bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CROSSOVER ANALYSIS OF CHANG'E-1 LASER ALTIMETER DATA
Authors: Hu W. , Yue Z. , Di K.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. This paper presents a preliminary result of crossover analysis and adjustment of Chang'E-1(CE-1) Laser Altimeter (LAM) data of the Moon for global and regional mapping applications. During the operation of Chang'E-1 from November 28, 2007 to December 4, 2008, the laser altimeter acquired 1400 orbital profiles with about 9.12 million altimetric points. In our experiment, we derived more than 1.38 million crossovers from 1395 ground tracks covering the entire lunar surface after eliminating outliers of orbits and altimetric points. A method of least-squares crossover adjustment with a series of basis functions of time (trigonometric functions and polynomials) is developed to reconcile the LAM data by minimizing the crossover residuals globally. The normal equations are very large but sparse; therefore they are stored and solved using sparse matrix technique. In a test area (0°N~60°N, 50°W~0°W), the crossover residuals are reduced from 62.1m to 32.8m, and the quality of the DEM generated from the adjusted LAM data is improved accordingly. We will optimize the method for the global adjustment to generate a high precision consistent global DEM, which can be used as absolute control for lunar mapping with orbital images.
CONSTRUCTION OF A 3D MEASURABLE VIRTUAL REALITY ENVIRONMENT BASED ON GROUND PANORAMIC IMAGES AND ORBITAL IMAGERY FOR PLANETARY EXPLORATION APPLICATIONS
Authors: Di K. , Liang J. , Liu Z.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. This paper presents a method of constructing a measurable virtual reality environment based on ground (lander/rover) panoramic images and orbital imagery. Ground panoramic images acquired by a lander/rover at different azimuth and elevation angles are automatically registered, seamlessly mosaicked and projected onto a cylindrical surface. A specific function is developed for inverse calculation from the panorama back to the original images so that the 3D information associated with the original stereo images can be retrieved or computed. The three-dimensional measurable panorama is integrated into a globe viewer based on NASA World Wind. The techniques developed in this research can be used in visualization of and measuring the orbital and ground images for planetary exploration missions, especially rover missions.
DIY GEOSPATIAL WEB SERVICE CHAINS: GEOCHAINING MAKE IT EASY
Authors: Wu H. , You L. , Gui Z.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. It is a great challenge for beginners to create, deploy and utilize a Geospatial Web Service Chain (GWSC). People in Computer Science are usually not familiar with geospatial domain knowledge. Geospatial practitioners may lack the knowledge about web services and service chains. The end users may lack both. However, integrated visual editing interfaces, validation tools, and oneclick deployment wizards may help to lower the learning curve and improve modelling skills so beginners will have a better experience. GeoChaining is a GWSC modelling tool designed and developed based on these ideas. GeoChaining integrates visual editing, validation, deployment, execution etc. into a unified platform. By employing a Virtual Globe, users can intuitively visualize raw data and results produced by GeoChaining. All of these features allow users to easily start using GWSC, regardless of their professional background and computer skills. Further, GeoChaining supports GWSC model reuse, meaning that an entire GWSC model created or even a specific part can be directly reused in a new model. This greatly improves the efficiency of creating a new GWSC, and also contributes to the sharing and interoperability of GWSC.
IDENTIFYING CORRESPONDING SEGMENTS FROM REPEATED SCAN DATA
Authors: van Goor B. , Lindenbergh R. , Soudarissanane S.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. It has been demonstrated that surface changes in the order of millimeters are detectable using terrestrial laser scanning. In practice however, it is still virtually impossible to detect such small changes from for example repeated scans of a complex industrial scene. The three main obstructions are, ﬁrst, a priori uncertainty on what objects are actually changing, second, errors introduced by registration, and third, difﬁculties in the identiﬁcation of identical object parts. In this paper we introduce a method enabling efﬁcient identiﬁcation that can also be applied to evaluate the quality of a registration. The method starts with a pair of co-registered point clouds, at least partially representing the same scene. First, both point clouds are segmented, according to a suited homogeneity criterion. Based on basically orientation and location, corresponding segment parts are identiﬁed, while lack of correspondence leads to the identiﬁcation of either occlusions or large changes. For the corresponding segments, subtle changes at the millimeter level could be analyzed in a next step. An initial version of the new method is demonstrated on repeated scan data of a metro station experiencing heavy construction works.
INTEGRATION OF TERRESTRIAL LASER SCANNING POINTS AND 2D FLOOR PLANS BASED ON MAXIMUM SEQUENTIAL SIMILARITY
Authors: Wang L. , Sohn G.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. This paper presents a Maximum Sequential Similarity Reasoning (MSSR) algorithm based method for co-registration of 3D TLS data and 2D floor plans. The co-registration consists of two tasks: estimating a transformation between the two datasets and finding the vertical locations of windows and doors. The method first extracts TLS line sequences and floor plan line sequences from a series of horizontal cross-section bands of the TLS points and floor plans respectively. Then each line sequence is further decomposed into column vectors defined by using local transformation invariant information between two neighbouring line segments. Based on a normalized cross-correlation based similarity score function, the proposed MSSR algorithm is then used to iteratively estimate the vertical and horizontal locations of each floor plan by finding the longest matched consecutive column vectors between floor plan line sequences and TLS line sequences. A group matching algorithm is applied to simultaneously determine final matching results across floor plans and estimate the transformation parameters between floor plans and TLS points. With real datasets, the proposed method demonstrates its ability to deal with occlusions and multiple matching problems. It also shows the potential to detect conflict between floor plan and as-built, which makes it a promising method that can find many applications in many industrial fields.
MODELLING OF AN INEXPENSIVE 9M SATELLITE DISH FROM 3D POINT CLOUDS CAPTURED BY TERRESTRIAL LASER SCANNERS
Authors: Belton D. , Gibson A. , Stansby B. , Tingay S. , Bae K.-H.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. This paper presents the use of Terrestrial laser scanners (TLS) to model the surface of satellite dish. In this case, the dish was an inexpensive 9m parabolic satellite dish with a mesh surface, and was to be utilised in radio astronomy. The aim of the modelling process was to determine the deviation of the surface away from its true parabolic shape, in order to estimate the surface efficiency with respect to its principal receiving frequency. The main mathematical problems were the optimal and unbiased estimation the orientation of the dish and the fitting of a parabola to the local orientation or coordinate system, which were done by both orthogonal and algebraic minimization using the least-squares method. Due to the mesh structure of the dish, a classification method was also applied to filter out erroneous points being influenced by the supporting structure behind the dish. Finally, a comparison is performed between the ideal parabolic shape, and the data collected from three different temporal intervals.
FUSION OF MOBILE LASER SCANNING AND PANORAMIC IMAGES FOR STUDYING RIVER ENVIRONMENT TOPOGRAPHY AND CHANGES
Authors: Vaaja M. , Kurkela M. , Hyyppä H. , Alho P. , Hyyppä J. , Kukko A. , Kaartinen H. , Kasvi E. , Kaasalainen S. , Rönnholm P.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. In recent years, laser scanning measurements have been widely used to detect topographic and urban features. In this article, we present a method to integrate mobile laser scanning (MLS) data and panoramic images for producing a textured surface model within a fluvial environment. We also describe the use of the textured surface model to characterize and interpret changes caused by high discharges. The accuracy of MLS-based digital terrain models (DTM) and change detection is evaluated by using static terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) measurements as a reference. The laser scanning data was measured with the mobile mapping system developed in co-operation with the Finnish Geodetic Institute and Aalto University. The boat-based system (BoMMS) has been specially developed for fluvial geomorphology and river mapping. We created panoramic image mosaics by combining sequences of digital images. These methods are suitable for collecting detailed data when traditional methods are unable to gather the data needed for fluvial modelling. The paper also presents a process chain for combining these data sources.
TOPOLOGY EXTRACTION USING DEPTH FIRST SEARCH ON VOXEL REPRESENTATIONS OF TREE POINT CLOUDS
Authors: Schilling A. , Schmidt A. , Maas H.-G. , Wagner S.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. The three-dimensional reconstruction of the vegetation structure is a requirement for the analysis of interaction between biosphere and atmosphere. Information about the 3D structure of plants enables the modeling of crucial processes, like water interception or absorption of light. Terrestrial laser scanners have proven to be a valuable tool to rapidly and accurately capture the geometry of plants as point clouds, which provide the foundation for analyzing their structure. Based on a very dense but unstructured, noisy point cloud, we have presented a method to extract the topology of a tree in form of a tree graph, demonstrated on a test set of single birches. In a first step we have applied a variation of the Circular Hough Transform to detect a set of 3D points, which represent the tree trunk. Subsequently, the point cloud is transformed onto a voxel space and filtered to a connected component representation of only the main object. In the second step, the residual voxels are interpreted as a connected graph and the Depth First Search algorithm is employed to retrieve the topology of the scanned tree.
POINT CLOUD VISUALIZATION IN AN OPEN SOURCE 3D GLOBE
Authors: De La Calle M. , Gómez-Deck D. , Koehler O. , Pulido F.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. During the last years the usage of 3D applications in GIS is becoming more popular. Since the appearance of Google Earth, users are familiarized with 3D environments. On the other hand, nowadays computers with 3D acceleration are common, broadband access is widespread and the public information that can be used in GIS clients that are able to use data from the Internet is constantly increasing. There are currently several libraries suitable for this kind of applications. Based on these facts, and using libraries that are already developed and connected to our own developments, we are working on the implementation of a real 3D GIS with analysis capabilities. Since a 3D GIS such as this can be very interesting for tasks like LiDAR or Laser Scanner point clouds rendering and analysis, special attention is given to get an optimal handling of very large data sets. Glob3 will be a multidimensional GIS in which 3D point clouds could be explored and analysed, even if they are consist of several million points.The latest addition to our visualization libraries is the development of a points cloud server that works regardless of the cloud's size. The server receives and processes petitions from a 3d client (for example glob3, but could be any other, such as one based on WebGL) and delivers the data in the form of pre-processed tiles, depending on the required level of detail.
VARIANCE ANALYSIS AND COMPARISON IN COMPUTER-AIDED DESIGN
Authors: Ullrich T. , Schiffer T. , Schinko C. , Fellner D. W.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. The need to analyze and visualize differences of very similar objects arises in many research areas: mesh compression, scan alignment, nominal/actual value comparison, quality management, and surface reconstruction to name a few. In computer graphics, for example, differences of surfaces are used for analyzing mesh processing algorithms such as mesh compression. They are also used to validate reconstruction and ﬁtting results of laser scanned surfaces. As laser scanning has become very important for the acquisition and preservation of artifacts, scanned representations are used for documentation as well as analysis of ancient objects. Detailed mesh comparisons can reveal smallest changes and damages. These analysis and documentation tasks are needed not only in the context of cultural heritage but also in engineering and manufacturing. Differences of surfaces are analyzed to check the quality of productions. Our contribution to this problem is a workflow, which compares a reference / nominal surface with an actual, laser-scanned data set. The reference surface is a procedural model whose accuracy and systematics describe the semantic properties of an object; whereas the laser-scanned object is a real-world data set without any additional semantic information.
ARCRANGE AND ARCSEER: PRESENTING A NEW APPROACH TO ARCHAEOLOGICAL DATA MANAGEMENT AND REPRESENTATION
Authors: Lynam F.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. This paper presents a new approach to archaeological data management and representation. The archaeological discipline has struggled to come to terms with the representational demands imposed by the adoption of post-processualist theoretical methodologies. The traditional canon of representational device that has served the positivist frameworks so well in the past has been found wanting when used to present post-processualism's doubt, multivocality, multisensory experience and general reflexivity. This paper presents a new set of data management and visualisation digital tools that seek to address these shortcomings. ArcRange is a backend data management solution that provides easy and powerful manipulation of the varied forms that make up modern archaeological datasets. ArcSeer is a data visualisation tool which uses 3D technology to represent datasets in a more naturalistic or phenomenological way. ArcSeer accesses its data by interfacing with ArcRange. This paper will present an overview of the combined operation of both of these new systems using the test datasets of the Cretan sites of Petsofa and Priniatikos Pyrgos by way of illustration.
PROCESSING A COMPLEX ARCHITECTURAL SAMPLING WITH MESHLAB: THE CASE OF PIAZZA DELLA SIGNORIA
Authors: Callieri M. , Cignoni P. , Dellepiane M. , Ranzuglia G. , Scopigno R.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. The paper presents a recent 3D scanning project performed with long range scanning technology showing how a complex sampled dataset can be processed with the features available in MeshLab, an open source tool. MeshLab is an open source mesh processing system. It is a portable and extensible system aimed to help the processing of the typical not-so-small unstructured models that arise in 3D scanning, providing a set of tools for editing, cleaning, processing, inspecting, rendering and converting meshes. The MeshLab system started in late 2005 as a part of a university course, and considerably evolved since then thanks to the effort of the Visual Computing Lab and of the support of several funded EC projects. MeshLab gained so far an excellent visibility and distribution, with several thousands downloads every month, and a continuous evolution. The aim of this scanning campaign was to sample the façades of the buildings located in Piazza della Signoria (Florence, Italy). This digital 3D model was required, in the framework of a Regional Project, as a basic background model to present a complex set of images using a virtual navigation metaphor (following the PhotoSynth approach). Processing of complex dataset, such as the ones produced by long range scanners, often requires specialized, difficult to use and costly software packages. We show in the paper how it is possible to process this kind of data inside an open source tool, thanks to the many new features recently introduced in MeshLab for the management of large sets of sampled point.
AN IMAGE-BASED APPROACH FOR THE ARCHITECTURAL MODELING OF PAST STATES
Authors: Stefani C. , Busayarat C. , Renaudin N. , De Luca L. , Véron P. , Florenzano M.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. During the modelling process, 3D models are not easily conceived to support changes over time. On the contrary, for the description of cultural heritage, it is often necessary to display not only the actual state of buildings but also their previous states so to understand their modifications. The construction and structuring of spatio-temporal models of cultural heritage demand a double conceptual effort: on one side, 3D models must be reconstructed and structured in space according to architectural concepts; on the other one, such elements should follow the criteria of temporal decomposition. For this reason, links between structured elements should be established to keep track of changes over time. Moreover, only the current state can be reconstructed in a rigorous way using a combination of different 3D measurement techniques (such as laser scanning and photogrammetry); on the contrary, knowledge about past states is conditioned by missing elements, whose morphology and dating can reveal uncertain. For this reason, this paper describes a methodological approach to make use of the existing iconographic corpus for the analysis and the 3D management of building transformations. The aim is to establish a relation between the iconography used for the hypothetical reconstruction and the 3D representation that depends on it. As a result, 3D representations can be used like visualization systems capable of reflecting the amount of knowledge produced studying historic buildings.
EFFECTIVE 3D DIGITIZATION OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL ARTIFACTS FOR INTERACTIVE VIRTUAL MUSEUM
Authors: Tucci G. , Cini D. , Nobile A.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. This paper presents a set of results of an on-going research on digital 3D reproduction of medium and small size archaeological artifacts which is intended to support the elaboration of a virtual and interactive exhibition environment, and also to provide a scientiﬁc archive of highly accurate models for specialists. After a short illustration of the background project and its ﬁnalities, we present the data acquisition through triangulation-based laser scanning and the post-processing methods we used to face the challenge of obtaining a large number of reliable digital copies at reasonable costs and within a short time frame, giving an account of the most recurrent problematic issues of the established work-ﬂow and how they were solved (the careful placing of the artifacts to be digitized so to achieve the best results, the cleaning operations in order to build a coherent single polygon mesh, how to deal with unavoidable missing parts or defected textures in the generated model, etc.).
CONSTRUCTION OF A GEOGRAPHICAL DATABASE OF CLASSICAL-ARCHAIC MANUFACTURES, FOUND IN THE SURVEY OF THE GREEK COLONY HIMERA (SICILY, ITALY). APPLICATION AND METHODOLOGIES FOR AN EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCH
Authors: Papa M. A. , Tardo V.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. This research has analysed the distribution of ceramic finds from classical and archaic ages in the territory of the ancient Greek colony Himera, a town situated near Termini Imerese, in the province of Palermo (Sicily, Italy), which has been the site of systematic excavations carried out by the University of Palermo since the Sixties. The study of about 1500 ceramic fragments, dated back to the 6th-5th century B.C., has allowed to develop an approach to the understanding of the role played by ceramics in the relations between different societies and cultures. Besides the most common analysis factors for the ceramic manufactures, such as their production and distribution, a major factor is the way the manufactures were used. From this wider perspective, a new methodology has been developed about information potential of functional analysis. The interpretation of data about the manufacture distribution was made by means of GIS methodologies, querying the alphanumerical classification database and relating the manufacture typological data to the geo-cartographic ones by means of applying intersite-level spatial analysis. Thus, each archaeological piece of information about the finds can be analysed in relation to the territory geo-morphological features and the obtained data can be processed with specific software environments, in order to suggest reconstruction models for the anthropic landscape, based on the relation between coeval sites and distance from specific environment features — for example, distance from water sources, raw materials, road condition etc. The computer application used for data handling, presentation and analysis, becomes this way a tool of research aimed at the comprehension of settlement dynamics in the historical scenery. This study is the occasion to propose such an analysis system of cultural heritage as a new tool to promote it and to increase its value, applying a territorial context related methodology founded on scientific evidence.
FROM CAD TO DIGITAL MODELING: THE NECESSARY HYBRIDIZATION OF PROCESSES
Authors: Massari G. A. , Bernardi F. , Cristofolini A.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. The essay deals with the themes of digital representation of architecture starting from several years of teaching activity which is growing within the course of Automatic Design of the degree course in Engineering/Architecture in the University of Trento. With the development of CAD systems, architectural representation lies less in the tracking of a simple graph and drawn deeper into a series of acts of building a complex digital model, which can be used as a data base on which to report all the stages of project and interpretation work, and from which to derive final drawings and documents. The advent of digital technology has led to increasing difficulty in finding explicit connections between one type of operation and the subsequent outcome; thereby increasing need for guidelines, the need to understand in order to precede the changes, the desire not to be overwhelmed by uncontrollable influences brought by technological hardware and software systems to use only in accordance with the principle of maximum productivity. Formation occupies a crucial role because has the ability to direct the profession toward a thoughtful and selective use of specific applications; teaching must build logical routes in the fluid world of info-graphics and the only way to do so is to describe its contours through method indications: this will consist in understanding, studying and divulging what in its mobility does not change, as procedural issues, rather than what is transitory in its fixity, as manual questions.
MATERA CITTÀ NARRATA PROJECT: AN INTEGRATED GUIDE FOR MOBILE SYSTEMS
Authors: Pietroni E. , Borghini S. , Carlani R. , Rufa C.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. Matera città Narrata is a project coordinated by CNR ITABC and financed by the Agency of Tourist Promotion of Basilicata region, aimed to the creation of a digital platform able to support the public before and during the visit of Matera (World Heritage since 1993), providing cultural contents by multiple communicative formats and access possibilities. The main components of the project are: 1) the web site, accessible in remote and adapted also from smartphone, 2) cultural contents and applications for mobile devices (old style mobile phone, smartphone, iPad) with different operative systems. Every user can reach cultural contents in a simple way, choosing the communicative format he prefers and supported by the technology he owns. The access is totally free for public. In this paper we'll describe, more in detail, the application developed for iPad.
THE STUDY ON HEIGHT INFORMATION EXTRACTION OF CULTURAL FEATURES IN REMOTE SENSING IMAGES BASED ON SHADOW AREAS
Authors: Bao-Ming Z. , Hai-Tao G. , Jun L. , Zhi-Qing L. , Hong H.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. Cultural feature is important element in geospatial information library and the height information is important information of cultural features. The existences of the height information and its precision have direct influence over topographic map, especially the quality of large-scale and medium-scale topographic map, and the level of surveying and mapping support. There are a lot of methods about height information extraction, in which the main methods are ground survey (field direct measurement) spatial sensor and photogrammetric ways. However, automatic extraction is very tough. This paper has had an emphasis on segmentation algorithm on shadow areas under multiple constraints and realized automatic extraction of height information by using shadow. Binarization image can be obtained using gray threshold estimated under the multiple constraints. On the interesting area, spot elimination and region splitting are made. After region labeling and non-shadowed regions elimination, shadow area of cultural features can be found. Then height of the cultural features can be calculated using shadow length, sun altitude angle, azimuth angle, and sensor altitude angle, azimuth angle. A great many of experiments have shown that mean square error of the height information of cultural features extraction is close to 2 meter and automatic extraction rate is close to 70%.
HIGH AND LOW RESOLUTION TEXTURED MODELS OF COMPLEX ARCHITECTURAL SURFACES
Authors: Stathopoulou E. K. , Valanis A. , Lerma J. L. , Georgopoulos A.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. During the recent years it has become obvious that 3D technology, applied mainly with the use of terrestrial laser scanners (TLS) is the most suitable technique for the complete geometric documentation of complex objects, whether they are monuments or architectural constructions in general. However, it is rather a challenging task to convert an acquired point cloud into a realistic 3D polygonal model that can simultaneously satisfy high resolution modeling and visualization demands. The aim of the visualization of a simple or complex object is to create a 3D model that best describes the reality within the computer environment. This paper is dedicated especially in the visualization of a complex object's 3D model, through high, as well as low resolution textured models. The object of interest for this study was the Almoina (Romanesque) Door of the Cathedral of Valencia in Spain.
COMBINING DISTANCE AND FACE-TO-FACE TEACHING AND LEARNING IN SPATIAL COMPUTATIONS
Authors: Gulland E.-K. , Schut A. G. T. , Veenendaal B.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. Retention and passing rates as well as student engagement in computer programming and problem solving units are a major concern in tertiary spatial science courses. A number of initiatives were implemented to improve this. A pilot study reviews the changes made to the teaching and learning environment, including the addition of new resources and modifications to assessments, and investigates their effectiveness. In particular, the study focuses on the differences between students studying in traditional, oncampus mode and distance, e-learning mode. Student results and retention rates from 2009–2011, data from in-lecture clicker response units and two anonymous surveys collected in 2011 were analysed. Early results indicate that grades improved for engaged students but pass rates or grades of the struggling cohort of students did not improve significantly.
GRAPE – GIS REPETITION USING AUDIO-VISUAL REPETITION UNITS AND ITS LEANRING EFFECTIVENESS
Authors: Niederhuber M. , Brugger S.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. A new audio-visual learning medium has been developed at the Department of Environmental Sciences at ETH Zurich (Switzerland), for use in geographical information sciences (GIS) courses. This new medium, presented in the form of Repetition Units, allows students to review and consolidate the most important learning concepts on an individual basis. The new material consists of: a) a short enhanced podcast (recorded and spoken slide show) with a maximum duration of 5 minutes, which focuses on only one important aspect of a lecture's theme; b) one or two relevant exercises, covering different cognitive levels of learning, with a maximum duration of 10 minutes; and c), solutions for the exercises. During a pilot phase in 2010, six Repetition Units were produced by the lecturers. Twenty more Repetition Units will be produced by our students during the fall semester of 2011 and 2012. The project is accompanied by a 5-year study (2009 – 2013) that investigates learning success using the new material, focussing on the question, whether or not the new material help to consolidate and refresh basic GIS knowledge. It will be analysed based on longitudinal studies. Initial results indicate that the new medium helps to refresh knowledge as the test groups scored higher than the control group. These results are encouraging and suggest that the new material with its combination of short audio-visual podcasts and relevant exercises help to consolidate students' knowledge.
ANALYSIS OF SPATIO-TEMPORAL PATTERNS OF LEAF AREA INDEX IN DIFFERENT FOREST TYPES OF INDIA USING HIGH TEMPORAL REMOTE SENSING DATA
Authors: Chhabra A. , Panigrahy S.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. Knowledge of temporal variations of Leaf Area Index (LAI) aids in understanding the climate-vegetation interaction of different vegetative systems. This information is amenable from high temporal remote sensing data. India has around 78.37 million hectare, accounting for 23.84% of the geographic area of the country under forest/tree cover. India has a diverse set of vegetation types ranging from tropical evergreen to dry deciduous. We present a detailed spatio-temporal and inter-seasonal analysis of LAI patterns in different forest types of India using MODIS 8-day composites global LAI/fPAR product for the year 2005 at 1-km spatial resolution. A forest cover mask was generated using SPOT 1-km landuse/landcover classification over the Indian region. The range of estimated LAI varied from 0.1–6.9 among the different forest types. Maximum LAI was observed in tropical evergreen forests in North-Eastern region and Western Ghats. Low LAI was observed in Central Indian region due to predominance of dry deciduous forests. The spatial patterns of seasonal variations detected that for most of the forest types, the peak LAI values were observed during September and October months of the autumn season in contrast to minimum LAI during summer season. The mean LAI and standard deviation for each 8-day LAI composite were also computed and mean monthly LAI profiles were derived for each forest type classified on the basis of their geographical locations. These results are useful indicators for detailed understanding of phenological sequence and may also serve as important inputs for deriving bioclimatic indices for different forest types of India.
ASSESSING THE IMPACTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON TERRESTRIAL ECOSYSTEMS IN BHAVANISAGAR RESERVOIR AND ITS SURROUNDINGS, USING MULTITEMPORAL SATELLITE DATA AND GIS TECHNIQUES
Authors: Balamurugan G. , Meiyappa G. , Thirukumaran V.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. Despite the warnings against climate change since the early century, recent human activities are still geared towards enhancing them. Because of climate change coupled by other human activities, natural ecosystems are facing difficulties in coping with the impacts of climate change. The evaluation of the impact of climate change on ecosystems implies studying a multi-component system in which the complexity of links is high enough to present doing it as a whole. Because of this, it is a reasonable approach to study separately the behavior of each element, to be afterwards linked into a general conceptual model for ecosystems behavior. Moreover, in the case of largely regulated region, the main impacts of climatic change will be fluvial-related since those related to the catchment areas will be severely damped by river regulation and management policies. This fact implies that Terrestrial fringes may become the main frontier between the ecosystems and climatic change effects. This paper describes the potential impacts of warming temperatures and changing precipitation on vegetation, wildlife, land use/ land covers, and agricultural ecosystems across the Bhavanisagar Reservoir region centered on Coimbatore district, Tamilnadu. We examine a geographic area that captures much of Reservoir, including a complex mosaic of urbanization and agriculture surrounding the Bhavanisagar Reservoir. The comparative study of land cover and soil status are provided using space images with middle resolution. Multitemporal satellite data provide the capability for mapping and monitoring land cover and land use change, but require the development of accurate and repeatable techniques that can be extended to a broad range of environments and conditions. The Landsat TM and ETM+ and SRTM-DEM images are included in analysis. The unsupervised and supervised classifications are applied for determination of different types of land cover. The research present here has focus on devising a simple and operational rule-based approach to map land cover changes, based on the classification of Landsat imagery and the conceptual analysis of the information regarding change detection. The use of ancillary GIS data such as Digital Elevation Model, existing thematic maps and the knowledge of the ecosystem dynamics, formed the basis for setting the rules for the post-processing of the classified Multitemporal images that led to a more accurate assessment and mapping of land cover changes. The above framework has proved to be a promising and practical approach in order to quantify, understand, conceptualize and better present the dynamics of land cover/use changes in Terrestrial Ecosystems.
VARIABILITY OF ATMOSPHERIC CO2 OVER INDIA AND SURROUNDING OCEANS AND CONTROL BY SURFACE FLUXES
Authors: Nayak R. K. , Dadhwal V. K. , Majumdar A. , Patel N. R. , Dutt C. B. S.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. In the present study, seasonal and inter-annual variability of atmospheric CO2 concentration over India and surrounding oceans during 2002–2010 derived from Atmospheric InfrarRed Sounder observation and their relation with the natural flux exchanges over terrestrial Indian and surrounding oceans were analyzed. The natural fluxes over the terrestrial Indian in the form of net primary productivity (NPP) were simulated based on a terrestrial biosphere model governed by time varying climate parameters (solar radiation, air temperature, precipitation etc) and satellite greenness index together with the land use land cover and soil attribute maps. The flux exchanges over the oceans around India (Tropical Indian Ocean: TIO) were calculated based on a empirical model of CO2 gas dissolution in the oceanic water governed by time varying upper ocean parameters such as gradient of partial pressure of CO2 between ocean and atmosphere, winds, sea surface temperature and salinity. Comparison between the variability of atmospheric CO2 anomaly with the anomaly of surface fluxes over India and surrounding oceans suggests that biosphere uptake over India and oceanic uptake over the south Indian Ocean could play positive role on the control of seasonal variability of atmospheric carbon dioxide growth rate. On inter-annual scale, flux exchanges over the tropical north Indian Ocean could play positive role on the control of atmospheric carbon dioxide growth rate.
Microsatellite polymorphism in the EGFR, NOTCH4 and E2F4 genes and their association with breast cancer risk
Authors: González-Hernández Ana , Henríquez-Hernández Luis Alberto , De León Antonio Cabrera , del Cristo Rodríguez-Pérez M. , Murias-Rosales Adolfo , Domínguez-Coello Santiago , Brito-Díaz Buenaventura , Almeida-González Delia , Aguirre-Jaime Armando , Díaz-Chico B. Nicolás
Published: September 2012

Background

The sequences of many human genes that encode proteins involved in cancer contain polymorphic microsatellites. Variations in microsatellite length may constitute risk factors in several human diseases, a possibility that has been little explored in breast cancer. Among the genes that contain polymorphic microsatellites are EGFR, NOTCH4 and E2F4. The length of some of these microsatellites has been associated with breast cancer risk.

Purpose and methods

To determine whether the length of the microsatellites (CA)n in EGFR, (CTG)n in NOTCH4 and (AGC)n in E2F4 was associated with breast cancer risk, we genotyped these 3 microsatellites in 212 women with breast cancer and a control group of 308 women from the general population who did not have this disease.

Results and conclusions

The allelic distribution observed for the 3 microsatellites matched that found in other white populations, with the exception of some (AGC)n alleles in E2F4, which have not been described previously. The length of (CA)n in EGFR and (CTG)n in NOTCH4 was not associated with breast cancer (OR=0.99; 95% CI 0.59–1.37; p=0.619 and OR=1.08; 95% CI 0.71–1.65; p=0.725, respectively). Short alleles (<13 repeats) of (AGC)n in E2F4 were less frequent in women with cancer than in the control sample.
A Skin Fixation Method for Decreasing the Influence of Wound Contraction on Wound Healing in a Rat Model
Authors: Bae Seong Hwan , Bae Yong Chan , Nam Su Bong , Choi Soo Jong
Published: September 2012

Background The elasticity of the back skin of the rat reduced the tension around wounds during the wound healing process in that region, and thus activates wound contraction. The authors proposed two skin fixation methods using readily available materials to decrease the influence of wound contraction on wound healing and designed an experiment to determine their effects.

Methods The authors made 36 skin wounds on the backs of 18 rats, and they divided them into three groups. Each group was treated with three different kinds of dressing materials, each with different skin fixing characteristics. Group A was a control group. Group B and group C were dressed by the first and the second skin fixation method. We measured the areas of the wounds post-surgically and calculated the wound area reduction rates.

Results The two skin fixation methods both reduced the effect of wound contraction compared to the control group. Each of the two methods had different outcomes in reducing wound contraction.

Conclusions The experiment demonstrated significant differences among the wound areas and the wound area reduction rates of the three groups as a result of differences in the degree of wound contraction. To obtain accurate results from wound healing experiments, appropriate skin fixation methods must be adopted.
Reliability of Reconstructed Breast Flap after Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy in Immediate Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Lee Keun-Cheol , Kim Tae-Heon , Park Su-Seong , Kim Min-Su , Kim Myung-Hoon , Kim Seok-Kwun , Cho Se-Heon , Lee Mi-Ri , Lee Jin-Hwa , Lee Hyung-Sik , Kim Dae-Cheol
Published: September 2012

Background Postmastectomy adjuvant therapy is used to prevent locoregional recurrence and improve overall breast cancer specific survival rates. However, it can adversely affect the cosmetic results of reconstruction. Therefore, the authors examined flap stability and patients' satisfaction with immediate breast reconstruction after adjuvant therapy.

Methods We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 204 patients from January 2006 to November 2011. For complication rates, the authors categorized the patients who underwent the immediate breast reconstruction into 4 groups: adjuvant chemotherapy and radiotherapy group, adjuvant chemotherapy only group, adjuvant radiotherapy only group, and the group that did not undergo adjuvant therapy. For comparison of patients' satisfaction, the study was performed with an additional 16 patients who had undergone delayed breast reconstruction.

Results Regarding complication rates, the group that had undergone adjuvant therapy showed no significant difference compared to the group that did not undergo adjuvant therapy. In evaluating the patients' satisfaction, there was no significant difference.

Conclusions Even after adjuvant therapy, immediate breast reconstruction showed good results with respect to flap stability and patients' satisfaction. Immediate breast reconstruction and adjuvant therapy is a safe and useful option for breast cancer patients.
Facial Soft Tissue Augmentation using Autologous Fat Mixed with Stromal Vascular Fraction
Authors: Lee Sang Kyun , Kim Deok-Woo , Dhong Eun-Sang , Park Seung-Ha , Yoon Eul-Sik
Published: September 2012

Background Autologous fat grafting evolved over the twentieth century to become a quick, safe, and reliable method for restoring volume. However, autologous fat grafts have some problems including uncertain viability of the grafted fat and a low rate of graft survival. To overcome the problems associated with autologous fat grafts, we used uncultured adipose tissue-derived stromal cell (stromal vascular fraction, SVF) assisted autologous fat grafting. Thus, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of SVF in a clinical trial.

Methods SVF cells were freshly isolated from half of the aspirated fat and were used in combination with the other half of the aspirated fat during the procedure. Between March 2007 and February 2008, a total of 9 SVF-assisted fat grafts were performed in 9 patients. The patients were followed for 12 weeks after treatment. Data collected at each follow-up visit included clinical examination of the graft site(s), photographs for historical comparison, and information from a patient questionnaire that measured the outcomes from the patient perspective. The photographs were evaluated by medical professionals.

Results Scores of the left facial area grafted with adipose tissue mixed with SVF cells were significantly higher compared with those of the right facial area grafted with adipose tissue without SVF cells. There was no significant adverse effect.

Conclusions The subjective patient satisfaction survey and surgeon survey showed that SVF-assisted fat grafting was a surgical procedure with superior results.
Reduction of Zygomatic Fractures Using the Carroll-Girard T-bar Screw
Authors: Baek Ji Eun , Chung Chan Min , Hong In Pyo
Published: September 2012

Zygomatic fractures are the second most common facial bone fractures encountered and treated by plastic surgeons. Stable fixation of fractured fragments after adequate exposure is critical for ensuring three-dimensional anatomic reduction. Between January 2008 and December 2010, 17 patients with zygomatic fractures were admitted to our hospital; there were 15 male and 2 female patients. The average age of the patients was 41 years (range, 19 to 75 years). We exposed the inferior orbital rim and zygomatic complex through a lateral brow, intraoral, and subciliary incisions, which allowed for visualization of the bone, and then the fractured parts were corrected using the Carroll-Girard T-bar screw. Postoperative complications such as malar asymmetry, diplopia, enophthalmos, and postoperative infection were not observed. Lower eyelid retraction and temporary ectropion occurred in 1 of the 17 patients. Functional and cosmetic results were excellent in nearly all of the cases. In this report, we describe using the Carroll-Girard T-bar screw for the reduction of zygomatic fractures. Because this instrument is easy to use and can rotate to any direction and vector, it can be used to correct displaced zygomatic bone more accurately and safely than other devices, without leaving facial scars.
Nutritional Modulation of Insulin Resistance
Authors: Weickert Martin O.
Published: September 2012

Insulin resistance has been proposed as the strongest single predictor for the development of Type 2 Diabetes (T2DM). Chronic oversupply of energy from food, together with inadequate physical activity, have been recognized as the most relevant factors leading to overweight, abdominal adiposity, insulin resistance, and finally T2DM. Conversely, energy reduced diets almost invariably to facilitate weight loss and reduce abdominal fat mass and insulin resistance. However, sustained weight loss is generally difficult to achieve, and distinct metabolic characteristics in patients with T2DM further compromise success. Therefore, investigating the effects of modulating the macronutrient composition of isoenergetic diets is an interesting concept that may lead to additional important insights. Metabolic effects of various different dietary concepts and strategies have been claimed, but results from randomized controlled studies and particularly from longer-term-controlled interventions in humans are often lacking. However, some of these concepts are supported by recent research, at least in animal models and short-term studies in humans. This paper provides an update of the current literature regarding the role of nutrition in the modulation of insulin resistance, which includes the discussion of weight-loss-independent metabolic effects of commonly used dietary concepts.
The Unheard Stories of the Sidewalk Vendors of Tagbilaran City, Bohol, Philippines
Authors: Golosino Ernesto O.
Published: September 2012

Due to the unequal distribution of economic growth, the urban centers outrun the rural areas in terms of progress. This picture allures many of the low income individuals to congregate to the cities and urban hubs in search of quick money. Because of the mismatch between demand and supply of labor, they ended up becoming new entrants to the informal sector and conquer the sidewalks to earn a living. Their presence was ignored until contested space became an issue. Without their intentions, their encroachment on the roads and sidewalks created rivalry in terms of resource utilization. To assess the real score of the issue, this research was undertaken. It involves a combination of opinion survey, key informant interview and secondary data. It attempts to approach the issue in terms of political/legal, social and economic frameworks. The results indicated that street vending becomes a trade of people with no economic recourse. Politicians accord on and off if not whimsical mode of addressing the problems. Indeed, sidewalk vendors are not the real problem but only an index of a more sophisticated social imbalance. It is recommended that local government units must act swiftly in designing an effective intervention program. Keywords - unheard stories, sidewalk vendors, Tagbilaran City
Lunar Lies: The Impact of Informational Framing and Individual Differences in Shaping Conspiracist Beliefs About the Moon Landings
Authors: Swami VIREN , Pietschnig Jakob , Tran ULRICH S. , Nader INGO W. , Stieger Stefan , Voracek Martin
Published: September 2012

Two studies examined the role of informational framing and individual differences on acceptance of the moon landings conspiracy theory (CT). In Study 1, participants were randomly assigned to one of three experimental groups in which they were exposed to different forms of information about the moon landings CT. Results showed that information critical of the moon landings CT resulted in attenuated conspiracist beliefs and that information supportive of the CT resulted in stronger conspiracist beliefs. In addition, stronger belief in the moon landings CT was associated with participants' belief in other CTs and openness to experience. In Study 2, participants completed a survey measuring their belief in the moon landings CT and a range of individual difference factors. Results showed that acceptance of the moon landings CT was associated with the adoption of a conspiracist worldview and schizotypal tendencies. Possibilities for conceptualizing the functional roles played by CTs are discussed. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.