bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lower and middle atmosphere and ozone layer responses to solar variation
Authors: Elias Ana G.
Published: February 2010

Global warming in the troposphere and the decrease of stratospheric ozone concentration has become a major concern to the scientific community. The increase in greenhouse gases and aerosols concentration is believed to be the main cause of this global change in the lower atmosphere and in stratospheric ozone, which is corresponded by a cooling in the middle and upper atmosphere. However, there are natural sources, such as the sun and volcanic eruptions, with the same ability to produce global changes in the atmosphere. The present work will focus on solar variation and its signature in lower and middle atmosphere parameters. The Sun can influence the Earth and its climate through electromagnetic radiation variations and also through changes in the solar wind which causes geomagnetic storms. The effects of both mechanisms over the lower and middle atmosphere and ozone layer will be discussed through an overview of selected papers, which by no means cover this subject that is extremely wide and complex. A fundamental understanding of the atmosphere response to solar variations is required for understanding and interpreting the causes of atmospheric variability. This is an essential focus of climate science, which is seeking to determine the extent to which human activities are altering the planetary energy balance through the emission of greenhouse gases and pollutants.
Possible traces of solar activity effect on the surface air temperature of mid-latitudes
Authors: Kilcik Ali , Özgüç Atila , Rozelot Jean-Pierre
Published: February 2010

In this study we investigate the effects of solar activity on the surface air temperature of mid-latitudes. This enables us to understand existence of solar activity effects on the temperature. We used surface air temperature and pressure data as climate parameters, and solar flare index data as solar activity indicator, for the 25 - 50 degree longitude and 30 - 70 degree latitude zone, including Turkey and European part of Russia. We considered the parameters temperature, pressure and flare index data for the period ranging from January 1975 to the end of December 2007, which covers almost three solar cycles, namely 21st, 22nd, and 23rd. We found some significant correlations between solar activity and surface air temperature for cycles 22 and 23 for some zones. We applied multitaper method to obtain the cyclic behavior of surface air temperature data sets. The most pronounced power peaks were found by this transform around 1.2 and 2.5 years which were reported earlier for some solar activity indicators. We concluded that signature of solar activity effect exists on surface air temperature of mid-latitudes where we studied.
Influence of the solar radiation on Earth's climate using the LMDz-REPROBUS model
Authors: Lefebvre Sandrine , Marchand Marion , Bekki Slimane , Keckhut Philippe , Lefèvre Franck , Claud Chantal , Cugnet David , Thuillier Gérard , Hauchecorne Alain
Published: February 2010

The atmospheric response to the 11-year solar cycle is studied using the fully interactive 3-D coupled chemistry-general circulation model LMDz-REPROBUS with a complete seasonal cycle. We will show results concerning a comparison between two series of 20-year runs, one in maximum of activity and the other in minimum. The stratosphere-troposphere system shows partly significant response to a solar cycle enhancement of UV radiation. We show how the changes in stratospheric ozone, temperature and zonal wind are connected.
Solar cycle changes of large-scale solar wind structure
Authors: Manoharan P. K.
Published: February 2010

In this paper, I present the results on large-scale evolution of density turbulence of solar wind in the inner heliosphere during 1985–2009. At a given distance from the Sun, the density turbulence is maximum around the maximum phase of the solar cycle and it reduces to ~70%, near the minimum phase. However, in the current minimum of solar activity, the level of turbulence has gradually decreased, starting from the year 2005, to the present level of ~30%. These results suggest that the source of solar wind changes globally, with the important implication that the supply of mass and energy from the Sun to the interplanetary space has significantly reduced in the present low level of activity.
Observation of non-Gaussianity and phase synchronization in intermittent magnetic field turbulence in the solar-terrestrial environment
Authors: Miranda Rodrigo A. , Chian Abraham C.-L. , Dasso Sergio , Echer Ezequiel , Muñoz Pablo R. , Trivedi Nalin B. , Tsurutani Bruce T. , Yamada Michio
Published: February 2010

We apply two nonlinear techniques, kurtosis and phase coherence index, to analyze magnetic field measurements from SOHO MDI solar images, ACE and Cluster data in the solar wind, and ground magnetometers in Brazil. We focus on two events: a non-ICME event in February 2002 and an ICME event in January 2005. Finite degree of non-Gaussianity and phase synchronization are observed in all datasets. The nonlinear response of the Earth's geomagnetic field to an ICME event in the solar wind is discussed.
Observation of magnetic reconnection and current sheets in the solar wind
Authors: Muñoz Pablo R. , Chian Abraham C.-L. , Miranda Rodrigo A. , Yamada Michio
Published: February 2010

We apply single- and multi-spacecraft techniques to search for currents sheets in the solar wind during the ICME event of 21 January 2005, using the Cluster magnetic field data. Two large-scale currents sheets are detected at the leading boundary of the ICME ejecta using the single-spacecraft technique, which exhibit physical characteristics typical of magnetic reconnection exhausts in the solar wind.
Magnetic activity, high-energy radiation and variability: from young solar analogs to low-mass objects
Authors: Güdel Manuel
Published: February 2010

Magnetic activity on cool stars expresses itself in a bewildering variety of radiative and particle output originating from magnetic regions between the photosphere and the corona. Given its origin in evolving magnetic fields, most of this output is variable in time. Radiation in the ultraviolet, the extreme ultraviolet, and the X-ray ranges are important for heating and ionizing upper planetary atmospheres and thus driving atmospheric evaporation. Additionally, stellar winds interact with the upper atmospheres and may lead to further erosion. The stellar high-energy output is therefore a prime factor in determining habitability of planets. We summarize our knowledge of magnetic activity in young solar analogs and lower-mass stars and show how the stellar output changes on evolutionary timescales.
Impact of the solar magnetic cycle on a protoplanetary disk
Authors: Tlatov Andrey G.
Published: February 2010

We consider the influence of the periodic magnetic field of the Sun on the protoplanetary disk. Solar magnetic cycle may create a special orbit, which were formed main planets of the solar system. In orbits on which magnetic field accumulation occurs most effectively, there is a substance replacement. The Keplerian orbit with the period close to the period of solar magnetic cycle T ~ TM is most unstable for material accumulation. Two most close orbits where there is an accumulation of substance have periods T = 1/2TM and T=5/4TM. These orbits on are close to orbits of Jupiter and Saturn. Other planets were probably formed under influence of gravitation of Jupiter, Saturn and solar magnetic cycle. Perhaps, the effect of periodic magnetic field can explain the Titius-Bode rule.
Solar-terrestrial energy transfer during sunspot cycles and mechanism of Earth rotation excitation
Authors: Chapanov Yavor , Gambis Daniel
Published: February 2010

The solar-terrestrial energy transfer, due to the total solar irradiance (TSI), solar wind and interplanetary magnetic field, has 11-year modulation during the sunspot cycles. Other oscillations of solar-terrestrial energy transfer are with periods of 22 and 45 year due to the magnetic reversal and equatorial solar asymmetry, which cause corresponding oscillations of all Earth systems, including climate and weather, atmosphere and ocean circulations, geomagnetic field and core processes. A part of this energy variation is transformed to oscillations of the Earth rotation. A model of indirect mechanism of Earth rotation excitation during sunspot cycles is proposed, which is based on global water circulation and periodical mass transfer between oceans and polar ice caps. The oscillations of the mean sea level (MSL) with periods 11, 22 and 45 years are determined by sea level data for the last two centuries from 13 maregraph stations. The necessary energy of water evaporation, corresponding to the observed MSL variations is provided by TSI oscillations with amplitudes between 0.2-0.5W/m2, determined by means of reconstructed time series of the TSI since 1610. The determined mean Universal Time (UT1) amplitudes, corresponding to the 22-year and 45-year cycles of the solar activity are 185ms and 310ms.
Common 22-year cycles of Earth rotation and solar activity
Authors: Chapanov Yavor , Vondrák Jan , Ron Cyril
Published: February 2010

The 22-year oscillations of the Earth rotation due to several geophysical processes in the core-mantle system, oceans, atmosphere and geomagnetic field are excited mainly by 22-year cycles of the solar activity. These geophysical processes produce their own oscillations of the Earth rotation with different periods around 22 years. The direct and indirect influence of the solar activity on 22-year cycles of the Earth rotation are separated from the core effects and corresponding amplitudes are estimated by means of two approaches. The first, direct approach uses extended time series of Wolf's numbers with 22-year cycles, determined by sign alternation of even sunspot cycles. A linear regression between 22-year cycles of UT1 and solar activity is determined and this regression model is used to calculate the UT1 response to the 22-year cycles of the solar activity. The second, indirect approach uses 22-year oscillation of the mean sea level, caused by water evaporation due to variations of the total solar irradiance. The influence of the mean sea level variations on the Earth rotation is calculated by means of an empirical model of global water redistribution. The core-mantle effects on the 22-year UT1 variations are determined by excluding the UT1 response to the solar activity and core angular momentum due to the geomagnetic field variations, according to the solutions from the Special Bureau of the Core (SBC).
Polarimetic search for exoplanets with a tangential transit
Authors: Ksanfomality L. V.
Published: February 2010

This paper is devoted to the data obtained in measurements of the linear light polarization of few stars (that are definitely known to possess planets) and the results of the measurements processing. One may surmise with caution that the suggested method yields positive results and, if confirmed, can be of use both in searching for exoplanets in transiting or tangentially transiting orbits and in refining their masses.
Influence of the Schwabe/Hale solar cycles on climate change during the Maunder Minimum
Authors: Miyahara Hiroko , Yokoyama Yusuke , Yamaguchi Yasuhiko T.
Published: February 2010

We have examined the variation of carbon-14 content in annual tree rings, and investigated the transitions of the characteristics of the Schwabe/Hale (11-year/22-year) solar and cosmic-ray cycles during the last 1200 years, focusing mainly on the Maunder and Spoerer minima and the early Medieval Maximum Period. It has been revealed that the mean length of the Schwabe/Hale cycles changes associated with the centennial-scale variation of solar activity level. The mean length of Schwabe cycle had been ~14 years during the Maunder Minimum, while it was ~9 years during the early Medieval Maximum Period. We have also found that climate proxy record shows cyclic variations similar to stretching/shortening Schwabe/Hale solar cycles in time, suggesting that both Schwabe and Hale solar cycles are playing important role in climate change. In this paper, we review the nature of Schwabe and Hale cycles of solar activity and cosmic-ray flux during the Maunder Minimum and their possible influence on climate change. We suggest that the Hale cycle of cosmic rays are amplified during the grand solar minima and thus the influence of cosmic rays on climate change is prominently recognizable during such periods.
STRESS – STEREO TRansiting Exoplanet and Stellar Survey
Authors: Sangaralingam Vinothini , Stevens Ian R. , Spreckley Steve , Debosscher Jonas
Published: February 2010

The Heliospheric Imager (HI) instruments on board the two STEREO (Solar TErrestrial RElations Observatory) spacecraft provides an excellent opportunity for space based stellar photometry. The HI instruments provide a wide area coverage (20° × 20° for the two HI-1 instruments and 70° × 70° for the two HI-2 instruments) and long continuous periods of observations (20 days and 70 days respectively). Using HI-1A which has a pass band of 6500Å to 7500Å and a cadence of 40 minutes, we have gathered photometric information for more than a million stars brighter than 12th magnitude for a period of two years. Here we present some early results from this study on a range of variable stars and the future prospects for the data.
The influence of starspots activity on the determination of planetary transit parameters
Authors: Silva-Válio Adriana
Published: February 2010

As a planet eclipses its parent star, dark spots on the surface of the star may be occulted, causing a detectable variation in the transit light curve. There are basically two effects caused by the presence of spots on the surface of the star which can alter the shape of the light curve during transits and thus preclude the correct determination of the planet physical and orbital parameters. The first one is that the presence of many spots within the latitude band occulted by the planet will cause the depth of the transit in the light curve to be shallower. This will erroneously result in a smaller radius for the planet. The other effect is that generated by spots located close to the limb of the star. In this case, the spots will interfere in the light curve during the times of ingress or egress of the planet, causing a decrease in the transit duration. This in turn will provide a larger value for the semi-major axis of the planetary orbit. Qualitative estimates of both effects are discussed and an example provided for a very active star, such as CoRoTo-2.
Evidence for climate variations induced by the 11-year solar and cosmic rays cycles
Authors: Bruckman William , Ramos Elio
Published: February 2010

We analyzed data from PSMSL monthly mean sea level seeking correlations between sea level fluctuations and the solar and cosmic rays 11 year cycle. The data reveals decadal variability that could be causally connected to the solar and cosmic rays cycle, since these periodic changes are correlated. It is also found that the solar (cosmic rays) cycle correlates (anti-correlates) with the mean global surface temperature anomaly. A probable explanation of the above correlations is that the solar intensity and cosmic rays variations induce oscillations in the average temperature and precipitation, with corresponding changes in the continental water and snow accumulation. Thus, for instance, a higher than average snow and water over land, and lower temperatures produce oceans thermal contraction and lower mass, implicating lower mean sea level.
Manifestation of the Jupiter's synodic period in the solar wind, interplanetary magnetic field and geophysical parameters
Authors: Samsonov S. N. , Skryabin N. G.
Published: February 2010

Studying by the authors of paper of solar wind parameters, namely: density, speed and temperature and also a module of interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) intensity has allowed to find out in them fluctuations with the period of 399 days. From references it is known that this period coincidence with the synodic period of Jupiter. So long as close by the given period another source of such fluctuations is not known we have assumed that fluctuations with the period of 399 days are fluctuations with the synodic period of Jupiter. The change of the solar wind plasma parameters and IMF intensity can lead to the change of the Earth's magnetic field parameters and, as a consequence, to the change of charged particle fluxes in the Earth's magnetosphere. On this assumption the IMF intensity in the Earth's vicinity, geomagnetic disturbance (Kp-index) and riometer absorption for the years of 1986-1996 have been analyzed. The analysis of the data has shown the presence of certain changes of these physical parameters with the period of 399 days. When the Earth and Jupiter were found to be on the same magnetic field line, the IMF intensity was decreasing up to 3.0±0.57, the geomagnetic activity and riometer absorption were decreasing up to 5.2±1.46% and 9.4±2.63%, respectively.
Space solar missions
Authors: Vial Jean-Claude
Published: February 2010

In the frame of Symposium 264 which concerns Solar and Stellar Variability we address the space solar missions devoted to the various aspects of solar activity. We describe them in three time categories: missions ready for launch, missions which will operate in the 2012-2015 time frame and ambitious missions to be launched after 2015. We focus on the contributions of these missions according to the following criteria: Understanding mechanisms of activity, Improving detection and characterisation, Working out some prediction. Major activity contributors and manifestations are addressed: Coronal Mass Ejections, Flares, Solar winds, Magnetism (including dynamo), Irradiance.
First thoughts on stellar variability from Kepler commissioning data
Authors: Walkowicz Lucianne M. , Basri Gibor
Published: February 2010

The Kepler mission will obtain high precision, continuous lightcurves for more than ~150,000 stars over the next four years. Prior to primary mission operations, ten days of commissioning data were obtained for the ~52,000 brightest targets in the Kepler field. While Kepler's main goal is the discovery of transiting low mass planets, it will also provide a rich dataset for studies of variable stars. These commissioning data give a first glimpse of the amazing diversity of stellar variability Kepler will observe. Here, we discuss the tools we are currently developing to quantify variability in the Kepler data, and show initial results on the distribution of target stars in these metrics. Ultimately these measures will be used both to characterize the data and to select active rotationally modulated stars for rotation period determination.
X-exoplanets: an X-ray and EUV database for exoplanets
Authors: Sanz-Forcada J. , García-Álvarez D. , Velasco A. , Solano E. , Ribas I. , Micela G. , Pollock A.
Published: February 2010

Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) and X-ray emission is of great importance in several phenomena related to the formation of planetary systems and the atmospheres of planets. The atmospheric composition, and the mass of an exoplanet, are partly dependent on the X-ray and EUV radiation received during the first stages of formation and even during main sequence of the star. Biological life developing on exoplanets would depend severely on the high energy radiation arriving from its parent star.

Here we present a database of the X-ray and EUV emission of all the stars currently known to host exoplanets. The archive is public and accessible through the Spanish Virtual Observatory (SVO). The database gives the user the option to download observed X-rays and EUV spectra. Synthetic spectra covering the spectral range 1–912 Å are also available (present day telescopes do not give access to the EUV range at λ > 180 Å). These spectra are created using coronal models after fitting observed spectra.
The development of the Heliometer of the Observatório Nacional
Authors: d'Ávila Victor , Reis Eugênio , Penna Jucira , Oliveira Luiz Carlos , Coletti Alissandro , Matias Victor , Andrei Alexandre , Boscardin Sergio
Published: February 2010

The Observatório Nacional at Rio de Janeiro has developed a new heliometer to perform accurate measurements of the solar diameter. The equipment makes use of split parabolic mirrors, rather than split achromatic lenses as objective. In its first campaign this reflector heliometer generated a few thousands of images of the Sun through which we evaluate the precision of the solar diameter measurements as been 5 mas. The mechanical and thermal stability of the instrument is guaranteed by the use of a telescope tube manufactured in carbon fiber. The tube firmly holds the heliometric mirrors and the CCD camera that collects the images. The perfect lodging between the two half-mirrors over its supporting plate defines the angular instrumental separation between the two images of the sun. The heliometric mirrors and supporting plate have been made in ceramic material in order to ensure the stability of the optical configuration and to maintain the two images of the solar disk displaced by a fixed angle in relation to each other. To verify the stability of the instrument we designed the procedures of collimation and comparison. The collimation consists of using the heliometer for measuring the diameter of an artificial solar image specifically created for this purpose. The comparison is performed by measuring the residual unfold of a punctual image after been unfold by two opposed heliometers. The heliometric approach allows the measurement of the solar diameter at any heliolatitude and can be undertaken as often as desired. Computer programs have been developed for automated image acquisition and analysis. The optical and mechanical design has been performed by using 3D computer aided design software.
Brazilian Decimetric Array (BDA) project - Phase II
Authors: Faria C. , Stephany S. , Sawant H. S. , Cecatto J. R. , Fernandes F. C. R.
Published: February 2010

The configuration of the second phase of the Brazilian Decimetric Array (BDA), installed at Cachoeira Paulista, Brazil (Longitude 45° 0′ 20″ W and Latitude 22° 41′ 19″ S), is a T-shaped array where 21 antennas are being added to existing 5 antennas of the first phase. In the third phase, in each arm of the T array, four more antennas will be added and baselines will be increased to 2.5 × 1.25 km in east-west and south directions, respectively. The antennas will be equally spaced at the distances of 250 meters from the central antenna of the T-array. Also, the frequency range will be increased to 1.2–1.7, 2.8 and 5.6 GHz. The Second phase of the BDA should be operational by the middle of 2010 and will operate in the frequency range of (1.2–1.7) GHz for solar and non solar observations. Here, we present the characteristics of the second phase of the BDA project, details of the array configuration, the u-v coverage, the synthesized beam obtained for the proposed configuration.
Catalogs of variable stars, current and future
Authors: Samus Nikolay N. , Kazarovets Elena V. , Durlevich Olga V.
Published: February 2010

To study effects of stellar variability, it is necessary to have complete lists of variable stars with good coordinates, correct variability ranges, reliable classification. The General Catalogue of Variable Stars (GCVS) is one of the main sources of information of this kind. Recently, the flow of information on stellar variability has increased strongly, requiring new approaches to GCVS compilation. New classification schemes are needed for variable stars, taking into account the development of our knowledge. We present information on the current state of the GCVS, its web data base, new Name-Lists containing thousands of new variables. We also discuss the problems of developing a new classification system for variable stars, of implementing catalogs of variable stars based on automatic surveys into the GCVS, of cooperation and interaction between the GCVS and other important sources of information on variable stars.
Concluding remarks on solar and stellar activities and related planets
Authors: Turck-Chièze Sylvaine
Published: February 2010

The symposium has shown the dynamism of this rapidly evolving discipline. I shall concentrate here on some highlights and some complementary informations. I conclude on open questions with some perspectives on solar & stellar activity and related planets.
Marfan syndrome and the evolving spectrum of heritable thoracic aortic disease: Do we need genetics for clinical decisions?
Authors: von Kodolitsch  , Rybczynski  , Bernhardt  , Mir  , Treede  , Dodge-Khatami  , Robinson  , Sheikhzadeh  , Reichenspurner  , Meinertz
Published: February 2010

Marfan syndrome (MFS) is a disorder of the connective tissue that is inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion and that is classically caused by mutations in the gene coding for fibrillin-1, FBN1. The high mortality of untreated MFS results almost exclusively from aortic complications such as aortic dissection and rupture. However, more than half of patients with Marfan-like features do not have MFS, but have other diseases including inherited aortic aneurysms and dissections (TAAD). We elucidate the increasing spectrum of syndromes associated with Marfan-like features and discuss the clinical implications of these diseases. We performed a systematic review to tabulate all known inherited diseases and syndromes carrying a risk for thoracic aortic disease. We discuss evidence that different syndromes with different causative genes and mutations have different prognoses and profiles of cardiovascular manifestations. We conclude that future decisions for optimized management of patients with inherited TAAD require a comprehensive clinical and genetic work-up.
Cannabis-associated arteritis
Authors: Grotenhermen
Published: February 2010

Background: To investigate the hypothesis that cases of arteritis similar to thromboangiitis obliterans (TAO) and associated with the use of cannabis were caused by cannabis or THC (dronabinol), or that cannabis use is a co-factor of TAO. Patients and methods: A systematic review on case reports and the literature on so-called cannabis arteritis, TAO, and cardiovascular effects of cannabinoids was conducted. Results: Fifteen reports with 57 cases of an arteritis associated with the use of cannabis and two additional case series of TAO, in which some patients also used cannabis, were identified. Clinical and pathological features of cannabis-associated arteritis do not differ from TAO and the major risk factor of TAO, tobacco use, was present in most, if not in all of these cases. The proposed pathophysiological mechanisms for the development of an arteritis by cannabis use are not substantiated. Conclusions: The hypothesis of cannabis being a causative factor or co-factor of TAO or an arteritis similar to TAO is not supported by the available evidence. The use of the term cannabis arteritis should be avoided until or unless more convincing scientific support is forthcoming.
Dacron or ePTFE graft for above-knee femoropopliteal bypass reconstruction. A bi-centre randomised study
Authors: Davidovic  , Jakovljevic  , Radak  , Dragas  , Ilic  , Koncar  , Markovic
Published: February 2010

Background: The objective of this study was to compare polyester (Dacron) and expanded polytetrafluorethilene (ePTFE) grafts for above-knee femoropopliteal bypass. Patients and methods: Eighty five patients with disabling claudications or limb threatening ischemia suitable for above-knee femoropopliteal reconstruction were randomized into two groups. In the first group the surgery was performed using 8 mm Dacron graft, whereas the patients in the second group were operated using ePTFE grafts. Results: The primary patency rates for Dacron and ePTFE were 100 %, and 88.37 % (p < 0.05), while secondary patency rates were 83.3 % and 75 % (p > 0.05) respectively. The early limb salvage rates for Dacron and ePTFE were 100 % and 97.7 % (p > 0.05). Early (30-day) complications (bleeding 2.38 % and 2.32 %; wound infection 11.9 % and 11.63 %) occurred in both groups with similar frequency (p > 0.05). The patients were followed up over a period of 6 to 12 months (mean 8.3 ± 3.6 months). The overall mortality rate in the follow-up period was 2.38 % (one patient) for Dacron and 6.98 % (three patients) for ePTFE group (p > 0.05). Late graft infection was noted in three patients (7.1 %) in Dacron, and two patients (4.65 %) in ePTFE group (p > 0.05). Primary patency rates were not significantly influenced by obesity, diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, cigarette smoking, (p > 0.05). However, poor run-off (only one crural artery patent on preoperative angiography) significantly decreased patency of both grafts and favored the use of ePTFE graft (p < 0.05). Conclusions: This study confirms that both materials are suitable for above-knee femoropopliteal reconstructions. Above-knee femoropopliteal bypass does not have a good long-term prognosis in the presence of poor run-off.
A case of an infected abdominal aortic aneurysm caused by infectious spondylitis
Authors: Orimoto  , Ohta  , Ishibashi  , Sugimoto  , Yamada  , Kamiya
Published: February 2010

An 82-year-old female was admitted with a diagnosis of infectious spondylitis.The culturing of vertebral body biopsy specimens yielded a non-tuberculous acid-fast bacterium (Mycobacterium intracellulare). CT disclosed a saccular mass in the abdominal aorta in contact with the collapsed vertebral bodies (L2-3), and a diagnosis of infected abdominal aortic aneurysm was made. Axillofemoral bypass, resection of the infected abdominal aortic aneurysm, vertebrectomy (L2-3) and reconstruction with a fibular graft, and packing with the greater omentum were performed. An acid fast bacterium was detected from the thrombus in the aneurysm. The clinical course suggested that this patient developed an infected abdominal aortic aneurysm due to Mycobacterium intracellulare transmitted from infectious spondylitis.
Alteration of pharmacokinetics of lepirudin caused by anti-lepirudin antibodies occurring after long-term subcutaneous treatment in a patient with recurrent VTE due to Behcets disease
Authors: Linnemann  , Greinacher  , Lindhoff-Last
Published: February 2010

The direct thrombin inhibitor lepirudin is mainly applied in heparin-induced thrombocytopenia. We report here the case of a 37-year-old kurdish woman in whom Behcets disease was diagnosed in 1998 when she presented with a Budd Chiari syndrome (BCS) complicated by pulmonary embolism. Recurrent venous thromboembolism (VTE) occurred despite anticoagulant therapy with UFH, LMWH or phenprocoumon and various immunosuppressive therapy regimens. In 2001, when BCS recurred ultimately i.v. lepirudin was administered. When the patient improved and remained clinically stable lepirudin was applied subcutaneously. During long-term treatment with twice-daily 50 mg no further VTE was observed over the following years. Additionally, no bleeding complications occurred. In May 2005 anticoagulant therapy was switched to phenprocoumon. BCS reoccurred when INR values were suboptimal in February 2007, and lepirudin treatment was immediately restarted. After admission the patient received 50 mg b.i.d. lepirudin s.c. with plasma levels in the therapeutic range (0.5-1.0 mg / l). Over the following months, lepirudin levels repeatedly exceeded the upper limit of this range and the dosage was stepwise reduced. Finally, 20 mg b.i.d. were sufficient to obtain therapeutic levels. Renal function was normal, but lepirudin antibodies were present in high titer, as assessed by ELISA. We suppose that these antibodies reduce renal filtration of lepirudin thus leading to increased plasma levels. This case is an example for successful long-term therapeutic-dose anticoagulation with s.c. lepirudin in a patient with Behcets disease and recurrent VTE despite therapeutic anticoagulant therapy with LMWH or vitamin K antagonists. However, frequent measurement of lepirudin plasma levels is needed. If stepwise dose lowering is required over time, the presence of lepirudin antibodies should be considered.
Massive pulmonary embolism in spite of temporary vena caval filter
Authors: Brodmann  , Gary  , Pilger
Published: February 2010

Anticoagulation still remains the primary therapy for venous thromboembolism (VTE) in order to prevent the most life-threatening form of VTE, pulmonary embolism (PE). Nevertheless in some patients anticoagulation is impossible. Then vena caval filters serve as a valuable second line therapy against the most feared complication of VTE, fatal PE. We want to present a patient with preceding PE and DVT in whom for the perioperative period a temporary vena caval filter was placed and who showed the complication of a nearly fatal PE. A seventy-two year-old white male was admitted for thrombolytic therapy for massive pulmonary embolism, which was performed successfully. Some hours later the patient developed gastrointestinal bleeding. An adenocarcinoma of the colon was diagnosed and an end-to-end hemicolectomy performed. A temporal caval filter (Gunther filter) was placed in the infrarenal vena cava for the perioperative period. Seven days later the patient syncopated with acute massive onset of dyspnea. A helix computertomography scan of the lung showed again massive central pulmonary embolism with right heart enlargement. An immediate pulmonary embolectomy had to be performed. Subsequent venal cavography revealed a thrombosed vena caval filter and a thrombus proximal to the filter. This case report should emphasize the fact that although a vena cava filter might be of high benefit in patients with contraindication for anticoagulation to prevent recurrent PE, in some cases it can be insufficient and lead to enormous complications.
Traumaentwicklungsstörung: Pro und Contra
Authors: Schmid Marc , Fegert Jörg M. , Petermann Franz
Published: February 2010

Es wird die aktuelle Diskussion um die Aufnahme der Diagnose einer Traumaentwicklungsstörung in das DSM-V aufgegriffen und die Pro- und Contraargumente einer solchen Diagnose gegenübergestellt. Befürworter der Traumaentwicklungsstörung argumentieren, dass viele gut erforschte Traumafolgen mit der Diagnose einer Posttraumatischen Belastungsstörung nur unzureichend beschrieben werden. Gerade Opfer von schweren und sequentiellen Kindheitstraumata entwickeln häufig eine Breitbandsymptomatik mit vielen komorbiden psychischen Störungen. Die klinische Evidenz zeigt, dass diese sehr schwer zu behandelnde Patientengruppe von einem spezifischen traumatherapeutischen Zugang profitiert. Gegen diese Diagnose spricht, dass mit der Einführung einer solchen Diagnose, die in den Diagnosesystemen verlangte rein deskriptive Beschreibung von Symptomen verlassen wird und ätiologische Aspekte in den Vordergrund treten, zudem könnten komorbide Störungen mit ihren biologischen Aspekten übersehen werden. Abschließend werden Implikationen, die sich aus einer solchen Diagnose ergeben, erörtert. Dabei wird auch eine dimensionale Erfassung dieser Symptomatik angedacht.
Triple isotope composition of oxygen in atmospheric water vapor
Authors: Uemura Ryu , Barkan Eugeni , Abe Osamu , Luz Boaz
Published: February 2010

Recently, an excess of 17O (17O‐excess) has been demonstrated in meteoric water and ice cores. Based on theory and experiments, it has been suggested that this excess originates from evaporation of ocean water into under‐saturated air. However, there has never been direct demonstration of this excess in marine vapor. Here, we present results of the first measurements of δ17O and δ18O in vapor samples collected over the South Indian and the Southern Oceans. Our data show the existence of 17O‐excess in marine vapor and also clear negative correlation between 17O‐excess and relative humidity. Thus, 17O‐excess is useful for constraining oceanic humidity in hydrological and climatic models. Using the obtained values of 17O‐excess, we estimated the fractionation factor between H218O and H216O for diffusion in air above the ocean (18αdiff). The new estimation of 18αdiff (1.008) is larger than the widely accepted value in hydrological studies.
Phase relation between Pi2‐associated ionospheric Doppler velocity and magnetic pulsations observed at a midlatitude MAGDAS station
Authors: Ikeda Akihiro , Yumoto Kiyohumi , Uozumi Teiji , Shinohara Manabu , Nozaki Kenro , Yoshikawa Akimasa , Bychkov V. V. , Shevtsov B. M.
Published: February 2010

We examined the correlation between nighttime Pi2 pulsations detected simultaneously by a frequency modulated continuous wave (FM‐CW) (HF) radar and by a ground magnetometer, both located at a midlatitude (L = 2.05) Magnetic Data Acquisition System station. Eighty‐three Pi2 events were observed during the 43 day period from 23 September 2006 to 4 November 2006. The variations of the ground magnetic H component and ionospheric Doppler velocity (V*) exhibited high coherence for 80% of the 83 Pi2 events, for about a half of which the H and V* variations have the same dominant frequency. For such events, V* led H by 90° in phase, in the midnight sector of 2230–0300 LT. The average Ey (east‐west electric field) amplitude derived from V* is 0.27 mV/m. The 90° phase delay was not found for the five events that were observed near dusk and dawn. The phase relation of H and V* for Pi2s in the midnight sector may be explained in terms of the radial standing structure of compressional waves, i.e., cavity mode oscillation.
Rheologic and structural controls on the deformation of Okmok volcano, Alaska: FEMs, InSAR, and ambient noise tomography
Authors: Masterlark Timothy , Haney Matthew , Dickinson Haylee , Fournier Tom , Searcy Cheryl
Published: February 2010

Interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) data indicate that the caldera of Okmok volcano, Alaska, subsided more than a meter during its eruption in 1997. The large deformation suggests a relatively shallow magma reservoir beneath Okmok. Seismic tomography using ambient ocean noise reveals two low‐velocity zones (LVZs). The shallow LVZ corresponds to a region of weak, fluid‐saturated materials within the caldera and extends from the caldera surface to a depth of 2 km. The deep LVZ clearly indicates the presence of the magma reservoir beneath Okmok that is significantly deeper (>4 km depth) compared to previous geodetic‐based estimates (3 km depth). The deep LVZ associated with the magma reservoir suggests magma remains in a molten state between eruptions. We construct finite element models (FEMs) to simulate deformation caused by mass extraction from a magma reservoir that is surrounded by a viscoelastic rind of country rock embedded in an elastic domain that is partitioned to account for the weak caldera materials observed with tomography. This configuration allows us to reduce the estimated magma reservoir depressurization to within lithostatic constraints, while simultaneously maintaining the magnitude of deformation required to predict the InSAR data. More precisely, the InSAR data are best predicted by an FEM simulating a rind viscosity of 7.5 × 1016 Pa s and a mass flux of −4.2 × 109 kg/d from the magma reservoir. The shallow weak layer within the caldera provides a coeruption stress regime and neutral buoyancy horizon that support lateral magma propagation from the central magma reservoir to extrusion near the rim of the caldera.
Mean mesoscale global ocean currents from geodetic pre‐GOCE MDTs with a synthesis of the North Pacific circulation
Authors: Vianna M. L. , Menezes V. V.
Published: February 2010

A new milestone in satellite geodesy is about to be completed with the expected availability of the high‐resolution data from the already in‐orbit Global Ocean Circulation Explorer (GOCE) satellite. There are still some open questions related to capability of recovering mean mesoscale (50 km plus) geostrophic circulation (MGC) patterns from observational Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE)‐based geodetic Mean Dynamic Topography (MDTs), which we examine here in detail. A new set of global geodetic MDTs with high grid resolutions was computed (0.1° and 0.25°) based on the newest EGM08 and GRACE GGM02 geoid models. The high resolution coupled to good mesoscale feature discrimination was derived using efficient filtering procedure based on singular spectrum analysis. The new solutions were contrasted with five important MDTs, including the hybrid and the geodetic MDTs, through empirical orthogonal functions analysis, which permit the determination of the mutual correlation among the MDTs, and establishment of error bounds. The methodology made viable a detailed and robust analysis of the North Pacific Ocean circulation based on these MGCs including comparisons with known results from other studies. We prove the superiority of the geodetic EGM08 (as opposed to hybrid) MDT models by obtaining less noisy and more intense and slender western boundary currents and their recirculations, the bifurcations at the Shatsky Rise, and the known mean eddies in the low‐latitude shear region (NEC‐NECC).
A global view of midlevel liquid‐layer topped stratiform cloud distribution and phase partition from CALIPSO and CloudSat measurements
Authors: Zhang Damao , Wang Zhien , Liu Dong
Published: February 2010

The first 2 year measurements from Cloud‐Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observation (CALIPSO) lidar and CloudSat radar were analyzed to study the distribution and phase partition of midlevel liquid‐layer topped stratiform clouds (MLTSC, top higher than 2.5 km above the Earth's surface and top temperature warmer than −40°C) globally. The global mean MLTSC occurrence was ∼7.8% and the global mean MLTSC percentage fraction related to all midlevel clouds was ∼33.6%. Strong seasonal and day‐night variations of MLTSC occurrence were observed over different latitude regions. In the polar regions, the maximum occurrence was in summer, while the minimum occurred in winter, with small day‐night differences. In the tropics, a high MLTSC occurrence band shifted southward from June–July–August to December–January–February with significantly more MLTSC during the nighttime. The global mean MLTSC top height and temperature were ∼4.5 km above the surface and −13.6°C. Overall, 61.8% of MLTSCs were mixed phase and 12.4% were supercooled liquid (contains only liquid phase or with ice below the detection limit). The fraction of mixed‐phase MLTSC increased as the cloud top temperature decreased, with a sharp increase between −10 and −15°C and a noticeable latitude difference. This temperature dependence indicated that ice nucleation is active at −10°C in these clouds. The global mean ice water path (IWP) of mixed‐phase MLTSCs, estimated based on an empirical temperature–radar reflectivity–ice water content relationship, was ∼13.4 g/m2, and the IWP increased as cloud top temperature decreased. To improve MLTSC parameterizations in global climate models, further studies are needed to better understand the latitude dependence of MLTSC distributions and microphysical properties and how aerosol and water phase cloud properties affecting ice generation in MLTSCs.
Evaluations of cloud properties of global and local cloud system resolving models using CALIPSO and CloudSat simulators
Authors: Satoh Masaki , Inoue Toshiro , Miura Hiroaki
Published: February 2010

This study proposes a method of using a local‐area cloud system resolving model (LCRM) to evaluate and improve cloud properties simulated by a global cloud system resolving model (GCRM). We study the sensitivity to cloud microphysics schemes by comparing the simulated data of LCRM with CloudSat and Cloud‐Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observation (CALIPSO) using satellite simulators. In particular, the impacts of the improved cloud microphysics scheme, which is more comprehensive than the scheme used for the GCRM experiment, with six water categories are studied. We focus on the active convective phase over the maritime continent. During the 4 day integration period of LCRM, 11 tracks of A‐Train satellite observations are available. Cloud properties along the cross sections of these tracks are first examined to find the bias of the simulated data compared to the CloudSat and CALIPSO observations. The improved cloud microphysics scheme used in the LCRM reproduces the overall characteristics of the observed contoured frequency by altitude diagrams (CFADs) well, although biases are still present in the upper layers. We find that the simulated domain‐averaged cloud properties can be evaluated using the observed track data. The comparison of the CFADs between LCRM and GCRM clarifies the bias in GCRM, and the new cloud microphysics scheme improves this bias. Using LCRM, sensitivities to cloud microphysics parameters are examined, and the CFADs are further improved if the ice sedimentation speed is increased. These results indicate that introduction of the graupel category or faster sedimentation of ice clouds reduces the total amount of hydrometeors and leads to more efficiency of precipitation.
Detection of volcanic SO2, ash, and H2SO4 using the Infrared Atmospheric Sounding Interferometer (IASI)
Authors: Karagulian F. , Clarisse L. , Clerbaux C. , Prata A. J. , Hurtmans D. , Coheur P. F.
Published: February 2010

In this work we use infrared spectra recorded by the Infrared Atmospheric Sounding Interferometer (IASI) to characterize the emissions from the Mount Kasatochi volcanic eruption on 7 and 8 August 2008. We first derive the total atmospheric load of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and its evolution over time. For the initial plume, we found values over 1.7 Tg of SO2, making it the largest eruption since the 1991 eruptions of Pinatubo and Hudson. Vertical profiles were retrieved using a line‐by‐line radiative transfer model and an inversion procedure based on the optimal estimation method (OEM). For the Kasatochi eruption, we found a plume altitude of 12.5 ± 4 km. Taking advantage of IASI's broad spectral coverage, we used the ν3 band (∼1362 cm−1) and, for the first time, the ν1 + ν3 band (∼2500 cm−1) of SO2 for the retrievals. While the ν3 band saturates easily for high SO2 concentrations, preventing accurate retrieval, the ν1 + ν3 band has a much higher saturation threshold. We also analyzed the broadband signature observed in the radiance spectra in the 1072–1215 cm−1 range associated with the presence of aerosols. In the initial volcanic plume the signature matches closely that of mineral ash, while by 10 August most mineral ash is undetectable, and the extinction is shown to match closely the absorption spectrum of liquid H2SO4 drops. The extinction by sulphuric acid particles was confirmed by comparing spectra before and a month after the eruption, providing the first spectral detection of such aerosols from nadir view radiance data.