Dynamical systems are the paradigm for the representation of complex systems. The fixed encoding in a closed set of equations, however, contrasts with the openness of biogeochemical systems. Parameter identification is a major problem in biogeochemical systems and calibration of parameters converts models into ‘fitting machines’. Openness, self-modification, and historicity of biogeochemical sy...

Co-Investigators: John D. Aber, University of New Hampshire William R. Emanuel, University of Virginia Leonard A. Fisk, University of Michigan Changsheng Li, University of New Hampshire Jerry M. Melillo, Marine Biological Laboratory Bruce J. Peterson, Marine Biological Laboratory Barrett N. Rock, University of New Hampshire David L. Skole, University of New Hampshire Charles J. Vorosmarty, Univ...

This report suggests a structured way to identify the type of data needed to perform a sound ecological risk assessment for genetically modified higher plants (GMHP). The identified data types are intended to support the evaluation of the following risks: risk of invasion and establishment of the modified plant in natural habitats; risk of introgression of the inserted traits to other plant spe...

Different methods have been developed for mineral exploration so far, amongst which biological-based methods known as geomicrobiological studies are of the most recent ones. Geomicrobiology as an interdisciplinary approach has achieved great progresses during the past two decades and involves the study of microbes in a number of fundamental geological processes, both in the past and present. Th...

Archaea constitute a considerable fraction of the microbial biomass on Earth. Like Bacteria they have evolved a variety of energy metabolisms using organic and/or inorganic electron donors and acceptors, and many of them are able to fix carbon from inorganic sources. Archaea thus play crucial roles in the Earth's global geochemical cycles and influence greenhouse gas emissions. Methanogenesis a...