bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From Fibonacci Sequence to the Golden Ratio
Authors: Fiorenza Alberto , Vincenzi Giovanni
Published: March 2013

We consider the well-known characterization of the Golden ratio as limit of the ratio of consecutive terms of the Fibonacci sequence, and we give an explanation of this property in the framework of the Difference Equations Theory. We show that the Golden ratio coincides with this limit not because it is the root with maximum modulus and multiplicity of the characteristic polynomial, but, from a more general point of view, because it is the root with maximum modulus and multiplicity of a restricted set of roots, which in this special case coincides with the two roots of the characteristic polynomial. This new perspective is the heart of the characterization of the limit of ratio of consecutive terms of all linear homogeneous recurrences with constant coefficients, without any assumption on the roots of the characteristic polynomial, which may be, in particular, also complex and not real.
Age-Related Changes in Trabecular and Cortical Bone Microstructure
Authors: Chen Huayue , Zhou Xiangrong , Fujita Hiroshi , Onozuka Minoru , Kubo Kin-Ya
Published: March 2013

The elderly population has substantially increased worldwide. Aging is a complex process, and the effects of aging are myriad and insidious, leading to progressive deterioration of various organs, including the skeleton. Age-related bone loss and resultant osteoporosis in the elderly population increase the risk for fractures and morbidity. Osteoporosis is one of the most common conditions associated with aging, and age is an independent risk factor for osteoporotic fractures. With the development of noninvasive imaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT), micro-CT, and high resolution peripheral quantitative CT (HR-pQCT), imaging of the bone architecture provides important information about age-related changes in bone microstructure and estimates of bone strength. In the past two decades, studies of human specimens using imaging techniques have revealed decreased bone strength in older adults compared with younger adults. The present paper addresses recently studied age-related changes in trabecular and cortical bone microstructure based primarily on HR-pQCT and micro-CT. We specifically focus on the three-dimensional microstructure of the vertebrae, femoral neck, and distal radius, which are common osteoporotic fracture sites.
The Related Extension and Application of the Ši'lnikov Theorem
Authors: Chen Baoying
Published: March 2013

The traditional Ši'lnikov theorems provide analytic criteria for proving the existence of chaos in high-dimensional autonomous systems. We have established one extended version of the Ši'lnikov homoclinic theorem and have given a set of sufficient conditions under which the system generates chaos in the sense of Smale horseshoes. In this paper, the extension questions of the Ši'lnikov homoclinic theorem and its applications are still discussed. We establish another extended version of the Ši'lnikov homoclinic theorem. In addition, we construct a new three-dimensional chaotic system which meets all the conditions in this extended Ši'lnikov homoclinic theorem. Finally, we list all well-known three-dimensional autonomous quadratic chaotic systems and classify them in the light of the Ši'lnikov theorems.
Solar Neutrinos
Authors: Antonelli V. , Miramonti L. , Peña Garay C. , Serenelli A.
Published: March 2013

The study of solar neutrinos has given a fundamental contribution both to astroparticle and to elementary particle physics, offering an ideal test of solar models and offering at the same time relevant indications on the fundamental interactions among particles. After reviewing the striking results of the last two decades, which were determinant to solve the long standing solar neutrino puzzle and refine the Standard Solar Model, we focus our attention on the more recent results in this field and on the experiments presently running or planned for the near future. The main focus at the moment is to improve the knowledge of the mass and mixing pattern and especially to study in detail the lowest energy part of the spectrum, which represents most of the solar neutrino spectrum but is still a partially unexplored realm. We discuss this research project and the way in which present and future experiments could contribute to make the theoretical framework more complete and stable, understanding the origin of some “anomalies” that seem to emerge from the data and contributing to answer some present questions, like the exact mechanism of the vacuum to matter transition and the solution of the so-called solar metallicity problem.
Improvements in the Quantitative Assessment of Cerebral Blood Volume and Flow with the Removal of Vessel Voxels from MR Perfusion Images
Authors: Teng Michael Mu Huo , Cho I-Chieh , Kao Yi-Hsuan , Chuang Chi-Shuo , Chiu Fang-Ying , Chang Feng-Chi
Published: March 2013

Objective. To improve the quantitative assessment of cerebral blood volume (CBV) and flow (CBF) in the brain voxels from MR perfusion images.Materials and Methods. Normal brain parenchyma was automatically segmented with the time-to-peak criteria after cerebrospinal fluid removal and preliminary vessel voxel removal. Two scaling factors were calculated by comparing the relative CBV and CBF of the segmented normal brain parenchyma with the absolute values in the literature. Using the scaling factors, the relative values were converted to the absolute CBV and CBF. Voxels with either CBV > 8 mL/100 g or CBF > 100 mL/100 g/min were characterized as vessel voxels and were excluded from the quantitative measurements.Results. The segmented brain parenchyma with normal perfusion was consistent with the angiographic findings for each patient. We confirmed the necessity of dual thresholds including CBF and CBV for proper removal of vessel voxels. The scaling factors were 0.208 ± 0.041 for CBV, and 0.168 ± 0.037, 0.172 ± 0.037 for CBF calculated using standard and circulant singular value decomposition techniques, respectively.Conclusion. The automatic scaling and vessel removal techniques provide an alternative method for obtaining improved quantitative assessment of CBV and CBF in patients with thromboembolic cerebral arterial disease.
Diffusion Coefficients, Short-Term Cosmic Ray Modulation, and Convected Magnetic Structures
Authors: Quenby John J. , Mulligan Tamitha , Blake J. Bernard , Shaul Diana N. A.
Published: March 2013

Three cases of large-amplitude, small spatial-scale interplanetary particle gradients observed by the anticoincidence shield (ACS) aboard the INTEGRAL spacecraft in 2006 are investigated. The high data rates provided by the INTEGRAL ACS allow an unprecedented ability to probe the fine structure of GCR propagation in the inner Heliosphere. For two of the three cases, calculating perpendicular and parallel cosmic ray diffusion coefficients based on both field and particle data results in parallel diffusion appearing to satisfy a convection gradient current balance, provided that the magnetic scattering of the particles can be described by quasi-linear theory. In the third case, perpendicular diffusion seems to dominate. The likelihood of magnetic flux rope topologies within solar ejecta affecting the local modulation is considered, and its importance in understanding the field-particle interaction for the astrophysics of nonthermal particle phenomena is discussed.
Evidence for PAH Removal Coupled to the First Steps of Anaerobic Digestion in Sewage Sludge
Authors: Cea-Barcia Glenda , Carrère Hélène , Steyer Jean Philippe , Patureau Dominique
Published: March 2013

Anaerobic degradation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons has been brought to the fore, but information on removal kinetics and anaerobic degrading bacteria is still lacking. In order to explore the organic micropollutants removal kinetics under anaerobic conditions in regard to the methane production kinetics, the removal rate of 12 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons was measured in two anaerobic batch reactors series fed with a highly loaded secondary sludge as growth substrate. The results underscore that organic micropollutants removal is coupled to the initial stages of anaerobic digestion (acidogenesis and acetogenesis). In addition, the organic micropollutants kinetics suggest that the main removal mechanisms of these hydrophobic compounds are biodegradation and/or sequestration depending on the compounds.
Stem Cell Therapy for Lower Extremity Diabetic Ulcers: Where Do We Stand?
Authors: Yang Mei , Sheng Lingling , Zhang Tian R. , Li Qingfeng
Published: March 2013

The impairment of wound healing in diabetic patients is an important clinical problem affecting millions of patients worldwide. Various clinical and basic science studies show that stem cell therapy, as a regenerative medical therapy, can be a good solution. In this paper, we begin with an introduction of the cellular mechanism of the diabetic ulcer. We will then discuss the advantages and limitations of various stem cell therapies that have been under extensive recent study.
Sleep Disruption and Proprioceptive Delirium due to Acetaminophen in a Pediatric Patient
Authors: Carnovale Carla , Pozzi Marco , Nisic Andrea Angelo , Scrofani Elisa , Perrone Valentina , Antoniazzi Stefania , Clementi Emilio , Radice Sonia
Published: March 2013

We present the case of a 7-year-old boy, who received acetaminophen for the treatment of hyperpyrexia, due to an infection of the superior airways. 13 mg/kg (260 mg) of acetaminophen was administered orally before bedtime, and together with the expected antipyretic effect, the boy experienced sleep disruption and proprioceptive delirium. The symptoms disappeared within one hour. In the following six months, acetaminophen was administered again twice, and the reaction reappeared with similar features. Potential alternative explanations were excluded, and analysis with the Naranjo algorithm indicated a “probable” relationship between acetaminophen and this adverse reaction. We discuss the potential mechanisms involved, comprising imbalances in prostaglandin levels, alterations of dopamine, and cannabinoid and serotonin signalings.
Crude Oil Price Prediction Based on a Dynamic Correcting Support Vector Regression Machine
Authors: Shu-rong Li , Yu-lei Ge
Published: March 2013

A new accurate method on predicting crude oil price is presented, which is based onε-support vector regression (ε-SVR) machine with dynamic correction factor correcting forecasting errors. We also propose the hybrid RNA genetic algorithm (HRGA) with the position displacement idea of bare bones particle swarm optimization (PSO) changing the mutation operator. The validity of the algorithm is tested by using three benchmark functions. From the comparison of the results obtained by using HRGA and standard RNA genetic algorithm (RGA), respectively, the accuracy of HRGA is much better than that of RGA. In the end, to make the forecasting result more accurate, the HRGA is applied to the optimize parameters ofε-SVR. The predicting result is very good. The method proposed in this paper can be easily used to predict crude oil price in our life.
Using the Developmental GeneBicoidto Identify Species of Forensically Important Blowflies (Diptera: Calliphoridae)
Authors: Park Seong Hwan , Park Chung Hyun , Zhang Yong , Piao Huguo , Chung Ukhee , Kim Seong Yoon , Ko Kwang Soo , Yi Cheong-Ho , Jo Tae-Ho , Hwang Juck-Joon
Published: March 2013

Identifying species of insects used to estimate postmortem interval (PMI) is a major subject in forensic entomology. Because forensic insect specimens are morphologically uniform and are obtained at various developmental stages, DNA markers are greatly needed. To develop new autosomal DNA markers to identify species, partial genomic sequences of thebicoid(bcd) genes, containing the homeobox and its flanking sequences, from 12 blowfly species (Aldrichina grahami, Calliphora vicina, Calliphora lata, Triceratopyga calliphoroides, Chrysomya megacephala, Chrysomya pinguis, Phormia regina, Lucilia ampullacea, Lucilia caesar, Lucilia illustris, Hemipyrellia ligurriensandLucilia sericata; Calliphoridae: Diptera) were determined and analyzed. This study first sequenced the ten blowfly species other thanC. vicinaandL. sericata. Based on thebcdsequences of these 12 blowfly species, a phylogenetic tree was constructed that discriminates the subfamilies of Calliphoridae (Luciliinae, Chrysomyinae, and Calliphorinae) and most blowfly species. Even partial genomic sequences of about 500 bp can distinguish most blowfly species. The short intron 2 and coding sequences downstream of thebcdhomeobox in exon 3 could be utilized to develop DNA markers for forensic applications. These gene sequences are important in the evolution of insect developmental biology and are potentially useful for identifying insect species in forensic science.
A Method of Signal Timing Optimization for Spillover Dissipation in Urban Street Networks
Authors: Ma Dongfang , Wang Dianhai , Bie Yiming , Di Sun
Published: March 2013

The precise identification and quick dissipation of spillovers are critically important in a traffic control system, especially when heavy congestion occurs. This paper first presents a calculation method for the occupancy per cycle under different traffic conditions and identifies the threshold of occupancy that characterizes the formation of spillovers. Then, capacity adjustments are determined for the incoming and outgoing streams of bottleneck links, with the aim of dissipating the queue to a permissible length within a given period of time, and optimization schemes are defined to calculate splits for the upstream and downstream intersections. Finally, taking average vehicular delay, outputs per cycle, and maximum queue length on the bottleneck link as the evaluation indices, the method of dissipating spillovers proposed in this paper is evaluated using a VISSIM simulation. The results show that the maximum queue length on the bottleneck link and the average vehicular delay at the upstream and downstream intersections decrease significantly under the new signal control plan; meanwhile, the new control schemes have little influence on the outputs of the two intersections per cycle.
Computational Techniques for Model Predictive Control of Large-Scale Systems with Continuous-Valued and Discrete-Valued Inputs
Authors: Kobayashi Koichi , Hiraishi Kunihiko
Published: March 2013

We propose computational techniques for model predictive control of large-scale systems with both continuous-valued control inputs and discrete-valued control inputs, which are a class of hybrid systems. In the proposed method, we introduce the notion of virtual control inputs, which are obtained by relaxing discrete-valued control inputs to continuous variables. In online computation, first, we find continuous-valued control inputs and virtual control inputs minimizing a cost function. Next, using the obtained virtual control inputs, only discrete-valued control inputs at the current time are computed in each subsystem. In addition, we also discuss the effect of quantization errors. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed method is shown by a numerical example. The proposed method enables us to reduce and decentralize the computation load.
A Characterization of Semilinear Dense Range Operators and Applications
Authors: Leiva H. , Merentes N. , Sanchez J.
Published: March 2013

We characterize a broad class of semilinear dense range operators given by the following formula, , where , are Hilbert spaces, , and is a suitable nonlinear operator. First, we give a necessary and sufficient condition for the linear operator to have dense range. Second, under some condition on the nonlinear term , we prove the following statement: If , then and for all there exists a sequence given by , such that . Finally, we apply this result to prove the approximate controllability of the following semilinear evolution equation: , where , are Hilbert spaces, is the infinitesimal generator of strongly continuous compact semigroup in , the control function belongs to , and is a suitable function. As a particular case we consider the controlled semilinear heat equation.
Adaptive Wavelet Precise Integration Method for Nonlinear Black-Scholes Model Based on Variational Iteration Method
Authors: Yan Huahong
Published: March 2013

An adaptive wavelet precise integration method (WPIM) based on the variational iteration method (VIM) for Black-Scholes model is proposed. Black-Scholes model is a very useful tool on pricing options. First, an adaptive wavelet interpolation operator is constructed which can transform the nonlinear partial differential equations into a matrix ordinary differential equations. Next, VIM is developed to solve the nonlinear matrix differential equation, which is a new asymptotic analytical method for the nonlinear differential equations. Third, an adaptive precise integration method (PIM) for the system of ordinary differential equations is constructed, with which the almost exact numerical solution can be obtained. At last, the famous Black-Scholes model is taken as an example to test this new method. The numerical result shows the method's higher numerical stability and precision.
Acute Triangulations of Trapezoids and Pentagons
Authors: Cavicchioli Maddalena
Published: March 2013

An acute triangulation of a polygon is a triangulation whose triangles have all their angles less than . The number of triangles in a triangulation is called the size of it. In this paper, we investigate acute triangulations of trapezoids and convex pentagons and prove new results about such triangulations with minimum size. This completes and improves in some cases the results obtained in two papers of Yuan (2010).
Anti-CandidaProperties of Urauchimycins from Actinobacteria Associated withTrachymyrmexAnts
Authors: Mendes Thais D. , Borges Warley S. , Rodrigues Andre , Solomon Scott E. , Vieira Paulo C. , Duarte Marta C. T. , Pagnocca Fernando C.
Published: March 2013

After decades of intensive searching for antimicrobial compounds derived from actinobacteria, the frequency of isolation of new molecules has decreased. To cope with this concern, studies have focused on the exploitation of actinobacteria from unexplored environments and actinobacteria symbionts of plants and animals. In this study, twenty-four actinobacteria strains isolated from workers ofTrachymyrmexants were evaluated for antifungal activity towards a variety ofCandidaspecies. Results revealed that seven strains inhibited the testedCandidaspecies.Streptomycessp. TD025 presented potent and broad spectrum of inhibition ofCandidaand was selected for the isolation of bioactive molecules. From liquid shake culture of this bacterium, we isolated the rare antimycin urauchimycins A and B. For the first time, these molecules were evaluated for antifungal activity against medically importantCandidaspecies. Both antimycins showed antifungal activity, especially urauchimycin B. This compound inhibited the growth of allCandidaspecies tested, with minimum inhibitory concentration values equivalent to the antifungal nystatin. Our results concur with the predictions that the attine ant-microbe symbiosis may be a source of bioactive metabolites for biotechnology and medical applications.
Stability and Convergence of an Effective Finite Element Method for Multiterm Fractional Partial Differential Equations
Authors: Zhao Jingjun , Xiao Jingyu , Xu Yang
Published: March 2013

A finite element method (FEM) for multiterm fractional partial differential equations (MT-FPDEs) is studied for obtaining a numerical solution effectively. The weak formulation for MT-FPDEs and the existence and uniqueness of the weak solutions are obtained by the well-known Lax-Milgram theorem. The Diethelm fractional backward difference method (DFBDM), based on quadrature for the time discretization, and FEM for the spatial discretization have been applied to MT-FPDEs. The stability and convergence for numerical methods are discussed. The numerical examples are given to match well with the main conclusions.
Differentiating between Underwater Construction Noise of Monopile and Jacket Foundations for Offshore Windmills: A Case Study from the Belgian Part of the North Sea
Authors: Norro Alain Michel Jules , Rumes Bob , Degraer Steven Johan
Published: March 2013

Steel monopiles, jackets requiring four steel pinpiles, and gravity‐based foundations were applied in offshore wind farms in the Belgian part of the North Sea. This paper compares the underwater noise generated during the piling activities of steel monopiles at the Belwind wind farm (Blighbank) with that of jacket pinpiles at the C‐Power project (Thorntonbank). Underwater noise was measured at various distances from the pile driving location. The underwater noise was quantified by its zero to peak sound pressure level (Lz−p), unweighted sound exposure level (SEL), cumulative SEL, and 1/3 octave spectra. No significant differences in Lz−p could be demonstrated (monopile Lz−p: 179–194 dB re 1 μPa, jacket Lz−p: 172–189 dB re 1 μPa). SEL showed no statistical difference between monopile and jacket and varied between 145 and 168 dB re 1 μPa2s. Furthermore, near identical spectra were measured for both types of piling. Piling of the jacket pinpiles took, however, about 2.5 times the time of the monopile. When standardised to megawatt installed per foundation both types of piling scored near equally. As an illustration, the radius of major behavioural disturbance (Lp−p = 155 dB re 1 μPa) in the harbour porpoise Phocoena phocoena was estimated by a model at 16 km for monopiles and at 8 km for jacket.
Pulmonary Septic Emboli due to Azygos Vein Septic Thrombosis
Authors: Pradhan Ginius , Shaheen Khaldoon , Muoneke Mary , Altaqi Basel
Published: March 2013

The triad of extrapulmonary infection, contiguous septic vein thrombosis, and septic pulmonary embolism is a rare complex but associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Septic azygos vein thrombosis is extremely rare and potentially serious since it may also cause pulmonary emboli and sudden death. We report a case of a 32-year-old woman with history of IV drug abuse who presented with epidural abscess and methicillin-resistantS. aureus(MRSA) bacteremia. Later she developed signs of septic pulmonary embolism secondary to septic azygos vein thrombosis. With early diagnosis, appropriate antimicrobial therapy, and control of the infectious source, resolution of the illness can be expected for most patients with avoidance of potential complications.
Natural Products and Biological Activity of the Pharmacologically Active Cauliflower MushroomSparassis crispa
Authors: Kimura Takashi
Published: March 2013

Sparassis crispa, also known as cauliflower mushroom, is an edible mushroom with medicinal properties. Its cultivation became popular in Japan about 10 years ago, a phenomenon that has been attributed not only to the quality of its taste, but also to its potential for therapeutic applications. Herein, I present a comprehensive summary of the pharmacological activities and mechanisms of action of its bioactive components, such as beta-glucan, and other physiologically active substances. In particular, the immunomodulatory mechanisms of the beta-glucan components are presented herein in detail.
The Genetics of Susceptibility to Variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease
Authors: Saba R. , Booth S.A.
Published: March 2013

The emergence of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) in cattle and, subsequently, its transmission to humans resulting in variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (vCJD) in the UK has proved to be one of the major public health scares of the century. The oral route of infection, the long incubation period, and the incredible resistance of the transmissible infectious agent to various forms of decontamination poses unique challenges. Fortunately, despite extensive exposure of the UK population to contaminated meat, the size of the vCJD epidemic that has emerged since its initial detection is relatively low (225 worldwide). An explanation for this disparity is as yet incomplete, but the development of the disease is likely influenced by a number of factors including physical properties of the infectious agent, environmental factors such as the route and amount of exposure and individual susceptibility factors. This review focuses on current knowledge of the genetic factors that undoubtedly play a major role in influencing the development of vCJD. In terms of genetic susceptibility, the best characterised is the common single nucleotide polymorphism at codon 129 of the human prion protein gene (PRNP). Moreover, several other polymorphisms and mutations have been identified that may affect susceptibility as well as other important disease characteristics such as the highly variable prion disease incubation period.
Chlamydia trachomatis Infections and Subfertility: Opportunities to Translate Host Pathogen Genomic Data into Public Health
Authors: Lal J.A. , Malogajski J. , Verweij S.P. , de Boer P. , Ambrosino E. , Brand A. , Ouburg S. , Morré S.A.
Published: March 2013

Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) infections in women can result in tubal pathology (TP). Worldwide 10-15% of all couples are subfertile, meaning they did not get pregnant after 1 year. Part of the routine subfertility diagnostics is the Chlamydia Antibody Test (CAT) to decide for laparoscopy or not in order to diagnose TP. The CAT positive and negative predictive value is such that many unneeded laparoscopies are done and many TP cases are missed. Addition of host genetic markers related to infection susceptibility and severity could potentially improve the clinical management of couples who suffer from subfertility. In the present study, the potential translational and clinical value of adding diagnostic host genetic marker profiles on the basis of infection and inflammation to the current clinical management of subfertility was investigated. This review provides an overview of the current state of the art of host genetic markers in relation to CT infection, proposes a new clinical diagnostic approach, and investigates how the Learning-Adapting-Leveling model (LAL, a public health genomic (PHG) model) can be of value and provide insight to see whether these host genetic markers can be translated into public health. This review shows that the preliminary basis of adding host genetic marker profiles to the current diagnostic procedures of subfertility is present but has to be further developed before implementation into health care can be achieved. CT infection is an example in the field of PHG with potential diagnostic to be taken up in the future in the field of subfertility diagnosis with a time line for integration to be dependent on enhanced participation of many stakeholders in the field of PHG which could be advanced through the LAL model.
Long-Term Intraocular Pressure Changes in Patients with Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration Treated with Ranibizumab
Authors: Menke Marcel N. , Salam Adzura , Framme Carsten , Wolf Sebastian
Published: March 2013

Background/Aims: To investigate the long-term effects of multiple intravitreal injections (IVTs) of ranibizumab (Lucentis) on intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration. Methods: In 320 eyes, IOP measurements were performed at baseline prior to injection and compared with IOP measurements of the last visit. Correlations between mean IOP change and total number of IVTs, visual acuity or patient age were tested. Results: The mean IOP increase was 0.8 ± 3.1 mm Hg (p < 0.0001). Seven eyes showed final IOP values between 22 and 25 mm Hg. The mean follow-up was 22.7 ± 14.1 months. No further correlations between IOP change and number of IVTs, visual acuity or patient age have been found. Conclusions: This study demonstrated a statistically significant IOP increase in patients treated with repeated injections of ranibizumab. However, IOP increase required no glaucoma treatment during the study. Therefore, repeated injections with ranibizumab can be considered safe with regard to long-term IOP changes in patients without ocular hypertension or glaucoma.
Prevalence of Pre-End-Stage Renal Disease Care and Associated Outcomes among Urban, Micropolitan, and Rural Dialysis Patients
Authors: Maripuri Saugar , Ikizler T. Alp , Cavanaugh Kerri L.
Published: March 2013

Background/Aims: Pre-end-stage renal disease (ESRD) care is associated with improved outcomes among patients receiving dialysis. It is unknown what proportion of US micropolitan and rural dialysis patients receive pre-ESRD care and benefit from such care when compared to urban. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed using data from the US Renal Data System. Patients ≥18 years old who initiated dialysis in 2006 and 2007 were classified as rural, micropolitan or urban and the prevalence of pre-ESRD care (early nephrology care >6 months, permanent vascular access, -dietary education) was determined using the medical evidence report. The association of pre-ESRD care with dialysis mortality and transplantation was assessed using Cox regression with stratification for geographic residence. Results: Of 204,463 dialysis patients, 80% were urban, 10.2% were micropolitan and 9.8% were rural. Overall attainment of pre-ESRD care was poor. After adjustment, there were no significant geographic differences in attainment of early nephrology care or permanent dialysis access. Receiving care reduced all-cause mortality and increased the likelihood of transplantation to a similar degree regardless of geographic residence. Both micropolitan and rural patients received less dietary education (relative risk = 0.80, 95% CI = 0.76-0.84 and relative risk = 0.85, 95% CI = 0.80-0.89, respectively). Conclusion: Among patients who receive dialysis, the prevalence of early nephrology care and permanent dialysis access is poor and does not vary by geographic residence. Micropolitan and rural patients receive less dietary education despite an observed mortality benefit, suggesting that barriers may exist to quality dietary care in more remote locations.
Pulse Wave Velocity in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Suzuki Hiromichi , Kondo Kazuoki
Published: March 2013

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and osteoporosis are major causes of morbidity and mortality in postmenopausal women. The relationship between atherosclerosis and osteoporosis has been established by studies of the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms and biochemical pathways that seem to overlap in many places. Pulse wave velocity (PWV) is one of the known predictors of cardiovascular and all-cause mortality. Studies indicate that PWV in hypertensive postmenopausal women is increased, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) attenuates this increase. In addition, recently, many studies have suggested a role for arterial stiffness in the association between CVD and osteoporosis. From these findings, it appears that estrogen deficiency combined with production of inflammatory cytokines plays a role in increased PWV closely associated with CVD and osteoporosis, although the mechanisms of arterial stiffness in postmenopausal women may be more complex. Accordingly, a possible role for PWV as a surrogate marker of CVD as well as osteoporosis in postmenopausal women is discussed in this review. First, menopause leads to increased arterial stiffness with aging in females. Further, epidemiological data evaluating arterial stiffness assessed by PWV provided evidence that most of the established CVD risk factors are determinants of PWV, and these risk factors are increased in patients with CVD. In turn, contrary to expectation, HRT did not always contribute to a lower incidence of CVD in postmenopausal women. By reviewing the current data available, it becomes clear that, at present, the effects of menopause including HRT on PWV remain controversial, and further studies are needed to clarify these associations.
A Case of Bilateral Descemet's Membrane and Subepithelial Opacity: In vivo Laser Confocal Microscopic Study
Authors: Hatta Yukiko , Yokogawa Hideaki , Kobayashi Akira , Torisaki Makoto , Sugiyama Kazuhisa
Published: March 2013

Purpose: To report the in vivo laser confocal microscopy findings from a patient with Descemet's membrane and subepithelial opacity OU. Case Report: A healthy 41-year-old male with Descemet's membrane and subepithelial opacity OU was studied. Routine ophthalmic examination, standard slit-lamp biomicroscopy, and in vivo laser confocal microscopic analysis of the entire corneal layer were performed. Slit-lamp biomicroscopy revealed subepithelial opacity in the mid-peripheral to peripheral cornea and numerous opacities located at the level of Descemet's membrane. It was difficult to distinguish the precise histological location of the opacity. In vivo laser confocal microscopy showed numerous hyperreflective particles in the subepithelium to superficial stroma and hyperreflectivity of Descemet's membrane. No abnormalities could be detected in the epithelial cell layer, midstromal layer, deep stromal layer, or endothelial cell layer. Conclusion: Although the origin of the corneal opacities was unclear, in vivo laser confocal microscopy was useful for observing microstructural abnormalities in a case of Descemet's membrane and subepithelial opacity.
A new species of Microlicia (Melastomataceae) from the Espinhaço Range, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Authors: ROMERO ROSANA
Published: March 2013

A new endemic species of Microlicia from campos rupestres of the Espinhaço Range is described and illustrated. The new species is characterized by having leaves of different sizes distributed along the branches, petioles 1–2 mm long, leaf blade that are attenuate at the base, with an entire margins, prominent and thickened nerves mainly on the abaxial surface, and an indumentum of short pale, glandular trichomes and sessile golden glands covering the whole plant. It resembles M. avicularis, M. tomentella and M. elegans, which also occur in the Espinhaço Range, in Minas Gerais state.
Dracaena rosulata (Asparagaceae)—a new species from D.R. Congo
Authors: MWACHALA GEOFFREY , FISCHER EBERHARD
Published: March 2013

Dracaena Linnaeus (1767: 229) comprises about 46 species in Africa (Bos 1984, Mwachala 2005). The genus is closely related to Sansevieria Thunberg (1794: 65) and both genera form the Dracaenoid clade within Convallariaceae (APG 1998). Later Rudall et al. (2000) pointed out that the name Ruscaceae has priority over Convallariaceae. According to APG III (2009) Ruscaceae are considered a synonym of Asparagaceae. While preparing a revision of Dracaena for Tropical Africa and the treatment for "Flore d’Afrique Centrale" several unidentified specimens came to light which proved to represent new species. Two of them have been described recently (Mwachala et al. 2007, Mwachala & Cheek 2012). One new species is described in the present paper.
The Role of Stationary Eddies in Shaping Midlatitude Storm Tracks
Authors: Kaspi Yohai , Schneider Tapio
Published: March 2013

Transient and stationary eddies shape the extratropical climate through their transport of heat, moisture, and momentum. In the zonal mean, the transports by transient eddies dominate over those by stationary eddies, but this is not necessarily the case locally. In particular, in storm-track entrance and exit regions during winter, stationary eddies and their interactions with the mean flow dominate the atmospheric energy transport. Here it is shown that stationary eddies can shape storm tracks and control where they terminate by modifying local baroclinicity. Simulations with an idealized aquaplanet GCM show that zonally localized surface heating alone (e.g., ocean heat flux convergence) gives rise to storm tracks, which have a well-defined length scale that is similar to that of Earth's storm tracks. The storm tracks terminate downstream of the surface heating even in the absence of continents, at a distance controlled by the stationary Rossby wavelength scale. Stationary eddies play a dual role: within about half a Rossby wavelength downstream of the heating region, stationary eddy energy fluxes increase the baroclinicity and therefore contribute to energizing the storm track; farther downstream, enhanced poleward and upward energy transport by stationary eddies reduces the baroclinicity by reducing the meridional temperature gradients and enhancing the static stability. Transports both of sensible and latent heat (water vapor) play important roles in determining where storm tracks terminate.
Evaluation of Global Atmospheric Solvers Using Extensions of the Jablonowski and Williamson Baroclinic Wave Test Case
Authors: Park Sang-Hun , Skamarock William C. , Klemp Joseph B. , Fowler Laura D. , Duda Michael G.
Published: March 2013

The hydrostatic and nonhydrostatic atmospheric solvers within the Model for Prediction Across Scales (MPAS) are tested using an extension of Jablonowski and Williamson baroclinic wave test case that includes moisture. This study uses the dry test case to verify the correctness of the solver formulation and coding by comparing results from the two different MPAS solvers and from the global version of the Advanced Research Weather Research and Forecasting Model (ARW-WRF). A normal mode initialization is used in the Jablonowski and Williamson test, and the most unstable mode is found to be wavenumber 9. The three solvers produce very similar normal mode structures and nonlinear baroclinic wave evolutions. Solutions produced using MPAS variable-resolution meshes are quite similar to the results from the quasi-uniform mesh with equivalent resolution. Importantly, the small-scale flow features are better resolved in the fine-resolution region and there is no apparent wave distortion in the fine-to-coarse mesh transition region, thus demonstrating the potential value of MPAS for multiscale flow simulation.
Improved Quantitative Precipitation Forecasts by MHS Radiance Data Assimilation with a Newly Added Cloud Detection Algorithm
Authors: Zou Xiaolei , Qin Zhengkun , Weng Fuzhong
Published: March 2013

Satellite microwave humidity sounding data are assimilated through the gridpoint statistical interpolation (GSI) analysis system into the Advanced Research core of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model (ARW) for a coastal precipitation event. A detailed analysis shows that uses of Microwave Humidity Sounder (MHS) data from both NOAA-18 and MetOp-A results in GSI degraded precipitation threat scores in a 24-h model forecast. The root cause for this degradation is related to the MHS quality control algorithm, which is supposed to remove cloudy radiances. Currently, the GSI cloud detection is based on the brightness temperature differences between observations and the model background state at two MHS window channels. It is found that the GSI quality control algorithm fails to identify some MHS cloudy radiances in cloud edges where the ARW model has no cloud and the water vapor amount is low. A new MHS cloud detection algorithm is developed based on a statistical relationship between three MHS channels and the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES) imager channel at 10.7 μm. The 24-h quantitative precipitation forecast is improved rather than degraded by MHS radiance data assimilation when the new cloud detection algorithm is added to the GSI MHS quality control process. The temporal evolution of 3-h accumulative rainfall distributions compared favorably with that of multisensor NCEP observations and GOES-12 imager observations. The precipitation threat scores are increased by more than 50% after 3–6 h of model forecasts for 3-h rainfall thresholds exceeding 1.0 mm.
Relating the Skill of Tropical Cyclone Intensity Forecasts to the Synoptic Environment
Authors: Bhatia Kieran T. , Nolan David S.
Published: March 2013

Prior knowledge of the performance of a tropical cyclone intensity forecast holds the potential to increase the value of forecasts for end users. The values of certain dynamical parameters, such as storm speed, latitude, current intensity, potential intensity, wind shear magnitude, and direction of the shear vector, are shown to be related to the error of an individual model forecast. The varying success of each model in the different environmental conditions represents a source of additional information on the reliability of an individual forecast beyond average forecast error.

Three hurricane intensity models that were operational for the duration of the five hurricane seasons between 2006 and 2010, as well as the National Hurricane Center official forecast (OFCL), are evaluated for 24-, 48-, and 72-h forecasts in the Atlantic Ocean. The performance of each model is assessed by computing the mean absolute error, bias, and percent skill relative to a benchmark model. The synoptic variables are binned into physically meaningful ranges and then tested individually and in combinations to capture the different regimes that are conducive to forecasts with higher or lower error. The results address conventional wisdom about which environmental conditions lead to better forecasts of hurricane intensity and highlight the different strengths of each model. The statistical significance established between the different bins in each model as well as the corresponding bins for other models indicates there is the potential for error predictions to accompany tropical cyclone intensity forecasts.
Teaching/Preaching the Theology of Lamentations
Authors: Queen-Sutherland Kandy
Published: March 2013

The cries of Lamentations are desperate, wailing up from the darkest side of human existence. They will not be silenced. Lament harasses those who oppress and calls all to justice—even God.
ClariVein Mechanochemical Ablation
Authors: Mueller Richard L. , Raines Jeffrey K.
Published: March 2013

Objectives:

The 2 primary objectives of this publication are to provide a practical step-by-step procedure for the ClariVein system and a focused literature review of endovenous ablation.

Materials and Methods:

The ClariVein system is the first venous ablation technique to employ a hybrid (dual-injury) technique built into 1 catheter-based delivery system. Endomechanical abrasion is produced by the tip of the catheter’s rotating wire (mechanical component); and endovenous chemical ablation (EVCA) is via simultaneous injection of sclerosant over the rotating wire (chemical component). The author is an early adopter of this technique and via experience has developed a detailed step-by-step protocol.

Discussion:

To date, there have been 2 pivotal clinical studies published using the ClariVein system. These data are compared with the results using other methods of endovenous ablation.

Conclusions:

The ClariVein system is an exciting addition to the phlebologist’s toolbox and has the potential to become a first-line treatment.
A systems-based approach to analyse the host response in murine lung macrophages challenged with respiratory syncytial virus
Authors: Ravi Laxmi Iyer , Li Liang , Sutejo Richard , Chen Hui , Wong Pui San , Tan Boon Huan , Sugrue Richard J
Published: March 2013

Background

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is an important cause of lower respiratory tract infection in young children. The degree of disease severity is determined by the host response to infection. Lung macrophages play an important early role in the host response to infection and we have used a systems-based approach to examine the host response in RSV-infected lung-derived macrophage cells.

Results

Lung macrophage cells could be efficiently infected (>95%) with RSVin vitro, and the expression of several virus structural proteins could be detected. Although we failed to detect significant levels of virus particle production, virus antigen could be detected up until 96 hours post-infection (hpi). Microarray analysis indicated that 20,086 annotated genes were expressed in the macrophage cells, and RSV infection induced an 8.9% and 11.3% change in the global gene transcriptome at 4 hpi and 24 hpi respectively. Genes showing up-regulated expression were more numerous and exhibited higher changes in expression compared to genes showing down-regulated expression. Based on gene ontology, genes with cytokine, antiviral, cell death, and signal transduction functions showed the highest increases in expression, while signalling transduction, RNA binding and protein kinase genes showed the greatest reduction in expression levels. Analysis of the global gene expression profile using pathway enrichment analysis confirmed that up-regulated expression of pathways related to pathogen recognition, interferon signalling and antigen presentation occurred in the lung macrophage cells challenged with RSV.

Conclusion

Our data provided a comprehensive analysis of RSV-induced gene expression changes in lung macrophages. Although virus gene expression was detected, our data was consistent with an abortive infection and this correlated with the activation of several antivirus signalling pathways such as interferon type I signalling and cell death signalling. RSV infection induced a relatively large increase in pro-inflammatory cytokine expression, however the maintenance of this pro-inflammatory response was not dependent on the production of infectious virus particles. The sustained pro-inflammatory response even in the absence of a productive infection suggests that drugs that control the pro-inflammatory response may be useful in the treatment of patients with severe RSV infection.
Overexpression of the grapevine PGIP1 in tobacco results in compositional changes in the leaf arabinoxyloglucan network in the absence of fungal infection
Authors: Nguema-Ona Eric , Moore John P , Fagerström Alexandra D , Fangel Jonatan U , Willats William GT , Hugo Annatjie , Vivier Melané A
Published: March 2013

Background

Constitutive expression of Vitis vinifera polygalacturonase-inhibiting protein 1 (Vvpgip1) has been shown to protect tobacco plants against Botrytis cinerea. Evidence points to additional roles for VvPGIP1, beyond the classical endopolygalacturonase (ePG) inhibition mechanism, in providing protection against fungal infection. Gene expression and biochemical datasets previously obtained, in the absence of infection, point to the cell wall, and particularly the xyloglucan component of transgenic VvPGIP1 lines as playing a role in fungal resistance.

Results

To elucidate the role of wall-associated processes in PGIP-derived resistance pre-infection, a wall profiling analysis, using high-throughput and fractionation techniques, was performed on healthy leaves from wild-type and previously characterized transgenic lines. The cell wall structure profile during development was found to be altered in the transgenic lines assessed versus the wild-type plants. Immunoprofiling revealed subtle changes in pectin and cellulose components and marked changes in the hemicellulose matrix, which showed reduced binding in transgenic leaves of VvPGIP1 expressing plants. Using an enzymatic xyloglucan oligosaccharide fingerprinting technique optimized for tobacco arabinoxyloglucans, we showed that polysaccharides of the XEG-soluble domain were modified in relative abundance for certain oligosaccharide components, although no differences in ion profiles were evident between wild-type and transgenic plants. These changes did not significantly influence plant morphology or normal growth processes compared to wild-type lines.

Conclusions

VvPGIP1 overexpression therefore results in cell wall remodeling and reorganization of the cellulose-xyloglucan network in tobacco in advance of potential infection.