bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IFRS Convergence and Revisions
Authors: Outa Erick R. , Waweru Nelson M.
Published: March 2016

This chapter is aimed at examining the impact of IFRS convergence and revisions on the financial statements of companies listed in East Africa. This was achieved by determining whether firms report losses (LNEG) when they occur (timely loss recognition) or report small positive income (SPOS) or whether incomes reported exhibit variability in net income (NI) over time. Simultaneously, the chapter tests whether there is any influence of corporate governance on these three measures which are considered indicators of financial reporting quality. Four models applying GLS random effects are applied on 520 firm year observations for firms listed in Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) between 2005 and 2014. The result shows that a positive coefficient on frequency of large losses reported in the finding interpreted as firms with converged and revised IFRS recognize large losses (LNEG) as they occur. The findings also show a negative coefficient on small positive income (SPOS) interpreted as firms applying non-converged and revised standards manage earnings towards small positive amounts more than firms applying converged standards. The post convergence\revisions are significant for Chi, R2 and the residual which suggest that variability in net income (NI) improved in the post convergence period while corporate governance show insignificant mixed coefficient with the three indicators.
Are IFRS Adoption Benefits in Developing Countries a Time-Lag?
Authors: Ormin Koholga
Published: March 2016

The IFRS is a useful international financial reporting framework that ensures comparable and quality financial information disclosure. IFRS perceived benefits compare to local and regional accounting standards has led to its adoption and implementation by several countries around the globe. However, IFRS is argued to benefit the developed countries the most due to their strong market and institutional settings (He, Wong & Young, 2009). This paper critically explores the question of whether IFRS adoption benefits in a developing country such as Nigeria is time-lag. The paper is a library research thus inferences were drawn deductively base on previous works conducted in Nigeria and elsewhere on IFRS adoption. This approach was further complimented by the conduct of interview with three professional accountants in practice and two economics analysts. It was revealed and concluded that due to their weak market, institutional settings and other factors, a time-lag is necessary for Nigeria and indeed all other developing countries to fully maximise the benefits of IFRS adoption and implementation. Notwithstanding, the paper recommends that to fast track IFRS benefits, developing countries and Nigeria in particular, should overhaul capital market infrastructure and ensure a strong ethical and good corporate governance environment as well as strict compliance with IFRS requirements through increase monitoring and use of sanctions by regulators.
The Brazilian Case of IFRS Adoption
Authors: Grecco Marta Cristina Pelucio , Geron Cecilia Moraes Santostaso
Published: March 2016

This chapter contains a brief history of accounting practices in Brazil, the Brazilian convergence process that resulted in using the IFRS, and new perspectives about the IFRS after implementation. In order to highlight the issues, it includes some empirical evidence and cases. The USGAAP served as the major influence on Brazilian accounting from 1978 to 2007. In 2008, the process of the IFRS convergence started in Brazil, resulting in an important culture change. For the local standardization, the Brazilian Accounting Pronouncements Committee, known as the CPC, was created, issuing its norms in compliance with IFRS with no modifications. Brazil has a history of tax legislation influencing its accounting practices, but the process of Brazilian convergence to the IFRS has incurred a detachment of accounting from tax policies for corporate purposes. The chapter concludes with a description of the current activities associated with the IFRS and financial reports, such as the development of the XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language) reporting standard.
The Effect of International Financial Reporting Standards Adoption on Foreign Direct Investment and the Economy
Authors: Boachie Christopher
Published: March 2016

This chapter examines the effect of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) adoption on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and Ghanaian economy. It is a cross sectional survey study, with the population consisting of both Preparers and Users of financial statements. Stratified Random sampling method was adopted to gather primary data. Findings showed that IFRS has been adopted in Ghana and it is perceived that IFRS implementation promotes FDI inflows and economic growth. This study recommends all stakeholders to have full implementation to reap benefits of the IFRS and principle - based standards. The implication is that preparers need to work on their skills and expertise gap through training and development and to ensure that these standards are included in the academic and professional curricula. Moreover, regulatory bodies should monitor and enforce these standards but where local content is needed, convergence should be the solution.
Challenges of Disinvestment in Public Sector Banks in India
Authors: Lalwani Sushil J. , Lalwani Shweta
Published: March 2016

Both Disinvestment and Privatization process in Public Sector Banks initiated by the then NDA Government came to an end soon after UPA Government took over. The Atal Bihari Vajpayee government had proposed to reduce government holding in state-run banks to 33% but the amendment could not be passed in Parliament as Congress, which was the main Opposition party, blocked the move. Later on Congress party with other partners came to power and even The Ministry of Disinvestment was closed .The recommendations of Disinvestment Commission could not be implemented. For last one decade disinvestment process came to a grinding halt, however, now again there are possibilities that Public Sector Banks may initiate the process again. Privatization process may seem to be a remote possibility at present, however, Disinvestment is on agenda of present government. The Government is now set to reduce shareholding to less than 52% while maintaining ownership but selling additional shares which will infuse more capital to fulfil capital adequacy norms as per Basel III. There are a number of challenges to this process and it is necessary to expedite the process. It is assumed that disinvestment process will make public sector banks more accountable and also efficiency may improve, ultimately pave way for privatization in near future.
A Selective Overview of Microswitch-Based Programs for Promoting Adaptive Behaviors of Children with Developmental Disabilities
Authors: Stasolla Fabrizio , Boccasini Adele , Perilli Viviana , Caffò Alessandro O. , Damiani Rita , Albano Vincenza
Published: March 2016

Assistive technology (AT) refers to any device, equipment and/or piece enabling children with developmental disabilities with self-determination and independence towards the outside world. Within this framework, microswitches represent electronic devices ensuring children with severe to profound developmental and/or multiple disabilities (i.e. a combination of intellectual, sensorial and motor impairments) to the independent access to preferred stimuli. This paper provides a selective overview of some illustrative examples available in the last fifteen years (i.e. 2000-2015) of the empirical evidences published on this topic. Overall, 35 studies were reviewed. Results were widely positive, although some failures occurred. Educational, psychological and rehabilitative implications of the findings were discussed.
Assassin's Creed and Transmedia Storytelling
Authors: Veugen Connie
Published: March 2016

Although, the term itself was coined more than ten years ago by Henry Jenkins, transmedia storytelling still needs to be researched as the terminology has proven to be multi-interpretable. Transmedia storytelling involving computer games is even less-well researched. This article will look into both issues. First it will take a critical look at transmedia storytelling to show the difference between it and other terms such as convergence, cross-media storytelling and radical intertextuality. Next, the article will look at the role of games in transmedia storytelling, focusing on the Assassin's Creed Desmond Saga to determine if games can be used as a narrative element in transmedia storytelling or if games are only a more active way to take part in the storyworld.
Comic Books, Video Games, and Transmedia Storytelling
Authors: Ecenbarger Charlie
Published: March 2016

This article illuminates the transmedia storytelling techniques in The Walking Dead comic book and video game. Telltale Games' The Walking Dead localizes itself within the comic book world of The Walking Dead by acting as a transmedia storytelling device and using intertextuality comics to assist game players with meaning-making. By participating in the game, Telltale rewards players with additional information about The Walking Dead universe, as well as creating a contingent but separate narrative that expands upon the existing Walking Dead world. This exploration of The Walking Dead offers insights into the specific methods that are being employed by creators to further engage the audience in the transmedia storyworld.
IL-1β and Inflammasome Activity Link Inflammation to Abnormal Fetal Airway Development
Authors: Stouch Ashley N. , McCoy Alyssa M. , Greer Rachel M. , Lakhdari Omar , Yull Fiona E. , Blackwell Timothy S. , Hoffman Hal M. , Prince Lawrence S.
Published: March 2016

Inflammation in the developing preterm lung leads to disrupted airway morphogenesis and chronic lung disease in human neonates. However, the molecular mechanisms linking inflammation and the pathways controlling airway morphogenesis remain unclear. In this article, we show that IL-1β released by activated fetal lung macrophages is the key inflammatory mediator that disrupts airway morphogenesis. In mouse lung explants, blocking IL-1β expression, posttranslational processing, and signaling protected the formation of new airways from the inhibitory effects of Escherichia coli LPS. Consistent with a critical role for IL-1β, mice expressing a gain-of-function Nlrp3 allele and subsequent overactive inflammasome activity displayed abnormal saccular-stage lung morphogenesis and died soon after birth. Although the early-stage fetal lung appeared capable of mounting an NF-κB–mediated immune response, airway formation became more sensitive to inflammation later in development. This period of susceptibility coincided with higher expression of multiple inflammasome components that could increase the ability to release bioactive IL-1β. Macrophages from Nlrp3 gain-of-function mice also expressed higher levels of more mature cell surface markers, additionally linking inflammasome activation with macrophage maturation. These data identify developmental expression of the inflammasome and IL-1β release by fetal lung macrophages as key mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets for neonatal lung disease.
Optical Tools To Study the Isoform-Specific Roles of Small GTPases in Immune Cells
Authors: Miskolci Veronika , Wu Bin , Moshfegh Yasmin , Cox Dianne , Hodgson Louis
Published: March 2016

Despite the 92% homology of the hematopoietic cell-specific Rac2 to the canonical isoform Rac1, these isoforms have been shown to play nonredundant roles in immune cells. To study isoform-specific dynamics of Rac in live cells, we developed a genetically encoded, single-chain FRET-based biosensor for Rac2. We also made significant improvements to our existing single-chain Rac1 biosensor. We optimized the biosensor constructs for facile expression in hematopoietic cells and performed functional validations in murine macrophage sublines of RAW264.7 cells. Rac2, Rac1, and Cdc42 have been implicated in the formation of actin-rich protrusions by macrophages, but their individual activation dynamics have not been previously characterized. We found that both Rac1 and Rac2 had similar activation kinetics, yet they had distinct spatial distributions in response to the exogenous stimulus, fMLF. Active Rac1 was mainly localized to the cell periphery, whereas active Rac2 was distributed throughout the cell, with an apparent higher concentration in the perinuclear region. We also performed an extensive morphodynamic analysis of Rac1, Rac2, and Cdc42 activities during the extension of random protrusions. We found that Rac2 appears to play a leading role in the generation of random protrusions, as we observed an initial strong activation of Rac2 in regions distal from the leading edge, followed by the activation of Rac1, a second burst of Rac2 and then Cdc42 immediately behind the leading edge. Overall, isoform-specific biosensors that have been optimized for expression should be valuable for interrogating the coordination of Rho family GTPase activities in living cells.
Betti numbers of random real hypersurfaces and determinants of random symmetric matrices
Authors: Gayet Damien , Welschinger Jean-Yves
Published: March 2016

We asymptotically estimate from above the expected Betti numbers of random real hypersurfaces in smooth real projective manifolds. Our upper bounds grow as the square root of the degree of the hypersurfaces as the latter grows to infinity, with a coefficient involving the Kählerian volume of the real locus of the manifold as well as the expected determinant of random real symmetric matrices of given index. In particular, for large dimensions, these coefficients get exponentially small away from mid-dimensional Betti numbers. In order to get these results, we first establish the equidistribution of the critical points of a given Morse function restricted to the random real hypersurfaces.
Coherent randomness tests and computing the $K$-trivial sets
Authors: Bienvenu Laurent , Greenberg Noam , Kučera Antonín , Nies André , Turetsky Dan
Published: March 2016

We introduce Oberwolfach randomness, a notion within Demuth's framework of statistical tests with moving components; here the components' movement has to be coherent across levels. We show that a ML-random set computes all

K

-trivial sets if and only if it is not Oberwolfach random, and indeed that there is a

K

-trivial set which is not computable from any Oberwolfach random set. We show that Oberwolfach random sets satisfy effective versions of almost-everywhere theorems of analysis, such as the Lebesgue density theorem and Doob's martingale convergence theorem. We also show that random sets which are not Oberwolfach random satisfy highness properties (such as LR-hardness) which mean they are close to computing the halting problem.

A consequence of these results is that a ML-random set failing the effective version of Lebesgue's density theorem for closed sets must compute all

K

-trivial sets. Combined with a recent result by Day and Miller, this gives a positive solution to the ML-covering problem of algorithmic randomness. On the other hand these results settle stronger variants of the covering problem in the negative: no low ML-random set computes all

K

-trivial sets, and not every

K

-trivial set is computable from both halves of a random set.
Simple zeros of degree 2 $L$-functions
Authors: Booker Andrew R.
Published: March 2016

We prove that the complete

L

-functions of classical holomorphic newforms have infinitely many simple zeros.
The geometric genus of hypersurface singularities
Authors: Némethi András , Sigurdsson Baldur
Published: March 2016

Using the path lattice cohomology we provide a conceptual topological characterization of the geometric genus for certain complex normal surface singularities with rational homology sphere links, which is uniformly valid for all superisolated and Newton non-degenerate hypersurface singularities.
Effect of straw size and microbial amendment of litter on certain litter quality parameters, ammonia emission, and footpad dermatitis in broilers
Authors: Đukić Stojčić Mirjana , Bjedov Siniša , Žikić Dragan , Perić Lidija , Milošević Niko
Published: March 2016

Abstract. This study was conducted to evaluate the impact of litter amendment (microbiological product – Micropan complex) and straw size (unchopped and chopped straw) on pH, moisture level, ammonia emission, and footpad dermatitis in broilers. A total of 1200 1-day-old Ross 308 broilers were randomly allocated to four treatments (2  ×  2 factorial arrangement), with four replicates per treatment. Each replicate consisted of 75 as-hatched birds per pen. The first factor consisted of wheat straw – chopped (C) or unchopped (U) – and the second factor was the litter amendment with (WM) or without (OM) Micropan® (enzymatic bacterial product – Eurovix, USA). At 4, 5, and 6 weeks of the trial, the levels of ammonia concentration, moisture content, and pH of litter in each pen were measured. The foot pad lesions were evaluated at 21, 35, and 42 days of age. Broilers reared on chopped straw had significantly better leg condition as expressed by a smaller incidence and severity of footpad dermatitis. The pH value of litter was decreased and footpad quality was significantly improved by Micropan application in broilers kept on chopped and unchopped straw in the sixth week of age. There was no significant effect of Micropan application and straw size on ammonia emission in broiler housing.
Size distributions of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in urban atmosphere: sorption mechanism and source contributions to respiratory deposition
Authors: Lv Yan , Li Xiang , Xu Ting Ting , Cheng Tian Tao , Yang Xin , Chen Jian Min , Iinuma Yoshiteru , Herrmann Hartmut
Published: March 2016

Abstract. In order to better understand the particle size distribution of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and their source contribution to human respiratory system, size-resolved PAHs have been studied in ambient aerosols at a megacity Shanghai site during a 1-year period (2012–2013). The results showed the PAHs had a bimodal distribution with one mode peak in the fine-particle size range (0.4–2.1 µm) and another mode peak in the coarse-particle size range (3.3–9.0 µm). Along with the increase in ring number of PAHs, the intensity of the fine-mode peak increased, while the coarse-mode peak decreased. Plotting of log(PAH / PM) against log(Dp) showed that all slope values were above −1, suggesting that multiple mechanisms (adsorption and absorption) controlled the particle size distribution of PAHs. The total deposition flux of PAHs in the respiratory tract was calculated as being 8.8 ± 2.0 ng h−1. The highest lifetime cancer risk (LCR) was estimated at 1.5  ×  10−6, which exceeded the unit risk of 10−6. The LCR values presented here were mainly influenced by accumulation mode PAHs which came from biomass burning (24 %), coal combustion (25 %), and vehicular emission (27 %). The present study provides us with a mechanistic understanding of the particle size distribution of PAHs and their transport in the human respiratory system, which can help develop better source control strategies.
Source apportionment and dynamic changes of carbonaceous aerosols during the haze bloom-decay process in China based on radiocarbon and organic molecular tracers
Authors: Liu Junwen , Li Jun , Liu Di , Ding Ping , Shen Chengde , Mo Yangzhi , Wang Xinming , Luo Chunling , Cheng Zhineng , Szidat Sönke , Zhang Yanlin , Chen Yingjun , Zhang Gan
Published: March 2016

Abstract. Fine carbonaceous aerosols (CAs) is the key factor influencing the currently filthy air in megacities in China, yet few studies simultaneously focus on the origins of different CAs species using specific and powerful source tracers. Here, we present a detailed source apportionment for various CAs fractions, including organic carbon (OC), water-soluble OC (WSOC), water-insoluble OC (WIOC), elemental carbon (EC) and secondary OC (SOC) in the largest cities of North (Beijing, BJ) and South China (Guangzhou, GZ), using the measurements of radiocarbon and anhydrosugars. Results show that non-fossil fuel sources such as biomass burning and biogenic emission make a significant contribution to the total CAs in Chinese megacities: 56 ± 4 in BJ and 46 ± 5 % in GZ, respectively. The relative contributions of primary fossil carbon from coal and liquid petroleum combustions, primary non-fossil carbon and secondary organic carbon (SOC) to total carbon are 19, 28 and 54 % in BJ, and 40, 15 and 46 % in GZ, respectively. Non-fossil fuel sources account for 52 in BJ and 71 % in GZ of SOC, respectively. These results suggest that biomass burning has a greater influence on regional particulate air pollution in North China than in South China. We observed an unabridged haze bloom-decay process in South China, which illustrates that both primary and secondary matter from fossil sources played a key role in the blooming phase of the pollution episode, while haze phase is predominantly driven by fossil-derived secondary organic matter and nitrate.
The impact of phenomena El Niño and La Niña and other environmental factors on episodes of acute diarrhoea disease in the population of Aguascalientes, Mexico: a case study
Authors: Venegas-Pérez Martha Esthela , Ramírez-López Elsa Marcela , López-Santos Armando , Magaña-Rueda Víctor Orlando , Avelar-González Francisco Javier
Published: March 2016

Abstract. Acute diarrhoea diseases (ADDs) are one of the major health problems in Aguascalientes, Mexico. Due to the risk of significant increases of ADDs in the hot season, it has been necessary to determine the weather conditions that might lead to escalating ADD events. The effects of El Niño and La Niña phenomena on the morbidity rate of ADD (MRADD) in the State of Aguascalientes were determined during the period of 2000–2010. The MRADD was calculated from cases reported by the State Health Department. The Oceanic Niño Index (ONI) was obtained from the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The impact of El Niño and La Niña on the MRADD was determined using the Pearson correlation coefficient and analysis of variance (ANOVA). The results gave a significant inverse correlation between El Niño phenomenon and MRADD (r = −0.55, P = 0.001), but a correlation was not observed on the La Niña phenomenon (r = −0.022, P = 0.888). Field data showed significant inverse influence of El Niño on MRADD for the years 2000–2010.
An update on the uncertainties of water vapor measurements using Cryogenic Frostpoint Hygrometers
Authors: Vömel Holger , Naebert Tatjana. , Dirksen Ruud , Sommer Michael
Published: March 2016

Abstract. Long time series of observations of essential climate variables in the troposphere and stratosphere are often impacted by inconsistencies in instrumentation and ambiguities in the interpretation of the data. To reduce these problems of long term data series all measurements should include an estimate of their uncertainty and a description of their sources. Here we present an update of the uncertainties for tropospheric and stratospheric water vapor observations using the Cryogenic Frostpoint Hygrometer (CFH). The largest source of measurement uncertainty is the controller stability, which is discussed here in detail. We describe a method to quantify this uncertainty for each profile based on the measurements. We also show the importance of a manufacturer independent ground check, which is an essential tool to continuously monitor the uncertainty introduced by instrument variability. A small bias, which has previously been indicated in lower tropospheric measurements, is described here in detail and has been rectified. Under good conditions the total from all sources of uncertainty of frostpoint or dewpoint measurements using the CFH can be better than 0.2 K. Systematic errors, which are most likely to impact long term climate series are verified to be less than 0.1 K.
Three-dimensional distribution of fine particulate matter concentrations and synchronous meteorological data measured by an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) in Yangtze River Delta, China
Authors: Lu Si-Jia , Wang Dongsheng , Li Xiao-Bing , Wang Zhanyong , Gao Ya , Peng Zhong-Ren
Published: March 2016

Abstract. Three-dimensional distribution of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and meteorological factors are of great importance to clarify the formation mechanism of haze pollution and to help forecast atmospheric pollution under different meteorological conditions. The objective of this study was to measure PM2.5 concentrations and meteorological data at 300–1000 m altitude using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) equipped with mobile instruments. The study was conducted in a 4 × 4 km2 space in Lin'an, Yangtze River Delta (YRD), China. The UAV was operated repeatedly for four times in one day along the designed route spirally from the ground to 1000 m altitude with a total of 8 layers and a 100 m interval between two adjacent layers for five days from 21th August 2014 to 2nd February 2015. PM2.5, air temperature, relative humidity, dew point temperature and air pressure were measured during the data collection. The study results indicated that the PM2.5 concentrations decreased with altitude at 300–1000 m and the variations of PM2.5 with altitude in morning flights were much bigger than in afternoon flights. Besides, the PM2.5 concentration levels in morning flights were generally lower than in afternoon flights. PM2.5 concentrations were positively correlated with dew point temperature and pressure, but positively correlated with relative humidity only on pollution days in autumn or winter. The vertical gradient of PM2.5 concentrations was small in pollution days compared with on clean days. These findings provide the key theoretical foundation for PM2.5 pollution forecast and environmental management.
Optimal site selection for a high-resolution ice core record in East Antarctica
Authors: Vance Tessa R. , Roberts Jason L. , Moy Andrew D. , Curran Mark A. J. , Tozer Carly R. , Gallant Ailie J. E. , Abram Nerilie J. , van Ommen Tas D. , Young Duncan A. , Grima Cyril , Blankenship Don D. , Siegert Martin J.
Published: March 2016

Abstract. Ice cores provide some of the best-dated and most comprehensive proxy records, as they yield a vast and growing array of proxy indicators. Selecting a site for ice core drilling is nonetheless challenging, as the assessment of potential new sites needs to consider a variety of factors. Here, we demonstrate a systematic approach to site selection for a new East Antarctic high-resolution ice core record. Specifically, seven criteria are considered: (1) 2000-year-old ice at 300 m depth; (2) above 1000 m elevation; (3) a minimum accumulation rate of 250 mm years−1 IE (ice equivalent); (4) minimal surface reworking to preserve the deposited climate signal; (5) a site with minimal displacement or elevation change in ice at 300 m depth; (6) a strong teleconnection to midlatitude climate; and (7) an appropriately complementary relationship to the existing Law Dome record (a high-resolution record in East Antarctica). Once assessment of these physical characteristics identified promising regions, logistical considerations (for site access and ice core retrieval) were briefly considered. We use Antarctic surface mass balance syntheses, along with ground-truthing of satellite data by airborne radar surveys to produce all-of-Antarctica maps of surface roughness, age at specified depth, elevation and displacement change, and surface air temperature correlations to pinpoint promising locations. We also use the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecast ERA 20th Century reanalysis (ERA-20C) to ensure that a site complementary to the Law Dome record is selected. We find three promising sites in the Indian Ocean sector of East Antarctica in the coastal zone from Enderby Land to the Ingrid Christensen Coast (50–100° E). Although we focus on East Antarctica for a new ice core site, the methodology is more generally applicable, and we include key parameters for all of Antarctica which may be useful for ice core site selection elsewhere and/or for other purposes.
Remote sensing of chlorophyll in the Baltic Sea at basin scale from 1997 to 2012 using merged multi-sensor data
Authors: Pitarch Jaime , Volpe Gianluca , Colella Simone , Krasemann Hajo , Santoleri Rosalia
Published: March 2016

Abstract. A 15-year (1997–2012) time series of chlorophyll a (Chl a) in the Baltic Sea, based on merged multi-sensor satellite data was analysed. Several available Chl a algorithms were sea-truthed against the largest in situ publicly available Chl a data set ever used for calibration and validation over the Baltic region. To account for the known biogeochemical heterogeneity of the Baltic, matchups were calculated for three separate areas: (1) the Skagerrak and Kattegat, (2) the central Baltic, including the Baltic Proper and the gulfs of Riga and Finland, and (3) the Gulf of Bothnia. Similarly, within the operational context of the Copernicus Marine Environment Monitoring Service (CMEMS) the three areas were also considered as a whole in the analysis. In general, statistics showed low linearity. However, a bootstrapping-like assessment did provide the means for removing the bias from the satellite observations, which were then used to compute basin average time series. Resulting climatologies confirmed that the three regions display completely different Chl a seasonal dynamics. The Gulf of Bothnia displays a single Chl a peak during spring, whereas in the Skagerrak and Kattegat the dynamics are less regular and composed of highs and lows during winter, progressing towards a small bloom in spring and a minimum in summer. In the central Baltic, Chl a follows a dynamics of a mild spring bloom followed by a much stronger bloom in summer. Surface temperature data are able to explain a variable fraction of the intensity of the summer bloom in the central Baltic.
X-Ray CT analyses, models and numerical simulations – a comparison with common analytical methods of an experimental CO2 study
Authors: Henkel Steven , Pudlo Dieter , Enzmann Frieder , Reitenbach Viktor , Albrecht Daniel , Ganzer Leonhard , Gaupp Reinhard
Published: March 2016

Abstract. An essential part of the collaborative research project H2STORE ("hydrogen to store"), which is founded by the German government, was a comparison of various analytical methods to characterize reservoir sandstones from different stratigraphic units. In this context Permian, Triassic and Tertiary reservoir sandstones were analysed. Rock core materials, provided by RWE Gasspeicher GmbH (Dortmund), GFD Suez E&P Deutschland GmbH (Lingen), E.ON Gas Storage GmbH (Essen) and RAG Rohöl-Aufsuchungs Aktiengesellschaft (Wien), was processed by different laboratory techniques; thin sections were prepared, rock fragments were crushed, cubes of 1 cm edge length and plugs of 5 cm in length were sawn from macroscopic homogenous cores. With this prepared sample material, polarized light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy – coupled with image analyses, specific surface area measurements (BET), He-porosity and N2-permeability measurements and high resolution micro-computer-tomography (µ-CT), which were used for numerical simulations were conducted. All these methods were applied to most of the same sample material, before and after static CO2 experiments under reservoir conditions. A major concern in comparing the results of these methods is an appraisal of the reliability of the given porosity, permeability and mineral specific reactive (inner) surface areas data. The CO2 experiments are modifying the petrophysical as well the mineralogical/geochemical rock properties. These changes are detectable by all applied analytical methods. Nevertheless, a major outcome of the high resolution µ-CT analyses and proceeded numerical data simulations results in quite similar data sets and data interpretations maintained by the different standard methods; even regarding only CT-single scan of the rock samples. Moreover, this technique is not only time saving, but also none destructive. This is an important point, if only minor sample material is available and a detailed comparison before and after the experimental tests on micro meter, pore scale of specific rock features is envisaged.
On the mechanical behaviour of a low angle normal fault: the Altotiberina fault (Northern Apennines, Italy) system case study
Authors: Vadacca Luigi , Casarotti Emanuele , Chiaraluce Lauro , Cocco Massimo
Published: March 2016

Abstract. Geological and seismological observations have been used to parameterize 2D numerical models to simulate the interseismic deformation of a complex extensional fault system located in the Northern Apennines (Italy). The geological system is dominated by the presence of the Altotiberina fault (ATF), a large (60 km along strike) low-angle normal fault 20° dipping in the brittle crust (0–15 km). The ATF is currently interested by a high and constant rate of microseismic activity and no moderate-to-large magnitude earthquakes have been associated to it for the past 1000 years. Modelling results have been compared with GPS data in order to understand the mechanical behaviour of this fault and a suite of minor syn- and antithetic normal fault segments located in the main fault hanging-wall. The results of the simulations demonstrate the active role played by the Altotiberina fault in accommodating the on going tectonic extension in this sector of the chain. The GPS velocity profile constructed through the fault system cannot be explained without including the ATF's contribution to deformation, indicating that this fault although misoriented has to be considered tectonically active and with a creeping behaviour below 5 km of depth. The low angle normal fault also shows a high degree of tectonic coupling with its main antithetic fault (the Gubbio fault) suggesting that creeping along the ATF may control the observed strain localization and the pattern of microseismic activity.
Modeling the contributing factors of desertification and evaluating their relationships to the soil degradation process through geomatic techniques
Authors: Shoba P. , Ramakrishnan S. S.
Published: March 2016

Abstract. Desertification is a prolonged type of land degradation which converts the productive ecosystem to a fragile one by two crucial factors, namely, climate and negative human intrusion. The present study concentrates on identifying the causative factors of desertification, namely temperature, wind, rainfall scarcity and human pressure. It also concentrates on distinguishing the desertified land from degraded land and assessing the way in which the soil degradation process becomes accelerated by these factors, by employing data sets such as meteorological data and Landsat ETM+ (Enhanced Thematic Mapper) and OLI (Operational Land Imager) satellite images of the crop-growing period (June–October) in geostatistical methods and newly proposed remote sensing models, which yielded good accuracy with in situ observations (R2 = 0.8). The study was centered on two time periods, 2001–2011 (11 years) and 2012–2015 (4 years). In rainfall–temperature/drought-induced desertified region, the rate of salt-affected soils increased significantly from 12 to 58 % (2001–2015) due to the presence of native fluoride concentration and extreme temperature events. The region has also been experiencing high soil moisture stress (5 to 33 %) because of the insufficient occurrence of rainfall over a period of time. A longer term exacerbation of soil moisture stress (19 to 90 %) has been noted in the areas that were susceptible to wind-induced desertification, due to a high evaporation rate caused by extreme wind events for a substantial period. High human-induced soil salinity (36 %), human occupancy (16 %), followed by moisture stress (7 %) are observed in the human-affected region because of growing population and improper land management of the land that is already fragile.
Strain localization in ultramylonitic marbles by simultaneous activation of dislocation motion and grain boundary sliding (Syros, Greece)
Authors: Rogowitz A. , White J. C. , Grasemann B.
Published: March 2016

Abstract. Extreme strain localization occurred in the centre of the cross-cutting element of a flanking structure in almost pure calcite marbles from Syros, Greece. At the maximum displacement of 120 cm along the cross-cutting element, evidence of grain size sensitive deformation mechanisms can be found in the ultramylonitic marbles, which are characterized by (1) an extremely small grain size ( ∼  3 µm), (2) grain boundary triple junctions with nearly 120° angles, (3) a weak crystallographic preferred orientation with very low texture index (J = 1.4), (4) a random misorientation angle distribution curve and (5) the presence of small cavities. Using transmission electron microscopy, a deformation sequence is observed comprising recrystallization dominantly by bulging, resulting in the development of the fine-grained ultramylonite followed by the development of a high dislocation density ( ∼  1013 m−2) with ongoing deformation of the fine-grained ultramylonite. The arrangement of dislocations in the extremely fine-grain-sized calcite differs from microstructures created by classical dislocation creep mediated by combined glide and thermally activated climb. Instead, it exhibits extensive glide and dislocation networks characteristic of recovery accommodated by cross-slip and network-assisted dislocation movement without formation of idealized subgrain walls. The enabling of grain boundary sliding to dislocation activity is deemed central to initiating and sustaining strain softening and is argued to be an important strain localization process in calcite rocks, even at a high strain rate ( ∼  10−9 s−1) and low temperature (300 °C).
Recent summer sea ice thickness surveys in Fram Strait and associated ice volume fluxes
Authors: Krumpen T. , Gerdes R. , Haas C. , Hendricks S. , Herber A. , Selyuzhenok V. , Smedsrud L. , Spreen G.
Published: March 2016

Abstract. Fram Strait is the main gateway for sea ice export out of the Arctic Ocean, and therefore observations there give insight into the composition and properties of Arctic sea ice in general and how it varies over time. A data set of ground-based and airborne electromagnetic ice thickness measurements collected during summer between 2001 and 2012 is presented here, including long transects well into the southern part of the Transpolar Drift obtained using fixed-wing aircrafts. The primary source of the surveyed sea ice leaving Fram Strait is the Laptev Sea and its age has decreased from 3 to 2 years between 1990 and 2012. The thickness data consistently also show a general thinning of sea ice for the last decade, with a decrease in modal thickness of second year and multiyear ice, and a decrease in mean thickness and fraction of ice thicker than 3 m. Local melting in the strait was investigated in two surveys performed in the downstream direction, showing a decrease in sea ice thickness of 0.19 m degree−1 latitude south of 81° N. Further north variability in ice thickness is more related to differences in age and deformation. The thickness observations were combined with ice area export estimates to calculate summer volume fluxes of sea ice. While satellite data show that monthly ice area export had positive trends since 1980 (10.9  ×  103 km2 decade−1), the summer (July and August) ice area export is low with high uncertainties. The average volume export amounts to 16.78 km3. Naturally, the volume flux estimates are limited to the period when airborne thickness surveys are available. Nevertheless, we could show that the combination of satellite data and airborne observations can be used to determine volume fluxes through Fram Strait and as such, can be used to bridge the lack of satellite-based sea ice thickness information in summer.
EFFECT OF SULFUR TO ACCELERATOR RATIO ON CROSSLINK STRUCTURE, REVERSION, AND STRENGTH IN NATURAL RUBBER
Authors: Boonkerd Kanoktip , Deeprasertkul Chudej , Boonsomwong Kanyarat
Published: March 2016

A new relationship among the sulfur to accelerator (S/A) ratio, the degree of reversion or the net loss of crosslinks at the prolonged cure time, and the tensile strength and crosslink structure of gum natural rubber (NR) vulcanizates is described here. To study this, N,N-dicyclohexyl-2-benzothiazole sulfenamide (DCBS), N-cyclohexyl-2-benzothiazole sulfenamide (CBS), 2,2′-dithiobisbenzothiazole (MBTS), and tetrabenzylthiuram disulfide (TBzTD) were used as accelerators. The results showed that for all four tested accelerators, the degree of reversion and tensile strength of the vulcanizates did not simply increase with increasing S/A ratios within the range of 0.26–6.67 by weight. This was because the proportion of polysulfidic linkages playing an important role on these properties was not simply proportional to the S/A ratios but turned out to pass through a maximum and then decline with further increasing S/A ratios for the DCBS, CBS, and MBTS cure systems. Nevertheless, when considering the effect of crosslink structure on the thermal and mechanical properties, it was observed that for all four tested accelerators, the increase in the extent of polysulfidic linkages gave the vulcanizate with the lower reversion resistance but the higher tensile strength. Therefore, the generalization that it is the high concentration of polysulfidic linkages in the network that causes a decrease in the reversion resistance but an increase in the tensile strength is seemingly still applicable.
Permanent Arteriovenous Fistula or Catheter Dialysis for Heart Failure Patients
Authors: Roca-Tey Ramon
Published: March 2016

Heart failure (HF) is the most frequent cardiovascular disease associated with chronic kidney disease and represents a high risk for cardiovascular mortality in incident hemodialysis (HD) patients. This risk is especially high during the arteriovenous fistula (AVF) maturation period due to the marked hemodynamic changes related to the large increase in the blood flow and also within the first 120 days after HD inception because in this period the highest mortality rate occurs. When planning the vascular access for each incident HF patient, the risk of aggravating HF after AVF creation must be evaluated carefully alongside the risk of catheter-related complications, but avoiding a non-selective ‘catheter first’ approach for all these patients. HF patients classified within the New York Heart Association (NYHA) Class I-II and the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) Stage A-B could initiate HD through a distal arm AVF. High-flow brachial artery-based AVF creation must be avoided because it displays the highest risk of worsening the cardiac function. The decision for AVF creation or tunneled central catheter placement in HF patients classified within the NYHA Class III and the ACC/AHA Stage C must have been individualized according the degree of systolic and/or diastolic dysfunction. HF patients with significant reduction in systolic function (ejection fraction lower than 30%) or classified within the NYHA Class IV and the ACC/AHA Stage D, are candidates for tunneled catheter placement to start HD treatment.
Early Cannulation of the Flixene™ Arteriovenous Graft
Authors: Ottaviani Nicolas , Deglise Sébastien , Brizzi Vincenzo , Ducasse Eric , Midy Dominique , Rigothier Claire , Saucy François , Berard Xavier
Published: March 2016

Purpose

The aim of this review was to search for evidence of the efficiency of early cannulation of the Flixene™ (Maquet-Atrium Medical, Hudson, NH, USA) arteriovenous graft (AVG) in the current literature and to assess its patency and complication rates.

Methods

Searches in Pubmed, Medline, Embase and the Cochrane Library were performed using the following specific search terms: early cannulation AVG and/or Flixene™ graft. The primary outcomes were mean time to first cannulation and patency rates at 12 months. Secondary outcomes were complications.

Results

Six studies reporting outcomes in a total of 260 procedures were included in this review. The median delay from intervention to first cannulation was documented in four studies and was less than 3 days. Primary assisted patency at 12 months ranged from 45% to 53% in the four documented series. In five studies, documented secondary patency at 12 months ranged from 63% to 92%. Two studies compared outcomes between traditional and Flixene™ grafts: one study reported significantly (p<0.01) improved one-year patency using the Flixene™ graft, the two studies did not report significant differences in complication rates between both groups. The rate of infection and pseudo-aneurysm formation ranged from 0 to 11% and 0 to 6%, respectively.

Conclusions

This review shows that early cannulation of the Flixene™ graft within 3 days following its implantation is feasible with one-year patency and complication rates equivalent to those of conventional grafts which can be cannulated only after 2 weeks.
Heparin-Bonded Expanded Polytetrafluorethylene Grafts in Hemodialysis Access
Authors: Olsha Oded , Goldin Ilya , Shemesh David
Published: March 2016

When options for autologous arteriovenous (AV) fistulas have been fully exhausted, AV grafts continue to play an important role in access creation for hemodialysis, offering long-term hemodialysis access that is a better alternative to central vein catheters. The drawbacks of AV grafts are their poor patency, infection and higher cost. Their main advantages are that they are widely available, are easy to create, and mature early. In the context of the “Fistula First” initiative, many patients with low quality veins suffer from fistula failure and non-maturation resulting in prolonged catheter days that would otherwise be prevented by initial creation of an AV graft. Endeavors to improve graft patency include administration of pharmacological agents, changing graft configuration, altering graft biology, and altering the graft surface. In this review, the current status of heparin-bonded AV grafts for hemodialysis is discussed.
Access Flow Reduction for Cardiac Failure
Authors: Bourquelot Pierre
Published: March 2016

High-flow in hemodialysis arteriovenous angioaccesses is frequent. It may result in high-output cardiac failure, which should be prevented by fistula flow reduction. The most frequently reported flow reduction procedure is banding but immediate and long-term results are questionable. Alternative techniques are related here with personal results. Juxta-anastomosis “Proximal Radial Artery Ligation” (PRAL) is a very simple and effective reduction technique for side-to-end radio-cephalic fistulas (82 patients; reduction rate [RR]: 54% ± 19%). For brachial artery-based fistulas flow reduction two variants of Revision Using Distal Inflow (RUDI) procedures are used: 1) RUDI-1 using a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) graft or a greater saphenous vein, which we first described in 1989 as “Distal Report of the Arterial Inflow” (35 patients; RR: 53% ± 18%), 2) RUDI-2 procedure, “Transposition of the Radial Artery”, which we described in 2009 (47 patients; RR: 66% ± 14%).
Graft Modification Strategies to Improve Patency of Prosthetic Arteriovenous Grafts for Hemodialysis
Authors: Moufarrej Andrew , Tordoir Jan , Mees Barend
Published: March 2016

Prosthetic arteriovenous grafts (AVGs) are indicated for vascular access for long-term hemodialysis in patients in whom creation or maintenance of an arteriovenous fistula (AVF) has failed or is contraindicated. AVGs have an inferior long-term patency as compared to AVFs. To ameliorate patency rates of prosthetic AVGs, different strategies have emerged to improve graft materials. This review aims to describe current strategies and future perspectives on graft modification, by graft geometry, drug coatings and graft surface technology, to improve AVG patency.