bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in Cyclone Characteristics in Response to Modified SSTs
Authors: Graff L. S. , LaCasce J. H.
Published: March 2014

The impact of changes in sea surface temperature (SST) on the statistics of extratropical cyclones is investigated. The cyclones were identified in an atmospheric general circulation model (AGCM) using an objective Lagrangian tracking algorithm, applied to the 850-hPa relative vorticity. The statistics were generated for several 20-yr simulations, in which the SSTs were warmed or cooled by 2 K in latitudinal bands. The response was studied in both hemispheres, during summer and winter.

Changes in the position of the storm tracks are largely consistent with those seen in previous studies. Increasing SSTs uniformly or increasing the midlatitude SST gradient results in a poleward shift in the storm tracks, with the clearest trends seen in the Southern Hemisphere (SH). Here it is demonstrated that the SST modifications alter the cyclone characteristics as well. When the warming includes the low latitudes and/or the midlatitude gradient is increased, there are more short-lived cyclones. These are also on average more intense and translate faster, both poleward and eastward.

The poleward displacement is correlated with cyclone intensity, so that stronger cyclones translate to higher latitudes. This is suggestive of vortex self-advection in the presence of a mean potential vorticity (PV) gradient. The increased eastward translation is correlated with the depth-averaged zonal velocity, and so is likely related to an increase in the steering-level velocity. These changes in cyclone translation probably contribute to the changes in the storm tracks seen previously.
Impacts of Parameterized Langmuir Turbulence and Nonbreaking Wave Mixing in Global Climate Simulations
Authors: Fan Yalin , Griffies Stephen M.
Published: March 2014

The impacts of parameterized upper-ocean wave mixing on global climate simulations are assessed through modification to Large et al.’s K-profile ocean boundary layer parameterization (KPP) in a coupled atmosphere–ocean–wave global climate model. The authors consider three parameterizations and focus on impacts to high-latitude ocean mixed layer depths and related ocean diagnostics. The McWilliams and Sullivan parameterization (MS2000) adds a Langmuir turbulence enhancement to the nonlocal component of KPP. It is found that the Langmuir turbulence–induced mixing provided by this parameterization is too strong in winter, producing overly deep mixed layers, and of minimal impact in summer. The later Smyth et al. parameterization modifies MS2000 by adding a stratification effect to restrain the turbulence enhancement under weak stratification conditions (e.g., winter) and to magnify the enhancement under strong stratification conditions. The Smyth et al. scheme improves the simulated winter mixed layer depth in the simulations herein, with mixed layer deepening in the Labrador Sea and shoaling in the Weddell and Ross Seas. Enhanced vertical mixing through parameterized Langmuir turbulence, coupled with enhanced lateral transport associated with parameterized mesoscale and submesoscale eddies, is found to be a key element for improving mixed layer simulations. Secondary impacts include strengthening the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation and reducing the Antarctic Circumpolar Current. The Qiao et al. nonbreaking wave parameterization is the third scheme assessed here. It adds a wave orbital velocity to the Reynolds stress calculation and provides the strongest summer mixed layer deepening in the Southern Ocean among the three experiments, but with weak impacts during winter.
Evaluation of the Surface Representation of the Greenland Ice Sheet in a General Circulation Model
Authors: Cullather Richard I. , Nowicki Sophie M. J. , Zhao Bin , Suarez Max J.
Published: March 2014

Simulated surface conditions of the Goddard Earth Observing System model, version 5 (GEOS-5), atmospheric general circulation model (AGCM) are examined for the contemporary Greenland Ice Sheet (GrIS). A surface parameterization that explicitly models surface processes including snow compaction, meltwater percolation and refreezing, and surface albedo is found to remedy an erroneous deficit in the annual net surface energy flux and provide an adequate representation of surface mass balance (SMB) in an evaluation using simulations at two spatial resolutions. The simulated 1980–2008 GrIS SMB average is 24.7 ± 4.5 cm yr−1 water-equivalent (w.e.) at ½° model grid spacing, and 18.2 ± 3.3 cm yr−1 w.e. for 2° grid spacing. The spatial variability and seasonal cycle of the ½° simulation compare favorably to recent studies using regional climate models, while results from 2° integrations reproduce the primary features of the SMB field. In comparison to historical glaciological observations, the coarser-resolution model overestimates accumulation in the southern areas of the GrIS, while the overall SMB is underestimated. These changes relate to the sensitivity of accumulation and melt to the resolution of topography. The GEOS-5 SMB fields contrast with available corresponding atmospheric models simulations from phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5). It is found that only a few of the CMIP5 AGCMs examined provide significant summertime runoff, a dominant feature of the GrIS seasonal cycle. This is a condition that will need to be remedied if potential contributions to future eustatic change from polar ice sheets are to be examined with GCMs.
Sensitivity of Tropical Cyclone Rainfall to Idealized Global-Scale Forcings*
Authors: Villarini Gabriele , Lavers David A. , Scoccimarro Enrico , Zhao Ming , Wehner Michael F. , Vecchi Gabriel A. , Knutson Thomas R. , Reed Kevin A.
Published: April 2014

Heavy rainfall and flooding associated with tropical cyclones (TCs) are responsible for a large number of fatalities and economic damage worldwide. Despite their large socioeconomic impacts, research into heavy rainfall and flooding associated with TCs has received limited attention to date and still represents a major challenge. The capability to adapt to future changes in heavy rainfall and flooding associated with TCs is inextricably linked to and informed by understanding of the sensitivity of TC rainfall to likely future forcing mechanisms. Here a set of idealized high-resolution atmospheric model experiments produced as part of the U.S. Climate Variability and Predictability (CLIVAR) Hurricane Working Group activity is used to examine TC response to idealized global-scale perturbations: the doubling of CO2, uniform 2-K increases in global sea surface temperature (SST), and their combined impact. As a preliminary but key step, daily rainfall patterns of composite TCs within climate model outputs are first compared and contrasted to the observational records. To assess similarities and differences across different regions in response to the warming scenarios, analyses are performed at the global and hemispheric scales and in six global TC ocean basins. The results indicate a reduction in TC daily precipitation rates in the doubling CO2 scenario (on the order of 5% globally) and an increase in TC rainfall rates associated with a uniform increase of 2 K in SST (both alone and in combination with CO2 doubling; on the order of 10%–20% globally).
Forecaster Use and Evaluation of Real-Time 3DVAR Analyses during Severe Thunderstorm and Tornado Warning Operations in the Hazardous Weather Testbed
Authors: Calhoun Kristin M. , Smith Travis M. , Kingfield Darrel M. , Gao Jidong , Stensrud David J.
Published: March 2014

A weather-adaptive three-dimensional variational data assimilation (3DVAR) system was included in the NOAA Hazardous Weather Testbed as a first step toward introducing warn-on-forecast initiatives into operations. NWS forecasters were asked to incorporate the data in conjunction with single-radar and multisensor products in the Advanced Weather Interactive Processing System (AWIPS) as part of their warning-decision process for real-time events across the United States. During the 2011 and 2012 experiments, forecasters examined more than 36 events, including tornadic supercells, severe squall lines, and multicell storms. Products from the 3DVAR analyses were available to forecasters at 1-km horizontal resolution every 5 min, with a 4–6-min latency, incorporating data from the national Weather Surveillance Radar-1988 Doppler (WSR-88D) network and the North American Mesoscale model. Forecasters found the updraft, vertical vorticity, and storm-top divergence products the most useful for storm interrogation and quickly visualizing storm trends, often using these tools to increase the confidence in a warning decision and/or issue the warning slightly earlier. The 3DVAR analyses were most consistent and reliable when the storm of interest was in close proximity to one of the assimilated WSR-88D, or data from multiple radars were incorporated into the analysis. The latter was extremely useful to forecasters in blending data rather than having to analyze multiple radars separately, especially when range folding obscured the data from one or more radars. The largest hurdle for the real-time use of 3DVAR or similar data assimilation products by forecasters is the data latency, as even 4–6 min reduces the utility of the products when new radar scans are available.
Policing Human Trafficking
Authors: Farrell Amy , Pfeffer Rebecca
Published: March 2014

Since 2000, the federal government and all fifty states have passed laws that criminalize the trafficking of persons for labor and commercial sex. To date, relatively few human trafficking cases have been identified, investigated, and prosecuted by local criminal justice authorities. Using data from case records and qualitative interviews with police, prosecutors, and victim service providers in twelve counties, we discuss the challenges local police face in identifying cases of human trafficking. We find that the culture of local police agencies and the perceptions of police officials about human trafficking do not support the identification of a broad range of human trafficking cases. Since local definitions of human trafficking are still evolving, police focus on sex trafficking of minors, which they perceive to be the most serious problem facing their communities. Reluctance to differentiate between vice and sex trafficking minimizes the problem of human trafficking and makes labor trafficking seem largely nonexistent.
Trafficking, Scandal, and Abuse of Migrant Workers in Argentina and the United States
Authors: Brennan Denise
Published: March 2014

This article examines the varied consequences that the label “trafficked” holds for migrants and for the organizations that assist them. In the case of migrants from the Dominican Republic to Argentina, threat of U.S. economic sanctions prompted the two governments to document incidents of trafficking by labeling all forms of migrant labor exploitation as trafficking. Collapsing a range of coerced and noncoerced labor experiences under one label has muddied the definition of trafficking. In contrast, U.S. trafficking policy systematically ignores significant exploitation of labor migrants, in part because of the volatile politics of immigration in the United States, and because of the conflation of sex trafficking with trafficking. The article uses these two examples of the effects of labeling exploited workers as trafficking victims to draw attention to the politicization of the term “trafficking.”
Teenage Labor Migration and Antitrafficking Policy in West Africa
Authors: Howard Neil
Published: March 2014

Within the antitrafficking community, even legal child or youth work is often pathologized, seen as a “worst form of child labor” or, where movement is involved, as trafficking. Major policy responses thus focus on attempting to protect the young by preventing their movement or policing their work. Using a case study of adolescent labor migrants in Benin who work in artisanal gravel quarries in Nigeria, I provide evidence that suggests that the dominant discourse regarding this kind of labor is inaccurate and that policies based on it may be failing. This is in large part because the labor migration depicted as “trafficking” by the antitrafficking community is not experienced as such by young migrants.
Human Trafficking and Moral Panic in Cambodia
Authors: Keo Chenda , Bouhours Thierry , Broadhurst Roderic , Bouhours Brigitte
Published: March 2014

This article examines the backgrounds of traffickers in Cambodia: why they became involved in trafficking, how they operate, their earnings, and the criminal justice system’s response to their activities. Our research draws from interviews with justice officials, NGOs, and detained alleged traffickers; and from a review of police and prison records. The results challenge alarmist claims about the high prevalence, profitability, or role of organized crime in human trafficking. In Cambodia, 80 percent of incarcerated traffickers are poor uneducated women who lack legitimate opportunities and whose unsophisticated illicit activities earn very little. We argue that the Cambodian government, in return for foreign aid, adopted a repressive law that defines human trafficking ineptly; in the hands of a dysfunctional justice system, the law has turned into an instrument of corruption and injustice against powerless individuals.
Human Trafficking in Eastern Europe
Authors: Petrunov Georgi
Published: March 2014

Eastern Europe is among the major sources of migrants who travel for work to other European nations. In this research, in-depth interviews and analysis of legal cases of migration in Bulgaria reveal that the typical kinds of human trafficking in the region are sexual exploitation, labor exploitation, forced servitude, and trafficking of pregnant women for the sale of their babies. For each type, I examine victim profiles, recruitment strategies, transportation, and the types of control and exploitation that traffickers use. Comparisons are drawn between the Bulgarian findings and patterns in other Eastern European nations.
New Directions in Research on Human Trafficking
Authors: Weitzer Ronald
Published: March 2014

This article evaluates four popular claims regarding human trafficking’s international magnitude, trends, and seriousness relative to other illicit global activities. I find that the claims are neither evidence-based nor verifiable. Second, an argument is made for carefully conducted microlevel research on trafficking. Several such studies are described, including the contributions to this volume of The Annals. I argue for microlevel research, which has advantages over grand, macrolevel claims—advantages that are both quantitative (i.e., identifying the magnitude of trafficking within a measurable context) and qualitative (i.e., documenting complexities in lived experiences)—and is better suited to formulating contextually appropriate policy and enforcement responses.
To Switch or Not To Switch
Authors: Zhu Haiyi , Huberman Bernardo A.
Published: March 2014

The authors designed and ran an experiment to measure social influence in online recommender systems, specifically, how often people’s choices are changed by others’ recommendations when facing different levels of confirmation and conformity pressures. In this experiment, participants were first asked to provide their preference from pairs of items. They were then asked to make second choices about the same pairs with knowledge of other people’s preferences. The results show that other people’s opinions significantly sway people’s own choices. The influence is stronger when people are required to make their second decision sometime later (22.4%) rather than immediately (14.1%). Moreover, people seem to be most likely to reverse their choices when facing a moderate, as opposed to large, number of opposing opinions. Finally, the time people spend making the first decision significantly predicts whether they will reverse their decisions later on, whereas demographics such as age and gender do not. These results have implications for consumer behavior research as well as online marketing strategies.
Social Network Influence on Online Behavioral Choices
Authors: Kwon K. Hazel , Stefanone Michael A. , Barnett George A.
Published: March 2014

Social media communication is characterized by reduced anonymity and off-to-online social interactions. These characteristics require scholars to revisit social influence mechanisms online. The current study builds on social influence literature to explore social network and gender effects on online behavior. Findings from a quasi-experiment suggest that both network-related variables and gender are significantly associated with online behavior. Perceived social environment, measured by personal network exposure rate, is more significant than objective reality, measured by frequency of received social messages, in determining behavior. We discuss the implications of social contagion effects on web-based strategic communication—including advertising, political campaigns, and social mobilization. Data limitations and the difficulty of measuring social network influence via social media are also discussed.
Frequent Contributors Within U.S. Newspaper Comment Forums
Authors: Blom Robin , Carpenter Serena , Bowe Brian J. , Lange Ryan
Published: March 2014

News organizations’ online commenting tools have been touted as a boon for the deliberative process, yet only to the extent that they are used by a diverse group of participants who are civil and who provide information that enriches dialogue. The researchers in this study analyzed the degree to which posts in newspaper forums originated from frequent contributors and the civil and informational characteristics of those contributions. A content analysis of comments ( N = 2,237) within forums adjacent to opinion articles on websites of 15 U.S. newspaper dailies was conducted to assess their civility (uncivil character attacks and uncivil language) and informational attributes. Frequent contributors—people who post often on a forum in a short period—were less likely to be civil and informational.
Improvement in Sensorineural Hearing Loss During Pregnancy
Authors: Stevens Madelyn N. , Hullar Timothy E.
Published: March 2014

Objective:

Hearing loss is known to occur in some pregnant women, but improvement in sensorineural thresholds has not been audiometrically characterized. Here, we describe a patient with a history of Ménière’s disease and vestibular migraine who experienced temporary recovery of her hearing during pregnancy.

Methods:

Audiograms were obtained from a 31-year-old female over the course of 2 successive pregnancies.

Results:

Audiograms revealed a substantial improvement in hearing by the third trimester during each pregnancy, with a rapid return to baseline thresholds after delivery.

Conclusion:

This case is unique in documenting improvements in hearing thresholds during pregnancy and substantiates the effects of hormonal changes on hearing thresholds in humans. It raises the intriguing possibility of hormonal therapy as a treatment for sensorineural hearing loss in specific clinical situations.
Otologic Manifestations of Immunoglobulin G4-Related Disease
Authors: Takagi Dai , Nakamaru Yuji , Fukuda Satoshi
Published: March 2014

Objective:

Immunoglobulin (Ig) G4-related disease is systemic, and it has been reported that patients with IgG4-related disease complain of symptoms involving numerous organs. However, there are few reports concerning the otologic manifestations of IgG4-related disease. The purpose of this study is to investigate the clinical features of the otologic manifestations in IgG4-related disease.

Methods:

We recruited 39 consecutive patients diagnosed with IgG4-related disease. Otologic symptoms, laboratory data, and audiogram findings were retrospectively examined. Mucosal tissues from the inferior turbinate were obtained from subjects before treatment. The serum IgG4 and eosinophil levels together with clinical features were analyzed.

Results:

Five of the 39 cases had some otologic symptoms. Otitis media with effusion was present in 2 patients. Sensorineural hearing loss was also present in 1 patient. Eosinophilic otitis media was present in 2 patients with bilateral rhinosinusitis and bronchial asthma, and elevated serum eosinophil levels. Oral prednisolone was effective in the treatment of IgG4-related disease.

Conclusion:

We revealed a new clinical entity associated with the otologic manifestations of IgG4-related disease.
Rehabilitation and prison social climate: Do ‘What Works’ rehabilitation programs work better in prisons that have a positive social climate?
Authors: Harding Richard
Published: March 2014

The ‘What Works’ literature has established that prison-based rehabilitation programs can reduce post-release re-offending rates amongst some offenders. Validated tools for measuring prison social climate have reliably identified regime factors that tend to make the prison experience less negative for prisoners. Experience in other human service areas would suggest that programs delivered in a positive prison social climate should be more effective than those delivered in a negative climate. However, the two lines of research exist in parallel without directly intersecting. This article examines research evidence that is laterally or tangentially relevant. The conclusion is that it would be perverse to structure penal administration policies around the view that a positive prison social climate cannot make any difference to re-offending rates. The evidence is that a good prison social climate would seem likely, other things being equal, to improve the outcomes achievable through proven ‘What Works’ rehabilitation programs. The research methodology to establish this correlation is complex. The article concludes by addressing these complexities and suggesting a viable methodology.
Online frauds: Learning from victims why they fall for these scams
Authors: Button Mark , Nicholls Carol McNaughton , Kerr Jane , Owen Rachael
Published: March 2014

Online frauds have become a major problem in many countries with millions of victims from a wide diversity of scams committed in full or part online. This paper explores the extent and nature of this problem. Using data from depth interviews with 15 online fraud victims, 6 focus groups with a further 48 online fraud victims and interviews with 9 professional stakeholders involved in combating this problem. The paper explores why victims fall for online scams. It identifies a range of reasons including: the diversity of frauds, small amounts of money sought, authority and legitimacy displayed by scammers, visceral appeals, embarrassing frauds, pressure and coercion, grooming, fraud at a distance and multiple techniques.
Comparison of Urinary Tract Infection Rates Among 2- to 12-Month-Old Febrile Infants With RSV Infections Using 1999 and 2011 AAP Diagnostic Criteria
Authors: Kaluarachchi Dinushan , Kaldas Virginia , Roques Euripedes , Nunez Randolph , Mendez Magda
Published: March 2014

Background. Infants with RSV infections have been found to have a clinically significant rate of urinary tract infections (UTIs). The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) published a revised Clinical Practice Guideline on UTIs in 2011, which includes major changes in diagnostic criteria for UTIs. Past research has been done using previous diagnostic criteria. The objective of the study is to assess the rate of UTIs in febrile infants with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections according to the 2011 revised AAP Diagnostic Criteria and compare the rate of UTIs against the 1999 AAP Diagnostic Criteria. Methods. A retrospective comparative study of febrile infants (2-12 months) with RSV infections admitted to the Inpatient Pediatric unit of Lincoln Medical and Mental Center, Bronx, NY, from September through April 2006 to 2012. We applied the AAP’s 1999 and 2011 diagnostic criteria for UTIs separately to assess the rates of UTIs. Results. A total of 359 RSV-positive febrile patients who were investigated for UTIs were enrolled. Pyuria was found in 11.1% (40/359), positive urine culture 10 000 to 50 000 was found in 1.4% (5/359) and ≥50 000 in 4.7% (17/359). The rate of UTIs using AAP’s 1999 criteria was 6.1% (22/359), and using the 2011 criteria the rate was 1.1% (4/359). The rate of UTIs was significantly different between the 2 groups (odds ratio [confidence interval] = 0.17 [0.05, 0.5], P = .001). Conclusions. The rate of UTIs in RSV-positive febrile infants is very low (1.1%) with the 2011 AAP diagnostic criteria. Previously described increased risk of UTIs may represent asymptomatic bacteriuria or contaminated specimens.
Measuring Canadian foreign policy
Authors: Bow Brian
Published: March 2014

In “Yearning for a progressive research program in Canadian foreign policy,” Jean-Christophe Boucher attempts to survey and evaluate the field of Canadian foreign policy (CFP) using Lakatosian theory-testing criteria. This short response raises a number of questions about Boucher’s approach, the most important of which is a challenge to his characterization of CFP as a specialized subfield of political science. Rather, it is argued, CFP should be understood as an interdisciplinary project, whose contributions should be evaluated in terms of multiple disciplinary practices and standards.
Yearning for a progressive research program in Canadian foreign policy
Authors: Boucher Jean-Christophe
Published: March 2014

According to Imre Lakatos, progressive research programs are centred on the notion of an empirical knowledge foundation where new theories and methods lead to novel factual discoveries. Only through advanced but diverse methodologically sound strategies can one hope for a “better” understanding of events. With Lakatosian analysis in mind, this paper examines the state of Canadian foreign policy scholarship. The author has collected 531 peer-reviewed articles pertaining to Canadian foreign policy published between 2002 and 2012 in five leading peer-reviewed publications: Canadian Foreign Policy Journal, International Journal, the Canadian Journal of Political Science, the American Review of Canadian Studies, and Études Internationales. He has differentiated these articles based on five methodological approaches: description, quantitative analysis, comparative study, critical study, and qualitative analysis. The results suggest a disheartening lack of diversity in the methodological approaches guiding Canadian foreign policy scholarship. Moreover, the overwhelming preference for descriptive methods indicates clear signs of a degenerative research program.
The Persistence of Land Alienation: The Experience of Tribal People of Andhra Pradesh
Authors: Rupavath Ramdas
Published: March 2014

This article provides an overview of the policies of the colonial and post-colonial state regarding the tribal people of Andhra Pradesh. The penetration of colonial capital, the policies of the Nizam state which supported this and the resultant process of land alienation is analysed, followed by the presentation of various attempts by the post-colonial state to return tribal land by means of the Land Regulation Act, to rectify the wrongs of the past and to halt any further alienation. The article concludes by arguing that the state has not been successful in ending the process of land alienation which destroys tribal life.
From Jay-Z to Dead Prez
Authors: Belle Crystal
Published: March 2014

The evolution of hip-hop music and culture has impacted the visibility of Black men and the Black male body. As hip-hop continues to become commercially viable, performances of Black masculinities can be easily found on magazine covers, television shows, and popular websites. How do these representations affect the collective consciousness of Black men, while helping to construct a particular brand of masculinity that plays into the White imagination? This theoretical article explores how representations of Black masculinity vary in underground versus mainstream hip-hop, stemming directly from White patriarchal ideals of manhood. Conceptual and theoretical analyses of songs from the likes of Jay-Z and Dead Prez and Imani Perry’s Prophets of the Hood help provide an understanding of the parallels between hip-hop performances/identities and Black masculinities.
Unravelling the prostate-specific antigen controversy: a West of Scotland perspective
Authors: Zafar Nauman , Miller Steve , Leburn Vicki , Qureshi Khaver N , Rajan Prabhakar
Published: March 2014

Background

The use of serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) as a screening tool for prostate cancer in asymptomatic men is hugely controversial in the light of randomised controlled trials failing to demonstrate a benefit without risk of significant overtreatment. However, PSA can be used as a tool to risk assess disease progression in men with lower urinary tract symptoms suggestive of benign prostatic enlargement (LUTS/BPE). The aim of this study was to canvas the opinions of West of Scotland Urologists regarding the use of PSA in both symptomatic and asymptomatic patients.

Methods

A questionnaire-based survey was sent to all the Consultants and Trainees in the West of Scotland.

Results

Survey response rate was 45% (47/105). In patients <70 years, 93% would perform a PSA testing in patients symptomatic of LUTS/BPE, but only 17% would offer PSA screening to asymptomatic patients. In patients >70 years, only 48% of urologists would perform a PSA if patients were symptomatic and none would offer PSA screening. In terms of self-testing, 59% of urologists would have a PSA test if symptomatic and 31% of urologists would have PSA screening.

Conclusions

This study highlights significant variability in the use of PSA for both asymptomatic and symptomatic men. Despite a lack of evidence, PSA screening is still offered to asymptomatic men. Further randomised studies are required to determine the utility of PSA-based screening algorithms for prostate cancer detection.
Pseudoaneurysm of the sural artery: a rare complication of lower limb angioplasty
Authors: Aziz Abdul , Green Allan , Maskova Jana , Rajagopalan Sriram , Bachoo Paul
Published: March 2014

Introduction

Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) is a common therapeutic option for the treatment of peripheral vascular disease. Pseudoaneurysm at the puncture site is a well-documented complication in patients.

Case presentation

This case report describes a patient who presented to hospital several days following a left superficial femoral and popliteal artery PTA with lower limb pain and swelling. The working diagnosis included a deep vein thrombosis based on the Wells criteria. However, a combination of a duplex scan and computed tomography angiography confirmed a clinically rare occurrence of pseudoaneurysm of the sural artery, a branch of the popliteal artery. This was managed successfully with a thrombin injection, leading to complete resolution of the patient’s symptoms.

Conclusion

This case highlights the importance of the technical aspects of performing a PTA. We believe that the guide-wire position was not confirmed to be completely in the popliteal artery upon inflation of the balloon.
Negative and Positive Freedom: Lessons from, and to, Sociology
Authors: Bowring Finn
Published: March 2014

Isaiah Berlin’s ‘Two Concepts of Liberty’ was a milestone in the development of modern political theory, with his advocacy of negative freedom supporting the neoliberal demand for ‘freedom from’ the state. This article defends the conception of positive freedom by calling on the neglected insights of the sociological tradition. I demonstrate how Marx, Durkheim and Simmel all understood freedom to be a socially conditioned phenomenon, with ‘freedom from’ being an idealist fiction (Marx), and a recipe for anomie (Durkheim) and loss of meaning (Simmel). I argue, however, that positive freedom as it was theorised by the classical sociologists must be distinguished from the more fashionable idea of individual self-realisation and self-identity, a notion equally susceptible to idealist constructions, and one increasingly targeted by Foucault-inspired critics. Instead I draw on Hannah Arendt and André Gorz to show how positive freedom should be theorised as a worldly, conflictual, and pre-eminently political affair.
The Shape of Things to Come? Reflections on the Ontological Turn in Anthropology
Authors: Sivado Akos
Published: March 2014

Martin Paleček and Mark Risjord have recently put forward a critical evaluation of the ontological turn in anthropological theory. According to this philosophically informed theory of ethnographic practice, certain insights of twentieth-century analytic philosophy should play a part in the methodological debates concerning anthropological fieldwork: most importantly, the denial of representationalism and the acceptance of the extended mind thesis. In this paper, I will attempt to evaluate the advantages and potential drawbacks of ontological anthropology—arguing that to become a true alternative to current social scientific thinking about methodology, it has to meet certain philosophical objections.
Realist Social Theory and Its Losing Battle with Concepts
Authors: Tsilipakos Leonidas
Published: March 2014

This article attempts to evidence the idea that progress in social theory is impeded by central theoretical procedures embodying a host of conceptual mistakes. The article focuses on realist theorizing, examining both early realist work on science and contemporary critical realism, and demonstrates how conceptual procedures employed therein lead to error and confusion. The standard use of these procedures entails, among other things, that social theoretical debates tend to remain irresolvable and that understanding of what it takes to demonstrate a theoretical scheme as superior remains poor. Alternative ways of proceeding are outlined, which lead to defensible social theoretical practice.
A New Foundation for the Social Sciences? Searle’s Misreading of Durkheim
Authors: Bjerre Jørn
Published: March 2014

The aim of John Searle’s philosophy of society is to provide a foundation for the social sciences. Arguing that the study of social reality needs to be based on a philosophy of language, Searle claims that sociology has little to offer since no sociologist ever took language seriously. Attacking Durkheim head-on, Searle not only claims that Durkheim’s project differs from his own but also that Durkheim’s sociology has serious shortcomings. Opposing Searle, this paper argues that Durkheim’s account of social reality is still viable and that Searle’s attack backfires on his own theoretical project.
Meningitis following spinal anaesthesia in an obstetric patient
Authors: Celik Mine , Kizilkaya Mehmet , Dostbil Aysenur , Dogan Nazim , Parlak Mehmet , Can Fatma Kesmez , Bayar Meral
Published: March 2014

Meningitis following lumbar puncture and spinal anaesthesia is a rare but serious complication. A 19-year-old woman was administered spinal anaesthesia at another centre prior to a Caesarean section. The following day she experienced headaches. On the fourth day, she started vomiting and having convulsions, and became agitated. Meningitis was diagnosed based on a clinical examination and analysis of a lumbar puncture sample. After 21 days of treatment, she was discharged.

Meningitis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a patient presenting with headaches following spinal anaesthesia. The causes of meningitis following spinal anaesthesia are debated, and it is difficult to distinguish between aseptic and bacterial meningitis. It should be compulsory to wear a face mask while performing a dural puncture.
Historical–psychological reflections on emotion and human subjectivity
Authors: Louw Johann , van Hoorn Willem
Published: March 2014

The changeability of human beings over time is the central theme of this article. Emotion in Western society, in particular grief, is selected to provide a case history of mental change over a long time period. Two historical examples are examined: from Greek Antiquity, a scene from Homer’s Iliad, and from around 90 ce, a consolation letter written by Plutarch to his wife. These are contrasted to modern-day psychological advice given to grieving spouses and parents. It is argued that these three examples show discontinuous changes in lived-through experience, and that the transition to the 20th century is tied to the development of the modern self. Finally, the article suggests that a concept (esthema) similar to Foucault’s episteme is in operation here, which can be used to characterise the differences in ‘emotion’ over the three time periods.
The future of missiology as a discipline: a view from the non-Western world
Authors: Hanciles Jehu J.
Published: March 2014

This article reproduces material originally presented in a plenary address at the annual meeting of the America Society of Missiology (in June, 2013) organized around the theme “The Future of Missiology.” It examines the prospects and predicaments that confront the discipline of missiology in non-Western contexts. This assessment revolves around three broad reflections. First, that while non-Western theological production and missiological thinking has shown tremendous growth in recent decades, captivity to Western training and intellectual traditions remains a major challenge. Second, that one of the most pressing concerns confronting non-Western missiological education and scholarship is the need for institutional models and programmatic approaches that reflect non-Western realities. In this regard, the article argues that in order to be effective and sustained, missiological education in non-Western contexts needs to be more integrative—that is, less dependent on the isolationist-specialist model prevalent in the West—and make greater use of the methodologies and analytical tools of social-scientific disciplines like the sociology of religion. Third, that for a reconceptualization of what “missions” connotes and represents it is vital for churches in the non-Western world to address key issues of ministry and witness. It is argued that many of the models and perceptions of mission inherited from the Western experience are no longer helpful or warranted and that widely used constructs such as “reverse missions” inhibit the conceptual reorientation needed to equip the church for a new era of missionary engagement.
Reputation-Seeking by a Government Agency in Europe
Authors: Baekkeskov Erik
Published: March 2014

Reputation-seeking can explain some decisions of U.S. federal agencies. However, it has remained unclear whether it could be used in the European context where agencies have proliferated in national and regional governance in the past few decades. This article shows that reputation-seeking can occur at autonomous agencies in the European context. A unique participant-observational study of an international public health agency acting in response to the 2009 H1N1 “swine” influenza pandemic provides bases for this conclusion. It adds empirical support for the proposition using real-time observations of and in-depth interviews on the agency’s decision-making processes.
Simulation of pollution transport in buildings: the importance of taking into account dynamic thermal effects
Authors: Taylor Jonathon , Shrubsole Clive , Biddulph Phillip , Jones Benjamin , Das Payel , Davies Michael
Published: March 2014

The recent introduction of the Generic Contaminant Model in EnergyPlus allows for the integrated modelling of multizone contaminant and dynamic thermal behaviour within a single simulation package. This article demonstrates how dynamic thermal simulation can modify pollutant transport within a building. PM2.5 infiltration from the external to internal environment under dynamic thermal conditions is compared in CONTAM, EnergyPlus 8.0, and Polluto, an in-house pollutant transport model developed in EnergyPlus 3.1. The influence of internal temperature on indoor PM2.5 levels is investigated by comparing results from standard CONTAM simulations and dynamic thermal EnergyPlus 8 simulations. Circumstances where the predictions of such models can diverge are identified.

Practical application:This technical note compares the performance of a new indoor air quality model in EnergyPlus, an EnergyPlus in-house model (Polluto), and an established model (CONTAM). The work then compares the results of indoor air quality models under static and dynamic internal temperature conditions, and demonstrates how predicted indoor pollution levels may deviate significantly if an inappropriate indoor temperature is used. Practically, the work provides confidence in the new models, as well as demonstrating the importance of having a good understanding of the thermal behaviour of a building when modelling indoor air quality.
Weapons in Schools and Zero-Tolerance Policies
Authors: Losinski Mickey , Katsiyannis Antonis , Ryan Joseph , Baughan Cynthia
Published: March 2014

Horrific events such as the fatal shooting of three high school students in Chardon, Ohio, in the winter of 2012 places tremendous pressure on state and local agencies to ensure that schools provide a safe and conducive learning environment for all students. To help curb school violence, schools have adopted zero-tolerance policies, which often call for an “automatic” punishment and treat offenses with uniform severity regardless of intent, circumstances, or student’s record. This article addresses the issues associated with zero-tolerance policies by examining relevant legislative mandates and case law and provides recommendations for improved practice.
Sensitivity Plots for Confounder Bias in the Single Mediator Model
Authors: Cox Matthew G. , Kisbu-Sakarya Yasemin , Miočević Milica , MacKinnon David P.
Published: March 2014

Background:

Causal inference continues to be a critical aspect of evaluation research. Recent research in causal inference for statistical mediation has focused on addressing the sequential ignorability assumption; specifically, that there is no confounding between the mediator and the outcome variable.

Objectives:

This article compares and contrasts three different methods for assessing sensitivity to confounding and describes the graphical depiction of these methods.

Design:

Two types of data were used to fully examine the plots for sensitivity analysis. The first type was generated data from a single mediator model with a confounder influencing both the mediator and the outcome variable. The second was data from an actual intervention study. With both types of data, situations are examined where confounding has a large effect and a small effect.

Subjects:

The nonsimulated data were from a large intervention study to decrease intentions to use steroids among high school football players. We demonstrate one situation where confounding is likely and another situation where confounding is unlikely.

Conclusions:

We discuss how these methods could be implemented in future mediation studies as well as the limitations and future directions for these methods.
Water Uptake Performance of Hygroscopic Heat and Moisture Exchangers after 24‐Hour Tracheostoma Application
Authors: van den Boer Cindy , Vas Nunes Jonathan H. , Muller Sara H. , van der Noort Vincent , van den Brekel Michiel W. M. , Hilgers Frans J. M.
Published: March 2014

Objective

After total laryngectomy, patients suffer from pulmonary complaints due to the shortcut of the upper airways that results in decreased warming and humidification of inspired air. Laryngectomized patients are advised to use a heat and moisture exchanger (HME) to optimize the inspired air. According to manufacturers’ guidelines, these medical devices should be replaced every 24 hours. The aim of this study is to determine whether HMEs still function after 24‐hour tracheostoma application.

Study Design

Assessment of residual water uptake capacity of used HMEs by measuring the difference between wet and dry core weight.

Setting

Tertiary comprehensive cancer center.

Subjects and Methods

Three hygroscopic HME types were tested after use by laryngectomized patients in long‐term follow‐up. Water uptake of 41 used devices (including 10 prematurely replaced devices) was compared with that of control (unused) devices of the same type and with a control device with a relatively low performance.

Results

After 24 hours, the mean water uptake of the 3 device types had decreased compared with that of the control devices. For only one type was this difference significant. None of the used HMEs had a water uptake lower than that of the low‐performing control device.

Conclusion

The water uptake capacity of hygroscopic HEMs is clinically acceptable although no longer optimal after 24‐hour tracheostoma application. From a functional point of view, the guideline for daily device replacement is therefore justified.
Effects of Endoscopic Sinus Surgery and Nasal Surgery in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Yalamanchali Sreeya , Cipta Stephanie , Waxman Jonathan , Pott Thomas , Joseph Ninos , Friedman Michael
Published: April 2014

Objectives

To evaluate the impact of combined nasal surgery and endoscopic sinus surgery on the objective measurements of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and sleep architecture by comparing polysomnographic data before and after combined surgery in patients with OSA.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

A single clinical site.

Subjects and Methods

Patients with OSA and chronic rhinosinusitis who underwent combined nasal surgery and endoscopic sinus surgery and preoperative and postoperative polysomnography were identified. Patient charts were reviewed and preoperative and postoperative body mass index, apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI), mean and minimum oxygen saturation, sleep efficiency, and sleep staging were compared.

Results

Fifty‐six patients were included in our study. Patients were divided into 3 groups on the basis of the severity of OSA: those with mild OSA (n = 9), those with moderate OSA (n = 23), and those with severe OSA (n = 24). After combined nasal and sinus surgery, the mean AHI significantly decreased from 33.5 ± 22.0 to 29.4 ± 20.8 (P =. 009) in our overall population. Specifically, AHI improved significantly in patients with moderate OSA (from 22.3 ± 4.8 to 20.7 ± 8.2, P =. 023) and severe OSA (from 52.3 ± 21.4 to 43.6 ± 23.9, P =. 034), while patients with mild OSA did not have significant changes in AHI. Successful surgical procedures were achieved in only 2 of 56 patients.

Conclusion

Although combined nasal and sinus surgery may slightly improve AHI in a certain group of patients, it does not cure OSA or have a significant clinical impact.
Tricuspid annuloplasty with the MC3 ring and septal plication technique
Authors: Isomura Tadashi , Hirota Masanori , Hoshino Joji , Fukada Yasuhisa , Kondo Taichi , Takahashi Yu
Published: March 2014

Background

Functional tricuspid regurgitation is caused by annular dilation mainly in the posterior annulus. However, ring annuloplasty does not always prevent the recurrence of tricuspid regurgitation due to dilation of the septal annulus. We developed a septal plication technique with a 3-dimensional MC3 ring.

Methods

Between 2006 and 2011, 76 patients (male/female 30/46; mean age 68 ± 11 years) with functional tricuspid regurgitation received tricuspid ring annuloplasty. After placement of the annular sutures, the 3 commissural ring portions were fixed on the equivalent commissures to plicate the anterior and posterior annulus. The end of the septal ring portion was fixed at the optimal annular position to obtain minimal tricuspid regurgitation. All patients were followed-up for a mean of 47 ± 18 months; the longest duration was 79 months.

Results

Although there was no operative death, one patient died of sepsis during hospitalization (hospital mortality 1.3%). After implantation of the MC3 ring (mean size 31.0 ± 3.3 mm), additional edge-to-edge sutures were required for minor leakage in 5 (7%) patients. The degree of tricuspid regurgitation was significantly reduced at discharge (0.5 ± 0.6) and midterm (0.6 ± 0.6) compared to 2.5 ± 0.7 before the operation ( p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

The surgical durability of the MC3 ring was satisfactory at early and midterm follow-up, suggesting that correct plication of the septal annulus is effective for tricuspid ring annuloplasty with a 3-dimensional MC3 ring.