bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fresnel reflectance in refractive index estimation of light scattering solid particles in immersion liquid
Authors: Räty J. , Niskanen I. , Peiponen K.-E.
Published: June 2010

The refractive index of homogenous particle population can be determined by the so-called immersion liquid method. The idea is to find a known liquid whose refractive index matches the index of the particles. We report on a method that simultaneously obtains the refractive index of particles and that of the immersion liquid. It is based on a system using internal light reflection and Fresnel’s theory. The method includes a series of straightforward reflection measurements and a fitting procedure. The validity of the method was tested with CaF2 particles. The method has applications within scientific studies of microparticles and nanoparticles or micro-organism in suspensions. It can be also be utilized in industry for the detection of the refractive index of products involving particles for the purpose of improvement of product quality.
Impact of secondary gas-phase reactions on microcrystalline silicon solar cells deposited at high rate
Authors: Parascandolo G. , Bartlome R. , Bugnon G. , Söderström T. , Strahm B. , Feltrin A. , Ballif C.
Published: June 2010

The role of secondary gas-phase reactions during plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition of microcrystalline silicon is a controversial subject. In this paper, we show that the enhancement of such reactions is associated with the improvement of material properties of absorber layers deposited at high constant rate. We detect powder, a product of secondary gas-phase reactions, via infrared laser absorption spectroscopy, laser light scattering, and optical emission spectroscopy. As the powder formation is increased, we measure a systematic improvement of device performance. This demonstrates that secondary gas-phase reactions are not detrimental to the material quality of microcrystalline silicon deposited at high rate.
Two-dimensional infrared spectroscopy and ultrafast anisotropy decay of water
Authors: Jansen T. l. C. , Auer B. M. , Yang Mino , Skinner J. L.
Published: June 2010

We introduce a sparse-matrix algorithm that allows for the simulation of two-dimensional infrared (2DIR) spectra in systems with many coupled chromophores. We apply the method to bulk water, and our results are based on the recently developed ab initio maps for the vibrational Hamiltonian. Qualitative agreement between theory and experiment is found for the 2DIR spectra without the use of any fitting or scaling parameters in the Hamiltonian. The calculated spectra for bulk water are not so different from those for HOD in D2O, which we can understand by considering the spectral diffusion time-correlation functions in both cases. We also calculate the ultrafast anisotropy decay, which is dominated by population transfer, finding very good agreement with experiment. Finally, we determine the vibrational excitation diffusion rate, which is more than two orders of magnitude faster than the diffusion of the water molecules themselves.
Diffusion in copper and copper alloys part V. diffusion in systems involving elements of group VA
Authors: Butrymowicz Daniel B. , Manning John R. , Read Michael E.
Published: June 2010

A survey, comparison, and critical analysis is presented of data compiled from the scientific literature concerning diffusion in copper alloy systems involving elements in Group VA (As, Bi, N, P, Sb). Here the term ’’copper alloy system’’ is interpreted in the broadcast sense. For example, the review of diffusion in the Cu-M system reports all diffusion situations which involve both copper and element M, including diffusion of Cu in M or in any binary, ternary, or multicomponent alloy containing M; diffusion of M in Cu or in any alloy containing Cu; and diffusion of any element in any alloy containing both Cu and M. Topics include volume diffusion, grain boundary diffusion, tracer diffusion, alloy interdiffusion, electromigration, thermomigration, strain-enhanced diffusion and diffusion in molten metals. An extensive bibliography is presented along with figures, tabular presentation of data, and discussion of results.
The viscosity and thermal conductivity coefficients for dense gaseous and liquid methane
Authors: Hanley H. J. M. , Haynes W. M. , McCarty R. D.
Published: June 2010

Data for the viscosity and thermal conductivity coefficients of dense gaseous and liquid methane have been evaluated. Selected data were fitted to a function derived in our previous work and tables of values were generated for temperatures from 95 to 500 K and for pressures up to 50 MPa (∠500 atm). The uncertainties of the tabular values are estimated to be approximately 3% and 5% for the viscosity and thermal conductivity coefficients, respectively. The contribution for the thermal conductivity enhancement in the critical region is included in the tables. Care has been taken to ensure that the calculated values are consistent with reliable equation-of-state data and also with dilute gas transport coefficients determined previously.
Phase diagrams and thermodynamic properties of ternary copper-silver systems
Authors: Chang Y. Austin , Goldberg Daniel , Neumann Joachim P.
Published: June 2010

Phase diagram and thermodynamic data for twenty ternary copper-silver-X alloy systems—where X represents Al,Au,Cd,Fe,Ge,In,Mg,Mn,Ni,P,Pb,Pd,Re,S,Sb,Se,Sn,Te,Ti or Zn—were compiled and critically evaluated. Of the twenty ternary systems, thermodynamic data are available for only the seven systems containing Au,Pb,Pd,S,Sn,Te and Zn. The high-temperature phase relationships in the iron-rich region of the Cu-Fe binary system were also evaluated and a recommended phase diagram is presented.
Viscosity of water substance—new international formulation and its background
Authors: Nagashima A.
Published: June 2010

The paper traces the development of our knowledge of the viscosity of water and steam over the last decade, that is over the period of intense experimental and analytic activity which separates the promulgation of the 1964 Supplementary Release on Transport Properties of the Sixth ICPS from the recently announced Release on Dynamic Viscosity of Water Substance. As a result of this work, which was largely stimulated by the activities of the International Association for the Properties of Steam, the new internationally recognized skeleton table and the internationally recommended interpolation equations cover the wide range of pressures and temperatures of 0–100 MPa and 0–800°C.
Ideal gas thermodynamic properties of phenol and cresols
Authors: Kudchadker S. A. , Kudchadker A. P. , Wilhoit R. C. , Zwolinski B. J.
Published: June 2010

The standard chemical thermodynamic properties of phenol, o-cresol, and m-cresol, and p-cresol were calculated by use of the rigid rotor harmonic oscillator approximation. The partition functions for internal rotation of -OH and -CH3 groups were calculated as a direct sum over the internal rotation energy levels. It was assumed that o-cresol is a mixture of two rotational isomers. Values of molecular parameters, fundamental frequencies, potential barriers to internal rotation and enthalpies of formation were selected from among those reported in the literature and from some additional molecular orbital calculations.
Atomic transition probabilities for vanadium, chromium, and manganese (a critical data compilation of allowed lines)
Authors: Younger S. M. , Fuhr J. R. , Martin G. A. , Wiese W. L.
Published: June 2010

Atomic transition probabilities for about 2700 spectral lines of the elements vanadium, chromium, and manganese through all stages of ionization have been critically evaluated and compiled. All available literature sources have been utilized. Systematic trends along isoelectronic sequences have been extensively exploited to predict oscillator strengths (f-values) whenever no data were available in the literature. The data are presented in separate tables for each element and stage of ionization and are arranged according to multiplets and, when appropriate, also to transition arrays and increasing quantum numbers. For each line, the transition probability for spontaneous emission, the absorption oscillator strength, and the line strength are given, along with the spectroscopic designation, the wavelength, the statistical weights, and the energy levels (when available) of the upper and lower atomic states. In addition, the estimated accuracy and the literature reference are indicated. In short introductions, which precede the tables for each spectrum, the main justifications for the choice of the adopted data and for the accuracy rating are discussed. A general introduction contains some more details on our evaluation procedure.
Thermodynamic properties of ammonia
Authors: Haar Lester , Gallagher John S.
Published: June 2010

An analytic thermodynamic surface has been fitted to the experimental data for ammonia for the temperature range extending from the triple point to 750 kelvins and for the pressure range extending from the dilute gas to 500 MPa (5000 bar). Values for the thermodynamic properties are tabulated at closely spaced intervals. A major part of the correlation was devoted to a study of the extent to which thermodynamic inconsistencies degrade the accuracy of the derived properties. This study focused as much on methods for correlating the data as on the data themselves. As a consequence, we are able to assign close tolerances to the tabulated thermodynamic properties over the range of the surface, including properties for the coexisting phases and even close to the liquid-vapor critical point.
Recommended atomic electron binding energies, 1s to 6p3/2, for the heavy elements, Z=84 to 103
Authors: Porter F. T. , Freedman M. S.
Published: June 2010

Recent experimental measurements of atomic electron binding energies, 1s to 6p3/2, for certain of the transuranic elements are incorporated into interpolation and extrapolation procedures yielding new recommendations for the electron binding energies from Z=84 to 103.
Microwave spectral tables II. Triatomic molecules
Authors: Lovas Frank J.
Published: June 2010

All of the rotational spectra lines observed and reported in the open literature for 54 triatomic molecules have been tabulated. The isotopic molecular species, assigned quantum numbers, observed frequency, estimated measurement uncertainty and reference are given for each transition reported. In addition to correcting a number of misprints and errors in the literature cited, the spectral lines for approximately 15 molecules have been refit to produce a comprehensive and consistent analysis of all the data extracted from various literature sources. Both measured and predicted transition frequencies are listed for several isotopic forms of HCN, H2O, H2S, OCS, SO2, and O3. The derived molecular properties, such as rotational and centrifugal distortion constants, hyperfine structure constants, electric dipole moments, and rotational g-factors are listed with one standard deviation uncertainty for all values.
A review, evaluation, and correlation of the phase equilibria, heat of mixing, and change in volume on mixing for liquid mixtures of methane+ethane
Authors: Hiza M. J. , Miller R. C. , Kidnay A. J.
Published: June 2010

The available experimental data for liquid-vapor equilibria, heat of mixing, and change in volume on mixing for the methane+ethane system have been reviewed and where possible evaluated for consistency. The derived properties chosen for analysis and correlation were liquid mixture excess Gibbs energies, Henry’s constants, and K values. Data sets, selected on the basis of the consistency tests applied, were correlated as functions of temperature and composition to provide internally consistent sets of property values suitable for engineering design calculations.
Comments Simplification of thermodynamic calculations through dimensionless entropies
Authors: Pitzer Kenneth S. , Brewer Leo
Published: June 2010

The advantages of using thermodynamic quantities divided by the gas constant (H/R, G/R, etc,) in calculations are described. It is recommended that thermodynamic tables be presented in this form, so that the entries are either dimensionless or in units of kelvins.
Refractive index of alkaline earth halides and its wavelength and temperature derivatives
Authors: Li H. H.
Published: June 2010

Available data on the refractive index and its temperature derivative for alkaline earth halides were exhaustively surveyed, compiled, and analyzed. The most probable values of the refractive index at 293 K for the transparent region were generated for the materials for which experimental data were sufficiently abundant and reliable. Provisional values were also generated for the wavelength regions where available data were less abundant. Reasonable estimations of refractive index for the very scantily measured materials were made by incorporating the dielectric constants and wavelengths of absorption peaks into a simplified dispersion equation. It was found that of the twenty alkaline earth halides only seven, namely, MgF2, CaF2, SrF2, BaF2, CaCl2, SrCl2, and BaCl2, appear in the open literature with refractive index measurements. Most of the available data are for the first four of the seven materials. Temperature derivatives of refractive index for most of the alkaline earth halides were unavailable. As a result, data analysis of dn/dT was limited to CaF2, SrF2, and BaF2.
Microwave spectra of molecules of astrophysical interest. XVIII. Formic acid
Authors: Willemot Edmond , Dangoisse Didier , Monnanteuil Nicole , Bellet Jean
Published: June 2010

The available data on the microwave spectrum of formic acid are critically reviewed for information applicable to radioastronomy. Molecular data such as the derived rotational constants, centrifugal distortion constants and electric dipole moment are tabulated. The observed rotational transitions are presented for the astronomically interesting isotopic forms. Calculated rotational transitions up to 300 GHz are presented for the ground vibrational state of H12C16O16OH, H12C16O16OD, D12C16O16OH and H13C16O16OH. Some observed transitions are also listed for H12C16O18OH and H12C18O16OH. Estimated error limits have been reported for all measured transitions.
A compilation of kinetic parameters for the thermal degradation of n-alkane molecules
Authors: Allara D. L. , Shaw Robert
Published: June 2010

A list of several hundred free-radical reactions which occur during the low temperature (700–850 K) pyrolysis of small n-alkane molecules has been assembled and a set of reliable, self-consistent Arrhenius rate parameters has been assigned on the basis of experiment, theory, thermochemical estimates and structural analogy. Rate parameters have been recommended for the following types of reactions, with the number of each type in parentheses: initiation (32), recombination (135), disproportionation (108), H-transfer (112), decomposition (41), addition (58), and isomerization (11), givin a total of 505 reactions. This compilation is intended for use in assembling reaction matrices in computational modeling studies of the thermal reactions of hydrocarbon molecules.
Microwave spectra of molecules of astrophysical interest. XIX. methyl cyanide
Authors: Boucher D. , Burie J. , Bauer A. , Dubrulle A. , Demaison J.
Published: June 2010

The microwave spectrum of methyl cyanide is critically reviewed for information applicable to radio-astronomy. Molecular data such as the derived rotational constants, centrifugal distortion parameters, hyperfine coupling constants, electric dipole moment and molecular structure are tabulated. The observed rotational transitions are presented for the astronomically interesting isotopic forms and the lowest lying vibrational state of methyl cyanide. Calculated rotational transitions are presented for the ground vibrational state of 12CH312C14N, 13CH312C14N, 12CH313C14N, 12CH312C15N, and for the vibrationally excited state ν8 of 12CH312C14N.
A review, evaluation, and correlation of the phase equilibria, heat of mixing, and change in volume on mixing for liquid mixtures of methane + propane
Authors: Miller R. C. , Kidnay A. J. , Hiza M. J.
Published: June 2010

The available experimental data for liquid-vapor equilibria, heat of mixing, and change in volume on mixing for the methane + propane system have been reviewed and where possible evaluated for consistency. The derived properties chosen for analysis and correlation were liquid mixture excess Gibbs free energies, Henry’s constants, and K values. Data sets, selected on the basis of the consistency tests applied, were correlated as a function of temperature and composition to provide internally consistent sets of property values suitable for engineering design calculations.
Saturation states of heavy water
Authors: Hill P. G. , MacMillan R. D. Chris
Published: June 2010

A study has been made of the saturation properties of D2O from the triple point temperature to 325 °C, in the light of information on the saturation properties of H2O. Saturated liquid volumes have been determined by extrapolation to saturation pressure of relatively abundant liquid phase data (corrected to 100% D2O). Saturated liquid enthalpy has been determined by extrapolation of liquid phase specific heat data, and integration along the saturation line, allowing for the compressibility effect. Saturated vapor volumes have been determined by use of an extended virial equation formulated for H2O and corrected for D2O. Saturated vapor enthalpies have been determined by use of the Clapeyron equation, and compared to vapor enthalpies calculated from the extended virial equation. Saturated liquid and vapor volumes have been extrapolated to the critical temperature to allow an inference of the critical density.
Compilation and Evaluation of Solubility Data in the Mercury (I) Chloride-Water System
Authors: Marcus Y.
Published: June 2010

The more than one dozen papers dealing with the solubility of mercury (1) chloride in water or in aqueous chloride solutions have been compiled in the format set by the IUPAC Solubility Data Project, and have been evaluated. Mercury (I) chloride dissolves in water, forming the following species: He(OH)2, HgCl2, HgOH+, HgOH+, HgCl+, Hg2+2, and Hg2OH− in addition to H+ and Cl−. In excess chloride solutions it dissolves to give, mainly, HgCl−3 and HgCl2−4. Thus, many homogeneous equilibria have to be considered beside the two heterogeneous ones; Hg2Cl2(s)=Hg2+2(aq)+2Cl−(aq) and Hg2+2(aq)=Hg2+(aq)+ Hg(l), of which K°s0 and (K°r)−1, respectively, are the equilibrium constants. The papers in which the total solubility (sum of all the mercury containing aqueous species) and the solubility product (derived from e.m.f. data) are reported do not give as accurate and reliable quantities as are obtained from the appropriate standard electrode potentials. The following values are recommended as valid at 298.15 K: log (K°s0/mol2kg−2=−17.844±0.017, d log (K°s0/mol2kg−2)/dT?0.0002)−(6.0±0.4)×10 −1 (T/K−2.98.15), ΔG°s0=101.86±0.10 kJ mol−1, ΔS°s0=−12.7±0.9 JK−1 mol −1. ΔH°s0 =98.08±0.18 kJ mol−1, ΔC°p,s0=−0.36±0.04 JK−1 mol−1 (this item, tentatively), and cHg?1.6)×10−6 mol dm−3 (the total aqueous solubility).
Molten Salts: Vol. 5, Part 1, Additional Single and Multi-Component Salt Systems. Electrical Conductance, Density, Viscosity, and Surface Tension Data
Authors: Janz G. J. , Tomkins R. P. T.
Published: June 2010

Data on the electrical conductance, density, and surface tension of more than ninety additional multi-component salt systems have been systematically collected and evaluated. Results are given for mixtures over a range of compositions and temperatures. Values of the above properties for some sixty single salt systems are also reported.
High-temperature environments of human evolution in East Africa based on bond ordering in paleosol carbonates
Authors: Passey Benjamin H. , Levin Naomi E. , Cerling Thure E. , Brown Francis H. , Eiler John M.
Published: June 2010

Many important hominid-bearing fossil localities in East Africa are in regions that are extremely hot and dry. Although humans are well adapted to such conditions, it has been inferred that East African environments were cooler or more wooded during the Pliocene and Pleistocene when this region was a central stage of human evolution. Here we show that the Turkana Basin, Kenya—today one of the hottest places on Earth—has been continually hot during the past 4 million years. The distribution of
13
C-
18
O bonds in paleosol carbonates indicates that soil temperatures during periods of carbonate formation were typically above 30 °C and often in excess of 35 °C. Similar soil temperatures are observed today in the Turkana Basin and reflect high air temperatures combined with solar heating of the soil surface. These results are specific to periods of soil carbonate formation, and we suggest that such periods composed a large fraction of integrated time in the Turkana Basin. If correct, this interpretation has implications for human thermophysiology and implies a long-standing human association with marginal environments.
Fake capitalism? The dynamics of neoliberal moral restructuring and pseudo-development: the case of Uganda
Authors: Wiegratz Jörg
Published: June 2010

Uganda is regarded as the African country that has adopted the neoliberal reform package most extensively. Notably, neoliberal reforms have targeted the reshaping not only of the economy but also of the society and culture. The reforms aim to create a ‘market society’, which includes a corresponding set of moral norms and behaviour. Reforms, therefore, have to undermine, overwrite and displace pre-existing non-neoliberal norms, values, orientations and practices among the population; they also have to foster norms, values, orientations and practices that are in line with neoliberal ideology. This article looks at the process of neoliberal moral restructuring in Uganda since 1986. Extensive interviews in Kampala and eastern Uganda reveal that the cultural dimension of rapid neoliberal reform has negatively affected the relationships and trade practices between smallholder farmers and traders in rural markets. Since the onset of liberal economic reforms, face-to-face rural trade practices have been characterised by higher levels of ‘malpractice’ and a change in their form. Neoliberal Uganda is furthermore characterised by a spread of destructive norms and practices in other economic sectors and sections of society that have been ‘modernised’ according to neoliberal prescriptions. Many respondents invoked ideas such as ‘moral degeneration’, ‘moral decay’, a ‘rotten society’ and ‘kiwaani’ (the title of a popular song, used interchangeably with deceit, tricking, or fake to describe behaviours and objects) and were worried about the future of moral norms and business practices in the country. The changes and trends described in this paper seem difficult but not impossible to reverse.
Temporal Preparation Decreases Perceptual Latency: Evidence from a Clock Paradigm
Authors: Seifried Tanja , Ulrich Rolf , Bausenhart Karin M. , Rolke Bettina , Osman Allen
Published: June 2010

A clock paradigm was employed to assess whether temporal preparation decreases the time to detect the onset of a stimulus—that is, perceptual latency. In four experiments participants watched a revolving clock hand while listening to soft or loud target tones under high or low temporal preparation. At the end of each trial, participants reported the clock hand position at the onset of the target tone. The deviation of the reported clock hand position from the actual position indexed perceptual latency. As expected, perceptual latency decreased with target tone intensity. Most importantly, however, greater temporal preparation decreased perceptual latency in all four experiments, especially for soft tones, which supports rather directly the idea that temporal preparation diminishes the duration of perceptual processing.
Intermittent divertor filaments in the National Spherical Torus Experiment and their relation to midplane blobs
Authors: Maqueda R.J. , Stotler D.P.
Published: June 2010

While intermittent filamentary structures, also known as blobs, are routinely seen in the low-field-side scrape-off layer of the National Spherical Torus Experiment (NSTX) (Ono et al
2000 Nucl. Fusion
40 557), fine structured filaments are also seen on the lower divertor target plates of NSTX. These filaments, not associated with edge localized modes, correspond to the interaction of the turbulent blobs seen near the midplane with the divertor plasma facing components. The fluctuation level of the neutral lithium light observed at the divertor, and the skewness and kurtosis of its probability distribution function, is similar to that of midplane blobs seen in Dα; e.g. increasing with increasing radii outside the outer strike point (OSP) (separatrix). In addition, their toroidal and radial movement agrees with the typical movement of midplane blobs. Furthermore, with the appropriate magnetic topology, i.e. mapping between the portion of the target plates being observed into the field of view of the midplane gas puff imaging diagnostic, very good correlation is observed between the blobs and the divertor filaments. The correlation between divertor plate filaments and midplane blobs is lost close to the OSP. This latter observation is consistent with the existence of ‘magnetic shear disconnection’ due to the lower X-point, as proposed by Cohen and Ryutov (1997 Nucl. Fusion
37 621).
A continuous hockey stick stock–recruit model for estimating MSY reference points
Authors: Mesnil Benoit , Rochet Marie-Joëlle
Published: June 2010

Mesnil, B., and Rochet, M-J. 2010. A continuous hockey stick stock–recruit model for estimating MSY reference points. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 67: 1780–1784. With political commitment to restore stocks to levels where they can produce maximum sustainable yield (MSY), fisheries managers request evaluation of management plans that include options for an FMSY policy. The procedure to estimate FMSY with dynamic-pool, stock assessment models is well established for common stock–recruitment relationships (S–RR), and this capacity is extended to another S–RR, a piecewise function known as the hockey stick (HS), which is frequently assumed when the data do not support more elaborate functions. However, the HS is not continuous, which makes it problematic for this application, where differentiable functions are required. The bent-hyperbola model proves to be an adequate continuous equivalent to the HS for estimating FMSY.
The status of fish conservation in South African estuaries
Authors: Whitfield A. K. , Cowley P. D.
Published: June 2010

Estuary‐dependent fish species are defined as those taxa whose populations would be adversely affected by the loss of estuarine habitats. Of the 155 species regularly recorded in South African estuaries, only 32 (21%) are completely dependent on these systems, but this figure increases to 103 species (66%) if partially dependent taxa are included in the analysis. The conservation of fishes in estuaries on the subcontinent is threatened by a number of factors, including habitat degradation, disruption of essential ecological processes, hydrological manipulations, environmental pollution, overexploitation due to fishing activities and, more recently, climate change and the effects of introduced aquatic animals. Although major threats to fishes are usually linked to environmental degradation, there is increasing evidence that the stocks of certain fish species are overexploited or collapsed. Fish conservation and fisheries management does not depend on the implementation of a single action, but rather the co‐ordination of a detailed plan, often in a multidisciplinary context. Some examples of innovative means of contributing to estuarine fish conservation in a South African context include the determination and implementation of the ecological freshwater requirements for estuaries, the zoning of estuaries for different uses and the recognition that the maintenance of ecological processes are vital to aquatic ecosystem health. Apart from the designation of protected areas, the main direct means of conserving fish species and stocks include habitat conservation, controls over fishing methods, effort, efficiency and seasonality, pollution control and the prevention of artificial manipulation of estuary mouths. Since becoming a democracy in 1994, environmental legislation, policy and institutional arrangements in South Africa have undergone some major changes, which, if fully implemented, will be very positive for fish conservation in estuaries on the subcontinent.
The status of chondrichthyan conservation in the Indo‐Australasian region
Authors: White W. T. , Kyne P. M.
Published: June 2010

The status of chondrichthyan (sharks, batoids and chimaeras) conservation in the Indo‐Australasian region is examined, and issues relevant to the conservation of this fauna at the subregional level [Australia, Indonesia (excluding West Papua), New Guinea (West Papua and Papua New Guinea), New Caledonia and New Zealand] are discussed. According to the 2009 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, c. 21% of Indo‐Australasian chondrichthyans are classified as threatened (critically endangered, endangered and vulnerable) and c. 40% are of conservation concern (threatened and near threatened). The proportion of threatened species is highest in New Guinea (c. 39%) and Indonesia (c. 35%) and least in New Zealand (c. 11%). In New Guinea, three quarters of the species are of conservation concern; in Indonesia, nearly two thirds are of conservation concern. Within the region, the proportion of threatened batoids (c. 29%) is higher than threatened sharks (c. 17%), while there are no threatened chimaeras. Conservation status is discussed at the order (for sharks), suborder (for batoids) and family level. Issues relating to the conservation status of chondrichthyans vary greatly between each subregion, but they mostly relate to targeted or incidental capture in fisheries. A handful of sharks and batoids are protected within Australian waters, while one species is protected in New Zealand. Both Australia and New Zealand have developed National Plans of Action for the Conservation and Management of Sharks (NPOA‐Sharks), but these are lacking elsewhere. Development and implementation of NPOA‐Sharks are a priority in order to drive the conservation of the regional fauna. Sustainable fisheries management (including by‐catch), confronting the challenge of illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, species protection where appropriate and marine protected areas (MPA) are all likely to prove vital in ensuring the long‐term conservation of Indo‐Australasian sharks, batoids and chimaeras.
Fish and aquatic habitat conservation in South America: a continental overview with emphasis on neotropical systems
Authors: Barletta M. , Jaureguizar A. J. , Baigun C. , Fontoura N. F. , Agostinho A. A. , Almeida‐Val V. M. F. , Val A. L. , Torres R. A. , Jimenes‐Segura L. F. , Giarrizzo T. , Fabré N. N. , Batista V. S. , Lasso C. , Taphorn D. C. , Costa M. F. , Chaves P. T. , Vieira J. P. , Corrêa M. F. M.
Published: June 2010

Fish conservation in South America is a pressing issue. The biodiversity of fishes, just as with all other groups of plants and animals, is far from fully known. Continuing habitat loss may result in biodiversity losses before full species diversity is known. In this review, the main river basins of South America (Magdalena, Orinoco, Amazon and Paraná–La Plata system), together with key aquatic habitats (mangrove‐fringed estuaries of the tropical humid, tropical semi‐arid and subtropical regions) are analysed in terms of their characteristics and main concerns. Habitat loss was the main concern identified for all South American ecosystems. It may be caused by damming of rivers, deforestation, water pollution, mining, poor agricultural practice or inadequate management practice. Habitat loss has a direct consequence, which is a decrease in the availability of living resources, a serious social and economic issue, especially for South American nations which are all developing countries. The introduction of exotic species and overfishing were also identified as widespread across the continent and its main freshwater, coastal and marine ecosystems. Finally, suggestions are made to find ways to overcome these problems. The main suggestion is a change of paradigm and a new design for conservation actions, starting with integrated research and aiming at the co‐ordinated and harmonized management of the main transboundary waters of the continent. The actions would be focused on habitat conservation and social rescue of the less well‐off populations of indigenous and non‐indigenous peoples. Energy and freshwater demands will also have to be rescaled in order to control habitat loss.
Trough plasma concentration of imatinib reflects BCR–ABL kinase inhibitory activity and clinical response in chronic‐phase chronic myeloid leukemia: A report from the BINGO study
Authors: Ishikawa Yuichi , Kiyoi Hitoshi , Watanabe Keisuke , Miyamura Koichi , Nakano Yasuyuki , Kitamura Kunio , Kohno Akio , Sugiura Isamu , Yokozawa Toshiya , Hanamura Akitoshi , Yamamoto Kazuhito , Iida Hiroatsu , Emi Nobuhiko , Suzuki Ritsuro , Ohnishi Kazunori , Naoe Tomoki
Published: June 2010

Pharmacokinetic (PK) factors have been suggested to be involved in the unfavorable clinical responses of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) patients treated with imatinib. The purpose of this study was to clarify prognostic implications of PK factors in CML patients treated with imatinib. The plasma trough (Cmin) level of imatinib and serum α1‐acid glycoprotein (AGP) level were measured on two different days in 65 CML patients treated with imatinib for more than 12 months. We further examined whether the Cmin level of imatinib actually reflects inhibitory activity against BCR–ABL kinase using the plasma inhibitory activity (PIA) assay. Since the differences of five patients were statistically rejected by the Smirnov–Grubbs’ test, we excluded them for further analysis. The Cmin level was strongly associated with the achievement of MMR at the 12th month, and ROC analysis demonstrated Cmin levels and their discrimination potential for major molecular response (MMR) with the best sensitivity (63.2%) and specificity (68.2%) at a Cmin threshold of 974 ng/mL. The α1‐Acid glycoprotein (AGP) level was within the normal range in 57 of 60 patients, indicating little impact of AGP on our study. There was a weak correlation between PIA against phospho (P)‐BCR–ABL and the Cmin level of imatinib (r2 = 0.2501, P = 0.0007), and patient plasma containing >974 ng/mL imatinib sufficiently inhibited P‐BCR‐ABL. These results collectively indicated that maintaining ∼1000 ng/mL of Cmin was clinically and biologically important for the optimal response in CML patients treated with imatinib. A prospective intervention study is required to establish PK‐based management in CML patients treated with imatinib. (Cancer Sci 2010)
Gender differences in indoor allergen exposure and association with current rhinitis
Authors: Bertelsen R. J. , Instanes C. , Granum B. , Lødrup Carlsen K. C. , Hetland G. , Carlsen K.‐H. , Mowinckel P. , Løvik M.
Published: June 2010

Background
Differences between boys and girls in allergic manifestations are well known, and this difference is possibly not attributed to physiological differences alone.

Objective
We, therefore, investigated whether boys and girls could be exposed to different allergen levels at home and whether indoor allergen levels could be differently associated with rhinitis in boys and girls at 10 years of age.

Methods
Cat, dog and house dust mite (HDM) allergen levels in mattress dust and interview data regarding current allergic disease were available for 797 10‐year‐old children (360 girls) in The Environment and Childhood Asthma Study in Oslo.

Results
Girls had higher concentrations of cat and dog allergens in their mattresses compared with boys, also in homes without cats [geometric mean 95% confidence intervals (95% CI): 0.37 (0.31, 0.44) for girls and 0.26 (0.23, 0.30) μg cat allergen/g dust for boys, P=0.002], and without dogs [girls: 0.74 (0.63, 0.86) and boys: 0.55 (0.48, 0.62) μg dog allergen/g dust, P=0.003]. No difference was observed for HDM allergen (Der p 1) levels. Of the 190 (23.8%) children reporting current rhinitis, 144 (75.8%) were sensitized to at least one allergen. The adjusted odds ratio for current rhinitis increased with 1.20 (95% CI: 1.01, 1.42) per 1 μg/g dust increase in Der p 1 for girls (P=0.037), but not for boys (P=0.91).

Conclusion
Girls had higher levels of cat and dog allergens in mattress dust compared with boys, whereas no difference was observed for Der p 1 allergen. Nevertheless, only increasing levels of Der p 1 and not cat and dog allergens significantly increased the risk of current rhinitis in girls, whereas no significant association was observed for boys.

Cite this as: R. J. Bertelsen, C. Instanes, B. Granum, K. C. Lø;drup Carlsen, G. Hetland, K.‐H. Carlsen, P. Mowinckel and M. Løvik, Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2010 (40) 1388–1397.
Association of NKG2A with treatment for chronic hepatitis C virus infection
Authors: Harrison R J , Ettorre A , Little A-M , Khakoo S I
Published: June 2010

Natural killer (NK) cells are critical to the immune response to viral infections. Their functions are controlled by receptors for major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I, including NKG2A and killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR). In order to evaluate the role of MHC class I receptors in the immune response to hepatitis C virus infection we have studied patients with chronic HCV infection by multi-parameter flow cytometry directly ex vivo. This has permitted evaluation of combinatorial expression of activating and inhibitory receptors on single NK cells. Individuals with chronic HCV infection had fewer CD56dim NK cells than healthy controls (4·9 ± 3·4% versus 9·0 ± 5·9%, P < 0·05). Expression levels of the inhibitory receptor NKG2A was up-regulated on NK cells from individuals with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) (NKG2A mean fluorescence intensity 5692 ± 2032 versus 4525 ± 1646, P < 0·05). Twelve individuals were treated with pegylated interferon and ribavirin. This resulted in a down-regulation of NKG2A expression on CD56dim NK cells. Individuals with a sustained virological response (SVR) had greater numbers of NKG2A-positive, KIR-negative NK cells than those without SVR (27·6 ± 9·6% NK cells versus 17·6 ± 5·7, P < 0·02). Our data show that NKG2A expression is dysregulated in chronic HCV infection and that NKG2A-positive NK cells are associated with a beneficial response to pegylated interferon and ribavirin therapy.
Genetic aspects of the Paget’s disease of bone: concerns on the introduction of DNA‐based tests in the clinical practice. Advantages and disadvantages of its application
Authors: Alberto Falchetti , Francesca Marini , Laura Masi , Antonietta Amedei , Luisa Brandi Maria
Published: June 2010

Eur J Clin Invest 2010; 40 (7): 655–667

Background  A large amount of genetic studies have clearly demonstrated the existence of a genetic susceptibility to Paget’s disease of bone (PDB). Although the disease is genetically heterogeneous, the SQSTM1/p62 gene, encoding a protein with a pathophysiological role in both osteoclast differentiation and activity, has been found worldwide to harbour germline mutations in most of the PDB patients from geographically distant populations originating from different areas of Europe, both in sporadic and familial cases.

Materials and Methods  Thus, SQSTM1/p62 gene mutations may confer an increased lifetime risk of developing PDB.

Results  Several different genotype‐phenotype analyses have shown a high penetrance for such mutations. These results suggest the opportunity to perform genetic testing in affected individuals and then, after the identification of a SQSTM1/p62 gene germline mutation, in their relatives as a real and concrete strategy to increase the diagnostic sensitivity in most of the asymptomatic mutant carriers. However, it is of note to underlie that an incomplete penetrance for SQSTM1/p62 gene mutations has also been reported.

Conclusions  In light of all these contradictory evidences, a review on whether, when and why apply the DNA test to those subjects, its interpretation and clinical application is necessary. In fact, a growing number of preventive care options are now available to affected patients and families and the process of systematically assessing risk is becoming increasingly important for both patients and physicians.
Differences in stable isotope ratios of Dall’s porpoises (Phocoenoides dalli) between coastal and oceanic areas of the North Pacific
Authors: OHIZUMI HIROSHI , MIYAZAKI NOBUYUKI
Published: June 2010

Carbon and nitrogen stable isotope ratios in the muscle of Dall’s porpoises were measured. Samples were collected from the catches of the hand harpoon fishery, incidental catches of drift net, and scientific research on the use of drift nets. Samples were from the North Pacific, Sea of Japan, Sea of Okhotsk, and Bering Sea. Although no variation in δ15N was observed, δ13C was significantly different between population groups near Japan and the oceanic North Pacific and Bering Sea. The difference may be due not only to local variation in prey species, but also to an overall difference in carbon stable isotope ratios that originate from coastal benthic or oceanic pelagic‐based food webs. We differentiated Dall’s porpoise population groups from both areas using carbon stable isotope ratios with an error rate of <5%. Although further study is needed, our results suggest that carbon stable isotope ratios could possibly be an indicator of whether a Dall’s porpoise belongs to a coastal benthic or oceanic pelagic food web.
Hydrological connectivity for riverine fish: measurement challenges and research opportunities
Authors: FULLERTON A. H. , BURNETT K. M. , STEEL E. A. , FLITCROFT R. L. , PESS G. R. , FEIST B. E. , TORGERSEN C. E. , MILLER D. J. , SANDERSON B.L.
Published: June 2010

1. In this review, we first summarize how hydrologic connectivity has been studied for riverine fish capable of moving long distances, and then identify research opportunities that have clear conservation significance. Migratory species, such as anadromous salmonids, are good model organisms for understanding ecological connectivity in rivers because the spatial scale over which movements occur among freshwater habitats is large enough to be easily observed with available techniques; they are often economically or culturally valuable with habitats that can be easily fragmented by human activities; and they integrate landscape conditions from multiple surrounding catchment(s) with in‐river conditions. Studies have focussed on three themes: (i) relatively stable connections (connections controlled by processes that act over broad spatio‐temporal scales >1000 km2and >100 years); (ii) dynamic connections (connections controlled by processes acting over fine to moderate spatio‐temporal scales ∼1–1000 km2and <1–100 years); and (iii) anthropogenic influences on hydrologic connectivity, including actions that disrupt or enhance natural connections experienced by fish.

2. We outline eight challenges to understanding the role of connectivity in riverine fish ecology, organized under three foci: (i) addressing the constraints of river structure; (ii) embracing temporal complexity in hydrologic connectivity; and (iii) managing connectivity for riverine fishes. Challenges include the spatial structure of stream networks, the force and direction of flow, scale‐dependence of connectivity, shifting boundaries, complexity of behaviour and life histories and quantifying anthropogenic influence on connectivity and aligning management goals. As we discuss each challenge, we summarize relevant approaches in the literature and provide additional suggestions for improving research and management of connectivity for riverine fishes.

3. Specifically, we suggest that rapid advances are possible in the following arenas: (i) incorporating network structure and river discharge into analyses; (ii) increasing explicit consideration of temporal complexity and fish behaviour in the scope of analyses; and (iii) parsing degrees of human and natural influences on connectivity and defining acceptable alterations. Multiscale analyses are most likely to identify dominant patterns of connections and disconnections, and the appropriate scale at which to focus conservation activities.
Effect of food concentration on the production and viability of resting eggs of the rotiferBrachionus: implications for the timing of sexual reproduction
Authors: GILBERT JOHN J.
Published: June 2010

1. Life‐table experiments withBrachionus calyciflorustest several hypotheses related to the idea that sexual reproduction in monogonont rotifers should occur when food resources are favourable.

2. The food concentration necessary for a fertilised mictic female to produce one phenotypically normal resting egg was higher than that for an amictic female to produce one daughter. At the lowest concentration ofCryptomonas erosa(1.25 × 103 cells mL−1), the lifetime fecundity of these two types of females was 0.9 and 1.4, respectively.

3. The lifetime fecundity of both fertilised mictic females and amictic females increased with food concentration to 3.4 resting eggs and 15.2 daughters female−1, respectively. The approach to maximal fecundity with increasing food concentration was more rapid for fertilised mictic females, such that their lifetime fecundity relative to that of amictic females gradually decreased from 0.64 (at 1.25 × 103 C. erosa mL−1) to 0.22 (at 2.5 × 104 C. erosa mL−1).

4. The probability of a fertilised mictic female producing one or more abnormal resting eggs during her lifetime was high (approximately 75%). The mean proportion of abnormal eggs produced per female varied among the different food‐concentration treatments (26–38%) but was not higher at the low food concentrations.

5. The proportion of normal resting eggs that hatched was high (51–71%); those produced at low food concentrations were no less likely to hatch than those produced at high food concentrations. No abnormal resting eggs hatched.

6. The probability of a fertilised mictic female producing an abnormal resting egg increased rapidly with her age at all food concentrations. The probability of a normal resting egg hatching declined with maternal age at the low food concentration in one of two experiments.

7. The results support the idea that induction of mictic females should occur when food resources are good. Coincidence of sexual reproduction with low food availability risks low production of resting eggs for several reasons. Population size may be small, with a low probability of encounters between young mictic females and males, and fertilised mictic females may be unable to mature and produce resting eggs.