bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CA 19-9 as a Marker of Survival and a Predictor of Metastization in Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Coelho Rosa , Silva Marco , Rodrigues-Pinto Eduardo , Cardoso Hélder , Lopes Susana , Pereira Pedro , Vilas-Boas Filipe , Santos-Antunes João , Costa-Maia José , Macedo Guilherme
Published: March 2017

Background: Cholangiocarcinoma is the second most frequent primitive liver malignancy and is responsible for 3% of the malignant gastrointestinal neoplasms. The aims of this study were to determine the association of serum levels of CA 19-9 at diagnosis with other clinical data and serum liver function tests and to identify possible factors that influence the survival rates during follow-up. Methods: Retrospective observational study of 89 patients with a diagnosis of cholangiocarcinoma followed at the Department of Gastroenterology during 5 years. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 20.0. Results: Patients were followed up for a median time of 127 days (IQR: 48-564), and the median age at diagnosis was 71.0 years (IQR: 62.0-77.5). The median survival rate was 14.0 months (IQR: 4.3-23.7), and the mortality rate was 79%. Patients with CA 19-9 levels ≥103 U/L had lower albumin levels and higher levels of alanine aminotransferase and γ-glutamyltransferase. CA 19-9 levels ≥103 U/L were associated with a higher probability of metastization (p = 0.001) and lower rates of treatment with curative intent (p = 0.024). In a multivariate analysis, CA 19-9 levels <103 U/L and surgery were independent predictors of survival. Conclusion: Predictive factors for overall survival were identified, namely presence of metastasis, surgery, and chemotherapy. CA 19-9 levels ≥103 U/L were predictive factors for survival and metastization.
Endoscopic Management of Colonic Perforation due to Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Alves Ana Rita , Mendes Sofia , Lopes Sandra , Monteiro Alexandre , Perdigoto David , Amaro Pedro , Tomé Luís
Published: March 2017

The authors report the case of a 41-year-old woman with a colonic perforation due to a ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) catheter. Left-sided colonic perforation was diagnosed by abdominal computed tomography 28 years after shunt placement, following acute meningitis caused by Escherichia coli. The proximal end of the VPS was exteriorized and it was decided to remove the distal end by colonoscopy. After pulling out the catheter with a polypectomy snare, it broke at the site where it was entering the colon, leaving a small perforation in the colonic wall which was closed with 2 endoclips. The endoluminal fragment of the catheter, being 20 cm in length, was removed through the rectum. The patient is asymptomatic at the 12-month follow-up. A review of the literature regarding 9 endoscopically managed cases of digestive tract perforation caused by VPS is presented.
Application of a Parallelizable Perfusion Bioreactor for Physiologic 3D Cell Culture
Authors: Egger Dominik , Spitz Sarah , Fischer Monica , Handschuh Stephan , Glösmann Martin , Friemert Benedikt , Egerbacher Monika , Kasper Cornelia
Published: March 2017

It is crucial but challenging to keep physiologic conditions during the cultivation of 3D cell scaffold constructs for the optimization of 3D cell culture processes. Therefore, we demonstrate the benefits of a recently developed miniaturized perfusion bioreactor together with a specialized incubator system that allows for the cultivation of multiple samples while screening different conditions. Hence, a decellularized bone matrix was tested towards its suitability for 3D osteogenic differentiation under flow perfusion conditions. Subsequently, physiologic shear stress and hydrostatic pressure (HP) conditions were optimized for osteogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). X-ray computed microtomography and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed a closed cell layer covering the entire matrix. Osteogenic differentiation assessed by alkaline phosphatase activity and SEM was found to be increased in all dynamic conditions. Furthermore, screening of different fluid shear stress (FSS) conditions revealed 1.5 mL/min (equivalent to ∼10 mPa shear stress) to be optimal. However, no distinct effect of HP compared to flow perfusion without HP on osteogenic differentiation was observed. Notably, throughout all experiments, cells cultivated under FSS or HP conditions displayed increased osteogenic differentiation, which underlines the importance of physiologic conditions. In conclusion, the bioreactor system was used for biomaterial testing and to develop and optimize a 3D cell culture process for the osteogenic differentiation of MSCs. Due to its versatility and higher throughput efficiency, we hypothesize that this bioreactor/incubator system will advance the development and optimization of a variety of 3D cell culture processes.
Overexpression of FOXM1 Is a Potential Prognostic Marker in Male Breast Cancer
Authors: Abdeljaoued Syrine , Bettaieb Ilhem , Nasri Meher , Adouni Olfa , Goucha Aida , El Amine Olfa , Boussen Hammouda , Rahal Khaled , Gamoudi Amor
Published: March 2017

Background: Several studies have outlined biological differences between female and male breast cancer (MBC) and concluded that MBC should be considered as an entirely separate disease. Whether FOXM1 has any indication for prognosis in MBC patients remains unknown. We sought to examine the expression levels of FOXM1 in MBC and to identify the relationship between FOXM1 expression and patient survival. Patients and Methods: FOXM1 expression was evaluated in a total of 130 MBC specimens. Results: FOXM1 was overexpressed in 37% of the MBC samples. FOXM1 overexpression was significantly associated with tumor size (p = 0.045), histological grade (p = 0.048), lymph node metastasis (p = 0.012), Ki-67 proliferation index (p = 0.016), and molecular subtypes (p < 0.001). Multivariate analyses indicated that FOXM1 was an independent prognostic factor for overall survival in MBC patients (p < 0.001, hazard ratio = 0.69 (0.43-0.96)). Conclusions: Overexpression of FOXM1 was associated with well-established markers of poor prognosis; thus FOXM1 may represent a potential novel prognostic marker for MBC.
Phototoxicity of Doxycycline: A Systematic Review on Clinical Manifestations, Frequency, Cofactors, and Prevention
Authors: Goetze Steven , Hiernickel Christian , Elsner Peter
Published: March 2017

Background: One of the most important dermatologic side effects of doxycycline is photosensitivity. As doxycycline is important for malaria prophylaxis and malaria is mainly spread in countries with high sun radiation, special attention should be paid to this adverse effect. While there are many publications on the phototoxicity of tetracyclines in general, only a few exist focusing on doxycycline. The objective of this systematic review was to summarize all available reports on clinical manifestations, influencing factors like UV dose or dose of medication, and the possibilities of prevention by sun protection. Methods: This review is based on a systematic search in PubMed for articles in English and German and a manual search between 1990 and 2015. Results: The number of publications is low. Clinical symptoms vary from light sunburn-like sensation (burning, erythema) to large-area photodermatitis. Also, onycholysis is possible. The triggering UV spectrum seems to consist mainly of UVA1 (340-400 nm), so UV-protective products should be used that cover this range. Travelers to tropical countries taking doxycycline for malaria prophylaxis need thorough medical counseling to avoid possibly severe phototoxic reactions. Conclusion: Evidence base must be improved for giving advice on appropriate prevention measures to travelers taking doxycycline and having a risk of significant sun exposure.
Hypokalemia and Pendrin Induction by Aldosterone
Authors: Xu Ning , Hirohama Daigoro , Ishizawa Kenichi , Chang Wen Xiu , Shimosawa Tatsuo , Fujita Toshiro , Uchida Shunya , Shibata Shigeru
Published: March 2017

Aldosterone plays an important role in regulating Na-Cl reabsorption and blood pressure. Epithelial Na
+
channel, Na
+
-Cl
−
cotransporter, and Cl
−
/HCO
3
−
exchanger pendrin are the major mediators of Na-Cl transport in the aldosterone-sensitive distal nephron. Existing evidence also suggests that plasma K
+
concentration affects renal Na-Cl handling. In this study, we posited that hypokalemia modulates the effects of aldosterone on pendrin in hyperaldosteronism. Chronic aldosterone infusion in mice increased pendrin levels at the plasma membrane, and correcting hypokalemia in this model almost completely blocked pendrin upregulation. However, hypokalemia induced by a low-K
+
diet resulted in pendrin downregulation along with reduced plasma aldosterone levels, indicating that both hypokalemia and aldosterone excess are necessary for pendrin induction. In contrast, decreased plasma K
+
levels were sufficient to increase Na
+
-Cl
−
cotransporter levels. We found that phosphorylation of mineralocorticoid receptor that prevents aldosterone binding in intercalated cells was suppressed by hypokalemia, which resulted in enhanced pendrin response to aldosterone, explaining the coordinated action of aldosterone and hypokalemia in pendrin regulation. Finally, to address the physiological significance of our observations, we administered aldosterone to mice lacking pendrin. Notably, plasma K
+
levels were significantly lower in pendrin knockout mice (2.7±0.1 mmol/L) than in wild-type mice (3.0±0.1 mmol/L) after aldosterone infusion, demonstrating that pendrin alleviates hypokalemia in a state of aldosterone excess. These data indicate that the decreased plasma K
+
levels promote pendrin induction by aldosterone, which, in concert with Na
+
-Cl
−
cotransporter, counteracts the progression of hypokalemia but promotes hypertension in primary aldosterone excess.
Beneficial Effects of Apelin on Vascular Function in Patients With Central Obesity
Authors: Schinzari Francesca , Veneziani Augusto , Mores Nadia , Barini Angela , Di Daniele Nicola , Cardillo Carmine , Tesauro Manfredi
Published: March 2017

Patients with central obesity have impaired insulin-stimulated vasodilation and increased ET-1 (endothelin 1) vasoconstriction, which may contribute to insulin resistance and vascular damage. Apelin enhances insulin sensitivity and glucose disposal but also acts as a nitric oxide (NO)–dependent vasodilator and a counter-regulator of AT
1
(angiotensin [Ang] II type 1) receptor–induced vasoconstriction. We, therefore, examined the effects of exogenous (Pyr
1
)apelin on NO-mediated vasodilation and Ang II– or ET-1–dependent vasoconstrictor tone in obese patients. In the absence of hyperinsulinemia, forearm blood flow responses to graded doses of acetylcholine and sodium nitroprusside were not different during saline or apelin administration (both
P
>0.05). During intra-arterial infusion of regular insulin, however, apelin enhanced the vasodilation induced by both acetylcholine and nitroprusside (both
P
<0.05). Interestingly, the vasodilator effect of concurrent blockade of AT
1
(telmisartan) and AT
2
(PD 123,319) receptors was blunted by apelin (3±5% versus 32±9%;
P
<0.05). Similarly, during apelin administration, blockade of ET
A
receptors (BQ-123) resulted in lower vasodilator response than during saline (23±10% versus 65±12%;
P
<0.05). NO synthase inhibition by L-NMMA (
l
-
N
-monometylarginine) during the concurrent blockade of either Ang II or ET
A
receptors resulted in similar vasoconstriction in the absence or presence of apelin (
P
>0.05). In conclusion, in patients with central obesity, apelin has favorable effects not only to improve insulin-stimulated endothelium-dependent and endothelium-independent vasodilator responses but also to blunt Ang II– and ET-1–dependent vasoconstriction by a mechanism not involving NO. Taken together, our results suggest that targeting the apelin system might favorably impact some hemodynamic abnormalities of insulin-resistant states like obesity.
Bone Mineral Density and Risk of Heart Failure in Older Adults: The Cardiovascular Health Study
Authors: Fohtung Raymond B. , Brown David L. , Koh William J. H. , Bartz Traci M. , Carbone Laura D. , Civitelli Roberto , Stein Phyllis K. , Chaves Paulo H. M. , Kestenbaum Bryan R. , Kizer Jorge R.
Published: March 2017

Background

Despite increasing evidence of a common link between bone and heart health, the relationship between bone mineral density (
BMD
) and heart failure (
HF
) risk remains insufficiently studied.

Methods and Results

We investigated whether
BMD
measured by dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry was associated with incident
HF
in an older cohort. Cox models were stratified by sex and interactions of
BMD
with race assessed.
BMD
was examined at the total hip and femoral neck separately, both continuously and by World Health Organization categories. Of 1250 participants, 442 (55% women) developed
HF
during the median follow‐up of 10.5 years. In both black and nonblack women, neither total hip nor femoral neck
BMD
was significantly associated with
HF
; there was no significant interaction by race. In black and nonblack men, total hip, but not femoral neck,
BMD
was significantly associated with
HF
, with evidence of an interaction by race. In nonblack men, lower total hip
BMD
was associated with higher
HF
risk (hazard ratio, 1.13 [95% CI, 1.01–1.26] per 0.1 g/cm
2
decrement), whereas in black men, lower total hip
BMD
was associated with lower
HF
risk (hazard ratio, 0.74 [95% CI, 0.59–0.94]). There were no black men with total hip osteoporosis. Among nonblack men, total hip osteoporosis was associated with higher
HF
risk (hazard ratio, 2.83 [95% CI, 1.39–5.74]) compared with normal
BMD
.

Conclusions

Among older adults, lower total hip
BMD
was associated with higher
HF
risk in nonblack men but lower risk in black men, with no evidence of an association in women. Further research is needed to replicate these findings and to study potential underlying pathways.
Interleukin 6 Inhibition and Coronary Artery Disease in a High‐Risk Population: A Prospective Community‐Based Clinical Study
Authors: Bacchiega Bruno Cesar , Bacchiega Ana Beatriz , Usnayo Magali Justina Gomez , Bedirian Ricardo , Singh Gurkirpal , Pinheiro Geraldo da Rocha Castelar
Published: March 2017

Background

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease, with interleukin 6 (
IL
‐6) as a major player in inflammation cascade.
IL
‐6 blockade may reduce cardiovascular risk, but current treatments to block
IL
‐6 also induce dyslipidemia, a finding with an uncertain prognosis.

Methods and Results

We aimed to determine the endothelial function responses to
the IL
‐6–blocking agent tocilizumab, anti–tumor necrosis factor α, and synthetic disease‐modifying antirheumatic drug therapies in patients with rheumatoid arthritis in a 16‐week prospective study. Sixty consecutive patients with rheumatoid arthritis were enrolled. Tocilizumab and anti–tumor necrosis factor α therapy were started in 18 patients each while 24 patients were treated with synthetic disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs. Forty patients completed the 16‐week follow‐up period. The main outcome was flow‐mediated dilation percentage variation before and after therapy. In the tocilizumab group, flow‐mediated dilation percentage variation increased statistically significantly from a pre‐treatment mean of (3.43% [95% CI, 1.28–5.58] to 5.96% [95% CI, 3.95–7.97];
P
=0.03). Corresponding changes were 4.78% (95% CI, 2.13–7.42) to 6.75% (95% CI, 4.10–9.39) (
P
=0.09) and 2.87% (95% CI, −2.17 to 7.91) to 4.84% (95% CI, 2.61–7.07) (
P
=0.21) in the anti–tumor necrosis factor α and the synthetic disease‐modifying antirheumatic drug groups, respectively (both not statistically significant). Total cholesterol increased significantly in the tocilizumab group from 197.5 (95% CI, 177.59–217.36) to 232.3 (201.62–263.09) (
P
=0.003) and in the synthetic disease‐modifying antirheumatic drug group from 185.8 (95% CI, 169.76–201.81) to 202.8 (95% CI, 176.81–228.76) (
P
=0.04), but not in the anti–tumor necrosis factor α group. High‐density lipoprotein did not change significantly in any group.

Conclusions

Endothelial function is improved by tocilizumab in a high‐risk population, even as it increases total cholesterol and low‐density lipoprotein levels.
Acupuncture Attenuated Vascular Dementia–Induced Hippocampal Long-Term Potentiation Impairments via Activation of D1/D5 Receptors
Authors: Ye Yang , Li Hui , Yang Jing-Wen , Wang Xue-Rui , Shi Guang-Xia , Yan Chao-Qun , Ma Si-Ming , Zhu Wen , Li Qian-Qian , Li Tian-Ran , Xiao Ling-Yong , Liu Cun-Zhi
Published: March 2017

Background and Purpose—

Emerging evidence suggests that acupuncture could improve cognitive impairment in vascular dementia by enhancing synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether dopamine, a key mediator of synaptic plasticity, is involved in this cognitive improvement.

Methods—

Vascular dementia model was established by bilateral common carotid arteries occlusion in male Wistar rats. Three days after the operation, animals received acupuncture treatment for 2 weeks, once daily. The D1/D5 receptors antagonist SCH23390 was administered intraperitoneally 15 minutes before each acupuncture treatment. Morris water maze was examined after acupuncture. Long-term potentiation was studied by an electrophysiological technique. Dopamine and metabolites levels were detected by microdialysis and high-performance liquid chromatography from brain tissue. The expression of D1R and D5R was analyzed by immunofluorescence.

Results—

Acupuncture remarkably reversed cognitive deficits in 2-vessel occlusion model (2VO) rats, and the acupuncture points Zusanli (ST36) and Baihui (GV20) were confirmed to be the most effective combination. Electrophysiological recording data showed that 2VO-induced impairments of long-term potentiation were prevented by acupuncture. In addition, acupuncture promoted the release of dopamine and its major metabolites in the hippocampus of 2VO rats. The immunofluorescence experiment showed that the decrease of D1R and D5R in hippocampal dentate gyrus region of 2VO rats was reversed by acupuncture. Furthermore, we found that the effects of acupuncture against 2VO-induced impairments in cognition and synaptic plasticity were abolished by SCH23390.

Conclusions—

Improvement in cognition and hippocampal synaptic plasticity induced by acupuncture was achieved via activation of D1/D5 receptors in 2VO rats.
Stroke and Circulating Extracellular RNAs
Authors: Mick Eric , Shah Ravi , Tanriverdi Kahraman , Murthy Venkatesh , Gerstein Mark , Rozowsky Joel , Kitchen Robert , Larson Martin G. , Levy Daniel , Freedman Jane E.
Published: March 2017

Background and Purpose—

There is increasing interest in extracellular RNAs (ex-RNAs), with numerous reports of associations between selected microRNAs (miRNAs) and a variety of cardiovascular disease phenotypes. Previous studies of ex-RNAs in relation to risk for cardiovascular disease have investigated small numbers of patients and assayed only candidate miRNAs. No human studies have investigated links between novel ex-RNAs and stroke.

Methods—

We conducted unbiased next-generation sequencing using plasma from 40 participants of the FHS (Framingham Heart Study; Offspring Cohort Exam 8) followed by high-throughput polymerase chain reaction of 471 ex-RNAs. The reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction included 331 of the most abundant miRNAs, 43 small nucleolar RNAs, and 97 piwi-interacting RNAs in 2763 additional FHS participants and explored the relations of ex-RNAs and prevalent (n=63) and incident (n=51) stroke and coronary heart disease (prevalent=286, incident=69).

Results—

After adjustment for multiple cardiovascular disease risk factors, 7 ex-RNAs were associated with stroke prevalence or incidence; there were no ex-RNA associated with prevalent or incident coronary heart disease. Statistically significant ex-RNA associations with stroke were specific, with no overlap between prevalent and incident events.

Conclusions—

This is the largest study of ex-RNAs in relation to stroke using an unbiased approach in an observational cohort and the first large study to examine human small noncoding RNAs beyond miRNAs. These results demonstrate that when studied in a large observational cohort, extracellular miRNAs are associated with stroke risk.
Symptomatic Patients Remain at Substantial Risk of Arterial Disease Complications Before and After Endarterectomy or Stenting
Authors: Hobeanu Cristina , Lavallée Philippa C. , Rothwell Peter M. , Sissani Leila , Albers Gregory W. , Bornstein Natan M. , Caplan Louis R. , Donnan Geoffrey A. , Ferro José M. , Hennerici Michael G. , Labreuche Julien , Molina Carlos , Steg Philippe Gabriel , Touboul Pierre-Jean , Uchiyama Shinichiro , Vicaut Éric , Wong Lawrence K.S. , Amarenco Pierre
Published: March 2017

Background and Purpose—

After carotid endarterectomy (CEA) or carotid artery stenting (CAS) in patients with transient ischemic attack or minor ischemic stroke, recurrent stroke risk falls to a low rate on modern medical treatment.

Methods—

We used data from 4583 patients with recent transient ischemic attack or minor stroke enrolled in the TIAregistry.org to perform a nested case–control analysis to evaluate pre- and post-CEA/CAS risk. Cases were defined as patients with a CEA/CAS during the 1-year follow-up period. For each case, 2 controls with a follow-up time greater than the time from qualifying event to CEA/CAS were randomly selected, matched by age and sex. Primary outcome was defined as major vascular events (MVE, including stroke, cardiovascular death, and myocardial infarction).

Results—

The median delay from symptom onset of qualifying event to CEA/CAS was 11 days (interquartile range, 6–23). Overall, patients with CEA/CAS had a higher 1-year risk of MVE than other patients (14.8% versus 5.8%; adjusted hazard ratio, 2.40; 95% confidence interval, 1.61–3.60;
P
<0.001). During the matched preprocedural period, MVE occurred in 14 (7.5%) cases and in 13 (3.5%) controls, with an adjusted odds ratio =2.46 (95% confidence interval, 1.07–5.64;
P
=0.03). In the postprocedural period, the risk of MVE was also higher in cases than in controls (adjusted
P
<0.03).

Conclusions—

Patients with CEA/CAS had a higher 12-month risk of MVE, as well as during pre- and postprocedural periods. These results suggest that patients in whom CEA/CAS is anticipated are likely to be an informative population for inclusion in studies testing new antithrombotic strategies started soon after symptom onset.
PAIS 2 (Paracetamol [Acetaminophen] in Stroke 2)
Authors: de Ridder Inger R. , den Hertog Heleen M. , van Gemert H. Maarten A. , Schreuder A.H.C.M.L. (Tobien) , Ruitenberg Annemieke , Maasland E. (Lisette) , Saxena Ritu , van Tuijl Jordie H. , Jansen Ben P.W. , Van den Berg-Vos Renske M. , Vermeij Frederique , Koudstaal Peter J. , Kappelle L. Jaap , Algra Ale , van der Worp H. Bart , Dippel Diederik W.J. ,   Trial Organization, Lingsma H.F. , El Ghannouti N. , Vermey F. , Vermeulen M. , Tijssen J.G.P. , van Dijk E.J.
Published: March 2017

Background and Purpose—

Subfebrile body temperature and fever in the first days after stroke are strongly associated with unfavorable outcome. A subgroup analysis of a previous trial suggested that early treatment with paracetamol may improve functional outcome in patients with acute stroke and a body temperature of ≥36.5°C. In the present trial, we aimed to confirm this finding.

Methods—

PAIS 2 (Paracetamol [Acetaminophen] in Stroke 2) was a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. We aimed to include 1500 patients with acute ischemic stroke or intracerebral hemorrhage within 12 hours of symptom onset. Patients were treated with paracetamol in a daily dose of 6 g or matching placebo for 3 consecutive days. The primary outcome was functional outcome at 3 months, assessed with the modified Rankin Scale and analyzed with multivariable ordinal logistic regression. Because of slow recruitment and lack of funding, the study was stopped prematurely.

Results—

Between December 2011 and October 2015, we included 256 patients, of whom 136 (53%) were allocated to paracetamol. In this small sample, paracetamol had no effect on functional outcome (adjusted common odds ratio, 1.15; 95% confidence interval, 0.74–1.79). There was no difference in the number of serious adverse events (paracetamol n=35 [26%] versus placebo n=28 [24%]).

Conclusions—

Treatment with high-dose paracetamol seemed to be safe. The effect of high-dose paracetamol on functional outcome remains uncertain. Therefore, a large trial of early treatment with high-dose paracetamol is still needed.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.trialregister.nl
. Unique identifier: NTR2365.
Volume, Heat, and Salt Transports through the Soya Strait and Their Seasonal and Interannual Variations
Authors: Ohshima Kay I. , Simizu Daisuke , Ebuchi Naoto , Morishima Shuta , Kashiwase Haruhiko
Published: March 2017

Volume, heat, and salt transports through the Soya Strait are estimated based on measurements from high-frequency ocean radars during 2003–15 and all available hydrographic data. The baroclinic velocity structure derived from the climatological geopotential anomaly is combined with the sea surface gradient obtained from radar-derived surface velocities to estimate the absolute velocity structure. The annual-mean volume, heat, and salt transports are 0.91 Sv (1 Sv ≡ 106 m3 s−1), 25.5 TW, and 31.15 × 106 kg s−1, respectively. The volume transport exhibits strong seasonal variations, with a maximum of 1.41 Sv in August and a minimum of 0.23 Sv in January. The seasonal amplitude and phase roughly correspond to those of the Tsushima–Korea Strait. Time series of the monthly transport is presented for the 12 yr, assuming that the baroclinic components are the monthly climatological values. In cold seasons (November to April), the monthly volume transport is strongly correlated with the sea level difference between the Japan and Okhotsk Seas, and an empirical formula to estimate the transport from the sea level difference is introduced. It is likely that the sea level setup by the wind stress along the east coast of Sakhalin determines the sea level difference, which explains the seasonal and interannual wintertime variations of transport through the strait. The annual flux of water through the Soya Strait with a density greater than 26.8σθ, a potential source of Okhotsk Sea Intermediate Waters, is estimated to be 0.18 Sv.
Coral Reef Drag Coefficients – Water Depth Dependence
Authors: Lentz S. J. , Davis K. A. , Churchill J. H. , DeCarlo T. M.
Published: March 2017

A major challenge in modeling the circulation over coral reefs is uncertainty in the drag coefficient because existing estimates span two orders of magnitude. Current and pressure measurements from five coral reefs are used to estimate drag coefficients based on depth-average flow, assuming a balance between the cross-reef pressure gradient and the bottom stress. At two sites wind stress is a significant term in the cross-reef momentum balance and is included in estimating the drag coefficient. For the five coral reef sites and a previous laboratory study, estimated drag coefficients increase as the water depth decreases consistent with open channel flow theory. For example, for a typical coral reef hydrodynamic roughness of 5 cm, observational estimates, and the theory indicate that the drag coefficient decreases from 0.4 in 20 cm of water to 0.005 in 10 m of water. Synthesis of results from the new field observations with estimates from previous field and laboratory studies indicate that coral reef drag coefficients range from 0.2 to 0.005 and hydrodynamic roughnesses generally range from 2 to 8 cm. While coral reef drag coefficients depend on factors such as physical roughness and surface waves, a substantial fraction of the scatter in estimates of coral reef drag coefficients is due to variations in water depth.
Convective-Scale Data Assimilation for the Weather Research and Forecasting Model Using the Local Particle Filter
Authors: Poterjoy Jonathan , Sobash Ryan A. , Anderson Jeffrey L.
Published: March 2017

Particle filters (PFs) are Monte Carlo data assimilation techniques that operate with no parametric assumptions for prior and posterior errors. A data assimilation method introduced recently, called the local PF, approximates the PF solution within neighborhoods of observations, thus allowing for its use in high-dimensional systems. The current study explores the potential of the local PF for atmospheric data assimilation through cloud-permitting numerical experiments performed for an idealized squall line. Using only 100 ensemble members, experiments using the local PF to assimilate simulated radar measurements demonstrate that the method provides accurate analyses at a cost comparable to ensemble filters currently used in weather models. Comparisons between the local PF and an ensemble Kalman filter demonstrate benefits of the local PF for producing probabilistic analyses of non-Gaussian variables, such as hydrometeor mixing ratios. The local PF also provides more accurate forecasts than the ensemble Kalman filter, despite yielding higher posterior root-mean-square errors. A major advantage of the local PF comes from its ability to produce more physically consistent posterior members than the ensemble Kalman filter, which leads to fewer spurious model adjustments during forecasts. This manuscript presents the first successful application of the local PF in a weather prediction model and discusses implications for real applications where nonlinear measurement operators and nonlinear model processes limit the effectiveness of current Gaussian data assimilation techniques.
Hydrodemetallation and Hydrodesulfurization Spent Catalysts Elemental Analysis: Comparison of Wavelength Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence and Atomic Emission Spectrometries
Authors: Garoux Laetitia , Gourhand Sébastien , Hébrant Marc , Schneider Michel , Diliberto Sébastien , Meux Eric
Published: March 2017

Petroleum industries continuously consume catalysts on very large scales. The recycling of spent catalysts is thus of major economic and environmental importance and its first step consists of the characterization of the valuable metal content. Wavelength dispersive X-ray fluorescence (WDXRF) analysis is compared with inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) for the analysis of five samples of spent hydrodesulphurization (HDS) and hydrodemetallization (HDM) catalysts. The elements are considered for their economic interest (Co, Ni, Mo, and V) or for the problems that can arise when they are present in the sample in significant quantities (Al, As, P, Fe). First, the systematic comparison of the analysis of known synthetic samples was performed. The originality here is that the samples were first beaded with lithium tetraborate (Li2B4O7) for WDXRF analysis and then dissolved in hot HCl 6M for ICP-AES measurements. With this processing, we were able to clearly identify the origin of analytical problems when they arose. Second, the semi-quantitative protocol of WDXRF is compared with the quantitative procedure. Finally, the analysis of the spent catalysts is presented and the information gained by the systematic comparison of ICP-AES and WDXRF is shared. The interest of the simultaneous determination by the two techniques when such complicated heterogeneous matrices are involved is clearly demonstrated.
The Effect of Moderate Temperatures on Latent Fingerprint Chemistry
Authors: Johnston Andrew , Rogers Keith
Published: March 2017

The effect of moderate temperatures (25–75 ℃) on latent fingerprints over a five-hour period was examined using Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) microspectroscopy. The aim of the study was to detect changes in IR spectra due to any changes in fingerprint chemistry; these results were then compared to pure compounds found in sebum that was subjected to 75 ℃ for 5 h. Latent fingerprints deposited on CaF2 microscope slides and placed on a Peltier pump heating stage showed that higher temperatures significantly reduced the quantity of sebaceous compounds after 5 h, whereas temperatures below 45 ℃ had little effect on the quantity of these compounds over the same time period. Fourier transform infrared microspectroscopy allowed for the real-time detection of changes to the IR spectra and demonstrated an increase in the OH stretch band (3250 cm–1) over 5 h at all temperatures investigated, suggesting various oxidation processes were taking place. Pure samples analyzed included squalene, fatty acids, wax esters, and mixed triglycerides. Unsaturated lipids showed a similar increase in the OH stretch band to the latent fingerprints whereas saturated compounds showed no change over time. This information is required to better understand the effect of moderate temperatures on latent fingerprints and how these temperatures could affect aged print composition.
Implementation of Resonance Tracking for Assuring Reliability in Resonance Enhanced Photothermal Infrared Spectroscopy and Imaging
Authors: Ramer Georg , Reisenbauer Florian , Steindl Benedikt , Tomischko Wolfgang , Lendl Bernhard
Published: March 2017

Photothermal-induced resonance (PTIR) is a method for optical spectroscopy that allows for infrared (IR) chemical imaging at spatial resolution below the limit of diffraction. By using the mechanical resonance of the cantilever for amplification the technique has been shown to allow sensitivity down to single monolayers.

In this work, we discuss the challenges that must be overcome for performing stable resonant PTIR measurements and how imprecise experimental procedures can lead to irreproducible or even erroneous results. We also present a controller design that continuously readjusts the excitation frequency of a PTIR setup back to the resonance frequency in order to allow for accurate resonance-enhanced PTIR measurements. This controller can be used together with a broad range of atomic force microscopes. Schematics and program code for the controller are made freely available.
Long-Wave Infrared (LWIR) Molecular Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) Emissions of Thin Solid Explosive Powder Films Deposited on Aluminum Substrates
Authors: Yang Clayton S.-C. , Jin Feng , Trivedi Sudhir B. , Brown Ei E. , Hommerich Uwe , Tripathi Ashish , Samuels Alan C.
Published: March 2017

Thin solid films made of high nitro (NO2)/nitrate (NO3) content explosives were deposited on sand-blasted aluminum substrates and then studied using a mercury–cadmium–telluride (MCT) linear array detection system that is capable of rapidly capturing a broad spectrum of atomic and molecular laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) emissions in the long-wave infrared region (LWIR; ∼5.6–10 µm). Despite the similarities of their chemical compositions and structures, thin films of three commonly used explosives (RDX, HMX, and PETN) studied in this work can be rapidly identified in the ambient air by their molecular LIBS emission signatures in the LWIR region. A preliminary assessment of the detection limit for a thin film of RDX on aluminum appears to be much lower than 60 µg/cm2. This LWIR LIBS setup is capable of rapidly probing and charactering samples without the need for elaborate sample preparation and also offers the possibility of a simultaneous ultraviolet visible and LWIR LIBS measurement.
Introduction to the symposium: Ivan Vladislavić, writing visual culture, and the globalization of a South African “artworld”
Authors: Reid Katie , Graham James
Published: March 2017

The introduction to this symposium considers South African author and editor Ivan Vladislavić’s engagement with South African visual culture and the significance of this to his emergence as a “world writer”. The symposium opens with an article by Sean O’Toole, which provides a comprehensive biographical context for Vladislavić’s engagement with art and proposes that his oeuvre be understood as a unique form of “creative criticism”. In their articles, Sue Marais and Jane Poyner offer close readings that draw out the critical role played by the visual cultures of the rarefied art world and everyday life, respectively, in two key texts where this creative criticism is in evidence: “Curiouser” from The Exploded View (2004) and Portrait with Keys (2006). James Graham’s article examines the nature and outcomes of Vladislavić’s work with other writers and visual artists as an editor, providing a theoretical framework that connects the biographical and formal concerns of the other articles by illustrating the cooperative ethos that undergirds Vladislavić’s critical and creative engagement with visual culture. The symposium therefore illustrates Vladislavić’s critical role in the negotiation of globalized artistic and literary fields, and in the constellation of a South African “artworld”.
Work Engagement in South Korea
Authors: Ho Kim Won , Park Jong Gyu , Kwon Bora
Published: March 2017

This study aims to validate Korean versions of the 9-item Utrecht Work Engagement Scale, testing for its factor pattern validity through Exploratory Factor Analysis and Confirmatory Factor Analysis, reliability, and convergent and discriminant validity. The 9-item Utrecht Work Engagement Scale was translated according to the guidelines of the International Test Commission and tested with two Korean samples. First, the Exploratory Factor Analysis found that both two-factor and three-factor solutions were viable options with the first sample. Second, comparison validations of these two solutions were tested by confirming the dimensionality of their structures through the Confirmatory Factor Analyses with the second sample, with the conclusion that the three-factor model solution was the most parsimonious model. Finally, the three-factor model of the 9-item Utrecht Work Engagement Scale was demonstrated to have good discriminant validity and convergent validity, as well as internal consistency of its subscales.
A parameter adaptive identification method for a pumped storage hydro unit regulation system model using an improved gravitational search algorithm
Authors: Xu Yanhe , Zhou Jianzhong , Zhang Chu , Zhang Yuncheng , Li Chaoshun , Qian Zhongdong
Published: March 2017

With increasing wind farm, solar farm, and pump storage plant integrations, intense frequency fluctuation of the pumped storage hydro unit (PSHU) under the no-load running condition, which is caused by its operation along the S-shaped curve, has been noted and researched. So, parameter identification of the PSHU regulation system (PSHURS) is crucial in precise modeling of the PSHU and can provide support for the optimized control and stability analysis of the power system. In this paper, a parameter adaptive identification method together with an improved gravitational search algorithm (IGSA) is proposed and applied to solve the identification problem for a PSHURS under the no-load condition. The IGSA, which is based on the standard gravitational search algorithm, accelerates convergence speed with a combination of the Pbest- Gbest-guided search strategy and the adaptive elastic-ball method and improves the local optimal with the added chemotaxis operator of the bacterial foraging algorithm. Furthermore, for the parameter adaptive identification method, the parameter performance evaluator is employed to devise the moving step of the agent of the chemotaxis operator. The illustrative experiment for parameter identification of the PSHURS is used to verify the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method. Comparison with other methods clearly shows that the adaptive parameter identification method along with the IGSA perform best for all identification indicators.
To Be Alone or in a Group: An Exploration Into How the School-Based Experiences Differ for Black Male Teachers Across One Urban School District
Authors: Bristol Travis J.
Published: March 2017

One urban district administered the Black Male Teacher Environment Survey (BMTES) to each of its Black male teachers to measure their school-based experiences. This article highlights descriptive statistics from the 86 Black male teacher respondents. Findings suggest that participants’ background characteristics and school-based experiences varied by the number of Black men on the faculty. Loners, schools with one Black male teacher on the faculty, reported different experiences when compared with Groupers, schools with four or more Black male teachers on the faculty. Specifically, Loners were more likely to receive alternative certification, reported that their White colleagues had greater influence on school policy than teachers of color, believed that being Black caused people to fear them in their schools, and reported having a greater desire to leave their schools than Groupers.
Beyond Salience Transmission: Linking Agenda Networks Between Media and Voters
Authors: Wu H. Denis , Guo Lei
Published: March 2017

This study investigated the network agenda setting (NAS) model with data gathered from Taiwan’s 2012 presidential election. Networks of important objects and candidate attributes in the news were compared with the counterparts generated from public opinion. The overall correlation between the media and public network agendas was positive and significant, thus supporting the NAS model in a non-Western context. In addition, this study found that the NAS model offered more predictive power at the attribute than the object level. The effects of selective exposure in a partisan media system were also incorporated into the investigation. Results showed that partisan selective exposure did not lead to consistent findings about the accentuated association between like-minded media consumption and candidate evaluation.
An adaptive fault detection method based on atom sparse and evidence fusion for the small current to ground system
Authors: Wang Xiaowei , Wei Xiangxiang , Yang Dechang , Gao Jie , Sun Xue , Song Guobing
Published: March 2017

An adaptive fault detection method for the small current to ground system is proposed based on the atom sparse and evidence fusion theory. Firstly, the two cycles of transient zero-sequence current are obtained when occur fault, which is decomposed by the matching pursuit algorithm, and the iterations are set to four, then, according to the correlation analysis, the best three atoms of maximum correlation are chosen and which are sorted by the correlation coefficients. Secondly, we obtained the determine fault measure (DFM) values by calculating the atomic energy entropy, and selected the atomic fault trust (FT) function by revising the DFM. Finally, the FT values are integrated by the D-S (Dempster–Shafer) evidence theory, then the fault comprehensive trust values are gained, the selection results are output. Simulation results show that the method of fault line detection is accurate and reliable.
Couple-group consensus for second-order multi-agent systems with the effect of second-order neighbours’ information
Authors: Gao Yulan , Yu Junyan , Yu Mei , Xiao Yue , Shao Jinliang
Published: March 2017

This paper investigates a couple-group consensus problem of second-order multi-agent systems with the impact of second-order neighbours’ information. For systems with/without time delays, couple-group consensus criteria are established in the form of linear matrix inequalities by utilizing both model transformation and stability theories. The main results indicate that the group consensus for multi-agent systems under the effect of second-order neighbours’ information can be achieved based on the premise of a generalized balanced couple. Finally, illustrative examples are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the theoretical results.
Race, Generational Status, and the Dynamics of First-Marriage Transitions Among Black Immigrants in the United States
Authors: Thomas Kevin
Published: March 2017

Previous studies give limited attention to the marital outcomes of Black immigrants in the United States. In this study, therefore, the main objective of the analysis is to examine the relationship between race-ethnicity, generational status, and first marriage among Black immigrants. Using data from the American Community Survey, the study tests two hypotheses. The first is that Black immigrants face greater constraints to first-marriage transition compared with non-Black immigrants. The second is that increasing generational status results in a convergence in the outcomes of Black immigrants with those of U.S.-born Blacks. The results show that Black immigrants enter first marriages at older ages compared with non-Black immigrants. With increasing generational status, however, Black immigrants are more likely to enter first marriages at younger ages compared with U.S.-born Blacks, suggesting that as assimilation increases, Black immigrants are less likely to have outcomes that are consistent with a retreat from marriage.
The Football Supporter in a Cosmopolitan Epoch
Authors: Petersen-Wagner Renan
Published: March 2017

Arguably, the later process of globalization served to reshape how socializations are fostered and maintained across time and space. In addition, in the last 15 years, a new phenomenon that reinvigorated time and space compression has emerged: social media. Moreover, it is argued that the conjunction of those processes can be seen as taking place on a distinct Age—the Anthropocene or the cosmopolitan epoch. Arguably, those processes have the capacity to alter the way individuals enact their football fandom. In this light, this article seeks to conceptualize one particular football support identity that takes into account this fragmented period. Based on an 18-month ethnographic research with supporters of one English Premier League club, this article conceptualizes the football fan in the Anthropocene as the cosmopolitan flâneur. I conclude by pointing out to some prospective avenues for future research based on a cosmopolitan imagination.
Gland Preservation in Patients Undergoing Sialoendoscopy
Authors: Achim Virginie , Light Tyler J. , Andersen Peter E.
Published: March 2017

Objective

Sialoendoscopy is a minimally invasive technique for the treatment of obstructive sialadenitis. We aim to describe treatment considerations and report our ultimate rate of gland preservation.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Academic tertiary hospital.

Subject and Methods

A total of 128 consecutive sialoendoscopy cases for obstructive sialadenitis between 2009 and 2015 were evaluated. Procedures included endoscopic stricture dilation, basket‐assisted stone retrieval, Holmium laser lithotripsy, and combined endoscopic transoral stone excision. Resolution of symptoms, need for additional procedures, and rate of subsequent adenectomy were investigated.

Results

Sialoendoscopy was completed in 120 of 128 patients (94%). There were 87 parotid gland cases and 41 submandibular gland cases. Endoscopic stricture dilation was attempted in 97 patients and successful in 99%. A sialolith was identified in 31 cases and removed by basket‐assisted stone retrieval (10 cases), Holmium:YAG laser stone fragmentation (10 cases), and combined endoscopic transoral stone extraction (4 cases). In 8 cases overall, sialoendoscopy failed, with immediate adenectomy. At a mean follow‐up of 18 months, 39 patients (33%) reported recurrence of symptoms, with 90% in the stricture group. For the entire cohort, gland preservation occurred in 112 of 128 patients (88%).

Conclusions

Sialoendoscopy is an effective technique, with few patients requiring additional procedures. Newer interventional approaches allow for stone retrieval without adenectomy. Patients in the stricture group were more likely to have recurrent symptoms as compared with the sialolithiasis group but often benefit from additional sialoendoscopic procedures, leading to a high overall rate of long‐term gland preservation of 91%.