bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MAGFLOW: a physics-based model for the dynamics of lava-flow emplacement
Authors: Cappello Annalisa , Hérault Alexis , Bilotta Giuseppe , Ganci Gaetana , Del Negro Ciro
Published: July 2015

The MAGFLOW model for lava-flow simulations is based on the cellular automaton (CA) approach, and uses a physical model for the thermal and rheological evolution of the flowing lava. We discuss the potential of MAGFLOW to improve our understanding of the dynamics of lava-flow emplacement and our ability to assess lava-flow hazards. Sensitivity analysis of the input parameters controlling the evolution function of the automaton demonstrates that water content and solidus temperatures are the parameters to which MAGFLOW is most sensitive. Additional tests also indicate that temporal changes in effusion rate strongly influence the accuracy of the predictive modelling of lava-flow paths. The parallel implementation of MAGFLOW on graphic processing units (GPUs) can achieve speed-ups of two orders of magnitude relative to the corresponding serial implementation, providing a lava-flow simulation spanning several days of eruption in just a few minutes. We describe and demonstrate the operation of MAGFLOW using two case studies from Mt Etna: one is a reconstruction of the detailed chronology of the lava-flow emplacement during the 2006 flank eruption; and the other is the production of the lava-flow hazard map of the persistent eruptive activity at the summit craters.
Suppression of fibrogenic signaling in hepatic stellate cells by Twist1-dependent microRNA-214 expression: Role of exosomes in horizontal transfer of Twist1
Authors: Chen Li , Chen Ruju , Kemper Sherri , Charrier Alyssa , Brigstock David R.
Published: July 2015

A hallmark of liver fibrosis is the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSC), which results in their production of fibrotic molecules, a process that is largely regulated by connective tissue growth factor (CCN2). CCN2 is increasingly expressed during HSC activation because of diminished expression of microRNA-214 (miR-214), a product of dynamin 3 opposite strand (DNM3os) that directly suppresses CCN2 mRNA. We show that an E-box in the miR-214 promoter binds the basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor, Twist1, which drives miR-214 expression and results in CCN2 suppression. Twist1 expression was suppressed in HSC of fibrotic livers or in cultured HSC undergoing activation in vitro or after treatment with ethanol. Furthermore, Twist1 decreasingly interacted with DNM3os as HSC underwent activation in vitro. Nanovesicular exosomes secreted by quiescent but not activated HSC contained high levels of Twist1, thus reflecting the suppression of cellular Twist1 during HSC activation. Exosomal Twist1 was intercellularly shuttled between HSC and stimulated expression of miR-214 in the recipient cells, causing expression of CCN2 and its downstream effectors to be suppressed. Additionally, the miR-214 E-box in HSC was also regulated by hepatocyte-derived exosomes, showing that functional transfer of exosomal Twist1 occurs between different cell types. Finally, the levels of Twist1, miR-214, or CCN2 in circulating exosomes from fibrotic mice reflected fibrosis-induced changes in the liver itself, highlighting the potential utility of these and other constituents in serum exosomes as novel circulating biomarkers for liver fibrosis. These findings reveal a unique function for cellular or exosomal Twist1 in CCN2-dependent fibrogenesis.
Chronic antihypertensive treatment improves pulse pressure but not large artery mechanics in a mouse model of congenital vascular stiffness
Authors: Halabi Carmen M. , Broekelmann Thomas J. , Knutsen Russell H. , Ye Li , Mecham Robert P. , Kozel Beth A.
Published: July 2015

Increased arterial stiffness is a common characteristic of humans with Williams-Beuren syndrome and mouse models of elastin insufficiency. Arterial stiffness is associated with multiple negative cardiovascular outcomes, including myocardial infarction, stroke, and sudden death. Therefore, identifying therapeutic interventions that improve arterial stiffness in response to changes in elastin levels is of vital importance. The goal of this study was to determine the effect of chronic pharmacologic therapy with different classes of antihypertensive medications on arterial stiffness in elastin insufficiency. Elastin-insufficient mice 4–6 wk of age and wild-type littermates were subcutaneously implanted with osmotic micropumps delivering a continuous dose of one of the following: vehicle, losartan, nicardipine, or propranolol for 8 wk. At the end of treatment period, arterial blood pressure and large artery compliance and remodeling were assessed. Our results show that losartan and nicardipine treatment lowered blood pressure and pulse pressure in elastin-insufficient mice. Elastin and collagen content of abdominal aortas as well as ascending aorta and carotid artery biomechanics were not affected by any of the drug treatments in either genotype. By reducing pulse pressure and shifting the working pressure range of an artery to a more compliant region of the pressure-diameter curve, antihypertensive medications may mitigate the consequences of arterial stiffness, an effect that is drug class independent. These data emphasize the importance of early recognition and long-term management of hypertension in Williams-Beuren syndrome and elastin insufficiency.
The MEK1/2 Inhibitor Pimasertib Enhances Gemcitabine Efficacy in Pancreatic Cancer Models by Altering Ribonucleotide Reductase Subunit-1 (RRM1)
Authors: Vena Francesca , Li Causi Eleonora , Rodriguez-Justo Manuel , Goodstal Samantha , Hagemann Thorsten , Hartley John A. , Hochhauser Daniel
Published: July 2015

Purpose: Gemcitabine, a nucleoside analogue, is an important treatment for locally advanced and metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) but provides only modest survival benefit. Targeting downstream effectors of the RAS/ERK signaling pathway by direct inhibition of MEK1/2 proteins is a promising therapeutic strategy, as aberrant activation of this pathway occurs frequently in PDAC. In this study, the ability of pimasertib, a selective allosteric MEK1/2 inhibitor, to enhance gemcitabine efficacy was tested and the molecular mechanism of their interaction was investigated.

Experimental Design: Cell survival and apoptosis were assessed by MTT and Caspase 3/7 Glo assays in human pancreatic cancer cell lines. Protein expression was detected by immunoblotting. The in vivo sensitivity of gemcitabine with pimasertib was evaluated in an orthotopic model of pancreatic tumor.

Results: Synergistic activity was observed when gemcitabine was combined sequentially with pimasertib, in human pancreatic cancer cells. In particular, pimasertib reduced ribonucleotide reductase subunit 1 (RRM1) protein, and this was associated with sensitivity to gemcitabine. Pretreatment with MG132 impaired reduction of RRM1 protein induced by pimasertib, suggesting that RRM1 is degraded posttranslationally. Immunoprecipitation indicated enhanced MDM2-mediated polyubiquitination of RRM1 through Lys-48–mediated linkage following pimasertib treatment, an effect mediated, in part, by AKT. Finally, the combination treatment with pimasertib and gemcitabine caused significant tumor growth delays in an orthotopic pancreatic cancer model, with RRM1 downregulation in pimasertib-treated mice.

Conclusions: These results confirm an important role of RRM1 in gemcitabine response and indicate MEK as a potential target to sensitize gemcitabine therapy for PDAC. Clin Cancer Res; 21(24); 5563–77. ©2015 AACR.
Met Signaling Cascade Is Amplified by the Recruitment of Phosphorylated Met to Lipid Rafts via CD24 and Leads to Drug Resistance in Endometrial Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Ono Yoshihiro Joshua , Tanabe Akiko , Tanaka Tomohito , Tanaka Yoshimichi , Hayashi Masami , Terai Yoshito , Ohmichi Masahide
Published: July 2015

Endometrial cancer is the most prevalent gynecologic cancer in the Western world, and the number of advanced chemotherapy-resistant cancers is increasing with the absolute increase in patients. The development of resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs by cancer cells represents a major challenge in the clinical cure of advanced and metastatic cancers. CD24 has been reported to be a marker for a poor prognosis in several tumors, and we herein examined the functions of CD24 in human endometrioid adenocarcinoma cell lines and evaluated how it contributes to cancer drug resistance. We demonstrated that CD24 was responsible for the recruitment of phosphorylated Met to the lipid raft domain of the cell membrane, resulting in amplification of the Met signaling cascade, ultimately leading endometrial cancer cells to express higher levels of ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters. Our findings suggest that CD24-mediated amplification of the Met cascade may contribute to the drug resistance of endometrial cancer. Mol Cancer Ther; 14(10); 2353–63. ©2015 AACR.
Dietary Fiber Consumption Decreases the Risks of Overweight and Hypercholesterolemia in Japanese Children
Authors: Shinozaki Keiko , Okuda Masayuki , Sasaki Satoshi , Kunitsugu Ichiro , Shigeta Mayumi
Published: July 2015

Aims: It remains inconclusive whether high dietary fiber intake decreases the risk of obesity, hypercholesterolemia or high blood pressure during childhood. Therefore, this study investigated the relationships of dietary fiber intake with weight status and related clinical parameters among Japanese children. Methods: We analyzed the data of 5,600 subjects aged 10-11 years, between 2006 and 2010. Fiber intake was assessed using the Brief-type Diet History Questionnaire. Body height and weight and blood pressure were measured. Serum levels of total cholesterol, low- and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglycerides were analyzed. Fiber intake was categorized into quintiles, and multivariate models were used to adjust for lifestyle factors. Results: Total fiber intake decreased the risks of overweight and high total cholesterol (OR Quintile 5 vs. Quintile 1 overweight: 0.71 for boys, 0.40 for girls; total cholesterol: 0.60 for boys, 0.66 for girls). Water-soluble fiber intake was associated with a lower risk of high blood pressure, although the ORs were not significant. Conclusions: Increasing the dietary fiber intake in Japanese children may have favorable effects on overweight and hypercholesterolemia.
P-Wave Dispersion and Atrial Electromechanical Delay in Patients with Preeclampsia
Authors: İnci Sinan , Nar Gökay , Aksan Gökhan , Sipahioğlu Haydar , Soylu Korhan , Dogan Ali
Published: July 2015

Objectives: To investigate the duration of atrial electromechanical delay (EMD) and left atrial mechanical function in patients with preeclampsia. Materials and Methods: This study included 26 pregnant women with preeclampsia and 24 age-matched pregnant women without preeclampsia (control group). Atrial electromechanical coupling (PA) and intra-atrial and interatrial EMD were measured using tissue Doppler echocardiography. P-wave dispersion (PWD) was measured via 12-lead electrocardiography. All data were analyzed using SPSS v.15.0 for Windows (SPSS, Inc., Chicago, Ill., USA). Differences in continuous variables between groups were examined using a nonparametric Mann-Whitney U test. Correlation analysis was performed using Spearman's coefficient of correlation. Categorical values were compared using a χ2 test. Results: PA lateral and PA septal durations were significantly longer in the preeclampsia group than in the control group [74.6 ± 8.1 vs. 62.3 ± 5.3 ms (p < 0.001) and 59.7 ± 5.3 vs. 56.2 ± 4.9 ms (p = 0.005), respectively]. The duration of interatrial EMD and intra-atrial EMD in the preeclampsia group was significantly longer than in the control group [25.4 ± 4.6 vs. 13.2 ± 3.9 ms (p < 0.001) and 10.5 ± 1.9 vs. 7.1 ± 1.2 ms (p < 0.001), respectively]. PWD was significantly higher in patients with preeclampsia (43.1 ± 9.1 ms) than in the controls (37.6 ± 7.9 ms; p = 0.008). There was a significant correlation between PWD and interatrial EMD and intra-atrial EMD [r = 0.46 (p < 0.001) and r = 0.39 (p < 0.001), respectively]. Conclusion: The duration of atrial EMD and PWD was prolonged in patients with preeclampsia.
Pemphigoid Diseases as a Sign of Active Psoriasis: A Case Report and Brief Review
Authors: Iskandarli Mehdi , Gerceker Turk Bengu , Yaman Banu , Ozturk Gunseli
Published: July 2015

Background: Overlap of bullous pemphigoid (BP) with chronic psoriatic plaques (CPP) is a common condition. However, the association of BP with pustular psoriasis (PP) is uncommon. Moreover, perilesional erythema and pustular lesions on CPP are accepted as a sign of unstable psoriasis. Unstable psoriasis could be triggered by certain irritant topical treatments against psoriasis. These chemical agents could also induce a localized pattern of generalized PP. Here, we describe BP and PP collision in unstable CPP. Objective: By this observation we suggest that BP could be a sign of active psoriasis. Presumably, psoriasis-induced BP is an inflammation activity-dependent condition. Methods: This study is a case report and literature review. Results: The dramatic response of bullo-pustular lesions to short-term methotrexate (MTX) treatment suggests the rule of ‘no psoriasis, no BP'. Presumably, MTX supressed the active inflammation of CPP and BP disappeared following CPP control. Conclusion: BP can be a sign of active psoriasis in the present case.
Twenty-Five Years of Fetoscopic Laser Coagulation in Twin-Twin Transfusion Syndrome: A Systematic Review
Authors: Akkermans Joost , Peeters Suzanne H.P. , Klumper Frans J. , Lopriore Enrico , Middeldorp Johanna M. , Oepkes Dick
Published: July 2015

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the perinatal outcome of pregnancies with twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) treated with laser therapy over the past 25 years, and in relation to different techniques used in this time period. Methods: A systematic review of studies reporting on perinatal outcome according to the Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE) guidelines was conducted. The MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane Library databases were systematically searched. Comparisons were made in respect to time period and laser technique and Quintero stages. Results: In total, 34 studies reporting on 3,868 monochorionic twin pregnancies were included. The mean survival of both twins increased from 35 to 65% (p = 0.012) and for at least one twin from 70 to 88% (p = 0.009) over the past 25 years. Mean gestational age at birth remained stable over the years at 32 weeks gestation. Also, we showed a significantly improved perinatal survival with the evolution of the laser technique from non-selective to selective, selective sequential and the Solomon technique (p = 0.010). Discussion: Since the introduction of laser therapy for TTTS more than two decades ago, perinatal survival improved significantly. Improved outcome is probably associated with several factors, including evolution of the laser technique, learning curve effect, better referral and improved early neonatal care.
Influences of Different Doses of Midazolam on Mother and Fetus in Fetoscopic Surgery for Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome
Authors: Han Guang , Li Lu , Tian Yue , Xue Hang , Zhao Ping
Published: July 2015

Objective: We observed influences of different doses of intravenous midazolam on mother and fetus in fetoscopic surgery for twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS). Methods: A total of 18 pregnant women with TTTS were randomly divided into groups M1 and M2 according to differing doses of midazolam. Some parameters were respectively recorded as prior to administration of midazolam (T0), instantly after anesthesia induction (T1), at incision (T2), instantly after laser coagulation (T3) and at the end of surgery (T4). Results: There was no statistical difference in oxygen saturation and respiratory rate between groups M1 and M2 (all p > 0.05); but mean arterial pressure, heart rate, anxiety visual analog test, Observer's Assessment of Alertness/Sedation scale values and Kreb's scores were significantly lower in group M2 than in group M1 from T1 to T4 (all p < 0.05). In both groups, there was no fetal movement during laser coagulation. Conclusion: We propose that the appropriate dose for midazolam be 0.02 mg/kg in fetoscopic surgery for TTTS.
Thirty-Day Readmissions After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation Versus Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement in Patients With Severe Aortic Stenosis in New York State
Authors: Hannan Edward L. , Samadashvili Zaza , Jordan Desmond , Sundt Thoralf M. , Stamato Nicholas J. , Lahey Stephen J. , Gold Jeffrey P. , Wechsler Andrew , Ashraf Mohammed H. , Ruiz Carlos , Wilson Sean , Smith Craig R.
Published: July 2015

Background—

Several studies have compared short-term and medium-term mortality rates for patients with severe aortic stenosis undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) and surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR), but no studies have compared short-term readmission rates for the 2 procedures.

Methods and Results—

New York’s Cardiac Surgery Reporting System was used to propensity match 617 TAVI and 1981 SAVR patients using numerous patient risk factors contained in the registry. The 389 propensity-matched pairs were then used to analyze differences in readmission rates between the 2 groups. TAVI and SAVR readmission rates were also compared for patients with a history of congestive heart failure and for patients aged ≥80. Also, reasons for readmission for TAVI and SAVR patients were examined and compared. Readmission rates were not statistically different for all propensity-matched TAVI and SAVR patients (respective rates, 18.8% and 19.3%;
P
=0.86). After further adjustment using a logistic regression model, there was still no significant difference (adjusted odds ratio, 0.97; 95% confidence interval [0.68–1.39]). For patients aged ≥80, the 30-day readmission rates were 19.9% and 22.0% (
P
=0.59), and when further adjusted using the logistic regression model, adjusted odds ratio=0.89 (0.55–1.45). For patients with a history of congestive heart failure, the respective rates were 22.8% and 20.4% (
P
=0.56), and with further adjustment, adjusted odds ratio became 1.15 (0.72–1.82).

Conclusions—

There are no statistically significant differences between TAVI and SAVR patients in short-term readmission rates.
Recurrent Stroke
Authors: Andersen Søren Due , Gorst-Rasmussen Anders , Lip Gregory Y.H. , Bach Flemming W. , Larsen Torben Bjerregaard
Published: July 2015

Background and Purpose—

The CHA
2
DS
2
VASc score and the Essen Stroke Risk Score are respectively used for risk stratification in patients with atrial fibrillation and in patients with cerebrovascular incidents. We aimed to test the ability of the 2 scores to predict stroke recurrence, death, and cardiovascular events (stroke, transient ischemic attack, myocardial infarction, or arterial thromboembolism) in a nationwide Danish cohort study, among patients with incident ischemic stroke and no atrial fibrillation.

Methods—

We conducted a registry-based study in patients with incident ischemic stroke and no atrial fibrillation. Patients were stratified according to the CHA
2
DS
2
VASc score and the Essen Stroke Risk Score and were followed up until stroke recurrence or death. We estimated stratified incidence rates and hazard ratios and calculated the cumulative risks.

Results—

42 182 patients with incident ischemic stroke with median age 70.1 years were included. The overall 1-year incidence rates of recurrent stroke, death, and cardiovascular events were 3.6%, 10.5%, and 6.7%, respectively. The incidence rates, the hazard ratios, and the cumulative risk of all outcomes increased with increasing risk scores. C-statistics for both risk scores were around 0.55 for 1-year stroke recurrence and cardiovascular events and correspondingly for death around 0.67 for both scores.

Conclusions—

In this cohort of non–atrial fibrillation patients with incident ischemic stroke, increasing CHA
2
DS
2
VASc score and Essen Stroke Risk Score was associated with increasing risk of recurrent stroke, death, and cardiovascular events. Their discriminatory performance was modest and further refinements are required for clinical application.
Dabigatran Therapy in Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients Without Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Kate Mahesh , Gioia Laura , Buck Brian , Sivakumar Leka , Jeerakathil Thomas , Shuaib Ashfaq , Butcher Kenneth
Published: July 2015

Background and Purpose—

Acute ischemic stroke patients are at risk of early recurrence. We tested the feasibility and safety of initiating dabigatran in patients, within 24 hours of minor stroke in patients without atrial fibrillation.

Methods—

Minor stroke patients (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score ≤3) without atrial fibrillation and evidence of acute infarction on magnetic resonance imaging were treated with dabigatran. Treatment began within 24 hours of onset and was continued for 30 days. The primary end point was symptomatic hemorrhagic transformation.

Results—

A total of 53 patients with median (interquartile range) age of 68 (57–77) years and National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score of 1 (0–2) were enrolled. Baseline diffusion-weighted imaging volume was 0.8 (0.3–2.4) mL. No patients experienced symptomatic hemorrhagic transformation. Three patients had evidence of asymptomatic petechial hemorrhagic transformation on day 7, which remained stable at day 30, while continuing dabigatran.

Conclusions—

Dabigatran treatment within 24 hours of minor stroke is feasible. A larger randomized trial is required to confirm the safety and efficacy of this treatment approach.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT 01769703.
Revision of the genus Lepidoblepharis (Reptilia: Squamata: Sphaerodactylidae) in Central America, with the description of three new species
Authors: BATISTA ABEL , PONCE MARCOS , VESELY MILAN , MEBERT KONRAD , HERTZ ANDREAS , KÖHLER GUNTHER , CARRIZO ARCADIO , LOTZKAT SEBASTIAN
Published: July 2015

Based on morphological and molecular data, we describe three new species of the genus Lepidoblepharis with granular dorsals from Panama (Lepidoblepharis emberawoundule sp. nov., Lepidoblepharis rufigularis sp. nov., and Lepidoblepharis victormartinezi sp. nov.). The results of our molecular analyses confirm the existence of five deeply differentiated genealogical lineages among Panamanian Lepidoblepharis. We present detailed descriptions of their morphology, including some new valuable scalation characters (ventral and subfemoral escutcheon) and hemipenes, as well as comparisons with the other two species of the genus known to occur in Panama (L. sanctaemartae and L. xanthostigma) and their South American congeners. Last, we provide an updated identification key for the genus Lepidoblepharis in Central America.
New species in the family Ctenidae Keyserling, 1877 from high altitude habitats in Myanmar, with the first case of penetration of the female’s cuticle by a male in the RTA-clade (Arachnida: Araneae: Ctenidae)
Authors: JÄGER PETER , MINN MYIN ZU
Published: July 2015

Specimens of the spider genera Ctenus Walckenaer, 1805 and Anahita Karsch, 1879 from Myanmar were investigated. Three species are described as new to science: Anahita popa spec. nov. (female; Mt Popa), Ctenus natmataung spec. nov. (male, female; Mt Victoria) and C. pingu spec. nov. (male, female; Mt Victoria). The female of C. cladarus Jäger, 2012 is described for the first time. Males of C. natmataung spec. nov. possess an easily breakable tip of their RTA. Two cases are reported where this part was clinging to the epigyne and a pointed appendix had penetrated the female’s cuticle. This is the first such case reported within the RTA-clade. All three Ctenus spp. have very similar copulatory organs and are interpreted as a product of relatively recent speciation events. According to their elevational zonation, the driving factor for this speciation could be different climatic conditions at different elevations.
A New Instrumented Airborne Platform for Atmospheric Research
Authors: Hamill Patrick , Iraci Laura T. , Yates Emma L. , Gore Warren , Bui T. Paul , Tanaka Tomoaki , Loewenstein Max
Published: July 2015

The NASA Ames Research Center operates a new research platform for atmospheric studies: an instrumented Alpha Jet. The present complement of instruments allows for the determination of carbon dioxide, ozone, water vapor, and methane concentrations as well as measurements of three-dimensional wind speeds, temperature, and pressure. Planned future instrumentation includes an Air-Core sampler and an instrument to measure formaldehyde. We give examples of measurements that have been made, including measurements carried out during a downward spiral over an expected methane source. An attractive property of this airborne system is its ability to respond rapidly to unexpected atmospheric events such as large forest fires or severe air quality events.
Influence of Enhanced Abyssal Diapycnal Mixing on Stratification and the Ocean Overturning Circulation
Authors: Mashayek A. , Ferrari R. , Nikurashin M. , Peltier W. R.
Published: July 2015

The meridional overturning circulation (MOC) is composed of interconnected overturning cells that transport cold dense abyssal waters formed at high latitudes back to the surface. Turbulent diapycnal mixing plays a primary role in setting the rate and patterns of the various overturning cells that constitute the MOC. The focus of the analyses in this paper will be on the influence of sharp vertical variations in mixing on the MOC and ocean stratification. Mixing is enhanced close to the ocean bottom topography where internal waves generated by the interaction of tides and geostrophic motions with topography break. It is shown that the sharp vertical variations in mixing lead to the formation of three layers with different dynamical balances governing meridional flow. Specifically, an abyssal bottom boundary layer forms above the ocean floor where mixing is largest and hosts the northward transport of the heaviest waters from the southern channel to the closed basins. A deep layer forms above the bottom layer in which the upwelled waters return south. A third adiabatic layer lies above the other two. While the adiabatic layer has been studied in detail in recent years, the deep and bottom layers are less appreciated. It is shown that the bottom layer, which is not resolved or allowed for in most idealized models, must be present to satisfy the no flux boundary condition at the ocean floor and that its thickness is set by the vertical profile of mixing. The deep layer spans a considerable depth range of the ocean within which the stratification scale is set by mixing, in line with the classic view of Munk in 1966.
Influential Role of Moisture Supply from the Kuroshio/Kuroshio Extension in the Rapid Development of an Extratropical Cyclone
Authors: Hirata Hidetaka , Kawamura Ryuichi , Kato Masaya , Shinoda Taro
Published: July 2015

This study focused on an explosive cyclone migrating along the southern periphery of the Kuroshio/Kuroshio Extension in the middle of January 2013 and examined how those warm currents played an active role in the rapid development of the cyclone using a high-resolution coupled atmosphere–ocean regional model. The evolutions of surface fronts of the simulated cyclone resemble the Shapiro–Keyser model. At the time of the maximum deepening rate, strong mesoscale diabatic heating areas appear over the bent-back front and the warm front east of the cyclone center. Diabatic heating over the bent-back front and the eastern warm front is mainly induced by the condensation of moisture imported by the cold conveyor belt (CCB) and the warm conveyor belt (WCB), respectively. The dry air parcels transported by the CCB can receive large amounts of moisture from the warm currents, whereas the very humid air parcels transported by the WCB can hardly be modified by those currents. The well-organized nature of the CCB plays a key role not only in enhancing surface evaporation from the warm currents but also in importing the evaporated vapor into the bent-back front. The imported vapor converges at the bent-back front, leading to latent heat release. The latent heating facilitates the cyclone’s development through the production of positive potential vorticity in the lower troposphere. Its deepening can, in turn, reinforce the CCB. In the presence of a favorable synoptic-scale environment, such a positive feedback process can lead to the rapid intensification of a cyclone over warm currents.
Thermodynamic Observations and Flux Calculations of the Tropical Cyclone Surface Layer within the Context of Potential Intensity
Authors: Kowaleski Alex M. , Evans Jenni L.
Published: July 2015

Thermodynamic variables including temperature, humidity, and equivalent potential temperature are obtained and calculated from 88 buoy and C-MAN time series of 38 Atlantic hurricanes. Radial profiles of these variables are compared to the tropical cyclone (TC) boundary layer idealization in potential intensity (PI) theory. For the composite hurricane, temperature decreases by 2.4 K between the environmental far field and the radius of maximum winds (RMW), in contrast to the PI boundary layer profile, which is radially isothermal outside the RMW. Observationally derived moisture and equivalent potential temperature (moist entropy) begin to increase with decreasing radius beyond the RMW, especially for the subset of category 3–5 hurricanes. This suggests the relevance of ocean–air fluxes beyond the RMW to increasing the moist entropy of eyewall updrafts. Ocean–air enthalpy fluxes produced by 85 time series with sea surface temperature data are explored using the bulk aerodynamic flux formulation and two methods that explicitly account for sea spray. Formulations incorporating sea spray produce greater total enthalpy fluxes, especially near the RMW. Total enthalpy fluxes calculated using composite observed conditions differ substantially from fluxes calculated using the idealizations of classic PI theory, though the sign of the difference depends on the calculation method used. Observed conditions may yield higher maximum intensities if maximum intensity is governed by the energy production–frictional dissipation balance under the eyewall. However, if TC intensity is governed by the entropy gained by inflow air, no matter where entropy is acquired, observed conditions may yield lower intensities than the classic PI theory boundary layer.
Not “Any Tom, Dick, and Harry”
Authors: Oppenheim Michael
Published: July 2015

Abraham Heschel’s last book includes a critique of Martin Buber, suggesting that Buber insists that God conform to his understanding of what constitutes justice in human history. This article explores whether Heschel’s judgment is justifiable, and whether there is really so much distance between these two prominent modern Jewish philosophers on the topic of theodicy. The conclusion is that Heschel’s critique was both correct and incorrect. At the end of their lives, the Holocaust brought both Jewish philosophers to revolutionary, that is to say, unanticipated and unwanted, insights in their struggle with that Tremendum, which is the Holocaust.
Metacognitive Reading and Study Strategies and Academic Achievement of University Students With and Without a History of Reading Difficulties
Authors: Bergey Bradley W. , Deacon S. Hélène , Parrila Rauno K.
Published: July 2015

University students who report a history of reading difficulties have been demonstrated to have poorer word reading and reading comprehension skills than their peers; yet, without a diagnosed learning disability, these students do not have access to the same support services, potentially placing them at academic risk. This study provides a comprehensive investigation of first-year academic achievement for students with a history of reading difficulties ( n = 244) compared to students with no such history ( n = 603). We also examine reported use of metacognitive reading and study strategies and their relations with GPA. Results indicate that students with a history of reading difficulties earn lower GPA and successfully complete fewer credits compared to students with no history of reading difficulty. These patterns varied somewhat by faculty of study. Students with a history of reading difficulties also reported lower scores across multiple metacognitive reading and study strategy scales, yet these scores were not associated with their academic performance. Together, these results demonstrate the importance of identifying students with a history of reading difficulties and that commonly used study strategy inventories have limited value in predicting their academic success.
From Black Psychology to Sakhu Djaer
Authors: Nobles Wade W.
Published: July 2015

This article traces the historical evolution of African (Black) psychology in the United States and outlines the main components of an African-centered psychology. The article concludes with a call for the formation of Pan African psychology founded on the notion of Spirit or Sakhu and an invitation for African (Black) psychologists to seize the global opportunity to informally and/or where advantageous formally establish a Pan African (Black) Psychology African World Federation Network.
Nostalgia-Evoked Inspiration
Authors: Stephan Elena , Sedikides Constantine , Wildschut Tim , Cheung Wing-Yee , Routledge Clay , Arndt Jamie
Published: July 2015

Six studies examined the nostalgia–inspiration link and its motivational implications. In Study 1, nostalgia proneness was positively associated with inspiration frequency and intensity. In Studies 2 and 3, the recollection of nostalgic (vs. ordinary) experiences increased both general inspiration and specific inspiration to engage in exploratory activities. In Study 4, serial mediational analyses supported a model in which nostalgia increases social connectedness, which subsequently fosters self-esteem, which then boosts inspiration. In Study 5, a rigorous evaluation of this serial mediational model (with a novel nostalgia induction controlling for positive affect) reinforced the idea that nostalgia-elicited social connectedness increases self-esteem, which then heightens inspiration. Study 6 extended the serial mediational model by demonstrating that nostalgia-evoked inspiration predicts goal pursuit (intentions to pursue an important goal). Nostalgia spawns inspiration via social connectedness and attendant self-esteem. In turn, nostalgia-evoked inspiration bolsters motivation.
Remarkable economic growth, but so what? The impacts of modernization on Chinese citizens’ political satisfaction
Authors: Zhai Yida
Published: July 2015

China’s rapid economic development may have dramatic political effects. Modernization theory optimistically anticipates that sustained economic growth will cause increasing public demand for political liberalization and democratization. The degree of Chinese citizens’ political satisfaction with the current state of civil liberties and political rights affects China’s future political development. Empirical findings in this article show that most Chinese citizens show increased satisfaction with their civil liberties and political rights after an improvement in their well-being. Life satisfaction in the economic sphere has a positive spill-over effect on satisfaction with civic and political rights. Satisfaction with civil liberties and political rights is positively connected to satisfaction with the level of democracy in China. The findings do not support the predicted increased demand for liberalization and democratization arising from economic growth. Life satisfaction in economic, social, and individual spheres has a positive spillover effect to the political sphere, generating inflated satisfaction with limited civil and political rights as well as a relatively low level of liberal democracy.
Decision Aids
Authors: Dolan James G. , Cherkasky Olena A. , Chin Nancy , Veazie Peter J.
Published: July 2015

Background. Conscious and unconscious biases can influence how people interpret new information and make decisions. Current standards for creating decision aids, however, do not address this issue. Method. Using a 2×2 factorial design, we developed surveys that contained a decision scenario (involving a choice between aspirin or a statin drug to lower risk of heart attack) and a decision aid. Each aid presented identical information about reduction in heart attack risk and likelihood of a major side effect. They differed in whether the options were labeled and the amount of decisional guidance: information only (a balance sheet) versus information plus values clarification (a multicriteria decision analysis). We sent the surveys to members of 2 Internet survey panels. After using the decision aid, participants indicated their preferred medication. Those using a multicriteria decision aid also judged differences in the comparative outcome data provided for the 2 options and the relative importance of achieving benefits versus avoiding risks in making the decision. Results. The study sample size was 536. Participants using decision aids with unlabeled options were more likely to choose a statin: 56% versus 25% ( P < 0.001). The type of decision aid made no difference. This effect persisted after adjustment for differences in survey company, age, gender, education level, health literacy, and numeracy. Participants using unlabeled decision aids were also more likely to interpret the data presented as favoring a statin with regard to both treatment benefits and risk of side effects ( P ≤ 0.01). There were no significant differences in decision priorities ( P = 0.21). Conclusion. Identifying the options in patient decision aids can influence patient preferences and change how they interpret comparative outcome data.
Formaldehyde exposure inhibits the expression of mammalian target of rapamycin in rat testis
Authors: Fang Jing , Li Dong-hui , Yu Xiao-qing , Lv Mo-qi , Bai Li-zhi , Du Liang-zhi , Zhou Dang-xia
Published: July 2015

Formaldehyde (FA), a ubiquitous environmental pollutant, has long been suspected of causing adverse male reproductive effects. However, the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying this phenomenon remain elusive. The overall aim of this study is to clarify the role of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) in male reproductive injuries induced by FA exposure, by which we can further understand the molecular mechanism of FA male reproductive toxicity. In this study, immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis were used to detect the expression of mTOR molecule in testicular tissues. We found that FA exposure inhibits the expression of mTOR in a dose-dependent manner. Combined with our earlier finding, we found the decreasing expression of mTOR in testicular tissue were consistent with the changes of testicular structure and autophagy levels. In summary, our data suggested that mTOR molecule might be involved in male reproductive injuries induced by FA exposure.
Differential expression of metallothionein-1 and cytochrome p450-2a5 (cyp2a5) in mice in response to lead acetate exposure and industrial effluents in Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Chidinma Ndudi Cyril , Adewale Adebayo , Chiaka Anumudu
Published: July 2015

Metallothionein-1 ( MT-1), cytochrome P450-2A ( CYP2a) and other genes are involved in the detoxification of xenobiotics such as heavy metals and toxins. Changes in their expression precede overt toxic effects and can serve as a marker for exposure to pollutants. We used a mouse experimental system and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction to determine changes in gene expression and the direction of change, in response to exposure to lead acetate (LA) and waste water (WW) from an industrial area in Ibadan. MT-1 and CYP2a5 genes were quickly and highly induced at different exposure periods and concentrations. MT-1 was mostly downregulated by the LA exposure, but upregulated by several folds on exposure to WW. CYP2a5 expression was mostly downregulated with LA exposure. The optimum expression of MT-1 and CYP2a5 genes induced by both LA and WW was at 48 h. We conclude that rapid assays to determine the direction of change in the expression of MT-1 and CYP2a5 could be a fast and reliable method in developing countries for screening humans exposed to pollutants from industrial waste.
The Interface Between Violence, Disability, and Poverty: Stories From a Developing Country
Authors: Neille Joanne , Penn Claire
Published: July 2015

People with disabilities are vulnerable to multiple forms of violence in their everyday lives, including structural violence, deprivation, and physical, emotional, and sexual exploitation. Despite increasing reports of violence against people with disabilities, little is known about this phenomenon, especially in the context of poverty. Furthermore, the various types of violence have traditionally been studied in isolation, which has led to a limited understanding of the nature and persistence of violence in society, and has affected our understanding of the relationship between different forms of violence. In this article, we explore the relationship between violence, disability, and poverty among people living in a rural area of South Africa. Thirty adults with a variety of disabilities living in 12 rural villages in the Mpumalanga Province of South Africa participated in the study. Each of the participants was provided with an opportunity to tell their life story. Narrative inquiry and participant observation were used to explore the ways in which violence pervades the participants’ everyday experiences. Results were analyzed using thematic analysis and suggest that in the context of poverty, it is impossible to separate the experience of disability from the experience of violence. Structural violence was shown to underpin all other forms of interpersonal violence, making persons with disabilities vulnerable to additional forms of exploitation, and serve to further isolate people with disabilities from society, compromising both health and human rights. The findings suggest that an understanding of contextual factors is fundamental to understanding the relationship between violence and disability.
The Association Between Weapon Carrying and Health Risk Behaviors Among Adolescent Students in Bangkok, Thailand
Authors: Saiphoklang On-anong , Wongboonsin Kua , Wongboonsin Patcharawalai , Perngparn Usaneya , Cottler Linda B.
Published: July 2015

Carrying weapons is a significant social and public health problem worldwide, especially among adolescents. The present study examined the association between weapon carrying and related risk behaviors among Thai adolescents. A cross-sectional study of 2,588 high school and vocational school students aged 11 to 19 years from 26 schools in Bangkok, Thailand, was conducted in 2014. This study found that 7.8% of youth reported having carried a weapon in the past 12 months. The high prevalence of weapon carrying was reported by male students, and males were more likely to have reported carrying a weapon than females. The association between weapon carrying and the health risk behaviors like drinking, smoking, any drug use, and physical fighting were significant with higher odds of weapon carrying in all models. Among males, weapon carrying was related to drinking and smoking, any drug use, physical fighting, and school type. Among females, suicidal thoughts were significantly related along with drinking and smoking, any drug use, and physical fighting. Having a mother who used substances was significant only among females. These data could be used for further interventions about weapon carrying to reduce violence.
The Dark Figure of Stalking: Examining Law Enforcement Response
Authors: Brady Patrick Q. , Nobles Matt R.
Published: July 2015

Despite the growing body of scholarship on stalking victimization, the criminal justice system’s response has been substantially understudied. Although scholars consider stalking to be a significant issue, its prevalence is not echoed in official data representing stalking arrests and convictions. The disparity between prevalence estimates and official data reinforces a “dark figure” of stalking that warrants further examination. To develop a better understanding of underreporting and/or underrecording, this exploratory study used official data from the Houston Police Department to examine police response to stalking. Findings indicated that, compared with other interpersonal crimes, incidents of stalking are dramatically underrecorded. Over an 8-year period, there were a total of 3,756 stalking calls for service, 66 stalking-related incident reports, and only 12 arrests for stalking. However, not one of the stalking calls for service generated a stalking-related incident report nor an arrest for stalking. Of the stalking calls for service that did generate an incident report, the large majority of the reports were classified as either harassment or a violation of a protective order. Furthermore, incident reports and arrests for stalking generally emerged from calls for service for harassment or terroristic threats. Implications for research and policy are discussed.
LGBTQ Alumni Philanthropy
Authors: Drezner Noah D. , Garvey Jason C.
Published: July 2015

Using a constructivist case study analysis, we explore philanthropy toward higher education among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) alumni, examining how a person’s LGBTQ identity and experiences (un)consciously affects his, her, or hir1 decision to give philanthropically. Data come from focus groups with 37 advancement staff and 23 LGBTQ alumni at two research extensive universities. Findings reveal unconscious influences of LGBTQ identities on giving, importance of campus climate for LGBTQ individuals, and LGBTQ alumni affinity group involvement. We draw implications from our findings, discussing the need to create a warm campus climate for current students, increase and encourage involvement within LGBTQ affinity groups, systematize data collection to include LGBTQ identities, and develop culturally sensitive solicitations.
Computational fluid dynamics simulation of rail vehicles in crosswind: Application in norms and standards
Authors: Sima Mikael , Eichinger Sandor , Blanco Ander , Ali Irfan
Published: July 2015

The application of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to the determination of aerodynamic coefficients for crosswind stability in the context of vehicle assessment has been studied as part of the AeroTRAIN project. The work consisted in establishing best practice guidelines for the use of standard Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) approaches using a streamlined and less-streamlined vehicle, project partners applying different computational codes and turbulence models to a common vehicle, and then application to further vehicles in order to cover a range of different vehicles and yaw angles. The simulations were complimented with wind tunnel measurements to allow the accuracy of standard RANS approaches to be judged for various vehicle shapes and yaw angles. This paper summarises the overall results and the recommendations made for the use of CFD in vehicle assessment of crosswind stability in relation to the EN 14067-6: 2010 standard. The main aspects of the guidelines are reported in a separate paper in this special issue. The considered standard allows the use of CFD for vehicle speeds up to a maximum of 200 km/h whereas the HS RST TSI (2008) only allows aerodynamic coefficients to be determined using wind tunnel measurements. The obtained results show that a well-performed RANS CFD can predict the aerodynamic coefficient of streamlined trains with a relatively high accuracy. The challenges increase for blunter-shaped trains and may be further influenced by equipment installed on the roof of a train. Combined with the developed simulation guidelines it is considered that CFD can be used as an alternative to wind tunnel tests in all cases provided that the accuracy of the approach is validated on a benchmark train with similar features to those of the simulated train.