bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Infinite reflection models for the visual arts
Authors: Inakage Masa
Published: November 2006

Artists do not always pursue photographic realism. The image abstraction and deformation of three‐dimensional scenes are methods to communicate ideas. Images are the visual interpretation of real life or imaginary scenes. This paper describes the idea of an infinite reflection model in which synthetic objects to be rendered are surrounded by closed reflective surfaces. The closed mirror surfaces create the ‘feedback’ effect which deforms objects inside the reflective space. Lens distortion effects are achieved by surrounding infinitely reflective curved surfaces. This technique provides a new visual tool for artists and graphic designers.
Visualization of polymer systems
Authors: Münkel Christian , Heermann Dieter W.
Published: November 2006

The combination of computer simulations of polymer systems and three‐dimensional scientific visualization of these systems is discussed in this paper.
Integrated software, process, algorithm and application visualization
Authors: Friedell Mark , Kochhar Sandeep , Lapolla Mark Vincent , Marks Joe
Published: November 2006

We present a unifying view of visualization in which comprehensive support for software, algorithm, process and application (including scientific) visualizations is treated as an essential component of the computing environment. We describe our recent work toward making this view a reality: a tool for computer‐assisted design of visualizations and a technique for monitoring a computational process in a non‐invasive fashion.
Visualizing complex biological interactions in the soil ecosystem
Authors: Liddell Craig M. , Hansen Deren
Published: November 2006

Scientific visualization is proving very promising for the study of biological interactions at the organismal level in porous opaque media. We present our research in visualizing and modelling fungal and plant root development and interactions in the soil. Because the dynamic biological properties of the soil ecosystem can be observed in only the crudest fashion, we emphasize the fundamental link between visualization and modelling. Our research focuses along the parallel lines of imaging actual phenomena and of modelling these same phenomena. Many soil organisms, such as plants and fungi, exist predominately in a vegetative state which is highly branched, non‐random and non‐homogeneous. This structure itself is important to dynamic process such as parasitism of one organism by another, yet due to the opacity of soil, structure is difficult to observe and dynamic interactions are impossible to observe. The modelling of growth patterns and interactions of fungi and plant roots with the concomitant use of visualization and rigorous model validation provides the best method to build a working concept, which is faithful to the spatial organization of the real world. We hypothesize that the genetic determinants controlling growth and interactions operate both inside and outside the soil environment. We conclude that visualization provides a means by which spatial extrapolation of laboratory observations may be made to the real world, providing both model validation and a means to build mechanistically‐based hypotheses about different types of dynamic phenomena in the soil ecosystem, which can be tested in the field.
Rolling on a smooth biparametric surface
Authors: Hégron Gérard
Published: November 2006

In this paper we present a method to calculate the rolling of a rigid convex object on a smooth biparametric surface where a single contact point is maintained during the animation. The object's motion is computed using a prediction‐correction schema. The prediction computes the motion of the object rolling on the tangent plane at the current contact point. The next contact point is obtained by projecting the predicted point onto the curved surface. A correction is made according to the local surface curvature. An algorithm which calculates the initial contact point between the surface and the object is given. The rolling of a ball is presented as an example.
Normal vector generation for sampled data using fourier filtering
Authors: Goss Michael E. , Page Ivor P.
Published: November 2006

A three‐dimensional surface is a useful graphic representation of a two‐dimensional function which has been sampled on a regular grid. Shading the surface to simulate the effects of direct lighting makes visible small changes in the surface orientation, and enhances realism when the data represents a physical surface such as terrain. Shading interpolation calculations and surface patch generation techniques require the specification of a surface normal vector (or related slope information) at each sample point. These normal vectors are usually generated by averaging local data such as the normal vectors of the surfaces of a triangular mesh connecting the points. This paper describes a technique which uses Fourier filtering to generate normal vectors for two‐dimensional sampled data. Images and analysis of frequency spectra are included to show how this technique preserves detail which is lost using the averaging method. Performance figures show that this enhancement of detail in the final image can be achieved for only a small increase in computation time.
Sequential‐goal constraints for computer animation
Authors: Liu Wen‐Bang , Ko Ming‐Tat , Chang Ruei‐Chuan
Published: November 2006

The dynamic constraints technique has been proposed for building geometrical models composed of rigid bodies, which are made to act naturally, according to Newtonian laws, by specifying constraints on their states. In computer animation, the dynamic constraints technique alleviates the work‐load of animators who formerly had to plan animated sequences in detail by intuition alone. Nevertheless, for some real‐world applications, it is desirable to have a mechanism that makes physically‐based elements move according to a given scenario by providing some control states. The control states can be represented by transient constraints that are to be met and then released immediately. In this paper, a technique called the sequential‐goal constraints technique is proposed to provide such a mechanism. With the sequential‐goal constraints technique, it is easy to specify transient constraints according to a given scenario and derive proper forces and torques to drive an element to meet each transient constraint exactly at a specified time so that the whole motion of the element is continuous and integral.
Modelling and animation of generalized cylinders with variable radius offset space curves
Authors: Kim Myung‐Soo , Park Eun‐Joo , Lee Hwan‐Yong
Published: November 2006

A method is presented for the modelling and animation of generalized cylinders with variable radius offset space curves. The boundary surface of a generalized cylinder is constructed: either as a translational sweep of cross‐sectional curves along the skeleton curve, or as a rotational sweep of profile curves around the skeleton curve. The cross‐sectional curves are computed as the variable radius offset curves of a circle in the normal plane, and the profile curves are computed as the variable radius offset space curves of the skeleton curve. The offset curves are approximated by spline curves, and the boundary surface of a generalized cylinder is approximated by the tensor product surface patches of the offset spline curves.
Collision response for deformable models based on hertz's contact theory
Authors: Terasawa Mikio , Kimura Fumihiko
Published: November 2006

This paper presents an animation technique of collision response for deformable models defined as a spring‐mass‐damper system. Our approach is to calculate impulsive forces to prevent penetration of colliding objects by means of Hertz's contact theory. With this theory, contact duration and deformation in collision are obtained according to physical properties such as mass and elasticity. Animators, therefore, can represent the differences between materials such as rubber and steel in the sequence of collision animations with a few intuitive physical parameters. We also describe a deformation mapping technique which reduces the computational time of dynamic analysis and realizes the effect of global deformation.
Animated human agents with motion planning capability for 3D‐space postural goals
Authors: Jung Moon‐Ryul , Badler Norman , Noma Tsukasa
Published: November 2006

In this paper, we present a rule‐based heuristic method of motion planning for an animated human agent with massively redundant degrees of freedom. It constructs motion plans to achieve 3D‐space goals of control points on the body, e.g. a hand, while avoiding collisions. Like the artificial potential field approach, the method performs motion decisions in 3D world space rather than in joint space. To handle the massively redundant degrees of freedom, we use a qualitative kinematic model, which specifies motions of body parts and dependencies among them, without specifying the exact distance parameters. This model helps the body select appropriate primitive motions for given goals of control points more globally than does the gradient vector of an artificial potential field of the body. The method simulates (in imagination) the suggested plan to find whether some body parts hit objects, and how much they penetrate the objects. Based on this simulated collision information, the method suggests intermediate goals of the collision body parts. A subplan to achieve these intermediate goals is again postulated by using the qualitative kinematic model. This explicit reasoning helps alleviate the basic cause of local minima in the potential field approach, namely, conflicts between attractive potential fields due to goal positions of control points and repulsive potential fields due to obstacles.
Automatic background music generation based on actors' mood and motions
Authors: Nakamura Jun‐Ichi , Kaku Tetsuya , Hyun Kyungsil , Noma Tsukasa , Yoshida Sho
Published: November 2006

Since adding background music and sound effects even to short animations is not simple, an automatic music generation system would help improve the total quality of computer generated animations. This paper describes a prototype system which automatically generates background music and sound effects for existing animations. The inputs to the system are music parameters (mood types and musical motifs) and motion parameters for individual scenes of an animation. Music is generated for each scene. The key for a scene is determined by considering the mood type and its degree, and the key of the previous scene. The melody for a scene is generated from the given motifs and the chord progression for the scene which is determined according to appropriate rules. The harmony accompaniment for a scene is selected based on the mood type. The rhythm accompaniment for a scene is selected based on the mood type and tempo. The sound effects for motions are determined according to the characteristics and intensity of the motions. Both the background music and sound effects are generated so that the transitions between scenes are smooth.
Order‐controlled free‐form animation
Authors: Bechmann Dominique , Dubreuil Nicolas
Published: November 2006

This paper introduces an animation system directed by order. High‐level operations such as moving, turning, rolling and bouncing on a flat surface provide an easy‐to‐use interface to build animations. The underlying animation system relies on a constraint‐based deformation model.

Previously, to build an animation the user had to break up the desired animation into a list of deformations composed of a set of constraints. In addition to each constraint, he had to control the size and the shape of the deformed area as well as the shape of the deformation. The goal of the order‐controlled animation is to encapsulate all the parameters of the deformations. Indeed, using these high‐level operations the underlying deformations are completely transparent to the user.

Before introducing these operations, we will present some extensions of the deformation model such as the generalized shape of the deformed area and a rotating movement combined with the deformation. We also explain how to control velocity and acceleration.
Genetic programming for articulated figure motion
Authors: Gritz L. , Hahn J. K.
Published: November 2006

We present an approach to articulated figure motion in which motion tasks are defined in terms of goals and ratings. The agents are dynamically‐controlled robots whose behaviour is determined by robotic controller programs. The controller programs for the robots are evaluated at each time step to yield torque values which drive the dynamic simulation of the motion. We use the AI technique of genetic programming (GP) to automatically derive control programs for the agents which achieve the goals. This type of motion specification is an alternative to key framing which allows a highly automated, learning‐based approach to generation of motion. This method of motion control is very general (it can be applied to any type of motion), yet it allows for specifications of the types of specific motion which are desired for a high quality animation. We show that complex, specific, physically plausible and aesthetically appealing motion can be generated using these methods.
N‐body spacetime constraints
Authors: Tang Diane , Ngo J. Thomas , Marks Joe
Published: November 2006

Animators frequently choreograph complex motions for multiple objects that interact through collision and obstruction. In such situations, the use of physically based dynamics to confer visual realism creates challenging computational problems. Typically forward simulation is well understood, but the inverse problem of motion synthesis—that of synthesizing motions consistent both with physical law and with the animator's requirements—is generally tedious and sometimes intractable. We show how N‐body inverse problems can be formulated as optimization tasks. We present a simply stated, but combinatorially formidable example that exhibits all of the essential sources of complexity common to N‐body motion synthesis, and show how it can be solved approximately using heuristic methods based on evolutionary computation.
Visual simulation of water currents using a particle‐based behavioural model
Authors: Chiba Norishige , Sanakanishi Shinji , Yokoyama Kenichiro , Isao  , Ootawara  , Muraoka Kazunobu , Saito Nobuji
Published: November 2006

Several CG researchers have simulated impressive ocean waves so far. Recently, other researchers have succeeded in simulating waterfalls by employing a mass of particles. However, visual simulation of water currents having complex surfaces, such as mountain streams and turbulent water, still remains a challenging problem thanks to their complicated patterns of behaviour. Effective simulation methods for water currents are expected to have abilities to represent the following remarkable behavioural visual features of water: the appearance of a pool, an obstacle avoidance flow, a fluent flow, a flow into an open space, the collision and the confluence of flows and the occurrence of splashes.

In this paper, we present a new type of particle‐based simulation method for complex water currents which is not based on strict fluid dynamics but rather classified into a ‘quasi‐physically‐based’ simulation method constructed on the basis of algorithmic approaches. We first present a simple behavioural model of a ‘water‐particle’. Next, we propose a method for generating CG images of water currents from a set of water‐particles. Finally, we demonstrate the ability of our method by showing several examples of the simulation.
Modelling radiative properties of light sources and surfaces
Authors: Paul J. C. , Deville P. M. , Winkler C.
Published: November 2006

This paper describes methods that can be used for modelling radiative properties of light sources and materials, in a radiosity computation algorithm. These methods have been designed in order to improve the photo‐realistic rendering of complex architectural scenes as well as to allow illumination engineering applications. They are based on the accurate modelling of the spatial and spectral emittance distributions of the light sources, and the surface reflectance/transmittance distributions from measurement, and allow the exact colorimetric properties of the light sources and the surfaces to be calculated. A method for changing radiosity inputs during the radiosity process, without recalculating the solution entirely is also proposed. This allows modifications in design or dynamic lighting effects to be simulated more interactively.
Microwave assisted low temperature synthesis of MnZn ferrite nanoparticles
Authors: Zhenyu Lai , Guangliang Xu , Yalin Zheng
Published: November 2006

MnZnFe2O4ferrite nanoparticles were prepared by co-precipitation method using a microwave heating system at temperature of 100 °C. X-ray diffraction reveals the samples as prepared are pure ferrite nanocrystalline phase, transmission electron microscopy image analysis shows particles are in agglomeration state with an average size of about 10 nm, furthermore, crystal size of samples are increased with longer microwave heating.
Cloning and characterization of a cDNA encoding diacylglycerol acyltransferase from castor bean
Authors: He Xiaohua , Turner Charlotta , Chen Grace Q. , Lin Jiann‐Tsyh , McKeon Thomas A.
Published: November 2006

The oil from castor seed (Ricinus communis) contains 90% ricinoleate, a hydroxy FA that is used in producing numerous industrial products. Castor diacylglycerol acyltransferase (RcDGAT) is a critical enzyme, as it catalyzes the terminal step in castor oil biosynthesis in which the products contain two or three ricinoleoyl moieties. We have isolated a cDNA encoding RcDGAT from developing castor seeds. Analysis of the sequence reveals that this cDNA encodes a protein of 521 amino acids with a molecular mass of 59.9 kDa. Although there are regions of high similarity to other plant DGAT coding sequences, there are sequences that distinguish it as well. Southern blot analysis suggests that the castor genome contains a single copy of RcDGAT. Analysis by reverse transcription‐PCR reveals that the accumulation of the mRNA reaches its highest level at 19 d after pollination and declines thereafter. Expression of the full‐length cDNA for RcDGAT in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain INVSc1 results in sevenfold higher DGAT activity compared with controls. When different molecular species of DAG were provided as substrates to the microsomal mixture, the RcDGAT showed a greater preference to catalyze the transfer of oleate from [14C]oleoyl‐CoA to diricinolein than to diolein and dipalmitolein. With the addition of 0.25 mM substrates, diricinolein gave 318 pmol/mg/min diricinoleoyloleoylglycerol (RRO), while diolein and dipalmitolein gave only about 195 pmol/mg/min of triolein (OOO) and 120 pmol/mg/min dipalmitoyleoylglycerol (PoPoO), respectively. This work will facilitate investigation of the role of RcDGAT in castor oil biosynthesis.
Effect of CLA on milk fat synthesis in dairy cows: Comparison of inhibition by methyl esters and free fatty acids, and relationships among studies
Authors: de Veth Michael J. , Griinari J. Mikko , Pfeiffer Angelika‐Maria , Bauman Dale E.
Published: November 2006

CLA is a potent inhibitor of milk fat synthesis, as shown by investigations using mixtures of CLA isomers in FFA form. However, methyl esters of CLA can be initially formed in commercial synthesis, and their use in a supplement has certain manufacturing and cost advantages. Our objective was to compare abomasal infusion of methyl esters of CLA (ME‐CLA) and FFA of CLA (FFA‐CLA) on milk fat synthesis. Data were also combined with previous investigations to examine broader relationships between trans‐10,cis‐12 CLA and the reduction in milk fat. Three mid‐lactation, rumen‐fistulated Holstein cows were used in a 3×3 Latin square design. Treatments were (i) control, (ii) ME‐CLA, and (iii) FFA‐CLA. The ME‐CLA and FFA‐CLA treatments (4.2 g/d trans‐10,cis‐12 CLA) resulted in a comparable reduction in milk fat yield (38 and 39%, respectively) and pattern of reduction in individual FA. In contrast, milk yield, milk protein, and feed intake were unaltered by CLA treatment. Combining data across studies revealed strong correlations relating the reduction in milk fat yield to abomasal dose of trans‐10,cis‐12 CLA (R2=0.86), milk fat content of trans‐10,cis‐12 CLA (R2=0.93), and milk fat secretion of trans‐10,cis‐12 CLA (R2=0.82). Across studies, transfer efficiency of abomasally infused trans‐10,cis‐12 CLA into milk fat was relatively constant (22%; R2=0.94). Overall, ME‐CLA and FFA‐CLA were equally potent in reducing milk fat, and either form could be used to formulate a dietary supplement that would induce milk fat depression.
Positional distribution of decanoic acid: Effect on chylomicron and VLDL TAG structures and postprandial lipemia
Authors: Yli‐Jokipii Kaisa M. , Schwab Ursula S. , Tahvonen Raija L. , Xu Xuebing , Mu Huiling , Kallio Heikki P. T.
Published: November 2006

Although medium‐chain FA (MCFA) are mainly absorbed via the portal venous system, they are also incorporated into chylomicron TAG; therefore, the positional distribution of MCFA in TAG is likely to affect their metabolic fate. We studied chylomicron and VLDL TAG structures, as well as the magnitude of postprandial lipemia, after two oral fat loads containing decanoic acid (10∶0) predominantly at the sn‐1(3),2 (MML) or at the sn‐1,3 positions (MLM) of TAG in a randomized, double‐blind, crossover clinical trial with 10 healthy, normal‐weight volunteers. An MS‐MS method was used to analyze TAG regioisomers. The position of decanoic acid in chylomicron TAG reflected its position in the TAG ingested, and TAG with none, one, two, or three decanoic acid residues were detected after ingestion of both fats. More (P<0.05) 30∶0 and 38∶1 TAG (acyl carbons:double bonds) and fewer 46∶5, 54∶5 and 54∶4 TAG were found in chylomicrons after ingestion of MML than after MLM. The VLDL TAG composition did not differ between the fat loads but did change (P<0.05) 2 to 6 h after ingestion of both fats. No statistical differences were seen between the fat loads in areas under the plasma, chylomicron, or VLDL TAG response curves or in FFA concentrations. Thus, the positional distribution of MCFA in TAG affects their metabolic, fate, but the magnitude of postprandial lipemia does not seem to be dependent on the positional distribution of MCFA in the ingested fat.
Cytoplasmic pH‐dependent spreading of polymorphonuclear leukocytes: Regulation by pH of PKC subcellular distribution and F‐actin assembly
Authors: Suzuki Kingo , Namiki Hideo
Published: November 2006

Cytoplasmic pH (pHi) plays an important role in the regulation of polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN) spreading, but the molecular mechanisms involved have long been obscure. In the present study, we investigated the pH‐dependence of phorbol myristate acetate (PMA)‐induced PMN spreading. A change in pHi alone did not induce spreading, but cytoplasmic alkalinization promoted the spreading induced by PMA, whereas acidification inhibited it. To further investigate the mechanism by which pHi affects cell spreading, we employed subcellular fractionation and immunoblot analyses to evaluate the effect of pH on the subcellular distribution of protein kinase C (PKC) and assembly of the actin cytoskeleton. We found that cytoplasmic alkalinization enhanced PKC membrane distribution and quantitatively up‐regulated the actin cytoskeleton. On the other hand, cytoplasmic acidification was found to have effects on these signaling molecules that were opposite to those of cytoplasmic alkalinization. These results may provide a potential explanation for the pH‐regulation of the PMA‐induced PMN spreading.
A promoter switch that can rescue a plant sigma factor mutant
Authors: Schweer Jennifer , Loschelder Heike , Link Gerhard
Published: November 2006

Chloroplasts sigma factors act in concert with PEP, the bacterial‐type plastid RNA polymerase. Using a sigma knockout line from Arabidopsis thaliana, we investigated mutant‐specific changes in plastid gene expression at RNA level. One characteristic feature was the appearance of a long transcript that spans the atpB‐E operon and extends considerably into the far‐upstream region of atpB. This region reveals a cluster of typical promoter elements for NEP, the second (phage‐type) plastid RNA polymerase. The NEP promoter cluster can help maintain RNA synthesis in situations where no functional sigma factor is available for PEP.
Constitutive activation of the ERK‐MAPK pathway in the suprachiasmatic nuclei inhibits circadian resetting
Authors: Hainich Ernesto C. , Pizzio Gastón A. , Golombek Diego A.
Published: November 2006

Circadian entrainment involves photic stimulation of the suprachiasmatic molecular oscillator, including activation of the ERK/MAP kinase, which is phosphorylated endogenously during the day and in response to light during the night. We aimed to disrupt the diurnal cycle of ERK phosphorylation by in vivo transfection of a constitutively active form of MEK, a MAPK kinase. This procedure did not affect normal circadian parameters, but completely inhibited light‐induced phase advances. Therefore, circadian regulation of the ERK pathway is not essential for the normal mechanism of the biological clock, but it is fundamental as an interface with environmental entrainment by light.
Structural determination of dihydro‐ and tetrahydrogeranylgeranyl groups at the 17‐propionate of bacteriochlorophylls‐a
Authors: Mizoguchi Tadashi , Harada Jiro , Tamiaki Hitoshi
Published: November 2006

In the final stage of bacteriochlorophyll (BChl) biosynthesis, the presence of BChl‐a molecules possessing dihydrogeranylgeranyl and tetrahydrogeranylgeranyl groups at the 17‐propionate has been reported. However, the molecular structures of such BChls‐a have not yet been determined in terms of the positions of CC double bonds in the 172‐ester. In this study, we isolated significant amounts of such pure BChls‐a from Rhodopseudomonas palustris and determined their structures by both mass spectrometry and 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy. The determined structures enable us to discuss a stepwise reduction from a geranylgeranyl to phytyl substituent.
Syndrome stability and psychological predictors of symptom severity in idiopathic environmental intolerance and somatoform disorders
Authors: BAILER JOSEF , WITTHÖFT MICHAEL , BAYERL CHRISTIANE , RIST FRED
Published: November 2006

Background. Previous studies suggest that idiopathic environmental intolerance (IEI) is a variant of somatoform disorders (SFDs) or the so-called functional somatic syndromes. Little is known, however, about the stability and the psychological predictors of IEI.

Method. This prospective study examined the 1-year stability of somatic symptoms and IEI features in three diagnostic groups: 49 subjects with IEI, 43 subjects with SFD but without IEI, and 54 subjects (control group, CG) with neither IEI nor SFD. The predictive value of typical psychological predictors for somatization was tested using zero-order correlations and multiple linear regression analyses.

Results. Somatic symptoms and IEI features proved to be temporally stable over the 1-year follow-up period. The SFD and IEI groups scored significantly higher than CG on all measures of somatic symptoms and on questionnaires assessing psychological predictors for somatization. Measures of trait negative affectivity (NA), somatic symptom attribution and somatosensory amplification predicted somatic symptom severity within the IEI and SFD groups, both at baseline and 1 year later. The strongest predictors of IEI complaints in the IEI group were somatic attributions, followed by prominent cognitions of environmental threat and a tendency to focus on unpleasant bodily sensations and to consider them as pathological.

Conclusions. IEI and SFD are highly stable conditions. In both SFD and IEI, NA and the processes of symptom perception, interpretation and attribution contribute substantially to the persistence of typically somatoform symptoms and IEI complaints. Treatment of IEI and SFD should address these psychological factors and mechanisms.
Review and critical discussion of assumptions and modelling options to study the spread of the bovine viral diarrhoea virus (BVDV) within a cattle herd
Authors: VIET A.-F. , FOURICHON C. , SEEGERS H.
Published: November 2006

Relevance of epidemiological models depends on assumptions on the population structure and dynamics, on the biology of the host–parasite interaction, and on mathematical modelling. In this paper we reviewed published models of the bovine viral diarrhoea virus (BVDV) spread within a herd. Modelling options and assumptions on herd dynamics and BVDV transmission were discussed. A cattle herd is a population with a controlled size. Animals are separated into subgroups according to their age or their physiological status inducing heterogeneity of horizontal transmission. Complexity of models results from: (1) horizontal and vertical virus transmission, (2) birth of persistently infected animals, (3) excretion by transiently and persistently infected animals. Areas where there was a lack of knowledge were identified. Assumptions on the force of infection used to model the horizontal virus transmission were presented and discussed. We proposed possible ways of improving models (e.g. force of infection, validation) and essential model features for further BVDV models.
Specific detection ofCampylobacter jejunifrom faeces using single nucleotide polymorphisms
Authors: Best E. L. , Fox A. J. , Owen R. J. , Cheesbrough J. , Bolton F. J.
Published: November 2006

Specimens of human faeces were tested by a rapid strategy for detection ofCampylobacter jejunilineages by the presence of specific single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) based on theC. jejunimulti locus sequence typing (MLST) scheme. This strategy was derived from analysis of the MLST databases to identify clonal complex specific SNPs followed by the design of real-time PCR assays to enable identification of six majorC. jejuniclonal complexes associated with cases of human infection. The objective was to use the MLST SNP-based assays for the direct detection ofC. jejuniby clonal complex from specimens of human faeces, and then confirm the accuracy of the clonal complex designation from the SNP-based assays by performing MLST on the cultured faecal material, this targeted at determining the validity of direct molecular specimen identification. Results showed it was possible to identify 38% of the isolates to one of the six major MLST clonal complexes using a rapid DNA extraction method directly from faeces in under 3 h. This method provides a novel strategy for the use of real-time PCR for detection and characterization beyond species level, supplying real-time epidemiological data, which is comparable with MLST results.
Combining averting behavior and contingent valuation data: an application to drinking water treatment in Brazil
Authors: ROSADO MARCIA A. , CUNHA-E-SÁ MARIA A. , DUCLA-SOARES MARIA M. , NUNES LUIS C.
Published: November 2006

This paper estimates WTP for drinking water quality in Brazil by combining averting behavior with contingent valuation data. Using bivariate probit models, alternative structures allowing for heteroscedasticity between and within data sources are incorporated by taking advantage of the different information content that characterizes each data source. We look at two covariates not yet examined in the literature when combining stated and revealed preferred data to explain the variance in the models: income and the bid in the contingent valuation questionnaire. Tests for parameter equality across data sets are performed. The results suggest that the specification of heteroscedasticity has a significant impact in WTP estimates and is crucial to legitimate the combination of data sets from different origins. The significant differences found in WTP between the two sources are discussed.
Price linkages in Pacific tuna markets: implications for the South Pacific Tuna Treaty and the Western and Central Pacific region
Authors: SQUIRES DALE , KIM TAEKWON , JEON YONGIL , CLARKE RAYMOND
Published: November 2006

A revenue-sharing arrangement is under consideration between the USA and Western and Central Pacific Island Parties. When the ex-vessel price for cannery-grade skipjack tuna is above a minimum price, Pacific Island Parties would share in the increased revenue. This arrangement would provide economic incentives to these island nations to control fishing capacity and thereby increase revenues and economic rents. This potential arrangement raises the issue of which market and species prices to use as a benchmark, Bangkok or Pago-Pago; American Samoa and skipjack or yellowfin tuna. This paper, through a time series analysis of spatial price linkages, finds price leadership for skipjack in Bangkok. Macroeconomic and regional economic implications of enhanced price stability and higher revenues in the region are also discussed.
Measuring the socioeconomic impacts of China's Natural Forest Protection Program
Authors: SHEN YUEQIN , LIAO XIANCHUN , YIN RUNSHENG
Published: November 2006

China has been implementing one of the world's largest ecological rehabilitation projects, the Natural Forest Protection Program (NFPP), to improve its fragile and precarious environmental conditions. This paper measures the socioeconomic impacts of the NFPP using input–output (I–O) models. We find that the NFPP will expand the annual output of the forest sectors by 5.8 billion Yuan and the whole economy by 8.9 billion Yuan by 2010. Employment will increase by 0.84 million in the forest sectors and by 0.93 million in the whole economy. Associated with the enormous expansion of forest protection and management are huge contributions to mitigating water runoff, soil erosion, flooding, and biodiversity loss. The investments and adjustments are thus worthwhile, if the program is properly implemented. The challenges are to transform loggers into tree planters and forest managers and to ensure that the financial and institutional commitments by the local and national governments will be materialized.
In what form can ‘live electronic music’ live on?
Authors: EMMERSON SIMON
Published: November 2006

In 1991 I wrote a short article comparing three ‘live electronic’ ensembles based in the UK and active in the late 1960s and 1970s (one into the 1980s) (Emmerson 1991). It was only in the final stages of preparation of this paper for presentation at the EMS05 conference in Montreal that I realised that the death of Hugh Davies on 1 January 2005 meant that a key member of each of the three ensembles was no longer with us. This article is thus dedicated to Barry Anderson (1935–1987, founder and director of the West Square Electronic Music Ensemble), Tim Souster (1943–1994, co-founder of Intermodulation) and Hugh Davies (1943–2005, founder member of Gentle Fire). The fact that they can no longer describe, elucidate and explain the repertoire that they created is directly pertinent to this paper. While its practitioners must inevitably (though hopefully not so prematurely) move on, as we celebrate Mozart's 250th birthday with performances of the vast majority of his compositions, we must ask ‘in what form live electronic music can live on’
Time to re-wire? Problems and strategies for the maintenance of live electronics
Authors: POLFREMAN RICHARD , SHEPPARD DAVID , DEARDEN IAN
Published: November 2006

While much work is proceeding with regard to the preservation and restoration of audio documents in general and compositions for tape in particular, relatively little research has been published with regard to the issues of preserving compositions for live electronics. Such works often involve a distinct performance element difficult to capture in a single recording, and it is typically only in performance that such works can be experienced as the composer intended. However, performances can become difficult or even impossible to present over time due to data and/or equipment issues. Sustainability here therefore refers to the effective recording of all the information necessary to set up the live electronics for a performance. Equally, it refers to the availability of appropriate devices, as rapid technological change soon makes systems obsolete and manufacturers discontinue production. The authors have had a range of experience re-working performances over a number of years, including compositions by Luigi Nono and Jonathan Harvey, amongst others. In this paper we look at the problem as a whole, focusing on Jonathan Harvey's works with electronic elements, which span some twenty-six years, as exemplars of the types of problems involved.
A model for the conservation of interactive electroacoustic repertoire: analysis, reconstruction, and performance in the face of technological obsolescence
Authors: WETZEL DAVID BROOKE
Published: November 2006

This paper presents a three-stage model (analysis, reconstruction and performance) for the conservation of interactive electroacoustic works for which the original technology is now obsolete or otherwise unavailable. The first stage, analysis, is a detailed documentation of the electronic processes and effects required for each work in a format that is independent of any specific device or system. The analysis provides a blueprint for future realisations using available technology. The second stage, reconstruction, provides a working performance resource, as well as a test case for the validity of the analysis. Reconstructed systems are then tested and refined through the third stage, performance. With repeated performances, compositions gain wider exposure and may be evaluated by listeners on their musical merits. To date, the author has analysed, reconstructed and performed several works for clarinet and interactive electronics. Each performance has informed the continued development of the newly reconstructed system, and has in some cases led to corrections to the underlying analysis. As a classically trained clarinettist and computer musician, the author's approach to the conservation of electroacoustic repertoire comes from a desire to find performable works and to keep them viable and accessible for as long as possible. Four works for clarinet and interactive electronics (by Musgrave, Pennycook, Kramer, and Lippe) are presented as test cases for this model.
Cloud optical thickness retrievals from ground‐based pyranometer measurements
Authors: Qiu Jinhuan
Published: November 2006

A method is developed to retrieve total cloud optical thickness (COT) from global solar radiation (GSR) detected by ground‐based pyranometer, and approaches to input aerosol/molecular/gas parameters for COT retrievals are presented. On the basis of numerical simulations and comparative tests, main error factors of COT retrievals are analyzed, which include radiation data error, cloud inhomogeneity, uncertainties of aerosol optical parameters, and surface albedo. The retrieved COT error, caused by a –5% or 5% systematic error of the GSR measurement, is within ±0.6 and ±5.0 for COT ranges of 0–5.0 and 5–100, respectively. The AOT, the aerosol single scatter albedo (SSA), and the surface albedo are three significant parameters affecting COT retrieval accuracy. The mean SSA in the pyranometer spectral response range and the broadband surface albedo are suitably used in the retrievals. If uncertainties of AOT, SSA, and surface albedo are within ±0.1, ±0.05, and ±0.05, respectively, the retrieval accuracy is accepted for most applications. Furthermore, COTs (τPyr) from pyranometer data at two meteorological observatories are compared with COTs (τISCCP) from ISCCP and COTs (τMODIS) from MODIS. The relative standard deviations between monthly mean τPyr and τMODIS, or τPyr and τISCCP, are all less than 45.4% for both sites. The agreement among the yearly mean τPyr,τMODIS, and τISCCP is satisfactory. The absolute (relative) deviations between the yearly mean τPyr and τMODIS are within ±1.55 (8%) for both sites, and the deviations between the τPyr and τISCCP are within ±1.94 (25%). The yearly mean τPyr also agrees considerably well with τISCCP in the broken cloud case.
Solar cycle effects on modes of low‐frequency circulation variability
Authors: Huth Radan , Pokorná Lucie , Bochníček Josef , Hejda Pavel
Published: November 2006

Modes of low‐frequency variability in the 500 hPa heights in the Northern Hemisphere are investigated separately by means of rotated principal component analysis for low, moderate, and high solar activity. The study is based on monthly values from 54 extended winter seasons (December to March, 1950–2003). The modes identified correspond well with the patterns described in the comprehensive studies of the low‐frequency circulation variability. All the modes exhibit variations in their spatial extent, position of action centers, and intensity in response to the solar activity. Two of the modes disappear under a particular phase of the solar cycle: The East Pacific pattern is absent under solar minima, whereas the tropical/North American pattern disappears under solar maxima. Under the high solar activity the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) tends to split into two modes, one of which resembles the original NAO shifted to the west, while the other consists of a wave train centered over the Mediterranean and reaching to central Asia. Under a high solar activity, zonal modes tend to be more intensive, whereas the meridionally oriented modes tend to be less active. A general tendency is that under solar maxima the modes are more zonal, their teleconnections span longer distances, and their action centers occupy larger areas. The one‐point correlation maps for the action centers of the modes indicate that the changes in the appearance of the modes can be attributed to two major mechanisms: (1) autocorrelation structures change between different phases of the solar cycle and (2) the weight (intensity) of the autocorrelation structures with which they operate is changing, which results in geographical shifts of the modes.
Satellite monitoring of the first indirect aerosol effect: Retrieval of the droplet concentration of water clouds
Authors: Boers Reinout , Acarreta Juan R. , Gras John L.
Published: November 2006

A model for the vertical variation of microphysical and optical properties of single‐layer water clouds is used to design a procedure to obtain cloud droplet concentration from satellite cloud optical thickness/effective radius retrievals. The model allows for smooth vertical variations in microphysical variables including droplet concentration and liquid water content. The procedure is applied to data from the MODIS instrument aboard the EOS‐TERRA satellite platform over a region near Cape Grim, Tasmania, over the Southern Ocean. At this unpolluted location, there are seasonally repeated well‐described variations in cloud condensation nucleus concentration. The satellite observations show that there is a factor 2.5 difference in retrieved droplet concentration between the summer and winter seasons as measured over the 4 year period (July 2000 to July 2004). Comparison of these results with cloud condensation nuclei concentrations observed at Cape Grim showed good agreement. Furthermore, for a fixed solar zenith angle cos (45°) cloud albedo varied between 0.45 and 0.55 and exhibited a clear correlation with the retrieved droplet concentration (correlation coefficient R = 0.80). Such correlation was absent between albedo and the second retrieval product, namely the cloud depth.
Assessing the effect of a Saharan dust storm on oxygenated organic compounds at Izaña, Tenerife (July–August 2002)
Authors: Salisbury G. , Williams J. , Gros V. , Bartenbach S. , Xu X. , Fischer H. , Kormann R. , de Reus M. , Zöllner M.
Published: November 2006

In July–August 2002 the field measurement campaign Mineral Dust and Tropospheric Chemistry (MINATROC) was carried out at the Global Atmosphere Watch station at Izaña, Tenerife, to study the interaction of mineral dust aerosol and tropospheric chemistry. Organic trace gas mixing ratios were determined for the following: alkanes (e.g., propane); alkenes (isoprene); aromatic compounds (toluene); and oxygenated species (CO, methanol, formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and acetone) simultaneously with aerosol measurements of dust. Local emissions of biogenic (isoprene and methanol) and anthropogenic compounds (CO and toluene) were observed at Izaña by day. Nighttime mixing ratios of organic species were interpreted as representative of the Atlantic free troposphere. A local production and loss budget for formaldehyde suggested that isoprene dominates production by day, and a significant dry deposition velocity is estimated at night of 0.74 cm/s. The total reactivity of the organic trace gases measured to OH is estimated as 1.7 s−1 by day and 0.7 s−1 by night. During the campaign a dense Saharan dust plume, with aerosol masses exceeding 500 μg m−3, persisted for 3 days. Air masses containing dust appeared to be generally more polluted (in acetone and CO) than the prevailing westerly flow, but local biogenic emissions were little affected (e.g., methanol and isoprene). Although during the dust period the daily cycles and the absolute concentrations of some oxygenated species are different (e.g., acetaldehyde), these changes could not be attributed unequivocally to heterogeneous reactions on dust.
Satellite remote sensing of aerosols generated by the Island of Nauru
Authors: Henderson Bradley G. , Chylek Petr , Porch William M. , Dubey Manvendra K.
Published: November 2006

We use imagery from the Multispectral Thermal Imager (MTI) to search for aerosols generated by the Island of Nauru, an island located in the tropical western Pacific Ocean. Nauru frequently displays linear cloud trails for many kilometers downwind of the island, and this study was intended to investigate the presence of aerosols as an aid to understanding those features. The study had three components: (1) a search for specific aerosol plumes, (2) a comparison of downwind and upwind aerosol loading to look for asymmetries, and (3) application of matched filters to increase the visibility of aerosol plumes. The plume search resulted in the finding of three aerosol plumes, two of which are presented as imagery and also radiance profiles. The comparison of downwind and upwind reflectance spectra demonstrated that the radiance is slightly higher downwind of the island, and the residual spectra (downwind minus upwind) have a spectrum consistent with sea salt aerosol. Application of clutter‐matched filters to MTI imagery accentuated the upper (near source) sections of an aerosol plume when utilizing a single‐scatter albedo signature for coarse‐grained sea salt aerosol. We combine our observations with models from the literature to describe a simple mechanism by which Nauru aerosols are created by wave breaking and wind tearing of sea spray and then entrained by island‐influenced wind motions.