bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of the Elastic-Plastic Properties of 15Kh2MFA Steel with Austenitic Cladding
Authors: Materna Aleš , Nohava Jiri , Haušild Petr , Oliva Vladislav
Published: September 2013

The spherical indentation response of pressure vessel reactor steel with austenitic cladding is investigated both experimentally and numerically. The instrumented indentation test was performed for both materials at a sufficient distance from the bi-material interface, thus the results can be compared with the bulk data obtained from the standard tensile and compression tests. The stress – plastic strain curve for austenitic cladding estimated by a simplified inverse analysis of the indentation load – penetration curve is shifted to a harder response compared with that determined from the tensile test. One of the possible reasons, anisotropy of the cladding metal, was experimentally observed during the compression tests performed in the longitudinal orientation of the tensile test specimens and in the transverse orientation identical with the direction of the material indentation.
Limitations of Similarity Principle in Indentation Testing of Small Samples
Authors: Menčík Jaroslav
Published: September 2013

The paper summarizes principles of similarity and shows where they loose their validity in material tests by indentation and what should be considered in their preparation and evaluation.
Experimental Analysis of Local Stress State and Deformation in the Critical Area of Combustion Engine Cylinder
Authors: Pešek Ladislav
Published: September 2013

The article is focused on local stress simulation as well as local deformation analysis in a cylinder of piston combustion engine. Design of the exhaust pipe system has to fulfill special requirements with regard to the combined loading due to high pressures and temperatures. There is a special role of the exhaust pipe barrier, which is situated in the exhaust gas pipe. This barrier separates the main air hole from the secondary lateral auxiliary air holes. The exhaust pipe barrier seems to be a critical point of the cylinder. The finite-element analysis applied on the silumin-cast cylinder is presented in the paper in order to prove the critical places with high stress concentration. The local strength of the cylinder material was estimated using a material model based on relation between the strength and the mean distance between the secondary dendrite arms (SDAS) in the as-cast microstructure. Due to local heterogeneities there are differences in the local strength value at the various places of the microstructure. The simulation of stress distribution was performed by use of the finite-element method. Based on the relation „local stress/local strength“ the individual critical places in the cylinder were defined and located.
Role of Nitric Oxide, Asymmetric Dimethylarginine and Endothelial Dysfunction in Arteriovenous Fistula Failure: Should We be More Hopeful with Nebivolol?
Authors: Solak Yalcin , Biyik Zeynep , Kanbay Mehmet
Published: September 2013

Native arteriovenous (AV) fistula is the preferred form of permanent dialysis access. Despite its advantages over grafts and catheters, early and late fistula failures are relatively common and represent an enormous burden on patients and the health care system. AV fistula maturation is a complex process that has not yet been fully clarified. However, recent experimental and clinical trials showed that nitric oxide (NO) plays a crucial role in fistula maturation and maintenance. After creation of AV fistula, both vein and artery of the anastomosis need to dilate to reduce increased shear stress back to normal levels. This task is achieved mainly by NO-induced smooth muscle relaxation. Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), now considered a new uremic toxin, is a naturally occurring aminoacid that inhibits nitric oxide synthase enzyme. The endothelial NOS isoenzyme form of this enzyme is primarily responsible for generation of nitric oxide. Chronic kidney disease patients have extensive endothelial dysfunction and increased ADMA 1 levels, and consequently have diminished NO reserves. Nebivolol is a third generation, highly cardio-selective beta-blocker whose main mechanism of action is dilatation of vascular smooth muscle. This dilatation takes place by means of increased NO. We review roles of NO and ADMA in fistula maturation and hypothesize that nebivolol as a direct facilitator of NO production would be beneficial in the process of fistula maturation and maintenance of access patency.
MONOCYTE ADHESION MOLECULES EXPRESSION IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC HEPATITIS C AND LIVER CIRRHOSIS
Authors: El-Bassiouni Nora E.I. , Mahmoud Ola Mahmoud , El Ahwani Eman G , Ibrahim Raafat A. , El Bassiouny Azza E.I.
Published: September 2013

Abstract: Introduction: Chronic viral hepatitis is histologically characterized by predominantly periportal infiltration of mononuclear cells, including monocytes/macrophages. Intralobular infiltration of these inflammatory cells is an ominous sign of deterioration and a criterion for disease activity. We aimed to study the expression of monocytes adhesion molecules and their endothelial ligands in patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) and liver cirrhosis (LC). The influence of cytokines and chemokine on monocyte adhesion was also taken into account. Material and Methods: The current study included 30 cases of CHC, 30 cases of LC and 15 normal healthy controls. Flow cytometric quantification of CD11a, CD11b and CD49d monocyte surface antigen expression was performed. Circulating sE-selectin, sICAM-1, sVCAM-1, TNF-α, IL-1 and MCP-1 were measured by ELISA kits. Results: The expression of CD11b, CD49d, and the serum level of sICAM-1, sVCAM-1, TNF-α showed progressive increase from non-cirrhotic to cirrhotic patients. correlation was found between monocyte adhesion molecules CD11a, CD11b and CD49d and each of sICAM-1 and sVCAM-1 Conclusions: These findings suggest that the modulation of monocyte-subset recruitment into the liver via adhesion molecules or cytokines/cytokine receptors may represent promising approaches for therapeutic interventions in human liver fibrosis. Measurement of serum soluble adhesion molecules may be useful for monitoring progression of liver inflammation and fibrosis during CHC.
Environmental response to climate change in the Canadian High Arctic
Authors: Garneau M , Alt B T
Published: September 2013

Fosheim Peninsula is the largest interior lowland of the protected, anomalously warm, dry, Eureka Sound intermontane area, which lies in the circumpolar-vortex-dominated Canadian High Arctic. The climate of this latter region is characterized by high,
longitudinal temperature variations, strong, persistent temperature inversions, and widely differing precipitation totals.
Climate and related trends for 1961 to 1990 were used to delineate climate change regions around the circumarctic area and to examine their response to recent global climate conditions. General circulation model results for doubled CO2 scenarios show least agreement in this geographical area, with
only a transient model with a coupled ocean circulation model reflecting the current observed trends. Because of the anomalous conditions of the Eureka Sound area within the eastern Canadian High Arctic and similarly of the latter region within the circumpolar Arctic, close monitoring and
interdisciplinary research are warranted to understand the climate processes involved.
Ditlhohlo t�e Malutere a Borwa bja Afrika a lebanego nat�o
Authors: Farisani Elelwani B.
Published: September 2013

The challenges facing Lutherans in South(ern) Africa. This article seeks to discuss what the future appears to hold for Lutheranism in South Africa. In order to do this, it is important to look at the past through the history and involvement of Lutheranism in South Africa. This will show the strengths, weaknesses, challenges, and opportunities for Lutheran theology and the Lutheran churches in South Africa in relation to Lutheranism in its global context. Accordingly the article starts off by providing a brief history of Lutheranism in South Africa, examining the role of missionaries from Germany, Norway and Sweden in establishing Lutheranism in South Africa. The article also looks at how apartheid divided the faithful along racial lines, thereby pointing to the challenges, weaknesses, as well as the strengths of the mission of Lutheran churches in this part of Africa. It then moves on to discuss some challenges before Lutheranism in South Africa today. Some of the challenges discussed in this article are as follows: (1) efforts to unite the Black and White Lutherans have so far not succeeded, (2) the role of Lutheran theological education in equipping ministers to address current societal challenges, (3) financial sustainability, (4) African Religious Pluralism, (5) the promotion of gender sensitivity and equality amongst Lutheran congregants, (6) ethnicity and (7) the role and status of self-supporting ministry. And, finally, the article highlights few issues about the changing world of Lutheranism globally.
Effects of Martial Arts Exercise on Body Composition, Serum Biomarkers and Quality of Life in Overweight/Obese Premenopausal Women: A Pilot Study
Authors: Chyu Ming-Chien , Zhang Yan , Brismée Jean-Michel , Dagda Raul Y. , Chaung Eugene , Von Bergen Vera , Doctolero Susan , Shen Chwan-Li
Published: September 2013

Various exercise interventions have been shown to benefit weight control and general health in different populations. However, very few studies have been conducted on martial arts exercise (MAE). The objective of this pilot study is to evaluate the efficacy of 12 weeks of MAE intervention on body composition, serum biomarkers and quality of life (QOL) in overweight/obese premenopausal women. We found that subjects in the MAE group did not lose body weight, while they significantly decreased fat-free mass and muscle mass as compared to those in the control group, who demonstrated an increase in these parameters. The MAE group demonstrated an increase in serum IGF-I concentration, but no change in others. MAE may be a feasible and effective approach to improve body composition and QOL in overweight/obese premenopausal women. Our study underscores the need for further studies using larger samples to establish possible benefits of MAE in various populations.
Shared Decision Making: A Fundamental Tenet in a Conceptual Framework of Integrative Healthcare Delivery
Authors: Brooks Alyssa T. , Silverman Leanne , Wallen Gwenyth R.
Published: September 2013

With the increased usage of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in the US comes a need for evidence-based and integrated care systems which encourage open communication between patients and providers. This paper introduces a conceptual framework for integrative care delivery, with shared decision making being the “connecting force” between holistic treatment and improved health outcomes for patients.
The relation of carcass physiological maturity to meat quality in the Canadian Bison Grading System
Authors: López-Campos Ó. , Aalhus J. L. , Galbraith J. , Larsen I. L. , Juárez M. , Uttaro B. , Robertson W. M.
Published: September 2013

López-Campos, Ó., Aalhus, J. L., Galbraith, J., Larsen, I. L., Juárez, M., Uttaro, B. and Robertson, W. M. 2014. The relation of carcass physiological maturity to meat quality in the Canadian Bison Grading System. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 94: 55–62. A total of 119 bull (n=62) and heifer (n=57) bison carcasses were selected to determine the effectiveness of youthful to intermediate physiological maturity [ossification at the 9th/10th/11th thoracic spinous processes (≤50%; 51–65%; 66–80%)] range to accurately classify bison carcasses with respect to quality. Carcasses were classified into three maturity groups according to ossification at the 9th/10th/11th thoracic spinous processes (≤50%; 51–65%; 66–80%). Carcass, meat quality and sensory evaluation data were then collected. Bull carcasses were significantly (P<0.0001) heavier than heifers (308.0 vs. 228.6 kg), while heifers had higher (P<0.0001) marbling scores than bulls (368 vs. 289). For both genders, ossification group had little or no impact (P>0.05) on any of the meat quality traits. Gender had an impact on the shear force values for both fresh (P<0.0001) and frozen/thawed (P=0.0002) samples, with bulls having higher values than heifers. Panellists detected differences between heifers and bulls in initial tenderness (P<0.0001; 7.11 vs. 6.27), flavour intensity (P=0.005; 5.40 vs. 5.14), amount of connective tissue (P=0.0002; 7.64 vs. 7.18), and overall tenderness (P=0.003; 7.13 vs. 6.50). Only initial juiciness was significantly affected (P=0.02) by the ossification group (5.38, 5.64 and 5.76). A gender×ossification group interaction was also detected for flavour intensity (P=0.004) and off-flavour intensity (P=0.03), but the magnitudes of the differences were in the order of one-half panel unit or less, generally below the detection of most consumers. The range of physiological maturity studied had limited effects on meat quality and support the elimination of an intermediate physiological maturity grade (51–80% ossification) from the Canadian Bison Grading System.
Effect of previous ramp exposure and regular handling on heart rate, ease of handling and behaviour of near market-weight pigs during a simulated loading
Authors: Goumon S. , Bergeron R. , Faucitano L. , Crowe T. , Connor M. L. , Gonyou H. W
Published: September 2013

Goumon, S., Bergeron, R., Faucitano, L., Crowe, T., Connor, M. L. and Gonyou, H. W. 2013. Effect of previous ramp exposure and regular handling on heart rate, ease of handling and behaviour of near market-weight pigs during a simulated loading. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 93: 461–470. The objective of this study was to assess whether stress response during simulated loading could be reduced by providing pigs with experience prior to the event. Two weeks before simulated loading, 160 Large White × Landrace near market-weight pigs were allocated to one of four treatments: physical training (EXERCISE), psychological training (RAMP), EXERCISE and RAMP trainings (BOTH) or no training (CON). Once training was completed, pigs were loaded into a simulated trailer compartment, and the metrics of behaviour, pig and handler's heart rates, loading time and handling difficulty were measured. During loading, heart rate was lower (P<0.05) for EXERCISE and BOTH pigs compared with RAMP and CON pigs. The numbers of touch/slap and push were lower (P<0.05 and P<0.05, respectively) for EXERCISE pigs compared with CON, RAMP and BOTH pigs, which did not differ (P>0.05). The number of balks was the lowest (P<0.05) for EXERCISE pigs, whereas there were no differences (P>0.05) between BOTH and CON or RAMP pigs. This study demonstrates that daily exercise, by itself, improves the ease of handling and reduces cardiovascular response, while it appears that previous exposure to a ramp had no beneficial effects.
CDC Chase hard red winter wheat
Authors: Fowler D. B.
Published: September 2013

Fowler, D. B. 2014. CDC Chase hard red winter wheat. Can. J. Plant Sci. 94: 183–186. CDC Chase is a hard red winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) that is eligible for grades of the Canada Western Red Winter (CWRW) wheat class. High grain yield potential relative to the grain quality checks, CDC Buteo and Moats, is its primary strength. It has excellent stem, leaf, and stripe rust resistance, and low physiological leaf spot and very susceptible bunt ratings. Except for minor differences, its performance has been similar to that of CDC Buteo and Moats for the remainder of the agronomic characters measured. A suitable combination of grain quality, rust resistance, and grain yield make CDC Chase a good fit for the low to intermediate precipitation regions of western Canada.
Long-term grazing effects on rough fescue grassland soils in southern British Columbia
Authors: Krzic Maja , Lamagna Sarah F. , Newman Reg F. , Bradfield Gary , Wallace Brian M.
Published: September 2013

Krzic, M., Lamagna, S. F., Newman, R. F., Bradfield, G. and Wallace, B. M. 2014. Long-term grazing effects on rough fescue grassland soils in southern British Columbia. Can. J. Soil Sci. 94: 337–345. Rough fescue (Festuca campestris Rydb.) is a highly palatable forage species with little resistance to continuous grazing. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of long-term cattle grazing on soil properties, above-ground biomass, and canopy cover of key grass species on rough fescue grasslands in the southern interior British Columbia. Soil and vegetation properties were determined on a total of six open grassland sites located at the Lac du Bois and Hamilton Mountain. At all sites, grazing use has decreased over time, with the heaviest grazing occurring prior to 1960. The long-term (25–75 yr) elimination of grazing on these semi-arid grasslands has led to greater above-ground biomass and canopy cover of rough fescue, as well as increased soil polysaccharides; however, no differences in total soil C, N, and aggregate stability were found between pastures with and without grazing. Both soil bulk density and mechanical resistance were greater on grazed plots compared with those without grazing, with differences being more pronounced at the Hamilton Mountain location. The current grazing regime has not allowed for the elimination of negative effects of overgrazing on soil compaction on these rough fescue grasslands, especially at the location that continued to be grazed more heavily (i.e., Hamilton Mountain). Our findings suggest that soils in these grazing-sensitive grasslands need more than 75 yr to fully recover from the impacts of overgrazing.
Study of Dental Treatment Received by Attenders in Government General Dental Center/Hospital Dugbe, Ibadan-Nigeria: A 5-Year Longitudinal Retrospective Study
Authors: Olaleye AO
Published: September 2013

A study to determine the different types of received patients attending the Government Dental Center/Hospital, Dugbe Ibadan, Nigeria between December 1999 and December 2004 and to see how this treatment is distributed among different sexes and age groups. Government Dental Center Dugbe, Ibadan, was the Pioneer Dental Center in the South-Western Region of Nigeria and was established in the precolonial era. The treatment pattern noticed was an alarming rate of extractions which accounts for 76.65% of all patients treated, dentures (6.96%), scalings (15.80%), filings (0.32%), medication (0.24%), checkup (0.03%) accounted for the rest. When this result is calibrated on actual treatment given (excluding medication and checkup), patients requiring extraction jumped to 76.23%. Female to male ratio was more than 2.1 while adult to underage ratio was 3.1. Thus, there is a need to urgently address this trend before the whole population is made edentulous and to embrace a preventive policy programmed in dentistry.

Clinical significance

There is an alarming rate of dental extraction which constitutes the commonest procedure carried out in this study in Nigeria.

How to cite this article

Olaleye AO. Study of Dental Treatment Received by Attenders in Government General Dental Center/ Hospital Dugbe, Ibadan-Nigeria: A 5-Year Longitudinal Retrospective Study. World J Dent 2013;4(2):86-91.
Dermatoglyphics in Dentistry: An Insight
Authors: Girish HC , Sharada P , Priya NS , Babu N Chaitanya
Published: September 2013

Fingerprint analysis for personal identification is well known, as it is unique to all individuals and remains unchanged over a life time. Now it is getting identified as a useful tool in understanding the basic questions in genetics and is emerging as an independent field in dentistry as dermatoglyphics.

Dermatoglyphics are the dermal ridge configurations on the digits, palms and soles. Significant dermatoglyphics investigations have been carried for chromosomal disorders like Down syndrome, Turner syndrome, etc.

The history, embryogenesis and topology of dermatoglyphics with emphasis on the various studies involving dermatoglyphics has been focused in this review.

How to cite this article

Priya NS, Sharada P, Chaitanya Babu N, Girish HC. Dermatoglyphics in Dentistry: An Insight. World J Dent 2013;4(2):144-147.
To Evaluate and Compare the Efficacy, Cleaning Ability of Hand and Two Rotary Systems in Root Canal Retreatment
Authors: Sachdeva Jyoti , Patil Chetan R , Thangala Venugopal , Kumar Pabbati Ravi , Krishna Akash
Published: September 2013

Aim

To evaluate and compare the efficacy, cleaning ability of hand and two rotary systems in root canal retreatment.

Methodology

Sixty extracted premolars were retreated with following systems: Group 1—ProTaper Universal retreatment files, Group 2—ProFile system, Group 3—H-file. Specimens were split longitudinally and amount of remaining gutta-percha on the canal walls was assessed using direct visual scoring with the aid of stereomicroscope. Results were statistically analyzed using ANOVA test.

Results

Completely clean root canal walls were not achieved with any of the techniques investigated. However, all three systems proved to be effective for gutta-percha removal. Significant difference was found between ProTaper universal retreatment file and H-file, and also between ProFile and H-file.

Conclusion

Under the conditions of the present study, ProTaper Universal retreatment files left significantly less guttapercha and sealer than ProFile and H-file.

Clinical significance

Rotary systems in combination with gutta-percha solvents can perform superiorly as compared to the time tested traditional hand instrumentation in root canal retreatment.

How to cite this article

Shivanand S, Patil CR, Thangala V, Kumar PR, Sachdeva J, Krishna A. To Evaluate and Compare the Efficacy, Cleaning Ability of Hand and Two Rotary Systems in Root Canal Retreatment. J Contemp Dent Pract 2013;14(3):440-444.
Comparison of Minimally Invasive and Conventional Flap Surgery for Treatment of Intrabony Periodontal Defects: A Pilot Case Controlled Study
Authors: Harrel Stephen K , Abraham Celeste M , Rivera-Hidalgo Francisco , Steffer Matthew R , Rossmann Jeffrey A , Kerns David G , Al-Hashimi Ibtisam , Solomon Eric S , Cipher Daisha J
Published: September 2013

The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical outcome of conventional flap surgery and minimally invasive surgery for the regenerative treatment of periodontal intrabony defects in a prospective, case-controlled study design. For this purpose, nine healthy individuals with 15 periodontal intrabony defects were included in the study. Patients were randomly assigned to undergo either minimally invasive surgery or conventional flap surgery for treatment of their intrabony periodontal defect. Each patient had preoperative and postoperative X-ray and measurement of periodontal parameters by a blinded examiner. All bony defects were treated with allograft consisting of enamel matrix derivative and demineralized freeze-dried bone. Results of this study indicated that both minimally invasive and conventional flap surgery improved pocket depth and clinical attachment levels after 6 months of surgery with no significant difference between the two surgeries. The overall result of our study suggests that minimally invasive surgery is as effective as conventional flap surgery in the treatment of intrabony periodontal defects and that both techniques appear to provide a comparable outcome.

How to cite this article

Steffer MR, Harrel SK, Rossmann JA, Kerns DG, Rivera-Hidalgo F, Abraham CM, Al-Hashimi I, Solomon ES, Cipher DJ. Comparison of Minimally Invasive and Conventional Flap Surgery for Treatment of Intrabony Periodontal Defects: A Pilot Case Controlled Study. J Contemp Dent 2013;3(2):61-67.
Esthetic, Functional and Psychological Management of Ectodermal Dysplasia using a Full Mouth Rehabilitation Approach
Authors: Shetty Omkar , Chablani Amit Anand
Published: September 2013

Congenital and developmental disorders often pose a challenge to the rehabilitation of patients with not only severe dental destruction but also significant psychological trauma. Patient care in such cases often forms a different genre of therapy as it requires special attention and meticulous care by the rehabilitating dentist. The remarkable impact of successful treatment in these cases not only far exceeds the dentofacial benefits but also provides profound psychosocial recuperation to these young patients. The literature has demonstrated the benefits that corrective prosthodontics has for the self-esteem and social well-being of these patients. This case report highlights the intricacies of one such full mouth rehabilitation of a young patient with ectodermal dysplasia using an interdisciplinary approach.

How to cite this article

Chablani AA, Ram SM, Shetty O. Esthetic, Functional and Psychological Management of Ectodermal Dysplasia using a Full Mouth Rehabilitation Approach. J Contemp Dent 2013;3(2):92-97.
Fast reconstruction of hyperspectral radiative transfer simulations by using small spectral subsets: application to the oxygen A band
Authors: Hollstein A. , Lindstrot R.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. Hyperspectral radiative transfer simulations are a versatile tool in remote sensing but can pose a major computational burden. We describe a simple method to construct hyperspectral simulation results by using only a small spectral subsample of the simulated wavelength range, thus leading to major speedups in such simulations. This is achieved by computing principal components for a small number of representative hyperspectral spectra and then deriving a reconstruction matrix for a specific spectral subset of channels to compute the hyperspectral data. The method is applied and discussed in detail using the example of top of atmosphere radiances in the oxygen A band, leading to speedups in the range of one to two orders of magnitude when compared to radiative transfer simulations at full spectral resolution.
Calcium carbonate corrosivity in an Alaskan inland sea
Authors: Evans W. , Mathis J. T. , Cross J. N.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. Ocean acidification is the hydrogen ion increase caused by the oceanic uptake of anthropogenic CO2, and is a focal point in marine biogeochemistry, in part, because this chemical reaction reduces calcium carbonate (CaCO3) saturation states (Ω) to levels that are corrosive (i.e. Ω ≤ 1) to shell-forming marine organisms. However, other processes can drive CaCO3 corrosivity; specifically, the addition of tidewater glacial melt. Carbonate system data collected in May and September from 2009 through 2012 in Prince William Sound (PWS), a semi-enclosed inland sea located on the south-central coast of Alaska that is ringed with fjords containing tidewater glaciers, reveal the unique impact of glacial melt on CaCO3 corrosivity. Initial limited sampling was expanded in September 2011 to span large portions of the western and central sound, and included two fjords proximal to tidewater glaciers: Icy Bay and Columbia Bay. The observed conditions in these fjords affected CaCO3 corrosivity in the upper water column (<50 m) in PWS in two ways: (1) as spring-time formation sites of mode water with near-corrosive Ω levels seen below the mixed layer across the sound, and (2) as point sources for surface plumes of glacial melt with corrosive Ω levels (Ω for aragonite and calcite down to 0.60 and 1.02, respectively) and carbon dioxide partial pressures (pCO2) well below atmospheric levels. CaCO3 corrosivity in glacial melt plumes is poorly reflected by pCO2 or pHT, indicating that either one of these carbonate parameters alone would fail to track Ω in PWS. The unique Ω and pCO2 conditions in the glacial melt plumes enhances atmospheric CO2 uptake, which, if not offset by mixing or primary productivity, would rapidly exacerbate CaCO3 corrosivity in a positive feedback. The cumulative effects of glacial melt and air-sea gas exchange are likely responsible for the seasonal widespread reduction of Ω in PWS; making PWS highly sensitive to increasing atmospheric CO2 and amplified CaCO3 corrosivity.
Quantifying drivers of chemical disequilibrium: theory and application to methane in the Earth's atmosphere
Authors: Simoncini E. , Virgo N. , Kleidon A.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. It has long been observed that Earth's atmosphere is uniquely far from its thermochemical equilibrium state in terms of its chemical composition. Studying this state of disequilibrium is important both for understanding the role that life plays in the Earth system, and for its potential role in the detection of life on exoplanets. Here we present a methodology for assessing the strength of the biogeochemical cycling processes that drive disequilibrium in planetary atmospheres. We apply it to the simultaneous presence of CH4 and O2 in Earth's atmosphere, which has long been suggested as a sign of life that could be detected remotely. Using a simplified model, we identify that the most important property to quantify is not the distance from equilibrium, but the power required to drive it. A weak driving force can maintain a high degree of disequilibrium if the residence times of the compounds involved are long; but if the disequilibrium is high and the kinetics fast, we can conclude that the disequilibrium must be driven by a substantial source of energy. Applying this to Earth's atmosphere, we show that the biotically generated portion of the power required to maintain the methane–oxygen disequilibrium is around 0.67 TW, although the uncertainty in this figure is about 10% due to uncertainty in the global CH4 production. Compared to the chemical energy generated by the biota by photosynthesis, 0.67 TW represents only a very small fraction and, perhaps surprisingly, is of a comparable magnitude to abiotically driven geochemical processes at the Earth's surface. We discuss the implications of this new approach, both in terms of enhancing our understanding of the Earth system, and in terms of its impact on the possible detection of distant photosynthetic biospheres.
An efficient method to generate a perturbed parameter ensemble of a fully coupled AOGCM without flux-adjustment
Authors: Irvine P. J. , Gregoire L. J. , Lunt D. J. , Valdes P. J.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. We present a simple method to generate a perturbed parameter ensemble (PPE) of a fully-coupled atmosphere-ocean general circulation model (AOGCM), HadCM3, without requiring flux-adjustment. The aim was to produce an ensemble that samples parametric uncertainty in some key variables and gives a plausible representation of the climate. Six atmospheric parameters, a sea-ice parameter and an ocean parameter were jointly perturbed within a reasonable range to generate an initial group of 200 members. To screen out implausible ensemble members, 20 yr pre-industrial control simulations were run and members whose temperature responses to the parameter perturbations were projected to be outside the range of 13.6 ± 2 °C, i.e. near to the observed pre-industrial global mean, were discarded. Twenty-one members, including the standard unperturbed model, were accepted, covering almost the entire span of the eight parameters, challenging the argument that without flux-adjustment parameter ranges would be unduly restricted. This ensemble was used in 2 experiments; an 800 yr pre-industrial and a 150 yr quadrupled CO2 simulation. The behaviour of the PPE for the pre-industrial control compared well to ERA-40 reanalysis data and the CMIP3 ensemble for a number of surface and atmospheric column variables with the exception of a few members in the Tropics. However, we find that members of the PPE with low values of the entrainment rate coefficient show very large increases in upper tropospheric and stratospheric water vapour concentrations in response to elevated CO2 and one member showed an implausible nonlinear climate response, and as such will be excluded from future experiments with this ensemble. The outcome of this study is a PPE of a fully-coupled AOGCM which samples parametric uncertainty and a simple methodology which would be applicable to other GCMs.
Contribution of snow and glacier melt to discharge for highly glacierised catchments in Norway
Authors: Engelhardt M. , Schuler T. V. , Andreassen L. M.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. Glacierised catchments significantly alter the streamflow regime due to snow and glacier meltwater contribution to discharge. In this study, we modelled the mass balance and discharge rates for three highly glacierised catchments (>50% glacier cover) in western Norway over the period 1961–2012. The spatial pattern of the catchments follows a gradient in climate continentality from west to east. The model uses gridded temperature and precipitation values from seNorge (http://senorge.no) as input which are available at a daily resolution. It accounts for accumulation of snow, transformation of snow to firn and ice, evaporation and melt. The model was calibrated for each catchment based on measurements of seasonal glacier mass-balances and daily discharge rates. For validation, daily melt rates were compared with measurements from sonic rangers located in the ablation zones of two of the glaciers and an uncertainty analysis was performed for the third catchment. The discharge contributions from snowmelt, glacier melt and rain were analysed with respect to spatial variations and temporal evolution. The model simulations reveal an increase of the relative contribution from glacier melt for the three catchments from less than 10% in the early 1990s to 15–30% in the late 2000s. The decline in precipitation by 10–20% in the same period was therefore overcompensated resulting in an increase of the annual discharge by 5–20%. Annual discharge sums and annual glacier melt are strongest correlated with annual and winter precipitation at the most maritime glacier and, with increased climate continentality, variations in both glacier melt contribution and annual discharge are becoming stronger correlated with variations in summer temperatures.
Risk evolution: how can changes in the built environment influence the potential loss of natural hazards?
Authors: Schwendtner B. , Papathoma-Köhle M. , Glade T.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. Alpine areas often suffer significant loss and damage due to a range of natural processes such as landslides, debris flows, snow avalanches or floods. Sealing of the soil surface, settling in endangered areas and enhanced human intervention in the natural settings, as well as socio-economic changes, increase the risk and susceptibility of built environments to natural hazards and the costs of the consequences in a spatio-temporal context. The present study examines the loss estimation of a particular debris flow event for different points in time. The event occurred in August 1987, affected the municipality Martell in South Tyrol, Italy, and resulted in a total cost of € 25 million. The approach presented in this paper focuses on the changes of the land use and settlement expansion in the area since 1954 and attempts to assess the monetary impact of a similar event, which could have happened before (1954, 1985) or following the actual event (1992, 1999, 2006). The method applied is based on the use of a vulnerability curve which was developed for the specific area, based on the documentation of the damage of the 1987 event. Based on this curve, a loss estimation was carried out in order to visualise the risk evolution in a period of 52 yr (1954 to 2006). The results show a significant increase in the extent of the built environment (number, size and value of buildings) which consequently reflect an increase of the potential overall loss through the years. The method can be used in order to assess the potential loss for future scenarios based on different spatial patterns of the built environment.
Observations of phytoplankton spring bloom onset triggered by a density front in NW Mediterranean
Authors: Olita A. , Sparnocchia S. , Cusí S. , Fazioli L. , Sorgente R. , Tintoré J. , Ribotti A.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. Phytoplankton bloom in NW Mediterranan sea is a seasonal event that mainly occurrs in a limited area (Gulf of Lyon and Provençal basin) where this phenomenon is promoted by a cyclonic circulation, strong wind-driven mixing and subsequent spring restratification. At the southern boundary of this area a density front (North Balearic Front) separating denser waters from the lighter Modified Atlantic Waters reservoir at south is suspected to trigger weaker and earlier (late winter) blooms by (a) enhanced pumping of nutrients into the euphotic layer and (b) promoting an early restratification of the water column (by frontal instabilities). A multisensor glider round trip, equipped with CTD and fluorimeter, crossing the frontal area in February–March 2013, allowed to observe the bloom triggering after the decrease of intense wind-driven turbulent convection and mixing. Satellite imagery supports and confirms in-situ observations. It was shown that frontal activity has a relevant role in the promotion and acceleration of the dynamical restratification, with a consequent biological response in terms of primary production. Restratification is necessary preconditioning factor for bloom triggering in frontal area, net of other involved mechanism promoting the bloom as the enhanced biological pump. So, like for high-latitude fronts (Taylor and Ferrari, 2011a), also for this mid-latitude oligotrophic region front seems to promote new production by dynamically enahnced restratification inhibiting mixing. Finally, we argued that Sverdrup's Critical Depth criterion seems to apply in the northern well-mixed area, where the zeroing of heat fluxes (and related turbulent convection) does not correspond to a prompt onset of the bloom (which appeared 1 month later).
Decadal trends in the Antarctic sea ice extent ultimately controlled by ice-ocean feedback
Authors: Goosse H. , Zunz V.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. The large natural variability of the Antarctic sea ice is a key characteristic of the system that might be responsible for the small positive trend in sea ice extent observed since 1979. In order to gain insight in the processes responsible for this variability, we have analysed in a control simulation performed with a coupled climate model a strong positive ice-ocean feedback that amplifies sea ice variations. When sea ice concentration increases in a region, in particular close to the ice edge, the mixed layer depth tends to decrease. This can be caused by a net inflow of ice and thus of freshwater that stabilizes the water column. Another stabilizing mechanism at interannual time scales that appears more widespread in our simulation is associated with the downward salt transport due to the seasonal cycle of ice formation: brine is released in winter when ice is formed and mixed over a deep layer while the freshwater flux caused by ice melting is included in a shallow layer, resulting in a net vertical transport of salt. Because of this stronger stratification due to the presence of sea ice, more heat is stored at depth in the ocean and the vertical oceanic heat flux is reduced, which contributes to maintain a higher ice extent. This positive feedback is not associated with a particular spatial pattern. Consequently, the spatial distribution of the trend in ice concentration is largely imposed by the wind changes that can provide the initial perturbation. A positive freshwater flux could alternatively be the initial trigger but the amplitude of the final response of the sea ice extent is finally set up by the amplification related to ice-ocean feedback. Initial conditions have also an influence as the chance to have a large increase in ice extent is higher if starting from a state characterized by a low value.
Canadian trend in surgical management of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and laser therapy from 2007-2008 to 2011-2012
Authors: Hueber Pierre-Alain , Zorn Kevin
Published: September 2013

Introduction: Clinically benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is classically associated by the progressive development of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). The incidence of bothersome LUTS is associated with age and may vary in patients over 50 years old. In many developing countries with an aging population, BPH associated with LUTS has become a major health issue. To optimiz equality of care and control of cost, there is an imperative need to examine the pattern of BPH management. The goal of this study is to capture the Canadian trend in surgical management of BPH and the use of laser therapy during the last 5 years from 2007-2008 to 2011-2012.Methods: We collected the number of transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) procedures performed in each province in Canada from the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) reports for the fiscal years (April 1st-March 31st) of 2007-2008, 2008-2009, 2009-2010, 2010-2011 and 2011-2012.Results: Overall, the total number of TURP procedures remained stable from 20 294 procedures per year in 2007 to 20 629 in 2011. In terms of distribution according to provinces, in 2011, about 40% of procedures were performed in Ontario, 20% in BC, 18 in Quebec and 8% in Alberta. These proportions between provinces have remained similar and stable between 2007 and 2011. In contrast, the number of alternative minimally invasive procedures has slowly grown from 767 interventions in 2007 to 1559 in 2011. Overall, laser procedures represented 7.6% of the total number of BPH surgeries in Canada in 2011. The contribution of laser therapy to the amount of total BPH procedures largely varied between provinces.Conclusions: The use of minimally invasive laser procedure alternatives to TURP is progressively growing. Among the novel laser therapies, HoLEP and GreenLight vaporization are the only procedures that have demonstrated equivalent outcomes compared to TURP in randomized clinical trials. Furthermore, due to shorter hospital stay, these novel laser modalities have the potential to reduce healthcare expenses for the treatment of BPH. We can infer that following the trend observed in the United States, the number of laser therapies for BPH in Canada may increase significantly during the coming years.
Economic evaluation of the chronic hepatitis B treatment strategies in Italy
Authors: Iannazzo Sergio , Coco Barbara , Brunetto Maurizia , Rossetti Francesca , Caputo Antonietta , De Francesco Maria , Bonino Ferruccio
Published: September 2013

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Pharmacological approaches available in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) are based on 48-weeks finite course of peg-interferon (PEG-IFN) or continuous administration of nucleoside analogues. Recent studies gave way to early identification of non-responders to peg-interferon with a stopping rule based on virologic/serologic markers at week 12. A pharmacoeconomic simulation model was developed to support the economic evaluation of HBeAg-negative CHB treatment strategies, which either involve first line peg-interferon with stopping rule and switch to current most effective analogue entecavir or tenofovir, or nucleosides analogues in first line treatment. This model showed a good cost-effectiveness profile of the first line treatment with peg-interferon. Aim of the present study was the estimation of the impact of a wide adoption of a first line with PEG-IFN and the stopping rule on total overall cost related to CHB over the lifetime of patients in Italy.METHODS: The Markov model was developed to perform a lifetime simulation of the disease progression considering the following health-related states: active CHB, virologic response, HBsAg clearance, compensated cirrhosis with active CHB, compensated cirrhosis with virologic response, decompensated cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, liver transplant, post-liver transplant and death. The outcomes provided by the model were average survival, quality-adjusted life years (QALY) and costs, calculated from the Italian National Health Service (SSN) perspective. A “current” mix of treatments, where 80% patients received ETV or TDF in first-line, was compared with an “hypothetical” mix defined by a 100% adoption of a PEG-IFN first-line with the stopping rule, to estimate the impact on total lifetime CHB-related costs for a cohort of 100 HBeAg-negative CHB patients in Italy.RESULTS: Results obtained from the evaluation of overall total treatment cost over patients’ lifetime appeared to confirm the cost-effectiveness of peg-interferon previously assessed. Lifetime overall total cost resulted significantly lower with the “hypothetical” treatment mix as compared to the “current” mix.. In fact, estimated lifetime overall total costs for the former and latter scenario were equal to €7,239,050 and €9,060,150 respectively, thus generating a saving of approximately 20% associated to CHB treatment with first-line peg-interferon.CONCLUSION: Based on the results obtained from the economic evaluation of the CHB treatment strategies, first-line peg-interferon associated with the stopping rule and switch to nucleoside analogues consistently represents a convenient strategy on both the clinical and economic perspective.
L’éducation à l’épreuve des activités juvéniles : de nouveaux défis professionnels
Authors: Barrère Anne
Published: September 2013

L’article s’interroge sur la manière dont l’institution scolaire est aujourd’hui mise en question dans son projet de formation par les activités juvéniles, dans une sphère extrascolaire où ils jouissent d’une grande autonomie. Ces activités électives (numériques, musicales, sportives…) réalisent une éducation informelle où les adolescents forgent leur caractère, alors même que l’école n’a plus de modèle lisible de projet éducatif. À partir d’une enquête qualitative réalisée auprès d’une centaine d’adolescents français, on dégagera différentes épreuves qui forment les adolescents dans cette sphère, avant de montrer comment elles mettent en question les finalités, mais aussi les modalités de fonctionnement de l’école.
Regard de finissants en enseignement sur les finalités de l’école québécoise
Authors: Lacourse France
Published: September 2013

L’éducation étant un bien collectif, il enrésulte de nombreux débats autour de l’orientationà donner au système éducatif, par voie deconséquence à la formation initiale des enseignants.Comme la mise en oeuvre de ces finalités passe par les futursenseignants, force est de réfléchir à leursperceptions sur les finalités de l’école et de sesdéfis. Nous abordons dans les lignes qui suivent deséléments de la problématique de la réformeéducative et ses enjeux avec nos objectifs de recherche, laméthodologie d’enquête utilisée parl’équipe APECS et quelques référencesconceptuelles. Des résultats partiels d’une enquêtemenée auprès de finissants du baccalauréat enenseignement au préscolaire et primaire (BEPP) puis enenseignement au secondaire (BES) seront présentés. Leursperceptions des défis de l’écolequébécoise et les défis des enseignants serontanalysées. La conclusion ouvrira sur des questions à nepas laisser au hasard.
Autorité et modernité
Authors: Prairat Eirick
Published: September 2013

Il y a moins une crise qu’une érosion de l’autorité éducative. Les deux premières sections de ce texte s’attachent à préciser l’idée d’autorité éducative et à réfuter les thèses critiques, d’inspiration psychologique ou pédagogique, qui entendent purifier l’acte éducatif de toute forme d’autorité. Ces approches, qui assimilent souvent l’autorité à une forme de coercition, minorent l’enjeu anthropologique qui est au coeur du procès éducatif. Si l’autorité est nécessaire, c’est tout simplement parce que l’on ne s’autorise jamais seul à être contemporain du monde. Dans la troisième et dernière section, nous présentons trois lectures pour comprendre ce phénomène d’érosion.