Observations of Bathymetry-Induced Ocean Roughness Modulation in In-situ Surface Slope Measurements and Coincident Airborne SAR Images

Empirical results from a field experiment in the southern North Sea have demonstrated the possibility to detect bathymetry-induced sea surface roughness modulation in the coastal zone using high frequency in-situ slope measurements provided by the Towed Laser Slopemeter. A strong correlation between enhanced/reduced slope power for ocean wavelengths around 50 cm and enhanced/reduced normalized radar cross section (NRCS) at P-band has been established. Areas of smoother and rougher waters were found to occur systematically and consistently up- and down-stream of the sand dune crests, in good agreement with current theory. One case of perfect collocation in both space and time confirmed that the extremes in slope PSD and NRCS are spatially collocated. This dataset allowed the phase shift between the sand dune crests and their radar signature to be estimated at about 50 meters. The occurrence of bathymetry-related modulation was also detected at higher frequencies, although the range of ocean wavelengths affected by the modulation seem to be determined by environmental condition

Therapeutic approaches to disease modifying therapy for multiple sclerosis in adults: An Australian and New Zealand perspective Part 1 Historical and established therapies

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a potentially life-changing immune mediated disease of the central nervous system. Until recently, treatment has been largely confined to acute treatment of relapses, symptomatic therapies and rehabilitation. Through persistent efforts of dedicated physicians and scientists around the globe for 160 years, a number of therapies that have an impact on the long term outcome of the disease have emerged over the past 20 years. In this three part series we review the practicalities, benefits and potential hazards of each of the currently available and emerging treatment options for MS. We pay particular attention to ways of abrogating the risks of these therapies and provide advice on the most appropriate indications for using individual therapies. In Part 1 we review the history of the development of MS therapies and its connection with the underlying immunobiology of the disease. The established therapies for MS are reviewed in detail and their current availability and indications in Australia and New Zealand are summarised. We examine the evidence to support their use in the treatment of MS

A new era in the treatment of multiple sclerosis

• Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system with a multifactorial aetiology and highly variable natural history. • A growing understanding of the immunopathogenesis of the condition has led to an expanding array of therapies for this previously untreatable disease. • While a cure for MS remains elusive, the potential to reduce inflammatory disease activity by preventing relapses and minimising disease progression is achievable. • The importance of early treatment in minimising long-term disability is increasingly recognised. • Most of the newer, more effective therapies are associated with risks and practical problems that necessitate an active management strategy and continuous vigilance. • While the initiation of these therapies is likely to remain the responsibility of neurologists, other specialist physicians and general practitioners will be involved in the identification and management of adverse effects