bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Re-Evaluating Causal Modeling with Mantel Tests in Landscape Genetics
Authors: Cushman Samuel , Wasserman Tzeidle , Landguth Erin , Shirk Andrew
Published: February 2013

The predominant analytical approach to associate landscape patterns with gene flow processes is based on the association of cost distances with genetic distances between individuals. Mantel and partial Mantel tests have been the dominant statistical tools used to correlate cost distances and genetic distances in landscape genetics. However, the inherent high correlation among alternative resistance models results in a high risk of spurious correlations using simple Mantel tests. Several refinements, including causal modeling, have been developed to reduce the risk of affirming spurious correlations and to assist model selection. However, the evaluation of these approaches has been incomplete in several respects. To demonstrate the general reliability of the causal modeling approach with Mantel tests, it must be shown to be able to correctly identify a wide range of landscape resistance models as the correct drivers relative to alternative hypotheses. The objectives of this study were to (1) evaluate the effectiveness of the originally published causal modeling framework to support the correct model and reject alternative hypotheses of isolation by distance and isolation by barriers and to (2) evaluate the effectiveness of causal modeling involving direct competition of all hypotheses to support the correct model and reject all alternative landscape resistance models. We found that partial Mantel tests have very low Type II error rates, but elevated Type I error rates. This leads to frequent identification of support for spurious correlations between alternative resistance hypotheses and genetic distance, independent of the true resistance model. The frequency in which this occurs is directly related to the degree of correlation between true and alternative resistance models. We propose an improvement based on the relative support of the causal modeling diagnostic tests.
Quenching of Tryptophan Fluorescence in the Presence of 2,4-DNP, 2,6-DNP, 2,4-DNA and DNOC and Their Mechanism of Toxicity
Authors: Dumitraş Huţanu Cristina-Amalia , Zaharia Marius , Pintilie Olga
Published: February 2013

Although they are widely used as insecticides, acaricides and fungicides in the agriculture or as raw materials in the dye industry, dinitrophenols (DNPs) are extremely noxious, death cases having been registered. These compounds produce cataracts, lower leucocyte levels, disturb the general metabolism and can cause cancer. It is also assumed that DNPs hinder the proton translocation through the mitochondrial inner membrane and therefore inhibit oxidative phosphorylation. Their fluorescence quenching properties can help understand and explain their toxicity. Fluorescence quenching of tryptophan was tested using different dinitrophenols such as 2,4-dinitrophenol (2,4-DNP), 4,6-dinitro-orthocresol (DNOC), 2-[(2,4-dinitrophenyl)amino]acetic acid (GlyDNP), 2-(1-methyl-heptyl)-4.6-dinitrophenyl crotonate (Karathan), 2-amino-5-[(1-((carboxymethyl)amino)-3-((2,4-dinitrophenyl)thio)-1-oxopropan-2-yl)amino]-5-oxopentanoic acid (SDN GSH), 2,4-dinitroanisole (2,4-DNA) and 2,4-dinitrobenzoic acid (2,4-DNB). 2,4-DNP and DNOC showed the highest tryptophan fluorescence quenching constant values, these being also the most toxic compounds. The electronic chemical potential value of the most stable complex of 2,4-DNP-with tryptophan is higher than the values of the electronic chemical potentials of complexes corresponding to the derivatives.
Detection of Micrococcus Luteus Biofilm Formation in Microfluidic Environments by pH Measurement Using an Ion-Sensitive Field-Effect Transistor
Authors: Matsuura Koji , Asano Yuka , Yamada Akira , Naruse Keiji
Published: February 2013

Biofilm formation in microfluidic channels is difficult to detect because sampling volumes are too small for conventional turbidity measurements. To detect biofilm formation, we used an ion-sensitive field-effect transistor (ISFET) measurement system to measure pH changes in small volumes of bacterial suspension. Cells of Micrococcus luteus (M. luteus) were cultured in polystyrene (PS) microtubes and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA)-based microfluidic channels laminated with polyvinylidene chloride. In microtubes, concentrations of bacteria and pH in the suspension were analyzed by measuring turbidity and using an ISFET sensor, respectively. In microfluidic channels containing 20 μL of bacterial suspension, we measured pH changes using the ISFET sensor and monitored biofilm formation using a microscope. We detected acidification and alkalinization phases of M. luteus from the ISFET sensor signals in both microtubes and microfluidic channels. In the alkalinization phase, after 2 day culture, dense biofilm formation was observed at the bottom of the microfluidic channels. In this study, we used an ISFET sensor to detect biofilm formation in clinical and industrial microfluidic environments by detecting alkalinization of the culture medium.
Les classes moyennes changent-elles la donne en Afrique ?
Authors: Jacquemot Pierre
Published: February 2013

Résumé Dans quelle mesure la vitalité économique enregistrée par l’Afrique pendant la décennie 2000, associée à son dynamisme démographique, y modifie la donne sociale ? Certains indices conduisent à affirmer que l’on assiste à l’émergence de « classe(s) moyenne(s) ». Elle symbolise la sortie de la grande pauvreté, l’accession à une certaine prospérité. Au plan politique, les groupes émergents mieux éduqués peuvent pousser à l’évolution des institutions démocratiques. Certains pensent qu’un cercle vertueux peut s’enclencher avec le double phénomène classes moyennes et urbanisation : les consommateurs seront plus nombreux et les marchés gagneront en taille, la construction immobilière connaîtra un boom, comme la bancarisation de l’économie. D’autres pensent que, de plus en plus individualistes et consuméristes, les classes moyennes pourraient être une source d’acculturation et de perte des valeurs de solidarité.
La classe moyenne fonctionnaire au Gabon
Authors: Soiron-Fallut Mélanie
Published: February 2013

Résumé De manière singulière, la fonction publique au Gabon tend à rester une « valeur refuge » pour ceux qui désirent obtenir un statut social valorisé et des revenus stables. Ce statut est lié à un prestige dû à l’accès à certains biens de consommation valorisés, mais aussi à la possibilité de prendre en charge des parents, ou encore d’accéder à certains établissements scolaires. De sorte qu’au-delà du prestige, une position de pouvoir dans le cadre familial, villageois, voire urbain, peut en découler. Le recours aux postes de fonctionnaires est le seul moyen d’éviter la pauvreté, d’avoir une situation stable et de lier plusieurs activités.
La stratégie économique du Qatar
Authors: Srour-Gandon Perla
Published: February 2013

En trente ans, le Qatar s’est construit une notoriété à l’échelle internationale. Mais c’est surtout ces dernières années que le petit émirat revient régulièrement sur le devant de la scène, soit pour ses investissements dans de nombreux secteurs de l’économie internationale, soit pour sa présence dans divers volets diplomatiques. Le pays, l’un des plus importants détenteurs de gaz au monde, a toujours fait preuve d’avant-gardisme. Il a su miser sur ses atouts gaziers alors que ses voisins tablaient sur le pétrole, il a développé une forte stratégie gazière en l’axant sur le gaz naturel liquéfié afin de l’exporter, il recycle les revenus de ce capital gazier en diversifiant son économie dans différents domaines : l’éducation, la culture, le sport, l’immobilier ou encore l’industrie. Clairvoyant, le Qatar compte sur cette diversification afin d’assurer une prospérité pérenne à sa population, en misant sur son capital humain via une « économie basée sur la connaissance », qui va bien au delà de la rente gazière.
Qatar, une stratégie agricole au service de la puissance ?
Authors: Brun Matthieu
Published: February 2013

La hausse des prix des matières premières agricoles ne cesse de renforcer le poids stratégique de la sécurité alimentaire dans l’agenda politique de bon nombre d’Etats dépendants des marchés internationaux. Le Qatar, même s’il fait partie du trio de tête des pays les plus riches du monde 1 , importait en 2010 pour plus d’un milliard de dollars de produits alimentaires. Handicapé par le manque d’eau et de terres, cet Etat est pourtant bien décidé à réduire sa facture alimentaire. Un ambitieux défi étroitement lié à l’engagement de l’émirat pour les zones arides, preuve s’il en est que l’agriculture demeure encore au cœur des stratégies de puissance.
Jérusalem : complexité du statut, quelles solutions possibles ?
Authors: Danino Olivier
Published: February 2013

Jérusalem est une ville sans statut juridique officiel. L’ONU, qui prônait son internationalisation, n’a effectivement jamais adopté de texte à ce sujet. Malgré tout, les Nations unies refusent entre 1949 et 1967 de reconnaître les souverainetés israélienne et jordanienne sur Jérusalem tout comme celle d’Israël après la guerre des Six Jours en 1967 lorsque l’ensemble de la ville passe sous son administration unique. Le roi de Jordanie ne renonce à Jérusalem qu’en 1988 au profit de l’Organisation de libération de la Palestine. A partir de ce moment là, les discussions sur le futur statut de cette ville se déroulent entre Israéliens et Palestiniens sur la base d’un partage de Jérusalem.
Hyper-régulation des systèmes économiques et sociaux et déviance des comportements organisationnels
Authors: Azan Wilfrid , Bourion Christian , Laroche Patrice , Persson Sybil
Published: February 2013

Résumé A travers une lecture interdisciplinaire, cet article observe les situations organisationnelles où interviennent les processus de ranking (classification), lobbying (influence) et whistleblowing (dénonciation). A partir d’un cadre théorique cybernétique nous montrons comment la superposition des trois processus induit des déviances en matière de comportement organisationnel et proposons des pistes d’action.
Comment générer de la confiance envers un agent virtuel à l'aide de ses caractéristiques ? Une étude exploratoire
Authors: Lemoine Jean-François , Cherif Emna
Published: February 2013

Résumé L’objectif de cette étude est de mettre à jour les caractéristiques des agents virtuels qui influencent la confiance que les internautes éprouvent à leur égard. A partir d’une étude qualitative menée auprès de 32 internautes, 12 dimensions ont été recensées. Certaines relèvent des caractéristiques techniques des agents tandis que d’autres concernent leur anthropomorphisme. Chacune d’entre elles exerce une influence spécifique sur l’une des trois dimensions de la confiance envers les agents (crédibilité, intégrité et bienveillance).
L'efficacité comparée de trois médias électroniques opt-in dans le cadre d'une campagne promotionnelle : quelles implications pour le manager ?
Authors: Dianoux Christian , Fournier Martine , Mouline Jean-Pierre , Adjovi Gildas
Published: February 2013

Résumé Cette recherche vise à mieux comprendre, dans le cadre d’une campagne promotionnelle, l’efficacité des trois principaux médias numériques de type opt-in : le SMS, le courriel et le Réseau Social Numérique. Les résultats obtenus suite à la mise en œuvre d’une pseudo-expérimentation réalisée auprès de 3 396 consommateurs, illustrent l’intérêt de la communication multicanal (SMS-courriel) et le faible impact d’un réseau social tel que Facebook.
Des valeurs coopératives à l'innovation responsable
Authors: Owen Richard
Published: February 2013

Résumé Le concept d’« innovation responsable » ou de « recherche et innovation responsable » prend de l’importance au niveau européen comme une nouvelle approche pour soutenir le caractère responsable du développement et de l’émergence de l’innovation dans les sociétés démocratiques. La Commission européenne fonde aujourd’hui l’Espace Européen de la Recherche sur ce concept, forgé dans le cadre de sa Stratégie Horizon 2020 et de l’Europe de l’Innovation. Ce travail résume la pensée émergente en matière d’innovation responsable, en insistant sur le fait que son point de départ est une réflexion sur les buts et les motivations de l’innovation, ancrés dans les valeurs coopératives et dirigés vers « les justes impacts ». L’innovation responsable cherche à s’assurer que l’innovation est destinée à, et est conduite en temps réel vers, des fins socialement acceptables et désirables face à l’incertitude, d’une façon anticipatrice, réflexive, délibérative et – finalement – responsable, en couplant la réflexion et l’action et en créant des opportunités pour l’innovation. Les concepts de co-opération et de coresponsabilité sont des concepts clés par rapport à ces objectifs et reflètent la nature complexe et globalisée de l’innovation elle-même.
La forme coopérative est-elle adaptée au jeune créateur d'entreprise ?
Authors: Chamard Camille , Faivre Patrick , Levan Yves , Philippe Jean
Published: February 2013

Résumé Les coopératives ouvrières et plus particulièrement les Sociétés coopératives et participatives (SCOP) sont méconnues par les jeunes créateurs d’entreprises et font souvent l’objet de critiques portant sur la possibilité pour cette forme de société de rémunérer le talent de son initiateur et d’accéder facilement à des financements. Cet article discute de la validité de ces critiques et présente des solutions qui seraient envisageables pour y remédier. L’entreprise sous forme de Scop est tournée vers l’accomplissement des personnes et non vers l’accumulation de richesses. Le créateur de Scop connaît une relation particulière à son entreprise : un intérêt pour la durabilité de l’entreprise et son épanouissement personnel avec un rapport au temps qui associe étroitement le capital et le travail. Aussi, il est récompensé pour son action par des éléments qui ne sont pas uniquement pécuniers. Par ailleurs, la SCOP constitue donc pour la mobilisation de capitaux, une alternative crédible et si de nouvelles modalités de financement permettent d’élargir ses possibilités de financement extérieur, la Scop doit rester à l’abri des excès que ne manque pas de générer le modèle capitaliste traditionnel.
L'économie de fonctionnalité comme économie de « coopéraction » : le cas du développement de logiciels
Authors: Huet Frédéric , Choplin Hugues
Published: February 2013

Résumé L’économie de fonctionnalité affirme l’émergence de nouveaux modes de consommation, moins tournés vers l’acquisition de biens matériels que vers l’accès à de nouvelles valeurs d’usage. Cette économie de fonctionnalité, émergente, est indissociable d’une économie de coopération. C’est cette proposition que nous essayons de soutenir et d’approfondir à la fois sur le plan théorique, en mobilisant les concepts de transaction et d’enquête, et sur le plan empirique grâce à deux études de cas dans le secteur du développement informatique. Ces études de cas indiquent une valorisation forte d’éléments distincts du produit en tant que tel, émergeant d’une coopération entre les partenaires impliqués pour co-construire une solution singularisée. La spécification des besoins ou la formation sont ainsi des activités qui se retrouvent au cœur du modèle économique, au-delà du strict développement de logiciel. Cette économie de coopération traduit un déplacement de création de valeur dans des transactions situées, alors qu’elle tendait à se cristalliser auparavant exclusivement dans le bien final. Et si elle est source de création de valeur, c’est parce que cette coopération est une action collective d’enquête, de résolution de situation problématique, irréductible à une coordination de contributions ou d’attentes prédéterminées. Cette « coopération » devient alors constitutive des activités/performances des acteurs engagés dans cette situation. Cette valorisation des relations coopératives dans une économie de fonctionnalité est donc liée à un dépassement d’une seule logique de l’échange, pour laisser place à une logique de co-production en situation, conduisant à la transformation de la situation elle-même et des entités que celle-ci intègre.
La espiral de conocimiento, innovación, aprendizaje en instituciones de educación superior (IES)
Authors: Fernández Mario Aguilar , Estrada Paola Fortanell , Jarquín Brenda García
Published: February 2013

Résumé L’approche moderne du développement et de la croissance, au niveau organisationnel et national, a une relation étroite avec la connaissance. Des auteurs tels que Senge (1990), Drucker (1993) et Nonaka (1994) réaffirment l’importance de la connaissance dans l’économie moderne. Comprendre la manière par laquelle les organisations créent de nouveaux produits, les méthodes et les nouvelles formes de gestion, est très pertinent, mais il est également nécessaire de comprendre comment les établissements d’enseignement supérieur génèrent, innovent et apprennent. Par conséquent, le but de ce travail est de concevoir une spirale qui intègre la production de connaissances, l’innovation, l’éducation et l’apprentissage intégral comme un moyen de parvenir à un meilleur niveau de vie des nations au travers des IES. On présente d’abord une introduction contenant une ébauche de la proposition à laquelle on ajoute une brève explication de chacun de ses éléments. Il s’achève par des conclusions et une bibliographie.
El proceso de dirección integral de las organizaciones como un problema teórico, metodológico y práctico
Authors: Pacheco Espejel Arturo Andrés
Published: February 2013

Résumé L’objectif central du présent travail est de décrire un modèle du processus de management des organisations (publiques, privées et sociales), basé sur une conceptualisation intégrale de l’organisation, entendue comme une entité sociale constituée par deux mondes (celui des « choses » et celui de l’infra-monde des « signifiés ») et de cinq dimensions (la technique, la stratégie, le social, le stucturel et l’histoire). Il s’agit aussi de présenter une méthodologie d’intervention organisationnelle destinée à l’encadrement de direction et les défis principaux pour son application concrète. Nous cherchons donc à envisager le processus de management de façon globale, intégrée, comme un problème à la fois théorique, méthodologique et pratique.
Recent Trends of Ethnic Chinese Retailing in Metropolitan Toronto
Authors: Wang Shuguang , Hii Rebecca , Zhong Jason , Du Paul
Published: February 2013

As the population diversifies in many North American cities due to increased immigration, ethnic retailing has become an important and increasingly visible component of the local retail economy. To date, business geographers have paid little attention to ethnic retailing. This paper attempts to redress this gap by providing a spatial analytical study of the demand for and supply of ethnic retail in the largest Canadian urban market, Toronto. The findings highlight that since the late 1990s, ethnic Chinese retailing in the Toronto market has continued to expand. Three key trends are identified. First, there has been a resurgence of food retailing and growth of modern large-scale supermarkets. Second, developments have begun to shift away from clusters of exclusive ethnic retailing towards a mix with mainstream businesses. Third, a new corridor of ethnic Chinese retailing has developed forming the geographical center of an emerging Chinese-dominated ethnoburb.
Vespula vulgaris(Hymenoptera: Vespidae) gynes use a sex pheromone to attract males
Authors: Brown Robert L. , El-Sayed Ashraf M. , Suckling David Maxwell , Stringer Lloyd D. , Beggs Jacqueline R.
Published: February 2013

Sex attraction studies were carried out to investigate the mate-finding behaviour of invasiveVespula vulgaris(Linnaeus) (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) wasps. Delta traps were baited with live, caged males, and gynes (virgin queens) ofV. vulgaristo determine whether either sex produced a long-range sex attractant. Traps baited with gynes caught 71 males, while the controls and live-male wasp baited traps did not catch gynes. Wind tunnel trials were performed to verify if the signal produced by the gynes was chemical in nature. First,V. vulgarismales were flown to live caged gynes, where more than half of the males tested flew upwind in a zigzagging pattern and made contact with caged gynes. Males were also flown to hexane rinses of gynes and flew upwind in a zigzagging pattern towards the gyne extract, although none made contact with the cotton roll stimulus. The results presented here demonstrate conclusively thatV. vulgarisgynes produce a sex pheromone.
β2-Adrenoreceptor Agonist Inhibits Antigen Cross-Presentation by Dendritic Cells
Authors: Hervé Julie , Dubreil Laurence , Tardif Virginie , Terme Mickael , Pogu Sylvie , Anegon Ignacio , Rozec Bertrand , Gauthier Chantal , Bach Jean-Marie , Blancou Philippe
Published: February 2013

Despite widespread usage of β-adrenergic receptor (AR) agonists and antagonists in current clinical practice, our understanding of their interactions with the immune system is surprisingly sparse. Among the AR expressed by dendritic cells (DC), β2-AR can modify in vitro cytokine release upon stimulation. Because DC play a pivotal role in CD8+ T cell immune responses, we examined the effects of β2-AR stimulation on MHC class I exogenous peptide presentation and cross-presentation capacities. We demonstrate that β2-AR agonist-exposed mature DC display a reduced ability to cross-present protein Ags while retaining their exogenous peptide presentation capability. This effect is mediated through the nonclassical inhibitory G (Gαi/0) protein. Moreover, inhibition of cross-presentation is neither due to reduced costimulatory molecule expression nor Ag uptake, but rather to impaired phagosomal Ag degradation. We observed a crosstalk between the TLR4 and β2-AR transduction pathways at the NF-κB level. In vivo, β2-AR agonist treatment of mice inhibits Ag protein cross-presentation to CD8+ T cells but preserves their exogenous MHC class I peptide presentation capability. These findings may explain some side effects on the immune system associated with stress or β-agonist treatment and pave the way for the development of new immunomodulatory strategies.
Programmed Downregulation of CCR6 Is Important for Establishment of Epidermal γδT Cells by Regulating Their Thymic Egress and Epidermal Location
Authors: Hu Shaomin , Xiong Na
Published: February 2013

The skin as the outmost epithelial tissue is under frequent physical, chemical, and biological assaults. To counter the assaults and maintain the local tissue homeostasis, the skin is stationed with various innate or innate-like lymphocytes such as γδT cells. Increasing evidence suggests that an intrathymically programmed process is involved in coordinated expression of multiple homing molecules on specific γδT cell subsets to direct their localization in different regions of the skin for the protective functions. However, detailed molecular events underlying the programmed skin distribution of specific γδT cell subsets are not fully understood. We report in this study that the temporally and spatially regulated downregulation of chemokine receptor CCR6 on fetal thymic Vγ3+ epidermal γδT precursors is involved in their thymic egress and proper localization in the epidermis. Failure of downregulation of CCR6 in the mature Vγ3+ epidermal γδT precursor cells due to the constitutive expression of transgenic CCR6 resulted in their abnormal accumulation in the fetal thymus and reduced numbers of the epidermal γδT cells. In addition, the transgenic expression of CCR6 on the Vγ3+ γδT cells also improperly increased their distribution in dermis of the skin. Those findings advanced our understanding of the molecular basis regulating the tissue specific distribution of various innate-like γδT cell lymphocytes in the skin.
C5a Receptor Signaling Prevents Folate Deficiency–Induced Neural Tube Defects in Mice
Authors: Denny Kerina J. , Coulthard Liam G. , Jeanes Angela , Lisgo Steven , Simmons David G. , Callaway Leonie K. , Wlodarczyk Bogdan , Finnell Richard H. , Woodruff Trent M. , Taylor Stephen M.
Published: February 2013

The complement system is involved in a range of diverse developmental processes, including cell survival, growth, differentiation, and regeneration. However, little is known about the role of complement in embryogenesis. In this study, we demonstrate a novel role for the canonical complement 5a receptor (C5aR) in the development of the mammalian neural tube under conditions of maternal dietary folic acid deficiency. Specifically, we found C5aR and C5 to be expressed throughout the period of neurulation in wild-type mice and localized the expression to the cephalic regions of the developing neural tube. C5aR was also found to be expressed in the neuroepithelium of early human embryos. Ablation of the C5ar1 gene or the administration of a specific C5aR peptide antagonist to folic acid–deficient pregnant mice resulted in a high prevalence of severe anterior neural tube defect-associated congenital malformations. These findings provide a new and compelling insight into the role of the complement system during mammalian embryonic development.
Current research, part E
Authors:   Geological Survey of Canada
Published: February 2013

ln the Cordillera of northwestern Canada, the Mount Harper volcanics (751 +261-18 Ma) of the Ogilvie Mountains may have formed coevally with the Little Dai basalts and the diabase intrusions (777.7 + 2 .51-1.8 Ma) of the Mackenzie Mountains. Comparison of the
Mount Harper primary pole with reference potes /rom the Mackenzie Mountains and the Canadian Shield, suggests that the Mount Harper reg ion has rotated by at least 60°. Basalticflows of the Mount Harper volcanic complex con tain at least three stable magnetic components. The primary component
in hematite and probable magnetite has a pole roughly estimated at 140°W, 29°S (t::!..=6; A.95=12°). One secondary component, attributed to synfolding burial heating or hematite formation, yields a steeply directed pole ( 166°W, 74°N; t::!..=8 sites; A.95=22°) similar
in direction to a postfolding pole (178°W, 78°N; t::!..=4 sites; ,195=9°) derived from hematitic siltstone elsewhere in the complex.
Climatological setting of the Fraser River delta and its urban estuary
Authors: Jackson P L
Published: February 2013

"Lotus land" or "Canada's banana belt" are names used by both locals and other Canadians to vividly convey that southwestern British Columbia has a relatively benign climate. The climate can be characterized as warm and wet all year with dry spells during the
summer. The temperature regime of the region is moderate, especially by Canadian standards; summers are warm but seldom hot or humid, and winters are cool but seldom cold. Annual precipitation, occurring mostly in the form of rain, is high, although summers usually have little precipitation. Winds
are generally light. One only needs to venture a few kilometres north or east into the mountains, however, for the climate to change dramatically; annual precipitation can triple, occurring mostly as snow, and temperatures can decrease by several degrees. The physiographic setting accounts to a
great extent for the region's climate as well as its large spatial variation.
Atmospheric impacts of urbanization
Authors: Jackson P L
Published: February 2013

When humans alter a natural landscape into an urbanized one, a number of atmospheric environmental impacts result. Perhaps the most potentially serious of these impacts is air pollution. In the 'chemical soup' which overlies the Fraser River delta region, people
are most concerned about ozone and inhalable particulates because of their effects on the ecosystem (ozone primarily) and human health (ozone and particulates). Steps being taken by the regional government should reduce or at least stabilize air-pollution levels in the
region.
Organic contaminants in suspended sediment upstream of the Fraser River delta
Authors: Vingarzan R , Sekela M
Published: February 2013

Trace organic contaminants were measured in suspended sediments collected between 1992 and 1994 upstream and downstream of six pulp mills located in the upper and middle Fraser River basin. Sampling was conducted under both fall low-flow and winter base-flow
conditions to assess the effect of seasonal hydrological changes on contaminant levels. Results indicate that dioxins, furans, chlorophenolics, and resin acids continue to be detected in higher levels at sites up to 300 km downstream of pulp and paper mills than at unaffected reference sites;
however, levels of dioxins and furans were found to have decreased dramatically since the implementation of abatement measures at the mills. Contaminant levels were observed to vary seasonally, with concentrations typically higher during winter base-flow periods than under fall low-flow conditions.
No change in contaminant levels was observed over the 1992-1994 sampling period, and none of the contaminants exceeded federal water quality guidelines or provincial criteria for the protection of aquatic life.
Fraser River delta seagrass ecosystems, their distributions and importance to migratory birds
Authors: Harrison P G , Dunn M
Published: February 2013

Seagrasses flourish in shallow-water habitats where their roots can penetrate into soft sediments and their leaves can receive adequate sunlight, but remain wet even at low tide. Only the native eelgrass and the dwarf eelgrass occur in the Fraser River delta.
Seagrass beds worldwide are prone to destruction by the effects of port and marina construction, shipping, and pollution; however, the beds of the
study area have expanded in recent decades, because of improved growing conditions and the introduction of dwarf eelgrass. The ecological implications of this expansion into adjacent ecosystems are complex. Bird species will be affected, because some depend on the seagrass beds for food whereas
others require unvegetated tidal flats. This paper documents the ecological importance of seagrass beds in the delta, especially to birds; provides accurate maps of seagrass distributions; explains some the changes since 1950; discusses conservation issues; and predicts possible seagrass-system
response to climate change.
Knowledge of fish ecology and its application to habitat management
Authors: Levings C D
Published: February 2013

Information on fish habitat in the lower Fraser River and estuary downstream from Agassiz is presented with emphasis on geophysical factors that may be affecting fish ecology. The application to fisheries management is considered. The lower Fraser River and
estuary provides habitat to support over 50 species of fish. Brief synopses are given of the ecology of commercially and ecologically significant fish. Fish communities in Boundary Bay and on Roberts Bank tend to be dominated by species adapted to marine conditions. Some brackish-water species are
found in the salt wedge and on Sturgeon Bank. Our knowledge of fish ecology in the lower Fraser River and estuary is based on a patchwork of studies. To enable good management of this world-class estuary into the twenty-first century, it is prudent for stakeholders to foster ongoing programs of
integrated fisheries ecosystem research in this area.
Toxicological studies of fish and invertebrates in the Fraser River estuary
Authors: Brand D G , Thompson J A J
Published: February 2013

Research projects undertaken by federal and provincial governments and university programs on stress-induced changes in biota (i.e. biomarkers) in relation to industrial and municipal activities on the Fraser River estuary are reviewed. Local effects of pollution
manifest in the invertebrate community as changes in species diversity or shifts to more pollution-tolerant species. Some indicator invertebrates (i.e.
soft-shelled clams, neogastropod whelks, and Dungeness crabs) can be used to identify contaminants within effluent dilution zones that are bioavailable to the community. They can also give some insight on biological mode and action of pollutants at the organism level. The Fraser River estuary is
also used by large numbers of fish, whose populations may be affected by environmental degradation of their habitats. Biomarkers such as detoxification enzymes, bile metabolites, and cancerous lesions have been found to be useful tools in
assessing possible sublethal effects of complex mixtures of pollutants in the river that may contribute to a decline in fish populations.
Evolution of estuarine governance in a metropolitan region: collaborating for sustainability in the Fraser River estuary
Authors: Dorcey A H J
Published: February 2013

The Fraser River Estuary Management Program facilitates coordination among the activities of more than a hundred different agencies in implementing the jointly agreed upon Estuary Management Plan. The goal of the plan is to improve environmental quality in the
Fraser River estuary while providing economic development opportunities and sustaining the quality of life in and around the estuary. Implementation takes place through the management processes and tools that have been created by the Fraser River Estuary Management Program for habitat
classification, area designation, project review, and activity planning.

Key to strengthening the Fraser River Estuary Management Program is the inclusion of collaboration with nongovernmental stakeholders, so as to build public understanding and political commitment for achieving the sustainability goals that have been adopted in the Estuary Management
Plan.
The festschrift tradition in African literature: Its implications for the future of African literary criticism
Authors: Nwahunanya Chinyere
Published: February 2013

Within the past nearly two decades or so, a number of festschrifts on African literary icons and other scholars have been published, suggesting a paradigm shift in the preferred choices of publication options open to critics of African literature. The front burner position which festschrifts now seem to occupy, the variegated nature of their structural configurations, the baggage of doubtful mix that we often get from their editors and the doubtful quality of a number of the papers published in them, are the main factors that have inspired the writing of this essay. We note that in spite of the usefulness of festschrifts as publication outlets which younger critics have often found handy, a number of inherent weaknesses have already manifested from the above-named factors, and we believe that these are portentous for African literature if they go on unchecked. Drawing analytical evidence from over twenty-five festschrifts published since 1994, this paper examines the implications of the festschrift tradition for the future of African literary criticism.
Radiative forcing of the direct aerosol effect from AeroCom Phase II simulations
Authors: Myhre G. , Samset B. H. , Schulz M. , Balkanski Y. , Bauer S. , Berntsen T. K. , Bian H. , Bellouin N. , Chin M. , Diehl T. , Easter R. C. , Feichter J. , Ghan S. J. , Hauglustaine D. , Iversen T. , Kinne S. , Kirkevåg A. , Lamarque J.-F. , Lin G. , Liu X. , Lund M. T. , Luo G. , Ma X. , van Noije T. , Penner J. E. , Rasch P. J. , Ruiz A. , Seland Ø. , Skeie R. B. , Stier P. , Takemura T. , Tsigaridis K. , Wang P. , Wang Z. , Xu L. , Yu H. , Yu F. , Yoon J.-H. , Zhang K. , Zhang H. , Zhou C.
Published: February 2013

Abstract. We report on the AeroCom Phase II direct aerosol effect (DAE) experiment where 16 detailed global aerosol models have been used to simulate the changes in the aerosol distribution over the industrial era. All 16 models have estimated the radiative forcing (RF) of the anthropogenic DAE, and have taken into account anthropogenic sulphate, black carbon (BC) and organic aerosols (OA) from fossil fuel, biofuel, and biomass burning emissions. In addition several models have simulated the DAE of anthropogenic nitrate and anthropogenic influenced secondary organic aerosols (SOA). The model simulated all-sky RF of the DAE from total anthropogenic aerosols has a range from −0.58 to −0.02 Wm−2, with a mean of −0.27 Wm−2 for the 16 models. Several models did not include nitrate or SOA and modifying the estimate by accounting for this with information from the other AeroCom models reduces the range and slightly strengthens the mean. Modifying the model estimates for missing aerosol components and for the time period 1750 to 2010 results in a mean RF for the DAE of −0.35 Wm−2. Compared to AeroCom Phase I (Schulz et al., 2006) we find very similar spreads in both total DAE and aerosol component RF. However, the RF of the total DAE is stronger negative and RF from BC from fossil fuel and biofuel emissions are stronger positive in the present study than in the previous AeroCom study. We find a tendency for models having a strong (positive) BC RF to also have strong (negative) sulphate or OA RF. This relationship leads to smaller uncertainty in the total RF of the DAE compared to the RF of the sum of the individual aerosol components. The spread in results for the individual aerosol components is substantial, and can be divided into diversities in burden, mass extinction coefficient (MEC), and normalized RF with respect to AOD. We find that these three factors give similar contributions to the spread in results.
Chemical insights, explicit chemistry and yields of secondary organic aerosol from methylglyoxal and glyoxal
Authors: Lim Y. B. , Tan Y. , Turpin B. J.
Published: February 2013

Abstract. Atmospherically abundant, volatile water soluble organic compounds formed through gas phase chemistry (e.g., glyoxal (C2), methylglyoxal (C3) and acetic acid) have great potential to form secondary organic aerosol (SOA) via aqueous chemistry in clouds, fogs and wet aerosols. This paper (1) provides chemical insights into aqueous-phase OH radical-initiated reactions leading to SOA formation from methylglyoxal and (2) uses this and a previously published glyoxal mechanism (Lim et al., 2010) to provide SOA yields for use in chemical transport models. Detailed reaction mechanisms including peroxy radical chemistry and a full kinetic model for aqueous photochemistry of acetic acid and methylglyoxal are developed and validated by comparing simulations with the experimental results from previous studies (Tan et al., 2010, 2012). This new methylglyoxal model is then combined with the previous glyoxal model (Lim et al., 2010), and is used to simulate the profiles of products and to estimate SOA yields. At cloud relevant concentrations (∼ 10−6–∼ 10−3 M; Munger et al., 1995) of glyoxal and methylglyoxal, the major photooxidation products are oxalic acid and pyruvic acid, and simulated SOA yields (by mass) are ∼ 120% for glyoxal and ∼ 80% for methylglyoxal. Oligomerization of unreacted aldehydes during droplet evaporation could enhance yields. In wet aerosols, where total dissolved organics are present at much higher concentrations (∼ 10 M), the major products are oligomers formed via organic radical-radical reactions, and simulated SOA yields (by mass) are ∼ 90% for both glyoxal and methylglyoxal.
Impact of open-ocean convection on particle fluxes and sediment dynamics in the deep margin of the Gulf of Lions
Authors: Stabholz M. , Durrieu de Madron X. , Canals M. , Khripounoff A. , Taupier-Letage I. , Testor P. , Heussner S. , Kerhervé P. , Delsaut N. , Houpert L. , Lastras G. , Dennielou B.
Published: February 2013

Abstract. The deep outer margin of the Gulf of Lions and the adjacent basin, in the western Mediterranean Sea, are regularly impacted by open-ocean convection, a major hydrodynamic event responsible for the ventilation of the deep water in the western Mediterranean Basin. However, the impact of open-ocean convection on the flux and transport of particulate matter remains poorly understood. The variability of water mass properties (i.e., temperature and salinity), currents, and particle fluxes were monitored between September 2007 and April 2009 at five instrumented mooring lines deployed between 2050 and 2350-m depth in the deepest continental margin and adjacent basin. Four of the lines followed a NW–SE transect, while the fifth one was located on a sediment wave field to the west. The results of the main, central line SC2350 ("LION") located at 42°02.5′ N, 4°41′ E, at 2350-m depth, show that open-ocean convection reached mid-water depth (≈ 1000-m depth) during winter 2007–2008, and reached the seabed (≈ 2350-m depth) during winter 2008–2009. Horizontal currents were unusually strong with speeds up to 39 cm s−1 during winter 2008–2009. The measurements at all 5 different locations indicate that mid-depth and near-bottom currents and particle fluxes gave relatively consistent values of similar magnitude across the study area except during winter 2008–2009, when near-bottom fluxes abruptly increased by one to two orders of magnitude. Particulate organic carbon contents, which generally vary between 3 and 5%, were abnormally low (≤ 1%) during winter 2008–2009 and approached those observed in surface sediments (≈ 0.6%). Turbidity profiles made in the region demonstrated the existence of a bottom nepheloid layer, several hundred meters thick, and related to the resuspension of bottom sediments. These observations support the view that open-ocean deep convection events in the Gulf of Lions can cause significant remobilization of sediments in the deep outer margin and the basin, with a subsequent alteration of the seabed likely impacting the functioning of the deep-sea ecosystem.
Technical Note: Comparison of storage strategies of sea surface microlayer samples
Authors: Schneider-Zapp K. , Salter M. E. , Mann P. J. , Upstill-Goddard R. C.
Published: February 2013

Abstract. The sea surface microlayer (SML) is an important biogeochemical system whose physico-chemical analysis often necessitates some degree of sample storage. However, many SML components degrade with time so the development of optimal storage protocols is paramount. Using freshwater and saline SML samples from a river-estuary, we interrogated temporal changes in surfactant activity (SA) and the absorbance and fluorescence of chromophoric dissolved organic matter (CDOM) over four weeks, following selected sample treatment and storage protocols. Some variability in the effectiveness of individual protocols most likely reflects sample provenance. None of the various protocols examined performed any better than dark storage at 4 °C without pre-treatment. We thus recommend this as the optimal strategy, coupled with minimal storage times as far as practicable. Future studies of SML properties should validate their chosen storage protocols independently.
Proxy benchmarks for intercomparison of 8.2 ka simulations
Authors: Morrill C. , Anderson D. M. , Bauer B. A. , Buckner R. , Gille E. P. , Gross W. S. , Hartman M. , Shah A.
Published: February 2013

Abstract. The Paleoclimate Modelling Intercomparison Project (PMIP3) now includes the 8.2 ka event as a test of model sensitivity to North Atlantic freshwater forcing. To provide benchmarks for intercomparison, we compiled and analyzed high-resolution records spanning this event. Two previously-described anomaly patterns that emerge are cooling around the North Atlantic and drier conditions in the Northern Hemisphere tropics. Newer to this compilation are more robustly-defined wetter conditions in the Southern Hemisphere tropics and regionally-limited warming in the Southern Hemisphere. Most anomalies around the globe lasted on the order of 100 to 150 yr. More quantitative reconstructions are now available and indicate cooling of ~ 1 °C and a ~ 20% decrease in precipitation in parts of Europe as well as spatial gradients in δ18O from the high to low latitudes. Unresolved questions remain about the seasonality of the climate response to freshwater forcing and the extent to which the bipolar seesaw operated in the early Holocene.
Scaling for lobe and cleft patterns in particle-laden gravity currents
Authors: Jackson A. , Turnbull B. , Munro R.
Published: February 2013

Abstract. Lobe and cleft patterns are frequently observed at the leading edge of gravity currents, including non-Boussinesq particle-laden currents such as powder snow avalanches. Despite the importance of the instability in driving air entrainment, little is known about its origin or the mechanisms behind its development. In this paper we seek to gain a better understanding of these mechanisms from a laboratory scale model of powder snow avalanches using lightweight granular material. The instability mechanisms in these flows appear to be a combination of those found in both homogeneous Boussinesq gravity currents and unsuspended granular flows, with the size of the granular particles playing a central role in determining the wavelength of the lobe and cleft pattern. When scaled by particle diameter a relationship between the Froude number and the wavelength of the lobe and cleft pattern is found, where the wavelength increases monotonically with the Froude number.
Inversion of the western Pacific subtropical high dynamic model and analysis of dynamic characteristics for its abnormality
Authors: Hong M. , Zhang R. , Li J. X. , Ge J. J. , Liu K. F.
Published: February 2013

Abstract. Based on time series data of 500 hPa potential field from NCEP/NCAR (National Center for Environmental Forecast of American/National Center for Atmospheric Research), a novel consideration of empirical orthogonal function (EOF) time–space separation and dynamic system reconstruction for time series is introduced. This method consists of two parts: first, the dynamical model inversion and model parameter optimization are carried out on the EOF time coefficient series using the genetic algorithm (GA), and, second, a nonlinear dynamic model representing the subtropical high (SH) activity and its abnormality is established. The SH activity and its abnormal mechanism is studied using the developed dynamical model. Results show that the configuration and diversification of the SH equilibriums have good correspondence with the actual short–medium term abnormal activity of the SH. Change of SH potential field brought by the combination of equilibriums is more complex than that by mutation, and their exhibition patterns are different. The mutation behavior from high-value to low-value equilibriums of the SH in summer corresponds with the southward drop of the SH in the observed weather process. The combination behavior of the two steady equilibriums corresponds with disappearance of the "double-ridge" phenomenon of the SH. Dynamical mechanisms of these phenomena are explained.
Energy Policy Act of 2005: Pseudo-Fed for Transmission Congestion
Authors: Obrecht Alexander K.
Published: February 2013

Increasing federal involvement in the wholesale electricity market, and the ever-important emphasis on renewable energy resources, exposed the inadequacies of the existing transmission infrastructure. The Energy Policy Act of 2005 (EPAct 2005) attempted to address the transmission problems butfailed to adequately consolidate federal power over transmission siting. The resulting atmosphere presents an unsustainable dichotomy in which federal involvement encourages generation dependent upon transmission access, while state control over transmission siting impedes the necessary investment and capital improvement. Despite the efforts of EPAct 2005, a coherent and effective national energy policy remains unobtainable without the ability to incentivize generation and guarantee access to transmission by facilitating its development across state lines.This note proceeds in two sections. First, the background section provides a brief history of federally mandated deregulation in the wholesale electricity market. A brief summary of EPAct 2005 then explains Congress's attempt to encourage transmission investment by allowing limited federal jurisdiction over the siting process. Second, the note analyzes the current pressures exerted on the transmission grid by renewable energy and inadequate state siting processes. The analysis then addresses the judicial interpretations of EPAct 2005 and how the United States Courts of Appeals delayed federal jurisdiction over transmission siting for the foreseeable future.
Europe's Parliament: People, Places, Politics
Authors: Mocek Ondřej
Published: February 2013

Stephen Clark, Julian Priestley (2012): Europe's Parliament: People, Places, Politics, John Harper Publishing. London, 432 pages.