bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FDM Prototype Experimental Research of Processing Parameter Optimization to Achieve Higher Tensile Stress
Authors: Brensons Ilmars , Polukoshko Svetlana , Silins Andris , Mozga Natalija
Published: December 2014

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is one of most common ways of rapidly producing a part. Heated material (most commonly – plastic) is used to extrude it through a nozzle and deposit on a surface layer by layer until the part is fully produced. FDM has become one of the most popular in rapid production area due to its low cost, available materials and versatility.Due to fact that part is made layer by layer and each additional layer is deposited on top of a layer that is already a little below material melting point, part maintains different mechanical properties in various directions. These varying mechanical properties affect the part usability in practical applications. Critical point is tensile strength.The objective of this paper is to research optimal processing parameters for FDM prototyping to improve tensile strength. Several rapid prototype models (tensile test samples) with various geometry of longitudinal reinforcement channels were built. As reinforcing material, the epoxy resin was used, because it has higher tensile strength when solid and allows filling channels with various geometry. All made samples were tested for tensile strength. Experiment was carried out to confirm the effectiveness of this approach. From the results, it is found how different amount of epoxy resin affects part tensile strength.
Artificial Neural Networks Used for Development Prediction of State-of-the-Art Surface Engineering Areas
Authors: Dobrzańska-Danikiewicz Anna Danuta , Trzaska Jacek , Sękala Agnieszka , Jagiełło Adam
Published: December 2014

The paper presents new, possible applications of artificial neural networks in the field of materials science and material engineering in relation to other artificial intelligence methods known and applied in this area. The most recent simulation experiments, the exemplary results of which are presented in this paper, point out that the scope of the existing applications of artificial neural networks can be extended to encompass new areas related to prediction of development of materials treatment and processing technologies. The goal of such research is to focus, intentionally, the areas of future research and investments on the most promising areas likely to yield the highest added value in the future together with mitigating a risk relating to such a process. The computational models created were used for creating multi-variant probabilistic scenarios of future events based on heuristic independent variables acquired in the process of multi-stage expert surveys. Dependencies were determined, in particular, between the probability of occurrence of alternative macro-scenarios of future events and the development of the relevant thematic areas of M1–M7 and P1–P7.
Hardened Steel Surface Waviness Created by Rolling Burnishing Process
Authors: Dzionk Stefan , Ścibiorski Bogdan
Published: December 2014

The surface of the finishing machined parts is defined mainly by roughness parameters. Growing demands on the part, especially mating sliding or rolling, require the specification of additional parameters, such as waviness parameters, particularly when there is significant resistance to seizing or noise reduction. This paper presents surface waviness characteristics of hardened burnished steel.
Development of the Method for Calculation of Plates to Ensure Optimization of Hull Thickness
Authors: Gornostajev Dmitri , Aryassov Gennady , Zhigailov Sergei
Published: December 2014

The problem of plates and shells under the effect of local loading was treated. In this paper, a direct solution for a round plate is proposed, which greatly raises its accuracy. The obtained results are generalized for shells of revolution. The result will be used in barge model calculations striving to increase accuracy of the calculations. It should help to decrease weight of the barge which is very important in order to increase load capacity of the barge. In order to solve equation in better tolerance, improved method of grids will be used. The proposed method will totally change current methods of calculation for the hull thickness due to its accuracy.
Modeling of an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Body for the Needs of Numerical Aerodynamic Investigations, Strength Analysis and Examinations of Free Vibrations
Authors: Kachel Stanisław , Kozakiewicz Adam
Published: December 2014

The paper presents a conceptual design for an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) of a MINI class, where the aircraft engineering is based on the parametrical approach with use of a master model. In addition, the algorithm for development of a virtual object is outlined as well. It is explained how grids are mapped on the surface of the UAV solid as well as applicability of these grids for aerodynamic modeling and strength analysis.
The Roughness of the Hardened Steel Surface Created by the Rolling-Burnishing Process
Authors: Ścibiorski Bogdan , Dzionk Stefan
Published: December 2014

Burnishing hard materials can be used as an alternative finishing process. This paper presents the results of burnishing hardened steel. The article discusses surface deformation that occurs during this process and depends on the selected parameters of the geometric structure of the force applied for surface burnishing.
Self-Organisation of the Heat Resistant Steel Structure Following Dynamic Non-Equilibrium Processes
Authors: Chausov Mykola , Maruschak Pavlo , Prentkovskis Olegas , Pylypenko Andriy , Berezin Valentyn , Volyanska Kateryna
Published: December 2014

Using an original experimental methodology and software for contactless investigation into strains applying the method of digital image correlation, conditions for DNP realization in the test setup with pre-set rigidity have been found. Strain velocities have been determined to be equal to 2...10 s–1 in the processes of forming and developing a dissipative structure of heat resistant steel under the DNP (dynamic non-equilibrium process).
Determination of the Speed of an Unmanned Rescue Vehicle
Authors: Zbrowski Andrzej , Jóźwik Wojciech
Published: December 2014

The article presents the process of determining the speed of an unmanned rescue vehicle.The conducted investigations involved a measurement system developed for testing dynamic lorries. The application of a test system for low-speed all-terrain vehicles was possible due to a wide measurement range of sensors. Speed was tested employing two following methods:an indirect method consisting of the measurement of the instantaneous rotational speed of the wheel;a direct method consisting of the measurement of speed against the ground, taken with an optical speed sensor.The authors also describe the sources of interferences characteristic of both methods that include:the wheelspin affecting the correctness of speed determination in the indirect measurement;the unevenness of the surface (ground) hindering the correct operation of the optical speed sensor.The paper also presents the characteristics of the rotational speed of the wheels obtained in road and off-road conditions. Based on the obtained signals, linear speed was determined. Additionally, the article discusses methods for eliminating measurement disturbances.
In memoriam of Prof. Mels van der Ploeg
Authors: Prosperi E. , Redi C. A.
Published: December 2014

In memoriam of Prof. Mels van der Ploeg
In Memoriam of Prof. Giovanni Mazzotti
Authors: Manzoli Francesco Antonio , Maraldi Nadir M. , Capitani Silvano , Cocco Lucio
Published: December 2014

In Memoriam of Prof. Giovanni Mazzotti
Botulinum toxin type A for cephalic cutaneous allodynia in chronic migraine: a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Hollanda Luciano , Monteiro Larissa , Melo Ailton
Published: December 2014

Cephalic allodynia (CA) can be observed in 50-70% of patients with chronic migraine (CM). The aim of this trial was to assess the efficacy of botulinum toxin type A (Botx-A) in the treatment of CA associated with CM. In this placebo-controlled trial, patients were randomized either into Botx-A or 0.9% saline injections and efficacy measures were assessed every 4 weeks for 3 months. Efficacy endpoints were number of migraine episodes associated with CA, changes from baseline in visual analogical scale scores for pain (VAS) and frequency of common analgesics use for migraine. A total of 38 subjects were randomized to saline (n=18) or Botx-A (n=20). There were no significant differences in baseline between active intervention or placebo groups regarding mean age, number of headache episodes [mean 12.1 (9.22) and 17.00 (9.69) respectively; P=0.12], pain severity as measured by the VAS or frequency of analgesic use for headache episodes. Efficacy analysis showed that Botx-A injections led to an important decrease from baseline in the mean migraine episodes associated with CA after 12 weeks (5.20 versus 11.17; P=0.01). Also, VAS scores and frequency of analgesics use for headache were significantly reduced in the Botx-A group. This study suggests that Botx-A injections are superior to saline in the treatment of CA associated with CM, with mild self limited side effects.
The impact of flood disasters on child education in Muzarabani District, Zimbabwe
Authors: Mudavanhu Chipo
Published: December 2014

The increase in flood intensity and frequency poses a threat to community infrastructure and affects the total well-being of children in regard to: access to food, health, school attendance, access to clean water and sanitation, physical and social security. Using both qualitative and quantitative data, this article provided an overview of flood disasters and their potential effects on children’s access to quality education in Zimbabwe. The purpose of the study was to analyse school children’s specific vulnerabilities to flood disasters that need to be taken into account in policy development. Research indicated that floods cause loss of learning hours, loss of qualified personnel, outbreak of waterborne diseases, high absenteeism and low syllabus coverage leading to children’s poor academic performance. Children noted a range of experiences, from food insecurity to being withdrawn from school and sometimes forced into early marriages. These challenges compromise children’s rights and access to quality education. This article therefore recommended that a culture of safety be promoted through disaster education, development of good road networks and enforcement of building codes during construction of school infrastructure. Findings also supported the need for adaptation strategies to ensure that the risks specific to school children are addressed.
Dynamics of intermodal logistical systems on containerisation and road transportation in Durban, South Africa
Authors: Govender Nerissa , Mbhele Thokozani P.
Published: December 2014

The underlying port operations in Durban, South Africa, epitomise intense global competitiveness in the intermodal logistics chain. The link between containerisation and theroad transport network can falter as a result of the dynamics of the logistics system. The main objective of the study was to establish the extent of the intermodal challenges of logistical systems on containerisation to which the role of intermodal sea–road freight transportation enhances the logistical competitiveness. It further examined the intermodal relationship on containerised freight between the challenges of containerisation processes and the effects on road freight transport mode. The impact of containerisation on intermodalism, the sea–road freight transport network and the technological attributes of security-based systems and logistical tracking protocols influence the systematic movement of containers on Durban’s public roads.
Effect of climate change and use of improved varieties on barley and canola yield in Manitoba
Authors: An Henry , Carew Richard
Published: December 2014

An, H. and Carew, R. 2015. Effect of climate change and use of improved varieties on barley and canola yield in Manitoba. Can. J. Plant Sci. 95: 127–139. A stochastic production function was estimated to investigate the effect of fertilizer inputs, changes in weather conditions and the use of improved varieties on barley and canola yields and its variability in Manitoba. Adoption of improved barley varieties did not have a significant effect on yield, while the adoption of herbicide-tolerant hybrid canola varieties was positively correlated with yield. An increasingly warmer climate in Manitoba is expected to have a slightly negative effect on mean barley yield and yield variance. In contrast, a warmer climate is expected to have a negligible effect on mean canola yield, but a positive effect on yield variability. Our results showed that a projected 50% increase in growing degree days would lead to a decrease of less than 1% in barley and canola yields.
Long-term forage dynamics in pastures sprayed with residual broadleaf herbicide: A test of legume recovery
Authors: Miller A. J. , Bork E. W. , Hall L. M. , Summers B.
Published: December 2014

Miller, A. J., Bork, E. W., Hall, L. M. and Summers, B. 2015. Long-term forage dynamics in pastures sprayed with residual broadleaf herbicide: A test of legume recovery. Can. J. Plant Sci. 95: 43–53. Legumes such as alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) and white clover (Trifolium repens L.) are important components of northern temperate pastures where they increase forage productivity and quality, but are susceptible to decline when exposed to broadleaf herbicides. Little is known about the long-term sward responses following herbicide use in northern temperate pastures, including the recovery of legumes and their subsequent contribution to forage production. We established five field sites over 2 yr to assess changes in grass, legume, total forage (grass+legume) and other forb biomass, as well as the recovery of a common weed, dandelion (Taraxacum officinale Weber), for up to 3 yr following a single application of two broad leaf herbicides with residual properties (aminopyralid and aminocyclopyrachlor). The importance of defoliation and the legume seed bank in facilitating legume biomass recovery were also evaluated with mowing and legume overseeding, respectively, in a strip/split-split design. Both herbicides had similar functional impacts on sward composition based on peak annual biomass, reducing legume biomass by an average of 71–100% across the 3 yr, equivalent to 63.4–22.6 g m−2 from year 1 to year 3, respectively. Although grass biomass did not change significantly with herbicides, net reductions in total forage were limited to 6.8% (28 g m−2) over the study, suggesting at least some ability of grasses to compensate for legume removal. Legume biomass was greater following overseeding and only in non-sprayed controls, but then decreased over time. Conversely, biomass of other forbs and cover of dandelion were lower shortly following herbicide application, only to reach levels similar to non-sprayed controls by the second growing season. Defoliation also influenced sward composition, favoring dandelion recovery following herbicide application. As both weed control and legume re-establishment are important objectives for livestock producers, the result of this study provides useful insight into the long-term impact of broad-leaf weed control on forage production in mixed swards of northern temperate pastures.
Effect of seeding date and depth, seed size and fungicide treatment on Fusarium and Pythium seedling blight of canola
Authors: Hwang S. F. , Ahmed H. U. , Turnbull G. D. , Gossen B. D. , Strelkov S. E.
Published: December 2014

Hwang, S. F., Ahmed, H. U., Turnbull, G. D., Gossen, B. D. and Strelkov, S. E. 2015. Effect of seeding date and depth, seed size and fungicide treatment on Fusarium and Pythium seedling blight of canola. Can. J. Plant Sci. 95: 293–301. Seedling blight has a substantial impact on stand establishment and productivity of canola (Brassica napus) on the Canadian prairies. The effects of seeding date, seed size, seeding depth, and seed treatment fungicides on seedling blight of canola caused by Fusarium avenaceum and Pythium ultimum were evaluated under field conditions. In the trials inoculated with P. ultimum, early seeding reduced seedling emergence and seed yield in all 3 yr of the study. However, the interaction of F. avenaceum with seeding date was not consistent; inoculation with F. avenaceum reduced seedling emergence in early seeded canola in 1 of 4 yr, but emergence was higher in early than in mid-seeded treatments in 2 yr and there was no difference among seeding dates in 1 yr. Late seeding reduced seed yield in 2 of 4 yr in the F. avenaceum study. Seed size and seeding depth generally did not have an effect on seedling establishment or seed yield for either pathogen. Seed treatment with Helix Xtra (thiamethoxam+difenconazole+metalaxyl+fludioxonil) and Prosper FX (clothianidin+carboxin+trifloxystrobin+metalaxyl) fungicides increased seedling emergence and yield compared with the F. avenaceum-inoculated control. Seed treatment with Helix Xtra also increased seedling emergence and seed yield compared with the P. ultimum-inoculated control. Manipulation of seeding date did not substantially improve stand establishment or yield of canola when inoculum pressure was high. Seed treatment was the most effective strategy for reducing losses caused by seedling blight of canola in fields infested with F. avenaceum or P. ultimum.
Blocked Voice Prosthesis: A Common Complication Reducing the Prosthesis Longevity
Authors: Naik Sudhir , Halkud Rajshekar , Siddappa KT , Shivappa Akshay , Biswas Siddharth , Shenoy Ashok M , Sunil KC , Samskruthi M , Sarvadyna Jagdish , Chavan Purshottam
Published: December 2014

Background/Objectives

Mechanical prosthetic valve rehabili tation after total laryngectomy have a success rates of 90% in restoring voice. The effective speech is achieved better with mechanical voice prosthesis when compared to esophageal speech and electrolarynx. Candidal growth and tubal blockage are the commonest cause of peri and endotubal leakage causing prosthesis failure.

Case report

A 50-year-old male who had undergone wide field laryngectomy with primary tracheoesophageal puncture (TEP) with voice prosthesis 18 months back complained of blocked voice prosthesis and peritubal leakage. The tip of the cleaning brush which had blocked the opening was removed in the outpa tients under topical anesthesia and the peritubal block reduced.

Conclusion

Mechanical valve prosthesis rehabilitation after primary tracheoesophageal puncture is the standard voice rehabilitation of laryngectomized patients. Patient education regarding maintenance of the prosthesis and the care for the tracheostoma is important in reducing the complications.

How to cite this article

Halkud R, Shenoy AM, Sunil KC, Samskruthi M, Sarvadyna J, Biswas S, Chavan P, Siddappa KT, Shivappa A, Naik SM. Blocked voice Prosthesis: A Common Complication Reducing the Prosthesis Longevity. Int J Head Neck Surg 2014;5(2):66-71.
Oronasal Bleed: A Rare Case of Carotid Cavernous Sinus Fistula
Authors: Mittal Mudit
Published: December 2014

An intractable oronasal bleed following a craniofacial trauma due to traumatic carotid cavernous sinus fistula is an uncommon condition with very few cases reported in literature, not specific to ORL bleed. Moreover, symptoms of carotid cavernous sinus fistula usually do not develop immediately after trauma. The clinical presentations can be varied as well, mimicking diseases like multiple sclerosis, brain tumors or stroke.

The purpose of reporting this case is to emphasize the importance of early suspicion of this pathology, its clinical course and special attention to radiological studies. Here, we are reporting a successfully treated case of carotid cavernous sinus fistula with intractable oronasal bleed following a craniofacial trauma.

How to cite this article

Mittal M, Oronasal Bleed: A Rare Case of Carotid Cavernous Sinus Fistula. Int J Head Neck Surg 2014;5(2):87-88.
Oropharyngeal Tuberculosis—Mimicking Oral Cavity Carcinoma
Authors: Passey JC , Brar Tripti , Arora Nikhil , Agarwal Arun Kumar
Published: December 2014

Tuberculosis still represents a major health problem in develop ing countries like india. in majority of patients the infectious process is contained but very rarely infection can spread to sites like oral cavity where it mimicks carcinoma and can put clinician in jeopardy. A case of such a rare presentation of oropharyngeal tuberculosis is presented.

How to cite this article

Arora N, Brar T, Passey JC, Agarwal AK. Oropharyngeal Tuberculosis—Mimicking Oral Cavity Carcinoma. Int J Head Neck Surg 2014;5(2):9495.
Effectiveness of Exercise Therapy and its Variations in Lower Limb Osteoarthritis: A Literature Review
Authors: Sharma Meenakshi , Sharma Siddhartha , Dhillon Himmat S
Published: December 2014

Osteoarthritis is an irreversible, progressive, degenerative joint disorder of multifactorial etiology that commonly affects weight-bearing joints and leads to pain, loss of movement and functional limitation. Exercise therapy has been shown to be beneficial in osteoarthritis, in terms of decreased pain, improved motion and improved functional outcomes. This review aims to look at some of the common as well as newer modalities of exercise therapy for osteoarthritis (OA), such as strength, training, stretching, agility training, aquatic exercises, Tai Chi and combinations of these modalities.

How to cite this article

Dhillon HS, Sharma M, Sharma S. Effectiveness of Exercise Therapy and its Variations in Lower Limb Osteoarthritis: A Literature Review. J Postgrad Med Edu Res 2014;48(4):190-196.
Doing Events Research: From Theory to Practice
Authors: Runeson Göran
Published: December 2014

A review of the book, entitled "Doing Events Research: From Theory to Practice"
Liquid water absorption and scattering effects in DOAS retrievals over oceans
Authors: Peters E. , Wittrock F. , Richter A. , Alvarado L. M. A. , Rozanov V. V. , Burrows J. P.
Published: December 2014

Abstract. Spectral effects of liquid water are present in absorption (differential optical absorption spectroscopy – DOAS) measurements above the ocean and, if insufficiently removed, may interfere with trace gas absorptions, leading to wrong results. Currently available literature cross sections of liquid water absorption are provided in coarser resolution than DOAS applications require, and vibrational Raman scattering (VRS) is mostly not considered, or is compensated for using simulated pseudo cross sections from radiative transfer modeling. During the ship-based TransBrom campaign across the western Pacific in October 2009, MAX-DOAS (Multi-AXis differential optical absorption spectroscopy) measurements of light penetrating very clear natural waters were performed, achieving average underwater light paths of up to 50 m. From these measurements, the retrieval of a correction spectrum (H2Ocorr) is presented, compensating simultaneously for insufficiencies in the liquid water absorption cross section and broad-banded VRS structures. Small-banded structures caused by VRS were found to be very efficiently compensated for by the intensity offset correction included in the DOAS fit. No interference between the H2Ocorr spectrum and phytoplankton absorption was found. In the MAX-DOAS tropospheric NO2 retrieval, this method was able to compensate entirely for all liquid water effects that decrease the fit quality, and performed better than using a liquid water cross section in combination with a simulated VRS spectrum. The decrease in the residual root mean square (rms) of the DOAS fit depends on the measurement's contamination with liquid water structures, and ranges from ≈ 30% for measurements slightly towards the water surface to several percent in small angles above the horizon. Furthermore, the H2Ocorr spectrum was found to prevent misfits of NO2 slant columns, especially for very low NO2 scenarios, and thus increases the reliability of the fit. In test fits on OMI satellite data, the H2Ocorr spectrum was found selectively above ocean surfaces, where it decreases the rms by up to ≈ 11%.
Implications of carbon saturation model structures for simulated nitrogen mineralization dynamics
Authors: White C. M. , Kemanian A. R. , Kaye J. P.
Published: December 2014

Abstract. Carbon (C) saturation theory suggests that soils have a limited capacity to stabilize organic C and that this capacity may be regulated by intrinsic soil properties such as clay concentration and mineralogy. While C saturation theory has advanced our ability to predict soil C stabilization, few biogeochemical ecosystem models have incorporated C saturation mechanisms. In biogeochemical models, C and nitrogen (N) cycling are tightly coupled, with C decomposition and respiration driving N mineralization. Thus, changing model structures from non-saturation to C saturation dynamics can change simulated N dynamics. In this study, we used C saturation models from the literature and of our own design to compare how different methods of modeling C saturation affected simulated N mineralization dynamics. Specifically, we tested (i) how modeling C saturation by regulating either the transfer efficiency (ε, g C retained g−1 C respired) or transfer rate (k) of C to stabilized pools affected N mineralization dynamics, (ii) how inclusion of an explicit microbial pool through which C and N must pass affected N mineralization dynamics, and (iii) whether using ε to implement C saturation in a model results in soil texture controls on N mineralization that are similar to those currently included in widely used non-saturating C and N models. Models were parameterized so that they rendered the same C balance. We found that when C saturation is modeled using ε, the critical C : N ratio for N mineralization from decomposing plant residues (rcr) increases as C saturation of a soil increases. When C saturation is modeled using k, however, rcr is not affected by the C saturation of a soil. Inclusion of an explicit microbial pool in the model structure was necessary to capture short-term N immobilization–mineralization turnover dynamics during decomposition of low N residues. Finally, modeling C saturation by regulating ε led to similar soil texture controls on N mineralization as a widely used non-saturating model, suggesting that C saturation may be a fundamental mechanism that can explain N mineralization patterns across soil texture gradients. These findings indicate that a coupled C and N model that includes saturation can (1) represent short-term N mineralization by including a microbial pool and (2) express the effects of texture on N turnover as an emergent property.
Microbial food web dynamics during spring phytoplankton blooms in the naturally iron-fertilized Kerguelen area (Southern Ocean)
Authors: Christaki U. , Lefèvre D. , Georges C. , Colombet J. , Catala P. , Courties C. , Sime-Ngando T. , Blain S. , Obernosterer I.
Published: December 2014

Abstract. Microbial food web dynamics were determined during the onset of several spring phytoplankton blooms induced by natural iron fertilization off Kerguelen Island in the Southern Ocean (KEOPS2). The abundances of heterotrophic bacteria and heterotrophic nanoflagellates, bacterial heterotrophic production, bacterial respiration, and bacterial growth efficiency, were consistently higher in surface waters of the iron-fertilized sites than at the reference site in HNLC (high nutrient low chlorophyll) waters. The abundance of virus-like particles remained unchanged, but viral production increased by a factor of 6 in iron-fertilized waters. Bacterial heterotrophic production was significantly related to heterotrophic nanoflagellate abundance and viral production across all sites, with bacterial production explaining about 70 and 85%, respectively, of the variance of each in the mixed layer (ML). Estimated rates of grazing and viral lysis, however, indicated that heterotrophic nanoflagellates accounted for a substantially higher loss of bacterial production (50%) than viruses (11%). Combining these results with rates of primary production and export determined for the study area, a budget for the flow of carbon through the microbial food web and higher trophic levels during the early (KEOPS2) and the late phase (KEOPS1) of the Kerguelen bloom is provided.
Observation-based modelling of permafrost carbon fluxes with accounting for deep carbon deposits and thermokarst activity
Authors: Schneider von Deimling T. , Grosse G. , Strauss J. , Schirrmeister L. , Morgenstern A. , Schaphoff S. , Meinshausen M. , Boike J.
Published: December 2014

Abstract. High-latitude soils store vast amounts of perennially frozen and therefore inert organic matter. With rising global temperatures and consequent permafrost degradation, a part of this carbon store will become available for microbial decay and eventual release to the atmosphere. We have developed a simplified, two-dimensional multi-pool model to estimate the strength and timing of future carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) fluxes from newly thawed permafrost carbon (i.e. carbon thawed when temperatures rise above pre-industrial levels). We have especially simulated carbon release from deep deposits in Yedoma regions by describing abrupt thaw under thermokarst lakes. The computational efficiency of our model allowed us to run large, multi-centennial ensembles under various scenarios of future warming to express uncertainty inherent to simulations of the permafrost-carbon feedback. Under moderate warming of the representative concentration pathway (RCP) 2.6 scenario, cumulated CO2 fluxes from newly thawed permafrost carbon amount to 20 to 58 petagrammes of carbon (Pg-C) (68% range) by the year 2100 and reach 40 to 98 Pg-C in 2300. The much larger permafrost degradation under strong warming (RCP8.5) results in cumulated CO2 release of 42–141 and 157–313 Pg-C (68% ranges) in the years 2100 and 2300, respectively. Our estimates do only consider fluxes from newly thawed permafrost but not from soils already part of the seasonally thawed active layer under preindustrial climate. Our simulated methane fluxes contribute a few percent to total permafrost carbon release yet they can cause up to 40% of total permafrost-affected radiative forcing in the 21st century (upper 68% range). We infer largest methane emission rates of about 50 Tg-CH4 year–1 around the mid of the 21st century when simulated thermokarst lake extent is at its maximum and when abrupt thaw under thermokarst lakes is accounted for. CH4 release from newly thawed carbon in wetland-affected deposits is only discernible in the 22nd and 23rd century because of the absence of abrupt thaw processes. We further show that release from organic matter stored in deep deposits of Yedoma regions does crucially affect our simulated circumpolar methane fluxes. The additional warming through the release from newly thawed permafrost carbon proved only slightly dependent on the pathway of anthropogenic emission and amounts about 0.03–0.14 °C (68% ranges) by end of the century. The warming increased further in the 22nd and 23rd century and was most pronounced under the RCP6.0 scenario with adding 0.16–0.39 °C (68% range) to simulated global mean surface air temperatures in the year 2300.
The shift of microbial population composition accompanying the injected water flowing in the water-flooding petroleum reservoirs
Authors: Gao P. K. , Li G. Q. , Tian H. M. , Wang Y. S. , Sun H. W. , Ma T.
Published: December 2014

Abstract. In water-flooding petroleum reservoir, microbial populations in injected water are expected to migrate into oil-bearing strata and reach production wells. To demonstrate this, we firstly investigated microbial compositions in a homogeneous sandstone reservoir. The results indicated that the injected water harbored more microbial cells than produced water, and the shared populations and their abundance accounted for a minor fraction in injected water, while dominated in produced water, suggesting that most populations in injected water did hardly reach production wells in this reservoir. We further investigated microbial communities in water samples collected from wellhead and downhole of injection wells and production wells in a heterogeneous conglomerate reservoir. The results indicated that, except for the community reconstruction mainly resulted from dissolved oxygen, most populations were simultaneously detected in the wellhead and downhole of injection wells and production wells, suggesting that most microbial populations in injected water reached the production wells. This study suggest that microbial populations in injected water can pass through reservoir strata and reach production wells, but the reservoir heterogeneity, interwell spacing, sieve effect of strata and dissolved oxygen exert significant influence on microbial migration and distribution in reservoirs.
The ocean carbon sink – impacts, vulnerabilities, and challenges
Authors: Heinze C. , Meyer S. , Goris N. , Anderson L. , Steinfeldt R. , Chang N. , Le Quéré C. , Bakker D. C. E.
Published: December 2014

Abstract. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is, next to water vapour, considered to be the most important natural greenhouse gas on Earth. Rapidly rising atmospheric CO2 concentrations caused by human actions such as fossil-fuel burning, land-use change or cement production over the past 250 years have given cause for concern that changes in Earth's climate system may progress at a much faster pace and larger extent than during the past 20 000 years. Investigating global carbon cycle pathways and finding suitable mitigation strategies has, therefore, become of major concern in many research fields. The oceans have a key role in regulating atmospheric CO2 concentrations and currently take up about 25% of annual anthropogenic carbon emissions to the atmosphere. Questions that yet need to be answered are what the carbon uptake kinetics of the oceans will be in the future and how the increase in oceanic carbon load will affect its ecosystems and their services. This requires comprehensive investigations, including high-quality ocean carbon measurements on different spatial and temporal scales, the management of data in sophisticated data bases, the application of state-of-the-art Earth system models to provide future projections for given emission scenarios as well as a global synthesis and outreach to policy makers. In this paper, the current understanding of the ocean as an important carbon sink is reviewed with respect to these topics. Emphasis is placed on the complex interplay of different physical, chemical, and biological processes that yield both positive and negative air–sea flux values for natural and anthropogenic CO2 as well as on increased CO2 (uptake) as the regulating force of the radiative warming of the atmosphere and the gradual acidification of the oceans. Major future ocean carbon challenges in the fields of ocean observations, modelling, and process research as well as the relevance of other biogeochemical cycles and greenhouse gases are discussed.
Non-singular spherical harmonic expressions of geomagnetic vector and gradient tensor fields in the local north-oriented reference frame
Authors: Du J. , Chen C. , Lesur V. , Wang L.
Published: December 2014

Abstract. General expressions of magnetic vector (MV) and magnetic gradient tensor (MGT) in terms of the first- and second-order derivatives of spherical harmonics at different degrees and orders, are relatively complicated and singular at the poles. In this paper, we derived alternative non-singular expressions for the MV, the MGT and also the higher-order partial derivatives of the magnetic field in local north-oriented reference frame. Using our newly derived formulae, the magnetic potential, vector and gradient tensor fields at an altitude of 300 km are calculated based on a global lithospheric magnetic field model GRIMM_L120 (version 0.0) and the main magnetic field model of IGRF11. The corresponding results at the poles are discussed and the validity of the derived formulas is verified using the Laplace equation of the potential field.
Hydrological dynamics of water sources in a Mediterranean lagoon
Authors: Stumpp C. , Ekdal A. , Gönenc I. E. , Maloszewski P.
Published: December 2014

Abstract. Lagoons are important ecosystems occupying large coastal areas worldwide. Lagoons contain various mixtures of marine and freshwater sources which are highly dynamic in time. However, it often remains a challenge to identify and quantify dynamic changes of water sources, particularly in heterogeneous lagoon systems like the Köycegiz–Dalyan lagoon (KDL), which is located at the south-west of Turkey on the Mediterranean Sea coast. The objective of this study was to quantify different contributions of potential water sources i.e. surface water, groundwater and seawater in the lagoon and how these water sources changed over time and space. In the wet- and dry-season stable isotopes of water, chloride concentration (Cl-) and salinity were measured in two depths in the lagoon and surrounding water bodies (sea, lake, groundwater). Different components of water sources were quantified with a three component endmember mixing analysis. Differences in Cl- and stable isotopes over time indicated the dynamic behaviour of the system. Generally, none of the groundwater samples was impacted by water of the Mediterranean Sea. During the wet season, most of the lagoon water (> 95%) was influenced by freshwater and vertically well mixed. During the dry season, high Cl- in the deeper sampling locations indicated a high contribution of marine water throughout the entire lagoon system due to saltwater intrusion. However, a distinct layering in the lagoon was obvious from low Cl- and depleted isotope contents close to the surface supporting freshwater inflow into the system even during the dry season. Besides temporal dynamics also spatial heterogeneities were identified. Changes in water sources were most evident in the main lagoon channel compared to more isolate lagoon lakes, which were influenced by marine water even in the wet season, and compared to side branches indicating slower turnover times. We found that environmental tracers helped to quantify highly dynamic and heterogeneous contributions of different water sources in the Köycegiz–Dalyan lagoon.
A constraint-based search algorithm for parameter identification of environmental models
Authors: Gharari S. , Shafiei M. , Hrachowitz M. , Kumar R. , Fenicia F. , Gupta H. V. , Savenije H. H. G.
Published: December 2014

Abstract. Many environmental systems models, such as conceptual rainfall-runoff models, rely on model calibration for parameter identification. For this, an observed output time series (such as runoff) is needed, but frequently not available (e.g., when making predictions in ungauged basins). In this study, we provide an alternative approach for parameter identification using constraints based on two types of restrictions derived from prior (or expert) knowledge. The first, called parameter constraints, restricts the solution space based on realistic relationships that must hold between the different model parameters while the second, called process constraints requires that additional realism relationships between the fluxes and state variables must be satisfied. Specifically, we propose a search algorithm for finding parameter sets that simultaneously satisfy such constraints, based on stepwise sampling of the parameter space. Such parameter sets have the desirable property of being consistent with the modeler's intuition of how the catchment functions, and can (if necessary) serve as prior information for further investigations by reducing the prior uncertainties associated with both calibration and prediction.
The connection between long-term and short-term risk management strategies for flood and landslide hazards: examples from land-use planning and emergency management in four European case studies
Authors: Prenger-Berninghoff K. , Cortes V. J. , Sprague T. , Aye Z. C. , Greiving S. , Głowacki W. , Sterlacchini S.
Published: December 2014

Abstract. Adaptation to complex and unforeseen events requires enhancing the links between planning and preparedness phases to reduce future risks in the most efficient way. In this context, the legal–administrative and cultural context has to be taken into account. This is why four case study areas of the CHANGES1 project (Nehoiu Valley in Romania, Ubaye Valley in France, Val Canale in Italy, and Wieprzówka catchment in Poland) serve as examples to highlight currently implemented risk management strategies for land-use planning and emergency preparedness. The focus is particularly on flood and landslide hazards. The strategies described in this paper were identified by means of exploratory and informal interviews in each study site. Results reveal that a dearth or, in very few cases, a weak link exists between spatial planners and emergency managers. Management strategies could benefit from formally intensifying coordination and cooperation between emergency services and spatial planning authorities. Moreover, limited financial funds urge for a more efficient use of resources and better coordination towards long-term activities. The research indicates potential benefits to establishing or, in some cases, strengthening this link through contextual changes, e.g., in organizational or administrative structures, that facilitate proper interaction between risk management and spatial planning. It also provides suggestions for further development in the form of information and decision support systems as a key connection point. 1 Marie Curie ITN CHANGES – Changing Hydro-meteorological Risks as Analyzed by a New Generation of European Scientists
Geomorphological surveys and software simulations for rock fall hazard assessment: a case study in the Italian Alps
Authors: Devoto S. , Boccali C. , Podda F.
Published: December 2014

Abstract. In northern Italy, fast-moving landslides represent a significant threat to the population and human facilities. In the eastern portion of the Italian Alps, rock falls are recurrent and are often responsible for casualties or severe damage to roads and buildings. The above-cited type of landslide is frequent in mountain ranges, is characterised by strong relief energy and is triggered by earthquakes or copious rainfall, which often exceed 2000 mm yr−1. These factors cause morphological dynamics with intense slope erosion and degradation processes. This work investigates the appraisal of the rock-fall hazard related to the presence of several large unstable blocks located at the top of a limestone peak, approximately 500 m NW with respect to the Village of Cimolais. Field surveys recognised a limestone block exceeding a volume of 400 m3 and identified this block as the most hazardous for Cimolais Village because of its proximity to the rocky cliff. A first assessment of the possible transit and stop areas has been investigated through in-depth traditional activities, such as geomorphological mapping and aerial photo analysis. The output of field surveys was a detailed land use map, which provided a fundamental starting point for rock fall software analysis. The geomorphological observations were correlated with DTMs derived by regional topography and Airborne Laser Scanning (ALS) surveys to recognise possible rock fall routes. To simulate properly rock fall trajectories with a hybrid computer program, particular attention was devoted to the correct quantification of rates of input parameters, such as restitution coefficients and horizontal acceleration associated to earthquakes, which historically occur in this portion of Italy. The simulation outputs regarding the distribution of rock fall end points and kinetic energy along rock falling paths highlight the hazardous situation for Cimolais Village. Because of this reason, mitigation works have been suggested to immediately reduce the landslide risk. This proposal accounts for the high volume of blocks, which, in case of a fall, render the passive mitigation measures already in place at the back of Cimolais worthless.
Dependence of sandpile avalanche frequency–size distribution on coverage extent and compactness of embedded toppling threshold heterogeneity: implications for the variation of Gutenberg–Richter b value
Authors: Chiao L.-Y. , Liu Q.
Published: December 2014

Abstract. The effects of the spatiotemporal evolution of failure threshold heterogeneity on the dynamics of fault criticality, and thus on regional seismogenesis, have attracted strong interest in the field of regional seismotectonics. The heterogeneity might be a manifestation of the macroscopic distribution and multiscale strength variation of asperities, the distinct regional stress level, and (microscopically) heterogeneous fault surface roughness or friction regimes. In this study, rather than attempting to mimic the complex microscale slipping physics on a fault surface, sandpile cellular automata were implemented with a straightforward toppling rule. The objective is to examine the influence of distinct configurations of the embedded heterogeneous toppling threshold field on the global system avalanche event statistics. The examination results revealed that increasing the coverage extent and decreasing the compactness of the heterogeneous failure threshold, rather than the magnitude, range of contrast, diversity, or the geometric configuration of the threshold heterogeneity, leads to a systematic increase in the scaling exponent of the avalanche event power law statistics, implying the importance of mutual interaction among toppling sites with distinct thresholds. For tectonic provinces with differing stress regimes evolving spatio temporally, it is postulated that the distinct extent and compactness of the heterogeneous failure threshold are critical factors that manifest in the reported dynamic variations of seismicity scaling.
Comparison of aeolian snow transport events and snow mass fluxes between observations and simulations made by the regional climate model MAR in Adélie Land, East Antarctica
Authors: Trouvilliez A. , Gallée H. , Naaim-Bouvet F. , Genthon C. , Amory C. , Favier V. , Agosta C. , Piard L. , Bellot H.
Published: December 2014

Abstract. The regional climate model MAR including a coupled snow pack/aeolian snow transport parameterisation is compared with aeolian snow mass fluxes at a fine spatial resolution (5 km horizontally and 2 m vertically) and at a fine temporal resolution (30 min) over 1 month in Antarctica. Numerous feedbacks are taken into account in the MAR including the drag partitioning caused by the roughness elements. Wind speed is correctly simulated with a positive value of the Nash test (0.60 and 0.37) but the wind speeds above 10 m s−1 are underestimated. The aeolian snow transport events are correctly reproduced with a good temporal resolution except for the aeolian snow transport events with a particles' maximum height below 1 m. The simulated threshold friction velocity, calculated without snowfall, is overestimated. The simulated aeolian snow mass fluxes between 0 to 2 m have the same variations but are underestimated compared to the second-generation FlowCapt values and so is the simulated relative humidity at 2 m. This underestimation is not entirely due to the underestimation of the simulated wind speed. The MAR underestimates the aeolian snow quantity that pass through the first two meters by a factor ten compared to the second-generation FlowCapt value (13 990 kg m−1 and 151 509 kg m−1 respectively). It will conduct the MAR, with this parametrisation, to underestimate the effect of the aeolian snow transport on the Antarctic surface mass balance.
Gossypiboma diagnosed fifteen years after a cesarean section: A case report
Authors: Rehman Abdul , Baloch Noor Ul-Ain , Awais Muhammad
Published: December 2014

Gossypiboma, a retained surgical sponge, is a rare complication following any surgical procedure and is primarily a result of human error. Such patients often have vague clinical presentations and the diagnosis often comes as a surprise. We present the case of a 40-year-old woman who had a long-standing history of lower abdominal discomfort. She was diagnosed with a gossypiboma fifteen years after a cesarean section. All general physicians, surgeons and radiologists must be aware of this rare but clinically significant entity.