bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microsatellite primers in the endangered quillwort Isoetes hypsophila (Isoetaceae) and cross‐amplification in I. sinensis
Authors: Li Zuozhou , Han Qingxiang , Chen Yuanyuan , Li Wei
Published: April 2012

• Premise of the study: The first microsatellite primers were developed for Isoetes hypsophila, an endangered quillwort species endemic to the Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau in China, to further describe its genetic variability and population structure. We also examined their cross‐amplification in a congeneric species, I. sinensis.

• Methods and Results: Using the Fast Isolation by AFLP of Sequences COntaining Repeats (FIASCO) protocol, nine microsatellite loci were isolated and characterized in 32 samples from four natural populations of I. hypsophila. The primers amplified di‐ and hexanucleotide repeats with three to 11 alleles per locus. Seven of nine primers were cross‐amplified in I. sinensis with two to seven alleles per locus.

• Conclusion: The microsatellite loci primers will be useful for studies of genetic diversity and gene flow in natural populations of Isoetes species.
Phylogeny of Opuntia s.s. (Cactaceae): Clade delineation, geographic origins, and reticulate evolution
Authors: Majure Lucas C. , Puente Raul , Griffith M. Patrick , Judd Walter S. , Soltis Pamela S. , Soltis Douglas E.
Published: April 2012

• Premise of the study: The opuntias (nopales, prickly pears) are not only culturally, ecologically, economically, and medicinally important, but are renowned for their taxonomic difficulty due to interspecific hybridization, polyploidy, and morphological variability. Evolutionary relationships in these stem succulents have been insufficiently studied; thus, delimitation of Opuntia s.s. and major subclades, as well as the biogeographic history of this enigmatic group, remain unresolved.

• Methods: We sequenced the plastid intergenic spacers atpB‐rbcL, ndhF‐rpl32, psbJ‐petA, and trnL‐trnF, the plastid genes matK and ycf1, the nuclear gene ppc, and ITS to reconstruct the phylogeny of tribe Opuntieae, including Opuntia s.s. We used phylogenetic hypotheses to infer the biogeographic history, divergence times, and potential reticulate evolution of Opuntieae.

• Key results: Within Opuntieae, a clade of Tacinga, Opuntia lilae, Brasiliopuntia, and O. schickendantzii is sister to a well‐supported Opuntia s.s., which includes Nopalea. Opuntia s.s. originated in southwestern South America (SA) and then expanded to the Central Andean Valleys and the desert region of western North America (NA). Two major clades evolved in NA, which subsequently diversified into eight subclades. These expanded north to Canada and south to Central America and the Caribbean, eventually returning back to SA primarily via allopolyploid taxa. Dating approaches suggest that most of the major subclades in Opuntia s.s. originated during the Pliocene.

• Conclusions: Opuntia s.s. is a well‐supported clade that includes Nopalea. The clade originated in southwestern SA, but the NA radiation was the most extensive, resulting in broad morphological diversity and frequent species formation through reticulate evolution and polyploidy.
Purging of inbreeding depression within a population of Oxalis alpina (Oxalidaceae)
Authors: Weber Jennifer J. , Weller Stephen G. , Sakai Ann K. , Nguyen Annie , Tai Nguyen D. , Domínguez César A. , Molina‐Freaner Francisco E.
Published: April 2012

• Premise of the study: Variation among individuals in levels of inbreeding depression associated with selfing levels could influence mating system evolution by purging deleterious alleles, but empirical evidence for this association is limited.

• Methods: We investigated the association of family‐level inbreeding depression and presumed inbreeding history in a tristylous population of Oxalis alpina (Oxalidaceae).

• Key results: Mid‐styled individuals possessed the greatest degree of self‐compatibility (SC) and produced more autogamous capsules than short‐ or long‐styled individuals. Offspring of highly self‐compatible mid‐styled individuals showed reduced inbreeding depression. Mid‐styled plants that produced capsules autogamously exhibited reduced stigma‐anther separation compared to mid‐styled plants that produced no capsules autogamously. Reduced inbreeding depression was not correlated with stigma‐anther separation, suggesting that self‐compatibility and autogamy evolve before morphological changes in stigma‐anther separation.

• Conclusions: Purging of inbreeding depression occurred in SC mid‐styled maternal families. Low inbreeding depression in SC mid‐styled plants may lead to retention of the mid‐styled morph in populations, despite the occurrence of higher selfing rates in mid‐styled relative to short‐ or long‐styled morphs. Variation among individuals in levels of self‐fertilization within populations may lead to associations between inbreeding lineages and lower levels of inbreeding depression, influencing the evolution of mating systems.
Host and geographic structure of endophytic and endolichenic fungi at a continental scale
Authors: U'Ren Jana M. , Lutzoni François , Miadlikowska Jolanta , Laetsch Alexander D. , Arnold A. Elizabeth
Published: April 2012

• Premise of the study: Endophytic and endolichenic fungi occur in healthy tissues of plants and lichens, respectively, playing potentially important roles in the ecology and evolution of their hosts. However, previous sampling has not comprehensively evaluated the biotic, biogeographic, and abiotic factors that structure their communities.

• Methods: Using molecular data we examined the diversity, composition, and distributions of 4154 endophytic and endolichenic Ascomycota cultured from replicate surveys of ca. 20 plant and lichen species in each of five North American sites (Madrean coniferous forest, Arizona; montane semideciduous forest, North Carolina; scrub forest, Florida; Beringian tundra and forest, western Alaska; subalpine tundra, eastern central Alaska).

• Key results: Endolichenic fungi were more abundant and diverse per host species than endophytes, but communities of endophytes were more diverse overall, reflecting high diversity in mosses and lycophytes. Endophytes of vascular plants were largely distinct from fungal communities that inhabit mosses and lichens. Fungi from closely related hosts from different regions were similar in higher taxonomy, but differed at shallow taxonomic levels. These differences reflected climate factors more strongly than geographic distance alone.

• Conclusions: Our study provides a first evaluation of endophytic and endolichenic fungal associations with their hosts at a continental scale. Both plants and lichens harbor abundant and diverse fungal communities whose incidence, diversity, and composition reflect the interplay of climatic patterns, geographic separation, host type, and host lineage. Although culture‐free methods will inform future work, our study sets the stage for empirical assessments of ecological specificity, metabolic capability, and comparative genomics.
Development of polymorphic microsatellite markers in Camellia chekiangoleosa (Theaceae) using 454‐ESTs
Authors: Wen Qiang , Xu Linchu , Gu Yincong , Huang Minren , Xu Lian
Published: April 2012

• Premise of the study: A set of microsatellite markers for Camellia chekiangoleosa was developed and characterized using 454 sequencing technology to study the population genetic structure and the diversity of germplasm collections.

• Methods and Results: Eighteen polymorphic microsatellite markers were identified and tested in 150 individuals from three natural populations of C. chekiangoleosa. Alleles numbered from two to seven, and the observed and expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.100 to 0.760 and 0.133 to 0.809, respectively.

• Conclusions: These markers will potentially be conducive to further genetic studies on C. chekiangoleosa.
Development and characterization of 38 polymorphic microsatellite markers from an economically important fruit tree, the Indian jujube
Authors: Chiou Chu‐Ying , Chiang Yu‐Chung , Chen Chih‐Hsiung , Yen Chung‐Ruey , Lee Sheue‐Ru , Lin Yu‐Shium , Tsai Chi‐Chu
Published: April 2012

• Premise of the study: A total of 38 polymorphic microsatellite loci of the Indian jujube (Ziziphus mauritiana), an economically important fruit tree, were developed to evaluate genetic diversity and aid in the identification of cultivars.

• Methods and Results: The 38 microsatellite markers were isolated from the Indian jujube using a magnetic bead enrichment method, and polymorphisms were identified in 24 Indian jujube cultivars. The number of alleles ranged from two to 13, with expected heterozygosity ranging from 0.261 to 0.898. The polymorphism information content ranged from 0.248 to 0.889, with a mean of 0.616. Of these 38 simple sequence repeat loci, 20 loci from Z. jujuba (Chinese jujube) were successfully amplified using the simple sequence repeat primer sets.

• Conclusions: These polymorphic loci should be useful in further studies of the genetic diversity and the identification of cultivars of both the Indian jujube and the Chinese jujube.
Development of polymorphic microsatellite markers for Cymbidium goeringii (Orchidaceae)
Authors: Hyun Young Se , Kim Joonki , Chung Ki Wha
Published: April 2012

• Premise of the study: Microsatellite markers were developed in Cymbidium goeringii to investigate its genetic diversity and population genetic structure.

• Methods and Results: From a microsatellite‐enriched genomic library, 21 novel polymorphic microsatellites were isolated. The polymorphic patterns were verified in four populations (East Korea, West Korea, China, and Japan). The number of alleles per locus ranged from 11 to 29 with a mean of 20.29. The observed and expected heterozygosities varied from 0.272 to 0.799 and from 0.461 to 0.911, respectively.

• Conclusions: These microsatellite markers will be useful tools for understanding genetic variation and population ecogenetic structure in C. goeringii.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite markers for Plathymenia reticulata (Fabaceae)
Authors: Cruz Mariana V. , Rodrigues Jacqueline G. , Souza Helena A. V. , Lovato Maria Bernadete
Published: April 2012

• Premise of the study: Microsatellite loci were isolated and characterized for use in population genetic studies of Plathymenia reticulata (Fabaceae), a tropical tree widespread in the Atlantic Forest and cerrado biomes of South America.

• Methods and Results: Nine microsatellite markers were developed using a simple sequence repeat–enriched library. Polymorphism was analyzed in 51 individuals from two populations. All loci were polymorphic, with the number of alleles per loci ranging from five to 15 (mean number of alleles: 10.22). Observed and expected heterozygosities per loci and population ranged from 0.313 to 1.000 and 0.280 to 0.869, respectively.

• Conclusions: These highly informative loci are potentially useful to estimate population genetic structure and to understand evolutionary processes and taxonomy of the species.
Microsatellite development for the relictual conifer Araucaria araucana (Araucariaceae) using next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Martín M. Angela , Mattioni Claudia , Lusini Ilaria , Drake Fernando , Cherubini Marcello , Herrera M. Angel , Villani Fiorella , Martín Luis M.
Published: April 2012

• Premise of the study: In this study, the 454 GS‐FLX genome sequence system was used for the identification and characterization of microsatellites in Araucaria araucana, one of the most important and endangered species of Chilean and Argentinean native forests.

• Methods and Results: A total of 35876 reads were identified, 96% of which were within the size range selected for further analysis. Of these, 1563 contained a microsatellite insert suitable for primer design. Ten simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers provided easily interpretable patterns and were used to evaluate the genetic diversity in four populations of the species. The 10 microsatellites showed high polymorphism levels, with a total of 99 alleles and 32 private alleles. The observed heterozygosity was high and ranged from 0.513 to 0.723.

• Conclusions: The primers presented in this study display high genetic diversity and may provide useful information for the design of conservation strategies in Araucaria araucana.
Edaphic adaptation maintains the coexistence of two cryptic species on serpentine soils
Authors: Yost Jenn M. , Barry Teri , Kay Kathleen M. , Rajakaruna Nishanta
Published: April 2012

• Premise of the study: Divergent edaphic adaptation can contribute to reproductive isolation and coexistence between closely related species, yet we know little about how small‐scale continuous edaphic gradients contribute to this phenomenon. We investigated edaphic adaptation between two cryptic species of California wildflower, Lasthenia californica and L. gracilis (Asteraceae), which grow in close parapatry on serpentine soil.

• Methods: We reciprocally transplanted both species into the center of each species’ habitat and the transition zone between species. We quantified multiple components of fitness and used aster models to predict fitness based on environmental variables. We sampled soil across the ridge throughout the growing season to document edaphic changes through time. We sampled naturally germinating seedlings to determine whether there was dispersal into the adjacent habitat and to help pinpoint the timing of any selection against migrants.

• Key results: We documented within‐serpentine adaptation contributing to habitat isolation between close relatives. Both species were adapted to the edaphic conditions in their native region and suffered fitness trade‐offs when moved outside that region. However, observed fitness values did not perfectly match those predicted by edaphic variables alone, indicating that other factors, such as competition, also contributed to plant fitness. Soil water content and concentrations of calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium were likely drivers of differential fitness. Plants either had limited dispersal ability or migrants experienced early‐season mortality outside their native region.

• Conclusions: Demonstrating that continuous habitats can support differently adapted, yet closely related, taxa is important to a broader understanding of how species are generated and maintained in nature.
Microsatellite markers for Grosmannia alacris (Ophiostomataceae, Ascomycota) and other species in the G. serpens complex
Authors: Duong Tuan A. , de Beer Z. Wilhelm , Zanzot James W. , Wingfield Michael J. , Wingfield Brenda D.
Published: April 2012

• Premise of the study: Polymorphic microsatellite markers were developed for the pine‐infecting fungus, Grosmannia alacris.

• Methods and Results: Sixteen microsatellite markers were developed by using inter‐simple sequence repeat (ISSR)–PCRs and 454 sequencing methods. Seven of these markers showed polymorphisms for a South African population of G. alacris, and 13 markers showed polymorphism when European isolates were included. Most of the primer pairs also amplified four closely related species: G. serpens, Leptographium gibbsii, L. castellanum, and L. yamaokae.

• Conclusions: These new markers will be useful for population studies of G. alacris and other species in the G. serpens complex.
Phylogenetics, biogeography, and staminal evolution in the tribe Mentheae (Lamiaceae)
Authors: Drew Bryan T. , Sytsma Kenneth J.
Published: April 2012

• Premise of the study: The mint family (Lamiaceae) is the sixth largest family of flowering plants, with the tribe Mentheae containing about a third of the species. We present a detailed perspective on the evolution of the tribe Mentheae based on a phylogenetic analysis of cpDNA and nrDNA that is the most comprehensive to date, a biogeographic set of analyses using a fossil‐calibrated chronogram, and an examination of staminal evolution.

• Methods: Data from four cpDNA and two nrDNA markers representing all extant genera within the tribe Mentheae were analyzed using the programs BEAST, Lagrange, S‐DIVA, and BayesTraits. BEAST was used to simultaneously estimate phylogeny and divergence times, Lagrange and S‐DIVA were used for biogeographical reconstruction, and BayesTraits was used to infer staminal evolution within the tribe.

• Key results: Currently accepted subtribal delimitations are shown to be invalid and are updated. The Mentheae and all five of its subtribes have a Mediterranean origin and have dispersed to the New World multiple times. The vast majority of New World species of subtribe Menthinae are the product of a single dispersal event in the mid‐late Miocene. At least four transitions from four stamens to two stamens have occurred within Mentheae, once in the subtribe Salviinae, once in the subtribe Lycopinae, and at least twice in the subtribe Menthinae.

• Conclusions: Worldwide cooling trends probably played a large role in the diversification and present day distribution of the tribe Mentheae. Additional work is needed to ascertain relationships within some Mentheae genera, especially in the subtribe Menthinae.
Ce que la fiction fait aux policiers. Réception des médias et identités professionnelles
Authors: Le Saulnier Guillaume
Published: April 2012

Résumé Cet article interroge la réception des fictions policières par les policiers. Fondé sur une enquête ethnographique de trois mois dans la police nationale, il souligne le rapport étroit mais ambivalent entre la réception des médias et les identités professionnelles. Pour les policiers, la fiction véhicule des stéréotypes réducteurs qui engendrent des malentendus et des vexations répétés avec le public, et à ce titre elle menace leur professionnalité. Mais cette critique massive et homogène coexiste avec une appétence marquée pour les séries nord-américaines et les films français. Par un aller-retour entre les récits imaginaires et les expériences vécues, les policiers prennent appui sur la fiction pour produire et justifier une définition subjective de leur rôle et de leur travail.
Projection de films et mise en débat : l'expérience de Ciné Travail
Authors: Fraix Nicolas
Published: April 2012

Résumé Dans le contexte d’un renouveau des approches cinématographiques du travail et d’une médiatisation importante de ce sujet, l’article retrace l’expérience de l’association lyonnaise Ciné-Travail, qui organise depuis une dizaine d’années des séances publiques de réflexion autour de films. Après une description du dispositif de projection et de mise en débat, auquel participe activement l’auteur, ce dernier s’interroge sur les effets des films sur les représentations des spectateurs. L’article amorce une réflexion sur les conditions d’utilisation, dans l’espace public, d’œuvres cinématographiques comme objets de médiation, pour une mise en débat fructueuse des enjeux contemporains du travail.
« Saisir la subjectivité et le travail par le film de fiction ». Rencontre avec Jean-Marc Moutout
Authors: Dejours Christophe , Dujarier Marie-Anne , Gernet Isabelle , Jeantet Aurélie , Rolo Duarte
Published: April 2012

Résumé L’entretien aborde la manière dont le réalisateur Jean-Marc Moutout (Violence des échanges en milieu tempéré, De bon matin…) se saisit de la question du travail. Deux axes de discussion principaux sont dégagés : la manière de présenter le travail et ses rapports avec la subjectivité dans la construction du scénario et la mise en images d’un long métrage d’une part, et ce qui revient de manière spécifique au travail du réalisateur d’autre part. Il ressort de cette discussion que la mise en intrigue filmique, basée sur l’engagement subjectif du réalisateur et sur une coopération interprofessionnelle, aboutit à la révélation des contradictions qui caractérisent les rapports entre subjectivité et travail sur un mode original et parfois plus fécond que ne le permet l’analyse en clinique du travail.
Le travail de Norbert Elias peut-il renforcer les liens entre sociologie et psychodynamique du travail ? À propos de Au-delà de Freud. Sociologie, psychologie, psychanalyse
Authors: Le Lay Stéphane
Published: April 2012

Résumé L’œuvre du sociologue Norbert Elias n’a été que peu discutée en psychologie et en psychodynamique du travail. Pourtant, son intérêt pour la psychanalyse et son attention aux processus d’individuation, aux affects et aux tensions entre coopération et conflits dans les dynamiques collectives, permettent d’envisager des rapprochements. Pour cela, une discussion critique avec son usage de l’œuvre de Freud nécessite d’être menée précisément.
La abstención diferencial en la España de las autonomías. Pautas significativas y mecanismos explicativos
Authors: Riera Pedro
Published: April 2012

La implementación del modelo de organización territorial establecido por la Constitución española de 1978 supone la creación de entidades no estatales con capacidad legislativa y la celebración de elecciones regionales para decidir la composición de los parlamentos autonómicos. La participación registrada en este tipo de comicios es persistente y generalizadamente más baja que la que se da en las elecciones a Cortes Generales. Aquellos ciudadanos que votan en las elecciones generales pero no en las autonómicas son conocidos como abstencionistas diferenciales. A pesar de que este patrón abstencionista se repite elección tras elección en todas las comunidades, su magnitud y consecuencias difieren en cada caso. En este trabajo se exploran las causas de esta variación utilizando los datos agregados de participación en ambos tipos de elecciones en cada autonomía y momento del tiempo. Los resultados de los modelos econométricos especificados parecen apuntar la necesidad de acudir a diversos factores sociodemográficos, políticos e institucionales para explicar la abstención diferencial en la España autonómica.
Living Apart Together en España. ¿Noviazgos o parejas independientes?
Authors: Ayuso Luis
Published: April 2012

El fenómeno de los Living Apart Together (LAT) hace referencia a parejas que no conviven habitualmente en la misma residencia. en españa este fenómeno ha proliferado en los últimos años como consecuencia del retraso en la emancipación familiar. Sin embargo, esta conceptualización agrupa realidades sociales muy diversas. este estudio analiza una muestra de 692 mujeres en LAt de entre 20 y 79 años procedentes del estudio 2.639, Fecundidad y valores en la España del siglo XXI, elaborado por el Centro de estudios Sociológico (CiS) en 2006. en españa existe un 8% de mujeres en esta situación, de las cuales, un 60% pueden considerarse como noviazgos. este fenómeno afecta a todos los estados civiles, con características sociodemográficas y actitudinales diferentes. Existe un 11% de “alternativas” a las uniones convencionales. Se identifican como la persona principal del hogar y rechazan el matrimonio; su perfil responde a mujeres de mediana edad, independientes laboralmente y con hijos.
Subsea Well Intervention Vessel and Systems
Authors: Zijderveld Govert H.T. , Tiebout Han J. , Hendriks S.M. , Poldervaart L.
Published: April 2012

With the present deepwater developments on the increase it is foreseen that adedicated market will develop for vessels capable of intervening on subseawells at a lesser cost than existing deepwater drilling units. Thereby (I)extend the life of deepwater developments rendering additional profits and (II)adhere to minimum field production requirements as are being required by theauthorities more and more to date.

The paper describes the development of the concept for such a Well InterventionVessel resulting from a combined effort between a Naval Architecture DesignBureau and a major rig equipment supplier with a focus on an open equipmentstructure facilitating the possible application of multiple levels of/andintervention solutions. The vessel will target Class B+/(II+) and Class C/(III)type interventions, based upon systems which will use risers and capable ofretrieving completions. Input of operators as well as equipment- and serviceproviders has been used in the development of the concept to develop the opensystem.

The proposed paper shall present in detail the design approach and basis, theconcept design and the operational parameters of the deepwater well completionand intervention vessel. It will also address in detail the specific pieces ofequipment to be used on the vessel.
The Use of Autonomous Underwater Vehicles in Seafloor Massive Sulphide Exploration
Authors: Stevenson Ian
Published: April 2012

Commercial exploration of Seafloor Massive Sulphides (SMS) requires mapping ofthe seafloor at a variety of scales, from regional mapping (> 10,000 km2)to detailed prospect delineation (1- 10 km2). Vessel-based multi beam echosounder (MBES) surveys are commonly used at the regional scale of mapping. Follow-up detailed high-resolution mapping has been undertaken with eitherROV's or deep-towed geosurvey platforms. To date, these techniques have yieldeda high success rate in the discovery of SMS prospects for Nautilus on itsexploration tenements.

With the SMS exploration and production industry still in its early stages, there exists significant opportunities in the re-application of existingtechnologies into this new industry. One technology where there is significantmarket benefit and growth potential is Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV)technology. With a large tenement holding (almost 600, 000 km2 of explorationtenements granted or under application), Nautilus considers AUV technology hasthe ability to deliver faster and improved assessment exploration technique todecrease the cost and delivery time of prospective seafloor sampling and drilltargets.

Although the SMS industry is still in its infancy, it has been possible toevaluate AUV technology for SMS application through joint collaboration withMarine Science Research (MSR) groups with AUV capability, and a keen researchinterest in hydrothermal vents. To date, MSR group AUV's have been utilised inscientific expeditions over Nautilus Minerals' tenements on threeoccasions.

Nautilus Minerals is developing its plans to realise improved explorationquality and productivity with AUV technology including different operating /commercial models to meets its short through to long term explorationrequirements. An important consideration is to modify AUV payload design toinclude sensors specific to SMS exploration. Nautilus is currentlyinvestigating numerous geophysical sensor payloads which are not common tocommercial AUV survey solutions, but are seen as key to further improving SMStarget discovery rate.

This paper will provide a recap on the application AUV technology for SMSexploration and draw from a recent AUV " proof-of-concept" cruise to illustratethe potential of this technology.

Introduction

Commercial exploration of Seafloor Massive Sulphides (SMS) requires mapping ofthe seafloor at a variety of scales, from regional mapping (> 10,000 km2)to detailed prospect delineation (1- 10 km2), using a variety of techniques. There are four phases within the exploration to resource generationprocess:Target GenerationTarget TestingProspect DelineationResource Evaluation
Assessing Integrity and Reliability of Multicomposite LNG Transfer Hoses
Authors: van der Weijde Gerard , van der Putten Sjoerd
Published: April 2012

Reliable transfer systems are a key element in developing floating LNG and thesmall scale LNG market. Multi-composite hoses may prove to be a reliable andcost effective solution for offshore, near- and on-shore applications. TNO, theDutch contract research organization, has executed an extensive test program onthe multi-composite hose of Gutteling B.V. for Ship-to-Ship (STS) LNGtransfers. It has resulted in the qualification of a hose as a product inaccordance to EN1474-part 2. This paper summarizes the test program. Transfersystems needs to be qualified in accordance with EN1474-part 3 which applies arisk based approach. Moreover in order, to provide data to support systemqualification, a complementary test program was performed focused on thebehavior under off-spec conditions. The growing range of composite LNG hoseapplications and the growing interest of industry raise questions on theintegrity and reliability over service life. The paper reviews what factorswill affect the reliability over service life. Mechanical fatigue and creep areidentified as the potential critical failure mechanisms. The paper proposes anapproach to modeling fatigue and creep performance to support thesubstantiation of the hose reliability over service life. Having commonlyaccepted engineering models available will enhance the further application ofcomposite hoses in the floating LNG and small scale LNG market.

Introduction

Transfer systems are a crucial enabler for floating LNG [4], [5]. To offloadLNG offshore, various aerial and floating transfer systems are currently underdevelopment [6], [7]. Some are based on loading arm technology, others on metalflexible pipe or multi-composite hoses. The multi-composite hose consists ofhelical wires, thin liquid tight films of polymeric materials and layers offabric like polymeric materials. For floating hoses the composite hose iscovered with insulation and a polymeric outer hose. Similar composite hoses arefrequently used in the oil and chemical industry for transfer. As such, thecomposite hose technology is not new. However, reliability and safetyrequirements and the cryogenic temperature during operation makes the LNG hosea class on its own.
Offshore Pipeline Trenching In Arctic Regions: A Unique Concept "The Arctic Subsea Bucket Ladder Trencher"
Authors: Berg Nicoline , Frederiks Jeroen , Miedema Sape , Swart Pieter , Plat Robert
Published: April 2012

Pipelay in Arctic offshore regions comes with a number of challenges. Thepipelay process includes safe burial of pipelines, while minimizing thedisturbance to the natural environment is key priority. Deep trenching will benecessary, resulting from deep keeled ice features that can gouge the soil andpresent a threat to the pipelines. In addition, a fast trenching solutionshould be obtained to enable the pipelay operation to be carried out in theshort open water season. So far, this can hardly be carried out by conventionalequipment.

This paper describes a deep and fast trenching method suitable for Arcticconditions. The concept is approached from a dredging industry perspectivesince the huge soil volumes to be excavated relate to practices common in thedredging industry. The views of operating and dredging companies areintegrated, leading to a promising conceptual solution for Arctictrenching.

The purpose of the design case was created to discuss several Arctic trenchingchallenges to find a conceptual solution for deep and fast trenching (6m) inthe Arctic. The case was about trenching through stiff clay in which backpacksize boulders are present, while keeping in mind a high required trenchingspeed (75m/hr) and the desire to keep the spoil to remain as in-situ aspossible to minimize the impact on the environment.

For this base case The Arctic Subsea Bucket Ladder Trencher that is presentedin the paper is a promising method. This Arctic Trencher (AT) has the followingcharacteristics:Precise excavation possible;Highly capable of operating in stiff clay;Relatively low cutting power required;Capable of excavating without compromising the in-situ soil;Boulder handling possible up to the size of the buckets;Trenching possible in one operating season;Proven method in dredging industry: expertise readily available.

Based on the initial base case design conditions it was concluded that thepresented design case has an excellent potential for successful trenching inthe Arctic. Although some uncertainties remain, the authors are continuingdevelopment of the concept to further assure its feasibility. This paper showsthat it is worthwhile to include the joint effort of field operator, pipelay/trenching operator and manufacturer of trenching equipment, to tacklethe challenges when the difficulties of trenching operations increase.
"Lessons Learned" following Macondo - Safety Enhancement on the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf
Authors: Lantz J.G. , Little Patrick , Nadeau John , Reynolds Joshua
Published: April 2012

The Coast Guard is responsible for protecting the marine environment, promotingthe safety of life and property, and ensuring security on the U.S. OuterContinental Shelf (OCS). Based on authorities provided under the OuterContinental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA), the Coast Guard regulates facilities, MODUs, and vessels engaged in or supporting OCS activities. The tragic loss oflife and environmental disaster resulting from the Macondo incident in April2010 focused significant attention on the U.S. OCS, where industry employs tensof thousands of U.S. mariners and offshore workers on over 4,100 U.S. andforeign flagged facilities and vessels engaged in oil and gas exploration andproduction activities.

Though the Macondo incident was not initiated by failures within areas of CoastGuard jurisdiction and the Coast Guard-regulated safety systems generallyperformed well under the extreme conditions, the Coast Guard is reviewing itsregulatory construct and seeking " lessons learned" from this tragic incident. Acontemporary and effective regulatory regime needs to be maintained andconsistently applied to all vessels and facilities engaged in operations on theU.S. OCS.

This paper discusses the Coast Guard's regulatory approach for effectivelymitigating the risk to people, property, and the environment on the U.S.continental shelf. It includes recent work to keep pace with the rapidlyevolving technology employed on the OCS and efforts to ensure contemporary andsensible safety standards are promulgated and enforced.

U.S. Coast Guard Authority and Regulatory Construct on the OCS

The U.S. Coast Guard, within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), hasbroad authority under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA) to regulatethe safety of life and property on facilities and vessels engaged in OCSactivities, and the safety of navigation. In addition, the Coast Guard isresponsible for promoting workplace safety and health by enforcing requirementsrelated to personnel, workplace activities, and conditions and equipment on theU.S. OCS. The Coast Guard is also responsible for security regulations on OCSfacilities, as specified under the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA), and has select duties for regulating deepwater ports as enumerated in theDeepwater Ports Act (DPA), as amended. Other regulatory agencies, such as theBureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) also share jurisdictionover OSC activities. This paper will focus primarily on the Coast Guard role inregulating the safety of facilities and vessels engaged in OCS activities.
Marine Well Containment Company Progress
Authors: Massey Marty
Published: April 2012

Following the Deepwater Horizon incident, ExxonMobil, Chevron, ConocoPhillipsand Shell recognized the need to improve containment capability for a potentialdeepwater well control incident in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico.

This led to the formation of a not-for-profit, independent company, Marine WellContainment Company, which would develop, maintain and advance well containmentsystems for the U.S. Gulf. Following formation, MWCC gained six additionalmembers (for a total of ten member companies): BP, Apache, Anadarko, BHPBilliton, Statoil and Hess. This coming together signified unprecedentedindustry collaboration and is a key reason that drilling has resumed in theU.S. Gulf of Mexico.

Leadership

With a membership that includes the recognized leaders in deepwater drilling, Marine Well Containment Company is already a recognized industry expert indeepwater well containment systems. Approximately 70 percent of the wellsdrilled in the Gulf of Mexico from 2007 through 2009 were drilled by the 10MWCC members.

MWCC's member companies collaborated on developing a deepwater well containmentsystem that provides the American public and government confidence in drillingin the U.S. Gulf of Mexico. These companies have also committed time, effortand considerable resources - including more than $1 billion - to put in placethe containment systems necessary for the deepwater U.S. Gulf of Mexico.

Key Accomplishments

MWCC's interim containment system (ICS) paved the way for the lifting of thedrilling moratorium following the Deepwater Horizon incident. Drilling permitsare again being issued; as of January 1, 2012, 29 cite MWCC's interimcontainment system.

Completed in February 2011, the interim containment system is an accomplishmentthat required a deep and shared sense of commitment and a common, unifiedpurpose. All of the equipment is being maintained in a response-ready state. The capping stack - the centerpiece of the containment system - is pressuretested regularly, and MWCC's dispersant stock is available and ready for use bymembers and non-members who have signed a System Services Agreement. The ICS isengineered to cap or contain a well in deepwater depths up to 8,000 feet. Improvements to the ICS were made that extended the capping-only capability to10,000 feet. If the well will allow, the capping stack can shut in the well andstop the flow of oil without additional system equipment. If there are wellconditions that require that the oil continue to flow, the capping stack willattach to risers and other containment equipment to direct the flow of liquidsto the capture vessels for storage. The liquid will flow through flexible pipesto riser assemblies, configured to connect to the capture vessels at the oceansurface. The system has the capacity to contain up to 60,000 barrels of liquidper day and can handle up to 120 million standard cubic feet of gas perday.
Utilizing Integrated Technology to Develop Leading Indicators and Improve Process Safety Management
Authors: Neill Michael Alexander , Lehmann Scott
Published: April 2012

This paper focuses on an area of PSM which is somewhat overlooked. The area wecall Work Execution (WE) and that encompasses all aspects of planning, executing and managing work on hazardous plants. It is an area which iscritical to safe operations since, second only to road traffic accidents, failures in WE account for the most number of fatalities and serious incidentson hazardous plants. PSM has a focus on safe process plant design and operationwhere multiple layers of protection are installed to minimize the risk ofcontainment loss and to mitigate the consequences loss of containment occur. InWE many of these barriers are systematically removed for good reasons andadditional hazards brought onto the plant raising the level of operationalrisk. The paper introduces the concept of cumulative risk where multiple worktask and other risk factors are being managed individually but the cumulativeeffect of the residual risk is unknown. Currently most WE is managed usingpaper forms in triplicate and as a result, little to no data in this space isgenerated to allow us to properly analyze and manage such risks. New web basedsolutions have been replacing these legacy systems which thus far havedelivered greater rigor on the process and improved efficiency. The nextgeneration of these tools has the ability to measure operational risk in wayswe have not seen before. These generate data which can not only be used aslagging indicators of risk performance but can also be used in predictive modeto provide risk data on near term work plans. Using such data, not onlyimproves governance but the ability will be there for front line supervision tooptimize work plans on the basis of risk as well as for expediency and resourceefficiency. These solutions are designed not just for local site management butwill be deployed at an enterprise level covering many assets and individualsites and providing much greater insight and oversight of risk managementacross an organization.

1. Introduction

As the oil and gas industry continues to grapple with the challenge ofunderstanding how best to react to the lessons of Ma-condo, there is growingrecognition that the answer to the wider challenge of fundamentally improvingthe way the industry operates is not a simple one. Macondo and the resultingresponse by the industry over the past eighteen months or in some cases a lackof a response, indicates that ongoing problems remain with operational riskmanagement and its impact on process safety management (PSM) and decisionmaking. The Chief Counsel's Report; National Commission on the BP DeepwaterHorizon Oil Spill And Offshore Drilling Report to the President, was verydirect in stating that Macondo was more than a series of disparate technicalfailures but an overarching failure of management; " Ultimately, the companiesplaced undue reliance on timely intervention and human judgment in light oftheir failure to provide individuals with the information, tools, and trainingnecessary to be effective" [ref 1]
Report of Two Siblings with Overlapping Features of Ellis-van Creveld and Weyers Acrodental Dysostosis
Authors: Shetty Devi C. , Singh Harkanwal P. , Kumar Prince , Verma Chanchal
Published: April 2012

Skeletal dysplasias are a heterogenous group of disorders combining abnormalities in the skull and other skeletal bones. Weyers acrofacial dysostosis also known as Weyers acrodental dysostosis was first described in 1952, by Weyers, as a postaxial polydactyly, which had features distinct from, yet some in common with the Ellis-van Creveld Syndrome (EvC). Both the syndromes have been mapped to the same chromosome, 4p16. The cases reported here highlight the overlapping features of both syndromes, which are dissimilar in mode of inheritance and phenotypic severity, emphasizing the need for genetic analysis, to categorize these conditions.
Rupture of Plantaris Muscle - A Mimic: MRI Findings
Authors: Gopinath T. N. , Jagdish J. , Krishnakiran K. , Shaji P. C.
Published: April 2012

Calf muscle trauma commonly involves the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles. Plantaris muscle is a vestigial muscle coursing through the calf. Similar clinical features may be seen with injury to the plantaris muscle. It can also mimic other conditions like deep vein thrombosis, rupture of Baker's cyst, and tumors. MRI is helpful in identifying and characterizing it. We report two cases of ruptured plantaris muscle seen on MRI.
Review of Metaplastic Carcinoma of the Breast: Imaging Findings and Pathologic Features
Authors: Leddy Rebecca , Irshad Abid , Rumboldt Tihana , Cluver Abbie , Campbell Amy , Ackerman Susan
Published: April 2012

Metaplastic carcinoma (MPC), an uncommon but often aggressive breast cancer, can be challenging to differentiate from other types of breast cancer and even benign lesions based on the imaging appearance. It has a variable pathology classification system. These types of tumors are generally rapidly growing palpable masses. MPCs on imaging can present with imaging features similar to invasive ductal carcinoma and probably even benign lesions. The purpose of this article is to review MPC of the breast including the pathology subtypes, imaging features, and imaging pathology correlations. By understanding the clinical picture, pathology, and overlap in imaging characteristics of MPC with invasive ductal carcinoma and probably benign lesions can assist in diagnosing these difficult malignancies.
Avoiding Unnecessary Fine-Needle Aspiration Cytology by Accuractely Predicting the Benign Nature of Thyroid Nodules Using Ultrasound
Authors: Vinayak Sudhir , Sande Joyce A.
Published: April 2012

Objective:

The objective of this study was to describe a reliable ultrasound based index scoring system based on ultraound characteristics to identify benign thyroid nodules and avoid unnecessary fine needle aspiration cytology.

Materials and Methods:

Patients undergoing ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) for thyroid nodules were evaluated prospectively. A total of 284 patients were evaluated from November 2005 to November 2011. There were 284 nodules. Any solid or partly solid focal nodule in the thyroid gland was included in the study. Cysts with no solid component were excluded. We used LOGIQ 9 (GE Healthcare) scanner equipped with a 10--14 MHz linear matrix transducer with color and power Doppler capability. Four US characteristics were evaluated, i.e., nodule margins, echo texture, vascularity, and calcification. Fine needle aspiration (FNA) was performed on all nodules. The nodules were labeled benign or suspicious using an ultrasound index score and the results compared with FNAC. Follicular neoplasms on fine-needle aspiration cytology were further assessed by excision biopsy and histology. Cytology/histology was used as the final diagnosis.

Results:

In total 284 nodules were analyzed. All the 234 nodules in US labeled benign category were proven to be benign on cytology/histology. Therefore the specificity of ultrasound in labeling a nodule benign was 100%. Twenty of the 50 nodules that were suspicious on US were malignant. The most significant US differentiating characteristics were nodule margins, vascularity, and microcalcification.

Conclusion:

Our results show that US can accurately characterize benign thyroid nodules using an index scoring system and therefore preclude FNAC in these patients.
Association of Low Maternal Plasma Glucose after Oral Glucose Challenge Test with Small for Gestational Age Neonate
Authors: Kumar Pratap , Bhat Rajeshwari G , Bhagya KV
Published: April 2012

Aims and objectives

To study the association of low maternal plasma sugar with birth weight and neonatal morbidity.

Materials and methods

Glucose challenge test was performed in low risk women, the birth weight and neonatal morbidities were compared between women with low GCT (<88 mg/dl) and normal GCT (88-139 mg/dl).

Results

Incidence of small for gestational age (<2500 gm) was significantly more in women with low GCT (17.3%vs7.3%), but difference in NICU admission between the two groups was not significant statistically.

Conclusion

Prevalence of small for gestational age neonate was significantly higher in women with low GCT compared to women with normal GCT.

How to cite this article

Bhat RG, Bhagya KV, Kumar P. Association of Low Maternal Plasma Glucose after Oral Glucose Challenge Test with Small for Gestational Age Neonate. Int J Infertility Fetal Med 2012;3(1):22-25.
Ultrathin Polymeric Coatings Based on Hydrogen‐Bonded Polyphenol for Protection of Pancreatic Islet Cells
Authors: Kozlovskaya Veronika , Zavgorodnya Oleksandra , Chen Yi , Ellis Kristin , Tse Hubert M. , Cui Wanxing , Thompson J. Anthony , Kharlampieva Eugenia
Published: April 2012

Though transplantation of pancreatic islet cells has emerged as a promising treatment for Type 1 diabetes its clinical application remains limited due to a number of limitations including both pathogenic innate and adaptive immune responses. This paper reports on a novel type of multifunctional cytoprotective material applied to coat living pancreatic islets. The coating utilizes hydrogen‐bonded interactions of a natural polyphenol (tannic acid) with poly(N‐vinylpyrrolidone) deposited on the islet surface via non‐ionic layer‐by‐layer assembly. It is demonstrated that the coating is conformal over the surface of mammalian islets including those derived from rat, non‐human primate (NHP), and human. In contrast to unmodified controls, the coated islets maintain their viability and β‐cell functionality for at least 96 hours in vitro. It is also determined that the coating demonstrates immunomodulatory cytoprotective properties suppressing pro‐inflammatory cytokine synthesis in stimulated bone marrow‐derived macrophages and diabetogenic BDC‐2.5 T cells. The coating material combines high chemical stability under physiologically relevant conditions with capability of suppressing cytokine synthesis, crucial parameters for prolonged islet integrity, viability, and function in vivo. This study offers new opportunities in the area of advanced multifunctional materials to be used for a cell‐based transplantation therapy