bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characteristics of Medium Density Fiberboards for Furniture Production and Interior Application
Authors: Jakimovska Popovska Violeta , Iliev Borche , Spiroski Ivo
Published: March 2016

BACKGROUND: The paper analyzes the properties of medium density fiberboards (MDF) intended for furniture production and interior application. Because MDF panels are one of the mostly used wood-based panels in furniture production sector in the Republic of Macedonia it is important to know and understand their basic physical and mechanical properties. AIM: For better understanding of MDF panels and their proper end use by the furniture constructors and designers, physical and mechanical properties of MDF panels present in the market are tested.MATERIALS AND METHODS: Commercially produced MDF panels taken from one company from wood-based panel market were tested. Evaluation of the quality of the panels was made on the basis of the obtained results for the physical and mechanical properties of the panels. Properties of MDF were tested according to the national MKS standards and European norms.RESULTS: Tested MDF panels present on our market are characterized by good physical and mechanical properties that meet the requirements of the standards for MDF for use in dry conditions including furniture production and interior applications.CONCLUSIONS: It is recommended to avoid application of these MDF panels in high humidity conditions for a longer exploitation period. For this kind of applications, such as bathroom areas, the furniture constructors and interior designers should consider use of MDF.H type of panel for application in high humidity conditions, which will provide good dimensional stability of the products during whole exploitation period.
L’interdisciplinarité. Un modèle d’accompagnement des jeunes présentant des troubles spécifiques des apprentissages
Authors: Carrer Cendrine , Duboel Nathalie , Le Cornet Yvanne
Published: March 2016

Les pratiques interdisciplinaires englobent l’ensemble des interactions professionnelles visant à répondre aux besoins spécifiques des jeunes accompagnés en inclusion collective en milieu scolaire ordinaire. Les professionnels de la Section d’enseignement et d’éducation spécialisée ( sees ) dédiée aux enfants présentant un trouble spécifique des apprentissages du cival Lestrade se sont regroupés au sein d’ateliers autour de quatre difficultés repérées au travers des Projets individualisés d’accompagnement ( pia ). Ainsi la liaison des technicités et des sensibilités de chacun a permis d’aborder plus naturellement les comorbidités des troubles spécifiques des apprentissages.
La réussite de Tom, mon défi
Authors: Loubère Béatrice
Published: March 2016

Avoir un enfant différent a impliqué tout d’abord pour moi d’accepter ce constat. J’ai mis un certain temps à le faire. Ensuite, la culpabilité me tenaille en permanence et encore plus lorsque Tom ne progresse pas comme je le souhaiterai. Cette lutte pour l’aider me fait penser à la lutte qu’on peut mener contre une maladie grave, avec des hauts et des bas, des périodes de rémission. Tout est si fragile. Ce qui pourrait aider les familles à mon sens, cela serait entre autres que les enseignants reçoivent une formation adaptée afin de mieux pouvoir appréhender les difficultés des élèves qui ne sont pas « ordinaires ». J’ai aussi souvent entendu que Tom avait de la chance d’être autant soutenu. Pour moi, cela a toujours été une évidence mais j’ai au fond de moi de la colère car je me sens bien seule pour mener mon combat. Mon but est de le pousser au maximum de ses possibilités. L’objectif : qu’il trouve sa voie et qu’il réussisse sa vie d’adulte. Mon rêve : que Tom, dans quelques années, puisse revoir les personnes qui n’ont pas cru en lui et qu’il les surprenne en leur racontant l’homme qu’il est devenu. Et à ce moment-là, je pourrai dire que le défi qui était le mien a bien été relevé.
« Colette fait la salade de tomates »
Authors: Furno Isabelle
Published: March 2016

Les enfants qui souffrent de tsa dépensent une énergie considérable à masquer les difficultés qu’ils rencontrent. Une première démarche est d’investir efficacement dans la rééducation, ouvrant au plaisir des apprentissages à réaliser. Beaucoup de difficultés se manifestent dès l’école. Ces enfants se voient parfois plus en difficulté qu’ils ne le seraient si une attitude bienveillante présidait aux décisions pédagogiques et aux rééducations à mettre en œuvre. Ce récit a valeur de témoignage sur une forme adaptée de réponse à la difficulté d’une élève de primaire.
Prise en charge globale des maladies mentales chez les Suku de Congo-Kinshasa
Authors: Azia Dimbu Florentin , Tumbwa Mangwamba Pasmak Valentin
Published: March 2016

Cette étude présente le schéma de prise en charge des malades mentaux par les Suku de Congo-Kinshasa. Il se dégage que ce peuple recourt à son patrimoine culturel pour poser le diagnostic des maladies mentales. Il apparaît aussi que la vision traditionnelle des maladies mentales sur le plan de l’étiologie s’enracine dans les aspects psychosociologiques, magico-religieux et organiques. De plus, les Suku disposent d’une taxonomie spécifique des maladies mentales.
Carbon pooling ou comment gérer les crédits carbone à partir d’une trésorerie centralisée
Authors: Le Saout Erwan
Published: March 2016

L’objet de cet article est de présenter une méthode de gestion innovante des permis d’émission de carbone par l’entreprise. Cette méthode est fondée sur le principe de la centralisation de trésorerie ou cash pooling. Nous démontrons que cette gestion centralisée des quotas d’émission peut constituer une source de liquidité nouvelle pour l’entreprise et un pare-feu supplémentaire devant les tentatives de fraudes qui se sont malheureusement répandues sur les marchés d’émission au cours de ces dernières années.
La méthode d’analyse de l’utilité : une méthode d’évaluation qualitative et contextualisée du ROI de la formation managériale
Authors: Chochard Yves , Davoine Eric
Published: March 2016

L’évaluation du retour sur investissement (ROI) des formations des cadres est particulièrement difficile, alors même que ces formations ont les coûts les plus élevés. En nous basant sur une étude de dix cas de formation dans des organisations suisses, représentant des entretiens avec 158 cadres, nous présentons et discutons l’approche d’évaluation du ROI par la valeur-utilité, approche centrée sur une mesure économique des impacts de la formation sur les compétences. Cette approche paraît particulièrement appropriée à l’évaluation des formations managériales de type comportemental. Elle permet de contextualiser les résultats et d’identifier les variables explicatives du ROI.
استخدام موقع UpToDate الطبي كمصدرًا لدعم القرار الطبي القائم والمبني على الدليل من قبل أعضاء هيئة التدريس بكلية الطب والعلوم الصحية بجامعة السلطان قابوس
Authors: Salem AL-Hinai Abdullah
Published: March 2016

استخدام موقع UpToDate الطبي كمصدرًا لدعم القرار الطبي القائم والمبني على الدليل من قبل أعضاء هيئة التدريس بكلية الطب والعلوم الصحية بجامعة السلطان قابوس

يمثل موقع UpToDate مصدرًا لدعم القرار الطبي القائم المبني على الدليل، حيث يقوم عليه متخصصون، ومن ثم يحظى بثقة الأطباء لاستخدامه كمرجع في اتخاذ قرارات الرعاية الصحية الصائبة. حيث أن هناك أكثر من 5100 طبيب، وكاتب، ومحرر، ومراجع، ممن يتمتعون بشهرة عالمية، ينتهجون عملية تحرير دقيقة، تهدف إلى تجميع أحدث المعلومات الطبية، وإدخالها في شكل توصيات موثوق بها ومبنية على الأدلة، والتي ثبتت جدارتها في تحسين رعاية المرضى وجودتها.
ويعتمد الأطباء على موقع (UpToDate) كمصدر أساسي لاكتساب المعرفة الطبية لهم في مجال الرعاية الطبية، ذلك أنه يُراعَى في المعلومة المتاحة على هذا الموقع أن تكون مبنيةً على الأدلة ومحدثةً دائمًا، وإلى جانب سعة وعمق المحتوى، فإن الموقع يتيح إمكانية دخول المشتركين عبر جوالاتهم، واستعراض الأدوات والرسومات البيانية، والمقالات التكميلية المتعلقة ببيانات المرضى، بين خدمات أخرى كثيرة.
ولأهمية الموقع في المجال الرعاية الطبية فقد ارتأت المكتبة الطبية بجامعة السلطان قابوس بالاشتراك بالموقع وإتاحته لكافة فئات الاطباء والمساعدين بما يخدم توجهاتهم الطبية ويعمل على تحديث خبراتهم الطبية، وتوسيع نتاجات بحوثهم العلمية، بما يحقق جودة الرعاية الطبية.
ولأهمية الموقع العلمية والبحثية وفي اتخاذ القرار الطبي فان الدراسة الحالية تهدف الى التعرف على واقع استخدام موقع UpToDate الطبي من قبل أعضاء هيئة التدريس بكلية الطب والعلوم الصحية بجامعة السلطان قابوس ،من حيث التعرف على مدى إسهام وأهمية الموقع في اتخاذ القرار الطبي، ومعرفة واقع استخدام الخصائص التي يوفرها الموقع.
تقنية مراكز المعلومات :استثمار خفي لقطاع الشركات
Authors: Mahmoud Mekawy Mohamed
Published: March 2016

تقنية مراكز المعلومات :استثمار خفي لقطاع الشركات

لاشك ان المعلومات اليوم تعبتر هي أساس صناعة القرار ، سواء القرار السياسي أو التجاري أو خلافه ، وبالقطع فان الاستثمار الامثل في أي مجال قائم في الاساس ليس فقط على الحصول على المعلومة ولكن قائم على توظيف وتطويع المعلومات الصحيحة والدقيقة ، وبناءا علي ذلك فقد فطن مؤخرا جزء كبير من قطاع الشركات في مصر الي أهمية تقنية المعلومات من حفظ واستدعاء بل وتوظيف المعلومات محل الاهتمام كل في مجاله ، وأفرد لها جزءا من الميزانية لتطوير قطاعات نظم المعلومات باعتبارها عقل ومرجعية وتاريخ الشركات وتوجهت الي مايعرف باقتصاد المعلومات.
والدراسة تقدم نموذجًا لقيمة وهوية المعلومات في إطار مجتمع المعلومات ، ثم تسقط هذه الاطلالة النظرية على النواحي التطبيقية في قطاع الشركات في مصر ومدي الاموال التي يمكن توفيرها من جراء استخدام تقنية المعلومات المستخدمة في إدارة الوثائق والمستندات والملفات.
وفي النهاية : تستخلص الدراسة عدة توصيات عملية ارشادية للشركات في إطار الاستثمار الامثل لكافة مواردها.
قيادة المعلومات الاستراتيجية : تجربتان والشاهد واحد
Authors: Qatr Mahmoud
Published: March 2016

قيادة المعلومات الاستراتيجية : تجربتان والشاهد واحد

تسعى هذه الورقة للإجابة على الأسئلة :
هل يمتلك المهنيون الكفايات المطلوبة والأدوات اللازمة لتمكينهم من إحداث التغيير في المكتبات ومؤسسات المعلومات الخاصة بهم ؟
هل هم قادرون من تحديد المعوقات ومحددات العمل التي تحول دون إحداث التغيير بل وجاهزون في التصدي لها ؟
كيف يمكنهم من مواجهة مقاومة التغيير سواء من قبل الإدارات العليا وأصحاب القرار أو زملاء العمل ؟
وذلك من خلال الإشارة إلى تجربتين شخصيتين للباحث كانت قضية قيادة المعلومات الاستراتيجية فيهما على المحك ، والتجربتين دارتا في النصف الأول من عام 2012 ، الأولى كانت أثناء قيادة قطاع المكتبات بجامعة حلوان وإصرار الإدارة العليا على مدار سنتين على اقتطاع مكتبات الكليات من الكليات وزرعها قسرياً بجسد المكتبة المركزية وكيف تم مواجهة ذلك والنتائج والدروس المستفادة .
والتجربة الثانية كانت أثناء قيادة المكتبة الوطنية (دار الكتب) ومحاولة تمكين منسوبيها من الأدوات والمهارات الكافية لإحداث التغيير المأمول بكافة إداراتها وأقسامها ، وكيف تمت إجهاض تلك المحاولة من قبل الإدارة العليا والوزارة التابعة لها المكتبة الوطنية .
كما تضم الورقة مجموعة من التوصيات الواجب القيام بها للخروج من هذا المأزق (الإداري/ السياسي) الذي يصادف الكثيرين من القيادات المهنية بمرافق المعلومات .. وتخلص الورقة إلى أن "الإرادة المهنية" لن يمكنها إحداث التغيير المنشود دون مساندة من "الإرادات السياسية" ببلادنا العربية.
Effect of the Van Hiele Model in Geometric Concepts Acquisition: The Attitudes towards Geometry and Learning Transfer Effect of the First Three Grades Students in Jordan
Authors: Al-ebous Tahani
Published: March 2016

This study aimed to investigate the Effect of the van Hiele model in Geometric Concepts Acquisition, and the attitudes towards Geometry and learning transfer of the first three grades students in Jordan. Participants of the study consisted of 60 students from the third grade primary school students from the First Directorate, Amman, in the academic year (2015-2016) and they were divided randomly into a control group and an experimental group. To achieve the objectives of the study, the teacher's guide was prepared for the unit of Engineering and Statistics "taken from the text book of Mathematics of the third grade in accordance with the model of the Hill, and the preparation of test engineering concepts which consisted of 17 questions of multiple choice, in addition to the scale of attitudes towards engineering and test learning transfer effect. Data were analyzed using ANCOVA and results were as follows: there are significant differences between the average performance of each of the two groups of the study on the scale of Geometric Concepts acquisition in favor of the experimental group taught by using the van Hiele model. And there are significant differences between the average performance of the two groups on a scale of attitudes towards geometry in favor of the experimental group taught by the van Hiele model. There are significant differences between the average performance of each of the two groups on the learning transfer test in favor of the group taught by the van Hiele model.
The Role of Traditional and Virtual Scaffolding in Developing Speaking Ability of Iranian EFL Learners
Authors: Mirahmadi Seyyed Hassan , Alavi Sayyed Mohammad
Published: March 2016

The present study attempted to investigate the effect of the four scaffolding techniques, namely Hard, Soft (Saye & Brush, 2002), Reciprocal (Holton & Clarke, 2006), and Virtual (Yelland & Masters, 2007), on the speaking ability of the Iranian EFL language learners and their fluency, lexicon, grammar and pronunciation. To this end, the four scaffolding techniques were classified into the two groups of Traditional (Hard, Soft and Reciprocal) and technology-mediated (Virtual). 120 Maritime students at Kharg Azad University (IAU-Kharg) were selected as participants based on convenience sampling. At the onset, an Oxford Placement Test was given to the students to place them in the same proficiency level, Intermediate. 10 students were found as outliers who remained as intact members of the groups throughout the study. Eventually, the 110 homogeneous students were randomly assigned to the four scaffolding groups. A pretest of speaking ability was run to the students prior to the scaffolding treatments lasting for 8 weeks (16 sessions). After the treatments, the students completed a posttest of speaking. Having analyzed the data through SPSS software, it was found that under the influence of the four scaffoldings, not only did the Iranian EFL students outperformed in the posttest of speaking, but they also showed a significant improvement in their fluency, grammar, lexicon, and pronunciation. Thus, the findings of this current study extended earlier understandings of scaffolding in an EFL environment and will contribute to the advancement of future courses in terms of their scaffolding pedagogical aspects.
Physical, Proximate and Anti-nutritional Composition of African yam bean (Sphenostylis stenocarpa) Seeds Varieties
Authors: Ajibola Ghaniyah O. , Olapade Abiodun A.
Published: March 2016

The physical, proximate and anti-nutritional properties of five accessions of African yam bean (AYB) seeds (TSs 57, TSs 61, TSs 93, TSs 94 and TSs 116) obtained from Genetic Resource Centre (GRC) of International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) were studied and compared. This was aimed at unraveling the nutritional importance of this crop to enhance its production and utilisation. The physical properties investigated include seed size, length to diameter ratio, seed weight, percentage of seed coat, bulk density and loose density. Proximate composition and anti-nutritional factors such as saponin, oxalate, phytate, alkaloids, tannin, trypsin inhibitor and hydrogen cyanide of these accessions processed flours were also examined. The results of physical properties indicated significant differences (P<0.05)  among the accessions except accessions TSs 93 and TSs 94 that did not differ in their lengths and diameters and also accessions TSs 61 and TSs 116 did not differ in their thicknesses. Results of proximate analysis revealed that crude fibre, fat and carbohydrate contents of the accessions were not significantly different from one another at (P<0.05) except TSs 94 that differed in its carbohydrate and TSs 116 also differed in its crude fibre from others. Meanwhile, in terms of anti-nutritional factors, there existed no significant difference in saponin contents but there were significant differences in oxalate, phytate, alkaloids, tannin, trypsin inhibitor and hydrogen cyanide among the accessions tested.
In Vitro Starch Hydrolysis and Prediction of Glycemic Index (PGI) in “Amala” and Plantain Based Baked Products
Authors: David Barine Kiin-Kabari , Yorte Giami Sunday
Published: March 2016

Various levels of bambara groundnut protein cocnentrate ranging from 0 to 15% were used in the formulation of plantain paste (Amala) and plantain baked products. ‘Amala’ and cookies were produced from 85% plantain flour and 15% bamabara groundnut protein concentrate, while cakes and bread were produced from 70% wheat flour, 20% plantain flour and 10% bambara groundnut protein concentrate. Starch fractions and in vitro starch hydrolysis of the products were determined. The lowest total starch value was found in plantain flour (51.51%) and highest in cakes (70.62%). There was no significant difference in resistant starch between plantain flour and ‘amala’ (5.22% and 4.99%, respectively). The lowest resistant starch was observed in bread (0.94%), while digestible starch was higher in bread and cakes compared to plantain flour. Higher total starch also resulted in higher digestible starch. The kinetic constant of plantain products showed very low values suggesting generally, higher resistance to enzymatic hydrolysis. The highest hydrolysis index (HI) of 74.85%, and 74.25% were observed in cakes and bread, respectively; which also resulted in higher predicted glycemic index (PGI) of 80.79% (Cakes) and 80.45% (Bread). These values were significantly different from that obtained for ‘amala’ with H1 of 56.40% with a corresponding PGI of 70.67% while cookies recorded HI value of 62.64% and PGI of 74.10%. The lowest HI (53.98%) and PGI (69.35%) was observed in plantain flour. This study showed that the more plantain flour in the product formualtions, the lower the hydrolysis index (HI) and the predicted glycemic index (PGI).
Optimization of Physical and Functional Properties of Sorghum-Bambara Groundnut Extrudates
Authors: Gbenyi David Iordehiin , Nkama Iro , Badau Mamudu Halidu
Published: March 2016

Blends of sorghum and Bambara groundnut flour at 90:10, 80:20 and 70:30 ratios respectively, were extruded at 20%, 22.5% and 25% moisture levels and 120oC, 140oC and 160oC barrel temperatures using a single-screw extruder. Response surface methodology with central composite face-centered (CCF) design was used to model the viscosity, water absorption index (WAI) water solubility index (WSI), sectional expansion index (SEI), bulk density (BD), apparent specific volume (ASV) and mass flow rate of the extrudates. The viscosity, WAI, WSI, SEI, BD, ASV and MFR of extrudates varied from 8.38 to 18.78 Nsm-2, 5.30 to 6.21 g/g water, 10.5 to 21%, 2.55 to 5.1, 0.223 to 0.499 g/cm3, 4.15 to 6.55 cm3, and 1.19 to 2.3 g/s respectively. The R2 values were 0.83, 0.71, 0.55, 0.61, 0.66, 0.77 and 0.61 respectively with a non-significant lack of fit; except for viscosity. Plots of residuals against fitted values showed that residuals were randomly scattered in all cases, thus validating the empirical models for the responses. The optimum amount of Bambara groundnut flour, feed moisture and extrusion temperature were established for viscosity, WAI, SEI, BD, ASV and MFR of the extrudates. Feed moisture had the most effect on extrudates functional and physical properties followed by extrusion temperature.
Antioxidant and Physicochemical Properties of Hibiscus Sabdariffa Extracts from Two Particle Sizes
Authors: Cid-Ortega Sandro , Guerrero-Beltrán José Á.
Published: March 2016

The effect of average particle sizes (APS: 0.45 and 1.01 mm), solvent types (ST: distilled water, 2% citric acid solution, and 50% ethanol), and extraction times (ET: 40, 50, and 60 min) on the physicochemical properties, antioxidant capacity, and half maximal effective concentration (EC50) in calyces of Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) was analyzed. The extracts obtained with distilled water and 2% citric acid solution had an intense red color which purities (C) were 78.5 ± 2.3 and 79.8 ± 2.2, respectively. The alcoholic extracts showed a dark red color (C = 75.9 ± 1.8). The alcoholic (820.2 ± 73.7 mg Trolox equivalents (TE)/100 g dry calyces) and acid extracts (773.34 ± 53.0 mg TE/100 g dry calyces) showed higher antioxidant capacity than the aqueous extracts (673.24 ± 116.0 mg TE/100 g dry calyces). The EC50 value was better for the alcoholic extracts, followed by the 2% citric acid extracts and finally by the aqueous extracts (13.4 ± 1.0, 14.9 ± 1.0, and 17.2 ± 1.2 mg of extract, respectively). According to results, the best antioxidant properties were achieved using an APS of 0.45 mm, 50:50% ethanol:water ratio, and ETs of 30 or 45 min.
Survey of the Relationship between Organizational Silence and Organizational Commitment of Junior Secondary and Senior Teachers of Azna City
Authors: Qazelvand Roqieh , Shahtalebi Badri
Published: March 2016

The present study has been done in descriptive methodology of the correlation sort with the aim of investigating the relationship between organizational silence and commitment of the high school teachers in Junior secondary and senior schools in the city of Azna. The statistical community of this investigation includes all 312 teachers of the mentioned city from which the number of 175 persons has been chosen through Kukran sample formula and according to classified accidental sample proportionate with the capacity of the community. The tools for gathering data were three questionnaires. i.e., organizational silence (Vakula & Buradas, 2005) with 23 questions and organizational commitment of Allen and Mey (1991) with 24 questions whose content and formal fluency was confirmed by several responders and a few statistical communities and their credit was provided as 0.90, 0.92, by Koronbach Alfa coefficient respectively. The analysis of the data has been done in two levels of descriptive and conceptual statistic through Pierson’s correlation coefficient. The findings of the analysis of the investigation questions showed that there is a negative meaningful relationship between the organizational silence and its dimensions with organizational commitment.
Human TUBG2 gene is expressed as two splice variant mRNA and involved in cell growth
Authors: Ohashi Tsubasa , Yamamoto Tadashi , Yamanashi Yuji , Ohsugi Miho
Published: March 2016

In mammals, γ‐tubulin, a key protein in microtubule nucleation, is encoded by two genes, TUBG1 and TUBG2. Human TUBG1 and TUBG2 mRNA are expressed ubiquitously and predominantly in preimplantation embryos and the brain, respectively, but specific detection of γ‐tubulin2 protein expression is difficult due to their high sequence similarity. Here, we describe a protocol for differential detection of two human γ‐tubulins by western blotting. In several cancer cell lines and the brain, expression of γ‐tubulin2 along with γ‐tubulin1 and a novel TUBG2 splice variant are identified. Contribution of ectopically expressed γ‐tubulin2 in cancer growth was determined by depletion of γ‐tubulin2.
Volcano deformation source parameters estimated from InSAR: Sensitivities to uncertainties in seismic tomography
Authors: Masterlark Timothy , Donovan Theodore , Feigl Kurt L. , Haney Matthew , Thurber Clifford H. , Tung Sui
Published: March 2016

The eruption cycle of a volcano is controlled in part by the upward migration of magma. The characteristics of the magma flux produce a deformation signature at the Earth's surface. Inverse analyses use geodetic data to estimate strategic controlling parameters that describe the position and pressurization of a magma chamber at depth. The specific distribution of material properties controls how observed surface deformation translates to source parameter estimates. Seismic tomography models describe the spatial distributions of material properties that are necessary for accurate models of volcano deformation. This study investigates how uncertainties in seismic tomography models propagate into variations in the estimates of volcano deformation source parameters inverted from geodetic data. We conduct finite element model‐based nonlinear inverse analyses of interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) data for Okmok volcano, Alaska, as an example. We then analyze the estimated parameters and their uncertainties to characterize the magma chamber. Analyses are performed separately for models simulating a pressurized chamber embedded in a homogeneous domain as well as for a domain having a heterogeneous distribution of material properties according to seismic tomography. The estimated depth of the source is sensitive to the distribution of material properties. The estimated depths for the homogeneous and heterogeneous domains are 2666 ± 42 and 3527 ± 56 m below mean sea level, respectively (99% confidence). A Monte Carlo analysis indicates that uncertainties of the seismic tomography cannot account for this discrepancy at the 99% confidence level. Accounting for the spatial distribution of elastic properties according to seismic tomography significantly improves the fit of the deformation model predictions and significantly influences estimates for parameters that describe the location of a pressurized magma chamber.
Paired stable isotopologues in precipitation and vapor: A case study of the amount effect within western tropical Pacific storms
Authors: Conroy Jessica L. , Noone David , Cobb Kim M. , Moerman Jessica W. , Konecky Bronwen L.
Published: March 2016

Understanding controls on the stable isotopic composition of precipitation and vapor in the West Pacific Warm Pool is vital for accurate representation of convective processes in models and correct interpretation of isotope‐based paleoclimate proxies, yet a lack of direct observational evidence precludes the utility of these isotopic tracers. Results from a measurement campaign at Manus Island, Papua New Guinea from 28 April to 8 May 2013 demonstrate variability in the stable isotopic composition (δD and δ18O) of precipitation and vapor in individual precipitation events and over a 10 day period. Isotope ratios in water vapor and precipitation progressively increased throughout the period of measurement, coincident with a transition from high to low regional convective activity. Vapor isotope ratios approached equilibrium with seawater during the quiescent period and likely reflected downwind advection of distilled vapor and re‐evaporation of rainfall during the period of regional convection. On a 5 min timescale across individual storms, isotope ratios in precipitation were strongly correlated with isotope ratios in surface vapor. However, individual precipitation isotope ratios were not strongly correlated with surface meteorological data, including precipitation rate, in all storms. Yet across all events, precipitation deuterium excess was negatively correlated with surface temperature, sea level pressure, and cloud base height and positively correlated with precipitation rate and relative humidity. Paired surface precipitation and vapor isotope ratios indicate condensation at boundary layer temperatures. The ratio of these paired values decreased with increasing precipitation rate during some precipitation events, suggesting rain re‐evaporation and precipitation in equilibrium with an isotopically distinct upper level moisture source. Results from the short campaign support the interpretation that isotope ratios in precipitation and vapor in the western tropical Pacific are indicators of regional convective intensity at the timescale of days to weeks. However, a nonstationary relationship between rain rate and stable isotope ratios in precipitation during individual convective events suggests that condensation, rain evaporation, moisture recycling, and regional moisture convergence do not always yield an amount effect relationship on intraevent timescales.
Statistical downscaling of North Atlantic tropical cyclone frequency and the amplified role of the Caribbean low‐level jet in a warmer climate
Authors: Jones Jhordanne J. , Stephenson Tannecia S. , Taylor Michael A. , Campbell Jayaka D.
Published: March 2016

This study assesses the skill of four statistical models in hindcasting North Atlantic annual tropical cyclone (TC) frequency over 1950–2008 with the aim of projecting future activity. Three of the models are motivated by operational statistical forecast schemes and are premised on standard hurricane predictors including sea surface temperatures (SSTs) and near‐surface zonal winds. The fourth model uses an SST gradient index previously proposed for Caribbean seasonal rainfall prediction. The statistical models, created from backward regression, explain 24–48% of the observed variability in 1950–2008 annual TC frequency. The future state of the predictors is extracted from the ECHAM5, HadCM3, MRI CGCM2.3.2a, and MIROC3.2 global climate model (GCM) simulations under the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 3. Models utilizing SST and near‐surface wind predictors suggest significant increases in mean annual frequency by 2–8 TCs by 2070–2090, compared to a single surface wind predictor model, indicating that positive trends in SSTs under global warming have a larger relative influence on projections than changes in the variability of the surface winds. Wind‐only models exhibit declines in TC frequency, while the SST gradient model yields little change relative to the present‐day mean. Backward regression reapplied against the 1990–2008 period, analogous to future warmer oceanic and atmospheric state relative to the earlier years in the record, retains only the Caribbean low‐level jet (CLLJ)‐type predictors, explaining up to 82% of TC frequency variability and suggesting a more dominant role for the CLLJ in a warmer climate. Projections using the new models show either a more conservative increase or a stronger decrease in frequency, consistent with a stronger CLLJ.
Generalization of the lightning electromagnetic equations of Uman, McLain, and Krider based on Jefimenko equations
Authors: Shao Xuan‐Min
Published: March 2016

The fundamental electromagnetic equations used by lightning researchers were introduced in a seminal paper by Uman, McLain, and Krider in 1975. However, these equations were derived for an infinitely thin, one‐dimensional source current, and not for a general three‐dimensional current distribution. In this paper, we introduce a corresponding pair of generalized equations that are determined from a three‐dimensional, time‐dependent current density distribution based on Jefimenko's original electric and magnetic equations. To do this, we derive the Jefimenko electric field equation into a new form that depends only on the time‐dependent current density similar to that of Uman, McLain, and Krider, rather than on both the charge and current densities in its original form. The original Jefimenko magnetic field equation depends only on current, so no further derivation is needed. We show that the equations of Uman, McLain, and Krider can be readily obtained from the generalized equations if a one‐dimensional source current is considered. For the purpose of practical applications, we discuss computational implementation of the new equations and present electric field calculations for a three‐dimensional, conical‐shape discharge.
Transcriptome analysis of copper homeostasis genes reveals coordinated upregulation of SLC31A1,SCO1, and COX11 in colorectal cancer
Authors: Barresi Vincenza , Trovato‐Salinaro Angela , Spampinato Giorgia , Musso Nicolò , Castorina Sergio , Rizzarelli Enrico , Condorelli Daniele Filippo
Published: March 2016

Copper homeostasis and distribution is strictly regulated by a network of transporters and intracellular chaperones encoded by a group of genes collectively known as copper homeostasis genes (CHGs). In this work, analysis of The Cancer Genome Atlas database for somatic point mutations in colorectal cancer revealed that inactivating mutations are absent or extremely rare in CHGs. Using oligonucleotide microarrays, we found a strong increase in mRNA levels of the membrane copper transporter 1 protein [CTR1; encoded by the solute carrier family 31 member 1 gene (SLC31A1 gene)] in our series of colorectal carcinoma samples. CTR1 is the main copper influx transporter and changes in its expression are able to induce modifications of cellular copper accumulation. The increased SLC31A1 mRNA level is accompanied by a parallel increase in transcript levels for copper efflux pump ATP7A, copper metabolism Murr1 domain containing 1 (COMMD1), the cytochrome C oxidase assembly factors [synthesis of cytochrome c oxidase 1 (SCO1) and cytochrome c oxidase copper chaperone 11 (COX11)], the cupric reductase six transmembrane epithelial antigen of the prostate (STEAP3), and the metal‐regulatory transcription factors (MTF1, MTF2) and specificity protein 1 (SP1). The significant correlation between SLC31A1, SCO1, and COX11 mRNA levels suggests that this transcriptional upregulation might be part of a coordinated program of gene regulation. Transcript‐level upregulation of SLC31A1, SCO1, and COX11 was also confirmed by the analysis of different colon carcinoma cell lines (Caco‐2, HT116, HT29) and cancer cell lines of different tissue origin (MCF7, PC3). Finally, exon‐level expression analysis of SLC31A1 reveals differential expression of alternative transcripts in colorectal cancer and normal colonic mucosa.
PCDH19‐related epileptic encephalopathy in a male mosaic for a truncating variant
Authors: Thiffault Isabelle , Farrow Emily , Smith Laurie , Lowry Jennifer , Zellmer Lee , Black Benjamin , Abdelmoity Ahmed , Miller Neil , Soden Sarah , Saunders Carol
Published: March 2016

Variants in the X‐linked gene PCDH19 are associated with early infantile epileptic encephalopathy‐9. This unusual condition spares hemizygous males except for psychiatric and behavioral abnormalities, and for this reason is also known as female limited epilepsy. Some cases are due to de novo PCDH19 variants, but may also be paternally inherited. Our patient is a 6‐year‐old male with epileptic encephalopathy. Exome sequencing revealed apparent heterozygosity in PCDH19 for a novel nonsense variant, c.605C>A (p.Ser202*), inconsistent with expectations for a male. Testing of other tissues revealed a mixture of mutant and normal alleles. These results are consistent with somatic mosaicism for p.Ser202*. This is the second male with somatic mosaicism for PCDH19 deficiency, providing further support for cellular interference as the pathogenic mechanism for this condition, which leads to this unusual mode of inheritance in which females are more severely affected than males. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
James L. German, a pioneer in early human genetic research turned 90
Authors: Passarge Eberhard
Published: March 2016

In the early 1960s, J. German established the non‐synchronous human DNA replication pattern in metaphases of cultured lymphocytes and fibroblasts. This could be used to distinguish several chromosomes of similar morphology. From 1965 on over the next 30 years, he and his coworkers systematically studied Bloom's syndrome in depth, cumulating in the identification in 1995 of the BLM gene as encoding a DNA helicase. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Loss of dorsolateral nigral hyperintensity on 3.0 tesla susceptibility‐weighted imaging in idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder
Authors: De Marzi Roberto , Seppi Klaus , Högl Birgit , Müller Christoph , Scherfler Christoph , Stefani Ambra , Iranzo Alex , Tolosa Eduardo , Santamarìa Joan , Gizewski Elke , Schocke Michael , Skalla Elisabeth , Kremser Christian , Poewe Werner
Published: March 2016

We assessed loss of dorsolateral nigral hyperintensity (DNH) on high‐field susceptibility‐weighted imaging (SWI), a novel magnetic resonance imaging marker for Parkinson's disease (PD), in 15 subjects with idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (iRBD) and compared findings to 42 healthy controls (HCs) and 104 PD patients. We found loss of DNH in at least two thirds of iRBD subjects, which approaches the rate observed in PD and is in contrast to findings in HCs. We propose that absence of DNH on high‐field SWI could identify prodromal degenerative parkinsonism in iRBD. Ann Neurol 2016;79:1026–1030
Pathological α‐synuclein in gastrointestinal tissues from prodromal Parkinson disease patients
Authors: Stokholm Morten Gersel , Danielsen Erik Hvid , Hamilton‐Dutoit Stephen Jacques , Borghammer Per
Published: March 2016

Objective

It has been hypothesized that Lewy pathology initiates in the enteric nervous system years prior to debut of clinical motor symptoms in Parkinson disease patients. This study investigates whether Lewy pathology is present in various gastrointestinal tract tissues from Parkinson disease patients in the prodromal phase.

Methods

We used the Danish National Pathology Registry to identify archived paraffin‐embedded tissue blocks from 57 Parkinson disease patients (98 blocks) and 90 control subjects (98 blocks). We employed 2 different immunohistochemistry techniques visualizing aggregated α‐synuclein and phosphorylated α‐synuclein.

Results

Thirty‐nine Parkinson disease patients contributed tissues obtained in the prodromal disease phase, whereas 18 Parkinson disease patients contributed tissues obtained solely after Parkinson diagnosis. Prodromal tissues were obtained on average 7.0 years prior to diagnosis (range = 20 years to 4 months), and postdiagnosis tissue on average 2.8 years after diagnosis (range = 2 days to 18 years). Phosphorylated α‐synuclein positivity was seen in 22 of 39 (56%) prodromal Parkinson disease subjects and 30 of 67 (45%) prodromal tissue blocks. These fractions were significantly higher compared to control subjects (p = 0.0001 and p = 0.0032, respectively). In contrast, no significant difference was seen in the positivity rate between prodromal Parkinson disease patients and controls when using the aggregated α‐synuclein immunohistochemistry technique.

Interpretation

We detected Lewy pathology in the gastrointestinal tract of patients up to 20 years prior to their Parkinson disease diagnosis. These findings are in accordance with a hypothesized prodromal disease phase spanning 10 to 20 years. Ann Neurol 2016;79:940–949
Exceptional enhancement of ductility and toughness in poly(vinylidene fluoride)/carbon nanotubes composites
Authors: Chen Xuelong , Liang Yen Nan , Yin Ming , Roy Sunanda , Marom Gad , Men Yongfeng , Hu Xiao
Published: March 2016

The reinforcement of mechanical properties of polymeric materials is often important for widening their applications; however, it remains a technical challenge to effectively increase toughness without degrading stiffness and strength of the polymers. In this work, by a facile methodology combining solution mixing and melt blending, poly(vinylidene fluoride)/multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (PVDF/MWCNTs) composite with exceptionally enhanced ductility and toughness are prepared. With only 0.2 wt % CNT loading, the elongation at break has increased from originally 138% to almost 500%, while toughness improved by as much as 386%, without compromising the stiffness and strength. Note that raw CNTs are directly dispersed in the matrix without any surface modification. In order to elucidate this novel enhancement of ductility of PVDF/MWCNTs composites, we carried out detailed analyses based on results from ultra‐small‐angle X‐ray scattering (USAXS), cryo‐fractured surface morphology, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). It is proposed that the enhanced ductility are contributed by a synergistic combination of “void pinning effect” of CNT, as well as the formation of γ phase polymorph as the interphase in the PVDF/CNTs composites. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43610.
Exploring the conformational and binding properties of unphosphorylated/phosphorylated monomeric and trimeric Bcl‐2 through docking and molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Zacarías‐Lara Oscar J. , Correa‐Basurto José , Bello Martiniano
Published: March 2016

B‐cell lymphoma (Bcl‐2) is commonly associated with the progression and preservation of cancer and certain lymphomas; therefore, it is considered as a biological target against cancer. Nevertheless, evidence of all its structural binding sites has been hidden because of the lack of a complete Bcl‐2 model, given the presence of a flexible loop domain (FLD), which is responsible for its complex behavior. FLD region has been implicated in phosphorylation, homotrimerization, and heterodimerization associated with Bcl‐2 antiapoptotic function. In this contribution, homology modeling, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations in the microsecond (µs) time‐scale and docking calculations were combined to explore the conformational complexity of unphosphorylated/phosphorylated monomeric and trimeric Bcl‐2 systems. Conformational ensembles generated through MD simulations allowed for identifying the most populated unphosphorylated/phosphorylated monomeric conformations, which were used as starting models to obtain trimeric complexes through protein–protein docking calculations, also submitted to µs MD simulations. Principal component analysis showed that FLD represents the main contributor to total Bcl‐2 mobility, and is affected by phosphorylation and oligomerization. Subsequently, based on the most representative unphosphorylated/phosphorylated monomeric and trimeric Bcl‐2 conformations, docking studies were initiated to identify the ligand binding site of several known Bcl‐2 inhibitors to explain their influence in homo‐complex formation and phosphorylation. Docking studies showed that the different conformational states experienced by FLD, such as phosphorylation and oligomerization, play an essential role in the ability to make homo and hetero‐complexes. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 105: 393–413, 2016.
Exploring podcasting in heredity and evolution teaching
Authors: Almeida‐Aguiar Cristina , Carvalho Ana Amélia
Published: March 2016

Podcasts are digital files very popular in several and very distinct areas. In higher education, they have been explored in a multitude of ways mainly to support teaching and learning processes. The study here described focuses the integration of podcasts in Heredity and Evolution, a course from the Biology and Geology Degree Program at University of Minho, Portugal. It aimed to introduce podcasts in the teaching/learning context, to empirically study different dimensions of podcasting, and to evaluate students' acceptance and receptiveness to the pedagogical use of this technology. Five informative podcasts and three with feedback were produced and delivered. All the students listened to the audio files and considered the episodes audible and clear, their preference going to episodes of short or moderate length and containing summaries, study guidelines or syllabus contents. Students judged extremely valuable the integration of this technology in learning and showed receptiveness to podcasting in other courses. Curiously, in spite of owning mobile devices, students clearly favored the use of personal computers to listen to the podcasts. This student acceptance and openness to podcasting has been encouraging its pedagogical application in other teaching courses. The episodes produced often maintain the characteristics identified as the best by the students of this study but the pedagogical approach has been moving to a more student‐centered learning situation, with students as podcasts producers. © 2016 by The International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 44(5):429–432, 2016.
Somatic mutation profiles in primary colorectal cancers and matching ovarian metastases: Identification of driver and passenger mutations
Authors: Crobach Stijn , Ruano Dina , van Eijk Ronald , Schrumpf Melanie ,   PALGA group, Fleuren Gertjan , van Wezel Tom , Morreau Hans
Published: March 2016

The mutational profiles of primary colorectal cancers (CRCs) and corresponding ovarian metastases were compared. Using a custom‐made next generation sequencing panel, 115 cancer‐driving genes were analyzed in a cohort of 26 primary CRCs and 30 matching ovarian metastases (four with bilateral metastases). To obtain a complete overview of the mutational profile, low thresholds were used in bioinformatics analysis to prevent low frequency passenger mutations from being filtered out. A subset of variants was validated using Sanger and/or hydrolysis probe assays. The mutational landscape of CRC that metastasized to the ovary was not strikingly different from CRC in consecutive series. When comparing primary CRCs and their matching ovarian metastases, there was considerable overlap in the mutations of early affected genes. A subset of mutations demonstrated less overlap, presumably being passenger mutations. In particular, primary CRCs showed a substantially high number of passenger mutations. We also compared the primary CRCs and matching metastases for stratifying variants of six genes (KRAS, NRAS, BRAF, FBXW7, PTEN and PIK3CA) that select for established (EGFR directed) or future targeted therapies. In a total of 31 variants 12 were not found in either of the two locations. Tumours thus differed in the number of discordant variants between the primary tumours and matching metastases. Half of these discordant variants were definitive class 4/5 pathogenic variants. However, in terms of temporal heterogeneity, no clear relationship was observed between the number of discordant variants and the time interval between primary CRCs and the detection of ovarian metastases. This suggests that dormant metastases may be present from the early days of the primary tumours.
Immunocytochemical utility of claudin‐4 versus those of Ber‐EP4 and MOC‐31 in effusion cytology
Authors: Oda Tomohiro , Ogata Sho , Kawaguchi Saki , Minabe Shinya , Dokyu Misaki , Takahashi Hiromi , Kumazawa Fumihiko , Shimazaki Hideyuki , Takano Masashi , Hase Kazuo , Ozeki Yuichi , Kanoh Soichiro , Nakanishi Kuniaki
Published: March 2016

Background

Recently, claudin‐4 (CL4) immunocytochemistry was reported to be useful for differential diagnosis in effusion cytology. We wondered whether CL4 might be useful for “single‐shot” identification of metastatic carcinoma. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of CL4 in effusion cytology.

Methods

In total, 266 cases (169 metastatic carcinomas, eight malignant mesotheliomas, and 89 reactive mesothelial cells) were selected. Immunocytochemical examinations of cell‐block sections were performed for CL4, Ber‐EP4, and MOC‐31. We used an arbitrary 4‐tiered scale based on both staining intensity and positive‐cell percentage among all target cells, and calculated a staining index score (sum of the above two scores).

Results

In a ROC‐curve analysis, higher area‐under‐curve values were found for CL4 than for Ber‐EP4 or MOC‐31 (0.982, 0.942, and 0.926, respectively).

Conclusions

Since CL4 exhibited similar or superior usefulness to Ber‐EP4 and MOC‐31, it could become the first choice for the above differential diagnosis in effusion cytology. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2016;44:499–504. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.