bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temporal pattern of humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) group structure around Abrolhos Archipelago breeding region, Bahia, Brazil
Authors: Morete Maria E. , Bisi Tatiana L. , Rosso Sergio
Published: February 2007

To characterize temporal patterns of humpback group structure around Abrolhos Archipelago, Brazil, seven years (1998–2004) of data obtained from July through November were analysed. During one-hour scans, observers determined group composition within 9.3 km around a land-based station. A total of 930 scans, comprising 4288 groups were analysed. Seven group categories were identified and their frequencies were 14.6% of 1AD (lone whale), 25.2% of DYAD (two adult whales), 7.3% of TRIO (three adult whales), 5.2 of TRIO+ (more than three adults), 24.9% of MOC (mother and calf), 19.6% of MOCE (mother, calf and one escort), and 3.1% of MOCE+ (mother, calf and more than one escort). Proportions of whale-group categories did not change between morning and afternoon, nor among years. However, as the season progressed, groups with calves increased while groups without calves decreased. This progression may be explained by the segregated migration patterns of humpback whales and also by changes in the social status of individuals. The Abrolhos Reef provides protection from the prevailing winds, which may explain the higher proportion of groups with calves in the area.
Pilot cetacean survey of the sub-Arctic North Atlantic utilizing a cruise-ship platform
Authors: Compton Ross , Banks Aaron , Goodwin Lissa , Hooker Sascha K.
Published: February 2007

Using a large passenger cruise-ship (MV ‘Discovery’) as a platform, a cetacean survey was conducted between 1 August and 3 September 2005 across the northern North Atlantic Ocean and back, covering waters between the UK, Iceland, Greenland and Canada. The objective was to collect sightings data for all cetacean species encountered to begin to collate information for a large-scale sightings database. Two observers employed standard-distance sampling techniques and visual observations (naked eye) to scan for cetaceans during daylight hours and favourable weather conditions. Approximately 112 h were spent surveying over 23 d. A total of 13 cetacean species were encountered, with 173 separate sightings recorded, totalling over 2000 animals. The most commonly sighted species were minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata: N=44), Atlantic white-sided dolphins (Lagenorhynchus acutus: N=34, with group sizes of up to 600), and humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae: N=31). The distribution of minke whales, Atlantic white-sided dolphins and fin whales was linked to underlying oceanographic variables. Overall patterns of distribution were consistent with our understanding of the summer distributions for the species encountered. The survey highlighted the cetacean diversity of the northern North Atlantic region. Repeat work using this methodology will allow an examination of species' distributions and estimation of their relative abundance.
Foraging on squid: the sperm whale mid-range sonar
Authors: André M. , Johansson T. , Delory E. , van der Schaar M.
Published: February 2007

The sonar capabilities of the sperm whale, Physeter macrocephalus, have been the subject of speculation for a long time. While the usual clicks of this species are considered to support mid-range echolocation, no physical characteristics of the signal have clearly confirmed this assumption nor have they explained how sperm whales forage on squid. The recent data on sperm whale on-axis recordings have allowed us to simulate the propagation of a 15 kHz pulse as well as its received echoes from different targets, taking into account the reflections from the bottom and the sea surface. The analysis was performed in a controlled environment where the oceanographic parameters and the acoustic background could be modified. We also conducted experimental measurements of cephalopod target strength (TS) (Loligo vulgaris and Sepia officinalis) to further investigate and confirm the TS predictions from the geometric scattering equations. Based on the results of the computer simulations and the TS experimental measurements (TS squid=−36.3±2.5 dB), we were able to determine the minimum requirements for sperm whale sonar, i.e. range and directional hearing, to locate a single 24.5 cm long squid, considered to be (from stomach contents) the major size component of the sperm whale diet. Here, we present the development of the analysis which confirms that sperm whale usual clicks are appropriate to serve a mid-range sonar function, allowing this species to forage on individual organisms with low sound-reflectivity at ranges of several hundreds of metres.
Movements of sperm whale in the western Mediterranean Sea: preliminary photo-identification results
Authors: Drouot-Dulau Violaine , Gannier Alexandre
Published: February 2007

Sperm whale residency and movements within the Mediterranean Sea were investigated using photo-identification data collected in summer over a 15 year period (1991–2005). Surveys were conducted from a 12 m motor sailing boat. Although dedicated to cetaceans, surveys did not solely focus on sperm whale photo-identification, so time to track and photograph all individuals forming a group was not always available. From good quality photographs, 44 individuals were identified in the western Mediterranean, including the Ligurian Sea, the Gulf of Lions and waters off the Balearics. Eleven identified whales were photographically re-captures. Within-year re-sightings occurred from 1 to 29 d apart, while five identified whales were re-sighted over several summer seasons, from 1 to 7 y apart. Four whales were seen in more than one year in the northern part of the basin, indicating site fidelity to this feeding area. The combination of photo-identification and acoustic data (size estimation from inter-pulse interval measurements) enabled us to demonstrate a north–south movement of some sexually mature males (around 13 m in length), feeding in the northern regions and joining groups of females off the Balearics for around 20 d. These displacements ranged over ~500 km, with travelling time of seven days or less.
Habitat partitioning and the influence of benthic topography and oceanography on the distribution of fin and minke whales in the Bay of Fundy, Canada
Authors: Ingram Simon N. , Walshe Laura , Johnston Dave , Rogan Emer
Published: February 2007

We collected data on the distribution of fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) and minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) in the Bay of Fundy, Canada from a whale-watching vessel during commercial tours between July and September 2002. A single observer recorded the positions, species, numbers and surface activity of whales encountered during boat tours. We controlled for biased search effort by calculating sightings rates for both species in cells measuring 2′ latitude by 2′ longitude throughout the study area. Sightings rates were calculated by dividing the number of sightings of fin and minke whales in each cell by the number of visits by the tour boat to that cell. We used generalized additive models and generalized linear models to examine the influence of benthic topography on whale distribution patterns. Models showed a non-linear relationship for minke whale sighting rates with increasing benthic slopes and a linear relationship for minke and fin whale sightings rates with increasing water depth. Sightings of minkes were concentrated in areas subject to tidal wakes near the northern tips of Grand Manan and Campobello Island. Fin whales were also found off the northern tip of Grand Manan but sighting rates for this species were highest in areas with less benthic sloping topography adjacent to the relatively deep Owen Basin. Foraging was recorded during 87% of all whale encounters and our results indicate that whale distribution in this area is likely to be influenced by depth, bottom topography and fine scale oceanographic features that facilitate foraging.
Sperm whale abundance estimates from acoustic surveys of the Ionian Sea and Straits of Sicily in 2003
Authors: Lewis T. , Gillespie D. , Lacey C. , Matthews J. , Danbolt M. , Leaper R. , McLanaghan R. , Moscrop A.
Published: February 2007

Acoustic surveys for sperm whales, using line-transect methodology, were carried out in the Ionian Sea and Straits of Sicily, Mediterranean Sea, in 2003. A total of 17 whales were detected along 3846 km of designed survey track in the Ionian Sea, and no whales along 892 km in the Straits of Sicily. This total was insufficient to estimate a detection function, so further data were obtained from quasi-random passages made elsewhere in the western Mediterranean in the same year. The encounters included several tight aggregations with inter-animal spacing less than 1 km, primarily from the western Mediterranean. Including individuals from these aggregations distorted the detection function due to the small sample sizes. No such aggregations were found during formal survey of the two areas of interest, and the aggregations were therefore excluded from detection function estimation. The resultant effective strip half-width was 10.0 km (n=40). On the assumption that g(0)=1, the resulting abundance estimates for the Ionian Sea were 62 (with 95% lognormal confidence limits of [24,165]), and 0 for the Straits of Sicily. The low abundance estimate for the Ionian Sea indicates that careful monitoring of the population is needed in the future. During passages along the Hellenic Trench, that were not part of the designed survey, several sperm whales including two aggregations were detected, suggesting that this may be a higher density area and ought to be considered as a separate stratum when designing future surveys.
Geographical and seasonal variation of harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) presence in the German Baltic Sea revealed by passive acoustic monitoring
Authors: Verfuß Ursula K. , Honnef Christopher G. , Meding Anja , Dähne Michael , Mundry Roger , Benke Harald
Published: February 2007

The harbour porpoise is the only resident cetacean species in the German Baltic Sea. Within the last several decades this harbour porpoise stock declined drastically, causing deep concern about its status. Plans of the German government for proposing Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) to implement Natura 2000 and for assessing the impact of offshore windmill constructions on the marine environment led to an increased research effort on the harbour porpoise in German waters. For the first time, long-term passive acoustic monitoring has been conducted in the German Baltic Sea from the Kiel Bight to the Pomeranian Bay from August 2002 to December 2005. Porpoise detectors (T-PODs) have been installed five to seven metres below the water surface at up to 42 measuring positions throughout the investigated area, registering the exact times of echolocation signals of passing harbour porpoises. The proportion of monitored days with porpoise detection in each quarter of the years has been analysed. A correlation of the results with the longitude of the measuring position revealed a significant decrease from west to east in the percentage of days with porpoise detections. Comparison of data gathered in the first quarters with the third quarters of the monitoring years displayed a seasonal variation with fewer days of porpoise detections in winter time than in summer time. Nevertheless, harbour porpoises have been detected year-round at most of the measuring positions in the German Baltic Sea. The present study clearly indicates a regular use of the German Baltic Sea by harbour porpoises with a geographical and seasonal variation in the usage of the German Baltic Sea. The larger numbers of harbour porpoise detections in spring to autumn compared with winter suggests that the German Baltic Sea is an important breeding and mating area for these animals.
Observations of rough-toothed dolphins (Steno bredanensis) off the coast of Utila, Honduras
Authors: Kuczaj II Stan A. , Yeater Deirdre B.
Published: February 2007

Local dive shop operators and fishermen report that rough-toothed dolphins (Steno bredanensis) are frequently encountered off the coast of Utila, Honduras, (16°05'46.5"N 86°55'47.8"W). Our observations suggest that at least some of these animals may constitute a resident population, although the extent of the resident group's home range has not been determined. Twenty-eight rough-toothed dolphins were identified using photo-identification techniques, 15 of which were re-sighted on two or more occasions. The 12 animals that were re-sighted four or more times were typically seen together, suggesting that they constitute a stable social group. At least one of these dolphins is an adult male, and his continued presence in this social group may reflect a social structure for rough-toothed dolphins that differs from that described for other dolphin species. Social interactions often involved tactile behaviours such as pectoral fin rubbing and side rubbing. The observed dolphins sometimes expressed interest in the research vessel and other boats by approaching, and on separate occasions examined a hydrophone and slow moving propeller visually and echoically. Overall, our behavioural observations suggest: (1) synchronous behaviours and ‘tight’ groupings are common while rough-toothed dolphins are travelling; (2) tactile contact is an important aspect of social interactions for rough-toothed dolphins; (3) cooperative behaviour occurs during play; and (4) rough-toothed dolphins are curious.
The habitat preferences of marine mammals west of Scotland (UK)
Authors: MacLeod Colin D. , Weir Caroline R. , Pierpoint Chris , Harland Edward J.
Published: February 2007

This study used classification and regression trees (CART) to investigate and compare the habitat preferences of marine mammals in this area. Data were collected in early summer (June/July) in 2004 and 2005 and the distribution of marine mammal species was compared to 10 ecogeographic variables (EGVs). Of 13 species of marine mammals sighted during the study, there were sufficient sightings to examine the habitat preferences of seven. For all species a measure of ‘shelf tendency’ (distance to coast or water depth) was an important variable and the species could be separated into two groups, the deep-water species and the shelf species, with little overlap between them. The occurrence of both deep-water species (long-finned pilot whales and Atlantic white-sided dolphins) was also related to dynamic variables such as sea surface temperature (SST) or primary productivity. Two of the shelf species (northern minke whales and grey seals) were only linked to topographic variables and were limited to quite specific habitats. A third species (harbour porpoise) was primarily related to topographic variables, but in the shallowest waters was also related to local variation in SST. The occurrence of the final two species (common and white-beaked dolphins) was linked to SST and local primary productivity. However, while both species preferentially occurred in areas with higher productivity, the two species differed in their preference for SST, with common dolphins preferentially occurring in warmer waters and white-beaked dolphins in colder waters.
Residence and site fidelity of Sotalia guianensis in the Caravelas River Estuary, eastern Brazil
Authors: Rossi-Santos Marcos R. , Wedekin Leonardo L. , Monteiro-Filho Emygdio L.A.
Published: February 2007

Between April 2002 and April 2005, 210 estuarine dolphin groups were sighted, with 58 animals individually identified. Fifteen dolphins were photo-identified just once, while only two animals were sighted in 15 different months. Some individuals showed long-term residence (more than 3 y). Residence rates showed heterogeneity in the dolphin's permanence of the estuary, with 60% of the individuals with low numbers (<10) and only 7% showing high values for residence (maximum=45.9). Continued resightings of some dolphins support the regular use of the study area by the animals, despite some individuals that, after a long time without resightings were registered again. Individual range analysis showed that dolphins shared the same common area, the Caravelas River Estuary. A marked fluctuation in the number of photo-identified dolphins was observed in the study area, revealed by the high number of individuals with just a few resightings. The majority of the dolphins (60%) present a yearly residence pattern, as observed in other areas, suggesting that a few individuals show high fidelity for the area, while many other dolphins move constantly between different areas for unknown reasons.
A model for the dynamics of a protozoan parasite within and between successive host populations
Authors: Klinkenberg D. , Heesterbeek J. A. P.
Published: February 2007

Parasite-host systems often include an obligatory environmental stage in the parasite life-cycle, which can be transmitted between successive populations. Complexity even increases if immunity only gradually develops upon re-infection. For a better understanding of such systems we study Eimeria spp. in chickens, a protozoan parasite transmitted through oocysts on the floor. This paper deals with dynamics within and between successive cohorts of chickens by coupling a within-host description of the parasite life-cycle (with immunity) to re-uptake of oocysts from the environment. First the initial environmental oocyst level is related to the maximum infection load within a cohort, as a measure of production damage, from which we conclude that minimum damage levels can be observed with intermediate oocyst levels. Then we relate the initial to the final oocyst level of a cohort, and study the dynamics between cohorts in relation to an oocyst cleaning efficiency after each cohort. The resulting unstable dynamics lead to the conclusion that it will often be impossible to minimize damage by repeatedly cleaning with the same effort: it may be necessary to artificially increase oocyst levels in the shed before each chicken cohort.
Imitating human acceleration of a gyroscopic device
Authors: Gams Andrej , Žlajpah Leon , Lenarčič Jadran
Published: February 2007

Spinning up a Power®ball—a hand-held gyroscopic toy or exerciser that exhibits rotor spin-up when applying appropriate torque to its casing—is a fairly easy task for a human but rather complex to perform with a robot. To accomplish the task of spinning up the rotor of the Power®ball with a robot, we measured the motion of a human and identified the conditions an individual uses for a successful spin-up. Several control approaches were applied to the device mainly using feedback information from the velocity counter and force/torque sensor to synchronize the torque exerted by the device and the motion of the robot. Best human imitation was achieved with two modified learning methods with highest rotor speeds in excess of 1480 rad/s, rating among top 100 world Power®ball players.
Isolated left ventricular non-compaction: the case for abnormal myocardial development
Authors: Breckenridge Ross A. , Anderson Robert H. , Elliott Perry M.
Published: February 2007

Isolated ventricular non-compaction is an increasingly commonly diagnosed myocardial disorder characterised by excessive and prominent trabeculation of the morphologically left, and occasionally the right, ventricle. This is associated with high rates of thromboembolism, cardiac failure, and cardiac arrhythmia. Recent improvements in understanding the embryonic processes underlying ventricular formation have led to the hypothesis that ventricular non-compaction is due to a failure of normal ventriculogenesis, leading to abnormal myocardium which may present clinically many years later. Experimental work in animal models provides several candidate transcription factors and signalling molecules that could, in theory, cause ventricular non-compaction if disrupted.
The glial modulatory drug AV411 attenuates mechanical allodynia in rat models of neuropathic pain
Authors: Ledeboer Annemarie , Liu Tongyao , Shumilla Jennifer A. , Mahoney John H. , Vijay Sharmila , Gross Matthew I. , Vargas Joseph A. , Sultzbaugh Lance , Claypool Mark D. , Sanftner Laura M. , Watkins Linda R. , Johnson Kirk W.
Published: February 2007

Controlling neuropathic pain is an unmet medical need and we set out to identify new therapeutic candidates. AV411 (ibudilast) is a relatively nonselective phosphodiesterase inhibitor that also suppresses glial-cell activation and can partition into the CNS. Recent data strongly implicate activated glial cells in the spinal cord in the development and maintenance of neuropathic pain. We hypothesized that AV411 might be effective in the treatment of neuropathic pain and, hence, tested whether it attenuates the mechanical allodynia induced in rats by chronic constriction injury (CCI) of the sciatic nerve, spinal nerve ligation (SNL) and the chemotherapeutic paclitaxel (Taxol¯). Twice-daily systemic administration of AV411 for multiple days resulted in a sustained attenuation of CCI-induced allodynia. Reversal of allodynia was of similar magnitude to that observed with gabapentin and enhanced efficacy was observed in combination. We further show that multi-day AV411 reduces SNL-induced allodynia, and reverses and prevents paclitaxel-induced allodynia. Also, AV411 cotreatment attenuates tolerance to morphine in nerve-injured rats. Safety pharmacology, pharmacokinetic and initial mechanistic analyses were also performed. Overall, the results indicate that AV411 is effective in diverse models of neuropathic pain and support further exploration of its potential as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of neuropathic pain.
Polymyalgia rheumatica – Fibromyalgie-Syndrom: Symptome, Syndrome oder Krankheiten? Begriffe und deren Inhalte
Authors: Wermelinger
Published: February 2007

Die in der medizinischen Terminologie fest verankerten Begriffe «Polymyalgia rheumatica» (PMR) und «Fibromyalgie-Syndrom» (FMS) werden aufgrund klinischer Erfahrungswerte sowie neuerer medizinischer Entwicklungen als distinkte Entitäten hinterfragt. PMR kann als gemeinsamer Nenner eines breiten Spektrums möglicher zugrunde liegender Erkrankungen verstanden werden. Ein Fokus wird auf das historisch gefügte und aufgrund neuerer Entwicklung noch enger zusammenrückende Begriffe-Paar PMR-Riesenzellenarteriitis (RZA) gelegt. Das FMS wird im Kontinuum chronischer Schmerzsyndrome weitgehend unklarer Ätiologie als arbiträr definierte Extremmanifestation mit unscharfer Begrenzung auch gegenüber anderen nicht primär über das Symptom Schmerz definierten funktionellen Störungen dargestellt.
Symptomatische Therapie in der Hausarztpraxis – Kunst oder Ignoranz?
Authors: Périat
Published: February 2007

Die symptomatische Therapie hat in der Gesellschaft eine gute Verankerung. So ist die Selbstbehandlung der Laien symptomatisch. Auch in der Hausarztpraxis ist sie sehr geläufig. Ein Spezialfall ist die symptomatische Therapie als diagnostische Methode. Voraussetzungen, Nutzen und Gefahren der Unterthemen werden dargestellt.
Outcome of infrainguinal revascularization for critical limb ischemia in diabetics with end stage renal disease
Authors: Sigala  , Georgopoulos  , Langer  , Baunach  , Papalambros  , Sigalas  , Bramis  , Bakoyiannis  , Bastounis  , Hepp
Published: February 2007

Background: End stage renal disease [ESRD] and diabetes have a negative effect on outcome of arterial reconstructions, because they are associated with a vulnerability to infection, an infrageniculate arterial occlusive disease and an increased perioperative risk. The combination of both in critically ischemic patients is traditionally considered a great threat to their limb or life. The risk/benefit ratio of revascularization in this clinical setting is marginal and therefore the decision making is controversial. This study was undertaken to determine the results of arterial reconstruction in patients with end-stage renal disease and diabetes mellitus. Patients and methods: The outcome of 97 patients undergoing 121 arterial reconstructions due to lower limb threatening ischemia were reviewed. Primary and secondary patency rates as well as survival and limb salvage were estimated. Results: Thirty-day operative mortality rate was 10.3%. At one month, one year and 2 year follow-up, the survival rate was 89.7%, 77.6% and 44.2% respectively. Limb salvage at 6 months was 85.6%, at 12 months 75.3% and at 2 years 56.3%. The primary and secondary patency was 92.4% and 93.2% at 6 months and 71.7% and 72.7% at 12 months, respectively. Conclusions: Diabetic patients with ESRD attained an acceptable graft patency and limb salvage but they sustained higher perioperative mortality and morbidity and reduced survival.
Recurrent varicose veins: Sonography-based re-examination of 210 patients 14 years after ligation and saphenous vein stripping
Authors: Hartmann  , Klode  , Pfister  , Toussaint  , Weingart  , Waldermann  , Hartmann
Published: February 2007

Background: The objective of this study was to assess the frequency of varicose recurrence 14 years after flush ligation of the saphenofemoral (SFJ) or saphenopopliteal (SPJ) junction with additional stripping of the incompetent saphenous vein. Patients and methods: Our study group comprised 245 extremities of 210 patients operated upon in 1990 for either great saphenous vein (GSV) or small saphenous vein (SSV) incompetence. Limbs were assessed with Duplex ultrasound by a practitioner other than the original surgeon and relevant patient data was recorded. Results: In 68.5% of re-examined limbs Duplex imaging provided no evidence for recurrent varicose veins at the former SFJ or SPJ. This included 15 legs (= 6.1%) where reflux immediately proximal to the junction but originating from adjacent veins (i.e. pudendal vein, epigastrical vein) was detected. In 31.5%, reflux from the operated SFJ or SPJ (junctional recurrence) was detected but only a minor percentage of legs (6.9%) had actually developed a clinically relevant recurrent varicosity (> 3 mm in diameter) branching out from the former junction and requiring treatment. Patients with a BMI < 30 were less likely to suffer recurrent varicose veins (no recurrence in 72.7%) than patients with a BMI ≥ 30 (no recurrence in 54.5%). Conclusions: 14 years after flush ligation of the SFJ or SPJ with stripping of the incompetent saphenous vein, junctional recurrences were found in less than one-third of re-examined extremities. In the absence of surgical errors, we must assume neovascularisation as cause for these recurrences. Duplex US determined a clinically relevant recurrence (> 3 mm in diameter) in only 7% of limbs. Post-operative varices seem to develop less often after SPJ surgery than after SFJ surgery and according to our data, obesity (BMI ≥ 30) constitutes a significant risk factor.
Floating thrombus in the brachio-cephalic trunk
Authors: Singh  , Pinjala
Published: February 2007

Floating thrombus in a non-aneurysmal and non-atherosclerotic brachio-cephalic trunk is an extremely rare event with potentially catastrophic complications. There is a risk of both peripheral and cerebral embolization. We present a very rare case of floating thrombus in the brachio-cephalic trunk that presented with advanced ischaemia of the right upper limb. Confirmation of the diagnosis was done by CT angiogram. The upper limb symptoms were relieved by thrombectomy, supported by anticoagulation. For floating thrombus in the brachiocephalic trunk, the patient was started on aggressive anticoagulation therapy and there was significant resolution after two weeks and complete resolution after one month.
Interventionelle Revaskularisation bei schwerer mesenterialer Ischämie kombiniert mit einer Angioplastie einer Nierenarterie
Authors: Basche  , Neumeister
Published: February 2007

Wir berichten über eine 82-jährige Patientin mit schwerer mesenterialer Ischämie, erosiver Gastritis, progredientem Gewichtsverlust, Hypertonie, Diabetes mellitus und Nierenfunktionsstörung. Mittels Duplexsonographie und MRA wurden eine subtotale Stenose des Truncus coeliacus und der rechten Arteria renalis diagnostiziert sowie ein Ursprungsverschluss der Arteria mesenterica superior. Des Weiteren lag ein Verschluss der Arteria mesenterica inferior vor sowie eine Stenose der linken Arteria renalis. Wegen des steilen Abgangswinkels der Mesenterialarterien erfolgt der Zugang zur PTA von links transbrachial. Verwendet wurden eine F8-Katheterschleuse, ein F7-Führungskatheter und ein vertebralkonfigurierter F5-Diagnostikkatheter. Der Truncus coeliacus und die rechte Nierenarterie wurden primär mit einem ballonmontierten Stent versorgt (7 × 12 und 5 × 17 mm). Der Verschluss der Arteria mesenterica superior wurde mit dem 5-mm-PTA-Ballon vordilatiert, mit einem selbstexpandierenden Stent (Carotid-Wall-Stent, 7 × 40 mm) gestentet und anschließend mit dem 7-mm-PTA-Ballon nachdilatiert. Die Intervention wurde komplikationslos mit gutem Primärergebnis abgeschlossen, alle drei behandelten Gefäße wurden wiedereröffnet. Die Nachuntersuchung nach drei Monaten mittels Duplexsonographie ergab offene Stents mit regelrechten Fluss- und Druckwerten, verbesserte Nierenfunktions- und Blutdruckwerte. Gewichtszunahme um 2,5 kg.
Isoliertes echtes Aneurysma der Arteria profunda femoris
Authors: Yavuzyasar  , Gawenda  , Brunkwall
Published: February 2007

Es wird über den seltenen Fall eines arteriosklerotischen echten Aneurysmas der Arteria profunda femoris (APF) berichtet. Die chirurgische Therapie bestand aus der Unterbindung des Aneurysma und der Komprimierung des Aneurysmasacks. Das klinische Bild, die Diagnosestellung sowie die Behandlungsoptionen echter APF-Aneurysmen werden diskutiert.
Chronische, erosive Polyarthritis mit lumbalen Rückenschmerzen und chronisch rezidivierenden Oberbauchbeschwerden
Authors: Iseli  , Hüllstrung  , Hasler
Published: February 2007

Eine 1974 geborene Patientin wird über mehrere Jahre wegen einer Rheumafaktor-negativen, erosiven Oligoarthritis behandelt. Infolge von wiederholten Oberbauchbeschwerden wird mehrfach eine Ösophago-Gastro-Duodenoskopie durchgeführt mit Normalbefund oder Diagnose einer Helicobacter pylori-positiven Gastritis. Der serologische Nachweis von Anti-Endomysium- und Anti-Gewebs-Transglutaminase-Antikörpern führt zur Duodenumbiopsie mit Diagnose einer Gluten-sensitiven Enteropathie.
Psychosomatische Medizin in der Grundversorgung
Authors: von Känel
Published: February 2007

Patienten suchen ihren Hausarzt meistens wegen körperlichen Symptomen auf. Weder der Hausarzt noch sein Patient wissen unmittelbar, ob psychosoziale Faktoren bei der Manifestation der körperlichen Beschwerden von Bedeutung sind. Ist dies der Fall, werden dem Grundversorger erst ein patientenzentriertes Vorgehen und biopsychosoziale Grundkenntnisse erlauben, die richtige Diagnose zu stellen, eine angemessene Therapie einzuleiten und die oft langjährige Begleitung des Patienten erfolgreich zu gestalten. Dieser Artikel gibt einen Überblick zum Management psychosomatischer Krankheiten in der Grundversorgung (d.h. körperliche Krankheiten verstärkt durch psychosoziale Faktoren, medizinisch ungeklärte körperliche Symptome, funktionelle somatische Syndrome und körperliche Manifestation einer psychischen Störung). Dieses Vorgehen wird den Hausarzt darin unterstützen, dass die durchschnittlich 30-50% seiner Patienten mit psychosomatischen Beschwerden zwar eine Herausforderung bleiben, jedoch nicht zur Überforderung werden.
Eosinophilie mit Hepatopathie: Ein Fallbericht
Authors: Fatio  , Häne  , Hürlimann  , Fehr  , Stäubli
Published: February 2007

Ein 70-jähriger Patient wurde zur Abklärung von diffusen abdominalen Schmerzen, extremer Eosinophilie, erhöhten Transaminasen und Cholestase-Parametern hospitalisiert. In der Annahme eines idiopathischen hypereosinophilen Syndroms wurde der Patient mit hochdosiertem Methylprednisolon behandelt, mit rascher Normalisierung der Eosinophilenzahl sowie Regredienz der Cholestase-Parameter. Im Verlauf konnte serologisch eine Strongiloidose als Ursache der Eosinophilie nachgewiesen werden, welche erfolgreich mittels Mebendazol behandelt wurde. Die Differentialdiagnose der Eosinophilie ist breit. Allergische, infektiöse, autoimmune und myeloproliferative Erkrankungen führen zur Eosinophilie – zum Teil auch mit toxischer Gewebeinfiltration. Wir möchten mit diesem Fall auf die Möglichkeit einer Strongiloidose – auch nach einem bereits mehrere Jahre zurückliegenden tropischen Aufenthalt – sensibilisieren. Die Serologie (ELISA) ist die sensitivste Untersuchung, da bei ca. 25% der Patienten die Stuhluntersuchung negativ ausfallen kann.
Pathways and timescales for troposphere‐to‐stratosphere transport via the tropical tropopause layer and their relevance for very short lived substances
Authors: Levine J. G. , Braesicke P. , Harris N. R. P. , Savage N. H. , Pyle J. A.
Published: February 2007

We have carried out studies of the transport between the tropical boundary layer, the tropical tropopause layer, and the stratosphere during January 2001 using both atmospheric tracers in a transport model and air parcel trajectories. Most of the transport (approximately two thirds) from the planetary boundary layer (BL) into the tropical tropopause layer (TTL) occurs vertically above the Indian Ocean and the Indonesian and west Pacific regions, consistent with transport dominated by convection. Transport from the base of the TTL into the stratosphere above the dynamical tropopause is dominated (approximately 95%) by transport into the extratropical lowermost stratosphere (ELS) with a much smaller fraction entering the stratospheric “overworld.” Overall, transport from the BL to the ELS is sufficiently rapid that this represents an important route by which very short lived substances (VSLS), emitted at the surface, can influence lower stratospheric ozone. The two approaches, using high‐resolution trajectories and a lower‐resolution transport model, yield generally similar results, increasing confidence that chemistry transport models can capture transport sufficiently well for chemical assessment modeling of the role of VSLS.
Anomalous uplift of the Apennines and subsidence of the Adriatic: The result of active mantle flow?
Authors: Shaw Malcolm , Pysklywec Russell
Published: February 2007

We consider the potential for interpreted mantle flow to generate anomalous topography across the north‐central Mediterranean. A seismic tomography section was translated into the temperature domain and used as input into a series of 2D thermo‐mechanical numerical models of crust‐mantle deformation. The generated dynamic topography signal was then compared with a derived residual topography that showed a distinct residual low across the Adriatic Sea and easternmost Apennines and a residual high to the west of the Apennine range and into the Tyrrhenian Sea. A good spatial correlation was found between the modeled dynamic effects of inferred underlying mantle structure and the observed residual topography. The results of this study suggest that underlying mantle structure may play a role in supporting the (dynamic) anomalous surface topography along the investigated profile and within the north‐central Mediterranean.
Flux transfer events in the cusp
Authors: Omidi N. , Sibeck D. G.
Published: February 2007

We use 2.5‐dimensional global hybrid (kinetic ions, fluid electrons) simulations to study the evolution of Flux Transfer Events (FTEs) and their interaction with the cusp during their poleward motion. A southward pointing interplanetary magnetic field is considered. It results in low‐latitude, time‐dependent reconnection and the formation of multiple FTEs with a variety of sizes ranging from a few hundred to thousands of km. FTEs are found to travel along the magnetopause surface with velocities exceeding the surrounding magnetosheath by ∼1 local Alfven speed. As a result, a slow mode bow wave and a pile up of plasma and magnetic field precede larger, but not smaller, FTEs. As an FTE encounters the cusp, a secondary magnetic reconnection is initiated which ultimately leads to its disintegration as it moves to higher latitudes. Both the slow mode bow wave and reconnection accelerate plasma into the cusp and enhance the flux of energetic ions in this region. The downward flux of ions at a given energy moves poleward in time, exhibiting characteristics similar to the poleward moving auroral forms previously attributed to FTEs.
Interseismic deformation above the Sunda Megathrust recorded in coral microatolls of the Mentawai islands, West Sumatra
Authors: Natawidjaja Danny Hilman , Sieh Kerry , Galetzka John , Suwargadi Bambang W. , Cheng Hai , Edwards R. Lawrence , Chlieh Mohamed
Published: February 2007

The geomorphology and internal stratigraphy of modern coral microatolls show that all the outer arc Mentawai islands of West Sumatra have been subsiding over the past several decades. These same islands rose as much as 3 m during the giant megathrust earthquakes of 1797 and 1833, and the current subsidence probably reflects strain accumulation that will lead to future large earthquakes. Average subsidence rates over the past half century vary from 2 to 14 mm yr−1 and increase southwestward, toward the subduction trench. The pattern is consistent with rates of subsidence measured by a sparse network of continuously recording Global Positioning System (cGPS) stations and with locking of a 400‐km‐long section of the underlying subduction megathrust, between about 1°S and 4°S. This record of subsidence and tilting, extending nearly a century into the past, implies that the region is advancing toward the occurrence of another giant earthquake. However, evidence of episodic rather than steady subsidence reflects a behavior that is more complex than simple elastic strain accumulation and relief. Most prominent of these episodes is an extensive emergence/subsidence couplet in about 1962, which may be the result of rapid, aseismic slip on the megathrust, between the islands and the trench. Lower subsidence rates recorded by the corals since about 1985 may reflect failure on many small patches within the locked section of the megathrust.
Waveform inversion of volcano‐seismic signals for an extended source
Authors: Nakano M. , Kumagai H. , Chouet B. , Dawson P.
Published: February 2007

We propose a method to investigate the dimensions and oscillation characteristics of the source of volcano‐seismic signals based on waveform inversion for an extended source. An extended source is realized by a set of point sources distributed on a grid surrounding the centroid of the source in accordance with the source geometry and orientation. The source‐time functions for all point sources are estimated simultaneously by waveform inversion carried out in the frequency domain. We apply a smoothing constraint to suppress short‐scale noisy fluctuations of source‐time functions between adjacent sources. The strength of the smoothing constraint we select is that which minimizes the Akaike Bayesian Information Criterion (ABIC). We perform a series of numerical tests to investigate the capability of our method to recover the dimensions of the source and reconstruct its oscillation characteristics. First, we use synthesized waveforms radiated by a kinematic source model that mimics the radiation from an oscillating crack. Our results demonstrate almost complete recovery of the input source dimensions and source‐time function of each point source, but also point to a weaker resolution of the higher modes of crack oscillation. Second, we use synthetic waveforms generated by the acoustic resonance of a fluid‐filled crack, and consider two sets of waveforms dominated by the modes with wavelengths 2L/3 and 2W/3, or L and 2L/5, where W and L are the crack width and length, respectively. Results from these tests indicate that the oscillating signature of the 2L/3 and 2W/3 modes are successfully reconstructed. The oscillating signature of the L mode is also well recovered, in contrast to results obtained for a point source for which the moment tensor description is inadequate. However, the oscillating signature of the 2L/5 mode is poorly recovered owing to weaker resolution of short‐scale crack wall motions. The triggering excitations of the oscillating cracks are successfully reconstructed.
Performance assessment of a five‐channel estimation‐based ice cloud retrieval scheme for use over the global oceans
Authors: Cooper Steven J. , L'Ecuyer Tristan S. , Gabriel Philip , Baran Anthony J. , Stephens Graeme L.
Published: February 2007

This work determines the performance of a five‐channel ice cloud retrieval scheme in context of numerical synthetic experiments and real‐world data and examines the implications of these results on the global retrieval of ice cloud microphysical properties over the global oceans. This estimation‐based scheme, designed from information content principles, uses a rigorous, state‐dependent error analysis to combine measurements from the visible, near‐infrared, and infrared spectral regions. In the synthetic experiments, the five‐channel scheme performed as well or better in terms of retrieval bias and random error than the traditional split‐window and Nakajima and King bispectral retrieval techniques for all states of the atmosphere. Although the five‐channel scheme performed favorably compared to the other methods, the inherently large uncertainties associated with ice cloud physics dictate typical retrieval uncertainties in both IWP and effective radius of 30–40%. These relatively large uncertainties suggest caution in the strict interpretation of small temporal or spatial trends found in existing cloud products. In MODIS and CRYSTAL‐FACE applications, the five‐channel scheme exploited the strengths of each of the bispectral approaches to smoothly transition from a split‐window type approach for thin clouds to a Nakajima and King type approach for thick clouds. Uniform application of such a retrieval scheme across different satellite and field measurement campaigns would provide a set of consistent cloud products to the user community, theoretically allowing the direct comparison of cloud properties for the climate processes studies found throughout the literature.
Convection in ice I shells and mantles with self‐consistent grain size
Authors: Barr Amy C. , McKinnon William B.
Published: February 2007

The viscosity of ice I is grain size dependent for temperature and stress conditions appropriate for ice I shells and mantles of large and midsized icy satellites. Satellite thermal evolution, heat flux, critical shell thickness for convection, brittle/ductile transition temperature, and potential for surface deformation are therefore grain size dependent. Using measured grain sizes from terrestrial ice sheets experiencing temperature and strain rate conditions similar to convecting ice shells in icy satellites, we develop two end‐member models of grain size and its evolution. In the absence of non–water ice impurities, grain size in a convecting ice shell of a large icy satellite will evolve over time to an equilibrium value, which we determine to be between 30 and 80 mm, because of dynamic recrystallization. Such large grains imply viscous ice, so convection in an ice shell thinner than 35 km in a large icy satellite such as Ganymede and Callisto would be sluggish at best and may cease after a few convective overturns (if it starts). Soluble ions and silicate microparticles may keep grains small, however, of order 1–5 mm, and permit convection in shells as thin as 30 km in large icy satellites. The dynamic recrystallization model provides a plausible upper limit on grain size in a geodynamically evolved ice shell, whereas grain sizes from dust‐contaminated terrestrial ice cores provide a plausible lower limit on grain size in an icy satellite. On the basis of these constraints, grain sizes in evolved ice shells of large water ice satellites, in the absence of tidal forcing, should be of order 1 mm to 10 cm.
A permanent El Niño–like state during the Pliocene?
Authors: Haywood Alan M. , Valdes Paul J. , Peck Victoria L.
Published: February 2007

The Pliocene may have been characterized by permanent El Niño–like conditions. Initial modeling studies suggest that this may have contributed to Pliocene warmth. The termination of this state may have influenced Northern Hemisphere glaciation (NHG). We use the Hadley Centre Coupled Model version 3 to examine the role of the oceans and ocean structure on Pliocene warmth. A permanent El Niño–like state is not predicted. Annual mean sea surface temperatures in the eastern equatorial Pacific at Ocean Drilling Program Sites 847 and 851 increase by 1.71°C and 1.15°C, respectively. However, El Niño Southern Oscillation events are clearly expressed by the model. Sensitivity tests indicate that a prescribed permanent El Niño–like condition increases annual global mean surface temperatures by a maximum of 0.6°C. If the Pliocene was characterized by such a condition, it is questionable that it provided a major contribution to global warmth and therefore unlikely that the termination of this state contributed significantly to the onset of NHG.
Effects of levosimendan on cardiac remodeling and cardiomyocyte apoptosis in hypertensive Dahl/Rapp rats
Authors: Louhelainen M , Vahtola E , Kaheinen P , Leskinen H , Merasto S , Kytö V , Finckenberg P , Colucci W S , Levijoki J , Pollesello P , Haikala H , Mervaala E M A
Published: February 2007

Background and purpose:

Progression of heart failure in hypertensive Dahl rats is associated with cardiac remodeling and increased cardiomyocyte apoptosis. This study was conducted to study whether treatment with a novel inotropic vasodilator compound, levosimendan, could prevent hypertension‐induced cardiac remodeling and cardiomyocyte apoptosis.

Experimental approach:

6‐week‐old salt‐sensitive Dahl/Rapp rats received levosimendan (0.3 mg kg‐1and 3 mg kg‐1via drinking fluid) and high salt diet (NaCl 7%) for 7 weeks, Dahl/Rapp rats on low‐salt diet served as controls. Blood pressure, cardiac functions by echocardiography, cardiomyocyte apoptosis by TUNEL technique, tissue morphology, myocardial expression of calcium cycling proteins, and markers of neurohumoral activation were determined.

Key Results:

Untreated Dahl/Rapp rats on high salt diet developed severe hypertension, cardiac hypertrophy and moderate systolic dysfunction. 38% of Dahl/Rapp rats (9/24) survived the 7‐week‐follow‐up period. Cardiomyocyte apoptosis was increased by 6‐fold during high salt diet. Levosimendan improved survival (survival rates in low‐ and high‐dose levosimendan groups 12/12 and 9/12, p<0.001 and p=0.05, respectively), increased cardiac function, and ameliorated cardiac hypertrophy. Levosimendan dose‐dependently prevented cardiomyocyte apoptosis. Levosimendan normalized salt‐induced increased expression of natriuretic peptide, and decreased urinary noradrenaline excretion. Levosimendan also corrected salt‐induced decreases in myocardial SERCA2a protein expression and myocardial SERCA2a/NCX‐ratio.

Conclusions and Implications:

Improved survival by the novel inotropic vasodilator levosimendan in hypertensive Dahl/Rapp rats is mediated, at least in part, by amelioration of hypertension‐induced cardiac remodeling and cardiomyocyte apoptosis.

British Journal of Pharmacology(2007)150,851–861. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0707157