bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human Gastrointestinal Neoplasia-Associated Myofibroblasts Can Develop from Bone Marrow-Derived Cells Following Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Worthley Daniel L. , Ruszkiewicz Andrew , Davies Ruth , Moore Sarah , Nivison-Smith Ian , Bik To L. , Browett Peter , Western Robyn , Durrant Simon , So Jason , Young Graeme P. , Mullighan Charles G. , Bardy Peter G. , Michael Michael Z.
Published: March 2009

This study characterized the contribution of bone marrow-derived cells to human neoplasia and the perineoplastic stroma. The Australasian Bone Marrow Transplant Recipient Registry was used to identify solid organ neoplasia that developed in female recipients of male allogeneic stem cell transplants. Eighteen suitable cases were identified including several skin cancers, two gastric cancers, and one rectal adenoma. Light microscopy, fluorescence and chromogenic in situ hybridization, and immunohistochemistry were performed to determine the nature and origin of the neoplastic and stromal cells. In contrast to recent reports, donor-derived neoplastic cells were not detected. Bone marrow-derived neoplasia-associated myofibroblasts, however, were identified in the rectal adenoma and in a gastric cancer. Bone marrow-derived cells can generate myofibroblasts in the setting of human gastrointestinal neoplasia.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Synthesis, Structure, and Properties of Ag5Se(PO4) and Ag5Te(PO4) with Two‐Dimensional Framework Trapping PO43– anions
Authors: Shestimerova Tatiana A. , Oleneva Olga S. , Mitiaev Alexander S. , Bykov Mikhail A. , Davliatshin Dmitry I. , Shevelkov Andrei V.
Published: March 2009

New compounds Ag5Se(PO4) and Ag5Te(PO4) have been synthesized as black air‐stable polycrystalline powders, and their structures determined from X‐ray powder diffraction data. The two new compounds are isostructural and crystallize in the space group P4/nmm (No. 129) with the unit cell parameters a = 6.8886(5), c = 7.2724(7) Å, Z = 2 and a = 7.0098(5), c = 7.3423(7) Å, Z = 2, respectively. Their crystal structures comprise a positively charged silver–chalcogen framework and separate tetrahedral PO43– ions. The framework features irregular coordination of chalcogen atoms with a coordination number of eight and manifold Ag–Ag bonds ranging from 2.89 to 3.23 Å. The interactions within the framework and between the framework and the PO43– anions were analyzed with the help of structural data and vibrational spectra. Ag5Te(PO4) has a room‐temperature conductivity of 4.5 × 10–5 S·m–1 and an activation energy of 0.57 eV in the range 400–500 K.
Dynamic Disorder of Bi82+ Clusters in the Plastic Phase (Bi8)3Bi[InI4]9
Authors: Wosylus Aron , Dubenskyy Vitaly , Schwarz Ulrich , Ruck Michael
Published: March 2009

Black, air‐insensitive crystals of the bismuth‐rich tetraiodido‐indate(III) (Bi8)3Bi[InI4]9 have been prepared from melts of the contributing elements. X‐ray diffraction on a single crystal at 293 K and 220 K revealed a cubic structure with [InI4]– tetrahedra, isolated Bi3+ ions and rotationally disordered Bi82+ square antiprisms ace group Fmc; a = 20.162(2) Å at T = 293(1)]. The principal arrangement of the complex ions corresponds to the AuCu3 type. The small bulk modulus B0 = 12(1) GPa and its large pressure derivative B0′ = 11(1) as well as the low Debye temperature θD = 52 K are in accordance with a plastic behavior. Cooling below 148(1) K induces the first order transition into an orderedphase with 0.43 % higher density but much larger unit cell and lower crystallographic point group. The transition enthalpy ΔH ≈ 3.8 kJ·mol–1 and transition entropy ΔS ≈ 3 R were determined from specific heat data. A similar reversible phase transition into a lower symmetric structure is observed at a pressure of approximately 5 GPa. (Bi8)3Bi[InI4]9 is a diamagnetic semiconductor.
Flexor Tendon Problems after Volar Plate Fixation of Distal Radius Fractures
Authors: Adham Mehdi N. , Porembski Margaret , Adham Christine
Published: March 2009

Four cases of flexor tendon problems which developed after volar plate fixation of distal radius fractures are presented. All cases were associated with close contact of the screws or distal edge of the plate with the flexor tendons. Poor bone stock or multiple bone fragments allowing loosening of the plate or non-locking screws cause the hardware to irritate the flexor tendons and ultimately lead to rupture. The flexor tendons involved include the flexor carpi radialis, flexor pollicis longus and flexor digitorum superficialis, and flexor digitorum profundus to the index and long fingers.
Physical activity assessment and health outcomes in old age: how valid are dose–response relationships in epidemiologic studies?
Authors: Meyer Katharina , Stolz Christian , Rott Christoph , Laederach-Hofmann Kurt
Published: March 2009

In this systematic review the validity of the dose–response relationships between physical activity (PA) and energy expenditure (EE) on defined health outcomes (cardio- and cerebrovascular morbidity and mortality, cancer) for the elderly is questioned. Medline, Cochrane, and EMBASE databases were reviewed for epidemiological longitudinal studies in populations aged 60+ for the years 1985–2007. Although most of the 18 identified studies generally demonstrated an inverse dose–response relationship between PA and EE level with morbidity and mortality, the range of dose–responses was remarkably broad. The nature of the dose–response relationship remained unclear. PA questionnaires - even those constructed for the elderly - do not cover the extremely diverse aspects of age-specific PA behavior and modes of muscular activity. Only non-age-specific tables had been used to estimate the EE in the elderly. Direct measurements of EE were limited. The results have implications for the interpretation of the dose–response relationships between PA and EE on defined health outcomes in old age.
Activity‐Based Costing and Its Application in a Turkish University Hospital
Authors: Yereli Ayşe Necef
Published: March 2009

Resource management in hospitals is of increasing importance in today's global economy. Traditional accounting systems have become inadequate for managing hospital resources and accurately determining service costs.

Conversely, the activity‐based costing approach to hospital accounting is an effective cost management model that determines costs and evaluates financial performance across departments. Obtaining costs that are more accurate can enable hospitals to analyze and interpret costing decisions and make more accurate budgeting decisions.

Traditional and activity‐based costing approaches were compared using a cost analysis of gall bladder surgeries in the general surgery department of one university hospital in Manisa, Turkey. AORN J 89 (March 2009) 573–591. © AORN, Inc, 2009.
Lyn inhibits osteoclast differentiation by interfering with PLCγ1‐mediated Ca2+ signaling
Authors: Yoon Soo-Hyun , Lee Youngkyun , Kim Hyung-Joon , Lee Zang Hee , Hyung Seok-Won , Lee Sang-Won , Kim Hong-Hee
Published: March 2009

Osteoclasts differentiate from macrophage‐lineage cells to become specialized for bone resorption function. By a proteomics approach, we found that Lyn was down‐regulated by the osteoclast differentiation factor, receptor activator of NF‐κB ligand (RANKL). The forced reduction of Lyn caused a striking increase in the RANKL‐induced PLCγ1, Ca2+, and NFATc1 responses during differentiation. These data suggest that Lyn plays a negative role in osteoclastogenesis by interfering with the PLCγ1‐mediated Ca2+ signaling that leads to NFATc1 activation. Consistent with the in vitro results, in vivo injection of Lyn specific siRNA into mice calvariae provoked a fulminant bone resorption. Our study provides the first evidence of the involvement of Lyn in the negative regulation of osteoclastogenesis by RANKL.
SIRT1 regulates tyrosine hydroxylase expression and differentiation of neuroblastoma cells via FOXO3a
Authors: Kim Min-Ju , Ahn Kyungsook , Park Seong-Hoon , Kang Hong-Jun , Jang Bong Geom , Oh Soo-Jin , Oh Sun-Mee , Jeong Yu-Jin , Heo Jee-In , Suh Jun-Gyo , Lim Soon Sung , Ko Yoon-Jung , Huh Sung-Oh , Kim Sung Chan , Park Jae-Bong , Kim Jaebong , Kim Jong-Il , Jo Sangmee Ahn , Lee Jae-Yong
Published: March 2009

To examine the function of SIRT1 in neuronal differentiation, we employed all‐trans retinoic acid (ATRA)‐induced differentiation of neuroblastoma cells. Nicotinamide inhibited neurite outgrowth and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) expression. Inhibition of PARP or histone deacetylase did not inhibit TH expression, showing the effect to be SIRT1 specific. Expression of FOXO3a and its target proteins were increased during the differentiation and reduced by nicotinamide. FOXO3a deacetylation was increased by ATRA and blocked by nicotinamide. SIRT1 and FOXO3a siRNA inhibited ATRA‐induced up‐regulation of TH and differentiation. Taken together, these results indicate that SIRT1 is involved in ATRA‐induced differentiation of neuroblastoma cells via FOXO3a.
Alternative proofs of linear response for piecewise expanding unimodal maps
Authors: BALADI VIVIANE , SMANIA DANIEL
Published: March 2009

We give two new proofs that the Sinai–Ruelle–Bowen (SRB) measure t↦μt of a C2 path ft of unimodal piecewise expanding C3 maps is differentiable at 0 if ft is tangent to the topological class of f0. The arguments are more conceptual than the original proof of Baladi and Smania [Linear response formula for piecewise expanding unimodal maps. Nonlinearity21 (2008), 677–711], but require proving Hölder continuity of the infinitesimal conjugacy α (a new result, of independent interest) and using spaces of bounded p-variation. The first new proof gives differentiability of higher order of ∫ ψ dμt if ft is smooth enough and stays in the topological class of f0 and if ψ is smooth enough (a new result). In addition, this proof does not require any information on the decomposition of the SRB measure into regular and singular terms, making it potentially amenable to extensions to higher dimensions. The second new proof allows us to recover the linear response formula (i.e. the formula for the derivative at 0) obtained by Baladi and Smania, by an argument more conceptual than the ‘brute force’ cancellation mechanism used by Baladi and Smania.
Ag nanocluster synthesis by laser ablation in Ar atmosphere: A plume dynamics analysis
Authors: Fazio E. , Neri F. , Ossi P.M. , Santo N. , Trusso S.
Published: March 2009

Ag thin films were deposited by pulsed laser ablation in a controlled Ar atmosphere. The deposition process was performed at different Ar pressure values in the range between 10 and 100 Pa to investigate the influence of ambient gas pressure on the plasma expansion dynamics and on the film structural properties. Position, velocity and volume of the laser generated plasma as functions of time were obtained by time resolved fast photography. The morphological properties of the films were investigated by transmission electron microscopy which shows that film growth proceeds via aggregation on the substrates of nanoclusters formedin the expandingplume. The formation of nanoparticles takes place as a consequence of plasma confinement induced by the interaction with ambient gas species. Data from fast photography analysis were used as input parameters to calculate the size of the nanoparticles using a model that takes into account the collisional nature of the laser generated silver plasma.
Exploring the Performance of Natural Search Strategies for the Control of Unmanned Autonomous Vehicles
Authors: Banks Alec , Vincent Jonathan
Published: March 2009

This paper builds on prior research into the application of particle swarm optimisation to autonomous vehicle control in search roles. It examines the use of naturally inspired search strategies to enhance the performance of groups of sensor-based vehicles in applications where there is no knowledgea prioriregarding target presence, location, distribution or behaviour (movement). This paper first briefly reviews existing ethological research into search strategies in the natural world, identifying three types of random walk, two multi-phase strategies and two species-specific strategies for further investigation. Experiments are then performed within a simulation environment to compare the performance of naturally inspired strategies with deterministic patterns and random movement, when searching for both static and dynamic targets. Results indicate that performance improvements can be realised, provided that critical relationships within the application domain broadly match those existing in the underlying natural metaphor.
Active RFID Trilateration and Location Fingerprinting Based on RSSI for Pedestrian Navigation
Authors: Fu Qing , Retscher Guenther
Published: March 2009

In the work package ‘Integrated Positioning’ of the Ubiquitous Cartography for Pedestrian Navigation project (UCPNAVI) alternative location methods using active Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) are investigated for positioning of pedestrians in areas where no GNSS position determination is possible due to obstruction of the satellite signals. In most common RFID applications, positioning is performed using cell-based positioning. RFID tags can be installed at active landmarks (i.e., known locations) in the surroundings and a user equipped with an RFID reader can be positioned using Cell of Origin (CoO). The positioning accuracy, however, depends on the size of the cell defined by the maximum range of the signal. Using long range RFID for positioning the cell size can be quite large, i.e., around 20 m. Therefore, the paper proposes two new methods for positioning, i.e., trilateration and location fingerprinting based on received signal strength indication (RSSI) if more than one RFID tag is visible. The trilateration approach is based on the deduction of ranges to the RFID tags from RSSI. An iterative approach to model the signal propagation will be introduced, i.e., the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) indoor location model that can be simplified to a logarithmic model, and a simple polynomial model is employed for the signal strength to range conversion. In a second attempt, location fingerprinting based on RSSI is investigated. In this case, RSSI is measured in a training phase at known locations inside the building and stored in a database. In the positioning phase these measurements are used together with the current measurements to obtain the current location of the user. For the estimation of the current location different approaches are employed and tested, i.e., a direction-based approach, a tag-based approach, a direction-tag-based approach and a heading-based approach. Using trilateration or fingerprinting positioning accuracies on the one to a few metres level can usually be achieved. The concept and the iterative approach of the different methods and test results are discussed in this paper.
Validation of EGNOS Helicopter Approach Procedures to North Sea Oil Platforms
Authors: Valner J. , Leighton S. J.
Published: March 2009

A version of this paper was first presented at the Royal Institute of Navigation NAV 08 Conference held at Church House, Westminster, London in October 2008.

The North Sea oil platforms are reliant on regular and reliable helicopter operations for the movement of staff and supplies. The environment is challenging and there have been six fatal accidents incurring the loss of 79 lives since the mid-1970s. The need for accurate and reliable helicopter approach procedures has been identified and this paper reports the results of a feasibility study into the use of EGNOS-based approaches to oil platforms in the North Sea.
Rapid population declines of Himalayan Griffon Gyps himalayensis in Upper Mustang, Nepal
Authors: ACHARYA RAJU , CUTHBERT RICHARD , BARAL HEM SAGAR , SHAH KARAN BAHADUR
Published: March 2009

The population collapse of resident Gyps vulture species in South Asia, caused by the use of a veterinary drug diclofenac, has highlighted an urgent need to monitor numbers of other vulture species in the region. This study assessed population trends of Himalayan Griffon Gyps himalayensis in the mountainous region of Upper Mustang, Nepal, which is an important breeding area for the species. Vultures were surveyed in 2002, 2004 and 2005 by recording the number of birds sighted along 188 km of transects, and observing numbers of birds at breeding colonies. The number of birds recorded per day and per kilometre of transect declined by 67% and 70% respectively over the period of study. The number of active nests declined by 84% from 2002 to 2005. The veterinary drug diclofenac was available in pharmacies in the Mustang region. Young Himalayan Griffons, which migrate to the lowland areas of Nepal and, in increasing numbers to India, are highly likely to be subject to diclofenac poisoning. If this rate of population decline occurs throughout the Himalayan region, the conservation status of the species will need to be urgently reassessed.
Distribution, habitat and status of ‘Endangered’ Sakalava Rail of Madagascar
Authors: RABENANDRASANA MARC , ZEFANIA SAMA , LONG PETER , THE SEING SAM , CLÉMENTINE VIRGINIE MARIE , RANDRIANARISOA MIHAJA , SAFFORD ROGER , SZÉKELY TAMA´S
Published: March 2009

The ‘Endangered’ Sakalava RailAmaurornis olivieriis endemic to wetlands in western Madagascar, where it has been recorded between the Betsiboka river in the north and the Mangoky river in the south. Between August 2003 and November 2006, including dry and wet seasons, we surveyed 36 potentially suitable wetlands throughout its known range. We found Sakalava Rails at five sites: Lacs Kinkony, Ampandra, Amparihy, Sahapy and Mandrozo. At each site the population was small (12–39 individuals) and the highest density was 20 individuals km−2. We found up to 67 birds in each field visit and the total number of birds (sum of maxima at each site) seen was 100. We estimate the total population at the five sites to be 215 rails. We cannot confirm that the population lies within the range estimated in the current Red List (250–999 individuals), although this may yet be proven correct. The typical breeding habitat of Sakalava Rail is lotic marshes with a mixture of large areas of open water, reedPhragmites mauritianusand floatingSalvinia hastata. The major threats to Sakalava Rail appear to be habitat loss caused by wetland conversion to rice fields and by fires, disturbance by fishermen and people from local villages, and hunting. Other processes that may alter the ecological character of wetlands and so affect their suitability for Sakalava Rails, such as hydrological change or the effects of exotic fish or vegetation, remain to be investigated.
Impact of body mass on hospital resource use in total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Batsis John A , Naessens James M , Keegan Mark T , Wagie Amy E , Huddleston Paul M , Huddleston Jeanne M
Published: March 2009

Objective

To determine the impact of BMI on post-operative outcomes and resource utilization following elective total hip arthroplasty (THA).

Design

A retrospective cohort analysis on all primary elective THA patients between 1996 and 2004. Primary outcomes investigated using regression analyses included length of stay (LOS) and costs (US dollars).

Setting

Mayo Clinic Rochester, a tertiary care centre.

Subjects

Patients were stratified by pre-operative BMI as normal (18·5–24·9 kg/m2), overweight (25·0–29·9 kg/m2), obese (30·0–34·9 kg/m2) and morbidly obese (≥35·0 kg/m2). Of 5642 patients, 1362 (24·1 %) patients had a normal BMI, 2146 (38·0 %) were overweight, 1342 (23·8 %) were obese and 792 (14·0 %) were morbidly obese.

Results

Adjusted LOS was similar among normal (4·99 d), overweight (5·00 d), obese (5·02 d) and morbidly obese (5·17 d) patients (P= 0·20). Adjusted overall episode costs were no different (P= 0·23) between the groups of normal ($17 211), overweight ($17 462), obese ($17 195) and morbidly obese ($17 655) patients. Overall operative and anaesthesia costs were higher in the morbidly obese group ($5688) than in normal ($5553), overweight ($5549) and obese ($5593) patients (P= 0·03). Operating room costs were higher in morbidly obese patients ($3418) than in normal ($3276), overweight ($3291) and obese ($3340) patients (P< 0·001). Post-operative costs were no different (P= 0·30). Blood bank costs differed (P= 0·002) and were lower in the morbidly obese group ($180) compared with the other patient groups (P< 0·05). Other differences in costs were not significant. Morbidly obese patients were more likely to be transferred to a nursing home (24·1 %) than normal (18·4 %), overweight (17·9 %) or obese (16·0 %) patients (P= 0·001 each). There were no differences in the composite endpoint of 30 d mortality, re-admissions, re-operations or intensive care unit utilization.

Conclusions

BMI in patients undergoing primary elective THA did not impact LOS or overall institutional acute care costs, despite higher operative costs in morbidly obese patients. Obesity does not increase resource utilization for elective THA.
Maternal iodine status and neonatal thyroid-stimulating hormone concentration: a community survey in Songkhla, southern Thailand
Authors: Jaruratanasirikul Somchit , Sangsupawanich Pasuree , Koranantakul Ounjai , Chanvitan Prasin , Ruaengrairatanaroj Prasit , Sriplung Hutcha , Patanasin Thanomjit , Sukmee Siriporn
Published: March 2009

Objective

To determine iodine intake and urinary iodine excretion (UIE) in a group of pregnant Thai women and the concentration of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in their neonates.

Design

A prospective cohort study.

Setting

Three districts of Songkhla, southern Thailand.

Subjects

Two hundred and thirty-six pregnant women.

Results

A quarter of the participants lacked knowledge of iodine and the prevention of iodine deficiency, although 70 % used iodized salt. Those who did not use iodized salt stated that they had no knowledge about iodine (57 %) and no iodized salt was sold in their village (36 %). The median iodine intake in the three districts was 205–240 μg/d, with 53–74 % of pregnant women having iodine intake <250 μg/d. The median UIE in the three districts was 51–106 μg/l, with 24–35 % having UIE < 50 μg/l. The mean neonatal TSH was 2·40 (sd1·56) mU/l, with 8·9 % of neonates having TSH > 5 mU/l.

Conclusions

The studied women and their fetuses were at risk of mild iodine deficiency. About a quarter of the participants lacked knowledge of the importance of iodine. Education regarding the importance of iodine supplements and the promotion of iodized salt should be added to national health-care policies in order to prevent iodine-deficiency disorders, diseases that are subclinical but have long-term sequelae.
Recent experimental data may point to a greater role for osmotic pressures in the subsurface
Authors: Neuzil C. E. , Provost A. M.
Published: March 2009

Uncertainty about the origin of anomalous fluid pressures in certain geologic settings has caused researchers to take a second look at osmosis, or flow driven by chemical potential differences, as a pressure‐generating process in the subsurface. Interest in geological osmosis has also increased because of an in situ experiment by Neuzil (2000) suggesting that Pierre Shale could generate large osmotic pressures when highly compacted. In the last few years, additional laboratory and in situ experiments have greatly increased the number of data on osmotic properties of argillaceous formations, but they have not been systematically examined. In this paper we compile these data and explore their implications for osmotic pressure generation in subsurface systems. Rather than base our analysis on osmotic efficiencies, which depend strongly on concentration, we calculated values of a quantity we term osmotic specific surface area (Aso) that, in principle, is a property of the porous medium only. The Aso values are consistent with a surprisingly broad spectrum of osmotic behavior in argillaceous formations, and all the formations tested exhibited at least a modest ability to generate osmotic pressure. It appears possible that under appropriate conditions some formations can be highly effective osmotic membranes able to generate osmotic pressures exceeding 30 MPa (3 km of head) at porosities as high as ∼0.1 and pressures exceeding 10 MPa at porosities as high as ∼0.2. These findings are difficult to reconcile with the lack of compelling field evidence for osmotic pressures, and we propose three explanations for the disparity: (1) Our analysis is flawed and argillaceous formations are less effective osmotic membranes than it suggests; (2) the necessary subsurface conditions, significant salinity differences within intact argillaceous formations, are rare; or (3) osmotic pressures are unlikely to be detected and are not recognized when encountered. The last possibility, that osmotic pressures routinely escape detection or are attributed to other mechanisms, has important implications for understanding subsurface flow regimes.
Potential biases in inferring Holocene temperature trends from long‐term borehole information
Authors: Mann Michael E. , Schmidt Gavin A. , Miller Sonya K. , LeGrande Allegra N.
Published: March 2009

We use a set of global coupled ocean‐atmosphere general circulation (OAGCM) experiments for timeslices over the Holocene from 9K Yr BP onwards to examine differences in Northern Hemisphere Ground Surface Temperature (GST) and Surface Air Temperature (SAT) trends. The model results are driven mainly by the orbitally‐forced changes in seasonal insolation, and in particular, the increase in northern hemisphere seasonality in the early‐to‐mid Holocene. The model reproduces qualitatively presumed past trends in NH temperatures, though it may underestimate their magnitude. For this period, we see on average a significant increase in GST relative to SAT as a result of a competition between the effects of changing seasonal insolation, and the varying extent of insulating seasonal snow cover. The model shows a mid‐Holocene peak in annual mean terrestrial Northern Hemisphere GST, but not in annual Surface Air Temperatures (SAT). We conclude that the factors influencing long‐term GST trends are potentially quite complex, and that considerable care must be taken in interpreting SAT changes from the GST evidence when there is the possibility of substantial seasonal variation in warmth and snow cover.
The 18.6‐year period moon‐tidal cycle in Pacific Decadal Oscillation reconstructed from tree‐rings in western North America
Authors: Yasuda Ichiro
Published: March 2009

Time‐series of Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) reconstructed from tree‐rings in Western North America is found to have a statistically significant periodicity of 18.6‐year period lunar nodal tidal cycle; negative (positive) PDO tends to occur in the period of strong (weak) diurnal tide. In the 3rd and 5th (10th, 11th and 13rd) year after the maximum diurnal tide, mean‐PDO takes significant negative (positive) value, suggesting that the Aleutian Low is weak (strong), western‐central North Pacific in 30–50°N is warm (cool) and equator‐eastern rim of the Pacific is cool (warm). This contributes to climate predictability with a time‐table from the astronomical tidal cycle.
Tibetan middle tropospheric ozone minimum in June discovered from GOME observations
Authors: Liu Yi , Wang Yong , Liu Xiong , Cai Zhaonan , Chance Kelly
Published: March 2009

Global Ozone Monitoring Experiment (GOME) observations from 1997–2000 have revealed the Tibetan Middle Tropospheric Ozone Minimum (TMTOM), a low‐ozone layer that occurs in the middle troposphere over the Tibetan Plateau (TP) in June. Ozone profiles were derived from GOME observations and validated by ozonesonde measurements at two stations (Lhasa and Xining) over the TP. The mean bias is 5–10% within the troposphere. The ozone profiles reveal the TMTOM phenomenon occurs in the middle troposphere (8–13 km) over the middle and eastern TP in June. Dynamical field analyses showed that the TMTOM accompanies the onset of the Asian summer monsoon. The low‐ozone air from the Bay of Bengal is transported into the middle troposphere over the TP by southwest currents while the lower troposphere over the TP is still occupied by ozone‐rich air blocked by the transport barrier of the Himalayas. The TMTOM was most prominent in June 1998 likely linked to the occurrence of the intense El Niño of 1997–1998 because the Tibetan anticyclone is of large area and has strong intensity during El Niño years. The occurrence of the TMTOM can serve as an indicator of the phase of evolution of the Asian summer monsoon.
Quasi‐static fault slip on an interface between poroelastic media with different hydraulic diffusivity: A generation mechanism of afterslip
Authors: Yamashita Teruo , Suzuki Takehito
Published: March 2009

We theoretically study the generation mechanism of afterslip, assuming a two‐dimensional in‐plane fault on a bimaterial interface that separates poroelastic half‐spaces with different hydraulic diffusivities; the deformation is assumed to be quasi‐static. Our study shows that the coseismic faulting triggers quasi‐static fault tip growth effectively because of positive feedback between the evolving fault slip and fluid pressure buildup. A similar study was made by Yamashita (2007), but he assumed the difference to be only in the Biot‐Willis coefficient and undrained and drained Poisson's ratios. A comparison with the model of Yamashita (2007) shows that the diffusivity contrast is much more effective for the generation of afterslip. We also find that the fault tip is likely to extend unilaterally in the direction of slip in the medium of higher diffusivity; the duration of fault growth is longer for a larger diffusivity contrast. We find a scaling relationship in which the moment released by the quasi‐static fault extension is approximated well by a linear function of the duration of fault growth. This is largely different from the expectations from a 2‐D classical dynamic fault model; the moment is proportional to the square of duration of fault growth if the classical fault model is assumed.
Improved assessment of aerosol absorption using OMI‐MODIS joint retrieval
Authors: Satheesh S. K. , Torres O. , Remer L. A. , Babu S. Suresh , Vinoj V. , Eck T. F. , Kleidman R. G. , Holben B. N.
Published: March 2009

The Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) aboard EOS‐Aura and the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) onboard EOS‐Aqua fly in formation as part of the A‐train. Though OMI retrieves aerosol optical depth (AOD) and aerosol absorption, it must assume aerosol layer height. The MODIS cannot retrieve aerosol absorption, but MODIS aerosol retrieval is not sensitive to aerosol layer height and with its smaller pixel size is less affected by subpixel clouds. Here we demonstrate an approach that uses MODIS‐retrieved AOD to constrain the OMI retrieval, freeing OMI from making an a priori estimate of aerosol height and allowing a more direct retrieval of aerosol absorption. To predict near‐UV optical depths using MODIS data we rely on the spectral curvature of the MODIS‐retrieved visible and near‐IR spectral AODs. Application of an OMI‐MODIS joint retrieval over the north tropical Atlantic shows good agreement between OMI and MODIS‐predicted AODs in the UV, which implies that the aerosol height assumed in the OMI‐standard algorithm is probably correct. In contrast, over the Arabian Sea, MODIS‐predicted AOD deviated from the OMI‐standard retrieval, but combined OMI‐MODIS retrievals substantially improved information on aerosol layer height (on the basis of validation against airborne lidar measurements). This implies an improvement in the aerosol absorption retrieval, but lack of UV absorption measurements prevents a true validation. Our study demonstrates the potential of multisatellite analysis of A‐train data to improve the accuracy of retrieved aerosol products and suggests that a combined OMI‐MODIS‐CALIPSO retrieval has large potential to further improve assessments of aerosol absorption.
Sulfuryl fluoride in the global atmosphere
Authors: Mühle J. , Huang J. , Weiss R. F. , Prinn R. G. , Miller B. R. , Salameh P. K. , Harth C. M. , Fraser P. J. , Porter L. W. , Greally B. R. , O'Doherty S. , Simmonds P. G.
Published: March 2009

The first calibrated high‐frequency, high‐precision, in situ atmospheric and archived air measurements of the fumigant sulfuryl fluoride (SO2F2) have been made as part of the Advanced Global Atmospheric Gas Experiment (AGAGE) program. The global tropospheric background concentration of SO2F2 has increased by 5 ± 1% per year from ∼0.3 ppt (parts per trillion, dry air mol fraction) in 1978 to ∼1.35 ppt in May 2007 in the Southern Hemisphere, and from ∼1.08 ppt in 1999 to ∼1.53 ppt in May 2007 in the Northern Hemisphere. The SO2F2 interhemispheric concentration ratio was 1.13 ± 0.02 from 1999 to 2007. Two‐dimensional 12‐box model inversions yield global total and global oceanic uptake atmospheric lifetimes of 36 ± 11 and 40 ± 13 years, respectively, with hydrolysis in the ocean being the dominant sink, in good agreement with 35 ± 14 years from a simple oceanic uptake calculation using transfer velocity and solubility. Modeled SO2F2 emissions rose from ∼0.6 Gg/a in 1978 to ∼1.9 Gg/a in 2007, but estimated industrial production exceeds these modeled emissions by an average of ∼50%. This discrepancy cannot be explained with a hypothetical land sink in the model, suggesting that only ∼2/3 of the manufactured SO2F2 is actually emitted into the atmosphere and that ∼1/3 may be destroyed during fumigation. With mean SO2F2 tropospheric mixing ratios of ∼1.4 ppt, its radiative forcing is small and it is probably an insignificant sulfur source to the stratosphere. However, with a high global warming potential similar to CFC‐11, and likely increases in its future use, continued atmospheric monitoring of SO2F2 is warranted.
Crater‐associated dark diffuse features on Venus: Properties of surficial deposits and their evolution
Authors: Bondarenko N. V. , Head J. W.
Published: March 2009

In order to assess the nature of crater‐associated radar‐dark diffuse features (DDFs) on Venus and to understand their formation and evolution, we analyzed Magellan radar roughness, emissivity, and reflectivity data in the vicinity of craters accompanied by these features. Following others, we assumed that DDFs are deposits (mantles) of ejected material emplaced during formation of the impact crater. The majority of radar‐dark parabolas (the youngest DDFs) are characterized by a smooth mantle‐atmosphere interface having low root‐mean‐square (rms) slopes on scales of 1–100 m, as derived from Magellan altimeter data. Older DDFs also often have areas with low rms slopes, suggesting that the mantle rms slopes can be preserved for geologically long periods of time. Some parabolas and older DDFs have asymmetric small‐scale (decimeter‐scale) relief that is interpreted to be dunes that formed as a result of eolian processes. This implies that the mantle material is mobile and can saltate under the influence of wind action. On average, aging of these features is accompanied by a decrease of mantle material dielectric permittivity. The most efficient mechanism for parabola degradation seems to be the removal of mantle material from the site of initial deposition by subsequent winds. We found a few examples of features that could be interpreted to be the result of in situ modification of the primary mantle.
Instrumental record of debris flow initiation during natural rainfall: Implications for modeling slope stability
Authors: Montgomery David R. , Schmidt Kevin M. , Dietrich William E. , McKean Jim
Published: March 2009

The middle of a hillslope hollow in the Oregon Coast Range failed and mobilized as a debris flow during heavy rainfall in November 1996. Automated pressure transducers recorded high spatial variability of pore water pressure within the area that mobilized as a debris flow, which initiated where local upward flow from bedrock developed into overlying colluvium. Postfailure observations of the bedrock surface exposed in the debris flow scar reveal a strong spatial correspondence between elevated piezometric response and water discharging from bedrock fractures. Measurements of apparent root cohesion on the basal (Cb) and lateral (Cl) scarp demonstrate substantial local variability, with areally weighted values of Cb = 0.1 and Cl = 4.6 kPa. Using measured soil properties and basal root strength, the widely used infinite slope model, employed assuming slope parallel groundwater flow, provides a poor prediction of hydrologic conditions at failure. In contrast, a model including lateral root strength (but neglecting lateral frictional strength) gave a predicted critical value of relative soil saturation that fell within the range defined by the arithmetic and geometric mean values at the time of failure. The 3‐D slope stability model CLARA‐W, used with locally observed pore water pressure, predicted small areas with lower factors of safety within the overall slide mass at sites consistent with field observations of where the failure initiated. This highly variable and localized nature of small areas of high pore pressure that can trigger slope failure means, however, that substantial uncertainty appears inevitable for estimating hydrologic conditions within incipient debris flows under natural conditions.
A 1‐D vertical multiple grain size model of suspended particulate matter in combined currents and waves in shelf seas
Authors: van der Molen Johan , Bolding Karsten , Greenwood Naomi , Mills David K.
Published: March 2009

Accurate representation of light attenuation by inorganic suspended particulate matter (SPM) is one of the major factors limiting realism in coupled physical‐biogeochemical models used to simulate primary production in shelf seas. The main problem is the accurate calculation of SPM concentrations. A multiple‐grain size advection‐diffusion method is presented, and results are compared to observations. The method has been incorporated in the 1‐D hydrodynamics model General Ocean Turbulence Model. Particular attention has been given to the representation of sediment pickup, which is based on upward diffusion of sediment from a reference concentration near the seabed. Also, a bulk approach is used where the dominant fraction governs the pickup of the other fractions. A seabed model using the active layer approach is included. Moreover, to better represent seasonal cycles in background SPM concentration, a temperature‐dependent kinematic viscosity is used, which modifies settling velocities and sediment pickup. Model results were tested against multiyear time series of surface observations of SPM using an Optical Backscatter sensor on “SmartBuoy” at two sites on the UK shelf and against suspended load observations obtained from Niskin bottle samples. It was found that at least four size fractions are required for reasonable predictions of the SPM concentration at the two sites: a coarse fraction representing the median grain size of the seabed sediments, two silt fractions responsible for most of the variability near the sea surface, and a clay fraction that provides a background concentration with slow variations in time. The method can easily be extended to 3‐D models.
Biostratigraphic Study of the Gurpi Formation Based on Planktonic Foraminifera In Lar Area (Kuh-e-kurdeh Section)
Authors: Shafiee Ardestani Meysam , Ghasemi-Nejad Ebrahim , Mandanizadeh Ali
Published: March 2009

The study of planktonic foraminifera of the Gurpi formations at Lar area (Kuh-e-kurdeh section) enables me to find the most standard biozones defined in mediterranean regions, especially Tethysian domain. Five biozones were determined. Biozones I (Globotruncanita elevata zone) and II (Globotruncana ventricosa zone) and III (Radotruncana calcarata zone) indicate the Early Campanian and Middle and Late Campanian, respectively. Biozones IV (Globotruncanita stuarti zone) and V (Gansserina gansseri zone) suggest the Early and Middle Maastrichtian, respectively. In the Late Maastrichtian, due to decreasing in water depth at the study area, Abathomphalus mayaroensis zone defined in Tethysian domain was not recognised.
Voluntary Exercise and Its Effects on Body Composition Depend on Genetic Selection History
Authors: Nehrenberg Derrick L. , Hua Kunjie , Estrada‐Smith Daria , Garland Theodore , Pomp Daniel
Published: March 2009

Little is known about how genetic variation affects the capacity for exercise to change body composition. We examined the extent to which voluntary exercise alters body composition in several lines of selectively bred mice compared to controls. Lines studied included high runner (HR) (selected for high wheel running), M16 (selected for rapid weight gain), Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) (randomly bred as control for M16), M16i (an inbred line derived from M16), HE (selected for high percentage of body fat while holding body weight constant), LF (selected for low percentage of body fat), C57BL/6J (common inbred line), and the F1 between HR and C57BL/6J. Body weight and body fat were recorded before and after 6 days of free access to running wheels in males and females that were individually caged. Total food intake was measured during this 6‐day period. All pre‐ and postexercise measures showed significant strain effects. While HR mice predictably exercised at higher levels, all other selection lines had decreased levels of wheel running relative to ICR. The HR × B6 F1 ran at similar levels to HR demonstrating complete dominance for voluntary exercise. Also, all strains lost body fat after exercise, but the relationships between exercise and changes in percent body were not uniform across genotypes. These results indicate that there is significant genetic variation for voluntary exercise and its effects on body composition. It is important to carefully consider genetic background and/or selection history when using mice to model effects of exercise on body composition, and perhaps, other complex traits as well.
Dopamine for “Wanting” and Opioids for “Liking”: A Comparison of Obese Adults With and Without Binge Eating
Authors: Davis Caroline A. , Levitan Robert D. , Reid Caroline , Carter Jacqueline C. , Kaplan Allan S. , Patte Karen A. , King Nicole , Curtis Claire , Kennedy James L.
Published: March 2009

Obesity research suffers from an overinclusion paradigm whereby all participants with a BMI beyond a certain cutoff value (e.g., 30) are typically combined in a single group and compared to those of normal weight. There has been little attempt to identify meaningful subgroups defined by their salient biobehavioral differences. In order to address this limitation, we examined genetic and psychological indicators of hedonic eating in obese adults with (n = 66) and without (n = 70) binge eating disorder (BED). Our analyses focused on dopamine (DA) and opioid genetic markers because of their conjoint association with the functioning of brain reward mechanisms. We targeted three functional polymorphisms related to the D2 receptor (DRD2) gene, as well as the functional A118G polymorphism of the mu‐opioid receptor (OPRM1) gene. We found that significantly more obese controls had the “loss‐of‐function” A1 allele of Taq1A compared to their BED counterparts, whereas the “gain‐of‐function” G allele of A118G occurred with greater frequency in the BED group. A significant gene–gene combination χ2 analysis also indicated that of those participants with the gain‐gain genotype (G+ and A1), 80% were in the BED group whereas only 35% with the loss‐loss genotype (G− and A1+) were in this group. Finally, BED subjects had significantly higher scores on a self‐report measure of hedonic eating. Our findings suggest that BED is a biologically based subtype of obesity and that the proneness to binge eating may be influenced by a hyper‐reactivity to the hedonic properties of food—a predisposition that is easily exploited in our current environment with its highly visible and easily accessible surfeit of sweet and fatty foods.
Diabetes of the Liver: The Link Between Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and HFCS‐55
Authors: Collison Kate S. , Saleh Soad M. , Bakheet Razan H. , Al‐Rabiah Rana K. , Inglis Angela L. , Makhoul Nadine J. , Maqbool Zakia M. , Zaidi Marya Zia , Al‐Johi Mohammed A. , Al‐Mohanna Futwan A.
Published: March 2009

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is associated with obesity and insulin resistance. It is also a predisposing factor for type 2 diabetes. Dietary factors are believed to contribute to all three diseases. NAFLD is characterized by increased intrahepatic fat and mitochondrial dysfunction, and its etiology may be attributed to excessive fructose intake. Consumption of high fructose corn syrup‐55 (HFCS‐55) stands at up to 15% of the average total daily energy intake in the United States, and is linked to weight gain and obesity. The aim of this study was to establish whether HFCS‐55 could contribute to the pathogenesis of NAFLD, by examining the effects of HFCS‐55 on hepatocyte lipogenesis, insulin signaling, and cellular function, in vitro and in vivo. Exposure of hepatocytes to HFCS‐55 caused a significant increase in hepatocellular triglyceride (TG) and lipogenic proteins. Basal production of reactive oxygen metabolite (ROM) was increased, together with a decreased capacity to respond to an oxidative challenge. HFCS‐55 induced a downregulation of the insulin signaling pathway, as indicated by attenuated ser473phosphorylation of AKT1. The c‐Jun amino‐terminal kinase (JNK), which is intimately linked to insulin resistance, was also activated; and this was accompanied by an increase in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and intracellular free calcium perturbation. Hepatocytes exposed to HFCS‐55 exhibited mitochondrial dysfunction and released cytochrome C (CytC) into the cytosol. Hepatic steatosis and mitochondrial disruption was induced in vivo by a diet enriched with 20% HFCS 55; accompanied by hypoadiponectinemia and elevated fasting serum insulin and retinol‐binding protein‐4 (RBP4) levels. Taken together our findings indicate a potential mechanism by which HFCS‐55 may contribute to the pathogenesis of NAFLD.
Family Physicians' Practices and Attitudes Regarding Care of Extremely Obese Patients
Authors: Ferrante Jeanne M. , Piasecki Alicja K. , Ohman‐Strickland Pamela A. , Crabtree Benjamin F.
Published: March 2009

Despite the growing epidemic of extreme obesity in the United States, weight management is not adequately addressed in primary care. This study assessed family physicians' practices and attitudes regarding care of extremely obese patients and factors associated with them. A cross‐sectional, self‐administered survey was mailed to 500 family physicians in New Jersey (NJ) during March–May 2008. Measures included knowledge, weight management approaches, attitudes toward managing obesity, challenges with examinations, availability of supplies, and strategies to improve care. Response rate was 53% (N = 255). Bariatric surgery and weight loss medications were infrequently recommended, particularly in physicians with higher volume of extremely obese patients (odds ratio (OR) 0.38; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.23, 0.62 and OR 0.51; 95% CI 0.31, 0.85 for surgery and medications, respectively). Higher knowledge was associated with increased frequency of recommendations of weight loss medications (P < 0.0001) and bariatric surgery (P < 0.0001). There was a high prevalence of negative attitudes, particularly in younger physicians and those with lower patient volume. Increased knowledge of weight‐loss diets was associated with less dislike in discussing weight loss (P < 0.0001), less frustration (P = 0.0001), less belief that treatment is often ineffective (P < 0.0001), and less pessimism about patient success (P = 0.0002). Many providers encountered challenges performing examinations on extremely obese patients. More education of primary care physicians, particularly on bariatric surgery, specific examination techniques, and availability of community resources for obese persons is needed. Further research is needed to determine if interventions to increase knowledge of physicians will lead to less negative attitudes toward weight loss and extremely obese patients.