bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Que vaut une molécule ?
Authors: Doganova Liliana
Published: March 2015

Suite à l’avènement des biotechnologies et aux appels à un impératif transfert des connaissances scientifiques vers l’industrie, le développement de nouveaux médicaments recourt de plus en plus à des partenariats entre groupes pharmaceutiques et start-up créées à partir de la recherche publique. Ces partenariats reposent sur des relations économiques dans lesquelles des projets de recherche et développement (R&D) sont vendus et achetés. Comment la valeur des projets de R&D est-elle alors constituée et mesurée en vue de réaliser un échange marchand ? C’est la question qu’aborde cet article, en se penchant sur l’outil le plus répandu dans la valorisation des projets de développement de nouveaux médicaments : la formule des flux actualisés (discounted cash flow ou DCF). Largement utilisée, cette formule est aussi vivement critiquée car elle produit des résultats instables et accorde une valeur trop faible aux projets exploratoires. À travers l’examen des pratiques de valorisation, cet article décrit l’infrastructure métrologique sur laquelle repose le pouvoir de calcul de la formule et montre que, de manière paradoxale, c’est parce qu’elle calcule « mal » que justement cette formule « marche ».
Le catalogue des ventes de l’ONF
Authors: Marty Gérard
Published: March 2015

Les ventes aux enchères de bois public en France portent majoritairement sur des lots de bois vendus en bloc et sur pied ou façonnés. Cette spécificité implique pour les acheteurs de se déplacer dans les forêts pour estimer la valeur de lots physiquement absents le jour de la vente. Cette contrainte, à l’origine de coûts de transaction élevés, a conduit l’Office National des Forêts à produire pour chaque lot singulier des connaissances quantitatives et qualitatives qui sont regroupées dans un catalogue des ventes. Dans cet article, nous présentons la façon dont ce dispositif cognitif, tel un commis au « format papier », équipe les acheteurs et facilite leur choix dans le processus de sélection des lots mis en vente. Cependant, nous montrons qu’en raison de la divergence existante entre la convention de mesure de l’ONF (basée sur une logique de volume), mobilisée pour élaborer le catalogue, et celles retenues par les acheteurs (basées sur une logique de produits), l’objectivation marchande des lots par les protagonistes est difficile à envisager. Cette situation, qui explique la raison du maintien des visites sur le terrain par les acheteurs, permet par ailleurs de mieux appréhender l’impact négatif que le catalogue, dont les données servent à fixer le prix de retrait, peut avoir sur le nombre de lots invendus.
La gestion du risque d'investissement dans le projet d'extension d'une ferme agropastorale : « le berger d'Abrila »
Authors: Mahoukou Myriam
Published: March 2015

L’analyse du projet d’extension de la ferme dénommée « Le Berger d’Abrila » constitue une étude de cas, dans le cadre des études portant sur la gestion du risque d’investissement. Il s’agit non seulement de comprendre comment fonctionnent les outils appliqués en matière de gestion des risques, mais aussi d’évaluer la rentabilité du projet. Les indicateurs suivants utilisés notamment, l’échéancier de l’investissement, les comptes prévisionnels de résultats, révèlent les risques financiers et de trésorerie que court le projet de la création de la ferme. Vu sous l’angle des deux hypothèses, de stabilité ou d’instabilité des prix, on est en présence d’un projet d’investissement qui implique, doit l’attente, soit, la gestion des sous-projets liés au projet proprement dit.
Analyse du marketing-mix du produit « source eau Mayo »
Authors: Lipika Claude
Published: March 2015

La SN PLASCO offre sur le marché de Brazzaville le produit « Source Eau Mayo ». Cette eau minérale est offerte sur un marché concurrentiel qui impose à la SN PLASCO une stratégie fondée sur la marketing-mix afin d’être plus compétitive et de conserver son leadership. Ceci n’est possible que si les faiblesses que présente son marketing-mix sont corrigées. À cet égard, les problèmes se situent fondamentalement au niveau de la publicité et du prix du produit.
La problematique de l'emergence economique des pays en voie de developpement
Authors: Mbaloula Marcel
Published: March 2015

L’émergence économique du Brésil, de la Russie, de l’Inde et de la Chine, constituant le groupe appelé les BRIC , a incité d’autres pays africains à se fixer comme objectifs stratégiques, être pays émergents. Quoique le concept de « pays émergent » ne corresponde à aucune définition économique, il reste qu’il est devenu une préoccupation politique tant pour les spécialistes en économie de développement que pour les hommes politiques. Cette intention stratégique, pour ces derniers, semble oublier que l’émergence économique est différente du développement du pays. L’article se propose de clarifier les sens des deux concepts afin de mieux s’inscrire dans une logique de stratégie de développement visant l’amélioration des conditions de vie des ménages. Les succès mitigés présentés part les pays émergents nous éclairent sur la fragilité du concept d’émergence économique par rapport aux enjeux du développement humain.
Le rôle des joint-ventures et alliances stratégiques dans l'internationalisation des multinationales chinoises : évidence pour les pays d'Afrique centrale
Authors: Dzaka-Kikouta Théophile
Published: March 2015

L’objet de ce papier consiste à répondre à la question de savoir quel est le rôle spécifique des Joint-ventures (JV) et autres alliances stratégiques dans la réalisation des IDE par les FMN chinoises en Afrique centrale ? On montre d’abord dans quelle mesure le recours aux JV sino-occidentales ont aidé les firmes chinoises à améliorer leurs capacités techniques et managériales tant sur le marché domestique que sur les marchés étrangers ; on montre ensuite qu’en contexte des pays d’Afrique centrale, membres de la CEEAC , les JV et autres alliances stratégiques sont devenues un vecteur majeur de réalisation des IDE par les Multinationales chinoises. On soutient l’hypothèse que dans le contexte des pays d’Afrique centrale, les multinationales chinoises concluent des JV et autres alliances stratégiques pour essentiellement, garantir l’approvisionnement en matières premières, dans le cadre de package deals ou « modèle angolais » liant IDE à l’ APD  ; ensuite, pour conquérir les marchés étrangers ; enfin et dans une moindre mesure, pour acquérir les actifs stratégiques (auprès des multinationales occidentales et celles d’autres pays émergents, opérant aussi en CEEAC ). En conclusion, on déduit que ce mouvement des IDE effectués par les FMN chinoises vers l’Afrique centrale, devrait, sous réserve d’une meilleure gouvernance économique et politique de la part des pays récipiendaires, contribuer au processus de leur développement durable.
L'impact des technologies de l'information et de la communication sur la production des petites et moyennes entreprises dans les villes de Brazzaville et Pointe-Noire : une analyse par les coûts de transactions
Authors: René Samba
Published: March 2015

Avec l’évolution croissante des Technologies de l’Information et de la Communication ( TIC ) ces vingt dernières années, la course à l’acquisition en équipement TIC a pris de l’ampleur à travers le monde, notamment dans les entreprises. La question des liens entre les TIC et les Petites et Moyennes Entreprises ( PME ), reste à l’ordre du jour. Selon la littérature économique, l’apparition des outils informatiques mis en réseau au début des années 1980 ont renouvelé sans cesse l’approche des marchés concurrentiels. La montée de la globalisation, l’irruption des TIC et de l’Internet ont induit de nombreux bouleversements, dont la réorganisation du système d’information et de gestion, la réduction des coûts de transaction et l’amélioration des performances économiques dans l’entreprise. En République du Congo, la pénurie des compétences en TIC reste visible dans le secteur des PME . Le niveau de pénétration des PME dans le secteur des ressources en TIC demeure encore faible, à cause des difficultés liées à l’’accès au financement d’une part, et du fait de l’absence de formation de certains propriétaires gérant en matière de TIC d’autre part. La situation des PME congolaises face à la montée des TIC , reste incertaine. La nécessité d’appréhender leur position face aux TIC s’avère importante afin d’apprécier l’impact de celles-ci sur le rendement des PME . L’objectif de cette étude consiste à analyser l’impact de l’usage des TIC sur la production des PME dans les deux grandes villes du Congo (Brazzaville et Pointe-Noire). Au plan méthodologique, une enquête a été réalisée auprès de 118 PME dans les villes de Brazzaville et Pointe-Noire. Les données relatives à cette enquête ont été traitées au moyen d’un modèle logistique reliant la production aux facteurs de production usuels (capital et travail) et les TIC . Des résultats obtenus, se dégagent les difficultés de la chaîne d’approvisionnement et de l’absence du réseau efficace. L’échange des données informatisées (EDI) est méconnu des PME , de même la conception de réseau efficace d’accès à l’information commerciale stratégique n’est pas encore ancrée par les organisations patronales et les décideurs publics. Cependant, en dépit des coûts élevés des TIC, celles-ci ont dans une certaine mesure, permis aux PME d’améliorer leur rendement en réduisant leurs coûts de transaction.
Les déterminants de la compétitivité des franchises internationales : une analyse empirique du cas du Cameroun
Authors: Ananga Onana Anaclet , Bikay Bi Batoum Joseph , Wanda Robert
Published: March 2015

L’objet de ce papier est de déterminer les variables de franchise internationale qui peuvent influencer leur compétitivité. Cette étude s’appuie sur une enquête par questionnaire menée auprès de 40 franchises Internationales observées de 2005 à 2008. A partir d’une régression logistique, il est apparu au travers d’une analyse empirique que l’assistance technique (Bercovitz, 1999), le taux de royalties, les employés affectés pour la vente des produits de la franchise (Norton, 1988) ainsi que l’accès au marché par le partenaire local (Stopford et Wells, 1972 ; Beamish, 1985 ; Janger, 1980 ; Tomlinson, 1970 ; Reynolds, 1979 ; et AlidouOuédrago, 2003).se présentent comme des variables qui sont de nature à influencer la compétitivité des franchises internationales.
Les facteurs incitateurs de la croissance du secteur bancaire prive en Angola et au Congo
Authors: Campos Campos Viera , Makimin’a Mbama Myriam Lorenz
Published: March 2015

Les secteurs bancaires en Afrique au sud du Sahara sont peu dynamiques au regard des normes conservatrices édictées par la Commission Bancaire d’Afrique. En Afrique centrale, l’Angola et le Congo affichent des situations qui confirment cette hypothèse. Notre étude s’est donc focalisée sur l’identification des facteurs d’incitation à l’investissement bancaire privé en Angola et au Congo après avoir mis en exergue les faiblesses des deux systèmes bancaires africains. Une telle perspective s’inscrit dans la logique de l’émergence de l’économie privée dans ces deux pays à côté d’une économie relevant fondamentalement de l’État.
Contribution de l'approche processus à la réduction de la non-conformité : diagnostic organisationnel de la direction des cultures de SARIS au Congo
Authors: Boukoulou H. , Bakouetila Mialoundama G.F. , Bachet D. , Sebag J. , Durand J.P , Viremouneix Th. , Makélé R. , Ndi Mbarga L.
Published: March 2015

Cette étude s’inscrit dans le cadre d’un projet de mise en place d’un système qualité à la direction des cultures de Saris Congo. Le diagnostic organisationnel de cette direction a permis, à travers l’approche processus, d’identifier les activités critiques, empêchant les différents processus de se réaliser convenablement. À partir des outils de la qualité utilisés au cours d’analyse processus, il a été possible d’établir la cartographie des processus, de procéder à la description de chaque processus de réalisation et d’identifier les différentes interactions entre les activités d’un même processus. L’intérêt des processus se trouve dans la relation client et fournisseur interne et permet donc d’augmenter l’efficacité du diagnostic, tout en s’insérant dans une démarche d’amélioration continue.
La motivation des jeunes pour la formation théologique : cas des étudiants externes de la faculté de théologie protestante de Brazzaville
Authors: Lengo Richard Macaire , Makino Jacques
Published: March 2015

L’Eglise Evangélique du Congo est une Eglise de confession protestante. Devenue automne, elle fonctionne avec un personnel dont le recrutement s’avère problématique au regard des comportements affichés par les pasteurs ou les évangélistes. Pour les travailleurs la question générale de la motivation devient cruciale à côté de celle qui revêt un caractère spécifique, la vocation. Dès lors que l’efficacité de l’Eglise, en tant qu’institution sans but lucratif contribuant à l’amélioration des conditions de vie des populations, devient une préoccupation, l’étude propose une analyse relative à la sociologie des organisations avec des solutions permettant de corriger les faiblesses de l’Eglise-institution.
Les serious games au service de la gestion des ressources humaines : une cartographie dans les entreprises du CAC40
Authors: Allal-Chérif Oihab , Makhlouf Mohamed , Bajard Armand
Published: March 2015

Depuis le début des années 2000, les serious games deviennent de plus en plus populaires dans les grandes entreprises françaises, en particulier auprès des managers des ressources humaines qui les utilisent pour recruter, intégrer, former, accompagner, valoriser, communiquer et sensibiliser. Pourtant, peu de travaux de recherche leurs sont consacrés dans la littérature académique en sciences de gestion. L’objectif de cet article est de proposer une cartographie des serious games en fonction de leurs usages en gestion des ressources humaines. Afin d’établir cette cartographie, un recensement de tous les serious games utilisés par les entreprises du CAC40 a été effectué. 114 serious games ont ainsi été répertoriés pour les 43 sociétés cotées depuis décembre 2011. Ces jeux ont été classés en trois catégories et en 11 sous-catégories en fonction de leurs usages par destination. Chacune de ces catégories est ensuite étudiée et caractérisée plus finement à partir d’exemples. La collecte des informations se fait en quatre étapes successives sur la base de quatre types de sources, ce qui permet de recouper les données et d’en améliorer la fiabilité. Cette étude est la première qui démontre que toutes les sociétés du CAC40 utilisent des jeux sérieux et même que sept d’entre elles en ont adopté au moins cinq. Ce travail de recherche est également le premier à proposer une cartographie détaillée des serious games en fonction de leurs usages en gestion des ressources humaines. La discussion montre comment la cartographie présentée permet d’opérationnaliser le concept de serious games et de mieux en comprendre et choisir les usages spécifiques au champ des ressources humaines.
Adjustment of Anterior Corneal Astigmatism Values to Incorporate the Likely Effect of Posterior Corneal Curvature for Toric Intraocular Lens Calculation
Authors: Goggin Michael , Zamora-Alejo Katherine , Esterman Adrian , van Zyl Lourens
Published: March 2015

PURPOSE:

To establish if average refractive overcorrection or undercorrection of corneal astigmatism based on the “rule” of the astigmatism occurs if toric intraocular lenses (IOLs) are calculated on the basis of anterior corneal measurements, and to calculate an adjustment for individual eyes to avoid this systematic error.

METHODS:

One hundred forty-three consecutive eyes of 115 patients underwent phacoemulsification with IOL powers calculated using anterior corneal curvature data alone. Eyes were grouped as either “with-the-rule” or “against-the-rule” on the basis of the steep anterior corneal meridian. Targeted versus achieved astigmatic outcomes were compared. Main outcome measure was residual refractive astigmatism following the insertion of a toric IOL due to the likely effect of posterior corneal astigmatism.

RESULTS:

Significant prediction errors in astigmatic outcome occurred only with IOL cylinders of 2 diopters or less. Overcorrection occurred by a factor of 1.38 in with-the-rule eyes and undercorrection occurred by a factor of 0.65 in against-the-rule eyes.

CONCLUSIONS:

A coefficient of adjustment of 0.75 for with-the-rule eyes and 1.41 for against-the-rule eyes can be applied to the corneal astigmatism power value to calculate a more appropriate IOL cylinder power than that calculated by using unadjusted anterior corneal curvature measurements. These adjustment coefficients apply only to those eyes that would have received IOLs with 2 diopters of cylinder or less and calculated with such unadjusted measurements. Greater IOL cylinder powers are sufficiently accurately calculated using unadjusted values.

[
J Refract Surg
. 2015;31(2):98–102.]
Spectrum of Outpatient Illness in a School-Based Cohort in Haiti, with a Focus on Diarrheal Pathogens
Authors: Beau De Rochars Valery E. M. , Alam Meer T. , Telisma Taina , Masse Roseline , Chavannes Sonese , Anilis Marie G. , Guillaume Herold Jean , Gelin Gedeon , Kirkpatrick Ericka L. , Okech Bernard A. , Weppelmann Thomas A. , Rashid Mohammed , Karst Stephanie , Johnson Judith A. , Ali Afsar , Morris J. Glenn
Published: March 2015

Currently, there are only limited data available on rates of major diagnostic categories of illnesses among Haitian children. We have established a cohort of 1,245 students attending schools run by the Christianville Foundation in the Gressier/Leogane region of Haiti, for whom our group provides primary medical care. Among 1,357 clinic visits during the 2012–2013 academic year, the main disease categories (with rates per 1,000 child years of observation) included acute respiratory infection (ARI) (385.6 cases/1,000 child years of observation), gastrointestinal complaints (277.8 cases/1,000 child years), febrile illness (235.0 cases/1,000 child years), and skin infections (151.7 cases/1,000 child years). The most common diarrheal pathogen was enteroaggregative Escherichia coli (present in 17% of children with diarrhea); Vibrio cholerae O1 and norovirus were the next most common. Our data highlight the importance of better defining etiologies for ARI and febrile illnesses and continuing problems of diarrheal illness in this region, including mild cases of cholera, which would not have been diagnosed without laboratory screening.
The Prevalence of Blastocystis hominis and Other Protozoan Parasites in Soldiers Returning from Peacekeeping Missions
Authors: Duda Aleksandra , Kosik-Bogacka Danuta , Lanocha-Arendarczyk Natalia , Kołodziejczyk Lidia , Lanocha Aleksandra
Published: March 2015

Blastocystis hominis is a common intestinal parasite found in humans living in poor sanitary conditions, living in tropical and subtropical climates, exposed to infected animals, or consuming contaminated food or water. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of B. hominis in Polish military personnel returning from peacekeeping missions in Iraq and Afghanistan. In total, 1,826 stool samples were examined. Gastrointestinal parasites were detected in 17% of the soldiers. The examined stool samples most frequently contained vacuolar forms of B. hominis (15.3%) and cysts of Entamoeba coli (1.0%) or Giardia lamblia (0.7%). In 97.1% of stool samples from infected soldiers, we observed less than five developmental forms of B. hominis in the field of view (40×). The parasite infections in soldiers were diagnosed in the autumn and the spring. There was no statistical correlation between age and B. hominis infection. Our results show that peacekeeping missions in countries with tropical or subtropical climates could be associated with risk for parasitic diseases, including blastocystosis.
A Review of Mosquitoes Associated with Rift Valley Fever Virus in Madagascar
Authors: Tantely Luciano M. , Boyer Sébastien , Fontenille Didier
Published: March 2015

Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a viral zoonotic disease occurring throughout Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and Madagascar. The disease is caused by a Phlebovirus (RVF virus [RVFV]) transmitted to vertebrate hosts through the bite of infected mosquitoes. In Madagascar, the first RVFV circulation was reported in 1979 based on detection in mosquitoes but without epidemic episode. Subsequently, two outbreaks occurred: the first along the east coast and in the central highlands in 1990 and 1991 and the most recent along the northern and eastern coasts and in the central highlands in 2008 and 2009. Despite the presence of 24 mosquitoes species potentially associated with RVFV transmission in Madagascar, little associated entomological information is available. In this review, we list the RVFV vector, Culex antennatus, as well as other taxa as candidate vector species. We discuss risk factors from an entomological perspective for the re-emergence of RVF in Madagascar.
Maji: A New Tool to Prevent Overhydration of Children Receiving Intravenous Fluid Therapy in Low-Resource Settings
Authors: Shah Kamal , Skerrett Erica , Nojoomi Matthew , Walker Thor , Maynard Kelley , Pan Michael , Flynn Bailey , Yuan Melissa , Horton Paige , Vaughn Taylor , Miros Robert , Molyneux Elizabeth , Saterbak Ann , Oden Z Maria , Richards-Kortum Rebecca
Published: March 2015

We designed and evaluated the accuracy and usability of a device to regulate the volume of fluid dispensed during intravenous drip therapy. The mechanical system was developed in response to a pressing need articulated by clinicians in pediatric wards throughout sub-Saharan Africa, who require a tool to prevent overhydration in children receiving intravenous fluid in settings that lack burettes or electronic infusion pumps. The device is compatible with most intravenous bags and limits the volume dispensed to a preset amount that can be adjusted in 50 mL increments. Laboratory accuracy over a range of clinically-relevant flow rates, initial bag volumes, and target volumes was within 12.0 mL of the target volume. The ease of use is “excellent,” with a mean system usability score of 84.4 out of 100. Use of the device limits the volume of fluid dispensed during intravenous therapy and could potentially reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with overhydration in children receiving intravenous therapy.
Brown carbon aerosol in the North American continental troposphere: sources, abundance, and radiative forcing
Authors: Liu J. , Scheuer E. , Dibb J. , Diskin G. S. , Ziemba L. D. , Thornhill K. L. , Anderson B. E. , Wisthaler A. , Mikoviny T. , Devi J. J. , Bergin M. , Perring A. E. , Markovic M. Z. , Schwarz J. P. , Campuzano-Jost P. , Day D. A. , Jimenez J. L. , Weber R. J.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Chemical components of organic aerosol selectively absorb light at short wavelengths. In this study, the prevalence, sources, and optical importance of this so-called brown carbon (BrC) aerosol component are investigated throughout the North American continental tropospheric column during a summer of extensive biomass burning. Spectrophotometric absorption measurements on extracts of bulk aerosol samples collected from an aircraft over the central USA were analyzed to directly quantify BrC abundance. BrC was found to be prevalent throughout the 1 to 12 km altitude measurement range, with dramatic enhancements in biomass burning plumes. BrC to black carbon (BC) ratios, under background tropospheric conditions, increased with altitude, consistent with a corresponding increase in the Absorption Ångström Exponent (AAE) determined from a 3-wavelength Particle Soot Absorption Photometer (PSAP). The sum of inferred BC absorption and measured BrC absorption at 365 nm was within 3% of the measured PSAP absorption for background conditions and 22% for biomass burning. A radiative transfer model showed that BrC absorption reduced top of atmosphere aerosol forcing by ~20% in the background troposphere. Extensive radiative model simulations applying this studies background tropospheric conditions provided a look-up chart for determining radiative forcing efficiencies of BrC as a function of surface-measured BrC–BC ratio and single scattering albedo (SSA). The chart is a first attempt to provide a tool for better assessment of brown carbon's forcing effect when one is limited to only surface data. These results indicate that BrC is an important component of direct aerosol radiative forcing.
Wind variability in a coastal area (Alfacs Bay, Ebro River delta)
Authors: Cerralbo P. , Grifoll M. , Moré J. , Bravo M. , Sairouní Afif A. , Espino M.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Wind spatial heterogeneity in a coastal area (Alfacs Bay, northwestern Mediterranean Sea) is described using a set of observations and modelling results. Observations in three meteorological stations (during 2012–2013) along the coastline reveal that wind from the N–NW (strongest winds in the region) appears to be affected by the local orography promoting high wind variability on relatively short spatial scales (of the order of few kilometres). On the other hand, sea breezes in late spring and summer also show noticeable differences in both spatial distribution and duration. The importance of wind models' spatial resolution is also assessed, revealing that high resolution (= 3 km) substantially improves the results in comparison to coarse resolution (9 km). The highest-resolution model tested (400 m) also presents noticeable improvements during some events, showing spatial variability not revealed by coarser models. All these models are used to describe and understand the spatial variability of the typical wind events in the region. The results presented in this contribution should be considered on hydrodynamic, ecological and risk management investigations in coastal areas with complex orography.
The GLOSS Delayed Mode Data Centre and the GLOSS Implementation Plan 2012
Authors: Bradshaw E. , Rickards L. , Holgate S. , Aarup T.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. The main component of the Global Sea Level Observing System (GLOSS) is the GLOSS Core Network (GCN) of 290 sea level stations. The present definition of the GCN (the definition is modified every few years) is called GLOSS10. In 2012 a new GLOSS implementation plan was developed to update technical standards for GLOSS tide gauge stations, as well as describing the basic terms and obligations for Member States participating in GLOSS. The British Oceanographic Data Centre (BODC) and the Permanent Service for Mean Sea Level (PSMSL) run the GLOSS Delayed Mode Data Centre jointly. It is responsible for assembling, quality controlling and distributing the "final" version of GLOSS sea level data sets and their supporting metadata, as well as carrying out data archaeology on historical analogue sea level records, preserving them in digital form. It also maintains the GLOSS Station Handbook and GLOSS website.
Wave-current induced erosion of cohesive riverbanks in northern Manitoba, Canada
Authors: Kimiaghalam N. , Clark S. , Ahmari H. , Hunt J.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. The field of cohesive soil erosion is still not fully understood, in large part due to the many soil parameters that affect cohesive soil erodibility. This study is focused on two channels, 2-Mile and 8-Mile channels in northern Manitoba, Canada, that were built to connect Lake Winnipeg with Playgreen Lake and Playgreen Lake with Kiskikittogisu Lake, respectively. The banks of the channels consist of clay rich soils and alluvial deposits of layered clay, silts and sands. The study of erosion at the sites is further complicated because the flow-induced erosion is combined with the effects of significant wave action due to the large fetch length on the adjacent lakes, particularly Lake Winnipeg that is the seventh largest lake in North America. The study included three main components: field measurements, laboratory experiments and numerical modelling. Field measurements consisted of soil sampling from the banks and bed of the channels, current measurements and water sampling. Grab soil samples were used to measure the essential physical and electrochemical properties of the riverbanks, and standard ASTM Shelby tube samples were used to estimate the critical shear stress and erodibility of the soil samples using an erosion measurement device (EMD). Water samples were taken to estimate the sediment concentration profile and also to monitor changes in sediment concentration along the channels over time. An Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP) was used to collect bathymetry and current data, and two water level gauges have been installed to record water levels at the entrance and outlet of the channels. The MIKE 21 NSW model was used to simulate waves using historical winds and measured bathymetry of the channels and lakes. Finally, results from the wave numerical model, laboratory tests and current measurement were used to estimate the effect of each component on erodibility of the cohesive banks.
Ratio of basin lag times for runoff and sediment yield processes recorded in various environments
Authors: Banasik K. , Hejduk A.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. River basin lag time (LAG), defined as the elapsed time between the occurrence of the centroids of the effective rainfall intensity hyetograph and the storm runoff hydrograph, is an important factor in determining the time to peak and the peak value of the instantaneous unit hydrograph (IUH). In the procedure of predicting a sedimentgraph (suspended sediment load as a function of time), the equivalent parameter is the lag time for the sediment yield (LAGs), which is defined as the elapsed time between the occurrence of the centroids of sediment production during a storm event and the observed sedimentgraph at the gauging station. Data of over 150 events recorded in 11 small river catchments (located in Poland, Germany, UK and USA) with a drainage area of 0.02 km2 to 82 km2 have been analysed to estimate the ratio of LAGs/LAG. The ratio, in majority of cases was smaller than 1, and decreased with increase of river basin slope. Special attention is given to the data collected in a small agricultural catchment and also during snowmelt periods, which is located in central Poland.
A micromechanical modelling approach for predicting particle dislodgement
Authors: Shih W. , Diplas P.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. In recent years, the impulse and energy concepts have been proposed as a means of improving the prediction of sediment particle entrainment. Because they account for temporal aspects of the applied hydrodynamic forces, impulse-based or energy-based approaches provide a better representation of a highly fluctuating phenomenon compared to the more traditional time-averaged Shields parameter or constant force magnitude-based model. In the present paper, we elaborate further on the simulation of particle migration by applying a theoretical model based on hydrodynamic pressure data. Three common movement scenarios and the dynamic critical drag force, allowed to vary during particle motion, are qualitatively discussed here. Also, the possible inaccuracy in entrainment prediction of three different models is addressed with reference to our simulation results. It is demonstrated that the multi-parcel impulse model has the best performance when compared to the single-parcel impulse and force magnitude-based models.
Tracking the origin and dispersion of contaminated sediments transported by rivers draining the Fukushima radioactive contaminant plume
Authors: Lepage H. , Evrard O. , Onda Y. , Chartin C. , Lefevre I. , Sophie A. , Bonte P.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. This study was conducted in several catchments draining the main Fukushima Dai-ichi Power Plant contaminant plume in Fukushima prefecture, Japan. We collected soils and sediment drape deposits (n = 128) and investigated the variation in 137Cs enrichment during five sampling campaigns, conducted every six months, which typically occurred after intense erosive events such as typhoons and snowmelt. We show that upstream contaminated soils are eroded during summer typhoons (June–October) before being exported during the spring snowmelt (March–April). However, this seasonal cycle of sediment dispersion is further complicated by the occurrence of dam releases that may discharge large amounts of contaminants to the coastal plains during the coming years.
Temporal and spatial responses of river discharge to tectonic and climatic perturbations: Choshui River, Taiwan, and Typhoon Mindulle (2004)
Authors: Milliman J. D. , Lee T. Y. , Huang J. C. , Kao S. J.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. One reason that small mountainous rivers discharge disproportionately large quantities of sediment to the coastal ocean is because they are particularly susceptible to short-term episodic events, such as earthquakes and floods. The impact of such events, both temporally and spatially, however, has seldom been monitored. Here we report on the results of probably the most thorough monitoring of a flood ever undertaken: the effect of Typhoon Mindulle (2–4 July 2004) on the character of the water transported by the Choshui River, central western Taiwan, during which 74 million tons of sediment were discharged to the adjacent Taiwan Strait. Results from a series of 113 water samples obtained between 2nd and 4th July from five stations along the middle and lower reaches the river indicate that more than half of the suspended sediment was generated in nearby mountains before the river reached its flood plain. While the concentration of dissolved solids remained more or less constant along the mainstem of the river, the composition changed considerably, reflecting the imprints of local geology. An order-of-magnitude downstream increase in NO3− concentrations reflects the rapid draining of the Tsaoling landslide lake on the Chingshui River, as the 1999 earthquake-generated landslide dam was breached.
A comparative study of the flux and fate of the Mississippi and Yangtze river sediments
Authors: Xu K. , Yang S. L.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Large rivers play a key role in delivering water and sediment into the global oceans. Large-river deltas and associated coastlines are important interfaces for material fluxes that have a global impact on marine processes. In this study, we compare water and sediment discharge from Mississippi and Yangtze rivers by assessing: (1) temporal variation under varying climatic and anthropogenic impacts, (2) delta response of the declining sediment discharge, and (3) deltaic lobe switching and Holocene sediment dispersal patterns on the adjacent continental shelves. Dam constructions have decreased both rivers’ sediment discharge significantly, leading to shoreline retreat along the coast. The sediment dispersal of the river-dominated Mississippi Delta is localized but for the tide-dominated Yangtze Delta is more diffuse and influenced by longshore currents. Sediment declines and relative sea level rises have led to coastal erosion, endangering the coasts of both rivers.
Recent changes in sediment redistribution in the upper parts of the fluvial system of European Russia: regional aspects
Authors: Yermolaev O. P. , Golosov V. N. , Kumani M. V. , Litvin L. F. , Rysin I. I. , Dvinskikh A. P.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Quantitative assessments of soil loss from cultivated land and sediment redistribution along pathways from cultivated fields to river channels have been undertaken using a range of different methods and techniques, including erosion models, detailed studies of sediment redistribution in representative catchments, monitoring of gully head retreat and evaluation of sediment deposition in ponds and small reservoirs. Most of the sediment eroded from arable land is deposited between the lower portions of the cultivated slopes and the river channels. Less than 15% of the eroded sediment is delivered to the river channels. Sediment redistribution rates in the upper parts of the fluvial system have declined during the last 25 years in both the western and eastern parts of the Russian Plain, because of a major reduction of surface runoff during snowmelt and a reduction of the area of arable land in some parts of the study area.
Changing trends of rainfall and sediment fluxes in the Kinta River catchment, Malaysia
Authors: Ismail W. R. , Hashim M.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. The Kinta River, draining an area of 2566 km2, originates in the Korbu Mountain in Perak, Malaysia, and flows through heterogeneous, mixed land uses ranging from extensive forests to mining, rubber and oil palm plantations, and urban development. A land use change analysis of the Kinta River catchment was carried out together with assessment of the long-term trend in rainfall and sediment fluxes. The Mann-Kendall test was used to examine and assess the long-term trends in rainfall and its relationship with the sediment discharge trend. The land use analysis shows that forests, water bodies and mining land declined whilst built and agricultural land use increased significantly. This has influenced the sediment flux of the catchment. However, most of the rainfall stations and river gauging stations are experiencing an increasing trends, except at Kinta river at Tg. Rambutan. Sediment flux shows a net erosion for the period from 1961 to 1969. The total annual sediment discharge in the Kinta River catchment was low with an average rate of 1,757 t/km2/year. From 1970 to 1985, the annual sediment yield rose to an average rate of 4062 t/km2/year. Afterwards, from 1986 to 1993, the total annual sediment discharge decreased to an average rate of 1,306 t/km2/year and increased back during the period 1994 to 2000 to 2109 t/km2/year. From 2001 to 2006 the average sediment flux rate declined to 865 t/km2/year. The decline was almost 80% from the 1970s. High sediment flux in the early 1970s is partly associated with reduced tin mining activities in the area. This decreasing trend in sediment delivery leaving the Kinta River catchment is expected to continue dropping in the future.
Tidal modulated flow and sediment flux through Wax Lake Delta distributary channels: Implications for delta development
Authors: Hanegan K. , Georgiou I.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. In this study, a Delft3D model of the Wax Lake Delta was developed to simulate flow and sediment flux through delta distributary channels. The model was calibrated for tidal constituents as well as velocity and sediment concentration across channel transects. The calibrated model was then used to simulate full spring–neap tidal cycles under constant low flow upstream boundary conditions, with grain size variation in suspended load represented using two sediment fractions. Flow and sediment flux results through distributary channel cross-sections were examined for spatial and temporal variability with the goal of characterizing the role of tides in sediment reworking and delta development. The Wax Lake Delta has prograded through channel extension, river mouth bar deposition, and channel bifurcation. Here we show that tidal modulation of currents influences suspended sand transport, and spatial acceleration through distributary channels at low tides is sufficient to suspend sand in distal reaches during lower flows. The basinward-increasing transport capacity in distributary channels indicates that erosive channel extension could be an important process, even during non-flood events.
Sedimentary signature of Hurricane Isaac in a Taxodium swamp on the western margin of Lake Pontchartrain, Louisiana, USA
Authors: Liu K.-B. , McCloskey T. A. , Ortego S. , Maiti K.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Compositional and geochemical profiles were established for a 59-cm sediment core extracted from a small pothole pond in a Taxodium (bald cypress) swamp 830 m inland from Lake Pontchartrain in south-eastern Louisiana, USA. The core consists of a top organic unit (peat to clayey peat) from 0–29 cm above a bottom clay unit at 30–59 cm depth. Four distinct zones, marked by gradual changes in organic content and elemental concentrations, occur in the clay unit. These changes probably reflect two cycles of slowly changing water depths. Hurricane Isaac’s signature, a brown clay band at 3–5 cm, is identified based on the stratigraphic and compositional correspondence with the storm’s event layer, documented from nearby sites. Sedimentary and geochemical similarities between this material and clastic bands at 15–19 and 23–25 cm identify those two intervals as potentially representing earlier floods. The Cl/Br ratio presents a potentially useful method for distinguishing fluvial and marine flooding.
Sediment capture in flood plains of the Mississippi River: A case study in Cat Island National Wildlife Refuge, Louisiana
Authors: Smith M. , Bentley S. J.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. To plan restoration of the Mississippi River Delta, it is imperative to know how much sediment the Mississippi River currently provides. Recent research has demonstrated that between Tarbert Landing and St Francisville on the Mississippi, as much as 67 million metric tons (Mt) per year is lost from river transport, of which ~16 Mt is muddy suspended sediment. So where does this sediment go? Two pathways for loss have been proposed: riverbed storage, and overbank deposition in regions that lack manmade levées. Cat Island National Wildlife Refuge, on the unleveed Mississippi River east bank near St Francisville, Louisiana, consists of undisturbed bottomland forest that is inundated most years by river flooding. To determine fluvial sediment accumulation rates (SAR) from flooding, pushcores 40–50 cm long were collected then dated by Pb-210 and Cs-137 geochronology. Preliminary data suggests that muddy sediment accumulation is 10–13% of muddy suspended sediment lost from river transport along this river reach.
Predicting ephemeral gully erosion with RUSLER and EphGEE
Authors: Dabney S. M. , Vieira D. A. N. , Yoder D. C.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Ephemeral gully erosion is not included in predictions made with the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation, version 2 (RUSLE2). A new distributed application called RUSLER (RUSLE2-Raster) predicts distributed soil loss and its output can be linked with the new Ephemeral Gully Erosion Estimator (EphGEE). These models were applied to a 6.3 ha research watershed near Treynor, Iowa, USA, where runoff and sediment yield were measured from 1975 to 1991. Using a 3-m raster DEM, results indicate that ephemeral gully erosion contributed about one-third of the amount of sheet and rill erosion, and that considerable deposition of sediment originating from both sources occurred within the grassed waterway. For ambient conditions, predicted annual average watershed sediment yield was 17.5 Mg ha−1 year−1, 20% greater than the measured value of 14.6 Mg ha−1 year−1.
Impact of precipitation and runoff on ephemeral gully development in cultivated croplands
Authors: Karimov V. , Sheshukov A. , Barnes P.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. The goal of this study was to estimate the impacts of precipitation and runoff on ephemeral gully development. A field experiment was conducted during the summer of 2013 on an agricultural field near the city of McPherson in central Kansas, USA. Precipitation data were collected, and the gully headcut was measured every three to four weeks. The rainfall excess was calculated with the WEPP model, whereas headcut soil losses were estimated based on measurements. Headcut measurements showed that there was no gully development during rainfall events of short duration of high or low intensity. However, headcut propagation was clearly detected under saturated soil conditions for a three-day storm. This field study provides data to model the mechanics of ephemeral gully development. Further measurements of precipi-tation and gully morphology are needed for statistical analysis of gully erosion and the associated soil losses.
aS1-Casein Lineage Assessed by RFLP in the Endangered Goat Breed “Retinta Extremeña”
Authors: Fernández-García José L. , Vivas Cedillo María P.
Published: March 2015

The Retinta Extremeña goat is a well-adapted breed to "Dehesa" environment. Traditionally their raw milk is used to make artisan cheese. However, crosses with specialized breeds are occurring since the eighties, this goat breed has been declared of special protection by the Spanish Agriculture Ministry (R.D. 1682/1997 and R.D. 229/2008). Genetic studies about casein variants have been mainly performed on Spanish goats of high milk yields because the caseins are a relevant fraction of milk. But recent studies claimed to study the caseins in all breeds, including threatened goat breeds to decide about its conservation value. This study was focused on the aS1-casein in the endangered “Retinta Extremeña” goat for the first time to enhance its conservation interest. Genomic DNA of seventy five pureblood goats was studied. A PCR-RFLP assay was designed to find a BmyI target that distinguishing A versus B2 lineages (including recombinant variant M and B1, respectively) of the aS1-casein locus. The allelic frequency of variants related to A lineage (CAG triplet) was 14.0% similar to other southwestern Spanish breeds. It is suggested that individuals or families carrying A lineage should be more studied to detect less allergen null alleles while the opposite allele pools of the B2 lineages should be tested for alleles associated to unsaturated fatty acid content. Therefore, the priorities for conservation plans of animal genetic resources as threatened goat breeds; more investigation is claimed in the aim to study for proved useful alleles of certain genes, as casein variants.
Copper Earrings in La Araucanía: Earliest Evidence of Metal Usage in Southern Chile
Authors: Mera C. Rodrigo , Mille Benoit , Munita Doina , Figueroa Valentina
Published: March 2015

We report on the archaeometallurgical analysis of eight pieces of copper recovered from the Villa JMC-1 cemetery (Pitren Complex, Early Ceramic period) in the locality of Labranza, La Araucania. These artifacts provide the earliest evidence of metal use in southern Chile. They are also the southernmost prehispanic metal artifacts ever found in South America. These contextualized results complement those obtained from the analysis of an earring from Kilómetro 0—Enlace Temuco (El Vergel Complex, Late Ceramic period), an archaeological residential site dated to almost 500 years after the Labranza cemetery. Particle Induced X-ray Emission, X-ray radiography, and stereomicroscopy analyses allow us to offer an elemental characterization of the pieces, an assessment of their manufacturing process, and a comparison between the metals and alloys discovered. We follow with a discussion of proposals regarding cultural relations in the Araucania region during different time periods.
We Need Better Chronologies: Progress in Getting them
Authors: Cowgill George L.
Published: March 2015

Archaeologists have long celebrated their unique ability to deal with the long term. But we are increasingly recognizing that we can and must also understand more rapid events. They are critical for many of the questions we now consider most interesting, such as distinguishing between changes that unfolded gradually and those that happened suddenly. In considering interactions among regions, we need something better than cross-dating on the basis of resemblances in material objects. That is especially so when we would like to know where something first developed and the tempo of its spread to other regions. As one particularly clear example of the beneficial effects of finer chronologies, Robert Santley (in Sanders et al. 1979:65-73) showed how shorter phases can drastically alter our picture of the ebb and flow of settlement history in a region. When Basin of Mexico sites in the Cuauhtitlan region are dated only in broad terms to the Middle and Late Formative periods, a rather placid picture of settlement change emerges.