bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Naming blood groups and the genes that control them
Authors: Daniels G.
Published: February 2009

The International Society of Blood Transfusion Committee on Terminology for Red Cell Surface Antigens devised and now maintains a genetically based terminology and classification for blood groups. The committee currently recognises 308 antigens, 270 of which belong to one of 30 blood group systems. The widespread application of molecular genetical methods for predicting blood group phenotypes from genotypes has made the creation of a logical terminology for blood group genes (alleles) crucial. A small team currently working on a gene terminology suitable for routine application in transfusion medicine is planning to produce a draft early in 2009.
Quality approaches in cell therapy: patient and therapy‐related aspects
Authors: Pamphilon D. H.
Published: February 2009

Quality requirements for cell therapy programmes are those that involve regulation and licensing operating at a European and National level, for example, the EU Directive on Tissues and Cells, National Tissue Regulations and voluntary accreditation schemes usually associated with international organizations, for example, The Foundation for Accreditation of Cell Therapy–Joint Accreditation Committee of ISCT (Europe) and EBMT (FACT‐JACIE) and the World Marrow Donor Association (WMDA). Important aspects of patient and therapy‐related quality requirements are those for donors, including selection, evaluation and management. WMDA standards apply to unrelated donors, while, for example, in the UK the requirements of FACT‐JACIE and the Competent Authority – the Human Tissue Authority, are essential. Donors must give appropriate consent and be properly evaluated to assess their fitness to donate and to exclude any condition that might harm the recipients of their cells. Testing must include markers of infectious disease , human leucocyte antigen typing and ABO group. A significant proportion of unrelated donor cell therapy products are collected from donors in other countries, including those outside the EU and organizations, such as the Alliance for Harmonization of Cell Therapy Accreditation aim to achieve an international consensus on the requirements for donors and the donation process, working with the European Union authorities and other bodies. Essential aspects of patient quality include definition of a minimum programme size, specifications for in‐ and out‐patient facilities, access to appropriate supportive care, for example, intensive therapy units, provision of cytomegalovirus‐appropriate blood products and access to doctors in radiation oncology, respiratory medicine and other key specialities. The Quality Management Programme is central to every aspect of a cell therapy programme today. Essential features include training programmes, audit, reporting and review of severe adverse events, accidents and complaints. The FACT‐JACIE standards also define the requirements for therapy administration, including radiotherapy, clinical research and data management. The burden of inspection for cell therapy programmes is increasing but with the aim of improving quality and safety.
Combined intravitreal anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor (Avastin®) and photodynamic therapy to treat retinal juxtapapillary capillary haemangioma
Authors: Mennel Stefan , Meyer Carsten H. , Callizo Josep
Published: February 2009

Objective:  Retinal capillary haemangioma complications are characterized by progressive exudation with consecutive intraretinal and subretinal leakage. A successful therapy without side‐effects has not been found. We report a case of retinal juxtapapillary capillary haemangioma causing consecutive leakage with macular involvement. The tumour was treated with a combination of anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) and was followed for 1 year.

Methods:  A 44‐year‐old woman with retinal juxtapapillary capillary haemangioma in the right eye experienced a decrease of visual acuity from 20/20 to 20/60 because of a severe leakage from the tumour involving the macula with lipid depositions. Two sessions of PDT (sparing the part of the haemangioma located within the optic disc) and five injections of bevacizumab were applied in a period of 5 months. Visual acuity, visual field testing, retinal thickness measurements, fundus photography and fluorescein angiography were performed to evaluate the treatment effect.

Results:  One year after the last injection, visual acuity increased to 20/40. All lipid exudates at the posterior pole resolved. Retinal thickness decreased from 490 to 150 μm with the restoration of normal central macular architecture. Leakage in fluorescence angiography reduced significantly, but hyperfluorescence of the tumour was still evident. Visual field testing and angiography did not show any treatment‐related vaso‐occlusive side‐effects.

Conclusion:  In this single case, the combination of anti‐VEGF and PDT appeared to be an effective strategy for the treatment of retinal juxtapapillary capillary haemangioma without side‐effects. Further studies with a greater number of eyes and adequate follow‐up are necessary to support these first clinical results.
Des sites culturels submergés : l’Ouverture d’une capsule à remonter le temps
Authors: Nutley David
Published: February 2009

La mer, souvent perçue comme une grande destructrice, est aussi une grande préservatrice. Une fois sous l’eau, la culture matérielle a fréquemment bien plus de chance de survivre que sur terre. Cet article étudie la formation des sites du patrimoine culturel subaquatique, leur variété et leur importance, et le nouvel éclairage qu’ils projettent sur l’histoire de l’humanité.
Les dangers d’une exploitation commerciale du patrimoine culturel subaquatique
Authors: Zamora Tatiana Villegas
Published: February 2009

Il est impossible de parler du patrimoine culturel subaquatique sans réfléchir au problème de l’exploitation commerciale des sites archéologiques submergés. La notion romantique de quête d’un trésor perdu, telle qu’elle est présentée dans les livres ou les films populaires comme les aventures d’Indiana Jones, prend un autre aspect quand on songe que la chasse au trésor est devenue l’une des menaces les plus aiguës qui pèsent sur la protection du patrimoine culturel subaquatique. Les communautés de pêcheurs, les plongeurs sportifs irresponsables qui collectionnent les souvenirs, et les « sauveteurs » commerciaux d’aujourd’hui, souvent équipés de matériel très sophistiqué, détruisent ce riche patrimoine accessible depuis peu. Leur unique motivation est le profit commercial, sans égard pour la recherche archéologique, la préservation de biens ayant une valeur culturelle et historique, ou le potentiel en termes de développement durable d’un tourisme culturel qui bénéficierait aux populations côtières. Le présent article tentera de passer brièvement en revue l’ampleur des dégâts causés par l’exploitation commerciale des sites, la perte de données scientifiques qui en résulte et des stratégies utilisées pour convaincre les gouvernements et tromper l’opinion publique.

L’un des rêves les plus persistants de l’humanitéà travers les âges – juste après le désir de voler – a été d’explorer le fond des océans. Alexandre le Grand est supposé avoir été immergé dans une cage en verre et il existe des preuves indiquant que, dès 1683, des tentatives ont été faites pour atteindre les épaves de la célèbre Armada1 en Irlande à l’aide d’une cloche de plongée.
Préserver in situ : « l’option prioritaire »
Authors: Manders Martijn
Published: February 2009

Ces dernières années, l’accent a été mis sur la préférence à accorder à la préservation in situ du patrimoine culturel subaquatique, à l’intention des générations futures. Une telle option ne se fait‐elle pas au détriment du public ? Est‐il possible que celui‐ci puisse avoir accès à des sites préservés in situ ? Mais avant de se poser de telles questions, il faut comprendre ce que l’on entend par « in situ », ce que l’on préserve dans un tel environnement et quels sont les moyens d’une telle préservation, étant entendu que le public est curieux du patrimoine culturel subaquatique et de la manière dont il est protégé. Les musées ainsi que les nouvelles technologies ont un rôle important à jouer dans la transmission de l’information sur ce patrimoine au public le plus large.
Comment et en quoi la Convention de 2001 sera‐t‐elle bénéfique pour le patrimoine culturel subaquatique ?
Authors: Maarleveld Thijs J.
Published: February 2009

La Convention de 2001 est bénéfique au patrimoine culturel subaquatique de différentes manières : elle prend en compte les intérêts des sites et ceux des parties concernées et montre que ce patrimoine, certes fragile, est néanmoins gérable si sa conservation, son accès et sa mise en valeur répondent à des règles de bonne conduite professionnelle. Elle n’entend pas brider les initiatives raisonnées : elle favorise, au contraire, un terrain d’ententes – par le partage d’informations notamment – en soulignant que la protection de ce patrimoine est l’affaire de tous, puisqu’il appartient à l’humanité tout entière. D’ores et déjà, le texte de cet instrument juridique a influencé certaines décisions gouvernementales qui ne feront que s’élargir à d’autres États lorsque la Convention sera ratifiée et entrera en vigueur.
La préservation du patrimoine subaquatique brésilien : protection juridique et archéologie publique
Authors: Rambelli Gilson
Published: February 2009

L’archéologie subaquatique et la protection du patrimoine culturel subaquatique sont des sujets récents pour nombre d’États, et notamment dans les pays industrialisés où n’existe pas de législation spécifique, ou lorsque leur législation est favorable à l’exploitation commerciale de ce type de patrimoine. L’auteur présente un compte rendu de la situation complexe – les intérêts fluctuant au cours des ans – spécifique au Brésil. Il décrit le rôle important joué par les archéologues qui, malgré les obstacles et des ressources financières insuffisantes, ont œuvré pour sensibiliser le public et le milieu académique au fait que ce type de patrimoine doit obéir aux mêmes règles que le patrimoine matériel sur terre. C’est pourquoi le Centre ARCHEMAR a été créé récemment pour promouvoir le patrimoine culturel subaquatique via un programme muséal – réel ou virtuel.
Un patrimoine ressource pour le développement durable : le cas de la Croatie
Authors: Mesić Jasen
Published: February 2009

La Méditerranée a été, depuis des lustres, le témoin d’échanges commerciaux, de conflits politiques, de batailles navales ou de colonisations multiples qui ont forgé une histoire commune, que rappellent les vestiges qui reposent au fond de la mer Adriatique. La richesse de ce patrimoine culturel subaquatique est attestée par plus de 300 épaves gréco‐romaines répertoriées sous les eaux croates. Aujourd’hui, les milliers d’îles qui prolifèrent dans la région étant devenues une véritable attraction touristique, il est devenu primordial de protéger ce patrimoine culturel. La Croatie a su, de manière exemplaire, mettre en valeur le patrimoine subaquatique dont elle a la responsabilité en encadrant son accès au public, et ce dans l’optique d’un développement durable au profit de tous.
Beta‐2 Receptor Antagonists for Traumatic Brain Injury: A Systematic Review of Controlled Trials in Animal Models
Authors: Ker K. , Perel P. , Blackhall K.
Published: February 2009

A systematic review and meta‐analysis of controlled trials was undertaken to assess the effects of beta‐2 receptor antagonists in animal models of traumatic brain injury (TBI). Database and reference list searches were performed to identify eligible studies. Outcome data were extracted on functional status, as measured by the grip test or neurological severity score (NSS), and cerebral edema, as measured by brain water content (BWC). Data were pooled using the random‐effects model. Seventeen controlled trials involving 817 animals were identified. Overall methodological quality was poor. Results from the grip test suggest that the treatment group maintained grip for a longer period than the control group; pooled weighted mean difference (WMD) = 8.28 (95% CI 5.78–10.78). The treatment group was found to have a lower NSS (i.e., better neurological function); pooled WMD =−3.28 (95% CI −4.72 to −1.85). Analysis of the cerebral edema data showed that the treatment group had a lower BWC than the control; pooled WMD =−0.42 (95% CI −0.59 to −0.26). There was evidence of statistical heterogeneity between comparisons for all outcomes. Evidence for small study effects was found for the grip test and BWC outcomes. The evidence from animal models of TBI suggests that beta‐2 receptor antagonists can improve functional outcome and lessen cerebral edema. However, the poor methodological quality of the included studies and presence of small study effects may have influenced these findings.
Relaxation of Brownian particles in a gravitational field
Authors: Saka Halil , Bengtson Roger D. , Reichl Linda E.
Published: February 2009

We describe an upper level undergraduate experiment on the time-dependent behavior of a suspension of Brownian particles under gravitational attraction. We employed the Fokker-Planck equation in the strong friction limit and measured the time-evolution of the probability distribution for 1.0μm diameter latex Brownian particles in water at room temperature and pressure. The experiment provides evidence of the atomic nature of water.
Scattering of a nonuniform wave by a thin strip
Authors: Ferrari L. A.
Published: February 2009

The scattering of a nonuniform incident wave from a thin conducting cylindrical wire is analyzed. In addition to the usual destructive interference in the diffraction pattern, it is found that there is an additional position of destructive interference that lies close to the central beam axis, within the central diffraction peak. The location of this new point is in general agreement with results given by Ganci. The diffraction calculation by Ganci is extended to include larger values of the ratio of the strip width to beam diameter. The extended theory is found to be in excellent agreement with experiment.
Dynamics of a double pendulum with distributed mass
Authors: Rafat M. Z. , Wheatland M. S. , Bedding T. R.
Published: February 2009

We investigate a variation of the simple double pendulum in which the two point masses are replaced by square plates. The double square pendulum exhibits richer behavior than the simple double pendulum and provides a convenient demonstration of nonlinear dynamics and chaos. It is also an example of an asymmetric compound double pendulum, which has not been studied in detail. We obtain the equilibrium configurations and normal modes of oscillation and derive the equations of motion, which are solved numerically to produce Poincaré sections. We show how the behavior varies from regular motion at low energies, to chaos at intermediate energies, and back to regular motion at high energies. We also show that the onset of chaos occurs at a significantly lower energy than for the simple double pendulum.
Lunar Radar Sounder Observations of Subsurface Layers Under the Nearside Maria of the Moon
Authors: Ono Takayuki , Kumamoto Atsushi , Nakagawa Hiromu , Yamaguchi Yasushi , Oshigami Shoko , Yamaji Atsushi , Kobayashi Takao , Kasahara Yoshiya , Oya Hiroshi
Published: February 2009

Observations of the subsurface geology of the Moon help advance our understanding of lunar origin and evolution. Radar sounding from the Kaguya spacecraft has revealed subsurface layers at an apparent depth of several hundred meters in nearside maria. Comparison with the surface geology in the Serenitatis basin implies that the prominent echoes are probably from buried regolith layers accumulated during the depositional hiatus of mare basalts. The stratification indicates a tectonic quiescence between 3.55 and 2.84 billion years ago; mare ridges were formed subsequently. The basalts that accumulated during this quiet period have a total thickness of only a few hundred meters. These observations suggest that mascon loading did not produce the tectonics in Serenitatis after 3.55 billion years ago. Global cooling probably dominated the tectonics after 2.84 billion years ago.
An ABC Transporter Controls Export of a
Drosophila
Germ Cell Attractant
Authors: Ricardo Sara , Lehmann Ruth
Published: February 2009

Directed cell migration, which is critical for embryonic development, leukocyte trafficking, and cell metastasis, depends on chemoattraction. 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase regulates the production of an attractant for
Drosophila
germ cells that may itself be geranylated. Chemoattractants are commonly secreted through a classical, signal peptide–dependent pathway, but a geranyl-modified attractant would require an alternative pathway. In budding yeast, pheromones produced by a-cells are farnesylated and secreted in a signal peptide–independent manner, requiring the adenosine triphosphate–binding cassette (ABC) transporter Ste6p. Here we show that
Drosophila
germ cell migration uses a similar pathway, demonstrating that invertebrate germ cells, like yeast cells, are attracted to lipid-modified peptides. Components of this unconventional export pathway are highly conserved, suggesting that this pathway may control the production of similarly modified chemoattractants in organisms ranging from yeast to humans.
Response to Comment on "Dynamic Shifts of Limited Working Memory Resources in Human Vision"
Authors: Bays Paul M. , Husain Masud
Published: February 2009

Cowan and Rouder suggest that a modification to the four-slot model of visual working memory fits the available data better than our distributed resource model. However, their comparisons of statistical fit are biased in favor of the slot model. Here, we compare the predictions of the two models and present further evidence against the division of visual memory into slots.
Genome-Wide Analysis in Vivo of Translation with Nucleotide Resolution Using Ribosome Profiling
Authors: Ingolia Nicholas T. , Ghaemmaghami Sina , Newman John R. S. , Weissman Jonathan S.
Published: February 2009

Techniques for systematically monitoring protein translation have lagged far behind methods for measuring messenger RNA (mRNA) levels. Here, we present a ribosome-profiling strategy that is based on the deep sequencing of ribosome-protected mRNA fragments and enables genome-wide investigation of translation with subcodon resolution. We used this technique to monitor translation in budding yeast under both rich and starvation conditions. These studies defined the protein sequences being translated and found extensive translational control in both determining absolute protein abundance and responding to environmental stress. We also observed distinct phases during translation that involve a large decrease in ribosome density going from early to late peptide elongation as well as widespread regulated initiation at non–adenine-uracil-guanine (AUG) codons. Ribosome profiling is readily adaptable to other organisms, making high-precision investigation of protein translation experimentally accessible.
The quest for alternative routes to racemic and nonracemic azahelicene derivatives
Authors: Andronova Angelina , Szydlo Florence , Teplý Filip , Tobrmanová Miroslava , Volot Amandine , Stará Irena G. , Starý Ivo , Rulíšek Lubomír , Šaman David , Cvačka Josef , Fiedler Pavel , Vojtíšek Pavel
Published: February 2009

A series of diverse aromatic azadienetriyne and azatriynes was synthesised. These compounds were subjected to transition metal-mediated [2+2+2] cycloisomerisation to form pentacyclic or hexacyclic helically chiral azahelicene or azahelicene-like structures mostly in moderate yields. Introducing stereogenic centre(s) into selected azatriynes, cyclisation proceeded in a stereoselective fashion providing aza[5]helicenes or aza[6]helicene-like compounds in up to a 100:0 diastereomeric ratio. Gibbs energy differences between corresponding pairs of diastereomers (calculated at the DFT(B3LYP)/TZV+P level) were in good agreement with the experimental data and allowed for the prediction of the stereochemical outcome of the reaction. This study presents for the first time asymmetric synthesis of azahelicene derivatives in high optical purities.
Acute childhood leukaemia and residence next to petrol stations and automotive repair garages: the ESCALE study (SFCE)
Authors: Brosselin P , Rudant J , Orsi L , Leverger G , Baruchel A , Bertrand Y , Nelken B , Robert A , Michel G , Margueritte G , Perel Y , Mechinaud F , Bordigoni P , Hémon D , Clavel J
Published: February 2009

Background:

The association between acute childhood leukaemia and residing next to petrol stations and automotive repair garages was analysed in a national registry-based case–control study carried out in France in 2003–2004.

Methods:

Population controls were frequency matched with cases on age and gender. Data were collected by standardised telephone interview with the mothers. The latter were asked to report the proximity of their homes to petrol stations, automotive repair garages and other businesses from the conception of the index child to the diagnosis (for cases) or interview (for controls). Odds ratios were estimated using unconditional regression models adjusted for age, gender, number of children under 15 years of age in the household, degree of urbanisation and type of housing.

Results:

765 cases of acute leukaemia and 1681 controls were included. Acute leukaemia was significantly associated with residence next to petrol stations or automotive repair garages (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.2 to 2.2) and next to a petrol station (OR 1.9, 95% CI 1.2 to 3.0). The OR showed no tendency to increase with duration of exposure. The results were not modified by adjustment for potential confounding factors including urban/rural status and type of housing.

Conclusions:

The results support the findings of our previous study and suggest that living next to a petrol station may be associated with acute childhood leukaemia. The results also suggest that the role of low-level exposure to benzene in acute childhood leukaemia deserves further evaluation.
The Hamilton Bar Fauna: evidence for a Hypsithermal age
Authors: Churcher C. S. , Karrow P. F.
Published: February 2009

Bones of small vertebrates (mammals, birds, snakes, fish, amphibians) have been recovered from time to time from sites in postglacial sediments at Hamilton, Ontario, for over a century. One of these sites, at Westdale Ravine, was previously assigned a Glacial Lake Iroquois age (ca. 12 000 years BP), but is now considered compatible with environments during or since the Hypsithermal (last 5000 years). A corrected radiocarbon date of 4330 ± 210 years BP confirms such an age and indicates that the bones are younger than and intrusive within the Glacial Lake Iroquois sediments in which they were found.
Diversity and variation of theropod dinosaur teeth from the uppermost Santonian Milk River Formation (Upper Cretaceous), Alberta: a quantitative method supporting identification of the oldest dinosaur tooth assemblage in Canada
Authors: Larson Derek W.
Published: February 2009

The Santonian Deadhorse Coulee Member of the Milk River Formation preserves the oldest dinosaur body fossils found in Alberta. However, vertebrate remains consist almost exclusively of isolated elements and microvertebrate assemblages. Here, 1572 relatively complete shed non-avian theropod teeth from 20 localities in the Deadhorse Coulee Member are measured and analyzed to assess species diversity. Teeth are referred to or similar to Tyrannosaurinae indet., cf. Richardoestesia gilmorei , cf. Richardoestesia isosceles , Dromaeosauridae indet., Dromaeosaurinae indet., Velociraptorinae indet., and cf. Paronychodon lacustris . For the taxa identified, the large sample size allows for the assessment of their range of variation and accurate identification, without the benefit of comparable material of this age. Multivariate statistics, including a principal component analysis and a canonical variate analysis, provide reasonable separation of all taxa, although better results are achieved by separate analyses based on qualitative observations of denticle shape. The best results of the canonical variate analysis identified 96.0% of specimens correctly. This corroborates the qualitative identification of specimens and illustrates a valid way of evaluating diversity in areas and formations from which no described jaw material is known.
Fishing through (and up) Alaskan food webs
Authors: Litzow Michael A. , Urban Daniel
Published: February 2009

We used a 112-year time series of Alaskan fishery catches to test competing hypotheses concerning trends in mean catch trophic level, a widely used indicator of fisheries sustainability. We found that mean trophic level has generally remained steady or increased in recent decades on Alaska-wide and regional scales, indicating stable catches of high trophic level taxa. During historical periods of declining mean trophic level, catches of upper trophic level taxa either increased or remained steady, contrary to the predictions of the “fishing down the food web” hypothesis. Further, a climate index was highly correlated (r = 0.69–0.97) with mean trophic level and (or) the related fisheries in balance (FIB) index across climate regime shifts in the 1940s and 1970s, indicating that climate effects, particularly on high trophic level taxa, can act as the major driver of variability in these parameters. These results provide a contrast to the view of ubiquitous declines in mean trophic level of fishery catches, driven by overexploitation and serial stock replacement.
Performance of artificial neural networks and discriminant analysis in predicting fishing tactics from multispecific fisheries
Authors: Palmer Miquel , Quetglas Antoni , Guijarro Beatriz , Moranta Joan , Ordines Francesc , Massutí Enric
Published: February 2009

In the Mediterranean, bottom trawlers are multispecific and frequently apply different fishing tactics (FTs) even during the same fishing trip. Up to four individual FTs were distinguished in the study area where fishermen usually use mixtures of different FTs in daily fishing trips. Identifying the FTs actually performed is a key issue in traditional stock assessment methods. In this paper, we compare the performance of discriminant analysis and artificial neural networks for predicting FTs from the species composition of daily sale bills. We used data on the landings of each vessel from daily sale bills along with information on the FT actually performed, which was obtained by onboard observers who interviewed skippers about the FTs that they planned to employ. Discriminant analysis and artificial neural networks achieved comparable overall results and the success of predictions depended on both the sample size of the different data subsets (balancing) and the similarity between the species composition of different FTs (overlapping). Although the percentage of correct predictions was high for FTs with more than 25 cases, success decreased when the sample sizes were small. In addition, success in predicting mixtures of two different FTs increased with increasing dissimilarity between their corresponding species compositions.
Climate and intraspecific competition control the growth and life history of juvenile sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka) in Iliamna Lake, Alaska
Authors: Rich, Harry B. , Quinn Thomas P. , Scheuerell Mark D. , Schindler Daniel E.
Published: February 2009

Recent climate changes have had marked effects on the ice-free season and thermal conditions in many high-latitude lakes, but their ecological effects combine with density-dependent processes to affect fish growth and life history. To better understand the relative roles of climate and intraspecific density, we applied Gaussian state–space models to long-term data (1962–2006) on growth of juvenile sockeye salmon ( Oncorhynchus nerka ) in Iliamna Lake, Alaska, USA. Both temperature and density influenced fry size at the end of their first growing season, but the positive effect of temperature exceeded the negative effects of density. Fry growth was affected by the magnitude of their own cohort more strongly than by the previous brood (i.e., yearlings). In contrast, density was more important than temperature in Lake Aleknagik, also in Bristol Bay, over the same period of record, probably because Iliamna Lake is cooler and has generally lower densities of juvenile sockeye salmon than Lake Aleknagik. In both lakes, the size of the fish at the end of the first growing season affects smolt size and age at seaward migration, hence survival at sea and age at maturity, so the relative effects of climate and density depend on the ecological context.
Searching for threshold shifts in spawner–recruit data
Authors: Garvey James E. , Wright Russell A. , Marschall Elizabeth A.
Published: February 2009

Relationships between spawning fish (S) and surviving offspring (recruits, R) are typically assumed to be continuous and nonlinear. However, R may change abruptly with small changes in S if population-, community-, or ecosystem-scale processes trigger low adult reproduction and cause populations to shift abruptly to regimes of low recruitment. We simulated R with low mean and variation below a known S threshold and high mean and variation of R above it. We compared simulations with published S–R relationships. For all data, we fit a conventional Ricker-type S–R model, a logistic depensatory model, and also searched for an S breakpoint with a nonparametric test. The Ricker and logistic models often fit discontinuous simulated data. The nonparametric test found the S threshold in simulated data, although its accuracy depended on underlying distributions. The Ricker and logistic models and the nonparametric test identified apparent relationships within published data, sharing common results in <50% of the data sets. Although population models often assume continuous relationships, discontinuous threshold changes in R with small changes in S may occur. Identification of the conditions that reproductive state changes abruptly in fish populations may be necessary to develop risk-averse regulatory policies.
Pre- and post-cyclic behavior of mixed clayey soils
Authors: Soroush Abbas , Soltani-Jigheh Hossein
Published: February 2009

Soil structures are often comprised or supported by soils that are mixtures of cohesive and granular geomaterials. These soils are termed as intermediate or mixed soils and are widely found in natural deposits and man-made soil structures. The objective of this paper is to study the behavior of mixed clayey soils under monotonic, cyclic, and post-cyclic monotonic loading, with the main focus on the last of these three. For this purpose, a number of strain-controlled monotonic, cyclic, and post-cyclic triaxial compression tests were carried out on “clay–sand” and “clay–gravel” mixtures in undrained conditions. The effects of sand (or gravel) contents, number of cycles, cyclic strain amplitude, consolidation pressure, and grain size on the mechanical behavior of the mixtures are evaluated. The major findings from the laboratory study are: (i) the addition of granular materials to the clayey soils increases excess pore-water pressure during strain-controlled monotonic undrained shearing and cyclic loading and (ii) during post-cyclic monotonic shearing, mixed clayey soils behave similarly to overconsolidated soils; the higher the granular material is, the higher the overconsolidation ratio would be. Based on the research results, an algorithm for estimating post-cyclic mechanical parameters of mixed clayey soils, without conducting cyclic and post-cyclic tests, is suggested.
Physical modelling of the push-over capacity of a jack-up structure on sand in a geotechnical centrifuge
Authors: Bienen B. , Cassidy M. J. , Gaudin C.
Published: February 2009

Offshore jack-up drilling rigs are subjected to loading from wind, waves, and current in addition to their self-weight. This applies combined loading in all six degrees-of-freedom in space on the footings. Although the foundation–soil interaction is crucial to the overall response of a jack-up structure, current state-of-the-art models to predict jack-up footing behaviour, developed using data from single footing experiments, have not been validated for such multi-footing systems under general combined loading. This paper introduces the experimental development of a three-legged model jack-up and loading apparatus designed to investigate the rig’s response — in particular the footing load paths — under combined loading in three dimensions. Push-over experiments were performed in a geotechnical beam centrifuge on silica sand. Experimental results of two tests on dense sand are discussed, highlighting differences in response and mode of failure depending on the loading direction of the jack-up. The importance of three-dimensional modelling is also stressed by experimentally demonstrating that the symmetric load case is not necessarily conservative.
Determination of Some Frozen and Thawed Properties of Permafrost Soils
Authors: Watson G. H. , Slusarchuk W. A. , Rowley R. K.
Published: February 2009

Mackenzie Valley Pipe Line Research Limited has undertaken a significant amount of full-scale testing at its test site near Inuvik, N.W.T. Large diameter high ice content permafrost core samples were taken from this site to controlled laboratory conditions, and tested in both frozen and thawed states so that proposed predictive methods for pipeline performance could be evaluated.This paper describes procedures for sampling, sample transportation at controlled temperatures, and sample preparation in the laboratory. Methods for thaw-settlement and thaw-strength are also described. The results of these tests are presented and analyzed.
Evaluation of the Elasticity of Clay Soils
Authors: Elsamny Mohamed K.
Published: February 2009

A dynamic approach is used to evaluate the elasticity of clay soils. The experimental technique employed in the work is a modification of the Hopkinson pressure bar. Tests covering an appropriate range of stress levels were carried out on laboratory prepared specimens representing a variety of preconsolidation pressures. On the basis of the available information, using the Hopkinson bar technique, conclusions with regard to the relationship between the preconsolidation pressure of the soil tested and the elastic modulus for different rates of deformation are drawn. Also, the dynamic soil response of the soil tested and its relationship to the preconsolidation pressure are presented. A mathematical treatment of the relationship between the elastic modulus and the consolidation pressure is also presented which is verified experimentally using the pressure bar technique.
Making Rubber Membranes
Authors: Vaid Y. P. , Campanella R. G.
Published: February 2009

A simple procedure for making rubber membranes in the laboratory is described. The technique necessary in order to obtain good quality membranes of any shape and thickness in a single dip is outlined. Permeability tests indicate that practically leak-proof membranes can only be obtained after curing at elevated temperatures.
Long-term Uplift Capacity of Augered Footings in Fissured Clay
Authors: Radhakrishna H. S. , Adams J. I.
Published: February 2009

The uplift capacity of augered footings in fissured clay is found to decrease substantially under the long-term sustained loads due to the loss of suction and softening of clay along fissures. Full-scale uplift tests show that the reduction in uplift capacity under long-term loads may be as much as 50% for cylindrical footings and anywhere from 30 to 50% for belled footings depending on the depth of footing.
A mild and efficient chemoselective N-benzyloxycarbonylation of amines using TBAB as a catalyst under solvent-free conditions
Authors: Babu Kothamasu Suresh , Rao Vidadala Rama Subba , Rao Ravu Ranga , Babu Sakhamuri Sivaram , Rao Janaswami Madhusudana
Published: February 2009

We describe a mild and efficient method for the chemoselective N-benzyloxycarbonylation of amines by treatment of amines and aminoesters with benzyloxycarbonyl chloride (Cbz-Cl) in the presence of TBAB under solvent-free conditions in excellent yields. The method is general for the preparation of a wide variety of N-Cbz derivatives of aliphatic, aromatic amines, and aminoesters.
Photochemistry of 3-alkoxychromones I — Photocyclisation of 6-chloro-3-alkoxy-2-(furan-3-yl)-4H-chromen-4-ones
Authors: Kamboj Ramesh C. , Berar Urmila , Berar Surinder , Thakur Mandeep , Arora Rita , Gupta Satish C.
Published: February 2009

3-Alkoxy/allyloxy-6-chloro-2-(furan-3-yl)-4H-chromen-4-ones yield angular tetracyclic products involving the 2-furyl group on photoirradiation through the intermediacy of 1,4-biradicals. The nature of the 3-alkoxy/allyloxy group influenced the photoproduct distribution. The stereochemical dispositions of the products have been established using the J/Φ relationship and were corroborated by MM2 calculations.
STOCHASTIC MODELING OF SPT N-VALUE AND EVALUATION OF PROBABILITY OF LIQUEFACTION AT GUWAHATI CITY
Authors: RAGHU KANTH S. T. G. , DASH SUJIT KUMAR
Published: February 2009

Standard penetration test (SPT) reveals the spatial complexity of standard penetration resistance (N-value) with depth. In this paper, a 1D stochastic characterization of spatial complexity of N-values is developed by considering data obtained from sixty two boreholes in Guwahati City. The N-value profile is modeled as the sum of deterministic part and a stochastic component. The deterministic part which characterizes the non-stationary mean of the data is determined by linear regression analysis. The remaining error is modeled as a spatial random field. The characterization of error heterogeneity as a homogeneous Gaussian random field successfully captures the observed auto-correlation function. The proposed stochastic model is used to compute the probability of factor of safety against liquefaction by Monte-Carlo simulation. The results obtained are presented in form of fragility surfaces, expressing the probability of liquefaction as a function of magnitude of the earthquake and epicentral distance. It is observed that the probability of liquefaction at Guwahati city due to strong earthquakes occurring even at large distances is very high.
LIQUEFACTION AND PORE WATER PRESSURE GENERATION IN SAND — A CYCLIC STRAIN APPROACH
Authors: SITHARAM T. G. , RAVISHANKAR B. V. , VINOD J. S.
Published: February 2009

This paper presents the results of laboratory investigation carried out on Ahmedabad sand on the liquefaction and pore water pressure generation during strain controled cyclic loading. Laboratory experiments were carried out on representative natural sand samples (base sand) collected from earthquake-affected area of Ahmedabad City of Gujarat State in India. A series of strain controled cyclic triaxial tests were carried out on isotropically compressed samples to study the influence of different parameters such as shear strain amplitude, initial effective confining pressure, relative density and percentage of non-plastic fines on the behavior of liquefaction and pore water pressure generation. It has been observed from the laboratory investigation that the potential for liquefaction of the sandy soils depends on the shear strain amplitude, initial relative density, initial effective confining pressure and non-plastic fines. In addition, an empirical relationship between pore pressure ratio and cycle ratio independent of the number of cycles of loading, relative density, confining pressure, amplitude of shear strain and non-plastic fines has been proposed.
Aspirin-Sensitive Respiratory Disease
Authors: Farooque Sophie P. , Lee Tak H.
Published: February 2009

Aspirin-sensitive respiratory disease (ASRD) is a condition characterized by persistent and often severe inflammation of the upper and lower respiratory tracts. Patients develop chronic eosinophilic rhinosinusitis, nasal polyposis, and asthma. The ingestion of aspirin and other cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) inhibitors induces exacerbations of airway disease that may be life-threatening. Thus, aspirin sensitivity is a phenotypic marker for the syndrome, yet nearly all affected individuals can be desensitized by the administration of graded doses of aspirin, leading to long-term clinical benefits. Patients with aspirin sensitivity are often able to tolerate selective COX-2 inhibitors. The pathogenesis of ASRD is underpinned by abnormalities in eicosanoid biosynthesis and eicosanoid receptor expression coupled with intense mast cell and eosinophilic infiltration of the entire respiratory tract. This review focuses on the molecular, cellular, and biochemical abnormalities characterizing ASRD and highlights unanswered questions in the literature and potential future areas of investigation.
Polycystins and Primary Cilia: Primers for Cell Cycle Progression
Authors: Zhou Jing
Published: February 2009

Polycystins are a family of eight-transmembrane proteins united by sequence homology. The name stems from the identification of mutations in genes encoding polycystin-1 and -2 in polycystic kidney diseases. This review discusses recent topics in polycystin research, with a focus on the role of polycystin-1 and polycystin-2 in primary cilia and the cell cycle. Polycystins appear to play key roles during development, but a major question is their function in mature organs. Their roles in primary cilia, shear stress sensation, alteration of intracellular calcium, and planar cell polarity are examined. The third-hit hypothesis of polycystic kidney disease is discussed.
Signals Through Glycoprotein 130 Regulate the Endothelial Differentiation of Cardiac Stem Cells
Authors: Mohri Tomomi , Fujio Yasushi , Obana Masanori , Iwakura Tomohiko , Matsuda Koichi , Maeda Makiko , Azuma Junichi
Published: February 2009

Objective—

Cardiac Sca-1+ cells were originally identified as multipotent stem cells. To address the regulation of their differentiation, we investigated the effects of the proinflammatory cytokines on their endothelial differentiation.

Methods and Results—

We examined the effects of the proinflammatory cytokines including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-11, and cardiotrophin-1 (CT-1) on the cardiac Sca-1+ cell differentiation. IL-11 and CT-1, whose receptor systems use glycoprotein 130 (gp130), induced endothelial-specific genes in Sca-1+ cells, but not TNF-α, IL-1β, or IL-6, analyzed by RT-PCR and by immunocytochemistry. Immnunoblot analyses showed that IL-11 and CT-1 activated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), a downstream target of gp130, but not other cytokines. Though IL-6 receptor is not endogenously expressed in Sca-1+ cells, IL-6 exhibited the activity to induce the endothelial markers in the presence of soluble IL-6 receptor, an agonistic receptor, associated with STAT3 phosphorylation. Moreover, the inhibition of STAT3, by its dominant-negative form or siRNA, suppressed the induction of endothelial specific genes by IL-11 and CT-1. Finally, LIF and IL-11 transcripts were upregulated in postinfarct myocardium, accompanied by the induction of Sca-1+/VE-cadherin+ cells.

Conclusions—

Gp130/STAT3 pathway plays critical roles in the regulation of endothelial differentiation of cardiac Sca-1+ cells.
Phosphonoformic Acid Prevents Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Calcification by Inhibiting Calcium-Phosphate Deposition
Authors: Villa-Bellosta Ricardo , Sorribas Víctor
Published: February 2009

Objective—

The role of inorganic phosphate in the pathogenesis of vascular calcification (VC) has been studied extensively in recent years. Phosphonoformic acid (PFA), an inhibitor of type II Pi transporters, has been traditionally used to study the involvement of Pi transport in VC, because PFA also prevents calcium deposition in vitro. However, aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) only express PFA-resistant, type III transporters (Pit-1 and Pit-2). Therefore, in this article we have studied the mechanism of VC prevention by PFA.

Methods and Results—

Radiotracer Pi uptake in rat VSMCs was not inhibited at the concentrations at which PFA prevents calcification. Alternative mechanisms whereby PFA could prevent calcification, such as cytotoxicity or phosphodiesterase inhibition, have also been excluded. The progression of calcification also took place in fixed cells. The kinetics of VC prevention by PFA, pyrophosphate, phosphonoacetate, and bisphosphonates was similar in live and fixed cells, showing mean effective concentrations in the micromolar range.

Conclusions—

PFA mainly prevents VC through a physicochemical mechanism that is independent of any cellular metabolic activity, including Pi transport. Conversely, PFA seems to act similarly to its chemical analogues, inorganic pyrophosphate, and bisphosphonates, as suggested decades ago.
Quality of In-Hospital Stroke Care According to Evidence-Based Performance Measures
Authors: Abilleira Sònia , Gallofré Miquel , Ribera Aida , Sánchez Emília , Tresserras Ricard
Published: February 2009

Background and Purpose—

Evidence-based standards are used worldwide to determine quality of care. We assessed quality of in-hospital stroke care in all acute-care hospitals in Catalonia by determining adherence to 13 evidence-based performance measures (PMs) of process of care.

Methods—

Data on PMs were collected by retrospective review of medical records of consecutive stroke admissions (January to June, 2005). Compliance with PMs was calculated according to 3 hospital levels determined by their annual stroke case-load (level 1, <150 admissions/yr; level 2, 150 to 350; and level 3, >350). We defined sampling weights that represented each patient’s inverse probability of inclusion in the study sample. Sampling weights were applied to produce estimates of compliance. Factors that predicted good/bad compliance were determined by multivariate weighted logistic regression models. An external monitoring of 10% of cases recruited at each hospital was undertaken, after random selection, to assess quality of data.

Results—

We analyzed data from 1791 stroke cases (17% of all stroke admissions). Global interobserver agreement was 0.7. Eight PMs achieved compliances ≥75%, 4 of which were more than 90%, and the remaining showed adherences ≤62%. Analysis of compliance across hospital levels displayed some significant differences that persisted after multivariate analysis. We observed lower adherences to “early mobilization,” “assessment of rehabilitation needs,” and “prescription of anticoagulants for atrial fibrillation” in females and in the elderly.

Conclusions—

In 2005, in-hospital stroke care in Catalonia was heterogeneous across hospital levels. Rehabilitation-related measures showed poor compliances compared to acute care-related ones, which achieved more satisfactory adherences.
Road Surface Condition Forecasting in France
Authors: Bouilloud L. , Martin E. , Habets F. , Boone A. , Le Moigne P. , Livet J. , Marchetti M. , Foidart A. , Franchistéguy L. , Morel S. , Noilhan J. , Pettré P.
Published: February 2009

A numerical model designed to simulate the evolution of a snow layer on a road surface was forced by meteorological forecasts so as to assess its potential for use within an operational suite for road management in winter. The suite is intended for use throughout France, even in areas where no observations of surface conditions are available. It relies on short-term meteorological forecasts and long-term simulations of surface conditions using spatialized meteorological data to provide the initial conditions. The prediction of road surface conditions (road surface temperature and presence of snow on the road) was tested at an experimental site using data from a comprehensive experimental field campaign. The results were satisfactory, with detection of the majority of snow and negative road surface temperature events. The model was then extended to all of France with an 8-km grid resolution, using forcing data from a real-time meteorological analysis system. Many events with snow on the roads were simulated for the 2004/05 winter. Results for road surface temperature were checked against road station data from several highways, and results for the presence of snow on the road were checked against measurements from the Météo-France weather station network.