bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Organic Loading Rate (OLR) of Slurry on Biogas Production Quality
Authors: Mel Maizirwan , Mohd Suhuli Nadiah , Avicenna  , Ihsan Sany Izan , Ismail Ahmad Faris , Yaacob Sarifah
Published: July 2015

In this study, three different concentration of organic loading rate (OLR) were investigated to examine the effect of the change in the organic loading rate on the efficiency of the biogas production. Daily amount of biogas of different type of organic loading rate (OLR), rates of production of biogas, removal efficiencies of chemical oxygen demand (COD), total solid (TS) matter, volatile solids (VS) matter from the slurry were investigated in 30 days retention tyme using 50 L digester. The digester was operated at different organic feeding rates of 25000 mg/L COD, 50000 mg/L COD, and 75000 mg/L COD. The material used in this system is the fruits waste, vegetables waste and cow dung. The system operated in continuous system. The reactor showed stable performance with the highest quality of methane (concentration about70.3% of CH4) and rate of biogas production is 38.1 L/day with COD reduction of 52.1% during organic loading rate 50000 mg/L COD. As the organic loading rate was increased, the COD degradation and biogas yield decreased. Based on this result, the OLR of 50000 mg/L COD is suggested as design criteria for pilot biogas production.
Fundamental Study of Diesel Engine Performance by Implementing Oil from Tropical Kepayang Seeds (Pangium edule)
Authors: Khairil  , Thalib Sulaiman , Turmizi Dan
Published: July 2015

Kepayang is a plant commonly found in tropical regions especially in Aceh, which has not been optimally used by local people. Based on traditional processes, kepayang seeds are potentially capable of producing oil. The objective of this research is to examined the effects of specific fuel consumption, power generation, and the thermal efficiency on engine performance by using kepayang seeds oil. The problem will be evaluated the effect of variations of biodiesel fuel (B-0, B-10 and B-20) and variation engine rotation on the diesel engine performance. In order to perform this research, the Yanmar TS-50 engine which had rotation of 2400 rpm and maximum power of 2 kW was selected. By examining the result of the research it was concluded that there were not significant effects of varied fuel consumption on the low speed (1000 rpm to 1800 rpm) engine rotation. However for engine speed more than 1800 rpm there were somewhat effects of them on engine performance. It is evident that at the engine rotation of 2000 rpm, the fuel consumption of biodiesel (B-20) and the power generated were lower than compare to biodiesel (B-10 and B-0). On the other hand, the thermal efficiency for biodiesel (B-20) was higher than compared to other biodiesel (B-10 and B-0).
Effect of β-Si3N4 Powder on Thermal Conductivity of Silicon Nitride Ceramics
Authors: Liu Xing Li , Peng Meng Meng , Ning Xiao Shan , Takahashi Yosuke
Published: July 2015

To investigate the influence of β-Si3N4 powder on thermal conductivity of silicon nitride, coarse, fine β-Si3N4 powder and various β-Si3N4/α-Si3N4 ratios of starting powders were adopted to fabricate ceramics by spark plasma sintering at 1600°Cand subsequent high-temperature heat treatment at 1900°C with the sintering additives of Y2O3 and MgO. It is found that with more fine β-Si3N4 powder in the starting powder, β-Si3N4 grains exhibit high thermal conductivity, which is partly resulted from the compaction of β-Si3N4 grains.
Preparation and High-Frequency Dielectric Properties of Cu/SiO2 Composites
Authors: Sun Kai , Fan Run Hua , Zhang Zi Dong , Zhang Xi Hua , Yan Ke Lan , Chen Min
Published: July 2015

In this paper, Cu/SiO2 composites with different metal contents were successfully prepared by a selective reduction process. The phase composition and microstructure of composites were analyzed by XRD and SEM, respectively. The results show that spherical copper particles are uniformly distributed in silica matrix. The impedance and permittivity of composites were tested with RF impedance analyzer (0.1~1 GHz). It is indicated Cu/SiO2 composites exhibit capacitive character. In addition, the dielectric constants get enlarged due to the enhancement of interface polarization.
Synthesis and Characterization of Yellow Pigments Fabricated by Sol-Gel and Solid-State Reaction Routes
Authors: Zhao Xin Qiao , Zhang Yu Jun , Zhang Xiao Yu
Published: July 2015

Novel environment-friendly near-infrared reflective Y5.2Nd0.8MoO12+σ pigments were fabricated by sol-gel and solid-state reaction routes, and the properties of both pigments were compared. The pigments were characterized by XRD, SEM, CIE-L*a*b* color-measurements, and UV-vis-NIR spectroscopy. The results show that pigments obtained by sol-gel routes crystallize completely at 900 °C, much lower than 1300 °C of solid-state reaction routes. Nano-size pigments fabricated by sol-gel routes possess an average grain size of ~ 50 nm, largely finer than 3 μm of solid-state reaction ones. Moreover, the sol-gel processed pigments show a higher near-infrared reflectance than solid-state reaction ones, which are 98.3 % and 91.7 %, respectively, but with a slightly light yellow color hue.
The Influence of Synthesis Conditions on the Structure of Mg-Al Layered Double Hydroxide
Authors: Wang Xiao Bo , Bai Zhi Min , He Zhi Yong , Zhang Qi Fu , Qian Fen Ling
Published: July 2015

In this paper, the influence of synthetic conditions (the molar ratio of Mg2+ and Al3+; the concentration of cationic; the aging temperature and time) on the grain size and crystallinity of Mg-Al layered double hydroxide (LDH) has been investigated systematically based on the orthogonal experiment. Mg-Al LDH was prepared using magnesite through chemical precipitation and hydrothermal methods. The samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The grain size which along a and c axis were calculated through Scherrer formula. The experimental results showed that the grain size along a axis increased with the rise of synthesis temperature, while the grain size along c axis reduced. It was also found that the aging temperature and time had a great influence on the crystallinity of Mg-Al LDH.
Friction and Wear Behavior of Pressureless Solid State Sintered SiC
Authors: Liang Han Qin , Yao Xiu Min , Zhang Hui , Liu Xue Jian , Huang Zheng Ren
Published: July 2015

In the present work, SiC was pressureless solid state sintered with 3 wt% C and 0.6 wt% B4C as sintering additives. The friction and wear behavior of the PSSS SiC ceramics was investigated by using a block-on-ring tribometer. The wear volume and friction coefficient was measured. It is as expected that the friction coefficient increased with the elevation of the normal load and sliding speed. The microstructure of the worn surface was observed, based on which the wear mechanism was analyzed. Different degrees of oxidation during the friction process was found and the degree of oxidation was related to the severity of wear. The normal load was found to exert great influence on the wear of the SSiC ceramics.
Effect of Co Content on the Densification, Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of cBN-WC/Co Composites
Authors: He Qiu Shuang , Chen Hai Yan , Li Kun , Dong Li Hua
Published: July 2015

Hot pressing sintering process for cemented carbide preparation was investigated with cBN-WC/Co composite powders with different Co content from 4wt% to 10wt% at temperatures between 1300°C and 1400°C. The results showed that the Co content had remarkable influence on the densification and mechanical properties of cBN-WC/Co composites. Near-full densification can be obtained when cBN-WC/8wt%Co powders were sintered at temperatures at 1350°C, and pressures at 20MPa, combining an excellent Vickers hardness of 17.57GPa with an acceptable flexure strength of 601.58MPa.
Interface of Graphene/ZrB2 Ceramics Structure by Molecular Dynamics Simulation
Authors: An Yu Min , Zhang Xing Hong , Han Wen Bo , Hu Ping , Chen Gui Qing , Zhao Guang Dong
Published: July 2015

With honeycomb lattice of sp2 hybridized carbon atoms, graphene has demonstrated excellent electrical and mechanical properties. One of its promising applications is to fabricate graphene-ceramic composite to improve the mechanical properties. In order to quantify the strength between graphene-ZrB2 interactions, molecular dynamic method was utilized to simulate typical interface of graphene/ZrB2 ceramic structure. Berendsen method was used to control the temperature and pressure during the whole simulation process. Universal potential function was employed to simulate the force filed between graphene and ZrB2 structure. The binding structures of graphene/ZrB2 (0001) interface were analyzed in detail and the bonding energy of the interface was calculated. The influence of numbers of graphene layer and sandwich structures on the bonding energy of interface is discussed. The study helped to understand the influence of graphene on mechanical properties of ZrB2 ceramic.
The Neonatal CD4+ T Cell Response to a Single Epitope Varies in Genetically Identical Mice
Authors: Nelson Ryan W. , Rajpal Miriam N. , Jenkins Marc K.
Published: July 2015

Neonatal infection is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Increased susceptibility to infection in the neonate is attributed in part to defects in T cell–mediated immunity. A peptide:MHC class II tetramer-based cell enrichment method was used to test this hypothesis at the level of a single epitope. We found that naive T cells with TCRs specific for the 2W:I-Ab epitope were present in the thymuses of 1-d-old CD57BL/6 mice but were barely detectable in the spleen, likely because each mouse contained very few total splenic CD4+ T cells. By day 7 of life, however, the total number of splenic CD4+ T cells increased dramatically and the frequency of 2W:I-Ab–specific naive T cells reached that of adult mice. Injection of 2W peptide in CFA into 1-d-old mice generated a 2W:I-Ab–specific effector cell population that peaked later than in adult mice and showed more animal-to-animal variation. Similarly, 2W:I-Ab–specific naive T cells in different neonatal mice varied significantly in generation of Th1, Th2, and follicular Th cells compared with adult mice. These results suggest that delayed effector cell expansion and stochastic variability in effector cell generation due to an initially small naive repertoire contribute to defective peptide:MHC class II–specific immunity in neonates.
Clashing deities in the book of Judith: A Greimassian perspective
Authors: Hobyane Risimati S.
Published: July 2015

The shaping of a text with a specific kind of plot is suggestive of the fundamental values that the author desires to either promote or discourage within the reader’s community and its worldview. The Judith narrative is not an exception to this claim or rule. Scholars have contributed much in establishing the underlying purpose of Judith and came up with intuitive contributions to the field of study. However, the investigation of the overarching fundamental values that generated the story of Judith remains a gap to be filled in Judith research. The goal of this article is to fill this gap by investigating the fundamental values that the author desires to promote or discourage within the community, using the thematic analysis of the Greimassian semiotic approach. Subsequently, the present article reveals that the Judith narrative was designed to be an ideological vehicle in its intent, aimed at rejuvenating and revitalising the core values of the Jewish religion during the difficult times of the Second Temple period.
Non-stable K1-functors of Multiloop Groups
Authors: Stavrova Anastasia
Published: July 2015

Let k be a field of characteristic 0. Let G be a reductive group over the ring of Laurent polynomials . Assume that G contains amaximal R-torus, and that every semisimple normal subgroup of G contains a two-dimensional split torus G2m. We show that the natural map of non-stable K1-functors, also called Whitehead groups, KG1(R) → KG1 ( k((x1)) … ((xn))) is injective, and an isomorphism if G is semisimple. As an application, we provide a way to compute the difference between the full automorphism group of a Lie torus (in the sense of Yoshii–Neher) and the subgroup generated by exponential automorphisms.
Phase partitioning and volatility of secondary organic aerosol components formed from α-pinene ozonolysis and OH oxidation: the importance of accretion products and other low volatility compounds
Authors: Lopez-Hilfiker F. D. , Mohr C. , Ehn M. , Rubach F. , Kleist E. , Wildt J. , Mentel Th. F. , Carrasquillo A. J. , Daumit K. E. , Hunter J. F. , Kroll J. H. , Worsnop D. R. , Thornton J. A.
Published: July 2015

Abstract. We measured a large suite of gas- and particle-phase multi-functional organic compounds with a Filter Inlet for Gases and AEROsols (FIGAERO) coupled to a high-resolution time-of-flight chemical ionization mass spectrometer (HR-ToF-CIMS) developed at the University of Washington. The instrument was deployed on environmental simulation chambers to study monoterpene oxidation as a secondary organic aerosol (SOA) source. We focus here on results from experiments utilizing an ionization method most selective towards acids (acetate negative ion proton transfer), but our conclusions are based on more general physical and chemical properties of the SOA. Hundreds of compounds were observed in both gas and particle phases, the latter being detected by temperature-programmed thermal desorption of collected particles. Particulate organic compounds detected by the FIGAERO–HR-ToF-CIMS are highly correlated with, and explain at least 25–50 % of, the organic aerosol mass measured by an Aerodyne aerosol mass spectrometer (AMS). Reproducible multi-modal structures in the thermograms for individual compounds of a given elemental composition reveal a significant SOA mass contribution from high molecular weight organics and/or oligomers (i.e., multi-phase accretion reaction products). Approximately 50 % of the HR-ToF-CIMS particle-phase mass is associated with compounds having effective vapor pressures 4 or more orders of magnitude lower than commonly measured monoterpene oxidation products. The relative importance of these accretion-type and other extremely low volatility products appears to vary with photochemical conditions. We present a desorption-temperature-based framework for apportionment of thermogram signals into volatility bins. The volatility-based apportionment greatly improves agreement between measured and modeled gas-particle partitioning for select major and minor components of the SOA, consistent with thermal decomposition during desorption causing the conversion of lower volatility components into the detected higher volatility compounds.
Seasonal and diurnal trends in concentrations and fluxes of volatile organic compounds in central London
Authors: Valach A. C. , Langford B. , Nemitz E. , MacKenzie A. R. , Hewitt C. N.
Published: July 2015

Abstract. Concentrations and fluxes of seven volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were measured between August and December 2012 at a rooftop site in central London as part of the ClearfLo project (Clean Air for London). VOC concentrations were quantified using a proton transfer reaction mass spectrometer (PTR-MS) and fluxes were calculated using a virtual disjunct eddy covariance technique. The median VOC fluxes, including aromatics, oxygenated compounds and isoprene, ranged from 0.07 to 0.33 mg m−2 h−1. Median mixing ratios were 7.3 ppb for methanol and < 1 ppb for the other compounds. Strong relationships were observed between the fluxes and concentrations of some VOCs with traffic density and between the fluxes and concentrations of isoprene and oxygenated compounds with photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) and temperature. An estimated 50–90 % of the fluxes of aromatic VOCs were attributable to traffic activity, which showed little seasonal variation, suggesting that boundary layer effects or possibly advected pollution may be the primary causes of increased concentrations of aromatics in winter. Isoprene, methanol and acetaldehyde fluxes and concentrations in August and September showed high correlations with PAR and temperature, when fluxes and concentrations were largest suggesting that biogenic sources contributed to their fluxes. Modelled biogenic isoprene fluxes from urban vegetation using the Guenther et al. (1995) algorithm agreed well with measured fluxes in August and September. Comparisons of estimated annual benzene emissions from both the London and the National Atmospheric Emissions Inventories agreed well with measured benzene fluxes. Flux footprint analysis indicated emission sources were localised and that boundary layer dynamics and source strengths were responsible for temporal and spatial VOC flux and concentration variability during the measurement period.
Primary marine aerosol emissions from the Mediterranean Sea during pre-bloom and oligotrophic conditions: correlations to seawater chlorophyll a from a mesocosm study
Authors: Schwier A. N. , Rose C. , Asmi E. , Ebling A. M. , Landing W. M. , Marro S. , Pedrotti M.-L. , Sallon A. , Iuculano F. , Agusti S. , Tsiola A. , Pitta P. , Louis J. , Guieu C. , Gazeau F. , Sellegri K.
Published: July 2015

Abstract. The effect of ocean acidification and changing water conditions on primary (and secondary) marine aerosol emissions is not well understood on a regional or a global scale. To investigate this effect as well as the indirect effect on aerosol that changing biogeochemical parameters can have, ~ 52 m3 pelagic mesocosms were deployed for several weeks in the Mediterranean Sea during both winter pre-bloom and summer oligotrophic conditions and were subjected to various levels of CO2 to simulate the conditions foreseen in this region for the coming decades. After seawater sampling, primary bubble-bursting aerosol experiments were performed using a plunging water jet system to test both chemical and physical aerosol parameters (10–400 nm). Comparing results obtained during pre-bloom and oligotrophic conditions, we find the same four log-normal modal diameters (18.5 ± 0.6, 37.5 ± 1.4, 91.5 ± 2.0, 260 ± 3.2 nm) describing the aerosol size distribution during both campaigns, yet pre-bloom conditions significantly increased the number fraction of the second (Aitken) mode, with an amplitude correlated to virus-like particles, heterotrophic prokaryotes, TEPs (transparent exopolymeric particles), chlorophyll a and other pigments. Organic fractions determined from kappa closure calculations for the diameter, Dp ~ 50 nm, were much larger during the pre-bloom period (64 %) than during the oligotrophic period (38 %), and the organic fraction decreased as the particle size increased. Combining data from both campaigns together, strong positive correlations were found between the organic fraction of the aerosol and chlorophyll a concentrations, heterotrophic and autotrophic bacteria abundance, and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) concentrations. As a consequence of the changes in the organic fraction and the size distributions between pre-bloom and oligotrophic periods, we find that the ratio of cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) to condensation nuclei (CN) slightly decreased during the pre-bloom period. The enrichment of the seawater samples with microlayer samples did not have any effect on the size distribution, organic content or the CCN activity of the generated primary aerosol. Partial pressure of CO2, pCO2, perturbations had little effect on the physical or chemical parameters of the aerosol emissions, with larger effects observed due to the differences between a pre-bloom and oligotrophic environment.
Use of radio occultation to probe the high-latitude ionosphere
Authors: Mannucci A. J. , Tsurutani B. T. , Verkhoglyadova O. , Komjathy A. , Pi X.
Published: July 2015

Abstract. We have explored the use of COSMIC data to provide valuable scientific information on the ionospheric impacts of energetic particle precipitation during geomagnetic storms. Ionospheric electron density in the E region, and hence ionospheric conductivity, is significantly altered by precipitating particles from the magnetosphere. This has global impacts on the thermosphere–ionosphere because of the important role of conductivity on high-latitude Joule heating. Two high-speed stream (HSS) and two coronal mass ejection (CME) storms are examined with the COSMIC data. We find clear correlation between geomagnetic activity and electron density retrievals from COSMIC. At nighttime local times, the number of profiles with maximum electron densities in the E layer (below 200 km altitude) is well correlated with geomagnetic activity. We interpret this to mean that electron density increases due to precipitation are captured by the COSMIC profiles. These "E-layer-dominant ionosphere" (ELDI) profiles have geomagnetic latitudes that are consistent with climatological models of the auroral location. For the two HSS storms that occurred in May of 2011 and 2012, a strong hemispheric asymmetry is observed, with nearly all the ELDI profiles found in the Southern, less sunlit, Hemisphere. Stronger aurora and precipitation have been observed before in winter hemispheres, but the degree of asymmetry deserves further study. For the two CME storms, occurring in July and November of 2012, large increases in the number of ELDI profiles are found starting in the storm's main phase but continuing for several days into the recovery phase. Analysis of the COSMIC profiles was extended to all local times for the July 2012 CME storm by relaxing the ELDI criterion and instead visually inspecting all profiles above 50° magnetic latitude for signatures of precipitation in the E region. For 9 days during the July 2012 period, we find a signature of precipitation occurs nearly uniformly in local time, although the magnitude of electron density increase may vary with local time. The latitudinal extent of the precipitation layers is generally consistent with auroral climatology. However, after the storm main phase on 14 July 2012 the precipitation tended to be somewhat more equatorward than the climatology (by about 5–10° latitude) and equatorward of the auroral boundary data acquired from the SSUSI sensor onboard the F18 DMSP satellite. We conclude that, if analyzed appropriately, high-latitude COSMIC profiles have the potential to contribute to our understanding of MI coupling processes and extend and improve existing models of the auroral region.
New concepts for the comparison of tropospheric NO2 column densities derived from car-MAX-DOAS observations, OMI satellite observations and the regional model CHIMERE during two MEGAPOLI campaigns in Paris 2009/10
Authors: Shaiganfar R. , Beirle S. , Petetin H. , Zhang Q. , Beekmann M. , Wagner T.
Published: July 2015

Abstract. We compare tropospheric column densities (vertically integrated concentrations) of NO2 from three data sets for the metropolitan area of Paris during two extensive measurement campaigns (25 days in summer 2009 and 29 days in winter 2010) within the European research project MEGAPOLI. The selected data sets comprise a regional chemical transport model (CHIMERE) as well as two observational data sets: ground-based mobile Multi-AXis-Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (car-MAX-DOAS) measurements and satellite measurements from the Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI). On most days, car-MAX-DOAS measurements were carried out along large circles (diameter ~ 35 km) around Paris. The car-MAX-DOAS results are compared to coincident data from CHIMERE and OMI. All three data sets have their specific strengths and weaknesses, especially with respect to their spatiotemporal resolution and coverage as well as their uncertainties. Thus we compare them in two different ways: first, we simply consider the original data sets. Second, we compare modified versions making synergistic use of the complementary information from different data sets. For example, profile information from the regional model is used to improve the satellite data, observations of the horizontal trace gas distribution are used to adjust the respective spatial patterns of the model simulations, or the model is used as a transfer tool to bridge the spatial scales between car-MAX-DOAS and satellite observations. Using the modified versions of the data sets, the comparison results substantially improve compared to the original versions. In general, good agreement between the data sets is found outside the emission plume, but inside the emission plumes the tropospheric NO2 vertical column densities (VCDs). are systematically underestimated by the CHIMERE model and the satellite observations (compared to the car-MAX-DOAS observations). One major result from our study is that for satellite validation close to strong emission sources (like power plants or megacities), detailed information about the intra-pixel heterogeneity is essential. Such information may be gained from simultaneous car-MAX-DOAS measurements using multiple instruments or by combining (car-) MAX-DOAS measurements with results from regional model simulations.
Chlorophyll a specific Δ14C, δ13C and δ15N values in stream periphyton: implications for aquatic food web studies
Authors: Ishikawa N. F. , Yamane M. , Suga H. , Ogawa N. O. , Yokoyama Y. , Ohkouchi N.
Published: July 2015

Abstract. We determined the isotopic composition of chlorophyll a in periphytic algae attached to a streambed substrate (periphyton). The samples were collected from a stream flowing on limestone bedrock in the Seri River, central Japan. Stable isotope ratios of carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) and natural radiocarbon abundances (Δ14C) were measured in chlorophyll a (δ13Cchl, δ15Nchl and Δ14Cchl) and bulk (δ13Cbulk, δ15Nbulk and Δ14Cbulk) for periphyton, pure aquatic primary producer (Cladophora sp.) and terrestrial primary producer (Quercus glauca). Periphyton δ13Cbulk and δ13Cchl values did not necessarily correspond to δ13Cbulk for an algal-grazing specialist (Mayfly larva, Epeorus latifolium), suggesting that periphyton δ13C values do not faithfully trace carbon transfer between primary producers and primary consumers. Periphyton Δ14Cchl values (−258 ‰ in April and −190 ‰ in October) were slightly lower than Δ14Cbulk values (−228 ‰ in April and −179 ‰ in October), but were close to the Δ14C value for dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) (−217 ± 31 ‰), which is a mixture of weathered carbonates (Δ14C = −1000 ‰) and dissolved atmospheric CO2 (Δ14C approximately +30 ‰ in 2013). Δ14Cchl values were also close to Δ14Cbulk for E. latifolium (−215 ‰ in April and −199 ‰ in October) and Cladophora sp. (−210 ‰), whereas the Δ14Cbulk value for Q. glauca (+27 ‰) was closer to Δ14C for atmospheric CO2. Although the bulk isotopic composition of periphyton is recognised as a surrogate for the photosynthetic algal community, natural periphyton is a mixture of aquatic and terrestrial organic materials. Our results indicate that the bulk periphyton matrix at the study site consists of 89 to 95 % algal carbon (derived from 14C-depleted DIC) and 5 to 11 % terrestrial organic carbon (derived from 14C-enriched atmospheric CO2).
Application of WRF/Chem over North America under the AQMEII Phase 2 – Part 2: Evaluation of 2010 application and responses of air quality and meteorology–chemistry interactions to changes in emissions and meteorology from 2006 to 2010
Authors: Yahya K. , Wang K. , Zhang Y. , Kleindienst T. E.
Published: July 2015

Abstract. The Weather Research and Forecasting model with Chemistry (WRF/Chem) simulation with the 2005 Carbon Bond (CB05) gas-phase mechanism coupled to the Modal for Aerosol Dynamics for Europe (MADE) and the volatility basis set approach for secondary organic aerosol (SOA) are conducted over a domain in North America for 2006 and 2010 as part of the Air Quality Model Evaluation International Initiative (AQMEII) Phase 2 project. Following the Part 1 paper that focuses on the evaluation of the 2006 simulations, this Part 2 paper focuses on a comparison of model performance in 2006 and 2010 as well as analysis of the responses of air quality and meteorology–chemistry interactions to changes in emissions and meteorology from 2006 to 2010. In general, emissions for gaseous and aerosol species decrease from 2006 to 2010, leading to a reduction in gaseous and aerosol concentrations and associated changes in radiation and cloud variables due to various feedback mechanisms. WRF/Chem is able to reproduce most observations and the observed variation trends from 2006 to 2010, despite its slightly worse performance than WRF that is likely due to inaccurate chemistry feedbacks resulting from less accurate emissions and chemical boundary conditions (BCONs) in 2010. Compared to 2006, the performance for most meteorological variables in 2010 gives lower normalized mean biases but higher normalized mean errors and lower correlation coefficients. The model also shows poorer performance for most chemical variables in 2010. This could be attributed to underestimations in emissions of some species, such as primary organic aerosol in some areas of the US in 2010, and inaccurate chemical BCONs and meteorological predictions. The inclusion of chemical feedbacks in WRF/Chem reduces biases in meteorological predictions in 2010; however, it increases errors and weakens correlations comparing to WRF simulations. Sensitivity simulations show that the net changes in meteorological variables from 2006 to 2010 are mostly influenced by changes in meteorology and those of ozone and fine particulate matter are influenced to a large extent by emissions and/or chemical BCONs and to a lesser extent by changes in meteorology. Using a different set of emissions and/or chemical BCONs helps improve the performance of individual variables, although it does not improve the degree of agreement with observed interannual trends. These results indicate a need to further improve the accuracy and consistency of emissions and chemical BCONs, the representations of SOA and chemistry–meteorology feedbacks in the online-coupled models.
Distributed model of hydrological and sediment transport processes in large river basins in Southeast Asia
Authors: Zuliziana S. , Tanuma K. , Yoshimura C. , Saavedra O. C.
Published: July 2015

Abstract. Soil erosion and sediment transport have been modeled at several spatial and temporal scales, yet few models have been reported for large river basins (e.g., drainage areas > 100 000 km2). In this study, we propose a process-based distributed model for assessment of sediment transport at a large basin scale. A distributed hydrological model was coupled with a process-based distributed sediment transport model describing soil erosion and sedimentary processes at hillslope units and channels. The model was tested on two large river basins: the Chao Phraya River Basin (drainage area: 160 000 km2) and the Mekong River Basin (795 000 km2). The simulation over 10 years showed good agreement with the observed suspended sediment load in both basins. The average Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE) and average correlation coefficient (r) between the simulated and observed suspended sediment loads were 0.62 and 0.61, respectively, in the Chao Phraya River Basin except the lowland section. In the Mekong River Basin, the overall average NSE and r were 0.60 and 0.78, respectively. Sensitivity analysis indicated that suspended sediment load is sensitive to detachability by raindrop (k) in the Chao Phraya River Basin and to soil detachability over land (Kf) in the Mekong River Basin. Overall, the results suggest that the present model can be used to understand and simulate erosion and sediment transport in large river basins.
Spatial random downscaling of rainfall signals in Andean heterogeneous terrain
Authors: Posadas A. , Duffaut Espinosa L. A. , Yarlequé C. , Carbajal M. , Heidinger H. , Carvalho L. , Jones C. , Quiroz R.
Published: July 2015

Abstract. Remotely sensed data are often used as proxies for indirect precipitation measures over data-scarce and complex-terrain areas such as the Peruvian Andes. Although this information might be appropriate for some research requirements, the extent at which local sites could be related to such information is very limited because of the resolution of the available satellite data. Downscaling techniques are used to bridge the gap between what climate modelers (global and regional) are able to provide and what decision-makers require (local). Precipitation downscaling improves the poor local representation of satellite data and helps end-users acquire more accurate estimates of water availability. Thus, a multifractal downscaling technique complemented by a heterogeneity filter was applied to TRMM (Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission) 3B42 gridded data (spatial resolution ~ 28 km) from the Peruvian Andean high plateau or \\textit{Altiplano} to generate downscaled rainfall fields that are relevant at an agricultural scale (spatial resolution ~ 1 km).
Diabetic patients' willingness to use tele-technology to manage their disease
Authors: Saddik Basema , Al-Dulaijan Norah
Published: July 2015

Objectives: Diabetes mellitus is a public health concern worldwide. TeleHealth technology may be an effective tool for empowering patients in the self-management of diabetes mellitus. However despite the great impact of diabetes on healthcare in Saudi Arabia, no research has investigated diabetic patients’ willingness to use this technology. This study investigates diabetic patients’ willingness to use tele-technology as a tool to monitor their disease.Methods:  Data were collected from diabetic patients attending the diabetes education clinic at the Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs (MNGHA) in the Eastern region of Saudi Arabia over a three month period. A survey was developed which measured patients’ willingness to use tele-technology in the self-management of their diabetes as well as their perceived expectations from the technology.Results: The study found that the majority of patients were willing to use tele-technology to self- monitor their diabetes. However, a minority (11.3%) indicated willingness to use the system daily and only half indicated preference to use it once a week (53.8%). Patients who were younger, had higher education levels, were employed, had internet access and had Type II diabetes were significantly more likely to report willingness to use the technology.Conclusions: Diabetic patients could be ready to play a more active role in their care if given the opportunity. Results from this study could serve as a baseline for future studies to develop targeted interventions by trialing tele-technology on a sample of the diabetic population. Patients with diabetes need to be in charge of their own care in order to improve health outcomes across the country. Keywords: diabetes, self-management, tele-technology, willingness.Abbreviations: Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs (MNGHA), Kingdom of Saud Arabia (KSA)
Corsaires vs pirates ou la formation d’un partenariat
public-privé pour l’établissement d’un
dispositif permanent face à la menace pirate
Authors: Lara Valentin
Published: July 2015

De toutes les menaces pesant sur la sûreté maritime, la piraterie est certainement celle qui a le plus fait parler d’elle ces dernières années. À la suite d’une série d’attaques inouïes de par leur niveau de violence, la communauté internationale dépêcha en 2008 une flotte militaire au large des côtes somaliennes afin d’y restaurer l’ordre et la sécurité. Toutefois, face aux coûts importants engendrés par un tel dispositif, une certaine doctrine n’a pas hésité à soutenir un recours accru au secteur privé dans le cadre de la lutte contre la piraterie. Pour ce faire, la question de la résurgence des lettres de marque, qui permettaient autrefois la guerre de course, fut notamment abordée. Cette tentative d’employer le système corsaire d’antan dans le contexte des enjeux maritimes du XXIe siècle n’est pas sans poser des questions sur la compatibilité d’un tel dispositif avec le droit international moderne. Bien loin d’écarter la pertinence d’un recours accru au secteur privé, l’auteur met toutefois l’accent sur la nécessité d’établir un système durable au sein duquel les entreprises pourront participer aux interventions navales présentes et futures. Après avoir établi les conditions d’usage des lettres de marque par les États, l’auteur suggère fortement la formation d’un partenariat entre le secteur public et le secteur privé, dont les modalités devront écarter tous risques inhérents au recours à des sociétés militaires privées.
De la compassion dans la consommation : le bannissement de la commercialisation des produits dérivés du phoque en sol européen et la défense de moralité publique à l’Organisation mondiale du commerce
Authors: Plouffe-Malette Kristine
Published: July 2015

Les différends commerciaux qui font valoir une défense de moralité publique n’ont occupé et n’occupent encore à ce jour que peu de place au sein des groupes spéciaux et de l’Organe d’appel de l’Organisation mondiale du commerce (OMC). Cette défense, véhiculée sous la forme d’une exception, n’a été soumise qu’à trois reprises aux « juges » de l’OMC, soit dans les affaires États-Unis – Jeux, Chine – Publications et produits audiovisuels et CE – Produits dérivés du phoque. La doctrine a depuis formulé plusieurs hypothèses qui consistent en autant de typologies des mesures dites de moralité publique. Le dernier différend en la matière, opposant le Canada et la Norvège à l’Union européenne, a permis d’apporter un nouvel éclairage sur cette exception en proposant un nouveau test de moralité. Celui-ci est formulé en deux étapes : (1) la détermination de la préoccupation des citoyens et (2) la qualification de moralité publique de la préoccupation des citoyens. L’énoncé comme la mise en oeuvre de ce test commandent que l’on s’y attarde afin d’en mesurer les effets et d’en comprendre les subtilités. Il sera principalement démontré que le Groupe spécial, confirmé sur ce point par l’Organe d’appel, semble s’écarter des précédents enseignements en matière de moralité publique en exigeant une justification de nature internationale de la préoccupation citoyenne, laquelle doit également être soutenue par une preuve de nature nationale, pour se voir reconnaître au titre d’exception commerciale de moralité publique.
Pour la fin des incongruités et incohérences entourant la défense de contrainte morale au Canada
Authors: Manirabona Amissi M. , Ouimet Marie-France
Published: July 2015

Cet article porte un regard critique sur les incongruités et les incohérences de la défense de contrainte morale en droit pénal canadien. Les auteurs soulèvent les difficultés liées à la fragmentation de ce moyen de défense ainsi que leurs conséquences négatives sur le traitement égal des personnes accusées du même crime. Le constat qui s’en dégage est que la défense de contrainte morale devrait être uniformisée sur le territoire canadien et harmonisée avec le droit international afin de permettre à tous ceux qui violent la loi en raison de l’absence d’autre choix viable de se prévaloir de ce moyen de défense. Enfin, à la lumière de l’état actuel du droit relatif à la défense de contrainte à la suite de l’arrêt R c Ryan, rendu récemment par la Cour suprême du Canada, les auteurs suggèrent une disposition inclusive qui devrait remplacer l’actuel article 17 du Code criminel.
La prohibition en droit français des conventions de procréation et de gestation pour le compte d’autrui : analyse critique à partir de quelques observations du droit québécois
Authors: Ouedraogo Richard
Published: July 2015

Au début du mois d’août 2014, le monde a
été témoin d’un effroyable fait divers
australo-thaïlandais, mettant en lumière les pires
dérives de l’internationalisation des fameux
« contrats de mère porteuse ». En effet,
l’abandon par un couple « commanditaire »
d’un enfant trisomique à sa mère porteuse a
suscité une grande émotion; il a aussi mis en
évidence la nécessité, en Occident comme partout
ailleurs, de mener un débat de fond pour évoluer vers des
législations plus responsables en matière de filiation,
qui respectent la dignité et l’intérêt de
l’enfant. C’est dans ce contexte que le présent
article se propose de remonter aux origines de la prohibition par le
droit français des contrats de mère porteuse, pour mettre
en évidence les fondements et les conséquences pratiques
pour les tribunaux. En procédant à une analyse
comparée des récentes réponses apportées
par les juges français et québécois à cette
problématique de l’encadrement des contrats de mère
porteuse, l’on tentera de proposer quelques pistes de
réflexion pour contribuer au débat en cours aussi bien en
France qu’au Québec.
Mental Health and Health-Related Quality of Life in Multiple Sclerosis Caregivers in Mexico
Authors: Leibach Gillian G. , Stern Marilyn , Arelis Adriana Aguayo , Islas Miguel Angel Macias , Barajas Brenda Viridiana Rábago
Published: July 2015

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) rates are increasing in Latin America, and caregiving for an individual with MS is associated with poorer mental and physical health outcomes. No existing research has examined the relation between mental health and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in MS caregivers in Latin America.

Methods: The present study examined the association between mental health (Patient Health Questionnaire-9, Satisfaction with Life Scale, Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory) and HRQOL (36-item Short Form Health Status Survey) in 81 Mexican MS caregivers.

Results: A canonical correlation analysis uncovered a large, significant overall association between mental health and HRQOL, with 52.7% of the variance shared between the two sets of constructs. When individual canonical loadings were examined in this analysis, the most substantial pattern that emerged was between depression and general health. Four regressions controlling for demographic variables found that HRQOL uniquely accounted for 19.0% of the variance in caregiver anxiety, 32.5% in depression, 13.5% in satisfaction with life, and 14.3% in self-esteem.

Conclusions: These findings demonstrated a strong association between HRQOL and mental health, which points to directions for future studies on interventions for MS caregivers, particularly in Mexican and other Latino populations.
Development of a Bilingual MS-Specific Health Classification System
Authors: Kuspinar Ayse , Bouchard Vanessa , Moriello Carolina , Mayo Nancy E.
Published: July 2015

Objective: The global aim of this study was to contribute to the development of the Preference-Based Multiple Sclerosis Index (PBMSI). The specific objective of this foundational work was to qualitatively review the items selected for inclusion in the PBMSI using expert and patient feedback.

Methods: Cognitive interviews were conducted with patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) in English and French. The verbal probing method was used to conduct the interviews. For each PBMSI item, the interviewer probed for specific information on what types of difficulty participants had with the item and the basis for their response for each item. Furthermore, respondents were asked to provide information on the clarity of the item, the meaning of the item, the appropriateness of the response options, and the recall period. All interviews were recorded using a digital voice recorder and were transcribed onto a computer.

Results: The mean age of the 22 respondents was 52 years, and 82% were women. Mean time since diagnosis was 12 years, and the highest level of education completed was university or college for 86% of the sample. Modifications were made to each item in terms of recall period, instructions, and phrasing.

Conclusions: Patient and expert feedback allowed us to clarify items, simplify language, and make items more uniform in terms of their instructions and response options. This qualitative review process will increase accuracy of reporting and reduce measurement error for the PBMSI.
Antiretroviral pre‐exposure prophylaxis implementation in the United States: a work in progress
Authors: Mayer Kenneth H , Hosek Sybil , Cohen Stephanie , Liu Albert , Pickett Jim , Warren Mitchell , Krakower Douglas , Grant Robert
Published: July 2015

Introduction

After the initial approval of the use of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate‐emtricitabine (TDF/FTC) by the US Food and Drug Administration in 2012 for anti‐HIV pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), uptake was initially limited, but more recent community surveys and expert opinion suggest wider acceptance in some key populations.

Discussion

Demonstration projects are underway to determine the best practices in the United States to identify at‐risk individuals in primary care and sexually transmitted disease clinics who could benefit from PrEP. Studies of PrEP in combination with behavioural interventions are being evaluated. Studies to evaluate the use of PrEP by HIV‐uninfected women in HIV‐discordant couples interested in safe conception are also getting underway. The optimal deployment of PrEP as part of a comprehensive national HIV/AIDS strategy in the United States has been limited by lack of knowledge among some at‐risk people and by some medical providers indicating that they do not feel sufficiently knowledgeable and comfortable in prescribing PrEP. Studies are underway to determine how to assist busy clinicians to determine which of their patients could benefit from PrEP. Although most federal health insurance programmes will cover most of the costs associated with PrEP, underinsured patients in states that have not enacted health reform face additional challenges in paying for PrEP medication and appropriate clinical monitoring.

Conclusions

PrEP implementation in the United States is a work in progress, with increasing awareness and uptake among some individuals in key populations.
Aripiprazole long-acting injectable (ABILIFY MAINTENA) for treatment of schizophrenia
Authors: Saklad Stephen R. , Kreys Tiffany-Jade , Phan Stephanie
Published: July 2015

Introduction

Patients with schizophrenia often relapse as a result of medication nonadherence.

Methods

Long-acting injectable antipsychotics have been developed to improve medication adherence rates in this patient population.

Results

Aripiprazole long-acting injection (LAI), branded Abilify Maintena®, received Food and Drug Administration approval for the treatment of schizophrenia in February of 2013. Aripiprazole LAI is the fourth intramuscular second-generation antipsychotic indicated for the treatment of schizophrenia.

Discussion

This manuscript reviews important clinical information regarding its use as well as efficacy and tolerability data.
Kinetic simulations of secondary reconnection in the reconnection jet
Authors: Huang S. Y. , Zhou M. , Yuan Z. G. , Fu H. S. , He J. S. , Sahraoui F. , Aunai N. , Deng X. H. , Fu S. , Pang Y. , Wang D. D.
Published: July 2015

Magnetic reconnection, as one important energy dissipation process in plasmas, has been extensively studied in the past several decades. Magnetic reconnection occurring in the downstream of a primary X line is referred to as secondary reconnection. In this paper, we used kinetic simulations to investigate the secondary reconnection in detail. We found that secondary reconnection is reversed by the compression caused by the outflowing jet originating from the primary reconnection site, which results in the erosion of the magnetic island between the two X lines within ~3 ωci−1. We show the observational signatures expected in electromagnetic fields and plasma measurements in the Earth's magnetotail, associated with this mechanism. These simulation results could be applied to interpret the signatures associated with the evolution of earthward magnetic islands in the Earth's magnetotail.