bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Real-Time Radar Reflectivity Calibration from Differential Phase Measurements
Authors: Bellon Aldo , Fabry Frédéric 
Published: March 2014

AbstractAn algorithm based on the self-consistency between the horizontal reflectivity ZH and the specific differential phase KDP has been devised for the calibration of the reflectivity measurements of the McGill S-band dual-polarization radar and implemented in real time in the fall of 2012. By combining pairs of measured and theoretical differential propagation phases (ΦDP) along rain paths from several azimuths, elevation angles, and radar cycles, a robust calibration estimate is obtained even in relatively light precipitation, provided the number of pairs is of the order of at least 103. It confirmed the stability of the radar system as further corroborated by disdrometer and ground echo comparisons. However, the two-parameter ZH–KDP technique proved to be inadequate in convective situations because it overestimates ΦDP differences of paths with heavy precipitation. An ex post facto analysis has revealed that a three-parameter (ZH–KDP–ZDR) relationship provides a much better agreement with the measured ΦDP differences regardless of the intensity of the precipitation along the rain paths. The main usefulness of the technique remains its ability to derive a reliable calibration correction factor even in light precipitation; thus, it is readily applicable in climate regimes and/or at times of the year characterized by the absence of strong convection capable of providing the large ΦDP differences previously thought necessary for such a technique to be successful.
Moisture Variability and Multiscale Interactions during Spring in West Africa
Authors: Mera Roberto , Laing Arlene G. , Semazzi Frederick 
Published: March 2014

AbstractThe West African monsoon (WAM) is a vital source of rainfall for the African Sahel. In addition to the agricultural benefit of its rains, it benefits public health because bacterial meningitis outbreaks end with the monsoon onset. Outbreaks occur between December and May, a period of low humidity. Knowledge of the onset of high humidity could aid in predicting where the outbreaks will cease. Therefore, this study investigates the variability of atmospheric moisture during the spring over West Africa, characterizing the sources of moisture, as well as circulation patterns and relative influences of tropical and midlatitude systems. A conceptual model of the evolution of the premonsoon period is presented.The meridional and temporal variability of surface moisture during the spring is modulated by multiscale interactions, as illustrated for the period from mid-April to early May 2009. As westward-propagating, synoptic disturbances move across West Africa, a corresponding peak occurs in the surface relative humidity. With the passage of each disturbance a new and more humid regime is established. Filtered anomalies of outgoing longwave radiation (OLR) indicate that Kelvin waves, equatorial Rossby waves, and possibly the MJO contributed to the initiation and intensification of the synoptic disturbances. During the last of the disturbances, whose passage raised the relative humidity above 40%, a critical threshold for meningitis, an extratropical cyclone also contributed to moisture influx over the Sahel. Analysis of the period 2000–09 shows the relative influences of synoptic and subseasonal circulations on the onset of high relative humidity over the Sahel during the spring.
Communicative Participation and Quality of Life in Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Eadie Tanya L. , Lamvik Kristin , Baylor Carolyn R. , Yorkston Kathryn M. , Kim Jiseon , Amtmann Dagmar 
Published: March 2014

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine how a new self-report outcome measure of communicative participation, the Communicative Participation Item Bank (CPIB), related to disease- and discipline-specific quality of life (QOL) outcomes in a head and neck cancer (HNC) population. Methods: One hundred ninety-five individuals treated for HNC completed the CPIB, the University of Washington Quality of Life questionnaire (UW-QOL), and the Voice Handicap Index–10 (VHI-10). Results: Results revealed moderate QOL scores across the UW-QOL (mean scores: global QOL = 66; physical subscale = 70; social-emotional subscale = 73) and VHI-10 (mean = 16). Correlations between the CPIB and the UW-QOL scores were statistically significant ( P < .001) but relatively weak ( r = .37–.38). As hypothesized, a stronger correlation was found between the CPIB and the VHI-10 ( r = −0.79; P < .001). Conclusion: Clinicians may consider adopting the CPIB to complement existing tools in assessing communication outcomes after HNC.
Airway Management and Endoscopic Treatment of Subglottic and Tracheal Stenosis
Authors: Vorasubin Nopawan , Vira Darshni , Jamal Nausheen , Chhetri Dinesh K. 
Published: March 2014

Objectives: The objective is to present clinical outcomes of subglottic and tracheal stenosis treated by flexible bronchoscopic delivery of carbon dioxide (CO2) laser via laryngeal mask airway (LMA). Methods: All consecutive, nontracheotomy dependent cases of subglottic and tracheal stenosis treated endoscopically over a 4-year period were retrospectively reviewed. The surgical approach consisted of radial incisions using a flexible fiber-based CO2 laser, balloon dilation, and topical application of mitomycin C. Ventilation during the procedure occurred through the LMA, and the CO2 laser fiber was delivered through the working channel of a flexible bronchoscope passed through the LMA. Number of dilations, period between dilations, and operative times were reviewed. Results: Eleven patients who underwent airway intervention during the study period were identified. Average follow-up was 28 months. Etiologies of airway stenosis included intubation injury (6), idiopathic (4), or autoimmune disease (1), requiring an average of 1.3, 1.5, and 3 dilations, respectively. Average operative time was 67 minutes. Autoimmune etiology correlated with more frequent dilations. Conclusion: LMA is an effective way to manage ventilation while simultaneously allowing unencumbered flexible bronchoscopic access for laser surgery, balloon dilation, and mitomycin C application for airway stenosis. Long-term success in treating stenosis is achievable using this technique.
Case Report
Authors: Keereweer Stijn , Van der Schroeff Marc P. , Pullens Bas 
Published: March 2014

Objectives: To date, over 200 000 cochlear implants (CIs) have been implanted worldwide and the incidence is still increasing. We present a case of traumatic displacement of CI magnet to raise awareness about this complication and to highlight the need for vigilance during surgery as well as for proper counseling. Methods: The clinical presentation of a 1.5-year-old boy with a traumatic displacement of a CI magnet was presented and the literature was reviewed for this rare complication. Results: After minor head injury, the sound processor could no longer connect to the CI. X-ray imaging demonstrated displacement of the CI magnet. During revision surgery, the magnet was replaced by a new magnet in the silicon holding cap. Intraoperative impedance measurements were normal and the CI was successfully activated 4 weeks postoperatively. Conclusions: Clinicians and patients should be aware of the risk of displacement of the CI magnet after (minor) head injury. Young boys tend to have a higher risk for this complication.
Laryngeal Mask Airways and Use of a Boyle–Davis Gag in ENT Surgery
Authors: Hettige Roland , Pankhania Miran , Demetriou Vias , Draper Mark 
Published: March 2014

Objectives: The objective was to identify whether the experience of the operating surgeon was relevant to the frequency of the laryngeal mask airway (LMA) airway obstruction or change to an endotracheal tube during ear, nose, and throat surgery. Methods: Data were prospectively collected for 186 patients undergoing a procedure with the use of a Boyle–Davis gag and LMA over 12 months in a district-general hospital in the United Kingdom. patient demographics (age, mallampati grade), grade of surgeon, grade of anesthetist, LMA size inserted, and any intraoperative adjustments needed were recorded. Results: There was an overall intraoperative airway intervention rate of 21%. The experience of the surgeon affected the rate of intraoperative airway interventions encountered, reflected by the significantly lower rate of airway complications (ie, 10%) seen when associate specialists perform these types of procedures compared to other grades of surgeon (Fisher’s exact test 2-tailed P value = .04). A significant complication rate of 50% was seen with core surgical trainees compared to other grades of surgeon (Fisher’s exact test 2-tailed P value = .002). Conclusions: The results of this study suggest there may be a learning curve for otolaryngology trainees when using a LMA. However, larger studies and further subanalyses are essential before further conclusions can be made.
Superomedial Submucosal Partial Arytenoidectomy for Improved Posterior Glottic Closure
Authors: Romak Jonathan J. , Ekbom Dale C. , Saleh Amy M. , Orbelo Diana M. , Maragos Nicolas E. 
Published: March 2014

Objective: Endoscopic medial partial arytenoidectomy has been described previously for expansion of the posterior glottic airway in bilateral vocal fold paralysis. Superomedial submucosal partial arytenoidectomy (SSPA), a modification of this technique, can improve glottic closure in the setting of an obstructing anteromedially prolapsed arytenoid. We present our surgical technique and a case example. Methods and Results: A 45-year-old man presented with dysphonia attributable to unilateral true vocal fold paralysis. Laryngoscopy revealed right true vocal fold atrophy and an anteriorly prolapsed right arytenoid cartilage preventing posterior glottic closure during adduction. Right SSPA and ipsilateral vocal fold injection augmentation were performed without complication. One-month and 11-month postoperative evaluations showed marked improvement in voice, with complete glottic closure. Quality-of-life assessment and patient report showed a durable result at 50 months. Conclusion: SSPA may be a valuable technique in the management of breathy dysphonia associated with posterior glottic gap and other sequelae of the malpositioned arytenoid.
Does self-efficacy influence recovery and well-being in osteoarthritis patients undergoing joint replacement? A systematic review
Authors: Magklara Eleni , Burton Christopher R , Morrison Val 
Published: March 2014

Objective: To investigate the role of self-efficacy in functional recovery and well-being outcomes in osteoarthritis patients, undergoing hip or knee replacement surgery. Data sources: Studies were identified using MEDLINE via PUB med, PsycINFO and CINAHL from inception to July 2013. Methods: Three search strategies that combined key terms of ‘self-efficacy’, ‘functional recovery’, ‘well-being’ and ‘joint replacement’ were applied. Titles and abstracts were screened for eligibility and, accordingly, potentially eligible studies were retrieved for review. Included studies were assessed in terms of their quality, and data were extracted by two independent reviewers. A narrative synthesis of results was conducted. Results: In total, 836 articles were identified and after electronic de-duplication, 708 articles remained. After screening 15 articles were retrieved as potentially eligible and eight articles were included in the review. Of the eight studies ( n = 967 patients), seven had a prospective design and all studies were considered of good quality. No fully conclusive evidence for the influence of self-efficacy upon functional recovery outcomes was found. When the timing of self-efficacy measurement was examined, post-operative self-efficacy was found to be related to functional recovery outcomes. Conclusion: Presurgical self-efficacy was the least consistent predictor of functional outcomes while postoperative self-efficacy was more consistently associated with recovery outcomes such as longer distance ambulation, exercise repetition and frequency, walking speed and disability.
Tendon Contraction After Cyclic Elongation Is an Age-Dependent Phenomenon
Authors: Lavagnino Michael , Bedi Asheesh , Walsh Christopher P. , Sibilsky Enselman Elizabeth R. , Sheibani-Rad Shahin , Arnoczky Steven P. 
Published: March 2014

Background: Tendons are viscoelastic tissues that deform (elongate) in response to cyclic loading. However, the ability of a tendon to recover this elongation is unknown. Hypothesis: Tendon length significantly increases after in vivo or in vitro cyclic loading, and the ability to return to its original length through a cell-mediated contraction mechanism is an age-dependent phenomenon. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: In vitro, rat tail tendon fascicles (RTTfs) from Sprague-Dawley rats of 3 age groups (1, 3, and 12 months) underwent 2% cyclic strain at 0.17 Hz for 2 hours, and the percentages of elongation were determined. After loading, the RTTfs were suspended for 3 days under tissue culture conditions and photographed daily to determine the amount of length contraction. In vivo, healthy male participants (n = 29; age, 19-49 years) had lateral, single-legged weightbearing radiographs taken of the knee at 60° of flexion immediately before, immediately after, and 24 hours after completing eccentric quadriceps loading exercises on the dominant leg to fatigue. Measurements of patellar tendon length were taken from the radiographs, and the percentages of tendon elongation and subsequent contraction were calculated. Results: In vitro, cyclic loading increased the length of all RTTfs, with specimens from younger (1 and 3 months) rats demonstrating significantly greater elongation than those from older (12 months) rats ( P = .009). The RTTfs contracted to their original length significantly faster ( P < .001) and in an age-dependent fashion, with younger animals contracting faster. In vivo, repetitive eccentric loading exercises significantly increased patellar tendon length ( P < .001). Patellar tendon length decreased 24 hours after exercises ( P < .001) but did not recover completely ( P < .001). There was a weak but significant ( R2 = 0.203, P = .014) linear correlation between the amount of tendon contraction and age, with younger participants (<30 years) demonstrating significantly more contraction ( P = .014) at 24 hours than older participants (>30 years). Conclusion: Cyclic tendon loading results in a significant increase in tendon elongation under both in vitro and in vivo conditions. Tendons in both conditions demonstrated an incomplete return to their original length after 24 hours, and the extent of this return was age dependent. Clinical Relevance: The age- and time-dependent contraction of tendons, elongated after repetitive loading, could result in transient alterations in the mechanobiological environment of tendon cells. This, in turn, could induce the onset of catabolic changes associated with the pathogenesis of tendinopathy. These results suggest the importance of allowing time for contraction between bouts of repetitive exercise and may explain why age is a predisposing factor in tendinopathy.
Comparison Between Sexes of Bone Contusions and Meniscal Tear Patterns in Noncontact Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries
Authors: Wittstein Jocelyn , Vinson Emily , Garrett William 
Published: March 2014

Background: Valgus load has been linked to female predominance and mechanism for noncontact anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies reporting frequent medial contusions in noncontact ACL injuries suggest anterior translation rather than a valgus mechanism. Hypothesis: Bone contusion and meniscal tear patterns differ between sexes. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: This study included a review of clinic notes, operative reports, and MRI of patients younger than 20 years who underwent acute primary ACL reconstruction for a noncontact injury between January 1, 2005, and January 1, 2010. A blinded musculoskeletal MRI radiologist reported the incidence of medial and lateral femoral and tibial bone contusions on MRI, as well as the severity of medial versus lateral tibial contusions. The location of the bone contusions and meniscal tears and the maximal tibial contusion severity were compared through chi-square analysis (statistical significance, P < .05). Results: A total of 73 patients met inclusion criteria: 28 males, 45 females; mean age, 16.1 ± 1.7 years (males), 16.5 ± 1.7 years (females). No significant differences were noted between sexes for location of tibial contusions ( P = .32), femoral contusions ( P = .44), or meniscal tears ( P = .715). The most common tibial contusion pattern was to have both medial and lateral tibial contusions, in both male (57%) and female (60%) patients. The most common femoral contusion pattern was lateral only in females (62%) and both medial and lateral in males (50%). The percentage of female (29%) and male (29%) patients with isolated medial meniscal tears was nearly identical. More males (29%) than females (18%) had isolated lateral meniscal tears ( P = .72). No significant difference in the relative severity of the tibial contusions was noted ( P = .246). The lateral tibial contusion was rated as being more severe than the medial in the majority of females (64%) and males (57%). Conclusion: No significant differences were detected between sexes with noncontact ACL injuries for location of tibial or femoral contusions or meniscal tears or for severity of medial versus lateral tibial contusions. The MRI data were not consistent with the valgus collapse mechanism of injury.
Accepting Transitions
Authors: Yancu Cecile N. , Farmer Deborah F. , Graves Mara J. , Rhinehardt April , Leahman Dee 
Published: March 2014

Background: African Americans typically underuse hospice care; this study explores their end of life attitudes. Methods: An iterative focus group strategy generated qualitative data using 4 baseline groups and 1 confirmatory focus group recruited from predominantly African American churches. Each group consisted of 8 to 14 adults. Investigators analyzed data for dominant themes, representatives from baseline groups returned to discuss the results. Results: A total of 43 African Americans (male: 8 [18.6]; female: 35 [81.4]) participated in initial discussions, with 10 returning for follow-up. The prevailing theme was transitions; with life to death dominating discourse; other themes included curative to palliative care and acceptance of death as inevitable. Recommendation: Among African Americans, outreach efforts may be strengthened by reframing the dying process as the product of many transitions and reaching out to faith-based communities.
Synthesis and optical properties of composites based on ZnS nanoparticles embedded in layered magadiite
Authors: Chen Yufeng , Yu Gensheng 
Published: March 2014

AbstractComposites based on ZnS nanparticles embedded in layered magadiite were synthesized via a three step process : protonation of Na-magadiite, ion exchange in order to introduce Zn(NH3)42+ in the interlayer space, and addition of Na2S to form ZnS particles in the interlayer space of magadiite. The composites obtained were characterized by X-ray power diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy coupled with Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Raman spectroscopy, Photoluminscence spectra (PL), and UV-visible transmission spectra (UV-vis). Results indicated that ZnS nanoparticles embedded in magadiite presented different optical properties and photoluminescence enhancement properties compared with those of uncovered ZnS particles (without host magadiite).
Characterization and beneficiation studies for the removal of iron from a china clay from India
Authors: Kar B. , Sahoo H. , Rath S. S. , Rao D. S. , Das B. 
Published: March 2014

AbstractA china clay sample from Jharkhand State, India, containing 65.0 wt.% SiO2, 22.7% Al2O3, 1.77% Fe2O3and 9.10% LOI was subjected to physical beneficiation and acid leaching studies to improve its quality. The clay was characterized by optical microscopy, XRD, and wet chemical analysis methods. Quartz and goethite are the two major impurities. High intensity magnetic separation removed only 10% of the total iron. Experiments with oxalic acid were carried out to establish the leaching kinetics of iron and the effects of acid concentration, time and temperature on iron leaching were also examined. The study demonstrated that ∼90% of total iron could be removed using 5% oxalic acid. The dissolution of iron from clay is best described by diffusion of ions through the product layer of constant size spherical particles. The activation energy of the leaching process over the temperature range was calculated to be 51.14 kJ/mol.
Determination of clay mineral aspect ratios from conductometric titrations
Authors: Weber C. , Heuser M. , Mertens G. , Stanjek H. 
Published: March 2014

AbstractIt has been established that disagreements between different methods of particle size determination of clay minerals can be ascribed to the non-spherical shape of the clay particles. However, by having aspect ratios available, particle sizes can be harmonized. One frequently used approach to obtain aspect ratios is to compare particle sizes originating from at least two devices operating on the basis of different physical principles. In this contribution aspect ratios of nine kaolinite-dominated and one dickite-dominated sample were determined by conductometric titrations. The aspect ratios obtained were then successfully used to correlate particle size distributions from dynamic laser scattering and acoustic spectroscopy.
Mineralogical and geotechnical characterization of clays from northern Morocco for their potential use in the ceramic industry
Authors: El Ouahabi M. , Daoudi L. , Fagel N. 
Published: March 2014

AbstractThis study focuses on the mineralogical and geotechnical characterization of northern Moroccan clays from the Tangier and Tetouan areas and compares them with the main clay deposits used in the Moroccan ceramic industry (from Meknes, Fes, Salé and Safi regions). Sampled clays were analysed by X-ray diffraction on bulk and clay (<2 μm) fractions to identify the mineralogical assemblages of the clay outcrops. Further analyses were conducted to determine the particle size distribution (laser diffraction particle analyser), the total organic matter content (Loss- On-Ignition measurements) and the Atterberg limits of the raw clays. The study aims at investigating the spatial variability of the clay samples and at evaluating their potential application as raw materials in the ceramic industry.Tetouan and Tangier clays are characterized by diversified mineralogical assemblages (in particular a variable proportion of clay, quartz and calcite) compared with the Meknes, Fes, Salé and Safi clays (high clay content, quartz and calcite). The clay fraction of the Tetouan and Tangier samples is dominated by illite and kaolinite with variable amounts of chlorite, smectite and/or vermiculite. Illite is the dominant phase in the Meknes, Fes, Safi and Salé clays, but is associated with kaolinite. No direct relationship between the mineral assemblage composition and the lithology of the series was found.The clays materials studied consist generally of fine particles with medium to high plasticity and low organic matter content. Due to their mineralogy, grain-size distribution and plasticity the clays appear to be suitable as raw material for the growing Morocco ceramic industry.