bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression of protein-coding genes embedded in ribosomal DNA
Authors: Johansen Steinar D. , Haugen Peik , Nielsen Henrik
Published: June 2007

Ribosomal DNA (rDNA) is a specialised chromosomal location that is dedicated to high-level transcription of ribosomal RNA genes. Interestingly, rDNAs are frequently interrupted by parasitic elements, some of which carry protein genes. These are non-LTR retrotransposons and group II introns that encode reverse transcriptase-like genes, and group I introns and archaeal introns that encode homing endonuclease genes (HEGs). Although rDNA-embedded protein genes are widespread in nuclei, organelles and bacteria, there is surprisingly little information available on how these genes are expressed. Exceptions include a handful of HEGs from group I introns. Recent studies have revealed unusual and essential roles of group I and group I-like ribozymes in the endogenous expression of HEGs. Here we discuss general aspects of rDNA-embedded protein genes and focus on HEG expression from group I introns in the nucleolus.
Cancer-Related Fatigue: Causes, Consequences, and Management
Authors: Morrow Gary R.
Published: June 2007

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Assessment of Cancer-Related Fatigue: Implications for Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Jean-Pierre Pascal , Figueroa-Moseley Colmar D. , Kohli Sadhna , Fiscella Kevin , Palesh Oxana G. , Morrow Gary R.
Published: June 2007

Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is a highly prevalent and debilitating symptom experienced by most cancer patients during, and often for considerable periods after, treatment. The recognition of the importance of CRF to patients' psychosocial and cognitive functioning, as well as to their quality of life, has driven the development of a wide range of assessment tools for screening and diagnosis of CRF. Over 20 different measures have been used to assess CRF from either a unidimensional or multi-dimensional perspective. Unidimensional measures are often single-question scales that generally focus on identifying the occurrence and severity of CRF, whereas multidimensional measures may also examine the effect of CRF across several domains of physical, socio-emotional, and cognitive functioning. This paper provides an overview and critique of measures commonly used to assess CRF. Single-question assessment is the most commonly used and the most useful methodology. Strategies to facilitate reliable assessment of CRF are also discussed.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Pharmacologic Treatment of Cancer-Related Fatigue
Authors: Carroll Jennifer K. , Kohli Sadhna , Mustian Karen M. , Roscoe Joseph A. , Morrow Gary R.
Published: June 2007

Fatigue is the most commonly reported symptom in patients with cancer, with a prevalence of over 60% reported in the majority of studies. This paper systematically reviews pharmacologic agents in the treatment of cancer-related fatigue (CRF). We conducted a literature review of clinical trials that assessed pharmacologic agents for the treatment of CRF. These agents include hematopoietics (for anemia), corticosteroids, and psychostimulants. Other therapeutic agents that are less well studied for CRF but are currently the focus of clinical trials include l-carnitine, modafinil, bupropion, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors such as paroxetine.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Degradation of Nitrogen‐Heterocyclic Compounds by Anodic Oxidation and Electro‐Fenton Methods
Authors: Songhu Yuan , Yanchao Huang , Dajun Ren , Xiaohua Lu
Published: June 2007

This study describes the degradation of nitrogen‐heterocyclic compounds (NHCs) by anodic oxidation and electro‐Fenton. Using indole as a model nitrogen‐heterocyclic compound, the removal of indole reached 68% and 97% by anodic oxidation and electro‐Fenton, respectively, while the decay of TOC was 15% and 38% correspondingly. By the analysis of ultraviolet‐visible spectra and liquid chromatography/mass spectrum, the degradation mechanism of indole by electro‐Fenton was proposed as hydroxyl oxidation and anodic oxidation. The degradation of other NHCs including quinoline, isoquinoline and pyridine by anodic oxidation and electro‐Fenton revealed the same sequence: quinoline ≈ isoquinoline > indole ≫ pyridine. A significant correlation between ln k (natural logarithm of rate constants) and E LUMO (the energy of the lowest unoccupied molecular orbit) was obtained by quantitative structure‐activity relationship analysis. Degradation of coking plant wastewater showed the removal of COD and TOC were 42% and 22% respectively after 180 min treatment by electro‐Fenton.
Study of Using Microfiltration and Reverse Osmosis Membrane Technologies for Reclaiming Cooling Water in the Power Industry
Authors: Li J. , Xu Z. Y. , An H. G. , Liu L. Q.
Published: June 2007

A study of using dual membrane technologies, microfiltration (MF) and reverse osmosis (RO), for reclaiming blowdown of the cooling tower was conducted at ZJK power plant, Hebei province, China. The study shows that the combined MF‐RO system can effectively reduce water consumption in the power industry.    The results indicate that MF process is capable of producing a filtrate suitable for RO treatment and achieving a silt density index (SDI) less than 2, turbidity of 0.2 NTU. The water quality of RO effluent is very good with an average conductivity of about 40 μs/cm and rejection of 98%. The product water is suitable for injection into the cooling tower to counteract with cooling water intrusion.    After adopting this system, water‐saving effectiveness as expressed in terms of cycles of concentration could be increased from 2.5–2.8 times to 5 times.
Differential Pressure in Membrane Channel Caused by Foulant Capture onto Spacers
Authors: Tay Kwee Guan , Song Lianfa
Published: June 2007

Feed spacers in spiral‐wound reverse osmosis membrane modules are highly susceptible to deposition or attachment of suspended particulates and organic matters in the feed stream. This type of fouling can cause a significant pressure drop along the membrane channel (differential pressure) without much effect on the average permeate flux. In practical applications, membrane cleaning is often triggered when the differential pressure in a membrane channel exceeds a threshold value. A mathematical model was developed to simulate the development of differential pressure in the feed channel resulting from foulant capture by the feed spacers. Simulations were carried out to investigate and demonstrate the effect of various parameters on differential pressures in the membrane channel. Differential pressures observed in a two‐stage reverse osmosis water reclamation plant were simulated with the model, and the results showed that the model could adequately describe the increase of differential pressure with operating time in the reverse osmosis plant.
Kinetics of Particulate Organic Matter Removal as a Response to Bioflocculation in Aerobic Biofilm Reactors
Authors: Boltz Joshua P. , La Motta Enrique J.
Published: June 2007

Recent research has identified that the major fraction of chemical oxygen demand in domestic wastewaters is in particulate form. The research presented herein develops the kinetics of particle removal as a response to bioflocculation at the surface of aerobic biofilms. This study focuses on the removal of particles that are maintained in aqueous suspension after 30 minutes of gravity settling. It is helpful to consider the particulate organics removal process in biofilms as the sum of four steps, namely (1) external transport of the particles to the biofilm surface, (2) bioflocculation, (3) organic particulate hydrolysis, and (4) diffusion and reaction of the solubilized organics by the bacterial cells comprising the biofilm. Organic (native corn starch) and inorganic particle (Min‐U‐Sil 10 [U.S. Silica Company, Berkeley Springs, West Virginia]) suspensions, with micronutrients, were continuously fed to a rotating disc biofilm reactor to verify a first‐order kinetic expression that has been used to describe bioflocculation and to demonstrate that bioflocculation is the primary particle removal mechanism. Extracellular polymeric substances were extracted and quantified to describe the role they play in the bioflocculation process.
Wastewater Disinfection by Peracetic Acid: Assessment of Models for Tracking Residual Measurements and Inactivation
Authors: Santoro Domenico , Gehr Ronald , Bartrand Timothy A. , Liberti Lorenzo , Notarnicola Michele , Dell'Erba Adele , Falsanisi Dario , Haas Charles N.
Published: June 2007

With its potential for low (if any) disinfection byproduct formation and easy retrofit for chlorine contactors, peracetic acid (PAA) or use of PAA in combination with other disinfectant technologies may be an attractive alternative to chlorine‐based disinfection. Examples of systems that might benefit from use of PAA are water reuse schemes or plants discharging to sensitive receiving water bodies. Though PAA is in use in numerous wastewater treatment plants in Europe, its chemical kinetics, microbial inactivation rates, and mode of action against microorganisms are not thoroughly understood.    This paper presents results from experimental studies of PAA demand, PAA decay, and microbial inactivation, with a complementary modeling analysis. Model results are used to evaluate techniques for measurement of PAA concentration and to develop hypotheses regarding the mode of action of PAA in bacterial inactivation. Kinetic and microbial inactivation rate data were collected for typical wastewaters and may be useful for engineers in evaluating whether to convert from chlorine to PAA disinfection.
Assessment of Bacillus subtilis Spores as a Possible Bioindicator for Evaluation of the Microbicidal Efficacy of Radiation Processing of Water
Authors: Pribil Walter , Gehringer Peter , Eschweiler Helmut , Cabaj Alexander , Haider Thomas , Sommer Regina
Published: June 2007

Gamma and electron‐beam irradiation of Bacillus subtilis spores suspended in different types of water was studied to evaluate the inactivation of the spores and assess their possible use as a bioindicator for radiation processing. We found that the inactivation proceeded endogenously, being dose‐rate‐dependent and affected by oxygen. The radiation resistance of the suspended spores was found to be rather high; therefore, B. subtilis spores used as a bioindicator for efficiency of water treatment by radiation under practical conditions might result in the spores being overly conservative surrogates for pathogenic microorganisms. Moreover, the dose‐rate dependency impedes the use of the spores as a bioindicator. Thus, B. subtilis spores cannot be recommended as a bioindicator for evaluation of the microbicidal efficacy of ionizing radiation processing of water.
The Use of Active Metabolism and Swimming Activity to Evaluate the Toxicity of Dodecyl Benzene Sodium Sulfonate (LAS‐C12) on the Mugil platanus (Mullet) According to Temperature and Salinity
Authors: Barbieri Edison
Published: June 2007

Active metabolism and swimming activity were used to study the effects of dodecyl benzene sodium sulfonate (LAS‐C12) in Mugil platanus, a species traditionally considered as estuarine. The effects of exposure to different concentrations of LAS‐C12 (0.0, 1.0, 2.5, and 5.0 mg/L) on the active metabolism and swimming activity of Mugil platanus were evaluated. The active metabolism and swimming activity were estimated through experiments conducted on each of 9 possible combinations of three temperatures (35, 20, and 15°C) and three salinities (35, 20, and 5‰). The results show that the active metabolism increases according to the LAS‐C12 concentration in all temperatures and salinities studied. At the highest tested concentration (5.0 mg/L), the active metabolism was 111%; 84.8 and 105% higher than the control, at 35‰ salinity at the three temperatures. However, the swimming activity decreased according to the LAS‐C12 concentration in all temperatures and salinities studied. At the highest tested concentration, the swimming activity was 78.6, 73.6, and 78.7% less than the control, at 25°C at the three salinities. The active metabolism and swimming activity averages, achieved in the different salinities studied, were not significantly different, as a result of the LAS‐C12 concentration.
Why Males in Bangladesh Do Not Participate in Reproductive Health: Lessons Learned from Focus Group Discussions
Authors: Shahjahan M. , Kabir M.
Published: June 2007

The article explores male perception, attitude, and knowledge on reproductive health issues and their opinions on how men's participation in reproductive health could be increased. Data were obtained from six focus groups' sessions organized among the men aged 18–59. The participants indicated that males are not motivated to be involved in reproductive health issues in Bangladesh. The participants feel that men also have unmet reproductive and sexual health needs. Their needs are not addressed and traditionally they are not encouraged to participate in reproductive health services. In Bangladesh poor interaction between husband and wife often makes it difficult to understand reproductive health problems of women. Because of prevailing culture and myth men do not visit health facilities with their wives; they do not feel comfortable to take their wives to the health facility because they do not like to discuss sexual reproductive health issues with the service providers. The analysis suggests that a complex web of social and cultural factors impedes spousal communication regarding reproductive health issues and that discourages them to take their wives to health clinics. In the focus group discussions men said that they do not feel comfortable in discussing sexually transmitted diseases with their wives. Generally women come to the health facility for the treatment of RTIs/STDs. Men do not bring their wives to the health facility because they feel shy to discuss such diseases with service providers. In order to increase male participation in reproductive health, males suggested introduction of male workers like the present female workers and visiting at the household level to counsel and mobilize them to participate in reproductive health. The analysis indicates that male involvement will be an important strategy to reach demographic goals in Bangladesh.
Effects of Support Groups on Post Traumatic Stress Responses in Women Experiencing Stillbirth
Authors: Cacciatore Joanne
Published: June 2007

This research study explores the effects of support groups on traumatic stress responses of women experiencing stillbirth. Women ( N = 47) responded to a mixed method questionnaire. Quantitative results utilizing the Impact of Event Scale Revised demonstrate that women who attend support group, when controlling for time, had fewer post traumatic stress symptoms than did the women who did not attend support group. Qualitative results elucidate the role of support groups in managing grief, suggesting that connectivity with other like women may be a useful strategy in reducing problematic psychological outcomes.
Salinomycin toxicosis in horses
Authors: Aleman Monica , Magdesian K. Gary , Peterson Tracy S. , Galey Francis D.
Published: June 2007

Case Description—A 4-month-old American Paint filly was evaluated because of sudden onset of ataxia that progressed to recumbency. Five additional horses from the same and neighboring premises developed signs of poor performance, generalized weakness, ataxia, and recumbency; 2 of those horses were also evaluated. A new batch of a commercial feed supplement had been introduced to the horses' diet on each farm within the preceding 3 days.

Clinical Findings—Other than recumbency, findings of physical and neurologic examinations of the foal were unremarkable. The other 2 horses had generalized weakness and mild ataxia, and 1 horse also had persistent tachycardia. The foal had mild leukocytosis with neutrophilia, hyperglycemia, and mildly high serum creatine kinase activity. Results of cervical radiography, CSF analysis, and assessments of heavy metals and selenium concentrations in blood and vitamin E concentration in serum were within reference limits. Feed analysis revealed high concentrations of the ionophore antimicrobial salinomycin.

Treatment and Outcome—The 5 affected horses survived, but the foal was euthanized. At necropsy, a major histopathologic finding was severe vacuolation within neurons of the dorsal root ganglia, which was compatible with ionophore toxicosis. The surviving horses developed muscle atrophy, persistent weakness, and ataxia.

Clinical Relevance—In horses, ionophore toxicosis should be considered as a differential diagnosis for acute weakness, ataxia, recumbency, or sudden death. Furthermore, ionophore toxicosis should be considered as a cause of poor performance, weakness, muscle wasting, and cardiac arrhythmias in horses. Surviving horses may have impaired athletic performance.
Evaluation of an endoscopic liver biopsy technique in green iguanas
Authors: Hernandez-Divers Stephen J. , Stahl Scott J. , McBride Michael , Stedman Nancy L.
Published: June 2007

Objective—To establish a safe and effective endoscopic technique for collection of liver biopsy specimens from lizards by use of a 2.7-mm rigid endoscope system that is commonly available in zoologic veterinary practice.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—11 subadult male green iguanas (Iguana iguana).

Procedures—Each lizard was anesthetized, and right-sided coelioscopic examination of the right liver lobe and gallbladder was performed. Three liver biopsy specimens were collected from each lizard by use of a 2.7-mm rigid endoscope and 1.7-mm (5-F) biopsy forceps. Biopsy samples were evaluated histologically for quality and crush artifact. Ten days following surgery, all iguanas were euthanatized and underwent full necropsy examination.

Results—For all 11 iguanas, the right liver lobe and gallbladder were successfully examined endoscopically, and 3 biopsy specimens of the liver were collected without complications. Mean ± SD durations of anesthesia and surgery were 24 ± 7 minutes and 6.8 ± 1.0 minutes, respectively. At necropsy, there was no evidence of trauma or disease associated with the skin or muscle entry sites, liver, or any visceral structures in any iguana. All 33 biopsy specimens were considered acceptable for histologic interpretation; in most samples, the extent of crush artifact was considered minimal.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—By use of a 2.7-mm rigid endoscope, liver biopsy procedures can be performed safely, swiftly, and easily in green iguanas. Biopsy specimens obtained by this technique are suitable for histologic examination. For evaluation of the liver and biopsy specimen collection in lizards, endoscopy is recommended.
Fluoroscopic and radiographic evaluation of tracheal collapse in dogs: 62 cases (2001–2006)
Authors: Macready Dawn M. , Johnson Lynelle R. , Pollard Rachel E.
Published: June 2007

Objective—To compare the use of radiography and fluoroscopy for detection and grading of tracheal collapse in dogs.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—62 dogs with tracheal collapse.

Procedures—For each dog, tracheal collapse was confirmed fluoroscopically and lateral cervical and thoracic radiographic views were reviewed. A board-certified radiologist (who was unaware of the dogs' clinical history) evaluated the cervical, thoracic inlet, thoracic, carinal, and main stem bronchial regions in all fluoroscopic videos and radiographic images for evidence of collapse. Cervical, thoracic inlet, thoracic, and carinal regions in both radio-graphic and fluoroscopic studies were graded for collapse (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, or 100% decrease in diameter).

Results—Lateral cervical and thoracic radiographic images were available for 54 dogs, and inspiratory and expiratory lateral cervical and thoracic radiographic images were available for 8 dogs. For detection of tracheal collapse, assessment of radiographic views was sensitive and had the best negative predictive value in the cervical and thoracic inlet regions. Assessment of radiographic views was most specific and had the best positive predictive value in the thoracic inlet, thoracic, carina, and main stem bronchial regions. Radiography underestimated the degree of collapse in all areas. Review of inspiratory and expiratory views improved the accuracy of radiography for tracheal collapse diagnosis only slightly.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Compared with fluoroscopy, radiography underestimated the frequency and degree of tracheal collapse. However, radiography appears to be useful for screening dogs with potential tracheal collapse.
Novel corrosion protective coatings for aluminium alloys and steels based on oxidic nanoparticles
Authors: Fürbeth Wolfram , Nguyen Hong-Quang , Schütze Michael
Published: June 2007

Based on chemical nanotechnology glass-like protective coatings thermally processed at comparatively low temperatures of around 500 °C were developed for aluminium and steel substrates by two different means. Starting from polymeric sols containing a multicomponent oxide of the SiO2 – B2O3 – P2O5 – Na2O system produced by sol-gel technology under acidic conditions, coatings were developed which are thin, hard, transparent, crack-free and corrosion resistant. Electrophoretic deposition of coatings from particulate sols containing multicomponent oxide synthesised under basic conditions proved to be a promising method when very thick coatings are required. Both routes offer the potential of a new type of purely inorganic coatings for corrosion and abrasion protection.
Formation of nano hydroxyapatite – a straightforward way to bioactivate bone implant surfaces
Authors: Nies Berthold , Rößler Sophie , Reinstorf Antje
Published: June 2007

Bioactivity has been a field of biomaterials research for more than 25 years. However, clinical application of bioactive implants is progressing rather slowly and is still limited to a few types of bone implants. The increased understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying bioactivity has opened up new attractive opportunities to render conventional implant materials such as metals, ceramics and even polymers bioactive. In particular, biomimetic nano hydroxyapatite coatings and in-situ mineralising surfaces induced by incorporation of mineralisation seeds are applicable to a wide variety of implant types and materials. They have the potential to set new standards for the improved performance of orthopaedic implants whilst complying with the economic constraints on healthcare.
Re-determination of transition temperatures in the Fe–Al system by differential thermal analysis
Authors: Stein Frank , Palm Martin
Published: June 2007

The Fe – Al phase diagram has been experimentally re-investigated by differential thermal analysis on 64 alloys with different compositions in the concentration range between 0 and 74 at.% Al. For the melting temperatures, the existence of a shallow maximum at low Al-contents is proven experimentally for the first time. In the solid state, critical temperatures and invariant reactions as well as the order/disorder and ferro-/paramagnetic transitions occurring in the Fe-rich part of the binary system are studied in detail. For the most part, the present data confirm recent assessments of the Fe – Al phase diagram. Small corrections are suggested for some of the critical temperatures. Several effects related to the re-arrangement and annealing out of defects in the B2-ordered FeAl phase are also described. No effect which could be related to the K state has been found. Instead an effect was observed in the same temperature range but for a much wider range of compositions, which is probably due to the formation/dissolution of Fe3AlC precipitates.
Stimuli-responsive polymer layers for advanced cell culture technologies
Authors: Voit Brigitte , Schmaljohann Dirk , Gramm Stefan , Nitschke Mirko , Werner Carsten
Published: June 2007

A series of graft copolymers consisting of poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) as a thermoresponsive component in the polymer backbone and poly(ethyleneglycol) side chains were immobilized as thin films on various substrates via low-pressure plasma treatment. The surface-immobilized hydrogels exhibit a transition from partially collapsed to completely swollen, which is in the range of 32 – 35 °C and corresponds to the lower critical solution temperature of the soluble polymers. Cell culture and detachment experiments were performed with mouse fibroblasts and human corneal endothelial cells under standard conditions. The hydrogel-coated supports were found to permit adhesion, spreading and proliferation of the cells and allowed for fast and effective temperature-dependent detachment of intact cell sheets of both cell types. Thus, these coatings offer an efficient method for growth and gentle harvesting of functional cellular assemblies for use in tissue engineering strategies.
The Liberal Grounding of the Right to Health Care
Authors: Filc Dani
Published: June 2007

The language of rights is increasingly used to regulate access to health care and allocation of resources in the health care field. The right to health has been grounded on different theories of justice. Scholars within the liberal tradition have grounded the right to health care on Rawls's two principles of justice. Thus, the right to health care has been justified as being one of the basic liberties, as enabling equality of opportunity, or as being justified by the maximin principle. In this article, Filc analyzes—from a radical egalitarian standpoint—the limitations of the different attempts to ground an equal right to health on Rawls's theory of justice and offers a first approximation to a radical egalitarian formulation of the right to health.
Needs, Medical Necessity, and the Problem of Helping the Uninsured
Authors: Ward Andrew
Published: June 2007

The nature of health care, a multifaceted system of reimbursements, subsidies, levels of care, and trade-offs between economics, values and social goods, makes it both a problematic area of policy and critical to the well-being of society. In the United States, provision of health care is not a right as in some countries, but occurs as a function of a complex set of cross-subsidized mechanisms that, according to some analysts, exclude from coverage those who may be in the most need of it. Accordingly, this article examines some of the issues involved in making decisions on how to justly expand health insurance.
Wie viel Totholz braucht der Wald? | Dead wood in managed forests: how much is enough?
Authors: Bütler Rita , Schlaepfer Rodolphe
Published: June 2007

Dead wood is of paramount importance for forest biodiversity. For this reason it was adopted as an indicator for sustainable forest management by the Ministerial Conference on the protection of forests in Europe. This paper aims to answer the question of how much dead wood is necessary for the maintenance of biodiversity in sub-alpine spruce forest ecosystems. For this purpose we studied the habitat preferences of the three-toed woodpecker, a bird species that depends heavily on dead trees. Previous ecological studies had already demonstrated that this woodpecker is an indicator of spruce forests with a high degree of naturalness and biodiversity. Our field study in Swiss sub-Alpine spruce and Swedish boreal forests showed that, below a threshold level of about 20 m3 standing dead trees per ha, the probability of finding these woodpeckers drastically decreases. Similar results were obtained using a bioenergetic model, which calculated the energy requirements of this insectivorous woodpecker. Based on the results, our recommendation is to ensure a scattering of dead-wood rich areas in forest landscapes. Each area should cover about one square kilometre and have a mean of 5% of standing dead trees (≥ 18 m3 ha–1), and a total of approx. 9% of dead wood(≥ 33 m3 ha–1 standing and fallen).
Waldweide im Alpenraum. Neubewertung einer traditionellen Mehrfachnutzung | Forest grazing in alpine regions: a re-evaluation of a multi-usage tradition
Authors: Mayer Andrea Corinna , Stöckli Veronika , Gotsch Nikolaus , Konold Werner , Kreuzer Michael
Published: June 2007

The results of the research project show that subalpine wood pastures produce a heterogenous forest structure, which provide appropriate forage for cattle as well as sustainable protection from natural hazards. A condition is that the animal stocking rate does not exceed a certain level in order to keep browsing damage to a minimum, thereby influencing as little as possible the regeneration of the forest. A close combination of forest and pasture provides better protection from avalanches than the separation of forest area from enlarged open pastures.
Stammholz-Volumenbestimmung über Mittendurchmesser und Mittenabholzigkeit | Determination of stemwood volume using mid-diameter and taper
Authors: Felder Stefan
Published: June 2007

The volume of stemwood can be determined if in the middle of the log, measurements are taken from the diameter and from the shaft's slope. Huber's formula provides an exact measurement for stumps of the cylinder and the apollonian paraboloid, but underestimates the volume for stumps of the cone and the neiloid.
Die Rolle der Wälder im Protokoll von Kyoto – Abschätzung ihres Kohlenstoffvorrates gestützt auf Satellitendaten | The role of the forest in the Kyoto Protocol – Estimation of carbon reserve using satellite data
Authors: Romero José , Volz Richard , Giamboni Marzio , Rüsch Willy
Published: June 2007

Switzerland became a signatory to the climate convention in 1993 and ratified the Kyoto Protocol in 2003. This means that in the period from 2008 to 2012 the country is committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 8%compared to 1990. Switzerland has to deposit its annual greenhouse gas inventory with the Climate Convention Secretariat. This also includes accounts of the CO2 of the forest.

Within the framework of its Data User Programme the European Space Agency (ESA) has offered to test the use of its Remote Collected Data System for forest reporting for the Kyoto Protocol. By participating in this project Switzerland aims to examine in how far it can automate its annual forest CO2 balance using objective data taken directly from the satellite.
Der Sommer und Herbst 2003 aus phänologischer Sicht | Summer and autumn 2003 from a phenological point of view
Authors: Defila Claudio
Published: June 2007

The record-breaking heatwave of 2003 also had an impact on the vegetation in Switzerland. To examine its influences seven phenological late spring and summer phases were evaluated together with six phases in the autumn from a selection of stations. 30% of the 122 chosen phenological time series in late spring and summer phases set a new record (earliest arrival). The proportion of very early arrivals is very high and the mean deviation from the norm is between 10 and 20 days. The situation was less extreme in autumn, where 20% of the 103 time series chosen set a new record. The majority of the phenological arrivals were found in the class «normal» but the class«very early» is still well represented. The mean precocity lies between five and twenty days. As far as the leaf shedding of the beech is concerned, there was even a slight delay of around six days. The evaluation serves to show that the heatwave of 2003 strongly influenced the phenological events of summer and spring.
Wald und Waldpolitik im Kanton Tessin – die neuen Herausforderungen | Forest and forest policy in the Canton Ticino – a new challenge
Authors: Delucchi Marco
Published: June 2007

Half of the surface of the Swiss Canton Ticino is covered by forest,which has an enormous annual increment of nearly half a million cubic meters. 40% of the forest surface protects human lives and goods from natural hazards. In the medium term 18%will be defined as forest reserve and 8000 ha have a special recreational function. For topographical reasons, and because of the ownership structure and lack of infrastructure, only 10%of the increment is harvested each year and two third of the lumber is low-quality energy wood. The promotion of wood heating systems in the public sector to guarantee a certain market for such lumber has high political priority. In the medium term such a wood energy policy will allow the peripheral regions to survive. With the employment of geologists and by maintaining the forestry districts the Cantonal forest authorities have taken the initiative in the combat against natural hazards.
La gestione degli incendi boschivi in Canton Ticino: tentativo di una sintesi storica | Forest fire management in Canton Ticino: attempting a historical overview
Authors: Conedera Marco , Corti Gabriele , Piccini Paolo , Ryser Daniele , Guerini Francesco , Ceschi Ivo
Published: June 2007

The Southern Alps, in particular the Canton Ticino, is the region of Switzerland that is most affected by the phenomenon of forest fires. Therefore, the cantonal authorities are continually confronted with problems of prevention, fire fighting and mitigation of the effects of forest fires. In this article forest fire management in Canton Ticino is analyzed in historical terms, verifying in particular the impact of the methods used and the improvement of technology addressing the frequency of events and the extent of burned surfaces. In this way it has been possible to show how a few structural measures (better organization of fire fighting crews and equipment, introduction of aerial fire fighting techniques, electrification followed by construction of shelters along railway lines, etc.) have rather reduced the extent of burned surfaces, while legislative measures such as restrictions of open fires help to reduce the number of forest fires.
Il bacino del Cassarate: Sintesi di 120 anni di interventi forestali volti a garantire la sicurezza del territorio | Summary of 120 years of forestry engineering to secure territory
Authors: Mariotta Sergio
Published: June 2007

In the 19th century the hydrogeological situation of the watershed of the Cassarate river was in an unstable state. After 120 years of hydraulic and forestry engineering, the situation surrounding the basin has improved. The article recapitulates a study, which was ordered by Swiss Federal authorities and the Canton Tessin and carried out between 1997 and 2000. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of this kind of intervention and illustrates how it enabled the urbanization of a zone that in the past had always been menaced by natural dangers caused by the Cassarate river.
Il parco nazionale del Locarnese: la sfida di un progetto di sviluppo regionale | The National Park in the region of Locarno: a regional development project
Authors: Gianoni Pippo , Carraro Gabriele
Published: June 2007

A project, launched in 2000, for a new Swiss National Park in the region of Locarno afforded local communities the opportunity to discuss certain aims and proposals and to consider the development of their surroundings and the best use of their territorial resources in terms of recreation.

Based on a feasibility study carried out in the region of Locarno and Vallemaggia, the present study focuses on the data that concern the geographical character of the area in question. Forests – sizeable and variated pine forests, amongst others– account for half of the area. Natural spaces make up more than 90% of the entire region.

The National Park project is not only a challenge as far as the environment is concerned but also at cultural and institutional levels. Above all, therefore, the evolution of a new National Park is a process; a process that calls for reflection on new environment management models and lends new cultural impulse to seek out the triumvirate of human-creativitynature.
Ernährungszustand und mögliche Anpassungsmechanismen der Fichte (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) auf Dolomitstandorten der Bayerischen Kalkalpen: Ergebnisse eines Düngeversuches an jungen Schutzwaldsanierungspflanzen | Nutrition status and possible adaptation mechanisms of Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) on dolomite sites in the Bavarian Limestone Alps: Results from a fertilisation experiment on young plantations in protection forests
Authors: Baier Roland
Published: June 2007

At two dolomite sites in the Bavarian Limestone Alps we studied the benefits of NPK- and Biosol-fertilisation on young, planted Norway spruces and how Norway spruce is naturally adapted to this nutrient poor environment. Based on our results we deduced recommendations for forest practice.
Welkesymptome an Edelkastanien im Sommer 2003 auf der Alpensüdseite der Schweiz | Withering symptoms of chestnut in summer 2003 on the southern side of the Swiss Alps
Authors: Barthold Frauke , Conedera Marco , Torriani Damiano , Spinedi Fosco
Published: June 2007

The drought and extremely high temperatures in summer 2003 led to withering symptoms in the chestnut stands in Canton Ticino. Stands on the peripheries of forests and those on shallow soil sites were most heavily hit. Investigation shows that the chestnut in the area studied has no protective mechanisms to prevent excessive transpiration.
Auffällige Stammkrebse an Eiben (Taxus baccata L.) im Fürstenwald bei Chur (Graubünden, Schweiz) | Stem Canker of Yew Trees (Taxus baccata L.) in the Fürstenwald near Chur, Canton Grisons, Switzerland
Authors: Hassler Jürg , Schoch Werner , Engesser Roland
Published: June 2007

The yew (Taxus baccata L.) is not generally considered to be susceptible to fungal infections or destructive insects. In the Fürstenwald near Chur (Canton Grisons,Switzerland) however, every fourth yew in a population manifests widespread stem canker. Fungal infection is suspected to be the cause of the cankerous growth.
Ökologische Resilienz nach Feuer: Die Waldbrandfläche Leuk als Modellfall | Ecological resilience after fire: the forest fire area above Leuk as a model case study
Authors: Wohlgemuth Thomas , Duelli Peter , Ginzler Christian , Gödickemeier Iris , Hadorn Stefan , Hagedorn Frank , Küttel Peter , Lüscher Peter , Moretti Marco , Schneiter Gustav , Sciacca Stéphane , Wermelinger Beat
Published: June 2007

The forest fire area above Leuk (Canton Valais, Switzerland)has served since 2004 for several studies on ecological resilience. On the 300 ha patch that ranges from 800 to 2100 m a.s.l., several samples have been installed. Vegetation changes were monitored representatively on a grid of 125 m cell size. The vegetation of the intact forest vegetation could be compared on a formerly assessed stratified sample and by re-assessing the actual vegetation. Along six horizontal transects at different altitudes, soil samples were taken from different layers of 25 soil profiles. Invertebrate fauna was collected weekly during the summer season at 18 localities along three transects at different altitudes. Localities were grouped into the three types«intact forest», «burnt forest» and «transition zone». One year after the fire, following results are at hand: For a wide area,the vegetation was literally missing. Surprisingly, at scales of 0.25 ha, the actual number of plant species was not significantly different from the former intact forest vegetation. As an indicator of fire intensity, the ash layer was significantly and negatively correlated with the vegetation cover in 2004. At altitudes between 1200 and 1600 m a.s.l., the fire intensity turned out to have been most severe. The fire resulted in a general increase of the pH in the top soil by means of 1 to 1.5 units if compared to unburned top soils of the corresponding communities,basically as an effect of burnt organic acids and by the loss of protons. A superficial hydrophobic carbonate layer resulted from cations freed by the burning process. In consequence,erosion processes on steep places were intensified. Invertebrate diversity was surprisingly high one year after the forest fire. The most frequent groups were beetles, aculeateHymenoptera, two-winged flies, and parasitic wasps. About 50% of the collected individuals were pollinators and 28,5%were predators. Highest individual numbers were counted in the transition zone. The started projects will be continued in the next few years.
Considerazioni sugli incendi boschivi causati da fulmini | Some considerations on fires caused by lightning
Authors: Cesti Giancarlo , Conedera Marco , Spinedi Fosco
Published: June 2007

Lightning fires are not considered an important problem in Europe, especially in the Mediterranean region, where lightning is a minor cause of fire. On the southern slopes of the Alps,however, lighting fires are common enough during the summer months to cause relevant costs for their control. In this contribution, we discuss some general features concerning the lighting-generating thunderstorms, starting of the fire, fire behaviour and fire extinction, especially in the valley Aosta(Italy) and in the Canton Ticino (Switzerland).
Human Development – Friend or Foe to Environmental Ethics?
Authors: Dower Nigel
Published: June 2007

This article is premised on the assumption that in order for us adequately to protect our environment, significant adjustments need to be made to the ways we pursue and think about development – adjustments not merely to technologies but also to life-styles. In this respect the emphasis in much recent development literature on human development is to be welcomed as a useful corrective to definitions of development in terms of economic growth, though there is still a danger of anthropocentric assumptions. It is argued that, given suitable interpretations or conceptions of development and environment, environmental care can be, and should be, integrated into authentic human development. Proposals for such conceptual alignment stem both from seeing the relevant community in which development qua desirable change is to take place as the biotic community, and from seeing development as desirable change in the total environment, both natural and artificial, regarded as a social field of significance. Such conceptual adjustments are a significant part, but of course only a part, of what needs to be done to bring public policy more into line with proper care for the environment.
The Naïve Argument against Moral Vegetarianism
Authors: Alward Peter
Published: June 2007

The naïve argument against moral vegetarianism claims that if it is wrong for us to eat meant then it is wrong for lions and tigers to do so as well. I argue that the fact that such carnivores lack higher order mental states and need meat to survive do suffice to undermine the naive argument.
The Dynamics of Framing Environmental Values and Policy: Four Models of Societal Processes
Authors: Miller Clark A.
Published: June 2007

While the subject of framing has achieved considerable recognition recently among social scientists and policy analysts, less attention has been given to how societies arrive at stable, collective frames of meaning for environmental values and policy. This paper proposes four models of societal processes by which framing occurs: narration, modelling, canonisation and normalisation. These four models are developed, compared, and explored in detail through a case study of the framing of the impacts of climate change on human societies in US science policy from the 1960s through the 1990s. I conclude by offering a number of potentially fruitful avenues for further research into the dynamics of framing.
Population: Time-Bomb or Smoke-Screen?
Authors: Petrucci Mario
Published: June 2007

'Overpopulation' is often implicated as a major causative factor of poverty and environmental degradation in the developing world. This review of the population-resource debate focusses on Red, Green and neo-Malthusian ideologies to demonstrate how they have ramified into current economic and development theory. A central hypothesis is that key elements of Marxist analysis, tempered by the best of Green thought, still have much to offer the subject. The contributions of capitalism to 'underdevelopment', and its associated environmental crises, are clarified and reasserted in a contemporary context.

The concept of valuation vector is also introduced, and a novel closure of Blaikie's 'Chain of Explanation' is proposed. The Circuit of Capital model thus created is applied to specific case-studies of resource-population conflict so as to overturn the simplistic conventional connection held between population growth and ecological devastation. The model highlights sequential causes of poverty arising from important capital-based factors which might otherwise be overlooked. It can accommodate a variety of Red-Green perspectives and its structural form is suited to the unravelling of complex population-resource pressures in the multi-dimensional space of the modern global political economy.
The Value of Nature's Otherness
Authors: Hailwood Simon A.
Published: June 2007

Environmentalist philosophers often paint a holistic picture, stressing such things as the continuity of humanity with wider nature and our membership of the 'natural community'. The implication seems to be that a non-anthropocentric philosophy requires that we strongly identify ourselves with nature and therefore that we downplay any human/non-human distinction. An alternative view, I think more interesting and plausible, stresses the distinction between humanity and a nature valued precisely for its otherness. In this article I discuss some of its main elements, and some of the difficulties involved with keeping nature's otherness in focus. Firstly (in sections 1-5), I try to clarify what I take to be the otherness-based position by distinguishing it from the apparently similar views of John Passmore, Robert Elliott and Keekok Lee, and some opposed holistic views, especially of J. Baird Callicott. Then, in the second half of the article (sections 6-7), I argue that if nature is valued in virtue of its otherness, this value is best thought of as an extrinsic, final and objective good, where 'objectivity' is a 'method of understanding', in Thomas Nagel's sense. Although I give some reasons for preferring an otherness account to certain alternative positions, I make no overall attempt to 'prove' that nature is valuable for its otherness. My aim is to show that, if it is, then this seems the best way to understand that value.
Teleological Presuppositions, and the 'Expectation Gap': A Response to Laura Westra
Authors: Lucas Peter
Published: June 2007

Critical response to Laura Westra's article "The Disvalue of 'Contingent Valuation' and the Problem of the 'Expectation Gap'" (Environmental Values Vol.9, No.2, pp.153-171).
From the Inside Out
Authors: Palmer Ronan
Published: June 2007

Environmental values are integral to the work of environmental regulators. However values are not simple concepts that can be 'applied' by the regulators. How they are taken on board will depend, inter alia, on the nature of the organisation, its staff and the issues it deals with. Because the environment is complex, the use of values, and in particular of monetary values, will also be complex. While certain ways of expressing values may not be without problems, they can still provide useful guidelines for action. An organisation uses both internal and external processes to develop and articulate values. The challenge is, over time, to integrate these processes and make them more meaningful.
Decisions vs. Willingness-to-Pay in Social Choice
Authors: Anand Paul
Published: June 2007

The paper compares use of willingness to pay values with multi-attribute utility as ways of modelling social choice problems in the environment. A number of reasons for moving away from willingness to pay are reviewed. The view proposed is that social choice is about the integration of competing claim types (utilities, rights, social contracts and beliefs about due process). However, willingness to pay is only indirectly related to the first of these and assumes an Arrovian approach, namely one in which social choice is regarded as the aggregation of people's preferences.