bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
APTO-253 Is a New Addition to the Repertoire of Drugs that Can Exploit DNA BRCA1/2 Deficiency
Authors: Tsai Cheng-Yu , Sun Si , Zhang Hongying , Local Andrea , Su Yongxuan , Gross Larry A. , Rice William G. , Howell Stephen B.
Published: April 2018

APTO-253 is a small molecule with antiproliferative activity against cell lines derived from a wide range of human malignancies. We sought to determine the mechanisms of action and basis for resistance to APTO-253 so as to identify synthetic lethal interactions that can guide combination studies. The cellular pharmacology of APTO-253 was analyzed in Raji lymphoma cells and a subline selected for resistance (Raji/253R). Using LC/MS/ESI analysis, APTO-253 was found to convert intracellularly to a complex containing one molecule of iron and three molecules of APTO-253 [Fe(253)3]. The intracellular content of Fe(253)3 exceeded that of the native drug by approximately 18-fold, and Fe(253)3 appears to be the most active form. Treatment of cells with APTO-253 caused DNA damage, which led us to ask whether cells deficient in homologous recombination (i.e., loss of BRCA1/2 function) were hypersensitive to this drug. It was found that loss of either BRCA1 or BRCA2 function in multiple isogenic paired cell lines resulted in hypersensitivity to APTO-253 of a magnitude similar to the effects of PARP inhibitors, olaparib. Raji cells selected for 16-fold acquired resistance had 16-fold reduced accumulation of Fe(253)3. RNA-seq analysis revealed that overexpression of the ABCG2 drug efflux pump is a key mechanism of resistance. ABCG2-overexpressed HEK-293 cells were resistant to APTO-253, and inhibition of ABCG2 reversed resistance to APTO-253 in Raji/253R. APTO-253 joins the limited repertoire of drugs that can exploit defects in homologous recombination and is of particular interest because it does not produce myelosuppression. Mol Cancer Ther; 17(6); 1167–76. ©2018 AACR.
Assessment of Corneal Changes Associated with Topical Antiglaucoma Therapy Using in vivo Confocal Microscopy
Authors: Baghdasaryan Elmira , Tepelus Tudor C. , Vickers Laura A. , Huang Ping , Chopra Vikas , Sadda SriniVas R. , Lee Olivia L.
Published: April 2018

Purpose: Ocular surface disease (OSD) is highly prevalent in eyes treated with chronic, topical antiglaucoma (A/G) therapy. The purpose of this study was to utilize in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) to evaluate the corneal morphology, including characteristics of corneal epithelial cells, presence of epithelial dendritic cells (DCs), and characteristics of subbasal nerve plexus, of eyes under topical A/G therapy versus normal eyes. Methods: Central corneal images were prospectively captured from 30 eyes of 16 patients under topical A/G therapy (>6 months) and 20 normal control eyes, using IVCM (HRT 3 RCM, Heidelberg, Germany). Demographic data were collected, as well as information on the types and duration of A/G therapy. In addition, OSD index (OSDI) score, tear film breakup time, Schirmer 1 test results, density of epithelial wing cells (WCs) and basal cells (BCs), subbasal nerve features (density, tortuosity, and reflectivity), and presence of DCs were all assessed and recorded by trained Doheny Image Reading Center graders. Results: IVCM findings of 30 glaucomatous eyes and 20 normal control eyes were analyzed. The mean OSDI score was 8.72 in controls and 32.06 in patients under A/G therapy (p = 0.002). Nerve fiber density, nerve fiber reflectivity, and BC density were all decreased in the A/G group (1,789.07 ± 785.70 μm/frame, 2.79 ± 0.83, 6,457.67 ± 692.55 cells/mm2, respectively) as compared to controls (2,815.981 ± 563.77 μm/frame, 3.52 ± 0.50, 7,854.13 ± 1,073.69 cells/mm2, respectively) (p < 0.05), whereas the decrease in WC density was statistically nonsignificant (p = 0.5). Nerve tortuosity and DC density were both significantly greater in the A/G eyes (3.00 ± 0.57, 71.24 ± 61.74 cells/mm2, respectively) compared to controls (2.10 ± 0.42, 34.08 ± 11.70 cells/mm2, respectively) (p < 0.05). Tear film breakup time and Schirmer 1 test results were significantly lower in the A/G group as compared to controls (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Using IVCM, our study identified significant microstructural alterations in the corneas of eyes treated with topical A/G therapy. In addition, our study also revealed that glaucoma patients treated with topical A/G therapy report significantly higher OSDI scores compared to controls. Thus, IVCM may be a useful tool in providing structural parameters to correlate with the functional OSDI assessments in the evaluation of ocular surface toxicity associated with topical A/G therapy.
Caregiver Burden in Semantic Dementia with Right- and Left-Sided Predominant Cerebral Atrophy and in Behavioral-Variant Frontotemporal Dementia
Authors: Koyama Asuka , Hashimoto Mamoru , Fukuhara Ryuji , Ichimi Naoko , Takasaki Akihiro , Matsushita Masateru , Ishikawa Tomohisa , Tanaka Hibiki , Miyagawa Yusuke , Ikeda Manabu
Published: April 2018

Background: Caregiver burden is a serious concern for family caregivers of dementia patients, but its nature is unclear in patients with semantic dementia (SD). This study aimed to clarify caregiver burden for right- (R > L) and left-sided (L > R) predominant SD versus behavioral-variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD) patients. Methods: Using the Japanese version of the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI) and the Neuropsychiatric Inventory, we examined caregiver burden and behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) in 43 first-visit outpatient/family caregiver dyads (bvFTD, 20 dyads; SD [L > R], 13 dyads; SD [R > L], 10 dyads). Results: We found a significant difference in ZBI score between the 3 diagnostic groups. Post hoc tests revealed a significantly higher ZBI score in the bvFTD than in the SD (L > R) group. The ZBI scores in the SD (L > R) and SD (R > L) groups were not significantly different, although the effect size was large. Caregiver burden was significantly correlated with BPSD scores in all groups and was correlated with activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living decline in the bvFTD and SD (R > L) groups. Conclusion: Caregiver burden was highest in the bvFTD group, comparatively high in the SD (R > L) group, and lowest in the SD (L > R) group. Adequate support and intervention for caregivers should be tailored to differences in caregiver burden between these patient groups.
Interstitial Chromosome 3p13p14 Deletions: An Update and Review
Authors: Hajek Catherine A. , Ji Jianling , Saitta Sulagna C.
Published: April 2018

Deletions of proximal chromosome 3p13p14 are infrequent chromosomal alterations. Variable sizes and breakpoints have been reported in patients with a wide range of phenotypes that are evolving as additional cases are reported. The routine use of high-density chromosomal microarrays (CMA) has allowed the identification of many more cases of this disorder and clinical phenotyping shows evidence for an emerging profile among patients with overlapping deletions of 3p13p14. Here, we review the currently reported cases, their phenotypes and where available, the genomic intervals delineated by CMA. Surprisingly, we found that a significant number of proximal chromosome 3p deletions involve structural rearrangements, especially insertions, that have been identified in balanced parental chromosome complements. This region is historically known as a common human chromosomal fragile site, although an underlying genomic mechanism related to its architecture has not been identified. We conclude that identification of an interstitial 3p deletion in a proband by CMA should prompt consideration of further structural chromosomal evaluation using more traditional cytogenetic techniques. While the variability in breakpoints does not suggest a unifying underlying mechanism for these alterations, identification of the haploinsufficient genes in each patient's deletion interval and their developmental roles can guide genotype-phenotype correlations and impact clinical management.
Radiation-Associated Angiosarcoma of the Breast: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Lyou Yung , Barber Emily , Mehta Rita , Lee Thomas , Goreal Wamda , Parajuli Ritesh
Published: April 2018

In the last couple of decades, breast conservation therapy, which utilizes a combination of surgery, radiotherapy, and endocrine or chemotherapy, has become the standard of care for treating early-stage breast cancer. This practice has been greatly beneficial in the improvement of the patient’s quality of life but has also led to the increased use of radiotherapy and associated soft-tissue sarcomas, with angiosarcoma being the most common malignancy. Radiation-associated angiosarcoma (RAS) of the breast is a rare phenomenon, which has been reported to occur in approximately 0.9 out of 1,000 cases, with a reported onset as late as 23 years following radiotherapy. Here we report 2 cases of RAS that occurred within 6 and 13 years following radiotherapy of their primary breast lesion. We discuss the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges regarding this disease and review the current literature. This case report serves as cautionary lessons on the importance of considering RAS of the breast in the differential diagnosis during evaluation for recurrent breast neoplasms. Ongoing clinical trials using combinations of vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors and chemotherapy may provide future avenues of treatment for this difficult-to-treat disease.
Two-Year Follow-Up Results of Transobturator Tape Procedure with and without Concomitant Vaginal Surgery
Authors: Celik Fatih , Pektas Mine Kanat , Kose Mesut , Arioz Dagistan Tolga , Yesildager Evren , Yilmazer Mehmet
Published: April 2018

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the subjective and objective outcomes of the transobturator tape (TOT) procedure performed to treat stress urinary incontinence and to determine the efficacy and safety of the TOT procedure when used along with vaginal surgery. Methods: This is a prospective review of 24 women who had the TOT procedure done only due to stress incontinence; 22 women who underwent concomitant TOT and pelvic floor repair; and 20 women who received concurrent TOT, transvaginal hysterectomy, and sacrospinous ligament fixation. Results: When compared to the patients who had TOT with pelvic floor repair, the patients who underwent TOT with hysterectomy declared to have more dyspareunia (p = 0.008) and they were found to have significantly higher post-void residual volume (p = 0.014). When compared to the patients who had only TOT, the patients who underwent TOT with hysterectomy claimed to have more pelvic pain (p = 0.012) and significantly higher post-void residual volume (p = 0.020). Conclusion: The TOT procedure results in moderately high objective cure rates, and concurrent application of pelvic floor repair or transvaginal hysterectomy does not affect these rates. The relatively higher incidences for voiding problems and pelvic pain in women who underwent TOT, hysterectomy, and sacropinous fixation simultaneously suggest that the extent of surgery directly correlates with the severity of postoperative complications.
Protective Effect of Znt7 on High Glucose-Induced Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in Renal Tubular Epithelial Cells
Authors: Zhang Xiuli  , Lian Xu , Liang Dan , Zhang Lianzhi , Liu Shengquan  , Yang Lina , Chi Zhi-Hong , Gu Harvest F.
Published: April 2018

Background/Aims: Evidence from our and other groups has demonstrated that zinc transporter 7 in SLC30 family (ZnT7) inhibited epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and apoptosis in rat peritoneal mesothelial cells (RPMCs) under high glucose (HG) concentration. In the present study, we investigated the effect of ZnT7 on EMT of renal tubular epithelial cells (RTECs) in an in vitro model of diabetic nephropathy (DN). Methods: A dual-fluorescent staining protocol was used for detection of ZnT7 in a normal rat kidney tubular epithelial cell line (NRK-52E cells). EMT was induced with HG (30 mM). NRK-52E cells were transfected with plasmids codifying for hZnT7-EGFP and interfering RNA for determination of the effect of ZnT7 over-expression and silencing, respectively. Expression of ZnT7, activation of the MAPK/ERK and TGF-β/Smad pathways were analyzed with by means of Western blot. Results: ZnT7 was localized in the perinuclear region and Golgi apparatus. In HG-induced EMT of NRK-52E cells, ZnT7 was up-regulated. Over-expression of ZnT7 led to inhibition of HG-induced EMT, while knock-down of ZnT7 increased EMT. Furthermore, knock-down of ZnT7 and increased HG-induced EMT was accompanied by activation of the MAPK/ERK and TGF-β/Smad pathways. Conclusion: The present study provides evidence that ZnT7 has a protective effect over EMT of RTECs in DN and suggests that the inhibition of HG-induced EMT may be achieved through the MAPK/ERK and TGF-β/Smad pathways. Thereby, ZnT7 could be a potential target for translation medicine and prevention program in DN.
Alterations in Serum MicroRNA Profile During Hemodialysis - Potential Biological Implications
Authors: Trzybulska Dorota , Eckersten Dag , Giwercman Aleksander , Christensson Anders , Tsatsanis Christos
Published: April 2018

Background/Aims: Hemodialysis implies significant alterations in the profile of serum components. microRNAs (miRNAs) are present in the human serum and are considered to target distant tissues where they can regulate gene expression, thus affecting homeostasis. Whether hemodialysis alters the profile of miRNAs in the serum is not known. Methods: miRNA profiling in serum samples collected before and after hemodialysis was performed using miRNA qPCR arrays. The results were subsequently validated in an independent group of 10 hemodialyzed men. miRWalk database was used to identify mRNAs targeted by the miRNAs the levels of which changed after hemodialysis. The list of mRNAs was analyzed using the DAVID and PANTHER classification systems to identify pathways controlled by these miRNAs. Results: miRNA profiling showed that the levels of the majority of circulating miRNAs were increased at least two-fold (115 out of 179 tested) while the levels of only five miRNAs were found at least two-fold lower after hemodialysis. Validation study confirmed the majority of the array results. Bioinformatics analysis of validated and significantly upregulated miRNAs revealed that gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor, cell cycle and cell pluripotency-related pathways were targeted. Conclusion: Hemodialysis alters serum miRNA expression profile and this alteration may result in disruption of pathways contributing to subfertility and increased risk for cancer development being pathologies associated with hemodialysis.
Effects of Long Non-Coding RNA LINC00963 on Renal Interstitial Fibrosis and Oxidative Stress of Rats with Chronic Renal Failure via the Foxo Signaling Pathway
Authors: Chen Wen , Zhang Lei , Zhou Zhong-Qi , Ren Yue-Qin , Sun Li-Na , Man Yu-Lin , Ma Zhong-Wei , Wang Zhi-Kui
Published: April 2018

Background/Aims: Chronic renal failure (CRF) is usually associated with chronic diseases such as congestive heart failure and diabetes mellitus, the prevalence of which is increased with age. This study is designed to investigate the role of long intergenic non-coding RNA (lincRNA) LINC00963 in renal interstitial fibrosis (RIF) and oxidative stress (OS) of CRF via the forkhead box O (FoxO) signaling pathway. Methods: Microarray data and annotated probe files related to CRF were downloaded by retrieving Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database to screen differentially expressed lncRNA. Multi Experiment Matrix (MEM) website and dual-luciferase reporter gene assay were used to predict and verify the target gene of LINC00963, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis to identify the major signaling pathways involved. A total of 60 Wistar male rats were randomly selected and divided into the sham (n = 10) and model (n = 50) groups. Five rats in the sham group and thirty rats in the model group were sub-categorized into the control, blank, negative control (NC), LINC00963 vector, si-LINC00963, si-FoxO3, and si-LINC00963 + si-FoxO3 groups (n = 5). Reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and western blot analysis were performed to evaluate the expressions of LINC00963, FoxO3a, TGF-β1, FN, GSH-PX, Bax, and Bcl-2. Measurement of changes in OS indexes including BUN, MDA, GSH-Px, SOD, and Na+-K+-ATP were conducted. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to determine the levels of inflammatory factors including TNF-α, IL-6, ICAM-1 and FN. TUNEL staining was performed to evaluate cell apoptosis. Results: LINC00963 was highly expressed in CRF rats and FoxO3 was predicted and then verified as a target gene of LINC00963. FoxO3 gene participated in the FOXO signaling pathway. Compared with the blank and NC groups, there were significantly decreased expressions of LINC00963, TGF-β1, FN, and Bax in the si-LINC00963 group, while increased expressions of GSH-PX, FoxO3a, and Bcl-2. The vitality values of BUN and MDA in the si-LINC00963 group declined, while enzymatic activities of GSH-Px, SOD and Na+-K+-ATP elevated in comparison to the blank and NC groups. The levels of TNF-α, IL-6, ICAM-1 and FN, and cell apoptosis rate in the si-LINC00963 group decreased in comparison to the blank and NC groups. All the results in the si-LINC00963 group were opposite in the LINC00963 vector and si-FoxO3 groups. Conclusion: Taken together, we conclude that down-regulation of LINC00963 suppresses RIF and OS of CRF by activating the FoxO signaling pathway.
Long-Term Risk of Hemorrhagic Stroke in Young Patients With Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Giang Kok Wai , Mandalenakis Zacharias , Dellborg Mikael , Lappas Georgios , Eriksson Peter , Hansson Per-Olof , Rosengren Annika
Published: April 2018

Background and Purpose—

The risk of ischemic stroke is increased in patients with congenital heart disease (CHD); however, data on the risk of hemorrhagic stroke, including intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) and subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), are lacking.

Methods—

The Swedish Patient Register was used to identify all patients who were born with a diagnosis of CHD between 1970 and 1993. Each patient was compared with 10 randomly selected controls from the general population, matched for age, sex, and county. Follow-up data were collected until December 2011 for both cases and controls.

Results—

Of 21 982 patients with CHD, 70 developed ICH and 57 developed SAH up to the age of 42 years. CHD patients had more than an 8× higher risk (incidence rate ratio, 8.23; 95% confidence interval, 6–11.2) of developing ICH and almost an 8× higher risk of developing SAH (incidence rate ratio, 7.64; 95% confidence interval, 5.41–10.7) compared with controls. The absolute risk of ICH and SAH was low, with incidence rates of 1.18 and 0.96 cases per 10 000 person-years, respectively. Patients with severe nonconotruncal defects (incidence rate ratio, 16.5; 95% confidence interval, 5.63–51.2) or coarctation of the aorta (incidence rate ratio, 17.3; 95% confidence interval, 6.63–51.8) had the highest relative risk of developing hemorrhagic stroke, with incidence rates of 3.22 and 2.79 cases per 10 000 person-years, respectively.

Conclusions—

The relative risk of hemorrhagic stroke among children and young adults with CHD was almost 8× higher than that of matched controls from the general population, although the absolute risk was low. The highest risk of ICH and SAH occurred in patients with severe nonconotruncal defects and coarctation of the aorta.
Identifying suitable habitats and current conservation status of a rare and elusive reptile in Iran
Authors: Chefaoui Rosa M. , Hosseinzadeh Mahboubeh Sadat , Mashayekhi Meysam , Safaei-Mahroo Barbod , Kazemi Seyed Mahdi
Published: April 2018

Knowledge gaps regarding species distribution and abundance are great in remote regions with political instability, and they might be even larger concerning elusive and rare species. We predict the potential distribution for Hierophis andreanus, a poorly known endemic snake in the Iranian Plateau, and assess its conservation status in relation to existing protected areas. We used a maximum entropy modeling tool and Mahalanobis distance to produce an ensemble species distribution model. The most suitable habitats where located mainly in mountain ranges and adjacent areas of Iran and Afghanistan. Mean temperature and slope were the most important predictors for our models. Furthermore, just five localities for H. andreanus were inside the Iranian protected areas. A 10 km expansion from existing boundaries of protected areas in all directions would double protected localities to 10, and a 20 km buffer would result in 13 protected localities. Our findings are particularly valuable to select locations to conduct new surveys and produce a more reliable estimate of current population size to improve conservation and management for this reptile in the Irano-Anatolian region.
The Failure to Control and the Failure to Prevent, Repress and Submit: The Structure of Superior Responsibility under Article 28 icc Statute
Authors: Yokohama Kazuya
Published: April 2018

In Article 28 of the statute of the International Criminal Court (icc), there appear to be two kinds of omission, namely, a failure to control on the one hand, and a failure to prevent, repress and submit on the other. However, the relationship between both omissions remains unclear so far. This is a controversial topic not only in the scholarly debate but also in the recent jurisprudence of the icc. The core question is whether both omissions need to be proved separately (twofold-failures approach), or whether only the proof of the latter omission could suffice for the superior to be held responsible (single-failure approach). These two approaches could lead to different conclusions as to several aspects of superior responsibility: the ‘number’ of omissions that must be proved and the requirement of causality, for example. This article addresses the difference between these two approaches and demonstrates which approach should be adopted.
Expanding the Boundaries of Orthodoxy?
Authors: Pietsch Andreas
Published: April 2018

The article argues for a re-assessment of the widespread assumption that Friedrich Breckling should be considered the editor of the 1687/90 German edition of the works of the sixteenth-century “Familist” author Hiel. After discussing the evidence which had seemed to point towards such a role for Breckling, the article draws on unedited material to demonstrate that the Hiel edition should instead be ascribed to Loth Fischer. This sheds new light on the religious and intellectual attitudes of the heterodox Lutheran theologian Breckling. When compared to his contemporary Gottfried Arnold, Breckling not only questioned the contemporary boundaries of orthodoxy, but also re-negotiated them, integrating elements from older heterodox traditions.
The Kabbalistic “Teaching Panel” of Princess Antonia
Authors: Morlok Elke
Published: April 2018

This article explores the complex interweaving of kabbalistic and Christological concepts within the kabbalistic “teaching panel” (Lehrtafel) of Princess Antonia of Württemberg. The essay discusses the artwork in the context of visual representations of the ten sefirot, the divine attributes or vessels in Jewish mysticism. Executed as an altarpiece for the church in Bad Teinach in Southern Germany, the work integrates the sefirot into a pansophic concept that served devotional and educational purposes with a salvific goal. The article argues that, with the Lehrtafel, Antonia and her teachers created a devotional object that could be accessed by both regular Christian laity and experts who possessed deeper knowledge of Kabbalah.
Domesticating Religious “Fanaticism” in Eighteenth-Century Germany
Authors: Grote Simon
Published: April 2018

The decline of “fanaticism” in eighteenth-century Germany, a myth propagated by self-proclaimed proponents of Enlightenment, continues to shape historians’ representations of the ascendancy of “religious” Enlightenment. To discredit this myth and suggest a means of replacing it, this essay departs from the conventional attention to university theology as a history of ideas and proposes adding a book-historical perspective. Its focus is the German Pietist theologian Joachim Lange (1670–1744). Condemned by critics as a “fanatic” by virtue of his alleged intellectual kinship with French Reformed theologian Pierre Poiret (1646–1719), Lange is best known today for his vehement and ultimately ineffectual opposition to Enlightenment’s theological standard-bearers at the University of Halle. But Lange’s kinship with Poiret was only partial, and the stark contrast between the careers of two of Lange’s textbooks reveals that although his theological star was falling by the 1730s, elements of Lange’s ostensibly outmoded theology continued to find an audience into the nineteenth century, through the enormous commercial success of his Latin grammar.
Beyond the Cultural Approach
Authors: Liu Jingzhou
Published: April 2018

Chinese international students are vital to internationalization development in Canadian higher education, providing immediate and significant social and economic benefits to Canadian society. The existing scholarly studies have primarily adopted a cultural approach, with a focus on intercultural adaptation or related cross-cultural perspectives. This study goes beyond the cultural approach and examines how race, gender, and class intersect in producing social inequality among Chinese international students in Canada. Through the narratives of five students attending higher education institutions in British Columbia, the study reveals that Chinese international students have experienced discrimination in relation to developing friendship, integrating to the learning environment, and accessing supports and resources on campus based on the color of skin, their gender, and misperception of their class. The color line divides them into the “dominant white” and “people of color.” Color blindness negates their racial identities and ignores the ways in which these affect their learning experiences. The findings of this research call for an intersectional approach to examine international students and their lived experiences by addressing students’ multiple identities and differences to enrich their lived experience in Canada.
Reconceptualization of “Brain Drain”
Authors: Zong Li , Lu Yixi
Published: April 2018

Traditional approach to the issue of “brain drain” and “brain gain” focuses on outflow and inflow of migration of academics and professionals between countries of origins and destinations. It is suggested that, in the international labor market, the developing countries have experienced the problem of brain drain while the developed countries have benefited from brain gain in the process of globalization and international mobility of talent. From this perspective, “brain drain” or “brain gain” is primarily measured by the number of talented people who have “moved in” or “moved out” of a country, but not the extent to which the “brain” has been utilized. This study redefines the notion of “brain drain” by focusing on the actual utilization of professional talents. Previous research findings show that despite attractive Canadian immigration policy and the increasing number of professional immigrants, Canada as a developed country has the problem of “brain waste” due to its systemic barriers such as the devaluation of foreign credentials and non-recognition of foreign work experience for professional Chinese immigrants. At the same time, China as a developing country has benefited from contributions made by highly educated professionals/students returning to their home country through its attractive and rewarding opportunities for those who have attained knowledge and skills from overseas. China has become a model of “brain gain” for developing countries by implementing a series of open and favorable policies to attract top-notch overseas Chinese and foreign talents to help promote the economic development and global competitiveness of the nation.
Shallow-water brittle stars (Echinodermata: Ophiuroidea) from Araçá Bay (Southeastern Brazil), with spatial distribution considerations
Authors: ALITTO RENATA A. S. , BUENO MARISTELA L. , GUILHERME PABLO D. B. , DI DOMENICO MAIKON , CHRISTENSEN ANA BEARDSLEY , BORGES MICHELA
Published: April 2018

The detailed study of arm ossicles, particularly the lateral arm plates, is providing valuable information in the elucidation of ophiuroid taxonomy. The present study describes in detail 16 species of brittle stars from Araçá Bay, Brazil. This information is used to construct the first interactive electronic key, providing a valuable resource for a broad range of researchers. Brittle stars families were divided into three groups based on their spatial distribution: i) infaunal species of intertidal and shallow subtidal belonging to Amphiuridae and Ophiactidae, ii) epizoic species belonging to Amphiuridae, Ophiactidae, and Ophiotrichidae and, iii) epifaunal species of the subtidal belonging to Ophiodermatidae and Hemieuryalidae. In the global context of recent revisions of ophiuroid taxonomy, the present work provides additional characters for use in future phylogenetic studies.
Progress in Monthly Climate Forecasting with a Physical Model
Authors: Adem Julian , Donn William L.
Published: April 2018

A long-range forecasting technique, based on a physical model that emphasizes thermodynamics, is applied to the prediction of anomalies of temperature and precipitation for the Northern Hemisphere. Monthly forecasts are initialized with the sea surface temperature, 700 mb temperature and surface albedo, including variable snow-ice conditions. Application to the hot spell and drought in the summer of 1980 for the contiguous United States shows very encouraging skill when verified for the standard 100-station NOAA grid.
Verification of Fixed-Width, Credible Interval Temperature Forecasts
Authors: Baker Dennis G.
Published: April 2018

A new scoring scheme for verification of fixed-width, credible interval temperature forecasts, which penalizes forecasts of low probabilities for their uncertainty, has been developed. This scoring scheme encourages the forecaster to maximize the proportion of verifying forecasts and to provide probabilities that reflect his true confidence. Results of the use of this scoring scheme in the University of Michigan Forecast Game indicate that a forecaster should strive first for accuracy of the temperature forecast and second for having well-calibrated associated probabilities.
Attenuation Problems Associated with a 5 cm Radar
Authors: Allen Robert H. , Burgess Donald W. , Donaldson Ralph J.
Published: April 2018

The reflectivity pattern from a 5 cm Doppler radar is compared to that from a colocated 10 cm Doppler radar to determine the relative attenuation of the 5 cm signal. Maximum attenuation occurred on 10 April 1979 during the alignment of two severe thunderstorms on the same radar azimuth. During alignment, the near-range storm caused total attenuation of the 5 cm signal from the far-range storm. Maximum attenuation in the far-range storm was much in excess of 23 dB. was on the order of 30dB. Characteristics of the two storms are presented, along with the rainfall rate (maximum of 6.4 in h−1, of the Maximum attenuation in the back side of the near-range storm was on the order of 30 dB. Characteristics of the two storms are presented, along with the rainfall rate (maximum of 6.4 in h−1) of the near-range storm, a reflectivity contour analysis for each radar, and difference fields showing the attenuation of the 5 cm signal in both storms. Some operational problems associated with a 5 cm radar in an attenuating environment include degradation of peak values and distortion of severe weather indicators, as well as the possibility of the loss of the capability to detect severe storms.
Forecaster Training—A Review and Analysis
Authors: Doswell Charles A. , Lemon Leslie R. , Maddox Robert A.
Published: April 2018

Several key events in the history of modern meteorology are reviewed and analyzed in light of the current state of forecasting. A common thread in much of the material reviewed is the need for greater interaction between research meteorologists and forecasters. Greatly hindering this desirable goal is the inadequate training system for forecast meteorologists. Some possible means for altering the structures within which forecaster training takes place are examined. Responses and commitment to improve the current situation are solicited.
Mesocyclone Passes over NSSL Surface Station
Authors: Kessler Edwin
Published: April 2018

An apparent mesocyclone passed directly over a surface station that was equipped with both digital and strip chart recorders near Criner, Okla. Peak gusts were 18 m s−1 (35 kt); within 3 min the surface wind changed from strong southeasterly to strong westerly. The pressure dropped 5 mb in 52 min and recovered 4 mb in 6 min. There was only a trace of precipitation. The wind system was probably an inertial remnant of circulation formed with a thunderstorm whose peak intensity occurred about three hours before the cyclone was observed.
A Note On Errors and Uncertainties in NCAR Aircraft Pyrgeometer Data from MONEX
Authors: Ellingson Robert G.
Published: April 2018

An analysis of the infrared irradiance data obtained from the upward- and downward-looking pyrgeometers on the NCAR Electra indicates that there are nonsystematic errors in the Monsoon Experiment (MONEX) data archived at the World Data Centers. The errors often exceed 8% of the downward flux and may be eliminated only by reanalyzing the 1 Hz data archived at NCAR. In addition, uncertainties in the measurement of the temperatures of the pyrgeometer surfaces lead to uncertainties in the corrected data, which may be important to particular applications.
The Aircraft Dropwindsonde System in the Global Weather Experiment
Authors: Julian Paul R.
Published: April 2018

A major component of the Tropical Observing System deployed during the Global Weather Experiment was the Aircraft Dropwindsonde System. The emphasis in this article is upon the processing of the data gathered by this system and upon factors that influence the quality of the data. The wind-finding algorithm is presented together with a description of the interactive raw data editing procedures. Some examples of drops illustrating various points are included.
Have Precipitation Forecasts Improved?
Authors: Ramage C. S.
Published: April 2018

Twelve years (1966–78) of precipitation forecasts made at National Weather Service forecast offices have been evaluated with a view to determining accuracy trends. Relative precipitation frequency, which proved to be negatively correlated to forecast accuracy, accounted for generally more than 80% of the variance. Winter forecasts were better than summer forecasts, and accuracy differed insignificantly among the eastern, southern, central, and western regions. After the contribution of relative precipitation frequency was removed, accuracy improvement, amounting to about 1% in seven years, could be detected only in the eastern and central region winter forecasts.
Forecast Terminology: Composition and Interpretation of Public Weather Forecasts2,3
Authors: Murphy Allan H. , Brown Barbara G.
Published: April 2018

Worded forecasts, which generally consist of both verbal and numerical expressions, play an important role in the communication of weather information to the general public. However, relatively few studies of the composition and interpretation of such forecasts have been conducted. Moreover, the studies that have been undertaken to date indicate that many expressions currently used in public forecasts are subject to wide ranges of interpretation (and to misinterpretation) and that the ability of individuals to recall the content of worded forecasts is quite limited. This paper focuses on forecast terminology and the understanding of such terminology in the context of short-range public weather forecasts.

The results of previous studies of forecast terminology (and related issues) are summarized with respect to six basic aspects or facets of worded forecasts. These facets include: 1) events (the values of the meteorological variables): 2) terminology (the words used to describe the events); 3) words versus numbers (the use of verbal and/or numerical expressions); 4) uncertainty (the mode of expression of uncertainty); 5) amount of information (the number of items of information); and 6) content and format (the selection of items of information and their placement). In addition, some related topics are treated briefly, including the impact of verification systems, the role of computer-worded forecasts, the implications of new modes of communication, and the use of weather forecasts.

Some conclusions and inferences that can be drawn from this review of previous work are discussed briefly, and a set of recommendations are presented regarding steps that should be taken to raise the level of understanding and enhance the usefulness of worded forecasts. These recommendations are organized under four headings: 1) studies of public understanding, interpretation, and use; 2) management practices; 3) forecaster training and education; and 4) public education.
The NCAR Research Aviation Facility Fleet Workshop 18–19 February 1982, Boulder, Colo.
Authors: Hildebrand Peter H. , McCarthy John
Published: April 2018

A workshop was held at the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) during February of 1982 to consider the scientific needs for research aircraft in the next decade and the impacts of these needs upon the fleet of aircraft that the Research Aviation Facility (RAF) supports for the atmospheric sciences research community. The workshop was attended by a group of atmospheric scientists who represented the major research interests supported by RAF. The attendees discussed scientific priorities for research in the next 10 years, the types of new instrumentation expected within the next decade, and the operational requirements and aircraft fleet that would be required to serve these scientific goals.
The Time between a Field Experiment and its Published Results
Authors: LeMone Margaret A.
Published: April 2018

A survey of the Journal of the Atmospheric Sciences, the Journal of Applied Meteorology, and the Monthly Weather Review shows that the number of publications per year resulting from GATE (GARP Atlantic Tropical Experiment) peaked in 1980, six years after the experiment's field phase.
The International Satellite Cloud Climatology Project (ISCCP): The First Project of the World Climate Research Programme
Authors: Schiffer R. A. , Rossow W. B.
Published: April 2018

The International Satellite Cloud Climatology Project (ISCCP) has been approved as the first project of the World Climate Research Programme (WCRP) and will begin its operational phase in July 1983. Its basic objective is to collect and analyze satellite radiance data to infer the global distribution of cloud radiative properties in order to improve the modeling of cloud effects on climate. ISCCP has two components, operational and research. The operational component takes advantage of the global coverage provided by the current and planned international array of geostationary and polar-orbiting meteorological satellites during the 1980s to produce a five-year global satellite radiance and cloud data set. The main and most important characteristic of these data will be their globally uniform coverage of various indices of cloud cover. The research component of ISCCP will coordinate studies to validate the climatology, to improve cloud analysis algorithms, to improve modeling of cloud effects in climate models, and to investigate the role of clouds in the atmosphere's radiation budget and hydrologic cycle. Validation will involve comparative measurements at a number of test areas selected as representative of major (or difficult) cloud types and meteorological conditions. Complimentary efforts within the framework of WCRP will promote the use of the resulting ISCCP data sets in climate research.
Recent Progress in Atmospheric Radiation1
Authors: Liou Kuo-Nan , Curran Robert J.
Published: April 2018

This report contains summaries and highlights of the papers presented at the Fifth Conference on Atmospheric Radiation. The scope and content of these papers represent recent applied research and scientific progress in atmospheric radiation and related fields. Papers spanning the subjects of satellite remote sensing, interactions of radiation and general circulation, effects of clouds and aerosols on climate, radiation budget studies from satellites, some aspects of radiative transfer and radiation measurements, and solar energy applications were presented.
Summary Report of the Workshop on the Interactions of Climate and Energy
Authors: Knox J. B. , Moses H. , MacCracken M. C.
Published: April 2018

The joint Industry/DOE Workshop on the Interactions of Climate and Energy was designed to bring the providers of climate information and services together with users and representatives of the oil, gas, coal, and electric utility sectors of the U.S. energy industry. Primary discussion topics included current uses of climate data, the perceived impacts of climatic anomalies on the energy sector, ways to improve the uses of climate data, and recommendations for future research by the climate community. This opportunity for such interaction generated a universal agreement among the participants that more frequent exchanges between the providers and users of climate information be planned and that better communication between the providers and users of climate data and services be established.

The workshop proceedings, which is being published by the Department of Energy, presents studies on the application of existing data to the diagnosis of the climatic component in energy supply and demand and the short-term prediction of regional scale energy requirements. Staff members of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) National Climate Data Center (NCDC) and Climate Analysis Center (CAC) review the currently available climate data and services. Four panel reports identify and enumerate the impacts of climate on each of the segments of the energy industry and offer recommendations for improvements, further research, and, in some cases, concepts for practical demonstrations of immediate potential value to the pertinent energy sector.

The panel findings and the presentations of the invited speakers contain several common themes: the need for improved data formats, the significant potential benefits of increased lead time for the seasonal climate forecast, and the necessity for improved accuracy in the forecasts of monthly and seasonal means and extremes of temperature and precipitation. Workshop participants fully recognized the difficulty of making “real” progress on some of these commonly stated objectives; however, they also recognized that the benefits of striving to achieve these goals may, indeed, be sufficiently great to justify the quest for progress through focused research efforts.
Automatic Monitoring of Aviation Terminal Forecasts
Authors: Vercelli David J.
Published: April 2018

One of the goals of the Automation of Field Operations and Services (AFOS) was to implement a computer program to automatically monitor aviation terminal forecasts at National Weather Service (NWS) forecast offices. Such a program has now been developed. The program can be initiated either automatically at predefined times or by the forecaster at any time. Once initiated, the program compares the information in the latest terminal forecast and surface airway observation at each designated terminal to a set of amendment and alert criteria. It then notifies the forecaster via an audio or visual alarm if any terminal forecast needs amending, or may need amending in the near future, due to changing weather conditions.

The program successfully underwent extensive operational field tests at four National Weather Service forecast offices during 1983. Analysis of the test results showed that, overall, the program performed very well and was found to be useful by the forecasters. In early 1984, the program was issued to each of the National Weather Service regional headquarters for use by the individual field offices. In response to evaluations provided by the forecasters during the field tests, an improved program was developed and is being tested at several forecast offices.
Status of US Planning for WOCE
Authors: Nowlin Worth D.
Published: April 2018

The status of the United States planning activities for the World Ocean Circulation Experiment (WOCE) for 1988 is presented at length in this article. The following six topics are emphasized: 1) Structure and general planning activities; 2) Summary of projected 1988 meetings; 3) Numerical modeling; 4) Data management; 5) Technology development; and 6) Observation and analysis components. Part 6 is divided into eight subsections that include: a) Satellite measurements; b) WOCE Hydrographic Program (WHP); c) Global Sea-Level Program; d) WOCE velocity measurements; e) Core Project 1 surface-layer studies; f) Global atmospheric-ocean exchanges; g) Core Project 3 studies; and h) analysis and interpretation projects.
Basic Meteorological Observations for Schools: Temperature
Authors: Snow John T. , Harley Shawn B.
Published: April 2018

This article addresses the measurement of temperature using easily fabricated and/or economical instruments. It describes techniques for measuring temperature with simple instrumentation, comments on our experiences in implementing the techniques, and provides a list appropriate references. The intent is to provide members of the Society with a ready reference to be used to respond to inquiries from earth and physical science teachers at the junior and senior high school level. The material should aid members who are interested in pursuing the educational initiatives described in Weather Education (Royal Meteorological Society, 1984) and in the AMS Guide to Establishing School and Public Educational Activities (American Meteorological Society, 1985). To assist members in advising teachers interested in including meteorology in science curricula, we will also include a few suggestions for student or class projects.

Good references concerning meteorological observations and measurements in schools are the books by Trowbridge (1973) and Couchman et al. (1977), and the pamphlets by Geer (1975), Pedgley (1980) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (1979). The review articles by Mazzarella (1985) and Brock (1985) contain much useful information, as do the handbooks by the Meteorological Office (1981) and United States Department of Agriculture (1976).