bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The -173 G/C Polymorphism of the MIF Gene and Inflammatory Bowel Disease Risk: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Shen Yongchun , Guo Shujin , Yang Ting , Jia Liuqun , Chen Lei , An Jing , Wang Tao , Wen Fuqiang
Published: May 2013

The -173 G/C polymorphism in the macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) gene has been implicated in susceptibility to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), but the results are inconclusive. The present meta-analysis aimed to investigate the overall association between the -173 G/C polymorphism and IBD risk. We searched in Pubmed, and Embase for studies evaluating the association between the -173G/C gene polymorphism and IBD risk. Data were extracted and statistical analysis was performed using Revman 5.1 and STATA 12.0 software. A total of seven publications involving 4729 subjects (2282 IBD cases and 2447 controls) were included in this meta-analysis. Combined analysis revealed a clear association between this polymorphism and IBD susceptibility (OR = 1.48, 95% CI: 1.10–2.00, p = 0.009 for CC vs. CG + GG). Subgroup analysis by ethnicity showed that the IBD risk associated with the -173G/C gene polymorphism was significantly elevated among Asians (OR = 1.79, 95% CI: 1.08–2.96, p = 0.02), but not among Caucasians. Subgroup analysis by disease suggested that the -173G/C gene polymorphism is a risk factor for ulcerative colitis (OR = 1.62, 95% CI: 1.10–2.37, p = 0.01), but that it was not associated with Crohn’s disease. This meta-analysis suggests that the -173 G/C polymorphism in the macrophage MIF gene contributes to IBD susceptibility, specifically in Asian populations. Further studies are needed to validate these findings.
Small Molecule Identification with MOLGEN and Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Meringer Markus , Schymanski Emma
Published: May 2013

This paper details the MOLGEN entries for the 2012 CASMI contest for small molecule identification to demonstrate structure elucidation using structure generation approaches. Different MOLGEN programs were used for different categories, including MOLGEN–MS/MS for Category 1, MOLGEN 3.5 and 5.0 for Category 2 and MOLGEN–MS for Categories 3 and 4. A greater focus is given to Categories 1 and 2, as most CASMI participants entered these categories. The settings used and the reasons behind them are described in detail, while various evaluations are used to put these results into perspective. As one author was also an organiser of CASMI, these submissions were not part of the official CASMI competition, but this paper provides an insight into how unknown identification could be performed using structure generation approaches. The approaches are semi-automated (category dependent) and benefit greatly from user experience. Thus, the results presented and discussed here may be better than those an inexperienced user could obtain with MOLGEN programs.
Effects and Safety of Allogenic Mesenchymal Stem Cell Intravenous Infusion in Active Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients who Failed NSAIDs: A 20-Week Clinical Trial
Authors: Wang Peng , Li Yuxi , Huang Lin , Yang Jiewen , Yang Rui , Deng Wen , Liang Biling , Dai Lie , Meng Qingqi , Gao Liangbin , Chen Xiaodong , Shen Jun , Tang Yong , Zhang Xin , Hou Jingyi , Ye Jichao , Chen Keng , Cai Zhaopeng , Wu Yanfeng , Shen Huiyong
Published: May 2013

Our objective was to evaluate the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of intravenous (IV) infusion of allogenic mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients who are refractory to or cannot tolerate the side effects of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). AS patients enrolled in this study received four IV infusions of MSCs on days 0, 7, 14, and 21. The percentage of ASAS20 responders (the primary endpoint) at the fourth week and the mean ASAS20 response duration (the secondary endpoint) were used to assess treatment response to MSC infusion and duration of the therapeutic effects. Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score Containing C-reactive Protein (ASDAS-CRP) and other preestablished evaluation indices were also adopted to evaluate the clinical effects. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed to detect changes of bone marrow edema in the spine. The safety of this treatment was also evaluated. Thirty-one patients were included, and the percentage of ASAS20 responders reached 77.4% at the fourth week, and the mean ASAS20 response duration was 7.1 weeks. The mean ASDAS-CRP score decreased from 3.6 ± 0.6 to 2.4 ± 0.5 at the fourth week and then increased to 3.2 ± 0.8 at the 20th week. The average total inflammation extent (TIE) detected by MRI decreased from 533,482.5 at baseline to 480,692.3 at the fourth week ( p > 0.05) and 400,547.2 at the 20th week ( p < 0.05). No adverse effects were noted. IV infusion of MSCs is a feasible, safe, and promising treatment for patients with AS.
Forest tree pollen dispersal via the water cycle
Authors: Williams Claire G.
Published: May 2013

• Premise of the Study: Pine pollen (Pinus spp.), along with other atmospheric particles, is dispersed by the water cycle, but this mode of dispersal requires cloud–pollen interactions that depend on taxon‐specific biological properties. In the simplest form of this dispersal, pine pollen ascends vertically to altitudes of 2 to 6 km, where a fraction is captured by mixed‐phase cloud formation. Captured pollen accretes into frozen droplets, which ultimately descend as rain, snow, or hail. Whether Pinus pollen can still germinate after its exposure to high‐altitude freezing is pertinent to (1) how forests adapt to climate change and (2) potential gene flow between genetically modified plantation species and their conspecific relatives.

• Methods: To address this question, pollen from four Old World and two New World Pinus species were subjected to immersion freezing, a common cloud formation mode, under laboratory conditions.

• Key Results: Some pollen grains immersed at −20°C for 15, 60, or 120 min in either a dehydrated or a water‐saturated state were still capable of germination. After exposure, dehydrated pine pollen had higher germination (43.3%) than water‐saturated pollen (7.6%).

• Conclusions: Pine pollen exposed to freezing during cloud formation can still germinate, raising the question of whether rain‐delivered live pollen might be linked to rain‐facilitated pollination. Dispersal of live pine pollen via cloud formation and the water cycle itself deserves closer study.
Amyloid-β probes: Review of structure–activity and brain-kinetics relationships
Authors: Eckroat Todd J , Mayhoub Abdelrahman S , Garneau-Tsodikova Sylvie
Published: May 2013

The number of people suffering from Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is expected to increase dramatically in the coming years, placing a huge burden on society. Current treatments for AD leave much to be desired, and numerous research efforts around the globe are focused on developing improved therapeutics. In addition, current diagnostic tools for AD rely largely on subjective cognitive assessment rather than on identification of pathophysiological changes associated with disease onset and progression. These facts have led to numerous efforts to develop chemical probes to detect pathophysiological hallmarks of AD, such as amyloid-β plaques, for diagnosis and monitoring of therapeutic efficacy. This review provides a survey of chemical probes developed to date for AD with emphasis on synthetic methodologies and structure–activity relationships with regards to affinity for target and brain kinetics. Several probes discussed herein show particularly promising results and will be of immense value moving forward in the fight against AD.
Erbil, Bagdad, Ankara et Washington : la course au pétrole en Irak du Nord
Authors: Kirdar Seda
Published: May 2013

Le pétrole de la région kurde d’Irak suscite l’intérêt de grandes compagnies pétrolières et complique la politique régionale en intensifiant les tensions ethniques et sectaires existantes. Les vastes réserves de pétrole donnent aux Irakiens la possibilité de se remettre des effets néfastes de l’invasion américaine et de la guerre civile qui s’est ensuivie, mais cela pourrait aussi constituer un motif d’intensification des querelles internes et externes. Afin de comprendre les développements actuels dans cette lutte pour les ressources énergétiques, il est nécessaire d’analyser les positions et les stratégies des principaux acteurs en Irak. La dispute entre Erbil et Bagdad pourrait potentiellement escalader en une crise majeure ayant des conséquences sérieuses à Ankara et Washington. Du fait des enjeux politiques et économiques importants pour la Turquie, les modalités des accords entre la Turquie et le Gouvernement régional kurde (KRG) doivent être examinées avec attention. Bien sûr, l’approche américaine est déterminante dans la résolution du conflit, non seulement parce que la superpuissance a militairement renversé le régime de Saddam Hussein et s’efforce encore d’intervenir en Irak, mais aussi parce que les ressources irakiennes en hydrocarbures ont une importance majeure pour les grandes compagnies pétrolières américaines.
Phenolic compounds in mono-cultivar extra virgin olive oils from Algeria
Authors: Douzane M. , Tamendjari A. , Abdi A. K. , Daas M. S. , Mehdid F. , Bellal M. M.
Published: May 2013

The high oxidative stability of virgin olive oil is related to its high monounsaturated/polyunsaturated ratio and to the presence of antioxidant compounds, such as tocopherols and phenols. In this paper, the isolation of phenolic compounds from virgin olive oil from several Algerian varieties was tested and discussed in order to know its potential uses and benefits. Quantification of phenolic and o-diphenolic substances was performed using the traditional Folin-Ciocalteau method and the sodium molybdate reaction, respectively. The qualitative and quantitative characterizations of phenolic compounds were carried out by HPLC.
The experimental results show that tyrosol, hydroxytyrosol and 4-HBA (4-hydroxybenzoic acid) are the main individual phenolic compounds identified in the varieties studied. The varieties with large fruits (Grosse du Hamma, Aghenfas, Azeradj, Aguenaou, Aberkane, Bouchouk de Guergour, X-Aghenfas, Rougette de Guelma, Sigoise) are clearly distinguished from the varieties with medium-sized and small fruits by having the highest levels of individual phenolic compounds. Moreover, varieties with small fruits (Hamra, Chemlal, Boughenfas, Limli, Aimel and Mekki) presented the highest levels of oleuropein.
Lipase-catalyzed glycerolysis of fish oil to obtain diacylglycerols
Authors: Baeza-Jiménez R. , Miranda K. , García H. S. , Otero C.
Published: May 2013

Diacylglycerols (DAG) rich in n-3 residues were successfully produced by Novozym 435-catalysed glycerolysis of n-3 PUFA rich fish oil. Orbital and magnetic agitations were evaluated in order to minimize mass transfer limitations and thus assure the homogeneity of the reactant mixture. Different temperatures (65, 70, 75, 80, 85 and 90 °C) and speeds (300, 500, 700 and 900 rpm) were tested. Optimal conditions to obtain the highest amount of DAG were: 65 °C, with a substrate molar ratio of 3:1 (oil:glycerol), 500 rpm and 15% enzyme load after 2.5 h, with a yield of 60%.
Phospholipid classes and fatty acid composition of ewe’s and goat’s milk
Authors: Zancada L. , Pérez-Díez F. , Sánchez-Juanes F. , Alonso J. M. , García-Pardo L. A. , Hueso P.
Published: May 2013

The content, distribution of individual species, and the fatty acid composition of phospholipids (PL) from ewe’s and goat’s milk were analyzed. The binding of enterotoxigenic and uropathogenic Escherichia coli strains to PL and the inhibition of bacterial hemagglutination by PL were addressed using high performance thin-layer chromatography-overlay assays and microtiter plates, respectively. Ovine and caprine milk contained more PL than bovine milk but less than human milk. The profile of individual PL was similar, including sphingomyelin, phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylserine and phosphatidylinositol in both ovine and caprine milk. Regarding the fatty acid composition, a high content of long-chain fatty acids (more than C16) and unsaturated fatty acids, with C18:1 as the most abundant was found in ovine and caprine milk PL. Ovine milk has longer and less saturated fatty acids while caprine milk has shorter and more saturated ones. Neither the adhesion of any bacterial strains assayed to the individual PL from ovine or caprine milk nor the inhibition of bacterial hemagglutination by PL were observed. These are important constituents of the milk fat globule membrane, but it seems that they do not play a role in the defence of new-borns against bacteria if the results obtained are taken into account.
Cambrian sections in the easternmost southern Rocky Mountains and the adjacent surface, Alberta
Authors: Aitken J D
Published: May 2013

The Cambrian of the eastern most Rocky Mountains and adjacent Plains comprises five depositional cycles, each commencing with fine clastic rocks and ending with carbonate rocks. With one exception, the carbonate facies belt for each successive cycle shifted
progressively northeastward, following the Cambrian marine transgression. The recurrence of a limited number of lithologic associations, or lithofacies, permits graphic representation of the stratigraphy in terms of these lithofacies. Lithologic analogues of the Lower Cambrian Gog Group of the Rocky
Mountains, encountered in the subsurface, are younger than the Gog, and are assigned to the Basal sandstone unit. The Mount Whyte Formation is recognized only where the Cathedral Formation can be delineated; beyond the facies edge of the Cathedral carbonate rocks, the Lower fine clastic unit,
lithologically similar to the Mount Whyte and Stephen Formations, is equivalent to the sequence Mount Whyte -Cathedral-Stephen. Carbonate rocks of the Eldon Formation extend northeast beyond the limit of the Cathedral, but eventually pass into the Lower fine clastic unit. The Pika Formation,
youngest of the Middle Cambrian formations, is remarkable for its uniform and widespread development; carbonate rocks of the Pika extend beyond the limits of the Eldon. The Arctomys and Waterfowl Formations are clearly recognizable in Foothills wells, but no lithologic equivalents are known in the
Plains subsurface, and time-equivalents are thought to be missing. Lithologic and at least partial time -equivalents of the Sullivan Formation in the Plains subsurface are assigned to the Upper fine clastic unit. The Sullivan and the Upper fine clastic unit are overlain by mainly carbonate rocks of
the upper division of the Lynx Group. Except in the east, where thin Lower Ordoviciandeposits may be present, the upper Lynx is overlain by basal Devonian rocks.
Debris flow hazard in the Canadian Rocky Mountains: observations on the geomorphology of montane fans and a methodology for the identification of debris flow hazard on fans in geologically similar northern upland areas
Authors: Jackson L E
Published: May 2013

Valley margins in the Rocky Mountains are locally prone to periodic inundation by debris flows. Alluvial fans and landforms and related features may be constructed by and are loci for debris flow deposition. A total of 103 fans within three areas of the Rocky
Mountain Front Ranges and Main Ranges were studied in order to establish the occurrence and past frequency of debris flows. These three areas are characteristic of a wide range of physiographic settings found in the Rocky and Mackenzie mountains.
Alluvial fans and landforms, at least partly constructed by debris flows, generally have slope angles of 4° or greater whereas strictly fluvially constructed fans have angles less than 4°. Drainage basins in which debris flows reach fans at the basin mouth are predominantly smaller than
10-12 km 2 and have an internal relief of more than 500 m. Basins smaller than 1 km 2 may produce debris flows but avalanche activity is the dominant erosional, transportational, and depositions! process operating in these basins. Indications of past debris flow activity include debris flow levees,
bouldery terrac'es marking former debris flow margins, and large isolated boulders on the fan surface. Debris flow deposits in fans can be identified visually by their matrix-supported structure and texturally by the anomalous association of large components of both pebble and cobble size clasts
(>2 mm .-<64 mm) and clay size ( < 2 1.1 m) particles.
Debris flow hazard is best evaluated by.establishing the past frequency of debris flow events.
Events can be assigned maximum and minimum ages by combinations of 14C dating, dendrochronology, and tephrochronology. Some of the debris flow fans studied were predominantly deposited shortly after deglaciation and have been largely inactive during the past 6600 years. Water courses crossing these
fans are usually deeply incised. These inactive fans provide low hazard sites for development along otherwise high hazard valley margins.
Belewenis van uitbranding by nagraadse teologiese studente van die Gereformeerde Kerke in Suid-Afrika – ’n Pastorale ondersoek
Authors: Niemann Gerhardus J.
Published: May 2013

Die doel met hierdie artikel is om vas te stel wat die belewenis van uitbranding by nagraadse teologiese studente van die Gereformeerde Kerke in Suid-Afrika (GKSA) is. Deur middel van kwantitatiewe empiriese navorsing is vasgestel wat die vlak van uitbranding by nagraadse teologiese studente van die GKSA is. Met die navorsing is vasgestel dat 75% van die nagraadse teologiese studente wat aan die studie deelgeneem het, ’n mate van emosionele uitbranding beleef. Van hierdie 75% het 35% van die deelnemers akute uitbranding beleef en ’n verdere 15% kan binne die ineenstortingstadium van uitbranding gekategoriseer word. Verskeie faktore is geïdentifiseer wat moontlik tot die nagraadse teologiese studente se belewenis van uitbranding kan bydra. Hierdie faktore sluit onder meer in die oneffektiewe bestuur van die werkslading; die belewenis van werksoorlading en ’n gebrek aan die beheer en bestuur van hulle akademiese werkslading; ’n persepsie dat hulle nie genoeg erkenning vir hulle bydrae en of insette ontvang nie; persoonlike probleme in die private lewe van die studente; ’n verlies aan werksvreugde en gebrekkige interpersoonlike verhoudings; ’n gebrek aan die opleiding van emosionele vaardighede en interpersoonlike verhoudings in die kurrikulum; ’n gebrek aan die handhawing van gesonde emosionele grense en die volhoubare ontwikkeling van die student se eie geestelike lewe; asook ’n tekort aan die vervulling van persoonlike doelwitte. 1 Konings 19 word as bybelse vertrekpunt gebruik vir die behandeling en voorkoming van uitbranding by nagraadse teologiese studente van die GKSA. The aim of this article is to establish to what extent the postgraduate theological students of the Reformed Churches in South Africa (RCSA) experience burnout. Quantitative empirical research was conducted to establish their levels of burnout. The researcher found that 75% of the postgraduate students had experienced burnout to some extent. Out of these 75% participants, 35% experienced acute burnout, and a further 15% could be classified as being in the breakdown phase of burnout. Various factors were identified that may contribute to the postgraduate theological students’ experiencing of burnout. These factors include inter alia the ineffective management of the academic work load; their experiencing of overload and a lack of control over the amount of academic work; perceptions that they are not rewarded sufficiently for their contributions; personal problems in their private lives; a lack of emotional development and growth and a need for interpersonal skills training in their curriculum; a lack of maintaining healthy emotional boundaries; structuring and ordering of the postgraduate theological students’ own spiritual life; and a lack of fulfilment of goals. 1 Kings 19 is used as a biblical basis for the treatment and prevention of emotional burnout among the postgraduate theological students of the RCSA.
Nucleolus-like bodies in the pineal gland of the adult yak (Bos grunniens)
Authors: Xie Zhaohui H. , Gan Ping
Published: May 2013

The pineal glands of adult yak were studied electron microscopically. Nucleolus-like bodies (NLBs) were found mostly in the pinealocytes and the interstitial cells of the pineal glands of the yak. The NLBs were electron-dense, round or ovoid bodies with a diameter of 50 nm – 500 nm. Two types of granules were identified as melanin. These may correspond to different stages of a progressive storage of melanin. Rough endoplasmic reticula with abundant ribosomes were observed. There was no correlation between the number of NLBs and the sex of the animals.
The Drawbacks of Preferential Trade Agreements in Asia
Authors: Dieter Heribert
Published: May 2013

Preferential trade agreements have spread throughout Asia. However, they have not facilitated intra-regional trade as much as their supporters have suggested. The complexities of rules of origin – part and parcel of all preferential agreements – have resulted in low utilization rates in Asia. The key driver of trade integration in Asia has instead been the rise of China. In the past two decades, China has managed to establish itself as the indispensable trading partner in the region. In 2011, China ran a trade deficit with its neighbouring countries whilst running surpluses with the USA and the EU. At the same time, deeper trade integration in Asia, e.g. an Asian wide customs union, appears to be an unrealistic goal. At this juncture, the political obstacles that hinder a deepening of co-operation are formidable. Other Asian countries wish to cooperate with China, but they demonstrate an ever-rising reluctance to enter far-reaching integration projects with Bejing.
CLARA-A1: a cloud, albedo, and radiation dataset from 28 yr of global AVHRR data
Authors: Karlsson K.-G. , Riihelä A. , Müller R. , Meirink J. F. , Sedlar J. , Stengel M. , Lockhoff M. , Trentmann J. , Kaspar F. , Hollmann R. , Wolters E.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. A new satellite-derived climate dataset – denoted CLARA-A1 ("The CM SAF cLoud, Albedo and RAdiation dataset from AVHRR data") – is described. The dataset covers the 28 yr period from 1982 until 2009 and consists of cloud, surface albedo, and radiation budget products derived from the AVHRR (Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer) sensor carried by polar-orbiting operational meteorological satellites. Its content, anticipated accuracies, limitations, and potential applications are described. The dataset is produced by the EUMETSAT Climate Monitoring Satellite Application Facility (CM SAF) project. The dataset has its strengths in the long duration, its foundation upon a homogenized AVHRR radiance data record, and in some unique features, e.g. the availability of 28 yr of summer surface albedo and cloudiness parameters over the polar regions. Quality characteristics are also well investigated and particularly useful results can be found over the tropics, mid to high latitudes and over nearly all oceanic areas. Being the first CM SAF dataset of its kind, an intensive evaluation of the quality of the datasets was performed and major findings with regard to merits and shortcomings of the datasets are reported. However, the CM SAF's long-term commitment to perform two additional reprocessing events within the time frame 2013–2018 will allow proper handling of limitations as well as upgrading the dataset with new features (e.g. uncertainty estimates) and extension of the temporal coverage.
Determination of gaseous and particulate carbonyls (glycolaldehyde, hydroxyacetone, glyoxal, methylglyoxal, nonanal and decanal) in the atmosphere at Mt. Tai
Authors: Kawamura K. , Okuzawa K. , Aggarwal S. G. , Irie H. , Kanaya Y. , Wang Z.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. Gaseous and particulate semi-volatile carbonyl compounds were determined every three hours in the atmosphere of Mount Tai (elevation, 1534 m) in the North China Plain during 2–5, 23–24 and 25 June 2006 under clear sky conditions. Using a two-step filter cartridge in a series, particulate carbonyls were first collected on a quartz filter and then gaseous carbonyls were collected on a quartz filter impregnated with O-benzylhydroxylamine (BHA). After the two-step derivatization with BHA and N,O-Bis(trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide (BSTFA), carbonyl derivatives were measured using a gas chromatography. The gaseous concentrations were obtained as follow: glycolaldehyde (range 0–826 ng m−3, average 303 ng m−3), hydroxyacetone (0–579 ng m−3, 126 ng m−3), glyoxal (46–1200 ng m−3, 487 ng m−3), methylglyoxal (88–2690 ng m−3, 967 ng m−3), n-nonanal (0–500 ng m−3, 89 ng m−3), and n-decanal (0–230 ng m−3, 39 ng m−3). These concentrations are among the highest ever reported in the urban and forest atmosphere. We found that gaseous α-dicarbonyls (glyoxal and methylglyoxal) are more than 20 times more abundant than particulate carbonyls and that glycolaldehyde is one order of magnitude more abundant than in aerosol phase. In contrast, hydroxyacetone and normal aldehydes (nonanal and decanal) are equally present in both phases. Time-resolved variations of carbonyls did not show any a clear diurnal pattern, except for hydroxyacetone. We found that glyoxal, methylglyoxal and glycolaldehyde positively correlated with levoglucosan (a tracer of biomass burning), suggesting that a contribution from field burning of agricultural wastes (wheat crops) is significant for the bifunctional carbonyls in the atmosphere of Mt. Tai. Upward transport of the pollutants to the mountaintop from the low lands in the North China Plain is a major process to control the distributions of carbonyls in the upper atmosphere over Mt. Tai.
An evaluation of the CMAQ reproducibility of satellite tropospheric NO2 column observations at different local times over East Asia
Authors: Irie H. , Yamaji K. , Ikeda K. , Uno I. , Itahashi S. , Ohara T. , Kurokawa J.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. Despite the importance of the role of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) in tropospheric chemistry, the causes leading to the discrepancy between satellite-derived and modeled tropospheric NO2 vertical column densities (VCDs) over East Asia remain unclear. Here the reproducibility of satellite tropospheric NO2 VCD data by a regional chemical transport model (CMAQ) with the Regional Emission inventory in ASia (REAS) Version 2 is evaluated from the viewpoint of the diurnal variation of tropospheric NO2 VCDs, where satellite observations at different local times (SCIAMACHY/ENVISAT, OMI/Aura, and GOME-2/Metop-A) are utilized considering literature validation results. As a case study, we concentrate on June and December 2007 for a detailed evaluation based on various sensitivity simulations, for example with different spatial resolutions (80, 40, 20, and 10 km) for CMAQ. For June, CMAQ generally reproduces absolute values of satellite NO2 VCDs and their diurnal variations over all 12 selected diagnostic regions in East Asia. In contrast, a difficulty arises in interpreting the significant disagreement between satellite and CMAQ values over most of the diagnostic regions in December. The disagreement cannot be explained by any of the sensitivity simulations performed in this study. To address this, more investigations, including further efforts for satellite validations in wintertime, are needed.
Global changes in dryland vegetation dynamics (1988–2008) assessed by satellite remote sensing: combining a new passive microwave vegetation density record with reflective greenness data
Authors: Andela N. , Liu Y. Y. , van Dijk A. I. J. M. , de Jeu R. A. M. , McVicar T. R.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. Drylands, covering nearly 30% of the global land surface, are characterized by high climate variability and sensitivity to land management. Here, two satellite observed vegetation products were used to study the long-term (1988–2008) vegetation changes of global drylands: the widely used reflective-based Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and the recently developed passive-microwave-based Vegetation Optical Depth (VOD). The NDVI is sensitive to the chlorophyll concentrations in the canopy and the canopy cover fraction, while the VOD is sensitive to vegetation water content of both leafy and woody components. Therefore it can be expected that using both products helps to better characterize vegetation dynamics, particularly over regions with mixed herbaceous and woody vegetation. Linear regression analysis was performed between antecedent precipitation and observed NDVI and VOD independently to distinguish the contribution of climatic and non-climatic drivers in vegetation variations. Where possible, the contributions of fire, grazing, agriculture and CO2 level to vegetation trends were assessed. The results suggest that NDVI is more sensitive to fluctuations in herbaceous vegetation, which primarily use shallow soil water whereas VOD is more sensitive to woody vegetation, which additionally can exploit deeper water stores. Globally, evidence is found for woody encroachment over drylands. In the arid drylands, woody encroachment seems to be at the expense of herbaceous vegetation and a global driver is interpreted. Trends in semi-arid drylands vary widely between regions, suggesting that local rather than global drivers caused most of the vegetation response. In savannas, besides precipitation, fire regime plays an important role in shaping trends. Our results demonstrate that NDVI and VOD provide complementary information, bringing new insights on vegetation dynamics.
The Irish famine of 1740–1741: famine vulnerability and "climate migration"
Authors: Engler S. , Mauelshagen F. , Werner J. , Luterbacher J.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. The "Great Frost" of 1740 was one of the coldest winters of the eighteenth century and impacted many countries all over Europe. The years 1740–1741 have long been known as a period of general crisis caused by harvest failures, high prices for staple foods, and excess mortality. Vulnerabilities, coping capacities and adaptation processes varied considerably among different countries. This paper investigates the famine of 1740–1741 in Ireland applying a multi-indicator model developed specifically for the integration of an analysis of pre-famine vulnerability, the Famine Vulnerability Analysis Model (FVAM). Our focus is on Ireland, because famine has played a more outstanding role in Irish national history than in any other European country, due to the "Great Famine" of 1845–1852 and its long-term demographic effects. Our analysis shows that Ireland was already particularly vulnerable to famine in the first half of the eighteenth century. During and after the experience of hardship in 1740–1741, many Irish moved within Ireland or left the country entirely. We regard migration as a form of adaptation and argue that Irish migration in 1740–1741 should be considered as a case of climate-induced migration.
Numerical analysis of earthquake response of an ultra-high earth-rockfill dam
Authors: Dong W. X. , Xu W. J. , Yu Y. Z. , Lv H.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. Failure of high earth dams under earthquake may cause disastrous economic damage and loss of lives. It is necessary to conduct seismic safety assessment, and numerical analysis is an effective way. Solid-fluid interaction has a significant influence on the dynamic responses of geotechnical materials, which should be considered in the seismic analysis of earth dams. The initial stress field needed for dynamic computation is often obtained from postulation, without considering the effects of early construction and reservoir impounding. In this study, coupled static analyses are conducted to simulate the construction and impounding of an ultra-high earth rockfill dam in China. Then based on the initial static stress field, dynamic response of the dam is studied with fully coupled nonlinear method. Results show that excess pore water pressure accumulates gradually with earthquake and the maximum value occurs at the bottom of core. Acceleration amplification reaches the maximum at the crest as a result of whiplash effect. Horizontal and vertical permanent displacements both reach the maximum values at the dam crest.
Managing Trade Contacts in HotRest Intermediate Markets: A Resource-Based View Analysis in EU Countries
Authors: Droli Maurizio , Chang Ting Fa Margherita , Iseppi Luca , Piccinini Livio Clemente
Published: May 2013

Trade contacts in the intermediate market, or intermediate trade contacts (ITC), are transactional capital resources. They are measured by business-to-business purchases or sales. The objective of this work is to evaluate the impact of ITC sales on the sustained competitive advantage of hotels and restaurants, ‘HotRests’, in EU countries. In a resource-based view framework, only valuable (above-normal) and rare (concentrated) ITC become relevant. Using EU input–output tables and applying the supply-driven model, the relationships between the multiplier and the valuable and rare resources are identified. The main finding is that ‘HotRests' have the opportunity to manage their business-to-business relationships as a resource asset-flow to speed up innovation processes and defend their competitive advantage.
Physiological, Behavioral, and Dietary Characteristics Associated with Hypertension among Kenyan Defence Forces
Authors: Mundan Victor , Muiva Margaret , Kimani Samuel
Published: May 2013

Background. Hypertensive disease is increasing in developing countries due to nutritional transition and westernization. Hypertensive disease among Kenya military may be lower because of health-focused recruitment, physical activities, routine checkups, and health awareness and management, but the disease has been increasing.
Purpose. The purpose of this study was to determine physiological, behavioral, and dietary characteristics associated with hypertension among Kenyan military. Methods. A cross-sectional study involving 340 participants was conducted at Armed Forces Memorial Hospital. Participants' history, risk factors assessment, and dietary patterns were obtained by structured questionnaire, while physiological and anthropometric parameters were measured. Results. Hypertensive participants were likely to have higher age, physiological, and anthropometric measurements, and they participated in peace missions. Daily alcohol and smoking, frequent red meat, and inadequate fruits and vegetables were associated with hypertension.
Conclusions. The findings mimic the main risk factors and characteristics for hypertensive disease in developed countries whose lifestyle adoption is happening fast in low and middle-income countries. Whether or not prediction rules and/or risk scores may identify at-risk individuals for preventive strategy for targeted behavioral interventions among this population require investigation.
Multi-Segment Foam Flow Field in Ambient Pressure Polymer Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell
Authors: Cheng Chih-Kai , Jao Ting-Chu , Chi Pei-Hung , Hsu Che-Jung , Weng Fang-Bor , Su Ay , Heng Tsao
Published: May 2013

In order to produce low-cost flow field plates for polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells, we used nickel foam in this study rather than conventional flow field. Nickel foam has high electron conductivity, thermal conductivity, and mechanical strength. Electrochemical impedance spectrum analysis is carried out to evidence the use on flow field plates of nickel foam. From the impedance fitting results, the nickel foam cases showed the lower contact resistance than the serpentine. However, such plates have poor performance at low temperatures and ambient pressure. In order to overcome this, a multi-segment foam flow field is designed in this study. This increased the performance of the polarization curve by 70% from 162 to 275.5 mw cm-2 than the original nickel foam design. Also, the mass transfer resistance was reduced, and the Warburg impedance value of the operation voltage decreased by 0.4 V. The numerical analysis results demonstrate that increased segment numbers can increase the performance of the multi-segment foam flow field.
A Qualitatively New Effect in Corporative Finance: Abnormal Dependence of Cost of Equity of Company on Leverage
Authors: Brusov P.N. , Filatova T.V. , Orekhova N.P.
Published: May 2013

Qualitatively new effect in corporative finance is discovered: decreasing of cost of equity ke with leverage L. This effect, which is absent in perpetuity Modiglianiâ€“Miller limit, takes place under account of finite lifetime of the company at profit tax rate, which exceeds some value T*. At some ratios between cost of debt and cost of equity the discovered effect takes place at profit tax rate, existing in western countries and Russia. This provides the practical meaning of discussed effect. Its accounting is important at modification of tax low and can change the dividend policy of the company. In paper the complete and detailed investigation of discussed effect, discovered within Brusov â€“ Filatova â€“ Orekhova theory (BFO theory), has been done. It has been shown, that the absence of the effect at some particular set of parameters is connected to the fact, that in these cases T* exceeds 100% (profit tax rate is situated in â€nonâ€“ financialâ€ region).
Human marrow erythropoiesis in culture: II. Heterogeneity in the morphology, time course of colony formation, and sedimentation velocities of the colony‐forming cells
Authors: Ogawa Makio , Maceachern Martha D. , Avila Lobelia
Published: May 2013

Time course examination on human marrow erythxoid colony formation was carried out in methylcellulose culture by scoring colonies with clear signs of hemoglobinization. The colonies were arbitrarily divided into 3 categories: small colony, containing fewer than 50 cells; medium‐sized colony, containing 50‐500 cells; and large colony, containing more than 500 cells. The majority of the large colonies assumed the morphology of bursts consisting of several subcolonies. Small colonies became hemoglobinized, reached their peak on Day 4, and rapidly disappeared. Medium‐sized colonies gradually increased, reached their peak on Day 8, and then slowly declined. Large colonies became hemoglobinized beginning on Day 11 and continued to be present until Day 18.

We then examined the cell sizes of the erythropoietic precursor using sedimentation velocity analysis. Bone marrow nucleated cells were separated in a Staput apparatus and fractions of equal volume were analyzed for their content of colony‐forming units (CFU). The mean of modal sedimentation velocities of late erythroid precursors, CFU‐E4 (CFU‐E for 4‐day‐old small colonies), was 6.46 mm/hour, while that of CFU‐E14 (CFU‐E for 14‐day‐old large colonies) was 5.17 mm/hour.

These studies demonstrate the heterogeneity of human erythroid precursors assayable in culture and emphasize the necessity for clear standardization of scoring colonies.
Chromosomes and causation of human cancer and leukemia: XXVIII. Value of detailed chromosome studies on large numbers of cells in CML
Authors: Sonta Shin‐Ichi , Sandberg Avery A.
Published: May 2013

Comparison of the chromosome findings obtained on routine examination (10‐50 cells) of the marrows from patients with Ph1 ‐positive CML with those based on a large number (110‐500 cells) of metaphases in six of these patients, in whom appropriate material was available, revealed the presence of small percentages of aneuploid cells in the marrow during the chronic phase of the disease and not seen with the routine procedure. These aneuploid cells may ultimately constitute the dominant clone during the blastic phase of the chronic myelocytic leukemia (CML). Furthermore, karyotypically abnormal cells, in addition those observed on routine study, were detected in the blastic phase when a large number of cells was examined. The value and implications of these observations are discussed.
A computer program for the diagnosis of hematologic disorders
Authors: Reich Paul R. , Geer Daniel E. , Bleich Howard L.
Published: May 2013

A computer program has been developed to assist medical personnel in the diagnosis of hematologic disorders. The program requests information such as the patient's hematocrit, white blood‐cell count, platelet count, and selected physical findings. Major problems are identified, and the program then requests further information as needed to determine whether the patient has 1 or more of 174 hematologic disorders. An evaluation note is then printed that summarizes the most important hematologic data and includes a list of selected hematologic diagnoses, a discussion of why each diagnosis is listed, a description of its pathophysiology and information concerning etiology and treatment. The printout concludes with pertinent references to the medical literature.

When the program was tested with 135 patients referred for hematologic consultation, diagnoses produced by the program were in complete agreement with the hematologist in 87 cases, in partial agreement in 23 cases and not in agreement in 25 cases. The program was also tested with 34 hematologic cases from the New England Journal of Medicine's Clinical‐Pathological Conferences. In 24 patients, the computer and anatomic diagnoses were in complete or partial agreement, and in 10 they disagreed. Anecdotal evidence suggests that explanations of pathophysiology contained in the evaluation notes may be useful to students. It is concluded that the program could be useful as a memory aid for the practitioner and as a teaching aid for the student.
Hematopoietic engraftment following transplantation of bone marrow cells carrying a Philadelphia (Ph′)‐like chromosome
Authors: Graze Peter , Sparkes Robert , Como Ronald , Gale Robert P.
Published: May 2013

A phenotypically normal donor for bone marrow transplantation was found to have a previously unreported karyotype, 46, XY, t(18q+; 22q‐), resulting in a Ph′‐like chromosome. Identification of the Ph′‐like chromosome in cultures of skin fibroblasts, phytohemaglutinin‐stimulated peripheral blood cells, and bone marrow cells from the marrow donor, but not in cell cultures from siblings or parents, indicated that it represented an acquired somatic mutation. Demonstration of the Ph′‐like chromosome in the marrow graft recipient's blood and bone marrow cells after transplantation provided a unique and definitive marker of engraftment. Hematopoiesis appeared normal in both the donor and recipient after transplantation. This study indicates that a mutation creating a Ph′‐like chromosome in hematopoietic cells need not produce hematologic abnormality. Presence of this translocation did not appear to interfere with normal hematopoietic or lymphoid differentiation and replication in the transplant setting.
Multiple myeloma terminating in lymphocytic leukemia with B‐lymphocyte membrane markers
Authors: Polliack Aaron , Naparstek Elizabeth , Eldor Amiram , Zvi Amos Ben , Bassat Hannah Ben , Zlotnick Avinoam
Published: May 2013

The development of lymphocytic leukemia with a rapidly fatal clinical course is reported in a patient with kappa light‐chain multiple myeloma treated with alkeran. The leukemic cells lacked the ultrastructural features of plasma cells but bore readily detectable B‐cell markers and resembled lymphocytes under the light, transmission, and scanning electron microscopes. The leukemic phase is perhaps best defined as lymphocytic and probably represents a variant of plasma cell leukemia, in which the cells showed a degree of dedifferentiation from plasma cells to B lymphocytes. The possible relation between these 2 proliferative processes is discussed and the nature of leukemias developing in cases of plasma cell myeloma is briefly reviewed.
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia‐well‐differentiated lymphocytic lymphoma with monoclonal iga: IgA production by circulating lymphocytes
Authors: Stein Richard S. , Kozin Franklin , Rothwell David
Published: May 2013

A patient is described in whom morphologic features of well‐differentiated lymphocytic lymphoma (WDL) or chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and immunologic features of multiple myeloma were present. Studies of isolated peripheral blood lymphocytes demonstrated de novo synthesis of IgA k, the same paraprotein that was identified in the serum. Predominant IgA synthesis by peripheral lymphocytes has not been previously shown in either WDL or CLL.
Acute myelogenous leukemia subsequent to therapy for a different neoplasm: Clinical features and response to therapy
Authors: Preisler Harvey D. , Lyman Gary H.
Published: May 2013

The clinical characteristics of 10 patients with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) which developed subsequently to treatment for another neoplasm are described. This disease appears to differ from “spontaneous” AML in being associated with lesser degrees of leukemic infiltration of the marrow and more frequent chromosomal aberrations. Only one of the nine patients who received chemotherapy attained remission status, and the mean and median survivals from the initiation of chemotherapy were 2.7 months and one month respectively. Nine of the 10 patients died as a result of infection. The refractoriness of this form of AML to chemotherapy was borne out by a review of the literature, which revealed only two remissions in 32 treated patients. The implications for the management of this disease are discussed.
Chemotaxis radioassays: A simplified, quantitative method using technetium‐99m radiocolloid labeled granulocytes
Authors: English Denis , McPherson T. A.
Published: May 2013

Selective labeling of phagocytes in human blood can be achieved by incubation of unseparated, heparinized blood with 99mTc‐sulfur colloid. We have developed a method for quantitation of granulocyte Chemotaxis using granulocytes labeled by this technique. The method was found to be more accurate and less tedious to perform than the conventional Boyden chamber Chemotaxis assay. The assay was also less time‐consuming and as quantitative as a previously described granulocyte Chemotaxis radioassay in which 51Cr‐labeled leukocytes were used. The simplicity and reliability of this technique and the ready availability of 99mTc‐sulfur colloid may provide one standardized method for granulocyte Chemotaxis quantitation in clinical and experimental medicine.
Synthesis, structure and cytotoxicity of new 2‐[(3‐aminopropyl)dimethylsilyl]‐5‐furfural diethylacetals and 2‐[(3‐aminopropyl)dimethylsilyl]‐5‐phenylfurans
Authors: Ignatovich Luba , Muravenko Velta , Spura Jana , Popelis Jury , Domrachova Ilona , Shestakova Irina
Published: May 2013

Novel 2‐[(3‐aminopropyl)dimethylsilyl]‐5‐furfural diethylacetals and 2‐[(3‐aminopropyl)di‐methylsilyl]‐5‐phenylfurans have been synthesized by a hydrosilylation reaction of aliphatic and heterocyclic N‐allylamines in the presence of the Speier's catalyst. The effects of the structure of the amine and nature of organic substituent at the furan ring on the cytotoxicity of the new compounds have been studied. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cationic starch for microalgae and total phosphorus removal from wastewater
Authors: Anthony Renil , Sims Ronald
Published: May 2013

The city of Logan, Utah treats wastewater in 460 acres of facultative lagoons. Naturally growing algae in these lagoons uptake nutrients and remediate the wastewater, but require coagulation and flocculation for separation from wastewater. Cationic corn starch and cationic potato starch with a degree of substitution 1.34 and 0.82, respectively, were synthesized using 3‐methacryloyl amino propyl trimethyl ammonium chloride and tested on Scenedesmus obliquus and lagoon wastewater. The zeta potential of the cationic starches tested over a pH range 5.0–10.0 showed an average of +16.0 and +15.1 mV for cationic corn starch and cationic potato starch, respectively. Total suspended solids removals of 90 and 85% were achieved with cationic corn starch and cationic potato starch, respectively, when tested with S. obliquus. Tests with wastewater showed total suspended solids removals of 80 and 60% for cationic corn starch and cationic potato starch, respectively. Total phosphorus removal values from wastewater were approximately 33, 29, and 42% for cationic corn starch, cationic potato starch, and alum, respectively, for a coagulant/algae ratio of 1.4 (wt/wt). These results indicate that cationic starch has the potential to replace alum for algae harvesting and wastewater treatment making it a suitable alternative to inorganic coagulants and flocculants. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 2572–2578, 2013