A Markov random field spatio-temporal analysis of ocean temperature

The National Oceanic Data Center (NODC) contains historical records from approximately 144,000 hydrographic stations in the North Atlantic. This data has been used by oceanographers to construct maps of point estimates of pressure, temperature, salinity and oxygen in the North Atlantic (Levitus (1994); Lozier et al. (1995)). Because data from any particular year are scarce, the previous maps have been for time-averaged values only. In addition, the maps have been reported without uncertainty estimates. This paper presents a Markov random field (MRF) analysis that can generate maps for specific time periods along with associated uncertainties. To estimate changes in oceanic properties over time previous oceanographic work has focused on differences between a few time periods each having many observations. Due to data scarcity this poses a severe restriction for both spatial and temporal coverage of climatic change. The MRF analysis provides a means for temporal modeling that does not require high data density at each time period. To demonstrate the usefulness of a MRF analysis of oceanic data we investigate the temporal variability along 24.5°N in the North Atlantic. Our results are compared to an earlier analysis (Parrilla et al. (1994)) where data from only three time periods was used. We obtain a more thorough understanding of the temperature change found by this previous study.     

Abnormalities of the foetal cerebral cortex

Prenatal ultrasound has concentrated on readily visible cerebral structures including head size, shape, ventricles, CSP (cavum septi pellucidi), cerebellar size/vermian presence and cisterna magna. However, apart from these easily visible structures it is important to evaluate the brain itself. Patients who initially appear to have mild isolated findings such as borderline ventriculomegaly in fact can have many more subtle findings that significantly alter prognosis and management that can be detected on detailed examination of the brain. There has been rapid evolution in imaging these foetuses, especially with neurosonography and MRI, and a revolution in understanding the underlying genetic and biochemical mechanisms. There is increasing emphasis to detect cortical abnormalities as early as possible. This article reviews development of the cerebral cortex, the classification, aetiologies and clinical manifestations of cortical disorders, normal and abnormal appearances at ultrasound and MRI, and approaches to investigation. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Interagency Resource Teams: a Model for Collaborative Approaches to Environmental Education

Abstract: The Undergraduate Interagency Resource Teams at the White Mountain Research Station of the University of California were created in 1994 to support resource-agency mandates and academic research objectives by providing qualified students who can learn, apply, and improve research and agency monitoring protocols. Drawing from documented elements of other successful internship programs, we identified four basic components that we believe may enhance the potential success of the interns: (1) self-directed learning methodologies, (2) multidisciplinary approaches to science, (3) reflection on and documentation of intern learning, and (4) principles of a positive work environment, including teamwork, conflict resolution, and effective communication. During a 10-week summer session, the Interagency Resource Teams expose approximately 17 students to the professional worlds of natural resource agencies and research scientists. In this environment, we have also observed that the internship program not only exposes students to resource management careers but may also help bridge the gap between resource agency specialists and academic researchers.