bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Atmospheric dust modeling from meso to global scales with the online NMMB/BSC-Dust model – Part 1: Model description, annual simulations and evaluation
Authors: Pérez C. , Haustein K. , Janjic Z. , Jorba O. , Huneeus N. , Baldasano J. M. , Black T. , Basart S. , Nickovic S. , Miller R. L. , Perlwitz J. P. , Schulz M. , Thomson M.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. We describe and evaluate the NMMB/BSC-Dust, a new dust aerosol cycle model embedded online within the NCEP Non-hydrostatic Multiscale Model (NMMB). NMMB is a further evolution of the operational Non-hydrostatic Mesoscale Model (WRF-NMM), which together with other upgrades has been extended from meso to global scales. Its unified non-hydrostatic dynamical core is prepared for regional and global simulation domains. The new NMMB/BSC-Dust is intended to provide short to medium-range weather and dust forecasts from regional to global scales and represents a first step towards the development of a unified chemical-weather model. This paper describes the parameterizations used in the model to simulate the dust cycle including sources, transport, deposition and interaction with radiation. We evaluate monthly and annual means of the global configuration of the model against the AEROCOM dust benchmark dataset for year 2000 including surface concentration, deposition and aerosol optical depth (AOD), and we evaluate the daily AOD variability in a regional domain at high resolution covering Northern Africa, Middle East and Europe against AERONET AOD for year 2006. The NMMB/BSC-Dust provides a good description of the horizontal distribution and temporal variability of the dust. Daily AOD correlations at the regional scale are around 0.6–0.7 on average without dust data assimilation. At the global scale the model lies within the top range of AEROCOM dust models in terms of performance statistics for surface concentration, deposition and AOD. This paper discusses the current strengths and limitations of the modeling system and points towards future improvements.
Analytical system for stable carbon isotope measurements of low molecular weight (C2-C6) hydrocarbons
Authors: Zuiderweg A. , Holzinger R. , Röckmann T.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. We present setup, testing and initial results from a new automated system for stable carbon isotope ratio measurements on C2 to C6 atmospheric hydrocarbons. The inlet system allows analysis of trace gases from air samples ranging from a few liters for urban samples and samples with high mixing ratios, to many tens of liters for samples from remote unpolluted regions with very low mixing ratios. The centerpiece of the sample preparation is the separation trap, which is used to separate CO2 and methane from the compounds of interest. The main features of the system are (i) the capability to sample up to 300 l of air, (ii) long term (since May 2009) operational δ13C accuracy levels in the range 0.3–0.8 ‰ (1-σ), and (iii) detection limits of order 1.5–2.5 ngC (collected amount of substance) for all reported compounds. The first application of this system was the analysis of 21 ambient air samples taken during 48 h in August 2009 in Utrecht, the Netherlands. Results obtained are generally in good agreement with those from similar urban ambient air studies. Short sample intervals allowed by the design of the instrument help to illustrate the complex diurnal behavior of hydrocarbons in an urban environment, where diverse sources, dynamical processes, and chemical reactions are present.
Volume cross section of auroral radar backscatter and RMS plasma fluctuations inferred from coherent and incoherent scatter data: a response on backscatter volume parameters
Authors: Uspensky M. V. , Janhunen P. , Koustov A. V. , Kauristie K.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. Norway and Finland STARE radar measurements in the eastward auroral electrojet are combined with EISCAT CP-1 measurements of the electron density and electric field vector in the common scattering volume to investigate the variation of the auroral radar volume cross section (VCS) with the flow angle of observations (radar look direction with respect to the E×B electron drift). The data set available consists of ~6000 points for flow angles of 40–85° and electron drifts between 500 and 2000 m s−1. The EISCAT electron density N(h)-profile data are used to estimate the effective electron density, aspect angle and thickness of the backscattering layer. It is shown that the flow angle variation of the VCS is rather weak, only ~5 dB within the range of the considered flow angles. The VCS values themselves respond almost linearly to the square of both the electron drift velocity magnitude and the effective electron density. By adopting the inferred shape of the VCS variation with the flow angle and the VCS dependence upon wavelength, the relative amplitude of electrostatic electron density fluctuations over all scales is estimated. Inferred values of 2–4 percent react nearly linearly to the electron drift velocity in the range of 500–1000 m s−1 but the rate of increase slows down at electron drifts >1000 m s−1 and density fluctuations of ~5.5 percent due to, perhaps, progressively growing nonlinear wave losses.
New insights into the stratospheric and mesosphere-lower thermospheric ozone response to the abrupt changes in solar forcing
Authors:   Karanam Kishore Kumar, Subrahmanyam K. V. ,   Sherine Rachel John
Published: June 2011

Abstract. Using a unique set of satellite based observations of the vertical distribution of ozone during the recent annular solar eclipse of 15 January 2010, we demonstrate for the first time, a complete picture of the response of stratospheric ozone to abrupt changes in solar forcing. The stratospheric ozone decreased after the maximum obscuration of the Sun and then gradually increased with time. A dramatic increase in stratospheric ozone of up to 4 ppmv is observed 3 h after the maximum obscuration of the Sun. The present study also reports for the first time the mesosphere-lower thermospheric ozone response to solar eclipse. Thus it is envisaged that the present results will have important implications in understanding the ozone response to abrupt changes in solar forcing and time-scales involved in such response.
Controls over aboveground forest carbon density on Barro Colorado Island, Panama
Authors: Mascaro J. , Asner G. P. , Muller-Landau H. C. , van Breugel M. , Hall J. , Dahlin K.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. Despite the importance of tropical forests to the global carbon cycle, ecological controls over landscape-level variation in live aboveground carbon density (ACD) in tropical forests are poorly understood. Here, we conducted a spatially comprehensive analysis of ACD variation for a continental tropical forest – Barro Colorado Island, Panama (BCI) – and tested site factors that may control such variation. We mapped ACD over 1256 ha of BCI using airborne Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), which was well-correlated with ground-based measurements of ACD in Panamanian forests of various ages (r2 = 0.84, RMSE = 17 Mg C ha−1, P < 0.0001). We used multiple regression to examine controls over LiDAR-derived ACD, including slope angle, forest age, bedrock, and soil texture. Collectively, these variables explained 14 % of the variation in ACD at 30-m resolution, and explained 33 % at 100-m resolution. At all resolutions, slope (linked to underlying bedrock variation) was the strongest driving factor; standing carbon stocks were generally higher on steeper slopes. This result suggests that physiography may be more important in controlling ACD variation in Neotropical forests than currently thought. Although BCI has been largely undisturbed by humans for a century, past land-use over approximately half of the island still influences ACD variation, with younger forests (80–130 years old) averaging ~15 % less carbon storage than old-growth forests (>400 years old). If other regions of relatively old tropical secondary forests also store less carbon aboveground than primary forests, the effects on the global carbon cycle could be substantial and difficult to detect with traditional satellite monitoring.
Volcanic and ENSO effects in China in simulations and reconstructions: Tambora eruption 1815
Authors: Zhang D. , Blender R. , Fraedrich K.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. The co-operative effects of volcanic eruptions and ENSO (El Niño/Southern Oscillation) on the climate in China are analyzed in a millennium simulation for 800–2005 AD using the earth system model (ESM) ECHAM5/MPIOM/JSBACH subject to anthropogenic and natural forcings. The experiment includes two ensembles with weak (5 members) and strong (3 members) total solar irradiance variability. In the absence of El Niño and La Niña events, volcanoes, which are the dominant forcing in both ensembles, cause a dramatic cooling in West China (−2 °C) and a drought in East China during the year after the eruption. The recovery times for the volcano induced cooling vary globally between one and 12 yr; in China these values are mostly within 1–4 yr, but reach 10 yr in the Northeast. Without volcanoes, after El Niño events the summer precipitation is reduced in the North, while South China becomes wetter (indicated by the Standardized Precipitation Index, SPI, for summers, JJA); La Niña events cause opposite effects. El Niño events in the winters after eruptions compensate the cooling in most regions of China, while La Niña events intensify the cooling (up to −2.5 °C). The simulated impact of the eruption of the Tambora in 1815, which caused the "year without summer" 1816 in Europe and North America and coldness and famines for several years in the Chinese province Yunnan, depends crucially on the ENSO state of the coupled model. A comparison with reconstructed El Niño events shows a moderate cool climate with wet (in the South) and extreme dry anomalies (in the North) persisting for several years.
Ant Colony Algorithm for Just-in-Time Job Shop Scheduling with Transportation Times and Multirobots
Authors: El Khoukhi Fatima , Lamoudan Tarik , Boukachour Jaouad , El Hilali Alaoui Ahmed
Published: June 2011

Handling rapidly evolving technology and almost daily changes in demand and customer satisfaction, while maintaining competitiveness in a highly competitive environment, requires good coordination and planning of both production and logistics activities on the shop floor, namely: machines and tools. The goal is to optimize costs and reduce delivery lead times in order to provide the customer just in time; we focus on the job shop scheduling problem (JSSP), which is one of the most complex problems encountered in real shop floor. In this paper, we study a generalized (JSSP) including transportation times and a set of additional constraints on the number of transporter vehicles and their multiple transfer capabilities and also on the limited capacity of input/output of machines. The objective is to minimize in one hand tardiness and earliness penalties on delays and advances compared to the lead-time delivery of finished jobs and on the other hand the number of empty moves of transporter vehicles.
Endourological Management of Urolithiasis in Donor Kidneys prior to Renal Transplant
Authors: Vasdev Nikhil , Moir John , Dosani Muhammed T. , Williams Robert , Soomro Naeem , Talbot David , Rix David
Published: June 2011

Background. We present our centres successful endourological methodology of ex vivo ureteroscopy (EVFUS) in the management of these kidneys prior to renal transplantation. Patient and Methods. A retrospective analysis was performed of all living donors (n=157) identified to have asymptomatic incidental renal calculi from January 2004 until December 2008. The incidence of asymptomatic renal calculi was 3.2% (n=5). Donors were subdivided into 2 groups depending on whether theydonated the kidney with the renal calculus (Group 1) versus the opposite calculus-free kidney (Group 2). Results. All donors in Group 1 underwent a left laparoscopic donor nephrectomy. The calculi were extracted in all 3 cases using a 7.5 Fr flexible ureteroscope either prior to transplant (n=2) or on revascularization (n=1). There were no urological complications in either group. At a mean followup at 64 months there was no recurrent calculi formation in the recipient in Group 1. However, 1 recipient formed a calculus in group 2 at a follow up of 72 months. Conclusions. Renal calculi can be successfully retrieved during living-related transplantation at the time of transplant itself using EVUS. This is technically feasible and is associated with no compromise in ureteral integrity or renal allograft function.
Novel Phenazine 5,10-Dioxides Release •OH in Simulated Hypoxia and Induce Reduction of Tumour Volume In Vivo
Authors: Lavaggi María L. , Cabrera Mauricio , Pintos Cristina , Arredondo Carolina , Pachón Gisela , Rodríguez Jorge , Raymondo Stella , Pacheco José Pedro , Cascante Marta , Olea-Azar Claudio , López de Ceráin Adela , Monge Antonio , Cerecetto Hugo , González Mercedes
Published: June 2011

Phenazine 5,10-dioxides (PDOs) are a new class of bioreductive cytotoxins, which could act towards tumours containing hypoxic regions. The PDOs selective-hypoxic bioreduction was probed in vitro; however, the mechanism of action has not been completely explained. Besides, PDOs in vivo antitumour activities have not been demonstrated hitherto. We study the mechanism of hypoxic/normoxic cytotoxicity of PDO representative members. Electron spin resonance is used to confirm •OH production, alkaline comet assay to determine genotoxicity, and gel electrophoresis and flow cytometry to analyze DNA fragmentation and cell cycle distribution. Chemically induced rat breast tumours are employed to evaluate in vivo activities. For the most selective cytotoxin, 7(8)-bromo-2-hydroxyphenazine 5,10-dioxide (PDO1), exclusive hypoxic •OH production is evidenced, while for the unselective ones, •OH is produced in both conditions (normoxia and simulated hypoxia). In normoxia (Caco-2 cells), PDO1 induces cell-cycle arrest and DNA fragmentation but does not significantly induce apoptosis neither at IC50 nor IC80. No difference in the comet-assay scores are observed in normoxia and simulated hypoxia being the unselective 2-amino-7(8)-bromophenazine 5,10-dioxide (PDO2) the most genotoxic. The in vivo efficacy with the absence of systemic toxicity of PDO1 and PDO2 is checked out. Results from this study highlight the potential of PDOs as new therapeutics for cancer.
An Algorithm for the Numerical Evaluation of Certain Finite Part Integrals
Authors: Ashour Samir A. , Ahmed Hany M.
Published: June 2011

Many algorithms that have been proposed for the numerical evaluation of Cauchy principal value integrals are numerically unstable. In this work we present some formulae to evaluate the known Gaussian quadrature rules for finite part integrals
, and extend Clenshow's algorithm to evaluate these integrals in a stable way.
Investigation of Surface Self-Nanocrystallization in 0Cr18Ni9Ti Induced by Surface Mechanical Attrition Treatment
Authors: Sheng Guangmin
Published: June 2011

By means of shot peening (a form of surface mechanical attrition treatment (SMAT)), a nanostructured surface layer was formed on the cross-sectional surface of a 0Cr18Ni9Ti bar. Several characterization methods in common use, such as OM, SEM, TEM, and XRD, were adopted to systematically characterize microstructure features of the nanostructured layer in the top surface of the sample. Microstructure features of the surface layer, which appeared mainly as severely deformed and contained grains with size in nanomagnitude, could be intuitionisticly presented through OM, SEM, and TEM. XRD was a useful method and average grain size and mean microstrain could be quantitatively calculated from the XRD patterns. In addition, analyses of XRD patterns showed that there was a martensite transformation in the top surface layer. Microhardness distribution along the depth of the deformation layer from the top surface showed that the surface self-nanocrystallization (SSNC) layer is a gradient structure and that the hardness of the top surface is greatly enhanced due to grain refinement and work hardening.
A Specific Application of the Proverb in Ecclesiastes 1:15
Authors: Lee Bernon
Published: June 2011

The article seeks to apply the interpretative content of
Ecclesiastes 1:15 within a specific situation. The quest to do so uncovers a
surrounding literary structure (1:13–18) that describes two parallel tasks. With
specific reference to one of the tasks (1:16–17 + 18) and its thematic expansion
in 2:12–17, the article understands the proverb of 1:15 to describe a crooked
world which is without any permanent reward for the wise. The article also
proposes that the proverb depicts the strong presence of a subjective idealism
in the evaluation of the world’s events.
Anti-Jewish Interpretations of Psalm 1 in Luther and in Modern
German Protestantism
Authors: Bauer Uwe F. W.
Published: June 2011

This article presents a detailed analysis of the different
forms of anti-Jewish interpretations of Psalm 1 by M. Luther and in Modern
German Protestantism (as exemplified by W. M. L de Wette, E. W. Hengstenberg, H.
Hupfeld, B. Duhm, R. Kittel, H. Gunkel, A. Weiser, and H. -J. Kraus). These
commentaries reviewed fall into three models of interpretation. The first model
is marked by positive interpretation and Christian appropriation. In this model
the Jews are deemed incapable of attaining the theological level of the Psalm,
because—and reducing what these interpreters say to its essence—the Jews in
their strict adherence to nomism cut themselves off from the Christian truth.
The second model is that of religio-historical degeneration. The distinguishing
feature of this model is that the Psalm is seen as the product of a “decayed
post-prophetic Judaism.” The third model is that of religio-historical
progression. In contrast with the Hebrew-Jewish level of religious development,
which is characterized as external and superficial, Christian religiousness is
seen as more spiritual, more inward, and thus it is considered higher on the
religious scale. If one were to look for a common basis of the anti-Jewish
statements of these exegetes, a decisive factor, in my opinion, is Christology,
more specifically, the Reformation’s justification-Christology with its
exclusivist, anti-Jewish configuration.
On the Nature of Rethinking Prophetic Literature: Stirring a
Neglected Stew (A Response to David L. Petersen)
Authors: Linville James R.
Published: June 2011

David L. Petersen’s 1997 paper, “Rethinking the Nature of
Prophetic Literature” posits a five-fold typology of prophetic literature and
prophetic roles: (1) divinatory chronicles about seers; (2) vision reports
concerning seer/visionaries; (3) prophetic speech from prophets; (4) legends
about men of God; (5) prophetic histories, attributed to intermediaries with no
formal title. Petersen critiques other scholars for stereotyping prophets as
formal speakers or poets, viewing prophetic literature too often as the actual
words of prophets, and reducing its diversity to a single message. Petersen
makes a number of valid points, especially his call for an interdisciplinary
dialogue. Yet, he himself is dismissive of many approaches in the
“methodological stew” that he considers “uninformed”. His typology is supported
by ambiguous evidence, and he works with an uncritically studied premise that
the Hebrew Bible reflects accurate data about prophets. Similar objections can
be raised concerning his complaints about the prejudgments. My critique is based
on a fundamentally different historical paradigm than that of Petersen.
Cross-cultural comparisons cannot reliably describe the social institution of
prophecy, although other types of social scientific research may provide
heuristic tools for study in different directions. The biblical portrait of
‘classical’ prophecy needs analysis as the construction of a later era. The
literary qualities of the texts also deserve attention. Perceptual role theory,
as opposed to the role theory employed by Petersen, may provide a link between
literary and historical research into the manufacturers of the biblical
portrait. The required dialogue is much more eclectic than Petersen’s paper
would allow.
Confused Language as a Deliberate Literary Device in Biblical
Hebrew Narrative
Authors: Rendsburg Gary A.
Published: June 2011

This article presents a paradigm example of confused
language in an ancient Near Eastern literary text, the Egyptian tale of "The
Shipwrecked Sailor." It explains the pertinent passage as a clever literary
device in which confused and irregular syntax is utilized to portray the
confusion that characterized the moment of the shipwreck. It then proceeds to
treat seven biblical passages where similarly confused language is invoked to
portray confusion, excitement, or bewilderment. Two of these passages have been
treated previously in the secondary literature: 1 Sam 9:12-13 and Ruth 2:7. The
five new treatments concern Gen 37:28, Gen 37:30, Judg 18:14-20, 1 Sam 14:21,
and 1 Sam 17:38.
A Metaphorical Etiology in Judges 18:12
Authors: Bauer Uwe F. W.
Published: June 2011

At first glance, the names of the localities in Judg 18:12
do not seem to fit the framework of chapter 18. Traditionally, v.12 (in
particular 12ba) is therefore labelled as an etiological note which was added
later. P. J. van Dijk has made it clear, however, that texts viewed as
etiological often do not explain or legitimize any phenomena, but -as rhetorical
devices -lend credibility to stories. However, the fact that a place named
Mahaneh-dan is unknown to us argues against both the classical-etiological
understanding of v.12 and that of van Dijk. A solution to the problem begins
with the geographical location and the theological meaning of the city of
Kiriath-jearim. Geographically, Kiriath-jearim is in Judah, on the boundary of
the Northern Kingdom; theologically the city may be associated with the ark of
the covenant, and thereby with the Torah of YHWH. That the Danites are encamped
at or beyond of Kiriath-jearim, shows from a Judean perspective that they
distance themselves from Judah and the Torah of YHWH. Their way -leading
diagonally from the Southwest to the Northeast through the Northern Kingdom, and
therefore representing pars pro toto the conduct of life for all of the Northern
tribes -is a way of brutal force and uninhibited serving of idols. Because the
location of the encampment of the Danites is called Mahaneh-dan, "Dan's Camp",
the Danites are characterized as anti-Yahwist desperados. Judg 18:12 is neither
a classical etiology nor a rhetorical device, but a metaphorical etiology, i.e.
a verse governed by its context in such a way, that it signifies something other
than what it appears to signify.
Echoes of Genesis in 1 Chronicles 4:9–10: An Intertextual and
Contextual Reading of Jabez’s Prayer
Authors: Heard R. Christopher
Published: June 2011

First Chronicles 4:9–10 has not received much sustained
scholarly attention, but Bruce Wilkinson’s The Prayer of Jabez has made those
two verses both well-known and newly popular in mass-market Christianity.
Leaving aside the furor over Wilkinson’s popular treatment, this article
elucidates the sense (including overlooked ambiguities in the lexical sense) and
structure of this brief passage internal to Chronicles, explores certain
intertextual connections between 1 Chron 4:9–10 and selected passages in the
book of Genesis, and suggests some possible functions for 1 Chron 4:9–10 and
related passages in 1 Chron 4–5 within the socio-historical context of
Achaemenid Yehud.
Upon an Attack in Nahum 2:2
Authors: Pinker Aron
Published: June 2011

Two options for emending the first prosaic colon of Nah
2:2 into two poetic cola are suggested. If accepted they give all the cola the
same poetic structure and perhaps bring out some military nuances of the attack
on Nineveh.
Ledabbēr Baššelî (2 Sam. 3: 27) “To Talk Peace”
Authors: Malul Meir
Published: June 2011

Ledabbēr baššelî in 2 Sam 3:27 seems to be equivalent in
its underlying meaning to such a technical expression from the vocabulary of
treaty-making as ledabbēr šālôm, and thus it too is to be identified as such a
technical expression denoting “to talk peace” in the sense “to negotiate and
seal a peace treaty”. These two expressions may then be either synonyms, in
which case the hapax šelî would be another word in biblical Hebrew denoting
peace; or the word šelî should be emended to šālôm. Since there is in biblical
Hebrew the root šlh with its various derivatives, all denoting meanings from the
semantic field of peace, quietude and the like, no emendation of the word šelî
is needed. It seems then that the common derivation of this word by most
commentators from the root šlh is eminently possible.
Young Adult Smokers’ Perceptions of Cigarette Pack Innovation, Pack Colour and Plain Packaging
Authors: Moodie Crawford , Ford Allison
Published: June 2011

In jurisdictions where most forms of marketing tobacco are prohibited by law, such as the United Kingdom (UK), the tobacco industry is increasingly turning to innovative packaging to promote their products. Using focus group research we explored perceptions of packaging innovation (including cigarette packs with novel shapes and method of opening), and also plain packaging (all branding removed), among 54 young adult smokers aged 18–35 years, recruited in Glasgow, Scotland. We also examined smokers’ perceptions of pack and plain pack colour. It was found that packs with novel methods of opening, for instance, like a lighter or book, were considered to have a negligible impact upon brand selection, particularly among males. However, a small, narrow ‘perfume’ type pack created enormous interest among females and was perceived very favourably, being considered a fashion accessory and indeed one that helped minimise the health risks of smoking. Coloured plain packs (white, green, light blue, red) without a brand name, any brand descriptors or tar or nicotine levels, were identified by almost all smokers as signalling product strength. Consistent with past research the removal of branding from packs reduced the attractiveness and promotional appeal of the pack, with dark brown ‘plain’ packs perceived as more unappealing than light brown and dark and light grey packs by all groups. Dark brown non-branded packaging for tobacco products would help reduce the promotional appeal of the pack and ensure that pack colour does not provide consumers with false comfort about the health risks of smoking.
Estrogen receptors localization in the spinal trigeminal nucleus: An immunohistochemical study in humans
Authors: Fenzi Flavio , Rizzzuto Nicolò
Published: June 2011

There is increasing evidence for estrogenic modulation of neurotransmission within the trigeminal pain pathway. It is also likely that the effects of estrogens may be influenced by the presence and localization of estrogen receptors (ERs) in a given brain area. To date, human data on the localization of ERs in the spinal trigeminal nucleus (STN), a key brain region in craniofacial nociception, are lacking.

To ascertain whether ERs are expressed in the human STN, we performed immunohistochemical analysis on medulla oblongata samples taken from eight adult subjects (three men and five women; age range, 23–71 years) who had died from causes unrelated to neurologic or endocrine diseases. Paraffin‐embedded sections at the level of the subnucleus caudalis and interpolaris were incubated with anti‐estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) and anti‐estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) antibodies. ERα immunoreactivity was detected in the nucleus and cytoplasm of neuronal and glial cells in the STN and in the nerve fibers within the spinal trigeminal tract in all eight subjects; ERβ immunoreactivity was observed in the cytoplasm of neuronal cells in five subjects. This study is the first to provide evidence in humans that ER immunoreactivity is detectable on neuronal and glial cells of the STN. The two ER subtypes exhibited different expression patterns, with higher expression levels of ERα than ERβ. The presence of ER‐containing cells in the STN suggests that estrogens may directly affect trigeminal neuron excitability in humans.
Self reported pain severity among multiethnic older Singaporeans: Does adjusting for reporting heterogeneity matter?
Authors: Chan Angelique , Malhotra Chetna , Do Young Kyung , Malhotra Rahul , Østbye Truls
Published: June 2011

The objective of this paper is to test and correct for systematic differences in reporting of pain severity among older adults by age, gender, ethnic group and socio‐economic status using anchoring vignettes. Data from a national survey of community‐dwelling older Singaporeans (aged 60 years and over) conducted in 2009 was used. Respondents were asked to rate the severity of their own pain as well as that of others described in the vignettes on a five‐point scale ranging from none to extreme. An ordered probit model was used to estimate the coefficients of the independent variables (age, gender, ethnic group, education, housing type) on self‐reported pain. Reporting heterogeneity in pain severity was then corrected using a Hierarchical Ordered Probit model. The results showed that before correcting for reporting heterogeneity, women, those older, and those of Malay ethnicity reported greater severity of pain, while there was no association of reported pain severity with housing type and education. However, after correcting for reporting heterogeneity, while women and those older were found to have an even greater severity of pain than what they had reported, Malays were found to have a lower severity of pain than what they had reported. We conclude that there are systematic differences in reporting pain severity by age, gender and ethnic group. We propose that pain management may be improved if medical professionals take into account reporting heterogeneity for pain severity among various population sub‐groups in Singapore.
A comparison of the clinical features of fibromyalgia syndrome in different settings
Authors: Häuserl Winfried , Biewerl Werner , Gesmannl Mechthild , Kühn‐Beckerl Hedi , Petzkel Frank , von Wilmoswkyl Hubertus , Langhorstl Jost , Glaesmerl Heide
Published: June 2011

Background: The “funnel hypothesis” of fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) assumes that the high levels of somatic and psychological symptoms reported by FMS‐patients are due to a selection bias of patients seeking for medical specialist care. We tested the hypothesis by comparing FMS‐patients from a general population sample and different clinical settings.

Methods: From a cross‐sectional survey of a representative sample of the German general population, persons meeting FMS‐criteria were selected. Consecutive in‐ and outpatients from German rheumatology, pain medicine, psychosomatic medicine and integrative medicine settings with established or initial diagnosis of FMS were recruited. FMS was diagnosed in all samples by the survey criteria of the regional pain scale. Somatic symptom intensity was measured by 13 items of the Patient Health Questionnaire PHQ 15, depressed mood by the 9‐items PHQ 9.

Results: 96 persons of the general population, 86 of the rheumatology, 80 of the pain medicine, 69 of the psychosomatic medicine and 58 of the integrative medicine setting were included into the comparison. Patients of the clinical settings reported more pain sites and more somatic and depressive symptoms than FMS‐persons of the general population. Patients of the different clinical settings did not differ in the number of pain sites and the intensity of depressive and somatic symptoms.

Conclusions: We found a “funnel” between FMS‐persons of the general population and FMS‐patients of clinical settings, but not between patients of different levels of care. Patients contacting the health care system did not differ in clinical features.
Setting new standards in schizophrenia outcomes: Symptomatic remission 3years before versus after the andreasen criteria
Authors: Gorwood P. , Peuskens J. ,   on behalf of the EGOFORS initiative (European Group On Functional Outcomes, Remission in Schizophrenia)
Published: June 2011

Symptomatic remission is often mentioned as one of the treatment goals for schizophrenia. However, the consistently with which this is documented in the schizophrenia literature since the introduction of the consensus criteria proposed by Andreasen and colleagues in 2005 has yet to be investigated. Similarly, additional treatment goals which are being discussed include improved functioning and quality of life, but whether these goals are being increasingly documented in the literature alongside symptomatic remission is as yet unknown. The objective of this article is therefore to review the use of the term ‘remission’ in the schizophrenia literature from Europe, USA and the rest of the world from 2002 to 2007, before and after the introduction of the Andreasen criteria. A second objective is to determine whether these manuscripts documenting symptomatic remission are also addressing other concepts such as functioning, quality of life and relationships. This literature review indicates that the use of the Andreasen criteria is indeed increasing, although there are manuscripts documenting alternative remission criteria or using the term remission without documentation of specific remission criteria. From 2004 to 2007 the number of manuscripts mentioning remission without documenting specific criteria has fallen by approximately 50%. Within these manuscripts there is increasing awareness of functioning and quality of life as outcome measures, in particular in manuscripts generated in Europe and the USA. This review highlights the growing importance of co-assessment of symptomatic remission and functional outcomes, and calls for further consideration of the most appropriate and consistent way to evaluate functioning of schizophrenia patients.
Effect of Consumer Beliefs on Online Purchase Behavior: The Influence of Demographic Characteristics and Consumption Values
Authors: Punj Girish
Published: June 2011

The three most common beliefs that consumers have about shopping online are that it saves time, saves money and helps find products that best match needs. But how do these beliefs, either individually or in combination, influence online purchase behavior? The premise of the article is that the effect of beliefs on online purchase behavior is moderated by demographic characteristics such as income, education, and generational age, and by consumption values such as the inclination to consider many alternatives before making a choice, the enjoyment of shopping, and the tendency to research products prior to making a purchase. The findings on how beliefs and consumption values influence purchase behavior can assist online retailers formulate product positioning strategies that create more value for consumer segments through better customization, thereby enhancing retailer profits. The findings can also help public policy makers design communication strategies to help lower-income consumers realize the same benefits of e-commerce as their higher-income counterparts.
Magnetic resonance imaging and neuropsychological results from a trial of memantine in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Weiner Michael W. , Sadowsky Carl , Saxton Judith , Hofbauer Robert K. , Graham Stephen M. , Yu Sung Yun , Li Shaoyi , Hsu Hai‐An , Suhy Joyce , Fridman Moshe , Perhach James L.
Published: June 2011

Background

This study was designed to assess changes in brain volume and cognitive abilities in memantine‐treated patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) by using an exploratory, single‐arm, delayed‐start design.

Methods

Cholinesterase inhibitor‐treated patients with AD (N = 47; Mini‐Mental State Examination score range: 15–23) were enrolled in an observational lead‐in period (weeks: 1–24), followed by an open‐label period of add‐on memantine treatment (weeks: 25–48). The patients underwent magnetic resonance imaging at weeks 0 (baseline), 24 (immediately before memantine initiation), and 48 (endpoint), and a battery of neuropsychological tests at weeks 0, 24, 28, 36, and 48. The primary outcome measure was the annualized rate of change (%) in total brain volume (TBV) between the two study periods. Data were analyzed using pairedt‐tests.

Results

There were no statistically significant differences in the rates of change in TBV, ventricular volume, or left hippocampal volume between the study periods; however, the memantine treatment period was associated with a significantly slower right hippocampal atrophy (−5.5% ± 12.0% vs −10.8% ± 7.2%;P= .038). Memantine treatment was also associated with superior performances on the Boston Naming Test (P= .034) and the Trail Making Test, Part B (P= .001), but also with a higher number of errors (i.e., repetitions and intrusions) on the California Verbal Learning Test. Memantine was found to be safe and well tolerated.

Conclusions

In this study, no difference in the rates of TBV change between the two periods was observed; however, memantine treatment was found to be associated with slowing of right hippocampal atrophy, and with improvement on one test of executive functioning as well as a test of confrontation naming ability. Trials using structural magnetic resonance imaging and a delayed‐start design may be a feasible option for the assessment of treatments for AD.
The intermediate alternative effect: Considering a small tradeoff increases subsequent willingness to make large tradeoffs
Authors: Paolacci Gabriele , Burson Katherine A. , Rick Scott I.
Published: June 2011

Prior research has consistently demonstrated that people are reluctant to trade a good they own for an alternative good, particularly when the alternative (or “target”) represents a substantial departure from the “endowment”. We demonstrate that the endowment effect can be reduced by first making participants consider trading their endowment for an intermediate alternative (which shares some characteristics of the endowment and some characteristics of the target). We find that this “intermediate alternative effect” operates primarily by shifting one's reference point in the direction of the target alternative. Even when the intermediate alternative is not adopted, the extent to which one's endowment is treated as a reference point is weakened, which can also facilitate subsequent trading.
Why brands should fear fearful consumers: How attachment style predicts retaliation
Authors: Thomson Matthew , Whelan Jodie , Johnson Allison R.
Published: June 2011

In two surveys of adult consumers, we find that attachment styles predict consumers' reactions after brand relationships end. Specifically, ‘fearful’ consumers—those high in both attachment anxiety and avoidance—are most likely to complain to third parties, to obsess about harming the brand, and to report seeking payback against brands. Two factors mediate the effect of attachment on reactions: threats to consumers' self‐image and the loss of benefits from their relationship. This is consistent with the explanation we propose: specifically, fearful individuals invest in and depend more on consumption relationships and, therefore, lose more when such relationships end.
Subclinical airway inflammation despite high-dose oral corticosteroid therapy in cats with lower airway disease
Authors: Cocayne Christine G. , Reinero Carol R. , DeClue Amy E.
Published: June 2011

Management of feline chronic lower airway disease focuses on controlling clinical signs and decreasing airway inflammation. This retrospective study evaluated the correlation between the resolution of clinical signs in cats with lower airway disease receiving oral glucocorticoids with the resolution of inflammation based on bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) cytology. Ten cats diagnosed with lower airway disease based on characteristic clinical signs and inflammatory BALF cytology received oral glucocorticoids for at least 3 weeks. They were required to have resolution of clinical signs and BALF collected while asymptomatic and still receiving glucocorticoids. Cats received prednisolone or prednisone (average dose of 1.8±0.2 mg/kg daily) for 35.7±5.5 days. Three cats had resolution of clinical signs and lacked inflammatory BALF cytology; seven had persistent inflammatory BALF cytology despite resolution of clinical signs. Given that subclinical inflammation during high-dose glucocorticoid treatment was common, current recommendations to taper therapy based on resolution of clinical signs should be re-evaluated.
Presumptive meningoencephalitis secondary to extension of otitis media/interna caused by Streptococcus equi subspecies zooepidemicus in a cat
Authors: Martin-Vaquero Paula , da Costa Ronaldo C. , Daniels Joshua B.
Published: June 2011

A 5-year-old castrated male domestic longhair cat was presented with neurological signs consistent with a central vestibular lesion and left Horner's syndrome. Computed tomography images revealed hyperattenuating, moderately contrast-enhancing material within the left tympanic bulla, most consistent with left otitis media/interna. Marked neutrophilic pleocytosis was identified on cerebrospinal fluid analysis. Streptococcus equi subspecies zooepidemicus (SEZ) was isolated from the cerebrospinal fluid. Intracranial extension of otitis media/interna is relatively infrequent in small animals. There are no reports of otitis media/interna caused by SEZ in dogs or cats. This is the first report of otitis media/interna and presumptive secondary meningoencephalitis caused by SEZ in a cat.
A case report of an ectopic fetus in a cat
Authors: Rosset Emilie , Galet Catherine , Buff Samuel
Published: June 2011

An ectopic fetus was discovered in an 18-month-old uniparous queen that was admitted for an elective ovariectomy. Six months prior she had delivered three healthy kittens. During the preoperative examination, a mass similar in size to a full-term fetus was detected in the abdominal cavity. Ultrasound examination revealed the mass to be an ectopic fetus in the mid-abdominal region. A mummified fetus was removed by laparotomy. No rupture of the uterine wall was visible, but a small necrotic area was present on the left uterine horn, adjacent to the very proximal portion of the uterine horn. The fetus, which was fully developed and covered by a thin membrane, was carefully dissected. Histological examination did not enable us to definitively prove the extra-uterine development of the fetus; however, the ectopic development of the conceptus secondarily expelled into the peritoneal cavity could be assumed.
Long-term river discharge and multidecadal climate variability inferred from varved sediments, southwest Alaska
Authors: Kaufman Claire A. , Lamoureux Scott F. , Kaufman Darrell S.
Published: June 2011

Sedimentological analyses of 289 years (AD 1718–2006) of varved sediment from Shadow Bay, southwest Alaska, were used to investigate hydroclimate variability during and prior to the instrumental period. Varve thicknesses relate most strongly to total annual discharge (r2 = 0.75, n = 43, p < 0.0001). Maximum annual grain size depends most strongly on maximum spring daily discharge (r2 = 0.63, n = 43, p < 0.0001) and maximum annual daily discharge (r2 = 0.61, n = 43, p < 0.0001), while varve thickness is poorly correlated with maximum annual grain size (r2 = 0.004, n = 287, p = 0.33). Relations between varve thickness and annual climate variables (temperature, precipitation, North Pacific (NP) and Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) indices) are insignificant. On multidecadal timescales, however, regime shifts in varve thickness and total annual discharge coincide with shifts in NP and PDO indices. Periods with increased varve thickness and total annual discharge were associated with warm PDO phases and a strengthened Aleutian Low. The varve-inferred record of PDO suggests that any periodicity in the PDO varied over time, and that the early 19th century marked a transition to a more frequent or detectable shifts.
Barrier island response to late Holocene climate events, North Carolina, USA
Authors: Mallinson David J. , Smith Curtis W. , Mahan Shannon , Culver Stephen J. , McDowell Katie
Published: June 2011

The Outer Banks barrier islands of North Carolina, USA, contain a geologic record of inlet activity that extends from ca. 2200 cal yr BP to the present, and can be used as a proxy for storm activity. Optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dating (26 samples) of inlet-fill and flood tide delta deposits, recognized in cores and geophysical data, provides the basis for understanding the chronology of storm impacts and comparison to other paleoclimate proxy data. OSL ages of historical inlet fill compare favorably to historical documentation of inlet activity, providing confidence in the technique. Comparison suggests that the Medieval Warm Period (MWP) and Little Ice Age (LIA) were both characterized by elevated storm conditions as indicated by much greater inlet activity relative to today. Given present understanding of atmospheric circulation patterns and sea-surface temperatures during the MWP and LIA, we suggest that increased inlet activity during the MWP responded to intensified hurricane impacts, while elevated inlet activity during the LIA was in response to increased nor'easter activity. A general decrease in storminess at mid-latitudes in the North Atlantic over the last 300 yr has allowed the system to evolve into a more continuous barrier with few inlets.
Reconstruction of a complex late Quaternary glacial landscape in the Cordillera de Cochabamba (Bolivia) based on a morphostratigraphic and multiple dating approach
Authors: May Jan-Hendrik , Zech Jana , Zech Roland , Preusser Frank , Argollo Jaime , Kubik Peter W. , Veit Heinz
Published: June 2011

Although glacial landscapes have previously been used for the reconstruction of late Quaternary glaciations in the Central Andes, only few data exist for the Eastern Cordillera in Bolivia. Here, we present results from detailed morphostratigraphic mapping and new data of surface exposure dating (SED), optically stimulated luminescence (OSL), and radiocarbon dating (14C) from the Huara Loma Valley, Cordillera de Cochabamba (Bolivia). Discrepancies between individual dating methods could be addressed within the context of a solid geomorphic framework. We identified two major glaciations. The older is not well constrained by the available data, whereas the younger glaciation is subdivided into at least four major glacial stages. Regarding the latter, a first advance dated to ~ 29–25 ka occurred roughly contemporaneous with the onset of the global last glacial maximum (LGM) and was followed by a less extensive (re-)advance around 20–18 ka. The local last glacial maximum (LLGM) in the Huara Loma Valley took place during the humid lateglacial ~17–16 ka, followed by several smaller readvances until ~10–11 ka, and complete deglaciation at the end of the Early Holocene.