bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biodiversity of Thrips Species (Thysanoptera) on Flowering Herbs in Cracow, Poland
Authors: Pobożniak Maria , Anna Sobolewska
Published: October 2011

Biodiversity of Thrips Species (Thysanoptera) on Flowering Herbs in Cracow, Poland

Thrips specimens were collected from 2004 to 2006 from the Herb Collection of the Faculty of Horticulture, the Agricultural University in Cracow, Poland and from 2006 to 2008 from the Botanical Garden in Cracow, Poland. We collected 16,058 adult thrips belonging to 22 Thysanoptera taxa from the flowers and inflorescences of 37 species of herbs from both of the collections. Thrips species composition infesting the flowers and inflorescences of herbs were very similar and not dependent on the plant species and the area of research. Only the participation of particular species differed. The prevailing polyphagous species connected with flowers were:Thrips fuscipennis, Thrips flavus, Frankliniella intonsa, Thrips albopilosusandThrips major. Also, a high number ofThrips tabaciand random species connected with grass as well as predatory speciesAeolothripswere found. The flowers ofSalvia officinalis, Lavandula angustifolia, Nepeta catariaandArnica montanawere the most numerously infested by adult thrips.
Toxicity of Neonicotinoids to Ceratitis Capitata and Anastrepha Fraterculus (Diptera: Tephritidae)
Authors: Raga Adalton , Sato Mário
Published: October 2011

Toxicity of Neonicotinoids toCeratitis CapitataandAnastrepha Fraterculus(Diptera: Tephritidae)

The effects of imidacloprid and thiamethoxam againstCeratitis capitata(Wiedemann) andAnastrepha fraterculus(Wiedemann) adults were evaluated under broadcast spray and toxic bait systems in the laboratory. In general, whenC. capitataandA. fraterculuswere sprayed with insecticides, the time required for killing them was inversely proportional to the neonicotinoid concentrations. By cover spray, females and males ofA. fraterculuswere more susceptible to imidacloprid and thiamethoxam thanC. capitata, presenting significantly lower LT50. In the case of imidacloprid bait, no differences at LT50were detected between females or males of both fruit flies or between sexes of respective fruit fly species. In general,C. capitataandA. fraterculusadults died in all the toxic baits up to 7 days after application on citrus leaves in the field. The data emphasize the viability of the use of neonicotinoids for the control of fruit flies.
Analogue aerial-photopraphs external orientation reconstruction based on geoportal data
Authors: Dzieszko Piotr
Published: October 2011

Analogue aerial-photopraphs external orientation reconstruction based on geoportal data

For acquisition of source data for geoinformation analyses is necessary to do some field works. This way of data acquisition is time-consuming. In this case, photogrammetric and remote sensed methods can be more effective choice. Especially orthophotomap extracting is more effective process in creation of geodata. It is good foundation for further analysis and nice extension of existing geographical information systems. Despite fast growth of photogrammetry there are plenty of analogue, archival airphotos which can be used for geoinformation analysis. They are quiet up to date and scanned in very high resolution which means they can be used for really reliable analysis. The problem is very important because many of analogue, archival air photos do not contain photogrammetric warp. The aim of this paper is expression of applicability of geoportal webpage, which is part of INSPIRE directive, that can be used for external orientation reconstruction when there is no other georeference data.
Fulgoromorpha and Cicadomorpha (Hemiptera) infesting bracken (Pteridium aquilinum)
Authors: Halarewicz Aleksandra
Published: October 2011

Fulgoromorpha and Cicadomorpha (Hemiptera) infesting bracken (Pteridium aquilinum)

The abundance of six species of leafhoppers and planthoppers infesting bracken Pteridium aquilinum was determined in SW Poland. The paper describes the insects associated with the plant on the basis of their ecological characteristics. The population dynamics of the dominant species Ditropis pteridis Spinola (Delphacidae) is plotted.
Scythris sinensis (Felder & Rogenhofer, 1775) - the first record in Poland, and some new regional records of Scythrididae (Lepidoptera)
Authors: Malkiewicz Adam , Dobrzański Xavier
Published: October 2011

Scythris sinensis (Felder & Rogenhofer, 1775) - the first record in Poland, and some new regional records of Scythrididae (Lepidoptera)

Scythris sinensis (Felder & Rogenhofer, 1775) is recorded in Poland for the first time. Three other rarely encountered scythridid moths Scythris potentillella (Zeller), Scythris knochella (Fabricius), Scythris cicadella (Zeller) are given as new regional records. Comments on the distribution, biology and habitats of the moths are added.
New data on the Chironomidae (Diptera) of the Rif (Northern Morocco)
Authors: Kettani Kawtar , Langton Peter
Published: October 2011

New data on the Chironomidae (Diptera) of the Rif (Northern Morocco)

New collections of pupal exuviae of chironomids in various fresh water ecosystems in the Rif in the north of Morocco revealed an interesting inventory. The chironomid community collected is diverse enough and interesting, and rare species are present. Of a total of 141 identified taxa, 46 species have proved to be new for the Rif and 31 for Morocco. The chorological tendency is mainly Palaearctic and Mediterranean. The majority of the sites investigated belong to protected areas in the north of Morocco, such as SIBE Jbel Moussa, SIBE Jbel Tidirrhine, SIBE Jbel Bouhachem and Talassemtane National Park, which belong to the Intercontinental Reserve of the Mediterranean Biosphere.
Assessing predictors of pellet persistence in European rabbits Oryctolagus cuniculus: towards reliable population estimates from pellet counts
Authors: Fernandez‐de‐Simon Javier , Díaz‐Ruiz Francisco , Villafuerte Rafael , Delibes‐Mateos Miguel , Ferreras Pablo
Published: October 2011

The European rabbit Oryctolagus cuniculus is a key species in Mediterranean ecosystems of the Iberian Peninsula, and reliable methods for monitoring its abundance are urgently required. Although clearance plot pellet counts may be useful in monitoring rabbit populations, such counts are potentially affected by variation in the persistence of rabbit pellets. The aim of our study was to assess persistence of rabbit pellets in the Iberian Peninsula for reliable estimates of rabbit abundance from clearance plot counts. We carried out the experiment from July 2006 to November 2007 at seven localities in central southern Spain. Marked fresh pellets were monthly placed at experimental plots, and their persistence was monitored monthly. Persistence was estimated from the proportion of marked pellets remaining between consecutive counts. Independent variables in analysis included slope steepness, vegetation, rabbit and ungulate activity, meteorology and temporal variables. Persistence significantly varied among localities and seasons and with their interaction. The final model showed that pellet persistence was best explained by total rainfall between counts, and also included the time between visits and slope steepness and the interactions rainfall∗time between visits and rainfall∗slope. Our results suggest that estimating pellet persistence for each locality and season is necessary to make estimates obtained from different localities and months comparable. In the Mediterranean region, early summer at the start of the dry season would be the recommended time for yearly rabbit monitoring based on any pellet‐count index, since reduced rainfall favours pellet persistence. Sampling protocols must standardise the number of days between counts, and plots must be established in areas with gentle slope to maximise pellet persistence between counts.
Comparative Kinetic Study and Microwaves Non-Thermal Effects on the Formation of Poly(amic acid) 4,4′-(Hexafluoroisopropylidene)diphthalic Anhydride (6FDA) and 4,4′-(Hexafluoroisopropylidene)bis(p-phenyleneoxy)dianiline (BAPHF). Reaction Activated by Microwave, Ultrasound and Conventional Heating
Authors: Tellez Hugo Mendoza , Alquisira Joaquín Palacios , Alonso Carlos Rius , Cortés José Guadalupe López , Toledano Cecilio Alvarez
Published: October 2011

Green chemistry is the design of chemical processes that reduce or eliminate negative environmental impacts. The use and production of chemicals involve the reduction of waste products, non-toxic components, and improved efficiency. Green chemistry applies innovative scientific solutions in the use of new reagents, catalysts and non-classical modes of activation such as ultrasounds or microwaves. Kinetic behavior and non-thermal effect of poly(amic acid) synthesized from (6FDA) dianhydride and (BAPHF) diamine in a low microwave absorbing p-dioxane solvent at low temperature of 30, 50, 70 °C were studied, under conventional heating (CH), microwave (MW) and ultrasound irradiation (US). Results show that the polycondensation rate decreases (MW > US > CH) and that the increased rates observed with US and MW are due to decreased activation energies of the Arrhenius equation. Rate constant for a chemical process activated by conventional heating declines proportionally as the induction time increases, however, this behavior is not observed under microwave and ultrasound activation. We can say that in addition to the thermal microwave effect, a non-thermal microwave effect is present in the system.
Studies on Synthesis and Structure-Activity Relationship (SAR) of Derivatives of a New Natural Product from Marine Fungi as Inhibitors of Influenza Virus Neuraminidase
Authors: Li Jing , Zhang Dingmei , Zhu Xun , He Zhenjian , Liu Shu , Li Mengfeng , Pang Jiyan , Lin Yongcheng
Published: October 2011

Based on the natural isoprenyl phenyl ether from a mangrove-derived fungus, 32 analogues were synthesized and evaluated for inhibitory activity against influenza H1N1 neuraminidase. Compound 15 (3-(allyloxy)-4-hydroxybenzaldehyde) exhibited the most potent inhibitory activity, with IC50 values of 26.96 μM for A/GuangdongSB/01/2009 (H1N1), 27.73 μM for A/Guangdong/03/2009 (H1N1), and 25.13 μM for A/Guangdong/05/2009 (H1N1), respectively, which is stronger than the benzoic acid derivatives (~mM level). These are a new kind of non-nitrogenous aromatic ether Neuraminidase (NA) inhibitors. Their structures are simple and the synthesis routes are not complex. The structure-activity relationship (SAR) analysis revealed that the aryl aldehyde and unsubstituted hydroxyl were important to NA inhibitory activities. Molecular docking studies were carried out to explain the SAR of the compounds, and provided valuable information for further structure modification.
An Unexpected Reaction between 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural and Imidazolium-Based Ionic Liquids at High Temperatures
Authors: Zhang Zehui , Liu Wujun , Xie Haibo , Zhao Zongbao K.
Published: October 2011

A new compound was detected during the production of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) from glucose and cellulose in the ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride ([Bmim]Cl) at high temperatures. Further experiments found that it was derived from the reaction of HMF with [Bmim]Cl. The structure of new compound was established as 1-butyl-2-(5’-methyl-2’-furoyl)imidazole (BMI) based on nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry analysis, and a possible mechanism for its formation was proposed. Reactions of HMF with other imidazolium-based ionic liquids were performed to check the formation of BMI. Our results provided new insights in terms of side reactions between HMF and imidazolium-based ionic liquids, which should be valuable for designing better processes for the production of furans using biomass and related materials.
Coordination Polymers and Metal Organic Frameworks Derived from 1,2,4-Triazole Amino Acid Linkers
Authors: Naik Anil D. , Dîrtu Marinela M. , Railliet Antoine P. , Marchand-Brynaert Jacqueline , Garcia Yann
Published: October 2011

The perceptible appearance of biomolecules as prospective building blocks in the architecture of coordination polymers (CPs) and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are redolent of their inclusion in the synthon/tecton library of reticular chemistry. In this frame, for the first time a synthetic strategy has been established for amine derivatization in amino acids into 1,2,4-triazoles. A set of novel 1,2,4-triazole derivatized amino acids were introduced as superlative precursors in the design of 1D coordination polymers, 2D chiral helicates and 3D metal-organic frameworks. Applications associated with these compounds are diverse and include gas adsorption-porosity partitioning, soft sacrificial matrix for morphology and phase selective cadmium oxide synthesis, FeII spin crossover materials, zinc-b-lactamases inhibitors, logistics for generation of chiral/non-centrosymmetric networks; and thus led to a foundation of a new family of functional CPs and MOFs that are reviewed in this invited contribution.
Integration of Spirituality and Religion in the Care of Patients with Severe Mental Disorders
Authors: Mohr Sylvia
Published: October 2011

Spirituality and religiousness (S/R) are resources for finding meaning and hope in suffering and have been identified as key components in the process of psychological recovery. However, religion may also be associated with psycho-pathology, suffering and non-adherence with psychiatric treatment. Based on a literature review, this paper examines how S/R can be integrated in the treatment of patients with serious mental illness. We implemented a pilot “Spirituality and Recovery Group” designed to (1) help patients to resort to S/R as a means of recovery; (2) work on resolving conflicts between S/R and life issues and treatment; and (3) provide information on S/R in the context of psychosis. Preliminary results are presented.
Automated Data Quality Assessment of Marine Sensors
Authors: Timms Greg P. , De Souza Paulo A. , Reznik Leon , Smith Daniel V.
Published: October 2011

The automated collection of data (e.g., through sensor networks) has led to a massive increase in the quantity of environmental and other data available. The sheer quantity of data and growing need for real-time ingestion of sensor data (e.g., alerts and forecasts from physical models) means that automated Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) is necessary to ensure that the data collected is fit for purpose. Current automated QA/QC approaches provide assessments based upon hard classifications of the gathered data; often as a binary decision of good or bad data that fails to quantify our confidence in the data for use in different applications. We propose a novel framework for automated data quality assessments that uses Fuzzy Logic to provide a continuous scale of data quality. This continuous quality scale is then used to compute error bars upon the data, which quantify the data uncertainty and provide a more meaningful measure of the data’s fitness for purpose in a particular application compared with hard quality classifications. The design principles of the framework are presented and enable both data statistics and expert knowledge to be incorporated into the uncertainty assessment. We have implemented and tested the framework upon a real time platform of temperature and conductivity sensors that have been deployed to monitor the Derwent Estuary in Hobart, Australia. Results indicate that the error bars generated from the Fuzzy QA/QC implementation are in good agreement with the error bars manually encoded by a domain expert.
Intercomparisons of Nine Sky Brightness Detectors
Authors: Den Outer Peter , Lolkema Dorien , Haaima Marty , Hoff Rene van der , Spoelstra Henk , Schmidt Wim
Published: October 2011

Nine Sky Quality Meters (SQMs) have been intercompared during a night time measurement campaign held in the Netherlands in April 2011. Since then the nine SQMs have been distributed across the Netherlands and form the Dutch network for monitoring night sky brightness. The goal of the intercomparison was to infer mutual calibration factors and obtain insight into the variability of the SQMs under different meteorological situations. An ensemble average is built from the individual measurements and used as a reference to infer the mutual calibration factors. Data required additional synchronization prior to the calibration determination, because the effect of moving clouds combined with small misalignments emerges as time jitter in the measurements. Initial scatter of the individual instruments lies between ±14%. Individual night time sums range from −16% to +20%. Intercalibration reduces this to 0.5%, and −7% to +9%, respectively. During the campaign the smallest luminance measured was 0.657 ± 0.003 mcd/m2 on 12 April, and the largest value was 5.94 ± 0.03 mcd/m2 on 2 April. During both occurrences interfering circumstances like snow cover or moonlight were absent.
In vitro assessment of the immunomodulatory effects of multispecies probiotic formulations for management of allergic diseases
Authors: Rutten N.B.M.M. , Besseling-Van der Vaart I. , Klein M. , De Roock S. , Vlieger A. , Rijkers G.
Published: October 2011

Modulation of the composition of the intestinal microbiota with probiotics could possibly offer a way of prevention or management of allergic diseases. The objective of this study was to determine the immunomodulating effects of various multispecies probiotic combinationsin vitro, as preamble to applicationin vivo. Multispecies probiotic combinations were formulated and tested for their effects onin vitrocytokine production by human mononuclear cells and were compared to products that already have shown beneficial effectsin vivo. All 4 tested combinations of probiotics showed a 40-71% decrease of Th2 cytokine production (IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13) and a variable increase of Th1 (IFN-γ) and Treg cytokine (IL-10) production compared to the medium. A specific probiotic mixture that containedBifidobacterium breveW25,Bifidobacterium lactisATCC SD 5219,B. lactisATCC SD 5220,Lactobacillus plantarumW62,Lactobacillus salivariusW57 andLactococcus lactisW19 was superior in its stimulating effect on IL-10 production (significant better than the other tested combinations;P=0.001). Modulation ofin vitrocytokine production profiles can be used to differentiate between selected probiotic formulations for their immunomodulatory properties. In the future it should be demonstrated whether the immunomodulatory capacities from the multispecies probiotic formulation with the desired profile will be effectivein vivo(in adolescents, followed by application in children).
Interactive Computer Aided Learning and Teaching of Analytical Mechanics
Authors: Aan Aare , Heinloo Mati , Aarend Eino
Published: October 2011

  Normal 0   21   false false false  ET X-NONE X-NONE                           The aim of this paper is to introduce a new possibility for learning Analytical Mechanics via internet. This subject belongs to the field of engineering, the theoretical parts of lecture materials are available online in PDF format and have special links to switch on the interactive examples on the worksheets of the Computer Package Mathcad.
Enzymatic activity in turkey, duck, quail and chicken liver microsomes against four human cytochrome P450 prototype substrates and aflatoxin B1
Authors: Murcia Hansen W. , Díaz Gonzalo J. , Cepeda Sandra Milena
Published: October 2011

Cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYP) are a group of monooxygenases able to biotransform several kinds of xenobiotics including aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), a highly toxic mycotoxin. These enzymes have been widely studied in humans and others mammals, but there is not enough information in commercial poultry species about their biochemical characteristics or substrate specificity. The aim of the present study was to identify CYPs from avian liver microsomes with the use of prototype substrates specific for human CYP enzymes and AFB1. Biochemical characterization was carried out in vitro and biotransformation products were detected by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Enzymatic constants were calculated and comparisons between turkey, duck, quail and chicken activities were done. The results demonstrate the presence of four avian ortholog enzyme activities possibly related with a CYP1A1, CYP1A2, CYP2A6 (activity not previously identified) and CYP3A4 poultry orthologs, respectively. Large differences in enzyme kinetics specific for prototype substrates were found among the poultry species studied. Turkey liver microsomes had the highest affinity and catalytic rate for AFB1 whereas chicken enzymes had the lowest affinity and catalytic rate for the same substrate. Quail and duck microsomes showed intermediate values. These results correlate well with the known in vivo sensitivity for AFB1 except for the duck. A high correlation coefficient between 7-ethoxyresorufin-Odeethylase (EROD) and 7-methoxyresorufin- O-deethylase (MROD) activities was found in the four poultry species, suggesting that these two enzymatic activities might be carried out by the same enzyme. The results of the present study indicate that four prototype enzyme activities are present in poultry liver microsomes, possibly related with the presence of three CYP avian orthologs. More studies are needed in order to further characterize these enzymes.
Understanding the use of strategic intelligence as a strategic management tool in the long-term insurance industry in South Africa
Authors: Pellissier René , Kruger J-P.
Published: October 2011

The purpose of this research paper was to explore the extent to which strategic intelligence is utilised within the South African long-term insurance industry and whether it could be used to identify opportunities or threats within the global environment to remain competitive, create greater innovation, and corporate advantage.The paper obtained the qualitative views and opinions of strategic decision makers, on an executive managerial level within the South African long-term insurance industry, on their organisations use of strategic intelligence. It was found that there are marked differences in the conformity and usage of strategic intelligence and its components between the organisations surveyed, with a measurable difference between large and small organisations. It is, however, generally viewed that the use of a strategic intelligence framework could greatly enhance decision-making.Data collection for the research undertaken was limited to the 82 long-term insurance companies, which were registered with the South African Financial Services Board. More specifically the focus was on the organisations listed on the Johannesburg Securities Exchange within the Life Assurance sector, within which a final response rate of 36.1% was achieved, including the 100% response rate from the six listed organisations.By understanding the extent to which strategic intelligence is utilised in the South African longterminsurance industry, and the benefits or problems that are experienced by implementing and using strategic intelligence as an input to the strategic management process we can comprehend the value that strategic intelligence adds in the decision making process. The originality of this work concludes in the identification and utilisation of the most important factors of a strategic intelligence framework that will greatly enhance global corporate decisionmakingand result in competitive advantage and constant innovation within the South African business environment.
Self-evaluation, social and cognitive performance in children with social phobia
Authors: Krämer Martina , Schmitz Julian , Heinrichs Nina , Tuschen-Caffier Brunna
Published: October 2011

Cognitive models of Social Phobia (SP) assume that SP is not only associated with negative self-evaluation but also with impaired actual social and cognitive performance. However, relatively little is known about these aspects in children with SP. In our study, we investigated whether children with SP show differences in self-evaluation, as well as in social and cognitive performance during a social-evaluative situation. Therefore, a group of children aged 8 to 12 years with SP (DSM-IV; n = 35) and healthy control (HC) children (n = 35), individually matched by sex and age, was exposed to the Trier Social Stress Test for Children (TSST-C). After the speech task and the math task of the TSST-C, children were asked to evaluate their performance. In addition, observers rated their social performance on different dimensions as well as their cognitive performance. Results showed that children with SP evaluated their performance worse than HC children but did not differ in observer-rated nervous behaviors, micro social skills and cognitive performance. Borderline significant group differences could only be found in observer-rated global impression, illustrating that children with SP may differ from HC children during social stress mainly due to being perceived as having a less positive and friendly social appearance.
Processing Biases for Emotional Faces in 4- to 12-Year-Old Non-Clinical Children: An Exploratory Study of Developmental Patterns and Relationships with Social Anxiety and Behavioral Inhibition
Authors: Broeren Suzanne , Muris Peter , Bouwmeester Samantha , Field Andy P. , Voerman Jessica S.
Published: October 2011

The present study examined (a) processing biases for emotional facial stimuli in a sample of 355 4- to 12-year-old non-clinical children, (b) developmental patterns of such biases, and (c) to what extent biases were related to social anxiety and the temperamental trait of behavioral inhibition in children of various ages. Processing biases were assessed with a dot probe task and a dynamic emotion recognition paradigm (i.e., morph task), whereas children's levels of social anxiety and behavioral inhibition were measured by means of parent-report. Results showed that on the morph task children were generally faster in detecting happy faces compared to angry faces, and this effect was not qualified by age, social anxiety, or behavioral inhibition. Further analyses revealed no significant effect of age on bias scores. However, analyses did reveal two classes in the data with one class mainly consisting of younger children and the other class predominantly composed of older children: Younger children were in general slower, less accurate, and displayed more variance in their scores on the processing biases tasks than older children. Results of this study underline the need of the development and use of more age-appropriate, non-reaction time-based tasks for measuring processing bias in younger children.
Apparent oxygen utilization rates calculated from tritium and helium-3 profiles at the Bermuda Atlantic Time-series Study site
Authors: Stanley R. H. R. , Doney S. C. , Jenkins W. J. , Lott, III D. E.
Published: October 2011

Abstract. We present three years of Apparent Oxygen Utilization Rates (AOUR) estimated from oxygen and tracer data collected over the ocean thermocline at monthly resolution between 2003 and 2006 at the Bermuda Atlantic Time-series Study (BATS) site. We estimate water ages by calculating a transit time distribution from tritium and helium-3 data. The vertically integrated AOUR over the upper 500 m, which is a regional estimate of export, during the three years is 3.1 ± 0.5 mol O2 m−2 yr−1. This is comparable to previous AOUR-based estimates of export production at the BATS site but is several times larger than export estimates derived from sediment traps or 234Th fluxes. We compare AOUR determined in this study to AOUR measured in the 1980s and show AOUR is significantly greater today than decades earlier because of changes in AOU, rather than changes in ventilation rates. The changes in AOU may be a methodological artefact associated with problems with early oxygen measurements.
Uncertainties in modelling CH4 emissions from northern wetlands in glacial climates: the role of vegetation parameters
Authors: Berrittella C. , van Huissteden J.
Published: October 2011

Abstract. Marine Isotope Stage 3 (MIS 3) interstadials are marked by a sharp increase in the atmospheric methane (CH4) concentration, as recorded in ice cores. Wetlands are assumed to be the major source of this CH4, although several other hypotheses have been advanced. Modelling of CH4 emissions is crucial to quantify CH4 sources for past climates. Vegetation effects are generally highly generalized in modelling past and present-day CH4 fluxes, but should not be neglected. Plants strongly affect the soil-atmosphere exchange of CH4 and the net primary production of the vegetation supplies organic matter as substrate for methanogens. For modelling past CH4 fluxes from northern wetlands, assumptions on vegetation are highly relevant since paleobotanical data indicate large differences in Last Glacial (LG) wetland vegetation composition as compared to modern wetland vegetation. Besides more cold-adapted vegetation, Sphagnum mosses appear to be much less dominant during large parts of the LG than at present, which particularly affects CH4 oxidation and transport. To evaluate the effect of vegetation parameters, we used the PEATLAND-VU wetland CO2/CH4 model to simulate emissions from wetlands in continental Europe during LG and modern climates. We tested the effect of parameters influencing oxidation during plant transport (fox), vegetation net primary production (NPP, parameter symbol Pmax), plant transport rate (Vtransp), maximum rooting depth (Zroot) and root exudation rate (fex). Our model results show that modelled CH4 fluxes are sensitive to fox and Zroot in particular. The effects of Pmax, Vtransp and fex are of lesser relevance. Interactions with water table modelling are significant for Vtransp. We conducted experiments with different wetland vegetation types for Marine Isotope Stage 3 (MIS 3) stadial and interstadial climates and the present-day climate, by coupling PEATLAND-VU to high resolution climate model simulations for Europe. Experiments assuming dominance of one vegetation type (Sphagnum vs. Carex vs. Shrubs) show that Carex-dominated vegetation can increase CH4 emissions by 50% to 78% over Sphagnum-dominated vegetation depending on the modelled climate, while for shrubs this increase ranges from 42% to 72%. Consequently, during the LG northern wetlands may have had CH4 emissions similar to their present-day counterparts, despite a colder climate. Changes in dominant wetland vegetation, therefore, may drive changes in wetland CH4 fluxes, in the past as well as in the future.
Technical Note: Assessing a 24/7 solution for monitoring water quality loads in small river catchments
Authors: Jordan P. , Cassidy R.
Published: October 2011

Abstract. Quantifying nutrient and sediment loads in catchments is difficult owing to diffuse controls related to storm hydrology. Coarse sampling and interpolation methods are prone to very high uncertainties due to under-representation of high discharge, short duration events. Additionally, important low-flow processes such as diurnal signals linked to point source impacts are missed. Here we demonstrate a solution based on a time-integrated approach to sampling with a standard 24 bottle autosampler configured to take a sample every 7 h over a week according to a Plynlimon design. This is evaluated with a number of other sampling strategies using a two-year dataset of sub-hourly discharge and phosphorus concentration data. The 24/7 solution is shown to be among the least uncertain in estimating load (inter-quartile range: 96% to 110% of actual load in year 1 and 97% to 104% in year 2) due to the increased frequency raising the probability of sampling storm events and point source signals. The 24/7 solution would appear to be most parsimonious in terms of data coverage and certainty, process signal representation, potential laboratory commitment, technology requirements and the ability to be widely deployed in complex catchments.
Development of flood probability charts for urban drainage network in coastal areas through a simplified joint assessment approach
Authors: Archetti R. , Bolognesi A. , Casadio A. , Maglionico M.
Published: October 2011

Abstract. The operating conditions of urban drainage networks during storm events depend on the hydraulic conveying capacity of conduits and also on downstream boundary conditions. This is particularly true in coastal areas where the level of the receiving water body is directly or indirectly affected by tidal or wave effects. In such cases, not just different rainfall conditions (varying intensity and duration), but also different sea-levels and their effects on the network operation should be considered. This paper aims to study the behaviour of a seaside town storm sewer network, estimating the threshold condition for flooding and proposing a simplified method to assess the urban flooding severity as a function of climate variables. The case study is a portion of the drainage system of Rimini (Italy), implemented and numerically modelled by means of InfoWorks CS code. The hydraulic simulation of the sewerage system identified the percentage of nodes of the drainage system where flooding is expected to occur. Combining these percentages with both climate variables' values has lead to the definition of charts representing the combined degree of risk "rainfall-sea level" for the drainage system under investigation. A final comparison between such charts and the results obtained from a one-year rainfall-sea level time series has demonstrated the reliability of the analysis.
Eigenvalue of Coupled Systems for Hammerstein Integral Equation with Two Parameters
Authors: Li Wanjun
Published: October 2011

By using the fixed-point index theory, we discuss the existence, multiplicity, and nonexistence of positive solutions for the coupled systems of Hammerstein integral equation with parameters.
Beyond Welfarist Morality: An Abolitionist Reply to Fetissenko
Authors: Svärd Per-Anders
Published: October 2011

Maxim Fetissenko (2011) argues that the animal rights movement needs a new rhetorical strategy focusing on human health benefits and environmental preservation rather than on moral argumentation. Against this, I claim that the movement has not overused but rather has downplayed moral argumentation. Instead of promoting its real agenda, the movement has often diminished the issue of animal oppression and implicated itself in the reproduction of speciesism. If our goal is to abolish speciesist oppression, we should work consistently to make alternative identities and values available to people rather than opting for illusory shortcuts that do not disturb the speciesist social order.
O associacionismo galego em Buenos Aires e as possibilidades que oferece para o estudo da integração dos migrantes: uma análise do arquivo FAGA-MEGA
Authors: Farías Ruy
Published: October 2011

Boa parte da integração dos imigrantes galegos na Argentina se deu por meio de sua participação em uma coletividade ou comunidade emigrante. A atual Federação das Associações Galegas da República Argentina (nascida em 1921 como Federação das Sociedades Galegas, Agrárias e Culturais), gerou ao longo do tempo uma valiosa massa documental, à qual se somam importantes coleções de múltiplas sociedades galegas no campo. microterritorial e o extinto Centro Republicano Espanhol de Buenos Aires. O presente trabalho procura, em primeiro lugar, descrever brevemente o associacionismo galego em Buenos Aires, para depois analisar a composição e as características das coleções de arquivos da Federação, oferecendo, ao mesmo tempo, uma interpretação de seu valor e as possibilidades que oferecem Pesquisar.
Usage of Alternative Fuels in Power Plants
Authors: Beckmann Michael , Pohl Martin , Pieper Christoph , Böhme René , Bernhardt Daniel , Böhning Dorith , Gebauer Kathrin
Published: October 2011

Alternative Brennstoffe können Regelbrennstoffe direkt, z. B. bei dem Einsatz in Kohlekraftwerken, und indirekt, z. B. durch eine thermochemische Konversion zur Erzeugung von gasförmigen und flüssigen Brenn‐, Kraft‐ und Chemierohstoffen, ersetzen. Die Bandbreite alternativer Brennstoffe reicht dabei von unbehandelten biogenen Stoffen über biogene Reststoffe bis hin zu Stoffen, die einen mehr oder weniger großen biogenen Anteil haben. Zu den CO2‐Reduktionszielen und der geplanten Energiewende der deutschen Bundesregierung leistet die effiziente energetische Nutzung dieser alternativen Brennstoffe einen wesentlichen Beitrag. Ausgehend von der Brennstoffcharakterisierung werden prozesstechnische Anforderungen und die Effizienz verschiedener Verfahrensketten zur energetischen Nutzung alternativer Brennstoffe betrachtet.
“Cannonballs” and psammoma bodies: Unusual cytologic features of metastatic pulmonary small‐cell carcinoma in a pleural effusion
Authors: Conway Andrea B. , Hart Melissa K. , Jessurun Jose , Pambuccian Stefan E.
Published: October 2011

Large three‐dimensional cell aggregates and psammoma bodies are usually encountered in benign serous effusions (mesothelial hyperplasia and endosalpingiosis), mesotheliomas, and metastatic papillary carcinomas. We report a case of pulmonary small‐cell carcinoma occurring in an 88‐year‐old woman that initially presented with a malignant pleural effusion characterized cytologically by a predominance of large three‐dimensional neoplastic cell aggregates (“cannonballs”), associated with rare psammoma bodies. Although the crowded three‐dimensional tumor‐cell aggregates did not allow detailed cytologic examination, the diagnosis of metastatic small‐cell carcinoma could be established noting the characteristic chromatin features of the occasional single neoplastic cells and the characteristic “cell‐in‐cell” and “stack‐of‐coins” arrangements of rare small clusters of neoplastic cells. Immunoperoxidase stains showing positivity of the tumor cells for CD56, synaptophysin, and TTF1 further supported this diagnosis. Endobronchial ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration of a mediastinal lymph node subsequently confirmed the diagnosis of pulmonary small‐cell carcinoma. Metastatic pulmonary small‐cell carcinoma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of serous effusions showing large three‐dimensional neoplastic cell aggregates and psammoma bodies to prevent a potential diagnostic pitfall. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2013. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
When disaster hits, where does the standard of care go?
Authors: Cushman, Esq. Dawn
Published: October 2011

On July 22, 2011, it was reported in the news that a $25 million‐dollar settlement was reached in a class‐action lawsuit alleging that Memorial Medical Center in Louisiana failed to adequately prepare for the devastating catastrophe known as Hurricane Katrina. This magnitude of a claim raises serious questions regarding the viability of lawsuits and the lack of immunity available to hospital facilities, physicians, nurses and other healthcare providers for the provision of emergency aid during national disasters. This article is intended to address one aspect of the legal issues facing healthcare providers and to analyze the standard of care by which facilities and individual providers may be judged, measured and assessed following national disasters.
Proteinuria is associated with elevated tricuspid regurgitant jet velocity in children with sickle cell disease
Authors: Forrest Suzanne , Kim Ashley , Carbonella Judith , Pashankar Farzana
Published: October 2011

Background

Sickle cell disease (SCD) affects multiple organ systems. Complications of SCD such as pulmonary hypertension (PHT) and sickle cell nephropathy (SCN) are associated with an increased mortality. Both PHT and SCN have some common risk factors. In adults, PHT has been found to be associated with albuminuria, a manifestation of SCN. There is no data on this association in children. We conducted a study to determine if elevated pulmonary artery systolic pressures estimated on echocardiogram was associated with proteinuria in children with SCD.

Methods

A detailed retrospective chart review was conducted on a cohort of sickle cell patients screened with echocardiograms from June 2005 to July 2010. Patients who had an initial screening echocardiogram and urine analysis within 1 year were included. Longitudinal data from all subsequent echocardiograms and urine analyses were collected.

Results

Eighty‐five patients were included. On initial echocardiograms 32.9% had an elevated tricuspid regurgitant jet velocity (TRV) ≥2.5 m/second. On follow up, in the 28 patients with elevated TRV, 49.27% of all repeat echocardiograms showed persistent elevation. In the 57 patients with normal baseline TRV, 73.6% of all repeat echocardiograms continued to have normal TRV. On initial screening 7.14% of patients with elevated TRV had proteinuria compared to 1.75% without elevated TRV. On follow up, 19.08% of repeat urinalysis had proteinuria in patients with elevated baseline TRV compared to 12.35% in patients with normal baseline TRV (P = 0.04).

Conclusions

Elevated TRV ≥ 2.5 m/second is significantly associated with proteinuria on longitudinal follow up in children with SCD. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012; 58: 937–940. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Analytic treatment of the distributed resistance of the window layer in solar cells with parallel grids
Authors: Lee Kyu‐Seok
Published: October 2011

A formalism is presented to understand the effect of distributed resistance of the window layer on the current–voltage characteristics of solar cells with parallel grids. Along the window/active‐layer interface, the current density and the electric potential are calculated iteratively from the current density–voltage relation and the Laplace equation, respectively. The former property is approximated in a series expansion of sinusoidal functions, which leads to an analytic solution to the electric potential in the window layer. The total current and the average current density are derived in analytic forms. A few calculated results are presented to show the influence of the distributed resistance of the window layer on the device performance. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The incretin effect, GLP‐1 analogues and DPP‐4 inhibitors
Authors: Banham Stephen
Published: October 2011

In this short article, the author explains the reduced ‘incretin effect’ in type 2 diabetes and the mode of action of GLP‐1 analogues and DPP‐4 inhibitors. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Interface Ltd
Estimating the number of true discoveries in genome‐wide association studies
Authors: Lee Woojoo , Gusnanto A. , Salim A. , Magnusson P. , Sim Xueling , Tai E.S. , Pawitan Y.
Published: October 2011

Recent genome‐wide association studies have reported the discoveries of genetic variants of small to moderate effects. However, most studies of complex diseases face a great challenge because the number of significant variants is less than what is required to explain the disease heritability. A new approach is needed to recognize all potential discoveries in the data. In this paper, we present a practical model‐free procedure to estimate the number of true discoveries as a function of the number of top‐ranking SNPs together with the confidence bounds. This approach allows a practical methodology of general utility and produces relevant statistical quantities with simple interpretation. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Some thoughts on the care needs of demented patients. Part III
Authors: Spagnoli Alberto , Cocco Ennio
Published: October 2011

Riassunto

Scopo - Data la mancanza di una tradizione e di studi o riflessioni sistematiche sul problema dell'assistenza ai pazienti dementi, ed in considerazione delle numerose esperienze avviate anche in Italia per esplorare modi innovativi di assistenza agli anziani affetti da demenza, abbiamo ritenuto interessante formulare alcune riflessioni sull'argomento. Il vero obiettivo di queste riflessioni è in realtà quello di iniziare, e sollecitare, un discorso sulla valutazione dei servizi psicogeriatrici. Metodo - È stata condotta una ricerca su MEDLINE a partire dal 1980, utilizzando le parole chiave qui riportate. Data la necessità di affrontare (o, se non altro, elencare) un ampio spettro di argomenti, che va dal ruolo giocato dalla distribuzione degli spazi interni nelle istituzioni, agli aspetti relazionali o agli psicofarmaci, abbiamo integrato la ricerca bibliografica attingendo da altre fonti molto diversificate. Risultati e conclusioni - La riflessione sui bisogni assistenziali degli anziani dementi suggerisce prima di tutto la necessità di impiegare il metodo epidemiologico anche per la descrizione e la valutazione dei servizi, e degli «stili assistenziali», dove il termine assistenza è da intendersi nell'accezione più comprensiva di health care. In secondo luogo, emerge l'importanza degli aspetti relazionali, di accoglimento e, per i pazienti istituzionalizzati, della distribuzione degli spazi interni e, ancora, la necessità che argomenti tanto (apparentemente) disparati trovino sintesi ed ospitalità in riviste lette da chi si occupa di assistenza. Infine, è evidente che la preziosa cultura anti-istituzionale prodotta dalla psichiatria sociale richiede, in psicogeriatria, una revisione che individui i punti di adesione e di distanza da strategic fondate sull'affermazione delFautonomia del paziente (vs la dignità della disabilità), sul suo coinvolgimento in una vita più attiva (vs il «rispetto dell'apatia») e sul suo recupero alia vita sociale (vs nuove forme di equilibrio tra stimolazione e protezione).
Patients' and relatives' satisfaction with mental health services in Rome
Authors: Cozza Massimo , Amara Mariannina , Butera Nicola , Infantino Gaetano , Monti Alessandra Maria , Provenzano Rosa
Published: October 2011

Objective – Satisfaction's measurement with Mental Health Services in patients and their relatives. Design – Satisfaction scale administration to the patients who were treated in community-based psychiatric service from 1.1.1996 to 31.3.1996 and the relatives who were primarily involved in caring for the patient. Setting – The ASL Rome «C» community-based psychiatric service. Main outcome measures – Verona Service Satisfaction Scale-54, a multidimensional instrument which measure satisfaction with community-based psychiatric service. Results – Main results (301 scales for patients, 163 scales for relatives), pointed out for patients a higher satisfaction for the technical and interpersonal skills of psychiatrists and psychologists (score of specific items >4). Lowest scores of satisfaction were towards the appearance, comfort level and physical layout of the facility (score 2.95) and towards the response of the service to emergencies during the night, weekend and Bank Holidays (score 2.87). Relatives were not particulary keen for the item regarding help to find open employement (score 2.76). Furthermore patients and their relatives gave a negative evaluation of the publicity and information offered by Mental Health Services. Dimensions's analysis reachs the same conclusions deduced items's average score. The result of this study emphasizes the patients higher degree of satisfaction than the relatives. Conclusions – The above results point out three aspects to be improved by the Menthal Health Service in order to satisfy the demands of the patients and relatives: 1. appearance, comfort level and physical layout of the facility, 2. publicity and information, 3. social actives and social skills.
Metodi e definizioni per uno studio epidemiologico comparativo tra registri
Authors: Tansella Michele , De Salvia Domenico
Published: October 2011

Riassunto

In questo lavoro dopo aver descritto i criteri in base ai quali sono state incluse nella ricerca multicentrica le aree italiane sedi di registro psichiatrico, gli Autori presentano le definizioni utilizzate da tutti i registri che hanno partecipato alia ricerca. Tali definizioni potranno essere utilizzate anche per altre ricerche italiane che utilizzino il metodo del registro dei casi.

Parole chiave

registri psichiatrici dei casi, metodologia, definizioni.

In this paper the authors describe the criteria used in the selection of the Italian case-registers to include in the present study and present the definitions used by all case-registers. These definitions may be used also for further Italian case-register studies.