bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Function of Remote Sensing in Support of Environmental Policy
Authors: De Leeuw Jan , Georgiadou Yola , Kerle Norman , De Gier Alfred , Inoue Yoshio , Ferwerda Jelle , Smies Maarten , Narantuya Davaa
Published: July 2010

Limited awareness of environmental remote sensing’s potential ability to support environmental policy development constrains the technology’s utilization. This paper reviews the potential of earth observation from the perspective of environmental policy. A literature review of “remote sensing and policy” revealed that while the number of publications in this field increased almost twice as rapidly as that of remote sensing literature as a whole (15.3 versus 8.8% yr−1), there is apparently little academic interest in the societal contribution of environmental remote sensing. This is because none of the more than 300 peer reviewed papers described actual policy support. This paper describes and discusses the potential, actual support, and limitations of earth observation with respect to supporting the various stages of environmental policy development. Examples are given of the use of remote sensing in problem identification and policy formulation, policy implementation, and policy control and evaluation. While initially, remote sensing contributed primarily to the identification of environmental problems and policy implementation, more recently, interest expanded to applications in policy control and evaluation. The paper concludes that the potential of earth observation to control and evaluate, and thus assess the efficiency and effectiveness of policy, offers the possibility of strengthening governance.
Primary Prevention of First-Ever Stroke in Primary Health Care: A Clinical Practice Study Based on Medical Register Data in Sweden
Authors: Skånér Ylva , Nilsson Gunnar H. , Krakau Ingvar , Hassler Ejda , Sundquist Kristina
Published: July 2010

Background. The aim of this study was to investigate whether established risk factors for stroke in patients admitted to health care for first-ever stroke had been detected and treated in primary health care.Methods. In a retrospective study in Nacka municipality, Stockholm County, Sweden, with about 70 000 inhabitants, we included all men and women admitted to health care due to first-ever stroke between October 1999 and March 2001. Data on 187 such patients, with a mean age of 75 years, were obtained from medical registers. Main outcome measures were detection and treatment of risk factors for stroke including hypertension, diabetes, atrial fibrillation, smoking, alcohol abuse, and overweight/obesity.Results. In a majority of patients seen in primary health care with hypertension and diabetes, those risk factors were detected and treated (75.6% and 75.0%, resp.). Fewer patients with atrial fibrillation received treatment (60.9%). Treatment of lifestyle factors was difficult to assess because of lack of data in the medical records.Conclusions. Primary prevention of stroke in primary health care needs to be improved, especially when atrial fibrillation and lifestyle-related risk factors are present. Health policies need to target not only the public, but also general practitioners and other health care professionals.
Review: Feed intake, milk production and milk composition of dairy cows fed flaxseed
Authors: Petit H V
Published: July 2010

Flaxseed contains approximately 55% of total fatty acids of the oil as ?-linolenic acid and is rich in lignans, which are strong antioxidants. Diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants are known to have beneficial effects on human health such as a decrease in the incidence of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, and arthritis. Flaxseed could then be an interesting natural feed to consider for changing milk composition. Cyanogenic glycosides (linustatin and neolinustatin) are present in flaxseed, but the concentration of hydrocyanic acid is very low in milk and ruminal fluid of cows fed flaxseed products. In general, feeding up to 15% of the total dry matter as whole flaxseed has a limited effect on dry matter intake. Heat treatments such as micronization and extrusion have no effect on dry matter intake and the effect of formaldehyde treatment on feed intake is unclear. The effects of flaxseed supplementation on milk production of dairy cows in the early stage of lactation have been neutral. Diet supplementation with whole flaxseed has had no effect on milk yield and composition of dairy cows in the mid or late stages of lactation. Physical processing of flaxseed increased milk production although heat treatment did not. Results on the effect of flaxseed processing on overall milk fat concentration have been controversial, but heat and formaldehyde treatments had no effect. Flaxseed supplementation had no effect on milk fat and protein concentrations, and processing of flaxseed had little effect. The extent of change in the concentration of fatty acids in milk is generally proportional to the level of inclusion of flaxseed in the diet. In conclusion, feeding flaxseed does not affect milk production or composition in the large majority of studies, but its long-term effects on health of cows and productivity still need to be determined.Key words: Review, flax, dairy
Adjusting roller settings based on kernel size increased ruminal starch digestibility of dry-rolled barley grain in cattle
Authors: Ahmad M. , Gibb D J , McAllister T A , Yang W Z , Helm J. , Zijlstra R T , Oba M.
Published: July 2010

Barley grain samples were dry-rolled using two different methods; multiple roller settings (MRS) vs. single roller setting (SRS). In the MRS method, samples were first separated through 4-, 6-, and 7-mm sieves and then dry-rolled with roller gap settings of 1.000, 1.194, and 1.487 mm, respectively. In the SRS method, samples were dry-rolled using a single roller gap setting of 1.194 mm. The MRS method increased in situ rate of starch disappearance (18.6 vs. 11.9% h-1; P < 0.01) compared with the SRS method. Screening to specific kernel sizes and adjusting roller settings accordingly could enhance the starch utilization of barley grain by ruminants.
Modeling leaf appearance rate for Canada Western Red Spring wheat cultivars
Authors: Wang H. , Cutforth H. , DePauw R M , McCaig T. , McLeod G. , Brandt K. , Qin X.
Published: July 2010

The rate of leaf appearance [LAR (d-1)] was observed for two older (Marquis and Neepawa) and two newer (AC Barrie and AC Elsa) Canada Western Red Spring (CWRS) wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivars grown in a semiarid environment on the Canadian prairies for four years. Although the newer cultivars significantly increased yield LAR did not change when compared with the older cultivars. A simulation model developed by Jame et al. (1998a), and using coefficients for Neepawa determined from a previous study adequately predicted LAR for all four cultivars.Key words: Wheat, leaf appearance rate, temperature, daylength, model
Natural enrichment of selenium in Saskatchewan field peas (Pisum sativum L.).
Authors: Thavarajah D. , Warkentin T. , Vandenberg A.
Published: July 2010

Pulses are important dietary sources of selenium (Se). Supplying needed Se through widely used foods such as pulses and cereals could increase dietary Se intake. We analyzed the total Se concentration of 17 field pea (Pisum sativum L.) cultivars grown at six locations for 2 yr in Saskatchewan. A significant effect of location was identified, with the highest Se concentration in pea seeds grown in the Saskatoon region and the lowest concentration in the Melfort region. The effect of crop year was not significant. Significant genotypic differences in total Se concentration among the 17 field pea cultivars were not observed in the combined analysis. Total Se concentrations over six locations × 2 yr ranged from 373 to 519 µg kg-1, corresponding to 68-94% of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) for adults based on a 100 g serving of dry field peas. Saskatchewan soils are derived from marine shale and are rich in Se, and pulses grown in Saskatchewan have the potential to provide an excellent natural source of this element. Key words: Selenium, field pea, biofortification
Plant production after defoliation of native, Northern Mixed Prairie on hummocky terrain in Saskatchewan
Authors: Pantel A. , Romo J T , Bai Y.
Published: July 2010

Resting plants after grazing is central to sustaining potential plant production. Growth of graminoids and forbs was determined for 3 yr after a single defoliation to 7.5 cm in May, June, July, August, September, October, November, or April on five different landform elements in the Northern Mixed Prairie. Green standing crop and cumulative green standing crop of forbs, graminoids, and their total varied with months of defoliation, landform elements, and years after defoliation. Green standing crop and cumulative green standing crop of forbs, graminoids, and their total was less than the control (P ≤ 0.05) on at least one of five landform elements until the second year after defoliation. This pattern of growth suggests the need to defer grazing for at least 1 yr after use to allow plants to regain their production potential. Plants defoliated early in the growing season recovered their production sooner or at the same time as those defoliated later in the growing season or when dormant. Generalizations that spring or early summer defoliation of native range reduces production and late summer or dormant season grazing has no effect on production warrants reconsideration where adequate rest is provided following a short period of grazing.Key words: Landform, landscape, primary production, rangeland, regrowth, standing crop
Groat proportion in oats as measured by different methods: Analysis of oats resistant to dehulling and sources of error in mechanical dehulling
Authors: Doehlert D C , McMullen M S , Riveland N R
Published: July 2010

Groat proportion is the groat yield from an oat dehulling process. We compared hand, impact and compressed-air dehulling to measure groat proportion, and evaluated sources of error. Hand dehulling was the simplest and most accurate method, because all groats and hulls can be accounted for. Mechanical methods dehulled most, but not all, oat kernels. Failure to account for oats resistant to dehulling in calculations resulted in gross errors. Oats resistant to impact dehulling did not differ in groat proportion from the general population, but differed in many physical properties. Hull structure may account the most for their resistance to dehulling. Mechanically dehulled oats consistently yielded lower groat proportions than those from hand dehulling. Since the difference cannot be attributed to oats resistant to dehulling, groats must be lost during the aspiration process, common to all mechanical methods. Uniform aspiration protocols should provide a uniform error. All groat proportion values obtained here were highly correlated among themselves, except when values were not corrected for oats resistant to dehulling. A theoretical groat proportion calculated from the ratio of the mean groat mass (collected by any means available) and the mean kernel mass yielded a groat proportion value that did not differ significantly from the hand dehulling value.Key words: Oat milling, groat proportion, oat dehulling
Efficiency of RAPD and ISSR markers in assessing genetic diversity and relationships in black gram (Vigna mungo L. Hepper) vari
Authors: Karuppanapandian T. , Wang H W , Karuppudurai T. , Rajendhran J. , Kwon M. , Jang C S , Kim S. -H. , Manoharan K , Kim W
Published: July 2010

The DNA fingerprinting methodologies, random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) and inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR), were used to estimate genetic diversity and relationships among 20 black gram (Vigna mungo L. Hepper) varieties. Thirty selected RAPD primers amplified 255 bands, 168 of which were polymorphic (66.5%). On average, these primers produced 8.5 bands, 5.6 of which were polymorphic. Polymorphic band number varied from 2 (A-05) to 10 (OPA-02), with sizes ranging from 100 to 2550 bp. Twenty-four selected ISSR primers produced 238 amplified products, 184 of which were polymorphic (77.8%). On average, these primers generated 9.8 bands, with 7.7 polymorphic bands ranging in number from 4 (ISSR-13) to 11 (ISSR-03), and size from 100-2650 bp. Genetic relationships were estimated using similarity coefficient (Jaccard’s) values between different accession pairs; these varied from 30.7 to 85.0 for RAPD, and from 37.2 to 88.4 with ISSR. UPGMA analysis indicated that the varieties ranged in similarity from 0.50 to 1.00 (mean of 0.75) for RAPD, and from 0.47 to 1.00 (mean of 0.76) with ISSR. Cluster analysis of RAPD and ISSR results identified three clusters with significant bootstrap values, which revealed greater homology between the varieties. Principal coordinates analysis also supported this conclusion. Among the black gram varieties, WBU-108 and RBU-38 were highly divergent, whereas LBG-648 and LBG-623 were genetically similar. The markers generated by RAPD and ISSR assays can provide practical information for the management of genetic resources and these results will also provide useful information for the molecular classification and breeding of new black gram varieties.Key words: Black gram, cluster analysis, genetic diversity, ISSR, molecular markers, RAPD
OAC Dublin common bean
Authors: Smith T H , Michaels T E , Pauls K P
Published: July 2010

OAC Dublin (CFIA registration no. 6599) is an indeterminate bush white bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) cultivar intended for use in areas with greater than 2600 crop heat units (CHU). It has excellent yield potential in either wide or narrow row production. Its seed has acceptable cooking and canning quality.Key words: Phaseolus vulgaris L., white bean, common bean, cultivar description
Greenhouse Gas Emissions Calculator for Grain and Biofuel Farming Systems
Authors: McSwiney Claire P. , Bohm Sven , Grace Peter R. , Robertson G. Philip
Published: July 2010

Opportunities for farmers to participate in greenhouse gas (GHG) credit markets require that growers, students, extension educators, offset aggregators, and other stakeholders understand the impact of agricultural practices on GHG emissions. The Farming Systems Greenhouse Gas Emissions Calculator, a web‐based tool linked to the SOCRATES soil carbon process model, provides a simple introduction to the concepts and magnitudes of gas emissions associated with crop management. Users choose a county of interest on an introductory screen and are taken to the input/output window, where they choose crops, yields, tillage practices, or nitrogen fertilizer rates. Default values are provided based on convention and county averages. Outputs include major contributors of greenhouse gases in field crops: soil carbon change, nitrous oxide (N2O) emission, fuel use, and fertilizer. We contrast conventional tillage and no‐till in a corn–soybean–wheat (Zea mays L.–Glycine max (L.) Merr.–Triticum aestivum L.) rotation and compare continuous corn fertilized at 101 and 134 kg N ha−1 yr−1. In corn years, N2O was the dominant GHG, due to high fertilizer requirements for corn. No‐till management reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 50% due to net soil carbon storage. Continuous corn fertilized at 101 kg N ha−1 yr−1 emitted 1.25 Mg CO2 equivalents ha−1 yr−1 compared with 1.42 Mg CO2 equivalents ha−1 yr−1 at 134 kg N ha−1 yr−1, providing a 12% GHG savings. The calculator demonstrates how cropping systems and management choices affect greenhouse gas emissions in field crops.
Consistency and Construct Validity of the Activity Card Sort (Modified) in Measuring Activity Resumption After Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Lyons Kathleen Doyle , Li Zhongze , Tosteson Tor D. , Meehan Kenneth , Ahles Tim A.
Published: July 2010

OBJECTIVE. We assessed the psychometrics of a self-administered survey modification of the Activity Card Sort (modified; ACSm) when used to track activity resumption after stem cell transplantation (SCT).

METHOD. Thirty-six participants completed the ACSm for a descriptive pilot study of recovery after SCT. Reliability was assessed by determining the longitudinal consistency of participants’ designation of an activity as never done versus done previously and by calculating internal consistency. Construct validity was assessed by correlating the ACSm scores with measures of quality of life, performance status, and perceived cognitive impairment.

RESULTS. Participants gave consistent designations for 72% of items. Internal consistency of the total score was α > 0.86 at all assessments. The ACSm scores were correlated with quality of life (r = 0.51, p = .0019), functional well-being (r = 0.59, p = .0002), and performance status (r = 0.42, p = 0.011) and not associated with cognitive impairment (r = .22, p = .19).

CONCLUSION. The ACSm demonstrated provisional evidence of reliability, internal consistency, and construct validity.
Description of Dementia Caregiver Uplifts and Implications for Occupational Therapy
Authors: Donovan Mary Lou , Corcoran Mary A.
Published: July 2010

OBJECTIVE. Most occupational therapy interventions for caregivers are designed to reduce negative consequences of caregiving by building skills to manage problem behaviors and dependence. However, therapists may be missing an opportunity to provide interventions that directly help caregivers to emphasize and act on positive aspects of care. We describe care-related thinking and action processes of long-term caregivers who report positive effects related to caring for a spouse with dementia.

METHOD. We analyzed data from 15 experienced and uplifted (reporting improved well-being from caregiving) spouse caregivers to describe how they think about and carry out their care duties.

RESULTS. We describe two primary themes of caregiver thinking and action: (1) engaging in positive behaviors and (2) making adjustments in attitudes.

CONCLUSION. These findings support a new focus for occupational therapy caregiver intervention that promotes a positive approach to thinking about and enacting care tasks.
Measurement of atmospheric nitrous acid at Bodgett Forest during BEARPEX2007
Authors: Ren X. , Gao H. , Zhou X. , Crounse J. D. , Wennberg P. O. , Browne E. C. , LaFranchi B. W. , Cohen R. C. , McKay M. , Goldstein A. H. , Mao J.
Published: July 2010

Abstract. Nitrous acid (HONO) is an important precursor of the hydroxyl radical (OH) in the lower troposphere. Understanding HONO chemistry, particularly its sources and contribution to HOx (=OH+HO2) production, is very important for understanding atmospheric oxidation processes. A highly sensitive instrument for detecting atmospheric HONO based on wet chemistry followed by liquid waveguide long path absorption photometry was deployed in the Biosphere Effects on Aerosols and Photochemistry Experiment (BEARPEX) at Blodgett Forest, California in late summer 2007. The median diurnal variation shows minimum HONO levels of about 20–30 pptv during the day and maximum levels of about 60–70 pptv at night, a diurnal pattern quite different from the results at various other forested sites. Measured HONO/NO2 ratios for a 24-h period ranged from 0.05 to 0.13 with a mean ratio of 0.07. Speciation of reactive nitrogen compounds (NOy) indicates that HONO accounted for only ~3% of total NOy. However, due to the fast HONO loss through photolysis, a strong HONO source (1.59 ppbv day−1) existed in this environment in order to sustain the observed HONO levels, indicating the significant role of HONO in NOy cycling. The wet chemistry HONO measurements were compared to the HONO measurements made with a Chemical Ionization Mass Spectrometer (CIMS) over a three-day period. Good agreement was obtained between the measurements from the two different techniques. Using the expansive suite of photochemical and meteorological measurements, the contribution of HONO photolysis to HOx budget was calculated to be relatively small (6%) compared to results from other forested sites. The lower HONO mixing ratio and thus its smaller contribution to HOx production are attributed to the unique meteorological conditions and low acid precipitation at Blodgett Forest. Further studies of HONO in this kind of environment are needed to test this hypothesis and to improve our understanding of atmospheric oxidation and nitrogen budget.
Reconciliation of measurements of hygroscopic growth and critical supersaturation of aerosol particles in Southwest Germany
Authors: Irwin M. , Good N. , Crosier J. , Choularton T. W. , McFiggans G.
Published: July 2010

Abstract. Aerosol physical, chemical and hygroscopic properties were measured in a range of airmasses during COPS (Convective and Orographically-induced Precipitation Study) ground-based in June and July of 2007 at the Hornisgrinde mountain site in the Black Forest, Southwest Germany. Hygroscopic growth factors at 86% relative humidity were measured and critical supersaturation simultaneously derived for particles of dry diameters 27 to 217 nm, both properties exhibiting substantial variability with time and with particle size. Variability in the measurements of hygroscopic growth factor and critical supersaturation for particles of similar sizes indicates significant compositional impact on particle water affinity. Critical supersaturation prediction using a single parameter hygroscopicity approximation derived from measured HTDMA mean growth factors deviate, beyond measurement uncertainties, from critical supersaturations derived from CCN measurements. These led to differences averaging around 35% in potential cloud droplet number concentration (CDNC) for the most reliable measurements depending on averaging methodology, often very much larger for individual time periods. This indicates aspects of water uptake behaviour unresolved in this experiment by the single parameter representation which, depending on its origin, may have important consequences on its generalised use.
Marine hypoxia/anoxia as a source of CH4 and N2O
Authors: Naqvi S. W. A. , Bange H. W. , Farías L. , Monteiro P. M. S. , Scranton M. I. , Zhang J.
Published: July 2010

Abstract. We review here the available information on methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O) from major marine, mostly coastal, oxygen (O2)-deficient zones formed both naturally and as a result of human activities (mainly eutrophication). Concentrations of both gases in subsurface waters are affected by ambient O2 levels to varying degrees. Organic matter supply to seafloor appears to be the primary factor controlling CH4 production in sediments and its supply to (and concentration in) overlying waters, with bottom-water O2-deficiency exerting only a modulating effect. High (micromolar level) CH4 accumulation occurs in anoxic (sulphidic) waters of silled basins, such as the Black Sea and Cariaco Basin, and over the highly productive Namibian shelf. In other regions experiencing various degrees of O2-deficiency (hypoxia to anoxia), CH4 concentrations vary from a few to hundreds of nanomolar levels. Since coastal O2-deficient zones are generally very productive and are sometimes located close to river mouths and submarine hydrocarbon seeps, it is difficult to differentiate any O2-deficiency-induced enhancement from in situ production of CH4 in the water column and its inputs through freshwater runoff or seepage from sediments. While the role of bottom-water O2-deficiency in CH4 formation appears to be secondary, even when CH4 accumulates in O2-deficient subsurface waters, methanotrophic activity severely restricts its diffusive efflux to the atmosphere. As a result, an intensification or expansion of coastal O2-deficient zones will probably not drastically change the present status where emission from the ocean as a whole forms an insignificant term in the atmospheric CH4 budget. The situation is different for N2O, the production of which is greatly enhanced in low-O2 waters, and although it is lost through denitrification in most suboxic and anoxic environments, the peripheries of such environments offer most suitable conditions for its production, with the exception of enclosed anoxic basins. Most O2-deficient systems serve as strong net sources of N2O to the atmosphere. This is especially true for coastal upwelling regions with shallow O2-deficient zones where a dramatic increase in N2O production often occurs in rapidly denitrifying waters. Nitrous oxide emissions from these zones are globally significant, and so their ongoing intensification and expansion is likely to lead to a significant increase in N2O emission from the ocean. However, a meaningful quantitative prediction of this increase is not possible at present because of continuing uncertainties concerning the formative pathways to N2O as well as insufficient data from key coastal regions.
Uncertainty of the CO2 threshold for melting a hard Snowball Earth
Authors: Hu Y. , Yang J.
Published: July 2010

Abstract. One of the critical issues of the Snowball Earth hypothesis is how high level of CO2 is required for triggering the deglaciation. Using Community Atmospheric Model version 3 (CAM3), we study the problem for the CO2 threshold. Our simulations show large differences from previous results (Pierrehumbert, 2004, 2005). At 0.2 bars of CO2, the January maximum near-surface temperature is about 268 K, about 13 K higher than that in Pierrehumbert (2004, 2005), but lower than the value of 270 K for 0.1 bar of CO2 in Le Hir et al. (2007). It is found that the diversity of simulation results is mainly due to model sensitivity of greenhouse effect and longwave cloud forcing to increasing CO2. At 0.2 bar of CO2, CAM3 yields 117 Wm −2 of clear-sky greenhouse effect and 32 Wm−2 of longwave cloud forcing, versus only about 77 Wm−2 and 10.5 Wm−2 in Pierrehumbert (2004, 2005), respectively. CAM3 has comparable clear-sky greenhouse effect to that in Le Hir et al. (2007), but lower longwave cloud forcing. CAM3 also produces much stronger Hadley cells than in Pierrehumbert (2005).
Modeling impacts of climate and land use changes on catchment hydrology: Meki River, Ethiopia
Authors: Legesse D. , Abiye T. A. , Vallet-Coulomb C.
Published: July 2010

Abstract. Impacts of climate variability and land use change on catchment runoff of the Meki River basin were assessed using hydrological modeling. The Modular Modeling System (MMS) was used to build a suitable Precipitation Runoff Modeling System (PRMS) for the study area, perform sensitivity analysis, model calibration and validation, and scenario analysis. The model calibration and validation periods in this study were divided into three. The calibration period was a five years period (1981–1986). The validation period was divided into two: validation 1 (1986–1991) and validation 2 (1996–2002). Model performance was evaluated by using joint plots of daily and monthly observed and simulated runoff hydrographs and the Nash-Sutcliffe coefficient of efficiency to statistically analyze model performance in simulating daily and monthly runoff. Daily observed and simulated hydrographs showed a reasonable agreement for both calibration and validation periods. The model coefficients of efficiency were 0.71 for the calibration period and 0.69 and 0.66 for validation period 1 and 2, respectively. Simulated runoff was generally greater than the observed runoff values for the calibration and validation periods. The model was also limited in its capability of simulating complex hydrograph shapes and peak discharge values. However, the model performed well in simulating dry season flows for both validation and calibration periods. A 20% of change in rainfall and 1.5 °C increase in temperature was considered for climatic scenarios and one land use change scenario were used to assess the likely impacts of these changes on the runoff of the Meki River. The results of the scenario analysis showed that the basin is more sensitive to increase in rainfall (+80% for +20%) than to a decrease (−62% for −20%). Increase in temperature has also a significant impact both on the potential evapotranspiration and stream flow of the basin. Increase by 1.5 °C in temperature resulted in increase in potential evapotranspiration (6.02%) and decrease in stream flow (13%). The proposed land use scenario of converting areas between 2000 to 3000 m a.s.l. to woodland also resulted in a significant decrease in stream flow (11.8%) and increase in evapotranspiration (2.2%) of the study area.
Permafrost and surface energy balance of a polygonal tundra site in northern Siberia – Part 1: Spring to fall
Authors: Langer M. , Westermann S. , Muster S. , Piel K. , Boike J.
Published: July 2010

Abstract. Permafrost thawing is essentially determined by the surface energy balance, which potentially triggers the activation of a massive carbon source, if previously frozen organic soils are exposed to microbial decomposition. In this article, we present the first part of a comprehensive annual surface energy balance study performed at a polygonal tundra landscape in northeast Siberia, realized between spring 2007 and winter 2009. This part of the study focuses on the half year period from April to September 2007–2008, during which the surface energy balance is obtained from independent measurements of the radiation budget, the turbulent heat fluxes and the ground heat flux at several sites. The short-wave radiation is the dominant factor in the surface energy balance during the entire observation period. About 50% of the available net radiation is consumed by latent heat flux, while the sensible and the ground heat flux are both on the order of 20 to 30%. The ground heat flux is mainly consumed by active layer thawing, where 60% of soil energy storage are attributed to. The remainder is used for soil warming down to a depth of 15 m. The controlling factors for the surface energy partitioning are in particular the snow cover, the cloud cover and the soil temperature gradient. Significant surface temperature differences of the heterogeneous landscape indicate spatial variabilities of sensible and latent heat fluxes, which are verified by measurements at different locations. However, differences in the partition between sensible and latent heat flux for the different sites only exist during conditions of high radiative forcing, which only occur occasionally.
Rationalizing the equilibration and cooling stages of cryopreservation: The effect of cell size distribution
Authors: Fadda S. , Cincotti A. , Cao G.
Published: July 2010

A novel model able to quantitatively describe intracellular ice formation (IIF) as a function of temperature in a cell population characterized by a size distribution is proposed for the case when a permeant cryoprotectant agent (CPA) is present. As such, the model represents the ideal extension of the one recently proposed by the authors for interpreting the behavior of a size‐distributed population of cells during cryopreservation without CPA. To resemble the experimental procedure actually adopted, the former model is coherently modified for the simulation of the initial equilibration stage (i.e., a one‐step CPA permeation kinetics into cells initially under isotonic conditions to be suspended in a water/salt/CPA solution at ambient temperature) and of the subsequent cooling stage at constant rate down to −60°C. Specifically, the size distribution dynamics of a cell population in response to water osmosis, CPA permeation, and IIF is simulated by means of a suitable population balance approach. Water and CPA intracellular transport equations based on the classical Kedem and Katchalsky formalism are coupled to the quantitative description of nucleation and diffusion‐limited growth of ice crystals in the framework of a one‐dimensional population balance equation. The driving forces of all the physico‐chemical phenomena involved are evaluated by taking into account the relevant ternary phase diagram, whereas the viscosity of the cytoplasm solution is properly accounted as a function of the salt and CPA concentrations. After a reasoned choice of the values of model parameters, the behavior of isolated rat hepatocytes suspended in a water/sodium‐chloride/glycerol solution is simulated and analyzed at different, practicable (i.e., low) constant cooling rates and CPA equilibration concentrations. It is confirmed that differently sized cells in a single population exhibit different IIF temperatures under the same operative conditions even in the presence of CPA. Correspondingly, the probability of IIF results to be a function of the initial size distribution of the cell population. Depending on the specific operative conditions adopted, the size distribution and the osmotic properties of the cell lineage at hand, IIF at −60°C may be lethal for a fraction of the cell population (i.e., larger size classes), or it may not reach a dangerous level for the intermediate size class cells, while it will not even take place for the smaller ones. Finally, even if no comparison with experimental data is provided, an original and physically sound explanation for several, well‐known experimental evidences, which appeared in a number of articles available in the literature of cell cryopreservation with CPA, is comprehensively given. © 2010 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2011
The dynamics of single air bubbles and alcohol drops in sunflower oil at various temperatures
Authors: Duangsuwan W. , Tuzun U. , Sermon P.A.
Published: July 2010

Steady rises of a single air bubble, a methanol drop, and an ethanol drop in a vertical glass column of refined sunflower oil at temperatures of 25, 30, 40, and 50°C are investigated experimentally using photography. The Reynolds numbers obtained are 0.07–16, 0.02–13.43, and 0.017–11.18 for the air bubbles, methanol drops, and ethanol drops, respectively. Results for terminal velocity and drag coefficient are compared with the selected existing correlations for bubble and drop motions in immiscible liquids. Correlations by Rodrigue show good agreement for various bubble sizes and system temperatures. Experimental drag coefficients of methanol and ethanol drops show a systematic deviation from the Oliver and Chung and the Darton and Harrison correlations, respectively. Considering the effect of dissolution of alcohol in vegetable oil, which varies with temperature, on the drop dynamics, semiempirical correction factors are applied to the last two correlations to fit the experimental results. © 2010 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2011
Occupational injuries to oregon workers 24 years and younger: An analysis of workers' compensation claims, 2000–2007
Authors: Walters Jaime K. , A. Christensen Kari , K. Green Mandy , E. Karam Lauren , D. Kincl Laurel
Published: July 2010

Background

Occupational injuries to adolescents and young adults are a known public health problem. We sought to describe and estimate rates of occupational injuries to workers younger than 25 years of age in Oregon during an 8‐year period.

Methods

Oregon workers' compensation disabling claims data (n = 23,325) and one commercial insurance carrier's non‐disabling claims data (n = 16,153) were analyzed. Total employment from the Local Employment Dynamics of the U.S. Census Bureau and the Oregon Labor Market Information System was used as a denominator for rates.

Results

Injuries were more frequent among 22–24 year olds and among males, though females accounted for a higher proportion of claims in the youngest age group. The most common injury type was a sprain or strain, but lacerations and burns were more frequently reported in the 14–18 year olds. When non‐disabling claims were included, the rate of injury for 14–18 year olds doubled. The overall rate of injury was 122.7/10,000 workers, but was higher in the construction, manufacturing, and transportation sectors, and in the agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting sector for older teens and young adults.

Conclusions

Young workers continue to be at risk for occupational injuries. Our results show that specific interventions may be needed for older teen and young adult workers to reduce their rate of injury. Am. J. Ind. Med. 53:984–994, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The use of new world primates for biomedical research: an overview of the last four decades
Authors: Torres Laila Brito , Silva Araujo Bruno Henrique , Gomes de Castro Paulo Henrique , Romero Cabral Francisco , Sarges Marruaz Klena , Silva Araujo Michelle , Gomes da Silva Sergio , Muniz José Augusto Pereira Carneiro , Cavalheiro Esper Abrão
Published: July 2010

Animal experimentation contributes significantly to the progression of science. Nonhuman primates play a particularly important role in biomedical research not only because of their anatomical, physiological, biochemical, and behavioral similarities with humans but also because of their close phylogenetic affinities. In order to investigate the use of New World primates (NWP) in biomedical research over the last four decades (1966–2005), we performed a quantitative study of the literature listed in bibliographic databases from the Health Sciences. The survey was performed for each genus of NWP that has been bred in the National Center of Primates in Brazil. The number of articles published was determined for each genus and sorted according to the country from which the studies originated and the general scientific field. The data obtained suggests that Brazil is a leader in generating knowledge with NWP models for translational medicine. Am. J. Primatol. 72:1055–1061, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Amyloidogenic Protein–Membrane Interactions: Mechanistic Insight from Model Systems
Authors: Butterfield Sara M. , Lashuel Hilal A.
Published: July 2010

The toxicity of amyloid‐forming proteins is correlated with their interactions with cell membranes. Binding events between amyloidogenic proteins and membranes result in mutally disruptive structural perturbations, which are associated with toxicity. Membrane surfaces promote the conversion of amyloid‐forming proteins into toxic aggregates, and amyloidogenic proteins, in turn, compromise the structural integrity of the cell membrane. Recent studies with artificial model membranes have highlighted the striking resemblance of the mechanisms of membrane permeabilization of amyloid‐forming proteins to those of pore‐forming toxins and antimicrobial peptides.
Nanoparticle effects on the morphology and mechanical properties of polypropylene spunbond webs
Authors: Hegde Raghavendra R. , Bhat Gajanan S.
Published: July 2010

We report morphology and mechanical properties of natural nanoclay incorporated spunbond polypropylene composite webs. Nanocomposite spunbond webs were produced with up to 5 wt % natural nanoclay additives on Reicofil®‐2 spunbond line. Influence of nanoclay on the resin rheological properties, processibility, and mechanical properties of webs were studied. Wide angle X‐ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy analysis were used to investigate the nanocomposite morphology. Intercalated and flocculated morphology was observed for all the concentrates and for all the spunbond fiber webs. The microstructure and polymer morphology in the presence of additives was characterized using a polarized optical microscope. At higher percentage, excess clay platelets were excluded out of the spherulite boundaries. About 20–30% increase in tear strength was observed for webs with up to 2 wt % nanoclay additives. Compared with the control polypropylene spunbond web, nanoclay reinforced samples showed better dimensional stability. Different failure mode was observed for spunbond webs with additives. Spunbond webs with even as low as 1 wt % clay retain their morphology and integrity in bond point after thermal bonding. Nanoclay incorporated spunbond webs showed significant improvements in the stiffness. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Removal of cadmium ions from synthetic aqueous solutions with a novel nanosulfonated poly(glycidyl methacrylate) cation exchanger: Kinetic and equilibrium studies
Authors: Mohy‐Eldin M. S. , Elkady M. F. , Abu‐Saied M. A. , Rahman A. M. Abdel , Soliman E. A. , Elzatahry A. A. , Youssef M. E.
Published: July 2010

A fundamental investigation of the removal of cadmium ions from aqueous solutions by synthesized sulfonated poly(glycidyl methacrylate) (SPGMA) was conducted under batch conditions. The kinetic and equilibrium results obtained for cadmium sorption with different initial cadmium concentrations onto synthesized SPGMA were analyzed. Kinetic modeling analysis with four different types of kinetic sorption models (pseudo‐first‐order, pseudo‐second‐order, simple Elovich, and intraparticle diffusion rate models) was applied to simulate the cadmium‐sorption data. The analysis of the kinetic data indicated that the sorption was a second‐order process and was pore‐diffusion‐controlled. An ion‐exchange mechanism may have existed in the cadmium‐sorption process with the synthesized SPGMA. The cadmium uptake by SPGMA was quantitatively evaluated with equilibrium sorption isotherms. To describe the isotherms mathematically, the experimental data of the removal equilibrium were correlated with the Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, and Dubinin–Radushkevich (D–R) isotherm models, and the applicability of these isotherm equations to the sorption systems was compared on the basis of the correlation coefficients. The applicability of the equilibrium isotherm models followed this order: Freundlich > Langmuir > Temkin > D–R. The maximum sorption capacity, determined from the Langmuir isotherm, was 555.55 mg/g at 25°C. Thermodynamic parameters, including changes in the enthalpy, Gibbs free energy, and entropy, were calculated. Positive values for the change in enthalpy and negative values for the change in the Gibbs free energy showed the endothermic and spontaneous nature of sorption, respectively. The relatively small value of the activation energy (32.12 kJ/mol) confirmed that the cadmium‐sorption process was diffusion‐controlled. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
A spatial queuing approach to optimize coordinated signal settings to obviate gridlock in adjacent work zones
Authors: Wong C.K. , Wong S.C. , Lo Hong K.
Published: July 2010

Gridlock is defined when traffic comes to a complete halt inducing huge delays. If a work zone on a two‐lane two‐way highway is set up, in which one of the traffic lanes is closed for maintenance road works, the remaining lane has to be controlled to serve the two‐way traffic alternatively. The study objective is to optimize the traffic signal controls across two closely spaced work zones to prevent a gridlock, which can occur easily if upstream and downstream signals are not well coordinated. When vehicle queues build up in the middle sections between two work zones and further expand to occupy the single available lanes in both directions, the two‐way traffic is then blocked and no vehicle can leave from the queues generating a gridlock. To address this problem, spatial queues are important parameters that must be explicitly analyzed. The cell transmission model, which is known to be a robust mathematical tool for the modeling of queue dynamics, is adopted in this study. A signal cell is used to represent each traffic signal control, the exit flow capacity of which is defined in accordance with the signal plan. A set of linear constraints is established to relate all of the model parameters and variables. The objective function is taken as the total number of vehicles in the critical section between the two work zones. The minimization of this objective function can effectively obviate the occurrence of a gridlock. The optimization problem is formulated as a Binary‐Mixed‐Integer‐Linear‐Program that can be solved by the standard branch‐and‐bound technique. Numerical examples are given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed methodology. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
White matter integrity in Asperger syndrome: a preliminary diffusion tensor magnetic resonance imaging study in adults
Authors: Bloemen Oswald J.N. , Deeley Quinton , Sundram Fred , Daly Eileen M. , Barker Gareth J. , Jones Derek K. , van Amelsvoort Therese A.M.J. , Schmitz Nicole , Robertson Dene , Murphy Kieran C. , Murphy Declan G.M.
Published: July 2010

Background: Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD), including Asperger syndrome and autism, is a highly genetic neurodevelopmental disorder. There is a consensus that ASD has a biological basis, and it has been proposed that it is a “connectivity” disorder. Diffusion Tensor Magnetic Resonance Imaging (DT‐MRI) allows measurement of the microstructural integrity of white matter (a proxy measure of “connectivity”). However, nobody has investigated the microstructural integrity of whole brain white matter in people with Asperger syndrome. Methods: We measured the fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD) and radial diffusivity (RD) of white matter, using DT‐MRI, in 13 adults with Asperger syndrome and 13 controls. The groups did not differ significantly in overall intelligence and age. FA, MD and RD were assessed using whole brain voxel‐based techniques. Results: Adults with Asperger syndrome had a significantly lower FA than controls in 13 clusters. These were largely bilateral and included white matter in the internal capsule, frontal, temporal, parietal and occipital lobes, cingulum and corpus callosum. Conclusions: Adults with Asperger syndrome have widespread significant differences from controls in white matter microstructural integrity.
Strengthening parent well‐being at the work—family interface: A German trial on workplace Triple P
Authors: Hartung Doreen , Hahlweg Kurt
Published: July 2010

This study examines the efficacy of a parenting training (Workplace Triple P (WPTP)) especially designed for the needs of employed parents. The program aims to reduce stress at the work–parenting interface by targeting family risk and protective factors and assisting parents to manage competing work and family demands. Ninety‐seven part‐ and full‐time working parents (74 mothers and 23 fathers; intervention group: n = 42 parents; waitlist‐control group n = 55 parents) from multiple organizations and multiple occupations with children between 2 and 10 years were randomly assigned to an intervention and a waitlist‐control condition. After the training, parents from the intervention condition, compared to those from the waitlist‐control condition, reported a significant reduction in individual and work‐related stress. Additionally, they reported a significant reduction in dysfunctional parenting and significant higher levels of parental and occupational self‐efficacy. Within the intervention condition all effects were maintained at the 3‐ and 6‐month follow‐up examinations. The findings support the notion that WPTP promotes parental well‐being and reduces stress at the work–parenting interface. Given that strengthening parenting skills has the potential to strengthen work, strategies to implement WPTP in organizational resources and community‐based services are discussed. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Young people's views of their present and future selves in two deprived communities
Authors: Kloep M. , Hendry L.B. , Gardner C. , Seage C.H.
Published: July 2010

This study set out to explore the perceptions of young people from two deprived former mining communities in South Wales about their present and future selves. An opportunity sample of 11 teenagers was asked to describe a normal and an ideal day in their lives. Interview transcripts were submitted to a theory‐led analysis to gauge the components of young people's selves and their hopes and fears of the future. Findings indicated diversity in the young people's future selves. While some young people were able to construct positive future selves despite adversity, others perceived no resources for a positive future, particularly if they shouldered heavy caring responsibilities, or suffered a lack of respect and recognition. Findings demonstrate powerfully that general protective or risk factors do not simply determine young people's perceived developmental paths, but rather that factors from both micro‐ and macro‐systems work in unique combination for each individual in creating upward – or downward – developmental trajectories. Implications for practice and further research are discussed. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.