bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tobacco Control: Visualisation of Research Activity Using Density-Equalizing Mapping and Scientometric Benchmarking Procedures
Authors: Kusma Bianca , Scutaru Cristian , Quarcoo David , Welte Tobias , Fischer Tanja  C. , Groneberg-Kloft Beatrix
Published: June 2009

Background: Tobacco smoking continues to be a major preventable cause of death and disease and therefore tobacco control research is extremely important. However, research in this area is often hampered by a lack in funding and there is a need for scientometric techniques to display research efforts. Methods: The present study combines classical bibliometric tools with novel scientometric and visualizing techniques in order to analyse and categorise research in the field of tobacco control. Results: All studies related to tobacco control and listed in the ISI database since 1900 were identified by the use of defined search terms.Using bibliometric approaches, a continuous increase in qualitative markers such as collaboration numbers or citations were found for tobacco control research. The combination with density equalizing mapping revealed a distinct global pattern of research productivity and citation activity. Radar chart techniques were used to visualize bi- and multilateral research cooperation and institutional cooperation. Conclusions: The present study supplies a first scientometricapproach that visualises research activity in the field of tobacco control. It provides data that can be used for funding policy and the identification of research clusters.
Exact Weighted-FBP Algorithm for Three-Orthogonal-Circular Scanning Reconstruction
Authors: Hu Hongli , Zhang Jianzhou
Published: June 2009

Recently, 3D image fusion reconstruction using a FDK algorithm along threeorthogonal circular isocentric orbits has been proposed. On the other hand, we know that 3D image reconstruction based on three-orthogonal circular isocentric orbits is sufficient in the sense of Tuy data sufficiency condition. Therefore the datum obtained from three-orthogonal circular isocentric orbits can derive an exact reconstruction algorithm. In this paper, an exact weighted-FBP algorithm with three-orthogonal circular isocentric orbits is derived by means of Katsevich’s equations of filtering lines based on a circle trajectory and a modified weighted form of Tuy’s reconstruction scheme.
Immobilization of HRP in Mesoporous Silica and Its Application for the Construction of Polyaniline Modified Hydrogen Peroxide Biosensor
Authors: Chen Chien-Chung , Do Jing-Shan , Gu Yesong
Published: June 2009

Polyaniline (PANI), an attractive conductive polymer, has been successfully applied in fabricating various types of enzyme-based biosensors. In this study, we have employed mesoporous silica SBA-15 to stably entrap horseradish peroxidase (HRP), and then deposited the loaded SBA-15 on the PANI modified platinum electrode to construct a GA/SBA-15(HRP)/PANI/Pt biosensor. The mesoporous structures and morphologies of SBA-15 with or without HRP were characterized. Enzymatic protein assays were employed to evaluate HRP immobilization efficiency. Our results demonstrated that the constructed biosensor displayed a fine linear correlation between cathodic response and H2O2 concentration in the range of 0.02 to 18.5 mM, with enhanced sensitivity. In particular, the current approach provided the PANI modified biosensor with improved stability for multiple measurements.
Environmental Management, Sustainable Development and Human Health. Edited by Eddie N. Laboy-Nieves, Fred C. Schaffner, Ahmed Abdelhadi, Mattheus F.A. Goosen. CRC Press, London, 2009. XIV, 577 pp., Hardcover.179.95. ISBN: 978-0-415-46963-0
Authors: Lin Shu-Kun
Published: June 2009

Although on the publisher’s website for this book [1], chapter numbers are given, in the copy of the book I received there are no chapter numbers in the Table of Contents, even though in the main text, cross references are made and the chapter numbers are mentioned. This book is divided into the following sections: [...]
Passive Radiofrequency Identification (RFID) Chemical Sensors for Homeland Security Applications
Authors: Potyrailo Radislav A. , Surman Cheryl , Morris William G.
Published: June 2009

This article provides a brief overview of chemical and biological threats, focuses in detail on modern concepts in chemical sensing, examines the origins of the most significant unmet needs in existing chemical sensors, and introduces a new philosophy in selective chemical sensing. This new approach for selective chemical sensing involves the combination of a sensing material that has different response mechanisms to different species of interest with a transducer that has a multivariable signal transduction ability to detect these independent changes. This new selective chemical‐sensing approach was realized using an attractive ubiquitous platform of battery‐free passive radiofrequency identification (RFID) tags adapted for chemical sensing. In the numerous laboratory and field experiments, the action of several response mechanisms in a single sensing film to different vapors was demonstrated, which resulted in the independent detection of these responses with individual RFID sensors and correction for variable ambient conditions, including high levels of ambient relative humidity (RH). Performance of developed RFID sensors is illustrated in measurements of toxic industrial materials (TIMs) with the detection limit of 15–80 ppb, humidity‐independent (0–76% RH) detection of toxic organic vapors, and selective determination of blood chemical agent (CA) simulants with individual sensors.
Parkin gene modifies the effect of RLS4 on the age at onset of restless legs syndrome (RLS)
Authors: Pichler Irene , Marroni Fabio , Pattaro Cristian , Lohmann Katja , de Grandi Alessandro , Klein Christine , Hicks Andrew A. , Pramstaller Peter P.
Published: June 2009

A co‐occurrence of restless legs syndrome (RLS) and Parkin mutations has been described. In South Tyrolean RLS patients, a novel RLS locus has been found (RLS4) and recurrent Parkin mutations have been reported. By a systematic screen we investigated the presence of founder Parkin mutations in South Tyrolean RLS patients with known carrier status at the RLS4 locus and assessed whether these mutations alone or in combination influence the RLS phenotype measured by three quantitative RLS traits (age at onset (AAO) and two severity measurements). The Parkin mutation alone showed no effect, whereas RLS4 had a significant effect on the AAO (P = 0.0096, decrease of AAO of 9.1 years), but did not influence severity. Carriers of both, a Parkin mutation and the RLS4 haplotype, showed an association with AAO (P = 0.0016), corresponding to an anticipation of RLS onset age of 16.9 years. However, there was no effect on the disease severity. Our results suggest that the occurrence of a heterozygous Parkin mutation works in tandem with the gene at the RLS4 locus to lower the AAO in RLS. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The tryptophan hydroxylase 1 (TPH1) gene, schizophrenia susceptibility, and suicidal behavior: A multi‐centre case–control study and meta‐analysis
Authors: Saetre Peter , Lundmark Per , Wang August , Hansen Thomas , Rasmussen Henrik B. , Djurovic Srdjan , Melle Ingrid , Andreassen Ole A. , Werge Thomas , Agartz Ingrid , Hall Håkan , Terenius Lars , Jönsson Erik G.
Published: June 2009

Serotonin (5‐hydroxytryptamin; 5‐HT) alternations has since long been suspected in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. Tryptophan hydroxylase (tryptophan 5‐monooxygenase; TPH) is the rate‐limiting enzyme in the biosynthesis of 5‐HT, and sequence variation in intron 6 of the TPH1 gene has been associated with schizophrenia. The minor allele (A) of this polymorphism (A218C) is also more frequent in patients who have attempted suicide and individuals who died by suicide, than in healthy control individuals. In an attempt to replicate previous findings, five single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were genotyped in 837 Scandinavian schizophrenia patients and 1,473 controls. Three SNPs spanning intron 6 and 7, including the A218C and A779C polymorphisms, were associated with schizophrenia susceptibility (P = 0.019). However there were no differences in allele frequencies of these loci between affected individuals having attempted suicide at least once and patients with no history of suicide attempts (P = 0.84). A systematic literature review and meta‐analysis support the A218C polymorphism as a susceptibility locus for schizophrenia (odds ratio 1.17, 95% confidence interval 1.07–1.29). Association studies on suicide attempts are however conflicting (heterogeneity index I2 = 0.54) and do not support the A218C/A779C polymorphisms being a susceptibility locus for suicidal behavior among individuals diagnosed with a psychiatric disorder (OR = 0.96 [0.80–1.16]). We conclude that the TPH1 A218/A779 locus increases the susceptibility of schizophrenia in Caucasian and Asian populations. In addition, the data at hand suggest that the locus contributes to the liability of psychiatric disorders characterized by elevated suicidal rates, rather than affecting suicidal behavior of individuals suffering from a psychiatric disorder. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Common weaknesses in traditional abstracts in the social sciences
Authors: Hartley James , Betts Lucy
Published: June 2009

Detailed checklists and questionnaires have been used in the past to assess the quality of structured abstracts in the medical sciences. The aim of this article is to report the findings when a simpler checklist was used to evaluate the quality of 100 traditional abstracts published in 53 different social science journals. Most of these abstracts contained information about the aims, methods, and results of the studies. However, many did not report details about the sample sizes, ages, or sexes of the participants, or where the research was carried out. The correlation between the lengths of the abstracts and the amount of information present was 0.37 (p < .001), suggesting that word limits for abstracts may restrict the presence of key information to some extent. We conclude that authors can improve the quality of information in traditional abstracts in the social sciences by using the simple checklist provided in this article.
A decision support system for public research organizations participating in national research assessment exercises
Authors: Abramo Giovanni , D'Angelo Ciriaco Andrea
Published: June 2009

We are witnessing a rapid trend toward the adoption of exercises for evaluation of national research systems, generally based on peer review. They respond to two main needs: stimulating higher efficiency in research activities by public laboratories, and realizing better allocative efficiency in government funding of such institutions. However, the peer review approach is typified by several limitations that raise doubts for the achievement of the ultimate objectives. In particular, subjectivity of judgment, which occurs during the step of selecting research outputs to be submitted for the evaluations, risks heavily distorting both the final ratings of the organizations evaluated and the ultimate funding they receive. These distortions become ever more relevant if the evaluation is limited to small samples of the scientific production of the research institutions. The objective of the current study is to propose a quantitative methodology based on bibliometric data that would provide a reliable support for the process of selecting the best products of a laboratory, and thus limit distortions. Benefits are twofold: single research institutions can maximize the probability of receiving a fair evaluation coherent with the real quality of their research. At the same time, broader adoptions of this approach could also provide strong advantages at the macroeconomic level, since it guarantees financial allocations based on the real value of the institutions under evaluation. In this study the proposed methodology was applied to the hard science sectors of the Italian university research system for the period 2004–2006.
Applying centrality measures to impact analysis: A coauthorship network analysis
Authors: Yan Erjia , Ding Ying
Published: June 2009

Many studies on coauthorship networks focus on network topology and network statistical mechanics. This article takes a different approach by studying micro‐level network properties with the aim of applying centrality measures to impact analysis. Using coauthorship data from 16 journals in the field of library and information science (LIS) with a time span of 20 years (1988–2007), we construct an evolving coauthorship network and calculate four centrality measures (closeness centrality, betweenness centrality, degree centrality, and PageRank) for authors in this network. We find that the four centrality measures are significantly correlated with citation counts. We also discuss the usability of centrality measures in author ranking and suggest that centrality measures can be useful indicators for impact analysis.
A robust approach for assessing misclassification rates under the two‐component measurement error model
Authors: Cocchi Daniela , Scagliarini Michele
Published: June 2009

The majority of actions designed to improve processes and quality include the assessment of the capability of a measurement system. The statistical model relating the measured value to the true, but not observable, value of a product characteristic is usually Gaussian and additive. In this paper we propose to extend the said model to a more general formulation by introducing the structure of the two‐component error model. An approximated method for evaluating the misclassification rates under the two‐component error model is proposed and assessed. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Central vasopressin and oxytocin receptor distributions in two species of singing mice
Authors: Campbell Polly , Ophir Alexander G. , Phelps Steven M.
Published: June 2009

The neuropeptides arginine vasopressin (AVP) and oxytocin (OT) are key modulators of vertebrate sociality. Although some general behavioral functions of AVP and OT are broadly conserved, the detailed consequences of peptide release seem to be regulated by species‐specific patterns of receptor distribution. We used autoradiography to characterize central vasopressin 1a receptor (V1aR) and OT receptor (OTR) distributions in two species of singing mice, ecologically specialized Central American rodents with a highly developed form of vocal communication. While both species exhibited high V1aR binding in the auditory thalamus (medial geniculate), binding in structures involved in vocal production (periaqueductal gray and anterior hypothalamus) was significantly higher in the more vocal species, Scotinomys teguina. In S. xerampelinus, receptor binding was significantly higher in a suite of interconnected structures implicated in social and spatial memory, including OTR in the hippocampus and medial amygdala, and V1aR in the anterior and laterodorsal thalamus. This pattern is concordant with species differences in population density and social spacing, which should favor enhanced sociospatial memory in S. xerampelinus. We propose that V1aR and OTR distributions in singing mice support an integral role for the AVP/OT system in several aspects of sociality, including vocal communication and sociospatial memory. J. Comp. Neurol. 516:321–333, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Increased proximal bifurcation of CA1 pyramidal apical dendrites in sema3A mutant mice
Authors: Nakamura Fumio , Ugajin Kozue , Yamashita Naoya , Okada Takako , Uchida Yutaka , Taniguchi Masahiko , Ohshima Toshio , Goshima Yoshio
Published: June 2009

Semaphorin‐3A (Sema3A) is an attractive guidance molecule for cortical apical dendrites. To elucidate the role of Sema3A in hippocampal dendritic formation, we examined the Sema3A expression pattern in the perinatal hippocampal formation and analyzed hippocampal dendrites of the brains from young adult sema3A mutant mice. Sema3A protein was predominantly expressed in the hippocampal plate and the inner marginal zone at the initial period of apical dendritic growth. Neuropilin‐1 and plexin‐A, the receptor components for Sema3A, were also localized in the same regions. The Golgi impregnation method revealed that in wildtype mice more than 90% of hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons extended a single trunk or apical trunks bifurcated in stratum radiatum. Seven percent of the pyramidal neurons showed proximal bifurcation of apical trunks in stratum pyramidale or at the border of the stratum pyramidale and stratum radiatum. In sema3A mutant mice, proximally bifurcated apical dendrites were increased to 32%, while the single apical dendritic pyramidal neurons were decreased. We designate this phenotype in sema3A mutant mice as “proximal bifurcation.” In the dissociated culture system, approximately half of the hippocampal neurons from wildtype mice resembled pyramidal neurons, which possess a long, thick, and tapered dendrite. In contrast, only 30% of the neurons from sema3A mutants exhibited pyramidal‐like morphology. Proximal bifurcation of CA1 pyramidal neurons was also increased in the mutant mice of p35, an activator of cyclin‐dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5). Thus, Sema3A may facilitate the initial growth of CA1 apical dendrites via the activation of p35/Cdk5, which may in turn signal hippocampal development. J. Comp. Neurol. 516:360–375, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Expression of the Gata3 transcription factor in the acoustic ganglion of the developing avian inner ear
Authors: Jones Jennifer M. , Warchol Mark E.
Published: June 2009

During the development of the inner ear, auditory and vestibular ganglion neurons are generated in a highly regulated sequential process. First, neuroblasts are specified, delaminate from the epithelium of the otocyst, and migrate to form the auditory‐vestibular ganglion (AVG). These neuroblasts then undergo proliferation and differentiate into afferent neurons of the auditory and vestibular ganglia. The zinc finger transcription factor Gata3 has been shown to play a role in cell proliferation and differentiation in various regions of the inner ear. Here we profile the spatiotemporal expression pattern of Gata3 in the developing auditory and vestibular ganglia of the chick embryo. Gata3 is expressed in a distinct population of sensorineural precursor cells within the otic epithelium, but is not expressed in migrating or proliferating neuroblasts. Following terminal mitosis, Gata3 expression is restricted to very few cells in the auditory ganglion and is not expressed in any cells of the vestibular ganglion. Gata3 expression levels then increase in auditory neurons as they mature. The increase of Gata3 in auditory ganglion neurons is accompanied by decreased expression of NeuroD. Our results suggest that Gata3 may be specifically involved in the differentiation of auditory ganglion neurons. J. Comp. Neurol. 516:507–518, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Acid sensitivity and ultrastructure of the retrotrapezoid nucleus in Phox2b‐EGFP transgenic mice
Authors: Lazarenko Roman M. , Milner Teresa A. , Depuy Seth D. , Stornetta Ruth L. , West Gavin H. , Kievits Justin A. , Bayliss Douglas A. , Guyenet Patrice G.
Published: June 2009

The retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN) contains noncholinergic noncatecholaminergic glutamatergic neurons that express the transcription factor Phox2b (chemically coded or “cc” RTN neurons). These cells regulate breathing and may be central chemoreceptors. Here we explore their ultrastructure and their acid sensitivity by using two novel BAC eGFP‐Phox2b transgenic mice (B/G, GENSAT JX99) in which, respectively, 36% and 100% of the cc RTN neurons express the transgene in complete or partial anatomical isolation from other populations of eGFP neurons. All but one of the eGFP‐labeled RTN neurons recorded in these mice were acid activated in slices. These cells contained VGLUT2 mRNA, and 50% contained preprogalanin mRNA (determined by single‐cell PCR in the B/G mouse). Two neuronal subgroups were revealed, which differed in discharge rate at pH 7.3 (type I ∼2; type II ∼4 Hz) and the degree of alkalization that silenced the cells (type I 7.4–7.6, type II 7.8–8.0). Medial to the RTN, C1 neurons recorded in a tyrosine hydroxylase‐GFP mouse were pH insensitive between pH 6.9 and pH 7.5. Ultrastructural studies demonstrated that eGFP‐labeled RTN neurons were surrounded by numerous capillaries and were often in direct contact with glial cells, pericytes, and the basement membrane of capillaries. Terminals contacting large proximal eGFP dendrites formed mainly symmetric, likely inhibitory, synapses. Terminals on more distal eGFP dendrites formed preferentially asymmetric, presumably excitatory, synapses. In sum, C1 cells are pH insensitive, whereas cc RTN neurons are uniformly acid sensitive. The RTN neurons receive inhibitory and excitatory synaptic inputs and may have unfettered biochemical interactions with glial cells and the local microvasculature. J. Comp. Neurol. 517:69–86, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A bushy cell network in the rat ventral cochlear nucleus
Authors: Gómez‐Nieto Ricardo , Rubio María E.
Published: June 2009

Geometry of the dendritic tree and synaptic organization of afferent inputs are essential factors in determining how synaptic input is integrated by neurons. This information remains elusive for one of the first brainstem neurons involved in processing of the primary auditory signal from the ear, the bushy cells (BCs) of the ventral cochlear nucleus (VCN). Here, we labeled the BC dendritic trees with retrograde tracing techniques to analyze their geometry and synaptic organization after immunofluorescence for excitatory and inhibitory synaptic markers, electron microscopy, morphometry, double tract‐tracing methods, and 3D reconstructions. Our study revealed that BC dendrites provide space for a large number of compartmentalized excitatory and inhibitory synaptic interactions. The dendritic inputs on BCs are of cochlear and noncochlear origin, and their proportion and distribution are dependent on the branching pattern and orientation of the dendritic tree in the VCN. Three‐dimensional reconstructions showed that BC dendrites branch and cluster with those of other BCs in the core of the VCN. Within the cluster, incoming synaptic inputs establish divergent multiple‐contact synapses (dyads and triads) between BCs. Furthermore, neuron–neuron connections including puncta adherentia, sarcoplasmic junctions, and gap junctions are common between BCs, which suggests that these neurons are electrically coupled. Overall, our study demonstrates the existence of a BC network in the rat VCN. This network may establish the neuroanatomical basis for acoustic information processing by individual BCs as well as for enhanced synchronization of the output signal of the VCN. J. Comp. Neurol. 516:241–263, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Investigation of regularized techniques for boundary knot method
Authors: Wang Fuzhang , Chen Wen , Jiang Xinrong
Published: June 2009

This study investigates regularization techniques for the boundary knot method (BKM). We consider three regularization methods and two approaches for the determination of the regularization parameter. Our numerical experiments show that Tikhonov regularization in conjunction with generalized cross‐validation approach outperforms the other regularization techniques in the BKM solution of Helmholtz and modified Helmholtz problems. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Numerical simulation of substation grounding system in low‐frequency domain based on the boundary element method with linear basis function
Authors: Li Zhong‐Xin , Li Guang‐Fan , Fan Jian‐Bin
Published: June 2009

In order to improve the precision of electrical grounding system simulations, we have developed a new application based on the 1D Galerkin boundary element method using linear basis functions. The calculations described here can be used to simulate and analyze complex structures located anywhere within a multi‐layer earth model. We introduce a quasi‐static complex image method implemented by the matrix pencil approach, which results in a closed‐form for Green's function. The resulting application is very efficient, requiring only a few minutes on a Pentium 4 computer to simulate realistic systems. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Unsteady flow optimization by a stabilized finite element method
Authors: Gao Zhiming , Ma Yichen
Published: June 2009

This paper presents the problem of shape optimization of two‐dimensional viscous flow governed by the time‐dependent Navier–Stokes equations. The minimization problem of the viscous dissipated energy was established in the fluid domain. The discretization of Navier–Stokes equations is accomplished using a new stabilized finite element method in space and finite difference in time. This new method does not need a stabilization parameter or calculation of high‐order derivatives. We derive the structures of the discrete Eulerian derivative of the cost functional by a discrete adjoint method with a function space parametrization technique. A gradient‐type optimization algorithm with a mesh adaptation technique and a mesh moving strategy is effectively implemented. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The use of pseudo‐inertia in asymptotic modelling of constraints in boundary value problems
Authors: Henderson L. , Ilanko S.
Published: June 2009

In recent publications, the validity of using positive and negative inertial penalty parameters and the advantage of this approach over the conventional positive penalty function approach have been established for linear eigenvalue problems. This paper shows how this method may be applied to solve a boundary value problem. A steady‐state 2‐D heat transfer problem is used to demonstrate the method. First, the governing partial differential equation is modified by adding a pseudo‐inertial term that results in an equation, which is mathematically identical to the equation governing the free vibration of a membrane. The essential boundary conditions of zero temperature along a specified line are imposed using inertial penalty parameters. The characteristic vibration modes found in this way are used to generate the complementary function to the heat transfer problem. This solution satisfies all natural boundary conditions (adiabatic) and zero temperature conditions using the inertial penalty parameter. To satisfy any additional temperature distribution imposed on the system, two sets of corrector terms are superimposed resulting in the final solution. The results are compared with constrained solutions obtained using the Lagrangian multiplier method and the ordinary penalty method. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A cross‐layer architecture for effective channel assignment with load‐balancing in multi‐radio multi‐path wireless mesh networks
Authors: Bononi Luciano , Di Felice Marco , Molinaro Antonella , Pizzi Sara
Published: June 2009

Wireless mesh networks (WMNs) are a promising technology for providing Internet connectivity to large residential areas. In a typical WMN deployment, end‐users access the Internet through a backbone of static routers, which are responsible for traffic forwarding towards the closest Internet gateway (IG). In such a scenario, multiple paths may likely exist between the end‐users and the IGs. For this reason, multi‐path routing schemes appear as a viable approach to provide higher aggregate throughput, fault‐tolerance and load‐balancing properties. However,route‐couplingproblems may occur when the paths are concurrently used and certain nodes on separate paths are within each other's interference range. To overcome this problem, we propose a cross‐layer architecture that comprises a novel joint multi‐path routing and channel allocation scheme for multi‐radio WMNs. The routing scheme discovers multiple node‐disjoint paths between a source node (i.e. the end‐user) and the gateway node. During the route setup, channel allocation is performed so that nodes on different paths, but within the same interference domain, transmit on different channels. As a result, the effect of route coupling is strongly mitigated. Moreover, we propose a load‐balancing scheme, which allows to distribute traffic among the available node‐ and channel‐disjoint paths. The simulation results show that the proposed scheme reduces the end‐to‐end delay and significantly enhances the systemgoodputover several network topologies and under different traffic workloads. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Small‐scale variability in surface moisture on a fine‐grained beach: implications for modeling aeolian transport
Authors: Edwards Brandon L. , Namikas Steven L.
Published: June 2009

Small‐scale variations in surface moisture content were measured on a fine‐grained beach using a Delta‐T Theta probe. The resulting data set was used to examine the implications of small‐scale variability for estimating aeolian transport potential. Surface moisture measurements were collected on a 40 cm × 40 cm grid at 10 cm intervals, providing a total of 25 measurements for each grid data set. A total of 44 grid data sets were obtained from a representative set of beach sub‐environments. Measured moisture contents ranged from about 0% (dry) to 25% (saturated), by weight. The moisture content range within a grid data set was found to vary from less than 1% to almost 15%. The magnitude of within‐grid variability varied consistently with the mean moisture content of the grid sets, following an approximately normal distribution. Both very wet and very dry grid data sets exhibited little internal variability in moisture content, while intermediate moisture contents were associated with higher levels of variability. Thus, at intermediate moisture contents it was apparent that some portions of the beach surface could be dry enough to allow aeolian transport (i.e. moisture content is below the critical threshold), while adjacent portions are too wet for transport to occur. To examine the implications of this finding, cumulative distribution functions were calculated to model the relative proportions of beach surface area expected to be above or below specified threshold moisture levels (4%, 7%, and 14%). It was found that the implicit inclusion of small‐scale variability in surface moisture levels typically resulted in changes of less than 1% in the beach area available for transport, suggesting that this parameter can be ignored at larger spatial scales. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Form and growth of bars in a wandering gravel‐bed river
Authors: Church Michael , Rice Stephen P.
Published: June 2009

The changing form of developing alluvial river bars has rarely been studied in the field, especially in the context of the fixed, compound, mainly alternate gravel bars that are the major morphological feature of the wandering style. Century scale patterns of three‐dimensional growth and development, and the consequent scaling relations of such bars, are examined along the gravel‐bed reach of lower Fraser River, British Columbia, Canada. A retrospective view based on maps and aerial photographs obtained through the twentieth century shows that individual bars have a life history of about 100 years, except in certain, protected positions. A newly formed gravel bar quickly assumes its ultimate thickness and relatively quickly approaches its equilibrium length. Growth continues mainly by lateral accretion of unit bars, consistent with the lateral style of instability of the river. Bar growth is therefore allometric. Mature bars approach equilibrium dimensions and volume that scale with the overall size of the channel. Accordingly, the bars conform with several published criteria for the ultimate dimensions of alternate barforms. Sand bars, observed farther downstream, have notably different morphology. Fraser River presents a typical wandering channel planform, exhibiting elements of both meandered and low‐order braided channels. Hydraulic criteria to which the Fraser bars conform illustrate why this planform develops and persists. The modest rate of bed material transfer along the channel – typical of the wandering type – determines a century‐length time scale for bar development. This time scale is consistent with estimates that have been made for change of the macroform elements that determine the overall geometry of alluvial channels. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Natural experiments in landscape evolution
Authors: Tucker Gregory E.
Published: June 2009

A natural experiment in landscape evolution is a case study of landform development in which only one element varies significantly, and for which the driving forces, initial conditions, and/or boundary conditions are well constrained. Natural experiments provide a means of testing landscape evolution theory on the large space and time scales to which that theory applies. Natural experiments can involve either steady or transient conditions. Cases with steady conditions allow one to test predictions about the relationships among topography, erosion rates, and various attributes related to climate and material properties. Transient cases are valuable for distinguishing between models whose predictions might be similar, and therefore indistinguishable, under steady conditions. Essential ingredients of a natural experiment include minimal variation in all but one factor, good constraints on timing and/or rates, well‐characterized processes, and high quality topographic data. Other useful ingredients include information about intermediate topographic states (such as a former valley profile revealed by strath terraces), and knowledge of the time history of erosion rates. In order to deepen our understanding of the physics and chemistry of long‐term landscape evolution, there is a pressing need to identify natural experiments and develop the necessary databases to take advantage of them. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A brighter future with lower transactions costs?
Authors: Nordén Lars
Published: June 2009

Recently, the OMX Nordic Exchange reduced the exchange fee for trading the OMXS 30 index futures with more than 22%. The reduction in exchange fees provides this study with a unique opportunity to investigate the effects of a change in fixed transaction costs on futures market liquidity, trading activity, volatility, futures pricing efficiency, and the futures exchange's revenues. The results show a ceteris paribus increase in futures trading volume with 19%, a 27% decrease in futures bid–ask spread, and a 27% increase in volatility, as a result of the futures exchange fee reduction, whereas the pricing efficiency of the futures contract and the exchange's revenues are unaffected by the change in transaction costs. The exchange fee reduction has improved futures market liquidity at the cost of higher volatility. Moreover, the attractiveness and competitiveness of the futures exchange has increased relative alternative trading venues, without a loss of revenues in the process. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 29:775–796, 2009
Facts and fiction of the relationship between preexisting tuberculosis and lung cancer risk: A systematic review
Authors: Liang Hui‐Ying , Li Xue‐Lian , Yu Xiao‐Song , Guan Peng , Yin Zhi‐Hua , He Qin‐Cheng , Zhou Bao‐Sen
Published: June 2009

There has been conflicting evidence concerning the possible association between tuberculosis (TB) and subsequent risk of lung cancer. To investigate whether currently published epidemiological studies can clarify this association, we performed a systematic review of 37 case‐control and 4 cohort studies (published between January 1966 and January 2009) and a meta‐analysis of risk estimates, with particular attention to the role of smoking, passive smoking and the timing of diagnosis of TB on this relationship. Data for the review show a significantly increased lung cancer risk associated with preexisting TB. Importantly, the association was not due to confounding by the effects of tobacco use (RR = 1.8, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.4–2.2, among never smoking individuals), lifetime environmental tobacco smoke exposure (RR = 2.9, 95%CI = 1.6–5.3, after controlling) or the timing of diagnosis of TB (the increased lung cancer risk remained 2‐fold elevated for more than 20 years after TB diagnosis). Interestingly, the association was significant with adenocarcinoma (RR = 1.6, 95%CI = 1.2–2.1), but no significant associations with squamous and small cell type of lung cancer were observed. Although no causal mechanism has been demonstrated for such an association, present study supports a direct relation between TB and lung cancer, especially adenocarcinomas. © 2009 UICC
Elevated levels of MIC‐1/GDF15 in the cerebrospinal fluid of patients are associated with glioblastoma and worse outcome
Authors: Shnaper Sophie , Desbaillets Isabelle , Brown David A. , Murat Anastasia , Migliavacca Eugenia , Schluep Myriam , Ostermann Sandrine , Hamou Marie‐France , Stupp Roger , Breit Samuel N. , de Tribolet Nicolas , Hegi Monika E.
Published: June 2009

For patients with brain tumors identification of diagnostic and prognostic markers in easy accessible biological material, such as plasma or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), would greatly facilitate patient management. MIC‐1/GDF15 (growth differentiation factor 15) is a secreted protein of the TGF‐beta superfamily and emerged as a candidate marker exhibiting increasing mRNA expression during malignant progression of glioma. Determination of MIC‐1/GDF15 protein levels by ELISA in the CSF of a cohort of 94 patients with intracranial tumors including gliomas, meningioma and metastasis revealed significantly increased concentrations in glioblastoma patients (median, 229 pg/ml) when compared with control cohort of patients treated for non‐neoplastic diseases (median below limit of detection of 156 pg/ml, p < 0.0001, Mann–Whitney test). However, plasma MIC‐1/GDF15 levels were not elevated in the matching plasma samples from these patients. Most interestingly, patients with glioblastoma and increased CSF MIC‐1/GDF15 had a shorter survival (p = 0.007, log‐rank test). In conclusion, MIC‐1/GDF15 protein measured in the CSF may have diagnostic and prognostic value in patients with intracranial tumors. © 2009 UICC
Regulation of rat haptoglobin gene expression is coordinated by the nuclear matrix
Authors: Vidaković Melita , Dinić Svetlana , Grdović Nevena , Mihailović Mirjana , Uskoković Aleksandra , Quesada Piera , Poznanović Goran
Published: June 2009

Using computer stress‐induced duplex destabilization (SIDD) analysis and binding experiments, we identified a S/MAR element (−599/−200 bp) (Hp‐S/MAR) adjacent to the cis‐element (−165/−56 bp) in the rat haptoglobin gene. We examined its functional interactions with the lamins and lamin‐associated proteins in the basal state and during acute‐phase (AP) response‐induced increased transcription. Colocalization, electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA), and re‐electrophoresis of nucleoprotein complexes, South‐Western and Western blot analysis and coimunoprecipitation experiments revealed that the lamins, PARP‐1, C/EBPβ, and Hp‐S/MAR assembled higher order complexes through direct lamin‐Hp‐S/MAR and probably PARP‐1–Hp‐S/MAR interactions although C/EBPβ did not bind to the Hp‐S/MAR but established direct interaction with PARP‐1. The transition from constitutive to increased haptoglobin gene transcription during the AP response was associated with quantitative and qualitative changes in Hp‐S/MAR–protein interactions, respectively, observed as increased association of the lamin(s) with the Hp‐S/MAR and as the appearance of a 90 kDa Hp‐S/MAR‐binding protein. Also, during the AP response the contact between C/EBPβ and PARP‐1 established in the basal state was lost. DNA chromatography with the haptoglobin cis‐element and Western blot analysis suggests that PARP‐1 was a coactivator during constitutive and elevated transcription. The results show that the lamin components of the nuclear matrix form a network of functional, dynamic protein–protein and protein–Hp‐S/MAR associations with multiple partners, and underline the involvement of PARP‐1 in the regulation of haptoglobin gene transcription. We concluded that the interplay of these interactions fine tunes haptoglobin gene expression to meet the changing requirements of liver cells. J. Cell. Biochem. 107: 1205–1221, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Interannual variability and controls of the Sydney wave climate
Authors: Harley Mitchell D. , Turner Ian L. , Short Andrew D. , Ranasinghe Roshanka
Published: June 2009

A multi‐decadal beach survey dataset at a coastal embayment in Sydney, Australia, identifies erosion/accretion cycles coinciding with phase shifts in the El Niño/Southern Oscillation (ENSO). In an attempt to explain the processes governing these cycles, this study explores the interannual variability and controls of the Sydney wave climate using ECMWF ERA‐40 and corrected ERA‐40 (C‐ERA‐40) reanalysis data. Comparisons with wave measurements collected by the Sydney waverider buoy show that these datasets represent the Sydney wave climate reasonably well, although westerly waves are significantly over‐predicted. Removing these values strengthens correlations between predicted and measured wave heights. A summary of the Sydney wave climate from 1957 to 2002 is presented, which highlights the high degree of variability in storm events. Controls of interannual variability are investigated by comparing values in Sydney with regional mean sea level pressure anomalies, the Southern Oscillation Index (SOI) and the Southern Annular Mode (SAM). Austral summer wave heights over this 45‐year period increase/decrease with positive/negative phases of the SOI and the SAM. An inverse relationship is found between wave directions and the SOI for the austral autumn and spring; and between wave directions and the SAM for the austral winter. Variability of storm events in Sydney is significantly correlated with the SOI, but not the SAM. In particular, La Niña phases are generally associated with longer duration, higher‐energy events from a more easterly direction when compared to those during El Niño phases. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Conformational stability from Raman spectra, r0 structural parameters, and vibrational assignment of methylcyclohexane
Authors: Durig James R. , Ward Rachel M. , Guirgis Gamil A. , Gounev Todor K.
Published: June 2009

The Raman spectra (3500–50 cm−1) of the liquid and solid methylcyclohexane and the infrared spectra of the gas and solid methylcyclohexane have been recorded. The Raman band at 754 cm−1 in the liquid has been confidently assigned to the less stable axial conformer and its intensity was recorded as a function of temperature from 25 to −95 °C. By the utilization of 15 different temperatures, the enthalpy difference between the more stable chair‐equatorial conformer and the chair‐axial form was determined to be 712 ± 71 cm−1 (8.50 ± 0.84 kJ/mol). The ab initio predicted value of 710 cm−1 (8.50 kJ/mol) from the MP2(full)/6‐311G(2d,2p) calculations with and without diffuse functions is in excellent agreement. The harmonic force fields, infrared intensities, Raman activities, depolarization ratios, and vibrational wavenumbers have been obtained for both conformers from MP2(full)/6‐31G(d) ab initio calculations. With two scaling factors of 0.88 for the C‐H stretches and 0.9 for the remaining ones, the fundamental wavenumbers have been predicted and along with the depolarization values and infrared band contours (B‐type for A″ modes) a complete vibrational assignment has been made for the chair‐equatorial conformer. Predicted r0 structural parameters have been provided from adjusted parameters from ab initio MP2(full)/6‐311+G(d,p) calculations. The results are discussed and compared with the corresponding properties of some similar molecules. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A study on red lead degradation in a medieval manuscriptLorvão Apocalypse(1189)
Authors: Miguel Catarina , Claro Ana , Gonçalves António Pereira , Muralha Vânia S. F. , Melo Maria João
Published: June 2009

The mechanisms of red lead degradation were studied in a medieval Portuguese codex,Lorvão Apocalypse(1189), by Raman microscopy (µ‐Raman) and micro‐X‐ray diffraction (µ‐XRD). The range of pigments found for the illuminations is mainly limited to vermilion, orpiment and red lead. Micro‐Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (µ‐FTIR) determined that the pigments were applied in a proteinaceous binding medium. In the red and orange colours, arsenic (As) was determined, by micro‐energy dispersive X‐ray fluorescence (µ‐EDXRF), to be ranging 1–4% (wt %). For those colours, lead white and calcium carbonate were found as fillers whereas orpiment was applied as a pure pigment. Raman microscopy identified, unequivocally, the degradation product of red lead as galena [lead (II) sulphide, PbS].

To determine the main factors affecting red lead degradation, a set of accelerating ageing experiments was designed to assess the influence of extenders and of the two other pigments, vermilion and orpiment. The experiments were followed by µ‐Raman, µ‐EDXRF and XRD. Raman microscopy results for the simulation of degradation of red lead, in the presence of orpiment, are in agreement to what was found in theLorvão Apocalypse, galena being the main degradation product; also in common is a Raman band atca.810 cm−1, which was attributed to a lead arsenate compound. It was concluded that inLorvão Apocalypse, the degradation of red lead was a result of its reaction with orpiment. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Laryngeal complications after lipoinjection for vocal fold augmentation
Authors: Sanderson J. Drew , Simpson C. Blake
Published: June 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Vocal fold augmentation with autologous fat has been widely used for the last 15 years with varying success. Autologous fat is biocompatible, readily available, and easily harvested, making it a commonly used material for vocal fold augmentation. Although felt to be a relatively safe procedure, few studies have looked at the complication rate of lipoinjection for vocal fold augmentation.

Study Design:

Retrospective review.

Methods:

Ninety‐eight vocal fold injections were performed at one institution from 1997 to 2008. The charts were reviewed retrospectively, and age, diagnosis, side of procedure, concurrent procedures, length of follow‐up, and complications during or subsequent to the injection were recorded in a database. Patients were excluded if data was inadequate to make a determination regarding complication during or after lipoinjection.

Results:

Eighty‐eight patients met the criteria for review with an average age of 57.4 years. The most common indications for injection were vocal fold paresis, vocal fold scarring, and presbylaryngeus. Mean follow‐up was 20.2 months with a range of 0 months to 126 months. Overall, four laryngeal complications occurred (4.5%), including three over‐injections (3.4%) leading to poor voice quality and one granuloma formation (1.1%). The over‐injections were managed using cordotomy with fat removal, resulting in vocal improvement in all cases.

Conclusions:

Although lipoinjection vocal fold augmentation is a safe procedure, over‐injection of autologous fat is a risk. Lipoinjection for vocal fold augmentation can lead to over‐injection with dysphonia in a small number of patients. The complications can be managed with lateral cordotomy and fat removal.