bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Arsenic in Drinking Water and Lung Cancer Mortality in the United States: An Analysis Based on US Counties and 30 Years of Observation (1950–1979)
Authors: Ferdosi Hamid , Dissen Elisabeth K. , Afari-Dwamena Nana Ama , Li Ji , Chen Rusan , Feinleib Manning , Lamm Steven H.
Published: June 2016

Background.To examine whether the US EPA (2010) lung cancer risk estimate derived from the high arsenic exposures (10–934 µg/L) in southwest Taiwan accurately predicts the US experience from low arsenic exposures (3–59 µg/L).Methods. Analyses have been limited to US counties solely dependent on underground sources for their drinking water supply with median arsenic levels of ≥3 µg/L.Results. Cancer risks (slopes) were found to be indistinguishable from zero for males and females. The addition of arsenic level did not significantly increase the explanatory power of the models. Stratified, or categorical, analysis yielded relative risks that hover about 1.00. The unit risk estimates were nonpositive and not significantly different from zero, and the maximum (95% UCL) unit risk estimates for lung cancer were lower than those in US EPA (2010).Conclusions. These data do not demonstrate an increased risk of lung cancer associated with median drinking water arsenic levels in the range of 3–59 µg/L. The upper-bound estimates of the risks are lower than the risks predicted from the SW Taiwan data and do not support those predictions. These results are consistent with a recent metaregression that indicated no increased lung cancer risk for arsenic exposures below 100–150 µg/L.
Existence of Solutions for a Robin Problem Involving thep(x)-Laplace Operator
Authors: Allaoui Mostafa
Published: June 2016

In this article we study the nonlinear Robin boundary-value problem-Δp(x)u=f(x,u)  in  Ω,|∇u|px-2(∂u/∂ν)+β(x)up(x)-2u=0on∂Ω. Using the variational method, under appropriate assumptions onf, we obtain results on existence and multiplicity of solutions.
Mutation in LEMD3 (Man1) Associated with Osteopoikilosis and Late-Onset Generalized Morphea: A New Buschke-Ollendorf Syndrome Variant
Authors: Korman Benjamin , Wei Jun , Laumann Anne , Ferguson Polly , Varga John
Published: June 2016

Introduction. Buschke-Ollendorf syndrome (BOS) is an uncommon syndrome characterized by osteopoikilosis and other bone abnormalities, accompanied by skin lesions, most frequently connective tissue nevi. BOS is caused by mutations in theLEMD3gene, which encodes the inner nuclear membrane protein Man1. We describe a unique case of osteopoikilosis associated with late-onset localized scleroderma and familialLEMD3mutations.Case Report. A 72-year-old woman presented with adult-onset diffuse morphea and bullous skin lesions. Evaluation revealed multiple hyperostotic lesions (osteopoikilosis) suggestive of BOS. DNA sequencing identified a previously undescribed nonsense mutation (Trp621X) in theLEMD3gene encoding Man1. Two additional family members were found to have osteopoikilosis and carry the sameLEMD3mutation.Conclusions and Relevance. We report a unique familialLEMD3mutation in an individual with osteopoikilosis and late-onset morphea. We propose that this constellation represents a novel syndromic variant of BOS.
Long-Term Fracture Resistance of Simulated Immature Teeth Filled with Various Calcium Silicate-Based Materials
Authors: Guven Yeliz , Tuna Elif Bahar , Dincol M. Emir , Ozel Emre , Yilmaz Bulent , Aktoren Oya
Published: June 2016

Objective. The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the long-term fracture resistance of simulated human immature permanent teeth filled with BioAggregate™(BA), mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), and EndoSequence® Root Repair Material (ERRM).Material and Methods. 40 teeth, simulated to average root length of13±1 mm (Cvek’s stage 3), were included in the study. The teeth were randomly divided into four groups: Group 1:DiaRoot® BA, Group 2: MTA-Plus™(MTA-P), Group 3: MTA-Angelus (MTA-A), and Group 4: ERRM. The root canal filling materials were applied according to the manufacturers’ instructions. After 24 months of incubation, the roots of the teeth were embedded in acrylic blocks and subjected to fracture testing. The resultant data were analyzed statistically by Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-WhitneyUtests.Results. Mean (±SD) failure loads (MPa) were20.46±2.53for BA,18.88±5.13for MTA-P,14.12±1.99for MTA-A, and17.65±4.28for ERRM groups. BA group exhibited the highest and MTA-A group showed the lowest resistance to fracture. Significant differences in fracture resistance were found between the groups of BA and MTA-A (p<0.001), MTA-P and MTA-A (p<0.05), and ERRM and MTA-A (p<0.05).Conclusion. Within the limitations of this study, data suggests that BA-filled immature teeth demonstrate higher fracture resistance than other groups at 24 months appearing to be the most promising material tested.
Computer-Aided Diagnosis of Micro-Malignant Melanoma Lesions Applying Support Vector Machines
Authors: Jaworek-Korjakowska Joanna
Published: June 2016

Background. One of the fatal disorders causing death is malignant melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. The aim of the modern dermatology is the early detection of skin cancer, which usually results in reducing the mortality rate and less extensive treatment. This paper presents a study on classification of melanoma in the early stage of development using SVMs as a useful technique for data classification.Method. In this paper an automatic algorithm for the classification of melanomas in their early stage, with a diameter under 5 mm, has been presented. The system contains the following steps: image enhancement, lesion segmentation, feature calculation and selection, and classification stage using SVMs.Results. The algorithm has been tested on 200 images including 70 melanomas and 130 benign lesions. The SVM classifier achieved sensitivity of 90% and specificity of 96%. The results indicate that the proposed approach captured most of the malignant cases and could provide reliable information for effective skin mole examination.Conclusions. Micro-melanomas due to the small size and low advancement of development create enormous difficulties during the diagnosis even for experts. The use of advanced equipment and sophisticated computer systems can help in the early diagnosis of skin lesions.
Stress Detection Using Low Cost Heart Rate Sensors
Authors: Salai Mario , Vassányi István , Kósa István
Published: June 2016

The automated detection of stress is a central problem for ambient assisted living solutions. The paper presents the concepts and results of two studies targeted at stress detection with a low cost heart rate sensor, a chest belt. In the device validation study (n=5), we compared heart rate data and other features from the belt to those measured by a gold standard device to assess the reliability of the sensor. With simple synchronization and data cleaning algorithm, we were able to select highly (>97%) correlated, low average error (2.2%) data segments of considerable length from the chest data for further processing. The protocol for the clinical study (n=46) included a relax phase followed by a phase with provoked mental stress, 10 minutes each. We developed a simple method for the detection of the stress using only three time-domain features of the heart rate signal. The method produced accuracy of 74.6%, sensitivity of 75.0%, and specificity of 74.2%, which is impressive compared to the performance of two state-of-the-art methods run on the same data. Since the proposed method uses only time-domain features, it can be efficiently implemented on mobile devices.
Research on Maritime Radio Wave Multipath Propagation Based on Stochastic Ray Method
Authors: Wang Han , Du Wencai
Published: June 2016

Multipath effect in vessel communication is caused by a combination of reflections from the sea surface and vessels. This paper proposes employing stochastic ray method to analyze maritime multipath propagation properties. The paper begins by modeling maritime propagation environment of radio waves as random lattice grid, by utilizing maximum entropy principle to calculate the probability of stochastic ray undergoingktime(s) reflection(s), and by using stochastic process to produce the basic random variables. Then, the paper constructs the multipath channel characteristic parameters, including amplitude gain, time delay, and impulse response, based on the basic random variables. Finally, the paper carries out a digital simulation in two-dimensional specific fishery fleet model environment. The statistical properties of parameters, including amplitude response, probability delay distribution, and power delay profiles, are obtained. Using these parameters, the paper calculates the root-mean-squared (rms) delay spread value with the amount of 9.64 μs. It is a good reference for the research of maritime wireless transmission rate of the vessels. It contributes to a better understanding of the causes and effects of multipath effect in vessel communication.
Prevalence and Correlates of Pain in People Aged 60 Years and above in Singapore: Results from the WiSE Study
Authors: Satghare Pratika , Chong Siow Ann , Vaingankar Janhavi , Picco Louisa , Abdin Edimansyah , Chua Boon Yiang , Subramaniam Mythily
Published: June 2016

Background. Although pain is experienced among people of all ages, there is a need to study its risk factors and impact among older adults.Aims. The study sought to determine the prevalence, sociodemographics, and clinical correlates of pain along with association of pain with disability among older adults in Singapore.Methods. The WiSE study was a comprehensive cross-sectional, single phase, epidemiological survey conducted among the elderly aged 60 years and above and used a nationally representative sample of three main ethnic groups in Singapore: Chinese, Malays, and Indians. The survey administered 10/66 protocol pain questionnaire, sociodemographic questionnaire, health status questionnaire, World Health Organization Disability Assessment Scale (WHODAS 2.0), and Geriatric Mental State (GMS) examination.Results. A total of 2565 respondents completed the study giving a response rate of 65.5%. The prevalence of pain among the elderly aged 60 years and above is 19.5 %. Females, incomplete primary education Indians, and those diagnosed with any chronic health condition were associated with risk of pain and disability.Conclusion. Study findings showed that disability related to pain among the elderly is considerable making it a priority to reduce the morbidity and disability among the elderly with pain.
Pexmetinib: A Novel Dual Inhibitor of Tie2 and p38 MAPK with Efficacy in Preclinical Models of Myelodysplastic Syndromes and Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Bachegowda Lohith , Morrone Kerry , Winski Shannon L. , Mantzaris Ioannis , Bartenstein Matthias , Ramachandra Nandini , Giricz Orsi , Sukrithan Vineeth , Nwankwo George , Shahnaz Samira , Bhagat Tushar D. , Bhattacharyya Sanchari , Assal Amer , Shastri Aditi , Gordon-Mitchell Shanisha , Pellagatti Andrea , Boultwood Jacqueline , Schinke Carolina , Yu Yiting , Guha Chandan , Rizzi James , Garrus Jennifer , Brown Suzy , Wollenberg Lance , Hogeland Grant , Wright Dale , Munson Mark , Rodriguez Mareli , Gross Stefan , Chantry David , Zou Yiyu , Platanias Leonidas C. , Burgess Laurence E. , Pradhan Kith , Steidl Ulrich , Verma Amit
Published: June 2016

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) suppress normal hematopoietic activity in part by enabling a pathogenic inflammatory milieu in the bone marrow. In this report, we show that elevation of angiopoietin-1 in myelodysplastic CD34+ stem-like cells is associated with higher risk disease and reduced overall survival in MDS and AML patients. Increased angiopoietin-1 expression was associated with a transcriptomic signature similar to known MDS/AML stem-like cell profiles. In seeking a small-molecule inhibitor of this pathway, we discovered and validated pexmetinib (ARRY-614), an inhibitor of the angiopoietin-1 receptor Tie-2, which was also found to inhibit the proinflammatory kinase p38 MAPK (which is overactivated in MDS). Pexmetinib inhibited leukemic proliferation, prevented activation of downstream effector kinases, and abrogated the effects of TNFα on healthy hematopoietic stem cells. Notably, treatment of primary MDS specimens with this compound stimulated hematopoiesis. Our results provide preclinical proof of concept for pexmetinib as a Tie-2/p38 MAPK dual inhibitor applicable to the treatment of MDS/AML. Cancer Res; 76(16); 4841–9. ©2016 AACR.
IKBKE Is a Substrate of EGFR and a Therapeutic Target in Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer with Activating Mutations of EGFR
Authors: Challa Sridevi , Guo Jian-Ping , Ding Xiaowen , Xu Cheng-Xiong , Li Yajuan , Kim Donghwa , Smith Matthew A. , Cress Douglas W. , Coppola Domenico , Haura Eric B. , Cheng Jin Q.
Published: June 2016

Non–small cell lung cancers (NSCLC) marked by EGFR mutations tend to develop resistance to therapeutic EGFR inhibitors, often due to secondary mutation EGFRT790M but also other mechanisms. Here we report support for a rationale to target IKBKE, an IκB kinase family member that activates the AKT and NF-κB pathways, as one strategy to address NSCLC resistant to EGFR inhibitors. While wild-type and mutant EGFR directly interacted with IKBKE, only mutant EGFR phosphorylated IKBKE on residues Y153 and Y179. The unphosphorylatable mutant IKBKE-Y153F/Y179-F that lost kinase activity failed to activate AKT and inhibited EGFR signaling. In clinical specimens of NSCLC with activating mutations of EGFR, we observed elevated levels of phospho-Y153 IKBKE. IKBKE ablation with shRNA or small-molecule inhibitor amlexanox selectively inhibited the viability of NSCLC cells with EGFR mutations in vitro. In parallel, we found that these treatments activated the MAPK pathway due to attenuation of an IKBKE feedback mechanism. In vivo studies revealed that combining amlexanox with MEK inhibitor AZD6244 significantly inhibited the xenograft tumor growth of NSCLC cells harboring activating EGFR mutations, including EGFRT790M. Overall, our findings define IKBKE as a direct effector target of EGFR and provide a therapeutic rationale to target IKBKE as a strategy to eradicate EGFR-TKI–resistant NSCLC cells. Cancer Res; 76(15); 4418–29. ©2016 AACR.
Vitrectomy for Tractional Retinal Detachment with Twin Retinal Capillary Hemangiomas in a Patient with Von Hippel-Lindau Disease: A Case Report
Authors: Suzuki Hiroyuki , Kakurai Keigo , Morishita Seita , Kimura Daisaku , Fukumoto Masanori , Sato Takaki , Kida Teruyo , Ueki Mari , Sugasawa Jun , Ikeda Tsunehiko
Published: June 2016

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to report a case of Von Hippel-Lindau disease (VHL) with twin retinal capillary hemangiomas that was successfully treated by vitreous surgery for tractional retinal detachment following laser photocoagulation. Case: A 44-year-old male presented at our university hospital after noticing decreased visual acuity in his right eye. The patient had previously undergone multiple operations for cerebellar, thoracic, and lumbar spine hemangioblastomas when he was approximately 19 years old. Upon initial examination, ocular findings revealed twin connected retinal capillary hemangiomas around the temporal upper area of the patient’s right eye. The patient was subsequently diagnosed with VHL based on his medical history and current observations of the ocular fundus. Tractional retinal detachment had occurred as the result of the formation of proliferative membranes following laser photocoagulation. The patient underwent vitreous surgery to treat the tractional retinal detachment, resulting in a successful postoperative outcome. Conclusion: The findings of this study show the possibility that proliferative changes and tractional retinal detachment can arise following photocoagulation for retinal capillary hemangiomas in patients with VHL.
A Pediatric Case of Acute Generalized Pustular Eruption without Streptococcal Infection
Authors: Tabata Nobuko , Yoshizawa Hideka
Published: June 2016

Generalized pustular lesions characterized by acute onset with fever occur in pustulosis acuta generalisata, acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis, and generalized pustular psoriasis. In the present report, we describe a pediatric case of generalized pustular eruption that was not completely consistent with clinical features. Our patient had no evidence of a post-streptococcal infection. We observed scattered symmetric eruption of discrete pustules with an inflammatory halo on normal skin. The eruption was absent on her palms and soles of the feet. To the best of our knowledge, there are no reports in the English literature of cases with clinical features similar to those of our patient.
Does Transient Cessation of Antiplatelet Medication Prior to Shock Wave Lithotripsy Have Any Safety Concern: Evaluation of the Short Term Safety Results
Authors: Goktas Cemal , Sahin Cahit , Cetinel Ali Cihangir , Turkoglu Ozlem , Buz Ayse , Erbay Erkan , Eryildirim Bilal , Sarica Kemal
Published: June 2016

Objective: The study aimed to evaluate the true safety of transient cessation of the antiplatelet medication before extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) on bleeding-related complications. Patients and Methods: Forty cases undergoing SWL for renal pelvic stones were included and depending on the use of antiplatelet medication they were divided into 2 groups namely: group 1, cases under antiplatelet medication in whom the medication was stopped before ESWL; and group 2, cases without any antiplatelet medication. Comparative evaluation of patient, stone and treatment-related parameters were done in both groups. Results: Although microscopic hematuria was present in all cases, the incidence of macroscopic hematuria was higher in cases undergoing antiplatelet medication when compared with the other cases. Regarding the microscopic hematuria again, the mean number erythrocytes per field of analysis was significantly higher in group 1 cases. The mean value of the hematoma size was similar in both groups. Conclusion: Our findings indicate that SWL can be applied safely in patients under antiplatelet therapy following the cessation of medication for a certain period of time. However, among the cases treated with this concept in our study, we clearly observed that the incidence of procedure-related hematoma formation and macroscopic hematuria were more common in such cases than in the normal ones.
A Tale of Two Patients
Authors: Kressin Nancy R. , Chapman Sheila E. , Magnani Jared W.
Published: June 2016

The disparate effects of social determinants of health on cardiovascular health status and health care have been extensively documented by epidemiology. Yet, very little attention has been paid to how understanding and addressing social determinants of health might improve the quality of clinical interactions, especially by improving patients’ adherence to recommended therapies. We present a case and suggested approach to illustrate how cardiovascular clinicians can use patient-centered approaches to identify and address social determinants of health barriers to adherence and reduce the impact of unconscious clinician biases. We propose that cardiovascular clinicians (1) recognize that patients may have different belief systems about illnesses’ cause and treatment, which may influence their actions, and not assume they share one’s experiences or explanatory model; (2) Endeavor to understand the individual patient before you; (3) based on that understanding, tailor your approach to that individual. We suggest a previously-developed mnemonic for an approach to RESPECT the patient: First, show Respect; then elicit patients’ understandings of their illness by asking about their Explanatory model. Ask about the patient’s Social context, share Power in the interaction, show Empathy, ask about Concerns or fears, and work to develop Trust by building the relationship over time. We provide additional clinical resources to support these efforts, including lay descriptions of cardiovascular conditions, challenges to adherence, and suggested strategies to address them.
Defining the Threshold of Permissible Risk for Non-therapeutic Clinical Trials with Children in Europe
Authors: Wade* Katherine
Published: June 2016

It is important that clinical research with children is encouraged so that they are not exposed to the dangers of extrapolation from adult treatments. Clinical trials with investigational medicinal products (imps) are an important part of improving medical care for children. Both the 2001 Clinical Trials Directive and the 2014 Regulation recognise the need for such research, including the need for non-therapeutic trials with imps. However, it is also recognised that a balance must be struck between permitting tailored medical care for children as a group on the one hand, and protecting individual trial participants from harm on the other. A central issue in striking this balance relates to defining the threshold of risk which should be permitted in such research. This article provides a critical analysis of the current European law in relation to the definition of acceptable risk for non-therapeutic clinical trials with imps and makes recommendations for reform, drawing on law from the Council of Europe, as well as law from the us.
A new species of Dudgeodes Sartori, 2008 (Ephemeroptera: Teloganodidae) from Thailand
Authors: MARTYNOV ALEXANDER V. , PALATOV DMITRY M. , BOONSOONG BOONSATIEN
Published: June 2016

A new species of the genus Dudgeodes Sartori, 2008 is described from Thailand. It is the first representative of the genus reported from this country. The species is described based on mature nymphs. Dudgeodes romani sp. nov. differs from other species of the genus by the length of antennae; coloration of male eyes; shape of abdominal median tubercles; features of the tarsal claws, forefemora, gills and segments of the labial palps, and by chaetotaxy.
Re-description of Echiniscus cavagnaroi Schuster & Grigarick, 1966 (Tardigrada: Heterotardigrada: Echiniscoidea: Echiniscidae) from type material, with new records from Hawaii and Bermuda
Authors: MEYER HARRY A.
Published: June 2016

The description of Echiniscus cavagnaroi Schuster & Grigarick, 1966 (Tardigrada: Heterotardigrada: Echiniscoidea: Echiniscidae) is emended with new morphometric measurements of the holotype and eleven paratypes. The length of Cirrus A in the holotype (25.2 μm) was only half the 50 μm reported in the original description. Moreover, the largest values for Cirrus A length and Cirrus A to body length ratio for any specimen (40.6 μm, 21%) were also lower than in the original description. Variation in the presence or absence of spines was considerably greater than originally described. Spines C, Dd and E were not present on all specimens (C present in 67%, Dd in 67%, E in 50%). The length of spines Dd and E, when present, varied greatly among specimens. The geographical range of E. cavagnaroi is expanded by new records from the Hawaiian Islands and Bermuda. The species has been reported from southern China; however, the published description of these specimens differs markedly from type specimens in several respects. The presence of E. cavagnaroi sensu stricto in China needs to be confirmed. The high variability in presence or absence and length of spines in Echiniscus cavagnaroi underscores the importance of assessing variability in these characteristics when identifying unknown specimens or describing new species in the genus. This requires using as many specimens as possible and fully reporting variability.
Two new dwarfgobies from the Indian and Western Pacific Oceans (Teleostei: Gobiidae: Eviota)
Authors: GREENFIELD DAVID W. , JEWETT SUSAN L.
Published: June 2016

Two new species of dwarfgobies are described, Eviota asymbasia from the Sulu Sea, Philippine Islands, south to Java and west to Damar, and E. bipunctata occurring from the Indian Ocean eastward into the western Pacific Ocean. Eviota asymbasia lacks the IT pore of the cephalic sensory-pore system and usually also the POP, has a dorsal/anal-fin formula of 8/8, has some pectoral-fin rays branched and usually 15 rays, two spots on the pectoral-fin base, no dark spot over the preural centrum, first dorsal fin may be filamentous, six ventral postanal spots, and the male genital papilla is not fimbriate. Eviota bipunctata belongs to the group with cephalic sensory-pore system pattern 2 (lacking only the IT pore), some pectoral-fin rays branched, pectoral-fin base with 1 or 2 prominent dark spots, dorsal/anal-fin formula usually 8/8, and no occipital spots.
Analytical Infrared Delta-Four-Stream Adding Method from Invariance Principle
Authors: Zhang Feng , Wu Kun , Li Jiangnan , Yang Quan , Zhao Jian-Qi , Li Jian
Published: June 2016

The single-layer solutions using a four-stream discrete ordinates method (DOM) in infrared radiative transfer (IRT) have been obtained. Two types of thermal source assumptions—Planck function exponential and linear dependence on optical depth—are considered. To calculate the IRT in multiple layers with a vertically inhomogeneous atmosphere, an analytical adding algorithm has been developed by applying the infrared invariance principle. The derived adding algorithm of the delta-four-stream DOM (δ-4DDA) can be simplified to work for the delta-two-stream DOM (δ-2DDA).

The accuracy for monochromatic emissivity is investigated for both δ-2DDA and δ-4DDA. The relative error for the downward emissivity can be as high as 15% for δ-2DDA, while the error is bounded by 2% for δ-4DDA. By incorporating δ-4DDA into a radiation model with gaseous transmission, δ-4DDA is much more accurate than δ-2DDA. Also, δ-4DDA is much more efficient, since it is an analytical method. The computing time of δ-4DDA is about one-third of the corresponding inverse matrix method.
Effects of a Warming Climate on Daily Snowfall Events in the Northern Hemisphere
Authors: Danco James F. , DeAngelis Anthony M. , Raney Bryan K. , Broccoli Anthony J.
Published: June 2016

Using simulations performed with 24 coupled atmosphere–ocean global climate models from phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5), projections of Northern Hemisphere daily snowfall events under the RCP8.5 emissions scenario are analyzed for the periods of 2021–50 and 2071–2100 and compared to the historical period of 1971–2000. The overall frequency of daily snowfall events is simulated to decrease across much of the Northern Hemisphere, except at the highest latitudes such as northern Canada, northern Siberia, and Greenland. Seasonal redistributions of daily snowfall event frequency and average daily snowfall are also projected to occur in some regions. For example, large portions of the Northern Hemisphere, including much of Canada, Tibet, northern Scandinavia, northern Siberia, and Greenland, are projected to experience increases in average daily snowfall and event frequency in midwinter. But in warmer months, the regions with increased snowfall become fewer in number and are limited to northern Canada, northern Siberia, and Greenland. These simulations also show changes in the frequency distribution of daily snowfall event intensity, including an increase in heavier snowfall events even in some regions where the overall snowfall decreases. The projected changes in daily snowfall event frequency exhibit some dependence on the temperature biases of the individual models in certain regions and times of the year, with colder models typically toward the positive end of the distribution of event frequency changes and warmer models toward the negative end, particularly in regions near the transition zone between increasing and decreasing snowfall.
Azimuthal and Radial Variation of Wind-Generated Surface Waves inside Tropical Cyclones
Authors: Hwang Paul A. , Walsh Edward J.
Published: June 2016

For wind-generated waves, the wind-wave triplets (reference wind speed, significant wave height, and spectral peak wave period) are intimately connected through the fetch- or duration-limited wave growth functions. The full set of the triplets can be obtained knowing only one of the three, together with the input of fetch (duration) information using the pair of fetch-limited (duration limited) wave growth functions. The air–sea energy and momentum exchanges are functions of the wind-wave triplets, and they can be quantified with the wind-wave growth functions. Previous studies have shown that the wave development inside hurricanes follows essentially the same growth functions established for steady wind forcing conditions. This paper presents the analysis of wind-wave triplets collected inside Hurricane Bonnie 1998 at category 2 stage along 10 transects radiating from the hurricane center. A fetch model is formulated for any location inside the hurricane. Applying the fetch model to the 2D hurricane wind field, the detailed spatial distribution of the wave field and the associated energy and momentum exchanges inside the hurricane are investigated. For the case studied, the energy and momentum exchanges display two local maxima resulting from different weightings of wave age and wind speed. Referenced to the hurricane heading, the exchanges on the right half plane of the hurricane are much stronger than those on the left half plane. Integrated over the hurricane coverage area, the right-to-left ratio is about 3:1 for both energy and momentum exchanges. Computed exchange rates with and without considering wave properties differ significantly.
Sexuality education in South African schools: The challenge for civil society organisations
Authors: Adams Tucker Leigh , George Gavin , Reardon Candice , Panday Saadhna
Published: June 2016

Objective:

Drawing on the perceptions of various key stakeholders, the paper explores the strengths and limitations of involving civil society organisations in the delivery of HIV and AIDS and sexuality education in South African schools.

Design:

Qualitative study with a cross-sectional design.

Setting:

Research was conducted at 16 public secondary schools in KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng and Mpumalanga provinces in South Africa.

Methods:

Focus group discussions were held with Grade 9 and 11 learners, aged 14–18 years, and interviews with Life Orientation educators, Heads of Department and local civil society organisations.

Results:

School engagement with civil society organisations may include (1) the delivery of life skills programmes and talks, (2) assisting learners with accessing support services, and (3) the provision of teaching resources for Life Orientation educators and schools. The involvement of external organisations was often favoured for the youthful age of facilitators, shared personal experiences, novel learning activities and the overall separateness from schooling structures whereby personal disclosure or the provision of services were unlikely to influence school functioning. On-site Life Orientation educators were favoured for their consistent availability and familiarity, discipline, teaching experience and classroom management skills.

Conclusion:

Opportunities exist for collaboration between Life Orientation educators and civil society organisations in the future delivery of sexuality education. Potential partnerships may allow mutual expertise to be harnessed and alleviation of time and resource pressures. However, collaboration requires dialogue to clarify roles and to minimise resistance in schools. Effective monitoring and evaluation at a national or provincial level is also needed to help schools assessing the suitability of particular civil society organisations.
Developing a mind–body exercise programme for stressed children
Authors: Wang Claudia , Seo Dong-Chul , Geib Roy W
Published: June 2016

Objective:

To describe the process of developing a Health Qigong programme for stressed children using a formative evaluation approach.

Methods:

A multi-step formative evaluation method was utilised. These steps included (1) identifying programme content and drafting the curriculum, (2) synthesising effective and age-appropriate pedagogies, (3) consulting an expert panel, (4) teaching pilot lessons and soliciting feedback from students and (5) revising and finalising the programme.

Results:

A total of 16 theme-based lessons were generated in order to help children manage stress by imitating interesting plants and animals, such as sunflowers, pine trees, white cranes, tigers, sleeping lions and deer. Five age-appropriate teaching strategies were synthesised to make the programme fun and enjoyable for children. These included (1) using theme-based lesson plans, (2) building mind–body connections, (3) balancing repetition and creativity, (4) interweaving pictures, stories, volunteers and teamwork and (5) involving parents and school teachers. Modifications based on feedback from the expert panel and students were incorporated to make the programme relevant to elementary school settings.

Conclusion:

This Health Qigong for Stressed Children programme appears effective in reducing stress over a 16-week period. Future studies should explore the efficacy and wider applicability of the programme with a larger and more diverse population of children.
The indeterminacy of ‘temporariness’: Control and power in neo-bureaucratic organizations and work in UK television
Authors: Morris Jonathan , Farrell Catherine , Reed Mike
Published: June 2016

Whereas historically the UK television industry has been characterized by hierarchy and vertical integration of programme production within a few large broadcasters, new neo-bureaucratic temporary organizational forms have proliferated in the industry in the past 20 years. This has been a product of a variety of factors, including globalization, technological change in the industry, deregulation and cost-cutting. This article draws on research involving 75 participants working in the large broadcasters, independents and as freelancers. The temporary form in the industry is an extreme case, in that they can be of very short duration (under a week). This has far-reaching implications for industry coordination and control. However, these forms are far from ‘one-offs’ and they are continuously reinvented and recast. This neo-bureaucratic form is controlled and regulated by the major producers through a set of powerful normative methods, based partly on an evolving custom and practice, but also in the extreme familiarity of people in the industry, across the large broadcasters, the independents and freelancers. The article evaluates how the structures, processes and coordination of these organizations through the manipulation of social capital in the industry are used to regulate and control a set of confused and ‘messy’ temporary arrangements.
Economic Inequalities in Latin America at the Base of Adverse Health Indicators
Authors: Ferre Juan Cruz
Published: June 2016

There is increasing evidence supporting the existence of a link between income inequalities and health outcomes. The main purpose of this article is to test whether economic inequalities are associated with poor population health in Latin American countries. Multi-country data from 1970 to 2012 were used to assess this question. The results show that the Gini coefficient has a strong correlation with health outcomes. Moreover, multiple linear regression analysis using fixed effects shows that after controlling for gross national income per capita, literacy rate, and health expenditure, the Gini coefficient is independently negatively associated with health outcomes. In Latin American countries, for every percentage point increase in the Gini coefficient, the infant mortality rate grows by 0.467 deaths per 1,000 live births, holding all other variables constant. Additionally, an ordinary least squares estimation model suggests that countries that do not use International Monetary Fund loans perform better on health outcomes. These findings should alert policymakers, elected officials, and the public of the need to fight income inequalities and rethink the role of international financial institutions that dictate state policies.
Fatigue properties of expanded perlite/aluminum syntactic foams
Authors: Taherishargh Mehdi , Katona Bálint , Fiedler Thomas , Orbulov Imre Norbert
Published: June 2016

The main purpose of this paper is to present the basic fatigue properties of metal matrix syntactic foams. The investigated syntactic foams consisting of expanded perlite and A356 aluminum matrix were produced using an inert gas pressure infiltration technique. The obtained foams were subjected to cyclic compressive loading in order to investigate their fatigue properties. The standard procedure for cyclic fatigue testing was slightly modified to account for the variation of porosity and strength which is typical for metallic foam samples. This approach allows the direct comparison of the fatigue test results between all investigated samples. Depending on the applied load level, two different failure mechanisms were identified that resulted in characteristic deformation – loading cycle curves. The failure mechanisms were further investigated on the microstructural scale: traces of fatigue beachmarks and extensive plastic deformation were found. Furthermore, Wöhler-like deformation – lifetime diagrams were created in order to predict the expected lifetime of the properties of metal matrix syntactic foams .
Assessing reuse of degraded Pleurotus ostreatus (Jacq.) P. Kumm. substrate
Authors: Picornell-Buendía Mª Raquel , Pardo-Giménez Arturo , de Juan-Valero José Arturo
Published: June 2016

In this article, the agronomic viability of reusing spent Pleurotus ostreatus substrates (SPS) previously used in a mushroom crop is studied using two commercial nutritional supplements at two different doses. After physical and chemical characterization of the substrates, we evaluated the quantitative production parameters in a single growing season. The best agronomic performance was observed with substrates supplemented with Calprozime® at doses of 20 and 10 g/kg, providing high values of biological efficiency (BE) at 41.8 and 35.0 g/100 kg substrate, respectively, much like the commercial substrate used as a control for most of the parameters considered. If SPS could be available at low cost, then it could be integrated into new formulations and methodologies, thus helping to diminish the environmental impact of the waste produced during mushroom cultivation as well as limiting the grower’s dependence on straw and decreasing the environmental impact of its accumulation.
Assessing changes in availability of land and water for food (1960–2050)
Authors: Ibarrola Rivas M.J. , Nonhebel S.
Published: June 2016

Future global food demand will require more land and water. We group the global population into six “Gross Domestic Product groups” and study changes in the availability of land and water for food in relation to demographic and nutrition transition theories. We show large differences in land and water availability between rich and poor countries. Inequality will strongly increase due to the projected large population growth in poor countries. By 2050, the richest quarter of the global population will have three times more arable land per person than the rest. Those changing diets to a more affluent consumption will be the ones with less available resources per person. More than two-thirds of global population will not have enough land to produce the food for an affluent diet by 2050. Thus, the large land and water constraints of the poor will result in significant challenges for food security than predicted in previous studies.
Improving the practice of the World Health Organisation’s surgical pause checklist at a tertiary paediatric surgical unit
Authors: Montgomery Kieran , Khan Imran , Thomson Kathleen , Wynne David
Published: June 2016

Background and aims

The World Health Organisation (WHO) surgical checklist acts as a safety check before surgery. The three components are: sign in, surgical pause and sign out. This study aims to assess and improve the surgical pause at a tertiary paediatric surgical unit.

Methods and results

Theatre nurses used as a standardised tool to record how the pause was carried out. All other theatre staff were blinded. Presentation of these data at departmental meetings allowed creation of a checklist poster which was placed in every theatre. Data collection was repeated five months later. Data on 114 operations were initially collected. Fifty-one per cent of operations completed all four steps to guideline. Introduction step met guideline in 61% of operations, identity and procedure in 90%, checklist in 98% and concerns in 71%. Following intervention, data were collected from 39 operations; 77% of operations completed all four steps to guideline. Introduction step met guideline in 87% of operations, identity and procedure in 100%, checklist in 100% and concerns in 90%.

Conclusions

This study shows that by engaging with theatre staff to create an acceptable checklist poster, better standard of patient safety in the operating theatre can be achieved.
The ASHA model: An alternative to the Markovian approach to housing vacancy chains: An application to the study of population in Lille (Nord, France)
Authors: Lévy Jean-Pierre , Boisard Olivier , Salingue Julien
Published: June 2016

This article proposes an alternative method to Markovian approaches through the housing systems analysis (ASHA) model. Its objective is to simulate the impact of the housing stock on population redistribution at a given scale and duration, by modelling the processes whereby residential mobilities are linked, initiated either by a change in the housing stock, or by a movement of housing releases that does not lead to a dwelling being occupied within the study area. The model takes into account the mobilities specific to each household category, in terms – for example – of social position, age, size or the dwelling occupied. It provides information on trends in the population structures of the different housing types brought about by vacancies-reoccupancies. The article begins by describing the model’s theoretical foundations (filtering process and housing vacancy chains) and conception. It then goes on to present, through the example of the city of Lille (Nord, France), a method of data classification that allows comparative analysis suited to the application of the ASHA model. Next, it illustrates the model’s analytical scope and the way it can be used to understand the organisation of a housing system. Finally, drawing on a number of examples (family accommodation, gentrification, housing programmes), it sets out the model’s operational utility and the way local managers can use it to understand and anticipate the impact of housing policy on the urban population.
Influences of LRT on travel behaviour: A retrospective study on movers in Minneapolis
Authors: Cao Jason , Ermagun Alireza
Published: June 2016

Following scant evidence for the effects of proximity to rail transit on car use, we pinpoint the impacts of rail transit and neighbourhood characteristics on both transit and car use in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area. We apply the structural equations modelling approach on 597 residents who moved into the Hiawatha Light Rail Transit (LRT) corridor after it opened. The analysis is based on a self-administrated survey where all attributes of the built environment and transit quality are perceived measures. Using a quasi-longitudinal design to compare the behaviour of movers into the Hiawatha and control corridors, we found that the Hiawatha LRT acts as both a catalyst and a magnet. Movers into the Hiawatha corridor experience transit improvement, which increases transit use and reduces car use. The LRT also enables transit-liking people who were unable to realise their preference previously to relocate near the LRT. However, the LRT has no significant effects on changes in car ownership.
Design as Advocacy
Authors: Rose Emma J.
Published: June 2016

Human-centered design expands the context and reach of the work of technical communicators and provides an opportunity to investigate and advocate for the needs of vulnerable populations. This article summarizes and contributes to the conversation about social justice occurring in both technical communication and design. Using a variety of qualitative methods as a type of design ethnography, this article shares findings from a study that investigated the experiences of homeless bus riders. The study findings provide an opportunity to examine the design of information and communication technologies and changes to policies that impact vulnerable populations. The article discusses the implications of an advocacy perspective for technical communicators practicing human-centered design and their role and opportunity to bring about socially responsible design.
Adaptive sliding mode observer for updating maps with an application to mass air flow sensors in diesel engines
Authors: Wang Changhui , Liu Zhiyuan
Published: June 2016

A novel method for mass air flow (MAF) sensor bias compensation and error map (or look-up table) adaptation with model error correction is proposed. A key feature of the approach is its method of handling and storing operating-point-dependent MAF sensor errors due to installation and ageing in diesel engines; such errors lead to adverse impacts on emission performance. The model of the MAF sensor error depending on the engine operating point is represented as a two-dimensional (2D) map, which is described as a piecewise bilinear interpolation model in the form of a vector–vector dot product. The mean-value engine model of a diesel engine with additional model biases is analysed and employed to improve the estimation precision of the 2D map. Based on the combination of the 2D map regression model and diesel engine mean-value engine model with additional model biases, a linear parameter varying adaptive sliding mode observer is designed, which achieves the disturbance suppression for the nonlinear model errors, as well as the simultaneous estimation of the system state, linear model errors and map parameters. The convergence of the proposed algorithm is proven under the conditions of the persistent excitation and given inequalities. The observer is validated against simulation data from the engine software enDYNA provided by TESIS. The results demonstrate that the estimation precision of the MAF sensor error map can be improved using the proposed method.
Mini-aortic surgery with percutaneous cannulation and rapid-deployment valve
Authors: Bruno Piergiorgio , Farina Piero , Cammertoni Federico , Biondi Raoul , Perri Gianluigi , Di Cesare Alessandro , Crea Filippo , Massetti Massimo
Published: June 2016

Background

We aimed to evaluate the results of the combined use of rapid-deployment valves, percutaneous cardioplegia delivery and left heart venting during minimally invasive aortic valve replacement surgery.

Methods

We identified 2 propensity-matched cohorts of patients who underwent primary elective isolated minimally invasive aortic valve surgery at our center over a 3-years period: 30 patients in group A had a conventional valve prosthesis and 30 patients in group B received a rapid-deployment valve using percutaneous cardioplegia delivery and percutaneous left heart venting. Skin incision length, intraoperative times, postoperative hospital outcomes, and 30-day echocardiographic results were compared between the 2 groups.

Results

Patients in group B had significantly shorter operative times and shorter skin incisions compared to group A (total operative time 196.0 ± 40.6 vs. 225.1 ± 30.8 min, respectively, p < 0.003; cardiopulmonary bypass time 79.9 ± 10.6 vs. 92.9 ± 17.2 min respectively, p < 0.001; crossclamp time 52.3 ± 9.6 vs. 74.9 ± 10.2 min, respectively, p < 0.001; incision length 3.6 ± 0.5 vs. 6.0 ± 0.6 cm, respectively, p < 0.001). Postoperative hospital outcomes and echocardiographic evaluation showed no significant differences.

Conclusions

The combined use of rapid-deployment valves, percutaneous cardioplegia, and left heart venting is safe and effective and allows a significant reduction of the skin incision together with a significant reduction of intraoperative times without affecting hospital outcomes or hemodynamic performance of the prosthetic valves.