bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Routing Algorithm for Delay Tolerance in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Li Cong , Dong Shujuan
Published: November 2016

In a regular sensor node, there are three activities that are the core sources of energy consumption i.e. sensing, computation, and radio operations. Multi-Group, a novel routing algorithm based on LEACH (MG-LEACH) that has been utilized in redundant deployed sensor nodes to improve the network lifetime is explored. It has been suppressing the correlated data gathered by the sensor nodes by monitoring the similar event, thus not only reducing the data transmission inside the clusters but also conserving the energy of deployed sensor nodes consequently to improve the overall network lifetime. The proposed routing algorithm has been simulated using MATLAB to verify the efficiency in enhancing network lifetime. A critical evaluation of routing algorithm is conducted to determine the relevance and applicability in increasing network lifetime. Simulation results demonstrated that it has performed better than LEACH and enhanced network lifetime by up to approximately 90%.
Remote System for Oil Spill Detection Based on ZigBee and GIS
Authors: Hou Huishu , Zhang Guojun
Published: November 2016

In order to solve the problem of long delay time and low data precision, a remote system for oil spill detection based on ZigBee and GIS is designed in this paper. This paper analytically summarizes the results obtained from surveying spectral characteristics of spill oil film at sea. M along use of AVHRR and TM data, the image of oil spill in several marine accidents has been processed and identified, and the place and area of oil spill in obtaining images are the same as investigation in the scene of accidents. Simulation results show that the proposed system which bases on the ZigBee and GIS can thus improve overall system performance substantially.
Data Aggregation in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Luo Li
Published: November 2016

In order to solve the problem of low efficiency and high energy consumption in data processing, In this paper, for reducing the communication overhead of data aggregation, we put forward a cluster division based data aggregation scheme for wireless sensor networks in which the cluster is divided into three subareas and some report nodes are assigned to each subarea. Simulation results show that, compared with LEACH algorithm, BP neural network and PSO-BP algorithm, more than 50% lower compression error is decreased and the simplicity of the improved algorithm makes it suitable for massive and the long term environmental monitoring network.
Privacy Protection of Node Location and Data in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: He Huan
Published: November 2016

In order to solve the problem of low safety and low efficiency in distributed data protection in wireless sensor networks, a new method for privacy protection of node location and data in wireless sensor networks is researched in this paper. The author develops a novel architectural framework that observes user-specific patterns to distinguish between legitimate users and illegitimate user’s thus enhancing and strengthening user authentication. An engine that calculates the authentication score (the similarity of features of the past and recent behaviors) for a given user is proposed. Simulation results show that the proposed method can improve overall system performance substantially.
A Radio Frequency Identification Technology- Based Positioning and Interference Suppression System for Library Books
Authors: Zhang Xiaoguang , Zhao Yijie , Zhao Wei
Published: November 2016

Large scale path loss modeling plays a fundamental role in designing both fixed and mobile radio systems. Wireless system are complex systems, so that prediction of the radio coverage is not done in an exact manner. Therefore before setting the system we need to choose a proper model of predicting path loss and interference. These proper methods depend upon the system environment, desired radio coverage and system frequency. In this paper of predicting path loss and interference analysis of UHF-RFID, we try to eliminate the problems associated of positioning and interference suppression system of library books to RFID systems. Simulation results show that the proposed method can thus improve overall system performance substantially.
The Improvement of LEACH Algorithm in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Dong Shujuan , Li Cong
Published: November 2016

This paper covers a novel routing algorithm called Multi-Group based LEACH (MG-LEACH) that has been utilized the redundant deployed sensor nodes to improve the network life time. It has been suppressing the correlated data gathered by the sensor nodes by monitoring the similar event. Thus reduces not only the data transmission inside the clusters but also conserve the energy of deployed sensor nodes consequently improve the overall network lifetime. This is a simple idea that has been implemented over LEACH protocol however it is valid for almost all clustering based routing algorithms/protocols specially those variants based upon frame work of LEACH. The proposed routing algorithm has been simulated using MATLAB to verify the efficiency in enhancing network life time. A critical evaluation of routing algorithm is conducted to determine the relevance and applicability in increasing network life time. Simulation results confirmed that it has performed better than LEACH and enhanced network life time up to approximately 90%.
A influência de programas de capacitação na construção da identidade profissional: O caso do CI-Brasile da Microeletrônica
Authors: Sarmento Alexandre Guilherme Motta , Oliveira Jaqueline Ferreira Freitas Cortes de , Maia Jackson Max Furtunato , Martins João Baptista dos Santos
Published: November 2016

Buscou-se um modelo de análise de percepção da identidade profissional com bases mais quantitativas. Identidade é um tema muito discutido nas ciências sociais, havendo um consenso da dificuldade na forma de se identificar sua construção social e, mesmo, sua percepção pelos próprios indivíduos. A identidade profissional não é diferente. Assim, o propósito aqui foi mostrar como uma política pública de formação e fixação de indivíduos para o setor de microeletrônica afetou, nos últimos 10 anos, os profissionais da área. Para tanto, usaram-se ferramentas de análise de redes sociais, para identificar semelhanças semânticas na produção acadêmica e técnica de pesquisadores vinculados ao CA-ME e de bolsistas do programa CI-Brasil. A seguir, utilizaram-se os dados coletados para caracterizar, a partir da distribuição de palavras-chave recolhidas ao longo do tempo, a evolução da identidade dos sujeitos. Os resultados indicam que as redes sociais montadas por nosso estudo, a partir da análise semântica das palavras-chave da produção dos pesquisadores de microeletrônica, são um bom marcador da identidade do grupo.
Ser ou estar no lugar?: Um ensaio sobre espacialidades, memórias e identidades
Authors: Freitas Jéssica Soares de , Almeida Maria Geralda De
Published: November 2016

O presente trabalho tem por objetivo debater sobre o modo como se dá a relação do ser e estar no lugar e como essa relação pode ser compreendida na contemporaneidade. Para tal finalidade, considera-se memória e identidade conceitos essenciais para a compreensão do sentido e significado de lugar. Adota-se a abordagem cultural na geografia com viés pós-modernista da ciência para a elaboração de um texto de caráter teórico-metodológico. Desse modo, entende-se que, para o sujeito, a dialética entre lembrar e pertencer para com seu lugar é sempre viva e dinâmica, o que promove um devir criativo em seu mundo vivido. Ser e estar no lugar representam um amálgama de significações que dão complexidade à vida passada, presente e futura do sujeito.
Nanotecnologia e água no Brasil
Authors: Silveira Sandra Maria Batista , Foladori Guillermo
Published: November 2016

O texto analisa a situação da pesquisa e do desenvolvimento das nanotecnologias para tratamento de água (nano-água), com os propósitos de potabilizar, dessalinizar e/ou despoluir cursos de água no Brasil. Com esses objetivos, revisam-se  as informações fornecidas pelo Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia e Inovação – MCTI - sobre pesquisas que receberam financiamento público no período de 2004 a 2012 e os grupos de pesquisa vinculados ao Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico – CNPq. Conclui-se que, no total de pesquisas desenvolvidas sobre nano-água no Brasil, a maioria diz respeito à remediação ambiental, o que indica as potencialidades no sentido da despoluição de importantes corpos de água. E, de fato, há  suficiente infraestrutura e recursos humanos para a execução de uma política pública, direcionada a solucionar problemas de água para as populações com dificuldades no acesso, a partir da aplicação de nanotecnologias específicas. Porém não existe uma política pública sólida de acompanhamento das novas tecnologias com estudos dos potenciais riscos associados, o que levanta incertezas sobre a sustentabilidade da aplicação das nanotecnologias.
An Exploratory Study Identifying a Possible Response Shift Phenomena of the Glasgow Hearing Aid Benefit Profile
Authors: Arthur Jonathan , Watts Tessa , Davies Ruth , Manchaiah Vinaya , Slater Julie
Published: November 2016

A then-test technique was used to investigate the possibility of a response shift in the Glasgow hearing aid benefit profile (GHABP). Following completion of part 1 of the GHABP, 16 adults were invited for hearing-aid follow up appointments. In accordance with then-test technique, participants were asked to think back to before they had their hearing-aids fitted and the GHABP part 1 was completed again to re-establish the disability and handicap scores. These scores were then compared with the initial GHABP part I scores. Paired T testing and Wilcoxon Rank tests were carried out to investigate the statistical significance of the response shift effect. Statistically significant differences were seen between initial and retrospective GHABP (disability) scores using t test. No significant differences could be seen between the initial and retrospective handicap scores. Results suggest participants may have demonstrated a possible response shift phenomenon with the disability construct of the GHABP questionnaire, related to a possible re-calibration effect or a denial of disability effect. This exploratory study suggests that the GHABP questionnaire may be subject to a response shift phenomena. We suggest that further more robust studies are completed to verify this and recommend that this could have psychological impact on participants when explaining the results of the outcome measure and may affect hearing aid use. There is also potential for this phenomenon to affect global GHABP scores specifically when demonstrating to stakeholders the overall success of an audiology service.
Intraspinal Lumbar Juxtaarticular Cyst Treatment through CT-Guided Percutaneus Induced Rupture Results in a Favorable Patient Outcome
Authors: Kursumovic Adisa , Bostelmann Richard , Gollwitzer Maria , Rath Stefan , Steiger Hans Jakob , Petridis Athanasios K.
Published: November 2016

Juxta-articular cysts are synovial cysts originating from the facet joints or the flava ligaments. If they grow intra-spinally they can compress nervous structures and cause a variety of symptoms. Micro-neurosurgery is usually the treatment of choice. Alternatively to surgical treatment the cyst can be approached and treated with a CT guided percutaneous injection inducing rupture. After fulfilling strict selection criteria twenty patients (25% of all treated lumbar synovial cyst patients), were treated minimally invasive by this method from 2010–2016. The facet joint was punctured under CT guidance and a mixture of a local anesthetic and contrast liquid was injected until the cyst was blasted. The mean follow-up period was 1.1 years (range 2 weeks–5 years). Fifteen of twenty procedures were successful and cyst rupture was confirmed by CTscans. Twelve of these fifteen patients experienced a significant improvement of their symptoms and needed no further intervention or surgical procedure up until now, three patients showed no clinical improvement and were treated surgically within one week after cyst rupture. In five patients it was technically not possible to rupture the cyst. These patients were treated microsurgically by cyst resection and dynamic stabilization or fusion procedures. The percutaneus rupture of juxtaarticular cysts has fewer risks and is cost effective compared to microsurgical resection. It may be an alternative to surgical treatment for a selected group of patients. However there are some limitations to the procedure though, such as difficult patient selection, unpredictable outcome or technical problems due to highly degenerated facet joints.
Hypertension and angiotensin system inhibitors in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Derosa Lisa , Izzedine Hassane , Albiges Laurence , Escudier Bernard
Published: November 2016

Arterial hypertension (HTN) is a class effect of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapies, including the monoclonal antibody bevacizumab. Data are conflicting regarding the role of the renin-angiotensin system on angiogenesis and recent data suggest that the use of angiotensin system inhibitors (ASIs; angiotensin receptor blockers or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors) is associated with improved survival in metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC), particularly when used with VEGF targeted therapies. The aim of this review is to discuss the available treatment options for mRCC and associated incidence of hypertension as well as summarize the known data about ASIs use and mRCC. Additionally, given that the optimal management of HTN remains unclear, we will focus on prevention strategies and propose potential therapeutic approaches.
Bone marrow blood vessels: normal and neoplastic niche
Authors: Shahrabi Saeid , Rezaeeyan Hadi , Ahmadzadeh Ahmad , Shahjahani Mohammad , Saki Najmaldin
Published: November 2016

Blood vessels are among the most important factors in the transport of materials such as nutrients and oxygen. This study will review the role of blood vessels in normal bone marrow hematopoiesis as well as pathological conditions like leukemia and metastasis. Relevant literature was identified by a Pubmed search (1992-2016) of English-language papers using the terms bone marrow, leukemia, metastasis, and vessel. Given that blood vessels are conduits for the transfer of nutrients, they create a favorable situation for cancer cells and cause their growth and development. On the other hand, blood vessels protect leukemia cells against chemotherapy drugs. Finally, it may be concluded that the vessels are an important factor in the development of malignant diseases.
Eskatologie by Gerhard Ebeling
Authors: Van Wyk Ignatius W.C.
Published: November 2016

This article presents the eschatology of the German theologian Gerhard Ebeling (1912–2001). Concentration falls on his views on death and life after death. Only a selection of his writings has been used for this article (originally a paper at a symposium on the life and work of Ebeling). Ebeling was one of the great Luther-researchers of the 20th century. The article is therefore also about Luther’s views on death and life after death. Ebeling’s eschatology cannot be separated from Luther’s eschatology; hence, many notes on Luther’s works have been taken up in the article.
An appreciative contextual response to Jean-Pierre Wils, ‘Is there a future for “medical ethics”?’ Just Health as a public theological concern
Authors: Forster Dion A.
Published: November 2016

This article takes the form of an appreciative contextual response to the notion of ‘just health’ that is formulated in Jean-Pierre Wils’ article, ‘Is there a future for medical ethics?’ It approaches the notion of just health in the South African context from a public theological vantage point. The article addresses the issues of justice, care and the future of ‘medical ethics’ by adopting a position that seeks to constructively engage empire, economics and apathy in relation to just health in South Africa.
Long-range atmospheric transport of volatile monocarboxylic acids with Asian dust over a high mountain snow site, central Japan
Authors: Mochizuki Tomoki , Kawamura Kimitaka , Aoki Kazuma , Sugimoto Nobuo
Published: November 2016

Abstract. To understand the long-range transport of monocarboxylic acids from the Asian continent to the Japanese islands, we collected snowpack samples from a pit sequence (depth ca. 6 m) at the Murodo-Daira snowfield near the summit of Mt. Tateyama, central Japan, in 2009 and 2011. Snow samples (n = 16) were analyzed for normal (C1–C10), branched chain (iC4–iC6), aromatic (benzoic and toluic acid isomers), and hydroxyl (glycolic and lactic) monocarboxylic acids, together with inorganic ions and dissolved organic carbon (DOC). Acetic acid (C2) was found to be a dominant species (average 125 ng g−1), followed by formic acid (C1) (85.7 ng g−1) and isopentanoic acid (iC5) (20.0 ng g−1). We found a strong correlation (r =  0.88) between formic plus acetic acids and non-sea-salt Ca2+ that is a proxy of Asian dust. Contributions of total monocarboxylic acids to DOC in 2009 (21.2 ± 11.6 %) were higher than that in 2011 (3.75 ± 2.62 %), being consistent with higher intensity of Asian dust in 2009 than in 2011. Formic plus acetic acids also showed a positive correlation (r =  0.90) with benzoic acid that is a tracer of automobile exhaust, indicating that monocarboxylic acids and their precursors are largely emitted from anthropogenic sources in China and/or secondarily produced in the atmosphere by photochemical processing. In addition, the ratio of formic plus acetic acids to nss–Ca2+ (0.27) was significantly higher than those (0.00036–0.0018) obtained for reference dust materials of Chinese loess deposits from the Tengger and Gobi deserts. This result suggests that volatile and semi-volatile organic acids are adsorbed on the alkaline dust particles during long-range atmospheric transport. Entrainment of organic acids by dusts is supported by a good correlation (r = 0.87) between formic plus acetic acids and pH of melt snow samples. Our study suggests that Asian alkaline dusts may be a carrier of volatile monocarboxylic acids.
Wildfire influences on the variability and trend of summer surface ozone in the mountainous western United States
Authors: Lu Xiao , Zhang Lin , Yue Xu , Zhang Jiachen , Jaffe Daniel A. , Stohl Andreas , Zhao Yuanhong , Shao Jingyuan
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Increasing wildfire activities in the mountainous western US may present a challenge for the region to attain a recently revised ozone air quality standard in summer. Using current Eulerian chemical transport models to examine the wildfire ozone influences is difficult due to uncertainties in fire emissions, inadequate model chemistry, and resolution. Here we quantify the wildfire influence on the ozone variability, trends, and number of high MDA8 (daily maximum 8 h average) ozone days over this region in summers (June, July, and August) 1989–2010 using a new approach. We define a fire index using retroplumes (plumes of back-trajectory particles) computed by a Lagrangian dispersion model (FLEXPART) and develop statistical models based on the fire index and meteorological parameters to interpret MDA8 ozone concentrations measured at 13 Intermountain West surface sites. We show that the statistical models are able to capture the ozone enhancements by wildfires and give results with some features different from the GEOS-Chem Eulerian chemical transport model. Wildfires enhance the Intermountain West regional summer mean MDA8 ozone by 0.3–1.5 ppbv (daily episodic enhancements reach 10–20 ppbv at individual sites) with large interannual variability, which are strongly correlated with the total MDA8 ozone. We find large fire impacts on the number of exceedance days; for the 13 CASTNet sites, 31 % of the summer days with MDA8 ozone exceeding 70 ppbv would not occur in the absence of wildfires.
3D evolution of Saharan dust transport towards Europe based on a 9-year EARLINET-optimized CALIPSO dataset
Authors: Marinou Eleni , Amiridis Vassilis , Binietoglou Ioannis , Solomos Stavros , Proestakis Emannouil , Konsta Dimitra , Tsikerdekis Athanasios , Papagiannopoulos Nikolaos , Vlastou Georgia , Zanis Prodromos , Balis Dimitrios , Wandinger Ulla , Ansmann Albert
Published: November 2016

Abstract. In this study we utilize a new dust product developed using CALIPSO observations and EARLINET measurements and methods to provide a 3D multiyear analysis on the evolution of Saharan dust over North Africa and Europe. The product utilizes CALIPSO L2 backscatter product corrected with a depolarization-based method to separate pure dust in external aerosol mixtures and an adjusted Saharan dust lidar ratio based on long-term EARLINET measurements. The methodology is applied on a nine-year CALIPSO dataset (2007–2015) and the results are analysed here to reveal for the first time the 3D dust evolution and the seasonal patterns of dust over its transportation paths from the Sahara towards the Mediterranean and Continental Europe. During spring, dust is uniformly distributed in the horizontal over the Sahara desert. The dust transport over the Mediterranean Sea results on mean Dust Optical Depth (DOD) values of 0.1. During summer, the dust activity is mostly shifted to the western part of the desert where mean DOD near the source is up to 0.6. Elevated dust plumes with mean extinction values between 10–75 Mm−1 are observed throughout the year at various heights between 2–6 km, extending up to latitudes of 40° N. Dust advection is identified even at latitudes of about 60° N, but this is due to rare events of episodic nature. Dust plumes of high DOD are also observed above Balkans during winter period and above North-West Europe during autumn at heights between 2–4 km, reaching mean extinction values up to 50 Mm−1. The dataset is considered unique with respect to its potential applications, including the evaluation of dust transport models and the estimation of cloud condensation and ice nuclei concentration profiles (CCN/IN). Finally, the product can be used to study dust dynamics during transportation, since it is capable of revealing even fine dynamical features such as the particle uplifting and deposition on European mountainous ridges such as Alps and Carpathian.
Soil trace gas fluxes along orthogonal precipitation and soil fertility gradients in tropical lowland forests of Panama
Authors: Matson Amanda L. , Corre Marife D. , Langs Kerstin , Veldkamp Edzo
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Tropical lowland forest soils are significant sources and sinks of trace gases. In order to model soil trace gas flux for future climate scenarios, it is necessary to be able to predict changes in soil trace gas fluxes along natural gradients of soil fertility and climatic characteristics. We quantified trace gas fluxes in lowland forest soils at five locations in Panama, which encompassed orthogonal precipitation and soil fertility gradients. Soil trace gas fluxes were measured monthly for one (NO) or two (CO2, CH4, N2O) years (2010–2012), using vented dynamic (for NO only) or static chambers with permanent bases. Across the five sites, annual fluxes ranged from: 8.0 to 10.2 Mg CO2-C ha−1 yr−1, −2.0 to −0.3 kg CH4-C ha−1 yr−1, 0.4 to 1.3 kg N2O-N ha−1 yr−1 and −0.82 to −0.03 kg NO-N ha−1 yr−1. Soil CO2 emissions did not differ across sites, but did exhibit clear seasonal differences and a parabolic pattern with soil moisture across sites. All sites were CH4 sinks; within-site fluxes were largely controlled by soil moisture whereas fluxes across sites were positively correlated with an integrated index of soil fertility. Soil N2O fluxes were low throughout the measurement years, but highest emissions occurred at a mid-precipitation site with high soil N availability. NO uptake in the soil occurred at all sites, with the highest uptake at the low-precipitation site closest to Panama City; NO uptake was likely due to high ambient NO concentrations from anthropogenic sources. Our study highlights the dual importance of short-term (climatic) and long-term (soil/site characteristics) factors in predicting soil trace gas fluxes.
Ice nucleators have shorter persistence in the atmosphere than
other airborne bacteria
Authors: Stopelli Emiliano , Conen Franz , Guilbaud Caroline , Zopfi Jakob , Alewell Christine , Morris Cindy E.
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Ice nucleation is a means by which the deposition of an airborne microorganism can be accelerated under favourable meteorological conditions. Analysis of 56 snow samples collected at the high altitude observatory Jungfraujoch (3580 m a.s.l.) revealed an order of magnitude larger dynamic range of ice nucleating particles active at −8 °C (INPs−8) compared to the total number of bacterial cells (60 % was on average living). This indicates a shorter atmospheric residence time for INPs−8. Furthermore, concentrations of INPs-8 decreased much faster, with an increasing fraction of water precipitated from the air mass prior to sampling, than the number of total bacterial cells. Nevertheless, at high wind speeds (> 50 km h−1) the ratio of INPs−8 to total bacterial cells largely remained in a range between 10−2 to 10−3, independent of prior precipitation, perhaps because of recent injections of particles in regions upwind. Based on our field observations, we conclude that ice nucleators travel shorter legs of distance with the atmospheric water cycle than the majority of bacterial cells. Pseudomonas syringae, a prominent ice nucleating bacterium, was successfully isolated from 3 of 13 samples analysed. Colony forming units of this species constituted a minor fraction (10−4) of the numbers of INPs−8 in these samples. Overall, our findings expand the geographic range of habitats where this bacterium has been found and corroborates theories on its robustness in the atmosphere and its propensity to spread and to colonise new plants.
Oceanic response to changes in the WAIS and astronomical forcing during the MIS31 superinterglacial
Authors: Justino Flavio , Lindemann Douglas , Kucharski Fred , Wilson Aaron , Bromwich David , Stordal Frode
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Marine Isotope Stage 31 (MIS31, between 1085 ka and 1055 ka) was characterized by higher extratropical air temperatures and a substantial recession of polar glaciers compared to today. Paleoreconstructions and modeling efforts have increased the understanding of MIS31 interval, but questions remain regarding the role of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans in modifying climate anomalies associated with the variations in Earth’s orbital parameters. Based on multi-century coupled climate simulations, it is shown that under the astronomical configuration of the MIS31 and forced by modified West Antarctic Ice Sheet (WAIS) topography, there exists a substantial increase in the thermohaline flux and its associated northward oceanic heat transport (OHT) in both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. In the Atlantic, these changes are driven by enhanced oceanic heat loss to the atmosphere and increased water density. In the Pacific, anomalous wind-driven circulation in concert with stronger meridional overturning circulation results in greater northward OHT that contributes up to 85 % of the global OHT anomalies, adding to an overall reduction in sea ice in the Northern Hemisphere (NH) due to Earth’s astronomical configuration at the time. Sea-ice changes in the Southern Hemisphere (SH) are highlighted by decreased (increased) cover in Ross (Weddell) Sea.
The PMIP4 contribution to CMIP6 – Part 3: the Last Millennium, Scientific Objective and Experimental Design for the PMIP4 past1000 simulations
Authors: Jungclaus Johann H. , Bard Edouard , Baroni Mélanie , Braconnot Pascale , Cao Jian , Chini Louise P. , Egorova Tania , Evans Michael , González-Rouco J. Fidel , Goosse Hugues , Hurtt Georges C. , Joos Fortunat , Kaplan Jed O. , Khodri Myriam , Klein Goldewijk Kees , Krivova Natalie , LeGrande Allegra N. , Lorenz Stephan J. , Luterbacher Jürg , Man Wenmin , Meinshausen Malte , Moberg Anders , Nehrbass-Ahles Christian , Otto-Bliesner Bette I. , Phipps Stephen J. , Pongratz Julia , Rozanov Eugene , Schmidt Gavin A. , Schmidt Hauke , Schmutz Werner , Schurer Andrew , Shapiro Alexander I. , Sigl Michael , Smerdon Jason E. , Solanki Sami K. , Timmreck Claudia , Toohey Matthew , Usoskin Ilya G. , Wagner Sebastian , Wu Chi-Yu , Yeo Kok L. , Zanchettin Davide , Zhang Qiong , Zorita Eduardo
Published: November 2016

Abstract. The pre-industrial millennium is among the periods selected by the Paleoclimate Model Intercomparison Project (PMIP) for experiments contributing to the sixth phase of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP6) and the fourth phase of PMIP (PMIP4). The past1000 transient simulations serve to investigate the response to (mainly) natural forcing under background conditions not too different from today, and to discriminate between forced and internally generated variability on interannual to centennial time scales. This manuscript describes the motivation and the experimental set-ups for the PMIP4-CMIP6 past1000 simulations, and discusses the forcing agents: orbital, solar, volcanic, land-use/land-cover changes, and variations in greenhouse gas concentrations. The past1000 simulations covering the pre-industrial millennium from 850 Common Era (CE) to 1849 CE have to be complemented by historical simulations (1850 to 2014 CE) following the CMIP6 protocol. The external forcings for the past1000 experiments have been adapted to provide a seamless transition across these time periods. Protocols for the past1000 simulations have been divided into three tiers. A default forcing data set has been defined for the “tier-1” (the CMIP6 past1000) experiment. However, the PMIP community has maintained the flexibility to conduct coordinated sensitivity experiments to explore uncertainty in forcing reconstructions as well as parameter uncertainty in dedicated “tier-2” simulations. Additional experiments (“tier-3”) are defined to foster collaborative model experiments focusing on the early instrumental period and to extend the temporal range and the scope of the simulations. This manuscript outlines current and future research foci and common analyses for collaborative work between the PMIP and the observational communities (reconstructions, instrumental data).
Reservoir storage and hydrologic responses to droughts in the Paraná River basin, south-eastern Brazil
Authors: Melo Davi de C. D. , Scanlon Bridget R. , Zhang Zizhan , Wendland Edson , Yin Lei
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Droughts are particularly critical for Brazil because of impacts on water supply and because most (70 %) of its electricity is derived from hydroelectric generation. The Paraná basin (PB), a major hydroelectric producing region with 32 % (60 million people) of Brazil's population, recently experienced the most severe drought since the 1960s, compromising the water supply for 11 million people in São Paulo. The objective of this study is to quantify linkages between meteorological and hydrological droughts based on remote sensing, modelling, and monitoring data using the Paraná River basin in south-eastern Brazil as a case study. Two major meteorological droughts were identified in the early 2000s and 2014, with precipitation 20–50 % below the long-term mean. Total water storage change estimated from the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) satellites declined by 150 km3 between April 2011 and April 2015. Simulated soil moisture storage declined during the droughts, resulting in decreased runoff into reservoirs. As a result, reservoir storage decreased by 30 % relative to the system's maximum capacity, with negative trends ranging from 17 (May 1997–April 2001) to 25 km3 yr−1 (May 2011–April 2015). Storage in upstream reservoirs is mostly controlled by natural climate forcing, whereas storage in downstream reservoirs also reflects dam operations. This study emphasizes the importance of integrating remote sensing, modelling, and monitoring data to evaluate droughts and to establish a preliminary understanding of the linkages between a meteorological and hydrological drought for future management.
Advantages of analytically computing the ground heat flux in land surface models
Authors: Pauwels Valentijn R. N. , Daly Edoardo
Published: November 2016

Abstract. It is generally accepted that the ground heat flux accounts for a significant fraction of the surface energy balance. In land surface models, the ground heat flux is typically estimated through a numerical solution of the heat conduction equation. Recent research has shown that this approach introduces errors in the estimation of the energy balance. In this paper, we calibrate a land surface model using a numerical solution of the heat conduction equation with four different vertical spatial resolutions. It is found that the thermal conductivity is the most sensitive parameter to the spatial resolution. More importantly, the thermal conductivity values are directly related to the spatial resolution, thus rendering any physical interpretation of this value irrelevant. The numerical solution is then replaced by an analytical solution. The results of the numerical and analytical solutions are identical when fine spatial and temporal resolutions are used. However, when using resolutions that are typical of land surface models, significant differences are found. When using the analytical solution, the ground heat flux is directly calculated without calculating the soil temperature profile. The calculation of the temperature at each node in the soil profile is thus no longer required, unless the model contains parameters that depend on the soil temperature, which in this study is not the case. The calibration is repeated, and thermal conductivity values independent of the vertical spatial resolution are obtained. The main conclusion of this study is that care must be taken when interpreting land surface model results that have been obtained using numerical ground heat flux estimates. The use of exact analytical solutions, when available, is recommended.
Integrated spatial assessment of wind erosion risk in Hungary
Authors: Pásztor László , Négyesi Gábor , Laborczi Annamária , Kovács Tamás , László Elemér , Bihari Zita
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Wind erosion susceptibility of Hungarian soils was mapped on the national level integrating three factors of the complex phenomenon of deflation (physical soil features, wind characteristics, and land use and land cover). Results of wind tunnel experiments on erodibility of representative soil samples were used for the parametrization of a countrywide map of soil texture compiled for the upper 5 cm layer of soil, which resulted in a map representing threshold wind velocity exceedance. Average wind velocity was spatially estimated with 0.5′ resolution using the Meteorological Interpolation based on Surface Homogenised Data Basis (MISH) method elaborated for the spatial interpolation of surface meteorological elements. The probability of threshold wind velocity exceedance was determined based on values predicted by the soil texture map at the grid locations. Ratio values were further interpolated to a finer 1 ha resolution using sand and silt content of the uppermost (0–5 cm) layer of soil as spatial co-variables. Land cover was also taken into account, excluding areas that are not relevant to wind erosion (forests, water bodies, settlements, etc.), to spatially assess the risk of wind erosion. According to the resulting map of wind erosion susceptibility, about 10 % of the total area of Hungary can be identified as susceptible to wind erosion. The map gives more detailed insight into the spatial distribution of wind-affected areas in Hungary compared to previous studies.
Estimating the extent of Antarctic summer sea ice during the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration
Authors: Edinburgh Tom , Day Jonathan J.
Published: November 2016

Abstract. In stark contrast to the sharp decline in Arctic sea ice, there has been a steady increase in ice extent around Antarctica during the last three decades, especially in the Weddell and Ross seas. In general, climate models do not to capture this trend and a lack of information about sea ice coverage in the pre-satellite period limits our ability to quantify the sensitivity of sea ice to climate change and robustly validate climate models. However, evidence of the presence and nature of sea ice was often recorded during early Antarctic exploration, though these sources have not previously been explored or exploited until now. We have analysed observations of the summer sea ice edge from the ship logbooks of explorers such as Robert Falcon Scott, Ernest Shackleton and their contemporaries during the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration (1897–1917), and in this study we compare these to satellite observations from the period 1989–2014, offering insight into the ice conditions of this period, from direct observations, for the first time. This comparison shows that the summer sea ice edge was between 1.0 and 1.7° further north in the Weddell Sea during this period but that ice conditions were surprisingly comparable to the present day in other sectors.
Effects of local advection on the spatial sensible heat flux variation on a mountain glacier
Authors: Sauter Tobias , Galos Stephan Peter
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Distributed mass balance models, which translate micrometeorological conditions into local melt rates, have proven deficient to reflect the energy flux variability on mountain glaciers. This deficiency is predominantly related to shortcomings in the representation of local processes in the forcing data. We found by means of idealized large-eddy simulations that heat advection, associated with local wind systems, causes small-scale sensible heat flux variations by up to 100 Wm−2 during clear sky conditions. Here we show that process understanding at a few observation sites is insufficient to infer the wind and temperature distributions across the glacier. The glacier-wide hourly averaged sensible heat fluxes are both over- and underestimated by up to 16 Wm−2 when using extrapolated temperature and wind fields. The sign and magnitude of the differences depend on the site selection, which is used for extrapolation as well as on the large-scale flow direction. Our results demonstrate how the shortcomings in the local sensible heat flux estimates are related to topographic effects and the insufficient characterization of the temperature advection process.
Evolução das inundações no sul do Brasil: o caso da Bacia Hidrográfica do Rio do Peixe
Authors: Dos Santos Elaine Cristina , De França Santos Márcio
Published: November 2016

Os desastres sócio-ambientais são muito recorrentes no estado de Santa Catarina, região do sul do Brasil, principalmente os que são relacionados com geomorfologia e pluviosidade como, deslizamentos, enxurradas, inundações e estiagens. Com base nisso, este estudo propõem uma análise aplicada às inundações na bacia hidrográfica do Rio do Peixe (meio-oeste catarinense) e relacionar com o aumento populacional, pluviosidade, oscilação da temperatura do Pacífico e características hipsométricas. Para a elaboração da análise foram levantados os dados de inundações registrados pelo relatório de avaliação de danos (AVADAN) e em correlação ao número de habitantes da região, segundo a série histórica do IBGE, períodos de oscilação da temperatura do Pacífico, conforme a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Os dados mostraram que as inundações mudaram de comportamento desde os anos 1980 até o ano de 2010, as inundações graduais se tornaram menos frequentes e as inundações bruscas aconteceram em maior número. Sendo que nos períodos de El Niño as inundações foram mais recorrentes, porém com maior ocorrência de inundação do tipo gradual e enquanto que nos períodos de La Niña as inundações graduais foram menos recorrentes e as bruscas aconteceram com mais assiduidade. Por outro lado, a população dos municípios da área de estudo também aumentou gradualmente de forma que acompanharam os aumentos dos registros de inundações.
Why Is English Pronunciation Ignored by EFL Teachers in Their Classes?
Authors: Pourhosein Gilakjani Abbas , Sabouri Narjes Banou
Published: November 2016

Understandable pronunciation is an important part of communicative competence. Individuals who have acceptable pronunciation can easily improve their language skills better than those who have weak pronunciation. Thus, English pronunciation is very significant for successful communication. Despite the fact that English pronunciation is very important for oral communication and communicative competence, it is sometimes neglected in many language teaching programs. This study examined Iranian teachers’ views toward English pronunciation instruction. A quantitative method was used to gather data by an instrument. The researchers used a questionnaire as the instrument of this study. 100 teachers voluntarily participated in this study. Data were collected and analyzed. The findings of this paper indicated that lack of time, motivation, resources, materials, and educational facilities like computer technologies prevented teachers from teaching pronunciation and if teachers want to include pronunciation into their classes, they should be equipped with these factors that can increase their success in teaching English pronunciation.
A Conversational Analysis Model for Promoting Practices of Interactional Competence in the EFL Context
Authors: Al-wossabi Sami Ali Nasr
Published: November 2016

Formulaic language is a typical feature of textbooks materials used in EFL classes. EFL students are not engaged in the process of recognizing how naturally occurring speech takes place and is carried on. EFL learners in their helpless attempts to converse with others may tend to memorize formulaic fixed expressions and sometimes whole conversations. Following a conversation analysis approach, the present study explores the significance of involving Saudi EFL learners in understanding the flow and structure of spontaneous and interactive conversation. A sample of an excerpt taken from a conversation of an American TV talk show was recorded and transcribed. Practices of interactional competence such as conversational organization, situational characteristics, lexical choices, linguistics devices, and other conventions of speech behavior are identified and then discussed in details. This CA approach is, therefore, meant to serve as a model of salient interactive practices and norms that present the conversational system of actual everyday talk. The purpose is to raise EFL learners’ awareness of the socio-cultural features of real-world communication and enhance their interactional skills necessary to boost their communicative competencies.
Assessing the English Translation of BFSU’s New Motto
Authors: Ma Zuqiong
Published: November 2016

The motto is a potent marketing tool in today’s globalized site of higher education. Beijing Foreign Studies University (BFSU) adopted a new motto in 2011 to reflect its new self-branding as a cosmopolitan scholar-doer. Its English translation has since then triggered much discussion about quality assessment. The current study critically surveys the existing literature on translation quality assessment (TQA), in an effort to identify an appropriate framework to assess the translation of Chinese university mottos. House’s model (2015) is found the most appropriate and applied to the official translation of the BFSU motto, after being adjusted in two important aspects. One, in regard to the rise of English as a language of global communication, it is proposed that more broad-based English norms than those of English as a native language be established for the purpose of adjudicating cultural filtering. Two, the use of corpus-based contrastive pragmatics is expanded to gauge the justifiability of overt as well as covert mismatches. While the errors identified by such a modified model are better intersubjectively verifiable, it remains to see how social research can be incorporated into the system to assess the degrees different errors may impact on the perceived quality of a translation.
The Effect of Mirror Neurons Stimulation on Syntax Development of Female Persian Autistic Children
Authors: Yarmand Hanieh , Ashayeri Hassan , Golfam Arsalan , Ameri Hayat
Published: November 2016

One common language disorder in autistic children is syntax disorder. The current research aims to examine the relationship between mirror neurons stimulation by intentional movements imitation and verbal imitation with syntax skill development in autistic children. This research was performed using an experimental applied design and convenience sampling method. First, the researcher designed a functional and easy model for autistic children rehabilitation based on intentional movement imitation and verbal imitation; Then, using TPR (Total Physical Response) method. A pilot study was conducted on a Persian-speaking autistic girl aged 7 in 12 sessions for four weeks in Iran University of Medical Sciences, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, and effective positive effects were observed. Then, 8 Persian-speaking autistic children were examined in terms of entrance criteria, and finally, 5 autistic girls aged 5-8 were selected and underwent training courses for 42 sessions over 14 weeks (3 20-30 minute sessions). In order to examine syntax skills of the subjects including grammatical understanding, sentence imitation and grammatical completion, before and after intervention, TOLD-P3 test was used. Each subject, as his/her Control was examined before and after intervention. Furthermore, two months after a 14-week stopping period, all the subjects were re-examined using TOLD-P3 test, and finally, results stability was examined. The research findings were analyzed using ANOVA test. The findings show that mirror neurons stimulation in autistic children through intentional movement imitation and verbal imitation has a positive effect on syntax skill improvement on these children thereby facilitating their verbal communication.
Students’ Perceptions of Teachers’ Power in High School, University, and English Language Institute
Authors: Assadi Aidinlou Nader , Jafari Amineh Roya
Published: November 2016

The primary focus of this study is to determine and compare Iranian students’ perceptions of their English teachers’ power in high schools, universities, and English language institutes. The research employed French & Raven’s (1959) framework of relational power bases (i.e., coercive, reward, expert, legitimate, and referent power) for understanding teachers’ power in this classroom. To this end, Teacher Power Use Scale (TPUS, Schrodt, Witt, & Turman, 2007) was translated to Persian and piloted among 150 students in all three educational contexts. After estimating reliability of Persian adaptation in the pilot study, 450 volunteer students responded to TPUS in the main study. For reliability studies, Cronbach Alpha and for validity studies, exploratory factor analysis were estimated.

Also, this study aimed to find out whether there are any other kinds of teachers’ power in educational contexts except what were represented by French & Raven’s (1959). For this purpose, the study used observation and interview.

The final results basically supported both French & Raven’s (1959) framework of relational power and also the original TPUS. Further, the findings suggested students’ perception of other kinds of teachers’ power beyond what was represented in the previous researches.