bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seasonal calcium carbonate undersaturation in shelf waters of the Western Arctic Ocean; how biological processes exacerbate the impact of ocean acidification
Authors: Bates N. R. , Orchowska M. I. , Garley R. , Mathis J. T.
Published: October 2012

Abstract. The Arctic Ocean accounts for only 4% of the global ocean area but it contributes significantly to the global carbon cycle. Recent observations of seawater carbonate chemistry in shelf waters of the Western Arctic from 2009 to 2011 indicate that extensive areas of the benthos are exposed to bottom waters that are seasonally undersaturated with respect to calcium carbonate (CaCO3) minerals, particularly aragonite. Our observations indicate seasonal reduction of saturation states (Ω) for calcite (Ωcalcite) and aragonite (Ωaragonite) in the subsurface in the Western Arctic by as much as 0.9 and 0.6, respectively. Such data indicates that bottom waters of the Western Arctic shelves are already potentially corrosive for biogenic and sedimentary CaCO3 for several months each year. Seasonal changes in Ω are imparted by a variety of factors such as phytoplankton photosynthesis, respiration/remineralization of organic matter and air-sea gas exchange of CO2 – combined these processes either increase or enhance Ω in surface and subsurface waters, respectively. These seasonal physical and biological processes also act to mitigate or enhance the impact of Anthropocene ocean acidification (OA) on Ω in surface and subsurface waters, respectively. Future monitoring of the Western Arctic shelves is warranted to assess the present and future impact on Ω values from ocean acidification and seasonal biological/physical processes on Arctic marine ecosystems.
Comparison of 20th century and pre-industrial climate over South America in regional model simulations
Authors: Wagner S. , Fast I. , Kaspar F.
Published: October 2012

Abstract. In this study, we assess how the anthropogenically induced increase in greenhouse gas concentrations affects the climate of central and southern South America. We utilise two regional climate simulations for present day (PD) and pre-industrial (PI) times. These simulations are compared to historical reconstructions in order to investigate the driving processes responsible for climatic changes between the different periods. The regional climate model is validated against observations for both re-analysis data and GCM-driven regional simulations for the second half of the 20th century. Model biases are also taken into account for the interpretation of the model results. The added value of the regional simulation over global-scale modelling relates to a better representation of hydrological processes that are particularly evident in the proximity of the Andes Mountains. Climatic differences between the simulated PD minus PI period agree qualitatively well with proxy-based temperature reconstructions, albeit the regional model overestimates the amplitude of the temperature increase. For precipitation the most important changes between the PD and PI simulation relate to a dipole pattern along the Andes Mountains with increased precipitation over the southern parts and reduced precipitation over the central parts. Here only a few regions show robust similarity with studies based on empirical evidence. However, from a dynamical point-of-view, atmospheric circulation changes related to an increase in high-latitude zonal wind speed simulated by the regional climate model are consistent with numerical modelling studies addressing changes in greenhouse gas concentrations. Our results indicate that besides the direct effect of greenhouse gas changes, large-scale changes in atmospheric circulation and sea surface temperatures also exert an influence on temperature and precipitation changes in southern South America. These combined changes in turn affect the relationship between climate and atmospheric circulation between PD and PI times and should be considered for the statistical reconstruction of climate indices calibrated within present-day climate data.
A vertically resolved, global, gap-free ozone database for assessing or constraining global climate model simulations
Authors: Bodeker G. E. , Hassler B. , Young P. J. , Portmann R. W.
Published: October 2012

Abstract. High vertical resolution ozone measurements from eight different satellite-based instruments have been merged with data from the global ozonesonde network to calculate monthly mean ozone values in 5° latitude zones. These "Tier 0" ozone number densities and ozone mixing ratios are provided on 70 altitude levels (1 to 70 km) and on 70 pressure levels spaced ~1 km apart (878.4 hPa to 0.046 hPa). The Tier 0 data are sparse and do not cover the entire globe or altitude range. To provide a gap-free database, a least squares regression model is fitted to the Tier 0 data and then evaluated globally. The regression model fit coefficients are expanded in Legendre polynomials to account for latitudinal structure, and in Fourier series to account for seasonality. Regression model fit coefficient patterns, which are two dimensional fields indexed by latitude and month of the year, from the N-th vertical level serve as an initial guess for the fit at the N+1th vertical level. The initial guess field for the first fit level (20 km/58.2 hPa) was derived by applying the regression model to total column ozone fields. Perturbations away from the initial guess are captured through the Legendre and Fourier expansions. By applying a single fit at each level, and using the approach of allowing the regression fits to change only slightly from one level to the next, the regression is less sensitive to measurement anomalies at individual stations or to individual satellite-based instruments. Particular attention is paid to ensuring that the low ozone abundances in the polar regions are captured. By summing different combinations of contributions from different regression model basis functions, four different "Tier 1" databases have been compiled for different intended uses. This database is suitable for assessing ozone fields from chemistry-climate model simulations or for providing the ozone boundary conditions for global climate model simulations that do not treat stratospheric chemistry interactively.
A bare ground evaporation revision in the ECMWF land-surface scheme: evaluation of its impact using ground soil moisture and satellite microwave data
Authors: Albergel C. , Balsamo G. , de Rosnay P. , Muñoz-Sabater J. , Boussetta S.
Published: October 2012

Abstract. In situ soil moisture data from 122 stations across the United States are used to evaluate the impact of a new bare ground evaporation formulation at ECMWF. In November 2010, the bare ground evaporation used in ECMWF's operational Integrated Forecasting System (IFS) was enhanced by adopting a lower stress threshold than for the vegetation, allowing a higher evaporation. It results in more realistic soil moisture values when compared to in situ data, particularly over dry areas. Use was made of the operational IFS and offline experiments for the evaluation. The latter are based on a fixed version of the IFS and make it possible to assess the impact of a single modification, while the operational analysis is based on a continuous effort to improve the analysis and modelling systems, resulting in frequent updates (a few times a year). Considering the field sites with a fraction of bare ground greater than 0.2, the root mean square difference (RMSD) of soil moisture is shown to decrease from 0.118 m3 m−3 to 0.087 m3 m−3 when using the new formulation in offline experiments, and from 0.110 m3 m−3 to 0.088 m3 m−3 in operations. It also improves correlations. Additionally, the impact of the new formulation on the terrestrial microwave emission at a global scale is investigated. Realistic and dynamically consistent fields of brightness temperature as a function of the land surface conditions are required for the assimilation of the SMOS data. Brightness temperature simulated from surface fields from two offline experiments with the Community Microwave Emission Modelling (CMEM) platform present monthly mean differences up to 7 K. Offline experiments with the new formulation present drier soil moisture, hence simulated brightness temperature with its surface fields are larger. They are also closer to SMOS remotely sensed brightness temperature.
Numerical modelling of climate change impacts on freshwater lenses on the North Sea Island of Borkum using hydrological and geophysical methods
Authors: Sulzbacher H. , Wiederhold H. , Siemon B. , Grinat M. , Igel J. , Burschil T. , Günther T. , Hinsby K.
Published: October 2012

Abstract. A numerical, density dependent groundwater model is set up for the North Sea Island of Borkum to estimate climate change impacts on coastal aquifers and especially the situation of barrier islands in the Wadden Sea. The database includes information from boreholes, a seismic survey, a helicopter-borne electromagnetic (HEM) survey, monitoring of the freshwater-saltwater boundary by vertical electrode chains in two boreholes, measurements of groundwater table, pumping and slug tests, as well as water samples. Based on a statistical analysis of borehole columns, seismic sections and HEM, a hydrogeological model is set up. The groundwater model is developed using the finite-element programme FEFLOW. The density dependent groundwater model is calibrated on the basis of hydraulic, hydrological and geophysical data, in particular spatial HEM and local monitoring data. Verification runs with the calibrated model show good agreement between measured and computed hydraulic heads. A good agreement is also obtained between measured and computed density or total dissolved solids data for both the entire freshwater lens on a large scale and in the area of the well fields on a small scale. For simulating future changes in this coastal groundwater system until the end of the current century, we use the climate scenario A2, specified by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and, in particular, the data for the German North Sea coast. Simulation runs show proceeding salinisation with time beneath the well fields of the two waterworks Waterdelle and Ostland. The modelling study shows that the spreading of well fields is an appropriate protection measure against excessive salinisation of the water supply until the end of the current century.
Global runoff anomalies over 1993–2009 estimated from coupled Land–Ocean–Atmosphere water budgets and its relation with climate variability
Authors: Munier S. , Palanisamy H. , Maisongrande P. , Cazenave A. , Wood E. F.
Published: October 2012

Abstract. Whether the global runoff (or freshwater discharge from land to the ocean) is currently increasing and the global water cycle is intensifying is still a controversial issue. Here we compute land–atmosphere and ocean–atmosphere water budgets and derive two independent estimates of the global runoff over the period 1993–2009. Water storage variations in the land, ocean and atmosphere reservoirs are estimated from different types of data sets: atmospheric reanalyses, land surface models, satellite altimetry and in situ ocean temperature data (the difference between altimetry based global mean sea level and ocean thermal expansion providing an estimate of the ocean mass component). These data sets are first validated using independent data, and then the global runoff is computed from the two methods. Results for the global runoff show a very good correlation between both estimates. More importantly, no significant trend is observed over the whole period. Besides, the global runoff appears to be clearly impacted by large-scale climate phenomena such as major ENSO events. To infer this, we compute the zonal runoff over four latitudinal bands and set up for each band a new index (combined runoff index) obtained by optimization of linear combinations of various climate indices. Results show that, in particular, the intertropical and northern mid-latitude runoffs are mainly driven by ENSO and the Atlantic multidecadal oscillation (AMO) with opposite behavior. Indeed, the zonal runoff in the intertropical zone decreases during major El Niño events, whereas it increases in the northern mid-latitudes, suggesting that water masses over land are shifted northward/southward during El Niño/La Niña. In addition to this study, we propose an innovative method to estimate the global ocean thermal expansion. The method is based on the assumption that the difference between both runoff estimates is mainly due to the thermal expansion term not accounted for in the estimation of the ocean mass. We find that our reconstructed thermal expansion time series compares well with two existing data sets in terms of year-to-year fluctuations but somewhat differs on longer (multi-year) time scales. Possible explanations include non negligible steric variations from the deep ocean.
An algorithm for generating soil moisture and snow depth maps from microwave spaceborne radiometers: HydroAlgo
Authors: Santi E. , Pettinato S. , Paloscia S. , Pampaloni P. , Macelloni G. , Brogioni M.
Published: October 2012

Abstract. A systematic and timely monitoring of land surface parameters that affect the hydrological cycle at local and global scales is of primary importance in obtaining a better understanding of geophysical processes and in managing environmental resources as well as natural disasters. Soil moisture and snow water equivalent are two quantities that play a major role in these applications. In this paper an algorithm for hydrological purposes (called hereinafter HydroAlgo), which is able to generate maps of snow depth (SD) and soil moisture content (SMC) from AMSR-E data, has been developed and implemented within the framework of the JAXA ADEOS-II/AMSR-E and GCOM/AMSR-2 programs, as well as of a project of the Italian Space Agency that is devoted to civil protection from floods and landslides. As auxiliary output, the algorithm also generates maps of vegetation biomass (VB). An initial phase of pre-processing includes the improvement of spatial resolution, as well as masking for urban areas, water bodies, and dense vegetation. The algorithm was then split into two branches, the first of which focused on the retrieval of SMC and the second, on SD. Both parameters were retrieved using Artificial Neural Network (ANN) methods. The algorithm was calibrated using a wide set of experimental data collected on three sites: Mongolia and Australia (for SMC), and Siberia (for SD), integrated with model simulations. These results were then validated by comparing the algorithm outputs with experimental data collected on two additional sites: a part of a watershed in Northern Italy, and a large portion of Scandinavia. An additional test of the algorithm was also performed on a large scale, and included sites characterized by differing climatic and meteorological conditions.
Balancing energy and environmental concerns: the case of the Kayraktepe dam, Turkey
Authors: Sever Ö. , Tiğrek Ş. , Şarlak N.
Published: October 2012

Abstract. In this study, an alternative solution for a large dam, namely the Kayraktepe Dam in Turkey, is investigated. The dam was planned for flood control, energy generation and flow regulation for a downstream irrigation project more than 30 yr ago, but until now the project has not begun due to it receiving severe criticism about environmental and social considerations. The project formulation was redeveloped several times in the past but the options were not found to be feasible. In this study, a detailed analysis of the available feasibility studies is provided and then a new formulation, consisting of the proposed one medium dam and five run-of-river type hydropower stations instead of a large scale dam, is evaluated. The new formulation is equivalent to the existing project in terms of energy production and flood control. On the other hand, there are some benefits relative to other configurations as solutions to some of the environmental and social problems being addressed.
The Mediterranean Ocean Colour Observing System – system development and product validation
Authors: Volpe G. , Colella S. , Forneris V. , Tronconi C. , Santoleri R.
Published: October 2012

Abstract. This paper presents the Mediterranean Ocean Colour Observing System in the framework of the growing demand of near real-time data emerging within the operational oceanography international context. The main issues related to the satellite operational oceanography are tied to the following: (1) the near real-time ability to track data flow uncertainty sources; (2) in case of failure, to provide backup solutions to end-users; and (3) to scientifically assess the product quality. We describe the major scientific and technological steps made to develop, maintain and improve the operational system and its products. A method for assessing the near real-time product quality is developed and its limitation discussed. Main results are concerned with the degradation, starting from mid-2010, of the MODIS Aqua channel at 443 nm with its successive recovery thanks to the new calibration scheme implemented in the recently released SeaDAS version 6.4. The product validation analysis highlights that SeaWiFS chlorophyll product over the Mediterranean Sea is the best performing in comparison with those of MODIS and MERIS. Despite their general good agreement with in situ observations, MODIS- and MERIS-derived chlorophyll present a slight and systematic underestimation of the in situ counter part. The most relevant implications induced by these results are discussed from an operational point of view.
Vapor flux and recrystallization during dry snow metamorphism under a steady temperature gradient as observed by time-lapse micro-tomography
Authors: Pinzer B. R. , Schneebeli M. , Kaempfer T. U.
Published: October 2012

Abstract. Dry snow metamorphism under an external temperature gradient is the most common type of recrystallization of snow on the ground. The changes in snow microstructure modify the physical properties of snow, and therefore an understanding of this process is essential for many disciplines, from modeling the effects of snow on climate to assessing avalanche risk. We directly imaged the microstructural changes in snow during temperature gradient metamorphism (TGM) under a constant gradient of 50 K m−1, using in situ time-lapse X-ray micro-tomography. This novel and non-destructive technique directly reveals the amount of ice that sublimates and is deposited during metamorphism, in addition to the exact locations of these phase changes. We calculated the average time that an ice volume stayed in place before it sublimated and found a characteristic residence time of 2–3 days. This means that most of the ice changes its phase from solid to vapor and back many times in a seasonal snowpack where similar temperature conditions can be found. Consistent with such a short timescale, we observed a mass turnover of up to 60% of the total ice mass per day. The concept of hand-to-hand transport for the water vapor flux describes the observed changes very well. However, we did not find evidence for a macroscopic vapor diffusion enhancement. The picture of {temperature gradient metamorphism} produced by directly observing the changing microstructure sheds light on the micro-physical processes and could help to improve models that predict the physical properties of snow.
Laparoscopic Nephrectomy Treatment of Renal Tumors over 7 cm: Our Experience
Authors: Montisci Erica , Corona Andrea , Serra Simona , De Lisa Antonello
Published: October 2012

Introduction

Radical nephrectomy by open surgery is the gold standard treatment for localized renal cancers. Several studies can demonstrate the efficacy and safety of laparoscopic radical nephrectomy for tumors in stage T1.

Materials and Methods

From June 2004 to June 2011 we studied 132 patients undergoing videolaparoscopic radical nephrectomy, and analyzed the following parameters: cancer site, cancer dimension, eventual lymphadenectomy and surrenectomy approach used (transperitoneal or retroperitoneal), surgery time, pre- and post-surgery (24h) hemoglobin and creatinine. Patients were then divided in 2 groups: Group A (78 patients): T1 cancer (dimension less than 7 cm); Group B (54 patients): T2–T3 cancer (dimension equal or larger than 7 cm) (T2 = 62%; T3 = 38%).

Results

There were no significant statistic differences between the 2 groups about number of patients, decrease of hemoglobin and increase of creatinine. On the other side, significant differences were found about surgery time: 127 min for Group A against 170 min for Group B.

Conclusions

Laparoscopic radical nephrectomy shows a lower morbidity compared to open surgery, although this is confirmed by a few studies; cancer controls seem equivalent between the T1 and T2 tumors. Radical nephrectomy by laparoscopy was and is still recommended for T1 and T2 cancers, but there is no enough evidence that it can be useful in the same way for T3 cases. Our study supports the thesis that laparoscopic radical nephrectomy is a safe and effective approach for tumors at and above 7 cm and not just those smaller, with an equal number of complications compared to an increase in the average surgery time.
Optimal Pricing and Coordination Schemes for the Eastern Route of the South‐to‐North Water Diversion Supply Chain System in China
Authors: Wang Huimin , Chen Zhisong , Ivan Su Shong‐Iee
Published: October 2012

The Eastern Route of the South‐to‐North Water Diversion (SNWD‐ER) project in China is a highly complex interbasin water‐diversion system, which is constructed to pump, store, and supply water to support the rational water redistribution in China. This article presents the optimization modeling approach for the pricing and coordinating schemes of SNWD‐ER project, and discusses the analysis results and their policy implications on the pricing and coordinating mechanisms in the SNWD‐ER water‐resource supply chain. For the government, formulating reasonable retail price upper bound is important to control the water resource wholesale price and retail price. Besides, various water‐saving mechanisms can increase the price elasticity of water demand and affect the wholesale and retail prices. For the corporations, increasing the water resource production capacity and its supply will decrease the wholesale and retail prices. Furthermore, keeping enough initial water resource inventory by enhancing the rainfall using rate, and using ‘free supply sources’‐rainfall, or even some flooding sources can effectively decrease the wholesale and retail prices. Finally, for the end‐users, enhancing the rainfall using rate can effectively decrease the wholesale and retail prices and reduce the energy consumption, which is good for the sustainable development and a low‐carbon economy.
Towards Modal Integration of Overhead and Underground Low-Voltage and Medium-Voltage Power Line Communication Channels in the Smart Grid Landscape: Model Expansion, Broadband Signal Transmission Characteristics, and Statistical Performance Metrics (Invited Paper)
Authors: Lazaropoulos Athanasios G.
Published: October 2012

The established statistical analysis, already used to treat overhead transmission power grid networks, is now implemented to examine the factors influencing modal transmission characteristics and modal statistical performance metrics of overhead and underground low-voltage/broadband over power lines (LV/BPL) and medium-voltage/broadband over power lines (MV/BPL) channels associated with power distribution in smart grid (SG) networks. The novelty of this paper is threefold. First, a refined multidimensional chain scattering matrix (TM2) method suitable for overhead and underground LV/BPL and MV/BPL modal channels is evaluated against other relative theoretical and experimental proven models. Second, applying TM2 method, the end-to-end modal channel attenuation of various LV/BPL and MV/BPL multiconductor transmission line (MTL) configurations is determined. The LV/BPL and MV/BPL transmission channels are investigated with regard to their spectral behavior and their end-to-end modal channel attenuation. It is found that the above features depend drastically on the frequency, the type of power grid, the mode considered, the MTL configuration, the physical properties of the cables used, the end-to-end distance, and the number, the electrical length, and the terminations of the branches encountered along the end-to-end BPL signal propagation. Third, the statistical properties of various overhead and underground LV/BPL and MV/BPL modal channels are investigated revealing the correlation between end-to-end modal channel attenuation and modal root-mean-square delay spread (RMS-DS). Already verified in the case of overhead high-voltage (HV) BPL systems, this fundamental property of several wireline systems is also modally validated against relevant sets of field measurements, numerical results, and recently proposed statistical channel models for various overhead and underground LV/BPL and MV/BPL channels. Based on this common inherent attribute of either transmission or distribution BPL networks, new unified regression trend line is proposed giving a further boost towards BPL system intraoperability. A consequence of this paper is that it aids in gaining a better understanding of the range and coverage that BPL solutions can achieve; a preliminary step toward the system symbiosis between BPL systems and other broadband technologies in an SG environment.
A QSPR Study for the Prediction of the pKa of N-Base Ligands and Formation Constant Kc of Bis(2,2′-bipyridine)Platinum(II)-N-Base Adducts Using Quantum Mechanically Derived Descriptors
Authors: Palaz Selami , Türkkan Baki , Eroğlu Erol
Published: October 2012

Quantitative structure-property relationship (QSPR) study on the acid dissociation constant, pKa of various 22 N-base ligands including pyridines, pyrimidines, purines, and quinolines has been carried out using Codessa Pro methodology and software. In addition, the formation constant, Kc of these ligands with Pt(II)(bpy)2 2+ (bpy = 2,2′-bipyridine) ion has also been modelled with the same methodology. Linear regression QSPR models of pKa and Kc were established with descriptors derived from AM1 calculations. Among the obtained QSPR models of pKa presented in the study, statistically the most significant one is a four parameters linear equation with the squared correlation coefficient, R2 values of ca. 0.95 and the squared cross-validated correlation coefficient, Rcv2 values of ca. 0.89, and external the squared correlation coefficient, Rext.2 values of ca. 0.97. Statistically the most significant QSPR model of Kc is also a four parameters linear equation with the squared correlation coefficient, R2 values of ca. 0.75 and the squared cross-validated correlation coefficient, Rcv2 values of ca. 0.55, and external the squared correlation coefficient, Rext.2 values of ca. 0.81. An analysis of descriptors that involved in the pKa models indicate that reactivity index and charge distribution related descriptors play major roles to model acid dissociation constant of ligands of N bases.
A Counseling Program for Clients in Substitution Treatment: Effects and Dropout Prediction
Authors: Boywitt C. Dennis , Zwingmann Christian
Published: October 2012

The present research reports the evaluation of a counseling program for substance abusers in outpatient substitution treatment. Clients were assessed at two time points to evaluate their development on various variables such as psychosocial functioning and substance abuse. Importantly, central outcome variables were assessed via self-reports and ratings by the primary counselor. Methodologically, the challenge was to estimate program impact without a control group as by German law any client in outpatient substitution treatment must be provided with psychosocial counseling. While results suggest that the program positively influences psychosocial functioning, the level of substance abuse did not significantly decrease during the course of the study (N = 101). Furthermore, because program dropout is a major problem in interventions for substance abusers, logistic regression analysis was employed to identify relevant preconditions which predict future program dropout (N = 172). Although several significant predictors were identified, they only provide a modest increase in prediction performance.
Deficits in Scaling of Gait Force and Cycle in Parkinsonian Gait Identified by Long-Term Monitoring of Acceleration with the Portable Gait Rhythmogram
Authors: Terashi Hiroo , Utsumi Hiroya , Ishimura Yohei , Takazawa Tomoko , Okuma Yasuyuki , Yoneyama Mitsuru , Mitoma Hiroshi
Published: October 2012

To examine the range of gait acceleration and cycle in daily walking of patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD), we compared the gait of 40 patients with PD and 17 normal controls by using a newly developed long-term monitoring device that extracts gait-related accelerations from overall movements-related accelerations. The range of change in gait acceleration, relative to the control, was less than 75% in 12 patients. The range of change in gait cycle was less than 75% in 8 patients. The range of changes in both parameters was less than 75% in 4 patients. The results suggest narrow changes in gait parameters in PD.
Electrical Behaviors of Flame Retardant Huntite and Hydromagnesite Reinforced Polymer Composites
Authors: Yılmaz Atay Hüsnügül , Çelik Erdal
Published: October 2012

In our previous work, we studied the physical characteristics (particle size, surface treatment, etc.) of huntite/hydromagnesite mineral in order to be employed as a flame retardant filler. With this respect, electrical properties of the mineral reinforced polymeric composites were investigated in this study. After grinding of huntite/hydromagnesite mineral to the particle size of 10 μm, 1 μm, and 0.1 μm, phase and microstructural analyses were undertaken using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS). The ground minerals with different particle size and content levels were subsequently added to ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) to produce composite materials. After fabrication of huntite/hydromagnesite reinforced plastic composite samples, they were characterized by using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and SEM-EDS. Electrical properties were measured as a main objective of this paper with Alpha-N high resolution dielectric analyzer as a function of particle size and loading level. Dielectric constant, dissipation factor, specific resistance, and conductivity of the composite materials were measured as a function of frequency. On the other hand, conductivity of Ag-coated and uncoated polymeric composite materials was measured. It was concluded that the electrical properties of plastic composites were improved with reducing the mineral particle size.
Fungi and Mycotoxins from Pre- and Poststorage Brewer's Grain Intended for Bovine Intensive Rearing
Authors: Keller L. A. M. , Pereyra C. M. , Cavaglieri L. R. , Dalcero A. M. , Rosa C. A. R.
Published: October 2012

The aim of the study was to determine the mycobiota and natural levels of mycotoxins such as aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), ochratoxin A (OTA), fumonisin B1 (FB1), and deoxynivalenol (DON) present in brewers grains pre- and poststored intended for bovine intensive rearing. Poststored (80%) samples had counts higher than 1×104 colony-forming units (CFU/g). Cladosporium spp. and Aspergillus spp. were isolated at high frequencies. Aspergillus flavus was the prevalent isolated species. Prestored (70%) and poststored (100%) samples showed AFB1 levels over the recommended limits (20 μg/Kg), and OTA levels were below the recommended limits (50 μg/Kg) while pre- and poststored samples did not show FB1 and DON natural contamination levels. The presence of mycotoxins in this substrate indicates the existence of contamination. Regular monitoring of feeds is required in order to prevent chronic and acute toxic syndromes related to this kind of contamination.
In Vitro Effects of External Pressure Changes on the Sealing Ability under Simulated Diving Conditions
Authors: Stoetzer Marcus , Ruecker Martin , Koch Andreas , Ziebolz Dirk , Kokemüller Horst , Kaempf Christina , Gellrich Nils-Claudius , von See Constantin
Published: October 2012

Aim. To measure and validate the permeability of pressure changes in correlation to different root filling techniques. Methods. Eighty extracted single-rooted teeth were randomly assigned to one of eight groups of ten teeth. Following standardized instrumentation and irrigation, root canal fillings were performed using either cold lateral condensation, a warm carrier-based gutta-percha obturation technique, a warm carrier-based Resilon, or warm gutta-percha compaction with the downpack/backfill technique. After insertion of a pressure sensor within the pulp chamber ten teeth of each group then underwent simulated dives with pressure measurement and the other ten a dye penetration test during simulated dives to 5.0 bar. Differences were analyzed statistically (P<0.05) using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results. When the warm carrier-based gutta-percha obturation technique and vertical gutta-percha obturation techniques were used, there was significant lower intrapulpal pressure to experimental chamber pressure (P>0.05). When cold lateral condensation or carrier-based Resilon as used, pressure was sometimes almost completely equalized. Conclusions. Warm gutta-percha obturation techniques provide a largely pressure-tight seal whereas the Resilon obturation technique and cold lateral condensation appear to be unsuitable to pressure changes.
Evaluation of Transfusion Pyrexia: A Review of Differential Diagnosis and Management
Authors: Arewa Oladimeji P.
Published: October 2012

Background/purpose. Transfusion pyrexia (fever) is an important clinical sign/symptom occurring either as an isolated event or as part of a constellation of signs and symptoms in relation to blood transfusion. It is an important cause of morbidity and may be an important sign of life-threatening complications of blood transfusion. Pyrexia is often a reason for the discontinuation of a blood transfusion episode, and adequate evaluation remains a challenge for clinicians. The decision to stop a blood transfusion episode on account of fever is often a difficult one. This paper reviews the differential diagnosis of transfusion pyrexia (TP), the pathogenesis as well as current management measures.Study selection and data source. Literature sources include medical texts, journals, dissertations, and internet-based electronic materialsResults and conclusion. Adequate evaluation of pyrexia accompanying blood transfusion remains a challenge for clinicians. An algorithm to assist the clinician in the evaluation of fever occurring in a blood transfusion recipient is developed and presented. Continuous medical education is necessary for clinicians towards improved patient care in transfusion medicine.
Study of Amorphous-Crystalline Phase Transformations by DSC and Dilatometer in the Case of Al-Based Amorphous Alloys
Authors: Fazakas Éva , Varga Béla , Varga Lajos Károly
Published: October 2012

The amorphous-crystalline transformation is studied by DSC and dilatometer. From the DSC signal the characteristic temperatures and the heat evolved during each transformation step can be determined. The dilatometer depicts the thermal contractions accompanying the changes in topological short range order. Although the characteristics temperatures determined by DSC and dilatometer, two methods are slightly different their dependences on the heating rate are very similar, where from the activation energies of each transformation steps can be determined using the Kissinger plots. As an example, two aluminum-based amorphous ribbon samples (Al88Mm5Ni5Co2 and Al85Y8Ni5Co2) will be measured and compared.
On the Equivalence of Multirater Kappas Based on 2-Agreement and 3-Agreement with Binary Scores
Authors: Warrens Matthijs J.
Published: October 2012

Cohen’s kappa is a popular descriptive statistic for summarizing agreement between the classifications of two raters on a nominal scale. With m≥3 raters there are several views in the literature on how to define agreement. The concept of g-agreement (g∈{2,3,…,m}) refers to the situation in which it is decided that there is agreement if g out of m raters assign an object to the same category. Given m≥2 raters we can formulate m−1 multirater kappas, one based on 2-agreement, one based on 3-agreement, and so on, and one based on m-agreement. It is shown that if the scale consists of only two categories the multi-rater kappas based on 2-agreement and 3-agreement are identical.
Enraizamento de estacas de Caesalpinia echinata Lam. em hidroponia
Authors: Valeri Sérgio Valiengo , Sá Ariadne Felício Lopo de , Martins Antonio Baldo Geraldo , Barbosa José Carlos
Published: October 2012

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/198050985731O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar a necessidade e a concentração apropriada de ácido indolbutírico (AIB) no enraizamento de estacas de Caesalpinia echinata em sistema de hidroponia, para a produção de mudas. O experimento foi realizado em casa de vegetação da Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias da UNESP Jaboticabal, SP. O material vegetal foi constituído de 160 estacas caulinares de 11 a 12 cm de comprimento com dois pares de folhas obtidas de mudas jovens produzidas partindo de sementes. As bases das estacas foram tratadas pelo método de imersão lenta em solução de etanol a 5% durante 14 horas contendo 0, 100, 200 e 400 mg L-1 de AIB e via imersão rápida em solução de etanol a 50% durante 5 segundos contendo 0, 1000, 3000 e 5000 mg L-1 de AIB. As estacas permaneceram no sistema de hidroponia por 90 dias e 90 dias adicionais em sacos de polietileno contendo Plantmax® como substrato, sendo mantidas sob nebulização intermitente. Após 90 e 180 dias de enraizamento, foram avaliados a porcentagem de sobrevivência e de estacas enraizadas, o número e o comprimento de raízes adventícias. As estacas devem ser tratadas com ácido indolbutírico na concentração de 100 mg L-1 por 14 horas e colocadas para enraizar em sistema de hidroponia.
Propriedades físicas dos lenhos juvenil e adulto de Pinus elliottii Engelm var. elliottii e de Eucalyptus grandis Hill ex Maiden
Authors: Pelozzi Melany Maria Alonso , Severo Elias Taylor Durgante , Calonego Fred Willians , Rodrigues Paula Lúcia Martins
Published: October 2012

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/198050985737O lenho juvenil apresenta grande diferença em suas propriedades anatômicas e físicas em relação ao lenho adulto. Essa heterogeneidade da madeira causa uma série de transtornos para a indústria de transformação e processamento. O presente trabalho teve como objetivo o estudo das propriedades físicas dos lenhos juvenil e adulto de Pinus elliottii Engelm var. elliottii, com 25 anos de idade, e de Eucalyptus grandis Hill ex Maiden, com 30 anos de idade, provenientes da Estação Experimental de Itapetininga e da Floresta Estadual de Santa Bárbara, pertencentes ao Instituto Florestal do Estado de São Paulo. Para tanto, de ambas as espécies, foram retirados, de tábuas radiais, corpos de prova com dimensões de 20x30x50 mm, para a determinação das massas específicas, dos inchamentos e dos coeficientes de retratibilidade dos lenhos juvenil e adulto. Os resultados das espécies mostraram que os lenhos adultos comparados com os lenhos juvenis apresentaram: (1) um aumento nos valores das massas específicas básica, a 0% e a 12% de umidade, dos inchamentos volumétricos e lineares tangencial e radial a 12% de umidade e máximos, e dos coeficientes de retratibilidade tangencial e radial; (2) uma redução nos valores de inchamentos lineares longitudinais a 12% de umidade e máximos, e do coeficiente de retratibilidade longitudinal.
Comportamento de adesão da madeira de um híbrido clonal de Eucalyptus urophylla × Eucalyptus grandis proveniente de três condições de manejo
Authors: Plaster Octávio Barbosa , Oliveira José Tarcísio da Silva , Gonçalves Fabrício Gomes , Motta Javan Pereira
Published: October 2012

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/198050985739O presente trabalho objetivou avaliar a capacidade de adesão da madeira serrada de eucalipto proveniente de três sistemas de manejo, empregando-se os adesivos: resorcina formaldeído, e dois adesivos em emulsão aquosa à base de poliacetato de vinila. Os sistemas de manejo foram caracterizados por três estratos, sendo o estrato um (E1) caracterizado por madeira proveniente de talhadia e idade de 70 meses; o estrato dois (E2) caracterizado por madeira de reforma e idade de 166 meses e o estrato três (E3) caracterizado também por reforma aos 70 meses de idade. A madeira foi originada de uma mistura aleatória das duas primeiras toras serradas, de três metros cada, a partir da base, que compuseram três tratamentos, relativos aos adesivos utilizados. Foi avaliada a resistência ao cisalhamento por compressão paralela e o percentual de falha na madeira na linha de cola. Com base nos resultados obtidos pode-se afirmar que a adesão apresentou desempenho satisfatório em todas as resinas utilizadas, sendo que os valores médios da resistência ao cisalhamento da linha de cola mostraram-se equivalentes à resistência ao cisalhamento da madeira sólida apenas para as amostras aderidas com o adesivo Wonderbond, proporcionando também maiores valores para falha na madeira (97,64%). A maior densidade presente na madeira do segundo estrato (E2) influenciou apenas na colagem com a resina resorcina formaldeído. Para o acetato de polivinila (Cascorez 2590), os valores do cisalhamento diminuíram na terceira condição de manejo (E3).
Crescimento e qualidade de mudas de jacarandá-da-bahia (Dalbergia nigra (Vell.) Allemão ex Benth.) em resposta à adubação com potássio e enxofre
Authors: Reis Bárbara Elias dos , Paiva Haroldo Nogueira de , Barros Thais Chagas , Ferreira Alberto Luís , Cardoso Wandrey da Costa
Published: October 2012

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/198050985746Estudos recentes dão ênfase às florestas nativas pela sua importância no contexto de produção de madeira, frutos e na conservação ambiental. Um dos pontos importantes, ainda a ser estudado, é a nutrição das espécies utilizadas nestes reflorestamentos. O objetivo deste trabalho foi estudar as exigências nutricionais de jacarandá-da-bahia (Dalbergia nigra (Vell.) Allemão ex Benth.) em relação à adubação com potássio e enxofre, na fase de produção de mudas. Para isso, foi conduzido um experimento no viveiro de pesquisas do Departamento de Engenharia Florestal, da Universidade Federal de Viçosa, utilizando vasos de polietileno rígido com 2,0 dm³ de capacidade e como substrato um Latossolo Vermelho-Amarelo álico. Foi adotado um esquema fatorial, disposto em delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado, utilizando-se como tratamentos cinco doses de potássio (0; 50; 100; 150 e 200 mg dm-³ de K) combinadas com seis doses de enxofre (0, 20, 40, 60, 80 e 100 mg dm-3 de S), as quais foram parceladas em quatro aplicações: 0, 30, 60 e 90 dias após o raleio. Após 157 dias de semeadura, foram colhidos dados da altura, do diâmetro do coleto, da matéria seca da parte aérea e da raiz, além das relações altura/diâmetro do coleto, altura/massa seca parte aérea, massa seca parte aérea/massa seca de raiz e o índice de qualidade de Dickson. As mudas de jacarandá-da-bahia responderam negativamente à adubação potássica para a maioria das características avaliadas. Considerando a produção de matéria seca total, recomenda-se a aplicação de 30 mg dm -3 de S e 30 mg dm -3 de K para a produção de mudas de jacarandá-da-bahia.
Crescimento e eficiência do uso da água de plantas jovens de castanheira-daamazônia em área degradada e submetidas à adubação
Authors: Ferreira Marciel José , Gonçalves José Francisco de Carvalho , Ferraz João Baptista Silva
Published: October 2012

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/198050985747O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar as taxas de crescimento absoluto (TCA), as trocas gasosas foliares e o potencial hídrico foliar (YW) de plantas jovens de castanheira-da-Amazônia (Bertholletia excelsa Humb. & Bonpl.), quando submetidas a tratamentos de adubação (química ou verde), comparados com tratamento sem adubação, para restauração de área degradada na Amazônia central. Os tratamentos aplicados foram: controle (sem adubação), adubação química (Ouromag®) e adubação verde (fragmentos de galhos e folhas). A TCA em diâmetro e altura, no tratamento com adubação verde, foi cerca de 12 vezes superior ao controle. O YW atingiu na antemanhã o valor máximo de -0,19 MPa e ao meio-dia o valor mínimo de -2,8 MPa, ambos no tratamento com adubação verde. A eficiência intrínseca no uso da água (EIUA) não exibiu diferenças entre os tratamentos. Ao contrário da eficiência no uso da água (EUA), que, nos tratamentos com adubação verde e química, foram observados aumentos de 66 e 38%, respectivamente, em relação ao controle. Portanto, conclui-se que os tratamentos de adubação, especialmente a adubação verde, devido a melhorias que proporciona no uso dos recursos primários, bem como a água, desempenham papel importante no crescimento de plantas de Bertholletia excelsa na fase jovem de plantios florestais sobre área degradada na Amazônia.
Sombreamento na emergência de plântulas e no crescimento inicial de Dipteryx alata Vog.
Authors: Mota Leandro Henrique de Sousa , Scalon Silvana de Paula Quintão , Heinz Rafael
Published: October 2012

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/198050986611Esse trabalho foi desenvolvido com o objetivo de avaliar o potencial de emergência das plântulas e o crescimento das mudas do baru (Dipteryx alata Vog.) em diferentes níveis de sombreamento. Para avaliar a emergência, a semeadura foi realizada em bandejas de células contendo substrato Plantmax® + terra + areia + cama de frango na proporção de 1:1:1:0,5 e mantidas a pleno sol, 50 % e 70 % de sombreamento. O experimento foi realizado em delineamento inteiramente casualizado com três níveis de sombreamento em quatro repetições de 25 sementes. Foram avaliados a porcentagem e o índice de velocidade de emergência. Para avaliar o crescimento inicial, as plântulas foram transplantadas e três repetições de 15 mudas, totalizando 45 mudas, foram mantidas em seus respectivos sombreamentos. O experimento foi realizado em delineamento inteiramente casualizado em esquema fatorial 3 (níveis de sombreamento) x 5 (épocas de avaliação para a altura, diâmetro do coleto, clorofila total, transpiração, condutância estomática e taxa fotossintética) e 2 (épocas de avaliação para área foliar, comprimento de raiz, massas fresca e seca). Os níveis de sombreamento não influenciaram na porcentagem nem no índice de velocidade de emergência das plântulas (71,3 % e 1,08, respectivamente). Os maiores valores de altura (16 cm), área foliar (220,2 cm2), comprimento de raiz (14,9 cm), massa fresca e seca (9,71 g e 3,21 g) das mudas foram observados sob sombreamento, não variando entre eles. As mudas apresentaram a menor taxa fotossintética a 70 % de sombreamento (6,8 μmol m-2s-1). Os níveis de sombreamento avaliados não influenciaram na emergência das plântulas, entretanto, as mudas apresentaram melhor crescimento quando mantidas até os 125 dias de idade sob 50 % de sombreamento.