bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Legacy of Rice Roots as Encoded in Distinctive Microsites of Oxides, Silicates, and Organic Matter
Authors: Kölbl Angelika , Schweizer Steffen , Mueller Carsten , Höschen Carmen , Said-Pullicino Daniel , Romani Marco , Lugmeier Johann , Schlüter Steffen , Kögel-Knabner Ingrid
Published: August 2017

Rice (Oryza sativa) is usually grown under flooded conditions, leading to anoxic periods in the soil. Rice plants transport oxygen via aerenchyma from the atmosphere to the roots. Driven by O2 release into the rhizosphere, radial gradients of ferric Fe and co-precipitated organic substances are formed. Our study aimed at elucidating the composition and spatial extension of those gradients. Air-dried soil aggregates from a paddy field were embedded in epoxy resin, cut, and polished to produce cross sections. Reflected-light microscopy was used to identify root channels. With nano-scale secondary ion mass spectrometry (NanoSIMS), we investigated transects from root channels into the soil matrix and detected 12C−, 16O−, 12C14N−, 28Si−, 27Al16O−, and 56Fe16O− to distinguish between embedding resin, organic matter, oxides, and silicates. Image analyses reveal high occurrences of 56Fe16O− within and in close proximity of oxide-encrusted root cells, followed by a thin layer with high occurrences of 27Al16O− and 12C14N−. In two of the three transects, 28Si− only occurs at distances larger than approximately 10 µm from the root surface. Thus, we can distinguish distinct zones: the inner zone is composed of oxide encrusted root cells and their fragments. A thin intermediate zone may occur around some roots and comprises (hydr)oxides and organic matter. This can be distinguished from a silicate-dominated outer zone, which reflects the transition from the rhizosphere to the bulk soil.
Making Space for Proactive Adaptation of Rapidly Changing Coasts: A Windows of Opportunity Approach
Authors: Brown Katrina , Naylor Larissa , Quinn Tara
Published: August 2017

Coastlines are very often places where the impacts of global change are felt most keenly, and they are also often sites of high values and intense use for industry, human habitation, nature conservation and recreation. In many countries, coastlines are a key contested territory for planning for climate change, and also locations where development and conservation conflicts play out. As a “test bed” for climate change adaptation, coastal regions provide valuable, but highly diverse experiences and lessons. This paper sets out to explore the lessons of coastal planning and development for the implementation of proactive adaptation, and the possibility to move from adaptation visions to actual adaptation governance and planning. Using qualitative analysis of interviews and workshops, we first examine what the barriers are to proactive adaptation at the coast, and how current policy and practice frames are leading to avoidable lock-ins and other maladaptive decisions that are narrowing our adaptation options. Using examples from UK, we then identify adaptation windows that can be opened, reframed or transformed to set the course for proactive adaptation which links high level top-down legislative requirements with local bottom-up actions. We explore how these windows can be harnessed so that space for proactive adaptation increases and maladaptive decisions are reduced.
Enter the Dragon: The Dynamic and Multifunctional Evolution of Anguimorpha Lizard Venoms
Authors: Koludarov Ivan , Jackson Timothy NW , Brouw Bianca op den , Dobson James , Dashevsky Daniel , Arbuckle Kevin , Clemente Christofer J. , Stockdale Edward J. , Cochran Chip , Debono Jordan , Stephens Carson , Panagides Nadya , Li Bin , Manchadi Mary-Louise Roy , Violette Aude , Fourmy Rudy , Hendrikx Iwan , Nouwens Amanda , Clements Judith , Martelli Paolo , Kwok Hang Fai , Fry Bryan G.
Published: August 2017

While snake venoms have been the subject of intense study, comparatively little work has been done on lizard venoms. In this study, we have examined the structural and functional diversification of anguimorph lizard venoms and associated toxins, and related these results to dentition and predatory ecology. Venom composition was shown to be highly variable across the 20 species of Heloderma, Lanthanotus, and Varanus included in our study. While kallikrein enzymes were ubiquitous, they were also a particularly multifunctional toxin type, with differential activities on enzyme substrates and also ability to degrade alpha or beta chains of fibrinogen that reflects structural variability. Examination of other toxin types also revealed similar variability in their presence and activity levels. The high level of venom chemistry variation in varanid lizards compared to that of helodermatid lizards suggests that venom may be subject to different selection pressures in these two families. These results not only contribute to our understanding of venom evolution but also reveal anguimorph lizard venoms to be rich sources of novel bioactive molecules with potential as drug design and development lead compounds.
Fusarium Mycotoxins in Swiss Wheat: A Survey of Growers’ Samples between 2007 and 2014 Shows Strong Year and Minor Geographic Effects
Authors: Vogelgsang Susanne , Musa Tomke , Bänziger Irene , Kägi Andreas , Bucheli Thomas , Wettstein Felix , Pasquali Matias , Forrer Hans-Rudolf
Published: August 2017

To assess the occurrence of Fusarium toxins in wheat in Switzerland, an eight-year survey was conducted by analysing a total of 686 harvest samples from growers using LC-MS/MS. Between 2007 and 2010, 527 samples were obtained from 17 cantons. Between 2011 and 2014, 159 samples were collected from the canton Berne. The most frequent toxins detected were deoxynivalenol (DON), zearalenone (ZEA) and nivalenol (NIV). The overall mean DON content in all samples was 607 µg/kg, and 11% exceeded the European limit for unprocessed cereals for foodstuffs (1250 µg/kg). For ZEA (mean 39 µg/kg), 7% exceeded the respective limit (100 µg/kg), and the mean content of NIV (no limit established) was 15 µg/kg. Between the years, the ratio of mycotoxin-contaminated samples ranged between 52% and 98% for DON, 9% and 43% for ZEA and 0% and 49% for NIV. The yearly mean contents varied substantially between 68 and 1310 µg/kg for DON, 5 and 56 µg/kg for ZEA and 6 and 29 µg/kg for NIV. The geographic origin showed a significant effect on DON and ZEA contamination, but was inconsistent between the years. This study has shown that the majority of Swiss-produced wheat is, in terms of Fusarium toxins, fit for human consumption and feed purposes. Nevertheless, depending on the year, high toxin contents can be expected, an issue that growers, cereal collection centres and the food industry have to deal with to ensure food and feed safety.
Exosomes and Other Extracellular Vesicles in HPV Transmission and Carcinogenesis
Authors: Guenat David , Hermetet François , Prétet Jean-Luc , Mougin Christiane
Published: August 2017

Extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes (Exos), microvesicles (MVs) and apoptotic bodies (ABs) are released in biofluids by virtually all living cells. Tumor-derived Exos and MVs are garnering increasing attention because of their ability to participate in cellular communication or transfer of bioactive molecules (mRNAs, microRNAs, DNA and proteins) between neighboring cancerous or normal cells, and to contribute to human cancer progression. Malignant traits can also be transferred from apoptotic cancer cells to phagocytizing cells, either professional or non-professional. In this review, we focus on Exos and ABs and their relationship with human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated tumor development. The potential implication of EVs as theranostic biomarkers is also addressed.
Use Of Mandibular Advancement Devices For Obstructive Sleep Apnoea Treatment In Adults
Authors: Chaves Junior Cauby Maia , Dal Fabbro Cibele , Machado Marco Antonio Cardoso , Sales de Bruin Veralice Meireles , Carvalhedo de Bruin Pedro Felipe , Gurgel Marcela Lima , Torgeiro Sonia Maria Guimarães Pereira , Cevidanes Lucia , Haddad Fernanda Louise Martinho , Bittencourt Lia
Published: August 2017

ABSTRACT

Introduction: This article is based on Clinical Guidelines for obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) established by a taskforce coordinated by the Brazilian Sleep Association.

Objective: The aim of this article is to evaluate the available scientific evidence regarding the efficacy, adherence and safety of using mandibular advancement devices (MAD) as a therapeutic course for treating obstructive sleep apnoea in adult patients.

Method: Active searches were performed in the PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scielo/LILACS and Cochrane Library databases.  Methodological aspects were used to rank the levels of evidence according to the criteria of the Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine at Oxford.

Results: Mandibular advancement devices offer the best results for patients with primary snoring, upper airway resistance syndrome and mild or moderate OSA (Levels of Evidence I and II).  Patients seem to exhibit greater adherence to oral appliances (MAD) than to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices, although the latter are more effective in controlling OSA (Level of Evidence I).  The long-term side effects most observed after the use of MADs are related to changes in the mandibular and dental positions (Levels of Evidence I and II).

 

Conclusion: MAD constitute a therapeutic alternative for OSA and promote favourable results with good efficacy and adherence to treatment.  Side effects can arise in the short, medium or long term.  Patients must be informed about the possible occurrence of these adverse effects, and the orthodontist must be able to manage any side effects that occur due to the use of these devices.
Investigating the Relativistic Motion of the Stars Near the Supermassive Black Hole in the Galactic Center
Authors: Parsa M. , Eckart A. , Shahzamanian B. , Karas V. , Zajaček M. , Zensus J. A. , Straubmeier C.
Published: August 2017

The S-star cluster in the Galactic center allows us to study the physics close to a supermassive black hole, including distinctive dynamical tests of general relativity. Our best estimates for the mass of and the distance to Sgr A* using the three stars with the shortest period (S2, S38, and S55/S0-102) and Newtonian models are M
BH = (4.15 ± 0.13 ± 0.57) × 106
M
⊙ and R
0 = 8.19 ± 0.11 ± 0.34 kpc. Additionally, we aim at a new and practical method to investigate the relativistic orbits of stars in the gravitational field near Sgr A*. We use a first-order post-Newtonian approximation to calculate the stellar orbits with a broad range of periapse distance r

p
. We present a method that employs the changes in orbital elements derived from elliptical fits to different sections of the orbit. These changes are correlated with the relativistic parameter defined as ϒ ≡ r

s
/r

p
(with r

s
being the Schwarzschild radius) and can be used to derive ϒ from observational data. For S2 we find a value of ϒ = 0.00088 ± 0.00080, which is consistent, within the uncertainty, with the expected value of ϒ = 0.00065 derived from M
BH and the orbit of S2. We argue that the derived quantity is unlikely to be dominated by perturbing influences such as noise on the derived stellar positions, field rotation, and drifts in black hole mass.
The Galaxy Count Correlation Function in Redshift Space Revisited
Authors: Campagne J.-E. , Plaszczynski S. , Neveu J.
Published: August 2017

In the near future, cosmology will enter the wide and deep galaxy survey era, enabling high-precision studies of the large-scale structure of the universe in three dimensions. To test cosmological models and determine their parameters accurately, it is necessary to use data with exact theoretical expectations expressed in observational parameter space (angles and redshift). The data-driven, galaxy number count fluctuations on redshift shells can be used to build correlation functions

on and between shells to probe the baryonic acoustic oscillations and distance-redshift distortions, as well as gravitational lensing and other relativistic effects. To obtain a numerical estimation of

from a cosmological model, it is typical to use either a closed form derived from a tripolar spherical expansion or to compute the power spectrum

and perform a Legendre polynomial

expansion. Here, we present a new derivation of a

closed form using the spherical harmonic expansion and proceeding to an infinite sum over multipoles thanks to an addition theorem. We demonstrate that this new expression is perfectly compatible with the existing closed forms but is simpler to establish and manipulate. We provide formulas for the leading density and redshift-space contributions, but also show how Doppler-like and lensing terms can be easily included in this formalism. We have implemented and made publicly available software for computing those correlations efficiently, without any Limber approximation, and validated this software with the CLASSgal code. It is available at https://gitlab.in2p3.fr/campagne/AngPow.
Methanol Formation via Oxygen Insertion Chemistry in Ices
Authors: Bergner Jennifer B. , Öberg Karin I. , Rajappan Mahesh
Published: August 2017

We present experimental constraints on the insertion of oxygen atoms into methane to form methanol in astrophysical ice analogs. In gas-phase and theoretical studies this process has previously been demonstrated to have a very low or nonexistent energy barrier, but the energetics and mechanisms have not yet been characterized in the solid state. We use a deuterium UV lamp filtered by a sapphire window to selectively dissociate O2 within a mixture of O2:CH4 and observe efficient production of CH3OH via O(1D) insertion. CH3OH growth curves are fit with a kinetic model, and we observe no temperature dependence of the reaction rate constant at temperatures below the oxygen desorption temperature of 25 K. Through an analysis of side products we determine the branching ratio of ice-phase oxygen insertion into CH4: ∼65% of insertions lead to CH3OH, with the remainder leading instead to H2CO formation. There is no evidence for CH3 or OH radical formation, indicating that the fragmentation is not an important channel and that insertions typically lead to increased chemical complexity. CH3OH formation from O2 and CH4 diluted in a CO-dominated ice similarly shows no temperature dependence, consistent with expectations that insertion proceeds with a small or nonexistent barrier. Oxygen insertion chemistry in ices should therefore be efficient under low-temperature ISM-like conditions and could provide an important channel to complex organic molecule formation on grain surfaces in cold interstellar regions such as cloud cores and protoplanetary disk midplanes.
A new species of Lelegeis (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae: Diaperini) from the Atlantic Forest of Brazil
Authors: Aloquio Sergio , Lopes-Andrade Cristiano
Published: August 2017

Lelegeis Champion, 1886 occurs only in the Neotropical region and comprises four species: L. aeneipennis Champion, 1886 from Mexico; L. apicalis Laporte & Brullé, 1831 from Cuba; L. hispaniolae Triplehorn, 1962 from Haiti and the Dominican Republic; and L. nigrifrons (Chevrolat, 1878) occurring in Brazil, Mexico, Panama, Peru and Venezuela. Here, Lelegeis pytangasp. nov. is described based on specimens collected in the Atlantic Forest of Brazil, and the first detailed description of the sclerites of the male and female terminalia of Lelegeis is produced. The new species can be easily distinguished from the other Lelegeis by its dull reddish brown to reddish orange elytral coloration, while the remaining body surface is dull black. The morphology of Lelegeis and its generic boundaries within Diaperinae are discussed.
La VPC : une révolution sous le signe de la technologie
Authors: Desaegher Caroline , Siouffi Bernard
Published: August 2017

Dès 1955/60, pour faire face à la fois à la croissance de la demande et aux exigences d’une clientèle qui change, les entreprises leaders de VPC ont dû mettre au rebut leur organisation archaïque. Elles s’intègrent depuis les technologies de pointe, non seulement en matière de gestion des commandes, mais aussi au niveau de l’organisation logistique des stocks et de la fabrication des colis. A partir de 1970, la concurrence s’intensifie au sein du grand commerce ; les entreprises de VPC se doivent alors de développer leurs atouts. Elles continuent pour ce faire de faire appel aux techniques informatiques les plus puissantes, qui optimisent leur capacité à connaître et à fidéliser une clientèle invisible grâce à la personnalisation toujours plus poussée des courriers-clients et des mailings. Leurs stratégies de croissance ne cessent donc de s’appuyer sur des techniques capables de maîtriser et de rentabiliser toujours plus les coûts de prospection de la clientèle et de réalisation des catalogues, ainsi que de réduire toujours plus la contrainte de la distance entre elles et la clientèle. Dans cette optique, elles ont contribué à la création de nouveaux instruments de communication qui, à l’image du Minitel, permettent aux clients d’entrer en contact avec l’entreprise et de passer commande à n’importe quel moment. Ainsi, la “correspondance” et ses contraintes sont de moins en moins représentatives d’une VPC qui se revendique à présent “Vente à Distance”.
Les sciences sociales dans les grandes entreprises américaines des années 1980 : une ressource pour agir sur leur environnement
Authors: Albert-Debarle Aude
Published: August 2017

Depuis vingt ans, les grandes entreprises américaines ont accru l’embauche de spécialistes de sciences sociales. Cet article analyse le recours aux sciences sociales dans les grandes entreprises américaines pour connaître leur environnement. Il s’agit de comprendre la structure des services où ce recours est fait, leur mode de fonctionnement, la nature des programmes lancés. Les sciences sociales sont utilisées comme une ressource disponible pour élaborer des stratégies face aux pouvoirs publics. Mais, in fine , quelle est la validité d’approches qui empruntent des outils venant des sciences sociales, qui sont menées par des chercheurs de formation, sans toujours avoir la rigueur de la démarche scientifique ?
Real time PCR: a good tool to estimate mycotoxin contamination in pig diets
Authors: Okorski A. , Polak-Śliwińska M. , Karpiesiuk K. , Pszczółkowska A. , Kozera W.
Published: August 2017

Cereals and soybean are the main components of pig diets. Unfortunately, feed materials are often contaminated with fungi and their metabolites, which pose a potential threat to human and animal health. Therefore, this study was undertaken to evaluate the effectiveness of cultural methods and quantitative PCR for detecting fungi and their metabolites in pig diets, and to determine which plant components are responsible for mycotoxin contamination of feed. The presence of mycotoxin-producing fungi of the generaFusarium,Penicillium andAspergillus and their metabolites was determined in pig diets with different inclusion levels of various cereals and transgenic soybean meal. Six farm-made complete diets containing locally produced feed materials and imported soybean meal were investigated. The presence of the following fungi in pig diets was determined by microscopic observations of fungal cultures and by qPCR: trichothecene-producingFusarium spp. (Tri5 gene),Penicillium verrucosum (rRNA) andAspergillus ochraceus (PKS gene). The concentrations of mycotoxins (ochratoxin A (OTA) and zearalenone (ZEA)), trichothecenes (deoxynivalenol (DON), 3-acetyl-deoxynivalenol and T-2 toxin (T-2)) were analysed by HPLC. The results of the qPCR analysis demonstrated that the presence of DNA of mycotoxin-producing fungi and mycotoxins in pig diets was correlated with the inclusion levels of transgenic soybean meal and various cereals. The above correlation was validated by an analysis of Spearman’s rank correlation between the content of transgenic soybean meal and various cereals vs mycotoxin concentrations and the amount of DNA of toxin-producing fungi in pig diets. A significant positive correlation was found between: the percentage content of soybeans vs the concentrations of DON (R=0.93), trichothecenes (R=0.76) and T-2 (R=0.64), the percentage content of barley vs the concentrations of DON (R=0.50) and T-2 (R=0.49), the percentage content of triticale vs OTA levels (R=0.47), the percentage content of oats vs ZEA levels (0.50). A correlation was also noted between the percentage content of soybeans and the amount of DNA of trichothecene-producingFusarium spp. (R=0.96). The results of this study indicate that pig diets are significantly contaminated with toxin-producing fungi and their metabolites, and that the quantification of DNA of mycotoxin-producing fungi is a reliable indicator of mycotoxin contamination of feed. Our findings can contribute to reducing the costs of analyses that should be routinely performed to minimise the entry of mycotoxins into the food chain.
Tissue distribution of ochratoxin A in pigs after administration of two-levels contaminated diets
Authors: Altafini A. , Armorini S. , Zaghini A. , Sardi L. , Roncada P.
Published: August 2017

The aim of the present study was to determine the levels of ochratoxin A (OTA) in pigs experimentally exposed to this mycotoxin and to evaluate if bile may be used to assess exposure to OTA. Twelve hybrid pigs were divided into 3 equal groups, a control group D0, and 2 experimental groups, D1 fed with 50 µg OTA/kg diet, and D2 fed with 500 µg OTA/kg diet for 15 days. At the end of the test, the animals were euthanized and samples of different tissues and biological fluids were analysed by HPLC-fluorescence detection for the presence of OTA. Samples of unconventional edible tissues such as lung and heart were also taken for analysis because they are used in typical Italian regional dishes. The Italian guidance value for OTA of 1 µg/kg established for pork meat and derived products has been exceeded in all the matrices from both the experimental groups. The comparison between OTA levels detected in D1 and D2 groups showed clearly a linear dose-response relationship. Based on the mean values measured, OTA distribution follows the order blood plasma > lung > kidney (in D1 group), heart (in D2 group) > heart (in D1 group), kidney (in D2 group) > bile > liver > fat > muscle. Analysis of bile can be useful for the detection of OTA in pigs. However, since blood can easily be taken from pigs, and given the correlation between the mycotoxin concentration detected in this matrix and the concentrations detected in the others, OTA level in blood is a more viable approach to assessing the presence of OTA in edible tissues. As lung and heart may contain high concentrations of OTA, the analytical controls should also include these matrices.
How do changes in warm-phase microphysics affect deep convective clouds?
Authors: Chen Qian , Koren Ilan , Altaratz Orit , Heiblum Reuven H. , Dagan Guy , Pinto Lital
Published: August 2017

Abstract. Understanding aerosol effects on deep convective clouds and the derived effects on the radiation budget and rain patterns can largely contribute to estimations of climate uncertainties. The challenge is difficult in part because key microphysical processes in the mixed and cold phases are still not well understood. For deep convective clouds with a warm base, understanding aerosol effects on the warm processes is extremely important as they set the initial and boundary conditions for the cold processes. Therefore, the focus of this study is the warm phase, which can be better resolved. The main question is: How do aerosol-derived changes in the warm phase affect the properties of deep convective cloud systems? To explore this question, we used a weather research and forecasting (WRF) model with spectral bin microphysics to simulate a deep convective cloud system over the Marshall Islands during the Kwajalein Experiment (KWAJEX). The model results were validated against observations, showing similarities in the vertical profile of radar reflectivity and the surface rain rate. Simulations with larger aerosol loading resulted in a larger total cloud mass, a larger cloud fraction in the upper levels, and a larger frequency of strong updrafts and rain rates. Enlarged mass both below and above the zero temperature level (ZTL) contributed to the increase in cloud total mass (water and ice) in the polluted runs. Increased condensation efficiency of cloud droplets governed the gain in mass below the ZTL, while both enhanced condensational and depositional growth led to increased mass above it. The enhanced mass loading above the ZTL acted to reduce the cloud buoyancy, while the thermal buoyancy (driven by the enhanced latent heat release) increased in the polluted runs. The overall effect showed an increased upward transport (across the ZTL) of liquid water driven by both larger updrafts and larger droplet mobility. These aerosol effects were reflected in the larger ratio between the masses located above and below the ZTL in the polluted runs. When comparing the net mass flux crossing the ZTL in the clean and polluted runs, the difference was small. However, when comparing the upward and downward fluxes separately, the increase in aerosol concentration was seen to dramatically increase the fluxes in both directions, indicating the aerosol amplification effect of the convection and the affected cloud system properties, such as cloud fraction and rain rate.
Ages and transit times as important diagnostics of model performance for predicting carbon dynamics in terrestrial vegetation models
Authors: Ceballos-Núñez Verónika , Richardson Andrew D. , Sierra Carlos A.
Published: August 2017

Abstract. The global carbon cycle is strongly controlled by the source/sink strength of vegetation as well as the capacity of terrestrial ecosystems to retain this carbon. These dynamics, as well as processes such as the mixing of old and newly fixed carbon, have been studied using ecosystem models, but different assumptions regarding the carbon allocation strategies and other model structures may result in highly divergent model predictions. We modeled three systems of vegetation compartments and assessed their performance by calculating the age of the carbon in vegetation system and within each compartment, and the overall transit time of C in the system. We used these diagnostics to assess the influence of three different carbon allocation schemes on the rates of C cycling in vegetation. First, we used published measurements of ecosystem C compartments from the Harvard Forest Environmental Measurement Site to find the best set of parameters for the different model structures. Second, we calculated C stocks, release fluxes, radiocarbon values based on the bomb spike, ages, and transit times. We found a good fit of the three model structures to the available data, but the time series of C in foliage and wood need to be complemented with other ecosystem compartments in order to reduce the high parameter collinearity that we observed, and reduce model equifinality. Differences in model structures had a small impact on predicting C stocks in ecosystem compartments, but overall they resulted in very different predictions of age and transit time distributions. In particular, the inclusion of two storage compartments resulted in the prediction of a system mean age that was 10–20 years older than in the models with one or no storage compartments. The age of carbon in the wood compartment of this model was also distributed towards older ages, whereas fast cycling compartments had an age distribution that did not exceed 5 years. As expected, models with C distributed towards older ages also had longer transit times. These results suggest that ages and transit times, which can be indirectly measured using isotope tracers, serve as important diagnostics of model structure and could largely help to reduce uncertainties in model predictions. Furthermore, by considering age and transit times of C in vegetation compartments as distributions, not only their mean values, we obtain additional insights on the temporal dynamics of carbon use, storage, and allocation to plant parts, which not only depends on the rate at which this C is transferred in and out of the compartments, but also on the stochastic nature of the process itself.
On determining the point of no return in climate change
Authors: van Zalinge Brenda C. , Feng Qing Yi , Aengenheyster Matthias , Dijkstra Henk A.
Published: August 2017

Abstract. Earth's global mean surface temperature has increased by about 1.0 °C over the period 1880–2015. One of the main causes is thought to be the increase in atmospheric greenhouse gases. If greenhouse gas emissions are not substantially decreased, several studies indicate that there will be a dangerous anthropogenic interference with climate by the end of this century. However, there is no good quantitative measure to determine when it is too late to start reducing greenhouse gas emissions in order to avoid such dangerous interference. In this study, we develop a method for determining a so-called point of no return for several greenhouse gas emission scenarios. The method is based on a combination of aspects of stochastic viability theory and linear response theory; the latter is used to estimate the probability density function of the global mean surface temperature. The innovative element in this approach is the applicability to high-dimensional climate models as demonstrated by the results obtained with the PlaSim model.
A Coupled Modeling Framework for Sustainable Watershed
Management in Transboundary River Basins
Authors: Khan Hassaan F. , Yang Y.-C. Ethan , Xie Hua , Ringler Claudia
Published: August 2017

Abstract. There is a growing recognition among water resources managers that sustainable watershed management needs to not only account for the diverse ways humans benefit from the environment, but also incorporate the impact of human actions on the natural system. Coupled natural-human system modeling through explicit modeling of both natural and human behavior can help reveal the reciprocal interactions and coevolution of the natural and human systems. This study develops a spatially scalable, generalized modeling framework consisting of a process-based distributed hydrologic model (SWAT) and a decentralized water systems model (ABM) to simulate the impacts of water resources management decisions that affect the food-water-energy-environment (FWEE) nexus at a watershed scale. Agents within a river basin are geographically delineated based on both political and watershed boundaries and represent key stakeholders of ecosystem services. Agents decide about the priority across three primary water uses: food production, hydropower generation and ecosystem health within their geographical domains. Agents interact with the environment (streamflow) through the SWAT model and interact with other agents through a parameter representing willingness to cooperate. The innovative two-way coupling between the water systems model and SWAT enables this framework to fully explore the feedback of human decisions on the environmental dynamics and vice versa. This generalized ABM framework is tested in two key transboundary river basins, the Mekong River Basin in Southeast Asia and the Niger River Basin in West Africa, where water uses for ecosystem health compete with growing human demands on food and energy resources. We present modeling results for crop production, energy generation and violation of eco-hydrological indicators at both the agent and basin-wide levels to shed light on holistic FWEE management policies in these two basins.
A novel method of sensitivity analysis testing by applying the DRASTIC and fuzzy optimization methods to assess groundwater vulnerability to pollution: the case of the Senegal River basin in Mali
Authors: Souleymane Keita , Zhonghua Tang
Published: August 2017

Abstract. Vulnerability to groundwater pollution in the Senegal River basin was studied by two different but complementary methods: the DRASTIC method (which evaluates the intrinsic vulnerability) and the fuzzy method (which assesses the specific vulnerability by taking into account the continuity of the parameters). The validation of this application has been tested by comparing the connection in groundwater and distribution of different established classes of vulnerabilities as well as the nitrate distribution in the study area. Three vulnerability classes (low, medium and high) have been identified by both the DRASTIC method and the fuzzy method (between which the normalized model was used). An integrated analysis reveals that high classes with 14.64 % (for the DRASTIC method), 21.68 % (for the normalized DRASTIC method) and 18.92 % (for the fuzzy method) are not the most dominant. In addition, a new method for sensitivity analysis was used to identify (and confirm) the main parameters which impact the vulnerability to pollution with fuzzy membership. The results showed that the vadose zone is the main parameter which impacts groundwater vulnerability to pollution while net recharge contributes least to pollution in the study area. It was also found that the fuzzy method better assesses the vulnerability to pollution with a coincidence rate of 81.13 % versus that of 77.35 % for the DRASTIC method. These results serve as a guide for policymakers to identify areas sensitive to pollution before such sites are used for socioeconomic infrastructures.
Wave energy dissipation in the mangrove vegetation off Mumbai,
India
Authors: Volvaiker Samiksha S. , Vethamony Ponnumony , Bhaskaran Prasad K. , Pednekar Premanand , Jishad MHamsa , James Arthur
Published: August 2017

Abstract. Coastal regions of India are prone to sea level rise, cyclones, storm surges and human induced activities, resulting in flood, erosion, and inundation. The primary aim of the study is to estimate wave attenuation by mangrove vegetation using SWAN model in standalone mode, as well as SWAN nested with WW3 model for the Mumbai coastal region. To substantiate the model results, wave measurements were carried out during 5–8 August 2015 at 3 locations in a transect normal to the coast using surface mounted pressure level sensors under spring tide conditions. The measured data presents wave height attenuation of the order of 52 %. The study shows a linear relationship between wave height attenuation and gradual changes in water level in the nearshore region, in phase with the tides. Model set-up and sensitivity analyses were conducted to understand the model performance to vegetation parameters. It was observed that wave attenuation increased with an increase in drag coefficient (Cd), vegetation density, and stem diameter. For a typical set-up for Mumbai coastal region having vegetation density of 0.175 per m2, stem diameter of 0.3 m and drag coefficient varying from 0.4 to 1.5, the model reproduced attenuation, ranging from 49 to 55 %, which matches well with the measured data. Spectral analysis performed for the cases with and without vegetation very clearly portrays energy dissipation in the vegetation area as well as spectral changes. This study has the potential of improving the quality of wave prediction in vegetation areas, especially during monsoon season and extreme weather events.
The hidden ecological resource of andic soils in mountain ecosystems: evidences from Italy
Authors: Terribile Fabio , Iamarino Michela , Langella Giuliano , Manna Piero , Mileti Florindo Antonio , Vingiani Simona , Basile Angelo
Published: August 2017

Abstract. Andic soils have unique morphological, physical and chemical properties that induce both considerable soil fertility and great vulnerability to land degradation. Moreover they are the most striking mineral soils in terms of large organic C storage and long C residence time; this is especially related to the presence of poorly crystalline clay minerals and metal-humus complexes. Recognition of these soils is then very important. Here we attempt to show, through the combined analysis of 35 sampling points chosen, throughout the Italian non volcanic mountain landscapes, in accordance to specific physical and vegetation rules, that soils rich in poorly crystalline clay minerals have an utmost ecological importance. More specifically, in various non-volcanic mountain ecosystems (> 700 m) and in low slope gradient locations (
Arqueología, derechos humanos y política en Uruguay: una relación precaria
Authors: Lopez Mazz Jose
Published: August 2017

La arqueología no deriva directamente en acciones y consecuencias políticas, nada más alejado de la excavación, y las sociedades pretéritas, que los escenarios políticos de confrontación, violaciones
de los Derechos Humanos, propuestas de gobierno o cosas como la lucha de clases y la concentración de la riqueza; en el momento actual, su campo es el pasado. Pero esta condición de aparente desconexión
del contexto, sin embargo, es la que facilita la relevancia política de la disciplina, la que paradójicamente adquiere su eficacia política, al presentarse como un recurso débil para esa acción. No obstante,
la disciplina se ha visto envuelta históricamente en luchas ideológicas
que arrastraron consecuencias políticas para la gente implicada. En ese sentido, puede ser peligroso seguir el sentido común que pretende una arqueología sin virtudes políticas, que no puede accionar sobre el poder. Precisamente, trivializar esa relación es lo que permite a la política
ingresar de un modo abierto y desembozado para llevar a cabo su agenda: politizar la disciplina, ignorando el contexto, al que precisamente la arqueología busca reaccionar y responder con herramientas
propias.
Reutilización de los edificios patrimoniales. ¿Re-significación de la memoria?
Authors: González Muñoz Jenny
Published: August 2017

El presente artículo pretende llevar al lector hacia la reflexión sobre la reutilización de los edificios patrimoniales siendo estos lugares de memoria tanto histórica como colectiva y social, de los pueblos a los que
pertenecen. Con ejemplos específicos en casos de países como Uruguay, México y Venezuela, se desarrolla un breve análisis sobre lo conveniente o no de la intervención de la arquitectura original de los edificios como lugares de memoria para continuar luego planes de nuevas perspectivas
de uso muchos de los cuales no siempre están vinculados con lo cultural,
lo cual apunta a una suerte de agresión a la identidad y sentido de pertenencia de la comunidad hacia dichos edificios. Se aboga también hacia la salvaguarda, conservación y protección de los edificios patrimoniales como lugares de memoria.

Palabras clave: Lugares de memoria. Memoria. Nuevos usos. Patrimonio material.
Práticas discursivas e manifestações culturais: cenografia e ethos na constituição identitária da mulher na imigração italiana em Nova Prata
Authors: Ribeiro Gonçalves Iverton Gessé , De Freitas Ernani Cesar
Published: August 2017

Este trabalho analisa a constituição da identidade da mulher nas práticas discursivas da imigração italiana em Nova Prata - RS através da composição da cenografia e do ethos discursivo. A investigação parte das concepções de Maingueneau (2002, 2008a, 2008b, 2008c) em relação à semântica global, à cenografia e ao ethos discursivo. Os estudos das manifestações culturais e da identidade em Hall (2011, 2013), Bauman (2005), Bourdieu (1989), De Certeau (1995) e Geertz (2008) complementam o aporte teórico em interface. O corpus de pesquisa é composto por alguns recortes do vídeo-documentário Mulheres e Memórias, e que dialogam com outras materialidades discursivas da imigração italiana nessa região. Este trabalho caracteriza-se como descritivo, bibliográfico e documental, de abordagem qualitativa. No fio do discurso da imigração italiana surge um enunciador envaidecido pelo seu trabalho e sua ligação quase materna com a terra mediante cenografias que legitimam sentidos cristalizados pela memória discursiva, relativos à família, à religiosidade e ao cultivo da terra.
O homem na língua: o dialeto como índice de subjetividade e identidade cultural
Authors: Dos Santos Lima Daniele , Rêgo Barros Isabela
Published: August 2017

A teoria traçada neste trabalho gira em torno do axioma enunciativo de Benveniste (2005; 2006; 2014): enunciação é o colocar em funcionamento a língua por um ato individual de utilização. Com base em uma pesquisa qualitativa do tipo estudo de caso, realizada em duas capitais nordestinas, Recife e Salvador, baseada nas orientações de Cardoso (2010) e nos estudos de Benveniste (2005; 2006), identificamos nuances que permeiam a fala de dois espaços próximos, mas, que ao mesmo tempo, com características socioculturais distintas. Nosso objetivo é revelar que a enunciação possui valores semióticos e semânticos, que marcam o sujeito no discurso, destacando o dialeto não apenas como traço linguístico de uma comunidade, mas carregado de sentido para os usuários da língua, que ao mesmo tempo reafirma a sua identidade cultural.
Implementing a new pedagogy in the nursing curriculum: Bachelor students’ evaluation
Authors: Dale Jan Gunnar , Dale Bjørg
Published: August 2017

Background: Inspired by the work of Benner and colleagues at Carnegie Foundation, a new course in nursing was implemented in the first study year’s curriculum in the bachelor program in nursing. The new nursing course included a shift from a lecture-only classroom based approach to a problem-based and case-based approach. Reflections and discussions in groups with fellow students and supervisors was the main activity. The aim of this study was to examine how the students experienced the new nursing course.Methods: The survey study was conducted at a university in southern Norwegian. The sample consisted of students in two subsequent classes (n = 126 and n = 118), who had followed the new study plan in the first study year and the traditional study plan in the second study year. An electronic survey, including questions concerning the extent, quality and usefulness of the study plans were examined.Results: The students were, in general, satisfied with the new nursing course regarding the content and quality. The teachers’ presence and ability to engage, challenge and facilitate reflection seemed to be decisive. Reflecting and discussing real-life patient cases in groups with fellow students and a supervisor was stimulating, motivating and useful for learning professional nursing.Conclusions: A problem based, case-based pedagogy might increase the students’ preparedness for solving patient problems that they encounter in clinical settings. Cooperation and reflection in small groups with fellow students and the supervisor enhance nursing students’ clinical reasoning skills, and might contribute to reduce the gap between theory and practice.
Stay on the Cutting-edge of New Technology: Case Study of Gas Turbine Air Filters Durability Enhancement
Authors: Al-Shafei Mansour , Alabedi Gasan
Published: August 2017

The Research and Development Center (R&DC) of Saudi Aramco has developed new application in ultrasound technology to support the huge networks of crude oil and gas processing facilities, including items of equipment running 24/7.Gas turbines are playing a vital role in supplying energy to different facilities within the companies and they need complex air filtration systems to operate at high speeds and prevent turbine section components from erosion, fouling, and corrosion. Saudi Aramco’s plants have a large number of energy producing gas turbines and the frequent air filter replacement program has become so expensive, that consequently, it has attracted the attention of the plant management to find an appropriate solution for cost reduction.R&DC of Saudi Aramco has completed an extensive investigative study to design and examine ultrasonic (sound waves) technology as a practical, easy-to-apply, and cost-effective cleaning procedure to remove the dust and dirt to maximize the lifetime of the air filters. Experimentally, high frequency sound is passed through a cleaning solution, providing waves of high and low pressure. Microscopic bubbles are produced, which implode almost immediately, bringing the cleaning fluid into contact with the surface being cleaned with great force, thereby breaking down dirt particles and cleaning the surface. Using sonic cleaning, it has been found that the filters are not only cleaned from dust and dirt but also from organic materials without affecting the physical integrity of the air filter.This technical paper benchmarks a technology that has been established to reuse more than 10,000 air filters, which are usually discarded companywide each year. Implementing this technology would not only result in operational cost savings, but also would contribute to the reduction of the local and global environmental impact.
Marketing in virtual world of second life – literature review
Authors: Hofman-Kohlmeyer Magdalena
Published: August 2017

Entrepreneurs allocate a lot of money in various activities to attract customer attention. One of them is product or brand embedded into game environment, especially in virtual world. The present article is aimed to investigate online marketing opportunities in virtual world on the example of Second Life. To achieve the assumed goal, description of world of Second Life is presented. The next part pertains to present research in the field of marketing communication in Second Life based on literature review. The analysis of literature review indicates that most common form of use of virtual world is communication between residents and brand promotions. The survey also explores the important role of virtual events and business meetings. Additionally, the companies have been using Second Life for products presentation and new products development. The final part of the article presents some conclusions and suggestions for future research.
Procedimento público, religião e esfera pública em debate
Authors: Barros Douglas Ferreira , Vasconcellos Diego I. F.
Published: August 2017

O artigo busca apresentar alguns limites do procedimento público de grupos religiosos, segundo avaliação de Jurgen Habermas. Parte-se da constatação de que visões de mundo calcadas na fé impõem, ou têm imposto, uma série de dificuldades para o estabelecimento de uma ordem plural e democrática em sociedades seculares contemporâneas. Pretendemos em termos metodológicos nos concentrar na discussão de trabalhos mais recentes da obra habermasiana (2006; 2007; 2010; 2012), avaliando e esclarecendo conceitos imprescindíveis de sua reflexão sobre o lugar da religião na esfera pública. Em nosso intento de esclarecer os limites dos procedimentos religiosos em sociedades democráticas pretendemos destacar, como conclusão, da insuficiência do princípio do Estado neutro defendido por Habermas.