bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk Factors for Coliform Bacteria in Backcountry Lakes and Streams in the Sierra Nevada Mountains: A 5-Year Study
Authors: Derlet Robert W. , Ali Ger K. , Richards John R. , Carlson James R.
Published: May 2008

Objective

To provide a 5-year longitudinal assessment of risk of acquiring disease from Sierra Nevada Wilderness area lakes and streams. This study examines the relative risk factors for harmful water microorganisms, using coliforms as an indicator.

Methods

Streams and lakes in the backcountry of Yosemite and Kings Canyon National Parks and neighboring wilderness areas were selected and water was analyzed each year over a 5-year period. A total of 364 samples from lakes or streams were chosen to statistically differentiate the risk categories based on land usage, as follows: 1) areas rarely visited by humans (Wild), 2) human day-use-only areas (Day Hike), 3) areas used by backpackers with overnight camping allowed (Backpack), 4) areas primarily impacted by horses or pack animals (Pack Animal), and 5) cattle and sheep grazing tracts (Cattle). Water was collected in sterile test tubes and Millipore coliform samplers. Water was analyzed at the university microbiology lab, where bacteria were harvested and then subjected to analysis using standardized techniques. Statistical analysis to compare site categories was performed utilizing Fisher exact test and analysis of variance.

Results

A total of 364 sampling sites were analyzed. Coliforms were found in 9% (4/47) of Wild site samples, 12% (5/42) of Day Hike site samples, and 18% (20/111) of Backpacker site samples. In contrast, 63% (70/111) of Pack Animal site samples yielded coliforms, and 96% (51/53) of samples from the Cattle areas grew coliforms. Differences between Backpacker vs Cattle or Pack Animal areas were significant at P ≤ .05. All samples grew normal aquatic bacteria.

Conclusion

Surface water from watersheds below cattle areas and those used by pack animals is at high risk for containing coliform organisms. Water from Wild, Day Hike, or Backpack sites poses far less risk for contamination by coliforms.
Hypoxic Preconditioning Results in Increased Motility and Improved Therapeutic Potential of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Rosová Ivana , Dao Mo , Capoccia Ben , Link Daniel , Nolta Jan A.
Published: May 2008

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) are adult multipotent cells found in bone marrow, adipose tissue, and other adult tissues. MSC have been shown to improve regeneration of injured tissues in vivo, but the mechanisms remain unclear. Typically, MSC are cultured under ambient, or normoxic, conditions (21% oxygen). However, the physiological niches for MSC in the bone marrow and other sites have much lower oxygen tension. When used as a therapeutic tool to repair tissue injuries, MSC cultured in standard conditions must adapt from 21% oxygen in culture to less than 1% oxygen in the ischemic tissue. We therefore examined the effects of preculturing human bone marrow-derived MSC in hypoxic conditions (1%–3% oxygen) to elucidate the best conditions that enhance their tissue regenerative potential. We demonstrated that MSC cultured in hypoxia activate the Akt signaling pathway while maintaining their viability and cell cycle rates. We also showed that MSC cultured in hypoxia induced expression of cMet, the major receptor for hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), and enhanced cMet signaling. MSC cultured in hypoxic conditions increased their migration rates. Since migration and HGF responsiveness are thought to be key mediators of MSC recruitment and/or activation in vivo, we next examined the tissue regenerative potential of MSC cultured under hypoxic conditions, using a murine hind limb ischemia model. We showed that local expression of HGF is increased in ischemic muscle in this model. Intra-arterial injection of MSC cultured in either normoxic or hypoxic conditions 24 hours after surgical induction of hind limb ischemia enhanced revascularization compared with saline controls. However, restoration of blood flow was observed significantly earlier in mice that had been injected with hypoxic preconditioned MSC. Collectively, these data suggest that preculturing MSC under hypoxic conditions prior to transplantation improves their tissue regenerative potential.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Nursing Home Evacuation Plans
Authors: Castle Nicholas G.
Published: May 2008

Objectives. I examined evacuation plans from 2134 nursing homes and analyzed national data to determine the types of nursing homes cited for deficiencies in their evacuation plans.

Methods. Evacuation plans were assessed according to criteria developed by an expert panel funded by the Office of the Inspector General. Deficiency citations came from the Online Survey, Certification, and Recording database, collected from 1997 to 2005. Four specific citations, for written emergency plans, staff training, written evacuation plans, and fire drills, were examined with multivariate logistic regression.

Results. Most plans had water supply provisions (96%). Only 31% specified an evacuation route. The rate of citations was relatively stable throughout the study period: each year approximately 0.6% of facilities were found to be deficient in written emergency plans, 2.1% in staff training, 1.2% in written evacuation plans, and 7.9% in fire drills.

Conclusions. Some nursing homes need more specific evacuation plans. Water supply was the most and evacuation routes were the least well-addressed areas.
Effects of Social Integration on Preserving Memory Function in a Nationally Representative US Elderly Population
Authors: Ertel Karen A. , Glymour M. Maria , Berkman Lisa F.
Published: May 2008

Objectives. We tested whether social integration protects against memory loss and other cognitive disorders in late life in a nationally representative US sample of elderly adults, whether effects were stronger among disadvantaged individuals, and whether earlier cognitive losses explained the association (reverse causation).

Methods. Using data from the Health and Retirement Study (N = 16 638), we examined whether social integration predicted memory change over 6 years. Memory was measured by immediate and delayed recall of a 10-word list. Social integration was assessed by marital status, volunteer activity, and frequency of contact with children, parents, and neighbors. We examined growth-curve models for the whole sample and within subgroups.

Results. The mean memory score declined from 11.0 in 1998 to 10.0 in 2004. Higher baseline social integration predicted slower memory decline in fully adjusted models (P<.01). Memory among the least integrated declined at twice the rate as among the most integrated. This association was largest for respondents with fewer than 12 years of education. There was no evidence of reverse causation.

Conclusions. Our study provides evidence that social integration delays memory loss among elderly Americans. Future research should focus on identifying the specific aspects of social integration most important for preserving memory.
Institutionalization of Older Adults After the Death of a Spouse
Authors: Nihtilä Elina , Martikainen Pekka
Published: May 2008

Objectives. We investigated the risk of entering long-term institutional care after the death of a spouse in relation to the duration of widowhood among older Finnish men and women. We also examined whether high levels of education or household income buffered the effects of bereavement on institutionalization.

Methods. We used linked register-based data on Finnish adults 65 years or older who were living with a spouse at the beginning of the study period (n=140902) and were followed from January 1998 to December 2002.

Results. The excess risk of institutionalization was highest during the first month following a spouse’s death compared with still living with a spouse (adjusted hazard ratio=3.31 for men, 3.62 for women). This risk decreased over time among both men and women. The relative effect of the duration of widowhood on institutionalization did not significantly vary according to the level of education or income.

Conclusions. Risk of institutionalization is particularly high immediately after the death of a spouse, demonstrating the importance of loss of social and instrumental support.
Translation of an Effective Tai Chi Intervention Into a Community-Based Falls-Prevention Program
Authors: Li Fuzhong , Harmer Peter , Glasgow Russell , Mack Karin A. , Sleet David , Fisher K. John , Kohn Melvin A. , Millet Lisa M. , Mead Jennifer , Xu Junheng , Lin Mei-Li , Yang Tingzhong , Sutton Beth , Tompkins Yvaughn
Published: May 2008

Tai Chi—Moving for Better Balance, a falls-prevention program developed from a randomized controlled trial for community-based use, was evaluated with the RE-AIM framework in 6 community centers. The program had a 100% adoption rate and 87% reach into the target older adult population. All centers implemented the intervention with good fidelity, and participants showed significant improvements in health-related outcome measures. This evidence-based tai chi program is practical to disseminate and can be effectively implemented and maintained in community settings.
The Risks, Costs, and Benefits of Possible Future Global Policies for Managing Polioviruses
Authors: Thompson Kimberly M. , Tebbens Radboud J. Duintjer , Pallansch Mark A. , Kew Olen M. , Sutter Roland W. , Aylward R. Bruce , Watkins Margaret , Gary Howard E. , Alexander James , Jafari Hamid , Cochi Stephen L.
Published: May 2008

Objectives. We assessed the costs, risks, and benefits of possible future major policy decisions on vaccination, surveillance, response plans, and containment following global eradication of wild polioviruses.

Methods. We developed a decision analytic model to estimate the incremental cost-effectiveness ratios and net benefits of risk management options for polio for the 20-year period and stratified the world according to income level to capture important variability between nations.

Results. For low-, lower-middle-, and upper-middle-income groups currently using oral poliovirus vaccine (OPV), we found that after successful eradication of wild polioviruses, OPV cessation would save both costs and lives when compared with continued use of OPV without supplemental immunization activities. We found cost-effectiveness ratios for switching from OPV to inactivated poliovirus vaccine to be higher (i.e., less desirable) than other health investment opportunities, depending on the actual inactivated poliovirus vaccine costs and assumptions about whether supplemental immunization activities with OPV would continue.

Conclusions. Eradication promises billions of dollars of net benefits, although global health policy leaders face difficult choices about future policies. Until successful eradication and coordination of posteradication policies, health authorities should continue routine polio vaccination and supplemental immunization activities.
Associations of Acculturation and Socioeconomic Status With Subclinical Cardiovascular Disease in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis
Authors: Lutsey Pamela L. , Diez Roux Ana V. , Jacobs David R. , Burke Gregory L. , Harman Jane , Shea Steven , Folsom Aaron R.
Published: May 2008

Objectives. We assessed whether markers of acculturation (birthplace and number of US generations) and socioeconomic status (SES) are associated with markers of subclinical cardiovascular disease—carotid artery plaque, internal carotid intima-media thickness, and albuminuria—in 4 racial/ethnic groups.

Methods. With data from the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (n = 6716 participants aged 45–84 years) and race-specific binomial regression models, we computed prevalence ratios adjusted for demographics and traditional cardiovascular risk factors.

Results. The adjusted US- to foreign-born prevalence ratio for carotid plaque was 1.20 (99% confidence interval [CI] = 0.97, 1.39) among Whites, 1.91 (99% CI = 0.94, 2.94) among Chinese, 1.62 (99% CI = 1.28, 2.06) among Blacks, and 1.23 (99% CI = 1.15, 1.31) among Hispanics. Greater carotid plaque prevalence was found among Whites, Blacks, and Hispanics with a greater number of generations with US residence (P < .001) and among Whites with less education and among Blacks with lower incomes. Similar associations were observed with intima-media thickness. There was also evidence of an inverse association between albuminuria and SES among Whites and Hispanics.

Conclusions. Greater US acculturation and lower SES were associated with a higher prevalence of carotid plaque and greater intima-media thickness but not with albuminuria. Maintenance of healthful habits among recent immigrants should be encouraged.
Differences by Course Discipline on Student Behavior, Persistence, and Achievement in Online Courses of Undergraduate General Education
Authors: Finnegan Catherine , Morris Libby V. , Lee Kangjoo
Published: May 2008

This research empirically examined student behavior in online courses and its relationship to persistence and achievement across fields. Eight variables descriptive of student behaviors online were measured for 1) frequency and 2) duration of participation. Twenty-two courses were grouped into three broad fields: English and Communication; Social Sciences; and Math, Science, and Technology. The descriptive data revealed significant differences in student online participation, persistence, and achievement across the fields. Multiple regression analyses were used to evaluate how well student participation measures predicted achievement. Depending on the field, different portions of the variability in achievement were accounted for by student participation measures.
One Foot in, One Foot out
Authors: Levins Richard , Dunn Mary Lee
Published: May 2008

As radical health professionals, we have the triple identity of workers, of activists, and of intellectuals that creates the cauldron in which we live contradictory lives. We share the concerns of other workers for salaries, job security, health and safety at work, and work load. But like teachers and unlike most other workers we are not completely alienated from our work and have a stake in the outcomes of our labors that we are not always free to express or act on. As professionals, we share with our colleagues the intellectual curiosity about the origins of new infectious diseases, how racism exhausts the adrenals, or the egg-laying behavior of mosquitoes in polluted environments but may be in conflict with them around the need for universal free health care, or distorted priority given to molecular approaches to disease. We are partisans in institutions that feign neutrality. As activists, we are unwilling to accept the boundaries of “professionalism” and both learn from and offer our understanding to our communities of struggle. These three moments of our lives sometimes conflict but are also mutually enriching. There is no single formula for navigating this turbulent habitat but there is an array of options for avoiding burn-out and enjoying a life that is politically productive, intellectually challenging, and with lovely people.
Self-Reported Health Effects among Community Residents Exposed to Perfluorooctanoate
Authors: Anderson-Mahoney Pamela , Kotlerman Jenny , Takhar Harpreet , Gray David , Dahlgren James
Published: May 2008

Serious health effects due to perfluorooctanoate (PFOA) exposure are suspected. The aim of this study was to evaluate the health status of nearby residents, with prolonged exposure to PFOA in their drinking water. A population of 566 white residents who were plaintiffs or potential plaintiffs in a lawsuit was evaluated by questionnaire for health history and symptoms. Standardized Prevalence Ratios were estimated using National Health and Examination Survey (NHANES) data files for comparison rates. The exposed subjects reported statistically significant greater prevalence of angina, myocardial infarction, and stroke (SPR = 8.07, 95% C.I. = 6.54 − 9.95; SPR = 1.91, 95% C.I. = 1.40 − 2.62, and SPR = 2.17, 95% C.I. = 1.47 − 3.21, respectively), chronic bronchitis, shortness of breath on stairs, asthma (SPR = 3.60, 95% C.I. = 2.92 − 4.44; SPR = 2.05, 95% C.I. = 1.70 − 2.46; SPR = 1.82, 95% C.I. = 1.47 − 2.25, respectively), and other serious health problems. The increased prevalence of adverse health effects may be due to PFOA. Further study is needed.
Mad Cows and Computer Models: The U.S. Response to BSE
Authors: Ackerman Frank , Johnecheck Wendy A.
Published: May 2008

The proportion of slaughtered cattle tested for BSE is much smaller in the U.S. than in Europe and Japan, leaving the U.S. heavily dependent on statistical models to estimate both the current prevalence and the spread of BSE. We examine the models relied on by USDA, finding that the prevalence model provides only a rough estimate, due to limited data availability. Reassuring forecasts from the model of the spread of BSE depend on the arbitrary constraint that worst-case values are assumed by only one of 17 key parameters at a time. In three of the six published scenarios with multiple worst-case parameter values, there is at least a 25% probability that BSE will spread rapidly. In public policy terms, reliance on potentially flawed models can be seen as a gamble that no serious BSE outbreak will occur. Statistical modeling at this level of abstraction, with its myriad, compound uncertainties, is no substitute for precautionary policies to protect public health against the threat of epidemics such as BSE.
Community-University Partnerships: Achieving the Promise in the Face of Changing Goals, Changing Funding Patterns, and Competing Priorities
Authors: Silka Linda , Toof Robin , Turcotte David , Villareal Julie , Buxbaum Laura , Renault-Caragianes Paulette
Published: May 2008

An important challenge that community-university partnerships face is how to maintain themselves in the face of changing goals, priorities, and funding. Partnerships often form as a result of some sort of “spark:” an incident, perhaps, or the identification of a shared need or common concern. Often, external funding is sought to provide the majority of resources for the establishment of a partnership and for the implementation of the partnership's action plan. Whatever external funding is obtained is typically of short duration. The funding will not continue over time. And usually the funding comes with stipulations about allowable partnership approaches; inevitably the priorities of one funder will differ from those of another. These issues of the maintenance of partnership in the face of shifting funding and priorities are ones that confront most community-university partnerships. This article examines these issues through the lens of an environmental justice partnership that has existed for nearly a decade, has undergone many changes in who is involved, and has operated with funding from many different sources, including the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Housing and Urban Development, and the Environmental Protection Agency.
Hypothalamic Protein Kinase C Regulates Glucose Production
Authors: Ross Rachel , Wang Penny Y.T. , Chari Madhu , Lam Carol K.L. , Caspi Liora , Ono Hiraku , Muse Evan D. , Li Xiaosong , Gutierrez-Juarez Roger , Light Peter E. , Schwartz Gary J. , Rossetti Luciano , Lam Tony K.T.
Published: May 2008

OBJECTIVE—A selective rise in hypothalamic lipid metabolism and the subsequent activation of SUR1/Kir6.2 ATP-sensitive K+ (KATP) channels inhibit hepatic glucose production. The mechanisms that link the ability of hypothalamic lipid metabolism to the activation of KATP channels remain unknown.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—To examine whether hypothalamic protein kinase C (PKC) mediates the ability of central nervous system lipids to activate KATP channels and regulate glucose production in normal rodents, we first activated hypothalamic PKC in the absence or presence of KATP channel inhibition. We then inhibited hypothalamic PKC in the presence of lipids. Tracer-dilution methodology in combination with the pancreatic clamp technique was used to assess the effect of hypothalamic administrations on glucose metabolism in vivo.

RESULTS—We first reported that direct activation of hypothalamic PKC via direct hypothalamic delivery of PKC activator 1-oleoyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycerol (OAG) suppressed glucose production. Coadministration of hypothalamic PKC-δ inhibitor rottlerin with OAG prevented the ability of OAG to activate PKC-δ and lower glucose production. Furthermore, hypothalamic dominant-negative Kir6.2 expression or the delivery of the KATP channel blocker glibenclamide abolished the glucose production-lowering effects of OAG. Finally, inhibition of hypothalamic PKC eliminated the ability of lipids to lower glucose production.

CONCLUSIONS—These studies indicate that hypothalamic PKC activation is sufficient and necessary for lowering glucose production.
Charge form factor and cluster structure of the 6Li nucleus
Authors: Krumova Galina , Tomasi-Gustafsson Egle , Antonov Anton
Published: May 2008

The charge form factor of the 6Li nucleus is considered on the basis of its cluster structure. The charge density of 6Li is presented as a superposition of two terms. One of them is a folded density and the second one is a sum of the 4He and deuteron densities. Using the available experimental data for 4He and deuteron charge form factors, a satisfactory agreement of the calculations within the suggested scheme is obtained with the experimental data for the charge form factor of 6Li, including those in the region of large transferred momenta.
First arrival dates of the Nightingale (Luscinia megarhynchos) to Central Croatia in the early 20th century and at the turn of the 21st century
Authors: Kralj Jelena , Dolenec Zdravko
Published: May 2008

Global climate change has important impacts on animal life-cycles. One of the responses to global warming is an earlier arrival time of many migratory bird species. The first arrival date of the Nightingale (Luscinia megarhynchos) in Central Croatia was studied for the periods of 1901–1917 and 1991–2005. Data were derived from the first spring observations and first capture data. A statistically significant advance of 11 ± 1.4 days was recorded. The difference in the mean April temperature between two study periods was significant, while changes in NAO winter index were not significant. Adequate data from the beginning of the 20th century exist; however, recent studies were done on a relatively short-term basis. Therefore, the analysis of two discrete datasets may help to fill the gaps in the knowledge about the climate change response.
Comparison of octenidine dihydrochloride (Octenisept®), polihexanide (Prontosan®) and povidon iodine (Betadine®) for topical antibacterial effects in Pseudomonas aeruginosa-contaminated, full-skin thickness burn wounds in rats
Authors: Uygur Fatih , Özyurt Mustafa , Evinç Rahmi , Hosbul Tugrul , Çeliköz Bahattin , Haznedaroglu Tuncer
Published: May 2008

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the most frequently isolated organisms from infected burn wounds and a significant cause of nosocomial infection and septic mortality among burn patients. In this animal study, three antiseptic agents which were Octenidine dihydrochloride (Octenisept®, Schülke & Mayr, Norderstedt, Germany), polyhexanide (Prontosan®, B. Braun, Melsungen AG, Germany) and povidon iodine (Betadine, Purdue Pharma L.P, Stamford, USA) were compared to assess the antiseptic effect of their applications on experimental burn wounds in in rats contaiminated with P. aeruginosa. All treatment modalities were effective against P. aeruginosa because there were significant differences between treatment groups and control groups. The mean eschar concentrations were not different between polyhexanide and povidon iodine groups, but there were significant differences between the octenidine dihydrochloride group and the other treatment groups, indicating that the Octenidine dihydrochloride significantly eliminated P. aeruginosa more effectively in the tissues compared to the to other agents. All treatment modalities were sufficient to prevent the P. aeruginosa invasion into the muscle and to cause systemic infection. In conclusion, Octenidine dihydrochloride is the most effective antiseptic agent in the treatment of the P. aeruginosa-contaminated burn wounds; Octenidine dihydrochloride can be considered as a treatment choice because of its peculiar ability of limit the frequency of replacing wound dressings.
The Influence of Hofmeister Series Ions on Hyaluronan Swelling and Viscosity
Authors: Mráček Aleš , Varhaníková Júlia , Lehocký Marián , Gřundělová Lenka , Pokopcová Alena , Velebný Vladimír
Published: May 2008

The dissolution of hyaluronan in water leads to its degradation, and as a resultits molecular weight decreases. The degradation of hyaluronan is mainly influenced bytemperature, solution composition, and also its pH. This study describes the influence ofHofmeister series ions on hyaluronan behaviour and hyaluronan film swelling bysolutions of these ions. It was found that Hofmeister ions show lyotropic effectsinfluencing the entanglement of hyaluronan coils and their expansion from solid polymerfilms into swollen gel state. The hydrophobic and hydrophilic interactions in the structureof hyaluronan macromolecules are represented by the mutual diffusion coefficient D(c),the mean mutual diffusion coefficient Ds , the expansion work of coil swelling RAδ,s, theactivation enthalpy of diffusion connected with swelling HD,s and kinematic viscosity ofhyaluronan-ions solutions ν.
Synthesis of an ent-Halimanolide from ent-Halimic Acid
Authors: Marcos Isidro S. , Conde Almudena , Moro Rosalina F. , Basabe Pilar , Díez David , Mollinedo Faustino , Urones Julio G.
Published: May 2008

An efficient synthesis of ent-halimanolide 2 (15,16-epoxy-12-oxo-ent-halima- 5(10),13(16),14-trien-18,2β-olide), from ent-halimic acid has been achieved, corroborating the structure of the natural compound and establishing its absolute configuration.
Prodrugs in Cardiovascular Therapy
Authors: Sandros Marinella G. , Sarraf Chady B. , Tabrizian Maryam
Published: May 2008

Prodrugs are biologically inactive derivatives of an active drug intended to solve certain problems of the parent drug such as toxicity, instability, minimal solubility and non-targeting capabilities. The majority of drugs for cardiovascular diseases undergo firstpass metabolism, resulting in drug inactivation and generation of toxic metabolites, which makes them appealing targets for prodrug design. Since prodrugs undergo a chemical reaction to form the parent drug once inside the body, this makes them very effective in controlling the release of a variety of compounds to the targeted site. This review will provide the reader with an insight on the latest developments of prodrugs that are available for treating a variety of cardiovascular diseases. In addition, we will focus on several drug delivery methodologies that have merged with the prodrug approach to provide enhanced target specificity and controlled drug release with minimal side effects.
Modeling Spatio-Temporal Dynamics of Optimum Tilt Angles for Solar Collectors in Turkey
Authors: Ertekin Can , Evrendilek Fatih , Kulcu Recep
Published: May 2008

Quantifying spatial and temporal variations in optimal tilt angle of a solar collector relative to a horizontal position assists in maximizing its performance for energy collection depending on changes in time and space. In this study, optimal tilt angles were quantified for solar collectors based on the monthly global and diffuse solar radiation on a horizontal surface across Turkey. The dataset of monthly average daily global solar radiation was obtained from 158 places, and monthly diffuse radiation data were estimated using an empirical model in the related literature. Our results showed that high tilt angles during the autumn (September to November) and winter (December to February) and low tilt angles during the summer (March to August) enabled the solar collector surface to absorb the maximum amount of solar radiation. Monthly optimum tilt angles were estimated devising a sinusoidal function of latitude and day of the year, and their validation resulted in a high R2 value of 98.8%, with root mean square error (RMSE) of 2.06o.
Nanorobot Hardware Architecture for Medical Defense
Authors: Cavalcanti Adriano , Shirinzadeh Bijan , Zhang Mingjun , Kretly Luiz C.
Published: May 2008

This work presents a new approach with details on the integrated platform and hardware architecture for nanorobots application in epidemic control, which should enable real time in vivo prognosis of biohazard infection. The recent developments in the field of nanoelectronics, with transducers progressively shrinking down to smaller sizes through nanotechnology and carbon nanotubes, are expected to result in innovative biomedical instrumentation possibilities, with new therapies and efficient diagnosis methodologies. The use of integrated systems, smart biosensors, and programmable nanodevices are advancing nanoelectronics, enabling the progressive research and development of molecular machines. It should provide high precision pervasive biomedical monitoring with real time data transmission. The use of nanobioelectronics as embedded systems is the natural pathway towards manufacturing methodology to achieve nanorobot applications out of laboratories sooner as possible. To demonstrate the practical application of medical nanorobotics, a 3D simulation based on clinical data addresses how to integrate communication with nanorobots using RFID, mobile phones, and satellites, applied to long distance ubiquitous surveillance and health monitoring for troops in conflict zones. Therefore, the current model can also be used to prevent and save a population against the case of some targeted epidemic disease.
Using SPOT-5 HRG Data in Panchromatic Mode for Operational Detection of Small Ships in Tropical Area
Authors: Corbane Christina , Marre Fabrice , Petit Michel
Published: May 2008

Nowadays, there is a growing interest in applications of space remote sensing systems for maritime surveillance which includes among others traffic surveillance, maritime security, illegal fisheries survey, oil discharge and sea pollution monitoring. Within the framework of several French and European projects, an algorithm for automatic ship detection from SPOT-5 HRG data was developed to complement existing fishery control measures, in particular the Vessel Monitoring System. The algorithm focused on feature-based analysis of satellite imagery. Genetic algorithms and Neural Networks were used to deal with the feature-borne information. Based on the described approach, a first prototype was designed to classify small targets such as shrimp boats and tested on panchromatic SPOT-5, 5-m resolution product taking into account the environmental and fishing context. The ability to detect shrimp boats with satisfactory detection rates is an indicator of the robustness of the algorithm. Still, the benchmark revealed problems related to increased false alarm rates on particular types of images with a high percentage of cloud cover and a sea cluttered background.
Analysis of Electromyographic Signals from Rats’ Stomaches for Detection and Classification of Motility
Authors: Jiménez Laura Ivoone Garay , Rodríguez Pablo Rogelio Hernández , Guerrero Roberto Muñoz , Ramírez Emma Gloria Ramos
Published: May 2008

This paper presents the analysis of the electromyographic signals from rat stomaches to identify and classify contractions. The results were validated with both visual identification and an ultrasonic system to guarantee the reference. Some parameters were defined and associated to the energy of the signal in frequency domain and grouped in a P vector. The parameters were statistically analyzed and according to the results, an artificial neuronal network was designed to use the P vectors as inputs to classify the electrical signals related to the contraction conditions. A first approach classification was performed with and without contraction classes (CR and NCR), then the same database were subdivided in four classes: with induced contraction (ICR), spontaneous contraction (SCR), without contraction due a post mortem condition (PMR) or under physiological conditions (PNCR). In a two-class classifier, performance was 86%, 93% and 91% of detections for each electrogastromyografic (EGMG) signal from each of three pairs of electrodes considered. Because in the four-class classifier, enough data was not collected for the first pair, then a three-class classifier with 82% of performance was used. For the other two EGMG signals electrode pairs, performance was of 76% and 86% respectively. Based in the results, the analysis of P vectors could be used as a contraction detector in motility studies due to different stimuli in a rat model.
Hydrologic Remote Sensing and Land Surface Data Assimilation
Authors: Moradkhani Hamid
Published: May 2008

Accurate, reliable and skillful forecasting of key environmental variables such as soil moisture and snow are of paramount importance due to their strong influence on many water resources applications including flood control, agricultural production and effective water resources management which collectively control the behavior of the climate system. Soil moisture is a key state variable in land surface–atmosphere interactions affecting surface energy fluxes, runoff and the radiation balance. Snow processes also have a large influence on land-atmosphere energy exchanges due to snow high albedo, low thermal conductivity and considerable spatial and temporal variability resulting in the dramatic change on surface and ground temperature. Measurement of these two variables is possible through variety of methods using ground-based and remote sensing procedures. Remote sensing, however, holds great promise for soil moisture and snow measurements which have considerable spatial and temporal variability. Merging these measurements with hydrologic model outputs in a systematic and effective way results in an improvement of land surface model prediction. Data Assimilation provides a mechanism to combine these two sources of estimation. Much success has been attained in recent years in using data from passive microwave sensors and assimilating them into the models. This paper provides an overview of the remote sensing measurement techniques for soil moisture and snow data and describes the advances in data assimilation techniques through the ensemble filtering, mainly Ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) and Particle filter (PF), for improving the model prediction and reducing the uncertainties involved in prediction process. It is believed that PF provides a complete representation of the probability distribution of state variables of interests (according to sequential Bayes law) and could be a strong alternative to EnKF which is subject to some limitations including the linear updating rule and assumption of jointly normal distribution of errors in state variables and observation.
PAU/GNSS-R: Implementation, Performance and First Results of a Real-Time Delay-Doppler Map Reflectometer Using Global Navigation Satellite System Signals
Authors: Marchan-Hernandez Juan Fernando , Camps Adriano , Rodriguez-Alvarez Nereida , Bosch-Lluis Xavier , Ramos-Perez Isaac , Valencia Enric
Published: May 2008

Signals from Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) were originally conceived for position and speed determination, but they can be used as signals of opportunity as well. The reflection process over a given surface modifies the properties of the scattered signal, and therefore, by processing the reflected signal, relevant geophysical data regarding the surface under study (land, sea, ice…) can be retrieved. In essence, a GNSS-R receiver is a multi-channel GNSS receiver that computes the received power from a given satellite at a number of different delay and Doppler bins of the incoming signal. The first approaches to build such a receiver consisted of sampling and storing the scattered signal for later post-processing. However, a real-time approach to the problem is desirable to obtain immediately useful geophysical variables and reduce the amount of data. The use of FPGA technology makes this possible, while at the same time the system can be easily reconfigured. The signal tracking and processing constraints made necessary to fully design several new blocks. The uniqueness of the implemented system described in this work is the capability to compute in real-time Delay-Doppler maps (DDMs) either for four simultaneous satellites or just one, but with a larger number of bins. The first tests have been conducted from a cliff over the sea and demonstrate the successful performance of the instrument to compute DDMs in real-time from the measured reflected GNSS/R signals. The processing of these measurements shall yield quantitative relationships between the sea state (mainly driven by the surface wind and the swell) and the overall DDM shape. The ultimate goal is to use the DDM shape to correct the sea state influence on the L-band brightness temperature to improve the retrieval of the sea surface salinity (SSS).
On Line Disaster Response Community: People as Sensors of High Magnitude Disasters Using Internet GIS
Authors: Laituri Melinda , Kodrich Kris
Published: May 2008

The Indian Ocean tsunami (2004) and Hurricane Katrina (2005) reveal the coming of age of the on-line disaster response community. Due to the integration of key geospatial technologies (remote sensing - RS, geographic information systems - GIS, global positioning systems – GPS) and the Internet, on-line disaster response communities have grown. They include the traditional aspects of disaster preparedness, response, recovery, mitigation, and policy as facilitated by governmental agencies and relief response organizations. However, the contribution from the public via the Internet has changed significantly. The on-line disaster response community includes several key characteristics: the ability to donate money quickly and efficiently due to improved Internet security and reliable donation sites; a computer-savvy segment of the public that creates blogs, uploads pictures, and disseminates information – oftentimes faster than government agencies, and message boards to create interactive information exchange in seeking family members and identifying shelters. A critical and novel occurrence is the development of “people as sensors” - networks of government, NGOs, private companies, and the public - to build rapid response databases of the disaster area for various aspects of disaster relief and response using geospatial technologies. This paper examines these networks, their products, and their future potential.
A Novel Modified Omega-K Algorithm for Synthetic Aperture Imaging Lidar through the Atmosphere
Authors: Guo Liang , Xing Mendao , Tang Yu , Dan Jing
Published: May 2008

The spatial resolution of a conventional imaging lidar system is constrained by the diffraction limit of the telescope’s aperture. The combination of the lidar and synthetic aperture (SA) processing techniques may overcome the diffraction limit and pave the way for a higher resolution air borne or space borne remote sensor. Regarding the lidar transmitting frequency modulation continuous-wave (FMCW) signal, the motion during the transmission of a sweep and the reception of the corresponding echo were expected to be one of the major problems. The given modified Omega-K algorithm takes the continuous motion into account, which can compensate for the Doppler shift induced by the continuous motion efficiently and azimuth ambiguity for the low pulse recurrence frequency limited by the tunable laser. And then, simulation of Phase Screen (PS) distorted by atmospheric turbulence following the von Karman spectrum by using Fourier Transform is implemented in order to simulate turbulence. Finally, the computer simulation shows the validity of the modified algorithm and if in the turbulence the synthetic aperture length does not exceed the similar coherence length of the atmosphere for SAIL, we can ignore the effect of the turbulence.
Wireless Network for Measurement of Whole-Body Vibration
Authors: Koenig Diogo , Chiaramont Marilda S. , Balbinot Alexandre
Published: May 2008

This article presents the development of a system integrated to a ZigBee network to measure whole-body vibration. The developed system allows distinguishing human vibrations of almost 400Hz in three axes with acceleration of almost 50g. The tests conducted in the study ensured the correct functioning of the system for the project’s purpose.
Near-Infrared Fluorescent Materials for Sensing of Biological Targets
Authors: Amiot Carrie , Xu Shuping , Liang Song , Pan Lingyun , Zhao Julia
Published: May 2008

Near-infrared fluorescent (NIRF) materials are promising labeling reagents for sensitive determination and imaging of biological targets. In the near-infrared region biological samples have low background fluorescence signals, providing high signal to noise ratio. Meanwhile, near-infrared radiation can penetrate into sample matrices deeply due to low light scattering. Thus, in vivo and in vitro imaging of biological samples can be achieved by employing the NIRF probes. To take full advantage of NIRF materials in the biological and biomedical field, one of the key issues is to develop intense and biocompatible NIRF probes. In this review, a number of NIRF materials are discussed including traditional NIRF dye molecules, newly developed NIRF quantum dots and single-walled carbon nanotubes, as well as rare earth metal compounds. The use of some NIRF materials in various nanostructures is illustrated. The enhancement of NIRF using metal nanostructures is covered as well. The fluorescence mechanism and bioapplications of each type of the NIRF materials are discussed in details.
Utilizing of Adsorptive Transfer Stripping Technique Brdicka Reaction for Determination of Metallothioneins Level in Melanoma Cells, Blood Serum and Tissues
Authors: Krizkova Sona , Fabrik Ivo , Adam Vojtech , Kukacka Jiri , Prusa Richard , Chavis Grace J. , Trnkova Libuse , Strnadel Jan , Horak Vratislav , Kizek Rene
Published: May 2008

In the paper we utilized the adsorptive transfer stripping differential pulse voltammetry Brdicka reaction for the determination of metallothioneins (MT) in melanoma cells, animal melanoma tissues (MeLiM miniature pig) and blood serum of patients with malignant melanoma. Primarily we attempted to investigate the influence of dilution of real sample on MT electrochemical response. Dilution of samples of 1 000 times was chosen the most suitable for determination of MT level in biological samples. Then we quantified the MT level in the melanoma cells, the animal melanoma tissues and the blood serum samples. The MT content in the cells varied within the range from 4.2 to 11.2 μM. At animal melanoma tissues (melanomas localized on abdomen, back limb and dorsum) the highest content of MT was determined in the tumour sampled on the back of the animal and was nearly 500 μg of MTs per gram of a tissue. We also quantified content of MT in metastases, which was found in liver, spleen and lymph nodes. Moreover the average MT level in the blood serum samples from patients with melanoma was 3.0 ± 0.8 μM. MT levels determined at melanoma samples were significantly (p < 0.05) higher compared to control ones at cells, tissues and blood serum.
Plant Species Recovery on a Compacted Skid Road
Authors: Demir Murat , Makineci Ender , Gungor Beyza Sat
Published: May 2008

This study was executed to determine the plant species of herbaceous cover in a skid road subjected to soil compaction due to timber skidding in a beech (Fagus orientalis Lipsky.) stand. Our previous studies have shown that ground based timber skidding destroys the soils extremely, and degradations on ecosystem because of the timber skidding limit recovery and growth of plant cover on skid roads. However, some plant species show healthy habitat, recovery and they can survive after the extreme degradation in study area. We evaluated composition of these plant species and their cover-abundance scales in 100 m x 3 m transect. 15 plant species were determined belongs to 12 plant families and Liliaceae was the highest representative plant family. Smilax aspera L., Epimedium pubigerum (DC.) Moren et Decaisne, Carex distachya Desf. var. distachya Desf., Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn., Trachystemon orientalis (L.) G. Don, Hedera helix L. have the highest coverabundance scale overall of determined species on compacted skid road.
The Landcover Impact on the Aspect/Slope Accuracy Dependence of the SRTM-1 Elevation Data for the Humboldt Range
Authors: Miliaresis George C.
Published: May 2008

The U.S. National Landcover Dataset (NLCD) and the U.S National Elevation Dataset (NED) (bare earth elevations) were used in an attempt to assess to what extent the directional and slope dependency of the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) finished digital elevation model is affected by landcover. Four landcover classes: forest, shrubs, grass and snow cover, were included in the study area (Humboldt Range in NW portion of Nevada, USA). Statistics, rose diagrams, and frequency distributions of the elevation differences (NED-SRTM) per landcover class per geographic direction were used. The decomposition of elevation differences on the basis of aspect and slope terrain classes identifies a) over-estimation of elevation by the SRTM instrument along E, NE and N directions (negative elevation difference that decreases linearly with slope) while b) underestimation is evident towards W, SW and S directions (positive elevation difference increasing with slope). The aspect/slope/landcover elevation differences modelling overcome the systematic errors evident in the SRTM dataset and revealed vegetation height information and the snow penetration capability of the SRTM instrument. The linear regression lines per landcover class might provide means of correcting the systematic error (aspect/slope dependency) evident in SRTM dataset.
A Low-Cost CMOS Programmable Temperature Switch
Authors: Li Yunlong , Wu Nanjian
Published: May 2008

A novel uncalibrated CMOS programmable temperature switch with high temperature accuracy is presented. Its threshold temperature Tth can be programmed by adjusting the ratios of width and length of the transistors. The operating principles of the temperature switch circuit is theoretically explained. A floating gate neural MOS circuit is designed to compensate automatically the threshold temperature Tth variation that results form the process tolerance. The switch circuit is implemented in a standard 0.35 μm CMOS process. The temperature switch can be programmed to perform the switch operation at 16 different threshold temperature Tths from 45－120°C with a 5°C increment. The measurement shows a good consistency in the threshold temperatures. The chip core area is 0.04 mm2 and power consumption is 3.1 μA at 3.3V power supply. The advantages of the temperature switch are low power consumption, the programmable threshold temperature and the controllable hysteresis.