bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Case Report of Herpetic Whitlow with Positive Kanavel’s Cardinal Signs: A Diagnostic and Treatment Difficulty
Authors: Brkljac Milos , Bitar Samer , Naqui Zafar
Published: November 2014

Herpetic whitlow is an acute viral infection of the hand caused by either herpes simplex virus (HSV) 1 or 2. Its characteristic findings are significant pain and erythema with overlying nonpurulent vesicles. The differential diagnosis includes flexor tenosynovitis. We present a case of recurrent infection of the middle finger in an immunocompetent 19-year-old girl. Multiple painful pustules with tracking cellulitis were partially treated by oral antibiotics. A recurrence with positive Kanavel’s signs suggested flexor tenosynovitis at seven months. Her symptoms improved transiently following emergent surgical open flexor sheath exploration and washout however, she required two further washouts; at eleven and thirteen months to improve symptoms. Viral cultures were obtained from the third washout as HSV infection was disclosed from further history taking. These were positive for HSV2. Treatment with acyclovir at thirteen months after presentation led to a complete resolution of her symptoms with no further recurrences to date. This rare case highlights the similarity in presentation between flexor sheath infection and herpetic whitlow which can lead to diagnostic confusion and mismanagement. We emphasise the importance of careful past medical history taking as well as considering herpetic whitlow as a differential diagnosis despite the presence of strongly positive Kanavel’s signs.
A Secure Online Key Establishment Scheme for Mobile Heterogeneous Sensor Networks
Authors: Khan Sarmad Ullah , Pastrone Claudio , Lavagno Luciano , Spirito Maurizio A.
Published: November 2014

Advancement in wireless sensor network (WSN) technology makes it more attractive technology to be adopted in real world applications including home and industrial automation and e-health or infrastructure monitoring. However the mobility consideration in these applications makes the security requirements an essential and challenging task. To make the communication secure and the network robust against attacks, a proper key management scheme should be used. This paper presents a secure online key establishment and authentication scheme for mobility supported heterogeneous sensor networks. The performance evaluation of the proposed scheme is done using OMNET++ simulator while AVISPA tool is used to validate the security of the proposed scheme. It is clear from the obtained results that the proposed scheme provides better network connectivity at a low cost of memory occupation and communication overhead during the authentication and key establishment phases while improving its network resilience against attacks.
Research on Assessment Methods for Urban Public Transport Development in China
Authors: Zou Linghong , Dai Hongna , Yao Enjian , Jiang Tian , Guo Hongwei
Published: November 2014

In recent years, with the rapid increase in urban population, the urban travel demands in Chinese cities have been increasing dramatically. As a result, developing comprehensive urban transport systems becomes an inevitable choice to meet the growing urban travel demands. In urban transport systems, public transport plays the leading role to promote sustainable urban development. This paper aims to establish an assessment index system for the development level of urban public transport consisting of a target layer, a criterion layer, and an index layer. Review on existing literature shows that methods used in evaluating urban public transport structure are dominantly qualitative. To overcome this shortcoming, fuzzy mathematics method is used for describing qualitative issues quantitatively, and AHP (analytic hierarchy process) is used to quantify expert’s subjective judgment. The assessment model is established based on the fuzzy AHP. The weight of each index is determined through the AHP and the degree of membership of each index through the fuzzy assessment method to obtain the fuzzy synthetic assessment matrix. Finally, a case study is conducted to verify the rationality and practicability of the assessment system and the proposed assessment method.
ISG15 Is a Critical Microenvironmental Factor for Pancreatic Cancer Stem Cells
Authors: Sainz Bruno , Martín Beatriz , Tatari Marianthi , Heeschen Christopher , Guerra Susana
Published: November 2014

Cancer stem cells (CSC) are thought to play a major role in the development and metastatic progression of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), one of the deadliest solid tumors. Likewise, the tumor microenvironment contributes critical support in this setting, including from tumor stromal cells and tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) that contribute structural and paracrine-mediated supports, respectively. Here, we show that TAMs secrete the IFN-stimulated factor ISG15, which enhances CSC phenotypes in PDAC in vitro and in vivo. ISG15 was preferentially and highly expressed by TAM present in primary PDAC tumors resected from patients. ISG15 was secreted by macrophages in response to secretion of IFNβ by CSC, thereby reinforcing CSC self-renewal, invasive capacity, and tumorigenic potential. Overall, our work demonstrates that ISG15 is a previously unrecognized support factor for CSC in the PDAC microenvironment with a key role in pathogenesis and progression. Cancer Res; 74(24); 7309–20. ©2014 AACR.
Examination of the Influence of Leptin and Acute Metabolic Challenge on RFRP-3 Neurons of Mice in Development and Adulthood
Authors: Poling Matthew C. , Shieh Morris P. , Munaganuru Nagambika , Luo Elena , Kauffman Alexander S.
Published: November 2014

Background: The neuropeptide RFamide-related peptide-3 (RFRP-3; mammalian ortholog to gonadotropin-inhibiting hormone) can inhibit luteinizing hormone (LH) release and increases feeding, but the regulation and development of RFRP-3 neurons remains poorly characterized, especially in mice. Methods and Results: We first confirmed that peripheral injections of murine RFRP-3 peptide could markedly suppress LH secretion in adult mice, as in other species. Second, given RFRP-3's reported orexigenic properties, we performed double-label in situ hybridization for metabolic genes in Rfrp neurons of mice. While Rfrp neurons did not readily coexpress neuropeptide Y, thyrotropin-releasing hormone, or MC4R, a small subset of Rfrp neurons did express the leptin receptor in both sexes. Surprisingly, we identified no changes in Rfrp expression or neuronal activation in adult mice after acute fasting. However, we determined that Rfrp mRNA levels in the dorsal-medial nucleus were significantly reduced in adult obese (Ob) mice of both sexes. Given the lower Rfrp levels observed in adult Ob mice, we asked whether leptin might also regulate RFRP-3 neuron development. Rfrp gene expression changed markedly over juvenile development, correlating with the timing of the juvenile ‘leptin surge' known to govern hypothalamic feeding circuit development. However, the dramatic developmental changes in juvenile Rfrp expression did not appear to be leptin driven, as the pattern and timing of Rfrp neuron development were unaltered in Ob juveniles. Conclusion: Leptin status modulates RFRP-3 expression in adulthood, but is not required for normal development of the RFRP-3 system. Leptin's regulation of adult RFRP-3 neurons likely occurs primarily via indirect signaling, and may be secondary to obesity, as only a small subset of RFRP-3 neurons express the long form of the leptin receptor (LepRb).
Incidence, Mortality, and Sex Differences of Non‐Valvular Atrial Fibrillation: A Population‐Based Study
Authors: Renoux Christel , Patenaude Valérie , Suissa Samy
Published: November 2014

Background

It is unclear whether the incidence of non‐valvular atrial fibrillation (
NVAF
) has been increasing over time. We aimed to provide contemporary estimates of the incidence and case‐fatality of
NVAF
in a well‐defined population.

Methods and Results

We used the computerized databases of the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (
RAMQ
), responsible for administering the universal health care services for all its residents, to identify a population‐based cohort of 243 800 patients with an incident diagnosis of
NVAF
during 2000–2009. The incidence rate of
NVAF
, age‐ and sex‐standardized to the 2004 population of Québec, was 32.4 (95% confidence interval, 32.3 to 32.5) per 10 000 per year. There was no evidence of an increasing incidence of
NVAF
during the 10‐year study period. The incidence rate was higher in men compared with women (age‐adjusted incidence rate ratio 1.51; 95%
CI
1.50 to 1.52). The 30‐day case‐fatality was 9.2% (95%
CI
9.0 to 9.3), higher for men (10.0%; 95%
CI
9.8 to 10.1) than women (8.5; 95%
CI
8.3 to 8.6), and increasing with age, ranging from around 1% for cases aged <40 years to around 16% for cases aged ≥80.

Conclusion

Current incidence estimates illustrate the significant burden of
NVAF
. Mortality remains particularly high around the time of diagnosis, and case‐fatality increases with age, being systematically higher in men than women.
Coming of Age in the Solitude of the Lost Land: Randa Jarrar’s A Map of Home
Authors: Cariello Marta
Published: November 2014

This contribution analyzes Palestinian-American Randa Jarrar’s semi-autobiographical novelA Map of Home(2008). The novel is read through various, overlapping lenses: the use of the semi-autobiographical form and the related challenge, brought about by the woman migrant writer, to the genre itself of autobiography and its relevance to individual and collective identity formation, the deconstruction of fixed, universal subjectivity and the challenge that exile narratives bring to the narration of nations, the specific positionality of the author that brings into play not only Arab and Arab-American identity construction but more specifically the narration of the Palestinian people. Finally, aMap of Homeappears as a site for Jarrar to produce a specific articulation of an Arab, Arab-American and Palestinian self through a female genealogy of agency.
Play of Mirrors in the Border. Najat El Hachmi’s Subjectivity Formation in Jo també sóc catalana
Authors: Pomar-Amer Miquel
Published: November 2014

This contribution proposes a discussion of Najat El Hachmi’s autobiographical accountJo també sóc catalana(2004) as an enunciatory space from which she explores and constitutes her subjectivity. Considering her interaction with different interpellations from the dominant discourse, the notion of liminality will be tackled under what she calls ‘pensament de frontera’ (border thinking). Thus, the border works both as a lens to look at the textual representation and as a reification of the enunciatory position she creates. I propose to interpret this position as a play of mirrors which stresses similarity over difference, blurring the opposition ‘us’ versus ‘them’. Nonetheless, this action is not riskfree and the perils of an abyss of uncertainty and failed expectations threaten this positivist stance. Thus, this contribution aims to reflect on the negotiations that hegemonic discourses demand from El Hachmi and how she represents them in her first work.
Mind the Gap in the gairs: The Role of Other Instruments in losc Regime Implementation in the Offshore Energy Sector
Authors: Redgwell Catherine
Published: November 2014

While the international legal framework for offshore energy activities is anchored in the 1982 Law of the Sea Convention (losc), it “is complemented by an array of relevant instruments and measures at the global, regional and national levels”. This article examines the role of generally accepted international rules and standards (gairs) in the implementation of the losc in the offshore energy sector, with particular reference to the decommissioning of offshore installations, marine pollution from continental shelf exploration and exploitation, submarine cables and pipelines, and shipping. This analysis reveals that this role has been one of facilitating, strengthening and updating the losc in the light of legal and technical developments since its conclusion—a process of normative reinforcement rather than normative conflict. Yet, as highlighted in the conclusion, significant gaps nonetheless remain in the regulation of offshore energy activities.
A new species of Deguelia (Leguminosae, Papilionoideae) from the Brazilian Amazon Basin
Authors: Camargo Rodrigo Augusto , TOZZI ANA MARIA G. A.
Published: November 2014

Deguelia decorticans, a new lianescent species of Leguminosae from the Brazilian Amazon, is here described and illustrated. The new species has flowers which resemble those of Deguelia duckeana and Deguelia rariflora and it might be closely related to them, probably forming a species complex. However, this new species can be easily distinguished by some morphological and reproductive characteristics.
First record of Lindernia dubia (Linderniaceae) in India and reduction of Lindernia nelliyampathiensis as one of its synonyms
Authors: PRASAD MANGAVAYAL GOVINDAN , SUNOJKUMA PURAYIDATHKANDY
Published: November 2014

Lindernia dubia is reported for the first time from India. Its description, illustration, distribution and habitat notes are provided. The taxonomic identity of Lindernia nelliyampathiensis, a recently described new species from India is discussed. Since it is closely matching with L. dubia, here we synonymize L. nelliyampathiensis under L. dubia.
Sabellaria and Lygdamis (Polychaeta: Sabellariidae) from reefs off northeastern Brazil including a new species of Sabellaria
Authors: SANTOS ANDRÉ SOUZA DOS , BRASIL ANA CLAUDIA DOS SANTOS , CHRISTOFFERSEN Martin LINDSEY
Published: November 2014

Members of the polychaete taxon Sabellariidae Johnston, 1865 are known to live in sand tubes cemented onto rocky substrata, mollusk shells, or sea grasses. Of 37 known Sabellaria species, only nine were reported for the Brazilian coast, in all cases being associated with aggregates of other species. The genus is considered cosmopolitan. Herein we describe for the first time an aggregate of sabellariids composed by Sabellaria nanella and Sabellaria wilsoni. In addition, we describe a new species of Sabellaria. Lygdamis are represented by solitary species. None of the 17 known species were previously reported from the southwestern Atlantic Ocean. We report Lygdamis rayrobertsi for the first time in the South Atlantic.
A new species of Forcipomyia Meigen (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) described with immature stages from India
Authors: PAUL NILOTPOL , HARSHA RUPA , MAZUMDAR ABHIJIT
Published: November 2014

Life stages of Forcipomyia parasecuris sp. n. is described, illustrated and photomicrograph based on examination with scanning electron microscope and binocular microscope. The larvae were collected from rotting banana stump of a banana garden at lower Gangetic plain area in India. Absence of ocular sensillum and campaniform sensillum in ocular area of pupa, a synapomorphic character of this proposed new species exhibits its uniqueness in genus Forcipomyia. This is also the first life stage of any Forcipomyia described from India.
The 2013 Rim Fire: Implications for Predicting Extreme Fire Spread, Pyroconvection, and Smoke Emissions
Authors: Peterson David A. , Hyer Edward J. , Campbell James R. , Fromm Michael D. , Hair Johnathan W. , Butler Carolyn F. , Fenn Marta A.
Published: November 2014

The 2013 Rim Fire, which burned over 104,000 ha, was one of the most severe fire events in California’s history, in terms of its rapid growth, intensity, overall size, and persistent smoke plume. At least two large pyrocumulonimbus (pyroCb) events were observed, allowing smoke particles to extend through the upper troposphere over a large portion of the Pacific Northwest. However, the most extreme fire spread was observed on days without pyroCb activity or significant regional convection. A diverse archive of ground, airborne, and satellite data collected during the Rim Fire provides a unique opportunity to examine the conditions required for both extreme spread events and pyroCb development. Results highlight the importance of upper-level and nocturnal meteorology, as well as the limitations of traditional fire weather indices. The Rim Fire dataset also allows for a detailed examination of conflicting hypotheses surrounding the primary source of moisture during pyroCb development. All pyroCbs were associated with conditions very similar to those that produce dry thunderstorms. The current suite of automated forecasting applications predict only general trends in fire behavior, and specifically do not predict 1) extreme fire spread events and 2) injection of smoke to high altitudes. While these two exceptions are related, analysis of the Rim Fire shows that they are not predicted by the same set of conditions and variables. The combination of numerical weather prediction data and satellite observations exhibits great potential for improving automated regional-scale forecasts of fire behavior and smoke emissions.
Calculation and Evaluation of an Air-Freezing Index for the 1981–2010 Climate Normals Period in the Coterminous United States
Authors: Bilotta Rocky , Bell Jesse E. , Shepherd Ethan , Arguez Anthony
Published: November 2014

The air-freezing index (AFI) is a common metric for determining the freezing severity of the winter season and estimating frost depth for midlatitude regions, which is useful for determining the depth of shallow foundation construction. AFI values represent the seasonal magnitude and duration of below-freezing air temperature. Departures of the daily mean temperature above or below 0°C (32°F) are accumulated over each August–July cold season; the seasonal AFI value is defined as the difference between the highest and lowest extrema points. Return periods are computed using generalized extreme value distribution analysis. This research replaces the methodology used by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to calculate AFI return periods for the 1951–80 time period, applying the new methodology to the 1981–2010 climate normals period. Seasonal AFI values and return period values were calculated for 5600 stations across the coterminous United States (CONUS), and the results were validated using U.S. Climate Reference Network temperature data. Return period values are typically 14%–18% lower across CONUS during 1981–2010 versus a recomputation of 1951–80 return periods with the new methodology. For the 100-yr (2 yr) return periods, about 59% (83%) of stations show a decrease of more than 10% in the more recent period, whereas 21% (2%) show an increase of more than 10%, indicating a net reduction in winter severity that is consistent with observed climate change.
A Parameterization of Sticking Efficiency for Collisions of Snow and Graupel with Ice Crystals: Theory and Comparison with Observations*
Authors: Phillips Vaughan T. J. , Formenton Marco , Bansemer Aaron , Kudzotsa Innocent , Lienert Barry
Published: November 2014

A new parameterization of sticking efficiency for aggregation of ice crystals onto snow and graupel is presented. This parameter plays a crucial role for the formation of ice precipitation and for electrification processes. The parameterization is intended to be used in atmospheric models simulating the aggregation of ice particles in glaciated clouds. It should improve the ability to forecast snow.

Based on experimental results and general considerations of collision processes, dependencies of the sticking efficiency on temperature, surface area, and collision kinetic energy of impacting particles are derived. The parameters have been estimated from some laboratory observations by simulating the experiments and minimizing the squares of the errors of the prediction of observed quantities. The predictions from the new scheme are compared with other available laboratory and field observations. The comparisons show that the parameterization is able to reproduce the thermal behavior of sticking efficiency, observed in published laboratory studies, with a peak around −15°C corresponding to dendritic vapor growth of ice.

Finally, a new theory of sticking efficiency is proposed. It explains the empirically derived parameterization in terms of a probability distribution of the work that would be required to separate two contacting particles colliding in all possible ways among many otherwise identical collisions of the same pair with a given initial collision kinetic energy. For each collision, if this work done would exceed the initial collision kinetic energy, then there is no separation after impact. The probability of that occurring equals the sticking efficiency.
On the Interpretation of EOF Analysis of ENSO, Atmospheric Kelvin Waves, and the MJO
Authors: Roundy Paul E.
Published: November 2014

Empirical orthogonal function (EOF) analysis is frequently applied to derive patterns and indexes used to identify and track weather and climate modes as expressed in state variables or proxies of convection. Individual EOFs or pairs of EOFs are often taken to be a complete description of the phenomenon they are intended to index. At the same time, in the absence of projection of the phenomenon onto multiple EOFs yielding multiple similar eigenvalues, each EOF is often assumed to represent a physically independent phenomenon. This project analyzed the leading EOFs of the earth’s skin temperature on the equator and outgoing longwave radiation (OLR) anomalies filtered for atmospheric equatorial Kelvin waves. Results show that the leading two EOFs of the skin temperature data—including east Pacific El Niño and El Niño Modoki—frequently evolve as a quadrature pair during El Niño events, even though the first EOF explains roughly 6 times as much variance as the second. They together diagnose the longitude of the SST anomaly maximum, and their linear combination frequently shows eastward or westward propagation. Analysis of the filtered OLR anomalies shows that the first six EOFs each represent Kelvin wave signals, with the first, second, and third pairs representing Kelvin waves characterized by zonal wavenumbers 2, 3, and 4, respectively. This result demonstrates that if a phenomenon occurs across a range of spatial scales, it is described by multiple EOFs at different scales. A similar analysis demonstrates that the Madden–Julian oscillation probably exhibits spread across a range of spatial scales that would also require multiple EOFs for full characterization.
International Education and Service Learning
Authors: Smith Michaela D. M. , Jennings Len , Lakhan Sharada
Published: November 2014

The field of counseling psychology continues to see a perpetual underutilization of mental health resources by many cultural groups, including international populations. Underutilization of services is due, in part, to psychologists’ deficiency in cultural and international competency. International education—an experiential learning technique that involves cultural contact—has been proposed as an alternative method for training students to work effectively cross-culturally. The current article examines the effects of service learning embedded in a study abroad diversity course in Singapore. The course was designed for graduate counseling psychology students as an experiential vehicle for developing cultural competency and awareness of social justice issues through direct contact with diverse groups. Qualitative data are reviewed, and implications for training, such as integration of cross-cultural and social justice issues in counseling training programs, are discussed.
The Effects of Work Alienation and Policy Alienation on Behavior of Public Employees
Authors: Tummers Lars , Bekkers Victor , van Thiel Sandra , Steijn Bram
Published: November 2014

Public employees are confronted with various pressures, such as increased work demands and the need to implement controversial policies. This study uses work alienation and policy alienation models to analyze work and policy pressures. Based on a survey of 790 respondents, it was first found that work alienation results in less work effort and more intention to leave. Second, policy alienation negatively affects behavioral support for a policy and the intention to implement it. These results suggest that work alienation and policy alienation have different—but both important—effects on (intended) behavior on the job.
French policy for managing the post-accident phase of a nuclear accident
Authors: Gallay F. , Godet J.L. , Niel J.C.
Published: November 2014

In 2005, at the request of the French Government, the Nuclear Safety Authority (ASN) established a Steering Committee for the Management of the Post-Accident Phase of a Nuclear Accident or a Radiological Emergency, with the objective of establishing a policy framework. Under the supervision of ASN, this Committee, involving several tens of experts from different backgrounds (e.g. relevant ministerial offices, expert agencies, local information commissions around nuclear installations, non-governmental organisations, elected officials, licensees, and international experts), developed a number of recommendations over a 7-year period. First published in November 2012, these recommendations cover the immediate post-emergency situation, and the transition and longer-term periods of the post-accident phase in the case of medium-scale nuclear accidents causing short-term radioactive release (less than 24 h) that might occur at French nuclear facilities. They also apply to actions to be undertaken in the event of accidents during the transportation of radioactive materials. These recommendations are an important first step in preparation for the management of a post-accident situation in France in the case of a nuclear accident.
What’s Age Got to Do With It? On the Critical Analysis of Age and Organizations
Authors: Thomas Robyn , Hardy Cynthia , Cutcher Leanne , Ainsworth Susan
Published: November 2014

Age, as an embodied identity and as an organizing principle, has received scant attention in organization studies. There is a lack of critical appreciation of how age plays out in organizational settings, the material and discursive dynamics of age practices, how age discourses impact on the body, and how age and ageing intersect with other identity categories. This is curious since age works as a master signifier in contemporary society and is something that affects us all. In this introductory essay, we show how the papers in this special issue redress this lacuna by enhancing and challenging what we know about age and organizations. We also set out an agenda for stimulating research conversations to bring an age-sensitive lens to organizational analysis. We structure our analysis around two focal points: age as an embodied identity, and the symbolic meanings of age within organizing practices. In doing so, we aim to provide a catalyst not only for research on age in organizations but also about the aged nature of organizing.
Evaluating knowledge resources in R&D organizations in China
Authors: Hu Yaoguang , Li Jingwen , Wen Jingqian , Yan Yan
Published: November 2014

This paper aimed to measure the value of knowledge resources and examine the factors influencing separate knowledge resource evaluation in R&D organizations. To accomplish these goals, a knowledge resource evaluation model was developed, using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) and Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) methods, based on the results of 160 respondents from several research institutions in China. A two-stage research framework was also proposed. The analytical results demonstrated that labor value, technology value and utilization value have positive and significant relationships with the value of knowledge resources. The study also measured the weights of the evaluation criteria, sub-criteria, and the score of the value of knowledge resources using the developed model. The findings will facilitate the sharing or transfer of knowledge resources among organizations more effectively and will help knowledge workers mobilize and manage their knowledge resources more effectively in their organizations.
Internalized Sexualization and Its Relation to Sexualized Appearance, Body Surveillance, and Body Shame Among Early Adolescent Girls
Authors: McKenney Sarah J. , Bigler Rebecca S.
Published: November 2014

Sexually objectifying messages about girls and women are common in U.S. popular culture. As a consequence of exposure to such messages, girls may develop “internalized sexualization,” or internalization of the belief that sexual attractiveness to males is an important aspect of their identity. We hypothesized that internalized sexualization is associated with behavioral and psychological consequences, including sexualized clothing use, body surveillance, and body shame. In two studies of early adolescent girls (total N = 330, age range = 10-15), we found that girls with higher levels of internalized sexualization wear more sexualized clothing (Study 1) and show higher levels of body surveillance and body shame (Study 2) than girls with lower levels of internalized sexualization.
Object-based extraction of bark beetle (Ips typographus L.) infestations using multi-date LANDSAT and SPOT satellite imagery
Authors: Latifi Hooman , Fassnacht Fabian E. , Schumann Bastian , Dech Stefan
Published: November 2014

As major agents of biological disturbances, bark beetle infestations have been reported to account for a large portion of damage that occur in European forest stands. As a result, accurate spatiotemporal characterization of the vulnerable areas is crucial for subsequent post-infestation management. Remote sensing-assisted mapping of bark beetle-induced forest mortality has been an important research focus during the last decade. Due to the occurrence of mostly small- to medium-scale infestation patches in European stands, high-resolution optical data is commonly applied for mapping mortality. Despite this, we hypothesize the widely available satellite products to be potentially advantageous due to their multitemporal availability and reasonable costs. Here, we combined multi-date LANDSAT and SPOT scenes across an 11-year time span in which various epidemic and non-epidemic infestations occurred within the Bavarian Forest National Park in Germany. The aim was to map temporally adjacent mortality classes. The spectral, geometric and textural metrics extracted from the segmented imagery were applied to perform a full object-based classification, for which a digital terrain model was additionally employed. A number of potentially influential factors were also explored, including the spatial aggregation of image segments and the spatial enhancement of the multispectral imagery. The analysis resulted in a nearly perfect separation of non-infested and dead trees, while different levels of confusion were observed when classifying the transitional mortality classes. While the pan-sharpening of selected image scenes contributed to the stability of mapping results for non-infested and dead trees, no explicit trend was observed when aggregating small image segments prior to classification. Furthermore, combining the metrics from image objects and the digital terrain model suggested an obviously improved classification compared to the previously achieved pixel-based results across the same study site. In this paper, we thoroughly discuss the practical aspects of applying object-based image processing for monitoring bark beetle-induced forest mortality.
Oculomotor nerve tumors masquerading as recurrent painful ophthalmoplegic neuropathy: Report of two cases and review of the literature
Authors: Kim Ryul , Kim Jae-Hyoung , Kim Eunhee , Yang Hee-Kyung , Hwang Jeong-Min , Kim Ji-Soo
Published: November 2014

Background

In recurrent painful ophthalmoplegic neuropathy (RPON) that was previously termed as ophthalmoplegic migraine, enhancement of the ocular motor cranial nerves could be seen in the cisternal segment during the acute phase. However, various tumors involving the oculomotor nerve may mimic RPON.

Methods

We report two patients with MRI findings of oculomotor nerve schwannoma who initially presented with RPON, and found through the literature review five more patients with oculomotor nerve tumors that masqueraded as RPON.

Results

All patients showed an involvement of the oculomotor nerve. The radiological or pathological diagnosis included schwannoma in five, venous angioma in one, and neuromuscular harmatoma in another one. MRIs with gadolinium documented an enhancing nodule involving the cisternal portion of the oculomotor nerve in six of them, which was also observed on follow-up MRIs without an interval change.

Conclusions

It should be recognized that an incomplete recovery may occur during future attacks in patients with otherwise uncomplicated RPON. Follow-up MRIs are required to detect tumors involving the ocular motor cranial nerves, especially in patients with suspected RPON when the recovery is incomplete.
Circadian Clock Function in the Mammalian Ovary
Authors: Sellix Michael T.
Published: November 2014

Rhythmic events in the female reproductive system depend on the coordinated and synchronized activity of multiple neuroendocrine and endocrine tissues. This coordination is facilitated by the timing of gene expression and cellular physiology at each level of the hypothalamo-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis, including the basal hypothalamus and forebrain, the pituitary gland, and the ovary. Central to this pathway is the primary circadian pacemaker in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) that, through its myriad outputs, provides a temporal framework for gonadotropin release and ovulation. The heart of the timing system, a transcription-based oscillator, imparts SCN pacemaker cells and a company of peripheral tissues with the capacity for daily oscillations of gene expression and cellular physiology. Although the SCN sits comfortably at the helm, peripheral oscillators (such as the ovary) have undefined but potentially critical roles. Each cell type of the ovary, including theca cells, granulosa cells, and oocytes, harbor a molecular clock implicated in the processes of follicular growth, steroid hormone synthesis, and ovulation. The ovarian clock is influenced by the reproductive cycle and diseases that perturb the cycle and/or follicular growth can disrupt the timing of clock gene expression in the ovary. Chronodisruption is known to negatively affect reproductive function and fertility in both rodent models and women exposed to shiftwork schedules. Thus, influencing clock function in the HPO axis with chronobiotics may represent a novel avenue for the treatment of common fertility disorders, particularly those resulting from chronic circadian disruption.
Amphiphilic polysaccharide nanocarriers with antioxidant properties
Authors: Bossio Ornella , Gómez-Mascaraque Laura G , Fernández-Gutiérrez Mar , Vázquez-Lasa Blanca , Román Julio San
Published: November 2014

The development of self-assembled nanocarriers for the encapsulation of hydrophobic antioxidants is of growing interest. Self-assembled amphiphilic chitosan conjugate nanocarriers that stabilize antioxidants were prepared based on the concept that both the nanocarrier and the antioxidant bear similar hydrophobic moieties able to establish hydrophobic interactions. This work describes the preparation and characterization of a system consisting of a palmitoyl chitosan conjugate and retinyl palmitate. Palmitic acid was coupled to chitosan using a carbodiimide-mediated coupling reaction, and two different palmitoyl chitosan conjugates were obtained by varying the coupling system. Palmitoyl chitosan conjugates self-assembled to form nanoparticles in aqueous medium varying in mean average diameter (Dh) between 200 and 437 nm. Retinyl palmitate–loaded nanoparticles were prepared by a solvent displacement method using dialysis, with loading efficiencies of 77.5% and 88.6%, loading contents of 12.6% and 14.6%, and Dh values of approximately 280 nm. The zeta potential (ζ) of all palmitoyl chitosan nanoparticle were above 25 mV, but ζ slightly increased in the retinyl palmitate–loaded nanoparticle. Antioxidant activity of loaded nanoparticles was confirmed using the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl radical scavenging assay. The in vitro cytotoxicity of blank and loaded nanoparticles was determined using fibroblasts of human embryonic skin. All nanoparticles were not cytotoxic when they were tested with methylthiazol tetrazolium and lactate dehydrogenase tests. The obtained results suggest that the system has potential as a nanocarrier for dermal application. Additionally, the approach considered in this article can be expanded to other nanocarrier/antioxidant systems.
The Gym and the Beach
Authors: Johansson Thomas , Andreasson Jesper
Published: November 2014

Fitness culture is becoming gradually more globalized, both in terms of body ideals, and in terms of body techniques and philosophies of the body. This article discusses the consequences of the globalization of fitness. In particular, the article analyzes the relationship between processes of globalization and how local cultural ideals, gender, and environmental factors may contribute to the shaping of specific local gym and fitness cultures. The empirical material is based on an ethnographic case study in Newcastle, Australia, and includes observations from fitness centers and the local surroundings. In addition, interviews with personal trainers, group fitness instructors, and other professionals operating within the fitness field have been conducted. The results show that the construction of a local and national gym and fitness culture to a great extent is influenced by the standardization and globalization of fitness. The fitness industry can be analyzed and understood in terms of a “McDonaldization process.” This understanding, however, does not capture the whole image of Australian fitness. In the narratives and observations, there are also tendencies to individualize and personalize fitness in local ways, for instance, in relation to assets such as the natural environment and somewhat mythic and romanticized perceptions of an authentic Australian lifestyle.
Polyimides based on 3,5-diaminobenzonitrile
Authors: Ha Tae Young , Lee Young Do , Yang Woo-Jae , Chang Jin-Hae
Published: November 2014

A series of polyimides (PIs) was synthesized by reacting a nitrile-containing aromatic diamine, 3,5-diaminobenzonitrile, with various dianhydrides to yield poly(amic acid)s that were then cyclized to yield PIs by a thermal imidization method. The samples were characterized using thermal analysis, tensile testing, optical transparency analysis, and gas permeability analysis. The cast films exhibited good thermal stability with glass transition temperatures of 204–243°C and none exhibited significant decomposition at temperatures below 480°C. These PI films showed coefficient of thermal expansion values in the range 41.68–106.16 ppm/°C. The oxygen transmission rate values of the films containing various dianhydride monomers were in the range 0.93–27.40 cc m−2 day−1. The PI films containing various dianhydride monomers showed tensile strengths of 47–128 MPa, initial moduli of 2.16–3.23, and elongations at break of 1–7%. Moreover, the PI films possessed a transmittance of 58–82% at 500 nm and had a yellowish color with a yellow index of 12.17–59.61.
Fracture behaviour of epoxy biocomposite reinforced with short coconut fibres (Cocos nucifera) and walnut particles (Juglans regia L.)
Authors: Gope Prakash Chandra , Rao Dinesh Kumar
Published: November 2014

Mixed-mode fracture characteristics of epoxy-based biocomposite reinforced with 20 wt% walnut shell particle and 10 wt% coconut fibres are investigated. The biocomposite is fabricated using the squeeze casting method. The positive aspect of hybrid combination of fibre and particle reinforcement is advocated by comparing mode I, mode II and mixed-mode I/II fracture surfaces under a scanning electron microscope. An edge-cracked semicircular arc specimen subjected to symmetric three-point bend (TPB) loading is suggested for fracture toughness testing of biocomposite material. A series of fracture tests are conducted on hybrid biocomposite using the proposed semicircular bend (SCAB) specimen geometry, TPB and four-point bend (FPB) specimens. The average mode I and II fracture toughness obtained from semicircular arc bend (SCAB) specimen are 1.319 MPa and 1.219 MPa [Formula: see text], respectively. The average values of modes I and II toughness obtained from TPB and FPB specimens are 1.267 and 0.754 MPa [Formula: see text]. The overall ratio of mode I and mode II fracture toughness is found to be 0.762, which is very close to the predicted value of 0.87 by maximum tangential stress criterion. The results obtained from new SCAB geometry are validated with the results obtained from TPB and FPB specimen geometries by statistical significance test. Very good agreement is found between the experimental results obtained from TPB, FPB and the proposed SCAB specimens.
Travels without a donkey
Authors: Turner Charles
Published: November 2014

The writings of Bruno Latour have invigorated empirical inquiry in the social sciences and in the process helped to redefine their character. In recent years the philosophy of social science that made this inquiry possible has been deployed to a different end, namely that of rethinking the character of politics. Here I suggest that in the pursuit of this goal, inflated claims are made about that philosophy, and some basic theoretical tools are asked to do a job for which they may not be best equipped.
Recent progress in understanding the properties of elastic contacts
Authors: Ramesh Rangarajan , Hills David
Published: November 2014

This review looks at the basic classes of elastic contacts and provides practical information about the kind of response which can be expected when loads are applied. Attention is given to all kinds of contact except those which can be analysed using half-plane theory (like Hertz) and their general features explained. These remarks are relevant to all kinds of contact solutions, whether obtained partly by analytical methods or purely by numerical means.
The Influence of Motivational Cultural Intelligence on Cultural Effectiveness Based on Study Abroad
Authors: Peng Ann C. , Van Dyne Linn , Oh Kyoungjo
Published: November 2014

This study examines the influence of motivational cultural intelligence (CQ) on the development of cultural effectiveness among university short-term business study abroad program participants. We conceptualize cultural effectiveness as the degree of psychological comfort and success in managing intercultural demands. Results of a multiple-source, two-wave lagged study demonstrate that initial levels of motivational CQ were positively associated with increases in (a) cultural well-being reported by participants and (b) peer perceptions of suitability for overseas work. In addition, cultural identity, an individual’s psychological identification with his or her own national culture, strengthened the time-lagged relationship between motivational CQ and peer-rated suitability for overseas work. Participants with strong cultural identity and low motivational CQ were viewed as the least suitable for an overseas job. We discuss practical implications for designing cross-cultural education programs and implications for future research.
Pharmacological Management of Obesity in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Boland Cassie L. , Harris John Brock , Harris Kira B.
Published: November 2014

Objective: To review current evidence of pharmacological options for managing pediatric obesity and provide potential areas for future research. Data Sources: A MEDLINE search (1966 to October 2014) was conducted using the following keywords: exenatide, liraglutide, lorcaserin, metformin, obesity, orlistat, pediatric, phentermine, pramlintide, topiramate, weight loss, and zonisamide. Study Selection and Data Extraction: Identified articles were evaluated for inclusion, with priority given to randomized controlled trials with orlistat, metformin, glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists, topiramate, and zonisamide in human subjects and articles written in English. References were also reviewed for additional trials. Data Synthesis: Whereas lifestyle modification is considered first-line therapy for obese pediatric patients, severe obesity may benefit from pharmacotherapy. Orlistat is the only Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved medication for pediatric obesity and reduced body mass index (BMI) by 0.5 to 4 kg/m2, but gastrointestinal (GI) adverse effects may limit use. Metformin has demonstrated BMI reductions of 0.17 to 1.8 kg/m2, with mild GI adverse effects usually managed with dose titration. Exenatide reduced BMI by 1.1 to 1.7 kg/m2 and was well-tolerated with mostly transient or mild GI adverse effects. Topiramate and zonisamide reduced weight when used in the treatment of epilepsy. Future studies should examine efficacy and safety of pharmacological agents in addition to lifestyle modifications for pediatric obesity. Conclusions: Lifestyle interventions remain the treatment of choice in pediatric obesity, but concomitant pharmacotherapy may be beneficial in some patients. Orlistat should be considered as second-line therapy for pediatric obesity. Evidence suggests that other diabetes and antiepileptic medications may also provide weight-loss benefits, but safety should be further evaluated.
Reconstruction of the Medial Talonavicular Joint in Simulated Flatfoot Deformity
Authors: Baxter Josh R. , LaMothe Jeremy M. , Walls Raymond J. , Prado Marcelo Pires , Gilbert Susannah L. , Deland Jonathan T.
Published: November 2014

Background:

Reconstructing the ligamentous constraints of the medial arch associated with adult acquired flatfoot deformity remains a challenge. The purpose of this study was to test the efficacy of several reconstruction techniques of the medial arch. We hypothesized that an anatomic reconstruction of the spring ligament complex would correct the deformity better than other techniques tested.

Methods:

Three reconstructions of the medial support structures were performed on each specimen to recreate the different lines of action and insertions of the medial ligamentous complex in 12 specimens with a simulated flatfoot deformity. Talonavicular and tibiocalcaneal (hindfoot) orientations were measured in the axial, sagittal, and coronal planes in the intact, flatfoot, and reconstructed conditions.

Results:

While each reconstruction technique corrected the deformity ( P < .05), proximal fixation of the graft corrected the greatest amount of talonavicular deformity while also correcting hindfoot valgus ( P < .05).

Conclusion:

The fixation points and lines of action of a medial arch reconstruction have important implications on deformity correction in a flatfoot model. Despite its fidelity to the native structure, the anatomic spring ligament reconstruction provided the least amount of correction. These findings suggest that other ligamentous structures of the medial arch are critical in supporting the midfoot.

Clinical Relevance:

Reconstruction of the ligamentous supports of the medial arch might be able to correct substantial amounts of deformity without osseous procedures like calcaneal osteotomies or midfoot fusions.