bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Responses of soil nematode communities to agroecological crop management systems
Authors: Santiago Débora Cristina , Arieira Giovani de Oliveira , de Almeida Edinei , Guimarães Maria de Fátima 
Published: March 2012

Soil nematodes are sensitive to human intervention and widely used as biological indicators of disruptions and alterations in soil quality. The aim of this work was to identify nematodes that are good biological indicators in maize crops under different management systems, and to establish the impact levels of these systems. Soil samples were collected over a 3-year period at a depth of 0.0-0.3 m in areas under six different management systems for maize (Zea mays) monoculture, and intercropped maize and Canavalia ensiformis. Six areas of native vegetation were also assessed to provide a reference for ecological balance. After identification and counting, nematode communities were characterised according to abundance (total and relative), diversity (identified genera and diversity indexes), trophic structure and ecological maturity (disturbance indexes). Nematodes proved to be good ecological indicators, responding to the systems employed. Intercropping maize and Canavalia ensiformis in at least one assessment year reduced disruption and increased nematode diversity, which were both verified based on specific indexes. It was also observed that the maize monoculture increased disruption leading to a drop in nematode fauna diversity and an increase in the incidence of plant-feeding nematodes.
Continuous and Discrete Time: Scientific Possibilities
Authors: Montemayor Carlos 
Published: March 2012

AbstractThis paper presents a philosophical and scientifically informed assessment of the continuity of time. It provides experimental evidence for the continuity of psychological time and evaluates the view that physical and psychological time may be continuous. It then offers a potential problem for the continuity of physical time, which adds plausibility to the possibility that only psychological time is continuous. The main contributions of the paper are that it provides an adequate and up to date interpretation of traditional philosophical views concerning the continuity of time, and that it argues for a reliabilist account of the epistemology of the mathematical continuum.
A Scientific Reading of Levinas’ Response to Heidegger: The Redemptive Edge of Time
Authors: Grandy David 
Published: March 2012

AbstractIn responding to Martin Heidegger, Emmanuel Levinas characterized time as revelatory and redemptive. For Levinas, Heideggerian being was self-contained and self-identical, and therefore unable to generate the sense of novel possibility which occasions the fleeting present. Something similar to Heideggerian Being may be said to have taken hold in the nineteenth century with the development of thermodynamics. The second law of thermodynamics was portrayed as the “arrow of time” moving inevitably toward universal heat death—cosmic stasis or self-identity. I argue that modern physical science itself does not fully validate this portrayal. There are, at the metaphysical level, explanatory gaps or openings which suggest other, more hopeful possibilities. These openings, I submit, are analogous to the ruptures of otherness which Levinas identified with the generosity of being and time’s redemptive aspect.
Time and the Horizon of Poignancy: Notes on Temporally Induced Sorrow
Authors: Flaherty Michael G. 
Published: March 2012

AbstractThe origin of poignancy is our awareness of eventual loss due to the ephemerality of existence. Socialization produces a self that is simultaneously subject and object, knower and known. Self-consciousness is an awareness that one exists, one matters, and strong feelings are attached to one’s continued existence. To be self-conscious, however, is to be aware of one’s eventual demise. Moreover, each passing moment is immediately and irretrievably lost, which can make it precious in our sight, its loss poignant when we remember that our days are numbered. I examine poignancy in everyday life and literature. The essential formula for poignancy appears to be a collision between our capacity to imagine an infinite future and the finitude of all human experience. Susan Sontag’s study of photography provides further evidence for this argument.
The Murid Order and Its ‘Doctrine of Work’
Authors: Kariya Kota 
Published: March 2012

Abstract
The Murid order was founded by Aḥmad Bamba (d. 1927) at the end of the nineteenth century in the area corresponding to the western region of contemporary Senegal. Many scholars have referred to a characteristic item of faith in this order, known as the ‘doctrine of work’. On the basis of a review of studies that refer to the doctrine and an analysis of Bamba’s writings and other Arabic works, this paper indicates problems that result from insisting on a relationship between the doctrine and Bamba’s thoughts without citing appropriate sources, as well as from a biased interpretation of his passages.
A Regional Climatography of West Nile, Uganda, to Support Human Plague Modeling
Authors: Monaghan Andrew J. , MacMillan Katherine , Moore Sean M. , Mead Paul S. , Hayden Mary H. , Eisen Rebecca J. 
Published: March 2012

AbstractThe West Nile region in northwestern Uganda is a focal point for human plague, which peaks in boreal autumn and is spread by fleas that travel on rodent hosts. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is collaborating with the National Center for Atmospheric Research to quantitatively address the linkages between climate and human plague in this region. The aim of this paper is to advance knowledge of the climatic conditions required to maintain enzootic cycles and to trigger epizootic cycles and ultimately to target limited surveillance, prevention, and control resources. A hybrid dynamical–statistical downscaling technique was applied to simulations from the Weather Research and Forecasting Model (WRF) to generate a multiyear 2-km climate dataset for modeling plague in the West Nile region. The resulting dataset resolves the spatial variability and annual cycle of temperature, humidity, and rainfall in West Nile relative to satellite-based and in situ records. Topography exerts a first-order influence on the climatic gradients in West Nile, which lies in a transition zone between the drier East African Plateau and the wetter Congo Basin, and between the unimodal rainfall regimes of the Sahel and the bimodal rainfall regimes characteristic of equatorial East Africa. The results of a companion paper in which the WRF-based climate fields were applied to develop an improved logistic regression model of human plague occurrence in West Nile are summarized, revealing robust positive associations with rainfall at the tails of the rainy season and negative associations with rainfall during a dry spell each summer.
Arctic Response to an MJO-Like Tropical Heating in an Idealized GCM
Authors: Yoo Changhyun , Lee Sukyoung , Feldstein Steven B. 
Published: March 2012

Abstract
Using an initial-value approach with an idealized general circulation model, the mechanisms by which the Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO) influences the Arctic surface air temperature (SAT) are investigated. Model calculations corresponding to MJO phases 1 and 5 are performed, as previous studies have shown that these two phases are associated with a cooling and warming of the Arctic surface, respectively. Observed MJO-like tropical heating profiles are specified, with the phase 5 (phase 1) heating taking on a more zonally localized (uniform) spatial structure. A large ensemble of model runs is performed, where the initial flow of each ensemble member consists of the winter climatology together with an initial perturbation that is selected randomly from observational data. The model calculations show that MJO phase 5 (phase 1) is followed by a strengthening (weakening) in the poleward wave activity propagation out of the tropics, which leads to an increase (decrease) in Arctic SAT. Examination of the corresponding eddy momentum flux convergence and mass streamfunction fields shows that an eddy-induced mean meridional circulation warms (cools) the Arctic for phase 5 (phase 1). Further Arctic warming (cooling) takes place through changes in the planetary-scale, poleward eddy heat flux. In addition, calculations with a passive tracer added to the model show an increase (decrease) in the high-latitude tracer concentration for MJO phase 5 (phase 1). These results suggest that the observed changes in Arctic downward infrared radiation associated with the MJO may be associated with changes in poleward moisture transport.
Effects of Varying the Shape of the Convective Heating Profile on Convectively Coupled Gravity Waves and Moisture Modes
Authors: Fuchs Željka , Gjorgjievska Saska , Raymond David J. 
Published: March 2012

Abstract
The analytical model of convectively coupled gravity waves and moisture modes of Raymond and Fuchs is extended to the case of top-heavy and bottom-heavy convective heating profiles. Top-heavy heating profiles favor gravity waves, while bottom-heavy profiles support moisture modes. The latter behavior results from the sensitivity of moisture modes to the gross moist stability, which is more negative with bottom-heavy heating.
A numerical implementation of the analytical model allows calculations in the two-dimensional nonrotating case as well as on a three-dimensional equatorial beta plane. In the two-dimensional case the analytical and numerical models are mostly in agreement, although minor discrepancies occur. In three dimensions the gravity modes become equatorial Kelvin waves whereas the moisture modes are more complex and require further investigation.
Tidal Cycles in Stratification and Shear and Their Relationship to Gradient Richardson Number and Eddy Viscosity Variations in Estuaries
Authors: Whitney Michael M. , Codiga Daniel L. , Ullman David S. , McManus Pearse M. , Jiorle Ralph 
Published: March 2012

Abstract
Tidal cycles in stratification and shear lead to tidal variations in mixing in many estuaries. This study 1) defines readily observable dimensionless parameters for establishing the sense and magnitude of gradient Richardson number Ri and eddy viscosity K changes from maximum to minimum stratification during a tidal cycle and 2) calculates where representative estuaries fit in this parameter space. The dimensionless parameters are Ri calculated with tidal-averaged stratification and shear, scaled stratification amplitude, and a scaled shear parameter. The scaled stratification amplitude is approximately the tidal amplitude of stratification divided by the tidal-averaged stratification. The scaled shear parameter depends on the scaled tidal amplitude of shear and the phase difference between the tidal cycles of stratification and shear. Over most of the parameter space, Ri is larger at maximum stratification. If the scaled stratification amplitude falls below a threshold value defined in terms of the scaled shear parameter, shear effects dominate and cause Ri to be greater at minimum stratification. Two-thirds of the selected estuary locations have greater Ri at maximum stratification. The remaining locations are dominated by shear differences and have an atypical mixing cycle with greater Ri at minimum stratification. The Ri and K tidal variations and the position in the parameter space can drastically shift with the spring–neap cycle and spatial variations within an estuary.
Observing Ocean Surface Waves with GPS-Tracked Buoys
Authors: Herbers T. H. C. , Jessen P. F. , Janssen T. T. , Colbert D. B. , MacMahan J. H. 
Published: March 2012

Abstract
Surface-following buoys are widely used to collect routine ocean wave measurements. While accelerometer and tilt sensors have been used for decades to measure the wave-induced buoy displacements, alternative global positioning system (GPS) sensor packages have been introduced recently that are generally smaller, less expensive, and do not require calibration. In this study, the capabilities of several GPS sensors are evaluated with field observations in wind-sea and swell conditions off the California coast. The GPS buoys used in this study include Datawell Directional Waverider and Mini Directional Waverider buoys equipped with a specialized GPS Doppler shift sensor, and a low-cost experimental drifter equipped with an “off the shelf” GPS receiver for absolute position tracking. Various GPS position receivers were attached to the Waverider buoys to evaluate their potential use in low-cost wave-resolving drifters. Intercomparisons between the Datawell GPS-based buoys, the experimental GPS drifter, and a conventional Datawell buoy with an accelerometer–tilt–compass sensor package, show good agreement in estimates of wave frequency and direction spectra. Despite the limited (several meters) absolute accuracy of the GPS position receivers, the horizontal wave orbital displacements are accurately resolved, even in benign (significant wave height less than 1 m) swell conditions. Vertical sea surface displacements were not well resolved by the GPS position receivers with built-in or small patch antennas, but accurately measured when an external precision antenna was attached to the drifter. Overall, the field tests show excellent agreement between Datawell buoys using GPS and motion-sensor packages, and demonstrate the feasibility of observing ocean surface waves with low-cost GPS-tracked drifters.
Detection of Oceanic Quasi-Zonal Jets from Altimetry Observations
Authors: Ivanov L. M. , Collins C. A. , Margolina T. M. 
Published: March 2012

Abstract
Recent analyses of observations and ocean model outputs have revealed coherent low-frequency quasi-zonal jets in observed sea surface height (SSH) anomaly and model velocity fields. The jets were latent, that is, they were not detectable by eye, but revealed and selected by time-averaging procedures. Time-averaging procedures, when applied to fields that contain propagating features (eddies and waves), can create jetlike structures of nonphysical nature (artifacts). This paper suggests the application of three criteria to distinguish real jets from these artifacts, and demonstrates that quasi-zonal jets extracted from satellite altimetry observations off California were not artifacts. First, quasi-zonal jets off California were stronger than artifacts: the observed SSH for the jets reached 4–5 cm, which is considerably larger than SSH artifacts, which did not exceed 0.9–1.2 cm. Second, axes of the observed jets were not always oriented along the paths of propagating mesoscale features (waves and eddies). Observed jet axes rotated as late as 12 months after propagating mesoscale features changed their propagation direction. This behavior differed from that of artifacts, the axes of which should be oriented in the same direction as propagation paths of mesoscale features. Third, generation (amplification) of quasi-zonal jets was accompanied by phase synchronization or locking of flow time scales resulting from interactions between these scales. Because artifacts were a result of linear averaging procedures, they cannot exhibit such phase synchronization.
Far-Field Power of Lightning Strokes as Measured by the World Wide Lightning Location Network
Authors: Hutchins Michael L. , Holzworth Robert H. , Rodger Craig J. , Brundell James B. 
Published: March 2012

Abstract
The World Wide Lightning Location Network (WWLLN) is a long-range network capable of locating lightning strokes in space and time. While able to locate lightning to within a few kilometers and tens of microseconds, the network currently does not measure any characteristics of the strokes themselves. The capabilities of the network are expanded to allow for measurements of the far-field power from the root-mean-square electric field of the detected strokes in the 6–18-kHz band. This is accomplished by calibrating the network from a single well-calibrated station using a bootstrapping method. With this technique the global median stroke power seen by the network is 1.0 × 106 W, with an average uncertainty of 17%. The results are validated through comparison to the return-stroke peak current as measured by the New Zealand Lightning Detection Network and to the previous ground wave power measurements in the literature. The global median stroke power herein is found to be four orders of magnitude lower than that reported earlier for the measurements, including the nearby ground and sky wave. However, it is found that the far-field waveguide mode observations herein are consistent with the previous literature because of differences in observational techniques and the efficiency of coupling into a propagation wave in the Earth–ionosphere waveguide. This study demonstrates that the WWLLN-determined powers can be used to estimate the return-stroke peak currents of individual lightning strokes occurring throughout the globe.
Physical Activity-Related Experiences, Counseling Expectations, Personal Responsibility, and Altruism among Urban African American Women with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Miller Stephania T. , Marolen Khensani 
Published: March 2012

Purpose The purpose of this study was to explore physical activity-related experiences, perceptions, and counseling expectations among urban, underactive, African American women with type 2 diabetes. Methods Participants were recruited via flyers and endocrinologist referral. A professional, African American female moderator led 2 focus groups among 11 participants. Focus groups were conducted in a video- and audio-equipped focus group room in the evening hours. Using a content-based, stepped analytic approach, 2 raters independently analyzed data and collaborated to compare results and finalize themes. Results Competing priorities and lack of motivation were perceived as significant barriers to physical activity. Physical activity-related counseling expectations (ie, physician encouragement) and experiences (physician advising) were inconsistent. Participants expressed a high degree of physical activity-related health responsibility. Altruistic intentions were high relative to helping others incorporate healthful lifestyle changes. Conclusions When counseling women about physical activity, diabetes educators should acknowledge and provide support and resources to help women incorporate more physical activity into their regular routines and enhance motivation for physical activity. Educators should also couple physical activity-related advice with encouragement and support. Because of high levels of altruism, educators should consider implementing group- and/or peer-based physical activity interventions in this patient group.
Lifestyle Behaviors, Chronic Diseases, and Ratings of Health Between Black and White Adults with Pre-diabetes
Authors: Zhou Qiuping (Pearl) , Remsburg Robin , Caufield Kristin , Itote Elizabeth W. 
Published: March 2012

Purposes The purposes of this study were to assess differences in lifestyle behaviors and other health-related factors between black and white adults with pre-diabetes and to identify predictors for lifestyle behaviors. Methods Using the 2007 and 2009 data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), an annual cross-sectional survey of randomly selected samples from each state, black (n = 1156) and white (n = 9539) adults with pre-diabetes were compared on lifestyle behaviors, general health practices, perceptions of health, chronic diseases, and access to care. Predictors for participating in regular physical activity and adequate intake of fruits and vegetables were identified for each racial and gender group using multiple regression procedures. Results Less than 40% of the adults with pre-diabetes participated in regular physical activity, and less than a quarter had adequate intake of fruits and vegetables; only 20% met the body weight recommendations. Compared to whites, blacks were more likely to be overweight/obese (86% vs 79%) and less likely to engage in regular physical activity (29% vs 40%). Except for adequate intake of fruits and vegetables, each racial and gender group had different predictors for regular physical activity. For black males, the predictors included impaired physical health and coronary heart disease/stroke. For black females, the predictors were younger age and routine checkup. Conclusions Significant disparities exist between blacks and whites in lifestyle behaviors and other health-related factors. Targeted intervention strategies are needed to motivate blacks to modify behaviors to prevent or delay the development of diabetes.
Genome-wide associations for milk production and somatic cell score in Holstein-Friesian cattle in Ireland
Authors: Meredith Brian K , Kearney Francis J , Finlay Emma K , Bradley Daniel G , Fahey Alan G , Berry Donagh P , Lynn David J 
Published: March 2012

Abstract

Background
Contemporary dairy breeding goals have broadened to include, along with milk production traits, a number of non-production-related traits in an effort to improve the overall functionality of the dairy cow. Increased indirect selection for resistance to mastitis, one of the most important production-related diseases in the dairy sector, via selection for reduced somatic cell count has been part of these broadened goals. A number of genome-wide association studies have identified genetic variants associated with milk production traits and mastitis resistance, however the majority of these studies have been based on animals which were predominantly kept in confinement and fed a concentrate-based diet (i.e. high-input production systems). This genome-wide association study aims to detect associations using genotypic and phenotypic data from Irish Holstein-Friesian cattle fed predominantly grazed grass in a pasture-based production system (low-input).

Results
Significant associations were detected for milk yield, fat yield, protein yield, fat percentage, protein percentage and somatic cell score using separate single-locus, frequentist and multi-locus, Bayesian approaches. These associations were detected using two separate populations of Holstein-Friesian sires and cows. In total, 1,529 and 37 associations were detected in the sires using a single SNP regression and a Bayesian method, respectively. There were 103 associations in common between the sires and cows across all the traits. As well as detecting associations within known QTL regions, a number of novel associations were detected; the most notable of these was a region of chromosome 13 associated with milk yield in the population of Holstein-Friesian sires.

Conclusions
A total of 276 of novel SNPs were detected in the sires using a single SNP regression approach. Although obvious candidate genes may not be initially forthcoming, this study provides a preliminary framework upon which to identify the causal mechanisms underlying the various milk production traits and somatic cell score. Consequently this will deepen our understanding of how these traits are expressed.