bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do Women with Pain and Bleeding in Early Pregnancy Require a Vaginal Speculum Examination as Part of Their Assessment?
Authors: Bora Shabana A. , Kirk Emma , Bourne Tom
Published: November 2013

Aims: To investigate whether a vaginal speculum examination (VSE) prior to a transvaginal scan (TVS) alters the diagnosis or management of women who complain of bleeding in early pregnancy. Methods: A prospective study. Women were asked to describe their bleeding as heavy, moderate or light and to consent to VSE prior to TVS. TVS was performed to obtain a final diagnosis of pregnancy outcome. Results: 221 consecutive women were included in the study. In 14.5% (n = 32) complaining of heavy bleeding, blood was seen in all but two VSE and 84% (n = 27) had a miscarriage diagnosed by TVS. Products of conception were removed in 18.8% (n = 6), but this did not alter the subsequent immediate management of any cases. 65.2% (n = 144) of women complained of light bleeding, blood was seen on VSE in 53% (n = 77). Of these women, 25% (n = 19) of those where blood was seen had a miscarriage, compared to 6% (n = 4) of women where blood was not seen. A cervical ectropion was visualised in 11.7% (n = 26) and 2.3% (n = 5) had a cervical polyp. No other clinically significant pathology was detected. Conclusion: The amount of bleeding reported by women in early pregnancy relates well with VSE findings. Performing a VSE did not alter the subsequent management of these patients. This study demonstrates that routine objective assessment of blood by a clinician performing VSE prior to a TVS is unnecessary.
A Case Report of Atypical Scrotal Leiomyoma
Authors: Li Shu-Lin , Han Jian-De
Published: November 2013

Scrotal leiomyoma is a benign tumor derived from the scrotal dartos muscle; it is rare in clinical findings. The cause of the disease is not yet clear. Here, we present the case of a patient with no typical clinical features, but with some typical pathological changes. A middle-aged male patient saw a doctor for paroxysmal itching and burning of the scrotum. The physical examination revealed 3 × 5-cm2, ill-defined, pink plaques, an uneven surface, and basal infiltration with pigmentation defects in the center. Pathology results showed dermal spindle cells in nodular hyperplasia. The nucleus was round at both ends, a perinuclear halo could be seen, and staining was positive for actin and negative for S100. Therefore, the diagnosis of scrotal myoma was made.
Myocardial Strain Analysis by 2-Dimensional Speckle Tracking Echocardiography Improves Diagnostics of Coronary Artery Stenosis in Stable Angina Pectoris
Authors: Biering-Sørensen Tor , Hoffmann Soren , Mogelvang Rasmus , Zeeberg Iversen Allan , Galatius Søren , Fritz-Hansen Thomas , Bech Jan , Jensen Jan Skov
Published: November 2013

Background—

Two-dimensional strain echocardiography detects early signs of left ventricular dysfunction; however, it is unknown whether myocardial strain analysis at rest in patients with suspected stable angina pectoris predicts the presence of coronary artery disease (CAD).

Methods and Results—

In total, 296 consecutive patients with clinically suspected stable angina pectoris, no previous cardiac history, and normal left ventricular ejection fraction were included. All patients were examined by 2-dimensional strain echocardiography, exercise ECG, and coronary angiography. Two-dimensional strain echocardiography was performed in the 3 apical projections. Peak regional longitudinal systolic strain was measured in 18 myocardial sites and averaged to provide global longitudinal peak systolic strain. Duke score, including ST-segment depression, chest pain, and exercise capacity, was used as the outcome of the exercise test. Patients with an area stenosis ≥70% in ≥1 epicardial coronary artery were categorized as having significant CAD (n=107). Global longitudinal peak systolic strain was significantly lower in patients with CAD compared with patients without (17.1±2.5% versus 18.8±2.6%;
P
<0.001) and remained an independent predictor of CAD after multivariable adjustment for baseline data, exercise test, and conventional echocardiography (odds ratio, 1.25 [
P
=0.016] per 1% decrease). Area under receiver operating characteristic curve for exercise test and global longitudinal peak systolic strain in combination was significantly higher than that for exercise test alone (0.84 versus 0.78;
P
=0.007). Furthermore, impaired regional longitudinal systolic strain identifies which coronary artery is stenotic.

Conclusions—

In patients with suspected stable angina pectoris, global longitudinal peak systolic strain assessed at rest is an independent predictor of significant CAD and significantly improves the diagnostic performance of exercise test. Furthermore, 2-dimensional strain echocardiography seems capable of identifying high-risk patients.
Lower Hospital Volume Is Associated With Higher In-Hospital Mortality in Patients Undergoing Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for ST-Segment–Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Kontos Michael C. , Wang Yongfei , Chaudhry Sarwat I. , Vetrovec George W. , Curtis Jeptha , Messenger John
Published: November 2013

Background—

Current guidelines recommend >36 primary percutaneous coronary interventions (PCIs) per hospital per year. Whether these standards remain valid when routine coronary stenting and newer pharmacological agents are used is unclear.

Methods and Results—

We analyzed patients who underwent primary PCI from July 2006 through June 2009 included in the CathPCI Registry. Hospitals were separated into 3 groups: low (≤36 primary PCIs/y, current guideline recommendation), intermediate (>36–60 primary PCIs/y), and high volume (>60 primary PCIs/y). In-hospital mortality and door-to-balloon time were examined for each group. A total of 87 324 patient visits for 86 044 patients from 738 hospitals were included. There were 278 low- (38%), 236 (32%) intermediate-, and 224 (30%) high-volume hospitals. The majority of patients with primary PCI (54%) were treated at high-volume hospitals, with 15% at low-volume hospitals. Unadjusted mortality was significantly higher in low-volume hospitals compared with high-volume hospitals (5.6% versus 4.8%;
P
<0.001), which was maintained after multivariate adjustment (1.20; 95% confidence interval, 1.08–1.33;
P
=0.001). In contrast, mortality was not significantly different between intermediate-volume and high-volume hospitals (4.8% versus 4.8%; adjusted odds ratio, 1.02; 95% confidence interval, 0.94–1.11;
P
=0.61). Door-to-balloon times were significantly shorter in high-volume hospitals compared with low-volume hospitals (median, 72 minutes; interquartile range, [53–91] versus 77 [57–100] minutes;
P
<0.0001).

Conclusions—

Higher annual hospital volume of primary PCI continues to be associated with lower mortality, with higher mortality in hospitals performing ≤36 primary PCIs/y.
Swarm Art
Authors: Greenfield Gary , Machado Penousal
Published: November 2013

Curators Gary Greenfield and Penousal Machado introduce the works of the artists featured in the Swarm Art Gallery, who explore, experiment with and engage with the behavioral principles underlying swarms. Greenfield and Machado's introduction provides a tour of some of the historical highlights in the development of “swarm art” and reveals the broad range of methods that appear within the genre.
Zdeněk Sýkora and François Morellet: Parallels and Complementarity
Authors: Andres Jan
Published: November 2013

This paper compares and examines in mathematical terms the work of Zdeněk Sýkora and François Morellet devoted to structures and lines. Using concrete examples, the paper demonstrates that, despite many apparent similarities, the artists' approaches are considerably different. A farewell letter by François Morellet to Zdeněk Sýkora, who died on 12 July 2011, is included.
Visualizing the News: Mutant Barcodes and Geographies of Conflict
Authors: Corby Tom
Published: November 2013

This paper outlines emerging research concerned with visualizing online news archives. The authors make a distinction between the use of visualization for data journalism and the evolution of reporting on current affairs over extended periods of time.
A taxonomic revision of the tribe Pleuroweisieae (Pottiaceae, Bryophyta) in South America
Authors: Cano Maria J. , Jiménez Juan A.
Published: November 2013

The genera Anoectangium, Gymnostomum, Hymenostylium, and Molendoa, included in the tribe Pleuroweisieae, are studied in South America. After a thorough revision of both herbarium material and our own recent collections from the area, we recognize eight species among these genera. In Hymenostylium, H. recurvirostrum and H. aurantiacum are accepted, the latter newly reported for the territory. Hymenostylium contextum and H. kunzeanum are placed in the synonymy of H. recurvirostrum and Weissia stillicidiorum and Hydrogonium taylorii of H. aurantiacum. In Gymnostomum, only G. calcareum is recognized in South America. Gymnostomum tenerrimum is considered a synonym of G. calcareum and G. aeruginosum is tentatively excluded from the area. In Molendoa, M. sendtneriana and M. peruviana comb. nov. are recognized. Anoectangium calidum, Molendoa andina, M. subobtusifolia, and Trichostomum glaucoviride are proposed as synonyms of M. sendtneriana and Anoectangium herzogii, A. platyphyllum, A. lechlerianum and Triquetrella cucullata of M. peruviana. Molendoa fuegiana and M. guentheri are excluded from Molendoa and considered synonyms of Didymodon australasiae. In Anoectangium, A. aestivum, A. euchloron and A. stracheyanum are accepted. Anoectangium brachyphyllum and Zygodon tenellus are treated as synonyms of A. euchloron, A. pflanzii of A. aestivum and A. lechlerianum var. laetior and Zygodon linearis of A. stracheyanum. Anoectangium herzogii, A. calidum, and A. lechlerianum var. limbatulum are excluded from Anoectangium. The first is considered conspecific with Molendoa peruviana and the rest with M. sendtneriana. The genus Tuerckheimia represented by T. guatemalensis is excluded from South America. Lectotypes for twenty two names (Anoectangium euchloron f. elata, A. herzogii, A. lechlerianum, A. lechlerianum var. laetior, A. lechlerianum var. limbatulum, A. patagonicum, A. pflanzii, A. sendtnerianum, A. sordidum, A. tenerrimum, Gymnostomum longirostre, G. recurvirostrum, Hymenostylium contextum, H. longopulvinatum, Molendoa fuegiana, Trichostomum glaucoviride, Triquetrella cucullata, Weissia stillicidiorum, W. venezuelensis, Zygodon excelsus, Z. linearis and Z. tenellus) are proposed. A key, descriptions, illustrations and distribution maps are provided for each species.
Central American ants of the genus Megalomyrmex Forel (Hymenoptera: Formicidae): six new species and keys to workers and males
Authors: BOUDINOT BRENDON E. , SUMNICHT THEODORE P. , ADAMS RACHELLE M. M.
Published: November 2013

Megalomyrmex Forel is a distinctive lineage of Neotropical ants, some of which are specialized parasites or predators of the fungus-growing ants Attini. Here we review and key the Central American fauna. Six new species are described from both female castes: M. brandaoi sp. n., M. fungiraptor sp. n., M. longinoi sp. n., M. milenae sp. n., M. megadrifti sp. n. and M. osadrifti sp. n. A worker-based key to all Central American species is presented, and all species are illustrated. Megalomyrmex drifti Kempf is redescribed and the first descriptions of queens for M. miri Brandão and M. foreli Emery are provided. New biological information, several new geographic records, and a discussion of the species-group schema of Brandão (1990) are presented. The male sex of Megalomyrmex is diagnosed at the genus-level and keyed to species for the Central American fauna, where known. The male of each species treated in the key is diagnosed, described, or redescribed. Males are known for fourteen out of twenty total Central American Megalomyrmex species. A distinct but unassociated male is described and keyed (M. male 01). The males of M. miri Brandão and M. wettereri Brandão are described for the first time, and the distinctness of these two species is confirmed. One potential synapomorphy of Megalomyrmex present in males and workers is the presence of a carina which posteriorly delimits the basalmost region of the petiolar dorsum.
Neotropical Ablabesmyia Johannsen (Diptera: Chironomidae, Tanypodinae)–Part I
Authors: DE OLIVEIRA CAROLINE SILVA NEUBERN , DA SILVA MÁRIO ANTONIO NAVARRO , GESSNER ALAÍDE APARECIDA FONSECA
Published: November 2013

This is a series of three manuscripts about the genus Ablabesmyia. In the first new species are described, three species are re-examined and keys to males, pupae and larvae of known neotropical species are provided and an emended generic diagnosis of Ablabesmyia is given. The second manuscript will analyze the molecular data of Neotropical species and the third one will check, through a phylogenetic analysis, the truth of subgenera. In this study, twenty-four new species of Ablabesmyia Johannsen are described and figured: A. arquata, A. cauame, A. commata, A. communiba, A. cordeiroi, A, depaulai, A. diversa, A. ducke, A. fazzari, A. fusariae, A. gessnerae, A. gigas, A. jaquirana, A. laurindoi, A. manauara, A. martha, A. novema, A. parannulata, A. parareissi, A. pinhoi, A. rafaeli, A. separata, A. strixinoae and A. suiamissu. We re-examined A. cinctipes (Johannsen), A. infumata (Edwards) and A. metica Roback. The species were collected in Brazil, in lentic systems. Keys to males, pupae and larvae of known neotropical species of the genus Ablabesmyia are provided and an emended generic diagnosis of Ablabesmyia is given.
The American genus Dactuliothrips (Thysanoptera: Aeolothripidae) with three new species
Authors: PEREYRA VERONICA , DE BORBÓN CARLOS MANUEL
Published: November 2013

Three new species of Dactuliothrips Moulton are described, two from Mendoza, Argentina and one from Southern California, USA: D. prosopis sp.n. from Prosopis alpataco (Fabaceae), D. monttea sp.n. from Monttea aphylla (Scrophulariaceae), and D. ephedra sp.n. from Ephedra sp. (Ephedraceae). A revised diagnosis and an illustrated identification key to the nine recognized species of Dactuliothrips are also provided. Pictures and notes about the host plants for the species from Argentina are included, together with new records for D. kaszabi from Argentina.
On the Nazeris fauna of Guangxi, China. II. The species of Daming Shan (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Paederinae)
Authors: HU JIA-YAO , LI LI-ZHEN , CHEN YAN
Published: November 2013

Two new species of Nazeris Fauvel collected from Daming Shan, Guangxi Province, are described and illustrated: N. damingshanus Hu & Li, sp. n., N. longilobus Hu & Li, sp. n. An identification key to the Nazeris species from Guangxi is provided.
A new species of Laccobius Erichson, 1837 from China
(Coleoptera: Hydrophilidae)
Authors: JIA FENGLONG , SONG KEQING , Gentili Elio
Published: November 2013

A new species of the water scavenger beetle, Laccobius (Cyclolaccobius) martini sp. nov., is described from Shiwandashan, southern Guangxi Automomous Region, China. Digital photographs of several useful taxonomic features are provided. Additionally, the identification key to Laccobius (Cyclolaccobius) of China and neighbouring countries is updated to include this new species.
Two new Xestia Hübner, 1818 species from China (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae)
Authors: GYULAI P. , RONKAY L. , SALDAITIS A.
Published: November 2013

Beginning with the fundamental works of Boursin (1954, 1963, 1964), Old World exploration of the genus Xestia (s. l.) Hübner, 1818 traditionally focused on reddish-brown species from the generally monsoon, high mountains Himalayan region (Hacker (1990), Yoshimoto (1995), Hreblay & Ronkay (1997, 1998, 1999), Hreblay et al., (1998) and Kononenko et al., (2012)). More recent investigation of the southeast and eastern Tibetan plateau in the drier high altitude of Sichuan and Yunnan provinces resulted in the discovery of seven new species of Xestia (s. l.) described by Gyulai at al.(2011). Two additional new species from this region collected by Irene and Alessandro Floriani and the third author are described herein.
Contribution to the knowledge of the genus Dicronychus (Coleoptera: Elateridae) from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Authors: DHAFER HATHAL M. AL , PLATIA GIUSEPPE
Published: November 2013

Examination of specimens of Dicronychus Brullé in the King Saud University Museum of Arthropods, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia revealed the presence of two new species, D. latifae n. sp. and D. bushrae n. sp. In addition, the descriptions of D. talhouki Platia and Schimmel and D. brancuccii Platia and Schimmel are augmented after examination of both type material and recently collected specimens from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
New species and new records of deepwater munidid squat lobsters from north-western Australia: Onconida, Bathymunida, Crosnierita, Plesionida and Torbenella
Authors: AHYONG SHANE T. , TAYLOR JOANNE , MCCALLUM ANNA W.
Published: November 2013

Seven species of Munididae are reported from the continental margin of north-western Australia. Three species are new to science: Crosnierita adela sp. nov., Onconida ariel sp. nov. and Plesionida aurelia sp. nov., each presently known only from Western Australia. Four species are reported for the first time from Australian waters, Bathymunida balssi Van Dam, 1838, Bathymunida dissimilis Baba & de Saint Laurent, 1996, Crosnierita yante (Macpherson, 1994) and Torbenella orbis (Baba, 2005). Keys to the world species of the genera represented are provided.
A new species of Scutopalus (Acari: Cunaxidae: Cunaxoidinae) from Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil with a key to world species
Authors: ROCHA MATHEUS DOS SANTOS , SKVARLA MICHAEL JOSEPH , FERLA NOELI JUAREZ
Published: November 2013

Scutopalus tomentosus sp. nov. is described and illustrated from Plantago tomentosa Lam. (Plantaginaceae) in a vineyard agroecosystem at Dois Lajeados county, State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. This is the first species of this genus described from the Americas. A key to world species is included.
A new record of the giant freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium spinipes (Schenkel, 1902) (Crustacea: Decapoda: Palaemonidae) from Taiwan, with notes on its taxonomy
Authors: SHY JHY-YUN , WOWOR DAISY , NG PETER K. L.
Published: November 2013

The giant freshwater prawn Macrobrachium spinipes (Schenkel, 1902) is recorded from Taiwan for the first time and extends the distribution of the species to north of the Tropic of Cancer. The Taiwanese specimens differ slightly from material from Indonesian Papua in the density of the spination of the adult second pereipods, the relative length of the ridge of the posterior submedian plate of thoracite sternite 4, and the color of the carapace, abdomen and pleural condyles.
A new species of Sphenomorphus Fitzinger, 1843 (Squamata: Sauria: Scincidae) from Vietnam
Authors: NGUYEN TRUONG QUANG , NGUYEN KHOI VU , VAN DEVENDER ROBERT WAYNE , BONKOWSKI MICHAEL , ZIEGLER THOMAS
Published: November 2013

A new forest skink species of the genus Sphenomorphus is described from Kon Tum Plateau, southern Central Vietnam. Sphenomorphus sheai sp. nov. is similar to the other montane skink species from the Indochina region, Lygosoma veunsaiensis, Scincella apraefrontalis, Sphenomorphus tetradactylus, and Sphenomorphus tridigitus, in having a small size and the absence of external ear openings. However, the new species is differentiated from aforementioned species and other members of Sphenomorphus from China and mainland Southeast Asia by a unique suite of morphological characters. The discovery of S. sheai brings the total species number of Sphenomorphus known from Vietnam to twelve.
Two new species of Metrocoris Mayr (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Gerridae) from India
Authors: JEHAMALAR E. EYARIN , CHANDRA KAILASH
Published: November 2013

Metrocoris morsei sp. nov., and Metrocoris shillongensis sp. nov., are described from India and compared with known congeners. Metrocoris morsei sp. nov. from Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve (GNBR), Nicobar Islands, cannot be assigned to any of the known species groups of Metrocoris, so it forms the Metrocoris morsei-group. M. shillongensis sp. nov. from Shillong, Meghalaya, belongs to the M. obscurus-species group and is the second species in this group. The distribution maps of these two new species are given.
A new species of Robertsella Guinot, 1969 (Crustacea: Brachyura: Panopeidae) from the southwestern Atlantic
Authors: TAVARES MARCOS , GOUVÊA ARIANE
Published: November 2013

A new species of deep-water brachyuran crab, Robertsella meridionalis, from Brazil is described and illustrated. The new species can be easily separated from its northwestern Atlantic counterpart, R. mystica Guinot, 1969, by a suite of carapace and appendage characters. Robertsella mystica is redescribed and illustrated. Putative sound-producing structures in the genus Robertsella are first described.
A new species of Sicoderus Vanin from Bolivia (Coleoptera:
Curculionidae: Curculioninae: Otidocephalini)
Authors: VANIN SERGIO A. , DE MEDEIROS BRUNO A.S.
Published: November 2013

Sicoderus robini sp. nov. (type locality: Bolivia, Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Buena Vista, El Cairo) is described and illustrated. The new species is assigned to the Sicoderus appendiculatus species group, compared with similar species of the group and with the two other species of Sicoderus that occur in Bolivia. The previously published key for species identification of the S. appendiculatus group is updated to include the new species.
A new, prairie-restricted species of Filatima Busck (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) from Illinois
Authors: HARRISON TERRY L. , BERENBAUM MAY R.
Published: November 2013

Filatima revisensis (Gelechiidae) is described from individuals collected as larvae feeding inside shelters constructed of silked-together leaflets of leadplant, Amorpha canescens (Fabaceae). Filatima revisensis is bivoltine; overwintering occurs in the larval stage. Because this insect is restricted to tallgrass prairie, it is likely to be of concern to conservation biologists. In the interest of naming this moth and clarifying its identity, a description is provided, and diagnoses are given to differentiate it from F. ornatifimbriella, F. xanthuris, F. adamsi, and F. occidua, all of which are externally similar to F. revisensis.
On the taxonomic status of Phlebotomus breviductus Barretto, 1950 (Diptera: Psychodidae: Phlebotominae)
Authors: DE ANDRADE ANDREY J. , SHIMABUKURO PALOMA H.F. , GALATI EUNICE A.B.
Published: November 2013

The taxonomic status of Phlebotomus breviductus Barretto, 1950 was evaluated based on the morphological and morphometric analysis of the male holotype described from Fazenda Jerusalém, located in the municipality of Alegre, Espírito Santo state, Brazil. After measuring, drawing and photographing the holotype, we concluded that the head and wing of this specimen belong to Trichopygomyia sp., but that the thorax and abdomen belong to a different species, Nyssomyia umbratilis, with an anomalous gonostylus having five spines. The holotype slide consists of parts of specimens representing two different species, thus P. breviductus is not a valid species.
Alairhynchus, a new name for the genus Gigantorhynchus Sapelnikov & Malygina 1977 (Brachiopoda: Camarotoechioidea) preoccupied by Gigantorhynchus Hamann 1892 (Vermes: Acanthocephala)
Authors: DOWELD ALEXANDER B.
Published: November 2013

The genus Gigantorhynchus (type species = G. dubius Sapelnikov & Malygina, 1977, by original designation) was established by Sapelnikov & Malygina (1977: 62) for a distinctive fossil brachiopod from Eastern Alai (Southern Tien Shan, Kyrgyzstan) which subsequently served as type of a subfamily (Gigantorhynchinae Savage 1996). However, the name Gigantorhynchus was preoccupied by a living worm genus published by Hamann (1892: 196) (Vermes: Acanthocephala: Gigantorhynchida: Gigantorhynchidae Hamann 1892). The worm Gigantorhynchus is well recognized in modern zoology, serving as type of a distinct order and family (Gigantorhynchida and Gigantorhynchidae Hamann 1892, respectively).
On the Correspondence between Mean Forecast Errors and Climate Errors in CMIP5 Models
Authors: Ma H.-Y. , Xie S. , Klein S. A. , Williams K. D. , Boyle J. S. , Bony S. , Douville H. , Fermepin S. , Medeiros B. , Tyteca S. , Watanabe M. , Williamson D.
Published: November 2013

The present study examines the correspondence between short- and long-term systematic errors in five atmospheric models by comparing the 16 five-day hindcast ensembles from the Transpose Atmospheric Model Intercomparison Project II (Transpose-AMIP II) for July–August 2009 (short term) to the climate simulations from phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5) and AMIP for the June–August mean conditions of the years of 1979–2008 (long term). Because the short-term hindcasts were conducted with identical climate models used in the CMIP5/AMIP simulations, one can diagnose over what time scale systematic errors in these climate simulations develop, thus yielding insights into their origin through a seamless modeling approach.

The analysis suggests that most systematic errors of precipitation, clouds, and radiation processes in the long-term climate runs are present by day 5 in ensemble average hindcasts in all models. Errors typically saturate after few days of hindcasts with amplitudes comparable to the climate errors, and the impacts of initial conditions on the simulated ensemble mean errors are relatively small. This robust bias correspondence suggests that these systematic errors across different models likely are initiated by model parameterizations since the atmospheric large-scale states remain close to observations in the first 2–3 days. However, biases associated with model physics can have impacts on the large-scale states by day 5, such as zonal winds, 2-m temperature, and sea level pressure, and the analysis further indicates a good correspondence between short- and long-term biases for these large-scale states. Therefore, improving individual model parameterizations in the hindcast mode could lead to the improvement of most climate models in simulating their climate mean state and potentially their future projections.
Measured and Parameterized Energy Fluxes Estimated for Atlantic Transects of R/V Polarstern
Authors: Bumke Karl , Schlundt Michael , Kalisch John , Macke Andreas , Kleta Henry
Published: November 2013

Sensible and latent heat fluxes were estimated from turbulence measurements gathered during several Atlantic Ocean transects of the research vessel (R/V) Polarstern. The inertial dissipation method was used to analyze the data. Resulting bulk transfer coefficients were then applied to the data from the ship’s meteorological system to get continuous time series of the heat fluxes. Combined with the measured downward solar and longwave radiation fluxes it allows for an estimate of the total energy budget at the air–sea interface. Comparing these parameterized energy fluxes to those based on the Coupled Ocean–Atmosphere Response Experiment, version 3 (COARE3.0), bulk flux algorithm shows very strong agreement.
Salivary testosterone measurement by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry in adult males and females
Authors: Keevil BG , MacDonald P , Macdowall W , Lee DM , Wu FCW ,   the NATSAL Team
Published: November 2013

Background

Salivary testosterone (Sal-T) may be a useful surrogate of serum free testosterone. The study aims were to use a novel liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) assay to determine whether Sal-T concentrations accurately reflect Sal-T concentrations in both sexes and to investigate practical aspects of sample collection.

Methods

Saliva and serum samples were collected in 104 male and 91 female subjects. A more sensitive LC-MS/MS assay was developed to enable Sal-T quantitation in the low concentrations found in females. Saliva (200 µL) was extracted with 1 mL of methyl- tert-butyl ether following the addition of D5-testosterone. Quantitation was performed using a Waters TQ-S mass spectrometer.

Results

The assay achieved a lower limit of quantification of 5 pmol/L, sufficiently sensitive to measure testosterone in female saliva. Sal-T showed a diurnal variation but samples taken at weekly and monthly intervals showed no significant differences. Sal-T was stable at ambient temperature for up to 5 days, after freeze-thawing and 3 years frozen storage. Reference intervals for Sal-T were 93–378 pmol/L in males and 5–46 pmol/L in females. Sal-T correlated significantly with serum calculated free-T in males ( r = 0.71, P < 0.001) and in females ( r = 0.39, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

These results confirm that testosterone can be reliably and accurately measured by LC-MS/MS in both adult male and female saliva samples. These results lay the foundation for further exploration of the clinical application of Sal- T as a reliable alternative to serum testosterone in the diagnosis and management of androgen disorders and assessment of androgen status in clinical research.
Regulation in the Process of Building Capabilities
Authors: Perez-Aleman Paola
Published: November 2013

To understand how regulation influences competitiveness and upgrading processes, this article focuses on the organizational changes involved in “rewarding regulation.” Through a qualitative study of two clusters in the agrifood industry in Nicaragua, it analyzes two types of regulation and their interaction with small producers’ production organizations: food safety and environmental sustainability. The analysis shows that regulation plays a crucial role in fostering changes in organizational practices and routines. This occurs when local organizations build new knowledge and skills to upgrade products and production processes, while developing new connections among producers and between them to other private and public actors that support economic development. “Rewarding regulation” is part of a process of learning and creating networks that help build local know-how and generate supportive collective resources.
The Organizational Basis of Rewarding Regulation
Authors: Pires Roberto R. C.
Published: November 2013

Rewarding regulation involves pursuing the complex goal of bringing labor protection and firms’ economic performance together. A central element in achieving such goals refers to how regulatory bureaucracies operate. This paper examines the organizational structures, processes, and internal dynamics that allow regulatory bureaucracies to innovate and meet such developmental challenges. It reviews well-established interpretations about state bureaucracies that have emphasized either hierarchical structures and control processes or discretion and disperse individual behaviors. In addition, it suggests alternative analytical paths for combining flexibility and control by examining the relational processes and dynamics within bureaucracies. The analysis of the Brazilian Labor Inspectorate, based on qualitative data and extensive fieldwork, and of other empirical examples from the literature, indicates that internal tensions and conflicts instigate a process of technical vigilance between members of the same bureaucracy, inducing innovation and responsible uses of discretion.
State Impediments to Transit-Centered Planning in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, 1916–1928
Authors: Moore Karen W.
Published: November 2013

In 1916, a national planning expert strongly advised Milwaukee city and county planners to integrate electric railway transit into any comprehensive metropolitan plan. In that same year, a great proponent of publicly owned transit, socialist Daniel W. Hoan, became mayor of Milwaukee. Twelve years later—while Hoan was still mayor—a national engineering firm made the same recommendation. During the interim, however, it became apparent to city leaders, including Hoan, that they did not have either the legal or financial tools necessary to effectively implement any plan that involved altering and improving transit routes and service. Although Wisconsin adopted municipal “home rule” in 1924, the provision was in reality “too little too late” in that it did not grant cities authority to take over the privately owned for-profit transit companies holding monopolies over their streets. Nor was an option to establish a regional transit authority available until after World War II. This article explores the intersecting roles of state laws, the Wisconsin Railroad Commission, local elected leaders, and appointed planners in the ultimate—automobile-dependent—result.
Clinical and echocardiographic predicators of postoperative atrial fibrillation
Authors: Elawady Mohamed Ahmed , Bashandy Mohamed
Published: November 2013

Background

Postoperative atrial fibrillation is the most common arrhythmia after coronary artery bypass grafting, with a reported incidence of 10% to 60%. Preoperative clinical and echocardiographic data, especially the atrial electromechanical interval, predict postoperative atrial fibrillation in elective coronary artery bypass patients.

Methods

A prospective study evaluated preoperative clinical and echocardiographic data in 192 patients who underwent elective coronary artery bypass from 2010 to 2012.

Results

18 (9.37%) patients developed postoperative atrial fibrillation. Compared to patients without postoperative atrial fibrillation, these 18 had significantly longer intensive care unit and hospital stays, they were significantly older (58.62 ± 10.02 vs. 53.22 ± 8.23 years; p = 0.02), with a larger left atrial volume (83.39 ± 8.31 vs. 55.47 ± 8.37 cm3, p = 0.001), longer atrial electromechanical interval (133.67 ± 8.15 vs. 98.05 ± 6.71 ms p < 0.0001), and lower tissue Doppler imaging systolic velocity wave amplitude (6.6 ± 1 vs. 9.4 ± 2.2 cm·s−1; p = 0.001); they also had a higher prevalence of hypertension (61.11% vs. 38.5%; p = 0.04). Using 115 ms as the cutoff value of atrial electromechanical interval enabled us to detect patients who developed postoperative atrial fibrillation with 100% sensitivity, 77% specificity, 78% positive predictive value, and 100% negative predictive value.

Conclusion

Older hypertensive patients are at higher risk of developing postoperative atrial fibrillation. Preoperative measurement of atrial electromechanical interval by tissue Doppler echocardiography is a useful predictor of postoperative atrial fibrillation in coronary artery bypass patients.
Differential release kinetics of cardiac biomarkers in off-pump coronary bypass
Authors: Singh Satyajit , Kapoor Aditya , Agarwal Surendra Kumar , Pande Shantanu , Sinha Archana , Rai Himanshu , Kumar Sudeep , Tewari Satyendra , Garg Naveen , Majumdar Gauranga , Chandra Bipin , Goel Pravin K
Published: November 2013

Background

Differential release kinetics of the cardiac biomarkers (B-type natriuretic peptide, troponin I, and creatine kinase-MB) following off-pump coronary artery bypass are not well characterized.

Methods

Biomarker levels were assessed at 6, 24, 48 h, and 1 month preoperatively, in 80 patients who underwent off-pump coronary artery bypass.

Results

All biomarkers increased within 6 h of surgery. Peak B-type natriuretic peptide levels occurred at 24–48 h in 96% of patients, but only two-thirds had peak troponin I and creatine kinase-MB levels at this time, reflecting different release patterns. Levels of all biomarkers declined within 48 h, but 42% of patients still had B-type natriuretic peptide >100 pg·mL−1 at 1 month. Those with baseline B-type natriuretic peptide > 100 pg·mL−1 had a lower left ventricular ejection fraction (43.6% vs. 55.6%, p < 0.01) and longer inotropic (43.8 vs. 31.4 h, p = 0.03) and ventilator support (34 vs. 25.5 h, p = 0.04) than those with lower levels. B-type natriuretic peptide levels correlated positively with angiographic Syntax score ( p = 0.02) and negatively with left ventricular ejection fraction ( p < 0.001). Only baseline B-type natriuretic peptide predicted the durations of inotropic support ( p = 0.01) and ventilation ( p = 0.02). Postoperative B-type natriuretic peptide at 6, 24, and 48 h and delta B-type natriuretic peptide were significant predictors of mean ventilation time.

Conclusion

Even in patients undergoing off-pump surgery, there is significant natriuretic peptide and myocardial enzyme release. Only B-type natriuretic peptide levels had an association with postoperative variables.
A superannuated physicist’s attempts to master music theory: Resolving cognitive conflicts and a paradigm clash
Authors: Page-Shipp Roy , van Niekerk Caroline
Published: November 2013

A sexagenarian retired physicist (the first author) set out, with the assistance of members of a university music department, to acquire some insight into Western music theory. For a lifelong singer and seasoned autodidact, this appeared to be a not too formidable challenge, yet he experienced significant difficulty in penetrating the music theory paradigm. He discovered an entry point in the layout of black and white keys on the keyboard, which presented a “mental model” amenable to his physicist’s mindset. The experience could prove valuable in further exploration of the use of the keyboard layout in teaching music theory to students of all ages with little or no exposure to the piano or other keyboard instruments. The process also suggests new perspectives of familiar learning challenges for mature candidates.
Clinical Considerations for the Surgical Treatment of Pectoralis Major Muscle Ruptures Based on 60 Cases
Authors: de Castro Pochini Alberto , Andreoli Carlos Vicente , Belangero Paulo Santoro , Figueiredo Eduardo Antonio , Terra Bernardo Barcellos , Cohen Carina , Andrade Marilia dos Santos , Cohen Moises , Ejnisman Benno
Published: November 2013

Background:

Early recognition of the clinical signs of ruptures of the pectoralis major muscle (PMM) in athletes by orthopaedic surgeons, physical therapists, and physical trainers may prove to be critical for patient access to surgical treatment while the injury is still in the acute phase.

Hypothesis:

Total ruptures of the PMM may yield a better outcome with surgical treatment than with nonoperative treatment in athletes.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

A prospective study was performed on 60 patients with total ruptures of the PMM. The patients were followed from 1997 to 2012, with a physical examination every 6 months for the first 2 years and every 12 months thereafter. The patients’ mean age was 31.21 years, and the mean length of follow-up was 48.25 months. The surgical treatment methods included reinsertion of the tendon in 51% of the patients and nonoperative treatment in 49% of the patients. All of the patients were evaluated using the Bak criteria.

Results:

The bench-press exercise was associated with 80% of the PMM ruptures (48 patients). Forty-one of the patients with chronic ruptures were seen after 3 months (80%). The outcomes were poor in 9 patients from the nonoperative group (31%) and in 3 patients from the surgical group (9.7%); the outcomes were fair in 12 patients from the nonoperative group and in no patients from the surgical group. Excellent results were not observed in any patient from the nonoperative group and were observed in 21 patients from the surgical group (67.7%). The isokinetic evaluation at 60 deg/s showed a decrease in strength of 41.7% in the nonsurgical group and 14.3% for the surgical group, which was significant at P < .05.

Conclusion:

Total ruptures of the PMM exhibit better outcomes with surgical treatment than with nonoperative treatment based on the Bak criteria in athletes.
Lead enhances fluoride influence on apoptotic processes in the HepG2 liver cell line
Authors: Gutowska Izabela , Baranowska-Bosiacka Irena , Siwiec Ewa , Szczuko Małgorzata , Kolasa Agnieszka , Kondarewicz Anna , Rybicka Marta , Dunaj-Stańczyk Małgorzata , Wiernicki Ireneusz , Chlubek Dariusz , Stachowska Ewa
Published: November 2013

Chronic long-term exposure to high levels of fluoride leads to fluorosis, manifested by skeletal fluorosis and damage to internal organs, including kidneys, liver, parathyroid glands, and brain. Excess fluoride can also cause DNA damage, trigger apoptosis, and change cell cycle. The effect of fluoride may be exacerbated by lead (Pb), a potent inhibitor of many enzymes and a factor causing apoptosis, still present in the environment in excessive amounts. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the effects of sodium fluoride (NaF) and/or lead acetate (PbAc) on development of apoptosis, cell vitality, and proliferation in the liver cell line HepG2. We examined hepatocytes from the liver cell line HepG2, incubated for 48 h with NaF, PbAc, and their mixture (NaF + PbAc), and used for measuring apoptosis, index of proliferation, and vitality of cells. Incubation of the hepatocytes with NaF or PbAc increased apoptosis, more when fluoride and Pb were used simultaneously. Vitality of the cells depended on the compound used and its concentration. Proliferation slightly increased and then decreased in a high fluoride environment; it decreased significantly after addition of Pb in a dose-dependent manner. When used together, fluoride inhibited the decreasing effect of Pb on cell proliferation.
A sliding-mode controller for directional control of articulated heavy vehicles
Authors: Tabatabaei Oreh S Hamed , Kazemi Reza , Azadi Shahram
Published: November 2013

In order to improve the handling and stability of a tractor–semitrailer, a new sliding-mode controller is designed on the basis of a non-linear three-degree-of-freedom model of the vehicle. Three state variables, namely the tractor’s yaw rate, the tractor’s lateral velocity and the articulation angle, are controlled as the target responses using active steering. A new version of the desired articulation angle is proposed so that the rear end of the semitrailer unit is forced to follow the path of the fifth wheel if the proposed reference value is tracked. A 12-degree-of-freedom non-linear model of the articulated heavy vehicle validated by real test data is used to evaluate the control system. The comparative simulation results prove the significant effects of the proposed non-linear control method with respect to a previously designed linear controller on improving the handling and stability performance, especially under severe driving conditions.
Integrating intrinsic and global kinetics as a dual kinetic model for automotive catalysis
Authors: Stewart Jonathan , Douglas Roy , Goguet Alexandre
Published: November 2013

The majority of the kinetic models employed in catalytic after-treatment of exhaust emissions use a global kinetic approach owing to the simplicity because one expression can account for all the steps in a reaction. The major drawback of this approach is the limited predictive capabilities of the models. The intrinsic kinetic approach offers much more information about the processes occurring within the catalytic converter; however, it is significantly more complex and time consuming to develop. In the present work, a methodology which allows accessing a model that combines the simplicity of the global kinetic approach and the accuracy of the intrinsic kinetic approach is reported. To assess the performance of this new approach, the oxidation of carbon monoxide in the presence of nitric oxide as well as a driving cycle was investigated. The modelling of carbon monoxide oxidation with oxygen which utilised the intrinsic kinetic approach with the global kinetic approach was used for the carbon monoxide + nitric oxide reaction (and all remaining reactions for the driving cycle).The comparison of the model results for the dual intrinsic + global kinetic approach with the experimental data obtained for both the reactor and the driving cycle indicate that the dual approach is promising with results significantly better than those obtained with only the global kinetics approach.
Using Pivotal Response Training and Technology to Engage Preschoolers With Autism in Conversations
Authors: Stockall Nancy , Dennis Lindsay R.
Published: November 2013

It is well known that children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) demonstrate a significant delay in language development that impacts their ability to engage in robust conversations. In this article the authors discuss two specific elements of pivotal response training—motivation and self-initiations—for children with ASD. Specific research-based intervention strategies are addressed for teaching preschoolers with ASD to ask questions leading to social conversations. Additionally, the authors suggest ways that teachers can embed technology, specifically the use of iPad apps, to further support conversations.
Using the Good Behavior Game in an Inclusive Classroom
Authors: Lastrapes Renée E.
Published: November 2013

Students with emotional or behavioral disorders (EBD) are being included to a greater degree in the general education classroom. Due to the least restrictive environment mandate in the Individuals With Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004, more students with EBD are being taught in inclusive settings. As a result, general education teachers need a variety of behavior management techniques in their toolbox to effectively instruct all of their students. This adaptation of the Good Behavior Game is an interdependent group-contingency technique that helps manage classroom behavior and integrate students with EBD into the general education class. It can be used as a way for special and general educators to collaborate successfully in general education inclusive classrooms.
Living Witnesses to Social Change and Family Documents as Community Archive
Authors: Rieger Jon H.
Published: November 2013

This article describes a strategy for studying social change in a community too small and/or remote to generate a substantial corpus of local official records or to receive regular coverage by nearby and regional media. In communities of this size (generally less than 1,000 people), the record of change often resides mostly in the shared memories and family memorabilia of surviving community residents. I outline the kinds of materials and evidence that may be collected and the ways in which such materials can be utilized in the attempt to reconstruct the changes that have occurred in such a locality. My procedure posits that social change can be illuminated through the critical linkage between the experience of participants and temporally ordered community contexts and events. This research made especial use of the experience of a particular core family in the small town I studied. I follow their experience over the period from 1941 through the present. Drawing on photographs and interviews, I seek to connect the biographies of these and other residents to the broader course of community change. The problems and limitations of relying on selected key informants and salvaged materials are discussed. I argue that the accounts provided by community participants and the accumulated family memorabilia may serve as a proxy for more conventional community records in situations where that kind of evidence is sparse or nonexistent.