bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of microwave ablation and transcatheter ablation and transcatheter arterial chemoembolization in the treatment of early hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Shirley Lawrence , Henry Jon , Malhotra Lavina , Bloomston Mark , Schmidt Carl
Published: July 2017

Background: Patients with cirrhosis and early stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) may not be candidates for surgical resection due to liver dysfunction. Two common alternative therapies to treat HCC are transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) and microwave ablation (MWA). We compared outcomes between HCC patients within Milan criteria after initial treatment with these two therapies. Methods: The records of 58 patients diagnosed with HCC within Milan criteria and treated initially with either TACE or MWA were reviewed. Pre-treatment factors, perioperative outcomes and survival were compared between groups. Results: There were 36 patients treated with MWA and 22 with TACE. Pre-treatment AFP levels were higher in the TACE group. Treatment with MWA was associated with progression-free survival (PFS) of 17.1 months versus 8.9 months after TACE (p=0.56). Disease- specific survival (DSS) was higher in the MWA group (median not reached) than the TACE group (32.0 months, p=0.047). Nine (15.5%) patients in this cohort went on to receive liver transplantation. Conclusions: Treatment with either MWA or TACE for patients with cirrhosis and unresectable HCC within Milan criteria is generally safe and initially effective, but recurrence and eventual death due to HCC or cirrhosis is common. These therapies should be a bridge to transplantation for all appropriate candidates.
Anemia amongst adolescent girls and boys attending outpatients and inpatient facilities in far western part of Nepal
Authors: Singh Priti , Khan Salman , Ansari Mukhtar , Mittal R
Published: July 2017

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of anemia among adolescent males and females in the far western part of Nepal. Patients and Methods: A hospital-based study was carried out in Nepalgunj Medical College, Kohalpur, Banke, Nepal to determine prevalence and distribution of anemia in terms of age and gender among adolescents population. A total of 2027 adolescent (10-19 years old) females and males were included in the study from March 2011 to December 2012. Hemoglobin level was determined by the Cyanmethaemoglobin method. Data were summarized using descriptive statistics. Results: The overall prevalence of anemia was 52% for both males and females. 29.7% of the females and 22.4% of the males were anemic. The proportion of mild anemia was 67.5% (38.4% in females and 29.0% in males), moderate anemia was 20.0% (10.9% in females and 9.1% in males) and severe anemia was 12.5% (7.7% in females and 4.8% in males). Analyzing data within age groups revealed that the highest prevalence of anemia in general occurred in the 18-19 year old subjects affecting 292 (82 males and 210 females). Conclusions: Anemia in Nepalese adolescents is mostly mild, occurs more in late teenage years and it mainly affects females. Nutritional improvement and oral iron supplementation is needed for curing of anemia.
Seckel's-like syndrome with primordial dwarfism, marked mental retardation, and severe heart malformation
Authors: Chentli Farida , Belahcene Siham , Azzoug Said
Published: July 2017

Introduction: Seckel's Syndrome, also called “Bird headed” syndrome was first described by Seckel in 1960. The very rare genetic and heterogeneous disorder, inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, is characterized by severe proportionate dwarfism of prenatal onset with mental retardation, dysmorphic facial features like a bird's with microcephaly, large beaked nose, and micrognathia. Our aim was to describe a typical case and give a focused literature review. Case report: A boy aged 7, with a birth weight of 1.9kg, whose parents are first cousins, was referred to our department for severe dwarfism. His mother reported hyperactivity and mental retardation. He weighed 8kg, measured 81cm (-6SD) and his cranial perimeter was 31 cm. He had a bird-like face with receding chin and forehead, large eyes, and prominent nose. In addition to his dysmorphic face, clinical examination showed kyphoscoliosis, flat feet, hypospadias and a systolic heart murmur heard in the pulmonic area of the chest, radiating into the back. There was no sign of right cardiac insufficiency. Echocardiography showed a large atrial-septal defect with enlarged right atrium and ventricle. Routine and haematological analyses were normal. Endocrine assessment was normal even for growth hormone and insulin growth factor (IGF-1). Psychological examination argued for severe mental retardation. Genetic screening was not available because of parents' low socioeconomic status. Conclusion: Consanguinity, intra and post natal severe dwarfism, mental retardation, body malformations with typical bird-headed aspect most likely indicate a diagnosis of Seckel's Syndrome worth being reported for its rarity.
The first clinical congress of the gulf chapter of the American association of clinical endocrinologists, october, 3rd-5th 2013, St Regis Hotel, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Authors: Khalil Aly , Al Zahrani Ali , Beshyah Salem
Published: July 2017

The first clinical congress of the Gulf Chapter of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists was held in October 2013. The declared educational objective of the congress is to give a “state of the art in endocrine practice”. To this end, the organizing committee invited international and regional key opinion leaders to meet the objectives of the congress. In this article, we present the abstracts of the congress as submitted by the authors after minimal restyling and editing to suit the publication requirements of the journal. Major issues and topical themes with wide interests in the profession were addressed in 6 plenary lectures. More focused issues were included in several parallel symposia to suite the specific educational needs of the target audience subgroups. Practical issues were addressed in “Meet the Expert” type of interactive workshops. A selection of free communications from abstracts submitted by delegates, reflecting mostly the regional epidemiology and clinical practice in diabetes care and endocrinology, were presented as either oral or poster presentations. The abstracts are presented under their relevant groups. We hope that by publishing them in this journal we extend the benefit to those who could not make it to the live presentations.
Fluxo editorial: uma análise quantitativa da revista Anuário de Literatura (2012-2014)
Authors: Grants Andréa Figueiredo Leão , Mattia Bianca Rosina , Furlan Stélio
Published: July 2017

http://dx.doi.org/10.5007/2175-7917.2016v21n1p203A revista Anuário de Literatura, vinculada ao Programa de Pós-Graduação em Literatura, da Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, em sua trajetória de mais de 20 anos de publicações, está inserida na área de Literatura, Teoria e Crítica Literária. Com a missão de difundir o conhecimento novo e inovador nesse campo, volta-se a pesquisadores, a profissionais de literatura com titulação mínima exigida e a estudantes de Pós-Graduação (Mestrado e Doutorado). A periodicidade semestral da revista, disponível no formato digital em PDF/A no Portal de Periódicos da UFSC desde 2008, bem como a garantia de acesso livre e imediato ao seu conteúdo, possibilitam não apenas a ampla difusão do conhecimento produzido no Brasil, mas também põe em evidência o significativo trabalho de editoração de um periódico científico. Nesse sentido, este artigo pretende investigar o processo editorial no período entre 2012 e 2014, visando o aperfeiçoamento do escopo da revista em disseminar pesquisas de excelência, a fim de garantir aos leitores e pesquisadores o conhecimento atual e relevante aos estudos literários. Para tanto, pretende-se elaborar um perfil dos autores que submeteram os originais durante esse período, considerando a instituição de origem e área de atuação.
"No ondear da vida moderna": o volátil sentimento de ser
Authors: Zandoná Jair
Published: July 2017

http://dx.doi.org/10.5007/2175-7917.2016v21n2p101No cenário da vida moderna, a cidade é a grande promulgadora de novidades. Grosso modo, na cidade pequena, se retomarmos as discussões de Georg Simmel (1979), o ritmo de vida flui mais lentamente, de maneira mais uniforme. Já na metrópole as imagens, os sons, os odores, desencadeiam uma torrente sensorial, que resulta em fragmentos, flashes, mosaicos. Este artigo pretende discutir algumas narrativas de Mário de Sá-Carneiro, suas personagens, e o modo como (se) (trans)formam (com) a – e a partir das experiências possíveis através da – cidade. Se Paris pungia-lhes vida, a sensibilidade e sensações que lhes envolviam como se estivessem em bebedeira, insones, sob efeito de narcóticos como que por simbiose: “Paris! Paris! Orgíaco e solene, monumental e fútil...” (SÁ-CARNEIRO, 2007, p. 237), estar nessa grande cidade, sozinho, era como que estar sempre acompanhado de uma amante, sua cidade-amante. É aí que o artista, como sofredor exemplar, emerge, sente, se voltatiliza.
: A escrita como água viva
Authors: Scherer Telma
Published: July 2017

http://dx.doi.org/10.5007/2175-7917.2016v21n2p118Neste artigo farei uma leitura da novela Água viva, de Clarice Lispector, a partir das considerações de Helène Cixous sobre o processo criativo, presentes no livro Three steps in the ladder of writing. Cixous compõe a imagem de uma escada descendente com três degraus: o da morte, o dos sonhos e o das raízes. Lispector empreende esse caminho em busca do “it”, exercício investigativo que é também uma prática radical com as palavras. A fim de seguir o percurso descendente e investigar o “it” através de leituras comparadas, trarei para a análise poemas de Hilda Hilst, do livro Poemas malditos, gozozos e devotos e também de Sylvia Plath, em Ariel, nomeadamente o poema “Lady Lazarus”.
Estudo sobre a figurabilidade em Balzac: A desfiguração do portrait de Camille Maupin
Authors: Frattini Paula Caldas
Published: July 2017

http://dx.doi.org/10.5007/2175-7917.2016v21n2p134Nesse artigo, a ideia corrente da leitura do descritivo em Balzac como uma “mania” estilística ou como a inscrição do mundo sensível no romance prefigurando, dessa feita, uma romance de significação coerente e coesa, é reavaliada. A intenção, aqui, é sugerir ao leitor a análise de um elemento da poética balzaquiana - a figurabilidade - seus alcances estéticos e os possíveis problemas da relação entre o romance e as questões de representação. O retrato da personagem Camille Maupin do romance Béatrix desponta, dessa forma, como uma composição figurativa problemática referente à afirmação de que nos romances balzaquianos o que impera é uma representação fiel do mundo sensível. No lugar de uma  reprodução fiel, notamos uma reconfiguração do corpo sensível. Na esteira do estudo de Georges Didi- Huberman sobre a semelhança informe em George Bataille e o conceito batailliano de materialismo, propomos a leitura do corpo de Camille Maupin como a descrição de um corpo informe, priorizando a maneira como o texto ficcional balzaquiano torna a figura humana visível.
Evidências Linguístico-Culturais de resistência na literatura infantil pós-colonial: literatura surda e Ondjaki
Authors: Sampaio Sonia Maria Gomes , Pissinatti Larissa Gotti
Published: July 2017

http://dx.doi.org/10.5007/2175-7917.2016v21n2p162Este artigo identifica as representações linguístico-culturais de resistência na narrativa Adão e Eva dos autores Lodenir Karnopp e Fabiano Rosa, da literatura surda e na obra Ynari: a menina de cinco tranças do autor angolano Ondjaki. Para tanto, usamos a abordagem comparativista trazendo as evidências de resistência nas obras a partir dos estudos pós-coloniais. Na primeira parte do artigo contextualizamos as obras e após abordamos o termo resistência a partir dos estudos pós-coloniais e, em seguida adentramos na análise das obras. A fim de delimitar os elementos de análise para comparação das obras, fizemos uso de alguns aspectos da topoanálise elencados por seu criador Gaston Bachelard e revisitados por Ozíris Borges Filho, limitando nosso estudo às evidências de resistência manifestadas na obra pelos personagens e pela ambientação criada pelos autores,  identificando os valores culturais e linguísticos que são expressos nas obras. Verificamos que tanto Adão e Eva como Ynari possuem elementos textuais que evidenciam valores linguístico-culturais e os autores, fazem da literatura uma estratégia de resistência.
"Aos saltos e aos pinotes": evocações
Authors: Grants Andréa Figueiredo Leão , Mattia Bianca Rosina , Silva Izabele Cristini da , Zandoná Jair , Drey Marina Siqueira , Furlan Stélio
Published: July 2017

http://dx.doi.org/10.5007/2175-7917.2016v21n2p8
Comparison of Vaisala radiosondes RS41 and RS92 launched over the oceans from the Arctic to the tropics
Authors: Kawai Yoshimi , Katsumata Masaki , Oshima Kazuhiro , Hori Masatake E. , Inoue Jun
Published: July 2017

Abstract. To assess the differences between the RS92 radiosonde and its improved counterpart, the Vaisala RS41-SGP radiosonde version with a pressure sensor, 36 twin-radiosonde launches were made over the Arctic Ocean, Bering Sea, western North Pacific Ocean, and the tropical Indian Ocean during two cruises of R/V Mirai in 2015. The biases, standard deviations, and root mean squares (rms's) of the differences between the RS41 and RS92 data over all flights and altitudes were smaller than the nominal combined uncertainties of the RS41, except that the rms of the differences of pressure above 100 exceeded 0.6 hPa. A comparison between daytime and nighttime flights in the tropics revealed that the pressure difference was systematically larger during the day than at night above an altitude of 4.5 km, suggesting that there was some effect of solar heating on the pressure measurements, but the exact reason is unclear. The agreement between the RS41 and RS92 temperature measurements was better than the combined uncertainties. However, there were some noteworthy discrepancies presumably caused by the wet-bulbing effect on the RS92 radiosonde and the stagnation of the balloon. Although the median of the relative humidity differences was only a little more than 2 % of the relative humidity at all altitudes, the relative humidity of the RS92 was much lower than that of the RS41 at altitudes of about 17 km in the tropics. This dry bias might have been caused by the incomplete solar radiation correction of the RS92, and a correction table for the daytime RS92 humidity was calculated. This study showed that the RS41 measurements were consistent with the specifications of the manufacturer in most cases over both the tropical and polar oceans. However, further studies on the causes of the discrepancies are needed.
Comparison between IRI-2012 and GPS-TEC observations over the western Black Sea
Authors: Inyurt Samed , Yildirim Omer , Mekik Cetin
Published: July 2017

Abstract. The ionosphere is a dynamic layer which generally changes according to radiation emitted by the sun, the movement of the earth around the sun, and sunspot activity. Variations can generally be categorized as regular or irregular variations. Both types of variation have a huge effect on radio wave propagation. In this study, we have focused on the seasonal variation effect, which is one of the regular forms of variation in terms of the ionosphere. We examined the seasonal variation over the ZONG station in Turkey for the year 2014. Our analysis results and IRI-2012 present different ideas about ionospheric activity. According to our analysed results, the standard deviation reached a maximum value in April 2014. However, the maximum standard deviation obtained from IRI-2012 was seen in February 2014. Furthermore, it is clear that IRI-2012 underestimated the VTEC values when compared to our results for all the months analysed. The main source of difference between the two models is the IRI-2012 topside ionospheric representation. IRI-2012 VTEC has been produced as a result of the integration of an electron density profile within altitudinal limits of 60–2000 km. In other words, the main problem with regard to the IRI-2012 VTEC representation is not being situated in the plasmaspheric part of the ionosphere. Therefore we propose that the plasmaspheric part should be taken into account to calculate the correct TEC values in mid-latitude regions, and we note that IRI-2012 does not supply precise TEC values for use in ionospheric studies.
Communicating climate change adaptation information using web-based platforms
Authors: Karali Eleni , Mattern Kati
Published: July 2017

Abstract. To facilitate progress in climate change adaptation policy and practice, it is important not only to ensure the production of accurate, comprehensive and relevant information, but also the easy, timely and affordable access to it. This can contribute to better-informed decisions and improve the design and implementation of adaptation policies and other relevant initiatives. Web-based platforms can play an important role in communicating and distributing data, information and knowledge that become constantly available, reaching out to a large group of potential users. Indeed in the last decade there has been an extensive increase in the number of platforms developed for this purpose in many fields including climate change adaptation. This short paper concentrates on the web-based adaptation platforms developed in Europe. It provides an overview of the recently emerged landscape, examines the basic characteristics of a set of platforms that operate at national, transnational and European level, and discusses some of the key challenges related to their development, maintenance and overall management. Findings presented in this short paper are discussed in greater detailed in the Technical Report of the European Environment Agency Overview of climate change adaptation platforms in Europe.
Delineation of marine ecosystem zones in the northern Arabian Sea using an objective method
Authors: Shalin Saleem , Samuelsen Annette , Korosov Anton , Menon Nandini , Backeberg Björn C. , Pettersson Lasse H.
Published: July 2017

Abstract. The spatial and temporal variability of marine autotrophic abundance, expressed as chlorophyll concentration, is monitored from space and used to delineate the surface signature of marine ecosystem zones with distinct optical characteristics. An objective zoning method is presented and applied to satellite-derived Chlorophyll a (Chl-a) data from the northern Arabian Sea (50°–75° E and 15°–30° N) during the winter months (November–March). Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Cluster Analysis (CA) were used to statistically delineate the Chl-a into zones with similar surface distribution patterns and temporal variability. The PCA identifies principal components of variability and the CA splits these into zones based on similar characteristics. Based on the temporal variability of Chl-a pattern within the study area, the statistical clustering revealed six distinct ecological zones. The obtained zones are related to the Longhurst provinces to evaluate how these compared to established ecological provinces. The Chl-a variability within each zone was then compared with the variability of oceanic and atmospheric properties viz. mixed-layer depth (MLD), wind speed, sea-surface temperature (SST), Photosynthetically Active Radiation (PAR), nitrate and Dust Optical Thickness (DOT) as an indication of atmospheric input of iron to the ocean. The analysis showed that in all zones, peak values of Chl-a coincided with low SST and deep MLD. Rate of decrease in SST and deepening of MLD are observed to trigger the intensity of the algae bloom events in the first four zones. Lagged cross-correlation analysis shows that peak Chl-a follows peak MLD and SST minima. The MLD time-lag is shorter than the SST lag by eight days, indicating that the cool surface conditions might have enhanced mixing, leading to increased primary production in the study area. An analysis of monthly climatological nitrate values showed increased concentrations associated with the deepening of the mixed-layer. The input of iron seems to be important in both the open ocean and coastal areas of the northern and north-western part of the Northern Arabian Sea, where the seasonal variability of the Chl-a pattern closely follows the variability of iron deposition.
The iFlow modelling framework v2.4: a modular idealized process-based model for flow and transport in estuaries
Authors: Dijkstra Yoeri M. , Brouwer Ronald L. , Schuttelaars Henk M. , Schramkowski George P.
Published: July 2017

Abstract. The iFlow modelling framework is a width-averaged model for the systematic analysis of the water motion and sediment transport processes in estuaries and tidal rivers. The distinctive solution method, a mathematical perturbation method, used in the model allows for identification of the effect of individual physical processes on the water motion and sediment transport and study of the sensitivity of these processes to model parameters. This distinction between processes provides a unique tool for interpreting and explaining hydrodynamic interactions and sediment trapping. iFlow also includes a large number of options to configure the model geometry and multiple choices of turbulence and salinity models. Additionally, the model contains auxiliary components, including one that facilitates easy and fast sensitivity studies. iFlow has a modular structure, which makes it easy to include, exclude or change individual model components, called modules. Depending on the required functionality for the application at hand, modules can be selected to construct anything from very simple quasi-linear models to rather complex models involving multiple non-linear interactions. This way, the model complexity can be adjusted to the application. Once the modules containing the required functionality are selected, the underlying model structure automatically ensures modules are called in the correct order. The model inserts iteration loops over groups of modules that are mutually dependent. iFlow also ensures a smooth coupling of modules using analytical and numerical solution methods. This way the model combines the speed and accuracy of analytical solutions with the versatility of numerical solution methods. In this paper we present the modular structure, solution method and two examples of the use of iFlow. In the examples we present two case studies, of the Yangtze and Scheldt rivers, demonstrating how iFlow facilitates the analysis of model results, the understanding of the underlying physics and the testing of parameter sensitivity. A comparison of the model results to measurements shows a good qualitative agreement. iFlow is written in Python and is available as open source code under the LGPL license.
Saturated and unsaturated salt transport in peat from a constructed fen
Authors: Simhayov Reuven B. , Weber Tobias K. D. , Price Jonathan S.
Published: July 2017

Abstract. To determine the underlying processes of solute transport in peat an experimental constructed fen peatland, soil hydraulic properties were measured and saturated and unsaturated solute breakthrough experiments were performed using Na+ and Cl− as reactive and non-reactive solutes, respectively. We tested the performanceof three solute transport models, including the classical equilibrium Convection-Dispersion Equation (CDE), a chemical non equilibrium one-site adsorption model (OSA) and a model to account for physical non-equilibrium, the mobile-immobile phases (MIM). The selection was motivated by the fact that the applicability of the MIM in peat soils finds a wide consensus. However, results from inverse modelling and a robust statistical evaluation of this peat provide evidence that the measured breakthrough of the conservative tracer, Cl− could be simulated well using the CDE. This is demonstrated by a very high Damköhler number (→infinity) suggesting instantaneous equilibration between the mobile and immobile phases; this underscores the redundancy of the MIM approach for this particular peat. Scanning electron microscope images of the peat show the typical multi-pore size distributions structure have been homogenised sufficiently by decomposition, such that physical non-equilibrium solute transport no longer governs the transport process. This is corroborated by the fact the soil hydraulic properties were adequately described using a unimodal van Genuchten-Mualem model between saturation and a pressure head of ~ −1000 cm of water. Hence, MIM is not the most suitable choice, and the long tailing of the Na+ breakthrough curve is caused by chemical non-equilibrium. Successful description was possible using the OSA model. To test our results for the unsaturated case, we conducted an unsaturated steady state evaporation experiment to drive Na+ and Cl− transport. Using the parameterised transport models from the saturated experiments, we could numerically simulate the unsaturated transport using Hydrus-1D. The simulation showed a good prediction of observed values, confirming the suitability of the parameters for use in a slightly unsaturated transport simulation. The findings improve the understanding of solute redistribution in the constructed fen.
The importance of accurate glacier albedo for estimates of surface mass balance on Vatnajökull: evaluating the surface energy budget in a regional climate model with automatic weather station observations
Authors: Schmidt Louise Steffensen , Aðalgeirsdóttir Guðfinna , Guðmundsson Sverrir , Langen Peter L. , Pálsson Finnur , Mottram Ruth , Gascoin Simon , Björnsson Helgi
Published: July 2017

Abstract. A simulation of the surface climate of Vatnajökull ice cap, Iceland, carried out with the regional climate model HIRHAM5 for the period 1980–2014, is used to estimate the evolution of the glacier surface mass balance (SMB). This simulation uses a new snow albedo parameterization that allows albedo to exponentially decay with time and is surface temperature dependent. The albedo scheme utilizes a new background map of the ice albedo created from observed MODIS data. The simulation is evaluated against observed daily values of weather parameters from five automatic weather stations (AWSs) from the period 2001–2014, as well as in situ SMB measurements from the period 1995–2014. The model agrees well with observations at the AWS sites, albeit with a general underestimation of the net radiation. This is due to an underestimation of the incoming radiation and a general overestimation of the albedo. The average modelled albedo is overestimated in the ablation zone, which we attribute to an overestimation of the thickness of the snow layer and not taking the surface darkening from dirt and volcanic ash deposition during dust storms and volcanic eruptions into account. A comparison with the specific summer, winter, and net mass balance for the whole of Vatnajökull (1995–2014) shows a good overall fit during the summer, with a small mass balance underestimation of 0.04 m w.e. on average, whereas the winter mass balance is overestimated by on average 0.5 m w.e. due to too large precipitation at the highest areas of the ice cap. A simple correction of the accumulation at the highest points of the glacier reduces this to 0.15 m w.e. Here, we use HIRHAM5 to simulate the evolution of the SMB of Vatnajökull for the period 1981–2014 and show that the model provides a reasonable representation of the SMB for this period. However, a major source of uncertainty in the representation of the SMB is the representation of the albedo, and processes currently not accounted for in RCMs, such as dust storms, are an important source of uncertainty in estimates of snow melt rate.
Black carbon and mineral dust in snow cover on the Third Pole
Authors: Zhang Yulan , Kang Shichang , Sprenger Michael , Cong Zhiyuan , Gao Tanguang , Li Chaoliu , Tao Shu , Li Xiaofei , Zhong Xinyue , Xu Min , Meng Wenjun , Sillanpää Mika
Published: July 2017

Abstract. Light-absorbing impurities (including black carbon, organic carbon, and mineral dust) deposited on snow can reduce surface albedo and contribute to the near-worldwide melting of snow cover and ice. This study found that the black carbon, organic carbon, and dust concentrations in snow cover ranged generally from 202–17 468 ng g−1, 491–13 880 ng g−1, and 22–846 µg g−1, respectively, with higher concentrations in the central to northern areas of the Third Pole region (referred to by scientists also as the Tibetan Plateau and its surrounding mountains). Footprint analyses suggested that the northern Third Pole was influenced mainly by air masses from Central Asia with some Euro-Asia influence; air masses in the central and Himalayan region originated mainly from Central and South Asia. The open burning-sourced black carbon contributions decreased from ~ 50 % in the southern Third Pole region to ~ 30 % in the northern Third Pole region. The contribution of black carbon and dust to snow albedo reduction reached approximately 37 % and 15 %, respectively. The effect of black carbon and dust reduced the average snow cover duration by 3.1 ± 0.1 days to 4.4 ± 0.2 days. Meanwhile, the black carbon and dust had an import implication for snowmelt water loss over the Third Pole region. Findings indicate that the impacts of black carbon and mineral dust need to be properly accounted for in future regional climate projections, particularly in the high-altitude cryosphere.
INFLUENCES OF STYRENE BUTADIENE RUBBER AND SILICA TYPES ON PERFORMANCE OF PASSENGER CAR RADIAL TIRE TREAD
Authors: Thaptong Puchong , Sae-oui Pongdhorn , Sirisinha Chakrit
Published: July 2017

A performance comparison among three types of styrene butadiene rubber (SBR), that is, emulsion polymerized SBR (ESBR), solution polymerized SBR (SSBR), and functionalized solution polymerized SBR (F-SSBR), was of interest. Effect of silica type, that is, highly dispersible silica and conventional precipitated silica, was also investigated. It is found that SSBR demonstrates significantly better heat build-up, dynamic set, abrasion resistance, including wet grip (WG) with comparable fuel efficiency, as compared to ESBR. As expected, the best tire performance, that is, abrasion resistance, WG, and fuel efficiency, is found in F-SSBR vulcanizates, attributed mainly to the greatest improvement in magnitude of rubber–filler interaction and degree of filler dispersion. Results reveal that the reactive functional group, that is, propylaminedimethoxysilane, which is chemically anchored at chain ends of F-SSBR, plays a crucial role in tire performance. Unexpectedly, silica type does not significantly influence the degree of filler dispersion, including WG and fuel saving efficiency. Probably, the predominance of sufficiently long mixing time during the compound preparation step may be responsible, as compared to the effect of silica characteristics.
The Impact of Service Climate and Job Satisfaction on Service Quality in a Higher Education Platform
Authors: Osman Abu Rashed , Saha Jashodhan , Alam Mirza Mohammad Didarul
Published: July 2017

This study examines service climate and service quality through the mediating impact of job satisfaction within a tertiary education level in Bangladesh. The sample size of the study consisted of 140 faculty-members from four different private universities of Dhaka city and a structured questionnaire was designed to assess the service quality of higher education. Several statistical methods such as t-test, correlations and multiple-regression were used to analyze the data. The study discloses that the overall service climate has a significant positive impact on service quality. Finally, the study reveals that job satisfaction is partially mediating between service climate and service quality. This paper makes an outstanding empirical contribution by incorporating service climate and job satisfaction and exploring their relationships with service quality in the context of higher education. The overall results of this study would be valuable to the planners to formulate the pragmatic strategies for ensuring service quality through service climate and job satisfaction of faculty-members in the private tertiary level institutions. This is one of the rare empirical studies in this sector, and thus represents a unique contribution to the literature.
MiR-411 Functions as a Tumor Suppressor in Renal Cell Cancer
Authors: Zhang Xintao , Zhang Meng , Cheng Jianli , Lv Zhaojie , Wang Feng , Cai Zhiming
Published: July 2017

Background

Recent studies have revealed that microRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles as oncogenes or tumor suppressors in tumorigenesis and tumor development, by negatively regulating protein expression. A previous study of microarrays identified that miR-411 was down-regulated in renal cell carcinoma (RCC), while few studies investigating the role of miR-411 in the pathogenesis of RCC have been performed.

Methods

We assessed the miR-411 expression in RCC and paired adjacent normal tissues, as well as in RCC cell lines and a normal renal cell line, by quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Furthermore, the effects of miR-411 on RCC and normal renal cell proliferation, apoptosis and migration were determined using MTT assay, CCK-8 assay, flow cytometry and scratch wound assay following restoration of miR-411 with synthetic mimics.

Results

Results of qRT-PCR indicated that the expression of miR-411 was down-regulated in RCC tissues and cell lines when compared with adjacent normal tissues and a normal renal cell line. Further, results of CCK-8, MTT, cell scratch and transwell assay showed that over-expression of miR-411 suppressed RCC cell (786-0 and ACHN) proliferation and migration. Flow cytometry assay revealed that miR-411 could induce RCC cell apoptosis. However, overexpression of miR-411 had no obvious effect on normal renal cell line 293T

Conclusions

To sum up, miR-411 is significantly down-regulated and plays a role as a tumor suppressor in RCC. Further studies are warranted to determine the mechanisms of miR-411 in RCC pathogenesis and define the target genes of miR-411 in RCC.
Medical Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction: Too Many Medical Prescriptions?
Authors: Capogrosso Paolo , Ventimiglia Eugenio , Oreggia Davide , Salonia Andrea , Montorsi Francesco
Published: July 2017

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a worldwide commonly reported condition; epidemiological data showed a prevalence ranging from 2.3 to 53.4% within different population subsets. In this context, the advent of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5is) in the second mid of 1990s has deeply changed the treatment scenario of this bothersome condition. Being user-friendly compounds with an excellent overall safety profile, PDE5is emerged as the first-line treatment for ED, thus overcoming topical alprostadil and intracavernous injections (ICIs). However, available data on treatment-utilization patterns and medical prescriptions of PDE5is showed a range of as wide as 22-78% of patients reporting to purchase PDE5is even without a proper medical prescription. Moreover, an increase in the recreational use of PDE5is among young men has been observed in the last decades, with a worrisome diffusion of potential health-risky behaviours associated with this habit. Indeed, treatment of ED should carefully follow internationally based clinical guidelines to avoid inappropriate drug prescriptions, which may eventually expose treated patients to drug-related side effects. Thereof, a careful assessment of the so-called modifiable and reversible ED risk factors along with a patient-tailored screening for potential contraindications to the treatment itself should be performed in every case. Lastly, although conclusive data still lack, the potential association between life-risky PDE5is side effects (i.e. cardiovascular adverse events, melanoma skin cancer and worsening of prostate cancer outcomes) should be carefully taken into account when counselling patients for ED treatment.
The Circle, the Maze, and the Echo: Sublunary Recurrence and Performance in Chaucer's Legend of Ariadne
Authors: Harlan-Haughey Sarah
Published: July 2017

This article argues that Chaucer's tragic works explore the nightmare of the cyclical, and that an analysis of the Legend of Ariadne as a defining text at the center of Chaucer's writing career reveals his careful repetition of emotionally and philosophically charged images. The Legend of Ariadne provides a key to understanding Chaucer's conception of the Legend of Good Women as a series of echoing narratives, bound together by a series of curated repeating motifs. His condensed and crystallized deployment of classic Chaucerian themes such as the circle, the maze, and the echo gives us a sharp sense of Chaucer's tragic reading of history. To Chaucer, this doomed world is paradoxically always the same in its repetition, and constantly changing: generations die only to be replaced by others who will make the same mistakes.
Demand Determinants of Cruise Tourists in Competitive Markets: Motivation, Preference and Intention
Authors: Chen Jamie M. , Neuts Bart , Nijkamp Peter , Liu Jingjing
Published: July 2017

The purpose of this study is to develop and estimate an integrated structural path model of the determinants of cruise demand based on the nexus of motivation, preference and intention of cruise tourists. The paper identifies the drivers of this demand in competitive markets. The model results show that different cruise motives have a significant effect (positive or negative) on specific cruise preferences and intentions, while some significant relationships between cruise preferences and intentions could also be found. Based on this structural path model, the authors apply an ANOVA approach to compare the differences of cruise motivations and cruise preferences in Asian markets in order to trace the instrumental determinants of cruise passengers, leading to a new understanding of the commonalities and differences of cruise competitiveness in different regional markets.
Pricing Strategies of the European Low-Cost Carriers Explained Using Porter's Five Forces Model
Authors: Moreno-Izquierdo L. , Ramón-Rodríguez A.B. , Perles-Ribes J.F.
Published: July 2017

In recent decades, the air transport sector has experienced major changes, including the emergence of the low-cost airlines. The strategies adopted by these new companies have given rise to a revitalization of the sector, particularly in Europe and the USA. This article analyses the pricing strategy followed by the low-cost carriers based on Porter's analysis. The research is based on the study of a total of 90 traditional tourist routes between the UK and Spain. As in previous studies, the high level of concentration and advance purchase of fares are the most important components explaining the price dispersion. However, the methodology used (principal component analysis + panel) has generated another series of highly interesting results regarding the role of the Internet and tourism in price setting which require further in-depth study.
As contingências do trabalho bancário: Um estudo sobre os mecanismos de mediação e defesa do sofrimento.
Authors: Ziliotto Denise Macedo , Jaques Anderson Gonsalves
Published: July 2017

O setor bancário sofre mudanças importantes desde a reestruturação produtiva na década de90, implicando redução significativa no contingente de trabalhadores e transformações na organizaçãodo trabalho. Estas contingências impactam na saúde mental do bancário, sendo relevanteinvestigar os mecanismos de mediação e defesa do sofrimento utilizados pelostrabalhadores diante deste contexto. Esta pesquisa descritiva, de abordagem qualitativa, foirealizada por meio de entrevistas com bancários de instituição privada de atuação nacional,submetidas à análise de conteúdo. A investigação identificou os efeitos da organização dotrabalho, onde as premissas da gestão geram importante individualização do trabalho, pois obancário é tensionado pela pressão da meta e pela necessidade de reconhecimento. Há mobilizaçãosubjetiva no sentido de tentar mediar o sofrimento decorrente da dinâmica do trabalho,como evidenciado na superficialidade afetiva e no isolamento que busca dar conta dademanda de atribuições imposta, o que se reflete na condição de atendimento aos clientes.Dentre as estratégias de mediação presentes nas experiências dos participantes estão a cooperação,a inteligência prática e a transgressão; como mecanismos de defesa, foram identificadoso cinismo viril, a insensibilidade afetiva, o isolamento e o adoecimento psíquico.
DINÂMICA DA BIOMASSA E CARBONO ARBÓREO ENTRE 1995-2012 EM FLORESTA OMBRÓFILA MISTA MONTANA
Authors: Lipinski Evelyn Takahashi , Dalla Corte Ana Paula , Sanquetta Carlos Roberto , Rodrigues Aurélio Lourenço , Mognon Francelo , Behling Alexandre
Published: July 2017

Avaliou-se a dinâmica da biomassa e do carbono no componente arbóreo acima do solo em um fragmento de Floresta Ombrófila Mista Montana no sul do Brasil. Os dados foram coletados em quatro parcelas permanentes instaladas no ano de 1995 com medições anuais até o ano de 2012. Indivíduos arbóreos com diâmetro à altura do peito (DAP) ≥10 cm foram mensurados. As árvores mortas e os indivíduos recrutas foram registrados em cada avaliação. Estimou-se a biomassa e o carbono orgânico ao nível de família, espécie e classe diamétrica. O estoque de biomassa acima do solo em árvores vivas foi estimado em 174,5 Mg ha-1 no ano de 1995 e de 235,4 Mg ha-1 para o ano de 2012, correspondendo a 73,14 Mg ha-1 e 98,66 Mg ha-1 de carbono, respectivamente. O incremento periódico anual (IPA) foi de 3,58 Mg ha-1 ano-1 de biomassa e 1,49 Mg ha-1ano-1 de carbono. O grupo das Araucárias apresentou maior estoque tanto em biomassa quanto em carbono. Entre as famílias, destacaram-se Araucariaceae e Lauraceae, e entre espécies Araucaria angustifolia. Avaliando a distribuição espacial das variáveis, contatou-se que os estoques de biomassa e carbono se mostraram muito associados à presença de Araucaria angustifolia.
QUALIDADE DA BIOMASSA FLORESTAL COMERCIALIZADA NO VALE DO ITAJAÍ, SC
Authors: Eleotério Jackson Roberto , Kirchheim da Silva Cláudia Mariana , Quintino Anderson , Stramosk Antonio Carlos , Kiefer Rafael
Published: July 2017

Características tecnológicas como o alto teor de umidade e a baixa massa específica à granel afetam a competitividade da biomassa florestal e limitam a sua participação na matriz energética nacional. O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar e comparar esses indicadores de qualidade em toretes e cavacos de Pinus sp., Eucalyptus sp. e misturas dessas e de outras espécies não identificadas. Foram coletadas 137 amostras no momento do recebimento pelas indústrias consumidoras, sendo 101 na forma de cavacos e 36 na forma de toretes. A massa específica à granel dos cavacos e o teor de umidade de Pinus sp. foram superiores aos obtidos para os cavacos de Eucalyptus sp. Apesar do maior teor de umidade, a massa específica anidra dos cavacos de Pinus sp. foi superior à dos cavacos de Eucalyptus sp. Os toretes apresentam teor de umidade significativamente superior aos cavacos apenas para Pinus sp. Os teores de umidade se aproximam dos apresentados por diversos autores como encontrados em árvores em pé ou recém abatidas, mantendo-se constantes ao longo do tempo, indicando a ausência de práticas como a secagem para melhorar a qualidade da biomassa.
BIOSSÓLIDO COMO COMPONENTE DE SUBSTRATO PARA PRODUÇÃO DE MUDAS FLORESTAIS
Authors: Cabreira Gerhard Valkinir , Leles Paulo Sérgio Dos Santos , Alonso Jorge Makhlouta , Abreu Alan Henrique Marques de , Lopes Nayara Franzini , Santos Gabriel Rocha dos
Published: July 2017

Considerado nas cidades como resíduo sólido altamente problemático, o biossólido proveniente do lodo de esgoto é rico em matéria orgânica e nutrientes, e no Brasil sua destinação comum é o descarte em aterros sanitários. O objetivo desse trabalho foi avaliar diferentes proporções de biossólido como componente de substratos para a produção de mudas de três espécies da Floresta Atlântica, avaliando além de parâmetros morfológicos, o peso e facilidade de transporte das mudas, bem como seu crescimento em campo. O experimento foi composto por quatro tratamentos, tendo como testemunha substrato formado por esterco bovino, solo argiloso e areia, na proporção volumétrica de 40-50-10%. Os demais tratamentos foram compostos por biossólido, solo argiloso e areia nas proporções de 20-70-10%, 40-50-10% e 80-10-10% respectivamente. Avaliou-se o crescimento das mudas em viveiro e sua sobrevivência e o crescimento em campo cinco meses após plantio. O biossólido tem potencial como componente de substrato para a produção de mudas florestais, consistindo em melhor destino final a este resíduo em comparação com a disposição em aterros sanitários. O uso do biossólido pode promover maior crescimento maior das mudas em viveiro, bem como diminuir o peso final das mesmas, facilitando a logística de expedição para o campo. É indicada a aplicação entre 40 a 80% de biossólido na composição do substrato. O plantio em campo demonstrou boa sobrevivência e crescimento das mudas, indicando que todos os substratos foram capazes de produzir mudas adequadas ao plantio.
Asynchronous Signaling in Global Equity Markets：Based on Opening Times
Authors: Dong Huijian
Published: July 2017

This paper employs cointegration tests to identify the impacts of sequential opens of global equity market among the equity indices. We use the daily data of 31 major equity markets and explore the comovement relationship according to the sequence of the market open. This study also examines the impact of the 2008 global financial crisis to such comovement relationship. Our results indicate that the markets in Europe-Middle East, Asia-Pacific and Latin America, are less affected by the levels of earlier opens of other markets. After the end of 2007, the global equity market comovement pattern changed significantly, yet the interdependence of markets was not unanimously strengthened. The size of an equity market does not dictate its range and power of impact, as we find that a large size market can still be cointegrated with small size markets, while a small size market is almost always cointegrated with large size markets.
The American Health Care Act: Trumped wetgeving?
Authors: Ranchordás S.H.
Published: July 2017

The American Health Care Act: Trumped wetgeving?

De eerste bijdrage van de auteur aan de rubriek ‘Buitenlands nieuws’ had als onderwerp Obamacare (Affordable Care Act). Deze bijdrage heeft als onderwerp de opvolger ervan, vernoemd naar de opvolgende president van de Verenigde Staten: Trumpcare (American Health Care Act). Dat wil zeggen, het is onduidelijk of met de nieuwe wet Obamacare nu is afgeschaft, of slechts gewijzigd. Het oogmerk van Obamacare, namelijk het verzekeren van gelijke toegang tot de gezondsheidszorg, is daarmee weer deels ongedaan gemaakt. De American Health Care Act moet echter nog wel worden aangenomen door de Senaat. Het is de vraag of die hobbel kan worden genomen.
A QuEChERS-Based Sample Preparation Method for the Analysis of 5-Nitroimidazoles in Bovine Milk by HPLC–DAD
Authors: Tuzimski Tomasz , Rejczak Tomasz
Published: July 2017

In this study, a simple, cost-effective, and sensitive HPLC diode-array detection method was developed for the simultaneous determination of six different 5-nitroimidazoles [metronidazole, 2-hydroxymethyl-1-methyl-5-nitro-1H-imidazole, dimetridazole (DMZ), ronidazole, ornidazole, and ipronidazole] in bovine milk samples. A QuEChERS-based sample preparation procedure was optimized by evaluating different cleanup sorbents, including zirconium-based sorbents (Z-Sep and Z-Sep+), C18, and primary–secondary amine (PSA), as well as EMR-Lipid cleanup solution. Acceptable analytical performance for all analytes was observed with recoveries in the range of 45–93% and RSDs of less than 15%. Negligible matrix interference was observed for most of the analytes due to application of PSA sorbent in a dispersive solid-phase extraction cleanup step. Method LOQs (mLOQs) for five of the six investigated analytes were set at a satisfactory low food product value of 2.5 ng/mL. For DMZ only, the mLOQ was set at 10 ng/mL. The procedure was evaluated through the analysis of 10 different natural samples.