bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analyse comparative des températures extrêmes de 1950 a 2100 issues des modèles ARPEGE-Climat et LMD : intérêt pour l’activité viticole champenoise
Authors: Briche Elodie , Madelin Malika , Beltrando Gérard , Kergomard Claude
Published: October 2015

Dans un contexte de changement climatique global, l’évaluation des modifications engendrées sur des échelles fines telles que l’agrosystème viticole champenois s’avère nécessaire, notamment en termes de fréquences des extrêmes thermiques. Ces derniers influencent le bon déroulement des cycles végétatif et productif de la vigne. Cet article traite de l’analyse comparative des séries de températures minimales et maximales journalières issues de quatre points de grille du modèle ARPEGE-Climat, d’un point de grille du modèle du LMD et d’une station de référence du vignoble. Une période de contrôle (1950-2000) permet de mettre en évidence les biais froids des distributions statistiques des sorties de modèles au printemps et en été, notamment en termes d’estimation de fréquences d’extrêmes. Les sorties de modèles des points de grille retenus sont ensuite utilisées pour évaluer l’évolution, jusqu’en 2100, de ces extrêmes climatiques pour trois scénarios prenant en compte les changements socio-économiques du monde. Conformément aux conclusions du GIEC (2007), la fréquence des extrêmes chauds estivaux dans le futur devrait augmenter tandis que les extrêmes froids d’avril, au moment du débourrement, devraient diminuer. Cependant, dans un contexte de changement climatique, le débourrement pourrait être plus précoce et des occurrences d’extrêmes froids printaniers en mars pourraient provoquer un gel accru des bourgeons.
Evolution des saisons des pluies potentiellement utiles au Togo de 1950 a 2000
Authors: Adewi Essotalani , Badameli Kossi M. S. , Dubreuil Vincent
Published: October 2015

Depuis les années 1970, une perturbation du régime pluviométrique est observée au Togo. Elle se caractérise par une désorganisation des saisons potentiellement utiles (SPPU). Entre les périodes 1950-1969 et 1970-2000, on observe un retard des dates moyennes de début des SPPU. Le décalage de début de saison culturale est d’environ un mois de 1950-69 à 1970-2000. Par rapport à la période 1950-69, on observe une fin plus précoce des SPPU d’au moins deux semaines depuis les années 1970 au Nord-Togo. En effet, la région des Savanes enregistrait l’arrêt précoce des pluies du 07 au 21 octobre (1950-69). Depuis 1970, c’est plutôt la bande située entre Kanté et Atakpamé qui connaît cet arrêt prématuré de saisons culturales. Désormais, les pluies cessent plus précocement à l’extrême Nord, entre le 24 septembre et le 06 octobre. A l’exception du Nord-Ouest, les dates de fin des grandes SPPU restent relativement stables dans la zone subéquatoriale. En outre, l’étendue de la variabilité des dates de fin de pluies montre qu’au plus trois semaines séparent l’arrêt précoce et tardif des pluies utiles. Que ce soit en zone soudanienne ou guinéenne, la réduction de la durée des SPPU correspond surtout à une arrivée plus tardive des pluies potentiellement utiles. La péjoration pluviométrique se manifeste donc par une augmentation de la variabilité de la date de début des saisons culturales, la fin de celles-ci restant globalement stable.
L’intérêt de l’utilisation in situ des micropsychromètres de Dixon-Tyree en bioclimatologie : cas d’une plantation d’hévéa en Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Nizinski Jerzy J. , Galat-Luong Anh , Galat Gérard , Lhomme Jean-Paul
Published: October 2015

Le micropsychromètre de Dixon-Tyree jusqu’alors essentiellement utilisé en conditions contrôlées en est encore au stade expérimental sur des peuplements ligneux in situ. Il a été ici utilisé pour la mesure du potentiel hydrique du xylème du tronc et des racines avec une chambre à pression pour la mesure du potentiel foliaire, dans le but de mesurer et comparer les potentiels hydriques des feuilles, du tronc et des racines d’individus d’hévéas dans une plantation en Côte d’Ivoire (mai et septembre 2004). Les mesures de potentiel hydrique du xylème avec le micropsychromètre de Dixon-Tyree ont été jugées fiables, à condition de respecter des contraintes techniques. Ce travail débouche sur un éventuel recalage des mesures et sur une redéfinition du potentiel de base. Les mesures par micropsychromètre, comparées à celles obtenues par chambre à pression ont l’avantage de ne pas être destructives si le capteur est bien installé. Ce dernier peut être laissé sur le tronc deux à trois semaines, sans intervention. Les valeurs issues des premières journées de mesure sont parfois erronées en raison d’un manque d’équilibrage et il est préférable d’attendre le lendemain pour commencer les séries de mesures.
Evapotranspiration variability of different plant types at romanian experimental evapometric measurement stations
Authors: Stan Florentina Iuliana , Neculau Gianina , Zaharia Liliana , Ioana-Toroimac Gabriela
Published: October 2015

This paper analyses the variability of evapotranspiration for different types of plant: grass, peas, corn, and apple trees. It uses data measured at three evapometric stations in Romania and simulated by the CropWat model. The results show differences between the evapotranspiration of different plant types, and the importance of the foliar surface and of a plant’s development stage. Thus, during the growing season (April/May – September), corn and apple tree lose 400 – 500 mm of water by evapotranspiration, peas 360 – 400 mm and grass 310 – 330 mm. The highest water volumes are lost in June – July, months with intense vegetation activity. Evapotranspiration is 100 mm inferior on bare soil than on soil covered by apple trees. These studies will be useful for agricultural purposes in order to estimate the water needs of crops and develop irrigation plans.
Surmortalité des étés caniculaires et surmortalité hivernale en France
Authors: Rousseau Daniel
Published: October 2015

Le nombre mensuel de décès en France de 1975 à 2006 présente une variation saisonnière avec un maximum marqué durant l’hiver. Ce nombre de décès est comparé à un indicateur des conditions moyennes de température. Une surmortalité exceptionnelle se manifeste pour quelques étés particulièrement chauds. En hiver, la surmortalité est systématique : elle est au moins huit fois plus importante que la mortalité estivale exceptionnelle et modulée en partie par les conditions thermiques.
Spatialisation de la température minimale de l’air à l’échelle quotidienne sur 4 départements alpins français
Authors: Lhotellier Rémi
Published: October 2015

Les mesures de la plupart des paramètres climatiques sont effectuées ponctuellement, dans les stations d’un réseau d’une densité souvent inégale. De nombreuses applications, dans le domaine du climat mais avec des influences économiques et sociales, nécessitent pourtant des valeurs climatiques en tout point de leur champ d’étude. Il est donc très souvent nécessaire d’interpoler ces variables. Le travail présenté ici s’intéresse particulièrement à la température de l’air, variable très fluctuante dans le temps comme dans l’espace, notamment en région de montagne. Notre terrain d’étude est constitué de quatre départements français (Isère, Savoie, Haute-Savoie et Hautes-Alpes) situés essentiellement dans les Alpes, même si l’ouest de la région (Avant-Pays Savoyard et Bas Dauphiné) n’est plus à proprement parler dans le domaine alpin. Cet article présente, après les données utilisées, la méthode retenue pour la spatialisation de la température de l’air, fondée sur une régression multiple permettant l’estimation de la température à partir de variables explicatives décrivant le relief et complétée par le krigeage des résidus de cette régression. L’influence de l’échelle temporelle est majeure sur l’intérêt d’inclure certains des paramètres dans le modèle. Par exemple, s’il est évident que sur une moyenne annuelle, l’altitude est souvent la seule variable expliquant les variations de température, il n’en est rien à l’échelle quotidienne, où une combinaison de facteurs est fréquemment nécessaire pour une bonne estimation. La modélisation du comportement quotidien des températures permet également de développer des applications pour étudier, par exemple, la répartition du nombre de jours de gel dans certaines vallées. La période étudiée est le mois de décembre 1995.
Caractérisation de l’aléa pluviométrique en milieu urbain à partir d’interpolations spatiales : le cas du Grand Lyon
Authors: Renard Florent , Comby Jacques
Published: October 2015

Dans le cadre du programme de recherche de l’Observatoire de Terrain en Hydrologie Urbaine sur le cycle de l’eau en milieu urbanisé, le LCRE est chargé de la caractérisation fine des aléas pluviométriques à risque sur le Grand Lyon. Les analyses sont fondées sur un couplage des mesures au sol et des données radar. Les premiers résultats obtenus à partir de l’interpolation spatiale des aléas pluviométriques et de leur mise en corrélation avec les débordements observés du réseau d’assainissement ont traduit une faible influence des facteurs locaux dans la distribution spatiale des pluies. Ils montrent encore, pour chaque épisode, un déploiement préférentiel de noyaux de forte intensité selon une orientation dans l’espace du sud-ouest vers le nord-est sur le Grand Lyon, qui n’avait jamais été souligné jusqu’à aujourd’hui. Les premiers résultats obtenus ouvrent des perspectives très encourageantes, tant sur le plan scientifique (caractérisation fine de l’aléa, origine dynamique et évolution des phénomènes), que sur le plan opérationnel (amélioration de la gestion du réseau d’assainissement, anticipation des phénomènes, procédures d’alerte).
Dynamique spatio-temporelle d’un événement météo-climatique extrême
Authors: Cantat O.
Published: October 2015

Durant l’été 2003, l’Europe occidentale a connu une période de canicule sans précédent. L’article démontre l’ampleur de cet événement météo-climatique, tant dans son intensité que dans sa durée et son extension spatiale. Les cartes d’altitude et les radiosondages verticaux permettent ensuite d’appréhender la genèse et la dynamique spatio-temporelle tridimensionnelle du phénomène. Dans le cadre d’une approche systémique, la prise en compte simultanée des événements se déroulant en altitude et dans les basses couches de l’atmosphère démontre la complexité de processus en constante interaction. L’analyse prouve que la canicule de 2003 trouve son origine en altitude mais que son caractère exceptionnel est imputable à des phénomènes d’interface air-sol. Des éléments sur l’amélioration attendue de la prévision des phénomènes météorologiques extrêmes concluent cet article.
EARLINET instrument intercomparison campaigns: overview on strategy and results
Authors: Wandinger U. , Freudenthaler V. , Baars H. , Amodeo A. , Engelmann R. , Mattis I. , Groß S. , Pappalardo G. , Giunta A. , D'Amico G. , Chaikovsky A. , Osipenko F. , Slesar A. , Nicolae D. , Belegante L. , Talianu C. , Serikov I. , Linné H. , Jansen F. , Apituley A. , Wilson K. M. , de Graaf M. , Trickl T. , Giehl H. , Adam M. , Comerón A. , Muñoz C. , Rocadenbosch F. , Sicard M. , Tomás S. , Lange D. , Kumar D. , Pujadas M. , Molero F. , Fernández A. J. , Alados-Arboledas L. , Bravo-Aranda J. A. , Navas-Guzmán F. , Guerrero-Rascado J. L. , Granados-Muñoz M. J. , Preißler J. , Wagner F. , Gausa M. , Grigorov I. , Stoyanov D. , Iarlori M. , Rizi V. , Spinelli N. , Boselli A. , Wang X. , Lo Feudo T. , Perrone M. R. , De Tomasi F. , Burlizzi P.
Published: October 2015

Abstract. This paper introduces the recent EARLINET quality-assurance efforts at instrument level. Within two dedicated campaigns and five single-site intercomparison activities 21 EARLINET systems from 18 EARLINET stations were intercompared between 2009 and 2013. A comprehensive strategy for campaign setup and data evaluation has been established. Eleven systems from nine EARLINET stations participated in the EARLINET Lidar Intercomparison 2009 (EARLI09). In this campaign, three reference systems were qualified which served as traveling standards thereafter. EARLINET systems from nine other stations have been compared against these reference systems since 2009. We present and discuss comparisons at signal and at product level from all campaigns for more than 100 individual measurement channels at the wavelengths of 355, 387, 532 and 607 nm. It is shown that in most cases a very good agreement of the compared systems with the respective reference is obtained. Mean signal deviations in pre-defined height ranges are typically below ±2 %. Particle backscatter and extinction coefficients agree within ±2 × 10−4 km−1 sr−1 and ± 0.01 km−1, respectively, in most cases. For systems or channels that showed larger discrepancies, an in-depth analysis of deficiences was performed and technical solutions and upgrades were proposed and realized. The intercomparisons have reinforced the confidence in the EARLINET data quality and allowed us to draw conclusions on necessary system improvements for some instruments and to identify major challenges that need to be tackled in the future.
Annual cycle of volatile organic compound exchange between a boreal pine forest and the atmosphere
Authors: Rantala P. , Aalto J. , Taipale R. , Ruuskanen T. M. , Rinne J.
Published: October 2015

Abstract. Long-term flux measurements of volatile organic compounds (VOC) over boreal forests are rare, although the forests are known to emit considerable amounts of VOCs into the atmosphere. Thus, we measured fluxes of several VOCs and oxygenated VOCs over a Scots-pine-dominated boreal forest semi-continuously between May 2010 and December 2013. The VOC profiles were obtained with a proton transfer reaction mass spectrometry, and the fluxes were calculated using vertical concentration profiles and the surface layer profile method connected to the Monin-Obukhov similarity theory. In total fluxes that differed significantly from zero on a monthly basis were observed for 13 out of 27 measured masses. Monoterpenes had the highest net emission in all seasons and statistically significant positive fluxes were detected from March until October. Other important compounds emitted were methanol, ethanol+formic acid, acetone and isoprene+methylbutenol. Oxygenated VOCs showed also deposition fluxes that were statistically different from zero. Isoprene+methylbutenol and monoterpene fluxes followed well the traditional isoprene algorithm and the hybrid algorithm, respectively. Emission potentials of monoterpenes were largest in late spring and autumn which was possibly driven by growth processes and decaying of soil litter, respectively. Conversely, largest emission potentials of isoprene+methylbutenol were found in July. Thus, we concluded that most of the emissions of m/z 69 at the site consisted of isoprene that originated from broadleaved trees. Methanol had deposition fluxes especially before sunrise. This can be connected to water films on surfaces. Based on this assumption, we were able to build an empirical algorithm for bi-directional methanol exchange that described both emission term and deposition term. Methanol emissions were highest in May and June and deposition level increased towards autumn, probably as a result of increasing relative humidity levels leading to predominance of deposition.
Reviews and syntheses: Greenhouse gas emissions in natural and agricultural lands in sub-Saharan Africa: synthesis of available data and suggestions for further studies
Authors: Kim D.-G. , Thomas A. D. , Pelster D. , Rosenstock T. S. , Sanz-Cobena A.
Published: October 2015

Abstract. This paper summarizes currently available data on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from African natural and agricultural lands, outlines the knowledge gaps and suggests future directions and strategies for GHG emission studies. GHG emission data were collected from 73 studies conducted in 22 countries in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Soil GHG emissions from African natural terrestrial systems ranged from 3.3 to 57.0 Mg carbon dioxide (CO2) ha−1 yr−1, −4.8 to 3.5 kg methane (CH4) ha−1 yr−1 and −0.1 to 13.7 kg nitrous oxide (N2O) ha−1 yr−1. Soil physical and chemical properties, rewetting, vegetation type, forest management and land-use changes were all found to be important factors affecting soil GHG emissions. Greenhouse gas emissions from African aquatic systems ranged from 5.7 to 232.0 Mg CO2 ha−1 yr−1, −26.3 to 2741.9 kg CH4 ha−1 yr−1 and 0.2 to 3.5 kg N2O ha−1 yr−1 and were strongly affected by discharge. Soil GHG emissions from African croplands ranged from 1.7 to 141.2 Mg CO2 ha−1 yr−1, −1.3 to 66.7 kg CH4 ha−1 yr−1and 0.05 to 112.0 kg N2O ha−1 yr−1 and the N2O emission factor (EF) ranged from 0.01 to 4.1 %. Incorporation of crop residues or manure with inorganic fertilizers resulted in significant changes in GHG emissions but these were different for CO2 and N2O. Soil GHG emissions in vegetable gardens ranged from 73.3 to 132.0 Mg CO2 ha−1 yr−1 and 53.4 to 177.6 kg N2O ha−1 yr−1 and N2O EFs ranged from 3 to 4 %. Soil CO2 and N2O emissions from agroforestry were 38.6 Mg CO2 ha−1 yr−1 and 0.2 to 26.7 kg N2O ha−1 yr−1, respectively. Improving fallow with nitrogen (N)-fixing trees increased CO2 and N2O emissions compared to conventional croplands and type and quality of plant residue is likely to be an important control factor affecting N2O emissions. Throughout agricultural lands, N2O emissions slowly increased with N inputs below 150 kg N ha−1 yr−1 and increased exponentially with N application rates up to 300 kg N ha−1 yr−1. The lowest yield-scaled N2O emissions were reported with N application rates ranging between 100 and 150 kg N ha−1. Overall, total CO2 equivalent (eq) emissions from African natural and agricultural lands were 56.9 ± 12.7 Pg CO2 eq yr−1 and natural and agricultural lands contributed 76.3 and 23.7 %, respectively. Additional GHG emission measurements throughout Africa agricultural and natural lands are urgently required to reduce uncertainty on annual GHG emissions from the different land uses and identify major control factors and mitigation options on emissions. There is also a need to develop a common strategy for addressing this data gap that may involve identifying priorities for data acquisition, utilizing appropriate technologies, and establishing networks and collaboration.
Comparing peasants' perceptions of precipitation change with precipitation records in the tropical Callejón de Huaylas, Peru
Authors: Gurgiser W. , Juen I. , Singer K. , Neuburger M. , Schauwecker S. , Hofer M. , Kaser G.
Published: October 2015

Abstract. Pronounced hygric seasonality determines the regional climate and, thus, the characteristics of rain-fed agriculture in the Peruvian Callejón de Huaylas (Cordillera Blanca). Peasants in the Cuenca Auqui on the eastern slopes above the city of Huaraz attribute recently experienced challenges in agricultural production mainly to perceived changes in precipitation patterns. Statistical analyses of daily precipitation records at nearby Recuay (1964 to 2013) and Huaraz (1996 to 2013) stations do not corroborate the perceived changes. Either insufficient temporal resolution of available precipitation records or other environmental and sociopolitical factors impacting traditional farming methods may be the reason for the lack of concordance between the two information sources investigated in this study.
An open and extensible framework for spatially explicit land use change modelling: the lulcc R package
Authors: Moulds S. , Buytaert W. , Mijic A.
Published: October 2015

Abstract. We present the lulcc software package, an object-oriented framework for land use change modelling written in the R programming language. The contribution of the work is to resolve the following limitations associated with the current land use change modelling paradigm: (1) the source code for model implementations is frequently unavailable, severely compromising the reproducibility of scientific results and making it impossible for members of the community to improve or adapt models for their own purposes; (2) ensemble experiments to capture model structural uncertainty are difficult because of fundamental differences between implementations of alternative models; and (3) additional software is required because existing applications frequently perform only the spatial allocation of change. The package includes a stochastic ordered allocation procedure as well as an implementation of the CLUE-S algorithm. We demonstrate its functionality by simulating land use change at the Plum Island Ecosystems site, using a data set included with the package. It is envisaged that lulcc will enable future model development and comparison within an open environment.
Rainfall erosivity estimation based on rainfall data collected over a range of temporal resolutions
Authors: Yin S. , Xie Y. , Liu B. , Nearing M. A.
Published: October 2015

Abstract. Rainfall erosivity is the power of rainfall to cause soil erosion by water. The rainfall erosivity index for a rainfall event (energy-intensity values – EI30) is calculated from the total kinetic energy and maximum 30 min intensity of individual events. However, these data are often unavailable in many areas of the world. The purpose of this study was to develop models based on commonly available rainfall data resolutions, such as daily or monthly totals, to calculate rainfall erosivity. Eleven stations with 1 min temporal resolution rainfall data collected from 1961 through 2000 in the eastern half of China were used to develop and calibrate 21 models. Seven independent stations, also with 1 min data, were utilized to validate those models, together with 20 previously published equations. The models in this study performed better or similar to models from previous research to estimate rainfall erosivity for these data. Using symmetric mean absolute percentage errors and Nash–Sutcliffe model efficiency coefficients, we can recommend 17 of the new models that had model efficiencies ≥ 0.59. The best prediction capabilities resulted from using the finest resolution rainfall data as inputs at a given erosivity timescale and by summing results from equations for finer erosivity timescales where possible. Results from this study provide a number of options for developing erosivity maps using coarse resolution rainfall data.
Quantifying the nutrient flux within a lowland karstic catchment
Authors: McCormack T. , Naughton O. , Johnston P. M. , Gill L. W.
Published: October 2015

Abstract. Nutrient contamination of surface and groundwaters is an issue of growing importance as the risks associated with agricultural runoff escalate due to increasing demands on global food production. In this study, the nutrient flux occurring within the surface and groundwaters of a lowland karst catchment in western Ireland was investigated with the aid of alkalinity sampling and a hydrological model. Water samples were tested from a variety of rivers, lakes (or turloughs), boreholes and springs at monthly intervals over three years. Alkalinity sampling was used to elucidate the contrasting hydrological functioning between different turloughs. Such disparate hydrological functioning was further investigated with the aid of a hydrological model which allowed for an estimate of allogenic and autogenic derived nutrient loading into the karst system. The model also allowed for an investigation of mixing within the turloughs, comparing observed behaviours with the hypothetical conservative behaviour allowed for by the model. Within the turloughs, nutrient concentrations were found to reduce over the flooded period, even though the turloughs hydrological functioning (and the hydrological model) suggested this should not occur. As such, it was determined that nutrient loss processes were occurring within the system. Denitrification during stable flooded periods (typically 3–4 months per year) was deemed to be the main process reducing nitrogen concentrations within the turloughs whereas phosphorus loss is thought to occur mostly via sedimentation and subsequent soil deposition. The results from this study suggest that, in stable conditions, ephemeral lakes can impart considerable nutrient losses on a karst groundwater system.
Evaluation of five hydrological models across Europe and their suitability for making projections under climate change
Authors: Greuell W. , Andersson J. C. M. , Donnelly C. , Feyen L. , Gerten D. , Ludwig F. , Pisacane G. , Roudier P. , Schaphoff S.
Published: October 2015

Abstract. The main aims of this paper are the evaluation of five large-scale hydrological models across Europe and the assessment of the suitability of the models for making projections under climate change. For the evaluation, 22 years of discharge measurements from 46 large catchments were exploited. In the reference simulations forcing was taken from the E-OBS dataset for precipitation and temperature, and from the WFDEI dataset for other variables. On average across all catchments, biases were small for four of the models, ranging between −29 and +23 mm yr−1 (−9 and +8 %), while one model produced a large negative bias (−117 mm yr−1; −38 %). Despite large differences in e.g. the evapotranspiration schemes, the skill to simulate interannual variability did not differ much between the models, which can be ascribed to the dominant effect of interannual variation in precipitation on interannual variation in discharge. Assuming that the skill of a model to simulate interannual variability provides a measure for the model's ability to make projections under climate change, the skill of future discharge projections will not differ much between models. The quality of the simulation of the mean annual cycles, and low and high discharge was found to be related to the degree of calibration of the models, with the more calibrated models outperforming the crudely and non-calibrated models. The sensitivity to forcing was investigated by carrying out alternative simulations with all forcing variables from WFDEI, which increased biases by between +66 and +85 mm yr−1 (21–28 %), significantly changed the inter-model ranking of the skill to simulate the mean and increased the magnitude of interannual variability by 28 %, on average.
A dynamic landslide hazard assessment system for Central America and Hispaniola
Authors: Kirschbaum D. B. , Stanley T. , Simmons J.
Published: October 2015

Abstract. Landslides pose a serious threat to life and property in Central America and the Caribbean Islands. In order to allow regionally coordinated situational awareness and disaster response, an online decision support system was created. At its core is a new flexible framework for evaluating potential landslide activity in near real time: Landslide Hazard Assessment for Situational Awareness. This framework was implemented in Central America and the Caribbean by integrating a regional susceptibility map and satellite-based rainfall estimates into a binary decision tree, considering both daily and antecedent rainfall. Using a regionally distributed, percentile-based threshold approach, the model outputs a pixel-by-pixel nowcast in near real time at a resolution of 30 arcsec to identify areas of moderate and high landslide hazard. The daily and antecedent rainfall thresholds in the model are calibrated using a subset of the Global Landslide Catalog in Central America available for 2007–2013. The model was then evaluated with data for 2014. Results suggest reasonable model skill over Central America and poorer performance over Hispaniola due primarily to the limited availability of calibration and validation data. The landslide model framework presented here demonstrates the capability to utilize globally available satellite products for regional landslide hazard assessment. It also provides a flexible framework to interchange the individual model components and adjust or calibrate thresholds based on access to new data and calibration sources. The availability of free satellite-based near real-time rainfall data allows the creation of similar models for any study area with a spatiotemporal record of landslide events. This method may also incorporate other hydrological or atmospheric variables such as numerical weather forecasts or satellite-based soil moisture estimates within this decision tree approach for improved hazard analysis.
The asymmetric impact of natural disasters on China's bilateral trade
Authors: Meng Y. , Yang S. , Shi P. , Jeager C. C.
Published: October 2015

Abstract. Globalization and technological revolutions are making the world more interconnected. International trade is an important approach linking the world. Since the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami in Japan shocked the global supply chain, more attention has been paid to the global impact of large-scale disasters. China is the second largest trader in the world and faces frequent natural disasters. Therefore, this study proposes a gravity model for China's bilateral trade tailored to national circumstances and estimates the impact of natural disasters in China and trading partner countries on Chinese imports and exports. We analyzed Chinese and trading partner statistical data from 1980 to 2012. Study results show the following: (1) China's natural disasters have a positive impact on exports but have no significant impact on imports; (2) trading partner countries' natural disasters reduce Chinese imports and exports; (3) both development level and land area of the partners are important in determining the intensity of natural disaster impacts on China's bilateral trade. The above findings suggest that the impact of natural disasters on trade is asymmetric and significantly affected by other factors, which demand further study.
A framework for variational data assimilation with superparameterization
Authors: Grooms I. , Lee Y.
Published: October 2015

Abstract. Superparameterization (SP) is a multiscale computational approach wherein a large scale atmosphere or ocean model is coupled to an array of simulations of small scale dynamics on periodic domains embedded into the computational grid of the large scale model. SP has been successfully developed in global atmosphere and climate models, and is a promising approach for new applications, but there is currently no practical data assimilation framework that can be used with these models. The authors develop a 3D-Var variational data assimilation framework for use with SP; the relatively low cost and simplicity of 3D-Var in comparison with ensemble approaches makes it a natural fit for relatively expensive multiscale SP models. To demonstrate the assimilation framework in a simple model, the authors develop a new system of ordinary differential equations similar to the two-scale Lorenz-'96 model. The system has one set of variables denoted {Yi}, with large and small scale parts, and the SP approximation to the system is straightforward. With the new assimilation framework the SP model approximates the large scale dynamics of the true system accurately.
Distribution of intermediate water masses in the subtropical northeast Atlantic
Authors: Bashmachnikov I. , Nascimento Â. , Neves F. , Menezes T. , Koldunov N. V.
Published: October 2015

Abstract. This work presents the quantitative study of climatological distributions of mid-depth source water types in the northeast (NE) Atlantic using the optimum multiparameter analysis (OMP). It generalises a number of regional results from particular synoptic sections. The cores of the Mediterranean Water (MW), the modified Antarctic Intermediate Water (mAAIW) and the Subarctic Intermediate Water (SAIW) are detected and spatial variations of their depth/density are obtained: as expected, spreading of the water types is predominantly isopycnic and follows the major mid-depth circulation patterns. In some areas the turbulent transport also makes a considerable contribution. MW in the Atlantic spreads in three cores of different density: the upper MW core (northwest of the line 28° W, 35° N–14° W, 44° N) is found in the neutral density range of 27.65–27.70 kg m−3 at depths of 900–1000 m; the main MW core (between the line above and the line 35° W, 28° N–10° W, 37° N) has neutral density of around 27.75 kg m−3 and is found at 1000–1100 m; the lower MW core (southeast of the line 35° W, 28° N–10° W, 37° N) has neutral density of around 27.80 kg m−3 and is found at 1250–1350 m. The upper MW core has a comparatively low MW content (below 30 %) and is speculated to be transported by the mean flow from the northern Iberian Peninsula and the Bay of Biscay to the northern Azores. The main MW core contains the majority of the outflowing MW. It primarily originates from the Mediterranean undercurrent around Estremadura Promontory, where the Joint Effect of Baroclinicity and Bottom Relief (JEBAR) overrides the topographic β effect. It is transported west to the Azores Islands mostly along 39° N. The lower MW core originates in the Gulf of Cádiz, from where it is transported by the dominating flows southwestwards. The SAIW core is detected between 27.70 and 27.75 kg m−3. It is found to spread south along both slopes of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge (MAR). SAIW east of the MAR mixes with the upper and the main MW cores and re-circulates in a cyclonic gyre at 15–25° W and 34–39° N, penetrating as far south as the Azores Current. The mAAIW core is detected between 27.60 and 27.65 kg m−3. Its northernmost spreading limit is between 25 and 29° N, but its influence can be observed along the African coast and immediately west of the Canary Islands up to 32° N. The maximum concentration of the mAAIW core is found south of the Canary Islands, from where mAAIW is advected westwards, along with the westward spreading of the deep fraction of MW.
Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery: Soft Lens Assisted Interface (SoftFit) versus Direct Contact Interface
Authors: Asena Bilgehan Sezgin , Kaskaloglu Mahmut
Published: October 2015

Purpose

To determine the safety of the Laser SoftFit™ patient interface by comparing intraoperative results with the contact interface of the LenSx® femtosecond laser platform (FSL).

Methods

In this nonrandomized, consecutive case series, 50 eyes underwent femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) using the LenSx® laser platform (group 1); FLACS was performed in another 50 eyes, using the Laser SoftFit™ patient interface (group 2). Intraoperative complications (corneal folds) and surgical results (incomplete and free capsulotomies, incomplete phacofragmentation, and unopened incisions) were compared.

Results

Corneal folds and incomplete capsulotomies were less common (p = 0.0001 for both) and free-floating capsulotomies were more frequent (p = 0.0001) with the Laser SoftFit™ patient interface. Incomplete phacofragmentation and unopened incision exhibited similar rates in both groups (p = 0.436 and 0.204, respectively).

Conclusions

Using the Laser SoftFit™ patient interface decreased the incidence of corneal folds, resulting in better capsulotomy outcomes during FLACS.
Tendon Elongation with Bovine Pericardium (Tutopatch®) When Conventional Strabismus Surgery is Not Possible
Authors: van Rijn Laurentius J. , van De Ven Stephanie J.N. , Krijnen Jacqueline S.M. , Jansen Suzanne M. , Bakels Amber J. , Langenhorst Anne-Marie E.L.
Published: October 2015

Purpose

Sometimes, a conventional recess-resect surgery may not be sufficient to obtain satisfactory ocular alignment. Patients who have previously undergone surgery and/or have a large difference in visual acuity between both eyes and do not wish to undergo surgery on the sound eye provide a surgical challenge. In these cases, tendon elongation with bovine pericardium may be an option.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the charts of 38 patients who underwent strabismus surgery with tendon elongation. Before surgery, 31 had exotropia (angle −21.8 ± 5.7 degrees) and 7 esotropia (angle +19.1 ± 5.4 degrees). Reasons for tendon elongation included the following: 15 patients refused surgery on their sound eye; in 15 patients, conventional recess-resect was not possible; and in 7 patients, the elongation best fitted the motility pattern. In one patient, tendon elongation was preferred over conventional recession because of a thin sclera. Follow-up was 0.5 to 4 years.

Results

At last follow-up visit, in patients with previous exotropia, the angle was −3.3 ± 5.9 degrees; in patients with previous esotropia, +0.2 ± 0.5 degrees. Most had some duction limitation in the direction of the elongated muscle. All patients but one were satisfied with the result. In the patients with previous exotropia, there was a small but nonsignificant regression to recurrence of the exodeviation (on average 0.5 degree per year).

Conclusions

Tendon elongation is a valuable addition to our strabismus surgery repertoire. However, because of duction limitations after surgery, it should be reserved for those cases in which conventional surgery is not an option.
Arthroscopic Labral Repair versus Labral Debridement in Patients with Femoroacetabular Impingement: A Minimum 2.5 Year Follow-up Study
Authors: Cetinkaya Sarper , Toker Berkin , Ozden Vahit E. , Dikmen Goksel , Taser Omer
Published: October 2015

Purpose

To compare the clinical results of labral repair with labral debridement in patients undergoing arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement.

Methods

Between July 2008 and December 2011, 67 patients (73 hips) underwent arthroscopic treatment for femoroacetabular impingement. The repair group consisted of 33 patients; 18 hips with pincer only, 1 with CAM only and 15 with combined impingement. The debridement group contained 34 patients; 6 with pincer only, 5 with CAM only and 28 with combined type. The mean age in the repair group was 33.5 years (range, 30-61) and in the debridement group was 39.5 years (range, 18-59 y). At the time of last follow-up, patient's hip function was evaluated with ROM of the hip; daily Hip Outcome scores (dHOS) and Visual Analogue Score (VAS).

Results

The mean follow-up was 45.2 month in the repair group and 47.2 month in debridement group. Daily hip outcome scores were significantly improved from preoperatively to last follow-up in both groups (p<0.05). However, there were no statistical significant difference in dHOS between repair and debridement groups (p>0.05) at last follow-up. 2 patients in the repair group and 1 patient in the debridement group had undergone total hip replacement at an average of 16 months (range, 4-32 m) after arthroscopic treatment. Hip joint instability occurred in 1 patient in the repair group due to aggressive capsular resection. This was treated by a periacetabular osteotomy.

Conclusions

No difference in hip functional outcomes was observed between labral debridement and labral repair in arthroscopic treatment of femoroacetabular impingement.
Bioavailability of Gentamicin and Vancomycin Released from an Antibiotic Containing Bone Cement in Patients Undergoing a Septic One-Stage Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA) Revision: A Monocentric Open Clinical Trial
Authors: Kendoff Daniel O. , Gehrke Thorsten , Stangenberg Peter , Frommelt Lars , Bösebeck Hans
Published: October 2015

Background

The purpose of this clinical investigation was to evaluate the systemic bioavailability of antibiotics from bone cement after implantation. This was done by determining the concentrations of gentamicin and vancomycin in plasma and urine of patients receiving a novel bone cement during one-stage revision in periprosthetic hip infections. The local concentrations of both antibiotic agents in wound exudate as well as the efficacy and tolerability were assessed as a secondary objective.

Methods

In a prospective open clinical trial, 20 patients (mean age 62.5 years) with an implanted hip prosthesis requiring revision due to periprosthetic infection were treated with this antibiotic loaded bone cement (ALBC) between 2009 and 2011. The concentrations of gentamicin and vancomycin in plasma, urine and wound exudate were determined with quantitative liquid chromatography analysis (LC-MS-MS).

Results

The mean postoperative maximum gentamicin plasma concentration at 5.85 hours was 209.65 ng/mL. For vancomycin, a mean postoperative maximum plasma concentration of 134.64 ng/mL was determined at 20.03 hours. Small amounts of both antibiotics were excreted via the urine within the first 10 days after surgery. No reinfection was observed at the end of the hospital stay or during the follow-up period up to 7 months post surgery.

Conclusions

Slow absorption of both antibiotics after release from the cement resulted in plasma concentrations well below toxic levels and did not result in a critical systemic concentration potientially inducing bacterial resistance. The treatment with this novel bone cement was assessed as efficacious and was very well tolerated by all patients.
Oxygen Measurement in Interstitially Perfused Cellularized Constructs Cultured in a Miniaturized Bioreactor
Authors: Raimondi Manuela T. , Giordano Carmen , Pietrabissa Riccardo
Published: October 2015

Aims

The possibility of developing engineered tissue in vitro and maintaining the cell viability and functionality is primarily related to the possibility of controlling key culture parameters such as oxygen concentration and cell-specific oxygen consumption. We measured these parameters in a three-dimensional (3D) cellularized construct maintained under interstitially perfused culture in a miniaturized bioreactor.

Methods

MG63 osteosarcoma cells were seeded at high density on a 3D polystyrene scaffold. The 3D scaffolds were sensorized with sensor foils made of a polymer, which fluoresce with intensity proportional to the local oxygen tension. Images of the sensor foil in contact with the cellularized construct were acquired with a video camera every four hours for six culture days and were elaborated with analytical imaging software to obtain oxygen concentration maps.

Results

The data collected indicate a globally decreasing oxygen concentration profile, with a total drop of 28% after six days of culture and an average drop of 10.5% between the inlet and outlet of the perfused construct. Moreover, by importing the measured oxygen concentration data and the cell counts in a model of mass transport, we calculated the cell-specific oxygen consumption over the whole culture period. The consumption increased with oxygen availability and ranged from 0.1 to 0.7 µmol/h/106 cells.

Conclusions

The sensors used here allowed a non-invasive, contamination-free and non-destructive oxygen measurement over the whole culture period. This study is the basis for optimization of the culture parameters involved in oxygen supply, in order to guarantee maintenance of cell viability in our system.
Anti-Biofilm Effect of Nanometer Scale Silver (NmSAg) Coatings on Glass and Polystyrene Surfaces against P. Mirabilis, C. Glabrata and C. Tropicalis Strains
Authors: Sahal Gulcan , Nasseri Behzad , Bilkay Isil Seyis , Piskin Erhan
Published: October 2015

Purpose

Nowadays, in order to terminate biofilm associated infections, coating of particular biomaterial surfaces with particular substances, via some nanotechnological tools, is being applied. Therefore, in the present study, investigation of anti-biofilm effects of nanometer scale silver (NmSAg) coatings on glass and polystyrene surfaces against clinical strains of Proteus mirabilis, Candida glabrata and Candida tropicalis was aimed.

Methods

In this study, glass and polystyrene slabs with 1.5 cm × 1.5 cm × 0.3 mm dimensions were cleaned by using surface plasma technology, covered with NmSAg by using a physical vapor deposition machine, and biofilm inhibition was determined by crystal violet binding assay.

Results

According to our results, 32 nm of silver layer on a glass slab decreased biofilm formation of P. mirabilis strain to a maximum amount of 88.1% and caused 20.9% inhibition in biofilm formation of C. glabrata strain. On the other hand, NmS coating of Ag on a polystyrene slab caused 34.4% and 20% inhibitions, respectively, in biofilm formations of C. glabrata and C. tropicalis strains. Although biofilm inhibition of NmSAg layer on polystyrene slab was more (34.4%) than biofilm inhibition caused by NmSAg layer on glass slab (20.9%), C. glabrata strain's biofilm formation on uncoated glass slab was lower than both uncoated and NmSAg-coated polystyrene slabs.

Conclusions

Our results show that glass surfaces with NmSAg coatings can be used as a new surface material of various indwelling devices on which P. mirabilis colonizations frequently occur and in order to avoid C. glabrata-associated biofilm infections, it is more useful to choose a surface material of glass rather than choosing a surface material of polystyrene.
Transcatheter Anastomosis Connector System for Vascular access Graft Placement: Results from a First-in-human Pilot Study
Authors: Ebner Adrian , Ross John R. , Setum Cindy M. , Kallok Michael J. , Yevzlin Alexander S.
Published: October 2015

Purpose

A lengthy healing and maturation period follows standard surgical preparation of a permanent arteriovenous access, often requiring or extending use of a venous catheter (VC) for hemodialysis. The InterGraft™ Anastomotic Connector System was developed for minimally invasive anastomosis of an arteriovenous graft (AVG). The venous and arterial InterGraft™ connectors are designed to provide optimized flow dynamics and may result in reduction of AVG stenosis. This pilot study evaluated placement procedure success, patency and safety of the InterGraft™ connectors.

Methods

Nine AVGs were implanted in nine patients currently receiving dialysis with a VC. The study allowed use of both connectors (n = 5) or use of the venous connector with a sutured arterial anastomosis (n = 4). Monthly ultrasound examinations were performed throughout the six-month follow-up. AVG angiography was performed at five months. Endpoints included procedure success (acceptable graft flow at end of procedure, without significant bleeding or need for emergent surgery), patency, and device-related major adverse events.

Results

Procedure success was attained in all patients. AVGs were used for dialysis within 17 days, on average, and VCs were removed. Three patients exited the study early for reasons unrelated to the InterGraft™ connectors. The remaining six patients had patent grafts: two with assisted and four with unassisted patency. AVG flow rates were greater than 1 L/minute. No dilatations or aneurysms were observed by angiography. There were no device-related major adverse events.

Conclusions

The InterGraft™ connectors can be safely and successfully used for AVG anastomoses, with acceptable near-term patency. Further clinical evaluation is warranted.
Orbital Exenteration: Our Experience
Authors: Maria di Alessandra , Balia Laura , Mario Poletti Arturo , Colombo Giovanni , Romano Mary
Published: October 2015

Introduction

We reviewed our experience of the multidisciplinary collaboration between ophthalmologists, head and neck surgeons, neurosurgeons, radiologists and oncologists in the management of extensive tumors treated by orbital exenteration at the Humanitas Research Institute, Milan, Italy, over the past 10 years.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study of all patients who underwent orbital exenteration between March 2005 and August 2014 at the Humanitas Research Institute. The 10-year cohort of exenterated patients was identified through operating room notes using the clinical code set of the International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision (ICD-10).

Results

A total of 26 patients were identified, including 19 (73.1%) males. The median age was 65.5 years (range 37-87). Eighteen (69.2%) patients had major skin cancers extending to the orbit. Patients were divided into 2 cohorts: cohort 1 comprising patients with sinus or craniofacial cancers requiring orbital exenteration, and cohort 2 comprising patients with advanced periorbital skin cancers. The two cohorts were well matched for sex, age at surgery, degree of invasion, extension of surgical removal, necessity of adjuvant radiotherapy, reconstruction processes, and rehabilitation.

Conclusions

In our experience patients never died of the primary lesion but because of the occurrence of other problems. So we encourage local surgical radicality.