bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cyberspace
Authors: Hurley John S.
Published: June 2017

The transition of the warfare mentality from the conventional domains of engagement (air, land, maritime, and space) to the cyberspace domain has not been an easy one for established organizations and institutions. The battlefield, in which now speed and stealth instead of size and budget are the determining factors that provide an edge have not well for many, especially those in the military. Now they do not clearly dictate who amongst combatants have the ‘upper hand' and represent a significant paradigm shift from factors that were very good predictors of a potential outcome of military conflicts. The battles of the past were largely over territories and resources (Landscape Metrics, 2015). We see outcomes now being influenced by a broader range of factors, including politics, culture, economy, religion, and ethnicity. These new ‘pivot points' for conflict require a very different understanding and approach to achieve desired outcomes. Technology continues to be the main enabler that has transformed the battlefield and the rules of engagement from the conventional domains to cyberspace. The issue of attribution has been a huge differentiator and looms very large in cyberspace conflicts because it is very difficult to determine within a sufficient timeframe the source of an attack and to be able to respond to or prevent attacks. Now conflicts have expanded in such a way that combatants now cross all prospective levels of society from targets to attackers or perpetrators. The low cost required to provide significant damage to a desired target environment in cyberspace has been a game changer. As a result, the rules of engagement which were much clearer in conventional domains on military fronts are much more blurred due to the new realm of combatants, and as such, has changed many of the approaches and methodologies that were standard practices in traditional campaigns. In this paper, we focus on cyber conflicts and how the cultural differences of these three communities have plagued the ability to achieve a simple and coherent response against attackers and perpetrators. We pursue the relevance of trust and deterrence and their influence on ‘warfare' tactics in the cyberspace domain. We also look at culture and the ‘new norm' and how they have required consideration of new and unconventional approaches. We see how data can better inform decision makers and those responsible for designing and implementing campaigns in this new era of conflict. Our results indicate the need for a different model to work through the differences in culture if better are to be obtained by the combatants. In addition, we see that an approach that includes cyber deterrence framed in the context of active defense provides optimism on future outcomes.
A Group Leader Location Hiding Technique for VANETs
Authors: Aljallad Shaker , Al-Qassas Raad S. , Qasaimeh Malik
Published: June 2017

Vehicular ad hoc network (VANET) is one of the most promising and emerging communication technologies that could definitely lead to significant improvements in the traffic management and safety. Location privacy is a critical requirement in VANET, since location information may be shared between vehicles to support the VANET applications. Therefore, it is crucial to protect the location of users. In this paper, we propose a location privacy protection technique that utilises the shadow concept and takes into consideration the reliability in protecting the group leader location, which would basically provide the needed anonymity and protection for the location information targeted by global adversaries. The performance of the proposed technique has been investigated through simulation and compared against the well-known AOSA technique. The results from extensive simulations have shown that the proposed technique enhances the anonymity of the group leader vehicle by reducing the time that the global adversaries can use in collecting location information.
An Approach to Efficiency Evaluation of Services with Smart Attributes
Authors: Kulakov Kirill
Published: June 2017

Nowadays amount of “smart” services in e-Tourism is growing rapidly. This is due to widespread use of mobile devices with new input methods and large amount of digitized data. In addition, Internet of Things and Big Data analytics has a major impact on development of e-Tourism services and cultural heritage services. At the same time the smart services implementation requires complex methods and high cost of their creation. Thereby there is an actual problem to estimate efficiency of smart services. This paper presents an approach to efficiency evaluation of services with smart attributes. The evaluation is based on service's work time utilization and required manual work. For each used attribute the execution scenario, ordinary (non-smart) service for comparison and used estimates are defined. Each estimate is calculated by taking into account the user's experience. Presented approach is relevant for smart services with big data analytics. The demonstration of the approach was carried out using Cultural trip planning service with possible ordinary services.
Crystallization Kinetics of PP/Talc/Coir Hybrid Composites
Authors: Purnima Doddipatla , Somarowthu Srikanth
Published: June 2017

Polypropylene (PP), a versatile polymer finds application in many sectors. However, it has low impact strength.To overcome this draw back elastomer is added, which results in improved impact property at the expense of decreased tensile strength. To improve this fillers are added. However some fillers also improve impact strength. In this work only fillers have been used to get balance of properties in PP. Knowledge of crystallization of PP is important for processing of PP. In this work the effect of hybrid fillers on PP has been studied on the isothermal and non-isothermal crystallization kinetics of PP. The fillers used are coir and talc.
Microstructural Characterization and Properties of Sn-Ag-Cu (SAC) Compound Induced by Zn Alloying
Authors: Go Roa Stewart M. , Magdaluyo Jr. Eduardo , Gierlotka Wojciech
Published: June 2017

The microstructural properties and intermetallic (IMC) formation of Sn-Ag-Cu (SAC) through varying amounts of zinc were examined in this study while having tin held at constant composition. Samples were prepared and heated in a furnace for 168 hours to achieve complete solidification and homogenization. Results showed relatively fine microstructure primarily containing Sn dendrites, eutectic, and pro-eutectic phases. Microstructures for each alloy was similar for which majority of them formed copper-based IMCs and Sn dendrites. The alloy (0.7Sn-0.15Ag-0.1Cu-0.05Zn) containing minimal amount of zinc with high amount of Ag resulted to high Vickers hardness number. Structural analysis showed that these group of alloys composed mainly of β-Sn, Cu6Sn5, and Ag3Sn.
Parmena solieri lanzai Sama, 1985, new synonym of Parmena solieri Mulsant, 1839 (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae)
Authors: Ceccolini Filippo , Terzani Fabio
Published: June 2017

An analysis of the morphology of Parmena solieri Mulsant, 1839, based on specimens from Provence (including the lectotype), Liguria, Sardinia, the Tuscan Archipelago (including the type series of P. solieri lanzai Sama, 1985) and Corsica, establishes the new synonymy Parmena solieri lanzai Sama, 1985 = Parmena solieri Mulsant, 1839, syn. n.
New records of Campopleginae for Italy (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae)
Authors: Di Giovanni Filippo , Riedel Matthias
Published: June 2017

The present study is based on material collected through an intensive sampling in north-eastern Italy, with thirteen species of the subfamily Campopleginae (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) newly recorded for Italy: Campoletis agilis (Holmgren, 1860), C. thomsoni (Roman, 1915), Campoplex punctulatus (Szépligeti, 1916), C. rothi (Holmgren, 1860), Diadegma annulicrus (Thomson, 1887), Echthronomas ochrostoma (Holmgren, 1860), Hyposoter coxator (Thomson, 1887), H. discedens (Schmiedeknecht, 1909), H. meridionellator Aubert, 1965, H. tenuicosta (Thomson, 1887), Olesicampe binotata (Thomson, 1887), Rhimphoctona melanura (Holmgren, 1860) and Sinophorus nitidus (Brischke, 1880). Hyposoter meridionellator Aubert, 1965 (stat. rev.) is recognized as a different species to Hyposoter rufovariatus (Schmiedeknecht, 1909). The male of Echthronomas facialis (Thomson, 1887) and the hitherto unknown male of Echthronomas ochrostoma (Holmgren, 1860) are described for the first time. The number of Campopleginae known from Italy is raised to 245 species.
Online appendix 1: A new checklist of lichenised, lichenicolous and allied fungi reported from South Africa
Authors: Fryday Alan M.
Published: June 2017

Background: The last comprehensive list of lichenised, lichenicolous and allied fungi reported from South Africa was published in 1950. A checklist is important to provide basic information on the extent of the diversity, and to provide the most recent name and classification.Objective: To present a list of all the lichenised, lichenicolous and allied fungi reported from South Africa.Methods: The list presented is entirely literature based and no attempt has been made to check the report of any taxa or their status by checking the specimens upon which they are based. Firstly, all taxa that were not reported from within the modern boundaries of South Africa were excluded. Next, the Recent literature on lichens database was searched for literature on South African lichens since 1945 and all references checked for new species or new reports, which were then added to the list. These names were then checked against Index Fungorum to ensure that the most current name was being used. Finally, the list was rationalised by excluding all synonyms and dubious infraspecific taxa.Results: The current list includes 1750 taxa in 260 genera from mainland South Africa, with an additional 100 species and 23 genera from the sub-Antarctic Prince Edward Islands, which are treated separately. The replacement name Verrucaria dagolavii Fryday is proposed for Verrucaria umbilicata Øvstedal.Conclusion: It is estimated that, when fully explored, the lichen biota of South Africa will consist of somewhere between 2500 and 3000 taxa.
Near vision correction and quality of life among textile factory workers in Durban
Authors: Chan Ving F. , Naidoo Jyoti , Chinanayi Farai S. , Naidoo Kovin S.
Published: June 2017

Background: Uncorrected near vision impairment affects the performance of near vision tasks and activities for an estimated 410 million people worldwide. Once normal vision becomes blurred or impaired, the ordinary and simple daily routines of individuals become difficult; often resulting in frustration and irritation, which is consequently reflected in their quality of life.Aim: We investigated the change of vision-related quality of life (VRQoL) following near correction among textile factory workers in South Africa.Methods: Presbyopic subjects who were 40 years and older with no other eye conditions were provided near spectacle correction. We interviewed subjects to ascertain their VRQoL scores using the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire, pre-treatment and 6 months after the provision of near corrections.Setting: The study was conducted among the textile factory workers in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.Results: A total of 423 textile factory workers were followed up from seven textile factories in Durban. The overall increase in VRQoL scores of 21.9 (95% CI 16.7–27) was significant (p < 0.01). This translates to a 36.5% (95% CI 30.6–42.4) change in VRQoL. The increase was highest among participants of African origin 25.1 (95% CI 21.14–29.1), males 18.8 (95% CI 12.6–27.2), among those who had completed primary school 35.8 (95% CI 21.7–49.9) and among participants with other responsibilities (ironing and quality assurance) 21.9 (95% CI 16.7–27).Conclusion: Correcting near vision impairment improved the VRQoL scores of textile factory workers. The results showed that VRQoL scores increased significantly across levels of education and categories of responsibility
The Kottman Constant for α-Hölder Maps
Authors: Suárez de la Fuente Jesús
Published: June 2017

We investigate the role of the Kottman constant of a Banach space X in the extension of α-Hölder continuous maps for every α ∊ (0, 1].
Valoración del Grado en "Ciencias de la Actividad Física y del Deporte de la Universidade da Coruña" realizada por los estudiantes en función de su sexo y curso académico
Authors: Rodríguez Quijada M. , Molkova S.
Published: June 2017

En la presente investigación se lleva a cabo un análisis de la opinión de los alumnos del año académico 2013-2014 del Grado en Ciencias de la Actividad Física y del Deporte (CCAFyD) de la Universidade da Coruña, en función de su sexo y curso académico, acerca de determinados aspectos de la titulación y la Facultad. El instrumento utilizado para recoger datos consistió en un cuestionario diseñado específicamente para este estudio y validado mediante juicio de expertos. Para lograr los objetivos de la investigación se obtuvo una muestra de 272 sujetos (207 hombres y 65 mujeres), que corresponde al 34,04% de la población. Dicha muestra se considera representativa, atiende a un margen de error del 5% y con un nivel de confianza del 95%. El análisis de los resultados revela que, con respecto al sexo de los estudiantes, existen diferencias significativas en la valoración de determinados aspectos relacionados con la Facultad y el Grado. Asimismo, se presentan diferencias significativas en la valoración en función del curso académico del alumnado. Los resultados obtenidos pueden tener numerosas aplicaciones en la mejora de la formación que reciben los estudiantes del Grado en CCAFyD de la UDC.
Las competencias transversales en el grado de Pedagogía: diagnóstico y estado de la cuestión
Authors: Eizagirre A. , Altuna J. , Pikabea I. , Marko J. I. , Pérez V.
Published: June 2017

La finalidad de este trabajo es reflejar los resultados obtenidos en la realización de un Proyecto de Innovación Educativa que busca analizar y organizar el diseño curricular de las competencias transversales en el Grado de Pedagogía. Para ello, se realiza un diagnóstico de la situación, triangulando las respuestas y los datos de distintos agentes educativos implicados. En consecuencia, la muestra está compuesta por tres grupos de participantes: 1) pedagogos profesionales que trabajan fuera de la propia Universidad del País Vasco, 2) profesorado del grado de pedagogía y 3) alumnado de pedagogía de la propia Facultad. Después de un análisis en profundidad y un contraste de la información, se concluye que hay unas competencias transversales como el trabajo en equipo, la comunicación oral y escrita, que están permanentemente presentes en numerosas asignaturas de grado. Sin embargo, hay otras competencias transversales con una escasa presencia o con una reducida actividad, es el caso de la creatividad, de la competencia digital, el liderazgo y el aprendizaje autónomo o emprendizaje. Estas diferencias en el trabajo y en el peso de unas y otras competencias, suponen un claro aviso y una llamada de atención, para advertir al profesorado universitario de la necesidad de una redefinición u organización del diseño curricular, así como de la evaluación y el trabajo de las competencias transversales en las asignaturas del grado de pedagogía.
The impact of Flipped Classroom on the motivation and learning of students in Operations Management
Authors: Díaz Garrido Eloísa , Martín-Peña María Luz , Sánchez-López José María
Published: June 2017

The objective of this work is to analyze the effectiveness of the Flipped Classroom methodology in the discipline of Operations Management, analyzing for this the motivation of the students and their learning results in terms of the acquisition of skills and qualifications obtained. Specifically, a comparative analysis is carried out with two teaching groups, having applied the methodology of Flipped Classroom only in one of them.

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El impacto del flipped classroom en la motivación y en el aprendizaje de los estudiantes en la asignatura Dirección de Operaciones
Playing in Operations Management
Authors: Guitart-Tarrés Laura , Núñez-Carballosa Ana , Jaría Chacón Natalia , Achcaoucaou Fariza , Cruz-Cázares Claudio , Miravitlles Paloma , Huertas García Ruben
Published: June 2017

The current model of competency-based learning requires new tools that allow students to develop these competencies and become active subjects of their learning (rather than passive receivers of a contents). Gamification or ludification is becoming an innovative trend in many areas, also in higher education. Games can provide a useful environment for students to acquire professional skills, a fact that is much more difficult to acquire through traditional learning methods. In that sense, this paper presents the experience of designing a game for Operations Management students.
Optical, physical and chemical properties of aerosols transported to a coastal site in the western Mediterranean: a focus on primary marine aerosols
Authors: Claeys Marine , Roberts Greg , Mallet Marc , Arndt Jovanna , Sellegri Karine , Sciare Jean , Wenger John , Sauvage Bastien
Published: June 2017

Abstract. As part of the ChArMEx-ADRIMED campaign (summer 2013), ground-based in situ observations were conducted at the Ersa site (northern tip of Corsica; 533 m a.s.l.) to characterise the optical, physical and chemical properties of aerosols. During the observation period, a major influence of primary marine aerosols was detected (22–26 June), with a mass concentration reaching up to 6.5 µg m−3 and representing more than 40 % of the total PM10 mass concentration. Its relatively low ratio of chloride to sodium (average of 0.57) indicates a fairly aged sea salt aerosol at Ersa. In this work, an original data set, obtained from online real-time instruments (ATOFMS, PILS-IC) has been used to characterise the ageing of primary marine aerosols (PMAs). During this PMA period, the mixing of fresh and aged PMAs was found to originate from both local and regional (Gulf of Lion) emissions, according to local wind measurements and FLEXPART back trajectories. Two different aerosol regimes have been identified: a dust outbreak (dust) originating from Algeria/Tunisia, and a pollution period with aerosols originating from eastern Europe, which includes anthropogenic and biomass burning sources (BBP). The optical, physical and chemical properties of the observed aerosols, as well as their local shortwave (SW) direct radiative effect (DRE) in clear-sky conditions, are compared for these three periods in order to assess the importance of the direct radiative impact of PMAs compared to other sources above the western Mediterranean Basin. As expected, AERONET retrievals indicate a relatively low local SW DRF during the PMA period with mean values of −11 ± 4 at the surface and −8 ± 3 W m−2 at the top of the atmosphere (TOA). In comparison, our results indicate that the dust outbreak observed at our site during the campaign, although of moderate intensity (AOD of 0.3–0.4 at 440 nm and column-integrated SSA of 0.90–0.95), induced a local instantaneous SW DRF that is nearly 3 times the effect calculated during the PMA period, with maximum values up to −40 W m−2 at the surface. A similar range of values were found for the BBP period to those during the dust period (SW DRF at the surface and TOA of −23 ± 6 and −15 ± 4 W m−2 respectively). The multiple sources of measurements at Ersa allowed the detection of a PMA-dominant period and their characterisation in terms of ageing, origin, transport, optical and physical properties and direct climatic impact.
Are precipitation anomalies associated with aerosol variations over eastern China?
Authors: Xu Xiangde , Guo Xueliang , Zhao Tianliang , An Xingqin , Zhao Yang , Quan Jiannong , Mao Fei , Gao Yang , Cheng Xinghong , Zhu Wenhui , Wang Yinjun
Published: June 2017

Abstract. In eastern China (EC), the strong anthropogenic emissions deteriorate the atmospheric environment, building a south–north zonal distribution of high aerosols harbored by the upstream Tibetan and Loess plateaus in China. This study climatologically analyzed the interannual variability in precipitation with different intensities in association with aerosol variations over the EC region from 1961 to 2010 by using precipitation and visibility data from more than 50 years and aircraft and surface aerosol data from recent years in China, and the impacts of aerosol variations on interannual variability in the intensity of precipitation events and their physical causes are investigated. We found that the frequency of light rain has significantly decreased and the occurrence of rainstorms, especially severe rainstorms, has significantly increased over recent decades. The extreme precipitation events presented an interannual variability pattern similar to that of the frequent haze events over EC. Accompanied by the frequent haze events in EC, light rain frequency significantly decreased and extremely heavy precipitation events have occurred more frequently. During the 1980s, the regional precipitation trends in EC showed an obvious transform from more light rain to more extreme rainstorms. The running correlation analysis of interdecadal variation further verified that the correlation between the increasing aerosols and frequencies of abnormal precipitation events tended to be more significant in EC. The correlation between atmospheric visibility and low cloud amounts, which are both closely related to aerosol concentrations, was positive in the north and negative in the south, and the spatial distribution of the variability in regional rainstorm frequency was positive in the south and negative in the north. After the 1990s, the visibility in summer season deteriorated more remarkably, light rain frequency decreased noticeably, and rainstorms and extraordinarily heavy rainfall occurred more frequently. There were significant differences in the interdecadal variation trends in light rain and rainstorm events between the highly aerosol-polluted area in EC and the relatively clean area on the western plateaus of China. The aircraft measurements over EC confirmed that the diameters of cloud droplets decreased under high aerosol concentration conditions, thereby inhibiting weak precipitation process.
Impact of the assimilation of lightning data on the precipitation forecast at different forecast ranges
Authors: Federico Stefano , Petracca Marco , Panegrossi Giulia , Transerici Claudio , Dietrich Stefano
Published: June 2017

Abstract. This study investigates the impact of the assimilation of total lightning data on the precipitation forecast of a numerical weather prediction (NWP) model. The impact of the lightning data assimilation, which uses water vapour substitution, is investigated at different forecast time ranges, namely 3, 6, 12, and 24 h, to determine how long and to what extent the assimilation affects the precipitation forecast of long lasting rainfall events (> 24 h). The methodology developed in a previous study is slightly modified here, and is applied to twenty case studies occurred over Italy by a mesoscale model run at convection-permitting horizontal resolution (4 km). The performance is quantified by dichotomous statistical scores computed using a dense raingauge network over Italy. Results show the important impact of the lightning assimilation on the precipitation forecast, especially for the 3 and 6 h forecast. The probability of detection (POD), for example, increases by 10 % for the 3 h forecast using the assimilation of lightning data compared to the simulation without lightning assimilation for all precipitation thresholds considered. The Equitable Threat Score (ETS) is also improved by the lightning assimilation, especially for thresholds below 40 mm day−1. Results show that the forecast time range is very important because the performance decreases steadily and substantially with the forecast time. The POD, for example, is improved by 1–2 % for the 24 h forecast using lightning data assimilation compared to 10 % of the 3 h forecast. The impact of the false alarms on the model performance is also evidenced by this study.
Long-term weather, hydrometric, and water chemistry datasets in high-temporal resolution at the La Salle River watershed in Manitoba, Canada
Authors: Cordeiro Marcos R. C. , Vanrobaeys Jason A. , Wilson Henry F.
Published: June 2017

Abstract. Lack of long-term datasets in fine temporal resolution hinders environmental studies and modelling efforts; to address this issue in the La Salle River watershed, in Canada, long-term weather (1990–2013), hydrometric (1990–2013 except years with no or poor data), and water chemistry (2009–2013) datasets were developed. The weather variables consisted of temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, solar radiation, and precipitation in an hourly time-step, which is required for physically-based modelling. The only hydrometric variable included in the dataset was stream discharge in a daily time-step, which is the usual time-frame for summarizing the results of long-term studies. The water chemistry data consisted of total nitrogen (TN), total dissolved nitrogen (TDN), total phosphorus (TP) and total dissolved phosphorus (TDP). Samples were collected weekly during the open water season at the same site as they hydrometric gauging station (05OG008) starting in August 2009 until October 2012 with some gaps (i.e. Fall 2011, Spring 2012, September 2012). In 2013 the frequency of sampling was increased to daily or sub-daily during high stream discharge and weekly during low stream discharge. An overview of the data indicates that values and trends are within ranges reported in the literature for the region. Mean annual, winter, and summer temperatures were 3.5 °C–10.7 °C and 17.2 °C, respectively. Annual relative humidity averaged 73.1 % but tended to be higher and more homogenous in cold seasons. Wind speed was very similar over the different seasons with annual average of 4.3 m/s. Solar radiation followed the typical curve reported for western Canada, with peak daily average values around 250 W/m2 in July. The precipitation records were mostly comprised of dry hours and the characteristic precipitation pattern of the Canadian Prairies with high frequency of small precipitation events as observed, with 75.3 % of the hourly precipitation being equal or less than 2 mm/h. The hydrometric characteristics of the dataset were also typical of the Canadian Prairies; the average peak discharge over the entire period was larger in April (2.3 m3/s) due to large amounts of snowmelt runoff. The average concentrations of TN, TDN, TP and TDP of 1.54, 1.35, 0.56, and 0.49 mg/L, respectively, were in agreement with values found in previous studies at the same location. The datasets for weather (https://doi.org/10.23684/ODI-2017-00957), discharge (https://doi.org/10.23684/ODI-2017-00959) and water chemistry (https://doi.org/10.23684/ODI-2017-00958) are accessible through the Government of Canada's Open Data portal (http://open.canada.ca).
Climate and basin drivers of seasonal river water temperature dynamics
Authors: Laizé Cédric L. R. , Bruna Meredith Cristian , Dunbar Michael J. , Hannah David M.
Published: June 2017

Abstract. Stream water temperature is a key control of many river processes (e.g. ecology, biogeochemistry, hydraulics) and services (e.g. power plant cooling, recreational use). Consequently, the effect of climate change and variability on stream temperature is a major scientific and practical concern. This paper aims (1) to improve the understanding of large-scale spatial and temporal variability in climate–water temperature associations, and (2) to assess explicitly the influence of basin properties as modifiers of these relationships. A dataset was assembled including six distinct modelled climatic variables (air temperature, downward short-wave and long-wave radiation, wind speed, specific humidity, and precipitation) and observed stream temperatures for the period 1984–2007 at 35 sites located on 21 rivers within 16 basins (Great Britain geographical extent); the study focuses on broad spatio-temporal patterns, and hence was based on 3-month-averaged data (i.e. seasonal). A wide range of basin properties was derived. Five models were fitted (all seasons, winter, spring, summer, and autumn). Both site and national spatial scales were investigated at once by using multi-level modelling with linear multiple regressions. Model selection used multi-model inference, which provides more robust models, based on sets of good models, rather than a single best model. Broad climate–water temperature associations common to all sites were obtained from the analysis of the fixed coefficients, while site-specific responses, i.e. random coefficients, were assessed against basin properties with analysis of variance (ANOVA). All six climate predictors investigated play a role as a control of water temperature. Air temperature and short-wave radiation are important for all models/seasons, while the other predictors are important for some models/seasons only. The form and strength of the climate–stream temperature association vary depending on season and on water temperature. The dominating climate drivers and physical processes may change across seasons and across the stream temperature range. The role of basin permeability, size, and elevation as modifiers of the climate–water temperature associations was confirmed; permeability has the primary influence, followed by size and elevation. Smaller, upland, and/or impermeable basins are the most influenced by atmospheric heat exchanges, while larger, lowland and permeable basins are the least influenced. The study showed the importance of accounting properly for the spatial and temporal variability of climate–stream temperature associations and their modification by basin properties.
Sensitivity analysis and calibration of a dynamic physically based slope stability model
Authors: Zieher Thomas , Rutzinger Martin , Schneider-Muntau Barbara , Perzl Frank , Leidinger David , Formayer Herbert , Geitner Clemens
Published: June 2017

Abstract. Physically based modelling of slope stability on a catchment scale is still a challenging task. When applying a physically based model on such a scale (1 : 10 000 to 1 : 50 000), parameters with a high impact on the model result should be calibrated to account for (i) the spatial variability of parameter values, (ii) shortcomings of the selected model, (iii) uncertainties of laboratory tests and field measurements or (iv) parameters that cannot be derived experimentally or measured in the field (e.g. calibration constants). While systematic parameter calibration is a common task in hydrological modelling, this is rarely done using physically based slope stability models. In the present study a dynamic, physically based, coupled hydrological–geomechanical slope stability model is calibrated based on a limited number of laboratory tests and a detailed multitemporal shallow landslide inventory covering two landslide-triggering rainfall events in the Laternser valley, Vorarlberg (Austria). Sensitive parameters are identified based on a local one-at-a-time sensitivity analysis. These parameters (hydraulic conductivity, specific storage, angle of internal friction for effective stress, cohesion for effective stress) are systematically sampled and calibrated for a landslide-triggering rainfall event in August 2005. The identified model ensemble, including 25 behavioural model runs with the highest portion of correctly predicted landslides and non-landslides, is then validated with another landslide-triggering rainfall event in May 1999. The identified model ensemble correctly predicts the location and the supposed triggering timing of 73.0 % of the observed landslides triggered in August 2005 and 91.5 % of the observed landslides triggered in May 1999. Results of the model ensemble driven with raised precipitation input reveal a slight increase in areas potentially affected by slope failure. At the same time, the peak run-off increases more markedly, suggesting that precipitation intensities during the investigated landslide-triggering rainfall events were already close to or above the soil's infiltration capacity.
Winter mass balance of Drangajökull ice cap (NW Iceland) derived from satellite sub-meter stereo images
Authors: Belart Joaquín M. C. , Berthier Etienne , Magnússon Eyjólfur , Anderson Leif S. , Pálsson Finnur , Thorsteinsson Thorsteinn , Howat Ian M. , Aðalgeirsdóttir Guðfinna , Jóhannesson Tómas , Jarosch Alexander H.
Published: June 2017

Abstract. Sub-meter resolution, stereoscopic satellite images allow for the generation of accurate and high-resolution digital elevation models (DEMs) over glaciers and ice caps. Here, repeated stereo images of Drangajökull ice cap (NW Iceland) from Pléiades and WorldView2 (WV2) are combined with in situ estimates of snow density and densification of firn and fresh snow to provide the first estimates of the glacier-wide geodetic winter mass balance obtained from satellite imagery. Statistics in snow- and ice-free areas reveal similar vertical relative accuracy (<  0.5 m) with and without ground control points (GCPs), demonstrating the capability for measuring seasonal snow accumulation. The calculated winter (14 October 2014 to 22 May 2015) mass balance of Drangajökull was 3.33 ± 0.23 m w.e. (meter water equivalent), with ∼ 60 % of the accumulation occurring by February, which is in good agreement with nearby ground observations. On average, the repeated DEMs yield 22 % less elevation change than the length of eight winter snow cores due to (1) the time difference between in situ and satellite observations, (2) firn densification and (3) elevation changes due to ice dynamics. The contributions of these three factors were of similar magnitude. This study demonstrates that seasonal geodetic mass balance can, in many areas, be estimated from sub-meter resolution satellite stereo images.
Spatial and temporal distributions of surface mass balance between Concordia and Vostok stations, Antarctica from combined radar and ice core data: First results and detailed error analysis
Authors: Le Meur Emmanuel , Magand Olivier , Arnaud Laurent , Fily Michel , Frezzotti Massimo , Cavitte Marie , Mulvaney Robert , Urbini Stefano
Published: June 2017

Abstract. Results from Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) measurements and shallow ice cores carried out during a scientific traverse between Dome Concordia (DC) and Vostok stations are presented in order to infer both spatial and temporal characteristics of snow accumulation over the East Antarctic plateau. Spatially continuous accumulation rates along the traverse are computed from the identification of three equally spaced radar reflections spanning about the last 600 yr. Accurate dating of these Internal Reflection Horizons (IRHs) is obtained from a depth-age relationship derived from volcanic horizons and bomb testing fallout on a DC ice core and shows a very good consistency when tested against extra ice cores drilled along the radar profile. Accumulation rates are then inferred by accounting for density profiles down to each IRH. For this latter purpose, a careful error analysis showed that using a single and more accurate density profile along a DC core provided more reliable results than trying to include the potential spatial variability in density from extra (but less accurate) ice cores distributed along the profile. The most striking feature is an accumulation pattern that remains constant through time with persistent gradients such as a marked decrease from 26 mm w.e. yr−1 at DC to 20 mm w.e. yr−1 at the South West end of the profile over the last 234 yr average (with a similar decrease from 25 mm w.e. yr−1 to 19 mm w.e. yr−1 over the last 592 yr). Insights into the time-dependency reveal a steady increase of accumulation on the East Antarctic plateau during the last 600 yr and more particularly since about 200 yr as already suggested by previous studies relying on GPR and/or time markers in ice cores. Maximum margins of error are in the range 4 mm w.e. yr−1 (last 234 yr) to 2 mm w.e. yr−1 (last 592 yr), a decrease with depth mainly resulting from the time-averaging when computing accumulation rates. The gradients proposed in this study remain however significant since only the reduced non systematic component (with regard to space or time) of these error terms has to be considered when interpreting spatial or temporal trends.
Incidence and Evolution of Subretinal Precipitates in Optic Disc Pit Maculopathy
Authors: Chatziralli Irini , Theodossiadis George , Brouzas Dimitrios , Theodossiadis Panagiotis
Published: June 2017

Purpose

To study the evolution of subretinal precipitates coexistent with optic disc pit (ODP) maculopathy from their appearance at baseline examination until their absorption after successful treatment.

Methods

Participants in this retrospective, multicenter study were 42 patients with ODP maculopathy, in whom complete ocular examination was performed, including visual acuity (VA) measurement, slit-lamp examination, color or red-free fundus photography, and optical coherence tomography at baseline after surgical treatment.

Results

Out of 42 cases, 17 (40.5%) cases of ODP maculopathy, which were examined between 2002 and 2015, were found to have subretinal precipitates associated with multilayer fluid accumulation at baseline. Precipitates were located at the outer part of the photoreceptor layer and remained for 3-6 months after successful treatment and absorption of subretinal fluid. The mean VA was 0.99 ± 0.21 logMAR at baseline and improved to 0.54 ± 0.25 logMAR at the final examination.

Conclusions

Macular precipitates in association with signs of disease chronicity, such as multilayer fluid accumulation, became evident at baseline examination. Precipitates’ disappearance in 15 out of 17 cases coincided with the absorption of subretinal fluid. The relative low VA at baseline probably could be attributed to the chronicity of the disease.
Effect of Artificial Saliva with Different pH Levels on the Cytotoxicity of Soft Denture Lining Materials
Authors: Akay Canan , Taniş Merve Ç. , Sevim Handan
Published: June 2017

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the cytotoxic effects of 9 different soft denture liners on the viability of L-929 mouse fibroblast cells at different incubation periods by storing them in artificial saliva (AS) with different pH levels.

Methods

96 disk samples from each lining material were prepared and divided into 4 groups: GI: No treatment; GII: Stored in artificial saliva with pH 3 for 21 days; Group III: Stored in artificial saliva with pH 7 for 21 days; and Group IV: Stored in artificial saliva with pH 14 for 21 days. The cytotoxicity of the extracts to cultured mouse fibroblasts (L-929) was measured by MTT (tetrazolium salt 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-dipHnyltetrazolium bromide) assay. Data were analyzed using 1-way analysis of variation (ANOVA).

Results

It was found that for the pH 3 values of New Truliner, Trusoft, Mollosil Plus, Dentusil, TDV, and HydroCast®; for the pH 7 values of Ufi Gel P and Elite plus; and for the pH 14 values of HydroCast®, there was a noncytotoxic effect during both the 24-hour and 48-hour incubation periods. In the control group 48-hour incubation period, HydroCast®, TDV, Mollosil, 24-hour incubation period Elite plus, for pH 3 values; Elite Plus 24-hour incubation period, for pH 7 values Trusoft 48-hour incubation period there was a moderately cytotoxic effect.

Conclusions

This in vitro study revealed that storage in artificial saliva with different pH levels can affect the cytotoxicity of soft lining materials.
High Expression of IL-4R Enhances Proliferation and Invasion of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Guo Changkuo , Ouyang Yuming , Cai Jing , Xiong Le , Chen Yajie , Zeng Xiaoli , Liu Anwen
Published: June 2017

Objective

In this study, we aimed to investigate the expression and function of interleukin-4 receptor (IL-4R) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

We collected 40 pairs of human HCC and adjacent normal tissue specimens and examined the expression levels of IL-4R. After IL-4R knockdown in HCC cell lines, cell proliferation and invasion ability were examined. Cell cycle and apoptosis were analyzed by flow cytometry. The activity of multiple signaling pathways was examined by Western blot.

Results

IL-4R was overexpressed in HCC tumors compared with adjacent normal control tissues and was associated with tumor differentiation status. IL-4R knockdown resulted in enhanced apoptosis, impaired proliferation and reduced invasion of HCC cells. Furthermore, IL-4R knockdown abolished IL-4-induced activation of the Janus Kinase 1 (JAK1)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 (STAT6) and JUN N-terminal kinase (JNK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) signaling pathways.

Conclusions

IL-4R plays an important role in regulating HCC cell survival and metastasis, and regulates the activity of the JAK1/STAT6 and JNK/ERK1/2 signaling pathways. We therefore suggest that IL-4/IL-4R may be a new therapeutic target for HCC.
Ischemic Monomelic Neuropathy: A Long-Term follow-up of Two Cases
Authors: Singh Vikas , Qaisar Huzaif , Masud Avais , Mehandru Sushil , Sadiang-Abay Elmer , Costanzo Eric J. , Salman Loay
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Ischemic monomelic neuropathy (IMN) is the most dreaded complication of an arteriovenous access creation. While uncommon, it can lead to pain, paresthesia or/and hand weakness. Creation of an arteriovenous connection causing a sudden diversion of blood away from the nerves can lead to ischemic injury to the neural tissue and cause IMN. Immediate surgical ligation has been traditionally recommended to limit ongoing neural tissue injury.

Case description

We present two diabetic patients who developed IMN after the creation of a left upper extremity brachial-cephalic fistula and refused to undergo surgical ligation. The clinical examination revealed paresthesia localized to the volar aspect of the left forearm with mild weakness of the thumb, index and middle finger. Rehabilitation therapy was initiated in both and revealed a significant improvement in weakness but paresthesia persisted. Fistula maturation was achieved in both patients with an access flow of 1100-1200 cc/min. At 4 months, fistula was used successfully for dialysis in both patients. At a follow-up of 11 months, hand weakness did not progress and paresthesia disappeared.

Conclusions

These cases demonstrate sensory-motor improvement with time and rehabilitation therapy and challenge the traditional approach of fistula ligation. The approach presented in this paper also results in the preservation of the lifeline of a patient. Future investigations should focus on identifying candidates who could benefit from physical therapy and rehabilitation.
Effect of delayed radical cystectomy for invasive bladder tumors on lymph node positivity, cancer-specific survival and total survival
Authors: Türk Hakan , Ün Sıtkı , Cinkaya Ahmet , Kodaz Hilmi , Parvizi Murtaza , Zorlu Ferruh
Published: June 2017

Introduction:

Radical cystectomy (RC) is the main treatment option for patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) and non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC), which carry the highest risk of progression. In this study, we investigated the effect of time from transurethral resection of the bladder (TUR-B) to cystectomy on lymph node positivity, cancer-specific survival and overall survival in patients with MIBC.

Methods:

The records were reviewed of 530 consecutive patients who had RC and pelvic lymphadenectomy procedures with curative intent performed by selected surgeons between May 2005 and April 2016. Our analysis included only patients with transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder; we excluded 23 patients with other types of tumor histology.

Results:

Patients who underwent delayed RC were compared with patients who were treated with early RC; both groups were similar in terms of age, gender, T stage, tumor grade, tumor differentiation, lymph node status and metastasis status. However, when both groups were compared for disease-free survival and overall survival, patients of the early-RC group had a greater advantage.

Conclusions:

The optimal time between the last TUR-B and RC is still controversial. A reasonable time for preoperative preparation can be allowed, but long delays, especially those exceeding 3 months, can lead to unfavorable outcomes in cancer control.
Outcomes of Surgery followed by Local Brain Radiotherapy Compared with Surgery followed by Whole Brain Radiotherapy for Single Brain Metastasis
Authors: Igaki Hiroshi , Harada Ken , Umezawa Rei , Miyakita Yasuji , Ohno Makoto , Takahashi Masamichi , Sumi Minako , Inaba Koji , Murakami Naoya , Ito Yoshinori , Narita Yoshitaka , Itami Jun
Published: June 2017

Purpose

To determine the clinical efficacy of surgery followed by local brain radiotherapy (LBRT) for patients with a single brain metastasis, by comparing the results with those of postoperative whole brain radiotherapy (WBRT).

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis to compare the survival rate, recurrence-free rates, and causes of death for single brain metastasis patients who underwent surgery followed by LBRT or WBRT in the 2010-2015 period.

Results

After their surgery, 22 and 32 patients were treated by LBRT and WBRT, respectively. The median survival times for these LBRT and WBRT groups were 18.3 months and 19.2 months, respectively (p = 0.356). The local recurrence-free rates were 81.2% at 1 year and 81.2% at 2 years after LBRT, and 63.8% at 1 year and 58.9% at 2 years after WBRT (p = 0.589). The distant brain recurrence-free rates were 42.5% at 1 year and 25.5% at 2 years after LBRT, and 69.8% at 1 year and 52.4% at 2 years after WBRT (p = 0.044). Distant brain recurrences were observed significantly more frequently in the LBRT group, but the rates of salvage treatment application and survival were not significantly different between the LBRT and WBRT groups. The probability of neurologic death was not significantly higher in the LBRT group compared with the WBRT group.

Conclusions

Surgery followed by LBRT for single brain metastasis is not inferior to postoperative WBRT, because survival and the necessity of salvage treatment after LBRT were equivalent to those after WBRT.
Hypofractionated radiotherapy for complicated bone metastases in patients with poor performance status: a phase II international trial
Authors: Silva Mauricio F. , Marta Gustavo N. , Lisboa Felipe P.C. , Watte Guilherme , Trippa Fabio , Maranzano Ernesto , da Motta Neiro W. , Popovic Marko , Ha Tuan , Burmeister Bryan , Chow Edward
Published: June 2017

Purpose:

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of hypofractionated radiotherapy (16 Gy in 2 fractions, 1 week apart) in patients with complicated bone metastases and poor performance status.

Methods:

A prospective single-arm phase II clinical trial was conducted from July 2014 to May 2016. The primary endpoint was pain response as defined in the International Consensus on Palliative Radiotherapy Endpoints. Secondary endpoints included quality of life as measured by quality of life questionnaire (QLQ) PAL-15 and QLQ-BM22 European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer guidelines, pain flare, adverse events, re-irradiation, and skeletal complications.

Results:

Fifty patients were enrolled. There were 23 men with a median age of 58 years (range 26-86). Of the 50 patients, 38 had an extraosseous soft tissue component, 18 needed postsurgical radiation, 3 had neuropathic pain, and 3 had an impending fracture in a weight-bearing bone. At 2 months, 33 patients were alive (66%). Four (12.5%) had a complete response and 12 (37.5%) had a partial response. A statistically significant improvement was seen in the functional interference (p = 0.01) and psychosocial aspects (p = 0.03) of the BM22. No patient had spinal cord compression. One patient required surgery for pathologic fracture, and another re-irradiation.

Conclusions:

Hypofractionated radiotherapy (16 Gy in 2 fractions of 8 Gy 1 week apart) achieved satisfactory pain relief and safety results in patients with complicated bone metastases and poor performance status.