bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design of an Observer-Based Repetitive Control System to Reject Periodic Disturbance
Authors: Shao Zhen , Xiang Zhengrong
Published: February 2016

This paper concerns the design of an observer-based repetitive control system (RCS) to improve the periodic disturbance rejection performance. The periodic disturbance is estimated by a repetitive learning based estimator (RLE) and rejected by incorporation of the estimation into a repetitive control (RC) input. Firstly, the configuration of the observer-based RCS with the RLE is described. Then, a continuous–discrete two-dimensional (2D) model is built to describe the RCS. By choosing an appropriate Lyapunov functional, a sufficient condition is proposed to guarantee the stability of the RCS. Finally, a numerical example is given to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.
PERSONALIZED FINITE ELEMENT MODELING ANALYSIS OF FEMUR BONE HEALING AFTER INTRAMEDULLARY NAILING
Authors: ZHOU JIANGJUN , YI RUI , ZHAO MIN , LIU DA , LV RENFA , YU WEITAO , DU CHENGFEI
Published: February 2016

Purpose: Based on rapid modeling 1 year after intramedullary nailing, personalized finite element modeling analysis was performed to predict whether the broken ends of fractured bones would break again after nail dislodgement. Methods: A total of 10 male volunteers with femur fractures who had undergone intramedullary nailing were selected 1 year after fixation and were divided into healing ([Formula: see text][Formula: see text]5) and non-healing ([Formula: see text][Formula: see text]5) groups based on X-ray analysis. We modeled each femoral fracture and performed finite element analyses after the intramedullary nail was dislodged. Static loads and constraints were applied to each model to simulate a person standing on one leg. Results: In the healing group, the von Mises stress concentrations and stress concentration point distribution were located outside the bone healing area, indicating that the stress was not concentrated at the fracture site. In the non-healing group, the maximum von Mises stress for various materials was located in the broken ends of the fractured bone, indicating that the stress was concentrated at the fracture site. Conclusion: Personalized modeling can be used to analyze bone healing before removal of a fixator to predict the stability of the fractured bone after fixator removal and to rapidly decide whether slow walking could refracture the broken ends.
Magnetothermal properties of (octakis-trifluoromethylphenyltetraazaporphinato)manganese(III) acetate in aqueous suspension
Authors: Lomova Tatyana N. , Korolev Victor V. , Ramazanova Anna G. , Ovchenkova Ekaterina N.
Published: February 2016

The magnetocaloric effect (MCE), heat capacity, and magnetization thermodynamic parameters of the high-spin (octakis-trifluoromethylphenyltetraazaporphinato)manganese(III) acetate, (AcO)MnTAP(3-CF3C6H[Formula: see text], in a 1% aqueous suspension were determined by means of microcalorimetric method at 275–320 K in magnetic fields of 0.1–1.0 T. The conditions are comparable with those used with (octakis(3-tert-butylphenyl)tetraazaporphinato)manganese(III) acetate, (2,3,7,8,12,13,17,18-octaethylporphinato)manganese(III) chloride and (5,10,15,20-tetraphenylporphinato)manganese(III) chloride, acetate or bromide studied earlier. Paramagnetic properties were found in high-disperse particles of complexes, positive MCE values were obtained. As paramagnets, these complexes exhibit a big magnetocaloric effect (up to 0.85 K when the magnetic induction is changed from 0 to 1 T) at temperatures close to room, what could be employed for cooling in home and industrial refrigerators and hyperthermia in cancer diagnostics and therapy. MCE sensitivity to the nature and electronic structure of the aromatic macrocycle was discussed. The specific heat capacity of the complex depended on the temperature was obtained. Effect of magnetic field on the temperature dependence of the specific heat capacity for (AcO)MnTAP(3-CF3C6H[Formula: see text] practically is not visible.
The sedimentation of Suminagashi-like floating clay patterns at El Chichón crater lake (Chiapas, Mexico)
Authors: Rouwet D. , Iorio M.
Published: February 2016

This study describes the traditional Japanese Suminagashi paper marbling technique in an unusual, non-artistic way based on observations in nature (El Chichón crater lake, Chiapas, Mexico) and supported by physical processes such as wave action and Marangoni flow. It is the first time that these seemingly unrelated phenomena are linked. We show how clays floating on the surface of the El Chichón crater lake bear a strong resemblance to Suminagashi patterns. Clays rise from the lake bottom by vigorous bubbling of gases or thermal convection. After floating on the water surface due to capillary forces, the clays are transported towards the lake shore by wind-generated waves. The clay-covered lake surface is subject to Marangoni flow when the lake becomes very shallow (a few centimetres) near the lake shore. The flat lake bottom and the dynamic alternation between retreat and incurrence of the lake shore consequently result in the precipitation of the clay patterns, preserving the Suminagashi-like designs in the lake sediments. Recognition of similar patterns in the sedimentary record could indicate the presence of a shallow sedimentary environment in the past, possibly pointing to a heated crater lake.
Positive outcomes increase over time with the implementation of a semiflipped teaching model
Authors: Gorres-Martens Brittany K. , Segovia Angela R. , Pfefer Mark T.
Published: February 2016

The flipped teaching model can engage students in the learning process and improve learning outcomes. The purpose of the present study was to assess the outcomes of a semiflipped teaching model over time. Neurophysiology students spent the majority of class time listening to traditional didactic lectures, but they also listened to 5 online lectures and spent 8–10 class periods completing an active learning assignment. At the end of the term, students completed a survey to assess the outcomes of the active learning assignments. The positive outcomes were greater the second time the course was taught in a semiflipped manner. While completely flipping a course takes a tremendous amount of time, instructors can still obtain positive outcomes by implementing a semiflipped teaching model.
SERCA2a upregulation ameliorates cellular alternans induced by metabolic inhibition
Authors: Stary Victoria , Puppala Dheeraj , Scherrer-Crosbie Marielle , Dillmann Wolfgang H. , Armoundas Antonis A.
Published: February 2016

Cardiac alternans has been associated with the incidence of ventricular tachyarrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of impaired mitochondrial function in the genesis of cellular alternans and to examine whether modulating the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ameliorates the level of alternans. Cardiomyocytes isolated from control and doxycyline-induced sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase 2a (SERCA2a)-upregulated mice were loaded with two different Ca2+indicators to selectively measure mitochondrial and cytosolic Ca2+using a custom-made fluorescence photometry system. The degree of alternans was defined as the alternans ratio (AR) [1 − (small Ca2+intensity)/(large Ca2+intensity)]. Blocking of complex I and II, cytochrome- c oxidase, F0F1synthase, α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase of the electron transport chain, increased alternans in both control and SERCA2a mice ( P < 0.01). Changes in AR in SERCA2a-upregulated mice were significantly less pronounced than those observed in control in seven of nine tested conditions ( P < 0.04). N-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC), rescued alternans in myocytes that were previously exposed to an oxidizing agent ( P < 0.001). CGP, an antagonist of the mitochondrial Na+-Ca2+exchanger, had the most severe effect on AR. Exposure to cyclosporin A, a blocker of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore reduced CGP-induced alternans ( P < 0.0001). The major findings of this study are that impairment of mitochondrial Ca2+cycling and energy production leads to a higher amplitude of alternans in both control and SERCA2a-upregulated mice, but changes in SERCA2a-upregulated mice are less severe, indicating that SERCA2a mice are more capable of sustaining electrical stability during stress. This suggests a relationship between sarcoplasmic Ca2+content and mitochondrial dysfunction during alternans, which may potentially help to understand changes in Ca2+signaling in myocytes from diseased hearts, leading to new therapeutic targets.
Unilateral lower limb suspension: From subject selection to “omic” responses
Authors: Tesch Per A. , Lundberg Tommy R. , Fernandez-Gonzalo Rodrigo
Published: February 2016

The unilateral lower limb suspension (ULLS) method was developed, introduced, and validated in the quest for a simple, effective, and highly reliable human analog to study the consequences of spaceflight on muscle size and function. Because withdrawal of weight bearing for no more than 2–3 days is sufficient to inflict disturbances in protein metabolism of postural muscles, it is imperative ULLS serves as a very powerful method to manifest skeletal muscle adaptations similar to those experienced in 0 g. Thus the rate of global muscle loss appears rather constant over the first 2 mo, amounting to about 2–3% per week. At the microscopic level, these changes are accompanied by a corresponding decrease in individual muscle fiber size. ULLS alters metabolism favoring more carbohydrate over fat substrate utilization. Altogether, these changes result in impaired work and endurance capacity of muscles being subjected to ULLS. Maximal voluntary force decreases out of proportion to the muscle loss, suggesting motor control is modified. Past reviews offer near exhaustive information on ULLS-induced responses with regard to the above changes. Hence, the current brief review describes more broadly the evolution of the ULLS model, from issues of subject recruitment and compliance control, to recent advances unraveling molecular mechanisms facilitating unloading-induced muscle wasting. Such knowledge is critical in designing future studies aimed at exploring and developing exercise countermeasures or other means to combat the debilitating effects on muscle experienced by astronauts during long-haul missions in Orbit.
Insulin Increases Expression of TRPC6 Channels in Podocytes by a Calcineurin-Dependent Pathway
Authors: Xia Shengqiang , Liu Ying , Li Xinming , Thilo Florian , Tepel Martin
Published: February 2016

Background/Aims: Insulin signaling to podocytes is relevant for the function of the glomerulus. Now, we tested the hypothesis that insulin increases the surface expression of canonical transient receptor potential canonical type 6 (TRPC6) channels in podocytes by a calcineurin-dependent pathway. Methods: We used quantitative RT-PCR, immunoblotting, immunofluorescence and fluorescence spectrophotometry in cultured podocytes. Activation of Nuclear Factor of Activated T-cells (NFATc1) was measured using a specific calorimetric assay. Results: Insulin increased the expression of TRPC6 transcripts and protein in podocytes. Insulin increased TRPC6 transcripts in a time and dose-dependent manner. The insulin-induced elevation of TRPC6 transcripts was blocked in the presence of tacrolimus, cyclosporine A, and NFAT-inhibitor (each p < 0.01 by ANOVA and Bonferroni's multiple comparison test). Transcripts of NOX4, another target gene of the calcineurin-NFAT pathway, were affected in a similar way. Immunoblotting showed that the administration of 100 nmol/L insulin increased TRPC6-proteins 2-fold within 48 hours. Insulin increased the activity of NFATc1 in nuclear extracts (p < 0.001) whereas tacrolimus, cyclosporine A, and NFAT-inhibitor blocked that insulin effect (p < 0.001; two way ANOVA). Immunofluorescence showed that insulin increased TRPC6-expression on the cell surface. Fluorescence-spectrophotometry and manganese quench experiments indicated that the increased TRPC6-expression after insulin administration was accompanied by an elevated transplasmamembrane cation influx. Insulin-stimulated surface expression of TRPC6 as well as transplasmamembrane cation influx could be reduced by pretreatment with tacrolimus. Conclusion: Insulin increases the expression of TRPC6 channels in podocytes by activation of the calcineurin-dependent pathway.
Developing a Correct System to Evaluate the Accuracy of Gleason Score in Prostate Cancer of Chinese Population
Authors: Wang Jun , Cheng Gong , Li Xiao , Huang Yuan , Pan Yongsheng , Qin Chao , Hua Lixin , Wang Zengjun
Published: February 2016

Introduction: A study was conducted to develop a new correct system to improve the overall rate of Gleason sum concordance between biopsy and final pathology. Materials and Methods: A total of 592 consecutive patients who had undergone transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy and radical prostatectomy were evaluated during the first stage. Age, PSA, PSA density (PSAD), biopsy cores, positive cores, prostate volume, positive core rate (PCR), core volume rate (CVR) and digital rectal examination findings were considered predictive factors. A multiple logistic regression analysis involving a backward elimination selection procedure and linear regression analysis involving a stepwise procedure were applied to select independent predictors. Results: Positive cores, PCR, CVR and PSAD were included in our assessing credibility model in the first stage. A significantly higher area under the receiver-operating curve was obtained in our model compared with CVR alone (0.641 vs. 0.517). In the second stage, patients with credibility of pre-operative Gleason score <0.388 were subjected to further evaluation. Compared with the 2 statuses, the rate of overall concordance was significantly increased (60.3 vs. 50.2%, p = 0.002). Conclusions: We developed a follow-up strategy based on the new and correct system, which represents an important consideration procedure when clinicians make decisions with regard to treatment plans.
Pseudocirrhosis in Gastric Cancer with Diffuse Liver Metastases after a Dramatic Response to Chemotherapy
Authors: Mitani Seiichiro , Kadowaki Shigenori , Taniguchi Hiroya , Muto Hisanori , Muro Kei
Published: February 2016

We present the first reported case of pseudocirrhosis arising after a dramatic response to chemotherapy in metastatic gastric cancer. A 74-year-old man was diagnosed with gastric adenocarcinoma having multiple liver metastases. His general condition was poor, with an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 3, inadequate oral intake, and jaundice (total bilirubin 2.8 mg/dl). Chemotherapy with oxaliplatin, L-leucovorin, and 5-fluorouracil (modified FOLFOX-6) was initiated. After four treatment cycles, he experienced a marked regression of liver metastases; however, he developed massive ascites with a lobular liver surface and segmental atrophy, which were consistent with pseudocirrhosis. Chemotherapy was continued along with ascites management. Thereafter, ascites disappeared, and a complete response of the metastatic lesions was achieved at 11 months after initial treatment. He had no evidence of disease progression at 30 months after initial chemotherapy. This report suggests clinicians should recognize this entity, even in gastric cancer metastatic to the liver.
Prevalence of Diabetes and Diabetic Neuropathy in Qena Governorate: Population-Based Survey
Authors: Khedr Eman M. , Fawi Gharib , Allah Abbas Mohammed Abd , El-Fetoh Noha Abo , Al Attar Ghada , Zaki Ahmed F. , Gamea Ayman
Published: February 2016

Background: No previous study was done to estimate the prevalence of diabetic neuropathy (DN) in Arabic countries. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of DN and its characteristics in Qena governorate. Material and Methods: This is a random sampling of 10 study areas, involving 9,303 inhabitants; 51.1% men and 48.9% women were recruited. There were 57.3% urban residents and 42.7% rural residents. Patients were diagnosed using a screening questionnaire for diabetes mellitus (DM) as well as for DN in addition to measuring blood sugar in suspected cases. All positive cases were referred to Qena University Hospital and were subjected to full clinical, electrophysiological and laboratory investigations. Results: Out of 9,303 people screened, 837 were diabetic giving prevalence 8.99% of the population. Eight hundred eleven had type II DM and 26 cases had type I giving prevalence of 8.7 and 0.3%, respectively. One hundred fifty-five out of 837 (18.5%) diabetic patients had evidence of DN with prevalence rate being 1.7% of the total population. Diabetic polyneuropathy was the commonest type with prevalence 1.5%. The prevalence of DN was higher in women than in men. Rural residents had significantly higher prevalence of DN compared to urban residents (1.9 vs. 1.4) and illiterate population more than educated (5.8 vs. 1.2). Conclusion: The overall crude prevalence rate of DM and DN is nearly the same as in European countries and lower than that in other Arabic countries.
Increased Risk of Stroke in Patients with Isolated Third, Fourth, or Sixth Cranial Nerve Palsies: A Nationwide Cohort Study
Authors: Hoi Chu-Peng , Chen Yung-Tai , Fuh Jong-Ling , Yang Chun-Pai , Wang Shuu-Jiun
Published: February 2016

Background and Purpose: The aim of this nationwide cohort study was to evaluate whether the occurrence of isolated 3rd, 4th or 6th cranial nerve (CN) palsies is associated with a higher risk of ischemic stroke. Methods: This study utilized data from Taiwan Longitudinal Health Insurance Database during 1995-2012. Subjects aged 20 years or older who had isolated CN 3/4/6 palsies diagnosed by a neurologist or ophthalmologist between January 2000 and December 2011 were included. A set of propensity score matched, randomly sampled patients who had never been diagnosed with CN 3/4/6 palsies were extracted to constitute the control group (cases and controls = 1:4). All subjects were followed until death, loss due to follow-up or completion of the study. Cox proportional hazard regression model stratified by matched pairs was used to estimate the hazards ratio (HR) of ischemic stroke. Results: A total of 657 patients with isolated CN 3/4/6 palsies (61.1% male, mean age 54.8 years) were identified. Compared with control group, the patients with isolated CN 3/4/6 palsies exhibited an increased risk of ischemic stroke (CN3: adjusted HR 3.69 (95% CI 2.20-6.19); CN4: 2.71 (95% CI 1.11-6.64); CN6: 2.15 (95% CI 1.31-3.52)). The association between CN 3/4/6 palsies and ischemic stroke was detected in both separate subgroup and sensitivity analyses. Conclusions: The patients with CN 3/4/6 palsies exhibited an increased risk of developing ischemic stroke. Therefore, isolated ocular motor nerves palsies appear to represent an unrecognized risk factor for ischemic stroke, and these require further confirmation and exploration.
Periostin in the Cancer Stroma of Mycosis Fungoides Palmaris et Plantaris: A Case Report and Immunohistochemical Study
Authors: Tanita Kayo , Fujimura Taku , Kakizaki Aya , Furudate Sadanori , Mizuashi Masato , Watabe Akiko , Aiba Setsuya
Published: February 2016

Mycosis fungoides palmaris et plantaris (MFPP) is a rare variant of mycosis fungoides limited to the palms and soles. Although little is known about the pathogenesis of MFPP, this variant of mycosis fungoides presents a relatively good prognosis. In this report, we describe an 85-year-old Japanese man with MFPP. Immunohistochemical staining revealed the dense deposition of periostin in the cancer stroma, as well as infiltration of CD163+CD206- tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), which suggested the phenotypes of TAMs were not polarized to the M2 phenotype in the lesional skin of MFPP. Our present case might suggest one of the possible reasons for the good prognosis of MFPP.
Blood Pressure Is a Major Modifiable Risk Factor Implicated in Pathogenesis of Intraplaque Hemorrhage
Authors: Sun Jie , Canton Gador , Balu Niranjan , Hippe Daniel S. , Xu Dongxiang , Liu Jin , Hatsukami Thomas S. , Yuan Chun
Published: February 2016

Objective—

Effective prevention and management strategies of intraplaque hemorrhage (IPH) remain elusive because of our limited knowledge regarding its contributing factors. This hypothesis-generating study aimed to investigate associations between cardiovascular risk factors and IPH for improved understanding of the pathogenesis of IPH.

Approach and Results—

Asymptomatic subjects with 16% to 79% stenosis on ultrasound underwent carotid magnetic resonance imaging using a large-coverage, 3-dimensional magnetic resonance imaging protocol. Individual plaques (maximum thickness >1.5 mm) in bilateral carotid arteries were identified, and presence of IPH was determined. From 80 subjects, 176 de novo plaques were measured, of which 38 (21.6%) contained IPH. Blood pressure (BP), primarily low diastolic BP, was associated with IPH in multivariate analysis adjusted for age, sex, and plaque size (odds ratio with 95% confidence interval per 10-mm Hg increase: 0.51 [0.30–0.88]), which was little changed after adjusting for antihypertensive use and systemic atherosclerosis. Antiplatelet use was associated with IPH in age and sex-adjusted models (
P
=0.018), for which a trend remained after considering plaque size and past medical history (odds ratio for aspirin alone versus none: 3.1 [0.66–14.8]; odds ratio for clopidogrel or dual therapy versus none: 5.3 [0.80–35.0];
P
=0.083).

Conclusions—

Low diastolic BP was independently associated with IPH, which was not attributed to treatment difference or BP changes from systemic atherosclerosis. Hemodynamic changes from lowering diastolic BP may be the pathophysiological link. Prospective serial studies are needed to assess whether BP and antiplatelet use are associated with the development of new or repeated IPH.
Imaging and Baseline Predictors of Cognitive Performance in Minor Ischemic Stroke and Patients With Transient Ischemic Attack at 90 Days
Authors: Mandzia Jennifer L. , Smith Eric E. , Horton Myles , Hanly Patrick , Barber Philip A. , Godzwon Catherine , Donaldson Emily , Asdaghi Negar , Patel Shiel , Coutts Shelagh B.
Published: February 2016

Background and Purpose—

Few studies have examined predictors of cognitive impairment after minor ischemic stroke and transient ischemic attack (TIA). We examined clinical and imaging features associated with worse cognitive performance at 90 days.

Methods—

TIA or patients with minor stroke underwent neuropsychological testing 90 days post event.
Z
scores were calculated for cognitive tests, and then grouped into domains of executive function (EF), psychomotor processing speed (PS), and memory. White matter hyperintensity and diffusion-weighted imaging volumes were measured on baseline magnetic resonance imaging. Ninety-day outcomes included modified Rankin Scale (mRS) and Centre for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) score.

Results—

Ninety-two patients were included, 76% male, 54% TIA, and mean age 65.1±12.0. Sixty-four percent were diffusion-weighted imaging positive. Median domain
z
scores were not significantly different from published norms (
P
>0.05): memory −0.03, EF −0.12, and PS −0.05. Patient performance ≥1 SD below normal was 20% on memory, 16% on PS, and 17% on EF. Cognitive scores did not differ by diagnosis (stroke versus TIA), stroke pathogenesis, presence of obstructive sleep apnea, and diffusion-weighted imaging or white matter hyperintensity volumes. In multivariable analyses, lower EF was associated with previous cortical infarct on magnetic resonance imaging (
P
=0.03), mRS score of >1;
P
=0.0003 and depressive symptoms (CES-D ≥16;
P
=0.03). Lower PS scores were associated with previous cortical infarct (
P
=0.02), acute bilateral positive diffusion-weighted imaging (
P
=0.02), mRS score of >1 (
P
=0.003), and CES-D ≥16 (
P
=0.03).

Conclusions—

Despite average-range cognitive performance in this TIA and population with minor stroke, we found associations of EF and PS with evidence of previous stroke, postevent disability, and depression.
Polystemma canisferum (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae): a distinctive new gonoloboid milkweed vine from Sonora, Mexico
Authors: McDonnell Angela , Fishbein Mark
Published: February 2016

A new species from Sonora, Polystemma canisferum (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae, Gonolobinae), is described. Polystemma is a segregate of Matelea consisting of species that possess hairs that are filled with a crystalline substance at maturity, filiform or fleshy corona appendages, and fusiform fruits. The new species shares these characters but is distinguished by its unique, narrowly tubular-campanulate green corolla. Images and a distribution map are included.
Aspidistra yizhouensis sp. nov. (Asparagaceae) from limestone areas in Guangxi, China
Authors: PAN BO , LU ZHAO-CIN , MA HU-SHENG , LIN CHUN-RUI
Published: February 2016

A new species Aspidistra yizhouensis (Asparagaceae) is described and illustrated from limestone areas in central Guangxi, China. It is similar to Aspidistra fungilliformis, but has perianth urceolate, lobes yellow adaxially, pistil obconical, stigma upper surface purplish red and with 3 yellow, radial, bifurcate lines.
BAECC: A Field Campaign to Elucidate the Impact of Biogenic Aerosols on Clouds and Climate
Authors: Petäjä Tuukka , O’Connor Ewan J. , Moisseev Dmitri , Sinclair Victoria A. , Manninen Antti J. , Väänänen Riikka , von Lerber Annakaisa , Thornton Joel A. , Nicoll Keri , Petersen Walt , Chandrasekar V. , Smith James N. , Winkler Paul M. , Krüger Olaf , Hakola Hannele , Timonen Hilkka , Brus David , Laurila Tuomas , Asmi Eija , Riekkola Marja-Liisa , Mona Lucia , Massoli Paola , Engelmann Ronny , Komppula Mika , Wang Jian , Kuang Chongai , Bäck Jaana , Virtanen Annele , Levula Janne , Ritsche Michael , Hickmon Nicki
Published: February 2016

During Biogenic Aerosols—Effects on Clouds and Climate (BAECC), the U.S. Department of Energy’s Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) Program deployed the Second ARM Mobile Facility (AMF2) to Hyytiälä, Finland, for an 8-month intensive measurement campaign from February to September 2014. The primary research goal is to understand the role of biogenic aerosols in cloud formation. Hyytiälä is host to the Station for Measuring Ecosystem–Atmosphere Relations II (SMEAR II), one of the world’s most comprehensive surface in situ observation sites in a boreal forest environment. The station has been measuring atmospheric aerosols, biogenic emissions, and an extensive suite of parameters relevant to atmosphere–biosphere interactions continuously since 1996. Combining vertical profiles from AMF2 with surface-based in situ SMEAR II observations allows the processes at the surface to be directly related to processes occurring throughout the entire tropospheric column. Together with the inclusion of extensive surface precipitation measurements and intensive observation periods involving aircraft flights and novel radiosonde launches, the complementary observations provide a unique opportunity for investigating aerosol–cloud interactions and cloud-to-precipitation processes in a boreal environment. The BAECC dataset provides opportunities for evaluating and improving models of aerosol sources and transport, cloud microphysical processes, and boundary layer structures. In addition, numerical models are being used to bridge the gap between surface-based and tropospheric observations.
Strengthening of the Tropopause Inversion Layer during the 2009 Sudden Stratospheric Warming: A MERRA-2 Study
Authors: Wargan Krzysztof , Coy Lawrence
Published: February 2016

The behavior of the tropopause inversion layer (TIL) during the 2009 sudden stratospheric warming (SSW) is analyzed using NASA’s Modern-Era Retrospective Analysis for Research and Applications, version 2 (MERRA-2), and short-term simulations with the MERRA-2 general circulation model. Consistent with previous studies, it is found that static stability in a shallow layer above the polar tropopause sharply increases following the SSW, leading to a strengthening of the high-latitude TIL. Simultaneously, the height of the thermal tropopause decreases by around 1 km. Similar behavior is also detected during other major SSW events between the years 2004 and 2013. Using an ensemble of general circulation model forecasts initialized from MERRA-2, it is demonstrated that the primary cause of the strengthening of the TIL is an increased convergence of the vertical component of the stratospheric residual circulation in response to an SSW-induced acceleration of the mean downward motion between 75° and 90°N. In addition, ~6% of the strengthening in 2009 is attributed to an enhanced anticyclonic circulation at the tropopause. A preliminary analysis indicates that during other recent SSW events there was a significant increase in the convergence of the vertical residual wind velocity throughout the middle and lower stratosphere. The static stability increase simulated by the model during the 2009 SSW is 60%–80% of that seen in MERRA-2. The underestimate is traced back to a tendency for the forecasts to underestimate the resolved planetary wave forcing on the stratosphere compared to the reanalysis.
Coherent Tropical Indo-Pacific Interannual Climate Variability
Authors: Wieners Claudia E. , de Ruijter Will P. M. , Ridderinkhof Wim , von der Heydt Anna S. , Dijkstra Henk A.
Published: February 2016

A multichannel singular spectrum analysis (MSSA) applied simultaneously to tropical sea surface temperature (SST), zonal wind, and burstiness (zonal wind variability) reveals three significant oscillatory modes. They all show a strong ENSO signal in the eastern Pacific Ocean (PO) but also a substantial SST signal in the western Indian Ocean (IO). A correlation-based analysis shows that the western IO signal contains linearly independent information on ENSO. Of the three Indo-Pacific ENSO modes of the MSSA, one resembles a central Pacific (CP) El Niño, while the others represent eastern Pacific (EP) El Niños, which either start in the central Pacific and grow eastward (EPe) or start near Peru and grow westward (EPw). A composite analysis shows that EPw El Niños are preceded by cooling in the western IO about 15 months earlier. Two mechanisms are discussed by which the western IO might influence ENSO. In the atmospheric bridge mechanism, subsidence over the cool western IO in autumn (year 0) leads to enhanced convection above Indonesia, strengthening easterlies over the western PO, and the creation of a large warm water volume. This is essential for the creation of (EP) El Niños in the following spring–summer. In the state-dependent noise mechanism, a cool western IO favors a strong intraseasonal zonal wind variability over the western PO in early spring (year 1), which can partly be attributed to the Madden–Julian oscillation. This intraseasonal variability induces Kelvin waves, which in early spring lead to a strong warming of the eastern PO and can initiate EPw El Niños.
Hydrologic Evaluation of NWP-Adjusted CMORPH Estimates of Hurricane-Induced Precipitation in the Southern Appalachians
Authors: Zhang Xinxuan , Anagnostou Emmanouil N. , Vergara Humberto
Published: February 2016

Satellite-retrieved precipitation has the potential to support flood modeling in mountainous areas. However, to reach this potential satellite estimates need to be corrected for the severe underestimation exhibited in orography-induced heavy precipitation events (HPEs). This paper assesses an existing satellite precipitation error correction technique driven by high-resolution numerical weather prediction (NWP) simulations of HPEs in complex terrain. The study is based on NOAA Climate Prediction Center morphing technique (CMORPH) high-resolution precipitation estimates of six such events induced by hurricane landfalls in the southern Appalachian mountainous region. A distributed hydrological model (Coupled Routing and Excess Storage model) is applied to evaluate the impact of the proposed satellite precipitation error correction on flood simulations for 20 basins of various sizes in this mountainous region. The results demonstrate significant improvements due to the NWP-based adjustment technique in terms of both the precipitation error characteristics and corresponding runoff simulations. These improvements are shown to be comparable to those from the postprocessed gauge-adjusted CMORPH precipitation product, which is promising for advancing hydrologic uses of satellite rainfall in mountainous areas lacking ground observations.
Aerial Damage Survey of the 2013 El Reno Tornado Combined with Mobile Radar Data
Authors: Wakimoto Roger M. , Atkins Nolan T. , Butler Kelly M. , Bluestein Howard B. , Thiem Kyle , Snyder Jeffrey C. , Houser Jana , Kosiba Karen , Wurman Joshua
Published: February 2016

A detailed damage survey of the El Reno, Oklahoma, tornado of 31 May 2013 combined with rapid-scanning data recorded from two mobile radars is presented. One of the radars was equipped with polarimetric capability. The relationship between several suction vortices visually identified in pictures with the high-resolution Doppler velocity data and swath marks in fields is discussed. The suction vortices were associated with small shear features in Doppler velocity and a partial ringlike feature of high spectral width. For the first time, a suction vortex that created a swath mark in a field was visually identified in photographs and high-definition video while the rotational couplet was tracked by radar. A dual-Doppler wind synthesis of the tornadic circulation at low levels near the location of several storm chaser fatalities resolved ground-relative wind speeds in excess of 90 m s−1, greater than the minimum speed for EF5 damage. The vertical vorticity analysis revealed a rapid transition from a single tornadic vortex centered on the weak-echo hole (WEH) to suction vortices surrounding the WEH and collocated with the ring of enhanced radar reflectivities. Several bands/zones of enhanced convergence were resolved in the wind syntheses. One of the bands was associated with an internal or secondary rear-flank gust front. An inner band of convergence appeared to be a result of the positive bias in tornado-relative radial velocity owing to centrifuging of large lofted debris swirling within the tornado. An outer band of convergence formed at the northern edge of a region of strong inflow that was lofting small debris and dust into the storm.
Balance Disorders in the Elderly
Authors: Soto-Varela Andrés , Rossi-Izquierdo Marcos , Faraldo-García Ana , Vaamonde-Sánchez-Andrade Isabel , Gayoso-Diz Pilar , del-Río-Valeiras María , Lirola-Delgado Antonio , Santos-Pérez Sofía
Published: February 2016

Objectives:

To analyze the equilibriometric differences between 2 populations of elderly patients (young elderly and very elderly) with instability induced solely by age.

Methods:

Cross-sectional study, with 2 study groups classified according to patient age (cut-points in twenty-fifth and seventy-fifth percentiles of the age of the sample). Population: 64 patients aged 65 years or more. Two groups of 32 subjects were established: group A (people 65 years of age or older but less than 72.6, twenty-fifth percentile) and group B (patients 82.5 years, seventh-fifth percentile, or older). Main analyzed variables: timed up-and-go test, sensory organization test of the computerized dynamic posturography, Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI), and Short Falls Efficacy Scale-International (FES-I) questionnaires. Student’s t test or the Mann-Whitney test were used.

Results:

The older patients obtain poorer scores in the equilibriometric tests but not in all of them. In the sensory organization test, the older patients make poorer use of visual and vestibular information; they also require more time and steps for the timed up-and-go. With regards to the questionnaires, fear of falling is greater (higher Short FES-I scores) but not subjective perception of disability (DHI scores without differences).

Conclusions:

There is a need to establish aged subgroups of elderly patients with instability, adapting therapeutic strategies.
A Longitudinal Study of the Effects of Discrimination on the Acculturation Strategies of International Students
Authors: Ramos Miguel R. , Cassidy Clare , Reicher Stephen , Haslam S. Alexander
Published: February 2016

The current study investigated the impact of discrimination on the acculturation strategies of international students in the United Kingdom. In a longitudinal study that followed students ( N = 113) for 1 year, the authors drew on social identity theory to understand the processes by which discrimination affects their acculturation strategies. Specifically, the study examined an indirect effect by which perceived discrimination affects acculturation strategies through perceived permeability of group boundaries. Results showed that perceiving discrimination is associated with a perceived lack of permeability, which in turn results in avoiding the host society and simultaneously endorsing one’s own cultural background. Implications for international students and other cultural groups are discussed.
Enhancing Student Compositional Diversity in the Sociology Classroom
Authors: Lyon Katherine A. , Guppy Neil
Published: February 2016

It is well documented that interaction between diverse students encourages positive learning outcomes. Given this, we examine how to enhance the quantity and quality of student diversity in university classrooms. Drawing on sociological theory linking life experiences with ways of knowing, we investigate how to increase classroom diversity by considering when, where, and how courses are scheduled and delivered. Our focus on structural features of academic scheduling and classroom offerings in relation to compositional diversity is unique, complementing established individual-level approaches for diversity enhancement. Using data from 96 Introduction to Sociology courses offered at the University of British Columbia between 2004 and 2014, we demonstrate that course structure has significant influence on a variety of student diversity measures (age, academic year, student major, country of origin, domestic or international status, and gender). We conclude by discussing ways instructors can employ sociological insights to optimize the pedagogical possibilities and challenges of diverse classrooms.
The Impact of Mindfulness on Empathy, Active Listening, and Perceived Provisions of Emotional Support
Authors: Jones Susanne M. , Bodie Graham D. , Hughes Sam D.
Published: February 2016

Mindfulness has emerged as an important factor that assists people in regulating difficult emotions, but it is not yet known whether mindfulness plays a role in supportive communication. The current study examines whether mindfulness facets (describing, observing, nonjudging, aware acting, nonreacting) positively influence self-reported abilities to (a) discern more and less person-centered (PC) supportive messages and (b) facilitate reappraisals via two core cognitive factors, namely, empathy and active listening. College students with little or no meditation experience ( N = 183) completed an online survey. Mediation analyses showed that empathy and active listening partially mediated the relationship between two mindfulness facets (describing, observing) and the two perceptual outcome measures (PC message discriminations, facilitating reappraisals) by accounting for 33% and 62% of the variance. Additional structural equation modeling suggested that mindful observing and describing positively predicted empathy and active listening. Both mindful describing and nonjudging also positively predicted facilitating reappraisals. Interestingly, nonjudging negatively predicted empathy and active listening. The results point to mindfulness as an important factor that influences cognitive-affective processes in supportive communication.
The effects of source unreliability on prior and future word learning
Authors: Faught Gayle G. , Leslie Alicia D. , Scofield Jason
Published: February 2016

Young children regularly learn words from interactions with other speakers, though not all speakers are reliable informants. Interestingly, children will reverse to trusting a reliable speaker when a previously endorsed speaker proves unreliable. When later asked to identify the referent of a novel word, children who reverse trust are less willing to consider previously mislabeled objects. The current studies report two related findings. When later asked to identify the label of a novel object, children who reverse trust are less willing to consider previously misused words. When later asked to identify the referent of a novel word, children who reverse trust are less willing to endorse the testimony of the initially trusted but unreliable speaker – even when judged against a stranger. Overall, these findings suggest reversing trust has residual effects for elements involved in the original acquisition of misinformation (e.g. the mislabeled object, misused word, and originally trusted speaker), and these effects could undermine later word-learning efforts. Accounts of children who continue endorsing an unreliable speaker despite opposing testimony from a reliable speaker are also considered.
Advance care planning in motor neuron disease: A qualitative study of caregiver perspectives
Authors: Murray Leigh , Butow Phyllis N , White Kate , Kiernan Matthew C , D’Abrew Natalie , Herz Helen
Published: February 2016

Background:

Motor neuron disease is a fatal disease, characterised by progressive loss of motor function, often associated with cognitive deterioration and, in some, the development of frontotemporal dementia. Life-sustaining technologies are available (e.g. non-invasive ventilation and enteral nutrition) but may compromise quality of life for some patients. Timely commencement of ‘Advance Care Planning’ enables patients to participate in future care choices; however, this approach has rarely been explored in motor neuron disease.

Aim:

We aimed to investigate caregiver perspectives on the acceptability and impact of advance care planning, documented in a letter format, for patients with motor neuron disease and caregivers.

Design:

This is a qualitative cross-sectional study. Data were analysed by a narrative synthesis approach.

Participants and setting:

Structured interviews were held with 18 former caregivers of deceased patients with motor neuron disease. A total of 10 patients had created a disease-specific advanced directive, ‘Letter of Future Care’, and 8 had not.

Results:

A total of four global themes emerged: Readiness for death, Empowerment, Connections and Clarifying decisions and choices. Many felt the letter of future care was or would be beneficial, engendering autonomy and respect for patients, easing difficult decision-making and enhancing communication within families. However, individuals’ ‘readiness’ to accept encroaching death would influence uptake. Appropriate timing to commence advance care planning may depend on case-based clinical and personal characteristics.

Conclusion:

Advance care planning can assist patients to achieve a sense of control and ‘peace of mind’ and facilitates important family discussion. However, the timing and style of its introduction needs to be approached sensitively. Tools and strategies for increasing the efficacy of advance care planning for motor neuron disease should be evaluated and implemented.
Understanding social exclusion in elite professional service firms: field level dynamics and the ‘professional project’
Authors: Ashley Louise , Empson Laura
Published: February 2016

This article explores social exclusion in elite professional service firms (PSFs) through a qualitative study of six legal, accounting, investment banking and consulting firms. Employing a Bourdieusian perspective we find that all six firms privilege candidates with the same narrow forms of cultural capital, while acknowledging that this contradicts their professed commitment to social inclusion and recruiting the best ‘talent’. We find that this behaviour is enshrined within the habitus of elite firms. We argue that it represents an organizational strategy generated by a compulsion to achieve legitimacy in a specific field of London-based elite PSFs. We identify a ‘professional project’ of sorts, but argue that this can no longer be mapped on to the interests of a discrete occupational group. As such, we contribute to studies of elite reproduction and social stratification by focusing specifically on the role of elite professional organizations in the reproduction of inequality.
IL-6, IL-8, IP-10, MCP-1 and G-CSF are significantly increased in cerebrospinal fluid but not in sera of patients with central neuropsychiatric lupus erythematosus
Authors: Yoshio T , Okamoto H , Kurasawa K , Dei Y , Hirohata S , Minota S
Published: February 2016

Objective

To determine whether the intrathecal concentrations of cytokines/chemokines are associated with, or influenced by, serum concentrations in patients with central neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE), and to ascertain whether the increased production of cytokines/chemokines intrathecally relative to serum levels is associated with the presence of central NPSLE.

Methods

52 SLE patients (30 with central NPSLE and 22 with non-NPSLE), for whom the CSF and serum samples were obtained at the same time, were enrolled. 27 kinds of cytokine/chemokine concentrations other than IFN-α in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum samples were measured by Bio-Plex Pro Assays. IFN-α concentration and anti-ribosomal P protein antibody (anti-P) titres in CSF and serum samples were measured by ELISA.

Results

The mean concentrations of IL-6, IL-8, IP-10, MCP-1, G-CSF and GM-CSF were higher in the CSF than in the sera, respectively, while the mean concentrations of other 22 cytokines/chemokines, including RANTES and IFN-α, in the CSF were much lower than those in the sera, respectively. Furthermore, the concentrations of IL-6, IL-8, IP-10, MCP-1 and G-CSF in the CSF of the 30 patients with NPSLE were significantly higher than in the 22 patients with non-NPSLE ( p = 6.82 × 10−5, p = 0.00037, p = 0.0028, p = 0.00065, and p = 0.0001, respectively), while the concentration of GM-CSF in the CSF of the 30 patients with NPSLE was not significantly higher than in the 22 patients with non-NPSLE. Most importantly, the largest difference occurred in CSF IL-6 concentrations. A significant positive correlation between CSF anti-P titres and serum anti-P titres in 52 patients with SLE ( r = 0.6316, p = 6.44 × 10−6) was found, while no significant positive correlation was observed between CSF levels and serum levels of each cytokine/chemokine in the 52 SLE patients.

Conclusion

In central NPSLE the production of IL-6, IL-8, IP-10, MCP-1 and G-CSF might take place in the central nervous system (CNS). These increased CSF cytokines/chemokines along with anti-P might have a prerequisite role in the pathogenesis of central NPSLE.