bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Biological Evaluation of Six Gene Set Analysis Methods for Identification of Differentially Expressed Pathways in Microarray Data
Authors: Dinu Irina , Liu Qi , Potter John D. , Adewale Adeniyi J. , Jhangri Gian S. , Mueller Thomas , Einecke Gunilla , Famulsky Konrad , Halloran Philip , Yasui Yutaka
Published: October 2017

Gene-set analysis of microarray data evaluates biological pathways, or gene sets, for their differential expression by a phenotype of interest. In contrast to the analysis of individual genes, gene-set analysis utilizes existing biological knowledge of genes and their pathways in assessing differential expression. This paper evaluates the biological performance of five gene-set analysis methods testing “self-contained null hypotheses” via subject sampling, along with the most popular gene-set analysis method, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA). We use three real microarray analyses in which differentially expressed gene sets are predictable biologically from the phenotype. Two types of gene sets are considered for this empirical evaluation: one type contains “truly positive” sets that should be identified as differentially expressed; and the other type contains “truly negative” sets that should not be identified as differentially expressed. Our evaluation suggests advantages of SAM-GS, Global, and ANCOVA Global methods over GSEA and the other two methods.
Les données actuelles et leurs conséquences sur la pratique en microbiologie et hygiène des aliments
Authors: Catsaras Marc
Published: October 2017

Pour la microbiologie et l’hygiène des aliments, une “nouvelle approche” est devenue capitale. La question de l’analyse des risques et de leur gestion est discutée. La microbiologie des aliments est caractérisée aujourd’hui et demain. Le rôle des organismes internationaux, européens et nationaux est précisé.
Bien-être des veaux de boucherie : problèmes et solutions
Authors: Veissier Isabelle , Lensink Joop
Published: October 2017

Une des productions les plus critiquées à l’heure actuelle est celle des veaux de boucherie. Ces animaux sont élevés dans des milieux jugés artificiels par beaucoup d’entre nous. De fait, l’isolement social, le manque de place, l’absence de tétée et l’absence d’aliments solides sont autant de facteurs qui affectent le bien-être des veaux. De plus, le soigneur, par ses gestes quotidiens auprès des animaux, détermine une part importante de la réactivité des veaux lors de manipulations. Des améliorations des conditions de vie des veaux de boucherie semblent possible. L’élargissement des cases individuelles, le logement en groupes stables, la complémentation avec un aliment contenant des fibres, la mise à disposition d’objets à téter peuvent être proposés. Certaines de ces mesures sont d’ailleurs rendues obligatoires par la réglementation.
Quinze années de suivi bactériologique en restauration collective sociale
Authors: Danjou Jean-Paul , Catsaras Marc
Published: October 2017

Pratiquée depuis 1985 en restauration collective sociale (restaurants scolaires), la méthode NORECOIN (normalisée, répétitive, codée et intégrée) a été appliquée à 128 restaurants au cours de la période de 1997-1999 ; l’échantillon est toujours le même depuis le début. Les résultats sont toujours excellents, dans la zone supérieure de la notation : 2,5 à 3 et sont même meilleurs que dans les périodes précédentes : les notes sont en effet : 2,71 à 2,99.
Avaliação toxicológica do óleo essencial de Cymbopogon citratus (DC) stapf (Capim-Marinho) em camundongos e ratos
Authors: Lima Anderson Bentes de , Silva Pedro Iuri Castro da , Bastos Junior José da Costa , Cardoso Alessandra Souto , Silva Luciana Mota , Silva Renata Cunha , Barros Carlos Augusto Lima , Freitas Jofre Jacob da Silva
Published: October 2017

Este trabalho teve como objetivo a avaliação da toxicidade aguda e subcrônica do óleo essencial de Cymbopogon citratus (DC) stapf através da determinação da DL50 em camundongos e a análise dos parâmetros bioquímicos e hematológicos em ratos. A planta é utilizada na medicina popular da região amazônica em diversas doenças. O óleo essencial desta planta apresenta como constituinte principal o citral, (com propriedades ansiolítica, hipnótica, anticonvulsivante e fungicida). A DL50 do óleo essencial foi de 3000±91,32 mg/kg, sendo que este não alterou de maneira significativa os parâmetros bioquímicos e hematológicos em relação ao grupo controle. O valor da DL50 e os resultados observados nos parâmetros hematológicos e bioquímicos sugerem que o óleo essencial de Cymbopogon citratus apresenta uma toxicidade baixa.
Modelo artesanal de treinamento para acesso vascular ecoguiado em adaptação de gel balístico
Authors: Rocha Camylla Rodrigues de Oliveira , Rocha Ingrid Rodrigues de Oliveira , Bengtson Karolynie Lessa , Oliveira Monna Hessen Banna de , Feitosa Junior Denilson José Silva , Reis José Maciel Caldas dos
Published: October 2017

Objetivo: Desenvolver um modelo de baixo custo, com fins educacionais, para treinamento de punção ecoguiada. Método: O fantasma é feito com uma adaptação de gel balístico utilizando água, gelatina e glicerina. Para os vasos sanguíneos, são utilizados tubos de látex (drenos Penrose) para veias e politetrafluoretileno (PTFE) para artérias. Estes são preenchidos com gel incolor e fixados no manequim. Por fim, deve-se refrigerar o molde já com a mistura, por 6 horas.Resultados: No modelo proposto foi possível treinar habilidades de punção ecoguiada. As imagens obtidas utilizando o fantasma são de alta qualidade quando comparado com a anatomia sonográfica normal. Conclusão: Este modelo é uma alternativa didática e viável economicamente para a realização de treinamento de punção ecoguiada.
Perfil dos idosos cadastrados no HIPERDIA em uma Unidade Saúde da Família do município de Belém-PA
Authors: Soares Marina Crespo , Franco Santino Carvalho , Fernandez Daniel Bernardo da Costa , Tavares Lívia Simone Alves
Published: October 2017

Objetivo: Caracterizar o perfil epidemiológico, incluindo aspectos demográficos, socioeconômicos e antropométricos, dos pacientes idosos cadastrados no HIPERDIA da Unidade Saúde da Família Radional II, a fim de contribuir para o estabelecimento de propostas adequadas de prevenção.Método: O estudo epidemiológico é caracterizado por uma pesquisa descritiva, observacional e transversal, de caráter quantitativo, cujo tamanho amostral foi de 182 pacientes cadastrados no HIPERDIA, sendo utilizado, para fins de coleta de dados, um questionário semi-estruturado. Resultados: Dos 182 idosos estudados, 116 possuíam apenas HAS, 12 apenas DIA e 54 HAS e DIA associados. A maior prevalência ocorreu no sexo feminino (71,4%), na faixa etária de 66 a 70 anos de idade (25,3%), em indivíduos não brancos (78,0%) e em indivíduos que possuíam renda de 2 a 4 salários mínimos (53,3%) e ensino fundamental incompleto (75,8%). Verificou-se que 68,7% dos idosos apresentavam excesso de peso, 72,5% não praticavam qualquer atividade física, 77,5% apresentavam circunferência abdominal patológica e 71,4% dos hipertensos possuíam pressão arterial (PA) elevada (PA Sistólica > 139 mmHg ou PA Diastólica > 89 mmHg). Considerações finais: A execução desse estudo possibilitou um maior conhecimento do perfil dos idosos cadastrados no HIPERDIA, o que é fundamental para o fortalecimento de medidas de prevenção desses agravos. Investir na prevenção é decisivo não só para garantir a qualidade de vida como, também, para evitar a hospitalização e os consequentes gastos.
Trascutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) de baixa frequência no processo de cicatrização cutânea em ratos
Authors: Silva Sâmela Miranda da , Lima Patrícia Rodrigues Costa de , Cabral Iasmin Pereira , Oliveira Daniella Meneses Seawright , Silveira Tiago Santos , Avila Paulo Eduardo Santos Avila
Published: October 2017

Verificar o efeito da TENS no processo de cicatrização cutânea. Estudo transversal, experimental, prospectivo e com intervenção em ratos da linhagem Wistar. Mensurações de contração da ferida e amostras de tegumento foram retiradas e analisadas histologicamente, adotando-se a análise do número de mastócitos e densidade vascular. Análise estatística revelou que a área da ferida reduziu no grupo experimental em comparação com o grupo controle. Na contagem de mastócitos e densidade vascular foi verificada uma redução para as variáveis no grupo experimental em relação ao grupo controle. O processo de cicatrização foi mais acelerado e eficiente no grupo de animais tratados.
Modelos experimentais alternativos para o treinamento de incisões cirúrgicas
Authors: Brito Ana Paula Santos Oliveira , Mainardi Carolina Ribeiro , Silva Wescley Miguel Pereira da , Brito Marcus Vinicius Henriques
Published: October 2017

Objetivo: desenvolver curso com modelos experimentais alternativos no treinamento de incisões cirúrgicas para estudantes de Medicina. Método: participaram 10 homens e 10 mulheres, alunos do 2º e 3º anos do curso de Medicina, sem treinamento cirúrgico prévio. Após aula instrutiva sobre incisões cirúrgicas executaram treinamento em quatro modelos alternativos: presunto com queijo; banana; laranja e toucinho. Em cada modelo foram executadas incisões lineares, circulares, quadradas e elípticas. Foram avaliados: capacidade de realizar uma incisão completa ou incompleta, número de lesões nos frutos quando a casca era seccionada completamente ou com profundidade exagerada, e o tempo necessário para realizar a tarefa. Os alunos foram avaliados com os mesmos exercícios em dois tempos, com intervalo de uma semana, após terem treinado em casa por aproximadamente 15 minutos por dia. Os dados da avaliação foram anotados em ficha padrão e comparados estatisticamente pelos testes de Friedman e teste T, sendo os dados de cada estudante controle dele próprio. Resultados: Quanto à evolução no tempo das incisões, observou-se queda não significante na média, de 29,8 seg. para 28,0 seg. (p=0,1175), ocorrendo o mesmo com o número de lesões que baixou de 9,95 para 8,70 (p=0,8231). Quando analisadas as incisões completas, houve aumento estatisticamente significante nas médias, que passaram de 12,55 para 17,85 (p=0,0008), enquanto as incompletas caíram 14,35 para 9,45 (p=0,0017). Conclusão: O treinamento de incisões com modelos alternativos mostrou-se eficiente no ganho de cognição e habilidades em todos os parâmetros analisados, apresentando ganho estatisticamente significante na precisão e destreza em realizar as incisões.
Near-real-time processing of a ceilometer network assisted with sun-photometer data: monitoring a dust outbreak over the Iberian Peninsula
Authors: Cazorla Alberto , Casquero-Vera Juan Andrés , Román Roberto , Guerrero-Rascado Juan Luis , Toledano Carlos , Cachorro Victoria E. , Orza José Antonio G. , Cancillo María Luisa , Serrano Antonio , Titos Gloria , Pandolfi Marco , Alastuey Andres , Hanrieder Natalie , Alados-Arboledas Lucas
Published: October 2017

Abstract. The interest in the use of ceilometers for optical aerosol characterization has increased in the last few years. They operate continuously almost unattended and are also much less expensive than lidars; hence, they can be distributed in dense networks over large areas. However, due to the low signal-to-noise ratio it is not always possible to obtain particle backscatter coefficient profiles, and the vast number of data generated require an automated and unsupervised method that ensures the quality of the profiles inversions. In this work we describe a method that uses aerosol optical depth (AOD) measurements from the AERONET network that it is applied for the calibration and automated quality assurance of inversion of ceilometer profiles. The method is compared with independent inversions obtained by co-located multiwavelength lidar measurements. A difference smaller than 15 % in backscatter is found between both instruments. This method is continuously and automatically applied to the Iberian Ceilometer Network (ICENET) and a case example during an unusually intense dust outbreak affecting the Iberian Peninsula between 20 and 24 February 2016 is shown. Results reveal that it is possible to obtain quantitative optical aerosol properties (particle backscatter coefficient) and discriminate the quality of these retrievals with ceilometers over large areas. This information has a great potential for alert systems and model assimilation and evaluation.
Re-evaluating black carbon in the Himalayas and the Tibetan Plateau: concentrations and deposition
Authors: Li Chaoliu , Yan Fangping , Kang Shichang , Chen Pengfei , Han Xiaowen , Hu Zhaofu , Zhang Guoshuai , Hong Ye , Gao Shaopeng , Qu Bin , Zhu Zhejing , Li Jiwei , Chen Bing , Sillanpää Mika
Published: October 2017

Abstract. Black carbon (BC) is the second most important warming component in the atmosphere after CO2. The BC in the Himalayas and the Tibetan Plateau (HTP) has influenced the Indian monsoon and accelerated the retreat of glaciers, resulting in serious consequences for billions of Asian residents. Although a number of related studies have been conducted in this region, the BC concentrations and deposition rates remain poorly constrained. Because of the presence of arid environments and the potential influence of carbonates in mineral dust (MD), the reported BC concentrations in the HTP are overestimated. In addition, large discrepancies have been reported among the BC deposition derived from lake cores, ice cores, snow pits and models. Therefore, the actual BC concentration and deposition values in this sensitive region must be determined. A comparison between the BC concentrations in acid (HCl)-treated and untreated total suspected particle samples from the HTP showed that the BC concentrations previously reported for the Nam Co station (central part of the HTP) and the Everest station (northern slope of the central Himalayas) were overestimated by approximately 52 ± 35 and 39 ± 24 %, respectively, because of the influence of carbonates in MD. Additionally, the organic carbon (OC) levels were overestimated by approximately 22 ± 10 and 22 ± 12 % for the same reason. Based on previously reported values from the study region, we propose that the actual BC concentrations at the Nam Co and Everest stations are 61 and 154 ng m−3, respectively. Furthermore, a comprehensive comparison of the BC deposition rates obtained via different methods indicated that the deposition of BC in HTP lake cores was mainly related to river sediment transport from the lake basin as a result of climate change (e.g., increases in temperature and precipitation) and that relatively little BC deposition occurred via atmospheric deposition. Therefore, previously reported BC deposition rates from lake cores overestimated the atmospheric deposition of BC in the HTP. Correspondingly, BC deposition derived from snow pits and ice cores agreed well with that derived from models, implying that the BC depositions of these two methods reflect the actual values in the HTP. Therefore, based on reported values from snow pits and ice cores, we propose that the BC deposition in the HTP is 17. 9 ± 5. 3 mg m−2 a−1, with higher and lower values appearing along the fringes and central areas of the HTP, respectively. These adjusted BC concentrations and deposition values in the HTP are critical for performing accurate evaluations of other BC factors, such as atmospheric distribution, radiative forcing and chemical transport in the HTP.
Impacts of stratospheric sulfate geoengineering on tropospheric ozone
Authors: Xia Lili , Nowack Peer J. , Tilmes Simone , Robock Alan
Published: October 2017

Abstract. A range of solar radiation management (SRM) techniques has been proposed to counter anthropogenic climate change. Here, we examine the potential effects of stratospheric sulfate aerosols and solar insolation reduction on tropospheric ozone and ozone at Earth's surface. Ozone is a key air pollutant, which can produce respiratory diseases and crop damage. Using a version of the Community Earth System Model from the National Center for Atmospheric Research that includes comprehensive tropospheric and stratospheric chemistry, we model both stratospheric sulfur injection and solar irradiance reduction schemes, with the aim of achieving equal levels of surface cooling relative to the Representative Concentration Pathway 6.0 scenario. This allows us to compare the impacts of sulfate aerosols and solar dimming on atmospheric ozone concentrations. Despite nearly identical global mean surface temperatures for the two SRM approaches, solar insolation reduction increases global average surface ozone concentrations, while sulfate injection decreases it. A fundamental difference between the two geoengineering schemes is the importance of heterogeneous reactions in the photochemical ozone balance with larger stratospheric sulfate abundance, resulting in increased ozone depletion in mid- and high latitudes. This reduces the net transport of stratospheric ozone into the troposphere and thus is a key driver of the overall decrease in surface ozone. At the same time, the change in stratospheric ozone alters the tropospheric photochemical environment due to enhanced ultraviolet radiation. A shared factor among both SRM scenarios is decreased chemical ozone loss due to reduced tropospheric humidity. Under insolation reduction, this is the dominant factor giving rise to the global surface ozone increase. Regionally, both surface ozone increases and decreases are found for both scenarios; that is, SRM would affect regions of the world differently in terms of air pollution. In conclusion, surface ozone and tropospheric chemistry would likely be affected by SRM, but the overall effect is strongly dependent on the SRM scheme. Due to the health and economic impacts of surface ozone, all these impacts should be taken into account in evaluations of possible consequences of SRM.
Particulate pollutants in the Brazilian city of São Paulo: 1-year investigation for the chemical composition and source apportionment
Authors: Pereira Guilherme Martins , Teinilä Kimmo , Custódio Danilo , Gomes Santos Aldenor , Xian Huang , Hillamo Risto , Alves Célia A. , Bittencourt de Andrade Jailson , Olímpio da Rocha Gisele , Kumar Prashant , Balasubramanian Rajasekhar , Andrade Maria de Fátima , de Castro Vasconcellos Pérola
Published: October 2017

Abstract. São Paulo in Brazil has relatively relaxed regulations for ambient air pollution standards and often experiences high air pollution levels due to emissions of particulate pollutants from local sources and long-range transport of air masses impacted by biomass burning. In order to evaluate the sources of particulate air pollution and related health risks, a year-round sampling was done at the University of São Paulo campus (20 m a.g.l.), a green area near an important expressway. The sampling was performed for PM2. 5 ( ≤ 2. 5 µm) and PM10 ( ≤  10 µm) in 2014 through intensive (everyday sampling in wintertime) and extensive campaigns (once a week for the whole year) with 24 h of sampling. This year was characterized by having lower average precipitation compared to meteorological data, and high-pollution episodes were observed all year round, with a significant increase in pollution level in the intensive campaign, which was performed during wintertime. Different chemical constituents, such as carbonaceous species, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and derivatives, water-soluble ions, and biomass burning tracers were identified in order to evaluate health risks and to apportion sources. The species such as PAHs, inorganic and organic ions, and monosaccharides were determined using chromatographic techniques and carbonaceous species using thermal-optical analysis. Trace elements were determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The risks associated with particulate matter exposure based on PAH concentrations were also assessed, along with indexes such as the benzo[a]pyrene equivalent (BaPE) and lung cancer risk (LCR). High BaPE and LCR were observed in most of the samples, rising to critical values in the wintertime. Also, biomass burning tracers and PAHs were higher in this season, while secondarily formed ions presented low variation throughout the year. Meanwhile, vehicular tracer species were also higher in the intensive campaign, suggesting the influence of lower dispersion conditions in that period. Source apportionment was performed using positive matrix factorization (PMF), which indicated five different factors: road dust, industrial emissions, vehicular exhaust, biomass burning and secondary processes. The results highlighted the contribution of vehicular emissions and the significant input from biomass combustion in wintertime, suggesting that most of the particulate matter is due to local sources, in addition to the influence of pre-harvest sugarcane burning.
Different trends between extreme and median surface aerosol extinction coefficients over China inferred from quality controlled visibility data
Authors: Li Jing , Li Chengcai , Zhao Chunsheng
Published: October 2017

Abstract. Although the temporal changes of aerosol properties have been widely investigated, the majority focused on the averaged condition without much emphasis on the extremes. However, the latter can be more important in terms of human health and climate change. This study uses a previously validated, quality-controlled visibility dataset to investigate the long-term trends of extreme surface aerosol extinction coefficient (AEC) over China, and compare them with the median trends. Two methods are used to independently evaluate the trends, which arrive at consistent results. The sign of extreme and median trends are generally coherent, whereas their magnitudes show distinct spatial and temporal differences. In the 1980s, an overall positive trend is found throughout China with the extreme trend exceeding the mean trend, except for Northwest China and the North China Plain. In the 1990s, AEC over Northeast and Northwest China starts to decline while the rest of the country still exhibits an increase. The extreme trends continue to dominate in the south while it yields to the mean trend in the north. After year 2000, the extreme trend becomes weaker than the mean trend overall in terms of both the magnitude and significance level. The annual trend can be primarily attributed to winter and fall trends. The results suggest that the decadal changes of pollution in China may be governed by different mechanisms. Synoptic conditions that often result in extreme air quality changes might dominate in the 1980s, whereas emission increase might be the main factor for the 2000s.
Decadal evolution of ship emissions in China from 2004 to 2013 by using an integrated AIS-based approach and projection to 2040
Authors: Li Cheng , Borken-Kleefeld Jens , Zheng Junyu , Yuan Zibing , Ou Jiamin , Li Yue , Wang Yanlong , Xu Yuanqian
Published: October 2017

Abstract. Ship emissions contribute significantly to air pollution and pose health risks to residents of coastal areas in China, but the current accounting remains incomplete and coarse due to data availability and inaccuracy in estimation method. In this study, an Automatic Identification System (AIS)-based integrated approach was developed to address this problem. This approach utilized detailed information from AIS and cargo turnover and the number of vessels calling information, thereby capable of quantifying sectoral contributions by fuel types and emissions from ports, rivers, coastal and over-the-horizon ship traffic. Based upon the established methodology, ship emissions in China from 2004 to 2013 were estimated, and those to 2040 in every five year interval under different control scenarios were projected. Results showed that for the area within 200 nautical miles (Nm) of the Chinese coast, SO2, NOx, CO, PM10, PM2.5, and hydrocarbon (HC) emissions in 2013 were 1010, 1443, 118, 107, 87 and 67 kt/yr, respectively, which doubled over these ten years. Ship source contributed ~ 10 % to the total SO2 and NOx emissions in the coastal provinces of China. Emissions from the proposed Domestic Emission Control Areas (DECAs) within 12 Nm constituted approximately 40 % of the all ship emissions along the Chinese coast, and this percentage would double when the scope is extended to 100 Nm. Ship emissions in ports accounted for about one quarter of the total emissions within 200 Nm, within which nearly 80 % of the emissions were concentrated in the top ten busiest ports of China. SO2 emissions could be reduced by 80 % in 2020 under 0.5 % global sulfur cap policy. In comparison, a similar reduction of NOx emissions would require significant technological change and would likely take several decades. This study provides solid scientific support for ship emissions control policy-making in China. It is suggested to investigate and monitor the emissions from the shipping sector in more detail in the future.
Deriving the slit functions from OMI solar observations and its implications for ozone-profile retrieval
Authors: Sun Kang , Liu Xiong , Huang Guanyu , González Abad Gonzalo , Cai Zhaonan , Chance Kelly , Yang Kai
Published: October 2017

Abstract. The Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) has been successfully measuring the Earth's atmospheric composition since 2004, but the on-orbit behavior of its slit functions has not been thoroughly characterized. Preflight measurements of slit functions have been used as a static input in many OMI retrieval algorithms. This study derives on-orbit slit functions from the OMI irradiance spectra assuming various function forms, including standard and super-Gaussian functions and a stretch to the preflight slit functions. The on-orbit slit functions in the UV bands show U-shaped cross-track dependences that cannot be fully represented by the preflight ones. The full widths at half maximum (FWHM) of the stretched preflight slit functions for detector pixels at large viewing angles are up to 30 % larger than the nadir pixels for the UV1 band, 5 % larger for the UV2 band, and practically flat in the VIS band. Nonetheless, the on-orbit changes of OMI slit functions are found to be insignificant over time after accounting for the solar activity, despite of the decaying of detectors and the occurrence of OMI row anomaly. Applying the derived on-orbit slit functions to ozone-profile retrieval shows substantial improvements over the preflight slit functions based on comparisons with ozonesonde validations.
The Alberta Smoke Plume Observation Study
Authors: Anderson Kerry , Pankratz Al , Mooney Curtis , Fleetham Kelly
Published: October 2017

Abstract. A field project was conducted to observe and measure smoke plumes from wildland fires in Alberta. This study used hand-held inclinometer measurements and photos taken at lookout towers in the province. Observations of 222 plumes were collected from 21 lookout towers over a 6-year period from 2010 to 2015. Observers reported the equilibrium and maximum plume heights based on the plume's final levelling height and the maximum lofting height, respectively. Observations were tabulated at the end of each year and matched to reported fires. Fire sizes at assessment times and forest fuel types were reported by the province. Fire weather conditions were obtained from the Canadian Wildland Fire Information System (CWFIS). Assessed fire sizes were adjusted to the appropriate size at plume observation time using elliptical fire-growth projections. Though a logical method to collect plume observations in principle, many unanticipated issues were uncovered as the project developed. Instrument limitations and environmental conditions presented challenges to the investigators whereas human error and the subjectivity of observations affected data quality. Despite these problems, the data set showed that responses to fire behaviour conditions were consistent with the physical processes leading to plume rise. The Alberta Smoke Plume Observation Study data can be found on the BlueSky Canada data page (http://firesmoke.ca/data/) and the Canadian Wildland Fire Information System datamart (http://cwfis.cfs.nrcan.gc.ca/datamart).
A 14-year dataset of in situ glacier surface velocities for a tidewater and a land-terminating glacier in Livingston Island, Antarctica
Authors: Machío Francisco , Rodríguez-Cielos Ricardo , Navarro Francisco , Lapazaran Javier , Otero Jaime
Published: October 2017

Abstract. We present a 14-year record of in situ glacier surface velocities determined by repeated global navigation satellite system (GNSS) measurements in a dense network of 52 stakes distributed across two glaciers, Johnsons (tidewater) and Hurd (land-terminating), located on Livingston Island, South Shetland Islands, Antarctica. The measurements cover the time period 2000–2013 and were collected at the beginning and end of each austral summer season. A second-degree polynomial approximation is fitted to each stake position, which allows estimating the approximate positions and associated velocities at intermediate times. This dataset is useful as input data for numerical models of glacier dynamics or for the calibration and validation of remotely sensed velocities for a region where very scarce in situ glacier surface velocity measurements have been available so far. The link to the data repository is as follows: http://doi.pangaea.de/10.1594/PANGAEA.846791.
Improvements to the WRF-Chem 3.5.1 model for quasi-hemispheric simulations of aerosols and ozone in the Arctic
Authors: Marelle Louis , Raut Jean-Christophe , Law Kathy S. , Berg Larry K. , Fast Jerome D. , Easter Richard C. , Shrivastava Manish , Thomas Jennie L.
Published: October 2017

Abstract. In this study, the WRF-Chem regional model is updated to improve simulated short-lived pollutants (e.g., aerosols, ozone) in the Arctic. Specifically, we include in WRF-Chem 3.5.1 (with SAPRC-99 gas-phase chemistry and MOSAIC aerosols) (1) a correction to the sedimentation of aerosols, (2) dimethyl sulfide (DMS) oceanic emissions and gas-phase chemistry, (3) an improved representation of the dry deposition of trace gases over seasonal snow, and (4) an UV-albedo dependence on snow and ice cover for photolysis calculations. We also (5) correct the representation of surface temperatures over melting ice in the Noah Land Surface Model and (6) couple and further test the recent KF-CuP (Kain–Fritsch + Cumulus Potential) cumulus parameterization that includes the effect of cumulus clouds on aerosols and trace gases. The updated model is used to perform quasi-hemispheric simulations of aerosols and ozone, which are evaluated against surface measurements of black carbon (BC), sulfate, and ozone as well as airborne measurements of BC in the Arctic. The updated model shows significant improvements in terms of seasonal aerosol cycles at the surface and root mean square errors (RMSEs) for surface ozone, aerosols, and BC aloft, compared to the base version of the model and to previous large-scale evaluations of WRF-Chem in the Arctic. These improvements are mostly due to the inclusion of cumulus effects on aerosols and trace gases in KF-CuP (improved RMSE for surface BC and BC profiles, surface sulfate, and surface ozone), the improved surface temperatures over sea ice (surface ozone, BC, and sulfate), and the updated trace gas deposition and UV albedo over snow and ice (improved RMSE and correlation for surface ozone). DMS emissions and chemistry improve surface sulfate at all Arctic sites except Zeppelin, and correcting aerosol sedimentation has little influence on aerosols except in the upper troposphere.
Using isotopes to constrain water flux and age estimates in snow-influenced catchments using the STARR (Spatially distributed Tracer-Aided Rainfall–Runoff) model
Authors: Ala-aho Pertti , Tetzlaff Doerthe , McNamara James P. , Laudon Hjalmar , Soulsby Chris
Published: October 2017

Abstract. Tracer-aided hydrological models are increasingly used to reveal fundamentals of runoff generation processes and water travel times in catchments. Modelling studies integrating stable water isotopes as tracers are mostly based in temperate and warm climates, leaving catchments with strong snow influences underrepresented in the literature. Such catchments are challenging, as the isotopic tracer signals in water entering the catchments as snowmelt are typically distorted from incoming precipitation due to fractionation processes in seasonal snowpack. We used the Spatially distributed Tracer-Aided Rainfall–Runoff (STARR) model to simulate fluxes, storage, and mixing of water and tracers, as well as estimating water ages in three long-term experimental catchments with varying degrees of snow influence and contrasting landscape characteristics. In the context of northern catchments the sites have exceptionally long and rich data sets of hydrometric data and – most importantly – stable water isotopes for both rain and snow conditions. To adapt the STARR model for sites with strong snow influence, we used a novel parsimonious calculation scheme that takes into account the isotopic fractionation through snow sublimation and snowmelt. The modified STARR setup simulated the streamflows, isotope ratios, and snow pack dynamics quite well in all three catchments. From this, our simulations indicated contrasting median water ages and water age distributions between catchments brought about mainly by differences in topography and soil characteristics. However, the variable degree of snow influence in catchments also had a major influence on the stream hydrograph, storage dynamics, and water age distributions, which was captured by the model. Our study suggested that snow sublimation fractionation processes can be important to include in tracer-aided modelling for catchments with seasonal snowpack, while the influence of fractionation during snowmelt could not be unequivocally shown. Our work showed the utility of isotopes to provide a proof of concept for our modelling framework in snow-influenced catchments.
PHOTOGRAMMETRY AS A TOOL FOR CHRONOLOGICAL DATING OF FIRED BRICKS STRUCTURES IN GENOA AREA
Authors: Acacia S. , Babbetto R. , Casanova M. , Macchioni E. , Pittaluga D.
Published: October 2017

Abstract. The aim of this paper is to explore the applications of photogrammetry in the field of archaeology of architecture. Specifically, to test possible advantages in adopting this tool for undertaking brick measurements for chronological dating of fired bricks historic structures. Mensiochronology analysis is a direct and non-destructive method providing an absolute dating of stratigraphic units. It is based on direct inspection and survey of bricks. Depending on the accessibility of the surface being studied, mensiochronology is suitable for vertical structures of limited height or relies on the availability of scaffolding and lifting equipment. There are several advantages in applying photogrammetry to brick measurement, among them: the possibility to undertake measurements of every kind of surface; the reduction of on-site survey time; the opportunity to repeat measurements off-site; the possibility to increase the number of measured elements in subsequent phases and by different operators. To explore the application of photogrammetry for mensiochronology three case studies are analyzed, testing the effectiveness of this tool on buildings displaying diverse features (e.g. handmade and industrial bricks) and dating back to different periods.
STRATEGIES FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF BUILT HERITAGE LINKED TO MAINTENANCE AND MONITORING. CASE STUDY OF THE SAN ROQUE NEIGHBORHOOD, CUENCA, ECUADOR
Authors: Achig-Balarezo M. C. , Vázquez L. , Barsallo M. G. , Briones J. C. , Amaya J.
Published: October 2017

Abstract. The rehabilitation of heritage sites, as well as the implementation of monitoring and control strategies is fundamental for its conservation. In the case of Cuenca, a World Heritage City, a maintenance campaign in the traditional neighborhood of San Roque was carried out in 2014. The objective was to undertake maintenance actions on roofs and façades as well as on elements at risk. The campaign process was developed keeping in mind the cycle or phases of preventive conservation: anamnesis, diagnosis, therapy and control (ICOMOS, 2003). At the end of the maintenance campaign an impact assessment was undertaken and monitoring tools were handed out to the community in order to strengthen the citizen participation in the preservation of built heritage. The experience of the maintenance campaign unveiled a series of lessons that have been evaluated in the present investigation, being the main objective the strengthening of the processes of governance and documentation through the formulation of strategies inherent to the maintenance of heritage buildings. In this process it is shown that the participation of citizens is a strategic factor for the sustainable development of maintenance campaigns, which allow for the preservation of historical sites for future generations.
Low-cost, in-liquid measuring system using a novel compact oscillation circuit and quartz-crystal microbalances (QCMs) as a versatile biosensor platform
Authors: Beißner Stefan , Thies Jan-Wilhelm , Bechthold Christopher , Kuhn Philipp , Thürmann Bettina , Dübel Stefan , Dietzel Andreas
Published: October 2017

Abstract. Quartz-crystal microbalances (QCMs) are commercially available mass sensors which mainly consist of a quartz resonator that oscillates at a characteristic frequency, which shifts when mass changes due to surface binding of molecules. In addition to mass changes, the viscosity of gases or liquids in contact with the sensor also shifts the resonance but also influences the quality factor (Q-factor). Typical biosensor applications demand operation in liquid environments leading to viscous damping strongly lowering Q-factors. For obtaining reliable measurements in liquid environments, excellent resonator control and signal processing are essential but standard resonator circuits like the Pierce and Colpitts oscillator fail to establish stable resonances. Here we present a low-cost, compact and robust oscillator circuit comprising of state-of-the-art commercially available surface-mount technology components which stimulates the QCMs oscillation, while it also establishes a control loop regulating the applied voltage. Thereby an increased energy dissipation by strong viscous damping in liquid solutions can be compensated and oscillations are stabilized. The presented circuit is suitable to be used in compact biosensor systems using custom-made miniaturized QCMs in microfluidic environments. As a proof of concept we used this circuit in combination with a customized microfabricated QCM in a microfluidic environment to measure the concentration of C-reactive protein (CRP) in buffer (PBS) down to concentrations as low as 5 µg mL−1.
Wave propagation in the Lorenz-96 model
Authors: Van Kekem Dirk L. , Sterk Alef E.
Published: October 2017

Abstract. In this paper we study the spatiotemporal properties of waves in the Lorenz-96 model and their dependence on the dimension parameter n and the forcing parameter F. For F > 0 the first bifurcation is either a supercritical Hopf or a double-Hopf bifurcation and the periodic attractor born at these bifurcations represents a traveling wave. Its spatial wave number increases linearly with n, but its period tends to a finite limit as n → ∞. For F
The Arctic sea ice cover of 2016: A year of record low highs and higher than expected lows
Authors: Petty Alek A. , Stroeve Julienne C. , Holland Paul R. , Boisvert Linette N. , Bliss Angela C. , Kimura Noriaki , Meier Walter N.
Published: October 2017

Abstract. 2016 was an interesting year in the Arctic, with record low sea ice at the start of the year, but a summer (September) Arctic sea ice extent that was higher than expected by most seasonal forecasts. Here we explore the 2016 Arctic sea ice state in terms of its monthly sea ice cover, placing this in context of the sea ice conditions observed since 2000. We demonstrate the sensitivity of monthly Arctic sea ice extent and area estimates, in terms of their magnitude and annual rankings, to the ice concentration input data (using two widely used datasets) and to the methodology used to convert concentration to extent (daily or monthly extent calculations). We use estimates of sea ice area to analyse the relative 'compactness' of the Arctic sea ice cover, highlighting anomalously low compactness in the summer of 2016 which contributed to the higher than expected September ice extent. Two cyclones that entered the Arctic Ocean during August appear to have driven this low concentration/compactness ice cover, but were not sufficient to cause more widespread melt out and a new record low September ice extent. We use concentration budgets to explore the regions and processes (thermodynamics/dynamics) contributing to the monthly 2016 extent/area estimates highlighting, amongst other things, rapid ice intensification across the central eastern Arctic through September. Two different products show significant early melt onset across the Arctic Ocean in 2016, including record early melt onset in the North Atlantic sector of the Arctic. Our results also show record late 2016 freeze up in the Central Arctic, North Atlantic. and the Alaskan Arctic sector in particular, associated with strong sea surface temperature anomalies that appeared shortly after the 2016 minimum (October onwards). We explore the implications of this low summer ice compactness for seasonal forecasting, suggesting that sea ice area could be a more reliable metric to forecast in this more seasonal, 'New Arctic', sea ice regime.
Implementing Differentiated Instruction in EFL Remedial Classes: An Action Research
Authors: Siddiqui Ozma , Alghamdi Fatimah M. A.
Published: October 2017

Since English language teaching became a compulsory part of the curriculum in all institutes of higher education in Saudi Arabia, different syllabi and teaching methodologies have been experimented to help adult students learn the language effectively, particularly within first-year university preparatory programs. However, despite the huge efforts in aiding the educational process of English as a foreign language (EFL), there is a large turnout of students not meeting the criteria needed to pass their preparatory year. As students are enrolled in one EFL program with the same textbook and are expected to achieve the same benchmarks, there has arisen a need to reexamine the mode in which the curriculum is being delivered. The way forward seems to be remedial intervention that addresses the inadequacies of the non-progressing learners, and utilizes an instructional approach that modifies material and instruction to meet learners’ individual needs. The approach which takes into account individual differences has been known amongst educationalists as Differentiated Instruction (DI). This action research investigation seeks to explore DI as it is being implemented at an EFL remedial program, its procedures and outcomes. We hypothesize that students would benefit from the varied instruction, modified materials and flexible grouping within the class setup. Quantitative data was collected in the form of the grades of a pretest and a posttest. The differences in the results of the two sets of tests showed positive impact of implementing DI on learning, and were found to be statistically significant. Also, tutors' opinions were sought through a mini questionnaire consisting of open-ended questions. It is hoped that the action research thus conducted will contribute to answering pertinent questions and benefit the EFL remedial practice as well as future studies.
EFL Secondary Teaching Practices in Blending Learning: A Case of Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Saleh Reema Sultan Shaher
Published: October 2017

This study investigated secondary stage teachers’ Blended Learning (BL) current practices in Tabuk city. The qualitative data was collected from a random sample of 50 EFL teachers Interviews were conducted to examine EFL teachers’current practices of BL. The results of the interviews indicated that 84% of EFL teachers were neither familiar with the term BL nor had ever designed BL activities. 16% of the teachers stated that they were familiar with BL and provided examples of their current practices. The practices reflected their misconceptions about real implementation of BL method. Some of them thought that using simple technology like PowerPoint presentations with traditional textbook activities was a type of blending. None of the participants used language learning websites, mobile applications or online activities in their daily instruction. The teachers had no trouble identifying benefits of BL in English teaching but they lacked a clear vision of BL pedagogy, lesson/activity design and implementation. EFL teachers highlighted the need to provide them with training sessions, resources, capabilities and support for effective implementation.
Administrative Support, Remuneration Policy and Faculty Teaching Efficacy in Vietnamese Higher Education
Authors: Duong Quang Minh
Published: October 2017

The study aims to analyze the efficiency of training programme at POWERGRID Corporation of India Limited with a special reference to academic parameters, and to find out if there is any improvement required to make the training programme more effective. Descriptive research design has been used in the study. The sample size is 127. A survey was carried out to obtain the feedback of the trainees. About 93.70% of the respondents are of the view that initial class room training is sufficient. About 96.06% of them are of the view that the post On Job Training (OJT) is constructive and indispensable. About 89.76% of the respondents said that the rotational OJT is valuable. The findings show that the trainees were satisfied up to a large extent with the training programme. To improve the training programme; module should be updated on yearly basis, period of training should be less than one year and there should be more industry visits on time to time basis.
POTENCIALIDADES PEDAGÓGICAS DA ÁREA DE PROTEÇÃO AMBIENTAL ITUPARARANGA: PERCEPÇÕES DE EDUCADORES E EDUCANDOS
Authors: Almeida Gabriela Godinho de , Toppa Rogério Hartung , De Fiori Andréia
Published: October 2017

A criação de áreas legalmente protegidas visa conservar ambientes naturaise garantir que atividades humanas ocorram de maneira sustentável.Entretanto, sua efetividade depende da contextualização e participação dascomunidades locais durante o processo de criação e gestão. Isso se dá pormeio de ações de Educação Ambiental que promovam a sensibilização e aconscientização, estimulando o envolvimento da população na redução dosimpactos ambientais gerados. Nas escolas estaduais de Ibiúna (SP), municípioque compõe 62% da Área de Proteção Ambiental (APA) Itupararanga, osresultados deste estudo, obtidos por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadascom educadores e enquetes com educandos, demonstraram que, emboragrande parte dos educadores tenha conhecimento sobre a APA e suaimportância, essas informações atingem uma pequena parcela doseducandos. Concluímos que a introdução da APA no cotidiano escolar podetrazer contribuições pedagógicas significativas, fundamentadas nos objetivosdessa categoria de Unidade de Conservação.
ESTUDO DO PROCESSO DE TORREFAÇÃO DE RESÍDUOS DE BIOMASSAS PARA FINS ENERGÉTICOS
Authors: Silva Allison Gonçalves , Santos Thaise Alves dos , Bandeira Marcus Luciano Silva de Ferreira , Oliveira Priscila Ferreira de
Published: October 2017

O objetivo deste trabalho foi estudar resíduos de coco, cacau e dendê —culturas largamente encontradas no Extremo Sul da Bahia —, verificando oefeito da torrefação a diferentes temperaturas (230, 240 e 250 °C) sobre essasbiomassas, de modo a observar sua influência no poder calorífico superior(PCS) por meio de análise imediata, termogravimétrica e de microscopiaeletrônica de varredura. A caracterização físico-química dos materiais secose torrificados apontou uma tendência à diminuição dos teores de voláteis ede umidade, aumento dos teores de carbono fixo, de cinzas e do PCS, sendoessas características mais acentuadas a temperaturas mais altas. De modogeral, os experimentos realizados contribuíram para o maior potencialenergético dos resíduos estudados. A biomassa de coco apresentou o maiorPCS, sendo 24,59 MJ.kg-1. Para a biomassa de coco torrificada, o aumentomédio no PCS, com relação à biomassa seca, foi de 24,1%, para cacau 21,3%e para dendê 35,2%.