bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New Bioactive Fungal Molecules with High Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Capacity Isolated fromCerrena unicolorIdiophasic Cultures
Authors: Jaszek Magdalena , Osińska-Jaroszuk Monika , Janusz Grzegorz , Matuszewska Anna , Stefaniuk Dawid , Sulej Justyna , Polak Jolanta , Ruminowicz Marta , Grzywnowicz Krzysztof , Jarosz-Wilkołazka Anna
Published: July 2013

Three bioactive fractions, extracellular laccase (ex-LAC), crude endopolysaccharides (c-EPL), and a low molecular subfraction of secondary metabolites (ex-LMS), were isolated from the idiophasic cultures of the white rot fungusCerrena unicolor. For the first time, we determined the antioxidant properties of these samples by chemiluminometric measurement (a) and assessment of the scavenging effect on ABTS (b) and the DPPH reduction rate (c). The highest reducing capability was found for the ex-LMS fraction: 39–90% for (a), 20–90% for (b), and 10–59% for (c) at the concentration of 6.25–800 µg/mL. The scavenging abilities of theC. unicolorc-EPL were between 36 and 70% for (a), 2 and 60% for (b), and 28 and 32% for (c) at the concentration of 6.25–800 µg/mL. A very high prooxidative potential was observed for the ex-LAC probes. The preliminary toxicity tests were done using the Microtox system and revealed the following percentage of the toxic effect againstVibrio fischeri: 85.37% for c-EPL, 50.67% for ex-LAC, and 99.8% for ex-LMS, respectively. The ex-LAC sample showed the antibacterial activity againstEscherichia coli, c-EPL againstStaphylococcus aureus, and ex-LMS against both bacterial strains, respectively, but the stronger inhibitory effect was exerted onS. aureus.
Regional Climate Modeling over South America: A Review
Authors: Solman Silvina A.
Published: July 2013

This review summarizes the progress achieved on regional climate modeling activities over South America since the early efforts at the beginning of the 2000s until now. During the last 10 years, simulations with regional climate models (RCMs) have been performed for several purposes over the region. Early efforts were mainly focused on sensitivity studies to both physical mechanisms and technical aspects of RCMs. The last developments were focused mainly on providing high-resolution information on regional climate change. This paper describes the most outstanding contributions from the isolated efforts to the ongoing coordinated RCM activities in the framework of the CORDEX initiative, which represents a major endeavor to produce ensemble climate change projections at regional scales and allows exploring the associated range of uncertainties. The remaining challenges in modeling South American climate features are also discussed.
A Hybrid Genetic Algorithm to Minimize Total Tardiness for Unrelated Parallel Machine Scheduling with Precedence Constraints
Authors: Liu Chunfeng
Published: July 2013

The paper presents a novel hybrid genetic algorithm (HGA) for a deterministic scheduling problem where multiple jobs with arbitrary precedence constraints are processed on multiple unrelated parallel machines. The objective is to minimize total tardiness, since delays of the jobs may lead to punishment cost or cancellation of orders by the clients in many situations. A priority rule-based heuristic algorithm, which schedules a prior job on a prior machine according to the priority rule at each iteration, is suggested and embedded to the HGA for initial feasible schedules that can be improved in further stages. Computational experiments are conducted to show that the proposed HGA performs well with respect to accuracy and efficiency of solution for small-sized problems and gets better results than the conventional genetic algorithm within the same runtime for large-sized problems.
Preliminary Studies Demonstrating Acetoclastic Methanogenesis in a Rat Colonic Ring Model
Authors: Carter Edward A. , Barr Ronald G.
Published: July 2013

Washed rat colonic rings were incubated in closed flasks under N2at physiologic pH and temperature levels. In the absence of an exogenous substrate, negligible H2but some CH4concentrations were detected in vitro after one hour of incubation, but high concentrations (H2> 100 ppm, CH4> 10 ppm) of both gases were found after 24 hours of culture. Production of H2and CH4by the washed colonic rings was stimulated by lactose addition. Maximum H2production occurred at about pH 7.0, while maximum CH4production occurred between pH 4.0 and 6.0. The increased production of both gases at 24 hours was associated with dramatic increases (104-fold) in anaerobic bacteria colony counts on the colonic rings and in the incubation media, as well as dramatic increases (100-fold) in acetate concentrations in the media, while lactate concentrations first rose and then fell significantly. These results suggest that gas production in colonic ring preparations is subject to quantitative changes in microbiota, pH, and metabolite formation analogous to in vivo conditions. In addition, microbiota firmly attached to colonic tissue appears to utilize colonic tissue to support its growth in the absence of an exogenous substrate.
Certain Results on Ricci Solitons in -Sasakian Manifolds
Authors: Ashoka S. R. , Bagewadi C. S. , Ingalahalli Gurupadavva
Published: July 2013

We study Ricci solitons in -Sasakian manifolds and show that it is a shrinking or expanding soliton and the manifold is Einstein with Killing vector field. Further, we prove that if is conformal Killilng vector field, then the Ricci soliton in 3-dimensional -Sasakian manifolds is shrinking or expanding but cannot be steady.
Development and Evaluation of Insulin Incorporated Nanoparticles for Oral Administration
Authors: Prusty Amiya kumar , Sahu Susanta Kumar
Published: July 2013

The current study was designed to prepare and characterize insulin incorporated nanoparticles by complex coacervation process followed by antidiabetic study of orally administered insulin incorporated nanoparticles in diabetic rats. The nanoparticles were characterized for particle size, loading and entrapment efficiency as well as in vitro release of incorporated insulin. The prepared nanoparticles were found to have an average particle size of 551.67 nm ±45.5. The highest entrapment efficiency and loading capacity values were found to be of 52.48±1.98 and 47.01±1.21, respectively. Oral administration of 10 IU/Kg of insulin loaded nanoparticles to diabetic rats showed a maximum blood glucose change of 53.46±2.19 at 5-hours time period. The results obtained indicate the potential of prepared nanoparticulate system as a carrier for oral delivery of insulin.
Unsteady Non-Newtonian Solver on Unstructured Grid for the Simulation of Blood Flow
Authors: Li Guojie , Chen Bin , Zhou Gaoling
Published: July 2013

Blood is in fact a suspension of different cells with yield stress, shear thinning, and viscoelastic properties, which can be represented by different non-Newtonian models. Taking Casson fluid as an example, an unsteady solver on unstructured grid for non-Newtonian fluid is developed to simulate transient blood flow in complex flow region. In this paper, a steady solver for Newtonian fluid is firstly developed with the discretization of convective flux, diffusion flux, and source term on unstructured grid. For the non-Newtonian characteristics of blood, the Casson fluid is approximated by the Papanastasiou's model and treated as Newtonian fluid with variable viscosity. Then considering the transient property of blood flow, an unsteady non-Newtonian solver based on unstructured grid is developed by introducing the temporal term by first-order upwind difference scheme. Using the proposed solver, the blood flows in carotid bifurcation of hypertensive patients and healthy people are simulated. The result shows that the possibility of the genesis and development of atherosclerosis is increased, because of the increase in incoming flow shock and backflow areas of the hypertensive patients, whose WSS was 20~87.1% lower in outer vascular wall near the bifurcation than that of the normal persons and 3.7~5.5% lower in inner vascular wall downstream the bifurcation.
Chronic Constipation in the Elderly: An Unusual Presentation of Colonic Dysmotility in an Elderly Patient
Authors: Peravali R. , Kranenburg H. , Martin J. E. , Keeling N.
Published: July 2013

Introduction. Chronic constipation is common in the elderly, and often no underlying pathology is found. Primary colonic dysmotility has been described in children but is rare in the elderly.Case report.We present an 82-year-old female with long standing constipation presenting acutely with large bowel obstruction. Laparotomy and Hartman’s procedure was performed, and a grossly distended sigmoid colon was resected. Histology revealed a primary myopathic process.Conclusion.Primary colonic myopathy should be considered in elderly patients presenting with large bowel obstruction and a long preceding history of constipation, particularly when previous endoscopic examinations were normal.
Bovine Papillomavirus Clastogenic Effect Analyzed in Comet Assay
Authors: Araldi R. P. , Melo T. C. , Diniz N. , Mazzuchelli-de-Souza J. , Carvalho R. F. , Beçak W. , Stocco R. C.
Published: July 2013

Bovine papillomavirus (BPV) is an oncogenic virus related to serious livestock diseases. Oncoproteins encoded by BPV are involved in several steps of cellular transformation and have been reported as presenting clastogenic effects in peripheral lymphocytes and primary culture cells. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clastogenic potential of BPV types 1, 2, and 4 by comet assay. Peripheral blood was collected from 37 bovines, 32 infected with different levels of papillomatosis (12 animals have no affection) and five calves, virus free (negative control). The viral identification showed presence of more than one virus type in 59.375% of the infected animals. Comet assay was performed according to alkaline technique. The Kruskal-Wallis test showed statistical difference between the negative control group and infected animals (P=0.0015). The Dunn post hoc test showed difference comparing the infected animals with calves. Mann-WhitneyUtest verified no difference between animals infected with only one viral type and animals presenting more than one viral type. The comet assay is considered an efficient tool for assessment of damage in the host chromatin due to viral action, specifically highlighting viral activity in blood cells.
Palpable Purpura with an Unexpected Outcome
Authors: Friesgaard Christensen Anne , Clemmensen Ole , Junker Peter
Published: July 2013

Scurvy is a potentially lethal condition caused by inadequate vitamin C intake. Hypovitaminosis of vitamin C causes vessel fragility and follicular hyperkeratosis that can lead to palpable purpuric skin lesions. In this case report, we aim to remind readers that scurvy still occurs in Western countries and that the clinical presentation may resemble vasculitis.
Postpolypectomy Electrocoagulation Syndrome: A Mimicker of Colonic Perforation
Authors: Benson Brian C. , Myers Jonathan J. , Laczek Jeffrey T.
Published: July 2013

Postpolypectomy electrocoagulation syndrome is a rare complication of polypectomy with electrocautery and is characterized by a transmural burn of the colon wall. Patients typically present within 12 hours after the procedure with symptoms mimicking colonic perforation. Presented is the case of a 56-year-old man who developed abdominal pain six hours after colonoscopy during which polypectomy was performed using snare cautery. CT imaging of the abdomen revealed circumferential thickening of the wall of the transverse colon without evidence of free air. The patient was treated conservatively as an outpatient and had resolution of his pain over the following four days. Recognition of the diagnosis and understanding of the treatment are important to avoid unnecessary exploratory laparotomy or hospitalization.
Carcinosarcoma of the Bladder: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Atılgan Doğan , Gençten Yusuf
Published: July 2013

Carcinosarcoma of the urinary bladder is a rare neoplasm that is composed of malignant epithelial and mesenchymal components. In these tumors, histogenesis and biological behaviour remain controversial. Approximately 70 cases have been reported in the literature, usually as case reports or a small series. A series of 221 cases using the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) Program database has been reported recently. Optimal treatment is uncertain. Herein, we report a case of sarcomatoid carcinoma of urinary bladder of a farmer aged 84 years old with a year history of hematuria and dysuria. A transurethral resection of the tumor (TUR-T) revealed a carcinosarcoma. The patient underwent radical cystectomy, and there is no tumor recurrence for 15 months after treatments.
The Role of PTPN22 C1858T Gene Polymorphism in Diabetes Mellitus Type 1: First Evaluation in Greek Children and Adolescents
Authors: Giza Styliani , Goulas Antonios , Gbandi Emmanouela , Effraimidou Smaragda , Papadopoulou-Alataki Efimia , Eboriadou Maria , Galli-Tsinopoulou Assimina
Published: July 2013

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is an autoimmune multifactorial disease. Protein tyrosine phosphatase nonreceptor type 22 (PTPN22) gene encodes lymphoid-specific tyrosine phosphatase (Lyp), an inhibitor of T cell activation. PTPN22 C1858T polymorphism was associated with T1DM in populations of Caucasian origin. The aim of this study was the investigation for the first time of the association of PTPN22 C1858T polymorphism with T1DM in Greek population. We studied 130 children and adolescents with T1DM and 135 healthy individuals of Greek origin. The polymorphism was genotyped using polymerase chain reaction with restriction fragment length polymorphism. C1858T and T1858T genotypes as well as 1858T allele were found more frequently in patients (10.8% and 5.8%, resp.) than in healthy individuals (5.9% and 3.0%, resp.) but at non statistically significant level. There was no statistically significant association found with gender, age at diagnosis, severity of onset, history of Hashimoto thyroiditis or family history of T1DM. Increased frequency of 1858T allele in patients than in controls, implying a probable association, agrees with results of similar studies on other populations. The inability to find a statistically significant difference is probably due to the decreased frequency of minor allele in Greek population, indicating the need for a larger sample.
Attitudes towards Lung Cancer Screening in an Australian High-Risk Population
Authors: Flynn Alexandra E. , Peters Matthew J. , Morgan Lucy C.
Published: July 2013

Objectives. To determine whether persons at high risk of lung cancer would participate in lung cancer screening test if available in Australia and to elicit general attitudes towards cancer screening and factors that might affect participation in a screening program. Methods. We developed a 20-item written questionnaire, based on two published telephone interview scripts, addressing attitudes towards cancer screening, perceived risk of lung cancer, and willingness to be screened for lung cancer and to undertake surgery if lung cancer were detected. The questionnaire was given to 102 current and former smokers attending the respiratory clinic and pulmonary rehabilitation programmes. Results. We gained 90 eligible responses (M:F, 69:21). Mean [SD] age was 63 [11] and smoking history was 32 [21] pack years. 95% of subjects would participate in a lung cancer screening test, and 91% of these would consider surgery if lung cancer was detected. 44% of subjects considered that they were at risk of lung cancer. This was lower in ex-smokers than in current smokers. Conclusions. There is high willingness for lung cancer screening and surgical treatment. There is underrecognition of risk among ex-smokers. This misperception could be a barrier to a successful screening or case-finding programme in Australia.
Delayed Presentation of Traumatic Diaphragmatic Rupture with Herniation of the Left Kidney and Bowel Loops
Authors: Dwari Amiya Kumar , Mandal Abhijit , Das Sibes Kumar , Sarkar Sudhansu
Published: July 2013

Rupture of the diaphragm mostly occurs following major trauma. We report a case of delayed presentation of traumatic diaphragmatic hernia on the left side in a 44-year-old male who presented two weeks after a minor blunt trauma. Left kidney and intestinals coils were found to herniate through the diaphragmatic tear. This case demonstrates the importance of considering the diagnosis in all cases of blunt trauma of the trunk. It also illustrates the rare possibility of herniation of kidney through the diaphragmatic tear.
Retropharyngeal Calcific Tendonitis Mimics a Retropharyngeal Abscess
Authors: Pollak Natasha , Wexler Sonya
Published: July 2013

Retropharyngeal calcific tendonitis (RCT) is an uncommon, self-limiting condition that is often omitted in the differential diagnosis of a retropharyngeal fluid collection. This condition mimics a retropharyngeal abscess and should be considered when evaluating a fluid collection in the retropharyngeal space. Although calcific tendonitis at other sites has been well described in the medical literature, it appears that this entity has been underreported in the otolaryngology literature where only a few case reports have been identified. Presumably, the actual incidence is higher than the reported incidence, due to lack of familiarity with this disorder. As an otolaryngologist’s scope of practice includes the managements of retropharyngeal lesions, it is important for the otolaryngologist to recognize the presentation of acute RCT and be familiar with appropriate treatment strategies. Retropharyngeal calcific tendonitis presents with neck pain, limitation of neck range of motion and includes inflammation, calcifications, and a sterile effusion within the longus colli muscle. Treatment is medical with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications. RCT does not require surgical treatment, and an accurate diagnosis can prevent unnecessary attempts at operative drainage. In this study, we discuss two cases of RCT, summarize the salient features in diagnosis, including key radiologic features, discuss treatment options, and review the literature.
Influence of Linking Group Orientation on Mesomorphism of Two Aromatic Ring Mesogens
Authors: Ong L. K. , Ha S. T.
Published: July 2013

A new homologous series of alkyl 4‐{[(4‐chlorophenyl)imino]methyl}benzoates were prepared, and all the members are differentiate by the alkoxy chain length, CnH2n+1O, where n = 2–7, 9, 11, 13, 15. Their phase transition behaviors and mesophase characteristics were studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and optical polarizing microscopy techniques. DSC thermograms show direct isotropization and recrystallization during heating and cooling processes, respectively. The crystal phase changed directly to dark area textures (isotropic phase) without displaying any mesophase. The mesomorphic properties of compounds studied are strongly dependent on the orientation of the ester linkage. Reversed ester linkage has caused depression of mesomorphic property in the compounds studied.
Translational Bioinformatics for Diagnostic and Prognostic Prediction of Prostate Cancer in the Next-Generation Sequencing Era
Authors: Chen Jiajia , Zhang Daqing , Yan Wenying , Yang Dongrong , Shen Bairong
Published: July 2013

The discovery of prostate cancer biomarkers has been boosted by the advent of next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies. Nevertheless, many challenges still exist in exploiting the flood of sequence data and translating them into routine diagnostics and prognosis of prostate cancer. Here we review the recent developments in prostate cancer biomarkers by high throughput sequencing technologies. We highlight some fundamental issues of translational bioinformatics and the potential use of cloud computing in NGS data processing for the improvement of prostate cancer treatment.
Tocilizumab-Induced Acute Liver Injury in Adult Onset Still’s Disease
Authors: Drepper Michael , Rubbia-Brandt Laura , Spahr Laurent
Published: July 2013

Background. Tocilizumab, a monoclonal humanized anti-IL-6 receptor antibody, is used in treatment of refractory adult onset Still’s disease (AOSD). Mild to moderate liver enzyme elevation is a well-known side effect, but severe liver injury has only been reported in 3 cases in the literature.Case. A young female suffering from corticoid and methotrexate refractory AOSD was treated by tocilizumab. After 19 months of consecutive treatment, she developed acute severe liver injury. Liver biopsy showed extensive hepatocellular necrosis with ballooned hepatocytes, highly suggestive of drug-induced liver injury. No other relevant drug exposure beside tocilizumab was recorded. She recovered totally after treatment discontinuation and an initial 3-day course of intravenous N-acetylcysteine with normalization of liver function tests after 6 weeks.Conclusion. Acute severe hepatitis can be associated with tocilizumab as documented in this case. Careful monitoring of liver function tests is warranted during tocilizumab treatment.
Assessing Depression among Older Persons with Arthritis: A Nationwide Health Status Survey
Authors: Nayak Rajesh , Rajpura Jigar
Published: July 2013

Objectives. This study aimed to assess the health status of a nationwide sample of elderly persons having arthritis and determine the prevalence of depressive symptomatology in this population.Methods. WebTV technology was utilized to administer health status and depression surveys to a nationally representative sample of 550 randomly selected older persons. Predetermined cutoff scores on Short Form-36 (SF-36) scale and Center for Epidemiological Scale for Depression (CES-D) were used to identify individuals with depressive mood.Results. Sixteen percent () of the respondents were found to be at risk for depression. Key associations among health domains of SF-36 and CES-D variables were statistically significant and were in the expected direction.Discussion. The risk of depression among older adults who have arthritis is moderate. A significant decline in multiple domains of health of older persons is likely when depression coexists with arthritis. Early screening for depressive symptomatology and prompt treatment should be an essential part of arthritis management in primary care practice.
Cardiovascular Effects of Aldosterone
Authors: Escoubet Brigitte , Couffignal Camille , Laisy Jean-Pierre , Mangin Laurence , Chillon Sylvie , Laouénan Cédric , Serfaty Jean-Michel , Jeunemaitre Xavier , Mentré France , Zennaro Maria-Christina
Published: July 2013

Background—

High plasma aldosterone has deleterious cardiovascular effects that are independent of blood pressure, but the role of the mineralocorticoid receptor remains unclear. Renal pseudohypoaldosteronism type 1 is a rare autosomal-dominant disease caused by
NR3C2
loss-of-function mutations, which is characterized by renal salt loss and compensatory high renin and aldo secretion. We aimed to assess the cardiovascular outcomes in adults carrying NR3C2 mutations.

Methods and Results—

In this case-control study, 39
NR3C2
mutation carriers were compared with sex- and age-paired noncarriers. Patients underwent cardiac and vascular ultrasound, cardiac MRI with gadolinium injection, measurement of pulse wave velocity, extracellular water, 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure, and autonomous nervous system activity. Mutation carriers showed increased aldo and renin plasma levels (4.5- and 1.6-fold, respectively;
P
<0.0001), together with increased salt appetite (1.8-fold;
P
=0.002), with normal extracellular water and blood pressure, and no autonomous nervous system activation. Cardiac and vascular parameters were not significantly different between mutation carriers and noncarriers (no left ventricular remodeling or fibrosis, normal left ventricular systolic function, and aorta stiffness). Tissue Doppler showed better diastolic left ventricular function in mutation carriers (e′,
P
=0.001; E/e′,
P
=0.003). Mutation carriers had significantly more frequent history of slow body weight recovery at birth, symptomatic hypotension, and miscarriage in women.

Conclusions—

Despite life-long increase in plasma aldosterone and renin levels, no adverse cardiovascular outcome occurred in pseudohypoaldosteronism type 1, but rather an improved diastolic left ventricular function. This suggests that the cardiovascular consequences of aldosterone excess require full mineralocorticoid receptor signaling.

Clinical Trial Registration—

http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; unique identifier: NCT00646828.
Phenrica littoralis (Bechyné, 1955) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) a potential candidate for the biological control of alligator weed, Alternanthera philoxeroides (Martius) Grisebach Amaranthaceae): redescription of the adult,first description of immature stages, and biological notes
Authors: CABRERA NORA , SOSA ALEJANDRO J. , JULIEN MIC
Published: July 2013

Flea beetles of alligator weed, Alternanthera philoxeroides (Martius) Grisebach (Amaranthaceae), were collected in Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Brazil. Species in the genera Disonycha Chevrolat, Agasicles Jacoby, Systena Chevrolat and Phenrica Bechyné were frequently found on this weed. Phenrica littoralis (Bechyné) was the most abundant within this genus. The male is described and the holotype female is redescribed adding new diagnostic characters of the mouthparts, hind wings, metendosternite, and male and female genitalia. Larva and pupa are described and illustrated for the first time providing data for future phylogenetic studies in the subtribe Disonychina.
A new species of Proceroplatus Edwards (Diptera: Keroplatidae) in Miocene amber from the Dominican Republic
Authors: PENNEY DAVID , EVENHUIS NEAL L. , GREEN DAVID I.
Published: July 2013

Keroplatid fungus gnats (Diptera: Keroplatidae) were hitherto known from the Caribbean island of Hispaniola from a single named species in Miocene amber from the Dominican Republic. Here we describe the new fossil species Proceroplatus preziosii Evenhuis & Penney based on a mature male specimen, which differs markedly from both fossil and extant taxa in the structure of its gonostyli and U-shaped wing pattern. We also document the first record of extant Keroplatidae, Proceroplatus pictipennis (Williston), from Hispaniola.
The Precis Caribbean Story: Lessons and Legacies
Authors: Taylor Michael A. , Centella Abel , Charlery John , Bezanilla Arnoldo , Campbell Jayaka , Borrajero Israel , Stephenson Tannecia , Nurmohamed Riad
Published: July 2013

By the beginning of the current century, there was heightened recognition that the Caribbean is highly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Yet, there was very little climate change science information for the region and at the scale of the small islands that make up most of the region. To fill the gap, a group of regional scientists representing three institutions and four territories (Barbados, Belize, Cuba, and Jamaica) initiated a project to provide dynamically downscaled climate change information for the Caribbean. The Providing Regional Climates for Impacts Studies (PRECIS)-Caribbean initiative was premised on a shared workload with goals to build regional capacity to provide climate change information for the region from within the region, to provide much needed climate information in the shortest possible time frame, and to create a platform for sharing the information as widely as possible. Ten years later offers the opportunity for retrospection and evaluation, particularly since a phase 2 initiative is being formulated. By both accident and design, the legacies of the PRECIS-Caribbean initiative include i) the positioning of the Caribbean to pose and answer for itself some of the emerging second-generation climate change questions; ii) the emergence of a regional template for capacity building in the sciences through cooperation; iii) an expanded regional capacity to undertake climate science; and iv) a significant body of climate change and climate science knowledge relevant to and at the scale of the Caribbean region.
A Feasibility Study for Probabilistic Convection Initiation Forecasts Based on Explicit Numerical Guidance
Authors: Kain John S. , Coniglio Michael C. , Correia James , Clark Adam J. , Marsh Patrick T. , Ziegler Conrad L. , Lakshmanan Valliappa , Miller Stuart D. , Dembek Scott R. , Weiss Steven J. , Kong Fanyou , Xue Ming , Sobash Ryan A. , Dean Andrew R. , Jirak Israel L. , Melick Christopher J.
Published: July 2013

The 2011 Spring Forecasting Experiment in the NOAA Hazardous Weather Testbed (HWT) featured a significant component on convection initiation (CI). As in previous HWT experiments, the CI study was a collaborative effort between forecasters and researchers, with equal emphasis on experimental forecasting strategies and evaluation of prototype model guidance products. The overarching goal of the CI effort was to identify the primary challenges of the CI forecasting problem and to establish a framework for additional studies and possible routine forecasting of CI. This study confirms that convection-allowing models with grid spacing ~4 km represent many aspects of the formation and development of deep convection clouds explicitly and with predictive utility. Further, it shows that automated algorithms can skillfully identify the CI process during model integration. However, it also reveals that automated detection of individual convection cells, by itself, provides inadequate guidance for the disruptive potential of deep convection activity. Thus, future work on the CI forecasting problem should be couched in terms of convection-event prediction rather than detection and prediction of individual convection cells.
Toward a Standardized Metadata Protocol for Urban Meteorological Networks
Authors: Muller Catherine L. , Chapman Lee , Grimmond C.S.B. , Young Duick T. , Cai Xiao-Ming
Published: July 2013

With the growing number and significance of urban meteorological networks (UMNs) across the world, it is becoming critical to establish a standard metadata protocol. Indeed, a review of existing UMNs indicate large variations in the quality, quantity, and availability of metadata containing technical information (i.e., equipment, communication methods) and network practices (i.e., quality assurance/quality control and data management procedures). Without such metadata, the utility of UMNs is greatly compromised. There is a need to bring together the currently disparate sets of guidelines to ensure informed and well-documented future deployments. This should significantly improve the quality, and therefore the applicability, of the high-resolution data available from such networks. Here, the first metadata protocol for UMNs is proposed, drawing on current recommendations for urban climate stations and identified best practice in existing networks.
Heihe Watershed Allied Telemetry Experimental Research (HiWATER): Scientific Objectives and Experimental Design
Authors: Li Xin , Cheng Guodong , Liu Shaomin , Xiao Qing , Ma Mingguo , Jin Rui , Che Tao , Liu Qinhuo , Wang Weizhen , Qi Yuan , Wen Jianguang , Li Hongyi , Zhu Gaofeng , Guo Jianwen , Ran Youhua , Wang Shuoguo , Zhu Zhongli , Zhou Jian , Hu Xiaoli , Xu Ziwei
Published: July 2013

A major research plan entitled “Integrated research on the ecohydrological process of the Heihe River Basin” was launched by the National Natural Science Foundation of China in 2010. One of the key aims of this research plan is to establish a research platform that integrates observation, data management, and model simulation to foster twenty-first-century watershed science in China. Based on the diverse needs of interdisciplinary studies within this research plan, a program called the Heihe Watershed Allied Telemetry Experimental Research (HiWATER) was implemented. The overall objective of HiWATER is to improve the observability of hydrological and ecological processes, to build a world-class watershed observing system, and to enhance the applicability of remote sensing in integrated ecohydrological studies and water resource management at the basin scale. This paper introduces the background, scientific objectives, and experimental design of HiWATER. The instrumental setting and airborne mission plans are also outlined. The highlights are the use of a flux observing matrix and an eco-hydrological wireless sensor network to capture multiscale heterogeneities and to address complex problems, such as heterogeneity, scaling, uncertainty, and closing water cycle at the watershed scale. HiWATER was formally initialized in May 2012 and will last four years until 2015. Data will be made available to the scientific community via the Environmental and Ecological Science Data Center for West China. International scientists are welcome to participate in the field campaign and use the data in their analyses.
Simple Solutions to Steady-State Cumulus Regimes in the Convective Boundary Layer
Authors: Schalkwijk Jerôme , Jonker Harmen J. J. , Siebesma A. Pier
Published: July 2013

A modeling framework is developed that extends the mixed-layer model to steady-state cumulus convection. The aim is to consider the simplest model that retains the essential behavior of cumulus-capped layers. The presented framework allows for the evaluation of stationary states dependent on external parameters. These states are completely independent of the initial conditions, and therefore represent an asymptote that might help deepen understanding of the dependence of the cloudy boundary layer on external forcings. Formulating separate equations for the lifting condensation level and the mixed-layer height, the dry and wet energetics can be distinguished. Regimes that can support steady-state cumulus clouds and regimes that cannot are identified by comparison of the dry and wet buoyancy effects. The dominant mechanisms that govern the creation and eventual depth of the cloud layer are identified. Model predictions are tested by comparison with a large number of independent large-eddy simulations for varying surface and large-scale conditions and are found to be in good agreement.
Impact of Climate Drift on Twenty-First-Century Projection in a Coupled Atmospheric–Ocean General Circulation Model
Authors: Liang Mao-Chang , Lin Li-Ching , Tung Ka-Kit , Yung Yuk L. , Sun Shan
Published: July 2013

Reducing climate drift in coupled atmosphere–ocean general circulation models (AOGCMs) usually requires 1000–2000 years of spinup, which has not been practical for every modeling group to do. For the purpose of evaluating the impact of climate drift, the authors have performed a multimillennium-long control run of the Goddard Institute for Space Studies model (GISS-EH) AOGCM and produced different twentieth-century historical simulations and subsequent twenty-first-century projections by branching off the control run at various stages of equilibration. The control run for this model is considered at quasi equilibration after a 1200-yr spinup from a cold start. The simulations that branched off different points after 1200 years are robust, in the sense that their ensemble means all produce the same future projection of warming, both in the global mean and in spatial detail. These robust projections differ from the one that was originally submitted to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Fourth Assessment Report (AR4), which branched off a not-yet-equilibrated control run. The authors test various common postprocessing schemes in removing climate drift caused by a not-yet-equilibrated ocean initial state and find them to be ineffective, judging by the fact that they differ from each other and from the robust results that branched off an equilibrated control. The authors' results suggest that robust twenty-first-century projections of the forced response can be achieved by running climate simulations from an equilibrated ocean state, because memory of the different initial ocean state is lost in about 40 years if the forced run is started from a quasi-equilibrated state.
Revisiting an Old Concept: The Gradient Wind*
Authors: Brill Keith F.
Published: July 2013

The gradient wind is defined as a horizontal wind having the same direction as the geostrophic wind but with a magnitude consistent with a balance of three forces: the pressure gradient force, the Coriolis force, and the centrifugal force arising from the curvature of a parcel trajectory. This definition is not sufficient to establish a single way of computing the gradient wind. Different results arise depending upon what is taken to be the parcel trajectory and its curvature. To clarify these distinctions, contour and natural gradient winds are defined and subdivided into steady and nonsteady cases. Contour gradient winds are based only on the geostrophic streamfunction. Natural gradient winds are obtained using the actual wind. Even in cases for which the wind field is available along with the geostrophic streamfunction, it may be useful to obtain the gradient wind for comparison to the existing analyzed or forecast wind or as a force-balanced reference state. It is shown that the nonanomalous (normal) solution in the case of nonsteady natural gradient wind serves as an upper bound for the actual wind speed. Otherwise, supergradient wind speeds are possible, meaning that a contour gradient wind or the steady natural gradient wind used as an approximation for an actual wind may not be capable of representing the full range of actual wind magnitude.
Scaling of GNSS Radio Occultation Impact with Observation Number Using an Ensemble of Data Assimilations
Authors: Harnisch F. , Healy S. B. , Bauer P. , English S. J.
Published: July 2013

An ensemble of data assimilations (EDA) approach is used to estimate how the impact of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) radio occultation (RO) measurements scales as a function of observation number in the ECMWF numerical weather prediction system. The EDA provides an estimate of the theoretical analysis and short-range forecast error statistics, based on the ensemble “spread,” which is the standard deviation of the ensemble members about the ensemble mean. This study is based on computing how the ensemble spread of various parameters changes as a function of the number of simulated GNSS RO observations. The impact from 2000 up to 128 000 globally distributed simulated GNSS RO profiles per day is investigated. It is shown that 2000 simulated GNSS RO measurements have an impact similar to real measurements in the EDA and that the EDA-based impact of real data can be related to the impact in observing system experiments. The dependence of the ensemble statistics on observation error statistics assumed when assimilating the data, rather than the actual observation errors, is emphasized. There is no evidence of “saturation” of forecast impact even with 128 000 GNSS RO profiles per day. However, this result is a well-known consequence of always improving the theoretical analysis and short-range forecast error statistics when adding new observations that are assumed to have uncorrelated observation errors. In general, it is found that 16 000 GNSS RO profiles per day have around half the impact of 128 000 profiles, based on the reduction of ensemble spread values where the GNSS RO measurements have the largest impact.
American writers’ imaginative empathy for the Risorgimento and emigration
Authors: Ceramella Nick
Published: July 2013

This article seeks to arouse the readers’ interest in the literary works inspired by the Italian Risorgimento and its close connection with emigration to the United States. Though this is not a widely known branch of the Italian–American literary canon, it has, at least, two great merits. Firstly, it helps to project a more positive picture of the average Italian immigrant away from the cliché of the ‘dago’. Indeed, the majority of Italian immigrants were honest and hard-working people, who had escaped from absolute poverty, hoping to build a better future in America, where they generously contributed to its economic and social growth. Secondly, it arouses Americans’ sympathy with Italy’s fight for freedom, if for no other reason, because the ideals at stake were certainly comparable to those of pre-Civil War America. (See the short story ‘Domenico's New Year’, in which the protagonist puts his life at risk for American freedom and democracy.)
Exploring the Nanotechnology Alliances of Nanotechnology Firms: The Roles of Network Position and Technological Uncertainty
Authors: Wang Chun-Hsien , Chien Pei-Yu
Published: July 2013

Nanotechnology is now increasing attention to inter-firm collaboration and alliances for developing nanotechnology commercialisation opportunities. This study explores and examines nanotechnology alliance networking behaviour to determine fully what types of factors drive nanotechnology alliance activities. The proposed research frameworks attempt to fill the gap in knowledge regarding emerging nanotechnology alliance behaviour and to explore the alliance decisions driving inter-firm nanotechnology alliances that are grounded in deeper knowledge of nanotechnology alliances. The primary focus of nanotechnology alliance activity for nanotechnology-based firms confirms that nanotechnology alliances are influenced directly by inter-firm R&D ties and by joint interactions among inter-firm R&D ties, network positions and technological uncertainty. Specifically, we propose that a nanotechnology-based firm is highly likely to engage in alliances regarding decision-making activity. Using an original dataset of nanotechnology-based firms in the emerging nanotechnology alliance activity, we found that the joint effect of a position of high network centrality and a high level of technological uncertainty weakens inter-firm nanotechnology alliances.
R&D Policies of Korea and Their Implications for Developing Countries
Authors: Jung Jiwon , Mah Jai S.
Published: July 2013

The current article explains the research and development (R&D) policies of Korea that the Government pursued in the national innovation system to develop the technology level in the process of rapid economic growth. The efforts to build various research institutes, provide tax incentives and establish technology and science zones facilitated technology development in Korea. The article also shows the performances of the R&D policies, such as human resource development, patents and technology trade as consequences of these efforts. Finally, this article draws implications for developing countries from the experience of Korea regarding the role of the Government in promoting innovation and developing technology-intensive industries.
University–Industry Linkages in Thailand: Sources of Weakness in Economic Upgrading
Authors: Doner Richard F. , Intarakumnerd Patarapong , Ritchie Bryan K.
Published: July 2013

Thailand has achieved impressive and consistent GDP growth over the past half century in large part through extensive economic diversification. Despite these gains, there is growing evidence that Thailand suffers from a significant gap between the advanced nature of its export structure and the much more modest technological levels of its own firms and labour force. Weak university–industry linkages (UILs) contribute to this problem, though there were sporadic success cases in some key industrial sectors representing high-tech, mid-tech and resource-based industries. The state of Thai UILs is a reflection of weak downstream demand by indigenous Thai firms, limited commercial focus and capacity within the university system and bureaucratic fragmentation. These problems in turn reflect the country’s broader political economy, including Thai development strategy, weak labour as well as business emphasis for upgrading, political fragmentation and the relatively low level of pressures (foreign exchange, external threats and popular protests) on Thai leaders to promote institutions that favour innovation.
A long journey to effective obesity treatments: is there light at the end of the tunnel?
Authors: Dodson Michael V , Boudina Sihem , Albrecht Elke , Bucci Luke , Culver Melinda Fernyhough , Wei Shengjuan , Bergen Werner G , Amaral Andreia J , Moustaid-Moussa Naima , Poulos Sylvia , Hausman Gary J
Published: July 2013

As the obesity epidemic continues, more Americans are getting fatter, having more weight-related problems such as cardiovascular disease, and are experiencing new metabolic dysfunctions. For over 50 years, the adipose tissue (AT), commonly referred to as fat, has been of interest to academic and clinical scientists, public health officials and individuals interested in body composition and image including much of the average public, athletes, parents, etc. On one hand, efforts to alter body shape, weight and body fat percentage still include bizarre and scientifically unfounded methods. On the other hand, significant new scientific strides have been made in understanding the growth, function and regulation of anatomical and systemic AT. Markers of transition/conversion of precursor cells that mature to form lipid assimilating adipocytes have been identified. Molecular ‘master’ regulators such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma and CCAAT-enhancer-binding proteins were uncovered and regulatory mechanisms behind variables of adiposity defined and refined. Interventions including pharmaceutical compounds, surgical, psychosocial interventions have also been tested. Has all of the preceding research helped alleviate the adverse physiologies of overweight and/or obese people? Does research to date point to new modalities that should be the focus of efforts to rid the world of obesity-related problems in the 21st century? This review provides a general overview of scientific efforts to date and a provocative view of the future for adiposity.
The proteomics and interactomics of human erythrocytes
Authors: Goodman Steven R , Daescu Ovidiu , Kakhniashvili David G , Zivanic Marko
Published: July 2013

In this minireview, we focus on advances in our knowledge of the human erythrocyte proteome and interactome that have occurred since our seminal review on the topic published in 2007. As will be explained, the number of unique proteins has grown from 751 in 2007 to 2289 as of today. We describe how proteomics and interactomics tools have been used to probe critical protein changes in disorders impacting the blood. The primary example used is the work done on sickle cell disease where biomarkers of severity have been identified, protein changes in the erythrocyte membranes identified, pharmacoproteomic impact of hydroxyurea studied and interactomics used to identify erythrocyte protein changes that are predicted to have the greatest impact on protein interaction networks.
Victim Experiences and Perspectives on Police Responses to Verbal Violence in Domestic Settings
Authors: Stewart Catherine Carolyn , Langan Debra , Hannem Stacey
Published: July 2013

This interdisciplinary, qualitative study explores why individuals called the police in noncriminal, verbally aggressive situations and how they perceived police responses. In-depth interviews were conducted with 30 individuals, mostly women. While some reported positive perceptions of the police response, the participants’ accounts underscored the seriousness of verbal violence and revealed that when women seek help from police they often perceive the resulting response as inadequate and/or unfair. This study highlights the importance of recognizing that verbal violence is often part of a “fabric of abuse” that may include criminal behavior and considers implications for police practice.
The Emergence of Hybrid Online Distribution Channels in Travel, Tourism and Hospitality
Authors: Thakran Kanika , Verma Rohit
Published: July 2013

This article takes a comprehensive approach to summarize the four digital eras in the travel and tourism space since 1960s. The four eras discussed can be characterized as GDS (global distribution systems), Internet, SoLoMo, and Hybrid periods. Key components of each era are discussed in this paper with respect to the hospitality industry’s distribution intermediaries. The article concludes by listing some of the important upcoming trends in the online distribution channels for the hospitality industry.