title: A generalized two-component model of solar wind turbulence and ab initio diffusion mean-free paths and drift lengthscales of cosmic rays

authors: Wiengarten, T.

abstract: We extend a two-component model for the evolution of fluctuations in the solar wind plasma so that it is fully three-dimensional (3D) and also coupled self-consistently to the large-scale magnetohydrodynamic equations describing the background solar wind. The two classes of fluctuations considered are a high-frequency parallel-propagating wave-like piece and a low-frequency quasi-two-dimensional component. For both components, the nonlinear dynamics is dominanted by quasi-perpendicular spectral cascades of energy. Driving of the fluctuations by, for example, velocity shear and pickup ions is included. Numerical solutions to the new model are obtained using the Cronos framework, and validated against previous simpler models. Comparing results from the new model with spacecraft measurements, we find improved agreement relative to earlier models that employ prescribed background solar wind fields. Finally, the new results for the wave-like and quasi-two-dimensional fluctuations are used to calculate ab initio diffusion mean-free paths and drift lengthscales for the transport of cosmic rays in the turbulent solar wind.

text: A generalized two-component model of solar wind turbulence and ab initio diffusion mean-free paths and drift lengthscales of cosmic rays We extend a two-component model for the evolution of fluctuations in the solar wind plasma so that it is fully three-dimensional (3D) and also coupled self-consistently to the large-scale magnetohydrodynamic equations describing the background solar wind. The two classes of fluctuations considered are a high-frequency parallel-propagating wave-like piece and a low-frequency quasi-two-dimensional component. For both components, the nonlinear dynamics is dominanted by quasi-perpendicular spectral cascades of energy. Driving of the fluctuations by, for example, velocity shear and pickup ions is included. Numerical solutions to the new model are obtained using the Cronos framework, and validated against previous simpler models. Comparing results from the new model with spacecraft measurements, we find improved agreement relative to earlier models that employ prescribed background solar wind fields. Finally, the new results for the wave-like and quasi-two-dimensional fluctuations are used to calculate ab initio diffusion mean-free paths and drift lengthscales for the transport of cosmic rays in the turbulent solar wind.

year: 2016

title: Locating whitebait (Galaxias argenteus) eggs via canine scent detection

authors: Cooper, Ashlee Jane

subjects: Dog

abstract: The New Zealand whitebait fishery consists of five species of Galaxiidae fish and constitutes a culturally important commercial and recreational resource for New Zealand. Despite efforts by the Department of Conservation and regional councils, there has been a significant decline in whitebait over the past several decades, with three of the five whitebait species (īnanga, giant kōkopu, kōaro) now classified as 'declining’ and one (shortjaw kōkopu) considered ‘threatened’. Adult fish spawn on riparian vegetation near river mouths during spring tides, the eggs then develop aerially until the following spring tide when they hatch, and the larvae disperse into coastal estuaries. Anthropogenic activities such as flood management, vegetation removal and reduced water quality have led to widespread loss of suitable spawning habitat. Identification of spawning habitat is a key aspect to conserving whitebait species. However, visual surveys for spawning sites are time consuming and spawning areas difficult to predict, as most species do not return to the same spawning site each year. Scent-detection dogs may provide an efficient and effective way of locating whitebait nests, allowing increased protection of spawning areas against disturbance. Four dogs were trained to reliably detect and discriminate giant kōkopu (Galaxias argenteus) eggs from garden snail (Cantareus aspersus) eggs, grass, and blank (no scent) samples within a laboratory-based line-up with a high level of accuracy (≥90% hit rate and ≤10% false alarm rate). Progressing from this, one dog worked on scent line-ups outdoors and demonstrated the ability to reliably detect giant kōkopu eggs (≥90% hit rate and ≤10% false alarm rate), with increasing environmental complexity, as a progression towards application of these dogs for whitebait egg detection in the field. This research provides an opportunity to further explore the use of dogs to detect whitebait spawning sites in the field, potentially providing a new tool for whitebait conservation in New Zealand.

text: Locating whitebait (Galaxias argenteus) eggs via canine scent detection The New Zealand whitebait fishery consists of five species of Galaxiidae fish and constitutes a culturally important commercial and recreational resource for New Zealand. Despite efforts by the Department of Conservation and regional councils, there has been a significant decline in whitebait over the past several decades, with three of the five whitebait species (īnanga, giant kōkopu, kōaro) now classified as 'declining’ and one (shortjaw kōkopu) considered ‘threatened’. Adult fish spawn on riparian vegetation near river mouths during spring tides, the eggs then develop aerially until the following spring tide when they hatch, and the larvae disperse into coastal estuaries. Anthropogenic activities such as flood management, vegetation removal and reduced water quality have led to widespread loss of suitable spawning habitat. Identification of spawning habitat is a key aspect to conserving whitebait species. However, visual surveys for spawning sites are time consuming and spawning areas difficult to predict, as most species do not return to the same spawning site each year. Scent-detection dogs may provide an efficient and effective way of locating whitebait nests, allowing increased protection of spawning areas against disturbance. Four dogs were trained to reliably detect and discriminate giant kōkopu (Galaxias argenteus) eggs from garden snail (Cantareus aspersus) eggs, grass, and blank (no scent) samples within a laboratory-based line-up with a high level of accuracy (≥90% hit rate and ≤10% false alarm rate). Progressing from this, one dog worked on scent line-ups outdoors and demonstrated the ability to reliably detect giant kōkopu eggs (≥90% hit rate and ≤10% false alarm rate), with increasing environmental complexity, as a progression towards application of these dogs for whitebait egg detection in the field. This research provides an opportunity to further explore the use of dogs to detect whitebait spawning sites in the field, potentially providing a new tool for whitebait conservation in New Zealand.

year: 2021

title: Evaluation of Rongo Atea: Alcohol and Other Drug Treatment Centre for Adolescents

authors: Paki, Helen Mary

subjects: Alcohol

abstract: Abstract Rongo Ātea is a residential abstinence-based Kaupapa Māori alcohol and other drug programme accommodating youth between the ages of 13 and 17. This evaluation investigates the role that staff play at Rongo Ātea along with a number of other factors including the physical environment; stages of change; programme implementation and aftercare. As a Kaupapa Māori programme, the role of how culture and identity can influence positive change is also explored along with the development of a youth-focused approach. I utilised a three phase framework borrowed from the work of Mason Durie (2008) to organise themes. These three phases, which Durie (2008) based on marae encounters, include Whakapiri (Engagement); Whakamarama (Enlightenment); and Whakamana (Empowerment) as they aptly reflect a three phase intervention approach: detoxification and early programme engagement; learning and development through ongoing programme commitment; and post treatment outcomes and aftercare. The data collection phase of this evaluation took place in 2006 and was initiated by the manager of Rongo Ātea who requested an evaluation to identify programme strengths and limitations from the perspectives of staff and students, and to make recommendations to Rongo Ātea that would assist with further programme developments. I utilised a collaborative and participatory approach (Bishop, 1996; Patton, 1990). Kaupapa Māori research principles were reflected in the use of ‘kanohi kitea’— face to face contact (Smith, 1999). With appropriate training and management support, staff could have a greater influence on programme outcomes. Evaluation findings suggest that drug and alcohol intervention and treatment for young people in New Zealand is significantly under-resourced, particularly in the areas of detoxification and aftercare. To be effective, residential treatment programmes should consist of a three stage programme covering detoxification; treatment; and aftercare incorporating an integrated approach. A greater emphasis on working with whānau alongside the young person is recommended.

text: Evaluation of Rongo Atea: Alcohol and Other Drug Treatment Centre for Adolescents Abstract Rongo Ātea is a residential abstinence-based Kaupapa Māori alcohol and other drug programme accommodating youth between the ages of 13 and 17. This evaluation investigates the role that staff play at Rongo Ātea along with a number of other factors including the physical environment; stages of change; programme implementation and aftercare. As a Kaupapa Māori programme, the role of how culture and identity can influence positive change is also explored along with the development of a youth-focused approach. I utilised a three phase framework borrowed from the work of Mason Durie (2008) to organise themes. These three phases, which Durie (2008) based on marae encounters, include Whakapiri (Engagement); Whakamarama (Enlightenment); and Whakamana (Empowerment) as they aptly reflect a three phase intervention approach: detoxification and early programme engagement; learning and development through ongoing programme commitment; and post treatment outcomes and aftercare. The data collection phase of this evaluation took place in 2006 and was initiated by the manager of Rongo Ātea who requested an evaluation to identify programme strengths and limitations from the perspectives of staff and students, and to make recommendations to Rongo Ātea that would assist with further programme developments. I utilised a collaborative and participatory approach (Bishop, 1996; Patton, 1990). Kaupapa Māori research principles were reflected in the use of ‘kanohi kitea’— face to face contact (Smith, 1999). With appropriate training and management support, staff could have a greater influence on programme outcomes. Evaluation findings suggest that drug and alcohol intervention and treatment for young people in New Zealand is significantly under-resourced, particularly in the areas of detoxification and aftercare. To be effective, residential treatment programmes should consist of a three stage programme covering detoxification; treatment; and aftercare incorporating an integrated approach. A greater emphasis on working with whānau alongside the young person is recommended.

year: 2010