Locating the critical end point using the linear sigma model coupled to quarks

We use the linear sigma model coupled to quarks to compute the effective potential beyond the mean field approximation, including the contribution of the ring diagrams at finite temperature and baryon density. We determine the model couplings and use them to study the phase diagram in the baryon chemical potential-temperature plane and to locate the Critical End Point.Comment: 8 pages, 2 figures, conference paper from ISMD 201

Scaling from single-point sap velocity measurements to stand transpiration in a multi-species deciduous forest: uncertainty sources, stand structure effect, and future scenarios impacts

ABSTRACT A major challenge in studies estimating stand water use in mixed-species forests is how to effectively scale data from individual trees to the stand. This is the case for forest ecosystems in the northeastern USA where differences in water use among species and across different size classes have not been extensively studied, despite their relevance for a wide range of ecosystem services. Our objectives were to assess the importance of different sources of variability ontranspiration upscaling and explore the potential impacts of future shifts in species composition on forest water budget. We measured sap velocity in five tree species (Fagus grandiflora, Acer rubrum, A. saccharum, Betula alleghaniensis, B. papyrifera) in a mature and young stand in NH (USA). Our results showed that the greatest potential source of error was radial variability and that tree size was more important than species in determining sap velocity. Total sapwood area was demonstrated to exert a strong controlling influence on transpiration, varying depending on tree size and species. We conclude that the effect of potential species shifts on transpirationwill depend on the sap velocity, determined mainly by radial variation and tree size, but also on the sapwood area distribution in the stand

Scaling from single-point sap velocity measurements to stand transpiration in a multi-species deciduous forest: uncertainty sources, stand structure effect, and future scenarios impacts

ABSTRACT A major challenge in studies estimating stand water use in mixed-species forests is how to effectively scale data from individual trees to the stand. This is the case for forest ecosystems in the northeastern USA where differences in water use among species and across different size classes have not been extensively studied, despite their relevance for a wide range of ecosystem services. Our objectives were to assess the importance of different sources of variability ontranspiration upscaling and explore the potential impacts of future shifts in species composition on forest water budget. We measured sap velocity in five tree species (Fagus grandiflora, Acer rubrum, A. saccharum, Betula alleghaniensis, B. papyrifera) in a mature and young stand in NH (USA). Our results showed that the greatest potential source of error was radial variability and that tree size was more important than species in determining sap velocity. Total sapwood area was demonstrated to exert a strong controlling influence on transpiration, varying depending on tree size and species. We conclude that the effect of potential species shifts on transpirationwill depend on the sap velocity, determined mainly by radial variation and tree size, but also on the sapwood area distribution in the stand

Short-Term Study Abroad: Perspectives on Speaking Gains and Language Contact

Previous studies have shown that study abroad has a positive effect on second language (L2) learning outcomes for students who spend at least a semester abroad. It is unclear, however, whether a short-term experience also has a measurable impact on L2 development. The present study examines the relationship between speaking proficiency gains made by students during a short-term study abroad program and their target language use outside of class in the host environment. To determine the potential relationships between speaking gains and language use, a background information questionnaire, a two-part modified language contact profile (LCP), and a pre-program and post-program simulated oral proficiency interview (SOPI) were administered to 20 students in a traditional short-term study abroad program in Spain. Findings indicate that the group did improve their speaking proficiency. At the same time, data taken from the LCP suggest that study abroad learners did not engage in extensive social interaction with native speakers throughout the duration of the program. To improve traditional short-term study abroad programs, the author uses these results to discuss aspects of the programmatic structure that could strengthen the program’s linguistic benefits