ENSO influence on surface energy and mass balance at Shallap Glacier, Cordillera Blanca, Peru

The El Niño/Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is a major driver of climate variability in the tropical Andes, where recent Niño and Niña events left an observable footprint on glacier mass balance. The nature and strength of the relationship between ENSO and glacier mass balance, however, varies between regions and time periods, leaving several unanswered questions about its exact mechanisms. The starting point of this study is a 4-year long time series of distributed surface energy and mass balance (SEB/SMB) calculated using a process-based model driven by observations at Shallap Glacier (Cordillera Blanca, Peru). These data are used to calibrate a regression-based downscaling model that links the local SEB/SMB fluxes to atmospheric reanalysis variables on a monthly basis, allowing an unprecedented quantification of the ENSO influence on the SEB/SMB at climatological time scales (1980–2013, ERA-Interim period). We find a stronger and steadier anti-correlation between Pacific sea-surface temperature (SST) and glacier mass balance than previously reported. This relationship is most pronounced during the wet season (December–May) and at low altitudes where Niño (Niña) events are accompanied with a snowfall deficit (excess) and a higher (lower) radiation energy input. We detect a weaker but significant ENSO anti-correlation with total precipitation (Niño dry signal) and positive correlation with the sensible heat flux, but find no ENSO influence on sublimation. Sensitivity analyses comparing several downscaling methods and reanalysis data sets resulted in stable mass balance correlations with Pacific SST but also revealed large uncertainties in computing the mass balance trend of the last decades. The newly introduced open-source downscaling tool can be applied easily to other glaciers in the tropics, opening new research possibilities on even longer time scales

Augmented Haptics - An Interactive Feedback System for Musicians

Großhauser T, Hermann T. Augmented Haptics - An Interactive Feedback System for Musicians. In: Altinsoy ME, Merchel S, eds. Haptic and Audio Interaction Design 4th International Conference, Proceedings. Lecture Notes in Computer Science, 5763. Berlin, Heidelberg: Springer; 2009: 100-108.This paper presents integrated tactiles (or vibrotactiles), a novel interface for movement and posture tuition that provides real-time feedback in a tactile form by means of interactive haptic feedback. Tactile feedback conveys information by using non-audio and non-visual form and is a promising means for movements in 3D-space. In this paper we demonstrate haptic augmentation for applications for musicians, since it (a) doesn't affect the visual sense, occupied by reading music and communication, (b) doesn't disturb in bang sensitive situations like concerts, (c) allows to relate feedback information in the same tactile medium as the output of the musical instrument, so that an important feedback channel for musical instrument playing is extended and trained supportive. Even more, instructions from the teacher and the computer can be transmitted directly and unobtrusively in this channel. This paper presents a prototype system together with demonstrations of applications that support violinists during musical instrument learning

ENSO influence on surface energy and mass balance at Shallap Glacier, Cordillera Blanca, Peru

The El Niño/Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is a major driver of climate variability in the tropical Andes, where recent Niño and Niña events left an observable footprint on glacier mass balance. The nature and strength of the relationship between ENSO and glacier mass balance, however, varies between regions and time periods, leaving several unanswered questions about its exact mechanisms. The starting point of this study is a 4-year long time series of distributed surface energy and mass balance (SEB/SMB) calculated using a process-based model driven by observations at Shallap Glacier (Cordillera Blanca, Peru). These data are used to calibrate a regression-based downscaling model that links the local SEB/SMB fluxes to atmospheric reanalysis variables on a monthly basis, allowing an unprecedented quantification of the ENSO influence on the SEB/SMB at climatological time scales (1980–2013, ERA-Interim period). We find a stronger and steadier anti-correlation between Pacific sea-surface temperature (SST) and glacier mass balance than previously reported. This relationship is most pronounced during the wet season (December–May) and at low altitudes where Niño (Niña) events are accompanied with a snowfall deficit (excess) and a higher (lower) radiation energy input. We detect a weaker but significant ENSO anti-correlation with total precipitation (Niño dry signal) and positive correlation with the sensible heat flux, but find no ENSO influence on sublimation. Sensitivity analyses comparing several downscaling methods and reanalysis data sets resulted in stable mass balance correlations with Pacific SST but also revealed large uncertainties in computing the mass balance trend of the last decades. The newly introduced open-source downscaling tool can be applied easily to other glaciers in the tropics, opening new research possibilities on even longer time scales

Sports Nutrition - Current Recommendations

Adequate intake of high quality proteins and amino acids is essential for the body in order to build up structures such as muscle, tendons, ligaments and bone. Protein intake also regulates and affects various metabolic processes, including hormonal regulation. Accordingly, proteins and amino acids are, to varying extents, able to stimulate or inhibit anabolic signal transduction pathways and the synthesis and secretion of various hormones such as insulin, growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1).This means that tailoring protein intake to an athletes specific type of sport and exercise intensity can be helpful in supporting the training process and improving performance. The aims of adjusting intake in this way may include maintaining or building muscle mass or muscle strength, preventing a catabolic state, and improving recovery following exercise.Even though the importance of protein intake in the field of sport is increasingly well-known, there is still much controversy regarding intake levels, types of protein sources, optimal amino acid composition, and ideal timing of intake. The lay press and commercial websites in particular often provide biased or incorrect recommendations without scientific evidence.This position paper summarizes the current state of knowledge regarding the physiological effects of protein intake in sports, paying particular attention to the aspects of intake level and the dose-response relationship. Key Words: Metabolic Processes, Amino Acids, Muscle, Dose-Response Relationship, Performance, Regeneratio

Sports Nutrition - Current Recommendations

Carbohydrates are an important source of energy during physical exercise. Carbohydrates lead to a higher energy yield and higher energy flux per liter of oxygen than the oxidation of fatty acids. However, the storage capacity for carbohydrates in liver and muscles is limited.Therefore, athletes performing prolonged endurance or intermittent high-intensity exercise should include a high proportion of carbohydrates in their daily diet. The individual amount depends on body weight and the extent of physical activity. Energy expenditure during physical exercise results in a gradual depletion of carbohydrate stores. The extent to which carbohydrate stores are depleted is dependent on the duration and intensity of exercise.Therefore, particularly during prolonged intense exercise, performance may be improved by consuming an adequate quantity of carbohydrates during exercise. In addition, following a long period of intensive physical activity, rapid post-exercise intake of carbohydrates can help replenish carbohydrate stores more quickly.This position paper sets out current guidelines for the type, quantity and timing of carbohydrate intake in sport. It will also discuss the significance of carbohydrate loading, the glycemic index, and training without prior intake of carbohydrates. Key Words: Carbohydrate Intake, Glycemic Index, Physical Activity, Glycogen Stores, Energy Suppl

HISTORY OF PUBLIC SCHOOL ORGANIZATION AND ADMINISTRATION IN FRESNO COUNTY, CALIFORNIA. - Page 188

Carbohydrates are an important source of energy during physical exercise. Carbohydrates lead to a higher energy yield and higher energy flux per liter of oxygen than the oxidation of fatty acids. However, the storage capacity for carbohydrates in liver and muscles is limited.Therefore, athletes performing prolonged endurance or intermittent high-intensity exercise should include a high proportion of carbohydrates in their daily diet. The individual amount depends on body weight and the extent of physical activity. Energy expenditure during physical exercise results in a gradual depletion of carbohydrate stores. The extent to which carbohydrate stores are depleted is dependent on the duration and intensity of exercise.Therefore, particularly during prolonged intense exercise, performance may be improved by consuming an adequate quantity of carbohydrates during exercise. In addition, following a long period of intensive physical activity, rapid post-exercise intake of carbohydrates can help replenish carbohydrate stores more quickly.This position paper sets out current guidelines for the type, quantity and timing of carbohydrate intake in sport. It will also discuss the significance of carbohydrate loading, the glycemic index, and training without prior intake of carbohydrates. Key Words: Carbohydrate Intake, Glycemic Index, Physical Activity, Glycogen Stores, Energy Suppl

Sports Nutrition - Current Recommendations

This position paper deals with safety aspects of the use of dietary supplements (DS) in sports. DS are legally classified as foodstuffs and may contain vitamins, minerals and other substances with a nutritional or physiological effect. In the case of other substances with a nutritional or physiological effect, it is currently not specifically regulated, with a few exceptions, which individual substances may be added, provided the products are still classified as foods. DS are offered in a wide variety and can be purchased worldwide via the internet. In Germany, they are only subject to a notification requirement before being launched on the market; they are not subject to safety assessment by state authorities. The manufacturers/distributors of the DS are responsible for their safety and for ensuring that consumers are not misled by the product presentation and promotion.For athletes, a balanced diet that is adapted to their needs is a basic requirement and one of the preconditions for good athletic performance. DS are no replacement for a balanced diet.In sports, the use of DS or products that contain micronutrients and other substances with a nutritional or physiological effect should not be conducted uncritically. Possible risks, such as an unintentional violation of anti-doping regulations or potential health risks, should be considered. Key Words: Doping Risk, Wada Prohibited List, Health Risks, Vitamins, Minerals, Caffein

Sports Nutrition - Current Recommendations

This position statement represents the current state of scientific knowledge regarding the recommended fat intake in ambitious recreational and high level sports. It also addresses dietary strategies (fat-loading methods) and food supplements that are designed to influence fat metabolism during physical exercise.No recommendation has so far been established for sports-specific fat intake in absolute numbers (g/kg body weight [BW]/d), in line with international practices regarding carbohydrate and protein. However, there is consensus among scientific sports medicine associations that fat consumption should not exceed 30% of the energy intake (E%), nor fall below 20 E%, particularly in endurance sports.Before competitions, some athletes practice fat-loading strategies which include a ketogenic diet. This procedure is not advisable, as there is no scientific evidence of improvement in either endurance (>70% VO2max) or sprint/strength performance. Moreover, the extensive restriction of carbohydrate intake is not in accordance with the internationally-accepted nutritional guidelines for athletes, and the food choice is unbalanced according to the recommendations of the German Nutrition Society (DGE).The current use of dietary supplements which are supposed to improve the availability/oxidation of fatty acids, e.g. caffeine, carnitine, fish oil, middle chain triglycerides (MCT), is also generally discouraged. Key Words: Dietary Supplements, Ketogenic Diet, Carnitine, Fish Oil, Middle Chain Triglycerides (MCT

The First achievement of longitudinal spin polarization in a high-energy electron storage ring

A pair of spin rotators has been installed in the electron ring of HERA. Longitudinal spin polarizations up to 65% have been reached reproducibly during dedicated measurement time. This is the first time that longitudinal spin polarization has been produced in a high energy electron storage ring