atrial Fibrillation (ATRIA) scores, respectively. Separately, physicians were asked to categorize their patients’ stroke and bleeding risks: low risk (<3%); intermediate risk (3%–6%); and high risk (>6%). Overall, 72% (n=7251) in ORBIT-AF had high-risk CHADS
2
scores (≥2). However, only 16% were assessed as high stroke risk by physicians. Although 17% (n=1749) had high ATRIA bleeding risk (score ≥5), only 7% (n=719) were considered so by physicians. The associations between empirical and physician-estimated stroke and bleeding risks were low (weighted Kappa 0.1 and 0.11, respectively). Physicians weighed hypertension, heart failure, and diabetes mellitus less significantly than empirical models in estimating stroke risk; physicians weighted anemia and dialysis less significantly than empirical models when estimating bleeding risks. Anticoagulation use was highest among patients with high stroke risk, assessed by either empirical model or physician estimates. In contrast, physician and empirical estimates of bleeding had limited impact on treatment choice.

Conclusions—

There is little agreement between provider-assessed risk and empirical scores in AF. These differences may explain, in part, the current divergence of anticoagulation treatment decisions from guideline recommendations.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01165710.
Polyphasic characterization of Trichocoleus desertorum sp. nov. (Pseudanabaenales, Cyanobacteria) from desert soils and phylogenetic placement of the genus Trichocoleus
Authors: Muhlsteinova Radka , Johansen Jeffrey R. , Pietrasiak Nicole , Martin Michael P. , Osorio-Santos Karina , Warren Steven D.
Published: March 2014

Little is known about the taxonomic diversity of cyanobacteria in deserts, despite their important ecological roles in these ecosystems. In this study, cyanobacterial strains from the Atacama, Colorado, and Mojave Deserts were isolated and characterized using molecular, morphological, and ecological information. Phylogenetic placement of these strains was revealed through Bayesian and parsimony-based phylogenetic analyses utilizing sequences of the 16S rRNA gene and the associated 16S–23S ITS region. Based on the combined evidence of this polyphasic approach, a new species from desert soils morphologically corresponding to the genus Trichocoleus was described. Trichocoleus desertorum sp. nov. Mühlsteinová, Johansen et Pietrasiak was used to obtain a phylogenetic reference point for Trichocoleus, a genus so far characterized by morphological description only. Through characterization of this new taxon in desert soils we hope to contribute to the general understanding of cyanobacterial diversity in extreme arid habitats.
Could this be Australia’s rarest Banksia? Banksia vincentia (Proteaceae), a new species known from fourteen plants from south-eastern New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Stimpson Margaret Leith , BRUHL JEREMY J. , WESTON PETER H.
Published: March 2014

Possession of hooked, distinctively discolorous styles, a broadly flabellate common bract subtending each flower pair, and a lignotuber place a putative new species, Banksia sp. Jervis Bay, in the B. spinulosa complex. Phenetic analysis of individuals from all named taxa in the B. spinulosa complex, including B. sp. Jervis Bay, based on leaf, floral, seed and bract characters support recognition of this species, which is described here as Banksia vincentia M.L.Stimpson & P.H.Weston. Known only from fourteen individuals, B. vincentia is distinguished by its semi-prostrate habit, with basally prostrate, distally ascending branches from the lignotuber, and distinctive perianth colouring. Its geographical location and ecological niche also separate it from its most similar congeners.
A new species of Prepusa (Helieae, Gentianaceae) from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, with an emended key for the genus
Authors: Fraga Claudio Nicoletti de , FONTANA ANDRÉ PAVIOTTI , KOLLMANN LUDOVIC JEAN CHARLES
Published: March 2014

The new species Prepusa dibotrya from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest in Espírito Santo is described and illustrated, with comments on its ecology, geographical distribution, and conservation status. The new species is similar to P. viridiflora and must be considered “critically endangered” in accordance with the criteria of the IUCN Red List of endangered plant species.
Heterophyton, a new substitute name for Allophyton X.W. Wu (Pteridopsida)
Authors: Wang Faguo , Xing Fuwu
Published: March 2014

The filicopsid pteridophyta genus Allophyton X.W. Wu (1982) was established for A. dengqenensis X.W. Wu collected in Badasongduo, Dingqing County of Xizang Province, China. It was listed in Index of generic names founded on Mesozoic-cenozoic specimens from China (Wu 1993: 498) and its taxonomic position is unsettled. Rhizomopteris Schimp. (1869: 699) differs from it in its fine and furcate stem, and bundle scar in leaf scar hippocrepiform, Caulopteris Lindl. & Hutton (1832: xlix) differs from it in its leaf scar regular spread, and bundle scar in leaf scar hippocrepiform. The materials of Allophyton were collected in Mesozoic Coal Series strata, coal-bearing strata that were regarded as Jurassic by Li (1955) and from late Triassic to early-middle Jurassic by Si & Zhou (1962).
Saxicola syenitica Heuglin, 1869 (Aves: Passeriformes: Muscicapidae), an overlooked taxon of Oenanthe?
Authors: SHIRIHAI HADORAM , SCHWEIZER MANUEL , KIRWAN GUY M. , SVENSSON LARS
Published: April 2014

The North African population of the Black Wheatear has been treated as Oenanthe leucura syenitica for over 100 years. The type of syenitica was collected by Heuglin in June 1852 near the southern Egypt/northern Sudan border, well outside the range of the sedentary Black Wheatear. Morphometric inference and genetic analyses of partial sequences of the mitochondrial gene COI demonstrate that the type specimen of syenitica is not conspecific with O. leucura, but instead is closely related to O. lugens of the Middle East and North Africa, being most similar in plumage to O. lugens warriae of the basalt deserts of north-east Jordan and southern Syria. While syenitica was not separable in the analysed part of its mitochondrial DNA from O. l. lugens and O. l. warriae, it differs in morphometrics and plumage features from the latter. The type specimen is a first-summer bird with abraded plumage as expected for June, and may thus have been collected in its breeding range. Its morphological distinctiveness implies that syenitica might be taxonomically distinct from warriae. However, as it is known only from the type and its few associated data, we propose to treat it as a subspecies inquirenda of O. lugens. As a consequence of this, and the fact that we found no genetic or morphological differences between North African populations of O. leucura and riggenbachi Hartert, 1909, the name originally applied to the population in Western Sahara, the North African population takes the oldest available name to become O. leucura riggenbachi.
Paedomorphosis in the scolopendrid centipede genus Asanada
(Chilopoda: Scolopendromorpha) explains incongruence between morphological and molecular data sets
Authors: LEWIS JOHN G.E.
Published: April 2014

The morphological characters of members of the scolopendrid genus Asanada Meinert, 1886 are reviewed. A number of these characters are only seen in embryonic or early adolescent stadia in other scolopendrids. This suggests that the centipedes of this genus are paedomorphic. Support for this thesis is provided by the very rare appearance (in only three specimens) of some otherwise “adult” characters. This paedomorphosis, in all probability neoteny, may account for the recently described incongruence between morphological and molecular data with respect to the position of the genus seen in cladistic analyses.
A new species of striped Ichthyophis Fitzinger, 1826
(Amphibia: Gymnophiona: Ichthyophiidae) from Myanmar
Authors: WILKINSON MARK , PRESSWELL BRONWEN , SHERRATT EMMA , PAPADOPOULOU ANNA , GOWER DAVID J.
Published: April 2014

A new species of striped ichthyophiid caecilian, Ichthyophis multicolor sp. nov., is described on the basis of morphological and molecular data from a sample of 14 specimens from Ayeyarwady Region, Myanmar. The new species resembles superficially the Indian I. tricolor Annandale, 1909 in having both a pale lateral stripe and an adjacent dark ventrolateral stripe contrasting with a paler venter. It differs from I. tricolor in having many more annuli, and in many details of cranial osteology, and molecular data indicate that it is more closely related to other Southeast Asian Ichthyophis than to those of South Asia. The caecilian fauna of Myanmar is exceptionally poorly known but is likely to include chikilids as well as multiple species of Ichthyophis.
A new species of the genus Calotes (Squamata: Agamidae) from high elevations of the Knuckles Massif of Sri Lanka
Authors: AMARASINGHE A. A. THASUN , KARUNARATHNA D.M.S. SURANJAN , HALLERMANN JAKOB , FUJINUMA JUNICHI , GRILLITSCH HEINZ , CAMPBELL PATRICK D.
Published: April 2014

A new species of agamid lizard, of the genus Calotes, is described based on morphological evidence. This species is restricted to the Knuckles massif (>900 m elevation) of Sri Lanka. The genus Calotes consists of seven species in Sri Lanka, five of which appear to form an endemic radiation. The new species most closely resembles C. liocephalus Günther, 1872 which has an isolated population in the central highlands and is only known from Pundaluoya (~1000m), Dickoya (~1200m), Upcot (~1400m), Agrapatanas (1665m) and Peak Wilderness (Sri Pada) (>1400m). The populations from Pundaluoya and Dickoya appear to be locally extinct from the wild and are known only from museum specimens collected over 120 years ago. Males of the new species are different from males of C. liocephalus because of the absence of a gular pouch; by having mid gular scales smaller in size than those of its counterpart; scales on the snout which are larger in size than those on the occipital and forehead; pectoral scales which are not enlarged; elongated subcaudal scales; slightly carinate and acuminate abdominal scales; and scales on venter which are somewhat larger in size than those on dorsum at the same level. Finally, we also redescribe Calotes liocephalus, and provide a key to the Sri Lankan species of genus Calotes.
Sireuma, a new genus of subterranean millipedes from the Iberian Peninsula (Diplopoda, Chordeumatida, Opisthocheiridae)
Authors: REBOLEIRA ANA SOFIA P.S.
Published: April 2014

A new genus Sireuma is described to accommodate a new species, S. nobile, from a cave in Portugal. The unique features of the male gonopods and the absence of a postvulvar organ support the creation of a new genus. The new species is illustrated with scanning electron micrographs and diagrammatic drawings. Differences vis-à-vis its relatives are discussed, and information on the environment in which the new species was found is also provided.
Radar in Atmospheric Sciences and Related Research: Current Systems, Emerging Technology, and Future Needs
Authors: Bluestein Howard B. , Rauber Robert M. , Burgess Donald W. , Albrecht Bruce , Ellis Scott M. , Richardson Yvette P. , Jorgensen David P. , Frasier Stephen J. , Chilson Phillip , Palmer Robert D. , Yuter Sandra E. , Lee Wen-Chau , Dowell David C. , Smith Paul L. , Markowski Paul M. , Friedrich Katja , Weckwerth Tammy M.
Published: April 2014

To assist the National Science Foundation in meeting the needs of the community of scientists by providing them with the instrumentation and platforms necessary to conduct their research successfully, a meeting was held in late November 2012 with the purpose of defining the problems of the next generation that will require radar technologies and determining the suite of radars best suited to help solve these problems. This paper summarizes the outcome of the meeting: (i) Radars currently in use in the atmospheric sciences and in related research are reviewed. (ii) New and emerging radar technologies are described. (iii) Future needs and opportunities for radar support of high-priority research are discussed. The current radar technologies considered critical to answering the key and emerging scientific questions are examined. The emerging radar technologies that will be most helpful in answering the key scientific questions are identified. Finally, gaps in existing radar observing technologies are listed.
Adapting Two-Moment Microphysics Schemes across Model Resolutions: Subgrid Cloud and Precipitation Fraction and Microphysical Sub–Time Step
Authors: Chosson Frédérick , Vaillancourt Paul A. , Milbrandt Jason A. , Yau M. K. , Zadra Ayrton
Published: April 2014

Two-moment multiclass microphysics schemes are very promising tools to be used in high-resolution NWP models. However, they must be adapted for coarser resolutions. Here, a twofold solution is proposed—namely, a simple representation of subgrid cloud and precipitation fraction—as well as a microphysical sub-time-stepping method. The scheme is easy to implement, allows supersaturation in ice cloud, and exhibits flexibility for adoption across model grid spacing. It is implemented in the Milbrandt and Yau two-moment microphysics scheme with prognostic precipitation in the context of a simple 1D kinematic model as well as a mesoscale NWP model [the Canadian regional Global Environmental Multiscale model (GEM)]. Sensitivity tests were performed and the results highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of the two-moment multiclass cloud scheme relative to the classical Sundqvist scheme. The respective roles of subgrid cloud fraction, precipitation fraction, and time splitting were also studied. When compared to the Cloud–Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observations (CALIPSO)/CloudSat-retrieved cloud mask, cloud fraction, and ice water content, it is found that the proposed solutions significantly improve the behavior of the Milbrandt and Yau microphysics scheme at the regional NWP scale, suggesting that the subgrid cloud and precipitation fraction technique can be used across model resolutions.
Energetic Constraints on the Position of the Intertropical Convergence Zone
Authors: Bischoff Tobias , Schneider Tapio
Published: April 2014

The intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ) can shift meridionally on seasonal and longer time scales. Previous studies have shown that the latitude of the ITCZ is negatively correlated with cross-equatorial atmospheric energy transport. For example, the ITCZ shifts southward as the Northern Hemisphere cools and the northward cross-equatorial energy transport strengthens in response. It has remained unclear what controls the sensitivity of the ITCZ position to cross-equatorial energy transport and what other factors may lead to shifts of the ITCZ position. Here it is shown that the sensitivity of the ITCZ position to cross-equatorial energy transport depends on the net energy input to the equatorial atmosphere: the net radiative energy input minus any energy uptake by the oceans. Changes in this energy input can also lead to ITCZ shifts. The cross-equatorial energy transport is related through a series of approximations to interhemispheric asymmetries in the near-surface temperature distribution. The resulting theory of the ITCZ position is tested in idealized general circulation model simulations with a slab ocean as lower boundary condition. In the simulations, cross-equatorial energy transport increases under global warming (primarily because extratropical latent energy fluxes strengthen), and this shifts the ITCZ poleward. The ITCZ shifts equatorward if primarily the tropics warm in response to an increased net energy input to the equatorial atmosphere. The results have implications for explaining the varied response of the ITCZ to global or primarily tropical changes in the atmospheric energy balance, such as those that occur under global warming or El Niño.
Risk of Otitis Externa Following Manual Cerumen Removal
Authors: Guidi Jessica L. , Wetmore Ralph F. , Sobol Steven E.
Published: April 2014

Objectives:

Based on an interpretation of a recent Joint Commission protocol to sterilize instruments coming into contact with mucous membranes, there has been institutional interest in sterile packaging of cerumen curettes used for manual cerumen removal. To date, there are no studies that have assessed the risk of otitis externa (OE) following cerumen removal and the utility of sterile packaging is questionable. The objective of this study is to assess the incidence of OE following cerumen disimpaction prior to the implementation of sterile packaging at our institution.

Methods:

This was a retrospective chart review. Over a 1-year period, 1457 episodes of manual cerumen removal took place in the otolaryngology clinic. Charts were assessed for signs or symptoms of OE within 2 weeks of the procedure through follow-up phone calls and clinic visits in the otolaryngology division.

Results:

There were no patients who followed up with symptoms or signs suggestive of OE in the 2-week postprocedure period.

Conclusion:

There is no evidence that OE is a complication of manual cerumen removal when performed by otolaryngologists using clean technique. Unnecessary sterilization of tools leads to increased cost and time for this common outpatient procedure performed by the otolaryngologist.
Expression of Toll-Like Receptors 2, 4 and Nuclear Factor Kappa B in Mucosal Lesions of Human Otitis
Authors: Jesic Snezana , Jotic Ana , Tomanovic Nada , Zivkovic Maja , Kolakovic Ana , Stankovic Aleksandra
Published: April 2014

Objectives:

The objectives were to detect and compare the expression of toll-like receptors (TLRs) 2, 4 and nuclear factor kappa B in mucosal lesions of chronic otitis.

Methods:

Fifty-five tissue samples obtained from children and adults operated on for otitis were investigated by semiquantitative immunohistochemical methods using polyclonal antibodies for TLR 2, 4 and NFkB. Kruskal–Wallis, Mann–Whitney, and Kendall’s tau rank correlation tests were used.

Results:

Stronger expression of TLR2, 4 was found in inflamed mucosa than in the control for children and adults (TLR2: H = 23.86, P < .001; TLR4: H = 22.80, P < .001) (TLR2: H = 17.53, P < .001; TLR4: H = 11.99, P < .001); in cholesteatoma perimatrix compared to tubotympanic lesions in children (TLR2: H = 11.06, P = .004; TLR4: H = 10.61, P = .005) and adults (TLR2: H = 10.73, P = .013; TLR4: H = 9.65, P = .021). No differences were found in NFkB expression (H = 0.042, P = .99). Significant correlations were found for all pairs of molecules in cholesteatoma and tubotympanic mucosa of adults (TLR2, 4: P = .002, P < .001; TLR2-NfkB: P = .032, P = .021; TLR4-NFkB: P = .035, P = .0013), only TLR4-NFkB in tubotympanic otitis of children ( P = .026).

Conclusions:

Toll-like receptors 2, 4 and NFkB mediate inflammation in cholesteatoma and mucosal lesions of tubotympanic otitis in children and adults. Significant correlations between all pairs of molecules in all samples were detected in adults, but only TLR4-NFkB in children.
Utilizing Physician Screening Questions for Detecting Anxiety Among Food-Allergic Pediatric Patients
Authors: Rubes Melissa , Podolsky Anna H. , Caso Nicole , Ambrose Michael A. , Sicherer Scott H. , Shemesh Eyal , Annunziato Rachel A.
Published: April 2014

Objective. To explore the utility of clinician screening for anxiety in pediatric food-allergic patients. Study Design. In Phase I, 39 patients completed an anxiety questionnaire while their allergists completed a companion questionnaire estimating their patient’s responses. Allergists then attended an educational workshop to improve their anxiety detection. In Phase II, following the workshop, questionnaires were completed by an additional 39 patients and their allergists. Results. The percentage of clinician questionnaires with a “do not know” response decreased from 70% to 5% after the workshop. Correlation between allergists’ and children’s responses remained nonsignificant ( r = .314, P = .321) before the workshop and after ( r = .303, P = .068) and only 25% of patients who reported elevated anxiety were identified. Additionally, clinicians expressed poor acceptability of the screening. Conclusions. After the workshop, clinicians did not more accurately detect anxiety and found the process intrusive. Alternative methods for uncovering anxiety among high-risk patients are needed.
Social work is context-bound: The need for indigenization of social work practice in Nigeria
Authors: Ugiagbe Ernest Osas
Published: April 2014

This article evaluates how and to what extent indigenization of social work profession and practice in Nigeria can occur. There is a need to indigenize social work because of the shortcomings and inadequacies of Western social work theories and practices in addressing Nigerian social problems. For social work to succeed here, culture and tradition must be taken into consideration. Social work education and practices should incorporate some valuable local social-cultural practices. Social work should be indigenized in local contexts, that is, to accommodate the socio-cultural complexities of the over 350 ethnic groups and cultures in Nigeria.
Transforming Experience through English Use and Service-oriented Cultural Capital
Authors: Reierson Shannon , Celedón-Pattichis Sylvia
Published: April 2014

Study of the role of English use in the lives of two undocumented indigenous Honduran immigrants to the southwestern United States reveals that the label “illegal” applied to undocumented immigrants influences their integration into U.S. society. Participants in the study used social/cultural capital to intervene in their underclass status. English proficiency served as a credentialed skill that allowed them social mobility, and the cultural value of being of service enabled them to transform their experience.

Un estudio de la función de uso del inglés en las vidas de dos indígenas hondureños indocumentados en el suroeste de Estados Unidos revela que la etiqueta de “ilegal” aplicada a los inmigrantes indocumentados influye en su integración a la sociedad estadounidense. Los participantes en el estudio utilizaron capital social/cultural para intervenir en su condición de subclase. El dominio del idioma inglés sirvió como una habilidad reconocida que les permitía acceder a la movilidad social, y el valor cultural de ser de utilidad les permitió transformar su experiencia.
Trapped Behind the Lines
Authors: Rus Diane L. , Rus Jan
Published: April 2014

Between 2002 and 2007, Tsotsil Mayas from San Juan Chamula, Chiapas, Mexico, joined the “boom” of undocumented migration to the United States. At the migration’s peak, 41 percent of the men 15–34 years of age in a sample hamlet of 1,350 had crossed the border, most having borrowed the equivalent of US$1,500–2,000 at 10 percent/month interest to pay for the trip. Before most were able to pay back their loans, however, demand for their labor declined, finally crashing with the recession of 2007–2008. The men’s prolonged absences, first in the North and then as they were forced to depart a second time to try to pay their debts, have led to profound changes at home, including the feminization of work and shifts in family structure and roles in a community without young men.

Entre 2002 y 2007, los Mayas Tsotsiles de San Juan Chamula, Chiapas, México, se unieron al “boom” de la migración indocumentada hacia los Estados Unidos. Para 2006, 41 por ciento de los hombres de 15 a 34 años de edad en una aldea de muestra de 1,350 habitantes habían cruzado la frontera, habiendo pedido prestado cada uno el equivalente de US$1,500–2,000 con 10 por ciento de interés mensual para pagar su viaje. La demanda laboral disminuyó antes de que la mayoría pudiera saldar sus deudas, desplomándose finalmente con la recession de 2007–2008. Las ausencias de los hombres, primero en el Norte y luego conforme se vieron obligados a salir una segunda vez para tratar de satisfacer a sus acreedores, han resultado en profundos cambios en el lugar de origen. Estos incluyen la feminización del trabajo y cambios en la estructura familiar y roles establecidos en una comunidad sin hombres jóvenes.
A.S.P.E.N. Clinical Guidelines
Authors: Wales Paul W. , Allen Nancy , Worthington Patricia , George Donald , Compher Charlene ,   the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition, Teitelbaum Daniel
Published: April 2014

Background: Children with severe intestinal failure and prolonged dependence on parenteral nutrition are susceptible to the development of parenteral nutrition–associated liver disease (PNALD). The purpose of this clinical guideline is to develop recommendations for the care of children with PN‐dependent intestinal failure that have the potential to prevent PNALD or improve its treatment. Method: A systematic review of the best available evidence to answer a series of questions regarding clinical management of children with intestinal failure receiving parenteral or enteral nutrition was undertaken and evaluated using concepts adopted from the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) Working Group. A consensus process was used to develop the clinical guideline recommendations prior to external and internal review and approval by the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition Board of Directors. Questions: (1) Is ethanol lock effective in preventing bloodstream infection and catheter removal in children at risk of PNALD? (2) What fat emulsion strategies can be used in pediatric patients with intestinal failure to reduce the risk of or treat PNALD? (3) Can enteral ursodeoxycholic acid improve the treatment of PNALD in pediatric patients with intestinal failure? (4) Are PNALD outcomes improved when patients are managed by a multidisciplinary intestinal rehabilitation team?
Predictors for Perioperative Outcomes following Total Laryngectomy: A University HealthSystem Consortium Discharge Database Study
Authors: Rutledge Jonathan W. , Spencer Horace , Moreno Mauricio A.
Published: April 2014

Objective

The University HealthSystem Consortium (UHC) database collects discharge information on patients treated at academic health centers throughout the United States. We sought to use this database to identify outcome predictors for patients undergoing total laryngectomy. A secondary end point was to assess the validity of the UHC's predictive risk mortality model in this cohort of patients.

Study Design

Retrospective review.

Setting

Academic medical centers (tertiary referral centers) and their affiliate hospitals in the United States.

Subjects and Methods

Using the UHC discharge database, we retrieved and analyzed data for 4648 patients undergoing total laryngectomy who were discharged between October 2007 and January 2011 from all of the member institutions. Demographics, comorbidities, institutional data, and outcomes were retrieved.

Results

The length of stay and overall costs were significantly higher among female patients (P <. 0001), while age was a predictor of intensive care unit stay (P =. 014). The overall complication rate was higher among Asians (P =. 019) and in patients with anemia and diabetes compared with other comorbidities. The average institutional case load was 1.92 cases/mo; we found an inverse correlation (R = −0.47) between the institutional case load and length of stay (P <. 0001). The UHC admit mortality risk estimator was found to be an accurate predictor not only of mortality (P <. 0002) but also of intensive care unit admission and complication rate (P <. 0001).

Conclusion

This study provides an overview of laryngectomy outcomes in a contemporary cohort of patients treated at academic health centers. UHC admit mortality risk is an excellent outcome predictor and a valuable tool for risk stratification in these patients.
Governing public nuisance: Collaboration and conflict regarding the presence of homeless people in public spaces of Montreal
Authors: Baillergeau Evelyne
Published: April 2014

Exclusionary policing has been a strong, enduring trend for responding to the presence of marginalised groups in public spaces of Western cities – at times so dominant that it overshadows the existence of alternative rationalities such as public health and social justice. Are such alternatives simply powerless? Are they mere auxiliaries of exclusive strategies? In Montreal, public order, public health and social justice have been embodied by a variety of stakeholders and strategies, thereby offering the chance to explore the intercourse between the three rationalities in a situated way. While public health and social justice have long supported each other, relationships with public order have often presented conflict. The case of Montreal, however, also reflects some shifts towards balanced collaboration under certain circumstances that will be scrutinised.
The efficacy of singing in foreign-language learning
Authors: Good Arla J. , Russo Frank A. , Sullivan Jennifer
Published: April 2014

This study extends the popular notion that memory for text can be supported by song to foreign-language learning. Singing can be intrinsically motivating, attention focusing, and simply enjoyable for learners of all ages. The melodic and rhythmic context of song enhances recall of native text; however, there is limited evidence that these benefits extend to foreign text. In this study, Spanish-speaking Ecuadorian children learned a novel English passage for 2 weeks. Children in a sung condition learned the passage as a song and children in the spoken condition learned the passage as an oral poem. Children were tested on their ability to recall the passage verbatim, pronounce English vowel sounds, and translate target terms from English to Spanish. As predicted, children in the sung condition outperformed children in the spoken condition in all three domains. The song advantage persevered after a 6-month delay. Findings have important implications for foreign language instruction.
The hidden morale of the 2005 French and 2011 English riots
Authors: Sutterlüty Ferdinand
Published: April 2014

This essay reconstructs the normative core of the recent European riots, when young rebels reacted to the disregard for their civic claims to equal treatment. Referring to the available data and facts, the essay uses the example of the two biggest riots in contemporary French and British history to show that prevailing analyses only grasp certain aspects of these events: these riots were primarily neither ‘race riots’, ‘issueless riots’ nor ‘riots of defective consumers’. Nourished in particular by experiences with the police and the school system in the urban districts from which the rioters recruited, rage was directed against the symbols and embodiments of a state that has failed to live up to its promise of equality. It is the everyday undermining of the principle of their equality as citizens and the physically experienced violation of minimum constitutional standards that best explain the motivations of those participating in the riots.
Evaluating the Significance of Delaying Intravenous Lipid Therapy During the First Week of Hospitalization in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Arrazcaeta Janet , Lemon Stephen
Published: April 2014

Background: The American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (A.S.P.E.N.) and the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) published guidelines in 2009 recommending against the use of intravenous lipids for parenteral nutrition (PN) within the first week of hospitalization in critically ill patients. This grade D recommendation is controversial as it is based on the results of 2 studies that evaluated approximately 100 patients and did not evaluate glycemic control. The purpose of this study was to evaluate outcomes associated with the receipt of lipids within the first week in the intensive care unit (ICU) compared with withholding lipids. Methods: This retrospective study included critically ill adult patients who received PN at a large, academic medical center. This study examined the incidence of new infections with receipt of early lipids (n = 66) compared with withholding lipids in the first 7 days (n = 29). Secondary outcomes included mortality, hyperglycemia, ICU length of stay (LOS), and total LOS. Results: There was no difference between the early lipids and late lipids groups in the incidence of new infections after the initiation of PN (40.9% vs 55.2%, P = .264). Additionally, there was no difference between groups for any of the secondary outcomes. Conclusion: Withholding lipids within the first 7 days of hospitalization in the ICU was not associated with a significant reduction in infections, ICU or total LOS, or mortality. A multicenter, randomized, controlled trial is needed to further evaluate the effects of lipid administration in the critically ill.