bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Solid phase extraction using molecular imprinting polymers (MISPE) for the determination of estrogens in surface water by HPLC
Authors: Bianchi Viviane Do Nascimento , Araujo Silva Marcos Roberto de , Lamim Marcus Augusto , Da Silva Clovis Lucio , De Lima Elizabete Campos
Published: May 2017

Estrogens are emerging pollutants and traditional sewage treatments unable to remove them. They are harmful to human health and to the environment. It is therefore important to evaluate the presence and concentration of estrogens in water bodies and environmental matrices. This work presents the development and application of a methodology for the determination of E1, E3, EE2 and E2 in surface waters using solid phase extraction with molecular imprinting polymers (MISPE) followed by identification and quantification by HPLC-DAD. Acetonitrile and water deionized acidified with phosphoric acid pH 3 (1:1, v/v), a flow rate of 1.0 ml min-1, at 40°C and an injection volume of 5 µL. The method was validated according to the protocol ICH Q2R. Reproducibility and repeatability tests resulted in a smaller variation coefficient of 10%; the calibration curves in the concentration ranged from 1 to 20 mg L-1, with return linearity values greater than 0.99. The limits of detection and quantification were less than 1 mg L-1 and the method was satisfactory for specificity and selectivity tests using caffeine, which is often found in water bodies receiving effluent, and DES, an estrogen used in the treatment of prostate cancer. Selected samples underwent clean-up and pre-concentration treatments using solid phase extraction with commercial phase (C18) and molecularly imprinted polymers (MISPE). The analysis of MISPE extracts indicate that it is possible to obtain results with greater sensitivity and precision for analyses of complex environmental matrices, demonstrating that the developed method can be applied in complex environmental matrices.
An Inverse Source Non-local Problem for a Mixed Type Equation with a Caputo Fractional Differential Operator
Authors: Karimov E. , Al-Salti N. , Kerbal S.
Published: May 2017

We consider the unique solvability of an inverse-source problem with integral transmitting condition for a time-fractional mixed type equation in rectangular domain where the unknown source term depends only on the space variable. The solution is based on a series expansion using a bi-orthogonal basis in space, corresponding to a non-self-adjoint boundary value problem. Under certain regularity conditions on the given data, we prove the uniqueness and existence of the solution for the given problem. The influence of the transmitting condition on the solvability of the problem is also demonstrated. Two different transmitting conditions are considered — viz. a full integral form and a special case. In order to simplify the bulky expressions appearing in the proof of our main result, we establish a new property of the recently introduced Mittag-Leffler type function in two variables.
Modulus-based Synchronous Multisplitting Iteration Methods for an Implicit Complementarity Problem
Authors: Li Chen-Liang , Hong Jun-Tao
Published: May 2017

We construct modulus-based synchronous multisplitting iteration methods to solve a large implicit complementarity problem on parallel multiprocessor systems, and prove their convergence. Numerical results confirm our theoretical analysis and show that these new methods are efficient.
Burden and Seasonality of Viral Acute Respiratory Tract Infections among Outpatients in Southern Sri Lanka
Authors: Shapiro David , Bodinayake Champica K. , Nagahawatte Ajith , Devasiri Vasantha , Kurukulasooriya Ruvini , Hsiang Jeremy , Nicholson Bradley , De Silva Aruna Dharshan , Østbye Truls , Reller Megan E. , Woods Christopher W. , Tillekeratne L. Gayani
Published: May 2017

In tropical and subtropical settings, the epidemiology of viral acute respiratory tract infections varies widely between countries. We determined the etiology, seasonality, and clinical presentation of viral acute respiratory tract infections among outpatients in southern Sri Lanka. From March 2013 to January 2015, we enrolled outpatients presenting with influenza-like illness (ILI). Nasal/nasopharyngeal samples were tested in duplicate using antigen-based rapid influenza testing and multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for respiratory viruses. Monthly proportion positive was calculated for each virus. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression were used to identify associations between sociodemographic/clinical information and viral detection. Of 571 subjects, most (470, 82.3%) were ≥ 5 years of age and 53.1% were male. A respiratory virus was detected by PCR in 63.6% (N = 363). Common viral etiologies included influenza (223, 39%), human enterovirus/rhinovirus (HEV/HRV, 14.5%), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV, 4.2%), and human metapneumovirus (hMPV, 3.9%). Both ILI and influenza showed clear seasonal variation, with peaks from March to June each year. RSV and hMPV activity peaked from May to July, whereas HEV/HRV was seen year-round. Patients with respiratory viruses detected were more likely to report pain with breathing (odds ratio [OR] = 2.60, P = 0.003), anorexia (OR = 2.29, P < 0.001), and fatigue (OR = 2.00, P = 0.002) compared with patients with no respiratory viruses detected. ILI showed clear seasonal variation in southern Sri Lanka, with most activity during March to June; peak activity was largely due to influenza. Targeted infection prevention activities such as influenza vaccination in January–February may have a large public health impact in this region.
Knowledge and Prevention Practices among U.S. Pregnant Immigrants from Zika Virus Outbreak Areas
Authors: Berenson Abbey B. , Trinh Ha N. , Hirth Jacqueline M. , Guo Fangjian , Fuchs Erika L. , Weaver Scott C.
Published: May 2017

We administered an anonymous survey to assess knowledge, attitudes, and prevention practices related to the Zika virus among pregnant women residing in Texas. Multivariate logistic regression models controlling for age, race/ethnicity, education, and number of years in the United States assessed differences between women born in outbreak areas (N = 390) versus those born in the United States (N = 249). Results demonstrated that most women wanted more information on the Zika virus and desired to obtain it from their physician. The majority did not know that the Zika virus could be spread through sex with an asymptomatic partner or how often those infected were symptomatic. Few women took precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Only 40% reported frequently using repellent; 21% stated that cost was problematic and almost half were concerned about use during pregnancy. Three-fourths stated they would agree to vaccination, if available. Compared with U.S.-born women, those born in outbreak areas were more likely to have already discussed the Zika virus with their doctor (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.86, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.27, 2.71) and identify microcephaly as the most common birth defect (aOR = 2.59, 95% CI = 1.78, 3.76). Moreover, women born in outbreak areas were less likely to desire to keep it a secret if they became infected (aOR = 0.47, 95% CI = 0.31, 0.71). This study found that, regardless of birthplace, pregnant women need more education on the Zika virus disease and assurance regarding the safety of using repellent during pregnancy. They also need financial assistance for repellent, especially if living in states where transmission by mosquitos has been reported.
Rift Valley Fever Seroprevalence in Coastal Kenya
Authors: Grossi-Soyster Elysse N. , Banda Tamara , Teng Crystal Y. , Muchiri Eric M. , Mungai Peter L. , Mutuku Francis M. , Gildengorin Ginny , Kitron Uriel , King Charles H. , Desiree Labeaud A.
Published: May 2017

Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) causes severe disease in both animals and humans, resulting in significant economic and public health damages. The objective of this study was to measure RVFV seroprevalence in six coastal Kenyan villages between 2009 and 2011, and characterize individual-, household-, and community-level risk factors for prior RVFV exposure. Sera were tested for anti-RVFV IgG via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Overall, 51 (1.8%; confidence interval [CI95] 1.3–2.3) of 2,871 samples were seropositive for RVFV. Seroprevalence differed significantly among villages, and was highest in Jego Village (18/300; 6.0%; CI95 3.6–9.3) and lowest in Magodzoni (0/248). Adults were more likely to be seropositive than children (P < 0.001). Seropositive subjects were less likely to own land or a motor vehicle (P < 0.01), suggesting exposure is associated with lower socioeconomic standing (P = 0.03). RVFV exposure appears to be low in coastal Kenya, although with some variability among villages.
The Cuba–United States Thaw: Building Bridges Through Science and Global Health
Authors: Bausch Daniel G. , Kouri Vivian , Resik Sonia , Acosta Belsy , Guillen Gerardo , Goraleski Karen , Espinal Marcos , Guzman Maria G.
Published: May 2017

Beginning in 2014, there has been significant progress in normalization of relations between Cuba and the United States. Herein, we discuss the history and recent progress in scientific collaboration between the two countries as well as the continued challenges. Science and global health diplomacy can be key tools in reestablishing a trusting and productive relationship of mutual and global benefit, bringing about better and healthier lives for people in both Cuba and the United States.
Summertime observations of elevated levels of ultrafine particles in the high Arctic marine boundary layer
Authors: Burkart Julia , Willis Megan D. , Bozem Heiko , Thomas Jennie L. , Law Kathy , Hoor Peter , Aliabadi Amir A. , Köllner Franziska , Schneider Johannes , Herber Andreas , Abbatt Jonathan P. D. , Leaitch W. Richard
Published: May 2017

Abstract. Motivated by increasing levels of open ocean in the Arctic summer and the lack of prior altitude-resolved studies, extensive aerosol measurements were made during 11 flights of the NETCARE July 2014 airborne campaign from Resolute Bay, Nunavut. Flights included vertical profiles (60 to 3000 m above ground level) over open ocean, fast ice, and boundary layer clouds and fogs. A general conclusion, from observations of particle numbers between 5 and 20 nm in diameter (N5 − 20), is that ultrafine particle formation occurs readily in the Canadian high Arctic marine boundary layer, especially just above ocean and clouds, reaching values of a few thousand particles cm−3. By contrast, ultrafine particle concentrations are much lower in the free troposphere. Elevated levels of larger particles (for example, from 20 to 40 nm in size, N20 − 40) are sometimes associated with high N5 − 20, especially over low clouds, suggestive of aerosol growth. The number densities of particles greater than 40 nm in diameter (N >  40) are relatively depleted at the lowest altitudes, indicative of depositional processes that will lower the condensation sink and promote new particle formation. The number of cloud condensation nuclei (CCN; measured at 0.6 % supersaturation) are positively correlated with the numbers of small particles (down to roughly 30 nm), indicating that some fraction of these newly formed particles are capable of being involved in cloud activation. Given that the summertime marine Arctic is a biologically active region, it is important to better establish the links between emissions from the ocean and the formation and growth of ultrafine particles within this rapidly changing environment.
Potential Influences of Neglecting Aerosol Effects on the NCEP GFS Precipitation Forecast
Authors: Jiang Mengjiao , Feng Jinqin , Sun Ruiyu , Li Zhanqing , Wan Bingcheng , Cribb Maureen
Published: May 2017

Abstract. Aerosol-cloud interactions (ACI) have been widely recognized as a factor affecting precipitation. However, they have not been considered in the operational National Centers for Environmental Predictions Global Forecast System model. We evaluated the potential impact of neglecting ACI on the operational rainfall forecast using ground-based and satellite observations, and model reanalysis. The Climate Prediction Center unified gauge-based precipitation analysis and the Modern-Era Retrospective analysis for Research and Applications, Version 2 aerosol reanalysis were used to evaluate the forecast in three countries for the year 2015. The overestimation of light rain (47.84 %) and underestimation of heavier rain (31.83 %, 52.94 %, and 65.74 % for moderate rain, heavy rain, and very heavy rain, respectively) from the model are qualitatively consistent with the potential errors arising from not accounting for ACI, although other factors cannot be totally ruled out. The standard deviation of the forecast bias is significantly correlated with aerosol optical depth in Australia, the U.S., and China. To gain further insight, we chose the province of Fujian in China to pursue a more insightful investigation using a suite of variables from gauge-based observations of precipitation, visibility, water vapor, convective available potential energy (CAPE), and satellite datasets. Similar forecast biases were found: over-forecasted light rain and under-forecasted heavy rain. Long-term analyses reveal an increasing trend of heavy rain in summer, and a decreasing trend of light rain in other seasons, accompanied by a decreasing trend in visibility, no trend in water vapor, and a slight increasing trend in summertime CAPE. More aerosols decreased cloud effective radii for cases where the liquid water path was greater than 100 g m−2. All findings are consistent with the effects of ACI, i.e., where aerosols inhibit the development of shallow liquid clouds and invigorate warm-base mixed-phase clouds (especially in summertime), which in turn affects precipitation. While we cannot establish rigorous causal relations based on the analyses presented in this study, the significant rainfall forecast bias seen in operational weather forecast model simulations warrants consideration in future model improvements.
Assessment of co-benefits of black carbon emission reduction measures in Southeast Asia: Part 1 emission inventory and simulation for the base year 2007
Authors: Permadi Didin Agustian , Kim Oanh Nguyen Thi , Vautard Robert
Published: May 2017

Abstract. This research assessed the potential co-benefits associated with selected black carbon (BC) emission reduction measures on mitigation of air pollution and climate forcing in Southeast Asia (SEA). This paper presents Part 1 of the research with details on the emission inventory (EI) results and the WRF/CHIMERE model performance evaluation. The SEA regional emissions for 2007 were updated with our EI results for Indonesia, Thailand and Cambodia and used for the model input. WRF/CHIMERE simulated PM10, PM2.5 and BC over the SEA domain (0.25º x 0.25º) of the year 2007 and the results were evaluated against the available monitoring data in the domain. WRF hourly simulation results were evaluated using the observed data at 8 international airport stations in 5 SEA countries and showed a satisfactory performance. WRF/CHIMERE results for PM10 and PM2.5 showed strong seasonal influence of biomass open burning while BC distribution showed the influence of urban activities in big SEA cities. Daily average PM10 constructed from the hourly concentrations were obtained from the automatic monitoring stations in three SEA large cities, i.e. Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Surabaya for model evaluation. The daily observed PM2.5 and BC concentrations obtained from the Improving Air Quality in the Asian Developing Countries (AIRPET) project for 4 cities (i.e. Bangkok, Hanoi, Bandung, and Manila) were also used for model evaluation. In addition, hourly BC concentrations were taken from the measurement results of the Asian Pacific Network (APN) project at a sub-urban site in Bangkok. The modeled PM10 and BC satisfactorily met all suggested statistical criteria for PM evaluation. The modeled PM2.5/PM10 ratios estimated for four AIRPET sites ranged between 0.47–0.59, lower than observed values of 0.6–0.83. Better agreement was found for BC/PM2.5 ratios with the modeled values of 0.05–0.33 as compared to the observation values of 0.05–0.28. AODEM (extended aerosol optical depth module) was used to calculate the total columnar aerosol optical depth (AOD) and BC AOD using the internal mixing assumption. The model AOD results were evaluated against the observed AOD by both AERONET and MODIS satellite in 10 countries in the domain. Our model results showed that the BC AOD contributed 7.5–12 % of the total AOD, which was in the same ranges reported by other studies for places with intensive emissions. The Part 1 results (this study) is used in Part 2 (Permadi et al., 2017a) which calculates the regional aerosol direct radiative forcing under different emission reduction scenarios to explore potential co-benefits for air quality improvement, reduction in number of premature deaths and climate forcing mitigation in SEA in 2030.
A new multi-component heterogeneous ice nucleation model and its application to
Snomax bacterial particles and a Snomax-illte mineral particle mixture
Authors: Beydoun Hassan , Polen Michael , Sullivan Ryan C.
Published: May 2017

Abstract. Some biological particles, such as Snomax, are very active ice nucleating particles, inducing heterogeneous freezing in supercooled water at temperatures above −15° C and up to −2° C. Despite their exceptional freezing abilities, large uncertainties remain regarding the atmospheric abundance of biological ice nucleating particles, and their contribution to atmospheric ice nucleation. It has been suggested that small biological ice nucleating macromolecules or fragments can be carried on the surfaces of dust and other atmospheric particles. This could combine the atmospheric abundance of dust particles with the ice nucleating strength of biological material to create strongly enhanced and abundant ice nucleating surfaces in the atmosphere, with significant implications for the budget and distribution of atmospheric ice nucleating particles, and their consequent effects on cloud microphysics and mixed-phase clouds. The new critical surface area “g” framework that was developed by Beydoun et al. (2016), is extended to produce a heterogeneous ice nucleation mixing model that can predict the freezing behavior of multi-component particle surfaces immersed in droplets. The model successfully predicts the immersion freezing properties of droplets containing Snomax bacterial particles across a mass concentration range of seven orders of magnitude, by treating Snomax as comprised of two distinct distributions of heterogeneous ice nucleating activity. Furthermore, the model successfully predicts the immersion freezing behavior of a low concentration mixture of Snomax and illite mineral particles, a proxy for the biological-dust mixtures observed in atmospheric aerosols. It is shown that even at very low Snomax concentrations in the mixture, droplet freezing at higher temperatures is still determined solely by the second less active and more abundant distribution of heterogeneous ice nucleating activity of Snomax, while freezing at lower temperatures is determined solely by the heterogeneous ice nucleating activity of pure illite. This demonstrates that in this proxy system, biological ice nucleating particles do not compromise their ice nucleating activity upon mixing with dust and no new range of intermediary freezing temperatures associated with the mixture of ice nucleating particles of differing activities is produced. The study is the first to directly examine the freezing behavior of a mixture of Snomax and illite and presents the first multi-component ice nucleation model experimentally evaluated using a wide range of ice nucleating particle concentration mixtures in droplets.
LES study of microphysical variability bias in shallow cumulus
Authors: Kogan Yefim
Published: May 2017

Abstract. Subgrid-scale (SGS) variability of cloud microphysical variables over the mesoscale numerical weather prediction (NWP) model has been evaluated by means of joint probability distribution functions (JPDFs). The latter were obtained using dynamically balanced Large Eddy Simulation (LES) model dataset from a case of marine trade cumulus initialized with soundings from Rain in Cumulus Over the Ocean (RICO) field project. Bias in autoconversion and accretion rates from different formulations of the JPDFs was analyzed. Approximating the 2-D PDF using a generic (fixed-in-time), but variable-in-height JPDFs give an acceptable level of accuracy, whereas neglecting the SGS variability altogether results in a substantial underestimate of the grid-mean total conversion rate and producing negative bias in rain water. Nevertheless the total effect on rain formation may be uncertain in the long run due to the fact that the negative bias in rain water may be counterbalanced by the positive bias in cloud water. Consequently, the overall effect of SGS neglect needs to be investigated in direct simulations with a NWP model.
Intensification and deepening of the Arabian Sea Oxygen Minimum
Zone in response to increase in Indian monsoon wind intensity
Authors: Lachkar Zouhair , Lévy Marina , Smith Shafer
Published: May 2017

Abstract. The decline in oxygen supply to the ocean associated with global warming is expected to expand oxygen minimum zones (OMZs). This global trend can be attenuated or amplified by regional processes. In the Arabian Sea, the World’s thickest OMZ is highly vulnerable to changes in the Indian monsoon wind. Evidence from paleo records and future climate projections indicate strong variations of the Indian monsoon wind intensity over climatic timescales. Yet, the response of the OMZ to these wind changes remains poorly understood and its amplitude and timescale unexplored. Here, we investigate the impacts of perturbations in Indian monsoon wind intensity (from −50 % to +50 %) on the size and intensity of the Arabian Sea OMZ, and examine the biogeochemical and ecological implications of these changes. To this end, we conducted a series of eddy-resolving simulations of the Arabian Sea using the Regional Oceanic Modeling System (ROMS) coupled to a nitrogen based Nutrient-Phytoplankton-Zooplankton-Detritus (NPZD) ecosystem model that includes a representation of the O2 cycle. We show that the Arabian Sea productivity increases and its OMZ expands and deepens in response to monsoon wind intensification. These responses are dominated by the perturbation of the summer monsoon wind, whereas the changes in the winter monsoon wind play a secondary role. While the productivity responds quickly and nearly linearly to wind increase (i.e., on a timescale of years), the OMZ response is much slower (i.e., a timescale of decades). Our analysis reveals that the OMZ expansion at depth is driven by increased oxygen biological consumption, whereas its surface weakening is induced by increased ventilation. The enhanced ventilation favors episodic intrusions of oxic waters in the lower epipelagic zone (100–200 m) of the western and central Arabian Sea, leading to intermittent expansions of marine habitats and a more frequent alternation of hypoxic and oxic conditions there. The increased productivity and deepening of the OMZ also lead to a strong intensification of denitrification at depth, resulting in a substantial amplification of fixed nitrogen depletion in the Arabian Sea. We conclude that changes in the Indian monsoon can affect, on longer timescales, the large-scale biogeochemical cycles of nitrogen and carbon, with a positive feedback on climate change in the case of stronger winds.
Modeling particle transport and discoloration risk in drinking water distribution networks
Authors: van Summeren Joost , Blokker Mirjam
Published: May 2017

Abstract. Discoloration of drinking water is a worldwide phenomenon caused by accumulation and subsequent remobilization of particulate matter in distribution systems (DWDSs). It contributes to a substantial fraction of customer complaints to water utilities. Accurate discoloration risk predictions could improve system operation by allowing for more effective programs on cleaning and prevention actions and field measurements, but are challenged by incomplete understanding on the origins and properties of particles and a complex and not fully understood interplay of processes in distribution networks. In this paper, we assess and describe relevant hydraulic processes that govern particle transport in turbulent pipe flow, including gravitational settling, bed-load transport, and particle entrainment into suspension. We assess which transport mechanisms are dominant for a range of bulk flow velocities, particle diameters, and particle mass densities, which includes common conditions for DWDS in The Netherlands, U.K., and Australia. Our analysis shows that the theoretically predicted particle settling velocity and threshold shear stresses for incipient particle motion are in the same range, but more variable than, previous estimates from lab experiments, field measurements, and modeling. The presented material will be used in the future development of a numerical modeling tool to determine and predict the spatial distribution of particulate material and discoloration risk in DWDSs. Our approach is aimed at understanding specific causalities and processes, which can complement data-driven approaches.
At-site and regional frequency analysis of extreme precipitation
from radar-based estimates
Authors: Goudenhoofdt Edouard , Delobbe Laurent , Willems Patrick
Published: May 2017

Abstract. In Belgium, only rain gauge time-series have been used so far to study extreme precipitation at a given location. In this paper, the potential of a 12-year quantitative precipitation estimation (QPE) from a single weather radar is evaluated. For the period 2005–2016, independent sliding 1 h and 24 h rainfall extremes from automatic rain gauges and collocated radar estimates are compared. The extremes are fitted to the exponential distribution using regression in QQ-plots with a threshold rank which minimises the mean squared error. A basic radar product used as reference exhibits unrealistic high extremes and is not suitable for extreme value analysis. For 24 h rainfall extremes, which occur partly in winter, the radar-based QPE needs a bias correction. A few missing events are caused by the wind drift of convective cells and strong radar signal attenuation. Differences between radar and gauge values are caused by spatial and temporal sampling, gauge rainfall underestimations and radar errors due to the relation between reflectivity and rain rate. Nonetheless the fit to the QPE data is within the confidence interval of the gauge fit, which remains large due to the short study period. A regional frequency analysis is performed on radar data within 20 km of the locations of 4 rain gauges with records from 1965 to 2008. Assuming that the extremes are correlated within the region, the fit to the two closest rain gauge data is within the confidence interval of the radar fit, which is small due to the sample size. In Brussels, the extremes on the period 1965–2008 from a rain gauge are significantly lower than the extremes from an automatic gauge and the radar on the period 2005–2016. For 1 h duration, the location parameter varies slightly with topography and the scale parameter exhibits some variations from region to region. The radar-based extreme value analysis can be extended to other durations.
Liquid water infiltration into a layered snowpack: evaluation of a 3D water transport model with laboratory experiments
Authors: Hirashima Hiroyuki , Avanzi Francesco , Yamaguchi Satoru
Published: May 2017

Abstract. The heterogeneous movement of liquid water through snowpack during precipitation and snowmelt leads to complex liquid water distributions that are important for avalanche and runoff forecasting. We reproduced the formation of capillary barriers and the development of preferential flow through snow using a multi-dimensional water transport model, which was then validated using laboratory experiments of liquid water infiltration into layered, initially dry snow. Three-dimensional simulations assumed the same column shape and size, grain size, snow density, and water input rate as the laboratory experiments. Model evaluation focused on the timing of water movement, the thickness of the upper layer affected by ponding, and on water content profiles and the wet snow fraction. Simulation results showed that the model reconstructs some relevant features of capillary barriers including ponding in the upper layer, preferential infiltration far from the interface, and the timing of liquid water arrival at the snow base. In contrast, the area of preferential flow paths was usually underestimated and consequently the averaged water content in areas characterized by preferential flow paths was also underestimated. Improving the representation of water preferential infiltration into initially dry snow is necessary to reproduce the transition from a dry-snow-dominant condition to a wet-snow-dominant one, especially in long-period simulations.
Climatic controls on watershed reference evapotranspiration vary dramatically during the past 50 years in southern China
Authors: Qin Mengsheng , Hao Lu , Sun Lei , Liu Yongqiang , Sun Ge
Published: May 2017

Abstract. Reference evapotranspiration (ETo) is an important hydrometeorological term widely used in water resource management, hydrological modeling, and understanding and projecting the hydrological effects of future climate change and land use change. Identifying the individual climatic controls on ETo helps better understand the processes of global climatic change impacts on local water resources and also simplify modeling efforts to predict actual evapotranspiration. We conducted a case study on the Qinhuai River Basin (QRB), a watershed dominated by a humid subtropical climate and mixed land uses in southern China. Long term (1961–2012) daily meteorological data at six weather stations across the watershed were used to estimate ETo by the FAO-56 Penman−Monteith model. The seasonal and annual trends of ETo were examined using the Mann−Kendall nonparametric test. The individual contributions from each meteorological variable were quantified by a detrending method. The results showed that basin-wide annual ETo had a decreasing trend during 1961–1987 due to decreased wind speed (WS), solar radiation (Rs), vapor pressure deficit (VPD), and increased relative humidity (RH). These variables had different magnitudes of contribution to the ETo trend in different seasons examined during 1961−1987. However, during 1988–2012, both seasonal and annual ETo showed an increasing trend, mainly due to increased VPD and decreased RH and, to lesser extent, to decreased absolute humidity (AH) and a rising air temperature. We show that the key climatic controls on ETo have dramatically shifted as a result of global climate change during the past five decades. Now the atmospheric demand, instead of air temperature alone, is a major control on ETo. Thus, we conclude that accurately predicting current and future ETo and hydrological change under a changing climate must consider changes in VPD (i.e., air humidity and temperature) in the study region. Water resource management in the study basin must consider the increasing trend of ETo to meet the associated increasing water demand for irrigation agriculture and domestic water uses.
Variation of soil hydraulic properties with alpine grassland degradation in the eastern Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Pan Tao , Hou Shuai , Wu Shaohong , Liu Yujie , Liu Yanhua , Zou Xintong , Herzberger Anna , Liu Jianguo
Published: May 2017

Abstract. Ecosystems in alpine mountainous regions are vulnerable and easily disturbed by global environmental change. Alpine swamp meadow, a unique grassland type in the eastern Tibetan Plateau that provides important ecosystem services to the upstream and downstream regions of international rivers of Asia and other parts of the world, is undergoing severe degradation, which can dramatically alter soil hydraulic properties and water cycling processes. However, the effects of alpine swamp meadow degradation on soil hydraulic properties and the corresponding influencing mechanisms are still poorly understood. In this study, soil moisture content (SMC), field capacity (FC) and saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ks) together with several basic soil properties under lightly degraded (LD), moderately degraded (MD) and severely degraded (SD) alpine swamp meadow were investigated; the variations in SMC, FC and Ks with alpine swamp meadow degradation and their dominant influencing factors were analysed. The results showed that SMC and FC decreased consistently from LD to SD, while Ks decreased from LD to MD and then increased from MD to SD, following the order of LD  >  SD  >  MD. Significant differences in soil hydraulic properties between degradation degrees were found in the upper soil layers (0–20 cm), indicating that the influences of degradation were most pronounced in the topsoils. FC was positively correlated with capillary porosity, water-stable aggregates, soil organic carbon, and silt and clay content; Ks was positively correlated with non-capillary porosity (NCP). Relative to other soil properties, soil porosity is the dominant factor influencing FC and Ks. Capillary porosity explained 91.1 % of total variance in FC, and NCP explained 97.3 % of total variance in Ks. The combined effect of disappearing root activities and increasing sand content was responsible for the inconsistent patterns of NCP and Ks. Our findings suggest that alpine swamp meadow degradation would inevitably lead to reduced water holding capacity and rainfall infiltration. This study provides a more comprehensive understanding of the soil hydrological effects of vegetation degradation. Further hydrological modelling studies in the Tibetan Plateau and similar regions are recommended to understand the effects of degraded alpine swamp meadows on soil hydraulic properties.
H2S dosimeter with controllable percolation threshold based on semi-conducting copper oxide thin films
Authors: Seitz Christoph , Beck Giuliana , Hennemann Jörg , Kandzia Christian , Hering Karl P. , Polity Angelika , Klar Peter J. , Paul Andrej , Wagner Thorsten , Russ Stefanie , Smarsly Bernd M.
Published: May 2017

Abstract. Copper oxides, such as CuO and Cu2O, are promising materials for H2S detection because of the reversible reaction with H2S to copper sulfides (CuS, Cu2S). Along with the phase change, the electrical conductance increases by several orders of magnitude. On CuOx films the H2S reaction causes the formation of statistically distributed CuxS islands. Continuous exposition to H2S leads to island growth and eventually to the formation of an electrical highly conductive path traversing the entire system: the so-called percolation path. The associated CuOx ∕ CuxS conversion ratio is referred to as the percolation threshold. This pronounced threshold causes a gas concentration dependent switch-like behaviour of the film conductance. However, to utilize this effect for the preparation of CuO-based H2S sensors, a profound understanding of the operational and morphological parameters influencing the CuS path evolution is needed.Thus, this article is focused on basic features of H2S detection by copper oxide films and the influence of structural parameters on the percolation threshold and switching behaviour. In particular, two important factors, namely the stoichiometry of copper oxides (CuO, Cu2O and Cu4O3) and surface morphology, are investigated in detail. CuOx thin films were synthesized by a radio frequency magnetron sputtering process which allows modification of these parameters. It could be shown that, for instance, the impact on the switching behaviour is dominated by morphology rather than stoichiometry of copper oxide.
Friction torque of wind-turbine pitch bearings – comparison of
experimental results with available models
Authors: Stammler Matthias , Schwack Fabian , Bader Norbert , Reuter Andreas , Poll Gerhard
Published: May 2017

Abstract. Pitch bearings of wind turbines are large, grease-lubricated rolling bearings that connect the rotor blades with the rotor hub. They are used to turn the rotor blades to control the power output and/or structural loads of the turbine. Common actuators turning the blades are hydraulic cylinders or electrical motor / gearbox combinations. In order to design pitch actuator systems that are able to turn the blades reliably without imposing an excessive power demand, it is necessary to predict the friction torque of pitch bearings for different operating conditions. In this paper, the results of torque measurements under load are presented and compared to results obtained using different calculation models. The results of this comparison indicate the various sources of friction that should be taken into account for a reliable calculation model.
HORIZONS FOR DESIGN OF FILLED RUBBER INFORMED BY MOLECULAR DYNAMICS SIMULATION
Authors: Smith Scott M. , Simmons David S.
Published: May 2017

Fillers such as carbon black provide a long-standing and essential strategy for the mechanical reinforcement of rubber in tires and other load-bearing applications. Despite their technological importance, however, the microscopic mechanism of this reinforcement remains a matter of considerable debate. A predictive understanding of filler-based reinforcement could catalyze the design of new rubber-filler composites with enhanced performance. Molecular dynamics simulations of rubber mechanical response in the presence of structured fillers offer a new strategy for resolving the origins of filler-based reinforcement and guiding filler design. Results of for ideal rubber-filler dispersions over a range of filler structures suggest that neither hydrodynamic effects nor non-deformable “bound rubber domains” are necessary to achieve high reinforcement. Moreover, simulations show that particle surface area is a poor predictor of reinforcement. Instead, simulated reinforcement correlates strongly with filler structure, with more rarified filler structure predicting much greater reinforcement at fixed loading. Simulation results are consistent with a scenario in which reinforcement at industrially relevant loadings is dominated by formation of a jammed network of filler particles, suggesting that reinforced rubber can be understood as a superposition of two materials: a rubbery solid, and a jammed granular solid. This perspective points to an opportunity to improve filler-reinforced rubber design by leveraging concepts and expertise developed over many decades in the fields of jamming and granular media.
EFFECT OF STEREOCHEMISTRY IN ANIONIC POLYMERIZATION MODIFIERS
Authors: Hogan Terrence E. , Kiridena Waruna , Kocsis Laura
Published: May 2017

The influence of stereochemistry of polar modifiers on the microstructure of polybutadiene and poly(styrene-co-butadiene) was evaluated for 2,2′-ditetrahydrofurylpropane (DTHFP). The meso and d,l diastereomers were isolated from commercial 50/50 mixtures through column chromatography and characterized by 1H-NMR and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. The meso-DTHFP was found to be more active than d,l-DTHFP in incorporation of vinyl during anionic polymerization. To form a polymer with approximately 55% vinyl, twice the amount of d,l-DTHFP was required compared with using pure meso-DTHFP. The mechanism for this effect will be discussed.
Uso irracional dos anti-inflamatórios não esteroidais no município de Tijucas do Sul
Authors: RANKEL Sibely Aparecida Oliveira , SATO Marcelo Del Olmo , SANTIAGO Ronise Martins
Published: May 2017

Os anti-inflamatórios não-esteroidais (AINEs), são amplamente utilizados para tratar a dor aguda e crônica pois possuem além das propriedades anti-inflamatória, as propriedades analgésica e antipirética, devido a inibição da síntese das prostaglandinas, através da inibição das enzimas Ciclo-oxigenase. A maioria desses medicamentos são de venda livre, facilitando seu acesso à população que os utilizam muitas vezes de maneira irracional, podendo trazer consequências à médio e longo prazo. Os AINEs causam reações adversas devido a sua toxicidade sobre vários sistemas, entre os efeitos mais importantes estão os danos gastrointestinais, que podem ir do desconforto abdominal até a erosão da mucosa, podendo levar ao sangramento e perfuração. Deste modo, o objetivo deste trabalho foi realizar um levantamento sobre a utilização de anti-inflamatórios entre habitantes do município de Tijucas do Sul, região metropolitana de Curitiba. A população estudada foi composta por indivíduos, com idade acima de 18 anos, que aceitaram participar voluntariamente da pesquisa. Estes responderam um questionário sobre o tema estudado. Analisando os dados foi possível identificar que 75% usam raramente o anti-inflamatório sendo e que 14% usam diariamente. A maior utilização de anti-inflamatórios está nas dores musculares com 29% e dor de cabeça 27%. Em relação as reações adversas 59% relataram sentir dores de estômago e 49% dos entrevistados usam por conta própria. Podemos concluir que estes medicamentos são utilizados de forma irracional e são responsáveis por desconforto gástrico na maioria dos usuários.
A EXPERIÊNCIA DA CONSTRUÇÃO DE UM PLANO OPERATIVO PARA O SETOR DE DEMANDA JUDICIAL NA SECRETARIA DE SAÚDE DO ESTADO DO PARANÁ
Authors: IMAZU P. , OLIVEIRA F. W. , CZEPULA A. , STRAPASSON G. C.
Published: May 2017

Com o aumento da demanda judicial para fornecimento de medicamentos na Secretaria de Estado de Saúde do Paraná, a gestão do setor responsável tem se apresentado cada vez mais complexa. A ausência de legislação que regulamente parte da Assistência Farmacêutica (AF) dificulta mais a sua organização. Para enfrentamento dessas dificuldades foi elaborado um planejamento estratégico situacional (PES), conforme os fundamentos de Carlos Matus, seu idealizador. Este artigo relata uma experiência de elaboração de um plano operativo com quatro momentos, a saber: explicativo, normativo, estratégico e tático-operacional. No momento explicativo foi possível identificar os problemas com maior magnitude, transcendência, vulnerabilidade, urgência e factibilidade. Assim obteve-se por pontuação o problema a ser priorizado e estudado. As ações a serem realizadas para sua superação foram elencadas no momento normativo. No momento estratégico foi analisada a viabilidade e factibilidade de cada ação e atribuída atividade estratégica para aquelas que possuíam déficit. No momento tático-operacional foi elaborado o protocolo de avaliação, com indicadores e fontes de verificação para os resultados das ações.  Por meio desse trabalho foi possível observar que o método de Carlos Matus é bem trabalhoso e exige bastante tempo para sua elaboração. Destacam-se como aspectos favoráveis: o foco a ser definido, o qual deve ser estudado antes do inicio do projeto, considerando o seu centralizador e o impacto que se almeja nas ações a serem realizadas; e a participação de atores internos e externos, que possibilitam o envolvimento direto de todos com o problema.
CONHECIMENTO DE USUÁRIAS DE ANTICONCEPCIONAIS ORAIS ACERCA DE HÁBITOS E INTERAÇÕES MEDICAMENTOSAS EM UMA UNIDADE BÁSICA DE SAÚDE
Authors: BRANDT Gabriela Pinheiro , RODRIGUES Ana Paula , BURCI Lígia Moura
Published: May 2017

Trata-se de um estudo exploratório com o objetivo de identificar o conhecimento de usuárias de pílula anticoncepcional oral acerca de hábitos e interações medicamentos que possam comprometer o efeito contraceptivo. Foram aplicados 21 questionários em usuárias atendidas na Unidade Básica de Saúde Vila Guaíra, na cidade de Curitiba. Dentre as usuárias 47,6% apresentam idade entre 25 e 35 anos, possui dois filhos, e 9,5% relatou não ingerir o medicamento corretamente todos os dias no mesmo horário, ingerindo o mesmo apenas quando lembra. Em relação ao conhecimento da associação com antibióticos, 52,3% não utiliza método de barreira quando está em tratamento com esse tipo de medicação. Concluiu-se que o enfermeiro, a partir do conhecimento inerente de sua formação e atuação profissional pode contribuir com a orientação e encaminhamento adequado para cada método contraceptivo.
USO DE RASTREADORES PARA A IDENTIFICAÇÃO DE EVENTOS ADVERSOS A MEDICAMENTOS
Authors: Veroneze Cleni , Maluf Eliane Mara Cesário Pereira , Giordani Fabíola
Published: May 2017

É um desafio verificar se as estratégias voltadas para aumento da segurança no uso dos medicamentos são efetivas. Dessa maneira, mostra-se clara a necessidade de mecanismos para acompanhar estes resultados. A ferramenta “Global Trigger Tool for Measuring Adverse Events” do Institute for Healthcare Improvement foi desenvolvida para vencer este desafio. O uso de rastreadores para seleção de prontuários, com maior probabilidade de apresentarem eventos adversos, tem sido um método adotado por várias instituições de saúde, em vários países. O objetivo deste relato é descrever a experiência obtida na aplicação do módulo “Medicamento” desta ferramenta em um hospital público brasileiro no estado do Paraná. Realizada no período de novembro de 2012 a janeiro de 2015. A aplicação do método foi de baixo custo e viável para aplicação regular na Instituição.
PERFIL DOS CASOS NOTIFICADOS DE SÍFILIS CONGÊNITA
Authors: Moreira Kátia Fernanda Alves , De Oliveira Davisson Michetti , De Alencar Lucas Noronha , Cavalcante Daniela Ferreira Borba , Pinheiro Aldrin De Sousa , Orfão Nathalia Halax
Published: May 2017

Este estudo analisou a incidência de sífilis congênita, os exames para diagnóstico e tratamento fornecido aos recém-nascidos. Estudo epidemiológico descritivo, do tipo levantamento retrospectivo, com abordagem quantitativa. A coleta de dados foi realizada em dezembro de 2015 no Sistema de Informações e Agravos de Notificações, fornecido pelo Departamento de Vigilância Epidemiológica e Ambiental da Secretaria Municipal de Saúde de Porto Velho. A incidência de sífilis congênita foi crescente durante o período estudado (2009 a 2014) de 0,92 casos para 8,65/1.000 nascidos vivos. Em relação às gestantes, 157 (79,29%) realizaram o pré-natal, 119 (60,10%) foram diagnosticadas durante o pré-natal e 109 (55,1%) tratadas inadequadamente. Quanto aos recém-nascidos, 99 (50,00%) eram do sexo feminino, 126 (63,64%) pardas, 153 (77,27%) nasceram assintomáticas e 129 (65,15%) tratadas com penicilina G cristalina. Neste sentido, verificou-se que em Porto Velho há desafios quanto ao diagnóstico precoce e tratamento adequado das gestantes, parceiros e recém-nascidos.
Música, tecnologia e educação musical: a guitarra em foco
Authors: Vanzela Alexsander , Oliveira Leida Calegário de , Carvalho Marivaldo Aparecido de
Published: May 2017

A música é algo presente na vida da pessoas e sua divulgação feita através de vários meios, iniciou-se com discos (os chamados bolachões), fitas k-7, CD’s e atualmente em diversas mídias, faz com que o registro musical seja algo perpétuo. Nesse cenário musical, a guitarra elétrica é um instrumento que se destaca principalmente em bandas de rock’n roll e que possui amantes no mundo todo. O fato da guitarra elétrica ser um instrumento que chama a atenção, faz com que muitos indivíduos ingressem de alguma forma no estudo musical, se identificando nos mais variados estilos e buscando se igualar a seus ídolos musicais. Em meio a busca do saber musical, a sociedade disponibiliza ao indivíduo escolas de música, professores particulares e a internet como meios de propagação do ensino musical e de outros. Nesses estudos é comum verificar músicos passando técnicas do instrumento musical a qual procura o aprimoramento, teoria musical que nem sempre existe uma didática pelo fato que as matérias são vistas de forma ampla, podendo o indivíduo que busca o aprendizado, se perder a tantas informações lançadas na rede. A internet modificou radicalmente a vida da população mundial, após a segunda guerra o mundo teve acesso a inúmeras informações, serviços e vários profissionais, inclusive os músicos, utilizam deste mecanismo para sua divulgação. A educação musical utiliza como facilitador os meios tecnológicos para auxiliar o aprendiz em seus estudos, sejam eles teóricos ou práticos, tentando tornar as aulas de teoria musical mais agradáveis.