bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Older Primary Care Patients’ Attitudes and Willingness to Screen for Dementia
Authors: Fowler Nicole R. , Perkins Anthony J. , Turchan Hilary A. , Frame Amie , Monahan Patrick , Gao Sujuan , Boustani Malaz A.
Published: April 2015

Objective. To understand older primary care patients’ perceptions of the risks and benefits of dementia screening and to measure the association between attitudes and screening behaviors.Methods. Eligible patients completed the Perceptions Regarding Investigational Screening for Memory in Primary Care (PRISM-PC) questionnaire and then were asked to undergo dementia screening by a telephone screening instrument.Results. Higher scores on the PRISM-PC questionnaire items that measure attitudes about benefits of screening were associated with decreased odds of refusing screening. Participants who refused screening had significantly lower PRISM-PC questionnaire scores on the items that measure perceived benefits compared to those who agreed to screening. Participants who refused screening were less likely to agree on screening for other conditions, such as depression and cancer. Participants who know someone with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) were less likely to refuse screening.Discussion. Patients’ attitudes about the benefits of dementia screening are associated with their acceptance of dementia screening.
Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor Promoter Polymorphisms (−794 CATT5–8and −173 G>C): Relationship with mRNA Expression and Soluble MIF Levels in Young Obese Subjects
Authors: Matia-García Inés , Salgado-Goytia Lorenzo , Muñoz-Valle José F. , García-Arellano Samuel , Hernández-Bello Jorge , Salgado-Bernabé Aralia B. , Parra-Rojas Isela
Published: April 2015

We analyzed the relationship of −794CATT5–8and −173 G>CMIFpolymorphisms with mRNA and soluble MIF in young obese subjects. A total of 250 young subjects, 150 normal-weight and 100 obese subjects, were recruited in the study. Genotyping of −794CATT5–8and −173 G>CMIFpolymorphisms was performed by PCR and PCR-RFLP, respectively. MIF mRNA expression was determined by real-time PCR and serum MIF levels were measured using an ELISA kit. For bothMIFpromoter polymorphisms, no significant differences in the genotype and allele frequencies between groups were observed. MIF mRNA expression was slightly higher in obese subjects than in normal-weight subjects (1.38-fold), while soluble MIF levels did not show differences between groups. In addition, we found an increase in MIF mRNA expression in carriers of the 6,6 and C/C genotypes and the 6G haplotype of the −794CATT5–8and −173 G>CMIFpolymorphisms, although it was not significant. In conclusion, this study found no relationship between obesity andMIFgene promoter polymorphisms with MIF mRNA expression in young obese subjects.
KPCA-ESN Soft-Sensor Model of Polymerization Process Optimized by Biogeography-Based Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Cui Wen-hua , Wang Jie-sheng , Li Shu-xia
Published: April 2015

For solving the problem that the conversion rate of vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) is hard for real-time online measurement in the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) polymerization production process, a soft-sensor modeling method based on echo state network (ESN) is put forward. By analyzing PVC polymerization process ten secondary variables are selected as input variables of the soft-sensor model, and the kernel principal component analysis (KPCA) method is carried out on the data preprocessing of input variables, which reduces the dimensions of the high-dimensional data. Thek-means clustering method is used to divide data samples into several clusters as inputs of each submodel. Then for each submodel the biogeography-based optimization algorithm (BBOA) is used to optimize the structure parameters of the ESN to realize the nonlinear mapping between input and output variables of the soft-sensor model. Finally, the weighted summation of outputs of each submodel is selected as the final output. The simulation results show that the proposed soft-sensor model can significantly improve the prediction precision of conversion rate and conversion velocity in the process of PVC polymerization and can satisfy the real-time control requirement of the PVC polymerization process.
Nonlinear Finite Element Modelling of Railway Turnout System considering Bearer/Sleeper-Ballast Interaction
Authors: Sae Siew James , Mirza Olivia , Kaewunruen Sakdirat
Published: April 2015

Rail turnouts are built to enable flexibility in the rail network as they allow for vehicles to switch between various tracks, therefore maximizing the utilisation of existing rail infrastructure. In general, railway turnouts are a safety-critical and expensive feature to a rail system as they suffer aggressive operational loads, in comparison to a plain rail track, and thus require frequent monitoring and maintenance. In practice, great consideration is given to the dynamic interaction between the turnouts components as a failed component may have adverse effects on the performance of neighbouring components. This paper presents a nonlinear 3D finite element (FE) model, taking into account the nonlinearities of materials, in order to evaluate the interaction and behaviour of turnout components. Using ABAQUS, the finite element model was developed to simulate standard concrete bearers with 60 kg/m rail and with a tangential turnout radius of 250 m. The turnout structure is supported by a ballast layer, which is represented by a nonlinearly deformable tensionless solid. The numerical studies firstly demonstrate the importance of load transfer mechanisms in the failure modes of the turnout components. The outcome will lead to a better design and maintenance of railway turnouts, improving public safety and operational reliability.
Palladium‐Gold Nanoalloy Surface Modified LiMn2O4 Cathode forEnhanced Li‐Ion Battery
Authors: Ross Natasha , Nzaba Myra , Ntuthuko Wonderboy , Ikpo Chinwe , Baker Priscilla , Iwuoha Emmanuel
Published: April 2015

Au with Pd nanoparticles were synthesized and coated onto the spinel LiMn2O4 via a coprecipitation calcination method with the objective to improve the microstructure, conductivity, and electrochemical activities of pristine LiMn2O4. The novel Li[PdAu]xMn2−xO4 composite cathode had high phase purity, well crystallized particles, and more regular morphological structures with narrow size distributions. At enlarged cycling potential ranges the Li[PdAu]xMn2−xO4 sample delivered 90 mAh g−1 discharge capacity compared to LiMn2O4 (45 mAh g−1). It was concluded that even a small amount of the Pd and Au enhanced both the lithium diffusivity and electrochemical conductivity of the host sample due to the beneficial properties of their synergy.
Hand Gesture Recognition Using Modified 1$ and Background Subtraction Algorithms
Authors: Khaled Hazem , Sayed Samir G. , Saad El Sayed M. , Ali Hossam
Published: April 2015

Computers and computerized machines have tremendously penetrated all aspects of our lives. This raises the importance of Human-Computer Interface (HCI). The common HCI techniques still rely on simple devices such as keyboard, mice, and joysticks, which are not enough to convoy the latest technology. Hand gesture has become one of the most important attractive alternatives to existing traditional HCI techniques. This paper proposes a new hand gesture detection system for Human-Computer Interaction using real-time video streaming. This is achieved by removing the background using average background algorithm and the 1$ algorithm for hand’s template matching. Then every hand gesture is translated to commands that can be used to control robot movements. The simulation results show that the proposed algorithm can achieve high detection rate and small recognition time under different light changes, scales, rotation, and background.
Development of an Evaluating Method for Carbon Emissions of Manufacturing Process Plans
Authors: Wang Yanhong , Zhang Hua , Zhang Zhiqing , Wang Jing
Published: April 2015

Carbon intensity reduction and energy utilization enhancement in manufacturing industry are becoming a timely topic. In a manufacturing system, the process planning is the combination of all production factors which influences the entail carbon emissions during manufacturing. In order to meet the current low carbon manufacturing requirements, a carbon emission evaluation method for the manufacturing process planning is highly desirable to be developed. This work presents a method to evaluate the carbon emissions of a process plan by aggregating the unit process to form a combined model for evaluating carbon emissions. The evaluating results can be used to decrease the resource and energy consumption and pinpoint detailed breakdown of the influences between manufacturing process plan and carbon emissions. Finally, the carbon emission analysis method is applied to a process plan of an axis to examine its feasibility and validity.
Deteriorating Inventory Model for Chilled Food
Authors: Yang Ming-Feng , Tseng Wei-Chung
Published: April 2015

With many aspects that affect inventory policy, product perishability is a critical aspect of inventory policy. Most goods will deteriorate during storage and their original value will decline or be lost. Therefore, deterioration should be taken into account in inventory practice. Chilled food products are very common consumer goods that are, in fact, perishable. If the chilled food quality declines over time customers are less likely to buy it. The value the chilled food retains is, however, closely dependent on its quality. From the vendor’s point of view, quantifying quality and remaining value should be a critical business issue. In consequence, we combined the traditional deterioration model and quality prediction model to develop a new deteriorating inventory model for chilled food products. This new model quantifies food quality and remaining value. The model we propose uses real deterioration rate data, and we regard deterioration rate as temperature-dependent. We provide a numerical example to illustrate the solution. Our model demonstrates that high storage temperatures reduce profits and force shorter order cycles.
Management of Mesh Complications after SUI and POP Repair: Review and Analysis of the Current Literature
Authors: Barski D. , Deng D. Y.
Published: April 2015

Purpose.To evaluate the surgical treatment concepts for the complications related to the implantation of mesh material for urogynecological indications.Materials and Methods.A review of the current literature on PubMed was performed.Results.Only retrospective studies were detected. The rate of mesh-related complications is about 15–25% and mesh erosion is up to 10% for POP and SUI repair. Mesh explantation is necessary in about 1-2% of patients due to complications. The initial approach appears to be an early surgical treatment with partial or complete mesh resection. Vaginal and endoscopic access for mesh resection is favored. Prior to recurrent surgeries, a careful examination and planning for the operation strategy are crucial.Conclusions.The data on the management of mesh complication is scarce. Revisions should be performed by an experienced surgeon and a proper follow-up with prospective documentation is essential for a good outcome.
Epigenetic Control of Interferon-Gamma Expression in CD8 T Cells
Authors: de Araújo-Souza Patrícia S. , Hanschke Steffi C. H. , Viola João P. B.
Published: April 2015

Interferon- (IFN-)γis an essential cytokine for immunity against intracellular pathogens and cancer. IFN-γexpression by CD4 T lymphocytes is observed only after T helper (Th) 1 differentiation and there are several studies about the molecular mechanisms that control Ifng expression in these cells. However, naïve CD8 T lymphocytes do not produce large amounts of IFN-γ, but after TCR stimulation there is a progressive acquisition of IFN-γexpression during differentiation into cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) and memory cells, which are capable of producing high levels of this cytokine. Differential gene expression can be regulated from the selective action of transcriptional factors and also from epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA CpG methylation or posttranslational histone modifications. Recently it has been recognized that epigenetic modification is an integral part of CD8 lymphocyte differentiation. This review will focus on the chromatin status of Ifng promoter in CD8 T cells and possible influences of epigenetic modifications in Ifng gene and conserved noncoding sequences (CNSs) in regulation of IFN-γproduction by CD8 T lymphocytes.
A Reversible Steganography Scheme of Secret Image Sharing Based on Cellular Automata and Least Significant Bits Construction
Authors: Hu Wei-Tong , Li Ming-Chu , Guo Cheng , Yuan Li-Feng
Published: April 2015

Secret image sharing schemes have been extensively studied by far. However, there are just a few schemes that can restore both the secret image and the cover image losslessly. These schemes have one or more defects in the following aspects: (1) high computation cost; (2) overflow issue existing when modulus operation is used to restore the cover image and the secret image; (3) part of the cover image being severely modified and the stego images having worse visual quality. In this paper, we combine the methods of least significant bits construction (LSBC) and dynamic embedding with one-dimensional cellular automata to propose a new lossless scheme which solves the above issues and can resist differential attack and support parallel computing. Experimental results also show that this scheme has the merit of big embedding capacity.
An Open Multicenter Study of Clinical Efficacy and Safety of Urolastic, an Injectable Implant for the Treatment of Stress Urinary Incontinence: One-Year Observation
Authors: Futyma Konrad , Miotła Paweł , Gałczyński Krzysztof , Baranowski Włodzimierz , Doniec Jacek , Wodzisławska Agnieszka , Jóźwik Maciej , Oniszczuk Małgorzata , Rechberger Tomasz
Published: April 2015

The prevalence of stress urinary incontinence rises and affects up to 30% of women after 50 years of age. Midurethral slings are currently the mainstay of surgical anti-incontinence therapy. Some patients experience recurrent SUI (RSUI) which is defined as a failure of anti-incontinence surgery after a period of time or persistence of SUI after the procedure aimed at correcting it. The urethral bulking agent application decreases invasiveness of treatment and meets patients requirements. The objective of this study was to assess the safety and clinical efficacy of Urolastic injection. One hundred and five patients with SUI (including 91 patients with RSUI) were treated with Urolastic in three tertiary gynecological clinics. The efficacy of the procedure was assessed objectively at each follow-up visit by means of cough test and a standard 1-hour pad test. Objective success rate after 12 months after primary procedure in RSUI patients was found in 59.3% of patients. In 14 patients with primary SUI improvement after 1 year was found in 71.4% of patients. Although cure rates after MUS are up to 90% there is still place for less invasive treatment option like periurethral injection of bulking agents, especially in patients with previous SUI surgical management.
Global Convergence on the Bioethics of Surgical Implants
Authors: Garcia Alberto , Monlezun Dominique J.
Published: April 2015

The increasing globalization of mankind with pluralistic belief systems necessitates physicians by virtue of their profession to partner with bioethics for soundly applying emerging knowledge and technologiesfor the best use of the patient. A subfield within medicine in which this need is acutely felt is that of surgical implants. Within this subfield such recent promising ethics and medicine partnerships include the International Tissue Engineering Research Association and UNESCO Chair in Bioethics and Human Rights’ International Code of Ethics. In this paper, we provide an overview of the emerging human rights framework from bioethics and international law, discussion of key framework principles, their application to the current surgical challenge of implantation of surgical mesh for prolapse, and conclusions and recommendations. Such discussions are meant to facilitate true quality improvement in patient care by ensuring the exciting technologies and medical practices emerging new daily are accompanied by an equal commitment of physicians to ethically provide their services for the chief end of the patient’s good.
Outcome of Vitrectomy and Chorioretinectomy in Perforating Eye Injuries
Authors: Ferreira Natália , Monteiro Sílvia , Meireles Angelina , Kuhn Ferenc
Published: April 2015

Purpose: To evaluate the anatomical and functional results of patients who underwent pars plana vitrectomy for perforating eye injuries as well as to analyze the benefit of the chorioretinectomy procedure. Methods: Retrospective and descriptive study of 24 eyes of 22 patients with perforating eye injuries operated on at the Centro Hospitalar do Porto between January 2006 and December 2012. Results: An early vitrectomy was accomplished in 67% of the eyes and a delayed vitrectomy in 33% of the eyes. A concomitant chorioretinectomy was carried out in 78%. Final proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) was found in 11%. The anatomical success was 83%. At the final follow-up, 78% had best-corrected visual acuity equal to or superior to 5/200. Of the eyes that underwent early vitrectomy, 58% regained a visual acuity of 40/200 or better, versus 17% of the cases that underwent delayed vitrectomy. Conclusion: Early vitrectomy with prophylactic chorioretinectomy seems to be an effective approach to prevent PVR and improve the visual outcome and globe survival in perforating injuries.
Differential Local Connectivity and Neuroinflammation Profiles in the Medial Prefrontal Cortex and Hippocampus in the Valproic Acid Rat Model of Autism
Authors: Codagnone Martín Gabriel , Podestá María Fernanda , Uccelli Nonthué Alejandra , Reinés Analía
Published: April 2015

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a group of developmental disabilities characterized by impaired social interaction, communication deficit and repetitive and stereotyped behaviors. Neuroinflammation and synaptic alterations in several brain areas have been suggested to contribute to the physiopathology of ASD. Although the limbic system plays an important role in the functions found impaired in ASD, reports on these areas are scarce and results controversial. In the present study we searched in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and hippocampus of rats exposed to the valproic acid (VPA) model of ASD for early structural and molecular changes, coincident in time with the behavioral alterations. After confirming delayed growth and maturation in VPA rats, we were able to detect decreased exploratory activity and social interaction at an early time point (postnatal day 35). In mPFC, although typical cortical column organization was preserved in VPA animals, we found that interneuronal space was wider than in controls. Hippocampal CA3 (cornu ammonis 3) pyramidal layer and the granular layer of the dentate gyrus both showed a disorganized spatial arrangement in VPA animals. Neuronal alterations were accompanied with increased tomato lectin and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) immunostainings both in the mPFC and hippocampus. In the latter region, the increased GFAP immunoreactivity was CA3 specific. At the synaptic level, while mPFC from VPA animals showed increased synaptophysin (SYN) immunostaining, a SYN deficit was found in all hippocampal subfields. Additionally, both the mPFC and the hippocampus of VPA rats showed increased neuronal cell adhesion molecule (NCAM) immunostaining together with decreased levels of its polysialylated form (PSA-NCAM). Interestingly, these changes were more robust in the CA3 hippocampal subfield. Our results indicate that exploratory and social deficits correlate with region-dependent neuronal disorganization and reactive gliosis in the mPFC and hippocampus of VPA rats. While microgliosis is spread in these two limbic areas, astrogliosis, although extended in the mPFC, is circumscribed to the CA3 hippocampal subfield. Our work indicates that neuroinflammation and synaptic alterations do coexist in VPA rats, making this model suitable for studying novel aspects of neuron-glia interactions. Moreover, it suggests that the mPFC and hippocampus might behave differently in the context of the local hyperconnectivity and synaptic hypotheses of autism.
Emerging Therapeutic Options in Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Querques Giuseppe , Capuano Vittorio , Frascio Pietro , Bandello Francesco , Souied Eric H.
Published: April 2015

Intravitreal injection of anti-VEGF drugs currently represents the standard of treatment for exudative age-related macular degeneration. Several therapeutic options including steroids, inhibitors of complement factors, anti-platelet-derived growth factor agents, new anti-VEGF drugs, designed ankyrin repeat proteins, sustained drug delivery devices as an alternative to intravitreal injections and encapsulated cell technology are the objects of several studies and trials worldwide in association with anti-VEGF therapy or not. Expectations are that such efforts will help overcome limitations of current therapy with anti-VEGF, extending the duration of effects and hopefully contributing to the regression of neovascular lesions.
Prospective Evaluation of Morphological and Functional Changes after Repeated Intravitreal Dexamethasone Implant (Ozurdex®) for Retinal Vein Occlusion
Authors: Bandello Francesco , Parravano Mariacristina , Cavallero Edoardo , Cascavilla Maria Lucia , Triolo Giacinto , Querques Lea , Borrelli Enrico , Giorno Paola , Varano Monica , Lattanzio Rosangela , Querques Giuseppe
Published: April 2015

Aims: To evaluate changes in macular morphology and function after repeated intravitreal dexamethasone implant (Ozurdex®) for macular edema (ME) due to retinal vein occlusion (RVO). Methods: Consecutive treatment-naïve patients with ME secondary to RVO were treated with Ozurdex and followed up to 12 months to evaluate functional and morphological outcomes by means of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and microperimetry and by enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography, respectively. Results: Thirty-five eyes of 35 patients were included for the analysis (26 central RVO, 9 branch RVO). During the 12-month study period, 8 of the 35 eyes (23%) underwent 1 intravitreal dexamethasone implant, 13 of the 35 eyes (37%) underwent 2, and 14 of the 35 eyes (40%) underwent 3 intravitreal dexamethasone implants. At 1 month from the 1st intravitreal dexamethasone implant, the mean BCVA, retinal sensitivity and central macular thickness (CMT) significantly improved compared to the baseline values. At 3 months, the mean BCVA improvement was no more significant, while retinal sensitivity further improved and CMT slightly worsened, remaining, however, significantly better than at baseline. At 12 months, those eyes that had undergone 2 retreatments showed a significant improvement of the mean BCVA, mean retinal sensitivity and CMT compared to the baseline values [0.61 ± 0.29 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (LogMAR) vs. 0.82 ± 0.33 LogMAR, p = 0.011; 12.94 ± 4.73 dB vs. 10.75 ± 3.27 dB, p = 0.043, and 321 ± 91 µm vs. 735 ± 169 µm, p = 0.001, respectively]. In those eyes that had undergone only 1 retreatment, a significant improvement was recorded only for the CMT (500 ± 224 µm vs. 695 ± 302 µm, p = 0.044). The mean retreatment interval between the 1st and the 2nd injection was 4.5 ± 1.1 months (range 3-7 months), and between the 2nd and the 3rd injection it was 4.1 ± 1 months (range 3-6 months). Conclusions: In eyes with ME secondary to RVO, Ozurdex produces functional benefits as early as 1 month after treatment/retreatment. Current optical coherence tomography and microperimetry findings confirm the concept that, in most cases, the optimum retreatment interval should be <6 months from the 1st injection.
Anterior Nutcracker Syndrome with Left Gonadal Vein Varicosities on Multiphasic Computed Tomography: An Unexpected Cause of Pyeloureteral Junction Obstruction
Authors: Di Carlo Maddalena , Gaudiano Caterina , Busato Fiorenza , Pucci Simone , Schiavina Riccardo , Vagnoni Valerio , Golfieri Rita
Published: April 2015

The anterior nutcracker syndrome is defined by the compression of the left renal vein between the aorta and superior mesenteric artery, usually related to the occurrence of hematuria. We report the case of an uncommon complication of the nutcracker syndrome. A 75-year-old woman was referred to our institution for left flank pain without hematuria. Multiphasic computer tomography urography showed a condition of left renal vein entrapment between the aorta and superior mesenteric artery with the development of left gonadal vein varicosities at the level of the renal hilum; a pyeloureteral junction compression with dilation of the pyelocalyceal system coexisted. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the association between nutcracker syndrome and pyeloureteral junction obstruction.
The Nigerian Constitution, the ecowas Treaty and the Judiciary: Interplay of Roles in the Constitutionalisation of Free Trade
Authors: Chuma-Okoro Helen
Published: April 2015

This paper discusses the Nigerian Constitution and the ecowas Treaty to determine whether and how they support free trade as envisioned in the Treaty, and the role of the judiciary in the realisation of this objective. Focusing on the ecowas Community Court and Nigerian superior courts vested with jurisdiction over constitutional matters, it argues that specific constitutional norms and policies of Nigeria inhibit the realisation of the objectives of free trade as constitutionalised in the ecowas Treaty. Relying on the principles of direct applicability and direct effect, and the arguments developed around these principles in relation to the obligations of State parties to treaties, it argues further that Community law should be applicable in national jurisdictions and enforced by national courts. Thus, Nigerian courts and the ecowas Community Court both have jurisdiction to arbitrate matters arising from national laws and policies having the effect of inhibiting the ecowas objectives of free trade. It concludes that while the ecowas and Nigerian frameworks support the interplay of roles in the adjudication and enforcement of ecowas norms, this would depend on the extent to which some of the constitutional and policy constraints in question are addressed.
Description of six new species of Anomalini from Costa Rica (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Rutelinae)
Authors: FILIPPINI VALENTINA , GALANTE EDUARDO , MICÓ ESTEFANÍA
Published: April 2015

Four new species of Anomala Samouelle and two new species of Callistethus Blanchard (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Rutelinae: Anomalini) from Costa Rica are described: A. aglaos new species, A. estrella new species, A. inbio new species, A. pincelada new species, C. ruteloides new species, and C. yalizo new species. A distribution map of each species is given and the male genitalia (aedeagus and endophallus) of the species described and similar species are illustrated.
A survey of East Palaearctic Gnaphosidae (Araneae). 4. A review of Fedotovia Charitonov, 1946
Authors: FOMICHEV ALEXANDER A. , MARUSIK YURI M.
Published: April 2015

Fedotovia Charitonov, 1946 is a genus of Gnaphosinae earlier known to contain only two species: F. uzbekistanica Charitonov 1946 (♂♀, type species) and F. mongolica Marusik, 1993 (♀). Revision of available material reveals two more species, both from Mongolia: F. mikhailovi sp. n. (♂♀) and F. feti sp. n. (♂♀). All four species have very similar copulatory organs and can be more easily differentiated by somatic characters (body size, spination, eye formula). All species are described and illustrated.
Limnophyes guarani sp. n., a new hygropetric Orthocladiinae from southern Brazil (Diptera: Chironomidae)
Authors: PINHO LUIZ CARLOS , ANDERSEN TROND
Published: April 2015

A new species of Limnophyes Eaton collected in the Corvo Branco Mountains in Santa Catarina State is described and figured, based on male and female adults, larva and pupa. The species groups with L. griseata (Edwards) and L. bidumus Sæther as the adults have a pronounced humeral pit with lanceolate setae and an additional group of lanceolate setae just posterior to antepronotum. The adults are, however, distinctly smaller, have a lower AR and have more lanceolate setae in the group just posterior to antepronotum than the two other species. The pupa can easily be separated from the pupa of L. bidumus as the anal macroseta is longer than the anal lobe. The larva lives hygropetric on vertical rock surfaces. A key to male adults of Neotropical Limnophyes is given.
Impact of the Hawaiian High on Interannual Variations of Winter Precipitation over California
Authors: Leonardo Nicholas , Hameed Sultan
Published: April 2015

Past investigations have shown that interannual variability in winter precipitation over the western United States is related to large-scale sea level pressure fluctuations. California is adjacent to the North Pacific subtropical high, also known as the Hawaiian high. This study analyzes the relationship between interannual variations of winter precipitation in California and fluctuations in the Hawaiian high’s pressure and location. Defining objective indices to characterize the high, it is shown that precipitation in California is significantly anticorrelated with the high’s intensity. Precipitation is also shown to decrease as the high shifts southward or eastward. A linear regression model of December–March precipitation averaged over all of California with the pressure and longitude of the high as independent variables explains 43% of the precipitation variance during 1949–2012. Variation of the Hawaiian high’s pressure is the major factor impacting winter precipitation in both Northern and Southern California. Smaller contributions are made by variations of the longitudinal position of the Hawaiian high to Northern California and by ENSO to Southern California. By comparison, the Pacific–North American (PNA) pattern does not significantly impact winter precipitation over California. The interannual fluctuations of the Hawaiian high’s pressure in winter are related to diabatic heating over the tropical Pacific and the Aleutian region, and are not related to diabatic heating over the West Coast of the United States. The Hawaiian high’s pressure and its latitude and longitude positions do not show decadal trends, and their interannual variations are not correlated with air temperatures averaged over the Northern Hemisphere.
Smart moves
Authors: Conyers Marcus , Wilson Donna
Published: April 2015

The Common Core State Standards emphasize higher-order thinking, problem solving, and the creation, retention, and application of knowledge. Achieving these standards creates greater cognitive demands on students. Recent research suggests that active play and regular exercise have a positive effect on brain regions associated with executive function, learning, and memory, thus increasing student achievement. Physical activity increases production of neurotransmitters that support learning readiness; oxygen flow, which facilitates healthy brain functioning, and the brain chemical BDNF, which enhances creation of neurons and synapses. The authors share practical pathways to increase the positive effect of physical activity for students of all ages.
Relationships
Authors: Ellerbrock Cheryl R. , Abbas Bridget , Dicicco Michael , Denmon Jennifer M. , Sabella Laura , Hart Jennifer
Published: April 2015

Through establishing caring relationships with adolescents, secondary teachers cultivate classroom communities that propagate care and promote academic success. Developing a caring classroom community begins on the first day of school and continues throughout the school year. In such communities, educators establish a safe and academic-focused classroom culture; create shared norms and values; promote open and honest communication; take time to get to know one another; facilitate mutual respect; encourage reciprocal care and mutual responsibility; demand academic excellence from each student; and use student-centered cooperative group structures.
The Experience of Art in Museums
Authors: Brieber David , Leder Helmut , Nadal Marcos
Published: April 2015

Research has shown that genuine artworks in the museum are appreciated more than reproductions in the laboratory. However, in previous studies, the effects of genuineness (authenticity or originality) and physical context varied together. Therefore, here we attempted to dissociate the impact of genuineness and physical context on the experience of art by using a 2 × 2 between-subjects design. Participants ( N = 110) were randomly assigned to one of four conditions: gallery/genuine, gallery/reproduction, laboratory/genuine, and laboratory/reproduction. They viewed contemporary conceptual artworks and reported their experience on Liking, Interest, Arousal, Valence, and Understanding rating scales. In contrast to our expectations, we found that neither physical context nor genuineness had an effect on participants’ evaluations of the artworks. We discuss several possible reasons for these unexpected results. These relate to the nature of the materials and the fundamental role that meaningfulness and personal relevance play in the experience of art.
Changing Criminal Attitudes Among Incarcerated Offenders
Authors: Simourd David J. , Olver Mark E. , Brandenburg Bryan
Published: April 2015

The present study investigated the effect of a criminal attitude treatment program to changes on measured criminal attitudes and postprogram recidivism. The criminal attitude program (CAP) is a standardized therapeutic curriculum consisting of 15 modules offering 44 hr of therapeutic time. It was delivered by trained facilitators to a total of 113 male offenders incarcerated in one of five state correctional institutions. Pretreatment and posttreatment comparisons were made on standardized measures of criminal attitudes, response bias, and motivation for lifestyle changes. Results found statistically significant lower criminal attitudes at posttreatment that were unaffected by response bias. There were also increases in motivation for lifestyle changes, but these did not reach statistical significance. Fifty-seven participants were released into the community following the program and were eligible for recidivism analyses. Comparisons between participants who completed the CAP and those who did not complete the CAP revealed 7% lower rearrest among CAP completers. Although preliminary, these results indicate that the CAP had a positive effect on changes to criminal attitudes and recidivism. The findings are discussed in terms of conceptual and practical considerations in the assessment and treatment of criminal attitudes among offenders.
The Relationship between Indian Realty Stocks and Online Searches
Authors: Das Prashant , Ziobrowski Alan
Published: April 2015

We examine the relationship between online real estate searches by investors and the future returns of publicly traded real estate stocks in India. We find evidence that the relevant online search volume indices are significantly related to the future movements in real estate stock returns. However, the association between online searches and stock returns diminishes quickly. The findings suggest that the significance of the online searches is driven by the online investor’s attention to real estate stocks rather than the searches’ representativeness of the fundamental shifts in the market.

JEL Classification: R3, G11, G12, G14
Subscription Rate and Volatility
Authors: Sahoo Seshadev
Published: April 2015

This article investigates the relationship between subscription rate and aftermarket volatility for IPOs issued in India during the period 2002–12. The empirical findings corroborate the evidence that subscription rate is a good indicator of aftermarket volatility for the IPO stocks. This study also finds that retail subscription rate is relatively more significant and powerful in predicting volatility than institutional investors. Surprisingly, offer size, investment bank prestige and debt–equity ratio is insignificant in explaining aftermarket volatility. The outcome can be used by the market participants to understand the potential fluctuations in the prices. This article also evaluates volatility of the IPO stocks on listing day.

JEL Classification: G12
Feline gastrointestinal eosinophilic sclerosing fibroplasia: 13 cases and review of an emerging clinical entity
Authors: Linton Michael , Nimmo Judith S , Norris Jacqueline M , Churcher Richard , Haynes Sophia , Zoltowska Agnieszka , Hughes Sunishka , Lessels Naomi S , Wright Miranda , Malik Richard
Published: April 2015

Objective:

Feline gastrointestinal eosinophilic sclerosing fibroplasia (FGESF) is a recently described inflammatory disease of cats affecting stomach or intestines and draining regional lymph nodes. This study presents clinical and laboratory data on 13 newly described cases from Australia (11) and the UK (two).

Observations:

The disease was most often observed in middle-aged cats (median 7 years of age; interquartile range 5–9 years). Ragdolls (7/13) and males (9/13) were overrepresented. Cats generally had a long history of vomiting and/or diarrhoea. Lesions were typically large, hard, non-painful, easily palpable and most commonly situated near the pylorus or ileocaecocolic junction. Lesions were heterogeneous ultrasonographically and on sectioning at celiotomy or necropsy. Masses were hard and ‘gritty’ on fine-needle aspiration due to internal trabeculae made up of mature collagen bundles. Bacteria were commonly detected within masses (9/13 cases) using either culture or conventional light microscopy and a panel of special stains, and/or fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH), although detection often required a diligent search of multiple tissue sections. A consistent bacterial morphology could not be appreciated among the different cases.

Outcome:

Patients were treated with a variable combination of cytoreduction (debulking and biopsy, to complete surgical resection), immunosuppressive therapy and antimicrobial agents. Many cats had a poor outcome, which was attributable to late diagnosis combined with suboptimal management. It is hoped that suggestions outlined in the discussion may improve clinical outcomes and long-term survival in future cases.
Putting Education in “Educational” Apps
Authors: Hirsh-Pasek Kathy , Zosh Jennifer M. , Golinkoff Roberta Michnick , Gray James H. , Robb Michael B. , Kaufman Jordy
Published: April 2015

Children are in the midst of a vast, unplanned experiment, surrounded by digital technologies that were not available but 5 years ago. At the apex of this boom is the introduction of applications (“apps”) for tablets and smartphones. However, there is simply not the time, money, or resources available to evaluate each app as it enters the market. Thus, “educational” apps—the number of which, as of January 2015, stood at 80,000 in Apple’s App Store (Apple, 2015)—are largely unregulated and untested. This article offers a way to define the potential educational impact of current and future apps. We build upon decades of work on the Science of Learning, which has examined how children learn best. From this work, we abstract a set of principles for two ultimate goals. First, we aim to guide researchers, educators, and designers in evidence-based app development. Second, by creating an evidence-based guide, we hope to set a new standard for evaluating and selecting the most effective existing children’s apps. In short, we will show how the design and use of educational apps aligns with known processes of children’s learning and development and offer a framework that can be used by parents and designers alike. Apps designed to promote active, engaged, meaningful, and socially interactive learning—four “pillars” of learning—within the context of a supported learning goal are considered educational.
An Examination of Fathers’ Mental Health Help Seeking
Authors: Isacco Anthony , Hofscher Richard , Molloy Sonia
Published: April 2015

Fathers’ mental health help seeking is an understudied area. Using participants ( N = 1,989) from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study, this study hypothesized that few fathers would seek mental health services; and increases in anxiety, depression, and parental stress would predict less mental health help seeking. Only 3.2% of the participants reported seeking mental health counseling. Among the three independent variables, only depression emerged as a significant factor that predicted less mental health help-seeking behaviors in fathers. Future research and clinical efforts need to better understand the low rates of help seeking and to identify pathways that facilitate positive mental health help seeking among fathers.
Photocatalytic degradation of Metronidazole with illuminated TiO2 nanoparticles
Authors: Farzadkia Mahdi , Bazrafshan Edris , Esrafili Ali , Yang Jae-Kyu , Shirzad-Siboni Mehdi
Published: April 2015

Metronidazole (MNZ) is a brand of nitroimidazole antibiotic, which is generally used in clinical applications and extensively used for the treatment of infectious diseases caused by anaerobic bacteria and protozoans. The aim of this investigation was to degrade MNZ with illuminated TiO2 nanoparticles at different catalyst dosage, contact time, pH, initial MNZ concentration and lamp intensity. Maximum removal of MNZ was observed at near neutral pH. Removal efficiency was decreased by increasing dosage and initial MNZ concentration. The reaction rate constant (k

obs
) was decreased from 0.0513 to 0.0072 min−1 and the value of electrical energy per order (EEo) was increased from 93.57 to 666.67 (kWh/m3) with increasing initial MNZ concentration from 40 to 120 mg/L, respectively. The biodegradability estimated from the BOD5/COD ratio was increased from 0 to 0.098. The photocatalyst demonstrated proper photocatalytic activity even after five successive cycles. Finally, UV/TiO2 is identified as a promising technique for the removal of antibiotic with high efficiency in a relatively short reaction time.
Effect of flood basalt stratigraphy on the phase of seismic waveforms recorded offshore Faroe Islands
Authors: Schuler Juerg , Christie Philip A. F. , White Robert S.
Published: April 2015

The generation of short-period multiples between highly heterogeneous layers of basalt flows can strongly alter transmitted seismic wavefields. These layers filter and modify penetrating waves, producing apparent attenuation and phase changes in the observed waveforms. We investigated the waveform and apparent phase changes of the primary seismic signal using mainly the maximum kurtosis approach. We compared the seismic recordings from two short-offset vertical seismic profiles (VSPs) with synthetic seismograms, generated from sonic logs in the same wells, and we found that short-period multiples cause a rapid broadening of the primary arrivals and strong apparent phase changes within a short depth interval below the top of the basalt flows. Relatively large uncertainties were associated with estimating constant phase shifts of the seismic arrivals within the topmost 250 m of the basalt sequences, where complex scattering occurred. Within this interval of the Brugdan I well, a phase-only compensation of the first arrivals with a frequency-independent, combined scattering, and intrinsic attenuation operator was unfeasible. At a greater depth, we found that the phase shifts, predicted by a VSP-derived effective [Formula: see text] value, were similar to those estimated from the VSP signals using the kurtosis method. Thus, phase-only compensation with a combined scattering and intrinsic attenuation operator could work well depending on the seismic signal bandwidth and the distribution, depth, and magnitude of the impedance contrasts in the basalt sequence.
Comparative Study Between Chicken Gizzards and Beef as Diets and its Influences on the Post-Embryonic Development and Longevity of Chrysomya megacephala (Fabricius) (Diptera: Calliphoridae)
Authors: Lourinho Dallavecchia Daniele , Pedroso Ferraz Adriana Cristina , Silva de Miranda Gustavo , Sousa da Silva Alexandre , Magalhães-de-Aguiar Valéria
Published: April 2015

Chicken gizzard was tested as an alternative to beef diet for creating Chrysomya megacephala (Fabricius) to reduce costs and optimize the time of diet preparation and maintenance of the colony diet. Forty newly hatched larvae were placed in 100 grams of diet: gizzard and meat (control). The experiment was performed in triplicate. The mass of mature larvae was recorded in semi-analytical balance and separate batch of five. After emergence, three replicates of 10 pairs of adults were formed. The post-embryonic development was evaluated by Tukey’s test at a 5% level of significance and longevity was adjusted Weibull regression. The mass of mature larvae showed no significant difference. The larval stage of flies reared in meat was longer. Pupae and newly emerged adults showed no significant differences as a function of diet. The increased mortality rate after after 22 days in both experimental diets. Greater longevity was achieved with diet gizzard, which was more efficient than the meat on the biological parameters studied.

Estudo Comparativo entre a Moela de Frango e Carne Bovina como Dietas e suas Influências sobre o Desenvolvimento Pós-Embrionário e Longevidade de Chrysomya megacephala (Fabricius) (Diptera: Calliphoridae)

Resumo. Moela de Frango foi testada como dieta alternativa à carne para criação de Chrysomya megacephala (Fabricius) visando reduzir custos e otimizar o tempo de preparação da dieta e manutenção da colônia. Quarenta larvas recém eclodidas foram colocadas em 100 gramas de dieta: moela e carne (controle). O experimento foi realizado em triplicata. A massa das lavas maduras foi registrada em balança semi-analítica e separada em lotes de cinco. Após a emergência, foram formadas três repetições de 10 pares de insetos adultos. O Desenvolvimento pós-embrionário foi avaliado pelo teste Tukey com nível a 5% de significância e a longevidade foi ajustada por regressão Weibull. A massa das lavas maduras não apresentou diferença significativa. A fase larval de moscas criadas em carne foi mais longa. Pupa e adultos recém-emergidos não apresentaram diferenças significativas em função da dieta. A mortalidade aumentou após 22 dias de experimento em ambas as dietas. Uma maior longevidade foi conseguida com a dieta moela, que se mostrou mais eficiente do que a carne sobre os parâmetros biológicos estudados.