bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent Advances in Whale-Watching Research: 2010–2011
Authors: Scarpaci Carol , Parsons E. C. M.
Published: November 2012

Whale-watching research encompasses a wide variety of disciplines and fields of study, including monitoring the biological impacts of whale-watching activities on cetaceans and assessments of the effectiveness of whale-watching management and regulations, to the sociological and economic aspects of whale watching on communities hosting such activities. This article is the latest in a series of annual digests, which describes the variety and findings of whale-watching studies published in the year since June 2010.
Obtention de la nationalité et volonté d'intégration
Authors: de Jonghe Delphine , Doutrepont Marie
Published: November 2012

Actuellement, aucune preuve de leur intégration ou de leur volonté de s’intégrer dans la société belge n’est exigée des étrangers qui entreprennent les démarches visant à obtenir la nationalité belge. Au sens strict, une telle condition ne leur a été imposée que de 1985 à 2000. Toutefois, elle était déjà présente auparavant, sous d’autres formes, dans le droit belge. En outre, en dépit de sa suppression formelle en 2000, elle intervient toujours aujourd’hui de manière diffuse. Surtout, les récents débats au Parlement fédéral annoncent clairement un retour prochain du concept d’intégration dans le droit de la nationalité. L’évaluation de ce critère reposerait sur divers éléments : connaissance d’une des trois langues nationales, intégration sociale, participation économique ou participation à la vie de la communauté d’accueil… Le vote d’une nouvelle loi est attendu pour la rentrée parlementaire 2012. Outre une étude de la notion d’intégration dans le droit de la nationalité, de la naissance de l’État belge aux perspectives actuelles, le présent Courrier hebdomadaire livre une analyse des politiques d’intégration des étrangers mises en place par les entités fédérées. Il s’intéresse successivement à la politique d’accueil instaurée en 1996 par la Région wallonne et aujourd’hui en cours de révision, aux actuels projets de la COCOM et au parcours obligatoire d’intégration civique créé en 2003 par la Communauté flamande (inburgering) .
Novel Technique for Passing Tendon Grafts Through Bone Tunnels
Authors: Levy Jeffrey A. , Farber Gerald L. , Taylor Kenneth F.
Published: November 2012

Anatomic reconstruction in orthopedic surgery often requires the passage of soft tissue through bone tunnels. Difficulties may arise due to anatomic constraints surrounding the bone tunnels or the graft size. The authors present a novel technique for passing tendon grafts through bone tunnels that is simple, readily available, effective, and comparatively inexpensive.
Two-stage Revision Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Indications, Review, and Technique Demonstration
Authors: Johnson Darren L. , Coats Aaron C.
Published: November 2012

Revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction has inherent technical challenges not encountered during primary reconstruction. Prior tunnel placement and tunnel lysis can significantly alter graft fixation, compromising patient outcome. Preoperative recognition of patients with existing tunnel overlap and severe tunnel lysis will allow appropriate surgical planning and patient counseling, optimizing patient outcome. When single-stage revision is not possible in the presence of significant tunnel overlap and lysis, performing a 2-stage revision is recommended.
Template-directed Instrumentation in Total Knee Arthroplasty: Cost Savings Analysis
Authors: Hsu Andrew R. , Gross Christopher E. , Bhatia Sanjeev , Levine Brett R.
Published: November 2012

The use of digital radiography and templating software in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) continues to become more prevalent as the number of procedures performed increases every year. Template-directed instrumentation (TDI) is a novel approach to surgical planning that combines digital templating with limited intraoperative instruments. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the financial implications and radiographic outcomes of using TDI to direct instrumentation during primary TKA.

Over a 1-year period, 82 consecutive TKAs using TDI were retrospectively reviewed. Patient demographics and preoperative templated sizes of predicted components were recorded, and OrthoView digital planning software (OrthoView LLC, Jacksonville, Florida was used to determine the 2 most likely tibial and femoral component sizes for each case. This sizing information was used to direct component vendors to prepare 3 lightweight instrument trays based on these sizes. The sizes of implanted components and the number of total trays required were documented. A cost savings analysis was performed to compare TDI and non-TDI surgical expenses for TKA. In 80 (97%) of 82 cases, the prepared sizes determined by TDI using 3 instrument trays were sufficient. Preoperative templating correctly predicted the size of the tibial and femoral component sizes in 90% and 83% of cases, respectively. The average number of trays used with TDI was 3.0 (range, 3–5 trays) compared with 7.5 (range, 6–9 trays) used in 82 preceding non-TDI TKAs. Based on standard fees to sterilize and package implant trays (approximately $26 based on a survey of 10 orthopedic hospitals performing TKA), approximately $9612 was saved by using TDI over the 1-year study period.

Overall, digital templating and TDI were a simple and cost-effective approach when performing primary TKA.
Plating of Proximal Humeral Fractures
Authors: Martetschläger Frank , Siebenlist Sebastian , Weier Michael , Sandmann Gunther , Ahrens Philipp , Braun Karl , Elser Florian , Stöckle Ulrich , Freude Thomas
Published: November 2012

The optimal treatment for proximal humeral fractures is controversial. Few data exist concerning the influence of the surgical approach on the outcome. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes of proximal humeral fractures treated with locking plate fixation through a deltopectoral vs an anterolateral deltoid-splitting approach.

Of 86 patients who met the inclusion criteria, 70 were available for follow-up examination. Thirty-three patients were treated through a deltopectoral approach and 37 through an anterolateral deltoid-splitting approach. In all cases, open reduction and internal fixation with a PHILOS locking plate (Synthes, Umkirch, Germany) was performed. Clinical follow-up included evaluation of pain, shoulder mobility, and strength. Constant score and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score were assessed. A clinical neurological examination of the axillary nerve was also performed. Consolidation, reduction, and appearance of head necrosis were evaluated radiographically. After a mean follow-up of 33 months, Constant scores, DASH scores, and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores showed no significant differences between the groups. Clinical neurologic examination of the axillary nerve revealed no obvious damage to the nerve in either group.

Deltopectoral and anterolateral detoid-splitting approaches for plate fixation of proximal humeral fractures are safe and provide similar clinical outcomes. The results of this study suggest that the approach can be chosen according to surgeon preference.
Relationship Between Implant Use, Operative Time, and Costs Associated With Distal Biceps Tendon Reattachment
Authors: Grant John A. , Bissell Benjamin , Hake Mark E. , Miller Bruce S. , Hughes Richard E. , Carpenter James E.
Published: November 2012

The suture anchor and transosseous drill hole techniques for reattachment of the distal biceps tendon to the radius have been found to have similar clinical and biomechanical outcomes. However, a comparison of the cost effectiveness of these techniques is lacking. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the use of suture anchors decreases operative time enough to offset the additional cost of the implants. The records of all patients undergoing a distal biceps tendon reattachment were reviewed to determine the method of fixation, operative time, and associated surgical costs. Two surgeons used a technique of fixing the tendon directly to the bone (transosseous group), whereas 3 surgeons used suture anchors. Given the standard nature of the surgical procedure (other than the fixation technique), only the costs that differed between the 2 groups were included. Surgical center costs were obtained from the local outpatient surgical center in 2011 US dollars. Five surgeons treated 70 men (mean age, 45.9±9.2 years). Mean time from injury to surgery was 14 days. Mean operative times for the transosseous and suture anchor groups were 97.6±14.9 and 95.8±25.8 minutes, respectively (
P
=.74). Two anchors were used in 79% of the anchor cases. The use of anchors cost $474.33 more per patient. However, this value is sensitive to the cost of the individual anchors, intersurgeon variation in operative time, and per-minute value of saved operative time. No operative time was saved with the use of suture anchors. This cost comparison framework can be used to evaluate the balance in surgical resource use due to implant cost vs savings in operative time.
Effect of Work-hour Restrictions and Resident Turnover in Orthopedic Trauma
Authors: Aynardi Michael , Miller Adam G. , Orozco Fabio , Ong Alvin
Published: November 2012

The resident 80-hour workweek and the July phenomenon have raised concern regarding the continuity of care of orthopedic patients in teaching institutions and its effect on postoperative complications and mortality. This study examined the effect of resident work-hour restrictions and the July phenomenon on patient outcomes after hip fracture at a large academic institution.

Seven hundred twenty-two patients (mean age, 76.7 years) sustaining 319 femoral neck fractures and 403 intertrochanteric fractures between 2000 and 2010 were identified. Analysis was performed before and after July 1, 2003, as well as for the month of treatment. No difference existed in the postoperative outcome measures of delay of surgery (
P
=.061), complications (
P
=.904), and mortality (
P
=.981) between patients treated before and after July 1, 2003. Patients treated after July 1, 2003, had a significantly higher median number of preoperative comorbidities (4 vs 3, respectively;
P
<.0005). Turnover months, July and August, showed no difference in the outcome measures of delay of surgery (
P
=.171), complications (
P
=.776), and mortality (
P
=.524) compared with other months.

This study suggests that 80-hour workweek restrictions or resident turnover months have no effect on patient care with respect to in-hospital time to surgery, complications, and mortality. This success can be attributed to ancillary staff support, physician extenders, and well-designed patient care protocols.
Level of Billing as a Function of Resident Documentation and Orthopedic Subspecialty at an Academic Multispecialty Orthopedic Surgery Practice
Authors: Dezfuli Bobby , Smith Jordan L.
Published: November 2012

Documentation, coding, and billing for physician–patient encounters have evolved over time and have significant variability. Appropriate and complete documentation of these encounters can contribute to the financial viability of private and academic medical centers. The objectives of this study were to assess the financial effect of documentation on billing and to compare the authors’ institution’s distribution of billing level compared with Medicare normative data.

Four orthopedic surgery subspecialty clinics were evaluated at a university outpatient clinic over a 1-year period. A single full-day clinic per week was used for each subspecialty. Residents dictated the majority of the reports. All reports were transcribed by medical transcriptionists and coded by certified professional coders. The sports medicine subspecialty generated the highest volume of patient clinic visits, followed by foot and ankle, trauma, and spine (
P
<.01). The majority of the reports were billed at level 3 (
P
<.05). Significant differences existed between subspecialty and percentage distribution of billing level (
P
<.05). Compared with Medicare normative data, a significantly greater percentage of level 3 reports and a lower percentage of level 2 and 4 reports existed in the orthopedic practice (
P
<.01). The estimated loss of revenue from the fewer level 4 reports was $81,281.11 for 1 year. These findings highlight the need for greater educational interventions to improve provider documentation, coding, and billing. The effect of new electronic medical record systems that prompt providers to include key evaluation and management components will likely affect practices and warrant further analysis.
Paradoxical Cerebral Embolism After Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Hill Brian W. , Huang Hanwei , Li Mengnai
Published: November 2012

Deep vein thrombosis is a frequent complication following total joint arthroplasty and other major orthopedic procedures. Pulmonary embolism occurs with or without a diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis, although infrequently (1.5%–10%). In patients with congenital cardiac defects, such as a patent foramen ovale, paradoxical cerebral embolism may also occur. This article describes a case of a 52-year-old woman who sustained a paradoxical cerebral embolism following total knee arthroplasty.

In the workup of a patient with a known murmur and stroke symptoms, paradoxical cerebral embolism should be included in the differential. The initial evaluation should incorporate transesophageal echocardiography because of its accuracy in the demonstration of the cardiac physiology. An abnormal intracardiac or intrapulmonary shunt is essential for paradoxical cerebral embolism, allowing the entrance of the thrombus into cerebral circulation from the venous system. No clear consensus has been reached on the management of patients at risk for paradoxical cerebral embolism prior to orthopedic procedures. However, when an embolic stroke is diagnosed acutely, ideal management includes thrombolytic therapy, but further research is needed to confirm that this is the correct management. Due to the risk of recurrence, postoperative thromboprophylaxis is recommended with or without closure of the foramen ovale. Most importantly, and as demonstrated by the current patient, who partially recovered but did not require walking assistance after 2-year follow-up, treating physicians should be prepared to counsel patients through a lengthened physical rehabilitative process.
Total Knee Arthroplasty in a Patient With Skeletal Fluorosis
Authors: Paiste Mark , Levine Mathew , Bono James V.
Published: November 2012

Published reports on patients with skeletal fluorosis undergoing total knee arthroplasty are rare. Skeletal fluorosis is a chronic condition that occurs secondary to the ingestion of food and water that contain high levels of fluoride. Although fluorosis may be described as osteosclerotic and marble-like in appearance, features may also include characteristics of osteomalacia and osteoporosis.

This article describes the case of a 67-year-old man with skeletal fluorosis who underwent total knee arthroplasty complicated by fracture. An intramedullary guide was used for the proximal tibia and distal femoral bone cuts intraoperatively. Following the completion of the femoral bone cuts, it was noted that the drill used to open the femoral canal had breached the medial femoral cortex. Multiple fractures were seen in both femoral condyles. A revision femoral stem was chosen to complete the total knee arthroplasty but, after further manipulation of the femur, it appeared that the fracture had displaced. A LISS plate (Synthes, West Chester, Pennsylvania) was used to ensure fracture reduction and implant stability. The remainder of the procedure was completed without complication. One year postoperatively, functional knee range of motion was limited to 70° of flexion. Radiographs showed signs of healing and satisfactory implant position.

This case highlights the importance of the preoperative examination and the need to fully appreciate the bone quality of patients prior to undertaking an orthopedic procedure. Variation from the use of intramedullary guides should be considered in patients with questionable bone quality undergoing total knee arthroplasty.
Pulmonary Embolism After Shoulder Arthroscopy
Authors: Edgar Richard , Nagda Sameer , Huffman Russell , Namdari Surena
Published: November 2012

Deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism events are common complications following lower-extremity orthopedic surgery. Conversely, deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism events are rare following upper-extremity surgery, specifically shoulder arthroscopy. The purpose of this article is to emphasize the necessity of performing a thorough preoperative workup to uncover possible risk factors for deep venous thrombosis/pulmonary embolism despite the rare occurrence of developing a pulmonary embolism following shoulder arthroscopy.

This article describes 3 patients who developed a nonfatal pulmonary embolism following elective shoulder arthroscopy. All 3 surgeries were performed with the patient in the lateral decubitus position. No complications were noted intraoperatively. Symptoms appeared at postoperative days 14, 29, and 2, respectively. One patient demonstrated no risk factors for developing a pulmonary embolism, whereas the other 2 exhibited risk factors for deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.

Pulmonary embolism is a rare but serious complication following shoulder arthroscopy. Shoulder surgeons should be aware of the presenting signs and symptoms. Mechanical or chemical prophylaxis should be administered for patients with identified coagulopathic risk factors. Although it is rare for patients to develop a pulmonary embolism following upper-extremity shoulder arthroscopy, orthopedic surgeons must be aware of the possibility that a pulmonary embolism can occur after elective, uncomplicated shoulder arthroscopy. Surgeons should consider prophylactic measures for patients with identified coagulopathy disorders.
Los beneficios parroquiales: un acercamiento al estudio del clero secular
Authors: Pérez González Silvia María
Published: November 2012

Las escribanías públicas sevillanas durante el periodo estudiado (1441-1504) tuvieron entre sus clientes más activos a un número destacado de miembros del clero secular. Ello nos ha permitido descender al nivel del clero de las parroquias para estudiarlo desde el punto de vista del beneficio parroquial gozado. La imagen obtenida del beneficio es la de una propiedad más dentro del patrimonio clerical, susceptible de cualquier negocio.
Aproximación a la «baja laboral» en el siglo XVIII. El «puncto de quartanario» en la Catedral Burgalesa
Authors: Sanz de la Higuera Francisco José
Published: November 2012

Los componentes del Cabildo catedralicio tenían el privilegio añadido de gozar de las atenciones profesionales de, al menos, un médico, contratado en exclusiva para el cuidado de su salud. Las Actas capitulares anotan sus bajas por enfermedad, los diagnósticos, tratamientos y particularidades de sus patologías y las circunstancias que acompañaban al proceso de su «Punto de Quartanario». Las certificaciones de los galenos eran sometidas a la aprobación de sus compadres, tanto para la primera ausencia como para las posteriores ampliaciones.
Preocupaciones terrenas en una cofradía. Las ánimas benditas del purgatorio de Jujuy en el período colonial
Authors: Normando Cruz Enrique
Published: November 2012

En este artículo se analiza la cofradía de las Ánimas Benditas del Purgatorio de Jujuy (sur del Charcas), teniendo en cuenta los testamentos e inventarios de bienes del siglo XVIII. En los que se observó que las preocupaciones principales fueron la adquisición y aumento de bienes y recursos, la elección de autoridades, y la participación en el mercantilismo local.
Effect of Soil Physical and Water Stress on Biochemical Aspects of Coconut Seedlings (Cocos nucifera) in Sri Lanka
Authors: Arachchi LP Vidhana , Arachchi VRM Vidhana , Epasinghe ESP
Published: November 2012

Soil physical and water stress conditions adversely affect the biochemical aspects of coco­nut production. Field experiments were conducted in Madampe and Andigama soil series, to investigate the ATPase activity, starch conversion to glucose and accumulation of proline in leaves, absorption cells and respiratory organs of coconut roots and their interrelationships with respect to soil physical and water stress. After one and half years of the establishment of coconut seedlings in different horizons of both series, the moisture contents at three depletion levels viz.10 kPa to 30 kPa, 10 kPa to 100 kPa and 10 kPa to 1500 kPa were maintained using tensiometers and neutron scatteringtechnique in order to create moisture stress around root zone of coconut seedlings during the dry period. Detailed soil physical analysis showed that soil compaction limits the aeration and available water retention in soil horizons of both series. Evaluation of biochemical properties showed that the highest ATPase activity and starch con­version to glucose in leaves and absorption zone of coconut roots was observed in the B horizon of Madampe series at field capacity moisture level (10 kPa to 30 kPa suction), while the lowest activity was observed in the A horizon of Madampe series and B horizon of Andigama series at high water stress condition (100 kPa to 1500 kPa suction). However, the highest ATPase activ­ity and starch conversion rate was observed in respiratory organs in A horizon of Madampe series. Moreover, the starch and proline accumulation in different parts of coconut seedling positively related with soil physical and water stress conditions (100-1500 kPa) prevalence in ‘A’ and ‘B’ horizons of Madampe and Andigama series respectively.The Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2012, vol.7, no3, page 108-126 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/jas.v7i3.4875
Genetic and Evolutionaty Relationship Among Nicotiana Secies as Elucidated by AFLP
Authors: Raju K Siva , Sharma RK , Murthy TGK
Published: November 2012

Twenty two species representing three subgenera of the genus Nicotiana and two interspecific hybrids were analysed by AFLP. A total of 554 bands were amplified by 6 primer pairs, of which 541 (97.65%) were polymorphic and 13 (2.34%) monomorphic. The primer combination E-AAC/M-CTG gave the highest polymorphic information content (PIC) across all species, whereas E-AAG/M-CAC gave the lowest PIC score. A total of 59 species specific markers were generated, of which 54, 4 and 1 were specific to subgenera Petunioides, Tabacum and Rustica respectively. The pair-wise similarity measure in the species of subgenus Rustica was 0.35 whereas it was 0.29-0.50 in subgenus Tabacum, suggesting that there was significant diversity among the species of these subgenera. In the species of subgenus Petunioides, the range of pair-wise similarity measure was 0.25 to 0.95. The high genetic similarity (95%) was due close relationship among the species belonging to the sections Rependae and Trigonophyllae. Sub-grouping of the species within the main clusters of dendrogram was largely based on the chromosome number. AFLP was found efficient in determining the extent of interspecific genetic diversity existing in genus Nicotiana. The subgenus and species specific AFLP markers identified in this study would be useful in introgression breeding programs of tobacco. N. tabacum shared 174/198 AFLP fragments with the two progenitor species, thus providing molecular evidence that these two wild species contributed genetic information to N. tabacum. The Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2012, vol.7, no3, page 135-144 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/jas.v7i3.4877
Associations of Circulating Inflammatory Biomarkers with Risk Factors for Colorectal Cancer in Colorectal Adenoma Patients
Authors: Hopkins Myfanwy H. , Flanders W. Dana , Bostick Roberd M.
Published: November 2012

Obesity and central adiposity are associated with colorectal cancer risk and have been linked to inflammation. Inflammation is a complex, interactive response that may most accurately be summarized through multiple, simultaneously measured cytokines. In this cross-sectional analysis, we investigated associations of circulating plasma levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and a combined inflammation z score with risk factors for colorectal cancer in colorectal adenoma patients (n = 92). Multivariable logistic regression was used to investigate associations between cytokine levels and known risk factors for colorectal neoplasms. Mean cytokine levels tended to increase with increasing body mass index (BMI), with statistically significant trends in relation to CRP, IL-6, and the combined inflammation z score ( P for trend < 0.001, 0.02, and <0.001, respectively). The odds ratios for associations of the inflammation z score with being overweight (BMI 25–29.9 kg/m2), obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2), or having a high waist-to-hip ratio were 4.33 (95% CI [confidence interval], 1.04–18.00), 5.54 (95% CI, 1.37–22.42), and 4.09 (95% CI, 1.67–9.98), respectively. Our findings support (1) associations of inflammation with increased general and central adiposity and (2) investigation of a combined inflammation score as a risk factor for colorectal neoplasms.
Contributions of individual reactive biogenic volatile organic compounds to organic nitrates above a mixed forest
Authors: Pratt K. A. , Mielke L. H. , Shepson P. B. , Bryan A. M. , Steiner A. L. , Ortega J. , Daly R. , Helmig D. , Vogel C. S. , Griffith S. , Dusanter S. , Stevens P. S. , Alaghmand M.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. Biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) can react in the atmosphere to form organic nitrates, which serve as NOx (NO + NO2) reservoirs, impacting ozone and secondary organic aerosol production, the oxidative capacity of the atmosphere, and nitrogen availability to ecosystems. To examine the contributions of biogenic emissions and the formation and fate of organic nitrates in a forest environment, we simulated the oxidation of 57 individual BVOCs emitted from a rural mixed forest in northern Michigan. Key BVOC-oxidant reactions were identified for future laboratory and field investigations into reaction rate constants, yields, and speciation of oxidation products. Of the total simulated organic nitrates, monoterpenes contributed ~70% in the early morning at ~12 m above the forest canopy when isoprene emissions were low. In the afternoon, when vertical mixing and isoprene nitrate production were highest, the simulated contribution of isoprene-derived organic nitrates was greater than 90% at all altitudes, with the concentration of secondary isoprene nitrates increasing with altitude. Notably, reaction of isoprene with NO3 leading to isoprene nitrate formation was found to be significant (~8% of primary organic nitrate production) during the daytime, and monoterpene reactions with NO3 were simulated to comprise up to ~83% of primary organic nitrate production at night. Lastly, forest succession, wherein aspen trees are being replaced by pine and maple trees, was predicted to lead to increased afternoon concentrations of monoterpene-derived organic nitrates. This further underscores the need to understand the formation and fate of these species, which have different chemical pathways and oxidation products compared to isoprene-derived organic nitrates and can lead to secondary organic aerosol formation.
Fall speed measurement and high-resolution multi-angle photography of hydrometeors in free fall
Authors: Garrett T. J. , Fallgatter C. , Shkurko K. , Howlett D.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. We describe here a new instrument for imaging hydrometeors in free fall. The Multi-Angle Snowflake Camera (MASC) captures high-resolution photographs of hydrometeors from three angles while simultaneously measuring their fall speed. Based on the stereoscopic photographs captured over the two months of continuous measurements obtained at a high altitude location within the Wasatch Front in Utah, we derive statistics for fall speed, hydrometeor size, shape, orientation and aspect ratio. From a selection of the photographed hydrometeors, an illustration is provided for how the instrument might be used for making improved microwave scattering calculations. Complex, aggregated snowflake shapes appear to be more strongly forward scattering, at the expense of reduced back-scatter, than heavily rimed graupel particles of similar size.
A novel rocket-based in-situ collection technique for mesospheric and stratospheric aerosol particles
Authors: Reid W. , Achtert P. , Ivchenko N. , Magnusson P. , Kuremyr T. , Shepenkov V. , Tibert G.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. A technique for collecting aerosol particles between altitudes of 85 and 17 km is described. Collection probes are ejected from a sounding rocket allowing for multi-point measurements. Each probe is equipped with 110 collection samples that are 3 mm in diameter. The collection samples are one of three types: standard transmission electron microscopy carbon grids, glass fibre filter paper or silicone gel. Each collection sample is exposed over a 50 m to 5 km height range with a total of 45 separate ranges. Post-flight electron microscopy gives size-resolved information on particle number, shape and elemental composition. Each collection probe is equipped with a suite of sensors to capture the probe's status during the fall. Parachute recovery systems along with GPS-based localization ensure that each probe can be located and recovered for post-flight analysis.
Marine carbonate system evolution during the EPOCA Arctic pelagic ecosystem experiment in the context of simulated Arctic ocean acidification
Authors: Bellerby R. G. J. , Silyakova A. , Nondal G. , Slagstad D. , Czerny J. , de Lange T. , Ludwig A.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. A major, potential stressor of marine systems is the changing water chemistry following increasing seawater carbon dioxide concentration (CO2), commonly termed ocean acidification. In order to understand how an Arctic pelagic ecosystem may respond to future CO2, a deliberate ocean acidification and nutrient perturbation study was undertaken in an Arctic fjord. The initial setting and evolution of seawater carbonate chemistry were investigated. Additions of carbon dioxide resulted in a wide range of ocean acidification scenarios. This study documents the changes to the CO2 system throughout the study following net biological consumption and gas exchange with the atmosphere. In light of the common practice of extrapolating results to cover regions away from experimental conditions, a modelling study was also performed to assess the representativeness, in the context of the simulated present and future carbonate system, of the experimental study region to both the near and wider Arctic region. The mesocosm experiment represented the range of simulated marine carbonate system for the coming century and beyond (pCO2 to 1420 μatm) and thus extrapolations may be appropriate to ecosystems exhibiting similar levels of CO2 system drivers. However, as the regional ocean acidification was very heterogenous and did not follow changes in atmospheric CO2, care should be taken in extrapolating the mesocosm response to other regions based on atmospheric CO2 scenarios.
Microbial colonization of chasmoendolithic habitats in the hyper-arid zone of the Atacama Desert
Authors: DiRuggiero J. , Wierzchos J. , Robinson C. K. , Souterre T. , Ravel J. , Artieda O. , Souza-Egipsy V. , Ascaso C.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. Efforts in searching for microbial life in the driest part of Atacama Desert, Chile, revealed a small number of lithic habitats that can be considered as environmental refuges for life. In this study, we describe for the first time chasmoendolithic colonization of fissures and cracks of rhyolite-gypsum and calcite rocks collected in the hyper-arid zone of the desert. The use of high-throughput sequencing revealed that the Atacama rock communities comprised a few dominant phylotypes and a number of less abundant taxa representing the majority of the total community diversity. The chasmoendolithic communities were dominated by Chroococcidiopsis species cyanobacteria and supported a number of novel heterotrophic bacteria. Micro-climate data and geomorphic analysis of the mineral substrates suggested higher water availability in the calcite rocks in the form of enhanced water retention in the complex network of cracks and fissures of these rocks as well as increased occurrence of liquid water in the form of dewfall. These characteristics were associated with a diverse community of phototrophic and heterotrophic bacteria in the calcite chasmoendolithic ecosystem. This study is another example of the diversity of adaptive strategies at the limit for life and illustrates that rock colonization is controlled by a complex set of factors.
Modelling snow accumulation on Greenland in Eemian, glacial inception, and modern climates in a GCM
Authors: Punge H. J. , Gallée H. , Kageyama M. , Krinner G.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. Changing climate conditions on Greenland influence the snow accumulation rate and surface mass balance (SMB) on the ice sheet and, ultimately, its shape. This can in turn affect local climate via orography and albedo variations and, potentially, remote areas via changes in ocean circulation triggered by melt water or calving from the ice sheet. Examining these interactions in the IPSL global model requires improving the representation of snow at the ice sheet surface. In this paper, we present a new snow scheme implemented in LMDZ, the atmospheric component of the IPSL coupled model. We analyse surface climate and SMB on the Greenland ice sheet under insolation and oceanic boundary conditions for modern, but also for two different past climates, the last glacial inception (115 kyr BP) and the Eemian (126 kyr BP). While being limited by the low resolution of the general circulation model (GCM), present-day SMB is on the same order of magnitude as recent regional model findings. It is affected by a moist bias of the GCM in Western Greenland and a dry bias in the north-east. Under Eemian conditions, the SMB decreases largely, and melting affects areas in which the ice sheet surface is today at high altitude, including recent ice core drilling sites as NEEM. In contrast, glacial inception conditions lead to a higher mass balance overall due to the reduced melting in the colder summer climate. Compared to the widely applied positive degree-day (PDD) parameterization of SMB, our direct modelling results suggest a weaker sensitivity of SMB to changing climatic forcing. For the Eemian climate, our model simulations using interannually varying monthly mean forcings for the ocean surface temperature and sea ice cover lead to significantly higher SMB in southern Greenland compared to simulations forced with climatological monthly means.
Leakages and pressure relation: an experimental research
Authors: De Paola F. , Giugni M.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. Leaks in water systems are presently a frequent and increasing event that involves cost increase and poor service, not compliant to quality standards and modern management criteria. The most recent data available in Italy, resumed into the report issued by Control Committee for Water Resources Use (CONVIRI), shows leakages with an average value of 37%. It is therefore important, for maintenance perspective, to investigate occurrence and evolution of water leaks and the analytical link between leaks Qp and network pressure P, for a reliable calibration of water networks quali-quantitative simulation models. The present work reports the first results of an experimental campaign started at Laboratory of Hydraulics of Department of Hydraulics, Geotechnical and Environmental Engineering of University of Naples Federico II in order to analyze the features of Qp(P) relation, which are compared with other results issued in literature.
A comprehensive approach to analyze discrepancies between land surface models and in-situ measurements: a case study over the US and Illinois with SECHIBA forced by NLDAS
Authors: Guimberteau M. , Perrier A. , Laval K. , Polcher J.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. The purpose of this study is to test the ability of the Land Surface Model SECHIBA to simulate water budget and particularly soil moisture at two different scales: regional and local. The model is forced by NLDAS data set at 1/8th degree resolution over the 1997–1999 period. SECHIBA gives satisfying results in terms of evapotranspiration and runoff over the US compared with four other land surface models, all forced by NLDAS data set for a common time period. The simulated soil moisture is compared to in-situ data from the Global Soil Moisture Database across Illinois by computing a soil wetness index. A comprehensive approach is performed to test the ability of SECHIBA to simulate soil moisture with a gradual change of the vegetation parameters closely related to the experimental conditions. With default values of vegetation parameters, the model overestimates soil moisture, particularly during summer. Sensitivity tests of the model to the change of vegetation parameters show that the roots extraction parameter has the largest impact on soil moisture, other parameters such as LAI, height or soil resistance having a minor impact. Moreover, a new evapotranspiration computation including bare soil evaporation under vegetation has been introduced into the model. The results point out an improvement of the soil moisture simulation when this effect is taken into account. Finally, soil moisture sensitivity to precipitation variation is addressed and it is shown that soil moisture observations can be rather different, depending on the method of measuring field capacity. When the observed field capacity is deducted from the observed volumetric water profiles, simulated soil wetness index is closer to the observations.
Drought risk assessments of water resources systems under climate change: a case study in Southern Taiwan
Authors: Yang T. C. , Chen C. , Kuo C. M. , Tseng H. W. , Yu P. S.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. This study aims at assessing the impact of climate change on drought risk in a water resources system in Southern Taiwan by integrating the weather generator, hydrological model and simulation model of reservoir operation. Three composite indices with multi-aspect measurements of reservoir performance (i.e. reliability, resilience and vulnerability) were compared by their monotonic behaviors to find a suitable one for the study area. The suitable performance index was then validated by the historical drought events and proven to have the capability of being a drought risk index in the study area. The downscaling results under A1B emission scenario from seven general circulation models were used in this work. The projected results show that the average monthly mean inflows during the dry season tend to decrease from the baseline period (1980–1999) to the future period (2020–2039); the average monthly mean inflows during the wet season may increase/decrease in the future. Based on the drought risk index, the analysis results for public and agricultural water uses show that the occurrence frequency of drought may increase and the severity of drought may be more serious during the future period than during the baseline period, which makes a big challenge on water supply and allocation for the authorities of reservoir in Southern Taiwan.
Theoretical framework to estimate spatially averaged rainfalls conditional on river discharges and point rainfall measurements from a single location: an application to Western Greece
Authors: Langousis A. , Kaleris V.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. We focus on the special case of catchments covered by a single raingauge, and develop a theoretical framework to obtain estimates of spatial rainfall averages conditional on rainfall measurements from a single location, and the flow conditions at the catchment outlet. In doing so we use: (a) statistical tools to identify and correct inconsistencies between daily rainfall occurrence and amount and the flow conditions at the outlet of the basin, (b) concepts from multifractal theory to relate the fraction of wet intervals in point rainfall measurements and that in spatial rainfall averages, while accounting for the shape and size of the catchment, the size, lifetime and advection velocity of rainfall generating features and the location of the raingauge inside the basin, and (c) semi-theoretical arguments to assure consistency between rainfall and runoff volumes at an inter-annual level, implicitly accounting for spatial heterogeneities of rainfall caused by orographic influences. In an application study, using point rainfall records from Glafkos river basin in Western Greece, we find the suggested approach to demonstrate significant skill in resolving rainfall-runoff incompatibilities at a daily level, while reproducing the statistics of spatial rainfall averages at both monthly and annual time scales, independently of the location of the raingauge and the magnitude of the observed deviations between point rainfall measurements and spatial rainfall averages. The developed scheme should serve as an important tool for the effective calibration of rainfall-runoff models in basins covered by a single raingauge and, also, improve hydrologic impact assessment at a river basin level under changing climatic conditions.
A critical assessment of the JULES land surface model hydrology for humid tropical environments
Authors: Zulkafli Z. , Buytaert W. , Onof C. , Lavado W. , Guyot J. L.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. Global land surface models (LSMs) such as the Joint UK Land Environment Simulator (JULES) are originally developed to provide surface boundary conditions for climate models. They are increasingly used for hydrological simulation, for instance to simulate the impacts of land-use changes and other perturbations on the water cycle. This study investigates how well such models represent the major hydrological fluxes at the relevant spatial and temporal scales – an important question for reliable model applications in poorly understood, data-scarce environments. The JULES-LSM is implemented in a 360 000 km2 humid tropical mountain basin of the Peruvian Andes–Amazon at 12 km grid resolution, forced with daily satellite and climate reanalysis data. The simulations are evaluated using conventional discharge-based evaluation methods, and by further comparing the magnitude and internal variability of the basin surface fluxes such as evapotranspiration, throughfall, and surface and subsurface runoff, of the model with those observed in similar environments elsewhere. We find reasonably positive model efficiencies and high correlations between the simulated and observed streamflows, but high root-mean-square errors affecting the performance in smaller, upper sub-basins. We attribute this to errors in the water balance and JULES-LSM's inability to model baseflow. We also found a tendency to underrepresent the high evapotranspiration rates of the region. We conclude that strategies to improve the representation of tropical systems to be (1) addressing errors in the forcing (2) incorporating local wetland and regional floodplain in the subsurface representation.
Evaluation of numerical weather prediction model precipitation forecasts for use in short-term streamflow forecasting
Authors: Shrestha D. L. , Robertson D. E. , Wang Q. J. , Pagano T. C. , Hapuarachchi P.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. The quality of precipitation forecasts from four Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) models is evaluated over the Ovens catchment in southeast Australia. Precipitation forecasts are compared with observed precipitation at point and catchment scales and at different temporal resolutions. The four models evaluated are the Australian Community Climate Earth-System Simulator (ACCESS) including ACCESS-G with a 80 km resolution, ACCESS-R 37.5 km, ACCESS-A 12 km, and ACCESS-VT 5 km. The high spatial resolution NWP models (ACCESS-A and ACCESS-VT) appear to be relatively free of bias (i.e. <30%) for 24 h total precipitation forecasts. The low resolution models (ACCESS-R and ACCESS-G) have widespread systematic biases as large as 70%. When evaluated at finer spatial and temporal resolution (e.g. 5 km, hourly) against station observations, the precipitation forecasts appear to have very little skill. There is moderate skill at short lead times when the forecasts are averaged up to daily and/or catchment scale. The skill decreases with increasing lead times and the global model ACCESS-G does not have significant skill beyond 7 days. The precipitation forecasts fail to produce a diurnal cycle shown in observed precipitation. Significant sampling uncertainty in the skill scores suggests that more data are required to get a reliable evaluation of the forecasts. Future work is planned to assess the benefits of using the NWP rainfall forecasts for short-term streamflow forecasting. Our findings here suggest that it is necessary to remove the systematic biases in rainfall forecasts, particularly those from low resolution models, before the rainfall forecasts can be used for streamflow forecasting.
Aberrant Genes Promoter Methylation in Neural Crest-Derived Tumors
Authors: La Torre Annamaria , Muscarella Lucia Anna , Parrella Paola , Balsamo Teresa , Bisceglia Michele , Valori Vanna Maria , La Torre Antonella , Barbano Raffaela , Perrella Eleonora , Poeta Maria Luana , Melchionda Gennaro , Merla Giuseppe , Maiello Evaristo , Pellicano Riccardo , Fazio Vito Michele
Published: November 2012

Disturbances in the epigenetic landscape by aberrant methylation of CpG islands can lead to inactivation of cancer-related genes in solid tumors. We analyzed the promoter methylation status of 6 genes previously reported as cancer-specific methylated (MCAM, SSBP2, NISCH, B4GALT1, KIF1A and RASSF1A) in 38 neural crest-derived tumors by quantitative methylation-specific real-time PCR (QMSP). The results demonstrated that the determination of the methylation status of RASSF1A is able to distinguish between normal and tumor samples in cutaneous melanomas, lung carcinoids and small bowel carcinoids. MCAM methylation levels were significantly higher in lung carcinoids tumors (p=0.001), suggesting that this alteration may represent a molecular biomarker in this tumor type.
Expression and significance of vascular endothelial growth factor C from multiple specimen sources in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Wei , Zhang Mingxin , Zhou Bin , Jia Zhuoqi , Qiao Zhe , Zhang Jin
Published: November 2012

Background

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a common malignancy with a very poor prognosis. Vascular endothelial growth factor C (VEGF-C) plays an important role in angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis. This study was designed to analyze the correlation of VEGF-C expression with clinicopathological features and survival in multiple specimen sources from patients with ESCC.

Material and methods

The expression of VEGF-C in tissues (tVEGF-C), serum (sVEGF-C), and lymph fluid (lVEGF-C) from 48 patients with ESCC was detected by different methods.

Results

There were significant correlations between a high level of tVEGF-C expression and tumor differentiation, tumor depth, lymph node metastasis, TNM stage and metastasis. sVEGF-C was only significantly related to lymph node metastasis, TNM stage and metastasis. The results of lVEGF-C expression were similar to those of tVEGG-C expression, but no relationship to tumor depth was found. High expression levels of tVEGF-C, sVEGF-C and lVEGF-C were significantly associated with shorter overall survival times in univariate analysis (log-rank test).

Conclusions

The expression of VEGF-C in multiple specimen sources from patients with ESCC was associated with certain clinicopathological parameters. High expression of VEGF-C may be an important factor related to a poor prognosis of ESCC.