bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-term effect of fresh and composted cattle manure on the size and nutrient composition of dry-sieved soil aggregates
Authors: Miller J. J. , Bremer E. , Beasley B. W. , Drury C. F. , Zebarth B. J. , Larney F. J.
Published: May 2012

Miller, J. J., Bremer, E., Beasley, B. W., Drury, C. F., Zebarth, B. J. and Larney, F. J. 2012. Long-term effect of fresh and composted cattle manure on the size and nutrient composition of dry-sieved soil aggregates. Can. J. Soil Sci. 92: 673–683. Application of feedlot manure to cropland may impact the size distribution and nutrient content of soil aggregates. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of fresh or composted feedlot manure containing straw or wood-chip bedding on dry-sieved aggregate size distribution and nutrient contents. Surface (0–15 cm) soil samples were obtained from a long-term field experiment where treatments were fresh (FM) or composted manure (CM) containing straw or wood-chips applied annually at 0 (control) or 77 Mg ha−1yr−1for 11 yr. Air-dried soil samples were separated using a rotary sieve into six aggregate size fractions ranging from <0.47 mm to >12.7 mm. Total C, total N, C:N ratio, soil mineralizable N (41-d incubation), total P, soil test P, and P saturation index were determined on the six aggregate fractions. The amendments significantly (P≤0.05) increased the proportion of smaller (<0.47 mm) aggregates and decreased the proportion of the larger (>12.7 mm) aggregates relative to the unamended control. The geometric mean diameter (GMD) was also lower and wind erodible fraction (WEF) was greater for the amended treatments than unamended control. We attributed this manure effect to increased organic matter content in the soil making the aggregates more friable and susceptible to breakdown by tillage. Carbon, N, and P concentrations were not shifted to smaller aggregate sizes where root growth and nutrient uptake are generally greater. The exception was mineralizable N, which tended to be greater in the finer<0.47 mm fraction. Mineralizable soil N in all aggregate sizes ≥0.47 mm was reduced for wood-chip compared with straw bedding, and resulted in net N immobilization in aggregate sizes ≥1.2 mm. Phosphorus sorption was lower in soil amended with wood-chips compared with straw bedding for aggregates ≥0.47 mm. Long-term manure application may shift soil aggregates from larger to finer fractions because of greater friability and suggests that these soils should be managed to avoid the greater risk of wind erosion.
Solute transport in a hummocky landscape: I. Two-dimensional redistribution of bromide
Authors: Olatuyi S. O. , Akinremi O. O. , Flaten D. N. , Lobb D. A.
Published: May 2012

Olatuyi, S. O., Akinremi, O. O., Flaten, D. N. and Lobb, D. A. 2012. Solute transport in a hummocky landscape: I. Two-dimensional redistribution of bromide. Can. J. Soil Sci. 92: 609–629. Bromide has been widely used in field studies to estimate nitrate leaching in agricultural soils. This study examined the impacts of crop response to nitrogen fertilization on the vertical and lateral redistribution of bromide in the fall and spring seasons in a hummocky landscape. The study was carried out near Brandon, Manitoba, in 2007 and 2008, using two separate plots (Site-2007 and Site-2008). The plots were delineated into three landscape positions as upper (UPP), middle (MID) and lower (LOW) slope. A microplot at each landscape position received 15N labelled fertilizer (KNO3) at the rates of 0, 90 and 135 kg N ha−1, and KBr at the rate of 200 kg Br− ha−1. Site-2007 was seeded to canola while Site-2008 was seeded to winter wheat. Soil samples were taken within the microplot to a depth of 120 cm for vertical distribution, and up to 200 cm away from the microplot for lateral distribution of Br− in the top 20 cm depth. The downward movement of Br− in the soil was reduced under N fertilization. This resulted in the accumulation of Br− in fertilized plots, and a greater lateral movement of Br− in fertilized compared with unfertilized plots. The greatest vertical and lateral movement of Br− occurred at the LOW slope position. In the fall season following Br− application, 55 and 15% of the Br− applied were recovered in the vertical and lateral components of the landscape, respectively. Estimated loss of Br− due to vertical and lateral movement was 47% in the unfertilized treatment and 36% with N fertilization. The order of Br− loss in the two dimensions was: LOW (48%)>MID (40%)>UPP (37%). The study shows that crop response to N fertilization reduced the vertical movement of solute, thereby providing an experimental support for the “Campbell hypothesis” which states that N fertilization and proper rate of N application reduces nitrate leaching.
Solute transport in a hummocky landscape: II. Vertical and seasonal redistribution of bromide and 15N-labelled nitrate
Authors: Olatuyi S. O. , Akinremi O. O. , Hao X.
Published: May 2012

Olatuyi, S. O., Akinremi, O. O. and Hao, X. 2012. Solute transport in a hummocky landscape: II. Vertical and seasonal redistribution of bromide and 15 N-labelled nitrate. Can. J. Soil Sci. 92: 631–643. Bromide (Br−) tracer is often used to estimate potential nitrate-nitrogen (NO3-N) leaching in soil. An alternative is to use 15N-labelled fertilizer to provide a direct measure of NO3-N leaching losses. We employed a dual application of Br− and 15N to estimate NO3-N leaching in a hummocky landscape. The study was carried out near Brandon, Manitoba, in 2007 and 2008, using two separate plots (Site-2007 and Site-2008). The plots were delineated into three landscape positions as upper (UPP), middle (MID) and lower (LOW) slope. A microplot at each landscape received KBr at the rate of 200 kg Br− ha−1, and 15N-labelled KNO3 fertilizer at the rates of 0, 90 and 135 kg N ha−1. Site-2007 and Site-2008 were seeded to canola and winter wheat, respectively. Soil samples were taken in the fall and spring. The soil samples for the 90 and 135 kg N ha−1 fertilization treatments were analyzed for vertical distribution of Br−, 15N, and NO3-N. The smallest amounts of Br−, nitrogen derived from 15N-labelled fertilizer (NDFF), and NO3-N were measured in the soil profile (0 to 120 cm) at the LOW slope position for both N fertilizer rates. The greatest amounts were at the MID slope, indicating that the downward movement of solute followed the order of: LOW>UPP>MID (P<0.05). Crop uptake of fertilizer N was 35 and 63% in canola and winter wheat, respectively, while Br− uptake was negligible. In the absence of crop uptake, Br− transport was similar to that of NDFF as 38% of each solute was lost between fall and spring in Site-2007 and 33% in Site-2008. Unlike Br− and NDFF, NO3-N distribution remained unchanged between fall and spring measurements, possibly due to its replenishment from native soil N sources. The dual tracer technique, as used in this study, showed the limitations of using soil profile NO3-N alone as an indicator of nitrate leaching and for making treatment comparisons.
Influence of tillage displaced soil on the productivity and yield components of barley in northwest Iran
Authors: Nazmi Leila , Asadi Hossein , Manukyan Ruzanna , Naderi Hamdollah
Published: May 2012

Nazmi, L., Asadi, H., Manukyan, R. and Naderi, H. 2012. Influence of tillage displaced soil on the productivity and yield components of barley in northwest Iran. Can. J. Soil Sci. 92: 665–672. In hilly landforms subject to long-term cultivation, erosion has denuded the upper slope positions of topsoil, and accumulated topsoil in the lower slope positions. Slope gradient and position effects aggregation processes, which in turn impact soil productivity. A field experiment was conducted to assess the tillage-induced soil displacement and its effects on the soil properties and barley (Hordeum vulgare var. Sahand) biomass production for three different landscapes. The study was conducted on a hill slope seeded with barley (1.4–10.1° slope) located in the Mollaahmad watershed of the Ardabil province in northwestern Iran. For this purpose, soil samples were collected from four slope positions in a grassland as well as an agricultural field (dryland). A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of slope gradient and position on barley growth and soil quality. Soil generally had lower organic carbon, available phosphorus, calcium carbonate equivalent, soil water content and mean weight diameter of soil aggregates in the farmland than the grassland, and in the upper slope positions than in the lower slopes. Significantly higher barley growth indices were associated with lower slope positions. Agronomic productivity of the soil was lowest for landscapes with the highest slope gradient. The relationships between tillage erosion and yield components were found to be significant. Spike weight and slope position had the largest contribution for the explanatory capacity of canonical variables (tillage erosion and yield components) estimated when compared with other parameters (slope gradient, dry matter, spike number, grain yield and 1000-grain weight). The findings in this study can be used as a tool to assist farmers, soil and water conservationists, and other policymakers in decision making regarding the use of lands.
Retention and nitrification of injected anhydrous NH3as affected by soil pH
Authors: Benke Mônica B. , Goh Tee Boon , Karamanos Rigas , Lupwayi Newton Z. , Hao Xiying
Published: May 2012

Benke, M. B., Goh, T. B., Karamanos, R., Lupwayi, N. Z. and Hao, X. 2012. Retention and nitrification of injected anhydrous NH3as affected by soil pH. Can. J. Soil Sci. 92: 589–598. Anhydrous ammonia is an economical and extensively used fertilizer, yet loss after injection can reduce its agronomic efficiency. A laboratory experiment was conducted to examine how soil properties affect ammonia retention and nitrification following anhydrous NH3injection using 10 different Canadian prairie soils. Soils were also injected with atmospheric air for comparison. Following injection, soils were incubated for up to 216 h at field capacity. Among the soil properties studied [pH (1:2 water), clay, total N, and organic C contents], only pH was negatively related (R2=0.55, n=10, 24 h incubation) to percentage injected N retained by soil. The amount of N retained by soil 24 h following injection was 92±2% (mean±SEM) when pH <6, compared with 64±2% when pH>7.5. Rate of nitrification increased (P<0.001) about 48–96 h following injection and was greater in pH>7.5 than pH<6 soils. There was no difference (P>0.05) in bacterial diversity between ammonia- and air-injected soils. The slower nitrification rates suggest that potential leaching and denitrification losses in acid soils could be smaller than in alkaline soils.
Iodine emissions from the sea ice of the Weddell Sea
Authors: Atkinson H. M. , Huang R.-J. , Chance R. , Roscoe H. K. , Hughes C. , Davison B. , Schönhardt A. , Mahajan A. S. , Saiz-Lopez A. , Hoffmann T. , Liss P. S.
Published: May 2012

Abstract. Iodine compounds were measured above, below and within the sea ice of the Weddell Sea during a cruise in 2009, to elucidate the mechanism of local enhancement and volatilisation of iodine. I2 mixing ratios of up to 12.4 pptv were measured 10 m above the sea ice, and up to 31 pptv was observed above surface snow on the nearby Brunt Ice Shelf – large amounts. Atmospheric IO of up to 7 pptv was measured from the ship, and the average sum of HOI and ICl was 1.9 pptv. These measurements confirm the Weddell Sea as an iodine hotspot. Average atmospheric concentrations of CH3I, C2H5I, CH2ICl, 2-C3H7I, CH2IBr and 1-C3H7I were each 0.2 pptv or less. On the Brunt Ice Shelf, enhanced concentrations of CH3I and C2H5I (up to 0.5 and 1 pptv, respectively) were observed in firn air, with a diurnal profile that suggests the snow may be a source. In the sea ice brine, iodocarbons concentrations were over 10 times those of the sea water below. The sum of iodide + iodate was depleted in sea ice samples, suggesting some missing iodine chemistry. Flux calculations suggest I2 dominates the iodine atom flux to the atmosphere, but models cannot reconcile the observations and suggest either a missing iodine source or other deficiencies in our understanding of iodine chemistry. The observation of new particle formation, consistent with the model predictions, strongly suggests an iodine source. This combined study of iodine compounds is the first of its kind in this unique region of sea ice rich in biology and rich in iodine chemistry.
Comparison of CALIPSO aerosol optical depth retrievals to AERONET measurements, and a climatology for the lidar ratio of dust
Authors: Schuster G. L. , Vaughan M. , MacDonnell D. , Su W. , Winker D. , Dubovik O. , Lapyonok T. , Trepte C.
Published: May 2012

Abstract. We compared CALIPSO column aerosol optical depths at 0.532 μm to measurements at 147 AERONET sites, synchronized to within 30 min of satellite overpass times during a 3-yr period. We found 677 suitable overpasses, and a CALIPSO bias of −13% relative to AERONET for the entire data set; the corresponding absolute bias is −0.029, and the standard deviation of the mean (SDOM) is 0.014. Consequently, the null hypothesis is rejected at the 97% confidence level, indicating a statistically significant difference between the datasets. However, if we omit CALIPSO columns that contain dust from our analysis, the relative and absolute biases are reduced to −3% and −0.005 with a standard error of 0.016 for 449 overpasses, and the statistical confidence level for the null hypothesis rejection is reduced to 27%. We also analyzed the results according to the six CALIPSO aerosol subtypes and found relative and absolute biases of −29% and −0.1 for atmospheric columns that contain the dust subtype exclusively, but with a relatively high correlation coefficient of R = 0.58; this indicates the possibility that the assumed lidar ratio (40 sr) for the CALIPSO dust retrievals is too low. Hence, we used the AERONET size distributions, refractive indices, percent spheres, and forward optics code for spheres and spheroids to compute a lidar ratio climatology for AERONET sites located in the dust belt. The highest lidar ratios of our analysis occur in the non-Sahel regions of Northern Africa, where the median lidar ratio at 0.532 μm is 55.4 sr for 229 retrievals. Lidar ratios are somewhat lower in the African Sahel (49.7 sr for 929 retrievals), the Middle East (42.6 sr for 489 retrievals), and Kanpur, India (43.8 sr for 67 retrievals). We attribute this regional variability in the lidar ratio to the regional variability of the real refractive index of dust, as these two parameters are highly anti-correlated (correlation coefficients range from −0.51 to −0.85 for the various regions). The AERONET refractive index variability is consistent with the variability of illite concentration in dust across the dust belt.
Fractionation and current time trends of PCB congeners: evolvement of distributions 1950–2010 studied using a global atmosphere-ocean general circulation model
Authors: Lammel G. , Stemmler I.
Published: May 2012

Abstract. PCBs are ubiquitous environmental pollutants expected to decline in abiotic environmental media in response to decreasing primary emissions since the 1970s. A coupled atmosphere-ocean general circulation model with embedded dynamic sub-models for atmospheric aerosols and the marine biogeochemistry and air-surface exchange processes with soils, vegetation and the cryosphere is used to study the transport and fate of four PCB congeners covering a range of 3–7 chlorine atoms. The change of the geographic distribution of the PCB mixture reflects the sources and sinks' evolvement over time. Globally, secondary emissions (re-volatilisation from surfaces) are on the long term increasingly gaining importance over primary emissions. They are most important for congeners of medium hydrophobicity (5–6 chlorine atoms). Their levels are predicted to decrease slowest. Congeners' fractionation is characterized both geographically and temporally. It causes enrichment of the lighter, less persistent congeners and more delayed decreasing levels in high latitudes in response to decreasing emissions. Delivery of contaminants to high latitudes is predicted to be more efficient than previously suggested. The results suggest furthermore that the effectiveness of emission control measures may significantly vary among substances: trends of decline in abiotic environmental media do not only vary with latitude (slow in high latitudes), but do also show longitudinal gradients
Evaluating the capabilities and uncertainties of droplet measurements for the fog droplet spectrometer (FM-100)
Authors: Spiegel J. K. , Zieger P. , Bukowiecki N. , Hammer E. , Weingartner E. , Eugster W.
Published: May 2012

Abstract. Droplet size spectra measurements are crucial to obtain a quantitative microphysical description of clouds and fog. However, cloud droplet size measurements are subject to various uncertainties. This work focuses on the evaluation of two key measurement uncertainties arising during cloud droplet size measurements with a conventional droplet size spectrometer (FM-100): first, we addressed the precision with which droplets can be sized with the FM-100 on the basis of Mie theory. We deduced error assumptions and proposed how to correct measured size distributions for these errors by redistributing the measured droplet size distribution using a stochastic approach. Second, based on a literature study, we derived corrections for particle losses during sampling with the FM-100. We applied both corrections to cloud droplet size spectra measured at the high alpine site Jungfraujoch for a temperature range from 0 °C to 11 °C. We show that Mie scattering led to spikes in the droplet size distributions using the default sizing procedure, while the stochastic approach reproduced the ambient size distribution adequately. A detailed analysis of the FM-100 sampling efficiency revealed that particle losses were typically below 10% for droplet diameters up to 10 μm. For larger droplets, particle losses can increase up to 90% for the largest droplets of 50 μm at ambient windspeeds below 4.4 m s−1 and even to >90% for larger angles between the instrument orientation and the wind vector (sampling angle) at higher wind speeds. Comparisons of the FM-100 to other reference instruments revealed that the total liquid water content (LWC) measured by the FM-100 was more sensitive to particle losses than to re-sizing based on Mie scattering, while the total number concentration was only marginally influenced by particle losses. As a consequence, for further LWC measurements with the FM-100 we strongly recommend to consider (1) the error arising due to Mie scattering, and (2) the particle losses, especially for larger droplets depending on the set-up and wind conditions.
A new global model for the ionospheric F2 peak height for radio wave propagation
Authors: Hoque M. M. , Jakowski N.
Published: May 2012

Abstract. The F2-layer peak density height hmF2 is one of the most important ionospheric parameters characterizing HF propagation conditions. Therefore, the ability to model and predict the spatial and temporal variations of the peak electron density height is of great use for both ionospheric research and radio frequency planning and operation. For global hmF2 modelling we present a nonlinear model approach with 13 model coefficients and a few empirically fixed parameters. The model approach describes the temporal and spatial dependencies of hmF2 on global scale. For determining the 13 model coefficients, we apply this model approach to a large quantity of global hmF2 observational data obtained from GNSS radio occultation measurements onboard CHAMP, GRACE and COSMIC satellites and data from 69 worldwide ionosonde stations. We have found that the model fits to these input data with the same root mean squared (RMS) and standard deviations of 10%. In comparison with the electron density NeQuick model, the proposed Neustrelitz global hmF2 model (Neustrelitz Peak Height Model – NPHM) shows percentage RMS deviations of about 13% and 12% from the observational data during high and low solar activity conditions, respectively, whereas the corresponding deviations for the NeQuick model are found 18% and 16%, respectively.
Impact of mire reclamation on export potential and characteristics of dissolved carbons in the Sanjiang Plain, Northeast China
Authors: Guo Y. D. , Song C. C. , Lu Y. Z. , Song Y. Y. , Wan Z. M.
Published: May 2012

Abstract. As an important dissolved organic carbon (DOC) reservoir, the mires in the Sanjiang Plain, Northeast China, have been suffering from large scale of reclamation, and thus elevated loss and degradation since the 1960s. This study compares the export dynamics of the dissolved carbons, as well as the chemical characteristics of DOC, in the natural mire, degraded mire and drainage ditches during the growing seasons from 2008 to 2010 with the aim to clarify the final effects of the longterm reclamation on the export dynamics of the dissolved carbons. Results show that the average concentrations of total dissolved carbon (TC) and DOC are much higher in natural mires than that in degraded mire and drainage ditches. The DOC concentration for natural mires, about 35.53 ± 5.15 mg l−1 on average, is nearly 2.39 times of that in degraded mire (14.84 ± 4.21 mg l−1) and 2.77 times of the average value in ditches (12.84 ± 4.49 mg l−1). Similarly, the hydrophobic fraction and SUVA254 of DOC also represent lower values in the degraded mire and ditches, which suggests that mire reclamation has resulted not only in the reduced DOC concentrations but also in the reduced chemical stability. Whereas the inorganic dissolved carbons (DIC) exhibits obvious increased trends in drainage ditches in comparison to natural mires. Analyses of exitation-emission fluorescence spectra reveal that the reclamation has greatly altered the DOC composition with more biological organic substances exporting from the Sanjiang Plain. The presence of protein- and tryptophan-like substances in the ditches indicates there has been extensive agricultural pollution in the surface waters. Changes in the hydrological regime of the mire landscapes by sustained agriculture activities are deemed the prodominant reason, and the trends in the export dynamics of dissolved carbons will keep on if mire reclamation continues in the future.
Bacterial GDGTs in Holocene sediments and catchment soils of a high Alpine lake: application of the MBT/CBT-paleothermometer
Authors: Niemann H. , Stadnitskaia A. , Wirth S. B. , Gilli A. , Anselmetti F. S. , Sinninghe Damsté J. S. , Schouten S. , Hopmans E. C. , Lehmann M. F.
Published: May 2012

Abstract. A novel proxy for continental mean annual air temperature (MAAT) and soil pH, the MBT/CBT-paleothermometer, is based on the temperature (T) and pH-dependent distribution of specific bacterial membrane lipids (branched glycerol dialkyl glycerol tetraethers – GDGTs) in soil organic matter. Here, we tested the applicability of the MBT/CBT-paleothermometer to sediments from Lake Cadagno, a high Alpine lake in southern Switzerland with a small catchment of 2.4 km2. We analysed the distribution of bacterial GDGTs in catchment soils and in a radiocarbon-dated sediment core from the centre of the lake, covering the past 11 000 yr. The distribution of bacterial GDGTs in the catchment soils is very similar to that in the lake's surface sediments, indicating a common origin of the lipids. Consequently, their transfer from the soils into the sediment record seems undisturbed, probably without any significant alteration of their distribution through in situ production in the lake itself or early diagenesis of branched GDGTs. The MBT/CBT-inferred MAAT estimates from soils and surface sediments are in good agreement with instrumental values for the Lake Cadagno region (~0.5 °C). Moreover, downcore MBT/CBT-derived MAAT estimates match in timing and magnitude other proxy-based T reconstructions from nearby locations for the last two millennia. Major climate anomalies recorded by the MBT/CBT-paleothermometer are, for instance, the Little Ice Age (~14th to 19th century) and the Medieval Warm Period (MWP, ~9th to 14th century). Together, our observations indicate the quantitative applicability of the MBT/CBT-paleothermometer to Lake Cadagno sediments. In addition to the MWP, our lacustrine paleo T record indicates Holocene warm phases at about 3, 5, 7 and 11 kyr before present, which agrees in timing with other records from both the Alps and the sub-polar North-East Atlantic Ocean. The good temporal match of the warm periods determined for the central Alpine region with north-west European winter precipitation strength implies a strong and far-reaching influence of the North Atlantic Oscillation on continental European T variations during the Holocene.
High-resolution projections of surface water availability for Tasmania, Australia
Authors: Bennett J. C. , Ling F. L. N. , Post D. A. , Grose M. R. , Corney S. P. , Graham B. , Holz G. K. , Katzfey J. J. , Bindoff N. L.
Published: May 2012

Abstract. Changes to streamflows caused by climate change may have major impacts on the management of water for hydro-electricity generation and agriculture in Tasmania, Australia. We describe changes to Tasmanian surface water availability from 1961–1990 to 2070–2099 using high-resolution simulations. Six fine-scale (∼10 km2) simulations of daily rainfall and potential evapotranspiration are generated with the CSIRO Conformal Cubic Atmospheric Model (CCAM), a variable-resolution regional climate model (RCM). These variables are bias-corrected with quantile mapping and used as direct inputs to the hydrological models AWBM, IHACRES, Sacramento, SIMHYD and SMAR-G to project streamflows. The performance of the hydrological models is assessed against 86 streamflow gauges across Tasmania. The SIMHYD model is the least biased (median bias = −3%) while IHACRES has the largest bias (median bias = −22%). We find the hydrological models that best simulate observed streamflows produce similar streamflow projections. There is much greater variation in projections between RCM simulations than between hydrological models. Marked decreases of up to 30% are projected for annual runoff in central Tasmania, while runoff is generally projected to increase in the east. Daily streamflow variability is projected to increase for most of Tasmania, consistent with increases in rainfall intensity. Inter-annual variability of streamflows is projected to increase across most of Tasmania. This is the first major Australian study to use high-resolution bias-corrected rainfall and potential evapotranspiration projections as direct inputs to hydrological models. Our study shows that these simulations are capable of producing realistic streamflows, allowing for increased confidence in assessing future changes to surface water variability.
Flash floods and debris flow in the city area of Messina, north-east part of Sicily, Italy in October 2009: the case of the Giampilieri catchment
Authors: Aronica G. T. , Brigandí G. , Morey N.
Published: May 2012

Abstract. This paper concerns the analysis of the 1 October 2009 flash flood and debris flow event caused by a very intense rainfall concentrated over the Messina area. The storm caused severe flash floods in many villages around the city of Messina, such as Giampilieri, Scaletta Zanclea, Altolia Superiore and Molino, with 38 casualties and significant damages to property, buildings, roads and bridges estimated close to 550 million Euro. The main focus of this work is to perform a post event analysis, putting together available meteorological and hydrological data in order to get better insight into temporal and spatial variability of the rain storm, the soil moisture conditions and the consequent flash flood in the Giampilieri catchment. The event was investigated using observed data from a raingauge network. Statistical analysis using GEV distribution was performed and rainfall return period (storm severity) was estimated. Further, measured rainfall data and rainfall-runoff modelling were used to estimate soil moisture conditions, to analyse the hydrological behaviour and to reconstruct flood hydrograph. With the help of GIS technology and particularly spatial analysis, the volume of debris which has gone down into the Giampilieri village was also calculated. GIS maps with landslide and material deposit areas were produced and analysed.
Active tectonics along the submarine slope of south-eastern Sicily and the source of the 11 January 1693 earthquake and tsunami
Authors: Argnani A. , Armigliato A. , Pagnoni G. , Zaniboni F. , Tinti S. , Bonazzi C.
Published: May 2012

Abstract. South-eastern Sicily has been affected by large historical earthquakes, including the 11 January 1693 earthquake, considered the largest magnitude earthquake in the history of Italy (Mw = 7.4). This earthquake was accompanied by a large tsunami (tsunami magnitude 2.3 in the Murty-Loomis scale adopted in the Italian tsunami catalogue by Tinti et al., 2004), suggesting a source in the near offshore. The fault system of the eastern Sicily slope is characterised by NNW–SSE-trending east-dipping extensional faults active in the Quaternary. The geometry of a fault that appears currently active has been derived from the interpretation of seismic data, and has been used for modelling the tsunamigenic source. Synthetic tide-gauge records from modelling this fault source indicate that the first tsunami wave polarity is negative (sea retreat) in almost all the coastal nodes of eastern Sicily, in agreement with historical observations. The outcomes of the numerical simulations also indicate that the coastal stretch running from Catania to Siracusa suffered the strongest tsunami impact, and that the highest tsunami waves occurred in Augusta, aslo in agreement with the historical accounts. A large-size submarine slide (almost 5 km3) has also been identified along the slope, affecting the footwall of the active fault. Modelling indicates that this slide gives non-negligible tsunami signals along the coast; though not enough to match the historical observations for the 1693 tsunami event. The earthquake alone or a combination of earthquake faulting and slide can possibly account for the large run up waves reported for the 11 January 1693 event.
Analysis the 1978–2008 crustal and sub-crustal earthquake catalog of Vrancea region
Authors: Telesca L. , Alcaz V. , Sandu I.
Published: May 2012

Abstract. The crustal and sub-crustal seismicity that occurred in the Vrancea area from 1978 to 2008 is investigated. Due to quarry blast contamination, the analysis of the crustal seismicity was restricted to events that occurred between 20 km and 60 km, considering sub-crustal events as all those that occurred at depths larger than 60 km. The completeness magnitude was estimated between 2.3 and 2.5 for the crustal seismicity and between 2.9 and 3.1 for the sub-crustal one. The Gutenberg-Richter b-values show clear differences between crustal and sub-crustal seismicity, with values around 0.9 and 1.3–1.4, respectively. The analysis performed in this study represents a preliminary issue for the seismic hazard assessment of surrounding regions like Moldova, for which the earthquakes generated in Vrancea represent an important threat.
GRAMMAR LESSONS LEARNED: DEPENDENT CLAUSES, FALSE COGNATES, AND OTHER PROBLEMS IN RULE OF LAW PROGRAMMING
Authors: Channell Wade
Published: May 2012

The international donor community has spent decades working with developing countries to guide, promote, and even demand reforms aimed at improving socio-economic and political performance across a wide range of standards. One of the most prominent objectives has been to instill and establish stable rule of law where it is feeble or fractured, for a variety of noble reasons. Success in these endeavors has all too often been limited or temporary; positive gains, such as improved constitutions, are often offset by implementation and enforcement failures. Development assistance often focuses on the methods by which rule of law (ROL) is implemented. These technocratic or managerial solutions are only effective, however, if they are based on a proper understanding of the socio-political underpinnings of the work they are designed to advance.2 If the basic concept is wrong, then the mechanisms for achieving it are likely to be wrong. It is not good enough simply to do the wrong thing better. Improved delivery may require more than improved techniques; perhaps the fundamental failure is one of ideas, reflected and exacerbated, as this article will argue, in the very language of ROL reform. Some simple grammar lessons may help to reorient programming for effectiveness.
Unequal Promises
Authors: Bagchi Aditi
Published: May 2012

This essay explores the nature and implications of a type of inequality that is widespread, but largely ignored. Promises deliver important ethical value, and commercial promises, because they are our most common experience of promise with strangers, are of special value; but not all commercial promises generate that value equally. This paper makes the following claims: (1) while some retail promises are promises either to deliver a good or service, or to pay some compensation, other retail promises are simple promises to deliver a good or service; (2) retail promises in high-end markets are more likely to have the simple form, while retail promises in low-end markets are more likely to be conditional; (3) bifurcated promises that create less certainty and less entitlement are inferior to simple promises to deliver a good or service; and (4) inequality in the quality of retail promise has implications for how members from different social backgrounds relate to others in their political and economic community.
A THEORY OF AGENCY LAW
Authors: Dalley Paula J
Published: May 2012

Despite the ubiquity of agents in the modern world, agency law does not have a coherent explanation or unified theory. The Restatement (Third) of Agency updates and attempts to explain the law, but its explanations are limited in scope and at times unpersuasive. Like other contemporary commentary on agency law, the Third Restatement draws from contract and tort theory, an approach which ignores the unique features of agency law. Agency law enables principals to act through agents; it also ensures that principals using agents do not thereby escape liability or other consequences of their choices. This paper develops a theory to fit agency law. The "costbenefit internalization theory" is based on the simple premise that the principal, who has chosen to conduct her business through an agent, must bear the foreseeable consequences of that choice. Conversely, as the bearer of the risks, the principal is entitled to receive the benefits created by the agency relationship. The cost-benefit internalization theory explains and illuminates virtually all agency law doctrine.
Botulinum Toxin Type-A Toxinactivity in Prostate Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Proietti Silvia , Nardicchi Vincenza , Porena Massimo , Giannantoni Antonella
Published: May 2012

Aim of the study

Botulinum toxin A (BoNT/A) has been recently used in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia due to its apoptotic activity on prostatic epithelium but few data exist on this issue in prostate cancer. Also no information exist on the eventual modulation exerted by the neurotoxin on Phospholipase A2 (PLA2) expression in prostate cancer. The aim of this study was to evaluate the activity of BoNT/A on cell growth and expression of PLA2 in prostate cancer lines.

Materials and Methods

PC-3 and LNCaP cell lines were exposed to BoNT/A (Xeomin®), different doses and time of exposure. Presence of SV2 receptors (SV2-A and SV2-B) for the neurotoxin was also investigated. The expression of P-Ser505-cPLA2-α (phosphorylated enzyme) was performed immunofluorescence.

Results

After 96 hours of BoNT/A administration a 20% reduction of cell growth in LNCaP and 25% in PC-3 were observed. SV-2 receptors were expressed in both cell lines. No cPLA2–α total expression was found in LnCaP. In PC-3 there was a high expression of cPLA2–α total which was not modified after BoNT/A treatment. In both LNCap and PC-3 the expression of P-Ser505-cPLA2-α (phosphorylated enzyme) increases significantly after treatment with [10 U/ml] of BoNT/A.

Conclusions

LNCaP and PC-3 cell lines are sensitive to treatment with BoNT/A which probably enters the cells by SV2 receptors. The increase in the phosphorylated form of cPLA2-a, induced by BoNT/A may represent one mechanism by which the toxin reduces cell growth and proliferation.
The Ordered Network Structure of M≥8 Great Earthquakes and their Prediction in Mainland China
Authors: Men Kepei
Published: May 2012

China is one of the countries which have the most earthquake disasters in the world. A total of 23 M ≥ 8 earthquakes occurred in Mainland China from 1303 to 2010. The seismic activity of M ≥ 8 earthquakes has had an obvious self-organized orderliness. The main ordered values are 252~258 a, 108~112 a, 94~98 a, 44~47 a, 24~25 a, 16~19 a, and 11~14 a. According to the information forecasting theory of Wen-Bo Weng and combining ordered analysis with complex network technology, we build an informational ordered network structure of M ≥ 8 great earthquakes in Mainland China and try to explore the practical method for M ≥ 8 great earthquake prediction with Chinese characteristics. In this paper, we have summarized the prediction research on two great earthquakes (the 2001 Kunlunshan M8.1 and the 2008 Wenchuan M8.0 earthquake) during the beginning of the 21st century in western Mainland China. At last, with the method of ordered network structure, we present a new prediction opinion: the future M ≥ 8 great earthquakes will happen in 2026 and 2065 pre and post in Mainland China. The results show that a M ≥ 8 great earthquake could be predicted and the network feature is the formation mechanism of great earthquakes. The ordered network method has a unique effect on moderate term and long term prediction for M ≥ 8 great earthquakes.
One Dimensional Model of Martensitic Transformation Solved by Homotopy Analysis Method
Authors: Xuan Chen , Peng Cheng , Huo Yongzhong
Published: May 2012

The homotopy analysis method (HAM) is applied to solve a nonlinear ordinary differential equation describing certain phase transition problem in solids. Both bifurcation conditions and analytical solutions are obtained simultaneously for the Euler-Lagrange equation of the martensitic transformation. HAM is capable of providing an analytical expression for the bifurcation condition to judge the occurrence of the phase transition, while other numerical techniques have difficulties in bifurcation analysis. The convergence of the analytical solutions on the one hand can be adjusted by the auxiliary parameter and on the other hand is always obtainable for all relevant physical parameters satisfying the bifurcation condition.
A Theoretical Study of Lithium-Doped Gallium Clusters by Density Functional Theory
Authors: Şentürk Şükrü , Ekincioğlu Yavuz
Published: May 2012

The geometrical structures, stabilities, and electronic properties of Ga
n
Li (n = 1 - 13) clusters were investigated within the density functional theory (DFT). The impurity lithium atom enhances the stability of Ga
n
Li (n = 1 - 13) clusters, especially Ga
n
Li (n = 9 - 13) compared to Ga
n
(n = 9 - 14), that is at either apex position or side position. The dissociation energy, second-order energy differences, and the energy gaps between highest occupied and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (HOMO-LUMO) indicate that the Ga7Li, Ga9Li, and Ga11Li clusters are more stable within the studied cluster range. Moreover, the variation of the average bond length of Ga-Li is due to the surface effect, and the binding strength increases resulting from the increase of charge amount.
Flow of a Non-Newtonian Nanofluid Between Coaxial Cylinders with Variable Viscosity
Authors: Malik Muhammad Yousaf , Hussain Azad , Nadeem Sohail
Published: May 2012

In the present paper, we have focused our attention to highlight the study of a non-Newtonian nanofluid between coaxial cylinders with variable viscosity. The governing equations of the non- Newtonian fluid with variable viscosity along with energy and nanoparticles are given. The coupled nonlinear differential equations are solved analytically with the help of the homotopy analysis method (HAM). The convergence of the solution is discussed through h-curves. The physical features of pertinent parameters are discussed by plotting graphs.
Thermosolutal Convection in a Couple-Stress Fluid in Uniform Vertical Magnetic Field
Authors: Singh Mahinder , Kumar Pardeep
Published: May 2012

The effect of a uniform vertical magnetic field on thermosolutal convection in a layer of an electrically conducting couple-stress fluid heated and soluted from below is considered. For the case of stationary convection, the stable solute gradient, magnetic field, and couple-stress parameter have stabilizing effect on the system. It is also observed that a stable solute gradient and a magnetic field introduce oscillatory modes in the system, but in the absence of a stable solute gradient and a magnetic field, oscillatory modes are not allowed and the principle of exchange of stabilities is valid.
Heat Transfer in a Couple Stress Fluid over a Continuous Moving Surface with Internal Heat Generation and Convective Boundary Conditions
Authors: Hayat Tasawar , Iqbal Zahid , Qasim Muhammad , Aldossary Omar M.
Published: May 2012

This investigation reports the boundary layer flow and heat transfer characteristics in a couple stress fluid flow over a continuos moving surface with a parallel free stream. The effects of heat generation in the presence of convective boundary conditions are also investigated. Series solutions for the velocity and temperature distributions are obtained by the homotopy analysis method (HAM). Convergence of obtained series solutions are analyzed. The results are obtained and discussed through graphs for physical parameters of interest.
Generalized Majority Logic Criterion to Analyze the Statistical Strength of S-Boxes
Authors: Hussain Iqtadar , Shah Tariq , Gondal Muhammad Asif , Mahmood Hasan
Published: May 2012

The majority logic criterion is applicable in the evaluation process of substitution boxes used in the advanced encryption standard (AES). The performance of modified or advanced substitution boxes is predicted by processing the results of statistical analysis by the majority logic criteria. In this paper, we use the majority logic criteria to analyze some popular and prevailing substitution boxes used in encryption processes. In particular, the majority logic criterion is applied to AES, affine power affine (APA), Gray, Lui J, residue prime, S8 AES, Skipjack, and Xyi substitution boxes. The majority logic criterion is further extended into a generalized majority logic criterion which has a broader spectrum of analyzing the effectiveness of substitution boxes in image encryption applications. The integral components of the statistical analyses used for the generalized majority logic criterion are derived from results of entropy analysis, contrast analysis, correlation analysis, homogeneity analysis, energy analysis, and mean of absolute deviation (MAD) analysis.
Solution of the Coupled Burgers Equation Based on Operational Matrices of d-Dimensional Orthogonal Functions
Authors: Kazem Saeed , Shaban Malihe , Rad Jamal Amani
Published: May 2012

This paper aims to construct a general formulation for the d-dimensional orthogonal functions and their derivative and product matrices. These matrices together with the Tau method are utilized to reduce the solution of partial differential equations (PDEs) to the solution of a system of algebraic equations. The proposed method is applied to solve homogeneous and inhomogeneous two-dimensional parabolic equations. Also, the mentioned method is employed to find the solution of the coupled Burgers equation. Illustrative examples are included to demonstrate the validity and applicability of the presented technique.
A Comparative Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Study of the Solvation of CuClO4 in Binary Mixtures of Acetonitrile with Pyridine and Picolines at 298K
Authors: Gill Dip Singh , Rana Dilbag Singh , Chauhan Mohinder Singh
Published: May 2012

63Cu nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and viscosity studies of 0:064M CuClO4 solutions have been reported in binary mixtures of acetonitrile (AN) with pyridine (Py) and 2, 3, and 4-picolines (2,3,4-Pic) at 298 K using a Bruker 500 MHz NMR spectrometer and an Ubbelohde viscometer, respectively. Chemical shift d and linewidth D for the 63Cu signals have been recorded referenced to a 0:064M CuClO4 solution in anhydrous AN. The copper quadrupole coupling constants (e
2
Qq=h) have been calculated in all cases. The variation of the d and e
2
Qq=h values as a function of mol fraction of the co-solvent show that all these bases interact with Cu+ more strongly than AN. They replace AN from the Cu+ complexed with AN in the form [Cu(AN)4]+ and form a mixed complex of the type [Cu(AN)4-x(S)x]+ (x=1 - 4) where S stands for the base. At relatively high mole fraction of the co-solvents, the mixed solvated complex gradually changes to a more symmetrical complex of the type [Cu(S)4]+ which remains stable in the solution. The solvating effect of 2-Pic and 4-Pic is observed to be stronger than that of Py and 3-Pic.
Anomalous vessels over a trabeculectomy bleb in Sturge-Weber syndrome
Authors: Rao Aparna , Srinivasan Geetha , Gupta Viney
Published: May 2012

Trabeculectomy for treatment of glaucoma associated with Sturge-Weber syndrome has a poor success rate. We report the presence of anomalous vessels over the trabeculectomy bleb in a patient with Sturge-Weber syndrome after trabeculectomy combined with mitomycin.
Prolene monofilament suture in Boston Keratoprosthesis surgery
Authors: Kyrillos Ralph , Harissi-Dagher Mona
Published: May 2012

Toxic reaction to nylon following uncomplicated cataract surgery and vitrectomy has been documented in the literature. We report the case of an aniridic patient with a known adverse reaction to nylon in whom Prolene suture was used in Boston Keratoprosthesis type 1 (KPro) surgery. During follow-up the cornea was checked for signs of inflammation and toxic reaction; at last follow-up (18 months) the patient showed no signs of complications due to Prolene. Our study suggests that Prolene suture may be used as an alternative to nylon in Boston KPro surgery in patients with a history of nylon toxicity.
Perioperative spontaneous bilateral suprachoroidal hemorrhage
Authors: Haridas Anjana , Litwin Andre S. , Coker Timothy
Published: May 2012

Suprachoroidal hemorrhage is a rare condition, occurring most commonly in the perioperative period, although cases of unilateral spontaneous hemorrhages have been reported. We report a case of bilateral spontaneous suprachoroidal hemorrhage and discuss the potential causative factors.