bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of bark beetle infestation on monoterpene emissions and secondary organic aerosol formation in Western North America
Authors: Berg A. R. , Heald C. L. , Huff Hartz K. E. , Hallar A. G. , Meddens A. J. H. , Hicke J. A. , Lamarque J.-F. , Tilmes S.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. Over the last decade, extensive beetle outbreaks in Western North America have destroyed over 100 000 km2 of forest throughout British Columbia and the Western United States. Beetle infestations impact monoterpene emissions through both decreased emissions as trees are killed (mortality effect) and increased emissions in trees under attack (attack effect). We use 14 yr of beetle mortality data together with beetle-induced monoterpene concentration data in the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) Community Earth System Model (CESM) to investigate the impact of beetle mortality and attack on monoterpene emissions and secondary organic aerosol (SOA) formation in Western North America. Regionally, beetle infestations may have a significant impact on monoterpene emissions and SOA concentrations, with up to a 4-fold increase in monoterpene emissions and up to a 40% increase in SOA concentrations in some years (following a scenario where the attack effect is based on observed lodgepole pine response). Responses to beetle attack depend on the extent of previous mortality and the number of trees under attack in a given year, which can vary greatly over space and time. Simulated enhancements peak in 2004 (British Columbia) and 2008 (US). Responses to beetle attack are shown to be substantially larger (up to a 3-fold localized increase in SOA concentrations) when following a scenario based on bark-beetle attack in spruce trees. Placed in the context of observations from the IMPROVE network, the changes in SOA concentrations due to beetle attack are in most cases small compared to the large annual and interannual variability in total organic aerosol which is driven by wildfire activity in Western North America. This indicates that most beetle-induced SOA changes are not likely detectable in current observation networks; however these changes may impede efforts to achieve natural visibility conditions in the national parks and wilderness areas of the Western United States.
Uncertainties in model predictions of nitrogen fluxes from agro-ecosystems in Europe
Authors: Kros J. , Heuvelink G. B. M. , Reinds G. J. , Lesschen J. P. , Ioannidi V. , De Vries W.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. To assess the responses of nitrogen and greenhouse gas emissions to pan-European changes in land cover, land management and climate, an integrated dynamic model, INTEGRATOR, has been developed. This model includes both simple process-based descriptions and empirical relationships and uses detailed GIS-based environmental and farming data in combination with various downscaling methods. This paper analyses the propagation of uncertainties in model inputs and parameters to outputs of INTEGRATOR, using a Monte Carlo analysis. Uncertain model inputs and parameters were represented by probability distributions, while spatial correlation in these uncertainties was taken into account by assigning correlation coefficients at various spatial scales. The uncertainty propagation was analysed for the emissions of NH3, N2O and NOx, N leaching to groundwater and N runoff to surface water for the entire EU27 and for individual countries. Results show large uncertainties for N leaching and runoff (relative errors of ∼ 19% for Europe as a whole), and smaller uncertainties for emission of N2O, NH3 and NOx (relative errors of ∼ 12%). Uncertainties for Europe as a whole were much smaller compared to uncertainties at country level, because errors partly cancelled out due to spatial aggregation.
Bioerosion by microbial euendoliths in benthic foraminifera from heavy metal-polluted coastal environments of Portovesme (south-western Sardinia, Italy)
Authors: Cherchi A. , Buosi C. , Zuddas P. , De Giudici G.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. A monitoring survey of the coastal area facing the industrial area of Portoscuso-Portovesme (south-western Sardinia, Italy) revealed intense bioerosional processes. Benthic foraminifera collected at the same depth (about 2 m) but at different distances from the pollution source show extensive microbial infestation, anomalous Mg/Ca molar ratios and high levels of heavy metals in the shell associated with a decrease in foraminifera richness, population density and biodiversity with the presence of morphologically abnormal specimens. We found that carbonate dissolution induced by euendoliths is selective, depending on the Mg content and morpho-structural types of foraminiferal taxa. This study provides evidences for a connection between heavy metal dispersion, decrease in pH of the sea-water and bioerosional processes on foraminifera.
Production, partitioning and stoichiometry of organic matter under variable nutrient supply during mesocosm experiments in the tropical Pacific and Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Franz J. M. S. , Hauss H. , Sommer U. , Dittmar T. , Riebesell U.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. Oxygen-deficient waters in the ocean, generally referred to as oxygen minimum zones (OMZ), are expected to expand as a consequence of global climate change. Poor oxygenation is promoting microbial loss of inorganic nitrogen (N) and increasing release of sediment-bound phosphate (P) into the water column. These intermediate water masses, nutrient-loaded but with an N deficit relative to the canonical N:P Redfield ratio of 16:1, are transported via coastal upwelling into the euphotic zone. To test the impact of nutrient supply and nutrient stoichiometry on production, partitioning and elemental composition of dissolved (DOC, DON, DOP) and particulate (POC, PON, POP) organic matter, three nutrient enrichment experiments were conducted with natural microbial communities in shipboard mesocosms, during research cruises in the tropical waters of the southeast Pacific and the northeast Atlantic. Maximum accumulation of POC and PON was observed under high N supply conditions, indicating that primary production was controlled by N availability. The stoichiometry of microbial biomass was unaffected by nutrient N:P supply during exponential growth under nutrient saturation, while it was highly variable under conditions of nutrient limitation and closely correlated to the N:P supply ratio, although PON:POP of accumulated biomass generally exceeded the supply ratio. Microbial N:P composition was constrained by a general lower limit of 5:1. Channelling of assimilated P into DOP appears to be the mechanism responsible for the consistent offset of cellular stoichiometry relative to inorganic nutrient supply and nutrient drawdown, as DOP build-up was observed to intensify under decreasing N:P supply. Low nutrient N:P conditions in coastal upwelling areas overlying O2-deficient waters seem to represent a net source for DOP, which may stimulate growth of diazotrophic phytoplankton. These results demonstrate that microbial nutrient assimilation and partitioning of organic matter between the particulate and the dissolved phase are controlled by the N:P ratio of upwelled nutrients, implying substantial consequences for nutrient cycling and organic matter pools in the course of decreasing nutrient N:P stoichiometry.
Urbanization suitability maps: a dynamic spatial decision support system for sustainable land use
Authors: Cerreta M. , De Toro P.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. Recent developments in land consumption assessment identify the need to implement integrated evaluation approaches, with particular attention to the development of multidimensional tools for guiding and managing sustainable land use. Land use policy decisions are implemented mostly through spatial planning and its related zoning. This involves trade-offs between many sectorial interests and conflicting challenges seeking win-win solutions. In order to identify a decision-making process for land use allocation, this paper proposes a methodological approach for developing a Dynamic Spatial Decision Support System (DSDSS), denominated Integrated Spatial Assessment (ISA), supported by Geographical Information Systems (GIS) combined with the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). Through empirical investigation in an operative case study, an integrated evaluation approach implemented in a DSDSS helps produce "urbanization suitability maps" in which spatial analysis combined with multi-criteria evaluation methods proved to be useful for both facing the main issues relating to land consumption as well as minimizing environmental impacts of spatial planning.
100th anniversary of the discovery of cosmic radiation: the role of Günther and Tegetmeyer in the development of the necessary instrumentation
Authors: Fricke R. G. A. , Schlegel K.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. The year 2012 marks the 100th anniversary of the discovery of cosmic radiation by the Austrian physicist Victor Franz Hess (1883–1964), obtained onboard manned balloons, one of them launched up to an altitude of 5.3 km. His discovery earned him the Nobel Prize in 1936. The discovery follows in the context of the investigation of atmospheric electricity and of the newly discovered radioactivity, in particular with respect to γ rays. Starting from simple ionization chambers, the instruments were developed during an interplay between functional requirements, scientific progress and available manufacturing technologies. The authors of this contribution take this anniversary as an opportunity to describe the instrumentation used by Hess, as well as further developments in the instrumentation which took place in the decades following Hess' discovery. This manuscript also discusses details of the company who manufactured Hess' instrument, ''Günther & Tegetmeyer'' based in Braunschweig, Germany. This company did not only build instruments for Hess and the research on cosmic rays, but also for other scientific disciplines and for well-known researchers and discoverers.
Local scale multiple quantitative risk assessment and uncertainty evaluation in a densely urbanised area (Brescia, Italy)
Authors: Lari S. , Frattini P. , Crosta G. B.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. The study of the interactions between natural and anthropogenic risks is necessary for quantitative risk assessment in areas affected by active natural processes, high population density and strong economic activities. We present a multiple quantitative risk assessment on a 420 km2 high risk area (Brescia and surroundings, Lombardy, Northern Italy), for flood, seismic and industrial accident scenarios. Expected economic annual losses are quantified for each scenario and annual exceedance probability-loss curves are calculated. Uncertainty on the input variables is propagated by means of three different methodologies: Monte-Carlo-Simulation, First Order Second Moment, and point estimate. Expected losses calculated by means of the three approaches show similar values for the whole study area, about 64 000 000 € for earthquakes, about 10 000 000 € for floods, and about 3000 € for industrial accidents. Locally, expected losses assume quite different values if calculated with the three different approaches, with differences up to 19%. The uncertainties on the expected losses and their propagation, performed with the three methods, are compared and discussed in the paper. In some cases, uncertainty reaches significant values (up to almost 50% of the expected loss). This underlines the necessity of including uncertainty in quantitative risk assessment, especially when it is used as a support for territorial planning and decision making. The method is developed thinking at a possible application at a regional-national scale, on the basis of data available in Italy over the national territory.
Synthesis and Optical Characterization of Mg1-xNixO Nanostructures
Authors: Budiredla Nageswararao , Kumar Ashok , Thota Subhash , Kumar Jitendra
Published: November 2012

An attempt has been made here to synthesize nano-powders via sol-gel process. These powders are shown to possess an f.c.c. (NaCl-type) structure with a typical lattice parameter of  Å for when decomposition of dried oxalate gel product is carried out at 600°C for 2 h in air. Moreover, they exhibit (i) clusters/agglomerates of nanosize particles and (ii) high BET specific surface area (123.0–135.5 m2/g). Also, the infrared absorption spectra reveal their strong affinity to water. The UV-Vis absorption peaks appearing at ~202 nm, 296 nm, and 379 nm are associated with oxygen defect centres and correspond to the electronic transitions (i) (, , or ), (ii) (, or ) and (iii) (), respectively. The incorporation of Ni2+ ions causes some modifications in the energy levels and the optical absorbance characteristics. The suppression of a strong broad emission peak at 440 nm and improvement of a weak band at 400 nm in the photoluminescence (PL) spectrum arise due to decrease in population density of centres (or F+ dimmers) and emergence of additional F+ centres, respectively with increase in nickel content.
Oxalic Acid Regeneration of Ceramic Filter Medium Used in the Dewatering of Iron Ore
Authors: Salmimies Riina , Kallas Juha , Ekberg Bjarne , Häkkinen Antti
Published: November 2012

The regeneration of the ceramic filter medium in the dewatering of iron ore enables the use of the medium for much longer periods in comparison to traditional filter cloths. The regeneration is commonly a combination of several techniques, of which one is the acid washing of the medium. Despite being effective against iron oxides, the phenomena related to the acid washing of the ceramic filter medium with oxalic acid have so far been less extensively published. The aim of this study was to investigate the dissolution of iron oxide particles from the surface of the filter medium and the consequent changes in the performance and in the structure of the medium. The dissolution of the particles was found to exhibit some kind of a steady state dependent on temperature but not so much on the acid concentration. Changes in permeability as well as in pore size were found to take place even after the dissolution of the particles had ceased.
Worm-like robotic systems: Generation, analysis and shift of gaits using adaptive control
Authors: Schwebke Silvan , Behn Carsten
Published: November 2012

The starting point of this work is a biologically inspired model of a worm-like locomotion system (WLLS). The mechanical model comprises discrete mass points connected by viscoelastic force actuators. Ground contact is constituted by ideal spikes which act as constraint forces, preventing backward motion for each mass point equipped with them. The distances between each two consecutive mass points are changed by an adaptive controller in order to track a reference trajectory. In combination with the ground contact via spikes, this results in a (undulatory) locomotion of the system.After presenting the aforementioned model and the adaptive controller, the construction of specific reference functions, which result in certain gaits, is described. For this purpose an existing algorithm is used; it allows for defining the number and succession of the active spikes as well as the resulting velocity. In the following gait examination, simulations for worm systems with four mass points are carried out to find a selection of those gaits most suitable in terms of actuator and spikes load. Prior to implementing the automatic gait change, simulations are carried out to determine the criteria for shifting: actuator and spike forces. With those criteria, the choice of the optimal gait depends on both locomotion speed and ground inclination. An approximation of the forces mentioned before enables a formulation of inclination-dependent speed intervals. This leads to a combination of speed adjustment and gait change that enables optimal crawling for predefined limits of actuator or spike forces.
Production Potential and Soil Fertility Status of Ratoon Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) as Influenced by Time and Level of Earthing Up and Nitrogen Levels in North-Eastern Uttar Pradesh, India
Authors: Dev C. M. , Singh R. K. , Meena R. N. , Kumar Ashok , Singh Kanchan
Published: November 2012

A field experiment was carried out during the spring seasons of 2008-09 and 2009-10 at Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh to find out exact time of earthing up with level of earthing up and optimum doses of nitrogen for getting higher productivity, monetary returns, and changes in the fertility status of soils after harvest of ratoon sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.). Twentieth fifth April earthed crop produced significantly more height of tillers, leaf area index at maximum tillering stage, grand growth stage and at harvest, dry matter/tiller at maximum tillering stage at grand growth stage and at harvest, cane length, cane diameter of top, middle and bottom, weight of cane, cane yield, monetary returns, B/C ratio, N, P and K uptake except number of tillers/ha, number of millable cane/ha and net available soil nutrient after the harvest of ratoon crops as compared to 25th May and 25th June respectively. Twentieth cm height of earthing up from the ridge also significantly increased all the above parameters such as height of tillers, LAI of maximum tillering stage, grand growth stage and harvest, dry matter/tiller at maximum tillering stage, grand growth stage and at harvest, cane length, weight of cane and cane yield than that of 10 cm earthed crop in both the ratoon crops. Application of 210 kg N/ha linearly and significantly increased number of tillers/ha at 60 and 120 days after ratooning, height of tillers at 120 days after ratooning, LAI at maximum tillering stage, grand growth stage, and at harvest, dry matter/tiller at maximum tillering stage, grand growth stage and at harvest, number of millable cane, cane length, cane weight, cane yield, monetary returns, B/C ratio and N, P, K uptake followed by 180 kg N/ha. Ratoon crop showed that there was a build up of nitrogen and phosphorous but depletion in potassium content of the soil. 210 kg N/ha with earlier earthed at 25th April to a level of 20 cm was found optimum for obtaining higher yields and monetary returns.
De Québec à San Francisco
Authors: Gallichan Gilles
Published: November 2012

N.-E. Dionne (1848-1917), médecin, ancien journaliste et Bibliothécaire de la Législature retraité depuis quelques années, se rend à San Francisco en 1915 pour le compte du Quebec Daily Telegraph. Il visite alors l’Exposition internationale Panama-Pacifique qui marque l’ouverture du canal de Panama et la reconstruction de la ville après le terrible tremblement de terre de 1906. Cette traversée de l’Amérique et la vision de ses villes attrayantes en pleine croissance économique représentent pour Dionne une découverte de la modernité du XXe siècle.
Le maurrassisme au Canada français
Authors: Trépanier Pierre
Published: November 2012

C’est par manque de contextualisation et faute d’avoir fait les distinctions nécessaires qu’on a tantôt exagéré, tantôt sous-estimé le rayonnement de Charles Maurras (1868-1952) et de son école au Canada français. L’influence de l’Église catholique, la culture politique franco-britannique ainsi que les exigences de l'histoire et du milieu n’autorisaient tout au plus dans la vallée du Saint-Laurent, qu'un accueil critique. Si le traditionalisme québécois, même sous sa forme groulxiste, ne peut attribuer ni sa naissance, ni son essor au maurrasssisme, il lui doit en revanche une plus claire conscience de lui-même.
Les relations culturelles Québec-Acadie
Authors: Harvey Fernand
Published: November 2012

L’Acadie et le Québec possèdent une histoire, une culture et des traditions distinctes tout en formant la base même de la francophonie américaine. Les relations culturelles entre les Québécois et les Acadiens ont évolué considérablement depuis les origines. Particulièrement depuis 1960, les deux peuples ont appris à se connaître mutuellement grâce au développement d'un réseau de relations culturelles soit dans la chanson, le théâtre, la littérature ou la recherche universitaire. Ce survol des relations Acadie-Québec fait le point sur une délicate mécanique qui s’est réinventée depuis l’éclatement de la vision traditionnelle du Canada français.
Un héros sans visage : Champlain et l’archéologie
Authors: Moussette Marcel
Published: November 2012

Malgré de nombreux écrits et une documentation abondante sur le personnage, Samuel de Champlain demeure une figure énigmatique de notre histoire. Ainsi, aucun portrait authentique du fondateur de Québec ne nous est parvenu et l’emplacement de son tombeau a fait l’objet d’une longue saga archéologique. Si le tombeau demeure un mystère, l’archéologie a effectivement relevé des traces du passage de Champlain en Acadie, à l’île des Sainte-Croix et à Port-Royal et en Nouvelle France, autour de l’Habitation de Québec et de la ferme du Cap-Tourmente. Ses fouilles dont le potentiel documentaire est immense nous révèlent non seulement des informations sur Champlain et sur les établissements qu’il a fondés, mais aussi sur la vie quotidienne des premiers habitants du pays.
Considérations sur la noblesse canadienne
Authors: Le Moine Roger
Published: November 2012

L’article traite de l’aspect juridique de la noblesse coloniale canadienne en Nouvelle-France. À partir du XVIe siècle, la noblesse en France n’est plus liée à la possession de terres. En Nouvelle-France, les anoblis sont seigneurs, mais sans qu’il y ait en lien entre les états. Les motifs qui poussent le roi à anoblir relèvent du mérite, du développement des terres, de l’économie, de l’expansion territoriale et du service militaire. L’article aborde aussi les questions de la transmission des titres, de la dérogeance et des privilèges, ainsi que de la condition économique des la classe noble, son attitude après 1760 et son destin en Amérique.
Clergé, bourgeoisie et lecture publique
Authors: Galarneau Claude
Published: November 2012

Alexandre Vattemare et Mgr de Forbin-Janson arrivent au Québec en 1840. Leur présence active remue les populations. Mais l’échec du projet culturel du premier et le succès foudroyant de la prédication du second donnent au clergé l’occasion de fonder des bibliothèques paroissiales sur le modèle français.
Un projet d'enquête sur la jeunesse universitaire (1913)
Authors: Trépanier Pierre
Published: November 2012

Bien des observateurs jugent déplorable la situation de la jeunesse universitaire canadienne-française à la veille de la Première Guerre mondiale. Ils l'imputent prioritairement aux lacunes de l'institution universitaire et du collège classique. Lionel Groulx a lancé une enquête, qui a malheureusement tourné court, sur cette question qui le préoccupait. Ainsi se trouvait prolongé son apostolat auprès des collégiens: après le collège, l'université. Ses informateurs brossent un portrait impressionniste de la jeunesse étudiante des universités de Québec et de Montréal. Leur jugement, généralement sévère, attend d'être validé par la recherche.
Canadiens français quoique protestants
Authors: Simard Jean
Published: November 2012

Dans la mouvance de l’intérêt nouveau suscité par l’histoire longtemps refoulée des protestants francophones du Québec, on veut montrer de quelle manière deux communautés, fondées dans la première moitié du XXe siècle, ont eu à négocier différemment leur place au soleil de l’identité. Dans les deux cas un groupe de catholiques passe au protestantisme parce qu’il s’oppose au lieu choisi par le curé et l’évêque pour construire la nouvelle église. À Saint-Damase-de-L’Islet, sur la Côte-du-Sud, la naissance de la communauté se fait sans heurt majeur apparent tandis qu’à Girardville, dans le Lac-Saint-Jean, la rupture conduit à l’affrontement «musclé».
STI screening in people living with HIV: are we getting the whole story?
Authors: Perez K , Bassett D , Schembri G , Lee V
Published: November 2012

People living with HIV are able to enjoy meaningful sexual relationships; there remains however the key responsibility of reducing transmission to others and within this the prevention and management of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). In 2008 and 2011 BHIVA published guidance on STI testing recommending annual STI screening in asymptomatic patients with consideration of more frequent screening dependent on risk. We conducted a retrospective case note review of 385 HIV‐positive patients presenting for routine HIV care in a large city teaching hospital HIV clinic during 2010. Data included demographics, HIV parameters, sexual history and STI screening were collected. 297 (77%) were male, 215 (56%) white British, 105 (27%) black African. 229 (56%) were MSM. Median age was 37 years (range 17–75) and the median year of diagnosis was 2005 (range 1998–2010). Median CD4 count was 467 cells/mm3 (range 1–1849) and undetectable viral load in 248 (64%). 296 (77%) were on HAART. 18 were co‐infected with HBV and 17 with HCV. 249 (65%) patients had at least one STI screen. 56 (15%) declined testing and 77 (20%) were not offered. 238 (62%) had regular partner(s) and of these 109 (46%) were known HIV‐positive and 128 (32%) reported casual partners. 11 (3%) had sex exclusively with HIV‐positive partners. 91 (69%) always used condoms for vaginal sex. With regards to anal sex, 16 (68%) always used condoms. 11% used condoms for oral sex. 25 patients (6.5%) had rectal chlamydia, 27 (7.0%) had rectal gonorrhoea, 8 had dual infection and 3 had LGV. 10 HSV, 12 syphilis and 6 acute HCV infections were diagnosed during this period. 172 patients reported monogamous relationship over 12 months 11 (6.4%) of these had STIs. 160 reported consistent condom use for anal sex; of these 24 (15%) had rectal STIs diagnosed. Routine STI screening is offered annually in our cohort with reasonable uptake rates. STIs are still being diagnosed in people living with HIV despite our repeated safe sex messages and self‐reported condom use. In our cohort this was almost exclusively in MSM. Sexual history and safe sex education should be included at each visit. STI screening should be offered annually even in those reporting monogamous relationships and more frequently dependent on sexual history.
High KSHV prevalence among HIV‐infected males in North India
Authors: Munawwar A , Sharma S , Gupta S , Singh S
Published: November 2012

Background

Kaposi sarcoma is the most common cancer associated with AIDS worldwide. HIV is endemic in India but there are no studies on this co‐infection from India. Our present study examined the seroprevalence of HHV8 infections in adult Indian males infected with HIV.

Methods

The study was carried out at AIIMS, a tertiary care hospital in Delhi, India. We enrolled 93 HIV‐positive males naïve of ART. We employed whole virus enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay [ELISA; Advanced Biotechnologies Inc, Columbia, MD, USA]. A univariate analysis including age, marital status, mode of HIV transmission and CD4 count were used to determine variables associated with HHV8 seropositivity. Significant variables were adjusted in a logistic regression model expressed in odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI). P<0.05 was considered significant.

Results

The seroprevalence of KSHV infection was 33.3% in HIV‐1 infected males. HHV8 seropositivity in HIV‐infected males. Age was independently associated with the age group>25 years [OR=9.5; 95% CI=1.98–45.75.

Conclusion

Taken together, our findings showed high rates of KSHV antibody prevalence in the male cohort of suggesting that KSHV infection may be markedly associated with HIV‐1 infection in India especially in the heterosexual group. However, a further KSHV seroepidemiological survey; including a representative number of Indian cohorts of HIV‐1‐infected outpatients, is needed to further confirm our present findings.
Analysis of the evolution of direct costs of antiretroviral delivery in Argentina
Authors: Bissio E , Balleri C , Falistocco C
Published: November 2012

Background

In Argentina, antiretroviral treatment (ART) is covered by the State for all the persons who do not have health insurances, who represent 70% of all HIV infected patients in the country. Since 1992, the Direction of Aids (Ministry of Health) buys and delivers ART, treatments for opportunistic infections and reagents to diagnose and follow‐up HIV infection. Nevertheless, until now, an analysis of the evolution of the costs of the drugs acquired by the Direction of Aids has not been performed. The aim of this study was to analyze the direct costs of ART for the Direction of Aids in Argentina since 2006, and evaluate progression over time.

Methods

The expenditure on ART and drugs for opportunistic infections was obtained. All values (in pesos) were converted to dollars. The cost of ART per patient per year was calculated. Changes in cost were determined for the total and per patient expenditures, and the reasons for the changes analyzed.

Results

Total expenditure for ART (in uS dollars) went from 33.7 million in 2006 to 75 million in 2011 (123% increase). The number of patients on ART covered by the Aids Direction increased from 23228 in 2006 to 33279 (43%) by the end of 2011. The cost (u$s) of ART per person per year was: *06*: 1449; *07*: 1645; *08*: 1516; *09*: 1543; *10*: 1968; *11*: 2255. This represents a 56% increase from 2006 to 2011, though this change was uneven through the years. This was driven mainly by a decrease from 07 to 08, due to lack of acquisition of ART for political reasons; and a very steep increase in 09‐10 due to incorporation of more expensive drugs such as tenofovir/emtricitabine, raltegravir and maraviroc.

Conclusions

Annual cost of ART per person in Argentina has been increasing considerably in the last years. Even though this cost is much lower than those informed by some European countries (Italy: u$ 7500[1]; UK: u$ 9000[2], Germany: u$ 18000); it is one of the highest in Latin‐America, where median cost is u$1200 (range: 200–3300). According to PAHO, the delivered ART in Argentina should cost u$ 1200 per person per year, or less. In view of the policy for treatment expansion (new Ministry of Health guidelines recommend ART with CD4≤500/mm3), it is important to seek ways of lowering the cost of ART. Some of the strategies might be the incorporation of generics (Argentina has a young patents law, barriers to generic use seem not to be very strong but this might change in the future) and buying via strategic funds.
High seroprevalence of human herpes virus 8 (HHV‐8) antibodies among vertically HIV‐infected pediatric patients living in Germany
Authors: Feiterna‐Sperling C , Königs C , Notheis G , Buchholz B , Weizsaecker K , Eberle J , Hofmann J
Published: November 2012

Background

Human herpes virus 8 (HHV‐8), a gamma herpes virus, is the etiological agent for Kaposi sarcoma (KS). HIV‐infected adults with advanced immunodeficiency are at risk. Prevalence data of HHV‐8 infection in HIV‐infected children living in non‐endemic areas are limited. Serologic studies indicate low seroprevalence rates of 3–4% for healthy children living in United States and Germany [1].

Purpose of the study

The aim of the study was to determine the seroprevalence of HHV‐8 antibodies among vertically HIV‐infected pediatric patients in Germany and to evaluate their association with age, gender, ethnicity, and other demographic factors.

Methods

In 2012, a multi‐center cross‐sectional study was conducted in four University Hospitals in Germany. Stored frozen serum specimens obtained from vertically HIV‐infected children and adolescents were tested for antibodies against lytic and latent HHV‐8 antigens. Data on patients' demographic characteristics and medical history were recorded.

Results

A total of 214 HIV‐infected children and adolescents (105 males, 109 females) were included. The median age was 10.2 years (range 1 months–22.6 years). A high proportion of these children (62%) was born in Western Europe, whereas 65% (139/214) of their mothers were born in countries outside Western Europe. The majoritiy (91%) of the children had been treated with highly active antiretroviral therapy and 55.2% (116/210) had a HIV‐viral load<50 copies/mL. The median CD4 cell count was 1000/L (range 3–4400). The overall seroprevalence of HHV‐8 antibodies was 23.8% (51/214). Seroprevalence rates did not show significant differences between age or gender. In the group of young children aged 1 month to 35 months, 19.4% (46/31) had HHV‐8 antibodies, compared to 25% (25/100) in children aged 36 months to 11 years, and 24.1% (20/83) children 12 years and older. In the study group, seroprevalence rates were significantly lower in children who were born in Western Europe (p <0.01) compared to those born in Africa, Asia, or Eastern Europe. Clinical symptoms of HHV‐8 infection were reported to be uncommon; only one child had a history of KS at 2 years of age.

Conclusions

Vertically HIV‐infected pediatric patients living in Germany showed a high HHV‐8 seroprevalence of 23.8%. These rates were higher as expected in the normal pediatric population. The findings suggest that HHV‐8 infection occurred already in the first years of life.
Changing spectrum of clinical presentation in visceral leishmania in HIV+patients: preliminary results from a clinical registry in Northern Italy
Authors: Cenderello G , Pasa A , Dusi A , Dentone C , Izzo M , Toscanini F , Del Bono V , De Maria A
Published: November 2012

Purpose

Visceral leishmania (VL) and HIV were related since the beginning of AIDS era but the impact of HAART has completely changed the pattern. Aim of the study is to describe the current presentation of this opportunistic infection.

Methods

Demographics, clinical, laboratory and therapeutic findings were recorded in patients (pts) enrolled in the Ligurian registry for VL from January 1st 2007 to December 31st 2010. From these data we obtained the HIV+features. Statistical analysis was performed using: STATA 11.0 and SPSS software 13. Statistical significance was defined as a P value<0.05.

Summary of results

A total of 65 episodes in 55 pts (36 adult) were accumulated: median age 48.7 years (yrs) in adults (37.5 months in pediatric pts). All children were immunocompetent (ICC), adults included both ICC (17) and immunosuppressed (19) (ISS) pts. HIV was the leading cause of immunosuppression (10–59%) all pts. belonged to CDC stage C and they sustained 15 cases of infection; 4 were not on HAART and 4 on a failing regimen. Mean age in HIV +pts was 38 yrs, average CD4+count and HIV RNA at first diagnosis were respectively 135/l±101 and 6,974×104 cp/ml (0–2.8×105). No significant CD4 r differences at first diagnosis were present among who would not recur compared to those for whom a VL recurrence was observed. Main clinical presentations were: Fever (F)+hepatosplenomegaly 8, F+lymphoadenoathy 2, F+pancytopenia 2, thrombocytopenia 2, other 1. Detection of urinary antigen and serology (IFAT) were the most frequently used diagnostic tools (respectively in 14/15 and 11/15 pts). Bone marrow detection of intracellular parasites (Giemsa) was performed only in 4/15 cases. Liposomal amphotericin B was the most frequently (98.2% of cases) prescribed drug with 100% clinical cure. VL relapses (n°5) represented a crucial finding: they occurred in 3 pts and time to relapse presented a significant difference among ICC and ISS; CD4+cell numbers at VL recurrence were not different compared to those for the pts at baseline. Three deaths were reported, accounting for significant (15.8%) mortality.

Conclusions

The main findings can be summarized as follows: clinical presentation among HIV pts is heterogeneous with frequent recurrence and remarkable mortality. Moreover, the use of both serology and urinary antigens detection for diagnostic purposes allows a reliable performance and could be very useful in pts not eligible for bone marrow aspiration.
Ménage à trois: increased prevalence of syphilis infection in HIV‐positive MSM with acute hepatitis C
Authors: Krznaric I , Ingiliz P , Wienbreyer A , Baumgarten A , Carganico A , Dupke S , Ehret R , Obermeier M
Published: November 2012

In recent years, an increase in acute hepatitis C (HCV) infection has been observed in human immuno‐deficiency virus (HIV)‐positive men who have sex with men (MSM). Since sexual transmission of hepatitis C does not play as significant a role in other populations, there is much speculation surrounding its transmission in HIV‐infected MSM. While injection‐drug use appears to play only a minor role, other drug use and specific sexual practices are frequently reported. The purpose of this observational study was to investigate for a correlation with other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Data on 133 HIV‐positive MSM with documented acute HCV infection were included in the analysis. We investigated for new or recurrent infections with Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhea (direct detection of the pathogen) and Treponema pallidum (serological examination) within a time frame of 24 weeks prior to or after the acute HCV infection. The control group consisted of 1034 HIV‐positive MSM without HCV infection with a follow‐up of one year. HIV‐infected MSM with acute HCV had a higher rate of syphilis infection when compared to HIV‐positive HCV‐negative controls (73% vs. 43%). 31% of patients in the HCV group acquired a new (seroconversion) or recurrent syphilis infection (significant titre increase using the Treponema pallidum particle agglutination test=TPPA) compared to 12% of controls (p<0.05). Further, 12 cases of Neisseria gonorrhea and 6 cases of Chlamydia trachomatis infection were observed in the HCV group. Due to the lack of routine screening for these infections in the control group, a comparison could not be made. Conclusions: We report a higher prevalence of other sexually transmitted diseases in HIV‐infected MSM within 24 weeks before or after acute HCV infection. This observation however does not prove a pathophysiological connection between acute hepatitis C and other STDs. The high frequency of syphilis infections primarily affecting the ano‐genital region suggests a possible correlation.
Why don't we treat chronic hepatitis C in HIV patients? Results from a cohort of HIV‐HCV coinfected patients from the southeast of Spain
Authors: Smilg Nicolás C , Moreno Hernández A , Vera Méndez F , Alcaraz Vidal B , Alcalde Encinas M , Jimeno Almazán A , Martínez Madrid O , Trujillo Santos J , Tornel Sánchez G , Vega Cervantes J , Mozo Cuadrado M , Belmonte Martínez L
Published: November 2012

Purpose of the study

To know the different reasons why we decide not to treat or to delay the antiviral treatment against HCV in HIV coinfected patients.

Methods

Prospective cohort of HIV and HCV coinfected patients, followed in the Infectious Diseases Department of the Santa Lucia Universitary Hospital (Cartagena, Spain) between 1/12/2011 and 28/02/2012 in which we made transitory elastography. We evaluated the main reasons that moved us to decide not to treat or to delay the antiviral treatment against HCV: social‐familiar‐laboral reasons; neuro‐psychiatric severe diseases; patient decision; low grade hepatic fibrosis; previous failure to pegylated interferon (IFN) and ribavirin (RBV) in no‐1 genotype patients; delay in the approval of the triple therapy with INF‐RBV and a protease inhibitor (boceprevir or telaprevir) by the Regional Sanitary Authority; active alcohol abuse; active diseases that contraindicate the antiviral treatment, incomplete study of HCV (VL of HCV, genotype, ILB28, abdominal ecography); previous intolerance against IFN‐RBV and severe thrombocytopenia (<50×109/L).

Summary of results

The cohort included 109 patients, being 27 of them females (25%) and 82 males (75%), with a median of age of 45.8 years (SD: 6.2). In 98 patients (90%) we decided not to treat or to delay the antiviral treatment against HCV for one or more of the following reasons: 37 (34%) presented low grade hepatic fibrosis (<9.5 kpascal or F0‐F2); 19 (17%) had neuro‐psychiatric diseases; 18 (16.5%) were waiting for the approval of triple therapy by the Regional Sanitary Authority; 10 (9.2%) did not want to be treated; 10 (9.2%) had failure to IFN‐RBV in no‐1 genotype; 6 (5.5%) had social‐familiar‐laboral reasons; 6 (5.5%) presented active severe diseases; 4 (3.7%) were waiting to complete HCV study; 3 (2.8%) presented active alcohol abuse; 3 (2.8%) had previous intolerance against IFN‐RBV treatment and 2 (2%) had severe thrombocytopenia.

Conclusions

In our cohort of HIV‐HCV coinfected patients it was decided to delay or not to treat chronic hepatitis C in a significant proportion of subjects. The low grade of hepatic fibrosis measured with transitory elastography was the main reason for delaying the HCV antiviral treatment. The neuro‐psychiatric disease was the main clinical reason to not treat HCV. The delay of the approval of triple therapy treatment by the Regional Sanitary Authority was the most relevant non‐ clinical reason in our prospective study.
Initiation of an anal cancer screening in HIV+MSM: results of cytology, biopsy and determination of risk factors
Authors: Libois A , Feoli F , Nkuize M , Delforge M , De Wit S , Clumeck N
Published: November 2012

Incidence of anal cancer is increasing and risk of anal cancer is higher in MSM, especially if they are HIV+. European guidelines for treatment of HIV‐infected adults recommend anal cancer screening by digital rectal exam±Pap test with anuscopy if Pap test is abnormal. A systematic anal cancer screening in HIV+MSM with anal cytology (Pap smears) was established in June 2011 in our reference centre in Brussels. If anal cytology was abnormal, high‐resolution anuscopy (HRA) with biopsy was performed. 353 MSM HIV+were screened by anal smears between June 2011 and May 2012. 90% were Caucasians, median age was 44.5 years, 83% were on HAART and 74% had an undetectable viral load, median CD4 was 632/µl and 33% had a nadir CD4<200. Thirty‐three (9.3%) were excluded because of poor quality. Cytology was abnormal in 46% of the 320 remaining patients: high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) 3%, low‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) 24%, atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASC‐US) 16%, and atypical squamous cells / cannot rule out a high‐grade lesion (ASC‐H) 3%. Viral load (VL) was more frequently undetectable (82% vs 64%, p=0.0003) and median duration of HAART was longer (111 vs 61 months, p=0.0145) in patients with normal cytology. 80 HRA with biopsies have been performed. 12.5% were normal, 44% showed anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN) 1, 24% AIN 2 and 19% AIN 3. For this analysis, high‐grade AIN (2 and 3) were put together (AIN 2+). Among patients with AIN 2+(n=33), cytology had showed 8 (24%) ASC‐US, 3 (9%) ASC‐H, 19 (57%) LSIL, 3 (9%) HSIL. When patients with normal cytology or normal biopsy and patients with AIN 2+were compared, the only significant risk factor found for AIN 2+was a nadir CD4<100/µl (32% of the patients with AIN 2+vs 14% in patients with normal smear, p=0.0073). Anal precancerous lesions are frequent and at different stages. Among 46% abnormal cytology, 87% had abnormal biopsy including half AIN 2+.Cytology±biopsy is the only way to detect those lesions and should be performed systematically in HIV+MSM. Risk factor for AIN2+was a nadir CD4<100/µl. A normal cytology was associated with an undetectable VL and a longer duration of HAART. Those results provide further argument for early initiation of HAART.
Assessment of Intestinal Peristalsis in Vitro
Authors: Pozzoli Cristina , Poli Enzo
Published: November 2012

The protocol detailed in this unit is designed to assess intestinal peristaltic motility in the isolated small intestine in vitro and to measure the effects of drugs able to interfere with gut propulsive activity. The procedure is based on Trendelenburg's classic technique, described at the beginning of the 20th century in the isolated guinea pig ileum and, later on, extended to other intestinal preparations from the same animal and other animal species. This unit illustrates the basic procedures for setting up the intestinal preparation, recording peristalsis under near‐physiologic conditions, and testing the pharmaco‐toxicological effects of drugs and pollutants on the contractile behavior of the gut wall. The protocol allows evaluating the action of drugs affecting sensory and/or motor neurons of the enteric nervous system and how these neurons control the development of the motor program of the gut wall. This model can be exploited to investigate novel compounds undergoing preclinical development and both inhibitors and stimulants of gastrointestinal peristaltic activity, as well as environmental or alimentary pollutants, like xenobiotics and naturally‐occurring toxins, endowed with noxious activity with regard to digestive functions. Curr. Protoc. Toxicol. 54:21.11.1‐21.11.14. © 2012 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
New and Emerging Technologies in Structural Health Monitoring
Authors: Enckell Merit , Egede Andersen Jacob , Glisic Branko , Silfwerbrand Johan
Published: November 2012

Measuring and testing activities have been performed from the beginning of the twentieth century within engineering. Early activities in structural health monitoring were damage identification in aerospace and mechanical engineering. Aircrafts and military vehicles needed monitoring, and a lot of sensors were developed for these purposes. It was also common to perform damage identification with rotating machines, which was called condition monitoring. Organized structural health monitoring (SHM) activities became more acknowledged in the last decades and emerged various engineering disciplines. Today, also many civil engineering structures are monitored continuously and provide true real‐time information of these structures.

Technical development of sensory technology has been rapid and is still ongoing. Several new techniques are available on the market and provide higher performance and innovative, more reliable measurements.

Fiber‐optic sensors, advanced NDT methods such as acoustic emission, radar‐based techniques, in addition to micro electromechanical systems (MEMS) technology together with advanced data acquisition techniques and database automation supply for beneficial SHM. This paper presents new and emerging technologies and new areas of usage; mostly for the civil engineering structures. It highlights their advantages and also brings up with challenges. Some real applications are presented in order to give a true picture about SHM with new and emerging technologies and complexity of the subject.
Intending or Pretending? Automatic Evaluations of Goal Cues Discriminate True and False Intentions
Authors: Ask Karl , Granhag Pär Anders , Juhlin Fredrik , Vrij Aldert
Published: November 2012

This research presents a novel approach to discriminating between true and deceptive statements about intended future behavior. Arguing that true intentions are goal‐directed, we predict that people who genuinely intend to pursue a reported goal will implicitly evaluate goal‐relevant cues positively, whereas people who do not intend to pursue the goal will not. Participants in an experiment were instructed to tell the truth about a planned future behavior (true intention) or to falsely report that same behavior to mask their actual mock‐criminal intention (false intention). As predicted, an evaluative priming task showed that participants with true intention exhibited implicit positive evaluations of cues relevant to the reported goal, whereas participants with false intention did not. Subsequent analyses showed that implicit positivity significantly discriminated between true and false intentions. The findings are discussed in terms of theoretical contributions and implications for the development of future detection tools. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.