bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Growth Performance and Nutrient Uptake of Oil Palm Seedling in Prenursery Stage as Influenced by Oil Palm Waste Compost in Growing Media
Authors: Rosenani A. B. , Rovica R. , Cheah P. M. , Lim C. T.
Published: February 2016

The use of composted oil palm wastes in the oil palm nursery as an organic component of growing medium for oil palm seedlings seems promising in sustainable oil palm seedling production. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of six oil palm waste compost rates (0, 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100%) on the growth performance of oil palm seedling and nutrient uptake in the prenursery stage (0–3 months). The addition of oil palm compost reduced the soil bulk density (1.32 to 0.53 g cm−3) and increased soil pH (4.7 to 5.1) of growth media. Oil palm waste compost treatment produced positive growth performance up to 70%. A regression analysis indicated in 72% of compost and topsoil mixture as a polybag growth medium was optimum in producing best growth performance of oil palm seedling in the prenursery stage. Foliar analysis implied highest nutrients uptake (N, P, K, Mg, Ca, Fe, Zn, and Cu) for seedlings grown in 60 to 100% compost media.
Oxygen Mass Transfer in an Aerated Stirred Tank with Double Impellers: A Generalized Correlation Including Spacing Impact
Authors: Issa Hayder Mohammed
Published: February 2016

Stirred aerated tanks by double impellers are used in fermentation and various biological processes for water treatment, food industry, and pharmaceutical production. In this study, a generalized correlation model was developed for the dependent parameter (kla/N). The oxygen mass transfer from air to liquid takes place by rotating the double impellers (IBRC and PBPU) in the aerated tank. This model considers Reynolds number, Froude number, power number, the liquid height, and the spacing between impellers as the most significant specifications that are related to aerated tank performance. The spacing between the impellers is considered to be a design factor of such industrial equipment due to its remarkable impact on the oxygen mass transfer.
Design of a Distribution Network Using Primal-Dual Decomposition
Authors: Marmolejo J. A. , Rodríguez R. , Cruz-Mejia O. , Saucedo J.
Published: February 2016

A method to solve the design of a distribution network for bottled drinks company is introduced. The distribution network proposed includes three stages: manufacturing centers, consolidation centers using cross-docking, and distribution centers. The problem is formulated using a mixed-integer programming model in the deterministic and single period contexts. Because the problem considers several elements in each stage, a direct solution is very complicated. For medium-to-large instances the problem falls into large scale. Based on that, a primal-dual decomposition known as cross decomposition is proposed in this paper. This approach allows exploring simultaneously the primal and dual subproblems of the original problem. A comparison of the direct solution with a mixed-integer lineal programming solver versus the cross decomposition is shown for several randomly generated instances. Results show the good performance of the method proposed.
Hematospermia and Cloacogenic Transitional Cell Carcinoma: A Twist on Significance and Meaning
Authors: Hennessey Alex M. , Clement Jessica M. , Forouhar Faripour , Taylor John A.
Published: February 2016

A 52-year-old gentleman presented with recurrent hematospermia. Further history revealed recent onset of constipation and difficulty voiding. Rectal examination revealed a firm, polypoid mass and colonoscopy showed suspicious, ulcerated lesions of the rectal mucosa with narrowing of the rectal vault. Pathology demonstrated transitional cell carcinoma of the rectum. While transitional cell carcinoma is a common genitourinary cancer, its presence in the anus and rectum is exceedingly rare. Furthermore, hematospermia is generally not associated with malignancy. This case is a remarkable example of two pathologic processes presenting in rare form and underscores the value of a thorough investigation of hematospermia when associated with other clinical symptoms.
Studies on Pumice Lightweight Aggregate Concrete with Quarry Dust Using Mathematical Modeling Aid of ACO Techniques
Authors: Rex J. , Kameshwari B.
Published: February 2016

The lightweight aggregate is an aggregate that weighs less than the usual rock aggregate and the quarry dust is a rock particle used in the concrete for the experimentation. The significant intention of the proposed technique is to frame a mathematical modeling with the aid of the optimization techniques. The mathematical modeling is done by minimizing the cost and time consumed in the case of extension of the real time experiment. The proposed mathematical modeling is utilized to predict four output parameters such as compressive strength (Mpa), split tensile strength (Mpa), flexural strength (Mpa), and deflection (in mm). Here, the modeling is carried out with three different optimization techniques like genetic algorithm (GA), particle swarm optimization (PSO), and ant colony optimization (ACO) with 80% of data from experiment utilized for the training and the remaining 20% for the validation. Finally, while testing, the error value is minimized and the performance obtained in the ACO for the parameters such as compressive strength, split tensile strength, flexural strength, and deflection is 91%, 98%, 87%, and 94% of predicted values, respectively, in the mathematical modeling.
Effects of Dendritic Cell Subset Manipulation on Airway Allergy in a Mouse Model
Authors: Murakami Ryosuke , Nakagawa Yohko , Shimizu Masumi , Wakabayashi Ayako , Negishi Yasuyuki , Hiroi Takachika , Okubo Kimihiro , Takahashi Hidemi
Published: February 2016

Background: Two major distinct subsets of dendritic cells (DCs) are arranged to regulate immune responses: DEC-205+ DCs drive Th1 polarization and 33D1+ DCs establish Th2 dominancy. Th1 polarization can be achieved either by depletion of 33D1+ DCs with a 33D1-specific monoclonal antibody (mAb) or by activation of DEC-205+ DCs via intraperitoneal injection of α-galactosylceramide (α-GalCer). We studied the effect of 33D1+ DC depletion or DEC-205+ DC activation in vivo using an established mouse model of allergic rhinitis (AR). Methods: Mice were injected intraperitoneally with OVA plus alum and challenged 4 times with daily intranasal administration of OVA. Immediately after the last challenge, allergic symptoms such as sneezing and nasal rubbing as well as the number of cells in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and nasal lavage fluid (NALF) were counted. The levels of serum OVA-specific IgG1, IgG2a, and IgE were also determined by ELISA. Results: The allergic symptom scores were significantly decreased in 33D1+ DC-depleted or DEC-205+ DC-activated AR mice. The levels of OVA-specific IgG1, IgG2a, and IgE, and the number of NALF cells, but not BALF cells, were reduced in 33D1+ DC-depleted but not in DEC-205+ DC-activated AR mice. Moreover, the activated DEC-205+ DCs suppressed histamine release from IgE-sensitized mast cells, probably through IL-12 secretion. Conclusions: The manipulation of innate DC subsets may provide a new therapeutic strategy for controlling various allergic diseases by reducing histamine release from IgE-sensitized mast cells by driving the immune response towards Th1 dominancy via activation of DEC-205+ DCs in vivo.
Gemcitabine and Capecitabine Combination Chemotherapy in Patients with Metastatic Breast Cancer Pretreated with Anthracyclines and/or Taxanes
Authors: Yao Guangyu , Cao Li , Liu Mingfeng , Chen Lujia , Hu Xiaolei , Ye Changsheng
Published: February 2016

Background: Owing to the need for effective and tolerable new regimens for the treatment of patients with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) previously treated with anthracyclines and/or taxanes, we aimed to assess the activity and safety of the gemcitabine plus capecitabine combination chemotherapy. Methods: Sixty-four patients were enrolled. Treatment consisted of gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2 intravenously on days 1 and 8, plus oral capecitabine at 1,250 mg/m2 twice daily on days 1-14. The primary end point was the overall response rate (ORR). Secondary objectives included the disease control rate (DCR), overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), toxicity, and predictive factors. Results: In the 64 patients, the ORR and DCR was 28.1 and 67.2%. Median OS and PFS were 23.6 and 13.4 months, respectively. Toxicities were mild and curable. Conclusion: The combination of gemcitabine and capecitabine is an effective and tolerable treatment for MBC previously treated with anthracyclines and/or taxanes.
What You Don't Know: Improving Family Health History Knowledge among Multigenerational Families of Mexican Origin
Authors: Goergen Andrea F. , Ashida Sato , Skapinsky Kaley , de Heer Hendrik D. , Wilkinson Anna V. , Koehly Laura M.
Published: February 2016

Background: This study investigated diabetes and heart disease family health history (FHH) knowledge and changes after providing personalized disease risk feedback. Methods: A total of 497 adults from 162 families of Mexican origin were randomized by household to conditions based on feedback recipient and content. Each provided personal and relatives' diabetes and heart disease diagnoses and received feedback materials following baseline assessment. Multivariate models were fitted to identify factors associated with the rate of ‘don't know' FHH responses. Results: At baseline, US nativity was associated with a higher ‘don't know' response rate (p = 0.002). Though confounded by country of birth, younger age showed a trend toward higher ‘don't know' response rates. Overall, average ‘don't know' response rates dropped from 20 to 15% following receipt of feedback (p < 0.001). An intervention effect was noted, as ‘don't know' response rates decreased more in households where one family member (vs. all) received supplementary risk assessments (without behavioral recommendations; p = 0.011). Conclusions: Limited FHH knowledge was noted among those born in the US and younger participants, representing a key population to reach with intervention efforts. The intervention effect suggests that ‘less is more', indicating the potential for too much information to limit health education program effectiveness.
Vascular Steal Syndrome, Optic Neuropathy, and Foreign Body Granuloma Reaction to Onyx-18 Embolization for Congenital Orbito-Facial Vascular Malformation
Authors: Liu Catherine Y. , Yonkers Marc A. , Liu Tiffany S. , Minckler Don S. , Tao Jeremiah P.
Published: February 2016

A 34-year-old patient presented with a right orbito-facial mass since childhood, consistent with a congenital arteriovenous (AV) malformation. Prior to presentation, she had multiple incomplete surgical resections and embolizations with N-butyl acetyl acrylate and Onyx-18. The patient reported gradual, progressive vision loss shortly after Onyx-18 embolization. Five months after embolization, she presented with decreased vision, disfigurement and mechanical ptosis relating to a large subcutaneous mass affecting the medial right upper eyelid and forehead. Significant exam findings included a visual acuity of 20/400 (20/60 prior to embolization), an afferent pupillary defect, and optic disc pallor. MRI and angiography revealed a persistent AV malformation with feeders from the ophthalmic artery and an absent choroidal flush to the right eye. Pathology from surgical resection showed a significant foreign body giant cell reaction to the embolization material adjacent to the vessels. We suggest that an incomplete embolization with Onyx-18 may have caused vascular steal syndrome from the ophthalmic artery.
Reimbursement in Endoscopy: How Can New Procedures Be Implemented?
Authors: Wilke Michael-Holger , Rathmayer Markus
Published: February 2016

Background: New procedures in endoscopy take time to be incorporated in the German diagnosis-related groups (DRG) system. Depending on the extent of innovation and the costs, several pathways are possible. Methods: This article provides an overview of possible pathways to implement new procedures in the German DRG payment system. Additionally, we compare the results of 2 surveys on the system of New Diagnostic and Treatment Methods (Neue Untersuchungs- und Behandlungsmethoden; NUB). Furthermore, the pathways of 2 innovations in endoscopy are described in detail and compared with the possibilities within the legal framework. Results: The different pathways like NUB applications or DRG change requests and the underlying legal framework are described in detail. The results of a survey from 2007 on the daily practice of NUB funding in Germany show that the extent of innovations which receive a positive assessment (status 1) is 46% compared to 43.7% in a survey from 2007, and that 77% of the status 1 procedures (and drugs) can be negotiated into a payment - compared to 53% in the older survey. Conclusion: Medical scientific societies should be involved in this process from the beginning. Besides the importance for the hospital application process (81.3% of all medical controllers want to have society support), the regulatory bodies (e.g. DIMDI, InEK, G-BA) also appreciate scientific statements. Two examples show the pathways in detail. For radiofrequency ablation of Barrett's esophagus, the pathway of continuous change requests was chosen, while the endoluminal conduit for the treatment of type 2 diabetes was established as NUB payment.
Detailed Surgical Anatomy of Prostate: Relationship between Urethra and Dorsal Vein Complex with Apex
Authors: Tunc Lutfi , Akin Yigit , Gumustas Huseyin , Ak Esat , Peker Tuncay , Veneziano Domenico , Guneri Cagri
Published: February 2016

Aim: To describe our surgical technique for dissecting the apex of prostate during robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RALP) and detailed surgical anatomy of prostate including relationship between urethra and dorsal vein complex with apex. Materials and Methods: In retrospective view of prospective collected data, 73 patients underwent RALP between December 2012 and September 2014. Surgical anatomy of prostate was revealed in all procedures. Quality of life (QoL) scores were assessed before, immediately after catheter removal, and 1 month after surgery. We divided urinary continence into 3 groups, as very early continence; continence at time of urethral catheter removal, early continent; and continence 1 month after surgery. The rest of the patients were accepted as continence. Results: The mean follow-up was 10.2 ± 5.4 months and mean age was 61.5 ± 6.6. Maximum protection of urethra could be provided in all. Mean catheter removal was 8.9 ± 1.7 days, and all patients were continent at the time of catheter removal. QoL scores before RALP could be protected after surgery (p = 0.2). Neither conversion to open/conventional laparoscopic surgery nor complications related with bladder neck were detected. Conclusions: Our surgical technique can be a strong candidate for being a surgical technique for preserving urethra and very early continence could be provided after surgery.
Association of FEF25-75% Impairment with Bronchial Hyperresponsiveness and Airway Inflammation in Subjects with Asthma-Like Symptoms
Authors: Malerba Mario , Radaeli Alessandro , Olivini Alessia , Damiani Giovanni , Ragnoli Beatrice , Sorbello Valentina , Ricciardolo Fabio L.M.
Published: February 2016

Background: Forced expiratory flow at 25 and 75% of the pulmonary volume (FEF25-75%) might be considered as a marker of early airway obstruction. FEF25-75% impairment might suggest earlier asthma recognition in symptomatic subjects even in the absence of other abnormal spirometry values. Objectives: The study was designed in order to verify whether FEF25-75% impairment in a cohort of subjects with asthma-like symptoms could be associated with the risk of bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR) and with airway inflammation expressed as fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) and eosinophil counts in induced sputum. Methods: Four hundred adults with a history of asthma-like symptoms (10.5% allergic) underwent spirometry, determination of BHR to methacholine (PD20FEV1), FeNO analysis and sputum induction. FEF25-75% <65% of predicted or <-1.64 z-score was considered abnormal. Results: All subjects had normal FVC, FEV1 and FEV1/FVC, while FEF25-75% was abnormal in 27.5% of them. FEF25-75% (z-score) was associated with PD20FEV1 (p < 0.001), FeNO (p < 0.001) and sputum eosinophils (p < 0.001). Patients with abnormal FEF25-75% showed higher levels of FeNO and eosinophils in induced sputum than did patients with normal FEF25-75% (p < 0.01 and p < 0.01, respectively). Subjects with abnormal FEF25-75% had an increased probability of being BHR positive (OR = 13.38; 95% CI: 6.7-26.7; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Our data show that abnormal FEF25-75% might be considered an early marker of airflow limitation associated with eosinophilic inflammation and BHR in subjects with asthma-like symptoms, indicating a role for FEF25-75% as a predictive marker of newly diagnosed asthma.
The Impact of Pharmacotherapy of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus on IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-10 Secretion
Authors: Borowska Magdalena , Dworacka Marzena , Wesołowska Anna , Winiarska Hanna , Krzyżagórska Ewa , Dworacki Grzegorz
Published: February 2016

Background: The aim of this study was to assess the impact of pharmacotherapy of diabetes on atherosclerosis, as reflected in interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and IL-10 serum levels. Methods: We studied patients with type 2 diabetes, treated with metformin, insulin combined with metformin and conventional insulin. IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-10 serum levels were assayed using BD™ Cytometric Bead Array. Multivariate analysis of covariance was performed to exclude the impact of some metabolic and anthropometric factors on differences in cytokines concentrations among the participants receiving different pharmacotherapy. Results: The serum concentrations of IL-1β and IL-6 were significantly higher and IL-10 serum levels were significantly lower in the insulin-treated group than in other therapeutic groups. Covariance analysis confirmed that differences in IL-1β and IL-6 levels were determined by pharmacotherapy and fasting plasma glucose, whereas in IL-10 levels by the therapy only. Additionally, peptide C modified differences in IL-1β levels and HbA1c in IL-6 concentrations. Conclusion: This study revealed that both pharmacotherapy and glycemic control may modify some pro-atherogenic factors, such as IL-1β and IL-6. The therapy with metformin and insulin combined with metformin seems to be much more beneficial in terms of their impact on pro-inflammatory cytokines secretion in comparison to conventional insulinotherapy.
Procedural Agreements in wto Disputes: Addressing the Sequencing Problem
Authors: Brolin Matilda J.
Published: February 2016

To ensure compliance with the outcome of its dispute settlement procedures, the World Trade Organization (wto) authorises the claimant Member to retaliate in case the respondent Member fails to comply within a certain period of time. However, the rules and procedures regarding retaliation and determination of compliance are ambiguous and have caused an interpretational problem called the sequencing problem. To address the problem, the parties to any dispute generally conclude bilateral ad hoc procedural agreements. However, by examining the procedural agreements concluded to date and by analysing the potential problems of these agreements, this article concludes that due to the dependence on the will of the parties and various aspects of the uncertain legal status of the agreements, the procedural agreements do not constitute a satisfactory method for addressing the sequencing problem. Alternatives should be considered and attempted promptly.
High-Resolution Simulations of the 2010 Pakistan Flood Event: Sensitivity to Parameterizations and Initialization Time
Authors: Viterbo Francesca , von Hardenberg Jost , Provenzale Antonello , Molini Luca , Parodi Antonio , Sy Ousmane O. , Tanelli Simone
Published: February 2016

Estimating the risk of flood-generating precipitation events in high-mountain regions with complex orography is a difficult but crucial task. Quantitative precipitation forecasts (QPFs) at fine resolution are an essential ingredient to address this issue. Along these lines, the ability of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model, operated at 3.5-km grid spacing, to reproduce the extreme meteorological event that led to the 2010 Pakistan flood and produced heavy monsoonal rain in the Indus basin is explored. The model results are compared with Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) rainfall estimates, the available ground measurements, and radar observations from the CloudSat mission. In particular, the sensitivity of the WRF simulations to the use of different convective closures (explicit and Kain–Fritsch) and microphysical parameterizations (WRF single-moment 6-class microphysics scheme and Thompson) is analyzed. The impact of using different initial conditions, associated with a different initialization day, is also examined. The use of the new-generation Distributed Simulation and Stimulation System NASA Earth Observing System Simulators Suite radar simulator allows a more accurate and extensive representation of the mesoscale processes and of the interaction with the complex orography. The results reported here indicate that the quality of the large-scale initial conditions is a prominent factor affecting the possibility of retrieving a realistic representation of this event when using a nonhydrostatic regional model.
An Assessment of the Seasonal Salinity Budget for the Upper Bay of Bengal
Authors: Wilson Earle A. , Riser Stephen C.
Published: February 2016

During each summer monsoon, the Bay of Bengal is inundated by a large amount of rain and river discharge. The effects of this freshening are gradually reversed over the course of the year, with near-surface salinities typically returning to their presummer monsoon levels before the start of the next rainy season. While the forcing responsible for the summertime freshening is clear, the processes that act to restore the bay’s salinity are not well understood. To examine these processes, the authors construct a basin-integrated, near-surface, seasonal salinity budget using data-assimilated output from the Hybrid Coordinate Ocean Model (HYCOM). From this salinity budget, it is deduced that vertical salt fluxes are primarily responsible for counterbalancing the near-surface freshening caused by the summertime freshwater fluxes. These vertical salt fluxes are largest during the months that immediately follow the summer monsoon, when the near-surface halocline is strongest. These results must be tempered with the knowledge that HYCOM misrepresents some key features of the bay’s salinity field. In particular, the model tends to overestimate salinity along the East Indian Coastal Current during its equatorward phase. Notwithstanding these biases, these results still suggest that vertical processes have a prominent role in the bay’s near-surface salinity budget.
Agulhas Current Influence on the Shelf Dynamics of the KwaZulu-Natal Bight
Authors: Lamont T. , van den Berg M. A. , Barlow R. G.
Published: February 2016

The Agulhas Current is a fast western boundary current flowing along the South African east coast, strongly influencing oceanographic variability on the adjacent KwaZulu-Natal shelf. Hydrographic observations in January 2010, July 2010, and July 1989 have been used to describe variations in geostrophic currents and water masses and to elucidate mechanisms of change in circulation and thermohaline structure. Differences in wind forcing, precipitation, and solar insolation caused modifications in stratification and mixing that resulted in seasonal changes in surface temperature, salinity, and mixed layer depth ZMLD between the austral summer and winter surveys. During January 2010, surface temperatures were elevated and there was a large range in salinity as the upper 10 m was influenced by river outflow and rainfall. In July 2010 and 1989, surface temperatures were lower and the salinity range was significantly less. The ZMLD in January 2010 was much shallower, varying between 5 and 40 m, while deeper ZMLD, from 9 to 107 m, was found in July 2010 and 1989. Cross-shelf, alongshore, and vertical variations in water masses during July 2010 and July 1989 were driven by deviations in the position of the inshore edge of the Agulhas Current and the influence of offshore cyclonic eddies. In January 2010, the close proximity of the current to the coast and shelf break caused increased Ekman veering in the bottom layers along the shelf edge and slope in the north and recirculation in the south.
People-Technology-Ecosystem Integration
Authors: Meshkati Najmedin , Tabibzadeh Maryam , Farshid Ali , Rahimi Mansour , Alhanaee Ghena
Published: February 2016

Objective:

The aim of this study is to identify the interdependencies of human and organizational subsystems of multiple complex, safety-sensitive technological systems and their interoperability in the context of sustainability and resilience of an ecosystem.

Background:

Recent technological disasters with severe environmental impact are attributed to human factors and safety culture causes. One of the most populous and environmentally sensitive regions in the world, the (Persian) Gulf, is on the confluence of an exponentially growing number of two industries—nuclear power and seawater desalination plants—that is changing its land- and seascape.

Method:

Building upon Rasmussen’s model, a macrosystem integrative framework, based on the broader context of human factors, is developed, which can be considered in this context as a “meta-ergonomics” paradigm, for the analysis of interactions, design of interoperability, and integration of decisions of major actors whose actions can affect safety and sustainability of the focused industries during routine and nonroutine (emergency) operations.

Conclusion:

Based on the emerging realities in the Gulf region, it is concluded that without such systematic approach toward addressing the interdependencies of water and energy sources, sustainability will be only a short-lived dream and prosperity will be a disappearing mirage for millions of people in the region.

Application:

This multilayered framework for the integration of people, technology, and ecosystem—which has been applied to the (Persian) Gulf—offers a viable and vital approach to the design and operation of large-scale complex systems wherever the nexus of water, energy, and food sources are concerned, such as the Black Sea.
Thermoviscoelastic behaviors of high-strain composites with shape memory polymers
Authors: Roh Jin-Ho , Kwon O-Hyun
Published: February 2016

The temperature and time-dependent behaviors of thin-walled high-strain composites including structural nonlinearity are experimentally and numerically investigated. The high-strain composites using woven fabric fibers with heat-softenable resin of shape memory polymers are fabricated. The numerical model based on the elastic properties of the woven fabric fiber considering its actual fabric geometry and the thermoviscoelastic properties of the shape memory polymer resin is developed. Experimental tests of the high-strain composite specimen are analyzed to acquire the parameters needed for its model. A thin-walled high-strain composite structure, which can be flexibly folded into an arbitrary configuration by heating, is fabricated. Furthermore, its folding and unfolding viscoelastic behaviors at elevated temperature are investigated for application in deployable space structures.
With, against and beyond Lefebvre: Planetary urbanization and epistemic plurality
Authors: Buckley Michelle , Strauss Kendra
Published: February 2016

In this paper, we discuss a number of recent efforts to critique, dismantle and problematize the categorical ontologies of ‘the urban’ and articulate an overarching epistemological framework for urban theory. Our intervention in these debates, which to date have focused primarily on Henri Lefebvre’s hypothesis regarding ‘planetary urbanization’, highlights the absence of an engagement with the long legacy within feminist urban scholarship of confronting and dismantling the categories of the ‘urban’ and ‘rural’. We argue that attending to this legacy foregrounds two conceptual and intellectual challenges that Lefebvre sets for us in his writings on the urban phenomenon. The first relates to Lefebvre’s arguments about the central role that a focus on difference and everyday life must play in understanding late capitalist urbanization and the urban condition. The second relates to Lefebvre’s articulation of the simultaneous problem and imperative of epistemological plurality within urban theory, including the role he ascribed to intellectual cooperation on the study of the urban phenomenon. We conclude by offering some thoughts on the importance Lefebvre attached to residual forms of difference – both lived and epistemological – in urban research and action, and by extension, probe some of the limits of Lefebvrian frameworks for understanding the contemporary urban condition.
The applied research of MRI with ASSET-EPI-FLAIR combined with 3D TOF MRA sequences in the assessment of patients with acute cerebral infarction
Authors: Lin Zhichao , Guo Zexiong , Qiu Lin , Yang Wanyoug , Lin Mingxia
Published: February 2016

Background

To extend the time window for thrombolysis, reducing the time for diagnosis and detection of acute cerebral infarction seems to be warranted.

Purpose

To evaluate the feasibility of implementing an array spatial sensitivity technique (ASSET)-echo-planar imaging (EPI)-fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) (AE-FLAIR) sequence into an acute cerebral infarction magnetic resonance (MR) evaluation protocol, and to assess the diagnostic value of AE-FLAIR combined with three-dimensional time-of-flight MR angiography (3D TOF MRA).

Material and Methods

A total of 100 patients (68 men, 32 women; age range, 44–82 years) with acute cerebral infarction, including 50 consecutive uncooperative and 50 cooperative patients, were evaluated with T1-weighted (T1W) imaging, T2-weighted (T2W) imaging, FLAIR, diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), 3D TOF, EPI-FLAIR, and AE-FLAIR. Conventional FLAIR, EPI-FLAIR, and AE-FLAIR were assessed by two observers independently for image quality. The optimized group (AE-FLAIR and 3D TOF) and the control group (T1W imaging, T2W imaging, conventional FLAIR, DWI, and 3D TOF) were compared for evaluation time and diagnostic accuracy.

Results

One hundred and twenty-five lesions were detected and images having adequate diagnostic image quality were in 73% of conventional FLAIR, 62% of EPI-FLAIR, and 89% of AE-FLAIR. The detection time was 12 ± 1 min with 76% accuracy and 4 ± 0.5 min with 100% accuracy in the control and the optimized groups, respectively. Inter-observer agreements of κ = 0.78 and κ = 0.81 were for the optimized group and control group, respectively.

Conclusion

With reduced acquisition time and better image quality, AE-FLAIR combined with 3D TOF may be used as a rapid diagnosis tool in patients with acute cerebral infarction, especially in uncooperative patients.
Effects of Vertical Direction and Aperture Size on the Perception of Visual Acceleration
Authors: Mueller Alexandra S. , González Esther G. , McNorgan Chris , Steinbach Martin J. , Timney Brian
Published: February 2016

It is not well understood whether the distance over which moving stimuli are visible affects our sensitivity to the presence of acceleration or our ability to track such stimuli. It is also uncertain whether our experience with gravity creates anisotropies in how we detect vertical acceleration and deceleration. To address these questions, we varied the vertical extent of the aperture through which we presented vertically accelerating and decelerating random dot arrays. We hypothesized that observers would better detect and pursue accelerating and decelerating stimuli that extend over larger than smaller distances. In Experiment 1, we tested the effects of vertical direction and aperture size on acceleration and deceleration detection accuracy. Results indicated that detection is better for downward motion and for large apertures, but there is no difference between vertical acceleration and deceleration detection. A control experiment revealed that our manipulation of vertical aperture size affects the ability to track vertical motion. Smooth pursuit is better (i.e., with higher peak velocities) for large apertures than for small apertures. Our findings suggest that the ability to detect vertical acceleration and deceleration varies as a function of the direction and vertical extent over which an observer can track the moving stimulus.
Integrated active control of independently rotating wheels on rail vehicles via observers
Authors: Lu Zheng-Gang , Sun Xiao-Jie , Yang Jun-Qi
Published: February 2016

As the well-known difficulties are that feedback signals are not easy and economical measurement in practice for active control, this paper presents a study of state estimation for active control of independently rotating wheels (IRW) based on observers. The reduced-order observer and high-order sliding mode observer are used to provide reliable and accurate estimations of the wheel pair state and track curvature using practical sensors. This proposed method uses less sensors than the one of previous studies. Furthermore, lateral accelerator and yaw velocity sensors (gyros) are economical and available for active steering and stability control system to obtain the required feedback signals. The wheels’ relative rotational speed, track curvature and yaw angle of wheelsets are the feedback signals for IRW active control approach. Computer simulations are used to verify the effectiveness of proposed methods and assess control performance in stability and negotiation.
Mapping the Pre-Holocene Surface of an Infilled Valley in the East Kent Fens, UK, with a Shear-Wave Seismic Refraction Survey
Authors: Long A. J. , Gunn C. A. , Goulty N. R. , Bedlington D. J.
Published: February 2016

In a study of the Holocene sediments in the Hacklinge-Deal area of the East Kent Fens, Southeastern England, hand-coring data has shown that the pre-Holocene surface in this area is incised by one or more valley features, now infilled with unconsolidated Holocene sediments. A shear-wave seismic refraction survey was carried out along profiles where hand-coring had failed to penetrate to bedrock in an attempt to define the detailed form of the pre-Holocene surface. The seismic refraction work was successful because of the large velocity contrast for seismic shear-waves between the Holocene sediments and the Cretaceous chalk bedrock. The seismic data showed that the maximum depth to chalk in the area was almost 20 m, and the results obtained from one profile were subsequently confirmed by hand-coring to a depth of 9 m. Hand-coring, seismic, and Ordnance Survey spot height data have been combined to produce a first estimation of the three-dimensional form of the pre-Holocene surface in the study area.
What were the Primary Forcing Mechanisms of High-Frequency Holocene Climate and Glacier Variations?
Authors: Nesje Atle , Johannessen Truls
Published: February 2016

A compilation of Holocene glacial advances throughout the world is compared with summer solar insolation integrated over the Northern Hemisphere and the magnitudes of global acid fallout from volcanic eruptions north of 20°S*** estimated from the acidity signal of annual ice layers in the Crëte and Camp Century ice cores in Greenland. Correlation analysis between glacial advances versus volcanic eruptions yielded a correlation coefficient of r = 0.71. A ‘climatic forcing’ curve (solar insolation and volcanic eruptions weighted 1:1) versus glacial advances increased the correlation coefficient to r = 0.90. This suggests that the combined effect of volcanic aerosols and orbital-related Northern Hemisphere summer insolation may have been the primary forcing mechanism of worldwide climate and glacier fluctuations throughout the Holocene.
Male and Female Plant Selection in the Cultivation of Hemp, and Variations in Fossil Cannabis Pollen Representation
Authors: Edwards Kevin J. , Whittington Graeme
Published: February 2016

Historically, hemp has been an important economic crop, yet in the absence of deposited achenes or fibres, it is difficult to infer local hemp cultivation and/or on-site retting from variations in the values for Cannabis saliva pollen. From work in Finland, it has been suggested that lower Cannabis pollen percentages in some areas may be due to the practice of removing male hemp plants while weeding, and leaving the female plants which were apparently preferred for their fibre-producing qualities. In other geographical areas, there was no sexual selection of plants, thus enabling the pollen from male plants to be introduced more abundantly into retting pools. In this paper, the bases of this supposition arc questioned, and it is suggested that in some areas, differences in the timing of anthesis and cropping/retting may explain some of the percentage variations observed in the pollen record.
A Holocene Alluvial Sequence in the lower Tyne Valley, Northern Britain: A Record of River Response to Environmental Change
Authors: Passmore David G. , Macklin Mark G. , Stevenson Anthony C. , O'Brien Colm F. , Davis Basil A.S.
Published: February 2016

Palaeoenvironmental investigations have been made of late Quaternary sediments infilling the lower Tyne valley at Scotswood, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, 18 km upstream from the mouth of the river. Attention has focused on the Holocene alluvial sedimentary sequence using sedimentological, geochemical and palynological analyses. Holocene valley floor development from c. 7500 BP has been largely dominated by a tendency towards river aggradation with some limited lateral and vertical reworking of sediments. Four alluvial fills have been identified and dated to: 1) c. 7500-4800 BP; 2) from c. 2590 BP up to the early first millennium AD and possibly as late as medieval times; 3) between the medieval period and the early seventeenth century, and 4) between the seventeenth and nineteenth centuries. Episodes of incision are dated to c. 4800-2590 BP, and to the period following the early seventeenth century. Marked variations in the rates and nature of sedimentation and erosion appear to coincide with rising post-glacial sea levels and, during the later Holocene, periods of significant catchment land use change and/or climatic deterioration.
Geomorphological Evidence of Holocene Climatic Change from Northwest Ellesmere Island, Canadian High Arctic
Authors: Evans David J.A. , England John
Published: February 2016

Proxy data from the northern coast of Ellesmere Island are used to reconstruct Holocene palaeoclimate and appear to corroborate the ice core record from the Canadian and Greenland high arctic despite some regional variation. Geomorphological evidence indicates that deglaciation was associated with a marked climatic amelioration in the late Pleistocene/early Holocene (≥10 ka BP). This contrasts with glaciers on the south side of Grant Land Mountains which started to retreat at 7.5 ka BP perhaps due to significant differences in glacioclimatic regime and the influence of the Arctic Ocean. Indicators of sea ice conditions on northern Ellesmere Island suggest that the early Holocene was a period of considerable open water. Radiocarbon dates on driftwood collected from behind the north coast ice shelves suggest that the ice shelves formed during a mid-Holocene climatic deterioration. Geomorphic evidence shows that the ice shelves are presently breaking up and melting in response to recent warming. Glaciers have responded to Holocene climate change at varying rates which are related to drainage basin size. Many large glaciers are still advancing in response to the mid-Holocene climatic deterioration. Some glaciers display evidence of dual advances which may reflect mid-Holocene and ‘Little Ice Age’ accumulation. Other evidence of ‘Little Ice Age’ cold and recent warmth is perennial snowbank retreat and fluvially eroded ice wedge polygons near sea level. Different cryogenic systems on northern Ellesmere Island have responded to Holocene climate change at various rates: 103 a for glaciers with drainage basin areas >5 km2; 102 a for ice shelves and glaciers <5 km2; and 101 a for sea ice.
Endometriosis and systemic lupus erythematosus: a population-based case–control study
Authors: Harris H R , Simard J F , Arkema E V
Published: February 2016

Objective

To investigate the association between endometriosis and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in prospectively collected population-based data.

Methods

We conducted a case–control study using Swedish registers, identifying female SLE cases from the National Patient Register and female controls sampled from the general population matched on birth year, sex and county during 1964–2011. We identified endometriosis diagnoses from the National Patient Register using ICD codes. We estimated odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals using conditional logistic regression models.

Results

We identified 2834 cases of SLE and 14,164 controls. Seventy-eight cases were diagnosed with endometriosis prior to their SLE diagnosis and 288 controls were diagnosed prior to the index date. We observed a significant association between endometriosis and subsequent SLE with an odds ratio of 1.39 (95% confidence interval = 1.09–1.78). The association was similar when requiring a laparoscopy/laparotomy within six months of the endometriosis diagnosis (odds ratio = 1.33; 95% confidence interval = 0.84–2.12) while the association was stronger when restricted to endometriosis diagnosed at the same time as hysterectomy (odds ratio = 2.26; 95% confidence interval = 1.47–3.64).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest an association between endometriosis and SLE. Future prospective studies with extended follow-up will be necessary to clarify whether this association is influenced by the timing and severity of endometriosis diagnosis.
An Examination of Poverty as the Foundation of Crisis in Northern Nigeria
Authors: Khan Aslam , Cheri Lawan
Published: February 2016

Northern Nigeria is a region that contradicts its natural endowments. Despite the existence of many economic resources such as tin, kaolin, a variety of agricultural products and a huge fertile land, the people remain in abject poverty leading to plethora of crisis in forms of insurgency, electoral violence and crime. Out of the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria, three are in the northern part of the country and they have the worst indices of poverty compared to the other zones. The Northwest with 77.7 per cent, North-central having 67.5 per cent and Northeast with 76.3 per cent, northern Nigeria becomes a hub of joblessness, crime, illiteracy, maternal mortality, early marriage and, recently, terrorism. This article uses content analysis to unravel the link between the present turmoil in northern Nigeria and the poverty indices that triggered the lingering crisis. This article shows that ineffectiveness of poverty alleviation programmes, poor resource utilisation, lack of private initiative and overdependence on scarce public jobs are the factors that caused and sustained poverty in northern Nigeria to serve as the foundation of the turbulence in all sectors of society. It recommends, inter alia, the strengthening of the private sector to provide jobs for the jobless, adherence to prudence, transparency and accountability in poverty alleviation programmes.
Same Same but Different? India–Africa Relations and Chinese Involvement in the Continent
Authors: Gieg Philipp
Published: February 2016

India’s involvement in Africa today is often viewed in economic terms only, mainly focusing on resources. The narrative of an emerging power just looking for oil is nowadays used for India’s involvement in Africa as much as for Beijing’s foray into the continent. Although both countries’ reinforced involvement in the continent is the most important development of Africa’s international relations since the end of the Cold War, this approach poses the danger of overlooking or at least playing down important nuances and possible differences between the Indian and the Chinese way of dealing with Africa today. As a matter of fact, officials in New Delhi try to dissociate their policy vis-à-vis Africa from Beijing’s ‘game plan’. But to what extent do India’s and China’s involvement in Africa actually differ? This article lays out an analytical framework for comparing Indian and Chinese involvement in Africa and subsequently helps examine historical, political and economic relations between the two emerging powers and Africa. It seeks to contribute to a more nuanced understanding of New Delhi’s involvement in Africa beyond conventional, sometimes simplistic, assumptions by contrasting India–Africa with China–Africa relations and carving out differences and similarities.
Book Review: Hussein Solomon, Terrorism and Counter-terrorism in Africa: Fighting Insurgency from Al Shabaab, Ansar Dine and Boko Haram
Authors: Moulick Somsubhra
Published: February 2016

Hussein Solomon, Terrorism and Counter-terrorism in Africa: Fighting Insurgency from Al Shabaab, Ansar Dine and Boko Haram, Palgrave Macmillan, London, 2015, 200 pp., £58.00 (hardback), ISBN 9781137489883.
Do same-sex relationships count as family? The effects of personal characteristics, values, and contact on social workers’ definitions of same-sex relationships
Authors: Shilo Guy , Cohen Orna , Gavriel-Fried Belle
Published: February 2016

This mixed-methods study examined whether heterosexual social workers define same-sex relationships within the concept of family. A sample of 490 Israeli social workers completed a survey that assessed their definition of same-sex relationships as family, their personal values, level of acquaintance with same-sex relationships, and demographics. The qualitative portion included an open-ended question on the way participants perceived social and professional changes concerning families.

Findings

Results revealed that religiosity, gender, age, the values of universalism, benevolence and tradition, and level of acquaintance with same-sex relationships were direct predictors of the respondents’ definition of same-sex relationships as family. Level of acquaintance mediated the relationships between most demographic and value variables examined and respondents’ definition of same-sex relationships as family. Qualitative analysis endorsed the quantitative analysis.

Applications

Theoretical and practice implications are discussed, underlining the central role that personal acquaintance with same-sex families has in reducing heterosexism, and the need to improve knowledge about same-sex families in social work education.
Humeral windows in revision total elbow arthroplasty
Authors: Peach Chris A. , Salama Amir , Stanley David
Published: February 2016

The use of cortical windows for revision elbow arthroplasty has not previously been widely reported. Their use aids safe revision of a well fixed humeral prosthesis and can be used in the setting of dislocation, periprosthetic fracture or aseptic loosening of the ulnar component. We describe our technique and results of cortical windows in the distal humerus for revision elbow arthroplasty surgery.
Local Television News in Salinas, California
Authors: Brown Carolyn , Chin Roemer Robin
Published: February 2016

This mixed-methods study examines how local television news informs a primarily Latino community by analyzing broadcasts recorded during a 2-month span in 2012 in Salinas, California, using cultivation theory. Its findings indicate a substantial focus on crime news stories and a disproportionate identification of Latinos as perpetrators of crime compared to the identification of Latinos as victims of crime. These patterns suggest a connection between local television news representations of Latino identity with perceptions of violence, even in predominantly Latino communities.