bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Detectability of Radio Auroral Emission from Proxima b
Authors: Burkhart Blakesley , Loeb Abraham
Published: October 2017

Magnetically active stars possess stellar winds whose interactions with planetary magnetic fields produce radio auroral emission. We examine the detectability of radio auroral emission from Proxima b, the closest known exosolar planet orbiting our nearest neighboring star, Proxima Centauri. Using the radiometric Bode’s law, we estimate the radio flux produced by the interaction of Proxima Centauri’s stellar wind and Proxima b’s magnetosphere for different planetary magnetic field strengths. For plausible planetary masses, Proxima b could produce radio fluxes of 100 mJy or more in a frequency range of 0.02–3 MHz for planetary magnetic field strengths of 0.007–1 G. According to recent MHD models that vary the orbital parameters of the system, this emission is expected to be highly variable. This variability is due to large fluctuations in the size of Proxima b’s magnetosphere as it crosses the equatorial streamer regions of dense stellar wind and high dynamic pressure. Using the MHD model of Garraffo et al. for the variation of the magnetosphere radius during the orbit, we estimate that the observed radio flux can vary nearly by an order of magnitude over the 11.2-day period of Proxima b. The detailed amplitude variation depends on the stellar wind, orbital, and planetary magnetic field parameters. We discuss observing strategies for proposed future space-based observatories to reach frequencies below the ionospheric cutoff (∼10 MHz), which would be required to detect the signal we investigate.
Estimating the Magnetic Field Strength in Hot Jupiters
Authors: Yadav Rakesh K. , Thorngren Daniel P.
Published: October 2017

A large fraction of known Jupiter-like exoplanets are inflated as compared to Jupiter. These “hot” Jupiters orbit close to their parent star and are bombarded with intense starlight. Many theories have been proposed to explain their radius inflation and several suggest that a small fraction of the incident starlight is injected into the planetary interior, which helps to puff up the planet. How will such energy injection affect the planetary dynamo? In this Letter, we estimate the surface magnetic field strength of hot Jupiters using scaling arguments that relate energy available in planetary interiors to the dynamo-generated magnetic fields. We find that if we take into account the energy injected in the planetary interior that is sufficient to inflate hot Jupiters to observed radii, then the resulting dynamo should be able generate magnetic fields that are more than an order of magnitude stronger than the Jovian values. Our analysis highlights the potential fundamental role of the stellar light in setting the field strength in hot Jupiters.
Institutionalisation of the Analytical Support Function to Ensure Credibility of Defence Management - Canada, Norway, Sweden and NATO Case Study
Authors: Procházka Josef
Published: October 2017

The paper outlines several recommendations for strengthening the institutional framework of the analytical support function for credible defence management. Recommendations are drawn based on the outcome of the institutional research project named Strategic Alternatives conducted by the Centre for Security and Military Strategic Studies of University of Defence (CSMSS). The multi-objective research focuses on organisational arrangement of the analytical support function within the overall ministry of defence organisational architecture of several countries (Canada, Norway, Sweden) as well as the NATO structure and management (in this case, the main focus embraces the analytical support to defence planning). Analytical support to defence decision making process in these countries enjoys a long-term tradition which goes back to the period of WWII. The way the analytical function is understood is highly relevant also for the enhancement of credible defence management in the Czech Republic and its Ministry of Defence.
Czech Defence Policy - Critical Assessment and Recommendations
Authors: Procházka Josef , Dyčka Lukáš
Published: October 2017

The research described in this paper was conducted in the framework of institutional research project Strategic Alternatives (STRATAL) within the Centre for Security and Military Strategic Studies of University of Defence in Brno, the Czech Republic. The main objective of this contribution is to assess the evolution of the Czech defence policy (CDP) since the last summer 2016. The main impetuses for the CDP evolution were provided by the NATO Summit in Warsaw, new European Global Strategy including the ambition to enhance defence cooperation among the EU member states and the pattern of dynamics in our security environment. The authors analysed the key change drivers (KCDs) and measures taken in political, military, administrative, economical and societal domain in order to evaluate the overall effectiveness of the defence policy. Finally, the authors offer several recommendations to enhance the responsiveness and preparedness of the Czech defence system and the Armed Forces both in short- and long-term time span.
Molecular Screening for Malaria among Blood Donors in a WHO Claimed Region of Egypt, Fayoum Governorate
Authors: Hassan Salwa Bakr
Published: October 2017

ABSTRACT Background: Transfusion transmitted malaria is undoubtedly a potential health hazard for blood recipients. Egypt is still on the prevention of reintroduction phase of malaria control program. Fayoum Governorate is considered one of the high risk foci due to its geology in Egypt, however no studies have been reported to evaluate the current status of subclinical Plasmodium infection based on sensitive molecular techniques. Moreover, screening of malaria is not listed within screening protocols of blood-borne pathogens in Fayoum blood banks. Objective: To assess the current prevalence of subclinical Plasmodium infection among blood donors of Fayoum inhabitants for transfusion biosafety. To predict if there is any possibility of reemergence of malaria in the governorate and effectiveness of malaria control measures. Methods: A cross sectional survey was conducted on 400 apparently healthy blood-donors in blood transfusion center of Fayoum University hospital from Jun 2012 to Jan 2013. Conventional PCR was used to detect the 18 S ssrRNA Plasmodium gene. Results: All Fayoum inhabitants’ blood donors’ samples were negative for Plasmodium infection. Conclusions: Current applied control and preventive measures are effective in the context of blood transfusion biosafety in Fayoum blood banks and, therefore, the implementation of a routine malaria screening test in Fayoum blood banks is not merited at this time. In light of our study, we can assume that malaria has been successfully eliminated, at present, from Fayoum Governorate. However further comprehensive study is recommended to screen and stratify the results according to age, substantiate the assume eradication of the infection. Regular monitoring is still needed. Keywords: Malaria, Fayoum, Transfusion biosafety, Plasmodium.
The impact of corporate governance on firm competitiveness and performance of small and medium enterprises in South Africa: A case of small and medium enterprises in Vanderbijlpark
Authors: Hove-Sibanda Progress , Sibanda Kin , Pooe David
Published: October 2017

Orientation: Corporate governance adoption and compliance are an issue augmenting in importance recently and have been extended to business enterprises of any size including small and medium enterprises (SMEs).Research purpose: This study seeks to examine the impact of corporate governance adoption on the firm competitiveness and performance of SMEs in Vanderbijlpark.Research design, approach and method: The study employs a cross-sectional research design, which employed quantitative methods. One hundred fifty-two SME owners or managers were selected from Vanderbijlpark in Gauteng, South Africa. The collected data were analysed using a structural equation modelling system by using Smart PLS software.Main findings: The principal findings of this study revealed that the implementation of corporate governance by SMEs significantly and positively affected their competitiveness and performance.Practical and managerial implications: The paper provided practical implications and made some recommendations.Contribution or value-added: This article bridges the gap between theory and practice because it has both an economic and commercial impact in practice. It can be used in influencing public policy, teaching and research (because it contributes to the body of knowledge, particularly regarding SME corporate governance in emerging markets). An important aspect of this article is that it gives a framework for additional similar studies in other locations within emerging markets to test the generalisability of the findings. For teaching purposes, it provides a template for how to assess the link that exists between corporate governance and SME performance. Lastly, the article gives a unique empirical analysis of the relationship that exists between corporate governance compliance and performance of firms in South Africa, and thereby giving a valid contribution to corporate governance literature.
Les prions, agents d’encéphalopathies transmissibles chez les mammifères
Authors: Béringue Vincent
Published: October 2017

Les maladies à prion sont des affections neurodégénératives d’issue fatale touchant principalement les ruminants d’élevage et l’homme. Les prions sont des agents infectieux constitués d’une protéine de l’hôte, la PrP qui, sous sa forme pathologique, s’agrège en polymères de type amyloïde autopropagés. Bien que totalement dépourvus de génome, les prions montrent des propriétés analogues à celles d’autres agents infectieux, dont la diversité de souche, le tropisme tissulaire et la capacité à franchir les barrières de transmission interspécifique. Le but de cette revue est de faire une synthèse des connaissances et des avancées récentes dans ce domaine complexe.
Anticipation et adaptation des politiques publiques : le rôle d’une agence de sécurité sanitaire
Authors: Salvat Gilles , Parisot Pascale , Genet Roger
Published: October 2017

Au sein du paysage des agences de sécurité sanitaire, l’Anses occupe une position particulière par son large champ de compétences embrassant à la fois la sécurité sanitaire humaine dans les domaines de l’environnement, du travail et de l’alimentation ainsi que la protection de la santé et du bien-être des animaux et la protection de la santé des végétaux. L’Anses dispose de plus pour la réalisation de ses missions de laboratoires de recherche et de référence. Le travail en synergie des missions d’évaluation des risques, de délivrance des autorisations de mise sur le marché dans ses domaines de compétence et de recherche et de référence permet à l’Agence d’être un opérateur essentiel dans l’anticipation des crises sanitaires et dans l’appui à leur gestion par les autorités de tutelles. Il contribue à l’adaptation des politiques publiques dans le domaine de la sécurité sanitaire.
Transmission interhumaine des protéinopathies du système nerveux central : les données disponibles en 2016
Authors: Haïk Stéphane
Published: October 2017

Bien des maladies neurodégénératives, qu’elles soient d’origine génétique ou sporadique, s’accompagnent de la formation d’agrégats d’une ou plusieurs protéines spécifiques qui forment des inclusions intracellulaires (neuronales ou gliales, cytoplasmiques ou nucléaires) ou des dépôts extra-cellulaires (volontiers sous la forme de plaques amyloïdes). Les recherches menées ces 10 dernières années ont apporté des arguments neuropathologiques et expérimentaux en faveur d’une propagation à la manière des prions de ces structures protéiques, suggérant que certaines maladies conformationelles comme les maladies d’Alzheimer et de Parkinson puissent être transmissibles. Cette question de l’infectiosité potentielle des maladies neurodégénératives chez l’homme, qui a, au-delà de leur nosologie, des conséquences en santé publique et sur la gestion du risque en laboratoire, est discutée à la lumière des données les plus récentes.
Rat Fall Surveillance Coupled with Vector Control and Community Education as a Plague Prevention Strategy in the West Nile Region, Uganda
Authors: Boegler Karen A. , Atiku Linda A. , Enscore Russell E. , Apangu Titus , Mpanga Joseph Tendo , Acayo Sarah , Kaggwa John , Mead Paul S. , Yockey Brook M. , Kugeler Kiersten J. , Schriefer Martin E. , Horiuchi Kalanthe , Gage Kenneth L. , Eisen Rebecca J.
Published: October 2017

Plague, primarily a disease of rodents, is most frequently transmitted by fleas and causes potentially fatal infections in humans. In Uganda, plague is endemic to the West Nile region. Primary prevention for plague includes control of rodent hosts or flea vectors, but targeting these efforts is difficult given the sporadic nature of plague epizootics in the region and limited resource availability. Here, we present a community-based strategy to detect and report rodent deaths (rat fall), an early sign of epizootics. Laboratory testing of rodent carcasses is used to trigger primary and secondary prevention measures: indoor residual spraying (IRS) and community-based plague education, respectively. During the first 3 years of the program, individuals from 142 villages reported 580 small mammal deaths; 24 of these tested presumptive positive for Yersinia pestis by fluorescence microscopy. In response, for each of the 17 affected communities, village-wide IRS was conducted to control rodent-associated fleas within homes, and community sensitization was conducted to raise awareness of plague signs and prevention strategies. No additional presumptive Y. pestis-positive carcasses were detected in these villages within the 2-month expected duration of residual activity for the insecticide used in IRS. Despite comparatively high historic case counts, no human plague cases were reported from villages participating in the surveillance program; five cases were reported from elsewhere in the districts. We evaluate community participation and timeliness of response, report the frequency of human plague cases in participating and surrounding villages, and evaluate whether a program such as this could provide a sustainable model for plague prevention in endemic areas.
Estudiantes universitarios. Rosas… cardos y ortigas en la construcción de identidades profesionales.
Authors: Rinaudo María Cristina , Paoloni Paola Verónica Rita
Published: October 2017

El propósito de elaborar una caracterización de los estudiantes que asisten hoy a las universidades nos lleva a tratar con un problema que admite y reclama diversas perspectivas de análisis. Pensamos que cualquier estudio en esta línea requerirá una definición -o al menos una explicitación previa- de los parámetros a los que se atenderá para emprender la descripción de los rasgos distintivos de estos colectivos. En otros términos, parece necesario detenerse a considerar qué nos interesa conocer acerca del estudiante universitario, cuáles son los datos que deberíamos recolectar y que nos podrían decir, cuál es la relevancia de ese conocimiento y qué tipo de acciones podría propiciar.

Tres propósitos centrales animaron la elaboración de este trabajo: en primer lugar, discriminar líneas de análisis que puedan contribuir a una mejor investigación acerca de los estudiantes universitarios; en segundo lugar, avanzar en la comprensión de los aspectos psicológicos que influyen en la construcción de identidad durante los años de formación universitaria y, por último, identificar acciones que, desde el ámbito universitario, acompañen y apoyen el proceso intersubjetivo de construcción de identidades profesionales.

Las tres secciones que componen el escrito atienden respectivamente a los propósitos arriba mencionados. Los resultados hallados nos llevan a enfatizar la relevancia de encauzar el estudio de los problemas educativos en consonancia con una perspectiva de trabajo que implique decididamente un compromiso con la diversidad.
Jóvenes investigadores en las aulas universitarias: una experiencia de innovación docente en el Grado de Educación social
Authors: Moreno Fernández Olga , Moreno Crespo Pilar
Published: October 2017

El Espacio Europeo de Educación Superior pretende conectar el mercado  de trabajo con una educación basada en las competencias del alumnado. En este contexto, se ha realizado un proyecto, enmarcado en el Plan Propio de Innovación y Desarrollo Docente de la Universidad Pablo de Olavide, cuyo objetivo principal es que el alumnado del Grado de Educación Social, y, futuros Educadores Sociales,  aprenda, se implique, y reflexione sobre sus funciones profesionales, capacitándolo para elaborar estudios científicos y difundir sus resultados. Se ha optado por una metodología flexible, apoyada en distintos recursos. Su valoración se realizó en dos fases. Concluimos incidiendo en la necesidad de que los cambios metodológicos se acojan a las necesidades reales de los docentes como del alumnado.
Conocimiento y praxis docente universitaria: entre la profesión de base y la investigación disciplinar. Estudio de casos múltiples
Authors: Demuth Mercado Patricia Belén
Published: October 2017

En el estudio de casos múltiples que presentamos, abordaremos los diferentes estilos didácticos que pudimos reconstruir con profesores universitarios experimentados y principiantes de dos departamentos: Ciencias de la Educación y Odontología de la Universidad Nacional del Nordeste, en Argentina.
Hemos trabajado desde el enfoque cualitativo y el paradigma interpretativo, pretendiendo la comprensión del conocimiento de los profesores y su relación con las propuestas didácticas. Se eligió como estrategia metodológica al estudio de casos, cuyos instrumentos de recogida de la información fueron entrevistas en profundidad; observaciones de clases no-participantes, y aportes de los materiales profesionales y curriculares de los sujetos.
Entre las principales conclusiones señalamos cómo los diferentes estilos docentes se configuran a partir de las culturas profesionales dentro y fuera del contexto universitario, condicionadas éstas por el contexto social-regional. Los docentes estudiados pensaban y desarrollaban sus propuestas didácticas en vistas a las posibilidades y características profesionales de la región, y a las propias concepciones sostenidas a partir de su pertenencia a culturas profesionales determinadas.
La relevancia de estas conclusiones se evidencia al poner en discusión un aspecto distintivo de la docencia universitaria: la posibilidad de doble pertenencia profesional del profesorado: a la universidad como docentes, y como profesionales liberales, por fuera de la misma; y la influencia en las propuestas docentes en la formación inicial.
Presentación del monográfico "Epistemologías Docentes"
Authors: Nóvoa António , Bolívar Antonio
Published: October 2017

 
Relation of surface and underground waters in Chungará and Cotacotani lake districts, northern Chile: an isotopic study
Authors: Herrera Christian , Pueyo Juan Jose , Saez Alberto , Valero-Garces Blas L.
Published: October 2017

Lake Chungará and Cotacotani lake districts are surface water bodies located to the northwest of Lauca Basin in the northern Chilean Altiplano. Surface and underground waters show low to moderate saline content and an electrical conductivity in the range of 48.7 to 3090 μS/cm. The lakes are related to a system of aquifers on the nearby volcano flanks and debris avalanche deposits of Parinacota volcano. On the basis of δ18O and δD isotopic composition and its correlation with the chloride content in Chungará and Cotacotani lake, spring, and Chungará river waters it is demonstrated that: a. Lake Chungará's waters show vertical and horizontal homogeneous isotopic composition, which indicates a good mixture of waters in the lake; b. an important part of the Cotacotani lake recharge feeding come from Lake Chungará, that flows laterally as groundwater; c. the groundwater that feeds the springs of the area has its main recharge in the spring-summer (October-March) precipitation. The high content of tritium (3H) measured in spring waters of the area suggested a very recent recharge (last decades) of the aquifer system. The application of lumped parameter models to interpret the water residence time in the aquifer indicates that the piston flow model shows the best fit to the isotopic composition of Chungará-Cotacotani groundwater.
Fossil penguins (Pygoscelis calderensis sp. nov.) in the Bahía Inglesa Formation (Middle Miocene-Pliocene), Chile
Authors: Acosta Hospitaleche Carolina , Chavez Martin , Fritis Omar
Published: October 2017

Three new penguin skulls (Spheniscidae), assigned to the new species Pygoscelis calderensis sp. nov. from the Bahía Inglesa Formation of Middle Miocene-Pliocene age located south of Caldera on the coast of the III Región de Atacama, Chile (27°00'S, 70°45'W to 28°00', 71°00'W), are described. This finding broadens the geographic and chronologic distribution of the genus, constituting its most northern record. Before the present work, the genus was known from the Late Pliocene of New Zealand. This record, together with other faunistic evidences, suggests the existence of periods or cold oceanic currents during the Neogene.
Paleogene Glyptodontidae Propalaehoplophorinae (Mammalia, Xenarthra) in extra-Patagonian areas
Authors: Zurita Alfredo E. , González-Ruiz Laureano R. , Miño-Boilini Angel R. , Herbst Rafael , Scillato-Yané Gustavo J. , Cuaranta Pedro
Published: October 2017

Paleogene records of Cingulata Glyptodontidae are scarce. The only well described comes from the Paleogene of Argentine Patagonia. Two subfamilies have been reported for that period: Glyptatelinae and Propalaehoplophorinae. Until this contribution, the latter taxon was geographically restricted to the locality of El Pajarito (Late Oligocene, Deseadan SALMA), Chubut province, Argentina. Here we present and describe the northernmost record of a Paleogene Propalaehoplophorinae. The material is represented by three associated osteoderms of the dorsal carapace from the Fray Bentos Formation (Late Oligocene, Deseadan SALMA) in the locality of Cueva del Tigre, Chajarí, Entre Ríos province, Argentina. Morphologically, these remains are almost identical to those reported from the late Oligocene of the Patagonian region, showing that during the Paleogene the Propalaehoplophorinae had a larger latitudinal distribution than previously known.
Temporal seismic wave velocity variations at Láscar volcano
Authors: González Diego M. , Bataille Klaus , Eulenfeld Tom , Franco Luis E.
Published: October 2017

We report on the first study using Seismic Wave Interferometry to determine variations of seismic velocities through time, in the vicinity of Láscar volcano in Chile. Seismic Wave Interferometry has been used as a powerful tool to determine spatial and temporal changes of seismic velocities within the Earth. Spatial variations of seismic velocities are related to heterogeneities of material properties, which are expected to occur in a complex structure. However, temporal changes are indicative of dynamic process within the elastic media, and thus, this tool can be used to monitor dynamic processes at volcanic zones. We find consistent variations on three stations close to the volcano, with dv/v of ±0.6%, most likely related to the inflation/deflation process due to fluid movement of magmatic or hydrothermal origin within the volcanic structure. During the observed period of velocity variation, OVDAS reported an increase of volcanic activity evidenced by the increase of the number of long period seismic events, increase of gas emissions and the formation of incandescence above the crater. We suggest that this tool can contribute to the understanding of volcano related dynamic processes, as well as for routine volcano monitoring purposes.
Exhumation history and landscape evolution of the Sierra de San Luis (Sierras Pampeanas, Argentina) - new insights from low - temperature thermochronological data
Authors: Bense Frithjof , Costa Carlos , Oriolo Sebastián , Löbens Stefan , Dunkl Istvan , Wemmer Klaus , Siegesmund Siegfried
Published: October 2017

This paper presents low-temperature thermochronological data and K‑Ar fault gouge ages from the Sierra de San Luis in the Eastern Sierras Pampeanas in order to constrain its low-temperature thermal evolution and exhumation history. Thermal modelling based on (U-Th)/He dating of apatite and zircon and apatite fission track dating point to the Middle Permian and the Triassic/Early Jurassic as main cooling/exhumation phases, equivalent to ca. 40-50% of the total exhumation recorded by the applied methods. Cooling rates are generally low to moderate, varying between 2-10 °C/Ma during the Permian and Triassic periods and 0.5-1.5 °C/Ma in post-Triassic times. Slow cooling and, thus, persistent residence of samples in partial retention/partial annealing temperature conditions strongly influenced obtained ages. Thermochronological data indicate no significant exhumation after Cretaceous times, suggesting that sampled rocks were already at or near surface by the Cretaceous or even before. As consequence, Cenozoic cooling rates are low, generally between 0.2-0.5 °C/Ma which is, depending on geothermal gradient used for calculation, equivalent to a total Cenozoic exhumation of 0.6-1.8 km. K-Ar fault gouge data reveal long-term brittle fault activity. Fault gouge ages constrain the end of ductile and onset of brittle deformation in the Sierra de San Luis to the Late Carboniferous/Early Permian. Youngest K-Ar illite ages of 222-172 Ma are interpreted to represent the last illite formation event, although fault activity is recorded up to the Holocene.
Ortoneises en la Franja Silos-Babega, Macizo de Santander, Colombia: evidencias de la orogenia famatiniana en los Andes del norte
Authors: García-Ramírez Carlos Alberto , Rey León Vanessa , Valencia Víctor Alejandro
Published: October 2017

The Orthogneiss unit in the Santander Massif, Northern Colombian Andes, mainly consists of quartzfeldspathic, pelitic and minor mafic orthogneisses and amphibolites. Petrographic, geochemical and geochronological studies carried out on orthogneisses from the Silos-Babega belt, indicate that they are granodioritic and granitic in composition with protolith formed by crustal melting in an active continental magmatic arc. They were syntectonically emplaced in the Silgara Schists unit. Metamorphic peak of the Orthogneiss unit reach amphibolite facies conditions in the range of 4.3-10 kbar in pressure and 540-690 °C in temperature. Zircon U-Pb LA-ICP-MS ages of 471±11 and 479±10 Ma were obtained and these ages are similar to those known for the Orthogneiss unit in the central and the eastern Santander Massif and confirm the continuity to the north of the Andean protomargin as a result of the Famatinian orogeny.
Emissions of trace gases from Australian temperate forest fires: emission factors and dependence on modified combustion efficiency
Authors: Guérette Elise-Andrée , Paton-Walsh Clare , Desservettaz Maximilien , Smith Thomas E. L. , Volkova Liubov , Weston Christopher J. , Meyer C. P.
Published: October 2017

Abstract. We characterised trace gas emissions from Australian temperate forest fires through a mixture of in situ open-path FTIR measurements spectroscopy and selective ion flow tube mass spectrometry (SIFT-MS) and White cell FTIR spectroscopy of grab samples. We report emission factors for a total of 25 trace gas species measured in smoke from nine prescribed fires. We find significant dependence on modified combustion efficiency (MCE) for some species, although regional differences indicate that the use of MCE as a proxy may be limited. We also find that the fire-integrated MCE values derived from our in situ on-the-ground open-path measurements are not significantly different from those reported for airborne measurements of smoke from fires in the same ecosystem. We then compare our average emission factors to those measured for fires in North American temperate ecosystems and for fires in Australian savanna and find that, although emission factors of some species agree within 20 %, others differ by a factor of 2 or more. This indicates that the use of ecosystem-specific emission factors is warranted for applications involving emissions from Australian forest fires.
Importance of Sulfate Radical Anion Formation and Chemistry in Heterogeneous OH Oxidation of Sodium Methyl Sulfate, the Smallest Organosulfate
Authors: Kwong Kai Chung , Chim Man Mei , Davies James F. , Wilson Kevin R. , Chan Man Nin
Published: October 2017

Abstract. Organosulfates are important organosulfur compounds present in atmospheric particles. While the abundance, composition, and formation mechanisms of organosulfates have been extensively investigated, it remains unclear how they transform and evolve throughout their atmospheric lifetime. To acquire a fundamental understanding of how organosulfates chemically transform in the atmosphere, this work investigates the heterogeneous OH radical-initiated oxidation of sodium methyl sulfate (CH3SO4Na) droplets, the smallest organosulfate detected in atmospheric particles, using an aerosol flow tube reactor at a high relative humidity of 85 %. Aerosol mass spectra measured by a soft atmospheric pressure ionization source (Direct Analysis in Real Time, DART) coupled with a high-resolution mass spectrometer showed that neither functionalization nor fragmentation products are detected. Instead, the ion signal intensity of the bisulfate ion (HSO4−) has been found to increase significantly after OH oxidation. We postulate that sodium methyl sulfate tends to fragment into a formaldehyde (CH2O) and a sulfate radical anion (SO4•−) upon OH oxidation. The formaldehyde is likely partitioned back to the gas phase due to its high volatility. The sulfate radical anion, similar to OH radical, can abstract a hydrogen atom from neighboring sodium methyl sulfate to form the bisulfate ion, contributing to the secondary chemistry. Kinetic measurements show that the heterogeneous OH reaction rate constant, k, is (3.79 ± 0.19) × 10−13 cm3 molecule−1 s−1 with an effective OH uptake coefficient, γeff, of 0.17 ± 0.03. While about 40 % of sodium methyl sulfate is being oxidized at the maximum OH exposure (1.27 × 1012 molecule cm−3 s), only a 3 % decrease in particle diameter is observed. This can be attributed to a small fraction of particle mass lost via the formation and volatilization of formaldehyde. Overall, we firstly demonstrate that the heterogeneous OH oxidation of an organosulfate can lead to the formation of sulfate radical anion and produce inorganic sulfate. Fragmentation processes and sulfate radical anion chemistry play a key role in determining the compositional evolution of sodium methyl sulfate during heterogeneous OH oxidation.
Bias assessment of lower and middle tropospheric CO2 concentrations of GOSAT/TANSO-FTS TIR version 1 product
Authors: Saitoh Naoko , Kimoto Shuhei , Sugimura Ryo , Imasu Ryoichi , Shiomi Kei , Kuze Akihiko , Niwa Yosuke , Machida Toshinobu , Sawa Yousuke , Matsueda Hidekazu
Published: October 2017

Abstract. CO2 observations in the free troposphere can be useful for constraining CO2 source and sink estimates at the surface since they represent CO2 concentrations away from point source emissions. The thermal infrared (TIR) band of the Thermal and Near Infrared Sensor for Carbon Observation (TANSO) Fourier transform spectrometer (FTS) on board the Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite (GOSAT) has been observing global CO2 concentrations in the free troposphere for about 8 years and thus could provide a dataset with which to evaluate the vertical transport of CO2 from the surface to the upper atmosphere. This study evaluated biases in the TIR version 1 (V1) CO2 product in the lower troposphere (LT) and the middle troposphere (MT) (736–287 hPa), on the basis of comparisons with CO2 profiles obtained over airports using Continuous CO2 Measuring Equipment (CME) in the Comprehensive Observation Network for Trace gases by AIrLiner (CONTRAIL) project. Bias-correction values are presented for TIR CO2 data for each pressure layer in the LT and MT regions during each season and in each latitude band: 40–20° S, 20° S–20° N, 20–40° N, and 40–60° N. TIR V1 CO2 data had consistent negative biases of 1–1.5 % compared with CME CO2 data in the LT and MT regions, with the largest negative biases at 541–398 hPa, partly due to the use of 10 µm CO2 absorption band in conjunction with 15 and 9 µm absorption bands in the V1 retrieval algorithm. Global comparisons between TIR CO2 data to which the bias-correction values were applied and CO2 data simulated by a transport model based on the Nonhydrostatic ICosahedral Atmospheric Model (NICAM-TM) confirmed the validity of the bias-correction values evaluated over airports in limited areas. In low latitudes in the upper MT region (398–287 hPa), however, TIR CO2 data in northern summer were overcorrected by these bias-correction values; this is because the bias-correction values were determined using comparisons mainly over airports in Southeast Asia, where CO2 concentrations in the upper atmosphere display relatively large variations due to strong updrafts.
Plasma line observations from the EISCAT Svalbard Radar during the International Polar Year
Authors: Ivchenko Nickolay , Schlatter Nicola M. , Dahlgren Hanna , Ogawa Yasunobu , Sato Yuka , Häggström Ingemar
Published: October 2017

Abstract. Photo-electrons and secondary electrons from particle precipitation enhance the incoherent scatter plasma line to levels sufficient for detection. When detectable the plasma line gives accurate measure of the electron density and can potentially be used to constrain incoherent scatter estimates of electron temperature. We investigate the statistical occurrence of plasma line enhancements with data from the high-latitude EISCAT Svalbard Radar obtained during the International Polar Year (IPY, 2007–2008). A computationally fast method was implemented to recover the range-frequency dependence of the plasma line. Plasma line backscatter strength strongly depends on time of day, season, altitude, and geomagnetic activity, and the backscatter is detectable in 22.6 % of the total measurements during the IPY. As expected, maximum detection is achieved when photo-electrons due to the Sun's EUV radiation are present. During summer daytime hours the occurrence of detectable plasma lines at altitudes below the F-region peak is up to 90 %. During wintertime the occurrence is a few percent. Electron density profiles recovered from the plasma line show great detail of density variations in height and time. For example, effects of inertial gravity waves on the electron density are observed.
Reconstruction of the Greenland Ice Sheet surface
mass balance and the spatiotemporal distribution of
freshwater runoff from Greenland to surrounding seas
Authors: Mernild Sebastian H. , Liston Glen E. , Beckerman Andrew P. , Yde Jacob C.
Published: October 2017

Abstract. Knowledge about variations in runoff from Greenland to adjacent fjords and seas is important for the hydrochemistry and ocean research communities to understand the link between terrestrial and marine Arctic environments. Here, we simulate the Greenland Ice Sheet (GrIS) surface mass balance (SMB), including refreezing and retention, and runoff together with catchment-scale runoff from the entire Greenland landmass (n = 3,272 simulated catchments) throughout the 35-year period 1979–2014. SnowModel/HydroFlow was applied at 3-h intervals to resolve the diurnal cycle and at 5-km horizontal grid increments using ERA-Interim (ERA-I) reanalysis atmospheric forcing. Simulated SMB was low compared to earlier studies, whereas the GrIS surface conditions and precipitation were similar. Variations in meteorological and surface ice and snow cover conditions influenced the seasonal variability in simulated catchment runoff; variations in the GrIS internal drainage system were assumed negligible and a time-invariant digital elevation model was applied. Approximately 80 % of all catchments showed increasing runoff trends over the 35 years, with on average relatively high and low catchment-scale runoff from the SW and N parts of Greenland, respectively. Outputs from an Empirical Orthogonal Function (EOF) analysis were combined with cross-correlations indicating a direct link (zero lag time) between modeled catchment-scale runoff and variations in the large-scale atmospheric circulation indices North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) and Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO). This suggests that natural variabilities in AMO and NAO constitute major controls on catchment-scale runoff variations in Greenland.
Diagnóstico das nascentes da bacia hidrográfica do córrego do Vargedo
Authors: Marciano Alexandre Gemano , Silva Luiz Felipe , Silva Ana Paula Moni
Published: October 2017

O presente trabalho teve por finalidade diagnosticar o estado de preservação das nascentes localizadas na bacia hidrográfica do córrego do Vargedo, no município de Santa Rita do Sapucaí, MG. A metodologia adotada foi averiguar a localização geográfica, o regime de água, tipo de reservatório, o grau de preservação, a conformidade com a Lei Federal nº 12.651, de maio de 2012, a vazão e a utilização das águas. Foram estudadas 26 nascentes, nas quais constatou-se que as suas áreas são ambientalmente delicadas, que existe um processo de deterioração constate pela interferência humana e que a água das nascentes é um recurso altamente utilizado para consumo humano. Após o diagnostico realizado conclui-se que as nascentes são locais alterados, que há necessidade de uma ação de recuperação com o fim de prevenir a perda da nascente. Palavras-chaves: nascentes; conservação; áreas degradadas.
AVALIAÇÃO GEOMÉTRICA DA CÂMARA DE UM DISPOSITIVO DE CONVERSÃO DE ENERGIA DAS ONDAS DO TIPO OWC PARA DIFERENTES COMPRIMENTOS DA BORDA FRONTAL
Authors: Letzow Max , Levien Felipe Vilela , Pons Rafael Dos Passos , Gomes Mateus Das Neves , Souza Jeferson Avila , Rocha Luiz Alberto Oliveira , Isoldi Liércio André , Dos Santos Elizaldo Domingues
Published: October 2017

Este trabalho apresenta uma avaliação do desempenho de um dispositivo onshore de conversão de energia das ondas dos oceanos do tipo Coluna de Água Oscilante (Oscillating Water Column - OWC) em energia elétrica. O dispositivo é submetido à atuação de uma onda que é propagada ao longo de um canal com a presença do dispositivo OWC no final deste canal. As simulações numéricas consistiram na solução das equações de conservação de massa e quantidade de movimento para a mistura ar-água e uma equação de transporte para a fração volumétrica através do método de volumes finitos (MVF). A metodologia Constructal em associação com a busca exaustiva é aplicada a fim de determinarem-se as dimensões ótimas da razão entre a altura e comprimento da câmara hidropneumática do equipamento. Para tal, impõe-se uma restrição geométrica que fixa o valor da área da câmara em um valor constante. O objetivo do trabalho é avaliar a geometria que maximiza a potência do dispositivo para uma condição específica de onda, avaliar a influência do efeito entre altura e comprimento do dispositivo (H1/L1) sobre a potência disponível para dois diferentes valores de comprimento de borda frontal H3= 2,5 m e 5,0 m e verificar a existência ou não de uma geometria ótima universal. Verificou-se que a geometria ótima, a qual forneceu maior valor de potência hidropneumática, foi a geometria para o qual a razão H1/L1 = 0,4 e o comprimento H3 = 2,5 m. A condição de geometria ótima foi obtida para uma razão intermediária de H1/L1.Palavras-chave: Coluna de Água Oscilante, Avaliação Geométrica, Constructal Design.
The Hydroelectricity Consumption and Economic Growth Nexus: A Long Time Span Analysis
Authors: Koengkan Matheus
Published: October 2017

The objective of this article is analyze the nexus between hydroelectricity consumption and economic growth in seven Latin America countries in the period from 1966 to 2015, using an auto-regressive distributive lag (ARDL) with methodology. The results suggest the existence of feedback hypothesis in short-run, where the hydroelectricity consumption and economic growth are interrelated.
Management of Failed Rotator Cuff Repair in Young Patients
Authors: Elhassan Bassem T. , Cox Ryan M. , Shukla Dave R. , Lee Julia , Murthi Anand M. , Tashjian Robert Z. , Abboud Joseph A.
Published: October 2017

Management of failed rotator cuff repair may be difficult, especially in young patients. Various nonmodifiable and modifiable patient factors, including age, tendon quality, rotator cuff tear characteristics, acute or chronic rotator cuff tear, bone quality, tobacco use, and medications, affect rotator cuff repair healing. Surgical variables, such as the technique, timing, tension on the repair, the biomechanical construct, and fixation, as well as the postoperative rehabilitation strategy also affect rotator cuff repair healing. Variable outcomes have been reported in patients who undergo revision rotator cuff repair; however, a systematic surgical approach may increase the likelihood of a successful outcome. Numerous cellular and mechanical biologic augments, including platelet-rich plasma, platelet-rich fibrin matrix, mesenchymal stem cells, and acellular dermal matrix grafts, have been used in rotator cuff repair; however, conflicting or inconclusive outcomes have been reported in patients who undergo revision rotator cuff repair with the use of these augments. A variety of tendon transfer options, including latissimus dorsi, teres major, lower trapezius, pectoralis minor, pectoralis major, combined pectoralis major and latissimus dorsi, and combined latissimus dorsi and teres major, are available for the management of massive irreparable rotator cuff tears. Ultimately, the optimization of surgical techniques and the use of appropriate biologic/tendon transfer techniques, if indicated, is the best method for the management of failed rotator cuff repair.
Partial cystectomy for urothelial carcinoma of the bladder: Practice patterns and outcomes in the general population
Authors: Leveridge Michael J. , Siemens D. Robert , Izard Jason P. , Wei Xuejiao , Booth Christopher M.
Published: October 2017

Introduction: Partial cystectomy (PC) for urothelial carcinoma (UC) in selected patients may avoid the morbidity of radical cystectomy (RC). We describe use and outcomes of PC for UC in routine clinical practice.Methods: All patients with urothelial carcinoma of the bladder (UCB) undergoing PC or RC in Ontario from 1994‒2008 were identified using the Ontario Cancer Registry and linked electronic records. Pathology reports were reviewed. Variables associated with PC use were identified using logistic regression. Cox proportional hazards model identified factors affecting cancer-specific (CSS) and overall survival (OS).Results: A total of 3320 patients underwent PC (n=181; 5%) or RC (n=3139; 95%) from 1994‒2008. PC patients were older (36% 80+ years vs. 19%; p<0.001) and more likely to have organ-confined (&lh;pT3) disease (54% vs. 36% RC; p<0.001). Two-thirds (67%) of PC patients did not undergo lymph node dissection (24% for RC; p<0.001). Factors associated with having PC included older age (odds ratio [OR] 1.55; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.96‒2.51 for 70+ years), moderate comorbidity (OR 1.95; 95% CI 1.13‒3.37), and surgery outside of a comprehensive cancer centre (OR 1.44; 95% CI 1.03‒2.01). Unadjusted five-year OS for PC and RC cases was 34% and 33%, respectively (p=0.455); CSS at five years was 43% and 37% (p=0.045). On adjusted analysis, PC was associated with comparable CSS (hazard ratio [HR] 0.87, 95% CI 0.70‒1.09) and OS (HR 0.95, 95% CI 0.79‒1.14) as RC.Conclusions: In routine clinical practice, PC is not common. A substantial proportion of patients treated with PC achieve longterm survival. PC remains a treatment option in selected patients with UCB.
The Grey Clustering Analysis for Photovoltaic Equipment Importance Classification
Authors: LIU Hongjiu , ZHANG Qin
Published: October 2017

The evaluation of equipment importance is an important part of the operation and maintenance management and its purpose is to identify the key equipment which has important influence on the reliable operation of the power station. On the basis of grey clustering theory, the paper firstly establishes the analysis model of photovoltaic (pv) power station equipment importance and the weights of factors in the target hierarchy is solved by using the judgment matrix in analytic hierarchy process. Secondly, according to the whitenization weight function of the grey clustering, pv equipment is classified into three types: key equipment, vital equipment and general equipment, which lays the foundation for the equipment maintenance strategy choice. Finally, an application example verifies the practicality and scientificity of the proposed method.
Managing Tribalism within Nigeria’s Democratic Challenges
Authors: Oyedeji Babatunde
Published: October 2017

Tribalism is coined from ‘tribes’, an alternative word for ethnic or linguistic groups or in some countries ‘nation’ or ‘nationality’. Tribes supply a lot of Nigeria’s diversity providing traditional costumes, dress, music, dancing, indigenous language, arts, folklore, religion, all of which can constitute an asset to a people. It is naturally regarded as a small group, a human social organization defined by ‘traditions of common descent’ having temporary or permanent political integration above the family level with a shared language, culture or ideology. Encyclopedia Britannica asserts that tribe members ‘share a tribe name in a contiguous territory, and engage in joint endeavours such as trade, agriculture, house construction, warfare, economic and business activities and warfare. They often stay in small cluster-communities which can grow into large communities and even a nation. This paper attempts to critically examine the multiple play-outs of Nigeria’s many tribes and nationalities during and after colonialism, the intricate connection between tribalism and politics, leadership and the evolution of the Nigerian polity, the grievous harm as well as advantages of tribalism to Nigeria’s evolution. The tribe is always a major factor in the country and in its people. It ends with specific prognosis and a few recommendations.
Characterization of the Production and Dissemination Systems of Nile Tilapia in Some Coastal Communities in Ghana
Authors: Mireku K. K. , Kassam D. , Changadeya W. , Attipoe F. Y. K.
Published: October 2017

Aquaculture development has been identified as a key process to meeting the demand for cheap and readily available source of protein. The resultant has been the springing up of cages along the Volta Lake with most farmers producing Nile tilapia. However, the sector faces an array of challenges which needs urgent attention. A study was undertaken to ascertain the production systems and dissemination channel of Nile tilapia among farmers along selected coastal regions in Ghana. A survey of 190 farmers representing the fish farming community in the area was used -these comprised 187 males and 3 females. Pond culture and cage culture were the most common holding facilities used constituting 58.8% and 28.9% respectively. The production of all-male tilapia was popular among farmers and constituted 66.8% of production, while the production of mixed sex tilapia formed 25.8 %. The study revealed that the high prices of fish feed and lack of access to finance were the top ranking financial challenge facing fish farmers in the area corresponding to 73.2% and 51.1% of the response respectively. Other factors such as distance to hatchery and price of fingerling was a significant factor affecting the choice of source of fingerling for stocking (P<0.05) for farmers who used dugout ponds. There was no clearly laid down protocol for dissemination the tilapia. Farmers (16%) who undertook dissemination directly supplied fingerlings and broodstock to other farmers. Investment of capital into tilapia production can improve productivity and profitability.