bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor 2 Expression, Heterogeneity and Clinical Significance in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Han Nayoung , Kim Min A , Lee Hye Seung , Kim Woo Ho
Published: October 2015

Background: We aimed to evaluate the protein and mRNA expression of fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2) by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and mRNA in situ hybridization (ISH), respectively, and to assess the heterogeneity of FGFR2 expression in gastric cancer (GC). Methods: A tissue microarray containing 362 surgically resected GC tissues and 135 matched metastatic lymph nodes was evaluated using FGFR2b IHC and FGFR2 ISH. FGFR2 fluorescence ISH was also performed in 188 cases. Results: All FGFR2-amplified cases (5 of 188) showed FGFR2b protein and FGFR2 mRNA overexpression (p < 0.001), and FGFR2 amplification was not identified in FGFR2b IHC- and FGFR2 mRNA ISH-negative cases. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis revealed that FGFR2b protein and FGFR2 mRNA overexpression was significantly associated with a poor overall survival (p < 0.001 and p = 0.012, respectively), and multivariate analyses showed that FGFR2 mRNA overexpression was an independent biomarker of a poor overall survival. Intratumoral heterogeneity of FGFR2b protein and FGFR2 mRNA overexpression was observed in 5 of 9 (55.5%) and 18 of 21 (85.7%) cases, respectively. Discordant FGFR2b and FGFR2 expression results between primary and matched metastatic lymph nodes were observed in 5 of 9 (55.5%) and 4 of 14 (28.6%) cases, respectively. Conclusions: Intratumoral heterogeneity and discordant FGFR2b expression in primary tumors and metastatic lymph nodes are common in GC.
Knee Osteoarthritis in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Does Insulin Therapy Retard Osteophyte Formation?
Authors: Al-Jarallah Khaled , Shehab Diaa , Abdella Nabila , Al Mohamedy Hisham , Abraham Mini
Published: October 2015

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate whether or not radiographic changes observed in knee osteoarthritis (OA) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients on insulin therapy differed from those not on insulin. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed in 311 subjects: 211 T2DM patients and 100 without diabetes (controls) in Mubarak Hospital, Kuwait. Patients were categorized into 3 groups: T2DM patients not on insulin (G1, n = 99), T2DM patients on insulin (G2, n = 112) and a nondiabetic control group (G3, n = 100). Plain X-ray of both knees was used to assess the changes of knee OA and graded using the Kellegren-Lawrence scale (0-4) and the Osteoarthritis Research Society International Atlas grading scale (0-3). A total of 622 knee X-rays were evaluated. SPSS version 21.0 was used for data analysis. Results: A highly significant association (p < 0.0001) was observed for joint space narrowing (JSN) as well as for osteophyte formation between the three groups. Comparing G2 and G3, a highly significant association (p < 0.0001) was retained for JSN [201 (89.7%) vs. 199 (99.5%)] and for osteophyte formation [26 (11.7%) vs. 72 (36.0%)]. Comparing G1 and G2, significantly less osteophyte formation was noted in G2 patients compared to G1 patients [26 (11.7%) vs. 39 (19.7%), p = 0.02]. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the G2 group had less chance of osteophyte formation than either the G1 group or G3 control group (OR = 0.294, p = 0.008 and OR = 0.098, p < 0.001, respectively). Conclusion: Our findings show that T2DM patients with OA knees on insulin therapy have less radiographic osteophytes compared to T2DM patients not on insulin.
Lipopolysaccharide Induces Chronic Kidney Injury and Fibrosis through Activation of mTOR Signaling in Macrophages
Authors: Chen Huihui , Zhu Jiefu , Liu Yu , Dong Zheng , Liu Hong , Liu Yinghong , Zhou Xiang , Liu Fuyou , Chen Guochun
Published: October 2015

Background: Septic kidney injury is one of the most common complications in critically ill patients with a high risk of developing chronic kidney disease (CKD). Emerging data indicate that mammalian target of rapamyci (mTOR) signaling plays a major role in septic inflammation by regulating the immune response of macrophage. This study was designed to evaluate the role of mTOR signaling in kidney macrophages during endotoxemia-induced chronic kidney injury and subsequent fibrogenesis. Methods: Male C57BL/6 mice were used for all animal studies (n = 9 for each group). Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was injected intraperitoneally (1 mg/kg) every 2 days to induce persistent endotoxemia. Rapamycin (1 mg/kg·day) was administered to a subgroup of mice 1 day prior to LPS treatment and continued to termination of the experiment. In ex-vivo experiment, RAW264.7 cells were cultured and treated with LPS (2 µg/ml) for 48 h while a subgroup of cells were incubated in the presence of rapamycin (50 nmol) for 2 h. Results: Continuous administration of LPS resulted in progressive macrophage infiltration, tubular injury and collagen deposition in mice kidneys. Rapamycin markedly ameliorated LPS-induced kidney pathological changes. Expression of pS6K was rarely observed in normal kidney macrophages, but significantly increased with time by LPS treatment. In ex-vivo study, LPS induced prominent production of IL-1β and MCP-1 in cultured RAW264.7 cells, which was significantly suppressed by rapamycin. Conclusion: Taken together, our findings show that endotoxemia results in activation of mTOR signaling in macrophages, leading to progressive kidney inflammatory injuries and subsequent fibrosis. Our study may reveal a mechanism involved in the development of sepsis-associated CKD and kidney fibrosis.
Effects of Extended-Release Niacin on the Postprandial Metabolism of Lp(a) and ApoB-100–Containing Lipoproteins in Statin-Treated Men With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Ooi Esther M. , Watts Gerald F. , Chan Dick C. , Pang Jing , Tenneti Vijay S. , Hamilton Sandra J. , McCormick Sally P. , Marcovina Santica M. , Barrett P. Hugh R.
Published: October 2015

Objective—

The effects of extended-release niacin (ERN; 1–2 g/d) on the metabolism of lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) and apolipoprotein (apo) B-100–containing lipoproteins were investigated in 11 statin-treated white men with type 2 diabetes mellitus in a randomized, crossover trial of 12-weeks duration.

Approach and Results—

The kinetics of Lp(a) and very low–density lipoprotein (VLDL), intermediate-density lipoprotein, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) apoB-100 were determined following a standardized oral fat load (87% fat) using intravenous administration of D
3
-leucine, gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, and compartmental modeling. ERN significantly decreased fasting plasma total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglyceride concentrations. These effects were achieved without significant changes in body weight or insulin resistance. ERN significantly decreased plasma Lp(a) concentration (−26.5%) and the production rates of apo(a) (−41.5%) and Lp(a)-apoB-100 (−32.1%); the effect was greater in individuals with elevated Lp(a) concentration. ERN significantly decreased VLDL (−58.7%), intermediate-density lipoprotein (−33.6%), and LDL (−18.3%) apoB-100 concentrations and the corresponding production rates (VLDL, −49.8%; intermediate-density lipoprotein, −44.7%; LDL, −46.1%). The number of VLDL apoB-100 particles secreted increased in response to the oral fat load. Despite this, total VLDL apoB-100 production over the 10-hour postprandial period was significantly decreased with ERN (−21.9%).

Conclusions—

In statin-treated men with type 2 diabetes mellitus, ERN decreased plasma Lp(a) concentrations by decreasing the production of apo(a) and Lp(a)-apoB-100. ERN also decreased the concentrations of apoB-100–containing lipoproteins by decreasing VLDL production and the transport of these particles down the VLDL to LDL cascade. Our study provides further mechanistic insights into the lipid-regulating effects of ERN.
Platelet P2Y
12
Inhibitors Reduce Systemic Inflammation and Its Prothrombotic Effects in an Experimental Human Model
Authors: Thomas Mark R. , Outteridge Samuel N. , Ajjan Ramzi A. , Phoenix Fladia , Sangha Gurpreet K. , Faulkner Rachael E. , Ecob Rosemary , Judge Heather M. , Khan Haroon , West Laura E. , Dockrell David H. , Sabroe Ian , Storey Robert F.
Published: October 2015

Objective—

Clinical studies suggest that platelet P2Y
12
inhibitors reduce mortality from sepsis, although the underlying mechanisms have not been clearly defined in vivo. We hypothesized that P2Y
12
inhibitors may improve survival from sepsis by suppressing systemic inflammation and its prothrombotic effects. We therefore determined whether clopidogrel and the novel, more potent P2Y
12
inhibitor, ticagrelor, modify these responses in an experimental human model.

Approach and Results—

We randomized 30 healthy volunteers to ticagrelor (n=10), clopidogrel (n=10), or no antiplatelet medication (controls; n=10). We examined the effect of P2Y
12
inhibition on systemic inflammation, which was induced by intravenous injection of Escherichia
coli
endotoxin. Both P2Y
12
inhibitors significantly reduced platelet–monocyte aggregate formation and peak levels of major proinflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin-6, and chemokine (C–C motif) ligand 2. In contrast to clopidogrel, ticagrelor also significantly reduced peak levels of IL-8 and growth colony-stimulating factor and increased peak levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. In addition, ticagrelor altered leukocyte trafficking. Both P2Y
12
inhibitors suppressed D-dimer generation and scanning electron microscopy revealed that ticagrelor also suppressed prothrombotic changes in fibrin clot ultrastructure.

Conclusions—

Potent inhibition of multiple inflammatory and prothrombotic mechanisms by P2Y
12
inhibitors demonstrates critical importance of platelets as central orchestrators of systemic inflammation induced by bacterial endotoxin. This provides novel mechanistic insight into the lower mortality associated with P2Y
12
inhibitors in patients with sepsis in clinical studies.
Time-Dependent Computed Tomographic Perfusion Thresholds for Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: d’Esterre Christopher D. , Boesen Mari E. , Ahn Seong Hwan , Pordeli Pooneh , Najm Mohamed , Minhas Priyanka , Davari Paniz , Fainardi Enrico , Rubiera Marta , Khaw Alexander V. , Zini Andrea , Frayne Richard , Hill Michael D. , Demchuk Andrew M. , Sajobi Tolulope T. , Forkert Nils D. , Goyal Mayank , Lee Ting Y. , Menon Bijoy K.
Published: October 2015

Background and Purpose—

Among patients with acute ischemic stroke, we determine computed tomographic perfusion (CTP) thresholds associated with follow-up infarction at different stroke onset-to-CTP and CTP-to-reperfusion times.

Methods—

Acute ischemic stroke patients with occlusion on computed tomographic angiography were acutely imaged with CTP. Noncontrast computed tomography and magnectic resonance diffusion–weighted imaging between 24 and 48 hours were used to delineate follow-up infarction. Reperfusion was assessed on conventional angiogram or 4-hour repeat computed tomographic angiography.
T
max
, cerebral blood flow, and cerebral blood volume derived from delay-insensitive CTP postprocessing were analyzed using receiver–operator characteristic curves to derive optimal thresholds for combined patient data (pooled analysis) and individual patients (patient-level analysis) based on time from stroke onset-to-CTP and CTP-to-reperfusion. One-way ANOVA and locally weighted scatterplot smoothing regression was used to test whether the derived optimal CTP thresholds were different by time.

Results—

One hundred and thirty-two patients were included.
T
max
thresholds of >16.2 and >15.8 s and absolute cerebral blood flow thresholds of <8.9 and <7.4 mL·min
−1
·100 g
−1
were associated with infarct if reperfused <90 min from CTP with onset <180 min. The discriminative ability of cerebral blood volume was modest. No statistically significant relationship was noted between stroke onset-to-CTP time and the optimal CTP thresholds for all parameters based on discrete or continuous time analysis (
P
>0.05). A statistically significant relationship existed between CTP-to-reperfusion time and the optimal thresholds for cerebral blood flow (
P
<0.001; r=0.59 and 0.77 for gray and white matter, respectively) and
T
max
(
P
<0.001; r=−0.68 and −0.60 for gray and white matter, respectively) parameters.

Conclusions—

Optimal CTP thresholds associated with follow-up infarction depend on time from imaging to reperfusion.
Association of Dietary Protein Consumption With Incident Silent Cerebral Infarcts and Stroke
Authors: Haring Bernhard , Misialek Jeffrey R. , Rebholz Casey M. , Petruski-Ivleva Natalia , Gottesman Rebecca F. , Mosley Thomas H. , Alonso Alvaro
Published: October 2015

Background and Purpose—

The effect of dietary protein on the risk of stroke has shown inconsistent results. We aimed to evaluate the relationship of dietary protein sources with the risk of stroke and silent cerebral infarcts in a large community-based cohort.

Methods—

We studied 11601 adults (age, 45–64 years at baseline in 1987–1989) enrolled in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study, free of diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease. Dietary protein intake was assessed with validated food frequency questionnaires at baseline and after 6 years of follow-up. Incident stroke events were identified through hospital discharge codes and stroke deaths and physician-adjudicated through December 31, 2011. A subset of participants (n=653) underwent brain magnetic resonance imaging in 1993 to 1995 and in 2004 to 2006. Cox proportional hazard models and logistic regression were used for statistical analyses.

Results—

During a median follow-up of 22.7 years, there were 699 stroke events. In multivariable analyses, total, animal, and vegetable protein consumption was not associated with risk of stroke. Red meat consumption was associated with increased stroke risk, particularly ischemic events. The hazard ratios (95% confidence interval) for risk of ischemic stroke across ascending quintiles of red meat consumption were 1 (ref), 1.13 (0.85–1.49), 1.44 (1.09–1.90), 1.33 (0.99–1.79), and 1.47 (1.06–2.05);
P
trend
=0.01. No association of major dietary protein sources with silent cerebral infarcts was detected.

Conclusions—

This study supports the notion that consumption of red meat may increase the risk of ischemic stroke. No association between dietary protein intake and silent cerebral infarcts was found.
Predominance of Nonatherosclerotic Internal Elastic Lamina Calcification in the Intracranial Internal Carotid Artery
Authors: Vos Annelotte , Van Hecke Wim , Spliet Wim G.M. , Goldschmeding Roel , Isgum Ivana , Kockelkoren Remko , Bleys Ronald L.A.W. , Mali Willem P.T.M. , de Jong Pim A. , Vink Aryan
Published: October 2015

Background and Purpose—

Calcification of the intracranial internal carotid artery (iICA) is an independent risk factor for stroke. These calcifications are generally seen as manifestation of atherosclerosis, but histological investigations are limited. The aim of this study is to determine whether calcifications in the iICA are present in atherosclerotic plaques, or in other parts of the arterial wall.

Methods—

Thirty-nine iICAs were histologically assessed, using digital microscopy to quantify the amount of calcification in the different layers of the arterial wall.

Results—

Calcifications were found in the intima, around the internal elastic lamina and in the medial layer of the arterial wall. In 71% of the arteries, internal elastic lamina calcification contributed most to the total calcified cross-sectional surface area. Internal elastic lamina calcification was unrelated to the occurrence of atherosclerotic intimal lesions. Intimal calcifications were most often associated with atherosclerotic lesions, but also many noncalcified atherosclerotic lesions were found.

Conclusions—

In the iICA, calcifications are predominantly present around the internal elastic lamina, suggesting that this nonatherosclerotic type of calcification contributes to the previously observed increased risk of stroke in patients with iICA calcifications.
Prediction of Early Reperfusion From Repeated Arterial Spin Labeling Perfusion Magnetic Resonance Imaging During Intravenous Thrombolysis
Authors: Okazaki Shuhei , Griebe Martin , Gregori Johannes , Günther Matthias , Sauter-Servaes Johannes , Wolf Marc E. , Gass Achim , Hennerici Michael G. , Szabo Kristina , Kern Rolf
Published: October 2015

Background and Purpose—

There are few in vivo data on the pathophysiology of reperfusion during systemic thrombolysis. We monitored the time course of cerebral perfusion changes in patients during thrombolysis with repeated arterial spin labeling perfusion magnetic resonance imaging.

Methods—

Ten patients with proximal arterial occlusion within 4.5 hours after symptom onset were prospectively enrolled. All patients received intravenous thrombolysis during the magnetic resonance imaging examination. Repeated arterial spin labeling perfusion images were acquired during the 60-minute therapy and at follow-up after 24 to 72 hours. Clinical data, magnetic resonance imaging features, and cerebral perfusion changes were analyzed.

Results—

Before thrombolysis, arterial spin labeling hypoperfusion and fluid-attenuation inversion recovery vascular hyperintensity in the territory of the occluded arteries were observed in all patients. In 5 patients, extensive arterial transit artifacts (ATA) developed in the hypoperfused area. The ATA corresponded with fluid-attenuation inversion recovery vascular hyperintensities. All 5 patients who developed extensive ATA in the hypoperfused area had complete reperfusion after thrombolysis, whereas the 5 without extensive ATA showed no or only partial reperfusion (
P
<0.01). The development of ATA preceded the normalization of tissue perfusion.

Conclusions—

The development of ATA during thrombolysis is associated with early reperfusion after thrombolysis. arterial spin labeling assessment during intravenous thrombolysis has the potential to guide subsequent therapeutic strategies in patients with acute stroke.
Tordesillas and the Ottoman Caliphate: Early Modern Frontiers and the Renaissance of an Ancient Islamic Institution
Authors: Casale Giancarlo
Published: October 2015

This article revisits the question of the “Ottoman caliphate,” the doctrine defining the Ottoman sultan as the universal sovereign and protector of Muslims throughout the world in addition to the territorial ruler of the Ottoman Empire itself. In existing scholarship, a wide gap divides those who describe this doctrine as a construct of modernity, with a history that goes back no farther than the late eighteenth century, and those who maintain a direct line of transmission from the earlier Abbasid caliphate to the Ottoman dynasty. This article proposes an “early modern alternative” to these two opposing narratives, which acknowledges a dynamic history of reinvention for the caliphate but locates its rebirth not in the period of colonial modernity but rather in the sweeping reconfiguration of space, time, and sovereignty ushered in by the Treaty of Tordesillas in 1494.
Writing Women and the Nation in Diaspora Jung Chang’s Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China 在海外书写中国妇女与中国历史：论张戎 的《鸿：三代中国女人的故事
Authors: Peng Chunhui
Published: October 2015

Jung Chang’sWild Swans: Three Daughters of Chinaachieved spectacular success and received worldwide critical acclaim. The way that academic and non-academic circles in the West readily embrace it betrays an unqualified equation of the book to a reliable source of knowledge regarding Chinese culture and history. However, such a perception leaves out narrative politics and simplifies the multilayered process of writing in the diaspora. This paper argues that the book is a bicultural product, involving constant negotiation between the site of experience and the place of writing. First of all, it showcases essentialized national culture and history and managing trauma as symptoms of cultural deficiency. Secondly, it is retrospective memory, mediated by the author’s anglicized perspective. In conclusion, Chang’s book is illuminating about the triangular relationship between the diasporan intellectual, the homeland, and transnational memory space at the time of writing and publishing the book.
The Social Distance Scale, Emory S. Bogardus and Californian Interwar Migration Research Offside the Chicago School
Authors: Roesch Claudia
Published: October 2015

This paper investigates the Social Distance Scale as a method to measure the degree of resentment towards immigrant groups invented by the University of Southern California sociologist Emory S. Bogardus. It asks why it is the only theory emerging from the orbit of the Chicago School still in use today. First, it looks at how Bogardus’s research environment in Los Angeles differed from that of his mentor Robert E. Park in Chicago. Then, it examines how Bogardus’s involvement with the Methodist All Nations Foundation influenced his conceptualisation of social distance. Third, it asks how this approach differed methodologically from the Chicago School’s Assimilation Theory. It concludes that the reciprocal relationship between Bogardus’s research and his social involvement caused him to dissolve the scale from spatial and temporal settings and create a theory that became universally applicable.
Observed Atmospheric Coupling between Barents Sea Ice and the Warm-Arctic Cold-Siberian Anomaly Pattern
Authors: Sorokina Svetlana A. , Li Camille , Wettstein Justin J. , Kvamstø Nils Gunnar
Published: October 2015

The decline in Barents Sea ice has been implicated in forcing the “warm-Arctic cold-Siberian” (WACS) anomaly pattern via enhanced turbulent heat flux (THF). This study investigates interannual variability in winter [December–February (DJF)] Barents Sea THF and its relationship to Barents Sea ice and the large-scale atmospheric flow. ERA-Interim and observational data from 1979/80 to 2011/12 are used. The leading pattern (EOF1: 33%) of winter Barents Sea THF variability is relatively weakly correlated (r = 0.30) with Barents Sea ice and appears to be driven primarily by atmospheric variability. The sea ice–related THF variability manifests itself as EOF2 (20%, r = 0.60). THF EOF2 is robust over the entire winter season, but its link to the WACS pattern is not. However, the WACS pattern emerges consistently as the second EOF (20%) of Eurasian surface air temperature (SAT) variability in all winter months. When Eurasia is cold, there are indeed weak reductions in Barents Sea ice, but the associated THF anomalies are on average negative, which is inconsistent with the proposed direct atmospheric response to sea ice variability. Lead–lag correlation analyses on shorter time scales support this conclusion and indicate that atmospheric variability plays an important role in driving observed variability in Barents Sea THF and ice cover, as well as the WACS pattern.
Cloud Regime Variability over the Azores and Its Application to Climate Model Evaluation
Authors: Rémillard Jasmine , Tselioudis George
Published: October 2015

From its location on the subtropics–midlatitude boundary, the Azores is influenced by both the subtropical high pressure and the midlatitude baroclinic storm regimes and therefore experiences a wide range of cloud structures, from fair-weather scenes to stratocumulus sheets and deep convective systems. This work combines three types of datasets to study cloud variability in the Azores: a satellite analysis of cloud regimes, a reanalysis characterization of storminess, and a 19-month field campaign that occurred on Graciosa Island. Combined analysis of the three datasets provides a detailed picture of cloud variability and the respective dynamic influences, with emphasis on low clouds that constitute a major uncertainty source in climate model simulations. The satellite cloud regime analysis shows that the Azores cloud distribution is similar to the mean global distribution and can therefore be used to evaluate cloud simulation in global models. Regime analysis of low clouds shows that stratocumulus decks occur under the influence of the Azores high pressure system, while shallow cumulus clouds are sustained by cold-air outbreaks, as revealed by their preference for postfrontal environments and northwesterly flows. An evaluation of climate model cloud regimes from phase 5 of CMIP (CMIP5) over the Azores shows that all models severely underpredict shallow cumulus clouds, while most models also underpredict the occurrence of stratocumulus cloud decks. It is demonstrated that the regime analysis can assist in the selection of case studies representing specific climatological cloud distributions. With all the tools now in place, a methodology is suggested to better understand cloud–dynamics interactions and attempt to explain and correct climate model cloud deficiencies.
A Track Pattern–Based Seasonal Prediction of Tropical Cyclone Activity over the North Atlantic
Authors: Choi Woosuk , Ho Chang-Hoi , Kim Jinwon , Kim Hyeong-Seog , Feng Song , Kang KiRyong
Published: October 2015

A seasonal prediction model of tropical cyclone (TC) activities for the period August–October over the North Atlantic (NA) has been developed on the basis of TC track patterns. Using the fuzzy c-means method, a total of 432 TCs in the period 1965–2012 are categorized into the following four groups: 1) TCs off the U.S. East Coast, 2) TCs over the Gulf of Mexico, 3) TCs that recurve into the open ocean of the central NA, and 4) TCs that move westward in the southern NA. The model is applied to predict the four TC groups separately in conjunction with global climate forecasts from the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) Climate Forecast System, version 2 (CFSv2). By adding the distributions of the four TC tracks with precalculated weighting factors, this seasonal TC forecast model provides the spatial distribution of TC activities over the entire NA basin. Multiple forecasts initialized in six consecutive months from February to July are generated at monthly intervals to examine the applicability of this model in operational TC forecasting. Cross validations of individual forecasts show that the model can reasonably predict the observed TC frequencies over NA at the 99% confidence level. The model shows a stable spatial prediction skill, proving its advantage for forecasting regional TC activities several months in advance. In particular, the model can generate reliable information on regional TC counts in the near-coastal regions as well as in the entire NA basin.
Quantifying Streamflow Forecast Skill Elasticity to Initial Condition and Climate Prediction Skill
Authors: Wood Andrew W. , Hopson Tom , Newman Andy , Brekke Levi , Arnold Jeff , Clark Martyn
Published: October 2015

Water resources management decisions commonly depend on monthly to seasonal streamflow forecasts, among other kinds of information. The skill of such predictions derives from the ability to estimate a watershed’s initial moisture and energy conditions and to forecast future weather and climate. These sources of predictability are investigated in an idealized (i.e., perfect model) experiment using calibrated hydrologic simulation models for 424 watersheds that span the continental United States. Prior work in this area also followed an ensemble-based strategy for attributing streamflow forecast uncertainty, but focused only on two end points representing zero and perfect information about future forcings and initial conditions. This study extends the prior approach to characterize the influence of varying levels of uncertainty in each area on streamflow prediction uncertainty. The sensitivities enable the calculation of flow forecast skill elasticities (i.e., derivatives) relative to skill in either predictability source, which are used to characterize the regional, seasonal, and predictand variations in flow forecast skill dependencies. The resulting analysis provides insights on the relative benefits of investments toward improving watershed monitoring (through modeling and measurement) versus improved climate forecasting. Among other key findings, the results suggest that climate forecast skill improvements can be amplified in streamflow prediction skill, which means that climate forecasts may have greater benefit for monthly-to-seasonal flow forecasting than is apparent from climate forecast skill considerations alone. The results also underscore the importance of advancing hydrologic modeling, expanding watershed observations, and leveraging data assimilation, all of which help capture initial hydrologic conditions that are often the dominant influence on hydrologic predictions.
Identification of Range Overlaid Echoes Using Polarimetric Radar Measurements Based on a Fuzzy Logic Approach
Authors: Park S.-G. , Kim Ji-Hyeon , Ko Jeong-Seok , Lee Gyuwon
Published: October 2015

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) of South Korea operates two S-band dual-polarimetric radars, as of 2013, to manage water resources through quantitative rainfall estimations at the surface level. However, the radar measurements suffer from range ambiguity. In this study, an algorithm based on fuzzy logic is developed to identify range overlaid echoes using seven inputs: standard deviations of differential reflectivity SD(ZDR), differential propagation phase SD(ϕDP), correlation coefficient SD(ρHV) and spectrum width SD(συ), mean of ρHV and συ, and difference of ϕDP from the system offset ΔϕDP. An examination of the algorithm’s performance shows that these echoes can be well identified and that echoes strongly affected by second trip are highlighted by high probabilities, over 0.6; echoes weakly affected have probabilities from 0.4 to 0.6; and those with low probabilities, below 0.4, are assigned as echoes without range ambiguity. A quantitative analysis of a limited number of cases using the usual skill scores shows that when the probability of 0.4 is considered as a threshold for identifying the range overlaid echoes, they can be identified with a probability of detection of 90%, a false alarm rate of 6%, and a critical success index of 84%.
A Morphing-Based Technique for the Verification of Precipitation Forecasts
Authors: Han Fan , Szunyogh Istvan
Published: October 2015

This paper describes a morphing-based approach for the verification of precipitation forecasts. This approach employs a pyramid matching algorithm to morph the precipitation features in a forecast into features that match the related precipitation features in the verifying analysis (observations) as closely as possible. The algorithm computes an optical flow (vector field) that maps the original forecast features into the morphed forecast features. The optical flow also provides quantitative information about the error in the location of the forecast features. This information, combined with information about the error in the prediction of the total precipitation over the verification domain, is used to quantify the structure error in the precipitation forecast. The proposed approach has three novel aspects compared to the published morphing-based verification strategies. First, it imposes a constraint on the pyramid matching algorithm to prevent overconvergence toward strong precipitation features during morphing. Second, it introduces an objective criterion for the selection of the subsampling parameter to avoid splitting or distorting features due to an arbitrary maximum displacement limit. Third, the proposed definitions of the location and structure errors are new. The behavior of the proposed multivariate verification metrics is investigated by applications to both idealized and numerical forecast examples.
The Propaganda Machine Behind the Controversy Over Climate Science
Authors: Maxwell Richard , Miller Toby
Published: October 2015

The essay examines various communication strategies for advocating acceptance of climate science in the face of psychological and ideological impediments. It surveys some key literature, offers case studies of Lego, Shell, Greenpeace, Edelman, and public relations, and culminates with a hortatory logic based on the recent Papal encyclical. The focus is on issues pertaining to the United States but with examples and ideas from elsewhere.
Predictors of Symptom Development in Intermediate Carotid Artery Stenosis
Authors: Koklu Erkan , Yuksel Isa Oner , Arslan Sakir , Cagirci Goksel , Gencer Elif Sarionder , Koc Pinar , Cay Serkan , Kizilirmak Filiz , Esin Murat
Published: October 2015

Platelets play an important role in the pathogenesis of atherothrombosis. Platelet activation is associated with increased mean platelet volume (MPV) and platelet distribution width (PDW). In this study, we investigated the relation of MPV and PDW with the risk of stroke in patients with intermediate (50%-70%) carotid artery stenosis. A total of 254 patients (115 symptomatic and 139 asymptomatic) with intermediate carotid artery stenosis were enrolled in this study. Symptomatic and asymptomatic patients were compared in regard to MPV and PDW. Mean platelet volume was significantly greater in the symptomatic group compared with the asymptomatic group (11.1 and 9.4 fL, respectively; P < .001). Platelet distribution width was significantly greater in the symptomatic group compared with the asymptomatic group (15.0% and 11.9%, respectively; P < .001). Multivariate regression analysis showed that an MPV ≥10.2 fL and a PDW ≥14.3% were independent predictors of developing symptomatic carotid artery stenosis. Mean platelet volume and PDW are increased in the presence of symptomatic intermediate carotid artery stenosis. Increased MPV and PDW may be independent predictors of developing symptomatic carotid artery plaque.
Trust in the Workplace: The Role of Social Interaction Diversity in the Community and in the Workplace
Authors: Cui Victor , Vertinsky Ilan , Robinson Sandra , Branzei Oana
Published: October 2015

Extending the literature on social capital development in the community, this article examines the impact of diverse social interactions (in the community and the workplace) on the development of social trust in the workplace, and investigates whether their effects differ in individualistic and collectivistic cultures. Using survey data collected in Canada and China, the authors find that the diversity of one’s social interactions in the community is positively associated with one’s social trust in the workplace, and this relationship is not significantly different between the two cultures. Diversity of one’s social interactions in the workplace is also positively associated with one’s social trust in the workplace, though only in collectivistic cultures.
Oil, relative strength and civil war mediation
Authors: Clayton Govinda
Published: October 2015

Civil conflicts within oil-rich states tend to last longer but are less likely to be mediated and end in a peace agreement. This implies that oil-funded conflict is less likely to end through a mediated settlement, despite offering a greater opportunity for peaceful resolution. This article builds on this puzzle, focusing on the following research question: to what extent does the presence of non-lootable natural resources impact on the onset and outcome of civil war mediation? I argue that oil wealth raises the relative capacity of the incumbent, making it more challenging for insurgents to force mediation and gain the guarantees against defection that are needed to resolve the problem of credible commitment. This theory is tested on 319 civil conflict episodes between 1946 and 2004. The results support the argument that non-lootable natural resources exert a strong negative effect on both the onset and outcome of mediation. The analysis also reveals that the negative effect of petroleum wealth increases relative to a state’s hydrocarbon revenue (per capita). This is an important contribution to conflict research focused on natural resources that has previously overlooked the relationship between resource wealth and civil conflict management efforts.
Letters of rejection
Authors: Martín Eloísa
Published: October 2015

Having an article rejected is always an undesirable experience that all scholars have undergone, or will still go through, in their professional career. This editorial will present the main motives why a manuscript is rejected, soon after submission or during the review process. I have grouped these motives into structural issues, problems of formatting and problems of content, and suggest some alternatives to reduce the chances of having your manuscript rejected.
Much Better Than Thought: Observing with Galileo’s Telescopes
Authors: Vanin Gabriele
Published: October 2015

This article examines the telescopic observations made by Galileo Galilei, in a fresh and more thorough way. After reviewing the attribution to Galileo of the instruments of Museo Galileo in Florence, the optical analyses to which they have been subjected, the only direct observations that have been made with them, and the few prior experiments with replicas of these, the paper presents in detail my experiences in replicating all of Galileo’s observations (the most complete set ever made in this field), comparing them with what he reported for each celestial body. This work sheds new light on the nature and methods of the Galilean observations, and on Galileo’s telescopes, proving that they were more powerful, sophisticated, and manoeuvrable than was commonly thought.
Blackburn Cathedral: William Temple’s vision for a new see and cathedral finally fulfilled
Authors: Stockton Ian
Published: October 2015

William Temple had a primary role in the creation of the see and cathedral of Blackburn out of Manchester diocese in 1926. The current development of Blackburn Cathedral Court is a fulfilment of Temple’s vision for Lancashire, reinterpreted for a new era.
Coventry Cathedral: A theology of society
Authors: Watts Fraser
Published: October 2015

Coventry Cathedral in the 1960s developed a distinctive theology of society. There was not only a central focus on reconciliation but also a broader social theology that emphasized the theological interpretation of how God was at work in society as a whole. Coventry Cathedral made early contributions to a range of topics such as urban theology and ecological responsibility, and kept a close link between theological interpretation and practical ministry.
Canterbury Cathedral: Pilgrims and cathedrals as places of pilgrimage
Authors: Irvine Christopher
Published: October 2015

The word ‘pilgrimage’ is frequently pressed into service in cathedral circles, and is used to carry a considerable freight of meaning. This article examines pilgrimage in this context with special reference to Canterbury Cathedral with its long and on-going experience of pilgrimage.
Comorbid insomnia and cognitive behavior therapy
Authors: Chand Suma P
Published: October 2015

Insomnia most commonly presents comorbidly in association with medical and psychiatric disorders. Comorbid insomnia, however, remains under treated in the majority of patients. Concerns about drug interactions, adverse events, and dependence as well as the assumption that treating the insomnia as a secondary presentation that will resolve when the primary condition improves are all factors that contribute to the under treatment of comorbid insomnia. This article presents the growing research evidence that highlights the benefits and importance of targeting the insomnia that presents comorbidly with medical and psychiatric conditions utilizing the nonpharmacological and effective treatment of cognitive behavior therapy.
University Legitimacy and Student Compliance With Academic Dishonesty Codes
Authors: Reisig Michael D. , Bain Stacy N.
Published: October 2015

This study tests whether behavioral intentions to commit two forms of student academic dishonesty (i.e., cheating on exams and plagiarizing a paper) are related to perceived university legitimacy. Cross-sectional data from a university-based sample ( N = 502) are used to construct a three-dimensional, second-order confirmatory model of university legitimacy. The results from the ordinal logistic models show that students who perceive university authority as legitimate are less likely to express intentions to cheat on an exam, net of other known correlates of deviance and demographic factors. This finding holds when the Legitimacy Scale is disaggregated. When it comes to plagiarism, the effect of university legitimacy is null. Overall, the findings indicate that the explanatory scope of the process-based model extends rule breaking beyond criminal justice settings and that university authorities can curb student cheating by ensuring that their processes and procedures used to manage students are evenhanded.
Flow and structure of compatibilized Nylon12/natural rubber blend with functional copolymer
Authors: Saengthaveep Saravalee , Jana Sadhan C , Magaraphan Rathanawan
Published: October 2015

Polyamide12 (Nylon12)/natural rubber (NR) blend was prepared by melt mixing in a Brabender mixer using polystyrene/maleated natural rubber (PS/MNR) copolymer as a reactive compatibilizer. The influence of compatibilizer loading (1, 3, 5, 7, and 10 phr), shear rate (10–500 s−1), and temperature (200–220°C) on the flow properties (i.e., shear viscosity ( η), power law index, flow activation energy ( Ea), and extrudate swell) of (Nylon12/NR)/(PS/MNR) blends was investigated. The blends showed pseudoplastic behavior from an evident increase of shear stress and a reduction of η with increasing shear rate. The values of η and Ea of the blends were also found to increase with the compatibilizer loading. It suggests that PS/MNR copolymer functioned properly and enhanced the compatibility and interfacial interaction between Nylon12 matrix and NR domains via the formation of amide and succinimide linkages at the interfaces. This reactive compatibilization also caused in a reduction of extrudate swell apparently due to slower elastic recovery of polymer chains.
Explaining occupational injury rates between migrant and native workers in Taiwan, 1998–2011
Authors: You Su-Fen , Wong Yu-Feng
Published: October 2015

This study explains trends in occupational injury rates among migrant and native workers in Taiwan and evaluates the results of related regulatory protection policies for migrants between 1998 and 2011. Results indicate that the relative occupational injury rate between migrant and native workers dropped from 2.1 times to 1.1 times during the whole period; on average, the injury rates for migrant workers were 1.45 times higher compared with non-migrants. Although policies protecting migrants’ rights may have resulted in lower injury rates, the minimum wage policy has otherwise given rise to an increase in injury rates. We argue that governmental regulations regarding the monitoring and management of migrant workers’ safety have been only loosely enforced under the guest-worker policy.
Implications of Observability for the Theory and Measurement of Emergent Team Phenomena
Authors: Carter Nathan T. , Carter Dorothy R. , DeChurch Leslie A.
Published: October 2015

Many of the most pivotal mechanisms of team success are emergent phenomena—constructs with conceptual origins at the individual level that coalesce over time through members’ interactions to characterize a team as a whole. Typically, empirical research on teams represents emergent mechanisms as the aggregate of members’ self-report perceptions of the team. This dominant approach assumes members have developed a perception of the emergent property and are able to respond accurately to survey items. Yet emergent phenomena require sufficient time and team interaction before coalescing as perceptible team properties. Attempting to measure an emergent property before it is perceptible can result in inaccurate assessments and substantive conclusions. Therefore, a key purpose of this study is to develop a better understanding of the underlying characteristics of emergent team phenomena that give rise to their emergence as perceptible and, thus, accurately measurable team characteristics. We advance a conceptual framework that classifies emergent team properties on the basis of the degree to which the construct manifests in overtly observable behaviors, positing that more observable emergent team phenomena require less interaction before emerging as ratable team properties compared to constructs that are less easily observed. Leveraging advances in measurement modeling, we test our conceptual framework in a laboratory sample and a quasi–field study sample, demonstrating a multilevel measurement approach that evaluates the emergence of shared team properties across measurement occasions. Results suggest the observability of emergent team properties is a crucial determinant of the relative speed at which constructs emerge as recognizable, ratable properties of the team.
The Syrian Golden Hamster Estrous Cycle
Authors: Chanut Franck J. A. , Williams Ann M.
Published: October 2015

The Syrian hamster, Mesocricetus auratus, is a suitable rodent species for standard regulatory toxicity studies. However, little is published about the female Syrian hamster reproductive system. It has unique anatomic features that differ from the other rodent species. In the hamster, the upper cervix is composed of 2 canals and the vagina shows 2 lateral pouches where keratin debris accumulates. These pouches must be distinguished from the vagina in order to stage the estrous cycle properly. The microscopic changes occurring during all the estrous cycle stages show some differences with the other rodents, the lower cervix and upper vagina presenting the more dramatic changes. The aim of this work was to produce a practical guide to staging the cycle and to highlight some of the differences between the rat and hamster reproductive system.
Hepatic Phospholipidosis Is Associated with Altered Hepatobiliary Function as Assessed by Gadoxetate Dynamic Contrast–enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Lenhard Stephen C. , Lev Mally , Webster Lindsey O. , Peterson Richard A. , Goulbourne Christopher N. , Miller Richard T. , Jucker Beat M.
Published: October 2015

To determine if amiodarone induces hepatic phospholipidosis (PLD) sufficient to detect changes in hepatobiliary transporter function as assessed by gadoxetate dynamic contrast–enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI), rats were orally dosed with vehicle (1% methyl cellulose) or amiodarone (300 mg/kg/day) for 7 consecutive days. Gadoxetate DCE-MRI occurred at baseline, day 7, and following a 2-week washout of amiodarone. At day 7, the gadoxetate washout rate was significantly decreased compared to the vehicle group. Blood chemistry analysis revealed no significant changes in liver enzymes (alanine aminotransferase [ALT]/aspartate aminotransferase [AST]/alkaline phosphatase [ALP]), bilirubin, or bile acids between vehicle or amiodarone groups. Hepatic PLD was confirmed in all rats treated with amiodarone at day 7 by transmission electron microscopy. Following the 2-week washout, there was no ultrastructural evidence of hepatic PLD in rats and the gadoxetate washout rate returned to baseline levels. This is the first study to show the application of gadoxetate DCE-MRI to detect hepatobiliary functional changes associated with PLD and offer a potential new technique with clinical utility in patients suspected of having PLD. These results also suggest PLD itself has functional consequences on hepatobiliary function in the absence of biomarkers of toxicity, given the cause/effect relationship between PLD and function has not been fully established.