bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improved methodologies for continuous-flow analysis of stable water isotopes in ice cores
Authors: Jones Tyler R. , White James W. C. , Steig Eric J. , Vaughn Bruce H. , Morris Valerie , Gkinis Vasileios , Markle Bradley R. , Schoenemann Spruce W.
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Water isotopes in ice cores are used as a climate proxy for local temperature and regional atmospheric circulation as well as evaporative conditions in moisture source regions. Traditional measurements of water isotopes have been achieved using magnetic sector isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS). However, a number of recent studies have shown that laser absorption spectrometry (LAS) performs as well or better than IRMS. The new LAS technology has been combined with continuous-flow analysis (CFA) to improve data density and sample throughput in numerous prior ice coring projects. Here, we present a comparable semi-automated LAS-CFA system for measuring high-resolution water isotopes of ice cores. We outline new methods for partitioning both system precision and mixing length into liquid and vapor components – useful measures for defining and improving the overall performance of the system. Critically, these methods take into account the uncertainty of depth registration that is not present in IRMS nor fully accounted for in other CFA studies. These analyses are achieved using samples from a South Pole firn core, a Greenland ice core, and the West Antarctic Ice Sheet (WAIS) Divide ice core. The measurement system utilizes a 16-position carousel contained in a freezer to consecutively deliver  ∼  1 m  ×  1.3 cm2 ice sticks to a temperature-controlled melt head, where the ice is converted to a continuous liquid stream and eventually vaporized using a concentric nebulizer for isotopic analysis. An integrated delivery system for water isotope standards is used for calibration to the Vienna Standard Mean Ocean Water (VSMOW) scale, and depth registration is achieved using a precise overhead laser distance device with an uncertainty of ±0.2  mm. As an added check on the system, we perform inter-lab LAS comparisons using WAIS Divide ice samples, a corroboratory step not taken in prior CFA studies. The overall results are important for substantiating data obtained from LAS-CFA systems, including optimizing liquid and vapor mixing lengths, determining melt rates for ice cores with different accumulation and thinning histories, and removing system-wide mixing effects that are convolved with the natural diffusional signal that results primarily from water molecule diffusion in the firn column.
An Assessment of the Impact of ATMS and CrIS Data Assimilation on Precipitation Prediction over the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Xue Tong , Xu Jianjun , Guan Zhaoyong , Chiu Long S. , Chen Han-Ching , Shao Min
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Using the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Gridpoint Statistical Interpolation data assimilation system and the National Center for Atmospheric Research’s Advanced Research Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF-ARW) regional model, the impact of assimilating advanced technology microwave sounder (ATMS) and cross-track infrared sounder (CrIS) satellite data on precipitation prediction over the Tibetan Plateau in July 2015 was evaluated. Four experiments were designed: a control experiment and three data assimilation experiments with different data sets injected: conventional data only, a combination of conventional and ATMS satellite data, and a combination of conventional and CrIS satellite data. The results showed that the monthly mean of precipitation is shifted northward in the simulations and shows an orographic bias described as an overestimation in the upwind of the mountains and an underestimation in the south of the rainbelt. The rain shadow mainly influenced prediction of the quantity of precipitation, although the main rainfall pattern was well simulated. For the first 24-hourand last 24-hour accumulated daily precipitation, the model generally overestimated the amount of precipitation, but it was underestimated in the heavy rainfall periods of 3–6, 13–16, and 22–25 July. The observed water vapor conveyance from the southeastern Tibetan Plateau was larger than in the model simulations, which induced inaccuracies in the forecast of heavy rain on 3–6 July. The data assimilation experiments, particularly the ATMS assimilation, were closer to the observations for the heavy rainfall process than the control. Overall, the satellite data assimilation can enhance the WRF-ARW model’s ability to predict the spatial and temporal pattern of precipitation in July 2015 although the model capability exists a significant limitation in the complex terrain area.
Near real-time estimation of ionosphere vertical total electron content from GNSS satellites using B-splines in a Kalman filter
Authors: Erdogan Eren , Schmidt Michael , Seitz Florian , Durmaz Murat
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Although the number of terrestrial global navigation satellite system (GNSS) receivers supported by the International GNSS Service (IGS) is rapidly growing, the worldwide rather inhomogeneously distributed observation sites do not allow the generation of high-resolution global ionosphere products. Conversely, with the regionally enormous increase in highly precise GNSS data, the demands on (near) real-time ionosphere products, necessary in many applications such as navigation, are growing very fast. Consequently, many analysis centers accepted the responsibility of generating such products. In this regard, the primary objective of our work is to develop a near real-time processing framework for the estimation of the vertical total electron content (VTEC) of the ionosphere using proper models that are capable of a global representation adapted to the real data distribution. The global VTEC representation developed in this work is based on a series expansion in terms of compactly supported B-spline functions, which allow for an appropriate handling of the heterogeneous data distribution, including data gaps. The corresponding series coefficients and additional parameters such as differential code biases of the GNSS satellites and receivers constitute the set of unknown parameters. The Kalman filter (KF), as a popular recursive estimator, allows processing of the data immediately after acquisition and paves the way of sequential (near) real-time estimation of the unknown parameters. To exploit the advantages of the chosen data representation and the estimation procedure, the B-spline model is incorporated into the KF under the consideration of necessary constraints. Based on a preprocessing strategy, the developed approach utilizes hourly batches of GPS and GLONASS observations provided by the IGS data centers with a latency of 1 h in its current realization. Two methods for validation of the results are performed, namely the self consistency analysis and a comparison with Jason-2 altimetry data. The highly promising validation results allow the conclusion that under the investigated conditions our derived near real-time product is of the same accuracy level as the so-called final post-processed products provided by the IGS with a latency of several days or even weeks.
Ecological response to collapse of the biological pump following the mass extinction at the Cretaceous–Paleogene boundary
Authors: Vellekoop Johan , Woelders Lineke , Açikalin Sanem , Smit Jan , van de Schootbrugge Bas , Yilmaz Ismail Ö. , Brinkhuis Henk , Speijer Robert P.
Published: February 2017

Abstract. It is commonly accepted that the mass extinction associated with the Cretaceous–Paleogene (K–Pg) boundary (∼ 66 Ma) is related to the environmental effects of a large extraterrestrial impact. The biological and oceanographic consequences of the mass extinction are, however, still poorly understood. According to the Living Ocean model, the biological crisis at the K–Pg boundary resulted in a long-term reduction of export productivity in the early Paleocene. Here, we combine organic-walled dinoflagellate cyst (dinocyst) and benthic foraminiferal analyses to provide new insights into changes in the coupling of pelagic and benthic ecosystems. To this end, we perform dinocyst and benthic foraminiferal analyses on the recently discovered Tethyan K–Pg boundary section at Okçular, Turkey, and compare the results with other K–Pg boundary sites in the Tethys. The post-impact dominance of epibenthic morphotypes and an increase of inferred heterotrophic dinocysts in the early Paleocene at Okçular are consistent with published records from other western Tethyan sites. Together, these records indicate that during the early Paleocene more nutrients remained available for the Tethyan planktonic community, whereas benthic communities were deprived of food. Hence, in the post-impact phase the reduction of export productivity likely resulted in enhanced recycling of nutrients in the upper part of the water column, all along the western Tethyan margins.
Interplay of temperature, productivity, and community assemblage on hydrogen isotope signatures of algal lipid biomarkers
Authors: Ladd S. Nemiah , Dubois Nathalie , Schubert Carsten J.
Published: February 2017

Abstract. The hydrogen isotope composition (δ2H) of biomarkers produced by algae is strongly influenced by the δ2H values of the water in which they grew. δ2H values of algal biomarkers preserved in lake sediments are thus a useful tool for reconstructing past changes in lake water δ2H values, which can be used to infer hydroclimate variability. However, studies from laboratory cultures of marine algae have shown that a number of factors can influence the magnitude of hydrogen isotope fractionation between algal lipids and their source water, including temperature and growth rates. Quantifying the natural extent of these changes in freshwater lacustrine settings and identifying their causes is essential for robust application of δ2H values of algal lipids as paleohydroclimate proxies, yet the influence of these factors remains poorly constrained. This work targets the effect of temperature and productivity on 2H/1H fractionation in algal biomarkers through a comparative time series in two central Swiss lakes: eutrophic Lake Greifen and oligotrophic Lake Lucerne. Particulate organic matter was collected from surface waters at six time points throughout the spring and summer of 2015, and δ2H values of short chain fatty acids, as well as the diatom biomarker brassicasterol, were measured. We paired these measurements with in situ incubations conducted with NaH13CO3, which were used to calculate the production rates of individual lipids in lake surface water. As algal productivity increased from April to June, the magnitude of 2H/1H fractionation in Lake Greifen increased by as much as 148 ‰ for individual fatty acids. During the same time period in Lake Lucerne, the magnitude of 2H/1H fractionation increased by as much as 58 ‰ for individual fatty acids, consistent with the 2–4 ‰ per °C increase in 2H/1H fractionation observed in cultures of microalgae. Larger changes in 2H/1H fractionation in Lake Greifen may be due to a combined effect of higher temperatures and increased algal productivity, which can cause relatively greater contributions of highly depleted H from NADPH in Photosystem I to be incorporated into lipids, or due to seasonal changes in the structure of the algal community. Fatty acid δ2H values were preserved in surface sediment, while those of brassicasterol indicated large (~ 40 ‰) isotopic effects due to degradation. The magnitude of brassicasterol fractionation was significantly different between the two lakes, suggesting that its hydrogen isotope composition may be more sensitive to nutrient regime than that of fatty acids.
On the numerical stability of surface–atmosphere coupling in weather and climate models
Authors: Beljaars Anton , Dutra Emanuel , Balsamo Gianpaolo , Lemarié Florian
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Coupling the atmosphere with the underlying surface presents numerical stability challenges in cost-effective model integrations used for operational weather prediction or climate simulations. These are due to the choice of large integration time steps compared to the physical timescale of the problem, aiming at reducing computational burden, and to an explicit flux coupling formulation, often preferred for its simplicity and modularity. Atmospheric models therefore use the surface-layer temperatures (representative of the uppermost soil, snow, ice, water, etc.) at the previous integration time step in all surface–atmosphere heat-flux calculations and prescribe fluxes to be used in the surface model integrations. Although both models may use implicit formulations for the time steps, the explicit flux coupling can still lead to instabilities.In this study, idealized simulations with a fully coupled implicit system are performed to derive an empirical relation between surface heat flux and surface temperature at the new time level. Such a relation mimics the fully implicit formulation by allowing one to estimate the surface temperature at the new time level without solving the surface heat diffusion problem. It is based on similarity reasoning and applies to any medium with constant heat diffusion and heat capacity parameters. The advantage is that modularity of the code is maintained and that the heat flux can be computed in the atmospheric model in such a way that instabilities in the snow or ice code are avoided. Applicability to snow–ice–soil models with variable density is discussed, and the loss of accuracy turns out to be small. A formal stability analysis confirms that the parametrized implicit-flux coupling is unconditionally stable.
Consequences and mitigation of saltwater intrusion induced by short-circuiting during aquifer storage and recovery in a coastal subsurface
Authors: Zuurbier Koen Gerardus , Stuyfzand Pieter Jan
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Coastal aquifers and the deeper subsurface are increasingly exploited. The accompanying perforation of the subsurface for those purposes has increased the risk of short-circuiting of originally separated aquifers. This study shows how this short-circuiting negatively impacts the freshwater recovery efficiency (RE) during aquifer storage and recovery (ASR) in coastal aquifers. ASR was applied in a shallow saltwater aquifer overlying a deeper, confined saltwater aquifer, which was targeted for seasonal aquifer thermal energy storage (ATES). Although both aquifers were considered properly separated (i.e., a continuous clay layer prevented rapid groundwater flow between both aquifers), intrusion of deeper saltwater into the shallower aquifer quickly terminated the freshwater recovery. The presumable pathway was a nearby ATES borehole. This finding was supported by field measurements, hydrochemical analyses, and variable-density solute transport modeling (SEAWAT version 4; Langevin et al., 2007). The potentially rapid short-circuiting during storage and recovery can reduce the RE of ASR to null. When limited mixing with ambient groundwater is allowed, a linear RE decrease by short-circuiting with increasing distance from the ASR well within the radius of the injected ASR bubble was observed. Interception of deep short-circuiting water can mitigate the observed RE decrease, although complete compensation of the RE decrease will generally be unattainable. Brackish water upconing from the underlying aquitard towards the shallow recovery wells of the ASR system with multiple partially penetrating wells (MPPW-ASR) was observed. This leakage may lead to a lower recovery efficiency than based on current ASR performance estimations.
Snowfall in the Alps: Evaluation and projections based on the EURO-CORDEX regional climate models
Authors: Frei Prisco , Kotlarski Sven , Liniger Mark A. , Schär Christoph
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Twenty-first century snowfall changes over the European Alps are assessed based on high-resolution regional climate model (RCM) data made available through the EURO-CORDEX initiative. Fourteen different combinations of global and regional climate models with a target resolution of 12 km, and two different emission scenarios are considered. A newly developed method to separate snowfall from total precipitation based on near-surface temperature conditions and accounting for subgrid topographic variability is employed. The evaluation of the simulated snowfall amounts against an observation-based reference indicates the ability of RCMs to capture the main characteristics of the snowfall seasonal cycle and its elevation dependency, but also reveals considerable positive biases especially at high elevations. These biases can partly be removed by the application of a dedicated RCM bias correction that separately considers temperature and precipitation biases. Snowfall projections reveal a robust signal of decreasing snowfall amounts over most parts of the Alps for both emission scenarios. Domain and multimodel-mean decreases of mean September-May snowfall by the end of the century amount to −25 % and −45 % for RCP4.5 and RCP8.5, respectively. Snowfall in low-lying areas in the Alpine forelands could be reduced by more than −80 %. These decreases are driven by the projected warming and are strongly connected to an important decrease of snowfall frequency and snowfall fraction and are also apparent for heavy snowfall events. In contrast, high-elevation regions could experience slight snowfall increases in mid-winter for both emission scenarios despite the general decrease of the snowfall fraction. These increases in mean and heavy snowfall can be explained by a general increase of winter precipitation and by the fact that, with increasing temperatures, climatologically cold areas are shifted into a temperature interval which favours higher snowfall intensities.
English in Cameroon: Issues of Teacher Language Proficiency
Authors: Achiri-Taboh Blasius , Lando Rodrick
Published: February 2017

Over the last three decades, the standards of English in Cameroon as well as the performance of students in theEnglish language at the General Certificate of Education (GCE) examination have been on a steady decline. Whilemany Cameroonians keep making their way into the English language teaching industry as a result of the rapidexpansion of English as a global lingua franca, the quality of language input administered to learners seems to leavemuch to desire. Thus, although a number of studies have attributed the continuous downward spiralling of standardsto a variety of reasons, this study set out to investigate the extent to which teachers of English as a second language(ESL) in Cameroon master the language they teach, as a demonstration that the teacher is one of the major problemsto be addressed. Our main objectives were to test teachers’ language skills. Employing the Homogeneous PurposiveSampling Technique, a total of 40 ESL teachers in Tiko and Buea Sub-divisions of the South West Region ofCameroon were investigated using questionnaires and interviews. Of the 40, 36 showed difficulties with spelling, 33with punctuation, 30 with pronunciation, 28 with capitalization, 27 with sentence construction, and five withagreement.
English Language Learners and Special Education in Ontario Schools
Authors: Robert-Tobin Stacey
Published: February 2017

A discussion paper on English language learners who are also special education students.
Trends in Qualitative Research in Three Major Language Teaching and Learning Journals, 2006–2015
Authors: Tojo Hiroko , Takagi Akiko
Published: February 2017

This study examines the current trends and complexities in qualitative research in three major language teaching andlearning journals published from 2006–2015. After categorizing 781 articles into quantitative, qualitative, mixedmethods, and other approaches, 226 qualitative research articles were closely examined and further analyzed in termsof four dimensions: approaches, methods, number of participants, and length of research period. The findingsshowed that case study was the most frequently employed approach, followed by ethnography. The study alsoidentified that while interviews, observations, discourse analysis, and conversation analysis were relatively wellutilized, more than 150 different data collection and analysis methods were used. Although the results of the studyshow a tendency to use certain approaches and methods in qualitative research more than others, they alsodemonstrate the complexity and diversity of qualitative research and the difficulty in clarifying and categorizingtypes of qualitative research in language teaching and learning.
PATHWAYS – A Case of Large-Scale Implementation of Evidence-Based Practice in Scientific Inquiry-Based Science Education
Authors: Sofoklis Sotirou, , Rodger W. Bybee, , Bogner Franz X.
Published: February 2017

The fundamental pioneering ideas about student-centered, inquiry-based learning initiatives are differing in Europe and the US. The latter had initiated various top-down schemes that have led to well-defined standards, while in Europe, with its some 50 independent educational systems, a wide variety of approaches has been evolved. In this present paper, we portray a European bottom-up initiative, “PATHWAY to Inquiry Based Science Education”, to define a basis for learning initiatives and to meet current challenges to access learning, to share knowledge and establish competences in learning communities. Our approach was designed to act as bottom-up catalyst by mobilizing teacher communities to (further) foster inquiry. Of a sample of 10.053 science teachers from 15 European countries (incl. Russia), about 5060 provided empirical support for our teachers’ professional development initiative. The response pattern portrayed teachers’ preferences and pointed to potential needs in professional development (PD) efforts. On average, our sample reported an altogether 11 years’ period of teaching practice in general but just 2-3 years of experience in inquiry-teaching. In the view of that, consequences for professional development (PD) initiatives are discussed.
National Identity in Traditional Ideological Discourse of the Islamic Revolution
Authors: Sarmadi Hamid
Published: February 2017

The traditional ideological discourse of the Islamic revolution was formed by the safeguard and support of the pastachievements and also to preserve the historical heritage. It was one of the rings attached to the compatibility of thereligious and national identity in contrast of the Pahlavi's extremism that emphasized the leasing of Shiite's elements,the identity of Western modernity and tyranny.Following of this hegemonic discourse after the Islamic revolution. We can see the adoption of religious and nationalvalues. It is strengthened the national identity by the central slab of religious democracy and some elements such as ;civil society, rule of law, development of higher education, political participation, economic development, civilrights and human dignity.
Does Higher Education Curriculum Contribute to Prospective Teachers' Attitudes, Self-Efficacy and Motivation?
Authors: Koludrovic Morana , Reic Ercegovac Ina
Published: February 2017

In Croatia, another comprehensive reform of the education system is being implemented. Although it proposes anumber of reforms to the school system, we think that providing better training to future teachers during their studieswould further contribute to the quality of education. The initial education of elementary and high school teachers isconsiderably different in terms of the number of courses where teaching competences are acquired, i.e. teachingcourses, and the number of classes of these courses students take every week. Therefore, the initial hypothesis of thestudy was that students who take more teaching courses will prefer a democratic atmosphere, and will be moreintrinsically motivated, more self-efficient and more satisfied with their course of study as compared to students whotake fewer of these courses. A series of questionnaires was given to 383 students at teacher education institutions atthe University of Split to examine their academic self-efficacy, motivation, satisfaction with the studies and to assessthe quality of teaching atmosphere. The obtained results confirm the hypothesis that future teachers who take moreteaching courses prefer a democratic atmosphere and are intrinsically more motivated. When explaining futureteachers’ attitudes towards a democratic teaching process, the predictive role of self-efficacy and satisfaction withthe course of study was not determined.
Application of the Nonlinear Oscillations Theory to the Study of Non-equilibrium Financial Market
Authors: Markov Nikolay , Dmitriev Viktor , Maltseva Svetlana , Dmitriev Andrey
Published: February 2017

The research deals with the construction, implementation and analysis of the model of the non-equilibrium financial market using econophysical approach and the theory of nonlinear oscillations. We used the scaled variation of supply and demand prices and elasticity of these two variables as dynamic variables in the simulation of the non-equilibrium financial market. View of the dynamic variables data was determined based on the strength of econophysical prerequisites using the model of hydrodynamic type. As a result, we found that the non-equilibrium market can be described with a good degree of accuracy with oscillator models with nonlinear rigidity and a self-oscillating system with inertial self-excitation. The most important states of model of oscillation non-equilibrium model of the market were found, including the appearance of chaos and its mechanisms. We have made the calculations of the correlation dimension for the financial time series. The results show that all observed time series have a clearly defined chaotic dynamic nature.
Stock Market Development and Economic Growth: An Empirical Analysis of Zimbabwe (1989-2014)
Authors: Magweva Rabson , Mashamba Tafirei
Published: February 2017

The relationship between stock market development and economic growth varies across nations and regions. This relationship is of significance to regulatory authorities, investors and portfolio managers in their operations aimed at enhancing the welfare of the citizens and clients at large. The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between these two variables in Zimbabwe for the period 1989 to 2014. The paper employed the Vector Error Correction Model approach after establishing the order of integration (unit root tests) and cointegration between variables. All the variables were found to be stationary at 1% level after first differencing using the Phillips-Peron tests. The long run relationship was negative, whereas the short run coefficients were insignificant. Though contrary to financial theory, the results, to a large extent, testify to what happened during the period. Based on these findings, the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange and Securities and Exchanges Commission are urged to come up with alternative products to lure new listings from the small to medium enterprises. It is also recommended that all the stakeholders focus beyond the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange to promote economic growth as the firms seem to raise funds from other sources.
Cointegration Approach to the Estimation of the Long-Run Relations between Exchange Rates and Trade Balances in Visegrad Countries
Authors: Šimáková Jana
Published: February 2017

The paper deals with the relationship between exchange rates and foreign trade. The aim of this paper is to reveal the long-term effects of the level of exchange rates on the trade balances of the Visegrad Countries. As the different product categories are characterized by different price elasticity, exchange rate uncertainty sensitivity and countries are differentiated by consumer and producer behavior patterns, this paper uses territorial and commodity structuring of foreign trade data. An empirical analysis is performed for the period 1999
Advanced Metering Infrastructure Detects Contamination and Forges Operational Resilience
Authors: Mix Nelson , Thompson Ken , Lai Alan
Published: February 2017

The water sector has seen rapid growth of advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) for improving customer billing. Now, AMI functionalities provide water utilities with a better business case to increase resiliency and improve security.
Two Linguistic Case Studies of the Craft of Songwriting: 'Imagine' and 'Like a Rolling Stone'
Authors: Hewett Matthew R
Published: February 2017

The songs “Imagine” and “Like a Rolling Stone”, written by John Lennon and Bob Dylan respectively, demonstrate the musicians' acute awareness of the expressive force which saturates particular grammatical constructions, lexemes, tense/aspect combinations, and other linguistic phenomena. Lennon and Dylan brandish their linguistic savvy by connecting with their audiences, albeit in fundamentally different ways. This paper seeks to highlight some commonalities and differences between how two of the most famous singer/songwriters of the late 60s and early 70s both connected with and manipulated their listenership. Furthermore, it seeks to demonstrate how a close linguistic analysis contributes to the general understanding of the momentous socio-cultural responses these songs elicited in popular culture. The methodology involves a close investigation of linguistic forms, including line-by-line analyses and comparisons between the two writers.
Electrostatic anchoring precedes stable membrane attachment of SNAP25/SNAP23 to the plasma membrane
Authors: Weber Pascal , Batoulis Helena , Rink Kerstin M , Dahlhoff Stefan , Pinkwart Kerstin , Söllner Thomas H , Lang Thorsten
Published: February 2017

The SNAREs SNAP25 and SNAP23 are proteins that are initially cytosolic after translation, but then become stably attached to the cell membrane through palmitoylation of cysteine residues. For palmitoylation to occur, membrane association is a prerequisite, but it is unclear which motif may increase the affinities of the proteins for the target membrane. In experiments with rat neuroendocrine cells, we find that a few basic amino acids in the cysteine-rich region of SNAP25 and SNAP23 are essential for plasma membrane targeting. Reconstitution of membrane-protein binding in a liposome assay shows that the mechanism involves protein electrostatics between basic amino acid residues and acidic lipids such as phosphoinositides that play a primary role in these interactions. Hence, we identify an electrostatic anchoring mechanism underlying initial plasma membrane contact by SNARE proteins, which subsequently become palmitoylated at the plasma membrane.
A PALB2-interacting domain in RNF168 couples homologous recombination to DNA break-induced chromatin ubiquitylation
Authors: Luijsterburg Martijn S , Typas Dimitris , Caron Marie-Christine , Wiegant Wouter W , Heuvel Diana van den , Boonen Rick A , Couturier Anthony M , Mullenders Leon H , Masson Jean-Yves , van Attikum Haico
Published: February 2017

DNA double-strand breaks (DSB) elicit a ubiquitylation cascade that controls DNA repair pathway choice. This cascade involves the ubiquitylation of histone H2A by the RNF168 ligase and the subsequent recruitment of RIF1, which suppresses homologous recombination (HR) in G1 cells. The RIF1-dependent suppression is relieved in S/G2 cells, allowing PALB2-driven HR to occur. With the inhibitory impact of RIF1 relieved, it remains unclear how RNF168-induced ubiquitylation influences HR. Here, we uncover that RNF168 links the HR machinery to H2A ubiquitylation in S/G2 cells. We show that PALB2 indirectly recognizes histone ubiquitylation by physically associating with ubiquitin-bound RNF168. This direct interaction is mediated by the newly identified PALB2-interacting domain (PID) in RNF168 and the WD40 domain in PALB2, and drives DNA repair by facilitating the assembly of PALB2-containing HR complexes at DSBs. Our findings demonstrate that RNF168 couples PALB2-dependent HR to H2A ubiquitylation to promote DNA repair and preserve genome integrity.
Osteopathic Medical Student Practice of Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment During School Break
Authors: Pierce-Talsma Stacey , Hiserote R. Mitchell , Lund Gregg
Published: February 2017

Context: Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) is integral in osteopathic medical education. The timing of the loss of interest, leading to decreasing clinical use, is unclear. Osteopathic medical students’ activities during laboratories or rotations are determined by laboratory or preceptor requirements and do not characterize students’ interest in or how they value OMT. Students who practice OMT when they are not required to may demonstrate that they are interested in, perceive a positive value of, and have confidence in using OMT.

Objective: To characterize preclinical students practicing OMT during their school break.

Methods: First- and second-year students at the Touro University College of Osteopathic Medicine-CA and the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine were surveyed about whether they practiced OMT during winter break, types of conditions addressed, OMT technique(s) used, their practice partners’ response to OMT, and reasons for not practicing OMT, if applicable. Students were also asked if they would have practiced more OMT if they had setups similar to those of the practice environment at school.

Results: Of the 499 surveys sent, 407 (81.6%) were returned. Of 407 students, 269 (66.1%) reported that they practiced OMT during winter break, and they used a full range of OMT techniques. Students reported a total of 551 practice partners and 602 complaints. Overall, 429 of 497 practice partners (86.3%) reported they were much improved or improved, and 6 of 497 (1.2%) felt worse or much worse. The most common reasons for not practicing OMT were that no one had complaints (56.3%) and that there was no place to practice (37.3%).

Conclusion: More than half of surveyed students showed an interest in practicing OMT when it was not required of them. These findings may imply the need for curriculum changes at osteopathic medical schools to ensure student competency with using OMT techniques that take less time and can be done in a variety of settings and with discussing OMT with practice partners.
Az agrár-kockázatkezelési rendszer működésének értékelése 2015
Authors: Keményné Horváth Zsuzsanna , Zubor-Nemes Anna , Kiss Andrea , Lőrincz Katalin
Published: February 2017

A kedvező időjárású 2014. év után 2015-ben megnőtt a káresemények száma, ezért a kárenyhítő juttatás, a biztosítói kárkifizetések összege és a kárhányad is megnőtt. A legjelentősebb károkat az aszály, a jégeső, a tavaszi fagy és a vihar okozta. A károk zöme az ültetvényés zöldségkultúrákat, valamint a kukoricát érintette. A mezőgazdasági biztosítási díjtámogatás 2015-ben átmenetileg – a csoportmentességi rendelet alapján – teljes mértékben központi költségvetési finanszírozásból valósult meg 3 milliárd forint értékben. A díjtámogatásban részesíthető biztosítási szerződések száma több mint 18 százalékkal emelkedett, a díjbevételek az előző évivel közel megegyező szinten, 5,7 milliárd forinton alakultak 2015-ben. Összesen 8664 termelő igényelt biztosítási díjtámogatást 2015-ben, mely meghaladta a díjtámogatott biztosítások forrását, így a 2014. évhez hasonlóan ismét szükségessé vált a visszaosztás. Az „A” típusú biztosítás esetében a 65 százalékos támogatási intenzitás megmaradt, a „B” és „C” típus esetében azonban 52, illetve 30 százalékra mérséklődött.
Rough versus smooth topography along oceanic hotspot tracks: Observations and scaling analysis
Authors: Orellana‐Rovirosa Felipe , Richards Mark
Published: February 2017

Some hotspot tracks are topographically smooth and broad (Nazca, Carnegie/Cocos/Galápagos, Walvis, Iceland), while others are rough and discontinuous (Easter/Sala y Gomez, Tristan‐Gough, Louisville, St. Helena, Hawaiian‐Emperor). Smooth topography occurs when the lithospheric age at emplacement is young, favoring intrusive magmatism, whereas rough topography is due to isolated volcanic edifices constructed on older/thicker lithosphere. The main controls on the balance of intrusive versus extrusive magmatism are expected to be the hotspot swell volume flux Qs, plate hotspot relative speed v, and lithospheric elastic thickness Te, which can be combined as a dimensionless parameter R = (Qs/v)1/2/Te, which represents the ratio of plume heat to the lithospheric heat capacity. Observational constraints show that, except for the Ninetyeast Ridge, R is a good predictor of topographic character: for R < 1.5 hotspot tracks are topographically rough and dominated by volcanic edifices, whereas for R > 3 they are smooth and dominated by intrusion.
Atmosphere‐ocean‐ice interactions in the Amundsen Sea Embayment, West Antarctica
Authors: Turner John , Orr Andrew , Gudmundsson G. Hilmar , Jenkins Adrian , Bingham Robert G. , Hillenbrand Claus‐Dieter , Bracegirdle Thomas J.
Published: February 2017

Over recent decades outlet glaciers of the Amundsen Sea Embayment (ASE), West Antarctica, have accelerated, thinned, and retreated, and are now contributing approximately 10% to global sea level rise. All the ASE glaciers flow into ice shelves, and it is the thinning of these since the 1970s, and their ungrounding from “pinning points” that is widely held to be responsible for triggering the glaciers' decline. These changes have been linked to the inflow of warm Circumpolar Deep Water (CPDW) onto the ASE's continental shelf. CPDW delivery is highly variable and is closely related to the regional atmospheric circulation. The ASE is south of the Amundsen Sea Low (ASL), which has a large variability and which has deepened in recent decades. The ASL is influenced by the phase of the Southern Annular Mode, along with tropical climate variability. It is not currently possible to simulate such complex atmosphere‐ocean‐ice interactions in models, hampering prediction of future change. The current retreat could mark the beginning of an unstable phase of the ASE glaciers that, if continued, will result in collapse of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet, but numerical ice sheet models currently lack the predictive power to answer this question. It is equally possible that the recent retreat will be short‐lived and that the ASE will find a new stable state. Progress is hindered by incomplete knowledge of bed topography in the vicinity of the grounding line. Furthermore, a number of key processes are still missing or poorly represented in models of ice‐flow.
The influence of the length of the calibration period and observation frequency on predictive uncertainty in time series modeling of groundwater dynamics
Authors: van der Spek Joanne E. , Bakker Mark
Published: February 2017

The influence of the length of the calibration period and observation frequency on the predictive uncertainty in time series modeling of groundwater dynamics is investigated. Studied series are from deltaic regions with predominantly shallow groundwater tables in a temperate maritime climate where heads vary due to precipitation and evaporation. Response times vary over a wide range from ∼60 to ∼1200 days. A Transfer Function‐Noise model is calibrated with the Markov Chain Monte Carlo method to both synthetic series and measured series of heads. The model fit and uncertainty are evaluated for various calibration periods and observation frequencies. It is often assumed that the required length of the calibration period is related to the response time of the system. In this study, no strong relationship was observed. Results indicate, however, that the required length of the calibration period is related to the decay time of the noise. Furthermore, the length of the calibration period was much more important than the total number of observations. For the measured series, the credible intervals could commonly be reduced to ∼10% of the measured head range and the prediction intervals to ∼50% of the measured head range with calibration periods of 20 years with approximately two observations per month.
Debates—Hypothesis testing in hydrology: A view from the field: The value of hydrologic hypotheses in designing field studies and interpreting the results to advance hydrology
Authors: McKnight Diane M.
Published: February 2017

Advances in hydrology are greatly needed and approaches that employ hypotheses to guide research have the potential to contribute to future advances. In this context, hypotheses can serve a range of purposes. Overarching hypotheses can provide a common integrating framework for collaborative research and can be revised as research progresses over time. Hypotheses that attempt to explain unexpected field observations or experimental results can provide a guide for designing further field studies. Focused testable hypotheses can facilitate effective presentation of proposed research, and clarify alternative hypotheses. Finally, the value of employing a hypothesis‐based approach depends upon the research environment, which can act as an “environmental filter” in determining successful research outcomes.
ZNT7 binds to CD40 and influences CD154‐triggered p38 MAPK activity in B lymphocytes—a possible regulatory mechanism for zinc in immune function
Authors: Tepaamorndech Surapun , Oort Pieter , Kirschke Catherine P. , Cai Yimeng , Huang Liping
Published: February 2017

Zinc deficiency impairs the immune system leading to frequent infections. Although zinc is known to play critical roles in maintaining healthy immune function, the underlying molecular targets are largely unknown. In this study, we demonstrate that zinc is important for the CD154–CD40‐mediated activation of downstream signaling pathways in human B lymphocytes. CD40 is a receptor localized on the cell surface of many immune cells, including B lymphocytes. It binds to CD154, a membrane protein expressed on antigen‐activated T helper (Th) lymphocytes. This CD154‐CD40 interaction leads to B‐cell activation. We showed that cellular zinc deficiency impaired the CD154‐CD40‐mediated p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) phosphorylation. We also showed that zinc supplemental treatment of B lymphocytes had limited effect on this CD40‐mediated p38 MAPK signaling. Most importantly, we demonstrated that the zinc transporter protein zinc transporter 7 (ZNT7) interacted with CD40 using immunoprecipitation analyses. ZNT7 knockdown in B lymphocytes had a negative effect on the cell surface expression of CD40. Consequently, the CD40‐mediated p38 MAPK signaling transduction was down‐regulated in ZNT7KD B lymphocytes. Conversely, this p38 MAPK signaling activity was up‐regulated by overexpression (OE) of ZNT7 in B lymphocytes. Moreover, we found that ZNT7 knockdown in B lymphocytes constitutively up‐ and down‐regulated the inhibitor of i kappa B kinase and AKT serine/threonine kinase phosphorylation, respectively, which implies the activation of survival signaling in ZNT7KD B cells. We conclude that CD40 is the target molecule for ZNT7 in regulation of immune function of B lymphocytes.
Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Wittekind Christian , Asamura Hisao , Sobin Leslie H.
Published: February 2017

This chapter deals with the staging classification for Hodgkin lymphomas and non&;#x02010;Hodgkin lymphomas. It presents two systems of classification: clinical staging (cS) and pathological staging (pS). The clinical stage describes the anatomic extent of Hodgkin lymphoma and forms the basis for treatment decisions. The pathological stage follows the clinical stage with clinical information supplemented by the information obtained from staging laparotomy and splenectomy. The chapter illustrates four stages, and each stage should be divided into A and B according to the absence or presence of defined general symptoms.
Oesophagus
Authors: Brierley James D. , Gospodarowicz Mary K. , Wittekind Christian
Published: February 2017

Carcinomas, nodes, and metastases arising from the oesophagus and the oesophagogastric junction have been classified clinically and pathologically. Primary sites include the cervical oesophagus, intrathoracic oesophagus, and the oesophagogastric junction. Clinical assessment is based on physical examination, imaging endoscopy, and/or surgical exploration. Factors that influence prognosis have been included.
Colon and Rectum
Authors: Brierley James D. , Gospodarowicz Mary K. , Wittekind Christian
Published: February 2017

Carcinomas, nodes, and metastases arising from the colon and rectum have been classified clinically and pathologically. Primary sites include the colon, rectosigmoid junction, and the rectum. Clinical assessment is based on physical examination, imaging, endoscopy, and/or surgical exploration. Factors that influence prognosis have been included.
Distal Extrahepatic Bile Duct
Authors: Brierley James D. , Gospodarowicz Mary K. , Wittekind Christian
Published: February 2017

Carcinomas, nodes, and metastases arising from the extrahepatic bile ducts distal to the insertion of the cystic duct have been classified clinically and pathologically. Clinical assessment is based on physical examination, imaging, and/or surgical exploration. Factors that influence prognosis have been included.
Soft Tissues
Authors: Brierley James D. , Gospodarowicz Mary K. , Wittekind Christian
Published: February 2017

Primary tumours, nodes, and metastases arising from soft tissues have been classified clinically and pathologically. Primary sites include connective, subcutaneous, and other soft tissues, peripheral nerves, retroperitoneum, and mediastinum. Clinical assessment is based on physical examination and imaging.
Carcinoma of Skin (Excluding Eyelid, Head and Neck, Perianal, Vulva, and Penis)
Authors: Brierley James D. , Gospodarowicz Mary K. , Wittekind Christian
Published: February 2017

Carcinomas, nodes, and metastases arising from the skin have been classified clinically and pathologically. Merkel cell carcinoma has been excluded. Clinical assessment is based on physical examination and imaging. Factors that influence prognosis have been included.
Cervix Uteri
Authors: Brierley James D. , Gospodarowicz Mary K. , Wittekind Christian
Published: February 2017

Carcinomas, nodes, and metastases arising from the cervix uteri have been classified clinically and histologically. Primary sites include the endocervix and the exocervix. Clinical assessment is based on physical examination and imaging. Factors that influence prognosis have been included.
Gestational Trophoblastic Neoplasms
Authors: Brierley James D. , Gospodarowicz Mary K. , Wittekind Christian
Published: February 2017

Gestational trophoblastic tumours and metastases have been classified clinically and histologically. The classification includes choriocarcinoma, hydatiform mole, and placental site trophoblastic tumour. Clinical assessment is based on physical examination, imaging and endoscopy, and serum/urine ßhCG level. Factors that influence prognosis have been included.
Testis
Authors: Brierley James D. , Gospodarowicz Mary K. , Wittekind Christian
Published: February 2017

Germ cell tumours of the testis and the nodes and metastases arising from them have been classified clinically and histologically. Increased serum marker levels are frequently seen. The disease is staged on the basis of the anatomic extent of the tumour and serum marker levels. Factors that affect prognosis have been included.
Urinary Bladder
Authors: Brierley James D. , Gospodarowicz Mary K. , Wittekind Christian
Published: February 2017

Carcinomas, nodes, and metastases arising from the urinary bladder are classified clinically and histologically. Clinical assessment includes physical examination, imaging, and endoscopy. Factors that influence prognosis have been included.
Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Brierley James D. , Gospodarowicz Mary K. , Wittekind Christian
Published: February 2017

Hodgkin lymphoma is staged using the Lugano classification. Clinical staging is based on history, clinical examination, imaging, blood analysis and biopsy report. This system includes Stage I and II under Limited Stage and Stage III and Stage IV under Advanced Stage.
Perihilar Bile Ducts
Authors: Brierley James D. , Gospodarowicz Mary K. , Wittekind Christian
Published: February 2017

Carcinomas of the extrahepatic bile ducts of perihilar localization and the nodes and metastases thereof have been classified clinically and histologically. Clinical assessment is based on physical examination, imaging, and/or surgical exploration.