bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Square Root Information Increment Ensemble Filter
Authors: Psiaki Mark L.
Published: August 2016

A new type of ensemble filter is developed, one that stores and updates its state information in an efficient square root information filter form. It addresses two shortcomings of conventional ensemble Kalman filters: the coarse characterization of random forecast model error effects and the overly optimistic approximation of the estimation error statistics. The new filter uses an assumed a priori covariance approximation that is full rank but sparse, possibly with a dense low-rank increment. This matrix can be used to develop a nominal square root information equation for the system state and uncertainty. The measurements are used to develop an additional low-rank square root information equation. New algorithms provide forecasts and analyses of these increments at a computational cost comparable to that of existing ensemble Kalman filters. Model error effects are implicit in the a priori covariance time history, thereby obviating one of the reasons for including an inflation operation. The use of an a priori full-rank covariance allows the analysis operations to improve the state estimate without the need for a localization adjustment. This new filter exhibited worse performance than a typical covariance square root ensemble Kalman filter when operating on the Lorenz-96 problem in a chaotic regime. It excelled on a version of the Lorenz-96 problem where nonlinearities in the forecast model were weak, where the state vector uncertainty lay predominantly in a small subspace, and where the observations were spatially sparse. Such a problem might be representative of ionospheric space weather data assimilation where forcing variability can dominate the state uncertainty and where remote sensing data coverage can be sparse.
The Representation of Cumulus Convection in High-Resolution Simulations of the 2013 Colorado Front Range Flood
Authors: Mahoney Kelly M.
Published: August 2016

Model simulations of the 2013 Colorado Front Range floods are performed using 4-km horizontal grid spacing to evaluate the impact of using explicit convection (EC) versus parameterized convection (CP) in the model convective physics “gray zone.” Significant differences in heavy precipitation forecasts are found across multiple regions in which heavy rain and high-impact flooding occurred. The relative contribution of CP-generated precipitation to total precipitation suggests that greater CP scheme activity in areas upstream of the Front Range flooding may have led to significant downstream model error.

Heavy convective precipitation simulated by the Kain–Fritsch CP scheme in particular led to an alteration of the low-level moisture flux and moisture transport fields that ultimately prevented the generation of heavy precipitation in downstream areas as observed. An updated, scale-aware version of the Kain–Fritsch scheme is also tested, and decreased model errors both up- and downstream suggest that scale-aware updates yield improvements in the simulation of this event. Comparisons among multiple CP schemes demonstrate that there are model convective physics gray zone considerations that significantly impact the simulation of extreme rainfall in this event.
Price Comparisons under the South African Anti-dumping Laws
Authors: Khanderia Saloni
Published: August 2016

South Africa has been one of the most prolific users of anti-dumping, where the number of investigations initiated by it has far outweighed the number of imports. The methods adopted by South African anti-dumping authorities have been quite polemic given the consistent faux pas in determining if the prices of the imported product and the domestic product are even comparable. Moreover, in the real world, it rarely happens that the products being sold in the domestic market of the exporting country and the ones being sold to the importing country are physically identical, and sold under the same conditions in both these markets. Accordingly, it becomes fundamental for South Africa’s anti-dumping authority—the International Trade Administrative Commission—to ensure that these prices, namely the normal value and the export price, are comparable, before adjudging whether or not the domestic industry has suffered injury as a result of dumping. Hence, both these prices would need certain adjustments to be made, in compliance with the WTO’s Anti-Dumping Agreement, to ascertain that they have occurred at the same level of trade. Additionally, because anti-dumping duties, either in the form of provisional or definitive duties, can only be imposed by investigating authorities after they have determined that the dumped imports have caused injury to the domestic market, price comparisons become increasingly vital and in turn influence the analysis of the effect of prices on the domestic like product. This article thus analyzes price comparisons under South Africa’s most recent anti-dumping investigations, to determine whether these are even consistent with the Anti-Dumping Agreement requirements on the same.
Assessment of multiscale designer for fatigue life prediction of advanced composite aircraft structures
Authors: Yuan Zheng , Crouch Robert , Wollschlager Jeff , Fish Jacob
Published: August 2016

Multiscale Designer, developed by Altair, has been studied for its suitability for fatigue life prediction of advanced composite aircraft structures made of polymer matrix composites. The extensive experimental data provided by the Air Force Research Laboratory have been utilized to characterize the linear, non-linear, monotonic, and cyclic loading properties of micro-constituents comprising the polymer matrix composite system. The characterized properties have been then utilized to predict fatigue life and residual strength and stiffness of the aerospace grade polymer matrix composites.
State Failure and Transnational Terrorism
Authors: George Justin
Published: August 2016

Based on a country panel from 1995 to 2013, this study examines the relationship between state failure and transnational terrorism with respect to perpetrator’s proximity to the target and logistical complexity of attacks. Using concentration curves and generalized estimating equation negative binomial models, the study shows that failed states experience significantly more transnational terrorism when the perpetrators are from the home country. But these states do not produce terrorists who cross borders and carry out attacks in other countries, neither do they attract foreign perpetrators. The latter suggests that conditions in failed states present major operational challenges to foreign terrorists. State failure also causes more logistically complex attacks due to lack of effective counterterrorism measures by failed states. The main results hold true for both relative and dichotomous measures of state failure.
Effects of Stimulus Octave and Timbre on the Tuning Accuracy of Advanced College Instrumentalists
Authors: Byo James L. , Schlegel Amanda L.
Published: August 2016

The purpose of this study was to test the effects of octave and timbre on advanced college musicians’ ( N = 63) ability to tune their instruments. We asked: “Are there differences in tuning accuracy due to octave (B-flat 2, B-flat 4) and stimulus timbre (oboe, clarinet, electronic tuner, tuba)?” and “To what extent do participants’ posttuning perceptions of pitch accuracy align with actual pitch accuracy?” Participants were organized according to octave played in the tuning process, thus forming bass, tenor, and soprano groups. Results showed no significant effect due to group and no significant differences due to stimulus. There was no difference in the distribution of in-tune, sharp, and flat responses. Comparisons of participants’ performance accuracy and posttuning perceptions of task difficulty were favorable to the electronic tuner’s viability as a tuning stimulus and less so to the tuba stimulus. Participants’ responses to “describe how you know you are out of tune” and “describe the strategies you use to get in tune” brought to the foreground two observations of conceptual importance: tuning as four different and sometimes overlapping “experiences” and a self-imposed comparative strategy. Considered alongside previous research, results address developmental aspects of musicians’ tuning performance.
A garment design method based on modularization
Authors: Zhou Haimei , Xu Yanni , Wang Lichuan , Chen Yan
Published: August 2016

With the rapid increase of personalized garment requirements, intelligent garment design has attracted more and more attention. The study reported in this paper concentrates on the modularized design method of garments in order to provide theoretical support for intelligent garment design. The proposed modularized design method consists of composition and transformation of garment parts as well as their configuration and connection. There are two categories of garment parts: essential parts and non-essential parts, each of which is determined by their key design attributes. Rules of transformation for garment parts were analyzed by classification of transformation rules. Binary decision variables were introduced to decide if garment parts should be selected. A mathematical model was developed to analyze constraints of garment parts connection.
Instructors’ Use of Trigger Warnings and Behavior Warnings in Abnormal Psychology
Authors: Boysen Guy A. , Wells Anna Mae , Dawson Kaylee J.
Published: August 2016

College students have been increasingly demanding warnings and accommodations in relation to course topics they believe will elicit strong, negative emotions. These “trigger warnings” are highly relevant to Abnormal Psychology because of the sensitive topics covered in the course (e.g., suicide, trauma, sex). A survey of Abnormal Psychology instructors ( N = 131) indicated that the majority of them regularly warned students to avoid course-specific behaviors such as stigmatizing mental illness, diagnosing people they know, and sharing personal information. In contrast, the majority of instructors did not provide regular warnings over the course topics that might trigger students, and most instructors had neutral or negative opinions about trigger warnings. Overall, the results suggest that most Abnormal Psychology instructors do not view trigger warnings as essential to the teaching of sensitive topics.
Avoiding the pathologizing of children of prisoners
Authors: Knudsen Else Marie
Published: August 2016

Using the existing empirical literature and making reference to original research with Canadian children of prisoners, this Practice Note offers a caution to practitioners against making homogenizing or pathologizing assumptions about children who have a parent involved in the criminal justice system. Specifically, the notions that children of prisoners are highly likely to follow their parent to prison, are identical in their experiences of parental incarceration, or are necessarily in need of a specific counselling intervention are challenged. While children with a parent in prison are vulnerable to a variety of risk factors such as poverty, the relationship between parental incarceration, its covariates, and negative outcomes is complex. This paper concludes with four recommendations to practitioners working with families of prisoners and others involved in the justice system.
Hybrid electromagnetic shock absorber for energy harvesting in a vehicle suspension
Authors: Satpute Nitin V , Satpute Sarika N , Jugulkar Lalitkumar M
Published: August 2016

Electromagnetic harvesters need to be designed with a mechanism to amplify the coil relative velocity to ensure compact size and lower weight. This paper discusses a novel technique to use fluid link for velocity amplification in an electromagnetic shock absorber. Incorporation of the fluid amplification significantly improves harvested power, without affecting the system dynamics. Numerical modelling and experimentation of a prototype shock absorber comprising of high energy rare earth magnets have been presented. Peak coil voltage of 0.60–24.2 V was recorded during experimentation on the prototype. Experimental and simulation results validate that incorporation of the fluid amplification link improves the harvested electric power by 9702%. Comprehensive design procedure for better harvesting efficiency and vibration isolation has been discussed. Lastly incorporation of the shock absorber in McPherson strut suspension is illustrated. The real size version will be able to harvest peak power of 18–227 W for the suspension velocities of 0.15–0.4 m/s.
Cam profile optimization for the delivery system of an offset press
Authors: Ouyang Tiancheng , Wang Pan , Huang Haozhong
Published: August 2016

In this paper, a relatively new strategy known as unified optimization is applied to the cam profile optimization for the delivery system of an offset press by integrating the procedure of single objective optimization with ADAMS software. The proposed approach mainly consists of two parts that includes a single objective optimization procedure and a multibody dynamic model of cam–follower mechanism. For the procedure of single objective optimization, the design process starts from defining the follower acceleration profile by using a modified trapezoidal curve, then genetic algorithm is adopted to determine the evaluating indexes for the kinematic behavior of cam–follower mechanism in multiobjective optimization. Subsequently, sequential quadratic programming, which deals well with equality and inequality constrains, is selected as single objective optimized algorithm in this part. On the other hand, the dynamic simulation developed by ADAMS software is carried out to investigate the dynamic characteristics of cam–follower mechanism. Finally, an optimization cycle, also known as iterative process, is proposed to implement the procedure of single objective optimization and dynamic simulation alternately to improve the kinematic and dynamic characteristics of cam–follower mechanism fully. The cam profile optimization method presented in this paper provides a new tool for cam designers to avoid the undesirable impact and follower jump.
Evaluation of Reduction Accuracy of Suture-Button and Screw Fixation Techniques for Syndesmotic Injuries
Authors: Kocadal Onur , Yucel Mehmet , Pepe Murad , Aksahin Ertugrul , Aktekin Cem Nuri
Published: August 2016

Background:

Among the most important predictors of functional results of treatment of syndesmotic injuries is the accurate restoration of the syndesmotic space. The purpose of this study was to investigate the reduction performance of screw fixation and suture-button techniques using images obtained from computed tomography (CT) scans.

Methods:

Patients at or below 65 years who were treated with screw or suture-button fixation for syndesmotic injuries accompanying ankle fractures between January 2012 and March 2015 were retrospectively reviewed in our regional trauma unit. A total of 52 patients were included in the present study. Fixation was performed with syndesmotic screws in 26 patients and suture-button fixation in 26 patients. The patients were divided into 2 groups according to the fixation methods. Postoperative CT scans were used for radiologic evaluation. Four parameters (anteroposterior reduction, rotational reduction, the cross-sectional syndesmotic area, and the distal tibiofibular volumes) were taken into consideration for the radiologic assessment. Functional evaluation of patients was done using the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot scale at the final follow-up. The mean follow-up period was 16.7 ± 11.0 months, and the mean age was 44.1 ± 13.2.

Results:

There was a statistically significant decrease in the degree of fibular rotation ( P = .03) and an increase in the upper syndesmotic area ( P = .006) compared with the contralateral limb in the screw fixation group. In the suture-button fixation group, there was a statistically significant increase in the lower syndesmotic area ( P = .02) and distal tibiofibular volumes ( P = .04) compared with the contralateral limbs. The mean AOFAS scores were 88.4 ± 9.2 and 86.1 ± 14.0 in the suture-button fixation and screw fixation group, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in the functional ankle joint scores between the groups.

Conclusion:

Although the functional outcomes were similar, the restoration of the fibular rotation in the treatment of syndesmotic injuries by screw fixation was troublesome and the volume of the distal tibiofibular space increased with the suture-button fixation technique.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective comparative study.
Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer Thickness in Children With ADHD
Authors: Hergüner Arzu , Alpfidan İsmail , Yar Ahmet , Erdoğan Erkan , Metin Özge , Sakarya Yaşar , Hergüner Sabri
Published: August 2016

Objectives: The current study aims to compare retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness, macular thickness, and macular volume between children with ADHD and a control group. Method: The study group included children with ADHD and the control group consisted of age- and gender-matched participants without any psychiatric disorder. In all participants, RNFL thickness, macular thickness, and macular volume were measured by using spectral domain–optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). ADHD symptom severity was evaluated by using parent-report measures, including Conners’ Parent Rating Scale–Revised: Short Form (CPRS-R: S) and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire: Parent Form (SDQ: P). Results: We compared 90 eyes of 45 children with ADHD and 90 eyes of 45 controls. ADHD group had significantly lower RNFL thickness only in nasal quadrant than the controls. The remaining RNFL quadrants, macular thickness, and volume were not significantly different between groups. There was a reverse correlation between RNFL thickness and ADHD symptom severity. Conclusion: This is the first study examining the RNFL thickness in ADHD. Our findings showed that nasal RNFL thickness was lower, indicating reduced unmyelinated axons in the retina of children with ADHD. The results of this study support the evidence that ADHD involves a lag in cortical maturation and this is measurable in the retina.
Punch injury self-harm in young people
Authors: Oxley Cristal , Roberts Jane E , Kraemer Sebastian , Armstrong Giles
Published: August 2016

Punch injuries are a form of self-harm characterised by the intentional act of striking an object with a closed fist. We aimed to describe the characteristics and trends in young people presenting with injuries sustained via the punch mechanism. A comprehensive retrospective review of medical records was completed of all young people aged 10–18 years presenting to our Central London Emergency Department over a 12-month period. A subset of the total group was identified as the punch injury subgroup. A total of 78 punch injury presentations were identified. In this subgroup, the male:female ratio is 4.57:1; 37.18% of presentations were associated with a fracture ( n = 29) and 35.90% ( n = 28) of patients re-presented following another punch injury, as a victim of violence, or by other psychiatric presentation. In conclusion, a male preponderance was observed, with frequent re-presentations, often in high-risk circumstances. An opportunity for screening, including mental health, social and substance misuse, was identified. Further research is needed to enable targeted effective interventions in this group.
Design of dimensionally stable composites using efficient global optimization method
Authors: Aydin Levent , Aydin Olgun , Artem H Seçil , Mert Ali
Published: August 2016

Dimensionally stable material design is an important issue for space structures such as space laser communication systems, telescopes, and satellites. Suitably designed composite materials for this purpose can meet the functional and structural requirements. In this paper, it is aimed to design the dimensionally stable laminated composites by using efficient global optimization method. For this purpose, the composite plate optimization problems have been solved for high stiffness and low coefficients of thermal and moisture expansion. Some of the results based on efficient global optimization solution have been verified by genetic algorithm, simulated annealing, and generalized pattern search solutions from the previous studies. The proposed optimization algorithm is also validated experimentally. After completing the design and optimization process, failure analysis of the optimized composites has been performed based on Tsai–Hill, Tsai–Wu, Hoffman, and Hashin–Rotem criteria.
‘Missing out’: Reflections on the positioning of ethnographic research within an evaluative framing
Authors: Reynolds Joanna
Published: August 2016

Contemporary approaches to evaluating ‘complex’ social and health interventions are opening up spaces for methodologies attuned to examining contextual complexities, such as ethnography. Yet the alignment of the two agendas – evaluative and ethnographic – is not necessarily comfortable in practice. I reflect on experiences of conducting ethnographic research alongside a public health evaluation of a community-based initiative in the UK, using the lens of ‘missing out’ to examine intersections between my own ethnographic concerns and those of the communities under study. I examine potential opportunities posed by the discomfort of ‘missing out’, particularly for identifying the processes and spaces of inclusion and exclusion that contributed both to my ethnographic experiences and to the realities of the communities engaging with the initiative. This reveals productive possibilities for a focus on ‘missing out’ as a form of relating for evaluations of the impacts of such initiatives on health and social inequalities.
Achieving Broad Participation in Congregational Health Surveys at African American and Latino Churches
Authors: Hawes-Dawson Jennifer , Derose Kathryn P. , Aunon Frances M. , Dominguez Blanca X. , Felton Alexandria , Mata Michael A. , Oden Clyde W. , Paffen Sandra
Published: August 2016

Congregation-based health program evaluations often rely on surveys, but little documentation is available regarding specific methods and challenges. Here we describe methods used to achieve acceptable response rates (73–79%) in a survey of HIV-related attitudes and behaviors in two African American and three Latino churches in high HIV-prevalence communities in Los Angeles County. Survey participation was enhanced by conducting survey sessions at church-based meetings (e.g., women’s Bible study) and after worship services; employing diverse survey staff; providing participation incentives for pastors, church coordinators, and survey participants; and working collaboratively and respectfully with congregational leaders. Achieving broad participation in church-based surveys on sensitive health topics is feasible when done collaboratively with congregational leaders and with a flexible protocol, which permits tailoring survey approaches to cultural and organizational contexts and leverages available resources appropriately.
Jewish Q&A Online and the Regulation of Sexuality: Using Foucault to Read Technology
Authors: Tsuria Ruth
Published: August 2016

Religion has the power to shape our understanding of gender and sexuality through various forms of practice, discourse, authority, and regulation. As religion is increasingly experienced through digital media, we can postulate on how the use of digital media might impact religious conceptions of gender and sexuality. This research offers a first step in that direction. More specifically, I examine Jewish Question and Answer (Q&A) websites to illuminate how this medium informs and regulates understandings and practices of gender and sexuality. This study illuminates how religious (self-)regulation is happening online, through the practice of asking and cultural and technological affordances that invite users to “confess” their sexual transgressions. I suggest the term “technological incitement to confess” as a way of thinking about how digital media might shape the religious practice of Q&As. That is, offering a Foucauldian analysis, I suggest online Jewish religious Q&A websites operate as digital panopticon, where the practice of asking becomes a tool for self-regulation. Although new to the online sphere, the practice of Q&As has a long tradition in Judaism, known as Responsa. Traditional Responsa is understood as a legal document, but when this practice takes place online, I argue that, at least relative to topics of sexuality and gender, users themselves are not looking for a legal consultation, but rather seeking a space to confess their sins. What was once a legal, public matter becomes via new media a form of personal self-regulation.
Endocytosis of keratinocytes in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Sarode Sachin C , Sarode Gargi S , Kulkarni Meena , Patil Shankargouda
Published: August 2016

Objectives:

To quantify endocytosis of keratinocytes (EK) in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and correlate it with different clinical and histopathological parameters. Further, the expression of cluster of differentiation 68 (CD68) and lysozyme was studied in tumor cells to corroborate this phenomenon.

Materials and method:

EK per high-power field (HPF) was calculated on hematoxylin and eosin-stained sections and correlated with clinical and histopathological parameters. CD68 and lysozyme were studied in tumor cells using immunohistochemistry.

Results:

The mean EK per HPF was higher in stage IV (4.450 ± 2.241) than stage III (3.333 ± 1.543) OSCC ( p = 0.1978). Although there were more EK in N2 stage (4.362 ± 0.3405) as compared to N0–N1 (3.462 ± 0.4178), the results were statistically insignificant. Statistically significant difference in mean EK was observed in all the grades of OSCC: well versus moderate ( p = 0.0052), moderate versus poor ( p < 0.0001), and well versus poor ( p = 0.0001). There were significant differences in the mean EK ( p < 0.05) between different grades of stromal degenerations (mild: 2.654 ± 1.093, moderate: 5.115 ± 1.774, and severe: 7.250 ± 2.217). Statistically significant differences were observed in CD68 expression in tumor cells of various TNM stages ( p = 0.049), histopathological grades ( p = 0.045), and stromal degeneration ( p = 0.024). Likewise, lysozyme expression in tumor cells was also statistically significant in histopathological grades ( p = 0.004) and mean EK value ( p = 0.0119).

Conclusion:

The mean EK in OSCC increases with increasing histopathological grades, TNM stages, and stromal degeneration. CD68 and lysozyme can be used as markers of EK in OSCC.
Histopathological analysis of oral squamous cell carcinoma in nonsmokers and nondrinkers
Authors: Belobrov Simone , Angel Christopher , Wiesenfeld David , McCullough Michael
Published: August 2016

A distinct clinical subgroup of nonsmoking (NS) and nondrinking (ND) patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) has been identified. The objective of the study was to assess this cohort for molecular variations in the disease process and if these could be attributed to clinical or epidemiological characteristics. One hundred and twenty-nine consecutive patients (71 males, 58 females) treated for OSCC were assessed at the Royal Melbourne Hospital between January 2007 and July 2010. Formalin-fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) sections were stained for p53, p16, cyclin D1, and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Biomarker overexpression was observed in 72 (56%) cases for p53, 23 (18%) for p16, 45 (35%) for cyclin D1, and 72 (56%) for EGFR. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that tongue tumors ( p = 0.012) and late stage cancers ( p = 0.031) were more likely to have cyclin D1 overexpression. Further, older patients significantly more often had cyclin D1 overexpression ( p = 0.008) and NSND patients had more p16 expression ( p = 0.043). In contrast, smokers were more likely to have EGFR overexpression ( p = 0.033). Concurrent overexpression of p53 and cyclin D1 were observed ( p = 0.030). Smoking, site, and stage of OSCC can influence biomarker expression, with p16 overexpression specifically observed in NSND, indicating fundamental differences in the mechanisms of oral carcinogenesis among different patient cohorts.
Elucidating risk factors for oral leukoplakia affecting gingivae in Japanese subjects
Authors: Nagao Toru , Warnakulasuriya Saman , Hasegawa Shogo , Sakuma Hidenori , Miyabe Satoru , Komaki Kanji , Ishii Koh , Machida Junichiro , Kimura Masashi , Kuroyanagi Norio , Saito Terumi , Takeuchi Go , Ohyabu Takuya , Shimozato Kazuo , Hashimoto Shuji
Published: August 2016

Background:

Clinicopathological studies have revealed some distinct anatomical variations in the clinical presentation of oral leukoplakia (OL). Screening studies have shown that gingival leukoplakia (GL) to be more common among the Japanese.

Objective:

A hospital-based case-control study was undertaken among patients diagnosed with OL to compare clinico-pathological data between GL and OL affecting other sites (n-GL).

Methods:

One hundred fifty-one subjects attending four city hospitals in Japan diagnosed with OL were recruited to this study. OL was diagnosed by World Health Organization criteria. They were interviewed for risk factors, clinical presentations were charted and investigated by patch testing for allergy to dental materials and by biopsy for dysplasia.

Results:

Eighty-eight with GL and 63 with n-GL were included in the study. GL lesions were predominantly white (93%) though n-GL leukoplakia had red (speckled) foci in 26%. Eighty percent of GL were seen in association with prosthesis or restorations. There were no significant differences by age or in tobacco and alcohol use in the two groups. Metal allergy test was positive in 58% of the GL but was not significantly higher compared to the n-GL (41%). Histopathological features showed that inflammatory cell infiltrate was predominant in n-GL group ( p = 0.021). Higher dysplasia grades were also found in n-GL ( p = 0.018). During follow-up, nine oral cancers (14%) were detected in n-GL group and among GL cases four developed oral carcinomas (5%) ( p = 0.043). Cox hazard regression analysis revealed that after adjusting for age and sex, GL group was found to have a lower malignant risk, with a hazard ratio of 0.89 (95% CI: 0.51–1.04) when compared to n-GL.

Conclusions:

GL was more benign compared to n-GL in Japanese subjects, though risk factors appear similar. Further study is warranted to ascertain whether trauma may play an important role for hyperkeratinization of gingival tissues and possible evolution of GL to proliferative verrucous leukoplakia in later years.
A protocol for a systematic review of clinical guidelines and published systematic reviews on the early detection of oral cancer
Authors: Al Bulushi Naeema M , Macpherson Lorna MD , Worlledge-Andrew Heather , Gibson John , Ross Alastair J , Conway David I
Published: August 2016

Background:

The predicted increase in incidence of oral cavity cancer (OCC) coupled with high mortality and poor prognosis – particularly when diagnosed at a late/advanced stage – highlights the need for prevention and early detection/screening to reverse these trends. Dental healthcare professionals in primary care settings have a pivotal role in this effort.

Aim:

The aim of this protocol is to detail the process for assessing the evidence for the best practice and methods of early detection/screening for OCC in primary care dental settings by undertaking a systematic review of global clinical guidelines and published systematic reviews.

Method:

Searches for clinical guidelines and systematic reviews will be conducted in the following databases: Cochrane library, Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (Ovid), Excerpta Medical dataBASE, PubMed, Turning Research into Practice, SCOPUS and Web of Science Core Collection. Our search will extend to include Google Scholar and international professional organizations/associations websites. In addition, we will handsearch the bibliographies and undertake citation searches of the selected papers. Quality appraisal will be undertaken using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation version II instrument for the clinical guidelines and both A MeaSurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews and Risk of Bias in Systematic Reviews tools for the systematic reviews. A narrative synthesis approach will be used to assess the evidence of extracted data, primarily taking account of quality appraisal and recency of publication.

Discussion:

The synthesis of evidence will determine best practice for OCC early detection/screening by primary care dental healthcare professionals and will evaluate the relationship between clinical guidelines and the evidence base available from systematic reviews in this area.
Morphokinetics of embryos—where are we now?
Authors: Pirkevi Çetinkaya Caroline , Kahraman Semra
Published: August 2016

Conventional embryo selection by morphological evaluation is still related to relatively low implantation and live birth rates. To resolutely take up this challenge, noninvasive and invasive methods of embryo selection are still debated regarding their improvement on in vitro fertilization (IVF) success rates. Within the past few years, combining morphology with kinetics has inspired a new field named “morphokinetics,” which enabled a new way of evaluating and selecting embryos by continuous surveillance. Many studies have tried to connect more or less conclusively embryo development, timing of the mitotic divisions, embryo viability, and implantation. The aim of this review is to summarize the current understanding of time-lapse monitoring in the IVF laboratory and to discuss the evidence regarding morphokinetics as a predictive method for blastocyst formation, aneuploidy detection, and implantation potential.
Targeting FLT3-ITD signaling mediates ceramide-dependent mitophagy and attenuates drug resistance in AML
Authors: Dany Mohammed , Gencer Salih , Nganga Rose , Thomas Raquela J. , Oleinik Natalia , Baron Kyla D. , Szulc Zdzislaw M. , Ruvolo Peter , Kornblau Steven , Andreeff Michael , Ogretmen Besim
Published: August 2016

Key Points

FLT3-ITD mutations suppress ceramide generation, and FLT3-ITD inhibition mediates ceramide-dependent mitophagy, leading to AML cell death. Alteration of mitochondrial ceramide prevents mitophagy, resulting in resistance to FLT3-ITD inhibition which is attenuated by LCL-461.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Knowledge, attitude
and practices in relation to prevention and control of schistosomiasis infection in
Mwea Kirinyaga county, Kenya
Authors: Mwai J , Njenga S , Barasa M
Published: August 2016

Background

Schistosomiasis remains a major public health problem in Kenya.
Inadequate knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) on causative factors are some
of the critical factors for the increased prevalence. The study assessed KAP on
the control and prevention of schistosomiasis infection in Mwea division,
Kirinyaga County-Kenya. Four hundred and sixty five house-hold heads were enrolled
in this study by use of simple random sampling technique.

Methods

The study employed an analytical descriptive cross sectional design
utilizing both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. A pretested
structured questionnaire, Focus Group Discusions (FGDs) and Key Informant
Interviews (KII) guides were used for data collection. Descriptive statistics and
Chi square tests and Fisher’s exact tests were computed where applicable. Data
from the FGDs and KIIs were analyzed using NUID.IST NUIRO.6 software.

Results

Significant associations between knowledge and demographic factors
i.e. age (p = 0.011), education level
(p = 0.046), were reported. Handwashing after
visiting the toilet (p = 0.001), having a
toilet facility at home (p = 0.014); raring
animals at home (p = 0.031), households being
affected by floods (p = 0.005) and frequency of
visits to the paddies (p = 0.037) had a
significant association with respondents practices and schistosomiasis infection.
Further significance was reported on households being affected by floods during
the rainy season (p < 0.001), sources of
water in a household (p < 0.047) and having
a temporary water body in the area (p = 0.024)
with increase in schistosomiasis infection. Results revealed that respondents
practices were not significantly associated with gender (p = 0.060), marital status (p = 0.71), wearing of protective gear (p = 0.142) and working on the paddies (p = 0.144).

Conclusions

This study reveals that knowledge about the cause, transmission,
symptoms and prevention of schistosomiasis among the Mwea population was
inadequate, and that this could be a challenging obstacle to the elimination of
schistosomiasis in these communities. Due to various dominant risk factors,
different control strategies should be designed. Therefore, there is a need for
integrated control programme to have a lasting impact on transmission of
schistosomiasis infection. Control programs like mass drug administration need to
go beyond anti-helminthic treatment and that there is a need of a more
comprehensive approach including access to clean water, sanitation and hygiene.
School and community-based health education is also imperative among these
communities to significantly reduce the transmission and morbidity from
schistosomiasis.
Collecting clinical data in primary ciliary dyskinesia- challenges and opportunities
Authors: Amirav Israel , Roduta Roberts Mary , Mussaffi Huda , Mandelberg Avigdor , Roth Yehudah , Abitbul Revital , Luder Anthony , Blau Hannah , Alkrinawi Soliman , Aviram Micha , Ben-Ami Marta , Rotschild Moshe , Bentur Lea , Shoseyov David , Cohen-Cymberknoh Malena , Kerem Eitan , Avital Avraham , Springer Chaim , Hevroni Avigdor , Dabbah Husein , Elizur Arnon , Picard Elie , Goldberg Shmuel , Rivlin Joseph , Livnat Galit , Lavie Moran , Alias Nael , Soferman Ruth , Olbrich Heike , Raidt Johanna , Wallmeier Julia , Werner Claudius , Loges Niki T. , Omran Heymut
Published: August 2016

Rationale: Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is under diagnosed and underestimated. Most clinical research has used some form of questionnaires to capture data but none has been critically evaluated particularly with respect to its end-user feasibility and utility.

Objective: To critically appraise a clinical data collection questionnaire for PCD used in a large national PCD consortium in order to apply conclusions in future PCD research.

Methods: We describe the development, validation and revision process of a clinical questionnaire for PCD and its evaluation during a national clinical PCD study with respect to data collection and analysis, initial completion rates and user feedback.

Results: 14 centers participating in the consortium successfully completed the revised version of the questionnaire for 173 patients with various completion rates for various items. While content and internal consistency analysis demonstrated validity, there were methodological deficiencies impacting completion rates and end-user utility. These deficiencies were addressed resulting in a more valid questionnaire.

Conclusions: Our experience may be useful for future clinical research in PCD. Based on the feedback collected on the questionnaire through analysis of completion rates, judgmental analysis of the content, and feedback from experts and end users, we suggest a practicable framework for development of similar tools for various future PCD research.
On the Positive Expected Utility of Combination Wagers
Authors: Buraimo Babatunde , Peel David , Simmons Rob
Published: August 2016

We demonstrate that a utility maximizing individual with an everywhere concave utility function may optimally wager on two or more outcomes in an event even though the expected returns to a unit stake are negative on all outcomes except one.
Incorporation of iron and organic matter into young Antarctic sea ice during its initial growth stages
Authors: Janssens Julie , Meiners Klaus M. , Tison Jean-Louis , Dieckmann Gerhard , Delille Bruno , Lannuzel Delphine
Published: August 2016

This study reports concentrations of iron (Fe) and organic matter in young Antarctic pack ice and during its initial growth stages in situ. Although the importance of sea ice as an Fe reservoir for oceanic waters of the Southern Ocean has been clearly established, the processes leading to the enrichment of Fe in sea ice have yet to be investigated and quantified. We conducted two in situ sea-ice growth experiments during a winter cruise in the Weddell Sea. Our aim was to improve the understanding of the processes responsible for the accumulation of dissolved Fe (DFe) and particulate Fe (PFe) in sea ice, and of particulate organic carbon and nitrogen, dissolved organic carbon, extracellular polymeric substances, inorganic macro-nutrients (silicic acid, nitrate and nitrite, phosphate and ammonium), chlorophyll a and bacteria. Enrichment indices, calculated for natural young ice and ice newly formed in situ, indicate that during Antarctic winter all of the measured forms of particulate matter were enriched in sea ice compared to underlying seawater, and that enrichment started from the initial stages of sea-ice formation. Some dissolved material (DFe and ammonium) was also enriched in the ice but at lower enrichment indices than the particulate phase, suggesting that size is a key factor for the incorporation of impurities in sea ice. Low chlorophyll a concentrations and the fit of the macro-nutrients (with the exception of ammonium) with their theoretical dilution lines indicated low biological activity in the ice. From these and additional results we conclude that physical processes are the dominant mechanisms leading to the enrichment of DFe, PFe, organic matter and bacteria in young sea ice, and that PFe and DFe are decoupled during sea-ice formation. Our study thus provides unique quantitative insight into the initial incorporation of impurities, in particular DFe and PFe, into Antarctic sea ice.
Short Communication: New record of Linum austriacum var. album from Iran
Authors: TALEBI SEYED MEHDI , SHEIDAI MASOUD , NOORI MITRA
Published: August 2016

Abstract. Talebi SM, Sheidai M, Noori M. 2016. Short Communication: New record of Linum austriacum var. album from Iran. Nusantara Bioscience 8: 174-179. Different infraspecific taxa were described for Linum austriacum in various flora all over the world, while no verity/subspecies was recorded for this species in Iran. In the present study, for the first time, a new variety of the species, in the name of L. austriacum var. album were introduced for Iran. This variety was found in near Famenin city in Hamadan province. Comparison of morphological and phytochemical traits of var. album with its two nearest taxa, Linum austriacum var. austriacum and L. glaucum, showed that the main morphological difference of this variety with L. austriacum var. austriacum was the petal color, however most of morphological characteristics of var. album were bigger than var. austriacum. In addition, the kinds, as well as amount of flavonoids, differed between the studied taxa
A Nanoparticle-Lectin Immunoassay Improves Discrimination of Serum CA125 from Malignant and Benign Sources
Authors: Gidwani Kamlesh , Huhtinen Kaisa , Kekki Henna , van Vliet Sandra , Hynninen Johanna , Koivuviita Niina , Perheentupa Antti , Poutanen Matti , Auranen Annika , Grenman Seija , Lamminmäki Urpo , Carpen Olli , van Kooyk Yvette , Pettersson Kim
Published: August 2016

BACKGROUND

Measurement of serum cancer antigen 125 (CA125) is the standard approach for epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) diagnostics and follow-up. However, the clinical specificity is not optimal because increased values are also detected in healthy controls and in benign diseases. CA125 is known to be differentially glycosylated in EOC, potentially offering a way to construct CA125 assays with improved cancer specificity. Our goal was to identify carbohydrate-reactive lectins for discriminating between CA125 originating from EOC and noncancerous sources.

METHODS

CA125 from the OVCAR-3 cancer cell line, placental homogenate, and ascites fluid from patients with cirrhosis were captured on anti-CA125 antibody immobilized on microtitration wells. A panel of lectins, each coated onto fluorescent europium-chelate–doped 97-nm nanoparticles (Eu+3-NPs), was tested for detection of the immobilized CA125. Serum samples from high-grade serous EOC or patients with endometriosis and healthy controls were analyzed.

RESULTS

By using macrophage galactose-type lectin (MGL)-coated Eu+3-NPs, an analytically sensitive CA125 assay (CA125MGL) was achieved that specifically recognized the CA125 isoform produced by EOC, whereas the recognition of CA125 from nonmalignant conditions was reduced. Serum CA125MGL measurement better discriminated patients with EOC from endometriosis compared to conventional immunoassay. The discrimination was particularly improved for marginally increased CA125 values and for earlier detection of EOC progression.

CONCLUSIONS

The new CA125MGL assay concept could help reduce the false-positive rates of conventional CA125 immunoassays. The improved analytical specificity of this test approach is dependent on a discriminating lectin immobilized in large numbers on Eu+3-NPs, providing both an avidity effect and signal amplification.
Prognostic Value of Secretoneurin in Patients with Acute Respiratory Failure: Data from the FINNALI Study
Authors: Myhre Peder L , Ottesen Anett H , Okkonen Marjatta , Linko Rita , Stridsberg Mats , Nygård Ståle , Christensen Geir , Pettilä Ville , Omland Torbjørn , Røsjø Helge
Published: August 2016

BACKGROUND

We examined whether secretoneurin (SN), a biomarker associated with cardiomyocyte Ca2+ handling, provides prognostic information in patients with acute respiratory failure (ARF).

METHODS

We included 490 patients with ARF, defined as ventilatory support >6 h, with blood samples available on admission to the intensive care unit (ICU). SN concentrations were measured by RIA.

RESULTS

A total of 209 patients (43%) were hospitalized with cardiovascular (CV)-related ARF, and 90-day mortality rates were comparable between CV- and non–CV-related ARF (n = 281): 31% vs 24%, P = 0.11. Admission SN concentrations were higher in nonsurvivors than in survivors in both CV-related (median 148 [quartile 1–3, 117–203] vs 108 [87–143] pmol/L, P < 0.001) and non–CV-related ARF (139 [115–184] vs 113 [91–139] pmol/L, P < 0.001). In patients with CV-related ARF, SN concentrations on ICU admission were associated with 90-day mortality [odds ratio (OR) 1.97 (95% CI, 1.04–3.73, P = 0.04)] after adjusting for established risk indices, including N-terminal-pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) concentrations. SN also improved patient classification in CV-related ARF as assessed by the net reclassification index: 0.32 (95% CI, 0.04–0.59), P = 0.03. The area under the curve (AUC) of SN to predict mortality in patients with CV-related ARF was 0.72 (95% CI, 0.65–0.79), and the AUC of NT-proBNP was 0.64 (0.56–0.73). In contrast, SN concentrations on ICU admission did not provide incremental prognostic value to established risk indices in patients with non–CV-related ARF, and the AUC was 0.67 (0.60–0.75).

CONCLUSIONS

SN concentrations measured on ICU admission provided incremental prognostic information to established risk indices in patients with CV-related ARF, but not in patients with non–CV-related ARF.