bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vena Caval Anomalies
Authors: Rajakulasingam Ramyah , Francis Rohin , Rajakulasingam Ramanan
Published: November 2013

Anomalous vena cavae can have significant implications for procedures on the right side of the heart. We report a rare anatomical configuration in a 44-year-old female, which to the best of our knowledge, is the first report of such an association. She had a bicuspid aortic valve in conjunction with a persistent left superior vena cava (PLSVC) draining into the coronary sinus, and a left-sided inferior vena cava (IVC) draining into a left superior vena cava via the hemiazygos vein. Comprehensive assessment of these anomalies is crucial given the widespread use of invasive cardiac procedures.
Benign Pairs: A Significant Entity in Aspiration Cytology Smears from Breast Lesions
Authors: Rathi Monika , Kala Pooja , Gupta Atul , Budania Satish Kumar , Ahuja Harshkiran
Published: November 2013

Introduction

Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is a reliable diagnostic tool used to diagnose breast lesions preoperatively. However, FNAC is also associated with diagnostic pitfalls. Further studies are needed to improve its diagnostic efficacy. We noticed ovoid, bare nuclei arranged in closely touching diads (benign pairs) in a significant number of cytology smears. This prompted us to assess their diagnostic utility.

Materials and Methods

This was a prospective study conducted in Sarojini Naidu Medical College, Agra, India. Quantitative estimation of benign pairs per 1000 ductal cells in at least 20 high power field was attempted in cytology smears of 128 cases.

Results

The average number of pairs in benign and malignant lesions was calculated as 7.07 ∓ 5.96 and 0.28 ∓ 0.78, respectively. Statistical analysis showed a significant difference between the number of pairs in benign and malignant cases ( P < 0.0005).

Conclusions

Quantitative estimation of benign pairs is helpful in distinguishing benign from malignant cases.
On the Multiplicities of Characters in Table Algebras
Authors: Bagherian J.
Published: November 2013

In this paper we show that every module of a table algebra can be considered as a faithful module of some quotient table algebra. Also we prove that every faithful module of a table algebra determines a closed subset that is a cyclic group. As a main result we give some information about multiplicities of characters in table algebras.
New Hybrid Variational Recovery Model for Blurred Images with Multiplicative Noise
Authors: Dong Yiqiu , Zeng Tieyong
Published: November 2013

A new hybrid variational model for recovering blurred images in the presence of multiplicative noise is proposed. Inspired by previous work on multiplicative noise removal, an I-divergence technique is used to build a strictly convex model under a condition that ensures the uniqueness of the solution and the stability of the algorithm. A split-Bregman algorithm is adopted to solve the constrained minimisation problem in the new hybrid model efficiently. Numerical tests for simultaneous deblurring and denoising of the images subject to multiplicative noise are then reported. Comparison with other methods clearly demonstrates the good performance of our new approach.
Observation of biogenic secondary organic aerosols in the atmosphere of a mountain site in central China: temperature and relative humidity effects
Authors: Li J. J. , Wang G. H. , Cao J. J. , Wang X. M. , Zhang R. J.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. Secondary organic aerosols (SOA) derived from isoprene, pinene and caryophyllene were determined for PM10 and size-segregated (9-stages) aerosols collected at the summit (2060 m a.s.l.) of Mt. Hua, central China during the summer of 2009. Estimated concentrations of isoprene, α-/β-pinene and β-caryophyllene derived secondary organic carbon (SOC) are 81 ± 53, 29 ± 14 and 98 ± 53 ng m−3, accounting for 2.7 ± 1.0%, 0.8 ± 0.2% and 2.1 ± 1.0% of OC, respectively. Concentrations of biogenic (BSOA, the isoprene/pinene/caryophyllene oxidation products) and anthropogenic (ASOA, mainly aromatic acids) SOA positively correlated with temperature (R=0.57–0.90). However, a decreasing trend of BSOA concentration with an increase in relative humidity (RH) was observed during the sampling period, although a clear trend between ASOA and RH was not found. Based on the AIM Model calculation, we found that during the sampling period an increase in RH resulted in a decrease in the aerosol acidity and thus reduced the effect of acid-catalysis on BSOA formation. There was no significant correlation observed for the BSOA products and anthropogenic parameters (e.g. EC, SO42− and NO4−). Size distribution measurements showed that most of the determined BSOA are formed in the aerosol phase and enriched in the fine mode (<2.1 μm) except for cis-pinonic acid, which is formed in the gas phase and subsequently partitioned into aerosol phase and thus presents a bimodal pattern with a small peak in the fine mode and a large peak in the coarse mode (>2.1 μm).
Multispectral information from TANSO-FTS instrument – Part 2: Application to aerosol effect on greenhouse gas retrievals
Authors: Herbin H. , Labonnote L. C. , Dubuisson P.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. This article is the second in a series of studies investigating the benefits of multispectral measurements to improve the atmospheric parameter retrievals. In the first paper, we presented an information content (IC) analysis from the thermal infrared (TIR) and shortwave infrared (SWIR) bands of Thermal And Near infrared Sensor for carbon Observations–Fourier Transform Spectrometer (TANSO-FTS) instrument dedicated to greenhouse gas retrieval in clear sky conditions. This second paper presents the potential of the spectral synergy from TIR to visible for aerosol characterization, and their impact on the retrieved CO2 and CH4 column concentrations. The IC is then used to determine the most informative spectral channels for the simultaneous retrieval of greenhouse gas total columns and aerosol parameters. The results show that a channel selection spanning the four bands can improve the computation time and retrieval accuracy. Therefore, the spectral synergy allows obtaining up to almost seven different aerosol parameters, which is comparable to the most informative dedicated instruments. Moreover, a channel selection from the TIR to visible bands allows retrieving CO2 and CH4 total columns simultaneously in the presence of one aerosol layer with a similar accuracy to using all channels together to retrieve each gas separately in clear sky conditions.
Modelling changes in nitrogen cycling to sustain increases in forest productivity under elevated atmospheric CO2 and contrasting site conditions
Authors: Grant R. F.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. If increases in net primary productivity (NPP) caused by rising concentrations of atmospheric CO2 (Ca) are to be sustained, key N processes such as soil mineralization, biological fixation, root uptake and nutrient conservation must also be increased. Simulating the response of these processes to elevated Ca is therefore vital for models used to project the effects of rising Ca on NPP. In this modelling study, hypotheses are proposed for changes in soil mineralization, biological fixation, root nutrient uptake and plant nutrient conservation with changes in Ca. Algorithms developed from these hypotheses were tested in the ecosystem model ecosys against changes in N and C cycling measured over several years under ambient vs. elevated Ca in Free Air CO2 Enrichment (FACE) experiments in the USA at the Duke Forest in North Carolina, the Oak Ridge National Laboratory forest in Tennessee, and the USDA research forest in Wisconsin. More rapid soil N mineralization was found to be vital for simulating sustained increases in NPP measured under elevated vs. ambient Ca at all three FACE sites. This simulation was accomplished by priming decomposition of N-rich humus from increases in microbial biomass generated by increased litterfall modelled under elevated Ca. Greater nonsymbiotic N2 fixation from increased litterfall, root N uptake from increased root growth, and plant N conservation from increased translocation under elevated Ca were found to make smaller contributions to simulated increases in NPP. However greater nutrient conservation enabled larger increases in NPP with Ca to be modelled with coniferous vs. deciduous plant functional types. The effects of these processes on productivity now need to be examined over longer periods under transient rises in Ca and a greater range of site conditions.
A novel estimate of ocean oxygen utilisation points to a reduced rate of respiration in the ocean interior
Authors: Duteil O. , Koeve W. , Oschlies A. , Bianchi D. , Galbraith E. , Kriest I. , Matear R.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. The Apparent Oxygen Utilisation (AOU) is a classical measure of the amount of oxygen respired in the ocean's interior. We show that AOU systematically overestimates True Oxygen Utilisation (TOU) in 6 coupled circulation-biogeochemical ocean models. This is due to atmosphere–ocean oxygen disequilibria in the subduction regions, consistent with previous work. We develop a simple, new, observationally-based approach which we call Evaluated Oxygen Utilisation (EOU). In this approach, we take into account the impact of the upper ocean oxygen disequilibria into the interior, considering that transport takes place predominantly along isopycnal surfaces. The EOU approximates the TOU with less than half of the bias of AOU in all 6 models despite large differences in the physical and biological components of the models. Applying the EOU approach to a global observational dataset yields an oxygen consumption rate 25% lower than that derived from AOU-based estimates, for a given ventilation rate.
Comparing three vegetation monoterpene emission models to measured gas concentrations with a model of meteorology, air chemistry and chemical transport
Authors: Smolander S. , He Q. , Mogensen D. , Zhou L. , Bäck J. , Ruuskanen T. , Noe S. , Guenther A. , Aaltonen H. , Kulmala M. , Boy M.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. Biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) are essential in atmospheric chemistry because of their chemical reactions that produce and destroy tropospheric ozone, their effects on aerosol formation and growth, and their potential influence on global warming. As one of the important BVOC groups, monoterpenes have been a focus of scientific attention in atmospheric research. Detailed regional measurements and model estimates are needed to study emission potential and the monoterpene budget on a global scale. Since the use of empirical measurements for upscaling is limited by many physical and biological factors such as genetic variation, temperature and light, water availability, seasonal changes, and environmental stresses, comprehensive inventories over larger areas are difficult to obtain. We applied the boundary layer-chemistry-transport model SOSA to investigate Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) monoterpene emissions in a boreal coniferous forest at the SMEAR II site, Southern Finland. SOSA was applied to simulate monoterpene emissions with three different emission modules: the semi-empirical G95, MEGAN 2.04 with improved descriptions of temperature and light responses and including also carbonyl emissions, and a process-based model SIM-BIM. For the first time, the emission models included seasonal and diurnal variations in both quantity and chemical species of emitted monoterpenes, based on parameterizations obtained from field measurements. Results indicate that modelling and observations agreed reasonably well, and that the model can be used for investigating regional air chemistry questions related to monoterpenes. The predominant modelled monoterpene concentrations, α-pinene and Δ3-carene, are consistent with observations.
Earth Orbit v2.1: a 3-D visualization and analysis model of Earth's orbit, Milankovitch cycles and insolation
Authors: Kostadinov T. S. , Gilb R.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. Milankovitch theory postulates that periodic variability of Earth's orbital elements is a major climate forcing mechanism, causing, for example, the contemporary glacial-interglacial cycles. There are three Milankovitch orbital parameters: orbital eccentricity, precession and obliquity. The interaction of the amplitudes, periods and phases of these parameters controls the spatio-temporal patterns of incoming solar radiation (insolation) and the timing of the seasons with respect to perihelion. This complexity makes Earth–Sun geometry and Milankovitch theory difficult to teach effectively. Here, we present "Earth Orbit v2.1": an astronomically precise and accurate model that offers 3-D visualizations of Earth's orbital geometry, Milankovitch parameters and the ensuing insolation forcing. The model is developed in MATLAB® as a user-friendly graphical user interface. Users are presented with a choice between the Berger (1978a) and Laskar et al. (2004) astronomical solutions for eccentricity, obliquity and precession. A "demo" mode is also available, which allows the Milankovitch parameters to be varied independently of each other, so that users can isolate the effects of each parameter on orbital geometry, the seasons, and insolation. A 3-D orbital configuration plot, as well as various surface and line plots of insolation and insolation anomalies on various time and space scales are produced. Insolation computations use the model's own orbital geometry with no additional a priori input other than the Milankovitch parameter solutions. Insolation output and the underlying solar declination computation are successfully validated against the results of Laskar et al. (2004) and Meeus (1998), respectively. The model outputs some ancillary parameters as well, e.g. Earth's radius-vector length, solar declination and day length for the chosen date and latitude. Time-series plots of the Milankovitch parameters and EPICA ice core CO2 and temperature data can be produced. Both research and pedagogical applications are envisioned for the model.
The Implementation of the Rights of Suspects in Detention Process
Authors: Ranggong Ruslan
Published: November 2013

Detention is a forceful effort taken to confine freedom in the movement of a suspected person committing a crime in the aim of accelerating criminal justice. However, it does not mean that prisoners whose liberty is confined can be treated arbitrarily in the form of torture, cruel treatment and discrimination. This study aims at observing the implementation of the rights of suspects for not being tortured and cruelly treated in the detention process and the obstacles in the implementation of these rights. The findings shows that this kind of implementation has not been optimally realized as torture practice and cruel treatment due to the weak understanding of law instruments against torture and arrogance of the legal officials are still found.
Delitos Financieros y Económicos
Authors: Ramos Cáceres César
Published: November 2013

El presente trabajo de investigación nos ha conducido a conocer las situación difícil que actualmente atraviesa nuestro país, a causa de la corrupción imperante de personas encargadas de administrar instituciones con fuertes cantidades de recursos económicos y que su ambición desmedida los ha llevado a la comisión de los denominados delitos económicos y financieros, conocidos comúnmente como “Delitos de Cuello Blanco”, por ser éstos cometidos por personajes in­fluyentes de nuestras sociedades.- Se ha concluido que la falta de rigidez en la aplicabilidad de las leyes existentes que regulan este tipo de situaciones, y por la impunidad casi institucionalizada; este tipo de delitos se ha acrecentado, lo que ha venido también al alza de los índices de pobreza y miseria en nuestras socie­dades, por lo que se ha recomendado la implementación de fuertes medidas que contribuyan a hacer eficaz la prevención en la comisión de este tipo de delitos. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5377/lrd.v33i0.1258 Revista de Derecho, Vol. 33, Nº 1, Año 2012: 5-29
El Analfabetismo en Honduras
Authors: Flores Sandra
Published: November 2013

Es prioridad en estos momentos dar a conocer la situación tan agravante como deficiente que enfrenta el sistema educativo nacional como uno de los entes más importantes que enlistan las causas que contribuyen a los altos grados de analfabetismo que Honduras está confrontando en todas las áreas. Es por ello que hemos reto­mado el tema porque nos parece preocupante que cada día la Educación en Honduras no va de acuerdo con la curricula básica nacional, el grado de personas analfabetas ha incremen­tado. Al realizar el presente estudio y verificar las estadísticas proporcionadas por el Instituto Nacional de Estadísticas (INE) cerca de 804,600 mil personas de los 8.093,877 millones de habitantes que tiene Honduras son analfabetas es alarmante que más del 14.9 por ciento de la población no tiene acceso a la educación; otra causa por cual se genera la falta de cono­cimiento de dicha materia es el elevado índice de desempleo y descomposición familiar. Con el presente trabajo se pretende que sirva de referencia para buscar propuestas y soluciones ya que hemos llegado hasta el fondo de la problemática, situación, por lo cual es necesa­rio que se reflexione y se tome conciencia que las consecuencias son agudizantes y que somos parte de ella. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5377/lrd.v33i0.1261 Revista de Derecho, Vol. 33, Nº 1, Año 2012: 99-113
Novedades Legislativas Año 2012
Authors: Editora La
Published: November 2013

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5377/lrd.v33i0.1263 Revista de Derecho, Vol. 33, Nº 1, Año 2012: 125-126
Poland’s Urban Competitiveness in the European Context
Authors: Szczech-Pietkiewicz Ewelina
Published: November 2013

The article attempts to evaluate the competitive position of selected Polish cities, as opposed to cities from other European Union member states. In order to do so, the author defines urban competitiveness as a set of factors contributing to both high productivity and standard of living in a given urban area, and based on that, creates a list of possible indicators of urban competitiveness. Using quantitative analysis, the selected cities are compared to determine how competitive potential is used in each city. This evaluation suggests that the competitive position of Polish cities tend to fall behind that of counterparts from other countries in almost all analyzed areas. Therefore, some preliminary recommendations can be made that focus on establishing coherent policies and goals that are adjusted to both resources and trends in economic development. The overall conclusion of the paper is summed up in the statement that Polish cities are rather homogeneous in their performance and do not create any visible competitive advantage–in particular, for foreign investors.
Sustainable monitoring of roe deer in public hunting areas in the Spanish Pyrenees
Authors: Herrero J. , Torres R. T. , Prada C. , García-Serrano A. , Giménez‐Anaya A. , Fernández O.
Published: November 2013

Aim of study: Monitoring trends in animal populations is essential for the development of appropriate wildlife management strategies.Area of study: The area is situated in the southern Pyrenees (Aragon), Spain.Material and methods: To measure the abundance, population trends, sex ratio, and mortality of roe deer populations, we analyzed data from i) driven hunts for wild boar (hunting seasons 1995/96 – 2009/10, n = 1,417, ii) itineraries, which were used to calculate the KAI and density using DS (2003 – 2010, n = 310 itineraries), iii) roe deer carcass recoveries (2006 – 2010, n = 100), and iv) data from the deer hunting quota fulfillment (2006 – 2010, n = 325 hunted animals.Main results: Based on DS, in 2010, the average density of roe deer populations was 2.3 km-2 (CV 17%). Based on the KAI and the battues, the estimated average annual rate of increase was 5.8% and 4.3%, respectively. Based on the KAI and the carcass recoveries, the estimates of the population sex ratio were 0.75 (n = 641) and 0.9 (n = 100) males per female, respectively. Carcass recoveries indicated that mortality was highest in late winter and early spring. The average body masses and sizes of males and females were within the ranges reported for other Iberian and European populations.Research highlights: Monitoring should be continued in the Aragon population of roe deer, although larger sample sizes are required to increase the accuracy of estimates and assessments of the impact of management actions.Key words: Capreolus capreolus; hunting bag; distance sampling; KAI; Spain; rangers; long-term monitoring.
Plant size and abiotic factors determine the intra-specific variation in the multi-stemmed architecture of Prunus lusitanica in the Northeast limit of its global distribution
Authors: Muñoz Costa A. , Calleja-Alarcón J.A.
Published: November 2013

Aim of study: The present work provides novel insights on factors (either intrinsic or extrinsic) that trigger sprouting in woody species living at range margins. We aim to explain the inter-individual variability in the multi-stemmed architecture of Prunus lusitanica L., an Iberian evergreen relict tree related to the Tertiary flora.Area of study: Northeastern Mediterranean mountains of the Iberian Peninsula, the Northeast limit of the global distribution of the species.Material and Methods: We gathered data on two modes of vegetative reproduction, basal and layering sprouts, in 288 clumps of Prunus lusitanica from four populations. We modeled and analyzed the effect of environmental factors (topography, canopy cover, soil moisture and disturbances) and plant size (diameter at breast height) on sprouting by means of Generalized Linear Model and other statistical approaches.Main results: Plant size arises as the principal factor to explain the variability of the numbers of both types of sprouts yet it is not a trigger factor. Natural and anthropogenic disturbances promote basal and layering shoots, while tree canopy is mainly relevant for basal shoots, and slope and soil moisture are significant factors for layering shoots.Research highlights: The multi-stemmed architecture of P. lusitanica at the Northeastern limit of its worldwide distribution is triggered by local environmental factors and disturbances. Each external factor shows different levels of influence on the variability and type of vegetative reproduction yet the intensity of the response is driven by the size of the largest trunk of each clump.Key words: vegetative reproduction; sprouting; disturbances; woody plants; relict tree; subtropical; Iberian Peninsula.
Extending the limits of paper recycling - improvements along the paper value chain
Authors: Blanco A. , Miranda R. , Monte M.C.
Published: November 2013

Aim of study: The purpose of this study is to analyze how paper recycling activities in Europe can be extended through different improvements along the paper value chain. The importance of this study lies in the identification of the present barriers in paper recycling and how they can be overcome.Area of study: Europe.Material and Methods: All the main stages along the paper value chain have been analyzed for possible improvements: collection of recovered paper (availability and quality), sorting of recovered paper, paper production, and printing and converting activities.Main results: To increase paper recycling in Europe the following improvements are necessary. First, it is mandatory to increase the availability of recovered paper through more efficient collection systems (avoiding the use of commingled collection systems) and limiting the competition with energy purposes and the exports. Second, it is necessary to extend sorting activities, which can be achieved by reducing sorting costs by the use of automatized sorting systems. Third, there is a need to increase the recyclability of paper products by the commitment of printing and converting industries to use recycling-friendly printing inks and adhesives. Finally, environmental awareness of the citizens is still an important driver for increasing recycling activities, affecting not only recovery but to all the stages along the paper recycling chain.Research highlights: Although the recycling rate in Europe is already very high (68.9%), there is still room to further extend paper recycling activities through different improvements along the paper value chain.Keywords: paper recycling; sustainability; paper value chain; recovered paper; environmental awareness.
Mechanical properties of wood from Pinus sylvestris L. treated with Light Organic Solvent Preservative and with waterborne Copper Azole
Authors: Villasante A.M. , Laina R. , Rojas J.A. Martinez , Rojas I. Martinez , Vignote S.
Published: November 2013

Aim of study: To determine the effect on wood from Pinus sylvestris of treatment with preservatives on mechanical properties and to establish the relation between the penetration and compression strength.Area of study: SpainMaterial and Methods: 40 samples of defect-free wood from Pinus sylvestris L. were treated with Light Organic Solvent Preservative (Vacsol Azure WR 2601) and 50 with waterborne Copper Azole (Tanalith E 3492). 40 control samples were not treated (water or preservative). Mechanical resistance to static bending, modulus of elasticity and compression strength parallel to the grain were compared with untreated wood. Regression analysis between the penetration and compression strength parallel was done with the samples treated with waterborne preservative.Main results: The results indicate that the treated wood (with either product) presents a statistically significant increase in mechanical resistance in all three mechanical characteristics. The results obtained differ from earlier studies carried out by other authors.There was no correlation between parallel compression strength and the degree of impregnation of the wood with waterborne Copper Azole . The most probable explanation for these results concerns changes in pressure during treatment.The use of untreated control samples instead of samples treated only with water is more likely to produce significant results in the mechanical resistance studies.Research highlights: Treated wood presents a statistically significant increase in MOE, modulus of rupture to static bending  and parallel compression strength.There was no correlation between parallel compression strength and the degree of impregnation with waterborne preservative.Keywords: Light Organic Solvent Preservative; MOE; parallel compression; static bending; waterborne Copper Azole; wood technology.
Forest Attributes Estimation Using Aerial Laser Scanner and TM Data
Authors: Shataee Joibary S.
Published: November 2013

Aim of study: The aim of this study was performance of four non-parametric algorithms including the k-NN, SVR, RF and ANN to estimate forest volume and basal area attributes using combination of Aerial Laser Scanner and Landsat-TM data.Area of study: Data in small part of a mixed managed forest in the Waldkirch region, Germany.Material and methods: The volume/ha and basal area/ha in the 411 circular plots were estimated based on DBH and height of trees using volume functions of study area. The low density ALS raw data as first and last pulses were prepared and automatically classified into vegetation and ground returns to generate two fine resolution digital terrain and surface models after noise removing. Plot-based height and density metrics were extracted from ALS data and used both separated and combined with orthorectified and processed TM bands. The algorithms implemented with different options including k-NN with different distance measures, SVR with the best regularized parameters for four kernel types, RF with regularized decision tree parameters and ANN with different types of networks. The algorithm performances were validated using computing absolute and percentage RMSe and bias on unused test samples.Main results: Results showed that among four methods, SVR using the RBF kernel could better estimate volume/ha with lower RMSe and bias (156.02 m3 ha–1 and 0.48, respectively) compared to others. In basal area/ha, k-NN could generate results with similar RMSe (11.79 m3 ha–1) but unbiased (0.03) compared to SVR with RMSe of 11.55 m3 ha–1 but slightly biased (–1.04).Research highlights: Results exposed that combining Lidar with TM data could improve estimations compared to using only Lidar or TM data.Key words: forest attributes estimation; ALS; TM; non-parametric algorithms.
Modelling stand biomass fractions in Galician Eucalyptus globulus plantations by use of different LiDAR pulse densities
Authors: González-Ferreiro E.M. , Miranda D. , Barreiro-Fernandez L. , Bujan S. , Garcia-Gutierrez J. , Dieguez-Aranda U.
Published: November 2013

Aims of study: To evaluate the potential use of canopy height and intensity distributions, determined by airborne LiDAR, for the estimation of crown, stem and aboveground biomass fractions.To assess the effects of a reduction in LiDAR pulse densities on model precision.Area of study: The study area is located in Galicia, NW Spain. The forests are representative of Eucalyptus globules stands in NW Spain, characterized by low-intensity silvicultural treatments and by the presence of tall shrub.Material and methods: Linear, multiplicative power and exponential models were used to establish empirical relationships between field measurements and LiDAR metrics.A random selection of LiDAR returns and a comparison of the prediction errors by LiDAR pulse density factor were performed to study a possible loss of fit in these models.Main results: Models showed similar goodness-of-fit statistics to those reported in the international literature. R2 ranged from 0.52 to 0.75 for stand crown biomass, from 0.64 to 0.87 for stand stem biomass, and from 0.63 to 0.86 for stand aboveground biomass. The RMSE/MEAN · 100 of the set of fitted models ranged from 17.4% to 28.4%.Models precision was essentially maintained when 87.5% of the original point cloud was reduced, i.e. a reduction from 4 pulses m–2 to 0.5 pulses m–2.Research highlights: Considering the results of this study, the low-density LiDAR data that are released by the Spanish National Geographic Institute will be an excellent source of information for reducing the cost of forest inventories.Key words: Eucalypt plantations; airborne laser scanning; aboveground biomass; carbon stocks; remote sensing; forest inventory.
Large wildland fires in three diverse regions in Spain from 1978 to 2010.
Authors: Cardil Forradellas A. , Molina Terrén D.
Published: November 2013

Aim of study: Large wildland fires (LWF) are major disturbance processes affecting many ecosystems each year. In last decades, socio-economic changes have contributed to major changes in land uses. This study assess trends in number, burned area and average size of large wildfires (> 100 ha) from 1978 to 2010 in Spain.Area of study: This work analyzes three clearly different regions of Spain (Mediterranean coast, MC, Mediterranean Interior, MI, Northwestern Spain, NW).Material and Methods: We studied historical wildland fire data from Spain’s EGIF database (General Statistics on Wildland Fires). We selected only wildland fires larger than 100 ha. All LWF were analyzed to test trends in number of fires, burned area and mean fire size.Main results: The number of LWF decreased in all regions but the burned area only decreased in MC and NW regions. However, both the number of LWF and the burned area did not decrease after 1995 in any region. The average size of LWF did not change in any of the three regions. Fires larger than 500 ha were very significant due to the high percentage of area burned in relation to the total area burned by fires larger than 100 ha (79.3 % in MC, 63.9 % in MI, and 35.7% in NW).Research highlights: After 1995, the number of LWF and burned area did not decrease. Additional actions are required including learned lessons from past LWF spread, and better trained fire suppression workers and more fuel management.Keywords: large wildland fires; trends; forest management; Spain.
Short Communication. An efficient axillary shoots propagate system for the living fossil plant - Wollemi pine (Wollemia nobilis)
Authors: Niu Y. , Du J. , Zhang Q. , Pei X. , Zhan X.
Published: November 2013

Aim of study: The aim of the work was to determine the optimum axillary shoot induction system by optimizing different factors.Area of study: The different factors which were pretreatment methods, media types, kinds of cytokinins and dark treatmentMaterial and methods: After pretreating and sterilizing, the stems of Wollemi pine which about 3cm long were cultured on three kinds of media (GD, DCR AND ms) with different concentration and type of cytokines (BA, ZT and TDZ), as well as dark treatment (0, and 4 weeks) and then exposure to tissue culture room. The experiments were randomized block designed and the results were analyzed with ANOVA.Main results: Rapid freezing in liquid nitrogen was the most effective pretreatment method, dark treatment for the first 4-weeks of stem explants cultured in induction media could increase the frequency of axillary shoot induction significantly. The highest frequency of axillary shoot induction (63%) was obtained when explants were cultured in 1/2GD medium with 6.8 μM TDZ combining 4-weeks dark treatment. Research highlights: The optimized conditions for shoot production in vitro can be useful for conservation in vitro of Wollemia nobilis.Keywords: Wollemia nobilis; in vitro conservation; tissue culture; an endangered relict conifer.
Above-ground biomass equations for Pinus radiata D. Don in Asturias
Authors: Canga E. , Diéguez-Aranda U. , Elias A.K. , Cámara A.
Published: November 2013

Aim of the study: The aim of this study was to develop a model for above-ground biomass estimation for Pinus radiata D. Don in Asturias.Area of study: Asturias (NE of Spain).Material and methods: Different models were fitted for the different above-ground components and weighted regression was used to correct heteroscedasticity. Finally, all the models were refitted simultaneously by use of Nonlinear Seemingly Unrelated Regressions (NSUR) to ensure the additivity of biomass equations.Research highlights: A system of four biomass equations (wood, bark, crown and total biomass) was develop, such that the sum of the estimations of the three biomass components is equal to the estimate of total biomass. Total and stem biomass equations explained more than 92% of observed variability, while crown and bark biomass equations explained 77% and 89% respectively.Keywords: radiata pine; plantations; biomass.
Short Communication. Physiological effects of Rhizopogon Roseolus on Pinus halepensis seedlings
Authors: Domínguez Núñez J.A. Alfonso , Saiz M. , Calderon C. , Saiz de Omeñaca J.A.
Published: November 2013

Aim of study: The inoculation of forest seedlings with ectomycorrhizal fungi can improve the morphological and physiological qualities of plants, especially those used for regeneration of arid areas. Rhizopogon roseolus is an ectomycorrhizal fungus (ECM) commonly used for reforestation. In this study, the specific objectives were to know some morphophysiological effects of Rhizopogon Roseolus on Pinus halepensis seedlings under standard nursery conditionsArea of study: ETSI Montes and EUIT Forestal, Madrid.Material and Methods: In nursery, under well watered conditions and peat growing substrates, Aleppo pine seedlings were inoculated with R. roseolus. Five months after the inoculations, we examined the growth, water parameters (osmotic potential at full turgor [Ψπfull], osmotic potential at zero turgor [Ψπ0], and the tissue modulus of elasticity near full turgor [Emax]), mycorrhizal colonization, and concentration and content of macronutrients in the seedlings. Subsequently, a trial was conducted to assess the root growth potential.Main results: The mycorrhization decreased the height and diameter of mycorrhizal seedlings but increased the root weight and root branching. R. roseolus did not cause any significant effect on the regeneration of new roots or on any of the tested hydric parameters, but it did improve N uptake of the seedlings.Research highlights: The mycorrhizal inoculation increased the N uptake. The mycorrhizal inoculation caused opposite effects on some growth parametersKeywords: Osmotic adjustment; elastic adjustment; mineral nutrition; root growth potential; nursery; Rhizopogon roseolus;  Pinus halepensis.
Content of pyrrolizidine alkaloids in the leaves of coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara L.) in Poland
Authors: Adamczak Artur , Opala Bogna , Gryszczyńska Agnieszka , Buchwald Waldemar
Published: November 2013

Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara L.) is a common species, widely used in European and Chinese traditional medicine for the treatment of respiratory diseases. However, raw material from this plant contains hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs). The aim of the study was to determine the variability of the level of PAs (senkirkine and senecionine) in leaves of coltsfoot originated from natural populations in Poland. In the phytochemical analysis, 20 samples of T. farfara were used. This plant material was obtained from the Garden of Medicinal Plants in Plewiska near Poznań and originated from different regions of Poland. Coltsfoot leaves were harvested in the middle of July of 2010 and then dried at room temperature. The alkaloid content was detected using the HPLC-DAD method. The amount of PAs in leaves of T. farfara changed in a wide range from 0.06 to 1.04 μg g−1 of dry matter (DM). The content of senkirkine and senecionine was positively correlated (r = 0.68, P = 0.001). There was no statistically significant correlation between the amount of PAs as well as leaf weight and water content in leaves of T. farfara. Our results showed that a medium-sized leaf of coltsfoot (0.33 g DM) may contain from 0.02 to 0.34 μg of PAs (on average 0.14 μg). The level of PAs was not associated with the region of Poland, but phytochemical similarity of samples was usually visible at the local scale. Coltsfoot leaves are characterized by a high variability of the content of toxic PAs, much higher than in the case of the main active compounds, especially flavonoids and mucilage.
 This phytochemical variability is mainly genetically determined (samples came from a garden collection), and it can be increased by environmental factors. Our investigations indicate that Polish natural populations of T. farfara may provide raw material with a low level of toxic PAs.
O contexto geotectônico e a morfogênese da Província Serrana de Mato Grosso
Authors: Ross Jurandyr Luciano Sanches
Published: November 2013

A área serrana que serve de divisor de águas entre as bacias dos rios Cuiabá e Paraguai, participantes da bacia hidrográfica do Paraná, e dos rios Arinos e Teles Pires, pertencentes à bacia hidrográfica do Amazonas, caracteriza-se por extenso terreno (aproximadamente 400km de extensão e 40km de largura) de relevos residuais, remanescentes de fases erosivas do Pré Cretáceo e do Cenozóico. Estes relevos serranos resultaram inicialmente da atividade orogenética que se processou no Pré-Cambriano Superior, a partir de bacia geossinclinal e da geração dos cinturões orogenéticos do Ciclo Brasiliano. Deste processo, resultou o Geossinclíneo Paraguai-Araguaia de grande extensão. As serras residuais, sustentadas por arenitos e secundariamente por calcários, fazem parte deste extenso geossinclíneo. Os dobramentos, associados a falhamentos transcorrentes e inversos, seguidos de fases erosivas diversas, são os responsáveis pela esculturação dos relevos em estruturas dobradas mais preservadas do Brasil. Formas em cristas assimétricas de bordas de anticlinais interiormente erodidas, de sinclinais alçadas ou ainda vertentes abruptas de dorsos de anticlinais de topos aplainados, dispostos em paralelo a vales sinclinais, depressões anticlinais fechadas, vales superimpostos, gargantas epigênicas, topos retilinizados em diferentes níveis altimétricos, bem como ocorrência de amplas depressões circundantes são fatos de grande presença neste tipo de modelado. A gênese, portanto, destes relevos encontra explicação não só na tectônica antiga que gerou o cinturão orogênico mas também na tectônica cenozóica que o colocou novamente em evidência com o soerguimento epirogenético da Plataforma Sul-americana e os processos erosivos que se sucederam principalmente ao longo do Cenozóico Superior
Sedimentologia dos depósitos cenozóicos continentais do Baixo Vale do Rio Ribeira do Iguape, SP
Authors: Moraes Maria Cristina de , Gabas Sandra Garcia , Melo Mário Sérgio de , Fernandes Luiz Alberto , Coimbra Armando Márcio
Published: November 2013

Estudos recentes conduziram à redefinição da Formação Pariqüera-Açu (Terciário continental do baixo Ribeira do Iguape), dividindo-a nas seguintes unidades independentes entre si: Formação Sete Barras, Formação Pariqüera-Açu, cascalhos em nível topográfico superior de terraços, cascalhos em nível intermediário de terraços e depósitos colúvio-aluviais. Esta subdivisão baseou-se em critérios litológicos, relações estratigráficas, distribuição em área e relações com feições tectônicas e geomorfológicas. Neste artigo são apresentados os principais dados sedimentológicos (análises granulométricas, minerais pesados e minerais de argila) que apoiaram a redefinição da Formação Pariqüera-Açu e a interpretação da evolução tectono-sedimentar cenozóica da área. Eles permitiram interpretar os processos envolvidos na sedimentação dos depósitos: somente tração para os cascalhos dos dois níveis de terraços; tração, fluxos densos (corridas de lamas) e suspensão para todas as outras unidades. Mostraram que a maior imaturidade mineralógica é apresentada justamente pelos cascalhos. Mostraram também que argilas esmectíticas ocorrem somente em sedimentos da Formação Sete Barras. Estes resultados subsidiaram a interpretação dos sistemas deposicionais envolvidos na sedimentação e forneceram indícios sobre o clima reinante à época
Modeling and Global Sensitivity Analysis of a Solar Powered Air Cooling System Using Liquid Desiccant
Authors: Rakotondramiarana Hery Tiana , Andrianomena Sambatra Hagatiana , Andriamamonjy Ando Ludovic , Rakotomalala Minoson Sendrahasina
Published: November 2013

Solar energy technology is an option for energy saving in building air conditioning. A theoretical investigation of an open cycle solar air cooling system using aqueous Lithium Chloride solution as liquid desiccant is presented in this paper. The purpose of this work is to analyze the influences of both internal loads and external forcing, on the studied system by developing a computational code related to its mathematical model. The simulation results justify the choice of the system design. Indeed, it was highlighted that the higher is the outdoor temperature; the better is the coefficient of performance (COP) of the system. Furthermore, a global sensitivity analysis of the system model, achieved using Fourier Amplitude Sensitivity Test method, allowed us to identify the most influential factors that were ranked in a decreasing order of their influence degree on the system COP. Hence, key factors to be controlled for improving the system overall performance are specified.
Entre local et global : l’alimentation polynésienne
Authors: Mallol Christophe Serra
Published: November 2013

Les interactions entre influences globales, mondialisées et de type occidental, et traditions locales différenciées forment le tissu de l’expérience humaine contemporaine. La généralisation de la circulation des capitaux, des biens, des idées et des hommes, ainsi que la prise de conscience de leur interconnexion, sont constitutifs du processus de globalisation, notamment dans le domaine de l’alimentation. Lieu privilégié de rencontre du global et du local, une anthropologie de l’alimentation polynésienne permet la mise en évidence d’un processus d’adaptation du local au global, une forme de « glocalisation alimentaire ». Appliquée aux Îles de la Société et à Rapa (Polynésie française), elle met en évidence la complexité mouvante des interrelations qui lient les hommes entre eux, à leurs traditions et à des influences exogènes. La prise de conscience par les acteurs sociaux de nouvelles formes de modèles normatifs possibles permet de dépasser les modèles alimentaires parfois vécus comme imposés, entre résistance, adaptation et création hybride.
Artisans du pays et imaginaires fromagers
Authors: Boulianne Manon
Published: November 2013

Au cours de la dernière décennie, les fromages « fins » du Québec sont devenus des aliments vedettes dans les médias, les livres de recette et sur les tables. Les stratégies de mise en marché dont ils font l’objet les présentent comme des produits issus de savoir-faire constituant un patrimoine immatériel à valoriser et emblématiques des terroirs régionaux. Pourtant, la plupart d’entre eux résultent d’innovations récentes et relèvent davantage d’une tradition inventée que de pratiques ancestrales. De plus, leur authenticité professée en tant que produits artisanaux ne correspond pas toujours aux processus de production dont ils sont issus. À partir, notamment, d’une enquête menée auprès de mangeurs et de mangeuses, l’auteure interroge les processus qui contribuent à la qualification des fromages fins en tant que produits de terroir et à la valorisation de l’authenticité dans le régime de valeur au sein duquel ils sont produits, circulent et sont consommés.
Learning about Autism
Authors: Baker Sidney M.
Published: November 2013

A medical essay written in 1923 pointed out the fallacy of blaming a chronic illness on the name of a disease. The focus of treatment should be the individual, not the disease. With a focus on options based on the individuality of each patient, I ask a simple two-part question: Does my patient need to avoid or be rid of substances and/or to be provided with substances that would favor nature's impulse toward healing?

In my academic training as a physician, I learned that a clinically effective stance favored an optimistic intent combined with the objective application of my skills—refined though the practice of listening, prescribing, and observing outcome. My understanding of autism has rested on a foundation of the individuality of every living thing, the rhythmicity of life, and the balance that characterizes healthy systems. The first autistic child I examined struck me with a nonverbal message: “I am in here; see me.”

The recognition of the role of bacterial toxins amplified my notion that a general disorder of the microbiome underlies the loss of immune tolerance that accompanies the global state of sensitivity found in individuals in the autism spectrum. Depletion of organisms that have populated the human gut since before the dawn of our species arises as the most recent elevation of my learning curve.
Preparation of Diamond-Like Carbon on Ti Film with Tetramethylsilane Buffer Layer
Authors: Kaneko Satoru , Horiuchi Takahiro , Ito Takeshi , Takagi Shin-ichi , Yasui Manabu , Saitoh Mitsuhiro , Matsunaga Takashi , Ikenaga Kaoru , Yasuhara Shigeo , Mihirogi Katsuhiro , Kobayashi Masazumi , Kumagai Masao , Shimodaira Eiji , Sudo Rieko
Published: November 2013

Diamond-like carbon (DLC) has been applied as a coating material to improve the basic properties of strength, chemical stability, and biocompatibility. In this study, a DLC film was prepared on a titanium (Ti) coating film with tetramethylsilane (TMS) buffer for application in vivo. Although the surface roughness of the Ti film increased with increasing Ti thickness, both TMS and DLC coatings deposited on Ti films resulted in the formation of a flat surface. Observation of the initial growth of the TMS layer indicated that a TMS buffer of more than 50 nm thickness was required for DLC coating even on the flat surface of the Ti thin film.