bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Remote Sensing Image Registration with Line Segments and Their Intersections
Authors: Lyu Chengjin , Jiang Jie
Published: May 2017

Image registration is a basic but essential step for remote sensing image processing, and finding stable features in multitemporal images is one of the most considerable challenges in the field. The main shape contours of artificial objects (e.g., roads, buildings, farmlands, and airports) can be generally described as a group of line segments, which are stable features, even in images with evident background changes (e.g., images taken before and after a disaster). In this study, a registration method that uses line segments and their intersections is proposed for multitemporal remote sensing images. First, line segments are extracted in image pyramids to unify the scales of the reference image and the test image. Then, a line descriptor based on the gradient distribution of local areas is constructed, and the segments are matched in image pyramids. Lastly, triplets of intersections of matching lines are selected to estimate affine transformation between two images. Additional corresponding intersections are provided based on the estimated transformation, and an iterative process is adopted to remove outliers. The performance of the proposed method is tested on a variety of optical remote sensing image pairs, including synthetic and real data. Compared with existing methods, our method can provide more accurate registration results, even in images with significant background changes.
A New Measurement Approach for Small Deformations of Soil Specimens Using Fiber Bragg Grating Sensors
Authors: Xu Dong-Sheng
Published: May 2017

A measurement approach for small deformations of soil specimens has been proposed in this study. The proposed approach consists of a small deformation transducer (SDT) based on fiber Bragg grating sensors which could provide an alternative tool to measure local small deformations of a soil specimen with high accuracy. The working principle, design procedures, calibrations and applications of the SDT are presented. An analytical solution is derived to obtain the relationship between the small deformation of the transducer and the wavelength shift of the FBG sensor, which was further evident in the laboratory calibration tests. The measurement range and resolution of the SDT can be adjusted by choosing different length and thickness of the material. The SDT can achieve a strain resolution of 4.45 micro-strains for a soil specimen with 80 mm in height. Measurement errors and stability were also examined and the results show that the maximum measurement error was around 0.01 mm. The designed SDT was further installed in a modified triaxial apparatus. Three shearing tests under different confining pressures were conducted. Results measured by the newly developed SDT are analyzed with comparisons to the results using external linear variable differential transformer (LVDT) transducers. The results provide evidence that this measurement approach is suitable for measuring the local deformations of soil specimens with high accuracy and stability.
A Probabilistic and Highly Efficient Topology Control Algorithm for Underwater Cooperating AUV Networks
Authors: Li Ning , Cürüklü Baran , Bastos Joaquim , Sucasas Victor , Fernandez Jose , Rodriguez Jonathan
Published: May 2017

The aim of the Smart and Networking Underwater Robots in Cooperation Meshes (SWARMs) project is to make autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), remote operated vehicles (ROVs) and unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) more accessible and useful. To achieve cooperation and communication between different AUVs, these must be able to exchange messages, so an efficient and reliable communication network is necessary for SWARMs. In order to provide an efficient and reliable communication network for mission execution, one of the important and necessary issues is the topology control of the network of AUVs that are cooperating underwater. However, due to the specific properties of an underwater AUV cooperation network, such as the high mobility of AUVs, large transmission delays, low bandwidth, etc., the traditional topology control algorithms primarily designed for terrestrial wireless sensor networks cannot be used directly in the underwater environment. Moreover, these algorithms, in which the nodes adjust their transmission power once the current transmission power does not equal an optimal one, are costly in an underwater cooperating AUV network. Considering these facts, in this paper, we propose a Probabilistic Topology Control (PTC) algorithm for an underwater cooperating AUV network. In PTC, when the transmission power of an AUV is not equal to the optimal transmission power, then whether the transmission power needs to be adjusted or not will be determined based on the AUV’s parameters. Each AUV determines their own transmission power adjustment probability based on the parameter deviations. The larger the deviation, the higher the transmission power adjustment probability is, and vice versa. For evaluating the performance of PTC, we combine the PTC algorithm with the Fuzzy logic Topology Control (FTC) algorithm and compare the performance of these two algorithms. The simulation results have demonstrated that the PTC is efficient at reducing the transmission power adjustment ratio while improving the network performance.
Supramolecular Recognition of Escherichia coli Bacteria by Fluorescent Oligo(Phenyleneethynylene)s with Mannopyranoside Termini Groups
Authors: Arias Enrique , Méndez Maria , Arias Eduardo , Moggio Ivana , Ledezma Antonio , Romero Jorge , Margheri Giancarlo , Giorgetti Emilia
Published: May 2017

Escherichia coli is one the most common bacteria responsible of uropathogenic diseases, which motives the search for rapid and easy methods of detection. By taking advantage of the specific interactions between mannose and type 1 fimbriae, in this work two fluorescent phenyleneethynylene (PE) trimers bearing one or two 4-aminophenyl-α-D-mannopyranoside termini groups were synthesized for the detection of E. coli. Three bacterial strains: ORN 178 (fimbriae I expression), ORN 208 (mutant serotype with no fimbriae expression) and one obtained from a local hospital (SS3) were used. Laser Scanning Confocal Microscopy (LSCM) and Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) were applied for the interaction studies following two different approaches: (1) mixing the oligomer solutions with the bacterial suspension, which permitted the observation of stained bacteria and by (2) biosensing as thin films, where bacteria adhered on the surface-functionalized substrate. LSCM allows one to easily visualize that two mannose groups are necessary to have a specific interaction with the fimbriae 1. The sensitivity of SPR assays to E. coli was 104 colony forming unit (CFU)/mL at 50 µL/min flow rate. The combination of PE units with two mannose groups results in a novel molecule that can be used as a specific fluorescent marker as well as a transducer for the detection of E. coli.
Drivers, Barriers and Benefits of the EU Ecolabel in European Companies’ Perception
Authors: Iraldo Fabio , Barberio Michele
Published: May 2017

To date, only a few studies have investigated the attitude of companies towards the EU Ecolabel. This article intends to provide an updated portrait of what are the main motivations that push companies to use the EU Ecolabel, the benefits that companies perceive as deriving from it and the barriers that companies perceive as hindering uptake. In order to answer to these research questions, we have used the data collected by the empirical survey on the EU Ecolabel that ran from April to July 2014. Evidence emerging from the survey shows that companies deem that the EU Ecolabel added-value lies in it being a useful “showcase” tool of their eco-innovation efforts, potentially able to close the information gap with the market (made of consumers above all, but also retailers and public procurers) about their products and services’ environmental performance. However, there is evidence throughout the study that, although the EU Ecolabel brings some market rewards, these are fewer than those expected by companies when they first decide to apply for the EU Ecolabel. This is linked to the lack of awareness of the EU Ecolabel by consumers and to the insufficient and inadequate promotion and support granted by public institutions.
Disentangling Time-series Spectra with Gaussian Processes: Applications to Radial Velocity Analysis
Authors: Czekala Ian , Mandel Kaisey S. , Andrews Sean M. , Dittmann Jason A. , Ghosh Sujit K. , Montet Benjamin T. , Newton Elisabeth R.
Published: May 2017

Measurements of radial velocity variations from the spectroscopic monitoring of stars and their companions are essential for a broad swath of astrophysics; these measurements provide access to the fundamental physical properties that dictate all phases of stellar evolution and facilitate the quantitative study of planetary systems. The conversion of those measurements into both constraints on the orbital architecture and individual component spectra can be a serious challenge, however, especially for extreme flux ratio systems and observations with relatively low sensitivity. Gaussian processes define sampling distributions of flexible, continuous functions that are well-motivated for modeling stellar spectra, enabling proficient searches for companion lines in time-series spectra. We introduce a new technique for spectral disentangling, where the posterior distributions of the orbital parameters and intrinsic, rest-frame stellar spectra are explored simultaneously without needing to invoke cross-correlation templates. To demonstrate its potential, this technique is deployed on red-optical time-series spectra of the mid-M-dwarf binary LP661-13. We report orbital parameters with improved precision compared to traditional radial velocity analysis and successfully reconstruct the primary and secondary spectra. We discuss potential applications for other stellar and exoplanet radial velocity techniques and extensions to time-variable spectra. The code used in this analysis is freely available as an open-source Python package.
Structural and Star-forming Relations since z ∼ 3: Connecting Compact Star-forming and Quiescent Galaxies
Authors: Barro Guillermo , Faber S. M. , Koo David C. , Dekel Avishai , Fang Jerome J. , Trump Jonathan R. , Pérez-González Pablo G. , Pacifici Camilla , Primack Joel R. , Somerville Rachel S. , Yan Haojing , Guo Yicheng , Liu Fengshan , Ceverino Daniel , Kocevski Dale D. , McGrath Elizabeth
Published: May 2017

We study the evolution of the scaling relations that compare the effective density (

) and core density (

kpc) to the stellar masses of star-forming galaxies (SFGs) and quiescent galaxies. These relations have been fully in place since

and have exhibited almost constant slope and scatter since that time. For SFGs, the zero points in

 and

decline by only

. This fact plus the narrowness of the relations suggests that galaxies could evolve roughly along the scaling relations. Quiescent galaxies follow different scaling relations that are offset to higher densities at the same mass and redshift. Furthermore, the zero point of their core density has declined by only

since

, while the zero point of the effective density declines by

. When galaxies quench, they move from the star-forming relations to the quiescent relations. This involves an increase in the core and effective densities, which suggests that SFGs could experience a phase of significant core growth relative to the average evolution along the structural relations. The distribution of massive galaxies relative to the SFR–M

and the quiescent

relations exhibits an L-shape that is independent of redshift. The knee of this relation consists of a subset of “compact” SFGs that are the most likely precursors of quiescent galaxies forming at later times. The compactness selection threshold in

 exhibits a small variation from z = 3 to 0.5,

M
⊙ kpc−2, allowing the most efficient identification of compact SFGs and quiescent galaxies at every redshift.
Persistence of Precursor Waves in Two-dimensional Relativistic Shocks
Authors: Iwamoto Masanori , Amano Takanobu , Hoshino Masahiro , Matsumoto Yosuke
Published: May 2017

We investigated the efficiency of coherent upstream large-amplitude electromagnetic wave emission via synchrotron maser instability in relativistic magnetized shocks using two-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations. We considered a purely perpendicular shock in an electron–positron plasma. The coherent wave emission efficiency was measured as a function of the magnetization parameter σ, which is defined as the ratio of the Poynting flux to the kinetic energy flux. The wave amplitude was systematically smaller than that observed in one-dimensional simulations. However, it continued to persist, even at a considerably low magnetization rate, where the Weibel instability dominated the shock transition. The emitted electromagnetic waves were sufficiently strong to disturb the upstream medium, and transverse filamentary density structures of substantial amplitude were produced. Based on this result, we discuss the possibility of the wakefield acceleration model to produce nonthermal electrons in a relativistic magnetized ion–electron shock.
Envelhecer activo, envelhecer saudável : o grande desafio
Authors: Fernandes Ana Alexandre , Botelho Maria Amália
Published: May 2017

O crescimento da esperança de vida nas idades mais avançadas representa um importante desafio para as políticas de saúde e de protecção social. A questão tem sido colocada ao nível do crescimento das necessidades em cuidados sociais e de saúde. O paradigma do envelhecimento activo, proposto pela OMS, tem vindo a proporcionar uma reflexão enriquecedora ao inverter os princípios em que assenta o debate : se vamos viver mais tempo então vamos investir ao longo da vida no sentido de minimizar os impactos negativos da maior longevidade.
Proceedings of the XXXIII National Meeting of the Italian Society for the Study of Connective Tissues (SISC)
Authors: Antonio Rossi President:
Published: May 2017

Not available.
The epidermis in Passerina/ (Thymelaeaceae): structure, function and taxonomic significance
Authors: Bredenkamp C. L. , Van Wyk A. E.
Published: May 2017

Epidermal features were studied in all 17 species of Passerina, a genus endemic to southern Africa. Leaves in Passerina are inversely ericoid, the adaxial surface concave and the abaxial surface convex. Leaves are inversely dorsiventral and epistomatic. The adaxial epidermis is villous, with unicellular, uniseriate trichomes and relatively small thin-walled cells, promoting flexibility of leaf margins owing to turgor changes. In common with many other Thymelaeaceae, abaxial epidermal cells are large and tanniniferous with mucilaginous cell walls. The cuticle is adaxially thin, but abaxially well devel­oped, probably enabling the leaf to restrict water loss and to tolerate high light intensity and UV-B radiation. Epicuticular waxes, present in all species, comprise both soft and plate waxes. Epidermal structure proves to be taxonomically impor­tant at family, genus and species levels. Interspecific differences include arrangement of stomata and presence or absence of abaxial epidermal hair. Other diagnostic characters of the abaxial epidermal cells are arrangement,size and shape, cutic- ular ornamentation and presence or absence of wax platelets. Two groups of species on the basis of abaxial epidermal cell orientation are recognised. Many leaf epidermal features in Passerina are interpreted as structural adaptations to the Mediterranean climate of the Cape.
Las revistas académicas de comunicación de acceso abierto en México. Retos y vicisitudes
Authors: López-Ornelas Maricela , Osuna Lever Cecilia , Díaz López Karla María
Published: May 2017

La investigación expone el caso de las revistas académicas de comunicación de acceso abierto en México, sus antecedentes, estado actual, retos y vicisitudes. Asimismo, considera el número de licenciaturas y posgrados de comunicación en el país, con la idea de reflexionar y relacionar la información con el total de revistas existentes. Metodología: De corte descriptivo, el trabajo se sustenta en la revisión de las publicaciones académicas de acceso abierto que abordan temas de comunicación. Identifica las características que les otorga el adjetivo “académicas”, examina su visibilidad a través de la indexación a las bases de datos, formatos de acceso, utilización del Open Journal Systems (ojs), inclusión del digital object identifier (doi), uso de programas antiplagio, adhesión al Committee on Publication Ethics (Cope), empleo de las licencias Creative Commons y registro de citas en Google Académico, diversidad en los formatos de acceso, entre otros. Resultados y discusión: Se especifica, en dos tablas, el estado actual de las publicaciones de comunicación de acceso abierto en México; se reconoce que las publicaciones existentes son insuficientes, que, paralelamente, coexisten con su versión impresa, y que la versión electrónica está rezagada por los avances tecnológicos y los procesos internacionales de normalización, lo que las deja fuera del interés de algunos connacionales para publicar en ellas. Se reconoce, también, la existencia de revistas avaladas por instituciones educativas, que no tienen precisamente el interés de ser indizadas a las bases de datos nacionales e internacionales, ya que su rol endogámico/institucional les permite, apropiadamente, ser una plataforma de aprendizaje para la formación de académicos que experimentan, por primera vez, el arte de publicar.
Caries-preventive Efficacy of Resin Infiltrant, Casein Phosphopeptide-amorphous Calcium Phosphate, and Nanohydroxyapatite using Confocal Scanning Electron Microscope: An in vitro Study
Authors: Arvindkumar A , Maheswari Uma , Kingston C , Gnanaseelan R , Jonathan Emil Sam R
Published: May 2017

Introduction

White spot lesion is the early sign of demineralization occurring under intact enamel which may lead to the development of caries.

Aim

The aim of this study is to compare and evaluate the caries-preventive efficacy of a resin infiltrant, casein phosphopeptideamorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP), and nanohydroxyapatite (nano-HA) on white spot enamel lesions.

Settings and designs

A total of 40 freshly extracted human maxillary incisors were used in this study. Enamel samples (2 mm thickness) were prepared and sample preparation windows were created (dimension of 5 × 5 mm) using adhesive tape, and the sample was made completely resistant to acid attack by coating nail varnish.

Materials and methods

The samples were divided into four groups, which are resin infiltrant, CPP-ACP, nano-HA, and control of 10 enamel samples in each group. The samples were evaluated using confocal laser scanning microscopy before and after the application of resin infiltrant and remineralizing agents.

Statistical analysis

Statistical analysis was done using analysis of variance andpost hocBonferroni test was used for comparing intragroups and Tukey test for comparing intergroups.

Results

The mean value after demineralization is 245, 246, 250, and 247 μm for Groups I to IV. After remineralization, group I > group II > group III > group IV. After acid challenge for a period of 14 days, group I > group II > group III > group IV.

Conclusion

The resin infiltrant showed higher caries inhibition potential and superior acid resistance than CPP-ACP and nano-HA.

Clinical significance

The inhibition of caries progression by resin infiltration technique should be considered as an alternative approach to the more invasive therapies and warrants a place in the range of minimally invasive dentistry techniques.

How to cite this article

Arvindkumar A, Maheswari U, Kingston C, Gnanaseelan R, Jonathan Emil Sam R. Caries-preventive Efficacy of Resin Infiltrant, Casein Phosphopeptide-amorphous Calcium Phosphate, and Nanohydroxyapatite using Confocal Scanning Electron Microscope: Anin vitroStudy. J Oper Dent Endod 2017;2(1):6-10.
Influence of Socioeconomic Status on Caries Prevalence in Chennai Population: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Rajasekaran Meenakshisundaram , Ashok Baskaran Veni , Shankarnarayan Gopal , Srinivasan Manali R ,   Rashmi
Published: May 2017

Aim

The aim of the present study is to evaluate the influence of socioeconomic status and social habits on the prevalence of dental caries in Chennai population. Cross sectional study was conducted in 500 patients by survey method using a questionnaire. Data was collected based on demographic details, information on the income, educational qualification, occupation, social habits (tobacco and alcohol consumption) and the caries exposure in terms of presence or absence of dental caries or a restoration. The data was tabulated using Microsoft Excel and statistically analysed using SPSS version 22. 91.8% of subjects in the lower socio economic status have a caries exposure while only 82% and 73.4% of the medium and higher economic status had caries. Within the limitations of the present study it can be concluded that there exists a connection between the individuals' socio economic condition and the oral health status that calls for implementation of oral health programs.

How to cite this article

Baskaran VA, Shankarnarayan G, Rajasekaran M, Rashmi, Poorni S, Srinivasan MR. Influence of Socioeconomic Status on Caries Prevalence in Chennai Population: A Cross-sectional Study. J Oper Dent Endod 2017;2(1):15-18.
IASI-derived NH3 enhancement ratios relative to CO for the
tropical biomass burning regions
Authors: Whitburn Simon , Van Damme Martin , Clarisse Lieven , Hurtmans Daniel , Clerbaux Cathy , Coheur Pierre-François
Published: May 2017

Abstract. Vegetation fires are a major source of ammonia (NH3) in the atmosphere. Their emissions are mainly estimated from bottom-up approaches which rely on uncertain emission factors. In this study, we derive new biome-specific NH3 enhancement ratios relative to carbon monoxide (CO), ERNH3/CO – directly related to the emission factors, from the measurements of the IASI sounder on board the Metop-A satellite. This is achieved for large tropical regions and for a 8-year period (2008–2015). We find substantial differences in the ERNH3/CO between the studied biomes with calculated values ranging from 4.4 × 10−3 to 17 × 10−3. For Evergreen Broadleaf Forest these are typically 75–100 % higher than for Woody Savanna and Savanna biomes. This variability is attributed to differences in fuel types and size and is in line with previous studies. The analysis of the spatial and temporal distribution of the ERNH3/CO also reveals a (sometimes large) within-biome variability. On a regional level, Woody Savanna shows for example a mean ERNH3/CO for the region of Africa South of the Equator which is 50–100 % lower than in the other five studied regions, probably reflecting regional differences in fuel type and burning conditions. The same variability is also observed on a yearly basis with a peak in the ERNH3/CO observed for the year 2010 for all biomes. These results highlight the need for the development of dynamic emission factors that better take into account local variations in fuel type and fire conditions. We also compare the IASI-derived ERNH3/CO with values reported in the literature, usually calculated from ground-based or airborne measurements. We find a general underestimation over the referenced ERNH3/CO of about 40 % for Woody Savanna and Savanna and up to a factor 1.5–4 for Evergreen Broadleaf Forest and Cropland. Beyond a possible overestimation of the ERNH3/CO in the literature, the observed differences could also be related to various factors including instrumental limits, bias in the retrieval of the NH3 columns, parameterization in the calculation of the ERNH3/CO or accumulation of CO in the studied regions during the fire period.
Ethene, propene, butene and isoprene emissions from a ponderosa
pine forest measured by Relaxed Eddy Accumulation
Authors: Rhew Robert C. , Deventer Malte Julian , Turnipseed Andrew A. , Warneke Carsten , Ortega John , Shen Steve , Martinez Luis , Koss Abigail , Lerner Brian M. , Gilman Jessica B. , Smith James N. , Guenther Alex B. , de Gouw Joost A.
Published: May 2017

Abstract. Alkenes are reactive hydrocarbons that influence local and regional atmospheric chemistry, playing important roles in the photochemical production of tropospheric ozone and in the formation of secondary organic aerosols. The simplest alkene, ethene (ethylene), is a major plant hormone and ripening agent for agricultural commodities. The group of light alkenes (C2-C4) originates from both biogenic and anthropogenic sources, but their biogenic sources are poorly characterized, with limited field-based flux observations. Here we report net ecosystem fluxes of light alkenes and isoprene from a semi-arid ponderosa pine forest in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, USA using the relaxed eddy accumulation (REA) technique during the summer of 2014. Ethene, propene and butene emissions have significant diurnal cycles, with maximum emissions at midday. The fluxes were correlated with each other and followed general ecosystem trends of CO2, water vapor, light and temperature. The light alkenes contribute significantly to the overall biogenic source of reactive hydrocarbons, roughly 15 % of the dominant biogenic VOC, 2-methyl-3-buten-2-ol. The measured ecosystem scale fluxes are nearly twice as large as estimates used in global emissions models for this type of ecosystem.
Low planktic foraminiferal diversity and abundance observed in a spring 2013 west–east Mediterranean Sea plankton tow transect
Authors: Mallo Miguel , Ziveri Patrizia , Mortyn P. Graham , Schiebel Ralf , Grelaud Michael
Published: May 2017

Abstract. Planktic foraminifera were collected with 150 µm BONGO nets from the upper 200 m water depth at 20 stations across the Mediterranean Sea between 2 May and 2 June 2013. The main aim is to characterize the species distribution and test the covariance between foraminiferal area density (ρA) and seawater carbonate chemistry in a biogeochemical gradient including ultraoligotrophic conditions. Average foraminifera abundances are 1.42 ± 1.43 ind. 10 m−3 (ranging from 0.11 to 5.20 ind. 10 m−3), including 12 morphospecies. Large differences in species assemblages and total abundances are observed between the different Mediterranean sub-basins, with an overall dominance of spinose, symbiont-bearing species indicating oligotrophic conditions. The highest values in absolute abundance are found in the Strait of Gibraltar and the Alboran Sea. The western basin is dominated by Globorotalia inflata and Globigerina bulloides at slightly lower standing stocks than in the eastern basin. In contrast, the planktic foraminiferal assemblage in the warmer, saltier, and more nutrient-limited eastern basin is dominated by Globigerinoides ruber (white). These new results, when combined with previous findings, suggest that temperature-induced surface water stratification and food availability are the main factors controlling foraminiferal distribution. In the oligotrophic and highly alkaline and supersaturated with respect to calcite and aragonite Mediterranean surface water, standing stocks and ρA of G. ruber (white) and G. bulloides are affected by both food availability and seawater carbonate chemistry. Rapid warming increased surface ocean stratification impacting food availability and changes in trophic conditions could be the causes of reduced foraminiferal abundance, diversity, and species-specific changes in planktic foraminiferal calcification.
A revised calibration of the interferometric mode of the CryoSat-2 radar altimeter improves ice height and height change measurements in western Greenland
Authors: Gray Laurence , Burgess David , Copland Luke , Dunse Thorben , Langley Kirsty , Moholdt Geir
Published: May 2017

Abstract. We compare geocoded heights derived from the interferometric mode (SARIn) of CryoSat to surface heights from calibration–validation sites on Devon Ice Cap and western Greenland. Comparisons are included for both the heights derived from the first return (the point-of-closest-approach or POCA) and heights derived from delayed waveform returns (swath processing). While swath-processed heights are normally less precise than edited POCA heights, e.g. standard deviations of  ∼  3 and  ∼  1.5 m respectively for the western Greenland site, the increased coverage possible with swath data complements the POCA data and provides useful information for both system calibration and improving digital elevation models (DEMs). We show that the pre-launch interferometric baseline coupled with an additional roll correction ( ∼  0.0075° ± 0.0025°), or equivalent phase correction ( ∼  0.0435 ± 0.0145 radians), provides an improved calibration of the interferometric SARIn mode. We extend the potential use of SARIn data by showing the influence of surface conditions, especially melt, on the return waveforms and that it is possible to detect and measure the height of summer supraglacial lakes in western Greenland. A supraglacial lake can provide a strong radar target in the waveform, stronger than the initial POCA return, if viewed at near-normal incidence. This provides an ideal situation for swath processing and we demonstrate a height precision of  ∼  0.5 m for two lake sites, one in the accumulation zone and one in the ablation zone, which were measured every year from 2010 or 2011 to 2016. Each year the lake in the ablation zone was viewed in June by ascending passes and then 5.5 days later by descending passes, which allows an approximate estimate of the filling rate. The results suggest that CryoSat waveform data and measurements of supraglacial lake height change could complement the use of optical satellite imagery and be helpful as proxy indicators for surface melt around Greenland.
Impact of impurities and cryoconite on the optical properties of the Morteratsch glacier (Swiss Alps)
Authors: Di Mauro Biagio , Baccolo Giovanni , Garzonio Roberto , Giardino Claudia , Massabò Dario , Piazzalunga Andrea , Rossini Micol , Colombo Roberto
Published: May 2017

Abstract. The amount of reflected energy by snow and ice plays a fundamental role in their melting processes. Different non-ice materials (carbonaceous particles, mineral dust, microorganisms, algae etc.) can decrease the reflectance of snow and ice promoting the melt. The object of this paper is to assess the capability of field and satellite (EO-1 Hyperion) hyperspectral data to characterize the impact of light-absorbing impurities on the surface reflectance of ice and snow of the Vadret da Morteratsch, a large valley glacier in the Swiss Alps. The spatial distribution of both narrow-band and broad-band indices derived from Hyperion was analyzed in relation to ice and snow impurities. In situ and laboratory reflectance spectra were acquired to characterize the optical properties of ice and cryoconite samples. The concentrations of Elemental Carbon (EC), Organic Carbon (OC) and Levoglucosan were also determined to characterize the impurities found in cryoconite. Multi-wavelength absorbance spectra were measured to compare the optical properties of cryoconite samples and local moraine sediments. In situ reflectance spectra showed that the presence of impurities reduced ice reflectance in visible wavelengths of 80–90 %. Satellite data also showed the outcropping of dust during the melting season in the upper parts of the glacier, revealing that seasonal input of atmospheric dust can decrease the reflectance also in the accumulation zone of the glacier. The presence of EC and OC in cryoconite samples suggests a relevant role of carbonaceous and organic material in the darkening of the ablation zone. This darkening effect is added to that caused by fine debris from lateral moraines, assumed to represent a large fraction of cryoconite. Possible input of anthropogenic activity cannot be excluded and further researches are needed to assess the role of human activities in the darkening process of glaciers observed in recent years.
Increased West Antarctic ice discharge and East Antarctic stability over the last
seven years
Authors: Gardner Alex S. , Moholdt Geir , Scambos Ted , Fahnstock Mark , Ligtenberg Stefan , van den Broeke Michiel , Nilsson Johan
Published: May 2017

Abstract. Ice discharge from large ice sheets plays a direct role in determining rates of sea level rise. We map present-day Antarctic-wide surface velocities using Landsat 7 & 8 imagery spanning 2013–2015 and compare to earlier estimates derived from synthetic aperture radar, revealing heterogeneous changes in ice flow since ~ 2008. The new mapping provides complete coastal and inland coverage of ice velocity with a mean error of
An intercomparison of mesoscale models at simple sites for wind energy applications
Authors: Olsen Bjarke T. , Hahmann Andrea N. , Sempreviva Anna Maria , Badger Jake , Jørgensen Hans E.
Published: May 2017

Abstract. Understanding uncertainties in wind resource assessment associated with the use of the output from numerical weather prediction (NWP) models is important for wind energy applications. A better understanding of the sources of error reduces risk and lowers costs. Here, an intercomparison of the output from 25 NWP models is presented for three sites in northern Europe characterized by simple terrain. The models are evaluated using a number of statistical properties relevant to wind energy and verified with observations. On average the models have small wind speed biases offshore and aloft (< 4 %) and larger biases closer to the surface over land (> 7 %). A similar pattern is detected for the inter-model spread. Strongly stable and strongly unstable atmospheric stability conditions are associated with larger wind speed errors. Strong indications are found that using a grid spacing larger than 3 km decreases the accuracy of the models, but we found no evidence that using a grid spacing smaller than 3 km is necessary for these simple sites. Applying the models to a simple wind energy offshore wind farm highlights the importance of capturing the correct distributions of wind speed and direction.
Specific and sensitive primers for the detection of predated olive fruit flies, Bactrocera oleae (Diptera: Tephritidae)
Authors: Lantero Esther , Matallanas Beatriz , Ochando Maria Dolores , Pascual Susana , Callejas Carmen
Published: May 2017

Bactrocera oleae, the olive fruit fly, is a major pest of olive (Olea europaea L.) trees worldwide. Its presence can cause important losses, with consequences for the economies of countries that produce and export table olives and olive oil. Efforts to control olive fruit fly populations have, however, been insufficient. Now more than ever, environmentally friendly alternatives need to be considered in potential control programs. Generalist predators could provide a way of managing this pest naturally. However, the identification of candidate predator species is essential if such a management system is to be introduced. The present paper describes a set of species-specific primers for detecting the presence of B. oleae DNA in the gut of predatory arthropods. All primers were tested for checking cross-reactive amplification of other fruit fly DNA and evaluated in heterospecific mixes of nucleic acids. All were found to be very sensitive for B. oleae. Subsequent feeding trials were conducted using one of the most abundant species of ground dwelling carabids in olive groves in south-eastern Madrid, Spain. These trials allowed determining that 253F-334R and 334F-253R primer pairs had the highest detection efficiency with an ID50 of around 78 h. These primers therefore provide a very useful tool for screening the gut contents of potential predators of B. oleae, and can thus reveal candidate species for the pest's biological control
The Effectiveness of the Elliott Waves Theory to Forecast Financial Markets: Evidence from the Currency Market
Authors: D’Angelo Eugenio , Grimaldi Giulio
Published: May 2017

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the capability of a technical analysis to be used as a valuable tool in forecasting financial markets. After discussing the primary theoretical and methodological differences that oppose the fundamental analysis and technical analysis and introducing the Elliott waves theory, the paper focuses on the results obtained after applying this method to the currency market. The results show that during the period from 2009-2015, the exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and euro could be forecasted with great accuracy. A potential future pattern is also proposed for the exchange rate beginning in March 2017. The research confirmed the usefulness of Elliott’s model for predicting currency markets, and the effectiveness of the fundamental analysis theories generally adopted for academic studies was evaluated.
Determination of Lutein and β-Carotene in Infant Formula and Adult Nutritionals by Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography: Single-Laboratory Validation, First Action 2016.13
Authors: Hostetler Gregory L
Published: May 2017

An ultra-HPLC method for the determination of lutein and β-carotene in infant formula and adult nutritionals wasvalidated using both unfortified and fortified samples provided by the AOAC Stakeholder Panel on Infant Formula and AdultNutritionals (SPIFAN). All experiments showed separation of all-trans-lutein and β-carotene from their major cis isomers, apocarotenal, α-carotene, lycopene, and zeaxanthin. Samples spiked with all-trans-lutein and β-carotene showed no isomerization during sample preparation. Linearity of the calibration solutions correlated to approximately 0.8–45 μg/100 g (reconstituted basis) for samples prepared for the lowest sample concentrations. With dilutions specified in the method, the range can be extended to approximately 2250 μg/100 g. The LOD for both lutein and β-carotene was 0.08 μg/100 g, and the LOQ for both was 0.27μg/100 g. For all measurements in the range of 1–100 μg/100 g, repeatability RSD was ≤5.8% forlutein and ≤5.1% for β-carotene. For measurements >100 μg/100 g, repeatability RSD was ≤1.1% for lutein and ≤1.7% for β-carotene. Accuracywas determined by recovery from spiked samples and ranged from 92.3 to 105.5% for lutein and from 100.1 to 107.5% for β-carotene. The data provided show that the method meets the criteria specified in the Standard Method Performance Requirements for carotenoids (SMPR 2014.014).
Multiresidue Method for Targeted Screening of Pesticide Residues in Spice Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) by Liquid Chromatography with Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Jadhav Manjusha , Thekkumpurath Ahammed Shabeer , Nakade Mayura , Gadgil Manasi , Oulkar Dasharath , Arimboor Ranjith , Ramakrishna Menon , Banerjee Kaushik
Published: May 2017

A QuEChERS technique–based sample preparation method was optimized and validated in small cardamom to monitor the residues of 154 pesticides by LC with tandem MS. The proposed multiresidue method involved soaking powdered cardamom (2 g) in water (8 mL) for 30 min, followed by extraction with acetonitrile (10 mL). Cleanup by dispersive SPE was performed using primary secondary amine (25 mg/mL), C18 (25 mg/mL), and anhydrous magnesium sulfate (150 mg/mL). The method was validated as per the SANTE/11945/2015 guidelines at 5, 10, 50, and 100 ng/g spiking levels, and most of the analytes showed recoveries between 70 and 120% (with RSDs ≤20%). The LOQ of ≤10 ng/g was achieved for almost 90% of the target pesticides. The measurement uncertainties were evaluated at 100 ng/g, and the global uncertainty values were below 22% for all the analytes.
Klimato kaitos aspektai lietuviškame internete: ką galima sužinoti iš bendros statistinės informacijos
Authors: Kažys Justas
Published: May 2017

Klimato kaita yra viena plačiausiai aptarinėjamų temų pasaulyje. Šio darbo tikslas – remiantis kiekybinės ir kokybinės informacijos analize įvertinti, kaip klimato kaitos aspektai atsispindi lietuviškuose interneto puslapiuose. Nuo 2015 m. vasario 4 d. iki 2016 m. rugsėjo 20 d. atliktame tyrime analizuoti interneto paieškos sistemų Google, Bing ir Yahoo užklausą „klimato kaita“ atitinkantys populiariausiųjų dešimtukų rezultatai. Taip pat dėmesys skirtas Aplinkos ministerijos, Aplinkos apsaugos agentūros, Lietuvos hidrometeorologijos tarnybos, Aplinkosaugos koalicijos ir Europos aplinkos agentūros puslapiuose esančios bendrosios ir naujienų pavidalu pateikiamos informacijos apie klimato kaitą analizei. Išsami statistinių rezultatų analizė atskleidė, kad dažniausiai lankomas ir matomas informacijos šaltinis yra lietuviškoje Vikipedijoje esantis straipsnis. Vykdant tyrimą nustatytos egzistuojančios spragos ir galimi sprendimo variantai siekiant pagerinti visuomenės informuotumą klimato kaitos srityje.
Review of Unpaywall [Chrome & Firefox browser extension]
Authors: Willi Hooper Michaela D
Published: May 2017

A new, free, open source browser extension, Unpaywall, indicates whether or not there is a free open access (OA) version of an article when users encounter a paywall. It may be particularly useful to researchers whose workflows don’t include Google Scholar, those who are concerned about copyright compliance, and those who are not privileged to have access to subscription resources. Researchers may use Unpaywall in combination with other tools. I encourage librarians to recommend Unpaywall to researchers, especially since its color-coded tabs educate users about the different types of OA.
Plants from the abandoned Nacozari mine tailings: evaluation of their phytostabilization potential
Authors: Santos Alina E. , Cruz-Ortega Rocio , Meza-Figueroa Diana , Romero Francisco M. , Sanchez-Escalante Jose Jesus , Maier Raina M. , Neilson Julia W. , Alcaraz Luis David , Molina Freaner Francisco E.
Published: May 2017

Phytostabilization is a remediation technology that uses plants for in-situ stabilization of contamination in soils and mine tailings. The objective of this study was to identify native plant species with potential for phytostabilization of the abandoned mine tailings in Nacozari, Sonora in northern Mexico. A flora of 42 species in 16 families of angiosperms was recorded on the tailings site and the abundance of the most common perennial species was estimated. Four of the five abundant perennial species showed evidence of regeneration: the ability to reproduce and establish new seedlings. A comparison of selected physicochemical properties of the tailings in vegetated patches with adjacent barren areas suggests that pH, electrical conductivity, texture, and concentration of potentially toxic elements do not limit plant distribution. For the most abundant species, the accumulation factor for most metals was <1, with the exception of Zn in two species. A short-term experiment on adaptation revealed limited evidence for the formation of local ecotypes inProsopis velutinaandAmaranthus watsonii. Overall, the results of this study indicate that five native plant species might have potential for phytostabilization of the Nacozari tailings and that seed could be collected locally to revegetate the site. More broadly, this study provides a methodology that can be used to identify native plants and evaluate their phytostabilization potential for similar mine tailings.
Multiple WW domains of Nedd4‐1 undergo conformational exchange that is quenched upon peptide binding
Authors: Panwalkar Vineet , Neudecker Philipp , Willbold Dieter , Dingley Andrew J.
Published: May 2017

The third WW domain (WW3*) of the ubiquitin ligase human neuronal precursor cell expressed developmentally downregulated gene 4‐1 (hNedd4‐1) was reported to bind its PY motif peptide by a coupled folding‐binding equilibrium. However, it is unknown whether these thermodynamic properties are retained in the context of neighboring hNedd4‐1 domains. In this report, NMR data show that the WW3* displays a fold‐unfold equilibrium in the presence of neighboring WW domains, and that similar fold‐unfold equilibria also likely exist for neighboring WW domains. These equilibria are quenched upon interaction with peptide. Thus, the binding mechanism of hNedd4‐1 WW domains to proteins involves coupled folding and binding equilibria, and this mechanism may be a general feature that modulates peptide affinities of WW domains.
Role of interannual Kelvin wave propagations in the equatorial Atlantic on the Angola Benguela Current system
Authors: Imbol Koungue Rodrigue Anicet , Illig Serena , Rouault Mathieu
Published: May 2017

The link between equatorial Atlantic Ocean variability and the coastal region of Angola‐Namibia is investigated at interannual time scales from 1998 to 2012. An index of equatorial Kelvin wave activity is defined based on Prediction and Research Moored Array in the Tropical Atlantic (PIRATA). Along the equator, results show a significant correlation between interannual PIRATA monthly dynamic height anomalies, altimetric monthly Sea Surface Height Anomalies (SSHA), and SSHA calculated with an Ocean Linear Model. This allows us to interpret PIRATA records in terms of equatorial Kelvin waves. Estimated phase speed of eastward propagations from PIRATA equatorial mooring remains in agreement with the linear theory, emphasizing the dominance of the second baroclinic mode. Systematic analysis of all strong interannual equatorial SSHA shows that they precede by 1–2 months extreme interannual Sea Surface Temperature Anomalies along the African coast, which confirms the hypothesis that major warm and cold events in the Angola‐Benguela current system are remotely forced by ocean atmosphere interactions in the equatorial Atlantic. Equatorial wave dynamics is at the origin of their developments. Wind anomalies in the Western Equatorial Atlantic force equatorial downwelling and upwelling Kelvin waves that propagate eastward along the equator and then poleward along the African coast triggering extreme warm and cold events, respectively. A proxy index based on linear ocean dynamics appears to be significantly more correlated with coastal variability than an index based on wind variability. Results show a seasonal phasing, with significantly higher correlations between our equatorial index and coastal SSTA in October–April season.
A submesoscale coherent vortex in the Ligurian Sea: From dynamical barriers to biological implications
Authors: Bosse Anthony , Testor Pierre , Mayot Nicolas , Prieur Louis , D'Ortenzio Fabrizio , Mortier Laurent , Le Goff Hervé , Gourcuff Claire , Coppola Laurent , Lavigne Héloïse , Raimbault Patrick
Published: May 2017

In June 2013, a glider equipped with oxygen and fluorescence sensors has been used to extensively sample an anticyclonic Submesoscale Coherent Vortex (SCV) in the Ligurian Sea (NW Mediterranean Sea). Those measurements are complemented by full‐depth CTD casts (T, S, and oxygen) and water samples documenting nutrients and phytoplankton pigments within the SCV and outside. The SCV has a very homogeneous core of oxygenated waters between 300 and 1200 m formed 4.5 months earlier during the winter deep convection event. It has a strong dynamical signature with peak velocities at 700 m depth of 13.9 cm s−1 in cyclogeostrophic balance. The eddy has a small radius of 6.2 km corresponding to high Rossby number of −0.45. The vorticity at the eddy center reaches
. Cross‐stream isopycnic diffusion of tracers between the eddy core and the surroundings is found to be very limited due to dynamical barriers set by the SCV associated with a diffusivity coefficient of about 0.2 m2 s−1. The deep core is nutrients‐depleted with concentrations of nitrate, phosphate, and silicate, 13–18% lower than the rich surrounding waters. However, the nutriclines are shifted of about 20–50 m toward the surface thus increasing the nutrients availability for phytoplankton. Chlorophyll‐a concentrations at the deep chlorophyll maximum are subsequently about twice bigger as compared to outside. Pigments further reveal the predominance of nanophytoplankton inside the eddy and an enhancement of the primary productivity. This study demonstrates the important impact of postconvective SCVs on nutrients distribution and phytoplankton community, as well as on the subsequent primary production and carbon sequestration.