bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expensive Traditions: Energy Expenditure of Aleutian Geese in Traditional and Recently Colonized Habitats
Authors: MINI ANNE E. , BLACK JEFFREY M.
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT  In an effort to reduce goose depredation at a traditional spring migratory stopover site, private landowners implemented a coordinated hazing plan to scare Aleutian cackling geese (Branta hutchinsii leucopareia) from private lands to adjacent public pastures that were cultivated and set aside specifically for geese. Coincidentally, some Aleutian geese began using a new stopover site 150 km farther south in their spring migratory range; numbers at the new site continue to increase. We tested the idea that when their ability to acquire resources deteriorates geese are likely to seek improved foraging conditions, especially during spring migration when individuals strive to maximize nutrient stores and minimize energy expenditure. We quantified measures of goose foraging performance in traditional and new spring staging sites by calculating foraging opportunity, foraging effort, body condition, and daily energy expenditure. Geese staging at the site with higher levels of human disturbance had less foraging opportunity and, despite increased foraging effort and more nutritious food‐plants at the site, birds there experienced an elevated energy expenditure and poorer body condition than birds at the new stopover site. Reduced foraging time and increased energy expenditure at the traditional spring staging site may have triggered the colonization process. Suitability assessment of habitat for migratory geese should include measures of foraging opportunity, disturbance risks, and daily energy expenditure in addition to quantity and quality of foods.
Population Structure of the Lower Keys Marsh Rabbit as Determined by Mitochondrial DNA Analysis
Authors: CROUSE AMANDA L. , HONEYCUTT RODNEY L. , MCCLEERY ROBERT A. , FAULHABER CRAIG A. , PERRY NEIL D. , LOPEZ ROEL R.
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT  We used nucleotide sequence data from a mitochondrial DNA fragment to characterize variation within the endangered Lower Keys marsh rabbit (Sylvilagus palustris hefneri). We observed 5 unique mitochondrial haplotypes across different sampling sites in the Lower Florida Keys, USA. Based on the frequency of these haplotypes at different geographic locations and relationships among haplotypes, we observed 2 distinct clades or groups of sampling sites (western and eastern clades). These 2 groups showed low levels of gene flow. Regardless of their origin, marsh rabbits from the Lower Florida Keys can be separated into 2 genetically distinct management units, which should be considered prior to implementation of translocations as a means of offsetting recent population declines.
Low‐Cost Global Positioning System Harness for Pampas Deer
Authors: ZUCCO CARLOS ANDRÉ , MOURÃO GUILHERME
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT Global Positioning System (GPS) collars have proven to be an efficient tool for studying wildlife. However, this technique generally requires great investment in material, which notwithstanding its possible cost‐effectiveness, is still beyond the means of most of the scientific community in developing countries. We developed and applied a low‐cost GPS harness system placed on pampas deer (Ozotoceros bezoarticus) in the Central Pantanal of Brazil and compared costs of our technique to other commonly manufactured GPS collar systems. Of the 19 GPS harness attached to deer, 8 failed to obtain data series. For the remaining 11 animals, we stored 31,596 locations at 5‐minute and 10‐minute fix interval schedules (<120 days of continuous monitoring). Monitoring period of each animal lasted from 4.5 days to 17.4 days. Location error tested with a stationary GPS receiver was >3.7 m for 95% of locations. Rate of fixes acquired on the programmed schedule after correcting for errors was 98.5%. Compared to the 4 most used GPS radiocollar manufacturers, cost per fix of the GPS harness we developed was >50% of the cost per fix of the cheapest available product, although our modified device was heavier than all available products for medium‐sized deer. Our approach was cost‐effective to generate reliable information about activity patterns of pampas deer and may represent an alternative technique, especially for researchers in underdeveloped countries.
Factors Affecting Golden‐Cheeked Warbler Nest Survival in Urban and Rural Landscapes
Authors: REIDY JENNIFER L. , THOMPSON FRANK R. , PEAK REBECCA G.
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT We evaluated hypotheses concerning temporal, landscape, and habitat effects on nest survival of golden‐cheeked warblers (Dendroica chrysoparia) in an urban and a rural landscape during the breeding seasons of 2005 and 2006 in central Texas, USA. We found support for temporal effects of year and cubic effect of date and included them in candidate models that evaluated habitat and landscape effects. Nest survival was lower in 2006 than in 2005 and decreased nonlinearly as the breeding season progressed. We found support for edge effects with decreased nest survival nearer edges and in areas with increased open edge density (wooded habitat abutting open habitat) or decreased trail density. However, confidence intervals for the model‐averaged odds ratios overlapped 1.0 for all edge variables. Overall daily survival rate was 0.964 (95% CI = 0.949‐0.975), resulting in a 25‐day period survival of 0.398 (95% CI = 0.269‐0.524). Period survival in Austin's urban landscape (0.399, 95% CI = 0.270‐0.526) was similar to survival in Fort Hood's rural landscape (0.396, 95% CI = 0.261‐0.528). Both landscapes likely support self‐sustaining populations based on reasonable assumptions for adult survival and number of nesting attempts. We suggest that some large urban preserves can provide breeding habitat of comparable quality to rural locations and recommend protecting large parcels (>100 ha) of breeding habitat with limited fragmentation and reducing the amount of wooded edge abutting open habitat to ensure nest survival regardless of their landscape context.
Evaluating Mule Deer Body Condition Using Serum Thyroid Hormone Concentrations
Authors: BISHOP CHAD J. , WATKINS BRUCE E. , WOLFE LISA L. , FREDDY DAVID J. , WHITE GARY C.
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT  Body condition of ungulates is a determinant of fecundity and survival rates. Ultrasonography and body condition scoring techniques allow reliable estimation of body fat but may not be feasible to employ in some circumstances. A reliable blood chemistry index for assessing relative condition of different ungulate populations or groups would be useful in ongoing population monitoring programs. We provided a nutrition supplement (treatment) to a group of free‐ranging mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) during 2 consecutive winters in southwest Colorado. In late February each year, we evaluated whether percent body fat and serum concentrations of total thyroxine (T4), total triiodothyronine (T3), free thyroxine (FT4), and free triiodothyronine (FT3) were higher among treatment deer than an adjacent group of deer that did not receive treatment (control). As a corroborative analysis, we modeled body fat as a function of thyroid hormone concentrations and morphometric variables. Estimated body fat of treatment deer averaged 12.3% (SE = 0.327), whereas estimated body fat of control deer averaged 7.0% (SE = 0.333) during the 2 winters of study. Concentrations of T4 and FT4 averaged 48.07 nanomole/L (SE = 3.80) and 12.61 picomole/L (SE = 1.04) higher, respectively, in treatment deer than control deer. Our optimal model of estimated body fat included T4, T42, FT4, and deer chest girth (%FAT = −4.8015 − 0.0946 × T4 + 0.000603 × T42 + 0.1474 × FT4 + 0.1426 × chest girth, R2 = 0.609). Serum thyroid hormones effectively discerned treatment deer from control deer and were related to estimated body fat. Ultrasound and body condition scoring should be used to estimate body fat whenever possible. However, in cases where only a blood sample can be obtained, we documented potential utility of T4 and FT4 during late winter for evaluating relative body condition of mule deer.
Risk factors for the development of diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Antic Miodrag , Jotic Aleksandra , Radovic Milan , Seferovic Jelena , Lalic Nebojsa , Jovanovic Dijana , Lezaic Visnja
Published: March 2009

Introduction. Results of epidemiological analysis show that one third of patients with diabetes mellitus develop diabetic nephropathy (DN). Strategies used until now to slow down the progression of DN were initiated when the symptoms of DN were already present. Objective. Our objective was to analyze the prevalence and characteristics of DN and to determine the factors leading to DN. Methods. Fifty-two patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) - 32 with type 1 aged 32 years and 20 with type 2 aged 59 years - were referred from the Institute of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases to the Department of Nephrology for kidney function evaluation. Apart from routine laboratory analyses, glomerular filtration rate was calculated using the MDRD formula (modification of diet in renal disease), the size of the kidney was measured by ultrasound, and kidney volume was calculated using the ellipsoid formula. Results Thirty percent of the patients revealed normal (eight patients with DM type 1) or satisfactory kidney function (eight patients with DM type 1) with physiological proteinuria. Micro-albuminuria (MAU) or pathological proteinuria (PRT) were found in 10 and 9 patients, respectively, with DM type 1, while decreased kidney function was found in one patient without proteinuria. MAU or PRT were found in four and eight patients, respectively, with DM type 2 and decreased kidney function in four patients without proteinuria. Kidney function was significantly lower in patients with DM type 2 in comparison to DM type 1, while the patients with decreased kidney function had a higher PRT. Compared to DM type 2, in DM type 1 patients, the kidney was longer, and parenchymal artery resistance index was lower in DM type 1 patients compared to DM type 2. Factors associated with DN were patient's age, duration of diabetes, systolic blood pressure, HbA1c and kidney volume. Conclusion. The prevalence of DN among the studied patients was 70%. Treatable factors associated with the development of DN are strict control of blood pressure and glycaemia control.
Acute and late toxicity in radical radiotherapy of prostate cancer
Authors: Josifovski Tatjana , Tulic Cane , Milosevic Aleksandar , Radosevic-Jelic Ljiljana
Published: March 2009

Introduction. Although radical radiotherapy has proved to be a successful method in prostate cancer treatment, the conventional (box) technique can result in significant adverse events. Objective. The objective of our study was to estimate the frequency, type and severity of acute and late toxicity in radical radiotherapy of prostate cancer. Methods. In a clinical retrospective study, we included 283 patients with histologically confirmed prostate cancer. All our patients received radical, conventional radiotherapy using the four-field technique. The study was performed at the Radiotherapy Department of the Institute for Oncology and Radiology of Serbia between January 1991 and December 2005. During regular follow-up, we analyzed the frequency, type and severity of acute and late toxicity. Results. Two thirds (71%) of our patients had acute toxicity of at least one organ within the radiation field. Most frequent complication was radiation dermatitis (10.5%), and enteritis (9%), cystitis (6%) and proctitis (2.5%). Acute adverse events were mostly low grade (I and II, 28-61%). Late complications were registered in 20.5% of patients. Skin fibrosis was most frequent (12%). Chronic proctitis was detected in 4% and urethral stricture in 4.5% of our patients. All late complications were low grade. Conclusion. Treatment tolerance of radical radiotherapy is relatively good. Although most patients develop acute toxicity, it is commonly low grade and requires the interruption of radiotherapy treatment in 20% of patients only. Late toxicity is rarer than acute and, in most cases, it does not affect the quality of life.
Alterations of c-Myc and c-erbB-2 genes in ovarian tumours
Authors: Pastor Tibor , Popovic Branka , Gvozdenovic Ana , Boro Aleksandar , Petrovic Bojana , Novakovic Ivana , Puzovic Dragana , Lukovic Ljiljana , Milasin Jelena
Published: March 2009

Introduction. According to clinical and epidemiological studies, ovarian cancer ranks fifth in cancer deaths among women. The causes of ovarian cancer remain largely unknown but various factors may increase the risk of developing it, such as age, family history of cancer, childbearing status etc. This cancer results from a succession of genetic alterations involving oncogenes and tumour suppressor genes, which have a critical role in normal cell growth regulation. Mutations and/or overexpression of three oncogenes, c-erbB-2, c-Myc and K-ras, and of the tumour suppressor gene p53, have been frequently observed in a sporadic ovarian cancer. Objective. The aim of the present study was to analyze c-Myc and c-erbB-2 oncogene alterations, specifically amplification, as one of main mechanisms of their activation in ovarian cancers and to establish a possible association with the pathogenic process. Methods. DNA was isolated from 15 samples of malignant and 5 benign ovarian tumours, using proteinase K digestion, followed by phenol-chloroform isoamyl extraction and ethanol precipitation. C-Myc and c-erbB-2 amplification were detected by differential PCR. The level of gene copy increase was measured using the Scion image software. Results. The amplification of both c-Myc and c-erbB-2 was detected in 26.7% of ovarian epithelial carcinoma specimens. Only one tumour specimen concomitantly showed increased gene copy number for both studied genes. Interestingly, besides amplification, gene deletion was also detected (26.7% for c-erbB-2). Most of the ovarian carcinomas with alterations in c-Myc and c-erbB-2 belonged to advanced FIGO stages. Conclusion. The amplification of c-Myc and c-erbB-2 oncogenes in ovarian epithelial carcinomas is most probably a late event in the pathogenesis conferring these tumours a more aggressive biological behaviour. Similarly, gene deletions point to genomic instability in epithelial carcinomas in higher clinical stages as the result of clonal evolution and selection.
Strategic planning in a highly specialized orthopaedic institution
Authors: Vukasinovic Zoran , Bjegovic-Mikanovic Vesna , Janicic Radmila , Spasovski Dusko , Zivkovic Zorica , Cerovic Sofija , Terzic Zorica
Published: March 2009

Introduction. The Institute for Orthopaedic Surgery 'Banjica' in Belgrade provides tertiary healthcare services on national level. After decades of constant development, a recent decline coincided with the decade of great social and governmental disturbance, the transition period after the dissociation of former Yugoslavia. Objective. In order to overcome the crisis, we used modern management methods to define problems in the institution management, and to propose appropriate strategies. Methods. A survey that included 100 employees (17.67%) was carried out, followed by descriptive statistical analysis, PEST and SWOT analyses. Results The impact of political fluctuations, ageing of population, financing model, obsolete medical technology was evaluated. Various personal and interpersonal factors were assessed: the quality of medical service (3.59?0.76, mark 1-5); relations among health service participants (3.39?0.78); occupational conditions (not good-91%); human, financial and other resources; professional cooperation, stimulation; rivalry and mobbing (declared in 56%); public informing, institution image (rank 3.70?0.88) and PR activities (new to 78%). 93% declared to give maximum effort at work. Conclusion. Using these results, we defined several strategic objectives. These include strengthening scientific activities, general orientation to specific and exclusive pathological conditions and treatment methods, improvement of management transparency, introduction of quality-based stimulation of workers, support of promotional and PR activities.
External auditory canal osteoma
Authors: Sente Marko
Published: March 2009

Introduction. Osteomas are a slow growing benign neoplasm of unknown etiology very rarely involving the temporal bone. They develop in the external auditory canal on squamous sections, in the mastoid, middle and inner ear. By bone composition they are divided into spongious (osteoma spongiosum) and compact osteomas (osteoma eburnum); by growth direction, into outward-growing (exosteoma) and in inwardgrowing (endosteoma); into unilateral and bilateral; by size, into small and gigantic; by surface structure, into smooth and multilobular; by number, into solitary and multiple; into symmetrical and asymmetrical. The symptoms of intracanalicular osteomas are the result of auditory canal obstruction. Diagnosis is made based on case history, clinical examination, audiological processing and radiography (temporal bone CT scan), and confirmed by histopathological examination of the bone. In terms of differential diagnosis, they must be distinguished from exostoses, bone tissue proliferation and osteoid osteomata. The progress of the disease is prolonged, as they are slow growing, asymptomatic and benign tumours. Therapy is surgical only. Case Outline. The report presents the case of a 70-year old patient with the osteoma of the right external auditory canal. In our patient, the osteoma arose in the auditory canal, the most frequent localization; it was unilateral, solitary, multilobular and compact. It was discovered accidentally, during otoscopic examination. The clinical diagnosis was confirmed by CT scan of the temporal bone. We applied surgical therapy by retroauricular approach. The removed bone change was about 12 mm high, 13-14 mm deep and about 8 mm wide. Histopathological findings confirmed osteoma. Conclusion. Due to their slow growth, the rate of auditory canal osteomas develop asymptomatically for a long time without the characteristic clinical features. In most cases, they are discovered accidentally during otoscopic or radiographic examination. The method of choice in diagnosis is temporal bone CT scan. Therapy is surgical.
Essential thrombocythaemia as a causative agent of portal vein thrombosis: A case report
Authors: Culafic Djordje , Miljic Predrag , Culafic-Vojinovic Violeta , Kerkez Mirko , Stefanovic Dejan
Published: March 2009

Introduction. Thrombosis of splanchnic blood vessels is one of the most difficult complications and most frequent causes of death in patients with myeloproliferative disorders. Case Outline. We report a 48-year-old man with recurring haemorrhage from the upper digestive tract. Doppler ultrasonography of the portal system revealed a thrombosed portal vein, with marginal flow of 10 cm/s. Peroral fiber panendoscopy of the oesophagus showed III-IV degree varices together with varices in the stomach fundus. Blood count revealed thrombocytosis (Pt. 900 x 109/l), and haematological analysis led to the diagnosis of essential thrombocythaemia. However, two years after the established diagnosis, the patient was hospitalized again for bleeding from esophageal varicosity. During haemorrhage, anticoagulant therapy was discontinued. Eight days after anticoagulant discontinuation, mesenterial thrombosis and small intestinal gangrene developed. Surgical intervention was carried out, including resection of 2.5 m of the small intestine. In spite of intensive postoperative therapy, the lethal outcome ensued. Conclusion. The bleeding from oesophageal and/or gastric varicosity is often the presenting manifestation of up to that time undetected myeloproliferative disease. The following question still remains open: should anticoagulant therapy be continued in the phase of acute bleeding of these patients?.
Hyper-IgM syndrome in a boy with recurrent pneumonia and hepatosplenomegaly
Authors: Janic Dragana , Radlovic Nedeljko , Dokmanovic Lidija , Krstovski Nada , Lekovic Zoran , Jankovic Srdja , Ristic Dragana
Published: March 2009

Introduction. We present a boy diagnosed at age 14 years with hyper-immunoglobulin (Ig) M syndrome, a congenital immunodeficiency characterized by reduced plasma concentrations of IgA, IgE and IgG, with normal or elevated concentrations of IgM. This syndrome is caused by a defect of CD40 ligand (CD40L) on T-helper lymphocytes, impeding the 'second signal' during activation of B lymphocytes and interactions of T cells with dendritic cells and macrophages, resulting in the absence of secondary immune response (class switching, affinity maturation, immune memory), as well as responses to T-dependent antigens, with an impairment of cellular immunity. Case Outline. The history of the presented patient was dominated by frequent lower respiratory infections and failure to thrive. Physical examination demonstrated severe hepatosplenomegaly. The suspicion of hyper-IgM syndrome was raised by low plasma IgA (0.36 g/l) with high plasma IgM (35.5 g/l), while the concentration of IgG was within the normal range (12.1 g/l). The diagnosis was confirmed by flow cytometry, which demonstrated the absence of expression of CD40L on lymphocytes following stimulation by phorbolmyristylacetate and calcium ionophore. Since the time of diagnosis, intravenous immunoglobulin therapy has led to catch-up growth, recession of hepatosplenomegaly and reduction in the frequency of respiratory infections. Conclusion. Our report emphasizes the importance for the primary healthcare paediatrician to be well informed about the clinical presentation and pathogenesis of hyper-IgM syndrome, in order to provide early detection and increase the likelihood of success in treating this rare immunodeficiency. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of hyper-IgM syndrome reported in the Republic of Serbia.
Hypertension in obese children and adolescents
Authors: Peco-Antic Amira
Published: March 2009

Obesity, especially upper body fat distribution, has become an increasingly important medical problem in children and adolescents. Outcomes related to childhood obesity include, as in adult population, hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, left ventricular hypertrophy, obstructive sleep apnea, orthopedic and socio-psychological problems. Obese children are at approximately 3-fold higher risk for hypertension from non-obese ones. Obesity-hypertension appears to be characterized by a preponderance of isolated systolic hypertension, increased heart rate and blood pressure variability, increased levels of plasma catecholamine and aldosterone, and salt-sensitivity. Lifestyle changes of weight loss, healthier diet and regular physical exercise are effective in obesity-hypertension control, though pharmacological treatment is frequently necessary. Screening for dyslipidemia and impaired glucose tolerance should be performed in paediatric patients with obese hypertension on regular basis, at least once annually or semiannually to discover metabolic syndrome and to prevent its increased cardiovascular risk. Of course, prevention of obesity is the primary goal. .
Examining the Human Cost of Multiple Role Expectations
Authors: Marginson David , Bui Binh
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT: We examine the potential human cost of multiple role expectations. Based on a survey of middle-level managers, and drawing on role theory to develop testable hypotheses, we show that expecting innovation and empowerment alongside budget-goal attainment may increase levels of role conflict, leading to a decrease in performance. Through field research we explore the coping strategies that may be invoked to deal with such psychological role conflict. We find that coping may be assisted by having responsibility for discretionary budgets, which allows managers to make trade-offs involving the budget in response to multiple role expectations. In addition, we show that high-performing managers are better able to cope with simultaneous expectations of innovation, empowerment, and budget-goal attainment than low-performing managers. Overall, our analysis suggests that positive outcomes may result from establishing forces for “creative innovation” alongside “predictable goal attainment” (Simons 1995), but only for a subset of managers who are able to cope with multiple, conflicting role expectations.
Prophylactic Ankle Taping: Elastic Versus Inelastic Taping
Authors: Abián-Vicén Javier , Alegre Luis M. , Fernández-Rodríguez Jose M. , Aguado Xavier
Published: March 2009

Background: The ankle is frequently injured in sporting activities, and therefore it is frequently protected with prophylactic ankle taping. This study aimed first, to compare the mechanical fatigue of two types of prophylactic ankle taping after 30 minutes of intense exercise, one made with elastic tape (ET) and the other with inelastic tape (IT), and second, to investigate the subjects’ perception on the tape restriction and comfort. Materials and Methods: Twenty-seven active women (mean age, 20.6 ± 4.1 years), without previous ankle injuries volunteered for the study. The participants were tested on three different conditions: with elastic ankle taping, with inelastic taping, and without taping, before and after 30 minutes of intense exercise. The ankle passive ranges of movement (ROMs) were measured before and after exercise, and a subjective scale on taping comfort and restriction was completed by the subjects. Results: Both types of ankle taping showed less ROM restriction after 30 minutes of exercise in inversion (IT = 27% and ET = 21%), and plantarflexion (IT = 8% and ET = 6%). The IT showed more loss of restriction than the ET, with significant differences in inversion ( p > 0.05). The participants perceived the ET as more comfortable and less restrictive. Conclusion: We would recommend the use of ET as the first choice for prophylactic ankle taping because it produces the same restriction in the ROM as the IT with less taping fatigue, and is perceived as more comfortable and less restrictive by the users.
Infected Total Ankle Arthroplasty Following Routine Dental Procedure
Authors: Young Jeffrey L. , May Megan M. , Haddad Steven L.
Published: March 2009

Level of Evidence: V, Case Report
The exhumation rate of Dabie orogen: Evidence from garnet diffusion zoning
Authors: Cheng Hao , Chen Daogong , Deloule Etienne
Published: March 2009

Himalayan Journal of Sciences Vol.2(4) Special Issue 2004 pp. 116-7
An iterative scheme for determining glacier velocities and stresses
Authors: Maxwell David , Truffer Martin , Avdonin Sergei , Stuefer Martin
Published: March 2009

There are no direct methods to measure the boundary condition at the base of a glacier. Here, we propose a method that works by iteratively changing boundary conditions until a satisfactory fit to surface observations is obtained. The method is an accelerated version of one known as Kozlov–Maz’ya iteration. We apply it to the problem of ice flow through a transverse cross-section, and show it to be effective by solving the inverse problem for a sequence of synthetic data. We also apply the method to two real glaciers, Athabasca and Perito Moreno, one of which has a known basal velocity distribution.
Recent glacier mass changes in the Gulf of Alaska region from GRACE mascon solutions
Authors: Luthcke Scott B. , Arendt Anthony A. , Rowlands David D. , McCarthy John J. , Larsen Christopher F.
Published: March 2009

The mass changes of the Gulf of Alaska (GoA) glaciers are computed from the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) inter-satellite range-rate data for the period April 2003–September 2007. Through the application of unique processing techniques and a surface mass concentration (mascon) parameterization, the mass variations in the GoA glacier regions have been estimated at high temporal (10 day) and spatial (2 × 2 arc-degrees) resolution. The mascon solutions are directly estimated from a reduction of the GRACE K-band inter-satellite range-rate data and, unlike previous GRACE solutions for the GoA glaciers, do not exhibit contamination by leakage from mass change occurring outside the region of interest. The mascon solutions reveal considerable temporal and spatial variation within the GoA glacier region, with the largest negative mass balances observed in the St Elias Mountains including the Yakutat and Glacier Bay regions. The most rapid losses occurred during the 2004 melt season due to record temperatures in Alaska during that year. The total mass balance of the GoA glacier region was −84 ± 5 Gt a−1 contributing 0.23 ± 0.01 mm a−1 to global sea-level rise from April 2003 through March 2007. Highlighting the large seasonal and interannual variability of the GoA glaciers, the rate determined over the period April 2003–March 2006 is −102 ± 5 Gt a−1, which includes the anomalously high temperatures of 2004 and does not include the large 2007 winter balance-year snowfall. The mascon solutions agree well with regional patterns of glacier mass loss determined from aircraft altimetry and in situ measurements.
Dating annual layers of a shallow Antarctic ice core with an optical scanner
Authors: McGwire Kenneth C. , McConnell Joseph R. , Alley Richard B. , Banta John R. , Hargreaves Geoffrey M. , Taylor Kendrick C.
Published: March 2009

This study tests novel methods for automatically identifying annual layers in a shallow Antarctic ice core (WDC05Q) using images that were collected with an optical scanner at the US National Ice Core Laboratory. A new method of optimized variance maximization (OVM) modeled the density-related changes in annual layer thickness directly from image variance. This was done by using multi-objective complex (MOCOM) parameter optimization to drive a low-pass filtering scheme. The OVM-derived changes in annual layer thickness corresponded well with the results of an independent glaciochemical interpretation of the core. Individual annual cycles in image brightness were then identified by using OVM results to apply a depth-varying low-pass filter and fitting a second-order polynomial to a locally detrended neighborhood. The resulting map of annual cycles agreed to within 1% of the overall annual count of the glaciochemical interpretation. Agreement on the presence of specific annual layer features was 96%. It was also shown that the MOCOM parameter optimization could calibrate the image-based results to match directly the date of a specific volcanic marker.
A new algorithm to simulate the dynamics of a glacier: theory and applications
Authors: Jouvet Guillaume , Picasso Marco , Rappaz Jacques , Blatter Heinz
Published: March 2009

We propose a novel Eulerian algorithm to compute the changes of a glacier geometry for given mass balances. The surface of a glacier is obtained by solving a transport equation for the volume of fluid (VOF). The surface mass balance is taken into account by adding an interfacial term in the transport equation. An unstructured mesh with standard stabilized finite elements is used to solve the non-linear Stokes problem. The VOF function is computed on a structured grid with a high resolution. The algorithm is stable for Courant numbers larger than unity and conserves mass to a high accuracy. To demonstrate the potential of the algorithm, we apply it to reconstructed Late-glacial states of a small valley glacier, Vadret Muragl, in the Swiss Alps.
AFM and Multiple Transmission-Reflection Infrared Spectroscopy (MTR-IR) Studies on Formation of Air-Stable Supported Lipid Bilayers
Authors: Guo Peng-Feng , Huang Wen-Yi , Liu Hong-Bo , Xiao Shou-Jun
Published: March 2009

Supported lipid bilayers (SLBs) were prepared by deposition of unilamellar vesicles on a silicon substrate. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and a new Multiple Transmission-Reflection Infrared Spectroscopy (MTR-IR) developed by us were used to trace the dynamic formation of lipid bilayers on the silicon surfaces. The evolution from deformation of vesicles to formation of bilayers can be distinguished clearly by AFM imaging. MTR-IR provided high quality infrared spectra of ultrathin lipid bilayers with high sensitivity and high signal to noise ratio (SNR). The structural and orientational changes during vesicle’s fusion were monitored with MTR-IR. MTR-IR shows superiority over other infrared approaches for ultrathin films on standard silicon wafers in view of its economy and high sensitivity. Both MTR-IR and AFM results were consistent with each other and they provided more information for understanding the self-assembling procedure of SLBs.
Synthesis of rac-tert-butyl 3-(benzyloxycarbonylamino)-2-(4-bromophenyl)-tetrahydrofuran-3-carboxylate
Authors: Grauer Andreas , König Burkhard
Published: March 2009

A new Cα-tetrasubstituted α-amino acid rac-tert-butyl°3-(benzyloxycarbonylamino)-2-(4-bromophenyl)-tetrahydrofuran-3-carboxylate was synthesized and characterized by NMR, MS, elemental analysis and X-ray
X-ray and Hydrogen-bonding Properties of 1-((1H-benzotriazol-1-yl)methyl)naphthalen-2-ol
Authors: Rivera Augusto , Duarte Yorley , González-Salas Diego , Ríos-Motta Jaime , Zaragoza Guillermo
Published: March 2009

The solid state structure of 1-((1H-benzotriazol-1-yl)methyl)naphthalen-2-ol, C17H13N3O, shows that this Mannich base crystallizes forming intermolecular N···HO hydrogen bonds, rather than intramolecular ones. Factors contributing to this choice of hydrogen-bonding mode are discussed. The compound crystallizes in the monoclinic system, P21/c space group, with lattice constants: a = 11.7934(9) Å, b = 14.3002(14) Å, c = 8.4444(8) Å, β = 106.243(5) deg, V = 1367.3(2) Å3, Z = 4, F(000) = 576, R1 = 6.96%, wR2 = 11.4%.
Synthesis and Herbicidal Activities of Novel 4-(4-(5-methyl-3-arylisoxazol-4-yl)thiazol-2-yl)piperidyl Carboxamides and Thiocarboxamides
Authors: Hu De-Jin , Liu Su-Fang , Huang Tong-Hui , Tu Hai-Yang , Zhang Ai-Dong
Published: March 2009

A series of novel 4-(4-(5-methyl-3-arylisoxazol-4-yl)thiazol-2-yl)piperidyl carboxamides and thiocarboxamides were synthesized as potential lead compounds of inhibitors targeting D1 protease in plants. These compounds were designed on the basis of a D1 protease inhibitor hit structure identified by homology modeling and virtual screening. The syntheses of these compounds were accomplished via a four-step procedure including the isoxazole ring formation, a-bromination of acetyl group, thiazole ring formation, and carboxamide/thiocarboxamide attachment. The in vivo herbicidal activity tests show that most compounds possess moderate to good herbicidal activities. The enzyme activity of one compound against the native spinach D1 protease exhibits a competitive inhibition. The results suggest that these compounds are indeed potential inhibitors for targeting D1 protease in plants.
Antibacterial Activities of Dodonaea viscosa using Contact Bioautography Technique
Authors: Khurram Muhammad , Khan Murad Ali , Hameed Abdul , Abbas Naz , Qayum Abdul , Inayat Humaira
Published: March 2009

The crude ethanolic extract and n-hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, n-butanol and aqueous fractions of Dodonaea viscosa were analyzed for antibacterial potential against four Gram positive bacteria: Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus cereus, Micrococcus luteus, Staphylococcus aureus, and three Gram negative bacteria: Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Preliminary screening showed inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus, Micrococcus luteus, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The thin layer chromatograms of the fractions were then subjected to contact bioautography, which showed inhibition zone at different Rf values against Bacillus subtilis, Micrococcus luteus, Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, indicating the presence of antibacterial components. The MIC of each fraction was determined through a 96-well micro-titer plate method. The non-viability of the organisms was ascertained by determining the MBC of the fractions.
Developing thresholds of potential concern for invasive alien species: Hypotheses and concepts
Authors: Foxcroft Llewellyn C.
Published: March 2009

The Kruger National Park (KNP) has developed and refined a system of management called ‘strategic adaptive management’ (SAM), which rests on the concept of ‘threshold of potential concern’ (TPC). TPCs represent end-points in a continuum of change. When thresholds are reached – at which point concerns of negative impacts on biodiversity are raised – management options are explicitly considered and implemented. This paper describes the TPCs developed for monitoring and managing invasive alien species (IAS). More importantly, however, it describes the conceptual understanding, principles and hypotheses adopted as the foundations for setting these TPCs. In accordance with adaptive management practices, the TPCs will be revised as the ecological and conceptual understanding of invasions grows and information is gained through research in the KNP and elsewhere.Conservation implication: In accepting that species and systems are variable, and that flux is inevitable and desirable, these TPCs developed for invasive alien species specifi cally, provide end points against which monitoring can be assessed. Once a threshold is reached, the cause of the threshold being exceeded is examined and management interventions recommended.
Brain Imaging: Observing Ongoing Neural Activity
Authors: DiGirolamo Gregory J , Patel Neha , Becker Brian
Published: March 2009

The neuroimaging techniques available to observe ongoing brain activity during human cognition include functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), positron emission tomography (PET), event‐related potentials (ERPs), magnetoencephalography (MEG) and event‐related optical signaling (EROS). Additionally, brain activity can be disrupted temporarily via transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Using these neuroimaging methods, both spatial and temporal precision are attainable in describing the underlying neural substrates that comprise human cognition. Great progress has been made in understanding the physiological basis of human thought with many exciting new frontiers opening up including understanding the genetics of human cognition and the neural basis of consciousness.
Noroviruses
Authors: Bailey Dalan , Goodfellow Ian
Published: March 2009

Noroviruses are one of the primary causes of acute gastroenteritis in man in the developed world, yet may also cause acute and persistent infections in animals. The study of noroviruses has been largely hindered by the lack of an efficient cell culture system for the viruses which infect humans. However, new advances in molecular techniques and the identification of animal noroviruses have led to a recent increase in our understanding of the structure and function of the virus, as well as the proteins encoded by the positive‐stranded
ribonucleic acid
(RNA) genome. Our knowledge of the molecular mechanism of norovirus genome translation and replication lags behind that of many positive‐stranded RNA viruses but recent studies have highlighted some unique and interesting features of these economically important pathogens.

Key Concepts:

The causative agent of norovirus disease is a small RNA virus.

The virus replicates in the gastrointestinal tract of its host.

Noroviruses infect a wide range of mammals, including humans where they represent a significant cause of viral gastroenteritis.

Noroviruses are highly transmissible and capable of causing serious epidemics.

Norovirus virions have icosahedral symmetry.

The norovirus genome is positive sense, meaning it is directly translated into proteins.

Norovirus genome replication is thought to occur through an antigenome intermediate.

The replication process takes place in the cytoplasm of infected cells.

Reverse genetics systems are available for some noroviruses allowing detailed investigation of their replication strategies and the molecular determinants of their pathogenicity.
Complement Receptors
Authors: Leslie Robert Graham Quinton , Hansen Søren
Published: March 2009

Complement receptors are membrane proteins, expressed on cells involved in the immune response, which bind a wide range of the protein fragments generated in the course of complement activation. Through these cellular interactions, the complement system plays a crucial role combating infection. Thus, complement is instrumental in the recruitment of blood leucocytes to a site of inflammation, in promoting phagocytosis and/or extracellular killing of the microorganisms by these cells and in clearance of particulate and soluble immune complexes (ICs) generated at the infected site or released in the circulation. Furthermore, complement is intimately involved in the development of an acquired immune response towards invading pathogens both through the induction of primary B‐cell responses and through shaping of T‐cell responses towards the antigen. This article presents a systematic account of the complement receptors in terms of their structure, cellular distribution and biological and signalling functions.

Key concepts:

Structural diversity of receptors reflecting the diversity of the complement fragments engaged.

Functional diversity, depending on the type of complement fragment involved and/or the type of cells expressing the appropriate receptor.
Lymph Nodes
Authors: Weiss Lawrence M
Published: March 2009

The lymph nodes are numerous encapsulated structures occurring in mammalians along the lymphatics. They contain lymphoid cells with a precise microanatomy organized to react to a variety of antigens via humoral and cellular immune responses. Lymph nodes consist of a cortex (B‐cell zone) with primary and secondary follicles, a paracortical region (T‐cell zone), sinuses and medullary cords. High endothelial venules represent a specialized vasculature with specific receptors for immune cells, which facilitate the migration of lymphocytes and dendritic cells. The main function of the lymph node is to generate an efficient immune response to antigens that have penetrated the organism in the areas drained by that node. Dendritic cells present antigen to naïve B cells, with the formation of germinal centres, as well as naïve T cells in the cortex. Malignant lymphoma represents the overwhelming majority of primary lymph node neoplasms, including both Hodgkin lymphoma and non‐Hodgkin lymphoma.

Key concepts

Lymph nodes are encapsulated structures present in mammalians and distributed at specific sites throughout the body, which represent an important component of the secondary immune system.

Lymph nodes have a specific microarchitecture, comprising a cortex, paracortical region, medullary cords and sinuses.

The cortex is the B‐cell compartment and includes primary and secondary germinal centres, whereas the paracortical zone is the T‐cell compartment.

Mature lymphocytes constantly recirculate between the lymph nodes and the peripheral blood, entering the lymph nodes passively via afferent lymphatics and actively via the high‐endothelial venules of the lymph node via specific surface receptors.

The B‐cell compartment contain a range of B‐cell maturation, from naïve primary follicle and mantle zone B‐cells, to the centrocytes and then centroblasts of the germinal centre.

The paracortical zone represents the site of T‐cell activation and induction of specific T‐cell migration to the follicles of the cortical region.

The germinal centre represents a factory for the ultimate production of B‐lineage effector cells (plasma cells and memory B cells).

Most reactive diseases of the lymph node represent a form of exaggeration of the normal response.

Lymphoma represents the overwhelming majority of primary lymph node neoplasms, and may be B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma, T‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma or Hodgkin lymphoma, the latter representing a distinctive neoplasm of Reed–Sternberg cells, unique cells derived from B cells.
Potyviridae
Authors: López‐Moya Juan José , Valli Adrián , García Juan Antonio
Published: March 2009

The
Potyviridae
family comprises several genera of plant‐infecting single‐stranded positive‐sense
ribonucleic acid
(RNA) viruses, with flexible and filamentous virion particles. In addition to the large genus

Potyvirus

which includes near 200 aphid‐transmitted viruses, at least 5 more genera,

Bymovirus

,

Ipomovirus

,

Macluravirus

,

Rymovirus

and

Tritimovirus

, have been differentiated in terms of genome composition and structure (two RNA molecules for bymoviruses, one for the rest of genera), sequence similarity and vector organisms responsible of their dissemination. Globally very important as pathogens, they also have drawn the attention of the research community for years and been used to study many aspects including taxonomy, evolution, structure, functional characterization of viral proteins, diagnosis, control and interaction with hosts and vectors. Even biotechnological applications of potyviruses are being explored. The most recent advances in our knowledge about viruses within the family are being presented.
Western Blotting: Immunoblotting
Authors: Bjerrum Ole J , Heegaard Niels HH
Published: March 2009

Western blotting is a method by which proteins that have been physically separated and subsequently immobilized on the surface of a membrane are probed for reactivity with different types of affinity reagents, such as antibodies, receptors, are tested for the presence of interacting proteins in pure preparations or complex mixtures. Immunoblotting and the major steps of the procedure are described. It concerns the most commonly applied separation technique: sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDSPAGE); the major transfer techniques: semidry or tank blotting; the many protein stains where the choice is depending on the sensitivity wanted and selection of the right blocking procedure. Visualization of bound probes represents a major issue as the variations are legio, but where the use of enzyme conjugated antibodies for colorimetric, chemo‐ and bioluminiscence is the most applied ones. The limits for quantitative use of the technique, the specificity problem crucial for a proper interpretation and various application, are described.

Key concepts

The nomenclature including geographical terms.

Overview of the many variants of the steps of the immunoblotting procedure.

Knowledge of the commonly appearing pitfalls of the technical process.

The limits for using immunoblotting for quantification purpose.

Understanding the importance of antibody specificity and use of controls for correct interpretation of the patterns.
Bunyaviridae
Authors: Taylor Shannon L , Altamura Louis A , Schmaljohn Connie S
Published: March 2009

The family
Bunyaviridae
is a large and diverse group of enveloped viruses with
ribonucleic acid
(RNA) genomes. The family consists of over 300 species that are divided into 5 genera. All bunyavirus genomes are comprised of three negative‐sense RNA segments, but they differ in their coding strategies to generate the structural and nonstructural proteins required for replication. Viruses are transmitted by infected vectors that include mosquitoes, phlebotomine flies, ticks and rodents. Bunyaviruses are distributed worldwide and are responsible for a variety of illnesses in human hosts ranging from mild to haemorrhagic fevers or fatal encephalitis. Thus, bunyaviruses are important infectious agents and vector control, precautionary measures, and education are needed to prevent future outbreaks in endemic areas.

Key Concepts

Bunyavirus replication occurs in the cytoplasm via a viral RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase.

All bunyavirus genomes consist of three negative‐sense RNA segments that encode for structural and/or nonstructural proteins.

Structural proteins are required for replication and nonstructural proteins generally play a role in evading host cellular responses.

Vectors that transmit bunyaviruses to humans include mosquitoes, phelobotomine flies, ticks and rodents.

Symptoms of bunyavirus infection include mild febrile illness, haemorrhagic fever and encephalitis.

Bunyaviruses can be found worldwide, so precautionary measures should be taken when travelling to endemic areas.