Mechanics and thermodynamics of a new minimal model of the atmosphere

The understanding of the fundamental properties of the climate system has long benefitted from the use of simple numerical models able to parsimoniously represent the essential ingredients of its processes. Here, we introduce a new model for the atmosphere that is constructed by supplementing the now-classic Lorenz ’96 one-dimensional lattice model with temperature-like variables. The model features an energy cycle that allows for energy to be converted between the kinetic form and the potential form and for introducing a notion of efficiency. The model’s evolution is controlled by two contributions—a quasi-symplectic and a gradient one, which resemble (yet not conforming to) a metriplectic structure. After investigating the linear stability of the symmetric fixed point, we perform a systematic parametric investigation that allows us to define regions in the parameters space where at steady-state stationary, quasi-periodic, and chaotic motions are realised, and study how the terms responsible for defining the energy budget of the system depend on the external forcing injecting energy in the kinetic and in the potential energy reservoirs. Finally, we find preliminary evidence that the model features extensive chaos. We also introduce a more complex version of the model that is able to accommodate for multiscale dynamics and that features an energy cycle that more closely mimics the one of the Earth’s atmosphere

Die Zukunft des Monitorings in der Klinischen Forschung - ganzheitlich gesehen: Die Abhängigkeiten zwischen Risiko-basiertem Monitoring und Qualitätsmanagement

Since several years risk-based monitoring is the new "magic bullet" for improvement in clinical research. Lots of authors in clinical research ranging from industry and academia to authorities are keen on demonstrating better monitoring-efficiency by reducing monitoring visits, monitoring time on site, monitoring costs and so on, always arguing with the use of risk-based monitoring principles. Mostly forgotten is the fact, that the use of risk-based monitoring is only adequate if all mandatory prerequisites at site and for the monitor and the sponsor are fulfilled.Based on the relevant chapter in ICH GCP (International Conference on Harmonisation of technical requirements for registration of pharmaceuticals for human use - Good Clinical Practice) this publication takes a holistic approach by identifying and describing the requirements for future monitoring and the use of risk-based monitoring. As the authors are operational managers as well as QA (Quality Assurance) experts, both aspects are represented to come up with efficient and qualitative ways of future monitoring according to ICH GCP.Seit einigen Jahren wird von den verschiedensten Autoren - aus den industriellen, akademischen oder behördlichen Bereichen der Klinischen Forschung - das Risiko-basierte Monitoring fast wie eine Wunderformel beschworen und bewertet. Um die damit erzielten Verbesserungsmöglichkeiten nachzuweisen, werden generelle Effizienzsteigerungen und Kosteneinsparungen bei den unterschiedlichen Monitoringaktivitäten beschrieben: weniger Monitoringbesuche am Zentrum, reduzierte Dauer der Monitoringbesuche oder mehr technisch unterstütztes Monitoring.Direkt oder indirekt enthalten die Publikationen oft auch Hinweise auf die notwendigen Voraussetzungen sowohl beim Zentrum als auch bei Monitor und Sponsor, um Risiko-basiertes Monitoring adequat einzusetzen; bei der Umsetzung werden diese Bedingungen gerne vergessen.Durch den ganzheitlichen Ansatz in dieser Publikation soll Risiko-basiertes Monitoring unter Einhaltung dieser Voraussetzungen beschrieben werden. Die Autoren, darunter sowohl Operational Manager als auch QA-Experten, haben auf der Grundlage der relevanten ICH-GCP-Kapitel die Notwendigkeiten und vor allem die Möglichkeiten eines Risiko-basierten Monitorings identifiziert und definiert