bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An investigation into the performance of four cloud droplet activation parameterisations
Authors: Simpson E. , Connolly P. , McFiggans G.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. Cloud droplet number concentration prediction is central to large-scale weather and climate modelling. The benchmark cloud parcel model calculation of aerosol particle growth and activation, by diffusion of vapour to aerosol particles in a rising parcel of air experiencing adiabatic expansion, is too computationally expensive for use in large-scale global models. Therefore the process of activation of aerosol particles into cloud droplets is parameterised with an aim to strike the optimum balance between numerical expense and accuracy. We present a detailed systematic evaluation of three cloud droplet activation parameterisations that are widely used in large-scale models and one recent update. In all cases, it is found that there is a tendency to overestimate the fraction of activated aerosol particles when the aerosol particle "median diameter" is large (between 250 and 2000 nm) in a single lognormal mode simulation. This is due to an infinite "effective simulation time" of the parameterisations compared to a prescribed simulation time in the parcel model. This problem arises in the parameterisations because it is assumed that a parcel of air rises to the altitude where maximum supersaturation occurs, regardless of whether this altitude is above the cloud top. Such behaviour is problematic because, in some cases, large aerosol can completely suppress the activation of drops. In some cases when the "median diameter" is small (between 5 and 250 nm) in a single lognormal mode the fraction of activated drops is underestimated by the parameterisations. Secondly, it is found that in dual-mode cases there is a systematic tendency towards underestimation of the fraction of activated drops, which is due to the methods used by the parameterisations to approximate the sink of water vapour.
Global meteorological drought – Part 1: Probabilistic monitoring
Authors: Dutra E. , Wetterhall F. , Di Giuseppe F. , Naumann G. , Barbosa P. , Vogt J. , Pozzi W. , Pappenberger F.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. Near-real-time drought monitoring can provide decision-makers with valuable information for use in several areas, such as water resources management, or international aid. One of the main constrains of assessing the current drought situation is associated with the lack of reliable sources of observed precipitation on a global scale available in near-real time. Furthermore, monitoring systems also need a long record of past observations to provide mean climatological conditions. To address these problems, a novel probabilistic drought monitoring methodology based on ECMWF probabilistic forecasts is presented, where probabilistic monthly means of precipitation were derived from short-range forecasts and merged with the long-term climatology of the Global Precipitation Climatology Centre (GPCC) data set. From the merged data set, the standardised precipitation index (SPI) was estimated. This methodology was compared with the GPCC first guess precipitation product as well as SPI calculations using the ECMWF ERA-Interim reanalysis and Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) precipitation data sets. ECMWF probabilistic forecasts for near-real-time monitoring are similar to GPCC and TRMM in terms of correlation and root mean square errors, with the added value of including an estimate of the uncertainty given by the ensemble spread. The real-time availability of this product and its stability (i.e. that it does not directly depend on local rain gauges or single satellite products) are also beneficial in the light of an operational implementation.
Two independent methods for mapping the grounding line of an outlet glacier – an example from the Astrolabe Glacier, Terre Adélie, Antarctica
Authors: Le Meur E. , Sacchettini M. , Garambois S. , Berthier E. , Drouet A. S. , Durand G. , Young D. , Greenbaum J. S. , Holt J. W. , Blankenship D. D. , Rignot E. , Mouginot J. , Gim Y. , Kirchner D. , de Fleurian B. , Gagliardini O. , Gillet-Chaulet F.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. The grounding line is a key element of coastal outlet glaciers, acting on their dynamics. Accurately knowing its position is fundamental for both modelling the glacier dynamics and establishing a benchmark for later change detection. Here we map the grounding line of the Astrolabe Glacier in East Antarctica (66°41' S, 140°05' E), using both hydrostatic and tidal methods. The first method is based on new surface and ice thickness data from which the line of buoyant floatation is found. The second method uses kinematic GPS measurements of the tidal response of the ice surface. By detecting the transitions where the ice starts to move vertically in response to the tidal forcing we determine control points for the grounding line position along GPS profiles. Employing a two-dimensional elastic plate model, we compute the rigid short-term behaviour of the ice plate and estimate the correction required to compare the kinematic GPS control points with the previously determined line of floatation. These two approaches show consistency and lead us to propose a grounding line for the Astrolabe Glacier that significantly deviates from the lines obtained so far from satellite imagery.
EU-US Open Skies Agreement: What Is Changed in the North Transatlantic Skies?
Authors: Morandi Valentina , Malighetti Paolo , Paleari Stefano , Redondi Renato
Published: July 2014

This article presents analysis of air service levels and competition dynamics in the transatlantic market before and after the EU-US Open Skies Agreement (OSA) signed in 2008. By comparing direct and connecting flights in a typical off-peak week, we investigate whether the EU-US OSA has led to more choices for transatlantic travelers. We examine the impact of the EU-US OSA on competition between carriers, alliances, and hub airports. The results show that the number of direct transatlantic connections and served airport pairs decreased and only indirect competition increased.
Characterization of Delay Propagation in the US Air-Transportation Network
Authors: Fleurquin Pablo , Ramasco José J. , Eguíluz Víctor M.
Published: July 2014

Complex networks provide a suitable framework to characterize air traffic. Previous works described the world air-transport network as a graph where direct flights are edges and commercial airports are vertices. In this work, we focus instead on the properties of flight delays in the US air- transportation network. We analyze flight performance data in 2010 and study the topological structure of the network as well as the aircraft rotation. The properties of flight delays, including the distribution of total delays, the dependence on the day of the week and the hour-by-hour evolution within each day, are characterized with special attention to flights accumulating delays longer than 12 hours. We find that the distributions are robust to changes in takeoff or landing operations, different moments of the year, or even different airports in the contiguous states. However, airports in remote areas (Hawaii, Alaska, Puerto Rico) can show peculiar distributions biased toward long delays. Additionally, we show that long-delayed flights have an important dependence on the destination airport.
Bed crisis and elective surgery late cancellations: An approach using the theory of constraints
Authors: Sahraoui Abderrazak , Elarref Mohamed
Published: July 2014

Late cancellations of scheduled elective surgery limit the ability of the surgical care service to achieve its goals. Attributes of these cancellations differ between hospitals and regions. The rate of late cancellations of elective surgery conducted in Hamad General Hospital, Doha, Qatar was found to be 13.14% which is similar to rates reported in hospitals elsewhere in the world; although elective surgery is performed six days a week from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm in our hospital. Simple and systematic analysis of these attributes typically provides limited solutions to the cancellation problem. Alternatively, the application of the theory of constraints with its five focusing steps, which analyze the system in its totality, is more likely to provide a better solution to the cancellation problem. To find the constraint, as a first focusing step, we carried out a retrospective and descriptive study using a quantitative approach combined with the Pareto Principle to find the main causes of cancellations, followed by a qualitative approach to find the main and ultimate underlying cause which pointed to the bed crisis. The remaining four focusing steps provided workable and effective solutions to reduce the cancellation rate of elective surgery.
Isolated sphenoid sinus lesion: A diagnostic dilemma
Authors: Alazzawi Sarmad , Shahrizal Tengku , Prepageran Narayanan , Pailoor Jayalakshmi
Published: July 2014

Isolated sphenoid sinus lesions are an uncommon entity and present with non-specific symptoms. In this case report, the patient presented with a history of headaches for a duration of one month without sinonasal symptoms. A computed tomography scan showed a soft tissue mass occupying the sphenoid sinus. An endoscopic biopsy revealed fungal infection. Endoscopic wide sphenoidotomy with excision of the sphenoid sinus lesion was then performed however, the microbiological examination post-surgery did not show any fungal elements. Instead, Citrobacter species was implicated to be the cause of infection.
Disseminated herpes simplex infection during pregnancy, rare but important to recognise
Authors: Hussain Nawar Younis , Uriel Alison , Mammen Catherine , Bonington Alec
Published: July 2014

Disseminated herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection during pregnancy is a rare, but potentially fatal condition. We present a case where prompt treatment with intravenous acyclovir resulted in a successful outcome for both mother and baby.
Uncommon gastrointestinal complications of enteric fever in a non-endemic country
Authors: Thandassery Ragesh Babu , Sharma Manik , Abdelmola Abdellatif , Derbala Moutaz F.M. , Al Kaabi Saad Rashid
Published: July 2014

Enteric fever is a systemic illness with varying presentation. It is an important infectious disease in developing countries and also in industrialized countries where many migrants reside. Enteric fever can result in complications in different organ systems and delay in identification and prompt treatment can be fatal. The important gastrointestinal complications of enteric fever include hepatitis, intestinal ulcers, bleeding and bowel perforation. We report three relatively uncommon complications of enteric fever in Qatar, a non-endemic country, ileal ulcer presenting with hematochezia; duodenal ulcer with polyserositis, cholestatic hepatitis and bone marrow suppression; enteric fever related peritonitis.
Evaluation of the timeliness and completeness of communicable disease reporting: Surveillance in The Cuban Hospital, Qatar
Authors: Garcell Humberto Guanche , Hernandez Tania M. Fernandez , Abdo Elmusbasher Abu Baker , Arias Ariadna Villanueva
Published: July 2014

Public health surveillance systems should be evaluated periodically, and should involve an assessment of system attributes. Objective: Evaluate hospital-based surveillance of communicable diseases using the elements of timeliness and data quality. Method: Descriptive study was conducted of communicable diseases reported at The Cuban Hospital, Qatar during January 2012 to December 2013. The completeness of notifications were assessed for contact number, address, place of work, and date of symptom onset. Time between the symptoms onset and physician notification, time between physician and Supreme Council of Health notification and time between physician notification and lab confirmation were calculated for each case. Analysis: Percentage of cases with documented essential information and 95% confidence interval (CI) were determined. Mean and standard deviation (SD) of time were calculated. Results: 1065 patients were reported, 75% were male, 80% non-qataries and 91.5% were group 1 (high priority) diseases. Symptom onset date was documented in 91.5% (95% CI, 89.8; 93.2) of cases; contact number in 84.7% (82.5;86.8), with lower frequencies for address (68.1%, 65.3;70.9) and place of work (60.5%, 57.5;63.4). Diagnostic time for tuberculosis was 61.7 days (SD 93.0), acute hepatitis 18.5 days (SD 17.6), typhoid fever 17.0 days (SD 11.6 days), other diseases of sexual transmission 300.2 days, chronic hepatitis 165 days and AIDS 154.5 days. The time of notification to the Supreme Council of Health for group 1 diseases was 1.2 days (SD 1.4). Conclusion: Our results show that the quality of essential data and timeliness is not sufficient to meet the needs of the health system. Additional studies should focus on the evaluation of time delay for diagnosis of high priority diseases.
Análise dos aspectos institucionais da regulação de OGMs no Brasil: boas práticas de governança ambiental?
Authors: Pizella Denise Gallo , Souza Marcelo Pereira de
Published: July 2014

A liberação para o plantio de Organismos Geneticamente Modificados (OGMs) é um assunto controverso e que requer cuidados, pois envolve a segurança alimentar do país, a soberania dos produtores quanto às sementes utilizadas e os potenciais riscos ambientais em longo prazo. Deste modo, é importante uma análise da forma como as estruturas decisórias, tanto formais quanto informais, são estabelecidas para tratar destas questões, ou seja, a governança ambiental dos OGMs no Brasil, o que será o objetivo deste artigo. Dentre as boas práticas de governança a serem analisadas, utilizar-se-ão os seguintes parâmetros: participação popular nas tomadas de decisão, acesso às informações e à justiça ambiental. Como resultados obtiveram-se: do ponto de vista da participação pública, há falhas, já que os órgãos decisórios possuem pequena permeabilidade social, pois a CTNBio realiza audiências públicas apenas quando de sua decisão ou por mandado judicial, o que limita o acesso à participação na deliberação sobre os OGMs. Quanto ao acesso às informações, também se apontaram problemas, já que o Sistema de Informações em Biossegurança não se encontra implementado. A justiça ambiental é ineficiente, pois diversos casos de contaminação de variedades orgânicas e convencionais por OGMs prejudicam economicamente tais agricultores, especialmente os primeiros, que correm risco de perder as certificações de orgânicos. Além disto, a decisão sobre a realização de estudos de impacto ambiental é determinada pela CTNBio, ferindo princípios que atribuem tal tarefa aos órgãos do SISNAMA. Conclui-se, deste modo, que a regulação de OGMs no Brasil não apresenta boas práticas de governança ambiental.
A participação da sociedade civil em instrumentos da política ambiental brasileira
Authors: Nunes Coletti Roseli
Published: July 2014

O artigo objetiva avaliar a participação da sociedade civil em processo decisório de alguns instrumentos da política ambiental brasileira, a saber: zoneamento ambiental, avaliação de impacto ambiental e o licenciamento ambiental, quando aplicados, destacando, ainda, a relevância da temática na atualidade. Para tanto, se faz uma breve revisão bibliográfica do tema em questão, com o intuito de estabelecer um arcabouço teórico conceitual acerca das possibilidades de participação pública nas tomadas de decisões ambientais. Utilizando o método de análise documental, evidencia-se a necessidade de se aprimorarem os instrumentos, as técnicas e os processos comunicativos, de forma a incentivar a ampla e irrestrita participação da sociedade civil em processos de tomada de decisão ambiental.
United States physician communication on cost of cancer care under the affordable health care act
Authors: L. Tenner Laura , E. Carroll Aaron , R. Helft Paul
Published: July 2014

Background: The aim of this study is to survey United States oncologists as healthcare system changes are implemented to reassess physician perceptions about the cost of cancer care and physicians’ perceived needs.Methods: From June through August of 2013, an electronic survey was sent to practicing oncologists across 50 states.Results: The electronic survey response rate was 15% (136 oncologists out of 899 total physicians) with respondents from 35 of the 50 states. Sixty percent of respondents thought that both out-of-pocket costs and healthcare system costs of cancer treatments were likely or extremely likely to have a larger effect on their decisions regarding which cancer treatments to recommend to patients in the future under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). A large majority of respondents felt that physician education was needed on the use of cost-effectiveness data and on communicating cost of therapies with patients, 91% and 85%, respectively.Conclusion: Respondents reported that their clinical treatment decisions are influenced by concerns over out-of-pocket patient costs, and that they want more cost and comparative effectiveness research as well as more education on how to communicate with patients about cost of therapy.
Effects of Assumed Pressure Distributions on the Fundamental Relation Used in Nanoindentation Data Analysis
Authors: Fu Guanghui
Published: July 2014

This short note shows that contact stiffness under a non-Hertzian pressure distribution is 33% higher than that under a Hertzian pressure distribution. This is due to the fact that there is no physical indenter that gives a non-Hertzian pressure distribution during elastic contact, and the fundamental relation used in nanoindentation data analysis does not apply.
Student Demographics and Outcomes in Mechanical Engineering in the U.S.
Authors: Orr Marisa K. , Lord Susan M. , Layton Richard A. , Ohland Matthew W.
Published: July 2014

Using a dataset from universities in the U.S. that includes over 90,000 first-time-in-college students and over 26,000 transfer students who majored in engineering, this work describes the demographics and outcomes for students starting in and transferring into Mechanical Engineering (ME). This aims to inform the decision making of faculty, department heads, and deans. Although men consistently outnumber women in ME, the rates of matriculation and six-year graduation vary by race/ethnicity and gender. Retention is higher in ME than in the aggregate of all engineering majors for Asian, White, and Black students, but not for Hispanic students. While about half of ME starters leave, most are replaced by switchers and transfers. Black males are noticeably absent from this ‘replacement’ population. Black males are also the least likely to stick with ME through graduation. Asian females are the most likely to graduate in ME. Pathways of ME starters and ME graduates are illustrated. Nearly half of all ME graduates started somewhere other than ME.
Application of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) in Teaching Internal Combustion Engines
Authors: Tian Zhao Feng , Abraham John
Published: July 2014

This paper reports the development of a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model of a spark ignition (SI) engine and the application of the engine model into an undergraduate internal combustion (IC) course. This two-dimensional (2D) four-stroke SI engine model simulates the combustion of the fuel, heptane, in the engine cylinder based on realistic boundary conditions. The development of the model helps engineering students better understand the combined effects of chemical reactions, species transport, flow patterns and temperature distributions in the SI engine. This model has been applied in a practical session in an undergraduate engineering course since 2012. To the best knowledge of the authors, this is the first time that CFD engine models are used as a hands-on tool in IC engine courses. Feedback from students is quite positive.
The effect of sample selection on the distinction between alcohol abuse and dependence
Authors: Steppan Martin , Piontek Daniela , Kraus Ludwig
Published: July 2014

Steppan, M., Piontek, D., & Kraus, L. (2014). The effect of sample selection on the distinction between alcohol abuse and dependence. The International Journal Of Alcohol And Drug Research, 3(2), 159-168. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.7895/ijadr.v3i2.100Aim: The effect of sample selection on the dimensionality of DSM-IV alcohol and dependence (AUD) criteria was tested applying different methods.Sample: Data from the 2006 German Epidemiological Survey of Substance Abuse (ESA) were used. A mixed-mode design was used (self-administered questionnaires and telephone interviews), and 7,912 individuals, aged 18 to 64 years, participated. The response rate was 45%. Alcohol abuse and dependence were assessed according to DSM-IV, based on the Munich Composite International Diagnostic Interview (M-CIDI). Inter-item correlations, Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), and Latent Class Analysis (LCA) were applied to the total sample (unrestricted sample, URS) and a subsample of individuals with at least one endorsed criterion (restricted sample, RS). Latent Class Factor Analysis (LCFA) was performed using the RS, including covariates (age, sex, education).Findings: The mean inter-item correlation was higher in the URS than in the RS. When individuals without criterion endorsement were excluded, factor analyses resulted in more dimensions. In the RS, LCA yielded an interaction between abuse, dependence and class membership. The LCFA identified two dimensions and five classes corresponding to abuse and dependence.Conclusions: Sample selection has a critical effect on dimensionality analyses. When individuals who do not endorse a single criterion are excluded, the bi-axial factor structure of the DSM-IV (abuse and dependence) can be supported. However, there is also evidence that a further diagnostic category should be included or that the threshold for dependence should be lowered.
Determinants of drink-driving and association between drink-driving and road traffic fatalities in Ghana
Authors: Damsere-Derry James , Afukaar Francis , Palk Gavan , King Mark
Published: July 2014

Damsere-Derry, J., Afukaar, F., Palk, G., & King, M. (2014). Determinants of drink-driving and association between drink-driving and road traffic fatalities in Ghana. The International Journal Of Alcohol And Drug Research, 3(2), 135-141. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.7895/ijadr.v3i2.135Aims: The objective is to establish determinants of drink-driving and its association with traffic crashes in Ghana.Methods: A multivariable logistic regression was used to establish significant determinants of drink-driving, and a bivariate logistic regression to establish the association between drink-driving and road traffic crashes in Ghana.Results: In total, 2,736 motorists were randomly stopped for breath testing, of whom 8.7% tested positive for alcohol. Among the total participants, 5.5% exceeded the legal BAC limit of 0.08%. Formal education is associated with a reduced likelihood of drink-driving compared with drivers without formal education. The propensity to drink-drive is 1.8 times higher among illiterate drivers than it is among drivers with basic education. Young adult drivers also recorded elevated likelihoods for driving under alcohol impairment, compared with adult drivers. The odds of drink-driving among truck drivers is OR = 1.81 (95% CI = 1.16 to 2.82) and two-wheeler riders is OR = 1.41 (95% CI = 0.47 to 4.28) compared with car drivers. Contrary to general perception, commercial car drivers have a significant reduced likelihood of 41%, OR = 0.59 (95% CI = 0.38 to 0.92) compared with private car drivers. Bivariate analysis conducted showed a significant association between the proportion of drivers exceeding the legal BAC limit and road traffic fatalities (p < 0.001). The model predicts that a 1% increase in the proportion of drivers exceeding the legal BAC will be associated with a 4% increase in road traffic fatalities (95% CI = 3% to 5%) and vice versa.Conclusions: A positive and significant association between roadside alcohol prevalence and road traffic fatality has been established. Scaling up roadside breath tests, determining standard drink (e.g., any drink which contains about 10 grams of absolute alcohol) and disseminating this information to the populace, and formulating policies targeting youth (such as increasing minimum legal drinking age and reducing the legal BAC limit for youth and novice drivers) might reduce drink-driving related crashes in Ghana.
Alcohol’s harm to others: Quantifying a little or a lot of harm
Authors: Callinan Sarah
Published: July 2014

Callinan, S. (2014). Alcohol’s harm to others: Quantifying a little or a lot of harm. The International Journal Of Alcohol And Drug Research, 3(2), 127-133. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.7895/ijadr.v3i2.160Aim: Harm to others from alcohol consumption has become a World Health Organization research priority and the subject of current or planned research in over 20 countries. The aim of the current study is to compare the efficacy of two measures commonly used to ascertain the subjective level of harm experienced by respondents that is attributable to the drinking of others.Design: A cross-sectional survey.Setting: Australian respondents were recruited using computer-assisted telephone interviewing.Participants: 448 adult respondents were asked about their experience of harm attributable to the alcohol consumption of others.Measures: Respondents were asked whether they were harmed a little or a lot by the drinking of both strangers and heavy drinkers known to them, and were asked to rate this level of harm from 1 to 10. They were also asked questions about the types of harm they experienced.Findings: Overall, respondents were fairly consistent in their responses to these two measures, with the mean score of a little or a lot of harm similar for both stranger and known drinker harms. Prediction of the two types of scores was similar, based on the respondents’ experience of harms; however, tangible stranger harm did not predict being harmed a lot.Conclusions: The 1 to 10 score is better predicted by harms experienced; however, this may be due to a lack of variance in the dichotomous question. Equivalence scores are outlined and discussed.
Extracapsular Invasion of Sentinel Lymph Nodes Is Not Associated With Disease Recurrence in Breast Cancer
Authors: Fujii Takaaki , Yajima Reina , Yamaguchi Satoru , Yanagita Yasuhiro , Fujisawa Tomomi , Hirakata Tomoko , Tsutsumi Soichi , Asao Takayuki , Iijima Misa , Kuwano Hiroyuki
Published: July 2014

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the presence of extracapsular invasion (ECI) in positive sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs) as a predictor of disease recurrence in breast cancer. SLN biopsy was performed on 318 breasts of 316 breast cancer patients, of which 50 (15.7%) had positive SLNs. Six (12.0%) of these 50 cases had disease recurrence. The clinicopathologic features of these cases were reviewed. The ECI at SLNs was not significantly associated with disease recurrence. The recurrence-free interval by Kaplan-Meier curves did not differ significantly among patients with and without ECI at SLNs. On the other hand, metastasis at non-SLNs was observed in 12 cases (24.0%) among the 50 cases with positive SLNs, and in the non-SLN metastasis group there were 7 patients with ECI at non-SLNs. Three of 7 cases with ECI at non-SLNs had disease recurrence and none of those 5 without ECI at non-SLNs had disease recurrence. Our current study suggests that the presence of ECI at metastatic SLNs is not associated with recurrent disease in breast cancer. Our results also imply that patients with ECI at positive non-SLNs have a high risk of disease recurrence.
Application of Split Gluteus Maximus Muscle–Adipofascial Turnover Flap and Subcutaneous Tension-Reducing Suture Technique in Repair of Decubitus Ulcers
Authors: Weizhong Liang , Zheng Zhou , Zuojun Zhao
Published: July 2014

The purpose of this study was to study the clinical effect of split gluteus maximus muscle–adipofascial turnover flap and tension-reducing suture in the treatment of decubitus ulcers. Thirty-one cases of sacrococcygeal decubitus ulcers were repaired by split gluteus maximus muscle–adipofascial turnover flap. The surface of flaps ranged from 5 × 6 cm to 7 × 8 cm. The skin was then closed, primarily using subcutaneous tension-reducing suture. Eighty-eight percent of the flaps (27 of 31) healed primarily. The split gluteus maximus muscle–adipofascial turnover flap and tension-reducing suture technique was found to be a highly efficient method of repairing decubitus ulcers with a relatively low ratio of recurrence.
Effects of Breast Reduction on Pulmonary Function
Authors: Kececi Yavuz , Dagistan Seyhan
Published: July 2014

Macromastia causes several health problems, and reduction surgery alleviates them successfully. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether reduction mammaplasty improves possible impairments on pulmonary functions related to macromastia. Thirty-one patients participated in the study. Pulmonary function tests were performed before and 3 months after surgery with a spirometry. Preoperative and postoperative pulmonary function values were compared using a paired t test. Two patients were found to have mild restriction in preoperative spirometric analysis, and they went to normal range in postoperative analysis. All other patients were assessed as having normal values in both preoperative and postoperative analyses. Preoperative and postoperative forced vital capacity values were 2.72 ± 0.06 and 2.79 ± 0.05 L, respectively. The difference was statistically significant (paired t test, P = 0.014). The other parameter in which breast reduction had statistically significant improvement was forced vital capacity performed/predicted ratio (paired t test, P = 0.041). Additionally, the weight of resected breast tissue correlated significantly with the change of forced vital capacity (Pearson correlation coefficient = 0.379, P = 0.036). Breast reduction surgery improves the pulmonary function parameters that are mainly influenced by restrictive states. This result led us to consider that macromastia causes a relative restriction in chest wall compliance, and reduction of breast weight may enhance chest wall compliance and improve pulmonary function.
Scalp Metastasis as the First Sign of Small-Cell Lung Cancer: Management and Literature Review
Authors: Salemis Nikolaos S. , Veloudis Georgios , Spiliopoulos Kyriakos , Nakos Georgios , Vrizidis Nikolaos , Gourgiotis Stavros
Published: July 2014

Cutaneous metastasis from primary visceral malignancy is a relatively uncommon clinical entity, with a reported incidence ranging from 0.22% to 10% among various series. However, the presence of cutaneous metastasis as the first sign of a clinically silent visceral cancer is exceedingly rare. We describe here a case of an asymptomatic male patient who presented with a solitary scalp metastasis as the initial manifestation of an underlying small-cell lung cancer. Diagnostic evaluation revealed advanced disease. We conclude that the possibility of metastatic skin disease should always be considered in the differential diagnosis in patients with a history of smoking or lung cancer presenting with cutaneous nodules. Physicians should be aware of this rare clinical entity, and appropriate investigation should be arranged for early diagnosis and initiation of the appropriate treatment. The prognosis for most patients remains poor.
A Large Retroperitoneal Malignant Solitary Fibrous Tumor
Authors: Yoh Tomoaki , Sata Ritsuko , Kobayashi Atsushi , Wada Seidai , Nakamura Yuya , Kato Tatsushi , Nakayama Hiroyuki , Okamura Ryuji
Published: July 2014

We report on a large, retroperitoneal, malignant, solitary fibrous tumor (SFT) with high proliferation activity. A 43-year-old man was admitted to our department complaining of a palpable mass. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a large retroperitoneal tumor occupying the entire abdominal cavity. A laparotomy was performed for diagnosis and treatment, which revealed a tumor in the retroperitoneum but with no invasion to the surrounding organs, thereby allowing safe macroscopic excision. Histologically, the tumor was composed of spindle-shaped cells with patternless pattern and a hemangiopericytomatous appearance. Moreover, immunohistochemical staining was positive for CD34, vimentin, Bcl-2, and CD99 and negative for desmin, S-100p, and smooth muscle actin (AMA). The tumor exhibited high cellularity, moderate mitotic activity, pleomorphism, necrosis, and hemorrhagic changes. In addition, the Ki-67 labeling index was 37%. These findings confirmed the diagnosis of malignant SFT with high proliferation activity. Subsequently, adjuvant doxorubicin plus ifosfamide chemotherapy was performed. No signs of recurrence were observed 12 months after the surgery.
Recurrent Cholangitis by Biliary Stasis Due to Non-Obstructive Afferent Loop Syndrome After Pylorus-Preserving Pancreatoduodenectomy: Report of a Case
Authors: Sanada Yukihiro , Yamada Naoya , Taguchi Masanobu , Morishima Kazue , Kasahara Naoya , Kaneda Yuji , Miki Atsushi , Ishiguro Yasunao , Kurogochi Akira , Endo Kazuhiro , Koizumi Masaru , Sasanuma Hideki , Fujiwara Takehito , Sakuma Yasunaru , Shimizu Atsushi , Hyodo Masanobu , Sata Naohiro , Yasuda Yoshikazu
Published: July 2014

We report a 71-year-old man who had undergone pylorus-preserving pancreatoduodenectomy (PPPD) using PPPD-IV reconstruction for cholangiocarcinoma. For 6 years thereafter, he had suffered recurrent cholangitis, and also a right liver abscess (S5/8), which required percutaneous drainage at 9 years after PPPD. At 16 years after PPPD, he had been admitted to the other hospital because of acute purulent cholangitis. Although medical treatment resolved the cholangitis, the patient was referred to our hospital because of dilatation of the intrahepatic biliary duct (B2). Peroral double-balloon enteroscopy revealed that the diameter of the hepaticojejunostomy anastomosis was 12 mm, and cholangiography detected intrahepatic stones. Lithotripsy was performed using a basket catheter. At 1 year after lithotripsy procedure, the patient is doing well. Hepatobiliary scintigraphy at 60 minutes after intravenous injection demonstrated that deposit of the tracer still remained in the upper afferent loop jejunum. Therefore, we considered that the recurrent cholangitis, liver abscess, and intrahepatic lithiasis have been caused by biliary stasis due to nonobstructive afferent loop syndrome. Biliary retention due to nonobstructive afferent loop syndrome may cause recurrent cholangitis or liver abscess after hepaticojejunostomy, and double-balloon enteroscopy and hepatobiliary scintigraphy are useful for the diagnosis of nonobstructive afferent loop syndrome.
Salvage Lymphadenectomy for Recurrent Esophageal Cancer After Chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Nakajima Masanobu , Domeki Yasushi , Satomura Hitoshi , Takahashi Masakazu , Sugawara Akira , Muroi Hiroto , Sasaki Kinro , Yamaguchi Satoru , Miyazaki Tatsuya , Kuwano Hiroyuki , Kato Hiroyuki
Published: July 2014

Although salvage esophagectomies are widely performed, reports on salvage lymphadenectomy (SL) are few. We review our SL cases to clarify the indications. Fifty-five patients with esophageal cancer underwent chemoradiotherapy or radiotherapy, including 3 patients with single lymph node (LN) recurrences and one with allochronic double cervical node recurrence. Our department removed 5 recurrent LNs from these 4 patients. In Case 1, right supraclavicular LN was judged to be metastatic and R0 resection was carried out; he is alive without recurrence. In Case 2, we found, allochronically, metastases in his left cervical paraesophageal LN and left supraclavicular LN; residual tumors were R1 in both lesions. He is alive despite esophageal recurrence. In Case 3, a lymphadenectomy was performed on his thoracic para-aortic LN; however, tumor was removed incompletely, and he died 4 months after SL from disease progression. In Case 4, a subcarinal LN was thought to be metastatic, and was removed but no malignant tissues detected. He died 17 months after SL from pneumonia. Our experiences suggest that some patients survive relatively long with SL. Moreover, molecular examination of resected lesions could guide subsequent therapies. SL might be more widely used for these patients if not otherwise contraindicated.
Lobar Lung Resection in Elderly Patients With Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma: Impact of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease on Surgical Outcome
Authors: Senbaklavaci O.
Published: July 2014

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) on the perioperative morbidity and mortality after lobar lung resection for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in patients aged 70 years and older. The medical records of 73 patients ≥70 years who underwent lobar lung resection for NSCLC from 2003 to 2013 at our department were reviewed retrospectively. There were 27 patients with a mean age of 73.6 years and mean predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) of 69.7% in the COPD group whereas remaining 46 patients (mean age = 75.6 years) in the non-COPD group had a mean predicted FEV1 of 79.1%. There were no significant differences in perioperative morbidity (4.8% in the COPD group versus 17.4% in the non-COPD group) between both groups. We had no perioperative mortality in both groups. Lobar lung resection for NSCLC seems to be a safe therapy option for elderly patients with COPD who are fulfilling the common functional criteria of operability so that radical surgery should remain the mainstay of treatment for early-stage NSCLC in this increasing subpopulation.
Evaluating climate model performance in the tropics with retrievals of water isotopic composition from Aura TES
Authors: Field Robert D. , Kim Daehyun , LeGrande Allegra N. , Worden John , Kelley Maxwell , Schmidt Gavin A.
Published: July 2014

We evaluate the NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies ModelE2 general circulation model over the tropics against water isotope (HDO/H2O) retrievals from the Aura Tropospheric Emission Spectrometer. Observed isotopic distributions are distinct from other observable quantities and can therefore act as an independent constraint. We perform a small ensemble of simulations with physics perturbations to the cumulus and planetary boundary layer schemes. We examine the degree to which model‐data agreement could be used to constrain a select group of internal processes in the model, namely, condensate evaporation, entrainment strength, and updraft mass flux. All are difficult to parameterize but exert strong influence over model performance. We find that the water isotope composition is more sensitive to physics changes than precipitation, temperature, or relative humidity in the lower and upper tropical tropospheres. Among the processes considered, this is most closely, and fairly exclusively, related to midtropospheric entrainment strength. Our study indicates that water isotope observations could provide useful constraints on model parameterizations.
Long‐term sea level trends: Natural or anthropogenic?
Authors: Becker M. , Karpytchev M. , Lennartz‐Sassinek S.
Published: July 2014

Detection and attribution of human influence on sea level rise are important topics that have not yet been explored in depth. We question whether the sea level changes (SLC) over the past century were natural in origin. SLC exhibit power law long‐term correlations. By estimating Hurst exponent through Detrended Fluctuation Analysis and by applying statistics of Lennartz and Bunde [2009], we search the lower bounds of statistically significant external sea level trends in longest tidal records worldwide. We provide statistical evidences that the observed SLC, at global and regional scales, is beyond its natural internal variability. The minimum anthropogenic sea level trend (MASLT) contributes to the observed sea level rise more than 50% in New York, Baltimore, San Diego, Marseille, and Mumbai. A MASLT is about 1 mm/yr in global sea level reconstructions that is more than half of the total observed sea level trend during the XXth century.
Evaluation of AERONET precipitable water vapor versus microwave radiometry, GPS, and radiosondes at ARM sites
Authors: Pérez‐Ramírez Daniel , Whiteman David N. , Smirnov Alexander , Lyamani Hassan , Holben Brent N. , Pinker Rachel , Andrade Marcos , Alados‐Arboledas Lucas
Published: July 2014

In this paper we present comparisons of Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET) precipitable water vapor (W) retrievals from Sun photometers versus radiosonde observations and other ground‐based retrieval techniques such as microwave radiometry (MWR) and GPS. The comparisons make use of the extensive measurements made within the U.S. Department of Energy Atmospheric Radiation Measurement Program (ARM), mainly at their permanent sites located at the Southern Great Plains (Oklahoma, U.S.), Nauru Islands, and Barrow (Alaska, U.S.). These places experience different types of weather which allows the comparison of W under different conditions. Radiosonde and microwave radiometry data were provided by the ARM program while the GPS data were obtained from the SOUMINET network. In general, W obtained by AERONET is lower than those obtained by MWR and GPS by ~6.0–9.0% and ~6.0–8.0%, respectively. The AERONET values are also lower by approximately 5% than those obtained from the numerous balloon‐borne radiosondes launched at the Southern Great Plains. These results point toward a consistent dry bias in the retrievals of W by AERONET of approximately 5–6% and a total estimated uncertainty of 12–15%. Differences with respect to MWR retrievals are a function of solar zenith angle pointing toward a possible bias in the MWR retrievals. Finally, the ability of AERONET precipitable water vapor retrievals to provide long‐term records of W in diverse climate regimes is demonstrated.
Immunomodulatory activity of interferon‐beta
Authors: Kasper Lloyd H. , Reder Anthony T.
Published: July 2014

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex disorder of the central nervous system that appears to be driven by a shift in immune functioning toward excess inflammation that results in demyelination and axonal loss. Beta interferons were the first class of disease‐modifying therapies to be approved for patients with MS after treatment with this type I interferon improved the course of MS on both clinical and radiological measures in clinical trials. The mechanism of action of interferon‐beta appears to be driven by influencing the immune system at many levels, including antigen‐presenting cells, T cells, and B cells. One effect of these interactions is to shift cytokine networks in favor of an anti‐inflammatory effect. The pleiotropic mechanism of action may be a critical factor in determining the efficacy of interferon‐beta in MS. This review will focus on select immunological mechanisms that are influenced by this type I cytokine.
Effects of Shortened Alkyl Chains on Solution‐Processable Small Molecules with Oxo‐Alkylated Nitrile End‐Capped Acceptors for High‐Performance Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Deng Dan , Zhang Yajie , Yuan Liu , He Chang , Lu Kun , Wei Zhixiang
Published: July 2014

Solution‐processable small molecules are significant for producing high‐performance bulk heterojunction organic solar cells (OSCs). Shortening alkyl chains, while ensuring proper miscibility with fullerene, enables modulation of molecular stacking, which is an effective method for improving device performance. Here, the design and synthesis of two solution‐processable small molecules based on a conjugated backbone with a novel end‐capped acceptor (oxo–alkylated nitrile) using octyl and hexyl chains attached to π–bridge, and octyl and pentyl chains attached to the acceptor is reported. Shortening the length of the widely used octyl chains improves self‐assembly and device performance. Differential scanning calorimetry and grazing incidence X‐ray diffraction results demonstrated that the molecule substituted by shorter chains shows tighter molecular stacking and higher crystallinity in the mixture with 6,6‐phenyl‐C71‐butyric acid methyl ester (PC71BM) and that the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the OSC is as high as 5.6% with an open circuit voltage (Voc) of 0.87 V, a current density (Jsc) of 9.94 mA cm‐2, and an impressive filled factor (FF) of 65% in optimized devices. These findings provide valuable insights into the production of highly efficient solution‐processable small molecules for OSCs.
Ethnic inequalities and sex differences in body mass index among tibet minorities in China: Implication for overweight and obesity risks
Authors: Zhao Dapeng , Li Yonglan , Zheng Lianbin
Published: July 2014

Objectives

In the present study, we for the first time investigated overweight and obesity level among Tibet minorities (Deng, Lhoba, Monba) living in remote villages at the south slope of Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau, China. For each ethnicity, the total number of population is less than 10 thousands in China.

Methods

Anthropometric measurements were conducted on adult participants of three ethnicities in Tibet, China. Totally, the whole sample consists of 141 males and 163 females. Body mass index (BMI) was adopted to evaluate the overweight and obesity level.

Results

Within each ethnicity, there was no significant sex difference on BMI. The general prevalence of overweight and obesity level of Lhoba ethnicity (18.42%) is higher than that of Monba (17.65%) and Deng ethnicity (6.29%). For each sex, the distribution of BMI classification was found to be significantly associated with ethnicity identity.

Conclusion

One possible reason for ethnic disparity among Tibet minorities in the present study is special dietary elements. Measures to prevent and cope with the problem of overweight and obesity among Tibet minorities are urgently required. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 26:856–858, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Use of Graphite as a Highly Reversible Electrode with Superior Cycle Life for Sodium‐Ion Batteries by Making Use of Co‐Intercalation Phenomena
Authors: Jache Birte , Adelhelm Philipp
Published: July 2014

Although being the standard anode material in lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs), graphite so far is considered to fail application in sodium‐ion batteries (NIBs) because the Na‐C system lacks suitable binary intercalation compounds. Here we show that this limitation can be circumvented by using co‐intercalation phenomena in a diglyme‐based electrolyte. The resulting compound is a stage‐I ternary intercalation compound with an estimated stoichiometry of Na(diglyme)2C20. Highlights of the electrode reaction are its high energy efficiency, the small irreversible loss during the first cycle, and a superior cycle life with capacities close to 100 mAh g−1 for 1000 cycles and coulomb efficiencies >99.87 %. A one‐to‐one comparison with the analogue lithium‐based cell shows that the sodium‐based system performs better and also withstands higher currents.
A Nanospherical Ordered Mesoporous Lewis Acid Polymer for the Direct Glycosylation of Unprotected and Unactivated Sugars in Water
Authors: Zhang Fang , Liang Chao , Wu Xiaotao , Li Hexing
Published: July 2014

The design of robust solid catalysts which can selectively synthesize highly functionalized carbohydrate derivatives from unprotected and unactivated simple sugars in water is an outstanding challenge. Herein we describe the preparation of a novel nanospherical ordered mesoporous Lewis acid polymer (Sc(OTf)2‐NSMP) by functionalizing the mesoporous phenol‐formaldehyde polymer framework with scandium triflate groups. In the C‐glycosylation reaction between D‐glucose and dimedone with the Sc(OTf)2‐NSMP catalyst, the conversion was 99 % and the yield of xanthone‐C‐glucoside reached 92 % after 2 days, which exceeded the previous best results. It was shown that other xanthone glycosides can be obtained from various sugars with moderate to good yields. Furthermore, the catalyst can be easily recovered and reused at least seven times without loss of catalytic activity.