bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Template‐Controlled Formation of an [11]ane‐P2CNHC Macrocyclic Ligand at an Iron(II) Template
Authors: Flores‐Figueroa Aarón , Pape Tania , Weigand Jan J. , Hahn F. Ekkehardt
Published: May 2010

Complex [Fe(η5‐C5H5)(η6‐PhMe)]PF6 reacts with 1,2‐bis[bis(2‐fluorophenyl)phosphanyl]benzene (2) in acetonitrile under irradiation for 6 h to give complex [Fe(η5‐C5H5)(2)(CH3CN)]PF6 ([3]PF6). Reaction of [3]PF6 with 1 equiv. of 2‐azidoethyl isocyanide (4) yields complex [Fe(η5‐C5H5)(2)(4)]X ([5]X) (X = Br, PF6). Staudinger reaction with PPh3 at the azido function followed by hydrolysis of the iminophosphorane with HBr yields compound [6]X (X = Br–, PF6 –) with an NH,NH‐stabilized NHC ligand. The facially coordinated NH,NH‐stabilized NHC and the fluorinated diphosphane ligands were linked by N,N′‐deprotonation of the NHC and nucleophilic attack of the nitrogen atoms at two C–F bonds, which gave – after anion exchange with NH4PF6 – complex [1]PF6 bearing the macrocyclic [11]ane‐P2CNHC ligand.
Synthetic Strategies Directed Towards the Cortistatin Family of Natural Products
Authors: Hardin Narayan Alison R. , Simmons Eric M. , Sarpong Richmond
Published: May 2010

Since their isolation by Kobayashi and co‐workers, the cortistatins have captured the attention both of the synthetic chemistry community and of researchers interested in exploiting the potent anti‐angiogenic activity of these natural products. The unique rearranged steroidal cortistatin core has become the target of numerous synthetic efforts, which are detailed herein.
A Novel Family of Onium Salts Based Upon Isonitroso Meldrum's Acid Proves Useful as Peptide Coupling Reagents
Authors: El‐Faham Ayman , Subirós‐Funosas Ramon , Albericio Fernando
Published: May 2010

A new family of uronium salts (HTMU, HMMU, and HDmPyMU) based on isonitroso Meldrum's acid (HONM) are reported as stand‐alone coupling reagents. Amide bond formation with the use of these reagents occurred more quickly than that with other uronium salts as a result of the presence of a neighboring group effect with a cyclic structure. Thus, these novel onium salts were often more effective in the acylation of poor nucleophiles and in the control of optical purity than related Oxyma‐ and benzotriazole‐based reagents. Among the HONM derivatives, HMMU showed the best performance in reducing racemization and assembling demanding sequences such as the Aib‐ACP decapeptide or analogues of Leu‐enkephalin pentapeptide. Furthermore, the scope and limitations of the use of HONM as an additive in combination with carbodiimides is discussed.
Synthesis of Sugar‐Fused Isoxazoline N‐Oxides from 2‐Nitroglycals
Authors: Zhang Qingju , Sun Jiansong , Zhang Fuyi , Yu Biao
Published: May 2010

A new type of sugar‐fused isoxazoline N‐oxides was synthesized from 2‐nitroglycals via [1+4] condensation with bromomalonate under the action of DBU. In addition, 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition of these isoxazoline N‐oxides with alkene and alkyne dipolarophiles were also investigated.
Modelling of a Pressure Element for Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Stack
Authors: Ryczek B.
Published: May 2010

The paper deals with the structural analysis of a corrugated pressure element for the SOFC stack. The aim of the element application is assurance of the fuel cell tightness and sufficient electrical contact between components by means of its uniform pressure. In this paper, a method of the pressure element modelling is proposed and results of its behaviour analysis for different assembly conditions (free ends, fixed ends and ends subjected to friction force) are presented. Vertical and horizontal stiffness of the corrugated element as a function of its geometrical parameters has been determined which facilitates computer simulation and engineering design of the element.
Oxygen Dissociation and Interfacial Transfer Rate on Performance of SOFCs with Metal‐Added (LaSr)(CoFe)O3‐(Ce,Gd)O2 – δ Cathodes
Authors: Huang T.‐J. , Chou C.‐L.
Published: May 2010

A solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) unit is constructed with Ni‐Ce0.9Gd0.1O2 – δ (GDC) as the anode, yttria‐stabilised zirconia (YSZ) as the electrolyte and Pt, Ag or Cu‐added La0.58Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3 – δ (LSCF)–GDC as the cathode. The current–voltage measurements are performed at 800 °C. Cu addition leads to best SOFC performance. LSCF–GDC–Cu is better than LSCF–GDC and much better than GDC as the material of the cathode interlayer. Cu content of 2 wt.‐% leads to best SOFC performance. A cathode functional layer calcined at 800 °C is better than that calcined at higher temperature. Metal addition increases the O2 dissociation reactivity but results in an interfacial resistance for O transfer. A balance between the rates of O2 dissociation and interfacial O transfer is needed for best SOFC performance.
Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) Flow Field Plate: Design, Materials and Characterisation
Authors: Hamilton P. J. , Pollet B. G.
Published: May 2010

This review describes some recent developments in the area of flow field plates (FFPs) for proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). The function, parameters and design of FFPs in PEM fuel cells are outlined and considered in light of their performance. FFP materials and manufacturing methods are discussed and current in situ and ex situ characterisation techniques are described.
A Novel Approach to Engineer the Microstructure of Solid Oxide Fuel Cell materials
Authors: Ruiz‐Morales J. C. , Marrero‐López D. , Canales‐Vázquez J. , Núñez P. , Domínguez‐González J. M.
Published: May 2010

A novel and cost‐effective process to accurately control the design of 3D structures of SOFC materials is proposed. A master mould is fabricated from a rubber‐based material. Metallic meshes are used to transfer any type of patterns to the rubber‐based material. The reusable master mould can then be filled with a slurry of inorganic materials made of single or complex oxides and other organic components commonly used in tape‐casting technology. After drying at room temperature, the master‐mould can be easily peeled‐off and then a slow thermal process allows obtaining a sintered material with precisely controlled features such as the size and distribution of the pore holes in the structure, the thickness of the electrode and electrolyte layers, type of patterning, etc. The potential advantages of micro‐ and nanoengineering of materials for energy applications are also discussed.
Mechanism of the decrease in catalytic activity of human cytochrome P450 2C9 polymorphic variants investigated by computational analysis
Authors: Sano Eri , Li Weihua , Yuki Hitomi , Liu Xinli , Furihata Tomomi , Kobayashi Kaoru , Chiba Kan , Neya Saburo , Hoshino Tyuji
Published: May 2010

Cytochrome P450 (CYP) is deeply involved in the metabolism of chemicals including pharmaceuticals. Therefore, polymorphisms of this enzyme have been widely studied to avoid unfavorable side effects of drugs in chemotherapy. In this work, we performed computational analysis of the mechanism of the decrease in enzymatic activity for three typical polymorphisms in CYP 2C9 species: *2, *3, and *5. Based on the equilibrated structure obtained by molecular dynamics simulation, the volume of the binding pocket and the fluctuation of amino residues responsible for substrate holding were compared between the wild type and the three variants. Further docking simulation was carried out to evaluate the appropriateness of the binding pocket to accommodate substrate chemicals. Every polymorphic variant was suggested to be inferior to the wild type in enzymatic ability from the structural viewpoint. F‐G helices were obviously displaced outward in CYP2C9*2. Expansion of the binding pocket, especially the space near F′ helix, was remarkable in CYP2C9*3. Disappearance of the hydrogen bond between K helix and β4 loop was observed in CYP2C9*5. The reduction of catalytic activity of those variants can be explained from the deformation of the binding pocket and the consequent change in binding mode of substrate chemicals. The computational approach is effective for predicting the enzymatic activity of polymorphic variants of CYP. This prediction will be helpful for advanced drug design because calculations forecast unexpected change in drug efficacy for individuals. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2010
Depth‐resolved in vivo micro‐Raman spectroscopy of a murine skin tumor model reveals cancer‐specific spectral biomarkers
Authors: Wang Hequn , Huang Naiyan , Zhao Jianhua , Lui Harvey , Korbelik Mladen , Zeng Haishan
Published: May 2010

We have developed a micro‐Raman spectrometer system for use to differentiate tumor lesions from normal skin using an in vivo animal model. A study of 494 Raman spectra from 24 mice revealed different spectral patterns at different depths and between normal and tumor‐bearing skin sites. A peak at 899 cm−1 (possibly from proline or fatty acids) and one with higher intensity in the 1325–1330 cm−1 range (assigned to nucleic acids) were correlated with the presence of tumors, which can potentially be used as biomarkers for skin cancer detection. Spectral diagnosis performed on the murine tumor model achieved a diagnostic sensitivity of 95.8% and specificity of 93.8%. These results encourage us to develop further the use of confocal Raman spectroscopy as a clinical tool for noninvasive human skin biochemical analysis, particularly in relation to skin cancer. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Integrated policy approach to mitigate soil erosion in West Flanders
Authors: Verspecht A. , Vandermeulen V. , De Bolle S. , Moeskops B. , Vermang J. , Van den Bossche A. , Van Huylenbroeck G. , De Neve S.
Published: May 2010

Soil erosion causes major on‐site problems, including the loss of productive topsoil, poor seedling emergence and soil crusting, all of which represent an important economic loss for farmers. Moreover, off‐site problems are also very serious. These include sedimentation of river basins and small streams and flooding of roads, all with significant costs to society. This article describes the situation in West Flanders, a province of Belgium. We discuss the severity of erosion, perceptions as to the erosion problem, the agricultural practices that can potentially counteract or avoid erosion and the types of policy that have been developed to control erosion. Using the Institutions of Sustainability (IoS) framework, we emphasise the importance of awareness and awareness raising with regard to the erosion problem in order to trigger policy and farming action. We describe the specific elements that have led to the design of different types of policy that try to limit soil erosion and increase the uptake of soil erosion control strategies by farmers. We conclude that a policy approach based on mixed instruments that are integrated at a local level can be successful in mitigating the erosion problem. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A new iterative refinement with roundoff error analysis
Authors: Wu Xinyuan , Wang Zhengyu
Published: May 2010

In this paper we present a novel improvement of Wilkinson's iterative refinement for the solution of linear system by using stability results of numerical solution for a dynamic system associated with the linear system. The convergence analysis is shown and roundoff error analysis is considered for this new refinement. Numerical experiments are accompanied to support our analysis. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A continuous–discontinuous approach to simulate physical degradation processes in porous media
Authors: Moonen P. , Sluys L. J. , Carmeliet J.
Published: May 2010

A macroscopic framework for the simulation of physical degradation processes in quasi‐brittle porous materials is proposed. The framework employs the partition of unity (PU) concept and introduces a cohesive zone model, capturing the entire failure process starting from the growth and coalescence of micro‐defects until the formation of macro‐cracks. The framework incorporates the interaction between the failure process and the heat and mass transfer in the porous medium. As an example, physical degradation of an outside render is studied. The analysis illustrates that both material and interface failure can be investigated with this formulation. Depending on the boundary conditions, either one dominant crack or a network of small cracks is formed. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
MicroRNA profiling of clear cell renal cell carcinoma by whole‐genome small RNA deep sequencing of paired frozen and formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded tissue specimens
Authors: Weng Lihong , Wu Xiwei , Gao Hanlin , Mu Bing , Li Xuejun , Wang Jin‐Hui , Guo Chao , Jin Jennifer M , Chen Zhuo , Covarrubias Maricela , Yuan Yate‐Ching , Weiss Lawrence M , Wu Huiqing
Published: May 2010

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer mortality. Characterization of microRNA (miRNA) expression of RCC will help disclose new pathogenic pathways in tumourigenesis and progression and may lead to the development of molecular biomarkers and target‐specific therapies for diagnosis, prognostication and treatment. With limitations in test specificity and the ability to detect novel miRNA and other small non‐coding RNAs (smRNAs), microarray and RT–PCR techniques are being replaced by the evolving deep‐sequencing technologies, at least in the discovery phase. Until now, cancer miRNA profiling of human benign and tumour specimen sets, using smRNA deep‐sequencing (smRNA‐seq), has not been reported. Specifically, due to concern over possible poor RNA quality/integrity, formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) samples have not been used for such studies. Here, we performed whole‐genome smRNA‐seq analysis using a benign and RCC specimen set and have successfully profiled the miRNA expression. Studies performed on paired frozen and FFPE specimens showed very similar results. Moreover, a comparison study of microarray, deep‐sequencing and RT–PCR methodologies also showed a high correlation among the three technologies. To our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate that FFPE specimens can be used reliably for miRNA deep‐sequencing analysis, making future large‐scale clinical cohort/trial‐based studies possible. Copyright © 2010 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Electroluminescence from isolated single indium gallium nitride quantum dots up to 150 K
Authors: Kalden J. , Tessarek C. , Sebald K. , Figge S. , Kruse C. , Hommel D. , Gutowski J.
Published: May 2010

We present light emitting diode structures with InGaN quantum dots (QDs) as active material grown by metal‐organic vapor‐phase epitaxy. The devices reveal a threshold voltage of 3.15 V at room temperature, or 8.8 V at 4 K, respectively. At room temperature, the electroluminescence intensity is still as high as 28% of the intensity at 4 K, the emission covering the spectral region from 2.3 to 2.7 eV at 4 K (2.2–2.6 eV at 300 K). Electrically driven luminescence from spectrally isolated single InGaN QDs emitting in the green spectral region is demonstrated with a thermal stability of up to 150 K. These results are an important step towards applications like electrically driven single photon emitters at elevated temperatures, which are desirable as a basis for communication techniques incorporating plastic optical fibers as well as for modern concepts of free space quantum cryptography.
MOVPE growth and characterization of a ‐plane AlGaN over the entire composition range
Authors: Laskar Masihhur R. , Ganguli Tapas , Rahman A. A. , Shah A. P. , Gokhale M. R. , Bhattacharya Arnab
Published: May 2010

We report the metal organic vapor phase epitaxy (MOVPE) growth and characterization of non‐polar (11$ \bar 2 $0) a ‐plane Alx Ga1–xN on (1$ \bar 1 $02) r ‐plane sapphire substrates over the entire composition range. Alx Ga1–xN samples with ∼0.8 μm thick layers and with x = 0, 0.18, 0.38, 0.46, 0.66, and 1.0 have been grown on r ‐plane sapphire substrates. The layer quality can be improved by using a 3‐stage AlN nucleation layer and appropriate V/III ratio switching following nucleation. All a ‐plane AlGaN epilayers show an anisotropic in‐plane mosaicity, strongly influenced by Al incorporation and growth conditions. Careful lattice parameter measurements show anisotropic in‐plane strain that results in an orthorhombic distortion of the hexagonal unit cell, making Al composition determination from X‐ray diffraction difficult. In general lower Al incorporation is seen in a ‐plane epilayers compared to c ‐plane samples grown under the same conditions. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Environmental factors related to anuran assemblage composition, richness and distribution at four large rivers under varied impact levels in southeastern Brazil
Authors: De Souza A. M. , Eterovick P. C.
Published: May 2010

The margins of large rivers are usually impacted by human settlements and activities, which may affect the occupancy and use of riparian habitats by many organisms. Among vertebrates, amphibians are likely the most sensitive to environmental changes, and they can be used as a model to identify attributes of the riparian habitats that are important for the maintenance of high species richness and functional diversity. We studied anuran assemblages in four large rivers of the Velhas River basin in southeastern Brazil during one year, focusing on features of the rivers and riparian habitats that influence species distribution. We tested whether a river under greater anthropogenic impact would shelter less species compared to three rivers of equivalent size under lower impact level, and whether lower species richness related to lower availability of preferred microhabitats. We found soil type at river margin and riparian vegetation structure to be the main factors influencing anuran distribution. Species richness was positively related to microhabitat diversity and availability of preferred microhabitats, which were the lowest in the most impacted river. Most species recorded at the rivers were not breeding there, and were present in larger numbers during the dry season, when temporary bodies of water dry at the vicinities of the large rivers. Conservation of a broad extension of the riparian habitat (200 m or more) would be efficient both to provide appropriate microhabitats for anurans and to maintain connectivity between breeding sites and large, permanent rivers used by several species during the dry season. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pancreaticoduodenectomy After Liver Transplantation in Patients with Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis Complicated by Distal Pancreatobiliary Malignancy
Authors: Sutcliffe Robert P. , Lam Wayne , O’Sullivan Adrian , Prachalias Andreas , Rela Mohamed , Heaton Nigel
Published: May 2010

Background

The aim of this study was to examine the use of pancreaticoduodenectomy for malignancy in patients who have undergone liver transplantation for primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC).

Methods

Patients who underwent simultaneous or sequential pancreaticoduodenectomy after liver transplantation were identified from a prospective transplant database. Preoperative, perioperative, and follow‐up data were collected by review of patients’ medical records.

Results

Four patients with PSC underwent simultaneous (1) or sequential (3) pancreaticoduodenectomy for the treatment of distal cholangiocarcinoma (2) or pancreatic adenocarcinoma (2). Postoperative complications occurred in two patients (1 pneumonia and 1 wound infection). Tumour resection margins were negative in all cases. Two patients with node‐negative tumours were disease‐free after 5 years and 23 months, and two patients with node‐positive tumours died of recurrence after 5 and 10 months.

Conclusions

Pancreaticoduodenectomy after liver transplantation can be performed with low morbidity in specialist centres with expertise in both liver transplantation and major pancreatic surgery. Patients with resectable disease should be treated aggressively, although long‐term results will be dictated by the histological stage of the tumour, particularly lymph node status.
A short‐term preemptive treatment for cytomegalovirus infection in seropositive patients after liver transplantation
Authors: Dahiya Divya , Lee Chen‐Fang , Chan Kun‐Ming , Wu Ting‐Jung , Chou Hong‐Shiue , Cheng Shin‐Shin , Lee Wei‐Chen
Published: May 2010

Background/purpose

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection remains a challenge following liver transplantation. Preemptive treatment is an effective strategy for CMV infection. However, how long preemptive treatment should be applied is not defined.

Methods

Clinical records of preemptive treatment for CMV infection in patients who underwent liver transplantation were collected. CMV antigenemia (pp65) was monitored weekly during hospital stay and subsequently on follow up whenever indicated clinically. Antiviral treatment was administered based on positive antigenemia (>1 positive cell per 500,000 leukocytes) and discontinued when antigenemia became negative.

Results

CMV infection was diagnosed in 58 (43.9%) of 132 liver transplantation patients. All 58 patients were seropositive for CMV before transplantation. CMV infection was first diagnosed at a median time of 20 days (interquartile range [IQR] 15.3–26) after transplantation. Twelve (20.7%) patients developed repeated infections. Only one of 58 patients (1.7%) was suspected to have invasive disease. The median (IQR) duration of antiviral treatment was 7 (7–12) days. Of these patients with CMV infection, 14 (24.1%) patients developed acute rejection peri‐anti‐CMV treatment and 36 (62.1%) developed other infectious complications.

Conclusion

Preemptive treatment is an effective way to halt the progression of asymptomatic CMV infection. A brief course of antiviral treatment is enough for seropositive patients with CMV infection after liver transplantation.
Determinants of Standard Errors of MLEs in Confirmatory Factor Analysis
Authors: Yuan Ke-Hai , Cheng Ying , Zhang Wei
Published: May 2010

This paper studies changes of standard errors (SE) of the normal-distribution-based maximum likelihood estimates (MLE) for confirmatory factor models as model parameters vary. Using logical analysis, simplified formulas and numerical verification, monotonic relationships between SEs and factor loadings as well as unique variances are found. Conditions under which monotonic relationships do not exist are also identified. Such functional relationships allow researchers to better understand the problem when significant factor loading estimates are expected but not obtained, and vice versa. What will affect the likelihood for Heywood cases (negative unique variance estimates) is also explicit through these relationships. Empirical findings in the literature are discussed using the obtained results.
Multicoordinated agreement for groups of agents
Authors: Camargos Lasaro , Schmidt Rodrigo , Madeira Edmundo , Pedone Fernando
Published: May 2010

Agents in agreement protocols play well-distinct roles. Proposers propose values to the acceptors, which will accept proposals and inform the learners so they detect that an agreement has been reached. A fourth role is that of the coordinator, who filters the proposals from proposers to acceptors. While proposers, learners, and coordinators are easily replaced, substituting an acceptor is prohibitive. Protocols that do not employ a coordinator are less resilient to acceptor failures. Protocols that use one coordinator are more resilient to acceptor failures, at the expense of one extra communication step even in the absence of failures. Moreover, they require replacing the coordinator as soon as it fails, a reconfiguration that, although relatively inexpensive, diminishes the protocol availability. Hence, either option, i.e., one or zero coordinator, has its drawbacks. In previous works, we have presented an alternative: multicoordinated agreement protocols. Such protocols are as resilient as single-coordinated protocols but require less reconfiguration to cope with coordinator failures. In fact, most reconfiguration can be done in parallel to the execution of the protocol’s normal steps. Multicoordination can be applied to several problems. In this paper we exemplify its use in solving consensus and then introduce a fast multicoordinated agreement protocol for agents organized in groups, an abstraction for fast local area networks interconnected by slower links.
Evolution support in heterogeneous service-oriented landscapes
Authors: Margaria Tiziana , Steffen Bernhard , Kubczak Christian
Published: May 2010

We present an approach that provides automatic or semi-automatic support for evolution and change management in heterogeneous legacy landscapes where (1) legacy heterogeneous, possibly distributed platforms are integrated in a service oriented fashion, (2) the coordination of functionality is provided at the service level, through orchestration, (3) compliance and correctness are provided through policies and business rules, (4) evolution and correctness-by-design are supported by the eXtreme Model Driven Development paradigm (XMDD) offered by the jABC (Margaria and Steffen in Annu. Rev. Commun. 57, 2004)—the model-driven service oriented development platform we use here for integration, design, evolution, and governance. The artifacts are here semantically enriched, so that automatic synthesis plugins can field the vision of Enterprise Physics: knowledge driven business process development for the end user.

We demonstrate this vision along a concrete case study that became over the past three years a benchmark for Semantic Web Service discovery and mediation. We enhance the Mediation Scenario of the Semantic Web Service Challenge along the 2 central evolution paradigms that occur in practice: (a) Platform migration: platform substitution of a legacy system by an ERP system and (b) Backend extension: extension of the legacy Customer Relationship Management (CRM) and Order Management System (OMS) backends via an additional ERP layer.
OWL schema matching
Authors: Leme Luiz André P. Paes , Casanova Marco A. , Breitman Karin K. , Furtado Antonio L.
Published: May 2010

Schema matching is a fundamental issue to many database applications, such as query mediation and data warehousing. It becomes a challenge when different vocabularies are used to refer to the same real-world concepts. In this context, a convenient approach, sometimes called extensional, instance-based, or semantic, is to detect how the same real world objects are represented in different databases and to use the information thus obtained to match the schemas. Additionally, we argue that automatic approaches of schema matching should store provenance data about matchings. This paper describes an instance-based schema matching technique for an OWL dialect and proposes a data model for storing provenance data. The matching technique is based on similarity functions and is backed up by experimental results with real data downloaded from data sources found on the Web.
Primary infertility and health‐related quality of life in Upper Egypt
Authors: Hassanin Ibrahim M.A. , Abd‐El‐Raheem Taher , Shahin Ahmed Y.
Published: May 2010

Objective

To assess the effect of infertility on the health‐related quality of life and sexual function of infertile women in Upper Egypt.

Method

The Quality‐of‐Life Questionnaire (QLQ) C30, version 2, and a visual analog scale were used to assess the quality of life and sexual satisfaction of 116 women with primary infertility and 116 fertile women with similar sociodemographic characteristics. We also looked for associations between the results and infertility duration.

Results

Compared with the fertile women, the women with primary infertility had significantly lower scores for both health‐related quality of life and sexual function, and their sexual function was the most disturbed during the fourth, fifth, and sixth years of their marriage.

Conclusion

Women with primary infertility need to be treated medically and psychologically to improve their quality of life and sexual function.
Outcome of endoscopic sinus surgery for chronic rhinosinusitis patients: a Canadian experience
Authors: Al Badaai Y , Samaha M
Published: May 2010

Objectives:

To determine the effect on patients' quality of life of functional endoscopic sinus surgery performed for chronic rhinosinusitis within a tertiary care centre in Montreal, Canada.

Methods:

A prospective cohort study was undertaken. Subjects were consecutive patients with a diagnosis of chronic rhinosinusitis who had failed medical treatment and were undergoing functional endoscopic sinus surgery. Questionnaires assessing general health outcomes (i.e. the second version of the Short Form 12 questionnaire) and disease-specific outcomes (i.e. the Chronic Sinusitis Survey) were completed pre-operatively and a minimum of three months post-operatively.

Results:

A total of 152 patients were enrolled over a seven-month period, of whom 120 completed the post-operative surveys. The most common co-morbidity was asthma (40 per cent). Of the 120 patients with completed questionnaires, 72 per cent reported clinical improvement, 12 per cent reported deterioration and 15 per cent remained unchanged. The average improvement in Chronic Sinusitis Survey score was 17 per cent.

Conclusion:

Patients with chronic rhinosinusitis achieved a significant improvement in disease-specific quality of life after functional endoscopic sinus surgery. There was no significant improvement in general health related quality of life, as measured using the Short Form 12 questionnaire.
Norovirus disease associated with excess mortality and use of statins: a retrospective cohort study of an outbreak following a pilgrimage to Lourdes
Authors: RONDY M. , KOOPMANS M. , ROTSAERT C. , VAN LOON T. , BELJAARS B. , VAN DIJK G. , SIEBENGA J. , SVRAKA S. , ROSSEN J. W. A. , TEUNIS P. , VAN PELT W. , VERHOEF L.
Published: May 2010

Although norovirus infection is generally known to be a mild disease, there is some evidence for severe outcome. An outbreak in a Dutch psychiatric institution, originating from pilgrims returning from Lourdes (France), provided an opportunity for performing a retrospective cohort study in order to identify risk factors for norovirus disease and excess mortality. Relative risks (RR) including 95% confidence intervals (CI) showed that attending the pilgrimage (RR 2·0, 95% CI 1·4–3·0) and age >70 (RR 1·7, 95% CI 1·2–2·2) were risk factors for symptomatic infection. In a subset of patients, for whom more detailed information was available, the use of statins was associated with norovirus disease when adjusted for underlying condition (adjusted odds ratio 3·9, 95% CI 1·2–13·0). Mortality was higher in cases infected during the pilgrimage compared to other residents (RR 20·9, 95% CI 4·7–93·8). Norovirus disease can lead to severe outcome. The newly identified risk of statins for contracting norovirus disease may have considerable consequences for the Western world and needs prospective confirmation.
Decreased prevalence and age-specific risk factors for Toxoplasma gondii IgG antibodies in The Netherlands between 1995/1996 and 2006/2007
Authors: HOFHUIS A. , VAN PELT W. , VAN DUYNHOVEN Y. T. H. P. , NIJHUIS C. D. M. , MOLLEMA L. , VAN DER KLIS F. R. M. , HAVELAAR A. H. , KORTBEEK L. M.
Published: May 2010

To estimate the change in the seroprevalence and risk factors for toxoplasmosis in The Netherlands, a study was conducted in the general population in 2006/2007, similarly designed as a previous study in 1995/1996. Testing 5541 sera for IgG antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii showed a marked decrease of the overall seroprevalence to 26·0% [95% confidence interval (CI) 24·0–28·0], compared to 40·5% (95% CI 37·5–43·4) in 1995/1996. In women of reproductive age the seroprevalence decreased from 35·2% (95% CI 32·9–38·6) in 1995/1996 to 18·5% (95% CI 16·2–20·7) in 2006/2007, leaving the majority of pregnant women susceptible to primary infection with T. gondii and their babies to congenital toxoplasmosis. In participants aged ⩾20 years, Toxoplasma seropositivity was associated with living in the Northwest, living in urban areas, low educational level, consumption of raw pork, keeping a cat, and not having occupational contact with clients or patients. For younger participants, risk factors were keeping sheep or cattle, consumption of raw unwashed vegetables and putting sand in the mouth.
Re-emergence of rabies in dogs and other domestic animals in eastern Bhutan, 2005–2007
Authors: TENZIN  , DHAND N. K. , DORJEE J. , WARD M. P.
Published: May 2010

We report a major outbreak of rabies in dogs and other domestic animals that occurred in eastern Bhutan between May 2005 and November 2007. The outbreak peaked in February 2006 and subsided by the end of April 2006 with sporadic cases reported until November 2007. Rabies affected 18 of the 40 sub-districts in the three eastern districts of Bhutan. There were reportedly one human and 256 domestic animal fatalities. The outbreak affected cattle (n=141, 55%), dogs (n=106, 41%), horses (n=7, 3%) and cats (n=2, 1%). Rabies was primarily diagnosed by clinical signs but 36 cases were confirmed by fluorescent antibody test of brain samples. High densities and movements of free-roaming dogs might have been responsible for the rapid spread and persistence of the infection for a longer period than expected in dogs in eastern Bhutan.
Risk factors for sporadicCampylobacter jejuniinfections in children in a Greek region
Authors: MELLOU K. , SOURTZI P. , TSAKRIS A. , SAROGLOU G. , VELONAKIS E.
Published: May 2010

A case-control study was conducted in the urban area of Attica, Greece to investigate risk factors for sporadicCampylobacter jejuniinfections in children aged <15 years. Over a 2-year period, 205 cases and 205 controls, matched by age group (<1, 1–4, 5–9, 10–14 years) and gender, were selected from the registries of the paediatric hospitals of this area. In conditional multivariate logistic regression analysis, ethnicity [odds ratio (OR) 5·06, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2·49–10·28], consumption of chicken the week prior to disease onset (OR 1·97, 95% CI 1·10–3·55) and playing in the garden (OR 1·83, 95% CI 1·05–3·19) were independently associated with disease occurrence; consumption of raw vegetables was a ‘protective’ factor (OR 0·48, 95% CI 0·27–0·85).
Serum antibodies toVibrio vulnificusbiotype 3 lipopolysaccharide and susceptibility to disease caused by the homologousV. vulnificusbiotype
Authors: BISHARAT N. , BIALIK A. , PAZ E. , AMARO C. , COHEN D. I.
Published: May 2010

In 1996 an outbreak of severe soft tissue infections caused byVibrio vulnificusunexpectedly erupted in fish consumers in Israel with relatively little morbidity in fish farmers. To test the hypothesis that recurrent exposure of fishermen to the virulent strain may have provided protection against severe or symptomatic disease, we investigated the association between the immune response toV. vulnificusbiotype 3 lipopolysaccharide (BT3 LPS) and disease susceptibility in fish farmers and fish consumers. Serum samples were tested for IgA and IgG of anti-BT3 LPS in fishermen and fish consumers who suffered fromV. vulnificusBT3 infections and their matched controls. Pre-existing levels of IgG (IgG0) of anti-BT3 LPS were significantly lower in diseased fishermen who developed disease associated with the homologous biotype, compared to controls. In multivariate analysis, levels of IgG0anti-BT3 LPS remained the only variable significantly associated with disease occurrence in fishermen. Higher levels of pre-existing IgG anti-BT 3 LPS antibodies may be associated with protection against severe or symptomatic disease with the homologous biotype in fishermen but not in subjects from the general public.
Three‐dimensional simulations of outer radiation belt electron dynamics including cross‐diffusion terms
Authors: Xiao Fuliang , Su Zhenpeng , Zheng Huinan , Wang Shui
Published: May 2010

Using our recently introduced hybrid finite difference method, we develop a three‐dimensional (3‐D) code to solve a fully bounce‐averaged pitch‐angle and energy diffusion equation, including radial diffusion and particularly the cross‐diffusion terms. We show that our 3‐D code can successfully prevent the unstable numerical problems resulting from the large and rapidly varying cross diffusion coefficients. We present one of the first simulations to examine the effects of radial diffusion and chorus‐electron interaction with/without cross diffusion terms on the radiation belt electron dynamics. Simulated results demonstrate that chorus waves may yield significant accelerations of energetic (∼MeV) electrons, leading to peaks in phase space density (PSD), which are subsequently smoothed by inward and outward radial diffusion. Moreover, neglecting cross‐diffusion rates generally produces relatively large overestimates in the PSD evolution, implying that cross diffusion terms are very critical in the 3‐D modeling of radiation belts dynamics. However, test case simulations show that such overestimates are sensitively dependent on the initial conditions together with wave models, deserving further thorough investigations.
Occurrence statistics and ray tracing study of Jovian quasiperiodic radio bursts observed from low latitudes
Authors: Kimura Tomoki , Tsuchiya Fuminori , Misawa Hiroaki , Morioka Akira , Nozawa Hiromasa
Published: May 2010

The occurrence characteristics of Jovian quasiperiodic (QP) bursts at a VLF range (<10 kHz) were statistically investigated using data from the Galileo spacecraft at low latitudes in the Jovian magnetosphere. The results confirmed that the occurrence of QP bursts is significantly dependent on the phase of planetary rotation rather than the central meridian longitude of the observer seen from Jupiter. It was revealed that the meridional distribution of QP bursts forms a shadow zone in the equatorial region of <30 Jovian radii from Jupiter, similar to that of hectometric radio emissions, where QP bursts are quenched. Based on the ray tracing method, we surveyed the source parameters, which can reproduce the observed shadow zone. It was suggested that the wave mode, source location, and directivity of the radio emissions are as follows: the extraordinary mode is reasonable for QP bursts observed at low latitudes, the source is located around an altitude of ∼10–20 Jovian radii above the polar region, the L value of the source field line is in a range of L > ∼20, and QP bursts could have beaming angles like “filled cone” in a restricted L value range or have a large source L value range with beaming angles like “hollow cones.” These results imply that QP bursts observed at low latitudes are generated at fRX surfaces in the polar region and propagate to the equatorial region.
Identification, characterization, and change of the near‐surface temperature maximum in the Canada Basin, 1993–2008
Authors: Jackson J. M. , Carmack E. C. , McLaughlin F. A. , Allen S. E. , Ingram R. G.
Published: May 2010

Sea ice in the Canada Basin of the Arctic Ocean has decreased significantly in recent years, and this will likely change the properties of the surface waters. A near‐surface temperature maximum (NSTM) at typical depths of 25–35 m has been previously described; however, its formation mechanisms, seasonal evolution, and interannual variability have not been established. Based on summertime conductivity, temperature, and depth surveys and year‐round Ice‐Tethered Profiler data from 2005 to 2008, we found that the NSTM forms when sufficient solar radiation warms the upper ocean. A seasonal halocline forms in summer once enough sea ice melt has accumulated to separate the surface mixed layer from the NSTM. The NSTM becomes trapped below the summer halocline, thereby storing heat from solar radiation. This heat can be stored year‐round in the Canada Basin if the halocline is strong enough to persist through winter. In addition, energy from storm‐driven mixing can weaken the summer halocline and entrain the NSTM, thereby melting sea ice in winter. Throughout this cycle, Ekman pumping within the convergent Beaufort Gyre acts to deepen the NSTM. From 1993 through 2007, the NSTM warmed and expanded northward and both the NSTM and the summer halocline formed at successively shallower depths. North of 75°N, the temperature of the NSTM increased from 2004 to 2007 by 0.13°C/yr, and the NSTM and summer halocline shoaled by 2.1 m/yr and 1.7 m/yr, respectively, from 1997 to 2007. The formation and dynamics of the NSTM are manifestations of both the ice‐albedo feedback effect and changes to the freshwater cycle in the Canada Basin.
Atmospheric warming at a high‐elevation tropical site revealed by englacial temperatures at Illimani, Bolivia (6340 m above sea level, 16°S, 67°W)
Authors: Gilbert A. , Wagnon P. , Vincent C. , Ginot P. , Funk M.
Published: May 2010

In June 1999, a deep (138.7 m) ice core was extracted from the summit glacier of Illimani, Bolivia (6340 m above sea level, 16°39′S, 67°47′W), and an englacial temperature profile was measured in the borehole. Using on‐site and regional meteorological data as well as ice core stratigraphy, past surface temperatures were reconstructed with a heat flow model. The englacial temperature measurements exhibit a profile that is far from a steady state, reflecting an increasing atmospheric temperature over several years and nonstationary climatic conditions. Englacial temperature interpretation, using air temperature data, borehole temperature inversion, and melting rate quantification based on ice core density, shows two warming phases from 1900 to 1960 (+0.5 ± 0.3 K starting approximately in 1920–1930) and from 1985 to 1999 (+0.6 ± 0.2 K), corresponding to a mean atmospheric temperature rise of 1.1 ± 0.2 K over the 20th century. According to various climate change scenarios, the future evolution of englacial temperatures was simulated to estimate when and under what conditions this high‐elevation site on the Illimani summit glacier could become temperate in the future. Results show that this glacier might remain cold for more than 90 years in the case of a +2 K rise over the 21st century but could become temperate in the first 20 m depth between 2050 and 2060 if warming reaches +5 K.
Influence of climate change and uplift on Colorado Plateau paleotemperatures from carbonate clumped isotope thermometry
Authors: Huntington K. W. , Wernicke B. P. , Eiler J. M.
Published: May 2010

The elevation history of Earth's surface is key to understanding the geodynamic processes responsible for the rise of plateaus. We investigate the timing of Colorado Plateau uplift by estimating depositional temperatures of Tertiary lake sediments that blanket the plateau interior and adjacent lowlands using carbonate clumped isotope paleothermometry (a measure of the temperature‐dependent enrichment of 13C‐18O bonds in carbonates). Comparison of modern and ancient samples deposited near sea level provides an opportunity to quantify the influence of climate and therefore assess the contribution of changes in elevation to the variations of surface temperature on the plateau. Analysis of modern lake calcite from 350 to 3300 m elevation in the southwestern United States reveals a lake water carbonate temperature (LCT) lapse rate of 4.2 ± 0.6°C/km. Analysis of Miocene deposits from 88 to 1900 m elevation in the Colorado River drainage suggests that the ancient LCT lapse rate was 4.1 ± 0.7°C/km, and temperatures were 7.7 ± 2.0°C warmer at any one elevation than predicted by the modern trend. The inferred cooling is plausible in light of Pliocene temperature estimates off the coast of California, and the consistency of lapse rates through time supports the interpretation that there has been little or no elevation change for any of the samples since 6 Ma. Together with previous paleorelief estimates from apatite (U‐Th)/He data from the Grand Canyon, our results suggest most or all of the plateau's lithospheric buoyancy was acquired ∼80–60 Ma and do not support explanations that ascribe most plateau uplift to Oligocene or younger disposal of either the Farallon or North American mantle lithosphere.
Origin of volcanic seamounts at the continental margin of California related to changes in plate margins
Authors: Davis A. S. , Clague D. A. , Paduan J. B. , Cousens B. L. , Huard J.
Published: May 2010

Volcanic samples collected with the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute's ROV Tiburon from eight seamounts at the continental margin offshore central to southern California comprise a diverse suite of mainly alkalic basalt to trachyte but also include rare tholeiitic basalt and basanite. All samples experienced complex crystal fractionation probably near the crust/mantle boundary, based on the presence in some of mantle xenoliths. Incompatible trace elements, poorly correlated with isotopic compositions, suggest variable degrees of partial melting of compositionally heterogeneous mantle sources, ranging from MORB‐like to relatively enriched OIB. High‐precision 40Ar/39Ar ages indicate episodes of volcanic activity mainly from 16 to 7 Ma but document one eruption as recent as 2.8 Ma at San Juan Seamount. Synchronous episodes of volcanism occurred at geographically widely separated locations offshore and within the continental borderland. Collectively, the samples from these seamounts have age ranges and chemical compositions similar to those from Davidson Seamount, identified as being located atop an abandoned spreading center. These seamounts appear to have a common origin ultimately related to abandonment and partial subduction of spreading center segments when the plate boundary changed from subduction‐dominated to a transform margin. They differ in composition, age, and origin from other more widespread near‐ridge seamounts, which commonly have circular plans with nested calderas, and from age progressive volcanoes in linear arrays, such as the Fieberling‐Guadalupe chain, that occur in the same region. Each volcanic episode represents decompression melting of discrete enriched material in the suboceanic mantle with melts rising along zones of weakness in the oceanic crust fabric. The process may be aided by transtensional tectonics related to continued faulting along the continental margin.
Arctic organic aerosol measurements show particles from mixed combustion in spring haze and from frost flowers in winter
Authors: Shaw P. M. , Russell L. M. , Jefferson A. , Quinn P. K.
Published: May 2010

Submicron atmospheric aerosol particles were collected between 1 March 2008 and 1 March 2009 at Barrow, Alaska, to characterize the organic mass (OM) in the Arctic aerosol. Organic functional group concentrations and trace metals were measured with FTIR on submicron particles collected on Teflon filters. The OM varied from 0.07 μg m−3 in summer to 0.43 μg m−3 in winter, and 0.35 μg m−3 in spring, showing a transition in OM composition between spring and winter. Most of the OM in spring could be attributed to anthropogenic sources, consisting primarily of alkane and carboxylic acid functional groups and correlated to elemental tracers of industrial pollution, biomass burning, and shipping emissions. PMF analysis associated OM with two factors, a Mixed Combustion factor (MCF) and an Ocean‐derived factor (ODF). Back trajectory analysis revealed that the highest fractions of the MCF were associated with air masses that had originated from northeastern Asia and the shipping lanes south of the Bering Straits. The ODF consisted of organic hydroxyl groups and correlated with organic and inorganic seawater components. The ODF accounted for more than 55% of OM in winter when the sampled air masses originated along the coastal and lake regions of the Northwest Territories of Canada. Frost flowers with organic‐salt coatings that arise by brine rejection during sea ice formation may account for this large source of carbohydrate‐like OM during the ice‐covered winter season. While the anthropogenic sources contributed more than 0.3 μg m−3 of the springtime haze OM, ocean‐derived particles provided comparable OM sources in winter.