bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improvement of the solubility of rock phosphate by co-composting it with organic components
Authors: Korzeniowska Jolanta , Stanisławska-Glubiak Ewa , Hoffmann Józef , Górecka Helena , Jóźwiak Wiktor , Wiśniewska Grażyna
Published: January 2014

One possible way to improve the solubility of phosphate rock is by co-composting it with organic substances. Four variants of composts were made in a biomass composting bioreactor. Ground phosphate rock (GPR) and shredded barley straw, pine sawdust as well as beet pulp pellets were used as compost components. The four composts were different from one another in the type and amount of organic components. The composts were granulated in a pelleting press. Changes in the solubility of phosphorus were assessed via chemical analyses and P-recovery efficiency calculated from the data achieved in a pot experiment. Solubility of ground phosphate rock was increased resulting from co-composting with organic substances, which meant that bioavailability of phosphorus increased. All the tested composts were characterized by a higher ratio of ammonium citrate soluble phosphorus to total phosphorus than non-composted GPR. Co-composting GPR with all the tested organic components yielded better effects than composting it with straw alone. The four composts were characterized by a slow release of P, which justifies our expectation that they will produce residual effects in the years following their application.
A novel functional MgO ∙ SiO2/polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane hybrids as an active filler of polypropylene
Authors: Ambrożewicz Damian , Jakubowska Paulina , Kloziński Arkadiusz , Nowacka Magdalena , Dudziec Beata , Andrzejewska Ewa , Jesionowski Teofil , Marciniec Bogdan
Published: January 2014

New organic/inorganic hybrid fillers were obtained by mechanical modification of magnesium silicate with selected polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane and characterized afterwards. MgO ∙ SiO2 was precipitated in a water system. The effect of chemical modification of magnesium silicate surface on their physicochemical properties was determined. Functionalization was carried out with the use of different amount of (1-(3-hydroxypropyl)dimethylsiloxy- 3,5,7,9,11,13,15-hepta(isobutyl)pentacyclo-[9.5.1.13, 9.15, 15.17, 13]octasiloxane). The polypropylene composites of 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 wt.% modified by 10 weight parts by the mass of the filler were also produced. For the obtained polypropylene composites measurements of the tensile strength, Young’s modulus and elongation at break were performed
Investigation of the thermal protection ablative properties of thermosetting composites with powder fillers: the corundum Al2O3 and the Carbon Powder C
Authors: Kucharczyk Wojciech , Przybyłek Paweł , Opara Tadeusz A.
Published: January 2014

Phenol formaldehyde resins were filled with mixtures of corundum Al2O3 and carbon C powders to produce thermoprotective composites. The composites were treated with hot combustion gases to determinate the temperature profiles across rectangular samples of dimensions 10x25x35 mm. The carbonization of the thermosetting matrix was observed. It was qualified the qualitative and the quantitative effect of components on the ablation surface temperature, the back side temperature of specimen and the mass waste under intensive heat fl ow after 120 s of treatment with hot combustion gases. The composites with higher matrix content (more liquid resin and less adhesive resin) and with predominance of corundum Al2O3 over carbon powder C showed the best insulating properties.
New thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers based on sulfur-containing chain extenders
Authors: Kultys Anna , Puszka Andrzej
Published: January 2014

New thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers (TPUs) were synthesized by a one-step melt polyaddition from poly(oxytetramethylene) diol of M¯n = 2000 g/mol as the soft segment, 1,1’-methanediylbis(4-isocyanatocyclohexane) (HMDI, Desmodur W®), and 2,2’-[methanediylbis(benzene-4,1-diylmethanediylsulfanediyl)]diethanol (diol E) or 6,6’-[methanediylbis(benzene-4,1-diylmethanediylsulfanediyl)]dihexane-1-ol (diol H) as unconventional chain extenders. The effects of the kind and amount of the polymer diol and chain extender used on the structure and properties of the polymers were studied. The polymers were examined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, gel permeation chromatography, thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, Shore hardness and tensile testing. Both the adhesive and optical properties were determinated for a selected polymer. The obtained TPUs were amorphous, colorless, high-molar-mass materials. It was observed that the polymers with the diol E showed higher hardness and tensile strengths but smaller elongations at break than diol H-based ones. All of the polymers exhibited a relatively good thermal stability. Their temperatures of 5% mass loss were in the range 312-338°C.
Influence of heterogeneous nucleation on thermodynamic properties of isotactic polypropylene
Authors: Barczewski Mateusz , Dobrzyńska-Mizera Monika , Trzeciak Mirosław
Published: January 2014

In this paper we have investigated the effect of 1,2,3-trideoxy-4,6:5,7-bis-O-[(4-propylphenyl)methylene]-nonitol sorbitol used in varying amounts (0.01 - 1 wt %) on isotactic polypropylene (iPP) matrix. We have used dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) to study glass transition temperatures and crystallinity as a function of the nucleating agent concentration. Isotactic polypropylene samples showed a strong dependency on amount of α nucleating agent used. An increasing content of sorbitol based nucleating agent led to an increase of crystallization temperature upon cooling from the melt at constant rate and a decrease of the glass transition temperatures.
Fourier expansion along geodesics on Riemann surfaces
Authors: Deitmar Anton
Published: January 2014

For an eigenfunction of the Laplacian on a hyperbolic Riemann surface, the coefficients of the Fourier expansion are described as intertwining functionals. All intertwiners are classified. A refined growth estimate for the coefficients is given and a summation formula is proved.
Nonlinear self-adjointness and invariant solutions of a 2D Rossby wave equation
Authors: Cimpoiasu Rodica , Constantinescu Radu
Published: January 2014

The paper investigates the nonlinear self-adjointness of the nonlinear inviscid barotropic nondivergent vorticity equation in a beta-plane. It is a particular form of Rossby equation which does not possess variational structure and it is studied using a recently method developed by Ibragimov. The conservation laws associated with the infinite-dimensional symmetry Lie algebra models are constructed and analyzed. Based on this Lie algebra, some classes of similarity invariant solutions with nonconstant linear and nonlinear shears are obtained. It is also shown how one of the conservation laws generates a particular wave solution of this equation.
Biofilm formation and serum susceptibility in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Mikucionyte Greta , Dambrauskiene Asta , Skrodeniene Erika , Vitkauskiene Astra
Published: January 2014

Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) is one of the most important opportunistic pathogens. The pathogenicity of P. aeruginosa has been associated with multiple bacterial virulence factors. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between P. aeruginosa strains obtained from various clinical samples and resistance to antibiotics and pathogenicity factors, such as resistance to serum bactericidal activity and biofilm formation. This study included 121 P. aeruginosa strains isolated from clinical samples; 65 of the isolated P. aeruginosa strains were carbapenem-resistant, and 56 were carbapenem-sensitive. Carbapenem-resistant P. aeruginosa strains were more often resistant to the majority of tested antibiotics, compared to carbapenem-sensitive strains. We did not find any statistically significant difference between resistance to carbapenems and serum resistance and ability of tested P. aeruginosa strains to produce biofilms. Carbapenem-resistant P. aeruginosa strains were recovered from the urinary tract significantly more often (75.0%) than carbapenem-sensitive P. aeruginosa strains (25.0%). Carbapenem-sensitive P. aeruginosa strains were recovered significantly more often from the respiratory tract than carbapenem-resistant strains, 60.0% and 40.0%, respectively. All the P. aeruginosa strains recovered from blood were serum-resistant. P. aeruginosa strains recovered from the respiratory tract and wounds were significantly frequently serum sensitive, 95.6% and 56.6%, respectively. We did not find any differences in biofilm production among the P. aeruginosa strains recovered from different sources.
Interaction between Levothyroxine and Phenprocoumon: a case report
Authors: Gaeti Walderez , Obreli-Neto Paulo , Cuman Roberto
Published: January 2014

Several case reports have associated the combined use of thyroid drugs and oral anticoagulants, like coumarin, with overanticoagulation. However, this effect has never been described for phenprocoumon, a coumarin derivate that is widely prescribed in continental European countries and in Latin America. We describe a 62-year-old female who had an unexpectedly labile anticoagulation profile when levothyroxine (Puran T4®) was added to her drug therapy regimen, which included phenprocoumon (Marcoumar®). This resulted in an elevated international normalized ratio (INR) that was unrecordable and bleeding (macroscopic hematuria) that required hospitalization and treatment with vitamin K. The patient had been taking phenprocoumon for almost ten years for systemic embolism prophylaxis because of her history of mechanical bileaflet mitral valve prosthesis. One month before the events described, the patient was prescribed sodium levothyroxine (50 mcg daily) to treat hypothyroidism (TSH = 40 µU/mL; reference range, 0.40–4.0 µU/mL). Approximately 3 weeks prior to initiation of levothyroxine treatment, her INR was 2.8. A drug interaction was therefore suspected. The Horn Drug Interaction Probability Scale (DIPS) indicated a probable interaction between oral phenprocoumon and levothyroxine in this case. Clinicians should be aware that levothyroxine may interact with oral phenprocoumon, resulting in overanticoagulation.
MiR-34a regulates apoptosis in liver cells by targeting the KLF4 gene
Authors: Chen Qiu , Li Lei , Tu Yu , Zheng Lu , Liu Wei , Zuo Xue , He Yong , Zhang Shu , Zhu Wei , Cao Jian , Cui Feng , Hou Jun
Published: January 2014

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate gene expression by inhibiting translation or targeting messenger RNA (mRNA) for degradation in a posttranscriptional fashion. In this study, we show that ectopic expression of miR-34a-5p reduces the mRNA and protein levels of Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4). We also demonstrate that miR-34a targets the 3′-untranslated mRNA region of KLF4 and show that overexpression of miR-34a induces a significant level of apoptosis in BNL CL.2 cells exposed to doxorubicin or 10 Gy X-ray. Our data suggest that the effects of miR-34a on apoptosis occur due to the downregulation of KLF4.
Whooping craneGrus americanachick mortality and management intervention
Authors: King Richard S. , Espenshade Jessica L. , Kirkpatrick‐Wahl Sarah K. , Lapinski Monika K. , Malekan Ilana , Ricket Jennifer M.
Published: January 2014

Translocation of captive‐reared animals is widely used as a tool for endangered species recovery. Frequently, translocated populations have relatively low initial productivity, requiring management intervention. A translocated population of whooping cranesGrus americanain central Wisconsin is such a case. We examined chick mortality for this population and used daily chick survival rates as our response variable to model several parameters including phenology, chick age, energetics and parent age and experience. We also developed and evaluated adoption techniques using sandhill cranesGrus canadensisto mitigate the effects of high chick mortality and increase the probability of fledging. Our results illustrate the challenges that translocated populations can face as they encounter novel breeding conditions. We found that whooping crane daily chick survival was relatively low and most mortality events occurred within the first 20 days. Our results indicated that variables related to age of the parents as well as the pair's previous chick rearing experience were useful for predicting daily chick survival. We found that sandhill crane foster parents readily accepted replacement chicks. We also demonstrated adopted chicks acceptance of foster parents and that the chicks' source (captive‐born vs wild‐born) did not affect success of the adoption. Chick adoption provides several management options that could be used to bypass the period when chicks experience the greatest mortality. Reducing chick mortality and developing techniques to increase the number of fledged chicks is paramount for whooping crane recovery as well as the recovery of other endangered bird species.
Intraseasonal variation in survival and probable causes of mortality in greater sage‐grouse Centrocercus urophasianus
Authors: Blomberg Erik J. , Gibson Daniel , Sedinger James S. , Casazza Michael L. , Coates Peter S.
Published: January 2014

The mortality process is a key component of avian population dynamics, and understanding factors that affect mortality is central to grouse conservation. Populations of greater sage‐grouse Centrocercus urophasianus have declined across their range in western North America. We studied cause‐specific mortality of radio‐marked sage‐grouse in Eureka County, Nevada, USA, during two seasons, nesting (2008‐2012) and fall (2008‐2010), when survival was known to be lower compared to other times of the year. We used known‐fate and cumulative incidence function models to estimate weekly survival rates and cumulative risk of cause‐specific mortalities, respectively. These methods allowed us to account for temporal variation in sample size and staggered entry of marked individuals into the sample to obtain robust estimates of survival and cause‐specific mortality. We monitored 376 individual sage‐grouse during the course of our study, and investigated 87 deaths. Predation was the major source of mortality, and accounted for 90% of all mortalities during our study. During the nesting season (1 April ‐ 31 May), the cumulative risk of predation by raptors (0.10; 95% CI: 0.05‐0.16) and mammals (0.08; 95% CI: 0.03‐013) was relatively equal. In the fall (15 August ‐ 31 October), the cumulative risk of mammal predation was greater (M(mam) = 0.12; 95% CI: 0.04‐0.19) than either predation by raptors (M(rap) = 0.05; 95% CI: 0.00‐0.10) or hunting harvest (M(hunt) = 0.02; 95% CI: 0.0‐0.06). During both seasons, we observed relatively few additional sources of mortality (e.g. collision) and observed no evidence of disease‐related mortality (e.g. West Nile Virus). In general, we found little evidence for intraseasonal temporal variation in survival, suggesting that the nesting and fall seasons represent biologically meaningful time intervals with respect to sage‐grouse survival.
Human disturbance of grouse ‐ why and when?
Authors: Storch Ilse
Published: January 2014

Disturbance caused by human outdoor recreation and tourism activities is increasingly viewed as a threat to wildlife. Particularly in areas where threatened populations of wildlife overlap with highly frequented tourist locations, managers are challenged with reducing impacts of human disturbance on wildlife. For grouse, Tetraonidae, most studies on the effects of human disturbance address individual responses, whereas for conservation, the most relevant question is whether human presence negatively impacts the abundance and viability of populations. I here summarise published studies on the responses of grouse to the presence of humans, review the conceptual foundations of predation‐risk theory and the risk‐disturbance hypothesis, and propose a framework for research to aid conservation of grouse. Because grouse are found in many environments they are excellent model species for testing the predictions of the risk‐disturbance hypothesis.
Habitat selection by breeding rock ptarmiganLagopus muta helveticamales in the western Italian Alps
Authors: Nelli Luca , Meriggi Alberto , Franzoi Alessandro
Published: January 2014

Knowledge of resource selection patterns can provide important information for species conservation. During spring 2010 and 2011, we investigated habitat selection by territorial rock ptarmiganLagopus muta helveticamales in a protected area of the western Italian Alps. We located males from 30 randomly selected survey points, and we measured the proportions of cover‐type categories found within a 37‐ha area surrounding each observed bird using three classification maps of differing information and resolution. We also evaluated physical variables (altitude, slope and solar radiation) associated with the birds using a 75‐m digital terrain model. We modelled land cover and physical attributes under these three alternative land‐classification maps. The lowest resolution map, based on the Corine land‐cover map, did not have high predictive value because only orographic variables described the presence of birds; in our case, we found a negative effect of slope and a positive effect of altitude on presence of ptarmigan. The next higher resolution map, a local forest resource map, showed that slope had a negative effect and rocky grasslands had a positive effect on ptarmigan presence. Finally, using the highest resolution map, a phytosociological map of our Natural Park study area, the best‐ranked models were those having only cover‐type variables, with alpenroseRhododendron ferrugineumand blueberryVaccinium myrtillusscrubland and pioneer vegetation negatively correlated with the presence of rock ptarmigan. We concluded that a staged approach that uses maps of differing detail was successful for obtaining useful information on rock ptarmigan habitat selection, but the most interesting results about rock ptarmigan habitat selection at the scale of breeding territories were obtained only using a very detailed vegetation map. Because such detailed information is difficult to obtain on larger scales, we suggest wildlife managers cooperate to build similar mapping tools that allow analyses similar to ours.
Population viability analysis of the Japanese rock ptarmigan Lagopus muta japonica in Japan
Authors: Suzuki Ayaka , Kobayashi Atsushi , Nakamura Hiroshi , Takasu Fugo
Published: January 2014

The Japanese rock ptarmigan Lagopus muta japonica breeds only in limited alpine areas at high elevations (> 2,500 m a.s.l.) in Japan. The estimated population size is about 2,000 birds and their breeding distribution is subdivided into several local areas, in each of which they may be at risk of local extinction. We estimated age‐specific demographic parameters of the core population breeding on Mt. Norikura in Gifu and Nagano prefecture in Japan. We also estimated population viability using deterministic and stochastic population models. Age‐specific fertility (the number of female offspring that survived to the next breeding season per female) was 0.417 ± 0.086, 0.490 ± 0.080, 0.513 ± 0.153, 0.435 ± 0.078, 0.562 ± 0.139, 0.580 ± 0.122 (mean ± SE) for ages 1‐6+, respectively. The annual survival rate was 0.739 ± 0.047, 0.624 ± 0.064, 0.513 ± 0.087, 0.732 ± 0.151, 0.447 ± 0.220, 0.486 ± 0.089. The population growth rate, evaluated by use of a deterministic projection‐matrix model, predicted a stable population, λ = 1.105 ± 0.063, 95% CI = 0.985‐1.231 and λ = 1.114 ± 0.062, 0.996‐1.239, using two different assumptions for the final age of reproduction by ptarmigan. We evaluated the risk of extinction as the proportion of λs that was < 1, and this was ≤ 4.4%. To complement the deterministic model, we developed an individual‐based stochastic population model in which each of the individuals produced a variable number of offspring and survived one year with certain probabilities that were drawn from estimated distributions of age‐specific clutch size and survival rates. Averaged population growth rate under the stochastic model was λ = 1.1, and the risk of extinction defined as the proportion of trials in which population size ≤ 1 within 30 years was ≤ 8.9%, even when the starting population was small (15 birds). These results suggest that the local population at Mt. Norikura is stable in size and suffers a relatively low risk of extinction. We suggest that this population can serve as a potential source for surrounding small local populations that may be sink populations.
Survival of female capercaillieTetrao urogallusin northern Sweden
Authors: Åhlen Per‐Arne , Willebrand Tomas , Sjöberg Kjell , Hörnell‐Willebrand Maria
Published: January 2014

We studied survival and cause‐specific mortality of radio‐marked capercaillieTetrao urogallusfemales relative to habitat type in northern Sweden during 2000‐2004. Our high‐mountain area (1,600 km2) consisted of the alpine transition zone from Norway sprucePicea abies‐dominated forest, mountain birchBetula pubescensand alpine heath. Our low‐mountain areas consisted of two forest areas (300 and 160 km2) dominated by Scots pinePinus sylvestrisand characterised by more intensive forestry than the first‐mentioned area. Predation was the most common cause of mortality in both the high‐mountain (70%) and low‐mountain (90%) areas. We attributed 10% of mortality in both areas to hunting. Collisions with cars and power lines were only documented in the high‐mountain area. A Cox‐proportional regression model stratified by year suggested that hazard was lower for yearlings and birds using low‐mountain areas, but these estimates were associated with large uncertainties. Pooling all individuals showed an average annual survival probability of 0.68 (0.62‐0.75; 95% CI), with no tendency for hazard to vary among seasons. Because survival of females was comparable to those reported in other studies and the harvest mortality was low, we suggest that the capercaillie population in the Swedish high‐mountain region does not need any changes in the present management strategy.
Above-ground biomass models for Seabuckthorn (Hippophae salicifolia) in Mustang District, Nepal
Authors: Rajchal R , Meilby H
Published: January 2014

Seabuckthorn (Hippophae salicifolia D. Don.), an important multi-purpose tree, is found at altitudes of 2000–3600 m amsl in Nepal, but so far no models have been developed for estimating the biomass of this species, thus hampering resource assessment and management planning. Hence, the objective of this study was to develop local biomass models for wood, fruit, and leaves of Seabuckthorn. In November 2006, a diameter-stratified sample of 30 trees was harvested in Lete and Kunjo Village Development Committees at an altitude of about 2300 m amsl in the lower part of Mustang District, Nepal. The fresh weight of fruit and oven-dry weight of wood (stem and branches) and leaves were measured and used as a basis for developing biomass models. Diameters of the trees were measured at 30 cm above ground whereas the heights were measured in terms of the total tree height (m). Among several models tested, the models suggested for local use were: ln(woody biomass, oven-dry, kg) = -3.083 + 2.436 ln(diameter, cm), ln (fruit biomass, fresh, kg) = -3.237 + 1.346 ln(diameter, cm) and ln(leaf biomass, oven-dry, kg) = -4.013 + 1.403 ln(Diameter, cm) with adjusted coefficients of determination of 0.99, 0.73 and 0.91 for wood, fruit, and leaves, respectively. The models suggested for a slightly broader range of environmental conditions were: ln (woody biomass, oven-dry, kg) = -3.277 + 0.924 ln(diameter2 × height), ln(Fruit biomass, fresh, kg) = -3.146 + 0.485 ln(diameter2 × height) and ln(leaf biomass, oven-dry, kg) = -4.121 + 0.532 ln(diameter2 × height) with adjusted coefficients of determination of 0.99, 0.68, and 0.92 for wood, fruit, and leaves, respectively. The models can be used in assessment of Seabuckthorn resources and above-ground carbon and in the management of these resources by communities and others. Banko Janakari, Vol. 23, No. 1, Page 23-34 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/banko.v23i1.9464
Ethnomycological studies on some macro-fungi in Rupandehi District, Nepal
Authors: Aryal HP , Budathoki U
Published: January 2014

This ethnomycological investigation explores the wild edible microfungi with their identification and documentation of nutritional potential and indigenous knowledge. The study area occupies 154.75 hectare-land, and lies within a narrow limit of altitude between 110 m and 165 m above sea level in tropical deciduous riverine forest. Amanita caesarea, A. chepangiana, A. pantherina, Agaricus augustus, Coprinus comatus, C. plicatilis, Macrolepiota fuliginosa, M. rhacodes, Russula emetica, R. foetens, R. nigricans, Scleroderma bovista, S. citrinum, Termitomyces clypeatus and T. eurhizeus are found to be dominant. The collected samples represented 27 species of Basidiomycetes belonging to 6 orders, 13 families and 18 genera. The dried specimens are housed in the Tribhuvan University Central Herbarium, Kirtipur, Kathmandu, Nepal. The area embraces many mycophagous ethnic communities. The mycoelements prevailing in this area need sustainable conservation and utilization. Banko Janakari, Vol. 23, No. 1, Page 51-56 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/banko.v23i1.9467
Radiosurgery inhibition of the Notch signaling pathway in a rat model of arteriovenous malformations
Authors: Tu Jian , Li Yang , Hu Zhiqiang , Chen Zhongbin
Published: January 2014

Object

Notch signaling has been suggested to promote the development and maintenance of arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), but whether radiosurgery inhibits Notch signaling pathways in AVMs is unknown. The aim of this study was to examine molecular changes of Notch signaling pathways following radiosurgery and to explore mechanisms of radiosurgical obliteration of “nidus” vessels in a rat model of AVMs.

Methods

One hundred eleven rats received common carotid artery–to–external jugular vein anastomosis to form an arteriovenous fistula (AVF) model. Six weeks postoperatively, dilated small vessels and capillaries formed a nidus. The rats with AVFs received 25-Gy radiosurgery. The expression of Notch1 and Notch4 receptors and their ligands, Delta-like1 and Delta-like4, Jagged1, Notch downstream gene target HES1, and an apoptotic marker caspase-3 in nidus vessels in the AVF rats was examined immunohistochemically and was quantified using LAS-AF software at 7 time points over a period of 42 days postradiosurgery. The interaction events between Notch1 receptor and Jagged1, as well as Notch4 receptor and Jagged1, were quantified in nidus vessels in the AVF rats using proximity ligation assay at different time points over 42 days postradiosurgery.

Results

The expression of Notch1 and Notch4 receptors, Delta-like1, Delta-like4, Jagged1, and HES1 was observed in nidus vessels in the AVF rats pre- and postradiosurgery. Radiosurgery enhanced apoptotic activity (p < 0.05) and inhibited the expression of Notch1 and Notch4 receptors and Jagged1 in the endothelial cells of nidus vessels in the AVF rats at 1, 2, 3, 7, 21, 28, and 42 days postradiosurgery (p < 0.05). Radiosurgery suppressed the interaction events between Notch1 receptor and Jagged1 (p < 0.001) as well as Notch4 receptor and Jagged1 (p < 0.001) in the endothelial cells of nidus vessels in the AVF rats over a period of 42 days postradiosurgery. Radiosurgery induced thrombotic occlusion of nidus vessels in the AVF rats. There was a positive correlation between the percentage of fully obliterated nidus vessels and time after radiosurgery (r = 0.9324, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Radiosurgery inhibits endothelial Notch1 and Notch4 signaling pathways in nidus vessels while inducing thrombotic occlusion of nidus vessels in a rat model of AVMs. The underlying mechanisms of radiosurgery-induced AVM shrinkage could be a combination of suppressing Notch receptor signaling in blood vessel endothelial cells, leading to a reduction in nidus vessel size and thrombotic occlusion of nidus vessels.
Migrations en Méditerranée, une nouvelle donne
Authors: Wihtol de Wenden Catherine
Published: January 2014

Les migrations en Méditerranée sont un champ en vaste recomposition. Les révolutions arabes, la situation économique dans les pays européens et l’attraction du sud, qui devient aujourd’hui une destination presque aussi prisée que le nord (sur 240 millions de migrants internationaux, 130 millions se dirigent vers le nord, à partir du sud ou du nord) et 110 millions se dirigent vers le sud (à partir du sud ou du nord) ont-ils eu des conséquences pour les pays d’origine des immigrés dans la région et les destinations des émigrants ? Pour y répondre, il convient de ne pas considérer la Méditerranée comme un bloc, mais de montrer les différentes dimensions du processus de redéploiement en cours. Plusieurs facteurs doivent être pris en compte : la situation démographique très diversifiée – transition, pénurie de main d’œuvre ou d’emplois – l’attraction vers des pôles riches en emplois rémunérateurs (pétrole, gaz), le repoussoir que constituent des pays en crise et les événements à l’origine de flux de réfugiés, l’apparition de nouveaux pays de transit pour les migrants dans la région, en partie liée à la fermeture des frontières européennes, les Européens qui s’installent au sud.
Les migrations en Tunisie après la révolution
Authors: Boubakri Hassan
Published: January 2014

Ce texte traite du nouveau contexte migratoire dans lequel s’est retrouvée la Tunisie après « sa » révolution du début de l’année 2011. Il met l’accent sur les différents types de flux qu’a connus le pays, qu’il s’agisse des départs de dizaines de milliers de jeunes Tunisiens en direction de l’Italie, ou de l’exil de centaines de milliers de travailleurs migrants et de ressortissants libyens (où les familles étaient fortement représentées) durant la guerre dans leur pays. Après la fin du conflit et le rapatriement des travailleurs migrants et des familles vers leurs pays d’origine, la Tunisie a hérité d’un camp de transit pour réfugiés et demandeurs d’asile qui ne pouvaient pas rentrer dans leurs pays respectifs, eux-mêmes souvent en guerre ou en conflit ethnique. Mais les solutions proposées après la fermeture de ce camp, décidée par le Haut Commissariat des Nations unies pour les réfugiés (HCR), soulèvent un ensemble d’interrogation sur les risques d’externalisation du traitement de l’asile dans les pays tiers de transit dans le cadre des négociations des accords de mobilité entre ces pays et l’Union Européenne.
La vulnérabilité des réfugiés palestiniens à la lumière de la crise syrienne
Authors: Al-Husseini Jalal , Doraï Kamel
Published: January 2014

Depuis 2011, la crise syrienne et ses conséquences sur la population des quelque 500 000 réfugiés palestiniens qui y résident a fait rejaillir la vulnérabilité de cette population dans l’ensemble des pays du Moyen-Orient depuis son exode de 1948. Loin des discriminations sociales et économiques dont ils ont été les victimes dans certains pays voisins, comme au Liban, les réfugiés palestiniens se sont vus assurer en Syrie un accès sans entraves particulières à tous les secteurs de l’instruction publique ainsi qu’au marché du travail local. Mais la rébellion syrienne et la guerre civile qui s’en est suivie depuis 2011 les a ramenés à leur condition première : un peuple apatride, otage du conflit en cours, dépourvu d’une réelle protection étatique et exclu du système universel de protection des réfugiés mis en place par les Nations unies au début des années 1950.
Politiques de migration et d'asile de l'Union européenne en Méditerranée
Authors: Morice Alain , Rodier Claire
Published: January 2014

Dans le domaine des migrations, la Méditerranée est vue depuis ses rivages du nord, comme un péril constant. Les crises politiques et sociales sont dès lors révélatrices d’une inquiétude obsidionale dont la rationalité est problématique. Ce fut récemment encore le cas, à l’occasion des événements qui ont bouleversé la Tunisie et la Libye : confrontées à un flux de migrants Nord-Sud somme toute relativement faible, les politiques migratoires des pays européens et de l’Union européenne n’ont pas varié et ont continué à se fonder sur des critères de « maîtrise des flux » et d’externalisation des contrôles, y compris en ce qui concerne les réfugiés.
Le traitement des immigrés en France : un continuum depuis 1945
Authors: Brun François
Published: January 2014

Quelles que soient les circonstances et les lieux, les politiques migratoires en tant que telles, quelle que soit leur souplesse ou leur rigueur, semblent ne pas échapper à cette fin ultime : filtrer et trier les migrants admis à pénétrer et à demeurer sur un territoire. Que les portes soient plus ou moins ouvertes, que les critères d’admission soient principalement démographiques ou économiques, les politiques migratoires sont presque tautologiquement des politiques d’« immigration choisie ». La France ne fait pas exception à la règle.
L'émigration marocaine à partir de l'Espagne
Authors: Domingo Andreu , Sabater Albert , Peyroche Denise
Published: January 2014

Aujourd’hui dépassés par les Latino-Américains, après avoir constitué le premier groupe national au sein de la population immigrée en Espagne, les Marocains ou leurs descendants vivant dans ce pays présentent une certaine tendance au départ. Une analyse statistique réalisée malgré les limites imposées par les données disponibles.
Les migrations subsahariennes dans la presse quotidienne algérienne
Authors: Temlali Yassin
Published: January 2014

Important pays de transit pour des migrants subsahariens en route vers l’Europe, elle est aussi un pôle d’attraction pour des migrants qui s’installent principalement dans les villes du sud du pays. Ces migrations provoquent l’inquiétude des autorités algériennes qui a renforcé les dispositifs sécuritaires et fait adopter en 2008 une loi durcissant les sanctions pénales pour les contrevenants aux règles d’entrée et de séjour sur le territoire. Le traitement de ces migrations par les médias dégage l’impression d’une véritable unanimité nationale entre le gouvernement, les journalistes et la population sur leurs présumés dangers. En examinant 44 articles en arabe et en français, publiés entre le 2 mars 2008 et le 31 octobre 2009 1  dans quatre quotidiens privés, l’auteur tente de saisir les lignes dominantes du traitement médiatique de ces migrations.
Effect of water vapour on the determination of Aerosol Direct Radiative Effect based on the AERONET fluxes
Authors: Huttunen J. , Arola A. , Myhre G. , Lindfors A. V. , Mielonen T. , Mikkonen S. , Schafer J. , Tripathi S. N. , Wild M. , Komppula M. , Lehtinen K. E. J.
Published: January 2014

Abstract. The Aerosol Direct Radiative Effect (ADRE) is defined as the change in the solar radiation flux, F, due to aerosol scattering and absorption. The difficulty in determining ADRE stems mainly from the need to estimate F without aerosols, F0, with either radiative transfer modelling and knowledge of the atmospheric state, or regression analysis of radiation data down to zero aerosol optical depth (AOD), if only F and AOD are observed. This paper examines the regression analysis method by using modeled surface data products provided by the AErosol RObotic NETwork (AERONET). We extrapolated F0 by two functions: a straight linear line and an exponential nonlinear decay. The exponential decay regression is expected to give a better estimation of ADRE with a few percents larger extrapolated F0 than the linear regression. We found that, contrary to the expectation, in most cases the linear regression gives better results than the nonlinear. In such cases the extrapolated F0 represents an unrealistically low WVC, resulting in underestimation of attenuation caused by the water vapour, and hence too large F0 and overestimation of the magnitude of ADRE. The nonlinear ADRE is generally 40–50% larger in magnitude than the linear ADRE due to the extrapolated F0 difference. Since for a majority of locations, AOD and water vapour column (WVC) have a positive correlation, the extrapolated F0 with the nonlinear regression fit represents an unrealistically low WVC, and hence too large F0. The systematic underestimation of F0 with the linear regression is compensated by the positive correlation between AOD and water vapour, providing the better result.
Propagation of radiosonde pressure sensor errors to ozonesonde measurements
Authors: Stauffer R. M. , Morris G. A. , Thompson A. M. , Joseph E. , Coetzee G. J. R. , Nalli N. R.
Published: January 2014

Abstract. Several previous studies highlight pressure (or equivalently, pressure altitude) discrepancies between the radiosonde pressure sensor and that derived from a GPS flown with the radiosonde. The offsets vary during the ascent both in absolute and percent pressure differences. To investigate this problem further, a total of 731 radiosonde/ozonesonde launches from the Southern Hemisphere subtropics to northern mid-latitudes are considered, with launches between 2005 and 2013 from both longer term and campaign-based intensive stations. Five series of radiosondes from two manufacturers (International Met Systems: iMet, iMet-P, iMet-S, and Vaisala: RS80-15N and RS92-SGP) are analyzed to determine the magnitude of the pressure offset. Additionally, electrochemical concentration cell (ECC) ozonesondes from three manufacturers (Science Pump Corporation; SPC and ENSCI/Droplet Measurement Technologies; DMT) are analyzed to quantify the effects these offsets have on the calculation of ECC ozone (O3) mixing ratio profiles (O3MR) from the ozonesonde-measured partial pressure. Approximately half of all offsets are > ±0.6 hPa in the free troposphere, with nearly a third > ±1.0 hPa at 26 km, where the 1.0 hPa error represents ~ 5% of the total atmospheric pressure. Pressure offsets have negligible effects on O3MR below 20 km (96% of launches lie within ±5% O3MR error at 20 km). Ozone mixing ratio errors above 10 hPa (~ 30 km), can approach greater than ±10% (> 25% of launches that reach 30 km exceed this threshold). These errors cause disagreement between the integrated ozonesonde-only column O3 from the GPS and radiosonde pressure profile by an average of +6.5 DU. Comparisons of total column O3 between the GPS and radiosonde pressure profiles yield average differences of +1.1 DU when the O3 is integrated to burst with addition of the McPeters and Labow (2012) above-burst O3 column climatology. Total column differences are reduced to an average of −0.5 DU when the O3 profile is integrated to 10 hPa with subsequent addition of the O3 climatology above 10 hPa. The RS92 radiosondes are superior in performance compared to other radiosondes, with average 26 km errors of −0.12 hPa or +0.61% O3MR error. iMet-P radiosondes had average 26 km errors of −1.95 hPa or +8.75 % O3MR error. Based on our analysis, we suggest that ozonesondes always be coupled with a GPS-enabled radiosonde and that pressure-dependent variables, such as O3MR, be recalculated/reprocessed using the GPS-measured altitude, especially when 26 km pressure offsets exceed ±1.0 hPa/±5%.
Validation of spectral sky radiance derived from all-sky camera images – a case study
Authors: Tohsing K. , Schrempf M. , Riechelmann S. , Seckmeyer G.
Published: January 2014

Abstract. Spectral sky radiance (380–760 nm) is derived from measurements with a Hemispherical Sky Imager (HSI) system. The HSI consists of a commercial compact CCD (charge coupled device) camera equipped with a fish-eye lens and provides hemispherical sky images in three reference bands such as red, green and blue. To obtain the spectral sky radiance from these images non-linear regression functions for various sky conditions have been derived. The camera-based spectral sky radiance was validated by spectral sky radiance measured with a CCD spectroradiometer. The spectral sky radiance for complete distribution over the hemisphere between both instruments deviates by less than 20% at 500 nm for all sky conditions and for zenith angles less than 80°. The reconstructed spectra of the wavelength 380 nm to 760 nm between both instruments at various directions deviate by less then 20% for all sky conditions.
Comprehensive evaluation of water resources security in the Yellow River basin based on a Fuzzy Multi-Attribute Decision Analysis Approach
Authors: Liu K. K. , Li C. H. , Cai Y. P. , Xu M. , Xia X. H.
Published: January 2014

Abstract. In this paper, a Fuzzy Multi-Attribute Decision Analysis Approach (FMADAA) was adopted in water resources security evaluation for the nine provinces in the Yellow River basin in 2006. A numerical approximation system and a modified left-right scoring approach were adopted to cope with the uncertainties in the acquired information. Four multi-attribute decision making methods were implemented in the evaluation model for impact evaluation, including simple weighted addition (SWA), weighted product (WP), cooperative game theory (CGT) and technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) which could be used for helping rank the water resources security in those nine provinces as well as the criteria alternatives. Moreover, several aggregation methods including average ranking procedure, borda and copeland methods were used to integrate the ranking results. The ranking results showed that the water resources security of the entire basin is in critical, insecurity and absolute insecurity state, especially in Shanxi, Inner Mongolia and Ningxia provinces in which water resources were lower than the average quantity in China. Hence, future planning of the Yellow River basin should mainly focus on the improvement of water eco-environment status in the provinces above.
The Rossby wave extra invariant in the dynamics of 3-D fluid layers and the generation of zonal jets
Authors: Balk A. M.
Published: January 2014

Abstract. We consider an adiabatic-type (approximate) invariant that was earlier obtained for the quasi-geostrophic equation and the shallow water system; it is an extra invariant, in addition to the standard ones (energy, enstrophy, momentum), and it is based on the Rossby waves. The presence of this invariant implies the energy transfer from small-scale eddies to large-scale zonal jets. We show that this extra invariant can be extended to the dynamics of a three-dimensional (3-D) fluid layer on the beta plane. Combined with the investigation of other researchers, this 3-D extension implies enhanced generation of zonal jets. For a general physical system, the presence of an extra invariant (in addition to the energy–momentum and wave action) is extremely rare. We summarize the unique conservation properties of geophysical fluid dynamics (with the beta effect) that allow for the existence of the extra invariant, and argue that its presence in various geophysical systems is a strong indication that the formation of zonal jets is indeed related to the extra invariant. Also, we develop a new, more direct, way to establish extra invariants (without using cubic corrections). For this, we introduce the small denominator lemma.
Hexavalent chromium treatment implementation in Glendale, Calif.
Authors: Blute Nicole , Wu Xueying , Cron Charles , Abueg Ramon , Froelich Donald , Fong Leighton
Published: January 2014

The State of California released a draft maximum contaminant level (MCL) for hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)] of 10 μg/L, which is five times lower than the current California total chromium (Cr) MCL. Cr(VI) and total Cr are covered by the Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule 3 (UCMR3), with potential federal regulation on the horizon. The City of Glendale, Calif., in partnership with other entities, completed a decade of research identifying, testing, and implementing treatment technology options for removing Cr(VI) to low microgram‐per‐litre levels, including weak‐base anion (WBA) exchange, reduction/coagulation/filtration (RCF), and strong‐base anion (SBA) exchange. Demonstration‐scale testing of WBA at 425 gpm and RCF at 100 gpm for more than two years proved the effectiveness of the technologies at achieving < 1 μg/L Cr(VI) in treated water. Primary considerations in technology selection include disposal options for residuals, water quality, operational staff training, footprint, and cost.
Reviewing the occurrence data used in the revised Arsenic Rule
Authors: Alfredo Katherine , Seidel Chad , Roberson J. Alan
Published: January 2014

Large sampling initiatives are integral to the process of developing regulations, yet best practices for the data acquisition and analysis required to quantify potential health risks posed by contaminants are not well defined. Despite differing database sizes and analytical approaches, previous studies predicting water systems likely to be out of compliance with the maximum contaminant levels in the proposed revision of the Arsenic Rule were in close agreement with the predictions of the US Environmental Protection Agency's Arsenic Occurrence and Exposure Database and the current study's analysis of the agency's six‐year review of enforced maximum contaminant levels. The epidemiological analyses used in the final revision of the Arsenic Rule cite the differences in proposed concentrations leading to a reduction in potential incidences of cancer; however, for this type of analysis, population‐based occurrence data are necessary. When the data were analyzed on the basis of population served, the summary statistic generated an approximate 10% difference in the population exposed to arsenic concentrations > 10 μg/L. The research described in this article furthers the discussion of what information is needed to accurately predict nationwide arsenic occurrence, exposure, and health outcomes.
Retrospective analysis of mandated national occurrence monitoring and regulatory decisions
Authors: Roberson J. Alan , Eaton Andrew
Published: January 2014

The 1996 Safe Drinking Water Act amendments mandated a new process for selecting new contaminants for national drinking water regulations that included required national monitoring through the Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR) program. Two rounds of UCMR monitoring have been completed and the third UCMR monitoring is ongoing. Zero detects were found nationally for 30 of 50 (60%) contaminants in the first two rounds of UCMR monitoring. Contaminants were detected in approximately 20% of water systems for the first two rounds of UCMR monitoring, with lower reporting limits in the third UCMR increasing the percentage of detections. Water systems have spent more than $85 million on UCMR monitoring, and the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) should increase its outreach to the drinking water community and solicit the assistance of the community to optimize the usefulness of future UCMRs in the regulatory development process.
Reformulation of Adams-Moulton Block Methods as a Sub-Class of Two Step Runge-Kutta Method
Authors: Udaya Collins Okechukwu
Published: January 2014

Adams-Moulton methods for k = 2 and k = 3 were constructed together with their continuous forms using multi-step collocation methods. The continuous forms were then evaluated at various grid points to produce the block Adams-Moulton methods.

The block methods were then reformulated as a sub-class of two step Runge-Kutta methods (TSRK). Both the Adams and the reformulated methods were applied to solve initial value problems and the reformulated methods proved superior in terms of stability.