bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Calculating the Position of the Joint Line of the Knee Using Anatomical Landmarks
Authors: Pereira Gavin C. , von Kaeppler Ericka , Alaia Michael J. , Montini Kenneth , Lopez Matthew J. , Di Cesare Paul E. , Amanatullah Derek F.
Published: August 2016

Restoration of the joint line of the knee during primary and revision total knee arthroplasty is a step that directly influences patient outcomes. In revision total knee arthroplasty, necessary bony landmarks may be missing or obscured, so there remains a lack of consensus on how to accurately identify and restore the joint line of the knee. In this study, 50 magnetic resonance images of normal knees were analyzed to determine a quantitative relationship between the joint line of the knee and 6 bony landmarks: medial and lateral femoral epicondyles, medial and lateral femoral metaphyseal flares, tibial tubercle, and proximal tibio-fibular joint. Wide variability was found in the absolute distance from each landmark to the joint line of the knee, including significant differences between the sexes. Normalization of the absolute distances to femoral or tibial diameters revealed reliable spatial relationships to the joint line of the knee. The joint line was found to be equidistant from the lateral femoral epicondyle and the proximal tibio-fibular joint, representing a reproducible point of reference for joint line restoration. The authors propose a simple 3-step algorithm that can be used with magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, or radiography to reliably determine the anatomical location of the joint line of the knee relative to the surrounding bony anatomy. [
Orthopedics.
2016; 39(6):381–386.]
Changes in Gene Expression during G-CSF–Induced Emergency Granulopoiesis in Humans
Authors: Pedersen Corinna C. , Borup Rehannah , Fischer-Nielsen Anne , Mora-Jensen Helena , Fossum Anna , Cowland Jack B. , Borregaard Niels
Published: August 2016

Emergency granulopoiesis refers to the increased production of neutrophils in bone marrow and their release into circulation induced by severe infection. Several studies point to a critical role for G-CSF as the main mediator of emergency granulopoiesis. However, the consequences of G-CSF stimulation on the transcriptome of neutrophils and their precursors have not yet been investigated in humans. In this work, we examine the changes in mRNA expression induced by administration of G-CSF in vivo, as a model of emergency granulopoiesis in humans. Blood samples were collected from healthy individuals after 5 d of G-CSF administration. Neutrophil precursors were sorted into discrete stages of maturation by flow cytometry, and RNA was subjected to microarray analysis. mRNA levels were compared with previously published expression levels in corresponding populations of neutrophil precursors isolated from bone marrow of untreated, healthy individuals. One thousand one hundred and ten mRNAs were differentially expressed >2-fold throughout terminal granulopoiesis. Major changes were seen in pathways involved in apoptosis, cytokine signaling, and TLR pathways. In addition, G-CSF treatment reduced the levels of four of five measured granule proteins in mature neutrophils, including the proantibacterial protein hCAP-18, which was completely deficient in neutrophils from G-CSF–treated donors. These results indicate that multiple biological processes are altered to satisfy the increased demand for neutrophils during G-CSF–induced emergency granulopoiesis in humans.
First Membrane Proximal External Region–Specific Anti-HIV1 Broadly Neutralizing Monoclonal IgA1 Presenting Short CDRH3 and Low Somatic Mutations
Authors: Benjelloun Fahd , Oruc Zeliha , Thielens Nicole , Verrier Bernard , Champier Gael , Vincent Nadine , Rochereau Nicolas , Girard Alexandre , Jospin Fabienne , Chanut Blandine , Genin Christian , Cogné Michel , Paul Stephane
Published: August 2016

Mucosal HIV-1–specific IgA have been described as being able to neutralize HIV-1 and to block viral transcytosis. In serum and saliva, the anti-HIV IgA response is predominantly raised against the envelope of HIV-1. In this work, we describe the in vivo generation of gp41-specific IgA1 in humanized α1KI mice to produce chimeric IgA1. Mice were immunized with a conformational immunogenic gp41-transfected cell line. Among 2300 clones screened by immunofluorescence microscopy, six different gp41-specific IgA with strong recognition of gp41 were identified. Two of them have strong neutralizing activity against primary HIV-1 tier 1, 2, and 3 strains and present a low rate of somatic mutations and autoreactivity, unlike what was described for classical gp41-specific IgG. Epitopes were identified and located in the hepted repeat 2/membrane proximal external region. These Abs could be of interest in prophylactic treatment to block HIV-1 penetration in mucosa or in chronically infected patients in combination with antiretroviral therapy to reduce viral load and reservoir.
Trend of a breeding population of Black kites Milvus migrans along the Po river in Turin (Italy)
Authors: Marotto Paolo
Published: August 2016

Black kites used the biggest waste dump of Turin for trophic purposes also during their reproductive months. After the dump closure there has been a sudden decrease in breeding pairs all over the area. During the following years the number of nests settled again however the small colonies trend was more scattered than before the landfill was closed.
Laudato si’ - Enciclica sulla cura della casa comune
Authors: La Mantia Tommaso
Published: August 2016

Laudato si’
Enciclica sulla cura della casa comune
Papa Francesco (Jorge Mario Bergoglio)

Libreria Editrice Vaticana, Città del Vaticano, 2015
233 pagine
ISBN 978-88-209-9578-2
€ 2,50
Indian data on central nervous tumors: A summary of published work
Authors: Dasgupta Archya , Gupta Tejpal , Jalali Rakesh
Published: August 2016

Tumors of the central nervous system (CNS) constitute approximately 2% of all malignancies. Although relatively rare, the associated morbidity and mortality and the significant proportion of affected young and middle-aged individuals has a major bearing on the death-adjusted life years compared to other malignancies. CNS tumors encompass a very broad spectrum with regards to age, location, histology, and clinical outcomes. Advances in diagnostic imaging, surgical techniques, radiotherapy equipment, and generation of newer chemotherapeutic and targeted agents over the past few years have helped improving treatment outcome. Further insights into the molecular pathways leading to the development of tumors made in the past decade are being incorporated into routine clinical practice. Several focused groups within India have been working on a range of topics related to CNS tumors, and a significant body of work from India, in the recent years, is being increasingly recognized throughout the world. The present article summarizes key published work with particular emphasis on gliomas and medulloblastoma, the two commonly encountered tumors.
Molecular Properties of Red Wine Compounds and Cardiometabolic Benefits
Authors: Markoski Melissa M. , Garavaglia Juliano , Oliveira Aline , Olivaes Jessica , Marcadenti Aline
Published: August 2016

Wine has been used since the dawn of human civilization. Despite many health benefits, there is still a lot of discussion about the real properties of its components and its actions on cells and molecular interactions. A large part of these issues permeate the fine line between the amount of alcohol that causes problems to organic systems and the amount that could be beneficial for the health. However, even after the process of fermentation, wine conserves different organic compounds from grapes, such as polysaccharides, acids, and phenolic compounds, such as flavonoids and nonflavonoids. These substances have known anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capacities, and are considered as regulatory agents in cardiometabolic process. In this study, the main chemical components present in the wine, its interaction with molecules and biological mechanisms, and their interference with intra- and extracellular signaling are reviewed. Finally, the properties of wine that may benefit cardiovascular system are also revised.
Математика и компьютерная революция
Authors: Atiyah Michael
Published: August 2016

Компьютеры преобразовали современное общество, и математика этого тоже не избежала. Эта статья, написанная 30 лет назад, подчеркивала их влияние на математику на многих уровнях. Несмотря на экспоненциальный рост мощности и сложности компьютеров, опасности, распознанные 30 лет назад, по-прежнему актуальны.
Novel Antigen Detection Assay to Monitor Therapeutic Efficacy of Visceral Leishmaniasis
Authors: Abeijon Claudia , Singh Om Prakash , Chakravarty Jaya , Sundar Shyam , Campos-Neto Antonio
Published: August 2016

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) diagnosis is routinely performed by invasive liver, spleen, bone marrow, or lymph node biopsies, followed by microscopic identification of the parasites. Conventional serological tests cannot distinguish active disease from asymptomatic VL or from cured infection. Here, we report the initial validation of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) assembled to detect the Leishmania infantum/donovani antigens iron superoxide dismutase 1 (Li-isd1), tryparedoxin 1 (Li-trx1), and nuclear transport factor 2 (Li-ntf2) as a tool to monitor therapeutic efficacy of VL. The assembled ELISA detected the antigens in the urine samples from seven VL patients before initiation of therapy. Importantly, the antigens were no longer detected in all patients after completion of the treatment. These preliminary observations point to a promising tool to follow treatment efficacy of VL.
Family-Centered Management of Sensory Challenges of Children With Autism: Single-Case Experimental Design
Authors: Bulkeley Kim , Bundy Anita , Roberts Jacqueline , Einfeld Stewart
Published: August 2016

We explored the effectiveness of a sensory-based, family-centered coaching approach to changing problematic routines for young children with autism. Three mothers of young children with autism, atypical sensory processing, and global developmental delay each participated in a single-case experimental ABA design study. Mothers selected a problematic daily routine linked to sensory challenges as the focus of four intervention sessions provided in the home. Changes in mothers’ perceptions of the children’s behavior were the primary outcome, measured daily on a visual analog scale. Visual and descriptive analyses were undertaken. The sensory-based, family-centered coaching approach showed promise for changing sensory-related problem behaviors of young children with autism, but the degree and maintenance of the intervention effect varied among participants.
Impact of a Child-Based Health Promotion Service-Learning Project on the Growth of Occupational Therapy Students
Authors: Lau Cynthia
Published: August 2016

This phenomenological study revealed the lived experiences of occupational therapy students as they embarked on a semester-long volunteer health promotion service-learning project during their entry-level master’s program. Data analysis extrapolated themes from student journals, transcriptions of pre- and postinterviews, and field notes. Student roles were exemplified by what students wanted to learn, what they actually learned, and the unexpected benefits they experienced. In particular, issues with teaming, interprofessional development, and time management were discovered. The findings add to the growing literature about the benefits of service learning as a teaching strategy and how it facilitates mindfulness of community service, communication, and clinical reasoning of future therapists. Implications for learning and practice are discussed.
Promoting Health, Well-Being, and Quality of Life for Children Who Are Overweight or Obese and Their Families
Authors: Pizzi Michael A.
Published: August 2016

Obesity is a complex, multidimensional challenge that compromises occupational participation for children and families. Children who are overweight or obese are at serious risk for being stigmatized, bullied, or marginalized, and they often are medically compromised. They cope daily with occupational participation issues at home, in school, on playgrounds, and in their communities. Prevention and health promotion assessment and intervention in occupational therapy are imperative for the profession to make a significant and sustainable difference in the lives of these children and families. Innovative client- and occupation-centered programming promotes health, well-being, and quality of life for this population. It is incumbent upon occupational therapy practitioners to prevent occupational marginalization, deprivation, and alienation while promoting occupational justice for children who are overweight or obese.
Hydroxyl radical in/on illuminated polar snow: formation rates, lifetimes,
and steady-state concentrations
Authors: Chen Zeyuan , Chu Liang , Galbavy Edward S. , Ram Keren , Anastasio Cort
Published: August 2016

Abstract. While the hydroxyl radical (•OH) in the snowpack is likely a dominant oxidant for organic species and bromide, little is known about the kinetics or steady-state concentrations of •OH on/in snow and ice. Here we measure the formation rate, lifetime, and concentration of •OH for illuminated polar snow samples studied in the laboratory and in the field. Laboratory studies show that •OH kinetics and steady-state concentrations are essentially the same for a given sample studied as ice and liquid; this is in contrast to other photooxidants, which show a concentration enhancement in ice relative to solution as a result of kinetic differences in the two phases. The average production rate of •OH in samples studied at Summit, Greenland, is 5 times lower than the average measured in the laboratory, while the average •OH lifetime determined in the field is 5 times higher than in the laboratory. These differences indicate that the polar snows we studied in the laboratory are affected by contamination, despite significant efforts to prevent this; our results suggest similar contamination may be a widespread problem in laboratory studies of ice chemistry. Steady-state concentrations of •OH in clean snow studied in the field at Summit, Greenland, range from (0.8 to 3) × 10−15 M, comparable to values reported for midlatitude cloud and fog drops, rain, and deliquesced marine particles, even though impurity concentrations in the snow samples are much lower. Partitioning of firn air •OH to the snow grains will approximately double the steady-state concentration of snow-grain hydroxyl radical, leading to an average [•OH] in near-surface, summer Summit snow of approximately 4 × 10−15 M. At this concentration, the •OH-mediated lifetimes of organics and bromide in Summit snow grains are approximately 3 days and 7 h, respectively, suggesting that hydroxyl radical is a major oxidant for both species.
Physics of Stratocumulus Top (POST): turbulence characteristics
Authors: Jen-La Plante Imai , Ma Yongfeng , Nurowska Katarzyna , Gerber Hermann , Khelif Djamal , Karpinska Katarzyna , Kopec Marta K. , Kumala Wojciech , Malinowski Szymon P.
Published: August 2016

Abstract. Turbulence observed during the Physics of Stratocumulus Top (POST) research campaign is analyzed. Using in-flight measurements of dynamic and thermodynamic variables at the interface between the stratocumulus cloud top and free troposphere, the cloud top region is classified into sublayers, and the thicknesses of these sublayers are estimated. The data are used to calculate turbulence characteristics, including the bulk Richardson number, mean-square velocity fluctuations, turbulence kinetic energy (TKE), TKE dissipation rate, and Corrsin, Ozmidov and Kolmogorov scales. A comparison of these properties among different sublayers indicates that the entrainment interfacial layer consists of two significantly different sublayers: the turbulent inversion sublayer (TISL) and the moist, yet hydrostatically stable, cloud top mixing sublayer (CTMSL). Both sublayers are marginally turbulent, i.e., the bulk Richardson number across the layers is critical. This means that turbulence is produced by shear and damped by buoyancy such that the sublayer thicknesses adapt to temperature and wind variations across them. Turbulence in both sublayers is anisotropic, with Corrsin and Ozmidov scales as small as  ∼  0.3 and  ∼  3 m in the TISL and CTMSL, respectively. These values are  ∼  60 and  ∼  15 times smaller than typical layer depths, indicating flattened large eddies and suggesting no direct mixing of cloud top and free-tropospheric air. Also, small scales of turbulence are different in sublayers as indicated by the corresponding values of Kolmogorov scales and buoyant and shear Reynolds numbers.
Using paraxial approximation to describe the optical setup of a
typical EARLINET lidar system
Authors: Kokkalis Panagiotis
Published: August 2016

Abstract. The mathematical formulation for the optical setup of a typical EARLINET lidar system is given here. The equations describing a lidar system from the emitted laser beam to its projection on the final receiving unit are revealed, based on paraxial approximation and geometric optics approach. The evaluation of the formulation is performed with ray tracing simulations, revealing an overall good performance with relative differences of the order of 5 % mainly attributed to aberrations that are not taken into account in paraxial approximation.
Performance of post-processing algorithms for rainfall intensity
measurements of tipping-bucket rain gauges
Authors: Stagnaro Mattia , Colli Matteo , Lanza Luca Giovanni , Chan Pak Wai
Published: August 2016

Abstract. A number of rain events recorded from May to September 2013 at the Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) have been selected to investigate the performance of post-processing algorithms used to calculate the Rainfall Intensity (RI) from Tipping-Bucket Rain Gauges (TBRGs). We assumed a drop counter catching-type gauge as a working reference and compared rainfall intensity measurements with two calibrated TBRGs operated at a time resolution of 1 min. The two TBRGs differ in their internal mechanics, one being a traditional single-layer dual-bucket assembly, while the other has two layers of buckets. The drop counter gauge operates at a time resolution of 10 s, while the time of tipping is recorded for the two TBRGs. The post-processing algorithms employed for the two TBRGs are based on the assumption that the tip volume is uniformly distributed over the inter-tip period. A series of data of an ideal TBRG is reconstructed using the virtual time of tipping derived from the drop counter data. From the comparison between the ideal gauge and the measurements from the two real TBRGs the performance of different post-processing and correction algorithms are statistically evaluated over the set of recorded rain events. The improvement obtained by adopting the inter-tip time algorithm in the calculation of the RI is confirmed. However, by comparing the performance of the real and ideal TBRGs, the beneficial effect of the inter-tip algorithm is shown to be relevant for the mid-low range of rainfall intensity values (where the sampling errors prevail), while its role vanishes with increasing the RI, in the range where the mechanical errors prevail.
A space–time statistical climate model for hurricane intensification in the North Atlantic basin
Authors: Fraza Erik , Elsner James B. , Jagger Thomas H.
Published: August 2016

Abstract. Climate influences on hurricane intensification are investigated by averaging hourly intensification rates over the period 1975–2014 in 8° × 8° latitude–longitude grid cells. The statistical effects of hurricane intensity and sea-surface temperature (SST), along with the climatic effects of El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO), the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) and the Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO), are quantified using a Bayesian hierarchical model fit to the averaged data. As expected, stronger hurricanes tend to have higher intensification rates, especially over the warmest waters. Of the three climate variables considered, the NAO has the largest effect on intensification rates after controlling for intensity and SST. The model shows an average increase in intensification rates of 0.18 [0.06, 0.31] m s−1 h−1 (95 % credible interval) for every 1 standard deviation decrease in the NAO index. Weak trade winds associated with the negative phase of the NAO might result in less vertical wind shear and thus higher mean intensification rates.
Electromagnetic system for detection and localization of the miners caught by accident in mine
Authors: Pronenko Vira , Dudkin Fedir
Published: August 2016

Abstract. The profession of a miner is one of the most dangerous in the world. Among the main causes of the fatalities in the underground coal mines is the untimely alerting of the accident, as well as the lack of information for the rescuers about the actual location of the miners after the accident. In an emergency situation (failure or destruction of underground infrastructure), personnel search behind and beneath of blockage should be provided urgently. But none of the standard technologies (RFID, DECT, WiFi, emitting cable), which use the stationary technical devices in mines, provides the information about the people location caught by accident with necessary precision. The only technology that is able to provide guaranteed delivery of messages about the accident to the mine personnel, regardless of their location and under any destruction in the mine, is low-frequency radio technology able to operate through the thickness of rocks even if it is wet. The proposed new system for miners localization is based on solving the inverse problem that allows the magnetic field source coordinates determining using the data of magnetic field measurements. This approach is based on the measurement of the magnetic field radiated by the miner's responder beacon using two fixed and spaced three-component magnetic field receivers and next the inverse problem solution. As a result, the working model of the system for miner's beacon search and localization (MILES – miner's location emergency system) was developed and successfully tested. The paper presents the peculiarities of this development and the results of experimental tests.
Evaluation of NorESM-OC (versions 1 and 1.2), the ocean carbon-cycle stand-alone configuration of
the Norwegian Earth System Model (NorESM1)
Authors: Schwinger Jörg , Goris Nadine , Tjiputra Jerry F. , Kriest Iris , Bentsen Mats , Bethke Ingo , Ilicak Mehmet , Assmann Karen M. , Heinze Christoph
Published: August 2016

Abstract. Idealised and hindcast simulations performed with the stand-alone ocean carbon-cycle configuration of the Norwegian Earth System Model (NorESM-OC) are described and evaluated. We present simulation results of three different model configurations (two different model versions at different grid resolutions) using two different atmospheric forcing data sets. Model version NorESM-OC1 corresponds to the version that is included in the NorESM-ME1 fully coupled model, which participated in CMIP5. The main update between NorESM-OC1 and NorESM-OC1.2 is the addition of two new options for the treatment of sinking particles. We find that using a constant sinking speed, which has been the standard in NorESM's ocean carbon cycle module HAMOCC (HAMburg Ocean Carbon Cycle model), does not transport enough particulate organic carbon (POC) into the deep ocean below approximately 2000 m depth. The two newly implemented parameterisations, a particle aggregation scheme with prognostic sinking speed, and a simpler scheme that uses a linear increase in the sinking speed with depth, provide better agreement with observed POC fluxes. Additionally, reduced deep ocean biases of oxygen and remineralised phosphate indicate a better performance of the new parameterisations. For model version 1.2, a re-tuning of the ecosystem parameterisation has been performed, which (i) reduces previously too high primary production at high latitudes, (ii) consequently improves model results for surface nutrients, and (iii) reduces alkalinity and dissolved inorganic carbon biases at low latitudes. We use hindcast simulations with prescribed observed and constant (pre-industrial) atmospheric CO2 concentrations to derive the past and contemporary ocean carbon sink. For the period 1990–1999 we find an average ocean carbon uptake ranging from 2.01 to 2.58 Pg C yr−1 depending on model version, grid resolution, and atmospheric forcing data set.
Real-time monitoring of nitrate transport in the deep vadose zone under a crop
field – implications for groundwater protection
Authors: Turkeltaub Tuvia , Kurtzman Daniel , Dahan Ofer
Published: August 2016

Abstract. Nitrate is considered the most common non-point pollutant in groundwater. It is often attributed to agricultural management, when excess application of nitrogen fertilizer leaches below the root zone and is eventually transported as nitrate through the unsaturated zone to the water table. A lag time of years to decades between processes occurring in the root zone and their final imprint on groundwater quality prevents proper decision-making on land use and groundwater-resource management. This study implemented the vadose-zone monitoring system (VMS) under a commercial crop field. Data obtained by the VMS for 6 years allowed, for the first time known to us, a unique detailed tracking of water percolation and nitrate migration from the surface through the entire vadose zone to the water table at 18.5 m depth. A nitrate concentration time series, which varied with time and depth, revealed – in real time – a major pulse of nitrate mass propagating down through the vadose zone from the root zone toward the water table. Analysis of stable nitrate isotopes indicated that manure is the prevalent source of nitrate in the deep vadose zone and that nitrogen transformation processes have little effect on nitrate isotopic signature. The total nitrogen mass calculations emphasized the nitrate mass migration towards the water table. Furthermore, the simulated pore-water velocity through analytical solution of the convection–dispersion equation shows that nitrate migration time from land surface to groundwater is relatively rapid, approximately 5.9 years. Ultimately, agricultural land uses, which are constrained to high nitrogen application rates and coarse soil texture, are prone to inducing substantial nitrate leaching.
Willingness-to-pay for a probabilistic flood forecast: a risk-based decision-making game
Authors: Arnal Louise , Ramos Maria-Helena , Coughlan de Perez Erin , Cloke Hannah Louise , Stephens Elisabeth , Wetterhall Fredrik , van Andel Schalk Jan , Pappenberger Florian
Published: August 2016

Abstract. Probabilistic hydro-meteorological forecasts have over the last decades been used more frequently to communicate forecast uncertainty. This uncertainty is twofold, as it constitutes both an added value and a challenge for the forecaster and the user of the forecasts. Many authors have demonstrated the added (economic) value of probabilistic over deterministic forecasts across the water sector (e.g. flood protection, hydroelectric power management and navigation). However, the richness of the information is also a source of challenges for operational uses, due partially to the difficulty in transforming the probability of occurrence of an event into a binary decision. This paper presents the results of a risk-based decision-making game on the topic of flood protection mitigation, called "How much are you prepared to pay for a forecast?". The game was played at several workshops in 2015, which were attended by operational forecasters and academics working in the field of hydro-meteorology. The aim of this game was to better understand the role of probabilistic forecasts in decision-making processes and their perceived value by decision-makers. Based on the participants' willingness-to-pay for a forecast, the results of the game show that the value (or the usefulness) of a forecast depends on several factors, including the way users perceive the quality of their forecasts and link it to the perception of their own performances as decision-makers.
Sustainability of water uses in managed hydrosystems: human-
and climate-induced changes for the mid-21st century
Authors: Fabre Julie , Ruelland Denis , Dezetter Alain , Grouillet Benjamin
Published: August 2016

Abstract. This paper assesses the sustainability of planned water uses in mesoscale river basins under multiple climate change scenarios, and contributes to determining the possible causes of unsustainability. We propose an assessment grounded in real-world water management issues, with water management scenarios built in collaboration with local water agencies. Furthermore, we present an analysis through indicators that relate to management goals and present the implications of climate uncertainty for our results, furthering the significance of our study for water management. A modeling framework integrating hydro-climatic and human dynamics and accounting for interactions between resource and demand was applied in two basins of different scales and with contrasting water uses: the Herault (2500 km2, France) and the Ebro (85 000 km2, Spain) basins. Natural streamflow was evaluated using a conceptual hydrological model. A demand-driven reservoir management model was designed to account for streamflow regulations from the main dams. Human water demand was estimated from time series of demographic, socioeconomic and climatic data. Environmental flows were accounted for by defining streamflow thresholds under which withdrawals were strictly limited. Finally indicators comparing water availability to demand at strategic resource and demand nodes were computed. This framework was applied under different combinations of climatic and water use scenarios for the mid-21st to differentiate the impacts of climate- and human-induced changes on streamflow and water balance. Results showed that objective monthly environmental flows would be guaranteed in current climate conditions in both basins, yet in several areas this could imply limiting human water uses more than once every 5 years. The impact of the tested climate projections on both water availability and demand could question the water allocations and environmental requirements currently planned for the coming decades. Water shortages for human use could become more frequent and intense, and the pressure on water resources and aquatic ecosystems could intensify. The causes of unsustainability vary across sub-basins and scenarios, and in most areas results are highly dependent on the climate change scenario.
Multifractal behaviour of the soil water content of a vineyard in northwest Spain during two growing seasons
Authors: Mirás-Avalos José Manuel , Trigo-Córdoba Emiliano , da Silva-Dias Rosane , Varela-Vila Irene , García-Tomillo Aitor
Published: August 2016

Abstract. Soil processes are characterized by a great degree of heterogeneity, which may be assessed by scaling properties. The aims of the current study were to describe the dynamics of soil water content at three depths in a vineyard under rain-fed and irrigation conditions and to assess the multifractality of these time data series. Frequency domain reflectometry (FDR) sensors were used for automatically monitoring soil water content in a vineyard located in Leiro (Ourense, northwest Spain). Data were registered at 30 min intervals at three depths (20, 40, and 60 cm) between 14 June and 26 August 2011 and 2012. Two treatments were considered: rain-fed and irrigation to 50 % crop evapotranspiration. Soil water content data series obeyed power laws and tended to behave as multifractals. Values for entropy (D1) and correlation (D2) dimensions were lower in the series from the irrigation treatment. The Hölder exponent of order zero (α0) was similar between treatments; however, the widths of the singularity spectra, f(α), were greater under irrigation conditions. Multifractality indices slightly decreased with depth. These results suggest that singularity and Rényi spectra were useful for characterizing the time variability of soil water content, distinguishing patterns among series registered under rain-fed and irrigation treatments.
Changes in extreme regional sea level under global warming
Authors: Brunnabend S.-E. , Dijkstra H. A. , Kliphuis M. A. , Bal H. E. , Seinstra F. , van Werkhoven B. , Maassen J. , van Meersbergen M.
Published: August 2016

Abstract. An important contribution to future changes in regional sea level extremes is due to the changes in intrinsic ocean variability, in particular ocean eddies. Here, we study a scenario of future dynamic sea level (DSL) extremes using a strongly eddying version of the Parallel Ocean Program. This model is forced with atmospheric fluxes from a coupled climate model which has been integrated under the IPCC-SRES-A1B scenario over the period 2000–2100. Changes in 10-year return time DSL extremes are very inhomogeneous over the globe and are related to changes in ocean cur- rents and corresponding regional shifts in ocean eddy pathways. In this scenario, several regions in the North Atlantic experience an increase in mean DSL of up to 0.4 m over the period 2000–2100. DSL extremes with a 10-year return time increase up to 0.2 m with largest values in the northern and eastern Atlantic.
Studying the viral growth of a connective action network using information event signatures
Authors: Hemsley Jeff
Published: August 2016

The Arab spring and Occupy Wall Street movements demonstrated that networks of individuals who share interests or grievances could quickly form on social media. There is a reciprocal relationship between the growth of these networks and the information that flows through them. This study examines this relationship by using viral information event signatures, which show the changing rate of sharing of a specific message over a period of time. The Occupy movement and the digital interactions of its participants provides a context and rich corpus of data from which to study the relationship between the signatures of information flows and the growth the Occupy network. Using exploratory data analysis and multivariate regression to analyze Occupy related tweets drawn from a corpus of over 64 million tweets, this study first provides a parameterized signature model and then uses regression to show that a relationship exists between the shape of the signature and the rate at which key actors gain followers. This work also finds a quadratic decline, over the life cycle of the movement, in the rate at which the actors gain followers. The contributions of this work include the parameterized signature model, a demonstration of its usefulness, and a new perspective on the growth of the Occupy movement.
Clinical factors associated with death from acute pulmonary embolism in Thailand
Authors: Makarawate Pattarapong , Chaosuwannakit Narumol , Thongkrau Theerayut , Keeratikasikorn Chaiyapon , Sawanyawisuth Kittisak
Published: August 2016

Background

Acute pulmonary embolism (APE) is under diagnosed and may be fatal. Computed tomographic pulmonary angiography (CTPA) showing right ventricular failure is associated with mortality in APE. In resource-limited facilities, clinical factors are crucial.

Objectives

We studied clinical factors that were associated with death from APE.

Methods

We enrolled patients with APE proven by CTPA between January 1, 2007 and July 31, 2011 at Khon Kaen University. Clinical factors associated with death from APE were studied by multiple logistic regression analysis. An online tool to assess risk of death from APE was also used.

Results

There were 81 eligible patients in the study. Of those, 20 patients (25%) died within 3 months. Clinical factors significantly associated with death were low systolic blood pressure (SBP), high pulse rate, and low oxygen saturation at presentation.

Conclusions

Initial systolic blood pressure, pulse rate, and oxygen saturation are associated with mortality from APE.
Emergency severity index compared with 4-level triage at the emergency department of Ramathibodi University Hospital
Authors: Yuksen Chaiyaporn , Sawatmongkornkul Sorravit , Suttabuth Supakrid , Sawanyawisuth Kittisak , Sittichanbuncha Yuwares
Published: August 2016

Background

Emergency department (ED) triage is important for categorizing and prioritizing patients. Effective triage may assist in crowd reduction in the ED and appropriate patient management. There are several systems, including the 5-level Emergency Severity Index (ESI) and the 4-level Ramathibodi-nurse triage. Currently, there are limited data by which to compare the 5- versus 4-level triage; particularly on health outcomes, such as length of stay in the ED, mortality, and resource needs.

Objective

To compare the accuracy of 5- and 4-level triage in an ED.

Method

This observational study was conducted on a cross-section of patients in the ED at Ramathibodi Hospital of Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand. Eligible patients were those who visited the ED and were evaluated by ESI and nurse triage. Each evaluation was blinded to the results of the other. Discrimination performance between the 5- and 4-level triage was compared by using the area under a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and concordance statistic for prediction of life saving intervention. Net reclassification improvement (NRI) of the 5-level ESI over the 4-level triage was performed.

Result

Study criteria were met by 520 patients. The areas under the ROC curves of the ESI and nurse triage on life-saving intervention were 92.2% (95% confidence intervals were 87.3%, 96.9%) and 81.3% (95% CI 75.2%, 87.3%), respectively. Areas under the ROC curve differed significantly (P < 0.001). The overall reclassification improvement was 42.4%.

Conclusion

The 5-level emergency severity index was more accurate than the 4-level triage in terms of lifesaving intervention.
Evaluation of the utility of cardiac ultrasonography of patients in a surgical intensive care unit
Authors: Prichayudh Supparerk , Uthaithammarat Tatsana , Chatrkaw Phornlert , Poonyathawon Sahadol , Thawitsri Thammasak , Kumwilaisak Kanya , Kongwibulwut Manasnun , Chokengarmwong Nalin
Published: August 2016

Background

Ultrasonography is being more commonly used by intensivists to assess the hemodynamic status of patients in intensive care units (ICUs) and for other purposes.

Objective

To review the indications for and evaluate the impact of cardiac ultrasonography (CUS) on the management of patients in a surgical ICU (SICU).

Method

We conducted a retrospective observational cohort study of patients in the SICU who underwent CUS performed by intensivists at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital from January 2011 to March 2013. CUS was used to determine (1) preload (using inferior vena cava (IVC) diameter and collapsibility index), (2) cardiac contractility (using subjective assessment and fractional shortening), and (3) other miscellaneous findings.

Result

We included data from 157 patients (96 male and 61 female) whose age ranged from 15 to 99 years (mean 63.5 years) in the study. CUS was performed 190 times in these 157 patients. The most common indication for CUS was hemodynamic status assessment (78), followed by shock (69), oliguria (35), and other (8). CUS results led to 71 changes in management (37% of cases) ; namely, fluid challenge (38), inotropic drug management (7), drainage of pleural/abdominal fluid (12), and other changes (14). A weakly-positive correlation between the IVC diameter and CVP (Pearson’s r = 0.45) was demonstrated. The overall mortality rate was 14.6%.

Conclusion

CUS performed by intensivists can be used to assess the hemodynamic status of patients in the SICU, especially those with shock or oliguria, and lead to changes in the management of these patients.
From iteration to one - dimensional discrete dynamical systems using CAS
Authors: Sárvári Csaba , Klincsik Mihály
Published: August 2016

In our paper we present the basic didactical framework and approaches of a course on one-dimensional discrete dynamical systems made with the help of Computer Algebra Systems (CAS) for students familiar with the fundamentals of calculus. First we review some didactical principles of teaching mathematics in general and write about the advantages of the modularization for CAS in referring to the constructivistic view of learning. Then we deal with our own development, a CAS-based collection of programs for teaching Newton's method for the calculation of roots of a real function. Included is the discussion of domains of attraction and chaotic behaviour of the iterations. We summarize our teaching experiences using CAS.
Models of impulsive phenomena
Authors: Karsai János
Published: August 2016

"Take the textbook to computer" – is said quite often. Would it be so easy? If we start such a work, we meet a lot of trouble very soon. A book stored on a CD, read on the screen of computer and containing some hyperlinks does not become automatically electronic textbook. There are difficulties also in writing merely an electronic attachment to a classical book. In this paper, we deal with some important features (actually important from our point of view) of interactive mathematics textbooks, arising mathematical, didactical and technical problems. The "principles" are illustrated with examples taken from the book-CD "Models of Impulsive Phenomena".
Effects of Displacement Velocity on Rock Fracture Shear Strengths under Large Confinements
Authors: Kleepmek Matsee , Hamrat Supattra K , Fuenkajorn Kittitep
Published: August 2016

Triaxial shear tests are performed to assess the effects of displacement velocity and confining pressure on shear strengths and dilations of tension-induced fractures and smooth saw-cut surfaces prepared in granite, sandstone and marl specimens. A polyaxial load frame is used to apply confining pressures between 1 and 18 MPa with displacement velocities ranging from 1.15×10-5 to 1.15×10-2 mm/s. The results indicate that the shearing resistances of smooth saw-cut surfaces tend to be independent of the displacement velocity and confining pressure. Under each confinement the peak and residual shear strengths and dilation rates of rough fractures increase with displacement velocities. The sheared-off areas increase when the confining pressure increases, and the displacement rate decreases. The velocity-dependent shear strengths tend to act more under high confining pressures for the rough fractures in strong rock (granite) than for the smoother fractures in weaker rocks (sandstone and marl). An empirical criterion that explicitly incorporates the effects of shear velocity is proposed to describe the peak and residual shear strengths. The criterion fits well to the test results for the three tested rocks.
Epidemiological and Clinical Aspects of Scorpion Sting among Children in South Part of Iran
Authors: Shahi Mehran , Moosavy Seyed H. , Rafinejad Javad , Zare Shahram , Navidpour Shahrokh , Madani Abdoulhossain
Published: August 2016

Scorpion sting is regarded as one of the most medically-related problems in south part of Iran. This study aimed to describe the epidemiological aspects, clinical symptom and stinging agents among scorpion sting victims referred to Children Hospital in Hormozgan province. A cross-sectional study was conducted which involved all patients who had been stung by scorpion retaining scorpion sample at the time of admission. This study was conducted from May, 2014 to November, 2015. Data was gathered using the researcher made questionnaire and patient`s fills. Data was analyzed by SPSS version 20, using descriptive and analytical statistics such as frequency, percentage, Chi-square and t-test. A total of 191 patients with age ranging from 1 month to 14 years (Mean= 6 ± 2) were studied. The most frequent patients were in the age group 6-10 years old. In this study 103 (53.9) were males and 88 (46.1) females. 169 (88.5%) stung cases were from rural areas and 22 (11.5) were reported from urban areas of the county. Most of the stings occurred indoors in rural areas. Most patients, 148 (80.6%), had been admitted to emergency department within 1-6 hour after scorpion sting. The most prevalence of scorpion stings occurred on foot, 74 (38.7%), and hand, 61 (31.9%). Seventeen species belonging to two families Hemiscorpidae and Buthidae were identified. The main species of scorpion responsible for stinging was Hemiscorpius acanthocercus 41 (21.5%) followed by Compsobuthus persicus, 37 (19.5), and H. enischnochela, 35 (18.4). The most common clinical symptoms observed in patients were pain (56.5%), erythema (39.8%) and burning sensation (33.5%). The findings of this study, highlights the role of age, gender, residence location and scorpion species in envenomation. Therefore, health providers are recommended to consider these factors and the interference of these elements to prevent and care scorpion envenomation in children under 14 years old.
Amending and Changing the Seismic Behavior of K-bracing by Yielding Damped Braced Frame (YDBF)
Authors: Mehdi Vajdian , Ali Parvari , Alireza Habibi
Published: August 2016

An inactive control method is to prepare the kinds of dampers as inactive energy wasting factor for metallic structure buildings. Yielding metallic dampers (or excurrent) are metallic devices which can waste energy in an earthquake by the effect of non-elastic changes of metals, also in the braced systems of structure buildings, they can improve resistance against earthquake and their damages control potential significantly. With regard to the geometry of K-bracing and the weaknesses which are by the effect of a resultant of two compressive and tensile forces of Bersnon, Iran's earthquake regulation in 2008 has exerted some limitations for using of this system. Therefore, in this research we tried to eliminate these limitations to some extent by using of metallic dampers. For doing this research, by using of two software of finite components (sap2000, Abaqus) with static non-linear analysis, we achieved the same purpose. This kind of dampers due to the simplicity of their installation and low cost of them can be applied both in new and existing buildings.
Use of Virtual Learning on Academic Performance of Js 1 Integrated Science Student in Secondary School in Port Harcourt Local Government Area
Authors: J. Etim, P. , N. Udosen, I. , Chinyeaka Wordu Nkasiobi
Published: August 2016

This paper examined the use of virtual learning on the academic performance of JS 1 Integrated Science Students in Secondary Schools in Port Harcourt Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria. In discussing this, it examined the concept of virtual learning instruction, Synchronous and Asynchronous e-learning as compared to face-to-face traditional classroom learning and the advantages and disadvantages of virtual learning. Quasi experimental design was adopted. Population for the study comprised all JS 1 students in public secondary schools in Port Harcourt Local Government Area. Sample size of 200 students were selected from 2,910 JS 1 students in all the public secondary schools in Port Harcourt Local Government Area using the multi-stage sampling technique. Instrument for data collection was an objective Integrated Science performance test (OIPT). Two hypotheses were formulated and tested using Factorial Analysis of Variance (ANCOVA). Result of the analysis showed that there is no significant difference in student’s academic performance when virtual learning and expository methods are used in teaching Integrated Science in Junior Secondary class (f1.195 = 1.606, p > .05) and that there is no significant difference between the academic performance of female and male students when virtual learning and expository methods are used in teaching Integrated Science in JS 1 (F1, 195 = 717, p > .05). It was therefore recommended that: Teachers should try to apply the virtual learning instruction in the teaching of Integrated Science as this was found to impact on the students achievement positively and that male and female students should be equally engaged in the learning of Integrated Science where VLS is incorp+orated to eliminate the gender bias in sciences.