Applying trait-based models to achieve functional targets for theory-driven ecological restoration

Manipulating community assemblages to achieve functional targets is a key component of restoring degraded ecosystems. The response-and-effect trait framework provides a conceptual foundation for translating restoration goals into functional trait targets, but a quantitative framework has been lacking for translating trait targets into assemblages of species that practitioners can actually manipulate. This study describes new trait-based models that can be used to generate ranges of species abundances to test theories about which traits, which trait values and which species assemblages are most effective for achieving functional outcomes. These models are generalisable, flexible tools that can be widely applied across many terrestrial ecosystems. Examples illustrate how the framework generates assemblages of indigenous species to (1) achieve desired community responses by applying the theories of environmental filtering, limiting similarity and competitive hierarchies, or (2) achieve desired effects on ecosystem functions by applying the theories of mass ratios and niche complementarity. Experimental applications of this framework will advance our understanding of how to set functional trait targets to achieve the desired restoration goals. A trait-based framework provides restoration ecology with a robust scaffold on which to apply fundamental ecological theory to maintain resilient and functioning ecosystems in a rapidly changing world

Determination of the heat balance of the earth: Interpretation of radiation measurements from satellites

A method is developed for estimating the mean and mean-square variation of the flux at an altitude arbitrarily chosen to represent the top of the atmosphere. When applied to practical satellite measurements, the method is shown to be optimum in that the estimated mean is unbiased and the mean square variation of the estimates converges to that of the true flux. Data from the Meteor-1 and -2 satellites support the essential assumptions and provide a quantitative indication of the performance that can be expected

Position location system and method Patent

Position locating system for remote aircraft using voice communication and digital signal

Relativistic Effects in Extrasolar Planetary Systems

This paper considers general relativistic (GR) effects in currently observed extrasolar planetary systems. Although GR corrections are small, they can compete with secular interactions in these systems and thereby play an important role. Specifically, some of the observed multiple planet systems are close to secular resonance, where the dynamics is extremely sensitive to GR corrections, and these systems can be used as laboratories to test general relativity. For the three-planet solar system Upsilon Andromedae, secular interaction theory implies an 80% probability of finding the system with its observed orbital elements if GR is correct, compared with only a 2% probability in the absence of GR. In the future, tighter constraints can be obtained with increased temporal coverage.Comment: Accepted for publication in International Journal of Modern Physics D; this paper received ``Honorable Mention'' in the 2006 Essay Competition of the Gravity Research Foundation; 9 pages including 1 figur

Note on the Electron Energy Spectrum in the Inner Van Allen Belt

Electron energy spectrum in the inner van allen bel

Detection and Implications of a Time-reversal breaking state in underdoped Cuprates

We present general symmetry considerations on how a Time-reversal breaking state may be detected by angle-resolved photoemission using circularly polarized photons as has been proposed earlier. Results of recent experiments utilizing the proposal in underdoped cuprates are analysed and found to be consistent in their symmetry and magnitude with a theory of the Copper-Oxides. These togather with evidence for a quantum critical point and marginal Fermi-liquid properties near optimum doping suggest that a valid microscopic theory of the phenomena in the cuprates has been found.Comment: A statement on detecting the Anyon state is added and some typos are subtracte

Position location and data collection system and method Patent

Development of telemetry system for position location and data acquisitio

Core-Accretion Model Predicts Few Jovian-Mass Planets Orbiting Red Dwarfs

The favored theoretical explanation for giant planet formation -- in both our solar system and others -- is the core accretion model (although it still has some serious difficulties). In this scenario, planetesimals accumulate to build up planetary cores, which then accrete nebular gas. With current opacity estimates for protoplanetary envelopes, this model predicts the formation of Jupiter-mass planets in 2--3 Myr at 5 AU around solar-mass stars, provided that the surface density of solids is enhanced over that of the minimum-mass solar nebula (by a factor of a few). Working within the core-accretion paradigm, this paper presents theoretical calculations which show that the formation of Jupiter-mass planets orbiting M dwarf stars is seriously inhibited at all radial locations (in sharp contrast to solar-type stars). Planet detection programs sensitive to companions of M dwarfs will test this prediction in the near future.Comment: 10 pages including 2 figures; accepted to ApJ Letter

Traffic control system and method

Frequency of carrier received by aircraft is measured and compared with reference to indicate magnitude of Doppler shift. One Doppler frequency range is selected and indicated by digital signal. Difference between frequency is offset of apparent carrier frequency transmitted by aircraft