bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First Experiences in Mapping Lake Water Quality Parameters with Sentinel-2 MSI Imagery
Authors: Toming Kaire , Kutser Tiit , Laas Alo , Sepp Margot , Paavel Birgot , Nõges Tiina
Published: August 2016

The importance of lakes and reservoirs leads to the high need for monitoring lake water quality both at local and global scales. The aim of the study was to test suitability of Sentinel-2 Multispectral Imager’s (MSI) data for mapping different lake water quality parameters. In situ data of chlorophyll a (Chl a), water color, colored dissolved organic matter (CDOM) and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) from nine small and two large lakes were compared with band ratio algorithms derived from Sentinel-2 Level-1C and atmospherically corrected (Sen2cor) Level-2A images. The height of the 705 nm peak was used for estimating Chl a. The suitability of the commonly used green to red band ratio was tested for estimating the CDOM, DOC and water color. Concurrent reflectance measurements were not available. Therefore, we were not able to validate the performance of Sen2cor atmospheric correction available in the Sentinel-2 Toolbox. The shape and magnitude of water reflectance were consistent with our field measurements from previous years. However, the atmospheric correction reduced the correlation between the band ratio algorithms and water quality parameters indicating the need in better atmospheric correction. We were able to show that there is good correlation between band ratio algorithms calculated from Sentinel-2 MSI data and lake water parameters like Chl a (R2 = 0.83), CDOM (R2 = 0.72) and DOC (R2 = 0.92) concentrations as well as water color (R2 = 0.52). The in situ dataset was limited in number, but covered a reasonably wide range of optical water properties. These preliminary results allow us to assume that Sentinel-2 will be a valuable tool for lake monitoring and research, especially taking into account that the data will be available routinely for many years, the imagery will be frequent, and free of charge.
A Non-Intrusive Pressure Sensor by Detecting Multiple Longitudinal Waves
Authors: Zhou Hongliang , Lin Weibin , Ge Xiaocheng , Zhou Jian
Published: August 2016

Pressure vessels are widely used in industrial fields, and some of them are safety-critical components in the system—for example, those which contain flammable or explosive material. Therefore, the pressure of these vessels becomes one of the critical measurements for operational management. In the paper, we introduce a new approach to the design of non-intrusive pressure sensors, based on ultrasonic waves. The model of this sensor is built based upon the travel-time change of the critically refracted longitudinal wave (LCR wave) and the reflected longitudinal waves with the pressure. To evaluate the model, experiments are carried out to compare the proposed model with other existing models. The results show that the proposed model can improve the accuracy compared to models based on a single wave.
Generation of Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance Using Hybrid Au–Ag Nanoparticle Arrays as a Sensor of Polychlorinated Biphenyls Detection
Authors: Liu Jing , Cai Haoyuan , Chen Chaoyang , Yang Guangsong , Yang Cheng-Fu
Published: August 2016

In this study, the hybrid Au–Ag hexagonal lattice of triangular and square lattice of quadrate periodic nanoparticle arrays (PNAs) were designed to investigate their extinction spectra of the localized surface plasmon resonances (LSPRs). First, their simulating extinction spectra were calculated by discrete dipole approximation (DDA) numerical method by changing the media refractive index. Simulation results showed that as the media refractive index was changed from 1.0 to 1.2, the maximum peak intensity of LSPRs spectra had no apparent change and the wavelength to reveal the maximum peak intensity of LSPRs spectra was shifted lower value. Polystyrene (PS) nanospheres with two differently arranged structures were used as the templates to deposit the hybrid Au–Ag hexagonal lattice of triangular and square lattice of quadrate periodic PNAs by evaporation method. The hybrid Au–Ag hexagonal lattice of triangular and square lattice of quadrate PNAs were grown on single crystal silicon (c-Si) substrates, and their measured extinction spectra were compared with the calculated results. Finally, the fabricated hexagonal lattices of triangular PNAs were investigated as a sensor of polychlorinated biphenyl solution (PCB-77) by observing the wavelength to reveal the maximum extinction efficiency (λmax). We show that the adhesion of β-cyclodextrins (SH-β-CD) on the hybrid Au–Ag hexagonal lattice of triangular PNAs could be used to increase the variation of λmax. We also demonstrate that the adhesion of SH-β-CD increases the sensitivity and detection effect of PCB-77 in hexagonal lattice of triangular PNAs.
Screening and Evaluation of Variables for Determination of Sulfonylurea Herbicides in Water Samples by Capillary Zone Electrophoresis
Authors: Springer Valeria , Di Anibal Carolina , Lista Adriana
Published: August 2016

A simple and rapid capillary electrophoretic method was developed for the simultaneous determination of two sulfonylurea herbicides in water samples: metsulfuron-methyl (MSM) and nicosulfuron (NS). These herbicides are widely used in agricultural practices and their residues represent potential environment pollutants in waters and soils. The effect of the pH of the background electrolyte solution (BGE), the percentage of methanol in the BGE and the separation voltage were studied on the resolution of MSM and NS. A 23 factorial design was used to identify the main factors which significantly influenced the separation of these compounds. Other parameters were evaluated by the univariate method. The experimental results show that using a BGE composed of 25 mmol·L−1 sodium borate and 3% (v/v) of methanol at pH 8.5 and applying 15 kV, satisfactory analysis time and resolution between peaks can be obtained. The linear range for both analytes was 0.1–2.0 µg·mL−1. The detection limits were 0.034 µg·mL−1 for MSM and 0.044 µg·mL−1 for NS. Surface water and groundwater samples were analyzed applying the new method, and the obtained results presented satisfactory recovery percentages (82%–102%).
Beneficial Effects of New Zealand Blackcurrant Extract on Maximal Sprint Speed during the Loughborough Intermittent Shuttle Test
Authors: Willems Mark , Cousins Luke , Williams David , Blacker Sam
Published: August 2016

New Zealand blackcurrant (NZBC) extract has been shown to enhance high-intensity intermittent treadmill running. We examined the effects of NZBC extract during the Loughborough Intermittent Shuttle Test (LIST) which involves 5 × 15 min blocks with intermittent 15-m maximal sprints, interspersed by moderate and high-intensity running to simulate team sport activity, and a subsequent run to exhaustion. Thirteen males (age: 22 ± 1 year, V ˙ O 2 max : 50 ± 5 mL·kg−1·min−1) participated in three indoor sessions (T: 24 ± 3 °C, humidity: 52% ± 9%). In the first session, a multistage fitness test was completed to determine peak running speed and estimate V ˙ O 2 max . Participants consumed NZBC extract in capsules (300 mg·day−1 CurraNZ™) or placebo (PL) (300 mg·day−1 microcrystalline cellulose M102) for seven days in a double-blind, randomized, cross-over design (wash-out at least seven days). NZBC extract did not affect average 15-m sprint times in each block. NZBC reduced slowing of the fastest sprint between block 1 and 5 (PL: 0.12 ± 0.07 s; NZBC: 0.06 ± 0.12 s; p < 0.05). NZBC extract had no effect on heart rate, vertical jump power, lactate and time to exhaustion (PL: 13.44 ± 8.09 min, NZBC: 15.78 ± 9.40 min, p > 0.05). However, eight participants had higher running times to exhaustion when consuming NZBC extract. New Zealand blackcurrant extract may enhance performance in team sports with repeated maximal sprints.
Greater Strength Drives Difference in Power between Sexes in the Conventional Deadlift Exercise
Authors: Jones Margaret , Jagim Andrew , Haff G. , Carr Patrick , Martin Joel , Oliver Jonathan
Published: August 2016

Limited research exists comparing sex differences in muscular power. The primary purpose of this research was to determine if differences exist in power and velocity in the conventional deadlift (CDL). A secondary purpose was to examine the relationship among power, velocity, strength, and fat free mass (FFM). Eighteen strength trained athletes with ≥1 year CDL experience (women: n = 9, 29 ± 2 years, 162.3 ± 1.8 cm, 62 ± 2.4 kg, 23.3 ± 3.2 % body fat (%BF); men: n = 9, 29 ± 3 years, 175.6 ± 1.8 cm, 85.5 ± 1.4 kg, 14.8 ± 2.4 %BF), and ≥1.5 one repetition maximum (1-RM) CDL: body mass (BM) ratio (women: 1.6 ± 0.1 1-RM CDL: BM; men: 2.3 ± 0.1 1-RM CDL: BM), performed baseline (body composition, 1-RM CDL) and experimental sessions, in which velocity and power were measured at 30%, 60%, and 90% 1-RM. Repeated measures ANOVA and bivariate correlations were conducted. Men produced higher absolute average and peak power across all loads, but higher average velocity at only 30% 1-RM. When normalized to FFM, men produced higher peak and average power; however, women produced higher peak and average velocities across all loads. FFM and 1-RM were correlated with power. Greater power observed in men is driven by larger muscle mass, which contributes to greater strength.
Cool Marble Building Envelopes: The Effect of Aging on Energy Performance and Aesthetics
Authors: Rosso Federica , Pisello Anna , Jin Weihua , Ghandehari Masoud , Cotana Franco , Ferrero Marco
Published: August 2016

Marble envelopes represent a relatively common architectural solution used in variety of historic, modern and contemporary building facades. White marble envelopes have been shown to reduce solar heat gains, while improving indoor thermal comfort and energy efficiency in summer time. While marble is useful in this context, the urban atmosphere accelerates the degradation of marble elements. This leads to changes in optical characteristics, hence the aesthetics, and affects the energy efficiency benefits offered by white marble facades. These issues are investigated in order to predict the impact of degradation on energy performance and to the aesthetic value, such as change of color and luminosity. In this study, surface degradation of white marble is analyzed by means of accelerated weathering in the laboratory while examining changes to the optical characteristics of the materials. A dynamic simulation is carried out to assess the energy performance of a building as a case study.
Experimental Research on Primary and Secondary Conversion Efficiencies in an Oscillating Water Column-Type Wave Energy Converter
Authors: Murakami Tengen , Imai Yasutaka , Nagata Shuichi , Takao Manabu , Setoguchi Toshiaki
Published: August 2016

For the practical application of a fixed oscillating water column (OWC)-type wave energy converter, it is necessary to develop a design method which can consider the characteristics of incident wave motion, the motion of the internal free surface affected in the structure such as a partly submerged wall, the fluctuation of air pressure in an air chamber, and the rotation of the air turbine. On the other hand, the impulse turbine as the secondary conversion device in the OWC unit is expected to achieve high efficiency. In this paper, firstly, the steady air flow tests for a single-impulse turbine were conducted to grasp the characteristics of the turbine without the effect of water waves. Secondly, the 2-dimensional wave tank tests in regular waves for the performance evaluation of the fixed OWC-type wave energy converter with the same impulse turbine were conducted to obtain the data needed to make this design method. As the results, the effects of the air chamber length and the guide vane’s setting angle on the primary and secondary conversion efficiencies are clarified experimentally.
The Influence of the Annual Number of Storms on the Derivation of the Flood Frequency Curve through Event-Based Simulation
Authors: Sordo-Ward Alvaro , Bianucci Paola , Garrote Luis , Granados Alfredo
Published: August 2016

This study addresses the question of how to select the minimum set of storms that should be simulated each year in order to estimate an accurate flood frequency curve for return periods ranging between 1 and 1000 years. The Manzanares basin (Spain) was used as a study case. A continuous 100,000-year hourly rainfall series was generated using the stochastic spatial–temporal model RanSimV3. Individual storms were extracted from the series by applying the exponential method. For each year, the extracted storms were transformed into hydrographs by applying an hourly time-step semi-distributed event-based rainfall–runoff model, and the maximum peak flow per year was determined to generate the reference flood frequency curve. Then, different flood frequency curves were obtained considering the N storms with maximum rainfall depth per year, with 1 ≤ N ≤ total number of storms. Main results show that: (a) the degree of alignment between the calculated flood frequency curves and the reference flood frequency curve depends on the return period considered, increasing the accuracy for higher return periods; (b) for the analyzed case studies, the flood frequency curve for medium and high return period (50 ≤ return period ≤ 1000 years) can be estimated with a difference lower than 3% (compared to the reference flood frequency curve) by considering the three storms with the maximum total rainfall depth each year; (c) when considering only the greatest storm of the year, for return periods higher than 10 years, the difference for the estimation of the flood frequency curve is lower than 10%; and (d) when considering the three greatest storms each year, for return periods higher than 100 years, the probability of achieving simultaneously a hydrograph with the annual maximum peak flow and the maximum volume is 94%.
A Survey of the Job Profiles of Biomedical Informatics Graduates
Authors: Ruiz Evandro , Baranauskas José , Macedo Alessandra
Published: August 2016

Background: In 2003, the University of São Paulo established the first Biomedical Infor -matics (BMI) undergraduate course in Brazil. Our mission is to provide undergraduate students with formal education on the fundamentals of BMI and its applied methods. This undergraduate course offers theoretical aspects, practical knowledge and scientifically oriented skills in the area of BMI, enabling students to contribute to research and methodical development in BMI. Course coordinators, professors and students frequently evaluate the BMI course and the curriculum to ensure that alumni receive quality higher education. Objectives: This study investigates (i) the main job activities undertake by USP BMI graduates, (ii) subjects that are fundamental important for graduates to pursue a career in BMI, and (iii) the course quality perceived by the alumni. Methods: Use of a structured questionnaire to conduct a survey involving all the BMI graduates who received their Bachelor degree before July, 2015 (attempted n = 205). Results: One hundred and forty-five gradu -ates (71 %) answered the questionnaire. Nine out of ten of our former students currently work as informaticians. Seventy-six gradu -ates (52 %) work within the biomedical informatics field. Fifty-five graduates (38 %) work outside the biomedical informatics field, but they work in other IT areas. Ten graduates (7 %) do not work with BMI or any other informatics activities, and four (3 %) are presently unemployed. Among the 145 surveyed BMI graduates, 46 (32 %) and seven (5 %) hold a Master‘s degree and a PhD degree, respectively. Database Systems, Software Engineering, Introduction to Computer Science, Object-Oriented Programming, and Data Structures are regarded as the most important subjects during the higher education course. The majority of the graduates (105 or 72 %) are satisfied with the BMI education and training they received during the undergraduate course. Conclusions: More than half of the gradu -ates from our BMI course work in their primary education area. Besides technical adequacy, the diverse job profiles, and the high level of satisfaction of our graduates indicate the importance of undergraduate courses specialized in the BMI domain are of utmost importance.
Synthesis of the C8’-epimeric thymine pyranosyl amino acid core of amipurimycin
Authors: Markad Pramod R , Kumbhar Navanath , Dhavale Dilip D
Published: August 2016

The C8’-epimeric pyranosyl amino acid core 2 of amipurimycin was synthesized from D-glucose derived alcohol 3 in 13 steps and 14% overall yield. Thus, the Sharpless asymmetric epoxidation of allyl alcohol 7 followed by trimethyl borate mediated regio-selective oxirane ring opening with azide, afforded azido diol 10. The acid-catalyzed 1,2-acetonide ring opening in 10 concomitantly led to the formation of the pyranose ring skeleton to give 2,7-dioxabicyclo[3.2.1]octane 12. Functional group manipulation in 12 gave 21 that on stereoselective β-glycosylation afforded the pyranosyl thymine nucleoside 2 – a core of amipurimycin.
A 78 DAY X-RAY PERIOD DETECTED FROM NGC 5907 ULX1 BY SWIFT
Authors: Walton D. J. , Fürst F. , Bachetti M. , Barret D. , Brightman M. , Fabian A. C. , Gehrels N. , Harrison F. A. , Heida M. , Middleton M. J. , Rana V. , Roberts T. P. , Stern D. , Tao L. , Webb N.
Published: August 2016

We report the detection of a 78.1 ± 0.5 day period in the X-ray light curve of the extreme ultraluminous X-ray source NGC 5907 ULX1 (

L

X,peak

∼
5
×

10

40

erg s−1), discovered during an extensive monitoring program with Swift. These periodic variations are strong, with the observed flux changing by a factor of ∼3–4 between the peaks and the troughs of the cycle; our simulations suggest that the observed periodicity is detected comfortably in excess of 3σ significance. We discuss possible origins for this X-ray period, but conclude that at the current time we cannot robustly distinguish between orbital and super-orbital variations.
Démographie, économie, culture
Authors: Le Bras Hervé
Published: August 2016

Les rapports de la démographie et de l'économie ont été complexes dès l'apparition de l'étude des populations. William Petty au xvii e  siècle et Thomas Malthus au xviii e  siècle, qui étaient économistes, posent les fondations de la démographie. Mais dans le courant du xix e  siècle, l'intérêt pour l'étude scientifique des populations glisse vers la biologie, à la suite du succès de la théorie de l'évolution. C'est dans ce cadre qu'apparaissent les théories eugéniques qui seront dominantes jusqu'à la Seconde Guerre mondiale. Cependant, dès les années 1920, un rapprochement s'opère entre la démographie et l'anthropologie culturelle qui prend une grande ampleur après 1945. Par une sorte de retour aux sources, depuis les années 1950, les préoccupations économiques connaissent un retour d'intérêt avec les travaux d'Alfred Sauvy et Jean Fourastié, et aux États-Unis de Gary Becker. Aujourd'hui, les études démographiques s'appuient surtout sur l'anthropologie culturelle et l'économie, comme on le montre avec trois études de cas pour terminer. Classification JEL : B10, B12, B13.
Le patrimoine des personnes migrantes
Authors: Boubtane Ekrame
Published: August 2016

Cet article examine les différences de taux de détention de patrimoine entre les ménages immigrés et les ménages autochtones à partir des données de l'enquête patrimoine 2009-2010 de l'Insee. Les caractéristiques sociodémographiques et économiques des ménages immigrés expliquent une part très importante des écarts observés. Lorsque l'effet de ces caractéristiques est pris en compte, il apparaît que les ménages immigrés ont une probabilité comparable à celle des natifs de détenir du patrimoine, sauf en ce qui concerne les livrets d'épargne. Les facteurs spécifiques de la population immigrée, tels que le pays d'origine, le statut légal et la durée de résidence ont un effet significatif sur le patrimoine et contribuent à expliquer les écarts observés. Classification JEL : D31, F22, J15, R21, R23.
L’inventivité en psychanalyse d’enfants. Effets de transmission dans la clinique
Authors: Bourdeu Marc Antoine
Published: August 2016

Dans la transmission de la psychanalyse avec les enfants, les consultations ouvertes, sur le modèle de celle de Françoise Dolto à Trousseau, procèdent de l’inventivité. L’auteur, formé à ce travail avec les enfants au travers de la consultation ouverte d’Enfance en jeu, souhaite également démontrer que la psychanalyse avec les enfants est indissociable de la psychanalyse avec les adultes. En psychanalyse avec les enfants, le dessin en particulier, et son écoute par l’analyste, joue par exemple un rôle similaire à celui des rêves et de leur interprétation dans la psychanalyse avec les adultes. A travers l’analyse d’un cas clinique, un petit garçon reçu pendant de nombreuses années, l’auteur illustre quelques particularités de l’analyse avec les enfants : la place des parents, les effets transférentiels entre l’enfant, les parents, l’analyste, l’inventivité produite...
Happiness or Addiction
Authors: Yu Sen-Chi
Published: August 2016

The psychological consequences of Facebook use remain controversy since most previous studies used vague and non-psychological-theory-driven indicators. To better understand the potential consequences of Facebook use, this study developed the Facebook Psychological Involvement Scale (FPIS). With 682 Taiwanese university students as subjects, this study analysed the reliability and validity of the scale using structural-equation-modeling (SEM). Results showed that FPIS had strong reliability and validity. Besides, the correlations between FPIS and internet addiction/positive-psychological states (PPS) were significantly stronger than those of usage time and number of Facebook friends, indicating that FPIS is a more effective predictor of the psychological consequences of Facebook usage.
Concerns for Individuals with Intellectual Disability in India
Authors: Behrani Priyanka , Deka Dorothy Bhandari
Published: August 2016

Intellectual disability (intellectual developmental disorder) is characterized by deficits in general mental abilities, such as reasoning, problem solving, planning, abstract thinking judgment, academic learning, and learning from experience (DSM V). This neuro developmental disorder is one of the conditions with onset in the developmental period. This condition has been classified into four categories on the basis of the individual's IQ (Intelligence quotient). The objective of the present paper is to highlight some of the areas that are related to the concerns for the people with intellectual disability. The paper focuses on the following topics: 1) Legal services, 2) Challenges faced by parents, 3) Health issues, 4) Sexual knowledge, 5) Marriage, 6) Quality of life, 7) Old age, 8) Attitude of society towards the individual with intellectual disability, 9) Implications, management and prevention for future improvement for individuals with intellectual disability.
The Impact of the Model Minority Culture in Higher Education Institutions
Authors: Tran Ben
Published: August 2016

Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) are one of the fastest growing ethnic communities in the United States. Often referred to as the model minority, first coined by William Peterson, in 1966, AAPIs in the U.S. number approximately 15 million and represent more than 100 languages and dialects. However, few studies have investigated psychological consequences of internalizing the model minority. The purpose of this chapter is delve into the other side of the model minority façade, the less glamorous side of model minority, one of the causes of Asian Americans' psychological and mental health issues: the history of model minority, the concept of stereotype, and the various psychological and mental health issues, the reputation of the concept of psychological issues, and mental health services. While there is sacred empirical evidence in the support of the claim that direct causality exists between model minority and psychological and mental health issues, validities and correlations can be established, through the shared classification of diagnosed symptoms.
An Empirical Study of the Factors that Influence In-Class Digital Distraction among University Students
Authors: Nath Ravi , Chen Leida , Muyingi H. N.
Published: August 2016

Classroom access to computers, smart phones, and the Internet may be indispensable for teaching and learning both for the student and instructor, yet these technologies can also be an impediment to learning as students tend to use them to engage in activities unrelated to the classwork. Using survey data collected from 187 US and 204 Namibian university students, this paper examines the factors that influence students' in-class digital distraction from a cross-cultural perspective. The findings suggest that Internet addiction, learning style preference, contextual and individual student factors significantly influence the intensity of student in-class digital distraction. The paper concludes with a discussion of the pedagogical and classroom management implications of the findings and provides recommendations for researchers as well as educators.
Responding to the challenge of Black Theology: Liberating Ministry to the White Community – 1988–1990
Authors: Van Wyngaard George J.
Published: August 2016

This article provides an initial overview of the Institute for Contextual Theology’s 1988–1990 project on A Liberating Ministry to the White Community, particularly exploring the main themes that emerged from national workshops during the 3 years. The project participants set out to think through the questions of a ministry to the white community in dialogue and in solidarity with Black Consciousness and Black Theology and the article seeks to explore the extent to which this initial focus was attended to in the main themes developed. Particular attention is given to how the project developed the notion of the white church as a ‘site of struggle’ and the accompanying social analysis and understanding of the role of prophetic theology.
Ritual failure in Romans 6
Authors: Smit Peter-Ben
Published: August 2016

Ritual studies are slow to make a large impact on New Testament studies, despite a number of notable exceptions. This notwithstanding, rituals occur frequently in the New Testament, in particular when there is a problem with a ritual. In this article, recent anthropological work on ‘ritual failure’ is used to address Paul’s discussion of Roman practices concerning baptism in relation to a person’s walk of life and to argue that this can be understood well as a case of ’ritual failure,’ in which a ritual fails, from Paul’s perspective, to achieve what it should. This leads both to challenging the attitude of the Romans concerning baptism and to a reconsideration of its significance.
Indigenous knowledge for disaster risk reduction: An African perspective
Authors: Iloka Nnamdi G.
Published: August 2016

Indigenous knowledge is valuable knowledge that has helped local communities all over the world survive for generations. This knowledge originates from the interaction between members of the community and the environment in which they live. Although much has been written about indigenous knowledge, its documentation in the area of disaster risk reduction and climate change in Africa has been very limited. The wealth of this knowledge has not been well-recognised in the disaster risk reduction field, as policy-makers still rely on mitigation strategies based on scientific knowledge. Colonialism and lack of proper documentation of indigenous knowledge are some of the contributing factors to this. Ignoring the importance of understanding adaptive strategies of the local people has led to failed projects. Understanding how local people in Africa have managed to survive and adapt for generations, before the arrival of Western education, may be the key to developing sustainable policies to mitigate future challenges. Literature used in this article, obtained from the books, papers and publications of various experts in the fields of disaster risk reduction, climate change, indigenous knowledge and adaptation, highlight the need for more interest to be shown in indigenous knowledge, especially in the developing country context. This would lead to better strategies which originate from the community level but would aim for overall sustainable development in Africa.
Applications of Mindfulness in Psychotherapy – Contemporary Dilemmas
Authors: ŠKODLAR Borut
Published: August 2016

Mindfulness has without doubt been the fastest spreading and most popular concept in psychotherapy in the last two decades. Its influence exceeds that of any other individual concept or approach in modern psychotherapy. However, there are many dilemmas, open questions and controversies related to this rapid, almost fanatic spread, which obviously compensates for a certain lack in modern Euro- and Americo-centric societies. Similarly, we are witnessing in the West a lack of reflection, a process of limitless idealization, and the search for a panacea. This all flows with a tint of colonialism, presumptuously taking over ideas, concepts and techniques without a proper study of the primary sources, and with all the accompanying negative side-effects: profiteering, self-promotion, unethical conduct, empty promises of instant rewards, and so on. In the present paper, the development of interest in mindfulness in psychotherapy, as well as the research findings and dilemmas, and concepts and mechanisms of applying mindfulness in psychotherapy, will be reviewed. The main purpose of the paper is to contribute to the critical reflection in studying and applying mindfulness in psychotherapy.
Production, concentration, and isolation of transparent exopolymeric particles using paramagnetic functionalized microspheres
Authors: Mari Xavier , Dam Hans G.
Published: August 2016

We describe a new method to isolate and concentrate transparent exopolymeric particles (TEP), either naturally occurring or produced by phytoplankton in cultures. The principles of this method are to use TEP‐sticking properties coupled with magnetic properties of paramagnetic microspheres to magnetically and selectively concentrate TEP. First, we studied the formation of mixed aggregates of TEP and 1‐µm microspheres using the bubbling method. TEP precursors were obtained from diatom cultures and from natural seawater. Mixed aggregates of TEP‐microspheres were efficiently formed—all TEP formed were associated with microspheres, and no clusters of microspheres alone were observed. The number of attached microspheres scaled with TEP size raised to an exponent of 1.53. The second step was to combine TEP with paramagnetic microspheres and isolate and concentrate the TEP by flowing out the solution containing mixed aggregates inside a strong magnetic field. About 90% of the magnetically labeled TEP were trapped inside the magnetic field. TEP volume concentration measured inside the magnetic field after isolation was about 5 times the initial TEP volume concentration. However, the predicted concentration factor, estimated from the relationship between number of attached microspheres versus TEP size, and the TEP size spectra in the initial solution was ~9. This suggests that TEP observed after isolation inside the magnetic field may be compacted and/or that a fraction of the TEP pool inside the magnetic field may remain glued to the inner walls of the culture flask and, thus, the observed TEP size spectra could be underestimated.
An improved method for the analysis of dissolved noble gases in the porewater of unconsolidated sediments
Authors: Tomonaga Yama , Brennwald Matthias S. , Kipfer Rolf
Published: August 2016

We developed a new and improved method for the extraction of dissolved noble gases from the porewater of unconsolidated lacustrine sediments. The new method relies on the separation of the porewater from the sediment matrix by centrifugation of the bulk sediment within the closed copper tubes being used as sampling containers. After centrifugation, the porewater liberated from sediment matrix is completely separated from the dewatered sediment by applying and closing a metal clamp between the two phases. After separation, the noblegas abundances are determined only in the porewater phase by applying the standard protocols used for noblegas analysis in water samples, which allows simpler, faster and more reliable measurements. The new method overcomes known experimental difficulties encountered by our former method, such as the release of He from sediment grains, and incomplete extrusion of the bulk sediment from the copper tube used as a sample container. It follows that the determination of the He concentrations and isotope ratios in the sediment porewater is less affected by He locally produced in sediment minerals. The new method is less operator‐sensitive and the noble‐gas extraction efficiency (especially for heavy noble‐gas species) has, in general, improved. As only bulk porewater is used for analysis, the new method can easily be adopted by other noble‐gas laboratories. Also, the new method can be used to determine the abundance of other dissolved gases such CH4, N2, or CO2.
An intercalibration between the GEOTRACES GO‐FLO and the MITESS/Vanes sampling systems for dissolved iron concentration analyses (and a closer look at adsorption effects)
Authors: Fitzsimmons Jessica N. , Boyle Edward A.
Published: August 2016

An intercalibration of dissolved iron (dFe) concentrations was conducted from samples collected on the GEOTRACES Pacific Intercalibration cruise using two different sampling devices: the GEOTRACES GO‐FLO rosette system and MITESS/Vane samplers. At each depth, the dFe concentrations were identical within analytical error, except at 500 m where contamination in one bottle is suspected. dFe adsorption kinetics to bottle walls was also investigated. Over 29 h, 18% of the dFe adsorbed to the walls of 1 L bottles, whereas over 15 h, 19% adsorbed to the walls of 250 mL bottles, suggesting a relationship between dFe adsorption and sample bottle surface area to volume ratio. Contrary to expectations that refrigeration would slow adsorption, cold 250 mL bottles demonstrated a 29% dFe loss over 15 h compared to 19% loss at room temperature. Finally, we tested the hypothesis that the decreasing dFe observed in successive sub‐sampled bottles from the (unacidified) SAFe D1 tank was due not only to adsorption but also to pH‐dependent Fe solubility changes resulting from carbon dioxide outgassing to the headspace of the 500L SAFe D1 tank. Filtered, low‐pH seawater collected at 1000 m in the North Pacific was placed into bottles with variable headspace for 15–17 h. The pH rose with increasing headspace, demonstrating that carbon dioxide outgassed, and dFe decreased in magnitude similar to the SAFe D1 sample. Fe size fractionation results did not conclusively reveal an Fe loss mechanism, but estimates of wall adsorption predicted from our adsorption experiments suggest that the decrease in dFe was more than can be expected by simple adsorption.
GLEAM v3: satellite-based land evaporation and root-zone soil moisture
Authors: Martens Brecht , Miralles Diego G. , Lievens Hans , van der Schalie Robin , de Jeu Richard A. M. , Férnandez-Prieto Diego , Beck Hylke E. , Dorigo Wouter A. , Verhoest Niko E. C.
Published: August 2016

Abstract. The Global Land Evaporation Amsterdam Model (GLEAM) is a set of algorithms dedicated to the estimation of terrestrial evaporation and root-zone soil moisture from satellite data. Ever since its development in 2011, the model has been regularly revised aiming at the optimal incorporation of new satellite-observed geophysical variables, and improving the representation of physical processes. In this study, the next version of this model (v3) is presented. Key changes relative to the previous version include: (1) a revised formulation of the evaporative stress, (2) an optimized drainage algorithm, and (3) a new soil moisture data assimilation system. GLEAM v3 is used to produce three new data sets of terrestrial evaporation and root-zone soil moisture, including a 35-year data set spanning the period 1980–2014 (v3.0a, based on satellite-observed soil moisture, vegetation optical depth and snow water equivalents, reanalysis air temperature and radiation, and a multi-source precipitation product), and two fully satellite-based data sets. The latter two share most of their forcing, except for the vegetation optical depth and soil moisture products, which are based on observations from different passive and active C- and L-band microwave sensors (European Space Agency Climate Change Initiative data sets) for the first data set (v3.0b, spanning the period 2003–2015) and observations from the Soil Moisture and Ocean Salinity satellite in the second data set (v3.0c, spanning the period 2011–2015). These three data sets are described in detail, compared against analogous data sets generated using the previous version of GLEAM (v2), and validated against measurements from 64 eddy-covariance towers and 2338 soil moisture sensors across a broad range of ecosystems. Results indicate that the quality of the v3 soil moisture is consistently better than the one from v2: average correlations against in situ surface soil moisture measurements increase from 0.61 to 0.64 in case of the v3.0a data set and the representation of soil moisture in the second layer improves as well, with correlations increasing from 0.47 to 0.53. Similar improvements are observed for the two fully satellite-based data sets. Despite regional differences, the quality of the evaporation fluxes remains overall similar as the one obtained using the previous version of GLEAM, with average correlations against eddy-covariance measurements between 0.78 and 0.80 for the three different data sets. These global data sets of terrestrial evaporation and root-zone soil moisture are now openly available at http://GLEAM.eu and may be used for large-scale hydrological applications, climate studies and research on land-atmosphere feedbacks.
Historical greenhouse gas concentrations
Authors: Meinshausen Malte , Vogel Elisabeth , Nauels Alexander , Lorbacher Katja , Meinshausen Nicolai , Etheridge David , Fraser Paul , Montzka Stephen A. , Rayner Peter , Trudinger Cathy , Krummel Paul , Beyerle Urs , Cannadell Josep G. , Daniel John S. , Enting Ian , Law Rachel M. , O'Doherty Simon , Prinn Ron G. , Reimann Stefan , Rubino Mauro , Velders Guus J. M. , Vollmer Martin K. , Weiss Ray
Published: August 2016

Abstract. Atmospheric greenhouse gas concentrations are at unprecedented, record-high levels compared to pre-industrial reconstructions over the last 800,000 years. Those elevated greenhouse gas concentrations warm the planet and together with net cooling effects by aerosols, they are the reason of observed climate change over the past 150 years. An accurate representation of those concentrations is hence important to understand and model recent and future climate change. So far, community efforts to create composite datasets with seasonal and latitudinal information have focused on marine boundary layer conditions and recent trends since 1980s. Here, we provide consolidated data sets of historical atmospheric (volume) mixing ratios of 43 greenhouse gases specifically for the purpose of climate model runs. The presented datasets are based on AGAGE and NOAA networks and a large set of literature studies. In contrast to previous intercomparisons, the new datasets are latitudinally resolved, and include seasonality over the period between year 0 to 2014. We assimilate data for CO2, methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O), 5 chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), 3 hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), 16 hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), 3 halons, methyl bromide (CH3Br), 3 perfluorocarbons (PFCs), sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), nitrogen triflouride (NF3) and sulfuryl fluoride (SO2F2). We estimate 1850 annual and global mean surface mixing ratios of CO2 at 284.3 ppmv, CH4 at 808.2 ppbv and N2O at 273.0 ppbv and quantify the seasonal and hemispheric gradients of surface mixing ratios. Compared to earlier intercomparisons, the stronger implied radiative forcing in the northern hemisphere winter (due to the latitudinal gradient and seasonality) may help to improve the skill of climate models to reproduce past climate and thereby reduce uncertainty in future projections.
Gauge-Adjusted Rainfall Estimates from Commercial Microwave Links
Authors: Fencl Martin , Dohnal Michal , Rieckermann Jörg , Bareš Vojtěch
Published: August 2016

Abstract. Increasing urbanization makes it more and more important to have accurate stormwater runoff predictions, especially with potentially severe weather and climatic changes on the horizon. Such stormwater predictions in turn require reliable rainfall information. Especially for urban centers, the problem is that the spatial and temporal resolution of rainfall observations should be substantially higher than commonly provided by weather services with their standard rainfall monitoring networks. Commercial microwave links (CMLs) are non-traditional sensors, which have been proposed about a decade ago as a promising solution. CMLs are line-of-sight radio connections widely used by operators of mobile telecommunication networks. They are typically very dense in urban areas and can provide path-integrated rainfall observations at sub-minute resolution. Unfortunately, quantitative precipitation estimates from CMLs (QPEs) are often highly biased due to several epistemic uncertainties, which significantly limit their usability. In this manuscript we therefore suggest a novel method to reduce this bias by adjusting QPEs to existing rain gauges. The method has been specifically designed to produce reliable results even with comparably distant rain gauges or cumulative observations. This eliminates the need to install reference gauges and makes it possible to work with existing information. First, the method is tested on data from a dedicated experiment, where a CML has been specifically set up for rainfall monitoring experiments, as well as many operational CMLs from an existing cellular network. Second, we assess the performance for several experimental layouts of "ground truth" from RGs with different spatial and temporal resolutions. The results suggest that CMLs adjusted by RGs with a temporal aggregation of up to one hour i) provide precise high-resolution QPEs (rel. error 0.75) and ii) that the combination of both sensor types clearly outperforms each individual monitoring system. Unfortunately, adjusting CML observations to RGs with longer aggregation intervals of up to 24 h has drawbacks. Although it also substantially reduce bias, it unfavourably smoothes out rainfall peaks of high intensities, which is undesirable for stormwater management. A similar, but less severe, effect occurs due to spatial averaging when CMLs are adjusted to remote RGs. Nevertheless, even here, adjusted CMLs perform better than RGs alone. Furthermore, we provide first evidence that the joint use of multiple CMLs together with RGs also reduces bias in their QPEs. In summary, we believe that our adjustment method has great potential to improve the space-time resolution of current urban rainfall monitoring networks. Nevertheless, future work should aim to better understand the reason for the observed systematic error in QPEs from CMLs.
Developing a method to determine teachers’ and pupils’ activities during a mathematics lesson
Authors: Ahtee Maija , Pehkonen Erkki , Laine Anu , Näveri Liisa , Hannula Markku S. , Tikkanen Pirjo
Published: August 2016

Third-graders from nineteen classrooms (N = 316) were asked to draw a picture on a mathematics lesson. Based on these drawings we have developed a data analysing method that allows us to find out how pupils present both their teacher's and their classmates' activities in their drawings. Two inventories were formed that contain, respectively, teachers' and pupils' activities during a mathematics lesson as seen in the pupils' drawings. The first inventory contains 14 separate items organized into six groups that contain teacher activities like asking questions and giving feedback on mathematics. Ten of the items are related to teaching and the rest contain items like keeping order in addition to the teacher's location in the classroom. Respectively, pupils' activities are organized into five groups that contain altogether 22 items. These contain the activities of a single pupil, and also pupil-teacher and pupil-pupil discussions on mathematics.
Report of Meeting Researches in Didactics of Mathematics and Computer Sciences
Authors: Herendiné Kónya E. , Korenová L. , Partová E.
Published: August 2016

The meeting Researches in Didactics of Mathematics and Computer Sciences was held in Bratislava, Slovakia from the 22th to the 24th of January, 2016 at Comenius University in Bratislava. It was organized by the Doctoral School of Mathematical and Computational Sciences of University of Debrecen and the Faculty of Education of Comenius University.
The 60 participants – including 47 lecturers and 15 PhD students – came from 5 countries, 23 cities and represented 32 institutions of higher and secondary education.
Ethics of Biological Sampling Research with Aboriginal Communities in Canada
Authors: Nowrouzi Behdin , McGregor Lorrilee , McDougall Alicia , Debassige Donna , Casole Jennifer , Nguyen Christine , Nowrouzi-Kia Behnam , McGregor Deborah
Published: August 2016

BACKGROUND: The objective of this paper is to identify key ethical issues associated with biological sampling in Aboriginal populations in Canada and to recommend approaches that can be taken to address these issues.

METHODS: Our work included the review of notable biological sampling cases and issues. We examined several significant cases (Nuu-chah-nult people of British Columbia, Hagahai peoples of Papua New Guinea and the Havasupai tribe of Arizona) on the inappropriate use of biological samples and secondary research in Aboriginal populations by researchers.

RESULTS: Considerations for biological sampling in Aboriginal communities with a focus on community-based participatory research involving Aboriginal communities and partners are discussed. Recommendations are provided on issues of researcher reflexivity, ethical considerations, establishing authentic research relationships, ownership of biological material and the use of community-based participatory research involving Aboriginal communities.

CONCLUSIONS: Despite specific guidelines for Aboriginal research, there remains a need for biological sampling protocols in Aboriginal communities. This will help protect Aboriginal communities from unethical use of their biological materials while advancing biomedical research that could improve health outcomes.
Performance Equivalence and Validation of the Soleris Automated System for Quantitative Microbial Content Testing Using Pure Suspension Cultures
Authors: Limberg Brian J , Johnstone Kevin , Filloon Thomas , Catrenich Carl
Published: August 2016

Using United States Pharmacopeia-National Formulary (USP-NF) general method <1223> guidance, the Soleris® automated system and reagents (Nonfermenting Total Viable Count for bacteria and Direct Yeast and Mold for yeast and mold) were validated, using a performance equivalence approach, as an alternative to plate counting for total microbial content analysis using five representative microbes: Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans, and Aspergillus brasiliensis. Detection times (DTs) in the alternative automated system were linearly correlated to CFU/sample (R2 = 0.94–0.97) with ≥70% accuracy per USP General Chapter <1223> guidance. The LOD and LOQ of the automated system were statistically similar to the traditional plate count method. This system was significantly more precise than plate counting (RSD 1.2–2.9% for DT, 7.8–40.6% for plate counts), was statistically comparable to plate counting with respect to variations in analyst, vial lots, and instruments, and was robust when variations in the operating detection thresholds (dTs; ±2 units) were used. The automated system produced accurate results, was more precise and less labor-intensive, and met or exceeded criteria for a valid alternative quantitative method, consistent with USP-NF general method <1223> guidance.