bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IL-23 Inhibits Melanoma Development by Augmenting DNA Repair and Modulating T Cell Subpopulations
Authors: Nasti Tahseen H. , Cochran J. Barry , Vachhani Raj V. , McKay Kristopher , Tsuruta Yuko , Athar Mohammad , Timares Laura , Elmets Craig A.
Published: December 2016

In animal models, IL-12 and IL-23 participate in the development of malignant neoplasms of keratinocytes. However, the role of these cytokines in pigmented lesion development and their progression to melanoma has received little attention. IL-12p35, IL-23p19, and IL-12/IL-23p40 knockout mice on a C3H/HeN background, subjected to a melanomagenesis protocol, demonstrated profound differences in susceptibility to nevus initiation, transformation, tumorigenicity, and metastatic potential. IL-23 was found to be essential for melanocyte homeostasis, whereas IL-12 supported nevus development. A direct action of IL-23 on primary melanocytes, shown to be IL-23R+, demonstrated that DNA repair of damaged melanocytes requires IL-23. Furthermore, IL-23 modulated the cutaneous microenvironment by limiting regulatory T cells and IFN-γ and inhibiting IL-10 production. Neutralizing Ab to IFN-γ, but not IL-17, inhibited nevus development (p < 0.01).
Key Residues at Third CDR3β Position Impact Structure and Antigen Recognition of Human Invariant NK TCRs
Authors: Chamoto Kenji , Guo Tingxi , Scally Stephen W. , Kagoya Yuki , Ancruzowski Mark , Wang Chung-Hsi , Rahman Muhammed A. , Saso Kayoko , Butler Marcus O. , Chiu Priscilla P. L. , Julien Jean-Philippe , Hirano Naoto
Published: December 2016

The human invariant NK (iNK) TCR is largely composed of the invariant TCR Vα24-Jα18 chain and semivariant TCR Vβ11 chains with variable CDR3β sequences. The direct role of CDR3β in Ag recognition has been studied extensively. Although it was noted that CDR3β can interact with CDR3α, how this interaction might indirectly influence Ag recognition is not fully elucidated. We observed that the third position of Vβ11 CDR3 can encode an Arg or Ser residue as a result of somatic rearrangement. Clonotypic analysis of the two iNK TCR types with a single amino acid substitution revealed that the staining intensity by anti-Vα24 Abs depends on whether Ser or Arg is encoded. When stained with an anti–Vα24-Jα18 Ab, human primary invariant NKT cells could be divided into Vα24 low- and high-intensity subsets, and Arg-encoding TCR Vβ11 chains were more frequently isolated from the Vα24 low-intensity subpopulation compared with the Vα24 high-intensity subpopulation. The Arg/Ser substitution also influenced Ag recognition as determined by CD1d multimer staining and CD1d-restricted functional responses. Importantly, in silico modeling validated that this Ser-to-Arg mutation could alter the structure of the CDR3β loop, as well as the CDR3α loop. Collectively, these results indicate that the Arg/Ser encoded at the third CDR3β residue can effectively modulate the overall structure of, and Ag recognition by, human iNK TCRs.
Advanced gastric cancer: new perspectives of treatment
Authors: Nardi Matteo , Ansaloni Luca , Montori Giulia , Ceresoli Marco , Crescentini Giacomo , Palini Gian Marco , Paratore Filippo , Trevisan Mattia , Zanini Nicola , Morganti Lucia , Coccolini Federico
Published: December 2016

The prognosis in patients with advanced gastric cancer with carcinosis remains poor with a median survival of less than one year. High rates of peritoneal recurrence of patients undergoing resection with potentially curative intent are strictly related with lymphatic spread and penetration of the serosa. To increase survival rates, during the last thirty years different strategies about screening and treatment have been tested and proposed. Early detection of occult peritoneal micrometastasis is a base step to reduce local and serosa recurrences and to offer a tailored surgical and neoadjuvant therapeutic treatment. The complete cytoreductive surgery, however, remains the cornerstone of treatment. It could be associated with different combinations of chemotherapy regimens. Adjuvant, neoadjuvant and intraperitoneal chemotherapy have been demonstrated effective in improving the survival. In the last years, a few new molecules have been introduced which enhance the effect of chemotherapy by biologically targeting its objective. Lastly the prevention of macroscopic peritoneal carcinosis in all those patients at high risk due to serosal infiltration by treating them with intraperitoneal chemotherapy has been demonstrated to be one of the future winning approaches. In patients with peritoneal carcionosis, multimodal comprehensive treatment should be mandatory, with a pivotal role of intraperitoneal chemotherapy associate to CC0 cytoreduction. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by cytoreductive surgery and intraperitoneal chemotherapy gave promising results. The new molecules as monoclonal antibodies seem to improve outcomes.
Assessment of Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis infections in women undergoing laparoscopy: the role of peritoneal fluid sampling
Authors: Dragic Miroslav , Posteraro Patrizia , Marani Carla , Natale Maria Emanuela , Vecchioni Alessia , Sanguinetti Maurizio , De Waure Chiara , Posteraro Brunella
Published: December 2016

Background. Aim of this study was to assess the role of peritoneal fluid sampling for detection of bacterial infections due to Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG), and Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MT) in women undergoing laparoscopic investigation. The potential link between microbiological positive result(s) and types of gynecological pathology was also evaluated.
Materials and Methods. A large sample of women (n=1377) with their peritoneal fluids taken laparoscopically was studied. Data of microbiological and clinical/histopathological findings were entered into a database from a retrospective chart review. Culture and/or microscopy were used to detect NG or MT infection, whereas CT infection was detected using a PCR-based test.
Results and Conclusions. Of all the patients (14 to 50 years aged), 463 (33.6%) had endometriosis, 1179 (85.6%) had a pathology/condition other than endometriosis, and 71 (5.2%) had no pathology as histologically documented. None of the patients had peritoneal fluid samples positive for NG or MT. In contrast, 30 (2.2%) of 1377 patients had peritoneal fluid samples positive for CT. Except for 3 women with no histopathological alteration, all the CT positive patients had either endometriosis (n=12) or non-endometriosis (n=13) pathology. Two remaining patients were diagnosed with both the pathologies. Accordingly, no significant association (OR) was found between CT positivity and pathology [only endometriosis, 1.13 (95%CI, 0.30-4.20)]; [only non-endometriosis, 0.53 (95%CI, 0.15-1.87)]. While confirming the low positivity rate for the CT molecular detection, the present data indicate the need for prospective studies to firmly establish the clinical usefulness of peritoneal fluid diagnostic in gynecological settings.
Evaluation of the in vitro activity of ceftobiprole against clinical isolates of Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Mauri Carola , Bracco Silvia , Meroni Elisa , Oggioni Davide , Principe Luigi , Pini Beatrice , Luzzaro Francesco
Published: December 2016

Background and aims: Ceftobiprole is a new cephalosporin characterized by a potent activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial pathogens. It is noting that ceftobiprole has a strong affinity for penicillin binding proteins including PBP 2A, which mediates resistance to beta-lactams in methicillin (oxacillin)-resistant coagulase- negative staphylococci and Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The aim of the current study was to examine the antimicrobial activity of ceftobiprole against clinical isolates of S. aureus recently collected at our institution.
Materials and methods: One hundred and forty blood isolates of S. aureus were evaluated, including methicillin-susceptible (MSSA, n=70) and MRSA (n=70) strains. Twenty additional MRSA isolates obtained from different sites (including skin and soft tissues, blood, and lower respiratory tract) and characterized by borderline susceptibility to vancomycin were also studied to assess the ability of ceftobiprole to overcome this worrisome trait. MIC values of ceftobiprole were determined by Etest strips and results were interpreted according to EUCAST guidelines.
Results and conclusions: Study isolates were consistently susceptible to ceftobiprole, with MIC values ranging from 0.125 mg/L to 2 mg/L. Overall, MIC50 and MIC90 were 0.25 mg/L and 0.5 mg/L, respectively. Ceftobiprole showed in vitro activity against all S. aureus isolates, with small differences among groups selected on the basis of resistance to methicillin and/or reduced susceptibility to vancomycin. Thus, ceftobiprole appears a valid choice for treating infections caused by S. aureus, even when susceptibility results are not yet available. Additionally, ceftobiprole may be a valid option in the case of reduced susceptibility to vancomycin.
Report of a rare case of sepsis caused by Bacillus pumilus in an immunocompetent child with the involvement of soft tissues cellulitis
Authors: Clemente Libera , Dragovic Dana , Milocco Cristina , Fontana Francesco
Published: December 2016

Bacillus pumilus is an environmental contaminant, rarely associated with human diseases. In this report we describe a case of a severe sepsis caused by B. pumilus in a 7-year-old healthy child. The microorganism has been isolated from two blood cultures and has been identified using both biochemical tests and mass spectrometry. The patient fully recovered after an ampicillin treatment.
Operative cystoscopy in the neonatal period
Authors: Arena Salvatore , Russo Tiziana , Perrone Patrizia , Romeo Carmelo
Published: December 2016

Aim of the study is to report the experience in the last three years about endourological treatment of newborns affected by genito- and urinary malformation, implying critical urinary tract dilatation and bladder mass requiring a neonatal operative management. Seven – four males and three female – patients were treated cystoscopically during the neonatal period. Three newborns with a posterior urethral valves (PUV), underwent a successful ablation of PUV. In a male with infected persistent large mullerian duct and subsequent acute urinary retention, a cystoscopically-assisted catheterization was performed. Two females, one with cloaca and the other with high persistent urogenital sinus and massive associated hydrometrocolpos underwent a cystoscopical drainage of the vagina and a positioning of a balloon catheter into the bladder. Another female with a bladder mass had a endoscopical biopsy. Thanks to modern neonatal operative urethrocystoscope, today is possible to treat early many pathological genito-urinary conditions in newborns.
The Tri-Territorial Bedrock Knowledge Entry Tool (KET)
Authors: Paul D , Brodaric B , St-Onge M R , Harrison J
C , Tella S , Julien H P , Zhao P
Published: December 2016

The Tri-Territorial (Tri-T) Bedrock Knowledge Entry Tool (KET) is a data entry tool that comprises the first step in a workflow to capture, validate and populate the Tri-Territorial Bedrock Database, a repository of geological map information for the Canadian
Arctic, north of 60 degrees. As an XML based form, the KET was developed to provide a comprehensive, user-friendly tool for parsing complex geological relationships and concepts from published geological maps and supplementary geoscience publications. To maintain consistency between the Tri-T
database and KET, an integrated and internally consistent science language was developed based on government and international standards. Once loaded into the database, the depth of attribution and hierarchical classification of map units captured through the KET enable complex queries and
re-classification of units internal to a specific map and across all maps in the Tri-T Bedrock database. This report describes the design, rationale and functionality of the KET as an important component towards building a new compilation of the geology of the Canadian
North.
Stabilization for Iwasawa modules in $\mathbb Z_p$-extensions
Authors: Bandini Andrea , Caldarola Fabio
Published: December 2016

Let

K/k

be a

\mathbb Z_p

-extension of a number field

k

with layers

k_n

. Let

i_{n,m}

be the map induced by inclusion between the

p

-parts of the class groups of

k_n

and

k_m

(

m \geqslant n

). We study the capitulation kernels

H_{n,m}:=\mathrm {ker} (i_{n,m})

and

H_n:=\bigcup_{m \geqslant n}H_{n,m}

to give some explicit formulas for their size and prove stabilization properties for their orders and

p

-ranks. We also briefly investigate stabilization properties for the cokernel of

i_{m,n}

and for the kernels of the norm maps and point out their relations with the nullity of the Iwasawa invariants for

K/k

.
A Study of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin in the Pathogenesis of Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy
Authors: Sahni Sonal
Published: December 2016

Objectives

The aim of our study was to observe the levels of serum beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) in cases of preeclampsia and eclampsia in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy and to compare it with the level of serum β-hCG in normotensive controls and also to find out if any correlation exists between the levels of β-hCG and the severity of the disease.

Materials and methods

A case—control study of 130 cases of pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH), out of which 100 were cases of preeclampsia and 30 were those of eclampsia, was conducted with 100 normotensive antenatal cases as controls. Patients admitted as preeclampsia or eclampsia were subjected for the study of β-hCG from 28 weeks onwards depending on the gestational age at the time of admission. Normotensive patients coming as outpatients were taken as controls and their β-hCG estimation was done.

Results

The β-hCG levels in hypertensive patients were found to be significantly higher than that of the controls. There was a significant correlation with the severity of the disease. A significant positive correlation was found with the systolic BP, diastolic BP, alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, and serum bilirubin whereas a significant inverse correlation was found with high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and platelet counts.

Conclusion

Beta-human chorionic gonadotropin rises significantly in the cases of PIH and the rise correlates with the severity of hypertension and the derangement of laboratory parameters. As it has a low sensitivity and specificity, it is not a very useful tool as a diagnostic or prognostic indicator for preeclampsia.

How to cite this article

Tiwari P, Saraogi P, Sahni S, Sahu B, Badkur P. A Study of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin in the Pathogenesis of Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2016;8(4):282-285.
Three-dimensional Transvaginal Ultrasound vs Office Hysteroscopy for Assessment of Uterine Cavity in Assisted Reproductive Program
Authors: Patel Ushma
Published: December 2016

Introduction

The success of an assisted reproductive program (ARP) depends on the embryo quality and the intrauterine environment. It has been reported up until now that abnormal uterine findings occur in nearly 34 to 62% of infertile women worldwide. Due to this reason, uterine cavity evaluation is commonly recommended to screen for fibroids, polyps, adhesions, and mullerian abnormalities. Uterine cavity evaluation is usually accomplished with three-dimensional (3D) transvaginal ultrasound (TVS), sonohysterography, hysterosalpingography, and office hysteroscopy (OH).

Materials and methods

Uterine cavity evaluation was carried out in 239 infertile females undergoing ARP with twodimensional (2D) followed by 3D vaginal ultrasonography on day 21 of their menstrual cycles. Later, OH was carried out on 5th or 6th day of menstrual cycles.

Results

Out of 239 women, 3D TVS was abnormal in 28 (11.71%) and OH was abnormal in 53 (22.17%). Three-dimensional TVS agreed with OH in 16 (30.18%) abnormal cases and 179 (93.71%) normal cases. False-positive results for 3D TVS were 12 (6.28%) and false-negative results were 37 (69.81%). In our study, sensitivity of 3D TVS was 30.1%, specificity was 93.7%, positive predictive value was 57.1%, and negative predictive value was 82.8%.

Conclusion

Office hysteroscopy is an easy and safe procedure and has a better diagnostic efficacy than 3D TVS for uterine cavity evaluation in women undergoing ARP.

How to cite this article

Mishra VV, Patel U, Gandhi K. Threedimensional Transvaginal Ultrasound vs Office Hysteroscopy for Assessment of Uterine Cavity in Assisted Reproductive Program. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2016;8(4):290-293.
Levels of Thyroid Hormones and Human Chorionic Gonadotropin in Normotensive Pregnant Women
Authors: Singh Akhilesh Kumar , Gautam Bechan Kumar
Published: December 2016

During pregnancy the hormonal changes take place, resulting in changes in thyroid functions. The present study was conducted to determine thyroid hormones and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in normotensive pregnancy. Fifty normotensive pregnant subjects were included in the study. Age-matched 50 nonpregnant subjects, not having any disease were taken as control. Total triiodothyronine (total T3), total thyroxine (total T4), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), and hCG were estimated by using enzyme amplified chemiluminescent immunoassay. The level of thyroid hormones was found significantly increased in normotensive pregnant subjects as compared to that of control group. We therefore conclude that investigations should be done routinely in pregnancy.

How to cite this article

Singh AK, Agrawal P, Gautam BK, Garg R. Levels of Thyroid Hormones and Human Chorionic Gonadotropin in Normotensive Pregnant Women. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2016;8(4):324-326.
Morbidly Adherent Placenta managed Conservatively: A Case Series
Authors: Gupta Ramiti , Singh Beant , Kaur Balwinder , Mohi Manjit K
Published: December 2016

Placenta accreta refers to any abnormally invasive placental implantation. Diagnosis is suspected postpartum with failed delivery of a retained placenta. Massive obstetrical hemorrhage is a known complication often requiring peripartum hysterectomy. We report a series of cases of placenta accreta in patients desiring future fertility who were managed conservatively.

How to cite this article

Kaur B, Mohi MK, Singh B, Gupta R. Morbidly Adherent Placenta managed conservatively: A Case Series. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2016;8(4):327-330.
Accuracy of Ultrasounds in the Diagnosis of Placenta Previa by Nonradiologists in Cameroon
Authors: Florent Fouelifack Y , Ohanda Patrick BA , Fouedjio Jeanne H , Fouogue Jovanny T , Fouelifa Loic D , Mbu Robinson E
Published: December 2016

Objectives

Ultrasound evaluation could ensure early diagnoses prior to the onset of clinical manifestations. The use of ultrasound as a diagnostic tool for varying disease states is gaining ground in Africa; however, its operator dependence constitutes a major setback. Our main goal was to evaluate the accuracy of ultrasound in the diagnosis of placenta previa (PP) in Cameroon, and especially its use by nonradiologists.

Materials and methods

We carried out a cross-sectional prospective study in the maternity unit of the Yaoundé Central Hospital during a period of 13 months (December 1, 2014 to December 31, 2015). Our study population involved women with prior cesarean section irrespective of the indication at least 28 weeks of gestational age. During surgery the diagnosis was confirmed. We included all women with a past history of cesarean section who underwent a 3rd trimester ultrasound scan (USS), especially in the last 4 weeks preceding the cesarean section.

Results

The mean age of our study population was 28.02 years (± 6.13 years), with age extremes at 13 and 44 years respectively. Out of 761 women who underwent cesarean section, 153 had been diagnosed preoperatively with PP. All the USSs were transabdominal. Third trimester scans irrespective of the operator had a sensitivity of 82, and 99% specificity. Among the operators, radiologists and obstetricians had the best sensitivity rates (83 and 81% respectively) as against 71.4% among other operators.

Conclusion

Ultrasound scanning is important in the antenatal period as a diagnostic tool for PP when carried out by radiologists and obstetricians. Routine use of the transvaginal and transperineal routes should be encouraged so as to gain in accuracy during 3rd trimester scanning. However, the nonradiologists need to be trained because of the accuracy lapses involving the USSs which they carry out.

How to cite this article

Florent FY, Ohanda PBA, Fouedjio JH, Fouogue JT, Fouelifa LD, Mbu RE. Accuracy of Ultrasounds in the Diagnosis of Placenta Previa by Nonradiologists in Cameroon. Donald School J Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2016;10(4):403-408.
Encephalocele: A Case Report at Yaoundé Central Hospital, Cameroon
Authors: Fouedjio Jeanne Hortence , Florent Fouelifack Y , Mbu Robinson E , Njotang Nana P
Published: December 2016

An encephalocele is characterized by congenital herniation of the brain tissue and/or meninges through a skull defect. The underlying cause is complex and not fully understood. The exact worldwide frequency is not known. Microcephaly with the presence of neural elements in the encephalocele is associated with poor prognosis. We report a case of a second twin premature baby born at 31 weeks gestation by cesarean section with an occipital encephalocele and died after 48 hours.

How to cite this article

Hortence FJ, Florent FY, Njotang NP, Mbu RE. Encephalocele: A Case Report at Yaoundé Central Hospital, Cameroon. Donald School J Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2016;10(4):413-414.
HDliveFlow with HDlive Silhouette Mode in Antenatal Diagnosis of Bilobed Placenta
Authors: Ishibashi Megumi , Yang Pei-Yin
Published: December 2016

We present a case of bilobed placenta diagnosed by HDliveFlow with the HDlive silhouette mode early in the 2nd trimester of pregnancy. A 29-year-old Japanese pregnant woman, gravida 4, para 1, was referred to our hospital based on the patient's wish at 23 weeks and 3 days of gestation. Two-dimensional (2D) sonography showed a single live fetus with biometry consistent with the gestational age. Moreover, two separated parts of the placenta were noted at the anterior and posterior uterine walls. HDliveFlow with the HDlive silhouette mode clearly depicted two lobes of the placenta (near equal size), and the main umbilical cord attached to the periphery of the anterior part of the placenta. One large connecting vessel between these two placental parts was also clearly identified. Bilobed placenta was strongly suggested. After birth, the gross specimen of the placenta confirmed the diagnosis. HDliveFlow with the HDlive silhouette mode may be an adjunctive tool to 2D sonography to diagnose abnormalities of the placenta in utero.

How to cite this article

Yang P-Y, Kanenishi K, Ishibashi M, Mori N, Hata T. HDliveFlow with HDlive Silhouette Mode in Antenatal Diagnosis of Bilobed Placenta. Donald School J Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2016;10(4):415-417.
Guidelines for the Doppler Assessment of the Umbilical and Middle Cerebral Arteries in Obstetrics
Authors: Zalud Ivica , Broady Autumn J
Published: December 2016

The use of Doppler ultrasound is an important tool in the obstetrical assessment of an at-risk fetus. Principles of the Doppler effect can be used to monitor placental and fetal blood flow in pregnancies complicated by fetal growth restriction or in the surveillance for fetal anemia from maternal alloimmunization. Indications and techniques for umbilical artery and middle cerebral artery Doppler assessment are reviewed.

How to cite this article

Broady A, Zalud I. Guidelines for the Doppler Assessment of the Umbilical and Middle Cerebral Arteries in Obstetrics. Donald School J Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2016;10(4):418-421.
Distribución espacial de las plantaciones forestales al sur de Chile, zona con presencia de una planta de celulosa
Authors: Vergara-Díaz Gastón , Sandoval-Vásquez Víctor A. , Herrera-Machuca Miguel A.
Published: December 2016

El incremento de las plantaciones forestales industriales en el sur de Chile y la alteración del paisaje, han sido una preocupación permanente para los investigadores. En este trabajo se utilizaron técnicas estadísticas espaciales para describir la composición de los patrones territoriales de las plantaciones forestales en una zona con presencia de una planta de celulosa y con alta demanda de especies exóticas como Pinus radiata y Eucalyptus. El software GeoDa se utilizó para calcular los índices de Moran global y local. Se utilizaron los datos de cobertura de uso del suelo y la superficie de los polígonos de plantaciones forestales actualizadas en el periodo 2006-2013. El índice de Moran global indica que la distribución de las plantaciones ocurre como un fenómeno aleatorio en todo el territorio. En su interior se observan distintas estructuras representadas por enclaves de grandes superficies, polígonos pequeños rodeados por otros de gran tamaño y polígonos grandes rodeados por pequeños, además de una fragmentación a través de todo el territorio, compuesta por polígonos de diversos tamaños y sin vecindad. La dinámica del cambio en el periodo 2006-2013 indica que la cobertura de plantaciones presentó el mayor incremento (6,578 ha) a causa del desmedro de las coberturas de bosque nativo y praderas-matorrales.
Distribución espacial de los metales pesados en polvos urbanos de la ciudad de Ensenada, Baja California, México
Authors: Cortés José L. , Bautista Francisco , Delgado Carmen , Quintana Patricia , Aguilar Daniel , García Alejandro , Figueroa Carlos , Gogichaishvili Avto
Published: December 2016

En Ensenada, Baja California, los barcos y vehículos emiten partículas con metales pesados. Las partículas se transportan con el viento y se depositan en el suelo, donde se mezclan con él dando lugar a los polvos urbanos. Los metales pesados pueden afectar la salud de la población, por lo que se requiere un diagnóstico rápido para encontrar soluciones. El objetivo de este trabajo fue identificar las zonas con mayor contaminación en la ciudad. Se tomaron 86 muestras de polvo urbano sobre diferentes sustratos (suelo, cemento y asfalto). Los metales se analizaron mediante fluorescencia de rayos X. Las diferencias entre los sustratos se identificaron mediante un análisis de varianza. Por otra parte, se hizo un análisis para conocer la distribución espacial de los metales pesados, utilizando la interpolación con kriging ordinario. El asfalto contiene las mayores concentraciones de Cr, Ni, Pb y Zn; el cemento contiene mayores concentracions de Cu y V; y el suelo es el que más Rb contiene. El mapa que integra las clases de mayor concentración de metales indica que la zona suroeste, donde se localiza el puerto y pasa la carretera transpeninsular, es la más contaminada.
Valoración económica de la biodiversidad forestal en México, una revisión
Authors: Romo-Lozano José Luis , López-Upton Javier , Vargas-Hernández J. Jesús , Ávila-Angulo María L.
Published: December 2016

El deterioro creciente de los recursos naturales crea la necesidad de valorar los servicios ambientales, incluidos los de la biodiversidad. La valoración económica de ésta se ha focalizado en bienes y servicios sin mercado, lo cual es complicado. Se han desarrollado técnicas para medir estos valores cuya aceptación se ha incrementado últimamente. En este trabajo se hizo una búsqueda de las valoraciones económicas efectuadas en México. Casi la totalidad de estudios de valoración realizados en el país se restringen a los métodos de valoración contingente (MVC) y costo de viaje (MCV). El único nivel de biodiversidad explorado es el de ecosistema. No se conocen trabajos desarrollados en términos de los bienes y servicios sin mercado a nivel de gen y especie. El método de valoración contingente es el más utilizado (11 estudios), le sigue el método costo de viaje con un estudio realizado conjuntamente con el MVC. Ocho estudios no consideraron los sesgos más importantes (tiempo, sustitución, múltiples destinos, vehículo de pago, estratégico e hipotético) de estos métodos.
Dynamic climate emulators for solar geoengineering
Authors: MacMartin Douglas G. , Kravitz Ben
Published: December 2016

Abstract. Climate emulators trained on existing simulations can be used to project project the climate effects that result from different possible future pathways of anthropogenic forcing, without further relying on general circulation model (GCM) simulations. We extend this idea to include different amounts of solar geoengineering in addition to different pathways of greenhouse gas concentrations, by training emulators from a multi-model ensemble of simulations from the Geoengineering Model Intercomparison Project (GeoMIP). The emulator is trained on the abrupt 4 × CO2 and a compensating solar reduction simulation (G1), and evaluated by comparing predictions against a simulated 1 % per year CO2 increase and a similarly smaller solar reduction (G2). We find reasonable agreement in most models for predicting changes in temperature and precipitation (including regional effects), and annual-mean Northern Hemisphere sea ice extent, with the difference between simulation and prediction typically being smaller than natural variability. This verifies that the linearity assumption used in constructing the emulator is sufficient for these variables over the range of forcing considered. Annual-minimum Northern Hemisphere sea ice extent is less well predicted, indicating a limit to the linearity assumption.
Impacts of large-scale atmospheric circulation changes due to winter
sea-ice retreat on Black Carbon transport and deposition to the
Arctic
Authors: Pozzoli Luca , Dobricic Srdan , Russo Simone , Vignati Elisabetta
Published: December 2016

Abstract. Winter warming and sea ice retreat observed in the Arctic in the last decades determine changes of large scale atmospheric circulation pattern that may impact as well the transport of black carbon (BC) to the Arctic and its deposition on the sea ice, with possible feedbacks on the regional and global climate forcing. In this study we developed and applied a new statistical algorithm, based on the Maximum Likelihood Estimate approach, to determine how the changes of three large scale weather patterns (the North Atlantic Oscillation, the Scandinavian Blocking, and the El Nino-Southern Oscillation), associated with winter increasing temperatures and sea ice retreat in the Arctic, impact the transport of BC to the Arctic and its deposition. We found that the three atmospheric patterns together determine a decreasing winter deposition trend of BC between 1980 and 2015 in the Eastern Arctic while they increase BC deposition in the Western Arctic. The increasing trend is mainly due to the more frequent occurrences of stable high pressure systems (atmospheric blocking) near Scandinavia favouring the transport in the lower troposphere of BC from Europe and North Atlantic directly into to the Arctic. The North Atlantic Oscillation has a smaller impact on BC deposition in the Arctic, but determines an increasing BC atmospheric load over the entire Arctic Ocean with increasing BC concentrations in the upper troposphere. The El Nino-Southern Oscillation does not influence significantly the transport and deposition of BC to the Arctic. The results show that changes in atmospheric circulation due to polar atmospheric warming and reduced winter sea ice significantly impacted BC transport and deposition. The anthropogenic emission reductions applied in the last decades were, therefore, crucial to counterbalance the most likely trend of increasing BC pollution in the Arctic.
Advanced characterization of aerosol properties from
measurements of spectral optical depth using the GRASP algorithm
Authors: Torres Benjamin , Dubovik Oleg , Fuertes David , Schuster Gregory , Cachorro Victoria Eugenia , Lapionak Tatsiana , Goloub Philippe , Blarel Luc , Barreto Africa , Mallet Marc , Toledano Carlos , Tanré Didier
Published: December 2016

Abstract. This study evaluates the potential of using aerosol optical depth (τa) measurements to characterize the microphysical and optical properties of atmospheric aerosols. With this aim, we used the recently developed GRASP (Generalized Retrieval of Aerosol and Surface Properties) code for numerical testing of six different aerosol models with three different aerosol loads. We found that bimodal log-normal size distributions serve as useful input assumptions, especially when the measurements have inadequate spectral coverage and/or limited accuracy, such as lunar photometry. The direct numerical simulations indicate that the GRASP-AOD retrieval provides modal aerosol optical depths (fine and coarse) to within 0.01 of the input values. The retrieval of the fine mode radius, width, and volume concentration is stable and precise if the real part of the refractive index is known. The coarse mode properties are less accurate, but they are significantly improved when additional a priori information is available. In addition to these numerical studies, we used optical depth observations at six AERONET locations to validate our results with the standard AERONET inversion products. Differences in the fine mode volume median radii for the GRASP-AOD and AERONET inversions are less than 0.02 μm at sites dominated by the fine mode for all cases, although they are typically less than 0.01 μm when τa(440) > 0.3. The comparison of the coarse mode volume median radii shows larger differences than the fine mode at the same sites, with values typically between 0.2–0.3 μm. The comparison of coarse mode volume median radii between GRASP-AOD and AERONET improves for sites dominated by desert dust aerosol, with differences of less than 0.2 μm in most cases. The retrieved values of the fine-mode τa(500) using GRASP-AOD are generally between those values obtained by the standard AERONET inversion and the values obtained by the advance AERONET Spectral Deconvolution Algorithm (SDA), with differences typically lower than 0.02 between GRASP-AOD and both algorithms. Finally, we present some examples of application of GRASP-AOD inversion using moon-photometry and the airborne PLASMA sun-photometer during ChArMEx summer 2013 campaign in the western Mediterranean.
Effect of secondary organic aerosol coating thickness on the real-time detection and characterization of biomass-burning soot by two particle mass spectrometers
Authors: Ahern Adam T. , Subramanian Ramachandran , Saliba Georges , Lipsky Eric M. , Donahue Neil M. , Sullivan Ryan C.
Published: December 2016

Abstract. Biomass burning is a large source of light-absorbing refractory black carbon (rBC) particles with a wide range of morphologies and sizes. The net radiative forcing from these particles is strongly dependent on the amount and composition of non-light-absorbing material internally mixed with the rBC and on the morphology of the mixed particles. Understanding how the mixing state and morphology of biomass-burning aerosol evolves in the atmosphere is critical for constraining the influence of these particles on radiative forcing and climate. We investigated the response of two commercial laser-based particle mass spectrometers, the vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) ablation LAAPTOF and the IR vaporization SP-AMS, to monodisperse biomass-burning particles as we sequentially coated the particles with secondary organic aerosol (SOA) from α-pinene ozonolysis. We studied three mobility-selected soot core sizes, each with a number of successively thicker coatings of SOA applied. Using IR laser vaporization, the SP-AMS had different changes in sensitivity to rBC compared to potassium as a function of applied SOA coatings. We show that this is due to different effective beam widths for the IR laser vaporization region of potassium versus black carbon. The SP-AMS's sensitivity to black carbon (BC) mass was not observed to plateau following successive SOA coatings, despite achieving high OA : BC mass ratios greater than 9. We also measured the ion fragmentation pattern of biomass-burning rBC and found it changed only slightly with increasing SOA mass. The average organic matter ion signal measured by the LAAPTOF demonstrated a positive correlation with the condensed SOA mass on individual particles, despite the inhomogeneity of the particle core compositions. This demonstrates that the LAAPTOF can obtain quantitative mass measurements of aged soot-particle composition from realistic biomass-burning particles with complex morphologies and composition.
Locally-orthogonal unstructured grid-generation for general circulation modelling on the sphere*
Authors: Engwirda Darren
Published: December 2016

Abstract. An algorithm for the generation of non-uniform, locally-orthogonal staggered unstructured spheroidal grids is described. This technique is designed to generate high-quality staggered Voronoi/Delaunay dual meshes appropriate for general circulation modelling on the sphere, including applications to atmospheric simulation, ocean-modelling and numerical weather prediction. Using a recently developed Frontal-Delaunay refinement technique, a method for the construction of unstructured spheroidal Delaunay triangulations is introduced. A locally-orthogonal polygonal grid, derived from the associated Voronoi diagram, is computed as the staggered dual. It is shown that use of the Delaunay-refinement technique allows for the generation of unstructured grids that satisfy a priori constraints on minimum mesh-quality. The initial staggered Voronoi/Delaunay tessellation is iteratively improved through hill-climbing optimisation techniques. Such an approach is shown to produce grids with very high element quality and smooth grading characteristics, while imposing relatively low computational expense. Initial results are presented for a selection of uniform and non-uniform spheroidal grids appropriate for high-resolution, multi-scale general circulation modelling. The use of user-defined mesh-spacing functions to generate smoothly graded, non-uniform grids for multi-resolution type studies is discussed in detail.
Characterizing and reducing equifinality by constraining a distributed catchment model with regional signatures, local observations, and process understanding
Authors: Kelleher Christa , McGlynn Brian , Wagener Thorsten
Published: December 2016

Abstract. Distributed catchment models are widely used tools for predicting hydrologic behaviour. While distributed models require many parameters to describe a system, they are expected to simulate behaviour that is more consistent with observed processes. However, obtaining a single set of acceptable parameters can be problematic, as parameter equifinality often results in several ‘behavioural’ sets that fit observations (typically streamflow). In this study, we investigate the extent to which equifinality impacts a typical distributed modelling application. We outline a hierarchical approach to reduce the number of behavioural sets based on regional, observation-driven, and expert knowledge-based constraints. For our application, we explore how each of these constraint classes reduced the number of ‘behavioural’ parameter sets and increased certainty in spatio-temporal simulations, simulating a well-studied headwater catchment, Stringer Creek, MT using the distributed hydrology-soil-vegetation model (DHSVM). As a demonstrative exercise, we investigated model performance across 10,000 parameter sets. Constraints on regional signatures, the hydrograph, and two internal measurements of snow water equivalent time series further reduced the number of behavioural parameter sets, but still left a small number with similar goodness of fit. This subset was ultimately further reduced by incorporating pattern expectations of groundwater table depth across the catchment. Our results suggest that utilizing a hierarchical approach based on regional datasets, observations, and expert knowledge to identify behavioural parameter sets can reduce equifinality and bolster more careful application and simulation of spatio-temporal processes via distributed modelling at the catchment scale.
An 868 MHz 7.5 µW wake-up receiver with −60 dBm sensitivity
Authors: Bdiri Sadok , Derbel Faouzi , Kanoun Olfa
Published: December 2016

Abstract. In wireless sensor networks (WSNs), batteries are unlikely to be replaced or recharged once they get depleted, because of costs and feasibility. In a typical application, sensor nodes should be accessible and able to respond within a defined period of time, especially in real-time applications. However, the idle listening of the radio wastes most of the energy since the radio transceiver is constantly active. On the other hand, putting it into sleep state disconnects the node from the network. To cope with such a challenge, an ultra-low-power radio receiver referred to as a wake-up receiver (WuRx) handles the idle listening while keeping the main radio completely off. A WuRx consumes much less power than the main transceiver and triggers an interrupt only when a packet with a user-defined address is received. Embedding such a device enables better event-triggered applications where real-time behavior is required and a longer lifetime is mandatory. The proposed WuRx features practical sensitivity and includes the minimum number of active components in order to remain within the power budget. In this paper, an ultra-low-power WuRx with a power of 7.5 µW and a sensitivity of −60 dBm is developed. The decoding process of 16 bit of a wake-up packet (WuPt) takes less than 15 ms.
Exceptional sequence of severe thunderstorms and related flash floods in May and June 2016 in Germany – Part 1: Meteorological background
Authors: Piper David , Kunz Michael , Ehmele Florian , Mohr Susanna , Mühr Bernhard , Kron Andreas , Daniell James
Published: December 2016

Abstract. During a 15-day episode from 26 May to 9 June 2016, Germany was affected by an exceptionally large number of severe thunderstorms. Heavy rainfall, related flash floods and creek flooding, hail, and tornadoes caused substantial losses running into billions of euros (EUR). This paper analyzes the key features of the severe thunderstorm episode using extreme value statistics, an aggregated precipitation severity index, and two different objective weather-type classification schemes. It is shown that the thunderstorm episode was caused by the interaction of high moisture content, low thermal stability, weak wind speed, and large-scale lifting by surface lows, persisting over almost 2 weeks due to atmospheric blocking.For the long-term assessment of the recent thunderstorm episode, we draw comparisons to a 55-year period (1960–2014) regarding clusters of convective days with variable length (2–15 days) based on precipitation severity, convection-favoring weather patterns, and compound events with low stability and weak flow. It is found that clusters with more than 8 consecutive convective days are very rare. For example, a 10-day cluster with convective weather patterns prevailing during the recent thunderstorm episode has a probability of less than 1 %.
Technical note: Algal Pigment Index 2 in the Atlantic off the southwest Iberian Peninsula: standard and regional algorithms
Authors: Goela Priscila , Cristina Sónia , Kajiyama Tamito , Icely John , Moore Gerald , Fragoso Bruno , Newton Alice
Published: December 2016

Abstract. In this study, Algal Pigment Index 2 (API2) is investigated in Sagres, an area located in the Atlantic off the southwestern Iberian Peninsula. Standard results provided by the MEdium Resolution Image Spectrometer (MERIS) ocean colour sensor were compared with alternative data products, determined through a regional inversion scheme, using both MERIS and in situ remote sensing reflectances (Rrs) as input data. The reference quantity for performance assessment is in situ total chlorophyll a (TChl a) concentration estimated through a phytoplankton absorption coefficient (i.e. equivalent to API2). Additional comparison of data products has also been addressed for TChl a concentration determined by high-performance liquid chromatography. The MERIS matchup analysis revealed a systematic underestimation of TChl a, which was confirmed with an independent comparison of product map analysis. The study demonstrates the importance of regional algorithms for the study area that could complement upcoming standard results of the current Sentinel-3/OLCI space mission.
Soil organic carbon stocks are systematically overestimated by
misuse of the parameters bulk density and stone content
Authors: Poeplau Christopher , Vos Cora , Don Axel
Published: December 2016

Abstract. Estimation of soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks requires estimates of the carbon content, bulk density, stone content and depth of a respective soil layer. However, different application of these parameters could introduce a considerable bias. Here, we explain why three out of four frequently applied methods overestimate SOC stocks. In stone rich soils (> 30 Vol. %), SOC stocks could be overestimated by more than 100 %, as revealed by using German Agricultural Soil Inventory data. Due to relatively low stone content, the mean systematic overestimation for German agricultural soils was 2.1–10.1 % for three different commonly used equations. The equation ensemble as re-formulated here might help to unify SOC stock determination and avoid overestimation in future studies.
Pedestrian Mortality Trends In Children Over Four Decades In Transitional Lithuania
Authors: Strukčinskienė Birutė , Bauer Robert , Griškonis Sigitas , Strukčinskaitė Vaiva
Published: December 2016

The aim of the study was to examine the long-term
trends in pedestrian mortality for children (aged 0
to 14 years) and young people (aged 15 to 19 years)
over four decades in transitional Lithuania.
Methods. Road traffic fatality data were obtained
from Statistics Lithuania and the Archives of Health
Information Centre. Trends were analysed by
linear regression using “Independence” as a slopechanging
intervention in 1991 and population as a
further explanatory factor in structural time series
models.
Results. The impact of the interventions, along with
the reforms and changes related with the Independence,
on pedestrian fatality trends in our time series
model was found highly statistically significant
for children 0 to 14 years (p<0.001) and still significant
for young people 15 to 19 years (p<0.05). No
significant impact on the trend of road traffic deaths
was found for the “control-groups” of non-pedestrian
road users in the age group 0 to 14 years and
adult pedestrians (over 19 years of age). For the age
group 15 to 19 years the effect of reforms was also
significant for non-pedestrians (p<0.05). These results
indicate that the effect of measures and changes
used in the post-independence period was more
specific in children that participated in road traffic
as pedestrians than in adult pedestrians, or in nonpedestrian
road users.
Conclusions. Pedestrian deaths in Lithuania fell significantly
in the age groups 0-14 and 15-19 years.
A declining trend was found in road traffic fatalities
and in pedestrian deaths in transitional Lithuania in
the post-independence period. Socioeconomic and
political transformations, systematic reforms in healthcare
along with sustainable preventive measures
may have contributed to this decrease. Targeted
road safety measures were road traffic regulations,
pedestrian education and environmentally based
prevention measures. As child pedestrians are the
most vulnerable group of road users, continued road
safety education and promotion are recommended
in order to maintain this trend, and to involve adult
pedestrians in this development.