bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Personal Exposure to Air Pollution in Office Workers in Ireland: Measurement, Analysis and Implications
Authors: McCreddin Andrew , Gill Laurence , Broderick Brian , McNabola Aonghus
Published: December 2013

An experimental assessment of personal exposure to PM10 in 59 office workers was carried out in Dublin; Ireland. Two hundred and fifty five samples of 24 hour personal exposure were collected in real time over a 28 month period. The investigation included an assessment of the uptake of pollutants in the lungs during various daily activities using a Human Respiratory Tract Model. The results of the investigation showed that indoor air quality was the overriding determinant of average daily personal exposure as participants in the study spent over 92% of their time indoors. Exposure in the workplace and exposure at home were the most important microenvironments in total uptake of particulate matter. Exposure while commuting or shopping were found to play a minor role in comparison. The investigation highlighted the importance of considering pollutant uptake as well as personal exposure among receptors where variations in levels of physical activity and duration of exposure are present.
Lessons in AIDS Vaccine Development Learned from Studies of Equine Infectious, Anemia Virus Infection and Immunity
Authors: Craigo Jodi , Montelaro Ronald
Published: December 2013

Equine infectious anemia (EIA), identified in 1843 [1] as an infectious disease of horses and as a viral infection in 1904, remains a concern in veterinary medicine today. Equine infectious anemia virus (EIAV) has served as an animal model of HIV-1/AIDS research since the original identification of HIV. Similar to other lentiviruses, EIAV has a high propensity for genomic sequence and antigenic variation, principally in its envelope (Env) proteins. However, EIAV possesses a unique and dynamic disease presentation that has facilitated comprehensive analyses of the interactions between the evolving virus population, progressive host immune responses, and the definition of viral and host correlates of immune control and vaccine efficacy. Summarized here are key findings in EIAV that have provided important lessons toward understanding long term immune control of lentivirus infections and the parameters for development of an enduring broadly protective AIDS vaccine.
Isolation of 18 microsatellite loci in the desert mistletoe Phoradendron californicum (Santalaceae) via 454 pyrosequencing
Authors: Arroyo Juan M. , Munguia‐Vega Adrian , Rodríguez‐Estrella Ricardo , Bascompte Jordi
Published: December 2013

• Premise of the study: Microsatellite primers were developed for the parasitic mistletoe Phoradendron californicum to investigate to what extent population genetic structure depends on host tree distribution within a highly fragmented landscape.

• Methods and Results: Fourteen unlinked polymorphic and four monomorphic nuclear microsatellite markers were developed using a genomic shotgun pyrosequencing method. A total of 187 alleles plus four monomorphic loci alleles were found in 98 individuals sampled in three populations from the Sonoran Desert in the Baja California peninsula (Mexico). Loci averaged 13.3 alleles per locus (range 4–28), and observed and expected heterozygosities within populations varied from 0.167–0.879 and 0.364–0.932, respectively.

• Conclusions: Levels of polymorphism of the reported markers are adequate for studies of diversity and fragmentation in natural populations of this parasitic plant. Cross‐species amplifications in P. juniperinum and P. diguetianum only showed four markers that could be useful in P. diguetianum.
New microsatellite markers for Anthyllis vulneraria (Fabaceae), analyzed with Spreadex gel electrophoresis
Authors: Kesselring Halil , Hamann Elena , Stöcklin Jürg , Armbruster Georg F. J.
Published: December 2013

• Premise of the study: New microsatellite primers were developed for the diploid herb Anthyllis vulneraria. These primers will be used in upcoming studies focusing on random genetic variation, local adaptation, and phenotypic plasticity in alpine plants.

• Methods and Results: The new primers were adjusted to separate PCR amplicons (70 to 170 bp) on precast Spreadex gels using horizontal gel electrophoresis. No capillary sequencer was needed. Three to twelve alleles were found per locus depending on the population studied.

• Conclusions: Our preliminary results showed that the three studied alpine populations are predominantly outcrossing, but include variable levels of self‐fertilization.
Total synthesis of the endogenous inflammation resolving lipid resolvin D2 using a common lynchpin
Authors: Li John , Leong May May , Stewart Alastair , Rizzacasa Mark A
Published: December 2013

The total synthesis of the endogenous inflammation resolving eicosanoid resolvin D2 (1) is described. The key steps involved a Wittig reaction between aldehyde 5 and the ylide derived from phosphonium salt 6 to give enyne 17 and condensation of the same ylide with aldehyde 7 to afford enyne 11. Desilylation of 11 followed by hydrozirconation and iodination gave the vinyl iodide 4 and Sonogashira coupling between this compound and enyne 3 provided alkyne 18. Acetonide deprotection, partial reduction and ester hydrolysis then gave resolvin D2 (1).
Halogenated volatiles from the fungus Geniculosporium and the actinomycete Streptomyces chartreusis
Authors: Wang Tao , Rabe Patrick , Citron Christian A , Dickschat Jeroen S
Published: December 2013

Two unidentified chlorinated volatiles X and Y were detected in headspace extracts of the fungus Geniculosporium. Their mass spectra pointed to the structures of a chlorodimethoxybenzene for X and a dichlorodimethoxybenzene for Y. The mass spectra of some constitutional isomers for X and Y were included in our databases and proved to be very similar, thus preventing a full structural assignment. For unambiguous structure elucidation all possible constitutional isomers for X and Y were obtained by synthesis or from commercial suppliers. Comparison of mass spectra and GC retention times rigorously established the structures of the two chlorinated volatiles. Chlorinated volatiles are not very widespread, but brominated or even iodinated volatiles are even more rare. Surprisingly, headspace extracts from Streptomyces chartreusis contained methyl 2-iodobenzoate, a new natural product that adds to the small family of iodinated natural products.
The Cost of Antiretroviral Drug Resistance in HIV-Positive Patients
Authors: Krentz Hartmut B , Ko Karen , Beckthold Brenda , Gill M John
Published: December 2013

Background

Antiretroviral (ARV) drug resistance limits treatment choices, often necessitating the selection of drugs with less desirable pill burdens, toxicity profiles, drug interactions and dosing schedules, and may increase cost. We examine the impact of resistance on the cost of HIV care.

Methods

All adult HIV-positive individuals newly referred for HIV care from 1 January 2007 to 1 January 2011 and followed until 31 December 2011 at the Southern Alberta Clinic, Calgary, AB, Canada, were included. We determined the cost of all ARV drugs, and HIV-related outpatient and inpatient care, reported as mean per patient per month (PPPM) costs in 2011 Canadian dollars (CDN).

Results

Overall, 78% of patients received genotypic antiretroviral resistance testing (GART); 57% among ARV-naive patients, 21% after suspected viral failure, and 20% during a treatment interruption. Resistance was detected in 6%, 49% and 21% of all tests respectively. The total mean PPPM cost for patients with GART was CDN 1,179. Patients with primary resistance had mean total PPPM costs of CDN 956. Patients with no resistance had mean PPPM costs of CDN 1,058, by contrast with the CDN 1,291 costs of patients with secondary/acquired resistance. Mean costs for one, two or three ARV class resistance was CDN 1,278, 1,337 and 1,801, respectively. Mean PPPM costs increased by 31% from CDN 1,068 to 1,396, respectively, before and after a positive resistance test.

Conclusions

Transmission of resistant virus as well as emergence of resistance during ARV therapy leads to increased costs. Mean costs increased by number of resistant classes. Routine GART and optimizing ARV regimens to avoid resistance might minimize the long-term costs of HIV care.
Amiodarone and Concurrent Antiretroviral Therapy: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Naccarato Mark , Yoong Deborah , la Porte Charles , Fong Ignatius
Published: December 2013

Therapy for HIV often can make pharmacologic management of comorbidities challenging since many antiretroviral agents significantly modulate drug metabolism pathways. Amiodarone is commonly used to control cardiac arrhythmias; however, it is recognized as having a narrow therapeutic window with potential for significant drug toxicity. Amiodarone is metabolized by CYP3A4, CYP2C8 and CYP1A1 to an active metabolite and therefore may be affected by comedications that modulate these isoenzymes. Since amiodarone is frequently associated with toxicity, the Heart Rhythm Society (formerly the North American Society of Pacing and Electrophysiology) developed guidelines to minimize the potential for adverse events. However, recommendations for the management of situations where amiodarone must be given with a drug that significantly affects its metabolism are lacking. This paper will discuss our experience with a case of concurrent amiodarone and antiretroviral therapy, as well as provide a review of interactions that may lead to toxicity or potential treatment failure with amiodarone. Primary literature was identified through Medline (1946 to May 2013) and Embase (1980 to May 2013), using the following terms: amiodarone, anti-retroviral, HIV, cytochrome P450 and drug interaction. Case reports, studies of xenobiotic interactions with amiodarone in healthy volunteers, and in vitro studies that investigated metabolic pathways of amiodarone were reviewed. Although clinical data was limited, several cases support the finding that potent inhibitors or inducers of cytochrome P450 may lead to amiodarone toxicity or lack of therapeutic effect, respectively. As well, several case reports, in vitro data and clinical investigations have associated some of the antiretrovirals with QT prolongation, which may result in additive cardiotoxicity in patients also receiving amiodarone. Therefore, to manage situations where amiodarone must be used with concurrent interacting antiretrovirals, we recommend a monitoring plan that follows the Heart Rhythm Society guidelines, however with the addition of serial therapeutic drug level monitoring and frequent electrocardiography to minimize potential toxicity and successfully manage both conditions.
Governance of differential stakeholder interests in supply chains and networks
Authors: Wubben E.F.M. , Bremmers H.J. , Ingenbleek P.T.M. , Wals A.E.J.
Published: December 2013

Competing frames and interests regarding food provision and resource allocation, adding to the increased global interdependencies, necessitate agri-food companies and institutions to engage themselves in very diverse multi-stakeholder settings. To develop new forms of interaction, and governance, researchers with very different backgrounds in social sciences try to align, or at least share, research trajectories. This first paper in a special issue on governance of differential stakeholder interests discusses, first, different usages of stakeholder categories, second, the related intersubjectivity in sciences, third, an rough sketch of the use of stakeholder management in different social sciences. Social science researchers study a wide variety of topics, such as individual stakeholder impact on new business models, stakeholder group responses to health claims, firm characteristics explaining multi-stakeholder dialogue, and the impact of multi-stakeholder dialogue on promoting production systems, and on environmental innovations. Interestingly, researchers use very different methods for data gathering and data analysis.
The mediating role of environmental innovation in the relationship between environmental management and firm performance in a multi-stakeholder environment
Authors: Grekova K. , Bremmers H.J. , Trienekens J.H. , Kemp R.G.M. , Omta S.W.F.
Published: December 2013

Nowadays, firms are increasingly challenged to bridge potentially conflicting economic interests of primary commercial stakeholders and sustainability demands from secondary non-commercial stakeholder groups. While a number of firms view investments in environmental management as disconnected from their value-creating activities, others have reported achieved cost efficiency and differentiation advantages. Prior research suggests that environmental innovation might be the missing link between environmental management and firm performance. However, the mediating effect of environmental innovation in the relationship between environmental management and a firm's performance had not been empirically tested so far. Our paper provides a contribution by conducting an empirical investigation into this possible mediating effect. Although the presumed mediating role of environmental innovation suggests that it is influenced by internal environmental management, environmental innovation literature is especially concerned with the role of external stakeholders in environmental innovation. This study investigates the role of the engagement of stakeholders such as supply chain partners, industry, and public authorities in environmental impact reduction. We hypothesise that environmental innovation positively mediates the relationship between environmental management and firm performance, and that the engagement of stakeholders has a positive impact on environmental innovation. The research model was tested with a variance-based structural equation model using data from 90 Dutch food and beverage firms. The results confirm the positive mediating effect of environmental process innovation on the relationship between environmental management and cost efficiency advantage. Environmental product innovation contributes to a differentiation advantage but it is not significantly influenced by environmental management. So we could not support a positive mediating effect of environmental product innovation on the relationship between environmental management and differentiation advantage. Instead, environmental collaboration with supply chain partners has a strong positive impact on environmental product innovation. It also positively influences environmental process innovation but this influence is much weaker than the influence of internal environmental management. Our findings can assist managers in their decision making regarding the implementation of environmental innovations and environmental collaboration with external parties. The study is also relevant to policy makers as a tool to assess the appropriateness of their policy.
The importance of stakeholder-initiatives for business models in short food supply chains: the case of the Netherlands
Authors: Wubben E.F.M. , Fondse M. , Pascucci S.
Published: December 2013

While the interest in Short Food Supply Chains (SFSCs) is growing, we still await management studies that explore the impact of stakeholders of SFSCs in substantial numbers. This article investigates the differences in the business models of SFSCs that may be attributed to the initiator-stakeholder, interacting with other stakeholders. Essential to business models are the value proposition, value creation and value capture, but it is the ambition of the initiator-stakeholder that starts a SFSC. Initiator-stakeholders of 57 SFSCs were interviewed on a combination of both multiple choice and open questions. The data converges on three categories of business models. First and foremost, a large majority of SFSCs is driven by the aim of the initiator-stakeholder to increase economic viability, uses the market as governance structure, resulting in profit margins likely to be above margins in conventional business. Two other categories of business models of SFSCs group around the theme of producer-support, and, producer-consumer interaction, respectively.
Facilitating Sustainability of Education by Problem-Based Learning (PBL) and Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
Authors: Zhou Chunfang , Purushothaman Aparna , Rongbutsri Nikorn
Published: December 2013

This paper focuses on two approaches to facilitate sustainability of education development, such as pedagogical approach and technological approach. We regard using Problem-Based Learning (PBL) as a strategy of the pedagogical approach and application of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) as a strategy of the technological approach. The two approaches are possibility combined in one educational context. From this sense, a case on Web 2.0 employed at Aalborg University, Denmark where has a long history of PBL model is discussed in this paper. This case indicates that ICT may offer students in PBL personal tools for knowledge construction, reflecting, sharing and collaboration in project work, while also connecting to communities, network and resources of their own interest. Relating this case to the challenges of sustainability of education development in developing countries, some practical issues will be discussed in the countries such as India, Thailand and China.
TGF-β–Mediated Foxp3 Gene Expression Is Cooperatively Regulated by Stat5, Creb, and AP-1 through CNS2
Authors: Ogawa Chihiro , Tone Yukiko , Tsuda Masato , Peter Christian , Waldmann Herman , Tone Masahide
Published: December 2013

Foxp3 plays an important role in the development and the function of regulatory T cells (Treg). Both the induction and maintenance of Foxp3 gene expression are controlled by several regulatory regions including two enhancers in the conserved noncoding sequences (CNS). The functions of Enhancer 1 in CNS1 are well established, whereas those of Enhancer 2 in CNS2 remain unclear. Although CNS2 contains enhancer activity, methylated CpG sequences in this region prevent Foxp3 gene expression in Foxp3− T cells. These sequences are, however, demethylated in Foxp3+ Treg by mechanisms as yet unknown. To investigate the role of CNS2, we have determined the Enhancer 2 core sequence by luciferase reporter assays in the absence of methylation to exclude the inhibitory effect and shown that transcription factors AP-1, Stat5, and Creb cooperate in regulating Enhancer 2 activity. We have then determined the methylation sensitivity of each of the transcription factors. AP-1 was found to be methylation sensitive as has previously been described for Creb. However, Stat5 was active even when its binding site in CNS2 was methylated. Stat5 binding to Enhancer 2 occurred early and preceded that of AP-1 and Creb during Treg induction. In addition, Stat5 activation is itself dependent on TGF-β signaling through Smad3-mediated blockade of Socs3 expression. These findings suggest that Stat5 is a key regulator for opening up the CNS2 region during induced Treg induction, whereas AP-1 and Creb maintain Enhancer 2 activity.
Opposing Immunomodulatory Roles of Prostaglandin D2 during the Progression of Skin Inflammation
Authors: Sarashina Hana , Tsubosaka Yoshiki , Omori Keisuke , Aritake Kosuke , Nakagawa Takayuki , Hori Masatoshi , Hirai Hiroyuki , Nakamura Masataka , Narumiya Shuh , Urade Yoshihiro , Ozaki Hiroshi , Murata Takahisa
Published: December 2013

The effects of PGD2 are extremely context dependent. It can have pro- or anti-inflammatory effects in clinically important pathological conditions. A greater mechanistic insight into the determinants of PGD2 activity during inflammation is thus required. In this study, we investigated the role of PGD2 in croton oil–induced dermatitis using transgenic (TG) mice overexpressing hematopoietic PGD synthase. Administration of croton oil caused tissue swelling and vascular leakage in the mouse ear. Compared with wild-type animals, TG mice produced more PGD2 and showed decreased inflammation in the early phase, but more severe manifestations during the late phase. Data obtained from bone marrow transplantation between wild-type and TG mice indicated that PGD2 produced by tissue resident cells in the TG mice attenuated early-phase inflammation, whereas PGD2 produced from hematopoietic lineage cells exacerbated late-phase inflammation. There are two distinct PGD2 receptors: D-prostanoid receptor (DP) and chemoattractant receptor–homologous molecule expressed on Th2 cells (CRTH2). In TG mice, treatment with a DP antagonist exacerbated inflammation in the early phase, whereas treatment with a CRTH2 antagonist attenuated inflammation during the late phase. In vitro experiments showed that DP agonism enhanced vascular endothelial barrier formation, whereas CRTH2 agonism stimulated neutrophil migration. Collectively, these results show that when hematopoietic PGD synthase is overexpressed, tissue resident cell–derived PGD2 suppresses skin inflammation via DP in the early phase, but hematopoietic lineage cell–derived PGD2 stimulates CRTH2 and promotes inflammation during the late phase. DP-mediated vascular barrier enhancement or CRTH2-mediated neutrophil activation may be responsible for these effects. Thus, PGD2 represents opposite roles in inflammation, depending on the disease phase in vivo.
Role of Confounding Factors in Assessing Immune Competence of Bivalves (Mya arenaria, Mytilus edulis) Exposed to Pollutants
Authors: Brousseau-Fournier C. , Alix G. , Beaudry A. , Gauthier-Clerc S. , Duchemin M. , Fortier M. , Auffret M. , Fournier M. , Brousseau P.
Published: December 2013

The efficacy of bio-monitoring programs could be improved through addition of sensi- tive biomarkers. [...]
Fluoxetine Accumulation and Metabolism as Exposure Biomarker to Better Understand Biological Efects in Gastropods
Authors: Gust M. , Cren-Olivé C. , Bulete A. , Buronfosse T. , Garric J.
Published: December 2013

Fluoxetine is a widely used antidepressant frequently found in wastewater treatment plant effluent and in aquatic ecosystems at concentrations below μg/L. [...]
Several Pharmaceuticals Impaired Harbor Seal Lymphocytes (Phoca vitulina) In Vitro
Authors: Kleinert C. , Mournier M. , Fortier M. , Brousseau P. , DeGuise S. , Fournier M.
Published: December 2013

In human and veterinary therapeutics, approximately 3000 different drugs are used and prescribed in high quantities. [...]
Genotoxic Impact of a Municipal Effluent Dispersion Plume in the Freshwater Mussel Elliptio complanata: An In Situ Study
Authors: Lacaze E. , Devaux A. , Bony S. , Bruneau A. , André C. , Pelletier M. , Gagné F.
Published: December 2013

Many surface waters have been reported to be contaminated whereas the most critical sources remain to be identified. [...]
Energy Metabolism and Pesticides: Biochemical and Molecular Responses to Copper in Roach Rutilus rutilus
Authors: Maes V. , Vettier A. , Jaffal A. , Dedourge-Geffard O. , Delahaut L. , Geffard A. , Betoulle S. , David E.
Published: December 2013

Copper (Cu) is a trace element which is essential to life, especially in cellular biochemi- cal reactions (including cellular respiration) and acts as a cofactor for many enzymes. [...]
Immunotoxicity of Heavy Metals (Silver, Cadmium, Mercury and Lead) on Marine Bivalve Mytilus edulis: In Vitro Exposure of Hemocytes
Authors: Rault P. , Fortier M. , Pédelucq J. , Lacaze E. , Brousseau P. , Auffret M. , Fournier M.
Published: December 2013

Anthropogenic pressures lead to profound deleterious effects on coastal aquatic ecosys- tems. [...]
Toxic effects of copper and cadmium on fertilization potency of gametes of Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas)
Authors: Mai H. , Morin B. , Cachot J.
Published: December 2013

Not available
Remote predictive mapping of surficial earth materials: Wager Bay North area, Nunavut - NTS 46-E (N), 46-K (SW), 46-L, 46-M (SW), 56-H (N), 56-I and 56-J (S)
Authors: Campbell J E , Harris J R , Huntley D H , McMartin I , Wityk U , Dredge L A , Eagles S
Published: December 2013

Remote predictive mapping (RPM) of surficial earth materials in the Wager Bay North Area [NTS 046E (N), 046K (SW), 046L, 046M (SW), 056H (N), 056I and 056J (S)] was undertaken as part of the Geo-mapping for Energy and Minerals (GEM) Melville Peninsula Multiple
Metals Project. A mosaic comprising seven separate LANDSAT TM 7 images was prepared for the classification of surficial materials. Training areas representative of 12 surficial material classes were identified through the use of airphoto interpretation, LANDSAT imagery and field knowledge of the
mapping area. The statistical separability of the training areas with respect to spectral reflectance was evaluated using transformed divergence analysis. The Robust Classification Method (RCM) was used to classify the LANDSAT imagery producing a number of predictive maps of surficial materials.
These maps were statistically analysed via a confusion matrix and associated measures of accuracy, then geologically evaluated through the use of airphotos in concert with field observations. The mapping of surficial materials using LANDSAT data is not without problems but does generate useful
predictive maps that serve to focus and guide more detailed field mapping studies as well as providing information on surficial materials in extensive areas that cannot be field mapped. Incorporation of field knowledge and the expertise of Quaternary geologists are critical to the production of
predictive maps of surficial materials through the entire remote predictive mapping process.
Novel Conservative Methods for Schrödinger Equations with Variable Coefficients over Long Time
Authors: Qian Xu , Chen Yaming , Song Songhe
Published: December 2013

In this paper, we propose a wavelet collocation splitting (WCS) method, and a Fourier pseudospectral splitting (FPSS) method as comparison, for solving one-dimensional and two-dimensional Schrödinger equations with variable coefficients in quantum mechanics. The two methods can preserve the intrinsic properties of original problems as much as possible. The splitting technique increases the computational efficiency. Meanwhile, the error estimation and some conservative properties are investigated. It is proved to preserve the charge conservation exactly. The global energy and momentum conservation laws can be preserved under several conditions. Numerical experiments are conducted during long time computations to show the performances of the proposed methods and verify the theoretical analysis.
Two Uniform Tailored Finite Point Schemes for the Two Dimensional Discrete Ordinates Transport Equations with Boundary and Interface Layers
Authors: Han Houde , Tang Min , Ying Wenjun
Published: December 2013

This paper presents two uniformly convergent numerical schemes for the two dimensional steady state discrete ordinates transport equation in the diffusive regime, which is valid up to the boundary and interface layers. A five-point node-centered and a four-point cell-centered tailored finite point schemes (TFPS) are introduced. The schemes first approximate the scattering coefficients and sources by piecewise constant functions and then use special solutions to the constant coefficient equation as local basis functions to formulate a discrete linear system. Numerically, both methods can not only capture the diffusion limit, but also exhibit uniform convergence in the diffusive regime, even with boundary layers. Numerical results show that the five-point scheme has first-order accuracy and the four-point scheme has second-order accuracy, uniformly with respect to the mean free path. Therefore a relatively coarse grid can be used to capture the two dimensional boundary and interface layers.
On the Effect of Ghost Force in the Quasicontinuum Method: Dynamic Problems in One Dimension
Authors: Li Xiantao , Ming Pingbing
Published: December 2013

Numerical error caused by “ghost forces” in a quasicontinuum method is studied in the context of dynamic problems. The error in the discrete W1,∞ norm is analyzed for the time scale (ε) and the time scale (1) with ε being the lattice spacing.
Immunoblotting with Human Native Antigen Shows Stage-Related Sensitivity in the Serodiagnosis of Hepatic Cystic Echinococcosis
Authors: Mariconti Mara , Bazzocchi Chiara , Tamarozzi Francesca , Meroni Valeria , Genco Francesca , Maserati Roberta , Brunetti Enrico
Published: December 2013

The diagnosis of hepatic cystic echinococcosis is based on ultrasonography and confirmed by serology. However, no biological marker of cyst viability is currently available implying years-long patient follow-up, which is not always feasible in endemic areas. We characterized the performance of an immunoblotting test based on human hydatid cyst fluid with particular regard to its ability to distinguish between cyst stages. Sera from patients with cysts in different stages showed distinctive band pattern recognition. Most importantly, the test discriminated in 80% of cases CE3a from CE3b transitional cysts, known to have different viability profiles. Interestingly, we observed a rapid change in band pattern recognition of sera from one patient at time points when his cyst passed from active to transitional to inactive stages. Further identification of different antigens expressed by different cyst stages will support the development of diagnostic tools that could early define cyst viability, to guide clinical decision making, and shorten patient follow-up.
Characterization Based on the 56-Kda Type-Specific Antigen Gene of Orientia tsutsugamushi Genotypes Isolated from Leptotrombidium Mites and the Rodent Host Post-Infection
Authors: Takhampunya Ratree , Tippayachai Bousaraporn , Promsathaporn Sommai , Leepitakrat Surachai , Monkanna Taweesak , Schuster Anthony L. , Melendrez Melanie C. , Paris Daniel H. , Richards Allen L. , Richardson Jason H.
Published: December 2013

Characterization of the 56-kDa type-specific antigen (TSA) genes of Orientia tsutsugamushi (OT) from three naturally infected, laboratory-reared mite colonies comprising three species (Leptotrombidium deliense [Ld], Leptotrombidium imphalum [Li], and Leptotrombidium chiangraiensis [Lc]) has revealed the presence of single and coexisting OT genotypes found in individual chiggers. The Karp genotype was found in all of the chiggers examined, whereas Gilliam and UT302 genotypes were only observed in combination with the Karp genotype. From analysis of these OT genotypes after transmission from chiggers to mice it was determined that with the Lc and Li mites, the OT genotype composition in the rodent spleens post-infection had not changed and therefore resembled that observed in the feeding chiggers. However, only the Karp genotype was found in rodents after feeding by Ld chiggers carrying Karp and Gilliam genotypes. The current findings reveal a complex association among the host, pathogen, and vector.
Technical Note: Comparison of ensemble Kalman filter and variational approaches for CO2 data assimilation
Authors: Chatterjee A. , Michalak A. M.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. Data assimilation (DA) approaches, including variational and the ensemble Kalman filter methods, provide a computationally efficient framework for solving the CO2 source–sink estimation problem. Unlike DA applications for weather prediction and constituent assimilation, however, the advantages and disadvantages of DA approaches for CO2 flux estimation have not been extensively explored. In this study, we compare and assess estimates from two advanced DA approaches (an ensemble square root filter and a variational technique) using a batch inverse modeling setup as a benchmark, within the context of a simple one-dimensional advection–diffusion prototypical inverse problem that has been designed to capture the nuances of a real CO2 flux estimation problem. Experiments are designed to identify the impact of the observational density, heterogeneity, and uncertainty, as well as operational constraints (i.e., ensemble size, number of descent iterations) on the DA estimates relative to the estimates from a batch inverse modeling scheme. No dynamical model is explicitly specified for the DA approaches to keep the problem setup analogous to a typical real CO2 flux estimation problem. Results demonstrate that the performance of the DA approaches depends on a complex interplay between the measurement network and the operational constraints. Overall, the variational approach (contingent on the availability of an adjoint transport model) more reliably captures the large-scale source–sink patterns. Conversely, the ensemble square root filter provides more realistic uncertainty estimates. Selection of one approach over the other must therefore be guided by the carbon science questions being asked and the operational constraints under which the approaches are being applied.
Impact of emission changes on secondary inorganic aerosol episodes across Germany
Authors: Banzhaf S. , Schaap M. , Wichink Kruit R. J. , Denier van der Gon H. A. C. , Stern R. , Builtjes P. J. H.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. In this study, the response of secondary inorganic aerosol (SIA) concentrations to changes in precursor emissions during high PM10 episodes over central Europe in spring 2009 was investigated with the Eulerian Chemistry Transport Model (CTM) REM-Calgrid (RCG). The model performed well in capturing the temporal variation of PM10 and SIA concentrations and was used to analyse the different origin, development and characteristics of the selected high PM10 episodes. SIA concentrations, which contribute to about 50% of the PM10 concentration in northwestern Europe, have been studied by means of several model runs for different emission scenarios. SO2, NOx and NH3 emissions have been varied within a domain covering Germany and within a domain covering Europe. It was confirmed that the response of sulfate, nitrate and ammonium concentrations and deposition fluxes of S and N to SO2, NOx and NH3 emission changes is non-linear. The deviation from linearity was found to be lower for total deposition fluxes of S and N than for SIA concentrations. Furthermore, the study has shown that incorporating explicit cloud chemistry in the model adds non-linear responses to the system. It significantly modifies the response of modelled SIA concentrations and S and N deposition fluxes to changes in precursor emissions. The analysis of emission reduction scenario runs demonstrates that next to European-wide emission reductions additional national NH3 measures in Germany are more effective in reducing SIA concentrations and deposition fluxes than additional national measures on SO2 and NOx.
Liquid–liquid phase separation in particles containing organics mixed with ammonium sulfate, ammonium bisulfate, ammonium nitrate or sodium chloride
Authors: You Y. , Renbaum-Wolff L. , Bertram A. K.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. As the relative humidity varies from high to low values in the atmosphere, particles containing organic species and inorganic salts may undergo liquid–liquid phase separation. The majority of the laboratory work on this subject has used ammonium sulfate as the inorganic salt. In the following we studied liquid–liquid phase separation in particles containing organics mixed with the following salts: ammonium sulfate, ammonium bisulfate, ammonium nitrate and sodium chloride. In each experiment one organic was mixed with one inorganic salt and the liquid–liquid phase separation relative humidity (SRH) was determined. Since we studied 23 different organics mixed with four different salts, a total of 92 different particle types were investigated. Out of the 92 types, 49 underwent liquid–liquid phase separation. For all the inorganic salts, liquid–liquid phase separation was never observed when the oxygen-to-carbon elemental ratio (O : C) ≥ 0.8 and was always observed for O : C < 0.5. For 0.5 ≤ O : C < 0.8, the results depended on the salt type. Out of the 23 organic species investigated, the SRH of 20 organics followed the trend: (NH4)2SO4 ≥ NH4HSO4 ≥ NaCl ≥ NH4NO3. This trend is consistent with previous salting out studies and the Hofmeister series. Based on the range of O : C values found in the atmosphere and the current results, liquid–liquid phase separation is likely a frequent occurrence in both marine and non-marine environments.
Impact of data quality and surface-to-column representativeness on the PM2.5/satellite AOD relationship for the Continental United States
Authors: Toth T. D. , Zhang J. , Campbell J. R. , Hyer E. J. , Reid J. S. , Shi Y. , Westphal D. L.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. Satellite-derived aerosol optical depth (AOD) observations have been used to estimate particulate matter less than 2.5 μm (PM2.5). However, such a relationship could be affected by the representativeness of satellite-derived AOD to surface aerosol particle mass concentration and satellite AOD data quality. Using purely measurement-based methods, we have explored the impacts of data quality and representativeness on the AOD inferred PM2.5/AOD relationship for the Continental United States (CONUS). This is done through temporally and spatially collocated datasets of PM2.5 and AOD retrievals from Aqua/Terra Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS), Multi-angle Imaging Spectroradiometer (MISR), and Cloud-Aerosol Lidar with Orthogonal Polarization (CALIOP). These analyses show that improving data quality of satellite AOD, such as done with data assimilation-grade retrievals, increases their correlation with PM2.5. However, overall correlation is relatively low across the CONUS. Also, integrated extinction observed within the 500 m above groud level (a.g.l.), as measured by CALIOP, is not well representative of the total column AOD. Surface aerosol in the Eastern CONUS is better correlated than in the Western CONUS. The best correlation values are found for estimated dry mass CALIOP extinction at 200–300 m a.g.l. and PM2.5, but additional work is needed to address the ability of using actively sensed AOD as a proxy for PM2.5 concentrations.
Cloud detection and classification based on MAX-DOAS observations
Authors: Wagner T. , Beirle S. , Dörner S. , Friess U. , Remmers J. , Shaiganfar R.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. Multi-AXis-Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (MAX-DOAS) observations of aerosols and trace gases can be strongly influenced by clouds. Thus it is important to identify clouds and characterise their properties. In this study we investigate the effects of clouds on several quantities which can be derived from MAX-DOAS observations, like the radiance, the colour index (radiance ratio at two selected wavelengths), the absorption of the oxygen dimer O4 and the fraction of inelastically scattered light (Ring effect). To identify clouds, these quantities can be either compared to their corresponding clear sky reference values, or their dependencies on time or viewing direction can be analysed. From the investigation of the temporal variability the influence of clouds can be identified even for individual measurements. Based on our investigations we developed a cloud classification scheme, which can be applied in a flexible way to MAX-DOAS or zenith DOAS observations: in its simplest version, zenith observations of the colour index are used to identify the presence of clouds (or high aerosol load). In more sophisticated versions, also other quantities and viewing directions are considered, which allows sub-classifications like e.g. thin or thick clouds, or fog. We applied our cloud classification scheme to MAX-DOAS observations during the CINDI campaign in the Netherlands in Summer 2009 and found very good agreement with sky images taken from ground.
Technical Note: Simultaneous measurement of sedimentary N2 and N2O production and a modified 15N isotope pairing technique
Authors: Hsu T.-C. , Kao S.-J.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. Dinitrogen (N2) and/or nitrous oxide (N2O) are produced through denitrification, anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox) or nitrification in sediments, of which entangled processes complicate the absolute rate estimations of gaseous nitrogen production from individual pathways. The classical isotope pairing technique (IPT), the most common 15N nitrate enrichment method to quantify denitrification, has recently been modified by different researchers to (1) discriminate between the N2 produced by denitrification and anammox or to (2) provide a more accurate denitrification rate under considering production of both N2O and N2. In case 1, the revised IPT focused on N2 production being suitable for the environments of a low N2O-to-N2 production ratio, while in case 2, anammox was neglected. This paper develops a modified method to refine previous versions of IPT. Cryogenic traps were installed to separately preconcentrate N2 and N2O, thus allowing for subsequent measurement of the two gases generated in one sample vial. The precision is better than 2% for N2 (m/z 28, m/z 29 and m/z 30), and 1.5% for N2O (m/z 44, m/z 45 and m/z 46). Based on the six m/z peaks of the two gases, the 15N nitrate traceable processes including N2 and N2O from denitrification and N2 from anammox were estimated. Meanwhile, N2O produced by nitrification was estimated via the production rate of unlabeled 44N2O. To validate the applicability of our modified method, incubation experiments were conducted using sediment cores taken from the Danshuei Estuary in Taiwan. Rates of the aforementioned nitrogen removal processes were successfully determined. Moreover, N2O yield was as high as 66%, which would significantly bias previous IPT approaches if N2O was not considered. Our modified method not only complements previous versions of IPT but also provides more comprehensive information to advance our understanding of nitrogen dynamics of the water–sediment interface.
Tropical montane forests are a larger than expected global carbon store
Authors: Spracklen D. V. , Righelato R.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. Tropical montane forests (TMFs) are recognised for the provision of hydrological services and the protection of biodiversity, but their role in carbon storage is not well understood. We synthesized published observations (n=89) of above-ground biomass (AGB) from forest inventory plots in TMFs (defined here as forests between 23.5° N and 23.5° S with elevations ≥ 1000 m a.s.l.). We found that mean (median) AGB in TMF is 257 (239) t per hectare of Earth's surface. We demonstrate that AGB declines moderately with both elevation and slope angle but that TMF store substantial amounts of biomass, both at high elevations (up to 3500 m) and on steep slopes (slope angles of up to 40°). We combined remote sensed datasets of forest cover with high resolution data of elevation to show that seventy five percent of the planimetric global area of TMF are on steep slopes (slope angles greater than 27°). We used our remote sensed datasets to demonstrate that this prevalence of steep slopes results in the global land-surface area of TMF (1.22 million km2) being 40% greater than the planimetric (horizontal) area that is the usual basis for reporting global land surface areas and remotely sensed data. Our study suggests that TMF are likely to be a greater store of carbon than previously thought, highlighting the need for conservation of remaining montane forests.
Cold-water coral growth under extreme environmental conditions, the Cape Lookout area, NW Atlantic
Authors: Mienis F. , Duineveld G. , Davies A. J. , Lavaleye M. J. N. , Ross S. W. , Seim H. , Bane J. , van Haren H. , Bergman M. , de Haas H. , Brooke S. , van Weering T.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. The Cape Lookout cold-water coral area off the coast of North Carolina forms the shallowest and northernmost cold-water coral mound area on the Blake Plateau in the NW Atlantic. Cold-water coral habitats near Cape Lookout are occasionally bathed in the Gulf Stream, which is characterised by oligotrophic warm water and strong surface currents. Here, we present the first insights into the mound distribution and morphology, sedimentary environment and coral cover and near-bed environmental conditions as recorded by bottom landers from this coral area. The mounds occur between 320–550 m water depth and are characterised by high acoustic backscatter indicating the presence of hard structure. Three distinct mound morphologies were observed, (1) a mound with a flattened top at 320 m, (2) multi-summited mounds with a tear drop shape in the middle part of the area and (3) a single mound at 540 m water depth. Echosounder profiles show the presence of a strong reflector underneath all mound structures that forms the base of the mounds. This reflector cropped out at the downstream side of the single mound and consists of carbonate slabs. Video analysis revealed that all mounds are covered by Lophelia pertusa and that living colonies only occur close to the summits of the SSW side of the mounds, which is the side that faces the strongest currents. Off mound areas were characterised by low backscatter and sediment ripples, indicating the presence of relatively strong bottom currents. Two bottom landers were deployed amidst the coral mounds between December 2009 and May 2010. Both landers recorded prominent features near the seabed as well as in the overlying water column. The period between December and April was characterised by several events of increasing temperature and salinity, coinciding with increased flow and near-bed acoustic backscatter. During these events temperature fluctuated by up to 9 °C within a day, which is the largest temperature variability as measured so far in a cold-water coral habitat. Warm events, related to Gulf Stream meanders, had the duration of roughly one week and the current during these events was directed to the NNE. The consequences of such events must be significant given the strong effects of temperature on the metabolism of cold-water corals. Furthermore, elevated acoustic backscatter values and high mass fluxes were also recorded during these events, indicating a second stressor that may affect the corals. The abrasive nature of sand in combination with strong currents might sand blast the corals. We conclude that cold-water corals near Cape Lookout live under extreme conditions that limit mound growth at present.