bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Substituição do leite de cabra por soro de queijo bovino para cabritos alpinos
Authors: Costa Roberto Germano , Beltrão Filho Edvaldo Mesquita , Medeiros Geovergue Rodrigues de , Villarroel Arturo Bernardo Selaive , Cruz Sandra Elisabeth Santiago Beltrão Santa , Santos Edson Mauro
Published: May 2010

O trabalho foi conduzido para avaliar a substituição do leite de cabra por soro de queijo bovino no aleitamento de cabritos alpinos. Os animais foram distribuídos em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, em arranjo fatorial 4 × 2, composto de quatro níveis de substituição do leite de cabra por soro de queijo (0, 15, 30 e 45%) e dois sexos (três machos e quatro fêmeas por tratamento). A inclusão do soro de queijo na dieta não afetou o desenvolvimento ponderal dos cabritos dos 7 aos 42 dias de idade. Os cabritos alimentados com leite de cabra apresentaram maiores pesos finais, em torno de 13,0 kg; consumiram 70,0 litros/animal de leite de cabra, 172,0 g MS/animal/dia de concentrado e tiveram ganho médio de 137,5 g/dia. Nos cabritos alimentados com a dieta com 15, 30 e 45% de soro de queijo, os pesos finais foram de 11,1; 9,88 e 10,27 kg; o consumo de leite foi de 59,5; 49,0 e 38,4 litros/animal; e o de concentrado, 148,0; 117,0 e 135 g MS/animal/dia, com ganhos de 122,2; 99,5 e 100,8 g/dia, respectivamente. A conversão alimentar não diferiu entre as dietas. O efeito do sexo evidenciou-se a partir dos 21 dias de idade, mas não houve interação dieta × sexo. Ao final do estudo, aos 70 dias de idade, o peso dos machos (12,4 kg) foi maior que o das fêmeas (10,6 kg). A maior rentabilidade média (168,15%) foi obtida com o fornecimento dos níveis mais altos de soro de leite. O aleitamento de cabritos com até 45% de soro de queijo é tecnicamente viável e proporciona melhor retorno econômico. O uso de leite integral de cabra para criação de cabritos em rebanhos leiteiros é economicamente inviável.
Productive performance and composition of milk protein fraction in dairy cows supplemented with fat sources
Authors: Freitas Júnior José Esler de , Rennó Francisco Palma , Santos Marcos Veiga dos , Gandra Jefferson Rodrigues , Maturana Filho Milton , Venturelli Beatriz Conte
Published: May 2010

The objective of this study was to evaluate the use of fat sources in rations for lactating cows on the productive performance and composition of milk protein fraction. Twelve Holstein cows were used, grouped in three balanced 4 × 4 Latin squares, fed with the following rations: control; refined soybean oil; whole raw soybean; and calcium salts of unsaturated fatty acid (Megalac-E). Dry matter and nutrient intake, and daily milk production were evaluated. The samples used to analyze milk composition were collected in two alternate days and were obtained from two daily milking. Milk composition and total nitrogen, non-protein nitrogen and non-casein nitrogen ratios were analyzed. The casein, serum protein and true protein ratios were obtained by difference. Dry matter and nutrient intakes were lower when cows received the diet containing calcium salts of fatty acids, in relation to the control diet. Among the diets with fat sources, the one with whole raw soybean and calcium salts decreased milk production. There was no effect of fat sources added to the diet on crude protein, non-protein nitrogen, non-casein nitrogen, true protein, casein, casein/milk true protein ratio and serum protein. Similarly, the experimental diets did not influence the protein fractions when expressed in percentage of milk crude protein. The utilization of fat sources in diets changes milk production and composition of lactating cows, but does not influence the composition of milk protein fractions.
Fontes de energia em suplementos múltiplos para novilhos em pastejo durante o período das águas
Authors: Nascimento Michele Lopes do , Paulino Mário Fonseca , Detmann Edenio , Leão Maria Ignez , Valadares Filho Sebastião de Campos , Henriques Lara Toledo
Published: May 2010

Avaliou-se a influência do fornecimento de fontes de energia amiláceas e fibrosas em suplementos múltiplos sobre o desempenho e as características nutricionais de novilhos mestiços Holandês × Zebu em terminação em pastagem de Brachiaria decumbens Stapf. no período das águas. A área experimental consistiu de cinco piquetes de 2,0 ha, com disponibilidade média de MS de 5.853,0 kg/ha. Utilizaram-se 24 novilhos mestiços castrados, com aproximadamente 27 meses de idade e peso vivo inicial de 377,03 ± 7,28 kg. A cada animal, destinou-se casualmente um dos suplementos: mistura mineral à vontade, grão de sorgo ou grão de milho como fontes amiláceas de energia; e casca de soja ou farelo de trigo como fontes fibrosas. Às fontes de energia foram adicionados: mistura mineral, farelo de algodão e ureia para comporem suplementos com 33% de PB, com base na matéria seca, fornecidos na proporção de 1,0 kg/animal/dia. Nos animais sob suplementação com fontes energéticas, o ganho médio diário foi 33,4% maior. Os novilhos que consumiram suplemento com grão de sorgo foram os que apresentaram maior ganho de peso médio diário e maiores consumos nutrientes do pasto em comparação aos que consumiram grão de milho. A digestibilidade aparente total da fibra em detergente neutro corrigida para cinzas e proteína não foi afetada pela suplementação, independentemente da fonte de energia. O teor de nitrogênio ureico urinário foi menor nos animais sem suplementação. Suplementos múltiplos fornecidos em quantidade equivalente a 0,3% do peso vivo promovem ganho de peso superior ao obtido com mistura mineral em novilhos mestiços na fase de terminação durante o período das águas. Suplementos formulados com fontes fibrosas ou fontes amiláceas proporcionam desempenho produtivo semelhante.
Evaluation of a dynamic simulation model for milk production systems
Authors: Cunha Daniel de Noronha Figueiredo Vieira da , Pereira José Carlos , Campos Oriel Fajardo de , Braga José Luis , Silva Fabyano Fonseca e , Martuscello Janaina Azevedo
Published: May 2010

The objective of this study was to develop and to evaluate a dynamic simulation model, with stochastic components in order to assess milk production systems. The simulation model was developed by using STELLA 9.0, ZooCalc 1.0 and electronic data sheets. The physical structure of the herd was divided into 15 interlinked modules that represented categories or subdivisions of categories. Mathematical models obtained from the literature were used to simulate the body weight of growing and lactating animals and milk production and milk composition. Electronic data sheets were used to calculate the nutritional requirements and dietary balance. After cost minimization, each feed was evaluated by using ZooCalc 1.0. Some average responses of farm size, zootechnical and economic index, the change in the area used for com silage production, the calving interval and age at first insemination were obtained to evaluate whether the simulation model was working consistently with the expected. To assess the capacity of the model to gene rate simulated values that approach reality, the degree of linear association was measured between the values generated by the model and the values observed in practice. Sensitivity analyses showed that the values produced by the simulation model were in agreement with the expected results, in response to changes in the area of com crop used for com silage production, the calving interval and the age at first insemination. There was correlation between the values generated by the simulation model and the values observed in practice and the degree of linear association for the variables could be considered high.
The role of γ -aminobutyric acid (Gaba) in somatic embryogenesis of Acca sellowiana Berg. (Myrtaceae)
Authors: Booz Maristela Raitz , Kerbauy Gilberto B. , Guerra Miguel Pedro , Pescador Rosete
Published: May 2010

The γ-aminobutyric acid (Gaba) is a non-protein amino acid found in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Its role in plant development has not been fully established. This study reports a quantification of the levels of endogenous Gaba, as well as investigation of its role in different stages of somatic embryogenesis in Acca sellowiana Berg. (Myrtaceae). Zygotic embryos were used as explants and they were inoculated into the culture medium contained different concentrations of Gaba (0,2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 µM). The highest concentrations of endogenous Gaba were detected between the third and nine days after inoculation, reaching the value of 12.77 µmol.g-1FW. High frequency of somatic embryogenesis was observed in response to 10 µM Gaba. This treatment also resulted in a large number of normal embryos, and the lowest percentage of formation of fused somatic embryos, phenotypic characteristic of most deformed embryos in all treatments. Also, all treatments promoted the formation of the somatic embryos with positive characteristics of development resumption, which however did not originate the seedlings.
Determinantes clínicos com influência no prognóstico da discectomia lombar: análise multifatorial
Authors: Carvalho Paulo Jorge Da Rocha , Sá Paulo Jorge Correia De , Freitas Rolando Manuel Bezerra , Gonçalves João Pedro Maia , Macedo Sara Lemos Costa Lobo , Neves José De Morais
Published: May 2010

A seleção e o agendamento temporal inadequados dos pacientes permanecem as causas mais importantes de insucesso da cirurgia discal lombar. OBJETIVO: Este trabalho pretende avaliar os resultados clínicos e os factores preditivos que influenciam o prognóstico dos pacientes submetidos à discectomia lombar através de um modelo analítico multifatorial. MÉTODOS: Apresentamos uma série prospectiva de 68 pacientes com hérnias discais lombares que foram submetidos à discectomia entre 2003 e 2007. O seguimento médio foi de 3,9±0,1 anos. Os resultados clínicos foram avaliados utilizando o escore JOA (Japonese Orthopaedic Association Assessment Scoring System) (JOA=29). RESULTADOS: Resultados pós-operatórios bom e excelente foram obtidos em 75% dos casos. Pacientes do sexo masculino e a preponderância de sintomas subjectivos sobre sintomas clínicos estiveram associados com os melhores resultados clínicos e com o retorno mais precoce à actividade laboral. O tempo de espera pela cirurgia não teve influência no resultado final. A necessidade de cirurgia foi questionada na ausência de défices neurológicos significativos (JOA para resultados clínicos >3/6). Um valor JOA pré-operatório >15 (debilidade inicial baixa) está correlacionado com piores resultados clínicos pós-operatórios. CONCLUSÕES: O escore JOA é de fácil aplicação para clínicos e pacientes, uniformiza dados subjectivos e apresenta valor preditivo para os resultados dos pacientes submetidos à discectomia lombar.
Discectomia simples: ainda há espaço para a técnica?
Authors: Luyten Felipe de Albuquerque Araujo , Kusabara René , Bastos Júnior José Olympio Catão , Yamazato Clóvis , Oliveira Fábio Mastromauro de , Ribeiro Iberê
Published: May 2010

OBJETIVO: avaliar retrospectivamente os resultados a longo prazo do procedimento de discectomia convencional como tratamento de dor ciática causada por hérnia discal lombar. MÉTODOS: análise retrospectiva de 96 pacientes com hernia discal lombar, submetidos à discectomia convencional, com acompanhamento mínimo de dois anos. RESULTADOS: pacientes apresentavam ciática esquerda em 54% dos casos, com hérnia discal extrusa em 60% e 48% no nível L4-5; média de idade de 42 anos, 53% do sexo feminino, VAS médio de 9,6 no pré-operatório e 2,2 no pós-operatório. CONCLUSÃO: a discectomia convencional mostrou-se eficaz no tratamento da dor ciatica originada por hernia discal lombar, com baixo custo e restabelecimento precoce do paciente.
Mountain Pastoralism 1500-2000: An Introduction
Authors: Montero Raquel Gil , Mathieu Jon , Singh Chetan
Published: May 2010

This special issue of Nomadic Peoples presents a collection of articles that give an idea of the continuities and changes of pastoralism in upland areas during the past five centuries. They are the result of a lengthy project on 'Mountain Pastoralism and Modernity' organized by historians from different continents. The following introduction aims to trace the framework of that enterprise. It takes up a few key concepts: mountain pastoralism, history, verticality, intensification and mobility. It then describes the project, outlines the current state of research in the continents concerned, and points to some results and prospects.
Mountain Pastoralism and Spatial Mobility in the South-Peruvian Andes in the Age of State Formation (1880-1969 and Beyond)
Authors: Sendón Pablo F.
Published: May 2010

The process of inclusion of the colonial 'Republic of Indians' into the framework of the Peruvian state involved a series of changes in the Indian's judicial status. This article examines the legal metamorphosis experienced by a shepherd population in Southern Peru, Phinaya, on the basis of both historical and ethnographical information. The aim of the article is to examine the extent to which republican policies designed during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries recognized the existence of shepherd populations in the territory of the nation. It also explores to what extent, if any, the twentieth century policies designed to incorporate these populations within a national territory newly defined by its boundaries took account of their patterns of social organization in relation to one aspect of south Peruvian pastoralism: spatial mobility.
The Lost Mobility: Pastoralism and Modernity in Uttarakhand Himalaya (India)
Authors: Dangwal Dhirendra Datt
Published: May 2010

The Bhotiyas and the Gujars are two well-known communities which practised transhumance in Uttarakhand Himalaya. Restrictions first began to be imposed on their mobility under a new forestry regime, which was introduced in the late nineteenth century. The Bhotiyas, who were itinerant traders, had to face the challenge of new market forces when the hills became better integrated with the lowlands under the colonial economy. For both communities, the practice of transhumance became very difficult as the areas available to them for grazing shrank rapidly in independent India. They were compelled to change their livelihood strategies under the impact of modernization. The Bhotiyas were quick to adopt modern education and take up new jobs, while the Gujars were slower and now find it difficult to adjust to the new situation.
Transformations of High Mountain Pastoral Strategies in the Pamirian Knot
Authors: Kreutzmann Hermann
Published: May 2010

Mountain pastoralism in the Pamirian Knot has been significantly transformed from the nineteenth to the twentieth century. The development path has depended on spheres of influence of dominating powers and affiliation to mighty neighbours and, subsequently, to parties in the Cold War. Significant interventions that led to structural changes can be societal transformations, such as those that happened in the Emirate of Bokhara- Tsarist Russia-Soviet Union-Tajikistan sequence, as well as in the framework of establishing Afghan dominance in Badakhshan, in postrevolutionary interventions in Chinese Xinjiang or in the integration of Karakoram communities in the newly created nation-state of Pakistan.
The Transformation of the Alpine Economy in the Fourteenth to Eighteenth Centuries: Harvesting 'Wild Hay' in the High Mountains
Authors: Blatter Michael
Published: May 2010

By the end of the eighteenth century, in the northern valleys of the Central Alps, the economy was driven by raising cattle and providing dairy products for export. In the Middle Ages, however, subsistence economy based on grain, sheep and goat had become predominant. In this article, the transformation between the fourteenth and the eighteenth centuries is reevaluated by focusing on one aspect of mountain pastoralism: haymaking on remote mountain precipices even beyond the reach of livestock - the so called Wildheuen or harvesting wild hay. Its development coincided with the recovery of the economy of the cities in the plains of northern Italy in the 1660s, illustrating how strongly intertwined both the alpine husbandry and the Italian urban industries were on their path to modernity.
When the Mountain Serves the City: The Production of Cheese and Wool in Eighteenth-Century Bresciano (Italian Alps)
Authors: Mocarelli Luca
Published: May 2010

This article analyses the livestock holdings in the Alps, with a particular focus on the relationship between the city of Brescia and the neighbouring alpine valleys. Two economic activities are studied in more depth: cattle breeding for the production of cheese and sheep farming for the production of wool. In the first case, we observe that the cheese dealers of Brescia managed the production and marketed the final goods, since the cheese was largely exported. In the second case, the business was managed by local farmers who constituted a wealthy social class whose activities went beyond farming and include banking.
Genetik, Ökologie, Forstwirtschaft: Zusammenhänge und Perspektiven | Genetics, ecology, forest management: connections and perspectives
Authors: Finkeldey Reiner
Published: May 2010

Our understanding of the genetic variation of forest trees and its dynamics is rapidly increasing. The glacial eras, postglacial migration and human transfer of reproductive material had deep impacts on genetic variation patterns of European forest trees. The genetic basis of variation at adaptive traits and traits of economic importance is currently investigated by molecular genetic approaches eventually leading to a better understanding of the functional importance of intraspecific variation for forest ecosystems. Important applications of forest genetic research including breeding, conservation and adaptation to changing environments are briefly described based on current fields of research. The establishment and observation of field trials, complemented by a molecular investigation of variation patterns in genes coding for adaptive traits, continues to be a main field of research. The potential for the use of transgenic trees is regarded as low in central Europe. The origin of forest reproductive material is routinely tested based on genetic markers in Germany. Forest genetics contributes to the protection of natural resources by the development and implementation of methods to conserve forest genetic resources. In addition, molecular genetic tools are developed to test the origin of wood and wood products and to identify illegally traded wood; first encouraging results have been obtained. Evolutionary processes must not be neglected within the context of adaptation to global change. The development of strategies to mitigate climate change effects on forests in central Europe should consider the genetic variation of tree species by the promotion of adaptive potentials. The current knowledge does not allow to propose long-distance seed transfer from south to north as a universal approach to promote adaptation to climate warming in Europe.
Genetische Variation in Altbeständen der Lärche und ihrer natürlichen Verjüngung im Alpenraum | Genetic variation in adult stands of European larch and its natural regeneration in the Alpine habitat
Authors: Müller-Starck Gerhard , Felber François
Published: May 2010

Genetic inventories in 26 populations of European larch (Larix europaea DC.) in the mountaineous and sub-alpine range of the Alps reveal little genetic variation of this species as compared to other conifers in these vegetation zones. Based on 13 polymorphic gene loci, adult stands and their natural regenerations are compared. Juvenile populations show a slightly higher genetic richness but lower heterozygosities (Ha: 12.0% vs. 13.1%). The study of fixation coefficients does not support the hypothesis of substantial consequences of inbreeding in order to explain the observed very low heterozygosities. Statistically significant deviations between the allelic structures of adult stands and their corresponding natural regenerations are evident as a consequence of quantitative differences. Finally, the extent to which each of the studied population is representative for the gene pool of the remaining samples is quantified and the necessity of measures against genetic erosion in the light of climate change is discussed. Prospects offered by an increase of genetic variability via additional artificial regeneration should not be excluded.
The influence of vertical density and velocity distributions on snow avalanche runout
Authors: Keshari Ashok K. , Satapathy Deba P. , Kumar Amod
Published: May 2010

A one-dimensional avalanche dynamics model accounting for vertical density and velocity distributions is presented. Mass and momentum flux distribution factors are derived to incorporate the effect of density and velocity variations within the framework of depth-integrated models. Using experiments of avalanche flows on an inclined snow chute at Dhundhi, Manali, India, we conceptualize snow flow rheology as a Voellmy fluid where the distribution of internal shearing is given by a Newtonian fluid (NF) or Criminale–Ericksen–Filbey fluid (CEFF). Then the generalized mass and momentum distribution factors are computed for these two fluid models for different density stratifications. Numerical solutions are obtained using a total variation diminishing Lax–Friedrichs (TVDLF) finite-difference method. The model is validated with the experimental results. We find that the flow features of the chute experiments are simulated well by the model. The velocities and runout distances are obtained for the Voellmy model with both NF and CEFF extensions for various input volumes, and the optimum values of the model parameters, namely, coefficients of dynamic and turbulent friction, are determined.
Statistical downscaling of MM5 model output to better assess avalanche threats
Authors: Srinivasan K. , Kumar Ajay , Verma Jyoti , Ganju Ashwagosha
Published: May 2010

In this study, we use MM5 weather-forecast model output and observed surface weather data from 11 stations in the western Himalaya to develop a statistical downscaling model (SDM) to better predict precipitation, 10 m wind speed and 2 m temperature. The analysis covers three consecutive winters: 2004/05, 2005/06 and 2006/07. The performance of the SDM was assessed using an independent dataset from the 2007/08 winter season. This assessment shows that the SDM technique substantially improves the forecast over specific station locations, which is important for avalanche-threat assessment.
Potential flow models of suspension current air pressure
Authors: Turnbull Barbara , McElwaine Jim N.
Published: May 2010

We present, analyse and discuss air-pressure data from finite-volume chute flows of dry fine snow in air. These experiments have the correct similarity criteria to model powder-snow avalanches and demonstrate the transition from a dense to a suspended flow. We measured the dynamic air pressure at the base of the flow, which features a marked negative pressure peak immediately behind the front. This feature is also seen in observations of natural powder-snow avalanches measured in Russia, Japan and Switzerland in direct numerical simulations of non-Boussinesq suspension flows and in ping-pong ball avalanches. This is evidence for large internal motions and suggests that there is a coherent vortex in the avalanche front. This can result in impact pressures many times larger than those expected from the mean flow velocity. We analyse the external air pressures using three models and show how the geometry and velocity of the flow can be found from this single air-pressure measurement. We also measured flow heights and speeds using image analysis and show that the speed is roughly independent of the slope angle and scales with the release size raised to the power 1/4, as predicted by similarity analysis for pseudo two-dimensional (2-D) flows.
Return period calculation and passive structure design at the Taconnaz avalanche path, France
Authors: Naaim Mohamed , Faug Thierry , Naaim Florence , Eckert Nicolas
Published: May 2010

This paper aims to show how recent knowledge developed in the field of avalanche research can be used for a real case study, the Taconnaz avalanche path, where passive structures already existed but had to be improved. First a morphological analysis of the site is done and historical data are analysed. Second, each recorded event is back-calculated using a numerical model of dense-flow avalanches. For each surveyed avalanche, parameters at the entry of the runout zone upstream of the defence structures are defined. Third, a statistical analysis of these parameters allows characterization of 100 year return period events. Fourth, physical and numerical models of dense avalanches interacting with defence structures are combined in order to design the most effective passive structure able to contain the reference scenarios. Finally, physical and numerical modelling of the interaction between the powder avalanche and the designed defence structure is performed, to show that the proposed improvements do not increase the residual risk due to the powder part in areas downstream of the defence structures.
Review of topographic analysis methods for the western Himalaya using AWiFS and MODIS satellite imagery
Authors: Mishra V.D. , Sharma J.K. , Khanna R.
Published: May 2010

The topographic effects of differential terrain illumination in optical satellite imagery of rugged mountainous regions have serious consequences for qualitative and quantitative analysis for various snow applications. Therefore, effective removal or minimization of topographic effects is necessary in satellite image data of mountainous regions. Different methods for topographic corrections, including C-correction, Minnaert corrections (including slope) and slope-matching method, are analysed in the context of snow reflectance. Combination of dark-object subtraction models DOS1 and DOS3 is used for image-based atmospheric corrections while considering the effect of Rayleigh scattering on the transmissivity in different spectral bands of AWiFS and MODIS image data. The performance of different models is evaluated using (1) visual analysis, (2) change in snow reflectance on sunny and shady slopes after the corrections, (3) validation with in situ observations and (4) graphical analysis. The results show that the slope-matching technique could eliminate most of the shadowing effects in Himalayan rugged terrain and correctly estimate snow reflectance from AWiFS and MODIS imagery. The validation of results with in situ observations for both types of imagery suggests that all other methods significantly underestimate reflectance values after the corrections.
Spatial scales of snow texture as indicator for snow class
Authors: Satyawali P.K. , Schneebeli M.
Published: May 2010

A method for automated and fast classification of snow texture would be useful for applications where snow structure must be quantified. Large numbers of field measurements were carried out on natural snow in order to investigate small-scale variations of the micro-penetration force. Snow characterization was done for snow from the Himalaya and the Alps, using a high-resolution snow penetrometer (SnowMicroPen). Measurements of snow resistance at equal intervals of 4 μm were geostatistically evaluated. The range parameter (correlation length, or CL) of penetration force was estimated for all major snow classes from the sample semivariogram. Average CL was lowest for new snow and highest for melt–freeze snow. For major snow classes, CL was found to increase with snow density. Ground-perpendicular and ground-parallel snow profiles were also obtained for homogeneous snow, and CL was estimated along these directions. New snow showed larger CL in the ground-parallel direction, and depth-hoar snow showed larger CL in the ground-perpendicular direction. Based on CL, the directional anisotropy was calculated. An attempt was also made to show the relationship between CL and texture index. The semivariogram was used to estimate the fractal dimension. Both CL and fractal dimension were found to be potential parameters to describe snow.
Velocity measurements of wet snow avalanche on the Dhundi snow chute
Authors: Upadhyay Agraj , Kumar Amod , Chaudhary Arun
Published: May 2010

Wet snow avalanches in India are common during the mid- and late winter in the Pir Panjal Range (2000–3000ma.s.l.) and during the late winter in the Great Himalayan Range (3000 ma.s.l. and above). Although it is well known that the presence of liquid water in snow makes the flow behaviour of wet snow avalanches different from that of dry snow avalanches, there exist few actual flow measurements with wet snow. The aim of this investigation is to understand the dynamics of wet snow avalanches by conducting medium-scale experiments (volumes of 3, 6 and 11 m3) on the Dhundi snow chute in Himachal Pradesh, India. We measured flow velocities using video data, as well as optical velocity sensors installed on the side walls and running surface. Measurement results relating to the slip velocity of the front and tail of the moving snow mass, as well as the average slip velocity, are presented. In addition, we use the results of the vertical velocity profile measurements to calculate the effective viscosity of snow at two locations within the flow. We identified a shear thinning type of behaviour, suggesting that a single avalanche rheology cannot describe wet snow avalanche behaviour.
Using stability tests and regional avalanche danger to estimate the local avalanche danger
Authors: Bakermans Laura , Jamieson Bruce , Schweizer Jürg , Haegeli Pascal
Published: May 2010

Because public avalanche forecast regions in Canada are large, ranging from 100 to >30 000 km2, there are often areas within each region where the current local avalanche danger differs from the forecast regional danger. Identifying areas where the local danger is higher or lower than the regional rating is useful for recreational backcountry travellers; for those with limited experience, however, this is not always practical. During four winters in the Columbia, Coast and Rocky Mountains of western Canada, field teams performed stability tests and undertook local avalanche danger assessments for comparison against the regional danger ratings. Significant correlations between stability test variables and the local avalanche danger, and between stability test variables and the difference between local and regional danger, indicate potential for improved evaluation of the local danger if stability test results are considered with the regional bulletin rating. Although our analysis shows that a single stability test result cannot reliably be used to estimate the local avalanche danger, it does identify circumstances under which stability tests can help backcountry recreationists identify an area of locally higher avalanche danger.
Using RESOURCESAT-1 data for determination of snow cover and snowline altitude, Baspa Basin, India
Authors: Kaur Rakesh , Kulkarni Anil V. , Chaudhary B.S.
Published: May 2010

This paper presents a method for deriving the snowline altitude using a combined analysis of terrain elevation and multispectral Advanced Wide Field Sensor (AWiFS) data from the RESOURCESAT-1 satellite, launched by India on 17 October 2003. AWiFS is a unique instrument capable of acquiring imagery of the world repeatedly every 5 days with very high radiometric resolution. It provides a wide swath width, which is very useful for snow-cover mapping. Snowline altitude is a good indicator of snow coverage. Snowline altitude for the period from October 2004 to June 2005, and from October 2006 to June 2007, is determined for the Baspa Basin, which is located in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is observed that snowline altitude is generally higher during the year 2006/07 than during 2004/05, except in December 2006 and March 2007. The results obtained with the analysis presented here are validated using available meteorological data and are found to be satisfactory. This thus establishes a method that can be applied to other terrains and over longer periods of time within the coverage of the AWiFS sensor data.
Velocity profile inversion in dense avalanche flow
Authors: Kern Martin A. , Bartelt Perry A. , Sovilla Betty
Published: May 2010

We present a velocity time series of a dry-mixed real-scale avalanche that was recorded at different heights on a mast at the Swiss Vallée de la Sionne avalanche test site. The dataset is of extraordinary quality in terms of completeness and spatio-temporal resolution, and allows the evolution of distinct flow phases of the avalanche to be traced. In particular, we found velocity profile inversions at the transition from the avalanche front to the avalanche body. We provide a tentative empirical description of the profile inversions and briefly discuss our observations in the light of theoretical considerations.
Synthesis of Zwitterionic Water‐Soluble Oligofluorenes with Good Light‐Harvesting Ability
Authors: Xing Chengfen , Liu Libing , Shi Zhiqiang , Li Yuliang , Wang Shu
Published: May 2010

A new water‐soluble zwitterionic oligofluorene bearing carboxylic acid and quaternary ammonium as pendant groups (OF‐1) is synthesized and characterized. It forms aggregates by intermolecular electrostatic interactions and exhibits similar light‐harvesting ability as that of conjugated polymers. Efficient fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) occurs from OF‐1 to double‐stranded DNA tagged with fluorescein (dsDNA‐F1). A photoresponsive oligofluorene (OF‐3) is also synthesized by protecting OF‐1 with 1‐(2‐nitrophenyl)ethanol. Photolysis of OF‐3 can produce OF‐1 to result in a fluorescence “turn‐on” response, thus the FRET from OF‐3 to dsDNA‐Fl can be turned on by light irradiation. OF‐3 offers the potential for remote DNA sensing.
Oxidative Inorganic Multilayers for Polypyrrole Film Generation
Authors: Salomäki Mikko , Räsänen Markus , Leiro Jarkko , Huti Terhi , Tenho Mikko , Lukkari Jukka , Kankare Jouko
Published: May 2010

A controlled nanoscale fabrication of conducting polymer films sets severe requirements for the preparation method and substrate. A new and versatile approach for producing thin polypyrrole films on a variety of surfaces is presented. Purely inorganic thin films are first prepared from poly(metaphosphate) and tetravalent metal ions using a sequential layer‐by‐layer technique. Redox‐active cerium(IV) polyphosphate multilayer and redox‐inactive zirconium(IV) and hafnium(IV) polyphosphate multilayers are prepared. Cerium‐based polyphosphate films grow exponentially with the number of layers but multilayers containing zirconium or hafnium exhibit a linear buildup process. All the studied systems produce relatively smooth films with initial bilayer thickness less than 2 nm. The cerium(IV) containing film is redox‐active, which is shown by its capability to form a polypyrrole layer on its surface by oxidation of pyrrole monomers in the adjacent aqueous solution. This is a general method to produce thin oxidative films of arbitrary size and form on a wide variety of surfaces.
Planarization of Polymeric Field‐Effect Transistors: Improvement of Nanomorphology and Enhancement of Electrical Performance
Authors: Singh Kumar A. , Young Tomasz , McCullough Richard D. , Kowalewski Tomasz , Porter Lisa M.
Published: May 2010

The planarization of bottom‐contact organic field‐effect transistors (OFETs) resulting in dramatic improvement in the nanomorphology and an associated enhancement in charge injection and transport is reported. Planar OFETs based on regioregular poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (rr‐P3HT) are fabricated wherein the Au bottom‐contacts are recessed completely in the gate‐dielectric. Normal OFETs having a conventional bottom‐contact configuration with 50‐nm‐high contacts are used for comparison purpose. A modified solvent‐assisted drop‐casting process is utilized to form extremely thin rr‐P3HT films. This process is critical for direct visualization of the effect of planarization on the polymer morphology. Atomic force micrographs (AFM) show that in a normal OFET the step between the surface of the contacts and the gate dielectric disrupts the self‐assembly of the rr‐P3HT film, resulting in poor morphology at the contact edges. The planarization of contacts results in notable improvement of the nanomorphology of rr‐P3HT, resulting in lower resistance to charge injection. However, an improvement in field‐effect mobility is observed only at short channel lengths. AFM shows the presence of well‐ordered nanofibrils extending over short channel lengths. At longer channel lengths the presence of grain boundaries significantly minimizes the effect of improvement in contact geometry as the charge transport becomes channel‐limited.
Survival of farms in the Veneto region of Italy 1999–2004
Authors: Bassi Francesca , Chillemi Ottorino , Paggiaro Adriano
Published: May 2010

At a micro level, the authors model the survival of farms in the Veneto Region (Italy) for the period 1999–2004, by means of a new database that links information on survival histories in the Official Registers of the Chamber of Commerce with information on socioeconomic and structural characteristics of farms and farmers collected for the 2000 Census of Agriculture. First, the cohort of farms founded in 1999 is considered, and then the analysis is extended to all farms registered at the end of 1999. The model performs quite well in selecting farms with a high probability of survival. [EconLit citations: C41, Q12]. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A pattern matching method for large‐scale multipurpose process scheduling
Authors: He Yaohua , Hui Chi‐Wai
Published: May 2010

This article proposes a novel pattern matching method for the large‐scale multipurpose process scheduling with variable or constant processing times. For the commonly used mathematical programming models, large‐scale scheduling with long‐time horizons implies a large number of binary variables and time sequence constraints, which makes the models intractable. Hence, decomposition and cyclic scheduling are often applied to such scheduling. In this work, a long‐time horizon of scheduling is divided into two phases. Phase one is duplicated from a pattern schedule constructed according to the principle that crucial units work continuously, in parallel and/or with full load as possible, exclusive of time‐consuming optimization. Phase two involves a small‐size subproblem that can be optimized easily by a heuristic method. The computational effort of the proposed method does not increase with the problem size. The pattern schedule can be not only used for production/profit maximization but also for makespan estimation and minimization. © 2010 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2011
Nonlinear stochastic modeling to improve state estimation in process monitoring and control
Authors: Lima Fernando V. , Rawlings James B.
Published: May 2010

State estimation from plant measurements plays an important role in advanced monitoring and control technologies, especially for chemical processes with nonlinear dynamics and significant levels of process and sensor noise. Several types of state estimators have been shown to provide high‐quality estimates that are robust to significant process disturbances and model errors. These estimators require a dynamic model of the process, including the statistics of the stochastic disturbances affecting the states and measurements. The goal of this article is to introduce a design method for nonlinear state estimation including the following steps: (i) nonlinear process model selection, (ii) stochastic disturbance model selection, (iii) covariance identification from operating data, and (iv) estimator selection and implementation. Results on the implementation of this design method in nonlinear examples (CSTR and large dimensional polymerization process) show that the linear time‐varying autocovariance least‐squares technique accurately estimates the noise covariances for the examples analyzed, providing a good set of such covariances for the state estimators implemented. On the estimation implementation, a case study of a chemical reactor demonstrates the better capabilities of MHE when compared with the extended Kalman filter. © 2010 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2011
On the use of the Iodide Iodate Reaction Method for assessing mixing times in continuous flow mixers
Authors: Kölbl A. , Kraut M.
Published: May 2010

It is demonstrated experimentally by example of simple, commercially available T‐junctions and by ”unsymmetrical” V‐type micromixers that mixing times cannot be derived by applying the Iodide Iodate Reaction Method without considering the specific mixer geometry. Experimental results differ depending on the orientation of the feeds with respect to the inlets. An explanation for the observed effects is suggested. © 2010 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2011
Ocular adnexal lymphoma and Helicobacter pylori gastric infection
Authors: Decaudin Didier , Ferroni Agnès , Vincent‐Salomon Anne , Beldjord Kheira , Validire Pierre , de Cremoux Patricia , Validire Patricia , Plancher Corine , Mathiot Claire , Macintyre Elizabeth , Asselain Bernard , Girodet Jacques , Mal Frédéric , Brousse Nicole , Beretti Jean‐Luc , Dendale Rémi , Lumbroso‐Le Rouic Livia , Hermine Olivier , Lecuit Marc
Published: May 2010

There is a causal association between Helicobacter pylori (Hp) gastric infection and the development of gastric MALT lymphoma. In contrast, the link between Hp gastric infection and the development of extragastric lymphoma has not been thoroughly investigated. We, therefore, studied the prevalence of gastric Hp infection at initial diagnosis of ophthalmologic and nonophthalmologic extragastric lymphoma patients. Three cohorts of patients were studied: a first one of 83 patients with OAL, a second one of 101 patients with extraophthalmologic extragastric lymphoma, and a third one of 156 control individuals (control) without malignant lymphoma. Gastric Hp infection was investigated by histopathological analysis and Hp‐specific PCR assay on gastric biopsy tissue samples. We found gastric Hp infection in 37 OAL patients (45%), in 25 extraophthalmologic extragastric lymphoma cases (25%), and in 18 controls individuals (12%) (P < 0.0001 OAL/C and P < 0.01 OAL/extra‐OAL cases). Gastritis was found in 51% and 9% of Hp‐positive and Hp‐negative lymphoma patients, respectively (P < 10−4). Gastric Hp infection only correlated with MALT/LPL lymphoma (P = 0.03). There is a significant association between gastric Hp infection and MALT/LPL OAL. This suggests a novel mechanism of indirect infection‐associated lymphomagenesis whereby chronic local antigen stimulation would lead to the emergence of ectopic B‐cell lymphoma. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Am. J. Hematol.
Relation between C‐reactive protein levels and body composition in a multiethnic sample of school children in Hawaii
Authors: Brown Daniel E. , Mautz William J. , Warrington Miyako , Allen Lenard , Tefft Harold A.T. , Gotshalk Lincoln , Katzmarzyk Peter T.
Published: May 2010

Objectives:

Adipose cells secrete proinflammatory cytokines that stimulate hepatic production of C‐reactive protein (CRP). CRP levels are associated with adiposity levels in adults, adolescents, and older children but not in young children (age 2–3). This study examined the relation between CRP, adiposity, and cardiovascular and metabolic variables including blood pressure, glucose, and blood lipids in two young cohorts of children, averaging ∼5.5 and 8.5 years, respectively.

Methods:

Children (N = 125) from eight elementary schools in the multiethnic community of Hilo Hawaii were recruited to fill out questionnaires, undergo anthropometrics and air displacement plethysmography, have resting blood pressure measured, and provide a finger stick blood sample for analysis of CRP, glucose, and blood lipids.

Results:

There were no significant differences between the cohorts in ethnic make up, household income, or parents' educational attainment. No significant relation was found between CRP and either adiposity or cardiovascular/metabolic variables in the younger cohort. However, significant correlations were found between CRP and adiposity measures and blood pressure in the older cohort. There was no marked difference in association of CRP with BMI versus waist circumference or waist‐to‐hip ratio. In neither cohort was CRP significantly related to glucose or blood lipids.

Conclusions:

Both amount of fat mass and time duration for possessing the adipose tissue may be important factors in determining the relation between CRP and both adiposity and blood pressure. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 22:675–679, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sex influence on myocardial function with exercise in adolescents
Authors: Rowland Thomas , Unnithan Viswanath , Garrard Max , Roche Denise , Holloway Kathryn , Sandoval Julie , Marwood Simon
Published: May 2010

Objectives:

Ventricular systolic functional response to exercise has been reported to be superior in adult men compared to women. This study explored myocardial responses to maximal upright progressive exercise in late pubertal males and females.

Methods:

Doppler echocardiographic techniques were utilized to estimate myocardial function response to a bout of progressive cycle exercise.

Results:

Systolic functional capacity, as indicated by ejection rate (12.5 ± 2.8 and 13.1 ± 1.0 [×10−2] ml s−1 cm−2 for boys and girls, respectively) and peak aortic velocity (208 ± 45 and 196 ± 12 cm s−1, respectively) at maximal exercise, did not differ between the two groups. Similarly, peak values as well as increases in transmitral pressure gradient (mitral E flow velocity), ventricular relaxation (tissue Doppler imaging E′), and left ventricular filling pressure (E/E′ ratio) as estimates of diastolic function were similar in males and females.

Conclusions:

This study failed to reveal qualitative or quantitative differences between adolescent boys and girls in ventricular systolic or diastolic functional responses to maximal cycle exercise. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 22:680–682, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Influence of the mother's preceding pregnancies on fetal development and postnatal survival of the neonate, in normal pregnancy. An immunological phenomenon?
Authors: Vernier Michel C. , Mackenzie C.J.G. , Schulzer Michael , Vernier Pierre R.
Published: May 2010

Objectives:

The objective of this study is to test for an association between the sex of conceptuses of the mother's preceding pregnancies and fetal development and early neonatal survival in normal pregnancy.

Methods:

A population of 27,243 neonates, including a subsample of 7,773 “newborn/mother/placenta units” were divided into cohorts according to the sex of the neonate and the sex and number of conceptuses of the mother's preceding pregnancies. The average birth weight, placenta weight and early neonatal mortality rate were measured for each cohort and compared. The “dose effect” of preceding pregnancy was tested by linear and quadratic regression analysis, and by chi‐square trend test for linearity of proportions.

Results:

The results have shown an association between these three variables and the preceding pregnancies of the mother. Fetal development and early survival of the neonate are positively associated with the mother's preceding pregnancies of same sex as the neonate, and negatively associated with the preceding pregnancies of opposite sex to the neonate. The strength of the phenomenon increases with parity, at least for the first three parities. The association is statistically significant.

Conclusions:

The association between fetal development and neonatal survival and preceding pregnancies of the mother would be compatible with the action of male and female specific antigens capable of affecting selective implantation of blastocysts, which commands subsequent fetal development as well as early neonatal survival. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 22:708‐715, 2010. © 2010Wiley‐Liss, Inc.