bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the number of arithmetic formulas
Authors: Sanna Carlo
Published: October 2014

For each positive integers n, let g(n) be the number of arithmetic expressions evaluating to n and involving only the constant 1, additions and multiplications, with the restriction that multiplication by 1 is not allowed. We consider two arithmetic expressions to be equal if one can be obtained from the other through a repeated application of the commutative and associative properties. We give an algorithm to compute g(n) and prove that [Formula: see text], as n → +∞, where β ≔ log(24)/24.
Quantitative evaluation of enhanced laser tattoo removal by skin optical clearing
Authors: Liu Caihua , Shi Rui , Chen Min , Zhu Dan
Published: October 2014

Lasers have been widely used for tattoo removal, but the limited light penetration depth caused by high skin scattering property restricts the therapeutic outcome of deep tattoo. Skin optical clearing method, by introducing optical clearing agent (OCA) into skin, has shown some improvement in the effect of laser tattoo removal. In this study, the enhanced laser tattoo removal has been quantitatively assessed. OCA was applied to the skin of tattoo animal model and Q-switched Nd:YAG laser (1064 nm) irradiation was used to remove the tattoo. The skin evaluation instrument (Mexameter probe, MPA580) was applied to measure the content of tattoo pigment before and after laser treatment, and then the clearance rate of pigment was calculated. Further, Monte Carlo (MC) method was utilized to simulate the effect of skin optical clearing on light transmission in tattoo skin model. By comparing the pigment change of tattoo areas respectively treated with OCA plus laser and single laser, it was found that pigment clearance of the former tattoo area was increased by 1.5-fold. Further, the MC simulation verified that the reduced light scattering in skin could increase the effective dose of luminous flux reaching to the deep tattoo regions. It can be concluded from both experiment and theoretical simulations that skin optical clearing technique could improve the outcome of laser tattoo removal, which should be beneficial for clinical laser tattoo removal and other laser pigment elimination.
The Psychology of Environmental Decisions
Authors: Newell Ben R. , McDonald Rachel I. , Brewer Marilynn , Hayes Brett K.
Published: October 2014

Humanity faces an unprecedented set of global environmental problems. We argue that to promote pro-environmental decisions and to achieve public consensus on the need for action we must address individual and collective understanding (cognition) of environmental problems, as well as individual and collective commitments to take action to mitigate or prevent those problems. We review literature pertaining to psychological predispositions, mental models, framing, psychological distance, and the social context of decisions that help elucidate how these goals of cognition and commitment can be achieved. This article reveals the complex and multiply determined nature of environmental decisions. However, we argue that this complexity points to opportunities to reduce the inherent uncertainty surrounding global environmental challenges via appeals to the psychological mechanisms that underpin our decisions.
Activation of the umami taste receptor (T1R1/T1R3) initiates the peristaltic reflex and pellet propulsion in the distal colon
Authors: Kendig Derek M. , Hurst Norman R. , Bradley Zachary L. , Mahavadi Sunila , Kuemmerle John F. , Lyall Vijay , DeSimone John , Murthy Karnam S. , Grider John R.
Published: October 2014

Intraluminal nutrients in the gut affect the peristaltic reflex, although the mechanism is not well defined. Recent evidence supports the presence of taste receptors and their signaling components in enteroendocrine cells, although their function is unclear. This study aimed to determine if nutrients modify colonic motility through activation of taste receptors. Colonic sections were immunostained for the umami taste receptor T1R1/T1R3, which mediates the response to umami ligands, such as monosodium glutamate (MSG), in taste cells. Ascending contraction, descending relaxation, and calcitonin gene-related peptide release were measured in three-chamber flat-sheet preparations of rat colon in response to MSG alone or with inosine 5′-monophosphate (IMP). Velocity of artificial fecal pellet propulsion was measured by video recording in guinea pig distal colon. T1R1/T1R3 receptors were present in enteroendocrine cells of colonic sections from human, rat, mouse, and guinea pig. MSG initiated ascending contraction and descending relaxation components of the peristaltic reflex and calcitonin gene-related peptide release in flat-sheet preparations. IMP augmented the MSG-induced effects, suggesting activation of T1R1/T1R3 receptors. In T1R1−/− mice, mucosal stroking, but not MSG, elicited a peristaltic reflex. Intraluminal perfusion of MSG enhanced the velocity of artificial fecal pellet propulsion, which was also augmented by IMP. Propulsion was also increased by l-cysteine, but not l-tryptophan, supporting a role of T1R1/T1R3 receptors. We conclude that T1R1/T1R3 activation by luminal MSG or l-cysteine elicits a peristaltic reflex and CGRP release and increases the velocity of pellet propulsion in distal colon. This mechanism may explain how nutrients regulate colonic propulsion.
Test of the Starling resistor model in the human upper airway during sleep
Authors: Wellman Andrew , Genta Pedro R. , Owens Robert L. , Edwards Bradley A. , Sands Scott A. , Loring Stephen H. , White David P. , Jackson Andrew C. , Pedersen Ole F. , Butler James P.
Published: October 2014

The human pharyngeal airway during sleep is conventionally modeled as a Starling resistor. However, inspiratory flow often decreases with increasing effort (negative effort dependence, NED) rather than remaining fixed as predicted by the Starling resistor model. In this study, we tested a major prediction of the Starling resistor model—that the resistance of the airway upstream from the site of collapse remains fixed during flow limitation. During flow limitation in 24 patients with sleep apnea, resistance at several points along the pharyngeal airway was measured using a pressure catheter with multiple sensors. Resistance between the nose and the site of collapse (the upstream segment) was measured before and after the onset of flow limitation to determine whether the upstream dimensions remained fixed (as predicted by the Starling resistor model) or narrowed (a violation of the Starling resistor model). The upstream resistance from early to mid inspiration increased considerably during flow limitation (by 35 ± 41 cmH2O·liter−1·s−1, P < 0.001). However, there was a wide range of variability between patients, and the increase in upstream resistance was strongly correlated with the amount of NED ( r = 0.75, P < 0.001). Therefore, patients with little NED exhibited little upstream narrowing (consistent with the Starling model), and patients with large NED exhibited large upstream narrowing (inconsistent with the Starling model). These findings support the idea that there is not a single model of pharyngeal collapse, but rather that different mechanisms may dominate in different patients. These differences could potentially be exploited for treatment selection.
Cardiac troponin I Pro82Ser variant induces diastolic dysfunction, blunts β-adrenergic response, and impairs myofilament cooperativity
Authors: Ramirez-Correa Genaro A. , Frazier Aisha H. , Zhu Guangshuo , Zhang Pingbo , Rappold Thomas , Kooij Viola , Bedja Djahida , Snyder Greg A. , Lugo-Fagundo Nahyr S. , Hariharan Raena , Li Yuejin , Shen Xiaoxu , Gao Wei Dong , Cingolani Oscar H. , Takimoto Eiki , Foster D. Brian , Murphy Anne M.
Published: October 2014

Troponin I (TnI) variant Pro82Ser (cTnIP82S) was initially considered a disease-causing mutation; however, later studies suggested the contrary. We tested the hypothesis of whether a causal link exists between cTnIP82S and cardiac structural and functional remodeling, such as during aging or chronic pressure overload. A cardiac-specific transgenic (Tg) mouse model of cTnIP82S was created to test this hypothesis. During aging, Tg cTnIP82S displayed diastolic dysfunction, characterized by longer isovolumetric relaxation time, and impaired ejection and relaxation time. In young, Tg mice in vivo pressure-volume loops and intact trabecular preparations revealed normal cardiac contractility at baseline. However, upon β-adrenergic stimulation, a blunted contractile reserve and no hastening in left ventricle relaxation were evident in vivo, whereas, in isolated muscles, Ca2+ transient amplitude isoproterenol dose-response was blunted. In addition, when exposed to chronic pressure overload, Tg mice show exacerbated hypertrophy and decreased contractility compared with age-matched non-Tg littermates. At the molecular level, this mutation significantly impairs myofilament cooperative activation. Importantly, this occurs in the absence of alterations in TnI or myosin-binding protein C phosphorylation. The cTnIP82S variant occurs near a region of interactions with troponin T; therefore, structural changes in this region could explain its meaningful effects on myofilament cooperativity. Our data indicate that cTnIP82S mutation modifies age-dependent diastolic dysfunction and impairs overall contractility after β-adrenergic stimulation or chronic pressure overload. Thus cTnIP82S variant should be regarded as a disease-modifying factor for dysfunction and adverse remodeling with aging and chronic pressure overload.
Bioactive Prolactin Levels and Risk of Breast Cancer: A Nested Case–Control Study
Authors: Tworoger Shelley S. , Rice Megan S. , Rosner Bernard A. , Feeney Yvonne B. , Clevenger Charles V. , Hankinson Susan E.
Published: October 2014

Background: Prolactin is a lactogenic hormone associated with breast cancer risk in prospective studies, which used immunoassays. The immunoassay captures multiple isoforms and may not fully reflect the biologic activity of prolactin relevant to breast carcinogenesis.

Methods: We considered plasma bioactive prolactin levels measured by the Nb2 lymphoma cell bioassay, which is sensitive to the somatolactogenic activity of prolactin and growth hormone, within a nested case–control study of invasive breast cancer in the Nurses' Health Studies (NHS/NHSII). We also considered associations with breast cancer risk factors.

Results: We had bioassay measures on 1,329 cases and 1,329 controls. Bioassay levels were inversely associated with parity (4+ vs. 0 children = −18%, P = 0.01), body mass index (30+ vs. <22 kg/m2 = −16%, P < 0.01), and age at menopause (53+ vs. 48 years = −18%, P = 0.03) and positively with family history of breast cancer (yes vs. no = 14%, P < 0.01). The relative risk (RR) comparing the top versus bottom quartile of bioassay levels was 1.19 [95% confidence intervals (CI), 0.94–1.51; Ptrend = 0.18]. The association was suggestively stronger for postmenopausal (RR = 1.36; 95% CI, 0.93–1.98; Ptrend = 0.12) versus premenopausal women (RR = 0.99; 95% CI, 0.71–1.37; Ptrend = 0.71). There was an association for cases diagnosed <4 years after blood draw (RR = 2.66; 95% CI, 1.45–4.89; Ptrend < 0.01), but not for cases diagnosed later. We did not observe differential associations by estrogen receptor status or other tumor characteristics.

Conclusions: Our results show similar associations for prolactin levels measured by bioassay and by immunoassay with both breast cancer risk factors and risk.

Impact: Future work examining risk prediction model of breast cancer can use the immunoassay to accurately characterize risk. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 24(1); 73–80. ©2014 AACR.
Dual Disruption of DNA Repair and Telomere Maintenance for the Treatment of Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Lajud Shayanne A. , Nagda Danish A. , Yamashita Taku , Zheng Jun , Tanaka Nobuaki , Abuzeid Waleed M. , Civantos Alyssa , Bezpalko Orysia , O'Malley Bert W. , Li Daqing
Published: October 2014

Purpose: Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerases (PARP) and the Mre11, Rad50, and Nbs1 (MRN) complex are key regulators of DNA repair, and have been recently shown to independently regulate telomere length. Sensitivity of cancers to PARPi is largely dependent on the BRCAness of the cells. Unfortunately, the vast majority of cancers are BRCA-proficient. In this study, therefore, we investigated whether a targeted molecular “hit” on the MRN complex, which is upstream of BRCA, can effectively sensitize BRCA-proficient head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) to PARP inhibitor (PARPi).

Experimental Design: Human HNSCC cell lines and a mouse model with HNSCC xenografts were used in this study. In vitro and in vivo studies were conducted to evaluate the effects and underlying mechanisms of dual molecular disruption of PARP and the MRN complex, using a pharmacologic inhibitor and a dominant-negative Nbs1 expression vector, respectively.

Results: Our findings demonstrate that downregulation of the MRN complex disrupts homologous recombination, and, when combined with PARPi, leads to accumulation of lethal DNA double-strand breaks. Moreover, we show that PARPi and MRN complex disruption induces significantly shortening telomere length. Together, our results demonstrate that dual disruption of these pathways causes significant cell death in BRCA-proficient tumor cells both in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusion: Our study, for the first time, elucidates a novel mechanism for MRN complex and PARP inhibition beyond DNA repair, demonstrating the feasibility of a dual disruption approach that extends the utility of PARPi to the treatment of BRCA-proficient cancers. Clin Cancer Res; 20(24); 6465–78. ©2014 AACR.
A Phase I Dose Escalation and Expansion Study of the Anticancer Stem Cell Agent Demcizumab (Anti-DLL4) in Patients with Previously Treated Solid Tumors
Authors: Smith David C. , Eisenberg Peter D. , Manikhas Georgy , Chugh Rashmi , Gubens Matthew A. , Stagg Robert J. , Kapoun Ann M. , Xu Lu , Dupont Jakob , Sikic Branimir
Published: October 2014

Purpose: This phase I trial evaluated the safety, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of demcizumab (OMP-21M18), a humanized IgG2 mAb targeting the Notch ligand DLL4 in adult patients with advanced malignancies.

Experimental Design: Standard 3+3 design, with demcizumab 0.5, 1, 2.5, or 5 mg/kg weekly or 2.5, 5, or 10 mg/kg every other week, with an expansion cohort at 10 mg/kg every other week. Dose-limiting toxicities (DLT) were assessed during the first 28 days.

Results: Fifty-five patients received demcizumab (15 weekly, 18 every other week, 21 expansion cohort, 1 loading dose). No more than one DLT was seen at any dose level. The MTD was not reached for either schedule. Treatment-related adverse events occurring in >10% of patients were hypertension or blood pressure increased (47%), fatigue (31%), anemia (22%), headache (20%), nausea (13%), hypoalbuminemia (11%), dizziness (11%), and dyspnea (11%). One patient dosed at 2.5 mg/kg developed reversible right-sided heart failure after 63 days on treatment and 4 dosed at 10 mg/kg developed congestive heart failure after ≥98 days on treatment. Five patients were hospitalized with bleeding episodes (2 episodes of tumor-associated bleeding). Sixteen of 25 (64%) evaluable patients at 10 mg/kg had evidence of stabilization of disease or response.

Conclusion: Demcizumab was generally well tolerated at doses ≤5 mg weekly with disease stabilization and decreases in tumor size demonstrating antitumor activity. Hypertension was the most common adverse event that was clearly related to treatment. Prolonged administration was associated with an increased risk of congestive heart failure. Clin Cancer Res; 20(24); 6295–303. ©2014 AACR.
miR-154* and miR-379 in the DLK1-DIO3 MicroRNA Mega-Cluster Regulate Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition and Bone Metastasis of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Gururajan Murali , Josson Sajni , Chu Gina Chia-Yi , Lu Chia-Lun , Lu Yi-Tsung , Haga Christopher L. , Zhau Haiyen E. , Liu Chunyan , Lichterman Jake , Duan Peng , Posadas Edwin M. , Chung Leland W.K.
Published: October 2014

Purpose: MicroRNAs in the delta-like 1 homolog–deiodinase, iodothyronine 3 (DLK1-DIO3) cluster have been shown to be critical for embryonic development and epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT). DLK1-DIO3 cluster miRNAs are elevated in the serum of patients with metastatic cancer. However, the biologic functions of these miRNAs in the EMT and metastasis of cancer cells are poorly understood. We previously demonstrated the oncogenic and metastatic role of miR-409-3p/5p, a member of this cluster, in prostate cancer. In this study, we defined the role of miR-154* and miR-379, two key members of this cluster, in prostate cancer progression and bone metastasis in both cell line models and clinical specimens.

Experimental Design: Genetic manipulation of miR-154* and miR-379 was performed to determine their role in tumor growth, EMT, and bone metastasis in mouse models. We determined the expression of miR-154* in prostate cancer clinical samples and bone metastasis samples using in situ hybridization and quantum dot labeling.

Results: Elevated expression of miR-154* and miR-379 was observed in bone metastatic prostate cancer cell lines and tissues, and miR-379 expression correlated with progression-free survival of patients with prostate cancer. Intracardiac inoculation (to mimic systemic dissemination) of miR-154* inhibitor-treated bone metastatic ARCaPM prostate cancer cells in mice led to decreased bone metastasis and increased survival.

Conclusion: miR-154* and miR-379 play important roles in prostate cancer biology by facilitating tumor growth, EMT, and bone metastasis. This finding has particular translational importance because miRNAs in the DLK1-DIO3 cluster can be attractive biomarkers and possible therapeutic targets to treat bone metastatic prostate cancer. Clin Cancer Res; 20(24); 6559–69. ©2014 AACR.
Prospective Blinded Study of BRAFV600E Mutation Detection in Cell-Free DNA of Patients with Systemic Histiocytic Disorders
Authors: Hyman David M. , Diamond Eli L. , Vibat Cecile Rose T. , Hassaine Latifa , Poole Jason C. , Patel Minal , Holley Veronica R. , Cabrilo Goran , Lu Timothy T. , Arcila Maria E. , Chung Young Rock , Rampal Raajit , Lacouture Mario E. , Rosen Neal , Meric-Bernstam Funda , Baselga José , Kurzrock Razelle , Erlander Mark G. , Janku Filip , Abdel-Wahab Omar
Published: October 2014

Patients with Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) and Erdheim–Chester disease (ECD) have a high frequency of BRAFV600E mutations and respond to RAF inhibitors. However, detection of mutations in tissue biopsies is particularly challenging in histiocytoses due to low tumor content and stromal contamination. We applied a droplet-digital PCR assay for quantitative detection of the BRAFV600E mutation in plasma and urine cell-free (cf) DNA and performed a prospective, blinded study in 30 patients with ECD/LCH. There was 100% concordance between tissue and urinary cfDNA genotype in treatment-naïve samples. cfDNA analysis facilitated identification of previously undescribed KRASG12S-mutant ECD and dynamically tracked disease burden in patients treated with a variety of therapies. These results indicate that cfDNA BRAFV600E mutational analysis in plasma and urine provides a convenient and reliable method of detecting mutational status and can serve as a noninvasive biomarker to monitor response to therapy in LCH and ECD.

Significance: Patients with BRAFV600E-mutant histiocytic disorders have remarkable responses to RAF inhibition, but mutation detection in tissue in these disorders is challenging. Here, we identify that analysis of plasma and urinary cfDNA provides a reliable method to detect the BRAFV600E mutation and monitor response to therapy in these disorders. Cancer Discov; 5(1); 64–71. ©2014 AACR.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1
MicroRNA miR145 Regulates TGFBR2 Expression and Matrix Synthesis in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Zhao Ning , Koenig Sara N. , Trask Aaron J. , Lin Cho-Hao , Hans Chetan P. , Garg Vidu , Lilly Brenda
Published: October 2014

Rationale:

MicroRNA miR145 has been implicated in vascular smooth muscle cell differentiation, but its mechanisms of action and downstream targets have not been fully defined.

Objective:

Here, we sought to explore and define the mechanisms of miR145 function in smooth muscle cells.

Methods and Results:

Using a combination of cell culture assays and in vivo mouse models to modulate miR145, we characterized its downstream actions on smooth muscle phenotypes. Our results show that the
miR-143/145
gene cluster is induced in smooth muscle cells by coculture with endothelial cells. Endothelial cell–induced expression of
miR-143/145
is augmented by Notch signaling and accordingly expression is reduced in Notch receptor–deficient cells. Screens to identify miR145-regulated genes revealed that the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β pathway has a significantly high number of putative target genes, and we show that TGFβ receptor II is a direct target of miR145. Extracellular matrix genes that are regulated by TGFβ receptor II were attenuated by miR145 overexpression, and
miR145
mutant mice exhibit an increase in extracellular matrix synthesis. Furthermore, activation of TGFβ signaling via angiotensin II infusion revealed a pronounced fibrotic response in the absence of miR145.

Conclusions:

These data demonstrate a specific role for miR145 in the regulation of matrix gene expression in smooth muscle cells and suggest that miR145 acts to suppress TGFβ-dependent extracellular matrix accumulation and fibrosis, while promoting TGFβ-induced smooth muscle cell differentiation. Our findings offer evidence to explain how TGFβ signaling exhibits distinct downstream actions via its regulation by a specific microRNA.
The Mitochondrial Dynamism-Mitophagy-Cell Death Interactome
Authors: Dorn Gerald W. , Kitsis Richard N.
Published: October 2014

Mitochondrial research is experiencing a renaissance, in part, because of the recognition that these endosymbiotic descendants of primordial protobacteria seem to be pursuing their own biological agendas. Not only is mitochondrial metabolism required to produce most of the biochemical energy that supports their eukaryotic hosts (us) but mitochondria can actively (through apoptosis and programmed necrosis) or passively (through reactive oxygen species toxicity) drive cellular dysfunction or demise. The cellular mitochondrial collective autoregulates its population through biogenic renewal and mitophagic culling; mitochondrial fission and fusion, 2 components of mitochondrial dynamism, are increasingly recognized as playing central roles as orchestrators of these processes. Mitochondrial dynamism is rare in striated muscle cells, so cardiac-specific genetic manipulation of mitochondrial fission and fusion factors has proven useful for revealing noncanonical functions of mitochondrial dynamics proteins. Here, we review newly described functions of mitochondrial fusion/fission proteins in cardiac mitochondrial quality control, cell death, calcium signaling, and cardiac development. A mechanistic conceptual paradigm is proposed in which cell death and selective organelle culling are not distinct processes, but are components of a unified and integrated quality control mechanism that exerts different effects when invoked to different degrees, depending on pathophysiological context. This offers a plausible explanation for seemingly paradoxical expression of mitochondrial dynamics and death factors in cardiomyocytes wherein mitochondrial morphometric remodeling does not normally occur and the ability to recover from cell suicide is severely limited.
A Client’s Client: The Process of Islamization in Early and Classical Islam
Authors: Nawas John
Published: October 2014

At some moment in time, the patronate system that had been introduced as a way to incorporate non-Arab Muslims into Arab society, allowed the client of a patron to have clients of his own. Using this phenomenon of mawālī of mawālī as focal point, this article pinpoints when changes in the patronate system occurred and sketches the process of islamization of society during the first four centuries of Islam.
Melastomataceae in a continental Atlantic Forest island from southeastern Brazil
Authors: Silva-Gonçalves Kelly Cristina , Baumgratz José Fernando Andrade , Nunes-Freitas André Felippe
Published: October 2014

The Marambaia is an important natural refuge for preserving the genetic heritage of several rain forest plant species. In this insular region, where the vegetation types are Lower Montane Rain Forest and restingas (sandy coastal plain habitat), the impressive diversity of Melastomataceae consists of seven genera and 25 species of which 13 represent new records for the area. Miconia is best represented with 10 species, followed by Tibouchina (6 spp.), Leandra (4 spp.), Clidemia (2 spp.) and Huberia, Marcetia and Ossaea (1 sp. each). Most of the species are shrubs or trees and occur in Dense Submontane Ombrophilous Forest. Huberia ovalifolia DC., Leandra acutiflora (Naudin) Cogn. and Leandra melastomoides Raddi are cited in the list of endangered species for the municipality of Rio de Janeiro. An identification key is provided as well as descriptions, illustrations, comments on morphological peculiarities of species, and geographical and phenological data.
Checklist of mycoheterotrophic species of the genus Exacum (Gentianaceae) and new species, E. zigomorpha, from northern Vietnam
Authors: Averyanov Leonid V. , Nguyen Khang Sinh , Nguyen Hiep Tien
Published: October 2014

The paper provides a key for identification and a checklist of mycoheterotrophic species of the genus Exacum, representing a well-defined group of achlorophyllous members of Gentianaceae regarded sometimes in the limits of a separate genus Cotylanthera. One novel species, E. zygomorpha, discovered in northern Vietnam, is described and illustrated as new for science. Among other features the discovered species strikingly differs from its congeners in having distinctly zygomorphic flowers.
Cymatosirella Dąbek, Witkowski & Sabbe gen. nov., a new marine benthic diatom genus (Bacillariophyta) belonging to the family Cymatosiraceae
Authors: DĄBEK PRZEMYSŁAW , SABBE KOEN , WITKOWSKI ANDRZEJ , ARCHIBALD COLIN , KURZYDŁOWSKI KRZYSZOF J. , ZGŁOBICKA IZABELA
Published: October 2014

We present a new marine benthic diatom genus Cymatosirella gen. nov. The genus belongs to the family Cymatosiraceae and has been assigned to the subfamily Extubocelluloideae on the basis of ultrastructural cell wall features. It has isovalvate cells with undulate valves and is characterized by the absence of tubular processes and the occurrence of hollow spines which are observed for the first time in the Cymatosiraceae. The new genus contains four species, two of which are transferred from the genus Cymatosira, viz. Cymatosirella capensis comb. nov. and Cymatosirella minutissima comb. nov., and two which are new to science, viz. Cymatosirella benguelensis sp. nov. and Cymatosirella taylorii sp. nov. Cymatosirella capensis is chosen as the generitype. The new genus includes a group of very small taxa inhabiting the intertidal zone of the Atlantic Ocean with three species in South Africa and one in Europe. C. capensis was originally described by Giffen from Langebaan Lagoon (a shallow marine inlet in the southern part of Saldanha Bay, Western Cape Province), on the basis of light microscopy only, and has to date only been illustrated by line drawings. C. minutissima, so far only known from the Westerschelde estuary (The Netherlands), has previously been documented in more detail using both light and electron microscopy. Here, we present the results of detailed light and electron microscopical investigations of C. capensis, both from its original type material and from recently collected samples from the type locality and neighboring littoral areas in the Western Cape Province, and of the new species C. benguelensis and C. taylorii, also from Western Cape localities. All species are compared with similar small taxa belonging to the Cymatosiraceae, subfamily Extubocelluloideae.
Hydrometeorological Analysis and Remote Sensing of Extremes: Was the July 2012 Beijing Flood Event Detectable and Predictable by Global Satellite Observing and Global Weather Modeling Systems?
Authors: Zhang Yu , Hong Yang , Wang Xuguang , Gourley Jonathan J. , Xue Xianwu , Saharia Manabendra , Ni Guangheng , Wang Gaili , Huang Yong , Chen Sheng , Tang Guoqiang
Published: October 2014

Prediction, and thus preparedness, in advance of flood events is crucial for proactively reducing their impacts. In the summer of 2012, Beijing, China, experienced extreme rainfall and flooding that caused 79 fatalities and economic losses of $1.6 billion. Using rain gauge networks as a benchmark, this study investigated the detectability and predictability of the 2012 Beijing event via the Global Hydrological Prediction System (GHPS), forced by the NASA Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Multisatellite Precipitation Analysis at near–real time and by the deterministic and ensemble precipitation forecast products from the NOAA Global Forecast System (GFS) at several lead times. The results indicate that the disastrous flooding event was detectable by the satellite-based global precipitation observing system and predictable by the GHPS forced by the GFS 4 days in advance. However, the GFS demonstrated inconsistencies from run to run, limiting the confidence in predicting the extreme event. The GFS ensemble precipitation forecast products from NOAA for streamflow forecasts provided additional information useful for estimating the probability of the extreme event. Given the global availability of satellite-based precipitation in near–real time and GFS precipitation forecast products at varying lead times, this study demonstrates the opportunities and challenges that exist for an integrated application of GHPS. This system is particularly useful for the vast ungauged regions of the globe.
Effects of Radial-Based Noise Power Estimation on Spectral Moment Estimates
Authors: Ivić Igor R. , Krause Jane C. , Boydstun Olen E. , Daniel Amy E. , Free Alan D. , Zittel Walter D.
Published: October 2014

A radar antenna intercepts thermal radiation from various sources, including the ground, the sun, the sky, precipitation, and man-made radiators. In the radar receiver, this external radiation produces noise that constructively adds to the receiver internal noise and results in the overall system noise. Consequently, the system noise power is dependent on the antenna position and needs to be estimated accurately. Inaccurate noise power measurements may lead to a reduction of coverage if the noise power is overestimated or to radar data images cluttered by noise speckles if the noise power is underestimated. Moreover, when an erroneous noise power is used at low to moderate signal-to-noise ratios, estimators can produce biased meteorological variables. Therefore, to obtain the best quality of radar products, it is desirable to compute meteorological variables using the noise power measured at each antenna position. An effective technique that achieves this by estimating the noise power in real time from measured powers at each scan direction and in parallel with weather data collection has been proposed. Herein, the effects of such radial-based noise power estimation on spectral moment estimates are investigated.
Global ends, local means: Cross-national homogeneity in professional service firms
Authors: Spence Crawford , Dambrin Claire , Carter Chris , Husillos Javier , Archel Pablo
Published: October 2014

An expanding institutionalist literature on professional service firms (PSFs) emphasizes that these are ridden by contradictions, paradoxes and conflicting logics. More specifically, literature looking at PSFs in a global context has highlighted how these contradictions prevent firms from becoming truly global in nature. What it takes to make partner in the Big 4 is at the core of such interrogations because partners belong to global firms yet are promoted at the national level. We undertake a cross-country comparison of partner promotion processes in Big 4 PSFs in Canada, France, Spain and the UK. Synthesizing existing institutionalist work with Bourdieusian theory, our results suggest that PSFs in different countries resemble each other very closely in terms of the requirements demanded of their partners. Although heterogeneity can be observed in the way in which different forms of capital are converted into each other, we show there is an overall homogeneity in that economic capital hurdles are the most significant, if not the sole, set of criteria upon which considerations of partnership admissions are based.
Sound-absorbing green composites based on cellulose ultra-short/ultra-fine fibers
Authors: Krucińska Izabella , Gliścińska Eulalia , Michalak Marina , Ciechańska Danuta , Kazimierczak Janusz , Bloda Arkadiusz
Published: October 2014

In this paper studies on sound absorption of the thermoplastic composites on the basis of waste natural fibers are presented. Cotton fibers and cellulose ultra-short and ultra-fine fibers obtained from flax fibers following enzymatic and additional mechanical treatment were used as the components of polylactide composites, and their influence on sound absorption behavior was investigated. The composites were obtained from a pressing process of fibrous multilayer structures. The sound absorption properties of three types of composites were compared: composites reinforced by cotton fibers, composites reinforced by cellulose ultra-short and ultra-fine fibers, and composites reinforced by cotton fibers and cellulose ultra-short and ultra-fine fibers. The role of cellulose ultra-short and ultra-fine fibers in changing the sound absorption properties of composites was determined. It has previously been shown that using natural fibers with a thermoplastic polymer results in increased sound absorption. The best improvement of sound absorption can be obtained by combining cotton fibers and cellulose ultra-short and ultra-fine fibers, especially nanofibers, as a reinforcement.
Style and the value of gay nightlife: Homonormative placemaking in San Francisco
Authors: Mattson Greggor
Published: October 2014

Reductionist conceptions of gay nightlife and the neighbourhoods they anchor have obscured their diversity amid claims of gentrification or displacement. The divergent trajectories of San Francisco’s three gay bar districts present a natural experiment to specify the relationship between gay placemaking and urban processes. In 1999, each neighbourhood anchored distinct stylistic practices but by 2004, one had collapsed, another became stylistically mixed, while the youngest expanded and became homogenous. In that neighbourhood a particular gay style and mainstream cosmopolitanism converged, spatially institutionalising what queer theorists call ‘the new homonormativity’ comprising sexual discretion, mainstream political assimilation and boutique consumerism. Adherence to this particular gay style conferred spatial capital, allowing cosmopolitans, gay and straight, to literally ‘take place’ anywhere, while nonconformist gays lost their places. Contrary to popular and academic claims, not all gay places are associated with gentrification: homonormativity fostered gentrification from within, nonconformist gay nightlife fell victim to gentrification from without. This study thus contributes to a clearer relationship between gay men and urban revitalisation, nightlife economies, and the valuation of some forms of urban creativity and placemaking over others.
Educators’ perceptions of homophobic victimisation of learners at private secondary schools
Authors: Mostert Hendrik P , Gordon Charmaine , Kriegler Susan
Published: October 2014

Heteronormativity is a foundational source of human oppression, resulting in heterosexism and homophobic attitudes, thus creating a hostile climate for non-heterosexual people. Despite a constitution that prohibits discrimination against anyone on the grounds of sexual orientation, homophobic victimisation of learners at secondary schools still occurs. The objective of this research project was to investigate educators’ perceptions of homophobic victimisation against homosexual learners at private secondary schools. We adopted a phenomenological approach. The research design was qualitative and of an exploratory, descriptive, and contextual nature. We gathered data by means of an open-ended, structured questionnaire and, with the assistance of an independent coder, we employed Tesch’s eight-step method of data analysis. We identified six themes: culture of acceptance; the need for policies; understanding of homosexuality; perception of homosexual learners; social difficulties and acts of verbal, physical, and emotional victimisation; and the learners’ feelings. These themes were organised under three categories, namely, school context, educators’ perceptions, and learners’ difficulties.
Public Administration in a Disenchanted World
Authors: Spicer Michael W.
Published: October 2014

Although Max Weber was pessimistic regarding the effects of rationalization and bureaucracy on human life and freedom, he saw the disenchantment of the world that results from the ascent of science and rationalism and the decline of religious and mystical interpretations of human experience as expanding the capacity for human freedom and moral responsibility. Moreover, he saw agonistic politics as checking the power of bureaucracy. Consequently, despite the conflict between the politicized character of American public administration and Weber’s views on the role of public administrators, his ideas on value pluralism and politics have important implications for American public administration.
The role of the Kantian imagination in realization-focused comparison
Authors: Cornell Drucilla
Published: October 2014

In this article I review Amaryta Sen’s powerful critique of transcendental institutionalism and his own ‘realization-focused comparison’ as an alternative way to think about justice. While deeply sympathetic with his critique of John Rawls I also argue that the role of the Kantian imagination is extremely important in figuring ideals of justice, which must guide ‘realization-focused comparison’. To do so I turn to Kant’s Critique of Judgment and his development of what he calls ‘aesthetic ideas’ as ways of representing the great ideals such as freedom and equality, which can be aesthetically represented but never fully known.
A controlled pilot trial of two commercial video games for rehabilitation of arm function after stroke
Authors: Chen Mei-Hsiang , Huang Lan-Ling , Lee Chang-Franw , Hsieh Ching-Lin , Lin Yu-Chao , Liu Hsiuchih , Chen Ming-I , Lu Wen-Shian
Published: October 2014

Objectives:

To investigate the acceptability and potential efficacy of two commercial video games for improving upper extremity function after stroke in order to inform future sample size and study design.

Design:

A controlled clinical trial design using sequential allocation into groups.

Setting:

A clinical occupational therapy department.

Subjects:

Twenty-four first-stroke patients.

Interventions:

Patients were assigned to one of three groups: conventional group, Wii group, and XaviX group. In addition to regular one-hour conventional rehabilitation, each group received an additional half-hour of upper extremity exercises via conventional devices, Wii games, or XaviX games, for eight weeks.

Main measures:

The Fugl-Meyer Assessment of motor function, Box and Block Test of Manual Dexterity, Functional Independence Measure, and upper extremity range of motion were used at baseline and postintervention. Also, a questionnaire was used to assess motivation and enjoyment.

Results:

The effect size of differences in change scores between the Wii and conventional groups ranged from 0.71 (SD 0.59) to 0.28 (SD 0.58), on the Fugl-Meyer Assessment of motor function ( d = 0.74) was larger than that between the XaviX and conventional groups, ranged from 0.44 (SD 0.49) to 0.28 (SD 0.58) ( d = 0.30). Patient enjoyment was significantly greater in the video game groups (Wii mean 4.25, SD 0.89; XaviX mean 4.38, SD 0.52) than in the conventional group (mean 2.25, SD 0.89, F = 18.55, p < 0.001), but motivation was not significantly different across groups.

Conclusion:

Patients were positive to using video games in rehabilitation. A sample size of 72 patients (24 per group) would be appropriate for a full study.
The effect of a workplace intervention programme on return to work after stroke: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Ntsiea MV , Van Aswegen H , Lord S , Olorunju S S
Published: October 2014

Objective:

To determine the effect of a workplace intervention programme on the rate of return to work of previously employed stroke survivors in the Gauteng province of South Africa.

Design:

A randomised controlled trial.

Setting:

Participants’ workplaces and three hospitals with stroke rehabilitation facilities.

Subjects:

Eighty stroke survivors between the ages of 18 and 60 years who were employed at the time of stroke onset.

Intervention:

The workplace intervention programme was tailored according to functional ability and workplace challenges of each stroke survivor. The control group received usual stroke care which took into consideration job requirements but without workplace intervention.

Main outcomes:

The primary outcome was return to work rate. Secondary outcomes included activities of daily living (ADLs), mobility, basic cognitive function and perceived quality of life.

Results:

At six months follow-up 60% ( n = 24) of stroke survivors in the intervention group returned to work compared to 20% ( n = 8) in the control group ( P <0.001). The odds ratio for return to work for stroke survivors in the intervention group was 5.2. For every unit increase in the ADLs and cognitive assessment score, the odds of return to work increased by 1.7 and 1.3 respectively; those who returned to work had better quality of life than those who did not return to work ( P = 0.05).

Conclusion:

A workplace intervention consisting of workability assessments and workplace visits was effective in facilitating return to work for stroke survivors in the Gauteng province of South Africa.
Radiographic Identification of the Primary Lateral Ankle Structures
Authors: Haytmanek C. Thomas , Williams Brady T. , James Evan W. , Campbell Kevin J. , Wijdicks Coen A. , LaPrade Robert F. , Clanton Thomas O.
Published: October 2014

Background:

Lateral ankle ligament injuries rank among the most frequently observed athletic injuries, requiring repair or reconstruction when indicated. However, there is a lack of quantitative data detailing the ligament attachment sites on standard radiographic views.

Purpose:

To quantitatively describe the anatomic attachment sites of the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), calcaneofibular ligament (CFL), and posterior talofibular ligament (PTFL) on standard radiographic views with respect to reproducible osseous landmarks to assist with intraoperative and postoperative assessment of lateral ankle ligament repairs and reconstructions.

Study Design:

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods:

Twelve nonpaired, fresh-frozen cadaveric foot and ankle specimens were dissected to identify the origins and insertions of the 3 primary lateral ankle ligaments. Ligament footprint centers were marked with 2-mm stainless steel spheres shallowly embedded at the level of the cortical bone prior to obtaining standard lateral and mortise radiographs. Measurements were performed twice by 2 blinded raters independently to calculate mean distances and assess reliability via intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs).

Results:

Radiographic measurements demonstrated excellent reproducibility between raters (all interobserver ICCs > 0.97) and across trials (all intraobserver ICCs >0.99). On the lateral view, the ATFL fibular attachment (mean ± SD) was 8.4 ± 1.8 mm proximal and anterior to the inferior tip of the lateral malleolus and attached on the talus 13.8 ± 2.0 mm proximal and anterior to the apex of the lateral talar process. The CFL originated 5.0 ± 1.4 mm superior and anterior to the inferior tip of the lateral malleolus and inserted on the calcaneus 18.5 ± 4.6 mm posterior and superior to the posterior point of the peroneal tubercle. On the mortise view, the ATFL origin was 4.9 ± 1.4 mm proximal to the inferior tip of the lateral malleolus and inserted on the talus 9.0 ± 2.1 mm medial and superior of the apex of the lateral talar process and 18.9 ± 3.1 mm inferior and slightly lateral to the superior lateral corner of the talar dome. The fibular CFL origin was 2.9 ± 1.6 mm proximal and slightly medial to the inferior tip of the lateral malleolus and inserted on the calcaneus 18.0 ± 5.1 mm distal to the apex of the lateral talar process.

Conclusion:

Radiographic parameters quantitatively describing the anatomic origins and insertions of the lateral ankle ligaments were defined with excellent reproducibility and agreement between reviewers.

Clinical Relevance:

Quantitative radiographic anatomy data will assist in preoperative planning, improve intraoperative localization, and provide objective measures for postoperative assessment of anatomic repairs and reconstructions.
Resurrecting Nannie Minor and Orie Hatcher
Authors: Netting F. Ellen , O’Connor Mary Katherine , Fauri David P. , Coles D. Crystal , Prorock-Ernest Amy
Published: October 2014

In this article, we raise two feminists (Minor and Hatcher) from erasure by recognizing the importance of their roles in the development of professional social work education. First, we tell a story of how emerging semiprofessions were intertwined, only to become separate over time. Next we focus on the influence of two feminists who came from other semiprofessions than social work and were instrumental in cocreating a School of Social Work. Minor and Hatcher’s erasure in the formal histories of the School demonstrates the gendered nature of the professional education process.
“This Is the Story of Why My Military Career Ended Before It Should Have”
Authors: Dichter Melissa E. , True Gala
Published: October 2014

Women who serve in the military benefit from unique opportunities but face strains as a minority population and, compared to men, report greater dissatisfaction with their service and have shorter military careers. We interviewed 35 U.S. women veterans about their decisions to enter and leave military service. Premature separation—leaving military service before one plans, expects, or wants to—was a prominent theme and was often precipitated by gender-based experiences, including interpersonal violence, harassment, and caregiving needs. Findings can inform efforts to improve the length and quality of women’s military careers and support women during and after service.
Estimation of the vehicle speed in the driving mode for a hybrid electric car based on an unscented Kalman filter
Authors: Zhao Zhiguo , Chen Haijun , Yang Jie , Wu Xiaowei , Yu Zhuoping
Published: October 2014

Preconditions for the effective implementation of a control strategy in an automobile’s active safety system rely on timely and accurate information on the vehicle’s running status, especially the vehicle speed. However, the vehicle speed cannot be measured directly without using advanced onboard sensors or specialized test equipment owing to their high mass production cost. In this study, a model-based method for estimating the vehicle speed in different driving modes is conducted in real time, which makes full use of information on the driving wheel’s torque for a four-wheel-drive hybrid car. First, a simulation platform that integrates the models of the powertrain system, the non-linear seven-degree-of-freedom vehicle dynamics system and the dynamic UniTire model is established. Next, an unscented Kalman filter algorithm is adopted to estimate the vehicle speed, and the estimated results and the simulated results are compared under different driving modes. Finally, real-vehicle tests at medium and low speeds are performed using a prototype car. The simulations and the test results confirm that the proposed unscented Kalman filter estimation algorithm without a linearizing truncation process can estimate the vehicle speed with high precision and strong adaptability.