bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of metabolic syndrome in a north Indian hospital-based population with obstructive sleep apnoea
Authors: Agrawal Swastik , Sharma Surendra K. , Sreenivas Vishnubhatla , Lakshmy Ramakrishnan
Published: December 2011

Background & objectives:

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is known to be associated with cardiovascular risk factors and metabolic syndrome (MS). The burden of MS in patients with OSA in India is unknown. We investigated the prevalence of MS and its components in a cross-sectional study in patients with and without OSA in a hospital-based population of a tertiary health care centre in New Delhi, India.

Methods:

Consecutive patients undergoing overnight polysomnography in the Sleep Laboratory of the Department of Internal Medicine of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) hospital, New Delhi, were studied. Anthropometry and body composition analysis, blood pressure (BP), fasting blood glucose, insulin resistance by homeostasis model assessment (HOMA-IR) and fasting blood lipid profile were measured. MS was defined using the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult treatment panel III criteria, with Asian cut-off values for abdominal obesity.

Results:

Of the 272 subjects recruited, 187 (82%) had OSA [apnoea-hypopnoea index (AHI)>5 events/h] while 40 (18%) had a normal sleep study. Prevalence of MS in OSA patients was 79 per cent compared to 48 per cent in non-OSA individuals [OR 4.15, (2.05-8.56), P<0.001]. Prevalence of OSA in mild, moderate and severe OSA was 66, 72 and 86 per cent, respectively (P<0.001). Patients with OSA were more likely to have higher BP [OR: 1.06 (1.02-1.11)], fasting insulin [OR: 1.18 (1.05-1.32)], HOMA-IR [OR: 1.61 (1.11-2.33)] and waist circumference [OR: 1.20 (1.13-1.27)].

Interpretation & conclusions:

Our findings suggest that OSA is associated with a 4-fold higher occurrence of MS than patients without OSA. The prevalence of MS increases with increasing severity of OSA, therefore, early detection will be beneficial.
Prolonged expression of MHC class I - peptide expression in bone marrow derived retrovirus transfected matured dendritic cells by continuous centrifugation in the presence of IL-4
Authors: Hettihewa L.M.
Published: December 2011

Background & objectives:

Dendritic cells (DCs) are potent antigen presenting cells which proceed from immature to a mature stage during their differentiation. There are several methods of obtaining long lasting mature antigen expressing DCs and different methods show different levels of antigen expressions. We investigated bone marrow derived DCs for the degree of maturation and genetically engineered antigen presentation in the presence of interleukin-4 (IL-4) as a maturity enhancer.

Methods:

DCs and transfected retrovirus were cultured together in the presence of granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GMCSF)-IL4, GMCSF +IL4, lipopolysaccharide (LPS). B 7.1, B7.2 and CD11c were measured by the degree of immune fluorescence using enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) shuttled retrovirus transfected antigen. Degree of MHC class I molecule with antigen presentation of antigen was also evaluated by fluorescence activated cell sorting. The antigen presenting capacity of transfected DCs was investigated. Bone marrow DCs were generated in the presence of GMCSF and IL-4 in vitro. Dividing bone marrow cells were infected with EGFP shuttled retrovirus expressing SSP2 by prolonged centrifugation for three consecutive days from day 5, 6 and 7 and continued to culture in the presence of GMSCF and IL-4 until day 8.

Results:

IL-4 as a cytokine increased the maturation of retrovirus transfected DCs by high expression of B 7-1 and B 7-2. Also, IL-4 induced DC enhanced by the prolonged centrifugation and it was shown by increased antigen presentation of these dendric cells as antigen presenting cell (APC). Cytolytic effects were significantly higher in cytotoxic T cell response (CTLs) mixed with transfected DCs than CTLs mixed with pulsed DCs.

Interpretation & conclusions:

There was an enhanced antigen presentation by prolonged expression of antigen loaded MHC class I receptors in DCs in the presence of IL-4 by prolonged centrifugation.
Preventive action of curcumin in experimental acute pancreatitis in mouse
Authors: Yu Wen-Guang , Xu Gang , Ren Gui-Jie , Xu Xia , Yuan Hui-Qing , Qi Xiao-Li , Tian Ke-Li
Published: December 2011

Background & objectives:

Curcuma longa (turmeric) has a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine as a treatment for inflammatory conditions. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the preventive effects of curcumin against acute pancreatitis (AP) induced by caerulein in mouse and to elucidate possible mechanism of curcumin action.

Methods:

Curcumin (50 mg/kg/day) was intraperitoneally injected to Kun Ming male mice for 6 days, followed by injection of caerulein to induce AP. GW9662 (0.3 mg/kg), a specific peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) antagonist, was intravenously injected along with curcumin. Murine macrophage RAW264.7 cells were treated with 100 μmol/l curcumin for 2 h, and then stimulated with 0.1 μ g/ml lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Serum amylase and transaminase levels were measured at 10 h after AP. TNF-α level in mouse serum and cell culture medium were detected by ELISA. Expression of PPARγ and NF-κB were analyzed by RT-PCR and Western blot.

Results:

Curcumin significantly decreased the pancreas injury and reversed the elevation of serum amylase, ALT and AST activities and TNF-α level in mice with AP. Curcumin treatment inhibited the elevation of NF-κB-p65 in the nucleus of mouse pancreas AP group and RAW264.7 cells, but significantly increased the expression of PPARγ. GW9662 could abolish the effects of curcumin on serum levels of amylase, ALT, AST, TNF-α, and NF-κB level.

Interpretation & conclusions:

Our results suggest that curcumin could attenuate pancreas tissue and other organ injury by inhibiting the release of inflammatory cytokine TNF-α. These effects may involve upregulation of PPARγ and subsequent downregulation of NF-κB.
Mud and tears: The human face of disaster – A case study of the Queensland floods, January 2011
Authors: Härtel Charmine E J , Latemore Greg M
Published: December 2011

January 2011 visited on Queensland Australia floods of proportions many thought could not have occurred again, following disaster management planning taken after the historic floods of the 1800s and 1974. This paper presents some reflections on this natural disaster, which affected many members of the ANZAM community and left a permanent mark on those directly affected and those who watched as the waters washed away lives, memories and many of the things that give people a sense of place. Amongst tragedy came stories of generosity of human spirit as well as the occasional case of greed and callousness. When all was over, however, there was no doubt about the human side of disaster management. Through two case studies of a family-owned business and a large organization impacted by the flood in Brisbane, we highlight some lessons for disaster management and propose some strategies for building social capital in times of disaster.
Accumulation of aerosols over the Indo-Gangetic plains and southern slopes of the Himalayas: distribution, properties and radiative effects during the 2009 pre-monsoon season
Authors: Gautam R. , Hsu N. C. , Tsay S. C. , Lau K. M. , Holben B. , Bell S. , Smirnov A. , Li C. , Hansell R. , Ji Q. , Payra S. , Aryal D. , Kayastha R. , Kim K. M.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. We examine the distribution of aerosols and associated optical/radiative properties in the Gangetic-Himalayan region from simultaneous radiometric measurements over the Indo-Gangetic Plains (IGP) and the foothill/southern slopes of the Himalayas during the 2009 pre-monsoon season. Enhanced dust transport extending from the Southwest Asian arid regions into the IGP, results in seasonal mean (April–June) aerosol optical depths of over 0.6 – highest over Southern Asia. The influence of dust loading is greater over the Western IGP as suggested by pronounced coarse mode peak in aerosol size distribution and spectral single scattering albedo (SSA). Transported dust in the IGP, driven by prevailing westerly airmass, is found to be more absorbing (SSA550 nm<0.9) than the near-desert region in Northwestern (NW) India suggesting mixing with carbonaceous aerosols in the IGP. On the contrary, significantly reduced dust transport is observed over eastern IGP and foothill/elevated Himalayan slopes in Nepal where strongly absorbing haze is prevalent, as indicated by lower SSA (0.85–0.9 at 440–1020 nm), suggesting presence of more absorbing aerosols compared to IGP. Additionally, our observations show a distinct diurnal pattern of aerosols with characteristic large afternoon peak, from foothill to elevated mountain locations, associated with increased upslope transport of pollutants – that likely represent large-scale lifting of absorbing aerosols along the elevated slopes during pre-monsoon season. In terms of radiative impact of aerosols, over the source region of NW India, diurnal mean reduction in solar radiation fluxes was estimated to be 19–23 Wm−2 at surface (12–15% of the surface solar insolation). Furthermore, based on limited observations of aerosol optical properties during the pre-monsoon period and comparison of our radiative forcing estimates with published literature, there exists a general spatial heterogeneity in the regional aerosol forcing, associated with the absorbing aerosol distribution over northern India, with both diurnal mean surface forcing and forcing efficiency over the IGP exceeding that over Northwestern India. Finally, the role of the seasonal progressive buildup of aerosol loading and water vapor is investigated in the observed net aerosol radiative effect over Northwestern India. The radiative impact of water vapor is found to amplify the net regional aerosol radiative forcing suggesting that the two exert forcing in tandem leading to enhanced surface cooling. It is suggested that water vapor contribution should be taken into account while assessing aerosol forcing impact for this region and other seasonally similar environments.
Earth's energy imbalance and implications
Authors: Hansen J. , Sato M. , Kharecha P. , von Schuckmann K.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. Improving observations of ocean heat content show that Earth is absorbing more energy from the Sun than it is radiating to space as heat, even during the recent solar minimum. The inferred planetary energy imbalance, 0.58 ± 0.15 W m−2 during the 6-yr period 2005–2010, confirms the dominant role of the human-made greenhouse effect in driving global climate change. Observed surface temperature change and ocean heat gain together constrain the net climate forcing and ocean mixing rates. We conclude that most climate models mix heat too efficiently into the deep ocean and as a result underestimate the negative forcing by human-made aerosols. Aerosol climate forcing today is inferred to be −1.6 ± 0.3 W m−2, implying substantial aerosol indirect climate forcing via cloud changes. Continued failure to quantify the specific origins of this large forcing is untenable, as knowledge of changing aerosol effects is needed to understand future climate change. We conclude that recent slowdown of ocean heat uptake was caused by a delayed rebound effect from Mount Pinatubo aerosols and a deep prolonged solar minimum. Observed sea level rise during the Argo float era is readily accounted for by ice melt and ocean thermal expansion, but the ascendency of ice melt leads us to anticipate acceleration of the rate of sea level rise this decade.
Integrated method for the measurement of trace nitrogenous atmospheric bases
Authors: Key D. , Stihle J. , Petit J.-E. , Bonnet C. , Depernon L. , Liu O. , Kennedy S. , Latimer R. , Burgoyne M. , Wanger D. , Webster A. , Casunuran S. , Hidalgo S. , Thomas M. , Moss J. A. , Baum M. M.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. Nitrogenous atmospheric bases are thought to play a key role in the global nitrogen cycle, but their sources, transport, and sinks remain poorly understood. Of the many methods available to measure such compounds in ambient air, few meet the current need of being applicable to the complete range of potential analytes and fewer still are convenient to implement using instrumentation that is standard to most laboratories. In this work, an integrated approach to measuring trace, atmospheric, gaseous nitrogenous bases has been developed and validated. The method uses a simple acid scrubbing step to capture and concentrate the bases as their phosphite salts, which then are derivatized and analyzed using GC/MS and/or LC/MS. The advantages of both techniques in the context of the present measurements are discussed. The approach is sensitive, selective, reproducible, as well as convenient to implement and has been validated for different sampling strategies. The limits of detection for the families of tested compounds are suitable for ambient measurement applications (e.g., methylamine, 1 pptv; ethylamine, 2 pptv; morpholine, 1 pptv; aniline, 1 pptv; hydrazine, 0.1 pptv; methylhydrazine, 2 pptv), as supported by field measurements in an urban park and in the exhaust of on-road vehicles.
The impact of large scale ionospheric structure on radio occultation retrievals
Authors: Mannucci A. J. , Ao C. O. , Pi X. , Iijima B. A.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. We study the impact of large-scale ionospheric structure on the accuracy of radio occultation (RO) retrievals. We use a climatological model of the ionosphere as well as an ionospheric data assimilation model to compare quiet and geomagnetically disturbed conditions. The presence of ionospheric electron density gradients during disturbed conditions increases the physical separation of the two GPS frequencies as the GPS signal traverses the ionosphere and atmosphere. We analyze this effect in detail using ray-tracing and a full geophysical retrieval system. During quiet conditions, our results are similar to previously published studies. The impact of a major ionospheric storm is analyzed using data from the 30 October 2003 "Halloween" superstorm period. At 40 km altitude, the refractivity bias under disturbed conditions is approximately three times larger than quiet time. These results suggest the need for ionospheric monitoring as part of an RO-based climate observation strategy. We find that even during quiet conditions, the magnitude of retrieval bias depends critically on assumed ionospheric electron density structure, which may explain variations in previously published bias estimates that use a variety of assumptions regarding large scale ionospheric structure. We quantify the impact of spacecraft orbit altitude on the magnitude of bending angle and retrieval error. Satellites in higher altitude orbits (700+ km) tend to have lower residual biases due to the tendency of the residual bending to cancel between the top and bottomside ionosphere. Another factor affecting accuracy is the commonly-used assumption that refractive index is unity at the receiver. We conclude with remarks on the implications of this study for long-term climate monitoring using RO.
Satellite retrieval of the liquid water fraction in tropical clouds between −20 and −38 °C
Authors: Mitchell D. L. , d'Entremont R. P.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. This study describes a satellite remote sensing method for directly retrieving the liquid water fraction in mixed phase clouds, and appears unique in this respect. The method uses MODIS split-window channels for retrieving the liquid fraction from cold clouds where the liquid water fraction is less than 50% of the total condensate. This makes use of the observation that clouds only containing ice exhibit effective 12-to-11 μm absorption optical thickness ratios (βeff) that are quasi-constant with retrieved cloud temperature T. This observation was made possible by using two CO2 channels to retrieve T and then using the 12 and 11 μm channels to retrieve emissivities and βeff. Thus for T < −40 °C, βeff is constant, but for T > −40 °C, βeff slowly increases due to the presence of liquid water, revealing mean liquid fractions of ~10% around −22 °C from tropical clouds identified as cirrus by the cloud mask. However, the uncertainties for these retrievals are large, and extensive in situ measurements are needed to refine and validate these retrievals. Such liquid levels are shown to reduce the cloud effective diameter De such that cloud optical thickness will increase by more than 50% for a given water path, relative to De corresponding to pure ice clouds. Such retrieval information is needed for validation of the cloud microphysics in climate models. Since low levels of liquid water can dominate cloud optical properties, tropical clouds between −25 and −20 °C may be susceptible to the first aerosol indirect effect.
Improved instrumental line shape monitoring for the ground-based, high-resolution FTIR spectrometers of the NDACC
Authors: Hase F.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. We propose an improved monitoring scheme for the instrumental line shape (ILS) of high-resolution, ground-based FTIR (Fourier Transform Infra Red) spectrometers applied for chemical monitoring of the atmosphere by the Network for Detection of Atmospheric Composition Change (NDACC). Good ILS knowledge is required for the analysis of the recorded mid-infrared spectra. The new method applies a sequence of measurements using different gas cells instead of a single calibration cell. Three cells are used: cell C1 is a refillable cell offering 200 mm path length and equipped with a pressure gauge (filled with 100 Pa N2O), cells C2 and C3 are sealed cells offering 75 mm path length. C2 is filled with 5 Pa of pure N2O. Cell C3 is filled with 16 Pa N2O in 200 hPa technical air, so provides pressure-broadened N2O lines. We demonstrate that an ILS retrieval using C1 improves significantly the sensitivity of the ILS retrieval over the current calibration cells applied in the network, because this cell provides narrow fully saturated N2O lines. The N2O columns derived from C2 and C3 allow the performance of a highly valuable closure experiment: adopting the ILS retrieved from C1, the N2O columns of C2 and C3 are derived. Because N2O is an inert gas, both columns should be constant on long timescales. Apparent changes in the columns would immediately attract attention and indicate either inconsistent ILS results or instrumental problems of other origin. Two different cells are applied for the closure experiment, because the NDACC spectrometers observe both stratospheric and tropospheric gases: C2 mimics signatures of stratospheric gases, whereas C3 mimics signatures of tropospheric gases.
Critical surface albedo and its implications to aerosol remote sensing
Authors: Seidel F. C. , Popp C.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. We analyse the critical surface albedo (CSA) and its implications to aerosol remote sensing. CSA is defined as the surface albedo, where the reflectance at top-of-atmosphere (TOA) does not depend on aerosol optical depth (AOD). AOD retrievals are therefore inaccurate at the CSA. The CSA is obtained by derivatives of the TOA reflectance with respect to AOD using a radiative transfer code. We present the CSA and the effect of surface albedo uncertainties on AOD retrieval and atmospheric correction as a function of aerosol single-scattering albedo, illumination and observation geometry, wavelength and AOD. In general, increasing aerosol absorption and increasing scattering angles lead to lower CSA. We show that the CSA also depends on AOD, which was often neglected in previous studies. The following implications to aerosol remote sensing applications were found: (i) surface albedo uncertainties result in large AOD retrieval errors, particularly close to the CSA; (ii) AOD retrievals of non-absorbing aerosols require dark surfaces, while strong absorbing aerosols can be retrieved more accurately over bright surfaces; (iii) the CSA may help to estimate aerosol absorption; and (iv) the presented sensitivity of the reflectance at TOA to AOD provides error estimations to optimise AOD retrieval algorithms.
Gradients in intact polar diacylglycerolipids across the Mediterranean Sea are related to phosphate availability
Authors: Popendorf K. J. , Tanaka T. , Pujo-Pay M. , Lagaria A. , Courties C. , Conan P. , Oriol L. , Sofen L. E. , Moutin T. , Van Mooy B. A. S.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. Intact polar membrane lipids compose a significant fraction of cellular material in plankton and their synthesis imposes a substantial constraint on planktonic nutrient requirements. As a part of the Biogeochemistry from the Oligotrophic to the Ultraoligotrophic Mediterranean (BOUM) cruise we examined the distribution of several classes of intact polar diacylglycerolipids (IP-DAGs) across the Mediterranean, and found that phospholipid concentration as a percent of total lipids correlated with phosphate concentration. In addition, the ratios of non-phosphorus lipids to phospholipids – sulfoquinovosyldiacylglycerol (SQDG) to phosphatidylglycerol (PG), and betaine lipids to phosphatidylcholine (PC) – were also found to increase from west to east across the Mediterranean. Additionally, microcosm incubations from across the Mediterranean were amended with phosphate and ammonium, and in the course of several days nutrient amendments elicited a shift in the ratios of IP-DAGs. These experiments were used to assess the relative contribution of community shifts and physiological response to the observed change in IP-DAGs across the Mediterranean. The ratio of SQDG to chlorophyll-a was also explored as an indicator of phytoplankton response to nitrogen availability. This study is the first to demonstrate the dynamic response of membrane lipid composition to changes in nutrients in a natural, mixed planktonic community.
Responses of woody species to spatial and temporal ground water changes in coastal sand dune systems
Authors: Máguas C. , Rascher K. G. , Martins-Loução A. , Carvalho P. , Pinho P. , Ramos M. , Correia O. , Werner C.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. In spite of the relative importance of groundwater in costal dune systems, studies concerning the responses of vegetation to ground water (GW) availability variations, particularly in Mediterranean regions, are scarce. Thus, the main purpose of this study is to compare the responses of co-occurring species possessing different functional traits, to changes in GW levels (i.e. the lowering of GW levels) in a sand dune ecosystem. For that, five sites were established within a 1 km2 area in a meso-mediterranean sand dune ecosystem dominated by a Pinus pinaster forest. Due to natural topographic variability and anthropogenic GW exploitation, substantial variability in depth to GW between sites was found. Under these conditions it was possible to identify the degree of usage and dependence on GW of different plant species (two deep-rooted trees, a drought adapted shrub, a phreatophyte and a non-native woody invader) and how GW dependence varied seasonally and between the heterogeneous sites. Results indicated that the plant species had differential responses to changes in GW depth according to specific functional traits (i.e. rooting depth, leaf morphology, and water use strategy). Species comparison revealed that variability in pre-dawn water potential (Ψpre) and bulk leaf δ13C was related to site differences in GW use in the deep-rooted (Pinus pinaster, Myrica faya) and phreatophyte (Salix repens) species. However, such variation was more evident during spring than during summer drought. The exotic invader, Acacia longifolia, which does not possess a very deep root system, presented the largest seasonal variability in Ψpre and bulk leaf δ13C. In contrast, the response of Corema album, an endemic understory drought-adapted shrub, seemed to be independent of water availability across seasons and sites. Thus, the susceptibility to lowering of GW due to anthropogenic exploitation, in plant species from sand dunes, is variable, being particularly relevant for deep rooted species and phreatophytes, which seem to depend heavily on access to GW.
The stable isotopic signature of biologically produced molecular hydrogen (H2)
Authors: Walter S. , Laukenmann S. , Stams A. J. M. , Vollmer M. K. , Gleixner G. , Röckmann T.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. Biologically produced molecular hydrogen (H2) is characterized by a very strong depletion in deuterium. Although the biological source to the atmosphere is small compared to photochemical or combustion sources, it makes an important contribution to the global isotope budget of molecular hydrogen (H2). Large uncertainties exist in the quantification of the individual production and degradation processes that contribute to the atmospheric budget, and isotope measurements are a tool to distinguish the contributions from the different sources. Measurements of δD from the various H2 sources are scarce and for biologically produced H2 only very few measurements exist. Here the first systematic study of the isotopic composition of biologically produced H2 is presented. We investigated δD of H2 produced in a biogas plant, covering different treatments of biogas production, and from several H2 producing microorganisms such as bacteria or green algae. A Keeling plot analysis provides a robust overall source signature of δD = –712‰ (±13‰) for the samples from the biogas reactor (at 38 °C, δDH2O = 73.4‰), with a fractionation constant ϵH2−H2O of –689‰ (±20‰). The pure culture samples from different microorganisms give a mean source signature of δD = –728‰ (±39‰), and a fractionation constant ϵH2−H2O of –711‰ (±45‰) between H2 and the water, respectively. The results confirm the massive deuterium depletion of biologically produced H2 as was predicted by calculation of the thermodynamic fractionation factors for hydrogen exchange between H2 and water vapor. As expected for a thermodynamic equilibrium, the fractionation factor is largely independent of the substrates used and the H2 production conditions. The predicted equilibrium fractionation coefficient is positively correlated with temperature and we measured a change of 2.2‰/°C between 45 °C and 60 °C. This is in general agreement with the theoretical predictions. Our best estimate for ϵH2−H2O at a temperature of 20 °C is –728‰ for biologically produced H2, and we suggest using this value in future global H2 isotope budget calculations and models.
Precipitation variability in the winter rainfall zone of South Africa during the last 1400 yr linked to the austral westerlies
Authors: Stager J. C. , Mayewski P. A. , White J. , Chase B. M. , Neumann F. H. , Meadows M. E. , King C. D. , Dixon D. A.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. The austral westerlies strongly influence precipitation and ocean circulation in the southern temperate zone, with important consequences for cultures and ecosystems. Global climate models anticipate poleward contraction of the austral westerlies with future warming, but the available paleoclimate records that might test these models have been largely limited to South America, are not fully consistent with each other, and may be complicated by influences from other climatic factors. Here we present the first fine-interval diatom and sedimentological records from the winter rainfall region of South Africa, representing precipitation during the last 1400 yr. Inferred rainfall increased ~1400–1200 cal yr BP and most notably during the Little Ice Age with pulses centered on ~600, 530, 470, 330, 200, and 90 cal yr BP. Synchronous fluctuations in Antarctic ice core chemistry strongly suggest that these variations are linked to changes in the westerlies. Partial inconsistencies among South African and South American records warn against the simplistic application of local-scale histories to the Southern Hemisphere as a whole. Nonetheless, these findings in general do support model projections of increasing aridity in austral winter rainfall zones with future warming.
Measurement of spatial and temporal fine sediment dynamics in a small river
Authors: Schindler Wildhaber Y. , Michel C. , Burkhardt-Holm P. , Baenninger D. , Alewell C.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. Empirical measurements on fine sediment dynamics, infiltration and accumulation have been conducted worldwide, but it is difficult to compare the results because the applied methods differ widely. We compared established methods to capture temporal and spatial dynamics of suspended sediment (SS), fine sediment infiltration and accumulation and tested them for their suitability in small, canalized rivers of the Swiss Plateau. Suitability was assessed by data comparison, relation to hydrological data and in the context of previously published data. SS were assessed by optical backscatter (OBS) sensors and SS samplers. The former exhibit a better temporal resolution but were associated with calibration problems. Due to the relatively low cost and easy mounting of SS samplers, they can provide a higher spatial distribution in the cross section. This results in a better correlation between sediment infiltration and SS assessed by SS samplers than with OBS sensors. Sediment infiltration baskets and bedload traps were able to resolve the temporal and spatial distribution of fine sediment infiltration. Data obtained by both methods were positively correlated with water level and SS. In contrast, accumulation baskets can not assess the temporal behavior of fine sediment but the accumulation over a certain time period. Results indicate that less fine sediment accumulated in upwelling zones and within areas of higher mean water level due to scouring of fine sediment. Even though there was an increase of SS and sediment assessed with the bedload traps from up- to downstream, less fine sediment accumulated downstream. This is probably also due to more scouring downstream.
Tsunami vulnerability and damage assessment in the coastal area of Rabat and Salé, Morocco
Authors: Atillah A. , El Hadani D. , Moudni H. , Lesne O. , Renou C. , Mangin A. , Rouffi F.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. This study, a companion paper to Renou et al. (2011), focuses on the application of a GIS-based method to assess building vulnerability and damage in the event of a tsunami affecting the coastal area of Rabat and Salé, Morocco. This approach, designed within the framework of the European SCHEMA project (www.schemaproject.org) is based on the combination of hazard results from numerical modelling of the worst case tsunami scenario (inundation depth) based on the historical Lisbon earthquake of 1755 and the Portugal earthquake of 1969, together with vulnerability building types derived from Earth Observation data, field surveys and GIS data. The risk is then evaluated for this highly concentrated population area characterized by the implementation of a vast project of residential and touristic buildings within the flat area of the Bouregreg Valley separating the cities of Rabat and Salé. A GIS tool is used to derive building damage maps by crossing layers of inundation levels and building vulnerability. The inferred damage maps serve as a base for elaborating evacuation plans with appropriate rescue and relief processes and to prepare and consider appropriate measures to prevent the induced tsunami risk.
From the Desk of the Guest Editor: Volume Overview
Authors: Cason Jana
Published: December 2011

This issue of the International Journal of Telerehabilitation (IJT) contains original research evaluating the efficacy of telerehabilitation, viewpoint articles, a letter to the editor, a committee report from a working group within the American Telemedicine Association’s Telerehabilitation Special Interest Group, and an announcement from the American Telemedicine Association.  It is important to note that legislation, regulation, and policy related to telerehabilitation continues to evolve. Therefore, the information presented in this issue of the IJT is current as of the time of its publication and reflects the most recent developments in the field.
Telehealth Regulatory and Legal Considerations: Frequently Asked Questions
Authors: Cason Jana , Brannon Janice A.
Published: December 2011

As telehealth gains momentum as a service delivery model in the United States within the rehabilitation professions, regulatory and legal questions arise. This article examines the following questions:1. Is there a need to secure licenses in two states (i.e., where the practitioner resides, and where the client is located), before engaging in telehealth?2. Do state laws differ concerning if and how telehealth can occur?3. Do any states expressly disallow telehealth?4. Can services delivered through telehealth be billed the same way as services provided in-person?5. If practitioners fulfill the requirements to maintain licensure (e.g., continuing education obligations) in their state of residence, do they also need to fulfill the requirements to maintain licensure for the state in which the client resides?6. Will professional malpractice insurance cover services delivered through telehealth?7. Does a sole practitioner need to abide by HIPAA regulations?Responses to these questions are offered to raise awareness of the regulatory and legal implications associated with the use of a telehealth service delivery model
Isolated Transient Blindness and Isolated Oculomotor Nerve Palsy Secondary to Single Mesencephalic Metastases: Report of 2 Cases
Authors: Rotondo Michele , Lus Giacomo , Scuotto Assunta
Published: December 2011

Purpose

Metastatic lesions of midbrain are quite rare, and only unusually they produce isolated cranial nerve palsy.

Methods

We report two cases of 2nd and 3rd cranial nerves impairment, produced by solitary midbrain metastases.

Results

In both patients Magnetic Resonance (MR) allowed a correct diagnosis, subsequently confirmed by histology.

Conclusions

The metastatic involvement of midbrain would be included in the differential diagnosis of neuro-ophthalmic conditions to avoid the risk of misdiagnosis and consequently delay in management of this special population. MR is crucial for early detection of this infrequent pathology.
Spontaneous Cholecystocutaneous Fistula in a Dog
Authors: Marquardt Shelly A. , Rochat Mark C. , Johnson-Neitman Jennifer L.
Published: December 2011

The purpose of this case report was to describe the surgical correction of a cholecystocutaneous fistula in a dog. A 6 yr old vizsla presented with a 2 mo history of a chronic draining wound on the right ventral thorax. Diagnostics revealed numerous fistulous tracts opening at a single site on the right ventrolateral chest wall, extending caudodorsally through the chest wall and diaphragm to the region of the right medial liver lobe. Exploratory laparotomy revealed the apex of the gallbladder adhered to the diaphragm with a tract of fibrous tissue extending along the diaphragm laterally to the right thoracic wall. Cholecystectomy was performed. The fistulous tract was incised to expose the lumen of the fistula, and the fistula was omentalized. Twenty-eight months after surgery, the dog had had no recurrence of the fistulous tract. Exploratory laparotomy allowed excellent visualization of the intra-abdominal path of the fistula and facilitated the ease of resection of the source. Cholecystectomy resulted in rapid and complete resolution of the fistula without the need for excision of the fistula. Although rare, gallbladder disease should be a differential for chronic fistulous tracts.
Stagnation-Point Flow over an Exponentially Shrinking/Stretching Sheet
Authors: Wong Sin Wei , Awang Abu Omar , Ishak Anuar
Published: December 2011

The steady two-dimensional stagnation-point flow of an incompressible viscous fluid over an exponentially shrinking/stretching sheet is studied. The shrinking/stretching velocity, the free stream velocity, and the surface temperature are assumed to vary in a power-law form with the distance from the stagnation point. The governing partial differential equations are transformed into a system of ordinary differential equations before being solved numerically by a finite difference scheme known as the Keller-box method. The features of the flow and heat transfer characteristics for different values of the governing parameters are analyzed and discussed. It is found that dual solutions exist for the shrinking case, while for the stretching case, the solution is unique.
Nondestructive sampling of human skeletal remains yields ancient nuclear and mitochondrial DNA
Authors: Bolnick Deborah A. , Bonine Holly M. , Mata‐Míguez Jaime , Kemp Brian M. , Snow Meradeth H. , LeBlanc Steven A.
Published: December 2011

Museum curators and living communities are sometimes reluctant to permit ancient DNA (aDNA) studies of human skeletal remains because the extraction of aDNA usually requires the destruction of at least some skeletal material. Whether these views stem from a desire to conserve precious materials or an objection to destroying ancestral remains, they limit the potential of aDNA research. To help address concerns about destructive analysis and to minimize damage to valuable specimens, we describe a nondestructive method for extracting DNA from ancient human remains. This method can be used with both teeth and bone, but it preserves the structural integrity of teeth much more effectively than that of bone. Using this method, we demonstrate that it is possible to extract both mitochondrial and nuclear DNA from human remains dating between 300 BC and 1600 AD. Importantly, the method does not expose the remains to hazardous chemicals, allowing them to be safely returned to curators, custodians, and/or owners of the samples. We successfully amplified mitochondrial DNA from 90% of the individuals tested, and we were able to analyze 1–9 nuclear loci in 70% of individuals. We also show that repeated nondestructive extractions from the same tooth can yield amplifiable mitochondrial and nuclear DNA. The high success rate of this method and its ability to yield DNA from samples spanning a wide geographic and temporal range without destroying the structural integrity of the sampled material may make possible the genetic study of skeletal collections that are not available for destructive analysis. Am J Phys Anthropol 147:293–300, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Russian ethnic history inferred from mitochondrial DNA diversity
Authors: Morozova Irina , Evsyukov Alexey , Kon'kov Andrey , Grosheva Alexandra , Zhukova Olga , Rychkov Sergey
Published: December 2011

With the aim of gaining insight into the genetic history of the Russians, we have studied mitochondrial DNA diversity among a number of modern Russian populations. Polymorphisms in mtDNA markers (HVS‐I and restriction sites of the coding region) of populations from 14 regions within present‐day European Russia were investigated. Based on analysis of the mitochondrial gene pool geographic structure, we have identified three different elements in it and a vast “intermediate” zone between them. The analysis of the genetic distances from these elements to the European ethnic groups revealed the main causes of the Russian mitochondrial gene pool differentiation. The investigation of this pattern in historic perspective showed that the structure of the mitochondrial gene pool of the present‐day Russians largely conforms to the tribal structure of the medieval Slavs who laid the foundation of modern Russians. Our results indicate that the formation of the genetic diversity currently observed among Russians can be traced to the second half of the first millennium A.D., the time of the colonization of the East European Plain by the Slavic tribes. Patterns of diversity are explained by both the impact of the native population of the East European Plain and by genetic differences among the early Slavs. Am J Phys Anthropol , 2012. © 2011Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A three‐level dark state and double‐control single‐photon logic gates via quantum coherent control
Authors: Shen J.Q.
Published: December 2011

Multilevel quantum coherence and its quantum‐vacuum counterpart, where a three‐level dark state is involved, are suggested in order to achieve new photonic and quantum optical applications. It is shown that such a three‐level dark state in a four‐level tripod‐configuration atomic system consists of three lower levels, where constructive and destructive quantum interference between two control transitions (driven by two control fields) arises. We point out that the controllable optical response due to the double‐control tunable quantum interference can be utilized to design some fascinating new photonic devices such as logic gates, photonic transistors and switches at quantum level. A single‐photon two‐input XOR logic gate (in which the incident “gate” photons are the individual light quanta of the two control fields) based on such an effect of optical switching control with an EIT (electromagnetically induced transparency) microcavity is suggested as an illustrative example of the application of the dark‐state manipulation via the double‐control quantum interference. The present work would open up possibility of new applications in both fundamental physics (e.g., field quantization and relevant quantum optical effects in artificial systems that can mimic atomic energy levels) and applied physics (e.g., photonic devices such as integrated optical circuits at quantum level).
Conductivity of paper containing poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)/poly(4‐styrenesulfonate) and multiwall carbon nanotubes
Authors: Montibon Elson , Lestelius Magnus , Järnström Lars
Published: December 2011

Multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) were added to a dispersion of poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)/poly(4‐styrenesulfonate)–dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) at various dosage levels (0.1, 0.3, 0.5 wt %). The mixture was characterized in terms of its rheological behavior, and a difference was observed between ultrasonicated and nonultrasonicated mixtures. All the dispersions exhibited shear thinning behavior. Ultrasonication helped to minimize the aggregation of nanotubes in the dispersion. Coating the dispersions onto a commercial base paper on both sides turned the paper into a moderately conductive material with a bulk conductivity level of 10−3 S/cm. The proposed equivalent circuits of the coated papers which were derived from the Nyquist plot of the Impedance Spectroscopy data consist of a resistor connected in parallel to a capacitor. Likewise, the Bode plot showed the behavior of the complex impedance and phase angle of the coated paper as a function of frequency. The I‐V characteristic and the bulk conductivity values of the paper samples are reported. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)—Energy dispersive spectroscopy showed the deposition of the conducting polymer in the fiber network. The tensile indices of all coated papers were slightly higher than that of the base paper. Apart from altering the conductive properties of the paper, opening the way to new uses of the paper, the equivalent circuit behavior of the modified paper allows for the development of other functions, such as sensors or energy storage. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Relationship between intermolecular bonding, nanostructure, phase behavior, and macroscopic physical properties of pressure‐sensitive adhesives based on polyelectrolyte complexes
Authors: (Kiseleva) T. I. Levada , Feldstein M. M.
Published: December 2011

Correlations have been established between mechanisms of molecular interaction, the energy of intermolecular bonds, nanoscopic free volume, phase state, and such macroscopic physical properties as linear and large‐strain viscoelasticity, relaxation, water‐absorbing capacity, and adhesive joint strength of pressure sensitive adhesives based on nonstoichiometric polyelectrolyte complexes. The polyelectrolyte complexes are formed by mixing of a polybase, copolymer of N,N‐dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate with methyl methacrylate and butyl methacrylate (PDMAEMA‐co‐MMA/BMA), with a polyacid, copolymer of methacrylic acid and ethyl acrylate (PMAA‐co‐EA) in the presence of triethyl citrate (TEC) as a plasticizer. Rubber‐like elasticity and pressure sensitive adhesion of the polyelectrolyte complexes on the macroscopic level have been demonstrated to be the result of specific coupling of such generally conflicting properties of polymer materials as sufficiently strong intermolecular cohesion energy with comparatively large free volume (vacant space between neighboring macromolecules) at the nanoscopic scale. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Residual acrylic monomer content of denture base resins with different fiber systems
Authors: Köroǧlu Ayşegül , Özdemir Tonguç , Duru Pamir Ahmet , Usanmaz Ali
Published: December 2011

The conversion of monomer to its polymer may not be complete and residual monomer is left over in the polymeric matrix; this, in turn, affects the properties of the polymeric matrix. In this study, we wanted to compare residual monomer content of the unreinforced conventional heat‐polymerized and microwave‐polymerized acrylic resins with those of fiber‐reinforced ones. High performance liquid chromatography was used for the determination of the residual monomer content. Statistical analysis of the results was carried out with a confidence level of 95%. It was observed that conventional heat‐polymerized denture base resin resulted in a relatively higher residual monomer content than the microwaved one. Conventional heat‐polymerized denture base resin with fiber reinforcement caused an increase in the residual monomer content. Furthermore, the change in the residual monomer content of microwave‐polymerized denture base resin with fiber reinforcement was not statistically significant compared with no fiber reinforcement. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Visceral Pigmentation in Three Species of the Genus Scinax (Anura: Hylidae): Distinct Morphological Pattern
Authors: Franco‐Belussi Lilian , De Souza Santos Lia Raquel , Zieri Rodrigo , De Oliveira Classius
Published: December 2011

Amphibians share with other ectothermic vertebrates an extracutaneous pigmentary system consisting of melanin‐containing cells in various organs and tissues. We describe the interspecific variation in the visceral pigmentation in three anuran species (Scinax similis, S. fuscovarius, and S. fuscomarginatus). We analyzed the visceral pigmentation of 15 adult males from each species during the reproductive period. The individuals were weighed and measured, and the pigmented visceral cells were classified and documented in stereomicroscope. The shape and amount of pigment cells differed among organs and also among species. Significant differences were detected in the cardiorespiratory system, digestory system, urogenital system, and lumbosacral peritoneum. In the urogenital system, the main difference was observed in the testes, in which only S. fuscomarginatus had varying degrees of pigmentation. Anat Rec, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.