bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Semi-Automatic Determination of Rockfall Trajectories
Authors: Volkwein Axel , Klette Johannes
Published: September 2014

In determining rockfall trajectories in the field, it is essential to calibrate and validate rockfall simulation software. This contribution presents an in situ device and a complementary Local Positioning System (LPS) that allow the determination of parts of the trajectory. An assembly of sensors (herein called rockfall sensor) is installed in the falling block recording the 3D accelerations and rotational velocities. The LPS automatically calculates the position of the block along the slope over time based on Wi-Fi signals emitted from the rockfall sensor. The velocity of the block over time is determined through post-processing. The setup of the rockfall sensor is presented followed by proposed calibration and validation procedures. The performance of the LPS is evaluated by means of different experiments. The results allow for a quality analysis of both the obtained field data and the usability of the rockfall sensor for future/further applications in the field.
Validating and Calibrating the Nintendo Wii Balance Board to Derive Reliable Center of Pressure Measures
Authors: Leach Julia , Mancini Martina , Peterka Robert , Hayes Tamara , Horak Fay
Published: September 2014

The Nintendo Wii balance board (WBB) has generated significant interest in its application as a postural control measurement device in both the clinical and (basic, clinical, and rehabilitation) research domains. Although the WBB has been proposed as an alternative to the “gold standard” laboratory-grade force plate, additional research is necessary before the WBB can be considered a valid and reliable center of pressure (CoP) measurement device. In this study, we used the WBB and a laboratory-grade AMTI force plate (AFP) to simultaneously measure the CoP displacement of a controlled dynamic load, which has not been done before. A one-dimensional inverted pendulum was displaced at several different displacement angles and load heights to simulate a variety of postural sway amplitudes and frequencies (<1 Hz). Twelve WBBs were tested to address the issue of inter-device variability. There was a significant effect of sway amplitude, frequency, and direction on the WBB’s CoP measurement error, with an increase in error as both sway amplitude and frequency increased and a significantly greater error in the mediolateral (ML) (compared to the anteroposterior (AP)) sway direction. There was no difference in error across the 12 WBB’s, supporting low inter-device variability. A linear calibration procedure was then implemented to correct the WBB’s CoP signals and reduce measurement error. There was a significant effect of calibration on the WBB’s CoP signal accuracy, with a significant reduction in CoP measurement error (quantified by root-mean-squared error) from 2–6 mm (before calibration) to 0.5–2 mm (after calibration). WBB-based CoP signal calibration also significantly reduced the percent error in derived (time-domain) CoP sway measures, from −10.5% (before calibration) to −0.05% (after calibration) (percent errors averaged across all sway measures and in both sway directions). In this study, we characterized the WBB’s CoP measurement error under controlled, dynamic conditions and implemented a linear calibration procedure for WBB CoP signals that is recommended to reduce CoP measurement error and provide more reliable estimates of time-domain CoP measures. Despite our promising results, additional work is necessary to understand how our findings translate to the clinical and rehabilitation research domains. Once the WBB’s CoP measurement error is fully characterized in human postural sway (which differs from our simulated postural sway in both amplitude and frequency content), it may be used to measure CoP displacement in situations where lower accuracy and precision is acceptable.
Decoupling Economic Growth and Environmental Degradation: Reviewing Progress to Date in the Small Island State of Malta
Authors: Conrad Elisabeth , Cassar Louis
Published: September 2014

This paper considers the challenge of decoupling economic growth from environmental degradation; in contrast to several large-scale cross-country analyses that focus on limited indicators of environmental degradation, we analyze in some depth the experience of a single small-scale island state setting (Malta). We use available statistical data to derive decoupling factors, in order to consider the extent to which decoupling has been achieved in four sectors: (i) energy intensity, climate change, and air quality; (ii) water; (iii) waste; and (iv) land. Results indicate relative decoupling between economic growth and several indicators considered, and to a lesser extent, relative decoupling between population growth and the same indicators of environmental pressure. Absolute decoupling has been achieved in at least one instance but there has been no decoupling of land development from either economic or population growth. Land use and population thus appear to be notable sources of pressure. The results suggest that decoupling analyses that present environmental degradation in terms of single variables (e.g., carbon emissions) may misrepresent somewhat the state of the environment at local level. Furthermore, the study highlights the need for methodologies that factor in the “embedding” of small-scale settings within much larger trade networks, for a more accurate estimation of environmental impact, and points to some limitations of solely quantitative analyses of environment-ecology relationships.
Non-Native (Exotic) Snake Envenomations in the U.S., 2005–2011
Authors: Warrick Brandon , Boyer Leslie , Seifert Steven
Published: September 2014

Non-native (exotic) snakes are a problematic source of envenomation worldwide. This manuscript describes the current demographics, outcomes and challenges of non-native snakebites in the United States (U.S.). We performed a retrospective case series of the National Poison Data System (NPDS) database between 2005 and 2011. There were 258 human exposures involving at least 61 unique exotic venomous species (average = 37 per year; range = 33–40). Males comprised 79% and females 21%. The average age was 33 years with 16% less than 20 years old. 70% of bites occurred in a private residence and 86% were treated at a healthcare facility. 35% of cases received antivenom and 10% were given antibiotics. This study is compared to our previous study (1994–2004) in which there was a substantial coding error rate. Software modifications significantly reduced coding errors. Identification and acquisition of appropriate antivenoms pose a number of logistical difficulties in the management of these envenomations. In the U.S., poison centers have valuable systems and clinical roles in the provision of expert consultation and in the management of these cases.
Trends in Levels of Allochthonous Dissolved Organic Carbon in Natural Water: A Review of Potential Mechanisms under a Changing Climate
Authors: Pagano Todd , Bida Morgan , Kenny Jonathan
Published: September 2014

Over the past several decades, dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in inland natural water systems has been a popular research topic to a variety of scientific disciplines. Part of the attention has been due to observed changes in DOC concentrations in many of the water systems of the Northern Hemisphere. Shifts in DOC levels, and changes in its composition, are of concern due to its significance in aquatic ecosystem functioning and its potential and realized negative effects on waters that might be treated for drinking purposes. While it may not be possible to establish sound cause and effect relationships using a limited number of drivers, through long-term DOC monitoring studies and a variety of laboratory/field experiments, several explanations for increasing DOC trends have been proposed, including two key mechanisms: decreased atmospheric acid deposition and the increasing impact of climate change agents. The purpose of this review is three-fold: to outline frequently discussed conceptual mechanisms used to explain DOC increases (especially under a changing climate), to discuss the structure of DOC and the impact of higher levels of DOC on drinking water resources, and to provide renewed/sustained interest in DOC research that can encourage interdisciplinary collaboration. Understanding the cycling of carbon from terrestrial ecosystems into natural waters is necessary in the face of a variable and changing climate, as climate change-related mechanisms may become increasingly responsible for variations in the inputs of allochthonous DOC concentrations in water.
Water Scarcity in Cyprus: A Review and Call for Integrated Policy
Authors: Sofroniou Anastasia , Bishop Steven
Published: September 2014

This article is a study of water scarcity in Cyprus, examining the implications on the demand and supply side of water under the transformations caused by economic development, urbanisation and environmental changes. Measures and actions taken by water stakeholders to tackle the water poverty issue are discussed and assessed, together with possible future solution methods. In the light of the success of global climate models to forecast future conditions and advances in integrated management tools, the suggestion here is the need for a global systems approach to help guide policy decisions.
SENSITIVITY ANALYSIS OF THE STRESS STATE IN SHELL COURSES OF WELDED TANKS FOR OIL STORAGE
Authors: Kala Zdeněk , Gottvald Jakub , Stoniš Jakub , Omishore Abayomi
Published: September 2014

The paper deals with the analysis of reliability and safety of a welded tank for the storage of oil, which is located in the Czech Republic. The oil tank has a capacity of 125 thousand cubic meters. It is one of the largest tanks of its kind in the world. Safety is ensured by a steel outer intercepting shell and a double bottom. The tank was modelled in the programme ANSYS. The computational model was developed using the finite element method – elements SHELL181. A nonlinear contact problem was analysed for the simulation of the interaction between the bottom plate and foundation. The normative approach in design and check of tanks according to standards API 650, ČSN EN 14015, EEMUA 159 and API 653 is mentioned. The dominant loading of the filled tank is from oil. The normative solution is based on the shell theory, which considers constant wall thickness. For real tanks sheet thicknesses of individual courses increase with increasing depth. Stochastic sensitivity analysis was used to study the effect of the variability of the thickness of the ith course on the stress of adjacent courses. The Latin Hypercube Sampling method was implemented during analysis.
Association of Faculty Perceptions of Work–Life With Emotional Exhaustion and Intent to Leave Academic Nursing: Report on a National Survey of Nurse Faculty
Authors: Yedidia Michael J. , Chou Jolene , Brownlee Susan , Flynn Linda , Tanner Christine A.
Published: September 2014

The current and projected nurse faculty shortage threatens the capacity to educate sufficient numbers of nurses for meeting demand. As part of an initiative to foster strategies for expanding educational capacity, a survey of a nationally representative sample of 3,120 full-time nurse faculty members in 269 schools and programs that offered at least one prelicensure degree program was conducted. Nearly 4 of 10 participants reported high levels of emotional exhaustion, and one third expressed an intent to leave academic nursing within 5 years. Major contributors to burnout were dissatisfaction with workload and perceived inflexibility to balance work and family life. Intent to leave was explained not only by age but by several potentially modifiable aspects of work, including dissatisfaction with workload, salary, and availability of teaching support. Preparing sufficient numbers of nurses to meet future health needs will require addressing those aspects of work–life that undermine faculty teaching capacity. [
J Nurs Educ.
2014;53(10):569–579.]
Mateo Vázquez de Leca: un secretario entre libros. 2. La biblioteca (1)
Authors: Gonzalo Sánchez-Molero José Luis
Published: September 2014

Mateo Vázquez de Leca (c. 1542-1591), canónigo de la catedral de Sevilla, arcediano de Carmona y secretario de Felipe II, fue uno de los personajes más influyentes en el último tercio del reinado de Felipe II. En el presente artículo se ofrece una reconstrucción del papel que los libros tuvieron en la formación y en el oficio político de este secretario regio, y se analiza, por medio de las fuentes de que disponemos, cómo se produjo el proceso de construcción de su biblioteca.
El proceso de la Inquisición contra la lectura del Arte de Ramón Llull en la Universidad de Zaragoza (1610)
Authors: Ramis Barceló Rafael
Published: September 2014

Este escrito pretende explicar el proceso de la Inquisición de Zaragoza contra la lectura del Arte de Ramon Llull en la Universidad en 1610. El maestro Agustín Núñez Delgadillo enseñó el Arte de Llull, pero el Rector y el Claustro le prohibieron hacerlo, aunque pocos años antes Felipe II había apoyado públicamente el lulismo en diferentes lugares, especialmente en Alcalá. Para entender mejor el proceso, habrá que enmarcarlo en las difíciles relaciones entre el Rey, el Papa y las diferentes corrientes e intereses de la Iglesia y de los Reinos Hispánicos.
La expulsión de los lectores dominicos del convento de Sanlúcar de Barrameda, en 1774
Authors: Daza Palacios Salvador
Published: September 2014

En el marco del difícil proceso criminal abierto contra el fraile carmelita Pablo de San Benito en Sanlúcar de Barrameda, en 1774, la justicia del rey Carlos III, encarnada por el alcalde mayor Roque Marín, deberá hacer frente también a las graves y fuertes presiones que ejercerá el estamento eclesiástico de la ciudad gaditana con el fin de desautorizarle y menoscabar su poder y sus deseos de controlar la disciplina religiosa y las frecuentes discordias existentes, principalmente en la Orden de Santo Domingo. Todo ello se saldará con la expulsión de los lectores de Teología del convento dominicano sanluqueño por orden del Consejo de Castilla y refleja un sombrío panorama, en plena Ilustración, de graves conflictos internos en el seno de las órdenes religiosas españolas.
Campanas y campaneros: el taller de fundición del siglo XVIII de la ermita de Vera Cruz de Frandovínez (Burgos)
Authors: Alonso Fernández Carmen
Published: September 2014

Los resultados obtenidos en la excavación arqueológica realizada en la antigua ermita de la Vera Cruz de Frandovínez (Burgos), en concreto los relacionados con un taller de fundición de campanas del siglo XVIII, constituyen un importante avance en el conocimiento de este tipo de elementos del patrimonio histórico industrial, ya que de manera excepcional han sido documentadas la totalidad de las estructuras integrantes del taller. Por otro lado, la documentación existente de 1788, ha permitido indagar en aspectos relacionados con la contratación de la obra, el montante económico y los diferentes oficios que participaron en la empresa.
Raptor
Authors: Grzonkowski Slawomir , Vasiliu Laurentiu , Koumpis Adamantios
Published: September 2014

The shift towards cyberspace created a very wide range of opportunities for various criminal activities, in both the real and the virtual world, such as identity theft, fraud, organized crime, and seriously organized crime, on an unprecedented scale. In this chapter, the authors propose a combination of integration activities for the best tools that help identify threats and security gaps for business and industrial users, for new analytical tools proposed to check if existing security features of the used networked structures are adequate and up-to-date and up-to-speed to address potential threat scenarios.
Online Violence
Authors: Dias de Castro Teresa Sofia Pereira , Osório António José
Published: September 2014

The Internet imprints a great complexity to new and old risks as threats become more available in children's lives. Criminals have greater access to the victims and Internet crimes are favoured by ambiguities in the law. This chapter presents preliminary data from an on-going doctoral investigation about the upsetting phenomenon of violence perpetrated by, with, and among school-aged children using online services and devices. To better understand the subjectivity, delicacy, and complexity of matters and meanings that participants bring to their online experiences, the authors follow a qualitative approach, based on a structured and interpretive analysis. They work with a group of children aged between 6 and 15 years old. With this chapter, the authors intend to contribute to a greater understanding and reflection about this complex problem and its impact in order to increase awareness about how children behave online and in what way it may influence their well-being.
Development and Mitigation of Android Malware
Authors: Cooper Vanessa N. , Shahriar Hossain , Haddad Hisham M.
Published: September 2014

As mobile applications are being developed at a faster pace, the security aspect of user information is being neglected. A compromised smartphone can inflict severe damage to both users and the cellular service provider. Malware on a smartphone can make the phone partially or fully unusable, cause unwanted billing, steal private information, or infect every name in a user's phonebook. A solid understanding of the characteristics of malware is the beginning step to prevent much of the unwanted consequences. This chapter is intended to provide an overview of security threats posed by Android malware. In particular, the authors focus on the characteristics commonly found in malware applications and understand the code level features that allow us to detect the malicious signatures. The authors also discuss some common defense techniques to mitigate the impact of malware applications.
DNA Databases for Criminal Investigation
Authors: Curado Henrique
Published: September 2014

This chapter studies the establishment of DNA databases and their relevance at two levels. On the one hand, as a basis for criminal investigation, they contribute to the protection of the public against potentially criminal behavior. In our societies, mass violence is not a sporadic occurrence and knowledge. When DNA databases allow for preventive action, they may be synonymous with safety. On the other hand, DNA databases pose deeper problems, such as a felon's data are still personal data and as such need to be protected. Any violation of this right is against the law. Therefore, a society that wants to be lawfully protected must first protect. The study is focused on Spanish and Portuguese statutes enforced in 2007 and 2008, respectively, as well as on doctrine and jurisprudence produced in both countries and intended to strengthen cyberspace security and to guarantee access to information.
A Taxonomy of Browser Attacks
Authors: Saini Anil , Gaur Manoj Singh , Laxmi Vijay
Published: September 2014

Browser attacks over the years have stormed the Internet world with so many malicious activities. They provide unauthorized access and damage or disrupt user information within or outside the browser. This chapter focuses on the complete attack actions adopted by an attacker while crafting an attack on Web browser. The knowledge gained from the attacker's actions can be framed into a suitable taxonomy, which can then be used as a framework for examining the browser attack footprints, vulnerability in browser design, and helps one to understand the characteristics and nature of an attacker. This chapter presents a browser attack taxonomy that helps in combating new browser attacks and improving browser security.
Defending Information Networks in Cyberspace
Authors: Carneiro Alberto
Published: September 2014

This chapter addresses some concerns and highlights some of the major problems affecting cyberspace. This chapter focuses on defensive attitudes and concerns pertaining to the cybersecurity issues. Section 1, “Facing Cyberspace Security,” opens the area of threats and the need of defensive attitudes. Section 2, “Remembering Internet Issues,” deals with known Internet problems in what concerns cybersecurity as a generic term. In –Section 3, “Defensive Cybersecurity,” the focus is on the need to add more defensive features to security policies. Section 4, “In Search of Better Solutions,” emphasizes the need to invest continuously in scientific research and the creation of more sophisticated processes in order to prevent new forms of attack and mitigate negative results.
Surveillance, Privacy, and Due Diligence in Cybersecurity
Authors: Kulesza Joanna
Published: September 2014

The chapter covers the international law due diligence principle as applied to the prevention of transboundary cyberthreats. The analysis is based on the work of the International Law Commission referring to state responsibility and international liability as applicable to the challenge of international cybersecurity. The first attempts of this application by European international organizations are discussed. This is done in the light of the current political challenge of engaging all states in the discussion on the appropriate standard of cyberthreats prevention. Reaching to the no harm principle of international law, the author argues that all states need to take all necessary measures in order to prevent significant transboundary damage originated by online activities of individuals within their jurisdiction, power, or control. Should they fail to show due diligence they may be held internationally responsible for an omission contrary to their obligation of preventing harm to other states, foreigners, or shared resources.
Key Issues in Implementing Destination Management Systems
Authors: Martins Catarina Antónia , Martins da Costa Carlos Manuel , Pacheco Osvaldo Rocha
Published: September 2014

Destination management systems have been referred in recent years as the ICT infrastructure of a destination management organization (World Tourism Organization, 2001). It is not yet clear on literature what are the success factors underlying the implementation of these systems and if traditionally the destination management systems have failed to achieve the initially expected benefits (Buhalis & Spada, 2000) today some successful cases can be identified (Buhalis & Egger, 2008). This study aims to present the conceptual framework of an investigation intended to define the main factors behind the success of these systems. The research model is based on the assumption that these success factors fit in three spheres of action: the dynamics of the system implementation within a destination management organization, the very specific features of those destination management systems and the organizational environment in the destination.
Inclusion and Universal Design for Learning in Italian Schools
Authors: Aiello Paola , Di Gennaro Diana Carmela , Palumbo Carmen , Zollo Iolanda , Sibilio Maurizio
Published: September 2014

The present theoretical-argumentative research is aimed to put in evidence the Italian perspective on the use of technologies for promoting inclusion in school contexts. In a society which uses technological innovations and multimediality in all the domains of everyday life, indeed, school is required to explore the potential and meaning of educational technologies. During the last years, in light of these new requirements, national and international educational policies have tried to take advantage of the opportunities offered by new technologies to create flexible educational pathways so as to ensure equal access to information and learning processes, by promoting the elimination of all barriers that deny students the right to education. In the perspective of inclusive education, technologies within the educational field can't only represent a compensatory tool to support students with disabilities or with learning difficulties, but they also definitely play a very important role in the reconfiguration of learning environments by creating the necessary conditions for the promotion of each student's differences and abilities.
Enhancing User Experience in Financial Services
Authors: Molu Fatma , Findik Nur , Dalci Mustafa
Published: September 2014

The domain of User Experience (UX) involves studying, designing for and evaluating the experiences that people have through the use of a system. This use takes place in a specific context, which has an impact on, or contributes to, the UX. As enterprises make a focus on the customer integral to their strategies, they need to recognize that technology developments are changing the customer relationship. In today's world, a great number of interactions between financial services and their customers have moved to digital environments and as a result a user interface design's significance increases in shaping the digital, financial experience.Based on this increasing importance, this paper proposes the role of usability studies for return on investment, along with a case study carried out in Kuveyt Turk Participation Bank. It involves an extended user research of online bank services which resulted with new specifications to be applied in the new corporate online banking service.
ModEAS
Authors: Prieto-González Lisardo , Colomo-Palacios Ricardo , Puerta Beatriz , Tamm Gerrit
Published: September 2014

Mobile technologies and more precisely apps have disrupted technology scenario. Bring your own application (BYOA) is a new trend that has emerged after the “bring your own device” (BYOD) vogue. However, and in spite of its intrinsic benefits, the trend presents also several caveats and Enterprise app stores are seen as a way to tackle these risks. In this paper, authors present ModEAS, a system designed to serve as a modular and scalable architecture when developing a middle scale or personal Enterprise app store.
A Historical Materialist Analysis of the Debate in Swedish Print Media on Mobile Phones in School Settings
Authors: Ott Torbjörn
Published: September 2014

The use of mobile phones for teaching and learning in schools has been a controversial matter. In this paper the debate in two Swedish newspapers on the use of mobile phones in schools is analysed using a historical materialist framework. The results are discussed in relation to contemporary research on mobile learning. The analysis reveals that the debate has been a consequence of a conflict of control of the process of learning in schools. Statements from the stakeholders in the debate indicate that it primarily has been a conflict between those who rule school, the legislators, and those who are ruled, the school staff and the pupils. Knowledge of this could contribute to the understanding of difficulties occurring when implementing a mobile learning concept in the educational system.
Reducing Risk through Governance
Authors: Yeh I-Jan , Chang Ching-Liang , Ueng Joe , Ramaswamy Vinita
Published: September 2014

The main purpose of this study is to investigate the determinants of formal governance policy. Many firms have a formal governance policy. Others, however, have no such a policy. This study examines what kind of firm's characteristics that encourage companies to adopt a formal governance policy. Data were collected from Corporate Library. A sample of 3,068 firms from the database of 2010 Corporate Library was analyzed. Results show that when firms have a better financial performance and better corporate governance practice, they are more likely to have a formal governance policy. Specifically, when firms have a better board rating, compensation policy, takeover defense strategy, and accounting practice, firms are more likely to have a formal governance policy.
Experiences in Social Innovation
Authors: Sánchez Domingo Alfonso Martín , Laso Ana García
Published: September 2014

Convergence is an opportunity to determine the possibility to train students in social skills, assuming that our universities provide valuable training in specific technical and professional skills. This study presents the strategy followed in the Mines and Energy Engineering School of the Polytechnic University of Madrid (UPM from its name in Spanish) to enhance social learning through a program based on the assembly of training practices on Mentoring, Service Learning and social consciousness (Ethics and values in engineering). In this article we discuss about social motivation through social collaboration with qualified entities in the Spanish social landscape such as Tomillo Foundation, Congregation Mary Immaculate as well as looking to a future collaboration with the Ana Bella Foundation.
Case Study on Collaborative Work Experiences with Web 2.0 in Spanish Primary Schools with the Highest Institutional Accreditation Level
Authors: Rodríguez Ana Iglesias , Gómez María Cruz Sánchez , Muñoz Concepción Pedrero
Published: September 2014

ICT constitutes a suitable tool for the generation of joint communicative spaces where manifold variables may converge and a wide range of methodologies and strategies can be activated, thus fostering richer levels of interaction and swift communication between its users. This case describes and analyses the collaborative work experiences with ICT that are being implemented in the third cycle of Primary Education in schools located in north-western Spain (Region of Castile and León). The results evince that teachers hold a positive view once they have used such technology-based approaches, although they demand a better provision of infrastructures and more institutional support, including specific aids for life-long learning schemes. Conclusions of this study have been drawn both to help and to offer some guidance to teachers engaged in innovative, collaborative, and technologically-assisted curricular processes within 2.0 school settings.
Endoscopic treatment for complex biliary and pancreatic duct injuries
Authors: Bouchard Simon , Devière Jacques
Published: September 2014

Severe injuries of biliary or pancreatic ducts are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Severe bile duct injuries such as major biliary leaks, complete transection, or complete occlusion of bile ducts can be grouped under the term complex bile duct injuries (CBDI). In the spectrum of pancreatic duct injuries, disconnected pancreatic duct syndrome (DPDS) represents the most severe form and most often occurs after a severe episode of acute pancreatitis. Treatment of these complex injuries is quite challenging and for many years surgical management has been considered the treatment of choice. However, in the past few years, some studies have reported the successful management of CBDI or DPDS using endoscopic procedures alone or in combination with a percutaneous approach. In this review, we detail the endoscopic or combined endoscopic/percutaneous treatment possibilities for CBDI and DPDS.
Clinical and endoscopic parameters at presentation that predict the need for long-term immunosuppression in ulcerative colitis
Authors: Sreerama Ranjit K. , Chhabra Puneet , Sharma Vishal , Nada Ritambhra , Sharma Ravi , Rao Chalapathi , Gupta Rajesh , Kaman Lileswar , Rana Surinder S. , Bhasin Deepak K.
Published: September 2014

Introduction: The clinical course of ulcerative colitis (UC) ranges from a mild course with prolonged periods of remission to severe disease requiring long-term immunosuppression for disease control. There is limited data on the predictors of need for immunosuppression at presentation. Objective: The aim was to evaluate clinical, endoscopic and histopathological parameters at presentation in patients with UC that predict the need for long-term immunosuppressive therapy. Materials and Methods: We studied 81 patients (males; 40; mean age 38.69 ± 12.90 years) with UC (41 prospectively and 40 retrospectively). The clinical presentation, duration, extra-intestinal features, extent of disease, haematological and biochemical features, histology and outcome (drugs, surgery, and mortality) were recorded and analyzed. Subgroup analysis was done after dividing the patients into two groups depending upon whether they needed long term immunosuppressants or not. Results: The presenting symptoms were bloody stools (100%), mucus in stools (98.8%), abdominal pain (35.8%), anorectal pain (14.8%) and extra-intestinal symptoms (4.9%). Of these 81 patients, 7 (8.6%) patients required surgery and 2 (2.4%) patients died. Long term immunosuppressants were used in 19 patients (Azathioprine 16, Mycophenolate mofetil 2 and Tacrolimus 1). The patients who received immunosuppressants had a higher prevalence of pancolitis (47.4% vs. 16.1%, P = 0.005). Other clinical, hematological and histological parameters such as inflammatory grade, chronicity grade, cellular infiltrates, submucosal fibrosis, Paneth cell metaplasia, and the presence of neuronal cells were similar in the two groups. Conclusion: Of the clinical, biochemical, endoscopic and histological features at presentation only the presence of pancolitis predicts the need for long term immunosuppressants in ulcerative colitis.
Endoscopic ultrasound coil placement of gastric varices: Emerging modality for recurrent bleeding gastric varices
Authors: Harwani Yogesh , Goenka Mahesh Kumar , Rai Vijay , Goenka Usha
Published: September 2014

Gastric varices are the probable source of bleeding in 10-36% of patients, with acute variceal bleeding and carry high mortality and rebleeding rates. Till date, cyanoacrylate glue injection is considered as the standard of care but has high complication rate. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) guided coil placement is a new emerging technique of management of gastric varices. In this case report, we detail the EUS guided coil placement for management of gastric varices after failed glue injections.
Eventration of diaphragm with a rare association
Authors: Shafiq Syed , Ramathilakam B.
Published: September 2014

Eventration of the diaphragm is a rare anomaly of unknown origin characterized by a permanent high position of one or rarely both the leaflets of the diaphragm, providing a potential space for the displacement of abdominal viscera on the affected side(s). The etiology, diagnosis, and management of this condition remains a controversial subject. We report a rare case of infiltrating squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus in a patient with eventration of the diaphragm and gastric volvulus who presented to us with retrosternal discomfort. To the best of our knowledge, this rare association has not been reported in the literature, although one case of esophageal adenocarcinoma arising from Barrett’s esophagus in association with eventration of the diaphragm has been reported previously. This case again emphasis the varied associations of an eventration of the diaphragm.
The influence of nitrogen and calcium fertilizers on septoria late blight and yield of celery
Authors: Tesfaendrias Michael T. , Trueman Cheryl L. , Gossen Bruce D. , McKeown Alan W. , McDonald Mary Ruth
Published: September 2014

Tesfaendrias, M. T., Trueman, C. L., Gossen, B. D., McKeown, A. W. and McDonald, M. R. 2014. The influence of nitrogen and calcium fertilizers on septoria late blight and yield of celery. Can. J. Plant Sci. 94: 1391–1399. Late blight (Septoria apiicola) reduces both yield and quality of fresh market and processing celery. Field trials were conducted over 4 site-years to evaluate the effect of nitrogen (N) rate and foliar calcium (Ca) fertilization on the development of late blight and yield on celery grown on muck soils, which have a high organic matter (OM) content. A treatment with the protectant fungicide chlorothalonil was included to determine if fertilizer could replace fungicide application in celery production. There was a cultivar×site-year interaction for each of the disease and yield variables. Repeated application of chlorothalonil fungicide reduced late blight and generally increased plant height, weight and marketable yield. The rate of N applied had a small effect on late blight, which varied among site-years. Area under the disease progress curve decreased with increasing rate of N at both sites in 2008. Similarly, an increasing rate of N resulted in an increase in yield in one of four site-years. Application of Ca did not affect late blight severity and increased yield in only 1 site-year. There was a negative correlation between late blight severity and yield. Tissue N concentrations varied among the treatments at sites with a relatively low OM content, but not at the high OM sites. The treatments had no effect on Ca tissue concentrations. Application of N and Ca alone did not adequately control late blight, but there was a slight reduction in late blight severity with increasing rates of N. Application of both N and Ca can improve yield and also contribute indirectly to improved late blight management in combination with fungicides and other integrated crop management practices.
Genotyping an Emiliania huxleyi (prymnesiophyceae) bloom event in the North Sea reveals evidence of asexual reproduction
Authors: Krueger-Hadfield S. A. , Balestreri C. , Schroeder J. , Highfield A. , Helaouët P. , Allum J. , Moate R. , Lohbeck K. T. , Miller P. I. , Riebesell U. , Reusch T. B. H. , Rickaby R. E. M. , Young J. , Hallegraeff G. , Brownlee C. , Schroeder D. C.
Published: September 2014

Abstract. Due to the unprecedented rate at which our climate is changing, the ultimate consequence for many species is likely to be either extinction or migration to an alternate habitat. Certain species might, however, evolve at a rate that could make them resilient to the effects of a rapidly changing environment. This scenario is most likely to apply to species that have large population sizes and rapid generation times, such that the genetic variation required for adaptive evolution can be readily supplied. Emiliania huxleyi (Lohm.) Hay and Mohler (Prymnesiophyceae) is likely to be such a species, as it is the most conspicuous extant calcareous phytoplankton species in our oceans with growth rates of 1 day−1. Here we report on a validated set of microsatellites, in conjunction with the coccolithophore morphology motif genetic marker, to genotype 93 clonal isolates collected from across the world. Of these, 52 came from a single bloom event in the North Sea collected on the D366 United Kingdom Ocean Acidification cruise in June–July 2011. There were 26 multilocus genotypes (MLGs) encountered only once in the North Sea bloom and 8 MLGs encountered twice or up to six times. Each of these repeated MLGs exhibited Psex values of less than 0.05, indicating each repeated MLG was the product of asexual reproduction and not separate meiotic events. In addition, we show that the two most polymorphic microsatellite loci, EHMS37 and P01E05, are reporting on regions likely undergoing rapid genetic drift during asexual reproduction. Despite the small sample size, there were many more repeated genotypes than previously reported for other bloom-forming phytoplankton species, including a previously genotyped E. huxleyi bloom event. This study challenges the current assumption that sexual reproduction predominates during bloom events. Whilst genetic diversity is high amongst extant populations of E. huxleyi, the root cause for this diversity and ultimate fate of these populations still requires further examination. Nonetheless, we show that certain CMM genotypes are found everywhere, while others appear to have a regional bias.
Distribution of PAHs and the PAH-degrading bacteria in the deep-sea sediments of the high-latitude Arctic Ocean
Authors: Dong C. , Bai X. , Sheng H. , Jiao L. , Zhou H. , Shao Z.
Published: September 2014

Abstract. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are persistent organic pollutants, which can be transferred to a long distance and tend to accumulation in marine sediment. However, PAHs distribution and natural bioattenuation is less known in open sea, especially in the Arctic Ocean. In this report, sediment samples were collected at four sites from the Chukchi Plateau to Makarov Basin in the summer of 2010. PAH composition and total concentrations were examined with GC-MS, we found that the concentrations of 16 EPA-priority PAHs varied from 2.0 to 41.6 ng g−1 dry weight in total and decreased with sediment depths and as well as from the southern to northern sites. Among the targeted PAHs, phenanthrene was relatively abundant in all sediments. To learn the diversity of bacteria involved in PAHs degradation in situ, the 16S rRNA gene of the total environmental DNA was analyzed with Illumina high throughput sequencing (IHTS). In all the sediments, occurred the potential degraders including Cycloclasticus, Pseudomonas, Halomonas, Pseudoalteromonas, Marinomonas, Bacillus, Dietzia, Colwellia, Acinetobacter, Alcanivorax, Salinisphaera and Shewanella, with Dietzia as the most abundant. Meanwhile on board, enrichment with PAHs was initiated and repeated transfer in laboratory to obtain the degrading consortia. Most above mentioned bacteria in addition to Hahella, Oleispira, Oceanobacter and Hyphomonas, occurred alternately as a predominant member in enrichment cultures from different sediments, as revealed with IHTS and PCR-DGGE. To reconfirm their role in PAH degradation, 40 different bacteria were isolated and characterized, among which Cycloclasticus and Pseudomonas showed the best degradation capability under low temperature. Taken together, PAHs and PAH-degrading bacteria were widespread in the deep-sea sediments of the Arctic Ocean. We propose that bacteria of Cycloclasticus, Pseudomonas, Pseudoalteromonas, Halomonas, Marinomonas and Dietzia may play the most important role in PAHs mineralization in situ.
The impact of periodization methods on the kinetic energy spectra for limited-area numerical weather prediction models
Authors: Blažica V. , Gustafsson N. , Žagar N.
Published: September 2014

Abstract. The paper deals with the comparison of the most common periodization methods used to obtain spectral fields of limited-area models for numerical weather prediction. The focus is on the impact the methods have on the spectra of the fields, which are used for verification and tuning of the models. A simplified model is applied with random fields that obey a known kinetic energy spectrum. The periodization methods under consideration are detrending, the discrete cosine transform and the application of an extension zone. For extension zone, three versions are applied: the Boyd method, the ALADIN method and the HIRLAM method. The results show that detrending and the discrete cosine transform have little impact on the spectra, as does the Boyd method for extension zone. For the ALADIN and HIRLAM methods, the impact depends on the width of the extension zone – the wider the zone, the more artificial energy and the larger impact on the spectra. The width of the extension zone correlates to the modifications in the shape of the spectra as well as to the amplitudes of the additional energy in the spectra.
Perception of flood and landslide risk in Italy: a preliminary analysis
Authors: Salvati P. , Bianchi C. , Fiorucci F. , Giostrella P. , Marchesini I. , Guzzetti F.
Published: September 2014

Abstract. Inundations and landslides are widespread phenomena in Italy, where they cause severe damage and pose a threat to the population. Little is known about the public perception of landslide and flood risk. This is surprising, as an accurate perception is important for the successful implementation of many risk reduction or adaptation strategies. In an attempt to address this gap, we have conducted two national surveys to measure the perception of landslide and flood risk amongst the population of Italy. The surveys were conducted in 2012 and 2013, and consisted of approximately 3100 computer-assisted telephone interviews for each survey. The samples of the interviewees were statistically representative for a national-scale quantitative assessment. The interviewees were asked questions designed to obtain information on (i) their perception of natural, environmental, and technological risks, (ii) direct experience or general knowledge of the occurrence of landslides and floods in their municipality, (iii) perception of the possible threat posed by landslides and floods to their safety, (iv) general knowledge on the number of victims affected by landslides or floods, and on (v) the factors that the interviewees considered important for controlling landslide and flood risks in Italy. The surveys revealed that the population of Italy fears technological risks more than natural risks. Of the natural risks, earthquakes were considered more dangerous than floods, landslides, and volcanic eruptions. Examination of the temporal and geographical distributions of the responses revealed that the occurrence of recent damaging events influenced risk perception locally, and that the perception persisted longer for earthquakes and decreased more rapidly for landslides and floods. We explain the difference by the diverse consequences of the risks. The interviewees considered inappropriate land management the main cause of landslide and food risk, followed by illegal construction, abandonment of the territory, and climate change. Comparison of the risk perception with actual measures of landslide and flood risk, including the number of fatal events, the number of fatalities, and the mortality rates, revealed that in most of the Italian regions, the perception of the threat did not match the long-term risk posed to the population by landslides and floods. This outcome points to a need to foster an understanding of the public towards landslide and flood hazards and risks in Italy.
Rockslides on limestone cliffs with subhorizontal bedding in the southwestern calcareous area of China
Authors: Feng Z. , Li B. , Yin Y. P. , He K.
Published: September 2014

Abstract. Calcareous mountainous areas are highly prone to geohazards, and rockslides play an important role in cliff retreat. This study presents three examples of failures of limestone cliffs with subhorizontal bedding in the southwestern calcareous area of China. Field observations and numerical modeling of Yudong Escarpment, Zengzi Cliff, and Wangxia Cliff showed that pre-existing vertical joints passing through thick limestone and the alternation of competent and incompetent layers are the most significant features for rockslides. A "hard-on-soft" cliff made of hard rocks superimposed on soft rocks is prone to rock slump, characterized by shearing through the underlying weak strata along a curved surface and backward tilting. When a slope contains weak interlayers rather than a soft basal, a rock collapse could occur from the compression fracture and tensile split of the rock mass near the interfaces. A rockslide might shear through a hard rock mass if no discontinuities are exposed in the cliff slope, and sliding may occur along a moderately inclined rupture plane. The "toe breakout" mechanism mainly depends on the strength characteristics of the rock mass.
Brief Communication: The interaction of clouds with surface latent heat flux variation before the 2011 M = 6.1 Russia earthquake
Authors: Jie Y. , Guangmeng G.
Published: September 2014

Abstract. Recently, surface latent heat flux (SLHF) data have been widely used to study the anomalies before earthquakes. Most studies use the daily SLHF data. Here we use both the daily SLHF data and the high temporal resolution (four times one day) SLHF data, and compare the SLHF changes with satellite cloud images at the first time. We check the data from 1 September to 30 October 2011, and the result shows that there is really a very high SLHF anomaly (more than 2σ) in the epicenter area just 5 days before the M = 6.1 Russia earthquake that occurred on 14 October 2011. It should be considered as a preseismic precursor if judged with previously published methods, but our comparison between SLHF change and satellite images shows that the SLHF anomaly is contaminated by a thick cloud. It is difficult to verify that this SLHF anomaly is caused by an earthquake and our analysis shows that it is more related to meteorological reason. This example tells us that scientists must know the data's meaning before they use it; if not, they may draw a wrong conclusion. Based on this example, we suggest that previously published SLHF anomalies before earthquakes should be reanalyzed with our method to exclude the false anomalies.