bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Greenhouse Gas Balance of Native Forests in New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Ximenes Fabiano de Aquino , George Brendan H. , Cowie Annette , Williams Justin , Kelly Georgina
Published: August 2012

To quantify the climate change impacts of forestry and forest management options, we must consider the entire forestry system: the carbon dynamics of the forest, the life cycle of harvested wood products, and the substitution benefit of using biomass and wood products compared to more greenhouse gas intensive options. This paper presents modelled estimates of the greenhouse gas balance of two key native forest areas managed for production in New South Wales for a period of 200 years, and compares it to the option of managing for conservation only. These two case studies show that forests managed for production provide the greatest ongoing greenhouse gas benefits, with long-term carbon storage in products, and product substitution benefits critical to the outcome. Thus native forests could play a significant part in climate change mitigation, particularly when sustainably managed for production of wood and non-wood products including biomass for bioenergy. The potential role of production forestry in mitigating climate change, though substantial, has been largely overlooked in recent Australian climate change policy.
Molecular Tools for Exploring Polyploid Genomes in Plants
Authors: Aversano Riccardo , Ercolano Maria Raffaella , Caruso Immacolata , Fasano Carlo , Rosellini Daniele , Carputo Domenico
Published: August 2012

Polyploidy is a very common phenomenon in the plant kingdom, where even diploid species are often described as paleopolyploids. The polyploid condition may bring about several advantages compared to the diploid state. Polyploids often show phenotypes that are not present in their diploid progenitors or exceed the range of the contributing species. Some of these traits may play a role in heterosis or could favor adaptation to new ecological niches. Advances in genomics and sequencing technology may create unprecedented opportunities for discovering and monitoring the molecular effects of polyploidization. Through this review, we provide an overview of technologies and strategies that may allow an in-depth analysis of polyploid genomes. After introducing some basic aspects on the origin and genetics of polyploids, we highlight the main tools available for genome and gene expression analysis and summarize major findings. In the last part of this review, the implications of next generation sequencing are briefly discussed. The accumulation of knowledge on polyploid formation, maintenance, and divergence at whole-genome and subgenome levels will not only help plant biologists to understand how plants have evolved and diversified, but also assist plant breeders in designing new strategies for crop improvement.
3-(4-Fluorophenyl)-N-[4-(4-furan-2-yl-1-oxo-2,3,7-triazaspiro[4.5]dec-3-en-2-yl)phenyl]propionamide Hydrochloride
Authors: Srinivasan Rajagopalan , Narayana Badiadka , Samshuddin Seranthimata , Sarojini Balladka Kunhanna
Published: August 2012

A simple and novel route for the synthesis of new spirocyclic propionamide derivative is developed. The present work involves N-arylation of pyrazolone (1) using copper(I) iodide catalyst followed by reduction to give amine (2). The coupling of 2 with 3-(4-fluorophenyl)propionic acid and deprotection of Boc group yields the title compound (3).
Design of Higher-k and More Stable Rare Earth Oxides as Gate Dielectrics for Advanced CMOS Devices
Authors: Zhao Yi
Published: August 2012

High permittivity (k) gate dielectric films are widely studied to substitute SiO2 as gate oxides to suppress the unacceptable gate leakage current when the traditional SiO2 gate oxide becomes ultrathin. For high-k gate oxides, several material properties are dominantly important. The first one, undoubtedly, is permittivity. It has been well studied by many groups in terms of how to obtain a higher permittivity for popular high-k oxides, like HfO2 and La2O3. The second one is crystallization behavior. Although it’s still under the debate whether an amorphous film is definitely better than ploy-crystallized oxide film as a gate oxide upon considering the crystal boundaries induced leakage current, the crystallization behavior should be well understood for a high-k gate oxide because it could also, to some degree, determine the permittivity of the high-k oxide. Finally, some high-k gate oxides, especially rare earth oxides (like La2O3), are not stable in air and very hygroscopic, forming hydroxide. This topic has been well investigated in over the years and significant progresses have been achieved. In this paper, I will intensively review the most recent progresses of the experimental and theoretical studies for preparing higher-k and more stable, in terms of hygroscopic tolerance and crystallization behavior, Hf- and La-based ternary high-k gate oxides.
Experimental Alcohol-Related Peripheral Neuropathy: Role of Insulin/IGF Resistance
Authors: Nguyen Van Anh , Le Tran , Tong Ming , Mellion Michelle , Gilchrist James , De la Monte Suzanne M.
Published: August 2012

The mechanisms of alcohol-related peripheral neuropathy (ALPN) are poorly understood. We hypothesize that, like alcohol-related liver and brain degeneration, ALPN may be mediated by combined effects of insulin/IGF resistance and oxidative stress. Adult male Long Evans rats were chronically pair-fed with diets containing 0% or 37% ethanol (caloric), and subjected to nerve conduction studies. Chronic ethanol feeding slowed nerve conduction in the tibial (p = 0.0021) motor nerve, and not plantar sensory nerve, but it did not affect amplitude. Histological studies of the sciatic nerve revealed reduced nerve fiber diameters with increased regenerative sprouts, and denervation myopathy in ethanol-fed rats. qRT-PCR analysis demonstrated reduced mRNA levels of insulin, IGF-1, and IGF-2 polypeptides, IGF-1 receptor, and IRS2, and ELISAs revealed reduced immunoreactivity for insulin and IGF-1 receptors, IRS-1, IRS-4, myelin-associated glycoprotein, and tau in sciatic nerves of ethanol-fed rats (all p < 0.05 or better). The findings suggest that ALPN is characterized by (1) slowed conduction velocity with demyelination, and a small component of axonal degeneration; (2) impaired trophic factor signaling due to insulin and IGF resistance; and (3) degeneration of myelin and axonal cytoskeletal proteins. Therefore, ALPN is likely mediated by molecular and signal transduction abnormalities similar to those identified in alcoholic liver and brain degeneration.
A Review of Filovirus Work and Facilities at The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory Porton Down
Authors: Smither Sophie J. , Lever Mark S.
Published: August 2012

Porton Down houses two separate sites capable of conducting high containment research on ACDP (Advisory Committee on Dangerous Pathogens) Hazard Group 4 agents: the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) and the Health Protection Agency (HPA), and filovirus research has been performed at Porton Down since the first Marburg virus disease outbreak in 1967. All work is conducted within primary containment either within cabinet lines (for in vitro work) or large rigid half-suit isolators (for in vivo work). There are extensive aerobiological facilities at high containment and the use of these facilities will be reported. Research at Dstl is primarily focused on assessing and quantifying the hazard, and testing the efficacy of medical countermeasures against filoviruses. Fundamental research directed to the study and understanding of the infectious and pathogenic nature of the filoviruses, particularly in aerosols, will be reported.
Le détournement d'instruments de politiques publiques de développement rural au Chili au bénéfice de la production du Quinoa
Authors: Bazile Didier , Chia Eduardo , Hocdé Henri
Published: August 2012

Les politiques publiques en faveur du développement rural se matérialisent au travers d’instruments incitatifs, de règlements particuliers, ou encore par l’accompagnement des initiatives particulières. Ceux-ci répondent en général à la mise en place d’une stratégie nationale d’appui à une filière agricole. Dans le cas du quinoa cultivé au Chili, chaque région de production observe un développement propre. En s’appuyant sur le quinoa pour présenter les innovations, les porteurs de projets ont pu accéder à différents fonds des politiques publiques pour avancer vers des objectifs non affichés quitte à contourner, ou détourner les politiques publiques en leur faveur. Derrière ces projets élaborés autour du quinoa, les porteurs, dans chaque région, ont développé la capacité d’organiser des plates-formes régionales de discussion et de réflexion sur le développement local où le quinoa peut apparaître comme un des axes structurants d’un projet territorial pour le futur. Néanmoins, la réalité de la construction des innovations montre qu’il sera nécessaire de développer d’autres formes de coordination pour associer et faire participer la diversité des acteurs, puis les mobiliser pour une nouvelle gouvernance des territoires. JEL : Q18, Q58.
Que sont les principes du New Public Management devenus ?
Authors: Van Haeperen Béatrice
Published: August 2012

Il y a une trentaine d’années, au nom de l’efficacité et de l’efficience, les gouvernements de nombreux pays ont introduit dans la gestion de leurs services publics des principes inspirés du secteur privé. C’est l’essence du New Public Management, qui s’est diffusé en modifiant à des degrés divers les structures et le fonctionnement des administrations publiques. C’est avec l’évolution des principes du NPM en toile de fond que nous observons les changements intervenus dans l’administration wallonne au cours des quinze dernières années, avec une attention particulière pour le phénomène d’agencification.
Using conversions and treatments to understand students’ engagement with problems based on the normal distribution curve
Authors: Bansilal Sarah
Published: August 2012

Including probability and statistics in the core curriculum of mathematics in South African schools has made it necessary to train teachers to teach statistics at high school level. This study concentrates on practising mathematics teachers who were students in an in-service programme. The purpose of the study was to investigate students’ success rates on different questions of a multi-part task based on the normal distribution curve. The theory that I used to understand the students’ difficulties is Duval’s theory about movement within and between semiotic representation systems, called treatment transformations and conversion transformations respectively. The first two parts of the problem were unknown percentage problems and involved a treatment followed by a conversion. The third was an unknown value problem and required a conversion before the students could undertake a treatment transformation. The findings reveal that the success rates the students achieved in treatment transformations were higher than those they achieved in conversion transformations. The study also revealed that the direction of the conversions played a role in success rates. Recognising the different challenges the two types of transformations pose requires that teachers pay particular attention to actions that involve movement between different representation systems.
Les applications conforme-harmoniques
Authors: Bérard Vincent
Published: August 2012

Sur une surface de Riemann, l'énergie d'une application à valeurs dans une variété riemannienne est une fonctionnelle invariante conforme, ses points critiques sont les applications harmoniques. Nous proposons ici un analogue en dimension supérieure, en construisant une fonctionnelle invariante conforme pour les applications entre deux variétés riemanniennes, dont la variété de départ est de dimension n paire. Ses points critiques satisfont une EDP elliptique d'ordre n non-linéaire qui est covariante conforme par rapport à la variété de départ, on les appelle les applications conformeharmoniques. Dans le cas des fonctions, on retrouve l'opérateur GJMS, dont le terme principal est une puissance n/2 du laplacien. Quand n est impaire, les mêmes idées permettent de montrer que le terme constant dans le développement asymptotique de l'énergie d'une application asymptotiquement harmonique sur une variété AHE est indépendant du choix du représentant de l'infini conforme.
Gestão de pessoas em um Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia
Authors: Jacobsen Alessandra de Linhares , Cerqueira Raquel Lilian Barbi de , Liotto Melissa , Almeida Simone Marques de , Pereira Mércia , Silva Jose Marcos da
Published: August 2012

A área de administração de pessoas vem evoluindo desde 1900, passando pela criação de legislação trabalhista, departamento de pessoal, sistemas de recursos humanos, até o que hoje chamamos de Gestão de Pessoas. Assim, este estudo busca conhecer as políticas de gestão de pessoas na administração acadêmica e administrativa de um Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia, identificando as políticas de gestão utilizadas pelo governo federal voltadas para a administração de pessoas e a legislação aplicada ao Instituto. A metodologia adotada é de natureza bibliográfica, qualitativa-descritiva, com os dados coletados mediante a realização de uma pesquisa de campo do tipo aplicada e entrevista semiestruturada. Como resultados, são identificadas oportunidades de melhorias nas políticas de gestão de pessoas em um Instituto, considerando as políticas públicas do governo federal.
Pesquisa na graduação de administração: mediação necessária ao processo ensino-aprendizagem
Authors: Tassigny Mônica Mota , Brasil Marcus Vinicius de Oliveira
Published: August 2012

A pesquisa é um processo legítimo de construção do conhecimento e a sala de aula pode e dever ser um espaço propício a essa construção. O presente artigo, resultado de pesquisa bibliográfica, documental e da experiência prática na docência no ensino superior, tem por objetivo debater a importância da pesquisa na graduação de Administração.  Nesta direção, conceitua-se a ciência como campo particular do conhecimento humano, a pesquisa como instrumento imprescindível na produção da mesma e, principalmente, como práxis formativa, portanto, elege-se a pesquisa e suas possibilidades como fundamento do processo ensino-aprendizagem de alunos do curso de Administração. Tendo o objetivo de despertar no aluno o gosto pelo conhecimento, motivação para aprender e, sobretudo, a paixão pela pesquisa que, como lembra Cecília Minayo (1994), consiste numa combinação harmoniosa de teoria, método e criatividade que produzem conhecimento e nos garante prosseguir na tarefa dinâmica de tentar compreender a realidade e desvendar seus mistérios. Nesta perspectiva, procura-se aproveitar as inúmeras possibilidades que a sala de aula oferece como local de encontro, de exposição de dúvidas, de confronto de idéias e de estabelecimento de relações. Deste modo, este artigo apresentou alguns recortes ou fragmentos destas experiências vivenciadas com a pesquisa.
A relação de valores de potenciais consumidores de cursos de graduação
Authors: De Benedicto Samuel Carvalho , Silva Aline Michelli Penido da , Boas Luiz Henrique de Barros Vilas , Silva Filho Cândido Ferreira da
Published: August 2012

Atualmente as Instituições de Ensino Superior (IES) enfrentam grande competitividade, por isso, buscam um novo posicionamento no mercado. A compreensão do perfil do consumidor permite o desenvolvimento de estratégias de posicionamento para novos produtos/serviços. Para tanto, é necessário compreender as variáveis que precisam ser aperfeiçoadas a fim de melhorar a imagem corporativa da organização e a satisfação dos ingressantes e dos alunos com os serviços educacionais oferecidos. Esta pesquisa teve como objetivo identificar a relação de valores de potenciais consumidores de cursos de graduação, quando da escolha de uma IES. Foram realizadas entrevistas em profundidade utilizando a técnica qualitativa laddering, que faz uso dos pressupostos teóricos da cadeia de meios e fins. Foi construído um Mapa Hierárquico de Valor (MHV), o qual permite identificar as cadeias dominantes que influenciam o comportamento do consumidor em sua decisão de compra. Os resultados mostram a preocupação dos consumidores com IES que apresentem um conjunto de atributos essenciais que lhes permitam um lugar no mercado de trabalho e alcançar uma gama de aspirações pessoais. Os clientes/consumidores pesquisados almejam IES que tenham: reconhecimento da sociedade; professores qualificados; ensino de qualidade; aulas práticas em laboratórios especializados. Tais atributos levam a diversas conseqüências desejáveis aos consumidores dos serviços educacionais no ensino superior: a ampliação do conhecimento do estudante; o aumento das chances de conseguir um emprego; a segurança no exercício da profissão; a conquista da tão sonhada independência financeira. Tais atributos e conseqüências se encontram ligados a diversos valores, tais como: prazer, segurança, realização pessoal, felicidade, solidariedade e independência/liberdade.
Tratamento, respeito, direitos e sensibilidade: o fenômeno ‘justiça organizacional’ no contexto universitário sob a perspectiva de docentes-gestores
Authors: Kanan Lilia Aparecida , Zanelli José Carlos
Published: August 2012

Caracterizar a justiça organizacional sob a perspectiva de docentes-gestores de universidades de Santa Catarina/Brasil constituiu objetivo desse artigo. A pesquisa, de caráter qualitativo com enfoque exploratório e descritivo, contou com a participação de docentes-gestores de universidades de Santa Catarina. Nos resultados, o que prevalece nas manifestações dos participantes é a percepção de injustiça organizacional, pois necessidade, igualdade ou eqüidade não constituem ou pouco constituem critérios para a determinação da distribuição de recursos ou recompensas, dos benefícios, das gratificações e das oportunidades de desenvolvimento e capacitação profissional, uma vez que subjetividade, conveniências, favorecimentos, interesses pessoais e privilégios prevalecem no processo distributivo de muitas universidades. Os meios utilizados pela chefia para atingir os resultados são percebidos como justos pela maioria dos docentes-gestores; todavia, as etapas anteriores à distribuição dos recursos e das recompensas e a maneira como se processa a decisão não gozam da mesma avaliação. Sobre justiça interacional-social os participantes evidenciam o respeito no tratamento dispensado pelas chefias; entretanto, poucos percebem sensibilidade de parte das mesmas aos seus problemas pessoais. Há prevalência de percepções de injustiça interacional-informacional, vez que o sistema defeedback, a transmissão, explicação e justificativas para as decisões tomadas pelas chefias ou não ocorrem ou são comprometidos.
Planejamento estratégico em universidades: inovação em administração pública através de novos modelos gerenciais baseados em sistemas de informação
Authors: Amorim Joni de Almeida , Schimiguel Juliano
Published: August 2012

Hoje se percebe uma necessidade de melhoria do planejamento estratégico das universidades, em especial pela necessidade de que se tenha como foco a crescente competição entre as Universidades de Classe Mundial, pelos recursos e pelas posições nos mais variados rankings nacionais e internacionais hoje existentes. Nesta perspectiva, este texto tem como objetivo discutir o planejamento estratégico universitário considerando o caso especial da UNICAMP, hoje vista como uma das melhores universidades brasileiras. O texto apresenta uma visão geral da temática, apresenta o caso da UNICAMP e do seu sistema de informação em uso, apresenta as necessidades de um novo modelo gerencial e, por fim, propõe um novo modelo que busca abarcar as características hoje vistas como essenciais em sistemas voltados ao planejamento estratégico. O texto também discute tendências futuras que tendem a afetar a realidade das Universidades de Classe Mundial no tocante a sistemas de informação voltados ao planejamento estratégico.
Relevância da estratégia de coopetição para as IES: o posicionamento do Centro Universitário Católico de Santa Catarina
Authors: Gaio Jorge , Duclós Luiz Carlos , Amaral Hélio Gilberto
Published: August 2012

A concorrência das corporações educacionais internacionais tem ampliado a atuação no cenário nacional e em mercados regionais, como no caso do Estado de Santa Catarina, pressionando as IES de pequeno e médio porte a estabelecerem estratégias de competição, de cooperação e de coopetição. O objetivo deste position paper é apresentar de maneira estruturada as estratégias de excelência dos serviços prestados (KANO, 1984) e as estratégias de coopertição (BRANDENBURGER E NALEBUFF, 1996; DAGNINO E PAULO, 2002) utilizadas pelo Centro Universitário Católico de Santa Catarina, desde 2009, por ocasião da entrada no mercado de Joinville. A revisão da literatura contemplou as principais estratégias de competição, cooperação, coopetição e a matriz de Kano (1984). Foram apresentadas as estratégias mais relevantes decorrentes do modelo de Kano (1984) e as estratégias de coopetição utilizadas pelo Centro Universitário Católico de Santa Catarina. Os resultados obtidos nesta pesquisa sinalizam que o posicionamento estratégico visa a coopetição entre os atores do ensino superior da região, apesar de apresentar um conjunto de estratégias diferenciadas desta tendência, em seu posicionamento de entrada inicial.
A extensão universitária através do projeto RONDON: participação das universidades públicas de Mato Grosso
Authors: Rieder Arno
Published: August 2012

A extensão universitária é uma finalidade das Universidades. A sua prática vem sendo propiciada por vários meios e programas. No final da década de 1960 foi concebido um modelo de atuação extensionista denominada de Projeto Rondon. Atualmente se tem numa segunda fase, de retomada, depois de a primeira ter sido extinta em 1989. Tem sido empolgante e positivamente impactante aos participantes a oportunidade propiciada pelo Projeto Rondon para o exercício da extensão universitária. Objetiva-se revelar impressões de participantes e considerações sobre o envolvimento das duas universidades públicas de Mato Grosso nas duas fases do Projeto Rondon. O estudo baseia-se em três referenciais: fontes bibliográficas, depoimentos(entrevistas semi-abertas) de participantes resgatando experiências e impressões da memória de rondonistas. Constata-se que a Universidade Federal do Mato Grosso(UFMT) participou em Operações do Projeto Rondon na primeira e na segunda fase, enquanto a Universidade do Estado de Mato Grosso(UNEMAT) apenas nesta última, já que esta não existia na primeira fase. Os rondonistas consideram que as universidades deveriam intensificar seu envolvimento nestas operações e que a importância destas atuações é de imensurável valor para os propósitos da extensão universitária, deixando benefícios preciosos não só para as comunidades, mas também para os universitários e as universidades.
El proceso de planificación estratégica en las universidades: desencuentros y retos para el mejoramiento de su calidad
Authors: Rivero José Luis Almuiñas , López Judith Galarza
Published: August 2012

En este artículo se presentan, inicialmente, algunos elementos teóricos-conceptuales relacionados con la dirección estratégica en el contexto universitario, haciéndose énfasis en uno de sus componentes principales: la planificación estratégica y el proceso que la sustenta. Posteriormente, se argumenta la necesidad de evaluar dicho proceso, como una vía para el mejoramiento de su calidad. El artículo tiene como objetivo identificar los principales problemas que están afectando la calidad del proceso de planificación estratégica en las universidades, así como proponer algunas direcciones de trabajo para su perfeccionamiento. Se han tomado como referencias diversas fuentes de información (asesorías, análisis documental y estudios empíricos desarrollados en varias universidades). Los resultados del análisis ponen en evidencia la presencia de diferentes tipos de problemas: conceptuales, metodológicos y técnicos, organizativos, culturales, entre otros. Como conclusión principal se señalan la importancia de realizar este tipo de evaluación en las universidades, con vistas a detectar a tiempo señales de aviso, que indiquen la presencia de insuficiencias y nuevas fortalezas existentes no descubiertas, para mantener en alto la calidad de dicho proceso y por tanto, mejorar la gestión institucional.
Humidity-dependent phase state of SOA particles from biogenic and anthropogenic precursors
Authors: Saukko E. , Lambe A. T. , Massoli P. , Koop T. , Wright J. P. , Croasdale D. R. , Pedernera D. A. , Onasch T. B. , Laaksonen A. , Davidovits P. , Worsnop D. R. , Virtanen A.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. The physical phase state (solid, semi-solid, or liquid) of secondary organic aerosol (SOA) particles has important implications for a number of atmospheric processes. We report the phase state of SOA particles spanning a wide range of oxygen to carbon ratios (O / C), used here as a surrogate for SOA oxidation level, produced in a flow tube reactor by photo-oxidation of various atmospherically relevant surrogate anthropogenic and biogenic volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The phase state of laboratory-generated SOA was determined by the particle bounce behavior after inertial impaction on a polished steel substrate. The measured bounce fraction was evaluated as a function of relative humidity and SOA oxidation level (O / C) measured by an Aerodyne high resolution time of flight aerosol mass spectrometer (HR-ToF AMS). The main findings of the study are: (1) biogenic and anthropogenic SOA particles are found to be amorphous solid or semi-solid based on the measured bounced fraction (BF), which was typically higher than 0.6 on a 0 to 1 scale. A decrease in the BF is observed for most systems after the SOA is exposed to relative humidity of at least 80% RH, corresponding to a RH at impaction of 55%. (2) Long-chain alkanes have a low BF (indicating a "liquid-like", less viscous phase) particles at low oxidation levels (BF < 0.2 ± 0.05 for O / C = 0.1). However, BF increases substantially upon increasing oxidation. (3) Increasing the concentration of sulphuric acid (H2SO4) in solid SOA particles (here tested for longifolene SOA) causes a decrease in BF levels. (4) In the majority of cases the bounce behavior of the various SOA systems did not show correlation with the particle O / C. Rather, the molar mass of the gas-phase VOC precursor showed a positive correlation with the resistance to the RH-induced phase change of the formed SOA particles.
Sea-spray geoengineering in the HadGEM2-ES Earth-system model: radiative impact and climate response
Authors: Jones A. , Haywood J. M.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. The radiative impact and climate effects of geoengineering using sea-spray aerosols have been investigated in the HadGEM2-ES Earth system model using a fully prognostic treatment of the sea-spray aerosols and also including their direct raditive effect. Two different emission patterns were considered, one to maximise the direct effect in clear skies, the other to maximise the indirect effects of the sea-spray on low clouds; in both cases the emissions were limited to 10% of the ocean area. While the direct effect was found to be significant, the indirect effects on clouds were much more effective in reducing global mean temperature. Moreover, the impact on global mean precipitation per unit temperature reduction was found to be greatest when the emission pattern for maximising the direct effect was used, suggesting that targeting the direct effect of sea-spray is not a good strategy. The impact on the distribution of precipitation was found to be similar in character, but less in degree, than that simulated by a previous study using a much simpler treatment of this geoengineering process.
Intercomparison of desert dust optical depth from satellite measurements
Authors: Carboni E. , Thomas G. E. , Sayer A. M. , Siddans R. , Poulsen C. A. , Grainger R. G. , Ahn C. , Antoine D. , Bevan S. , Braak R. , Brindley H. , DeSouza-Machado S. , Deuzé J. L. , Diner D. , Ducos F. , Grey W. , Hsu C. , Kalashnikova O. V. , Kahn R. , North P. R. J. , Salustro C. , Smith A. , Tanré D. , Torres O. , Veihelmann B.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. This work provides a comparison of satellite retrievals of Saharan desert dust aerosol optical depth (AOD) during a strong dust event through March 2006. In this event, a large dust plume was transported over desert, vegetated, and ocean surfaces. The aim is to identify the differences between current datasets. The satellite instruments considered are AATSR, AIRS, MERIS, MISR, MODIS, OMI, POLDER, and SEVIRI. An interesting aspect is that the different algorithms make use of different instrument characteristics to obtain retrievals over bright surfaces. These include multi-angle approaches (MISR, AATSR), polarisation measurements (POLDER), single-view approaches using solar wavelengths (OMI, MODIS), and the thermal infrared spectral region (SEVIRI, AIRS). Differences between instruments, together with the comparison of different retrieval algorithms applied to measurements from the same instrument, provide a unique insight into the performance and characteristics of the various techniques employed. As well as the intercomparison between different satellite products, the AODs have also been compared to co-located AERONET data. Despite the fact that the agreement between satellite and AERONET AODs is reasonably good for all of the datasets, there are significant differences between them when compared to each other, especially over land. These differences are partially due to differences in the algorithms, such as assumptions about aerosol model and surface properties. However, in this comparison of spatially and temporally averaged data, it is important to note that differences in sampling, related to the actual footprint of each instrument on the heterogeneous aerosol field, cloud identification and the quality control flags of each dataset can be an important issue.
Underlying mechanisms of transient luminous events: a review
Authors: Surkov V. V. , Hayakawa M.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. Transient luminous events (TLEs) occasionally observed above a strong thunderstorm system have been the subject of a great deal of research during recent years. The main goal of this review is to introduce readers to recent theories of electrodynamics processes associated with TLEs. We examine the simplest versions of these theories in order to make their physics as transparent as possible. The study is begun with the conventional mechanism for air breakdown at stratospheric and mesospheric altitudes. An electron impact ionization and dissociative attachment to neutrals are discussed. A streamer size and mobility of electrons as a function of altitude in the atmosphere are estimated on the basis of similarity law. An alternative mechanism of air breakdown, runaway electron mechanism, is discussed. In this section we focus on a runaway breakdown field, characteristic length to increase avalanche of runaway electrons and on the role played by fast seed electrons in generation of the runaway breakdown. An effect of thunderclouds charge distribution on initiation of blue jets and gigantic jets is examined. A model in which the blue jet is treated as upward-propagating positive leader with a streamer zone/corona on the top is discussed. Sprite models based on streamer-like mechanism of air breakdown in the presence of atmospheric conductivity are reviewed. To analyze conditions for sprite generation, thunderstorm electric field arising just after positive cloud-to-ground stroke is compared with the thresholds for propagation of positively/negatively charged streamers and with runway breakdown. Our own estimate of tendril's length at the bottom of sprite is obtained to demonstrate that the runaway breakdown can trigger the streamer formation. In conclusion we discuss physical mechanisms of VLF (very low frequency) and ELF (extremely low frequency) phenomena associated with sprites.
Simulation study of the large-scale modification of the mid-latitude F-layer by HF radio waves with different powers
Authors: Mingaleva G. I. , Mingalev V. S. , Mingalev O. V.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. A mathematical model of the ionosphere, developed earlier, is applied to investigate the large-scale mid-latitude F-layer modification by HF radio waves with different powers. Simulations are performed for the point with geographic coordinates of the "Sura" heating facility (Nizhny Novgorod, Russia) for autumn conditions. The calculations are made for distinct cases, in which the effective absorbed power has different values belonging to the 5–100 MW range, both for nocturnal and daytime conditions. The frequency of powerful HF waves is chosen to be close to the most effective frequency for the large-scale F2-layer modification. The results of modeling indicate that the effective absorbed power can influence considerably the F-layer response to high-power radio waves in the mid-latitude ionosphere.
Environmental change impacts on the C- and N-cycle of European forests: a model comparison study
Authors: Cameron D. R. , Van Oijen M. , Werner C. , Butterbach-Bahl K. , Haas E. , Heuvelink G. B. M. , Grote R. , Kiese R. , Kuhnert M. , Kros J. , Leip A. , Reinds G. J. , Reuter H. I. , Schelhaas M. J. , De Vries W. , Yeluripati J.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. Forests are important components of the greenhouse gas balance of Europe. There is considerable uncertainty about how predicted changes to climate and nitrogen deposition will perturb the carbon and nitrogen cycles of European forests and thereby alter forest growth, carbon sequestration and N2O emission. The present study aimed to quantify the carbon and nitrogen balance, including the exchange of greenhouse gases, of European forests over the period 2010–2030, with a particular emphasis on the spatial variability of change. The analysis was carried out for two tree species: European beech and Scots pine. For this purpose, four different dynamic models were used: BASFOR, DailyDayCent, INTEGRATOR and Landscape-DNDC. These models span a range from semi-empirical to complex mechanistic. Comparison of these models allowed assessment of the extent to which model predictions depended on differences in model inputs and structure. We found a European average carbon sink of 0.160 ± 0.020 kgC m−2 yr−1 (pine) and 0.138 ± 0.062 kgC m−2 yr−1 (beech) and N2O source of 0.285 ± 0.125 kgN ha−1 yr−1 (pine) and 0.575 ± 0.105 kgN ha−1 yr−1 (beech). The European average greenhouse gas potential of the carbon source was 18 (pine) and 8 (beech) times that of the N2O source. Carbon sequestration was larger in the trees than in the soil. Carbon sequestration and forest growth were largest in central Europe and lowest in northern Sweden and Finland, N. Poland and S. Spain. No single driver was found to dominate change across Europe. Forests were found to be most sensitive to change in environmental drivers where the drivers were limiting growth, where changes were particularly large or where changes acted in concert. The models disagreed as to which environmental changes were most significant for the geographical variation in forest growth and as to which tree species showed the largest rate of carbon sequestration. Pine and beech forests were found to have differing sensitivities to environmental change, in particular the response to changes in nitrogen and precipitation, with beech forest more vulnerable to drought. There was considerable uncertainty about the geographical location of N2O emissions. Two of the models BASFOR and LandscapeDNDC had largest emissions in central Europe where nitrogen deposition and soil nitrogen were largest whereas the two other models identified different regions with large N2O emission. N2O emissions were found to be larger from beech than pine forests and were found to be particularly sensitive to forest growth.
Modelling water quality in drinking water distribution networks from real-time direction data
Authors: Nazarovs S. , Dejus S. , Juhna T.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. Modelling of contamination spread and location of a contamination source in a water distribution network is an important task. There are several simulation tools developed, however the significant part of them is based on hydraulic models that need node demands as input data that sometimes may result in false negative results and put users at risk. The paper considers applicability of a real-time flow direction data based model for contaminant transport in a distribution network of a city and evaluates the optimal number of flow direction sensors. Simulation data suggest that the model is applicable for the distribution network of the city of Riga and that the optimal number of sensors in this case is around 200.
Sea ice draft in the Weddell Sea, measured by upward looking sonars
Authors: Behrendt A. , Dierking W. , Fahrbach E. , Witte H.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. The presented database contains time-referenced sea ice draft values from upward looking sonar (ULS) measurements in the Weddell Sea, Antarctica. The sea ice draft data can be used to infer the thickness of the ice. They were collected during the period 1990–2008. In total, the database includes measurements from 13 locations in the Weddell Sea and was generated from more than 3.7 million measurements of sea ice draft. The files contain uncorrected raw drafts, corrected drafts from two different methods and the basic parameters measured by the ULS. The measurement principle, the data processing procedure and the quality control are described in detail. To account for the unknown speed of sound in the water column above the ULS, two correction methods were applied to the data. The first method is based on defining a reference level from the identification of open water leads. The second method uses a model of sound speed in the oceanic mixed layer and is applied to ice draft in austral winter. Both methods are discussed and their accuracy is estimated. Finally, selected results of the processing are presented. The data can be downloaded under http://doi.pangaea.de/10.1594/PANGAEA.785565.
Influence of high-latitude geomagnetic pulsations on recordings of broadband force-balanced seismic sensors
Authors: Kozlovskaya E. , Kozlovsky A.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. Seismic broadband sensors with electromagnetic feedback are sensitive to variations of surrounding magnetic field, including variations of geomagnetic field. Usually, the influence of the geomagnetic field on recordings of such seismometers is ignored. It might be justified for seismic observations at middle and low latitudes. The problem is of high importance, however, for observations in Polar Regions (above 60° geomagnetic latitude), where magnitudes of natural magnetic disturbances may be two or even three orders larger. In our study we investigate the effect of ultra-low frequency (ULF) magnetic disturbances, known as geomagnetic pulsations, on the STS-2 seismic broadband sensors. The pulsations have their sources and, respectively, maximal amplitudes in the region of the auroral ovals, which surround the magnetic poles in both hemispheres at geomagnetic latitude (GMLAT) between 60° and 80°. To investigate sensitivity of the STS-2 seismometer to geomagnetic pulsations, we compared the recordings of permanent seismic stations in northern Finland to the data of the magnetometers of the IMAGE network located in the same area. Our results show that temporary variations of magnetic field with periods of 40–150 s corresponding to regular Pc4 and irregular Pi2 pulsations are seen very well in recordings of the STS-2 seismometers. Therefore, these pulsations may create a serious problem for interpretation of seismic observations in the vicinity of the auroral oval. Moreover, the shape of Pi2 magnetic disturbances and their periods resemble the waveforms of glacial seismic events reported originally by Ekström (2003). The problem may be treated, however, if combined analysis of recordings of co-located seismic and magnetic instruments is used.
Assessing residual hydropower potential of the La Plata Basin accounting for future user demands
Authors: Popescu I. , Brandimarte L. , Perera M. S. U. , Peviani M.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. La Plata Basin is shared by five countries (Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay), which have fast growing economies in South America. These countries need energy for their sustainable development; hence, hydropower can play a very important role as a renewable clean source of energy. This paper presents an analysis of the current hydropower production and electricity demand in La Plata Basin (LPB), and it analyses the maximum and residual hydropower potential of the basin for a horizon of 30 yr (i.e. year 2040). Current hydropower production is estimated based on historical available data, while future energy production is deduced from the available water in the catchment (estimated based on measured hydrographs of the past years), whereas electricity demand is assessed by correlating existing electricity demand with the estimated population growth and economic development. The maximum and residual hydropower potential of the basin were assessed for the mean annual flows of the present hydrological regime (1970–2000) and topographical characteristics of the area. Computations were performed using an integrated GIS environment called VAPIDRO-ASTE released by the Research on Energy System (Italy). The residual hydropower potential of the basin is computed considering first that the water supply needs for population, industry and agriculture are served, and then hydropower energy is produced. The calculated hydropower production is found to be approximately half of the estimated electricity demand, which shows that there is a need to look for other sources of energy in the future.
Three-dimensional modelling of wave-induced current from the surf zone to the inner shelf
Authors: Michaud H. , Marsaleix P. , Leredde Y. , Estournel C. , Bourrin F. , Lyard F. , Mayet C. , Ardhuin F.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. We develop and implement a new method to take into account the impact of waves into the 3-D circulation model SYMPHONIE (Marsaleix et al., 2008, 2009a) following the simplified equations of Bennis et al. (2011) which use glm2z-RANS theory (Ardhuin et al., 2008c). These adiabatic equations are completed by additional parameterizations of wave breaking, bottom friction and wave-enhanced vertical mixing, making the forcing valid from the surf zone through to the open ocean. The wave forcing is performed by wave generation and propagation models WAVEWATCH III® (Tolman, 2008, 2009; Ardhuin et al., 2010) and SWAN (Booij et al., 1999). The model is tested and compared with other models for a plane beach test case, previously tested by Haas and Warner (2009)and Uchiyama et al. (2010). A comparison is also made with the laboratory measurements of Haller et al. (2002) of a barred beach with channels. Results fit with previous simulations performed by other models and with available observational data. Finally, a realistic case is simulated with energetic waves travelling over a coast of the Gulf of Lion (in the northwest of the Mediterranean Sea) for which currents are available at different depths as well as an accurate bathymetric database of the 0–10 m depth range. A grid nesting approach is used to account for the different forcings acting at different spatial scales. The simulation coupling the effects of waves and currents is successful to reproduce the powerful northward littoral drift in the 0–15 m depth zone. More precisely, two distinct cases are identified: When waves have a normal angle of incidence with the coast, they are responsible for complex circulation cells and rip currents in the surf zone, and when they travel obliquely, they generate a northward littoral drift. These features are more complicated than in the test cases, due to the complex bathymetry and the consideration of wind and non-stationary processes. Wave impacts in the inner shelf are less visible since wind and regional circulation seem to be the predominant forcings. Besides, a discrepancy between model and observations is noted at that scale, possibly linked to an underestimation of the wind stress. This three-dimensional method allows a good representation of vertical current profiles and permits the calculation of the shear stress associated with waves and currents. Future work will focus on the combination with a sediment transport model.
BCIA Certification Exams—A New Look at This Standard
Authors: Shaffer Fred , Crawford Judy
Published: August 2012

For the Biofeedback Certification International Alliance (BCIA), assessment is the culmination of a learning process that begins with didactic training that is guided by Blueprints of Knowledge and Core Reading Lists. The references in the BCIA Core Reading Lists help applicants master the learning objectives of the Blueprint and are the source of the exam questions. BCIA certification exams test entry-level knowledge that is relevant to the current practice of biofeedback. Applicants can now take exams in both paper/pencil and online formats. BCIA encourages applicants to use the Blueprints as roadmaps to guide their study, to read the Core references, and to take advantage of their mentors' experience. The quality of the applicants, the excellence of didactic programs, and the careful construction of the exams have resulted in pass rates that exceed 70%. BCIA believes that the applicant's journey, not passing the certification exam, is the best metric for measuring success. BCIA has achieved its mission in the time before the professionals arrive at their testing site.
Habilitating a Smile
Authors: Bolek Jeffrey E.
Published: August 2012

The treatment of muscle dysfunction in the muscles around the face is particularly challenging. In addition to being the most observable muscles in the body, the limited area with which to work, the high firing rate, and the increased risk of picking up crosstalk from muscles in close proximity all add to the challenge. This case report describes the treatment of a young child with seventh cranial nerve palsy of the face.
Reporting on Dynamic SEMG Evaluation of the Cervical Musculature
Authors: Sella Gabriel E.
Published: August 2012

It is regular practice for a clinical investigator to report the findings of any pertinent test. SEMG endeavors to investigate several aspects of skeletal muscular dysfunction. Dynamic SEMG evaluation reporting of the cervical musculature range of motion is the subject of this report. The report content and format is in line with the Daubert Rule of Evidence (Federal Rule 702). The format of the report allows the clinician to present the data in a manner that allows readily for court testimony or other presentation of objective evidence.
The Glazer Intrapelvic Surface Electromyography (SEMG) Protocol in a Case of Male Urinary Incontinence and a Case of Female Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder
Authors: Hacad Claudia R. , Glazer Howard I.
Published: August 2012

This paper presents two cases of the clinical application of a valid and reliable method of pelvic floor muscle evaluation (Glazer Protocol) using a computerized surface electromyography (SEMG) device. The authors present a male patient with urinary incontinence post–radical retropubic prostatectomy (RRP) and a female patient with hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) and primary dyspareunia. Radical retropubic prostatectomy is a surgical removal of the prostate through the abdomen. Dyspareunia refers to painful sexual intercourse. Intrapelvic SEMG evaluations were conducted before and after pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) with biofeedback. Intrapelvic sensors were used with a fixed sequence of voluntary pelvic floor activities and continuous real-time recorded SEMG measures to determine electrophysiological abnormalities and their potential role in the symptomatic presentation. This analysis lead to the development of an individualized pelvic floor muscle SEMG biofeedback program for each patient, aimed at symptomatic relief and functional restoration.