bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gel‐free mass spectrometry‐based high throughput proteomics: Tools for studying biological response of proteins and proteomes
Authors: Roe Mikel R. , Griffin Timothy J.
Published: August 2006

Revolutionary advances in biological mass spectrometry (MS) have provided a basic tool to make possible comprehensive proteomic analysis. Traditionally, two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis has been used as a separation method coupled with MS to facilitate analysis of complex protein mixtures. Despite the utility of this method, the many challenges of comprehensive proteomic analysis has motivated the development of gel‐free MS‐based strategies to obtain information not accessible using two‐dimensional gel separations. These advanced strategies have enabled researchers to dig deeper into complex proteomes, gaining insights into the composition, quantitative response, covalent modifications and macromolecular interactions of proteins that collectively drive cellular function. This review describes the current state of gel‐free, high throughput proteomic strategies using MS, including (i) the separation approaches commonly used for complex mixture analysis; (ii) strategies for large‐scale quantitative analysis; (iii) analysis of post‐translational modifications; and (iv) recent advances and future directions. The use of these strategies to make new discoveries at the proteome level into the effects of disease or other cellular perturbations is discussed in a variety of contexts, providing information on the potential of these tools in electromagnetic field research.
Metabolomics: Current technologies and future trends
Authors: Hollywood Katherine , Brison Daniel R. , Goodacre Royston
Published: August 2006

The ability to sequence whole genomes has taught us that our knowledge with respect to gene function is rather limited with typically 30–40% of open reading frames having no known function. Thus, within the life sciences there is a need for determination of the biological function of these so‐called orphan genes, some of which may be molecular targets for therapeutic intervention. The search for specific mRNA, proteins, or metabolites that can serve as diagnostic markers has also increased, as has the fact that these biomarkers may be useful in following and predicting disease progression or response to therapy. Functional analyses have become increasingly popular. They include investigations at the level of gene expression (transcriptomics), protein translation (proteomics) and more recently the metabolite network (metabolomics). This article provides an overview of metabolomics and discusses its complementary role with transcriptomics and proteomics, and within system biology. It highlights how metabolome analyses are conducted and how the highly complex data that are generated are analysed. Non‐invasive footprinting analysis is also discussed as this has many applications toin vitrocell systems. Finally, for studying biotic or abiotic stresses on animals, plants or microbes, we believe that metabolomics could very easily be applied to large populations, because this approach tends to be of higher throughput and generally lower cost than transcriptomics and proteomics, whilst also providing indications of which area of metabolism may be affected by external perturbation.
Synthesis and characterization of functional gradient copolymers of allyl methacrylate and butyl acrylate
Authors: París Rodrigo , de la Fuente José Luis
Published: August 2006

Functional spontaneous gradient copolymers of allyl methacrylate (A) and butyl acrylate (B) were synthesized via atom transfer radical polymerization. The copolymerization reactions were carried out in toluene solutions at 100 °C with methyl 2‐bromopropionate as the initiator and copper bromide with N,N,N′,N″,N″‐pentamethyldiethylenetriamine as the catalyst system. Different aspects of the statistical reaction copolymerizations, such as the kinetic behavior, crosslinking density, and gel fraction, were studied. The gel data were compared with Flory's gelation theory, and the sol fractions of the synthesized copolymers were characterized by size exclusion chromatography and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The copolymer composition, demonstrating the gradient character of the copolymers, and the microstructure were analyzed. The experimental data agreed well with data calculated with the Mayo–Lewis terminal model and Bernoullian statistics, with monomer reactivity ratios of 2.58 ± 0.37 and 0.51 ± 0.05 for A and B, respectively, an isotacticity parameter for A of 0.24, and a coisotacticity parameter of 0.33. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 5304–5315, 2006
Direct dehydration polycondensation of lactic acid catalyzed by water‐stable Lewis acids
Authors: Takasu Akinori , Narukawa Yuuki , Hirabayashi Tadamichi
Published: August 2006

Poly(L‐lactic acid) (PLLA) is generally produced by ring‐opening polymerization of (S,S)‐lactide, which is prepared from dehydration polycondensation of lactic acid and successive depolymerization. Results of this study show that scandium trifluoromethanesulfonate [Sc(OTf)3] and scandium trifluoromethanesulfonimide [Sc(NTf2)3] are effective for one‐step dehydration polycondensation of L‐lactic acid. Bulk polycondensation of L‐lactic acid was carried out at 130–170 °C to give PLLA with Mn of 5.1 × 104 to 7.3 × 104 (yield 32–60%). The solution polycondensation was performed at 135 °C for 48 h to afford PLLA with Mn of 1.1 × 104 with good yield (90%). In no case did 1H NMR, specific optical rotation, or DSC measurement confirm racemizations. The catalyst was recovered easily by extraction with water and reused for polycondensation. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 5247–5253, 2006
Synthesis and characterization of conducting polythiophene/carbon nanotubes composites
Authors: Karim Mohammad Rezaul , Lee Chul Jae , Lee Mu Sang
Published: August 2006

Conducting polythiophene (PTh)/single‐wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) composites were synthesized by the in situ chemical oxidative polymerization method. The resulting cablelike morphology of the composite (SWNT–PTh) structures was characterized with elemental analysis, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared, ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, X‐ray diffraction, and transmission electron microscopy. The standard four‐point‐probe method was used to measure the conductivity of the samples. Field emission scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy analysis revealed that the SWNT–PTh composites were core (SWNTs) and shell (PTh) hybrid structures. Spectroscopic analysis data for the composites were almost identical to those for PTh, supporting the idea that SWNTs served as templates in the formation of a coaxial nanostructure for the composites. The physical properties of the composites were measured and also showed that the SWNTs were modified by conducting PTh with an enhancement of various properties. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 5283–5290, 2006
Copolymerization of norbornene and styrene catalyzed by a novel anilido–imino nickel complex/methylaluminoxane system
Authors: Gao Haiyang , Chen Yan , Zhu Fangming , Wu Qing
Published: August 2006

Copolymerizations of norbornene with styrene were carried out with a catalytic system of anilido–imino nickel complex (ArNCHC6H4NAr)NiBr (Ar = 2,6‐dimethylphenyl) and methylaluminoxane in toluene. The influence of the comonomer feed content and polymerization temperature on the conversion and composition of the copolymers with (ArNCHC6H4NAr)NiBr/methylaluminoxane was investigated. An increase in the initial styrene feed content led to an increase in the incorporated styrene content of the resulting copolymer. The determination of the reactivity ratios showed a much high reactivity for norbornene (reactivity ratio for styrene = 0.26, reactivity ratio for norbornene = 20.78), which was consistent with a coordination mechanism. NMR analysis of the end groups further confirmed that the chain was initiated through a styrene secondary insertion or a norbornene insertion into NiH and terminated through β‐H elimination from an inserted styrene unit. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 5237–5246, 2006
Defects and their removal in block copolymer thin film simulations
Authors: Bosse August W. , Sides Scott W. , Katsov Kirill , García‐Cervera Carlos J. , Fredrickson Glenn H.
Published: August 2006

In recent years, there has been increased interest in using microphase‐separated block copolymer thin films as submicrometer/suboptical masks in next generation semiconductor and magnetic media fabrication. With the goals of removing metastable defects in block copolymer thin film simulations and potentially examining equilibrium defect populations, we report on two new numerical techniques that can be used in field‐theoretic computer simulations: (1) aspectral amplitude filter(SF) that encourages the simulation to relax into high symmetry states (representing zero defect states), and (2) different variants of force‐biased,partial saddle point Monte Carloalgorithms that allow for barrier crossing toward lower energy defect‐free states. Beyond their use for removing defects, the force‐biased Monte Carlo algorithms will be seen to provide a promising tool for studying equilibrium defect populations. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 44: 2495–2511, 2006
Multiblock copolymers at selective liquid–liquid interfaces: Toward a block size chromatography
Authors: Corsi Andrea , Milchev Andrey , Rostiashvili Vakhtang G. , Vilgis Thomas A.
Published: August 2006

We report some very recent studies on the localization of hydrophobic‐polar regular copolymers at a selective solvent–solvent interface with emphasis on the impact of block length M on their static properties and dynamics. A simple scaling theory is developed and its predictions are compared with extensive Monte Carlo simulations to provide an adequate description of copolymers behavior at such penetrable phase boundary. We have derived and verified the scaling of various quantities such as the components of the radius of gyration parallel and perpendicular to the interface, the lateral diffusion constant, as well as the characteristic relaxation times for the localization of the polymer coil in terms of chain length N and block size M for various strength of the interface. The copolymer dynamics is elucidated by a Rouse‐mode analysis, which reveals a specific coupling of the modes once a copolymer is adsorbed at the selective interface. For the case of copolymer chains being dragged by an external field through the selective interface, we provide results, which suggest a possible application as a new type of chromatography designed to separate and purify complex mixtures with respect to the chain length and the block size of the individual macromolecules. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 44: 2572–2588, 2006
Anti‐fatigue activity of a triterpenoid‐rich extract from Chinese bamboo shavings (Caulis bamfusae in taeniam)
Authors: Zhang Yu , Yao Xiaobao , Bao Bili , Zhang Ying
Published: August 2006

The anti‐fatigue activity of a pentacyclic triterpenoid extract from bamboo shavings (EBS) from the bark of bamboo (Bambusa tuldoides Munro), was evaluated in BALB/c mice. EBS, isolated by the supercritical CO2 fluid extraction (SFE) technique, was given to mice at concentrations of 0.04 (low‐dose group), 0.08 (middle‐dose group) and 0.25 g/kg body weight (high‐dose group). The anti‐fatigue activity of EBS was estimated by the change in body weight, weight‐loaded swimming test and climbing test, and corresponding parameters including serum urea nitrogen, hepatic glycogen and blood lactic acid were measured. The results showed that an appropriate level of EBS could prolong the weight‐loaded swimming and climbing time, and had an active effect on the serum urea nitrogen, hepatic glycogen and blood lactic acid level in BALB/c mice, which significantly embodied the anti‐fatigue activity of EBS. Overall, it is predicted that EBS, being a composition mainly containing a group of pentacyclic triterpenoids, and its main triterpenoid components have great potential for application in relevant fields for its anti‐fatigue activity. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A performance evaluation of multiple classification models of human PEPT1 inhibitors and non‐inhibitors
Authors: Kamphorst Jurre , Cucurull‐Sanchez Lourdes , Jones Barry
Published: August 2006

The human PEPT1 protein is an influx transporter known to influence the ADME profile of several bioactive compounds. A good example is acyclovir, which possesses high safety and selectivity but has a low bioavailability. The L‐valyl ester prodrug of this compound is transported by PEPT1, resulting in a three‐ to four‐fold increase in plasma levels. Therefore, knowledge of the Structure–Activity Relationships (SAR) of PEPT1 ligands can enable us to favourably manipulate the ADME properties of promising leads that suffer from low bioavailability. We applied three classification methods (naïve Bayesian classification, recursive partitioning and linear discriminant analysis) together with the descriptors best suited for each method to a large PEPT1 inhibitor/non‐inhibitor dataset. This dataset was assembled from literature and was divided into three groups: the ‘inhibitor’ group (Ki≤1 mM, 113 compounds), the ‘unknown’ group (Ki>1 mM and <4.48 mM, 21 compounds) and the ‘non‐inhibitor’ group (Ki≥4.48 mM, 69 compounds). The inhibitor and non‐inhibitor groups were used to build the models. The Bayesian classification model together with fingerprint descriptors was found to produce the best results. Of a test set of 46 compounds, it correctly classified 89% (concordance). It correctly classified 96% of the inhibitors and 78% of the non‐inhibitors. Although the model informs us only about structural requirements for inhibition and not necessarily for transportation, the SAR identified by the Bayesian model support previously published results. In addition, the results were obtained in a short‐time span, without the need of three‐dimensional configurations and with more compounds than in previous studies.
Learning in a personal context: Levels of choice in a free choice learning environment in science and natural history museums
Authors: Bamberger Yael , Tal Tali
Published: August 2006

The study aims to characterize contextual learning during class visits to science and natural history museums. Based on previous studies, we assumed that “outdoor” learning is different from classroom‐based learning, and free choice learning in the museums enhances the expression of learning in personal context. We studied about 750 students participating in class visits at four museums, focusing on the levels of choice provided through the activity. The museums were of different sizes, locations, visitor number, and foci. A descriptive‐interpretative approach was adopted, with data sources comprising observations, semistructured interviews with students, and museum worksheets. Analysis of the museum activities has yielded four levels of choice that affect learning from no choice to free choice activities. The effectiveness of learning was examined as well by looking at task behavior, linkage to the students' prior knowledge and their school's science curriculum, and linkage to the students' life and experience. Our findings indicate that activities of limited choice offered scaffolding, allowed the students to control their learning, and enhanced deeper engagement in the learning process. Within all the choice opportunities, the students connected the visit to their own life experiences and to their prior knowledge, even when the guided activity scarcely addressed it. Critical responses were obtained mainly when the museum environment allows a variety of learning opportunities without directing the students. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Sci Ed 91:75–95, 2007
Ultrasound finding of an echogenic mass in women with secondary postpartum hemorrhage is associated with retained placental tissue
Authors: Mulic‐Lutvica A. , Axelsson O.
Published: August 2006

Objectives

To describe sonographic findings associated with retained placental tissue in patients with secondary postpartum hemorrhage, and to compare these findings with those of women with a normal puerperium.

Methods

This was a prospective observational study of 79 women with secondary postpartum hemorrhage. Ultrasound examinations were performed on the day the patients presented with clinical symptoms and were scheduled for postpartum days 1, 3, 7, 14, 28 and 56, continuing until uterine surgical evacuation was performed or until the bleeding stopped. The maximum anteroposterior (AP) diameters of the uterus and uterine cavity were measured and morphological findings in the cavity were recorded. The findings were compared with previously published results from a normal population.

Results

The patients were divided into two groups. Group 1 (n = 18) underwent surgery and Group 2 (n = 61) was treated conservatively. Sonography revealed an echogenic mass in the uterine cavity in 17 patients from Group 1, and in 14 of these patients histology confirmed placental tissue. The AP diameter of the uterine cavity was above the 90th percentile in all but two of the 18 Group 1 patients. In 18 patients from Group 2 the cavity was empty and in 43 a mixed‐echo pattern was found. The uterine cavity was wider compared with the controls, but the values largely overlapped.

Conclusion

This report supports the opinion that the sonographic finding of an echogenic mass in the uterine cavity in women with secondary postpartum hemorrhage is associated with retained placental tissue. Copyright © 2006 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Taurine in the anterior cingulate cortex diminishes neuropathic nociception: A possible interaction with the glycineA receptor
Authors: Pellicer Francisco , López‐Avila Alberto , Coffeen Ulises , Ortega‐Legaspi J. Manuel , Ángel Rosendo
Published: August 2006

Taurine is an inhibitory amino‐acid which has been proposed as a nociceptive process neuromodulator. The glycineA receptor (glyRA) has been postulated as a receptor in which taurine exerts its function. Functional image studies have documented the role of the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) in the affective component of pain. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of taurine as a glycinergic agonist in the ACC using a neuropathic pain model related to autotomy behaviour (AB). In order to test whether glyRA is responsible for taurine actions, we microinjected strychnine, a glyRA antagonist. We used taurine microinjected into the ACC, followed by a thermonociceptive stimulus and a sciatic denervation. Chronic nociception was measured by the autotomy score, onset and incidence. The administration of taurine 7 days after denervation modifies the temporal course of AB by inhibiting it. Our results showed a decreased autotomy score and incidence in the taurine groups, as well as a delay in the onset. Those experimental groups in which strychnine was microinjected into the ACC, either on its own or before the microinjection of taurine, showed no difference as compared to the control group. When taurine was microinjected prior to strychnine, the group behaved as if only taurine had been administered. Our results evidence a significant neuropathic nociception relief measured as an AB decrease by the microinjection of taurine into the ACC. Besides, the role of the glyRA is evidenced by the fact that strychnine antagonises the antinociceptive effect of taurine.
Solitary plasmacytoma of bone in two successfully treated cats
Authors: Mellor Paul J. , Polton Gerry A. , Brearley Malcolm , Haugland Sean , Smith Ken C. , Scase Tim J. , McNeil Pauline E. , Holloway Andrew , Archer Joy , Powell Roger M. , Villiers Elizabeth J. , Herrtage Mike E. , Argyle David J. , Day Michael J.
Published: August 2006

This is the first report of feline solitary plasmacytoma of bone. We describe the clinical, clinico-pathological, radiographic and pathological findings of two successfully treated cats with long-term follow-up. The first case presented with spinal pain and neurological deficits. Radiographs demonstrated sclerosis of lumbar vertebra L6 and a myelogram confirmed interference to flow of contrast in the L4–7 region. A biopsy of L6 revealed neoplastic plasma cell infiltration. There was no evidence of paraproteinaemia on serum protein electrophoresis. The cat underwent hypofractionated megavoltage radiotherapy. Clinical signs resolved completely and 4 years after diagnosis the cat remains well and has no electrophoretically detectable paraproteinaemia. The second case presented with neurological deficits of the tail and spinal radiographs revealed extensive osteolysis of the sacrum. A biopsy of sacral bone demonstrated neoplastic plasma cell infiltration. The animal was normoglobulinaemic. The cat improved clinically with induction chemotherapy (melphalan and methylprednisolone). The same chemotherapeutics were continued at maintenance doses for 4.3 years, at which time there was recurrence of neurological deficits and a palpable sacral mass. Cytological examination of a fine needle aspirate confirmed recurrence of plasma cell neoplasia. A low concentration monoclonal paraproteinaemia was detected. Vincristine was administered resulting in resolution of neurological deficits and a palpably smaller sacral mass. Eighteen months into vincristine therapy, there was recurrence of clinical signs and the cat was euthanased, more than 6 years after the initial diagnosis.
Forecasting collaboration in the European grocery sector: Observations from a case study
Authors: Småros Johanna
Published: August 2006

Modeling‐based research provides strong support for collaborative forecasting as a means of improving supply chain efficiency. Yet, despite positive attitudes towards collaboration and several pilot implementations undertaken in the beginning of the millennium, large‐scale implementations of collaborative forecasting are still scarce.

This article presents the results of an exploratory case study examining four collaboration projects involving four manufacturers and one retailer operating in the European grocery sector. By analyzing the positive and negative experiences of these companies and the results of their collaboration projects, factors that have an impact on the feasibility and value of forecasting collaboration are identified. A main finding is that many collaboration models appear to build on invalid assumptions concerning retailers’ forecasting needs, resources, and processes, as well as manufacturers’ capabilities to benefit from the demand or forecast information made available through collaboration.
Devils Hole, Nevada, δ18O record extended to the mid-Holocene
Authors: Winograd Isaac J. , Landwehr Jurate M. , Coplen Tyler B. , Sharp Warren D. , Riggs Alan C. , Ludwig Kenneth R. , Kolesar Peter T.
Published: August 2006

The mid-to-late Pleistocene Devils Hole δ18O record has been extended from 60,000 to 4500 yr ago. The new δ18O time series, in conjunction with the one previously published, is shown to be a proxy of Pacific Ocean sea surface temperature (SST) off the coast of California. During marine oxygen isotope stages (MIS) 2 and 6, the Devil Hole and SST time series exhibit a steady warming that began 5000 to > 10,000 yr prior to the last and penultimate deglaciations. Several possible proximate causes for this early warming are evaluated. The magnitude of the peak δ18O or SST during the last interglacial (LIG) is significantly greater (1 per mill and 2 to 3°C, respectively) than the peak value of these parameters for the Holocene; in contrast, benthic δ18O records of ice volume show only a few tenths per mill difference in the peak value for these interglacials. Statistical analysis provides an estimate of the large shared information (variation) between the Devils Hole and Eastern Pacific SST time series from ∼ 41 to ∼ 2°N and enforces the concept of a common forcing among all of these records. The extended Devils Hole record adds to evidence of the importance of uplands bordering the eastern Pacific as a source of archives for reconstructing Pacific climate variability.
Liberia 2005: an unusual African post-conflict election
Authors: Harris David
Published: August 2006

The 2003 Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) and the ensuing two-year-long National Transitional Government of Liberia (NTGL), which brought together two rebel forces, the former government and members of civil society, justifiably had many critics but also one positive and possibly redeeming feature. In spite of, or perhaps because of, the realpolitik nature of the CPA and the barely disguised gross corruption of the members of the coalition government, the protagonists in the second Liberian civil war (2000–03) complied with the agreement and the peace process held. The culmination of this sequence of events was the 11 October 2005 national elections, the 8 November presidential run-off and the 16 January 2006 inauguration. In several ways, this was the African post-conflict election that broke the mould, but not just in that a woman, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, won the presidential race, and a football star, George Weah, came second. The virtual absence of transformed rebel forces or an overbearing incumbent in the electoral races, partially as a result of the CPA and NTGL, gave these polls extraordinary features in an African setting.
US–Guinea relations during the rise and fall of Charles Taylor
Authors: Smith Dane F.
Published: August 2006

The Liberian civil war was the major issue in US–Guinea relations between 1990 and 2003. During the first half of this period, the US sought with limited success to secure Guinea's cooperation in finding a diplomatic solution. President Conté viewed Charles Taylor as Guinea's implacable enemy and authorised arms support for anti-Taylor factions, while the US pressed for a negotiated peace. The Guinean leader's negative reaction to US criticism of the flawed 1993 presidential elections halted most dialogue on Liberia for the next two years. When Taylor continued supporting civil war in Sierra Leone after 1997, and fighters allied to him assaulted Guinea border posts in 1999, the US strengthened its engagement with Guinea. Providing military training and non-lethal equipment, it sought to counter the threat that Guinea would succumb to the destabilisation which had afflicted Liberia and Sierra Leone. The US appears positioned to play a positive role in Guinea's political and economic transition after the departure from the scene of the seriously ill Guinean president.
China's engagement in Africa: scope, significance and consequences
Authors: Tull Denis M.
Published: August 2006

China's vastly increased involvement in Africa over the past decade is one of the most significant recent developments in the region. It appears to contradict the idea of international marginalisation of Africa and brings significant economic and political consequences. China's Africa interest is part of a recently more active international strategy based on multipolarity and non-intervention. Increased aid, debt cancellation, and a boom in Chinese-African trade, with a strategic Chinese focus on oil, have proven mutually advantageous for China and African state elites. By offering aid without preconditions, China has presented an attractive alternative to conditional Western aid, and gained valuable diplomatic support to defend its international interests. However, a generally asymmetrical relationship differing little from previous African–Western patterns, alongside support of authoritarian governments at the expense of human rights, make the economic consequences of increased Chinese involvement in Africa mixed at best, while the political consequences are bound to prove deleterious.
Interview with Philippe Kirsch, President of the International Criminal Court
Authors: Pfanner Toni
Published: August 2006

Judge Philippe Kirsch (Canada) is president of the International Criminal Court in The Hague and is assigned to its Appeals Division. He is a member of the bar of the province of Quebec and was appointed Queen's Counsel in 1988. In 1998, Judge Kirsch served as chairman of the Committee of the Whole of the United Nations Diplomatic Conference of Plenipotentiaries on the Establishment of an International Criminal Court (the Rome Conference). He was also chairman of the Preparatory Commission for the International Criminal Court (1999–2002). Judge Kirsch has extensive experience in the development of international criminal law, with particular regard to issues related to terrorism. His experience in international humanitarian law includes serving as chairman of the Drafting Committee of the International Conference on the Protection of War Victims (1993), the Drafting Committee at the 26th and 27th International Conferences of the Red Cross and Red Crescent (1995, 1999) and related meetings. He also chaired the Canadian National Committee on Humanitarian Law (1998–9) and was a member of the Group of International Advisers to the International Committee of the Red Cross (2000–3).
An overview of the international criminal jurisdictions operating in Africa
Authors: Williamson Jamie A.
Published: August 2006

Whilst the African continent has been beset with many of the modern- day conflicts, and with them violations of international humanitarian law, through the work of the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda, the Special Court for Sierra Leone and the International Criminal Court, African states have demonstrated their intent to hold accountable the perpetrators of the gravest international crimes. By the end of 2005, the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda celebrated its eleventh year, the Special Court for Sierra Leone will have completed its fourth year and the International Criminal Court will be more than three and a half years old. As the present review of their activities shows, the delivery of justice through international jurisdictions is a complex and often time-consuming process.
Ess-Störungen und Diabetes mellitus
Authors: Herpertz  , Petrak  , Kruse  , Kulzer  , Lange  , Albus
Published: August 2006

Adoleszente und junge Frauen mit Typ 1-Diabetes mellitus zeigen eine überzufällige Koinzidenz mit der Bulimia nervosa. Aber auch die Prävalenz von Ess-Störungen, die nicht alle Kriterien der Bulimia nervosa erfüllen, ist im Vergleich zu Frauen dieser Altersgruppe ohne Diabetes mellitus erhöht. Die Komorbidität von Typ 1-Diabetes und einer Ess-Störung stellt einen Risikofaktor für die Entwicklung späterer diabetischer Folgeerkrankungen dar. So zeichnen sich essgestörte PatientInnen mit Typ 1-Diabetes durch eine unzureichende Stoffwechselkontrolle und die frühzeitigere Entwicklung von diabetischen Spätschäden wie der Retinopathie aus. Die Binge Eating-Störung, eine zunächst unter Forschungsgesichtspunkten definierte neue Ess-Störungsentität ist insbesondere bei Übergewicht und Adipositas zu beobachten. Auch wenn die Binge Eating-Störung bei Menschen mit Typ 2-Diabetes im Vergleich zu stoffwechselgesunden Menschen nicht häufiger auftritt, stellt sie doch einen Risikofaktor für eine akzellerierte Gewichtszunahme dar, welche in der Regel mit einer Zunahme der Insulinresistenz einhergeht.
Achalasie
Authors: Allescher
Published: August 2006

Die Achalasie ist eine eher seltene Erkrankung der distalen Speiseröhre mit reduzierter oder fehlender schluckinduzierter Erschlaffung des unteren Ösophagussphinkters. Die Erkrankung beginnt oft schleichend und die Diagnosestellung kann oft über Jahre verzögert werden. Durch die kombinierte Anwendung von ÖGD und Röntgen-Breischluckuntersuchung kann meist die Diagnose schon frühzeitig gestellt und mittels Manometrie nachgewiesen werden. Andere, insbesondere maligne Differentialdiagnosen sind zu bedenken. Die pneumatische Dilatation ist die Behandlungsmethode der ersten Wahl. Beim jüngeren Patienten sollte jedoch beim Versagen dieser Therapie frühzeitig die laparoskopische Myotomie mit gleichzeitiger Antirefluxtherapie eingesetzt werden. Medikamentöse Therapie oder intramuskuläre Injektion von Botulinumtoxin sind nur in Ausnahmefällen indiziert und sinnvoll.
Diagnostik der Refluxkrankheit und der Dyspepsie
Authors: Koop
Published: August 2006

Wegweisend in der Diagnostik von Sodbrennen und Dyspepsie ist eine subtile Anamnese, die neben der Eingrenzung der Differentialdiagnose auch Alarmsymptome aufdecken muss, die zu einer intensiveren Diagnostik zwingen. Die zahlenmässig häufigsten Erkrankungen sind dabei Refluxkrankheit, funktionelle Dyspepsie und Ulzera (letztere vor allem durch ulzerogene Substanzen und zunehmend weniger durch Helicobacter pylori). Das wichtigste bildgebende Verfahren stellt die Endoskopie dar, jedoch dominiert hier inzwischen die Refluxösophagitis, während Ulzera weit zurücktreten und Malignome im Alter unter 50 Jahren eine Seltenheit darstellen; daher kann in jüngeren Altersstufen alternativ auch eine empirische Therapie durchgeführt werden. Eine Sonographie erscheint vorzugsweise bei Verdacht auf biliäre Beschwerden, jedoch nicht generell empfehlenswert. Ausser orientierenden Laborwerten spielen weitere diagnostische Verfahren zunächst keine wesentliche Rolle.
GERD: Interventionelle Therapie
Authors: Caca
Published: August 2006

In den letzten Jahren wurden verschiedene Techniken zur minimal-invasiven endoskopischen Antirefluxtherapie entwickelt. Neben endoskopischen Nahttechniken waren dies Injektions-/Implantationsverfahren von Biopolymeren und die Radiofrequenztherapie. Die Radiofrequenztherapie (StrettaTM) hat wegen unzureichender Effektivität keinen festen Stellenwert gefunden, die Implantationsverfahren wurden wegen mangelnder Haltbarkeit (GatekeeperTM) oder schweren Nebenwirkungen (EnteryxTM) wieder verlassen. Während es endoluminalen Nahtverfahren der 1. Generation (EndoCinchTM, ESDTM) aufgrund unzureichender Haltbarkeit der Nähte an Langzeiteffektivität mangelte, weist eine prospektiv-randomisierte Studie mit dem transmuralen Nahtsystem PlicatorTM signifikante Erfolge hinsichtlich Beschwerden, Medikamentenverbrauch als auch pH-Metriedaten im Vergleich zur «Placebo»-Gruppe nach. Technische Weiterentwicklungen und Langzeitdaten sind auf diesem Gebiet weiter zu erwarten.
GERD: Chirurgische Therapie
Authors: Obermaier  , Hopt
Published: August 2006

Protonenpumpeninhibitoren (PPI) stellen den Goldstandard für die Behandlung der gastro-ösophagealen Refluxerkrankung (GERD) dar. Trotzdem gibt es auch klare Indikationen für eine chirurgische Antirefluxtherapie. Im Prinzip muss bei allen Patienten, die mit einer längerdauernden PPI-Therapie aus objektiven oder subjektiven Gründen nicht zurecht kommen, die Operation als exzellente therapeutische Alternative diskutiert werden. Voraussetzung für eine solche Operation ist der objektive Nachweis einer Refluxerkrankung (Endoskopie, 24-h-pH-Metrie). Die laparoskopische partielle oder totale Fundoplikatio hat die offenen Operationstechniken praktisch völlig ersetzt. Die Beseitigung der Hiatushernie und die Hiatoplastik sind integraler Bestandteil der Operation. Die perioperative Komplikationsrate ist gering, die Langzeitergebnisse sind gut. Entscheidend ist diesbezüglich eine korrekte Patientenselektion und Indikationsstellung.
Sensitivity of ocean carbon tracer distributions to particulate organic flux parameterizations
Authors: Howard M. T. , Winguth A. M. E. , Klaas C. , Maier‐Reimer E.
Published: August 2006

Vertical fluxes of particulate organic carbon (POC) from the euphotic zone to the deep sea are an important part of the carbon cycle in the oceans. In this study, oceanic fluxes of POC below the euphotic zone were simulated with the Hamburg ocean carbon cycle model (HAMOCC5.1) by using different POC‐flux parameterizations and compared with sediment trap data. Overall, the geochemical distributions in the deep sea showed a high sensitivity to the selection of POC flux parameterization. Below 2000 m in the oceans, differences between simulated and observed carbon tracers (PO4, Alk*) and model‐data differences of POC fluxes are lowest when a regionally variable POC flux parameterization is used. Specifically, model‐data differences are lowest in the subtropics when simulated vertical POC flux considers mineral ballasting, while they are lowest in the Arabian Sea and west coast of Africa when a mineral dust parameterization is used for the vertical POC flux.
Enhanced carbonate and silicate weathering accelerates recovery from fossil fuel CO2 perturbations
Authors: Lenton Timothy M. , Britton Clare
Published: August 2006

Increasing atmospheric CO2 and surface temperatures should increase carbonate and silicate weathering rates, directly via warming, and indirectly via the CO2 fertilization effect enhancing plant productivity. Enhanced weathering should in turn increase alkalinity input to the ocean and accelerate long‐term CO2 uptake. We added silicate and carbonate weathering and carbonate sediments to an existing global carbon cycle and surface temperature model and subjected it to a range of long‐term fossil fuel emissions scenarios, spanning 1100–15,000 GtC in total. Emissions of ≥7350 GtC dissolve all carbonate sediments, and enhanced carbonate and silicate weathering accelerate subsequent CO2 removal from the atmosphere by up to a factor of 4. For 1100–4000 GtC emissions, enhanced weathering accelerates CO2 removal by a factor of 1.5–2.5. However, it takes >1 Myr for silicate weathering to stabilize atmospheric CO2. If land use tends to suppress vegetation and weathering rates on this timescale, then CO2 will stabilize above preindustrial levels.
Instantaneous cloud overlap statistics in the tropical area revealed by ICESat/GLAS data
Authors: Wang Likun , Dessler Andrew E.
Published: August 2006

This study uses ICESat/GLAS instantaneous observations from 29 September to 18 November 2003 to investigate cloud overlap statistics between 10°S–20°N. The results show that 75.1% of profiles detect clouds: 46.5% are single layer and 28.6% multilayer clouds (cloud layers are separated by 0.5km). Using a definition of cloud type based on cloud heights and laser attenuation information, cloud overlap statistics are derived by analyzing 96.4% of the cloudy profiles. The most frequent overlap occurs between cirrus clouds and boundary layer clouds, which accounts for 31.88% of boundary clouds. 23.8% of deep convection has overlying cirrus clouds. We find that differences exist between the cloud overlap fraction from the GLAS observations and one calculated from the random overlap assumption commonly used by climate models.
Large‐amplitude electrostatic waves associated with magnetic ramp substructure at Earth's bow shock
Authors: Hull A. J. , Larson D. E. , Wilber M. , Scudder J. D. , Mozer F. S. , Russell C. T. , Bale S. D.
Published: August 2006

We present Polar observations of high frequency (100 Hz ≲ f ≲ 4000 Hz) electrostatic (ES) waves at Earth's bow shock under extreme solar wind conditions. Although solitary waves are observed, the most prevalent structures in the magnetic ramp are coherent, large‐amplitude (up to 80 mV/m) ES wave packets, which last 10–30 cycles, and propagate at varied obliquities relative to the magnetic field. The ES wave power is well correlated with maxima in the magnetic ramp substructure, suggesting that these maxima are important source regions. Detailed interferometric based analysis of waveforms show that they have wavelengths of a few hundred meters (e.g., ∼20λD ∼ 0.5ρe) and phase speeds at the acoustic speed, suggesting that they are ion acoustic waves (IAW)s. The IAWs, having potentials ≲1 V with no net change, are not likely to affect bulk plasma energization, though they may scatter the plasma and thus affect plasma thermalization.
An unusual nightside distortion of the auroral oval: TIMED/GUVI and IMAGE/FUV observations
Authors: Zhang Y. , Paxton L. J. , Lui A. T. Y.
Published: August 2006

A new and unusual nightside auroral distortion was detected around 1400 UT on 11 December 2004 by TIMED/GUVI (northern hemisphere) and IMAGE/FUV (southern hemisphere). The distortion has a special “tongue” shape (possibly a special auroral streamer) and is called the Nightside Auroral Tongue (NAT) hereafter. We found that the NAT is a conjugate phenomenon. The NAT consists of both diffuse aurora and nearly north‐south arcs. The NAT extended from ∼72° Mlat to 62° Mlat in the 0100 MLT sector, well beyond the proton isotropic boundary (b2i) around 66° Mlat. The width of the NAT varies from 2 hour in MLT at magnetic latitude around 70° to 0.5 hour in MLT at Mlat < 65°. The width of the arcs within the NAT is only about 30 km on average. The observed unusual feature of NAT is associated with a strong IP shock and a large solar wind electric field.
Galactic cosmic ray flux decline and periodicities in the interplanetary space during the last 3 centuries revealed by 44Ti in meteorites
Authors: Taricco C. , Bhandari N. , Cane D. , Colombetti P. , Verma N.
Published: August 2006

44Ti and 26Al activities and heavy nuclei tracks produced by cosmic rays have been measured in 19 stone meteorites that fell during the period 1766 to 2001. The gamma activity measurements of cosmogenic isotopes were performed using a highly specific and selective large volume Ge‐NaI (Tl) spectrometer. The 44Ti activity, corrected for the target element abundances and shielding effects, shows a decrease of about 43% over the past 235 years. Superimposed on this declining trend, the 44Ti activity shows a centennial oscillation. The variations in 44Ti activity are related to changes in cosmic ray intensity caused by heliospheric magnetic field modulation in the interplanetary space between heliocentric distances of 1 and 3 AU. Using the relations between solar open magnetic flux, modulation parameter, and galactic cosmic ray flux, we have calculated the variation in production rates of 44Ti in meteorites back to about 1700 AD. We show that the measured 44Ti activity in meteorites over the past 235 years and the calculated production rates are in agreement. Our results are consistent in phase and magnitude with doubling of the solar open magnetic field intensity over the past century. The data also imply that the centennial scale oscillation deduced by 44Ti is in phase with Gleissberg solar cycle, but its amplitude is larger than expected from the calculated cosmic ray flux.
Is the aerosol emission detectable in the thermal infrared?
Authors: Hollweg H.‐D. , Bakan S. , Taylor J. P.
Published: August 2006

The impact of aerosols on the thermal infrared radiation can be assessed by combining observations and radiative transfer calculations. Both have uncertainties, which are discussed in this paper. Observational uncertainties are obtained for two FTIR instruments operated side by side on the ground during the LACE 1998 field campaign. Radiative transfer uncertainties are assessed using a line‐by‐line model taking into account the uncertainties of the HITRAN 2004 spectroscopic database, uncertainties in the determination of the atmospheric profiles of water vapor and ozone, and differences in the treatment of the water vapor continuum absorption by the CKD 2.4.1 and MT_CKD 1.0 algorithms. The software package OPAC was used to describe the optical properties of aerosols for climate modeling. The corresponding radiative signature is a guideline to the assessment of the uncertainty ranges of observations and models. We found that the detection of aerosols depends strongly on the measurement accuracy of atmospheric profiles of water vapor and ozone and is easier for drier conditions. Within the atmospheric window, only the forcing of downward radiation at the surface by desert aerosol emerges clearly from the uncertainties of modeling and FTIR measurement. Urban and polluted continental aerosols are only partially detectable depending on the wave number and on the atmospheric water vapor amount. Simulations for the space‐borne interferometer IASI show that only upward radiation above transported mineral dust aloft emerges out of the uncertainties. The detection of aerosols with weak radiative impact by FTIR instruments like ARIES and OASIS is made difficult by noise as demonstrated by the signal to noise ratio for clean continental aerosols. Altogether, the uncertainties found suggest that it is difficult to detect the optical depths of nonmineral and unpolluted aerosols.
Modeling CO2 source‐sink and flux over broadleaved Koreanpine forest in Changbai Mountain using inverse Lagrangian dispersion analysis
Authors: Diao Yiwei , Wang Anzhi , Guan Dexin , Jin Changjie , Pei Tiefan
Published: August 2006

Vertical source/sink strengths distributions and net flux of carbon dioxide (CO2) within and above a broadleaved Koreanpine forest canopy were modeled by inverse Lagrangian dispersion analysis method using only mean concentration profiles measured in Changbai mountain research station of China. The model results compared well with eddy covariance CO2 flux measurements above the canopy, and the average correlation coefficient is 0.89; however, the model overestimated nocturnal CO2 flux about two to three times larger than those measured results. The time‐depth evolutions of CO2 source/sink strength and the relationship between CO2 flux and photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) were also discussed.
Precipitable water and the lognormal distribution
Authors: Foster James , Bevis Michael , Raymond William
Published: August 2006

Histograms of precipitable water from radiosondes and zenith neutral delay estimated by GPS are found at many locations to follow a lognormal distribution. This observation is consistent with a theoretical expression for precipitable water based on moisture flux. Two unimodal cases are identified: the traditional lognormal distribution is commonly found in subtropical and temperate climates while tropical oceanic environments tend to exhibit a reversed lognormal form. Bimodal cases, formed by combinations of either or both of these unimodal distributions, are found where seasonal (e.g., monsoons) or climatic (e.g., El Niño) variations generate distinct precipitable water modes with rapid transitions between them. This connection with the lognormal distribution suggests a basis for the parameterization both of precipitable water in climate models as well as of the delay due to water vapor in atmospheric models used for space geodesy.
Tether‐induced airglow: Collisionless effects
Authors: Mishin E. V. , Khazanov G. V.
Published: August 2006

A specially‐designed sounding rocket experiment with a bare, conducting tether was recently suggested to test an idea that tether‐produced energetic‐electron beams can be used for remote sensing the neutral density in the E region. This letter contains the theoretical analysis of collisionless beam‐plasma interactions (BPI) that complement direct impact of the energetic electrons with neutral particles. Collisionless effects are shown to play a significant and even major role in tether‐induced aurora (TA). In the F region, BPI lead to appreciable green‐line (557.7 nm) emissions at ∼200 km. Farther downward, BPI develop inside a local minimum in the plasma density between the E and F regions, the so‐called valley. Here a thin layer of a strongly‐elevated electron temperature and airglow is predicted. Neutralizing electric currents carried by ionospheric electrons can become unstable in the low‐density valley. As a result, developing plasma waves inhibit the currents. In the extreme case, the beam might be locked (a ‘virtual cathode’). In addition to optical observations, these effects can also be observed by radio frequency methods.