bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Liposarcoma of the Spermatic Cord: An Infrequent Pathology
Authors: Di Gregorio Marcelo , D’Hondt Lionel  , Lorge Francis  , Nollevaux Marie-Cécile
Published: January 2017

Objective: To describe a rare pathology, the liposarcoma of the spermatic cord (LSC), and discuss its diagnosis and treatment. Materials and Methods: We report a case of well-differentiated LSC in a 61-year-old man. The main complaint was painless enlargement in the right inguinoscrotal area that appeared 6 months prior to presentation. Ultrasonography showed a heterogeneous and hyperechogenic mass of the right spermatic cord that was highly suspicious of malignancy. Computed tomography confirmed a heterogeneous supratesticular mass. The mass was surgically removed. Results: Pathological examination showed a well-differentiated LSC. The patient did not receive any additional treatment. The follow-up did not present complications or further symptoms and, at present, the patient is in complete remission. Conclusion: LCSs are a very rare entity. The diagnosis is difficult and often mistaken with common scrotal swelling associated with a hernia, hydrocele, or other tumour. Treatment should include complete surgical excision, usually by radical inguinal orchiectomy. A long follow-up period is necessary.
Richter’s Syndrome with Hypercalcemia Induced by Tumor-Associated Production of Parathyroid Hormone-Related Peptide
Authors: Watanabe Naoki , Yasuda Hajime , Morishita Soji , Aota Yasuo , Tomomatsu Junichi , Tanaka Masaru , Ohsaka Akimichi , Komatsu Norio
Published: January 2017

Humoral hypercalcemia due to parathyroid hormone-related peptide (PTHrP) elevation is a well-known complication of various malignancies, but the situation is rare concerning hematological malignancies except for adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma. We report a case of Richter’s syndrome with humoral hypercalcemia, and demonstrate by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) that peripheral blood PTHrP levels were 2,500-fold higher compared to healthy controls. PTHrP production by tumor cells in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and Richter’s syndrome has been previously demonstrated by nonquantitative methods such as immunohistochemistry and northern blot analysis, but this is the first report using the RT-PCR method. The presented case did not have hypercalcemia when initially diagnosed as small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL), and as reported earlier, the development of hypercalcemia may be an indication of the transformation to Richter’s syndrome in patients with CLL/SLL.
MicroRNA-183 Suppresses Neuropathic Pain and Expression of AMPA Receptors by Targeting mTOR/VEGF Signaling Pathway
Authors: Xie Xiaojuan , Ma Ligang , Xi Kai , Zhang Wei , Fan Dongmei
Published: January 2017

Background: Neuropathic pain is a type of chronic pain that results from dysfunctions of the somatosensory nerve system. This study was aimed to investigate the effect of mTOR/VEGF signaling pathway on neuropathic pain and the regulation mechanisms of miR-183 on AMPA Receptors through mTOR/VEGF signaling pathway. Methods: Chronic compress injury (CCI) model was constructed in the current study, we used paw withdrawal mechanic threshold (PWMT) and paw withdrawal thermal latency (PWTL) to observe mTOR and VEGF receptors. Dual luciferase analysis, western blot and qRT-PCR were also applied to complete this experiment. Results: It was observed that the inhibition of mTOR and VEGF receptors could significantly relieve neuropathic pain in the CCI model. Moreover mTOR was confirmed as the direct target of miR-183. Furthermore, miR-183 could modulate VEGF through regulating mTOR expressions. We also found the expressions of AMPA receptors (i.e. GluR1 and GluR2), located in the downstream of mTOR/VEGF signaling pathway, were significantly upregulated when miR-183 was downregulated or when the mTOR/VEGF signaling pathway was activated. Conclusion: The inhibition of mTOR or VEGF receptors can significantly relieve neuropathic pain, and the upregulation of miR-183 can suppress AMPA receptors by inhibiting mTOR/VEGF pathway.
Overexpression of Cardiac-Specific Kinase TNNI3K Promotes Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells Differentiation into Cardiomyocytes
Authors: Wang Yin , Wang Shi-qiang , Wang Li-peng , Yao Yu-hong , Ma Chun-yan , Ding Jin-feng , Ye Jue , Meng Xian-min , Xu Rui-Xia , Li Jian-jun
Published: January 2017

Backgroud/Aims: The biological function of cardiac troponin I-interacting kinase (TNNI3K), a cardiac-specific functional kinase, is largely unknown. We investigated the effect of human TNNI3K (hTNNI3K) on the differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) into cardiomyocytes. Methods: First, the time-space expression of endogenous Tnni3k was detected by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and western blotting at 16 different time-points over a period of 28 days. Further, action potentials and calcium current with/without 5 µM nifedipine were measured by patch clamp for mESC-derived cardiomyocytes. HTNNI3K and mouse-derived siRNA were transfected into mESC using lentivirus vector to induce hTNNI3K overexpression and knock-down, respectively. Results: The number of troponin-T (cTnT) positive cells was greater in the group with TNNI3K overexpression as compared to that in control group, while less such cells were detected in the mTnni3k knock-down group as evaluated on flow cytometry (FCM) and ImageXpress Micro system. After upregulation of connexin43, cardiac troponin-I (Ctni), Ctni, Gata4 were detected in mESCs with TNNI3K overexpression; however, overexpression of α-Actinin and Mlc2v was not detected. Interestingly, Ctnt, connexin40 and connexin45, the markers of ventricular, atrial, and pacemaker cells, respectively, were detected in by real-time PCR in TNNI3K overexpression group. Conclusion: our study indicated that TNNI3K overexpression promoted mESC differentiating into beating cardiomyocytes and induced up-regulating expression of cTnT by PKCε signal pathway, which suggested a modulation of TNNI3K activity as a potential therapeutic approach for ischemic cardiac disease.
Signaling Pathway for Endothelin-1- and Phenylephrine-Induced cAMP Response Element Binding Protein Activation in Rat Ventricular Myocytes: Role of Inositol 1,4,5-Trisphosphate Receptors and CaMKII
Authors: Subedi Krishna P. , Son Min-Jeong , Chidipi Bojjibabu , Kim Seong-Woo , Wang Jun , Kim Kyeong-Hee , Woo Sun-Hee  , Kim Joon-Chul
Published: January 2017

Background/Aims: Endothelin-1 (ET-1) and the α1-adrenoceptor agonist phenylephrine (PE) activate cAMP response element binding protein (CREB), a transcription factor implicated in cardiac hypertrophy. The signaling pathway involved in CREB activation by these hypertrophic stimuli is poorly understood. We examined signaling pathways for ET-1- or PE-induced cardiac CREB activation. Methods: Western blotting was performed with pharmacological and genetic interventions in rat ventricular myocytes. Results: ET-1 and PE increased CREB phosphorylation, which was inhibited by blockade of phospholipase C, the extracellular-signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) pathway, protein kinase C (PKC) or Ca2+-calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII). Intracellular Ca2+ buffering decreased ET-1- and PE-induced CREB phosphorylation by ≥80%. Sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ pump inhibitor, inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3R) blockers, or type 2 IP3R (IP3R2) knock-out abolished ET-1- or PE-induced CREB phosphorylation. ET-1 and PE increased phosphorylation of CaMKII and ERK1/2, which was eliminated by IP3R blockade/knock-out or PKC inhibition. Activation of CaMKII, but not ERK1/2, by these agonists was sensitive to Ca2+ buffering or to Gö6976, the inhibitor of Ca2+-dependent PKC and protein kinase D (PKD). Conclusion: CREB phosphorylation by ET-1 and PE may be mainly mediated by IP3R2/Ca2+-PKC-PKD-CaMKII signaling with a minor contribution by ERK1/2, linked to IP3R2 and Ca2+-independent PKC, in ventricular myocytes.
ANCA Associated Vasculitis Secondary to Levamisole-Adultered Cocaine with Associated Membranous Nephropathy: A Case Series
Authors: Collister David , Sathianathan Christie , Ryz Krista , Karpinski Martin , Bernstein Keevin , Gibson Ian W.
Published: January 2017

Background: Cocaine is a risk factor for acute kidney injury and chronic kidney disease with progression to end-stage renal disease. Levamisole is an adulterant that is added to cocaine to enhance its euphoric effects. Levamisole-adulterated cocaine (LAC) is associated with the distinct clinical syndromes of agranulocytosis, leukocytoclastic vasculitis, cocaine-induced midline destructive lesions (CIMDL), and ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV) with pauci-immune necrotizing glomerulonephritis. Methods: We reviewed all cases of AAV secondary to LAC at our institution. Results: We report 3 cases of AAV secondary to LAC and associated membranous nephropathy (MN). The first and second cases are concurrent AAV secondary to LAC and associated MN while the third case involves the development of MN after AAV secondary to LAC. Conclusions: Clinicians should be aware of this novel association of LAC with MN.
Unilateral Idiopathic Calcinosis Cutis: A Case Report
Authors: Alsaif Fahad , Abduljabbar Amr M.
Published: January 2017

Calcinosis cutis is a rare disorder characterized by the deposition of calcium in the skin and subcutaneous tissue. Unilateral idiopathic calcinosis cutis has only rarely been reported in the literature. Here, we report the case of a 7-year-old healthy girl who presented with multiple asymptomatic hard nodules on the right side of her body. Histopathological, radiological, and extensive blood investigations confirmed the diagnosis of unilateral idiopathic calcinosis cutis.
RAPD Analysis to Detect Somaclonal Variation of Pineapple In Vitro Cultures during Micropropagation
Authors: Roostika Ika , Khumaida Nurul , Ardie Sintho Wahyuning
Published: January 2017

Plant off-types still become a concern in pineapple micropropagation. Reliable methods are needed to detect and to reduce plant off-types. This research was conducted to confirm the occurrence of somaclonal variation during micropropagation, to know the level of variation in three different populations, to detect and to reduce the somaclonal variation of pineapple clone Simadu. The first population was the acclimatized plants and plantlets of four-year old cultures. The second population was the plantlets yielded from three kinds of regeneration methods (direct organogenesis, indirect organogenesis, somatic embryogenesis) derived from the normal phenotype shoots selected from the first population. The third population was the new in vitro cultures regenerated by shoot proliferation and direct organogenesis methods. RAPD analysis by using 10 primers was performed to confirm genetic variation. The result showed that the phenotypic variation occurred in the four year-old pineapple plants and plantlets were due to genetic variation. This research has proved that the long-period of cultures is the main contributor of somaclonal variation, while the regeneration method and plant growth regulator could also induce genetic variation. The new cultures showed higher level of similarity. Therefore, it needs a correct strategy to apply micropropagation method.
Diversity of Epiphytic Orchids and Host Trees (Phorophytes) in Secondary Forest of Coban Trisula, Malang Regency, East Java, Indonesia
Authors: Nurfadilah Siti
Published: January 2017

Introduction: Epiphytic orchids are an integral component of forest ecosystems that contributes to a high proportion of plant diversity. Host trees are a natural habitat requirement of epiphytic orchids on which the orchids live on. The aim of this study was to investigate the diversity of epiphytic orchid and the host tree in a secondary forest of Coban Trisula (the Trisula waterfall) in a Mount Bromo area. Two line transects were used, with each line transect of 150 m x 10 m was divided into 15 plots (the size of each plot 10 m x 10 m), resulting in the total number of 30 sampling plots at the study site. Data (the species name and number of individuals of epiphytic orchid, the species name and number of individuals of host tree species, vertical distribution of the epiphytic orchids on the host tree, and environmental factors (temperature and relative humidity) were recorded in each plot.Â Â Â Â Â Results: There were 15 epiphytic orchid species, 13 genera in the secondary forest of Coban Trisula. Appendicula angustifolia was the most abundant epiphytic orchid species (Relative abundance of orchids; % Fo=52,4%), followed by Trichotosia annulata (% Fo=29,9%). There were nine host tree species on which the orchids attached. Number of host tree species of each orchid species varied, from one to five host tree species. Trichotosia annulata was an orchid that had the highest number of host tree species; 5 species). Castanopsis javanica, was a host tree on which the highest number of individual orchids attached (Ji/Jt= 589,5), followed by Engelhardia spicata (Ji/Jt=425,67). The greatest abundance of epiphytic orchids was on zone 3 and zone 4. Mean temperature was 22,2â°C, and relative humidity was 72,8 % at the site.Conclusion: Â The secondary forest of Coban Trisula had a diverse epiphytic orchid species and the host tree species. Management of orchid conservation is required to protect the diversity of orchids and the host tree species in the secondary forest in Coban Trisula from the potential human disturbances as Coban Trisula is one of tourist destinations.Â Key words: diversity, epiphytic orchid, host tree, secondary forest, Coban TrisulaÂ
Pace Yourself: Intraindividual Variability in Context Use Revealed by Self-paced Event-related Brain Potentials
Authors: Payne Brennan R. , Federmeier Kara D.
Published: January 2017

Event-related brain potentials (ERPs) have revealed multiple mechanisms by which contextual constraints impact language processing. At the same time, little work has examined the trial-to-trial dynamics of context use in the brain. In the current study, we probed intraindividual variability in behavioral and neural indices of context processing during reading. In a concurrent self-paced reading and ERP paradigm, participants read sentences that were either strongly or weakly constraining completed with an expected or unexpected target word. Our findings revealed substantial within-subject variability in behavioral and neural responses to contextual constraints. First, context-based amplitude reductions of the N400, a component linked to semantic memory access, were largest among trials eliciting the slowest RTs. Second, the RT distribution of unexpected words in strongly constraining contexts was positively skewed, reflecting an increased proportion of very slow RTs to trials that violated semantic predictions. Among those prediction-violating trials eliciting faster RTs, a late sustained anterior positivity was observed. However, among trials producing the differentially slowed RTs to prediction violations, we observed a markedly earlier effect of constraint in the form of an anterior N2, a component linked to conflict resolution and the cognitive control of behavior. The current study provides the first neurophysiological evidence for the direct role of cognitive control functions in the volitional control of reading. Collectively, our findings suggest that context use varies substantially within individual participants and that coregistering behavioral and neural indices of online sentence processing offers a window into these single-item dynamics.
Neural Oscillations and a Nascent Corticohippocampal Theory of Reference
Authors: Nieuwland Mante S. , Martin Andrea E.
Published: January 2017

The ability to use words to refer to the world is vital to the communicative power of human language. In particular, the anaphoric use of words to refer to previously mentioned concepts (antecedents) allows dialogue to be coherent and meaningful. Psycholinguistic theory posits that anaphor comprehension involves reactivating a memory representation of the antecedent. Whereas this implies the involvement of recognition memory or the mnemonic subroutines by which people distinguish old from new, the neural processes for reference resolution are largely unknown. Here, we report time–frequency analysis of four EEG experiments to reveal the increased coupling of functional neural systems associated with referentially coherent expressions compared with referentially problematic expressions. Despite varying in modality, language, and type of referential expression, all experiments showed larger gamma-band power for referentially coherent expressions compared with referentially problematic expressions. Beamformer analysis in high-density Experiment 4 localized the gamma-band increase to posterior parietal cortex around 400–600 msec after anaphor onset and to frontotemporal cortex around 500–1000 msec. We argue that the observed gamma-band power increases reflect successful referential binding and resolution, which links incoming information to antecedents through an interaction between the brain's recognition memory networks and frontotemporal language network. We integrate these findings with previous results from patient and neuroimaging studies, and we outline a nascent corticohippocampal theory of reference.
Individual Differences in Rhythm Skills: Links with Neural Consistency and Linguistic Ability
Authors: Tierney Adam , White-Schwoch Travis , MacLean Jessica , Kraus Nina
Published: January 2017

Durational patterns provide cues to linguistic structure, thus so variations in rhythm skills may have consequences for language development. Understanding individual differences in rhythm skills, therefore, could help explain variability in language abilities across the population. We investigated the neural foundations of rhythmic proficiency and its relation to language skills in young adults. We hypothesized that rhythmic abilities can be characterized by at least two constructs, which are tied to independent language abilities and neural profiles. Specifically, we hypothesized that rhythm skills that require integration of information across time rely upon the consistency of slow, low-frequency auditory processing, which we measured using the evoked cortical response. On the other hand, we hypothesized that rhythm skills that require fine temporal precision rely upon the consistency of fast, higher-frequency auditory processing, which we measured using the frequency-following response. Performance on rhythm tests aligned with two constructs: rhythm sequencing and synchronization. Rhythm sequencing and synchronization were linked to the consistency of slow cortical and fast frequency-following responses, respectively. Furthermore, whereas rhythm sequencing ability was linked to verbal memory and reading, synchronization ability was linked only to nonverbal auditory temporal processing. Thus, rhythm perception at different time scales reflects distinct abilities, which rely on distinct auditory neural resources. In young adults, slow rhythmic processing makes the more extensive contribution to language skills.
Effects of Cross-modal Asynchrony on Informational Masking in Human Cortex
Authors: Hausfeld Lars , Gutschalk Alexander , Formisano Elia , Riecke Lars
Published: January 2017

In many everyday listening situations, an otherwise audible sound may go unnoticed amid multiple other sounds. This auditory phenomenon, called informational masking (IM), is sensitive to visual input and involves early (50–250 msec) activity in the auditory cortex (the so-called awareness-related negativity). It is still unclear whether and how the timing of visual input influences the neural correlates of IM in auditory cortex. To address this question, we obtained simultaneous behavioral and neural measures of IM from human listeners in the presence of a visual input stream and varied the asynchrony between the visual stream and the rhythmic auditory target stream (in-phase, antiphase, or random). Results show effects of cross-modal asynchrony on both target detectability (RT and sensitivity) and the awareness-related negativity measured with EEG, which were driven primarily by antiphasic audiovisual stimuli. The neural effect was limited to the interval shortly before listeners' behavioral report of the target. Our results indicate that the relative timing of visual input can influence the IM of a target sound in the human auditory cortex. They further show that this audiovisual influence occurs early during the perceptual buildup of the target sound. In summary, these findings provide novel insights into the interaction of IM and multisensory interaction in the human brain.
Dopamine Selectively Modulates the Outcome of Learning Unnatural Action–Valence Associations
Authors: Van Wouwe Nelleke C. , Claassen Daniel O. , Neimat Joseph S. , Kanoff Kristen E. , Wylie Scott A.
Published: January 2017

Learning the contingencies between stimulus, action, and outcomes is disrupted in disorders associated with altered dopamine (DA) function in the BG, such as Parkinson disease (PD). Although the role of DA in learning to act has been extensively investigated in PD, the role of DA in “learning to withhold” (or inhibit) action to influence outcomes is not as well understood. The current study investigated the role of DA in learning to act or to withhold action to receive rewarding, or avoid punishing outcomes, in patients with PD tested “off” and “on” dopaminergic medication (n = 19) versus healthy controls (n = 30). Participants performed a reward-based learning task that orthogonalized action and outcome valence (action–reward, inaction–reward, action–punishment, inaction–punishment). We tested whether DA would bias learning toward action, toward reward, or to particular action–outcome interactions. All participants demonstrated inherent learning biases preferring action with reward and inaction to avoid punishment, and this was unaffected by medication. Instead, DA produced a complex modulation of learning less natural action–outcome associations. “Off” DA medication, patients demonstrated impairments in learning to withhold action to gain reward, suggesting a difficulty to overcome a bias toward associating inaction with punishment avoidance. On DA medication, these patterns changed, and patients showed a reduced ability to learn to act to avoid punishment, indicating a bias toward action and reward. The current findings suggest that DA in PD has a complex influence on the formation of action–outcome associations, particularly those involving less natural linkages between action and outcome valence.
Who Votes in East Asia?
Authors: Tambe Elvis Bisong
Published: January 2017

This paper reports an analysis of who votes in eight East Asian countries, based on self-reported turnout data collected by the Asian Barometer Surveys for over 10,105 voting-aged individuals. The major findings are that institutional variables appear to have much stronger effects than individual-level variables on the likelihood of voting in these democracies, which is consistent with some other comparative analyses of turnout in other geopolitical regions.
Contemporary Electoral Trends among Malaysian Chinese Voters
Authors: Khalid Khadijah Md , Loh Jason
Published: January 2017

General elections in Malaysia have traditionally been configured along ethnic lines. Yet this description makes for a complex analysis of the electoral landscape. Chinese votes have gone back and forth at every general election since 1969. Nonetheless, there were three significant occasions when the pendulum swing pattern was disrupted. The 1995, 1999 and 2004 general elections showed decisive Chinese support for the ruling coalition, only for a drastic reversal to occur in favour of the opposition in 2008. In making sense of current Chinese electoral trends, it is argued that patterns of continuity and discontinuity influenced by political consciousness and socialisation are critical factors to be considered.
Two new species of Tanaidacea of the genus Kalliapseudes Stebbing, 1910 (Crustacea: Apseudomorpha: Kalliapseudidae) from Australia
Authors: DRUMM DAVID T.
Published: January 2017

Two new species of kalliapseudid tanaidacea from Australia, Kalliapseudes longisetosus and Kalliapseudes messingi, are described from marine waters off Sydney, New South Wales and the Northwest continental shelf, respectively. Kalliapseudes longisetosus is distinguished from the other congeners by the presence of a single, very long simple seta on the anterior corners of the pereonites (about as long as the first pereonite) and several very long simple setae on the basis of the second and third pereopods (about as long as the basis). This new species is the second member of the genus to be reported from New South Wales. Kalliapseudes messingi is distinguished by having two small setae medially on the dactylus of pereopods 4 and 5, by the female having a tuft of sensory setae subterminally on the dactylus of pereopod 6, and by having three plumose setae on both the cheliped and pereopod 1 exopodite and is the first member of the genus to be reported from the Northwest continental shelf of Australia. Both species have a needle-like tip on the dactylus of the second and third pereopods. A table giving the distribution data for the species of Kalliapseudes and a key to the genera and species of Kalliapseudidae now known from Australia are presented.
Taxonomic re-appraisal of zooxanthellate Scleractinian Corals in the Maldive Archipelago
Authors: PICHON MICHEL , BENZONI FRANCESCA
Published: January 2017

A census of scleractinian species was carried out in 2002 and 2003 in the atolls of South Male, Felidhu, Wataru and Ari, in the central Maldives. Thirty four stations were surveyed by scuba diving between the depths of 0 and 50m. One hundred and eighty zooxanthellate coral species belonging to 51 genera were recorded, of which 17 species belonging to 14 genera are new records for the Maldives. A complete list of zooxanthellate scleractinian species including our own results as well as documented records published by previous authors is given. This list includes 248 species belonging to 57 genera. The taxonomic status of a number of species of doubtful validity cited by previous authors is discussed. The need for additional sampling throughout the entire Maldive Archipelago and for a re-examination of Gardiner’s material is stressed.
Four new species of Cymadusa Savigny, 1816 (Amphipoda: Ampithoidae) and new records of C. filosa Savigny, 1816 from Brazilian coast
Authors: ANDRADE LUIZ F. , SENNA ANDRÉ R.
Published: January 2017

Four new species of the genus Cymadusa are described from Brazil (states of Ceará, Espírito Santo and Rio de Janeiro). Cymadusa icapui is described from Ceará state, C. trindadensis is described from Espírito Santo state, C. rasae and C. tartarugae are described from Rio de Janeiro state. Two identification keys are presented: one to all known species of the family Ampithoidae from Brazil, and another one to world species of Cymadusa. Based on literary review and analysis of collection material, we extend the distribution of Cymadusa filosa Savigny, 1816 along the Brazilian coast by finding new location records of the species based on analysis of stored collection material.
Case Study of Potential Vorticity Tower in Three Explosive Cyclones over Eastern Asia
Authors: Pang Huaji , Fu Gang
Published: January 2017

Three cases of explosively developing extratropical cyclones over eastern Asia are analyzed using ERA-Interim data. The morphological characteristics of the upper-tropospheric potential vorticity (PV) were examined. The common feature of all of these three cases is a hook-shaped high-PV streamer wrapping counterclockwise around the center of surface cyclones on the southern and eastern sides and an arch-shaped low-PV tongue that wrapped the high-PV hook head from the north. The hook-shaped high-PV tongue overlaps with the maximum centers of both the relative vorticity and static stability parameter, indicating the stratospheric nature of the PV source inside the hook-shaped high-PV tongue.

The analysis indicates that there existed a deep tower of high PV above the surface cyclone at the time when these cyclones underwent explosive cyclogenesis. The high PV in the upper troposphere originates from the polar stratospheric PV reservoir associated with the tropopause-folding process. The high PV in the lower troposphere, however, is associated with the latent heat release, as nearly 70%–90% of the high-PV values in the lower troposphere reside in the region where the rainfall is the heaviest.
Seasonal Modulations of El Niño–Related Atmospheric Variability: Indo–Western Pacific Ocean Feedback
Authors: Xie Shang-Ping , Zhou Zhen-Qiang
Published: January 2017

The spatial structure of atmospheric anomalies associated with El Niño–Southern Oscillation varies with season because of the seasonal variations in sea surface temperature (SST) anomaly pattern and in the climatological basic state. The latter effect is demonstrated using an atmospheric model forced with a time-invariant pattern of El Niño warming over the equatorial Pacific. The seasonal modulation is most pronounced over the north Indian Ocean to northwest Pacific where the monsoonal winds vary from northeasterly in winter to southwesterly in summer. Specifically, the constant El Niño run captures the abrupt transition from a summer cyclonic to winter anticyclonic anomalous circulation over the northwest Pacific, in support of the combination mode idea that emphasizes nonlinear interactions of equatorial Pacific SST forcing and the climatological seasonal cycle. In post–El Niño summers when equatorial Pacific warming has dissipated, SST anomalies over the Indo–northwest Pacific Oceans dominate and anchor the coherent persisting anomalous anticyclonic circulation. A conceptual model is presented that incorporates the combination mode in the existing framework of regional Indo–western Pacific Ocean coupling.
Parameters of Cloud Ice Particles Retrieved from Radar Data
Authors: Melnikov Valery
Published: January 2017

The mean axis ratio (length/width) and the degree of orientation of cloud ice particles are retrieved from radar differential reflectivity (ZDR) and the copolar correlation coefficient (ρhv) measured with the S-band WSR-88D radar. Hardware differential phases and amplifications in the polarimetric channels affect measured ZDR and ρhv and are taken into consideration in the retrieval procedure. The retrieval is performed for particles in shapes of hexagonal prisms, which are closer to shapes of real cloud particles than frequently used spheroids. The median retrieved axis ratio for prisms is larger than that for spheroids. The statistical 1σ retrieval errors caused by fluctuations of radar returns are about 40% in areas of signal-to-noise ratios stronger than 10 dB. The values of the degree of orientation lie in an interval from 2° to 23°, which points to significant perturbations in the orientations of ice particles most likely caused by the wind field.
Reading Instruction in the Resource Room: Set up for Failure
Authors: Moody Sally Watson , Vaughn Sharon , Hughes Marie Tejero , Fischer Meryl
Published: January 2017

The reading instruction, grouping practices, and outcomes for students with learning disabilities (LD) in resource room settings were examined. The study was a follow-up of an observational study done 2 years previously (Vaughn, Moody, & Schumm, 1998). Whole class instruction was the dominant grouping format although several teachers used small groups and individualized activities. Half of the special education teachers provided differentiated materials and instruction to match the learning levels of the students that they taught. Overall, no significant gains in reading comprehension were evidenced by students in this study. Results from the fluency tests also revealed inadequate student progress in reading. The failure of the present structure of the resource room to provide opportunities for a special education is discussed.
Children Who are Hearing Impaired with Additional Disabilities and Related Aspects of Parental Stress
Authors: Hintermair Manfred
Published: January 2017

In a large-scale study performed in Germany, 317 parents were asked to complete both the Parenting Stress Index and an additional questionnaire on demographics and related information. This article explores the question of parenting stress for parents of children who are hearing impaired with additional disabilities. Results showed consistently high stress scores in the Child Domain, whereas the Parent Domain showed (apart from one score) only a slight tendency toward greater stress. These results realistically portray the situation of parents of children who are multiply disabled and hearing impaired The results suggest that these parents should be provided with extended psychosocial intervention.
Technology in Special Education–Some Implications
Authors: Blackhurst A. Edward
Published: January 2017

This paper illustrates the impact that technology could have on special education through the introduction of the student-subject matter interface concept. Various devices are described that could possibly be constructed to meet the unique needs of different types of exceptional children.
Categories and Variables in Special Education
Authors: Reynolds Maynard C. , Balow Bruce
Published: January 2017

This paper advocates an educationally focused definition of problems and procedures in educating handicapped children, with particular emphasis on the aptitude by treatment interaction model as a useful guide for both instructional and research activities. Specialized instructional systems based on decision variables are proposed as an alternative to simple categorization and placement of children based on source variables. A brief review of aptitude by treatment interaction research with handicapped children is followed by implications for the organization of schooling, diagnostic and instructional procedures, and preparation of teachers.
A Communication Model for Evaluation and Remediation
Authors: Bown J. Clinton
Published: January 2017

A communication model is described within the framework of channels, levels, and processes. The model is intended to clarify evaluative, prescriptive, and instructional practices for exceptional children. Diagnostic procedures, remedial strategies, and types of learning are related to the theoretical construct and its components. Specific components of communication are isolated; tests to assess these components are listed; instructional activities are suggested to facilitate and remediate deficits; and principles of learning theory are related to model levels.
Motoric Engramming for Sensory Deprivation or Disability
Authors: Whitcraft Carol Jones
Published: January 2017

The relationships of motoric involvement, perceptual-motor theories and neurophysiological evidence are examined for support of a motoric engramming approach to learning. Particularly noted is the necessity for motoric involvement of the blind or sensory disabled child. Four motor generalizations are postulated as basic to the establishment of body image and spatial perception.
Factors in Special Class Placement
Authors: Rubin Rosalyn A. , Krus Patricia , Balow Bruce
Published: January 2017

In an effort to identify factors associated with placement in classes for the educable retarded, comparisons were made between a group of 17 low IQ (< 80) regular class subjects and three groups of special class subjects: (a) 18 low IQ (< 80) subjects, (b) 9 average IQ (≧80) subjects, and (c) the total group of 32 special class subjects. No differences were found between regular and special class subjects on preschool readiness and language development or on achievement prior to differential placement. Significant socioeconomic status differences favored the regular class subjects. Both low socioeconomic status and poor school behavior were associated with special class placement of average IQ children. At 9 years of age, significant differences favoring regular class subjects were found on measures of academic achievement. These differences were attributed to the effects of differential school placement.
Graduation: What Happens to the Retarded Child When He Grows Up?
Authors: Stanfield James Stephen
Published: January 2017

Interviews were held with parents or guardians of 120 graduates of classes for the moderately (trainable) retarded in a large southern California metropolitan school district in the years 1968, 1969, and 1970. Information was gathered to assess the quality of community life experienced by these moderately retarded adults after graduation from school. Recommendation is made for (a) new criteria for evaluation of community adjustment of the moderately retarded which emphasizes comprehensive postschool programing to meet the recreational and social needs of the retarded as well as to provide occupational and vocational training and (b) community based residential facilities to provide such programing as an alternative to the parent care model and the permanent parent-child relationship it reinforces.
Head Start for the Handicapped: Congressional Mandate Audit
Authors: Ensher Gail L. , Blatt Burton , Winschel James F.
Published: January 2017

The 1972 Amendments to the Economic Opportunity Act mandated that not less than 10% of the Head Start enrollment nationwide be made available to handicapped children. This article reports research evaluating the effect of the mandate during the first year of its implementation. The findings indicate reasonable progress in meeting the needs of the handicapped; however, labeling appears to have increased and serious problems remain in accommodating youngsters with severe disabilities. Recommendations for the enhancement of Head Start efforts on behalf of the handicapped are including a suggestion for reducing society's inclination to segregate or exclude children with major differences in development.
Practical Implications of an Interactional Model of Child Development
Authors: Bijou Sidney W.
Published: January 2017

The interactional model of child development states that there is a continuous interaction between the behavior of a biologically maturing child and the progression of circumstances that constitutes the child's functional environment. This interaction produces (a) a unique pattern of behavior (personality) and (b) a unique physical, social, and behavioral structure in the environment (culture). The implications of the model for the education of the handicapped child are (a) a philosophy of education that emphasizes goals for all children, normal and deviant, (b) procedures for individualization of instruction, and (c) provisions for supporting classroom teaching.
Issues in the Implementation of Extended School Year Programs for Handicapped Students
Authors: Larsen Larry , Goodman Libby , Glean Richard
Published: January 2017

For some severely and profoundly handicapped children who have a regression-recoupment disability, the lengthy interruption in school programing during the summer months poses serious obstacles to learning. As a result of court decisions in Armstrong v. Kline and Battle v. Commonwealth, the public schools now have an obligation to identify these children and to provide programs suited to their needs. School personnel are urged to take the initiative in developing quality extended school year programs that accommodate the need for clear eligibility criteria based on valid and reliable student performance data, reducing the number of students in need through effective instruction and parent/home involvement; exploring the use of alternative service models; identifying funding mechanisms for extended year programs; and operating programs cost effectively.
Early Childhood Education for the Handicapped in the 1980's: Recommendations
Authors: Anastasiow Nicholas J.
Published: January 2017

The author interviewed 13 specialists in early childhood education for the handicapped as to their opinions regarding and hopes for the field in the next decade. These interviews are analyzed and the results presented as a series of obtainable goals for the 1980's. The recommendations vary from suggestions for modification of training in universities and colleges to the establishment of family centers.
A Study of the Implementation of Public Law 94–142 for Handicapped Migrant Children
Authors: Pyecha John N. , Ward Lucia A.
Published: January 2017

During the spring of 1980, the Research Triangle Institute conducted a telephone survey to determine the extent to which a sample of 153 handicapped migrant children were identified as being handicapped—and had IEP's prepared—by schools in which they were enrolled from January 1978 through June 1979. The survey also was used to determine the extent to which IEP's and IEP-related information were transmitted between, and utilized by, staff of the various schools in which the students were enrolled. Findings indicate that: (a) the various schools in which students were enrolled were inconsistent in identifying these students as needing special education and in preparing their IEP's; (b) IEP's were developed less frequently for the most mobile than for the less mobile migrant students; (c) only a small percentage of the students had IEP's developed at more than one school; and (d) IEP's and IEP-related information were rarely transmitted between schools.
Time Management Training for Providers of Special Services
Authors: Maher Charles A.
Published: January 2017

A result of the enactment of Public Law 94–142 has been that special service providers in public schools (e.g., psychologists, social workers) must increase the amount of professional time spent in planning and evaluating Individualized Education Programs (IEP's). The need to expand the range of professional functioning to include areas other than assessment and direct service has created difficulties for service providers in managing the productive use of their professional time. In this paper, a time management training program is described that can be used by public school special service providers when the task is seen as one of allocation of adequate amounts of time to IEP planning and evaluation. Also, information is presented from a formative evaluation of the application of the approach in a public school district.
Private School Placement: A Local Director's Perspective
Authors: Audette David
Published: January 2017

The consideration of private placement for a handicapped student's educational program by a local special services director can often be a complex deliberation. The irony of increased private placements for mild/moderately handicapped students, on the heels of landmark court cases mandating deinstitutionalization of programs for the handicapped (PARC, 1971; Mills, 1972), warrants a scrutiny of the interpretation and implementation of P.L. 94–142. Definitions of concepts such as “appropriate education” and “least restrictive environment” must be resolved. Problems of tuition rates, transportation costs, and due process activities are dilemmas which often accompany the issue of a private placement. Local education agency emphasis on well-developed local programming along with state education agency monitoring vigilance of federal regulations pertaining to least restrictive environment issues can provide a proper perspective to the question of private placement.
A Team Approach to Planning and Evaluating Personnel Preparation Programs in Public Schools
Authors: Maher Charles A.
Published: January 2017

Utilization of a Personnel Preparation Team for planning and evaluating personnel preparation programs in public school districts within the context of Public Law 94–142 (The Education for All Handicapped Children Act of 1975) is described, outcome evidence supporting the effectiveness of the approach is reported, and considerations in its implementation are discussed. The Team Approach, developed by the author and used in numerous public school districts, has three goals: (a) identification and assessment of the personnel preparation needs of public school district staff; (b) design of a personnel preparation plan consisting of programs that address priority needs; and (c) evaluation of plan implementation and outcome. A Team comprises a cross section of teachers, specialists (e.g., counselors), and administrators. This multidisciplinary approach allows a range of perspectives to be considered when planning and evaluating personnel preparation programs, thereby helping to ensure actual program implementation and expected program outcome.
Successful Weight Loss Techniques with Mentally Retarded Children and Youth
Authors: Fox Robert , Switzky Harvey , Rotatori Anthony F. , Vitkus Phil
Published: January 2017

This article describes obesity and its treatment in mentally retarded children and youth. The major cause of obesity and commonly associated syndromes in the retarded are discussed. Traditional treatment approaches, such as psychotherapy, caloric restriction, increased activity, and anorexiant drugs are discussed. Contemporary behavioral approaches to the obese retarded population are reviewed. Implications for practitioners beginning a weight control program are delineated.
Models for Serving Rural Students with Low-Incidence Handicapping Conditions
Authors: Helge Doris
Published: January 2017

Traditional models designed to provide a continuum of services to handicapped students are inadequate for rural schools attempting to serve students with low-incidence disabilities. Because of the tremendous diversity in rural schools and communities, there is no “one” rural service delivery model. This article delineates factors that must be considered and variables that must be controlled by the rural service delivery model planner. Samples of successful statewide and local district models are described. Each model was designed by manipulation of variables such as staffing, transportation, and governance systems after consideration of district and community characteristics.
Technological Tools for Rural Special Education
Authors: Hofmeister Alan M.
Published: January 2017

Many of the problems of education relate to communication issues. The developing new technologies offer considerable promise because of their information orientation. The realization of these promises will depend on the degree to which rural educators prepare themselves to capitalize on the advantages and avoid the problems associated with the new technologies. One of the advantages of the new information technologies is the potential to support the concept of “universal excellence” in instructional delivery systems.
A Report on the Colorado Statewide Follow-up Survey of Special Education Students
Authors: Mithaug Dennis E. , Horiuchi Chiyo N. , Fanning Peter N.
Published: January 2017

In April of 1982, the Colorado Department of Education authorized a follow-up survey of students completing special education services in 1978. A total of 234 graduates from programs in 26 administrative units responded. The results of the survey suggested that special education programs have been influential in preparing handicapped students for post-high-school adjustments in the community. Although most graduates were employed, their earnings were at minimal levels. Furthermore, most of the respondents lived at home with their parents, suggesting a pattern of financial instability and family dependence. Respondents indicated a need for more training in specific areas such as social participation and job search and selection. They also reported that special education teachers have been more helpful in finding jobs for them than their parents.