bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Insights from a New High-Resolution Drought Atlas for the Caribbean Spanning 1950–2016
Authors: Herrera Dimitris , Ault Toby 
Published: June 2017

Abstract
Climate change is expected to increase the severity and frequency of drought in the Caribbean. Understanding drought variability and its trends is therefore critical for improving resiliency and adaptation capacity of this region, as well as for assessing the dynamics and predictability of regional hydroclimate across spatial and temporal scales. This work introduces a first of its kind high-resolution drought dataset for the Caribbean region from 1950 to 2016, using monthly estimates of the “self calibrating” Palmer drought severity index (scPDSI), with the physically based Penman–Monteith approximation for the potential evapotranspiration. Statistically downscaled data products, including reanalysis, are employed to establish an historical baseline for characterizing drought from 1950 to the near present. Since 1950, the Caribbean has been affected by severe droughts in 1974–77, 1997/98, 2009/10, and 2013–16. Results indicate that the 2013–16 drought is the most severe event during the time interval analyzed in this work, which agrees with qualitative reports of many meteorological institutions across the Caribbean. Linear trends in the scPDSI show a significant drying in the study area, averaging an scPDSI change of −0.09 decade−1 (p &lt; 0.05). However, this trend is not homogenous, and significant trends toward wetter conditions in portions of the study area were observed. Results further indicate a strong influence of both tropical Pacific and North Atlantic oceans in modulating drought variability across the study domain. Finally, this effort is the first step in building high-resolution drought products for the Caribbean to be updated regularly, with the purpose of drought monitoring and eventually seasonal drought prediction.
Sensitivities of Land Cover–Precipitation Feedback to Convective Triggering
Authors: Chen Liang , Dirmeyer Paul A. , Tawfik Ahmed , Lawrence David M. 
Published: June 2017

Abstract
The land surface state can be an important factor in the triggering of precipitation, whose depiction in Earth system models (ESMs) crucially relies on the representation of convective initiation. However, the sensitivity of land-cover change–precipitation feedbacks to different parameterized triggering criteria in ESMs has not been examined. In this study, a new triggering mechanism based on the heated condensation framework (HCF) is implemented in the Community Earth System Model (CESM). A set of land-cover change experiments with different convective triggering conditions are performed to evaluate the influence of convective triggering on land–atmosphere coupling strength and the response of summer afternoon precipitation to land-cover change over North America. Compared with the default parameterization, which depends on a CAPE threshold, the HCF trigger shows an improvement in the diurnal timing of summer precipitation but larger dry biases over much of the study area. With the HCF trigger, CESM exhibits weakened coupling strength between soil moisture and surface turbulent fluxes over the Great Plains. The surface temperature deficit, as an additional triggering criterion in HCF, is not significantly coupled with surface fluxes over the central Great Plains despite strong latent heat–CAPE coupling. In contrast to the CAPE-trigger simulations, which indicate increased precipitation over the Great Plains after agricultural expansion, the HCF-trigger simulations show significantly increased afternoon precipitation only over the northern plains, which is mainly associated with more frequent deep convection. The discrepancies suggest caveats when investigating the impacts of land-cover change on precipitation, because the magnitude and spatial patterns of precipitation change can be greatly affected by the treatment of convection in ESMs.
How can Growth Monitoring and Special Care of Underweight Children be Improved in Zambia?
Authors: Msefula Derrie 
Published: June 2017

Despite widespread promotion and implementation, very few growth monitoring programmes have been evaluated. Where they have, the findings have often been disappointing and the value of routine growth monitoring has been questioned. There is a concern that the process has become more of a weighing ritual rather than growth promotion. This paper highlights the findings of the evaluation study carried out to assess the performance of the Lusaka urban growth monitoring programme in Zambia. The problems faced and reasons are identified and alternate ways of offering the service are presented. Since the shortfalls are not unique to the Lusaka programme, it is hoped that this paper will stimulate a re-think in the way growth monitoring would be best implemented.
Educators' Responses to Methods of Collecting, Storing, and Analyzing Behavioral Data
Authors: Walton W. T. 
Published: June 2017

The methods of collecting, storing, and analyzing behavioral data have proven cumbersome and inadequate in the modem educational setting. Teachers and others consistently report their dissatisfaction with current methods, which do not allow large amounts of data to be collected quickly and which make valid analysis difficult We are using a “horse and buggy” approach in a modern world of electronic technology. This paper summarizes the findings of a survey given in November, 1982, to regular and special education teachers in five districts in Utah and Idaho. The survey pertained to methods of collecting, storing, and analyzing data on children in an educational setting. The paper recommends solutions to the problems of time and complexity that limit the usefulness of current methods.
Producing Accessible Video-Based Training on Assistive Technology
Authors: Thorkildsen Ron , Lowry William 
Published: June 2017

In this article we describe the development of a set of video-based training materials designed to present information on the availability and use of assistive technology (AT). The purpose of the article is two-fold: (a) to briefly describe the instructional materials, and (b) to describe the processes used to make the materials accessible to persons with disabilities. Describing the instructional materials provides information for potential users of the materials, and describing the development process provides information for instructional designers about the decisions made and processes used to make the materials accessible. The materials were designed for use in group training or stand alone training, and for in-service or pre-service2 audiences. Designing accessible training materials in a variety of instructional formats presented a challenge. The materials had to be sufficiently self-explanatory for stand-alone use while providing presentation materials for group-based instruction, in a format that could be used by persons who have visual and/or hearing disabilities. Steps taken to meet this challenge are presented in the article. We also make recommendations for increasing accessibility when developing video-based instructional materials.
How Internationalised are EU Transnationals?1
Authors: Ietto-Gillies Grazia 
Published: June 2017

The aims of the paper are: (a) to analyse the possible motives behind international location strategies of companies with particular emphasis on why companies may locate in many foreign countries; (b) to develop two complementary methods of assessing the degree of internationalisation and introduce two related indices; (c) to give empirical estimates for the two indices and particularly for the largest EU transnational companies (TNCs); and (d) to analyse the possible impact on countries and sectors and draw relevant policy implications. The assessment is based on the international location of the TNCs’ affiliates or subsidiaries. The companies are all those appearing in the list of the world’s largest companies and the main focus is on those originating from EU countries. The paper starts with a discussion of companies’ location strategies abroad and with an analysis of the reasons why they may want to spread their network of foreign direct activities. A methodology section introduces two indices one based on the degree of foreign projection of the company and the other designed to capture the degree of international locational spread of affiliates/subsidiaries. Three sets of empirical estimates follow. The first one presents a comparative analysis by countries for the years 1997 and 2000 and for the largest companies originating from the EU countries. The second set analyses sectoral patterns in the degree of internationalisation. The third set of estimates relates to a longitudinal study of the locational pattern of the largest UK TNCs in manufacturing and mining from 1963 to 1997. The paper ends with a discussion of the possible impact as well as policy implications of the locational pattern emerging from the study. JEL: F2; L2; L6; L8
Commitment and Satisfaction in Producer Co-operatives: the Role of Work Values
Authors: Oliver Nick 
Published: June 2017

Although the arguments put forward in support of producer co-operatives span many levels—from the advantages for the national economy to the benefits for individuals—much of the promotion of co-operatives emphasizes the supposed advantages of cooperative working at the individual and organizational levels. It is argued that working in a co-operative can be more satisfying than working in a traditional business, and that the greater commitment sometimes found amongst the membership of cooperatives may enhance their performance relative to comparable traditional businesses. The evidence from studies into attitudes in co-operatives indicates that the picture is less clear cut than this; some people appear to find the experience of co-operative working a satisfying one, some perceive it to be virtually indistinguishable from working in a traditional business, others become cynical and disillusioned. This paper examines responses to co-operative working in terms of the commitment and satisfaction among the members of a large well established co-operative. The role of different work values in determining commitment and satisfaction is explored, and the implications of the findings for the promotion of co-operatives discussed.
The Schumpeterian Gap and Muslim Economic Thought
Authors: Ali Ameer , Thompson Herb 
Published: June 2017

Contemporary analytical economists normally date their origins from the late eighteenth century. We argue herein that a pseudo-scientificity (which omits normative information), combined with an overriding ethnocentrism, tends to lead the disciplinary agents of economics to ignore much economic thought outside the American-British-Continental axis. The argument is developed beginning with Joseph A. Schumpeter’s classic, The History of Economic Analysis, which set what appears to have remained a trend in history of economic thought and analysis texts, by ignoring Arab/Islamic scholars. At present, entire economies are organised, more or less, on Islamic principles. Islam is explicitly concerned with material life and provides numerous guidelines for the conduct of economic affairs for millions of people. While it is not the aim of this paper to examine the methodological or epistemological content of these principles, we argue that, at the very least, the history of economic thought should incorporate the work of Arab/Islamic thinkers. The material foundation of Islam cannot be understood by students of a discipline which continues to promote a positivist, Cartesian, mathematical formalism, at the expense of understanding its contextual origins. The economies in which hundreds of millions of people live, work and produce, are being guided, for better or worse, by the epistemological premises of Islam. Until these premises are comprehended, and then critically evaluated, economists educated in the industrial west continue to marginalise themselves and their students in a manner which is no longer excusable.
Discrete Multicriterion Optimization of a Space Truss
Authors: Karczewski Jan A. , Paczkowski Witold M. 
Published: June 2017

Final forming of a space truss used as roof in a sports or market hall is a result of searching for a solution which is the best one according to various criteria such as safety, reliability, economy, functionality and so forth. An illustration of this problem a numerical example of various optimizations of an orthogonal, double layer space truss of dimensions 24 × 24 m made of steel is shown in the paper. First, eight single-criterion objective functions such as: weight of members, weight of nodes, weight of columns, weight of whole truss, weight of walls and roofing elements made of steel, vertical displacements of a node in the middle of the truss, energy of deformation and a certain function of geometry of the truss were investigated assuming the number of divisions and the depth of the truss as decisive variables. The problems were formulated as discrete ones since the element cross-sections were selected from a finite catalogue. The All Variants Inspections Method was employed. For three among the aforementioned objective functions, describing weight of structure, displacement of the central node and the geometry of the truss, a discrete multicriterion optimization problem was formulated and solved. From the set of compromises a preferred sollution has been chosen by using the discrete functions and, the global criterion method.
Comparison of Betamethasone Dipropionate Lotion with Salicylic Acid (Diprosalic®) and Clobetasol Propionate Lotion (Dermovate®) in the Treatment of Psoriasis of the Scalp
Authors: Hillström Lars , Pettersson Lars , Svensson Louise 
Published: June 2017

A double-blind comparison was made between Diprosalic® and Dermovate® lotions in fifty-one patients with psoriasis of the scalp. Both preparations were highly effective. No significant difference in efficacy between the preparations could be demonstrated after 3 weeks treatment except for antipruritic effect, in this respect Diprosalic® being superior to Dermovate®. Only three patients (two in the Dermovate® group, and one in the Diprosalic® group) experienced minor adverse reactions. Plasma cortisol levels were determined in seventeen of the patients and no significant influence on the adrenal function could be shown on the part of either of the preparations.
The Bioavailability of Orphenadrine Hydrochloride after Intramuscular and Oral Administration
Authors: Rutigliano G , Labout J J M 
Published: June 2017

The bioavailability of orphenadrine hydrochloride after a single intramuscular injection was compared to that after a single oral dose by following serial plasma concentration estimations of the unchanged drug. The bioavailability of orphenadrine from the intramuscular dosage form proved to be equal to or even greater than that from the tablet. Eight subjects received 40 mg orphenadrine HCl intramuscularly and 50 mg orally on separate occasions 1 week apart. The first hour plasma concentrations after intramuscular doses were significantly higher than those after oral doses, supporting the clinical use of the intramuscular route in those indications where rapid effects of the drug are required.
Environmental and Mechanical Fatigue of Wind Turbine Blades Made of Composites Materials
Authors: Caprile Carlo , Sala Giuseppe , Buzzi Alberto 
Published: June 2017

The problem relevant to fatigue design and analysis of wind turbine blades made of composite materials is faced; mid-size single-blade wind turbine is taken into consideration. Static and fatigue load conditions are defined; hygrothermal conditions are identified as well, in terms of yearly statistical distribution of wind speed and air temperature, relative humidity, solar radiation and atmospheric pressure daily variations, the occurrence of low-energy impacts due to hailstones is also considered. A FEM structural analysis is carried out to compute stress and strain distributions all along the blade: hot spots are identified; the stress critical values, along with fatigue spectra, are used to design fatigue tests. Some preliminary tests are performed on composite specimens previously dry and wet conditioned, as well as on low-energy impacted coupons, considering both mechanical and hygrothermal effects; finally some preliminary fatigue tests on both adhesive and riveted composite joints are carried out.
Efficacy of a Multifunctional Plant Complex in the Treatment of Localized Fat-Lobular Hypertrophy
Authors: Vassallo Camilla , Distante Fernanda , Rona Claudia , Berardesca Enzo , Borroni Giovanni 
Published: June 2017

Introduction: Cellulite (from Italian “cellulite”) is a widely used term to indicate a common condition afflicting women (ie, fat-lobular hypertrophy, which is localized mainly on thighs and buttocks). Despite the fact that several physiopathologic factors have been proposed for localized fat-lobular hypertrophy, the arena seems to be limited to vascular damage and lobular hypertrophy. These 2 components are known as the possible target of many different plant extracts, which may play an important role in influencing and reducing vascular damage and lobular hypertrophy. Materials and Methods: This study was aimed at evaluating the efficacy of a multifunctional plant complex in the treatment of localized fat-lobular hypertrophy. The study was carried out on a group of 25 subjects with clinical evidence of cellulite and on a control group of 15 subjects that received a placebo (2 capsules per day for a period of 2 months). The instrumental investigation measured baseline, intermediate, and final values of the following biophysical parameters: weight; arterial blood pressure; circumference of hips, thighs, and ankles; cutaneous fold thickness of hips; and measurement of the superficial microcirculation. Moreover, there was also a baseline and final assessment of circulating thyroid hormones and clotting analysis. Evaluation of the antioxidant efficacy of the product was tested and proved. Results: Volunteers' weight remained relatively constant during the study. Significant variations were recorded in the measurements of other biophysical cutaneous parameters (the circumference of hips, thighs, ankles; cutaneous fold thickness; skin microcirculation; and ultrasonography) in the group that had used the nonplacebo product, whereas the group who used the placebo did not present any significant variations. The thermographic data recorded a significant increase at the end of treatment. Significant variations in arterial blood pressure measurements, already 1 month after treatment in the first group, were observed. Thyroid function remained within normal range both before and after treatment; the variation in total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, and triglycerides were of no significance. No significant alterations were noted in the prothrombin concentration, whereas activated partial thromboplastine time (aPTT) and fibrinogen values were significantly increased in the treated volunteers. There was a significant reduction of the lipid peroxidase count and increase in the plasma total antioxidant capacity in the subjects who were nonsmokers and smokers. Conclusions: The data collected indicate that this multifunctional plant complex can reduce the dimensions of thighs and hips; decrease the thickness of underlying fat tissue while maintaining relatively constant body weight; and in particular improve blood circulation, which leads to the improvement of heat perfusion.
Effects of Clonidine on Propofol-Based Anesthesia
Authors: Lack Edward B. , Rachel John D. , Patrascu Oana 
Published: June 2017

Introduction: Propofol-based anesthesia is a safe and effective method to provide intravenous sedation in office-based elective surgery. Clonidine is a drug that can provide anxiolytic sedation and hemodynamic stability, thus reducing the propofol consumption rate. This study reports the effect of 0.1 mg of clonidine administered orally and preoperatively on the dosage rate of propofol. The authors also describe the hemodynamic effects on patients undergoing elective liposculpture surgery. Materials and Methods: In a retrospective review, 20 American Society of Anesthesiologists grade I and grade II patients undergoing elective liposculpture surgery under monitored anesthesia care were studied. Ten patients received premedication (0.1 mg clonidine) 30–45 minutes before the induction of anesthesia. A control group receiving no premedication underwent the same procedures conducted by the same surgeon. Propofol dosage rate, heart rate, and blood pressure of both groups were monitored preoperatively, intraoperatively, and in the recovery room. Results: The average propofol dosage rate was 3.21 mg/ kg/h for the treatment group and 2.78 mg/kg/h for the control group. Hemodynamic stability was obtained for both groups during and after the treatment periods. Neither group had episodes of hypotension or changes in expectable recovery time. Discussion: Clonidine premedication of 0.1 mg orally did not reduce the requirements for propofol dosage rates. In contrast to previous studies using higher doses, this clonidine dose did not provide the beneficial effects of lowering the anesthetic requirement for propofol. However, hemodynamic stability was achieved, and no adverse effects were observed.
Venous Ligation for Treatment of Cosmetically Unwanted Periorbital Facial Veins
Authors: Daly Deborah J. , Levit Eyal , Bisaccia Emil , Scarborough Dwight 
Published: June 2017

Introduction: Treatment of unwanted periorbital facial veins is a challenge. Common modalities used to treat facial veins include electrocautery, radioelectrosurgery, laser, and microsclerotherapy. Periorbital veins resistant to electrocautery, difficult to safely target with laser, or at risk for sclerosant flow to ophthalmo-cranial anastomotic circulation may be treated with a vein ligation technique in properly selected patients. Methods: Patient selection, preoperative evaluation, exclusion criteria, and anatomic considerations are described in detail. The surgical technique is described in conjunction with intraoperative photos. Discussion: Patient selection and characteristics of ideal target vessels are reviewed to optimize results. Less than ideal patient and target vessel characteristics are reviewed in relation to inclusion and exclusion criteria for periorbital vein ligation technique. Results: This ligation technique provides a useful approach for treatment of cosmetically unwanted 1.5- to 3.0-mm facial veins in properly selected patients. Partial to full resolution may be expected for individual veins. Postoperative photographic documentation shows the typical improvement obtained. Conclusion: Periorbital facial vein ligation is a useful technique for addressing the problem of cosmetically unwanted periorbital facial veins in properly selected patients.