bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase SHP-1 Modulates T Cell Responses by Controlling Cbl-b Degradation
Authors: Xiao Yun , Qiao Guilin , Tang Juan , Tang Rong , Guo Hui , Warwar Samantha , Langdon Wallace Y. , Tao Lijian , Zhang Jian
Published: September 2015

Previously, we demonstrated that CD28 and CTLA-4 signaling control Casitas-B-lineage lymphoma (Cbl)-b protein expression, which is critical for T cell activation and tolerance induction. However, the molecular mechanism(s) of this regulation remains to be elucidated. In this study, we found that Cbl-b fails to undergo tyrosine phosphorylation upon CD3 stimulation because SHP-1 is recruited to and dephosphorylates Cbl-b, whereas CD28 costimulation abrogates this interaction. In support of this finding, T cells lacking SHP-1 display heightened tyrosine phosphorylation and ubiquitination of Cbl-b upon TCR stimulation, which correlates with decreased levels of Cbl-b protein. The aberrant Th2 phenotype observed in T cell–specific Shp1−/− mice is reminiscent of heightened Th2 response in Cblb−/− mice. Indeed, overexpressing Cbl-b in T cell–specific Shp1−/− T cells not only inhibits heightened Th2 differentiation in vitro, but also Th2 responses and allergic airway inflammation in vivo. Therefore, SHP-1 regulates Cbl-b–mediated T cell responses by controlling its tyrosine phosphorylation and ubiquitination.
Trends and Predictors of Mortality among HIV Positive Patients in the Era of Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy in Uganda
Authors: Rubaihayo John , Tumwesigye Nazarius M. , Konde-Lule Joseph , Makumbi Fredrick , Nakku Edith J. , Wamani Henry , Etukoit Michael B.
Published: September 2015

Knowledge of mortality trends and predictors among HIV-positive patients in the era of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) in resource poor settings is still limited. The aim of this study was to describe trends and predictors of mortality among HIV-positive patients in the era of HAART in Uganda. Data from 2004 to 2013 for adult HIV-positive patients (≥15 years) obtaining care and treatment from the AIDS Support Organization in Uganda were reviewed for mortality. Descriptive statistics were analyzed by frequencies and cross tabulations. Calendar period was used as a proxy measure for HAART exposure and a time plot of the proportion of HIV-positive patients reporting dead per year was used to describe the trends. Logistic regression was used to determine the predictors of mortality at bivariate and multivariate levels, respectively. We included in the analysis 95,857 HIV positive patients; 64% were female with median age of 33 years (interquartile range 27-40). Of these 36,133 (38%) were initiated on ART and a total of 4279 (4.5%) died; 19.5% (835/4279) of those who died had an opportunistic infection. Overall, mortality first increased between 2004 and 2006 and thereafter substantially declined (X2trend=211.9, P<0.001). Mortality was relatively higher in Eastern Uganda compared to other geographical areas. Male gender, older age (>45 years), being from Eastern or Northern Uganda, having none or primary education, being unemployed, advanced immunodeficiency (CD4 count <100 cell/μL or WHO stage III or IV) and underweight (<45 kg weight) at HAART initiation and calendar period 2004-2008 were significant predictors of mortality (P<0.001). Overall, the expanding coverage of HAART is associated with a declining trend in mortality among HIV positive patients in Uganda. However, mortality trends differed significantly by geographical area and men remain potentially at higher risk of death probably because of delayed initiation on ART. There is urgent need for men targeted interventions for improved ART performance.
Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis due to Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in a Patient with Cirrhosis: The Potential Role for Daptomycin and Review of the Literature
Authors: Falcone Marco , Russo Alessandro , Pacini Giovanni , Merli Manuela , Venditti Mario
Published: September 2015

Gram-positive cocci are emerging causes of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP), especially in patients with healthcare-associated infections. We report the case of a 68-year-old man with hepatitis C virus and alcohol-related cirrhosis who developed SBP due to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus treated with daptomycin. We discuss the potential role of daptomycin in this setting with a review of the literature about the use of daptomycin in primary or secondary bacterial peritonitis.
Sharing in the life of the person with disability: A Ghanaian perspective
Authors: Owusu-Ansah Frances E.
Published: September 2015

This thought article was a hermeneutic inquiry into the experiences of informal caregivers of the elderly who are also physically disabled. The experiences of some Ghanaian informal caregivers were examined in three clinical cases and laced with the lived experiences of the author as an informal caregiver and clinician. Two processes were explored. The first relates to how a caregiver is changed through the experience of caregiving by examining the intrapersonal and interpersonal dynamics affecting caregiving. Secondly, the positive ‘shifts’ that occurred in therapy were explored. In the present Ghanaian society it appears that care for the elderly disabled is compounded by the rapid migration of many Ghanaians to ‘greener pastures’ in search of a brighter future, with consequent empty homesteads and fragmentation of the socio-cultural practices that hitherto buttressed informal care for the aged. In the absence of well-established professional care facilities, informal caregiving with its numerous challenges has become the norm for many. This article posited that caregiver self-care is the most important, and yet often forgotten, aspect of informal caregiving. When this is neglected, caregiver burnout is sure to occur, which results in poor physical, mental and emotional health for the caregiver. In this state caregivers may injure both themselves and the care recipients.
Evaluation of Candidate Biomarkers of Type 1 Diabetes via the Core for Assay Validation
Authors: Speake Cate , Odegard Jared M.
Published: September 2015

Recognizing an increasing need for biomarkers that predict clinical outcomes in type 1 diabetes (T1D), JDRF, a major funding organization for T1D research, recently instituted the Core for Assay Validation (CAV) to accelerate the translation of promising assays from discovery to clinical implementation via a process of coordinated evaluation of biomarkers. In this model, the CAV facilitates the validation of candidate assay methods as well as qualification of proposed biomarkers for a specific clinical use in well-characterized patients. We describe here a CAV-driven pilot project aimed at identifying biomarkers that predict the rate of decline in beta cell function after diagnosis. In a formalized pipeline, candidate assays are first assessed for general rationale, technical precision, and biological associations in a cross-sectional cohort. Those with the most favorable characteristics are then applied to placebo arm subjects of T1D intervention trials to assess their predictive correlation with beta cell function. We outline a go/no-go process for advancing candidate assays in a defined qualification pipeline that also allows for the discovery of novel predictive biomarker combinations. This strategy could be a model for other collaborative biomarker development efforts in and beyond T1D.
Analysis of Risk and Burden of Dysentery Associated with Floods from 2004 to 2010 in Nanning, China
Authors: Liu Zhidong , Ding Guoyong , Zhang Ying , Xu Xin , Liu Qiyong , Jiang Baofa
Published: September 2015

This study aimed to examine the association between floods and the morbidity of dysentery and to quantify the burden of dysentery due to floods in Nanning, China. A generalized additive mixed model was conducted to assess the relationship between monthly morbidity of dysentery and floods from 2004 to 2010. The years lived with disability (YLDs) of dysentery attributable to floods were then estimated based on the WHO framework of the burden of disease study for calculating the potential impact fraction. The relative risk (RR) of floods on the morbidity of dysentery was 1.44 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.18–1.75). The models suggest that a potential 1-day rise in flood duration may lead to 8% (RR = 1.08, 95% CI = 1.04–1.12) increase in the morbidity of dysentery. The average attributable YLD per 1,000 of dysentery caused by floods were 0.013 in males, 0.005 in females, and 0.009 in persons. Our study confirms that floods have significantly increased the risk and the burden of dysentery in the study area. Public health action should be taken to prevent and control the potential risk of dysentery after floods. Vulnerable groups such as males and children should be paid more attention.
Blood-Borne Candidatus Borrelia algerica in a Patient with Prolonged Fever in Oran, Algeria
Authors: Fotso Fotso Aurélien , Angelakis Emmanouil , Mouffok Nadjet , Drancourt Michel , Raoult Didier
Published: September 2015

To improve the knowledge base of Borrelia in north Africa, we tested 257 blood samples collected from febrile patients in Oran, Algeria, between January and December 2012 for Borrelia species using flagellin gene polymerase chain reaction sequencing. A sequence indicative of a new Borrelia sp. named Candidatus Borrelia algerica was detected in one blood sample. Further multispacer sequence typing indicated this Borrelia sp. had 97% similarity with Borrelia crocidurae, Borrelia duttonii, and Borrelia recurrentis. In silico comparison of Candidatus B. algerica spacer sequences with those of Borrelia hispanica and Borrelia garinii revealed 94% and 89% similarity, respectively. Candidatus B. algerica is a new relapsing fever Borrelia sp. detected in Oran. Further studies may help predict its epidemiological importance.
Optimizing Intradermal Administration of Cryopreserved Plasmodium falciparum Sporozoites in Controlled Human Malaria Infection
Authors: Lyke Kirsten E. , Laurens Matthew B. , Strauss Kathy , Adams Matthew , Billingsley Peter F. , James Eric , Manoj Anita , Chakravarty Sumana , Plowe Christopher V. , Li Ming Lin , Ruben Adam , Edelman Robert , Green Michael , Dube Tina J. , Sim B. Kim Lee , Hoffman Stephen L.
Published: September 2015

Controlled human malaria infection (CHMI) is a powerful tool to evaluate malaria vaccine and prophylactic drug efficacy. Until recently CHMI was only carried out by the bite of infected mosquitoes. A parenteral method of CHMI would standardize Plasmodium falciparum sporozoite (PfSPZ) administration, eliminate the need for expensive challenge facility infrastructure, and allow for use of many P. falciparum strains. Recently, intradermal (ID) injection of aseptic, purified, cryopreserved PfSPZ was shown to induce P. falciparum malaria; however, 100% infection rates were not achieved by ID injection. To optimize ID PfSPZ dosing so as to achieve 100% infection, 30 adults aged 18–45 years were randomized to one of six groups composed of five volunteers each. The parameters of dose (1 × 104 versus 5 × 104 PfSPZ total dose per volunteer), number of injections (two versus eight), and aliquot volume per ID injection (10 μL versus 50 μL) were studied. Three groups attained 100% infection: 1 × 104 PfSPZ in 50 μL/2 doses, 1 × 104 PfSPZ in 10 μL/2 doses, and 5 × 104 PfSPZ in 10 μL/8 doses. The group that received 5 × 104 PfSPZ total dose in eight 10 μL injections had a 100% infection rate and the shortest prepatent period (mean of 12.7 days), approaching the prepatent period for the current CHMI standard of five infected mosquitoes.
Point-of-Care Ultrasound Assessment of Tropical Infectious Diseases—A Review of Applications and Perspectives
Authors: Bélard Sabine , Tamarozzi Francesca , Bustinduy Amaya L. , Wallrauch Claudia , Grobusch Martin P. , Kuhn Walter , Brunetti Enrico , Joekes Elizabeth , Heller Tom
Published: September 2015

The development of good quality and affordable ultrasound machines has led to the establishment and implementation of numerous point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) protocols in various medical disciplines. POCUS for major infectious diseases endemic in tropical regions has received less attention, despite its likely even more pronounced benefit for populations with limited access to imaging infrastructure. Focused assessment with sonography for HIV-associated TB (FASH) and echinococcosis (FASE) are the only two POCUS protocols for tropical infectious diseases, which have been formally investigated and which have been implemented in routine patient care today. This review collates the available evidence for FASH and FASE, and discusses sonographic experiences reported for urinary and intestinal schistosomiasis, lymphatic filariasis, viral hemorrhagic fevers, amebic liver abscess, and visceral leishmaniasis. Potential POCUS protocols are suggested and technical as well as training aspects in the context of resource-limited settings are reviewed. Using the focused approach for tropical infectious diseases will make ultrasound diagnosis available to patients who would otherwise have very limited or no access to medical imaging.
Challenges in Obtaining Estimates of the Risk of Tuberculosis Infection During Overseas Deployment
Authors: Mancuso James D. , Geurts Mia
Published: September 2015

Estimates of the risk of tuberculosis (TB) infection resulting from overseas deployment among U.S. military service members have varied widely, and have been plagued by methodological problems. The purpose of this study was to estimate the incidence of TB infection in the U.S. military resulting from deployment. Three populations were examined: 1) a unit of 2,228 soldiers redeploying from Iraq in 2008, 2) a cohort of 1,978 soldiers followed up over 5 years after basic training at Fort Jackson in 2009, and 3) 6,062 participants in the 2011–2012 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). The risk of TB infection in the deployed population was low—0.6% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.1–2.3%)—and was similar to the non-deployed population. The prevalence of latent TB infection (LTBI) in the U.S. population was not significantly different among deployed and non-deployed veterans and those with no military service. The limitations of these retrospective studies highlight the challenge in obtaining valid estimates of risk using retrospective data and the need for a more definitive study. Similar to civilian long-term travelers, risks for TB infection during deployment are focal in nature, and testing should be targeted to only those at increased risk.
Design of Feedback Rock Crawl Controller with Engine Torque Optimization for Off-road Vehicle
Authors: Durai Rangaraj Ramanan , Thirupathi Ashok , Shetty Mohith Krishna , Mampilly Dilip Joy
Published: September 2015

In this paper Longitudinal Force Slip (LFS) controller will be designed for controlling the traction force in each wheel when Rock Crawl Scenario prevails for commercial vehicles working in Off-Road condition. During Rock Crawling the wheels can have more longitudinal slip than lateral slip. Slip is caused by relative movement of tires with the rock.

PID controller (Longitudinal Force Controller) will be designed in order to stabilize the traction force on individual wheels. Individual Lateral and Longitudinal force will be calculated for each wheel from Tire modeling. Optimal longitudinal force will be determined based on fuzzy model with the help of determined Mue.

The designed LFS controller which controls the individual traction force by applying active braking. Active braking on individual wheel will be realized with the hydraulic system associated with Vehicle Stability Control ECU (VSC - ECU). Optimal engine torque will be calculated based on driver pedal request. With the combination of optimal engine torque manipulation and Active braking, longitudinal slip can be controlled. The Electronic Differential Locking by LFS will additionally enhance the vehicle to come out of slip observed in wheels and hence the designed LFS Controller will be used to control the optimal traction force on wheels individually along with optimal engine torque.
Emergency Obstetric Hysterectomies at a Tertiary Referral Shri Vasantrao Naik Government Medical College and Hospital of Tribal of Yavatmal District (Maharashtra): Retrospective Critical Analysis (6 Years Study)
Authors: Rathod Archana D , Pajai Sandhya P
Published: September 2015

Objective

To evaluate the demographic profile, high-risk factors, fetomaternal outcome, causes and incidence of emergency peripartum hysterectomies at tertiary referral center Government Medical College and Hospital at Yavatmal.

Study design

Retrospective analysis.

Methodology

Review of 14 case records of patient who undergone emergency peripartum hysterectomies during the year January 2007 to December 2012.

Results

During the study period, there were 39,612 deliveries, out of which 14 patients had undergone emergency peripartum hysterectomy (EPH), having an incidence of 0.35/1000 births. There was 1 (7.14%) maternal death and 5 (35.71%) perinatal deaths. The commonest indications noted were atonic PPH 7 (50%), morbidly adherent placenta 5 (35.71%) and rupture uterus 2 (14.28%).

Five (35.71%) of these patients had not received antenatal care prior to their hospitalization.

Lack of antenatal care and health education indeed a preventable factor that needs to be addressed to reduce maternal and fetal mortality and morbidity.

Identification of high-risk patients, institutional deliveries by expert of risk group and early referral from peripheral health infrastructures are utmost importance in avoiding EPH and reduce maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality.

Emergency obstetric hysterectomy still remains as life saving procedure which every obstetrician must be familiar with it.

How to cite this article

Rathod AD, Pajai SP. Emergency Obstetric Hysterectomies at a Tertiary Referral Shri Vasantrao Naik Government Medical College and Hospital of Tribal of Yavatmal District (Maharashtra): Retrospective Critical Analysis (6 Years Study). J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2015;7(2): 55-60.
Osteopontin as a Prognostic Indicator in Grading of Ovarian Epithelial Tumors
Authors: Pilli Ganga S , Patil Prakash V , Karadesai SG
Published: September 2015

Aim

To determine if osteopontin expression by immunohistochemistry (IHC) can correlate with histological type and grade of epithelial ovarian cancer.

Materials and methods

The present work has been carried out at department of pathology, of a reputed medical college in Belgaum district of Karnataka state. The study is carried out for a period of 18 months for data collection, evaluation of the marker and data analysis. All consecutive specimens of ovarian tumors are included in the study. The study included 55 epithelial ovarian tumors and these are analyzed histopathologically. In all the cases, osteopontin expression has been studied with IHC on paraffin slides.

Results

This study included 41 (74.5%) benign tumors and 14 (25.5%) malignant tumors. High grade (grade III) was common in serous carcinomas than in other histological types. Fisher's exact test p-value < 0.001 was significant for expression of osteopontin and all the malignant ovarian epithelial tumors expressed osteopontin by IHC procedure on paraffin tissue sections. All high-grade epithelial ovarian tumors showed increased expression of osteopontin of +++ and low-grade tumors expressed +/++osteopontin.

Conclusion

The osteopontin expression was seen in all the malignant epithelial ovarian cancers and the osteopontin expression was significantly higher in high-grade epithelial ovarian cancers than low-grade epithelial ovarian cancers.

How to cite this article

Pilli GS, Patil PV, Karadesai SG. Osteopontin as a Prognostic Indicator in Grading of Ovarian Epithelial Tumors. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2015;7(2): 61-63.
Novel Possibilities for the Diagnosis of Fetal Distress in Pre-eclamptic Women
Authors: Lakhno Igor Victorovich
Published: September 2015

Objective

Fetal deterioration has been known as a result of acute or chronic disturbances in the system of ‘motherplacenta- fetus’. Pre-eclampsia (PE) is a maternal gestational disease caused by abnormal placentation that could provoke fetal distress.

Aim

The aim of the investigation was to survey the accuracy of fetal distress diagnostics in case of traditional cardiotocography (CTG) waveform evaluation and electrocardiography (ECG) parameters analysis obtained from maternal abdominal signal before and during labor in pre-eclamptic patients.

Materials and methods

One hundred and thirty-nine pregnant ladies at 32 to 40 weeks of gestation were enrolled in the study. There were 30 women with physiological pregnancy and normal fetal condition according to hemodynamic Doppler values and fetal ECG parameters in group I. In group II, 64 patients with mild and moderate PE were involved whom were performed fetal ECG noninvasive monitoring and hemodynamic Doppler. In group III, 45 patients with severe PE were monitored with fetal noninvasive ECG and hemodynamic Doppler.

Results

It was determined that fetal autonomic tone was suppressed with the relative increase of low frequency branch in pre-eclamptic patients. The increased value of the amplitude of mode and stress index was associated with abnormal myocardial adrenergic stimulation. It has induced pQ and QT shortening, increased T/QRS ratio. Fetal cardiac response was determined as gradual reduce of autonomic regulation.

The most considerable negative correlation was determined in pair Apgar score 1 vs T/QRS (R = – 0.48; p < 0.05). The QT interval duration has revealed positive correlation with Apgar score 1 (R = 0.44; p < 0.05). Additional to the conventional CTG analysis evaluation of noninvasive fetal ECG parameters has contributed to better diagnostic of distress.

Conclusion

Fetal noninvasive ECG has showed sensitivity 100.0% and specificity 93.8% and, therefore, was more accurate and convenient method for fetal monitoring than conventional CTG.

How to cite this article

Lakhno IV. Novel Possibilities for the Diagnosis of Fetal Distress in Pre-eclamptic Women. Int J Infertil Fetal Med 2015;6(2):62-66.
The Detection of BANA Hydrolysis Activity in Abutment Teeth in Patients with Removable Partial Denture
Authors: Kalaria Jigar P , Patel Birood G , Agrawal Charu
Published: September 2015

Purpose

The aim of this study was to detect the presence of N-benzyl-Dl-arginase-2-naphthalamide (BANA) micro- organisms in chronic periodontitis of abutment teeth in subjects wearing removable partial dentures (RPDs) by measuring the red complex using BANA-ZymeTM test.

Materials and methods

Twenty-five subjects (mean age: 59.3 years) with Kennedy class II partially edentulous arch participated in this study. The microbiological record of red complex was done by BANA-Zyme kit and clinical parameters, such as plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI) and probing depth were recorded at abutment teeth in contact with the direct retainer of unilaterally designed RPDs and the corresponding nonabutment teeth on the opposite side.

Results

Mean scores of BANA for the red complex, PI and GI of the abutment teeth were significantly greater than those of the nonabutment teeth (p < 0.01). No significant mean difference in pocket depth (PD) was found between the abutment and nonabutment teeth. Logistic regression analysis revealed that abutment teeth, high scores of PI and a maintenance interval longer than 6 months were significant predictors for positive red complex scores (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

These results suggest that the microbiological risk for periodontitis of abutment teeth is greater than that for nonabutment teeth in RPD wearers.

How to cite this article

Kalaria JP, Patel BG, Patel V, Agrawal C. The Detection of BANA Hydrolysis Activity in Abutment Teeth in Patients with Removable Partial Denture. Int J Prosthodont Restor Dent 2015;5(2):31-37
A Spectrophotometric Analysis of Color Changes in Metal Ceramic Restorations by Varying Porcelain Thickness and Repeated Firings: An in vitro Study
Authors: Selvaraj Sunantha , Raju Ramesh , Zankari Vidhya , Vijayakumar Manonmani
Published: September 2015

The dental profession has long been concerned with the problem of matching the appearance of porcelain restorations with a patient's natural dentition. The esthetics of any restoration depends on outline form, surface form, translucency and color.

Purpose

The objective of this study is to find out the adequate porcelain thickness required for metal ceramic restorations to match the color of the shade guide and effect of repeated firing on quality and physical characteristics of dental ceramics.

Methods

Preparation of samples done first by preparing alloy substructure. A total of 15 samples of uniform thickness 0.5 mm was prepared using Ni-Cr alloy. Fusion of porcelain to alloy substructure done. Fifteen samples, five 0.5 mm thickness samples, five 1 mm samples and five 1.5 mm porcelain thickness samples were prepared. Color evaluation done by spectrophotometer.

Statistic analysis

Statistic analysis methods employed in the present study were ANOVA-one way, Scheffe's post hoc test and paired samples ‘t’ test.

Conclusion

The thickness of porcelain significantly affects the color of a given porcelain sample. Increasing the thickness gives better results. On repeated firings two and 10 firing did not affect the color stability.

How to cite this article

Raju R, Selvaraj S, Zankari V, Vijayakumar M. A Spectrophotometric Analysis of Color Changes in Metal Ceramic Restorations by Varying Porcelain Thickness and Repeated Firings: An in vitro Study. Int J Prosthodont Restor Dent 2015;5(2):38-43
A Clinical Pathway for Fabrication of Immediate Complete Denture
Authors: Tuncel Ilkin , Celik Gozde
Published: September 2015

Immediate complete dentures have a significant role when patient's all teeth should be extracted. The dentures are fabricated before all the remaining teeth were extracted, and immediately delivered to the patient after the extraction procedure. This article presents a practical fabrication method for complete immediate denture with the use of patient's existing fixed partial denture (FPD). Advantages and disadvantages of this treatment method were emphasized.

How to cite this article

Tuncel I, Celik G. A Clinical Pathway for Fabrication of Immediate Complete Denture. Int J Prosthodont Restor Dent 2015;5(2):60-62
Stable carbon isotope ratios of ambient secondary organic aerosols in Toronto
Authors: Saccon M. , Kornilova A. , Huang L. , Moukhtar S. , Rudolph J.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. A method to quantify concentrations and stable carbon isotope ratios of secondary organic aerosols has been applied to study atmospheric nitrophenols in Toronto, Canada. The sampling of five nitrophenols, all with substantial secondary formation from the photooxidation of aromatic volatile organic compounds (VOCs), was conducted in the gas phase and particulate matter (PM) together and in PM alone. Their concentrations in the atmosphere are in the low ng m−3 range and, consequently, a large volume of air (> 1000 m3) is needed to analyze samples for stable carbon isotope ratios, resulting in sampling periods of typically 24 h. While this extended sampling period increases the representativeness of average values, it at the same time reduces possibilities to identify meteorological conditions or atmospheric pollution levels determining nitrophenol concentrations and isotope ratios. Average measured carbon isotope ratios of the different nitrophenols are between −34 and −33 ‰, which is well within the range predicted by mass balance. However, the observed carbon isotope ratios cover a range of nearly 9 ‰ and approximately 20 % of the isotope ratios of the products have isotope ratios lower than predicted from the kinetic isotope effect of the first step of the reaction mechanism and the isotope ratio of the precursor. This can be explained by isotope fractionation during reaction steps following the initial reaction of the precursor VOCs with the OH radical. Limited evidence for local production of nitrophenols is observed since sampling was done in the Toronto area, an urban center with significant anthropogenic emission sources. Strong evidence for significant local formation of nitrophenols is only found for samples collected in summer. On average, the difference in carbon isotope ratios between nitrophenols in the particle phase and in the gas phase is insignificant, but for a limited number of observations in summer, a substantial difference is observed. This indicates that at high OH radical concentrations, photochemical formation or removal of nitrophenols can be faster than exchange between the two phases. The dependence between the concentrations and isotope ratios of the nitrophenols and meteorological conditions as well as pollution levels (NO2, O3, SO2 and CO) demonstrate that the influence of precursor concentrations on nitrophenol concentrations is far more important than the extent of photochemical processing. While it cannot be excluded that primary emissions contribute to the observed levels of nitrophenols, overall the available evidence demonstrates that secondary formation is the dominant source for atmospheric nitrophenols in Toronto.
Shortwave direct radiative effects of above cloud aerosols over global oceans derived from eight years of CALIOP and MODIS observations
Authors: Zhang Z. , Meyer K. , Yu H. , Platnick S. , Colarco P. , Liu Z. , Oreopoulos L.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. In this paper, we studied the frequency of occurrence and shortwave direct radiative effects (DRE) of above-cloud aerosols (ACAs) over global oceans using eight years of collocated CALIOP and MODIS observations. Similar to previous work, we found high ACA occurrence in four regions: Southeast (SE) Atlantic region where ACAs are mostly light-absorbing aerosols, i.e., smoke and polluted dust according to CALIOP classification, originating from biomass burning over African Savanna; Tropical Northeast Atlantic and Arabian Sea where ACAs are predominantly windblown dust from the Sahara and Arabian desert, respectively; and Northwest Pacific where ACAs are mostly transported smoke and polluted dusts from Asian. From radiative transfer simulations based on CALIOP-MODIS observations and a set of the preselected aerosol optical models, we found the DREs of ACAs at the top of atmosphere (TOA) to be positive (i.e., warming) in the SE Atlantic and NW Pacific regions, but negative (i.e., cooling) in TNE Atlantic and Arabian Sea. The cancellation of positive and negative regional DREs results in a global ocean annual mean diurnally averaged cloudy-sky DRE of 0.015 W m−2 (range of −0.03 to 0.06 W m−2) at TOA. The DREs at surface and within atmosphere are −0.15 W m−2 (range of −0.09 to −0.21 W m−2), and 0.17 W m−2 (range of 0.11 to 0.24 W m−2), respectively. The regional and seasonal mean DREs are much stronger. For example, in the SE Atlantic region the JJA (July ~ August) seasonal mean cloudy-sky DRE is about 0.7 W m−2 (range of 0.2 to 1.2 W m−2) at TOA. The uncertainty in our DRE computations is mainly cause by the uncertainties in the aerosol optical properties, in particular aerosol absorption, and uncertainties in the CALIOP operational aerosol optical thickness retrieval. In situ and remotely sensed measurements of ACA from future field campaigns and satellite missions, and improved lidar retrieval algorithm, in particular vertical feature masking, would help reduce the uncertainty.
Evaluation of multifrequency range-imaging technique implemented on the Chung–Li VHF atmospheric radar
Authors: Chen J.-S. , Tsai S.-C. , Su C.-L. , Chu Y.-H.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. Multifrequency range imaging technique (RIM) has been implemented on the Chung–Li VHF-array radar since 2008 after its renovation. This study made a more complete examination and evaluation of the RIM technique to facilitate the performance of the radar for atmospheric studies. Various experiments of RIM with different radar parameters such as pulse length, pulse shape, receiver bandwidth, transmitter frequency set, and so on, were conducted. The radar data employed for the study were collected from 2008 to 2013. It has been shown that two factors, the range/time delay of the signal traveling in the media and the standard deviation of Gaussian-shaped range-weighting function, play crucial roles in ameliorating the RIM-produced brightness (or power distribution); the two factors are associated with some radar parameters. In addition to radar parameters, long-term RIM data show that the aging of cable lines or key components of the radar system may result in an increase of the range/time delay of signal. It is also found that the range/time delay was visibly different for the echoes from the atmosphere with and without the presence of significant precipitation. A procedure of point-by-point correction of range/time delay was thus conducted to minimize the bogus brightness discontinuity at range gate boundaries. With the RIM technique, the Chung–Li VHF radar demonstrates its first successful observation of double-layer structures as well as their temporal and spatial variations with time.
Responses of soil microbial communities and enzyme activities to nitrogen and phosphorus additions in Chinese fir plantations of subtropical China
Authors: Dong W. Y. , Zhang X. Y. , Liu X. Y. , Fu X. L. , Chen F. S. , Wang H. M. , Sun X. M. , Wen X. F.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. Nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) additions to forest ecosystems are known to influence various above-ground properties, such as plant productivity and composition, and below-ground properties, such as soil nutrient cycling. However, our understanding of how soil microbial communities and their functions respond to nutrient additions in subtropical plantations is still not complete. In this study, we added N and P to Chinese fir plantations in subtropical China to examine how nutrient additions influenced soil microbial community composition and enzyme activities. The results showed that most soil microbial properties were responsive to N and/or P additions, but responses often varied depending on the nutrient added and the quantity added. For instance, there were more than 30 % greater increases in the activities of β-glucosidase (βG) and N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase (NAG) in the treatments that received nutrient additions compared to the control plot, whereas acid phosphatase (aP) activity was always higher (57 and 71 %, respectively) in the P treatment. N and P additions greatly enhanced the phospholipid fatty acids (PLFAs) abundance especially in the N2P (100 kg ha−1 yr−1 of N +50 kg ha−1 yr−1 of P) treatment; the bacterial PLFAs (bacPLFAs), fungal PLFAs (funPLFAs) and actinomycic PLFAs (actPLFAs) were about 2.5, 3 and 4 times higher, respectively, than in the CK (control). Soil enzyme activities were noticeably higher in November than in July, mainly due to seasonal differences in soil moisture content (SMC). βG or NAG activities were significantly and positively correlated with microbial PLFAs. These findings indicate that βG and NAG would be useful tools for assessing the biogeochemical transformation and metabolic activity of soil microbes. We recommend combined additions of N and P fertilizer to promote soil fertility and microbial activity in this kind of plantation.
A moist aquaplanet variant of the Held–Suarez test for atmospheric model dynamical cores
Authors: Thatcher D. R. , Jablonowski C.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. A moist idealized test case (MITC) for atmospheric model dynamical cores is presented. The MITC is based on the Held–Suarez (HS) test that was developed for dry simulations on a flat Earth and replaces the full physical parameterization package with a Newtonian temperature relaxation and Rayleigh damping of the low-level winds. This new variant of the HS test includes moisture and thereby sheds light on the non-linear dynamics-physics moisture feedbacks without the complexity of full physics parameterization packages. In particular, it adds simplified moist processes to the HS forcing to model large-scale condensation, boundary layer mixing, and the exchange of latent and sensible heat between the atmospheric surface and an ocean-covered planet. Using a variety of dynamical cores of NCAR's Community Atmosphere Model (CAM), this paper demonstrates that the inclusion of the moist idealized physics package leads to climatic states that closely resemble aquaplanet simulations with complex physical parameterizations. This establishes that the MITC approach generates reasonable atmospheric circulations and can be used for a broad range of scientific investigations. This paper provides examples of two application areas. First, the test case reveals the characteristics of the physics-dynamics coupling technique and reproduces coupling issues seen in full-physics simulations. In particular, it is shown that sudden adjustments of the prognostic fields due to moist physics tendencies can trigger undesirable large-scale gravity waves, which can be remedied by a more gradual application of the physical forcing. Second, the moist idealized test case can be used to intercompare dynamical cores. These examples demonstrate the versatility of the MITC approach and suggestions are made for further application areas. The new moist variant of the HS test can be considered a test case of intermediate complexity.
High-resolution modelling of interactions between soil moisture and convective development in a mountain enclosed Tibetan Basin
Authors: Gerken T. , Babel W. , Herzog M. , Fuchs K. , Sun F. , Ma Y. , Foken T. , Graf H.-F.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. The Tibetan Plateau plays a significant role in atmospheric circulation and the Asian monsoon system. Turbulent surface fluxes and the evolution of boundary-layer clouds to deep and moist convection provide a feedback system that modifies the plateau's surface energy balance on scales that are currently unresolved in mesoscale models. This work analyses the land surface's role and specifically the influence of soil moisture on the triggering of convection at a cross section of the Nam Co Lake basin, 150 km north of Lhasa using a cloud-resolving atmospheric model with a fully coupled surface. The modelled turbulent fluxes and development of convection compare reasonably well with the observed weather. The simulations span Bowen ratios of 0.5 to 2.5. It is found that convective development is the strongest at intermediate soil moisture. Dry cases with soils close to the permanent wilting point are moisture limited in convective development, while convection in wet soil moisture cases is limited by cloud cover reducing incoming solar radiation and sensible heat fluxes, which has a strong impact on the surface energy balance. This study also shows that local development of convection is an important mechanism for the upward transport of water vapour, which originates from the lake basin that can then be transported to dryer regions of the plateau. Both processes demonstrate the importance of soil moisture and surface–atmosphere interactions on the energy and hydrological cycles of the Tibetan Plateau.
Investigating effects of different evapotranspiration (ET) schemes on soil water dynamics and ET partitioning: a large lysimeter case of summer maize in a semi-arid environment northwest of China
Authors: Yu L. , Zeng Y. , Su Z. , Cai H. , Zheng Z.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. Different evapotranspiration (ET) schemes can affect significantly the performance of land surface models in capturing the soil water dynamics and ET partitioning over various land cover and climates, the accurate understanding of which is crucial to determine the effective irrigation. In this study, a land model considering the coupled transfer of water, vapor and heat in the soil, with two alternative ET schemes, was used to investigate how the coupled mechanism can affect the soil water dynamics in a crop field and how the ET partitioning was influenced. There are two different evapotranspiration (ET) schemes, one is based on reference crop evapotranspiration (ET0) and use LAI to partition into soil evaporation and transpiration, denoted as the ETind scheme; the other is one-step calculation of actual soil evaporation and potential transpiration by incorporating canopy minimum resistance and actual soil resistance into Penman–Monteith model, denoted as the ETdir scheme. Results indicated that the coupled model with the two different ET schemes differed in simulating soil water content and crop evapotranspiration components while agreed well for the simulation of soil temperature. Considering the aerodynamic and surface resistance terms made the ETdir scheme better in simulating soil evaporation especially after irrigations. Furthermore, the results of different crop growth scenarios indicated that the uncertainty in LAI played an important role in estimating the relative transpiration and evaporation fraction. The soil drying seemed to intensify the disturbance of maximum rooting depth and root growth rate in calculating ET components. The former was more important at the late growing season while the latter dominated at the early growing season.
Effectiveness and efficiency of slot-check dam system on debris flow control
Authors: Zou Y. H. , Chen X. Q.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. Slot-check dam system is commonly used to control sediment transport associated with debris flows and mitigate debris flow hazards. This paper aims to estimate the performance of the slot-check dam system in the field and set up a verification to evaluate the efficiency of a slot-check dam system and each subsystem in debris flow sediment control. Field survey on a group of a series of slot-check dams at Shengou Basin in Yunnan, China reveals that the conserving sediment volume of each dam is related to its relative location in the group, gradually decreasing from upstream to downstream. The cumulative sediment volume within a subsystem of slot-check dams closely related to the characteristics of the catchment controlled by the subsystem. It increases with the controlled catchment area of the most downstream dam in subsystem and the distance from the dam to the upstream most. Evaluation models for the conserving efficiency of a slot-check dam system on debris flow control in a river basin and each subsystem within the group associate to the controlled catchment characteristics have been proposed. The layout principle of a slot-check dam system in a river basin has been developed based on the conserving efficiency of a subsystem of slot-check dams which would allow the slot-check dam system to be designed in a more scientific way.
Impact of vertical and horizontal advection on nutrient distribution in the South East Pacific
Authors: Barceló-Llull B. , Mason E. , Pascual A.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. An innovative approach is used to analyse the impact of vertical velocities associated with quasi-geostrophic (QG) dynamics on the distribution of a passive nutrient tracer (nitrate) in the South East Pacific. Twelve years of vertical and horizontal currents are derived from an observation-based estimate of the ocean state. Horizontal velocities are obtained through application of thermal wind balance to weekly temperature and salinity fields. Vertical velocities are estimated by integration of the QG Omega equation. Seasonal variability of the synthetic vertical velocity and kinetic energy associated with the horizontal currents are coincident, with peaks in austral summer (November–December) in accord with published observations. Two ensembles of Lagrangian particle tracking experiments that differ according to vertical forcing (w = wQG vs. w = 0) enable a quantitative analysis of the impact of the vertical velocity. From identical initial distributions of nitrate-tagged particles, the Lagrangian results show that the impact of vertical advection on nutrient distribution is 30 % of the contribution of horizontal advection. Despite being weaker by a factor of up to 10−4 than the horizontal currents, vertical velocity is demonstrated to make an important contribution to nutrient distributions in the region of study.
Radiative transfer model for contaminated slabs: experimental validations
Authors: Andrieu F. , Schmidt F. , Schmitt B. , Douté S. , Brissaud O.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. This article presents a set of spectro-goniometric measurements of different water ice samples and the comparison with an approximated radiative transfer model. The experiments were done using the spectro-radiogoniometer described in Brissaud et al. (2004). The radiative transfer model assumes an isotropization of the flux after the second interface and is fully described in Andrieu et al. (2015). Two kinds of experiments were conducted. First, the specular spot was closely investigated, at high angular resolution, at the wavelength of 1.5 μm, where ice behaves as a very absorbing media. Second, the bidirectional reflectance was sampled at various geometries, including low phase angles on 61 wavelengths ranging from 0.8 to 2.0 μm. In order to validate the model, we made qualitative tests to demonstrate the relative isotropization of the flux. We also conducted quantitative assessments by using a Bayesian inversion method in order to estimate the parameters (e.g., sample thickness, surface roughness) from the radiative measurements only. A simple comparison between the retrieved parameters and the direct independent measurements allowed us to validate the model. We developed an innovative Bayesian inversion approach to quantitatively estimate the uncertainties in the parameters avoiding the usual slow Monte Carlo approach. First we built lookup tables, and then we searched the best fits and calculated a posteriori density probability functions. The results show that the model is able to reproduce the geometrical energy distribution in the specular spot, as well as the spectral behavior of water ice slabs. In addition, the different parameters of the model are compatible with independent measurements.
Motivational Interviewing and Social Justice
Authors: Miller William R.
Published: September 2015

This address explores the relationship between motivational interviewing (MI) and six broad humane values: compassion, respect, fairness, human potential, prizing of differences, and collaboration.  These values are implicit in the spirit and practice of MI, and have implications far beyond professional practice.
Las familias "Baeomycetaceae" e I"Icmadophilaceae" en la Península Ibérica
Authors: Burgaz Ana Rosa
Published: September 2015

Se aportan datos morfológicos, químicos y de distribución de seis especies de las familias Baeomycetaceae (Baeomyces) e Icmadophilaceae (Dibaeis, Icmadophila, Thamnolia) presentes en la Península Ibérica. Se publican numerosas nuevas citas de Baeomyces rufus y de Dibaeis baeomyces, que constituyen las especies más frecuentes y abundantes en la península.
"Canna tandilensis" Ciciarelli (Cannaceae-Zingiberales), una especie nueva de los humedales de Buenos Aires y Uruguay
Authors: Ciciarelli Mª de las Mercedes
Published: September 2015

Canna tandilensis es el nombre que se propone para designar una especie nueva para la ciencia que crece en colonias silvestres densas, terrestres, en roquedales, siempre expuesta a la radiación solar. Sus individuos de tamaño pequeño a mediano producen inflorescencias reducidas y paucifloras. Las flores son grandes, con estaminodios angostos reflejos de color anaranjado brillante. Los labelos y estaminodios son conspicuos y presentan guías de néctar en forma de líneas gruesas amarillas sobre fondo anaranjado. El epíteto específico hace referencia a la ciudad de Tandil en el sur de la Provincia de Buenos Aires de donde procede el holotipo. Se presenta una descripción detallada de la especie y un estudio de caracteres vegetativos y florales, que se compararon con los de otras dos especies C. lineata y C. glauca. De acuerdo a estas nuevas evidencias se sugiere la presencia de dos grupos de especies afines en el género. El número de especies relevadas hasta el momento en Argentina es de 16.