bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Empiric narrowing of the net energy value of reduced-oil corn distillers’ dried grain with solubles for growing-finishing pigs
Authors: Smit M. N. , Zamora V. , Young M. G. , Campbell N. G. , Uttaro B. , Beltranena E.
Published: March 2015

Smit, M. N., Zamora, V., Young, M. G., Campbell, N., Uttaro, B. and Beltranena, E. 2015. Empiric narrowing of the net energy value of reduced-oil corn distillers’ dried grain with solubles for growing-finishing pigs. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 95: 225–241. This study attempted to empirically narrow down the net energy (NE) value of reduced-oil corn distillers’ dried grains and solubles (RO-cDDGS) by evaluating the response in pig growth performance, live backfat and loin depth, carcass traits, and primal pork cuts tissue composition to feeding diets formulated increasing the assumed NE value of RO-cDDGS, expecting a brisk change in slope of the response at the point at which the NE value of RO-cDDGS would be identified. In total, 1056 cross-bred pigs (31.7 kg) housed in 48 pens by gender were fed dietary regimens including 30% RO-cDDGS (6.7% ether extract) with assumed NE values of 1.7, 1.85, 2.0, 2.15, 2.3, or 2.45 Mcal kg−1over five growth periods (Grower 1: days 0–21, Grower 2: days 22–42, Grower 3: days 43–63, Finisher 1: days 64–76, Finisher 2: day 77 to market weight). Pig body weights were measured and feed disappearance (ADFI) was calculated by pen on days 0, 21, 42, 63, 76 and weekly thereafter until target slaughter weight (120 kg). For the entire trial (days 0–76), increasing the assumed NE value of RO-cDDGS linearly increased (P<0.01) ADFI and total lysine intake, did not affect NE intake and daily weight gain (ADG), quadratically decreased (P<0.05) feed efficiency, linearly decreased (P<0.05) live backfat depth and backfat:loin depth ratio, and did not affect carcass characteristics or pork primal cut tissue composition. Segmented regression only identified a change in slope for carcass ADG and lean ADG at 1.85 Mcal kg−1. These results indicate that the experimental approach taken was not reliable in narrowing down the NE value of RO-cDDGS because the decrease in dietary NE was too small (0.03 Mcal kg−1d), which limited the change in dietary Lys:NE ratio with increasing assumed NE value of RO-cDDGS. The approach resulted in progressive, but small changes in slope rather than a clearly identifiable point where one could conclude that the incremental dietary energy contribution from RO-cDDGS changed the response in a given variable.
Effects of dietary total non-structural carbohydrates and folic acid and vitamin B12 supplement on growth and meat quality of yearling steers in a forage-based beef production system
Authors: Mercier J. , Cinq-Mars D. , Berthiaume R. , Faucitano L. , Girard C. L.
Published: March 2015

Mercier, J., Cinq-Mars, D., Berthiaume, R., Faucitano, L. and Girard, C. L. 2015. Effects of dietary total non-structural carbohydrates and folic acid and vitamin B12 supplement on growth and meat quality of yearling steers in a forage-based beef production system. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 95: 281–291. Thirty-two spring calving cows [760±91 kg body weight (BW)] and calves (44±4.5 kg BW) were assigned to eight blocks of four cows and their calves each according to parity and calving date. Within each block, two cows were fed a low total non-structural carbohydrate (TNC) diet, while the two others were fed a high TNC diet. Within each diet, cows were administered either no vitamins or weekly intramuscular injections of 160 mg of folic acid plus 10 mg of vitamin B12. Calves were slaughtered at 305±9 d. Neither TNC concentration nor vitamin supplementation affected (P>0.10) milk yield but the vitamin supplementation increased (P=0.002) milk concentrations of vitamin B12. There was no treatment effect on calf performance, or carcass and meat characteristics (P>0.10) except for collagen concentrations and shear force measurements in the longissimus lumborum muscle, which had a tendency to be decreased (P≤0.06) by the vitamin supplement. In the present study, differences in forage TNC concentrations did not influence cow and calf performance. Moreover, folic acid and vitamin B12 supplements were shown to have little impact in this study on growth of beef cattle.
Response of lactating dairy cows to dietary protein from canola meal or distillers’ grains on dry matter intake, milk production, milk composition, and amino acid status
Authors: Acharya I. P. , Schingoethe D. J. , Kalscheur K. F. , Casper D. P.
Published: March 2015

Acharya I. P., Schingoethe D. J., Kalscheur K. F. and Casper D. P. 2015. Response of lactating dairy cows to dietary protein from canola meal or distillers’ grains on dry matter intake, milk production, milk composition, and amino acid status. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 95: 267–279. A study was conducted to determine the response of feeding two different crude protein (CP) concentrations [low protein (LP, 14.3% CP) and high protein (HP, 16.3% CP)] and sources of protein [canola meal (CM) and high-protein dried distillers’ grains (HPDDG)] on dry matter intake, milk production and composition, and amino acid (AA) status of high producing dairy cows. Sixteen Holstein cows were used in a replicated 4×4 Latin square having a 2×2 factorial arrangement of treatments. All diets contained 55% forage (50% alfalfa hay and 50% corn silage) and 45% concentrate. Diets were formulated to contain LP with CM, LP with HPDDG, HP with CM and HP with HPDDG. Experimental feeding periods were 4 wk with data collected during weeks 3 and 4 of each period. Dry matter intake (24.6 vs. 25.9 kg d−1 for LP and HP, respectively) was increased for cows fed the higher CP diets, milk yield was greater for cows fed HP diets (34.0 vs. 36.4 kg d−1), and milk fat percentage was greater for cows fed HP compared with LP, but were similar between dietary protein sources. Feed efficiency calculated as fat-corrected milk and energy-corrected milk was greater for cows fed HP than LP, but was similar between sources. Dietary metabolizable protein of CM diets was utilized more efficiently than from HPDDG diets for milk protein production. Mammary gland extraction efficiency of essential AA indicated that Met was the first limiting AA for CM-based diets while Lys was first limiting for HPDDG-based diets. In summary, canola meal and distillers’ grains are both good quality protein supplements for lactating cows.
Estimating plasma volume in neonatal Holstein calves fed one or two feedings of a lacteal-based colostrum replacer using Evans blue dye and hematocrit values at various time points
Authors: Cabral Rosemarie G. , Chapman Colleen E. , Kent Emily J. , Erickson Peter S.
Published: March 2015

Cabral, R. G., Chapman, C. E., Kent, E. J. and Erickson, P. S. 2015. Estimating plasma volume in neonatal Holstein calves fed one or two feedings of a lacteal-based colostrum replacer using Evans blue dye and hematocrit values at various time points. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 95: 293–298. Twenty-eight Holstein calves were blocked by birth date and randomly assigned to one of two treatments to investigate the effect of colostrum replacer (CR) feeding regimen on plasma volume (PV). Treatments were: (1) one feeding of CR (C1; 3 L of reconstituted CR 675 g of powder providing 184.5 g of IgG at birth) or (2) two feedings of CR (C2; 2 L of reconstituted CR at birth and 1 L of reconstituted CR at 6 h). By 6 h of age, all calves had received 3 L of CR providing 184.5 g of IgG. Plasma volume was estimated at 6, 12, 18, and 24 h after birth using Evans blue dye. No treatment effects were noted at any time points (P>0.05). Mean PV for all calves regardless of treatment at 6, 12, 18, and 24 h were 78.6, 89.2, 83.9, and 90.7 mL kg−1of body weight, respectively. Plasma volume was correlated with hematocrit (HCT), initial HCT, and treatment. Hematocrit was correlated with PV, initial HCT, and body weight. Hematocrit for 6, 12, 18 and 24 h after birth can be predicted with an initial precolostral HCT determination.
The effects of different water and nitrogen levels on yield, water and nitrogen utilization efficiencies of spinach (Spinacia oleraceaL.)
Authors: Zhang Jinxiu , Sha Zhimin , Zhang Yi , Bei Zhigang , Cao Linkui
Published: March 2015

Zhang, J., Sha, Z., Zhang, Y., Bei, Z. and Cao, L. 2015. The effects of different water and nitrogen levels on yield, water and nitrogen utilization efficiencies of spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.). Can. J. Plant Sci. 95: 671−679. Water and nitrogen (N) are important factors that affect crop yield. The objective of this study was to explore the interactive effect of water and nitrogen on biomass production, yield and growth responses, water and nitrogen use efficiency of winter-grown spinach. A field experiment was grown with treatments of varying water (W) and nitrogen (N) levels near Shanghai, China. Leaf area, shoot biomass and height of spinach increased with the application of N in the well-watered treatment. The highest chlorophyll content was found in spinach treated with N2(170 kg ha−1nitrogen). A response surface analysis was done on plant height, leaf number, leaf weight, and plant yield of each spinach plant at different water and nitrogen levels. The equation for each of the response surfaces was taken and solved for the mathematical optimum of the curves. Abundant water supply resulted in the highest spinach yield. Yield of spinach increased with N application rates but decreased when the N was excessive. Compared with the low water treatment (W3), a higher N leaching ratio was observed in the high water treatment (W1), regardless of N treatment. With the increase of N application, N use efficiency of spinach significantly decreased, while water use efficiency of spinach increased. In conclusion, water levels between 36.15 cm and 42 cm, and nitrogen applications between 86 and 152.74 kg ha−1could be recommended as the optimal treatment for spinach growth.
Phosphorus forms and response to changes in pH in acid-sensitive soils on the Precambrian Shield
Authors: Baker Scott R. , Watmough Shaun A. , Eimers M. Catherine
Published: March 2015

Baker, S. R., Watmough, S. A. and Eimers, M. C. 2015. Phosphorus forms and response to changes in pH in acid-sensitive soils on the Precambrian Shield. Can. J. Soil Sci. 95: 95–108. Soil acidification may explain declines in total phosphorus (TP) levels that have been observed in surface waters in central Ontario, Canada, but much of the research on phosphorus (P) mobility in pH manipulated soils has been performed at high P concentrations (i.e., >500 µM). This study investigated P fractionation in acidic (pH≤4.6) soils in south-central Ontario and relationships between soil pH and P sorption at relatively low P concentrations to test whether long-term declines in soil pH could have increased soil P sorption. Soils from three forested catchments that vary naturally in soil pH and outlet stream [TP] (0.1–0.4 µM in 2008) had very similar soil P concentrations and distributions (Hedley fractionation). Only hydrochloric-acid extractable P (i.e., apatite) differed amongst catchments and was greatest at the catchment with the highest stream [TP]. The fraction of P present as labile/soluble P did not decline with pH as expected and experiments indicated that P sorption at P concentrations between 4.52 and 452.1 µM was insensitive to manipulated solution pH. Soils were, however, able to sorb >90% of P added in sorption experiments at [P]≤452.1 µM. These results suggest that acidification-induced P sorption in upland soils has not contributed to observed decreases in surface water TP concentrations.
Influence of mowing and narrow grass buffer widths on reductions in sediment, nutrients, and bacteria in surface runoff
Authors: Miller J. J. , Curtis T. , Chanasyk D. S. , Reedyk S.
Published: March 2015

Miller, J. J., Curtis, T., Chanasyk, D. S. and Reedyk, S. 2015. Influence of mowing and narrow grass buffer widths on reductions in sediment, nutrients, and bacteria in surface runoff. Can. J. Soil Sci. 95: 139–151. Little research has been conducted on the effect of mowing and buffer width on the effectiveness of short-width (< 10 m) native grass buffers to filter sediment, nutrients, and bacteria. A 2-yr (2011–2012) field study was conducted on native rangeland in southern Alberta. The treatments of mowing and buffer width (1.5, 3, 6 m) were evaluated using a randomized complete block design with four replicates. The buffer plots were pre-wet with distilled water. A spiked solution was then applied to each plot using a run-on distribution device and the runoff collected every 10 min for 30 min once the runoff started discharging from the plot. The volume of runoff, and percent reduction in concentration and mass of sediment [total dissolved solids (TSS)], phosphorus [dissolved reactive P (DRP), total P], nitrogen (total N), and bacteria (Escherichia coli, total coliforms) in runoff were determined. The findings did not support our hypothesis that percent reductions in concentrations and mass for sediment, nutrients, and bacteria were greater for mowed than unmowed buffers. In contrast, the findings supported our hypothesis that increasing buffer width would significantly (P≤0.05) decrease mass (but not concentration) of sediment, nutrients, and bacteria in runoff. The significant mass reduction was attributed to a reduced runoff ratio caused by longer residence time and greater infiltration in the wider buffers. Mass reductions for the three buffer widths ranged from 29 to 92% for TSS, 22 to 93% for DRP, 38 to 93% for total P, 23 to 92% for total N, and between 61 and 94% for E. coli and total coliforms. These findings suggest that buffer width but not mowing may reduce runoff quantity and improve runoff quality over the short term.
Embedding Theorem for Inhomogeneous Besov and Triebel–Lizorkin Spaces on RD-spaces
Authors: Han Yanchang
Published: March 2015

In this article we prove an embedding theorem for inhomogeneous Besov and Triebel– Lizorkin spaces on RD-spaces. The crucial idea is to use the geometric density condition on the measure.
Las funciones inalterables del periodista ante los perfiles multimedia emergentes
Authors: Sánchez-García Pilar , Campos-Domínguez Eva , Berrocal Gonzalo Salomé
Published: March 2015

Esta investigación aborda el estudio de las funciones y de los perfiles del periodista en el nuevo entorno multimedia. Metodología. Se recurre a una metodología cualitativa de revisión documental, que contribuye a una actualización del campo de conocimiento, junto a una entrevista con cuestionario a colectivos de periodistas españoles sobre el objeto de estudio. Resultados. Refleja las coincidencias entre el ámbito académico y profesional en torno a las funciones inalterables del periodista frente a los nuevos perfiles multimedia emergentes y desarrolla el modelo de los perfiles formativos que establece la Aneca. Discusión. El nuevo entorno mediático evidencia la necesidad de revisión de conceptos desfasados y mantiene abierto el debate científico acerca de las tareas que se potencian en la labor periodística, así como la redefinición de perfiles profesionales y formativos que aún están en proceso de configuración en un  panorama mediático en transición.
Corrosion Inhibition of Two Brass Alloys by Octadecanethiol in Humidified Air with Formic Acid
Authors: Forslund Mattias , Pan Jinshan , Hosseinpour Saman , Zhang Fan , Johnson Magnus , Claesson Per , Leygraf Christofer
Published: March 2015

Self-assembled monolayers of octadecanethiol (ODT) have previously shown to provide excellent corrosion inhibition on copper exposed to humidified air containing formic acid, mimicking indoor atmospheric corrosion. ODT layers are, however, much less efficient corrosion inhibitors for zinc. In this work, we elucidate the possibility of using ODT monolayers to inhibit corrosion of brass. Based on a quantitative analysis of corrosion products, we found that ODT provides equally good corrosion inhibition of single-phase Cu20Zn as of pure copper, retarding the transportation of corrosion stimulators to the brass surface. On double-phase Cu40Zn, however, local galvanic effects led to less efficient corrosion inhibition and more corrosion products than on Cu20Zn.
Theory of the norm-induced metric in atmospheric dynamics
Authors: Koh T.-Y. , Wan F.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. We suggest that some metrics for quantifying distances in phase space are based on linearized flows about unrealistic reference states and hence may not be applicable to atmospheric flows. A new approach of defining a norm-induced metric based on the total energy norm is proposed. The approach is based on the rigorous mathematics of normed vector spaces and the law of energy conservation in physics. It involves the innovative construction of the phase space so that energy (or a certain physical invariant) takes the form of a Euclidean norm. The metric can be applied to both linear and nonlinear flows and for small and large separations in phase space. The new metric is derived for models of various levels of sophistication: the 2-D barotropic model, the shallow-water model and the 3-D dry, compressible atmosphere in different vertical coordinates. Numerical calculations of the new metric are illustrated with analytic dynamical systems as well as with global reanalysis data. The differences from a commonly used metric and the potential for application in ensemble prediction, error growth analysis and predictability studies are discussed.
How much is particulate matter near the ground influenced by upper-level processes within and above the PBL? A summertime case study in Milan (Italy) evidences the distinctive role of nitrate
Authors: Curci G. , Ferrero L. , Tuccella P. , Barnaba F. , Angelini F. , Bolzacchini E. , Carbone C. , Denier van der Gon H. A. C. , Facchini M. C. , Gobbi G. P. , Kuenen J. P. P. , Landi T. C. , Perrino C. , Perrone M. G. , Sangiorgi G. , Stocchi P.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Chemical and dynamical processes lead to the formation of aerosol layers in the upper planetary boundary layer (PBL) and above it. Through vertical mixing and entrainment into the PBL these layers may contribute to the ground-level particulate matter (PM); however, to date a quantitative assessment of such a contribution has not been carried out. This study investigates this aspect by combining chemical and physical aerosol measurements with WRF/Chem (Weather Research and Forecasting with Chemistry) model simulations. The observations were collected in the Milan urban area (northern Italy) during the summer of 2007. The period coincided with the passage of a meteorological perturbation that cleansed the lower atmosphere, followed by a high-pressure period favouring pollutant accumulation. Lidar observations revealed the formation of elevated aerosol layers and evidence of their entrainment into the PBL. We analysed the budget of ground-level PM2.5 (particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter less than 2.5 μm) with the help of the online meteorology–chemistry WRF/Chem model, focusing in particular on the contribution of upper-level processes. Our findings show that an important player in determining the upper-PBL aerosol layer is particulate nitrate, which may reach higher values in the upper PBL (up to 30% of the aerosol mass) than in the lower PBL. The nitrate formation process is predicted to be largely driven by the relative-humidity vertical profile, which may trigger efficient aqueous nitrate formation when exceeding the ammonium nitrate deliquescence point. Secondary PM2.5 produced in the upper half of the PBL may contribute up to 7–8 μg m−3 (or 25%) to ground-level concentrations on an hourly basis. The residual aerosol layer above the PBL is also found to potentially play a large role, which may occasionally contribute up to 10–12 μg m−3 (or 40%) to hourly ground-level PM2.5 concentrations during the morning hours. Although the results presented here refer to one relatively short period in one location, this study highlights the importance of considering the interplay between chemical and dynamical processes occurring within and above the PBL when interpreting ground-level aerosol observations.
Analysis of the ozone profile specifications in the WRF-ARW model and their impact on the simulation of direct solar radiation
Authors: Montornès A. , Codina B. , Zack J. W.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Although ozone is an atmospheric gas with high spatial and temporal variability, mesoscale numerical weather prediction (NWP) models simplify the specification of ozone concentrations used in their shortwave schemes by using a few ozone profiles. In this paper, a two-part study is presented: (i) an evaluation of the quality of the ozone profiles provided for use with the shortwave schemes in the Advanced Research version of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF-ARW) model and (ii) an assessment of the impact of deficiencies in those profiles on the performance of model simulations of direct solar radiation. The first part compares simplified data sets used to specify the total ozone column in six schemes (i.e., Goddard, New Goddard, RRTMG, CAM, GFDL and Fu–Liou–Gu) with the Multi-Sensor Reanalysis data set during the period 1979–2008 examining the latitudinal, longitudinal and seasonal limitations in the ozone profile specifications of each parameterization. The results indicate that the maximum deviations are over the poles and show prominent longitudinal patterns in the departures due to the lack of representation of the patterns associated with the Brewer–Dobson circulation and the quasi-stationary features forced by the land–sea distribution, respectively. In the second part, the bias in the simulated direct solar radiation due to these deviations from the simplified spatial and temporal representation of the ozone distribution is analyzed for the New Goddard and CAM schemes using the Beer–Lambert–Bouguer law and for the GFDL using empirical equations. For radiative applications those simplifications introduce spatial and temporal biases with near-zero departures over the tropics throughout the year and increasing poleward with a maximum in the high middle latitudes during the winter of each hemisphere.
Sources and fluxes of organic nitrogen in precipitation over the southern East Sea/Sea of Japan
Authors: Yan G. , Kim G.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. We measured total dissolved reactive nitrogen in precipitation samples collected at Uljin, a Korean coastal site upwind of the southern East Sea/Sea of Japan (EJS), selected as a representative study site of atmospheric deposition over the northwestern Pacific margin. NO3- was found to be the most abundant nitrogen species, followed by NH4+ and dissolved organic nitrogen (DON). Air-mass back-trajectory (AMBT) analysis revealed that a significant fraction of the inorganic nitrogen (NO3- and NH4+) originated from mainland Asia, whereas the DON was primarily derived from Korea. Using varimax-rotated factor analysis in combination with major ions as tracers, agricultural activities in Korea were identified as the primary sources of DON in these samples. In addition, a positive correlation was found at Uljin between the size of organic fraction in total reactive nitrogen and nitrogen to carbon atomic ratio in organic matter. This correlation has also been observed at other locations worldwide, implying the utilization potential of atmospheric organic nitrogen might increase with its proportion in total nitrogen. Combining wet deposition measurements in this study with literature values for dry deposition observed at a remote island in the EJS, the total atmospheric depositional flux of reactive nitrogen was estimated to be 115 mmol N m−2 yr−1 over the southern EJS. Our study sheds new light on the potentially significant contribution to primary productivity of the northwestern Pacific Ocean by atmospheric deposition of nitrogen, especially the organic fraction.
A critical evaluation of proxy methods used to estimate the acidity of atmospheric particles
Authors: Hennigan C. J. , Izumi J. , Sullivan A. P. , Weber R. J. , Nenes A.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Given significant challenges with available measurements of aerosol acidity, proxy methods are frequently used to estimate the acidity of atmospheric particles. In this study, four of the most common aerosol acidity proxies are evaluated and compared: (1) the ion balance method, (2) the molar ratio method, (3) thermodynamic equilibrium models, and (4) the phase partitioning of ammonia. All methods are evaluated against predictions of thermodynamic models and against direct observations of aerosol–gas equilibrium partitioning acquired in Mexico City during the Megacity Initiative: Local and Global Research Objectives (MILAGRO) study. The ion balance and molar ratio methods assume that any deficit in inorganic cations relative to anions is due to the presence of H+ and that a higher H+ loading and lower cation / anion ratio both correspond to increasingly acidic particles (i.e., lower pH). Based on the MILAGRO measurements, no correlation is observed between H+ levels inferred with the ion balance and aerosol pH predicted by the thermodynamic models and NH3–NH4+ partitioning. Similarly, no relationship is observed between the cation / anion molar ratio and predicted aerosol pH. Using only measured aerosol chemical composition as inputs without any constraint for the gas phase, the E-AIM (Extended Aerosol Inorganics Model) and ISORROPIA-II thermodynamic equilibrium models tend to predict aerosol pH levels that are inconsistent with the observed NH3–NH4+ partitioning. The modeled pH values from both E-AIM and ISORROPIA-II run with gas + aerosol inputs agreed well with the aerosol pH predicted by the phase partitioning of ammonia. It appears that (1) thermodynamic models constrained by gas + aerosol measurements and (2) the phase partitioning of ammonia provide the best available predictions of aerosol pH. Furthermore, neither the ion balance nor the molar ratio can be used as surrogates for aerosol pH, and previously published studies with conclusions based on such acidity proxies may need to be reevaluated. Given the significance of acidity for chemical processes in the atmosphere, the implications of this study are important and far reaching.
Trapping, chemistry and export of trace gases in the South Asian summer monsoon observed during CARIBIC flights in 2008
Authors: Rauthe-Schöch A. , Baker A. K. , Schuck T. J. , Brenninkmeijer C. A. M. , Zahn A. , Hermann M. , Stratmann G. , Ziereis H. , van Velthoven P. F. J. , Lelieveld J.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. The CARIBIC (Civil Aircraft for the Regular Investigation of the Atmosphere Based on an Instrument Container) passenger aircraft observatory performed in situ measurements at 10–12 km altitude in the South Asian summer monsoon anticyclone between June and September 2008. These measurements enable us to investigate this atmospheric region, which so far has mostly been observed from satellites, using the broad suite of trace gases and aerosols measured by CARIBIC. Elevated levels of a range of atmospheric pollutants were recorded e.g. carbon monoxide, total reactive nitrogen oxides, aerosol particles and several volatile organic compounds. The measurements provide detailed information about the chemical composition of air in different parts of the monsoon anticyclone, particularly of ozone precursors. While covering a range of 3500 km inside the monsoon anticyclone, CARIBIC observations show remarkable consistency, i.e. with regular latitudinal patterns of trace gases during the entire monsoon period. Trajectory calculations indicate that these air masses originated mainly from South Asia and Mainland Southeast Asia. Using the CARIBIC trace gas and aerosol measurements in combination with the Lagrangian particle dispersion model FLEXPART we investigated the characteristics of monsoon outflow and the chemical evolution of air masses during transport. Estimated photochemical ages of the air were found to agree well with transport times from a source region east of 95° E. The photochemical ages of the air in the southern part of the monsoon anticyclone were consistently younger (less than 7 days) and the air masses mostly in an ozone forming chemical regime. In its northern part the air masses were older (up to 13 days) and had unclear ozone formation or destruction potential. Based on analysis of forward trajectories several receptor regions were identified. In addition to predominantly westward transport, we found evidence for efficient transport (within 10 days) to the Pacific and North America, particularly during June and September, and also of cross-tropopause exchange, which was strongest during June and July. Westward transport to Africa and further to the Mediterranean was the main pathway during July.
Contrail life cycle and properties from one year of MSG/SEVIRI rapid-scan images
Authors: Vázquez-Navarro M. , Mannstein H. , Kox S.
Published: March 2015

The Automatic Contrail Tracking Algorithm (ACTA) -developed to automatically follow contrails as they age, drift and spread- enables the study of a large number of contrails and the evolution of contrail properties with time. In this paper we present a year's worth of tracked contrails, from August 2008 to July 2009 in order to derive statistically significant mean values. The tracking is performed using the 5 min rapid-scan mode of the Spinning Enhanced Visible and Infrared Imager (SEVIRI) on board of the Meteosat Second Generation satellites (MSG). The detection is based on the high spatial resolution of the images provided by the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer on board of the Terra satellite (Terra/MODIS), where a Contrail Detection Algorithm (CDA) is applied. The results show the satellite-derived average lifetimes of contrails and contrail-cirrus along with the probability density function (PDF) of other geometric characteristics such as mean coverage, distribution and width. In combination with specifically developed algorithms (RRUMS and COCS, explained below) it is possible to derive the radiative forcing (RF), energy forcing (EF), optical thickness (τ), and altitude of the tracked contrails. Mean values here retrieved are: duration, 1 h; length, 130 km; width, 8 km; altitude, 11.7 km; optical thickness, 0.34. Radiative forcing and energy forcing are shown for land/water backgrounds in day/night situations.
Block-based cloud classification with statistical features and distribution of local texture features
Authors: Cheng H.-Y. , Yu C.-C.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. This work performs cloud classification on all-sky images. To deal with mixed cloud types in one image, we propose performing block division and block-based classification. In addition to classical statistical texture features, the proposed method incorporates local binary pattern, which extracts local texture features in the feature vector. The combined feature can effectively preserve global information as well as more discriminating local texture features of different cloud types. The experimental results have shown that applying the combined feature results in higher classification accuracy compared to using classical statistical texture features. In our experiments, it is also validated that using block-based classification outperforms classification on the entire images. Moreover, we report the classification accuracy using different classifiers including the k-nearest neighbor classifier, Bayesian classifier, and support vector machine.
Contribution of the multi-attribute value theory to conflict resolution in groundwater management – application to the Mancha Oriental groundwater system, Spain
Authors: Apperl B. , Pulido-Velazquez M. , Andreu J. , Karjalainen T. P.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. The implementation of the EU Water Framework Directive demands participatory water resource management approaches. Decision making in groundwater quantity and quality management is complex because of the existence of many independent actors, heterogeneous stakeholder interests, multiple objectives, different potential policies, and uncertain outcomes. Conflicting stakeholder interests have often been identified as an impediment to the realisation and success of water regulations and policies. The management of complex groundwater systems requires the clarification of stakeholders' positions (identifying stakeholder preferences and values), improving transparency with respect to outcomes of alternatives, and moving the discussion from the selection of alternatives towards the definition of fundamental objectives (value-thinking approach), which facilitates negotiation. The aims of the study are to analyse the potential of the multi-attribute value theory for conflict resolution in groundwater management and to evaluate the benefit of stakeholder incorporation into the different stages of the planning process, to find an overall satisfying solution for groundwater management. The research was conducted in the Mancha Oriental groundwater system (Spain), subject to intensive use of groundwater for irrigation. A complex set of objectives and attributes was defined, and the management alternatives were created by a combination of different fundamental actions, considering different implementation stages and future changes in water resource availability. Interviews were conducted with representative stakeholder groups using an interactive platform, showing simultaneously the consequences of changes in preferences to the alternative ranking. Results show that the approval of alternatives depends strongly on the combination of measures and the implementation stages. Uncertainties in the results were notable, but did not influence the alternative ranking heavily. The expected reduction in future groundwater resources by climate change increases the conflict potential. The implementation of the method in a very complex case study, with many conflicting objectives and alternatives and uncertain outcomes, including future scenarios under water limiting conditions, illustrates the potential of the method for supporting management decisions.
How useful and reliable are disaster databases in the context of climate and global change? A comparative case study analysis in Peru
Authors: Huggel C. , Raissig A. , Rohrer M. , Romero G. , Diaz A. , Salzmann N.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Damage caused by weather- and climate-related disasters have increased over the past decades, and growing exposure and wealth have been identified as main drivers of this increase. Disaster databases are a primary tool for the analysis of disaster characteristics and trends at global or national scales, and they support disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation. However, the quality, consistency and completeness of different disaster databases are highly variable. Even though such variation critically influences the outcome of any study, comparative analyses of different databases are still rare to date. Furthermore, there is an unequal geographic distribution of current disaster trend studies, with developing countries being underrepresented. Here, we analyze three different disaster databases in the developing-country context of Peru: a global database (Emergency Events Database: EM-DAT), a multinational Latin American database (DesInventar) and a national database (Peruvian National Information System for the Prevention of Disasters: SINPAD). The analysis is performed across three dimensions: (1) spatial scales, from local to regional (provincial) and national scale; (2) timescales, from single events to decadal trends; and (3) disaster categories and metrics, including the number of single disaster event occurrence, or people killed and affected. Results show limited changes in disaster occurrence in the Cusco and ApurÍmac regions in southern Peru over the past four decades but strong positive trends in people affected at the national scale. We furthermore found large variations of the disaster metrics studied over different spatial and temporal scales, depending on the disaster database analyzed. We conclude and recommend that the type, method and source of documentation should be carefully evaluated for any analysis of disaster databases; reporting criteria should be improved and documentation efforts strengthened.
Satellite monitoring of glaciers in the Karakoram from 1977 to 2013: an overall almost stable population of dynamic glaciers
Authors: Brahmbhatt R. M. , Bahuguna I. M. , Rathore B. P. , Singh S. K. , Rajawat A. S. , Shah R. D. , Kargel J. S.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Six hundred and seven glaciers of the Shigar, Shashghan, Nubra and part of Shyok sub-basins of the Karakoram region were monitored using satellite data of years 1977, 1990, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2013. Landsat MSS, TM, ETM+ and IRS/Resourcesat-1 LISS III data were used. Glacier observations were classified into 3 categories such as advance, retreat or stable with reference to base data of 1977. Glaciers of the Karakoram have shown inconsistency in advance, retreat and no change during this period, and some examples of glacier surging have been caught in action. Despite significant geographic and temporal variability betraying the dynamic nature of many of the glaciers, in aggregate the population is roughly stable with less propensity toward retreat than most other glaciers in the nearby Himalaya and in the world. 341 glaciers exhibited no measured change throughout the 36 years of the study. Among other glaciers, no significant and sustained pattern of retreat or advance was observed. The overall changes in glacier area in the whole region are of small magnitudes (positive and negative values) in the various measured intervals. Moreover, it is mostly disconnected glaciers in tributary valleys which have advanced, whereas the main former trunk glaciers have primarily not changed. The dynamical differences between disconnected former tributaries and trunks may be related to response time differences, with the smaller, perhaps steeper tributaries responding more rapidly than trunks to brief climatic fluctuations. The advance/retreat fluctuations of many individual glaciers suggest that their response times primarily may be of order decades rather than some longer period, though some glaciers may have longer response times that have limited their length and area changes over the 36 year study period. The data from 2001 onwards were also utilized for finding annual changes of glaciers. Among the 607 glaciers, 10 show considerable fluctuation in their area; in several cases surge-waste cycles appear to be active. Glacier thickness change measurements are needed to aid our understanding of the regional glacier dynamics and relationships to climate change and area-response dynamics.
Vascular access Creation and Care Should be Provided by Nephrologists
Authors: Malovrh Marko
Published: March 2015

The long-term survival and quality of life of patients on hemodialysis is dependent on the adequacy of dialysis via an appropriately placed vascular access. Recent clinical practice guidelines recommend the creation of native arteriovenous fistula or synthetic graft before start of chronic hemodialysis therapy to prevent the need for complication-prone dialysis catheters. The direct involvement of nephrologists in the management of referral patterns, predialysis follow-up, policy of venous preservation, pre-operative evaluation, vascular access surgery and vascular access care seems to be important and productive targets for the quality of care delivered to the patients with end-stage renal disease. Early referral to nephrologists is important for delay progression of both kidney disease and its complications by specific and adequate treatment, for education program which should include modification of lifestyle, medication management, selection of treatment modality and instruction for vein preservation and vascular access. Nephrologists are responsible for on-time placement and adequate maturation of vascular access. The number of nephrologists around the world who create their own fistulas and grafts is growing, driven by a need for better patient outcomes on hemodialysis. Nephrologists have also a key role for care of vascular access during hemodialysis treatment by following vascular access function using clinical data, physical examination and additional ultrasound evaluation. Timely detection of malfunctioning vascular access means timely surgical or radiological intervention and increases the survival of vascular access.
Promises for the Future: Minimally Invasive Fistula Creation
Authors: Rajan Dheeraj K. , Lok Charmaine E.
Published: March 2015

The surgical creation of an autogenous fistula is the vascular access of choice for delivery of hemodialysis. However, it is prone to relatively high rates of maturation failure, stenosis and thrombosis. Most of these problems can be attributed to the surgical creation itself. Percutaneous or endovascular creation of an autogenous fistula offers the possibility of overcoming some of these problems.
Hemodialysis Vascular access Management in the Netherlands
Authors: Tordoir Jan H.M. , van Loon Magda M. , ter Meer Margreet , van Laanen Jorinde , Bode Aron S. , Weijmer Marcel C. , Peppelenbosch Noud
Published: March 2015

Purpose

In the Netherlands, 86% of patients start renal replacement therapy with chronic intermittent hemodialysis (HD). Guidelines do indicate predialysis care and maintenance of a well-functioning vascular access (VA) as critical issues in the management of the renal failure patient. Referral to the surgeon and time to VA creation are important determinants of the type and success of the VA and HD treatment.

Methods and Results

Data from a national questionnaire showed that time from referral to the surgeon and actual access creation is <4 weeks in 43%, 4 to 8 weeks in 30% and >8 weeks in 27% of the centers. Pre-Operative ultrasonography and postoperative access flowmetry are the diagnostic methods in the majority of centers (98%). Most facilities perform rope-ladder cannulation with occasionally the buttonhole technique for selected patients in 87% of the dialysis units. Endovascular intervention for thrombosis is practiced by 13%, surgical thrombectomy by 21% and either endovascular or surgery by 66% of the centers. Weekly multidisciplinary meetings are organized in 57% of the units. Central vein catheters are inserted by radiologists (36%), nephrologists and surgeons (32%).

Conclusions

We conclude that guidelines implementation has been successful in particular regarding issues as pre-operative patient assessment for VA creation and postoperative surveillance in combination with (preemptive) endovascular intervention, leading to very acceptable VA thrombosis rates.
Engaging the skill set of the Millennials: Librarians, content and technology in the mobile age
Authors: Hawthorne Jill L.
Published: March 2015

The Millennial Generation student consumes and interacts with information in a multiplicity of ways, at any time, in any location. Where Generation X took computer skills from study to employment, Millennials have grown up with an array of devices - from games consoles to computers to smartphones to e-readers to tablets. They read, message, watch video, chat, blog, photograph and tweet, interrogating and assimilating data across diverse formats. The speed and flow of information alters expectations and provides opportunities to research, share and learn faster and more effectively. This paper reviews library science and educational literature on the Millennials in the last ten years. It outlines how Millennials have been characterized and how academic libraries have responded to their needs, with special reference to mobile services. It provides examples of the functionality and services that currently typify university library apps and mobile-optimized sites in the UK and USA. The generational lens, it concludes, provides a useful perspective on key developments in academic libraries in recent times.
Linking library profession and the market place: Finding connections for the library in the digital environment.
Authors: Boumarafi Behdja
Published: March 2015

The fast-paced changing information environment calls for continual development of libraries and information institutions to cope with the changes of the digital environment. To ensure this, there is a need to understand the current employment trends to identify the competencies and skills required of professionals. The advent of ICT has created a real paradigm shift in Library operations so information professionals are working at the leading edge of the internet and the web technology, i.e.: web2.0, web3.0, leading to more web-based services. Moreover, the digital environment is reshaping the whole context within which information is being generated, processed, and delivered through online networks. This has strategic significance for library professionals in facing the challenges of this ever-changing information environment in which ICT is the major source for survival and development. This is having a direct impact on librarydevelopment, a development which is reflected in the literature as required by the market place. The inevitable consequences for professionals are to be equipped with the necessary skills and competencies applicable to the cyber environment to meet the demands of the ever changing job market. The paper identifies the characteristics required of LIS workers to serve the expandingand changing information market as reflected in job announcements posted on the listserv of the IFLA from January to August 2014 to create a synergy between the profession and the current employment trends. A sample set of 259 job advertisements posted by academic, public and special libraries are selected and are grouped in four categories these are:• Technology–based positions with 48.71% of the advertisements.• Public/information services skills listed by 22.87% of the openings.• Technical services skills scored 18.64% of the available jobs• Personal attributes are mentioned in 9.74% positions.Most positions are available in Academic libraries.
Valuing Preferences for Environmental Sustainability in Fruit Production by United Kingdom and Japanese Consumers
Authors: Tait Peter R. , Saunders Caroline , Guenther Meike
Published: March 2015

Reduction of carbon intensity of high volume grocery products is potentially a major contributor in meeting climate targets. In a choice experiment concerning fruit purchase decisions in the United Kingdom and Japan, this study estimates consumer willingness to pay for sustainability attributes of production alongside vitamin content, including water use efficiency, waste and packaging, and carbon emissions. Results indicate that sustainability attributes significantly influence consumers’ fruit purchase decisions. Preferences are found to be very similar between countries, with reduction of carbon emissions the most valued sustainability attribute by both UK and Japanese consumers and increased vitamin content the least. This study’s findings provide implications for carbon emission labeling development in the context of international food supply chains, and primary sector strategy encouraging initiatives to improve environmental performance domestically.