bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A caracterização do perfil de expressão gênica em larga escala em modelos genéticos de epilepsia fornece elementos para entender os mecanismos envolvidos na epileptogênese em roedores
Authors: Matos AHB , Pascoal VDB , Nascimento DR , Martins S , Rocha CS , Vasconcellos JF , Chamma MT , Maurer-Morelli CV , Martins ASB , Valle AC , Godard ALB , Lopes-Cendes I
Published: December 2012

OBJETIVO: O objetivo desse trabalho foi caracterizar e comparar o perfil genético de dois modelos de epilepsia em roedores (Wistar Audiogenic Rat - WAR e generalized epilepsy with absence seizures - GEAS) através da análise da expressão gênica em larga escala. MÉTODOS: Para a análise do perfil de expressão gênica foi utilizada a técnica de microarranjos de DNA (microarray). RESULTADOS: Na linhagem WAR a análise do perfil de expressão mostrou que dentro os genes mais hiperexpressos está o Neurod1, envolvido com o desenvolvimento do ducto coclear. Além desse encontramos também diferenças significativas na expressão dos genes Apbb1, Foxg1 e Scn1A. Já nos animais GEAS os genes com maior expressão diferencial foram àqueles relacionados com o desenvolvimento do sistema nervoso central, além de genes envolvidos com a via da MAPK, fatores de transcrição, migração neuronal e apoptose. CONCLUSÃO: Esta análise pode ajudar a esclarecer o mecanismo molecular subjacente que leva a predisposição a crises nesses animais. Até o momento, nossos resultados apontam para a ativação de vias moleculares distintas em ambos os modelos.
Hippocampal proteomic profile in temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Persike DS , Lima ML , Amorim RP , Cavalheiro EA , Yacubian EMT , Centeno RS , Carrete Jr H , Schenkman S , Canzian M , Fernandes MJS
Published: December 2012

In this study we used proteomics approaches to obtain the protein profile of human epileptic hippocampi (N=6) and control hippocampi obtained from autopsy (N=6). We used two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-D) coupled to HPLC and Mass spectroscopy (MALDI-TOF) to identify proteins differentially expressed. Nine proteins were differentially expressed comparing the hippocampus of patients with the hippocampus of control. Proteins that were increased in the hippocampus of patients with TLE were: isoform 1 of serum albumin, HSP 70, dihydropyrimidinase-related protein 2, isoform 1 of myelin basic protein, proton ATPase catalytic subunit A, and dihydrolipoyllysine-residue acethyltransferase component of pyruvate dehydrogenase complex. The expression of isoform 3 of spectrin alpha chain (fodrin) was down-regulated while the proteins glutathione S-transferase P and the DJ-1 (PARK7) were detected only in the hippocampus of patients with TLE. Taken together, our results provide evidence supporting a direct link between metabolic disturb and oxidative damage related to pathophysiology of TLE. Besides, indicates biomarkers for further investigations as therapies targeted to epilepsy.
Genotype-Phenotype correlation in Dravet Syndrome with SCN1A mutation increase efficiency of molecular diagnosis
Authors: Gonsales MC , Preto P , Montenegro MA , Guerreiro MM , Lopes-Cendes I
Published: December 2012

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to advance the knowledge on the clinical use of SCN1A testing for severe epilepsies within the spectrum of generalized epilepsy with febrile seizures plus by performing genetic screening in patients with Dravet and Doose syndromes and establishing genotype-phenotype correlations. METHODS: Mutation screening in SCN1A was performed in 15 patients with Dravet syndrome and 13 with Doose syndrome. Eight prediction algorithms were used to analyze the impact of the mutations in putative protein function. Furthermore, all SCN1A mutations previously published were compiled and analyzed. In addition, Multiplex Ligation-Dependent Probe Amplification (MLPA) technique was used to detect possible copy number variations within SCN1A. RESULTS: Twelve mutations were identified in patients with Dravet syndrome, while patients with Doose syndrome showed no mutations. Our results show that the most common type of mutation found is missense, and that they are mostly located in the pore region and the N- and C-terminal of the protein. No copy number variants in SCN1A were identified in our cohort. CONCLUSIONS: SCN1A testing is clinically useful for patients with Dravet syndrome, but not for those with Doose syndrome, since both syndromes do not seem to share the same genetic basis. Our results indicate that indeed missense mutations can cause severe phenotypes depending on its location and the type of amino-acid substitution. Moreover, our strategy for predicting deleterious effect of mutations using multiple computation algorithms was efficient for most of the mutations identified.
Discursividades masculinas
Authors: Tavares Edgley Freire
Published: December 2012

Neste texto apresentamos resultados de nossa pesquisa de mestrado empreendida como uma análise do discurso da sexualidade masculina em duas revistas de circulação nacional: Universo Masculino e Men's Health. Na perspectiva da AD francesa, orientada na interdisciplinaridade da Linguística com outras áreas de saber, analisamos algumas matérias publicadas pelas revistas em 2009 nas quais a temática da sexualidade foi recorrente. Em termos metodológicos, a análise do corpus constituído aqui de três matérias resultou num trabalho descritivo e interpretativo norteado pela seguinte questão: que mecanismos linguísticos e discursivos as revistas UM e MH operam em relação ao discurso da sexualidade masculina e que efeitos de sentido esses arranjos produzem? Ao final, a análise das materialidades discursivas possibilitou compreender que a discursividade das duas revistas reproduz relações de saber e poder constitutivas de uma reafirmação do ideal hegemônico masculino, caracterizando as duas revistas como escritas masculinas da subjetividade do homem na atualidade.
Posições singulares do 'l' em reescritas de fábulas produzidas por alunos do 3º ano do ensino fundamental
Authors: Felipeto Cristina , Lopes Adna de Almeida
Published: December 2012

O trabalho analisa erros de grafia que apresentam combinações irregulares e em desconformidade com o sistema (orto)gráfico do português, por meio de uma reflexão sobre as relações que se estabelecem no processo de aquisição da ortografia. Tenta-se explicitar, por um viés linguístico, as posições singulares do l em reescritas de fábulas por alunos do 3º ano do ensino fundamental de uma escola em Maceió-AL. Para essa reflexão, busca-se apoio teórico em discussões sobre a constituição do sujeito e o funcionamento da língua (DUFOUR, 2000; AUTHIER-REVUZ, 1995); sobre a relevância de dados singulares (PLANE, 2006; VEKEN, 2002); e sobre os processos metafóricos e metonímicos (MILNER, 1989; LEMOS, 1988), motor de análise de dados em Aquisição de Linguagem. Os dados mostram que, dentre os componentes que estão em jogo na aquisição da ortografia, a grafia e a oralidade desempenham um papel fundamental. Desse modo, apenas o indício de apoio na oralidade não basta para dar conta da complexidade em questão. Durante o processo de aquisição da língua escrita, o aluno entra em contato com as especificidades dos signos gráficos e das combinações entre esses signos, o que implica na eliminação de outras grafias ou combinações.
As grafias não convencionais da coda silábica nasal: análise de dados de EJA
Authors: Campos Priscila Barbosa Borduqui , Tenani Luciani , Berti Larissa
Published: December 2012

Este artigo trata das grafias não convencionais da sílaba com coda nasal encontradas em textos escritos por jovens e adultos. Para a descrição desses dados de escrita, são consideradas duas complexidades: (i) a fonético-fonológica da sílaba, particularmente do elemento nasal em coda, e (ii) a da representação ortográfica da nasalidade em português. Sob o aspecto fonético, a coda corresponde a uma redução de energia, o que pode tornar os segmentos que preenchem essa posição da sílaba menos audíveis. Sob o aspecto fonológico, a coda pode ser vista como um constituinte não imediato da sílaba cujo preenchimento sofre restrições. Sob o aspecto ortográfico, são três as possibilidades de registro da nasalidade: , como, respectivamente, em "campo", "canto", "maçã". Argumenta-se que as grafias não convencionais analisadas podem ser motivadas pelas características fonético-fonológicas dos enunciados falados (particularmente, da sílaba com coda nasal) e, também, pelas características das convenções ortográficas dos enunciados escritos (especificamente, as convenções para representação da nasalidade da coda). Defende-se que essas grafias não sejam vistas como erros decorrentes da interferência da fala na escrita, mas como pistas da relação constitutiva dos enunciados falados e escritos.
Population biology of shrimp Macrobrachium jelskii (Miers, 1778) (Decapoda, Palaemonoidea) at the Grande River at northwest of the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil
Authors: Barros-Alves Samara de Paiva , Almeida Ariádine Cristine , Fransozo Vivian , Alves Douglas Fernandes Rodrigues , Silva José Carlos da , Cobo Valter José
Published: December 2012

AIM: The population biology of the freshwater shrimp Macrobrachium jelskii was investigated here emphasizing the length-frequency distribution, sex ratio, reproductive period and juvenile recruitment. In addition, the abundance of individuals was correlated with the abiotic factors. METHODS: Samples were collected on a monthly basis from July 2005 to June 2007 along the river margin in shallow water of Grande River, at Planura region, State of Minas Gerais, Brazil (20º 09' S and 48º 40' W), using a trawl net (1.0 mm mesh size, and 2.0 m × 0.5 m wide). The fishing gear was handled by two people along the marginal vegetation of the Grande River in a course of 100 m, covered for one hour. In the laboratory, the specimens were identified, measured and sexed. RESULTS: A total of 2,789 specimens was analyzed, which corresponded to 1,126 males (549 juveniles and 577 adults) and 1,663 females (1,093 juveniles, 423 adults non-ovigerous and 147 ovigerous). The sex ratio differed significantly in favor of the females of M. jelskii (1:1.48; χ² = 103.95; p < 0.0001). The mean size of carapace length (CL) of females (6.32 ± 1.84 mm CL) was statistically higher than of males (5.50 ± 1.07 mm CL) (p < 0.001). The length-frequency distribution of the specimens revealed an unimodal pattern and non-normal distribution for males and females (W = 0.945; p < 0.01). No significant relationship between the abundance of M. jelskii and the environmental variables was observed (p = 0.799). CONCLUSION: The presence of ovigerous females and juveniles in the population suggests a continuous reproduction pattern and recruitment for M. jelskii at Planura region.
Adjuvant Therapy for Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma: The Debate Continues
Authors: Zhu Andrew X. , Knox Jennifer J.
Published: December 2012

Presentation of the Case

A 37-year-old woman presented at 35 weeks of gestation with her third child with failure to adequately gain weight and was noted by her obstetrician to have delay in the growth of her baby. Ultrasound of the abdomen incidentally revealed the presence of a liver lesion. After additional evaluation, she ultimately delivered her daughter at 36 weeks uneventfully. She subsequently underwent additional evaluation. Liver magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a 5-cm solitary solid mass in segment 4A of the liver, concerning for malignancy. Serum α-fetoprotein, carcinoembryonic antigen, cancer antigen (CA)19–9, CA15–3, and CA125 were all normal. Liver biopsy was positive for adenocarcinoma. The tumor cells demonstrated a phenotype suggesting a possible breast primary, although the immunohistochemistry did not support that diagnosis and the tumor was negative for mammaglobin, gross cystic disease fluid protein (GCDFP)-15, estrogen receptor (ER), and progesterone receptor (PR) (Table 1). The tumor was also CDX2 and cardiotrophin-1 negative, but cytokeratin (CK) 19 positive. Her endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, upper endoscopy, colonoscopy, breast mammogram, and breast MRI were completely normal. A positron emission tomography–computed tomography scan showed a fluorodeoxyglucose-avid 5.8-cm × 6.0-cm hypoattenuating lesion with peripheral enhancement involving segment 4 and segment 8 at the dome. In addition, central necrosis within the lesion was noted. The left main portal vein was mildly attenuated by the mass. She eventually underwent a left hepatectomy en bloc with caudate resection, portal lymphadenectomy, cholecystectomy, and omental pedicle flap. On exploration of the abdomen, no additional disease was noted. The final pathology revealed a 9.4-cm moderately to poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma of the intrahepatic bile ducts. Venous invasion was present. Perineural invasion was absent. The margins were negative. Thirteen lymph nodes were obtained, all of which were negative, consistent with a stage T2, N0, MX intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. The tumor was positive for CK7, CK19, and CA19–9 and negative for CK20, CDX2, CA125, ER, PR, GCDFP-15, synaptophysin, and chromogranin (Table 1). The uninvolved liver was unremarkable and a trichrome stain showed no fibrosis. Following an uneventful postoperative recovery, she was referred for consideration of adjuvant therapy.
Simulating Dryland Water Availability and Spring Wheat Production in the Northern Great Plains
Authors: Qi Zhiming , Bartling Patricia N. S. , Jabro Jalal D. , Lenssen Andrew W. , Iversen William M. , Ahuja Lajpat R. , Ma Liwang , Allen Brett L. , Evans Robert G.
Published: December 2012

Agricultural system models are useful tools to synthesize field experimental data and to extrapolate results to longer periods of weather and to other cropping systems. The objectives of this study were: (i) to quantify the effects of crop management practices and tillage on soil water and spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) production in a continuous spring wheat system using the RZWQM2 model (coupled with CERES‐Wheat) under a dryland condition, and (ii) to extend the RZWQM2 model results to longer term weather conditions and propose alternate cropping systems and management practices. Measured soil water content, yield, and total aboveground biomass under different tillage and plant management practices were used to calibrate and evaluate the RZWQM2 model. The model showed no impacts of tillage but late planting greatly reduced grain yield and biomass, in agreement with observed differences among treatments. The hydrologic analysis under long‐term climate variability showed a large water deficit (32.3 cm) for spring wheat. Fallowing the cropland every other year conserved 4.2 cm of water for the following wheat year, of which only 1.7 cm water was taken up by wheat, resulting in a yield increase of 249 kg ha−1 (13.7%); however, the annualized mean yield decreased 782 kg ha−1 (43.1%) due to 1 yr of fallow. Other long‐term simulations showed that optimal planting dates ranged from 1 March to 10 April and the seeding rates with optimum economic return were 3.71 and 3.95 × 106 seeds ha−1 for conventional and ecological management treatments, respectively.
The Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS): A Review of Its Psychometric Properties in People Undergoing Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Peer Maria A. , Lane Judith
Published: December 2012

Study Design

Systematic literature review, clinical measurement

Objective

To review and summarize the evidence regarding the psychometric properties of the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Methods

A comprehensive review of the existing literature was undertaken using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) systematic review guidelines. Studies were included if they reported the psychometric properties of the KOOS or the KOOS-Physical Function Shortform (KOOS-PS). Papers written in both English and German were analyzed. Studies of patients undergoing primary total TKA or TKA revision, or those with severe osteoarthritis and awaiting TKA, were considered. The methodological quality of the included articles was assessed using the Consensus-Based Standards for the Selection of Health Measurement Instruments checklist.

Results

Six studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Of these, 5 evaluated psychometric properties of the KOOS and 1 evaluated the KOOS-PS. Both the KOOS and KOOS-PS have moderate-to-high construct validity with existing validated self-report measures. However, construct validity of the KOOS function in sport and recreation subscale was weak. Further, these instruments demonstrated a high level of responsiveness, with effect sizes and standard response means of greater than 0.80. Overall, both questionnaires demonstrated clinically acceptable reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.70 or greater). However, somewhat lower reliability was observed for the KOOS function in sport and recreation subscale (intraclass correlation coefficients of 0.45 and 0.65, respectively) and the other symptoms subscale (internal consistency, α = .56).

Conclusion

The KOOS and KOOS-PS exhibit clinically acceptable psychometric properties. Their strength is in large effect sizes to measure outcomes over time and their weakness is in weak-to-moderate reliability and weak construct validity in some subscales of the KOOS. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2013;43(1):20–28. Epub 7 December 2012. doi:10.2519/jospt.2013.4057
Reliability of 2 Ultrasonic Imaging Analysis Methods in Quantifying Lumbar Multifidus Thickness
Authors: Wong Arnold Y.L. , Parent Eric , Kawchuk Greg
Published: December 2012

Study Design

Reliability study.

Objectives

To compare the within- and between-day intrarater reliability of rehabilitative ultrasound imaging (RUSI) using static images (static RUSI) and video clips (video RUSI) to quantify multifidus muscle thickness at rest and while contracted. Secondary objectives were to compare the measurement precision of averaging multiple measures and to estimate reliability in individuals with and without low back pain (LBP).

Background

Although intrarater reliability of static RUSI in measuring multifidus thickness has been established, using video RUSI may improve reliability estimates, as it allows examiners to select the optimal image from a video clip. Further, multiple measurements and LBP status may affect RUSI reliability estimates.

Methods

Static RUSI and video RUSI were used to quantify multifidus muscle thickness at rest and during contraction and percent thickness change in 27 volunteers (13 without LBP and 14 with LBP). Three static RUSI images and 3 video RUSI video clips were collected in each of 2 sessions 1 to 4 days apart. Reliability and precision were assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients, standard error of measurement, minimal detectable change, bias, and 95% limits of agreement.

Results

Using an average of 2 measures yielded optimal measurement precision for static RUSI and video RUSI. Based on the average of 2 measures obtained under the same circumstance, there was no significant difference in the reliability estimates between static RUSI and video RUSI across all testing conditions. Reliability point estimates (intraclass correlation coefficient model 3,2) of multifidus thickness were 0.99 for within-day comparisons and ranged from 0.93 to 0.98 for between-day comparisons. The within- and between-day intraclass correlation coefficients (model 3,2) of percent thickness change ranged from 0.97 to 0.99 and from 0.80 to 0.90, respectively. The exploratory analysis showed no significant difference in the reliability estimates between asymptomatic and LBP participants across most testing conditions.

Conclusion

Both RUSI methods yielded high reliability estimates for multifidus muscle measurements. Using an average of 2 measures obtained optimal measurement precision. Overall, video RUSI is a reliable surrogate for static RUSI for multifidus muscle measurements and has the additional advantage of requiring shorter data collection time. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2013;43(4):251–262. Epub 7 December 2012. doi:10.2519/jospt.2013.4478
Target-Language Community Involvement: Second-Language Linguistic Self-Confidence and Other Perceived Benefits
Authors: Hummel Kirsten M.
Published: December 2012

Abstract:

French native-speaking students (N = 20) enrolled in a university TESL program were asked to participate in a community service-learning project in an English-speaking minority community in Québec. Results from this qualitative study indicated that active community involvement led to strong perceptions of positive effects. The principal effects reported by participants included greater linguistic self-confidence along with the perception of having improved their second language (L2) skills, increased knowledge about their field of study (L2 teaching), and confirmation of their professional goals, personal satisfaction from helping young children and other community members, and to some extent, greater knowledge about the local English-speaking community. The results suggest that community service learning may have been an effective way to enhance L2 learning for the participants in this study, with particular effects on linguistic self-confidence, and might be appropriate in similar contexts in which opportunities for intergroup contact are not readily available.
La dynamique protestataire du Mouvement du 20 février à Casablanca
Authors: Bennani-Chraïbi Mounia , Jeghllaly Mohamed
Published: December 2012

Résumé Au-delà du discours vantant « l’exception marocaine », un large mouvement de protestation s’est développé dès le mois de février 2011 dans l’ensemble du pays. Loin d’être le produit d’un effet domino, le Mouvement du 20 février est notamment tributaire d’un processus d’attribution de similarité, de la réactivation de relais organisationnels et de réseaux plus ou moins dormants. Une large coalition s’est constituée au sein d’un champ d’alliance et d’opposition à la jonction entre scène politique instituée et espace protestataire, par-delà les clivages entre réseaux de gauche et islamistes. Dans un jeu d’échelles entre le local, le national, le régional et l’international, un faisceau d’actions, d’interactions et d’événements a contribué autant à l’enracinement de la coalition qu’à sa désagrégation.
Virtual Portfolio: A Strategy for Learning Assessment in a Graduated Virtual Program Results of a Pilot Study
Authors: Marin Carmen , Rodriguez Shirley
Published: December 2012

Learning evaluation in a graduated master virtual program was assessed using virtual portfolio strategy as a tool to assess learning. A pilot study determined dimension and direction of interactions between students and professor during the first quarter of the program. Results show the most frequent dimension was social (55,9%), followed by procedimental (41,4%). In direction student /professor (32,7%) was the most, followed by professor /student. The predominance of social interactions might be explained because this research was done at the very beginning of the program. We expect the analysis of subsequent recorded chat session, forums discussions and people´s comments will show progressively switch toward cognitive interactions.
Adenosine A2A Receptor Agonist–Mediated Increase in Donor-Derived Regulatory T Cells Suppresses Development of Graft-versus-Host Disease
Authors: Han Kyu Lee , Thomas Stephenie V. M. , Koontz Sherry M. , Changpriroa Cattlena M. , Ha Seung-Kwon , Malech Harry L. , Kang Elizabeth M.
Published: December 2012

Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) remains a significant complication of allogeneic transplantation. We previously reported that the adenosine A2A receptor (A2AR) specific agonist, ATL146e, decreases the incidence and severity of GVHD in a mouse transplant model. There is increasing interest in treatments that increase CD4+CD25highFoxp3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) to suppress GVHD. Our current study found in vitro that A2AR selective agonists enhanced TGF-β–induced generation of mouse Tregs 2.3- to 3-fold. We demonstrated in vivo suppression of GVHD with specific A2AR agonists in two different murine GVHD transplant models associated with profound increases in both circulating and target tissue Tregs of donor origin. Three different A2AR agonists of differing potency, ATL146e, ATL370, and ATL1223, all significantly inhibited GVHD-associated weight loss and mortality. At the same time, Tregs shown to be of donor origin increased 5.1- to 7.4-fold in spleen, 2.7- to 4.6-fold in peripheral blood, 2.3- to 4.7-fold in colon, and 3.8- to 4.6-fold in skin. We conclude that specific activation of A2AR inhibits acute GVHD through an increase of donor-derived Tregs. Furthermore, the increased presence of Tregs in target tissues (colon and skin) of A2AR-specific agonist-treated mice is likely the mechanistic basis for the anti-inflammatory effect preventing acute GVHD.
TLR Agonists Stimulate Nlrp3-Dependent IL-1β Production Independently of the Purinergic P2X7 Receptor in Dendritic Cells and In Vivo
Authors: He Yuan , Franchi Luigi , Núñez Gabriel
Published: December 2012

On the basis of studies in mouse macrophages, activation of the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain–like receptor (NLR) pyrin domain–containing 3 (Nlrp3) inflammasome is thought to require two signals. The first signal is provided by TLR stimulation and triggers the synthesis of the IL-1β precursor and Nlrp3. The second signal can be mediated by stimulation of the purinergic receptor P2X ligand–gated ion channel 7 (P2X7) by millimolar concentrations of ATP. However, these high concentrations of ATP are not found normally in the in vivo extracellular milieu, raising concern about the physiological relevance of the ATP–P2X7 pathway of inflammasome activation. In this article, we show that unlike macrophages, murine bone marrow–derived and splenic dendritic cells (DCs) can secrete substantial amounts of mature IL-1β upon stimulation with TLR ligands in the absence of ATP stimulation. The differential ability of DCs to release IL-1β and activate caspase-1 was associated with increased expression of Nlrp3 under steady-state conditions and of pro–IL-1β and Nlrp3 after stimulation with TLR agonists. IL-1β secretion from stimulated DCs was largely dependent on the Nlrp3 inflammasome, but independent of P2X7 and unaffected by incubation with apyrase. More importantly, i.p. administration of LPS induced IL-1β production in serum, which was abrogated in Nlrp3-null mice but was unaffected in P2X7-deficient mice. These results demonstrate differential regulation of the Nlrp3 inflammasome in macrophages and DCs. Furthermore, they challenge the idea that the ATP-P2X7 axis is critical for TLR-induced IL-1β production via the Nlrp3 inflammasome in vivo.
Control of plankton seasonal succession by adaptive grazing
Authors: Mariani Patrizio , Andersen Ken H. , Visser André W. , Barton Andrew D. , Kiørboe Thomas
Published: December 2012

The ecological succession of phytoplankton communities in temperate seas is characterized by the dominance of nonmotile diatoms during spring and motile flagellates during summer, a pattern often linked to the seasonal variation in the physical environment and nutrient availability. We focus on the effects of adaptive zooplankton grazing behavior on the seasonal succession of temperate plankton communities in an idealized community model consisting of a zooplankton grazer and two phytoplankton species, one motile and the other nonmotile. The grazer can switch between ambush feeding on motile cells or feeding‐current feeding on nonmotile cells. The feeding‐current behavior imposes an additional mortality risk on the grazer, whereas ambush feeding benefits from small‐scale fluid turbulence. Grazer‐phytoplankton feeding interactions are forced by light and turbulence and the grazer adopts the feeding behavior that optimizes its fitness. The adaptive grazing model predicts essential features of the seasonal plankton succession reported from temperate seas, including the vertical distribution and seasonal variation in the relative abundance of motile and nonmotile phytoplankton and the seasonal variation in grazer abundance. Adaptive grazing behavior, in addition to nutrient and mixing regimes, can promote characteristic changes in the seasonal structure of phytoplankton community observed in nature.
Influence of seasonal variables associated with climate change on photochemical diurnal cycles of marine phytoplankton from Patagonia (Argentina)
Authors: Villafañe Virginia E. , Banaszak Anastazia T. , Guendulain-García Sergio D. , Strauch Sebastian M. , Halac Silvana R. , Helbling E. Walter
Published: December 2012

The effects of temperature and ultraviolet radiation (UVR; 280–400 nm) on seasonal succession in phytoplankton assemblages of Patagonia (Argentina) were studied in the context of global change. Samples collected during pre‐bloom, bloom onset, bloom, and spring were exposed to in situ and increased (+4°C) temperatures and solar radiation with and without UVR. Daily cycles of effective photochemical quantum yield exhibited a pattern of high values in the morning, decreasing towards noon, and increasing in the afternoon. The decrease in yields towards noon as the season progressed increased from 30% in the pre‐bloom to 80% in the spring; in the latter there were significant differences between radiation treatments under both temperature conditions. The highest inhibition rates were during the bloom, whereas the highest recovery rates were during the spring. Inhibition rates were generally higher in treatments exposed to UVR in comparison to photosynthetically active radiation‐only treatments and some stages of the succession exhibited an additional temperature effect. Increasing temperatures had little effect on pre‐bloom communities but helped to counteract the magnitude of the yield decrease during the bloom onset. However, during the bloom and in the spring, temperature and UVR acted synergistically, increasing the overall photochemical inhibition. Feedback mechanisms of increased temperatures causing a shallower mixing depth will expose phytoplankton to higher radiation, which will have a negative effect on the bloom and on spring assemblages. Due to the differential effects of solar UVR and increased temperature on phytoplankton, future studies should consider the repercussions on higher trophic levels.
Response of the pelagic tunicate appendicularian, Oikopleura dioica to controlled simulations of a strong bloom condition: A bottom‐up perspective
Authors: Lobón Carla M. , Bouquet Jean-Marie , Reeve Magnus , Novac Aliona , Acuña José Luis , Thompson Eric M. , Troedsson Christofer
Published: December 2012

To test the hypothesis of bottom‐up regulation of appendicularians under high food conditions that occur during blooms, an experiment including measurements of fecundity, hatching success, and mortality at different quantity and quality of food was performed on Oikopleura dioica. Food level and fecundity were positively correlated. There was little effect of food on adult mortality, although higher food levels significantly decreased successful juvenile development. The positive effect of increased food concentration on fecundity was offset by a negative effect on hatching success; hence, the variance in quality and quantity of food explored in this study had little effect on the intrinsic rate of natural increase.
Dynamics of Fodder Resources of the Most Important Fodder Plants of the Winter Pasturesof North-western Part of Azerbaijan
Authors: Asadova K. K.
Published: December 2012

Feeding value of desert, semi-desert and arid plain winter pastures of the North-Western part of Azerbaijan is considered in the article. Data on dynamics of fodder resources and features of the major plants of the winter pastures of the region are given. A chart-scheme of main types of vegetation of winter pastures is cited. A brief evaluation of present-day condition of pastures and recommendations in the further exploitation are given.
Meeting the Local Rice Needs in Nigeria through Effective Weed Management
Authors: Ismaila U. , Wada A. C. , Daniya E. , Gbanguba A. U.
Published: December 2012

Nigeria is blessed with natural and human resources required to produce rice to meet its local consumption. These resources are spread across all the agro-ecological zones of the country. Despite the availability of these resources, rice production in Nigeria could still not meet the local consumption and over 40% of the crop is imported annually to complement the local production. Several studies have revealed biotic and abiotic stresses as the major impediment to the production of the crop. Weeds are the most prominent of all the stresses across all the ecologies in term of yield reduction, labour demand and control cost. Yield losses of 35-75% and 70-100% have been recorded in low land and upland ecologies respectively as a result of weed interference. The problem of weed is worse than any of the other stress mentioned above except for water stress in low land ecology. This paper reviews the various weed management options that could be adopted for optimal rice yield, by the resource poor farmers of Nigeria.
A Simple Electromagnetic Analysis of Magnetic NDE Using a Double Rectangular Coil an a Hall Effect Sensor
Authors: Bettaieb L. , Kokabi H. , Poloujadoff M.
Published: December 2012

In this paper a simple analysis and measurement in eddy current NDE are presented. A Hall probe is associated to a double Printed Circuit Board PCB. The configurations examined involve the coil in air and the coil above aluminum plates, either with or without cracks of various depths. The agreement between experimental and theoretical results is very good, showing that a very simple model accurately describes the electromagnetic fields.
Electromagnetic coupling in a planar periodic configuration of resonators
Authors: Jouvaud C. , Ourir A. , De Rosny J.
Published: December 2012

We are studying arrays composed of a periodic arrangement of sub-wavelength resonators. An analytical model is developed inside an array of 4 by 4 multi-gap split ring resonators. To describe the frequency splitting of the single fundamental resonance, we propose a simple model based on the approximation of each resonator as an electrical dipole and a magnetic dipole that are driven by the same complex amplitude. We show that the relative strength of the two dipoles strongly depends on cell symmetry. With this approximation, the dispersion relation can be obtained for an infinite size array. A simple matrix diagonalization provides a powerful way to deduce the resonant frequencies for finite size array. These results are comforted by numerical simulations. Finally, an experimental demonstration of a tunable antenna based on this study is presented.
Evaluation of the American Red Cross Disaster-Related Mortality Surveillance System Using Hurricane Ike Data—Texas 2008
Authors: Farag Noha H. , Rey Araceli , Noe Rebecca , Bayleyegn Tesfaye , Wood April D. , Zane David
Published: December 2012

Objectives

To evaluate key attributes, strengths, and limitations of the American Red Cross (ARC) disaster-related mortality surveillance system implemented during Hurricane Ike in Texas 2008, and to provide recommendations for system improvement.

Methods

We evaluated key attributes of the ARC mortality surveillance system. Evaluation included interviews with stakeholders and linking ARC data with the Texas Department of State Health Services’ (DSHS) system for comparison.

Results

During September 11 through October 6, 2008, the ARC identified 38 deaths, whereas DSHS identified 74 deaths related to Hurricane Ike (sensitivity = 47%; positive predictive value = 92%). The ARC had complete data on 61% to 92% of deaths, and an 83% to 97% concordance was observed between the 2 systems for key variables.

Conclusions

The ARC surveillance system is simple, flexible, and stable. We recommend establishing written guidelines to improve data quality and representativeness. As an important supporting agency in disaster situations and the sole source of data regarding disaster-related mortality in multiple states, improvement of the ARC system will benefit stakeholders and promote dissemination of useful information for preventing future deaths. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2013;7:13-19)
Intention to Comply With Mandatory Hurricane Evacuation Orders Among Persons Living Along a Coastal Area
Authors: Reininger Belinda M. , Raja Sartaj Alam , Carrasco Ana Sanchez , Chen Zhongxue , Adams Barbara , McCormick Joseph , Rahbar Mohammad H.
Published: December 2012

Objectives

We examined the intention to comply with mandatory hurricane evacuation orders among respondents living in coastal areas with pronounced poverty by demographic and location characteristics.

Methods

A 3-county door-to-door survey was conducted with 1 randomly selected resident per household. Households were selected using a 2-stage cluster sampling strategy and stratified by county. The final sample included 3088 households in 100 census tracts across 3 counties.

Results

Findings suggest that the majority of residents living in areas prone to hurricanes intend to comply with mandatory evacuation orders regardless of income level. Variation in intention to comply with mandatory evacuation orders is shown by age, gender, ethnicity, education, acculturation, county, and distance from shoreline.

Conclusions

The demonstrated high intention to comply with evacuation orders in impoverished areas suggests a need for improved planning to evacuate the most vulnerable residents. Demographic and location characteristics associated with decreased intention to comply may be considered for targeting messages and education before disasters to modifying intentions and plans to evacuate. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2013;7:46-54)
Nanowell‐Trapped Charged Ligand‐Bearing Nanoparticle Surfaces: A Novel Method of Enhancing Flow‐Resistant Cell Adhesion
Authors: Tran Phat L. , Gamboa Jessica R. , McCracken Katherine E. , Riley Mark R. , Slepian Marvin J. , Yoon Jeong‐Yeol
Published: December 2012

Assuring cell adhesion to an underlying biomaterial surface is vital in implant device design and tissue engineering, particularly under circumstances where cells are subjected to potential detachment from overriding fluid flow. Cell–substrate adhesion is a highly regulated process involving the interplay of mechanical properties, surface topographic features, electrostatic charge, and biochemical mechanisms. At the nanoscale level, the physical properties of the underlying substrate are of particular importance in cell adhesion. Conventionally, natural, pro‐adhesive, and often thrombogenic, protein biomaterials are frequently utilized to facilitate adhesion. In the present study, nanofabrication techniques are utilized to enhance the biological functionality of a synthetic polymer surface, polymethymethacrylate, with respect to cell adhesion. Specifically we examine the effect on cell adhesion of combining: 1. optimized surface texturing, 2. electrostatic charge and 3. cell adhesive ligands, uniquely assembled on the substrata surface, as an ensemble of nanoparticles trapped in nanowells. Our results reveal that the ensemble strategy leads to enhanced, more than simply additive, endothelial cell adhesion under both static and flow conditions. This strategy may be of particular utility for enhancing flow‐resistant endothelialization of blood‐contacting surfaces of cardiovascular devices subjected to flow‐mediated shear.
Cross‐Scale Modeling and Simulation of Coal Pyrolysis to Acetylene in Hydrogen Plasma Reactors
Authors: Yan Binhang , Cheng Yi , Jin Yong
Published: December 2012

Coal pyrolysis to acetylene in hydrogen plasma is carried out under ultrahigh temperature and milliseconds residence time. To better understand the complex gas‐particle reaction behavior, a comprehensive computational fluid dynamics with discrete phase model has been established, with special consideration of the particle‐scale physics such as the heat conduction inside particle. The improved chemical percolation devolatilization model that incorporates the tar cracking reactions is adopted. The model predictions are in good agreement with the performances of two pilot‐plant reactors. The simulations reveal the detailed unmeasurable information of gas phase and particle‐scale behaviors, then point out the facts that coal devolatilization almost finishes in the first 100 mm of the reaction chamber and the optimal particle diameter is suggested to be 20–50 μm. The different reactor performances during the scale‐up from 2‐ to 5‐MW unit are analyzed based on the detailed simulation results in combination with the operational experience. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 59: 2119–2133, 2013
Efficient pyridylbenzamidine ligands for palladium‐catalyzed Suzuki–Miyaura reaction
Authors: Huang Ying‐Tang , Tang Xiao , Yang Yi , Shen Dong‐Sheng , Tan Cheng , Liu Feng‐Shou
Published: December 2012

A series of pyridylbenzamidine ligands were applied in palladium‐catalyzed Suzuki–Miyaura reactions and the effect of ligand on catalytic properties was evaluated. Under the optimization conditions, the bulky and electron‐donating nitrogen donor ligands were successfully used to catalyze the reaction of a variety of aryl bromides and aryl chlorides with arylboronic acid, giving the desired products in moderate to high yields. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Anti‐cancer potential of selenium‐ and tellurium‐containing species: opportunities abound!
Authors: Seng Hoi‐Ling , Tiekink Edward R. T.
Published: December 2012

An overview highlighting the anti‐cancer potential of (bio‐essential) selenium‐ and tellurium‐containing species, with an emphasis on biological targets and mechanisms of action, is presented. Studies thus far have focused on selenium(II) compounds (along with – to a lesser extent – inorganic selenium and selenium nanoparticles) which often successfully exploit the inherent anti‐oxidizing ability of selenium. Significantly less work has been conducted in developing anti‐cancer tellurium compounds, yet two tellurium(IV) species are proven, clinically, as anti‐cancer agents. Given the prevalence of the disease and the accumulated insights into mechanisms of action, the continued development of selenium‐ and tellurium‐containing molecules is an area deserving greater attention. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of sea‐level rise on northern elephant seal breeding habitat at Point Reyes Peninsula, California
Authors: Funayama Kota , Hines Ellen , Davis Jerry , Allen Sarah
Published: December 2012

Northern elephant seals (Mirounga angustirostris) historically experienced a significant population decrease to the brink of extinction owing to human exploitation, but have since recovered and recolonized former breeding/haul‐out sites. Point Reyes Peninsula, California, is one location where population increase has resulted in colony expansion.

Initial models identified suitable breeding haul‐outs and suggested that human disturbance, geomorphology, mean wave height, and slope were important explanatory variables. Three sea‐level rise (SLR) scenarios were run, which indicated that most current and potential haul‐out sites would largely be inundated by 2050. Because the Point Reyes coast has limited suitable habitat for the seals to colonize, conservation measures may guide management responses to SLR.

The resulting analyses can be used to better understand local‐scale seal responses to SLR and contribute to effective management of pinnipeds within Point Reyes National Seashore and elsewhere.

Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effect of face‐to‐face teaching on student knowledge and satisfaction in an undergraduate neuroanatomy course
Authors: Whillier Stephney , Lystad Reidar P.
Published: December 2012

The total number of anatomy teaching hours has declined in medical courses worldwide. Conversely, face‐to‐face teaching in undergraduate neuroanatomy at Macquarie University increased by 50% in 2011. Our aim was to investigate whether this influenced student performance and overall satisfaction with the course. One hundred eighty‐one students consented to participate in this study. A questionnaire was administered to rate the course, and final grades from the old and new unit cohorts were compared. The old and new unit cohorts did not differ in their final grades (P = 0.249). However, the new unit cohort rated their knowledge of the material higher compared to the old unit cohort (P = 0.013), and reported higher levels of satisfaction with the course (P < 0.001). In an era in which teaching time for anatomy has been reduced at tertiary institutions, and there is much lamenting of the effect this will have, there is a paucity of literature on whether the decrease really influences neuroanatomical knowledge. This is the first study, to the best of our knowledge, to show that an increase in total face‐to‐face teaching hours does not improve student grades, but does increase student satisfaction with the course. Anat Sci Educ 6: 239–245. © 2012 American Association of Anatomists.
Oral anatomy laboratory examinations in a physical therapy program
Authors: Fabrizio Philip A.
Published: December 2012

The process of creating and administering traditional tagged anatomy laboratory examinations is time consuming for instructors and limits laboratory access for students. Depending on class size and the number of class, sections, creating, administering, and breaking down a tagged laboratory examination may involve one to two eight‐hour days. During the time that a tagged examination is being created, student productivity may be reduced as the anatomy laboratory is inaccessible to students. Further, the type of questions that can be asked in a tagged laboratory examination may limit student assessment to lower level cognitive abilities and may limit the instructors' ability to assess the students' understanding of anatomical and clinical concepts. Anatomy is a foundational science in the Physical Therapy curriculum and a thorough understanding of anatomy is necessary to progress through the subsequent clinical courses. Physical therapy curricula have evolved to reflect the changing role of physical therapists to primary caregivers by introducing a greater scope of clinical courses earlier in the curriculum. Physical therapy students must have a thorough understanding of clinical anatomy early in the education process. However, traditional anatomy examination methods may not be reflective of the clinical thought processes required of physical therapy students. Traditional laboratory examination methods also reduce student productivity by limiting access during examination set‐up and breakdown. To provide a greater complexity of questions and reduced overall laboratory time required for examinations, the Physical Therapy Program at Mercer University has introduced oral laboratory examinations for the gross anatomy course series. Anat Sci Educ 6: 271–276. © 2012 American Association of Anatomists.