bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Involving the End-Users in the Development of Language Learning Material
Authors: Seisto Anu , Federley Maija , Kuula Timo , Paavilainen Janne , Vihavainen Sami
Published: April 2014

Printed and digital learning materials are usually developed separately. Therefore, little notice has been given to the possibilities of combining the two. This study introduces a new concept that combines printed and digital materials. A user-centric approach was chosen to develop a “hybrid book”, a combination of a traditional schoolbook and a mobile phone. Learning materials were combined into one entity by enabling access to the digital material through images in the book. The user groups of interest were 11- and 12-year-old pupils, their teachers, and parents. The concept was tested with materials for English as a foreign language (EFL). After a human-centred design process, the final application was given to one class for actual use and evaluation for a period of three weeks. Many potential benefits of using mobile phones for learning purposes were recognized, as they facilitated utilization of the digital content both inside and outside the classroom.
Identifying the Potential of Mobile Phone Cameras in Science Teaching and Learning
Authors: Ekanayake Sakunthala , Wishart Jocelyn
Published: April 2014

This research was motivated by previous work using mobile phones to support science teaching and learning in a variety of ways. This paper explores in detail how mobile phone cameras can support science teaching and learning during the planning, implementing, and evaluation stages of a lesson. A case study of a science lesson carried out in a school in Sri Lanka is described. The methodological approach of this study is qualitative and data were collected using observations, informal interviews and field notes. The results show that mobile phone cameras support the teacher in a range of ways during lesson planning, lesson implementation, and evaluating learning. Furthermore, the camera function of mobile phones was reported by teachers and students as enhancing the effectiveness of student learning, providing more opportunities for students’ active participation, increasing interactions and collaborative learning opportunities.
Exploring the Challenges of Supporting Collaborative Mobile Learning
Authors: Nouri Jalal , Cerratto-Pargman Teresa , Eliasson Johan , Ramberg Robert
Published: April 2014

Mobile technology opens up opportunities for collaborative learning in otherwise remote contexts outside the classroom. A successful realization of these opportunities relies, however, on mobile learning activities providing adequate collaboration structures. This article presents an empirical study aimed at examining the role played by mobile devices, teachers and task structures as a means for collaborative learning in geometry. The study focused on the analysis of the nature of collaboration that unfolded when students measured areas outdoors in the field. The analysis of the mobile learning activity was conducted from an Activity theory perspective. The findings obtained indicate that the collaboration observed may be impaired if: 1) the functionalities needed for collaborative problem-solving are asymmetrically distributed on a number of mobile devices; 2) task-related information is not accessible to all learners; 3) the task structure is not sufficiently complex; 4) teacher scaffolding is too readily available; and 5) necessary collaborative skills are not developed.
Rolling Prevention Mechanism for Underground Pipe Erosion Inspection Robot with a Real Time Vision System
Authors: Tang Liqiong , Bailey Donald , Jones Matthieu
Published: April 2014

Pipe inspection is one of the areas that have attracted high research interest for robot applications especially in oil and chemical industry and civil engineering. Robot body rolling while it travels within a pipe has been a problem for accurately collecting inspection data. Under certain circumstances where vision systems have to be employed, robot body rolling may cause vision inspection data to have little value as it is difficult to know where exactly the camera was looking at. This paper proposes an anti-rolling mechanism to hold consistent camera orientation. By changing the position angle of the robot legs, the mechanism is able to adjust the resistance to rolling within a pipe, therefore preventing robot rolling happening. The design makes use of the friction force caused by the gravity force of the robot to prevent the robot body rolling. The design analysis quantifies the effect of pipe radius, robot weight, payload, and payload offset distance in robot rolling. A test model was built based on the design concept. The experimental results obtained from the test model match the predication of the computational analysis. A real time vision system has been developed using FPGA and the algorithm of the structured laser light stripe configuration in the context of pipe inspection. The real-time hardware implementation of the algorithms on the robot itself removes the need to transmit raw video data back to an operator.
LONGITUDINAL STUDY ON LIVER FUNCTIONS IN PATIENTS WITH THALASSEMIA MAJOR BEFORE AND AFTER DEFERASIROX (DFX) THERAPY
Authors: Soliman Ashraf Tawfik , Yassin Mohamed , AlYafei Fawzia , Al-Naimi Lolwa , Almarri Noora , Sabt Aml , De Sanctis Vincenzo
Published: April 2014

With regular blood transfusion and iron chelation therapy, most patients with thalassemia major (BTM) now survive beyond the third decade of life . Liver disease is becoming an important cause of morbidity and mortality in these patients. Chronic hepatitis and/or severe iron overload are important causes of liver pathology. Iron chelation with desferrioxamine (Desferal)  reduces excessive body iron, but its efficacy is limited by poor compliance and dose related toxicity. The recent use of Deferasirox (Exjade- DFX ), an  oral single dose therapy has improved the compliance to chelation therapy.Aims: To study the long-term liver functions in BMT patients, seronegative for liver infections before versus after DFX therapy in relation to ferritin level and IGF-I level.Methods: Liver function tests including: serum bilirubin, alanine transferase (ALT), aspartate transferase (AST) , albumin, insulin-like growth factor – I (IGF-I) and serum ferritin concentrations were followed every 6 months in 40 patients with BTM, with hepatitis negative screening (checked every year), for at  least   five years of DFO therapy and 4-5 years of DFX therapy .Results: DFX  therapy (20 mg/kg/day)  significantly decreased serum ferritin level in patients with BTM, this was associated with significant decrease in serum ALT, AST, ALP and increase in IGF-I concentrations. Albumin concentrations did not change after DFX treatment. ALT and AST levels were correlated significantly with serum  ferritin concentrations ( r = 0.45 and 0.33 respectively , p < 0.05) . IGF-I concentrations were correlated significantly with serum ALT (r= 0.26, p = 0.05) but not with AST, ALP, bilirubin or albumin levels.The negative correlation between serum ferritin concentrations and ALT suggests that impairment of hepatic function negatively affects IGF-I synthesis in these patients due to iron toxicity, even in the absence of hepatitis.Conclusions: Some impairment of liver function can occur in hepatitis negative BMT patients with iron overload. The use of DFX was associated with mild but significant reduction of ALT, AST and ALP and increase in IGF-I levels. The negative correlation between IGF-I and ALT concentrations suggest that preventing hepatic dysfunction may improve the growth potential in these patients.
TUBERCULOSIS IN PATIENTS WITH HAEMATOLOGICAL MALIGNANCIES
Authors: Anibarro Luis , Pena Alberto
Published: April 2014

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease that causes more than 1 million deaths worldwide every year. In addition, it is estimated that one third of the world population is infected with M. Tuberculosis in a latent state, which involves an eventual risk of progressing to active TB disease. Patients with immunodeficiencies, such as those suffering from haematological malignancies, have a greater risk of progressing to TB disease once infected. It is estimated that the Relative Risk of TB disease in patients with hematologic malignancies is 2-40 times that of general population. The diagnosis of TB in these patients is often difficult as they often present clinical characteristics that are distinct to those of patients without any other underlying disease. Mortality attributable to tuberculosis is higher. Therefore it is recommended to diagnose latent TB infection in order to offer a preventive therapy that could prevent the progression from a latent state to active TB disease. There are currently two methods for diagnosing latent TB infection: the Tuberculin Skin Test (TST) and the Interferon-Gamma Release Assays (IGRA). Due to the lack of sensitivity in patients with immunodeficient conditions, a combined TST-IGRA testing is probably the best way for latent TB diagnosis in order to gain sensitivity. Treatment of latent TB infection and TB disease should follow the general principles to that in general population.
IMMUNOLOGY OF TUBERCULOSIS
Authors: Bozzano Federica , Marras Francesco , De Maria Andrea
Published: April 2014

MTB ranks as the first worldwide pathogen latently infecting one third of the population and the second leading cause of death from a single infectious agent, after the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The development of vigorous and apparently appropriate immune response upon infection with M.tuberculosis in humans and experimental animals conflict with failure to eradicate the pathogen itself and with its ability to undergo clinical latency from which it may exit. From a clinical standpoint, our views on MTB infection may take advantage from updating the overall perspective, that has quite changed over the last decade, following remarkable advances in our understanding of the manipulation of the immune system by M.tuberculosis and of the role of innate components of the immune response, including macrophages, neutrophils, dendritic cells and NK cells in the initial spread of MTB and in its exit from latency. Scope of this review is to highlight the the major mechanisms of MTB escape from immune control and to provide a supplementary translational perspective for the interpretation of innate immune mechanisms with particular impact on clinical aspects.
TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITORS AND PREGNANCY
Authors: Abruzzese Elisabetta , Trawinska Malgorzata Monika , De Fabritiis Paolo , Perrotti Alessio Pio
Published: April 2014

The management of patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) during pregnancy has became recently a matter of continuous debate.  The introduction of the Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (TKIs) in clinical practice has dramatically changed the prognosis of CML patients.  Patients diagnosed in chronic phase can reasonably expect many years of excellent disease control and good quality of life, as well as a normal life expectancy.  This fact has come the necessity to address issues relating to fertility and pregnancy. Physicians are not infrequently being asked for advice regarding the need for, and or the appropriateness of, stopping treatment in order to conceive. In this report we will review the data published in terms of fertility, conception, pregnancy, pregnancy outcome and illness control for all the approved TKIs, as well as suggest how to manage a planned and/or unplanned pregnancy.
ANTIFUNGAL SUSCEPTIBILITY TESTING: CURRENT ROLE FROM THE CLINICAL LABORATORY PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Posteraro Brunella , Torelli Riccardo , De Carolis Elena , Posteraro Patrizia , Sanguinetti Maurizio
Published: April 2014

Despite availability of many antifungal agents, antifungal clinical resistance occurs, perhaps as a result of an infecting organism found to be resistant in vitro to one or more antifungals tested. Thus, antifungal susceptibility testing (AFST) results, if timely generated by the clinical microbiology and communicated to clinicians, can aid them in the therapeutic decision making, especially for difficult-to-treat invasive candidiasis and aspergillosis. Although recently refined AFST methods are commercially available to allow a close antifungal resistance surveillance in many clinical setting, novel assays, relying on short-time antifungal drug exposure of fungal isolates, are upcoming tools for AFST. Based on emerging technologies such as flow cytometry, MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry, and isothermal microcalorimetry, these assays could provide a reliable means for quicker and sensitive assessment of AFST.
Advanced psychiatric nurse practitioners’ ideas and needs for supervision in private practice in South Africa
Authors: Temane Annie M. , Poggenpoel Marie , Myburgh Chris P.H.
Published: April 2014

Background: Supervision forms an integral part of psychiatric nursing. The value of clinicalsupervision has been demonstrated widely in research. Despite efforts made toward advancedpsychiatric nursing, supervision seems to be non-existent in this field.Objectives: The aim of this study was to explore and describe advanced psychiatric nursepractitioners’ ideas and needs with regard to supervision in private practice in order tocontribute to the new efforts made in advanced psychiatric nursing in South Africa.Method: A qualitative, descriptive, exploratory, and contextual design using a phenomenological approach as research method was utilised in this study. A purposive sampling was used. Eight advanced psychiatric nurse practitioners in private practice described their ideas and needs for supervision during phenomenological interviews. Tesch’s method of open coding was utilised to analyse data. After data analysis the findings were recontextualised within literature.Results: The data analysis generated the following themes – that the supervisor should have or possess: (a) professional competencies, (b) personal competencies and (c) specificfacilitative communication skills. The findings indicated that there was a need for supervision of advanced psychiatric nurse practitioners in private practice in South Africa.Conclusion: This study indicates that there is need for supervision and competent supervisors in private practice. Supervision can be beneficial with regard to developing a culture of support for advanced psychiatric practitioners in private practice and also psychiatric nurse practitioners.
Response of acid mobilization of iron-containing mineral dust to improvement of air quality projected in the future
Authors: Ito A. , Xu L.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. Acidification of dust aerosols may increase aerosol iron (Fe) solubility, which is linked to mineral properties. Combustion aerosols can also elevate aerosol iron solubility when aerosol loading is low. Here, we use an atmospheric chemical transport model to investigate the deposition of filterable iron and its response to changes in anthropogenic emissions of both combustion aerosols and precursor gases. By introducing three classes of iron-containing minerals into the detailed aerosol chemistry model, we provide a theoretical examination of the effects of different dissolution behaviors on the acid mobilization of iron. Comparisons of modeled Fe dissolution curves with the measured dissolution rates for African, east Asian, and Australian dust samples show overall good agreement under acidic conditions. The improved treatment of Fe in mineral dust and its dissolution scheme results in reasonable predictive capability for iron solubility over the oceans in the Northern Hemisphere. Our model results suggest that the improvement of air quality projected in the future will lead to a decrease of the filterable iron deposition from iron-containing mineral dust to the eastern North Pacific due to less acidification in Asian dust, which is mainly associated with the reduction of nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions. These results could have important implications for iron fertilization of phytoplankton growth, and highlight the necessity of improving the process-based quantitative understanding of the response of the chemical modification in iron-containing minerals to environmental changes.
Characteristic nature of vertical motions observed in Arctic mixed-phase stratocumulus
Authors: Sedlar J. , Shupe M. D.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. Over the Arctic Ocean, little is known on cloud-generated buoyant overturning vertical motions within mixed-phase stratocumulus clouds. Characteristics of such motions are important for understanding the diabatic processes associated with the vertical motions, the lifetime of the cloud layer and its micro- and macrophysical characteristics. In this study, we exploit a suite of surface-based remote sensors over the high-Arctic sea ice during a weeklong period of persistent stratocumulus in August 2008 to derive the in-cloud vertical motion characteristics. In-cloud vertical velocity skewness and variance profiles are found to be strikingly different from observations within lower-latitude stratocumulus, suggesting these Arctic mixed-phase clouds interact differently with the atmospheric thermodynamics (cloud tops extending above a stable temperature inversion base) and with a different coupling state between surface and cloud. We find evidence of cloud-generated vertical mixing below cloud base, regardless of surface–cloud coupling state, although a decoupled surface–cloud state occurred most frequently. Detailed case studies are examined, focusing on three levels within the cloud layer, where wavelet and power spectral analyses are applied to characterize the dominant temporal and horizontal scales associated with cloud-generated vertical motions. In general, we find a positively correlated vertical motion signal amongst vertical levels within the cloud and across the full cloud layer depth. The coherency is dependent upon other non-cloud controlled factors, such as larger, mesoscale weather passages and radiative shielding of low-level stratocumulus by one or more cloud layers above. Despite the coherency in vertical velocity across the cloud, the velocity variances were always weaker near cloud top, relative to cloud middle and base. Taken in combination with the skewness, variance and thermodynamic profile characteristics, we observe vertical motions near cloud top that behave differently than those from lower within the cloud layer. Spectral analysis indicates peak cloud-generated w variance timescales slowed only modestly during decoupled cases relative to coupled; horizontal wavelengths only slightly increased when transitioning from coupling to decoupling. The similarities in scales suggests that perhaps the dominant forcing for all cases is generated from the cloud layer, and it is not the surface forcing that characterizes the time- and space scales of in-cloud vertical velocity variance. This points toward the resilient nature of Arctic mixed-phase clouds to persist when characterized by thermodynamic regimes unique to the Arctic.
Refractory black carbon mass concentrations in snow and ice: method evaluation and inter-comparison with elemental carbon measurement
Authors: Lim S. , Faïn X. , Zanatta M. , Cozic J. , Jaffrezo J.-L. , Ginot P. , Laj P.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. Accurate measurement of black carbon (BC) mass concentrations in snow and ice is crucial for the assessment of climatic impacts. However, it is difficult to compare methods used to assess BC levels in the literature as they are not the same. The single particle soot photometer (SP2) method appears to be one of the most suitable to measure low concentrations of BC in snow and ice. However, deriving BC concentrations with SP2 is not straightforward and different measurement options may lead to different results. In this paper, we propose an optimized method for the quantification of refractory BC (rBC) in snow and ice samples using SP2. The paper reviews all the steps of rBC determination including SP2 calibration, correction for rBC particle aerosolization, and treatment of the samples. In addition, we compare the SP2 method and the thermal-optical method (Sunset organic carbon (OC)-elemental carbon (EC) aerosol analyzer with EUSAAR-2 protocol), using snow and firn samples with different characteristics from the Greenland Summit, the French Alps, the Caucasus, and the Himalayas. The EC : rBC ratio was 1.8 ± 1.2 for the Greenland site, 0.4 ± 0.2 for the Alpine site, 0.9 ± 0.3 for the Caucasus site, and 3.0 ± 1.2 for the Himalayan site. Careful investigation was undertaken of analytical uncertainties in both methods, concerning the analytical range of detection of BC, aerosolization correction for rBC, filtration efficiency of quartz fiber filter before EC analysis, the impact of dust, and pyrolyzed organic carbon artifacts during EC analysis. We conclude that the complexity of artifacts can lead to inaccurate rBC or EC determination. In particular, we observed significant under-estimation of EC due to incomplete filtration together with positive artifacts caused by OC. These results underline the need for careful assessment of the analytical technique and procedure for correct data interpretation.
Environmental forcing of the Campeche cold-water coral province, southern Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Hebbeln D. , Wienberg C. , Wintersteller P. , Freiwald A. , Becker M. , Beuck L. , Dullo C. , Eberli G. P. , Glogowski S. , Matos L. , Forster N. , Reyes-Bonilla H. , Taviani M.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. With an extension of > 40 km2 the recently discovered Campeche cold-water coral province located at the northeastern rim of the Campeche Bank in the southern Gulf of Mexico belongs to the largest coherent cold-water coral areas discovered so far. The Campeche province consists of numerous 20–40 m-high elongated coral mounds that are developed in intermediate water depths of 500 to 600 m. The mounds are colonized by a vivid cold-water coral ecosystem that covers the upper flanks and summits. The rich coral community is dominated by the framework-building Scleractinia Enallopsammia profunda and Lophelia pertusa, while the associated benthic megafauna shows a rather scarce occurrence. The recent environmental setting is characterized by a high surface water production caused by a local upwelling center and a dynamic bottom-water regime comprising vigorous bottom currents, obvious temporal variability, and strong density contrasts, which all together provide optimal conditions for the growth of cold-water corals. This setting – potentially supported by the diel vertical migration of zooplankton in the Campeche area – controls the delivering of food particles to the corals. The Campeche cold-water coral province is, thus, an excellent example highlighting the importance of the oceanographic setting in securing the food supply for the development of large and vivid cold-water coral ecosystems.
Oscillatory behavior of two nonlinear microbial models of soil carbon decomposition
Authors: Wang Y. P. , Chen B. C. , Wieder W. R. , Leite M. , Medlyn B. E. , Rasmussen M. , Smith M. J. , Agusto F. B. , Hoffman F. , Luo Y. Q.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. A number of nonlinear models have recently been proposed for simulating soil carbon decomposition. Their predictions of soil carbon responses to fresh litter input and warming differ significantly from conventional linear models. Using both stability analysis and numerical simulations, we showed that two of those nonlinear models (a two-pool model and a three-pool model) exhibit damped oscillatory responses to small perturbations. Stability analysis showed the frequency of oscillation is proportional to √(ϵ−1−1) Ks/Vs in the two-pool model, and to √(ϵ−1−1) Kl/Vl in the three-pool model, where ϵ is microbial growth efficiency, Ks and Kl are the half saturation constants of soil and litter carbon, respectively, and /Vs and /Vl are the maximal rates of carbon decomposition per unit of microbial biomass for soil and litter carbon, respectively. For both models, the oscillation has a period of between 5 and 15 years depending on other parameter values, and has smaller amplitude at soil temperatures between 0 and 15 °C. In addition, the equilibrium pool sizes of litter or soil carbon are insensitive to carbon inputs in the nonlinear model, but are proportional to carbon input in the conventional linear model. Under warming, the microbial biomass and litter carbon pools simulated by the nonlinear models can increase or decrease, depending whether ϵ varies with temperature. In contrast, the conventional linear models always simulate a decrease in both microbial and litter carbon pools with warming. Based on the evidence available, we concluded that the oscillatory behavior and insensitivity of soil carbon to carbon input are notable features in these nonlinear models that are somewhat unrealistic. We recommend that a better model for capturing the soil carbon dynamics over decadal to centennial timescales would combine the sensitivity of the conventional models to carbon influx with the flexible response to warming of the nonlinear model.
Isotopic composition of water-soluble nitrate in bulk atmospheric deposition at Dongsha Island: sources and implications of external N supply to the northern South China Sea
Authors: Yang J.-Y. T. , Hsu S.-C. , Dai M. H. , Hsiao S. S.-Y. , Kao S.-J.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. Increased reactive nitrogen (Nr, NO3− + NH4++ + dissolved organic nitrogen) emission from the Asian continent poses profound threats to ecosystem safety from terrestrial throughout the ocean proper. To quantify atmospheric Nr input, diagnose its sources, and evaluate influence on marine nitrogen cycle of the South China Sea (SCS), an oligotrophic marginal sea adjacent to the emission hot spot China, we conducted measurements of concentrations of nitrate and ammonium as well as other major ions and dual isotopes of nitrate (δ15NNO3 and δ18ONO3) in atmospheric deposition collected from Dongsha Island off southern China. The δ15NNO3 and δ18ONO3 for dry deposition averaged at −2.8‰ and +58.8‰, ranging from −7.5 to +3.7‰ and from ∼ +17 to +88‰, respectively. Wet deposition, although with limited samples, showed a similar flux-weighted mean in δ15NNO3 (−2.6‰) yet a significantly higher mean in δ18ONO3 (+78.8‰). The dual isotope ratios showed an anti-correlation and an inverse seasonality; the δ15NNO3 values were higher in summer compared to those in winter, while the δ18ONO3 values were higher in winter than those in summer. In winter, not only dual isotopic compositions of nitrate but also the ammonium and nitrate dry deposition fluxes were relatively uniform, demonstrating a persistent influence of fossil fuel combustion sourced from Asian continental outflows via the northeasterly monsoon winds. More variable isotopic values in summer likely suggest varying sources and dynamical formation processes of dry deposition nitrate. Biomass burning and lightning are suggested to be responsible for the observed higher δ15NNO3 values in summer. Atmospheric nitrate and ammonium deposition together was estimated to be ∼50 mmol N m−2 year−1, with the dominance of nitrate in dry deposition but ammonium slightly higher in wet deposition. If not including this additional fertilization of atmospheric inorganic nitrogen deposition to enhance the carbon sequestration, CO2 release out of the SCS would be double than that of the present amount, 460 ± 430 mmol C m−2 year−1. Our study demonstrates that atmospheric deposition may serve as an important external Nr supplier to the SCS; however it is difficult to separate the isotopic signal from N2 fixation (−2–0‰) due to their similarity in δ15NNO3. More studies related to isotopic composition of nitrogen speciation in atmospheric Nr deposition, their relative contributions and source identification, and the role of typhoons in the SCS are required.
The effect of ripple types on cross-shore suspended sediment flux
Authors: Kularatne S. R. , Doucette J. , Pattiaratchi C. B.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. Field measurements, collected at several low energy, microtidal beaches in south-western Australia were used to study the cross-shore transport and sediment resuspension over different sand ripple types. The measurements included simultaneous records of the water surface elevation, cross-shore current velocity, and suspended sediment concentration, as well as free diver measurements of the ripple dimensions. The observed ripples were classified according to their geometry and sediment suspension patterns into six categories: flat bed, post-vortex ripples, two-dimensional (2-D) ripples, two/three-dimensional (2-D/3-D) ripples, three-dimensional (3-D) ripples, and cross ripples. Flat bed conditions were observed under the highest flow mobility numbers. Post-vortex ripples were observed under slightly lower mobility numbers. The other ripple types occurred under low mobility numbers, with no significant difference in the mobility number among them. Two-dimensional ripples were observed more than the other ripple types in the presence of coarse grains. The suspended sediment concentration at ∼0.05 m above the bed was greater over steep ripples. The net cross-shore suspended sediment flux close to the seabed (at ∼0.05 m) in the swell frequency band varied over the different ripples types: onshore over a flat bed, offshore over post-vortex ripples, onshore over 2-D and 2-D/3-D ripples, and offshore over 3-D ripples. The suspended sediment flux direction over the cross ripples varied between onshore and offshore.
Irrigation efficiency and water-policy implications for river basin resilience
Authors: Scott C. A. , Vicuña S. , Blanco-Gutiérrez I. , Meza F. , Varela-Ortega C.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. Rising demand for food, fiber, and biofuels drives expanding irrigation withdrawals from surface water and groundwater. Irrigation efficiency and water savings have become watchwords in response to climate-induced hydrological variability, increasing freshwater demand for other uses including ecosystem water needs, and low economic productivity of irrigation compared to most other uses. We identify three classes of unintended consequences, presented here as paradoxes. Ever-tighter cycling of water has been shown to increase resource use, an example of the efficiency paradox. In the absence of effective policy to constrain irrigated-area expansion using "saved water", efficiency can aggravate scarcity, deteriorate resource quality, and impair river basin resilience through loss of flexibility and redundancy. Water scarcity and salinity effects in the lower reaches of basins (symptomatic of the scale paradox) may partly be offset over the short-term through groundwater pumping or increasing surface water storage capacity. However, declining ecological flows and increasing salinity have important implications for riparian and estuarine ecosystems and for non-irrigation human uses of water including urban supply and energy generation, examples of the sectoral paradox. This paper briefly considers three regional contexts with broadly similar climatic and water-resource conditions – central Chile, southwestern US, and south-central Spain – where irrigation efficiency directly influences basin resilience. The comparison leads to more generic insights on water policy in relation to irrigation efficiency and emerging or overdue needs for environmental protection.
In defense of “slacktivism”: The Human Rights Campaign Facebook logo as digital activism
Authors: Vie Stephanie
Published: April 2014

This paper examines the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Marriage Equality logo as an example of a meme to further understandings of memetic transmission in social media technologies. The HRC meme is an important example of how even seemingly insignificant moves such as adopting a logo and displaying it online can serve to combat microaggressions, or the damaging results of everyday bias and discrimination against marginalized groups. This article suggests that even small moves of support, such as changing one’s Facebook status to a memetic image, assist by demonstrating a supportive environment for those who identify with marginalized groups and by drawing awareness to important causes. Often dismissed as “slacktivism,” I argue instead that the digital activism made possible through social media memes can build awareness of crucial issues, which can then lead to action.
An Empirical Examination of Universal Jurisdiction for Piracy
Authors: Kontorovich Eugene , Art Steven
Published: April 2014

This essay presents a systematic study of the incidence of universal jurisdiction (UJ) prosecutions for the international crime of piracy. Using data on the number of piracies committed in a twelve-year period (1998-2009) obtained from international agencies and maritime industry groups, we determined the percentage of these cases where nations exercised universal jurisdiction. Studies of the worldwide use of UJ prosecutions for other crimes simply count how often universal jurisdiction has been exercised but do not attempt to determine the rate of prosecution. Simply counting cases does not allow one to appreciate the significance of universal jurisdiction in relation to the total problem. While the expressive or symbolic value of universal justice may be satisfied by a small number of isolated prosecutions, the deterrent effect depends on its incidence relative to the number of perpetrated crimes.
Eritrea’s Damages Claims (Eritrea v. Ethiopia), Final Award. Ethiopia’s Damages Claims (Ethiopia v. Eritrea), Final Award
Authors: Weeramantry J. Romesh
Published: April 2014

ERITREA'S DAMAGES CLAIMS (ERITREA V. ETHIOPIA), FINAL AWARD.Athttp://www.pca-cpa.org.Eritrea Ethiopia Claims Commission, August 17, 2009.

ETHIOPIA'S DAMAGES CLAIMS (ETHIOPIA V. ERITREA), FINAL AWARD.Athttp://www.pca-cpa.org.Eritrea Ethiopia Claims Commission, August 17, 2009.
Economic Foundations of the Law Of the Sea
Authors: Posner Eric A. , Sykes Alan O.
Published: April 2014

The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea demonstrates plausible economic logic by assigning jurisdiction over portions of the ocean to the states that value them the most and can regulate them most cheaply, while respecting other states΄ interests in navigation and additional uses of the seas. For the vast oceanic areas that no state can regulate, the Convention provides for an open access regime subject to simple rules, mostly self-enforcing, to limit conflict over resources.
Analysis of the Relationship between Household Life Cycle and Tourism Expenditure in Taiwan: An Application of the Infrequency of Purchase Model
Authors: Sun Pi-Chuan , Lee Huei-Shan , Chen Tzong-Shyuan
Published: April 2014

The infrequency of purchase (IP) model was used to explore the impact of financial factors, limiting factors, social status and household life cycle on family travel intention and travel expenditure in Taiwan. The empirical results indicate that family travel intention and level of expenditure vary at different stages of the household life cycle. Additionally, family incomes, the education level of the head of the household, women's employment and home ownership have significantly positive impacts on travel intention and level of expenditure. The findings also suggest that the presence of a family member's health problems or the number of seniors over 65 years of age in a household will reduce travel intention and thus the level of travel expenditure.
Nutraceuticals: An Healthy Bet for the Future
Authors: Santini Antonello
Published: April 2014

This Issue of the Journal of Food Research, dedicated to the IX Italian Congress on Food Chemistry, ChimAlSi 2012 (Ischia, Napoli, Italy-June 3-7), collects selected manuscripts presented at the Congress, and proposes some aspects and an in depth look of many subjects related to food, that have been the focus of the ChimAlSi 2012. The Scientific Committee, formed by Proff. Ettore Novellino, Luca Rastrelli, Alberto Ritieni, and Antonello Santini, made this event unique as it has been enriched by the participation of more than 300 delegates, including many young researchers from different Countries. On behalf of the Scientific and Organizing Committes, I would like to take the chance to thank here all the speakers and the partecipants, that gave their valuable contribution to the brilliant success of this scientific event. The Congress represented a challenging chance for scientists, regulators, and industry representatives, to meet and share aspects of cutting edge knowledge in the field of Food Chemistry, new research lines, and potential development opportunities to provide the market with higher quality food and nutraceuticals. The IX Italian Congress of Food Chemistry included 12 plenary lectures, 66 lectures, and 290 poster presentations. Two Workshops focused on food contaminants and on the role of food in human health, completed the program of the activities, that covered a wide variety of food related topics ranging from food contaminants and food quality to new analytical approaches, nutritional and health aspects, food integrators, medical foods, nutraceuticals. The scientific contributions were divided in four homogeneous sessions dedicated to food safety, techniques of food analysis, bioactive compounds, and nutraceuticals. These last food-derived compounds, mostly of vegetal origin, are starting to be considered the challenge for the future in the field of Food Chemistry and Nutrition, as a valid low cost, environmental friendly sources alternative to drugs as active supplements for the prevention and to support the therapy in many different health conditions.
Asymmetric Synthesis of Enantiomerically Enriched a-Amino Acids Containing 2-Furyl- and 2-Thienyl-1,2,4-triazoles in the Side-Chain
Authors: Saghyan Ashot S. , Simonyan Hayarpi M. , Petrosyan Satenik G. , Mkrtchyan Anna F. , Khachatryan Lilit V. , Geolchanyan Arpine V. , Samvelyan Melanya A. , Ghochikyan Tariel V. , Kelzhanova Nazken , Saginayev Amanzhan T. , Langer Peter
Published: April 2014

An efficient method for the asymmetric synthesis of a-amino acids, containing furyl- and thiophenyl-substituted triazoles in their side-chain, is reported. The strategy relies on Michael addition of 3,4,5-substituted 1,2,4-triazoles to the C=C bond of chiral NiII complexes containing the Schiff base formed from dehydroamino acids (dehydroalanine and (E + Z)-dehydroaminobutyric acid) and from chiral auxiliaries, i. e. (S)-2-N-(N0-benzylprolyl)aminobenzophenone and (S)-2-N- (N0-2-chlorobenzylprolyl) aminobenzophenone. The reactions proceeded with good to very good diastereoselectivity. Hydrolysis of the diastereomeric mixtures of metal complexes afforded the enantiomerically pure a-amino acids with high enantiomeric excess (ee> 98%).
Diastereoselective Aerial Oxidative Cyclization of Methylenebisnaphthols Catalyzed by N-Hydroxyimides in the Presence of Fe3+ and Co2+-Mn2+ Catalysts
Authors: Khorramabadi-zad Ahmad , Mohammadi Somaye , Azadmanesh Mohammad
Published: April 2014

Aerial oxidative cyclization of methylenebisnaphthols to their corresponding spirans has been carried out using catalytic amounts of N-hydroxyimides and FeCl3·6H2O or Co(OAc)2·4H2OMn( OAc)2·4H2O. In this article we focus on the use of FeCl3·6H2O as a highly green and sustainable catalyst.
Synthesis and Crystal Structure of Pd5InSe
Authors: Götze André , Urban Philipp , Oeckler Oliver , Kohlmann Holger
Published: April 2014

Pd5InSe has been prepared from the elements. The use of iodine as a mineralizing agent enables the synthesis of single-phase powder samples as well as of single crystals. Pd5InSe is stable in cold air, but reacts to give Pd, In2O3 and Pd4Se at 400 °C. The crystal structure of Pd5InSe was determined from single-crystal X-ray diffraction data (space group P4=mmm, a = 4.0255(7), c = 6.972(1) Å, z(Pd2) = 0.28111(8)) and belongs to the Pd5TlAs-type structure with full occupation of all atomic sites. EDX analysis on the single crystal (Pd5.0(1)In0.99(3)Se1.0(1)) confirms the stoichiometric composition. The relationship to the cubic close packing (Cu-type structure), which may be visualized by the crystal chemical formula Pd4PdTlAs⃞, is proven by a Bärnighausen symmetry tree.
Supervised Change Detection in Satellite Imagery Using Super Pixels and Relevance Feedback
Authors: Gadhiraju Surender Varma , Sahbi Hichem , Banerjee Biplab , Buddhiraju Krishna Mohan
Published: April 2014

The data from remote sensing satellites provide opportunities to acquire information about land at varying resolutions and has been widely used for change detection studies. A large number of change detection methodologies and techniques utilizing remotely sensed data have been developed, and newer techniques are still emerging. In this paper, a novel supervised approach of change detection using Support Vector Machine (SVM) and super pixels is proposed. In the formulation of change detection, SVM is modeled as a binary classifier to get the final output as “Change” and “No-Change” information. A relevant feedback mechanism is also included in to the change detection strategy so that it adapts in accordance with user preferences. Both ground truth and relevance feedback are collected using the developed GUIs. Comparison of the proposed approach with three other techniques of change detection is done via the experiments conducted on three multitemporal datasets. It is observed that the supervised, super pixel based change detection strategy gives superior results compared to traditional approaches of change detection. It is also seen that the usage of relevance feedback fine-tunes the results of change detection and acts as a desirable post-change detection process.
Navigability of Watercourses and Natural Severances: Implications for Land Surveyors
Authors: Buisman Jeff
Published: April 2014

There are many streams and waterways in Ontario which have the potential of being found “navigable”. The difficulty for both lawyers and land surveyors is in the making of a correct determination when the potential owner, Crown Ontario, does not have a ready answer or a catalogue of what it considers to be Crown land as a result of the Beds of Navigable Waters Act. The question of navigability and best practices in making such a determination is addressed. Arriving at a determination is not always an easy process and there are many factors to consider – including cost. This article will not only review the general criteria, but also turn to a number of practical examples which illustrate approaches that may be helpful to surveyors. At a basic level, this is not only a boundary issue, but also directly impacts title. It also has implications for ownership of two parcels of land rather than just one.
Atividade alelopática de Araucaria angustifolia (Bertol.) Kuntze na germinação e crescimento inicial de Lactuca sativa L.
Authors: Silveira Bruna Denardin da , Hosokawa Roberto Tuyoshi , Nogueira Antonio Carlos , Weber Veridiana Padoin
Published: April 2014

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1980509813325O presente estudo teve por objetivo avaliar as possíveis atividades alelopáticas de Araucaria angustifolia na germinação e crescimento inicial de Lactuca sativa. No experimento foram utilizadas sementes de alface e extrato aquoso extraído das folhas de araucária, com concentrações de 10%, 7,5%, 5,0% e 2,5%. O efeito destas quatro concentrações foi comparado com o de água destilada (concentração 0%). A partir dos dados coletados, determinou-se a percentagem de germinação (G%), índice de velocidade de germinação (IVG), tempo médio de germinação (t), comprimento e massa seca das plântulas. Os resultados demonstraram que o extrato aquoso das folhas de araucária possui propriedade inibitória na germinação, velocidade de germinação e no crescimento inicial de Lactuca sativa.
Riqueza e composição florística da comunidade de samambaias na mata ciliar do Rio Cadeia, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil
Authors: Mallmann Ivanete Teresinha , Schmitt Jairo Lizandro
Published: April 2014

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1980509813327Este trabalho analisou a riqueza e a composição da comunidade de samambaias em fragmentos de mata ciliar do rio Cadeia, sob diferentes níveis de antropização, em Santa Maria do Herval, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Foram alocadas 120 parcelas distribuídas equitativamente em três fragmentos (FI, FII e FIII), sendo inventariadas todas as espécies e registrada a riqueza por unidade amostral. A composição florística entre os fragmentos foi comparada empregando-se o índice de Jaccard e a distribuição espacial das parcelas foi avaliada por meio de escalonamento multidimensional. Os dados de riqueza foram apresentados utilizando-se curvas de rarefação baseadas em amostras e estimadores não paramétricos de diversidade. Foram encontradas 40 espécies, distribuídas em 13 famílias. A maior similaridade florística ocorreu entre o FI e o FII. As parcelas do FI formaram o agrupamento mais definido e apresentaram o maior número de espécies exclusivas. A curva de rarefação para a amostra total se aproximou da assíntota e os estimadores apontaram no máximo 45 espécies, evidenciando que a maioria das espécies foi inventariada na mata ciliar. Um gradiente decrescente de riqueza média por parcela foi observado à medida que aumenta a urbanização no habitat matriz dos fragmentos. Esses resultados constituem uma base de dados a ser utilizada em manejo, conservação e reflorestamento de matas ciliares degradadas. Eles podem ser comparados diretamente aos resultados obtidos em outros trabalhos que utilizam rarefação e estimativas de riqueza, o que não é possível com muitos dos inventários realizados no Brasil.
Efeito de diferentes temperaturas na germinação e crescimento radicular de sementes de jatobá-mirim (Guibourtia hymenaefolia (Moric.) J. Léonard)
Authors: Oliveira Ademir Kleber Morbeck de , Pereira Kelly Cristina Lacerda
Published: April 2014

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1980509813328A espécie Jatobá-Mirim pertence à família Fabaceae, apresentando-se distribuída pelos biomas Pantanal e Caatinga. Sua madeira é indicada para construção civil e confecção de mobiliário de luxo, e a árvore é recomendada para arborização urbana e utilizada para a composição de reflorestamentos heterogêneos. Levando-se em consideração seu potencial de utilização, este trabalho foi desenvolvido com o objetivo de verificar o efeito de diferentes temperaturas sobre as taxas de germinação e crescimento radicular inicial de sementes de Jatobá-Mirim. As sementes utilizadas no experimento foram coletadas na Fazenda Cabeceira do Prata, Município de Jardim, Mato Grosso do Sul, em setembro de 2009. O material coletado foi transportado para o Laboratório de Pesquisa em Sistemas Ambientais e Biodiversidade da Universidade Anhanguera- Uniderp, no qual o experimento foi desenvolvido. As sementes foram submetidas a seis tratamentos, em temperaturas constantes, de 20, 25, 30 e 35°C e alternadas de 20-30 e 25-35°C em câmaras de germinação tipo BOD. Os resultados obtidos evidenciaram maior percentagem de germinação das sementes nas temperaturas de 30°C (90%), 35°C (97%) e 25-35°C (90%), estatisticamente iguais, indicando que estas temperaturas são mais eficazes em promover a germinação. Levando-se em consideração o tempo médio de germinação, índice de velocidade de germinação e produção de matéria seca, as temperaturas constantes de 30 e 35°C se destacam, sendo seus resultados estatisticamente iguais e superiores aos demais tratamentos.