bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Hertzian Integrated Contact Model of the Total Knee Replacement Implant for the Estimation of Joint Contact Forces
Authors: Dao Tien Tuan , Pouletaut Philippe
Published: October 2015

The prediction of lower limb muscle and contact forces may provide useful knowledge to assist the clinicians in the diagnosis as well as in the development of appropriate treatment for musculoskeletal disorders. Research studies have commonly estimated joint contact forces using model-based muscle force estimation due to the lack of a reliable contact model and material properties. The objective of this present study was to develop a Hertzian integrated contact model. Then, in vivo elastic properties of the Total Knee Replacement (TKR) implant were identified using in vivo contact forces leading to providing reliable material properties for modeling purposes. First, a patient specific rigid musculoskeletal model was built. Second, a STL-based implant model was designed to compute the contact area evolutions during gait motions. Finally, a Hertzian integrated contact model was defined for the in vivo identification of elastic properties (Young’s modulus and Poisson coefficient) of the instrumented TKR implant. Our study showed a potential use of a new approach to predict the contact forces without knowledge of muscle forces. Thus, the outcomes may lead to accurate and reliable prediction of human joint contact forces for new case study.
‘Chameleonic' Serological Findings Leading to Life-Threatening Hemolytic Transfusion Reactions
Authors: Sümnig Ariane , Mayer Beate , Kiefel Volker , Greinacher Andreas , Salama Abdulgabar
Published: October 2015

Background: The phenomena of co-incidence of transfusion-induced allo- and autoantibodies, blockage and/or loss of red blood cell (RBC) antigens are conspicuous and may result in confusion and misdiagnosis. Case Report: A 67-year-old female was transferred to the intensive care unit due to hemolysis which developed 2 days following transfusion of three Rh(D)-negative RBC units in the presence of strongly reactive autoantibodies. Standard serological testing and genotyping were performed. Upon arrival, the patient was typed as Ccddee. Her hemolysis was decompensated, and an immediate blood transfusion was required. In addition, direct and indirect antiglobulin tests (DAT and IAT) as well as the eluate were strongly positive. Emergency transfusion of Rh(D)-negative RBCs resulted in increased hemolysis and renal failure. An exhaustive testing revealed anti-D, anti-c, CCddee phenotype and CCD.ee genotype. Three units of cryopreserved CCddee RBCs were transfused, and the patient's condition immediately improved. The discrepancy between Rh-D phenotyping and genotyping was likely caused by masking of the D-epitopes by the autoantibodies. In fact, further enquiry revealed that the patient had been phenotyped as Rh(D)-positive 6 months ago and had been transfused at that time following hip surgery. Conclusion: The phenomena of transfusion-induced autoantibodies, masked alloantibodies, antigen blockage and/or loss are rare but important features which should be considered in patients presenting with autoimmune hemolytic anemia and/or hemolytic transfusion reactions.
Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms and Aging: The Impact of Chronic Bladder Ischemia on Overactive Bladder Syndrome
Authors: Camões João , Coelho Ana , Castro-Diaz David , Cruz Francisco
Published: October 2015

Introduction: The overactive bladder syndrome (OAB) is one of the most common and bothersome subsets of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), affecting predominantly the aged population, with a worldwide distribution. This syndrome has not been completely understood, yet the aging process and the decreased blood flow to the bladder have been highlighted as closely related to this phenomenon. Materials and Methods: We performed a search on the online database PubMed/MEDLINE with the following MESH terms: ‘Overactive Bladder AND (Ischemia OR Aging OR Vascular Disease)'. We considered manuscripts written in English and published in the last 10 years (2004-2014, October). Additional manuscripts, such as referenced by reviews, were further included. Results: The aging process and the structural and functional changes resulting from an ischemic process emerge as important features that contribute to OAB. The ischemic-induced molecular and structural modifications that occur in the bladder have only recently been the objective of thorough studies, which link cardiovascular risk factors, vascular lesions and OAB. New animal models are being created to test new areas of treatment or prevention of ischemic-induced bladder dysfunction. Conclusion: Recent data point out that several physiological and pathological modifications that occur in the bladder associated with OAB and aging are closely related to ischemia.
Bimodal Hearing Aid Retention after Unilateral Cochlear Implantation
Authors: Devocht Elke M.J. , George Erwin L.J. , Janssen A. Miranda L. , Stokroos Robert J.
Published: October 2015

The goal of this study was to investigate contralateral hearing aid (HA) use after unilateral cochlear implantation and to identify factors of influence on the occurrence of a unilateral cochlear implant (CI) recipient becoming a bimodal user. A retrospective cross-sectional chart review was carried out among 77 adult unilateral CI recipients 1 year after implantation. A bimodal HA retention rate of 64% was observed. Associations with demographics, hearing history, residual hearing and speech recognition ability were investigated. Better pure-tone thresholds and unaided speech scores in the non-implanted ear, as well as a smaller difference in speech recognition scores between both ears, were significantly associated with HA retention. A combined model of HA retention was proposed, and cut-off points were determined to identify those CI recipients who were most likely to become bimodal users. These results can provide input to clinical guidelines concerning bimodal CI candidacy.
Clinical Significance of Neoadjuvant Combined Androgen Blockade for More Than Six Months in Patients with Localized Prostate Cancer Treated with Prostate Brachytherapy
Authors: Senzaki Tomokazu , Fukumori Tomoharu , Mori Hidehisa , Kusuhara Yoshito , Komori Masatsugu , Kagawa Junichiro , Fukawa Tomoya , Yamamoto Yasuyo , Yamaguchi Kunihisa , Takahashi Masayuki , Kubo Akiko , Kawanaka Takashi , Furutani Shunsuke , Ikushima Hitoshi , Kanayama Hiro-omi
Published: October 2015

Introduction: The aim of this study is to clarify the clinical significance of neoadjuvant combined androgen blockade (CAB) for ≥6 months in patients with localized prostate cancer. Patients and Methods: A total of 431 patients with localized prostate cancer who underwent prostate brachytherapy (BT) with or without neoadjuvant CAB for ≥6 months with mean follow-up time of 64.6 months (range 24-108 months) were evaluated retrospectively. Of those 431, 232 patients received BT in combination with neoadjuvant CAB for ≥6 months. Biochemical recurrence-free rates (BRFRs) in 364 patients with at least 3 years of follow-up were evaluated by log-rank test. Results: BRFR in patients with low-, intermediate- and high-risk prostate cancer were 98.1, 94.2 and 89.1%, respectively. In patients with intermediate-risk prostate cancer only, neoadjuvant CAB was significantly associated with BRFR (p = 0.0468). Especially in patients with intermediate-risk prostate cancer with radiation dose received by 90% of the prostate (D90) <180 Gy, neoadjuvant CAB exerted a favorable impact on BRFR (p = 0.0429). On multivariate analyses, neoadjuvant CAB and D90 were independent predictors of BRFR (p = 0.0061 and p < 0.0001, respectively). Conclusions: Neoadjuvant CAB for ≥6 months has a favorable impact on BRFR in patients with intermediate-risk prostate cancer, particularly in patients with relatively low radiation doses of D90.
A Comparative Study of Oral Health Parameters in Molar Incisor Hypomineralization and High-Caries-Risk Children Aged 8-11 Years
Authors: Ulusoy Ayca Tuba , Sen Tunc Emine , Bayrak Şule , Onder Hasan
Published: October 2015

Objective: To compare oral health parameters: decayed missing filled teeth (dmft, DMFT), gingival index and plaque index in high-caries-risk children and children with molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH). Subjects and Methods: A study group of 81 children affected by MIH (49 girls, 32 boys) aged 8-11 years (mean 9.4 ± 1.1) was race-, age- and sex-matched with 81 high-caries-risk children not affected by MIH (controls). The MIH and control groups were divided into four subgroups according to age. The oral health parameters of both groups were recorded under clinical conditions. Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to compare the differences in the number of MIH-affected teeth between the groups. Other traits were evaluated with the ANOVA test, and Duncan's multiple comparison tests were used for comparing means. Linear and ordinal regression analyses were used to model the variables. Results: The mean age of the participants was 9.4 ± 1.1 years, and the mean number of affected teeth was 7.7 (range 3-12) in the MIH group. The number of affected teeth and severity of MIH did not change significantly with age and sex (p > 0.05). A comparison of the oral health parameters of MIH-affected and control children according to groups did not show any statistically significant differences between the groups for all parameters for all groups (p > 0.05) with the exception of DMFT values at 10 years of age (p < 0.05). In a comparison of the total scores without taking age into account, the children with MIH showed a significantly higher DMFT value than the children without MIH (p < 0.05), but there were no significant differences between the dmft, GI and PI values of the study groups (p > 0.05). Conclusion: The children in the MIH group had higher DMFT than those without MIH. Hence, the presence of MIH could have a detrimental effect on oral health parameters, especially on DMFT values.
Monitoring the Normal Body: Ideals and Practices among Normal-Weight and Moderately Overweight People
Authors: Nissen Nina Konstantin , Holm Lotte , Baarts Charlotte
Published: October 2015

Introduction: An extensive body of literature is concerned with obese people, risk, and weight management. However, little is known about weight management among people not belonging to the extreme BMI categories. Management of weight among normal-weight and moderately overweight individuals provides us with knowledge about how to prevent future overweight or obesity. This paper investigates body size ideals and monitoring practices among normal-weight and moderately overweight people. Methods: The study is based on in-depth interviews combined with observations. 24 participants were recruited by strategic sampling based on self-reported BMI 18.5-29.9 kg/m2 and socio-demographic factors. Inductive analysis was conducted. Results: Normal-weight and moderately overweight people have clear ideals for their body size. Despite being normal weight or close to this, they construct a variety of practices for monitoring their bodies based on different kinds of calculations of weight and body size, observations of body shape, and measurements of bodily firmness. Biometric measurements are familiar to them as are health authorities' recommendations. Despite not belonging to an extreme BMI category, they translate such measurements and recommendations in meaningful ways to fit their everyday life. Conclusions: Normal-weight and moderately overweight people are concerned with their body size and continuously monitor it. Future health promotion work should consider the kind of practices already established in daily life when recommending ways of conducting body management.
Sex Disparities in Post-Acute Myocardial Infarction Pharmacologic Treatment Initiation and Adherence
Authors: Smolina Kate , Ball Laura , Humphries Karin H. , Khan Nadia , Morgan Steven G.
Published: October 2015

Background—

The prevalence of the use of secondary prevention cardiovascular medications is lower among women than men, but it is unclear if this is a result of lower treatment initiation among women or lower treatment adherence. We aimed to map the treatment pathway for survivors of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) by sex and age.

Methods and Results—

This retrospective population-based cohort study used linked administrative data sets in British Columbia (2004–2011), which include health care, prescription drugs, sociodemographic, and mortality information. The study cohort included all individuals admitted to hospital for AMI in 2007–2009 and survived for 1 year after hospital discharge. Patients were evaluated for whether they initiated and then subsequently filled prescriptions angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, β-blockers, and statins. More than two thirds of AMI survivors initiated treatment on all appropriate medications, given their contraindications, within 2 months of discharge. Younger men were significantly more likely than younger women to initiate appropriate treatment (adjusted odds ratio, 1.38; 95% confidence interval, 1.10–1.75). By the end of 1 year after discharge, only one third of all AMI survivors filled all appropriate prescriptions for at least 80% of the year. There was no significant difference in adherence to medication therapy between women and men.

Conclusions—

The majority of AMI survivors either discontinue treatment or do not refill their prescriptions consistently. Women <55 years are significantly less likely to be on optimal therapy by the end of 1 year after discharge, which is driven by a sex disparity in treatment initiation and not treatment adherence.
Rooms in Alibi: How Akasegawa Genpei Framed Capitalist Reality
Authors: Faris Jaimey Hamilton
Published: October 2015

In 1963 and 1964, Japanese artist Akasegawa Genpei was working on two related series of objects he called “model” 1,000 Yen-notes and “model” wrapped objects. As he established in his 1964 “Thesis of ‘Capitalist Realism,'” he made these “models” as a method of exposing the contingent legitimacy that mass-produced currency and commodities had as “real things.” This article focuses its analysis on Akasegawa's wrapped furniture installation for Room in Alibi (1963) as a complex demonstration of the ways in which the model could “frame” capitalism's emerging consumer lifestyle object systems. As such, his models can be seen as part of a larger discursive engagement with questions about domestic reality emerging at the conjunction of Neo-Dada, Pop, Nouveau Réalisme, happenings, and Fluxus in 1963–64. They ran parallel to other experimental models, scores, games, instructions, and demonstrations, which often, and surprisingly consistently, also used domestic furniture and objects (such as Gerhard Richter and Konrad Lueg's use of model living room sets in Living with Pop—A Demonstration for Capitalist Realism).
Foreign Bodies: Sophocles Antigone 1080-1083
Authors: Brown Andrew
Published: October 2015

The article seeks to place Wunder’s deletion of Antigone 1080-1083 beyond reasonable doubt. The standard interpretation of the lines makes them intrusive both in their immediate context and in the play as a whole: we find that a ruling which Creon has not issued has led to pollution which does not make sense at cities which do not exist, provoking them to hatred which Creon will ignore and which will have no effect within the play or beyond it. An alternative interpretation, taking the lines as a generalisation, is no more successful, and the lines themselves are poorly written. An appendix discusses other possible interpolations in the speeches of Tiresias, concluding that lines 1004, 1013 and 1079 are probable instances.
Social Media Data and the Dynamics of Thai Protests
Authors: Nyblade Benjamin , O’Mahony Angela , Sinpeng Aim
Published: October 2015

Traditional techniques used to study political engagement—interviews, ethnographic research, surveys—rely on collection of data at a single or a few points in time and/or from a small sample of political actors. They lead to a tendency in the literature to focus on “snapshots” of political engagement (as in the analysis of a single survey) or draw from a very limited set of sources (as in most small group ethnographic work and interviewing). Studying political engagement through analysis of social media data allows scholars to better understand the political engagement of millions of people by examining individuals’ views on politics in their own voices. While social media analysis has important limitations, it provides the opportunity to see detailed “video” of political engagement over time that provides an important complement to traditional methods. We illustrate this point by drawing on social media data analysis of the protests and election in Thailand from October 2013 through February 2014.
COI-based barcoding of Chinese vipers (Reptilia: Squamata: Viperidae)
Authors: Liu Qin , Zhu Fei , Zhong Guanghui , Wang Yunyu , Fang Min , Xiao Rong , Cai Yansen , Guo Peng
Published: October 2015

DNA barcoding seeks to assemble a standardized reference library for rapid and unambiguous identification of species, and can be used to screen for potentially cryptic species. The 5′ region of cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI), which is a mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) gene fragment, has been proposed as a universal marker for this purpose among animals. However, DNA barcoding of reptiles is still supported only by few datasets compared with other groups. We investigated the utilization of COI to discriminate 34 putative species of vipers, representing almost 92% of the recorded species in China. Based on a total of 241 sequences, our results indicated that the average degree of intraspecific variability (0.0198) tends to be one-sixth the average of interspecific divergence (0.0931), but no barcoding gap was detected between them. The threshold method, BLOG analyses and tree-based methods all can identify species with a high success rate. These results consistently suggested the usefulness and reliability of the DNA barcoding approach in Chinese vipers.
Description of Bursaphelenchus piceae sp. n. (Nematoda: Parasitaphelenchinae) from larval galleries of the six-toothed spruce bark beetle, Pityogenes chalcographus (L.) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae), in Norway spruce, Picea abies (L.) Karsten
Authors: Tomalak Marek , Pomorski Jan J.
Published: October 2015

Bursaphelenchus piceae sp. n. is described from the bark of Norway spruce, Picea abies. Adults and propagative juveniles of the nematode are found in larval galleries of the six-toothed spruce bark beetle, Pityogenes chalcographus, while its dauer juveniles aggregate in Malpighian tubules of older larvae, pupae and adult beetles. The new species is characterised by the body length of 719 (530-945) μm in female and 632 (474-808) μm in male, its moderately slender body (a = 41.4 (35.4-50.2) and 42.6 (35.1-47.2) in female and male, respectively), and small spicules (16.0 (14.0-18.3) μm along arc and 13.7 (12.2-15.5) μm along chord). The extended anterior vulval lip in female, lateral fields with four incisures, long post-uterine sac extending for 67-91% of vulva-anus distance, and number (7) and arrangement of male caudal papillae suggest that B. piceae sp. n. is closely related to the xylophilus-group yet it differs by the relatively small, claw-like spicules with no cucullus at the tip. The close relation of B. piceae sp. n. to the xylophilus-group has been confirmed by DNA sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. Morphologically B. piceae sp. n. most closely resembles B. tokyoensis and B. fagi but can be separated from both by the unique shape of the spicules. The taxonomic separation of the new species is also confirmed by the unique molecular profile of the ITS region (ITS-RFLP). The presence of dauer juveniles of B. piceae sp. n. in Malpighian tubules of adult P. chalcographus may lead to extensive damage to this organ as shown by local expansion of the tubule basement membrane and degradation of its cellular epithelium. Detailed phylogenetic analysis revealed that B. piceae sp. n. together with five other bark beetle-associated Bursaphelenchus species, namely B. trypophloei, B. masseyi, B. tiliae, B. tokyoensis and B. fagi, constitutes a small phylogenetic clade that is most closely located to, but separate from, the xylophilus-group.
Life as Heroic Effort: Merab Mamardashvili’s Psychological Topology of the Way
Authors: Leontiev Dmitry
Published: October 2015

The object of the reflections proposed in this paper is Merab Mamardashvili’s system of thought explicated in two books: Lectures on Proust (1995) and Psychological topology of the way (1997). Both books are transcripts of lecture courses read in 1982 and 1984/85. They are devoted to the same subject and have multiple overlaps; however, they are textually quite different. The second text presents a somewhat later version of Mamardashvili’s attempts to treat the same issues in a more elaborate form. Mamardashvili’s ideas, especially ideas and views of the last decade of his life, are extremely difficult to summarize. To extract definitions from his texts is equally impossible. Nevertheless, such an attempt is made in this paper.
A new hybrid and further taxonomic notes on Brazilian tree ferns (Cyatheaceae)
Authors: Schwartsburd Pedro Bond , Becari-Viana Ivan , Lopes Lucas Da Rocha , Lehnert Marcus
Published: October 2015

We here describe a new hybrid within the Cyathea corcovadensis-complex: C. ×stella-matutina (C. corcovadensis s. str. × C. microdonta). We also characterize another two Cyatheaceae species from Brazil: C. mexiae (≡ Trichipteris gardneri), which has been long overlooked, and Alsophila salvinii, an Andine species recently discovered in Brazil. We provide descriptions, illustrations and comments for the three taxa. We also provide a key to the C. corcovadensis-complex, an updated key to species of Alsophila from Brazil, one lectotypification, and anatomical section images of the pinnule articulations of C. ×stella-matutina and its putative parents.
Clarification of type material for Bornean species of the genus Osteochilus (Cyprinidae)
Authors: MCMAHAN CALEB D.
Published: October 2015

Two species and one subspecies of the genus Osteochilus (Cypriniformes: Cyprinidae) were described from Borneo in a revision of the group by Karnasuta in 1993. Examination of type material has illuminated points of conflict regarding some of the type specimens listed in original descriptions. Based on archived correspondence and the author’s original thesis, we were able to determine the disposition of specimens and revise collection information for type material accordingly.
Two new Phrynobatrachus species (Amphibia: Anura: Phrynobatrachidae) from the Republic of the Congo
Authors: RÖDEL MARK-OLIVER , BURGER MARIUS , ZASSI-BOULOU ANGE GHISLAIN , EMMRICH MIKE , PENNER JOHANNES , BAREJ MICHAEL F.
Published: October 2015

We describe two new species of puddle frogs, genus Phrynobatrachus, from the south-western Republic of the Congo. One of them, P. horsti sp. nov., occurs also in neighbouring Gabon and is morphologically most similar to the Cameroonian P. ruthbeateae. It differs from the latter species by smaller males with longer thighs and shanks. The new species comprises various colour morphs but always has less conspicuous black borders between flanks and belly than P. ruthbeateae. The distinct and large black axillary blotch of P. ruthbeateae is either much smaller in P. horsti sp. nov., or broken into numerous irregularly shaped smaller dots. Similarly, a black transversal line at the anterior ventral border of thighs and the black face mask is less distinct and irregularly delimitated in P. horsti sp. nov. when compared to P. ruthbeateae. The mean genetic difference in the sampled region of the 16S rRNA gene between P. horsti sp. nov. and 40 other western African congeners range from 3.66-18.10%. The second new species, P. mayokoensis sp. nov., differs from all other known congeners by the combination of a compact and warty body, the absence of a spiny eyelid tubercle and pedal webbing, a conspicuous black triangle on throat and anterior part of the belly, and a distinct large red blotch on the anterior-proximal surface of the thighs. It exhibited a mean genetic difference in the 16S rRNA to 40 other western African congeners ranging from 1.34-16.98%. The genetically most similar sequence stems from a GenBank entry of a Gabonese frog, determined as P. ogoensis. A comparison of the new species with P. ogoensis syntypes confirmed their specific distinctiveness, most convincingly underlined by the absence of pedal webbing in the new species and the pronounced pedal webbing in P. ogoensis. The GenBank entry thus most likely is based on a misidentification and P. mayokoensis sp. nov. may also occur in neighbouring Gabon. The discovery of the two new frog species is further evidence of the huge gap in our knowledge concerning the species richness in the Guineo-Congolian rainforests.
CalWater Field Studies Designed to Quantify the Roles of Atmospheric Rivers and Aerosols in Modulating U.S. West Coast Precipitation in a Changing Climate
Authors: Ralph F. M. , Prather K. A. , Cayan D. , Spackman J. R. , DeMott P. , Dettinger M. , Fairall C. , Leung R. , Rosenfeld D. , Rutledge S. , Waliser D. , White A. B. , Cordeira J. , Martin A. , Helly J. , Intrieri J.
Published: October 2015

The variability of precipitation and water supply along the U.S. West Coast creates major challenges to the region’s economy and environment, as evidenced by the recent California drought. This variability is strongly influenced by atmospheric rivers (ARs), which deliver much of the precipitation along the U.S. West Coast and can cause flooding, and by aerosols (from local sources and transported from remote continents and oceans) that modulate clouds and precipitation. A better understanding of these processes is needed to reduce uncertainties in weather predictions and climate projections of droughts and floods, both now and under changing climate conditions.

To address these gaps, a group of meteorologists, hydrologists, climate scientists, atmospheric chemists, and oceanographers have created an interdisciplinary research effort, with support from multiple agencies. From 2009 to 2011 a series of field campaigns [California Water Service (CalWater) 1] collected atmospheric chemistry, cloud microphysics, and meteorological measurements in California and associated modeling and diagnostic studies were carried out. Based on the remaining gaps, a vision was developed to extend these studies offshore over the eastern North Pacific and to enhance land-based measurements from 2014 to 2018 (CalWater-2). The dataset and selected results from CalWater-1 are summarized here. The goals of CalWater-2, and measurements to date, are then described.

CalWater is producing new findings and exploring new technologies to evaluate and improve global climate models and their regional performance and to develop tools supporting water and hydropower management. These advances also have potential to enhance hazard mitigation by improving near-term weather prediction and subseasonal and seasonal outlooks.
The Threat to Weather Radars by Wireless Technology
Authors: Saltikoff Elena , Cho John Y. N. , Tristant Philippe , Huuskonen Asko , Allmon Lynn , Cook Russell , Becker Erik , Joe Paul
Published: October 2015

Wireless technology, such as local area telecommunication networks and surveillance cameras, causes severe interference for weather radars because they use the same operational radio frequencies. One or two disturbances can be removed from the radar image, but the number and power of the interfering wireless devices are growing all over the world, threatening that one day the radars could become useless for weather observations. Some agencies have already changed or are considering changing frequency bands, but now even other bands are under threat.

Use of equipment at radio frequencies is regulated by laws and international agreements. Technologies have been developed for peaceful coexistence. If wireless devices use these technologies to protect weather radars, their data transmission capabilities become limited, so it is tempting to violate the regulations. Hence, it is an important task for the worldwide weather community to involve themselves in the radio frequency management process and work in close contact with their national radio authorities to ensure that meteorological interests be duly taken into account in any decision-making process toward the future usage of wireless devices.
The Effect of the Balcones Escarpment on Three Cases of Extreme Precipitation in Central Texas
Authors: Nielsen Erik R. , Schumacher Russ S. , Keclik Alexandra M.
Published: October 2015

The proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and local topography makes central Texas particularly prone to heavy precipitation and deadly flood events. Specifically, the Balcones Escarpment, located in central Texas, creates extremely favorable hydrologic characteristics for damaging floods. Urban centers such as San Antonio and Austin, Texas, are located along this terrain feature and have suffered at times, even with mitigation strategies, catastrophic flood damage. While the hydrologic effects of the Balcones Escarpment are well known, the meteorological impacts are uncertain. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of the Balcones Escarpment in three cases of extreme precipitation in which the rainfall was maximized near the escarpment. Numerical simulations for each event were run at convection-allowing grid spacing using the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model and were used as control runs. Then, the Balcones Escarpment was removed by moving the associated terrain gradient to the north and west. The removal of the Balcones Escarpment did not change the overall characteristics of any of the three rainfall events, with the spatial pattern and magnitude of precipitation similar between the control and terrain-modified simulations. However, the location of the maximum precipitation was slightly, but consistently, shifted to the north and west. These results show that the overall atmospheric conditions are much more important for determining the intensity and occurrence of extreme rainfall in central Texas than the local topography, but the Balcones Escarpment can cause subtle hydrologically important changes in the location of the maximum accumulation.
Placing Sin in Karl Rahner’s Theology
Authors: Fritz Peter J.
Published: October 2015

Karl Rahner is seldom viewed as a theologian of sin: precisely the contrary. A recent book by Emmie Ho-Tsui (published in Austria, 2011) reopens the question of sin’s place in Rahner’s works. This article reports on Ho-Tsui’s book and carries her inquiry forward, with special focus on Rahner’s studies on penance and with a renewed look at his idea of the fundamental option. Rahner recovers the ancient idea of penance as reconciliation with the church, implying that sin can be best understood in terms of the break from and return to ecclesial communion. Rahner’s insistence that human persons can pronounce a definitive ‘no’ to God affirms sin’s reality, thus the need for ecclesial reconciliation. Taken together, his penance studies and thoughts on the fundamental option comprise an agenda for articulating the radical mercy that the church is called to—but often does not—enact.
Is God’s Charity Broad Enough for Bears?
Authors: Johnson Elizabeth A.
Published: October 2015

After citing reasons why creation has slipped from view in the ordinary practice of Christian faith, this essay explores the love of God for the earth. How can we think about this charity in such a way that it becomes a compelling element of faith with practical and ethical consequences, rather than an afterthought? Originally delivered as the Michael Devlin lecture at St. Patrick’s College, Maynooth, in 2015.
A Case of Diplomatic Symbiosis: France, Israel and the Former French Colonies in Africa, 1958–62
Authors: Heimann Gadi
Published: October 2015

This article deals with the interesting three-way relationship between Israel, France, and the former French colonies in Africa located south of the Sahara during the years 1958–62. The main argument of the paper is that in French Africa Israel and France maintained a sort of symbiosis: by seeking its own self-interest, each side fulfilled a vital function for the other. France showed great patience with Israel’s attempts to penetrate its former colonies, more so than vis-a-vis any other countries. From Israel’s standpoint this was a great opportunity, since it granted Israel a kind of exclusivity over supplementing French aid in its former colonies: France removed possible competition and made the assistance that Israel could offer even more attractive to the Africans. For its part, Israel saw itself as being required, almost without exception, to obtain France’s consent of undertakings that it initiated in the African states. Therefore, if it was decreed that the new states in Africa were to receive assistance from other countries, then Israel was a convenient default, since it, more than any other country, showed sensitivity to the French interests there.
Variable selective control for networked systems: A switched quadratic Lyapunov functional approach
Authors: Rahmani Behrooz
Published: October 2015

This paper presents a new method for control of linear networked systems by combining the predictive control and the variable sampling period approaches. In this way, event-driven sensors are implemented, i.e. by construction the sensors are triggered to sample the outputs of the plant, when new control input signals are received by the actuators. In light of this formulation, at each sampling instant, total control loop delay will be equal to the sampling period which is unknown. In order to deal with the network effects associated with a range of pre-specified time delays, appropriate step invariant discrete-time models of the networked plant are calculated offline. Based on these, some stabilizing control signals are constructed online. The control signals are then packed in the control-side packet, transmitted back to the plant side and received by a time delay compensator module. A less conservative class of Lyapunov functions, called switched quadratic Lyapunov, is used here for stability analysis and stabilizing controller design. Simulation studies on well-known benchmark problems demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Resisting devaluation: Foreclosure, eminent domain law, and the geographical political economy of risk
Authors: Christophers Brett , Niedt Christopher
Published: October 2015

This article examines recent plans for US municipalities to use the state legal power of eminent domain to forcibly acquire “underwater” mortgages (i.e. those with negative equity), and to refinance them on terms more favorable to the homeowners in question, as a way of addressing in a socially progressive way the nation’s ongoing foreclosure crisis. The article makes three main arguments. The first is that insofar as the plan threatens to disrupt prevailing norms of value distribution and risk bearing, it represents a fundamental challenge to the existing political economy of urban financial capitalism in the US and the law’s mediation thereof. The second is that value, risk, and their mediation through law must be understood in the context of geographical unevenness and shifting scales of legal governance. The third is that the geographical political economy associated with the eminent domain plan is about discourses—of risk, of markets, and indeed of law per se—no less than materialities; and that the two are indelibly linked, with discourses having material effects when, through law, they structure value and risk for the manifold actors who operate within the sphere of housing finance.
Control of a hydraulic regenerative braking system for a heavy goods vehicle
Authors: Midgley William JB , Cebon D.
Published: October 2015

This paper investigates the fuel consumption of an articulated vehicle with a hydraulic regenerative braking system. The vehicle is a four-axle tractor–semitrailer with a volume-limited payload. It is equipped with hub-mounted hydraulic pump–motor units that pump fluid from a low-pressure reservoir to a high-pressure reservoir during braking events and generate a propulsive torque when high-pressure fluid flows through them to the low-pressure reservoir during acceleration. Several possible control strategies are proposed and simulated using a validated mathematical model of the fuel consumption of the vehicle. A global optimisation calculation indicates that the maximum possible reduction in fuel consumption due to the regenerative braking system is 11–22%, depending on the driving cycle. The simulations indicate that the simple ‘greedy’ algorithm decreases the fuel consumption by 9–17% for the same conditions. Two heuristic algorithms and a model predictive control approach were also investigated. Although these more sophisticated controllers were able to improve on the greedy controller slightly for some conditions, they may not be implementable in practice.
Sexually transmitted infection diagnoses among Hispanic immigrant and migrant men who have sex with men in the United States
Authors: Valverde Eduardo E , DiNenno Elizabeth A , Schulden Jeffrey D , Oster Alexandra , Painter Thomas
Published: October 2015

Hispanic immigrant/migrant men who have sex with men (MSM) should be at higher risk for sexually transmitted infections/human immunodeficiency virus (STIs/HIV) given individual-level factors associated with the migration process that have been theorised to increase susceptibility to STIs/HIV among migrant populations. However, relatively little is known if these individual level factors are actually associated with the STI prevalence among this population. During 2005–2007, 2576 men and women foreign-born Hispanics were surveyed at three community-based organisations offering services to immigrant/migrant communities in the US. We analysed demographic characteristics, sexual risk behaviours, migration patterns, and factors associated with STI diagnoses (syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhoea) in the past 12 months among Hispanic immigrant/migrant MSM. Of 1482 Hispanic immigrant/migrant men surveyed who reported having sex in the past 12 months, 353 (24%) reported sex with a man, and of these, 302 answered questions regarding whether or not they had been diagnosed with a bacterial STI in the past year. Of these 302 men, 25% reported being married; 42% self-identified as being heterosexual and 20% as bisexual. Twenty-nine (9.6%) men reported that they had received an STI diagnosis in the past year. In the multivariate logistic regression model, men who reported receiving money or goods for sex had increased odds of a self-reported STI diagnosis. The prevalence of bacterial STIs among Hispanic immigrant/migrant MSM is lower than the prevalence of bacterial STIs among other MSM in the United States. Nevertheless, receiving money or goods for sex was significantly associated with a self-reported STI diagnosis among Hispanic immigrant/migrant MSM. It is important to understand factors contributing to participation in exchange sex among this population. HIV/STI prevention interventions tailored to non-gay identifying MSM are important for Hispanic immigrant/migrant MSM.
Abortion in a Mediterranean miniature donkey (Equus asinus) associated with a gammaherpesvirus similar to Equid herpesvirus 7
Authors: LeCuyer Tessa E. , Rink Anette , Bradway Daniel S. , Evermann James F. , Nicola Anthony V. , Baszler Timothy , Haldorson Gary J.
Published: October 2015

Fetal tissues and placenta from a third trimester Mediterranean miniature donkey ( Equus asinus) abortion were submitted to the Washington State University, Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory for abortion diagnosis. Microscopic examination of formalin-fixed tissues revealed multifocal necrotizing placentitis. Several cells within the necrotic foci contained large, eosinophilic, intranuclear inclusions. Virus isolation from fresh, frozen placenta identified a cytopathic, syncytia-forming virus. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) from the cultured virus using degenerate universal herpesvirus primers amplified a 699–base pair portion of the DNA polymerase gene. The PCR amplicon had 96.7% nucleotide identity with the DNA polymerase gene of Equid herpesvirus 7 (EHV-7; asinine herpesvirus 2), a gammaherpesvirus. An identical sequence was obtained when the same degenerate herpesvirus primers were used for PCR on the formalin-fixed placenta. Additionally, the amplicon had complete identity with short sequences of asinine herpesviruses that have been published in association with interstitial pneumonia in donkeys. EHV-7 has previously been isolated from nasal secretions of normal donkeys and mules. Our report describes a case of abortion associated with EHV-7 or a similar virus.
Assessing Barriers to the Use of Fall Protection in Small Residential Construction Companies in New Jersey
Authors: Borjan Marija , Patel Toral , Lefkowitz Daniel , Campbell Carla , Lumia Margaret
Published: October 2015

Three focus groups were conducted with residential construction workers from local New Jersey labor organizations to characterize barriers to fall protection use among residential construction contractors who work for companies with fewer than ten employees. Thirty-six residential construction workers volunteered to participate, the average age was thirty-nine years, and twenty-four (67%) were of Hispanic origin. Twelve (33%) of the participants reported having fallen from greater than 6 ft at work and twenty (56%) of the participants had known someone who has fallen from greater than 6 ft. Sixteen (44%) had not been provided with fall protection equipment by their employer and eighteen (50%) reported their current employer had not provided workplace safety training. Factors that created barriers to use of fall protection equipment such as equipment availability, employee/employer relationships, cultural differences, and company size were identified. Results from this study confirm that falls remain a concern among residential construction workers in small companies.
The Extractive Industries
Authors: Roelofs Cora
Published: October 2015

The extractive industries play a central role in determining the social determinants of global health yet may not be a core subject of global health studies. This article describes how an undergraduate seminar in global health takes on questions and examples related to the “causes of causes” and challenges instructors to find a place for discussion of extraction of wealth, development, and health in their curricula.
Long-Term Association Between Developmental Assets and Health Behaviors
Authors: Bleck Jennifer , DeBate Rita
Published: October 2015

Introduction. Based on internal and external assets, the positive youth development approach aims to increase the capacity among adolescents to overcome challenges as they transition to adulthood. Developmental assets have been found to be positively associated with academic achievement, a variety of health promoting behaviors, and improved physical and mental health. The purpose of this exploratory study was to assess the long-term association between positive youth developmental assets with health risk and promoting behaviors. Method. A continuous scale of developmental assets was created using 30 items from Wave I of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health, when participants were in 7th to 12th grades. Health behavior outcomes including cigarette use, substance use, fast food consumption, and physical activity were measured at both Wave III (age 18-26) and Wave IV (age 24-32). Path analysis was employed to assess the relationship between these observed measures. Results. The well-fitted path model revealed associations between developmental assets with each health behavior at Wave III. Developmental assets indirectly influenced each health behavior and direct associations were observed between assets with substance use and physical activity at Wave IV. Conclusion. Findings provide additional support for the developmental assets approach to adolescent health. Implications include Healthy People 2020 objectives related to tobacco and alcohol use and nutrition and physical activity.
Too Late for Thinking: The Curious Quest for Emancipatory Potential in Meaningless Affect and Some Jurisprudential Implications
Authors: Sherwin Richard K.
Published: October 2015

The “affective turn” presents a number of important challenges to law and the humanities. One such challenge concerns our ability to resist the temptation to romanticize the inhuman. Theorists from Nietzsche to Massumi have been so taken by the emancipatory promise of affective intensity that they risk relinquishing responsibility for freedom’s necessary social, political, and legal pre-conditions. Our responsibility for narrative construction and narrative choice carries with it an ethical imperative to understand the orchestration of affect. Downplaying the importance of reflective consciousness (including our capacity for prudent judgment) in favor of spontaneous affective events threatens to rob freedom of its meaning and open democratic societies to grave risks.
A Case of Severe Unicuspid Aortic Valve Stenosis
Authors: Tokue Masahide , Hara Hidehiko , Sahara Naohiko , Yamazaki Kenji , Yamashita Hiromasa , Takahashi Kei , Ozaki Shigeyuki , Sugi Kaoru , Nakamura Masato
Published: October 2015

A 33-year-old male was referred to our institute with acute heart failure. The patient was found to have a unicuspid aortic valve (UAV) and severe aortic stenosis. He had been followed at a local university hospital during childhood. However, he stopped visiting the outpatient clinic after becoming an adult. His condition subsequently worsened, and he ultimately presented to our hospital with cardiogenic shock. In Japan, some adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) patients continue to be followed by pediatric cardiologists, though the patterns of practice are variable. This report describes the case of a patient who became lost to follow-up in early adulthood. We thus focus on this ACHD case as an example of the effects of inadequate communication among doctors and the need to establish better ACHD management protocols for treating this patient population.
Thrombotic Obstruction of a Melody Valve-in-Valve Used for Prosthetic Tricuspid Stenosis
Authors: Reddy Yogesh N. V. , Connolly Heidi M. , Ammash Naser M.
Published: October 2015

The percutaneous Melody valve is occasionally used for the treatment of bioprosthetic valve dysfunction and is an attractive option for patients at high risk for repeat operation. Anticoagulation is not routinely recommended following Melody valve placement. We present the case of a young woman who developed subacute spontaneous thrombosis of her Melody valve 15 months after placement. Her clinical status was compromised by severe tricuspid prosthesis stenosis and right-to-left shunting across a small residual atrial septal defect. Surgical replacement was required. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of spontaneous thrombosis of a Melody valve in the tricuspid position.