bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reconciling the signal and noise of atmospheric warming on decadal timescales
Authors: Jones Roger N. , Ricketts James H.
Published: March 2017

Abstract. Interactions between externally forced and internally generated climate variations on decadal timescales is a major determinant of changing climate risk. Severe testing is applied to observed global and regional surface and satellite temperatures and modelled surface temperatures to determine whether these interactions are independent, as in the traditional signal-to-noise model, or whether they interact, resulting in step-like warming. The multistep bivariate test is used to detect step changes in temperature data. The resulting data are then subject to six tests designed to distinguish between the two statistical hypotheses, hstep and htrend. Test 1: since the mid-20th century, most observed warming has taken place in four events: in 1979/80 and 1997/98 at the global scale, 1988/89 in the Northern Hemisphere and 1968–70 in the Southern Hemisphere. Temperature is more step-like than trend-like on a regional basis. Satellite temperature is more step-like than surface temperature. Warming from internal trends is less than 40 % of the total for four of five global records tested (1880–2013/14). Test 2: correlations between step-change frequency in observations and models (1880–2005) are 0.32 (CMIP3) and 0.34 (CMIP5). For the period 1950–2005, grouping selected events (1963/64, 1968–70, 1976/77, 1979/80, 1987/88 and 1996–98), the correlation increases to 0.78. Test 3: steps and shifts (steps minus internal trends) from a 107-member climate model ensemble (2006–2095) explain total warming and equilibrium climate sensitivity better than internal trends. Test 4: in three regions tested, the change between stationary and non-stationary temperatures is step-like and attributable to external forcing. Test 5: step-like changes are also present in tide gauge observations, rainfall, ocean heat content and related variables. Test 6: across a selection of tests, a simple stepladder model better represents the internal structures of warming than a simple trend, providing strong evidence that the climate system is exhibiting complex system behaviour on decadal timescales. This model indicates that in situ warming of the atmosphere does not occur; instead, a store-and-release mechanism from the ocean to the atmosphere is proposed. It is physically plausible and theoretically sound. The presence of step-like – rather than gradual – warming is important information for characterising and managing future climate risk.
Validity, precision and limitations of seismic rockfall monitoring
Authors: Dietze Michael , Mohadjer Solmaz , Turowski Jens M. , Ehlers Todd A. , Hovius Niels
Published: March 2017

Abstract. Rockfall in deglaciated mountain valleys is perhaps the most important post-glacial geomorphic process for determining the rates and patterns of valley wall erosion. Furthermore, rockfall poses a significant hazard to inhabitants and motivates the monitoring for rockfall occurrence in populated areas. Traditional rockfall detection methods, such as aerial photography and Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS) data evaluation provide constraints on the location and released volume of rock, but have limitations due to significant time lags or integration times between surveys, and deliver limited information on rockfall triggering mechanisms and the dynamics of individual events. Environmental seismology, the study of seismic signals emitted by processes at the Earth's surface, provides a complementary solution to these shortcomings. This approach is limited amongst others by the strength of the signals emitted by a source and their transformation and attenuation towards receivers. To test the ability of seismic methods to identify and locate small rockfalls, and to characterise their dynamics, we surveyed a 2.16 km2 large, near vertical cliff section of the Lauterbrunnen Valley in the Swiss Alps with a TLS and six broadband seismometers. During 37 days in autumn 2014, ten TLS-detected rockfalls with volumes ranging from 0.053 ± 0.004 to 2.338 ± 0.085 m3 were independently detected and located by the seismic approach, with a deviation of 81−29+59 m (about 7 % of the average inter-station distance of the seismometer network). Further potential rockfalls were detected outside the TLS-surveyed cliff area. The onset of individual events can be determined within a few milliseconds, and their dynamics can be resolved into distinct phases, such as detachment, free fall, intermittent impact, fragmentation, arrival at the talus slope and subsequent slope activity. The small rockfall volumes in this area require significant supervision during data processing: 2175 initially picked potential events reduced to 511 potential events after applying automatic rejection criteria. The 511 events needed to be inspected manually to reveal 19 short earthquakes and 37 potential rockfalls, including the ten TLS-detected events. Rockfalls do not show a relationship to released seismic energy or peak amplitude at this spatial scale due to the dominance of process-inherent factors, such as fall height, degree of fragmentation and distribution, and subsequent talus slope activity. The combination of TLS and environmental seismology provides a detailed validation of seismic detection of small volume rockfalls, and revealed unprecedented temporal, spatial and geometric details about rockfalls in steep mountainous terrain.
An automatic DI-flux at the Livingston Island Geomagnetic Observatory, Antarctica: requirements and lessons learnt
Authors: Marsal Santiago , Curto Juan José , Torta Joan Miquel , Gonsette Alexandre , Favà Vicent , Rasson Jean , Ibañez Miquel , Cid Òscar
Published: March 2017

Abstract. The DI-flux, consisting of a fluxgate magnetometer bar coupled with a theodolite, is used for the absolute manual measurement of the magnetic field angles in most ground-based observatories world-wide. Commercial solutions for an automated DI-flux have recently been developed by the Royal Meteorological Institute of Belgium (RMI), and are practically reduced to the AutoDIF and its variant, the GyroDIF. In this article, we analyse the pros and cons of both instruments in terms of its suitability for installation at the partially manned geomagnetic observatory of Livingston Island, Antarctica. We conclude that the GyroDIF, even if less accurate and more power demanding, is more suitable than the AutoDIF for harsh conditions due to its simpler necessary infrastructure. Power constraints in the Spanish Antarctic Station during the unmanned season impose an energy-efficient design of the thermally regulated box housing the instrument, as well as a thorough power management. Our experiences can benefit the geomagnetic community, who often faces similar challenges.
Monitoring infiltration and subsurface stormflow in layered slope
deposits with 3D ERT and hydrometric measurements – the
capillary barrier effect as crucial factor
Authors: Hübner Rico , Günther Thomas , Heller Katja , Noell Ursula , Kleber Arno
Published: March 2017

Abstract. Identifying principles of water movement in the shallow subsurface is crucial for adequate process-based hydrological models. Hillslopes are the essential interface for water movement in catchments. The shallow subsurface on slopes typically consist of different layers with varying characteristics. The aim of this study was to draw conclusion about the infiltration behaviour, to identify water flow pathways and derive general validity about the water movement on a hillslope with periglacial slope deposits (cover beds), where the layers differ in their sedimentological and hydrological properties. Especially the described varying influence of the basal layer (LB) as impeding layer on the one hand and as a remarkable pathway for rapid subsurface stormflow on the other. We used a time lapse 3D ERT approach combined with punctual hydrometric data to trace the spreading and the progression of an irrigation plume in layered slope deposits during two irrigation experiments. This multi-technical approach enables us to connect the high spatial resolution of the 3D ERT with the high temporal resolution of the hydrometric devices. Infiltration through the uppermost layer was dominated by preferential flow, whereas the water flow in the deeper layers was mainly matrix flow. Subsurface stormflow due to impeding characteristic of the underlying layer occurs in form of "organic layer interflow" and at the interface to the first basal layer (LB1). However, the main driving factor for subsurface stormflow is the formation of a capillary barrier at the interface to the second basal layer (LB2). The capillary barrier prevents water from entering the deeper layer under unsaturated conditions and diverts the seepage water according to the slope inclination. With higher saturation the capillary barrier breaks down and water reaches the highly conductive deeper layer. This highlights the importance of the capillary barrier effect for the prevention or activation of different flow pathways under variable hydrological conditions.
Projecting the risk of damage to reef-lined coasts due to intensified tropical cyclones and sea level rise in Palau to 2100
Authors: Hongo Chuki , Kurihara Haruko , Golbuu Yimnang
Published: March 2017

Abstract. Tropical cyclones (TCs), sea level rise (SLR), and storm surges cause major problems including beach erosion, saltwater intrusion into groundwater, and damage to infrastructure in coastal areas. The magnitude and extent of damage is predicted to increase as a consequence of future climate change and local factors. Upward reef growth has attracted attention for its role as a natural breakwater able to reduce the risks of natural disasters to coastal communities. However, projections of change in the risk to coastal reefs under conditions of intensified TCs, SLR, and storm surges are poorly quantified. In this study we assessed the current status of natural breakwaters on Melekeok reef in the Palau Islands. Based on wave simulations we predicted the potential effects on the reef by 2100 of intensified TCs (significant wave height at the outer ocean = 8.7–11.0 m; significant wave period at the outer ocean = 13–15 s), SLR (0.24–0.98 m), and storm surge. The simulation was conducted for two reef condition scenarios: a degraded reef and a healthy reef. Analyses of reef growth based on drillcores enabled an assessment of the coral community and rate of reef production that are necessary to reduce the risk to the coast of TCs, SLR, and storm surges. The reef is currently highly effective in dissipating incoming waves, with the reef crest to the upper reef slope reducing wave height by 75 %, and the entire reef dissipating waves by 88 % of the incident wave height. However, our calculations show that under intensified TCs, SLR, and storm surges, by 2100 significant wave heights at the reef flat will increase from 1.05–1.24 m at present to 2.14 m if reefs are degraded. Similarly, by 2100 the sea level at the shoreline will increase from 0.86–2.10 m at present to 1.19–3.45 m if reefs are degraded. These predicted changes will probably cause beach erosion, saltwater intrusion into groundwater, and damage to infrastructure. However, our simulation indicates that reef growth reduces the wave height by a maximum of 0.44 m at the reef flat by 2100. These findings emphasize the need for future reef formation to reduce the damaging effects of waves on the coastline. Corymbose Acropora corals will be key to reducing such effects, and 2.6–5.8 kg CaCO3/m2/y will be required to build the reef by 2100. If the RCP 8.5 scenario is realized by 2100, an increase in coral cover of > 8 % will be needed to reduce the impact of waves on the coastline. The use of coral reef growth to reduce disaster risk will be more cost-effective than building artificial barriers. Benefits in addition to reducing disaster risk include the ecological services provided by reefs, and marine products and tourism. Research of the type described here will be required to advise policy development directed at disaster prevention for small island nations, and for developing and developed countries.
Spatial and radiometric characterization of multi-spectrum satellite images through multi-fractal analysis
Authors: Alonso Carmelo , Tarquis Ana M. , Zúñiga Ignacio , Benito Rosa M.
Published: March 2017

Abstract. Several studies have shown that vegetation indexes can be used to estimate root zone soil moisture. Earth surface images, obtained by high-resolution satellites, presently give a lot of information on these indexes, based on the data of several wavelengths. Because of the potential capacity for systematic observations at various scales, remote sensing technology extends the possible data archives from the present time to several decades back. Because of this advantage, enormous efforts have been made by researchers and application specialists to delineate vegetation indexes from local scale to global scale by applying remote sensing imagery. In this work, four band images have been considered, which are involved in these vegetation indexes, and were taken by satellites Ikonos-2 and Landsat-7 of the same geographic location, to study the effect of both spatial (pixel size) and radiometric (number of bits coding the image) resolution on these wavelength bands as well as two vegetation indexes: the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and the Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI). In order to do so, a multi-fractal analysis of these multi-spectral images was applied in each of these bands and the two indexes derived. The results showed that spatial resolution has a similar scaling effect in the four bands, but radiometric resolution has a larger influence in blue and green bands than in red and near-infrared bands. The NDVI showed a higher sensitivity to the radiometric resolution than EVI. Both were equally affected by the spatial resolution. From both factors, the spatial resolution has a major impact in the multi-fractal spectrum for all the bands and the vegetation indexes. This information should be taken in to account when vegetation indexes based on different satellite sensors are obtained.
Dynamic response of an Arctic epishelf lake to seasonal and long-term forcing: implications for ice shelf thickness
Authors: Hamilton Andrew K. , Laval Bernard E. , Mueller Derek R. , Vincent Warwick F. , Copland Luke
Published: March 2017

Abstract. Changes in the depth of the freshwater-seawater interface in epishelf lakes have been used to infer long-term changes in the thickness of ice shelves, however, little is known about the dynamics of epishelf lakes and what other factors may influence their depth. Continuous observations collected between 2011 and 2014 in the Milne Fiord epishelf lake, in the Canadian Arctic, showed that the depth of the halocline varied seasonally by up to 3.3 m, which was comparable to interannual variability. The seasonal depth variation was controlled by the magnitude of surface meltwater inflow and the hydraulics of the inferred outflow pathway, a narrow basal channel in the Milne Ice Shelf. When seasonal variation and an episodic mixing of the halocline were accounted for, long-term records of depth indicated there was no significant change in thickness of ice along the basal channel from 1983 to 2004, followed by a period of steady thinning at 0.50 m a-1 between 2004 and 2011. Rapid thinning at 1.15 m a-1 then occurred from 2011 to 2014, corresponded to a period of warming regional air temperatures. Continued warming is expected to lead to the breakup of the ice shelf and the imminent loss of the last known epishelf lake in the Arctic.
Discovery and characterization of submarine groundwater
discharge in the Siberian Arctic seas: A case study in Buor-Khaya
Gulf, Laptev Sea
Authors: Charkin Alexander N. , Rutgers van der Loeff Michiel , Shakhova Natalia E. , Gustafsson Örjan , Dudarev Oleg V. , Cherepnev Maxim S. , Salyuk Anatoly N. , Koshurnikov Andrey V. , Spivak Eduard A. , Gunar Alexey Y. , Semiletov Igor P.
Published: March 2017

Abstract. It has been suggested that increasing freshwater discharge to the Arctic Ocean may also occur as submarine groundwater discharge (SGD), yet there are no direct observations of this phenomenon in the Arctic shelf seas. This study tests the hypothesis that SGD does exist in the Siberian-Arctic shelf seas but its dynamics may be largely controlled by complicated geocryological conditions such as permafrost. The field-observational approach in the southeast Laptev Sea used a combination of hydrological (temperature, salinity), geological (bottom sediment drilling, geoelectric surveys) and geochemical (224Ra, 223Ra and 222Rn) techniques. Active SGD was documented in the vicinity of the Lena River delta with two different operational modes. In the first system, groundwater discharges through tectonogenic permafrost talik zones was registered in both wintertime and summertime seasons. The second SGD mechanism was cryogenic squeezing out of brine and water-soluble salts detected on the periphery of ice hummocks in the wintertime season. The proposed mechanisms of groundwater transport and discharge in the arctic land-shelf system is elaborated. Through salinity versus 224Ra and 224Ra/223Ra diagrams, the three main SGD-influenced water masses were identified and their end-member composition was constrained. Further studies should apply these techniques to a broader scale with the objective to reach an estimate of the relative importance of the SGD transport vector relative to surface freshwater discharge for both the water balance and aquatic components such as dissolved organic carbon, carbon dioxide, methane, and nutrients.
DESENHANDO O CERRADO: DA INVISIBILIDADE À LUCRATIVIDADE
Authors: Silva Lorranne Gomes da , Chaveiro Eguimar Felício
Published: March 2017

Esse artigo discute algumas particularidades do Cerrado goiano, apresentando como esse bioma já foi degradado no estado, destacando o uso e apropriação distinta entre as regiões, evidenciando dois casos específicos a cidade de Minaçu no norte goiano e a cidade de Rio Verde no sudoeste goiano. A escolha dessas cidades se deu a partir de trabalhos de campo. Busca-se compreender sobre o custo que é para o Cerrado sair da invisibilidade para a lucratividade. Goiás tornou-se um Estado integrado às demandas do mercado internacional e, de fato, conseguiu inserir a globalização. A inserção significante do Estado na economia brasileira é representada, pela valoração do bioma Cerrado (antes invisível), que a partir de 1930 recebeu inúmeros investimentos e foi reconhecido como possuidor de terras planas e chapadões, tornando viável a mecanização, com uso intensivo de máquinas agrícolas e adaptação das sementes ao solo, com o auxílio da engenharia genética. Assim, o Cerrado hoje encontra-se resignificado em um palco de disputas territoriais de várias ordens desde quando saiu do desprezo para a valoração econômica. Neste contexto o que valoriza também destrói drasticamente, tornando a razão do desprezo e a razão da destruição uma única visão economicista do Cerrado.
O SISTEMA CLIMA URBANO DA ZONA OESTE/RJ: UMA CONTRIBUIÇÃO AO MONITORAMENTO E ANÁLISE EM SISTEMAS AMBIENTAIS
Authors: Lucena Andrews José de
Published: March 2017

Neste artigo é descrito o sistema da região da Zona Oeste na cidade do Rio de Janeiro na perspectiva do conceito de sistemas ambientais proposto por Christofoletti (1999) e do Sistema Clima Urbano (SCU) sugerido por Monteiro (1976). Nesta interface, constrói-se um modelo teórico denominado de Sistema Clima Urbano da Zona Oeste, em que se discutem os canais de entrada e saída do sistema, bem como suas variáveis e fatores controladores. É demonstrada, ainda, a situação de equilíbrio no interior do sistema, seus tipos e conceitos associados.
ADAPTAÇÕES METODOLÓGICAS INTER-ESCALARES DE ZONEAMENTOS AMBIENTAIS A BACIAS HIDROGRÁFICAS AGRÁRIAS DO SUDESTE BRASILEIRO
Authors: Vasconcelos Vitor Vieira , Hadad Renato Moreira , Martins Junior Paulo Pereira
Published: March 2017

O Zoneamentos Ambientais de frentes agrícolas brasileiras tem enfocado principalmente estudos de macro-escala sobre as frentes pioneiras sobre as áreas nativas do Centro-Oeste e Norte do Brasil. Contudo, vários problemas de ordenamento territorial e gestão de recursos naturais têm ocorrido em frentes agrícolas do sudeste brasileiro, apresentando particularidades sistêmicas de funcionamento. O presente artigo pretende investigar como o Zoneamento Ecológico-Econômico – ZEE -, principal instrumento de planejamento territorial brasileiro, pode adaptar sua metodologia para estudar fidedignamente as bacias hidrográficas agrárias do Sudeste do Brasil.
ANÁLISE MULTITEMPORAL DA COBERTURA DO SOLO DO MUNICÍPIO DE PONTA PORÃ, MATO GROSSO DO SUL, DE 1966 A 2006?
Authors: Antunes Klais Thalita Beatriz , Dalmas Fabricio Bau , Lastoria Giancarlo , Paranhos Filho Antonio Conceição
Published: March 2017

Neste trabalho avaliou-se a evolução do uso e ocupação do solo em Ponta Porã – MS no período compreendido entre 1966 e 2006, tendo como base o uso de geotecnologias e dados de sensoriamento remoto, permitindo o monitoramento ambiental dos processos antrópicos. Ponta Porã é cidade limítrofe a oeste com a República Federativa do Paraguai, formando uma conurbação internacional com Pedro Juan Caballero, isso confere a região vantagens relacionadas à logística e a boas condições para o desenvolvimento econômico. Para a análise multitemporal da cobertura do solo foram utilizadas as cartas topográficas do DSG/IBGE da década de 1960 e imagens de satélite Landsat de 1989 e 2006. Na classificação da cobertura do solo utilizou-se a legenda do Projeto CORINE. Entre 1966 e 1989 houve um decréscimo nas áreas ocupadas por áreas naturais de 24,15% para 15,94% da superfície do município e um acréscimo entre 1989 e 2006, para 18,83%. Considerando o período total (1966 - 2006), a evolução do uso e ocupação do solo decorrente da ação antrópica permaneceu estável, pois houve apenas um decréscimo de 5,32% de áreas naturais.
UMA ANALISE DA MAIOR EPIDEMIA DE DENGUE CLÁSSICA ACONTECIDA NA CIDADE DE CUIABÁ-MT
Authors: Sousa Romário Rosa de , Nascimento José Abel , Silva Blatt Moema Couto
Published: March 2017

O primeiro caso de dengue clássica em Cuiabá-MT foi registrado no ano de 1991, mas a maior epidemia aconteceu no ano de 2009, quando foram registrados aproximadamente 11.207(onze mil duzentos e sete) casos notificados. Desse total, 90% foram de dengue clássica, 7% referiram-se aos casos graves e 3% referiram-se aos casos de óbito. Considerando esses dados, este trabalho teve como objetivo principal analisar a maior epidemia de dengue clássica acontecida na cidade de Cuiabá-MT, no ano de 2009. Os procedimentos metodológicos adotados se pautaram em 4 (quatro) etapas distintas, sendo a primeira etapa destinada à obtenção dos dados meteorológicos junto ao 9ºDISME/INMET; a segunda etapa destinada à coleta de dados cedidos pela Secretaria Municipal de Saúde – SMS/Centro de Controle de Zoonoses (CCZ)  de Cuiabá – MT; a terceira etapa dedicada à obtenção dos dados via sistema SINAN/DATASUS; e a quarta etapa correspondeu às análises e discussões sobre o tema. Constatou-se, na análise empreendida, que nos meses de abril, com 4.534, e maio, com 3.121 casos, foram registrados os maiores números de notificações relacionados à dengue clássica na cidade de Cuiabá-MT, coincidindo este período com o início do outono, imediatamente posterior ao período chuvoso, verão. Os dados diminuíram bruscamente nos meses de junho a outubro, voltando a aumentar as confirmações de dengue nos meses de novembro e dezembro. Dessa forma, visualizou-se que os casos de dengue clássica variam de acordo com as condições atmosféricas.
Information Bodies: Computational Anxiety in Neal Stephenson'sSnow Crash
Authors: Joshua Judy
Published: March 2017

Cognitive science-based enactive theories of perception afford surprising insight onto a less examined component of perceptual experience: perceptual entrainment through the embodied encounter with tools. My analysis of the body/tool/perception nexus in Neal Stephenson's Snow Crash (1992) introduces the concept of perceptual entrainment in two steps: first I explain Alva Noë's claim that perception is virtual—that it takes place as an active process of environmental investigation rather than through computer-processing-like brain activity. I then take Noë's approach to perception a step further by examining how tool use directs and amplifies our perceptual focus. I argue that in Snow Crash, tools contain within them ideologies of repression that emerge precisely at the “technological interface,” moments when characters in the novel engage with tools that interpellate them, enable them to wield power, or blur the boundaries between control and abjection. This article analyzes the novel's computational anxiety—the fear of loss of self identity via an informational/mathematical determinism mapped by the tool that entrains our perception.
Silk Roads in the Kingdom of Bhutan and the Development of a National Heritage Inventory
Authors: Williams Tim
Published: March 2017

A UNESCO project, Support for the Preparation for the World Heritage Serial Nomination of the Silk Roads in South Asia, afforded the opportunity to research evidence for Silk Roads exchange in South Asia. The first part of the paper explores the challenges of archaeology in the Kingdom of Bhutan, located on the southern slopes of the eastern Himalayas. GIS-based approaches to model earlier settlement patterns and trade routes are considered. This led to a discussion with Bhutanese colleagues, in the Division for Conservation of Heritage Sites (DCHS), regarding the need for a digital national heritage inventory: to help manage and protect heritage resources, and to improve the communication of the rich heritage of the country to its people. The second part of this paper explores some of the issues around that debate, and the steps taken to implement the chosen solution: the Getty Conservation Institute/World Monuments Fund ARCHES heritage inventory system.
Is testis-sparing surgery safe in small testicular masses? Results of a multicentre study
Authors: Keske Murat , Canda Abdullah Erdem , Yalcin Serdar , Kilicarslan Aydan , Kibar Yusuf , Tuygun Can , Onder Evrim , Atmaca Ali Fuat , Yildirim Asif , Ozkanli Sidika Seyma , Kandemir Olcay , Kargi Taner , Sar Mehmet , Tugcu Volkan , Resorlu Berkan , Aslan Yilmaz , Sarikaya Selcuk , Boylu Ugur , Cicek Ali Fuat , Basar Halil , Tuncel Altug , Balbay Mevlana Derya
Published: March 2017

Introduction: Our goal was to evaluate benign and malignant lesions and testicular intraepithelial neoplasia (TIN) in the neighbouring normal- appearing testis tissue in men who underwent radical orchiectomy for testicular mass with a pathologic tumour size of ≤3cm.Methods: In this retrospective, multicentre study, data of 252 patients from 11 different institutions were included. Patients were divided into three groups based on tumour size: Group 1 (0‒1 cm; n=35), Group 2 (1.1‒2 cm; n=99), and Group 3 (2.1‒3 cm; n=118). Benign lesions and TIN were sought in the neighbouring testicular tissue and compared between groups.Results: Mean patient age was 32.3 years. Benign lesions were reported in 54.3%, 33.3%, and 14.4% of Groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively (p<0.05 between groups). TIN was detected in 20%, 42.4%, and 41.5% of Groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively (p<0.05 for Group 1 vs. Groups 2 and 3; p>0.05 for Groups 2 vs. 3). Multifocality was detected in 8.6%, 4%, and 0% of Groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively (p<0.05 for both Group 1 vs. Group3 and for Group 2 vs. Group 3; p>0.05 for Group 1 vs. Group 2). A tumour cutoff size of 1.5 cm was found to be significant for detecting benign tumour. TIN and multifocality rates were similar in patients with a tumour size of ≤1.5 vs.>1.5 cm (p>0.05).Conclusions: Benign lesions and TIN in the neighbouring testis were significantly decreased and multifocality was increased in patients with a tumour mass size of ≤1 cm. Testis-sparing surgery should be performed with caution and a safety rim of normal tissue should also be excised.
Impact of preoperative and postoperative membranous urethral length measured by 3 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging on urinary continence recovery after robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy
Authors: Song Wan , Kim Chan Kyo , Park Byung Kwan , Jeon Hwang Gyun , Jeong Byong Chang , Seo Seong Il , Jeon Seong Soo , Choi Han Yong , Lee Hyun Moo
Published: March 2017

Introduction: We sought to investigate the impact of preoperative and postoperative membranous urethral length (MUL) on urinary continence using 3 Tesla (3T) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) after robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP).Methods: Between 2008 and 2013, 190 men with RARP underwent preoperative and postoperative MRI. Patients who received adjuvant radiotherapy or who were lost to followup were excluded, leaving 186 patients eligible for analysis. Preoperative MUL was estimated from the prostate apex to the penile bulb, while postoperative MUL was estimated from the bladder neck to penile bulb. Patients with no pads or protection were considered to have complete continence. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify predictors associated with urinary incontinence at six and 12 months.Results: Age was commonly associated with urinary incontinence at six and 12 months. In addition, diabetes mellitus (DM) was another factor associated with urinary incontinence at 12 months. When adjusting these variables, preoperative MUL ≤16 mm (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01‒1.14; p=0.022), postoperative MUL ≤14 mm (95% CI 1.16‒9.80; p=0.025) and percent change of MUL >18% (95% CI 1.17‒7.23; p=0.021) were significantly associated with urinary incontinence at six months. However, at 12 months, preoperative MUL ≤13.5 mm (95% CI 1.85‒19.21; p=0.003) and postoperative MUL ≤13 mm (95% CI 1.24‒13.84; p=0.021) had impacts on urinary incontinence, but not percent change of MUL.Conclusions: Preoperative and postoperative MUL were significantly associated with urinary continence recovery after RARP. Therefore, efforts to preserve MUL are highly recommended during surgery for optimal continence outcomes after RARP.
Digital models and plaster casts in dental technology and orthodontics: A literature review
Authors: Kropiwnicka Anna , Kowalewska-Jarosz Beata , Sierpińska Teresa
Published: March 2017

Nowadays biotechnology can offer vast opportunities for maxillofacial surgery. The new prostheses and individual face implants can be produced at the chairside. A great problem for dental and maxillofacial surgeon is the reconstruction of lost bone. Bone loss may be caused by resorption, trauma or resection after surgical treatment of tumours. Rehabilitation of the majority of these patients requires a bone graft. Lack of general protocol and a multitude of materials used to rebuild bony tissue often makes it difficult to choose the best method.
In the present study, xenograft of bovine bone granulate (applied with collagen memebrane) has been compared with autogenous bone graft. The statistical analysis was performed to compare the level of bone loss following these procedures with a possibility of introducing dental implants in reconstructed tissue.
A total of 41 patients (26 women and 15 men) underwent reconstruction in 62 treatment sites. 13 reconstructions were performed with bovine bone xenograft and 49 with autogenous bone graft. The level of bone loss was lower in cases where bovine bone substitute material was applied, and thus gave better possibility to perform dental implant treatment.
Oral health-related quality of life in late-life depression patients treated prosthetically
Authors: Gałczyńska-Rusin Małgorzata , Koczorowski Ryszard
Published: March 2017

Introduction. Due to the ageing of the human population, dentists provide care for an increasing number of elderly patients suffering from depression.
Aim of the study. To examine the relationship between depression signs, oral health-related quality of life and adaptation to new prosthetic restorations in elderly patients. The study involved 150 patients of the Gerodontology Clinic after prosthetic rehabilitation with removable dentures. The Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) and the General Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI) were used in questionnaire examinations.
Results. Signs of depression were found in 24.6% of the patients. This group showed a significantly lower level of satisfaction with their life quality compared to individuals without depression signs and were less adaptable to new prosthetic restorations.
Conclusions. Late-life depression (LLD) may considerably affect the outcome of prosthetic treatment, regardless of the type and quality of the restoration provided, by lowering the level of perceived life quality connected with adaptation to new dentures.
Development and Validation of a Rapid LC-MS/MS Method for Simultaneous Determination of Kaempferol and Quercetin in Thespesia populnea Extract
Authors: Panchal Hiteksha , Shah Mamta B
Published: March 2017

In this study, a simple and rapid LC with tandem MS method was developed and validated for the simultaneous determination of kaempferol and quercetin in Thespesia populnea extract. The compounds were eluted using a Gemini C18 column (50 × 2.0 mm, 3 μm), with the mobile phase consisting of acetonitrile–0.3% formic acid in water at the flow rate of 0.400 mL/min. The assay exhibited a linear dynamic range of 25–2500 ng/mL for both kaempferol and quercetin. The values for intra- and interday precision and accuracy were well within the generally accepted criteria for analytical methods (<15%). Selectivity, linearity, LOD, LOQ, accuracy, and precision were evaluated for both analytes. The proposed method is accurate and sensitive and can be used for the routine quantification of kaempferol and quercetin in the herbal extract and in polyherbal formulations.
Demographics of Tenure-Stream Music Faculty in Canadian Post-secondary Institutions
Authors: Bergonzi Louis , Yerichuk Deanna , Galway Kiera , Gould Elizabeth
Published: March 2017

This study provides a snapshot of tenure at Canadian post-secondary music institutions, with a particular focus on gender and race/ethnicity. The data show tenure has been granted at high rates over a five-year period, and that women are no more or less likely to achieve tenure than men. However, more men than women hold both tenured and tenure-track positions, at a ratio of 2:1. The sample size of non-white faculty was not large enough to conduct statistical analyses about tenure rates in relation to race/ethnicity, although the extremely low rates of non-white tenure-track faculty suggest that diversity remains a concern in post-secondary music programs.
Ethics and Musical Language: A Gramscian Reading of Dallapiccola’s Liriche greche and Their Influence
Authors: Samuel Jamuna
Published: March 2017

Luigi Dallapiccola (1904–75)—a pioneering figure as serialist, composer of protest music, and trailblazer for the avant-garde—wrote hisGreek Lyricssong cycle (1942–5) as an escape from wartime anxiety. I locate theLyricswithin a nexus of technique, text setting, and ethical engagement. That complex resonated with the younger composers Berio, Nono, and Maderna, each responding in the postwar period with settings from the same collection, Quasimodo’s 1940 free translation of classic Greek lyrics. I examine Quasimodo’s ethics, placing his poetry and Dallapiccola’s settings within Gramsci’s notions of language and politics, which were highly influential on postwar Italian composers.
Feasibility and acceptability of HIV self‐testing among pre‐exposure prophylaxis users in Kenya
Authors: Ngure Kenneth , Heffron Renee , Mugo Nelly , Thomson Kerry A. , Irungu Elizabeth , Njuguna Njambi , Mwaniki Lawrence , Celum Connie , Baeten Jared M.
Published: March 2017

Introduction: HIV testing is key to the delivery of pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP): testing HIV‐uninfected at‐risk persons is the first step for PrEP initiation and ongoing HIV testing is an essential part of PrEP delivery. Thus, novel and cost‐effective HIV‐testing approaches to streamline delivery of PrEP are urgently needed. Within a demonstration project of PrEP for HIV prevention among high‐risk HIV serodiscordant couples in Kenya (the Partners Demonstration Project), we conducted a pilot evaluation of HIV self‐testing.

Methods: Clinic visits were scheduled quarterly and included in‐clinic HIV testing using fingerstick rapid HIV tests and refills of PrEP prescriptions. HIV oral fluid self‐test kits were provided for participants to use in the two‐month interval between scheduled quarterly clinic visits. Acceptability of HIV self‐testing was assessed using both quantitative and qualitative methods.

Results: We found that 222 of 226 (98%) HIV‐uninfected persons who were offered accepted self‐testing. Nearly all (96.8%) reported that using the self‐testing kit was easy. More than half (54.5%) reportedly did not share the HIV results from self‐testing with anyone and almost all (98.7%) the participants did not share the HIV self‐testing kits with anyone. Many participants reported that HIV self‐testing was empowering and reduced anxiety associated with waiting between clinic HIV tests.

Conclusions: HIV self‐testing was highly acceptable and may therefore be a feasible strategy to efficiently permit routine HIV testing between PrEP refills.
Climate-change-induced range shifts of three allergenic ragweeds (AmbrosiaL.) in Europe and their potential impact on human health
Authors: Rasmussen Karen , Thyrring Jakob , Muscarella Robert , Borchsenius Finn
Published: March 2017

Invasive allergenic plant species may have severe health-related impacts. In this study we aim to predict the effects of climate change on the distribution of three allergenic ragweed species (Ambrosiaspp.) in Europe and discuss the potential associated health impact. We built species distribution models based on presence-only data for three ragweed species, using MAXENT software. Future climatic habitat suitability was modeled under two IPCC climate change scenarios (RCP 6.0 and RCP 8.5). We quantify the extent of the increase in ‘high allergy risk’ (HAR) areas, i.e., parts of Europe with climatic conditions corresponding to the highest quartile (25%) of present day habitat suitability for each of the three species. We estimate that by year 2100, the distribution range of all three ragweed species increases towards Northern and Eastern Europe under all climate scenarios. HAR areas will expand in Europe by 27–100%, depending on species and climate scenario. Novel HAR areas will occur mostly in Denmark, France, Germany, Russia and the Baltic countries, and overlap with densely populated cities such as Paris and St. Petersburg. We conclude that areas in Europe affected by severe ragweed associated allergy problems are likely to increase substantially by year 2100, affecting millions of people. To avoid this, management strategies must be developed that restrict ragweed dispersal and establishment of new populations. Precautionary efforts should limit the spread of ragweed seeds and reduce existing populations. Only by applying cross-countries management plans can managers mitigate future health risks and economical consequences of a ragweed expansion in Europe.
A case study of EMIC waves associated with sudden geosynchronous magnetic field changes
Authors: Kim Khan‐Hyuk , Omura Yoshiharu , Jin Ho , Hwang Junga
Published: March 2017

We present observations of electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves associated with a sudden commencement (SC) on 19 November 2007. In our study, we clearly showed that there was a time delay of ∼10–15 min between the SC onset and the occurrence of EMIC waves at GOES 12 and GOES 10 in the afternoon sector, while the SC‐associated EMIC wave activity observed by GOES 11 in the morning sector started almost immediately after the onset of the SC. This indicates that the EMIC wave source drifts eastward and that magnetospheric compression alone cannot generate EMIC waves without source particles. We suggest that the wave source motion drifting eastward is attributed to the SC‐associated convection electric field, which is slower than the speed of the initial SC disturbance propagating as a fast mode wave. The spectral broadening of EMIC waves for nonlinear wave growth is examined by changing a spatial gradient of the background magnetic field. We have shown that the spectral properties of the observed SC‐associated EMIC waves are in good agreement with the nonlinear theory. In addition, we observed substorm‐associated EMIC wave activity accompanied by a sudden decrease in magnetic field intensity when the satellites were near dusk. By comparing the wave onset times, we confirmed that the substorm‐associated wave source drifted westward.
A new model for predicting the drag exerted by vegetation canopies
Authors: Etminan Vahid , Lowe Ryan J. , Ghisalberti Marco
Published: March 2017

The influence of vegetation canopies on the flow structure in streams, rivers, and floodplains is heavily dependent on the cumulative drag forces exerted by the vegetation. The drag coefficients of vegetation elements within a canopy have been shown to be significantly different from the well‐established value for a single element in isolation. This study investigates the mechanisms that determine canopy flow resistance and proposes a new model for predicting canopy drag coefficients. Large Eddy Simulations were used to investigate the fine‐scale hydrodynamics within emergent canopies with solid area fractions () ranging from 0.016 to 0.25. The influences of three mechanisms in modifying canopy drag, namely, blockage, sheltering, and delayed separation, were investigated. While the effects of sheltering and delayed separation were found to slightly reduce the drag of very sparse canopies, the blockage effect significantly increased the drag of denser canopies (). An analogy between canopy flow and wall‐confined flow around bluff bodies is used to identify an alternative reference velocity in the definition of the canopy drag coefficient; namely, the constricted cross‐section velocity (Uc). Through comparison with both prior experimental data and the present numerical simulations, typical formulations for the drag coefficient of a single cylinder are shown to accurately predict the drag coefficient of staggered emergent canopies whenis used as the reference velocity. Finally, it is shown that this new model can be extended to predict the bulk drag coefficient of randomly arranged vegetation canopies.
Bay of Bengal salinity stratification and Indian summer monsoon intraseasonal oscillation: 2. Impact on SST and convection
Authors: Li Yuanlong , Han Weiqing , Wang Wanqiu , Ravichandran M. , Lee Tong , Shinoda Toshiaki
Published: March 2017

The Indian summer monsoon intraseasonal oscillations (MISOs) induce pronounced intraseasonal sea surface temperature (SST) variability in the Bay of Bengal (BoB), which has important feedbacks to atmospheric convection. An ocean general circulation model (OGCM) is employed to investigate the upper‐ocean processes affecting intraseasonal SST variability and its feedback to the MISO convection. In the BoB, the MISO induces intraseasonal SST variability predominantly through surface heat flux forcing with comparable contributions from shortwave radiation and turbulent heat flux, and to a much smaller extent through wind‐driven ocean mixed layer entrainment. The ocean salinity stratification, represented by mixed layer depth (MLD) and barrier layer thickness (BLT), has a strong control on SST but weak impact on convection of the MISO. The MLD is critical for the amplitude of SST response to various forcing processes, while the BLT mainly affects entrainment by determining the temperature difference between the mixed layer and the water below. From May to mid‐June, the shallow MLD and thin barrier layer greatly enhance intraseasonal SST anomalies, which can amplify convection fluctuations of the MISO through air‐sea interaction and leads to intense but short‐duration postconvection break spells. When either the MLD or the BLT is large, intraseasonal SSTs tend to be weak. Further investigation reveals that freshwater flux of the monsoon gives rise to the shallow MLD and thick barrier layer, and its overall effect on intraseasonal SSTs is a 20% enhancement. These results provide implications for improving the simulation and forecast of the MISO in climate models.
Thank you to 2016 reviewers of Radio Science
Authors: Wilkinson Phil , Salous Sana
Published: March 2017

On behalf of Radio Science, AGU, and the scientific community, the Editors and Associate Editors would like to thank everybody who reviewed manuscripts for Radio Science in 2016. Peer review is widely accepted as an indispensable part of science. The hours spent reading and commenting on manuscripts not only improves the manuscripts themselves, but it also ensures the scientific rigor of future research in our field. These contributions are vital. Many of those listed below went further and reviewed three or more manuscripts for Radio Science, and they are indicated in italics. Overall, Radio Science had 547 individuals provide reviews of 382 manuscripts. Thank you once again to all our reviewers for contributing your valuable time to this essential task. We look forward to a 2017 of exciting advances in our field and communicating those advances to our community and to the broader public.
De novo loss‐of‐function variants in STAG2 are associated with developmental delay, microcephaly, and congenital anomalies
Authors: Mullegama Sureni V. , Klein Steven D. , Mulatinho Milene V. , Senaratne Tharanga Niroshini , Singh Kathryn ,   UCLA Clinical Genomics Center, Nguyen Dzung C. , Gallant Natalie M. , Strom Samuel P. , Ghahremani Shahnaz , Rao Nagesh P. , Martinez‐Agosto Julian A.
Published: March 2017

The cohesin complex is an evolutionarily conserved multi‐subunit protein complex which regulates sister chromatid cohesion during mitosis and meiosis. Additionally, the cohesin complex regulates DNA replication, DNA repair, and transcription. The core of the complex consists of four subunits: SMC1A, SMC3, RAD21, and STAG1/2. Loss‐of‐function mutations in many of these proteins have been implicated in human developmental disorders collectively termed “cohesinopathies.” Through clinical exome sequencing (CES) of an 8‐year‐old girl with a clinical history of global developmental delay, microcephaly, microtia with hearing loss, language delay, ADHD, and dysmorphic features, we describe a heterozygous de novo variant (c.205C>T; p.(Arg69*)) in the integral cohesin structural protein, STAG2. This variant is associated with decreased STAG2 protein expression. The analyses of metaphase spreads did not exhibit premature sister chromatid separation; however, delayed sister chromatid cohesion was observed. To further support the pathogenicity of STAG2 variants, we identified two additional female cases from the DECIPHER research database with mutations in STAG2 and phenotypes similar to our patient. Interestingly, the clinical features of these three cases are remarkably similar to those observed in other well‐established cohesinopathies. Herein, we suggest that STAG2 is a dosage‐sensitive gene and that heterozygous loss‐of‐function variants lead to a cohesinopathy.