bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiple Sclerosis in Italy: A 40-Year Follow-Up of the Prevalence in Ferrara
Authors: Granieri Enrico , De Mattia Giulia , Laudisi Michele , Govoni Vittorio , Castellazzi Massimiliano , Caniatti Luisa , Baldi Eleonora , Groppo Elisabetta , Pugliatti Maura , Casetta Ilaria
Published: August 2018

Background: To assess a longitudinal follow-up of the prevalence of multiple sclerosis (MS) through 4 decades in the province of Ferrara, northern Italy, and reappraise the current rates on December 31, 2016. Methods: We conducted a community-based intensive prevalence study, by adopting a complete enumeration approach. MS cases were identified from administrative health data and medical records from the Units of Neurology and Motor Rehabilitation, Ferrara University Hospital, from other provincial neurological structures and from archives of the National Pension Institute and National Health Insurance scheme of the study area. Case ascertainment method and case definition are analogous to those adopted in previous surveys in the same area of study. Results: On December 31, 2016, 685 patients (478 women and 207 men) affected by definite or probable MS (Poser’s criteria) were living in the province of Ferrara (population 386,896), yielding a crude prevalence ratio of 194.91 (95% CI 180.4–209.6) per 100,000, 260.8 (95% CI 238.10–285.82) for women and 123.1 (95% CI 106.98–141.21) for men The prevalence ratio was 26.9 per 100,000 in 1978, increased to a value of 46.1 per 100,000 in 1981, 69.4 per 100,000 in 1993, 120.9 per 100,000 in 2004. Female to male ratio was 2.31 (1.2 on December 31, 1978). The mean duration of the disease at prevalence day was 17.5 ± 11.9 years (13.9 ± 10.8 years in 1978). The mean age at prevalence day was 52.04 ± 10.8 years (13.8 ± 10.8 years in 1978). Conclusion: Our study has confirmed the province of Ferrara is an area at high risk for MS, in line with epidemiological data from the regions of continental and insular Italy. The sharp increase in MS prevalence over time in this population can be imputed in part to a greater exposition to risk factors in genetically susceptible subjects but also to an increased survival and improved ascertainment. So, the results suggest that both methodologic and environmental factors are essential in determining the real distribution of MS. The need to get reliable estimates of MS prevalence must be highlighted as a public health and research priority, essential to support planning and prioritization of care services and to reduce the overall burden of chronic disease.
Genes Regulating Immune Response and Amelogenesis Interact in Increasing the Susceptibility to Molar-Incisor Hypomineralization
Authors: Bussaneli Diego Girotto , Restrepo Manuel , Fragelli Camila Maria Bullio , Santos-Pinto Lourdes , Jeremias Fabiano , Cordeiro Rita de Cássia Loiola , Bezamat Mariana , Vieira Alexandre Rezende , Scarel-Caminaga Raquel Mantuaneli
Published: August 2018

Ameloblasts are sensitive cells whose metabolism and function may be affected by inflammatory stimuli. The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible association between polymorphisms in immune response-related genes and molar-incisor hypomineralization (MIH), and their interaction with polymorphisms in amelogenesis-related genes. DNA samples were obtained from 101 nuclear families that had at least 1 MIH-affected child. Eleven single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were investigated in immune response genes using TaqMan® technology allele-specific probes. A transmission disequilibrium test was performed to verify overtransmission of alleles in all MIH families, as well as in families only with mild or severe MIH-affected children. Gene-gene interactions between the immune-related and amelogenesis-related polymorphisms were analyzed by determining whether alleles of those genes were transmitted from heterozygous parents more often in association than individually with MIH-affected children. In severe cases of MIH, significant results were observed for rs10733708 (TGFBR1, OR = 3.5, 95% CI = 1.1–10.6). Statistical evidence for gene-gene interactions between rs6654939 (AMELX) and the SNPs rs2070874 (IL4), rs2275913 (IL17A), rs1800872 (IL10), rs1800587 (IL1A), and rs3771300 (STAT1) was observed. The rs2070874 SNP (IL4) was also significantly overtransmitted from heterozygous parents with the rs7526319 (TUFT1) and the rs2355767 (BMP2) SNPs, suggesting a synergistic effect of the transmission of these alleles with susceptibility to MIH. This family-based study demonstrated an association between variation in TGFBR1 and MIH. Moreover, the polymorphisms in immune response and amelogenesis genes may have an additive effect on the risk of developing MIH.
A Role for Acoustic Stimulation in Advanced Otosclerosis: Direct Acoustic Cochlear Implant versus Cochlear Implant
Authors: Verhaert Nicolas , Borgers Charlotte , De Voecht Katleen , Boon Ellen , Desloovere Christian
Published: August 2018

Recent findings support the efficacy of the direct acoustic cochlear implant (DACI) in patients with advanced otosclerosis whose rehabilitation is very challenging. Standard treatment consists of stapes surgery combined with hearing aids or a cochlear implant (CI). CI surgery, however, is often challenging depending on the grade of otosclerosis. This study aims to compare speech perception scores in quiet and noise of 6 DACI and 12 CI patients with advanced otosclerosis at 3 and 12 months after fitting. Preoperative computed tomographic scans of all patients were scored by experts using an existing otosclerosis grading system (stages 1–3). Speech perception in quiet was significantly better for DACI compared to CI users at 3 months after fitting. At 12 months, no difference was found between DACI and CI patients. Speech perception scores in noise were significantly better in the DACI group. In summary, a DACI system seems to provide an effective treatment option as the acoustic component can be preserved in patients with advanced otosclerosis.
Drug-Induced Autoimmune Hepatitis in a Patient Treated with Minocycline: A Rare Adverse Effect
Authors: Shah Jamil , Shahidullah Abul , Liu Yingxian
Published: August 2018

Drug-induced autoimmune hepatitis is an acute and potentially severe adverse effect, which has been reported following the long-term use of minocycline. The condition’s typical biochemical findings include an elevated antinuclear antibody titer, hypergammaglobulinemia with elevated levels of serum immunoglobulin G, and, sometimes, positive anti-smooth muscle antibodies. Characteristically, transaminase levels are very elevated, while markers of cholestasis and bilirubin levels are mildly increased, and histological features are very similar to those observed in sporadic autoimmune hepatitis. Here, we describe an interesting case of a young female who developed drug-induced autoimmune hepatitis after taking minocycline for the treatment of acne vulgaris.
Adopting a Rights-based Approach to Non-communicable Diseases among Indigenous Peoples in Africa
Authors: Durojaye Ebenezer , Aboubakrine Mariam Wallet Med
Published: August 2018

This article examines non-communicable diseases (ncds) as a challenge among indigenous population in Africa. From a rights-based perspective, the article considers some of the social determinants of health and other challenges that can aggravate ncds among indigenous groups in Africa. It further examines the recognition of the right to health of indigenous populations under international law. This is followed by a discussion on some of the barriers to addressing ncds among indigenous peoples in the region. It concludes by urging African governments to be more proactive in adopting measures grounded in human rights standards to address the rising incidence of ncds among indigenous peoples in the region.
Morph-molecular characterization of Meira nicotianae sp. nov., a novel basidiomycetous, anamorphic yeast-like fungus associated with growth improvement in tobacco plant
Authors: CAO YICHEN , LI PU-DONG , ZHAO JIAMIN , WANG HONG-KAI , JEEWON RAJESH , BHOYROO VISHWAKALYAN , ARUNA BASIBOYANA , LIN FU-CHENG , WANG QIMING
Published: August 2018

A novel yeast-like species was isolated from the rhizosphere of tobacco root collected in Guizhou province, China. Sequence analysis of the large subunit (LSU) rDNA gene indicates that the isolate represents a novel species and most closely related to Meira siamensis. The phylogenetic analysis based on the Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) rDNA gene also confirmed the placement of the novel species within Meira. However, the novel species differs from M. siamensis by 9.1% bp difference in the LSU rDNA sequence region and also in terms of physiological characteristics as compared to other species. This species is proposed as M. nicotianae sp. nov. Co-incubation of M. nicotianae strain CY-1 and tobacco plantlets demonstrates that this fungal strain can promote growth of tobacco plant. Scanning electron micrographs and other morphological illustrations along with phylogenies are presented in this paper.
Nomenclatural and distributional notes on Pecluma paradiseae (Polypodiaceae: Polypodioideae): typification of the name and its presence in Argentina
Authors: LEHN CARLOS RODRIGO , ARANA MARCELO D. , BIANCHINI EDMILSON
Published: August 2018

The genus Pecluma M. G. Price (1983: 109) comprises terrestrial, epiphytic or epilithic ferns, usually medium-sized. Currently, 40 species belonging to the genus are recognized, occurring in the warmer parts of the New World, from Florida to northern Argentina, with a unique set of characteristics: short-creeping, non-glaucous rhizomes with basifixed, pseudopeltate to peltate scales, often terete stipes and rachises, pinnatisect or pectinate-pinnatifid blades with numerous linear or narrowly deltate segments, and sterile lamina parts with acicular cells beside multicellular branched or unbranched glandular hairs (Price 1983; Hennipman et al. 1990; Moran 1995, Assis et al. 2016).
Entomobrya (Collembola, Entomobryidae) for the Canary Islands
Authors: BAQUERO ENRIQUE , JORDANA RAFAEL
Published: August 2018

This paper examines a single genus of springtails (Collembola, Entomobryidae, Entomobrya) across the Canary Islands archipelago. A great sampling effort carried out more than 20 years ago, and over several years, allows us to present the distribution of the genus with the presence of 17 species, some better represented by their abundance than others. In addition to some species present in continental Europe or elsewhere in the world, or those already reported for the Canary Islands (e.g., E. multifasciata (Tullberg, 1871), E. nigrocincta Denis, 1923, E. palmensis Jordana & Baquero, 2010, E. quinquelineata Börner, 1901 and E. unostrigata Stach, 1930), 12 new species have been detected and described, representing 71% of the total species found. All new species have been named in honour of important persons to the history of the Canary Islands, including some leaders. A combination of colouring patterns and other morphological characteristics that are easy to observe in most specimens (Katz et al. 2015a, b) have been used for the identification of the specimens, as is usual for the genus (Christiansen 1958), in addition to the dorsal macrochaetotaxy formula proposed by Jordana & Baquero (2005). Without this formula, many specimens could not have been identified or distinguished from already described species because the colourations —in many cases—show ranges so broad as not to be diagnostic. In some species, the range of colouration can range from totally clear to totally dark, including several intermediate forms. Colour could be a good indicator of the species captured, taking into account that it fades over time with exposure to ethyl alcohol and could turn to different tones. Notwithstanding the above, a recent paper by Ding et al. (2018), show a certain correlation between the color pattern and the specific differentiation by means of DNA studies.
A new Laubieriellus species (Annelida, Spionidae) from Western Australia
Authors: ERICKSON RICKY-LEE , WILSON ROBIN S.
Published: August 2018

A new annelid species within the Prionospio- complex (Spionidae), Laubieriellus cacatua sp. nov., is described from material collected from the continental slope off the western margin of Australia. Laubieriellus cacatua sp. nov. is distinguished by having dorsal crests from chaetigers 6 to 11 and ventral crests on chaetigers 2 to 11. Neuropodial hooded hooks are present from chaetiger 10, with 2 pairs of apical teeth above the main tooth. Ventral sabre chaetae are present from chaetiger 10. This is the first record of Laubieriellus in Australia.
Charts of Dielectric Constant or Refractive Index of the Troposphere *
Authors: Friend Albert W.
Published: August 2018

An index chart and seven sector charts are given for use in providing an easy conversion from radiosonde (RAOB) or similar tropospheric sounding data of the total atmospheric pressure (millibars) the temperature (°C) and the water vapor mixing ratio (grams per kilogram) to the dielectric constant or the radio frequency index of refraction of the atmosphere. Reference is made to 17 reports and papers which indicate possible applications of these data and variations thereof.
Anticyclogenesis in Eastern Canada During Spring
Authors: Johnson C. B.
Published: August 2018

The general circulation over North America during periods of anticyclogenesis in eastern Canada during spring is studied through five-day mean charts. The average pressure distribution at sea level and 10,000 feet during nineteen such periods is shown. Air particle trajectory computations suggest that the development of the characteristic warm upper-level ridge in eastern Canada is related to the trough and area of convergence in western United States.
A Method of Using Pilot Reports for Ocean-Area Synoptic Analysis
Authors: Stidd C. K.
Published: August 2018

As there are a very limited number of surface weather stations in ocean areas, a systematic method is presented for the study and utilization of all pilot reports. The method involves the use of a graph of time vs. the distance of a plane from the terminal. If a low pressure trough crosses the route, its position and motion along the route can be accurately established by the delta value reports from several planes. Reports which are inconsistent with those of other planes can readily be detected and discarded. The graph serves also as a simple prognostic chart in that the extrapolation of the lines which represent pressure systems or zones of bad weather will locate future positions of these weather areas.
The Production of Clouds Containing Supercooled Water Droplets or Ice Crystals Under Laboratory Conditions
Authors: Schaefer Vincent J.
Published: August 2018

The basic laboratory experiment in which a supercooled cloud may be seeded and converted to ice crystals is described in considerable detail. Such information is given as type and preparation of the cold chamber, light sources which are effective for different purposes, methods to follow in forming supercooled clouds, and procedures to follow in seeding them.

The transition temperature at which ice crystals form spontaneously is given as − 39°C ± 0.1°C as the result of a recent study. A simple replica technique for preserving the exact structure of the crystals in plastic is described.
On the Prognostic Usefulness of the Correlation Between Pressure and Temperature Changes at 3 km.
Authors: Hess Seymour L. , Wagner Harold
Published: August 2018

The correlation between pressure and temperature changes at 3 km is computed for six stations in the United States in order to test the forecasting rule that a one degree centigrade temperature change is associated with a one mb pressure change of the same sign at that level. The highest correlations are found with 12 hour changes, but these appear to be due to parallel diurnal variations of pressure and temperature. Positive correlations are found for 24 hour changes but they are so low that little prognostic assistance can be expected from so imperfect a relationship.

Consideration of the indicated horizontal temperature advection and of the station position in a pattern of troughs and ridges is found not to materially improve the performance of the relationship.
A Technique for Detailed Radiosonde Analysis in the Tropics *
Authors: López Manuel E.
Published: August 2018

Various special methods of analyzing raobs in the tropics for forecasting purposes are tested and a combination of the best features found is recommended; this technique consists in plotting the 24-hour change of contours of the isobaric surfaces on a time or space cross-section. Some of the difficulties and limitations of such methods are pointed out.
Observations and Photographs of a Cold Front Made from an Airplane
Authors: Conover John H.
Published: August 2018

The purpose of presenting the following diagrams and cloud photos made in connection with an airplane flight over and through a cold front is to show cloud formations associated with a weak cold front. Such information is lacking in textbooks where only the more severe cold fronts are portrayed. Over land the front here described was preceded by daytime cumulus, their tops rising as the front approached. Some pileus was observed above them where later on Ac cumulogenitus (cug) formed as the tops reached that level. The layer became solid over the position of the cold front at the surface, and there was an upward bulge into the temperature inversion found at 8,000 feet. Over the sea, remains of the Ac cug in the form of lenticulars were found farthest ahead of the front. It is important to note that all the clouds were found some distance above the frontal discontinuity, within the warm air. This was owing to the dryness of the warm air. Detailed observations from the surface were made at Blue Hill Observatory, near by, during the flight.
A Technique for a Synoptic-Climatological Study of an Air Route
Authors: Manos N. E. , Molo W. L.
Published: August 2018

A method is proposed for analyzing the effects of upper winds and terminal weather conditions on flight schedules. An analysis is presented for the 10,000-foot flight level along a given air route for the month of February. General conclusions including a comparison with other levels are presented and the methodology is discussed in detail.
Forecasting the Heights of Cumulus Cloud-Tops on the Washington-Bermuda Airways Route
Authors: Crutcher Harold L. , Hunter James C. , Sanders Robert A. , Price Saul
Published: August 2018

A numerical index of vorticity at 700 mb is obtained from synoptic maps and shown to be highly correlated with the observed heights of cumulus cloud-tops on the Washington-Bermuda airways route. The usefulness of this relationship in forecasting is supported by tests made on independent data.
The Importance of Several Meteorological Elements in the Spreading of Smoke
Authors: Fletcher Robert D. , Manos Nicholas E.
Published: August 2018

Relationships between smoke concentration and visibility, wind direction, wind speed, and temperature stratification are discussed with some references to previous investigations which have related these factors. The paper deals with smoke pollution such as exists in an industrial city, rather than with the effluent from a point- or line-source drifting over an area of constant surface roughness. The review includes some of the findings of the writers, who have made a number of correlations between Weather Bureau meteorological data and Davidson's New York City smoke data of 1939–40. The best of these correlations resulted when the wind direction and wind speed were considered hour by hour for each day, and when a straight-line regression formula was fitted to the data. It is brought out that isobaric curvature, as shown on the weather maps, seems to be a significant factor in the smoke-spreading problem.
Effects of Topography and Other Factors on the Movement of Lows in the Middle East and Sudan
Authors: El-Fandy M. G.
Published: August 2018

In the area extending from the Middle East to the southern Sudan the pressure distribution generally assumes typical seasonal patterns. Apart from winter (December to February) the main low-pressure system which has a direct control on the weather of the area under consideration is an oscillatory barometric minimum, which during the two transitional seasons (spring—March to May—and autumn—September to November) is centered over the central Sudan, and is referred to as the Sudan monsoon low. In October, which represents average conditions in autumn, for example, this low normally extends to about lat. 16°N, but continues towards north with a small inverted V-shaped arm projecting to the northern Red Sea. As winter starts the low acquires a southerly displacement and by January, which represents average conditions in winter, it becomes situated near the Abyssinian Lake Plateau. On the other hand in late spring and early summer the low moves from the central Sudan across Arabia to Persia, and by July it becomes a part of the Asiatic monsoon low which extends to the N.E. Sudan.

The movements of the Sudan low take place in the form of a series of oscillations the average track of which has two outstanding features, namely: (1) There is a remarkable tendency for the low to be located near tablelands. A similar feature is also observed with secondary depressions travelling over the E. Mediterranean in winter. (2) Outstanding northward oscillations of the low take place when middle-latitudes travelling depressions invade the E. Mediterranean from West.

It has also been observed that air currents, not necessarily obeying pressure-gradient, flow along the general run of the Abyssinian Plateau as a result of convergence into the Sudan low, and along the general run of the Persian Plateau (the Valley of Iraq) as a result of convergence into active depressions near Cyprus in winter. Such air currents have been referred to as “effective currents.”

The writer suggests that the image principle may enter into the explanation of these features. The theory which determines the type of motion produced when fluid is drawn off from the center of a revolving disc of incompressible fluid is made use of; but further mathematical treatment and dynamical considerations have been carried out, assuming the active oscillatory low as a slowly travelling cylinder whose axis represents a two-dimensional sink.
Slope and Valley Winds in the Columbia River Valley *
Authors: Cross C. M.
Published: August 2018

The behavior of slope and valley winds near the town of Trail in the Columbia River valley system in southern British Columbia was studied, and the results compared with those obtained from similar studies made in the Alps. The hourly wind velocities for two stations—one in the main valley, the other in a side valley—were resolved into components parallel to and at right angles to the valley. This procedure gives the valley and slope winds respectively.

The usual diurnal wind pattern was found to prevail in most instances, with up-slope and up-valley winds during the day, and down-slope and down-valley winds at night. These systems were much better developed during the summer than in winter, and approximated the ideal pattern more closely on sunny days when the overall pressure gradient was weak.
Arago's Neutral Point: A Neglected Tool in Meteorological Research
Authors: Neuberger Hans
Published: August 2018

The nature of Arago's neutral point of atmospheric polarization and its underlying physical principles are explained. Various criteria of atmospheric turbidity that can be derived from observations of this neutral point are discussed and their relative merits compared. Examples of the usefulness and potentialities of these criteria are cited. In particular, the influence of the size of the particles polluting the atmosphere and of meteorological factors on spectral observations of Arago's neutral point is shown. A selection of problems connected with the interpretation of measurements of Arago's point is presented.
Heavy Snowstorms at Blue Hill (Boston), Mass.*
Authors: Brooks Charles F. , Schell Irving I.
Published: August 2018

During the 24 hours before the all-snow storms (of which there were 12), the pressure on Mt. Washington (elevation 6,288 ft. and 142 miles to the north) rises, the usually prevailing strong northwesterly wind drops sharply, and the temperature mostly shows a rise from a low value. Before heavy snow mixed or alternating with rain (4 storms), the pressure on Mt. Washington starts high and falls, the temperature is moderate, and the wind velocity is comparatively low, frequently with southerly or easterly components.
The Role of Meteorology in Projects of the Corps of Engineers in the Missouri River Basin *
Authors: McClendon Elmo W.
Published: August 2018

The comprehensive plan for the development of water resources of the Missouri River Basin provides for flood control, navigation, electric power generation, irrigation, and other miscellaneous water uses. Of these features the Corps of Engineers is primarily responsible for flood control and for river and harbor developments in the interest of navigation. In the planning, construction, and operation of water control projects to fulfill these primary responsibilities, meteorology plays a very definite and important role.

Meteorology as an art touches the lives of all—as an applied science it affects the plans and actions of numerous organizations which are vitally concerned with the predictability of weather, its variation and extremes. The latter is particularly true in the Corps of Engineers in which weather is one of the basic factors to be considered in the planning, construction, and operation of river development projects.
Upper Atmospheric Nomenclature
Authors: Chapman Sydney
Published: August 2018

It is proposed that stratosphere shall signify solely the nearly isothermal region above the troposphere; that the layer between the stratosphere and the deep temperature minimum somewhat below 100 km be called the mesosphere; that the layer of rising temperature over this minimum be called the thermosphere. On the basis of composition, it is proposed to divide the atmosphere into the homosphere (of substantially uniform composition from the ground upwards) and the heterosphere (of different composition). On the basis of electron density, a correlative to ionosphere is proposed, the neutrosphere. Using pause to signify upper boundary, the stratopause, mesopause, homopause and neutropause are defined. Peak is suggested as the name for a level of maximum, e.g., mesopeak, ozone peak, E or F peak. Incline and decline are names suggested for the parts of a peaked layer below and above the peak, e.g., mesoincline (for the layer of rising temperature just above the stratosphere), mesodecline, E or F incline or decline. A “dip” in a peaked layer is called a syncline.
Insolation and Snow Melt in the Sierra Nevada *
Authors: Miller David H.
Published: August 2018

The role of solar radiation in processes causing melting of a deep snow pack in the Sierra Nevada in 1946 was found important, both in direct absorption and as source of heat relayed to the snow by forest canopy and other elements in the environment of the snow.
Sensations Isopleths on a Wind-Temperature Diagram for Winter Weather on the Canadian Prairies
Authors: Currie B. W.
Published: August 2018

A diagram giving sensations isopleths applicable to indoor workers during brief exposures to winter weather typical of the Canadian Prairies is presented. They are based on the observations of about 35 persons during two successive winters, and depend primarily on wind speed and temperature. They depart markedly from wind-chill isopleths at wind speeds above 20 mph, the higher wind speeds apparently eroding warm air from within the garments and giving a greater cooling than that indicated by the wind-chill formula.
The Relation Between the Tropopause and Convective Activity in the Subtropics (Puerto Rico)
Authors: Graves Maurice E.
Published: August 2018

The temperature field from 9 km to 19 km at San Juan is studied by means of measuring the slopes of 12-hourly sounding curves and drawing tropopause and temperature anomaly patterns on time scales. Two distinct tropopause types are found and these are termed primary and secondary tropopauses.

A rainfall index is computed as a measure of convective activity and it is compared with changes in tropopause pressure and temperature. The secondary tropopause sinks to a minimum elevation with large rainfall maxima.
An Initial Solution to the Hurricane Problem of the Offshore Oil Operator in the Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Shisler Karl
Published: August 2018

An outline of the complex operational problem of the offshore oil operator during periods of tropical disturbances is presented. An initial solution to this problem is developed through the combined use of meteorological forecasting, oceanography, and applied climatology, and the limitations of the solution are discussed. It is emphasized that the traditional generalized hurricane advisory proves inadequate as a solution to the type of industrial weather problem outlined.
Studies on the Distribution and Forecasting of Hail in Western United States *
Authors: Harrison H. T. , Beckwith W. B.
Published: August 2018

The highest hail-thunderstorm ratio in the country is found over the western Great Plains and the east slope of the Rocky Mountains in a band extending from the Rio Grande northward to the Canadian border. Point frequency of hail over western United States is of little value in determining relative area exposures to hail. Frequency of hail in a metropolitan area such as Denver is at least ten times as great as random point frequency within that area. Hail probably occurs aloft during the growing stage of each thunderstorm which forms in the Denver Section. Hail is predominantly a post-coldfrontal phenomenon at Denver, but no satisfactory method has been found so far of predicting damaging hail. Airborne radar storm detection equipment offers the greatest hope of avoiding damaging hail in flight.
Notes on Synoptic Analysis and Forecasting of Mediterranean Summer Weather
Authors: Scully E. C.
Published: August 2018

Summertime in the Mediterranean is the season of the best weather. The impression that the June-October period is sunshine and cumulus fails to take account of cyclonic development in Northwest Africa. The small rapidly moving cyclonic cells, land and sea breeze and cyclongenesis over water in the Western Mediterranean make forecasting using climatological records an unpredictable procedure.
A Method for Using International Business Machines Test Sheets for Student Forecasting and Verification **
Authors: Widger William K. , Palmer Thomas Y.
Published: August 2018

A method is presented for the use of International Business Machines Form I. T. S. 1100 A 151 for the making, verification, and grading of student forecasts. The advantages and limitations of the method are discussed.
The Significance of Anomalies of Atmospheric Circulation Over the North Atlantic in November with Regard to the Temperatures of the Following Winters in New England *
Authors: Baur Franz
Published: August 2018

Seven types are established for forms of the atmospheric circulation in certain portions of “circulation regions” of the middle latitudes of the northern hemisphere. Tendencies of persistence and recurrence are different for each type and are subject to an annual course. Certain rules may be derived from changes in these types.
A Low-Level Temperature Sounding System for Routine Use *
Authors: Myers R. F.
Published: August 2018

A description is given of a system, operated by one man, which has been used at-Oak Ridge for 18 months to obtain daily temperature soundings at intervals of 1 to 6 hours to altitudes of 1,000 to 1,500 feet, with an accuracy of 0.15°F over a range of 10° to 110°F. The system consists of a coated thermistor, 18 foot blimp, 3-conductor plastic cable, nylon safety cord, universal pulley, power-driven winch and a direct reading open-scale temperature recorder. Very little maintenance has been required. A second recorder in use at Idaho Falls, incorporating further refinements of design, has an accuracy of 0.06°F over the range − 40°F to 110°F and effects of abnormal atmospheric potential gradients have been eliminated. Typical observations are presented to illustrate the averaging of ascent and descent data to eliminate lag errors, correction for cable sag, and resulting consistency of diurnal changes shown in the lowest 1,000 feet.
The Helicopter as a Meteorological Tool
Authors: Randall Dwight L.
Published: August 2018

Meteorological instruments suspended at a distance of 60 feet directly below the front rotor of a Piasecki Helicopter (HUP-1) are in free and undisturbed air at all flying speeds above 5 knots according to data scaled from motion picture photographs of wake and smoke-plume intersection positions. These data are applicable to any other type of helicopter having the same or a smaller vertical component of wake velocity as that of the craft used in this experiment.
An Abbreviated Southern Oscillation
Authors: Willett H. C. , Bodurtha Frank T .
Published: August 2018

An abbreviated southern oscillation is formulated which correlates highly with Walker's complete southern oscillation. With the abbreviated southern oscillation the high lag correlation coefficient of the southern oscillation from June–August to the following December–February is verified with data for the additional decade, 1931–1940. The lag correlation coefficient between the June–August abbreviated southern oscillation and the following winter temperature of Southwest Canada is − 0.57.
Some Examples of Chinooks East of the Mountains in Colorado
Authors: Cook A. W. , Topil A. G.
Published: August 2018

The mechanics of chinooks as they occur in eastern Colorado were studied with the aid of upper-air data and cross sections of equivalent-potential temperature across the Rocky Mountain region. The conventional model of the chinook involving precipitation on the windward side of the range adjacent to the chinook area, is discarded in favor of a model that does not require the precipitation. A number of cases are studied. One complete example with all important charts and diagrams is presented to show the mechanics of the chinook as it occurs in the Colorado area. Some data on other examples are also given.
Results of Cloud Seeding in Central Arizona, Winter 1951 *
Authors: MacCready Paul B.
Published: August 2018

Cloud seeding operations took place over a 10,000 square mile area in Central Arizona during the first four months of the winter of 1951. The natural precipitation for these months in this area was estimated by a simple correlation method utilizing an adjacent unseeded region. The actual precipitation consistently exceeded the estimated natural precipitation. The apparent precipitation increases were roughly proportional to the amount of cloud seeding equipment used. Although the correlation technique applied is rather inexact, it seems sufficiently accurate to make the consistent precipitation increases suggestive of a large positive effect from cloud seeding.
An All-Weather, Remote-Recording Bivane *
Authors: Mazzarella Daniel A.
Published: August 2018

Continual measurements of the horizontal and vertical components of eddy motion have been made on the 420-foot meteorology tower at Brookhaven since early 1950. The equipment used for this purpose is an all-weather, remote-recording bivane. Numerous tests have been conducted to determine the characteristics of this instrument, both on the tower and in a wind tunnel. Initially, it was tested and used with a flat-plate, tail section; more recently, it has been tested and used with an annular-fin tail assembly.
Visual Measurements of Atmospheric Transmission of Light at Night
Authors: Pearson C. A. , Koomen M. J. , Tousey R.
Published: August 2018

Measurements of the visual transmission of the atmosphere were made at night across Chesapeake Bay over a period of two years. A visual telephotometer was used to measure the illumination produced at a distance of 8.77 sea miles by a series of calibrated light sources. With this range it was possible to measure atmospheric transmission values between 0.4 and 0.9 per sea mile corresponding to daylight visual ranges from 4 to 40 sea miles with an accuracy of ± 2 percent. Under stable atmospheric conditions the data obtained at night were in good agreement with direct observations of the daylight visual range made before sunset and after the following dawn.
The Response of Balloons to the Wind
Authors: Perkins D. T.
Published: August 2018

The effect of lag in the measurement of winds by balloons is described in terms of the effective thickness of the layer through which the actual winds are averaged to obtain the balloon-measured wind. This effective thickness is expressed in terms of balloon parameters, and finally in terms of the ascent rate and “lift ratio.” The influence of the separate parameters on the effective thickness is discussed.
Summary of Correlations of Bioclimatic Ultraviolet and Total Solar Radiation in Washington, D. C., 1941–1950
Authors: Coblentz W. W.
Published: August 2018

This communication summarizes the results of a ten-year series of uninterrupted daily measurements of the biologically effective component (of wave lengths 2900Å to 3150Å) of ultraviolet solar and sky radiation, incident on a horizontal plane, useful in heliotherapy. Although recent weather conditions were abnormal, the ten-year averages of the monthly totals do not differ markedly from the six-year, and the eight-year averages previously reported in this Bulletin.
Applied Research in Weather Forecasting *
Authors: Thompson J. C.
Published: August 2018

A brief general analysis is made of the aims, methods, and uses of applied research in weather forecasting. The relationship between basic research in meteorology and applied forecasting research is discussed and the common ground between the two is pointed out.
On the Operational Deficiences in Categorical Weather Forecasts
Authors: Thompson J. C.
Published: August 2018

A quantitative analysis is made of the range of operations for which conventional categorical weather forecasts are useful. It is shown that, because individual forecasts must of necessity be designed for only a small range of operations, their utility may be severely limited when the operating risks are much different from those to which the forecasts apply. This deficiency may be minimized, either by making categorical forecasts so that the optimum operating decision is provided for each user, or by providing an estimate of the probability of occurrence of critical weather and thus permitting the user to make his own operating decision.
Verification of an Equation for Trough and Ridge Motion
Authors: Johannessen Karl R. , Cressman George P.
Published: August 2018

A formula for the propagation of trough and ridge lines was tested on synoptic maps. It was found that it works best on the 500-mb chart. At this level the systematic error was found to be small for troughs (< 1 long.° per day) but considerable for ridges (+ 3 to +5 long. ° per day). However, the error scatter was about the same for troughs and ridges. It was found that computations of ridges over elevated terrain such as the Rocky Mountains region have a larger positive systematic error than ridges over flat country. This was not found to be the case for troughs. It is concluded that better results can be expected the closer the actual streamline pattern resembles the model for which the formula was derived.
The Growth and Decline of Anticyclones
Authors: Vederman Joseph
Published: August 2018

Changes of heights and temperatures of the standard pressure surfaces of 40 anticyclones were examined. The average decreasing High was associated with rising constant-pressure surfaces above 850 mb, rapidly rising temperatures from the ground to 250 mb, and slowly falling temperatures above. The average increasing High was associated with a rise of all constant-pressure surfaces, slowly rising temperatures from 850 to 300 mb, and falling temperatures above 300 mb. In most cases increasing Highs had a northward component of motion; decreasing Highs a southward component.
The Breakdown of a Low-level Inversion Studied by Means of Detailed Soundings with a Modified Radiosonde
Authors: Gifford Frank
Published: August 2018

A short series of unusually detailed temperature, humidity, and wind soundings to a height of about 750 mb., made at Silver Hill, Md. on the night of October 30th and 31st, 1950, and consisting of eight flights of specially modified radiosondes and 26 double-theodolite pilot balloon runs, is presented. The nocturnal breakdown of the ground inversion with steep wind gradients, a phenomenon first remarked by Durst in 1933, is here observed apparently to be associated with the sudden lowering of an upper (turbulence or subsidence) inversion. Alternative explanations for this are advanced, and implications for minimum temperature and stratus forecasting noted. The accuracy of the observations is discussed.
The January Thaw in New England * (An Example of a Weather Singularity)
Authors: Wahl Eberhard W.
Published: August 2018

An investigation of temperature and additional records shows the existence of a pronounced January thaw in New England. This singularity can be connected to the existence of typical changes in the circulation over the United States. Further world-wide relations indicate important consequences valuable for further research on singularities.
500-Millibar Studies at Project AROWA
Authors: Berry F. A. , Haggard W. H. , Wolff Paul M.
Published: August 2018

In support of several related applied meteorological research tasks at Project AROWA, studies are being made of pressure patterns at the 500-mb level. Preliminary results of investigations based on data from the period 1946 through 1951 are presented.

Examples of studies of the geostrophic wind profile, daily twenty-four-hour height-change charts, and tracks of the height-change centers are presented. A discussion of the preparation of composite charts for various types of blocking patterns is included. Some comments are made on the development of normal height charts, and the historical map program.
Some Climatological Problems Associated with Assignment of Engineering Design Criteria *
Authors: Jacobs Woodrow C. , Spreen William C.
Published: August 2018

The solution of the problems associated with the assignment of engineering-design criteria requires the full cooperation of the engineer and the meteorologist. It is a problem necessitating an applied climatological study that is tailored to the specific requirements of the engineer. To properly perform this specialized service, the climatologist must be fully informed of the operational efficiencies with respect to the weather elements that are desired and also the exact circumstances under which the equipment will function. This article discusses the information required by the climatologists to prepare an adequate study and illustrates some of the effects of changing operational criteria.
The Canadian Experiment
Authors: McTaggart-Cowan P. D.
Published: August 2018

Progress in the provision of Meteorological Service is reviewed. Examples are drawn from the experience of the Meteorological Service of Canada. A plea is made for the separation of fact from fancy in meteorological publications publishing articles derogating the accuracy of meteorological forecasts.
An Objective System for Estimating Fog and Stratus Probability at Randolph Field, Texas
Authors: Gringorten Irving I.
Published: August 2018

The forecast aid described herein, while similar to the scatter diagrams of many other reports, is obtained in a strictly objective manner, involving linear regression. The limitation of this, as of many other systematic forecasts, is discussed.
A New Method of Computing Vorticity and Divergence
Authors: Graham Roderick D.
Published: August 2018

A method of computing vorticity and divergence which combines certain features of the Bjerknes-Sandström streamline system with the Bellamy objective system is presented. A graphical computer, on which the vorticity and divergence are calculated simultaneously, is described in detail.
The Association of Wind Speed with Height of Upper-Air Constant-Pressure Surfaces
Authors: Fletcher Robert D.
Published: August 2018

It is brought out that axes of strong-wind currents have preferences for particular contour heights on upper-air constant-pressure surfaces. The tendency for coincidence of contour lines and strong-wind axes is emphasized as an aid in upper-wind forecasting. A climatological study also demonstrates a consistent average relation between wind speed, contour height, and latitude.
Counting Sodium-Containing Particles in the Atmosphere by their Spectral Emission in a Hydrogen Flame
Authors: Vonnegut Bernard , Neubauer Raymond L.
Published: August 2018

An apparatus has been constructed that detects and counts aerosol particles by the pulses of light they produce when they enter a hydrogen flame. Continuous observations made over a period of seven months show that the concentration of large sodium-containing particles in the atmosphere is subject to large fluctuations. No consistent correlations have been observed between the concentration of these particles and other meteorological variables. It appears that the particles being counted originate not only from ocean spray, but also from dust storms and as the result of human activity.
Note on Observed Vertical Wind Shear at Low Levels Over the Ocean
Authors: Jones Donald R.
Published: August 2018

A statistical analysis is presented of anomalous vertical wind shear with height from the surface to 1000 and 2000 feet over the ocean. Mention is made of unusual wind effects on the sea surface as a phenomenon that appears to be related to varying wind profiles, dependent upon oceanographic and meteorological conditions.
On the Determination of Moisture Gradients from Radiosonde Records 1, 2
Authors: Bunker Andrew F.
Published: August 2018

The humidity indicated by the rapidly rising radiosonde lags behind the true humidity of the air, making moisture gradient determinations uncertain by a factor of 4. Application of isothermal laboratory determinations of the lag to the readings may be misleading because the radiosonde, in rising through the atmosphere, usually passes from warm air to cooler air. The lag of the strip may be quite different under these circumstances. By comparison of radiosonde reports with airplane humidity soundings, it is found that in the case of the radiosonde moving from warm, dry air (about − 5°C) to cooler, moister air (about − 18°C) the lag may increase to 165 seconds. When it passes to cooler, drier air, the lag decreases to 10 to 20 seconds. Using these lags and assuming an exponential approach to the final value, more nearly correct values of the humidity at particular heights can be computed from the radiosonde records.
The Reliability of Nucleus Concentrations as Measured by an Aitken Counter
Authors: Moore D. J.
Published: August 2018

Hosler, Burkhart and Neuberger [1] found that the number of nuclei deduced from electron microscope examinations of a collodion film exposed on the stage of an Aitken counter gave concentrations up to five times as large as those observed by the normal visual method. They attributed the discrepancy to sedimentation of nuclei during the interval between sampling and expansion and to evaporation of drops before they reached the stage. These effects have been examined by comparing the visual counts with the number of craters on magnesium oxide coated surfaces exposed on the stage of the counter. It appears that sedimentation leads to losses of only 10 to 15 percent if the delay time is 2 seconds, while the loss by evaporation would amount to only a few percent of the nucleus population if the standard instructions for the use of the counter are followed. The high counts observed by Hosier et al with the electron microscope are attributed to nuclei falling on the stage before and during the cleaning process which precedes admission of the sample.