bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Timing of the resumption of antithrombotic agents following surgical evacuation of chronic subdural hematomas: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Guha Daipayan , Coyne Shona , Macdonald R. Loch
Published: September 2015

OBJECT

Antithrombosis (AT), defined here as either antiplatelets or anticoagulants, is a significant risk factor for the development of chronic subdural hematomas (cSDHs). Resuming AT following the evacuation of cSDH is a highly variable practice, with scant evidence in the literature for guidance. Here, a retrospective analysis of a cohort of patients from a single institution undergoing surgical drainage of cSDH was performed to evaluate postoperative complications and determine the optimal timing of the resumption of common antithrombotic agents.

METHODS

This retrospective analysis was performed on 479 patients undergoing surgical evacuation of cSDH at St. Michael’s Hospital over a 5-year period (2007–2012). The collected variables included the type of AT agent, indications for AT, timing and type of postoperative complications, and the restart intervals for the AT agents, when available. Postoperative complications were classified as major hemorrhages, minor hemorrhages, orthromboembolic events.

RESULTS

Among all 479 study patients, 71 experienced major hemorrhage (14.8%), 110 experienced minor hemorrhage (23.0%), and 8 experienced thromboembolism (1.67%) postoperatively. Patients on any type of preoperative AT regimen were at a higher risk of major hemorrhage (19.0% vs 10.9%; OR 1.93; 95% CI 1.15–2.71; p = 0.014). The type of AT agent did not affect the frequency of any postoperative complications. Patients on any preoperative AT regimen experienced earlier postoperative major hemorrhages (mean 16.2 vs 26.5 days; p = 0.052) and thromboembolic events (mean 2.7 vs 51.5 days; p = 0.036) than those patients without a history of AT; the type of AT agent did not affect timing of complications. Patients who were restarted on any AT therapy postoperatively were at decreased risk of major rebleeding following resumption than those patients who were not restarted (OR 0.06; 95% CI 0.02–0.2; p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with a history of preoperative AT experienced thromboembolic complications significantly earlier than those patients without AT, which peaked at 3 days postoperatively with no increase in hemorrhage risk when AT was restarted. Cursory evidence is presented that shows resuming AT early following the surgical evacuation of cSDH at 3 days postoperatively may be safe. However, much larger prospective studies are required prior to providing any definitive recommendations regarding the optimal timing and method of resumption of individual agents.
Gamma Knife surgery for patients with facial nerve schwannomas: a multiinstitutional retrospective study in Japan
Authors: Hasegawa Toshinori , Kato Takenori , Kida Yoshihisa , Hayashi Motohiro , Tsugawa Takahiko , Iwai Yoshiyasu , Sato Mitsuya , Okamoto Hisayo , Kano Tadashige , Osano Seiki , Nagano Osamu , Nakazaki Kiyoshi
Published: September 2015

OBJECT

The aim of this study was to explore the efficacy and safety of stereotactic radiosurgery for patients with facial nerve schwannomas (FNSs).

METHODS

This study was a multiinstitutional retrospective analysis of 42 patients with FNSs treated with Gamma Knife surgery (GKS) at 1 of 10 medical centers of the Japan Leksell Gamma Knife Society (JLGK1301). The median age of the patients was 50 years. Twenty-nine patients underwent GKS as the initial treatment, and 13 patients had previously undergone surgery. At the time of the GKS, 33 (79%) patients had some degree of facial palsy, and 21 (50%) did not retain serviceable hearing. Thirty-five (83%) tumors were solid, and 7 (17%) had cystic components. The median tumor volume was 2.5 cm3, and the median prescription dose to the tumor margin was 12 Gy.

RESULTS

The median follow-up period was 48 months. The last follow-up images showed partial remission in 23 patients and stable tumors in 19 patients. Only 1 patient experienced tumor progression at 60 months, but repeat GKS led to tumor shrinkage. The actuarial 3- and 5-year progression-free survival rates were 100% and 92%, respectively. During the follow-up period, 8 patients presented with newly developed or worsened preexisting facial palsy. The condition was transient in 3 of these patients. At the last clinical follow-up, facial nerve function improved in 8 (19%) patients, remained stable in 29 (69%), and worsened in 5 (12%; House-Brackmann Grade III in 4 patients, Grade IV in 1 patient). With respect to hearing function, 18 (90%) of 20 evaluated patients with a pure tone average of ≤ 50 dB before treatment retained serviceable hearing.

CONCLUSIONS

GKS is a safe and effective treatment option for patients with either primary or residual FNSs. All patients, including 1 patient who required repeat GKS, achieved good tumor control at the last follow-up. The incidence of newly developed or worsened preexisting facial palsy was 12% at the last clinical follow-up. In addition, the risk of hearing deterioration as an adverse effect of radiation was low. These results suggest that GKS is a safe alternative to resection.
Guilt and Elation in the Workplace: Emotion and the Governance of the Environment at Work
Authors: Whittle Rebecca
Published: September 2015

This paper explores the integration of environmental concern into the workplace by combining insights from the literature on governmentality with work that focuses on the role of emotion in organisational contexts. I build on work by Hargreaves (2008) and Butler (2010) to show that environmental concern is an emerging form of workplace governance which acts by and through the emotions and which intersects with pre-existing forms of power in surprising and complex ways. I conclude by reflecting on some additional theoretical approaches which may offer some tools for developing forms of workplace governance that are more socially and environmentally sustainable.
A Conceptual Framework to Enable the Changes Required for a One-Planet Future
Authors: Honig Maria , Petersen Samantha , Herbstein Tom , Roux Saul , Nel Deon , Shearing Clifford
Published: September 2015

We conceptualise a framework that incorporates psychological and non-psychological factors influencing pro-environmental behaviour. We conducted qualitative investigations in five sectors in South Africa, where individuals and groups are dealing with significant environmental issues, including climate change, biodiversity loss and land-use change. We found three fundamental elements necessary for behavioural change to be realised: awareness (A) is defined as an understanding that society and earth systems are connected; motivation (M) involves the personal and operational drivers that encourage an individual or organisation to respond to new levels of awareness; and pathways (P) recognise the practical solutions and opportunities that facilitate actual change. AMP was built up from thirty-eight variables that cut across between three and five of the case studies, which were further grouped into fourteen categories. The inter-connectedness of AMP suggests that for pro-environmental behaviour to occur, attention cannot be focused on satisfying one of the elements in isolation. This is the first attempt to integrate theory from social psychology, sociology, organisational theory and management in a conceptual framework for pro-environmental behaviour. The AMP framework is useful for supporting practitioners or change-agents designing environmental sustainability initiatives.
Overexpression of G6PD and HSP90 Beta in Mice with Benzene Exposure Revealed by Serum Peptidome Analysis
Authors: Zhang Juan , Tan Kehong , Meng Xing , Yang Wenwen , Wei Haiyan , Sun Rongli , Yin Lihong , Pu Yuepu
Published: September 2015

The small peptides representation of the original proteins are a valuable source of information that can be used as biomarkers involved in toxicity mechanism for chemical exposure. The aim of this study is to investigate serum peptide biomarkers of benzene exposure. C57BL/6 mice were enrolled into control group and benzene groups of 150 and 300 mg/kg/d Serum peptides were identified by mass spectrometry using an assisted laser desorption ionization/time of flight mass spectrometry (MS). Differential peptide spectra were obtained by tandem mass spectrometry and analyzed by searching the International Protein Index using the Sequest program. Forty-one peptide peaks were found in the range of 1000–10,000 Da molecular weight. Among them, seven peaks showed significantly different expression between exposure groups and control group. Two peptide peaks (1231.2 and 1241.8), which showed a two-fold increase in expression, were sequenced and confirmed as glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) and heat shock protein 90 Beta (HSP90 Beta), respectively. Furthermore, the expression of the two proteins in liver cells showed the same trend as in serum. In conclusion, G6PD and HSP90 beta might be the candidate serum biomarkers of benzene exposure. It also provided possible clues for the molecular mechanism of benzene-induced oxidative stress.
Remediation of Rare Earth Element Pollutants by Sorption Process Using Organic Natural Sorbents
Authors: Butnariu Monica , Negrea Petru , Lupa Lavinia , Ciopec Mihaela , Negrea Adina , Pentea Marius , Sarac Ionut , Samfira Ionel
Published: September 2015

The effects of the sorption of environmental applications by various source materials of natural organic matter, i.e., bone powder, was examined. Sorption capacities and subsequent rare earth element retention characteristics of all metals tested were markedly increased by ionic task-specific. In this study, the abilities of three models’ isotherms widely were used for the equilibrium sorption data: Langmuir, Freundlich and Redlich-Peterson. For all studied metal ions the maximum adsorption capacity is close to those experimentally determined. The characteristic parameters for each isotherm and related coefficients of determination have been determined. The experimental data achieved excellent fits within the following isotherms in the order: Langmuir > Redlich-Peterson > Freundlich, based on their coefficient of determination values. The bone powder has developed higher adsorption performance in the removal process of Nd(III), Eu(III), La(III) from aqueous solutions than in the case of the removal process of Cs(I), Sr(II) and Tl(I) from aqueous solutions. The described relationships provide direct experimental evidence that the sorption-desorption properties of bone powder are closely related to their degree of the type of the metal. The results suggest a potential for obtaining efficient and cost-effective engineered natural organic sorbents for environmental applications.
Gallic Acid Is the Major Active Component of Cortex Moutan in Inhibiting Immune Maturation of Human Monocyte-Derived Dendritic Cells
Authors: Chan Ben , Li Long , Hu Shui , Wat Elaine , Wong Eric , Zhang Vanilla , Lau Clara , Wong Chun , Hon Kam , Hui Patrick , Leung Ping
Published: September 2015

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a widely prevalent and chronically relapsing inflammatory skin disease. Penta Herbs Formula (PHF) is efficacious in improving the quality of life and reducing topical corticosteroid used in children with AD and one of the active herbs it contains is Cortex Moutan. Recent studies showed that altered functions of dendritic cells (DC) were observed in atopic individuals, suggesting that DC might play a major role in the generation and maintenance of inflammation by their production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Hence, the aims of the present study were to identify the major active component(s) of Cortex Moutan, which might inhibit DC functions and to investigate their possible interactions with conventional corticosteroid on inhibiting the development of DC from monocytes. Monocyte-derived dendritic cells (moDC) culture model coupled with the high-speed counter-current chromatography (HSCCC), high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) and Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LCMS) analyses were used. Gallic acid was the major active component from Cortex Moutan which could dose dependently inhibit interleukin (IL)-12 p40 and the functional cluster of differentiation (CD) surface markers CD40, CD80, CD83 and CD86 expression from cytokine cocktail-activated moDC. Gallic acid could also lower the concentration of hydrocortisone required to inhibit the activation of DC.
COMPLEX MODEL OF MARKET PRICE DEVELOPMENT AND ITS SIMULATION
Authors: Stádník Bohumil , Miečinskienė Algita
Published: September 2015

The purpose of this study is to suggest a complex model of market price development for liquid assets, which is able to simulate all of the main features particular to the real price development and has a realistic financial explanation. First, the paper defines assumptions for the model construction from empirically observed processes. Then, the model is implemented in the real simulation environment. Finally, the ability of the model is checked to simulate empirically observed features, e.g. leptokurtic characteristics or skewness of the price distribution. Also, this paper newly defines and implements the resonance effect. FFT analysis is used to support oscillation processes. Finally, selected markets are provided with parameter optimisation of the model based on empirical observations. It was found that the model built under the previously mentioned assumptions was able to explain empirically observed effects that reversely support the correctness of those assumptions. The practical value of the constructed model can be found in many areas, including risk management and asset valuation.
An assessment approach for non-governmental organizations in humanitarian relief logistics and an application in Turkey
Authors: CELIK Erkan , TASKIN GUMUS Alev
Published: September 2015

The ever-increasing natural disasters have been causing the loss of lives, properties and resources. By the preparedness and response ability of non-governmental organizations, it is aimed to minimize these losses. In this paper, first, the critical success factors of humanitarian relief logistics management operations are determined and categorized. Then, by considering these factors, a hybrid method that consists of trapezoidal interval type-2 fuzzy sets, AHP and TOPSIS, is proposed to evaluate emergency preparedness and response ability performance of non-governmental relief organizations. The proposed hybrid method is applied for non-governmental relief organizations in Turkey to evaluate their performance, and to the factors need to be improved for each determined organization.
Le sens des mesures. Usages et circulation des chiffres dans la définition du problème public des drogues au travail
Authors: Crespin Renaud
Published: September 2015

Cet article revient sur le rôle des chiffres et des statistiques dans le processus de définition publique du problème de l’usage de drogues au travail en France. Lors de ce processus, des approches différentes ainsi que des conflits sur la définition de l’addiction ont fortement clivé l’espace des autorités publiques chargées de réguler tant le problème que le recours au dépistage biologique comme une des solutions techniques pour y répondre. Or, malgré les difficultés pour évaluer et spécifier les risques associés à la consommation de drogues au travail, des chiffres et des statistiques ont circulé dans l’espace public. Interroger le sens des usages de ces données chiffrées dans différents espaces (politique, expertise, administratif, médiatique) permet de mettre en évidence leur dimension rhétorique pour accréditer publiquement de l’existence, de la pertinence mais aussi de l’ampleur des risques comme de la nécessité de dépister pour les prévenir. Sans prétendre se faire l’arbitre des élégances statistiques, notre analyse porte sur la façon dont des données chiffrées « floues » ont participé à cadrer le problème public des drogues au travail. Pour cela, nous insistons sur trois points. D’abord, sur la mobilisation d’expertise par des associations européenne et française de toxicologues professionnels pour promouvoir auprès des autorités publiques les techniques de dépistage comme solution au problème public des drogues au travail. Ensuite, sur les effets rhétoriques (vérité, crédibilité, science-based) que produisent ces données chiffrées sur l’action publique dans le domaine des drogues au travail. Enfin, en posant la question des sources et des interprétations auxquelles ces données chiffrées ont donné lieu, nous discutons des limites de la quantification du problème des drogues au travail.
Philosophie et révélation dans le Kuzari de Juda Hallévi
Authors: Arbib Dan
Published: September 2015

Dans son ouvrage majeur, le Kuzari, Juda Hallévi déploie une critique précise de la philosophie, au profit de la révélation du Sinaï. Nous entendons montrer que cette critique est liée à la situation historique des Juifs qui suscite la rédaction du Kuzari (I), qu’elle s’adresse à un type assignable de philosophie (II) à laquelle elle substitue l’histoire (III). Ce faisant, il ne s’agit absolument pas pour Juda Hallévi de renoncer à toute exigence rationnelle, mais de la satisfaire en la resituant en son vrai lieu (IV). Cet examen permet d’éclairer, certes par le petit bout de la lorgnette, mais à travers une pensée qui occupe au Moyen Âge une position originale, une partie des enjeux qui traversent les rapports entre foi et raison dans la philosophie juive médiévale en terre d’Islam.
Recubrimientos Ni-Cr con bajo coeficiente de fricción depositados por magnetron sputtering, DC
Authors: Morales-Hernández Jorge , Mandujano-Ruíz Araceli , Torres-González Julieta , Espinoza-Beltrán Francisco J. , Herrera-Hernández Héctor
Published: September 2015

La técnica de Deposición por Chisporroteo Magnético (Magnetron Sputtering) con el proceso DC, fue usado para la deposición de los recubrimientos de Ni-Cr sobre acero inoxidable AISI 316 como sustrato. El cátodo con una composición nominal Ni-22 at% Cr fue preparado por la técnica de Aleado Mecánico (AM), con un tiempo máximo de molienda de 16 horas y con un molino de alta energía tipo SPEX 8000. Las películas se realizaron bajo una atmósfera de argón a temperatura ambiente con una potencia de 100 W a diferentes tiempos de crecimiento. La composición química, microestructura, topografía, nanodureza y abrasión de los recubrimientos fueron evaluados usando las técnicas de microanálisis por Energía Dispersa de Rayos-X (EDX), Difracción de Rayos-X (DRX), Microscopia de Fuerza Atómica (AFM), Nano-indentación y Pin-on-Disk, respectivamente. Después de molienda, no se detectó contaminación en las mezclas. Los análisis por DRX revelan que la microestructura de la aleación Ni-Cr se mantiene en los recubrimientos con respecto a los polvos AM, con ciertos grados de recristalización. Los valores de Nanodureza fueron del orden de 8,8 GPa con un módulo de Young de 195 GPa. La adhesión de las películas fue evaluada de acuerdo con su resistencia a la fractura al ser indentadas a diferentes cargas con microdureza Vickers. Los resultados de las pruebas de abrasión muestran una disminución en el coeficiente de fricción con respecto al incremento en el espesor de la película, obteniendo un valor mínimo de 0,08 con un espesor de 1 μm y que corresponde al máximo tiempo de crecimiento.
Robotic Transformation and its Business Applications in Food Industry
Authors: Mathath Anas , Fernando Yudi
Published: September 2015

The role of robots is becoming substantial for industrial applications and business competitiveness. The robot transformation in food industry has increased business productivity, reduced cost and enhanced customer experiences. The usage scale of robots has an increasing trend globally when industries modernize and increase the production capacities with ability in handling complex tasks. The objective of this chapter is to explore robotic transformation in literature and to investigate its business applications in food industry. There are two points raised in the discussion, would the robot technology which has been developed only capable owned by large scale food companies and the experiences gained in the restaurant which serves by robots can replace the human touch. At the end of this chapter, some solutions are given to shed light on the application of robot in food industry and deepen critical analysis for researchers, technocrats and business practitioners.
Race Relations in the Churches of Christ
Authors: Brice Tanya Smith
Published: September 2015

The denomination of Churches of Christ is racially segregated. While this is true for most Christian denominations, this chapter argues that this segregation is by design. This chapter presents a historical context of race relations within the Churches of Christ. Specifically, this chapter relies on primary sources to highlight this Christian denomination's doctrine that is steeped in racist ideology. Finally, this chapter concludes with suggested strategies towards racial reconciliation within the contemporary denomination.
Utilization of Acoustic Emission in Scratch Test Evaluation
Authors: Tomastik Jan , Ctvrtlik Radim , Bohac Petr , Drab Martin , Koula Vaclav , Cvrk Karel , Jastrabik Lubomir
Published: September 2015

The scratch test is a well-established instrumental method for assessment of the cohesive-adhesive parameters of thin films and coatings. Its evaluation is classically performed using the microscopic analysis of residual scratch and the indenter depth-change record. However, these analysis methods can be insufficient for detection of the very first film-to-substrate adhesion failures. To overcome this difficulty, an independent method of detection of acoustic emission signals can be employed. The detection system of acoustic emission, developed in our laboratory, utilizes a special holder and continuous recording during the whole scratch test. The piezoelectric sensor with 2 MHz sampling rate and sophisticated software allow a thorough post-process analysis of recorded acoustic emission signal. Failure events can be observed on microsecond scale and their frequency spectra can be evaluated.The demonstration of the acoustic emission probe detection capability is performed on the model layers. Comparison of the acoustic emission record to residual scratch image and indenter depth-change record shows a detection sensitivity of the method. Analysis of failure mode dynamics at the appropriate time scale is outlined.
The Effect of the Cortical Bone Thickness on the Stress Distribution in Dental Implants by FEM
Authors: Németh Dušan , Lofaj František , Kučera Ján
Published: September 2015

The stress distribution in cortical bone and dental implant has been modeled by finite element method (FEM) using linear static analysis in the case of monocortical and bicortical fixation of a real dental implant for three cortical bone thicknesses: 2 mm, 2.5 mm, 4 mm. The analysis revealed that the highest stresses in the cortical bone and in the implant after three-axial loading are localized at the edge of the cortical bone near the implant neck where bending moment is the highest. An increase of the maximum stresses has been observed with the decrease of the intraosseal length of the implant and cortical bone thickness.
Non-Destructive Analysis of Surfaces after Hard Milling Based on Barkhausen Noise Technique
Authors: Neslušan Miroslav , Hrabovský Tomáš , Kolařík Kamil , Mičietová Anna
Published: September 2015

This paper deals with the non-destructive evaluation of surface made of hardened roll bearing steel after hard milling via Barkhausen noise technique. The paper discusses magnetic anisotropy linked with the structure transformations with regard to variable flank wear of cutting tool. Effective value of Barkhausen noise (BN) and Peak Position derived from the raw BN signal as well as BN envelopes are compared with metallographic observations and theoretical background about magnetic domains reconfiguration when the near surface undergoes severe plastic deformation at elevated temperatures.
Generation of Nanoscale Stripes at Failure of Amorphous Metals
Authors: Miškuf Jozef , Csach Kornel , Juríková Alena , Hurakova Maria , Miškuf Martin , Tabachnikova Elena , Psaruk Igor , Laktionova Marina , Podolskiy Aleksey
Published: September 2015

We analyzed the failure characteristics of the metallic glass Co43Fe20Ta5.5B31.5 (at.%) deformed in bending. The nanoscale fracture surface morphology respects the micromechanisms of the failure of the amorphous structure. The fracture surfaces consist of nanosized dimples (40 nm) arranged in the lines respecting the periodic corrugation zones oriented perpendicular to the crack propagation direction. The corrugation topology exhibits the point nature of the generation site, the concentric form of the stress waves and their interference.
Short Overview of the Effects of Nanoparticles on Mechanical Properties of Concrete
Authors: Niewiadomski Paweł
Published: September 2015

Short survey of the literature revealed that the addition of nanoparticles, e.g., nano- SiO2, Al2O2, CuO, TiO2, ZnO2, Fe2O3, Cr2O3 in concrete result in improvement of its physical and mechanical properties.
The Effect of Technology on Micromechanical Properties of Rubber
Authors: Skrobak Adam , Stanek Michal , Manas David , Ovsik Martin , Senkerik Vojtech , Reznicek Martin
Published: September 2015

The aim of this article is to demonstrate to what extent there is an impact on the micromechanical properties of a standardized testing sample made of rubber compound based on synthetic rubber EPDM and produced by injection molding in comparison with a sample produced by classic preparation (cutting off a compression molded plate). Measurement of the properties was carried out according to the instrumented test (DSI), in compliance with ISO 14577 on the measuring device micro-combi-tester.
Pile-Up Correction of Mechanical Characteristics of Individual Phases in Various Steel by Depth Sensing Indentation
Authors: Burik Peter , Pešek Ladislav , Voleský Lukáš
Published: September 2015

The Oliver–Pharr method has extensively been adopted for measuring hardness and elastic modulus by indentation techniques. However, the method assumes that the contact periphery sinks in, which limits the applicability to the materials pile-up [1]. This study proposes an improved methodology to calculate the real mechanical characteristics of individual phases in various steels with significant pile-up. Pile-up correction of mechanical characteristics is based on ratio of pile-up height and contact depth. Pile-up height was measured by atomic force microscopy (AFM). The effect of grain boundaries on the shape and size of the pile-up lobes was also discussed.
Mechanical and Tribological Properties of HiPIMS and HiTUS W-C Based Coatings
Authors: Hviščová Petra , Kvetková Lenka , Lofaj František , Novák Michal , Ferdinandy Milan , Podoba Rudolf
Published: September 2015

Several series of W-C based coatings were deposited by HiPIMS and HiTUS deposition technologies with different deposition parameters (power, frequency and pulse length in HiPIMS and pressure, acetylene content and RF bias in HiTUS). To investigate their effect on the hardness and tribological properties. The hardness of HiTUS coatings was up to 36 GPa and CoFs of these coatings were around 0.5, whereas the HiPIMS coatings exhibited lower hardness (18 – 20 GPa) but also lower CoFs (0.18 - 0.2).
Wim J.C. Weren, studies in Matthew’s Gospel: Literary design, intertextuality, and social setting
Authors: Van der Merwe Dirk
Published: September 2015

This article summarises and comments on the book Studies in Matthew’s Gospel: Literary design, intertextuality, and social setting, by Wim Weren, published during 2014. The essence of this book is all about meaning: the meaning of a structure, texts, and consequently the understanding of the Gospel of Matthew. For Weren, ‘Meaning is the result of the interplay between a textual unit and such other factors as language, literary context, and cultural setting’. This relates to the three parts of the content of this monograph. His approach in studying Matthew comes from three perspectives: firstly intratextuality, then intertextuality, and finally extratextuality. He has deliberately chosen this order of successive steps so that they complement each other.
Risk factors associated with chronic low back pain in Syria
Authors: Alhalabi Mohammad Salem , Alhaleeb Hassan , Madani Sarah
Published: September 2015

Background: We aimed to identify risk factors associated with chronic low back pain (C-LBP) in Syria. Materials and Methods: We conducted the study in a busy outpatient neurology clinic in Damascus city from October 2011 to August 2012. We enrolled all eligible adults presenting with C-LBP along with those who denied any back pain as a controls. We considered C-LBP any LBP lasting over 3 months. We developed our own questionnaire. A clinical nurse interviewed each person and filled in the results. Results: We had a total of 911 subjects; 513 patients and 398 controls. We found that C-LBP increased with age. Having a sibling with C-LBP was a strong predictor of C-LBP. In women obesity, but not overweight, was a risk factor. Number of children was a risk factor for mothers. Higher level of education decreased the chance of C-LBP in women. Sedentary job increased the risk of C-LBP. Conclusion: This study sheds some light on risk factors for C-LBP in our population and might help find possible preventive measures.
English language proficiency and academic performance: A study of a medical preparatory year program in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Kaliyadan Feroze , Thalamkandathil Nazer , Parupalli Srinivas Rao , Amin Tarek Tawfik , Balaha Magdy Hassan , Al Bu Ali Waleed Hamad
Published: September 2015

Introduction: All medical schools in Saudi Arabia have English as the primary official medium of instruction. Most of the high school education, however, is delivered in Arabic and hence the transition to an English based learning environment tends to be difficult for some students. Our study aims to correlate English language proficiency with academic performance among medical students in their preparatory year.
Methods: A cross-sectional study design was used. Test scores of 103 preparatory year students (54 female and 49 male) were analyzed after the students completed an English language course and medical introductory course in their preparatory year. The total score obtained in the English course assessment was compared to each component of the medical content assessment.
Results: A significantly positive correlation (Spearman's Rho, at 0.01 levels) was seen between the scores of the English exam and the written exam (P<0.001) and the oral exam (P = −0.003) parts respectively of the medical examination. Significant correlation with the English exam score was not obtained for the other components of the medical assessment, namely; student assignments, presentations and portfolios.
Conclusion: English language proficiency is an important factor in determining academic proficiency of medical students in our college at the preparatory year level.
Observational evidence of temperature trends at two levels in the surface layer
Authors: Lin X. , Pielke Sr. R. A. , Mahmood R. , Fiebrich C. A. , Aiken R.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. Long-term surface air temperatures at 1.5 m screen level over land are used in calculating a global average surface temperature trend. This global trend is used by the IPCC and others to monitor, assess, and describe global warming or warming hiatus. Current knowledge of near-surface temperature trends with respect to height, however, is limited and inadequately understood because surface temperature observations at different heights in the surface layer in the world are rare especially from a high-quality and long-term climate monitoring network. Here we use high-quality two-height Oklahoma Mesonet observations, synchronized in time, fixed in height, and situated in relatively flat terrain, to assess temperature trends and differentiating temperature trends with respect to heights (i.e., near-surface lapse rate trend) over the period 1997 to 2013. We show that the near-surface lapse rate has significantly decreased with a trend of −0.18 ± 0.03 °C (10 m)−1 decade−1 indicating that the 9 m height temperatures increased faster than temperatures at the 1.5 m screen level and conditions at the 1.5 m height cooled faster than at the 9 m height. However, neither of the two individual height temperature trends by themselves were statistically significant. The magnitude of lapse rate trend is greatest under lighter winds at night. Nighttime lapse rate trends were significantly more negative than daytime lapse rate trends and the average lapse rate trend was three times more negative under calm conditions than under windy conditions. Our results provide the first observational evidence of near-surface temperature changes with respect to height that could enhance the assessment of climate model predictions.
Reconstruction of high-resolution time series from slow-response broadband terrestrial irradiance measurements by deconvolution
Authors: Ehrlich A. , Wendisch M.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. Broadband solar and terrestrial irradiance measurements of high temporal resolution are needed to study inhomogeneous clouds or surfaces and to derive vertical profiles of heating/cooling rates at cloud top. An efficient method to enhance the temporal resolution of slow-response measurements of broadband terrestrial irradiance using pyrgeometer is introduced. It is based on the deconvolution theorem of Fourier transform to restore amplitude and phase shift of high frequent fluctuations. It is shown that the quality of reconstruction depends on the instrument noise, the pyrgeometer response time and the frequency of the oscillations. The method is tested in laboratory measurements for synthetic time series including a boxcar function and periodic oscillations using a CGR-4 pyrgeometer with response time of 3 s. The originally slow-response pyrgeometer data were reconstructed to higher resolution and compared to the predefined synthetic time series. The reconstruction of the time series worked up to oscillations of 0.5 Hz frequency and 2 W m−2 amplitude if the sampling frequency of the data acquisition is 16 kHz or higher. For oscillations faster than 2 Hz, the instrument noise exceeded the reduced amplitude of the oscillations in the measurements and the reconstruction failed. The method was applied to airborne measurements of upward terrestrial irradiance from the VERDI (Vertical Distribution of Ice in Arctic Clouds) field campaign. Pyrgeometer data above open leads in sea ice and a broken cloud field were reconstructed and compared to KT19 infrared thermometer data. The reconstruction of amplitude and phase shift of the deconvoluted data improved the agreement with the KT19 data. Cloud top temperatures were improved by up to 1 K above broken clouds of 80–800 m size (1–10 s flight time) while an underestimation of 2.5 W m−2 was found for the upward irradiance over small leads of about 600 m diameter (10 s flight time) when using the slow-response data. The limitations of the method with respect to instrument noise and digitalization of measurements by the data acquisition are discussed.
Statistical framework for estimating GNSS bias
Authors: Vierinen J. , Coster A. J. , Rideout W. C. , Erickson P. J. , Norberg J.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. We present a statistical framework for estimating global navigation satellite system (GNSS) non-ionospheric differential time delay bias. The biases are estimated by examining differences of measured line integrated electron densities (TEC) that are scaled to equivalent vertical integrated densities. The spatio-temporal variability, instrumentation dependent errors, and errors due to inaccurate ionospheric altitude profile assumptions are modeled as structure functions. These structure functions determine how the TEC differences are weighted in the linear least-squares minimization procedure, which is used to produce the bias estimates. A method for automatic detection and removal of outlier measurements that do not fit into a model of receiver bias is also described. The same statistical framework can be used for a single receiver station, but it also scales to a large global network of receivers. In addition to the Global Positioning System (GPS), the method is also applicable to other dual frequency GNSS systems, such as GLONASS (Globalnaya Navigazionnaya Sputnikovaya Sistema). The use of the framework is demonstrated in practice through several examples. A specific implementation of the methods presented here are used to compute GPS receiver biases for measurements in the MIT Haystack Madrigal distributed database system. Results of the new algorithm are compared with the current MIT Haystack Observatory MAPGPS bias determination algorithm. The new method is found to produce estimates of receiver bias that have reduced day-to-day variability and more consistent coincident vertical TEC values.
GNAQPMS-Hg v1.0, a global nested atmospheric mercury transport model: model description, evaluation and application to trans-boundary transport of Chinese anthropogenic emissions
Authors: Chen H. S. , Wang Z. F. , Li J. , Tang X. , Ge B. Z. , Wu X. L. , Wild O. , Carmichael G. R.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. Atmospheric mercury (Hg) is a toxic pollutant and can be transported over the whole globe due to its long lifetime in the atmosphere. For the purpose of assessing Hg hemispheric transport and better characterizing regional Hg pollution, a global nested atmospheric Hg transport model (GNAQPMS-Hg – Global Nested Air Quality Prediction Modeling System for Hg) has been developed. In GNAQPMS-Hg, the gas- and aqueous-phase Hg chemistry representing the transformation among three forms of Hg: elemental mercury (Hg(0)), divalent mercury (Hg(II)), and primary particulate mercury (Hg(P)) are calculated. A detailed description of the model, including mercury emissions, gas- and aqueous-phase chemistry, and dry and wet deposition is given in this study. Worldwide observations including extensive data in China have been collected for model evaluation. Comparison results show that the model reasonably simulates the global mercury budget and the spatiotemporal variation of surface mercury concentrations and deposition. Overall, model predictions of annual total gaseous mercury (TGM) and wet deposition agree with observations within a factor of 2, and within a factor of 5 for oxidized mercury and dry deposition. The model performs significantly better in North America and Europe than in East Asia. This can probably be attributed to the large uncertainties in emission inventories, coarse model resolution and to the inconsistency between the simulation and observation periods in East Asia. Compared to the global simulation, the nested simulation shows improved skill at capturing the high spatial variability of surface Hg concentrations and deposition over East Asia. In particular, the root mean square error (RMSE) of simulated Hg wet deposition over East Asia is reduced by 24 % in the nested simulation. Model sensitivity studies indicate that Chinese primary anthropogenic emissions account for 30 and 62 % of surface mercury concentrations and deposition over China, respectively. Along the rim of the western Pacific, the contributions from Chinese sources are 11 and 15.2 % over the Korean Peninsula, 10.4 and 8.2 % over Southeast Asia, and 5.7 and 5.9 % over Japan. But for North America, Europe and western Asia, the contributions from China are all below 5 %.
Impact of ocean coupling strategy on extremes in high-resolution atmospheric simulations
Authors: Zarzycki C. M. , Reed K. A. , Bacmeister J. , Craig A. P. , Bates S. C. , Rosenbloom N. A.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. This paper discusses the sensitivity of tropical cyclone climatology to ocean coupling strategy in high-resolution configurations of the Community Earth System Model. Using two supported model setups, we demonstrate that the choice of grid on which the lowest model level wind stress and surface fluxes are computed may lead to differences in cyclone strength in multi-decadal climate simulations, particularly for the most intense cyclones. Using a deterministic framework, we show that when these surface quantities are calculated on an ocean grid that is coarser than the atmosphere, the computed frictional stress is misaligned with wind vectors in individual atmospheric grid cells. This reduces the effective surface drag, and results in more intense cyclones when compared to a model configuration where the ocean and atmosphere are of equivalent resolution. Our results demonstrate that the choice of computation grid for atmosphere/ocean interactions is non-negligible when considering climate extremes at high horizontal resolution, especially when model components are on highly disparate grids.
Use of satellite and modeled soil moisture data for predicting event soil loss at plot scale
Authors: Todisco F. , Brocca L. , Termite L. F. , Wagner W.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. The potential of coupling soil moisture and a Universal Soil Loss Equation-based (USLE-based) model for event soil loss estimation at plot scale is carefully investigated at the Masse area, in central Italy. The derived model, named Soil Moisture for Erosion (SM4E), is applied by considering the unavailability of in situ soil moisture measurements, by using the data predicted by a soil water balance model (SWBM) and derived from satellite sensors, i.e., the Advanced SCATterometer (ASCAT). The soil loss estimation accuracy is validated using in situ measurements in which event observations at plot scale are available for the period 2008–2013. The results showed that including soil moisture observations in the event rainfall–runoff erosivity factor of the USLE enhances the capability of the model to account for variations in event soil losses, the soil moisture being an effective alternative to the estimated runoff, in the prediction of the event soil loss at Masse. The agreement between observed and estimated soil losses (through SM4E) is fairly satisfactory with a determination coefficient (log-scale) equal to ~ 0.35 and a root mean square error (RMSE) of ~ 2.8 Mg ha−1. These results are particularly significant for the operational estimation of soil losses. Indeed, currently, soil moisture is a relatively simple measurement at the field scale and remote sensing data are also widely available on a global scale. Through satellite data, there is the potential of applying the SM4E model for large-scale monitoring and quantification of the soil erosion process.
El asesor de formación permanente del profesorado: perfil, trayectoria y funciones
Authors: Pinya Medina Carme , Rosselló Ramon Maria Rosa
Published: September 2015

Este artículo es el resultado de una tesis doctoral que se propone comprender la realidad del asesor de formación en un momento determinado en que su rol profesional varía, pasando de ser un asesor gestor de formación a asumir un rol más centrado en el asesoramiento de proceso. A través de entrevistas en profundidad definimos el perfil personal y profesional de los asesores de formación de las Islas Baleares; su trayectoria y su proceso de incorporación en los Centros de Profesores (CEP); y, finalmente, las funciones y competencias que desarrollan como asesores de formación. Los datos recogidos apuntan la coexistencia de diferentes roles profesionales en el colectivo de asesores, además de una indefinición del perfil de acceso a la función asesora. Sí existen coincidencias al determinar la trayectoria de acceso a la función asesora por parte de los docentes. El liderazgo y la dinamización de grupos son un exponente común en la mayoría de casos. El trabajo también pone de manifiesto la alta dispersión de funciones y tareas a la que se ve sometido este colectivo, así como la gran cantidad y heterogeneidad de competencias necesarias para afrontar la función asesora.
Modelos de formación inicial del profesorado de Educación Secundaria en España desde una perspectiva Europea
Authors: Lorenzo Vicente Juan Antonio , Muñoz Galiano Inés María , Beas Miranda Miguel
Published: September 2015

Este trabajo pretende analizar algunas claves relacionadas con los modelos de formación inicial del profesorado de Educación Secundaria desde una perspectiva internacional con referencias más específicas al modelo español. En primer lugar, realizaremos en un breve recorrido sobre la educación secundaria y sus necesidades formativas: fines, organización, estructura, carácter, duración, etc. En segundo lugar, abordaremos los modelos más característicos de la formación inicial de estos profesores: consecutivos y simultáneos, académicos y profesionales. En tercer lugar, analizaremos la estructura de la formación inicial que contiene conocimientos más generales, científicos y profesionales (con componentes teóricos y prácticos). A continuación, estableceremos una relación entre la formación inicial y el acceso a la función docente, así como la posibilidad de una titulación académica y/o profesional. En el último apartado, pondremos de relieve la cuestión de la “identidad profesional” de los futuros profesores, aspecto éste muy ligado al de la formación inicial. Por último, elaboraremos unas conclusiones finales.
A Preliminary Study on the Relationship Between Athletes' Ability to Self-Regulate and World Ranking
Authors: Dupee Margaret , Werthner Penny , Forneris Tanya
Published: September 2015

This study was designed to explore the relationship between elite athletes' self-regulation ability and their ranking at the world level using psychophysiological stress assessment profiling. Fifteen elite level athletes' psychophysiological stress response patterns were recorded during a nine-stage stress assessment. Respiration rate, heart rate, heart rate variability, skin conductance, peripheral body temperature, and electromyograph (trapezius and frontalis) were monitored. There was a significant correlation between elite athletes' overall self-regulation ability and their ranking at the world level, meaning that the better the overall self-regulation ability of the athlete, the better the world ranking. In addition, a multiple regression analysis indicated that self-regulation accounted for 76% of the variance in world ranking. Our results suggest the existence of a relationship between elite athletes' overall self-regulation ability and their ranking at the world level. Therefore, the results of this study have important implications for training of optimal psychophysiological self-regulation in athletes.
Special Issue: Evidence-Based Applications of Biofeedback and Neurofeedback in Sport
Authors: Donald Moss , Werthner Penny
Published: September 2015

The cover of this issue of Biofeedback shows Canadian Mark de Jonge, K1 200-m bronze medalist at the summer 2012 Olympic Games in London and World Champion in 2015 in the sport of CanoeKayak (credit to Jeff Cooke for the photo).
Angiostrongylus vasorum Causing Severe Granulomatous Hepatitis with Concurrent Multiple Acquired PSS
Authors: Cook Simon , Priestnall Simon L. , Blake Damer , Meeson Richard L.
Published: September 2015

A 14 mo old female Jack Russell terrier presented with a 12 hr history of vomiting and inappetence. She was subsequently diagnosed with multiple acquired portosystemic shunts during an exploratory celiotomy. Gross and histopathological hepatic abnormalities were consistent with chronic disease, including features suggestive of portal hypertension that was potentially caused by migrating and resident Angiostrongylus vasorum larvae. Fecal analysis and polymerase chain reaction of hepatic tissue confirmed the presence of Angiostrongylus vasorum. The dog recovered clinically following empirical treatment and supportive care. A lack of parasite burden was confirmed 9 wk postdiagnosis; however, serum biochemical analysis at that time was suggestive of ongoing hepatic dysfunction.