bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decitabine and Vorinostat Cooperate To Sensitize Colon Carcinoma Cells to Fas Ligand-Induced Apoptosis In Vitro and Tumor Suppression In Vivo
Authors: Yang Dafeng , Torres Christina M. , Bardhan Kankana , Zimmerman Mary , McGaha Tracy L. , Liu Kebin
Published: March 2012

The death receptor Fas and its physiological ligand (FasL) regulate apoptosis of cancerous cells, thereby functioning as a critical component of the host cancer immunosurveillance system. To evade Fas-mediated apoptosis, cancer cells often downregulate Fas to acquire an apoptosis-resistant phenotype, which is a hallmark of metastatic human colorectal cancer. Therefore, targeting Fas resistance is of critical importance in Fas-based cancer therapy and immunotherapy. In this study, we demonstrated that epigenetic inhibitors decitabine and vorinostat cooperate to upregulate Fas expression in metastatic human colon carcinoma cells. Decitabine also upregulates BNIP3 and Bik expression, whereas vorinostat decreased Bcl-xL expression. Altered expression of Fas, BNIP3, Bik, and Bcl-xL resulted in effective sensitization of the metastatic human colon carcinoma cells to FasL-induced apoptosis. Using an experimental metastasis mouse model, we further demonstrated that decitabine and vorinostat cooperate to suppress colon carcinoma metastasis. Analysis of tumor-bearing lung tissues revealed that a large portion of tumor-infiltrating CD8+ T cells are FasL+, and decitabine and vorinostat-mediated tumor-suppression efficacy was significantly decreased in Fasgld mice compared with wild-type mice, suggesting a critical role for FasL in decitabine and vorinostat-mediated tumor suppression in vivo. Consistent with their function in apoptosis sensitization, decitabine and vorinostat significantly increased the efficacy of CTL adoptive transfer immunotherapy in an experimental metastasis mouse model. Thus, our data suggest that combined modalities of chemotherapy to sensitize the tumor cell to Fas-mediated apoptosis and CTL immunotherapy is an effective approach for the suppression of colon cancer metastasis.
Heme Oxygenase-1 Promotes the Persistence ofLeishmania chagasiInfection
Authors: Luz Nívea F. , Andrade Bruno B. , Feijó Daniel F. , Araújo-Santos Théo , Carvalho Graziele Q. , Andrade Daniela , Abánades Daniel R. , Melo Enaldo V. , Silva Angela M. , Brodskyn Cláudia I. , Barral-Netto Manoel , Barral Aldina , Soares Rodrigo P. , Almeida Roque P. , Bozza Marcelo T. , Borges Valéria M.
Published: March 2012

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) remains a major public health problem worldwide. This disease is highly associated with chronic inflammation and a lack of the cellular immune responses against Leishmania. It is important to identify major factors driving the successful establishment of the Leishmania infection to develop better tools for the disease control. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is a key enzyme triggered by cellular stress, and its role in VL has not been investigated. In this study, we evaluated the role of HO-1 in the infection by Leishmania infantum chagasi, the causative agent of VL cases in Brazil. We found that L. chagasi infection or lipophosphoglycan isolated from promastigotes triggered HO-1 production by murine macrophages. Interestingly, cobalt protoporphyrin IX, an HO-1 inductor, increased the parasite burden in both mouse and human-derived macrophages. Upon L. chagasi infection, macrophages from Hmox1 knockout mice presented significantly lower parasite loads when compared with those from wild-type mice. Furthermore, upregulation of HO-1 by cobalt protoporphyrin IX diminished the production of TNF-α and reactive oxygen species by infected murine macrophages and increased Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase expression in human monocytes. Finally, patients with VL presented higher systemic concentrations of HO-1 than healthy individuals, and this increase of HO-1 was reduced after antileishmanial treatment, suggesting that HO-1 is associated with disease susceptibility. Our data argue that HO-1 has a critical role in the L. chagasi infection and is strongly associated with the inflammatory imbalance during VL. Manipulation of HO-1 pathways during VL could serve as an adjunctive therapeutic approach.
HLA-B7–Restricted EBV-Specific CD8+ T Cells Are Dysregulated in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Jilek Samantha , Schluep Myriam , Harari Alexandre , Canales Mathieu , Lysandropoulos Andreas , Zekeridou Anastasia , Pantaleo Giuseppe , Du Pasquier Renaud A.
Published: March 2012

It was hypothesized that the EBV-specific CD8+ T cell response may be dysregulated in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, possibly leading to a suboptimal control of this virus. To examine the CD8+ T cell response in greater detail, we analyzed the HLA-A2–, HLA-B7–, and HLA-B8–restricted EBV- and CMV-specific CD8+ T cell responses in a high number of MS patients and control subjects using tetramers. Content in cytolytic granules, as well as cytotoxic activity, of EBV- and CMV-specific CD8+ T cells was assessed. We found that MS patients had a lower or a higher prevalence of HLA-A2 and HLA-B7, respectively. Using HLA class I tetramers in HLA-B7+ MS patients, there was a higher prevalence of MS patients with HLA-B*0702/EBVRPP-specific CD8+ T cells ex vivo. However, the magnitude of the HLA-B*0702/EBVRPP-specific and HLA-B*0702/CMVTPR-specific CD8+ T cell response (i.e., the percentage of tetramer+ CD8+ T cells in a study subject harboring CD8+ T cells specific for the given epitope) was lower in MS patients. No differences were found using other tetramers. After stimulation with the HLA-B*0702/EBVRPP peptide, the production of IL-2, perforin, and granzyme B and the cytotoxicity of HLA-B*0702/EBVRPP-specific CD8+ T cells were decreased. Altogether, our findings suggest that the HLA-B*0702–restricted viral (in particular the EBV one)-specific CD8+ T cell response is dysregulated in MS patients. This observation is particularly interesting knowing that the HLA-B7 allele is more frequently expressed in MS patients and considering that EBV is associated with MS.
Different Adaptations of IgG Effector Function in Human and Nonhuman Primates and Implications for Therapeutic Antibody Treatment
Authors: Warncke Max , Calzascia Thomas , Coulot Michele , Balke Nicole , Touil Ratiba , Kolbinger Frank , Heusser Christoph
Published: March 2012

Safety of human therapeutic Abs is generally assessed in nonhuman primates. Whereas IgG1 shows identical FcγR interaction and effector function profile in both species, fundamental differences in the IgG2 and IgG4 Ab subclasses were found between the two species. Granulocytes, the main effector cells against IgG2- and IgG4-opsonized bacteria and parasites, do not express FcγRIIIb, but show higher levels of FcγRII in cynomolgus monkey. In humans, IgG2 and IgG4 adapted a silent Fc region with weak binding to FcγR and effector functions, whereas, in contrast, cynomolgus monkey IgG2 and IgG4 display strong effector function as well as differences in IgG4 Fab arm exchange. To balance this shift toward activation, the cynomolgus inhibitory FcγRIIb shows strongly increased affinity for IgG2. In view of these findings, in vitro and in vivo results for human IgG2 and IgG4 obtained in the cynomolgus monkey have to be cautiously interpreted, whereas effector function-related effects of human IgG1 Abs are expected to be predictable for humans.
Hemiplegic Peripheral Neuropathy Accompanied with Multiple Cranial Nerve Palsy
Authors: Okuma Hirohisa , Nagano Reiko , Takagi Shigeharu
Published: March 2012

A 32-year-old man experienced double vision around January, 2010, followed by weakness of his left upper and lower extremities. Articulation disorders and loss of hearing in his left ear developed, and he was admitted to our hospital on February 14, 2010. Physical examination was normal, and neurological examination showed clear consciousness with no impairment of cognitive function, but with articulation disorders. Olfactory sensation was reduced. Left ptosis and left gaze palsy, complete left facial palsy, perceptive deafness of the left ear, and muscle weakness of the left trapezius muscle were observed. Paresis in the left upper and lower extremities was graded 4/5 through manual muscle testing. Sensory system evaluation revealed complete left-side palsy, including the face. Deep tendon reflexes were slightly diminished equally on both sides; no pathologic reflex was seen. No abnormality of the brain parenchyma, cerebral nerves or cervicothoracolumbar region was found on brain magnetic resonance imaging. On electroencephalogram, alpha waves in the main frequency band of 8 to 9 Hz were recorded, indicating normal findings. Brain single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) scan showed reduced blood flow in the right inner frontal lobe and both occipital lobes. Nerve biopsy (left sural nerve) showed reduction of nerve density by 30%, with demyelination. The patient also showed manifestations of multiple cranial nerve disorder, i.e., of the trigeminal nerve, glossopharyngeal nerve, vagus nerve, and hypoglossal nerve. Whole-body examination was negative. Finally, based on ischemic brain SPECT images, spinal fluid findings and nerve biopsy results, peripheral neuropathy accompanied with multiple cranial nerve palsy was diagnosed.
Primary Renal Synovial Sarcoma
Authors: Bakhshi Girish D. , Khan Arshad S. , Shaikh Aftab S. , Khan Mohammad Ashraf A. , Khan Mohammad Adil A. , Jamadar Nilofar M.
Published: March 2012

Primary Renal Sarcoma is rare tumor comprising only 1% of all renal tumours. Synovial sarcomas are generally deep-seated tumors arising in the proximity of large joints of adolescents and young adults and account for 5-10% of all soft tissue tumours. Primary synovial sarcoma of kidney is rare and has poor prognosis. It can only be diagnosed by immunohistochemistry. It should be considered as a differential in sarcomatoid and spindle cell tumours. We present a case of 33-year-old female, who underwent left sided radical nephrectomy for renal tumour. Histopathology and genetic analysis diagnosed it to be primary renal synovial sarcoma. Patient underwent radiation therapy and 2 years follow up is uneventful. A brief case report with review of literature is presented.
In vitro anti-tick properties of the essential oil of Tagetes minuta L. (Asteraceae) on Hyalomma rufipes (Acari: Ixodidae)
Authors: Nchu Felix , Magano Solomon R. , Eloff Jacobus N.
Published: March 2012

In this study we examined the anti-tick properties of the essential oil of Tagetes minuta L. (Asteraceae: Asterales) against Hyalomma rufipes ticks. We obtained the essential oil of T. minuta by hydro-distillation of a combination of fresh flowers, leaves and soft stems, and analysed these by using gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-linked mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The oil had a high percentage of monoterpenes and the major compounds identified were cis-ocimene (28.5%), beta-ocimene (16.83%) and 3-methyl-2-(2-methyl-2-butenyl)-furan (11.94%). Hyalomma rufipes adults displayed a significant (P < 0.05) dose repellent response to the essential oil of T. minuta. Probit analysis indicated a repellent EC50 of T. minuta essential oil for male ticks to be 0.072 mL/mL (CI 0.053 mL/mL to 0.086 mL/mL) and 0.070 mL/mL (CI 0.052 mL/mL to 0.084 mL/mL) for female ticks. There were no significant differences in repellent responses between male and female ticks. The oil also significantly (P < 0.05) delayed moulting of 60% of H. rufipes engorged nymphs. These results suggest that T. minuta may be a potential source of anti-tick agents.
Coincidence and Calculation of some Strict $s$-Numbers
Authors: Edmunds David E. , Lang Jan
Published: March 2012

The paper considers the so-called strict

s

-numbers, which form an important subclass of the family of all

s

-numbers. For operators acting between Hilbert spaces the various

s

-numbers are known to coincide: here we give examples of linear maps

T

and non-Hilbert spaces

X, Y

such that all strict

s

-numbers of

T : X \to Y

coincide. The maps considered are either simple integral operators acting in Lebesgue spaces or Sobolev embeddings; in these cases the exact value of the strict

s

-numbers is determined.
Characterization of Besov Spaces on Nested Fractals by Piecewise Harmonic Functions
Authors: Kabanava Maryia
Published: March 2012

In the present paper we characterize the Besov spaces

B^s_{pq} (\Gamma, \mu)

on nested fractals in terms of the coefficients of functions with respect to the piecewise harmonic basis.
On Monotonicity of Nonoscillation Properties of Dynamic Equations in Time Scales
Authors: Braverman Elena , Karpuz Bașak
Published: March 2012

For equations on time scales, we consider the following problem: when will nonoscillation on time scale

\mathbb T

imply nonoscillation of the same equation on any time scale

\tilde {\mathbb T}

including

\mathbb T

as a subset? The main result of the paper is the following. If nonnegative coefficients

A_k(t)

are nonincreasing and

\alpha_k(t) ≤ t

are nondecreasing in

t \in \mathbb R

, then nonoscillation of the equation

x^{\Delta} (t) +\sum^m_{k=1} A_k(t)x(\alpha_k(t)) = 0 \ \ \ \rm{for} \ t \in [t_0,\infty)_{\mathbb T}

yields nonoscillation of the same equation on any time scale

\tilde {\mathbb T} \supset T

.
Strong Solutions of Doubly Nonlinear Parabolic Equations
Authors: Matas Aleš , Merker Jochen
Published: March 2012

The aim of this article is to discuss strong solutions of doubly nonlinear parabolic equations

\frac{\partial Bu}{\partial t} + Au = f,

where

A : X → X^*

and

B : Y → Y^*

are operators satisfying standard assumptions on boundedness, coercivity and monotonicity. Six different situations are identified which allow to prove the existence of a solution

u ∈ L^∞(0,T;X ∩ Y)

to an initial value

u_0 ∈ X ∩ Y

, but only in some of these situations the equation is valid in a stronger space than

(X ∩ Y)^*

.
Atmospheric chemistry and physics in the atmosphere of a developed megacity (London): an overview of the REPARTEE experiment and its conclusions
Authors: Harrison R. M. , Dall'Osto M. , Beddows D. C. S. , Thorpe A. J. , Bloss W. J. , Allan J. D. , Coe H. , Dorsey J. R. , Gallagher M. , Martin C. , Whitehead J. , Williams P. I. , Jones R. L. , Langridge J. M. , Benton A. K. , Ball S. M. , Langford B. , Hewitt C. N. , Davison B. , Martin D. , Petersson K. F. , Henshaw S. J. , White I. R. , Shallcross D. E. , Barlow J. F. , Dunbar T. , Davies F. , Nemitz E. , Phillips G. J. , Helfter C. , Di Marco C. F. , Smith S.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. The REgents PARk and Tower Environmental Experiment (REPARTEE) comprised two campaigns in London in October 2006 and October/November 2007. The experiment design involved measurements at a heavily trafficked roadside site, two urban background sites and an elevated site at 160–190 m above ground on the BT Tower, supplemented in the second campaign by Doppler lidar measurements of atmospheric vertical structure. A wide range of measurements of airborne particle physical metrics and chemical composition were made as well as measurements of a considerable range of gas phase species and the fluxes of both particulate and gas phase substances. Significant findings include (a) demonstration of the evaporation of traffic-generated nanoparticles during both horizontal and vertical atmospheric transport; (b) generation of a large base of information on the fluxes of nanoparticles, accumulation mode particles and specific chemical components of the aerosol and a range of gas phase species, as well as the elucidation of key processes and comparison with emissions inventories; (c) quantification of vertical gradients in selected aerosol and trace gas species which has demonstrated the important role of regional transport in influencing concentrations of sulphate, nitrate and secondary organic compounds within the atmosphere of London; (d) generation of new data on the atmospheric structure and turbulence above London, including the estimation of mixed layer depths; (e) provision of new data on trace gas dispersion in the urban atmosphere through the release of purposeful tracers; (f) the determination of spatial differences in aerosol particle size distributions and their interpretation in terms of sources and physico-chemical transformations; (g) studies of the nocturnal oxidation of nitrogen oxides and of the diurnal behaviour of nitrate aerosol in the urban atmosphere, and (h) new information on the chemical composition and source apportionment of particulate matter size fractions in the atmosphere of London derived both from bulk chemical analysis and aerosol mass spectrometry with two instrument types.
Boundary layer nucleation as a source of new CCN in savannah environment
Authors: Laakso L. , Merikanto J. , Vakkari, V. , Laakso H. , Kulmala M. , Molefe M. , Kgabi, N. , Mabaso D. , Carslaw K. S. , Spracklen D. V. , Kerminen, V.-M.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. The South African savannah region is complex environment of air pollution and natural emissions influenced by a strong seasonal cycle in biomass burning and strong precipitation. However, the scarcity of long-term observations means that our knowledge of controlling aerosol processes in this environment is very poor. Here we use a new dataset of 18 months of aerosol observations to understand the factors that control aerosol properties, and in particular cloud condensation nuclei. We find that biomass burning produces a strong source of primary CCN-sized particles during the dry winter season. However, measured CCN-sized particle concentrations remain high during the wet summer season despite the lack of burning and high wet removal rates. We show that during the wet season, a substantial fraction of CCN-sized particles originate from boundary layer new particle formation, whereas primary sources dominate during the dry winter season. The large contribution of boundary layer nucleation to CCN concentrations during the wet season is found to be due to high particle formation and growth rates and low pre-existing particle concentration in the beginning of particle formation. Based on the estimated seasonal cycle of condensable sulphuric acid and organic vapours, higher growth rates during the wet season are attributed to vapours of biogenic origin. Global model results for this region have the same seasonal cycle in nuclei growth rates but the opposite cycle in particle formation rates, and both rates are much lower than observed. In contrast, the same model tends to capture the seasonal cycle in particle concentrations at many other global sites where nucleation is an important process. These results point to deficiencies in our understanding of biogenic emissions and the factors controlling nucleation and growth in such dynamic environments.
210Pb-226Ra chronology reveals rapid growth rate of Madrepora oculata and Lophelia pertusa on world's largest cold-water coral reef
Authors: Sabatier P. , Reyss J.-L. , Hall-Spencer J. M. , Colin C. , Frank N. , Tisnérat-Laborde N. , Bordier L. , Douville E.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. Here we show the use of the 210Pb-226Ra excess method to determine the growth rate of two corals from the world's largest known cold-water coral reef, Røst Reef, north of the Arctic circle off Norway. Colonies of each of the two species that build the reef, Lophelia pertusa and Madrepora oculata, were collected alive at 350 m depth using a submersible. Pb and Ra isotopes were measured along the major growth axis of both specimens using low level alpha and gamma spectrometry and trace element compositions were studied. 210Pb and 226Ra differ in the way they are incorporated into coral skeletons. Hence, to assess growth rates, we considered the exponential decrease of initially incorporated 210Pb, as well as the increase in 210Pb from the decay of 226Ra and contamination with 210Pb associated with Mn-Fe coatings that we were unable to remove completely from the oldest parts of the skeletons. 226Ra activity was similar in both coral species, so, assuming constant uptake of 210Pb through time, we used the 210Pb-226Ra chronology to calculate growth rates. The 45.5 cm long branch of M. oculata was 31 yr with an average linear growth rate of 14.4 ± 1.1 mm yr−1 (2.6 polyps per year). Despite cleaning, a correction for Mn-Fe oxide contamination was required for the oldest part of the colony; this correction corroborated our radiocarbon date of 40 yr and a mean growth rate of 2 polyps yr−1. This rate is similar to the one obtained in aquarium experiments under optimal growth conditions. For the 80 cm-long L. pertusa colony, metal-oxide contamination remained in both the middle and basal part of the coral skeleton despite cleaning, inhibiting similar age and growth rate estimates. The youngest part of the colony was free of metal oxides and this 15 cm section had an estimated a growth rate of 8 mm yr−1, with high uncertainty (~1 polyp every two to three years). We are less certain of this 210Pb growth rate estimate which is within the lowermost ranges of previous growth rate estimates. We show that 210Pb-226Ra dating can be successfully applied to determine the age and growth rate of framework-forming cold-water corals if Mn-Fe oxide deposits can be removed. Where metal oxides can be removed, large M. oculata and L. pertusa skeletons provide archives for studies of intermediate water masses with an up to annual time resolution and spanning over many decades.
The relation between seismicity and water level changes in the Koyna–Warna region, India
Authors: Pavan Kumar J. , Ramana D. V. , Chadha R. K. , Singh C. , Shekar M.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. The analysis of the cross-correlation between the seismicity and the daily water level changes in both the Koyna and Warna (India) reservoirs is studied. The time lag between both datasets is calculated and is applied to estimate the hydraulic diffusivity. The range of the hydraulic diffusivity estimated between 0.1 m2 s−1 and 10 m2 s−1.
Relation between the celestial tide-generating stress and the temperature variations of the Abruzzo M = 6.3 Earthquake in April 2009
Authors: Ma W. Y. , Wang H. , Li F. S. , Ma W. M.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. The temperature variations caused by additive tectonic stress has been studied to explain its relationship with the seismic fault sliding of the Abruzzo M = 6.3 Earthquake in April 2009. According to the periodic changes of the additive tectonic stress caused by the celestial tide-generating force, the temperature variations before and after the earthquake have been analyzed based on the temperature data from National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP). The figures of temperature variations clearly show that the abnormal increasing of the temperature has resulted from seismic fault sliding. Based on this method, it is possible to forewarn short-impending earthquakes.
Applicability of the Decision Matrix of North Eastern Atlantic, Mediterranean and connected seas Tsunami Warning System to the Italian tsunamis
Authors: Tinti S. , Graziani L. , Brizuela B. , Maramai A. , Gallazzi S.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. After the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami catastrophe, UNESCO through the IOC (Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission) sponsored the establishment of Intergovernmental Coordination Groups (ICG) with the aim to devise and implement Tsunami Warning Systems (TWSs) in all the oceans exposed to tsunamis, in addition to the one already in operation in the Pacific (PTWS). In this context, since 2005, efforts have begun for the establishment of TWSs in the Indian Ocean (IOTWS), in the Caribbean area (CARIBE EWS) and in the North Eastern Atlantic, the Mediterranean and Connected Seas (NEAMTWS). In this paper, we focus on a specific tool that was first introduced in the PTWS routine operations, i.e., the Decision Matrix (DM). This is an easy-to-use table establishing a link between the main parameters of an earthquake and the possible ensuing tsunami in order to make quick decision on the type of alert bulletins that a Tsunami Warning Center launches to its recipients. In the process of implementation of a regional TWS for the NEAM area, two distinct DMs were recently proposed by the ICG/NEAMTWS, one for the Atlantic and the other for the entire Mediterranean area. This work applies the Mediterranean NEAMTWS DM to the earthquakes recorded in Italy and compares the action predicted by the DM vs. the action that should be appropriate in view of the observed tsunami characteristics with the aim to establish how good the performance of the Italian TWS will be when it uses the DM for future events. To this purpose, we make use of the parametric catalogue of the Italian earthquakes (CPTI04) compiled in 2004 and the most recent compilation of the Italian tsunami, based on the Italian Tsunami Catalogue of 2004 and the subsequent revisions. In order to better compare the TWS actions, we have identified four different kinds of action coding them from 0 to 3 according to the tsunami severity and have further considered three different distance ranges where these actions apply, that is local, regional and basin-wide, that refer to the distance of the message recipients from the tsunami source. The result of our analysis is that the actions prescribed by the DM are adequate only in 45%–55% of the cases, overestimations are about 37% and underestimations are the rest. As a whole, the predictive ability of the DM is not satisfactory, which implies that recipients have the difficult task in managing bulletins carrying a great deal of uncertainty and on the other hand also suggests that strategies to improve the DM or to go beyond the DM need to be found.
Towards an integrated forecasting system for pelagic fisheries
Authors: Christensen A. , Butenschön M. , Gürkan Z. , Allen I. J.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. First results of a coupled modeling and forecasting system for the pelagic fisheries are being presented. The system consists currently of three mathematically fundamentally different model subsystems: POLCOMS-ERSEM providing the physical-biogeochemical environment implemented in the domain of the North-West European shelf and the SPAM model which describes sandeel stocks in the North Sea. The third component, the SLAM model, connects POLCOMS-ERSEM and SPAM by computing the physical-biological interaction. Our major experience by the coupling model subsystems is that well-defined and generic model interfaces are very important for a successful and extendable coupled model framework. The integrated approach, simulating ecosystem dynamics from physics to fish, allows for analysis of the pathways in the ecosystem to investigate the propagation of changes in the ocean climate and lower trophic levels to quantify the impacts on the higher trophic level, in this case the sandeel population, demonstrated here on the base of hindcast data. The coupled forecasting system is tested for some typical scientific questions appearing in spatial fish stock management and marine spatial planning, including determination of local and basin scale maximum sustainable yield, stock connectivity and source/sink structure. Our presented simulations indicate that sandeels stocks are currently exploited close to the maximum sustainable yield, but large uncertainty is associated with determining stock maximum sustainable yield due to stock eigen dynamics and climatic variability. Our statistical ensemble simulations indicates that the predictive horizon set by climate interannual variability is 2–6 yr, after which only an asymptotic probability distribution of stock properties, like biomass, are predictable.
Simulating snow maps for Norway: description and statistical evaluation of the seNorge snow model
Authors: Saloranta T. M.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. Daily maps of snow conditions have been produced in Norway with the seNorge snow model since 2004. The seNorge snow model operates with 1×1 km resolution, uses gridded observations of daily temperature and precipitation as its input forcing, and simulates among others snow water equivalent (SWE), snow depth (SD), and the snow bulk density (ρ). In this paper the set of equations contained in the seNorge model code is described and a~thorough spatiotemporal statistical evaluation of the model performance in 1957–2011 is made using the two major sets of extensive in-situ snow measurements that exist for Norway. The evaluation results show that the seNorge model generally overestimates both SWE and ρ, and that the distribution of model fit for SWE has a clear dependency on elevation throughout the snow season. However, the R2-values for model fit are 0.60 for (log-transformed) SWE and 0.45 for ρ, indicating that after removal of the detected systematic model biases (e.g. by recalibrating the model or expressing snow conditions in relative units) the model performs rather well. The seNorge model provides a relatively simple, not very data-demanding, yet still process-based method to construct snow maps of high spatiotemporal resolution. It is especially well-suited alternative for operational snow mapping in regions with rugged topography and large spatiotemporal variability in snow conditions, as is the case in the mountainous Norway.
A Novel Device for the Automatic Decellularization of Biological Tissues
Authors: Pellegata Alessandro F. , Asnaghi M. Adelaide , Zonta Sandro , Zerbini Gianpaolo , Mantero Sara
Published: March 2012

Objectives

Decellularized biological scaffolds represent a promising solution for tissue engineering. They offer a good substrate for cells in terms of biochemical composition, ultrastructure and mechanical properties without generating an immunogenic response. The aim of this study was to design and develop a device for the automatic decellularization of biological tissues to overcome manual operation limits, toward a good manufacturing practice-compliant process.

Methods

A versatile, modular and easy-to-use device was designed, able to automatically exchange decellularization fluids and to provide mechanical shaking according to a user-defined protocol. Preliminary decellularization tests were made on porcine abdominal aortas comparing results between conventional process and device-operated process using water, sodium deoxycholate and DNase. Vessels were processed up to 4 cycles of the protocol and after each decellularization cycle histological analyses (hematoxylin-eosin, Movat pentachrome and DAPI stainings) were observed. Preliminary mechanical tests were also performed to compare the mechanical behavior of blood vessels processed with the 2 methods mentioned above.

Results

Briefly, the device consists of decellularization chambers, a shaking system and hydraulic modules for the exchange of fluids. The device was bench-tested for functionality and reliability with positive outcomes. The protocol used revealed to be effective, with a progressive tissue decellularization through repeated cycles. No difference between manual and automated operation was observed in histological or mechanical analyses.

Conclusions

The developed device is able to automate the decellularization process lowering operator-related risks, and is a reliable and functional tool for clinical use.
EFECTOS DE DOS TÉCNICAS DE MANEJO AGRONÓMICO DEL PEPINO (Cucumis sativus L.) SOBRE LA OCURRENCIA POBLACIONAL DE INSECTOS PLAGAS, BENÉFICOS Y EL RENDIMIENTO EN TISMA, MASAYA
Authors: Jiménez-Martínez Edgardo , Padilla Mejía Marjorie
Published: March 2012

Este estudio se realizó con el objetivo de comparar el efecto que tienen dos técnicas de manejo agronómico del cultivo del pepino, sobre los insectos plagas, insectos benéficos y el rendimiento. El estudio se estableció en la finca “Berlín” ubicada en el municipio de Tisma – Masaya, llevándose a cabo entre los meses de diciembre 2006 a febrero 2007. Para el desarrollo de esta investigación se establecieron dos parcelas, en una parcela el pepino se desarrolló de forma rastrera y en la otra en espaldera. En cada parcela se tomaron semanalmente las siguientes variables: número de insectos plagas y benéficos por planta, y durante la cosecha el rendimiento del cultivo, para comparar el rendimiento entre las dos técnicas de siembras y para realizar un análisis de presupuesto parcial. Los resultados obtenidos fueron los siguientes: el menor número de insectos plagas lo presentó la parcela de pepino rastrero comparado con pepino sembrado en espaldera. Encontrándose diferencias significativas entre ambas técnicas de siembras. También se observó una tendencia de mayor número de insectos benéficos en la parcela de pepino rastrero en comparación con pepino en espaldera, aunque no se encontró diferencias significativas entre ambas técnicas de siembra. El mejor rendimiento y mayor beneficio neto lo presentó la parcela de pepino en espaldera comparado con la parcela de pepino rastrero.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5377/calera.v10i15.664
EVALUACIÓN DEL IMPACTO EN SEGURIDAD ALIMENTARIA DEL PROYECTO ESCUELAS DE CAMPO (ECAs), DIRIGIDO A PEQUEÑAS FAMILIAS CAMPESINAS DE LAS COMUNIDADES EL TERRERO Y EL MAMEY DEL MUNICIPIO DE SAN JOSÉ DE CUSMAPA, MADRIZ
Authors: Viachica Elgin Vivas , Herrera Ampie Johanna Del Carmen , Sequeira Ahmed Avilés
Published: March 2012

La realidad imperante del municipio de San José de Cusmapa, Madriz, plantea la necesidad de ejecutar proyectos que aporten a la Seguridad Alimentaria en las comunidades. Uno de los proyectos más importantes son las Escuelas de Campo, desarrolladas en las comunidades el Terrero y Mamey a partir del 2004. Para realizar el estudio de evaluación de impacto del proyecto Escuelas de Campo, se evaluaron a las familias que culminaron el proceso Escuelas de Campo, mediante encuestas realizadas en los hogares de cada uno de los beneficiarios y entrevistas a los técnicos que apoyaron la ejecución del proyecto. En el estudio se revelan los principales hallazgos: el proyecto escuelas de campo brindó a los participantes conocimientos de Manejo Integrado de Cultivos y Manejo Integrado de Plagas, comercialización, conservación de suelos y agua; dando como resultado el incremento en el área de producción, diversificación de parcelas de las familias beneficiadas, contribuyendo a la disponibilidad, acceso y mejoramiento del patrón de consumo de alimentos. Un impacto positivo es la diversificación en las parcelas de los beneficiarios; las familias han introducido nuevos rubros, como Hortalizas, Frutas y Tubérculos; un 47.62% de las familias cultivan los tres rubros básicos (Maíz, Frijol, Sorgo) y han incorporado a sus parcelas Hortalizas, tales como: Tomate, Chiltoma, Repollo, Cebolla; un 14,29% de las familias beneficiarias cultivan los tres rubros básicos más Hortalizas y Frutas (Aguacate, Cítricos, Mangos) y un 4,76% incorporó a sus parcelas Hortalizas, Frutas y Tubérculos, cultivando siempre los tres rubros básicos; el 9,52% de los beneficiarios cultivan Frutas y Tubérculos más Maíz, Frijol y Sorgo.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5377/calera.v10i15.669
Aislamiento e identificación de microorganismos en biopelículas provenientes del Castillo de Chapultepec, Ciudad de México.
Authors: Páramo Aguilera Leandro , Narváez Zapata J , De la Cruz E.
Published: March 2012

La microbiología hasta hoy está fundamentada en cultivos puros y microorganismos independientes, en realidad los cultivos puros no existen en la naturaleza, sino que los microorganismos se combinan en grandes colonias limosas (biopelículas) donde los diversos individuos establecen relaciones y dependencias. Solamente en Estados Unidos de América se estima que las biopelículas causan billones de dólares en pérdidas de energía, daños a equipos, contaminación de productos e infecciones médicas. En este trabajo se presentan los resultados del aislamiento de  microorganismos  por métodos microbiológicos y moleculares a partir de biopelículas localizadas en El Castillo de Chapultepec de la ciudad de México, determinándose que en las mismas coexisten diferentes géneros de hongos filamentosos como Cladosporium, Mucor, Alternaria, Aspergillus, Aureobasidium, Rhodotorulas entre otros. Además de géneros bacterianos como Bacillus, Pantoea, Kokuria, etc. Muchos de estos géneros microbianos han sido abundantemente reportados como participantes en procesos de biodeterioro a monumentos y otros están reportados como contribuyentes a su restauración, por lo que este trabajo abre las puertas a futuras investigaciones que permitan la restauración biológica de los monumentos, su conservación y desarrollo de nuevos procesos biotecnológicos. Palabras clave: Microbiología; cultivos puros; biopelículas; aislamiento de microorganismos; métodos microbiológicos; procesos de biodeterioro.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5377/nexo.v24i2.656
Asentamientos poblacionales periféricos más seguros. Instrumental para el diseño y evaluación de la calidad ambiental
Authors: Del Pozo Gómez Fredy , Gómez G.
Published: March 2012

La vulnerabilidad de un asentamiento ante cualquier situación y ámbito territorial, es una preocupación, debido entre otras cuestiones a su fuerte influencia en las políticas de desarrollo de gestión frente a desastres o eventos adversos externos que afectan el normal desarrollo de las personas; de ahí que diagnosticar la calidad ambiental de una urbanización en áreas espaciales específicas, como es el caso de las urbanizaciones periféricas, posibilita analizar aquellos factores que influyen en la vulnerabilidad de estas y formular recomendaciones para implementar políticas ambientales que mitiguen los riesgos. Partiendo de que la vulnerabilidad es una noción dinámica que examina los factores de riesgos, se presenta un instrumental para la evaluación ambiental de los Asentamientos Poblacionales Periféricos (APP), en las condiciones particulares de la ciudad Santiago de Cuba, donde se ha considerado esta componente dentro de sus indicadores evaluativos. Se expone el instrumental de referencia y su sistema categorial: variables, subvariables; parámetros evaluativos y escala de valores, lo que constituye la esencia del instrumental teórico diseñado; de igual forma se presentan los histogramas y matrices que conforman el instrumental práctico de evaluación. El mismo servirá para evaluar asentamientos en funcionamiento y para el diseño de nuevos, pudiendo ser generalizado a otros territorios.Palabras claves: Asentamientos poblacionales periféricos, calidad ambiental, vulnerabilidad.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5377/nexo.v24i2.659
Relaciones entre el operador La iterado j veces y la derivada de orden (k-1) de la delta de Dirac soportada en (fórmula)
Authors: Aguirre Manuel , Aguirre Rébora Emilio
Published: March 2012

En este artículo se obtienen fórmulas entre el operador La iterado j veces definido por la fórmula (31) y la derivada de orden  de la delta de Dirac soportada en (formula) En particular se obtiene que (formula) es una solución homogénea del operador ultrahiperbólico iterado l veces si (formula) y  está definida por medio de la fórmula (78) y es solución elemental del operador La iterado s veces. Haciendo (formula) en (18) se tiene que (formula) es solución homogénea del operador ultrahiperbólico si (formula) Nuestros resultados son generalizaciones de fórmulas que aparecen en ([10]).Palabras claves: Delta de Dirac; OperadorDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5377/nexo.v24i2.662
Escritórios de Projetos como Resposta Estratégica da Organização: Um Estudo de Caso na Vale
Authors: Martins Henrique Cordeiro , Moura Myrian Teixeira , De Mesquita José Marcos Carvalho
Published: March 2012

A gestão de projetos emergiu como uma alternativa competente para viabilizar mudanças organizacionais. O objetivo do trabalho foi examinar a configuração de Escritórios de Projetos, investigando como ela é influenciada pela estratégia e estrutura organizacionais para atender às demandas do ambiente, bem como sua adequação para favorecer o atingimento dos objetivos estratégicos da organização. Para isso, foi conduzido um estudo de caso qualitativo em três Escritórios de Projetos da Vale. Os resultados encontrados indicam que as demandas ambientais influenciam a estratégia de curto e médio prazo da organização, enquanto a estratégia de longo prazo foi a principal influência nas alterações da estrutura, inclusive com a criação dos Escritórios de Projetos investigados. A estratégia organizacional foi também a influência determinante na configuração dos Escritórios.DOI:10.5585/gep.v2i2.33
Competências em Gestão de Projetos de TI
Authors: Kiste Gerson , Moraes Renato De Oliveira
Published: March 2012

O presente artigo traz o resultado de um levantamento sobre as percepções das competências gerenciais em organizações de desenvolvimento de projetos de TI. O estudo foi desenvolvido junto a profissionais de 14 organizações e procurou avaliar a percepção desses profissionais, que atuam no desenvolvimento de projetos, sobre as competências dos gerentes de projetos. Em cada uma das organizações um mesmo questionário foi submetido a um gerente de projetos e a três membros de equipe (não necessariamente todos do mesmo projeto). Os dados obtidos foram submetidos a uma série de análises estatísticas que sugerem uma percepção distinta entre os gerentes e os membros da equipe. Em geral, estes últimos fazem uma avaliação mais rigorosa das práticas da organização em vários aspectos, principalmente em relação às competências comportamentais. Como exemplo, foi possível observar que os gerentes de projetos têm uma percepção mais positiva que os membros das equipes sobre suas competências.DOI:10.5585/gep.v2i2.50
Mixing Math Practice and Games, Greg Tang Makes Math Fun
Authors: Elkin Andrea Christie
Published: March 2012

This department publishes brief news articles, announcements, and guest editorials on current mathematics education issues that stimulate the interest of TCM readers and cause them to think about an issue or consider a specific viewpoint about some aspect of mathematics education., Greg Tang makes math fun this month by mixing math practice and games; grant-funding opportunities are highlighted, and the Coaches' corner addresses how to use professional development to model student engagement strategies.
Learning to tinker
Authors: Hudson Rick A. , Cross Dionne I. , Lee Mi Yeon , Rapacki Lauren
Published: March 2012

Teachers share success stories and ideas that stimulate thinking about the effective use of technology in K-grade 6 classrooms. Technological tools such as TinkerPlots support elementary school students in constructing statistical meaning and making data-based decisions.
Blogging the Third Wave?
Authors: Gunnarsson Payne Jenny
Published: March 2012

This essay seeks to address whether blogging can serve as a feminist tool, particularly as a form of practicing citizenship. More specifically, it asks whether feminist blogging contributes only to individualized forms of expression (based on the empowerment of single individuals) or whether blogging has a role in both the construction and endurance of collectivist forms of feminist politics. This essay begins by situating feminist blogging in a larger historical context of media production in the feminist movement. It then presents three different feminist blog projects in order to investigate the various ways in which these blogs practice what in recent literature is discussed in terms of “intimate citizenship.”
Biodegradable Photo‐Crosslinked Polymer Substrates with Concentric Microgrooves for Regulating MC3T3‐E1 Cell Behavior
Authors: Wang Kan , Cai Lei , Zhang Li , Dong Jingyan , Wang Shanfeng
Published: March 2012

Both intrinsic material properties and topographical features are critical in influencing cell‐biomaterial interactions. We present a systematic investigation of regulating mouse pre‐osteoblastic MC3T3‐E1 cell behavior on biodegradable polymer substrates with distinct mechanical properties and concentric microgrooves. The precursors for fabricating substrates used here were two poly(ϵ‐caprolactone) triacrylates (PCLTAs) synthesized from poly(ϵ‐caprolactone) triols with molecular weights of ∼7000 and ∼10000 g mol−1. These two PCLTAs were photo‐crosslinked into PCL networks with distinct thermal, rheological, and mechanical properties at physiological temperature because of their different crystallinities and melting temperatures. Microgrooved substrates with four groove widths of 7.5, 16.1, 44.2, and 91.2 μm and three groove depths of 0.2, 1, and 10 μm were prepared through replica molding, i.e., photo‐crosslinking PCLTA on micro‐fabricated silicon wafers with pre‐designed concentric groove patterns. MC3T3‐E1 cell attachment and proliferation could be better supported by the stiffer substrates while not significantly influenced by the microgrooves. Microgroove dimensions could regulate MC3T3‐E1 cell alignment, nuclear shape and distribution, mineralization, and gene expression. Among the microgrooves with a fixed depth of 10 μm, the smallest width of 7.5 μm could align and elongate the cytoskeleton and nuclei most efficiently. Strikingly, higher mineral deposition and upregulation of osteocalcin gene expression were found in the narrower microgrooves when the groove depth was 10 μm.
Terrestrial nest‐building by wild chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes): Implications for the tree‐to‐ground sleep transition in early hominins
Authors: Koops Kathelijne , McGrew William C. , Matsuzawa Tetsuro , Knapp Leslie A.
Published: March 2012

Nest‐building is a great ape universal and arboreal nesting in chimpanzees and bonobos suggests that the common ancestor ofPanandHomoalso nested in trees. It has been proposed that arboreal nest‐building remained the prevailing pattern untilHomo erectus, a fully terrestrial biped, emerged. We investigated the unusual occurrence of ground‐nesting in chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes), which may inform on factors influencing the tree‐to‐ground sleep transition in the hominin lineage. We used a novel genetic approach to examine ground‐nesting in unhabituated chimpanzees at Seringbara in the Nimba Mountains, Guinea. Previous research showed that ground‐nesting at Seringbara was not ecologically determined. Here, we tested a possible mate‐guarding function of ground‐nesting by analyzing DNA from shed hairs collected from ground nests and tree nests found in close proximity. We examined whether or not ground‐nesting was a group‐level behavioral pattern and whether or not it occurred in more than one community. We used multiple genetic markers to identify sex and to examine variation in mitochondrial DNA control region (HV1, HV2) sequences. Ground‐nesting was a male‐biased behavior and males constructed more elaborate (“night”) nests than simple (“day”) nests on the ground. The mate‐guarding hypothesis was not supported, as ground and associated tree nests were built either by maternally‐related males or possibly by the same individuals. Ground‐nesting was widespread and likely habitual in two communities. We suggest that terrestrial nest‐building may have already occurred in arboreally‐adapted early hominins before the emergence ofH. erectus. Am J Phys Anthropol 148:351–361, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Electrospinning of solvent‐resistant nanofibers based on poly(acrylonitrile‐co‐glycidyl methacrylate)
Authors: Dai Tianhe , Ebert Katrin
Published: March 2012

This article reports on the preparation of novel solvent‐resistant nanofibers by electrospinning of poly(acrylonitrile‐co‐glycidyl methacrylate) (PANGMA) and subsequent chemical crosslinking. PANGMA nanofibers with diameters ranging from 200 to 600 nm were generated by electrospinning different solutions of PANGMA dissolved in N,N‐dimethylformamide. Different additives were added to reduce the fiber diameter and improve the morphology of the nanofibers. The as‐spun PANGMA nanofibers were crosslinked with 27 wt % aqueous ammonia solution at 50°C for 3 h to gain the solvent resistance. Swelling tests indicated that the crosslinked nanofibers swelled in several solvents but were not dissolved. The weight loss of all the crosslinked nanofibrous mats immersed in solvents for more than 72 h was very low. The characterization by electron microscopy revealed that the nanofibrous mats maintained their structure. This was also confirmed by the results of the pore size measurements. These novel nanofibers are considered to have a great potential as supports for the immobilization of homogeneous catalysts and enzymes. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012