bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transverse Seismic Performance Index System of Urban Mass Transit Underground Structures
Authors: Dong Zheng Fang , Li Feng Li , Kong Qing Mei
Published: March 2015

The transverse seismic performance index system of urban mass transit underground structures was presented, which included both intensity index of component and overall deformation index, in order to reasonably evaluate its damage degree under seismic excitations. Intensity index of component had two grades and limit values of two levels ware provided. Overall deformation index included story drift angle for rectangular underground structures and diameter deformation rate for shield tunnels. Performance index values of urban mass transit rectangular underground structure story drift angle ware put forward by reference to modified performance index values of ground structure story drift angle, which was based on a statistical analysis for experiment data of forty-six groups concrete-filled steel tubular frames and one hundred forty-five groups steel-reinforced concrete frames and took into account similarities and differences between surface structures and underground structures. Based on relation between tunnel diameter deformation and stress state of tunnel concrete and bolts, the diameter deformation rate was derived from the analytical solution using compatibility of deformation for a segment cross section. And the diameter deformation rate was also computed by means of incremental dynamic analysis method for different sites under various earthquakes. It is found in the study that based on two performance levels, limiting value of diameter deformation rate is obtained.
Experimental Research on Behavior of Axially Square CFRP Steel Tubular Confined Recycled Aggregate Concrete Long Columns
Authors: Liang Jiong Feng , Yi Ping Hua , Wang Jian Bao
Published: March 2015

Seven axially square CFRP steel tubular confined recycled aggregate concrete long columns were experimentally investigated to study their static behavior. The influence of the slenderness ratio, recycled coarse aggregate replacement ratio, layers of CFRP jackets effect on the performance of axial compression. The test results show that the higher the recycled coarse aggregate content and the slenderness ratio, the greater the specimen ultimate bearing capacity is smaller, and the more the layers of CFRP jackets, the greater the specimen ultimate bearing capacity.
Study on the Sluice Dynamic Characteristics under Concrete Cracking Condition
Authors: He Yong , Liu Lian Jian , Wang Xin Jian , Bie Ya Jing , Qiang Sheng
Published: March 2015

The penetration cracks in sluice concrete structure have more disadvantage influence on the structure integrity. On the condition of earthquake, it may cause structure collapse. For a typical sluice structure found penetration crack in construction, the finite element model is created and the structure dynamic computation is applied with response spectrum method. The calculation results show if the reinforced steel bar cross the crack is not rusted and destroyed, the tension stress in the sluice and the general safety factor against sliding will meet the corresponding standard. As for the existing cracks, seepage prevention is suggested to avoid steel bar against rust.
A Simplified Model for Stress Analysis of Tunnel Surrounding Rock with Confinement
Authors: Qiu Wen Bai , Cao Yang Yue Ye , Jiang Zhi Gang , Meng Chao Mei
Published: March 2015

Cases of tunneling adjacent to existing structures are common nowadays in urban construction. The interaction between newly constructed tunnels and existing underground structures is an important issue, while the previous works mainly focused on the effect that constructing a new tunnel would have on existing structures. In this article, the effect that existing structures would have on newly constructed tunnels was come up with, and a model was proposed to analyze the confinement of existing structures to the tunnel surrounding rock. Discussions were carried out theoretically and numerically.
Comparative Analysis of Ground Settlement Caused by Two Kinds of Tunnel Excavation Method
Authors: Yuan Chang Feng , Hang Hai Bin , Wang Jin Chao , Yuan Zi Jin
Published: March 2015

By Inverse analysis through the actual monitoring data and laboratory test, get physical and mechanical parameters of rock and soil mass, use the numerical simulation method to simulate the surface subsidence process of Qingdao city tunnel ZK1 + 810 ~ ZK2 + 810 interval caused by two tunnel excavation methods (the actual use of up and down the steps method and the planned use of the advancing drift whole section method) and comparatively analysis surface subsidence caused by the two methods of construction. The research results show that the surface subsidence causes by the two kinds of construction technology are experienced four stages, namely the impact in advance stage of rapid growth stage, slow growth stage, subsidence and subsidence stabilization stage; The maximum value of surface subsidence caused by up and down the steps method of excavation is greater than that of the advancing drift whole section method; transverse range of ground surface settlement induced by step excavation is about 2D from both sides of the center line of the tunnel, the horizontal range of surface subsidence in advancing drift under construction is generally about 1.5 D ~ 2 D; longitudinal range of the surface subsidence caused by advancing drift under the construction is smaller than method of up and down the steps. The conclusion provides the technical support for the tunnel design and construction.
Data Analysis and Evaluation to Water-Sealed Underground Storage Cavern Water Curtain Efficiency Test
Authors: Liu Jing Hua , Huang Sheng Nan , Chen Gang
Published: March 2015

Water curtain efficiency test is the key method to evaluate the tightness and reliability of water curtain system. This thesis taking the cavern in Yantai as an example, based on the data of three different hydrodynamic condition stages during efficiency test, in combination with the important judgment parameter of water curtain efficiency-critical pressure value, the low efficiency of rock area was revealed by analyzing and evaluating the conduction effect of fissure water pressure. In order to improve the efficiency, drilled additional boreholes in low efficiency area. At last, through the test to evaluate efficiency improvement of new drilled boreholes. The test result shows that: the water curtain efficiency test can able to accurately determine the low efficiency area in rock mass, additional boreholes can significantly improve the pressure of low efficiency boreholes and can achieve the tightness requirements of cavern.
Excavation Simulation of Tunnel with Loess-Rock Belt Geological Condition
Authors: Niu Hong Tao
Published: March 2015

With the development of in the western area, transportation infrastructure meets more and more tunnels covered by loess soil. During the excavation of these tunnels, special geological problems are inevitably encountered when through the loess-rock interface. With regard to these problems, the present paper establishes a three-dimensional numerical model by finite different software Flac 3D. Based on this model, the up-down excavation processes of the tunnel through loess-rock interface are simulated.
The Influence Analysis for Yushiling Tunnel Blasting Impact on Dam
Authors: Wu Xiong Wei , Wu Guo Fang , Deng Cheng Fa
Published: March 2015

This paper analyzes the measured data on Yushiling dam blast vibration which affected by blasting Yushiling Tunnel Construction,the results show that the monitoring of the dam each measuring point are below the maximum blasting vibration safety control standards, measured master oscillator frequencies greater than 20Hz, does not cause the dam resonance, vibration and shock wave generated by a small deformation of the dam, the dam did not cause abnormal deformation, the result of dam safety assessment to provide a scientific basis, and provide reference for similar projects.
The Study on Safety Management of Drilling-Blasting Metro Station Construction Based on OWA Operator and Gray Theory
Authors: Zhao Jin Xian , Liu Min , Li Fan
Published: March 2015

This paper proposes safety management evaluation system of metro station project based on factors which the construction techniques and process of drilling-blasting metro station involved.Then the paper uses the OWA operator to determine the weights of the index and adopts gray theory to evaluate safety of drilling-blasting metro station construction based on measure of metro station project safety management.Finally,the paper puts forward recommendations of safety management according to the evaluation results.
Design and Implementation of a Comprehensive Web-Based Survey for Ovarian Cancer Survivorship with an Analysis of Prediagnosis Symptoms via Text Mining
Authors: Sun Jiayang , Bogie Kath M. , Teagno Joe , Sun Yu-Hsiang (Sam) , Carter Rebecca R. , Cui Licong , Zhang Guo-Qiang
Published: March 2015

Ovarian cancer (OvCa) is the most lethal gynecologic disease in the United States, with an overall 5-year survival rate of 44.5%, about half of the 89.2% for all breast cancer patients. To identify factors that possibly contribute to the long-term survivorship of women with OvCa, we conducted a comprehensive online Ovarian Cancer Survivorship Survey from 2009 to 2013. This paper presents the design and implementation of our survey, introduces its resulting data source, the OVA-CRADLE™ (Clinical Research Analytics and Data Lifecycle Environment), and illustrates a sample application of the survey and data by an analysis of prediagnosis symptoms, using text mining and statistics. The OVA-CRADLE™ is an application of our patented Physio-MIMI technology, facilitating Web-based access, online query and exploration of data. The prediagnostic symptoms and association of early-stage OvCa diagnosis with endometriosis provide potentially important indicators for future studies in this field.
Atrial Septal Defects – Clinical Manifestations, Echo Assessment, and Intervention
Authors: Martin Seth S. , Shapiro Edward P. , Mukherjee Monica
Published: March 2015

Atrial septal defect (ASD) is a common congenital abnormality that occurs in the form of ostium secundum, ostium primum, sinus venosus, and rarely, coronary sinus defects. Pathophysiologic consequences of ASDs typically begin in adulthood, and include arrhythmia, paradoxical embolism, cerebral abscess, pulmonary hypertension, and right ventricular failure. Two-dimensional (2D) transthoracic echocardiography with Doppler is a central aspect of the evaluation. This noninvasive imaging modality often establishes the diagnosis and provides critical information guiding intervention. A comprehensive echocardiogram includes evaluation of anatomical ASD characteristics, flow direction, associated abnormalities (eg, anomalous pulmonary veins), right ventricular anatomy and function, pulmonary pressures, and the pulmonary/systemic flow ratio. The primary indication for ASD closure is right heart volume overload, whether symptoms are present or not. ASD closure may also be reasonable in other contexts, such as paradoxical embolism. ASD type and local clinical expertise guide choice of a percutaneous versus surgical approach to ASD closure.
Ad-REIC Gene Therapy: Promising Results in a Patient with Metastatic CRPC following Chemotherapy
Authors: Kumon Hiromi , Sasaki Katsumi , Ariyoshi Yuichi , Sadahira Takuya , Ebara Shin , Hiraki Takao , Kanazawa Susumu , Yanai Hiroyuki , Watanabe Masami , Nasu Yasutomo
Published: March 2015

A 63-year-old man with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) was successfully treated for two years with in situ gene therapy using an adenovirus vector carrying the human REIC/Dkk-3 gene (Ad-REIC), following chemotherapy. Ad-REIC mediates simultaneous induction of cancer-selective apoptosis and augmentation of antitumor immunity, and a Phase I/IIa clinical study on Ad-REIC has been conducted at Okayama University Hospital since January 2011. At the time of enrollment in December 2012, the patient presented with rapid progression of lymph node (LN) metastases. Two scheduled Ad-REIC injections and 10 additional Ad-REIC injections into metastatic pelvic and para-aortic LNs under CT guidance, with an average four weeks’ interval, exhibited the potent direct and indirect effects of Ad-REIC as a therapeutic cancer vaccine. During the next 12 months, three additional injections into para-aortic LNs showing regrowth achieved adequate control of all metastatic LNs with prostate-specific antigen (PSA) decline, without any particular adverse events.
Deriving polarization properties of desert-reflected solar spectra with PARASOL data
Authors: Sun W. , Baize R. R. , Lukashin C. , Hu Y.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Highlights: 1. Spectral polarization state of reflected solar radiation is needed in correcting satellite data. 2. An algorithm for deriving spectral polarization state of solar light from desert is reported. 3. PARASOL data at 3 polarized channels are used in deriving polarization of whole spectra. 4. Desert-reflected solar ligh's polarization state at any wavelength can be obtained. One of the major objectives of the Climate Absolute Radiance and Refractivity Observatory (CLARREO) is to conduct highly accurate spectral observations to provide an on-orbit inter-calibration standard for relevant Earth observing sensors with various channels. To calibrate an Earth observing sensor's measurements with the highly accurate data from the CLARREO, errors in the measurements caused by the sensor's sensitivity to the polarization state of light must be corrected. For correction of the measurement errors due to the light's polarization, both the instrument's dependence to incidence's polarization status and the on-orbit knowledge of polarization state of light as function of observed scene type, viewing geometry, and solar wavelength, are required. In this study, an algorithm for deriving spectral polarization state of solar light from desert is reported. The desert/bare land surface is assumed to be composed of two types of areas: fine sand grains with diffuse reflection (Lambertian non-polarizer) and quartz-rich sand particles with facets of various orientations (specular-reflection polarizer). The adding-doubling radiative transfer model (ADRTM) is applied to integrate the atmospheric absorption and scattering in the system. Empirical models are adopted in obtaining the diffuse spectral reflectance of sands and the optical depth of the dust aerosols over the desert. The ratio of non-polarizer area to polarizer area and the angular distribution of the facet orientations are determined by fitting the modeled polarization states of light to the measurements at 3 polarized channels (490, 670, and 865 nm) by the Polarization and Anisotropy of Reflectances for Atmospheric Science instrument coupled with Observations from a Lidar (PARASOL). Based on this physical model of surface, desert-reflected solar light's polarization state at any wavelength in the whole solar spectra can be calculated with the ADRTM.
Past changes in the vertical distribution of ozone – Part 3: Analysis and interpretation of trends
Authors: Harris N. R. P. , Hassler B. , Tummon F. , Bodeker G. E. , Hubert D. , Petropavlovskikh I. , Steinbrecht W. , Anderson J. , Bhartia P. K. , Boone C. D. , Bourassa A. , Davis S. M. , Degenstein D. , Delcloo A. , Frith S. M. , Froidevaux L. , Godin-Beekmann S. , Jones N. , Kurylo M. J. , Kyrölä E. , Laine M. , Leblanc S. T. , Lambert J.-C. , Liley B. , Mahieu E. , Maycock A. , de Mazière M. , Parrish A. , Querel R. , Rosenlof K. H. , Roth C. , Sioris C. , Staehelin J. , Stolarski R. S. , Stübi R. , Tamminen J. , Vigouroux C. , Walker K. , Wang H. J. , Wild J. , Zawodny J. M.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Trends in the vertical distribution of ozone are reported and compared for a number of new and recently revised datasets. The amount of ozone-depleting compounds in the stratosphere (as measured by Equivalent Effective Stratospheric Chlorine – EESC) maximised in the second half of the 1990s. We therefore examine the trends in the periods before and after that peak to see if any change in trend is discernible in the ozone record. Prior to 1998, trends in the upper stratosphere (~ 45 km, 4 hPa) are found to be −5 to −10% per decade at mid-latitudes and closer to −5% per decade in the tropics. No trends are found in the mid-stratosphere (28 km, 30 hPa). Negative trends are seen in the lower stratosphere at mid-latitudes in both hemispheres and in the deep tropics. However it is hard to be categorical about the trends in the lower stratosphere for three reasons: (i) there are fewer measurements, (ii) the data quality is poorer, and (iii) the measurements in the 1990s are perturbed by aerosols from the Mt. Pinatubo eruption in 1991. These findings are similar to those reported previously even though the measurements for the two main satellite instruments (SBUV and SAGE II) and the ground-based Umkehr and ozonesonde stations have been revised. There is no sign of a continued negative trend in the upper stratosphere since 1998: instead there is a hint of an average positive trend of ~ 2% per decade in mid-latitudes and ~ 3% per decade in the tropics. The significance of these upward trends is investigated using different assumptions of the independence of the trend estimates found from different datasets. The averaged upward trends are significant if the trends derived from various datasets are assumed to be independent, but are generally not significant if the trends are not independent. This arises because many of the underlying measurement records are used in more than one merged dataset. At this point it is not possible to say which assumption is best. Including an estimate of the drift of the overall ozone observing system decreases the significance of the trends. The significance will become clearer as (i) more years are added to the observational record, (ii) further improvements are made to the historic ozone record (e.g. through algorithm development), and (iii) the data merging techniques are refined, particularly through a more rigorous treatment of uncertainties.
Investigating bias in the application of curve fitting programs to atmospheric time series
Authors: Pickers P. A. , Manning A. C.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. The decomposition of an atmospheric time series into its constituent parts is an essential tool for identifying and isolating variations of interest from a data set, and is widely used to obtain information about sources, sinks and trends in climatically important gases. Such procedures involve fitting appropriate mathematical functions to the data. However, it has been demonstrated that the application of such curve fitting procedures can introduce bias, and thus influence the scientific interpretation of the data sets. We investigate the potential for bias associated with the application of three curve fitting programs, known as HPspline, CCGCRV and STL, using multi-year records of CO2, CH4 and O3 data from three atmospheric monitoring field stations. These three curve fitting programs are widely used within the greenhouse gas measurement community to analyse atmospheric time series, but have not previously been compared extensively. The programs were rigorously tested for their ability to accurately represent the salient features of atmospheric time series, their ability to cope with outliers and gaps in the data, and for sensitivity to the values used for the input parameters needed for each program. We find that the programs can produce significantly different curve fits, and these curve fits can be dependent on the input parameters selected. There are notable differences between the results produced by the three programs for many of the decomposed components of the time series, such as the representation of seasonal cycle characteristics and the long-term (multi-year) growth rate. The programs also vary significantly in their response to gaps and outliers in the time series. Overall, we found that none of the three programs were superior, and that each program had its strengths and weaknesses. Thus, we provide a list of recommendations on the appropriate use of these three curve fitting programs for certain types of data sets, and for certain types of analyses and applications. In addition, we recommend that sensitivity tests are performed in any study using curve fitting programs, to ensure that results are not unduly influenced by the input smoothing parameters chosen. Our findings also have implications for previous studies that have relied on a single curve fitting program to interpret atmospheric time series measurements. This is demonstrated by using two other curve fitting programs to replicate work in Piao et al. (2008) on zero-crossing analyses of atmospheric CO2 seasonal cycles to investigate terrestrial biosphere changes. We highlight the importance of using more than one program, to ensure results are consistent, reproducible, and free from bias.
A comprehensive observational filter for satellite infrared limb sounding of gravity waves
Authors: Trinh Q. T. , Kalisch S. , Preusse P. , Chun H.-Y. , Eckermann S. D. , Ern M. , Riese M.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. This paper describes a comprehensive observational filter for satellite infrared limb sounding of gravity waves. The filter considers instrument visibility and observation geometry with a high level of accuracy. It contains four main processes: visibility filter, projection of the wavelength on the tangent-point track, aliasing effect, and calculation of the observed vertical wavelength. The observation geometries of the SABER (Sounding of the Atmosphere using Broadband Emission Radiometry) and HIRDLS (High Resolution Dynamics Limb Sounder) are mimicked. Gravity waves (GWs) simulated by coupling a convective GW source (CGWS) scheme and the gravity wave regional or global ray tracer (GROGRAT) are used as an example for applying the observational filter. Simulated spectra in terms of horizontal and vertical wave numbers (wavelengths) of gravity wave momentum flux (GWMF) are analyzed under the influence of the filter. We find that the most important processes, which have significant influence on the spectrum are the visibility filter (for both SABER and HIRDLS observation geometries) and aliasing for SABER and projection on tangent-point track for HIRDLS. The vertical wavelength distribution is mainly affected by the retrieval as part of the "visibility filter" process. In addition, the short-horizontal-scale spectrum may be projected for some cases into a longer horizontal wavelength interval which originally was not populated. The filter largely reduces GWMF values of very short horizontal wavelength waves. The implications for interpreting observed data are discussed.
Contribution of proton and electron precipitation to the observed electron concentration in October–November 2003 and September 2005
Authors: Verronen P. T. , Andersson M. E. , Kero A. , Enell C.-F. , Wissing J. M. , Talaat E. R. , Kauristie K. , Palmroth M. , Sarris T. E. , Armandillo E.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Understanding the altitude distribution of particle precipitation forcing is vital for the assessment of its atmospheric and climate impacts. However, the proportion of electron and proton forcing around the mesopause region during solar proton events is not always clear due to uncertainties in satellite-based flux observations. Here we use electron concentration observations of the European Incoherent Scatter Scientific Association (EISCAT) incoherent scatter radars located at Tromsø (69.58° N, 19.23° E) to investigate the contribution of proton and electron precipitation to the changes taking place during two solar proton events. The EISCAT measurements are compared to the results from the Sodankylä Ion and Neutral Chemistry Model (SIC). The proton ionization rates are calculated by two different methods – a simple energy deposition calculation and the Atmospheric Ionization Model Osnabrück (AIMOS v1.2), the latter providing also the electron ionization rates. Our results show that in general the combination of AIMOS and SIC is able to reproduce the observed electron concentration within ± 50% when both electron and proton forcing is included. Electron contribution is dominant above 90 km, and can contribute significantly also in the upper mesosphere especially during low or moderate proton forcing. In the case of strong proton forcing, the AIMOS electron ionization rates seem to suffer from proton contamination of satellite-based flux data. This leads to overestimation of modelled electron concentrations by up to 90% between 75–90 km and up to 100–150% at 70–75 km. Above 90 km, the model bias varies significantly between the events. Although we cannot completely rule out EISCAT data issues, the difference is most likely a result of the spatio-temporal fine structure of electron precipitation during individual events that cannot be fully captured by sparse in situ flux (point) measurements, nor by the statistical AIMOS model which is based upon these observations.
Carbon dioxide transport across the hillslope–riparian–stream continuum in a boreal headwater catchment
Authors: Leith F. I. , Dinsmore K. J. , Wallin M. B. , Billett M. F. , Heal K. V. , Laudon H. , Öquist M. G. , Bishop K.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Headwater streams export CO2 as lateral downstream export and vertical evasion from the stream surface. CO2 in boreal headwater streams generally originates from adjacent terrestrial areas, so determining the sources and rate of CO2 transport along the hillslope–riparian–stream continuum could improve estimates of CO2 export via the aquatic pathway, especially by quantifying evasion at higher temporal resolutions. Continuous measurements of dissolved CO2 concentrations and water table were made along the hillslope–riparian–stream continuum in the Västrabäcken sub-catchment of the Krycklan catchment, Sweden. Daily water and CO2 export from the hillslope and riparian zone were estimated over one hydrological year (October 2012–September 2013) using a flow-concentration model and compared with measured lateral downstream CO2 export. Total water export over the hydrological year from the hillslope was 230 mm yr−1 compared with 270 mm yr−1 from the riparian zone. This corresponds well (proportional to the relative upslope contributing area) to the annual catchment runoff of 265 mm yr−1. Total CO2 export from the riparian zone to the stream was 3.0 g CO2-C m−2 yr−1. A hotspot for riparian CO2 export was observed at 30–50 cm depth (accounting for 71 % of total riparian export). Seasonal variability was high with export peaks during the spring flood and autumn storm events. Downstream lateral CO2 export (determined from stream water dissolved CO2 concentrations and discharge) was 1.2 g CO2-C m−2 yr−1. Subtracting downstream lateral export from riparian export (3.0 g CO2-C m−2 yr−1) gives 1.8 g CO2-C m−2 yr−1 which can be attributed to evasion losses (accounting for 60 % of export via the aquatic pathway). The results highlight the importance of terrestrial CO2 export, especially from the riparian zone, for determining catchment aquatic CO2 losses and the importance of the CO2 evasion component to carbon export via the aquatic conduit.
Microbial iron uptake in the naturally fertilized waters in the vicinity of the Kerguelen Islands: phytoplankton–bacteria interactions
Authors: Fourquez M. , Obernosterer I. , Davies D. M. , Trull T. W. , Blain S.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Iron (Fe) uptake by the microbial community and the contribution of three different size fractions was determined during spring phytoplankton blooms in the naturally Fe-fertilized area off the Kerguelen Islands (KEOPS2). Total Fe uptake in surface waters was on average 34 ± 6 pmol Fe L-1 d-1, and microplankton (> 25 μm size fraction; 40–69%) and pico-nanoplankton (0.8–25 μm size fraction; 29–59%) were the main contributors. The contribution of heterotrophic bacteria (0.2–0.8 μm size fraction) to total Fe uptake was low at all stations (1–2%). Iron uptake rates normalized to carbon biomass were highest for pico-nanoplankton above the Kerguelen Plateau and for microplankton in the downstream plume. We also investigated the potential competition between heterotrophic bacteria and phytoplankton for the access to Fe. Bacterial Fe uptake rates normalized to carbon biomass were highest in incubations with bacteria alone, and dropped in incubations containing other components of the microbial community. Interestingly, the decrease in bacterial Fe uptake rate (up to 26-fold) was most pronounced in incubations containing pico-nanoplankton and bacteria, while the bacterial Fe uptake was only reduced by 2- to 8-fold in incubations containing the whole community (bacteria + pico-nanoplankton + microplankton). In Fe-fertilized waters, the bacterial Fe uptake rates normalized to carbon biomass were positively correlated with primary production. Taken together, these results suggest that heterotrophic bacteria are outcompeted by small-sized phytoplankton cells for the access to Fe during the spring bloom development, most likely due to the limitation by organic matter. We conclude that the Fe and carbon cycles are tightly coupled and driven by a complex interplay of competition and synergy between different members of the microbial community.
Technical Note: Methionine, a precursor of methane in living plants
Authors: Lenhart K. , Althoff F. , Greule M. , Keppler F.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. When terrestrial plants were identified as producers of the greenhouse gas methane, much discussion and debate ensued not only about their contribution to the global methane budget but also with regard to the validity of the observation itself. Although the phenomenon has now become more accepted for both living and dead plants, the mechanism of methane formation in living plants remains to be elucidated and its precursor compounds to be identified. We made use of stable isotope techniques to verify the in vivo formation of methane, and, in order to identify the carbon precursor, 13C positionally labeled organic compounds were employed. Here we show that the amino acid L-methionine acts as a methane precursor in living plants. Employing 13C-labeled methionine clearly identified the sulfur-bound methyl group of methionine as a carbon precursor of methane released from lavender (Lavandula angustifolia). Furthermore, when lavender plants were stressed physically, methane release rates and the stable carbon isotope values of the emitted methane greatly increased. Our results provide additional support that plants possess a mechanism for methane production and suggest that methionine might play an important role in the formation of methane in living plants, particularly under stress conditions.
Stable isotopes in barnacles as a tool to understand green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) regional movement patterns
Authors: Detjen M. , Sterling E. , Gómez A.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Sea turtles are migratory animals that travel long distances between their feeding and breeding grounds. Traditional methods for researching sea turtle migratory behavior have important disadvantages, and the development of alternatives would enhance our ability to monitor and manage these globally endangered species. Here we report on the isotope signatures in green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) barnacles (Platylepas sp.) and discuss their potential relevance as tools with which to study green sea turtle migration and habitat use patterns. We analyzed oxygen (δ18O) and carbon (δ13C) isotope ratios in barnacle calcite layers from specimens collected from green turtles captured at the Palmyra Atoll National Wildlife Refuge (PANWR) in the Central Pacific. Carbon isotopes were not informative in this study. However, the oxygen isotope results suggest likely regional movement patterns when mapped onto a predictive oxygen isotope map of the Pacific. Barnacle proxies could therefore complement other methods in understanding regional movement patterns, informing more effective conservation policy that takes into account connectivity between populations.
Mechanistic site-based emulation of a global ocean biogeochemical model (MEDUSA 1.0) for parametric analysis and calibration: an application of the Marine Model Optimization Testbed (MarMOT 1.1)
Authors: Hemmings J. C. P. , Challenor P. G. , Yool A.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Biogeochemical ocean circulation models used to investigate the role of plankton ecosystems in global change rely on adjustable parameters to capture the dominant biogeochemical dynamics of a complex biological system. In principle, optimal parameter values can be estimated by fitting models to observational data, including satellite ocean colour products such as chlorophyll that achieve good spatial and temporal coverage of the surface ocean. However, comprehensive parametric analyses require large ensemble experiments that are computationally infeasible with global 3-D simulations. Site-based simulations provide an efficient alternative but can only be used to make reliable inferences about global model performance if robust quantitative descriptions of their relationships with the corresponding 3-D simulations can be established. The feasibility of establishing such a relationship is investigated for an intermediate complexity biogeochemistry model (MEDUSA) coupled with a widely used global ocean model (NEMO). A site-based mechanistic emulator is constructed for surface chlorophyll output from this target model as a function of model parameters. The emulator comprises an array of 1-D simulators and a statistical quantification of the uncertainty in their predictions. The unknown parameter-dependent biogeochemical environment, in terms of initial tracer concentrations and lateral flux information required by the simulators, is a significant source of uncertainty. It is approximated by a mean environment derived from a small ensemble of 3-D simulations representing variability of the target model behaviour over the parameter space of interest. The performance of two alternative uncertainty quantification schemes is examined: a direct method based on comparisons between simulator output and a sample of known target model "truths" and an indirect method that is only partially reliant on knowledge of the target model output. In general, chlorophyll records at a representative array of oceanic sites are well reproduced. The use of lateral flux information reduces the 1-D simulator error considerably, consistent with a major influence of advection at some sites. Emulator robustness is assessed by comparing actual error distributions with those predicted. With the direct uncertainty quantification scheme, the emulator is reasonably robust over all sites. The indirect uncertainty quantification scheme is less reliable at some sites but scope for improving its performance is identified. The results demonstrate the strong potential of the emulation approach to improve the effectiveness of site-based methods. This represents important progress towards establishing a robust site-based capability that will allow comprehensive parametric analyses to be achieved for improving global models and quantifying uncertainty in their predictions.
Century-scale simulations of the response of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet to a warming climate
Authors: Cornford S. L. , Martin D. F. , Payne A. J. , Ng E. G. , Le Brocq A. M. , Gladstone R. M. , Edwards T. L. , Shannon S. R. , Agosta C. , van den Broeke M. R. , Hellmer H. H. , Krinner G. , Ligtenberg S. R. M. , Timmermann R. , Vaughan D. G.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. We use the BISICLES adaptive mesh ice sheet model to carry out one, two, and three century simulations of the fast-flowing ice streams of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet. Each of the simulations begins with a geometry and velocity close to present day observations, and evolves according to variation in meteoric ice accumulation, ice shelf melting, and mesh resolution. Future changes in accumulation and melt rates range from no change, through anomalies computed by atmosphere and ocean models driven by the E1 and A1B emissions scenarios, to spatially uniform melt rates anomalies that remove most of the ice shelves over a few centuries. We find that variation in the resulting ice dynamics is dominated by the choice of initial conditions, ice shelf melt rate and mesh resolution, although ice accumulation affects the net change in volume above flotation to a similar degree. Given sufficient melt rates, we compute grounding line retreat over hundreds of kilometers in every major ice stream, but the ocean models do not predict such melt rates outside of the Amundsen Sea Embayment until after 2100. Sensitivity to mesh resolution is spurious, and we find that sub-kilometer resolution is needed along most regions of the grounding line to avoid systematic under-estimates of the retreat rate, although resolution requirements are more stringent in some regions – for example the Amundsen Sea Embayment – than others – such as the Möller and Institute ice streams.
The Role of Personality in Angel Investing
Authors: Murnieks Charles Y. , Sudek Richard , Wiltbank Robert
Published: March 2015

This paper offers an examination of the relationship between an entrepreneur's personality and angel investor evaluations of the management team of venture opportunities. The authors use the Five Factor Model of personality to investigate whether angels rate the management teams of investment opportunities differently, depending on the personality profile of the focal entrepreneur. We also analyse the influence of an entrepreneur's start-up experience and the angel investor's investing experience on the evaluation of the management team. Hierarchical linear modelling of 1,988 investment evaluations from 40 different angels suggests that investor ratings of management teams are influenced by the personality traits of the lead entrepreneur.
The Innovation Process in Emerging Economies
Authors: Lingelbach David , Sriram Ven , Mersha Tigineh , Saffu Kojo
Published: March 2015

The authors investigate the impact of two contrasting logics, effectuation and causation, on the innovation process in emerging economies (EEs). Effectuation theory, which emphasizes responses to uncertainty, is integrated with the innovation process literature, which emphasizes resource constraints. In particular, the authors show that in EEs the flexibility dimension of effectuation is underemphasized, while its pre-commitment dimension is overemphasized. The combination of effectuation and causation mechanisms is influenced by the industry context, as well as by the type, degree and timing of resource constraints. Employing longitudinal data from six innovation process cases across one industry (financial services) and four EEs (Botswana, Ethiopia, Ghana and South Africa), the authors employ a process approach using real-world data to support their propositions.
Family attitudes towards an electronic personal health record in a long term care facility
Authors: Nippak Pria M.D. , Isaac W. W. , Geertsen A. , J. Ikeda-Douglas C.
Published: March 2015

Objective: To explore the perceptions of family members regarding the importance of an electronic personal health record (EPHR) called MyChart as a healthcare information source to support the care of their loved ones within a long term care (LTC) facility in Toronto, Ontario.Methods: One hundred and fifty eight family members of the patients in six LTC units at the hospital were given a survey to determine their perceptions regarding the utility of the content items within an EPHR that was recently adopted by the LTC institution.Results: The response rate was 41% (n = 65). Many family members (n = 48) felt it was important to have access to their loved one’s EPHR. Respondents ranked test results (38%; n = 25), doctor’s clinical notes (26%; n = 17), medication lists (15%; n = 10) and upcoming appointments (11%; n = 7) as the number one most important content item that they would want to have access to. In addition to the standard content items found within an EPHR, family members requested electronic access to a variety of additional medical content items that are not currently offered within the EPHR, such as status alerts. Overall, they felt that an EPHR would enhance communication between the care team and the family, however 30% of family members identified concerns linked to security and confidentiality of the electronic health record information.Conclusions: Family members felt that an EPHR would be an important tool in the LTC facility to assist with information exchange between care providers and the family. It is important to consider that the additional information requested beyond what is traditionally found in an EPHR as well as the specific communication concerns raised, may be limited to a LTC setting.
Een aanzet voor een methodiek tot het voorkomen van (internationale) insolventies
Authors: Adriaanse Jan A.A. , van Beukering Ellen J.M. , van der Rest Jean-Pierre I.
Published: March 2015

A first step towards a methodology for avoiding (international) insolvenciesReport of practical research towards better conflict management at companies in financial distress

Research has been conducted by Leiden Law School into the efficacy of an instrument based on insolvency practice, ‘Harvard negotiation’ and ‘serious gaming’ aiming at better conflict management in case of (near) bankruptcy. Business rescue workout simulation games were played at different places worldwide. Serious gaming provides insight in the complexity and dynamics of (informal) reorganizations. The research further confirms that the Harvard negotiation-principles and the INSOL International Statement of Principles for a Global approach to multi-creditor workouts may provide a useful contribution to the realization of a successful (international) financial restructuring. The intervention of skilled neutrals is often significative. More focus on communication, negotiation and cooperative dispute resolution is also consistent with the initiatives of legislators and policymakers which stimulate companies to restructure at an early stage of financial distress. These developments also make ADR-skills become of more relevance to (insolvency) professionals.
Regulation of abscisic acid metabolism in relation to the dormancy and germination of cereal grains
Authors: Fidler Justyna , Zdunek-Zastocka Edyta , Bielawski Wiesław
Published: March 2015

Seed dormancy is of particular importance in the cultivation of cereals, as it directly affects the quality of crop yield. If the dormancy period is too short, this may lead to pre-harvest sprouting, whereas a dormancy period that is too long may cause uneven germination; both of these scenarios are associated with economic losses. Most enzymes engaged in the metabolism of abscisic acid (ABA) have been identified, and significant progress has been made in understanding the role of this phytohormone in the induction and maintenance of dormancy, mainly as a result of research conducted in Arabidopsis. Much less is known about the metabolism and function of ABA in cereal grains, especially in relation to dormancy and germination. This review focuses on the regulation of ABA metabolism in dormant and non-dormant cereal grains, in both the dry state and upon imbibition. Moreover, this review describes the influence of factors such as after-ripening, light, temperature, nitric oxide, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) on the dormancy and germination of cereal grains. These factors, with the exception of ROS, appear to affect the level of dormancy and germination of grains through regulation of ABA metabolism.
FBN-1, a fibrillin-related protein, is required for resistance of the epidermis to mechanical deformation during C. elegans embryogenesis
Authors: Kelley Melissa , Yochem John , Krieg Michael , Calixto Andrea , Heiman Maxwell G , Kuzmanov Aleksandra , Meli Vijaykumar , Chalfie Martin , Goodman Miriam B , Shaham Shai , Frand Alison , Fay David S
Published: March 2015

During development, biomechanical forces contour the body and provide shape to internal organs. Using genetic and molecular approaches in combination with a FRET-based tension sensor, we characterized a pulling force exerted by the elongating pharynx (foregut) on the anterior epidermis during C. elegans embryogenesis. Resistance of the epidermis to this force and to actomyosin-based circumferential constricting forces is mediated by FBN-1, a ZP domain protein related to vertebrate fibrillins. fbn-1 was required specifically within the epidermis and FBN-1 was expressed in epidermal cells and secreted to the apical surface as a putative component of the embryonic sheath. Tiling array studies indicated that fbn-1 mRNA processing requires the conserved alternative splicing factor MEC-8/RBPMS. The conserved SYM-3/FAM102A and SYM-4/WDR44 proteins, which are linked to protein trafficking, function as additional components of this network. Our studies demonstrate the importance of the apical extracellular matrix in preventing mechanical deformation of the epidermis during development.
ADHD: Ten Ideas for School Success
Authors: Ramer Linda L. , Gordon Deborah H.
Published: March 2015

Every parent wants his or her child to succeed in school. It may seem to take a Herculean effort on the part of the parents, but it is the parents who can make the difference between success and failure for a child with ADHD. In this article, we'll give you a “top 10 list” of ways you can help your child succeed in school. Parents don't have to be superhuman and perfectly consistent for these suggestions to work, but doing your best to follow them, especially working with your child's teachers as team members, will help your child succeed academically.
Deformation and seismicity near Sabancaya volcano, southern Peru, from 2002 to 2015
Authors: Jay Jennifer A. , Delgado Francisco J. , Torres José Luis , Pritchard Matthew E. , Macedo Orlando , Aguilar Victor
Published: March 2015

We use interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) and local seismic data to investigate the cause of earthquake sequences near Sabancaya volcano in southern Peru from 2002 to 2014, with a particular focus on events leading up to the August 2014 phreatic eruption. InSAR‐observed deformation associated with earthquake swarms in late 2002, February 2013, and July 2013 is modeled by fault slip, with no need for magmatic sources to explain the deformation. The majority of the seismicity is an expression of the regional tectonic system, which is characterized by E‐W trending normal faults, but a link to the magmatic system is possible. The Mw 5.9 earthquake on 17 July 2013 occurred on a previously unmapped normal fault that continued to deform in the months following the earthquake. An increase in long period and hybrid seismicity and changes in fumarolic emissions in 2013–2014 culminating in the August 2014 eruption indicates the involvement of both tectonic and magmatic systems.