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Highlights • Incoming wave's momentum slow down expanding freshwater plume. • Wave injected turbulence deepens the plume. • Wave-current interaction at the plume region is an intense and interrelated process. • Taking into account freshwater inflow for similar inlet systems is crucial. Abstract In this research, a three-dimensional coupled wave-circulation model, including meteorological forcing, freshwater inflow and time varying open boundary conditions, for New River Inlet is validated. A mechanistic approach is taken to investigate how various wave-current interaction mechanisms affect the nearshore circulation, plume expansion and surface wave field in the plume region of a relatively small partially mixed tidal estuarine system. More specifically, focus is comparing four different modeling cases including: (1) a three-dimensional ocean circulation model (no wave effects), (2) a coupled wave-circulation model, (3) a coupled wave and circulation model including vertical mixing enhancement due to wave breaking, and (4) a wave model without surface current effects. Findings reveal forces are applied by incoming waves due to various wave-current interaction mechanisms. Wave momentum released by incoming waves pushes the outgoing freshwater ebb plume back to the shoreline and prevents the plume from expanding freely towards the open ocean. Findings also reveals that releasing wave-dissipated energy in the expanding plume region enhances vertical mixing, mixes down freshwater, and therefore thickens the plume. These results are congruent with observations at the mouth of the Columbia River. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hintergrund: Pflanzliche Arzneimittel werden in Deutschland traditionell sehr häufig genutzt. Vor allem in der Selbstmedikation stellen sie eine wichtige Therapieoption dar.Methodik: Aktuelle systematische Übersichtsarbeiten und Metaanalysen wurden hinsichtlich der Evidenz phytotherapeutischer Arzneimittel bei ausgesuchten psychischen Erkrankungen ausgewertet und zusammengefasst.Ergebnisse: Abgesehen von Johanniskraut bei Depressionen ist die Evidenzlage für kein Phytopharmakon in der Psychiatrie bisher überzeugend.Schlussfolgerung: Aufgrund der vielversprechenden Wirkungen und dem niedrigen Nebenwirkungspotenzial in den vorhandenen Studien sind weitere randomisiert kontrollierte Studien (z. B. für Passiflora incarnata, Rhodiola rosea oder Lavendula officinalis) jedoch durchaus indiziert. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three large wave events are simulated with WaveWatch III using different wind inputs and physics packages. The modeled output, including spectral shape and bulk parameter time series, are compared with National Data Buoy Center buoy observations offshore of Newport, Oregon. The atmospheric conditions that generate these large waves include a strong southerly wind along with a distant cyclone. The energetic contributions of these simultaneously occurring atmospheric features result in a wave field characterized by bimodal energy spectra for two events and unimodal energy spectra for the third event. The analysis of model output evaluates bulk parameter time series of significant wave height, mean period, and mean wave direction derived from partitioned energy spectra. A consistent underestimation in wave energy approaching from the southwestern direction is found for the output associated with all model configurations. This wave energy is generated by the southerly wind. An overestimation in swell energy approaching from the northwest is also found for all model configurations. The model configuration that most accurately reproduces the southerly wave energy results in the best performance for the overall bulk parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study involved developing and testing a data assimilation framework that accommodates different types of geophysical ocean data (i.e., surface velocity and wave information) and provides an estimation of the bathymetry of a mixed-energy tidal inlet. This framework was successfully applied to a highly variable tidal environment using synthetic data (twin test). The synthetic data consisted of surface velocity components associated with the tidal circulation and wavenumber-frequency pairs of incoming surface gravity waves that mimic data that could be derived from an airborne synthetic aperture radar system and a tower-mounted X-band radar system, respectively. The present ensemble-based assimilation framework has previously been applied in both wave-dominated coastal and current-dominated riverine environments. In contrast, the inlet environment is neither wave nor current dominated. The assimilation of wave and current data together was most useful to obtain a skillful estimate of the spatial map of bathymetry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interest in validating the eddy covariance (EC) technique under wave-induced flows led to a series of experiments in a 104-m-long large wave flume (LWF) using an acoustic Doppler velocimeter (ADV) and two oxygen microelectrodes (tips ~2 mm apart) mounted on a sturdy tripod. Four additional ADVs positioned within the flume provided comparative near-bed velocity measurements during experiments with irregular waves over a sand bed. These measurements revealed that modifications of local turbulence by the tripod frame were insignificant. However, errors in velocity measurements were at times observed for setups where the microelectrode tips protruded into the ADV's measurement volume. Disparate oxygen microelectrode velocity effects (stirring sensitivities) combined with response time offsets were also identified as problems, adding biases to EC flux derivations. Microelectrode velocity effects were further investigated through modeling designed to mimic the LWF data, and through examination of a 12-h dataset from the Oregon shelf. The modeling showed that under progressive waves, an artificial EC flux, or bias, arises most severely when the velocity sensitivity of the microelectrode is unequal in opposing flow directions or augmented by horizontal currents, and the velocity and oxygen data are not perfectly aligned in time. Sensitivities to wave motions were seen in the oxygen measurements from the Oregon shelf, contributing to an average flux of +2.7 ± 0.6 mmol m−2 day−1 (SE, n = 22) at wave frequencies. Since overall EC fluxes equaled only −4.1 ± 1.8 mmol m−2 day−1 (SE, n = 22), sources of EC biasing coupled to waves cannot be ruled out as potential problems for estimating exact benthic oxygen fluxes under common continental shelf field conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The undertow is one of the most important mechanisms for sediment transport in nearshore regions. As such, its formulation has been an active subject of research for at least the past 40 years. Still, much debate persists on the exact nature of the forcing and theoretical expression of this current. Here, assuming linear wave theory and keeping most terms in the wave momentum equations, a solution to the undertow in the surf zone is derived, and it is shown that it is unique. It is also shown that, unless they are erroneous, most solutions presented in the literature are identical, albeit simplified versions of the solution presented herein. Finally, it is demonstrated that errors in past derivations of the undertow profile stem from inconsistencies between (1) the treatment of advective terms in the momentum equations and the wave action equation, (2) the expression of the mean current equation and the surface shear stress, and (3) the omission of bottom shear stress in the momentum equation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Detailed wave energy resource assessments are necessary for the planning and design of wave energy converters. The waves in the U.S. Pacific Northwest have been identified as very energetic making this coast potentially suitable for wave energy harvesting. Several efforts to harvest this resource are under way in this region, however no long term, high resolution description of the resource is presently available. Here, the results of a 7 year hindcast are presented at a 30 arc-second resolution using the numerical models WAVEWATCH III and SWAN. The hindcast accuracy was quantified by comparing to measured buoy data yielding linear correlation coefficients ∼0.90 for the significant wave height. This study describes the alongshore variability of the resource over the continental shelf. The general decline of the wave power with depth is explained by considerations of wave refraction and shoaling. Further, due to wave refraction, areas off the central and southwest Oregon coast are identified that show increased wave power at 50 m of water in comparison with the 250 m value. These areas also show increased temporal variability. In addition, areas with preferentially narrower wave spectra in both frequency and direction are identified off southwest Oregon. Further, general trends in the directionality of the resource indicate a systematic switch in the wave direction with latitude. The seasonality of the resource is also assessed in terms of variability and trends relevant to the planning and deployment of wave energy converters. The continental shelf is mapped in terms of the coefficient of variability, which is greater (smaller) than unity during the summer (winter) and regardless of the season smaller in southwest Oregon. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Undertow and longshore current profiles outside of the surf zone were analyzed using a canonical situation involving an alongshore-uniform barred beach. Forcing mechanisms due to the presence of surface gravity waves are of interest. As is customary for surf zone studies, dynamics related to wave breaking and associated wave rollers were included. Also considered were the effects of the wave orbital velocities on the bottom and surface boundary layers. The effect of Earth's rotation in the dynamics is included through two mechanisms: (1) the Coriolis-Stokes stress that results from the effect of Earth's rotation on the wave orbital velocities, and (2) the Coriolis terms in the cross-shore and alongshore momentum equations. Model results qualitatively reproduce observed undertow profile shapes inside and just outside of the surf zone, as well as a few surf zone widths offshore and far offshore on the inner shelf. In particular, the results explain the surface-intensified undertow currents often observed outside the surf zone. The Coriolis-Stokes stress is not active inside the surf zone; but it is an important player, along with the other considered dynamics, in shaping the profiles outside of the surf zone. The model also suggests the presence of an alongshore current outside the surf zone that is generated owing to the effects of the Coriolis terms in the momentum equations. An analysis of the temporal spin-up behavior of the predictions suggest that circulation patterns strongly influenced by Earth's rotation should be observable in the field within a few hours after the onset of wave activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An operational inner-shelf wave forecasting system was implemented for the Oregon and southwest Washington coast in the U.S. Pacific Northwest (PNW). High-resolution wave forecasts are useful for navigational planning, identifying wave energy resources, providing information for site-specific coastal flood models, and having an informed recreational beach user group, among other things. This forecasting model is run once a day at 1200 UTC producing 84-h forecasts. A series of nested grids with increasing resolution shoreward are implemented to achieve a 30-arc-second resolution at the shelf level. This resolution is significantly higher than what the current operational models produce, thus improving the ability to quantify the alongshore variations of wave conditions on the PNW coast. Normalized root-mean-squared errors in significant wave height and mean wave period range from 0.13 to 0.24 and from 0.13 to 0.26, respectively. Visualization of the forecasts is made available online and is presently being used by recreational beach users and the scientific community. A series of simulations, taking advantage of having a validated shelf-scale numerical wave model, suggests that neither dissipation due to bottom friction nor wind generation is important in the region at this scale for wave forecasting and hindcasting when considering bulk parameters as opposed to the processes of refraction and shoaling. The Astoria and McArthur Canyons; the Stonewall, Perpetua, and Heceta Banks; and Cape Blanco are significant bathymetric features that are shown to be capable of producing alongshore variability of wave heights on the shelf. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A method is presented for estimating bathymetry in a river, based on observations of depth-averaged velocity during steady flow. The estimator minimizes a cost function that combines known information in the form of a prior estimate and measured data (including measurement noise). State augmentation is used to relate the measured variable (velocity) to the unknown parameter (bathymetry). Specifically, the unknown consists of deviations in depth about a known along-channel mean. Verification of the method is performed using a simple 1D channel geometry as well as for two real-world reaches. In all cases, the verification is based on nominal river depths of 3-10 m, channel widths of 50-100 m, and Froude numbers much less than one. Further tests are performed to assess the usefulness of various observation types and sampling schemes for this type of estimation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A wave-structure interaction model is implemented, and power output estimates are made for a simplified wave energy converter operating in measured spectral wave conditions. In order to estimate power output from a wave energy converter, device response to hydrodynamic forces is computed using a boundary element method potential flow model. A method is outlined for using the hydrodynamic response to estimate power output. This method is demonstrated by considering an idealized non-resonating wave energy converter with one year of measured spectral wave conditions from the Oregon coast. The power calculation is performed in the frequency domain assuming a passive tuning system which is tuned at time scales ranging from hourly to annually. It is found that there is only a 3% gain in productivity by tuning hourly over tuning annually, suggesting that for a non-resonating wave energy converter, power output is not very sensitive to the value of the power take off damping. Interaction between wave energy converters in arrays is also considered, and results for an array of idealized point absorbers suggests that interactions are minimal when devices are placed 10 diameters apart from each other. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Models for surface gravity wave propagation in the presence of currents often assume the current field to be quasi-stationary, which implies that the absolute wave frequency is time invariant. However, in the presence of unsteady currents or time-varying water depth, linear wave theory predicts a time variation of the absolute wave frequency (and wavenumber). Herein, observations of wave frequency modulations from a large-scale laboratory experiment are presented. In this case, the modulations are caused by both unsteady depths and unsteady currents due to the presence of low-frequency standing waves. These new observations allow a unique and detailed verification of the theoretical predictions regarding variations in the absolute wave frequency. In addition, analytic solutions for the variations in frequency and wave height induced by the unsteady medium are found through a perturbation analysis. These solutions clarify the dependency of the wave frequency/wave height modulations on the characteristics of the unsteady medium. We also find that analytic solutions for simplified basin configurations provide an order of magnitude estimate of the expected frequency modulation effect. Finally, the importance of this phenomenon in natural situations is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We utilize beach profile data from 37 profile locations on the Atlantic coast of Delaware that were surveyed an average of 12 times between 1964 and 1993 to assess the validity of several equilibrium beach profile (EBP) formulations. Under consideration are (1) a power law formulation; (2) a formulation including the effects of downslope transport; and (3) a modified form of the latter model suggested herein. We perform a least-square fit of these models to the individual observed profiles, the mean profiles at the 37 locations, as well as regionally averaged profiles over eight geographically distinct regions. The analysis results in best-fit values for the model coefficients. The results indicate that the first model is robust and predicts observed mean and regionally averaged profiles with an estimated normalized error of 26 and 15%, respectively. However, the predicted beach slopes near the shoreline are infinite and, hence, unphysical. The second model includes the effects of downslope transport and remedies this shortcoming. Predictions are drastically improved (15 and 6% relative errors for mean and regionally averaged profiles, respectively), but the coefficient values required for these predictions are outside of the physically justifiable range for beaches with an average slope that is of comparable magnitude to the foreshore slope. When physically realizable coefficient values are used the predictive skill of this model is low (with relative errors up to 50% for the regionally averaged profiles). We find that the problem arises because of the dominance of the gravity-related term over much of the profile and suggest a heuristic remedy that restricts the effect of the gravity term to a region close to the shoreline. This modified model has a high skill (15 and 6% relative errors for mean and regionally averaged profiles, respectively) while still retaining robust and reasonable values for the model coefficients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Overhunting of red deer (Cervus elaphus) in eastern Switzerland led to its extinction in the second half of the 17th century. Natural recolonization must have taken place later, because red deer were seen again in the canton of the Grisons (eastern Switzerland) in the 1870s. According to historical data, three different populations could have served as the source population. To determine the genetic origin of the eastern Swiss red deer population, we collected samples from five different subpopulations in the canton of the Grisons as well as from four adjacent populations in Germany, Liechtenstein, Austria, and Italy. We analyzed the samples by genotyping 18 microsatellite loci. FST values, assignment tests, correspondence analysis, and fuzzy clustering clearly pointed to Liechtenstein as the most probable source population for the red deer in eastern Switzerland. In addition, our analyses revealed high gene diversity in all examined populations. Gene flow and the high genetic admixture are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary. Central cord syndrome may be associated with severe pain, resistant to conventional pain therapy regimens. Chronic pain may be a persistent problem in rehabilitation of spinal cord injuries. These pain syndromes are long lasting and challenging to treat. Gabapentin has been shown to be useful in treatment of different conditions which may be caused by increased neuronal excitability. This report describes a case where central cord syndrome and its chronic neuropathic pain associated with allodynia was successfully treated with gabapentin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lacidipine, a third generation dihydropyridine calcium antagonist, has demonstrated pronounced anti-atherosclerotic activity in preclinical studies. The drug can act at several stages within the atherosclerotic process, utilising its antihypertensive and antioxidant properties to protect hypertensive animals against mortality and vascular damage, to reduce cholesterol levels from the vessel wall of hypercholesterolaemic animals, and to reduce the progression of existing atherosclerotic lesions. The clinical benefit of lacidipine in atherosclerosis has recently been confirmed in humans in a large, multicentre, comparative, 4-year clinical trial involving patients with mild to moderate hypertension. The European Lacidipine Study on Atherosclerosis (ELSA) showed that lacidipine was able to slow the progression of atherosclerosis, measured as carotid intima-to-media thickness, by 40% compared with atenolol (p = 0.0073). Although further comparative trials are needed, based on the results of ELSA, lacidipine is likely to become a promising therapeutic agent for atherosclerosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Discusses the numerical model that predicts the evolution of a directional spectral sea state over a varying bathymetry using superposition of results of a parabolic monochromatic wave model run for each initial frequency-direction component. Description of the modeling scheme; Data comparisons for unidirectional random waves; Data comparisons for directional random waves.

Protein kinase C is an important second messenger system, which is translocated from the cytosol to the cell membrane upon cell stimulation. We used confocal microscopy to study the spatial distribution of protein kinase C isoforms after stimulation of cultured vascular smooth muscle cells with different agonists. First, we analysed the effects of angiotensin II and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF). Confocal microscopy showed a rapid assembly of PKC α along cytosolic fibres followed by a translocation towards the nucleus with angiotensin II. PDGF engendered a similar, but much slower response; however, a cytoskeletal distribution was not observed. We then investigated the effects of thrombin and bFGF on nuclear translocation. bFGF induced a rapid translocation of the isoform towards the perinuclear region and into the nucleus. bFGF had a similar effect on PKC ℇ. In contrast, thrombin had a smaller effect on nuclear translocation of PKC α and did not influence PKC ℇ, but instead induced a rapid nuclear translocation of PKC ζ. Thus, tyrosine kinase receptor activation via bFGF induces a rapid association of PKC α and ℇ within nuclear structures. Our results show that agonists cause, not only a translocation of protein kinase C isoforms into the cell membrane but also into the cell nucleus. Lastly, we analyzed the nuclear immunoreactivity of the PKC isoforms α, δ, ℇ and ζ in vascular smooth muscle cells during the cell cycle. Resting cells were stimulated with foetal calf serum (FCS, 10%), which translocated PKC α and ℇ to the perinuclear region and into the nucleus, while PKC δ and ζ showed no increase in nuclear immunoreactivity. After 4 h of FCS, the nuclear immunoreactivity for PKC α and ℇ was reduced to or below control values. At 8 h, increased nuclear expression of isoforms α, ℇ and ζ was observed, while isoform δ was not affected. Our results demonstrate a complex spatial and temporal regulation of PKC isoforms in response to vasoactive hormones and growth factors. We suggest that protein kinase C may be important for nuclear signaling and demonstrate that nuclear translocation of PKC isoforms is differentially regulated during the cell cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using the Surveys of Consumers, we probe the effect of news exposure on assessments of economic conditions. The analysis employs a double-track strategy, combining cross-sectional and time-series designs. The findings show the following: (1) close to half of the American public typically admits not getting any economic news; (2) across time the aggregate opinion of "no-news" respondents closely matches the opinion of those respondents exposed to economic news; (3) while there is a more noticeable contrast between those two groups in cross-sectional data, respondents without news share the dominant opinion of those with news; (4) indicators of economic performance closely predict the economic appraisals of the no-news segment of the public. These results indicate that news exposure, as reported by respondents, does not greatly matter for opinions about the economy. We discuss various challenges to those findings, some of which claim a more influential role for media news. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Looks at sequences of two players where each player `naively' assumes that his opponent follows a certain mixed strategy which can be learned by observing his behavior. Stages; Formation of Nash equilibrium; Convergence of learning processes.

Analyzes the economic expectations of American voters in their attempt to explain political choices. Measures of economic expectations; Surges and declines in business expectations; Psychological economics and expectations; Impact of economic disappointments on presidential approval ratings.

The optical recording characteristics of TeNx films are described. Te-nitride formation has been achieved by reactive sputtering. The optical writing properties vary drastically with increasing nitrogen incorporation. Films with moderate nitrogen content maintain good hole and rim forming properties while enhancing the sensitivity of the medium. These layers show a considerable resistance against rapid environmental stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An alternative metric for assessing nearshore hydrodynamic impact due to Wave Energy Converter (WEC) arrays is presented that is based on the modeled changes in alongshore radiation stress gradients in the lee of the array. The metric is developed using a previously observed relationship between measured radiation stresses and alongshore current magnitudes. Next, a parametric study is conducted using the spectral model SWAN to analyze the nearshore impact of different WEC array designs. A realistic range of array configurations, locations, and incident wave conditions are examined and conditions that generate alongshore radiation stress gradients exceeding a chosen impact threshold on a uniform beach are identified. Finally, the methodology is applied to two permitted WEC test sites to assess the applicability of the results to sites with more realistic bathymetries. For these sites, the overall trends seen in the changes in wave height, direction, and radiation stress gradients in the lee of the array are similar to those seen in the parametric study. However, interactions between the wave field and real bathymetry induce additional alongshore variability in wave-induced forcing. Results indicate that array-induced changes can exceed the natural variability up to 15% of the time with certain array designs and locations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A correction to the article "Waves on unsteady current" that was published in the 2007 issue is presented.

Different studies over the last decade have linked the B cell-attracting chemokine CXC ligand 13 ( CXCL13) to the autoimmune disease systemic lupus erythematosus ( SLE). A pathogenetic role of this chemokine for disease manifestation in SLE was described initially in mouse models for SLE. Mechanisms of CXCL13 actions were also identified in SLE patients. Moreover, various clinical studies have identified CXCL13 serum levels as a useful biomarker in patients with SLE of different ethnicities for disease activity. In addition, CXCL13 seems to be a promising marker for the diagnosis of lupus nephritis, one of the most severe complications of SLE. However, its exact place within the mechanisms that lead to SLE remains to be defined. Further research is needed to resolve more details of the pathomechanism and the signalling pathway of CXCL13 in SLE. Blocking CXCL13 or the signal pathways of CXCL13 is seen as a promising therapeutic approach for SLE and will be addressed in the near future. This review summarizes all papers that linked CXCL13 to SLE and highlights its importance in the pathogenesis and diagnosis of SLE [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Velocity measurements from drifter GPS records are used in an ensemble-based data assimilation technique to extract the river bathymetry. The method is tested on a deep meandering reach and a shallow braided reach of the Kootenai River in Idaho. The Regional Ocean Modeling System (ROMS) is used to model numerous statistically varied bathymetries to create an ensemble of hydrodynamic states. These states, the drifter observations, and the uncertainty of each are combined to form a cost function that is minimized to produce an estimated velocity field and bathymetry. The goals of this study are to assess whether ROMS can accurately reproduce the Kootenai River flow to an extent that depth estimation is feasible, to investigate if drifter paths are sensitive enough to bottom topography to make depth estimation possible, and to establish practical limitations of the present methodology. At both test sites, the depth estimation method produced a bathymetry that was more accurate than the prior estimate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome is a rare disease characterized by the triad of recurrent orofacial swelling with facial paralysis and fissured dorsal tongue. Histologically, noncaseating granulomatous inflammation occurs that confirms the diagnosis. Overlaps between granulomatous diseases such as sarcoidosis and Crohn's disease are described. Systemic corticosteroid therapy is the treatment of choice for acute attacks.Case Presentation: We here present a case of a 59-year-old White woman suffering from Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome with a past history of sarcoidosis on therapy with leflunomide in combination with low-dose tacrolimus successfully treated with the anti-leprosy drug clofazimine after failure of systemic steroid therapy.Conclusions: We propose clofazimine as an alternative treatment in steroid-refractory cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The substantial wave energy resource of the US Pacific Northwest (i.e. off the coasts of Washington, Oregon and N. California) is assessed and characterized. Archived spectral records from ten wave measurement buoys operated and maintained by the National Data Buoy Center and the Coastal Data Information Program form the basis of this investigation. Because an ocean wave energy converter must reliably convert the energetic resource and survive operational risks, a comprehensive characterization of the expected range of sea states is essential. Six quantities were calculated to characterize each hourly sea state: omnidirectional wave power, significant wave height, energy period, spectral width, direction of the maximum directionally resolved wave power and directionality coefficient. The temporal variability of these characteristic quantities is depicted at different scales and is seen to be considerable. The mean wave power during the winter months was found to be up to 7 times that of the summer mean. Winter energy flux also tends to have a longer energy period, a narrower spectral width, and a reduced directional spread, when compared to summer months. Locations closer to shore, where the mean water depth is less than 50 m, tended to exhibit lower omnidirectional wave power, but were more uniform directionally. Cumulative distributions of both occurrence and contribution to total energy are presented, over each of the six quantities characterizing the resource. It is clear that the sea states occurring most often are not necessarily those that contribute most to the total incident wave energy. The sea states with the greatest contribution to energy have significant wave heights between 2 and 5 m and energy periods between 8 and 12 s. Sea states with the greatest significant wave heights (e.g.>7 m) contribute little to the annual energy, but are critically important when considering reliability and survivability of ocean wave energy converters. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of saxagliptin vs. placebo in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and renal impairment. In this multicentre, randomized, parallel-group, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, patients with glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) 7-11% and creatinine clearance <50 ml/min were stratified by baseline renal impairment (moderate, severe or end-stage on haemodialysis), and randomized (1 : 1) to saxagliptin 2.5 mg once daily or placebo for 12 weeks. Oral antihyperglycaemic drugs and insulin therapy present at enrolment were continued throughout the study. The absolute change in HbA1c from baseline to week 12 (primary efficacy end-point) was analysed using an analysis of covariance model with last observation carried forward methodology. A total of 170 patients were randomized and treated. The adjusted mean decrease from baseline to week 12 in HbA1c was statistically significantly greater in the saxagliptin group than in the placebo group; the difference between treatments was −0.42% (95% confidence interval: −0.71 to −0.12%, p = 0.007). Adjusted mean HbA1c decreases from baseline to week 12 were numerically greater with saxagliptin than with placebo in the subgroups of patients with moderate (−0.64 vs. −0.05%) and severe (−0.95 vs. −0.50%) renal impairment. HbA1c reductions were similar between saxagliptin and placebo in the subgroup with end-stage renal disease on haemodialysis (−0.84 vs. −0.87%). Saxagliptin was generally well tolerated; incidences of adverse events and hypoglycaemic events were similar to placebo. Saxagliptin 2.5 mg once daily is a well-tolerated treatment option for patients with inadequately controlled T2DM and renal impairment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiovascular and chronic kidney disease are epidemic throughout industrialized societies. Diabetes leads to premature cardiovascular disease and is regarded by many as the most common etiological factor for chronic kidney disease. Because most studies of blood-pressure lowering agents in people with diabetes and hypertension have been conducted in individuals who already have some target organ damage, it is unclear whether earlier intervention could prevent or delay the onset of renal or systemic vascular disease. In early disease there is only a low possibility of observing cardiovascular or renal events; thus intervention trials in this population must rely on disease markers such as microalbuminuria. Accordingly, the authors review the evidence to support the use of microalbuminuria as a disease marker in diabetic patients based on its strong association with renal and cardiovascular events, and discuss recent trials that examine the impact of preventing or delaying the onset of microalbuminuria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: Chronic liver disease resulting from hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C (HCV) virus infections is still a major concern in kidney recipients. Our aim was to evaluate the prevalences, risk factors, and impact of HBV and HCV infections in adult renal transplant recipients in Germany. Materials and Methods: Data were collected on 1633 kidney recipients transplanted between 1989 and 2002 at the 21 German renal transplant centers participating in MOST, the prospective Multinational Observational Study in Transplantation. Subgroup analyses compared HBV- and HCV-positive patients vs those with HBV/HCV-negative serology at the time of transplantation. Results: The prevalences of 4.4% (n = 72) for HBV and 5.8% (n = 94) for HCV showed a marked decline over the last 15 years. Retransplantations were significantly more common among HBV+ (29%) and HCV+ (36%) than HBV−/HCV− patients (12%). HCV+ patients experienced significantly longer dialysis times and received significantly more pretransplantation blood transfusions. Between all groups, no significant differences were observed in acute rejection rate at 12 months or in renal graft function up to 5 years posttransplantation (mean glomerular filtration rate: HBV+, 57.3 mL/min; HCV+, 58.5 mL/min; HBV−/HCV−, 59 mL/min). No progressive elevations in liver enzymes and bilirubin were noted during the 5-year observation period. Conclusions: HBV and HCV infections currently have a low prevalence among German kidney graft recipients. Long dialysis times, blood transfusions, and retransplantations were identified as risk factors for hepatitis infections. At 5 years posttransplantation, kidney and liver functions did not differ significantly between HBV+ and HCV+ vs HBV−/HCV− renal transplant recipients. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Hyperlipidemia can induce or aggravate renal tubulointerstitial injury. Experiments in a complex rat model with chronic glomerulonephritis and long-standing, coexisting hyperlipidemia suggested that induction of xanthine oxidase (XO), with increased oxygen radical generation, is involved in aggravation of tubulointerstitial injury. To separate the role of XO in the initial events of lipid-mediated tubulointerstitial injury, short-term experiments with diet-induced hyperlipidemia over 21 and 35 days were performed in otherwise healthy rats. XO expression in relation to the antioxidant enzymes was examined in the cortical tubulointerstitium (TIS) and proximal tubules (PT). Subsequent experiments with XO inhibition were performed, examining tubulointerstitial infiltration with ED1-positive cells and expression of adhesion molecules and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) as indicators of early injurious events. Hyperlipidemia increased XO activity in TIS by 40 and 86%, and in PT by 28 and 90% at days 21 and 35, compared with controls on regular diet. This increased activity was associated with increased reactive oxygen species. Among the antioxidant enzymes, glutathione peroxidase activity increased in TIS by 40% and in PT by 90%. Histological evaluation showed a three-fold increase in ED1-positive cells and increased MCP-1 and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) expression at day 35 in the TIS. Inhibition of XO prevented tubulointerstitial ED1 cell infiltration, together with a decreased expression of MCP-1 and VCAM-1. These results point to an important role for XO in the early stage of hyperlipidemia-associated renal injury, mediating macrophage infiltration by a putatively redox-dependent upregulation of MCP-1 and VCAM-1.Kidney International (2006) 69, 481–487. doi:10.1038/sj.ki.5000121; published online 6 January 2006 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Introduction: We collected data from kidney recipients with a functioning graft at German kidney transplant centers in order to analyze the efficacy of various cyclosporine (CsA)-based immunosuppressive strategies, the effects of different perioperative and maintenance regimens, and the impact of donor source on clinical outcome. Methods: As part of the ongoing prospective Multinational Observational Study in Transplantation (MOST), data for both prospective and retrospective analysis were collected from kidney recipients over 18 years bearing a functioning graft that was transplanted at 21 German kidney transplant centers between 1987 and 2002. Results: Data from 1223 renal graft recipients, including their CsA-based immunosuppressive regimens, were stratified as: 402 de novo patients (median 6.8 months posttransplant) and 821 patients on maintenance therapy (median 71 months posttransplant). Triple regimens with CsA + mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) + steroids (Ste) currently comprise the major perioperative immunosuppressive strategies in Germany (de novo 65%). IL-2 receptor antagonist (IL-2Ra) use is increasing (de novo 18%, maintenance 4%), while mono and dual regimen use de novo is declining (de novo 4%, maintenance 20%). Among 689 patients transplanted between 1987 and 2002 with outcome data, the mean incidence of acute rejection during the first posttransplant year was 21.6%. Rejection rates on initial therapy with CsA + MMF + Ste ± antibodies (n = 517) averaged 17.8%. Conclusions: Between 1987 and 2002, CsA-based immunosuppression combined with MMF and Ste became the most commonly used strategy for both initial and maintenance therapy after kidney transplantation in Germany, yielding the low acute rejection rates particularly when combined with IL-2Ra. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Summary: Kidney injury significantly increases overall mortality. Neutrophilic granulocytes (neutrophils) are the most abundant human blood leukocytes. They are characterized by a high turnover rate, chiefly controlled by granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G‐CSF). The role of kidney injury and uremia in regulation of granulopoiesis has not been reported. Kidney transplantation, which inherently causes ischemia–reperfusion injury of the graft, elevated human neutrophil expression of the surface glycoprotein CD177. CD177 is among the most G‐CSF‐responsive neutrophil genes and reversibly increased on neutrophils of healthy donors who received recombinant G‐CSF. In kidney graft recipients, a transient rise in neutrophil CD177 correlated with renal tubular epithelial G‐CSF expression. In contrast, CD177 was unaltered in patients with chronic renal impairment and independent of renal replacement therapy. Under controlled conditions of experimental ischemia–reperfusion and unilateral ureteral obstruction injuries in mice, renal G‐CSF mRNA and protein expression significantly increased and systemic neutrophilia developed. Human renal tubular epithelial cell G‐CSF expression was promoted by hypoxia and proinflammatory cytokine interleukin 17A in vitro. Clinically, recipients of ABO blood group‐incompatible kidney grafts developed a larger rise in neutrophil CD177. Their grafts are characterized by complement C4d deposition on the renal endothelium, even in the absence of rejection. Indeed, complement activation, but not hypoxia, induced primary human endothelial cell G‐CSF expression. Our data demonstrate that kidney injury induces renal G‐CSF expression and modulates granulopoiesis. They delineate differential G‐CSF regulation in renal epithelium and endothelium. Altered granulopoiesis may contribute to the systemic impact of kidney injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hermansky-Pudlak Syndrome (HPS) is a rare disease caused by mutations in the genes coding for various HPS proteins. HPS proteins are part of multi-subunit complexes involved in the biogenesis of organelles from the lysosomal-endosomal-system. In humans, this syndrome is characterized by the presence of albinism, platelet dysfunction and pulmonary fibrosis. The renal component to the disease remains unstudied and untreated in patients with HPS. Here we demonstrate that in humans, HPS proteins have a high renal expression with active transcription of HPS1, 3, 4 and 5 in human podocyte cell culture, suggesting that impaired function of HPS proteins could directly impact renal function. Therefore, we developed a zebrafish model to study the renal involvement of HPS proteins in proteinuric kidney disease. Remarkably, knockdown of HPS genes in zebrafish causes glomerular injury with edema, proteinuria and structural changes of the glomerular filtration barrier. Moreover, reduced expression of HPS proteins in zebrafish recapitulates other important disease hallmarks, like hypopigmentation and accumulation of intracellular debris characteristic of lysosomal disorders. In conclusion, we present a valid zebrafish model that highlights the previously underestimated relevance of renal disease in HPS. This draws attention to the therapeutic options available to manage this component of the syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the presence of strong winds, ocean surface waves dissipate significant amounts of energy by breaking. Here, breaking rates and wave-following turbulent dissipation rate measurements are compared with numerical WAVEWATCH III estimates of bulk energy dissipation rate. At high winds, the measurements suggest that turbulent dissipation becomes saturated; however, the modeled bulk dissipation continues to increase as a cubic function of wind speed. Similarly, the mean square slope (i.e., the steepness) of the measured waves becomes saturated, while the modeled mean squared slope grows linearly with wind speed. Only a weak relation is observed between breaker fraction and wind speed, possibly because these metrics do not capture the scale (e.g., crest length) of the breakers. Finally, the model skill for basic parameters such as significant wave height is shown to be sensitive to the dissipation rate, indicating that the model skill may be compromised under energetic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Context Living kidney donation is considered a safe procedure with excellent outcomes. The great demand for organs has changed the suitability criteria for donation and older or hypertensive donors are increasingly accepted. Methods We reviewed the charts of 200 adults who donated a kidney at the University Hospital Hannover. Data regarding diastolic, systolic, mean blood pressure, renal function, and proteinuria at baseline and post-donation follow-up visits were recorded. A Mann-Whitney U test was performed to compare the post-nephrectomy development of blood pressure, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and proteinuria between men and women, hypertensives and normotensives, and older (≥65 years) and younger (<65 years) donors. Multivariable time-dependent Cox regression models were used to evaluate eGFR decline post-donation, after adjustment for covariates. Results The majority of donors were female (64.5%), and 29.0% had pre-existing hypertension. The mean age at donation was 49 years, and 9.5% were older than 65 years. During a median follow-up of 3 years, no significant differences in proteinuria and change in renal function were observed between both sexes or hypertensive and normotensive donors. In contrast, older donors exhibited a faster decline in renal function. Mean eGFR (chronic kidney disease epidemiology collaboration equation) pre-donation was 99.6 ± 21.9 mL/min in younger donors and 77.6 ± 17.7 mL/min in older donors (P <.001). The respective mean values at the last follow-up visit were 81.3 ± 24.0 and 46.8 ± 17.9 mL/min (P <.001). After adjustment for sex and preexisting hypertension, compared to younger donors, older donors had a 2.39 hazard ratio for eGFR decline. Conclusion Older adults display a faster decline in renal function after donation and thus should be carefully evaluated for suitability before donation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the tidal ebb-cycle at the Mouth of the Columbia River, strong density and velocity fronts sometimes form perpendicular to the coast at the edges of the freshwater plume. They are distinct from previously analyzed fronts at the offshore western edge of the plume that evolve as a gravity-wave bore. We present simulation results to demonstrate their occurrence and investigate the mechanisms behind their frontogenesis and evolution. Tidal velocities on average ranged between 1.5 m s − 1 in flood and 2.5 m s − 1 in ebb during the brief hindcast period. The tidal fronts exhibit strong horizontal velocity and buoyancy gradients on a scale  ∼ 100 m in width with normalized relative vorticity ( ζ z / f ) values reaching up to 50. We specifically focus on the front on the northern edge of the plume and examine the evolution in plume characteristics such as its water mass gradients, horizontal and vertical velocity structure, vertical velocity, turbulent vertical mixing, horizontal propagation, cross-front momentum balance, and Lagrangian frontogenetic tendencies in both buoyancy and velocity gradients. Advective frontogenesis leads to a very sharp front where lateral mixing near the grid-resolution limit arrests its further contraction. The negative vorticity within the front is initiated by the positive bottom drag curl on the north side of the Columbia estuary and against the north jetty. Because of the large negative vorticity and horizontal vorticity gradient, centrifugal and lateral shear instability begins to develop along the front, but frontal fragmentation and decay set in only after the turn of the tide because of the briefness of the ebb interval. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Describes a mastering process for optical-data disks. Advantage of optical-data storage technology; Considerations in selecting an etching technique for the indium-oxide layer; Steps of the mastering process.

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is a frequent complication of early posttransplantation. This study examines its impact on chronic allograft changes, long-term graft loss, and patient survival. We studied 594 patients who had protocol biopsies at 6 wk, and 3 and 6 mo posttransplantation. Chronic allograft changes were evaluated according to the updated Banff classification [interstitial fibrosis/tubular atrophy (IF/TA), vascular and glomerular lesions]. Follow-up data were available for up to 10 yr. CMV infection was diagnosed in 153 of 594 patients (26%) in the first year after transplantation, mostly within the first 3 mo. Graft survival was reduced in patients with CMV (P = 0.03) as well as the combined allograft/patient survival (P = 0.008). Prevalence of IF/TA at 6 wk after transplantation was already threefold higher in patients who experienced CMV infection later on compared with patients without CMV (P = 0.005). In multivariate analyses, CMV viremia or disease was not a significant factor for graft loss or death. In conclusion, patients with CMV infection posttransplantation show more chronic allograft changes early on, even before CMV infection, and development of IF/TA is not more prevalent in patients with CMV. Our data do not support a significant role of CMV in patient and graft outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper assesses operational impacts of large-scale ocean wave energy development in the US Pacific Northwest. High-resolution wave power production and forecasting data is synthesized for wave energy arrays spatially-distributed along the region's coast. Geographic diversification is found to limit the rate at which production variability scales with installed capacity, over timescales ranging from minutes to hours. The reduced variability makes it easier to forecast short-term wave generation accurately. When modeled within the operational structure of the region's primary balancing area authority, large-scale wave energy is found to provide a relatively high capacity value and costs less to integrate than equivalent amounts of wind energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Podocytes maintain the structure and function of the glomerular filtration barrier. However, podocytes have recently been implicated in the innate immune response, and their function as non-haematopoietic antigen-presenting cells was highlighted. We have shown previously that excessive expression of the chemokine CXCL13 is a distinctive early event for nephritis in a murine model of systemic lupus erythematosus ( SLE). Furthermore, we found that CXCL13 is elevated significantly in the serum of patients with SLE-nephritis. In this study, we were able to show for the first time that (i) CXCL13 is expressed locally in glomeruli in a model for SLE-nephritis in mice and that (ii) incubation of human podocytes with CXCL13 induces receptor stimulation of CXCR5 with activation of signalling pathways, resulting in (iii) secretion of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines in culture supernatant. This cytokine/chemokine cocktail can lead to (iv) a neutrophil respiratory burst in isolated human granulocytes. Taken together, our results provide further evidence that CXCL13 is involved in the pathogenesis of glomerulonephritis and that podocytes can play an active role in local proinflammatory immune responses. Thus, CXCL13 could be a direct target for the therapy of glomerulonephritis in general and for SLE-nephritis in particular. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renal ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) is associated with activation of the coagulation system and accumulation of blood clotting factors in the kidney. The aim of the present study was to examine the functional impact of fibrinogen on renal inflammation, damage, and repair in the context of I/R injury. In this study, we found that I/R was associated with a significant increase in the renal deposition of circulating fibrinogen. In parallel, I/R stress induced the de novo expression of fibrinogen in tubular epithelial cells, as reflected by RT-PCR, immunofluorescence, and in situ hybridization. In vitro, fibrinogen expression was induced by oncostatin M and hyper-IL-6 in primary tubular epithelial cells, and fibrinogen-containing medium had an inhibitory effect on tubular epithelial cell adhesion and migration. Fibrinogen+/- mice showed similar survival as wild-type mice but better preservation in early postischemic renal function. In fibrinogen-/- mice, renal function and survival were significantly worse than in fibrinogen+/- mice. Renal transplant experiments revealed reduced expression of tubular damage markers and attenuated proinflammatory cytokine expression but increased inflammatory cell infiltrates and transforming growth factor-ß expression in fibrinogen-/- isografts. These data point to heterogeneous effects of fibrinogen in renal I/R injury. While a complete lack of fibrinogen may be detrimental, partial reduction of fibrinogen in heterozygous mice can improve renal function and overall outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Burn depth and burn size are crucial determinants for assessing patients suffering from burns [1], Therefore, a correct evaluation of these factors is optimal for adapting the appropriate treatment in modern burn care. Burn surface assessment is subject to considerable differences among clinicians [2], This work investigated the accuracy among experts based on conventional surface estimation methods (e.g. "Rule of Palm", "Rule of Nines" or "Lund-Browder Chart"). The estimation results were compared to a computer-based evaluation method. Survey data was collected during one national and one international burn conference. The poll confirmed deviations of burn depth/size estimates of up to 62% in relation to the mean value of all participants. In comparison to the computer-based method, overestimation of up to 161% was found. We suggest introducing improved methods for burn depth/size assessment in clinical routine in order to efficiently allocate and distribute the available resources for practicing burn care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The murine heterotopic intestinal transplant model is of particular value for addressing the unique immune response in the gut and addressing the underlying immune mechanism during transplantation. Anastomotic stenosis, anastomotic bleeding, and septic shock continue to hamper procedures and plague the success. In this study, we assessed a refined technique designed to improve the success of heterotopic intestinal transplant in mice. Important factors in our refined technique included (1) a refined procedure for graft portal vein preparation, (2) a novel procedure for graft exteriorization, and most importantly (3) a knotless suturing technique designed to allow the surgeon to alter the size of the anastomosis, thus reducing anastomotic bleeding and stenosis rate. Our refined knotless method improved recipient survival to 67.5% when compared to the standard technique (53.8%). In comparison to standard knot suturing technique, which had an anastomotic stenosis rate of 8.3%, the knotless suturing technique significantly reduced the rate of anastomotic stenosis to only 2.4%. Anastomotic bleeding presented in the knotless technique in only 1.2%, whereas it presented in 6.2%, of mice in the standard technique (P < .05). This refined knotless technique offers an easy and effective method for murine heterotopic intestinal transplantation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]