bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physical Activity Behavior of People With Multiple Sclerosis: Understanding How They Can Become More Physically Active
Authors: Beckerman Heleen , de Groot Vincent , Scholten Maarten A. , Kempen Jiska C.E. , Lankhorst Gustaaf J.
Published: May 2010

Background

People with multiple sclerosis (MS) are less physically active than those without the disease. Understanding the modifiable factors that are related to physical inactivity is important for developing effective physical activity programs.

Objective

The objectives of this study were to determine levels of physical activity and to determine factors related to the physical activity behavior of adults with MS by use of the Physical Activity for People With a Disability (PAD) model. The PAD model combines the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health framework of disability and theoretical models of physical activity behavior.

Design

This investigation was a cross-sectional study.

Methods

The study participants were 106 people who had MS and who, since their definite diagnosis, had been participating in a prospective cohort study. Physical activity was assessed with the Short Questionnaire to Assess Health-Enhancing Physical Activity. The independent roles of disease characteristics and demographic, cognitive-behavioral, and environmental factors were determined using questionnaires for which reliability and validity have been established.

Results

The median total level of physical activity of participants with MS (mean age=42.8 years, median Expanded Disability Status Scale score=3, disease duration=6 years) was 10.68 metabolic equivalents × h/d (interquartile range=3.69–16.57). On average, participants spent 30 h/wk on activities with metabolic equivalents of 2 or more (interquartile range=10.7–45.0 h/wk). The regression models predicting physical activity behavior on the basis of demographic (29.4%) and disease-related (28.3%) variables explained more variance than the models based on cognitive-behavioral (12.0%) and environmental (9.1%) variables. Combining significant variables yielded a final regression model that explained 37.2% of the variance in physical activity. Significant determinants were disease severity, a disability pension, and having children to care for.

Limitations

Changes in physical activity behavior were not measured.

Conclusions

Participants with MS were less active if their disease was more severe, if they received a disability pension, or if they had children to care for. The PAD model was helpful in understanding the physical activity behavior of participants with MS.
Marine bubble detection using optical-flow techniques
Authors: Zielinski O. , Saworski B. , Schulz J.
Published: May 2010

Bubble detection and quantification is of high relevance for the observation of gas and fluid seeps within the marine environment. The presented work suggests and successfully investigates the application of an image processing strategy based on the optical flow concept followed by a customised thresholding and a new segmentation approach. Both are applicable for laboratory conditions and in situ video sequences, as shown for a deep-sea methane vent.
Botulinum toxin for temporary corneal protection after surgery for vestibular schwannoma
Authors: Prell Julian , Rampp Stefan , Rachinger Jens , Scheller Christian , Alfieri Alex , Marquardt Liane , Strauss Christian , Bau Viktoria
Published: May 2010

Object

High-grade postoperative facial nerve paresis after surgery for vestibular schwannoma with insufficient eye closure involves a risk for severe ocular complications. When conservative measurements are not sufficient, conventional invasive treatments include tarsorrhaphy and eyelid loading. In this study, injection of botulinum toxin into the levator palpebrae muscle was investigated as an alternative for temporary iatrogenic eye closure.

Methods

Injection of botulinum toxin was indicated by an interdisciplinary decision (neurosurgery and ophthalmology) in patients with a postoperative facial nerve paresis corresponding to a House-Brackmann Grade of IV or greater and documented abnormalities concerning corneal status such as keratopathia or conjunctival redness. Twenty-five IUs of botulinum toxin were injected transcutaneously and transconjunctivally.

Results

Six of 11 patients with high-grade paresis showed abnormal corneal findings in the early postoperative period. In 4 of these patients, botulinum toxin was injected; 1 patient declined the treatment, and in 1 patient it was not performed because of contralateral blindness. Temporary eye closure was achieved for 2 to 6 months in all cases. In all cases, facial nerve function had recovered sufficiently in terms of eye closure when the effect of botulinum toxin subsided.

Conclusion

The application of botulinum toxin for temporary iatrogenic eye closure is an excellent low-risk and temporary alternative to other invasive measures for the treatment of postoperative high-grade facial nerve paresis when the facial nerve is anatomically intact.
Neuritis ossificans of a cranial nerve
Authors: Kemper Craig M. , Rojas Julio C. , Bauserman Steven
Published: May 2010

The authors report the case of intracranial neuritis ossificans presenting as chronic accessory neuropathy. Neuritis ossificans is a rare reactive nerve disease that has been reported to affect systemic peripheral nerves. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first documented case of neuritis ossificans observed in a cranial nerve. The lesion was revealed on imaging studies and appeared, intraoperatively, as a nonsessile intradural lesion with significant calcification of rootlets of the lower cranial nerves. Microscopically, the lesion featured zonal heterotopic calcification typical of neuritis ossificans. Although it is a rare entity, neuritis ossificans can be considered in the differential diagnosis of lower cranial nerve neuropathy.
Cystic granular cell tumor mimicking Rathke cleft cyst
Authors: Mumert Michael L. , Walsh Michael T. , Chin Steven S. , Couldwell William T.
Published: May 2010

Symptomatic granular cell tumors of the neurohypophysis are a rarely reported entity. To the authors' knowledge, they report the first fully described case of a symptomatic granular cell tumor with a large cystic component. A 31-year-old woman presented with headaches and visual complaints with imaging findings confirming a cystic sellar and suprasellar mass. The lesion was resected, and histological examination confirmed the diagnosis. The literature has shown that granular cell tumors are rarely reported as being symptomatic but may actually be a fairly common finding in autopsy studies. The authors review the literature with a specific focus on radiographic findings in patients with symptomatic granular cell tumors.
Blood-Based Biomarkers for the Optimization of Anti-Angiogenic Therapies
Authors: Rabascio Cristina , Bertolini Francesco
Published: May 2010

The dependence of tumor growth and metastasis on blood vessels makes tumor angiogenesis a rational target for therapy. Strategies have been pursued to inhibit neovascularization and to destroy existing tumor vessels, or both. These include direct targeting of endothelial cells, and indirect targeting by inhibiting the release of proangiogenic growth factors by cancer or stromal cells. Many patients benefit from antiangiogenic therapies; thus, development of noninvasive biomarkers of disease response and relapse is a crucial objective to aid in their management. A number of non-invasive tools are described with their potential benefits and limitations. We review currently available candidate biomarkers of anti-angiogenic agent effect. Including these markers into clinical trials may provide insight into appropriate dosing for desired biological effects, appropriate timing of additional therapy, and prediction of individual response. This has important consequences for the clinical use of angiogenesis inhibitors and for drug discovery, not only for optimizing the treatment of cancer, but possibly also for developing therapeutic approaches for various other diseases.
Genome-Wide Loss of Diversity in the Critically Endangered Hawaiian Monk Seal
Authors: Schultz Jennifer K. , Marshall Amy J. , Pfunder Monika
Published: May 2010

Threatened species often exhibit low genetic diversity as a result of selective sweeps, historical bottlenecks, or persistent small population size. Whereas selective sweeps create localized reduction of variation at a chromosome, population bottlenecks result in the loss of rare alleles throughout the genome. Heterozygosity is lost more slowly and is severely impacted only when populations are small for an extended period of time. We test the hypotheses of selective sweep, historical bottleneck and persistently small population size to explain extremely low genetic diversity in the critically endangered Hawaiian monk seal (Monachus schauinslandi). Of 163 microsatellite loci isolated from the species’ genome, only 17 are polymorphic. Mapping 98 monomorphic and 12 polymorphic loci to 35 chromosomes throughout the dog genome, we reject the selective sweep hypothesis. Genotyping 2,423 Hawaiian monk seals at the 17 polymorphic loci plus a locus previously isolated from another pinniped species, we find evidence for a recent bottleneck (P = 0.04). This is consistent with historical records describing intense hunting in the 19th century; however, the bottleneck was not of sufficient severity and duration to explain the genome-wide depletion of genetic diversity (HO = 0.05; A = 1.1). Long-term population size restriction is a more likely explanation. Though at least two of the polymorphic loci appear to be candidates for selection, the low genetic diversity of the species may further threaten chances for survival of this critically endangered species in a changing world.
Living with Companion Animals, Physical Activity and Mortality in a U.S. National Cohort
Authors: Gillum Richard F. , Obisesan Thomas O.
Published: May 2010

Living with a canine companion is postulated to increase physical activity. We test the hypotheses that adults living with a canine companion have a higher level of physical activity and reduced mortality risk compared to those not living with a companion animal. A U.S. national health survey with longitudinal mortality follow-up studied 11,394 American men and women aged 40 years and over examined in 1988–1994 followed an average 8.5 years. Measurements at baseline included self-reported companion animals in the household, socio-demographics, health status, physical and biochemical measurements. Outcome measures were leisure-time physical activity (LTPA), and death from all causes. Death during follow-up occurred in 3,187 persons. In bivariate cross-sectional analyses living with a dog was associated with more frequent LTPA and higher survival. In proportional hazards regression analysis, no significant interaction of age, gender or ethnicity with animals was found. After adjusting for confounding by baseline socio-demographics and health status at ages 40+, the hazards ratio (95% confidence limits) for living with a canine companion compared to no animals was 1.21(1.04–1.41, p < 0.001). After also controlling for health behaviors, blood pressure and body mass, C-reactive protein and HDL-cholesterol, the HR was 1.19 (0.97–1.47, NS). In a nationwide cohort of American adults, analyses demonstrated no lower risk of death independent of confounders among those living with canine or feline companions, despite positive association of canine companions with LTPA.
A Review of Photocatalysts Prepared by Sol-Gel Method for VOCs Removal
Authors: Tseng Ting Ke , Lin Yi Shing , Chen Yi Ju , Chu Hsin
Published: May 2010

The sol-gel process is a wet-chemical technique (chemical solution deposition), which has been widely used in the fields of materials science, ceramic engineering, and especially in the preparation of photocatalysts. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are prevalent components of indoor air pollution. Among the approaches to remove VOCs from indoor air, photocatalytic oxidation (PCO) is regarded as a promising method. This paper is a review of the status of research on the sol-gel method for photocatalyst preparation and for the PCO purification of VOCs. The review and discussion will focus on the preparation and coating of various photocatalysts, operational parameters, and will provide an overview of general PCO models described in the literature.
A Low Frequency Electromagnetic Sensor for Indirect Measurement of Glucose Concentration: In Vitro Experiments in Different Conductive Solutions
Authors: Tura Andrea , Sbrignadello Stefano , Cianciavicchia Domenico , Pacini Giovanni , Ravazzani Paolo
Published: May 2010

In recent years there has been considerable interest in the study of glucose-induced dielectric property variations of human tissues as a possible approach for non-invasive glycaemia monitoring. We have developed an electromagnetic sensor, and we tested in vitro its ability to estimate variations in glucose concentration of different solutions with similarities to blood (sodium chloride and Ringer-lactate solutions), differing though in the lack of any cellular components. The sensor was able to detect the effect of glucose variations over a wide range of concentrations (~78–5,000 mg/dL), with a sensitivity of ~0.22 mV/(mg/dL). Our proposed system may thus be useful in a new approach for non-invasive and non-contact glucose monitoring.
Integration of a Multi-Camera Vision System and Strapdown Inertial Navigation System (SDINS) with a Modified Kalman Filter
Authors: Parnian Neda , Golnaraghi Farid
Published: May 2010

This paper describes the development of a modified Kalman filter to integrate a multi-camera vision system and strapdown inertial navigation system (SDINS) for tracking a hand-held moving device for slow or nearly static applications over extended periods of time. In this algorithm, the magnitude of the changes in position and velocity are estimated and then added to the previous estimation of the position and velocity, respectively. The experimental results of the hybrid vision/SDINS design show that the position error of the tool tip in all directions is about one millimeter RMS. The proposed Kalman filter removes the effect of the gravitational force in the state-space model. As a result, the resulting error is eliminated and the resulting position is smoother and ripple-free.
A Methodology for Assessing the Sustainability of Hydrogen Production from Solid Fuels
Authors: Gnanapragasam Nirmal V. , Reddy Bale V. , Rosen Marc A.
Published: May 2010

A methodology for assessing the sustainability of hydrogen production using solid fuels is introduced, in which three sustainability dimensions (ecological, sociological and technological) are considered along with ten indicators for each dimension. Values for each indicator are assigned on a 10-point scale based on a high of 1 and a low of 0, depending on the characteristic of the criteria associated with each element or process, utilizing data reported in the literature. An illustrative example is presented to compare two solid fuels for hydrogen production: coal and biomass. The results suggest that qualitative sustainability indicators can be reasonably defined based on evaluations of system feasibility, and that adequate flexibility and comprehensiveness is provided through the use of ten indicators for each of the dimensions for every process or element involved in hydrogen production using solid fuels. Also, the assessment index values suggest that biomasses have better sustainability than coals, and that it may be advantageous to use coals in combination with biomass to increase their ecological and social sustainability. The sustainability assessment methodology can be made increasingly quantitative, and is likely extendable to other energy systems, but additional research and development is needed to lead to a more fully developed approach.
Serine Protease Autotransporters of Enterobacteriaceae (SPATEs): Biogenesis and Function
Authors: Dautin Nathalie
Published: May 2010

Serine Protease Autotransporters of Enterobacteriaceae (SPATEs) constitute a large family of proteases secreted by Escherichia coli and Shigella. SPATEs exhibit two distinct proteolytic activities. First, a C-terminal catalytic site triggers an intra-molecular cleavage that releases the N-terminal portion of these proteins in the extracellular medium. Second, the secreted N-terminal domains of SPATEs are themselves proteases; each contains a canonical serine-protease catalytic site. Some of these secreted proteases are toxins, eliciting various effects on mammalian cells. Here, we discuss the biogenesis of SPATEs and their function as toxins.
Multi-Element Analysis and Geochemical Spatial Trends of Groundwater in Rural Northern New York
Authors: O’Connor Michael , Zabik Matt , Cady Carol , Cousens Brian , Chiarenzelli Jeffrey
Published: May 2010

Samples from private wells (n = 169) throughout St. Lawrence County, NY were analyzed by ICP-MS multi-element techniques. St. Lawrence County spans three diverse bedrock terranes including Precambrian crystalline rocks of the Adirondack Lowlands (mostly paragneisses) and Highlands (mostly orthogneisses), as well as Paleozoic sedimentary rocks of the St. Lawrence Valley. An ArcGIS database was constructed and used to generate contour plots for elements across the county. Strontium isotopes and unique geochemical signatures were used to distinguish water from various geologic units. The results were consistent with a large (7,309 km2), sparsely populated (~110,000), rural region with diverse bedrock and glacial cover.
Article Commentary: Treating an HIV-Infected Paediatric Patient: An Easy Task?
Authors: Rakhmanina Natella Y , van den Anker John N
Published: May 2010

HIV-infected children represent an incredibly diverse group of patients, ranging from neonates to young adults. With the change in age and maturity, paediatric highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) evolves from the meticulous twice-daily dosing of ml of liquid preparations to a choice of once-daily dosing of a single fixed-dose coformulated tablet. The use of simplified paediatric regimens could enhance the ability to achieve successful implementation of HAART in HIV- infected children. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamic studies of antiretroviral drugs and their combinations need to be conducted in infants, children and adolescents to develop appropriate dosing in each of these specific groups.
Faculty Incivility: Effects on Program Satisfaction of BSN Students
Authors: Marchiondo Kathleen , Marchiondo Lisa A. , Lasiter Sue
Published: May 2010

This study examined the effects of faculty incivility on nursing students’ satisfaction with their nursing programs, a topic previously unreported. In addition, incidences of incivility, students’ responses to incivility, and academic location of incivility were explored. A high incidence of perceived faculty incivility was reported by participants, and perceived incivility correlated strongly with nursing student program dissatisfaction. Possible causes of incivility in academia and suggestions for addressing this problem are discussed.
Faculty Perceptions of Student Documentation Skills During the Transition from Paper-Based to Electronic Health Records Systems
Authors: Mahon Pamela Young , Nickitas Donna M. , Nokes Kathleen M.
Published: May 2010

Nursing faculty perceptions of teaching undergraduate nursing students documentation skills using either paper-based or electronic health record systems were explored in this study. Twenty-five nursing faculty in a large urban public school of nursing were interviewed using a 13-item survey questionnaire. Responses were analyzed using the constant comparative method, and four major themes arose: teaching strategies; learning from experts; road from novice to expert; and legal, ethical, and institutional issues. Results demonstrate how faculty overcome myriad obstacles encountered while teaching clinical documentation processes. Self-efficacy theory, with its emphasis on knowledge, skills, and social context, describes how faculty are modeling behaviors necessary to succeed during this transition from paper to electronic documentation. The school of nursing is integrating the findings from this research to further informatics integration across the curricula, and ongoing research is planned to investigate issues of self-efficacy and student and clinical staff perceptions of teaching-learning clinical documentation.
Academic Predictors of Success in a Nursing Program
Authors: Wolkowitz Amanda A. , Kelley Jeffrey A.
Published: May 2010

The academic content areas that best predict success early in a nursing program affect admission and placement decisions in nursing programs nationwide. The purpose of this research was to apply a multiple regression model to student test scores to determine the relative strength of science, mathematics, reading, and English content areas in predicting early nursing school success. Using a standardized nursing entrance examination, the subtest scores of these four academic areas for 4,105 registered nurse students were used as the predictors in the regression model. Performance on a standardized Fundamentals of Nursing assessment was the criterion variable. Results confirmed those found in the majority of the literature indicating that science is both a statistically significant predictor and the strongest of the four content areas in the prediction of early nursing program success.
A Combined, Multimodal Intervention for Individuals with Dementia: Effects on Family Caregiver Outcomes
Authors: Burgener Sandy C. , Marsh-Yant Sara , Nega Katie Kosanda
Published: May 2010

Few studies have tested the effects of nonpharmacological interventions designed for people in early-stage dementia on the family caregiver. This study tested a multimodal intervention (Taiji exercise and support group) for people with dementia, with some treatment group caregivers choosing to co-participate. Control group caregivers participated in educational programs. Outcome measures included role stress (Relatives Stress Scale [RSS]) and quality of the relationship with the person with dementia. Trends toward positive effects for participating caregivers were found for overall role stress and the Personal Distress subscale and quality of the relationship with the person with dementia. In comparing outcomes between the total treatment group and the control group, treatment group caregivers rated one RSS subscale, Negative Feelings toward the Care Recipient, significantly lower (more positive) than control group caregivers. A within-group difference was found for the quality of the relationship for control group caregivers (increased negativity), with no increase in treatment group caregivers. Findings support the potential benefits of the intervention for both participating and nonparticipating caregivers.
Measuring Risk for Dehydration in Nursing Home Residents
Authors: Mentes Janet C. , Wang Jeng
Published: May 2010

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the ability of the Dehydration Risk Appraisal Checklist (DRAC) to measure dehydration risk in nursing home (NH) residents. The DRAC includes items concerning health conditions, medications, fluid intake behaviors, and laboratory abnormalities that have been identified in the literature as risk factors for dehydration. Principal component factor analysis, known group comparisons, and multiple logistic regression were used to evaluate the criterion-related validity and reliability of the DRAC. After reducing the number of items on the DRAC on the basis of a correlation matrix, a single-factor solution with moderate internal consistency was supported. Further validity analysis demonstrated that NH residents with higher urine-specific gravity scored higher than those who had lower specific gravity. The psychometric properties of the DRAC indicate that it has potential in determining dehydration risk in NH residents. Future refinement of the instrument is also discussed.
Global climate change amplifies the entry of tropical species into the eastern Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Raitsos Dionysios E. , Beaugrand Gregory , Georgopoulos Dimitrios , Zenetos Argyro , Pancucci-Papadopoulou Antonietta M. , Theocharis Alexander , Papathanassiou Evangelos
Published: May 2010

Using long‐term data of 149 warm alien species since 1924, we show that the introduction of warm and tropical alien species has been exacerbated by the observed warming of the eastern Mediterranean Sea. The phenomenon has accelerated after an abrupt shift in both regional and global temperatures that we detect around 1998, leading to a 150% increase in the annual mean rate of species entry after this date. Abrupt rising temperature since the end of the 1990s has modified the potential thermal habitat available for warm‐water species, facilitating their settlement at an unexpectedly rapid rate. The speed of alien species spreading and response to global warming is apparently much faster than temperature increase itself, presenting an important warning for the future of Mediterranean Sea biodiversity. In addition to the sea warming, other factors that enable and enhance biological invasions, such as salinity increase and oceanographic forcing, are also discussed.
Survival probability of larval sprat in response to decadal changes in diel vertical migration behavior and prey abundance in the Baltic Sea
Authors: Hinrichsen Hans-Harald , Peck Myron A. , Schmidt Jörn , Huwer Bastian , Voss Rudi
Published: May 2010

We employed a coupled three‐dimensional biophysical model to explore long‐term inter‐ and intra‐annual variability in the survival of sprat larvae in the Bornholm Basin, a major sprat spawning area in the Baltic Sea. Model scenarios incorporated observed decadal changes in larval diel vertical distribution and climate‐driven abiotic and biotic environmental factors including variability in the abundance of different, key prey species (calanoid copepods) as well as seasonal changes, long‐term trends, and spatial differences in water temperature. Climate forcing affected Baltic sprat larval survival both directly (via changes in temperature) and indirectly (via changes in prey populations). By incorporating observed changes in larval diel vertical migration, decadal changes in modeled and observed survival of Baltic sprat agreed well. Higher larval survival (spawning stock biomass) was predicted in the 1990s compared to the 1980s. After changing their foraging strategy by shifting from mid‐depth, low prey environment to near‐surface waters, first‐feeding larvae encountered much higher rates of prey encounter and almost optimal feeding conditions and had a much higher growth potential. Consequently, larvae were predicted to experience optimal conditions to ensure higher survival throughout the later larval and early juvenile stages. However, this behavioral shift also increased the susceptibility of larvae to unfavorable winddriven surface currents, contributing to the marked increase in interannual variability in recruitment observed during the past decade.
Dynamics of nonphotochemical superoxide production in the Great Barrier Reef lagoon
Authors: Rose Andrew L. , Godrant Aurélie , Godrant Aurélie , Furnas Miles , Waite T. David
Published: May 2010

Superoxide (O2–) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) concentrations ranging from 87 to 1120 pmol L−1 and 5 to 107 nmol L−1, respectively, were measured in samples of surface water from the Great Barrier Reef (GBR) lagoon in the absence of photochemistry. Nonphotochemical, particle‐associated net production rates of O2‐ ranging from 1 to 16 pmol L‐1 s‐1 were also determined and calculated to be similar in magnitude to the likely abiotic photochemical O2‐ production rates in GBR surface waters. Manipulative experiments using 0.22‐µm filtration and addition of biological inhibitors demonstrated that the majority of this particle‐associated production was biological and likely driven by photosynthetic organisms. Pseudo‐first‐order O2‐ decay rate constants were very low at O2‐ concentrations < 1 nmol L‐1 (values in filtered samples ranged from 0.7 to 4.3 x 10−2 s−1) but increased with increasing O2‐ concentration toward a value of ~ 0.2 s−1 at O2‐ concentrations > 10 nmol L‐1. This was thought to occur because reduced forms of metals such as iron and copper, or redox‐active organic moieties, preferentially react with O2 rather than O2‐ at low O2‐ concentrations, thereby inhibiting catalyzed O2‐ disproportionation. This notion was supported by the observation that addition of superoxide dismutase dramatically increased rates of H2O2 production in samples. We suggest that, under these conditions, O2‐ can maintain a biologically useful reducing microenvironment around cells without resulting in significant accumulation of potentially harmful H2O2.
Optical properties of canopies of the tropical seagrass Thalassia testudinum estimated by a three‐dimensional radiative transfer model
Authors: Hedley J. , Enríquez S.
Published: May 2010

Three‐dimensional models of seagrass canopies were constructed by treating leaves as flexible strips that fall under their own weight into naturalistic canopy structures. Canopy structures incorporated shoot density, canopy height, and physical and along‐length optical characteristics of leaves from an empirical data set of six seagrass canopies from a reef lagoon in Puerto Morelos, Mexico. Multiple runs of a radiosity method radiative transfer model elucidated the dependence of various canopy optical properties on incident radiance zenith angle, such as within‐canopy diffuse attenuation, the absorption of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) by different canopy‐complex components, along‐leaf variation in PAR absorption, and canopy bidirectional reflectance distribution functions (BRDFs). Intersite variation in mean PAR absorption by green leaf sections was primarily associated with leaf area index (LAI). Variation in PAR absorption with incident radiance angle was generally small for incident angles within Snella's window (< 49°). Within canopies, absorption by water itself had a negligible effect. Canopy BRDFs were not Lambertian and exhibited features related to canopy architecture. Model outputs validated well in terms of energy conservation and empirical measurements of within‐canopy PAR attenuation. The model framework has clear applications to improve understanding of seagrass canopy light harvesting and photosynthetic carbon fixation and to aid the development of quantitative biooptical remote sensing methods for seagrass beds.
Characterization of particulate organic matter in the water column of the South China Sea using a shotgun proteomic approach
Authors: Dong Hong-Po , Wang Da-Zhi , Dai Minhan , Hong Hua-Sheng
Published: May 2010

We characterized particulate organic matter (POM) collected from both the surface (41 m and 200 m) and mesopelagic layers (500 m and 1000 m) in the western South China Sea. By using a shotgun proteomic approach, a total of 3035 proteins matching one or more peptides were detected from four POM samples, 505 of which were identified as high‐confidence proteins matching two or more peptides. Cyanobacteria was the largest contributor throughout the water column, while crustaceans and dinophytes were the two major groups contributing to the particulate proteins in the POM collected from 200 m. Subcellular locations and biological processes of particulate proteins varied significantly between the 41‐m and 200‐m layers: photosynthesis‐associated proteins were highly abundant in the 41‐m layer while tubulins and actins accumulated in the midwaters, especially at the 200‐m layer. Porins, adenosine triphosphate synthases, nutrient transporters, molecular chaperones, and ectoenzymes were frequently detected in the POM samples and presented different distribution patterns within the water column, revealing complex biological processes at the different water layers and/or during the sinking of POM. The sources of surface and midwater particulate proteins are different, and the cellular metabolism, generation of energy, and transport processes in POM are attenuated rapidly down ocean water column. Zooplankton fecal pellet packages and membrane encapsulation might play important roles in protecting particulate proteins from degradation.
MIAWARA-C, a new ground based water vapor radiometer for measurement campaigns
Authors: Straub C. , Murk A. , Kaempfer N.
Published: May 2010

Abstract. In this paper a new 22 GHz water vapor spectro-radiometer which has been specifically designed for profile measurement campaigns of the middle atmosphere is presented. The instrument is of a compact design and has a simple set up procedure. It can be operated as a standalone instrument as it maintains its own weather station and a calibration scheme that does not rely on other instruments or the use of liquid nitrogen. The optical system of MIAWARA-C combines a choked gaussian horn antenna with a parabolic mirror which reduces the size of the instrument in comparison with currently existing radiometers. For the data acquisition a correlation receiver is used together with a digital cross correlating spectrometer. The complete backend section, including the computer, is located in the same housing as the instrument. The receiver section is temperature stabilized to avoid gain fluctuations. Calibration of the instrument is achieved through a balancing scheme with the sky used as the cold load and the tropospheric properties are determined by performing regular tipping curves. Since MIAWARA-C is used in measurement campaigns it is important to be able to determine the elevation pointing in a simple manner as this is a crucial parameter in the calibration process. Here we present two different methods; scanning the sky and the Sun. Finally, we report on the first spectra and retrieved water vapor profiles acquired during the Lapbiat campaign at Sodankylä Geophysical Observatory. The performance of MIAWARA-C is validated here by comparison of the presented profiles against the equivalent profiles from the Microwave Limb Sounder on the EOS/Aura satellite.
Description and evaluation of GLOMAP-mode: a modal global aerosol microphysics model for the UKCA composition-climate model
Authors: Mann G. W. , Carslaw K. S. , Spracklen D. V. , Ridley D. A. , Manktelow P. T. , Chipperfield M. P. , Pickering S. J. , Johnson C. E.
Published: May 2010

Abstract. A new version of the Global Model of Aerosol Processes (GLOMAP) is described, which uses a two-moment modal aerosol scheme rather than the original two-moment bin scheme. GLOMAP-mode simulates the multi-component global aerosol, resolving sulphate, sea-salt, dust, black carbon (BC) and particulate organic matter (POM), the latter including primary and biogenic secondary POM. Aerosol processes are simulated in a size-resolved manner including primary emissions, secondary particle formation by binary homogeneous nucleation of sulphuric acid and water, particle growth by coagulation, condensation and cloud-processing and removal by dry deposition, in-cloud and below-cloud scavenging. A series of benchmark observational datasets are assembled against which the skill of the model is assessed in terms of normalised mean bias (b) and correlation coefficient (R). Overall, the model performs well against the datasets in simulating concentrations of aerosol precursor gases, chemically speciated particle mass, condensation nuclei (CN) and cloud condensation nuclei (CCN). Surface sulphate, sea-salt and dust mass concentrations are all captured well, while BC and POM are biased low (but correlate well). Surface CN concentrations compare reasonably well in free troposphere and marine sites, but are underestimated at continental and coastal sites related to underestimation of either primary particle emissions or new particle formation. The model compares well against a compilation of CCN observations covering a range of environments and against vertical profiles of size-resolved particle concentrations over Europe. The simulated global burden, lifetime and wet removal of each of the simulated aerosol components is also examined and each lies close to multi-model medians from the AEROCOM model intercomparison exercise.
An expression for the water-sediment moving layer in unsteady flows valid for open channels and embankments
Authors: Berta A. M. , Bianco G.
Published: May 2010

Abstract. During the floods, the effects of sediment transport in river beds are particulary significant and can be studied through the evolution of the water-sediment layer which moves in the lower part of a flow, named "moving layer". Moving layer variations along rivers lead to depositions and erosions and are typically unsteady, but are often tackled with expressions developed for steady (equilibrium) conditions. In this paper, we develop an expression for the moving layer in unsteady conditions and calibrate it with experimental data. During laboratory tests, we have in fact reproduced a rapidly changing unsteady flow by the erosion of a granular steep slope. Results have shown a clear tendency of the moving layer, for fixed discharges, toward equilibrium conditions. Knowing the equilibrium achievement has presented many difficulties, being influenced by the choice of the equilibrium expression and moreover by the estimation of the parameters involved (for example friction angle). Since we used only data relevant to hyper-concentrated mono-dimensional flows for the calibration – occurring for slope gradients in the range 0.03–0.20 – our model can be applied both on open channels and on embankments/dams, providing that the flows can be modelled as mono-dimensional, and that slopes and applied shear stress levels fall within the considered ranges.
Neutropenia in patients receiving anti–tumor necrosis factor therapy
Authors: Hastings Richard , Ding Tina , Butt Sayqa , Gadsby Kate , Zhang Weiya , Moots Robert J. , Deighton Chris
Published: May 2010

Objective

To examine the rates of and risk factors for neutropenia together with the dynamics of neutrophil and other white cell subset counts in a cohort of patients treated with a tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor for inflammatory arthritis.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study examining the association between baseline demographics, clinical features, medications used, and development of neutropenia, and behavior of neutrophil and other white cell subset counts during TNF inhibitor therapy.

Results

In 367 patients (298 [81.2%] with rheumatoid arthritis, 38 [10.4%] with ankylosing spondylitis, and 31 [8.4%] with psoriatic arthritis), 69 (18.8%) had at least one episode of neutropenia (<2.0 × 109/liter) during TNF inhibitor therapy, and of these, 6% developed serious infections secondary to neutropenia. There was no significant difference in disease, demographic, or drug variables between patients with and without neutropenia. However, patients with neutropenia had significantly lower baseline neutrophil counts (4.2 × 109/liter; 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 3.8, 4.6 versus 6.2 × 109/liter; 95% CI 6.0, 6.5), and a previous history of neutropenia while receiving disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs increased the risk while receiving TNF inhibitors (hazard ratio 2.97; 95% CI 1.69, 5.25). A significant drop in mean neutrophil count (1.12 × 109/liter; 95% CI 0.92, 1.32) was observed after 2 weeks of TNF inhibitor therapy. Other white cell subsets tended to significantly increase.

Conclusion

TNF inhibitor therapy is associated with a significant reduction in peripheral blood neutrophil count, leading to 19% of patients becoming neutropenic. Risk of neutropenia is significantly higher in patients with a low baseline neutrophil count or previous history of neutropenia. We suggest that patients receiving TNF inhibitor therapy would benefit from regular complete blood cell count monitoring.
Clinical relevance of persistently elevated circulating cytokines (tumor necrosis factor α and interleukin‐6) in the long‐term followup of patients with giant cell arteritis
Authors: García‐Martínez Ana , Hernández‐Rodríguez José , Espígol‐Frigolé Georgina , Prieto‐González Sergio , Butjosa Montserrat , Segarra Marta , Lozano Ester , Cid Maria C.
Published: May 2010

Objective

To assess the clinical relevance of increased circulating cytokines in patients with giant cell arteritis (GCA) after long‐term followup.

Methods

We performed a cross‐sectional evaluation of 54 patients with biopsy‐proven GCA prospectively followed for a median of 5.4 years (range 4–10.5 years). GCA‐related complications, vascular events, relapses, current prednisone dose, time required to achieve a maintenance prednisone dosage <10 mg/day, cumulated prednisone at that point, and adverse effects during followup were recorded. Serum interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) were determined by immunoassay.

Results

All patients were in clinical remission. Both cytokines were significantly higher in patients than in controls (mean ± SD 21 ± 35 versus 5 ± 11 pg/ml; P < 0.001 for IL‐6 and mean ± SD 32 ± 14 versus 16 ± 9 pg/ml; P < 0.001 for TNFα). No differences were found in patients with or without GCA‐related complications or vascular events during followup. Circulating cytokines were significantly higher in patients who had experienced relapses (mean ± SD 25 ± 39 versus 10 ± 11 pg/ml; P = 0.04 for IL‐6 and mean ± SD 34 ± 15 versus 25 ± 11 pg/ml; P = 0.042 for TNFα). IL‐6 was significantly higher in patients still requiring prednisone (mean ± SD 29 ± 45 versus 13 ± 17 pg/ml; P = 0.008), and TNFα correlated with cumulated prednisone dose (r = 0.292, P = 0.04). No significant relationship was found between elevated cytokines and prednisone adverse effects or patients' quality of life.

Conclusion

Circulating TNFα and IL‐6 may persist elevated in GCA patients after long‐term followup and remain higher in patients who have experienced more relapsing disease. However, in this patient cohort, elevated circulating cytokines were not associated with increased frequency of GCA complications, vascular events, or treatment‐related side effects.
Testing Metal‐Oxide Nanomaterials for Human Safety
Authors: Landsiedel Robert , Ma‐Hock Lan , Kroll Alexandra , Hahn Daniela , Schnekenburger Jürgen , Wiench Karin , Wohlleben Wendel
Published: May 2010

Nanomaterials can display distinct biological effects compared with bulk materials of the same chemical composition. The physico‐chemical characterization of nanomaterials and their interaction with biological media are essential for reliable studies and are reviewed here with a focus on widely used metal oxide and carbon nanomaterials. Available rat inhalation and cell culture studies compared to original results suggest that hazard potential is not determined by a single physico‐chemical property but instead depends on a combination of material properties. Reactive oxygen species generation, fiber shape, size, solubility and crystalline phase are known indicators of nanomaterials biological impact. According to these properties the summarized hazard potential decreases in the order multi‐walled carbon nanotubes >> CeO2, ZnO > TiO2 > functionalized SiO2 > SiO2, ZrO2, carbon black. Enhanced understanding of biophysical properties and cellular effects results in improved testing strategies and enables the selection and production of safe materials.
Liquid Crystalline Elastomers as Actuators and Sensors
Authors: Ohm Christian , Brehmer Martin , Zentel Rudolf
Published: May 2010

This review collects recent developments in the field of liquid crystalline elastomers (LCEs) with an emphasis on their use for actuator and sensor applications. Several synthetic pathways leading to crosslinked liquid crystalline polymers are discussed and how these materials can be oriented into liquid crystalline monodomains are described. By comparing the actuating properties of different systems, general structure–property relationships for LCEs are obtained. In the final section, how these materials can be turned into usable devices using different interdisciplinary techniques are described.
Efficient Tandem Biocatalytic Process for the Kinetic Resolution of Aromatic β‐Amino Acids
Authors: Wu Bian , Szymański Wiktor , de Wildeman Stefaan , Poelarends Gerrit J. , Feringa Ben L. , Janssen Dick B.
Published: May 2010

We describe a simple and efficient enzymatic tandem reaction for the preparation of enantiomerically pure β‐phenylalanine and its analogues from the corresponding racemates. In this process, phenylalanine aminomutase (PAM) catalyzes the stereoselective isomerization of (R)‐β‐phenylalanines to (S)‐α‐phenylalanines, which are in situ transformed to cinnamic acids by phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL). Preparative scale conversions are done with a mutated PAM with enhanced catalytic activity.
Hydrogen/Deuterium Exchange Reactions of Olefins with Deuterium Oxide Mediated by the Carbonylchlorohydrido‐ tris(triphenylphosphine)ruthenium(II) Complex
Authors: Tse Sunny Kai San , Xue Peng , Lin Zhenyang , Jia Guochen
Published: May 2010

The catalytic properties of several ruthenium, osmium and rhodium hydride complexes for hydrogen/deuterium (H/D) exchange between olefins and deuterium oxide (D2O) were investigated. The most effective catalytic precursor was found to be the carbonylchlorohydridotris(triphenylphosphine)ruthenium(II) complex. Through H/D exchange between metal hydride and D2O, and reversible olefin insertion into an RuH(D) bond, protons attached to olefinic carbons and alkyl chains of olefins can all undergo H/D exchange with D2O. The catalytic reactions can be used to deuterate both terminal and internal olefins, for example, styrene, stilbene and cyclooctene.
NETmix®, a new type of static mixer: Experimental characterization and model validation
Authors: Laranjeira Paulo E. , Martins António A. , Nunes Maria Isabel , Lopes José Carlos B. , Dias Madalena M.
Published: May 2010

In a previous article (Laranjeira et al.), a network model was developed to describe and predict the behavior and performance of NETmix®, a new type of static mixer consisting of a network of interconnected chambers and channels. This work reports experimental results on a transparent prototype NETmix® unit constructed to enable the characterization of the mixing mechanisms at the local scale. Tracer flow visualization experiments show that the mixing characteristics in the NETmix® unit depend on the Reynolds number both for macromixing and micromixing. A critical Reynolds number for the onset of mixing was obtained where oscillating flow in the chambers is observed. Chemical reaction experiments were done using test reactions systems that exhibit mixing effects in the final product distribution and selectivity. Reaction selectivity was shown to depend on the reactants injection scheme. Theoretical predictions obtained with the network model were in agreement with experimental data for high Reynolds numbers. © 2010 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2011