bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Existence of semilinear elliptic equations with prescribed limiting behaviour
Authors: Ibrahim Hassan , Nasreddine Elissar
Published: February 2016

In this paper, we consider semilinear elliptic equations of the form Δu + f(u) = 0 over a quarter space with Dirichlet boundary conditions. Given a suitable positive root z of f, we show how to construct a non‐negative bounded solution u converging to a one‐dimensional limiting profile V with V
. This is established using Perron's method by constructing sub‐solutions and super‐solutions and employing a sliding argument. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Global existence of three dimensional incompressible MHD flows
Authors: Wang Yu‐Zhu , Li Pengfei
Published: February 2016

We investigate the initial value problem for the three‐dimensional incompressible magnetohydrodynamics flows. Global existence and uniqueness of flows are established in the function space
, provided that the norm of the initial data is less than the minimal value of the viscosity coefficients of the flows. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the Caginalp phase‐field systems with two temperatures and the Maxwell–Cattaneo law
Authors: Miranville Alain , Quintanilla Ramon
Published: February 2016

Our aim in this paper is to study generalizations of the nonconserved and conserved Caginalp phase‐field systems based on the Maxwell–Cattaneo law with two temperatures for heat conduction. In particular, we obtain well‐posedness results and study the dissipativity of the associated solution operators. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Golden angle dual‐inversion recovery acquisition coupled with a flexible time‐resolved sparse reconstruction facilitates sequence timing in high‐resolution coronary vessel wall MRI at 3 T
Authors: Ginami Giulia , Yerly Jérôme , Masci Pier Giorgio , Stuber Matthias
Published: February 2016

Purpose

The need for performing dual‐inversion recovery (DIR) coronary vessel wall MRI in correspondence to minimal cardiac motion and optimal blood signal nulling is a major challenge. We propose to address this hurdle by combining DIR with a prolonged acquisition window in conjunction with a golden angle radial trajectory and k‐t sparse sensitivity encoding (SENSE) reconstruction to enable a flexible a‐posteriori selection of optimized imaging parameters.

Methods

Coronary vessel wall data acquisition was performed with DIR golden angle radial imaging in n=15 healthy subjects. Images reconstructed using k‐t sparse SENSE and different reconstruction window settings were quantitatively (vessel wall conspicuity, thickness, acquisition, and reconstruction window settings) compared with those obtained with more conventional radial DIR imaging.

Results

A flexible retrospective selection of the reconstruction window width and position improved vessel wall conspicuity with respect to baseline acquisitions (P < 0.01). Vessel wall thickness remained unchanged (P = nonsignificant (NS)). Temporal window widths were similar for both approaches (P = NS), yet their position within the cardiac cycle differed significantly (P < 0.02).

Conclusions

A flexible DIR coronary vessel wall MRI technique that alleviates constraints associated with sophisticated sequence timing was proposed. When compared with a more conventional approach, the technique significantly improved image quality. Magn Reson Med 77:961–969, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine
Sensitivity and specificity of human brain glutathione concentrations measured using short‐TE 1H MRS at 7 T
Authors: Deelchand Dinesh K. , Marjańska Małgorzata , Hodges James S. , Terpstra Melissa
Published: February 2016

Although the MR editing techniques that have traditionally been used for the measurement of glutathione (GSH) concentrations in vivo address the problem of spectral overlap, they suffer detriments associated with inherently long TEs. The purpose of this study was to characterize the sensitivity and specificity for the quantification of GSH concentrations without editing at short TE. The approach was to measure synthetically generated changes in GSH concentrations from in vivo stimulated echo acquisition mode (STEAM) spectra after in vitro GSH spectra had been added to or subtracted from them. Spectra from five test subjects were synthetically altered to mimic changes in the GSH signal. To account for different background noise between measurements, retest spectra (from the same individuals as used to generate the altered data) and spectra from five other individuals were compared with the synthetically altered spectra to investigate the reliability of the quantification of GSH concentration. Using STEAM spectroscopy at 7 T, GSH concentration differences on the order of 20% were detected between test and retest studies, as well as between differing populations in a small sample (n = 5) with high accuracy (R2 > 0.99) and certainty (p ≤ 0.01). Both increases and decreases in GSH concentration were reliably quantified with small impact on the quantification of ascorbate and γ‐aminobutyric acid. These results show the feasibility of using short‐TE 1H MRS to measure biologically relevant changes and differences in human brain GSH concentration. Although these outcomes are specific to the experimental approach used and the spectral quality achieved, this study serves as a template for the analogous scrutiny of quantification reliability for other compounds, methodologies and spectral qualities. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
From last supper to self‐initiated weight loss: Pretreatment weight change may be more important than previously thought
Authors: Kerrigan Stephanie G. , Schaumberg Katherine , Kase Colleen , Gaspar Monika , Forman Evan , Butryn Meghan L.
Published: February 2016

Objective

Evaluate the association between pretreatment and during‐treatment weight change, as well as differences in self‐regulation between those who gain weight, remain weight stable, and lose weight pretreatment.

Methods

Data from the first 6 months of a behavioral weight loss study were used. Participants (n = 283) were weighed at two assessment points (screening visit and baseline) prior to the start of treatment and at every treatment session. Participants were divided into those who gained weight, remained weight stable, or lost weight between the screening visit and the first treatment session.

Results

Pretreatment weight change was not significantly associated with during‐treatment change. Weight change from the screening visit to month 6 was significantly different by category, with losses of 11% and 7% for those who lost and gained weight pretreatment, respectively. Weight change from first treatment session to month 6 was not different by category. Poorer self‐regulation was associated with pretreatment weight gain and better self‐regulation with pretreatment weight loss.

Conclusions

Pretreatment weight change may not relate to success during behavioral weight loss treatment. Researchers should carefully consider when the “baseline” assessment takes place to reduce bias introduced by pretreatment weight change. Poorer self‐regulation may place individuals at risk for weight gain prior to treatment.
Effects of processing steps and hygrothermal ageing on mechanical performance of PA6GF30 composite: Interfacial shear strength
Authors: Ksouri Imen , Guermazi Noamen , Haddar Nader , Ayedi H. Ferid
Published: February 2016

Polyamide 6 reinforced with glass fiber was prepared using extrusion compounding and injection molding processes. The effect of processing steps on the orientation and the fiber length were investigated. Optical observations shows that the fibers are predominantly orientated parallel to the main mold flow direction. In addition, the measurements of fiber length after both extrusion and injection molding reveal a clear shortening effect of these techniques on their length. Such reduction results probably from the fiber–machine, fiber–fiber, and fiber–polymer interactions. Afterwards, mechanical characterizations were performed on samples before and after ageing in distilled water and glycol–water mixture. The mechanical characteristics were then used as input parameters in the Kelly–Tyson model. Subsequently, the evolution of mechanical properties, the fiber/matrix bond strengths and reinforcement efficiency of the studied material were deeply discussed in both states. Results reveal that a full immersion in either distilled water or glycol–water mixture, affects significantly the interfacial fiber/matrix region as obviously confirmed by SEM observations. So, a decrease of the interfacial shear strength value was recorded. Accordingly, the reinforcement efficiency is extremely reduced after hygrothermal ageing leading to an overall fall in mechanical parameters. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:504–512, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Properties of polymer composites based on bisphenolAepoxy resins with original/modified steel slag
Authors: Guzel Gulcihan , Deveci Huseyin
Published: February 2016

Recently, many inorganic solid wastes have accumulated as a byproduct in several industries and their storage is one of the major problems. Among these wastes, steel slag has attracted attention to utilize with different purposes. In this study, original steel slag (OS) and modified steel slag (MS) were evaluated as a filler to prepare low‐cost epoxy composites. The effect of components on the properties of steel slag/epoxy composites (SECs) was investigated with various analyses and tests. Physicomechanical and thermal properties of the SECs were compared with each other and neat epoxy resin (ER). Good dispersion of OS and MS in the ER matrix was determined with X‐ray diffraction (XRD) pattern and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Tensile strength, Young modulus, and hardness values of the SECs were enhanced after modification of OS. Any change on adhesion and corrosion resistance of the SECs was not observed; however water sorption percent was increased with the addition of components. As per thermogravimetric analyses (TGA) and vicat softening temperature (VST) analyses, SECs cured with anhydride showed higher decomposition temperature than the other hardener. Also, PEG addition slightly decreased thermal stability of the SECs. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:513–521, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Investigation of rare‐earth metal‐doped Ba0.96Sr0.04Zr0.04Ti0.96O3 ceramics
Authors: Zhang X. S. , Sun X. J. , Chen X. Y. , Zhang D. Y. , Yu P.
Published: February 2016

The dielectric properties of Ba0.96Sr0.04Zr0.04LnxTi0.96–xO3–δ (Ln = Y, Dy, Gd, Yb) ceramics were investigated in this work. The permittivity dependence on temperature showed the Curie temperature of the investigated ceramic samples was around 100 °C. The permittivity (>10000) at room temperature is obtained when the x is 0.004 and 0.003 for Y3+ and Dy3+, respectively. The origin of the dielectric abnormality may result from the amphoteric properties of Y3+ and Dy3+.
Structural and optical properties of a‐SiOx:H thin films deposited by the GJ EBP CVD method
Authors: Baranov Evgeniy , Khmel Sergey , Zamchiy Alexandr , Buyko Maxim
Published: February 2016

In this work, hydrogenated amorphous silicon suboxide (a‐SiOx:H) thin films have been prepared by gas‐jet electron beam plasma chemical vapor deposition method (GJ EBP CVD) at a substrate temperature 260 °C. The argon to monosilane ratio R = [Ar]/[SiH4] was varied and the influence of the ratio R on the structural and optical properties was investigated. In this method, R affects an oxygen concentration in the film of the silicon suboxide. FTIR measurement showed a decrease of the oxygen concentration from 40.7 to 11% with increasing R. The analysis of FTIR spectra showed the containing a large number polysilane (Si–H2)n groups that suggest the material column structure. Optical transmission spectra were recorded to investigate the optical properties and thickness of the a‐SiOx:H thin films. The maximum of the growth rate is 2 nm s−1 at R = 80. The optical bandgap Eg was derived from Tauc plots. It was found that the increase in the oxygen concentration not only leads to the increase optical bandgap, but also to the decrease the refraction index.
Random and correlated damage initiation in impact‐loaded SiC ceramics
Authors: Chmel Alexandre , Kadomtsev Andrej , Shcherbakov Igor
Published: February 2016

Samples of SiC ceramics differing in porosity in the range 1–9 % were damaged by a falling weight, and the acoustic emission (AE) and fractoluminescence (FL) activity lasting up to 1.3 μs was detected. The recorded time series of AE and FL pulses were used for constructing the energy release distributions in individual damage events occurring at the microscopic and nanostructural scale levels, respectively. A critical pore concentration was found, at the transition over which the random energy release in primary defect nucleation changes for the scaling one at the nanostructural level. These changes in the mechanical behavior were explained by the growth of the area of the oxidized film on the pore surface in more porous sintered samples. At the microstructural scale level, any qualitative changes in the scaling mechanical behavior of ceramics were not observed.
Structural characterization of the high‐temperature modification of the Cu2ZnGeTe4 quaternary semiconductor compound
Authors: Nieves L. , Delgado G. E. , Marcano G. , Power Ch. , López‐Rivera S. A. , Rincón C.
Published: February 2016

A combined study of the X‐ray powder diffraction, differential thermal analysis, optical absorption, and Raman spectroscopy of the high‐temperature modification of Cu2ZnGeTe4 quaternary semiconductor, obtained by fast quenching from 820 K to ice water temperature, has been done. It has been found that this phase crystallizes in a tetragonal kesterite‐type structure. From the analysis of the absorption coefficient spectra, the band gap energy of this material at room temperature has been found to be 1.49 eV. An optical transition from defect acceptor states to the conduction band is also observed below the fundamental absorption edge. Three strongest Raman lines observed at 116, 119, and 139 cm−1 have been assigned to the A‐symmetry modes. Also, lines at 81, 89, 97, and 263 cm−1 tentatively ascribed as B or E‐symmetry modes have been detected from the spectrum. The presence in this high‐temperature modification of ZnTe and Cu2GeTe3 secondary phases has been detected by both XRD and Raman spectroscopy.
Back Cover: Observation of anisotropic interlayer Raman modes in few‐layer ReS2 (Phys. Status Solidi RRL 2/2016)
Authors: Nagler Philipp , Plechinger Gerd , Schüller Christian , Korn Tobias
Published: February 2016

No abstract is available for this article.
Objectives
Authors: Bado Souleymane , Forster Brian P. , Ghanim Abdelbagi M. A. , Jankowicz-Cieslak Joanna , Berthold Günter , Luxiang Liu
Published: February 2016

Salinity affects soil, water and crop plants. The severity of soil salinity needs to be determined in order to make informed decisions on best cropping practices. Likewise, the tolerance of crop cultivars needs to be matched to the growing conditions. Protocols are therefore required to monitor field salinity and to evaluate crop tolerance to salt.
Protocol for Screening for Salt Tolerance in Rice
Authors: Bado Souleymane , Forster Brian P. , Ghanim Abdelbagi M. A. , Jankowicz-Cieslak Joanna , Berthold Günter , Luxiang Liu
Published: February 2016

A simple protocol is presented that tests salt tolerance in rice seedlings. The method is based on a glasshouse hydroponics test in which salt is added to the nutrient hydroponic solution in which the seedlings are grown. A list of equipment is provided including hydroponic hardware and stock solutions. Advice is given on seed storage prior to use and pregermination treatments that promote even germination of test samples. Salt treatments commence after seedling establishment in hydroponics, at the 2–3 leaf stage. Information on responses of standard genotypes (tolerant, intermediate and sensitive) is given to which test seedlings are compared. Visual symptoms of salinity stress include reduced leaf area, whitish appearance of lower leaves, leaf tip death, leaf rolling and seedling death. Scoring is carried out according to the standard evaluation system developed by the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI). Recommended test salt concentrations are given along with a method to recover selected seedlings and examples of use.
Protocol for Screening for Salt Tolerance in Barley and Wheat
Authors: Bado Souleymane , Forster Brian P. , Ghanim Abdelbagi M. A. , Jankowicz-Cieslak Joanna , Berthold Günter , Luxiang Liu
Published: February 2016

A simple protocol is presented that tests salt tolerance in wheat and barley seedlings. The method is based on a glasshouse, aerated hydroponics test in which salt is added to the nutrient hydroponic solution in which the seedlings are grown. A list of equipment is provided including hydroponic hardware and stock solutions. Advice is given on seed storage prior to use and pregermination treatments that promote even germination of test samples. Salt treatments commence after seedling establishment in hydroponics at the 2–3-leaf stage. Visual symptoms of salinity stress include reduced leaf area, whitish appearance of lower leaves, leaf tip death, leaf rolling and seedling death. Recommended test salt concentrations for testing wheat and barley are given along with a method of recovering selected plants. Examples of protocol used are also given.
Is There a Threshold for Stiffness Complaints Following TKA on the WOMAC Stiffness Subscale?
Authors: Ghomrawi Hassan M. K. , Mancuso Carol A. , Gonzalez Della Valle Alejandro , Herrero Christina , Westrich Geoffrey H.
Published: February 2016

Background

Stiffness complaints after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are frequent, yet poorly understood and can be challenging for surgeons to address. The WOMAC stiffness subscale is a widely used measure of stiffness and can serve as a simple screening tool for complaints.

Questions/Purposes

We aimed to identify a threshold for stiffness complaints on the WOMAC stiffness subscale and investigate its overlap with range of motion (ROM) in TKA patients.

Methods

TKA patients were enrolled preoperatively and followed for 6 months. At follow-up, patients reported their ROM, completed the WOMAC stiffness subscale (range 1–8 with 8 continuous stiffness) and indicated whether they experienced more stiffness than expected. To identify a threshold for complaints, we compared patients’ WOMAC stiffness scores to when they experienced more stiffness than expected, visually, and statistically. We also mapped ROM limitations at 6 months to WOMAC stiffness scores. Finally, we determined if baseline characteristics were associated with stiffness complaints.

Results

Two hundred and forty-six TKA patients were enrolled preoperatively with 82% follow-up rate at 6 months. Our results showed that patients with a WOMAC stiffness score = 3+ were significantly more likely to experience more stiffness than expected. Patients reporting full ROM (54%) reported a wide range of WOMAC stiffness subscale scores (1–6). Baseline WOMAC pain and function scores were the only factors associated with stiffness complaints.

Conclusions

ROM is a poor surrogate of patient-reported stiffness, and the patients’ perception of “stiffness” is clearly more complex than just ROM. We identified a WOMAC threshold that could potentially easily serve this purpose.
First demonstration of improving laser propagation inside the spherical hohlraums by using the cylindrical laser entrance hole
Authors: Huo Wenyi , Li Zhichao , Yang Dong , Lan Ke , Liu Jie , Ren Guoli , Li Sanwei , Yang Zhiwen , Guo Liang , Hou Lifei , Xie Xuefei , Li Yukun , Deng Keli , Yuan Zheng , Zhan Xiayu , Yuan Guanghui , Zhang Haijun , Jiang Baibin , Huang Lizhen , Du Kai , Zhao Runchang , Li Ping , Wang Wei , Su Jingqin , Ding Yongkun , He Xiantu , Zhang Weiyan
Published: February 2016

The octahedral spherical hohlraums have natural superiority in maintaining high radiation symmetry during the entire capsule implosion process in indirect drive inertial confinement fusion. While, in contrast to the cylindrical hohlraums, the narrow space between the laser beams and the spherical hohlraum wall is usually commented. In this Letter, we address this crucial issue and report our experimental work conducted on the SGIII-prototype laser facility which unambiguously demonstrates that a simple design of cylindrical laser entrance hole (LEH) can dramatically improve the laser propagation inside the spherical hohlraums. In addition, the laser beam deflection in the hohlraum is observed for the first time in the experiments. Our 2-dimensional simulation results also verify qualitatively the advantages of the spherical hohlraums with cylindrical LEHs. Our results imply the prospect of adopting the cylindrical LEHs in future spherical ignition hohlraum design.
Grit and Determination: A Review of Literature With Implications for Theory and Research
Authors: Datu Jesus Alfonso D. , Yuen Mantak , Chen Gaowei
Published: February 2016

This article examines the potential benefits of possessing the personality traits of determination and perseverance (often referred to as ‘grit’) in an academic setting. Previous studies in Western individualistic societies have emphasised the advantages of possessing this attribute of grit; but, to date, very few investigations have been conducted in collectivist cultures, such as those in the Asian contexts. This article provides a brief review of literature on this topic, reflecting perspectives from various socio-cultural milieus. From this knowledge base, several themes emerge, with implications for improving grit-related theory. Possible lines for future research are also suggested.
Q&A with Leaders and Practitioners: State Senator Ricardo Lara
Authors: Ramakrishnan S. Karthick
Published: February 2016

Our understanding of the politics of race, indigeneity, and ethnicity is informed not only by the work of scholars, but also by the work of leaders and practitioners, many of whom are pioneers in their respective fields. The Journal of Race, Ethnicity, and Politics (JREP) is proud to inaugurate this Q&A series with State Senator Ricardo Lara. Our hope is that forums like these will help advance our collective scholarship by better informing our research agendas, validating some of our claims, and building more bridges between the worlds of research, politics, and policy.
What do prisoners eat? Nutrient intakes and food practices in a high-secure prison
Authors: Hannan-Jones Mary , Capra Sandra
Published: February 2016

There are limited studies on the adequacy of prisoner diet and food practices, yet understanding these are important to inform food provision and assure duty of care for this group. The aim of this study was to assess the dietary intakes of prisoners to inform food and nutrition policy in this setting. This research used a cross-sectional design with convenience sampling in a 945-bed male high-secure prison. Multiple methods were used to assess food available at the group level, including verification of food portion, quality and practices. A pictorial tool supported the diet history method. Of 276 eligible prisoners, 120 dietary interviews were conducted and verified against prison records, with 106 deemed plausible. The results showed the planned food to be nutritionally adequate, with the exception of vitamin D for older males and long-chain fatty acids, with Na above upper limits. The Australian dietary targets for chronic disease risk were not achieved. High energy intakes were reported with median 13·8 (se0·3) MJ. Probability estimates of inadequate intake varied with age groups: Mg 8 % (>30 years), 2·9 % (<30 years); Ca 6·0 % (>70 years), 1·5 % (<70 years); folate 3·5 %; Zn and I 2·7 %; and vitamin A 2·3 %. Nutrient intakes were greatly impacted by self-funded snacks. Results suggest the intakes to be nutritionally favourable when compared with males in the community. This study highlights the complexity of food provision in the prison environment and also poses questions for population-level dietary guidance in delivering appropriate nutrients within energy limits.
Investigation of larvae digestive β-glucosidase and proteases of the tomato pestTuta absolutafor inhibiting the insect development
Authors: Sellami S. , Jamoussi K.
Published: February 2016

The tomato leaf minerTuta absolutais one of the most devastating pests for tomato crops. Digestive proteases and β-glucosidase enzymes were investigated using general and specific substrates and inhibitors. Maximal β-glucosidase and proteolytic activities occurred at temperature and pH optima of 30 and 40°C, 5 and 10–11 unit of pH, respectively. Zymogram analysis showed the presence of distinguished β-glucosidase exhibiting a specific activity of about 183 ± 15 µmol min−1mg−1.In vitroinhibition experiments suggested that serine proteases were the primary gut proteases. Gel based protease inhibition assays demonstrated that the 28 and 73 kDa proteases might be trypsin-like and chymotrypsin-like enzymes, respectively. Overall gut trypsin-like and chymotrypsin-like activities were evaluated to be about 27.2 ± 0.84 and 1.68 ± 0.03 µmol min−1mg−1, respectively. Sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis analysis showed thatT. absolutagut serine proteases are responsible forBacillus thuringiensisCry insecticidal proteins proteolysis. Additionally, bioassays showed thatT. absolutalarvae development was more affected by the β-glucosidases inhibitor (D-glucono-δ-lactone) than the serine proteases inhibitor (soybean trypsin inhibitor). These results are of basic interest since they present interesting data of β-glucosidases and gut serine proteases ofT. absolutalarvae.
Discussion of ‘Olistostromes of the Pieniny Klippen Belt, Northern Carpathians’
Authors: Plašienka D. , Soták J. , Aubrecht R. , Michalík J.
Published: February 2016

D. Plašienka, J. Michalík, J. Soták & R. Aubrecht comment: In their recent paper, Golonka et al. (2015) described the Cretaceous and Palaeogene olistostromes and other types of mass-transport deposits occurring within the Pieniny Klippen Belt (PKB) of the Western Carpathians. After a short introduction into the olistostrome concept and an overall description of the PKB structure, the authors presented their views on the composition and evolution of the PKB with olistostromes as the leading phenomenon. Although novel in some aspects, the model they present is largely oversimplified and partly erroneous in our opinion. In the following, we shall comment on the several most disputable statements and interpretations offered in the discussed paper.
The Cyrenaican Prehistory Project 2010: the fourth season of investigations of the Haua Fteah cave and its landscape, and further results from the 2007–2009 fieldwork
Authors: Barker Graeme , Antoniadou Annita , Armitage Simon , Brooks Ian , Candy Ian , Connell Kate , Douka Katerina , Drake Nicholas , Farr Lucy , Hill Evan , Hunt Chris , Inglis Robyn , Jones Sacha , Lane Christine , Lucarini Giulio , Meneely John , Morales Jacob , Mutri Giuseppina , Prendergast Amy , Rabett Ryan , Reade Hazel , Reynolds Tim , Russell Natalie , Simpson David , Smith Bernard , Stimpson Chris , Twati Mohammed , White Kevin
Published: February 2016

The paper reports on the fourth (2010) season of fieldwork of the Cyrenaican Prehistory Project, and on further results of analyses of artefacts and organic materials collected in the 2009 season. Ground-based LiDar has provided both an accurate 3D scan of the Haua Fteah cave and information on the cave's morphometry or origins. The excavations in the cave focussed on Middle Palaeolithic or Middle Stone Age ‘Pre-Aurignacian’ layers below the base of the Middle Trench beside the McBurney Deep Sounding (Trench D) and on Final Palaeolithic ‘Oranian’ layers beside the upper part of the Middle Trench (Trench M). Although McBurney referred to the upper part of the Deep Sounding as more or less sterile, the 2010 excavations found evidence for small-scale but regular human presence in the form of stone artefacts and debitage, though given the sedimentary context the latter are unlikely to represent in situ knapping. The excavations of Trench M extended from the basal Capsian layers investigated in 2009 through Oranian layers to the transition with the Dabban Upper Palaeolithic. Some 17,000 lithic pieces have been studied from the Capsian and Oranian layers excavated in Trench M, in an area measuring less than 2 m by 1 m by 1.1 m deep, along with numerous animal bones, molluscs, and macrobotanical remains, as well as occasional shell beads. Preliminary studies of the lithics, bones, molluscs, and plant remains are revealing the changing character of late Pleistocene (Oranian) and early Holocene (Capsian) occupation in the Haua Fteah. Alongside the work in the Haua Fteah, the project continued its assessment of the Quaternary and archaeological sequences of the Cyrenaican coastland and completed a transect survey of surface lithic materials and their landform contexts from the pre-desert across the Gebel Akhdar to the coast, with a new focus on the al-Marj basin. Significant differences are emerging in patterns of Middle Palaeolithic and later hominin occupation and palaeodemography.
DMP X: Survey and Landscape Conservation Issues around the Tāqallit headland
Authors: Mattingly David , al-Aghab Salah , Ahmed Muftah , Moussa Farès , Sterry Martin , Wilson Andrew , Cole Franca , Leitch Victoria , Radini Anita , Savage Toby , Schörle Katia , Veldhuis Djuke
Published: February 2016

Survey by the DMP Burials and Identity team around the Tāqallit headland in 2009–2010 has revealed in exceptional detail a well-preserved Garamantian landscape, comprising extensive cemeteries, foggara irrigation systems and numerous oasis settlements. However, this remarkable survival of the Garamantian landscape was found in 2010 to be under direct and imminent threat of destruction. This report describes the landscape features recorded and the steps taken to try to preserve the evidence from obliteration in the face of modern agricultural development. Important new information was recorded about the date and furnishing of some key types of Proto-Urban tombs, linking with a refined view of the relationship of these cemeteries to contemporary foggara construction and the creation of pioneer farming settlement in the Tāqallit region. Significant additional details of the foggara systems were recorded through a combination of satellite image interpretation, surface observation and selective descent into rock-cut shafts. The discovery of an unexpected number of ancient settlements and structures of Garamantian date represents another major achievement of the work. The composite picture of the Garamantian landscape encompassing cemeteries, foggaras and settlements is arguably the most complete yet recorded in the FP/DMP work.
Notes on the Tauorga Project
Authors: Speetzen Heinrich
Published: February 2016

From the 12 April 1974 to the 26 April 1974 the Libyan Society made it possible for me to visit the new irrigation project in Tauorga, Libya. The visit was a great help in completing a vital part of my Ph.D. research. It gave me the opportunity of studying the marketing situation for the planned output of the project, the working ability of the settlers, who are at present living in the decaying Tauorga oasis, and the expansion possibilities for agricultural production. I was also able to collect a great deal of statistical and peripheral information which has given me a much better understanding of the specific problems inherent in the project. The main results of my work in Libya are summarized below.

The basis for the income of the settlers in the Tauorga project is a 10 ha farm for each of the 300 families to be settled. The cropping pattern of each of these farms is 3·8 ha cereals, 2·2 ha beets, 2·0 ha alfalfa and 2·0 ha vegetables. Further, the farmers will keep on each farm 2 cows, 1 ox, 2 donkeys, 5 sheep and 10 to 15 fowls. The labour demand for these agricultural activities per farm per annum is estimated to be as follows:

The above table shows clearly that for a daily working time of 8 hours, at least 4 permanent full-time labourers will be required. Increasing the working day to 12 in order to reduce the number of labourers to 3, becomes unrealistic since the labourers would migrate to easier jobs, which are available in the urban centres. But it is unlikely that the 8-member families will have 4 able bodied workmen and much of the farmwork will probably have to be done by hired labour.
The Zughba at Tripoli, 429H (1037–8 A.D.)
Authors: Brett Michael
Published: February 2016

Speaking of Tripoli, the fourteenth-century writer al-Tijāni says: ‘when the Zughba killed Sacīd ibn Khazrūn in the year 429’. Sacīd was the Zanāta lord of the city, and al-Tijānī is explaining that the venerable faqīh Ibn Munammar was driven into exile because, when Sacīd was killed, he opened the gates to a cousin of the dead man who was promptly expelled by a brother. The reference to the Zughba is thus contained within an account of the dynasty of the Banū Khazrūn which is itself contained within a biographical notice of the jurist Ibn Munammar. There is no further explanation of the killing, and no mention of it by any other writer apart from Ibn Khaldūn, who has borrowed the story from Al-Tijānī, and repeats it twice. This presents a problem. The Zughba were Arabs, a branch of the Banū Hilāl. In that case they should not have been at Tripoli at all, as Ibn Khaldūn observes, because the Banū Hilāl did not enter Ifrīqiya until they were sent from Egypt to punish the Zīrīd sultan al-Mucizz ibn Bādīs for breaking his allegiance to the Fāṭimid caliph in Cairo, and recognising the cAbbāsid caliph in Baghdad. That would have been some time after 1048, more specifically, after 1050, when the man who is usually held responsible for the invasion, al-Yāzūrī, became the Fāṭimid wazīr. The story of the invasion at the behest of al-Yāzūrī is accepted by the principal modern authority, Hady Roger Idris, who tries to explain the reference to the Zughba at Tripoli in 1037–8 by suggesting that a fraction of the tribe may have accompanied their relatives the Banū Qurra, a people settled to the west of Alexandria, when these were sent by Cairo to support an attack upon the Zīrīds of Ifrīqiya by an Ifrīqiyan pretender, Yaḥyā ibn cAlī ibn Hamdūn, in 1001–2. The Banū Qurra had helped Ya…yā to attack Tripoli, but had then returned to Egypt. Idris wonders if this hypothetical fraction of the Zughba had not stayed behind in the neighbourhood of the city.
Excavations at El-Medeinah, Ancient Surt 1977
Authors: Abdussaid Abdulhamid , Shaglouf Masoud , Fehérvári Géza
Published: February 2016

Excavations at El-Medeinah, ancient Surt (in previous reports erroneously called Medinat Sultan) took place between July 11 and August 6th 1977. The excavations were financed by the Department of Antiquities of Libya and by the Society for Libyan Studies. Participants of the excavations were Mr. Abdulhamid Abdussaid, Technical Director of the Department of Antiquities, Libya, Mr. Masoud Shagluf, Controller of Antiquities, Benghazi, Dr. Géza Fehérvári, School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London on behalf of the Society for Libyan Studies, Mr. Idris Ahmad Badi, Inspector of Antiquities, Benghazi, Mr. Michael Blyth and Mrs. Marta Kozary Blyth, Architects, Miss Marga Foley, Conservation student, Institute of Archaeology, University of London, Miss Caroline Ballingal, student, School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London and Mrs. Iren Fehérvári.

The aims of the season's work were:

1. to prepare an overall survey map of the site,

2. to prepare for publication the previously excavated pottery, and

3. to open a trial trench in the mosque area in order to investigate earlier occupation levels, and a second one inside the mosque to establish the existence of a ṗre-Fāṭimid mosque.

With regard to the survey of the site, Professor Lucien Golvin of the University of Aix-en-Provence began such work on the site in June, 1975 and laid down a number of reference points on a 50 m grid. It was decided that the present survey should be based on Professor Golvin's grid, and implemented as necessary. A new reference system was evolved which will be used in future excavations. A contour map of 1:1000 was produced which extends beyond the suggested line of the city walls as they were set by the Department of Antiquities under the direction of Dr. Mohammad Mostafa. The map depicts the contours at 50 cm intervals and includes all the previously excavated areas and visible features of the site (Fig.1).
Neo-Punic Tombs near Leptis Magna
Authors: Abouhamed Mahmoud Saddiq
Published: February 2016

On May 1, 1973 Sayyed Mohamed A. Sarria informed the controller of the office at Leptis that there was a large cavity on the construction site of an Indian contracting company working on an electrical project. The Controller went to inspect the cavity on May 15th. The site is located near an old castle, named Gasr Gelda, and about 500 metres north-west of the Moah family residence, which is about 2.5 km south of Leptis. When the cavity was examined it was identified as the courtyard of an ancient tomb, 3 m deep. After cleaning the courtyard, the workmen found the main entrances of two tombs which were closed by two big stones. Each tomb (Fig.1) consists of a small underground chamber with a gently curving ceiling and plastered walls (see plates 1 and 2).

Many important objects were found in Tomb 1 and these were transferred to the Leptis museum store (see plate 3). The second was found empty, having probably not been used. It seems to have been dug in the rock and it had several niches.
Groundwater resources of Eastern Libya (Cyrenaica)
Authors: Wright E. P.
Published: February 2016

Cyrenaica, excluding the Jebel Akhdar, forms part of the Libyan Sahara. It is a true desert with a mean annual rainfall generally less than 20 mm, and a land surface of sand, gravel or rock, largely devoid of vegetation (Plate 1). Yet a few thousand years ago, the Libyan Sahara, as elsewhere in North Africa, enjoyed an abundant rainfall and supported a varied flora and fauna as can be seen from pre-historic rock paintings. The abundant rainfall filled huge subterranean reservoirs which since then have been slowly draining to the Mediterranean Sea or low lying sabkhats and inland lakes. In consequence of the moderate relief of the Sahara and the wide regional extent and uniform structure of the sedimentary basins which form the reservoirs, the groundwater bodies occur in huge flow systems which may extend over several hundreds of miles. The reservoirs' thicknesses vary but the two most important series, the Continental Intercalaire or Nubian, and the Continental Terminal of mid-Tertiary to recent age, frequently exceed 3000 feet. Two major flow systems occur in Cyrenaica, in the Sirte and Kufra basins (Fig.1).

Until oil was discovered in the late nineteen fifties, groundwater development in Cyrenaica was mainly concentrated in coastal areas where the prevailing rainfall is sufficient to permit some recharge, and in a few interior scattered oases — Giarabub, Jalo-Augila, Kufra and Tazerbo, where the ground surface lies close to the upper phreatic (water table) surface of regional groundwater systems.

Oil exploration requires fairly large supplies of water for the main drilling operations. During exploration in the Sirte basin it was discovered that water of variable quality could be found virtually anywhere at moderate depths between 100 and 500 feet below ground level. Oil company practice to obtain temporary water supplies is to drill two or three simply constructed water wells to a few hundred feet below the water table, and to pump by air lift. The wells are subsequently capped, when no longer required.
Crowe's Tomb at Benghazi – a Postscript
Authors: Bailey D. M.
Published: February 2016

This note is a sequel to an earlier article concerning a tomb discovered at Benghazi in 1860 by F. H. Crowe. Further papers relating to the discovery (including a plan of the tomb) have come to light and are published here. Additional comments can also now be advanced on some of the artifacts found in the tomb.
Stratigraphy of the Qasr Al Haj Formation, Fan-gravel Deposits of Quaternary Age, Tripolitania, S.P.L.A.J.
Authors: Anketell J. M. , Ghellali S. M.
Published: February 2016

The Qasr Al Haj Formation, comprised of alluvial fan gravels and sands with calcrete horizons, is subdivided into five members separated one from the other by surfaces of discontinuity. These surfaces, defined primarily by erosion and soil formation, can be followed northwards into the Jifarah Formation thus allowing detailed correlation of the fan-gravel deposits with the finer fluvio-aeolian sands and silts of the floodplain. Thick deposits of cemented and uncemented gravels at Wadi Ghan contain at least two horizons of basaltic lava flows. Previously reported finds of artifacts from this gravel sequence together with the possibility of radiometric dating of the lavas, may provide a much-needed chronostratigraphic framework for the Quaternary deposits of the north-west Tripolitanian region.
The UNESCO Libyan Valleys Survey XXI: Geomorphological Studies of the Romano-Libyan Farm, its Floodwater Control Structures and Weathered Building Stone at Site Lm4, at the Confluence of Wadi el Amud and Wadi Umm el Bagul in the Libyan Pre-desert
Authors: Gilbertson D. D. , Hunt C. O.
Published: February 2016

The Romano-Libyan farm Lm4 includes a ‘barrage’, water control walls and farm buildings. These were built as part of an agro-hydrological farm system at the confluence of the Wadi el Amud and the Wadi Umm el Bagul in the Libyan pre-desert. The farm appears to have functioned in a geomorphological environment not dissimilar to that which prevails today — with occasional rain storms producing overland flow and floods interrupting a dominance of aeolian processes. Field mapping revealed that substantial scatters of midden made up of abraded pottery, bone, and animal dung occur around the buildings. Animals appear to have been kept near to these buildings, which lead to coprolites becoming a very important component of these anthropogenic sediments. Such activity gave rise to significant bioturbation of the sediments, and a notable former vegetation cover. The petrology of the building stones used in the farm buildings is described using petrographic thin section studies. Cavernous weathering and case-hardening are shown to have developed after the stone was incorporated within the building. The size and distribution of these features are shown to relate to the nature of the bedrock used — especially the form and distribution of joints and sedimentary parting planes — as well as the distribution and thickness of the surficial soils and sediments, and the shape and form of the building.
Architectural Details from the Asklepeion at Balagrae (Beida)
Authors: Wright G. R. H.
Published: February 2016

Drawings made in 1958 of the Beida Sanctuary peristyle afford a basis for comment on characteristic architectural developments in Cyrenaica, seen as part of the Oriental Hellenistic world.

Since this complex is dated epigraphically to Hadrianic times it offers information on the chronological compass of forms and motifs which are well established at a much earlier period (3rd century BC). Notable features are the mixing of elements from different orders and the use of the cordiform angle pier often in association with the Rhodian-type peristyle.

The emergence of these devices can be seen in the Apollo Temple at Bassae, and they are subsequently formalised in the so-called Argolid School. This style was spread about the Hellenised Orient in the wake of Alexander's conquests. It can be seen particularly in Ptolemaic Alexandria, but owing to the destruction of almost all the free-standing building at Alexandria the bulk of the evidence comes from the Ptolemaic provinces, notably Cyrenaica, Cyprus and Southern Palestine/Arabia.

The details of the Balagrae peristyle also show the retention of some old established Cyrenaican regional manners (Doric Capital with moulded abacus, simplified Ionic Capital, etc) and the complete absence of any specifically Roman innovations either of design or construction.
An Analysis of Eocene Mass Movements in the Wadi Athrun, Cyrenaica
Authors: Ammar Ammar A.
Published: February 2016

This study examines the evidence for mass movement activity in the Eocene deposits of Wadi Al Athrun. Slump and debris flow features were identified and analysed using fold orientation, slip plane separation and angles and mean vector methods. Results indicate that the palaeoslope of the Eocene continental slope was N20W, with a palaeostrike of N70E. Mass movements are separated into two units according to deformation intensity. The lower unit is primarily composed of slumped Bathyal Realm sediments of the Apollonia Formation, while the upper unit evidences slump and debris flow features incorporating nummulite-rich Neritic Realm deposits of the Darnah Formation. These observations represent further insight into the sedimentary history of the continental margins of North Africa.
Warrington's 1827 Discoveries in the Apollo Sanctuary at Cyrene
Authors: Thorn James Copland
Published: February 2016

In the summer of 1827 Colonel Hanmer Warrington, British Consul General in Tripoli, sent his son H. G. Warrington to Cyrene to search for antiquities which the Bashaw of Tripoli had offered to Britain. The article contains copies of the original letters on this subject and gives a description of the antiquities which were discovered during his excavations in the Apollo Sanctuary. Also given is the subsequent history of their journey from Cyrene to London, and then to Edinburgh, where they are now exhibited.
Utilisation of Groundwater in Jebel el Akhdar, North-East Libya, as a Basis of Agricultural Improvement with Special Emphasis on the El Marj Plain
Authors: Bukechiem A. A.
Published: February 2016

The critical criteria for regional agricultural development are water and heat. The Jebel el Akhdar region has a semi-arid climate with a marked water shortage except in the winter months. In this paper estimates are made of the runoff which offsets the dry spring and summer and of the storage in the aquifers.

The water level records in such regions as El Marj confirm gradual and regular lowering of the water level in the main aquifer. The associated rise of the salt water/fresh water interface is alarming. Great attention must be paid to variation of such storage reservoirs. This situation in the El Marj area is relatively stable compared with other regions of Libya, reflecting the limited demand and relative storage, particularly when water is utilised from the El Gharigh flood.

The imbalance in the hydrological basin needs more care in its management and use.