bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fundamental Investigation on the Polishing Aspheric Elements with Doughnut-Shaped MCF Slurry
Authors: Feng Ming , Wu Yong Bo , Bitoh Teruo , Suzuki Tsunehisa , Nomura Mitsuyoshi , Fujii Tatsuya , Wang Qiang
Published: December 2018

Previous researches have confirmed that MCF (magnetic compound fluid) slurry shows outstanding performance in the nanoprecision polishing of flat surfaces and V-grooves. However, no investigations have been conducted on the polishing of aspheric surfaces using MCF slurry. In this work, a novel method employing a doughnut-shaped MCF polishing tool and a 6-DOF manipulator has been proposed for the aspheric surface polishing. The time consumption for forming stable polishing tool and its final appearance are investigated. Flat aluminum alloy workpieces that can be considered as a kind of aspheric elements with infinite curve radius were adopted in the investigation of the polished forces under variable parameters. As a typical experimental result, with MCF3 slurry, 2.5ml volume of supplied slurry and work gap 3.5 mm, the surface roughness Ra decreases from 125nm to almost 10nm after 90 min polishing, confirming that the proposed method has the potential to polish aspheric surfaces.
From trichotillomania to rapunzel syndrome- a case report
Authors: Attygalle U. R. , Jayasekara M. R. S. , Guneratne L. M. E. U.
Published: December 2018

No abstract available
Case report: the girl who did not want to grow tall – a diagnostic dilemma
Authors: Dahanayake D. M. A. , Perera N. I. C. , Wijetunge G. S.
Published: December 2018

Body dysmorphic disorder and eating disorders share the core feature of disturbed body image. Literature on the nature of the relationship between these conditions is inconclusive, but has emphasized on differentiating one from the other as they respond differently to treatment. Furthermore, co-occurrence of these disorders has been described and is associated with more severe illness. Body dysmorphic disorder is categorized under obsessive compulsive and related disorders. We discuss the diagnostic dilemma posed by a 16 year old girl who presented with a restricted eating pattern due to intense fear of growing tall who had co-morbid obsessive compulsive disorder.
Folie à famille: A case report
Authors: Ellepola A.
Published: December 2018

Delusional parasitosis is a rare psychiatric disorder. Development of this condition as an induced delusional disorder among all family members (folie à famille) is even rarer. A family of three members developed folie à famille, and it was successfully treated with a second generation antipsychotic and geographical separation. Myths, stigma regarding psychiatric disorders and misdiagnosis are management challenges highlighted in this case report.
Critical Adverse Impact of IL-6 in Acute Pneumovirus Infection
Authors: Percopo Caroline M. , Ma Michelle , Brenner Todd A. , Krumholz Julia O. , Break Timothy J. , Laky Karen , Rosenberg Helene F.
Published: December 2018

Severe respiratory virus infections feature robust local host responses that contribute to disease severity. Immunomodulatory strategies that limit virus-induced inflammation may be of critical importance, notably in the absence of antiviral vaccines. In this study, we examined the role of the pleiotropic cytokine IL-6 in acute infection with pneumonia virus of mice (PVM), a natural rodent pathogen that is related to respiratory syncytial virus and that generates local inflammation as a feature of severe infection. In contrast to Influenza A, PVM is substantially less lethal in IL-6−/− mice than it is in wild-type, a finding associated with diminished neutrophil recruitment and reduced fluid accumulation in lung tissue. Ly6Chi proinflammatory monocytes are recruited in response to PVM via a CCR2-dependent mechanism, but they are not a major source of IL-6 nor do they contribute to lethal sequelae of infection. By contrast, alveolar macrophages are readily infected with PVM in vivo; ablation of alveolar macrophages results in prolonged survival in association with a reduction in virus-induced IL-6. Finally, as shown previously, administration of immunobiotic Lactobacillus plantarum to the respiratory tracts of PVM-infected mice promoted survival in association with diminished levels of IL-6. We demonstrated in this study that IL-6 suppression is a critical feature of the protective mechanism; PVM-infected IL-6−/− mice responded to low doses of L. plantarum, and administration of IL-6 overcame L. plantarum–mediated protection in PVM-infected wild-type mice. Taken together, these results connect the actions of IL-6 to PVM pathogenesis and suggest cytokine blockade as a potential therapeutic modality in severe infection.
Costimulation through TLR2 Drives Polyfunctional CD8+ T Cell Responses
Authors: Salerno Fiamma , Freen-van Heeren Julian J. , Guislain Aurelie , Nicolet Benoit P. , Wolkers Monika C.
Published: December 2018

Optimal T cell activation requires Ag recognition through the TCR, engagement of costimulatory molecules, and cytokines. T cells can also directly recognize danger signals through the expression of TLRs. Whether TLR ligands have the capacity to provide costimulatory signals and enhance Ag-driven T cell activation is not well understood. In this study, we show that TLR2 and TLR7 ligands potently lower the Ag threshold for cytokine production in T cells. To investigate how TLR triggering supports cytokine production, we adapted the protocol for flow cytometry–based fluorescence in situ hybridization to mouse T cells. The simultaneous detection of cytokine mRNA and protein with single-cell resolution revealed that TLR triggering primarily drives de novo mRNA transcription. Ifng mRNA stabilization only occurs when the TCR is engaged. TLR2-, but not TLR7-mediated costimulation, can enhance mRNA stability at low Ag levels. Importantly, TLR2 costimulation increases the percentage of polyfunctional T cells, a hallmark of potent T cell responses. In conclusion, TLR-mediated costimulation effectively potentiates T cell effector function to suboptimal Ag levels.
NOTCH Activation at the Hematovascular Mesoderm Stage Facilitates Efficient Generation of T Cells with High Proliferation Potential from Human Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Kumar Akhilesh , Lee Jeong Hee , Suknuntha Kran , D’Souza Saritha S. , Thakur Abir S. , Slukvin Igor I.
Published: December 2018

Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) offer the potential to serve as a versatile and scalable source of T cells for immunotherapies, which could be coupled with genetic engineering technologies to meet specific clinical needs. To improve T cell production from hPSCs, it is essential to identify cell subsets that are highly enriched in T cell progenitors and those stages of development at which NOTCH activation induces the most potent T cells. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of T cell production from cell populations isolated at different stages of hematopoietic differentiation, including mesoderm, hemogenic endothelium (HE), and multipotent hematopoietic progenitors. We demonstrate that KDRhiCD31− hematovascular mesodermal progenitors (HVMPs) with definitive hematopoietic potential produce the highest numbers of T cells when cultured on OP9-DLL4 as compared with downstream progenitors, including HE and multipotent hematopoietic progenitors. In addition, we found that T cells generated from HVMPs have the capacity to expand for 6–7 wk in vitro, in comparison with T cells generated from HE and hematopoietic progenitors, which could only be expanded for 4–5 wk. Demonstrating the critical need of NOTCH activation at the HVMP stage of hematopoietic development to establish robust T cell production from hPSCs may aid in establishing protocols for the efficient off-the-shelf production and expansion of T cells for treating hematologic malignancies.
Amphoraceras rothschildi and A. jordani sp. n.: two sibling species (Lepidoptera: Erebidae)
Authors: Zilli Alberto
Published: December 2018

One new species of Amphoraceras which has so far remained unrecognised and intermingled within A. rothschildi is described as A. jordani sp. n. Both species are endemic to New Guinea, where they even happen to locally coexist and overlap phenologically. Main diagnostic features between the two taxa occur in the development of the unusual amphora-shaped structure present on male antenna, which is herewith detailed morphologically, aspects of the habitus and features of the genitalia.
Rediscovery of Hoplia walterrossii: new localities, first ecological notes, description of the female and conservation issues (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae)
Authors: Uliana Marco , Liberto Andrea , Gallerati Valerio , Patacchiola Daniel
Published: December 2018

Hoplia walterrossii is a species endemic to Molise, Southern Italy, with completely unknown ecology and virtually known only on the holotype, few additional specimens having been merely listed in a recent paper. Following the discovery of various new populations in the field and of old unpublished samples, we provide new information on ecology, phenology, distribution, and morphology, including the description of the female, so far unknown. H. walterrossii is associated to alluvial soils near the coast, and to lowland floodplains, with apparent tolerance for temporarily flooded areas. Adults are active for about one month, from early May to early June, and have been observed mostly on leaves of canes and on young poplars, never on flowers. An attempt of formal IUCN status assignment is provided, giving the species the “Endagered” status. Suitable habitats for H. walterrossii are small residual meadows and, in particular, wetlands which have been subjected to a recent strong reduction due to human activity. This process, that started centuries ago, is still in progress, in spite of the formal identification of these areas as sites of conservation concern.
Global burden of diseases attributable to air pollution
Authors: Babatola Samuel Soledayo
Published: December 2018

Air pollution has remained a major issue of concern over the years with serious toxicological effects on human health. This paper evaluates the comparison of estimates and describes the global burden of diseases related to air pollution in the regions of WHO from 1990 to 2015. The study uses existing data from IHME on global burden of diseases (Mortality and Disability Adjusted Life Years) related to air pollution such as Trachea, Bronchus and Lung cancer, COPD, Ischemic heart disease and Stroke. This study shows that air pollution is one of the major environmental risk factors for the global burden of disease in 1990-2015 and has remained relatively stable for the past 25 years. By region, the largest burden of disease related to air pollution is found in Western Pacific and South-East Asia, reflecting the heavy industry and air pollution hotspots within the developing nations of these regions. Moreover, the rates of Disability Adjusted Life Years increased because of increase in pollution, especially in South-East Asia region, African region, and Eastern Mediterranean region where populations are both growing and ageing.
Prevention of mother-to-child transmission of hepatitis B virus in Burkina Faso: Screening, vaccination and evaluation of post-vaccination antibodies against hepatitis B surface antigen in newborns
Authors: Yelemkoure Edwige T. , Yonli Albert T. , Montesano Carla , Ouattara Abdoul Karim , Diarra Birama , Zohoncon Théodora M. , Nadembega Christelle W.M. , Ouedraogo Paul , Sombié Charles , Soubeiga Serge Theophile , Tao Issoufou , Gansane Adama , Amicosante Massimo , Djigma Florencia , Obiri-Yeboah Dorcas , Pietra Virginio , Simpore Jacques , Colizzi Vittorio
Published: December 2018

The low rate of screening for hepatitis B virus (HBV) in pregnant women is a highrisk factor for its vertical transmission. The objectives of this study were: i) to screen pregnant women for HBV infection; ii) vaccinate all children from birth against HBV regardless their mother HBV status; and iii) evaluate after 7 months of birth the level of their AbHBs among babies who received HBV vaccine at birth. Serological markers of HBV (HBsAg, HBeAg, AbHBs, AbHBe, and AbHBc) were determined on venous blood samples from 237 pregnant women and their children using the Abon Biopharm Kit. One hundred and two (102) children received the three doses of the EUVAX B® vaccine respectively at birth, two months and four months of life. Seven months after delivery, venous blood samples were collected from mothers and their children. Antibodies against hepatitis B surface antigen (AbHBs) were measured in vaccinated children using the ELISA Kit AbHBs Quantitative EIA. DNA extraction was performed on samples from HBV-seropositive mothers and their children using the Ribo Virus (HBV Real-TM Qual) Kit and for Real Time PCR, the HBV Real-TM Qual Kit was used. Serological diagnosis in pregnant women revealed 22 (9.28%) hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) positive samples of which 21 were positive for viral DNA by real-time PCR. Among the 22 HBsAg+ women, five (05) transmitted the virus to their children with a vertical transmission rate of 22.73%. A transmission rate of 23.81% (5/21) was found with the PCR method. Analysis of AbHBs levels revealed that 98.31% of the children had an average concentration of 218.07 ± 74.66 IU/L, which is well above the minimum threshold for protection (11 IU/L). This study has confirmed that vertical transmission of HBV is a reality in Burkina Faso and that vaccination at birth would significantly reduce this transmission.
Establishing common leadership practices and their influence on providers and service delivery in selected hospitals in Lusaka province, Zambia
Authors: Mulenga Regina M. , Nzala Selestine , Mutale Wilbroad
Published: December 2018

In an evolving health care environment, hospitals need managers with high levels of technical and professional expertise who do not only concentrate on patient care, but also go further to demonstrate good leadership practices. In Zambia, the health sector’s mission is “to provide equity of access to cost-effective quality health services as close to the family as possible”. Only competent leadership can drive such an agenda. This study, conducted in selected 1st level Lusaka hospitals aimed at establishing the existing common leadership practices and their influence on healthcare providers and service delivery. The study employed a cross-sectional qualitative research method design, to establish and examine the leadership practices through 10 health system managers and 32 healthcare providers. The data was obtained using in-depth interviews, focus group discussion, participant observation and document review. Data analysis was done by first transcribing audio-recorded interviews and grouping them into data sets (matrixes) where emerging themes were categorized manually. The information obtained assisted in making conclusions and interpretations by providing eminent explanations pointing to specific leadership styles and influence caused on healthcare providers and service delivery. The common leadership practices obtained in this study was the transformational leadership followed by transactional leadership while laissez-faire was rare type of leadership. This conclusion was arrived at through the practices that were pointing to transformational and transactional leadership as preferred by the leaders and perceived or experienced by providers. These practices were explained as networking, interpersonal relationships, human/material resources management, monitoring and evaluation, dictatorial tendencies and overworking of employees. Furthermore, these practices were seen to have strong influence on healthcare providers through enhanced confidence, motivation for hard work and compromised quality of care. The resultant impact on service delivery was high quality performance as well as poor performance. Leadership styles affect employees’ commitment, motivation, satisfaction, extra effort and efficiency. This in turn has a bearing on performance and directly or indirectly influences patient care and its quality. Health system managers have a significant role in using leadership styles that promote good practice. It can be safely concluded that hospital performance and quality health care delivery services is a product of several factors. The analysis of leadership practices in this study shows two of the factors influencing hospital performance. The first factor is the effectiveness of leaders within the hospital and secondly the dedication, motivation, commitment and performance of employees that will improve health care services.
The effect of self-efficacy and outcome expectation on medication adherence behaviour
Authors: Okuboyejo Senanu , Mbarika Victor , Omoregbe Nicholas
Published: December 2018

Medication adherence still ranks as a big challenge for clinicians and health workers. Based on a social learning theoretical framework, this study explores the adoption of patient adherence, medication adherence as a catalyst for improving the health and quality of life of individuals in Nigeria. Structural Equation Modelling technique was used to analyze the empirical data obtained. SLT variables including self-efficacy and outcome expectation were tested against medication adherence behavior. The constructs are related and positively correlated except definition which is contrary to previous researches. The research discusses these findings while also highlighting the implications for practice and policy.
National prevalence and associated factors of khat chewing among students in Ethiopia: A protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Getinet Wondale , Amare Tadele , Worku Wubet
Published: December 2018

The existing prevalence of khat chewing among university students ranges from 23.1% to 74.1%. Its impact affected students mentally, physically, economically and their social interaction. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis will be to determine the prevalence of khat chewing and associated factors among students in Ethiopia and to help guide policy makers in the decision-making process. A complete systematic review and meta-analysis of published studies on the prevalence of khat chewing and associated factors in Ethiopia will be conducted. A computerized internet search using Medline/PubMed, Google Scholar and EMBASE databases and reference lists of previous prevalence studies and full search strategy and cross-checking of reference lists of published peerreviewed articles will be conducted to identify all cross-sectional and cohort studies published in English. We will use the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses) statement for reporting. Pooled estimated effect of prevalence of khat chewing and associated factors will be analyzed using the random effects meta-analysis (random effects model) and (with 95% CI) will be measured. The underlying work is based on systematic reviews of published data and thus do not require ethical review approval. The results of the systematic review will be disseminated in different conferences, seminars and published in a reputable international reviewed journal. A complete systematic review and meta-analysis of published studies on the prevalence of khat chewing and associated factors in Ethiopia will be conducted. All observational studies of (cross-sectional, cohort, case control) and randomized controlled trials will be included. A widespread range of studies and settings will be included.
A situational analysis of eye care services in Swaziland
Authors: Sukati Velibanti Nhlanhla , Moodley Vannesa Raquel , Mashige Khathutshelo Percy
Published: December 2018

Compared to other African countries, Swaziland performs the worst in terms of providing eye health care services. A priority goal of the World Health Organization (WHO) is to alleviate childhood blindness, particularly in low-income countries such as Swaziland, where many people live in poverty, which is a contributor to poor health outcomes. A mixed method approach that entailed a document review, key informant interviews and clinical facility assessment questionnaires was used. Hospitals and mission clinics offering ophthalmic services were identified through the website of the Ministry of Health and verified during key informant interviews. A saturated sampling procedure was applied due to the few facilities that offer eye care services. Six framework components from the WHO for analysing health systems were utilised in an eye health care service context: leadership and governance, eye health services, eye health workforce, eye health financing systems, eye health medical supplies and technologies, and eye health information systems. Poor management, lack of accountability, poor monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, weak coordination and ineffective private-public sector regulations were identified as factors that lead to poor eye care in the country. The optometrists indicated that refractive services are the most rendered ophthalmic services. The exodus of healthcare practitioners has contributed to the downfall of the public health sector in the country. Five government eye care facilities, 3 government hospitals, 1 non-governmental organization (NGO) and a church mission clinic were included in this analysis. The eye services distribution favors the more affluent areas, particularly the more urban Hhohho Region, which is also where most of the eye health professionals are located. No campaigns have been conducted to prevent childhood blinding diseases or create awareness about getting children’s eyes tested for refractive correction. The burden of eye diseases among children in Swaziland remains unknown. More eye health care personnel and equipped facilities are needed throughout the country, and the eye health care program needs to be adopted.
Field application of the Micro Biological Survey method for the assessment of the microbiological safety of different water sources in Tanzania
Authors: Gionfriddo Matteo , Nicolosi Beatrice , Murgia Lorenza , Arienzo Alyexandra , De Gara Laura , Antonini Giovanni
Published: December 2018

Access to safe water is stated within human rights as essential for life, as water can be a source of severe enteric infections threatening human health, in particular children from Developing Countries. Along with reference methods, need is pressing for alternative methods to flank reference ones to improve water safety on-site monitoring and in the absence of scientific facilities or even electricity supply. The Micro Biological Survey (MBS) method has already been successfully applied to water safety assessment in Developing Countries. A total of 18 water samples were collected from different sources (rivers, dug wells, tap water) within the Rukwa Region, Tanzania, and underwent analysis for Total Coliforms following the MBS method. Globally, rivers showed more frequently contamination, followed by dug wells, tap water and tanks. Results demonstrate the need for continuous monitoring of water sources, even in difficult frameworks lacking electric supply, to help improve control over water quality, possibly using alternative methods to simplify existing protocols.
APOBEC3G expression and HIV-1 infection in Burkina Faso
Authors: Compaore Tegwinde Rebeca , Soubeiga Serge Theophile , Ouattara Abdoul Karim , Tchelougou Damehan , Bisseye Cyrille , Bakouan Didier Romuald , Compaore Issaka , Dembele Augustine , Yonli Albert Theophane , Obiri-Yeboah Dorcas , Djigma Wendkuuni Florencia , Simpore Jacques
Published: December 2018

APOBEC3G is a potent inhibitor of HIV-1 replication, and act by deaminating cytidines in uracil on the negative strand of the viral cDNA. In this case-control study, APOBEC3G expression in subjects’ naïve to HAART infected by HIV-1 and the effect of APOBEC3G polymorphism on its expression were evaluated. The results show that the HIV-1 infected carriers of the G minor alleles of the variant rs8177832 had a higher expression of APOBEC3G mRNA than the controls carriers of the G minor allele. APOBEC3G polymorphisms could play an important role in the modulation of the HIV-1 dissemination.
Constructing responsibility in social interaction: an analysis of responsibility talk in hospital administrative groups
Authors: Pennanen Eveliina , Mikkola Leena
Published: December 2018

The role of responsibility in hospitals is undeniable. Although administrative groups are essential to organizational performance, previous group and team studies of responsibility in hospital organizations have concentrated mainly on healthcare teams. This study aims to describe and understand responsibility construction in the social interaction in hospital administrative group meetings, based on observation and analysis of seven administrative group meetings in a Finnish hospital. Categories generated by thematic content analysis were compared with responsibility types. The findings show that responsibility is constructed by creating co-responsibility, taking individual responsibility, and constructing non-responsibility. Action and role and task responsibilities emerged as types from the interaction. To support employee involvement in responsibility processes, they must also be provided with sufficient resources to deal with that responsibility and to manage its different dimensions. These insights can be utilized to improve administrative groups.
Meeting complexity with collaboration: a proposed conceptual framework for participatory community-based music therapy research in end of life-care
Authors: Schmid Wolfgang
Published: December 2018

Research in end-of-life care is complex with specific ethical and practical challenges related to epistemology, methodology and recruitment of people approaching the end of life. However, to ensure the provision of high-quality care research efforts need to be aligned with the priorities of patients, their families, and interdisciplinary team members. A more systematic engagement of all three groups in research is needed to promote tailored and appropriate end-of-life care. In this methodological article I propose a conceptual framework for community-based participatory music therapy research in end-of-life care scenarios as one promising strategy to respond to ethical and practical challenges, to handle complexity and advance integration of perspectives. The conceptual framework consists of two thematic clusters i) Participlinarity across contexts, and ii) Community-based participatory music therapy research in end-of-life care scenarios. Though in the early stages of development, the framework addresses issues of educational strategies and continuity of care, and aims to contribute to innovative music therapy research in the future.
Hashimoto’s encephalopathy in a patient with septal panniculitis: a case report
Authors: Cosso C. , Ghio M. , Cutolo M.
Published: December 2018

Hashimoto’s encephalopathy (HE) is an autoimmune form of encephalopathy, associated with autoimmune thyroiditis. Its prevalence is estimated to be 2:100,000. HE is characterized by behavioral changes, mental confusion, dysarthria, ataxia, psychosis, paranoia, convulsions, hallucinations, headache and hyperthermia. Elevated thyroid antibodies are necessary for diagnosis and the disease responds dramatically to glucocorticoid therapy. We describe a patient with HE and panniculitis, an association reported twice in the literature.
Satellite-based estimate of the variability of warm cloud properties associated with aerosol and meteorological conditions
Authors: Liu Yuqin , Zhang Jiahua , Zhou Putian , Lin Tao , Hong Juan , Shi Lamei , Yao Fengmei , Wu Jun , Guo Huadong , de Leeuw Gerrit
Published: December 2018

Abstract. Aerosol–cloud interaction (ACI) is examined using 10 years of
data from the MODIS/Terra (morning orbit) and MODIS/Aqua (afternoon orbit)
satellites. Aerosol optical depth (AOD) and cloud properties retrieved from
both sensors are used to explore in a statistical sense the
morning-to-afternoon variation of cloud properties in conditions with low
and high AOD, over both land and ocean. The results show that the
interaction between aerosol particles and clouds is more complex and of
greater uncertainty over land than over ocean. The variation in
d(Cloud_X), defined as the mean change in cloud property
Cloud_X between the morning and afternoon overpasses in
high-AOD conditions minus that in low-AOD conditions, is different over land and
ocean. This applies to cloud droplet effective radius (CDR), cloud fraction
(CF) and cloud top pressure (CTP), but not to cloud optical thickness (COT)
and cloud liquid water path (CWP). Both COT and CWP increase over land and
ocean after the time step, irrespective of the AOD. However, the initial AOD
conditions can affect the amplitude of variation of COT and CWP. The effects
of initial cloud fraction and meteorological conditions on the change in CF
under low- and high-AOD conditions after the 3 h time step over land are
also explored. Two cases are considered: (1) when the cloud cover increases
and (2) when the cloud cover decreases. For both cases, we find that almost all
values of d(CF) are positive, indicating that the variations of CF are
larger in high AOD than that in low AOD after the 3 h time step. The
results also show that a large increase in cloud fraction occurs when scenes
experience large AOD and stronger upward motion of air parcels. Furthermore,
the increase rate of cloud cover is larger for high AOD with increasing relative humidity
(RH) when RH is larger than 20 %. We also find that a smaller increase in cloud
fraction occurs when scenes experience larger AOD and larger initial cloud
cover. Overall, the analysis of the diurnal variation of cloud properties
provides a better understanding of aerosol–cloud interaction over land and
ocean.
Detecting layer height of smoke aerosols over vegetated land and
water surfaces via oxygen absorption bands: Hourly results from
EPIC/DSCOVR satellite in deep space
Authors: Xu Xiaoguang , Wang Jun , Wang Yi , Zeng Jing , Torres Omar , Reid Jeffrey S. , Miller Steven D. , Martins J. Vanderlei , Remer Lorraine A.
Published: December 2018

Abstract. We present an algorithm for retrieving aerosol layer height (ALH) and aerosol optical depth (AOD) for smoke over vegetated land and water surfaces from measurements of the Earth Polychromatic Imaging Camera (EPIC) onboard the Deep Space Climate Observatory (DSCOVR). The algorithm uses earth-reflected radiances in six EPIC bands in visible and near-infrared and incorporates flexible spectral fittings that account for specifics of land and water surface reflectivity. The fitting procedure first determines AOD using EPIC atmospheric window bands (443 nm, 551 nm, 680 nm, and 780 nm), then uses oxygen (O2) A and B bands (688 nm and 764 nm) to derive the ALH that represents an optical centroid altitude. ALH retrieval over vegetated surface primarily takes advantage of the measurements in the O2 B band. We applied the algorithm to EPIC observations of several biomass burning events over United State and Canada in August 2017. We found the algorithm can well capture AOD and ALH multiple times daily over water and vegetated land surface. Validations are performed against aerosol extinction profile detected by the Cloud-Aerosol Lidar with Orthogonal Polarization (CALIOP) and AOD observed at nine Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET) sites, showing, in average, an error of 0.58 km and a bias of −0.13 km in retrieved ALH and an error of 0.05 and a bias of 0.03 in retrieved AOD. Additionally, we show that the aerosol height information retrieved by the present algorithm can potentially benefit the retrieval of aerosol properties from the EPIC’s ultraviolet (UV) bands.
Longitudinal contrast in turbulence along a  ∼ 19° S section in the Pacific and its consequences for biogeochemical fluxes
Authors: Bouruet-Aubertot Pascale , Cuypers Yannis , Doglioli Andrea , Caffin Mathieu , Yohia Christophe , de Verneil Alain , Petrenko Anne , Lefèvre Dominique , Le Goff Hervé , Rougier Gilles , Picheral Marc , Moutin Thierry
Published: December 2018

Abstract. Microstructure measurements were performed along the
OUTPACE longitudinal transect in the tropical Pacific
(Moutin and Bonnet, 2015). Small-scale dynamics and turbulence in the first
800 m surface layer were characterized based on hydrographic and current
measurements at fine vertical scale and turbulence measurements at
centimeter scale using a vertical microstructure profiler. The possible
impact of turbulence on biogeochemical budgets in the surface layer was also
addressed in this region of increasing oligotrophy to the east. The
dissipation rate of turbulent kinetic energy, ϵ, showed an
interesting contrast along the longitudinal transect with stronger
turbulence in the west, i.e., the Melanesian Archipelago, compared to the
east, within the South Pacific Subtropical Gyre, with a variation of
ϵ by a factor of 3 within [100–500 m]. The layer with enhanced
turbulence decreased in vertical extent travelling eastward. This spatial
pattern was correlated with the energy level of the internal wave field,
higher in the west compared to the east. The difference in wave energy mostly
resulted from enhanced wind power input into inertial motions in the west.
Moreover, three long-duration stations were sampled along the cruise
transect, each over three inertial periods. The analysis from the western
long-duration station gave evidence of an energetic baroclinic near-inertial
wave that was responsible for the enhanced ϵ, observed within a
50–250 m layer, with a value of 8×10-9 W kg−1, about 8
times larger than at the eastern long-duration stations. Averaged nitrate
turbulent diffusive fluxes in a 100 m layer below the top of the
nitracline were about twice larger west of 170∘ W due to the
higher vertical diffusion coefficient. In the photic layer, the
depth-averaged nitrate turbulent diffusive flux strongly decreased
eastward, with an averaged value of 11 µmolm-2d-1 west of
170∘ W compared with the 3 µmolm-2d-1 averaged
value east of 170∘ W. Contrastingly, phosphate turbulent diffusive
fluxes were significantly larger in the photic layer. This input may have an
important role in sustaining the development of N2-fixing organisms
that were shown to be the main primary contributors to the biological pump in
the area. The time–space intermittency of mixing events, intrinsic to
turbulence, was underlined, but its consequences for micro-organisms would
deserve a dedicated study.
A synthesis dataset of permafrost-affected soil thermal conditions for Alaska, USA
Authors: Wang Kang , Jafarov Elchin , Overeem Irina , Romanovsky Vladimir , Schaefer Kevin , Clow Gary , Urban Frank , Cable William , Piper Mark , Schwalm Christopher , Zhang Tingjun , Kholodov Alexander , Sousanes Pamela , Loso Michael , Hill Kenneth
Published: December 2018

Abstract. Recent observations of near-surface soil temperatures over the circumpolar
Arctic show accelerated warming of permafrost-affected soils. The
availability of a comprehensive near-surface permafrost and active layer
dataset is critical to better understanding climate impacts and to
constraining permafrost thermal conditions and its spatial distribution in
land system models. We compiled a soil temperature dataset from 72 monitoring
stations in Alaska using data collected by the U.S. Geological Survey, the
National Park Service, and the University of Alaska Fairbanks permafrost
monitoring networks. The array of monitoring stations spans a large range of
latitudes from 60.9 to 71.3∘ N and elevations from near sea level to
∼1300 m, comprising tundra and boreal forest regions. This dataset
consists of monthly ground temperatures at depths up to 1 m,
volumetric soil water content, snow depth, and air temperature during
1997–2016. These data have been quality controlled in collection and
processing. Meanwhile, we implemented data harmonization evaluation for the
processed dataset. The final product (PF-AK, v0.1) is available at the Arctic
Data Center (https://doi.org/10.18739/A2KG55).
Local models reveal greater spatial variation than global grids in an urban mosaic: Hong Kong climate, vegetation, and topography rasters
Authors: Morgan Brett , Guénard Benoit
Published: December 2018

Abstract. The recent proliferation of high quality global gridded GIS datasets has spurred a renaissance of studies in many fields, particularly biogeography. However these data, often 1 km at the finest scale available, are too coarse for applications such as precise designation of conservation priority areas and species distribution modeling, or purposes outside of biology such as city planning and precision agriculture. Further, these global datasets likely underestimate local climate variation because they do not incorporate locally relevant variables. Here we describe a comprehensive set of 30 m resolution rasters for Hong Kong, a small subtropical territory with highly variable terrain where intense anthropogenic disturbance meets a robust protected area system. The data include topographic variables, NDVI, and interpolated climate variables based on weather station observations. We present validation statistics that convey each climate variable's reliability, and compare our results to a widely used global dataset, finding that our models consistently reflect greater climatic variation. To our knowledge, this is the first set of published environmental rasters specific to Hong Kong. We hope this diverse suite of geographic data will facilitate future environmental and ecological studies in this region of the world, where a spatial understanding of rapid urbanization, introduced species pressure, and conservation efforts is critical. The dataset is accessible at https://figshare.com/s/3a5634e36e80dc33444c.
Generating a global gridded tillage dataset
Authors: Porwollik Vera , Rolinski Susanne , Heinke Jens , Müller Christoph
Published: December 2018

Abstract. Tillage is a central element in agricultural soil management and has direct and indirect effects on processes in the biosphere. Effects of agricultural soil management can be assessed by soil, crop, and ecosystem models but global assessments are hampered by lack of information on type and spatial distribution. This study describes the generation of a global classification of tillage practices and the spatially explicit mapping of crop-specific tillage systems for around the year 2005. Tillage practices differ by the kind of equipment used, soil surface and depth affected, timing, and their purpose within the cropping systems. We classified the broad variety of globally relevant tillage practices into six tillage systems. The identified tillage systems were allocated to crop-specific cropland areas with a resolution of 5 arc-minutes. The allocation rules were based on literature findings and combine area information on crop type, water management regime, field size, water erosion, income, and aridity. We allocated national Conservation Agriculture areas to grid cells via a probability-based downscaling approach for 54 reporting countries. The dynamic definition of the allocation rules and accounting for national statistics, such as the share of Conservation Agriculture per country, also allows for deriving datasets for future global soil management scenarios. We present the mapping of six tillage systems: no-tillage in the context of Conservation Agriculture (1.1 Mkm2), traditional annual (4.01 Mkm2), traditional rotational (0.65 Mkm2), rotational (0.74 Mkm2), reduced (0.15 Mkm2), and conventional annual tillage (4.65 Mkm2). Further we identified a total area of 4.67 Mkm2 ha as potentially suitable area for Conservation Agriculture under assessed current conditions. We elaborate on the results of a sensitivity analysis for our downscale approach as well compare tillage system area results to literature estimates. The presented tillage dataset and source code are accessible via an open-data repository for modeling communities interested in the quantitative assessment of biophysical and biogeochemical impacts of land use and soil management (DOIs: https://doi.org/10.5880/PIK.2018.012 and https://doi.org/10.5880/PIK.2018.013 (Porwollik et al., 2018a, b)).
Automatic tuning of the Community Atmospheric Model (CAM5) by using short-term hindcasts with an improved downhill simplex optimization method
Authors: Zhang Tao , Zhang Minghua , Lin Wuyin , Lin Yanluan , Xue Wei , Yu Haiyang , He Juanxiong , Xin Xiaoge , Ma Hsi-Yen , Xie Shaocheng , Zheng Weimin
Published: December 2018

Abstract. Traditional trial-and-error tuning of uncertain parameters in
global atmospheric general circulation models (GCMs) is time consuming and
subjective. This study explores the feasibility of automatic optimization of
GCM parameters for fast physics by using short-term hindcasts. An automatic
workflow is described and applied to the Community Atmospheric Model (CAM5)
to optimize several parameters in its cloud and convective parameterizations.
We show that the auto-optimization leads to 10 % reduction of the overall
bias in CAM5, which is already a well-calibrated model, based on a
predefined metric that includes precipitation, temperature, humidity, and
longwave/shortwave cloud forcing. The computational cost of the entire
optimization procedure is about equivalent to a single 12-year
atmospheric model simulation. The tuning reduces the large underestimation in
the CAM5 longwave cloud forcing by decreasing the threshold relative humidity
and the sedimentation velocity of ice crystals in the cloud schemes; it
reduces the overestimation of precipitation by increasing the adjustment time
in the convection scheme. The physical processes behind the tuned model
performance for each targeted field are discussed. Limitations of the
automatic tuning are described, including the slight deterioration in some
targeted fields that reflect the structural errors of the model. It is
pointed out that automatic tuning can be a viable supplement to
process-oriented model evaluations and improvement.
Evaluation of drought representation and propagation in Regional Climate Model simulations over Spain
Authors: Barella-Ortiz Anaïs , Quintana-Seguí Pere
Published: December 2018

Abstract. Drought is an important climatic risk, of complex modeling due to the interaction of different processes and their corresponding temporal scales. It is expected to increase in intensity, frequency and duration due to a warmer climate. Therefore, it is vital to know the evolution of drought in relation to climate change. For this, the better understanding of processes involved in it is key. The study here presented, analyses drought representation and propagation by regional climate models from Med-CORDEX simulations by means of standardized indices. The models used are RCSM4, CCLM4, and PROMES. Focus is made on three types of drought: meteorological, soil moisture and hydrological. Results show that these models improve meteorological drought representation, but large uncertainties are identified in its propagation and the way soil moisture and hydrological droughts are characterised. These are mainly due to the relevance of model formulation. For instance, it affects the temporal scale at which precipitation variability propagates to soil moisture and streamflow. In addition, downscaling is also seen to affect streamflow variability, and thus hydrological drought.
Modeling experiments on seasonal lake ice mass and energy balance in Qinghai-Tibet Plateau: A case study
Authors: Huang Wenfeng , Cheng Bin , Zhang Jinrong , Zhang Zheng , Vihma Timo , Li Zhijun , Niu Fujun
Published: December 2018

Abstract. The lake-rich Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (QTP) has significant impacts on regional and global water cycles and monsoon systems through heat and water vapor exchange. The lake-atmosphere interactions have been quantified over open-water periods, yet little is known about the lake ice thermodynamics and heat and mass balance during ice-covered season due to a lack of field data. Modeling experiments on ice evolution and energy balance were performed in a shallow lake with a high-resolution snow and ice thermodynamic model. The bottom ice growth and decay dominated the seasonal evolution of the thickness of lake ice. Strong surface sublimation was a crucial pattern of ice loss, which was up to 40 % of the maximum ice thickness. Simulation results matched well with the observations with respect to ice mass balance components, net ice thickness, and ice temperature. Strong solar radiation, consistent freezing air temperature, and low air moisture were the major driving forces controlling the seasonal ice mass balance. Energy balance was estimated at the ice surface and bottom, and within the ice interior and under-ice water. Particularly, almost all heat fluxes showed significant diurnal variations including short- and long-wave radiation, turbulent heat fluxes, water heat fluxes at ice bottom, and absorbed and penetrated solar radiation. The calculated ice surface temperature indicated that the atmospheric boundary layer was consistently stable and neutral over the ice-covered period. The turbulent heat fluxes between the lake ice and air and the net heat gain by the lake were much lower than those during open-water period. Ice surface sublimation (vapor flux) was demonstrated to be a vital seasonal water balance component, accounting for 41 % of lake water loss during the ice seasons.
Comparison of planetary bearing load-sharing characteristics in wind turbine gearboxes
Authors: Keller Jonathan , Guo Yi , Zhang Zhiwei , Lucas Doug
Published: December 2018

Abstract. In this paper, the planetary load-sharing behavior and fatigue
life of different wind turbine gearboxes when subjected to rotor moments are
examined. Two planetary bearing designs are compared – one design using
cylindrical roller bearings with clearance and the other design using
preloaded tapered roller bearings to support both the carrier and planet
gears. Each design was developed and integrated into a
750 kW dynamometer tests, the loads on each planet bearing
row were measured and compared to finite-element models. Bearing loads were
not equally shared between the set of cylindrical roller bearings supporting
the planets even in pure torque conditions, with one bearing supporting up to
46 % more load than expected. A significant improvement in planetary
bearing load sharing was demonstrated in the gearbox with preloaded tapered
roller bearings with maximum loads 20 % lower than the gearbox with
cylindrical roller bearings. Bearing life was calculated with a
representative duty cycle measured from field tests. The predicted fatigue
life of the eight combined planet and carrier bearings for the gearbox with
preloaded tapered roller bearings is 3.5 times greater than for the gearbox
with cylindrical roller bearings. The influence of other factors, such as
carrier and planet bearing clearance, gravity, and tangential pin position
error, is also investigated. The combined effect of gravity and carrier
bearing clearance was primarily responsible for unequal load sharing.
Reducing carrier bearing clearance significantly improved load sharing, while
reducing planet clearance did not. Normal tangential pin position error did
not impact load sharing due to the floating sun design of this three-planet
gearbox.
Film and Television Genres of the Late Soviet Era
Authors: Pfahlert Jeanine
Published: December 2018

Alexander Prokhorov and Elena Prokhorov, Film and Television Genres of the Late Soviet Era. New York: Bloomsbury Academic, 2017. 219pp. ISBN: 9781441134288
Antenor en Ítaca o la venganza de la razón. Un episodio de la segunda parte de "El Antenor" (1788) de Pedro Montengón
Authors: Teodoro Peris Josep L.
Published: December 2018

Resumen. El libro II de la segunda parte de El Antenor (1788) de Pedro Montengón reproduce unas circunstancias muy semejantes a las que desarrolla el cuarto libro de la Eneida. Una reina viuda, Penélope, se enamora de un héroe, Antenor, que tiene un destino más alto por cumplir. El tratamiento que el autor da a esta situación difiere sustancialmente del virgiliano, introduciendo elementos propios de la moral estoica, del decoro burgués y de la sensibilidad romántica, en una combinación que denota perfectamente la época de composición de esta interesante novela de trama legendaria y de intenciones filosóficas.