bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reactive Arthritis and Other Musculoskeletal Sequelae Following an Outbreak of Salmonella hadar in Castellon, Spain
Authors: ARNEDO-PENA ALBERTO , BELTRÁN-FABREGAT JUAN , VILA-PASTOR BARTOLOMÉ , TIRADO-BALAGUER MARIA DOLORES , HERRERO-CAROT CONCEPCIÓN , BELLIDO-BLASCO JUAN BAUTISTA , ROMEU-GARCIA MARIA ANGELES , SAFONT-ADSUARA LOURDES , PAC-SA MARIA ROSARIO , GUILLEN-GRIMA FRANCISCO
Published: June 2010

Objective.

In 2005 a large outbreak of Salmonella hadar occurred in Spain following the consumption of commercial precooked roast chicken. We estimated the incidence and risk factors for reactive arthritis (ReA) and other musculoskeletal sequelae in the patients of this outbreak in 2 health departments of Castellon province.

Methods.

A prospective cohort study of the patients and their families was carried out. Clinical infection with Salmonella was considered as the exposure factor. The cohort was studied for ReA symptoms using a telephone questionnaire. Telephone interviews or medical examinations of subjects with musculoskeletal symptoms were conducted by a rheumatologist. Robust Poisson regression models were used in the analysis.

Results.

From the cohort of 262 people, 248 (94.7%) participated in the telephone survey, 155 with clinical salmonellosis (infected), 78 noninfected, and 15 with some symptoms but not clinical salmonellosis. One hundred one infected patients (65%) reported musculoskeletal symptoms, compared to 19 noninfected (24%) (adjusted relative risk = 2.60, 95% CI 1.73–3.90). Of the infected group, 16 ReA (incidence 10%, 95% CI 6.0–16.2), 7 enthesopathies, and 2 arthralgias were detected, and zero in the noninfected group. The risk factors for ReA were age, weight loss, and duration of diarrhea. Antibiotic treatment for the infection protected against symptoms of peripheral or axial arthritis (adjusted relative risk = 0.73, 95% CI 0.55–0.98).

Conclusion.

The incidence of ReA and musculoskeletal symptoms after the infection was high. The use of antibiotics for S. hadar infection offered some protection against musculoskeletal symptoms.
Elevated Cerebral Blood Flow and Volume in Systemic Lupus Measured by Dynamic Susceptibility Contrast Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: GASPAROVIC CHARLES M. , ROLDAN CARLOS A. , SIBBITT WILMER L. , QUALLS CLIFFORD R. , MULLINS PAUL G. , SHARRAR JANEEN M. , YAMAMOTO J. JEREMY , BOCKHOLT H. JEREMY
Published: June 2010

Objective.

Studies that have examined abnormalities in cerebral blood flow (CBF) in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) reported CBF relative to a region assumed to be normal in the brain. We examined the absolute differences in both regional CBF and cerebral blood volume (CBV) between patients with SLE and healthy controls.

Methods.

CBF and CBV were measured with dynamic susceptibility contrast (DSC) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a technique that provides an alternative to radionuclide perfusion studies and permits quantitative anatomic, CBF, and CBV imaging in a single scanning session. CBF and CBV were measured in lesions and in normal-appearing tissue in the major cerebral and subcortical brain regions. Unlike most perfusion studies in SLE, CBF and CBV values were not normalized to a region of the brain assumed to be healthy.

Results.

CBF and CBV within MRI-visible lesions were markedly reduced relative to surrounding normal-appearing white matter. CBF and CBV in normal-appearing tissue were both higher in SLE patient groups, with or without lesions, relative to the control group.

Conclusion.

DSC MRI, without normalization to a region presumed to be healthy, revealed that CBF and CBV in normal-appearing tissue in patients with SLE was higher than CBF and CBV in controls. Since this finding was made in subgroups of patients with and without lesions, the higher CBF and CBV appear to precede lesion pathology.
Rheumatoid Arthritis in a North American Native Population: Longitudinal Followup and Comparison with a White Population
Authors: PESCHKEN CHRISTINE A. , HITCHON CAROL A. , ROBINSON DAVID B. , SMOLIK IRENE , BARNABE CHERYL R. , PREMATILAKE SURAJ , EL-GABALAWY HANI S.
Published: June 2010

Objective.

To describe differences in phenotype and outcomes in North American Native (NAN) patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) followed prospectively and compared to white patients with RA.

Methods.

Patients from a single academic center were followed over 20 years using a custom database. Data included diagnoses, year of disease onset, ethnicity, modified Health Assessment Questionnaire (mHAQ) score, patient and physician global scores, tender and swollen joint counts, treatment, serology, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). Records of all white (n = 1315) and NAN (n = 481) patients with RA were abstracted. Cumulative treatment data and clinical measures were compared.

Results.

Disease duration was longer in white patients compared to NAN patients (16 ± 11 vs 14 ± 10 years, respectively; p = 0.03). Onset age was 34 years for NAN patients and 43 years for white patients (p < 0.001). NAN patients were more frequently positive for rheumatoid factor (89% vs 74%; p < 0.001) and antinuclear antibody (57% vs 21%; p < 0.001). Although mean tender joint counts and swollen joint counts were similar, NAN patients had higher Lansbury scores (weighted joint count; 66.5 vs 49.7; p < 0.001), mHAQ scores (1.1 vs 0.9; p = 0.001), and ESR (31 vs 25 mm/h; p < 0.012). NAN patients had more frequent knee (53% vs 34%; p < 0.001) and elbow (62% vs 48%; p = 0.007) involvement. Compared to white patients, NAN patients took a higher lifetime number of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (3.2 ± 1.9 vs 2.2 ± 1.7; p < 0.001), had more combination therapy (38% vs 29%; p = 0.002), and had more frequent prednisone use (55% vs 39%; p < 0.001).

Conclusion.

Compared to white patients, NAN patients with RA develop disease earlier, are more frequently seropositive, have greater large joint involvement, and greater disease burden, although treatment is more aggressive. These differences are present early and persist throughout the disease course.
Enthesitis and Related Changes in the Knees in Seronegative Spondyloarthropathies and Skin Psoriasis: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Case-Control Study
Authors: EMAD YASSER , RAGAB YASSER , BASSYOUNI IMAN , MOAWAYH OMAR , FAWZY MAGDY , SAAD AHMED , ABOU-ZEID ALAA , RASKER JOHANNES J.
Published: June 2010

Objective.

To describe enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features and characteristic entheseal changes in the knees in patients with seronegative spondyloarthropathy (SpA).

Methods.

The 56 patients included 30 with psoriatic arthritis, 5 with ankylosing spondylitis, 5 with reactive arthritis, 5 with ulcerative colitis (UC), 5 with Crohn’s disease, and another 6 with skin psoriasis. Controls were 20 healthy subjects without knee complaints. MRI was performed in all participants, emphasizing entheseal sites.

Results.

Both knees were studied in 45 (80.3%) patients and one knee in 11 (19.6%). MRI showed evidence of bone marrow edema in 13 (23.2%) patients, cartilaginous erosions in 18 (32.1%), and bone erosions in 9 (16.1%). Enthesitis was found in medial collateral ligaments in 18 (32.1%), lateral collateral ligaments in 8 (14.3%), posterior cruciate ligaments in 3 (5.35%), patellar tendon in 18 (32.1%), biceps femoris insertion in 3 (5.35%), medial patellofemoral ligaments (MPFL) in 5 (8.9%), and lateral patellofemoral ligament in 1 patient (1.8%). In the UC and Crohn’s patients (n = 10), 2 had bone erosions and 5 had enthesitis. In the skin psoriasis group (n = 6), one had bone marrow edema; enthesitis was detected in 5 at the patellar tendon insertion and in one in the MPFL. Entheseal-related changes were absent in the controls.

Conclusion.

This is the first study showing entheseal-related changes in the knees in patients with inflammatory bowel disease or skin psoriasis without clinical arthritis. Enthesitis of the knee on MRI may be an early finding in SpA.
Ovalbumin-BasedPorous Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Regeneration
Authors: Farrar Gabrielle , Barone Justin , Morgan Abby
Published: June 2010

Cell differentiation on glutaraldehyde cross-linked ovalbumin scaffolds was the main focus of this research. Salt leaching and freeze drying were used to create a three-dimensional porous structure. Average pore size was 147.84±40.36 μm and 111.79±30.71 μm for surface and cross sectional area, respectively. Wet compressive strength and elastic modulus were 6.8±3.6 kPa. Average glass transition temperature was 320.1±1.4°C. Scaffolds were sterilized with ethylene oxide prior to seeding MC3T3-E1 cells. Cells were stained with DAPI and Texas red to determine morphology and proliferation. Average cell numbers increased between 4-hour- and 96-hour-cultured scaffolds. Alkaline phosphatase and osteocalcin levels were measured at 3, 7, 14, and 21 days. Differentiation studies showed an increase in osteocalcin at 21 days and alkaline phosphatase levels at 14 days, both indicating differentiation occurred. This work demonstrated the use of ovalbumin scaffolds for a bone tissue engineering application.
Primary Papillary Mucinous Adenocarcinoma of the Ureter Mimicking Genitourinary Tuberculosis
Authors: Gulwani Hanni , Jain Aruna
Published: June 2010

Primary adenocarcinomas of the renal pelvis and ureter are rare and account for less than 1% of all malignancies at this site. We report a case of primary papillary mucinous adenocarcinoma of the ureter that clinically mimicked genitourinary tuberculosis. Early diagnosis is important for the better outcome.
Some Immunohormonal Changes in Experimentally Pregnant Toxemic Goats
Authors: Hefnawy Abd-Elghany , Youssef Seham , Shousha Saad
Published: June 2010

Pregnancy toxemia was induced in nine pregnant goat does with twins by the stress of fasting with access to water in late pregnancy to investigate the effect of pregnancy toxemia on immunoglobulins (IgA, IgM, and IgG), cortisol, insulin, thyroid, and growth hormones and their correlations with the plasma levels of glucose andβ-Hydroxybutyrate. Plasma samples were collected at 0, 12, 24, 36, 48, and 72 hours after induction of pregnancy toxemia. The result revealed that experimental animals developed neurological findings with convulsions and acetone odor from the mouth with recumbency after 72 hours. Laboratory findings showed a significant increase inβ-Hydroxybutyrate, cortisol, and insulin while there were significant decreases in glucose, thyroid, and immunoglobulins (IgA, IgM, and IgG). Plasma glucose concentrations had significant negative correlations withβ-hydroxybutyrate, cortisol, and insulin while the correlations were significantly positive with immunoglobulins and thyroid hormone. Plasmaβ-hydroxybutyrate concentration was significantly positively correlated with cortisol and negatively correlated with immunoglobulins, insulin, and thyroid hormone. From this study we can conclude that pregnancy toxemia might affect humoral immune responses as well as insulin, cortisol, and thyroid hormones. Moreover, insulin might have a compensatory role to increase suppressive effect on ketogenesis in experimentally pregnant toxemic goats.
Feline T-Cell Receptor V- and J-Region Sequences Retrieved from the Trace Archive and from Transcriptome Analysis of Cats
Authors: Weiss Alexander Thomas Andreas , Hecht Werner , Reinacher Manfred
Published: June 2010

The variable domains of antigen receptors are very diverse and assembled in a modular system from a number of V-, D-, and J-region genes. Here we describe additional variants of V- and J-region genes of the feline T-cell receptor (TRG) as well as the corresponding RSSs retrieved from Trace Archive of feline genomic sequences. Additionally, an unusually recombined TRGV-domain containing a partial inverted repeat of the included J-region and a short interspersed element of the CAN-SINE family located within the feline T-cell receptor locus are also described.
A recursive presentation for Mihailova’s subgroup
Authors: Bogopolski Oleg , Ventura Enric
Published: June 2010

An explicit recursive presentation for Mihailova’s subgroup M(H) of Fn × Fn corresponding to a finite, concise and Peiffer aspherical presentation H = < x1, … , xn | R1, … , Rm > is given. This partially answers a question of R. I. Grigorchuk. As a corollary, we construct a finitely generated recursively presented orbit undecidable subgroup of Aut(F3).
The ergodic theory of free group actions: entropy and the $f$-invariant
Authors: Bowen Lewis
Published: June 2010

Previous work introduced two measure-conjugacy invariants: the f-invariant (for actions of free groups) and Σ-entropy (for actions of sofic groups). The purpose of this paper is to show that the f-invariant is essentially a special case of Σ-entropy. There are two applications: the f-invariant is invariant under group automorphisms and there is a uniform lower bound on the f-invariant of a factor in terms of the original system.
The free group of rank 2 is a limit of Thompson’s group $F$
Authors: Brin Matthew G.
Published: June 2010

We show that the free group of rank 2 is a limit of 2-markings of Thompson’s group

F

in the space of all 2-marked groups. More specifically, we find a sequence of generating pairs for

F

so that as one goes out the sequence, the length of the shortest relation satisfied by the generating pair goes to infinity.
Abelian state-closed subgroups of automorphisms of $m$-ary trees
Authors: Brunner Andrew M. , Sidki Said N.
Published: June 2010

The group

\mathcal{A}_m

of automorphisms of a one-rooted

m

-ary tree admits a diagonal monomorphism which we denote by

x

. Let

A

be an abelian state-closed (or self-similar) subgroup of

\mathcal{A}_m

. We prove that the combined diagonal and tree-topological closure

A^*

of

A

is additively a finitely presented

ℤ_m

[[

x

]]-module, where

ℤ_m

is the ring of

m

-adic integers. Moreover, if

A^*

is torsion-free then it is a finitely generated pro-

m

group. Furthermore, the group

A

splits over its torsion subgroup. We study in detail the case where

A^*

is additively a cyclic

ℤ_m

[[

x

]]-module, and we show that when m is a prime number then

A^*

is conjugate by a tree automorphism to one of two specific types of groups.
Quasi-isometries between tubular groups
Authors: Cashen Christopher H.
Published: June 2010

We give a method of constructing maps between tubular groups inductively according to a finite set of strategies. This map will be a quasi-isometry exactly when the set of strategies satisfies certain consistency criteria. Conversely, if there exists a quasi-isometry between tubular groups, then there is a consistent set of strategies for building a quasi-isometry between them.

For two given tubular groups there are only finitely many candidate sets of strategies to consider, so it is possible in finite time to either produce a consistent set of strategies or decide that such a set does not exist. Consequently, there is an algorithm that in finite time decides whether or not two tubular groups are quasi-isometric.
Special groups with an elementary hierarchy are virtually free-by-$ℤ$
Authors: Hagen Mark F. , Wise Daniel T.
Published: June 2010

Let

G

be a group with a hierarchy whose edge groups at each level are cyclic. We show that when

G

is also word-hyperbolic, then

G

is virtually free-by-cyclic. In particular, this holds for groups splitting as graphs of free groups with cyclic edge groups unless they have Baumslag–Solitar subgroups that are not virtually products.
Isotope effect in the formation of H2 from H2CO studied at the atmospheric simulation chamber SAPHIR
Authors: Röckmann T. , Walter S. , Bohn B. , Wegener R. , Spahn H. , Brauers T. , Tillmann R. , Schlosser E. , Koppmann R. , Rohrer F.
Published: June 2010

Abstract. Formaldehyde of known, near-natural isotopic composition was photolyzed in the SAPHIR atmosphere simulation chamber under ambient conditions. The isotopic composition of the product H2 was used to determine the isotope effects in formaldehyde photolysis. The experiments are sensitive to the molecular photolysis channel, and the radical channel has only an indirect effect and cannot be effectively constrained. The molecular channel kinetic isotope effect KIEmol, the ratio of photolysis frequencies j(HCHO→CO+H2)/j(HCDO→CO+HD) at surface pressure, is determined to be KIEmol=1.63−0.046+0.038. This is similar to the kinetic isotope effect for the total removal of HCHO from a recent relative rate experiment (KIEtot=1.58±0.03), which indicates that the KIEs in the molecular and radical photolysis channels at surface pressure (≈100 kPa) may not be as different as described previously in the literature.
The importance of transport model uncertainties for the estimation of CO2 sources and sinks using satellite measurements
Authors: Houweling S. , Aben I. , Breon F.-M. , Chevallier F. , Deutscher N. , Engelen R. , Gerbig C. , Griffith D. , Hungershoefer K. , Macatangay R. , Marshall J. , Notholt J. , Peters W. , Serrar S.
Published: June 2010

Abstract. This study presents a synthetic model intercomparison to investigate the importance of transport model errors for estimating the sources and sinks of CO2 using satellite measurements. The experiments were designed for testing the potential performance of the proposed CO2 lidar A-SCOPE, but also apply to other space borne missions that monitor total column CO2. The participating transport models IFS, LMDZ, TM3, and TM5 were run in forward and inverse mode using common CO2 fluxes and initial concentrations. Simulated column averaged CO2 (xCO2) mixing ratios vary between the models by σ=0.5 ppm over the continents and σ=0.27 ppm over sea. A variable, but overall quite encouraging agreement is found in comparison with FTS measurements at Park Falls, Darwin, Spitsbergen, and Bremen. Despite the fact that the models agree on average on the sub-ppm level, these modest differences nevertheless lead to significant discrepancies in the inverted fluxes of 0.1 Pg C/yr per 106 km2 over land and 0.03 Pg C/yr per 106 km2 over the ocean. These transport model induced flux uncertainties exceed the target requirement that was formulated for the A-SCOPE mission of 0.02 Pg C/yr per 106 km2, and could also limit the overall performance of other CO2 missions such as GOSAT. It is concluded that to make use of the remote sensing technique for quantifying the sources and sinks of CO2 not only requires highly accurate satellite instruments, but also puts stringent requirements on the performance of atmospheric transport models. Further development of these models should receive high priority.
Formic acid above the Jungfraujoch during 1985–2007: observed variability, seasonality, but no long-term background evolution
Authors: Zander R. , Duchatelet P. , Mahieu E. , Demoulin P. , Roland G. , Servais C. , Vander Auwera J. , Perrin A. , Rinsland C. P. , Crutzen P.
Published: June 2010

Abstract. This paper reports on daytime total vertical column abundances of formic acid (HCOOH) above the Northern mid-latitude, high altitude Jungfraujoch station (Switzerland; 46.5° N, 8.0° E, 3580 m altitude). The columns were derived from the analysis of infrared solar observations regularly performed with high spectral resolution Fourier transform spectrometers during over 1537 days between September 1985 and September 2007. The investigation was based on the spectrometric fitting of five spectral intervals, one encompassing the HCOOH ν6 band Q branch at 1105 cm−1, and four additional ones allowing to optimally account for critical temperature-sensitive or timely changing interferences by other atmospheric gases, in particular HDO, CCl2F2 and CHClF2. The main results derived from the 22 yr long database indicate that the free tropospheric burden of HCOOH above the Jungfraujoch undergoes important short-term daytime variability, diurnal and seasonal modulations, inter-annual anomalies, but no statistically significant long-term background change at the 1-sigma level. A major progress in the remote determination of the atmospheric HCOOH columns reported here has resulted from the adoption of new, improved absolute spectral line intensities for the infrared ν6 band of trans-formic acid, resulting in retrieved free tropospheric loadings being about a factor two smaller than if derived with previous spectroscopic parameters. Implications of this significant change with regard to earlier remote measurements of atmospheric formic acid and comparison with relevant Northern mid-latitude in situ findings will be assessed critically. Sparse HCOOH model predictions will also be evoked.
Global evaluation of the Collection 5 MODIS dark-target aerosol products over land
Authors: Levy R. C. , Remer L. A. , Kleidman R. G. , Mattoo S. , Ichoku C. , Kahn R. , Eck T. F.
Published: June 2010

Abstract. NASA's MODIS sensors have been observing the Earth from polar orbit, from Terra since early 2000 and from Aqua since mid 2002. We have applied a consistent retrieval and processing algorithm to both sensors to derive the Collection 5 (C005) dark-target aerosol products over land. Here, we co-locate the MODIS field of view aerosol retrievals with Level 2 AERONET sunphotometer measurements at over 300 sites, and find 85 000 matched pairs that represent mutually cloud-free conditions. From these collocations, we validate the total aerosol optical depth (AOD or τ) product, and define the expected error (EE) as ±(0.05+0.15τ). Since we find that >66% (one standard deviation) of MODIS AOD values compare to AERONET within EE, we can consider global AOD to be validated. However, MODIS does not compare as well to AERONET at particular sites and seasons. There are residual biases that are correlated with Ångstrom exponent, scattering angles, and scene reflectance conditions, resulting from assumptions about the aerosol optical properties and surface conditions that are not accurate everywhere. Although we conclude that the AOD over land is globally quantitative, MODIS-derived parameters of aerosol size over land (Ångström exponent, fine AOD) are not. When separating data into those derived from Terra versus those from Aqua, scatterplots to AERONET are nearly indistinguishable. However, while Aqua is stable, Terra shows a slight trend in its bias with respect to AERONET; overestimating (by ~0.005) before 2004, and underestimating by similar magnitude after. This suggests small, but significant calibration uncertainties of <2%, which could lead to spurious long-term aerosol trends.
Early results from the Whisper instrument on Cluster: an overview
Authors: Décréau P. M. E. , Fergeau P. , Krasnoselskikh V. , Le Guirriec E. , Lévêque M. , Martin Ph. , Randriamboarison O. , Rauch J. L. , Sené F. X. , Séran H. C. , Trotignon J. G. , Canu P. , Cornilleau N. , de Féraudy H. , Alleyne H. , Yearby K. , Mögensen P. B. , Gustafsson G. , André M. , Gurnett D. C. , Darrouzet F. , Lemaire J. , Harvey C. C. , Travnicek P. ,   Whisper experimenters (Table 1)
Published: June 2010

Abstract. The Whisper instrument yields two data sets: (i) the electron density determined via the relaxation sounder, and (ii) the spectrum of natural plasma emissions in the frequency band 2–80 kHz. Both data sets allow for the three-dimensional exploration of the magnetosphere by the Cluster mission. The total electron density can be derived unambiguously by the sounder in most magnetospheric regions, provided it is in the range of 0.25 to 80 cm-3 . The natural emissions already observed by earlier spacecraft are fairly well measured by the Whisper instrument, thanks to the digital technology which largely overcomes the limited telemetry allocation. The natural emissions are usually related to the plasma frequency, as identified by the sounder, and the combination of an active sounding operation and a passive survey operation provides a time resolution for the total density determination of 2.2 s in normal telemetry mode and 0.3 s in burst mode telemetry, respectively. Recorded on board the four spacecraft, the Whisper density data set forms a reference for other techniques measuring the electron population. We give examples of Whisper density data used to derive the vector gradient, and estimate the drift velocity of density structures. Wave observations are also of crucial interest for studying small-scale structures, as demonstrated in an example in the fore-shock region. Early results from the Whisper instrument are very encouraging, and demonstrate that the four-point Cluster measurements indeed bring a unique and completely novel view of the regions explored.Key words. Space plasma physics (instruments and techniques; discontinuities, general or miscellaneous)
Combined wind profiler-weather radar observations of orographic rainband around Kyushu, Japan in the Baiu season
Authors: Umemoto Y. , Teshiba M. , Shibagaki Y. , Hashiguchi H. , Yamanaka M. D. , Fukao S. ,   X-BAIU-99,   X-BAIU-02 observational groups
Published: June 2010

Abstract. A special observation campaign (X-BAIU), using various instruments (wind profilers, C-band weather radars, X-band Doppler radars, rawinsondes, etc.), was carried out in Kyushu (western Japan) during the Baiu season, from 1998 to 2002. In the X-BAIU-99 and -02 observations, a line-shaped orographic rainband extending northeastward from the Koshikijima Islands appeared in the low-level strong wind with warm-moist airs. The weather radar observation indicated that the rainband was maintained for 11h. The maximum length and width of the rainband observed in 1999 was ~200km and ~20km, respectively. The rainband observed in 2002 was not so developed compared with the case in 1999. The Froude number averaged from sea level to the top of the Koshikijima Islands (~600m) was large (>1), and the lifting condensation level was below the tops of the Koshikijima Islands. Thus, it is suggested that the clouds organizing the rainband are formed by the triggering of the mountains on the airflow passing over them. The vertical profile of horizontal wind in/around the rainband was investigated in the wind profiler observations. In the downdraft region 60km from the Koshikijima Islands, strong wind and its clockwise rotation with increasing height was observed below 3km altitude. In addition, a strong wind component perpendicular to the rainband was observed when the rainband was well developed. These wind behaviors were related to the evolution of the rainband.
Early VLF perturbations observed in association with elves
Authors: Mika Á. , Haldoupis C. , Neubert T. , Su H. T. , Hsu R. R. , Steiner R. J. , Marshall R. A.
Published: June 2010

Abstract. VLF remote sensing is used to detect lower-ionospheric electron density changes associated with a certain type of transient luminous events known as elves. Both ground- and satellite-based observations of elves are analysed in relation to VLF data acquired at various receiver sites in Europe, the United States and Antarctica. Ground-based observations were performed during the EuroSprite2003 campaign, when five elves were captured by low-light cameras located in the Pyrenees. Analysis of VLF recordings from Crete shows early VLF perturbations accompanying all of the elves. A large dataset consisting of elves captured by the ISUAL (Imager of Sprites and Upper Atmospheric Lightning) payload on Taiwan's FORMOSAT-2 satellite over Europe and North America has also been analysed. Early/fast VLF perturbations were found to accompany some of the elves observed over Europe. However, no VLF perturbations were detected in relation to the elves observed by ISUAL over North America. The present analysis – based on the largest database of optical elve observations used for VLF studies so far – constitutes evidence of processes initiated by the lightning EMP (electromagnetic pulse) causing electron density changes in the lower ionosphere in line with theoretical predictions. It also proves that sub-ionospheric electron density changes associated with elves can intrude to lower heights and thus perturb VLF transmissions. The possibility of VLF detection, however, depends on several factors, e.g., the distance of the elve from the receiver and the transmitter–receiver great circle path (GCP), the altitude of the ionised region and the characteristics of the VLF transmitter, as well as the EMP energy, which occasionally may be sufficient to cause optical emissions but not ionisation.
Characteristics of the near-surface turbulence during a bora event
Authors: Večenaj Ž. , Belušić D. , Grisogono B.
Published: June 2010

Abstract. During a bora event, the turbulence is strongly developed in the lee of the Dinaric Alps at the eastern Adriatic coast. In order to study its properties, a 3-D ultrasonic anemometer operating at 4 Hz sampling frequency was placed in the town of Senj at 13 m above ground. The strong bora case that occurred on 7 January and lasted till 11 January 2006 is analyzed here. This data set is used for evaluation of the turbulent kinetic energy, TKE, and its dissipation rate, ε. The computation of ε is performed using the inertial dissipation method. The empirical length scale parameter for this event is estimated with respect to ε and TKE. Some considerations about defining turbulent perturbations of the bora wind velocity are also pointed out.
Lipid biomarkers in Holocene and glacial sediments from ancient Lake Ohrid (Macedonia, Albania)
Authors: Holtvoeth J. , Vogel H. , Wagner B. , Wolff G. A.
Published: June 2010

Abstract. Organic matter preserved in Lake Ohrid sediments originates from aquatic and terrestrial sources. Its variable composition reflects climate-controlled changes in the lake basin's hydrology and related organic matter export, i.e. changes in primary productivity, terrestrial plant matter input and soil erosion. Here, we present first results from lipid biomarker investigations of Lake Ohrid sediments from two near-shore settings: Site Lz1120 near the southern shore, with flat lands nearby and probably influenced by river discharge, and site Co1202 which is close to the steep eastern slopes. Variable proportions of terrestrial n-alkanoic acids and n-alkanols as well as compositional changes of ω-hydroxy acids document differences in soil organic matter supply between the sites and during different climate stages (glacial, Holocene, 8.2 ka cooling event). Changes in the vegetation cover are suggested by changes in the dominant chain length of terrestrial n-alkanols. Effective microbial degradation of labile organic matter and in situ contribution of organic matter derived from the microbes themselves are both evident in the sediments. We found evidence for anoxic conditions within the photic zone by detecting epicholestanol from sulphur-oxidising phototrophic bacteria and for the influence of an early human community from the occurrence of coprostanol, a biomarker for human and cattle faeces, in an early Holocene sample. This study illustrates the potential of lipid biomarkers for future environmental reconstructions using one of Europe's oldest continental climate archives, Lake Ohrid.
Evolution of ancient Lake Ohrid: a tectonic perspective
Authors: Hoffmann N. , Reicherter K. , Fernández-Steeger T. , Grützner C.
Published: June 2010

Abstract. Lake Ohrid Basin is a graben structure situated in the Dinarides at the border of the Former Yugoslavian Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) and Albania. It hosts one of the oldest lakes in Europe and is characterized by a basin and range-like geological setting together with the half-graben basins of Korca, Erseka and Debar. The basin is surrounded by Palaeozoic metamorphics in the northeast and north and Mesozoic ultramafic, carbonatic and magmatic rocks in the east, northwest, west and south. Palaeocene to Pliocene units are present in the southwest. With the basin development, Neogene sediments from Pliocene to recent deposited in the lows. Three major deformation phases lead to the basin formation: A) NW–SE shortening from Late Cretaceous to Miocene; B) uplift and diminishing compression during Messinian - Pliocene; C) vertical uplift and (N)E–(S)W extension from Pliocene to recent. Neotectonic activity of the study area concentrates on N–S trending normal faults that flank the Ohrid Basin on the east and west. Seismic activity with moderate to strong events is documented during the last 2000 y; the seismic hazard level is among the highest of the Balkan Peninsula. Activity of the youngest faults is evidenced by earthquake data and field observations. Morphotectonic features like a wind-gap, fault scarps, a stepped series of active normal faults, deformed palaeosols, and fault-related hydrothermal activity are preserved around Lake Ohrid and allow delineating the tectonic history. It is shown that the Lake Ohrid Basin can be characterized as a seismogenic landscape. This paper presents a tectonic history of the Lake Ohrid Basin and describes tectonic features that are preserved in the recent landscape. The analysis of morphotectonic features is used to derive the deformation history. The stratigraphy of the area is summarized and concentrates on the main units.
Seasonal prediction of winter extreme precipitation over Canada by support vector regression
Authors: Zeng Z. , Hsieh W. W. , Shabbar A. , Burrows W. R.
Published: June 2010

Abstract. For forecasting the maximum 5-d accumulated precipitation over the winter season at lead times of 3, 6, 9 and 12 months over Canada from 1950 to 2007, two nonlinear and two linear regression models were used, where the models were support vector regression (SVR) (nonlinear and linear versions), nonlinear Bayesian neural network (BNN) and multiple linear regression (MLR). The 118 stations were grouped into six geographic regions by K-means clustering. For each region, the leading principal components of the winter extreme precipitation were the predictands. Potential predictors included quasi-global sea surface temperature anomalies and 500 hPa geopotential height anomalies over the Northern Hemisphere, as well as six climate indices (the Niño-3.4 region sea surface temperature, the North Atlantic Oscillation, the Pacific-North American teleconnection, the Pacific Decadal Oscillation, the Scandinavia pattern, and the East Atlantic pattern). The results showed that in general the two robust SVR models tended to have better forecast skills than the two non-robust models (MLR and BNN), and the nonlinear SVR model tended to forecast slightly better than the linear SVR model. Among the six regions, the Eastern Prairies region displayed the highest forecast skills, and the Arctic region the second highest. The strongest nonlinearity was manifested over the Eastern Prairies and the weakest nonlinearity over the Arctic.
The influence of changes in glacier extent and surface elevation on modeled mass balance
Authors: Paul F.
Published: June 2010

Abstract. Glaciers are widely recognized as unique demonstration objects for climate change impacts, mostly due to the strong change of glacier length in response to small climatic changes. However, glacier mass balance as the direct response to the annual atmospheric conditions can be better interpreted in meteorological terms. When the climatic signal is deduced from long-term mass balance data, changes in glacier geometry (i.e. surface extent and elevation) must be considered as such adjustments form an essential part of the glacier reaction to new climatic conditions. In this study, a set of modeling experiments is performed to assess the influence of changes in glacier geometry on mass balance for constant climatic conditions. The calculations are based on a simplified distributed energy/mass balance model in combination with information on glacier extent and surface elevation for the years 1850 and 1973/1985 for a larger sample of glaciers in the Swiss Alps. The results reveal that about 50–70% of the glacier reaction to climate change (here a one degree increase in temperature) is "hidden" in the geometric adjustment, while only 30–50% can be measured as the long-term mean mass balance. Thereby, changes in glacier extent alone have an even stronger effect, but they are partly compensated for by a lowered surface elevation which gives on average a slightly more negative balance despite an increase of topographic shading. In view of several additional reinforcement feedbacks that are observed in periods of strong glacier decline, it seems that the climatic interpretation of mass balance data is also rather complex.
Storywork: Autobiographical learning in later life
Authors: Randall William
Published: June 2010

By honoring the narrative complexity of personal identity, adult educators can assist older persons in the process of autobiographical learning, that is, learning about themselves and from themselves by reflecting on the stories through which they have defined themselves across the years.
Composing narratives and opening spaces—exploring intercultural and gender themes through dialogue
Authors: Witherell Carol Smith
Published: June 2010

This chapter describes the power of narrative and voice in explorations of gender and culture within a graduate seminar enrolled by educators and counselors.
Editors' conclusion
Authors: Rossiter Marsha , Clark M. Carolyn
Published: June 2010

We see a profound connection between narrative, claiming power, and transformational learning.
Thinner, Smaller, Faster: IR Techniques To Probe the Functionality of Biological and Biomimetic Systems
Authors: Ataka Kenichi , Kottke Tilman , Heberle Joachim
Published: June 2010

New techniques in vibrational spectroscopy are promising for the study of biological samples as they provide exquisite spatial and/or temporal resolution with the benefit of minimal perturbation of the system during observation. In this Minireview we showcase the power of modern infrared techniques when applied to biological and biomimetic systems. Examples will be presented on how conformational changes in peptides can be traced with femtosecond resolution and nanometer sensitivity by 2D IR spectroscopy, and how surface‐enhanced infrared difference absorption spectroscopy can be used to monitor the effect of the membrane potential on a single proton‐transfer step in an integral membrane protein. Vibrational spectra of monolayers of molecules at basically any interface can be recorded with sum‐frequency generation, which is strictly surface‐sensitive. Chemical images are recorded by applying scanning near‐field infrared microscopy at lateral resolutions better than 50 nm.
In Pursuit of a Competitive Target: Total Synthesis of the Antibiotic Kendomycin
Authors: Martin Harry J. , Magauer Thomas , Mulzer Johann
Published: June 2010

Kendomycin is a novel polyketide having a unique quinone methide ansa structure and an impressive biological profile. Herein we provide a chronological overview of the synthetic work towards the title compound. Thus far, over a period of about eight years, eight groups worldwide have published on their synthetic efforts resulting in five total syntheses, one formal synthesis, and a number of fragment syntheses. Most approaches roughly mimic the biogenetic pathway, starting with an aromatic polyphenol subunit to which a polyketide chain is attached. Subsequent key steps include macrocyclization and the formation of the densely substituted tetrahydropyran ring, and then a late‐stage oxidation and lactol formation.
Effect of shearing stress on reflective properties of cholesteric liquid crystal films
Authors: Xiao Jiumei , Cao Hui , Zhao Dongyu , Yang Huai
Published: June 2010

Effect of shearing stress on reflective properties of cholesteric liquid crystal films is studied in this article. Heating up a glassy siloxane cyclic side‐chain oligomer within the temperature range of the cholesteric (Ch) phase leads to the availability of its planar texture. Then, the received cholesteric liquid crystalline with planar texture is reoriented by shearing force quickly after it is taken off from the heater. The pitches change, and a pitch difference is induced by inhomogeneous distribution of stress. The SEM image indicates the pitch difference perpendicular to the substrates, and the results of transmission spectra show that the reflection bandwidth of the film obtained is broadened, and the central reflection wavelength of the reflective film moves. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Experimental study of the spontaneous thermal homopolymerization of methyl andn‐butyl acrylate
Authors: Srinivasan Sriraj , Kalfas George , Petkovska Violeta I. , Bruni Christopher , Grady Michael C. , Soroush Masoud
Published: June 2010

This article presents an experimental study of the spontaneous thermal homopolymerization of methyl acrylate (MA) andn‐butyl acrylate (nBA) in the absence of any known added initiators at 120 and 140°C in a batch reactor. The effects of the solvent type, oxygen level, and reaction temperature on the monomer conversion and polymer average molecular weights were investigated. Three solvents, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO; polar, aprotic), cyclohexanone (polar, aprotic), and xylene (nonpolar) were used. The spontaneous thermal polymerization of MA andnBA in DMSO resulted in a lower conversion and higher average molecular weights in comparison to polymerization in cyclohexanone and xylene under the same conditions. The highest final conversion of both monomers was obtained in cyclohexanone. The high polymerization rate in cyclohexanone was most likely due to an additional initiation mechanism where cyclohexanone complexed with the monomer to generate free radicals. Bubbling air through the mixture led to a higher monomer conversion during the early stage of the polymerization and a lower polymer average molecular weight in xylene and cyclohexanone; this indicated the existence of a distinct behavior between the air‐ and nitrogen‐purged systems. Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight analysis of the polymer samples taken from nitrogen‐bubbled batches did not reveal fragments from initiating impurities. On the basis of the identified families of peaks, monomer self‐initiation is suggested as the principal mode of initiation in the spontaneous thermal polymerization of MA andnBA at temperatures above 100°C. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Total Synthesis, Assignment of the Absolute Stereochemistry, and Structure‐Activity Relationship Studies of Subglutinols A and B
Authors: Kim Hyoungsu , Baker Joseph B. , Park Yongho , Park Hyung‐Bae , DeArmond Patrick D. , Kim Seong Hwan , Fitzgerald Michael C. , Lee Dong‐Sup , Hong Jiyong
Published: June 2010

Immunosuppressive drugs are used to prevent rejection of transplanted organs and treat autoimmune diseases. Clinically approved immunosuppressive drugs possess undesirable side effects, including acute neurological toxicity, chronic nephrotoxicity, and osteoporosis. As a result, considerable efforts have been devoted to the identification of immunosuppressive natural products that lack cytotoxicity and undesirable side effects on bone structure. Subglutinols A (1 a) and B (1 b) are diterpene pyrones isolated from Fusarium subglutinans. Compounds 1 a and 1 b are equipotent in the mixed lymphocyte reaction assay and thymocyte proliferation assay (IC50=0.1 μM). Owing to the lack of toxicity, 1 a and 1 b are expected to be promising new immunosuppressive drugs. Herein, we detail our efforts that have culminated in a stereoselective synthesis of 1 a and 1 b from the (S)‐(+)‐5‐methyl‐Wieland–Miescher ketone and determined their absolute stereochemistries. We also present initial biological data to show the great potential of 1 a as an immunosuppressive drug with dose‐dependent osteogenic activity.
Total Synthesis of (+)‐Dibromophakellin and (+)‐Dibromophakellstatin
Authors: Imaoka Takuya , Akimoto Takafumi , Iwamoto Osamu , Nagasawa Kazuo
Published: June 2010

A new method for the preparation of quaternary chiral aminals has been developed that employs an enamide‐type Overman rearrangement process. This methodology was applied to enantioselective total syntheses of (+)‐dibromophakellin and (+)‐dibromophakellstatin.
Accuracy of multidetector computed tomography in identifying poor prognostic factors in colonic cancer
Authors: Dighe S , Blake H , Koh M-D , Swift I , Arnaout A , Temple L , Barbachano Y , Brown G
Published: June 2010

Background

Recent neoadjuvant strategies for high-risk colonic tumours have renewed interest in accurate preoperative staging. The aim of this study was to validate prospectively the accuracy of multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) in stratifying patients into good and poor prognostic groups in a multicentre setting.

Methods

Staging MDCT scans of 84 patients with colonic cancer were reviewed by two independent radiologists and stratified into low-risk (T1/T2 and T3 with extramural tumour depth (EMD) of less than 5 mm) and high-risk (T3 with EMD of at least 5 mm and T4) tumours. Nodal status and extramural venous invasion (EMVI) were also assessed.

Results

The accuracy, sensitivity, specificity and positive predictive value of stratification by CT compared with histological examination was 74 (95 per cent confidence interval 64 to 82), 78 (65 to 87), 67 (49 to 81) and 81 (68 to 89) per cent respectively. Accuracy for detecting malignant lymph nodes and EMVI was 58 and 70 per cent respectively. The agreement for predicting prognostic stratification was moderate (κ = 0·54).

Conclusion

As the ability of CT to identify node status is poor, the depth of tumour invasion beyond the muscularis propria is the most accurate way to identify patients with a poor prognosis who may be suitable for neoadjuvant treatment.
Long-term results of laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding in patients lost to follow-up
Authors: te Riele W W , Boerma D , Wiezer M J , Borel Rinkes I H M , van Ramshorst B
Published: June 2010

Background

The aim of the study was to evaluate the results of laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) in patients lost to follow-up.

Methods

Patients lost to follow-up were identified from a consecutive cohort of 495 patients who underwent LAGB between November 1995 and September 2006. These patients were asked to return to follow-up and their actual weight was assessed.

Results

Of 93 patients lost to follow-up, 73 were motivated to reattend. Of these, 60 per cent (44 patients) had lost less than 25 per cent of excess weight, compared with 16·3 per cent (P < 0·001), 27·0 per cent (P < 0·001) and 42 per cent (P = 0·026) of patients after 2, 4 and 8 years of regular follow-up.

Conclusion

Patients lost to follow-up are more likely to have poor weight loss, emphasizing the importance of follow-up after LAGB. Outcome after surgery for morbid obesity should include patients lost to follow-up as a measure of overall success.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of sex differences in outcome after intervention for abdominal aortic aneurysm
Authors: Grootenboer N , van Sambeek M R H M , Arends L R , Hendriks J M , Hunink M G M , Bosch J L
Published: June 2010

Background

The aim of this study was to assess possible differences in mortality between men and women with an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) treated either by elective repair or following aneurysm rupture.

Methods

A systematic literature search was performed using the MEDLINE, Cochrane and Embase databases. Data were analysed by means of bivariate random-effects meta-analysis. Data were pooled and odds ratios (ORs) calculated for women compared with men.

Results

Sixty-one studies (516 118 patients) met the predetermined inclusion criteria. Twenty-six reported on elective open AAA repair, 21 on elective endovascular repair, 25 on open repair for ruptured AAA and one study on endovascular repair for ruptured AAA. Mortality rates for women compared with men were 7·6 versus 5·1 per cent (OR 1·28, 95 per cent confidence interval (c.i.) 1·09 to 1·49) for elective open repair, 2·9 versus 1·5 per cent (OR 2·41, 95 per cent c.i. 1·14 to 5·15) for elective endovascular repair, and 61·8 versus 42·2 per cent (OR 1·16, 95 per cent c.i. 0·97 to 1·37) in the group that had open repair for rupture. The group that had endovascular repair for ruptured AAA was too small for meaningful analysis.

Conclusion

Women with an AAA had a higher mortality rate following elective open and endovascular repair.