bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of the Northwestern Pacific Summer Climate Simulated by AMIP II AGCMs
Authors: Zhang Minghong , Li Shuanglin , Lu Jian , Wu Renguang
Published: April 2012

This study examines the skills in simulating interannual variability of northwestern Pacific (NWP) summer climate in 12 atmospheric general circulation models (AGCMs) attending the Atmospheric Model Intercomparison Project phase 2 (AMIP II). The models show a wide range of skills, among those version 1 of the Hadley Centre Global Atmosphere Model (HadGAM1) showed the highest fidelity and thus may be a better choice for studying East Asian–NWP summer climate. To understand the possible causes for the difference among the models, five models {HadGAM1; ECHAM5; the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory Atmosphere Model, version 2.1 (AM2.1); Model for Interdisciplinary Research on Climate 3.2, high-resolution version [MIROC3.2(hires)]; and the fourth-generation National Center for Atmospheric Research Community Atmosphere Model (CAM3)} that have various skill levels, ranging from the highest to the moderate to the minor, were selected for analyses. The simulated teleconnection of NWP summer climate with sea surface temperatures (SSTs) in the tropical Indian and Pacific Oceans was first compared. HadGAM1 reproduces suppressed (intensified) rainfall during El Niño (La Niña) events and captures well the remote connection with the tropical Indian Ocean, while the other models either underestimate [ECHAM5, AM2.1, MIROC3.2(hires)] or fail to reproduce (CAM3) these teleconnections. The Walker cell and diabatic heating were further compared to shed light on the underlying physical mechanisms for the difference. Consistent with the best performance in simulating interannual rainfall, HadGAM1 exhibits the highest-level skill in capturing the observed climatology of the Walker cell and diabatic heating. These results highlight the key roles of the model’s background climatology in the Walker cell and diabatic heating, thus providing important clues to improving the model’s ability.
Estimates of Analysis and Forecast Error Variances Derived from the Adjoint of 4D-Var
Authors: Moore Andrew M. , Arango Hernan G. , Broquet Gregoire
Published: April 2012

A method is presented in which the adjoint of a four-dimensional variational data assimilation system (4D-Var) was used to compute the expected analysis and forecast error variances of linear functions of the ocean state vector. The power and utility of the approach are demonstrated using the Regional Ocean Modeling System configured for the California Current system. Linear functions of the ocean state vector were considered in the form of indices that characterize various aspects of the coastal upwelling circulation. It was found that for configurations of 4D-Var typically used in ocean models, reliable estimates of the expected analysis error variances can be obtained both for variables that are observed and unobserved. In addition, the contribution of uncertainties in the model control variables to the forecast error variance was also quantified. One particularly powerful and illuminating aspect of the adjoint 4D-Var approach to the forecast problem is that the contribution of individual observations to the predictability of the circulation can be readily computed. An important finding of the work presented here is that despite the plethora of available satellite observations, the relatively modest fraction of in situ subsurface observations sometimes exerts a significant influence on the predictability of the coastal ocean. Independent checks of the analysis and forecast error variances are also presented, which provide a direct test of the hypotheses that underpin the prior error and observation error estimates used during 4D-Var.
Relationships between Rain Characteristics and Environment. Part I: TRMM Precipitation Features and the Large-Scale Environment over the Tropical Pacific
Authors: Yokoyama Chie , Takayabu Yukari N.
Published: April 2012

Differences in the characteristics of rain systems in the eastern Pacific (EP) intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ) and the western Pacific (WP) warm pool are quantitatively examined in relation to the large-scale environment. This study mainly uses precipitation feature (PF) data observed by the precipitation radar (PR) on board the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM). The PFs are classified into four types according to their areas and maximum heights. Rain from tall unorganized systems and very tall organized systems tends to be dominant in high-SST regions such as the WP. On the other hand, the EP has more rain from congestus and organized systems with moderate heights than the WP. It is shown that shallow rain from congestus and moderately deep rain from organized systems are highly correlated with shallow (1000–925 hPa) convergence fields with coefficients of 0.75 and 0.66, respectively. These relationships between characteristics of rain systems and the large-scale environment are robust through all seasons.
Venting, joining and educating: Motivations for knowledge sharing in the UK police blogosphere
Authors: Burnett Simon , Pedersen Sarah , Smith Robert , O’Neill Anne
Published: April 2012

This article examines motivations for knowledge sharing in blogs written by police officers. It draws on the findings of a research project completed in 2011 based on content analysis of 63 blogs.
Expelling the Victim by Demanding Voice
Authors: Plaut Shayna
Published: April 2012

This article traces how Roma are crafting and changing their representation in the media and thus discursively moving from passive victims to active subjects by engaging in strategic framing and advocacy. I focus on public discussions of the French expulsion of Roma in the summer of 2010. The nature of the coverage and the engagement of Romani voices mark a shift away from the traditional trope of Roma as criminal, victim, or absent. This is part of a shifting process where Roma use media as a political tactic, even to mobilize transnationally as a subaltern counterpublic. This article demonstrates how the tactic of counterframing is employed within Romani and mainstream English-language media and how Roma engage in media activist strategies to shift the frame away from demands for Roma to prove their worth as humans to the need for members of the European Union to prove they are not engaged in systemic economic, political, and social human rights abuses.
Weight Loss in Exclusively Breastfed Infants Delivered by Cesarean Birth
Authors: Preer Genevieve L. , Newby P. K. , Philipp Barbara L.
Published: April 2012

Background: Rates of exclusive breastfeeding during the postpartum hospital stay are a key measure of quality maternity care. Often, however, concern for excessive in-hospital weight loss leads to formula supplementation of breastfed infants. The American Academy of Pediatrics defines 7% weight loss as acceptable for breastfed newborns regardless of mode of delivery. Typical weight loss in exclusively breastfed infants delivered by cesarean birth has not been studied nor have possible correlates of greater weight loss in this population.

Objectives: To determine average weight loss in a cohort of exclusively breastfed infants delivered by cesarean birth and to identify correlates of greater than expected weight loss.

Methods: We performed a retrospective chart review of exclusively breastfed infants delivered via cesarean birth at a Baby-Friendly hospital between 2005 and 2007. Average weight loss was calculated, and multivariate regression analysis was performed.

Results: Average weight loss during the hospital stay in our cohort of 200 infants was 7.2% ± 2.1% of birth weight, slightly greater than the American Academy of Pediatrics guideline of 7%.Absence of labor prior to delivery was significantly associated with a greater percentage of weight loss ( P = .0004), as were lower gestational age ( P = .0004) and higher birth weight ( P < .0001). Maternal age, gravity, parity, infant sex, Apgar scores, and prior cesarean birth were not significantly associated.

Conclusions: We conclude that for exclusively breastfed infants delivered by cesarean birth in a Baby-Friendly hospital, absence of labor prior to cesarean birth may be a previously unreported risk factor for greater than expected weight loss.
Blood Flow Characteristics of the Human Lactating Breast
Authors: Geddes Donna T. , Aljazaf Khalidah M. , Kent Jacqueline C. , Prime Danielle K. , Spatz Diane L. , Garbin Catherine P. , Lai Ching Tat , Hartmann Peter E.
Published: April 2012

Background: Despite the increased metabolic activity of the lactating breast, no studies have been carried out to determine mammary blood flow (MBF) parameters or the relationship between MBF and milk production in women. The aim of this study was to measure the MBF in the internal mammary artery (IMA) and lateral thoracic artery (LTA) of lactating women and determine if these were related to milk production.

Methods: Blood flow in the IMA and LTA was measured with color Doppler ultrasound in 55 lactating women. Twenty-four-hour milk production was determined with the test-weigh method.

Results: IMA contributed the greater proportion of blood flow to the lactating breast (70%). MBF was highly variable between women but consistent between the left (126 L/24 h; interquartile range, 76-169) and right (110 L/24 h) breasts. No relationship between MBF and milk production was demonstrated. For 3 women, MBF was markedly reduced in 1 breast that was synthesizing almost no milk compared to the other that was producing a normal volume of milk.

Discussion: Although no relationship between MBF and milk production was found, the substantial reduction in blood flow in the breasts of lactating women producing almost no milk suggests a threshold below which milk production is compromised.

Conclusion: Doppler ultrasound did not demonstrate a relationship between MBF and milk production in lactating women. Further investigation is required to fully understand the role of blood flow in milk synthesis.
The Economic Burden of Infant Formula on Families with Young Children in the Philippines
Authors: Sobel Howard L. , Iellamo Alessandro D. , Raya Rene R. , Padilla Alexander A. , Sta. Ana Filomeno S. , Nyunt-U Soe
Published: April 2012

Background: Infant formula usage places children at risk for illness and death. Studies in the United States demonstrated high economic burden, health care costs, and absenteeism of caregivers associated with formula usage. Despite high formula usage in developing countries, no economic studies were found. This study examines the financial burden of purchasing infant formula and increased health care expenditure in the Philippines, a developing country with a per capita income of $3930. The average exchange rate of the peso to the US dollar for 2003 was $1 to P52, according to Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

Methods: This is a secondary analysis of the 2003 Family Income and Expenditure Survey, a national cross-sectional multistage cluster survey of 42 094 households.

Results: Almost half of Philippine families with a young child and one-third of families living on less than $2 per day purchase formula. Nationally, $260 million was spent on infant formula in 2003. Formula-buying families with young children had spent an aggregate of $143.9 million on medical care compared to $56.6 million by non-formula-buying families. After adjusting for income and nonmilk family expenditures, the average formula-purchasing Philippine family spent an additional $0.30 (95% CI: 0.24 – 0.36; r2 = 0.08) on medical expenditure for every $1 spent on formula.

Conclusions: The economic burden from infant formula purchase and out-of-pocket medical expenditure exceeded $400 million in 2003. This cost was aside from other costs, such as absenteeism and the risk of childhood death and illness. These expenses caused an unnecessary burden on Filipino families and could instead have been invested in education and other social services.
Breastfeeding Protection, Promotion, and Support in the United States
Authors: Pérez-Escamilla Rafael , Chapman Donna J.
Published: April 2012

Background: Strong evidence-based advocacy efforts have now translated into high level political support and concrete goals for improving breastfeeding outcomes among women in the United States. In spite of this, major challenge remain for promoting, supporting and especially for protecting breastfeeding in the country.

Objectives: The goals of this commentary are to argue in favor of: A) Changes in the default social and environmental systems, that would allow women to implement their right to breastfeed their infants, B) A multi-level and comprehensive monitoring system to measure process and outcomes indicators in the country.

Methods: Evidence-based commentary.

Results: Breastfeeding rates in the United States can improve based on a well coordinated social marketing framework. This approach calls for innovative promotion through mass media, appropriate facility based and community based support (e.g., Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative, WIC-coordinated community based peer counseling), and adequate protection for working women (e.g., longer paid maternity leave, breastfeeding or breast milk extraction breaks during the working day) and women at large by adhering and enforcing the WHO ethics Code for the Marketing of Breast Milk Substitutes. Sound infant feeding practices monitoring systems, which include WIC administrative food package data, are needed.

Conclusions: Given the current high level of political support to improve breastfeeding in the United States, a window of opportunity has been opened. Establishing breastfeeding as the social norm in the USA will take time, but the global experience indicates that it can be done.
Association between Acculturation and Breastfeeding among Hispanic Women
Authors: Ahluwalia Indu B. , D’Angelo Denise , Morrow Brian , McDonald Jill A.
Published: April 2012

Background: Breastfeeding rates are typically higher among Hispanic women; however, they vary by acculturation status in that those more acculturated are less likely to breastfeed than those who are less acculturated. This study examined the association between acculturation and breastfeeding behaviors using population-based data.

Methods: Data (N = 8942) from the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) were used for analysis. Acculturation status was determined using self-reported Hispanic ethnicity and the language in which the women responded to the PRAMS survey, either English or Spanish. Hispanic women who responded to the survey in Spanish were categorized as less acculturated than those who responded in English. Breastfeeding indicators used were: initiation, duration to ≥ 10 weeks, and exclusive breastfeeding to ≥ 10 weeks.

Results: The prevalence rates of breastfeeding initiation, duration, and exclusive breastfeeding to ≥ 10 weeks were significantly higher among less acculturated than among highly acculturated. More acculturated were less likely to initiate breastfeeding (prevalence ratio [PR] = 0.88; 95% CI, 0.86-0.90), less likely to breastfeed ≥ 10 weeks (PR = 0.77; 95% CI, 0.72-0.82), and less likely to report exclusive breastfeeding to ≥ 10 weeks (PR =,0.70; 95% CI, 0.58-0.85). The relationship between breastfeeding continuation and acculturation persisted after adjusting for covariates in that more acculturated were less likely to breastfeed to ≥ 10 weeks (adjusted prevalence ratio [APR] = 0.81; 95% CI, 0.75-0.87), as did the relationship between exclusivity and acculturation; more acculturated were less likely to report exclusive breastfeeding (APR = 0.69; 95% CI, 0.55-0.87).

Conclusions: Breastfeeding promotion efforts must include culturally/linguistically supportive services to assure that women are able to make optimal infant feeding decisions.
Distributed pedagogical leadership and generative dialogue in educational nodes
Authors: Jäppinen Aini-Kristiina , Sarja Anneli
Published: April 2012

The article presents practices of distributed pedagogical leadership and generative dialogue as a tool with which management and personnel can better operate in the increasingly turbulent world of education. Distributed pedagogical leadership includes common characteristics of a professional learning community when the educational actors intentionally share a common mission. There, all stakeholders take collective responsibility for students' learning. Generative dialogue is a way to negotiate in this realm in generating new knowledge and understanding. To introduce this process in practice, the article describes two Finnish learning environments where the stakeholders define, first, the critical nodes, paths and contents in students' individual learning paths in vocational education, and, second, presents examples of generative dialogue within distributed pedagogical leadership.
Myxobolus albi infection in cartilage of captive lumpfish (Cyclopterus lumpus)
Authors: Cavin Julie M. , Donahoe Shannon L. , Frasca Salvatore , Innis Charles J. , Kinsel Michael J. , Kurobe Tomofumi , Naples Lisa M. , Nyaoke Akinyi , Poll Caryn P. , Weber E. P. Scott
Published: April 2012

Myxobolus albi was diagnosed in the cartilage of captive lumpfish ( Cyclopterus lumpus) from 2 public aquaria. Eleven fish were affected, with the most common clinical signs being exophthalmos and grossly visible 1- to 2-mm white to tan scleral nodules. Myxozoan cysts were identified in the cartilage of the skull, branchial arch, sclera, vertebrae, tongue, all fin insertions, and the pectoral girdle. Cysts resulted in expansile, deforming, space-occupying lesions, resulting in exophthalmos but often lacking significant tissue damage or inflammation. Once cysts ruptured, free spores elicited a mild to marked inflammatory response. Spores measured 7.5 to 9.0 µm × 3.0 to 6.0 µm and contained 2 pyriform polar capsules oriented at one pole as well as occasional 1-µm-diameter basophilic nuclei. Identification was based on spore morphology together with polymerase chain reaction and sequence comparison of 18S ribosomal DNA. Isolates had 99% similarity to M. albi.
A rapid mismatch polymerase chain reaction assay to detect carriers of complex vertebral malformation in Holstein cattle
Authors: Wang Shuai , Hao Haisheng , Zhao Xueming , Zhu Huabin , Du Weihua , Wang Dong , Liu Yan , Qin Tong , Wang Zongli
Published: April 2012

Three Holstein sires were identified as complex vertebral malformation (CVM) carriers using the polymerase chain reaction–primer introduced restriction analysis (PCR-PIRA) method. Using the carriers as positive controls, the PCR mismatch amplification mutation assay (MAMA PCR) method was developed and validated by sequence analysis. With MAMA PCR, 154 Chinese Holstein sires were tested for CVM, among which 24 were confirmed to be CVM carriers. With DNA isolated from hair follicles, 10 daughters of one CVM-positive bull were detected, among which 7 were confirmed to be CVM carriers.
Intramedullary lumbosacral teratoma in a domestic ferret (Mustela putorius furo)
Authors: Keller Dominique L. , Schneider Lauren K. , Chamberlin Tamara , Ellison Michelle , Steinberg Howard
Published: April 2012

An 18-month-old, female, spayed domestic ferret ( Mustela putorius furo) was presented for progressive hind limb paresis of 1 week duration. The ferret was mentally appropriate but cachexic and ataxic with neurological deficits, which localized the lesion to the lumbosacral region. A depression in the lumbosacral spine was associated with discomfort on palpation. Results of whole body radiographs were consistent with an abnormal angle between vertebrae L6 and S1, which resulted in hyperflexion of the spine. The ferret was euthanized, and histopathological examination revealed an intramedullary lumbosacral teratoma effacing much of the spine in the region of the mass.
Assessing Accountability in a Post-Citizens United Era
Authors: Brooks Deborah Jordan , Murov Michael
Published: April 2012

Greatly increased advertising spending by independent groups represents one of the most dramatic recent changes in U.S. elections. This article moves forward our theoretical and empirical understanding of how the public responds to ads sponsored by candidates as compared to ads sponsored by unknown Super PACs and similar independent groups. In the theoretical section of the article, we establish why it is necessary to measure both backlash and ad persuasiveness to understand overall ad effectiveness and then we develop a series of hypotheses about the likely influence of ad sponsorship. In the empirical section, we undertake the first analysis to date of how the public responds to attack television ads sponsored by unknown independent groups. Using a large-N, geographically representative sample of U.S. adults, we conduct an experiment to assess how sponsorship influences ad effectiveness. We find that attack ads sponsored by unknown independent groups are more effective, on net, than ads sponsored by candidates.
Apolipoprotein E gene polymorphism: effects on plasma lipids and risk of type 2 diabetes and coronary artery disease
Authors: Chaudhary Rajesh , Likidlilid Atip , Peerapatdit Thavatchai , Tresukosol Damras , Srisuma Sorachai , Ratanamaneechat Suphachai , Sriratanasathavorn Charn
Published: April 2012

Background

The most common apolipoprotein E (apoE) gene polymorphism has been found to influence plasma lipid concentration and its correlation with coronary artery disease (CAD) has been extensively investigated in the last decade. It is, however, unclear whether apoE gene polymorphism is also associated with increased risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The knowledge of this study may provide the primary prevention for T2DM and CAD development before its initiation and progression. Therefore, this study was carried out to determine the association between apoE gene polymorphism and T2DM with and without CAD and its role in lipid metabolism.

Methods

The case-control study was carried out on a total of 451 samples including 149 normal control subjects, 155 subjects with T2DM, and 147 subjects with T2DM complicated with CAD. The apoE gene polymorphism was tested by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify the possible risks of T2DM and CAD.

Results

A significantly increased frequency of E3/E4 genotype was observed only in T2DM with CAD group (p = 0.0004), whereas the ε4 allele was significantly higher in both T2DM (p = 0.047) and T2DM with CAD (p = 0.009) as compared with controls. E3/E4 genotype was also the independent risk in developing CAD after adjusting with established risk factors with adjusted odds ratio (OR) 2.52 (95%CI 1.28-4.97, p = 0.008). The independent predictor of individuals carrying ε4 allele still remained significantly associated with both CAD (adjusted OR 2.32, 95%CI 1.17-4.61, p = 0.016) and T2DM (adjusted OR 2.04, 95%CI 1.07-3.86, p = 0.029). After simultaneously examining the joint association of E3/E4 genotype combined with either obesity or smoking the risk increased to approximately 5-fold in T2DM (adjusted OR 4.93, 95%CI 1.74-13.98, p = 0.003) and 10-fold in CAD (adjusted OR 10.48, 95%CI 3.56-30.79, p < 0.0001). The association between apoE genotypes on plasma lipid levels was compared between E3/E3 as a reference and E4-bearing genotypes. E4-bearing genotypes showed lower HDL-C and higher VLDL-C and TG, whereas other values of plasma lipid concentrations showed no significant difference.

Conclusions

These results indicate that ε4 allele has influence on lipid profiles and is associated with the development of both T2DM with and without CAD, and furthermore, it increased the risk among the subjects with obesity and/or smoking, the conditions associated with high oxidative stress.
Existence and multiplicity of positive solutions for a class of p ( x )-Kirchhoff type equations
Authors: Ma Ruyun , Dai Guowei , Gao Chenghua
Published: April 2012

In this article, we study the existence and multiplicity of positive solutions for the Neumann boundary value problems involving the p(x)-Kirchhoff of the form

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Using the sub-supersolution method and the variational method, under appropriate assumptions on f and M, we prove that there exists λ* > 0 such that the problem has at least two positive solutions if λ > λ*, at least one positive solution if λ = λ* and no positive solution if λ < λ*. To prove these results we establish a special strong comparison principle for the Neumann problem.

2000 Mathematical Subject Classification: 35D05; 35D10; 35J60.
Epidemiological, genetic and epigenetic aspects of the research on healthy ageing and longevity
Authors: Montesanto Alberto , Dato Serena , Bellizzi Dina , Rose Giuseppina , Passarino Giuseppe
Published: April 2012

Healthy ageing and longevity in humans result from a number of factors, including genetic background, favorable environmental and social factors and chance.

In this article we aimed to overview the research on the biological basis of human healthy ageing and longevity, discussing the role of epidemiological, genetic and epigenetic factors in the variation of quality of ageing and lifespan, including the most promising candidate genes investigated so far. Moreover, we reported the methodologies applied for their identification, discussing advantages and disadvantages of the different approaches and possible solutions that can be taken to overcome them. Finally, we illustrated the recent approaches to define healthy ageing and underlined the role that the emerging field of epigenetics is gaining in the search for the determinants of healthy ageing and longevity.
Visual categorisation of the arch index: a simplified measure of foot posture in older people
Authors: Menz Hylton B , Fotoohabadi Mohammad R , Wee Elin , Spink Martin J
Published: April 2012

Background

Foot posture is considered to be an important component of musculoskeletal assessment in clinical practice and research. However, many measurement approaches are not suitable for routine use as they are time‐consuming or require specialised equipment and/or clinical expertise. The objective of this study was therefore to develop and evaluate a simple visual tool for foot posture assessment based on the Arch Index (AI) that could be used in clinical and research settings.

Methods

Fully weightbearing footprints from 602 people aged 62 to 96 years were obtained using a carbon paper imprint material, and cut‐off AI scores dividing participants into three categories (high, normal and low) were determined using the central limit theorem (i.e. normal = +/− 1 standard deviation from the mean). A visual tool was then created using representative examples for the boundaries of each category. Two examiners were then asked to use the tool to independently grade the footprints of 60 participants (20 for each of the three categories, randomly presented), and then repeat the process two weeks later. Inter‐ and intra‐tester reliability was determined using Spearman's rho, percentage agreement and weighted kappa statistics. The validity of the examiner's assessments was evaluated by comparing their categorisations to the actual AI score using Spearman's rho and analysis of variance (ANOVA), and to the actual AI category using percentage agreement, Spearman's rho and weighted kappa.

Results

Inter‐ and intra‐tester reliability of the examiners was almost perfect (percentage agreement = 93 to 97%; Spearman's rho = 0.91 to 0.95, and weighted kappas = 0.85 to 0.93). Examiner's scores were strongly correlated with actual AI values (Spearman's rho = 0.91 to 0.94 and significant differences between all categories with ANOVA; p < 0.001) and AI categories (percentage agreement = 95 to 98%; Spearman's rho = 0.89 to 0.94, and weighted kappas = 0.87 to 0.94). There was a slight tendency for examiners to categorise participants as having higher arches than their AI scores indicated.

Conclusions

Foot posture can be quickly and reliably categorised as high, normal or low in older people using a simplified visual categorisation tool based on the AI.
Ratio of involved/uninvolved immunoglobulin quantification by Hevylite™ assay: clinical and prognostic impact in multiple myeloma
Authors: Koulieris Efstathios , Panayiotidis Panayiotis , Harding Stephen J , Kafasi Nikolitsa , Maltezas Dimitris , Bartzis Vassiliki , Tzenou Tatiana , Dimou Maria , Georgiou George , Mirbahai Ladan , Bradwell Arthur R , Kyrtsonis Marie-Christine
Published: April 2012

Background

HevyLite™ is a new, recently developed method that facilitates separate quantification of the kappa- and lambda-bounded amounts of a given immunoglobulin (Ig). Using this method, we measured intact immunoglobulin (heavy/light chain; HLC) IgG-kappa, IgG-lambda, IgA-kappa, IgA-lambda individually, as well as their deriving ratios (HLCR) in a series of IgG or IgA multiple myeloma (MM) patients, to investigate and assess the contribution of these tests to disease evaluation.

Patients and methods

HevyLite™ assays were used in sera from 130 healthy individuals (HI) and 103 MM patients, at time of diagnosis. In patients, the level of paraprotein was IgG in 78 (52 IgG-kappa, 26 IgG-lambda) and IgΑ in 25 (13 IgΑ-kappa, 12 IgΑ-lambda). Durie-Salmon and International Staging System stages were evenly distributed. Symptomatic patients (n = 77) received treatment while asymptomatic ones (n = 26) were followed. Patients' median follow-up was at 32.6 months. HLCR was calculated with the involved Ig (either G or A) as numerator.

Results

In HI, median IgG-kappa was 6.85, IgG-lambda 3.81, IgA-kappa 1.19 and IgA-lambda 0.98 g/L. The corresponding median involving HLC values in MM patients were 25.8, 23.45, 28.9 and 36.4 g/L. HLC-IgG related to anemia, high serum free light chain ratio and extensive bone marrow infiltration, while high HLCR correlated with the same plus increased β2-microglobulin. In addition, increased HLCR and the presence of immunoparesis correlated with time to treatment. Patients with high HLCR had a significantly shorter survival (p = 0.022); HLCR retained its prognostic value in multivariate analysis.

Conclusions

HLC and HLCR quantify the precise amount of the involved immunoglobulin more accurately than other methods; moreover, they carry prognostic information regarding survival in MM patients.
High levels of RNA-editing site conservation amongst 15 laboratory mouse strains
Authors: Danecek Petr , Nellåker Christoffer , McIntyre Rebecca E , Buendia-Buendia Jorge E , Bumpstead Suzannah , Ponting Chris P , Flint Jonathan , Durbin Richard , Keane Thomas M , Adams David J
Published: April 2012

Background

Adenosine-to-inosine (A-to-I) editing is a site-selective post-transcriptional alteration of double-stranded RNA by ADAR deaminases that is crucial for homeostasis and development. Recently the Mouse Genomes Project generated genome sequences for 17 laboratory mouse strains and rich catalogues of variants. We also generated RNA-seq data from whole brain RNA from 15 of the sequenced strains.

Results

Here we present a computational approach that takes an initial set of transcriptome/genome mismatch sites and filters these calls taking into account systematic biases in alignment, single nucleotide variant calling, and sequencing depth to identify RNA editing sites with high accuracy. We applied this approach to our panel of mouse strain transcriptomes identifying 7,389 editing sites with an estimated false-discovery rate of between 2.9 and 10.5%. The overwhelming majority of these edits were of the A-to-I type, with less than 2.4% not of this class, and only three of these edits could not be explained as alignment artifacts. We validated 24 novel RNA editing sites in coding sequence, including two non-synonymous edits in the Cacna1d gene that fell into the IQ domain portion of the Cav1.2 voltage-gated calcium channel, indicating a potential role for editing in the generation of transcript diversity.

Conclusions

We show that despite over two million years of evolutionary divergence, the sites edited and the level of editing at each site is remarkably consistent across the 15 strains. In the Cds2 gene we find evidence for RNA editing acting to preserve the ancestral transcript sequence despite genomic sequence divergence.
Time-domain-induced polarization: Full-decay forward modeling and 1D laterally constrained inversion of Cole-Cole parameters
Authors: Fiandaca Gianluca , Auken Esben , Christiansen Anders Vest , Gazoty Aurélie
Published: April 2012

Time-domain-induced polarization has significantly broadened its field of reference during the last decade, from mineral exploration to environmental geophysics, e.g., for clay and peat identification and landfill characterization. Though, insufficient modeling tools have hitherto limited the use of time-domain-induced polarization for wider purposes. For these reasons, a new forward code and inversion algorithm have been developed using the full-time decay of the induced polarization response, together with an accurate description of the transmitter waveform and of the receiver transfer function, to reconstruct the distribution of the Cole-Cole parameters of the earth. The accurate modeling of the transmitter waveform had a strong influence on the forward response, and we showed that the difference between a solution using a step response and a solution using the accurate modeling often is above 100%. Furthermore, the presence of low-pass filters in time-domain-induced polarization instruments affects the early times of the acquired decays (typically up to 100 ms) and has to be modeled in the forward response to avoid significant loss of resolution. The developed forward code has been implemented in a 1D laterally constrained inversion algorithm that extracts the spectral content of the induced polarization phenomenon in terms of the Cole-Cole parameters. Synthetic examples and field examples from Denmark showed a significant improvement in the resolution of the parameters that control the induced polarization response when compared to traditional integral chargeability inversion. The quality of the inversion results has been assessed by a complete uncertainty analysis of the model parameters; furthermore, borehole information confirm the outcomes of the field interpretations. With this new accurate code in situ time-domain-induced polarization measurements give access to new applications in environmental and hydrogeophysical investigations, e.g., accurate landfill delineation or on the relation between Cole-Cole and hydraulic parameters.
A theoretical study on formation shear radial profiling in well-bonded cased boreholes using sonic dispersion data based on a parameterized perturbation model
Authors: Yang Jiaqi , Sinha Bikash K. , Habashy Tarek M.
Published: April 2012

Interpretation of sonic data can be challenging in the presence of a steel casing that has a strong influence on elastic waves propagating along a borehole. The cement annulus behind the casing together with drilling-induced near-wellbore alteration causes radial heterogeneity in the propagating medium. It is necessary to study the influence of such heterogeneities on borehole waves and estimate the radial extent of near-wellbore alteration in terms of radial variation of velocities away from the casing. To this end, we based our study on the model of a fluid-filled well-bonded cased borehole surrounded by a cylindrically layered formation. The formation is isotropic and purely elastic, and can be either fast or slow. Borehole monopole and dipole dispersions for this kind of model can be obtained from a root finding mode-search routine. A modified perturbation model based on Hamilton’s principle is used to predict changes in borehole dispersions caused by formation heterogeneities. A two-layer formation model as the reference state is introduced, which always provides normal dispersive reference dispersion for calculations of perturbation integrals for fast and slow formations. Radial variations of the formation shear velocity can be expressed in terms of a parametric exponential profile. Consequently, estimation of these parameters in the assumed profile yields the radial variation of the formation shear slowness away from the casing. Numerical results using synthetic examples are presented to demonstrate the validity of this radial profiling methodology.
Reflection characteristics of linear carbon dioxide transition layers
Authors: Gómez Julián L. , Ravazzoli Claudia L.
Published: April 2012

Seismic monitoring of underground [Formula: see text] accumulations is a subject of growing interest in applied geophysics. Due to their large impedance contrasts, attention is focused on accumulations of high [Formula: see text] saturation in most cases. However, low-saturation zones with dispersed carbon dioxide, or saturation transition layers, may have an important role in the propagation of waves within the reservoir, giving rise to amplitude and phase changes of the seismic signals. With this motivation, we studied the reflectivity response of a simple reservoir model with a given [Formula: see text] saturation-depth profile, on a theoretical basis. We investigated the influence of the overall saturation, vertical extent, and spatial fluid distribution of a carbon dioxide transition zone in the reflectivity of a reservoir. The parametric analysis entails the computation of the generalized P-wave reflection coefficient and its variations with ray angle (AVA) and frequency (AVF). The combined analysis of AVA and AVF can help to characterize and monitor [Formula: see text] transition layers within geological storage sites.
Fuzzy Reasoning
Authors: Bencivenga Ermanno
Published: April 2012

A logic is a doctrine of the logos, that is, of meaningful discourse; hence the first thing we expect from it is an account of what makes the logos meaningful — of what a meaning is. There is no single such doctrine or account: it is part of the immense richness of meaningful discourse that we can shift back and forth between several logics — several organized ways of reasoning, of providing reasons or grounds for our claims. Building on previous work on Hegel's dialectical logic, the author here identifies three distinct logics simultaneously in play in our conversations. Analytic logic structures its organization of discourse around negation, contraries, and hence arguments forcing a conclusion to follow (under threat of inconsistency) from some premises. Dialectical logic's main tool is the construction of narratives, hence the attempted incorporation of interlocutors within one's own story. The third option, here labeled gradual logic, sees sorites (which are recalcitrant anomalies for the analytic approach) as ideal cases, since the bleeding of a predicate into an alleged contrary points the way to reaching an agreement among initially conflicting parties: to them eventually coming to regard themselves as stressing different aspects of one and the same thing.
THE FUZZINESS OF “PAGANISM”
Authors: Jones Christopher P.
Published: April 2012

The subject of “the last pagans” or “the end of paganism” in the Greco-Roman world has interested scholars for over a century but begs the question “What is paganism?” Is the term usable as a tool of analysis? It originates from the Latin paganus, meaning “villager,” “rustic,” and reflects the way that Latin speakers viewed early Christianity as a phenomenon of the countryside, much as the English heathen, or German Heide, derives from a root meaning “heath.” Greek-speaking Christians, by contrast, used a variety of terms, but their favored one was Hellene, which reflected the perception that their main opposition came from Greeks who remained faithful to their traditional culture and beliefs. Hence paganism, when used by a modern author, is implicitly one-sided and also obscures the very real gap in perception between Greek speakers and Latin speakers of antiquity. Accordingly, some recent authors have tried to replace pagan with polytheist, but the latter term has the disadvantage that many pagans tended toward monotheism, or to a modified monotheism that regarded one god as vastly superior to all others (“henotheism”). Heathen is similar in being an insider's term, current when Christianity was the default position of religious discourse, and now largely obsolete. It is best to retain the word pagan but to concede that it is merely a pis aller.
Chemical Etching Route to Prepare Nanometer-size Spherical Titania–Octadecylamine Hybrid Particles
Authors: Shiba Kota , Ogawa Makoto
Published: April 2012

Spherical titania–octadecylamine hybrids (tens of nm to hundreds of nm) were obtained by the dissolution of presynthesized well-defined spherical particles with different size (70, 120, and 240 nm). The dissolution proceeds homogenously to give well-defined and size-controlled products when the reaction is conducted at room temperature in methanol.
Pd-complex-bound Amino Acid-based Supramolecular Gel Catalyst for Intramolecular Addition–Cyclization of Alkynoic Acids in Water
Authors: Ogata Kazuki , Sasano Daisuke , Yokoi Tomoya , Isozaki Katsuhiro , Seike Hirofumi , Takaya Hikaru , Nakamura Masaharu
Published: April 2012

An NCN-pincer Pd-complex-bound norvaline-based supramolecular gel showed efficient catalytic activities for the intramolecular addition–cyclization of alkynoic acid and phenol derivatives in water to afford the corresponding ene-lactones in good to excellent yields.
Biomechanical comparison of four methods of repair of the Achilles tendon
Authors: Ortiz C. , Wagner E. , Mocoçain P. , Labarca G. , Keller A. , Del Buono A. , Maffulli N.
Published: April 2012

We tested four types of surgical repair for load to failure and distraction in a bovine model of Achilles tendon repair. A total of 20 fresh bovine Achilles tendons were divided transversely 4 cm proximal to the calcaneal insertion and randomly repaired using the Dresden technique, a Krackow suture, a triple-strand Dresden technique or a modified oblique Dresden technique, all using a Fiberwire suture. Each tendon was loaded to failure. The force applied when a 5 mm gap was formed, peak load to failure, and mechanism of failure were recorded. The resistance to distraction was significantly greater for the triple technique (mean 246.1 N (205 to 309) to initial gapping) than for the Dresden (mean 180 N (152 to 208); p = 0.012) and the Krackow repairs (mean 101 N (78 to 112; p < 0.001). Peak load to failure was significantly greater for the triple-strand repair (mean 675 N (453 to 749)) than for the Dresden (mean 327.8 N (238 to 406); p < 0.001), Krackow (mean 223.6 N (210 to 252); p <  0.001) and oblique repairs (mean 437.2 N (372 to 526); p < 0.001). Failure of the tendon was the mechanism of failure for all specimens except for the tendons sutured using the Krackow technique, where the failure occurred at the knot.

The triple-strand technique significantly increased the tensile strength (p = 0.0001) and gap resistance (p = 0.01) of bovine tendon repairs, and might have advantages in human application for accelerated post-operative rehabilitation.
The double-mobility acetabular component in revision total hip replacement
Authors: Vasukutty N. L. , Middleton R. G. , Matthews E. C. , Young P. S. , Uzoigwe C. E. , Minhas T. H. A.
Published: April 2012

We present our experience with a double-mobility acetabular component in 155 consecutive revision total hip replacements in 149 patients undertaken between 2005 and 2009, with particular emphasis on the incidence of further dislocation. The mean age of the patients was 77 years (42 to 89) with 59 males and 90 females. In all, five patients died and seven were lost to follow-up. Indications for revision were aseptic loosening in 113 hips, recurrent instability in 29, peri-prosthetic fracture in 11 and sepsis in two. The mean follow-up was 42 months (18 to 68). Three hips (2%) in three patients dislocated within six weeks of surgery; one of these dislocated again after one year. All three were managed successfully with closed reduction. Two of the three dislocations occurred in patients who had undergone revision for recurrent dislocation. All three were found at revision to have abductor deficiency. There were no dislocations in those revised for either aseptic loosening or sepsis.

These results demonstrate a good mid-term outcome for this component. In the 29 patients revised for instability, only two had a further dislocation, both of which were managed by closed reduction.
Modic changes in the cervical spine
Authors: Matsumoto M. , Okada E. , Ichihara D. , Chiba K. , Toyama Y. , Fujiwara H. , Momoshima S. , Nishiwaki Y. , Takahata T.
Published: April 2012

We conducted a prospective follow-up MRI study of originally asymptomatic healthy subjects to clarify the development of Modic changes in the cervical spine over a ten-year period and to identify related factors. Previously, 497 asymptomatic healthy volunteers with no history of cervical trauma or surgery underwent MRI. Of these, 223 underwent a second MRI at a mean follow-up of 11.6 years (10 to 12.7). These 223 subjects comprised 133 men and 100 women with a mean age at second MRI of 50.5 years (23 to 83). Modic changes were classified as not present and types 1 to 3. Changes in Modic types over time and relationships between Modic changes and progression of degeneration of the disc or clinical symptoms were evaluated. A total of 31 subjects (13.9%) showed Modic changes at follow-up: type 1 in nine, type 2 in 18, type 3 in two, and types 1 and 2 in two. Modic changes at follow-up were significantly associated with numbness or pain in the arm, but not with neck pain or shoulder stiffness. Age (≥ 40 years), gender (male), and pre-existing disc degeneration were significantly associated with newly developed Modic changes.

In the cervical spine over a ten-year period, type 2 Modic changes developed most frequently. Newly developed Modic changes were significantly associated with age, gender, and pre-existing disc degeneration.
Causes and predictors of early re-admission after surgery for a fracture of the hip
Authors: Khan M. A. , Hossain F. S. , Dashti Z. , Muthukumar N.
Published: April 2012

The aim of this study was to examine the rates and potential risk factors for 28-day re-admission following a fracture of the hip at a high-volume tertiary care hospital. We retrospectively reviewed 467 consecutive patients with a fracture of the hip treated in the course of one year. Causes and risk factors for unplanned 28-day re-admissions were examined using univariate and multivariate analysis, including the difference in one-year mortality. A total of 55 patients (11.8%) were re-admitted within 28 days of discharge. The most common causes were pneumonia in 15 patients (27.3%), dehydration and renal dysfunction in ten (18.2%) and deteriorating mobility in ten (18.2%). A moderate correlation was found between chest infection during the initial admission and subsequent re-admission with pneumonia (r = 0.44, p < 0.001). A significantly higher mortality rate at one year was seen in the re-admission group (41.8% (23 of 55) vs 18.7% (77 of 412), p < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis identified advancing age, admission source, and the comorbidities of diabetes and neurological disorders as the strongest predictors for re-admission. Early re-admission following hip fracture surgery is predominantly due to medical causes and is associated with higher one-year mortality. The risk factors for re-admission can have implications for performance-based pay initiatives in the NHS. Multidisciplinary management in reducing post-operative active clinical problems may reduce early re-admission.