bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assignment of apolipoprotein H (APOH: beta-2-glycoprotein I) to human chromosome 17q23→qter; determination of the major expression site
Authors: Steinkasserer A. , Cockburn D.J. , Black D.M. , Boyd Y. , Solomon E. , Sim R.B.
Published: May 2008

Human apolipoprotein H (APOH) is associated with lipoprotein present in plasma. It has been shown that APOH has structural similarities with the regulation of complement activation (RCA) protein superfamily and is involved in phospholipid binding interactions on platelets and as an autoantigen in complex with anionic phospholipids. Nevertheless, additional functional studies are necessary to establish the physiological role of APOH. By hybridizing a cDNA probe for APOH to a panel of somatic cell hybrids, we show that the structural locus for this protein maps to 17q23→qter and is therefore not part of the RCA cluster on chromosome 1. The site of biosynthesis for APOH was established by Northern blot analysis. Hybridization of the APOH cDNA probe to total liver RNA identified a transcript of approximately 1.5 kb.
A highly differentiated ZZ/ZW sex chromosome system in a Characidae fish, Triportheus guentheri
Authors: Bertollo L.A.C. , Cavallaro Z.I.
Published: May 2008

Seventeen specimens of Triportheus guentheri, a fish of the family Characidae, were submitted to chromosomal analysis, with a highly differentiated heteromorphic ZW pair being detected. Chromosome W is much smaller than chromosome Z and mostly heterochromatic. Chromosome Z is the largest in the karyotype, with heterochromatin occurring in the telomeric and centromeric regions only. The W chromosome also varies somewhat in size, the variations being probably due to its long arm. In addition to two other autosomal pairs, chromosome Z shows also an occasional Ag-NOR. Aspects of the ZW system differentiation and of the NOR presence in chromosome Z are discussed. The Characidae family includes a great deal of neotropical freshwater fish species and Triportheus appears to represent the only genus in this family having sex chromosome differentiation at a cytological level.
Infertility in human males with autosomal translocations
Authors: Guichaoua M.R. , Speed R.M. , Luciani J.M. , Delafontaine D. , Chandley A.C.
Published: May 2008

The meiotic prophase behavior of three human reciprocal autosomal translocations is presented. Each translocation was ascertained among men attending an infertility clinic. Two involved chromosomes 3 and 5, with breakpoints in different places. Quadrivalents were seen in every cell. The third translocation was a rare t(11 q;15q) rearrangement in a 45-chromosome individual with tertiary monosomy. The long product of the translocation was retained in the karyotype over two generations of the family, the short product having been lost. At meiotic prophase, a trivalent was seen in every cell; in 60% of the nuclei, the short arm of the trivalent was closely associated with the XY bivalent. The transmission and phenotypic effects of tertiary monosomy in man and the mouse are discussed.
The c-src tyrosine kinase (CSK) gene, a potential antioncogene, localizes to human chromosome region 15q23→q25
Authors: Armstrong E. , Cannizzaro L. , Bergman M. , Huebner K. , Alitalo K.
Published: May 2008

We have previously reported the cloning of a novel cytoplasmic tyrosine kinase, CSK. This tyrosine kinase has been shown to downregulate the tyrosine kinase activity of the c-src oncoprotein through tyrosine phosphorylation of the c-src carboxyl terminus. Cell transformation by src oncoproteins is caused by several oncogenic mechanisms, which interfere with this phosphorylation. The CSK gene could therefore potentially function as an antioncogene. We have here mapped the CSK gene to 15q23→q25 by in situ hybridization.
Chromosome mapping of the human mitochondrial acetoacetyl-coenzyme A thiolase gene to 11q22.3→q23.1 by fluorescence in situ hybridization
Authors: Masuno M. , Kano M. , Fukao T. , Yamaguchi S. , Osumi T. , Hashimoto T. , Takahashi E. , Hori T. , Orii T.
Published: May 2008

A plasmid clone of an 8.2-kb EcoRl genomic fragment of the gene for human mitochondrial acetoacetyl-CoA thiolase (ACAT; E.C.2.3.1.9), containing exon 9 to exon 12, was utilized in a fluorescence in situ hybridization study to assign the ACAT locus to chromosome 11q22.3→q23.1.
Unusual heteromorphic bivalents in the common vole (Microtus arvalis) from Belorussia
Authors: Borodin P.M. , Rodionova M.I. , Sablina O.V. , Gorlov I.P.
Published: May 2008

Electron microscopic analysis was carried out on the synaptonemal complexes of 10 male common voles (Microtus arvalis) caught in 1990 in Belorussia. In the early pachytene stage of spermatocytes of four males, a heteromorphic bivalent has been found in one of five large autosomes. In the central region of the bivalent one of the lateral elements is in the form of a D-loop, characteristic of insertion/deletion heterozygotes. However, high-resolution G-band staining of mitotic chromosomes from fibroblasts shows no significant differences in the G-band pattern between homologs.
Genetic mapping and assignment of a long-range repeat cluster to band D of Chromosome 1 in Mus musculus and M. spretus
Authors: Traut W. , Seldin M.F. , Winking H.
Published: May 2008

A cluster (D1Lub1) of a long-range repeat family was mapped to the proximal part of the Giemsa-negative band D in Chromosome 1 of Mus musculus and M. spretus by in situ hybridization with cloned probes of the long-range repeat family. By making use of restriction fragment length polymorphisms in DNAs from interspecific backcross mice, the cluster could be mapped to a position 5.3 ± 2.1 cM distal to the Inha locus and the same distance proximal to the Bcl-2 locus. D1Lub1 was inseparable in 114 meiotic events from Acrg, Sag, and Akp-3. Taken together, the data may serve as a reference for coordinating the genetic and cytogenetic maps of Mus Chromosome 1. High-copy-number variants of the cluster, which appear cytogenetically as homogeneously staining regions at the same chromosome location, presumably arose by amplification of the long-range repeat family in situ.
Assignment of the chicken tyrosine hydroxylase gene to chromosome 6 by FISH
Authors: Dominguez-Steglich M. , Carrier A. , Auffray C. , Schmid M.
Published: May 2008

The gene for tyrosine hydroxylase, the first and rate-limiting enzyme in the biosynthetic pathway of catecholamine neurotransmitters, has been localized in situ to chromosome 6 in the chicken. It is the first DNA marker to be reported for this telocentric macrochromosome. Use of a 45-kb biotinylated chicken-specific cosmid probe and a sensitive fluorescent detection system proved to be highly efficient, with over 90% of metaphases showing positive hybridization signals on one or (usually) both chromosome 6 homologs, in physically mapping this single-gene locus.
Detection of small, single-copy genes on protein-G-banded chromosomes by electron microscopy
Authors: Fetni R. , Lemieux N. , Malfoy B. , Dutrillaux B. , Messier P.-E. , Richer C.-L.
Published: May 2008

A method for the detection by electron microscopy of chromosome banding after in situ hybridization of small, nonradioactive DNA sequences is described. Typical high-resolution G-banding is produced by adding 5-bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) during the last part of the S-phase and by applying a monoclonal antibody against the BrdU-substituted chromosome segments, followed by the addition of protein G, but no further treatment. A protocol for in situ hybridization of small, single-copy biotinylated DNA sequences and their detection by immunogold tagging on banded chromosomes is also described. This combined approach permits high-resolution mapping of small DNA sequences and should be useful in discriminating between neighboring DNA fragments.
Assignment of the human urokinase receptor gene (PLAUR) to 19q13
Authors: Vagnarelli P. , Raimondi E. , Mazzieri R. , De Carli L. , Mignatti P.
Published: May 2008

Through in situ hybridization of a cDNA probe to metaphase chromosomes, we localized the gene for the human urokinase receptor (PLAUR) on chromosome 19. RBG-banding permitted subchromosomal localization of the PLAUR gene to 19q13.
Sublocalization of an invasion-inducing locus and other genes on human chromosome 7
Authors: Habets G.G.M. , van der Kammen R.A. , Willemsen V. , Balemans M. , Wiegant J. , Collard J.G.
Published: May 2008

By somatic cell fusion studies between noninvasive mouse T-lymphoma cells and invasive human activated normal T-cells we have previously shown that the genetic information responsible for the induction of invasive and metastatic potential in interspecies T-cell hybrids is located on human chromosome 7. Apparently, genes derived from normal activated T-cells are dominantly expressed in the hybrids and control the invasive and, as a consequence, metastatic potential of these T-lymphoma cells. To sublocalize the invasion-inducing locus on chromosome 7 we have generated hybrids that harbor only specific regions of human chromosome 7 with or without a small fragment of human chromosome 21. Analysis of these hybrids revealed that the invasion-inducing locus maps to 7p12→cen. The human DNA complement of the hybrids was confirmed by Southern blot analysis using a large panel of chromosome 7-specific DNA probes. Several of these genes could be further sublocalized. These included: ARAF2 to 7p12→cen, D7S21 to 7pter→p12, ACTB to 7p15→p12, EGFR to 7p12, MDH2 to 7cen→q22, and PDGFA to 7pter→p15.
The human platelet-derived growth factor α chain (PDGFA) gene maps to chromosome 7p22
Authors: Stenman G. , Rorsman F. , Huebner K. , Betsholtz C.
Published: May 2008

The human PDGFA gene has been mapped previously to two different sites on chromosome 7 (7p21→p22 and 7q11.2→q21.1). Using in situ hybridization and human × mouse somatic cell hybrid lines we present data which confirm the localization of PDGFA to the terminal short arm of chromosome 7, at 7p22.
Assignment of the aspartylglucosaminidase gene (AGA) to 4q33→q35 based on decreased activity in a girl with a 46, XX, del(4)(q33) karyotype
Authors: Engelen J. , Hamers A. , Schrander-Stumpel C. , Mulder H. , Poorthuis B.
Published: May 2008

Aspartylglucosaminuria (AGU) is a recessive autosomally inherited lysosomal storage disorder due to deficiency of the enzyme aspartylglucosaminidase (AGA). The structural gene for this human enzyme (AGA) has been assigned to the region 4q21→qter. We determined the AGA activity in cultured fibroblasts of a girl with a 46, XX, del(4)(q33) karyotype. The results indicate that the girl is a hemizygote for AGA, permitting the assignment of human AGA to the region 4q33→qter.
Somatic cell mapping of the human cyclophilin B gene (PPIB) to chromosome 15
Authors: Peddada L.B. , McPherson J.D. , Law R. , Wasmuth J.J. , Youderian P. , Deans R.J.
Published: May 2008

The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique was used to generate a unique probe complementary to the hydrophobic 5’ end of the human cyclophilin B gene. This unique probe was hybridized to DNAs from human × hamster hybrid somatic cell lines retaining different combinations of human chromosomes. The gene was assigned to chromosome 15.
Assignment of the rat genes coding for substance P receptor, substance K receptor, and neuromedin K receptor to chromosomes 4, 20, and 2, respectively
Authors: Mori M. , Yokota Y. , Yasue M. , Serikawa T. , Yamada J.
Published: May 2008

Three tachykinin receptor genes: substance P receptor gene (gene symbol; TAC1R), substance K receptor gene (TAC2R), and neuromedin K receptor gene (TAC3R) have been assigned to rat chromosomes 4, 20, and 2, respectively, by using cDNAs for the rat TAC1R, TAC2R, and TAC3R genes and a rat × mouse somatic cell hybrid panel which segregated rat chromosomes.
Cytogenetics of bisexual/unisexual species of Poecilia
Authors: Sola L. , Iaselli V. , Rossi A.R. , Rasch E. M. , Monaco PJ.
Published: May 2008

Chromosomes of the Amazon molly, Poecilia formosa, a unisexual species of hybrid origin, were investigated by C-banding, silver staining, and fluorescent staining with DAPI, quinacrine dihydrochloride, and chromomycin A3. Analysis of heterochromatin distribution indicates that chromosomes similar to the W chromosome of P. latipinna are not present in the unisexual species. Therefore, morphologically differentiated sex chromosomes do not form the basis of the unisexuality in P. formosa. The number and location of nucleolar organizer regions vary in P. formosa and do not correlate well with those of the parental species.
A Linguistic Analysis of Discourse on the Killing of Nonhuman Animals
Authors: Jepson Jill
Published: May 2008

Human attitudes about killing nonhuman animals are complex, ambivalent, and contradictory. This study attempts to elucidate those attitudes through a linguistic analysis of the terms used to refer to the killing of animals. Whereas terms used for killing human beings are highly specific and differentiated on the basis of the motivation for the killing, the nature of the participants, and evaluative and emotional content, terms used for killing animals are vague and interchangeable. Terms for animal-killing often background aspects of the act, making it more palatable to humans. When a term is extended from use with humans to use with animals, it lends a connotation of compassion and mercy to the killing. When a term is extended from use with animals to use with humans, it gives the killing a connotation of brutality. These findings reflect assumptions about the human "right" to take animals' lives while serving to ameliorate the negative feelings such killings evoke.
The Theory of materia prima in Marsilio Ficino's Platonic Theology
Authors: Snyder James
Published: May 2008

This paper is an examination of the theory of materia prima of the fifteenth century Platonist Marsilio Ficino. It limits its discussion of Ficino's theory to the ontological and epistemic status of prime matter in his Platonic Theology. Ficino holds a "robust" theory of prime matter that makes two fundamental assertions: First, prime matter exists independent of form, and second, it is, at least in principle, intelligible. Ficino's theory of prime matter is framed in this paper with a discussion of the divergence among Scholastic philosophers over the nature of prime matter.
Paschal Politics: Deploying the Temple's Destruction against Fourth-Century Judaizers
Authors: Shepardson Christine
Published: May 2008

The fourth-century Syriac writings of Aphrahat and Ephrem, and Greek homilies by the Syrian John Chrysostom, warn Christian congregants against joining Jewish festival celebrations such as Passover. In light of the respected age of Judaism's scriptures and traditions, not all of these authors' church attendees were easily convinced by supersessionist claims about Judaism's invalidity. These authors surpass earlier Christian claims that the Temple's destruction revealed God's rejection of the Jews, by arguing that Jewish scripture requires ritual sacrifices that were confined to the Jerusalem Temple. us without the Temple sacrifices, fourth-century Jewish festivals, these authors claimed, defied God's biblical commands, a declaration with sharp implications for Judaizing Christians. Demonstrating the nuances of this argument, which crossed eastern linguistic and political boundaries, contributes to complex discussions regarding these texts' audiences, highlights distinctive elements that their contexts shared, and reveals an unrecognized role that the Temple's destruction played in fourth-century anti-Judaizing discourse.
Do Altimeter Wavenumber Spectra Agree with the Interior or Surface Quasigeostrophic Theory?
Authors: Le Traon P. Y. , Klein P. , Hua Bach Lien , Dibarboure G.
Published: May 2008

In high-eddy-energy regions, it is generally assumed that sea level wavenumber spectra compare well with quasigeostrophic (QG) turbulence models and that spectral slopes are close to the expected k−5 law. This issue is revisited here. Sea level wavenumber spectra in the Gulf Stream, Kuroshio, and Agulhas regions are estimated using the most recent altimeter datasets [the Ocean Topography Experiment (TOPEX)/Poseidon, Jason-1, the Environmental Satellite (Envisat), and the Geosat Follow-On]. The authors show that spectral slopes in the mesoscale band are significantly different from a k−5 law, in disagreement with the QG turbulence theory. However, they very closely follow a k−11/3 slope, which indicates that the surface quasigeostrophic theory (SQG) is a much better dynamical framework than the QG turbulence theory to describe the ocean surface dynamics. Because of the specific properties of the SQG theory, these results offer new perspectives for the analysis and interpretation of satellite data.
How Does Labrador Sea Water Enter the Deep Western Boundary Current?
Authors: Palter Jaime B. , Lozier M. Susan , Lavender Kara L.
Published: May 2008

Labrador Sea Water (LSW), a dense water mass formed by convection in the subpolar North Atlantic, is an important constituent of the meridional overturning circulation. Understanding how the water mass enters the deep western boundary current (DWBC), one of the primary pathways by which it exits the subpolar gyre, can shed light on the continuity between climate conditions in the formation region and their downstream signal. Using the trajectories of (profiling) autonomous Lagrangian circulation explorer [(P)ALACE] floats, operating between 1996 and 2002, three processes are evaluated for their role in the entry of Labrador Sea Water in the DWBC: 1) LSW is formed directly in the DWBC, 2) eddies flux LSW laterally from the interior Labrador Sea to the DWBC, and 3) a horizontally divergent mean flow advects LSW from the interior to the DWBC. A comparison of the heat flux associated with each of these three mechanisms suggests that all three contribute to the transformation of the boundary current as it transits the Labrador Sea. The formation of LSW directly in the DWBC and the eddy heat flux between the interior Labrador Sea and the DWBC may play leading roles in setting the interannual variability of the exported water mass.
Variability of Intraseasonal Kelvin Waves in the Equatorial Pacific Ocean
Authors: Shinoda Toshiaki , Roundy Paul E. , Kiladis George N.
Published: May 2008

Previous observational work has demonstrated that the phase speed of oceanic equatorial Kelvin waves forced by the Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO) appears to vary substantially. Processes that are responsible for systematic changes in the phase speed of these waves are examined using an ocean general circulation model. The model was integrated for 26 yr with daily wind stress derived from the NCEP–NCAR reanalysis. The model is able to reproduce observed systematic changes of Kelvin wave phase speed reasonably well, providing a tool for the analysis of their dynamics.

The relative importance of the upper ocean background state and atmospheric forcing for phase speed changes is determined based on a series of model experiments with various surface forcings. Systematic changes in phase speed are evident in all model experiments that have different slowly varying basic states, showing that variations of the upper ocean background state are not the primary cause of the changes. The model experiments that include and exclude intraseasonal components of wind stress in the eastern Pacific demonstrate that wind stress changes to the east of the date line can significantly alter the speed of Kelvin waves initially generated over the western Pacific, which often results in a phase propagation faster than the free wave speed. These faster waves contribute to the systematic changes of phase speed evident in observations. Similar results are also obtained using a linear stratified model, eliminating nonlinearity as a possible cause of the phase speed changes.
An Observational Estimate of Inferred Ocean Energy Divergence
Authors: Trenberth Kevin E. , Fasullo John T.
Published: May 2008

Monthly net surface energy fluxes (FS) over the oceans are computed as residuals of the atmospheric energy budget using top-of-atmosphere (TOA) net radiation (RT) and the complete atmospheric energy (AE) budget tendency (δAE/δt) and divergence (∇ · FA). The focus is on TOA radiation from the Earth Radiation Budget Experiment (ERBE) (February 1985–April 1989) and the Clouds and Earth’s Radiant Energy System (CERES) (March 2000–May 2004) satellite observations combined with results from two atmospheric reanalyses and three ocean datasets that enable a comprehensive estimate of uncertainties. Surface energy flux departures from the annual mean and the implied annual cycle in “equivalent ocean energy content” are compared with the directly observed ocean energy content (OE) and tendency (δOE/δt) to reveal the inferred annual cycle of divergence (∇ · FO). In the extratropics, the surface flux dominates the ocean energy tendency, although it is supplemented by ocean Ekman transports that enhance the annual cycle in ocean heat content. In contrast, in the tropics, ocean dynamics dominate OE variations throughout the year in association with the annual cycle in surface wind stress and the North Equatorial Current. An analysis of the regional characteristics of the first joint empirical orthogonal function (EOF) of FS, δOE/δt, and ∇ · FO is presented, and the largest sources of uncertainty are attributed to variations in OE. The mean and annual cycle of zonal mean global ocean meridional heat transports are estimated. The annual cycle reveals the strongest poleward heat transports in each hemisphere in the cold season, from November to April in the north and from May to October in the south, with a substantial across-equatorial transport, exceeding 4 PW in some months. Annual mean results do not differ greatly from some earlier estimates, but the sources of uncertainty are exposed. Comparison of annual means with direct ocean observations gives reasonable agreement, except in the North Atlantic, where transports from the ocean transects are slightly greater than the estimates presented here.
Improving Estimates of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current Streamlines in Drake Passage
Authors: Lenn Yueng-Djern , Chereskin Teresa K. , Sprintall Janet
Published: May 2008

Accurately resolving the mean Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC) is essential for determining Southern Ocean eddy fluxes that are important to the global meridional overturning circulation. Previous estimates of the mean ACC have been limited by the paucity of Southern Ocean observations. A new estimate of the mean surface ACC in Drake Passage is presented that combines sea surface height anomalies measured by satellite altimetry with a recent dataset of repeat high-resolution acoustic Doppler current profiler observations. A mean streamfunction (surface height field), objectively mapped from the mean currents, is used to validate two recent dynamic height climatologies. The new streamfunction has narrower and stronger ACC fronts separated by quiescent zones of much weaker flow, thereby improving on the resolution of ACC fronts observed in the other climatologies. Distinct streamlines can be associated with particular ACC fronts and tracked in time-dependent maps of dynamic height. This analysis shows that varying degrees of topographic control are evident in the preferred paths of the ACC fronts through Drake Passage.
Dynamics of Intraseasonal Sea Level and Thermocline Variability in the Equatorial Atlantic during 2002–03
Authors: Han Weiqing , Webster Peter J. , Lin Jia-Lin , Liu W. T. , Fu Rong , Yuan Dongliang , Hu Aixue
Published: May 2008

Satellite and in situ observations in the equatorial Atlantic Ocean during 2002–03 show dominant spectral peaks at 40–60 days and secondary peaks at 10–40 days in sea level and thermocline within the intraseasonal period band (10–80 days). A detailed investigation of the dynamics of the intraseasonal variations is carried out using an ocean general circulation model, namely, the Hybrid Coordinate Ocean Model (HYCOM). Two parallel experiments are performed in the tropical Atlantic Ocean basin for the period 2000–03: one is forced by daily scatterometer winds from the Quick Scatterometer (QuikSCAT) satellite together with other forcing fields, and the other is forced by the low-passed 80-day version of the above fields. To help in understanding the role played by the wind-driven equatorial waves, a linear continuously stratified ocean model is also used.

Within 3°S–3°N of the equatorial region, the strong 40–60-day sea surface height anomaly (SSHA) and thermocline variability result mainly from the first and second baroclinic modes equatorial Kelvin waves that are forced by intraseasonal zonal winds, with the second baroclinic mode playing a more important role. Sharp 40–50-day peaks of zonal and meridional winds appear in both the QuikSCAT and Pilot Research Moored Array in the Tropical Atlantic (PIRATA) data for the period 2002–03, and they are especially strong in 2002. Zonal wind anomaly in the central-western equatorial basin for the period 2000–06 is significantly correlated with SSHA across the equatorial basin, with simultaneous/lag correlation ranging from −0.62 to 0.74 above 95% significance. Away from the equator (3°–5°N), however, sea level and thermocline variations in the 40–60-day band are caused largely by tropical instability waves (TIWs).

On 10–40-day time scales and west of 10°W, the spectral power of sea level and thermocline appears to be dominated by TIWs within 5°S–5°N of the equatorial region. The wind-driven circulation, however, also provides a significant contribution. Interestingly, east of 10°W, SSHA and thermocline variations at 10–40-day periods result almost entirely from wind-driven equatorial waves. During the boreal spring of 2002 when TIWs are weak, Kelvin waves dominate the SSHA across the equatorial basin (2°S–2°N). The observed quasi-biweekly Yanai waves are excited mainly by the quasi-biweekly meridional winds, and they contribute significantly to the SSHA and thermocline variations in 1°–5°N and 1°–5°S regions.
Statistical Modeling of Downslope Windstorms in Boulder, Colorado
Authors: Mercer Andrew E. , Richman Michael B. , Bluestein Howard B. , Brown John M.
Published: May 2008

Downslope windstorms are of major concern to those living in and around Boulder, Colorado, often striking with little warning, occasionally bringing clear-air wind gusts of 35–50 m s−1 or higher, and producing widespread damage. Historically, numerical models used for forecasting these events had lower than desired accuracy. This observation provides the motivation to study the potential for improving windstorm forecasting through the use of linear and nonlinear statistical modeling techniques with a perfect prog approach. A 10-yr mountain-windstorm dataset and a set of 18 predictors are used to train and test the models. For the linear model, a stepwise regression is applied. It is difficult to determine which predictor is the most important, although significance testing suggests that 700-hPa flow is selected often. The nonlinear techniques employed, feedforward neural networks (NN) and support vector regression (SVR), do not filter out predictors as the former uses a hidden layer to account for the nonlinearities in the data, whereas the latter fits a kernel function to the data to optimize prediction. The models are evaluated using root-mean-square error (RMSE) and median residuals. The SVR model has the lowest forecast errors, consistently, and is not prone to creating outlier forecasts. Stepwise linear regression (LR) yielded results that were accurate to within an RMSE of 8 m s−1; whereas an NN had errors of 7–9 m s−1 and SVR had errors of 4–6 m s−1. For SVR, 85% of the forecasts predicted maximum wind gusts with an RMSE of less than 6 m s−1 and all forecasts predicted wind gusts with an RMSE of below 12 m s−1. The LR method performed slightly better in most evaluations than NNs; however, SVR was the optimal technique.
Lessons from Strange Cases
Authors: Goldberg Ellis , Wibbels Erik , Mvukiyehe Eric
Published: May 2008

The work linking natural resource wealth to authoritarianism and under-development suffers from several shortcomings. In this article, the authors outline those shortcomings and address them in a new empirical setting. Using a new data set for the U.S. states spanning 73 years and case studies of Texas and Louisiana, the authors are able to more carefully examine both the diachronic nature and comparative legs of the resource curse hypothesis than previous research has. They provide evidence that natural resource dependence contributes to slower economic growth, poorer developmental performance, and less competitive politics. Using this empirical setting, they also begin parsing the mechanisms that might explain the negative association between resource wealth and political and economic development. They draw implications from intranational findings for resource abundant countries across the world and suggest directions for future cross-national and cross-state work.
Permeability Prediction of Fibrous Porous Media in a Bi-Periodic Domain
Authors: Jun Feng Wang  , Wook Ryol Hwang
Published: May 2008

A finite-element scheme is presented to investigate the permeability of fibrous porous medium in a bi-periodic domain such that a single cell problem with a small number of fiber filaments may represent a large number of repeated structures. Based on the fictitious domain method and the rigid-ring description, we use a fixed regular mesh for the entire domain, including the interior of fibers, and the fiber is described by its boundary only. A formal bi-periodicity has been implemented with the mortar-element method and fibers split by the domain boundary have been treated in a relatively easy way. To demonstrate the feasibility, examples of the regular fiber packing, the random fiber distribution and the fiber bundle problems have been investigated using the bi-periodic domain and compared with the literature.
Properties of Banana and Pandanus Woven Fabric Reinforced Unsaturated Polyester Composites
Authors: Mariatti M. , Jannah M. , Abu Bakar A. , Khalil H.P.S. Abdul
Published: May 2008

The properties of unsaturated polyester reinforced with banana and pandanus woven fabric were studied. Both of the composite systems were fabricated by vacuum bagging technique. Flexural, impact, and water absorption properties were investigated as a function of total fiber volume fraction. It is observed that the flexural and impact properties of both natural fiber composites are higher than pure polyester. Banana woven composites exhibit higher flexural and impact properties due to the difference structure in cross section, and higher cellulose content compared to that of pandanus woven composites. In both woven systems, the flexural modulus and strength increased with increase in fiber volume fraction. However above 10 and 15 vol. fraction of fibers, the flexural and impact properties of these two woven composite systems decreased due to insufficient resin, respectively. Water absorption test showed that woven pandanus fabric composites increased the overall water uptake than woven banana fabric composites, this might be due to higher hemicellulose content and the defects existed in the composite system.
A Violent Future? Political Risk Insurance Markets and Violence Forecasts
Authors: Jensen Nathan M. , Young Daniel J.
Published: May 2008

There is a substantial literature that has linked past acts of violence to investment. In this article, we argue that the appropriate mechanism linking violence to investment is investor perceptions of risk, in which forward-looking investors attempt to predict the likelihood of future political violence. We take advantage of a new data source—the price paid by investors to purchase risk insurance coverage—to more accurately capture how risk is assessed in investment decision making. Building on the civil war literature, we offer a broad explanatory model of variation in violence risk in the developing world. After controlling for recent past experiences with violence, we find that wealth and democracy significantly affect the perception of risk, whereas demographic factors and natural resource endowments have limited, if any, influence.
Using a Function-Based Approach to Decrease Problem Behaviors and Increase Academic Engagement for Latino English Language Learners
Authors: Preciado Jorge A. , Horner Robert H. , Baker Scott K.
Published: May 2008

This study evaluates the effectiveness of a function-based intervention to improve behavior and reading outcomes for Latino English language learners (ELLs). The participants, four Latino ELLs in an elementary school general education setting, were directly observed over a 14-week period. Functional behavioral assessment via teacher interviews and archival reviews were conducted to establish a hypothesis regarding the maintaining function of students' problem behavior. A functional analysis was conducted to verify the function of students' problem behavior, and a single-subject, multiple-baseline, across-subjects design was used to document the relationship between reduction in problem behavior and implementation of language-matched instructional priming. Results documented a functional relationship between intervention and reduction of problem behavior.
An Evaluation Study of the Young Empowered Sisters (YES!) Program: Promoting Cultural Assets Among African American Adolescent Girls Through a Culturally Relevant School-Based Intervention
Authors: Thomas Oseela , Davidson William , McAdoo Harriette
Published: May 2008

The present study examines the effects of a culturally relevant school-based intervention in promoting cultural assets (i.e., ethnic identity, collectivist orientation, racism awareness, and libratory youth activism) among a group of African American adolescent girls. The overall goal of the intervention was to promote cultural factors that can protect African American youth from the adverse effects of racism. A total of 74 African American girls participated in the study, of whom 36 were in the intervention group and 38 in the control group. Pre- and posttests were administered to assess intervention effects. Overall findings reveal that the intervention had significant and positive effects on ethnic identity, racism awareness, collectivism, and liberatory youth activism. Implications for risk prevention and promotion of psychosocial functioning among African American youth are discussed.
Management and Knowledge of Enteral Nutrition in Intensive Care Units in a City in Belgium
Authors: Ista Pascal , Jassin Sylvie , Noël Françoise , Preiser Jean‐Charles
Published: May 2008

The administration of enteral nutrition in intensive care unit (ICU) patients is largely managed by nurses. However, the degree of knowledge, interest, and training in this field can differ considerably among nurses and among ICUs. Such differences may lead to variations in the way in which enteral nutrition is used. To investigate these issues, a questionnaire survey was sent to the nursing staffs of 5 ICUs in Belgium. The response rate was 68%. Although theoretical knowledge of enteral nutrition was globally poor, its advantages over parenteral nutrition were usually known. Responses to questions related to practical issues associated with enteral feeding showed more institution‐specific answers than interindividual differences.
Energy Requirements in Critically Ill Patients: How Close Are Our Estimates?
Authors: Alberda Cathy , Snowden Laura , McCargar Linda , Gramlich Leah
Published: May 2008

A retrospective analysis of 55 mechanically ventilated critically ill patients was conducted to determine adequacy of nutritional support (total parenteral nutrition or enteral nutrition) according to requirements established by indirect calorimetry. Patients who received 90% to 110% of the established energy requirements as measured by indirect calorimetry were defined as adequately fed. At the time of the indirect calorimetry measurements, all patients were receiving their targeted nutritional support, as assessed by the unit dietitian, who used predictive formulas to assess patients. Indirect calorimetry results showed that 25% of the patients were overfed (receiving >110% of energy requirements), 35% were underfed (receiving <90% of energy requirements), and 40% were adequately fed (receiving 90% to 110% of energy requirements). We determined that critically ill patients with a body mass index <20 kg/m2 were the most likely group to be assessed inappropriately by available regression equations. If indirect calorimetry measurement is unavailable, we suggest using an empiric formula of 37 kcal/kg for critically ill patients with a body mass index <20 kg/m2.
Comparison of Continuous vs Intermittent Nasogastric Enteral Feeding in Trauma Patients: Perceptions and Practice
Authors: Steevens Emmy C. , Lipscomb A. F. , Poole Galen V. , Sacks Gordon S.
Published: May 2008

Enteral nutrition support (ENS) may be administered by continuous administration or by intermittent bolus, but few studies have compared the advantages and limitations associated with these methods in the trauma patient population. The purpose of this prospective randomized study was to evaluate the impact of continuous vs intermittent nasogastric enteral feeding on gastrointestinal tolerance, pulmonary aspiration, and nutritional indices. A survey of medical and surgical intensive care unit nursing staff was performed to assess perceptions and attitudes toward these 2 delivery methods. Eighteen trauma patients [Injury Severity Score (ISS) ≥ 20] were enrolled in the study; 9 received continuous ENS (CENS) and 9 received intermittent bolus ENS (IENS). Interruption of ENS delivery occurred in more IENS than CENS patients due to elevated residuals and emesis. Diarrhea occurred in more patients (5/9 vs 2/9) and for a longer duration (14/65 vs 6/49 ENS days) in the IENS group compared with the CENS group. Aspiration was detected in 1 IENS patient. Method of nutrient delivery did not seem to influence urine urea nitrogen (UUN) measurements or prealbumin concentrations. Nurses surveyed in the study (n = 25) preferred CENS (84%) compared with IENS (12%). Data from this study suggest that CENS through a nasoenteric feeding tube may facilitate nutrient intake with less gastrointestinal complications in severely injured trauma patients compared with IENS. In addition, the majority of nurses surveyed preferred the continuous method for nutrient delivery.
The Ins and Outs of Venous Access: Part I
Authors: Vanek Vincent W.
Published: May 2008

Selection of the proper venous access device is important to maximize patient benefit and minimize patient discomfort, morbidity, mortality, and cost. The decision of which device to use is based on whether or not the patient requires central venous access and whether the need is short‐term (<6 to 8 weeks) or long‐term. Short‐term venous access devices include short peripheral IV catheters, midline catheters, peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC), and central venous catheters (CVC). This article reviews each of these short‐term devices and their indications, contraindications, advantages, and disadvantages. Part 1 covers Venous Anatomy and Short‐Term Venous Access; Part 2, to be published in the June issue, covers Long‐Term Venous Access.
The Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter: What Are the Current Indications for Its Use?
Authors: Orr Marsha Evans
Published: May 2008

The use of peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) has dramatically increased since first being used for IV therapy in the 1980s. Currently, sales of PICCs are second only to acute care central venous catheters and exceed all other types of long‐term venous access devices. The use of PICCs has also increased dramatically in the home care setting. A number of studies have examined the incidence of PICC complications in comparison to other central venous access devices. Although complications differ, most reports have concluded that the type and rate of PICC complications compare favorably with other access devices in the short‐term; however, dwell times beyond a few weeks have been associated with decreased complication‐free days and lower device survivability rates. The PICC seems to be most appropriate for acute care or short‐term home care use and may not be the ideal central venous access device when the need for long‐term access is anticipated.
Food Dye Use in Enteral Feedings: A Review and a Call for a Moratorium
Authors: Maloney James P. , Ryan Tracey A. , Brasel Karen J. , Binion David G. , Johnson Deborah R. , Halbower Ann C. , Frankel Eric H. , Nyffeler Michael , Moss Marc
Published: May 2008

Pulmonary aspiration of gastric contents is common in enterally fed patients. Tinting enteral feedings with blue dye is thought to aid the early detection of aspiration in hospitalized patients. The blue‐dye method is popular despite evidence that it is not sensitive. Reports of absorption of blue dye from enteral feedings in patients with sepsis and other critical illnesses are increasing. The presence of blue and green skin and urine, and serum discoloration has been linked with death. FD&C Blue No.1 and related dyes have toxic effects on mitochondria, suggesting that dye absorption is harmful. This study reviews the literature on the dye method and dye pharmacology, reports the results of a survey of current dye use, and describes 2 recent deaths associated with blue‐dye absorption. We concluded that the use of blue dye in enteral feedings should be abandoned and replaced by evidence‐based methods for the prevention of aspiration.
Pitfalls in Predicting Resting Energy Requirements in Critically Ill Children: A Comparison of Predictive Methods to Indirect Calorimetry
Authors: Hardy Christine M. , Dwyer Johanna , Snelling Linda K. , Dallal Gerard E. , Adelson Joel W.
Published: May 2008

Background: Critical illness in children is thought to have profound effects on nutritional status. It is essential to avoid complications associated with inadequate nutrition support and delivery of excess energy. Objective: To compare the results of several commonly used methods for predicting energy requirements in a group of critically ill children indirect calorimetry was used to measure energy expenditure in these children. Design: Resting energy expenditures estimated by different prediction methods for energy were compared with measurements of actual resting energy expenditure obtained by indirect calorimetry in 52 children admitted to a pediatric intensive care unit. Agreement between each predictive method and indirect calorimetry was evaluated by Bland‐Altman limits of agreement and by whether the methods met the predetermined criterion for accuracy of within 10% of the measured value. Results: None of the equations predicted individual values accurately. Each of the predictive equations gave a wide and variable scatter of predicted values around the median. The recommended dietary allowance for energy was the least accurate and differed significantly even from the other predictive methods, overestimating energy expenditure in 50 of 52 patients. None of the remaining methods stood out as being more precise. Conclusions: Predictive methods commonly used to estimate energy expenditure in critically ill children are very imprecise and may lead to overprovision or underprovision of nutrition support. Resting energy expenditure should be measured by indirect calorimetry whenever possible.
The Pathophysiology and Treatment of Cancer Cachexia
Authors: Barber Matthew D.
Published: May 2008

Cachexia in cancer patients is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. The syndrome of cachexia seems to be a facet of the inflammatory response to injury. This proinflammatory state is driven by an interdependent web of mediators such as cytokines, neurotransmitters, prostaglandins, neuroendocrine hormones, and tumor‐derived catabolic factors. The resulting metabolic response to cancer prevents the effective use of calories provided and therefore blocks anabolism. The most promising interventions in cancer cachexia seem to depend on modulation of the inflammatory state (including nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs and fish oil–based preparations). Suppression of the inflammatory milieu seems to allow nutrition to have an anabolic effect, resulting in gains in lean tissue with the potential to improve patient survival and quality of life.
Intravenous Hyperalimentation and Cancer: A Historical Perspective
Authors: Mattox Todd W.
Published: May 2008

The role of total parenteral nutrition (TPN) in the supportive care of cancer patients has evolved over the past 25 to 30 years. Multiple investigations and subsequent meta‐analysis review of the results of selected randomized controlled trials have been conducted in an attempt to better define the tumor‐bearing patient who is most likely to respond favorably to TPN intervention. A historical perspective on the evolution of TPN in cancer patients was provided by Dr Edward Copeland in his 1986 Jonathon E. Rhoads Lecture. This classic article is summarized and additional data from more recent publications are included to provide a current perspective of the role of TPN in cancer patients.
Dietary Management of Patients in Chronic Renal Failure
Authors: Foulks Charles J.
Published: May 2008

A new oral amino acid preparation was given to two groups of patients: group 1, five patients on hemodialysis; and group 2, five patients with chronic renal failure (CRF). In group 1, significant prediet and postdiet changes were: BUN 93 to 37 mg% (p smaller than .01); creatinine 13.0 to 9.7 mg% (p smaller than .001); phosphorus 6.6 to 4.2 mg% (p smaller than .05); uric acid 8.7 to 6.0 mg% (p smaller than .01); CO2 16.3 to 21.3 mEq/L (p smaller than .01); hematocrit 18.0 to 20.8% (p smaller than .05). In group 2: BUN 93 to 66 mg% (p smaller than .05); phosphorus 5.6 to 3.8 mg% (p smaller than .05); hematocrit 27.3 to 30.7% (p smaller than .05). Nitrogen balance was positive in all patients. It is concluded that this oral amino acid mixture is well‐tolerated and can be utilized in CRF to attain protein anabolism.
Ins and Outs of Enteral Access. Part 1: Short‐Term Enteral Access
Authors: Vanek Vincent W.
Published: May 2008

Proper selection of the type of enteral access in a given clinical situation is important to maximize the benefit to the patient and minimize the discomfort to the patient, the morbidity and mortality, and the cost. This decision is based on whether or not the patient needs short‐term (<4–6 weeks) or long‐term enteral nutrition support. This article focuses on short‐term access including nasogastric (NG) and nasoenteric (NE) tubes and reviews each of these enteral access tubes along with their indications, contraindications, advantages, and disadvantages.
Parent Perceptions of Mealtime Behaviors in Children Fed Enterally
Authors: Burklow Kathleen A. , McGrath Ann M. , Allred Kelly E. , Rudolph Colin D.
Published: May 2008

Background: Parent reports of mealtime behavioral problems were examined within a sample of medically complicated young children with documented feeding difficulties. Mealtime behavior problems of children who were fed orally were compared with children who received their total nutrition enterally. Methods: A chart review of 140 pediatric patients presenting to an outpatient Interdisciplinary Feeding Team (IFT) clinic was conducted. The sample consisted of 81 males and 59 females ranging from 1.5 months to 12.6 years of age (mean age, 36.5 months). Information included for analyses was obtained from the IFT intake form, final IFT report, and the Behavioral Pediatrics Feeding Assessment Scale (BPFAS). Results: Parents of children in both groups found child mealtime behaviors equally problematic according to mean intensity ratings and frequency of problems regarding both parent behavior and child behaviors. Conclusions: Regardless of feeding status (enteral versus oral feeding) of the child, parents of children with feeding and nutrition concerns benefit from intervention and support surrounding mealtimes. The specific mealtime strategies and needs of the parents, however, may differ depending on the feeding status of the child.