bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The leishmanicidal effect of (3S)‐16,17‐didehydrofalcarinol, an oxylipin isolated from Tridax procumbens, is independent of NO production
Authors: Martín‐Quintal Zhelmy , del Rosario García‐Miss María , Mut‐Martín Mirza , Matus‐Moo Abril , Torres‐Tapia Luis W. , Peraza‐Sánchez Sergio R.
Published: December 2009

The in vitro leishmanicidal effect of (3S)‐16,17‐didehydrofalcarinol (1) isolated from Tridax procumbens whole plant against Leishmania mexicana, the causative agent of cutaneous leishmaniasis (chiclero's ulcer) in the New World, was investigated. This oxylipin showed significant in vitro activity against promastigotes and intracellular amastigotes of L. mexicana. Its inhibitory effect on amastigotes was not due to activation of NO in recombinant γ‐interferon‐stimulated macrophages, since the production of NO was decreased in presence of the oxylipin. This is the first report on the leishmanicidal activity against the intracellular stage (amastigote) of the oxylipin (3S)‐16,17‐didehydrofalcarinol. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
River flood plains are model ecosystems to test general hydrogeomorphic and ecological concepts
Authors: Tockner Klement , Lorang Mark S. , Stanford Jack A.
Published: December 2009

A major challenge in ecology is to link patterns and processes across different spatial and temporal scales. Flood plains are ideal model ecosystems to study (i) the processes that create and maintain environmental heterogeneity and (ii) to quantify the effects of environmental heterogeneity on ecosystem functioning and biodiversity. Fluvial processes of cut‐and‐fill alluviation create new channels, bars and benches within a flood plain that in turn provides new surface for subsequent vegetative recruitment and growth resulting in a shifting mosaic of interconnected aquatic and terrestrial habitat patches. Composition and spatial arrangement of these habitat patches control the movement of organisms and matter among adjacent patches; and the capacity of a habitat to process matter depends on the productivity of adjacent patches and on the exchange among these patches. The exchange of matter and organisms among habitats of different age and productivity is often pulsed in nature. Small pulses of a physical driver (e.g. short‐term increase in flow) can leach large amounts of nutrients thereby stimulating primary production in adjacent aquatic patches, or trigger mass emergence of aquatic insects that may in turn impact recipient terrestrial communities. Hence, biodiversity in a river corridor context is hierarchically structured and strongly linked to the dynamic biophysical processes and feedback mechanisms that drive these chronosequences over broad time and space scales. Today, the active conversion of degraded ecosystems back to a more heterogeneous and dynamic state has become an important aspect of restoration and management where maintaining or allowing a return to the shifting habitat mosaic dynamism is the goal with the expected outcome greater biodiversity and clean water among other valuable ecosystem goods and services. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Compact plasma source for removal of hydrocarbons for surface analysis
Authors: Dukes Catherine A. , Baragiola Raúl A.
Published: December 2009

A low–energy, constricted‐anode Anders‐type plasma source was built and tested for the chemical removal of adventitious carbon on surfaces. Oxygen plasma, generated in the source, extends to the sample surface through an aperture in the anode. This plasma reacts with surface hydrocarbons and removes them in less than a minute without influencing the intrinsic surface stoichiometry of nonoxidizing samples such as minerals, glasses, and metal oxides. Adventitious carbon removal is critical for accurate binding energy determination and quantitative measurements in XPS and AES, particularly in multicomponent materials. We measure the plasma to be composed primarily of O+ and O2+, with minor H+, H2+, and O++ components. Ion energy distributions were measured for O+ and O++ and show all emitted ions have energies less than 50 eV, confirming chemical desorption as the primary removal mechanism. The plasma source, easily built ‘in house’, is compact and can be mounted on a 2.75‐in flange for in situ specimen cleaning prior to surface analysis. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A secondary reanalysis of student perceptions of non‐traditional writing tasks over a ten year period
Authors: McDermott Mark A. , Hand Brian
Published: December 2009

This study aims to add to the growing research related to the implementation of non‐traditional writing tasks in classrooms to encourage science literacy. A secondary reanalysis methodology was employed to review student interviews collected as a part of several individual studies during a ten year research program. This method established an interpretive framework different than the particular frameworks guiding the individual studies. In doing so, a greater ability to generalize findings was sought. Main assertions emerging from the student responses analyzed include recognition of benefits of non‐traditional writing, recognition of the need for particular task characteristics to encourage these benefits, and recognition of greater cognitive activity than is present in typical science classroom writing. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 47: 518–539, 2010
In‐utero evaluation of the fetal umbilical–portal venous system: two‐ and three‐dimensional ultrasonic study
Authors: Kivilevitch Z. , Gindes L. , Deutsch H. , Achiron R.
Published: December 2009

Objectives

To describe the normal anatomy of the fetal umbilical–portal venous system (UPVS) and to assess possible anatomical variants of the main portal vein (MPV) insertion into the portal sinus (PS).

Methods

This was a prospective cross‐sectional study of low‐risk patients between 14 and 36 weeks of gestation. Two‐ (2D) and three‐dimensional (3D) ultrasound techniques combined with color and high‐definition flow Doppler were used to evaluate the fetal UPVS. The standard transverse plane of the fetal upper abdomen, used for measuring the abdominal circumference, was taken in all cases as the point of reference. A longitudinal section was taken to identify the normal course of the umbilical vein and ductus venosus (DV). We performed offline analysis of all gray‐scale and color Doppler 2D and 3D volume datasets.

Results

Two hundred and eight fetuses were included in the study. The umbilical vein was observed to course in a cephalad direction from its entry point into the fetal abdomen, joining the L‐shaped PS, a confluence of vessels that is the main segment of the left portal vein (LPV). Three branches emerge from the LPV: two to the left, the inferior and superior branches, and one to the right, the medial branch. The main LPV then courses abruptly to the right. Following the emergence of the DV, the communication of the MPV with the LPV marks the point at which the vessel becomes the right portal vein (RPV), giving rise to its anterior and posterior branches. We were able to define three main variants of connection between the MPV and the PS. In 140 (67.3%) fetuses the MPV was connected to the LPV in an end‐to‐side T‐shaped anastomosis, in 26 (12.5%) fetuses the MPV connected with a side‐to‐side X‐shaped anastomosis and in 30 (14.4%) fetuses the two vessels ran in parallel with a short communicating segment, in an H‐shaped anastomosis. In the remaining 12 (5.7%) cases classification into one of these three groups was not possible due to intermediate morphology.

Conclusions

Knowing the normal anatomy of the UPVS and being aware of the possible variants of the connection between the MPV and the PS is a fundamental requirement for accurate prenatal diagnosis of the anomalies of the fetal UPVS. Copyright © 2009 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Increased nuchal translucency with normal karyotype: a follow‐up study of 100 cases supplemented with CGH and MLPA analyses
Authors: Schou K. V. , Kirchhoff M. , Nygaard U. , Jørgensen C. , Sundberg K.
Published: December 2009

Objective

To evaluate whether high‐resolution comparative genomic hybridization (HR‐CGH) and subtelomeric and syndrome‐specific multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MLPA) would detect minor chromosomal aberrations in fetuses with increased nuchal translucency thickness (NT) and normal karyotype on conventional karyotyping.

Methods

Chorionic villus samples from 100 fetuses with NT ≥ 99th percentile and normal G‐banding analysis and MLPA for detection of aneuploidies for chromosomes 13, 18, 21, X and Y were included. Examinations were supplemented by HR‐CGH and MLPA for syndromes and subtelomeric regions. Pregnancy outcome was followed up.

Results

Among 80 liveborn children who were followed up, three (4%) had syndromes involving mental retardation, including a case of Sotos syndrome caused by a de novo mutation. 15% of fetuses were lost during pregnancy due to abnormalities and termination. The rate of adverse outcome overall was 18%. HR‐CGH and MLPA did not detect any chromosomal aberrations associated with the syndromes.

Conclusion

The rate of adverse outcome was similar to levels recorded in the literature. Using CGH and MLPA did not increase the detection rate of genetic disease, which supports the current approach of repeated ultrasound examinations in these high‐risk pregnancies. Copyright © 2009 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Defects on endoanal ultrasound and anal incontinence after primary repair of fourth‐degree anal sphincter rupture: a study of the anal sphincter complex and puborectal muscle
Authors: Sakse A. , Secher N. J. , Ottesen M. , Starck M.
Published: December 2009

Objectives

To perform three‐dimensional endoanal ultrasound (EAUS) after primary repair of fourth‐degree anal sphincter rupture (ASR) and correlate the sonographic defects with anal incontinence (AI); to measure the axial and sagittal thickness and angle of the puborectal muscle (PRM) as well as the length of the anal canal, and then correlate these measures with AI; and to assess the interobserver measurement agreement between an inexperienced and an experienced sonologist.

Methods

EAUS was offered to 84 consecutive women, who were asked to answer a validated questionnaire after fourth‐degree ASR. AI was graded according to the Wexner score and EAUS defects were graded according to the Starck score.

Results

Sixty‐one women (73%) answered the questionnaire. The median (range) follow‐up time was 5.1 (1.3–8.7) years. Thirty‐three (54%) of these women underwent EAUS and were included in the study. There was no difference in the incontinence scores between women who underwent EAUS and those who did not. Eleven of the women who underwent EAUS (33%) were continent, 22 women (67%) had flatus incontinence at least once a month, of whom 12 also had incontinence for liquid stool and two had incontinence for solid stool. The median Wexner score was 2 (range, 0–12). Five of the patients (15%) had no ultrasound defects. All of the patients with Wexner scores ≥ 4 had a Starck score of ≥ 10. No association between ultrasound defects and AI was demonstrated, however, the angle of the PRM and parity were associated with Starck score. No clear association between the measurements of the PRM and AI was shown. The experienced observer detected more of the small defects than did the inexperienced observer.

Conclusion

In a 1–9‐year follow‐up period after primary suture of fourth‐degree ASR, the frequency of AI was high, at 67%. No clear association was seen between AI and sphincter defects detected on ultrasonography. There was an association between the angle of the PRM and the extent of ultrasound defects. Copyright © 2009 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bedside estimation of Down syndrome risk from second‐trimester ultrasound prenasal thickness
Authors: Maymon R. , Moskovitch M. , Levinsohn‐Tavor O. , Weinraub Z. , Herman A. , Cuckle H.
Published: December 2009

Objectives

To construct tables for ‘bedside’ estimation of Down syndrome risk based on maternal age and ultrasound prenasal thickness (PT) measurements.

Methods

Likelihood ratios were calculated using a log Gaussian model of the PT distribution in multiples of the gestational age‐specific median (MoM). The model parameters were derived from 80 Down syndrome and 850 unaffected pregnancies scanned at 14–27 weeks; these data had been published previously, in three series, except for 18 Down syndrome and 119 affected pregnancies. The means were estimated as the median, and the SDs as the 10th–90th range divided by 2.563.

Results

A log Gaussian model fitted well the distribution of PT values in Down syndrome and unaffected pregnancies with medians of 1.31 MoM and 1.01 MoM, and log10 SDs of 0.075 and 0.082, respectively.

Conclusions

The tables provide a simple ‘bedside’ estimation of Down syndrome risk without the need for computerized software or complicated calculations. More prospective data on PT in combination with other first‐ and second‐trimester screening markers are needed. Copyright © 2009 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Wind model for low frequency power fluctuations in offshore wind farms
Authors: Vigueras‐Rodríguez A. , Sørensen P. , Cutululis N. A. , Viedma A. , Donovan M. H.
Published: December 2009

This paper investigates the correlation between the frequency components of the wind speed Power Spectral Density. The results extend an already existing power fluctuation model that can simulate power fluctuations of wind power on areas up to several kilometers and for time scales up to a couple of hours, taking into account the spectral correlation between different wind turbines. The modelling is supported by measurements from two large wind farms, namely Nysted and Horns Rev. Measurements from individual wind turbines and meteorological masts are used. Finally, the models are integrated into an aggregated model which is used for estimating some electrical parameters as power ramps and reserves requirements, showing a quite good agreement between simulations and measurement. The comparison with measurements generally show that the inclusion of the correlation between low frequency components is an improvement, but the effect is relatively small. The effect of including the low frequency components in the model is much more significant. Therefore, that aggregated model is useful in the power system planning and operation, e.g. regarding load following and regulation. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Brownian bridge
Authors: Chow Winston C.
Published: December 2009

A Brownian bridge is a stochastic process derived from standard Brownian motion by requiring an extra constraint. This gives Brownian bridges unique mathematical properties, fascinating, itself, and useful in statistical and mathematical modeling. Here, we define a Brownian bridge and explain some of its unique mathematical properties. These properties make it useful as a mathematical model for real‐world phenomena and as a tool for statistical analysis. We then give some examples of applications. We will see many mathematical ideas that touch Brownian bridges, such as differential equations, linear spaces, topology, metric spaces of functions, measure theory, stochastic integrals, estimation, and hypothesis testing. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

This article is categorized under:

Statistical Models > Time Series Models

Data: Types and Structure > Time Series, Stochastic Processes, and Functional Data
Bayesian networks
Authors: Jensen Finn V.
Published: December 2009

Bayesian networks are defined, and the chain rule for Bayesian networks is stated. Outlines of algorithms provided: inference in Bayesian networks, sensitivity analysis, EM for parameter learning, and learning structure. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

This article is categorized under:

Statistical and Graphical Methods of Data Analysis > Bayesian Methods and Theory
Intraoperative Assessment of Sentinel Node Using Imprint Cytology
Authors: Clarke Dayalan , Leung Edmund , Chachlani Naresh , Rowlands David , Simon Jayanthi , Hero Isabel , England David
Published: December 2009

Background

Sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy has replaced axillary sampling as the axillary staging procedure of choice in patients with breast cancer. Accurate intraoperative evaluation of the SLN would allow axillary lymph node clearance to be performed during the initial operation when the SLN is positive for metastatic disease. The aim of the present study was to assess the accuracy of intraoperative imprint cytology (IC) of the SLN in two different institutions in the United Kingdom.

Methods

All breast cancer patients who underwent a SLN biopsy using a standard protocol in two hospital breast units were included. The SLN was sent fresh to the pathology laboratory, where it was immediately processed and examined by a cytopathologist using IC. The intraoperative IC results were compared with the final histopathological results. No therapeutic decisions were made based on the results of IC in this study.

Results

A total of 166 patients were included, with 47 positive and 119 negative cases on final histology. Of the 47 patients who were positive on final histology, there were 29 positive and 18 negative cases on IC (sensitivity = 61.7%). All 119 patients who were negative on final histology were negative on IC (specificity, 100%). The negative and positive predictive value of the final histology was 86.9% and 100%, respectively. The accuracy of IC was 89.2%.

Conclusions

The results from these two breast units are comparable with findings reported in the published literature, confirming that IC can be used to assess SLN biopsy intraoperatively. No unnecessary axillary node clearance would have been carried out based on the results of IC.
Increased Serum Levels of C‐Reactive Protein Precede Anastomotic Leakage in Colorectal Surgery
Authors: Woeste Guido , Müller Christine , Bechstein Wolf O. , Wullstein Christoph
Published: December 2009

Background

Anastomotic leakage (AL) is a severe complication following colorectal surgery. C‐reactive protein (CRP) is considered to be an indicator of postoperative complications.

Materials and methods

Between August 2002 and August 2005 342 colorectal resections with primary anastomosis were performed at the Department of General and Vascular Surgery. Johann Wolfgang Goethe‐University Frankfurt. For this retrospective study serum CRP was measured daily until postoperative day 7, and in cases of AL it was excluded from statistical analysis beginning with the day on which the AL was diagnosed.

Results

Twenty‐six of 342 (7.6%) patients developed AL at a mean of 8.7 days postoperatively. The in‐hospital mortality was 3.5% for all patients and was significantly higher in the AL group (11.5 versus 2.8%). The CRP level in the two groups showed a peak on day 2.5 and day 2.2, respectively. In case of postoperative AL the CRP level did not show a marked decline during the next few days. Compared to the cases where AL did not develop, there was a significantly higher increase in CRP from the preoperative level to the levels measured on postoperative day 3, 5, 6 and 7. Higher CRP levels were observed in patients experiencing pneumonia or urinary tract infection, but the decrease of CRP values was not as slow as in cases of AL.

Conclusions

This study shows serum CRP level to be a relevant marker in detecting postoperative complications in colorectal surgery. Prolonged elevation and a missing decline in CRP level precede the occurrence of AL.
B‐Lynch suture, intrauterine balloon, and endouterine hemostatic suture for the management of postpartum hemorrhage due to placenta previa accreta
Authors: Arduini Maurizio , Epicoco Giorgio , Clerici Graziano , Bottaccioli Elvira , Arena Saverio , Affronti Giuseppe
Published: December 2009

Objective

To report our experience with a new conservative management approach to treat postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) due to placenta previa accreta.

Methods

A retrospective study of 9 patients with placenta previa accreta who underwent a conservative management protocol. The protocol consists of preventive radiological catheterization of the descending aorta, cesarean delivery, use of Affronti endouterine square hemostatic sutures, and placement of an intrauterine Bakri balloon in conjunction with B‐Lynch suture. In the event of failure of the protocol, subsequent management employs ligation and/or reversible embolization of the uterine arteries followed by hysterectomy if unsuccessful.

Results

Conservative management of PPH was successful in all 9 patients evaluated and avoided the need for ligation and/or reversible embolization of the uterine arteries.

Conclusion

Management of PPH is dictated by several considerations including hemodynamic status and desire to preserve fertility. The initial results of this conservative protocol for treatment of PPH in high‐risk patients with placenta previa accreta are encouraging.
Risk of heart failure relapse in subsequent pregnancy among peripartum cardiomyopathy mothers
Authors: Fett James D. , Fristoe Karie L. , Welsh Serena N.
Published: December 2009

Objective

To quantify the level of risk for heart failure relapse in a subsequent pregnancy in women who have had peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM), and to test the hypothesis that meeting additional criteria may help lower the risk.

Methods

Prospectively‐identified PPCM patients volunteering between 2003 and 2009 were identified from the PPCM Registry of Hôpital Albert Schweitzer, Deschapelles, Haiti, and an internet support group. Data were assessed for full adherence to monitoring and diagnostic criteria, clinical data, statistical analysis, and reporting.

Results

Of 61 post‐PPCM pregnancies identified, there were 18 relapses (29.5%) of heart failure. Of 26 pregnancies with a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of less than 0.55 prior to the pregnancy, relapse occurred in 12 (46.2%) pregnancies. Of 35 pregnancies with an LVEF of 0.55 or greater prior to the pregnancy, relapse occurred in 6 (17.1%) (P < 0.01). No relapses occurred in 9 women who also demonstrated adequate contractile reserve.

Conclusion

The most important criterion associated with reduced risk for heart failure relapse in a post‐PPCM pregnancy is recovery defined by an LVEF 0.55 or greater before the subsequent pregnancy. Exercise stress echocardiography showing adequate contractile reserve may help to identify women at an even lower risk of relapse.
Heaving The Lead
Authors: Cooper R W
Published: December 2009

Inspired by Professor Kemp's historical article on the use of soundings in navigation, this contribution provides useful information on the use of leadlines in commercial fishing and the Royal Navy in the mid-20th Century.
Spacecraft Large Attitude Estimation Using a Navigation Sensor
Authors: Vepa Ranjan
Published: December 2009

In this paper we assume that we have measurements of a first difference of a typical satellite navigation carrier phase differential, which is a homogeneous quadratic function of the components of the attitude quaternion. We illustrate the determination of large or sustained attitudes using a dedicated unscented Kalman filter. The unscented Kalman filter structure was chosen for the dedicated filter because of its derivative free nature and other advantages. When a Gaussian distributed vector random variable is transformed to an equivalent quaternion it does not continue to be Gaussian distributed. For this reason, a new predictor-corrector form of the unscented Kalman filter is proposed to maintain the normalization of the unscented mean quaternion estimate in the presence of additive disturbances. The results from our realistic simulations indicate that the large attitude of a spacecraft can be estimated to within 0·1% accuracy over large time frames. The filter is particularly useful for autonomous operations of spacecraft as well as in other applications where the process model is bilinear or second order in the states.
Field Comparison of Driving Performance Using a Portable Navigation System
Authors: Lee Wen-Chen , Ma Mi-Chia , Cheng Bor-Wen
Published: December 2009

Recent work has revealed that increasing numbers of drivers now receive driving instructions using a portable navigation system. A 2×2×2 (position×display decrease mode×voice) factorial experiment was executed to compare driving performance when using a portable navigation system (PNS). Thirty-two subjects were paid to participate in this field study, and a smart phone was adopted as the portable navigation device. The results indicated that drivers using the PNS under the conditions up position and with voice instruction performed better in terms of trip duration, mean speed, and the standard deviation of speed.
Navigational Traffic Conflict Technique: A Proactive Approach to Quantitative Measurement of Collision Risks in Port Waters
Authors: Debnath Ashim Kumar , Chin Hoong Chor
Published: December 2009

Navigational safety analysis relying on collision statistics is often hampered because of the low number of observations. A promising alternative approach that overcomes this problem is proposed in this paper. By analyzing critical vessel interactions this approach proactively measures collision risk in port waters. The proposed method is illustrated for quantitative measurement of collision risks in Singapore port fairways, and validated by examining correlations between the measured risks with those perceived by pilots. This method is an ethically appealing alternative to the collision-based analysis for fast, reliable and effective safety assessment, thus possessing great potential for managing collision risks in port waters.
Data on the Move – Privacy of Road Pricing
Authors: Custers Bart , Kuiper Albert
Published: December 2009

Privacy is an increasingly important aspect surrounding the introduction of road pricing in the Netherlands. Different systems for monitoring vehicles result in different consequences for privacy. This contribution describes the privacy aspects in the different scenarios used by the Dutch government. It is often suggested that privacy is a hindrance for road pricing, but if smart choices are made, this does not necessarily have to be the case. In this contribution, we suggest several concrete technological, legal and organizational (partial) solutions, that could be useful in implementing privacy-friendly road pricing.
Human Element and Accidents in Greek Shipping
Authors: Tzannatos Ernestos
Published: December 2009

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the significance of the human element in accidents involving Greek-flagged ships, during 1993–2006, worldwide. In this context, the human element as a general factor of accident initiation and most importantly its constituent components, in the form of specific onboard duties (functions) and/or off-board (mainly ashore) entities, were presented and analysed. It was found that 57·1% of all accidents were attributed to the human element, whereas 75·8% of the latter were detected onboard and 80·4% of the onboard human-induced accidents were linked to errors and violations of the ship's master. Furthermore, since the timeframe examined covers the implementation of the ISM Code, the current analysis was aimed at producing valuable information with regard to its effectiveness upon Greek shipping. In this respect, a 12·2% reduction of human-caused accidents has been found during the post-ISM period. Finally, the association between specific accident types and human element components was examined utilising the technique of correspondence analysis and it was found that groundings and collisions were closely related to the ship's Master, whereas mechanical failures and fires were associated with the engine officers, and cargo shifts and flooding with bridge officers.
Socioeconomic context of land use and land cover change in Mexican biosphere reserves
Authors: FIGUEROA FERNANDA , SÁNCHEZ-CORDERO VÍCTOR , MEAVE JORGE A. , TREJO IRMA
Published: December 2009

Land use/land cover change (LULC) is a major threat to natural protected areas worldwide. This paper explores the relationships between four estimated LULC parameters for 17 Mexican biosphere reserves (BRs) for 1993–2002 on a GIS platform, and ten socioeconomic factors obtained from census data. These relationships were tested through linear correlations and multivariate analysis. BRs showed lower human demographic pressure, but higher population dispersion, social marginality, percentage of rain-fed agriculture area, and dependence upon agriculture and cattle compared to nationwide values. BRs also varied in their indigenous population, and showed cattle overpopulation, and low immigration and road density. Socioeconomic factors explained 87% of LULC variation. High population and road density, cattle overpopulation and low percentage indigenous population were related to percentage of transformed area (2002). Conversely, small population and road density, large proportion of indigenous population and high dependency on agriculture and cattle, were related to the rate of change in transformed area (1993–2002). High human population growth and urban concentration occurred when BRs suffered higher LULC than their corresponding ecoregions. Including socioeconomic conditions prevailing in BRs and their influence on LULC in reserve management and rural development planning will improve strategies for the confluence of conservation and development goals.
Antarctic climate change and the environment
Authors: Convey P. , Bindschadler R. , di Prisco G. , Fahrbach E. , Gutt J. , Hodgson D.A. , Mayewski P.A. , Summerhayes C.P. , Turner J. ,   the ACCE Consortium
Published: December 2009

The Antarctic climate system varies on timescales from orbital, through millennial to sub-annual, and is closely coupled to other parts of the global climate system. We review these variations from the perspective of the geological and glaciological records and the recent historical period from which we have instrumental data (∼the last 50 years). We consider their consequences for the biosphere, and show how the latest numerical models project changes into the future, taking into account human actions in the form of the release of greenhouse gases and chlorofluorocarbons into the atmosphere. In doing so, we provide an essential Southern Hemisphere companion to the Arctic Climate Impact Assessment.
Medikamenten-assoziiertes Long-QT-Syndrom
Authors: Bruggisser  , Bravo Rätz , Bodmer
Published: December 2009

Wir berichten über den Fall einer 76-jährigen Frau, die beim nächtlichen Toilettengang kollabierte. Auf der Notfallstation wird eine verlängerte QT-Zeit bei Sinusbradykardie und leichter Hypokaliämie diagnostiziert. Die QT-Zeit normalisiert sich nach Absetzen des Antidepressivums Citalopram. Aufgrund des klinischen Bildes und eines pathologischen Schellong-Testes wird die Synkope am ehesten als orthostatisch bedingt beurteilt. Differentialdiagnostisch steht eine Torsade-de-pointes (TdP)-Kammertachykardie bei medikamentös bedingter Verlängerung der QT-Zeit zur Diskussion. Wir beschreiben, weshalb am ehesten Citalopram als Auslöser der verlängerten QT-Zeit in Frage kommt. Weiter diskutieren wir die Pathophysiologie des medikamentös induzierten QT-Syndroms, die am häufigsten involvierten Medikamente, die Prophylaxe und die Behandlung einer TdP-Kammertachykardie.
Evaluation de l'adhésion aux recommandations de l'EULAR et de l'OARSI pour le traitement de l'arthrose du genou et de la hanche en pratique quotidienne
Authors: Linthoudt Van
Published: December 2009

Betreffend Behandlung der Knie- und Hüftarthrose wurden kürzlich Empfehlungen von den Internationalen Wissenschaftlichen Vereinigungen EULAR und OARSI herausgegeben. Die vorliegende Studie untersuchte, inwiefern die praktizierenden Ärzte zweier Gemeinden des Neuenburger Hochlandes diese Richtlinien kannten und ob sie mit den Empfehlungen zustimmen. Im März 2008 wurde allen Allgemeinärzten (AZ = 23), Internisten (IN = 22), Orthopäden (ORTHO = 8) und Rheumatologen (RHEUMATO = 3) der Gemeinden Le Locle und La Chaux-de-Fonds (ca. 55000 Einwohner) ein Fragebogen gesandt. Der anonyme Fragebogen umfasste Fragen nach demographischen Gesichtspunkten der betreffenden Ärzte und zu deren Kenntnis und Akzeptanz der 10 EULAR- und 25 OARSI-Empfehlungen zur Behandlung der Knie- und Hüftarthrose. Die Resultate wurden, basierend auf einer semi-quantitativen Evaluation (1/5–5/5), in Form einer «Stärke der Akzeptanz» (SdA) geäussert und in Prozenten ausgedrückt, um so einen direkten Vergleich mit der von EULAR und OARSI festgesetzten «Stärke der Empfehlungen» (SdE) zu ermöglichen. 23 Fragebogen wurden zurückgesandt. Sieben von zehn AZ, einer von vier ORTHO und die drei RHEUMATO kannten einige der EULAR-Empfehlungen und wandten diese auch an. Nur ein AZ, ein ORTHO und ein RHEUMATO kannten und wandten die OARSI-Empfehlungen an. Im Vergleich zu den Spezialisten für muskulo-skelettalen Erkrankungen (SME = ORTHO + RHEUMATO), war die SdA bei den Ärzten der Grundversorgung (ADG = AZ + IN) leicht vermindert, sowohl was die EULAR-Empfehlungen (85% versus 89%) als auch die OARSI-Empfehlungen (73% versus 78%) betrifft. Keine der Empfehlungen weder der EULAR noch der OARSI haben eine volle SdA bei den ADG erreicht. Zwei Empfehlungen der EULAR und eine der OARSI haben jedoch bei den SME eine volle SdA erzielt. In dieser Stichprobe ignorierte die Mehrzahl der IN und ORTHO die Empfehlungen der EULAR und der OARSI bezüglich der Behandlung der Knie- und Hüftarthrose. Nichtsdestotrotz hat die Mehrheit der ADG und der SME an ihnen festgehalten, teilweise mit einer höheren SdA als die empfohlene SdE. Angesichts dieser Ergebnisse, wären grössere Bemühungen zur Verbreitung dieser Empfehlungen, vor allem bei ORTHO und IN gerechtfertigt.
Die häufigsten Frakturen in der Hausarztpraxis: Operationsindikationen und moderne Operationstechniken
Authors: Acklin  , Sommer
Published: December 2009

Die distale Radius-, die Klavikula-, die Malleolar- und die proximale Humerusfraktur gehören zu den häufigsten Frakturen im medizinischen Alltag. Häufig erfolgen die initiale Diagnose, die konservative Therapie respektive die postoperative Betreuung in der Hausarztpraxis. In den letzten Jahren hat sich in einigen Bereichen ein Wandel der Behandlungsmodalitäten vollzogen. Mit der Entwicklung von winkelstabilen Implantaten und minimal invasiven Operationstechniken zeigte sich auch bei Osteoporosefrakturen bei gegebener Indikation eine Bevorzugung der operativen Behandlung. Auf die erwähnten vier Frakturen wird näher eingegangen.
Diagnose und Behandlung von Eisenmangel ohne Anämie
Authors: Fehr  , Krayenbühl  , Favrat  , Schleiffenbaum  , Kapanci  , Orelli von
Published: December 2009

Eisenmangel ohne Anämie bleibt oft undiagnostiziert, da die Symptome einem Eisenmangel mit Anämie zugeschrieben werden. Serumferritin ist der beste diagnostische Parameter, wobei <10 μg/l eine erschöpfte Eisenreserve widerspiegeln, 10–30 μg/l einen Eisenmangel ohne Anämie bestätigen können und bei 30–50 μg/l ein funktioneller Eisenmangel möglich ist. Sind CRP oder ALT erhöht, ist normales/erhöhtes Ferritin mit Vorsicht zu interpretieren. Parenterale Eisenbehandlung ist indiziert, falls die primäre orale Eisentherapie nicht erfolgreich ist oder nicht toleriert wird. Bei Ferritin <10 μg/l ist eine kumulative Gesamtdosis von 1000 mg Eisen vorzusehen, bei 10–30 μg/l ist eine kumulative Gesamtdosis von 500 mg empfohlen, und bei 30–50 μg/l kann eine erste Dosis von 200 mg verabreicht werden. Ferritin soll frühestens zwei Wochen nach der letzten oralen bzw. 8–12 Wochen nach der letzten parenteralen Verabreichung nachkontrolliert werden.
Müdigkeit und Anämie
Authors: Ivanova  , Zeller
Published: December 2009

Wir berichten über einen 80-jährigen Patienten mit Schwäche, Müdigkeit und Gewichtsverlust. Aufgrund des pathologisch ausgefallenen Synacthen-Tests wurde eine Nebenniereninsuffizienz postuliert, die sich bei einem isolierten ACTH-Mangel als sekundär einordnen liess. In der Abklärung fand sich zudem eine hyporegenerative, normochrome und normozytäre Anämie, deren Korrelat im Knochenmarksbefund einer «anemia of chronic disease» entsprach. Therapeutisch wurde der Patient mit Hydrocortison substituiert, worunter sich die Anämie und die Beschwerden zurückbildeten.
Excess total organic carbon in the intermediate water of the South China Sea and its export to the North Pacific
Authors: Dai Minhan , Meng Feifei , Tang Tiantian , Kao Shu‐Ji , Lin Jianrong , Chen Junhui , Huang Jr‐Chuan , Tian Jiwei , Gan Jianping , Yang Shuang
Published: December 2009

Depth profiles of total organic carbon (TOC) were measured in spring (2005) and winter (2006) in the South China Sea (SCS), the largest marginal sea adjacent to the North Western Pacific (NWP). Compared to TOC profiles in the NWP, excess TOC (3.2 ± 1.1 μmol kg−1) was revealed in the intermediate layer of the SCS at σθ ∼ 27.2–27.6 (∼1000–1500 m). Below the depth of 2000 m, TOC concentrations were identical between the SCS and the NWP. Based on a one‐dimensional steady state diffusion advection model constrained by potential temperature, we estimated a net TOC production rate of 0.12 ± 0.04 μmol kg−1 yr−1 to maintain this excess. A positive relationship between TOC and apparent oxygen utilization in the SCS deep water lent support to such a model‐derived TOC production. This excess TOC in the out‐flowing intermediate water may carry 3.1 ± 2.1 Tg C yr−1 of organic carbon out from the SCS and potentially into the deep open ocean. In light of the short residence time of the SCS deep water, the exported TOC was likely from the recently fixed organic carbon within the SCS. The export of such organic carbon, thereby less likely to return to the atmosphere may therefore contribute significantly to the carbon sequestration in the SCS.
SABER observations of mesospheric ozone during NH late winter 2002–2009
Authors: Smith A. K. , López‐Puertas M. , García‐Comas M. , Tukiainen S.
Published: December 2009

Observations from the SABER (Sounding of the Atmosphere using Broadband Emission Radiometry) instrument on the TIMED (Thermosphere, Ionosphere, Mesosphere, Energetics and Dynamics) satellite show interannual variations of mesospheric ozone in the NH late winter. Ozone in the mid‐January to mid‐March period is significantly different in 2004, 2006, and 2009 than in other years (2002, 2003, 2005, 2007, 2008). The altitudes of the ozone secondary maximum (∼90–95 km), the minimum (∼80 km) and the tertiary maximum (∼72 km) are all lower by 3–5 km during the three anomalous winters. The ozone anomalies indicate enhanced downward motion and are consistent with other observations of unusual profiles of trace species. The ozone perturbations extend to at least 100 km while temperatures above 90 km are within the range found in the other years.
Cosmic ray decreases and changes in the liquid water cloud fraction over the oceans
Authors: Laken Benjamin , Wolfendale Arnold , Kniveton Dominic
Published: December 2009

Svensmark et al. (2009) have recently claimed that strong galactic cosmic ray (GCR) decreases during ‘Forbush Decrease (FD) events’ are followed by decreases in both the global liquid water cloud fraction (LCF) and other closely correlated atmospheric parameters. To test the validity of these findings we have concentrated on just one property, the MODIS LCF and examined two aspects: 1) The statistical chance that the decrease observed in the LCF is abnormal. 2) The likelihood of the observed delay (∼5 to 9 days) being physically connected to the FD events. On both counts we conclude that LCF variations are unrelated to FD events: Both the pattern and timing of observed LCF changes are irreconcilable with current theoretical pathways. Additionally, a zonal analysis of LCF variations also offers no support to the claimed relationship, as the observed anomaly is not found to vary latitudinally in conjunction with cosmic ray intensity.
Are periodic solar wind number density structures formed in the solar corona?
Authors: Viall Nicholeen M. , Spence Harlan E. , Kasper Justin
Published: December 2009

We present an analysis of the alpha to proton solar wind abundance ratio (AHe) during a period characterized by significant large size scale density fluctuations, focusing on an event in which the proton and alpha enhancements are anti‐correlated. In a recent study using 11 years (1995–2005) of solar wind observations from the Wind spacecraft, N. M. Viall et al. [2008] showed that periodic proton density structures occurred at particular radial length‐scales more often than others. The source of these periodic density structures is a significant and outstanding question. Are they generated in the interplanetary medium, or are they a relic of coronal activity as the solar wind was formed? We use AHe to answer this question, as solar wind elemental abundance ratios are not expected to change during transit. For this event, the anti‐phase nature of the AHe variations strongly suggests that periodic solar wind density structures originate in the solar corona.
Observations of internal wave generation in the seasonally ice‐free Arctic
Authors: Rainville Luc , Woodgate Rebecca A.
Published: December 2009

The Arctic is generally considered a low energy ocean. Using mooring data from the northern Chukchi Sea, we confirm that this is mainly because of sea‐ice impeding input of wind energy into the ocean. When sea‐ice is present, even strong storms do not induce significant oceanic response. However, during ice‐free seasons, local storms drive strong inertial currents (>20 cm/s) that propagate throughout the water column and significantly deepen the surface mixed layer. The large vertical shear associated with summer inertial motions suggests a dominant role for localized and seasonal vertical mixing in Arctic Ocean dynamics. Our results imply that recent extensive summer sea‐ice retreat will lead to significantly increased internal wave generation especially over the shelves and also possibly over deep waters. This internal wave activity will likely dramatically increase upper‐layer mixing in large areas of the previously quiescent Arctic, with important ramifications for ecosystems and ocean dynamics.
Nightside ionospheric electrodynamics associated with substorms: PFISR and THEMIS ASI observations
Authors: Zou S. , Lyons L. R. , Nicolls M. J. , Heinselman C. J. , Mende S. B.
Published: December 2009

Observations from the newly available Poker Flat Incoherent Scatter Radar have been used to study the ionospheric electrodynamics during the substorm expansion phase. Substorm events selected have been divided into three categories based on onset location relative to the radar, and repeatable features have been identified. West of onset, westward flows increased in response to the passage of the westward traveling surge (WTS) poleward of them. The enhanced flows occurred within the Sub‐Auroral Polarization Streams region of downward Region 2 currents, which extend equatorward from near the equatorward boundary of electron precipitation. Strong E region ionization increase associated with the WTS occurred poleward of the enhanced westward flows, suggesting that poleward Pedersen currents fed by the downward Region 2 field‐aligned current (FAC) further equatorward contribute at least partially to closure of the upward FAC of the WTS. An enhanced eastward flow channel developed east of onset. E region ionization decreased poleward of this flow peak, implying formation of downward FAC, and further increased equatorward of the flow peak, suggesting strengthening of preexisting Region 2 upward FAC. These observations indicate that the downward FAC formed at onset at least partially closes via the upward Region 2 currents. The enhanced eastward flows decreased after passage of the auroral bulge, and the reduced E region ionization increased again. When onset occurred within the radar fov, the thin breakup arc of onset occurred at the center of the Harang reversal, while if the optical onset was poleward of the radar fov, the Harang reversal was observed after the onset. A 2‐D picture of the evolution of ionospheric electrodynamics was generated by synthesizing observations from the three categories, which provides a schematic description of the relationship between Region 2 and substorm expansion electrodynamics.
NOx production in laboratory discharges simulating blue jets and red sprites
Authors: Peterson Harold , Bailey Matthew , Hallett John , Beasley William
Published: December 2009

Sources of middle atmosphere nitrogen oxides, including transport from the troposphere and production in situ by energetic electrons, are currently not well characterized. Production of nitrogen oxides (NOx) in the middle atmosphere by transient luminous events (TLEs), such as red sprites and blue jets has previously been estimated from satellite observations and modeling studies. This is the first laboratory attempt to estimate NOx production by TLEs, following studies that have confirmed electrical similarities between laboratory discharges and TLEs. A pressure‐controlled chamber and high‐voltage power supplies simulated middle atmosphere discharges. Chemiluminescence NOx analyzers sampled NOx following the completion of the chamber discharges, which was used to calculate total NOx production for each discharge as well as NOx per ampere of current and NOx per Joule of discharge energy. Three different production efficiencies in NOx/J as a function of pressure pointed to three different production regimes: one for tropospheric pressures (100–500 mb), one for stratospheric pressures (1–100 mb), and one for upper stratospheric to mesospheric pressures (no greater than 1 mb). Discharges at jet‐like pressures are measured to produce 1.7 × 1016 to 6.40 × 1017 molecules of NOx per discharge, while discharges at sprite‐like pressure produce 6.97 × 1013 to 8.57 × 1013 molecules of NOx per discharge. Blue jets were calculated to produce 1.7 × 1022 to 7.4 × 1026 molecules of NOx, while red sprites were calculated to produce 6.8 × 1023 to 6.3 × 1027 molecules of NOx. On the basis of global sprite frequency estimates global annual NOx production by sprites is estimated to be between 7 × 1023 and 2 × 1028 molecules per second.
Relationship between substorm onset locations and nightside convection pattern features
Authors: Bristow W. A.
Published: December 2009

This paper presents a study using the Super Dual Auroral Radar Network (SuperDARN) convection database in conjunction with a list of substorm onsets determined from the IMAGE satellite to examine the relationship between substorm onset locations and features of the convection pattern. Particular attention is devoted to the latitude of onset locations compared to the latitude of the near‐midnight convection reversal boundary (CRB) and the latitude at which the highest flow velocity (the flow peak) was observed equatorward of the CRB. Because of this focus, the set of observations examined is limited to cases where SuperDARN provided sufficient observations in the midnight sector to determine the latitude of the CRB. Distributions of the latitude difference between the onset location and the CRB and flow peak were examined for different times leading up to substorm onset and for a few different conditions. It was found that the onsets occurred equatorward of the CRB in more than 95% of the cases and that the distribution was approximately centered on the flow velocity peak.