bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influences of Reduced Expression of Maternal Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2 on Mouse Embryonic Development
Authors: Singh A.P. , Castranio T. , Scott G. , Guo D. , Harris M.A. , Ray M. , Harris S.E. , Mishina Y.
Published: September 2008

Bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) was originally found by its osteoinductive ability, and recent genetic analyses have revealed that it plays critical roles during early embryogenesis, cardiogenesis, decidualization as well as skeletogenesis. In the course of evaluation of the conditional allele for Bmp2, we found that the presence of a neo cassette, a selection marker needed for gene targeting events in embryonic stem cells, in the 3′ untranslated region of exon 3 of Bmp2, reduced the expression levels of Bmp2 both in embryonic and maternal mouse tissues. Some of the embryos that were genotyped as transheterozygous for the floxed allele with the neo cassette over the conventional null allele (fn/–) showed a lethal phenotype including defects in cephalic neural tube closure and ventral abdominal wall closure. The number of embryos exhibiting these abnormalities was increased when, due to different genotypes, expression levels of Bmp2 in maternal tissues were lower. These results suggest that the expression levels of Bmp2 in both embryonic and maternal tissues influence the normal neural tube closure and body wall closure with different thresholds.
Take a Look at the CHIN! – Early Diagnosis of Isolated Agnathia Using Two- and Three-Dimensional Sonography
Authors: Huissoud Cyril , La Mela Jumel Anna , Bisch Christian , Dijoud Frédérique , Pages Odile , Rudigoz René-Charles
Published: September 2008

Agnathia is a very rare malformation characterized by the absence of the mandible, which occurs either as an isolated malformation or in association with other deformities. We report the first case of an isolated agnathia diagnosed at 12 weeks due to the absence of the chin; the case was diagnosed using two- and three-dimensional ultrasonography and was confirmed by pathological analysis after the pregnancy was medically terminated at 17 weeks. Usually, isolated agnathia is a lethal malformation and its prenatal diagnosis is often delayed beyond the second trimester of pregnancy. We therefore suggest a systematic ‘look at the CHIN’, i.e. Chin, Headbone outlines (skull and nasal bones), Inner head, Nuchal translucency, using the sagittal view of the cephalic pole at 12 weeks.
Prenatal Diagnosis of a 4q33–4qter Deletion in a Fetus with Hydrops
Authors: Russell Zoi , Kontopoulos Eftichia V. , Quintero Rubén A. , DeBauche David M. , Ranells Judith D.
Published: September 2008

Objective: The 4q– syndrome comprises all microscopically visible deletions of the long arm of chromosome 4. Cases with 4q deletions represent a diverse group that share several phenotypic characteristics. We report the prenatal diagnosis of an isolated terminal 4q33 deletion in a fetus with hydrops. Method: A comprehensive workup, including an amniocentesis, was performed on a 32-week fetus presenting with massive hydrops and polyhydramnios. Results: The karyotype obtained from the amniotic fluid showed an unusual banding pattern on chromosome 4q. Fluorescent in situ hybridization revealed a 4q33-qter deletion. The proband shared several of the phenotypic characteristics of the 4q– syndrome. Multidisciplinary evaluation of the newborn confirmed the genotype and failed to identify another cause for the hydrops. Conclusion: We suggest that the broad spectrum of phenotypes expressed by patients with terminal 4q33 deletions includes hydrops fetalis.
Transient Anhydramnios Associated with Spontaneous Membrane Rupture
Authors: Suzuki Shunji , Nagayama Chiaki
Published: September 2008

We present here a case of transient anhydramnios due to premature rupture of the membranes observed from 19 weeks’ gestation. At 27 weeks’ gestation, the amniotic fluid had increased due to spontaneous membrane sealing. At 32 weeks’ gestation, premature rupture of the membranes occurred again. A male fetus was delivered with birth weight 1,706 g. Although the infant was diagnosed as having dry lung syndrome, he is now a healthy 1-year-old boy.
Intrapartum Fetal Heart Rate Pattern in Oligohydramnios
Authors: Hasegawa Junichi , Matsuoka Ryu , Ichizuka Kiyotake , Kotani Mihoko , Ohmori Azumi , Nakamura Masamitsu , Sekizawa Akihiko , Okai Takashi
Published: September 2008

Objectives: It was the aim of this study to examine intrapartum fetal heart rate (FHR) patterns in oligohydramnios. Methods: Subjects comprised 24 singleton pregnant women diagnosed with oligohydramnios and 470 controls. FHR patterns were analyzed at the end of the first stage and throughout the whole second stage of labor. Numbers of variable deceleration (VD), early deceleration (ED), late deceleration (LD) and prolonged deceleration (PD) per contraction were counted. Results: Frequencies of decelerations in oligohydramnios and controls were 5.4 ± 14.5 and 2.0 ± 6.6% for ED, 0.0 and 0.4 ± 2.5% for LD, 17.6 ± 20.6 and 12.2 ± 13.3% for VD, and 1.8 ± 3.7 and 0.8 ± 3.0% for PD in the first stage of labor. In the second stage, frequencies were as follows: 5.1 ± 10.5 and 1.5 ± 6.1% for ED, 0.5 ± 1.7 and 1.0 ± 4.4% for LD, 30.1 ± 22.0 and 43.9 ± 29.3% for VD, and 29.3 ± 33.2 and 12.6 ± 22.5% for PD. Conclusions: In cases of oligohydramnios, ED occurred frequently from the first stage of labor. In the second stage of labor, the frequency of PD was extremely high and the frequency of VD was low.
Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia: 2D Lung Area and 3D Lung Volume Measurements of the Contralateral Lung to Predict Postnatal Outcome
Authors: Gerards F.A. , Twisk J.W.R. , Tibboel D. , van Vugt J.M.G.
Published: September 2008

Objectives: The aim of the study was to evaluate the prognostic utility of 2D lung area and 3D lung volume measurements of the contralateral lung in infants with congenital diaphragmatic hernia. Methods: At 18–37 weeks’ gestation between 1 and 5 scans of the contralateral fetal lung were obtained in 6 pregnancies complicated by congenital diaphragmatic hernia (5 left- and 1 right-sided). Lung volume measurements were compared with reference curves for gestational age and estimated fetal weight obtained from uncomplicated pregnancies. Lung area measurements were compared with reference nomograms. Results: Three infants survived and 3 died. Lung volume measurements versus gestational age were beneath the 5th percentile for the nonsurviving infants and within the normal ranges for the surviving infants. When comparing the observed/expected lung volume and lung area ratios of the first measurements with the ratios at the last visit before birth, the ratios of the infants who subsequently died decreased whereas the ratios of the infants who survived remained unchanged or increased. Conclusions: In the case of congenital diaphragmatic hernia, 3D lung volume measurements seem to be a good predictor of outcome but longitudinal measurement also provides important additional information. Larger studies are necessary to confirm these results.
Refractory Fetal Supraventricular Tachycardia and Obstetric Cholestasis
Authors: Shand Antonia W. , Dickinson Jan E. , D’Orsogna Luigi
Published: September 2008

Objective: Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is the most common form of sustained fetal tachyarrhythmia in pregnancy. The development of hydrops with SVT is associated with significant worsening of prognosis. Case: We report a case of fetal SVT with hydrops at 28 weeks’ gestation that required both transplacental and direct fetal treatment in a woman with concurrent obstetric cholestasis. Antiarrhythmic therapy and control of the maternal liver function and bile acid levels with ursodeoxycholic acid was associated with a fetal response to treatment resulting in a healthy term live birth. Conclusion: Fetal SVT and hydrops fetalis are associated with significant perinatal morbidity and mortality. Resistance to intensive antiarrhythmic therapies may be augmented by the myocardial effects of obstetric cholestasis and remains a challenge for management.
The Role of L- and T-Type Calcium Channels in Local and Remote Calcium Responses in Rat Mesenteric Terminal Arterioles
Authors: Braunstein Thomas Hartig , Inoue Ryuji , Cribbs Leanne , Oike Masahiro , Ito Yushi , Holstein-Rathlou Niels-Henrik , Jensen Lars Jørn
Published: September 2008

Background/Aims: The roles of intercellular communication and T-type versus L-type voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels (VDCCs) in conducted vasoconstriction to local KCl-induced depolarization were investigated in mesenteric arterioles. Methods: Ratiometric Ca2+ imaging (R) using Fura-PE3 with micro-ejection of depolarizing KCl solution and VDCC blockers, and immunohistochemical and RT-PCR techniques were applied to isolated rat mesenteric terminal arterioles (n = 71 from 47 rats; intraluminal diameter: 24 ± 1 μm; length: 550–700 μm). Results: Local application of KCl (at 0 μm) led to local (ΔR = 0.54) and remote (ΔR = 0.17 at 500 μm) increases in intracellular Ca2+. Remote Ca2+ responses were inhibited by the gap junction uncouplers carbenoxolone and palmitoleic acid. CaV1.2, CaV3.1 and CaV3.2 channels were immunolocalized in vascular smooth muscle cells and CaV3.2 in adjacent endothelial cells. Local and remote Ca2+ responses were inhibited by bath application of L- and T-type blockers [nifedipine, NNC 55-0396 and R(–)-efonidipine]. Remote Ca2+ responses (500 μm) were not affected by abolishing Ca2+ entry at an intermediate position on the arterioles (at 200–300 μm) using micro-application of VDCC blockers. Conclusion: Both L- and T-type channels mediate Ca2+ entry during conducted vasoconstriction to local KCl in mesenteric arterioles. However, these channels do not participate in the conduction process per se.
Anticancer Properties of 2-Piperidyl Analogues of the Natural Indole Phytoalexin 1-Methoxyspirobrassinol
Authors: Mezencev Roman , Kutschy Peter , Salayová Aneta , Čurillová Zuzana , Mojžiš Ján , Pilátová Martina , McDonald John
Published: September 2008

Background: Several indole phytoalexins exhibit antiproliferative and/or cancer chemopreventive properties in vitro. However, the potency and selectivity of their anticancer effects were reported to be relatively weak. In order to improve the anticancer activity of the natural phytoalexin 1-methoxyspirobrassinol, its new 2-amino analogues were synthesized and evaluated. Methods:Cis-1-Boc-, trans-1-Boc-, cis-1-methoxy- and trans-1-methoxy-2-deoxy-2-(1-piperidyl)spirobrassinols (compounds 4–7) were synthesized by spirocyclization reaction and their potency evaluated by SRB assay on the NCI60 panel of human cancer cells. The COMPARE program was employed to analyze patterns of activity of compounds 4–7 against the NCI60 panel for prediction of their probable targets and mode of action. Cellular glutathione, a predicted target, was quantified by DTNB assay. Results: Compounds 4–7 exhibit growth inhibitory effects across the NCI60 panel and, consistent with COMPARE prediction, a glutathione-depleting effect on MCF-7 cells. Conclusion: Considering their remarkable glutathione-depleting effects, compounds 4–7 could be developed as radio- and/or chemosensitizing agents for combination cancer chemotherapy.
Pharmacokinetic-Pharmacodynamic Target Attainment Analysis of Biapenem in Adult Patients: A Dosing Strategy
Authors: Ikawa Kazuro , Morikawa Norifumi , Ikeda Kayo , Ohge Hiroki , Sueda Taijiro , Suyama Hidemichi , Doi Masao , Kuwabara Masao
Published: September 2008

Background: A pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic (PK-PD) target attainment analysis to build a dosing strategy for biapenem in adult patients has not been conducted. Methods: A total of 321 plasma concentration samples from 68 adult patients (1–6 samples per patient) were assayed biologically and chromatographically, and used for a population PK modeling and Monte Carlo simulation to assess the probability of attaining the PK-PD target (40% of the time above the minimum inhibitory concentration). Results: The population PK model was based on the standard two-compartment model, and creatinine clearance (Clcr) was the most significant covariate that affected the drug clearance. The Monte Carlo simulation demonstrated that the dosages up to 600 mg Q12H (0.5-h infusions) achieved a PK-PD target attainment probability of ≧90%, which varied with Clcr of the patient and susceptibility of the tested bacterium; however, higher dosage with prolonged infusion time (600 mg Q8H, 3 h infusion) was required for a high probability against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Haemophilus influenzae isolates in the case of Clcr = 90 ml/min. Conclusion: These results provide guidance for constructing a PK-PD-based strategy for tailoring biapenem regimens in adult patients.
Predicting Long-Term Cognitive Outcome with New Regression Models in Donepezil-Treated Alzheimer Patients in a Naturalistic Setting
Authors: Wattmo Carina , Hansson Oskar , Wallin Åsa K. , Londos Elisabet , Minthon Lennart
Published: September 2008

Background/Aims: To build and analyze regression models predicting (1) the long-term cognitive outcome in donepezil-treated patients with Alzheimer’s disease, and (2) the short-term (6 months) cognitive impact of treatment depending on cognitive severity at baseline. Methods: The Swedish Alzheimer Treatment Study (SATS) is an open-label, non-randomized, 3-year, multicentre study in a routine clinical setting. A total of 435 patients, mostly in the mild and moderate stages of Alzheimer’s disease, received the cholinesterase inhibitor donepezil. They were assessed with the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale-cognitive subscale (ADAS-cog) at baseline and every 6 months for a total period of 3 years. Regression models were fitted from the actual scores at different intervals for the prediction of the cognitive outcome. Results: The ADAS-cog and MMSE scores during the 3-year treatment period could be predicted with a high degree of explanation using regression models (p < 0.001). Moreover, there was a significant relation between the mean cognitive change after 6 months of treatment and the baseline scores on MMSE (p < 0.01) and ADAS-cog (p < 0.001), respectively. Conclusion: Statistical models can be used to predict cognitive outcome in donepezil-treated cohorts of AD patients. These models can be clinically valuable, for example when assessing the efficacy of new therapies when added to cholinesterase inhibitor treatment.
Efficacy and Safety of Chinese Black Tea (Pu-Ehr) Extract in Healthy and Hypercholesterolemic Subjects
Authors: Fujita Hiroyuki , Yamagami Tomohide
Published: September 2008

Background/Aims: Water-extracted Chinese black tea (Pu-Ehr) exerts a precipitating effect on mixed bile salt micelles in foods. The amount of black tea extract (BTE) effective for hypercholesterolemia (HC) was examined in humans. Materials and Methods: Animals (test 1) and humans (tests 2–5) were given BTE in the following studies: (test 1) an acute 2-week toxicity test conducted in mice with 2,000 mg/kg BTE or saline; (test 2) a dose-finding 8-week toxicity study with excessive BTE ingestion (0.75 or 1 g/day) in 10 healthy and 10 borderline HC subjects; (test 3) a 1-day acute toxicity test using a (10 g) single-bolus study (n = 10); (test 4) a 5-week long-term safety test (5 g/day, n = 11), and (test 5) a 4-month noncomparative study in 21 HC patients ingesting 1 g/day. Results: The safety study showed no changes in hematological or relevant biochemical parameters in both mice and humans in the acute and long-term toxicity tests. In test 5, significant reductions in total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels accompanied by significant decreases in body weight were observed without affecting other biochemical parameters. Conclusions: BTE significantly reduced blood cholesterol levels in humans and may prove safe and useful in preventing and improving metabolic syndrome-induced arteriosclerosis and/or obesity.
Transcriptional Down-Regulation of Thromboxane A2 Receptor Expression via Activation of MAPK ERK1/2, p38/NF-κB Pathways
Authors: Zhang Wei , Zhang Yaping , Edvinsson Lars , Xu Cang-Bao
Published: September 2008

Background: We have developed an in vitro model by organ culture of rat mesenteric arteries to imitate vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) receptor changes in cardiovascular disease. By using this model, alteration of VSMC thromboxane A2 (TP) receptors was studied. Methods and Results:After organ culture of the arteries, VSMC TP receptors were studied by using myography, real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry. We observed that organ culture for 24 and 48 h resulted in depressed TP receptor-mediated contraction in the VSMC, in parallel with decreased TP receptor mRNA and protein expressions. Phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2 (ERK1/2), p38 and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) was seen by Western blot within 1–3 h after organ culture. Inhibition of ERK1/2, p38 or NF-κB reversed depressed contraction as well as decreased receptor mRNA expression. Actinomycin D abolished decreased TP receptor-mediated contraction, while inhibition of translation, cyclooxygenase or nitric oxide synthase had no effect. TP receptor mRNA stability was unchanged during organ culture. Conclusions:The present study has demonstrated for the first time that organ culture of rat mesenteric arteries down-regulates VSMC TP receptor expression through activation of ERK1/2 and p38/NF-κB signal pathways.
Glutamate Pyruvate Transaminase Null Allele (GPT°) in the Navajo
Authors: Crist M.C. , Heckenlively J.R. , Fiel L.L. , Sparkes M.C. , Farson C. , Spence M.A. , Sparkes R.S.
Published: September 2008

During genetic linkage studies of retinitis pigmentosa in a Navajo Amerindian family, an apparent null allele of erythrocyte GPT (GPT⁰) was observed in a man and 2 of his daughters. This is the fourth description of a (GPT⁰) allele, the first outside of Europe and the first in the Navajo.
DNA Restriction Polymorphism of a-fetoprotein Gene after Digestion by Mspl Endonuclease
Authors: Lavareda de Souza S. , Frain M. , Rahuel C. , Sala-Trépat J.M. , Lucotte G.
Published: September 2008

Hybridization of Α-fetoprotein clones cDNA with human DNAs digested by seven restriction endonucleases reveals one polymorphism. This polymorphism, detected after restriction by Mspl, is at low frequency (f = 0.02) and is validated by family analysis. It corresponds to an intronic sequence, for a methylated site external to the probes utilized.
EsD in Negro and Caucasian Populations: Is the EsD5 a ‘Caucasian Allele’?
Authors: Destro-Bisol Giovanni , Menchicchi Francesca , Ranalletta Dalila , Spedini Gabriella
Published: September 2008

A total of 461 individuals, belonging to some Subsaharan populations (Beti, Bateke and Babenga Pygmies of Congo; Goun and Nago of Benin; Mbugu and Sango of the Central African Republic), and a sample of 231 individuals of the population of Rome (Italy) have been typed for red cell esterase D using conventional electrophoresis and isoelectric focusing. The Subsaharan populations showed a high variability of the frequency of the EsD2 allele (0.018–0.138) and the absence of the EsD5 allele which, on the contrary, reached a polymorphic frequency (0.017) in the Italian sample. These results suggest that the EsD5 allele has a Caucasian origin.
Impact of In-Stent Minimal Lumen Area at 9 Months Poststent Implantation on 3-Year Target Lesion Revascularization–Free Survival
Authors: Doi Hiroshi , Maehara Akiko , Mintz Gary S. , Weissman Neil J. , Yu Alan , Wang Hong , Mandinov Lazar , Popma Jeffrey J. , Ellis Stephen G. , Grube Eberhard , Dawkins Keith D. , Stone Gregg W.
Published: September 2008

Background—

Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) is used to assess intermediate lesions in native coronary arteries; minimum lumen area (MLA) <4.0 mm
2
is accepted as a cutoff for a significant stenosis. We evaluated the IVUS in-stent MLA at 9-month follow-up that best predicted subsequent target lesion revascularization (TLR)–free survival in patients from the TAXUS IV, V, and VI studies.

Methods and Results—

In the combined TAXUS IV, V, and VI randomized trials, 9-month IVUS was available in 635 patients (331 treated with paclitaxel-eluting stents [PES] and 304 treated with bare-metal stents [BMS]) who did not require TLR in the first 9 months postintervention and who were followed for 3 years. The in-stent MLA that best predicted 3-year TLR-free survival was determined. At 9-months follow-up, IVUS-measured in-stent MLA was 5.7�2.3 mm
2
in the PES group and 4.8�2.3 mm
2
in the BMS group. Between 9 months and 3 years, TLR was required in 4.9% of patients who were treated with PES and 6.7% of patients who were treated with BMS. Multivariate analysis identified MLA at 9 months as a significant predictor of late TLR (hazard ratio, 0.63 [0.43–0.93];
P
=0.02). The ability of MLA to predict late TLR was further assessed using receiver operating characteristic analysis. MLA was found to be an acceptable discriminator for both PES (c=0.7448) and BMS (c=0.7329). Finally, the optimal thresholds of MLA that best predicted subsequent TLR-free survival were determined to be 4.2 mm
2
for PES and 4.0 mm
2
for BMS.

Conclusion—

In the combined IVUS analysis of TAXUS IV, V, and VI, patients who did not require TLR within the first 9 months had a high subsequent TLR-free survival rate whether treated with PES or BMS. MLA measured by IVUS at 9 months predicted subsequent TLR with a cutoff similar to intermediate, de novo lesions in native coronary arteries.
Contributions of Indian Ocean Sea Surface Temperatures to Enhanced East African Rainfall
Authors: Ummenhofer Caroline C. , Sen Gupta Alexander , England Matthew H. , Reason Chris J. C.
Published: September 2008

Links between extreme wet conditions over East Africa and Indian Ocean sea surface temperatures (SST) are investigated during the core of the so-called short rain season in October–November. During periods of enhanced East African rainfall, Indian Ocean SST anomalies reminiscent of a tropical Indian Ocean dipole (IOD) event are observed. Ensemble simulations with an atmospheric general circulation model are used to understand the relative effect of local and large-scale Indian Ocean SST anomalies on above-average East African precipitation. The importance of the various tropical and subtropical IOD SST poles, both individually and in combination, is quantified. In the simulations, enhanced East African “short rains” are predominantly driven by the local warm SST anomalies in the western equatorial Indian Ocean, while the eastern cold pole of the tropical IOD is of lesser importance. The changed East African rainfall distribution can be explained by a reorganization of the atmospheric circulation induced by the SST anomalies. A reduction in sea level pressure over the western half of the Indian Ocean and converging wind anomalies over East Africa lead to moisture convergence and increased convective activity over the region. The pattern of large-scale circulation changes over the tropical Indian Ocean and adjacent landmasses is consistent with an anomalous strengthening of the Walker cell. The seasonal cycle of various indices related to the SST and the atmospheric circulation in the equatorial Indian Ocean are examined to assess their potential usefulness for seasonal forecasting.
Freshwater Flux (FWF)-Induced Oceanic Feedback in a Hybrid Coupled Model of the Tropical Pacific
Authors: Zhang Rong-Hua , Busalacchi Antonio J.
Published: September 2008

The impacts of freshwater flux (FWF) forcing on interannual variability in the tropical Pacific climate system are investigated using a hybrid coupled model (HCM), constructed from an oceanic general circulation model (OGCM) and a simplified atmospheric model, whose forcing fields to the ocean consist of three components. Interannual anomalies of wind stress and precipitation minus evaporation, (P − E), are calculated respectively by their statistical feedback models that are constructed from a singular value decomposition (SVD) analysis of their historical data. Heat flux is calculated using an advective atmospheric mixed layer (AML) model. The constructed HCM can well reproduce interannual variability associated with ENSO in the tropical Pacific. HCM experiments are performed with varying strengths of anomalous FWF forcing. It is demonstrated that FWF can have a significant modulating impact on interannual variability. The buoyancy flux (QB) field, an important parameter determining the mixing and entrainment in the equatorial Pacific, is analyzed to illustrate the compensating role played by its two contributing parts: one is related to heat flux (QT) and the other to freshwater flux (QS). A positive feedback is identified between FWF and SST as follows: SST anomalies, generated by El Niño, nonlocally induce large anomalous FWF variability over the western and central regions, which directly influences sea surface salinity (SSS) and QB, leading to changes in the mixed layer depth (MLD), the upper-ocean stability, and the mixing and the entrainment of subsurface waters. These oceanic processes act to enhance the SST anomalies, which in turn feedback to the atmosphere in a coupled ocean–atmosphere system. As a result, taking into account anomalous FWF forcing in the HCM leads to an enhanced interannual variability and ENSO cycles. It is further shown that FWF forcing is playing a different role from heat flux forcing, with the former acting to drive a change in SST while the latter represents a passive response to the SST change. This HCM-based modeling study presents clear evidence for the role of FWF forcing in modulating interannual variability in the tropical Pacific. The significance and implications of these results are further discussed for physical understanding and model improvements of interannual variability in the tropical Pacific ocean–atmosphere system.
Forcing of Low-Frequency Ocean Variability in the Northeast Pacific*
Authors: Chhak Kettyah C. , Di Lorenzo Emanuele , Schneider Niklas , Cummins Patrick F.
Published: September 2008

An ocean model is used to examine and compare the forcing mechanisms and underlying ocean dynamics of two dominant modes of ocean variability in the northeast Pacific (NEP). The first mode is identified with the Pacific decadal oscillation (PDO) and accounts for the most variance in model sea surface temperatures (SSTs) and sea surface heights (SSHs). It is characterized by a monopole structure with a strong coherent signature along the coast. The second mode of variability is termed the North Pacific Gyre Oscillation (NPGO). This mode accounts for the most variance in sea surface salinities (SSSs) in the model and in long-term observations. While the NPGO is related to the second EOF of the North Pacific SST anomalies (the Victoria mode), it is defined here in terms of SSH anomalies. The NPGO is characterized by a pronounced dipole structure corresponding to variations in the strengths of the eastern and central branches of the subpolar and subtropical gyres in the North Pacific. It is found that the PDO and NPGO modes are each tied to a specific atmospheric forcing pattern. The PDO is related to the overlying Aleutian low, while the NPGO is forced by the North Pacific Oscillation. The above-mentioned climate modes captured in the model hindcast are reflected in satellite altimeter data.

A budget reconstruction is used to study how the atmospheric forcing drives the SST and SSH anomalies. Results show that the basinwide SST and SSS anomaly patterns associated with each mode are shaped primarily by anomalous horizontal advection of mean surface temperature and salinity gradients (∇ Tand ∇ S) via anomalous surface Ekman currents. This suggests a direct link of these modes with atmospheric forcing and the mean ocean circulation. Smaller-scale patterns in various locations along the coast and in the Gulf of Alaska are, however, not resolved with the budget reconstructions. Vertical profiles of the PDO and NPGO indicate that the modes are strongest mainly in the upper ocean down to 250 m. The shallowness of the modes, the depth of the mean mixed layer, and wintertime temperature profile inversions contribute to the sensitivity of the budget analysis in the regions of reduced reconstruction skill.
An Intercomparison and Validation of High-Resolution Satellite Precipitation Estimates with 3-Hourly Gauge Data
Authors: Sapiano M. R. P. , Arkin P. A.
Published: September 2008

The last several years have seen the development of a number of new satellite-derived, globally complete, high-resolution precipitation products with a spatial resolution of at least 0.25° and a temporal resolution of at least 3-hourly. These products generally merge geostationary infrared data and polar-orbiting passive microwave data to take advantage of the frequent sampling of the infrared and the superior quality of the microwave. The Program to Evaluate High Resolution Precipitation Products (PEHRPP) was established to evaluate and intercompare these datasets at a variety of spatial and temporal resolutions with the intent of guiding dataset developers and informing the user community regarding the error characteristics of the products. As part of this project, the authors have performed a subdaily intercomparison of five high-resolution datasets [Climate Prediction Center morphing (CMORPH) technique; Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission Multisatellite Precipitation Analysis (TMPA); Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) blended technique; National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service Hydro-Estimator; and Precipitation Estimation from Remotely Sensed Information using Artificial Neural Networks (PERSIANN)] with existing subdaily gauge data over the United States and the Pacific Ocean. Results show that these data are effective at representing high-resolution precipitation, with correlations against 3-hourly gauge data as high as 0.7 for CMORPH, which had the highest correlations with the validation data. Biases are relatively high for most of the datasets over land (apart from the TMPA, which is gauge adjusted) and ocean, with a general tendency to overestimate warm season rainfall over the United States and to underestimate rainfall over the tropical Pacific Ocean. Additionally, all the products studied faithfully resolve the diurnal cycle of precipitation when compared with the validation data.
Snowflake Size Spectra Retrieved from a UHF Vertical Profiler
Authors: Newman Andrew J. , Kucera Paul A. , Williams Christopher R. , Bliven Larry F.
Published: September 2008

This paper develops a technique for retrieving snowflake size distributions (SSDs) from a vertically pointing 915-MHz vertical profiler. Drop size distributions (DSDs) have been retrieved from 915-MHz profilers for several years using least squares minimization to determine the best-fit DSD to the observed Doppler spectra. This same premise is used to attempt the retrieval of SSDs. A nonlinear search, the Levenberg–Marquardt (LM) method, is used to search the physically realistic solution space and arrive at a best-fit SSD from the Doppler spectra of the profiler. The best fit is assumed to be the minimum of the squared difference of the log of the observed and modeled spectrum power over the precipitation portion of the spectrum. A snowflake video imager (SVI) disdrometer was collocated with the profiler and provided surface estimates of the SSDs. The SVI also provided estimates of crystal type, which is critical in attempting to estimate the density–size relationship. A method to vary the density–size relationship during the event was developed as well. This was necessary to correctly scale the SVI SSDs for comparison to the profiler-estimated distributions. Five events were examined for this study, and good overall agreement was found between the profiler and SVI for the lowest profiler gate (225 m AGL). Vertical profiles of SSDs were also produced and appear to be physically reasonable. Uncertainty estimates using simulated Doppler spectra show that the retrieval uncertainties are larger than that for rainfall and can approach and exceed 100% for situations with large spectral broadening as a result of atmospheric turbulence. The larger uncertainties are attributed to the lack of unique Doppler spectra for quite different SSDs, resulting in a less well-behaved solution space than that of rainfall retrievals.
A Cable-Borne Tram for Atmospheric Measurements along Transects
Authors: Oncley S. P. , Schwenz K. , Burns S. P. , Sun J. , Monson R. K.
Published: September 2008

A system to make atmospheric measurements from a moving trolley suspended by a stretched cable has been developed. At present, these measurements consist of wind velocity, temperature, humidity, and carbon dioxide concentration, though other sensors may be added. The track consists of cable segments attached to turns mounted on standard triangular towers. Using this approach, the path can be a closed (three dimensional) polygon of arbitrary length. This tool allows continuous, high spatial and temporal resolution sampling in environments, such as within forest canopies, not possible with other platforms. This system was used at the Niwot Ridge AmeriFlux site to obtain insight into the spatial and temporal structure of CO2, wind, and humidity fields in a natural forest ecosystem. Specifically, cool, moist, and CO2-rich air was observed to move in thin blobs downslope along the local water drainage through the subcanopy space at night.
Regional Differences in the Prediction of Extratropical Cyclones by the ECMWF Ensemble Prediction System
Authors: Froude Lizzie S. R.
Published: September 2008

A regional study of the prediction of extratropical cyclones by the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) Ensemble Prediction System (EPS) has been performed. An objective feature-tracking method has been used to identify and track the cyclones along the forecast trajectories. Forecast error statistics have then been produced for the position, intensity, and propagation speed of the storms. In previous work, data limitations meant it was only possible to present the diagnostics for the entire Northern Hemisphere (NH) or Southern Hemisphere. A larger data sample has allowed the diagnostics to be computed separately for smaller regions around the globe and has made it possible to explore the regional differences in the prediction of storms by the EPS. Results show that in the NH there is a larger ensemble mean error in the position of storms over the Atlantic Ocean. Further analysis revealed that this is mainly due to errors in the prediction of storm propagation speed rather than in direction. Forecast storms propagate too slowly in all regions, but the bias is about 2 times as large in the NH Atlantic region. The results show that storm intensity is generally overpredicted over the ocean and underpredicted over the land and that the absolute error in intensity is larger over the ocean than over the land. In the NH, large errors occur in the prediction of the intensity of storms that originate as tropical cyclones but then move into the extratropics. The ensemble is underdispersive for the intensity of cyclones (i.e., the spread is smaller than the mean error) in all regions. The spatial patterns of the ensemble mean error and ensemble spread are very different for the intensity of cyclones. Spatial distributions of the ensemble mean error suggest that large errors occur during the growth phase of storm development, but this is not indicated by the spatial distributions of the ensemble spread. In the NH there are further differences. First, the large errors in the prediction of the intensity of cyclones that originate in the tropics are not indicated by the spread. Second, the ensemble mean error is larger over the Pacific Ocean than over the Atlantic, whereas the opposite is true for the spread. The use of a storm-tracking approach, to both weather forecasters and developers of forecast systems, is also discussed.
Communication Between Key Stakeholders Within a Medical Home: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Nelson Catherine S. , Tandon S. Darius , Duggan Anne K. , Serwint Janet R.
Published: September 2008

The objective of this study was to determine perceived benefits, detriments, and barriers to communication between pediatric providers and home visitors. The authors performed a cross-sectional, qualitative study consisting of 3 focus groups with paraprofessional home visitors (n = 12), 6 with parents receiving home visiting (n = 33), and 4 with pediatric providers whose patients received home visiting (n = 19). Emerging themes were generated by an inductive analytic approach. Perceived benefits included home visitors assisting parents with communication, giving providers family information, and reinforcing providers' guidance. Detriments included parental concern of sharing confidential information and providers becoming aware of family issues for which they are unprepared to act. Barriers included parental consent, logistics of home visitor—provider communication, and providers' lack of knowledge about home visitor programs/roles. Greater coordination between home visitation programs and pediatric providers may strengthen home visiting services and reinforce advice and anticipatory guidance given by providers.
Constraint-Weighted a-Stratification for Computerized Adaptive Testing With Nonstatistical Constraints
Authors: Ying Cheng  , Chang Hua-Hua , Douglas Jeffrey , Fanmin Guo
Published: September 2008

a-stratification is a method that utilizes items with small discrimination (a) parameters early in an exam and those with higher a values when more is learned about the ability parameter. It can achieve much better item usage than the maximum information criterion (MIC). To make a-stratification more practical and more widely applicable, a method for weighting the item selection process in a-stratification as a means of satisfying multiple test constraints is proposed. This method is studied in simulation against an analogous method without stratification as well as a-stratification using descending-rather than ascending- a procedures. In addition, a variation of a-stratification that allows for unbalanced usage of a parameters is included in the study to examine the trade-off between efficiency and exposure control. Finally, MIC and randomized item selection are included as baseline measures. Results indicate that the weighting mechanism successfully addresses the constraints, that stratification helps to a great extent balancing exposure rates, and that the ascending- a design improves measurement precision.
Measurement of Test and Study Worry and Emotionality in College Students
Authors: Kieffer Kevin M. , Reese Robert J.
Published: September 2008

Test worry and emotionality can substantially affect student performance on examinations, and research has shown the deleterious effects of untreated test anxiety. A recently developed measure, the Test and Study Attitudes Inventory (TSAI), has shown promise in the measurement of both test and study related worry and emotionality. The purpose of the present study was to explore the psychometric characteristics of scores on the TSAI in a large sample (n = 1, 537) of college students. Results indicated good internal consistency reliability. Exploratory factor analysis of a smaller portion of the sample (n = 512) indicated a three-factor instrument structure, whereas confirmatory factor analysis with a larger portion of the sample (n = 1, 025) generally supported the four-factor solution posited by the test authors. Implications for use in educational settings are offered.
An Investigation of Calculator Use on Employment Tests of Mathematical Ability
Authors: Bing Mark N. , Stewart Susan M. , Davison H. Kristl
Published: September 2008

Handheld calculators have been used on the job for more than 30 years, yet the degree to which these devices can affect performance on employment tests of mathematical ability has not been thoroughly examined. This study used a within-subjects research design (N = 167) to investigate the effects of calculator use on test score reliability, test score validity, and test performance as well as the possible moderation of these effects across different types of tests, numbers, and arithmetic operations. Results indicate that total test scores maintained reliability and validity in the calculator condition regardless of test type. However, calculator use disrupted the measurement of mathematical skill when items were composed of integers and decimals, but not of fractions, and this disruption depended on the arithmetic operation required by the item. Nonetheless, the findings suggest that selection specialists may allow job applicants to use calculators on standardized math tests that have an adequate diversity of items without compromising the accuracy of the obtained total test scores.
Development of the Tempe Sorting Task
Authors: Marshall Seth J. , Wodrich David L. , Gorin Joanna S.
Published: September 2008

This study examined psychometric properties of the Tempe Sorting Task (TST), a new measure of executive function (EF) for children. To increase the meaningfulness of test score interpretations, an age-appropriate construct was employed to incorporate Denckla's description of EF. Multiple measures of EF, including the TST, were collected for children (N = 81). Interrater reliability estimates of the TST scores across trials were high. Split-half reliability estimates were slightly lower and varied across trials. Multiple significant correlations were observed between the TST, Expressive Attention task, and teacher Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) rating scales. Furthermore, statistically significant differences in TST scores between children with elevated versus normal-range ADHD ratings (dTrial1 = 1:49, dTrial2 = 0:86) provided some evidence of the discriminatory power of the TST. Overall, results provided some evidence supporting the interpretation of TST measures as indicators of children's EF. Advantages of the TST over existing children's EF measures are considered.
Multidimensional Rasch Analysis of a Psychological Test With Multiple Subtests
Authors: Cheng Ying-Yao , Wang Wen-Chung , Ho Yi-Hui
Published: September 2008

Educational and psychological tests are often composed of multiple short subtests, each measuring a distinct latent trait. Unfortunately, short subtests suffer from low measurement precision, which makes the bandwidth—fidelity dilemma inevitable. In this study, the authors demonstrate how a multidimensional Rasch analysis can be employed to take into account the information about the correlation between latent traits such that the precision of each subtest measure can be improved and the correlation between latent traits can be accurately estimated. A real data set of the 13-scale Thinking Styles Inventory was analyzed with the traditional unidimensional approach and the multidimensional approach. The results demonstrate that in contrast to the unidimensional approach, the multidimensional approach yields a much higher level of measurement precision and a more appropriate estimate for the correlation between thinking styles. In conclusion, even short subtests can yield highly precise measures such that the bandwidth—fidelity dilemma is resolved.
Increasing the Number of Replications in Item Response Theory Simulations
Authors: Gagné Phill , Furlow Carolyn , Ross Terris
Published: September 2008

In item response theory (IRT) simulation research, it is often necessary to use one software package for data generation and a second software package to conduct the IRT analysis. Because this can substantially slow down the simulation process, it is sometimes offered as a justification for using very few replications. This article provides researchers with simple Disk Operating System code that can be used through SAS to automate the process of data generation, analysis, and organization. By using these techniques, IRT simulation researchers can use a robust enough number of replications to be better able to generalize their findings.
Changes in Residents' Gambling Attitudes and Perceived Impacts at the Fifth Anniversary of Macao's Gaming Deregulation
Authors: Vong Fanny
Published: September 2008

This article follows on an earlier study conducted on Macao residents' gambling attitudes and behavior when the local gaming industry deregulated in 2002. The objective is to examine if gambling attitudes and behavior have changed in the lapse of five years as gaming becomes more accessible. Results show that the respondents in 2007 had developed a more conservative attitude toward gambling in general. The same trend was observed among players and nonplayers. Three factors of perceived gaming impacts were found to influence overall gambling attitude. It was also found that table and slot games had increased in popularity and were replacing the more common forms of gambling prior to 2002. Implications for education, well-being of the society, public policies, and tourism destination theories are discussed.
Some Critical Aspects of Measurement Theory and Practice in Travel Research
Authors: Ritchie J.R. Brent
Published: September 2008

Travel research is a field which is maturing rapidly into a systematic and cumulative body of knowledge. An important part of the maturing process for any science is the development or adaptation of consistent and well-tested measurement techniques and methodologies which are well-suited to the types of problems encountered in practice. This article attempts to contribute to a better understanding of the problems encountered in travel research with a view to improving theory and practice in the field. After giving a brief overview of the nature of behavioral and economic research in general, five types of factors which often create difficulties in travel research are identified. The discussion attempts to clarify the nature of the measurement problem related to each factor. The latter part of the paper suggests possible means of overcoming certain of the difficulties with which the author has had direct experience. A number of research priorities are identified for studying those remaining problem areas which appear to be less well understood.
What's Happening in the Cruise Industry
Authors: Santangelo Ronald A.
Published: September 2008

Trends in the cruise industry are discussed, as well as the industry's use of market research to target product offerings and seek out potential markets.
Changes in the Composition of Mexico's International Tourists, 1970-1980
Authors: Gibbons Jean Dickinson , Fish Mary
Published: September 2008

This article studies the significant changes in the composition of international visitors to Mexico during the 1970s. Factors examined are the importance of U.S. visitors relative to those from Europe, Canada, and Latin America; purpose of travel; and airborne versus overland arrivals. Suggestions are made as to how these changes should influence thegovernment's current policy decisions aimed at increasingforeign exchange from international tourism.
Seasonal Segmentation of the Tourism Market Using a Benefit Segmentation Framework
Authors: Calantone Roger J. , Johar Jotindar S.
Published: September 2008

This study reports an attempt to segment the travel market by showing how different factors influenced choice in different seasons. Results showed that benefits sought for each season differ, and people seeking a combination of benefits during one season may not be the same people seeking the same benefits during another season.
Tourism Strategy: A Campground Case Example
Authors: Ronkainen Ilkka A. , Woodside Arch G.
Published: September 2008

A survey of 316 travel parties who visited the Lake Arrowhead campground in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, revealed ways in which tourism research data can be used in planning for tourism strategy. A series of strategic and tactical questions are answered using response data, and specific recommendations as to courses of action are presented.