bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dome-Shaped Macula Associated with Best Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy
Authors: Parodi Maurizio Battaglia , Zucchiatti Ilaria , Fasce Francesco , Cascavilla Maria Lucia , Cicinelli Maria Vittoria , Bandello Francesco
Published: November 2014

Purpose

Dome-shaped macula (DSM) has been described recently as an inward convexity of the macula typical of myopic eyes detectable on spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). The authors describe a case of monolateral DSM associated with Best vitelliform macular dystrophy (VMD).

Methods

Case report.

Results

A 60-year-old man already diagnosed with VMD in vitelliruptive stage underwent SD-OCT that revealed the typical vitelliform material accumulation associated in the left eye with a convex elevation of the macula. No change was registered over a 1-year follow-up.

Conclusions

This is the first report describing a monolateral DSM associated with VMD. Dome-shaped macula could be considered as a nonspecific scleral alteration, probably due to increased scleral thickness, which can accompany many retinal disorders.
Management of Pelvic Discontinuity in Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Abdelnasser Mohammad K. , Klenke Frank M. , Whitlock Patrick , Khalil Aly M. , Khalifa Yaser E. , Ali Hassan M. , Siebenrock Klaus A.
Published: November 2014

Pelvic discontinuity is a complex problem in revision total hip arthroplasty. Although rare, the incidence is likely to increase due to the ageing population and the increasing number of total hip arthroplasties being performed. The various surgical options available to solve this problem include plating, massive allografts, reconstruction rings, custom triflanged components and tantalum implants. However, the optimal solution remains controversial. None of the known methods completely solves the major obstacles associated with this problem, such as restoration of massive bone loss, implant failure in the short- and long-term and high complication rates. This review discusses the diagnosis, decision making, and treatment options of pelvic discontinuity in revision total hip arthroplasty.
Critique of “Identifying the bleeding trauma patient: predictive factors for massive transfusion in an Australasian trauma population”
Authors: Consunji Rafael , Peralta Ruben , Abdelrahman Husham , Mostafa Zeinab , Al-Hamzawi Hazim , Jogol Hisham Al , Alani Mushrek , Kanbar Ahad , El-Menyar Ayman , Al-Thani Hassan
Published: November 2014

Background: Military and civilian data would suggest that hemostatic resuscitation results in improved outcomes for exsanguinating patients. However, identification of those patients who are at risk of significant hemorrhage is not clearly defined. We attempted to identify factors that would predict the need for massive transfusion (MT) in an Australasian trauma population, by comparing those trauma patients who did receive massive transfusion with those who did not. Methods: Between 1985 and 2010, 1,686 trauma patients receiving at least 1 U of packed red blood cells were identified from our prospectively maintained trauma registry. Demographic, physiologic, laboratory, injury, and outcome variables were reviewed. Univariate analysis determined significant factors between those who received MT and those who did not. A predictive multivariate logistic regression model with backward conditional stepwise elimination was used for MT risk. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS PASW. Results: MT patients had a higher pulse rate, lower Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score, lower systolic blood pressure, lower hemoglobin level, higher Injury Severity Score (ISS), higher international normalized ratio (INR), and longer stay. Initial logistic regression identified base deficit (BD), INR, and hemoperitoneum at laparotomy as independent predictive variables. After assigning cutoff points of BD being greater than 5 and an INR of 1.5 or greater, a further model was created. A BD greater than 5 and either INR of 1.5 or greater or hemoperitoneum was associated with 51 times increase in MT risk (odds ratio, 51.6; 95% confidence interval, 24.9Y95.8). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for the model was 0.859. Conclusion: From this study, a combination of BD, INR, and hemoperitoneum has demonstrated good predictability for MT. This tool may assist in the determination of those patients who might benefit from hemostatic resuscitation.
Acute mastoiditis in children in the State of Qatar
Authors: Albaraznji Shihab Mohammed , Al Ansari Khalid , Radi Mayed Mohamed
Published: November 2014

Background:Acute mastoiditis is a serious complication of otitis media. Its diagnosis and treatment carry a great importance due to its potentially serious consequences. This study was designed to evaluate recent clinical experiences with pediatric acute mastoiditis in the State of Qatar. Our objectives were to highlight the importance of this disease and its possible complications, which emphasize the necessity of early diagnosis and proper treatment. We also assessed the commonality of this condition compared to some other countries as well as explored their experience in this regard.Materials and Methods:This is a retrospective study of all children ≤ 14 years presenting to the pediatric emergency centers (PEC) in the State of Qatar between January 2005 and December 2008, with a clinical diagnosis of acute mastoiditis supported by CT scan findings.Results:Twenty-seven patients were diagnosed with acute mastoiditis during the study period, with a mean age of 5.4 years. Only four children were diagnosed with otitis media and started on antibiotics a few days prior to presentation. The following signs and symptoms recorded on presentation were: fever in 77%, ear pain in 51%, ear discharge in 40%, postauricular swelling in 100%. The most frequent pathogen cultured by ear swab wasPseudomonas aeruginosa(in six out of sixteen patients who presented with ear discharge). One patient needed surgical intervention for mastoid abscess. There were two recorded complications of mastoid abscess in one patient that needed drainage and facial palsy in three patients. No mortality was reported during the study period.Conclusions:Acute mastoiditis in children is not uncommon in the State of Qatar. Full recovery with conservative treatment is noticed in most cases.Pseudomonas aeruginosais a common pathogen which indicates the need for broader systemic coverage in early diagnosis. Moreover, in order to promote adequate management and prevent inherently severe complications, great care is required from clinicians to reach early diagnosis. Involvement of the otolaryngology physician from the beginning is very significant.
Elective total knee arthroplasty in haemophilic patients
Authors: Strauss A. , Goldmann G. , Oldenburg J. , Wirtz D. C. , Pennekamp P. H. , Wallny T. A.
Published: November 2014

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) provides significant pain relief and better function in patients with end-stage haemophilic knee arthropathy. Peri- and postoperative care tends to be more complex than in non-haemophilic patients undergoing TKA and requires a multidisciplinary team approach. Aim: The implementation of standardized clinical pathways in non-haemophilic patients undergoing TKA has been shown to increase quality of care and to reduce postoperative complication rates. Consequently, the use of clinical pathways in haemophilic patients undergoing TKA may be beneficial to this particular subpopulation of patients. Methods: A clinical pathway for TKA for haemophilic patients was designed in a consensus process involving all participating departments. Results: We propose a specifically adjusted clinical pathway for TKA for haemophilic patients to show that standardization of elective orthopaedic surgery in haemophilia is feasible. Conclusion: The authors emphasize that there are limitations on categorizing haemophilic patients and stress that individual interdisciplinary treatment should take precedence over a standardized approach.
Lebensmittelkonsum und Ernährungs-verhalten bei Patienten mit Hämophilie vor und nach Ernährungsberatung
Authors: Hilberg W. , Poschmann J. , Straaten S. , Hilberg T. , Czepa D.
Published: November 2014

In over two-thirds of deaths, nutrition is a determining factor. Nutritional condition and dietary recommandations are unspecified in the haemophilia treatment. Aim of this study was to examine the food consumption and dietary behaviour in affected patients before and after a nutrition consultation. Patients, methods: Data were assessed via questionnaires and compared between 38 patients with haemophilia (PwH) and 20 controls without haemophilia. Furthermore, in a ran-domized controlled trial 11 patients with haemophilia (PwH-I) took part in an adapted nutrition consultation and were supervised over six months as opposed to 12 patients with haemophilia (PwH-O) without intervention. PwH were compared to controls more pleased with their weight (53 vs. 40%), used more nutrition consultations in the past (53 vs. 15%) and consumed more dairy products (40 vs. 15%) and fruits (45 vs. 30%). Results: After nutrition consultation PwH-I were better informed about their own blood values than PwH-O. The nutrition rated high in both groups, but PwH-I were more mindful of the feeling of satiety (9 vs. 36%) compared to PwH-O (33 vs. 17%). Moreover, PwH-I ate less under stress and/or out of boredom, showed a higher satisfaction regarding their weight and increased the liquid intake (55 vs. 73%), which remained unchanged in PwH-O with 42%. Compared to PwH-O, PwH-I ate more roughage, low-fat food, fish and fruits, therefore consuming less coffee/tea. Conclusion: Food consumption and dietary behaviour are similar between patients with haemo - philia and controls without haemophilia. A nutrition consultation affected the food consumption and dietary behaviour in patients with haemophilia positively and can consequently contribute to preservation of health and prevention of nutritional diseases.
Successful thrombolytic treatment of neonatal arterial thromboses
Authors: Dinger J. , Brenner S. , Hofmann S. R. , Ifflaender S. , Knöfler R. , Stächele J.
Published: November 2014

Compared to children of other age groups neonates show an increased thrombotic risk. The acute therapy depends on thrombus age, the localisation of vascular occlusion and the severity of the underlying disease. The treatment of choice is represented by the administration of unfractionated (UFH) or low molecular weight heparin (LMWH). If loss of limbs or organs is imminent, the application of thrombolytic treatment with recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator (rt-PA) should be considered whilst taking into account the associated bleeding risk. We report on two patients in which thrombolytic therapy has been conducted successfully.
Altersabhängige Ansteuerung der Muskulatur im Stand bei Patienten mit Hämophilie
Authors: Stäuber F. , Brunner A. , Czepa D. , Krüger S. , Wendel M. , Seuser A. , Hilberg T. , Göhler S.
Published: November 2014

The haemophilic arthropathy affects the function of the knee joint muscles. The aim of this study was to investigate the myoelectrical signal of knee joint muscles in different age stages during upright standing. Surface EMG (SEMG) amplitudes of quadriceps, hamstrings and gastrocnemii were measured in 191 patients with severe haemophilia A (n=164) and B (n=27) while standing on an even surface. After an age-based classification of patients into the subgroups HA: 17–29 (n = 37), HB: 30–39 (n = 50), HC: 40–49 (n = 61), HD: 50–70 in years (n = 43) the clinical WFH score for the ankle and knee joint was determined. To normalize the SEMG values amplitude ratios (percentage of cumulated activity) were calculated with respect to the specific limb. With increasing age, the patient showed descriptively a deterioration of the joint situation. The extensors of the knee joint reached significantly higher absolute and percentage levels in the muscle activity with increasing age (p < 0.05). The absolute amplitude values of the Mm. gastrocnemii showed no differences in the age groups while the relative levels were decreased.

The present study shows that patients with increasing age and degree of haemophilic arthro pathy deve lop a modified control strategy during upright standing, in the form of a shift from the plantar flexors to the extensors of the knee joint.
Evaluation of Cucurbita maxima Extract against Scopolamine- Induced Amnesia in Rats: Implication of Tumour Necrosis Factor Alpha
Authors: Jawaid Talha , Shakya Ashok K. , Siddiqui Hefazat Hussain , Kamal Mehnaz
Published: November 2014

Cucurbita maxima (CM) seed oil is commonly used in Indian folk medicine to treat various ailments. We have investigated the effect of CM seed oil on memory impairment induced by scopolamine in rats. Male adult Wistar rats were administered scopolamine 1 mg/kg body weight, i.p. or 1:25 mg/kg body weight, s.c. to induce memory impairment. The nootropic agent piracetam 100 mg/kg body weight, i.p. and CM seed oil 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight, p.o. were administered daily for five consecutive days. The memory function was evaluated in the Morris water maze (MWM) test, the social recognition test (SRT), the elevated plus maze (EPM) test, and the pole climbing test (PCT). Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and oxidative stress parameters were estimated in the cortex, hippocampus, and cerebellum of the brains after completion of the behavioural studies. The effects of scopolamine on the levels of the tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) transcript were also investigated. Scopolamine caused memory impairment in all the behavioural paradigms along with a significant increase in the AChE activity and oxidative stress in the brain. Scopolamine also caused a significant increase in the expression of TNF-α in the hippocampus. CM seed oil exhibited antiamnesic activity as indicated by a significant reduction in the latency time in the MWM test and decreased social interaction during trial 2 in the SRT. Further, treatment with CM seed oil significantly decreased the AChE activity and malondialdehyde levels and increased the glutathione level in brain regions. CM seed oil also significantly decreased the expression of TNF-α in the hippocampus. The effect of CM seed oil on behavioural and biochemical parameters was comparable to that observed in rats treated with piracetam. These results indicate that CM seed oil may exert antiamnesic activity which may be attributed to the inhibition of AChE and inflammation as well as its antioxidant activity in the brain.
Controlling Lead and Copper Rule Water Quality Parameters
Authors: Cornwell David , Brown Richard , McTigue Nancy
Published: November 2014

The Lead and Copper Rule (LCR), enacted in 1991, was implemented to reduce exposure to lead and copper at consumers' taps. Water suppliers were required to initiate treatment that would reduce corrosion in the distribution system and thereby limit the release of lead and copper. The LCR required the supplier to initiate this treatment, called optimized corrosion control treatment (OCCT), and to monitor for certain water quality parameters (WQPs) to demonstrate that the OCCT was in place. The intent of this study was to determine how well WQPs can be controlled at actual water treatment plants and in distribution systems. In general, the data analyzed in this study demonstrated that utilities can successfully control these parameters within certain ranges, but variability does occur. The use of control charts for monitoring and responding to demonstrated variability of these WQPs is also presented. The value of control charts in observing trends and reacting to variations where appropriate is described.
Treatment Options for a Potential cVOC Group Rule
Authors: Roth Damon K. , Cornwell David A. , Carpenter Adam T. , Roberson J. Alan
Published: November 2014

The US Environmental Protection Agency has identified carcinogenic volatile organic compounds (cVOCs) as the first group to be regulated under its new strategy for addressing contaminants as groups. Should this potential regulation be promulgated, utilities that currently do not treat for VOCs may need to implement best available technologies (BATs) for removing cVOCs. Utilities that currently treat for VOCs may need to improve or add BATs to ensure adequate treatment under the potential regulation. This article presents decision trees to assist utilities in selecting BATs on the basis of their particular groundwater source. The researchers contacted manufacturers of selected BAT equipment such as low‐profile aeration systems and granular activated carbon systems to obtain information on equipment footprints and costs for a range of flow rates and VOC removal rates. This information was used to project capital and operating costs as well as space requirements for those BATs.
Conhecimento de alunos do curso de Educação Física sobre avulsão dentária
Authors: Silva Evelyn Darly da , Siqueira Maria de Fátima Gabínio , Gomes Monalisa Cesarino , Clementino Marayza Alves , Garcia Ana Flávia Granville- , Ferreira Jainara Maria Soares
Published: November 2014

Objetivo: Avaliar o conhecimento dos acadêmicos do 5° ao 8° período do curso de Educação Física do Centro Universitário de João Pessoa (UNIPÊ) sobre a avulsão dentária. Materiais e Métodos: Um estudo transversal foi realizado com 70 acadêmicos de Educação Física, de uma universidade particular. O conhecimento sobre avulsão dentária foi avaliado a partir de um questionário contendo 10 questões objetivas acerca do tema proposto. Os dados coletados foram analisados pelo Programa Estatístico SPSS v.13.0 etrabalhados sob forma de estatística descritiva, por meio de números absolutos e percentuais. Resultados: Um total de 64,3% informou não ter estudado na graduação assuntos referentes a traumatismos dentários e95,7% dos pesquisados afirmaram não terem atendido casos de avulsão dentária. Os participantes afirmaram que lavariam o dente com água da torneira (20.0%) e os manteriam em recipientes sem líquido (21.4%).Conclusão: Os acadêmicos possuem conhecimentos limitados e a maioria não conhece os procedimentos para atendimento imediato em casos de avulsão dentária. Dessa forma, há necessidade de implantação de programas de educação e formação em procedimentos de primeiros socorros em relação à avulsão dentária, direcionado à professores de educação física e alunos de todas as instituições de ensino.Descritores: Avulsão dentária. Reimplante dentário. Educação em saúde.
Avaliação da utilização de aparelhos de raios-x em consultórios odontológicos em Belo Horizonte, Brasil
Authors: Castro Maurício Augusto Aquino de , Aguiar Viviane Lemos Frade , Santos Cláudio Roberto , Abreu Mara Valadares de , Abdo Evandro Neves , Ferreira Efigênia Ferreira e
Published: November 2014

Objetivo: Avaliar o conhecimento teórico e a prática radiológica dos cirurgiões dentistas no município de Belo Horizonte. Materiais e Métodos: Foi aplicado questionário para 256 dentistas registrados em Belo Horizonte, selecionados aleatoriamente, enfocando aspectos relacionados ao conhecimento teórico e à prática radiológica na clínica odontológica. Os dados foram analisados pormeio de análise de frequência e análise bivariada. Resultados: Dos entrevistados, 53,9% possuíam aparelhos de raios-X. Destes, 19,6% não conheciam o tipo de aparelho que utilizavam. Os profissionais com até 20 anos de formatura apresentaram maior conhecimento sobre as técnicas radiográficas e sobre as medidas de radioproteção e biossegurança, porém mostraram menor conhecimento sobre as características do aparelho que utilizavam. Por outro lado, os profissionais formados há mais de 21 anos demonstraram maior conhecimento sobre a aparelhagem e menor conhecimento em relação às técnicas radiográficas, medidas de radioproteção e biossegurança. A câmara portátil foi o ambiente de processamento mais utilizado. Conclusão: Detectou-se que a prática radiolgica apresenta problemas diferenciados, sugerindo a necessidade de melhorias na formação e atualização profissionais.Descritores: Radiografia dentária. Proteção radiológica. Condutas na prática dos dentistas.
Development of questionnaire on dentists’ knowledge of HIV/AIDS
Authors: Moura Mariela Dutra Gontijo , Gomes Cristiano Mauro Assis , Blanc Silvia López de , Mesquita Ricardo Alves , Ferreira Efigênia Ferreira e
Published: November 2014

Aim: This study aimed to construct and evaluate the cross-cultural adaptation of DK-HIV-Q in an Argentine Spanish version. Methods: A translation and back translation of the DK-HIV-Q questionnaire were completed, as the original questionnaire had been formulated in Portuguese by a Brazilian researcher. The DKHIV- Q was tested in two pilot studies conducted with Argentine dentists. Results: The committee of experts, consisting of three bilingual dentists, an epidemiology dentist, a general clinical dentist, and an oral pathologyspecialist, fully agreed on the conceptual relevance of the general domain and the 4-domain structure for the DK-HIV-Q, such as the declarative knowledge of the transmission of HIV/AIDS, the declarative knowledge of oral manifestations of HIV/AIDS, the procedural knowledge of proper dental practice, and the procedural knowledge of infection control measures. A final version of the DK-HIV-Q showed a satisfactory degree of semantic accuracy and semantic equivalence with the original version, and proved to be satisfactorilyconceptual and useful as an initial indicator for a subsequent study of construct validity. Conclusion: This study described the specific details of the construction of the DK-HIV-Q and aspects of the content validity process, which is one of the main procedures to be considered by healthcare researchers and professionalswho are interested in using reliable and appropriate measurements and instrument scales for given population groups, such as HIV/AIDS patients.Uniterms: HIV. Health knowledge, atitudes, practice. Questionnaires.
Tratamento odontológico prévio a transplante de células tronco-hematopoiéticas: um relato de caso
Authors: Melgaço da Costa José Leonardo Barbosa , De Souza Neila Clarisse , Pinto Júnior Aécio Abner Campos , Guimarães Abreu Mauro Henrique Nogueira , Gomez Ricardo Santiago , E Silva Maria Elisa de Souza
Published: November 2014

O linfoma é uma neoplasia malígna que se desenvolve nos gânglios linfáticos e uma possível abordagem terapêutica para esta doença é o transplante de medula óssea. Sob condições de imunossupressão, todo foco infeccioso pode ser ativado e, em função disto, toda infecção ativa em pacientes pré-transplantes de células hematopoiéticas deve ser erradicada previamente, para prevenir ou reduzir riscos de complicações sistêmicas nestes pacientes. Objetivo: Relatar um caso de atendimento odontológico a um paciente com necessidade premente de transplante de células tronco-hematopoiéticas, acometido de Linfoma não-Hodgkin.Descritores: Transplante de medula óssea. Assistência odontológica. Reabsorção da raiz.
Estudo exploratório sobre a prevalência de traumatismo dentário e obesidade em escolares de 12 anos de idade em Diamantina, Minas Gerais.
Authors: Paiva Paula Cristina Pelli , Paiva Haroldo Neves de , Filho Paulo Messias Oliveira , Lamounier Joel Alves , Zarzar Patrícia Maria
Published: November 2014

Objetivo: O objetivo foi analisar a prevalência de traumatismo dentário em escolares com 12 anos de idade, na cidade de Diamantina, MG, avaliando ainda a associação com fatores demográficos e clínicos. Materiais e Métodos: A amostra foi composta por 101 escolares (46,5% do sexo masculino e 53,5% do sexo feminino) selecionados de escolas públicas e privadas. O exame clínico foi realizado por um dentista treinado e calibrado adotando a classificação de Andreasen et al. A condição socioeconômica foi investigada por meiodo questionário ABA-ABIPEME, renda familiar e escolaridade da mãe. A obesidade foi medida pelo índice de massa corporal (IMC= peso [kg] / altura [m2]), por sexo e idade. Foram realizadas análises de frequência e testede associação (p<0,05). Resultados: A prevalência de traumatismo dentário foi 33,7%, a principal lesão a fratura de esmalte (57,7%) e o tratamento mais prevalente a restauração estética com compósito (5,9%). A maioriadas crianças apresentou apenas um dente acometido (94,1%), sendo o incisivo central o dente mais afetado. O traumatismo dentário em 77,8% dos escolares ocorreu há mais de um ano. Houve associação estatisticamente significativa entre o sexo masculino Odds Ratio (OR) – 2,54 e Intervalo de Confiança (IC) 95%=1,090-5,951 (p=0,029), sobressaliência acentuada OR – 6,648 (IC95%=2,591-7,057) (p=0,001), proteção labial inadequada OR – 4,977 (IC95%=2,001-12,376) (p<0,0001) e a presença de traumatismo dentário. O traumatismo dentário não esteve estatisticamente associado à classe socioeconômica (p=0,579), escolaridade da mãe (p=0,249) e IMC (p=0,776). Conclusão: A prevalência de traumatismo dentário aos 12 anos foi elevada, estando associada ao gênero e aos fatores clínicos sobressaliência acentuada e proteção labial inadequada, porém semelhantes entre as classes ocioeconômicas e padrões nutricionais.Descritores: Traumatismos dentários. Saúde bucal. Dentição permanente. Adolescente. Índice de massacorporal.
La publicidad y la agencia de medios frente al cambio en el ecosistema mediático
Authors:   Universidad Pompeu Fabra (España), Martín-Guart Ramon , Fernández Cavia José ,   Universidad Pompeu Fabra (España)
Published: November 2014

El sector de la publicidad vive una situación de cambio estructural, consecuencia de una mayor cercanía entre tecnología y medios de comunicación. El objetivo de este artículo es reflexionar sobre los desafíos a los que se enfrentará el profesional de la publicidad en este nuevo ecosistema mediático. Para ello se ha planteado una investigación exploratoria destinada a recabar la opinión de los profesionales mediante una encuesta vía Internet, distribuida en España y Latinoamérica principalmente. Los resultados plasman cómo la división actual de medios tradicionales tiende a una conversión multiplataforma que facilita que el individuo acceda permanentemente a contenidos audiovisuales. En este sentido, surgen nuevos puntos de contacto con el consumidor, derivados de la interacción con los dispositivos móviles y las redes sociales, evolucionando hacia el marketing 4.0, donde prevalece la predicción y la capacidad de anticipar tendencias, ya que cada marca debe conocer lo que el cliente necesita antes de que lo requiera.
Cloud formation, convection, and stratospheric dehydration
Authors: Schoeberl Mark R. , Dessler Andrew E. , Wang Tao , Avery Melody A. , Jensen Eric J.
Published: November 2014

Using the Modern‐Era Retrospective Analysis for Research and Applications (MERRA) reanalysis winds, temperatures, and anvil cloud ice, we use our domain‐filling, forward trajectory model combined with a new cloud module to show that convective transport of saturated air and ice to altitudes below the tropopause has a significant impact on stratospheric water vapor and upper tropospheric clouds. We find that including cloud microphysical processes (rather than assuming that parcel water vapor never exceeds saturation) increases the lower stratospheric average H2O by 10–20%. Our model‐computed cloud fraction shows reasonably good agreement with tropical upper troposphere (TUT) cloud frequency observed by the Cloud‐Aerosol Lidar with Orthogonal Polarization (CALIOP) instrument in boreal winter with poorer agreement in summer. Our results suggest that over 40% of TUT cirrus is due to convection, and it is the saturated air from convection rather than injected cloud ice that primarily contributes to this increase. Convection can add up to 13% more water to the stratosphere. With just convective hydration (convection adds vapor up to saturation), the global lower stratospheric modeled water vapor is close to Microwave Limb Sounder observations. Adding convectively injected ice increases the modeled water vapor to ~8% over observations. Improving the representation of MERRA tropopause temperatures fields reduces stratospheric water vapor by ~4%.
Sensitivity of tropical forest aboveground productivity to climate anomalies in SW Costa Rica
Authors: Hofhansl Florian , Kobler Johannes , Ofner Joachim , Drage Sigrid , Pölz Eva‐Maria , Wanek Wolfgang
Published: November 2014

The productivity of tropical forests is driven by climate (precipitation, temperature, and light) and soil fertility (geology and topography). While large‐scale drivers of tropical productivity are well established, knowledge on the sensitivity of tropical lowland net primary production to climate anomalies remains scarce. We here analyze seven consecutive years of monthly recorded tropical forest aboveground net primary production (ANPP) in response to a recent El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) anomaly. The ENSO transition period resulted in increased temperatures and decreased precipitation during the El Niño dry period, causing a decrease in ANPP. However, the subsequent La Niña wet period caused strong increases in ANPP such that drought‐induced reductions were overcompensated. Most strikingly, the climatic controls differed between canopy production (CP) and wood production (WP). Whereas CP showed strong seasonal variation but was not affected by ENSO, WP decreased significantly in response to a 3°C increase in annual maximum temperatures during the El Niño period but subsequently recovered to above predrought levels during the La Niña period. Moreover, the climate sensitivity of tropical forest ANPP components was affected by local topography (water availability) and disturbance history (species composition). Our results suggest that projected increases in temperature and dry season length could impact tropical carbon sequestration by shifting ANPP partitioning toward decreased WP, thus decreasing the carbon storage of highly productive lowland forests. We conclude that the impact of climate anomalies on tropical forest productivity is strongly related to local site characteristics and will therefore likely prevent uniform responses of tropical lowland forests to projected global changes.
High‐pressure melting of MgO from (Mg,Fe)O solid solutions
Authors: Du Zhixue , Lee Kanani K. M.
Published: November 2014

Magnesium oxide (MgO) is a significant component of planetary interiors, particularly Earth's mantle and other rocky planets within and beyond our solar system; thus its high‐pressure, high‐temperature behavior is important to understanding the thermochemical evolution of planets. Laser‐heated diamond‐anvil cell (DAC) experiments on (Mg,Fe)O ferropericlase up to ~40 GPa show that previous DAC experiments on MgO melting are too low, while previous multi‐anvil experiments yield melting temperatures too high. Instead, our quasi‐static experimental results are consistent with recent ab initio predictions as well as dynamic shock measurements. Extrapolated to the core‐mantle boundary (CMB) of the Earth, MgO is expected to melt at ~8000 ± 500 K, much greater than expected geotherm temperatures.
Correcting oceanic O2/Ar‐net community production estimates for vertical mixing using N2O observations
Authors: Cassar Nicolas , Nevison Cynthia D. , Manizza Manfredi
Published: November 2014

The O2/Ar approach has become a key method to estimate oceanic net community production (NCP). However, in some seasons and regions of the ocean, strong vertical mixing of O2‐depleted deepwater introduces a large error into O2/Ar‐derived NCP estimates. In these cases, undersaturated‐O2/Ar observations have for all intents and purposes been ignored. We propose to combine underway O2/Ar and N2O observations into a composite tracer that is conservative with respect to the influence of vertical mixing on the surface biological O2 inventory. We test the proposed method with an ocean observing system simulation experiment (OSSE) in which we compare N2O‐O2/Ar and O2/Ar‐only gas flux estimates of NCP to the model‐simulated true NCP in the Southern Ocean. Our proof‐of‐concept simulations show that the N2O‐O2/Ar tracer significantly improves NCP estimates when/where vertical mixing is important.
Effects of realistic land surface initializations on subseasonal to seasonal soil moisture and temperature predictability in North America and in changing climate simulated by CCSM4
Authors: Kumar Sanjiv , Dirmeyer Paul A. , Lawrence David M. , DelSole Timothy , Altshuler Eric L. , Cash Benjamin A. , Fennessy Michael J. , Guo Zhichang , Kinter James L. , Straus David M.
Published: November 2014

Fully coupled global climate model experiments are performed using the Community Climate System Model version 4.0 (CCSM4) for preindustrial, present, and future climate to study the effects of realistic land surface initializations on subseasonal to seasonal climate forecasts. Model forecasts are verified against model control simulations (perfect model experiments), thus overcoming to some extent issues of uncertainties in the observations and/or model parameterizations. Findings suggest that realistic land surface initialization is important for climate predictability at subseasonal to seasonal time scales. We found the highest predictability for soil moisture, followed by evapotranspiration, temperature, and precipitation. The predictability is highest for the 16 to 30 days forecast period, and it progressively decreases for the second and third month forecasts. We found significant changes in the spatial distributions of temperature predictability in the present and future climate compared to the preindustrial climate, although the spatial average changes for North America were rather small (<10%). To attribute the potential cause of changes in land‐driven temperature predictability, they are correlated with the changes in land related climate metrics. The changes in temperature predictability are positively (0.40), and negatively (−0.35) correlated with the changes in nonrainy days evaporative fraction, and changes in dryness index respectively. From this result, the hypothesis arises that wetter conditions favor higher land‐driven temperature predictability in North America. We tested the hypothesis by rearranging the predictability experiment ensembles and found support for the hypothesis in the midlatitude regions and short‐term forecasts (16 to 30 days).
Influence of irrigation on land hydrological processes over California
Authors: Sorooshian Soroosh , AghaKouchak Amir , Li Jialun
Published: November 2014

In this study, a regional climate model (RCM) is employed to investigate the effect of irrigation on hydrology over California through implementing a “realistic irrigation” scheme. Our results indicate that the RCM with a realistic irrigation scheme commonly practiced in California can capture the soil moisture and evapotranspiration (ET) variation very well in comparison with the available in situ and remote sensing data. The RCM results show significant improvement in comparison with those outputs from the default run and the commonly used runs with fixed soil moisture at field capacity. Furthermore, the model reproduces the observed decreasing trends of the reference ET (i.e., ET0) from the California Irrigation Management Information System (CIMIS). The observed decreasing trend is most likely due to the decreasing trend of downward solar radiation shown by models and CIMIS observations. This issue is fundamental in projecting future irrigation water demand. The deep soil percolation rate changes depending on the irrigation method and irrigation duration. Finally, the model results show that precipitation change due to irrigation in California is relatively small in amount and mainly occurs along the midlatitudes in the western United States.
Seasonal evapotranspiration changes (1983–2006) of four large basins on the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Li Xiuping , Wang Lei , Chen Deliang , Yang Kun , Wang Aihui
Published: November 2014

Lack of reliable historical basin‐scale evapotranspiration (ET) estimates is a bottleneck for water balance analyses and model evaluation on the Tibetan Plateau (TP). This study looks at four large basins on the TP to develop a general approach suitable for large river basins to estimate historical monthly ET. Five existing global ET products are evaluated against monthly ET estimated by the water balance method as a residual from precipitation (P), terrestrial water storage change (ΔS), and discharge (R). The five ET products exhibit similar seasonal variability, despite of the different amounts among them. A bias correction method, based on the probability distribution mapping between the reference ET and the five products during 2003–2012, effectively removes nearly all biases and significantly increases the reliability of the products. Then, the surface water balance changes for the four basins are analyzed based on the corrected ET products as well as observed P and R during 1983–2006. A trend analysis shows an upward trend for ET in the four basins for all seasons during the past three decades, along with the regional warming, as well as a dominating increasing trend in P and negative trend in R.
Small crater modification on Meridiani Planum and implications for erosion rates and climate change on Mars
Authors: Golombek M. P. , Warner N. H. , Ganti V. , Lamb M. P. , Parker T. J. , Fergason R. L. , Sullivan R.
Published: November 2014

A morphometric and morphologic catalog of ~100 small craters imaged by the Opportunity rover over the 33.5 km traverse between Eagle and Endeavour craters on Meridiani Planum shows craters in six stages of degradation that range from fresh and blocky to eroded and shallow depressions ringed by planed off rim blocks. The age of each morphologic class from <50–200 ka to ~20 Ma has been determined from the size‐frequency distribution of craters in the catalog, the retention age of small craters on Meridiani Planum, and the age of the latest phase of ripple migration. The rate of degradation of the craters has been determined from crater depth, rim height, and ejecta removal over the class age. These rates show a rapid decrease from ~1 m/Myr for craters <1 Ma to ~ <0.1 m/Myr for craters 10–20 Ma, which can be explained by topographic diffusion with modeled diffusivities of ~10−6 m2/yr. In contrast to these relatively fast, short‐term erosion rates, previously estimated average erosion rates on Mars over ~100 Myr and 3 Gyr timescales from the Amazonian and Hesperian are of order <0.01 m/Myr, which is 3–4 orders of magnitude slower than typical terrestrial rates. Erosion rates during the Middle‐Late Noachian averaged over ~250 Myr, and ~700 Myr intervals are around 1 m/Myr, comparable to slow terrestrial erosion rates calculated over similar timescales. This argues for a wet climate before ~3 Ga in which liquid water was the erosional agent, followed by a dry environment dominated by slow eolian erosion.
Hot carbon corona in Mars' upper thermosphere and exosphere: 2. Solar cycle and seasonal variability
Authors: Lee Yuni , Combi Michael R. , Tenishev Valeriy , Bougher Stephen W.
Published: November 2014

This work presents the variability over seasons (i.e., orbital position) and solar cycle of the Martian upper atmosphere and hot carbon corona. We investigate the production and distribution of energetic carbon atoms and the impacts on the total global hot carbon loss from dominant photochemical processes at five different cases: AL (aphelion and low solar activity), EL (equinox and low solar activity), EH (equinox and high solar activity), PL (perihelion and low solar activity), and PH (perihelion and high solar activity). We compare our results with previously published results but only on the limited cases due to the dearth of studies on solar EUV flux and seasonal variabilities. Photodissociation of CO and dissociative recombination of CO+are generally regarded as the two most important source reactions for the production of hot atomic carbon. Of these two, photodissociation of CO is found to be the dominant source in all cases considered. To describe self‐consistently the exosphere and the upper thermosphere, a 3‐D kinetic particle simulator, the Adaptive Mesh Particle Simulator, and the 3‐D Mars Thermosphere General Circulation Model are one‐way coupled. The basic description of this hot carbon calculation can be found in the companion paper to this one. The spatial distributions and profiles of density and temperature and atmospheric loss rates are discussed for the cases considered. Finally, our computed global escape rate of hot carbon ranges from 5.28 × 1023 s−1(AL) to 55.1 × 1023 s−1(PL).
Evaluation of Serum Interleukin‐6 Level as a Surrogate Marker of Synovial Inflammation and as a Factor of Structural Progression in Early Rheumatoid Arthritis: Results From a French National Multicenter Cohort
Authors: Baillet Athan , Gossec Laure , Paternotte Simon , Etcheto Adrien , Combe Bernard , Meyer Olivier , Mariette Xavier , Gottenberg Jacques‐Eric , Dougados Maxime
Published: November 2014

Objective

Interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) is a key cytokine in rheumatoid arthritis pathogenesis. We aimed to analyze the association between IL‐6 serum levels and joint inflammation at baseline and the correlation of time‐integrated IL‐6 values with structural damage during the first 36 months of early arthritis.

Methods

IL‐6 was assessed by 2 different methods in 813 patients of the French early arthritis cohort ESPOIR (Etude et Suivi des Polyarthrites Indifférenciées Récentes) over 36 months. IL‐6 and C‐reactive protein (CRP) changes were correlated to radiographic progression assessed by the total Sharp/van der Heijde score (SHS). Synovium inflammation was assessed in a subgroup of 126 patients by ultrasonography (US). The relationship between SHS change and IL‐6 or CRP levels at baseline was investigated by a univariate regression and a multivariable analysis. A longitudinal model nested by visit and patient was conducted to assess the role of IL‐6 on SHS at each visit.

Results

At baseline, IL‐6 was more strongly correlated with the swollen joint count than CRP level. In the univariate analysis, the time‐integrated value of IL‐6 was more strongly correlated with the swollen joint count and the variation of SHS than time‐integrated CRP level. Baseline IL‐6 was not independently associated with SHS change. Longitudinal models nested by patient showed that IL‐6 levels were associated with structural damage independently from the Disease Activity Score in 28 joints, smoking status, rheumatoid factor, and anti–citrullinated protein peptide antibody serology, treatments, and CRP levels.

Conclusion

IL‐6 level was a marker of US synovitis at baseline. Repeated measurements of IL‐6 are associated with structural damage.
Critical Appraisal of Studies Measuring Quality of Life in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Authors: Adunuri Nikesh Reddy , Feldman Brian Michael
Published: November 2014

Objective

To critically evaluate studies purporting to measure quality of life (QOL) or health‐related QOL (HRQOL) in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) by assessing the face validity of studies via a predefined set of criteria based on Gill and Feinstein (1994).

Methods

Systematic review was conducted of studies in Medline, Embase, and PsycInfo purporting to measure QOL or HRQOL in JIA. Studies were evaluated based on a set of 8 yes/no criteria set forth by Gill and Feinstein in 1994.

Results

Thirty‐four of 50 studies (68%) purported to measure HRQOL, 13 of 50 (26%) measured QOL, and 3 of 50 (6%) measured both QOL and HRQOL. The descriptive analysis of studies is as follows: 22 of 50 studies (44%) explained and defined the authors' meaning of QOL or HRQOL, 42 of 50 studies (84%) stated and explained the domains of the instruments used to measure QOL and HRQOL, authors gave reasons for using a particular instrument in 25 of 50 studies (50%), 14 of 50 studies (28%) asked the patients to give their own global rating, 4 of 50 study authors (8%) tried to differentiate QOL from HRQOL, 5 of 50 authors (10%) provided an opportunity for patients to add items to an instrument, 30 of 50 study authors (60%) reported providing the patients with an opportunity to rate items of importance, and 18 of 50 studies (36%) reported an overall composite score for QOL or HRQOL.

Conclusion

Our results show that the face validity of studies measuring QOL in JIA is not up to the standards and recommendations set forth by Gill and Feinstein in 1994.
Temporal Effect of Depressive Symptoms on the Longitudinal Evolution of Rheumatoid Arthritis Disease Activity
Authors: Rathbun Alan M. , Harrold Leslie R. , Reed George W.
Published: November 2014

Objective

Depression is common in the rheumatoid arthritis (RA) population, yet little is known of its effect on the course of disease activity. The aim of our study was to determine if prevalent and incident depressive symptoms influenced longitudinal changes in RA disease activity.

Methods

RA patients with and without depressive symptoms were identified using single‐item questions from an existing registry sample. Mixed‐effects models were used to examine changes in disease activity over 2 years in those with and without prevalent and incident depressive symptoms. Outcome variables included composite disease activity, joint counts, global assessments, pain, function, and acute‐phase reactants. Model‐based outcome estimations at the index dates and corresponding 1‐ and 2‐year changes were calculated.

Results

Rates of disease activity change were significantly different in patients with a lifetime prevalence of symptomology, but not incident depressive symptoms, when compared to controls. Prior symptoms were associated with slower rates of disease activity decline, evidenced by the estimated 1‐year Clinical Disease Activity Index changes: −3.0 (−3.3, −2.6) and −4.0 (−4.3, −3.6) in patients with and without lifetime prevalence, respectively. Analogous results were obtained for most of the other disease activity outcomes; although, there was no temporal effect of prevalent symptoms of depression on swollen joints and acute‐phase reactants.

Conclusion

Depressive symptoms temporally influence the evolution of RA disease activity, and the magnitude is dependent on the time of symptomatic onset. However, the effect is limited to patient‐reported pain, global assessment, and function, as well as physician‐reported global assessment and tender joints.
Silicon‐Based Current‐Controlled Reconfigurable Magnetoresistance Logic Combined with Non‐Volatile Memory
Authors: Luo Zhaochu , Zhang Xiaozhong , Xiong Chengyue , Chen Jiaojiao
Published: November 2014

Silicon‐based complementary metal‐oxide‐semiconductor (CMOS) transistors have achieved great success. However, the traditional development pathway is approaching its fundamental limits. Magnetoelectronics logic, especially magnetic‐field‐based logic, shows promise for surpassing the development limits of CMOS logic and arouses profound attentions. Existing proposals of magnetic‐field‐based logic are based on exotic semiconductors and difficult for further technological implementation. Here, a kind of diode‐assisted geometry‐enhanced low‐magnetic‐field magnetoresistance (MR) mechanism is proposed. It couples p‐n junction's nonlinear transport characteristic and Lorentz force by geometry, and shows extremely large low‐magnetic‐field MR (>120% at 0.15 T). Further, it is applied to experimentally demonstrate current‐controlled reconfigurable magnetoresistance logic on the silicon platform at room temperature. This logic device could perform all four basic Boolean logic including AND, OR, NAND and NOR in one device. Combined with non‐volatile magnetic memory, this logic architecture with unique magnetoelectric properties has the advantages of current‐controlled reconfiguration, zero refresh consumption, instant‐on performance and would bridge the processor‐memory gap. Our findings would pave the way in silicon‐based magnetoelectronics and offer a route to make a new kind of microprocessor with potential of high performance.