bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of the Bacterial Contamination and Remediation Efficacy After Flooding Using Fluorometric Detection
Authors: Reeslev Morten , Nielsen Jan Clair , Rogers Lisa
Published: August 2011

In the aftermath of flooding, rapid response assessment and cleanup is critical to recovery. In this study, the level of contamination of bacteria on surfaces in flooded houses was estimated and compared to the level found on surfaces in non-flooded houses with a rapid field test based on hydrolase enzyme activity present in bacteria and by measuring endotoxin. Sampling was performed by swabbing a 9 cm2 area using sterile cotton swabs wetted with a bacteriostatic buffer. A correlation between endotoxin levels and levels of hydrolase activity was seen (R2 = 0.6469, P < 0.0001). The median value and the variance ofthe result distribution were higher in flooded buildings as compared to non-flooded buildings. In the non-flooded buildings, surfaces were divided into visually clean and visually dirty. As expected the level of bacteria was higher on the visually dirty surfaces, and overall the hydrolase activity correlated well with the visual inspection. Using the results from the visually clean surfaces in the reference buildings as the criteria for clean, four methods of cleaning were tested for their ability to reach these criteria.
Understanding Crack Formation at the Metal/Oxide Interface During Corrosion of Zircaloy-4 Using a Simple Mechanical Model
Authors: Ly A. , Ambard A. , Blat-Yrieix M. , Legras L. , Frankel P. , Preuss M. , Curfs C. , Parry G. , Bréchet Y.
Published: August 2011

It has been established in previous works that corrosion kinetics in primary water of various zirconium alloys are periodic. Each period is associated with a layer of cracks parallel to the metal-oxide interface. These observations have been made either in autoclave or in pile. This indicates that corrosion processes in autoclave and under irradiation are of similar nature though their absolute kinetics might be different. Taking advantage of this correlation between cracks and corrosion kinetics, the present work aims at identifying the main microstructural parameters controlling cracks appearance in the oxide layer under well-controlled conditions. In order to achieve this, Zircaloy-4 was heat-treated to obtain various metallurgical states (stress-relieved versus recrystallised with different grain sizes) followed by corrosion tests in primary water. The key metallurgical parameters for the various conditions have been analysed (texture, precipitate sizes and grain sizes and distributions) using electron microscopy and synchrotron X-ray diffraction techniques. Corrosion kinetics of the various Zircaloy-4 microstructures are distinct as expected from the literature. Crack morphology in the oxide layer has been analysed and quantified using a dual beam scanning electron microscope/focused ion beam. Crack layers are evident even at small scale of observation. Three dimensional (3D) images of the oxide structure are presented. Cracks observed in this way are typically penny-shaped with a radius of about 100 nm. Near the metal-oxide interface, they are mainly found at the top of metal protrusions in the oxide. The roughness of the metal-oxide interface was measured. It does not exhibit any periodicity. The residual stresses in the oxide layers were measured by high energy (44 keV) synchrotron X-ray diffraction in transmission mode. Large compressive stresses (∼−1 GPa), changing with the metallurgical state and through the oxide scale thickness, were measured. The residual stresses in the oxide layers were measured by high energy (44 keV) synchrotron X-ray diffraction in transmission mode. Large compressive stresses (∼−1 GPa), changing with the metallurgical state and through the oxide scale thickness, were measured. A model of the oxide breaking at the point of transition has been developed. It is based on mechanical considerations and the existence of compressive stress in the oxide layer.
Influence of Protective Coatings on Damage and Lifetime of Alloy 247 DS in Thermomechanical Fatigue and Bending Tests
Authors: Trunova Olena , Beck Tilmann , Singheiser Lorenz
Published: August 2011

The present work was focused on the damage mechanisms and lifetime of a directionally solidified, oxidation protection coated Ni-base superalloy under out-of-phase thermomechanical fatigue (OP TMF) loading. The main scope of the work was the analysis of crack formation and propagation in the coating depending on its fracture strain. Two coating systems applied by low pressure plasma spraying were investigated: (i) MCrAlY-coating and (ii) duplex-coating consisting of the same MCrAlY coating and a NiAl top coat. The fracture strains of the coatings were determined at T = 20°C up to 600°C by four-point bending with acoustic emission analysis. The MCrAlY-coating did not influence significantly the TMF lifetime of the superalloy, whereas duplex-coatings reduced it drastically. This correlates with the fracture strains of the coatings that are for the MCrAlY-coating distinctly higher and for the duplex coating lower than the mechanical strain range of the TMF tests. Thus, the damage process was controlled by propagation of cracks formed after few TMF cycles in the duplex coated material and by slower initiation and propagation of fatigue cracks in the MCrAlY coated alloy. Moreover, crack branching at the interface between coating and substrate alloy affects crack penetration into the substrate. In addition to measurement of TMF life, the early stages of crack initiation and propagation in the duplex coating were studied in more detail after TMF tests that were interrupted after defined cycle numbers as well as during in situ bending tests in the scanning electron microscope. Furthermore, the influence of pre-oxidation on crack propagation is discussed.
Single Ply Roofing: Introduction to a New Sustainability Standard for the Roofing Industry
Authors: Costello Mindy
Published: August 2011

This standard development began with a partnership between members of the roofing industry and NSF International to facilitate the thorough communication of information that is verifiable and accurate about the environmental and social impacts associated with the production and use of single ply roofing membranes. This industry among other product manufacturing industries is responding to the global pressures of sustainable practices. Attributes in this standard were developed to address this growing need. Key elements of the standard include product design, life cycle assessment considerations, minimization of chemicals of concern, product manufacturing, energy, water, waste, durability, corporate governance (social responsibility), and innovation. Sustainability related information may influence a manufacturer’s decisions about supply chain modifications, product content changes, manufacturing adjustments, performance improvements, end-of-life options, and corporate governance with the goal of producing more sustainable products. NSF International is an accredited standards developer with American National Standards Institute (ANSI). The consensus body for this standard, called a joint committee, is balanced among the following interest categories: industry, public health/regulatory, and user. Work has been ongoing since the first stakeholder meeting in May 2009. Various task groups and experts have been participating in meetings on a monthly basis. This paper will introduce the Single Ply Roofing Membrane Sustainability Standard (NSF 347) along with background on its development. Additionally, other standards that may be applicable to single ply roofing membranes, certification, and conformance will be reviewed including third party certification versus conformity assessment. The anticipated voluntary consensus based standard should be available late 2011.
Case Studies of Foamed Adhesive Failures of Low Sloped Roofing Rigid Insulation Board
Authors: Straup Slick David , Piteo Nicholas A. , Rutila Dean A.
Published: August 2011

In low sloped roofing systems, poorly adhered roofing assemblies are unable to resist significant wind loads and are likely to be further damaged or destroyed by wind events well below the design wind pressures for the assembly. The design and installation of rigid insulation boards are a critical parameter in the service life of this roofing assembly in that, if the insulation boards become detached, there is increased risk for complete roofing assembly failure. Foamed adhesive is a common alternative to traditional hot-mopped asphalt adhesive in contemporary roofing assemblies. The proper design and installation of insulation board roofing assemblies in foamed adhesive is paramount to the successful performance of these roofing assemblies. Some of the critical parameters that could influence foamed adhesive performance are: insulation board adhesive pattern defects; insulation board adhesive quantity; inadequate insulation board adhesive contact; and failure to maintain insulation board contact with the substrate until the insulation adhesive is sufficiently set. The present paper discusses these critical parameters through case studies that clearly demonstrate how these parameters can lead to the failure of roofing assemblies, and discusses the lessons to be learned from these insulation board adhesion failures.
Um método chamado Pinotti: sal medicamentoso, malária e saúde internacional (1952-1960)
Authors: Silva Renato da , Hochman Gilberto
Published: August 2011

Analisa a criação, a recepção e o abandono do método Pinotti de combate à malária: sal de cozinha misturado com cloroquina. Idealizado no início da década de 1950 pelo malariologista brasileiro Mario Pinotti como ação profilática e terapêutica contra a malária, foi testado durante a primeira metade daquela década e utilizado no Brasil entre 1959 e 1961, como parte da campanha de erradicação da malária coordenada pela Organização Mundial da Saúde. Conquistou reconhecimento no cenário internacional da saúde, sofreu críticas e foi testado em outros países até meados dos anos 1960. Argumentamos que, no Brasil, o abandono foi devido, sobretudo, ao ocaso político de seu criador, a partir de 1960.
Taking Learning to the Learner: Using Audio Teleconferencing for Postclinical Conferences and More
Authors: Adegbola Maxine
Published: August 2011

Clinical educators are often burdened by conflicts that occur as they try to balance multiple postclinical scheduling demands with students ‘varying timetables. The purpose of this article is to inform educators how to use teleconferences to deliver valuable postclinical debriefing, model professional growth experiences, and more. The innovative use of teleconferencing as a pedagogical method enables educators to take learning to the learners.
Designing the Invisible Architecture of Your Hospital
Authors: Tye Joe
Published: August 2011

Before building or remodeling a hospital, architects develop a complete set of blueprints. That same sort of detailed attention should be given to the “invisible architecture” of core values, corporate culture, and emotional attitude because this has a much greater impact on the patient and employee experience than do the bricks and mortar.
What Floats a Float Nurse's Boat?
Authors: Linzer Pamela , Tilley Ann Marie , Williamson Marlene V.
Published: August 2011

Few studies have examined the personality traits of nurses, and none identified the personality traits of float pool nurses. Float pool nurses have specific personality traits that differ from unit-based nurses. Independence, Tough-Mindedness, Rule Consciousness, Social Boldness, Openness to Change, and Tension were six personality factors that were found to be statistically significantly different. As hospitals implement float pools or resource teams to meet staffing needs, gleaning insight into the specific personality traits of these individuals could assist in nurse recruitment and retention.
Creating a Team that Thrives: An Annotated Conversation with Marlene Williamson, MSN, RN, NE-BC
Authors: Balik Barbara
Published: August 2011

How do successful leaders do that? In this interview with Marlene Williamson, director of In-patient Nursing Services at Winchester Hospital in Winchester, MA, she describes the leadership behaviors that created a float team that thrives, provides highly valued care, continually improves their individual performance, and usually has a waiting list of internal applicants. Barbara Balik's analysis of Marlene Williamson's comments are in indented paragraphs.
Compassionate Confrontation Psychotherapy: An Effective and Humanistic Alternative to Biological Psychiatry for Adolescents in Crisis
Authors: Bratter Thomas Edward
Published: August 2011

Compassionate confrontation psychotherapy (CCP) is effective for gifted students who act out in dangerous ways. In comparison to other group psychotherapy orientations, compassionate confrontation can initially appear radical and harsh, and needs to be used judiciously and within careful parameters. For a quarter of a century, The John Dewey Academy (JDA), a residential college preparatory therapeutic high school, has sent all (100%) of its graduates to colleges of quality. Most JDA students arrive having, at best, mediocre cumulative averages and often have several C’s, D’s, and F’s, which is the least serious self-destructive act but one that is impossible to hide from college admissions personnel. Ironically, if one is dishonest, it is easy to conceal addiction to potent psychotropic medications, alcoholism, institutionalizations, incarcerations, and abortions. Students are admitted based on potential and attitude, rather than academic performance or standardized testing (both of which conceal innate intellectual potential).
Reanalyzing a Randomized Controlled Trial of Combination Antidepressant Treatment With Mirtazapine: Confidence Intervals Suggest Substantial Uncertainty
Authors: Lacasse Jeffrey R.
Published: August 2011

This article subjects a randomized controlled trial (RCT) published in the American Journal of Psychiatry to a methodological and statistical critique, including a reanalysis of the effect size statistics presented. The published trial tested the use of combination antidepressants (mirtazapine coprescribed with either bupropion, venlafaxine, or fluoxetine) at treatment initiation as compared with fluoxetine monotherapy. The authors report that combination therapy was effective, with a number-needed-to-treat (NNT) statistic of 3–5, a strong effect size. Scrutiny of the methodology and clinical trial registration shows that 4 of 6 preregistered outcomes were statistically nonsignificant, 1 outcome was not reported, and 1 unregistered outcome was published. The well-critiqued Hamilton Depression Inventory was the only positive outcome measure. Calculating confidence intervals for the reported NNT demonstrates substantial uncertainty (95% CI for NNT = 2.3–18.0). In an era of evidence-based psychiatric practice, there is insufficient evidence to recommend combination therapy at initiation of treatment.
Intricacies, Complexities, and Limitations of Research on Autism Treatments: An Examination of Seven Treatment Approaches
Authors: Seitler Burton Norman
Published: August 2011

Part 1 of this article, published in Volume 12, Issue 2, probed factors associated with autism. Many of those factors had to do with how toxic substances are polluting our environment. Investigative chicanery involving one neurotoxic agent in particular (thimerosal) was uncovered. The controversy surrounding this neurotoxic agent was examined in some detail, and questions were raised whether information about the degree of toxicity of thimerosal was being minimized, distorted, or covered up by authorities and agencies in positions of influence. Other potentially harmful sources that might differentially contribute to what some might regard as an autism epidemic were listed and described as well.

In this section, science and scientific investigation are described, with particular reference to the complexities, intricacies, and difficulties inherent in conducting research on autistic children, and how these intricacies complicate drawing definitive conclusions about if, how, or why a treatment method did or did not work. In addition, seven treatment approaches to autism are listed, along with concise descriptions of these methods and a general rationale underpinning each method. Considerable attention is paid to applied behavior analysis (ABA) because most behavioral treatments derive from it. Commentary on other treatments is provided, such as psychoanalysis, special diets, and chelation. In particular, aftereffects associated with medication tactics are noted.
EMDR, Addictions, and the Stages of Change: A Road Map for Intervention
Authors: O’Brien John M. , Abel Nancy J.
Published: August 2011

A growing body of literature indicates that eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) can be useful in the treatment of addictions. When combined with traditional addictions treatment approaches, EMDR can enhance client stability, prevent relapse, and promote recovery. Clinical decision making about when and how to use EMDR techniques with clients who present with addictions is complicated. The purpose of this article is to explore the use of EMDR interventions with clients presenting various levels of awareness of their addiction as well as varied levels of motivation to change. The authors explore the Stages of Change and suggest appropriate pre-EMDR EMDR interventions at each stage.
EMDR in Dissociative Processes Within the Framework of Personality Disorders: The Impact of Cognitions in the EMDR Process: The “Dialogue Protocol”
Authors: Egli-Bernd Hanna
Published: August 2011

A theoretical analysis of the psychodynamic dimension of cognitions in the eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) protocol can be beneficial in addressing the specific issues affecting the choice of appropriate cognitions in working with clients with personality disorders. This group of patients share the biographic commonality of emotional-narcissistic abuse and neglect in childhood by primary attachment figures and significant others in their lives. Arising from these experiences, a subtle dissociation (in childhood) can cause the development of parts of self with an emotional and cognitive fixation on a self-image. This is defined by the child’s attachment figures and other significant people, and has subsequently been internalized by the child themselves. In such cases, the actual goal of treatment is not primarily the event on which the EMDR session is initially focused, but rather the complex emotional and cognitive significance that the event has on the client’s self-perception and self-evaluation.
The Recent-Traumatic Episode Protocol: Outcome Evaluation and Analysis of Three Case Studies
Authors: Tofani Laura Rocchietta , Wheeler Kate
Published: August 2011

This article evaluates and illustrates the application of the recent-traumatic episode protocol (R-TEP) with three diverse clients: a child with chronic illness, a woman with a significant loss, and an adolescent who self-harmed. The R-TEP is an adaptation of the Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) protocol for early EMDR intervention. Sessions are presented in detail to highlight the shifts in information processing that occur during treatment. Observed markers used to analyze the flow of processing are identified, which include distancing from the trauma; reduction in negative affect or change in reported emotions; accessing more adaptive information; changes in the Subjective Units of Disturbance scale; and the Validity of Cognition scale and Impact of Event Scale—Revised indicating shifts in perception of the traumatic memory. Pre-post R-TEP treatment gains were noted for all clients, with changes in behavior and functioning. Theoretical underpinnings of the R-TEP are discussed with respect to the reported observations. The specific contribution of the protocol is highlighted, considering its procedural components and related plausible mechanisms of change.
Effects of treatment on respiratory rate, serum natriuretic peptide concentration, and Doppler echocardiographic indices of left ventricular filling pressure in dogs with congestive heart failure secondary to degenerative mitral valve disease and dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Schober Karsten E. , Hart Taye M. , Stern Joshua A. , Li Xiaobai , Samii Valerie F. , Zekas Lisa J. , Scansen Brian A. , Bonagura John D.
Published: August 2011

Objective—To evaluate the effects of treatment on respiratory rate, serum natriuretic peptide concentrations, and Doppler echocardiographic indices of left ventricular filling pressure in dogs with congestive heart failure (CHF) secondary to degenerative mitral valve disease (MVD) and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).

Design—Prospective cohort study.

Animals—63 client-owned dogs.

Procedures—Physical examination, thoracic radiography, analysis of natriuretic peptide concentrations, and Doppler echocardiography were performed twice, at baseline (examination 1) and 5 to 14 days later (examination 2). Home monitoring of respiratory rate was performed by the owners between examinations.

Results—In dogs with MVD, resolution of CHF was associated with a decrease in respiratory rate, serum N-terminal probrain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) concentration, and diastolic functional class and an increase of the ratio of peak velocity of early diastolic transmitral flow to peak velocity of early diastolic lateral mitral annulus motion (E:Ea Lat). In dogs with DCM, resolution of CHF was associated with a decrease in respiratory rate and serum NT-proBNP concentration and significant changes in 7 Doppler echocardiographic variables, including a decrease of E:Ea Lat and the ratio of peak velocity of early diastolic transmitral flow to isovolumic relaxation time. Only respiratory rate predicted the presence of CHF at examination 2 with high accuracy.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Resolution of CHF was associated with predictable changes in respiratory rate, serum NT-proBNP concentration, and selected Doppler echocardiographic variables in dogs with DCM and MVD. Home monitoring of respiratory rate was simple and was the most useful in the assessment of successful treatment of CHF.
Ophthalmic lesions in neonatal foals evaluated for nonophthalmic disease at referral hospitals
Authors: Labelle Amber L. , Hamor Ralph E. , Townsend Wendy M. , Mitchell Mark A. , Zarfoss Mitzi K. , Breaux Carrie B. , Thomasy Sara M. , Hall Tiffany
Published: August 2011

Objective—To determine types and frequency of ophthalmic lesions detected in neonatal foals evaluated for nonophthalmic disease at 3 veterinary referral hospitals and to investigate associations between systemic and ophthalmic diseases in these foals.

Design—Prospective cross-sectional study.

Animals—70 foals < 30 days old.

Procedures—Complete ophthalmic examinations were performed. Signalment, clinical signs, mentation during ophthalmic examination, results of clinicopathologic tests, and diagnosis of systemic disease were recorded. Descriptive data analysis including a χ2 test for associations was performed.

Results—Most foals (39/70 [55.7%]) with systemic disease had ≥ 1 ophthalmic lesion detected. Of the 39 foals with ophthalmic disease, 24 (61.5%) had potentially vision-threatening lesions. Clinically important abnormalities included conjunctival hyperemia or episcleral injection (30/70 [42.9%]), uveitis (18/70 [25.7%]), ulcerative keratitis (13/70 [18.6%]), nonulcerative keratitis (10/70 [14.3%]), entropion (8/70 [11.4%]), retinal hemorrhage (8/70 [11.4%]), and cataract (6/70 [8.6%]). Foals with sepsis were significantly more likely to have uveitis than were those without sepsis. Foals with sepsis and uveitis were also significantly less likely to survive to discharge than were foals that had sepsis without uveitis. Acquired ophthalmic disease (detected in 37/70 [52.9%] foals) was significantly more common than congenital ophthalmic disease (detected in 9/70 [12.9%]).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Ophthalmic lesions were detected in 55.7% of neonatal foals with systemic disease. Acquired ophthalmic disease was more commonly detected than congenital ophthalmic disease. Foals with sepsis were more likely to have uveitis than were foals without sepsis. A complete ophthalmic examination is indicated in neonatal foals evaluated for systemic disease.
Risk factors for the elimination of endurance horses from competition
Authors: Fielding C. Langdon , Meier Chloe A. , Balch Olin K. , Kass Phillip H.
Published: August 2011

Objective—To identify risk factors such as signalment, previous competition miles completed, ride characteristics, and physical examination variables associated with the elimination of horses during endurance competitions.

Design—Retrospective observational study.

Sample—Veterinary records for 3,493 endurance horse competition starts.

Procedures—Records were requested of all sanctioned 2007 endurance horse competitions in the United States. Only rides that provided data from all horses were included. The horse's signalment, previous endurance competition record, specific ride characteristics, weight division (ie, based on rider's weight with tack), and physical examination variables throughout the ride were included for analysis. Examination variables were separated into abnormalities occurring prior to the start of the ride, during the first half of the ride, and during the second half of the ride. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify risk factors for overall elimination and elimination subcategories (lameness and metabolic).

Results—Specific breeds, the heavyweight division, and distance of the ride were all associated with an increased risk of elimination. A variety of examination variables prior to the start of the ride and during the ride were associated with elimination and included heart rate, cardiac recovery index, and abnormal gastrointestinal sounds.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that specific risk factors were associated with elimination of horses from endurance competitions. These factors may be used to help identify horses at higher risk for elimination and prevent morbidity associated with competition.
'We Are Now Reduced to Women': Impacts of Forced Disarmament in Karamoja, Uganda
Authors: Stites Elizabeth , Akabwai Darlington
Published: August 2011

This article provides background on the Government of Uganda's disarmament campaign in Karamoja. We discuss the recent history of and motivations for the disarmament campaign, and the experiences and perceptions of local communities as they adjust to a changing security and livelihoods environment. We focus on the emergence of protected kraals as an indicator of the impacts of disarmament on local lives and livelihoods, even while recognizing that the protected kraals are themselves in transition due to shifts in military priorities and practice. We look both at intended effects and unintended externalities caused by the disarmament campaign, including increased sedentarization and associated shifts away from pastoral production, shifts in gendered divisions of labour and responsibility within households, and the substantial infl ux of humanitarian assistance into the region. Lastly, we consider the alignment of donor and government priorities and policies over the next fi ve years, and the likely impacts for development and security.
'Someone Dies in Your Lap': Structural, Ecological and Political Effects on Child and Maternal Health Care Decisions, Moroto District, Uganda, 2004
Authors: Gray Sandra
Published: August 2011

In this paper I examine the impact of recent ecological and political events, and of structural inequalities, on child health and maternal utilization of biomedical services in Moroto District, Uganda. Data were collected in 2004 in two communities in Bokora and Mazeniko sub-counties, as part of a study of maternal strategies in a context of extreme environmental and social stress. Children suffered from a range of chronic and preventable illnesses, in particular, from gastrointestinal, malarial and febrile diseases. Parasitic infestations in the form of worms, scabies and sand fl eas were endemic. Children's exposure to infection was heightened by a poor public health infrastructure. Mothers sought a range of health interventions, including biomedical services, indigenous therapies and private drug shops and clinics, but defi ciencies both real and perceived in the formal health care sector discouraged them from relying exclusively on its services. Structural inequalities in health care contributed to high child morbidity in these communities. Maternal health interventions were further constrained in 2004 by the erosion of the agropastoralist system and resultant deepening poverty and food shortages. The launching of the government disarmament campaign compounded structural effects on maternal resources, children's health and women's access to health care.
Surface mass balance, thinning and iceberg production, Columbia Glacier, Alaska, 1948–2007
Authors: Rasmussen L.A. , Conway H. , Krimmel R.M. , Hock R.
Published: August 2011

A mass-balance model using upper-air meteorological data for input was calibrated with surface mass balance measured mainly during 1977–78 at 67 sites on Columbia Glacier, Alaska, between 135 and 2645 m a.s.l. Root-mean-square error, model vs measured, is 1.0 m w.e. a−1, withr2= 0.88. A remarkable result of the analysis was that both precipitation and the factor in the positive degree-day model used to estimate surface ablation were constant with altitude. The model was applied to reconstruct glacier-wide components of surface mass balance over 1948–2007. Surface ablation, 4 km3ice eq. a−1(ice equivalent), has changed little throughout the period. From 1948 until about 1981, when drastic retreat began, the surface mass balance was positive but changes in glacier geometry were small, so the positive balance was offset by calving, ∼0.9 km3ice eq. a−1. During retreat, volume loss of the glacier accounted for 92% of the iceberg production. Calving increased to ∼4.3 km3ice eq. a−1from 1982 to 1995, and after that until 2007 to ∼8.0 km3ice eq. a−1, which was about twice the loss by surface ablation, whereas prior to retreat it was only about a quarter as much. Calving is calculated as the difference between glacier-wide surface mass balance and geodetically determined volume change.
Incorporating arbitrary basal topography in the variational formulation of ice-sheet models
Authors: Dukowicz John K. , Price Stephen F. , Lipscomb William H.
Published: August 2011

There are many advantages to formulating an ice-sheet model in terms of a variational principle. In particular, this applies to the specification of boundary conditions, which might otherwise be problematic to implement. Here we focus primarily on the frictional basal sliding boundary condition in a non-Newtonian Stokes model. This type of boundary condition is particularly difficult because it is heterogeneous, requiring both a Dirichlet (no-penetration) condition normal to the bed, and a Neumann (frictional sliding) condition tangential to the bed. In general, Neumann conditions correspond to natural boundary conditions in a variational principle; that is, they arise naturally in the variational formulation and thus need not be explicitly specified. While the same is not necessarily true of Dirichlet conditions, it is possible to enforce a no-penetration condition using Lagrange multipliers within the variational principle so that the Dirichlet condition becomes a natural boundary condition. Thus, in the case of ice sheets, all relevant boundary conditions may be incorporated in the variational functional, making them particularly easy to discretize. For the Stokes model, the resulting basal boundary condition is valid for arbitrary topographic slopes. Here we apply the same methodology to the Blatter– Pattyn higher-order approximate model, which is ordinarily limited to small basal slopes by the smallaspect-ratio approximation. We introduce a modification that improves on the accuracy of the standard Blatter–Pattyn model for all values of the basal slope, as we demonstrate in the slow sliding regime for which analytical results are available. The remaining error is due to the effects of the small-aspect-ratio approximation in the Blatter–Pattyn model.
Interfacial and structural relaxations of snow under isothermal conditions
Authors: Löwe H. , Spiegel J.K. , Schneebeli M.
Published: August 2011

We investigated the morphological evolution of laboratory snow under isothermal conditions at −3,−9 and −19°C, using X-ray tomography. We employed a two-point density correlation function to measure spatial fluctuations of the density of the bicontinuous ice/vapor system at different length scales. Length scales were derived from the correlation function to distinguish between interfacial coarsening due to the minimization of surface energy on the smallest scales and anisotropic structural rearrangements due to gravity on larger scales. On the smallest scales our data suggest a crossover between T = −9 and −19°C from evaporation/condensation to surface diffusion as the dominant transport mechanism. Anomalous growth was found for the slope of the correlation function at the origin, and it was similar to those reported for the coarsening of fractal clusters. This is consistent with the observed persistence of dendritic structures throughout an entire year. The dynamics of large-scale morphology was characterized by the first zero-crossing of the correlation function which displays a nonmonotonic evolution with a pronounced anisotropy between the direction of gravity and horizontal directions. Since the correlation function naturally emerges in problems of scattering of radiation in snow, our results appear to be important for optical and remote-sensing methods.
Recent volume and area changes of Kaskawulsh Glacier, Yukon, Canada
Authors: Foy Norah , Copland Luke , Zdanowicz Christian , Demuth Mike , Hopkinson Chris
Published: August 2011

Recent surface elevation changes of Kaskawulsh Glacier, Yukon, Canada, are quantified by comparing an air-photo derived DEM from 1977 and airborne lidar measurements from 1995, 2000 and 2007. Surface-area changes are assessed using historical aerial photography from 1956 and satellite imagery from 1977 to 2007. Combined, these measurements provide some of the first detailed records of volume change of a large Yukon glacier. Between 1977 and 2007, Kaskawulsh Glacier underwent a decrease in area of 1.53% and a decrease in volume of 3.27–5.94 km3w.e.). The terminus also retreated by 655 m over the period 1956–2007. There was relatively minor volume change over the period 1977–95 (<+0.01 km3w.e.a−1), while over the periods 1995–2000 and 2000–07 volume losses occurred at a relatively constant rate of −0.51 and −0.50 km3a−1w.e., respectively. Since 1995, thinning has been prominent throughout the ablation zone, while relative stability and even slight thickening has occurred in the accumulation zone. These findings are similar to those recently observed at other nearby Alaskan glaciers.
Antarctic ice-shelf thickness from satellite radar altimetry
Authors: Griggs J.A. , Bamber J.L.
Published: August 2011

Ice-shelf thickness is an important boundary condition for ice-sheet and sub-ice-shelf cavity modelling. It is required near the grounding line to calculate the ice flux used to determine ice-sheet mass balance by comparison with the upstream accumulation. In this mass budget approach, the accuracy of the ice thickness is one of the limiting factors in the calculation. We present a satellite retrieval of the ice thickness for all Antarctic ice shelves using satellite radar altimeter data from the geodetic phases of the European Remote-sensing Satellite (ERS-1) during 1994–95 supplemented by ICESat data for regions south of the ERS-1 latitudinal limit. Surface elevations derived from these instruments are interpolated on to regular grids using kriging, and converted to ice thicknesses using a modelled firn-density correction. The availability of a new spatial variable firn-density correction significantly reduces the error in ice thickness as this was previously the dominant error source. Comparison to airborne data shows good agreement, particularly when compared to SOAR CASERTZ data on the largest ice shelves. Biases range from −13.0 m for areas where the assumption of hydrostatic equilibrium breaks down, to 53.4 m in regions where marine ice may be present.
Field investigation of near-surface metamorphism of snow
Authors: Slaughter A.E. , Adams E.E. , Staron P.J. , Shertzer R.H. , Walters D.J. , McCabe D. , Catherine D. , Henninger I. , Leonard T. , Cooperstein M. , Munter H.
Published: August 2011

Buried surface hoar and near-surface faceted crystals are known to lead to deadly avalanches. Over the course of three winter seasons a field investigation detailing the environmental conditions leading to the formation of these crystals was performed. Weather stations on north- and south-facing aspects were established. The weather data were accompanied by detailed daily observations and grain-scale photographs of the snow surface. During the three seasons, 35 surface hoar and 47 near-surface facets events were recorded. The mean weather conditions for the entire dataset (all three seasons and both stations) were compared to the nights when surface hoar formed. The comparison yielded five parameters that were statistically linked to the formation of surface hoar: incoming longwave radiation, snow surface temperature, wind velocity, relative humidity and the air/snow temperature difference. A similar comparison between the daytime mean values for all days with near-surface facet events revealed three parameters with statistically significant differences. Thus, these parameters (short- and longwave radiation and relative humidity) could be statistically linked to facet formation. This research also suggests that environmental conditions in the daytime hours before and after surface hoar formation are statistically similar to the conditions causing near-surface facet formation.
Localized uplift of Vatnajökull, Iceland: subglacial water accumulation deduced from InSAR and GPS observations
Authors: Magnússon Eyjólfur , Björnsson Helgi , Rott Helmut , Roberts Matthew J. , Pálsson Finnur , Guđmundsson Sverrir , Bennett Richard A. , Geirsson Halldór , Sturkell Erik
Published: August 2011

We report on satellite and ground-based observations that link glacier motion with subglacial hydrology beneath Skeiðarárjökull, an outlet glacier of Vatnajökull, Iceland. We have developed a technique that uses interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) data, from the European Remote-sensing Satellite (ERS-1/-2) tandem mission (1995–2000), to detect localized anomalies in vertical ice motion. Applying this technique we identify an area of the glacier where these anomalies are frequent: above the subglacial course of the river Skeiðará, where we observed uplift of 0.15–0.20 m d−1during a rainstorm and a jökulhlaup, and subsidence at a slower rate subsequent to rainstorms. A similar pattern of motion is apparent from continuous GPS measurements obtained at this location in 2006/07. We argue that transient uplift of the ice surface is caused by water accumulating at the glacier base upstream of an adverse bed slope where the overburden pressure decreases significantly over a short distance. Most of the frictional energy of the flowing water is therefore needed to maintain water temperature at the pressure-melting point. Hence, little energy is available to enlarge water channels sufficiently by melting to accommodate sudden influxes of water to the base. This causes water pressure to exceed the overburden pressure, enabling uplift to occur.
Gummatous ulcer of leg: an uncommon entity in present era
Authors: Goyal S , Singal KK , Singh B
Published: August 2011

Gummatous ulcer due to Treponematoses is quite rare in present era of potent antibiotics, increased social awareness and due to improvement in living standards of society .Better hygiene and improved medical care have contributed to containment of late benign syphilis or gummas. However, pockets of endemic treponematoses is still persisting in the underdeveloped, third world countries.Key words: Gummatous ulcer, treponematoses, antibiotics.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v10i3.7514BJMS 2011; 10(3): 209-210
Synthesis and in vitro antibacterial activity of Cephradine Benzoate
Authors: Ahmad M , Rahman M , Kumar Paul P
Published: August 2011

Aims & Methods: The present study was undertaken to compare the antibacterial activity of a cephradine derivative with that of the parent antibiotic cephradine. Cephradine was converted to its benzoyl derivative by Schotten-Baumann method for the first time. Disc diffusion method was employed to find out the antibacterial activity against EPEC, ETEC, E. Agg, Salmonella typhi, Salmonella group B, Shigella boydii, Shigella dysenteriae 1, Shigella dysenteriae 2, Shigella flexinariae and Shigella sonnei. Melting point, TLC, HPLC, UV, FTIR and 1H NMR studies were carried out to check the purity and confirm that the derivative was cephradine benzoate. Results: The benzoyl derivative showed promising activity against tested bacteria. The results obtained from the study demonstrate that the benzoyl derivative could be a potential antibacterial agent. Key words: Cephradine benzoate, antibacterial activity, disc diffusion method.   DOI: http://dx.doi.org/ 10.3329/bjms.v10i3.8356 BJMS 2011; 10(3): 148-151
C - reactive protein levels in women with pregnancy induced hypertension
Authors: Ghosh TK , Ghosh S , Bhattacharjee D
Published: August 2011

Objective: The main objective of this study is to determine the level of C- reactive protein in pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH) along its relation with normal pregnant mothers and also to compare it with different grades of pregnancy. C-reactive protein and inflammation are interrelated. Another objective of this study is to find out the relationship of C- reactive protein, biochemical and hematological parameter in PIH as well as its clinical correlation. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in the department of Gynaecology and department of Pathology in Burdwan Medical College West Bengal India after taking permission from ethical committee. 50 cases of PIH mothers and age and gestational matched 50 cases of normal control pregnant mothers and 50 normal healthy non pregnant adult women were included in this present study. CRP was estimated by turbidometric method. Serum Uric acid, SGPT, Serum Creatinine were estimated by semi auto analyzer, Serum ß HCG was estimated by ELISA technique. The total leukocytes count, absolute Neutrophils count, Platelet counts were done in hematological cell counter with correlation from peripheral direct smear and manual counting. Urine protein was detected by dipstick method. Results: Serum C- reactive protein was positively correlated with severity of in PIH. Results shows a significantly increased C-reactive protein in PIH (Mean SD 42.02 mg/L±18 .01 mg/L, P<0.001) in comparison to normal control mother (Mean SD 4.2 ±0.93 mg/L). Conclusion: Serum C-reactive protein levels can be used as marker for early diagnosis and intervention of PIH and can be reduced maternal as well as fetal morbidity and mortality. Key words: C - reactive protein, pregnancy induced hypertension. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/ 10.3329/bjms.v10i3.8358 BJMS 2011; 10(3): 159-162
Diagnostic value of transabdominal hydrosonography in gastric carcinoma
Authors: Rabbi AF , Sarker RN , Hossain A
Published: August 2011

Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of transabdominal hydrosonography in the diagnosis of gastric carcinoma. Materials and Methods: Transabdominal hydrosonography of the stomach was carried out on fifty patients with clinical suspicion of gastric carcinoma. Endoscopic or peroperative biopsy was taken from pathological sites in all cases. The validity of transabdominal hydrosonography of the stomach was evaluated as compared to histopathological diagnoses. Results: The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of transabdominal hydrosonography in the diagnosis of gastric carcinoma were 81.82%, 96.43%, 90.00%, 94.74% & 87.10% respectively. Conclusion: Transabdominal hydrosonography is a useful diagnostic modality for the diagnosis of gastric carcinoma. Key words: Gastric carcinoma, transabdominal hydrosonography. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/ 10.3329/bjms.v10i3.8360 BJMS 2011; 10(3): 170-176
Effect of prepregnancy body mass index and gestational weight gain on obstetric and neonatal outcomes  A pilot study
Authors: Nazlima N , Fatema B
Published: August 2011

Objectives: The study was undertaken to explore the effects of prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) and excess weight gain on maternal and neonatal outcomes different maternal and neonatal outcomes. Methods: Obstetrics records of 496 singleton pregnant women delivered between 2007 and 2009 in IBN SINA Medical College Hospital were reviewed. On the basis of BMI on their first visit the patients were divided into 3 groups; Mat BMI Gr 1, normal (BMI 20–24.9 Kg/m2, n=366), Mat BMI Gr 2, overweight (BMI 25-29.9 Kg/m2, n=102), Mat BMI Gr 3, obese (BMI >30 Kg/m2, n=28). On the basis of gestational weight gain, the subject divided into 2 categories, Gets WtGain Gr A, gestational weight gain 8–15.9 Kg (n=315), Gest WtGain Gr B, gestational weight gain >16 Kg weight gain (n=181). Data were expressed as number (percentage). Proportion test was performed for comparison between two groups. P value <0.05 was taken as level of significance. Results: of the total 496 pregnant women 74.59% were between 19-34 years of age. Among all the women 64.11% had high school education of different grade. Of all the pregnancies 23.18% were nulliparous. Of the total 496 women 366 (79.79%) were normal weight, 102 (20.56%) overweight and 28 (5.64%) obese. Obese women group had significantly higher proportion of hypertensive cases compared to the normal weight (p<0.001) and overweight (p<0.01) group. Relatively higher proportion of macrosomia, birth trauma, shoulder dystocia and NICU admission among babies of obese women (p=ns). One hundred and eighty one (36.49%) of study subjects had gestational weight gain above the cut-off (>16 kg) value (p<0.001). Women with weight gain bout the cut-off level had relatively higher proportion of macrosomic babies (p=ns). Conclusions: The data reconfirmed that obesity is associated with hypertension. Significant proportion of women had weight gain more than cut-off value which needs to be addressed to ensure sound maternal and fetal wellbeing. However, a multicentre large scale study is warranted which may help the researchers to conclusively comment on the issue and thus plan future strategies for health care during pregnancy. Key words: Pre-pregnancy body mass index, gestational weight gain, obstetrics outcomes. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v10i3.8364 BJMS 2011; 10(3): 195-199
Access post overdenture  a solution for challenging edentulous situation
Authors: Sunil D , Neha D
Published: August 2011

The dental profession is more aware of the problems associated with a complete denture than any other prosthesis. Sorrowful situation arises due to continuous resorption of the basal bone and lack of proprioception due to loss of teeth. The answer to this nagging problem lies in the scope of “Preventive Prosthodontics”. And there is no better example of such an effort other than overdentures. This paper presents a case report of “Access post overdenture”. The advantage of this overdenture post system lies in its patented, thick walled hollow tube design, stabilizing flanges, and undercuts of the shank which offers strength, retention due to nylon caps, and stability for the prosthesis. Key words: Overdenture, access post, resorbed ridges. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v10i3.8366 BJMS 2011; 10(3): 203-205