bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A NEW INTERFACE CEMENT EQUILIBRATED MORTAR (NICEM) METHOD WITH ROBIN INTERFACE CONDITIONS: THE P1 FINITE ELEMENT CASE
Authors: JAPHET CAROLINE , MADAY YVON , NATAF FREDERIC
Published: February 2013

We design and analyze a new non-conforming domain decomposition method, named the NICEM method, based on Schwarz-type approaches that allows for the use of Robin interface conditions on non-conforming grids. The method is proven to be well posed. The error analysis is performed in 2D and in 3D for P1 elements. Numerical results in 2D illustrate the new method.
MATHEMATICAL MODELING OF AUXIN TRANSPORT IN PROTOXYLEM AND PROTOPHLOEM OF ARABIDOPSIS THALIANA ROOT TIPS
Authors: NOVOSELOVA EKATERINA S. , MIRONOVA VICTORIA V. , OMELYANCHUK NADYA A. , KAZANTSEV FEDOR V. , LIKHOSHVAI VITALY A.
Published: February 2013

Phytohormone auxin is the main regulator of plant growth and development. Nonuniform auxin distribution in plant tissue sets positional information, which determines morphogenesis. Auxin is transported in tissue by means of diffusion and active transport through the cell membrane. There is a number of auxin carriers performing its influx into a cell (AUX\LAX family) or efflux from a cell (PIN, PGP families). The paper presents mathematical models for auxin transport in vascular tissues of Arabidopsis thaliana L.root tip, namely protophloem and protoxylem. Tissue specificity of auxin active transport was considered in these models. There is PIN-mediated auxin efflux in both protoxylem and protophloem, but AUX1-mediated influx exists only in protophloem. Optimal values of parameters were adjusted for model solutions to fit the experimentally observed auxin distributions in the root tip. Based on simulation results we predicted that shoot-derived auxin flow to protophloem is lower than one to protoxylem, and the efficiency of PIN-mediated auxin transport in protophloem is higher than in protoxylem. In summary, our simulation showed that despite the same auxin distribution pattern, provascular tissues in the root tip differ in dynamics of auxin transport.
IDEAL QUANTUM READING OF OPTICAL MEMORIES
Authors: DALL'ARNO MICHELE , BISIO ALESSANDRO , MAURO D'ARIANO GIACOMO
Published: February 2013

Quantum reading is the art of exploiting the quantum properties of light to retrieve classical information stored in an optical memory with low energy and high accuracy. Focusing on the ideal scenario where noise and loss are negligible, we review previous works on the optimal strategies for minimal-error retrieving of information (ambiguous quantum reading) and perfect but probabilistic retrieving of information (unambiguous quantum reading). The optimal strategies largely overcome the optimal coherent protocols (reminiscent of common CD readers), further allowing for perfect discrimination. Experimental proposals for optical implementations of optimal quantum reading are provided.
THE CAUCHY PROBLEM FOR CONSERVATION LAWS WITH A MULTIPLICATIVE STOCHASTIC PERTURBATION
Authors: BAUZET CAROLINE , VALLET GUY , WITTBOLD PETRA
Published: February 2013

We study the Cauchy problem for multi-dimensional nonlinear conservation laws with multiplicative stochastic perturbation. Using the concept of measure-valued solutions and Kruzhkov's entropy formulation, the existence and uniqueness of an entropy solution is established.
AB-INITIO CALCULATIONS OF ELECTRONIC PROPERTIES AND QUANTUM TRANSPORT IN U-SHAPED GRAPHENE NANORIBBONS
Authors: CUONG NGUYEN TIEN , MIZUTA HIROSHI , CONG BACH THANH , OTSUKA NOBUO , CHI DAM HIEU
Published: February 2013

Graphene is a promising candidate as a material used in nano-scale devices because of recent developments in advanced experimental techniques. Motivated by recent successful fabrications of U-shaped graphene channel transistors by using the gallium focused ion beam technology, we have performed ab-initio calculations to investigate the electronic properties and quantum transport in U-shaped graphene nanoribbons. The electronic properties are calculated using a numerical atomic orbital basis set in the framework of the density functional theory. The transport properties are investigated using the non-equilibrium Green's function method. The transmission spectra of U-shaped graphenes are analyzed in order to reveal the quantum transport of the systems. We found that the graphene nanoribbons tend to open a band gap when U-shaped structures are formed in both armchair and zigzag cases. The geometrical structures of U-shaped GNRs had enormous influences on the electron transport around the Fermi energy due to the formation of quasi-bound states at zigzag edges. The obtained results have provided valuable information for designing potential nano-scale devices based on graphenes.
Voltage-sensitive dye imaging reveals shifting spatiotemporal spread of whisker-induced activity in rat barrel cortex
Authors: Lustig Brian R. , Friedman Robert M. , Winberry Jeremy E. , Ebner Ford F. , Roe Anna W.
Published: February 2013

In rats, navigating through an environment requires continuous information about objects near the head. Sensory information such as object location and surface texture are encoded by spike firing patterns of single neurons within rat barrel cortex. Although there are many studies using single-unit electrophysiology, much less is known regarding the spatiotemporal pattern of activity of populations of neurons in barrel cortex in response to whisker stimulation. To examine cortical response at the population level, we used voltage-sensitive dye (VSD) imaging to examine ensemble spatiotemporal dynamics of barrel cortex in response to stimulation of single or two adjacent whiskers in urethane-anesthetized rats. Single whisker stimulation produced a poststimulus fluorescence response peak within 12–16 ms in the barrel corresponding to the stimulated whisker (principal whisker). This fluorescence subsequently propagated throughout the barrel field, spreading anisotropically preferentially along a barrel row. After paired whisker stimulation, the VSD signal showed sublinear summation (less than the sum of 2 single whisker stimulations), consistent with previous electrophysiological and imaging studies. Surprisingly, we observed a spatial shift in the center of activation occurring over a 10- to 20-ms period with shift magnitudes of 1–2 barrels. This shift occurred predominantly in the posteromedial direction within the barrel field. Our data thus reveal previously unreported spatiotemporal patterns of barrel cortex activation. We suggest that this nontopographical shift is consistent with known functional and anatomic asymmetries in barrel cortex and that it may provide an important insight for understanding barrel field activation during whisking behavior.
DNA methylation is correlated with gene expression during early pregnancy in Bos taurus
Authors: Walker Caroline G. , Littlejohn Mathew D. , Meier Susanne , Roche John R. , Mitchell Murray D.
Published: February 2013

Coordinated regulation of endometrial gene expression is essential for successful pregnancy establishment. A nonreceptive uterine environment may be a key contributor to pregnancy loss, as the majority of pregnancy losses occur prior to embryo implantation. DNA methylation has been highlighted as a potential contributor in regulating early pregnancy events in the uterus. It was hypothesized that DNA methylation regulates expression of key genes in the uterus during pregnancy. The correlation between DNA methylation and gene expression was tested. Endometrial samples from fertile and subfertile dairy cow strains were obtained at day 17 of pregnancy or the reproductive cycle. Microarrays were used to characterize genome-wide DNA methylation profiles and data compared with previously published transcription profiles. 39% of DNA methylation probes assayed mapped to RefSeq genes with transcription measurements. Correlations among gene expression and DNA methylation were assessed, and the 1,000 most significant correlations used for subsequent analysis. Of these, 52% percent were negatively correlated with gene expression. When this gene list was compared with previously reported gene expression studies on the same tissues, 42% were differentially expressed when pregnant and cycling animals were compared, and 11% were differentially expressed when pregnant fertile and subfertile animals were compared. DNA methylation status was correlated with gene expression in several pathways implicated in early pregnancy events. Although these data do not provide direct evidence of a causative association between DNA methylation and gene expression, this study provides critical support for an effect of DNA methylation in early pregnancy events and highlights candidate genes for future studies.
Release of IL-1βTriggered by Milan Summer PM10: Molecular Pathways Involved in the Cytokine Release
Authors: Bengalli Rossella , Molteni Elisabetta , Longhin Eleonora , Refsnes Magne , Camatini Marina , Gualtieri Maurizio
Published: February 2013

Particulate matter (PM) exposure is related to pulmonary and cardiovascular diseases, with increased inflammatory status. The release of the proinflammatory interleukin- (IL-) 1β, is controlled by a dual pathway, the formation of inactive pro-IL-1β, through Toll-like receptors (TLRs) activation, and its cleavage by NLRP3 inflammasome. THP-1-derived macrophages were exposed for 6 h to 2.5 μg/cm2of Milan PM10, and the potential to promote IL-1βrelease by binding TLRs and activating NLRP3 has been examined. Summer PM10, induced a marked IL-1βresponse in the absence of LPS priming (50-fold increase compared to unexposed cells), which was reduced by caspase-1 inhibition (91% of inhibition respect summer PM10-treated cells) and by TLR-2 and TLR-4 inhibitors (66% and 53% of inhibition, resp.). Furthermore, summer PM10increased the number of early endosomes, and oxidative stress inhibition nearly abolished PM10-induced IL-1βresponse (90% of inhibition). These findings suggest that summer PM10contains constituents both related to the activation of membrane TLRs and activation of the inflammasome NLPR3 and that TLRs activation is of pivotal importance for the magnitude of the response. ROS formation seems important for PM10-induced IL-1βresponse, but further investigations are needed to elucidate the molecular pathway by which this effect is mediated.
Nature-Inspired Coordination Models: Current Status and Future Trends
Authors: Omicini Andrea
Published: February 2013

Coordination models and languages are meant to provide abstractions and mechanisms to harness the space of interaction as one of the foremost sources of complexity in computational systems. Nature-inspired computing aims at understanding the mechanisms and patterns of complex natural systems in order to bring their most desirable features to computational systems. Thus, the promise of nature-inspired coordination models is to prove themselves fundamental in the design of complex computational systems|such as intelligent, knowledge-intensive, pervasive, adaptive, and self-organising ones. In this paper, we survey the most relevant nature-inspired coordination models in the literature, focussing in particular on tuple-based models, and foresee the most interesting research trends in the field.
Right Coronary Artery Originated from the Left Anterior Descending Artery in a Patient with Congenital Pulmonary Valvular Stenosis
Authors: Hoşoğlu Yusuf , Örem Cihan , Ekrem Turan Oğuzhan , Öztürk Mustafa , Gedikli Ömer , Hoşoğlu Ayşe , Şahin Mürsel
Published: February 2013

The single coronary artery, anomalous origin of the right coronary artery from the left anterior descending artery, is a benign and very rare coronary artery anomaly. We firstly present a case with this type of single coronary artery and congenital pulmonary valvular stenosis with large poststenotic dilatation.
Synthesis and Morphological Transformation of Conjugated Amphiphilic Diblock Copolymers in Mixed Solvents
Authors: Yu Yang-Yen , Hsu Chung-Yi , Li Guo-You
Published: February 2013

The synthesis, morphological transformation, and photophysical properties of a rod‐coil block copolymer, poly[2,7‐(9,9‐dihexylfluorene)]‐block‐poly(2‐vinylpyridine) (PF‐b‐P2VP), with P2VP coils of various lengths in a mixed methanol/tetrahydrofuran (MeOH/THF) solvent are reported. Various morphological structures of PF‐b‐P2VP aggregates, including spheres, short worm‐like structures, long cylinders, and large compound micelles (LCMs), were observed after varying the coil length of PF‐b‐P2VP and the selectivity of mixed solvents. These aggregated structures demonstrated considerable variation with regard to optical absorption, fluorescence, and the PL quantum yield of rod‐coil copolymers. The degree of hypsochromic spectral shift was enhanced as the length of P2VP coils and the content of poor solvent increased. This study reveals the influence of coil length and selectivity of solvents on the morphology and the optical characteristics of rod‐coil amphiphilic copolymers.
Osteoporotic Hip Fractures: The Burden of Fixation Failure
Authors: Broderick J. M. , Bruce-Brand R. , Stanley E. , Mulhall K. J.
Published: February 2013

Osteoporotic hip fractures are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the elderly. Furthermore, reduced implant anchorage in osteoporotic bone predisposes towards fixation failure and with an ageing population, even low failure rates represent a significant challenge to healthcare systems. Fixation failure in fragility fractures of the hip ranges from 5% in peritrochanteric fractures through to 15% and 41% in undisplaced and displaced fractures of the femoral neck, respectively. Our findings, in general, support the view that failed internal fixation of these fragility fractures carries a poor prognosis: it leads to a twofold increase in the length of hospital stay and a doubling of healthcare costs. Patients are more likely to suffer a downgrade in their residential status upon discharge with a consequent increase in social dependency. Furthermore, the marked disability and reduction in quality of life evident before salvage procedures may persist at long‐term followup. The risk, of course, for the elderly patient with a prolonged period of decreased functioning is that the disability becomes permanent. Despite this, however, no clear link between revision surgery and an increase in mortality has been demonstrated in the literature.
Antioxidant Activity and Cardioprotective Effect of a Nonalcoholic Extract ofVaccinium meridionaleSwartz during Ischemia-Reperfusion in Rats
Authors: Lopera Yasmin E. , Fantinelli Juliana , González Arbeláez Luisa F. , Rojano Benjamín , Ríos José Luis , Schinella Guillermo , Mosca Susana
Published: February 2013

Our objective was to assess the antioxidant properties and the effects against the reperfusion injury of a nonalcoholic extract obtained by fermentation from the Colombian blueberry, mortiño (Vaccinium meridionaleSwartz, Ericaceae). Antioxidant properties were assessed byin vitrosystems. To examine the postischemic myocardial function, isolated rat hearts were treated 10 min before ischemia and during the first 10 min of reperfusion with the extract. To analyze the participation of nitric oxide (NO), other experiments were performed in the presence of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibition withNG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME). In cardiac tissue thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) concentration, reduced glutathione (GSH) content, endothelial NOS (eNOS), and Akt expression were also measured. The blueberry extract showed higher total phenols and anthocyanins contents, scavenging activity of superoxide radical and systolic and diastolic function was improved, TBARS diminished, GSH was partially preserved, and both NOS and Akt expression increased in hearts treated with the extract. These beneficial effects were lost when eNOS was inhibited. In resume, these data show that the increase of eNOS expression via Akt and the scavenging activity contribute to the cardioprotection afforded by acute treatment with Colombian blueberry extract against ischemia and reperfusion injury.
Inhibition of Androgen Receptor Expression with Small Interfering RNA Enhances Cancer Cell Apoptosis by Suppressing Survival Factors in Androgen Insensitive, Late Stage LNCaP Cells
Authors: Kim Sang Soo , Cho Hee Joo , Kang Jung Yoon , Kang Hee Kyu , Yoo Tag Keun
Published: February 2013

Introduction.The aim was to evaluate the changes of androgen receptor (AR) expression quantitatively and to identify influence of AR on cancer related survival markers in LNCap cell line. Materials and Methods. We compared expressions of AR, heat shock protein 27 (HSP27), clusterin (CLU), glucose‐related protein 78 (GRP78), and cellular FLICE‐like inhibitory protein (c‐FLIP) and their genes between es‐LNCaP (less than 33 times subcultured, L‐33), ls‐LNCaP (over 81 times subcultured, H‐81), and si‐LNCaP (AR siRNA transfected ls‐LNCaP) by Western blotting and RT‐PCR. Results. The expressions of AR, HSP27, CLU, GRP78, and c‐FLIP were increased in ls‐LNCaP compared with es‐LNCaP (AR, 157%; HSP27, 132%; CLU, 146%; GRP78, 138%; c‐FLIP, 152%). However, in si‐LNCaP cell line, protein expressions were reversed to the level of es‐LNCaP cell lines (25, 102, 109, 98, and 101%), and gene expressions on real‐time PCR were also reversed to the expression level of es‐LNCaP (ls‐LNCaP: 179, 156, 133, 123, and 167%; si‐LNCaP: 22, 93, 103, 112, and 107%). Conclusions. This finding suggests that androgen receptor can be related to the increased expression of cancer related survival markers such as HSP27, GRP78, CLU, and c‐FLIP in late stage prostate cancer, and also inhibition of AR gene can be a therapeutic target in this stage of cancer.
Intestinal Obstruction in Pregnancy: A Case Report
Authors: Rauff Shakina , Chang Stephen Kin Yong , Tan Eng Kien
Published: February 2013

Background. Intestinal obstruction in pregnancy is uncommon. The condition is associated with significant maternal and fetal mortality. The delay in diagnosis is due to nonspecific symptoms and a disinclination to carry out radiologic investigations in pregnancy.Case. A 39-year-old lady at 32 weeks of gestation presented with abdominal pain and nausea. Her symptoms worsened during admission. A computed tomography (CT) scan showed dilated small bowel loops suggestive of intestinal obstruction. She eventually underwent a laparotomy as conservative measures failed.Conclusion. A high index of clinical suspicion is required to diagnose intestinal obstruction in pregnancy. Prompt diagnosis should be made and the appropriate treatment instituted. Surgical intervention should be performed if necessary as further delay only results in increased morbidity and mortality.
How and Why Do Junior Doctors Study? What Materials Do They Use?
Authors: Wiggins Natasha , Haldar Sananda , Biswas Seema
Published: February 2013

Context. Junior doctors studying for exams need reliable information close at hand. Objectives. We set out to understand the resources junior doctors use to study and revise. Methods. A questionnaire was circulated to junior hospital doctors within a single UK deanery sitting membership examinations, asking what motivates them to study, what resources they use to learn and revise, and what qualities they look for in the ideal learning and revision resource. Findings. We received a 70% response to the questionnaire (140 out of 200 doctors) and found that nearly all doctors are motivated to study by examinations (95%, ) and by patients they look after on the wards (73%, ). Their ideal learning resources comprise case-based learning (64%, ). They use textbooks at least as much as online resources and learn directly from their seniors. Discussion and Conclusion. To tailor learning and revision resources for junior doctors we need nationwide research on how they learn and revise. This study supports the development of reliable case-based learning material in print and, and the collaboration of educators and junior doctors who have clear ideas about the resources they want to use.
Studies of Electrolytic Conductivity of Some Polyelectrolyte Solutions: Importance of the Dielectric Friction Effect at High Dilution
Authors: Ghazouani Anis , Boughammoura Sondes , M′Halla Jalel
Published: February 2013

We present a general description of conductivity behavior of highly charged strong polyelectrolytes in dilute aqueous solutions taking into account the translational dielectric friction on the moving polyions modeled as chains of charged spheres successively bounded and surrounded by solvent molecules. A general formal limiting expression of the equivalent conductivity of these polyelectrolytes is presented in order to distinguish between two concentration regimes and to evaluate the relative interdependence between the ionic condensation effect and the dielectric friction effect, in the range of very dilute solutions for which the stretched conformation is favored. This approach is illustrated by the limiting behaviors of three polyelectrolytes (sodium heparinate, sodium chondroitin sulfate, and sodium polystyrene sulphonate) characterized by different chain lengths and by different discontinuous charge distributions.
Accidental Ingestion of Molar Band and Its Management: Maintenance Is Better than Management
Authors: Naragond Appasaheb , Kenganal Smitha , Rajasigamani K. , Kumar N. Sathish
Published: February 2013

Ingestion of a broken part of fixed orthodontic appliance is a potential complication during orthodontic treatment. We report a case of accidental ingestion of molar band and its subsequent diagnosis followed by endoscopic retrieval method. Although prevention of such incidence is the best method at the same time management of such an event is also crucial. The objective of this paper is to draw attention to the potentially serious complications that can occur if preventive techniques are not practiced and also the management of such event.
Overweight, Obesity, and Neighborhood Characteristics among Postpartum Latinas
Authors: Keller Colleen , Todd Michael , Ainsworth Barbara , Records Kathryn , Vega-Lopez Sonia , Permana Paska , Coonrod Dean , Nagle Williams Allison
Published: February 2013

Background. Weight gain during the childbearing years and failure to lose pregnancy weight after birth contribute to the development of obesity in Latinas.Design and Methods.Madres para la Salud(Mothers for Health) is a 12-month prospective, randomized controlled trial exploring a social support intervention with moderate-intensity physical activity to effect changes in body fat, systemic and fat tissue inflammation, and depression symptoms in sedentary postpartum Latinas. This paper describes the initial body composition of the sample, social support, and neighborhood contextual correlations of overweight and obese Latina mothers within the first 6 months after birth.Results. The mean body mass index was 29.68 with 38.56% bioelectrical impedence analysis for body fat. Elements of the environment (e.g., opportunities to walk) received middle or high scores. Access to healthy food was positively related to favorability of the walking environment. Waist-to-hip ratio was uncorrelated with other obesity-related indices.Conclusions. The body adiposity of these Latina mothers was coupled with low levels of social support from family and friends and neighborhood characteristics that were unfavorable to walking.
Moisture Sorption Characteristics of Corn Stover and Big Bluestem
Authors: Karunanithy C. , Muthukumarappan K. , Donepudi A.
Published: February 2013

Moisture content is an important feedstock quality in converting it into energy through biochemical or thermochemical platforms. Knowledge of moisture sorption relationship is useful in drying and storage to preserve the quality of feedstocks. Moisture sorption isotherms for potential feedstocks such as corn stover and big bluestem are missing. EMC values of corn stover and big bluestem were determined using static gravimetric technique with saturated salt solutions (ERH 0.12–0.89) at different temperatures (20, 30, and 40°C). Depending upon the ERH values, EMC values were ranged from 8.0 to 19.6 and 8.8 to 19.2% db for corn stover and big bluestem, respectively, and they followed typical type II isotherm found in food materials. Nonlinear regression was used to fit five commonly used three-parameter isotherm models (i.e., modified Oswin model, modified Halsey model, modified Chung-Pfost model, modified Henderson model, and the modified Guggenheim-Anderson-de Boer (GAB) model) to the experimental data. Modified Halsey emerged as the best model with highF-statistic andR2values with lowEmandEsand fairly random scattered residual plot for corn stover and big bluestem. These models can be used to predict the equilibrium moisture content of these feedstocks starting from harvesting, drying, preprocessing, transportation, storage, and conversion.
Predictive Biomarkers to Anti-VEGF Therapy: Progress toward an Elusive Goal
Authors: Gyanchandani Rekha , Kim Seungwon
Published: February 2013

The search for reliable biomarkers predictive of response to anti-VEGF therapy has been elusive. VEGF-A, the therapeutic target of bevacizumab, is an intuitive candidate as a predictive biomarker to bevacizumab-based anticancer therapy. However, there remains much controversy in the use of VEGF-A as a predictor of response to bevacizumab. Clin Cancer Res; 19(4); 755–7. ©2012 AACR.
Expression of Intermediate Filaments in the Balbiani Body and Ovarian Follicular Wall of the Japanese Quail (Coturnix japonica)
Authors: Rodler Daniela , Sinowatz Fred
Published: February 2013

In the present study, we examined the distribution of 6 groups of intermediate filaments (IFs; cytokeratins, CKs, vimentin, synemin, desmin, glial fibrillary acidic protein and lamins) in oocytes and follicular walls of the Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) during their development using immunohistochemical and ultrastructural techniques. A distinctly vimentin- and synemin-positive Balbiani body, which is a transient accumulation of organelles (mitochondria, Golgi complex and endoplasmic reticulum) that occurs in the oocytes of all vertebrates including birds, could be detected in the oocytes of primordial and early pre-vitellogenic follicles. In larger pre-vitellogenic follicles, the Balbiani body has dispersed and the positivity of the granulosa cells appeared to concentrate in the basal portion of their cytoplasm. Our ultrastructural data demonstrated that the matrix of the Bal-biani body consists of fine IFs, which may play a role in the formation and dispersion of the Balbiani body. Of the CKs studied (panCK, CK5, CK7, CK8, CK14, CK15, CK18 and CK19), only CK5 showed a slight positive staining in both the theca externa and the Balbiani bodies of pre-vitellogenic oocytes. In conclusion, our data, which describe the changes in avian IF protein expression during folliculogenesis, suggest that the functions of the IFs (vimentin and synemin) of oocytes and follicular walls are not primarily mechanical but may be involved in the transient tethering of mitochondria in the area of the Balbiani body and in the gain of endocrine competence during the differentiation of granulosa cells.
Ovarian Tissue Cryopreservation by Vitrification in Olive Baboons (Papio Anubis): A Pilot Study
Authors: Nyachieo Atunga , Spiessens Carl , Chai Daniel C. , Kiulia Nicholas M. , Willemen Dorien , Mwenda Jason M. , Bourgain Claire , D'Hooghe Thomas M.
Published: February 2013

Background: Ovarian tissue cryopreservation by vitrification is an attractive technique for fertility preservation in women. However, this technique has not been optimized. The aim of this study was to evaluate the baboon as a model for the preclinical study of ovarian tissue cryopreservation by vitrification and thawing. Methods: Ovarian cortical tissues (1-mm cubes) were obtained surgically from adult female olive baboons (n = 9) maintained in captivity and vitrified using dimethyl sulphoxide and ethylene glycol protocol. The proportion of morphologically intact follicles (primordial, primary and secondary) in paired fresh and cryopreserved (vitrified-thawed) ovarian tissues was compared. Results: Overall, 67.1% of follicles were morphologically normal after vitrification. When compared to fresh ovarian tissue, vitrified-thawed ovarian tissue contained a comparable number of intact primordial follicles (48.9 vs. 52.9%), and a lower number of both primary (14.8 vs. 29.5%; p < 0.05) and secondary (2.0 vs. 0.7%; p < 0.05) follicles. Conclusion: After vitrification and thawing, baboon ovarian tissue retains about 67% of morphologically normal follicles, which is comparable to results for human ovarian tissue, and suggests that the olive baboon is a promising animal model for preclinical assessment of ovarian vitrification, thawing and autotransplantation studies.
Neuropsychological Detection of the Early Stage of Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment without Objective Memory Impairment
Authors: Murayama Norio , Tagaya Hirokuni , Ota Kazumi , Fujishiro Hiroshige , Manabe Yuta , Sato Kiyoshi , Isek Eizo
Published: February 2013

Aim: We investigate the assessment method to detect the early stage of amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) using Wechsler Memory Scale – Revised (WMS-R) and Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale – Third Edition (WAIS-III). Methods: Three groups (normal group, aMCI group, and early aMCI group), controlled for age and years of education, underwent brain 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (18F-FDG PET), WAIS-III, WMS-R, and other tests. The early aMCI group does not fulfill the clinical diagnostic criteria of aMCI because patients do not have objective memory impairment, but their clinical symptoms and results of 18F-FDG PET indicate that they should be included in the category of aMCI. Results: The discrepancy of scores between Verbal IQ and General Memory had the highest accuracy in discriminating between normal and early aMCI groups. Conclusion: The cutoff point determined in this study is useful to detect an early stage of aMCI, which may be distinguished from aMCI using the current criteria.
Studies on the genus Aporcelaimellus Heyns, 1965 (Nematoda, Dorylaimida, Aporcelaimidae). Four typical species with simple uterus from Southern Iberian Peninsula
Authors: ÁLVAREZ-ORTEGA SERGIO , ABOLAFIA JOAQUÍN , PEÑA-SANTIAGO REYES
Published: February 2013

Three new and one known species of the genus Aporcelaimellus with simple uterus and typical caudal region, mainly col-lected in natural areas of southeastern Iberian Peninsula, are studied, including descriptions, measurements, line illustra-tions and LM pictures. Aporcelaimellus baeticus sp. n. is characterized by a body length of 1.96–2.95 mm, lip region offset by constriction and 17–20 μm broad, odontostyle 17–22 μm long, neck 510–635 μm long, pharyngeal expansion 250–335 μm long, a dorsal cell mass at level of anterior end of intestine, uterus 60–150 μm long or 0.9–1.7 times the corresponding body diameter, vulva transverse (V = 48–54), tail convex conoid with broadly rounded terminus (30–46 μm, c = 47–80, c’ = 0.7–1.1), spicules 99–103 μm long, and 18–21 irregularly spaced ventromedian supplements which lack hiatus. Apor-celaimellus brevicaudatus sp. n. is characterized by a body length of 1.54–2.14 mm long, lip region offset by a more or less distinct constriction and 14–16 μm broad, odontostyle 13–15 μm long, neck 512 μm long, pharyngeal expansion 255 μm long, uterus 39–57 μm long or 0.9–1.0 times the corresponding body diameter, V = 50–55, tail short and rounded to hemispherical (24–27 μm, c = 66–82, c’ = 0.6–0.7) with inner core hardly reaching the middle of tail length, and male unknown. Aporcelaimellus rotundus sp. n. is characterized by its body 2.01–2.58 mm long, lip region offset by constriction and 19–20 μm broad, odontostyle 22–23 μm long, neck 455–579 μm long, pharyngeal expansion 226–316 μm long, a dis-tinct dorsal cell mass present at cardia level, uterus 28–74 μm long or 0.5–0.9 times the corresponding body diameter, V = 47–52, female tail short and conoid to rounded (27–33 μm, c = 64–90, c’ = 0.7–0.9), and males unknown. New data, including SEM pictures, sequences and taxonomic comments, are provided for A. waenga.
Temporal–Spatial Climate Variability in the Headwater Drainage Basins of the Yangtze River and Yellow River, China
Authors: Sang Yan-Fang , Wang Zhonggen , Liu Changming , Gong Tongliang
Published: February 2013

Variability of the climate in the headwater drainage basins of the Yangtze River and Yellow River during 1961–2010 was investigated by examining four typical climatic variables: daily minimum, mean, and maximum temperatures and daily precipitation. The results indicate that the temporal trends vary among the climatic variables and the time periods examined. The increase in daily minimum temperature began later than the daily mean and maximum temperatures, but the increase rate of the former was relatively greater after 1985. The abrupt increases in precipitation that occurred near 1978 were much clearer than the three temperature variables. Four dominant periodicities (3, 7, 11, and 18–20 yr) of temperature and precipitation were identified, and these variation patterns directly determined the periodic discharge variations in the two rivers. Under climate change impacts, periodic variations in temperature and precipitation at long temporal scales were intensified after the 1980s. Comparatively, climate change more severely impacts the minimum temperature and precipitation than the maximum and mean temperatures in the study area, and the variability of daily precipitation is more complex than the three temperature variables. Overall, the headwater drainage basin of the Yellow River is more susceptible to climate change compared with the other basin. After 2008, the increase rate of temperature (especially the daily mean and minimum temperatures) became greater, and precipitation showed a downward trend in the study areas. These trends are unfavorable for the safety of water resources and for eco-environmental safety in the two basins.
An Algorithm for the Constraining of Radiative Transfer Calculations to CERES-Observed Broadband Top-of-Atmosphere Irradiance
Authors: Rose Fred G. , Rutan David A. , Charlock Thomas , Smith G. Louis , Kato Seiji
Published: February 2013

NASA’s Clouds and the Earth’s Radiant Energy System (CERES) project is responsible for operation and data processing of observations from scanning radiometers on board the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM), Terra, Aqua, and Suomi National Polar-Orbiting Partnership (NPP) satellites. The clouds and radiative swath (CRS) CERES data product contains irradiances computed using a radiative transfer model for nearly all CERES footprints in addition to top-of-atmosphere (TOA) irradiances derived from observed radiances by CERES instruments. This paper describes a method to constrain computed irradiances by CERES-derived TOA irradiances using Lagrangian multipliers. Radiative transfer model inputs include profiles of atmospheric temperature, humidity, aerosols and ozone, surface temperature and albedo, and up to two sets of cloud properties for a CERES footprint. Those inputs are adjusted depending on predefined uncertainties to match computed TOA and CERES-derived TOA irradiance. Because CERES instantaneous irradiances for an individual footprint also include uncertainties, primarily due to the conversion of radiance to irradiance using anisotropic directional models, the degree of the constraint depends on CERES-derived TOA irradiance as well. As a result of adjustment, TOA computed-minus-observed standard deviations are reduced from 8 to 4 W m−2 for longwave irradiance and from 15 to 6 W m−2 for shortwave irradiance. While agreement of computed TOA with CERES-derived irradiances improves, comparisons with surface observations show that model constrainment to the TOA does not reduce computation bias error at the surface. After constrainment, shortwave down at the surface has an increased bias (standard deviation) of 1% (0.5%) and longwave increases by 0.2% (0.1%). Clear-sky changes are negligible.
Salinity Transport in the Florida Straits
Authors: Szuts Zoltan B. , Meinen Chris
Published: February 2013

A submarine cable across the Florida Straits yields a time series of volume and temperature transports using previously determined calibrations, and here a calibration is defined for salinity transport using data not yet compared to the cable. Since 2001, 32 transects were collected with conductivity–temperature–depth (CTDs) sensors and lowered acoustic Doppler current profilers (LADCPs). Calibrations for volume and temperature transports using CTD/LADCP data are consistent with previous studies. A salinity calibration is obtained by regressing salinity transport against volume transport, where salinity transport is calculated relative to the basin-averaged salinity at 26°N (Sref = 35.156 psu). On average, the transect-derived salinity transport is 33.0 Sv psu (1 Sv ≡ 106 m3 s−1), has a standard deviation of 2.8 Sv psu, and has a 90th percentile range of 29.1–37.4 Sv psu. The cable-derived salinity transport has a root-mean-square error of 2.2 Sv psu compared to the CTD/LADCP transects. Inherent spatial fluctuations and their covariability in the Florida Straits are responsible for noise in the calibrations and for slight increases in accuracy from salinity to temperature to volume calibrations. Salinity fluctuations are strongest in middepth waters of intermediate salinity, where velocity is neither particularily fast nor variable. In contrast, temperature is highly stratified and warm near-surface waters coincide with fast and variable velocities. Temperature additionally exhibits seasonality near the surface, whereas no robust seasonality is found for salinity or velocity. Temperature and salinity transports are largely driven by volume transport, which in turn, because of a large average electrical conductivity, is closely related to the conductivity-weighted velocity that generates the cable-measured voltage.
Signal Postprocessing and Reflectivity Calibration of the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement Program 915-MHz Wind Profilers
Authors: Tridon Frédéric , Battaglia Alessandro , Kollias Pavlos , Luke Edward , Williams Christopher R.
Published: February 2013

The Department of Energy Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) Program has recently initiated a new research avenue toward a better characterization of the transition from cloud to precipitation. Dual-wavelength techniques applied to millimeter-wavelength radars and a Rayleigh reference have a great potential for rain-rate retrievals directly from dual-wavelength ratio measurements. In this context, the recent reconfiguration of the ARM 915-MHz wind profilers in a vertically pointing mode makes these instruments the ideal candidate for providing the Rayleigh reflectivity/Doppler velocity reference. Prior to any scientific study, the wind profiler data must be carefully quality checked. This work describes the signal postprocessing steps that are essential for the delivery of high-quality reflectivity and mean Doppler velocity products—that is, the estimation of the noise floor from clear-air echoes, the absolute calibration with a collocated disdrometer, the dealiasing of Doppler velocities, and the merging of the different modes of the wind profiler. The improvement added by the proposed postprocessing is confirmed by comparison with a high-quality S-band profiler deployed at the ARM Southern Great Plains site during the Midlatitude Continental Convective Clouds Experiment. With the addition of a vertically pointing mode and with the postprocessing described in this work in place, besides being a key asset for wind research wind profilers observations may therefore become a centerpiece for rain studies in the years to come.
Ensemble Kalman Filter Assimilation of Simulated HIWRAP Doppler Velocity Data in a Hurricane
Authors: Sippel Jason A. , Braun Scott A. , Zhang Fuqing , Weng Yonghui
Published: February 2013

This study utilizes ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) observing system simulation experiments (OSSEs) to analyze the potential impact of assimilating radial velocity observations of hurricanes from the High-altitude Imaging Wind and Rain Airborne Profiler (HIWRAP). HIWRAP is a new Doppler radar mounted on the NASA Global Hawk unmanned airborne system that flies at roughly 19-km altitude and has the benefit of a 25–30-h flight duration, which is 2–3 times that of conventional aircraft. This research is intended as a proof-of-concept study for future assimilation of real HIWRAP data. The most important result from this research is that HIWRAP data can potentially improve hurricane analyses and prediction. For example, by the end of a 12-h assimilation period, the analysis error is much lower than that in deterministic forecasts. As a result, subsequent forecasts initialized with the EnKF analyses also improve. Furthermore, analyses and forecasts clearly benefit more from a 12-h assimilation period than for shorter periods, which highlights a benefit of the Global Hawk's potentially long on-station times.
Dryline Position Errors in Experimental Convection-Allowing NSSL-WRF Model Forecasts and the Operational NAM
Authors: Coffer Brice E. , Maudlin Lindsay C. , Veals Peter G. , Clark Adam J.
Published: February 2013

This study evaluates 24-h forecasts of dryline position from an experimental 4-km grid-spacing version of the Weather Research and Forecasting Model (WRF) run daily at the National Severe Storms Laboratory (NSSL), as well as the 12-km grid-spacing North America Mesoscale Model (NAM) run operationally by the Environmental Modeling Center of NCEP. For both models, 0000 UTC initializations are examined, and for verification 0000 UTC Rapid Update Cycle (RUC) analyses are used. For the period 1 April–30 June 2007–11, 116 cases containing drylines in all three datasets were identified using a manual procedure that considered specific humidity gradient magnitude, temperature, and 10-m wind. For the 24-h NAM forecasts, no systematic east–west dryline placement errors were found, and the majority of the east–west errors fell within the range ±0.5° longitude. The lack of a systematic bias was generally present across all subgroups of cases categorized according to month, weather pattern, and year. In contrast, a systematic eastward bias was found in 24-h NSSL-WRF forecasts, which was consistent across all subgroups of cases. The eastward biases seemed to be largest for the subgroups that favored “active” drylines (i.e., those associated with a progressive synoptic-scale weather system) as opposed to “quiescent” drylines that tend to be present with weaker tropospheric flow and have eastward movement dominated by vertical mixing processes in the boundary layer.
Socioeconomic and Outdoor Meteorological Determinants of Indoor Temperature and Humidity in New York City Dwellings*
Authors: Tamerius J. D. , Perzanowski M. S. , Acosta L. M. , Jacobson J. S. , Goldstein I. F. , Quinn J. W. , Rundle A. G. , Shaman J.
Published: February 2013

Numerous mechanisms link outdoor weather and climate conditions to human health. It is likely that many health conditions are more directly affected by indoor rather than outdoor conditions. Yet, the relationship between indoor temperature and humidity conditions to outdoor variability, and the heterogeneity of the relationship among different indoor environments are largely unknown. The authors use 5–14-day measures of indoor temperature and relative humidity from 327 dwellings in New York City New York, for the years 2008–11 to investigate the relationship between indoor climate, outdoor meteorological conditions, socioeconomic conditions, and building descriptors. Study households were primarily middle income and located across the boroughs of Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx, and Manhattan. Indoor temperatures are positively associated with outdoor temperature during the warm season and study dwellings in higher socioeconomic status neighborhoods are significantly cooler. During the cool season, outdoor temperatures have little effect on indoor temperatures; however, indoor temperatures can range more than 10°C between dwellings despite similar outdoor temperatures. Apartment buildings tend to be significantly warmer than houses and dwellings on higher floors are also significantly warmer than dwellings on lower floors. Outdoor specific humidity is positively associated with indoor specific and relative humidity, but there is no consistent relationship between outdoor and indoor relative humidity. In New York City, the relationship between indoor and outdoor temperature and humidity conditions varies significantly between dwellings. These results can be used to inform studies of health outcomes for which temperature or humidity is an established factor affecting human health. The results highlight the need for more research on the determinants of indoor climate.
Shortening of an anatomical stem, how short is short enough? An in vitro study of load transfer and primary stability
Authors: Østbyhaug Per Olav , Klaksvik Jomar , Romundstad Pål , Aamodt Arild
Published: February 2013

An anatomical stem should be short enough to avoid distal locking and distal load transfer but long enough to ensure adequate primary stability of the stem. In this in vitro study, the cortical strains in the femur and the primary stability of the stem were measured after insertion of Anatomic Benoist Girard-I anatomical stems with gradually reduced stem length in six human cadaver femurs in order to find the optimal stem length. A shortening of 40–50 mm, corresponding to a stem extending 30–40 mm below the lesser trochanter, did not affect stem stability but nearly normalized the load distribution in the lower metaphysis and upper diaphysis. The large strain shielding observed in the calcar region was not influenced by shortening of the stem.
Women wearing white: Discourses of menstruation and the experience of menarche
Authors: Jackson Theresa E , Falmagne Rachel Joffe
Published: February 2013

This study examines how dominant societal discourses of menstruation are appropriated, rejected, or interpreted as adolescent girls make meaning of their menarche. Thirteen women ages 18–21 participated in flexible in-depth interviews to retrospectively recount their menarcheal experience. A variation of the Reading Guide was used for primary data analysis, which identified four themes highlighting girls’ ambivalence regarding menarche. Participants were conflicted at menarche about their putative status as ‘women’; used imprecise, distancing language when discussing menstruation; engaged in material and discursive practices of concealing menstruation; and referenced a community of menstrual suffering. Further, discourse analysis of participants’ talk suggests their continued discomfort. We argue that girls experience menarche ambivalently in relation to menstrual taboos, body shame and emergent womanhood. Negative discourses of menstruation and women’s bodies converge to set girls on a problematic gendered trajectory at menarche that can be expected to inform meaning making and experiences across the lifespan.
Improving Parental Involvement
Authors: Burke Meghan M.
Published: February 2013

Given that most parents of students with disabilities have difficulty navigating the special education system, advocacy training offers one way to aid parents in securing appropriate educational services for their children with disabilities. Two distinct models of advocacy trainings are as follows: the Special Education Advocacy Training and the Volunteer Advocacy Project. This article notes how parents may need advocates to assert their special education rights and how advocates may be trained in special education law and advocacy. Furthermore, this article discusses the consequences of special education advocacy trainings for the disability field—universities and service providers alike. The conclusion of this article describes the need for additional research about family–school collaboration.