bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Old carbon contributes to aquatic emissions of carbon dioxide in the Amazon
Authors: Vihermaa L. E. , Waldron S. , Garnett M. H. , Newton J.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. Knowing the rate at which carbon is cycled is crucial to understanding the dynamics of carbon transfer pathways. Recent technical developments now support measurement of the 14C age of evaded CO2 from fluvial systems, which provides an important "fingerprint" of the source of C. Here we report the first direct measurements of the 14C age of effluxed CO2 from two small streams and two rivers within the western Amazonian Basin. The rate of degassing and hydrochemical controls on degassing are also considered. We observe that CO2 efflux from all systems except for the seasonal small stream was 14C-depleted relative to the contemporary atmosphere, indicating a contribution from "old" carbon fixed before ~ 1955 AD. Further, "old" CO2 was effluxed from the perennial stream in the rainforest; this was unexpected as here connectivity with the contemporary C cycle is likely greatest. The effluxed gas represents all sources of CO2 in the aquatic system and thus we used end-member analysis to identify the relative inputs of fossil, modern and intermediately aged C. The most likely solutions indicated a contribution from fossil carbon sources of between 3 and 9% which we interpret as being derived from carbonate weathering. This is significant as the currently observed intensification of weather has the potential to increase the future release of old carbon, which can be subsequently degassed to the atmosphere, and so renders older, slower C cycles faster. Thus 14C fingerprinting of evaded CO2 provides understanding which is essential to more accurately model the carbon cycle in the Amazon Basin.
Treeline dynamics with climate change at the central Nepal Himalaya
Authors: Gaire N. P. , Koirala M. , Bhuju D. R. , Borgaonkar H. P.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. Treeline shifting in tandem with climate change has widely been reported from various parts of the world. In Nepal, several impacts of climate change on the physical environment have been observed, but study on the biological impacts is lacking. This dendrochronological study was carried out at the treeline in the high mountain slope of Kalchuman Lake (3750–4003 m a.s.l.) area of Manaslu Conservation Area in the central Nepal Himalaya to explore the impact of climate change on the treeline dynamic. Two belt transect plots (size: 20 m wide, > 250 m long) were laid which included treeline as well as tree species limit. Ecological mapping of all individuals of dominant trees Abies spectabilis and Betula utilis was done and their tree cores were collected. Stand character and age distribution revealed an occurrence of more matured B. utilis (max. age 198 years) compared to A. spectabilis (max. age 160 years). A. spectabilis contained an overwhelmingly high population (89%) of younger plants (< 50 years) indicating its high recruitment rate. Population age structure along the elevation gradient revealed an upward shifting of A. spectabilis at the rate of 2.61 m year-1 since AD 1850. The upper distribution limit of B. utilis was found to be stagnant in the past few decades. An increment in plant density as well as upward shifting in the studied treeline ecotones was observed. The temporal growth of A. spectabilis was correlated negatively with the monthly mean and minimum temperature of June to September of the current and previous year. The regeneration of A. spectabilis, on the other hand, was positively correlated with August precipitation and monthly maximum temperature of the month of the current year. The growth and regeneration of A. spectabilis was more sensitive to maximum and minimum temperature rather than average temperature. The growth of the B. utilis was mainly limited by moisture stress during the pre-monsoon season. As these two species presented species-specific responses to climate change with differential pattern in regeneration condition, much wider differences are anticipated in their population status as climate continues to change throughout the century.
C-GEM (v 1.0): a new, cost-efficient biogeochemical model for estuaries and its application to a funnel-shaped system
Authors: Volta C. , Arndt S. , Savenije H. H. G. , Laruelle G. G. , Regnier P.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. Reactive transport models (RTMs) are powerful tools for disentangling the complex process interplay that drives estuarine biogeochemical dynamics, for assessing the quantitative role of estuaries in global biogeochemical cycles and for predicting their response to anthropogenic disturbances (land-use change, climate change and water management). Nevertheless, the application of RTMs for a regional or global estimation of estuarine biogeochemical transformations and fluxes is generally compromised by their high computational and data demands. Here, we describe C-GEM (Carbon-Generic Estuary Model), a new one-dimensional, computationally efficient RTM that reduces data requirements by using a generic, theoretical framework based on the direct relationship between estuarine geometry and hydrodynamics. Despite its efficiency, it provides an accurate description of estuarine hydrodynamics, salt transport and biogeochemistry on the appropriate spatio–temporal scales. We provide a detailed description of the model, as well as a protocol for its set-up. The new model is then applied to the funnel-shaped Scheldt estuary (BE/NL), one of the best-surveyed estuarine systems in the world. Its performance is evaluated through comprehensive model–data and model–model comparisons. Model results show that C-GEM captures the dominant features of the biogeochemical cycling in the Scheldt estuary. Longitudinal steady-state profiles of oxygen, ammonium, nitrate and silica are generally in good agreement with measured data. In addition, simulated, system-wide integrated reaction rates of the main pelagic biogeochemical processes are comparable with those obtained using a high-resolved, two-dimensional RTM. A comparison of fully transient simulations results with those of a two-dimensional model shows that the estuarine net ecosystem metabolism (NEM) only differs by about 10%, while system-wide estimates of individual biogeochemical processes never diverge by more than 40%. A sensitivity analysis is carried out to assess the sensitivity of biogeochemical processes to uncertainties in parameter values. Results reveal that the geometric parameters LC (estuarine convergence length) and H (water depth), as well as the rate constant of organic matter degradation (kox) exert an important influence on the biogeochemical functioning of the estuary. The sensitivity results also show that, currently, the most important hurdle towards regional- or global-scale applications arises from the lack of an objective framework for sediment and biogeochemical process parameterization. They, therefore, emphasize the need for a global compilation of biogeochemical parameter values that can help identify common trends and possible relationships between parameters and controlling factors, such as climate, catchment characteristics and anthropic pressure.
Evaluation of TRMM rainfall estimates over a large Indian river basin (Mahanadi)
Authors: Kneis D. , Chatterjee C. , Singh R.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. The paper examines the quality of satellite-based precipitation estimates for the lower Mahanadi River basin (eastern India). The considered data sets known as 3B42 and 3B42-RT (version 7/7A) are routinely produced by the tropical rainfall measuring mission (TRMM) from passive microwave and infrared recordings. While the 3B42-RT data are disseminated in real time, the gauge-adjusted 3B42 data set is published with a delay of some months. The quality of the two products was assessed in a two-step procedure. First, the correspondence between the remotely sensed precipitation rates and rain gauge data was evaluated at the sub-basin scale. Second, the quality of the rainfall estimates was assessed by analysing their performance in the context of rainfall–runoff simulation. At sub-basin level (4000 to 16 000 km2) the satellite-based areal precipitation estimates were found to be moderately correlated with the gauge-based counterparts (R2 of 0.64–0.74 for 3B42 and 0.59–0.72 for 3B42-RT). Significant discrepancies between TRMM data and ground observations were identified at high-intensity levels. The rainfall depth derived from rain gauge data is often not reflected by the TRMM estimates (hit rate < 0.6 for ground-based intensities > 80 mm day-1). At the same time, the remotely sensed rainfall rates frequently exceed the gauge-based equivalents (false alarm ratios of 0.2–0.6). In addition, the real-time product 3B42-RT was found to suffer from a spatially consistent negative bias. Since the regionalisation of rain gauge data is potentially associated with a number of errors, the above results are subject to uncertainty. Hence, a validation against independent information, such as stream flow, was essential. In this case study, the outcome of rainfall–runoff simulation experiments was consistent with the above-mentioned findings. The best fit between observed and simulated stream flow was obtained if rain gauge data were used as model input (Nash–Sutcliffe index of 0.76–0.88 at gauges not affected by reservoir operation). This compares to the values of 0.71–0.78 for the gauge-adjusted TRMM 3B42 data and 0.65–0.77 for the 3B42-RT real-time data. Whether the 3B42-RT data are useful in the context of operational runoff prediction in spite of the identified problems remains a question for further research.
Kalman filters for assimilating near-surface observations into the Richards equation – Part 1: Retrieving state profiles with linear and nonlinear numerical schemes
Authors: Chirico G. B. , Medina H. , Romano N.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. This paper examines the potential of different algorithms, based on the Kalman filtering approach, for assimilating near-surface observations into a one-dimensional Richards equation governing soil water flow in soil. Our specific objectives are: (i) to compare the efficiency of different Kalman filter algorithms in retrieving matric pressure head profiles when they are implemented with different numerical schemes of the Richards equation; (ii) to evaluate the performance of these algorithms when nonlinearities arise from the nonlinearity of the observation equation, i.e. when surface soil water content observations are assimilated to retrieve matric pressure head values. The study is based on a synthetic simulation of an evaporation process from a homogeneous soil column. Our first objective is achieved by implementing a Standard Kalman Filter (SKF) algorithm with both an explicit finite difference scheme (EX) and a Crank-Nicolson (CN) linear finite difference scheme of the Richards equation. The Unscented (UKF) and Ensemble Kalman Filters (EnKF) are applied to handle the nonlinearity of a backward Euler finite difference scheme. To accomplish the second objective, an analogous framework is applied, with the exception of replacing SKF with the Extended Kalman Filter (EKF) in combination with a CN numerical scheme, so as to handle the nonlinearity of the observation equation. While the EX scheme is computationally too inefficient to be implemented in an operational assimilation scheme, the retrieval algorithm implemented with a CN scheme is found to be computationally more feasible and accurate than those implemented with the backward Euler scheme, at least for the examined one-dimensional problem. The UKF appears to be as feasible as the EnKF when one has to handle nonlinear numerical schemes or additional nonlinearities arising from the observation equation, at least for systems of small dimensionality as the one examined in this study.
Kalman filters for assimilating near-surface observations into the Richards equation – Part 2: A dual filter approach for simultaneous retrieval of states and parameters
Authors: Medina H. , Romano N. , Chirico G. B.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. This study presents a dual Kalman filter (DSUKF – dual standard-unscented Kalman filter) for retrieving states and parameters controlling the soil water dynamics in a homogeneous soil column, by assimilating near-surface state observations. The DSUKF couples a standard Kalman filter for retrieving the states of a linear solver of the Richards equation, and an unscented Kalman filter for retrieving the parameters of the soil hydraulic functions, which are defined according to the van Genuchten–Mualem closed-form model. The accuracy and the computational expense of the DSUKF are compared with those of the dual ensemble Kalman filter (DEnKF) implemented with a nonlinear solver of the Richards equation. Both the DSUKF and the DEnKF are applied with two alternative state-space formulations of the Richards equation, respectively differentiated by the type of variable employed for representing the states: either the soil water content (θ) or the soil water matric pressure head (h). The comparison analyses are conducted with reference to synthetic time series of the true states, noise corrupted observations, and synthetic time series of the meteorological forcing. The performance of the retrieval algorithms are examined accounting for the effects exerted on the output by the input parameters, the observation depth and assimilation frequency, as well as by the relationship between retrieved states and assimilated variables. The uncertainty of the states retrieved with DSUKF is considerably reduced, for any initial wrong parameterization, with similar accuracy but less computational effort than the DEnKF, when this is implemented with ensembles of 25 members. For ensemble sizes of the same order of those involved in the DSUKF, the DEnKF fails to provide reliable posterior estimates of states and parameters. The retrieval performance of the soil hydraulic parameters is strongly affected by several factors, such as the initial guess of the unknown parameters, the wet or dry range of the retrieved states, the boundary conditions, as well as the form (h-based or θ-based) of the state-space formulation. Several analyses are reported to show that the identifiability of the saturated hydraulic conductivity is hindered by the strong correlation with other parameters of the soil hydraulic functions defined according to the van Genuchten–Mualem closed-form model.
Kalman filters for assimilating near-surface observations into the Richards equation – Part 3: Retrieving states and parameters from laboratory evaporation experiments
Authors: Medina H. , Romano N. , Chirico G. B.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. The purpose of this work is to evaluate the performance of a dual Kalman filter procedure in retrieving states and parameters of a one-dimensional soil water budget model based on the Richards equation, by assimilating near-surface soil water content values during evaporation experiments carried out under laboratory conditions. The experimental data set consists of simultaneously measured evaporation rates, soil water content and matric potential profiles. The parameters identified by assimilating the data measured at 1 and 2 cm soil depths are in very good agreement with those obtained by exploiting the observations carried out in the entire soil profiles. A reasonably good correspondence has been found between the parameter values obtained from the proposed assimilation technique and those identified by applying a non-sequential parameter estimation method. The dual Kalman filter also performs well in retrieving the water state in the porous system. Bias and accuracy of the predicted state profiles are affected by observation depth changes, particularly for the experiments involving low state vertical gradients. The assimilation procedure proved flexible and very stable in both experimental cases, independently from the selected initial conditions and the involved uncertainty.
Application of MODIS snow cover products: wildfire impacts on snow and melt in the Sierra Nevada
Authors: Micheletty P. D. , Kinoshita A. M. , Hogue T. S.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. The current work evaluates the spatial and temporal variability in snow after a large forest fire in northern California with Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) snow covered area and grain size (MODSCAG) algorithm. MODIS MOD10A1 fractional snow covered area and MODSCAG fractional snow cover products are utilized to detect spatial and temporal changes in snowpack after the 2007 Moonlight Fire and an unburned basin, Grizzly Ridge, for water years (WY) 2002–2012. Estimates of canopy adjusted and non-adjusted MODSCAG fractional snow covered area (fSCA) are smoothed and interpolated to provide a continuous timeseries of daily basin average snow extent over the two basins. The removal of overstory canopy by wildfire exposes more snow cover; however, elemental pixel comparisons and statistical analysis show that the MOD10A1 product has a tendency to overestimate snow coverage pre-fire, muting the effects of wildfire. The MODSCAG algorithm better distinguishes sub-pixel snow coverage in forested areas and is highly correlated to soil burn severity after the fire. Annual MODSCAG fSCA estimates show statistically significant increased fSCA in the Moonlight Fire study area after the fire (WY 2008–2011; P < 0.01) compared to pre-fire averages and the control basin. After the fire, the number of days exceeding a pre-fire high snow cover threshold increased by 81%. Canopy reduction increases exposed viewable snow area and the amount of solar radiation that reaches the snowpack leading to earlier basin average melt-out dates compared to the nearby unburned basin. There is also a significant increase in MODSCAG fSCA post-fire regardless of slope or burn severity. Alteration of regional snow cover has significant implications for both short and long-term water supplies for downstream communities and resource managers.
Carbon and nitrogen dynamics and greenhouse gases emissions in constructed wetlands: a review
Authors: Jahangir M. M. R. , Fenton O. , Gill L. , Müller C. , Johnston P. , Richards K. G.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. The nitrogen (N) removal efficiency of constructed wetlands (CWs) is very inconsistent and does not alone explain if the removed species are reduced by physical attenuation or if they are transformed to other reactive forms (pollution swapping). There are many pathways for the removed N to remain in the system: accumulation in the sediments, leaching to groundwater (nitrate-NO3- and ammonium-NH4+), emission to atmosphere via nitrous oxide- N2O and ammonia and/or conversion to N2 gas and adsorption to sediments. The kinetics of these pathways/processes varies with CWs management and therefore needs to be studied quantitatively for the sustainable use of CWs. For example, the quality of groundwater underlying CWs with regards to the reactive N (Nr) species is largely unknown. Equally, there is a dearth of information on the extent of Nr accumulation in soils and discharge to surface waters and air. Moreover, CWs are rich in dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and produce substantial amounts of CO2 and CH4. These dissolved carbon (C) species drain out to ground and surface waters and emit to the atmosphere. The dynamics of dissolved N2O, CO2 and CH4 in CWs is a key "missing piece" in our understanding of global greenhouse gas budgets. In this review we provide an overview of the current knowledge and discussion about the dynamics of C and N in CWs and their likely impacts on aquatic and atmospheric environments. We suggest that the fate of various N species in CWs and their surface emissions and subsurface drainage fluxes need to be evaluated in a holistic way to better understand their potential for pollution swapping. Research on the process based N removal and balancing the end products into reactive and benign forms are critical to assess environmental impacts of CWs. Thus we strongly suggest that in situ N transformation and fate of the transformation products with regards to pollution swapping requires further detailed examination.
Atmospheric processes triggering the central European floods in June 2013
Authors: Grams C. M. , Binder H. , Pfahl S. , Piaget N. , Wernli H.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. In June 2013, central Europe was hit by a century flood affecting the Danube and Elbe catchments after a 4 day period of heavy precipitation and causing severe human and economic loss. In this study model analysis and observational data are investigated to reveal the key atmospheric processes that caused the heavy precipitation event. The period preceding the flood was characterised by a weather regime associated with cool and unusual wet conditions resulting from repeated Rossby wave breaking (RWB). During the event a single RWB established a reversed baroclinicity in the low to mid-troposphere in central Europe with cool air trapped over the Alps and warmer air to the north. The upper-level cut-off resulting from the RWB instigated three consecutive cyclones in eastern Europe that unusually tracked westward during the days of heavy precipitation. Continuous large-scale slantwise ascent in so-called "equatorward ascending" warm conveyor belts (WCBs) associated with these cyclones is found as the key process that caused the 4 day heavy precipitation period. Fed by moisture sources from continental evapotranspiration, these WCBs unusually ascended equatorward along the southward sloping moist isentropes. Although "equatorward ascending" WCBs are climatologically rare events, they have great potential for causing high impact weather.
The use of FLO2D numerical code in lahar hazard evaluation at Popocatépetl volcano: a 2001-lahar scenario
Authors: Caballero L. , Capra L.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. Lahar modelling represents an excellent tool to design hazard maps. It allows the definition of potential inundation zones for different lahar magnitude scenarios and sediment concentrations. Here we present the results obtained for the 2001 syneruptive lahar at Popocatépetl volcano, based on simulations performed with FLO2D software. An accurate delineation of this event is needed since it is one of the possible scenarios considered during a volcanic crisis. One of the main issues for lahar simulation using FLO2D is the calibration of the input hydrograph and rheologic flow properties. Here we verified that geophone data can be properly calibrated by means of peak discharge calculations obtained by superelevation method. Simulation results clearly show the influence of concentration and rheologic properties on lahar depth and distribution. Modifying rheologic properties during lahar simulation strongly affect lahar distribution. More viscous lahars have a more restricted aerial distribution, thicker depths, and resulting velocities are noticeable smaller. FLO2D proved to be a very successful tool to delimitate lahar inundation zones as well as to generate different lahar scenarios not only related to lahar volume or magnitude but also to take into account different sediment concentrations and rheologies widely documented to influence lahar prone areas.
Residual circulation and freshwater transport in the Dutch Wadden Sea: a numerical modelling study
Authors: Duran-Matute M. , Gerkema T. , de Boer G. J. , Nauw J. J. , Gräwe U.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. The Dutch Wadden Sea is a region of intertidal flats located between the chain of Wadden Islands and the Dutch mainland. We present numerical model results on the tidal prisms and residual flows through the tidal inlets and across one of the main watersheds. The model also provides insight into the pathways of fresh water originating from the two sluices at the Afsluitdijk (enclosure dike) through the use of passive tracers. All these results are obtained from three-dimensional numerical simulations carried out with the General Estuarine Transport Model (GETM), at a horizontal resolution of 200 m and with terrain-following vertical coordinates with 30 layers. We concentrate on the years 2009–2010, for which we impose meteorological forcing, freshwater discharge, and boundary conditions for tidal forcing and storm surges. Results from the model show an excellent agreement with various observational data sets for sea surface height, temperature, salinity and transport through the Texel Inlet. The simulations show that although tides are responsible for a characteristic pattern of residual transport through the inlets, the wind imposes a large variability on its magnitude and can even invert its direction during strong southwesterly winds. Even though these events are sporadic, they play an important role in the flushing of the Dutch Wadden Sea, as they strongly diminish the flushing time of fresh water. In addition, wind can force a residual transport across the Terschelling watershed of the same order, if not larger, than through any of the main tidal inlets, despite the fact that its tidal prism is much smaller than any of those of the inlets. For the pathways of fresh water, the Terschelling watershed turns out to be more important than was previously thought, while the opposite holds for the Vlie Inlet.
Modelling complex geological circular data with the projected normal distribution and mixtures of von Mises distributions
Authors: Lark R. M. , Clifford D. , Waters C. N.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. Circular data are commonly encountered in the earth sciences and statistical descriptions and inferences about such data are necessary in structural geology. In this paper we compare two statistical distributions appropriate for complex circular data sets: the mixture of von Mises and the projected normal distribution. We show how the number of components in a mixture of von Mises distribution may be chosen, and how one may choose between the projected normal distribution and the mixture of von Mises for a particular data set. We illustrate these methods with a few structural geological data, showing how the fitted models can complement geological interpretation and permit statistical inference. One of our data sets suggests a special case of the projected normal distribution which we discuss briefly.
Série Peixes: procedimentos experimentais em gravura - DOI 10.5216/vis.v2i1.17877
Authors: Clímaco José César
Published: July 2014

Relato do processo de investigação de linguagem artística individual em gravura com base no emprego de lâminas de plásticos como matrizes e sua impressão. Descreve os experimentos realizados, com o intuito de aprofundar e confirmar resultados obtidos – as possibilidades expressivas dos plásticos – no trabalho de Tese de Doutorado realizada na Espanha um ano antes, assim como experimentar e comparar com os plásticos nacionais. Esse processo gerou cerca de trinta gravuras, intituladas “série peixes” e exibidas em duas exposições, em Goiânia e Brasília.Palavras-chave: gravura, matrizes, impressão
Educación artistica para el desarrollo de la conciencia - DOI 10.5216/vis.v2i1.17878
Authors: Salgueiro Loreto Blanco
Published: July 2014

Este artigo tem como referência a experiência da autora como professora em faculdades de Artes, a partir da qual foi sendo formulada uma visão da pedagogia e da arte, aqui apresentada sob a forma de conclusões prévias. Abordando os objetivos do curso de artes, o texto enfoca o comportamento dos estudantes diante do que lhes é apresentado sob a forma de atividades de ensino e a postura dos professores nas avaliações dos trabalhos desses mesmos estudantes, com o propósito de defender uma educação artística baseada em valores que potencializem consciências livres, responsáveis e criativas.Palavras-chave: Educação artística; pedagogia da arte; consciência.
Brasil, 1833: A descoberta da fotografia revisitada - DOI 10.5216/vis.v2i1.17891
Authors: Monteiro Rosana Horio
Published: July 2014

Esse artigo examina a fotografia como um caso particular de descoberta múltipla, investigando-se detalhadamente o processo fotográfico desenvolvido pelo francês Hercule Florence na primeira metade do século 19 no Brasil, de forma simultânea, e independente, a outros processos desenvolvidos sobretudo na Europa. A partir da análise de seus manuscritos e de outros documentos originais do período e combinando elementos da teoria mertoniana da descoberta e dos estudos sociais da ciência, argumento que as circunstâncias periféricas locais de produção estão incorporadas na forma final do processo de Florence: um processo fotográfico sem o uso da câmera escura.Palavras-chave: história da fotografia, história da ciência, descobertas múltiplas.
Cellular Automata Based Real-Time Path-Planning for Mobile Robots
Authors: Syed Usman Ahmed , Kunwar Faraz
Published: July 2014

Intelligent mobile robotic agents demand optimal motion planners with minimal query time. Most contemporary algorithms lack one of these two required aspects. This paper proposes an efficient path-planning scheme based on cellular automata (CA) that generates optimal paths in the minimum time. A Cellular automaton is evolved over the entire search space and subsequently used for the determination of the shortest path. This approach generates a parent-child relationship for each cell in order to minimize the search time. Performance comparisons with A*, Dijkstra's, D* and MPCNN have proven it to be time-efficient. Analysis, simulation and experimental results have proven it to be a robust and complete path-planning scheme. Also it has demonstrated to be time-efficient in both static and dynamic environments.
Using Nonionic Surfactants for Production of Semiconductor-Type Carbon Nanotubes by Gel-Based Affinity Chromatography
Authors: Gangoli Varun Shenoy , Azhang Juyan , Willett Taryn T. , Gelwick Sean A. , Haroz Erik H. , Kono Junichiro , Hauge Robert H. , Wong Michael S.
Published: July 2014

Single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) have remarkable properties based on their electronic properties, i.e., metallic or semiconducting types, but as-grown SWCNTs contain a mixture of both types. Presented here is an improved and detailed method for producing highly enriched semiconducting SWCNTs from a colloidal suspension of as-grown SWCNTs through agarose gel column-based affinity chromatography. After a 2 wt% sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) aqueous dispersion of SWCNTs is passed through the gel column, metal-type SWCNTs preferentially elute out using a 1.5 wt% SDS solution. Semiconductor-type SWCNTs are subsequently recovered from the column using a 2 wt% Pluronic F77 surfactant solution eluent. The semiconductor-enriched fraction purity is in the 90–95% range, based on detailed UV-vis-NIR absorption and resonant Raman spectroscopy characterization of the particulate suspension. Semiconductor-type SWCNTs are recovered in solid form by evaporating the suspension fluid, and heating the dried sample in air to a temperature just above the Pluronic decomposition temperature. Using Pluronic and other nonionic-type surfactants can aid the scalability of the chromatographic production of semiconducting SWCNT samples.
Three new species and new records of African Psammoecus Latreille (Coleoptera, Silvanidae)
Authors: Karner Michael
Published: July 2014

Three new African species of Psammoecus Latreille, 1829 are described: Psammoecus nyakabuyensis sp. nov., Psammoecus procerus sp. nov. and Psammoecus sinuaticollis sp. nov. New distribution data and a revised identification key for African Psammoecus are given.
Deficiência mental: o que dizem os manuais diagnósticos?
Authors: Bridi Fabiane Romano de Souza , Baptista Claudio Roberto
Published: July 2014

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1984686X13393 Este trabalho surge da necessidade de se investigar o que dizem os manuais diagnósticos acerca da deficiência mental, principalmente, no que se refere ao conceito de deficiência mental, aos critérios de diagnóstico e classificação. Na presente pesquisa trabalhou-se com: o Manual Diagnóstico e Estatístico de Transtornos Mentais – DSM-IV (2002); a Classificação Internacional das Doenças – CID-10, (OMS, 1993); a Classificação Internacional de Funcionalidade, Incapacidade e Saúde – CIF, (OMS, 2003); e com Retardo mental: definição, classificação e sistemas de apoio (AAMR, 2002). Os pressupostos teóricos do pensamento sistêmico serviram de ferramenta analítica do material investigado. Foi possível observar uma estreita ligação entre a proposição teórica dos diferentes manuais. Apesar da existência de algumas diferenças, essas mudanças não chegam a produzir uma ruptura epistemológica nas formas de se conceber e identificar o fenômeno em questão, apresentando-se filiada aos pressupostos tradicionais do pensamento científico. Entende-se que a compreensão teórico-conceitual a respeito do fenômeno da deficiência mental traz implicações diretas na proposição e nas configurações das práticas pedagógicas, justificando-se, desta forma, realização desse estudo.
Alguns efeitos do nosso tempo na formação de professores da Educação Especial
Authors: Possa Leandra Boer , Naujorks Maria Inês
Published: July 2014

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1984686X7655 A vontade de saber e problematizar aquilo que parece tranquilo e naturalizado em torno da formação do professor/a da Educação Especial é os efeitos de uma estratégia política neoliberal que opera nos processos de objetivação/sujeição de um sujeito que se produz profissional da Educação Especial. A trama que legitima processos de formação, como um eterno momento de aprendizagem para a profissão, é um modo de subjetivação no qual, todos são capturados a exercermos sobre nós mesmos um tipo de poder que se dobra a partir das relações que exercemos sobre nós mesmos e sobre os outros. Este texto problematiza as discussões em torno da formação de professores da Educação Especial a partir de três temas, são eles: a Inclusão, a Escola inclusiva e a Educação para todos; o binômio da Educação Especial que apresenta o campo clínico em contrário ao da Educação; e, a perspectiva totalizante e polivalente que vem contornando o discurso da política de formação do professor/a da Educação Especial. Para concluir, apontamos a necessidade de desnaturalizar um modelo dado à formação de professores/a da Educação Especial, para que possamos perceber contingencialmente os regimes de verdade e a racionalidade política que organizam e estruturam tal formação. Propomo-nos a pensar sobre os efeitos que estes regimes de verdade, já que não temos como escapar deles, produzem no modo como se subjetivam aqueles, que pela formação, constituem-se professores de tal campo.
Produção científica da Terapia Ocupacional na inclusão escolar: interface com a Educação Especial e contribuições para o campo
Authors: Coppede Aline Cirelli , Oliveira Alyne Kalyane Câmara de , Rosa Fernanda Duarte , Hayashi Maria Cristina Piumbato Innocentini
Published: July 2014

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1984686X8281 Uma estratégia que tem se mostrado produtiva para que a educação inclusiva seja posta em prática de forma eficaz é a parceria de profissionais da educação com profissionais da saúde. O terapeuta ocupacional (TO) apresenta em sua formação características capazes de enquadrá-lo como elemento importante no processo de melhorias na inclusão escolar. Objetiva-se caracterizar a produção científica nacional acerca das contribuições da Terapia Ocupacional no processo de inclusão escolar, através de uma pesquisa exploratória e descritiva, com abordagem bibliométrica. As buscas foram realizadas nas bases de dados da BVS, Scielo, Redalyc e nos periódicos Cadernos de Terapia Ocupacional da UFSCar, Revista de Terapia Ocupacional da USP, Revista Brasileira de Educação Especial e Revista Educação Especial da UFSM, utilizando as expressões de busca “terapia ocupacional”, “inclusão escolar”, “educação especial”, “educação inclusiva”, “contexto escolar”, “tecnologia assistiva” e “escola”. Com o auxílio do Software VantagePoint®, as análises produziram indicadores: ano de publicação; principais periódicos onde estes artigos são publicados; autores que mais participam de publicações; principais temas abordados. Resultados apontaram algumas características da literatura da área, com destaque para o crescimento no número de publicações nos últimos dois anos; predominância de publicações em periódicos da Terapia Ocupacional; pequeno grupo de autores responsáveis pela maioria das publicações; maior parte de estudos originais, de revisão, exploratórios e descritivos; sendo a temática mais frequente referente a questões sobre a atuação do TO em processos de inclusão escolar, dados estes que caracterizam a produção científica e revelam importantes contribuições da Terapia Ocupacional no contexto da educação inclusiva.
A criança com Síndrome Cri-Du-Chat na escola comum: um estudo de caso
Authors: Drago Rogério , Burgos Vanessa Pita Barreira , Santos Camila Reis dos
Published: July 2014

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1984686X8621 Este texto tem como objetivo apresentar a Síndrome Cri-Du-Chat ou Síndrome do Miado de Gato, como é comumente conhecida, em relação aos aspectos médicos e educacionais envolvidos no processo de desenvolvimento das pessoas que possuem esta condição patológica, bem como, a partir de um do estudo de caso desenvolvido numa escola pública municipal de Vila Velha-ES refletir sobre como tem sido realizado o processo de ensino e aprendizagem com estudante que possui tal síndrome, e que está matriculada no ensino regular, numa perspectiva inclusiva. O estudo apresenta-se estruturado em três partes. A primeira parte evoca questões médico-biológicas pertinentes à síndrome. A segunda aponta a relevância do processo educacional inclusivo para o desenvolvimento de alunos com necessidades educacionais especiais causadas por deficiência a partir de uma perspectiva sócio-histórica. Ao final traz os aspectos do estudo de caso desenvolvido com o intuito de compreender e analisar as vivências sociais e educacionais dos sujeitos envolvidos neste processo: aluna com Síndrome Cri-Du-Chat, professora do AEE e familiares desta aluna com necessidades educacionais especiais.
Conhecimentos prévios dos alunos surdos fluentes em libras referentes à linguagem algébrica no Ensino Médio
Authors: Frizzarini Silvia Teresinha , Nogueira Clélia Maria Ignatius
Published: July 2014

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1984686X8717 Poucas são as pesquisas, com reflexões mais profundas, sobre o estudo da álgebra com alunos surdos. De forma a validar e disseminar ações educativas nesse contexto, o presente artigo tem como objetivo destacar os conhecimentos prévios dos alunos surdos, fluentes em Libras, referentes à linguagem algébrica utilizada no Ensino Médio. O embasamento teórico utilizado foi a teoria de Duval, com as análises das transformações, por tratamento e conversão dos diferentes registros de representação semiótica, em particular das inequações. A metodologia utilizada foi a aplicação de uma avaliação diagnóstica realizada com alunos surdos, todos fluentes em Libras, de uma Escola Especial localizada no norte do Paraná. Destaca-se a necessidade de se trabalhar em ambos os sentidos de conversão, em diferentes linguagens, principalmente quando o registro de partida é o gráfico. A conclusão a que se chegou foi de que não se deve separar a representação algébrica dos outros registros, devido à necessidade de a língua de sinais desempenhar não apenas função de comunicação, mas também as funções de objetivação e tratamento, fundamentais no desenvolvimento cognitivo.
Along‐axis hydrothermal flow at the axis of slow spreading Mid‐Ocean Ridges: Insights from numerical models of the Lucky Strike vent field (MAR)
Authors: Fontaine Fabrice J. , Cannat Mathilde , Escartin Javier , Crawford Wayne C.
Published: July 2014

The processes and efficiency of hydrothermal heat extraction along the axis of mid‐ocean ridges are controlled by lithospheric thermal and permeability structures. Hydrothermal circulation models based on the structure of fast and intermediate spreading ridges predict that hydrothermal cell organization and vent site distribution are primarily controlled by the thermodynamics of high‐temperature mid‐ocean ridge hydrothermal fluids. Using recent constraints on shallow structure at the slow spreading Lucky Strike segment along the Mid‐Atlantic Ridge, we present a physical model of hydrothermal cooling that incorporates the specificities of a magma‐rich slow spreading environment. Using three‐dimensional numerical models, we show that, in contrast to the aforementioned models, the subsurface flow at Lucky Strike is primarily controlled by across‐axis permeability variations. Models with across‐axis permeability gradients produce along‐axis oriented hydrothermal cells and an alternating pattern of heat extraction highs and lows that match the distribution of microseismic clusters recorded at the Lucky Strike axial volcano. The flow is also influenced by temperature gradients at the base of the permeable hydrothermal domain. Although our models are based on the structure and seismicity of the Lucky Strike segment, across‐axis permeability gradients are also likely to occur at faster spreading ridges and these results may also have important implications for the cooling of young crust at fast and intermediate spreading centers.
Nonlinear internal waves generated and trapped upstream of islands in the Kuroshio
Authors: Kodaira T. , Waseda T. , Miyazawa Y.
Published: July 2014

Nonlinear internal waves (NIWs) induce strong surface currents which are observable in synthetic aperture radar (SAR) images. SAR images of the Kuroshio show parabolic features around Japan's Izu Islands implying possible NIWs. Most images were taken during the summer when the Kuroshio approached the islands, and the winds were relatively weak. Nonhydrostatic numerical simulations revealed that around the islands, mode 1 internal waves are not trapped but higher modes, with lower propagation speeds, are trapped. The surface convergence field predicted by the model reproduces prominent, parabolic features observed in the SAR images. Based on this agreement, we suggest that the NIWs are generated around the Izu Islands by the Kuroshio and the parabolic features detected by SAR are surface manifestations of these NIWs. Specific atmospheric and oceanic conditions which are conducive for NIW detection by SAR are defined.
Ionic and Capacitive Artificial Muscle for Biomimetic Soft Robotics
Authors: Must Indrek , Kaasik Friedrich , Põldsalu Inga , Mihkels Lauri , Johanson Urmas , Punning Andres , Aabloo Alvo
Published: July 2014

We report here the development of an actuator with an ionic electromechanically active polymer (IEAP) laminate that is exclusively designed to exhibit a combination of high electrically induced strain and high bending modulus. The newly constructed laminate is one of the few IEAPs meeting the requirements for use in miniature soft robotics. The laminate has activated carbon‐based electrodes and ionic liquid is used as an electrolyte. Layers of compliant gold foil are used as current collectors. The superior performance of the IEAP laminate is demonstrated by constructing a centimeter‐scale robot propelled by a single IEAP actuator. The cyclic locomotion of the robot is inspired by the movements of an inchworm, while the IEAP laminate is used concurrently as an actuator and a structural member. The 830‐mg robot is able to crawl on a smooth surface in open air, solely by undulation of its body. The microprocessor‐controlled robot has an on‐board lithium battery and uses a pulse‐width‐modulated signal to drive the IEAP actuator. The robot is able to carry its own power supply and even an extra payload. The constructed biomimetic robot is distinctive for the use of a non‐planar actuator whose shape is programmed during the manufacturing process.
Gas–liquid flow modeling in columns equipped with structured packing
Authors: Soulaine Cyprien , Horgue Pierre , Franc Jacques , Quintard Michel
Published: July 2014

The modeling of gas–liquid flow in distillation columns equipped with structured packing has been dealt. The devices are seen as bistructured porous media, and a macroscale model is proposed taking into account this specific geometry. In this model, the two liquid films, one‐per‐sheet, are treated separately and are allowed to exchange matter at the vicinity of the contact points between corrugated sheets. The model emphasizes mechanisms that lead to the liquid radial dispersion effects: a main part comes from the geometry itself, another part is due to the capillary effects. A particular attention is paid to model these phenomena from a macroscale point of view. Finally, the simulation results are confronted to tomography imaging within a lab‐scale column and show a qualitative good agreement of the liquid distribution. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 60: 3665–3674, 2014
A novel hybrid feedstock to liquids and electricity process: Process modeling and exergoeconomic life cycle optimization
Authors: He Chang , You Fengqi , Feng Xiao
Published: July 2014

This article proposes a novel hybrid low‐rank coal (LRC)/biomass/natural gas process for producing liquid fuels and electricity. The hybrid process highlights coexistence of indirect and direct liquefaction technologies, cogasification of char and biomass, and corefinery of LRC syncrude and Fischer–Tropsch syncrude. A process simulation based on detailed chemical kinetics is present to illustrate its feasibility. In addition, we propose an exergoeconomic life cycle optimization framework that seeks to maximize the primary exergy saving ratio, primary total overnight cost saving ratio, life cycle waste emissions avoidance ratio, and primary levelized cost saving ratio by comparing the proposed hybrid process to its reference stand‐alone subsystems. From the results, we can determine four optimal designs which yield competitive breakeven oil prices ranging from $1.87/GGE to $2.13/GGE. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 60: 3739–3753, 2014
In vivo imaging of spinal cord atrophy in neuroinflammatory diseases
Authors: Liu Winston , Nair Govind , Vuolo Luisa , Bakshi Anshika , Massoud Raya , Reich Daniel S. , Jacobson Steven
Published: July 2014

Objective

Spinal cord atrophy is prominent in chronic progressive neurologic diseases such as human T‐cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV‐1)‐associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP) and multiple sclerosis (MS). Here we compared the spinal cord cross‐sectional area (SCCSA) in HAM/TSP and MS patients to that of healthy volunteers (HVs).

Methods

SCCSA and clinical disability scores were measured in 18 HAM/TSP patients, 4 asymptomatic carriers (ACs) of HTLV‐1, 18 MS patients, and 10 HVs from a 3T magnetic resonance imaging. SCCSA measured in patients and ACs were compared to that of HVs and correlated with disability scores.

Results

The entire spinal cord in HAM/TSP patients was thin compared to HVs, whereas only the cervical cord in MS patients was thinner than in HVs (p < 0.0001). In HAM/TSP patients, SCCSA extensively correlated with Ambulation Index, whereas only the cervical cord correlated with disease duration (p < 0.05). In MS patients, the SCCSA extensively correlated with Scripps Neurologic Rating Score and the Expanded Disability Status Scale (p < 0.05). One of the 4 ACs showed atrophy in a pattern similar to HAM/TSP.

Interpretation

These results are in accordance with the findings that whereas over half of all lesions in an MS cord are seen in the upper cervical cord, most of the pathology in HAM/TSP is seen in the thoracolumbar cord, which in turn may be responsible for the more extensive cord atrophy seen in HAM/TSP. An imaging marker such as SCCSA might serve as a surrogate endpoint in clinical trials, especially to assess the neuroprotective impact of various therapies. Ann Neurol 2014;76:370–378