Variation In Relationship Research Articles

Editor's Introduction to This Issue.

Transposable elements (TEs) are genetic elements that have the potential to move from one site to another in the genome. Therefore, TEs mediate diverse recombination events and eventually can contribute to genomic evolution. In addition, TEs contribute to genomic instability and diverse diseases, including cancer. However, the mechanisms and extent of disease contribution of TEs are not well known yet. Regarding these areas, three review papers are reported in this issue. Dr. Byung-Dong Kim of Seoul National University reviewed foldback intercoil (FBI) DNA and the mechanism of DNA transposition mediated by FBI. In this review, he introduced the FBI DNA element and the mechanistic features that are relevant to the application of FBI DNA to the mechanisms of DNA transposition. Dr. Nam-Soo Kim's group of Kangwon National University reviewed genome size variations in plants in relation to TEs. Of all eukaryotes, TEs are especially prevalent in plants. The extreme genomic size variation of plants has posited a conundrum in evolutionary genetics. The authors introduced genomic size variations in relation to TEs using some examples, such as the Liliaceae family, known to have large genomes in angiosperms. Dr. Heui-Soo Kim's group of Pusan National University reviewed the biological implications of TEs in genomic evolution, genetic instability, and diverse human diseases. They gave an overview of the importance of TEs in studying genomic evolution and genetic instability and suggested that further in-depth studies on the mechanisms related to these phenomena will be useful for clinical applications. There is another interesting review regarding epigenetic regulation in this issue. Dr. Joomyeong Kim's group of Louisiana State University introduced the regulation and function of the Peg3 imprinted domain. The authors summarized the information that we have learned so far regarding the Peg3 domain and discussed the similarities and differences between the Peg3 and other imprinted domains. The other three articles are the Korean Association Resource (KARE) data genomic analysis award winners. The analysis of KARE data from young scientists' creative points of view has generated new interpretations and interesting evidence, which we should pay attention to in future studies. Genomics & Informatics is already available in PubMed Central and PubMed. Recently, Genomics & Informatics applied to be listed in SCOPUS.

Evidence of Polar Mesosphere Summer Echoes Observed by SuperDARN SANAE HF Radar in Antarctica

We report on the polar mesosphere summer echoes (PMSE) occurrence probability over SANAE (South African National Antarctic Expedition) IV, for the first time. A matching coincidence method is described and implemented for PMSE extraction from SuperDARN (Super Dual Auroral Radar Network) HF radar. Several SuperDARN-PMSE characteristics are studied during the summer period from years 2005-2007. The seasonal and interannual SuperDARN-PMSE variations in relation to the mesospheric neutral winds are studied and presented in this paper. The occurrence probability of SuperDARNPMSE on the day-to-day scale show, predominantly, diurnal variation, with a broader peak between 12-14 LT and distinct minimum of 22 LT. The SuperDARN-PMSE occurrence probability rate is high in the summer solstice. Seasonal variations show a connection between the SuperDARN-PMSE occurrence probability rate and mesospheric temperature from SABER (Sounding of the Atmosphere using Broadband Emission Radiometry). The seasonal trend for both meridional and zonal winds is very stable year-to-year. Analysis of the neutral wind variations indicates the importance of pole-to-pole circulations in SuperDARN-PMSE generation.

Thermo-Physical Properties of Local Materials Used in the Construction of Chad

As earth is the most commonly used construction material in Chad, the purpose of the present study is to characterize it as a whole, and to characterize its thermo physical properties. Various tests were conducted on it and mainly on its thermo-physical characteristics, as these significantly affect the comfort of a house. The study focused on earth taken from a climate zone of Chad, mixed with straw at a given proportion or used alone. Different values of thermal conductivity and diffusivity of these materials as well as their variations in relation with water continence are presented.

How Long, Narrowly Constructed Wetlands Purify Irrigation Return Water: A Case Study of Ulansuhai Lake, China

The use of constructed wetlands (CWs) in the treatment of raw wastewater in China has proved to be very successful in recent decades. However, it is not known whether surface-flow constructed wetlands can effectively purify irrigation return water. To investigate the performance of a constructed wetland in terms of meeting the goals of pollutant purification, the 8th drainage of Ulansuhai Lake was used for this study. Pollutant removal performances, as well as hydrological characteristic variations in relation to specific characteristics of plants, were investigated utilizing two years of monthly average data. The results indicated that surface-flow constructed wetlands can effectively change the physical characteristics of return water and lead to a sharp decrease in pollutant concentrations. The 1200 m long, narrowly constructed wetland resulted in the average reduction rates of total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP) of up to 22.1% and 21.5%, respectively. The overall purification efficient of the constructed wetland presented seasonal variations in four different monitoring periods (May, July, September, and November). Constructed wetlands with multiple types of plants exhibited higher efficiencies in pollutants removal than those with a single type of plant. The current study can provide meaningful information for the treatment of agricultural wastewater.

Erodibilidade de um Cambissolo Húmico sob chuva natural

A estimativa de perdas de solo é fundamental para o planejamento conservacionista. Com essa finalidade, destaca-se no Brasil o uso da Equação Universal de Perdas de Solo (USLE), para cuja utilização há escassez de dados obtidos de acordo com o método-padrão desse modelo. Entre os fatores que compõem a USLE, a erodibilidade do solo (fator K) é de difícil obtenção em razão da necessidade de conduzir experimentos em campo por longo tempo sob chuva natural. Com o objetivo de quantificar a erodibilidade do solo em um Cambissolo Húmico em Lages, SC, utilizando-se do método-padrão da USLE, quantificaram-se a erosividade (EI30) das chuvas naturais e as respectivas perdas de solo durante o período de 1993 a 2012. A erodibilidade foi determinada pelo quociente entre essas variáveis e pela regressão linear simples dessas. O valor de erodibilidade anual estimado pelo quociente e pela regressão linear simples entre as perdas de solo e as erosividades foi respectivamente de 0,0175 e 0,0172 Mg ha h ha-1 MJ-1 mm-1. A erodibilidade nos períodos de primavera-verão e outono-inverno apresentou pequenas variações em relação à média anual. A erodibilidade mensal variou de 0,0083 Mg ha h ha-1 MJ-1 mm-1 no mês de dezembro a 0,0241 Mg ha h ha-1 MJ-1 mm-1, no mês de abril. Ao longo do período de tempo avaliado, a erodibilidade anual evidenciou maior incremento nos anos iniciais e menor incremento nos anos finais.

Preliminary Researches Regarding the Conservation of Endangered Local Cattle to be Abandoned and the Achieving of Meat Hybrids Throughout the Hybridization with Romanian Breeds

Abstract Studies were performed on first generation meat hybrids, from the Bălţată cu Negru Românească (BNR) dairy cattle, into four experimental groups of five animals /group, in relation to meat bulls breeds from which the frozen semen material used for cows artificial insemination, respectively: Group E1- Limousine (Li), E2 - Aberdeen Angus (AA), E3 - Blue Blanch Belgian (BBB) and E4 - Charolaise (CH). The hybrids obtained from the experimental groups were observed in terms of dynamic growth and development through biometric measurements and periodic weightings 3 months intervals until 12 months of age. Average Daily Gain (ADG) recorded different variations in report to age and breed: at six months old, between 418.52 ± 60.97 g (Group E3 -BBB) and 486.67 ± 108.66 g (Group E2 - AA), at 12 months old, between 997.22 g (Group E2 - AA) and 1311.11 g (Group E3 -BBB). Slaughter rate at 12 months showed variations in relation to breed and thermal regime, so in hot regime the values ranged between 56.62 % (BNR x AA) and 60.60 % (BNR x BBB) and in cold regime (to 24 hours) between 55.68 % (BNR x AA) and 59.73 % (BNR x BBB). Carcasses development indicators had values in most cases in favor of BNR x AA hybrids than BNR x BBB hybrids, with significant differences (P ≤ 0.01) regarding the width index (201.43 cm to 175.84 cm) and pulp development index (129.27 cm to 110.64 cm). From results analysis it can be concluded that in dangered local cattle, to be abandoned because of productive reform or not relevant point of view of milk production can be used in first generation for hybridization with meat breeds in obtaining meat hybrids with morphological features, slaughter rate and carcass structure from superior quality categories than the maternal breed.

An investigation into the upward transport of uranium-series radionuclides in soils and uptake by plants

The upward migration of radionuclides in the 238U decay series in soils and their uptake by plants is of interest in various contexts, including the geological disposal of radioactive waste and the remediation of former sites of uranium mining and milling. In order to investigate the likely patterns of behaviour of 238U-series radionuclides being transported upward through the soil column, a detailed soil–plant model originally developed for studying the behaviour of 79Se in soil–plant systems has been adapted to make it applicable to the 238U series. By undertaking a reference case simulation and a series of sensitivity studies, it has been found that a wide variety of behaviour can be exhibited by radionuclides in the 238U decay chain in soils, even when the source term is limited to being a constant flux of either 238U or 226Ra. Hydrological conditions are a primary factor, both in respect of the overall advective flow deeper in the soil, which controls the rate of upward migration, and in the influence of seasonally changing flow directions closer to the soil surface, which can result in the accumulation of radionuclides at specific depths irrespective of changes in sorption between the oxic and anoxic regions of the soil. However, such changes in sorption can also be significant in controlling the degree of accumulation that occurs. This importance of seasonally varying factors in controlling radionuclide transport in soils even in very long-term simulations is a strong argument against the use of annually averaged parameters in long-term assessment models.With a water table that was simulated to fluctuate seasonally from a substantial depth in soil to the surface soil layer, the timing of such variations in relation to the period of plant growth was found to have a major impact on the degree of uptake of radionuclides by plant roots.In long-term safety assessment studies it has sometimes been the practice to model the transport of 226Ra in soil, but to assume that both 210Pb and 210Po can be treated as being present in secular equilibrium with the 226Ra. This simplification is not always appropriate. Where geochemical conditions are such that the 226Ra migrates upward in the soil column faster than 210Pb and 210Po, disequilibrium is not a significant issue, as the 226Ra supports 210Pb and 210Po at concentrations somewhat below those estimated on the basis of assumed secular equilibrium. However, for low, but realistic, values of the distribution coefficients for 210Pb and 210Po and high, but realistic, distribution coefficients for 226Ra, the 210Pb and 210Po can reach the surface soil in high concentrations that are not locally supported by 226Ra. This means that models based on the assumption of secular equilibrium should not be employed without a careful consideration of the hydrological and hydrochemical situation of interest.

Sequence analysis and identification of new variations in the coding sequence of melatonin receptor gene (MTNR1A) of Indian Chokla sheep breed

Melatonin receptor 1A gene is the prime receptor mediating the effect of melatonin at the neuroendocrine level for control of seasonal reproduction in sheep. The aims of this study were to examine the polymorphism pattern of coding sequence of MTNR1A gene in Chokla sheep, a breed of Indian arid tract and to identify new variations in relation to its aseasonal status. Genomic DNAs of 101 Chokla sheep were collected and an 824bp coding sequence of Exon II was amplified. RFLP was performed with enzyme RsaI and MnlI to assess the presence of polymorphism at position C606T and G612A, respectively. Genotyping revealed significantly higher frequency of M and R alleles than m and r alleles. RR and MM were found to be dominantly present in the group of studied population. Cloning and sequencing of Exon II followed by mutation/polymorphism analysis revealed ten mutations of which three were non-synonymous mutations (G706A, C893A, G931C). G706A leads to substitution of valine by isoleucine Val125I (U14109) in the fifth transmembrane domain. C893A leads to substitution of alanine by aspartic acid in the third extracellular loop. G931C mutation brings about substitution of amino acid alanine by proline in the seventh transmembrane helix, can affect the conformational stability of the molecule. Polyphen-2 analysis revealed that the polymorphism at position 931 is potentially damaging while the mutations at positions 706 and 893 were benign. It is concluded that G931C mutation of MTNR 1A gene, may explain, in part, the importance of melatonin structure integrity in influencing seasonality in sheep.

Precipitation effects on microbial pollution in a river: lag structures and seasonal effect modification.

BackgroundThe river Göta Älv is a source of freshwater for 0.7 million swedes. The river is subject to contamination from sewer systems discharge and runoff from agricultural lands. Climate models projects an increase in precipitation and heavy rainfall in this region. This study aimed to determine how daily rainfall causes variation in indicators of pathogen loads, to increase knowledge of variations in river water quality and discuss implications for risk management.MethodsData covering 7 years of daily monitoring of river water turbidity and concentrations of E. coli, Clostridium and coliforms were obtained, and their short-term variations in relation with precipitation were analyzed with time series regression and non-linear distributed lag models. We studied how precipitation effects varied with season and compared different weather stations for predictive ability.ResultsGenerally, the lowest raw water quality occurs 2 days after rainfall, with poor raw water quality continuing for several more days. A rainfall event of >15 mm/24-h (local 95 percentile) was associated with a three-fold higher concentration of E. coli and 30% higher turbidity levels (lag 2). Rainfall was associated with exponential increases in concentrations of indicator bacteria while the effect on turbidity attenuated with very heavy rainfall. Clear associations were also observed between consecutive days of wet weather and decreased water quality. The precipitation effect on increased levels of indicator bacteria was significant in all seasons.ConclusionsRainfall elevates microbial risks year-round in this river and freshwater source and acts as the main driver of varying water quality. Heavy rainfall appears to be a better predictor of fecal pollution than water turbidity. An increase of wet weather and extreme events with climate change will lower river water quality even more, indicating greater challenges for drinking water producers, and suggesting better control of sources of pollution.

Mesosphere and lower thermosphere zonal wind variations over low latitudes: Relation to local stratospheric zonal winds and global circulation anomalies

AbstractLong‐term observations from medium‐frequency and meteor radars (1993–2012) and rocket soundings (1979–1990 and 2002–2007) are used to study mesosphere and lower thermosphere (MLT) zonal wind variations in relation to the stratospheric winds over northern low latitudes. The combined data set provides a complete height profile of amplitude of semiannual oscillation (SAO) up to 100 km, with an exception around 75–80 km. The SAO signal has maxima around 50 km and 82 km and a minimum around 65 km. The MLT zonal winds show remarkable interannual variability during northern hemispheric spring equinox and much less during fall equinox. Zonal wind mesospheric spring equinox enhancements (MSEE) appear with a periodicity of 2–3 years, suggesting a modulation by the quasi‐biennial oscillation, which we identified with the strength of stratospheric westward winds. Out of 20 years of observations, the stratospheric westward winds are strong during 11 years (non‐MSEE) and weak during 9 years. Six of these 9 years show large MLT winds (MSEE), and 3 years (1999, 2004, and 2006) show small MLT winds (missing MSEE). These unexpected small winds occur in years with global circulation anomalies associated with strong sudden stratospheric warmings and an early spring transition of zonal winds. With the proposed three MSEE classes, we take into account local and global forcing factors.

Evolution of a volcanogenic hydrothermal system recorded by the behavior of LREE and Eu: Case study of the Key Tuffite at Bracemac–McLeod deposits, Matagami, Canada

The distribution of rare earth elements (REE) in the alteration zones surrounding modern and ancient volcanogenic massive sulfide (VMS) deposits is often characterized by a wide range of variations comprising both gains and losses of light REE (LREE: La to Sm) and europium. The evolution of the hydrothermal system is recorded by mineral assemblages and their chemical composition. To address the behavior of the REE in such a context, the Bracemac–McLeod Archean VMS deposits of the Matagami district are used. There, mineralization was formed mainly by subsea-floor replacement along a tuffaceous marker unit (Key Tuffite) of homogenous andesitic composition, hence providing a single protolith to account for mineral and chemical variations in relation to ore position. We combine whole-rock and mineral REE data in both distal sericite and proximal chlorite alteration surrounding the mineralization. A model, integrating observed textural relationships, geochemical data and current understanding of mineral stabilities, is proposed to explain the redistribution of the REE during the evolution of the VMS hydrothermal system. The distal sericite zone represents the early, low temperature alteration. It is characterized by the destruction of volcanic glass and plagioclase leading to a negative Eu anomaly in the whole-rock analyses and the depletion of LREE. The proximal chlorite zone was formed during the thermal evolution of a fertile VMS hydrothermal system. It is generally characterized by gains of LREE and Eu, although some chloritized samples are depleted in LREE. Petrographic observations suggest that the coprecipitation of allanite with chlorite explains the increase of LREE, whereas a mass balance calculation indicates that the precipitation of apatite (±carbonates) essentially controls the Eu. Local silicification, occurring as pulses during the hydrothermal system life, is also of interest because it could preserve an intermediate alteration state and thus provide additional information on the evolution of the hydrothermal system. The mobility of REE is indicative of specific hydrothermal conditions, which may reflect the efficiency of a mineralizing hydrothermal system. At Matagami, the mobility of LREE and Eu could be used for vectoring in exploration, especially Eu which has an anomalous behavior that extends far beyond the limit of the sulfide zone, into the distal sericitic low-temperature alteration (up to 400m from the ore zones).

A 12-year record reveals pre-growing season temperature and water table level threshold effects on the net carbon dioxide exchange in a boreal fen

This study uses a 12-year time series (2001–2012) of eddy covariance measurements to investigate the long-term net ecosystem exchange (NEE) of carbon dioxide (CO2) and inter-annual variations in relation to abiotic drivers in a boreal fen in northern Sweden. The peatland was a sink for atmospheric CO2 in each of the twelve study years with a 12-year average (± standard deviation) NEE of −58 ± 21 g C m−2 yr−1. For ten out of twelve years, the cumulative annual NEE was within a range of −42 to −79 g C m−2 yr−1 suggesting a general state of resilience of NEE to moderate inter-annual climate variations. However, the annual NEE of −18 and −106 g C m−2 yr−1 in 2006 and 2008, respectively, diverged considerably from this common range. The lower annual CO2 uptake in 2006 was mainly due to late summer emissions related to an exceptional drop in water table level (WTL). A positive relationship (R2 = 0.65) between pre-growing season (January to April) air temperature (Ta) and summer (June to July) gross ecosystem production (GEP) was observed. We suggest that enhanced GEP due to mild pre-growing season air temperature in combination with air temperature constraints on ecosystem respiration (ER) during the following cooler summer explained most of the greater net CO2 uptake in 2008. Differences in the annual and growing season means of other abiotic variables (e.g. radiation, vapor pressure deficit, precipitation) and growing season properties (i.e. start date, end date, length) were unable to explain the inter-annual variations of NEE. Overall, our findings suggest that this boreal fen acts as a persistent contemporary sink for atmospheric CO2 that is, however, susceptible to severe anomalies in WTL and pre-growing season air temperature associated with predicted changes in climate patterns for the boreal region.

Disciplinary variations in English domain-specific personal epistemology: Insights from disciplines differing along Biglan's dimensions of academic domains classification

Abstract Studies of cross-disciplinary variations in relation to English have been predominantly focused around identifying lower-level linguistic or structural elements. Variations in the use of these elements are assumed to be associated with the epistemological standards of academic disciplines and reflect differences in the discipline-specific conceptions of the nature of knowledge. However, research in this area has approached disciplinarity mostly from this restricted viewpoint of linguistic surface elements and has seldom explored likely differences in the epistemological stances of learners of other academic disciplines towards English. Therefore, the present study aims to investigate the English domain-specific personal epistemology of students of five academic majors differing along Biglan's Soft/Hard and Applied/Pure dimensions of academic domains classification. To this end, surveys were administered to 150 senior students of five academic disciplines—Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Law, Psychology and English—to explore both their discipline-specific and English-specific personal epistemologies. The data were analyzed using one-way and multivariate analyses of variance and a series of correlations. The analyses revealed significant differences in both discipline-specific and English-domain-specific epistemological stances of the participants across soft and hard academic majors. The analyses further revealed that the participants viewed knowledge of English along the epistemological standards of their own disciplines.

The effects of season and sand mining activities on thermal regime and water quality in a large shallow tropical lake

Thermal structure and water quality in a large and shallow lake in Malaysia were studied between January 2012 and June 2013 in order to understand variations in relation to water level fluctuations and in-stream mining activities. Environmental variables, namely temperature, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, pH, electrical conductivity, chlorophyll-A and transparency, were measured using a multi-parameter probe and a Secchi disk. Measurements of environmental variables were performed at 0.1m intervals from the surface to the bottom of the lake during the dry and wet seasons. High water level and strong solar radiation increased temperature stratification. River discharges during the wet season, and unsustainable sand mining activities led to an increased turbidity exceeding 100NTU, and reduced transparency, which changed the temperature variation and subsequently altered the water quality pattern.

How to measure CT image quality: Variations in CT-numbers, uniformity and low contrast resolution for a CT quality assurance phantom

PurposeQuality assurance (QA) phantoms for testing different image quality parameters in computed tomography (CT) are commercially available. Such phantoms are also used as reference for acceptance in the specifications of CT-scanners. The aim of this study was to analyze the characteristics of the most commonly used QA phantom in CT: Catphan 500/504/600. MethodsNine different phantoms were scanned on the same day, on one CT-scanner with the same parameter settings. Interphantom variations in CT-number values, image uniformity and low contrast resolution were evaluated for the phantoms. Comparisons between manual image analysis and results obtained from the automatic evaluation software QAlite were performed. ResultsSome interphantom variations were observed in the low contrast resolution and the CT-number modules of the phantoms. Depending on the chosen regulatory framework, the variations in CT-numbers can be interpreted as substantial. The homogenous modules were found more invariable. However, the automatic image analysis software QAlite measures image uniformity differently than recommended in international standards, and will not necessarily give results in agreement with these standards. ConclusionsIt is important to consider the interphantom variations in relation to ones framework, and to be aware of which phantom is used to study CT-numbers and low contrast resolution for a specific scanner. Comparisons with predicted values from manual and acceptance values should be performed with care and consideration. If automatic software-based evaluations are to be used, users should be aware that large differences can exist for the image uniformity testing.

Fasting time and lipid parameters: association with hepatic steatosis — data from a random population sample

BackgroundCurrent guidelines recommend measuring plasma lipids in fasting patients. Recent studies, however, suggest that variation in plasma lipid concentrations secondary to fasting time may be minimal. Objective of the present study was to investigate the impact of fasting time on plasma lipid concentrations (total cholesterol, HDL and LDL cholesterol, triglycerides). A second objective was to determine the effect of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease exerted on the above-mentioned lipid levels.MethodSubjects participating in a population-based cross-sectional study (2,445 subjects; 51.7% females) were questioned at time of phlebotomy regarding duration of pre-phlebotomy fasting. Total cholesterol, LDL and HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides were determined and correlated with length of fasting. An upper abdominal ultrasonographic examination was performed and body-mass index (BMI) and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) were calculated. Subjects were divided into three groups based on their reported fasting periods of 1–4 h, 4–8 h and > 8 h. After application of the exclusion criteria, a total of 1,195 subjects (52.4% females) were included in the study collective. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used for continuous variables and the chi-square test for categorical variables. The effects of age, BMI, WHR, alcohol consumption, fasting time and hepatic steatosis on the respective lipid variables were analyzed using multivariate logistic regression.ResultsAt multivariate analysis, fasting time was associated with elevated triglycerides (p = 0.0047 for 1–4 h and p = 0.0147 for 4–8 h among females; p < 0.0001 for 1–4 h and p = 0.0002 for 4–8 h among males) and reduced LDL cholesterol levels (p = 0.0003 for 1–4 h and p = 0.0327 for 4–8 h among males). Among males, hepatic steatosis represents an independent factor affecting elevated total cholesterol (p = 0.0278) and triglyceride concentrations (p = 0.0002).ConclusionTotal and HDL cholesterol concentrations are subject to slight variations in relation to the duration of the pre-phlebotomy fasting period. LDL cholesterol and triglycerides exhibit highly significant variability; the greatest impact is seen with the triglycerides. Fasting time represents an independent factor for reduced LDL cholesterol and elevated triglyceride concentrations. There is a close association between elevated lipids and hepatic steatosis.

Assessment of Hydrochemical Characters Variations in Relation to Phytoplankton during Pre-monsoon at J-point of Mahi Estuary, Gujarat, India

Variations of hydro-chemical characters were recorded at three sites of Mahi estuary, near J-point (Lat. 22º10.3′N and Long. 72º44.28′E) during the pre-monsoon period. The concentration of the nutrients was relatively high due to the elevated atmospheric temperature, evapo-transpiration of water, slow saline intrusion as well as low inflow of surface water from Mahi River. On the contrary, dissolved oxygen (DO) was at its minimum level during this investigated period. The trophic status of all the three study stations was determined in terms of DO, phosphate, nitrate and sulphate in relation to phytoplankton as key pollution indicators species like Navicula, Nitzchia, Oscillatoria, Scenedesmus, Syndra and others. The results revealed that all the three sites are organically polluted as per the Palmer’s species diversity indices.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/on.v11i2.9533 Our Nature 2013, 11(2): 85-95

Sponges from the Ilha Grande Bay, Rio de Janeiro State: two new records for Brazilian south-east region

Two new records of sponges are registered from Ilha Grande Bay (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil), which is an important area in Angra dos Reis for its tourist, economic and environmental contributions. Two species are redescribed in order to elucidate their morphological variations in relation to the known Caribbean specimens: Iotrochota arenosa, a new record to Brazil; and Echinodictyum dendroides, which have now been recorded on the south-east coast of Brazil for the first time. Furthermore, the genus Echinodictyum is redefined.

Chapter 14 Continuous and campaign-style gravimetric investigations on Montserrat 2006 to 2009

Abstract Gravimetric time series can provide vital clues about subsurface dynamics associated with active volcanism. Here, we report on continuous and campaign-style gravimetric observations on Montserrat between 2006 and 2009. More than 240 days of continuous gravimetric records enabled us to derive a first local joint solid Earth tides and ocean loading model for Montserrat, and we report the tidal harmonics for 14 major wave groups. Compared to global predictions, the new model (MTY11) achieves an up to one order of magnitude better precision over diurnal and semi-diurnal frequencies. We anticipate that the model will help reduce the effects of tidal perturbations on other geodetic time series recorded on Montserrat. Abrupt variations in gravity accompanied Vulcanian explosions and probably reflect the response of a shallow aquifer to stress changes during pressurization and depressurization of the subvolcanic plumbing system. Campaign data enabled the quantification of mass variations during a cycle of activity including dome formation and repose. Both forward and inverse modelling of the spatio-temporal time series indicates that the source of the recorded gravity variations is situated beneath central Montserrat. Our favourite interpretation of the campaign data is that the gravity variations reflect volcano-tectonic interaction beneath the Centre Hills of Montserrat that are triggered by changes in the active magmatic system of Soufrière Hills Volcano (SHV). We also discuss our findings on subsurface mass variations in relation to annual precipitation records and active dome formation. Both continuous and discrete gravimetric observations indicate coupling between the dominant magmatic sources responsible for the ongoing eruption at SHV and shallow-seated local sources such as aquifers and fluid-saturated fault-damage zones. Our investigations demonstrate the value of including gravimetric observations over a wide frequency range for volcanic system characterization in a volcanic island arc setting. Supplementary material: Details on the inversion routine of the explorative source model GROWTH 2.0 and the resulting images from its application to time-lapse gravity data are available at http://www.geolsoc.org.uk/SUP18701 .

Exploring Differences in Pain Beliefs Within and Between a Large Nonclinical (Workplace) Population and a Clinical (Chronic Low Back Pain) Population Using the Pain Beliefs Questionnaire

Beliefs, cognitions, and behaviors relating to pain can be associated with a range of negative outcomes. In patients, certain beliefs are associated with increased levels of pain and related disability. There are few data, however, showing the extent to which beliefs of patients differ from those of the general population. This study explored pain beliefs in a large nonclinical population and a chronic low back pain (CLBP) sample using the Pain Beliefs Questionnaire (PBQ) to identify differences in scores and factor structures between and within the samples. This was a cross-sectional study. The samples comprised patients attending a rehabilitation program and respondents to a workplace survey. Pain beliefs were assessed using the PBQ, which incorporates 2 scales: organic and psychological. Exploratory factor analysis was used to explore variations in factor structure within and between samples. The relationship between the 2 scales also was examined. Patients reported higher organic scores and lower psychological scores than the nonclinical sample. Within the nonclinical sample, those who reported frequent pain scored higher on the organic scale than those who did not. Factor analysis showed variations in relation to the presence of pain. The relationship between scales was stronger in those not reporting frequent pain. This was a cross-sectional study; therefore, no causal inferences can be made. Patients experiencing CLBP adopt a more biomedical perspective on pain than nonpatients. The presence of pain is also associated with increased biomedical thinking in a nonclinical sample. However, the impact is not only on the strength of beliefs, but also on the relationship between elements of belief and the underlying belief structure.