bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An improved algorithm for cloud base detection by ceilometer over the ice sheets
Authors: Van Tricht K. , Gorodetskaya I. V. , Lhermitte S. , Turner D. D. , Schween J. H. , Van Lipzig N. P. M.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. Optically thin ice clouds play an important role in polar regions due to their effect on cloud radiative impact and precipitation on the surface. Cloud bases can be detected by lidar-based ceilometers that run continuously and therefore have the potential to provide basic cloud statistics including cloud frequency, base height and vertical structure. Despite their importance, thin clouds are however not well detected by the standard cloud base detection algorithm of most ceilometers operational at Arctic and Antarctic stations. This paper presents the Polar Threshold (PT) algorithm that was developed to detect optically thin hydrometeor layers (optical depth τ ≥ 0.01). The PT algorithm detects the first hydrometeor layer in a vertical attenuated backscatter profile exceeding a predefined threshold in combination with noise reduction and averaging procedures. The optimal backscatter threshold of 3 × 10−4 km−1 sr−1 for cloud base detection was objectively derived based on a sensitivity analysis using data from Princess Elisabeth, Antarctica and Summit, Greenland. The algorithm defines cloudy conditions as any atmospheric profile containing a hydrometeor layer at least 50 m thick. A comparison with relative humidity measurements from radiosondes at Summit illustrates the algorithm's ability to significantly differentiate between clear sky and cloudy conditions. Analysis of the cloud statistics derived from the PT algorithm indicates a year-round monthly mean cloud cover fraction of 72% at Summit without a seasonal cycle. The occurrence of optically thick layers, indicating the presence of supercooled liquid, shows a seasonal cycle at Summit with a monthly mean summer peak of 40%. The monthly mean cloud occurrence frequency in summer at Princess Elisabeth is 47%, which reduces to 14% for supercooled liquid cloud layers. Our analyses furthermore illustrate the importance of optically thin hydrometeor layers located near the surface for both sites, with 87% of all detections below 500 m for Summit and 80% below 2 km for Princess Elisabeth. These results have implications for using satellite-based remotely sensed cloud observations, like CloudSat, that may be insensitive for hydrometeors near the surface. The results of this study highlight the potential of the PT algorithm to extract information in polar regions about a wide range of hydrometeor types from measurements by the robust and relatively low-cost ceilometer instrument.
Finding immune gene expression differences induced by marine bacterial pathogens in the Deep-sea hydrothermal vent mussel Bathymodiolus azoricus
Authors: Martins E. , Queiroz A. , Serrão Santos R. , Bettencourt R.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. The deep-sea hydrothermal vent mussel Bathymodiolus azoricus lives in a natural environment characterised by extreme conditions of hydrostatic pressure, temperature, pH, high concentrations of heavy metals, methane and hydrogen sulphide. The deep-sea vent biological systems represent thus the opportunity to study and provide new insights into the basic physiological principles that govern the defense mechanisms in vent animals and to understand how they cope with microbial infections. Hence, the importance of understanding this animal's innate defense mechanisms, by examining its differential immune gene expressions toward different pathogenic agents. In the present study, B. azoricus mussels were infected with single suspensions of marine bacterial pathogens, consisting of Vibrio splendidus, Vibrio alginolyticus, or Vibrio anguillarum, and a pool of these Vibrio bacteria. Flavobacterium suspensions were also used as a non-pathogenic bacterium. Gene expression analyses were carried out using gill samples from infected animals by means of quantitative-Polymerase Chain Reaction aimed at targeting several immune genes. We also performed SDS-PAGE protein analyses from the same gill tissues. We concluded that there are different levels of immune gene expression between the 12 h to 24 h exposure times to various bacterial suspensions. Our results from qPCR demonstrated a general pattern of gene expression, decreasing from 12 h over 24 h post-infection. Among the bacteria tested, Flavobacterium is the bacterium inducing the highest gene expression level in 12 h post-infections animals. The 24 h infected animals revealed, however, greater gene expression levels, using V. splendidus as the infectious agent. The SDS-PAGE analysis also pointed at protein profile differences between 12 h and 24 h, particularly evident for proteins of 18–20 KDa molecular mass, where most dissimilarity was found. Multivariate analyses demonstrated that immune genes, as well as experimental infections, clustered in discrete groups in accordance with the gene expression patterns induced by bacterial pathogens.
The initiation of Neoproterozoic "snowball" climates in CCSM3: the influence of paleocontinental configuration
Authors: Liu Y. , Peltier W. R. , Yang J. , Vettoretti G.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. We identify the "hard snowball" bifurcation point at which total sea-ice cover of the oceans is expected by employing the comprehensive coupled climate model CCSM3 (Community Climate System Model version 3) for two realistic Neoproterozoic continental configurations, namely a low-latitude configuration appropriate for the 720 Ma Sturtian glaciation and a higher southern latitude configuration reconstructed for 570 Ma but which has often been employed in the past to study the later 635 Ma Marinoan glaciation. Contrary to previous suggestions, we find that for the same total solar insolation (TSI) and atmospheric CO2 concentration (pCO2), the 570 Ma continental configuration is characterized by colder climate than the 720 Ma continental configuration and enters the hard snowball state more easily on account of the following three factors: the higher effective albedo of the snow-covered land compared to that of sea ice, the more negative net cloud forcing near the ice front in the Northern Hemisphere (NH), and, more importantly, the more efficient sea-ice transport towards the Equator in the NH due to the absence of blockage by continents. Beside the paleogeography, we also find the optical depth of aerosol to have a significant influence on this important bifurcation point. When the high value (recommended by CCSM3 but demonstrated to be a significant overestimate) is employed, the critical values of pCO2, beyond which a hard snowball will be realized, are between 80 and 90 ppmv (sea-ice fraction 55%) and between 140 and 150 ppmv (sea-ice fraction 50%) for the Sturtian and Marinoan continental configurations, respectively. However, if a lower value is employed that enables the model to approximately reproduce the present-day climate, then the critical values of pCO2 become 50–60 ppmv (sea-ice fraction 57%) and 100–110 ppmv (sea-ice fraction 48%) for the two continental configurations, respectively. All of these values are higher than previously obtained for the present-day geography (17–35 ppmv) using the same model, primarily due to the absence of vegetation, which increases the surface albedo, but are much lower than that obtained previously for the Marinoan continental configuration using the ECHAM5/MPI-OM model in its standard configuration (~500 ppmv). However, when the sea-ice albedo in that model was reduced from 0.75 to a more appropriate value of 0.45, the critical pCO2 becomes ~204 ppmv, closer to the values obtained here. Our results are similar to those obtained with the present-day geography (70–100 ppmv) when the most recent version of the NCAR model, CCSM4, was employed.
High-resolution glacial and deglacial record of atmospheric methane by continuous-flow and laser spectrometer analysis along the NEEM ice core
Authors: Chappellaz J. , Stowasser C. , Blunier T. , Baslev-Clausen D. , Brook E. J. , Dallmayr R. , Faïn X. , Lee J. E. , Mitchell L. E. , Pascual O. , Romanini D. , Rosen J. , Schüpbach S.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. The Greenland NEEM (North Greenland Eemian Ice Drilling) operation in 2010 provided the first opportunity to combine trace-gas measurements by laser spectroscopic instruments and continuous-flow analysis along a freshly drilled ice core in a field-based setting. We present the resulting atmospheric methane (CH4) record covering the time period from 107.7 to 9.5 ka b2k (thousand years before 2000 AD). Companion discrete CH4 measurements are required to transfer the laser spectroscopic data from a relative to an absolute scale. However, even on a relative scale, the high-resolution CH4 data set significantly improves our knowledge of past atmospheric methane concentration changes. New significant sub-millennial-scale features appear during interstadials and stadials, generally associated with similar changes in water isotopic ratios of the ice, a proxy for local temperature. In addition to the midpoint of Dansgaard–Oeschger (D/O) CH4 transitions usually used for cross-dating, sharp definition of the start and end of these events brings precise depth markers (with ±20 cm uncertainty) for further cross-dating with other palaeo- or ice core records, e.g. speleothems. The method also provides an estimate of CH4 rates of change. The onsets of D/O events in the methane signal show a more rapid rate of change than their endings. The rate of CH4 increase associated with the onsets of D/O events progressively declines from 1.7 to 0.6 ppbv yr−1 in the course of marine isotope stage 3. The largest observed rate of increase takes place at the onset of D/O event #21 and reaches 2.5 ppbv yr−1.
Impact of potential and (scintillometer-based) actual evapotranspiration estimates on the performance of a lumped rainfall–runoff model
Authors: Samain B. , Pauwels V. R. N.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. Evapotranspiration (ET) plays a key role in hydrological impact studies and operational flood forecasting models as ET represents a loss of water from a catchment. Although ET is a major component of the catchment water balance, the evapotranspiration input for rainfall–runoff models is often simplified in contrast to the detailed estimates of catchment averaged precipitation. In this study, an existing conceptual rainfall–runoff model calibrated for and operational in the Bellebeek catchment in Belgium firstly has been validated and its sensitivity to different available potential ET input has been studied. It has been shown that when applying a calibrated rainfall–runoff model, the model input should be consistent with the input used for the calibration process, not only on the volume of ET, but also on the seasonal pattern. Secondly, estimates of the actual evapotranspiration based on measurements of a large aperture scintillometer (LAS) have been used as model forcing in the rainfall–runoff model. From this analysis, it has been shown that the actual evapotranspiration is a crucial factor in simulating the catchment water balance and the resulting stream flow. Regarding the actual evapotranspiration estimates from the LAS, it has been concluded that they can be considered realistic in summer months. In the months where stable conditions prevail (autumn, winter and (early) spring), an underestimation of the actual evapotranspiration is made, which has an important impact on the catchment's water balance.
Determining slack tide with a GPS receiver on an anchored buoy
Authors: Valk M. , Savenije H. H. G. , Tiberius C. C. J. M. , Luxemburg W. M. J.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. In this paper we present a novel method to determine the time of occurrence of tidal slack with a GPS receiver mounted on an anchored buoy commonly used to delineate shipping lanes in estuaries and tidal channels. Slack tide occurs when the tide changes direction from ebb to flood flow, or from flood to ebb. The determination of this point in time is not only useful for shipping and salvaging, it is also important information for calibrating tidal models, for determining the maximum salt intrusion and for the further refinement of the theory on tidal propagation. The accuracy of the timing is well within 10 min and the method – able to operate in real-time – is relatively cheap and easy to implement on a permanent basis or in short field campaigns.
The suitability of remotely sensed soil moisture for improving operational flood forecasting
Authors: Wanders N. , Karssenberg D. , de Roo A. , de Jong S. M. , Bierkens M. F. P.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. We evaluate the added value of assimilated remotely sensed soil moisture for the European Flood Awareness System (EFAS) and its potential to improve the prediction of the timing and height of the flood peak and low flows. EFAS is an operational flood forecasting system for Europe and uses a distributed hydrological model for flood predictions with lead times up to 10 days. For this study, satellite-derived soil moisture from ASCAT, AMSR-E and SMOS is assimilated into the EFAS system for the Upper Danube basin and results are compared to assimilation of discharge observations only. To assimilate soil moisture and discharge data into EFAS, an Ensemble Kalman Filter (EnKF) is used. Information on the spatial (cross-) correlation of the errors in the satellite products, is included to ensure optimal performance of the EnKF. For the validation, additional discharge observations not used in the EnKF, are used as an independent validation dataset. Our results show that the accuracy of flood forecasts is increased when more discharge observations are assimilated; the Mean Absolute Error (MAE) of the ensemble mean is reduced by 65%. The additional inclusion of satellite data results in a further increase of the performance: forecasts of base flows are better and the uncertainty in the overall discharge is reduced, shown by a 10% reduction in the MAE. In addition, floods are predicted with a higher accuracy and the Continuous Ranked Probability Score (CRPS) shows a performance increase of 5–10% on average, compared to assimilation of discharge only. When soil moisture data is used, the timing errors in the flood predictions are decreased especially for shorter lead times and imminent floods can be forecasted with more skill. The number of false flood alerts is reduced when more data is assimilated into the system and the best performance is achieved with the assimilation of both discharge and satellite observations. The additional gain is highest when discharge observations from both upstream and downstream areas are used in combination with the soil moisture data. These results show the potential of remotely sensed soil moisture observations to improve near-real time flood forecasting in large catchments.
Intensively exploited Mediterranean aquifers: resilience and proximity to critical points of seawater intrusion
Authors: Mazi K. , Koussis A. D. , Destouni G.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. We investigate here seawater intrusion in three prominent Mediterranean aquifers that are subject to intensive exploitation and modified hydrologic regimes by human activities: the Nile Delta Aquifer, the Israel Coastal Aquifer and the Cyprus Akrotiri Aquifer. Using a generalized analytical sharp-interface model, we review the salinization history and current status of these aquifers, and quantify their resilience/vulnerability to current and future sea intrusion forcings. We identify two different critical limits of sea intrusion under groundwater exploitation and/or climatic stress: a limit of well intrusion, at which intruded seawater reaches key locations of groundwater pumping, and a tipping point of complete sea intrusion upto the prevailing groundwater divide of a coastal aquifer. Either limit can be reached, and ultimately crossed, under intensive aquifer exploitation and/or climate-driven change. We show that sea intrusion vulnerability for different aquifer cases can be directly compared in terms of normalized intrusion performance curves. The site-specific assessments show that the advance of seawater currently seriously threatens the Nile Delta Aquifer and the Israel Coastal Aquifer. The Cyprus Akrotiri Aquifer is currently somewhat less threatened by increased seawater intrusion.
A method of 3D-GIS application aided with stereo panorama technology
Authors: Sun M. , Dong N. , Zheng H. , Jiang C. , Ren X.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. So far, three-dimensional geographic information system (3DGIS) has been developed and applied to many fields. However, data capturing is a challenge for complex environment modeling and visualization. Panorama is an elegant method for users to get a real view without being plagued by 3D measurement and modeling. Although someone claimed that panoramas can offer the function of measurement, the results are widely considered not reliable. 3D images composited by laser scanner data are another kind of precise data source to replace traditional 3D modeling. Laser scanners have obvious shortcomings, such as vast data and time-consuming processes. We propose a method of using stereo panorama technology to complement the three-dimensional data acquisition, processing and management. By using two cameras combined with MTI sensors, which provide pose and position measurement. We can obtain the stereo panorama at one time, which enables users to measure positions and orientations of particular features. The panorama can be uploaded to the 3D-GIS in a custom transmission format to provide stereo browsing of data capture sites. Combined with photogrammetry technology, users can also get accurate results by measuring interesting features on the panorama through interactive measurement interface. Based on Google Earth platform, we verified the effectiveness of our developed system. It stands out from traditional methods with its irreplaceable superiority in local 3D data acquisition and updating, as well as its direct data measurement.
The impact of Border policy effect on cross-border ethnic areas
Authors: Bie Q. L. , Zhou S. Y. , Li C. S.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. Boundary effect analysis is related to border policy making in the cross-border ethnic area. The border effect literatures show that geographic boundaries have obvious impacts on economic, social and cultural relations in both sides of a nation border. Particularly in cross-border ethnic areas, each ethnic group has strong internal spatial structure relevance, and the boundary effect is more obvious. However, most of China's border areas are cross-border ethnic areas, each of border issues is unique. Under this perspective, we analyze the border effects of various boundaries can provide basis for formulating border management policies. For small scale of cross-border ethnic minority areas, how to formulate the boundary management policy is a good question to explore. This paper is demonstrated by a study of the impact of border management policies in Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture in Yunnan Province at the border area to Burma. The comparative method is used to analysis the border management policies in past 50 decades for the border area of Yunnan Province .This research aims to define trends within border policy and its influences to national security. This paper also examines Wendy Brown's liberal theory of border management policy. We found that it is not suitable for Sino-Burma border area. The conclusion is that the changes or instability of international economic and political situation has more influence to this cross-border ethnic area, and only innovative policy will be effective in cross-border ethnic area. So the border management policies should reflect the change of international context.
Landslide and debris flow susceptibility zonation using TRIGRS for the 2011 Seoul landslide event
Authors: Park D. W. , Nikhil N. V. , Lee S. R.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. This paper presents the results from the application of a regional, physically based stability model: Transient Rainfall Infiltration and Grid-based Regional Slope-stability analysis (TRIGRS) for a region on Woomyeon Mountain, Seoul, South Korea. This model couples an infinite-slope stability analysis with a one-dimensional analytical solution to predict the transient pore pressure response to the infiltration of rainfall. TRIGRS also adopts the geographic information system (GIS) framework for determining the whole behaviour of a slope. In this paper, we suggest an index for evaluating the results produced by the model. Particular attention is devoted to the prediction of routes of debris flow, using a runoff module. In this context, the paper compares observed landslide and debris flow events with those predicted by the TRIGRS model. The TRIGRS model, originally developed to predict shallow landslides, has been extended in this study for application to debris flows. The results predicted by the TRIGRS model are presented as safety factor (FS) maps corresponding to transient rainfall events, and in terms of debris flow paths using methods proposed by several researchers in hydrology. In order to quantify the effectiveness of the model, we proposed an index called LRclass (landslide ratio for each predicted FS class). The LRclass index is mainly applied in regions where the landslide scar area is not well defined (or is unknown), in order to avoid overestimation of the model results. The use of the TRIGRS routing module was proposed to predict the paths of debris flow, especially in areas where the rheological properties and erosion rates of the materials are difficult to obtain. Although an improvement in accuracy is needed, this module is very useful for preliminary spatio-temporal assessment over wide areas. In summary, the TRIGRS model is a powerful tool of use to decision makers for susceptibility mapping, particularly when linked with various advanced applications using GIS spatial functions.
Characterization of L-band synthetic aperture radar (SAR) backscatter from floating and grounded thermokarst lake ice in Arctic Alaska
Authors: Engram M. , Anthony K. W. , Meyer F. J. , Grosse G.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. Radar remote sensing is a well-established method to discriminate lakes retaining liquid-phase water beneath winter ice cover from those that do not. L-band (23.6 cm wavelength) airborne radar showed great promise in the 1970s, but spaceborne synthetic aperture radar (SAR) studies have focused on C-band (5.6 cm) SAR to classify lake ice with no further attention to L-band SAR for this purpose. Here, we examined calibrated L-band single- and quadrature-polarized SAR returns from floating and grounded lake ice in two regions of Alaska: the northern Seward Peninsula (NSP) where methane ebullition is common in lakes and the Arctic Coastal Plain (ACP) where ebullition is relatively rare. We found average backscatter intensities of −13 dB and −16 dB for late winter floating ice on the NSP and ACP, respectively, and −19 dB for grounded ice in both regions. Polarimetric analysis revealed that the mechanism of L-band SAR backscatter from floating ice is primarily roughness at the ice–water interface. L-band SAR showed less contrast between floating and grounded lake ice than C-band; however, since L-band is sensitive to ebullition bubbles trapped by lake ice (bubbles increase backscatter), this study helps elucidate potential confounding factors of grounded ice in methane studies using SAR.
Comparison of control methods for coccidiosis in native Spanish "Castellana Negra" chickens
Authors: Miguel J.A. , Asenjo B. , Ciria J. , Del Cacho E. , Calvo J.L.
Published: November 2013

Coccidiosis is a disease responsible for serious economic losses in the poultry industry. This paper compares the effect of coccidiosis infection in a population of experimentally infected Castellana Negra chickens previously administered the ionophorous antibiotic monensin (Treatment 1), Alquernat Zyox, a herb-based product (Treatment 2), or a live vaccine based on oocystes selected for precocity (Treatment 3). Fifty birds per treatment were housed in captivity and weighed individually once every two weeks. At nine weeks they were infected with pathogenic oocysts of Eimeria tenella, E. acervulina and E. maxima. No significant differences (P
Statistical models to describe the fruit growth pattern in sweet orange "Valencia late"
Authors: Avanza M.M. , Bramardi S.J. , Mazza S.M.
Published: November 2013

The objective of the present work was to find the statistical model that best describes the pattern of fruit growth of sweet orange "Valencia late" in the departments of Concepción (orchard 1) and General Paz (orchard 2), province of Corrientes, Argentina. In order to fit the growth curves, models of sigmoid type: Logistic, Gompertz, Weibull, Morgan Mercer Flodin, Richards, and reparameterizations of the Logistic and Gompertz models, were evaluated and compared. As criteria for selecting the model, measures of nonlinearity and estimates of residual variance for the different models and reparameterizations were compared. The model found to be most suitable to describe "Valencia late" orange fruit growth was the fifth parameterization of Logistic model: y = 1/alpha + exp(beta)gamma Ex. In this model, beta and gamma had similar values on all fruit sizes in orchard 1, but different values for fruit sizes in orchard 2; alpha values varied for both orchards between fruit sizes. For this reason, a family of curves will be necessary for different situations.
Genetic variation for glutenin and gliadins associated with quality in durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. ssp. turgidum) landraces from Spain
Authors: Aguiriano E. , Ruiz M. , Fité R. , Carrillo J.M.
Published: November 2013

The allelic variation at seven prolamin loci involved in quality has been studied in a set of durum wheat landraces from all the Spanish regions where this crop has been traditionally cultivated. The genetic variability was higher than that found in other germplasm collections. All the loci, except Glu-B2, displayed a genetic variability higher than 0.62, with Glu-3 the most polymorphic. In total, five alleles were studied at Glu-A1, nine at Glu-B1, 15 at Glu-A3, 18 at Glu-B3, two at Glu- B2, and eight at Gli-A1 and Gli-B1. New allelic variants not previously identified in durum wheat were detected. The 30 different genotypes of B low-molecular-weight (B-LMW) glutenin subunits analysed, of which 25 are novel, provide an important source of genetic variability for quality breeding. Protein patterns for convars. durum and turgidum, and for the North and South of Spain were identified for the loci with significant influence on quality. Higher variability was observed in convar. turgidum and in the North zone than in convar. durum and the South, respectively, mainly for the Glu-B1 and Glu-B3. Also, convar. turgidum appeared to be a valuable source for new alleles for the LMW glutenin subunits. Wheats from the South were, however, more diverse for prolamins encoded at Glu-A3.
Effects of N fertilizer on root growth in Zea mays L. seedlings
Authors: Zheng-rui Wang , Yu-kui Rui , Jian-bo Shen , Fu-suo Zhang
Published: November 2013

This paper reports the effects of different nitrogen (N) fertilizer levels on the growth of maize (Zea mays L.) under field conditions. The N supply was found to influence the growth of the plants, especially the roots. A high N supply significantly inhibited root elongation, and was associated with reduced root dry weight compared to controls and to plants grown with smaller supplies of N. However, no differences were seen in lateral primary root density under the different N supply conditions, nor did plant N concentration increase with high N supply. In conclusion, a high N supply not only wastes resources and pollutes the environment, it may also inhibit root growth.
Agronomic, leaf anatomy, morphology, endophyte presence and ploidy characterization of accessions of Festuca group rubra collected in northern Spain
Authors: Oliveira J. A. , Gutiérrez-Villarias M. I. , Fernández-Casado M. A. , Costal-Andrade L. , González-Arráez E. , Bughrara S. S. , Afif E.
Published: November 2013

Fifteen accessions of Festuca group rubra collected in northern Spain were characterized and grouped into four Festuca taxa on the basis of leaf anatomy, morphology and ploidy; seven were identified as F. heteromalla; two as F. trichophylla ssp. asperifolia; two as F. nigrescens ssp. microphylla and four as F. rubra ssp. pruinosa. All the accessions and one commercial cultivar ‘Wilma’ (F. nigrescens ssp. nigrescens), used as control, were established at the Mabegondo Agronomical Research Centre, A Coruña (Galicia) in a completely randomised block design with three replicates of 10 plants per accession. The plants were agronomically characterized for seven traits during 2004 and 2005. Cluster analysis was useful in identifying four clusters that described 66.5% of the phenotypic variation. Cluster 1 consisted of nine accessions with early heading, intermediate values of green colour and tolerance to crown rust in autumn and the highest seasonal growth. Cluster 2 contained two accessions with intermediate values of heading, green colour, good tolerance to crown rust in autumn and intermediate seasonal growth. Cluster 3 contained two accessions and the cultivar Wilma, which showed early heading, dark green colour, good tolerance to crown rust in autumn and spring and intermediate seasonal growth. Cluster 4 consisted of two late heading accessions with dark green colour, and the best tolerance to crown rust in autumn and intermediate seasonal growth. Thirteen of the 15 accessions (86.6%) were infected by fungal endophytes, with the degree of infection ranging from 2 to 73%.
Evaluation of some fungicides on mycorrhizal symbiosis between two Glomus species from commercial inocula and Allium porrum L. seedlings
Authors: Hernández-Dorrego A. , Mestre-Parés J.
Published: November 2013

This paper reports the effect of twenty-five commonly used fungicides in agriculture on two arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) present in commercial products of ATENS, S.L.: Glomus intraradices (Schenck & Smith) and Glomus mosseae [(Nicol. & Gerd.) Gerdemann & Trappe], forming the symbiosis with leek plants. Systemic fungicides (Aliette, Beltanol, Caddy 10, Forum, Moncut, Ortiva, Previcur, Ridomil Gold MZ, Ridomil Gold SL, Rubigan, Sinthane, Stroby, Swich, Tachigarem, Teldor, Topas 10 EC, Frupica) and non systemic fungicides (Daconil 75%, Ditiver, Euparem, INACOP, Octagón, Parmex, Terrazole and Metaram), started to be applied to soil and leaves at recommended concentrations and frequencies 4 weeks after transplant and AMF inoculation. The effect of the fungicides was assessed by comparing treated and untreated plants that were inoculated with the AMF through quantification of root mycorrhizal colonization. Among the fungicides applied to the soil, Octagon, Ditiver, Parmex and Metaram virtually eliminated the mycorrhizal symbiosis in treated plants, while the mycorrhizal colonization was not affected by the soil treatment with Beltanol, INACOP and Previcur. Three fungicides of foliar recommended application: Rubigan, Frupica, and Sinthane, strongly inhibited mycorrhizal colonization, but Aliette, Forum, Teldor, Swich and Ortiva, did not seem to reduce it substantially. In addition, the work describes the individual effect of each fungicide applied on both, foliage and soil.
Coupling autotrophic in vitro plant cultivation system to scanning electron microscope to study plant-fungal interactions
Authors: De Jaeger N. , Decock C. , Declerck S. , De la Providencia I. E.
Published: November 2013

The interactions of plants with pathogens and beneficial micro-organisms have been seldom compared on the same host and under strict controlled autotrophic in vitro culture conditions. Here, the life cycle of two plant beneficial (Glomus sp. MUCL 41833 and Trichoderma harzianum) and one plant pathogen (Rhizoctonia solani) fungi were described on potato (Solanum tuberosum) plantlets under autotrophic in vitro culture conditions using video camera imaging and the scanning electron microscope (SEM). (i) The colony developmental pattern of the extraradical mycelium within the substrate, (ii) the reproduction structures and (iii) the three-dimensional spatial arrangements of the fungal hyphae within the potato root cells were successfully visualized, monitored and described. The combination of the autotrophic in vitro culture system and SEM represent a powerful tool for improving our knowledge on the dynamics of plant-fungal interactions.
Dry matter and root colonization of plants by indigenous arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi with physical fractions of dry olive mill residue inoculated with saprophytic fungi
Authors: Aranda E. , Sampedro I. , Díaz R. , García-Sánchez M. , Siles J. A. , Ocampo J. A. , García-Romera I.
Published: November 2013

We studied the influence of indigenous arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) and saprobe fungi on the phytotoxicity of the physical fractions of dry olive mill residue (DOR). The physical extractions of DOR gave an aqueous (ADOR) and an exhausted (SDOR) fraction with less phytotoxicity for tomato than the original samples. The indigenous AM were able to decrease the phytotoxicity of SDOR inoculated with Trametes versicolor and Pycnoporus cinnabarinus on tomato. However, incubation of ADOR with both saprophytic fungi did not decrease its phytotoxicity in presence of the indigenous AM fungi. The percentage of root length colonized by indigenous AM strongly decreased in presence of DOR, around 80% of decrease at dose of 25 g kg-1of DOR, but the level of mycorrhization was higher in presence of ADOR or SDOR (38% and 44% of decrease respectively at the same dose). There were no relationships between the effects of the physical fractions of DOR incubated with the saprobe fungi on AM colonization and on plant dry weight of tomato. Our results suggest that the phytotoxicity of the olive residues can be eliminated by the combination of physical extraction and by saprobe fungal inoculation and the use of this agrowaste as organic amendment in agricultural soil may be possible.
Assessment of mycorrhizal colonisation and soil nutrients in unmanaged fire-impacted soils from two target restoration sites
Authors: Dias J. M. , Oliveira R. S. , Franco A. R. , Ritz K. , Nunan N. , Castro P. M. L.
Published: November 2013

The mycorrhizal colonisation of plants grown in unmanaged soils from two restoration sites with a fire history in Northern Portugal was evaluated from the perspective of supporting restoration programmes. To promote restoration of original tree stands, Quercus ilex L. and Pinus pinaster Ait. were used as target species on two sites, denoted Site 1 and 2 respectively. The aim of the study was to assess whether mycorrhizal propagules that survived fire episodes could serve as in situ inoculum sources, and to analyse the spatial distribution of soil nutrients and mycorrhizal parameters. In a laboratory bioassay, P. pinaster and Q. ilex seedlings were grown on soils from the target sites and root colonisation by ectomycorrhizal (ECM) and arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi was determined. The ECM root colonisation levels found indicated that soil from Site 2 contained sufficient ECM propagules to serve as a primary source of inoculum for P. pinaster. The low levels of ECM and AM colonisation obtained on the roots of plants grown in soil from Site 1 indicated that the existing mycorrhizal propagules might be insufficient for effective root colonisation of Q. ilex. Different ECM morphotypes were found in plants grown in soil from the two sites. At Site 2 mycorrhizal parameters were found to be spatially structured, with signif icant differences in ECM colonisation and soil P concentrations between regions of either side of an existing watercourse. The spatial distribution of mycorrhizal propagules was related to edaphic parameters (total C and extractable P), and correlations between soil nutrients and mycorrhizal parameters were found.
Influence of silver and titanium nanoparticles on arbuscular mycorrhiza colonization and accumulation of radiocaesium in Helianthus annuus
Authors: Dubchak S. , Ogar A. , Mietelski J. W. , Turnau K.
Published: November 2013

The influence of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus on 134Cs uptake by Helianthus annuus was studied in a pilot study under growth chamber conditions. Mycorrhizal plants took up five times more 134Cs (up to 250,000 Bq kg-1 dry weight) than non mycorrhizal plants. Silver and titanium nanoparticles, supplied into the surface soil layer decreased both the mycorrhizal colonization and Cs uptake by mycorrhizal plants. The application of activated carbon attenuated the effect of nanoparticles and increased 134Cs uptake in the presence of mycorrhizal fungi (up to 400,000 Bq kg-1 dry weight). The results underline the possible application of phytoremediation techniques based on mycorrhiza assisted plants in decontamination of both radionuclides and nanoparticles.
Effect of chromium contaminated soil on arbuscular mycorrhizal colonisation of roots and metal uptake by Plantago lanceolata
Authors: Estaún V. , Cortés A. , Velianos K. , Camprubí A. , Calvet C.
Published: November 2013

Industrial practices are the primary causes for the accumulation of chromium in the environment, an element considered as a toxic heavy metal when present in high concentrations. The beneficial contribution of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) to plant nutrition and growth has been acknowledged, however, results of heavy metal uptake by plants under mycorrhizal symbiosis vary. The AMF Glomus intraradices (BEG 72) was used with Plantago lanceolata as a host plant in three experiments. In the first one, devised to assess the plant tolerance to Cr(III) in the soil, four levels of chromium concentration were applied in a sterile soil mix, placed in pots with inoculated and non inoculated plant treatments. Plant survival, shoot weight and AMF root colonisation were measured. In the second experiment which was designed in order to determine the effect of the symbiosis on the chromium uptake, similar treatments were used, and in addition, the heavy metal plant tissue content was measured and the bioconcentration factors calculated. In the third experiment the chromium uptake from an industrial chromium waste contaminated soil was assessed using treatments with and without the AMF. Results showed that chromium has a severe impact on the survival of non inoculated plants, however, plants inoculated with AMF in moderately contaminated soil, perform in terms of growth and survival rate, as well as the non inoculated plants in soil with no chromium added, suggesting a buffering effect of the AMF by decreased intake of the toxic element in the roots and its translocation to the shoot.
Development of soil quality metrics using mycorrhizal fungi
Authors: Baar J.
Published: November 2013

Based on the Treaty on Biological Diversity of Rio de Janeiro in 1992 for maintaining and increasing biodiversity, several countries have started programmes monitoring soil quality and the above- and below ground biodiversity. Within the European Union, policy makers are working on legislation for soil protection and management. Therefore, indicators are needed to monitor the status of the soils and these indicators reflecting the soil quality, can be integrated in working standards or soil quality metrics. Soil micro-organisms, particularly arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), are indicative of soil changes. These soil fungi live in symbiosis with the great majority of plants and are sensitive to changes in the physico-chemical conditions of the soil. The aim of this study was to investigate whether AMF are reliable and sensitive indicators for disturbances in the soils and can be used for the development of soil quality metrics. Also, it was studied whether soil quality metrics based on AMF meet requirements to applicability by users and policy makers. Ecological criterions were set for the development of soil quality metrics for different soils. Multiple root samples containing AMF from various locations in The Netherlands were analyzed. The results of the analyses were related to the defined criterions. This resulted in two soil quality metrics, one for sandy soils and a second one for clay soils, with six different categories ranging from very bad to very good. These soil quality metrics meet the majority of requirements for applicability and are potentially useful for the development of legislations for the protection of soil quality.
Poétique de la rature – La fabrique épistolaire chez les dames Harnois
Authors: Bédard Mylène
Published: November 2013

La correspondance de Marguerite et Reine Harnois adressée du Bas-Canada à Ludger Duvernay alors qu’il est en exil aux États-Unis entre 1838 et 1839 constitue un corpus favorable à l’analyse des conditions de production d’une lettre au coeur duxixesiècle. Ces lettres révèlent les moments où l’écriture tâtonne, à la recherche d’un style plus personnel ou plus à même de remplir les visées de l’épistolière. La présente étude entend repérer et analyser les traces de ces allers et retours de la plume par lesquels l’écriture d’une lettre se peaufine, se complexifie, s’éprouve par le déploiement de stratégies discursives. Si les ratures témoignent de l’étape de relecture qui parachève l’écriture épistolaire dans sa gestation, peut-on penser que ce travail sur le style participe d’une négociation des conditions d’acceptabilité du discours? Dans quelle mesure ces retours sur l’écriture influent-ils sur la manière dont les épistolières se représentent et établissent leur rapport à l’autre? Qu’elle vise à dissimuler ou à rendre visible ce qu’elle prétend cacher, la rature nous amène à réfléchir à l’histoire des pratiques épistolaires.
Colloque « Bibliothèques numériques : au carrefour des disciplines et des institutions » : constats et enjeux
Authors: Da Sylva Lyne , Laplante Audrey
Published: November 2013

Cet article fait état des communications présentées lors du colloque « Bibliothèques numériques : au carrefour des disciplines et des institutions », tenu dans le cadre du congrès de l’ACFAS, du 8 au 10 mai 2012. Il consigne les observations faites par les organisatrices du colloque sur les préoccupations et les enjeux dégagés par les conférenciers et conférencières lors de leurs présentations.
Community‐based interventions that work to reduce HIV stigma and discrimination: results of an evaluation study in Thailand
Authors: Jain Aparna , Nuankaew Ratana , Mongkholwiboolphol Nungruthai , Banpabuth Arunee , Tuvinun Rachada , Oranop na Ayuthaya Pakprim , Richter Kerry
Published: November 2013

Introduction

HIV stigma and discrimination are major issues affecting people living with HIV in their everyday lives. In Thailand, a project was implemented to address HIV stigma and discrimination within communities with four activities: (1) monthly banking days; (2) HIV campaigns; (3) information, education and communication (IEC) materials and (4) “Funfairs.” This study evaluates the effect of project interventions on reducing community‐level HIV stigma.

Methods

A repeated cross‐sectional design was developed to measure changes in HIV knowledge and HIV‐related stigma domains among community members exposed to the project. Two cross‐sectional surveys were implemented at baseline (respondent n=560) and endline (respondent n=560). T‐tests were employed to assess changes on three stigma domains: fear of HIV infection through daily activity, shame associated with having HIV and blame towards people with HIV. Baseline scales were confirmed at endline, and each scale was regressed on demographic characteristics, HIV knowledge and exposure to intervention activities.

Results

No differences were observed in respondent characteristics at baseline and endline. Significant changes were observed in HIV transmission knowledge, fear of HIV infection and shame associated with having HIV from baseline to endline. Respondents exposed to three specific activities (monthly campaign, Funfair and IEC materials) were less likely to exhibit stigma along the dimensions of fear (3.8 points lower on average compared to respondents exposed to none or only one intervention; 95% CI: −7.3 to −0.3) and shame (4.1 points lower; 95% CI: −7.7 to −0.6), net of demographic controls and baseline levels of stigma. Personally knowing someone with HIV was associated with low fear and shame, and females were less likely to possess attitudes of shame compared to males.

Conclusions

The multivariate linear models suggest that a combination of three interventions was critical in shifting community‐level stigma – monthly campaign, Funfair and IEC materials. This is especially important given Thailand's new national AIDS strategy to reduce HIV‐related stigma and discrimination by half by 2016. Knowing which interventions to invest in for HIV stigma reduction is crucial for country‐wide expansion and scale‐up of intervention activities.
A Systematic Review of Outcomes Following Repair of Complex Ventral Incisional Hernias With Biologic Mesh
Authors: Ferzoco Stephen J.
Published: November 2013

Repair of contaminated/infected ventral incisional hernias is marked by high rates of recurrence, complications, and/or explantation of synthetic mesh. Biologic mesh products are recommended for repair to permit reconstruction and reduce complications. A systematic review of PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases identified English-language articles reporting postoperative outcomes (e.g., hernia recurrence, infection, mesh explantation) in patients undergoing contaminated/infected ventral incisional herniorrhaphy. Eleven studies met inclusion criteria and contained quantitative outcome data. All were retrospective chart reviews of biologic mesh use (mostly human acellular dermal matrix). Hernia recurrence and wound infection rates were highly variable and inconsistently reported across studies. Mesh explantation was rarely reported. Outcome variability is likely owing to heterogenous patient populations, surgical technique variations, and follow-up duration. Biologic mesh use in contaminated/infected herniorrhaphy was marked by low reported rates of secondary surgeries for infected mesh removal. Data from large, well-controlled, prospective trials with biologic mesh products are needed.
Is Ostomy Still Mandatory in Rectal Injuries?
Authors: Ulger Burak Veli , Turkoglu Ahmet , Oguz Abdullah , Uslukaya Omer , Aliosmanoglu Ibrahim , Gul Mesut
Published: November 2013

The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of the treatment methods of ostomy and primary repair in rectal injuries. A total of 63 patients with rectal injury who had been treated at Dicle University Hospital between 2000 and 2011 were retrospectively reviewed. To determine the outcomes of the treatment methods, the patients were divided into 2 groups (ostomy group: patients who underwent ostomy plus primary repair; repair group: patients who only underwent primary repair) and compared. The patients included 51 men and 12 women. A total of 44 patients underwent ostomy, whereas 19 patients underwent primary repair. No morbidity was detected in either group with grade II intraperitoneal rectal injury. The outcomes of the patients with grade II intraperitoneal and extraperitoneal rectal injury were similar. In the treatment of patients with low-grade rectal injuries, primary repair can be preferred to ostomy.