bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pectosomes and Chitosomes as Delivery Systems for Metronidazole: The One-Pot Preparation Method
Authors: Andersen Toril , Vanić Željka , Flaten Gøril , Mattsson Sofia , Tho Ingunn , Škalko-Basnet Nataša
Published: September 2013

Mucoadhesive liposomes offer a potential for improved residence time of liposomal systems targeting contact with mucosal tissues, such as in buccal, oral, colon, and vaginal drug delivery. Most of the currently available methods rely on the coating of preformed liposomes by various mucoadhesive polymers. The aim of this study was to develop novel mucoadhesive system by the one-pot preparation method. The pectin- and chitosan-containing liposomes, namely pectosomes and chitosomes, were prepared by the modified solvent injection method. In order to optimize this novel delivery system, we used pectins and chitosans of both high and low degree of esterification/deacetylation (DE/DD), respectively. Sonication was applied to reduce the original vesicle size. All vesicles were characterized for their size, zeta potential, metronidazole entrapment, and stability. Both pectosomes and chitosomes were found to entrap more metronidazole than conventional plain liposomes. Preliminary data indicate that the polymer is present on the liposomal surface, embedded within inner liposomal bilayers, and entrapped inside the aqueous compartment. The next step in the evaluation of this system is the testing of its mucoadhesiveness.
Generating Reference Models for Structurally Complex Data
Authors: Lara J. A. , Martinez L. , Pérez A. , Valente J. P. , Alonso F.
Published: September 2013

Objectives: We present a framework specially designed to deal with structurally complex data, where all individuals have the same structure, as is the case in many medical domains. A structurally complex individual may be composed of any type of single-valued or multivalued attributes, including time series, for example. These attributes are structured according to domain-dependent hierarchies. Our aim is to generate reference models of population groups. These models represent the population archetype and are very useful for supporting such important tasks as diagnosis, detecting fraud, analyzing patient evolution, identifying control groups, etc.

Methods: We have developed a conceptual model to represent structurally complex data hierarchically. Additionally, we have devised a method that uses the similarity tree concept to measure how similar two structurally complex individuals are, plus an outlier detection and filtering method. These methods provide the groundwork for the method that we have designed for generating reference models of a set of structurally complex individuals. A key idea of this method is to use event-based analysis for modeling time series.

Results: The proposed framework has been applied to the medical field of stabilometry. To validate the outlier detection method we used 142 individuals, and there was a match between the outlier ratings by the experts and by the system for 139 individuals (97.8%). To validate the reference model generation method, we applied k-fold cross validation (k = 5) with 60 athletes (basket-ball players and ice-skaters), and the system correctly classified 55 (91.7%). We then added 30 non-athletes as a control group, and the method output the correct result in a very high percentage of cases (96.6%).

Conclusions: We have achieved very satisfactory results for the tests on data from such a complex domain as stabilometry and for the comparison of the reference model generation method with other methods. This supports the validity of this framework.
Alfonso el Regenerador. Monarquía escénica e imaginario nacionalista español, en perspectiva comparada (1902-1913)
Authors: Moreno Luzón Javier
Published: September 2013

Este artículo analiza las relaciones entre monarquía y nacionalismo español en la primera década del reinado efectivo de Alfonso XIII. Y lo hace desde una perspectiva comparada, en el marco de las monarquías escénicas que se desplegaron en Europa entre 1870 y 1914. Para ello se centra en tres ámbitos: las grandes ceremonias monárquicas, en especial la jura de la Constitución; los viajes regios, que alcanzaron un desarrollo extraordinario; y los actos militares, entre los que destacaba la jura anual de banderas. A través de ellos, la corona se integró en un imaginario marcado por discursos y prácticas regeneracionistas, que consideraban al rey un motor imprescindible para la reconstitución de España tras el desastre colonial de 1898. Con menor pompa que otras coronas coetáneas, Alfonso XIII, calificado como el Regenerador, se convirtió en un símbolo nacional en el que diversos grupos sociales proyectaban sus expectativas. Sobre todo las élites locales, diversas asociaciones y un público heterogéneo que asistía a espectáculos de masas recogidos por los medios de comunicación. Estas representaciones contribuyeron a reforzar el papel político del rey, que, como la mayoría de los monarcas de su tiempo, disfrutaba de poderes constitucionales tan efectivos como polémicos.
América como vector de regeneración y cohesión para una España plural: «La Raza» y el 12 de octubre, cimientos de una identidad compuesta
Authors: Marcilhacy David
Published: September 2013

Este artículo analiza de qué manera el mito americano contribuyó a construir el imaginario nacional español durante la Restauración borbónica. Mientras España perdía su estatus de metrópoli colonial y atravesaba una crisis identitaria que sacudiría los cimientos del pacto restauracionista, el naciente movimiento hispanoamericanista finisecular recurrió al mito de la “Raza hispana” como sustrato de una comunidad nacional imaginada y presuntamente cohesiva. Fomentada por el auge del asociacionismo americanista en la periferia peninsular, la reactivación del sueño imperial se concretó en toda una serie de iniciativas, en particular en las políticas de memoria que entonces fueron llevadas a cabo. Celebrado por primera vez en 1892, el aniversario del Descubrimiento de América se convirtió, durante los años 1910, en “Día de la Raza” y símbolo nacional. Como otras conmemoraciones americanistas que surgieron en aquellos años, las celebraciones del 12 de octubre sirvieron de estímulo para una nación obsesionada por el temor a la fragmentación. Asimismo, contribuyeron a redefinir los contornos de la identidad colectiva. De este modo, América se convirtió en un vector de regeneración y de cohesión nacional para España. El arraigo progresivo del “Día de la Raza”, posibilitado por el papel pionero de determinados colectivos de Cataluña, Andalucía e Hispanomérica, revela que sus promotores tuvieron como ambición ofrecer a la España plural un relato común y positivo de su historia. Tanto el mito que se le asoció como los actos organizados en esa ocasión por toda España pretendieron así reunir en un mismo haz las referencias múltiples —local, regional, nacional e incluso panhispánica— que han ido forjando el imaginario español.
Improvement of Clinical Laboratory Services through Quality
Authors: Mourtzikou Antonia , Stamouli Marilena , Athanasiadi Elena
Published: September 2013

Health care providers need test results that are relevant, accurate, and reliable for patient care. The term “quality control” is used to describe the set of procedures used to check that the results of laboratory tests are reliable for the intended clinical use. A laboratory might produce results that are considered unsatisfactory. While the cause for this might be immediately apparent, the identification of the underlying problem is neither always straightforward, nor easy because many factors can affect result quality. Internal quality control (IQC) and external quality assessment (EQA) are two distinct but complementary components of a laboratory quality improvement program. IQC ensures day-to-day laboratory consistency. EQA permits the identification of poor individual laboratory performance, as well as the detection of reagents, instruments and methods that produce unreliable or misleading results, by means of a retrospective analysis of data obtained by participating laboratories. Continuous participation in EQA schemes has been linked to improved laboratory performance.
Effects of Physician-Patient Electronic Communications on the Quality of Care
Authors: Tabatabai Shima
Published: September 2013

The article summarizes evidence about the effectiveness of patient–physician electronic communication. The emphasis was on the importance of understanding the potential impact of e-communication on patient satisfaction, and on the quality of health care. A review of literature was performed in the area of patient–physician electronic communication, and references were appraised, and synthesized for an overview of benefits and challenges of this model of communication. Electronic communication is becoming popular, has the potential to transform the health care system, and support the patient–physician interaction. Patients are enthusiastic about this convenience model of communication, and feel strongly embraced in communicating via email & web messaging. Although, there is evidence that electronic communication could increase quality of care due to increased interaction and would extend health care efficiency, a variety of potential benefits and challenges is reported. Overall, electronic communication introduces a new model of patient-physician interaction that could supplement and reasonably replace a portion of traditional face-to-face encounters. However, further investigation is required to assess its impact on healthcare process efficiency.
Automated Insertion of Exception Handling for Key and Referential Constraints
Authors: Liu Kaiping , Tan Hee Beng Kuan , Chen Xu
Published: September 2013

Key and referential constraints are two main integrity constraints in database applications. These constraints can be automatically enforced by the Database Management System with their exception—violation from these constraints—handled by programmers. This paper proposes an approach to relieve the burden of programmers from mechanical coding for handling exceptions of these constraints violation by using program transformation. We first propose an extended abstract syntax tree to include SQL query semantics. Based on it, each code pattern that requires exception handling together with the exception handling code to be inserted is represented as a transformation rule. We provide two alternatives to handle the exceptions: one is to handle the exceptions in conjunction with the built-in enforcement feature in Database Management System; the other is handling them without using the feature provided in Database Management System. Hence, two types of transformation rules are provided accordingly. A tool GEHPHP (Generation of Exception Handling for PHP Systems) has been developed to implement the proposed approach. Experiments have also been conducted to evaluate the applicable of the approach.
Understanding the Situation and Factors of ICT Adoption in Agricultural Cooperatives
Authors: Montegut-Salla Yolanda , Cristóbal-Fransi Eduard , Gómez-Adillón Maria Jesús
Published: September 2013

The phenomenon of the information and communication technologies (ICT) in general and Internet in particular has forced businesses and organizations to examine their existing business practices and adopt new methods of working, both for existing and potential customers. This paper presents an analysis of a study of 49 agri-food cooperatives in the province of Lleida, Spain, which seeks to analyse the current situation of Internet usage and electronic commerce in agrarian cooperatives and obtain the different factors of employing ICTs and the level of sophistication of use. The results are focused in the questionnaire that was completed by olive oil and sweet fruit cooperatives in 2010 that addressed the following aspects: computer equipment, Internet connection and presence, and finally, the level of electronic commerce. The discussion, based on the initial findings, examines the circumstances for ICT success and strategic effects resulting from implementation and use of such technologies. Afterwards, a logistic regression was carried out for determining the relevant factors in ICT adoption. The findings highlight that main activity and own website, including the variable training under particular circumstances are clearly significant to the extent of adoption and exploitation of ICTs by cooperatives.
JIRL
Authors: Edmundson David , Schaefer Gerald
Published: September 2013

Since there are few open image retrieval toolkits available, researchers in the field are often forced to re-implement existing algorithms in order to perform a comparative evaluation. None of the existing toolkits support retrieval of JPEG images directly in the compressed domain. The authors’ aim is therefore to facilitate the use of compressed domain image retrieval techniques as well as ease retrieval evaluation by fellow researchers. For this purpose, the authors present JIRL, an open source C++ software suite that allows content-based image retrieval in the JPEG compressed domain and provides tools for benchmarking retrieval accuracy and retrieval time. In total, twelve state-of-the-art JPEG retrieval algorithms are implemented, while for each method techniques for compressed domain feature extraction as well as feature comparison are provided in an object-oriented framework. An example image retrieval application is also provided to demonstrate how the library can be used. JIRL is made available to fellow researchers under the LGPL v.2.1 license.
Processes of Sterile Inflammation
Authors: Shen Hua , Kreisel Daniel , Goldstein Daniel Robert
Published: September 2013

Sterile inflammation occurs in acute conditions, such as ischemia reperfusion injury and crystal-induced arthritis, as well as with chronic diseases, such as particle-induced lung diseases and atherosclerosis. The triggers of sterile inflammation are still being identified, and the pathways that transduce sterile inflammatory signals are not completely clear. Most of the innate immune pathways that sense infection have been implicated in sterile inflammation, although distinct signaling pathways of sterile inflammation exist. Whether immune pathology ensues after sterile inflammation depends on the balance of induced inflammatory and resolution pathways. Further identification of the molecular mechanisms of sterile inflammation will lead to novel therapeutics to treat a range of diseases.
Relevance of reproductive correlates in response of diamondback moth (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae) to plant quality
Authors: Soufbaf M. , Fathipour Y. , Zalucki M.P. , Karimzadeh J.
Published: September 2013

To study the relationships between leaf nitrogen and the reproductive potential of diamondback moth, all reproductive parameters of this pest raised on two canola cultivars were evaluated. A standardized regression coefficient (β) was used as an index for nitrogen-reproduction relationship strength. The only difference between net fecundity rate and net fertility rate is hx’s effect, but the difference in their standardized regression coefficients was not significant [β=+0.934 (R2=0.87, F1,4=27.34, P=0.006) and β=+0.922 (R2=0.85, F1,4=22.825, P=0.009)]. Accordingly, gross fecundity rate and gross fertility rate differ only in hx’s effect, but the difference in standardized regression coefficients again was not significant [β=0.895 (R2=0.8, F1,4=16.159, P=0.016)-0.890 (R2=0.79, F1,4=15.266, P=0.017)=0.005]. As gross fecundity rate differs from net fecundity rate only in midpoint survivorship (Lx)’s effect, it is understood that survivorship could affect the plant nitrogen–fecundity relation considerably (standardized coefficients difference=0.044) and could be a critical parameter in insectplant interactions. But, the terms of reproductive parameters, i.e. Lx and hx, showed the same effect on the strength of nitrogen-fecundity regression statistically, even though Lx has been selected frequently by many researchers as an important fitness correlate. Measuring the hatch rate could be recommended in trophic interactions studies due to its being easier to apply, more robust, and quicker to accomplish than measurement of survivorship; however, it is important as an indicator in combination with brood size for determining the initial population size of an insect herbivore.
Policy implementation in wheelchair service delivery in a rural South African setting
Authors: Visagie Surona , Scheffler Elsje , Schneider Marguerite
Published: September 2013

Background: Wheelchairs allow users to realise basic human rights and improved quality of life. South African and international documents guide rehabilitation service delivery and thus the provision of wheelchairs. Evidence indicates that rehabilitation policy implementation gaps exist in rural South Africa.Objectives: The aim of this article was to explore the extent to which wheelchair service delivery in a rural, remote area of South Africa was aligned with the South African National Guidelines on Provision of Assistive Devices, The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and The World Health Organization Guidelines on Provision of Wheelchairs in Less-Resourced Settings.Method: Qualitative methods were used. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 22 participants who were identified through purposive sampling. Content analysis of data was preformed around the construct of wheelchair service delivery.Results: Study findings identified gaps between the guiding documents and wheelchair service delivery. Areas where gaps were identified included service aspects such as referral, assessment, prescription, user and provider training, follow up, maintenance and repair as well as management aspects such as staff support, budget and monitoring. Positive findings related to individual assessments, enthusiastic and caring staff and the provision of wheelchairs at no cost.Conclusion: The gaps in policy implementation can have a negative impact on users and the service provider. Inappropriate or no wheelchairs limit user function, participation and quality of life. In addition, an inappropriate wheelchair will have a shorter lifespan, requiring frequent repairs and replacements with cost implications for the service provider.
Prognostic Value of Resting pulmonary Function in Heart Failure
Authors: Olson Thomas P. , Denzer Dustin L. , Sinnett William L. , Wilson Ted , Johnson Bruce D.
Published: September 2013

Background

The heart and lungs are intimately linked anatomically and physiologically, and, as a result, heart failure (HF) patients often develop changes in pulmonary function. This study examined the prognostic value of resting pulmonary function (PF) in HF.

Methods and Results

In all, 134 HF patients (enrolled from January 1, 1999 Through December 31, 2005; ejection fraction (EF) = 29% ± 11%; mean age = 55 ± 12 years; 65% male) were followed for 67 ± 34 months with death/transplant confirmed via the Social Security Index and Mayo Clinic registry. PF included forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (DLCO), and alveolar volume (VA). Patients were divided in tertiles according to PF with survival analysis via log-rank Mantel-Cox test with chi-square analysis. Groups for FVC included (1) >96%, (2) 96% to 81%, and (3) <81% predicted (chi-square = 18.9, P< 0.001). Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons (BC) suggested differences between groups 1 and 3 (P < 0.001) and 2 and 3 ( P = 0.008). Groups for FEV1 included (1) >94%, (2) 94% to 77%, and (3) <77% predicted (chi-square = 17.3, P < 0.001). BC suggested differences between groups 1 and 3 ( P < 0.001). Groups for DLCO included (1) >90%, (2) 90% to 75%, and (3) <75% predicted (chi-square = 11.9, P = 0.003). BC suggested differences between groups 1 and 3 >( P < 0.001). Groups for VA included (1) <97%, (2) 97% to 87%, and (3) <87% predicted (Chi-square = 8.5, P = 0.01). BC suggested differences between groups 1 and 2 ( P = 0.014) and 1 and 3 >( P = 0.003).

Conclusions

In a well-defined cohort of HF patients, resting measures of PF are predictive of all-cause mortality.
Effects of nitrogen fertilizer application on seed yield, N uptake, N use efficiency, and seed quality of Brassica carinata
Authors: Johnson E. N. , Malhi S. S. , Hall L. M. , Phelps S.
Published: September 2013

Johnson, E. N., Malhi, S. S., Hall, L. M. and Phelps, S. 2013. Effects of nitrogen fertilizer application on seed yield, N uptake, N use efficiency, and seed quality of Brassica carinata . Can. J. Plant Sci. 93: 1073–1081. Ethiopian mustard (Brassica carinata A. Braun) is a relatively new crop in western Canada and research information on its response to N fertilizer is lacking. Two field experiments (exp. 1 at 3 site-years and exp. 2 at 4 site-years) were conducted from 2008 to 2010 in Saskatchewan and Alberta, Canada, to determine effect of N fertilizer application on Brassica carinata plant density, seed and straw yield, N uptake in seed and straw, N use efficiency (NUE), N fertilizer use efficiency (NFUE) and seed quality. N rates applied were 0 to 160 kg N ha−1 and 0 to 200 kg N ha−1 in exps. 1 and 2, respectively. Plant density was not affected by increasing N rate at 5 site-years but declined with high rates of N application at 2 site-years. Seed yield responded to applied N in 6 of 7 site-years, with the non-responsive site having a high total N uptake at the 0 kg N ha−1 rate (high Nt value). There were no sites where seed yields were maximized with the N rates applied. Response trends of straw yield and N uptake were similar to that of seed yield at the corresponding site-years. NUE and NFUE generally declined as N rate increased. Protein concentration in seed generally increased and oil concentration in seed decreased with increasing N rates. In conclusion, the responses of seed yield, total N uptake, NUE, and NFUE to applied N was similar to those reported in other Brassica species with the exception that a rate was not identified in which Brassica carinata yields were maximized.
Characterization of ultrafine particle number concentration and new particle formation in an urban environment of Taipei, Taiwan
Authors: Cheung H. C. , Chou C. C.-K. , Huang W.-R. , Tsai C.-Y.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. An intensive aerosol characterization experiment was performed at the Taipei Aerosol and Radiation Observatory (TARO, 25.02° N, 121.53° E) in the urban area of Taipei, Taiwan, during July 2012. Number concentration and size distribution of aerosol particles were measured continuously, which were accompanied by concurrent measurements of mass concentration of submicron particles, PM1 (d ≤ 1 μm), and photolysis rate of ozone, J(O1D). The averaged number concentrations of total (Ntotal), accumulation mode (Nacu), Aitken mode (NAitken), and nucleation mode (Nnuc) particles were 13.9 × 103 cm−3, 1.2 × 103 cm−3, 6.1 × 103 cm−3, and 6.6 × 103 cm−3, respectively. Accordingly, the ultrafine particles (UFPs, d ≤ 100 nm) accounted for 91% of the total number concentration of particles measured in this study (10 ≤ d ≤ 429 nm), indicating the importance of UFPs to the air quality and radiation budget in Taipei and its surrounding areas. An averaged Nnuc / NOx ratio of 192.4 cm−3 ppbv−1 was derived from nighttime measurements, which was suggested to be the characteristic of vehicle emissions that contributed to the "urban background" of nucleation mode particles throughout a day. On the contrary, it was found that the number concentration of nucleation mode particles was independent of NOx and could be elevated up to 10 times of the "urban background" levels during daytime, suggesting a substantial amount of nucleation mode particles produced from photochemical processes. Averages (± 1σ) of the diameter growth rate (GR) and formation rate of nucleation mode particles, J10, were 11.9 ± 10.6 nm h−1 and 6.9 ± 3.0 cm−3 s−1, respectively. Consistency in the time series of the nucleation mode particle concentration and the proxy of H2SO4 production, UVB · SO2/CS, for new particle formation (NPF) events suggested that photooxidation of SO2 was likely one of the major mechanisms for the formation of new particles in our study area. Moreover, it was revealed that the particle growth rate correlated exponentially with the photolysis of ozone, implying that the condensable vapors were produced mostly from photooxidation reactions. In addition, this study also revealed that Nnuc exhibited a quadratic relationship with J10. The quadratic relationship was inferred as a result of aerosol dynamics and featured NPF processes in urban areas.
Factors that influence surface PM2.5 values inferred from satellite observations: perspective gained for the Baltimore-Washington Area during DISCOVER-AQ
Authors: Crumeyrolle S. , Chen G. , Ziemba L. , Beyersdorf A. , Thornhill L. , Winstead E. , Moore R. , Shook M. A. , Anderson B.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. During the NASA DISCOVER-AQ campaign over the Washington D.C., - Baltimore, MD, metropolitan region in July 2011, the NASA P-3B aircraft performed extensive profiling of aerosol optical, chemical, and microphysical properties. These in-situ profiles were coincident with ground based remote sensing (AERONET) and in-situ (PM2.5) measurements. Here, we use this data set to study the correlation between the PM2.5 observations at the surface and the column integrated measurements. Aerosol optical depth (AOD) calculated with the extinction (532 nm) measured during the in-situ profiles was found to be strongly correlated with the volume of aerosols present in the boundary layer (BL). Despite the strong correlation, some variability remains, and we find that the presence of aerosol layers above the BL (in the buffer layer – BuL) introduces a significant uncertainties in PM2.5 estimates based on column-integrated measurements. This motivates the use of active remote sensing techniques to dramatically improve air quality retrievals. Since more than a quarter of the AOD values observed during DISCOVER-AQ are dominated by aerosol water uptake, the f(RH)amb (obtained from two nephelometers at different relative humidities – RHs) is used to study the impact of the aerosol hygroscopicity. The results indicate that PM2.5 can be predicted within a factor of 1.6 even when the vertical variability of the f(RH)amb is assumed to be negligible.
On clocks and clouds
Authors: Witte M. K. , Chuang P. Y. , Feingold G.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. Cumulus clouds exhibit a life cycle that consists of: (a) the growth phase (increasing size, most notably in the vertical direction); (b) the mature phase (growth ceases; any precipitation that develops is strongest during this period); and (c) the dissipation phase (cloud dissipates because of precipitation and/or entrainment; no more dynamical support). Although radar can track clouds over time and give some sense of the age of a cloud, most aircraft in situ measurements lack temporal context. We use large eddy simulations of trade wind cumulus cloud fields from cases during the Barbados Oceanographic and Meteorological Experiment (BOMEX) and Rain In Cumulus over the Ocean (RICO) campaigns to demonstrate a potential cumulus cloud "clock". We find that the volume-averaged total water mixing ratio rt is a useful cloud clock for the 12 clouds studied. A cloud's initial rt is set by the subcloud mixed-layer mean rt and decreases monotonically from the initial value due primarily to entrainment. The clock is insensitive to aerosol loading, environmental sounding and extrinsic cloud properties such as lifetime and volume. In some cases (more commonly for larger clouds), multiple pulses of buoyancy occur, which complicate the cumulus clock by replenishing rt. The clock is most effectively used to classify clouds by life phase.
Global stratospheric chlorine inventories for 2004–2009 from Atmospheric Chemistry Experiment Fourier Transform Spectrometer (ACE-FTS) measurements
Authors: Brown A. T. , Chipperfield M. P. , Dhomse S. , Boone C. , Bernath P. F.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. We present chlorine budgets calculated between 2004 and 2009 for four latitude bands (70° N–30° N, 30° N–0° N, 0° N–30° S, and 30° S–70° S). The budgets were calculated using ACE-FTS version 3.0 retrievals of the volume mixing ratios (VMRs) of 9 chlorine-containing species: CCl4, CFC-12 (CCl2F2), CFC-11 (CCl3F), COCl2, COClF, HCFC-22 (CHF2Cl), CH3Cl, HCl and ClONO2. These data were supplemented with calculated VMRs from the SLIMCAT 3-D chemical transport model (CFC-113, CFC-114, CFC-115, H-1211, H-1301, HCFC-141b, HCFC-142b, ClO and HOCl). The total chlorine profiles are dominated by chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and halons up to 24 km in the tropics and 19 km in the extra-tropics. In this altitude range CFCs and halons account for 58% of the total chlorine VMR. Above this altitude HCl increasingly dominates the total chlorine profile, reaching a maximum of 95% of total chlorine at 54 km. All total chlorine profiles exhibit a positive slope with altitude, suggesting that the total chlorine VMR is now decreasing with time. This conclusion is supported by the time series of the mean stratospheric total chlorine budgets which show mean decreases in total stratospheric chlorine of 0.38 ± 0.03% per year in the Northern Hemisphere extra-tropics, 0.35 ± 0.07% per year in the Northern Hemisphere tropical stratosphere, 0.54 ± 0.16% per year in the Southern Hemisphere tropics and 0.53 ± 0.12% per year in the Southern Hemisphere extra-tropical stratosphere for 2004–2009. Globally stratospheric chlorine is decreasing by 0.46 ± 0.02% per year. Both global warming potential-weighted chlorine and ozone depletion potential-weighted chlorine are decreasing at all latitudes. These results show that the Montreal Protocol has had a significant effect in reducing emissions of both ozone-depleting substances and greenhouse gases.
Vehicle emissions of greenhouse gases and related tracers from a tunnel study: CO : CO2, N2O : CO2, CH4 : CO2, O2 : CO2 ratios, and the stable isotopes 13C and 18O in CO2 and CO
Authors: Popa M. E. , Vollmer M. K. , Jordan A. , Brand W. A. , Pathirana S. L. , Rothe M. , Röckmann T.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. Measurements of CO2, CO, N2O and CH4 mole fractions, O2/N2 ratios and the stable isotopes 13C and 18O in CO2 and CO have been performed in air samples from the highway tunnel Islisberg (Switzerland). The CO : CO2 ratios, with an average of (4.15 ± 0.34) ppb : ppm, are lower than reported by previous studies, pointing to a reduction in CO emissions from traffic. The 13C in CO2 reflects the isotopic composition of the fuel. 18O in CO2 is slightly depleted compared to the 18O in atmospheric O2, and shows significant variability. In contrast, the δ13C values of CO show that significant fractionation takes place during CO destruction in the catalytic converter. 13C in CO is enriched by 3 ‰ compared to the 13C in the fuel burnt, while the 18O content is similar to that of atmospheric O2. We compute a fractionation constant of (−2.7 ± 0.7) ‰ for 13C during CO destruction. The N2O : CO2 average ratio (1.8 ± 0.2) × 10−2 ppb : ppm is significantly lower than in past studies, showing a reduction in N2O emissions likely related to improvements in the catalytic technology. We also observed small CH4 emissions, with an average CH4 : CO2 ratio of (4.6 ± 0.2) × 10−2 ppb : ppm. The O2 : CO2 ratios of (−1.47 ± 0.01) ppm : ppm are very close to the expected, theoretically calculated values.
Magnetic field generation in a jet-sheath plasma via the kinetic Kelvin-Helmholtz instability
Authors: Nishikawa K.-I. , Hardee P. , Zhang B. , Duţan I. , Medvedev M. , Choi E. J. , Min K. W. , Niemiec J. , Mizuno Y. , Nordlund A. , Frederiksen J. T. , Sol H. , Pohl M. , Hartmann D. H.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. We have investigated the generation of magnetic fields associated with velocity shear between an unmagnetized relativistic jet and an unmagnetized sheath plasma. We have examined the strong magnetic fields generated by kinetic shear (Kelvin–Helmholtz) instabilities. Compared to the previous studies using counter-streaming performed by Alves et al. (2012), the structure of the kinetic Kelvin–Helmholtz instability (KKHI) of our jet-sheath configuration is slightly different, even for the global evolution of the strong transverse magnetic field. In our simulations the major components of growing modes are the electric field Ez, perpendicular to the flow boundary, and the magnetic field By, transverse to the flow direction. After the By component is excited, an induced electric field Ex, parallel to the flow direction, becomes significant. However, other field components remain small. We find that the structure and growth rate of KKHI with mass ratios mi/me = 1836 and mi/me = 20 are similar. In our simulations saturation in the nonlinear stage is not as clear as in counter-streaming cases. The growth rate for a mildly-relativistic jet case (γj = 1.5) is larger than for a relativistic jet case (γj = 15).
Leaf level emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOC) from some Amazonian and Mediterranean plants
Authors: Bracho-Nunez A. , Knothe, N. M. , Welter S. , Staudt M. , Costa W. R. , Liberato M. A. R. , Piedade M. T. F. , Kesselmeier J.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. Emission inventories defining regional and global biogenic volatile organic compounds (VOC) emission strengths are needed to determine the impact of VOC on atmospheric chemistry (oxidative capacity) and physics (secondary organic aerosol formation and effects). The aim of this work was to contribute with measurements of tree species from the poorly described tropical vegetation in direct comparison with the quite well-investigated, highly heterogeneous emissions from Mediterranean vegetation. VOC emission from sixteen plant species from the Mediterranean area were compared with twelve plant species from different environments of the Amazon basin by an emission screening at leaf level using branch enclosures. Analysis of the volatile organics was performed online by a proton-transfer-reaction mass spectrometer (PTR-MS) and offline by collection on adsorbent tubes and subsequent gas chromatographic analysis. Isoprene was the most dominant compound emitted followed by monoterpenes, methanol and acetone. The average loss rates of VOC carbon in relation to the net CO2 assimilation were found below 4% and indicating normal unstressed plant behavior. Most of the Mediterranean species emitted a large variety of monoterpenes, whereas only five tropical species were identified as monoterpene emitters exhibiting a quite conservative emission pattern (α-pinene < limonene < sabinene < ß-pinene). Mediterranean plants showed additional emissions of sesquiterpenes. In the case of Amazonian plants no sesquiterpenes were detected. However, missing of sesquiterpenes may also be due to a lack of sensitivity of the measuring systems. Furthermore, our screening activities cover only 1% of tree species of such tropical areas as estimated based on recent biodiversity reports. Methanol emissions, an indicator of growth, were found to be common in most of the tropical and Mediterranean species. A few species from both ecosystems showed acetone emissions. The observed heterogeneous emissions, including reactive VOC species which are not easily detected by flux measurements, give reason to perform more screening at leaf level and, whenever possible, within the forests under ambient conditions.
Technical Note: Dissolved organic matter fluorescence – a finite mixture approach to deconvolve excitation-emission matrices
Authors: Butturini A. , Ejarque E.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. The analysis of the shape of excitation-emission matrices (EEMs) is a relevant tool for exploring the origin, transport and fate of dissolved organic matter (DOM) in aquatic ecosystems. Within this context, the decomposition of EEMs is acquiring a notable relevance. A simple mathematical algorithm that automatically deconvolves individual EEMs is described, creating new possibilities for the comparison of DOM fluorescence properties and EEMs that are very different from each other. A mixture model approach is adopted to decompose complex surfaces into sub-peaks. The laplacian operator and the Nelder-Mead optimisation algorithm are implemented to individuate and automatically locate potential peaks in the EEM landscape. The EEMs of a simple artificial mixture of fluorophores and DOM samples collected in a Mediterranean river are used to describe the model application and to illustrate a strategy that optimises the search for the optimal output.
Dynamics of particulate organic carbon flux in a global ocean model
Authors: Lima I. D. , Lam P. J. , Doney S. C.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. The sinking of particulate organic carbon (POC) is a key component of the ocean carbon cycle and plays an important role in the global climate system. However, the processes controlling the fraction of primary production that is exported from the euphotic zone (export ratio) and how much of it survives respiration in the mesopelagic to be sequestered in the deep ocean (transfer efficiency) are not well understood. In this study, we use a three-dimensional, coupled physical-biogeochemical model (CCSM-BEC) to investigate the processes controlling the export of particulate organic matter from the euphotic zone and its flux to depth. We also compare model results with sediment trap data and other parameterizations of POC flux to depth to evaluate model skill and gain further insight into the causes of error and uncertainty in POC flux estimates. In the model, export ratios are mainly a function of diatom relative abundance and temperature while absolute fluxes and transfer efficiency are driven by mineral ballast composition of sinking material. The temperature dependence of the POC remineralization length scale is modulated by denitrification under low O2 concentrations and lithogenic (dust) fluxes. Lithogenic material is an important control of transfer efficiency in the model, but its effect is restricted to regions of strong atmospheric dust deposition. In the remaining regions, CaCO3 content of exported material is the main factor affecting transfer efficiency. The fact that mineral ballast composition is inextricably linked to plankton community structure results in correlations between export ratios and ballast minerals fluxes (opal and CaCO3), and transfer efficiency and diatom relative abundance that do not necessarily reflect ballast or direct ecosystem effects, respectively. This suggests that it might be difficult to differentiate between ecosystem and ballast effects in observations. The model's skill at reproducing sediment trap observations is equal to or better than that of other parameterizations. However, the sparseness and relatively large uncertainties of sediment trap data makes it difficult to accurately evaluate the skill of the model and other parameterizations. More POC flux observations, over a wider range of ecological regimes, are necessary to thoroughly evaluate and test model results and better understand the processes controlling POC flux to depth in the ocean.
Seasonal changes in glacial polynya activity inferred from Weddell Sea varves
Authors: Sprenk D. , Weber M. E. , Kuhn G. , Wennrich V. , Hartmann T. , Seelos K.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. The Weddell Sea and the associated Filchner-Rønne Ice Shelf constitute key regions for global bottom-water production today. However, little is known about bottom-water production under different climate and ice-sheet conditions. Therefore, we studied core PS1795, which consists primarily of fine-grained siliciclastic varves that were deposited on contourite ridges in the southeastern Weddell Sea during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM). We conducted high-resolution X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis and grain-size measurements with the RADIUS tool (Seelos and Sirocko, 2005) using thin sections to characterize the two seasonal components of the varves at sub-mm resolution to distinguish the seasonal components of the varves. Bright layers contain coarser grains that can mainly be identified as quartz in the medium to coarse silt grain size. They also contain higher amounts of Si, Zr, Ca, and Sr, as well as more ice-rafted debris (IRD). Dark layers, on the other hand, contain finer particles such as mica and clay minerals from the chlorite and illite groups. In addition, chemical elements, Fe, Ti, Rb, and K are elevated as well. Based on these findings as well as on previous analyses on neighbouring cores, we propose a model of glacially enhanced thermohaline convection in front of a grounded ice sheet that is supported by seasonally variable coastal polynya activity. Accordingly, katabatic (i.e. offshore blowing) winds removed sea ice from the ice edge, leading to coastal polynya formation. We suggest that glacial processes were similar to today with stronger katabatic winds and enhanced coastal polynya activity during the winter season. If this is correct, silty layers are likely glacial winter deposits, when brine rejection was increased, leading to enhanced bottom water formation and increased sediment transport. Vice versa, finer-grained clayey layers were then deposited during summer, when coastal polynya activity was likely reduced.
The role of the North Atlantic overturning and deep-ocean for multi-decadal global-mean-temperature variability
Authors: Schleussner C. F. , Runge J. , Lehmann J. , Levermann A.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. Earth's climate exhibits internal modes of variability on various time scales. Here we investigate multi-decadal variability of the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (AMOC) in the control runs of an ensemble of CMIP5 models. By decomposing global-mean-temperature (GMT) variance into contributions of the AMOC and Northern Hemisphere sea-ice extent using a graph-theoretical statistical approach, we find the AMOC to contribute 8% to GMT variability in the ensemble mean. Our results highlight the importance of AMOC sea-ice feedbacks that explain 5% of the GMT variance, while the contribution solely related to the AMOC is found to be about 3%. As a consequence of multi-decadal AMOC variability, we report substantial variations in North Atlantic deep-ocean heat content with trends of up to 0.7 × 1022 J decade−1 that are of the order of observed changes over the last decade and consistent with the reduced GMT warming trend over this period. Although these temperature anomalies are largely density-compensated by salinity changes, we find a robust negative correlation between the AMOC and North Atlantic deep-ocean density with density lagging the AMOC by 5 to 11 yr in most models. While this would in principle allow for a self-sustained oscillatory behavior of the coupled AMOC–deep-ocean system, our results are inconclusive about the role of this feedback in the model ensemble.
TRANSFORMING 2D CADASTRAL DATA INTO A DYNAMIC SMART 3D MODEL
Authors: Tsiliakou E. , Labropoulos T. , Dimopoulou E.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. 3D property registration has become an imperative need in order to optimally reflect all complex cases of the multilayer reality of property rights and restrictions, revealing their vertical component. This paper refers to the potentials and multiple applications of 3D cadastral systems and explores the current state-of-the art, especially the available software with which 3D visualization can be achieved. Within this context, the Hellenic Cadastre's current state is investigated, in particular its data modeling frame. Presenting the methodologies and specifications addressing the registration of 3D properties, the operating cadastral system's shortcomings and merits are pointed out. Nonetheless, current technological advances as well as the availability of sophisticated software packages (proprietary or open source) call for 3D modeling. In order to register and visualize the complex reality in 3D, Esri's CityEngine modeling software has been used, which is specialized in the generation of 3D urban environments, transforming 2D GIS Data into Smart 3D City Models. The application of the 3D model concerns the Campus of the National Technical University of Athens, in which a complex ownership status is established along with approved special zoning regulations. The 3D model was built using different parameters based on input data, derived from cadastral and urban planning datasets, as well as legal documents and architectural plans. The process resulted in a final 3D model, optimally describing the cadastral situation and built environment and proved to be a good practice example of 3D visualization.
OBLIQUE PHOTOGRAMMETRY AND USAGE ON LAND ADMINISTRATION
Authors: Kisa A. , Ozmus L. , Erkek B. , Ates H. B. , Bakici S.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. Projects based on Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have started within the body of the General Directorate of Land Registry and Cadastre (GDLRC) by the Land Registry and Cadastre Information System (LRCIS) in the beginning of 2000s. LRCIS was followed by other projects which are Turkish National Geographic Information System (TNGIS), Continuously Operating GPS Reference Stations (CORS-TR), Geo Metadata Portal (GMP), Orthophoto Web Services, Completion of Initial Cadastre, Cadastre Renovation Project (CRP), 2B and Land Registry Achieve Information System (LRAIS). When examining the projects generated by GDLRC, it is realized that they include basic functions of land administration required for sustainable development. Sustainable development is obtained through effective land administration as is known. Nowadays, land use becomes more intense as a result of rapid population increase. The importance of land ownership has increased accordingly. At this point, the necessity of cadastre appears. In Turkey, cadastral registration is carried out by the detection of parcels. In other words, it is obtained through the division of land surface into 2D boundaries and mapping of them. However, existing land administration systems have begun to lose their efficiency while coping with rights, restrictions and responsibilities (RRRs) belonging to land which become more complicated day by day. Overlapping and interlocking constructions appear particularly in urban areas with dense housing and consequently, the problem of how to project these structures onto the surface in 2D cadastral systems has arisen. Herein, the necessity of 3D cadastre concept and 3D property data is confronted. In recent years, oblique photogrammetry, whose applications are gradually spreading, is used as an effective method for producing 3D data. In this study, applications of oblique photogrammetry and usability of oblique images as base for 3D Cadastre and Land Administration projects are examined.
A GENERIC AUGMENTED REALITY TELESCOPE FOR HERITAGE VALORIZATION
Authors: Chendeb S. , Ridene T. , Leroy L.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. Heritage valorisation is one of the greatest challenges that face countries in preserving their own identity from the globalization process. One of those scientific areas which allow this valorisation to be more attractive and at its bravest is the augmented reality. In this paper, we present an innovative augmented reality telescope used by tourists to explore a panoramic view with optional zooming facility, allowing thereby an accurate access to heritage information. The telescope we produced is generic, ergonomic, extensible, and modular by nature. It is designed to be conveniently set up anywhere in the world. We improve the practical use of our system by testing it right in the heart of Paris within a specific use case.