bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pleomorphic Adenomas of the Parapharyngeal Space
Authors: Akın İstemihan , Karagöz Tuğba , Mutlu Murad , Şahan Mehmet , Önder Evrim
Published: July 2014

Background.Parapharyngeal space is one of potential facial planes for neoplasms and infections and represents less than 1% of all head and neck tumours. Occurrence of the pleomorphic adenoma in the parapharyngeal space is a rarity.Case Presentation.Here, three giant pleomorphic adenomas of different sizes occupying the parapharyngeal space in three patients are reported. Extensive preoperative diagnostic workup was done in order to verify the nature and size of the tumour and the proximity to the large vessels. Review of the literature, clinical features, pathology, radiological findings, and treatment of these tumours are discussed.Conclusion.The excision of the tumor through submandibular transcervical approach, without cutting the mandible, turned out to be a safe and radical approach in all three cases.
The Effects of Rape Residue Mulching on Net Global Warming Potential and Greenhouse Gas Intensity from No-Tillage Paddy Fields
Authors: Zhang Zhi-Sheng , Cao Cou-Gui , Guo Li-Jin , Li Cheng-Fang
Published: July 2014

A field experiment was conducted to provide a complete greenhouse gas (GHG) accounting for global warming potential (GWP), net GWP, and greenhouse gas intensity (GHGI) from no-tillage (NT) paddy fields with different amounts of oilseed rape residue mulch (0, 3000, 4000, and 6000 kg dry matter (DM) ha−1) during a rice-growing season after 3 years of oilseed rape-rice cultivation. Residue mulching treatments showed significantly more organic carbon (C) density for the 0–20 cm soil layer at harvesting than no residue treatment. During a rice-growing season, residue mulching treatments sequestered significantly more organic C from 687 kg C ha−1 season−1to 1654 kg C ha−1 season−1than no residue treatment. Residue mulching significantly increased emissions of CO2and N2O but decreased CH4emissions. Residue mulching treatments significantly increased GWP by 9–30% but significantly decreased net GWP by 33–71% and GHGI by 35–72% relative to no residue treatment. These results suggest that agricultural economic viability and GHG mitigation can be achieved simultaneously by residue mulching on NT paddy fields in central China.
Apocynin, a Low Molecular Oral Treatment for Neurodegenerative Disease
Authors: ‘t Hart Bert A. , Copray Sjef , Philippens Ingrid
Published: July 2014

Accumulating evidence suggests that inflammatory mediators secreted by activated resident or infiltrated innate immune cells have a significant impact on the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. This may imply that patients affected by a neurodegenerative disease may benefit from treatment with selective inhibitors of innate immune activity. Here we review the therapeutic potential of apocynin, an essentially nontoxic phenolic compound isolated from the medicinal plantJatropha multifida. Apocynin is a selective inhibitor of the phagocyte NADPH oxidase Nox2 that can be applied orally and is remarkably effective at low dose.
The 2-Pebbling Property of the Middle Graph of Fan Graphs
Authors: Ye Yongsheng , Liu Fang , Shi Caixia
Published: July 2014

A pebbling move on a graphGconsists of taking two pebbles off one vertex and placing one pebble on an adjacent vertex. The pebbling number of a connected graphG, denoted byf(G), is the leastnsuch that any distribution ofnpebbles onGallows one pebble to be moved to any specified but arbitrary vertex by a sequence of pebbling moves. This paper determines the pebbling numbers and the 2-pebbling property of the middle graph of fan graphs.
Intuitionistic Trapezoidal Fuzzy Multiple Criteria Group Decision Making Method Based on Binary Relation
Authors: Zhang Liyuan , Li Tao , Xu Xuanhua
Published: July 2014

The aim of this paper is to develop a methodology for intuitionistic trapezoidal fuzzy multiple criteria group decision making problems based on binary relation. Firstly, the similarity measure between two vectors based on binary relation is defined, which can be utilized to aggregate preference information. Some desirable properties of the similarity measure based on fuzzy binary relation are also studied. Then, a methodology for fuzzy multiple criteria group decision making is proposed, in which the criteria values are in the terms of intuitionistic trapezoidal fuzzy numbers (ITFNs). Simple and exact formulas are also proposed to determine the vector of the aggregation and group set. According to the weighted expected values of group set, it is easy to rank the alternatives and select the best one. Finally, we apply the proposed method and the Cosine similarity measure method to a numerical example; the numerical results show that our method is effective and practical.
Global Appearance Applied to Visual Map Building and Path Estimation Using Multiscale Analysis
Authors: Amorós Francisco , Payá Luis , Reinoso Oscar , Mayol-Cuevas Walterio , Calway Andrew
Published: July 2014

In this work we present a topological map building and localization system for mobile robots based on global appearance of visual information. We include a comparison and analysis of global‐appearance techniques applied to wide‐angle scenes in retrieval tasks. Next, we define multiscale analysis, which permits improving the association between images and extracting topological distances. Then, a topological map‐building algorithm is proposed. At first, the algorithm has information only of some isolated positions of the navigation area in the form of nodes. Each node is composed of a collection of images that covers the complete field of view from a certain position. The algorithm solves the node retrieval and estimates their spatial arrangement. With these aims, it uses the visual information captured along some routes that cover the navigation area. As a result, the algorithm builds a graph that reflects the distribution and adjacency relations between nodes (map). After the map building, we also propose a route path estimation system. This algorithm takes advantage of the multiscale analysis. The accuracy in the pose estimation is not reduced to the nodes locations but also to intermediate positions between them. The algorithms have been tested using two different databases captured in real indoor environments under dynamic conditions.
Hopf Bifurcation Analysis in a New Chaotic System with Chaos Entanglement Function
Authors: Jiangang Zhang , Yandong Chu , Wenju Du , Yingxiang Chang , Xinlei An
Published: July 2014

A new approach to generate chaotic phenomenon, called chaos entanglement, is introduced in this paper. The basic principle is to entangle two or multiple stable linear subsystems by entanglement functions to form an artificial chaotic system such that each of them evolves in a chaotic manner. The Hopf bifurcation of a new chaotic system with chaos entanglement function is studied. More precisely, we study the stability and bifurcations of equilibrium in the new chaotic system. Besides, we controlled the system to any fixed point to eliminate the chaotic vibration by means of sliding mode method. And the numerical simulations were presented to confirm the effectiveness of the controller.
On the Genus of the Zero-Divisor Graph of Zn
Authors: Su Huadong , Li Pailing
Published: July 2014

Let R be a commutative ring with identity. The zero-divisor graph of R, denoted Γ(R), is the simple graph whose vertices are the nonzero zero-divisors of R, and two distinct vertices x and y are linked by an edge if and only if xy=0. The genus of a simple graph G is the smallest integer g such that G can be embedded into an orientable surface Sg. In this paper, we determine that the genus of the zero-divisor graph of Zn, the ring of integers modulo n, is two or three.
Implementation of Incident Learning in the Safety and Quality Management of Radiotherapy: The Primary Experience in a New Established Program with Advanced Technology
Authors: Yang Ruijie , Wang Junjie , Zhang Xile , Sun Haitao , Gao Yang , Liu Lu , Lin Lei
Published: July 2014

Objective. To explore the implementation of incident learning for quality management of radiotherapy in a new established radiotherapy program.Materials and Methods. With reference to the consensus recommendations by American Association of Physicist in Medicine, an incident learning system was specifically established for reporting, investigating, and learning of individual incidents. The incidents that occurred in external beam radiotherapy from February, 2012, to February, 2014, were reported.Results. A total of 28 near misses and 5 incidents were reported. Among them, 5 originated in imaging for planning, 25 in planning, and 1 in plan transfer, commissioning, and delivery, respectively. One near miss/incident was classified as wrong patient, 7 wrong sites, 6 wrong laterality, and 5 wrong dose. Five reported incidents were all classified as grade 1/2 of dosimetric severity, 1 as grade 0, and the other 4 as grade 1 of medical severity. For the causes/contributory factors, negligence, policy not followed, and inadequate training contributed to 19, 15, and 12 near misses/incidents, respectively. The average incident rate per 100 patients treated was 0.4.Conclusion. Effective implementation of incident learning can reduce the occurrence of near misses/incidents and enhance the culture of safety.
The Application of Time‐Delay‐Dependent H∞ Control in the Transmission Effect of Monetary Policy on Real Estate Market
Authors: Guo Haifeng , Qian Yu , Wang Bo , Qiu Yi
Published: July 2014

This paper uses a time‐delay‐dependent H∞ control model to analyze the transmission effect of monetary policy on the real estate market. We establish a theoretical framework between monetary policy and real estate market based on the three channels, that is, interest rate channel, monetary supply channel, and credit channel. Then we construct a basic model using H∞ control method. By analyzing the effect of the time‐delay characteristics of monetary policy on the real estate market, we introduce time variables and propose a time‐delay‐dependent H∞ control model. We test the robustness of the model using the Chinese data of the monetary policy and the real estate market and prove that this model can be well employed in the reality.
The Role of Inflammation in the Pathogenesis of Macular Edema Secondary to Retinal Vascular Diseases
Authors: Ascaso Francisco J. , Huerva Valentín , Grzybowski Andrzej
Published: July 2014

Macular edema (ME) is a nonspecific sign of numerous retinal vascular diseases. This paper is an updated overview about the role of inflammatory processes in the genesis of both diabetic macular edema (DME) and ME secondary to retinal vein occlusion (RVO). We focus on the inflammatory mediators implicated, the effect of the different intravitreal therapies, the recruitment of leukocytes mediated by adhesion molecules, and the role of retinal Müller glial (RMG) cells.
Exact Solutions of the Space Time Fractional Symmetric Regularized Long Wave Equation Using Different Methods
Authors: Güner Özkan , Eser Dursun
Published: July 2014

We apply the functional variable method, exp-function method, and(G′/G)-expansion method to establish the exact solutions of the nonlinear fractional partial differential equation (NLFPDE) in the sense of the modified Riemann-Liouville derivative. As a result, some new exact solutions for them are obtained. The results show that these methods are very effective and powerful mathematical tools for solving nonlinear fractional equations arising in mathematical physics. As a result, these methods can also be applied to other nonlinear fractional differential equations.
Constructive Analysis for Least Squares Regression with GeneralizedK-Norm Regularization
Authors: Wang Cheng , Nie Weilin
Published: July 2014

We introduce a constructive approach for the least squares algorithms with generalizedK-norm regularization. Different from the previous studies, a stepping-stone function is constructed with some adjustable parameters in error decomposition. It makes the analysis flexible and may be extended to other algorithms. Based on projection technique for sample error and spectral theorem for integral operator in regularization error, we finally derive a learning rate.
Uranium Leaching from Contaminated Soil Utilizing Rhamnolipid, EDTA, and Citric Acid
Authors: Asselin Sara , Ingram Jani C.
Published: July 2014

Biosurfactants have recently gained attention as “green” agents that can be used to enhance the remediation of heavy metals and some organic matter in contaminated soils. The overall objective of this paper was to investigate rhamnolipid, a microbial produced biosurfactant, and its ability to leach uranium present in contaminated soil from an abandoned mine site. Soil samples were collected from two locations in northern Arizona: Cameron (site of open pit mining) and Leupp (control—no mining). The approach taken was to first determine the total uranium content in each soil using a hydrofluoric acid digestion, then comparing the amount of metal removed by rhamnolipid to other chelating agents EDTA and citric acid, and finally determining the amount of soluble metal in the soil matrix using a sequential extraction. Results suggested a complex system for metal removal from soil utilizing rhamnolipid. It was determined that rhamnolipid at a concentration of 150 μM was as effective as EDTA but not as effective as citric acid for the removal of soluble uranium. However, the rhamnolipid was only slightly better at removing uranium from the mining soil compared to a purified water control. Overall, this study demonstrated that rhamnolipid ability to remove uranium from contaminated soil is comparable to EDTA and to a lesser extent citric acid, but, for the soils investigated, it is not significantly better than a simple water wash.
A Cuckoo Search Algorithm for Multimodal Optimization
Authors: Cuevas Erik , Reyna-Orta Adolfo
Published: July 2014

Interest in multimodal optimization is expanding rapidly, since many practical engineering problems demand the localization of multiple optima within a search space. On the other hand, the cuckoo search (CS) algorithm is a simple and effective global optimization algorithm which can not be directly applied to solve multimodal optimization problems. This paper proposes a new multimodal optimization algorithm called the multimodal cuckoo search (MCS). Under MCS, the original CS is enhanced with multimodal capacities by means of (1) the incorporation of a memory mechanism to efficiently register potential local optima according to their fitness value and the distance to other potential solutions, (2) the modification of the original CS individual selection strategy to accelerate the detection process of new local minima, and (3) the inclusion of a depuration procedure to cyclically eliminate duplicated memory elements. The performance of the proposed approach is compared to several state-of-the-art multimodal optimization algorithms considering a benchmark suite of fourteen multimodal problems. Experimental results indicate that the proposed strategy is capable of providing better and even a more consistent performance over existing well-known multimodal algorithms for the majority of test problems yet avoiding any serious computational deterioration.
A Value and Ambiguity-Based Ranking Method of Trapezoidal Intuitionistic Fuzzy Numbers and Application to Decision Making
Authors: Zeng Xiang-tian , Li Deng-feng , Yu Gao-feng
Published: July 2014

The aim of this paper is to develop a method for ranking trapezoidal intuitionistic fuzzy numbers (TrIFNs) in the process of decision making in the intuitionistic fuzzy environment. Firstly, the concept of TrIFNs is introduced. Arithmetic operations and cut sets over TrIFNs are investigated. Then, the values and ambiguities of the membership degree and the nonmembership degree for TrIFNs are defined as well as the value-index and ambiguity-index. Finally, a value and ambiguity-based ranking method is developed and applied to solve multiattribute decision making problems in which the ratings of alternatives on attributes are expressed using TrIFNs. A numerical example is examined to demonstrate the implementation process and applicability of the method proposed in this paper. Furthermore, comparison analysis of the proposed method is conducted to show its advantages over other similar methods.
Quad-Rotor Helicopter Autonomous Navigation Based on Vanishing Point Algorithm
Authors: Wang Jialiang , Zhao Hai , Bi Yuanguo , Chen Xingchi , Zeng Ruofan , Shao Shiliang
Published: July 2014

Quad-rotor helicopter is becoming popular increasingly as they can well implement many flight missions in more challenging environments, with lower risk of damaging itself and its surroundings. They are employed in many applications, from military operations to civilian tasks. Quad-rotor helicopter autonomous navigation based on the vanishing point fast estimation (VPFE) algorithm using clustering principle is implemented in this paper. For images collected by the camera of quad-rotor helicopter, the system executes the process of preprocessing of image, deleting noise interference, edge extracting using Canny operator, and extracting straight lines by randomized hough transformation (RHT) method. Then system obtains the position of vanishing point and regards it as destination point and finally controls the autonomous navigation of the quad-rotor helicopter by continuous modification according to the calculated navigation error. The experimental results show that the quad-rotor helicopter can implement the destination navigation well in the indoor environment.
Influence of 1D and 2D Carbon Fillers and Their Functionalisation on Crystallisation and Thermomechanical Properties of Injection Moulded Nylon 6,6 Nanocomposites
Authors: Navarro-Pardo Fabiola , Martínez-Hernández Ana L. , Castaño Victor M. , Rivera-Armenta José L. , Medellín-Rodríguez Francisco J. , Martínez-Barrera Gonzalo , Velasco-Santos Carlos
Published: July 2014

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and graphene were used as reinforcing fillers in nylon 6,6 in order to obtain nanocomposites by using an injection moulding process. The two differently structured nanofillers were used in their pristine or reduced form, after oxidation treatment and after amino functionalisation. Three low nanofiller contents were employed. Crystallisation behaviour and perfection of nylon 6,6 crystals were determined by differential scanning calorimetry and wide angle X‐ray diffraction, respectively. Crystallinity was slightly enhanced in most samples as the content of the nanofillers was increased. The dimensionality of the materials was found to provide different interfaces and therefore different features in the nylon 6,6 crystal growth resulting in improved crystal perfection. Dynamical, mechanical analysis showed the maximum increases provided by the two nanostructures correspond to the addition of 0.1 wt.% amino functionalised CNTs, enhancing in 30% the storage modulus and the incorporation of 0.5 wt.% of graphene oxide caused an increase of 44% in this property. The latter also provided better thermal stability when compared to pure nylon 6,6 under inert conditions. The superior properties of graphene nanocomposites were attributed to the larger surface area of the two‐dimensional graphene compared to the one‐dimensional CNTs.
A Paradoxical Triad: Scapulothoracic Dissociation with Clavicle and Humeral Shaft Fractures
Authors: Albert Sandeep , Jayashankar Viswanath , Gouse Mohamad
Published: July 2014

Scapulothoracic dissociation involves varying degree of discontinuity of the upper extremity from its truncal attachment. An eighteen-year-old male presented to the accident and emergency department following a motor vehicle accident where he was hit by a four wheeler while riding a two wheeler. He had tenderness and deformity over the left clavicle and the left humerus. He was unable to perform active wrist and finger dorsiflexion. A CT subsequently revealed a grade 2 splenic laceration. The splenic laceration was treated conservatively. As his general condition improved, he was gradually weaned off the ventilator and his left upper limb neurology was reassessed. He had isolated radial nerve palsy with an otherwise intact brachial plexus. He underwent internal fixation of the clavicle and the humerus. At 4 months after injury the EMG/NCV report showed signs of renervation of the radial nerve, and the fracture progressed to an uneventful union. This prior unreported triad of scapulothoracic dissociation with ipsilateral clavicular and humeral fractures may represent a parody. An apparent increase in the severity of skeletal injury was associated with a paradoxical decrease in the severity of neurovascular injury. We report this case to create awareness among orthopedic surgeons and emergency physicians about the clinical presentation of such injuries.
Unicameral Bone Cyst in the Proximal Humerus with Secondary Infection in an 18-Month-Old Foal
Authors: Fugazzola Maria C. , Klaus Christoph , Lischer Christoph
Published: July 2014

An 18-month-old warmblood filly was 4/5 lame on the front right limb at referral and showed severe swelling of the right shoulder region and pain during manipulation of the shoulder region. Radiography revealed a roundish 5 × 7 cm radiolucent area with defined borders within the greater tubercle and the presence of a fracture of the lateral tubercle associated with the cyst. Cellular blood count was 27,500 WBC/μL and serum biochemical analyses revealed fibrinogen of 855 mg/dL. The fractured bone was removed surgically; the cyst debrided and filled with autologous cancellous bone graft. Three and five weeks after surgery the filly was reoperated on because of an osseous sequestrum and a periostal defect on the distal dorsolateral aspect of the pastern of the right hind limb and a septic synovitis of the DFTS of the left hind limb. Fifteen month after surgery the filly was not lame and was introduced to training. Unicameral bone cysts (UBC) are well described lesions, often associated to pathologic fracture in the proximal humerus of children but, until present, no scientific report exists of UBC in the foal. The prompt surgical management had a favorable outcome.
The Coral Reefs Optimization Algorithm: A Novel Metaheuristic for Efficiently Solving Optimization Problems
Authors: Salcedo-Sanz S. , Del Ser J. , Landa-Torres I. , Gil-López S. , Portilla-Figueras J. A.
Published: July 2014

This paper presents a novel bioinspired algorithm to tackle complex optimization problems: the coral reefs optimization (CRO) algorithm. The CRO algorithm artificially simulates a coral reef, where different corals (namely, solutions to the optimization problem considered) grow and reproduce in coral colonies, fighting by choking out other corals for space in the reef. This fight for space, along with the specific characteristics of the corals' reproduction, produces a robust metaheuristic algorithm shown to be powerful for solving hard optimization problems. In this research the CRO algorithm is tested in several continuous and discrete benchmark problems, as well as in practical application scenarios (i.e., optimum mobile network deployment and off-shore wind farm design). The obtained results confirm the excellent performance of the proposed algorithm and open line of research for further application of the algorithm to real-world problems.
Molecular Pathways: Myeloid Complicity in Cancer
Authors: Stromnes Ingunn M. , Greenberg Philip D. , Hingorani Sunil R.
Published: July 2014

Cancer-induced inflammation results in accumulation of myeloid cells. These myeloid cells include progenitors and progeny of monocytes, granulocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells. It has become increasingly evident that tumor-dependent factors can condition myeloid cells toward an immunosuppressive and protumorigenic phenotype. Thus, myeloid cells are not simply bystanders in malignancy or barometers of disease burden. Reflecting their dynamic and plastic nature, myeloid cells manifest a continuum of cellular differentiation and are intimately involved at all stages of neoplastic progression. They can promote tumorigenesis through both immune-dependent and -independent mechanisms and can dictate response to therapies. A greater understanding of the inherent plasticity and relationships among myeloid subsets is needed to inform therapeutic targeting. New clinical trials are being designed to modulate the activities of myeloid cells in cancer, which may be essential to maximize the efficacy of both conventional cytotoxic and immune-based therapies for solid tumors. Clin Cancer Res; 20(20); 5157–70. ©2014 AACR.
Sobre el concepto de ley permisiva y su función argumentativa en el § 2 de la Rechtslehre
Authors: Tomassini Fiorella
Published: July 2014

Este trabajo se propone analizar por qué Kant señala en el § 2 de la Rechtslehre que el postulado jurídico de la razón práctica puede denominarse una ley permisiva, considerando que luego de esa mención el autor no ofrece ninguna definición ulterior ni desarrollo teórico de ese concepto. El modo en que se interpreta la función argumentativa del concepto jurídico de lex permissiva en el desarrollo de la doctrina de la propiedad, que Kant presenta en la sección “El derecho privado” del texto que nos ocupa, tiene consecuencias fundamentales en la comprensión de la relación entre la propiedad y el Estado en el pensamiento político de Kant.
O niilismo schopenhaueriano: uma introdução
Authors: Salviano Jarlee
Published: July 2014

Neste texto procuramos mostrar como se pode analisar o problema do niilismo na filosofia de Schopenhauer sem recorrer à interpretação nietzschiana – tendo em vista o peso e a importância dada por esta interpretação a este conceito dentro da filosofia e levando em conta principalmente que o termo não aparece em nenhum momento da obra schopehaueriana – tendo como pano de fundo a recepção do idealismo transcendental kantiano na Alemanha do final do século XVIII e início do XIX.
Toll-Like Receptor 4 Regulates Platelet Function and Contributes to Coagulation Abnormality and Organ Injury in Hemorrhagic Shock and Resuscitation
Authors: Ding Ning , Chen Guoqiang , Hoffman Rosemary , Loughran Patricia A. , Sodhi Chhinder P. , Hackam David J. , Billiar Timothy R. , Neal Matthew D.
Published: July 2014

Background—

Growing evidence indicates that the presence of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) on platelets is a key regulator of platelet number and function. Platelets exposed to TLR4 agonists may serve to activate other cells such as neutrophils and endothelial cells in sepsis and other inflammatory conditions. The functional significance of platelet TLR4 in hemorrhagic shock (HS), however, remains unexplored.

Methods and Results—

Using thromboelastography and platelet aggregometry, we demonstrate that platelet function is impaired in a mouse model of HS with resuscitation. Further analysis using cellular-specific TLR4 deletion in mice revealed that platelet TLR4 is essential for platelet activation and function in HS with resuscitation and that platelet TLR4 regulates the development of coagulopathy after hemorrhage and resuscitation. Transfusion of TLR4-negative platelets into mice resulted in protection from coagulopathy and restored platelet function. Additionally, platelet-specific TLR4 knockout mice were protected from lung and liver injury and exhibited a marked reduction in systemic inflammation as measured by circulating interleukin-6 after HS with resuscitation.

Conclusions—

We demonstrate for the first time that platelet TLR4 is an essential mediator of the inflammatory response as well as platelet activation and function in HS and resuscitation.
Urinary Potassium Excretion and Risk of Developing Hypertension
Authors: Kieneker Lyanne M. , Gansevoort Ron T. , Mukamal Kenneth J. , de Boer Rudolf A. , Navis Gerjan , Bakker Stephan J.L. , Joosten Michel M.
Published: July 2014

Previous prospective cohort studies on the association between potassium intake and risk of hypertension have almost exclusively relied on self-reported dietary data, whereas repeated 24-hour urine excretions, as estimate of dietary uptake, may provide a more objective and quantitative estimate of this association. Risk of hypertension (defined as blood pressure ≥140/90 mm Hg or initiation of blood pressure–lowering drugs) was prospectively studied in 5511 normotensive subjects aged 28 to 75 years not using blood pressure–lowering drugs at baseline of the Prevention of Renal and Vascular End-Stage Disease (PREVEND) study. Potassium excretion was measured in two 24-hour urine specimens at baseline (1997–1998) and midway during follow-up (2001–2003). Baseline median potassium excretion was 70 mmol/24 h (interquartile range, 57–85 mmol/24 h), which corresponds to a dietary potassium intake of ≈91 mmol/24 h. During a median follow-up of 7.6 years (interquartile range, 5.0–9.3 years), 1172 subjects developed hypertension. The lowest sex-specific tertile of potassium excretion (men: <68 mmol/24 h; women: <58 mmol/24 h) had an increased risk of hypertension after multivariable adjustment (hazard ratio, 1.20; 95% confidence interval, 1.05–1.37), compared with the upper 2 tertiles (
P
nonlinearity
=0.008). The proportion of hypertension attributable to low potassium excretion was 6.2% (95% confidence interval, 1.7%–10.9%). No association was found between the sodium to potassium excretion ratio and risk of hypertension after multivariable adjustment. Low urinary potassium excretion was associated with an increased risk of developing hypertension. Dietary strategies to increase potassium intake to the recommended level of 90 mmol/d may have the potential to reduce the incidence of hypertension.
Defensive responses of gopher tortoises (Gopherus polyphemus) are influenced by risk assessment and level of habituation to humans
Authors: Bateman P.W. , Fleming P.A. , Jones B.C. , Rothermel B.B.
Published: July 2014

Species that are either sessile or too slow to resort to flight may instead rely on defences such as natural armour or protective structures, but they will still face the same economic decisions as do more mobile species about when to re-emerge from cover. The gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) is a species of conservation significance due to its important role as an ecosystem engineer and habitat loss due to human activities. In this study, we examined escape responses of gopher tortoises approached by a human observer. Our data supported our prediction that the level of disturbance would influence escape responses, with animals that were picked and handled taking longer to emerge and move off than animals that had simply been approached or approached and walked around. We also found that tortoises took half as long to extend their heads at our study site, where tortoises exposed to a high level of benign human activity over a long period, compared with an adjacent site where there had been minimal human interaction with tortoises. These data suggest that gopher tortoises adjust their escape responses according to the level of risk they are exposed to. Over the long-term, this plasticity in escape responses can potentially result in some level of habituation to human presence.
Individual calling behaviour and movements of North Atlantic minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata)
Authors: Risch Denise , Siebert Ursula , Van Parijs Sofie M.
Published: July 2014

Information on individual calling behaviour and source levels are important for understanding acoustically mediated social interactions of marine mammals, for which visual observations are difficult to obtain. Our study, conducted in the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary (SBNMS), located in the Gulf of Maine, USA, used passive acoustic arrays to track North Atlantic minke whales and assess the sound production behaviour of individuals. A total of 18 minke whales were acoustically tracked in this study. Individual calling rates were variable, with a median intercall interval (ICI) of 60.3 s. Average source levels (SLrms) for minke whales pulse trains ranged between 164 and 168 dB re 1 μPa, resulting in a minimum detection range of 0.4–10.2 km for these calls in this urban, coastal environment. All tracked animals were actively swimming at a speed of 5.0 ± 1.2 km/h, which matches swimming speeds of migrating minke whales from other areas and confirms SBNMS as part of the migration route of this species in the Western North Atlantic. Tracked minke whales produced 7 discrete call types belonging to 3 main categories, yet no individual produced all call types. Instead, minke whales produced 2 multisyllabic call sequences (A and B) by combining 3–4 different call types in a non-random order. While 7 of the tracked individuals produced calling pattern A, 10 whales used calling pattern B, and only 1 animal combined call types differently. Animals producing different call sequences were in acoustic range of one another on several occasions, suggesting they may use these sequences for mediating social interactions. The fact that the same calling patterns were shared by several individuals suggests that these patterns may contain information related to sex, age or behavioural context.
The Meaning of Evolution and the Evolution of Meaning
Authors: den Hollander Jaap
Published: July 2014

A major lesson to be learned from narrativist philosophy of history since Danto is that history and science differ in the organization and presentation of knowledge rather than in their subject-matter. This insight is most often seen as a decisive argument in favour of the ‘literary’ or ‘cultural’ character of history. However, if their subject-matter does not create an insurmountable barrier between history and science, the insight leaves room, too, for a ‘historical’ approach to issues ordinarily believed to belong to the domain of ‘science’. A case in point is the subject of evolution. Thus the leading evolutionary biologist Ernst Mayr considers the nature of evolution to be historical rather than scientific. This might invite historians to overcome their fear of social Darwinism and to apply their own (narrativist) tools for organizing knowledge to evolutionary theory. This essay attempts to show that Niklas Luhmann’s theory of social evolution does just this by satisfying the criteria of historical representation as defended by narrativist philosophy of history. Luhmann’s system concept will be interpreted as a ‘colligatory concept’ in the sense meant by William Walsh. Furthermore, Luhmann’s idea that social systems are ultimately based on meaning processing will be shown to agree with the fundamental role assigned to meaning in Ankersmit’s recent work on historical representation.
Contingency, Nature and Hermeneutics in History of Science
Authors: Bouterse Jeroen
Published: July 2014

When, as historians, we want to explain developments in the history of natural science, how are we to do justice to the role of the natural world – the thing scientists investigate – in our explanations? The idea that the structure of the natural world renders the development of science inevitable seems to be inadequate, but so does the idea that we should explain the history of science without any reference to nature, as if what scientists study made no difference at all to what they believe. Is ‘nature’ even a feasible category, however? To what extent is it a problem that in referring to the result of scientific development in our explanation of scientific development, we are assuming the authority of science? Does this undermine the possibility of critical and independent historiography? This article deals with several possible solutions to these problems, and outlines an alternative to rationalism as well as to the Strong Programme in the Sociology of Scientific Knowledge and Latour’s Actor-Network Theory.
Two new species of Mesoplecia (Insecta: Diptera: Protopleciidae) from the late Middle Jurassic of China
Authors: LIN XIUQIN , SHIH CHUNGKUN , REN DONG
Published: July 2014

Two new species of Mesoplecia Rohdendorf, 1938, M. plena sp. nov. and M. fastigata sp. nov., are described from the late Middle Jurassic Jiulongshan Formation of Daohugou, Inner Mongolia, China. Based on the emended generic diagnosis of Mesoplecia by Zhang in 2007, these two new species are assigned to Mesoplecia by a combination of the following five characters: (1) Head small; (2) Vein bRs not more than twice as long as dRs; (3) M1, M2 at least 5 times as long as dM1+2; (4) bM1+2 longer than dM1+2; and (5) Legs with coxae and femora thick. In addition, a key to Mesoplecia is provided.
West Virginia University Pediatric Stroke Registry
Authors: Pergami Paola , Thayapararajah Sathees Waran , Seemaladinne Nirupama
Published: July 2014

Purpose. To develop an institutional pediatric stroke database at West Virginia University to support the classification and description of clinical and radiographic characteristics of pediatric stroke in children living in rural areas. Methods. A custom-made database was developed using Microsoft Access to include specific query forms for data retrieval. Data were collected retrospectively from electronic medical record of pediatric patients with ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke, with emphasis on clinical presentation, risk factors, and neuroimaging studies between 2000 and 2012. Results. In the children group, vasculitis and hypercoagulable disorders were identified less frequently than reported. In the neonate group, only extremely sick, symptomatic patents were acutely diagnosed with stroke. Conclusion. Patients with the most common risk factors for stroke (cardiac disease) were overrepresented. This suggests that in children receiving medical attention in rural areas less common risk factors for stroke might not be identified, increasing the risk recurrence. Increased index of suspicion is needed about pediatric stroke in rural areas, and early transfer to a tertiary care center for identification of risk factors is mandatory.
Longevity of Posterior Composite Restorations
Authors: Opdam N.J.M. , van de Sande F.H. , Bronkhorst E. , Cenci M.S. , Bottenberg P. , Pallesen U. , Gaengler P. , Lindberg A. , Huysmans M.C.D.N.J.M. , van Dijken J.W.
Published: July 2014

The aim of this meta-analysis, based on individual participant data from several studies, was to investigate the influence of patient-, materials-, and tooth-related variables on the survival of posterior resin composite restorations. Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, we conducted a search resulting in 12 longitudinal studies of direct posterior resin composite restorations with at least 5 years’ follow-up. Original datasets were still available, including placement/failure/censoring of restorations, restored surfaces, materials used, reasons for clinical failure, and caries-risk status. A database including all restorations was constructed, and a multivariate Cox regression method was used to analyze variables of interest [patient (age; gender; caries-risk status), jaw (upper; lower), number of restored surfaces, resin composite and adhesive materials, and use of glass-ionomer cement as base/liner (present or absent)]. The hazard ratios with respective 95% confidence intervals were determined, and annual failure rates were calculated for subgroups. Of all restorations, 2,816 (2,585 Class II and 231 Class I) were included in the analysis, of which 569 failed during the observation period. Main reasons for failure were caries and fracture. The regression analyses showed a significantly higher risk of failure for restorations in high-caries-risk individuals and those with a higher number of restored surfaces.
Collective Versus Individual Gain of “Natural Sprawl”
Authors: Bishu Sebawit G.
Published: July 2014

In response to the “natural sprawl” article by Okulicz-Kozaryn, I present a critical reflection on the assumption of studying the city in relation to individual and not collective gains. Okulicz-Kozaryn’s article on “natural sprawl” presents us with a reasonable argument on the benefits of natural sprawl on an individual’s happiness. This response re-visits some of the critical limitations of urban sprawl that are missing from Okulicz-Kozaryn’s “natural sprawl” argument. This response holds that an emphasis on “natural sprawl” and expansion of suburban areas, although it may produce increased happiness to the few, can also result in stratification along social and economic lines.
Professional Success and Gender in Family Medicine
Authors: Delgado Ana , Saletti-Cuesta Lorena , López-Fernández Luis Andrés , Toro-Cárdenas Silvia , Luna del Castillo Juan de Dios
Published: July 2014

Two components of professional success have been defined: objective career success (OCS) and subjective career success (SCS). Despite the increasing number of women practicing medicine, gender inequalities persist. The objectives of this descriptive, cross-sectional, and multicenter study were (a) to construct and validate OCS and SCS scales, (b) to determine the relationships between OCS and SCS and between each scale and professional/family characteristics, and (c) to compare these associations between male and female family physicians (FPs). The study sample comprised 250 female and 250 male FPs from urban health centers in Andalusia (Spain). Data were gathered over 6 months on gender, age, care load, professional/family variables, and family–work balance, using a self-administered questionnaire. OSC and SCS scales were examined by using exploratory factorial analysis and Cronbach’s α, and scores were compared by gender-stratified bivariate and multiple regression analyses. Intraclass correlation coefficients were calculated using a multilevel analysis. The response rate was 73.6%. We identified three OCS factors and two SCS factors. Lower scores were obtained by female versus male FPs in the OCS dimensions, but there were no gender differences in either SCS dimension.
Ideology critique: the challenge for media studies
Authors: Downey John , Titley Gavan , Toynbee Jason
Published: July 2014

Taking our bearings from Stuart Hall’s essay from 1982, ‘The rediscovery of “ideology”: return of the repressed in media studies’, we argue in this discussion piece for the need to pick up the tools of ideology critique once again. Quite simply, the contemporary moment where accelerating inequality is masked by blame of the poor and of migrants demands it. The case is made first through a critique of ideological responses to the economic crisis after 2008. Then in the final section we examine advocacy of ‘social mobility’ in the public sphere, an ideological project if ever there was one.
Why do some governments resort to ‘creative accounting’ but not others? Fiscal governance in the Brazilian federation
Authors: Melo Marcus André , Pereira Carlos , Souza Saulo
Published: July 2014

This paper investigates the determinants of compliance with fiscal rules. Using information from 27 Brazilian state governments, the paper shows that the level of political competition and the degree of political autonomy of the fiscal watchdogs explain the extent of creative accounting in the Brazilian federation. Despite hard budget constraints imposed by the much-acclaimed Fiscal Responsibility Law, state governors retain the strategic ability to undertake fiscal window dressing in response to fiscal stress. As fiscal watchdogs are not immune to the influence of the legislature and state governor, however, this paper demonstrates that their level of independence and autonomy is associated with the degree of creative accounting. In addition, we show that political competition encourages non-compliance through various causal mechanisms. Building effective and autonomous institutions is a precondition for deterring fiscal misconduct but this solution is ultimately a by-product of a political equilibrium resulting from self-enforced behavior of politicians.
Transoral Robotic versus Open Surgical Approaches to Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma by Human Papillomavirus Status
Authors: Ford Samuel E. , Brandwein‐Gensler Margaret , Carroll William R. , Rosenthal Eben L. , Magnuson J. Scott
Published: July 2014

Objectives

(1) Investigate oncologic survival outcomes and (2) analyze the impact of human papillomavirus status on prognosis in patients with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma treated with transoral robotic versus open surgery.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Tertiary care referral center, University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital.

Subjects

One hundred thirty total (65 per treatment arm) with primary oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC).

Methods

Patients treated for primary oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma with either transoral robotic (TORS) or open surgery plus standard of care adjuvant therapy between October 2004 and March 2012 were matched based on TNM staging before a retrospective chart review was performed. Carcinoma tissue was stained both prospectively and retrospectively with CINtec p16‐INK4a kits for surrogate human papillomavirus typing. Recurrence‐free survival was used to evaluate the impact of human papillomavirus tumor status and method of surgical intervention on prognosis.

Results

As a whole, patients treated with transoral robotic surgery survived more frequently (94%, 91%, 89% at 1, 2, 3 years, respectively) than those treated with open surgery (85%, 75%, 73% at 1, 2, 3 years, correspondingly) (P =. 035). The subgroup of patients with human papillomavirus‐negative malignancies treated with open surgery survived without recurrence less frequently at 1, 2, and 3 year rates of 58%, 25%, 25%, respectively (P <. 01).

Conclusion

These retrospective data suggest that oncologic outcomes are not being sacrificed when patients with OPSCC are treated with TORS instead of open surgery regardless of tumor human papillomavirus immunohistochemical staining.
Moral and Philosophical Problems of Long-Term Imprisonment
Authors: Liebling Alison
Published: July 2014

Considerable policy and scholarly interest in the treatment of long-term prisoners in conditions of high security existed throughout the 1970s to 1990s, often precipitated by major calamitous events. It has been a major theme of official discourse on the treatment of long-term prisoners since then that ‘a viable life’ and the preservation of dignity are important principles to adhere to in policy and practice. This morality is under threat.
Response to Alison Liebling’s presentation
Authors: Gelsthorpe Loraine
Published: July 2014

Notwithstanding worrying implications of prisons which are seemingly without moral purpose in terms of people being attracted to the radicalism and relational dimensions of new faiths, there are positive signs of changes and hope in prisons. The question becomes about how we can best foster and protect that which money can’t buy in prisons.
The Ethics of Punishment and the Ethics of Restoration: A Critical Analysis
Authors: Danaher William J.
Published: July 2014

Taking its cue from Augustine’s hesitancy to punish, this article develops an account of punishment as an exercise in Christian subjectivity, understanding by the latter term ‘self-knowledge’ and ‘being subject to another’s control.’ Framed in terms of the sacrament of reconciliation and mediated through the Late Medieval Ecclesiastical Courts, the explicit contours of this Christian subjectivity gradually eroded as secular practices and theories (retribution, rehabilitation, deterrence, and restorative) developed during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. In the process, the rehabilitative ethos that this subjectivity upheld was lost also. Retrieving it is essential for understanding contemporary punishment from a Christian perspective.