bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optical Absorption of Nd3+ Doped Tellurite Glass Containing Ag Nanoparticles
Authors: Azmi N.A. , Sahar Md Rahim , Ghoshal Sib Krishna
Published: February 2014

Understanding the optical properties of rare earth doped tellurite glasses with embedded metallic nanoparticles (NPs) are promising for photonics. Series of Nd3+ doped tellurite glasses containing Ag NPs having chemical composition (70-x)Te2O3-10MgO-20Li2CO3-0.5Nd2O3-xAg, where 0.0 x 1.0 mol% are synthesized. Their optical properties are measured using UV-Vis-NIR spectroscopy. The absorption spectra exhibits nine absorption bands in the wavelength range of 300-900 nm are obtained and the glass showed light emission due to 4F3/2 4I9/2 transition. The values of optical band gap Eopt and Urbach energy Eu are evaluated from the absorption band. The value of Eopt is found to lie between 2.78 and 2.91 eV for the direct transition whereas the Eu values lie between 0.27 and 0.37 eV. The optical behavior of the samples is studied with varying Ag NPs content and the results are compared with similar studies.
Microwave Absorption Characteristics of some Ferrite-Filled Polymer Composites
Authors: Mohd Idris Fadzidah , Hashim Mansor , Ismail Ismayadi , Ibrahim Idza Riati , Manap Masni , Ezzad Shafie Mohd Shamsul
Published: February 2014

Prior to their use for microwave absorption, different compositions of NixZn1-xFe2O4 (x = 0.5, 0.6, 0.7 and 0.8) were prepared via mechanical alloying and sintering. X-ray diffractometry (XRD) was used to investigate the crystalline phase formation. Scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) and field emission electron microscopy (FeSEM) were used to investigate the particle size and surface morphology respectively. The complex-permeability components, μʹ and μʺ, were also measured using an Agilent 4291B material analyzer from 1 MHz to 1 GHz. From the XRD results it is shown that at 900oC the full phase of nickel zinc ferrite was formed. The μʺ values suggest that the ferrite sample can absorb well microwave energy for frequencies 1 MHz to 1 GHz and higher. This is proved by microwave absorption measurements carried out up to 12 GHz.Keywords: NiZn-ferrite, microwave absorption, magnetic materials
Effect of Temperature on the Purity, Particle Size and Morphology of Fe2O3 Nanomaterials
Authors: Noor Azreen Abdul Rahman , Kamarulzaman Norlida , Badar Nurhanna , Nur Amalina Mustaffa , Norashikin Kamarudin
Published: February 2014

Iron Oxide, Fe2O3, has extensively been studied by many researchers because of their important uses for various applications such as magnetic storages, catalysts, anode, gas sensors and biomedical applications. In our work, Fe2O3 have been synthesized via a new self-propagating combustion (SPC) route using a weak organic acid as an oxidant. The precursor was annealed at three different temperatures. Three samples of Fe2O3 heated at 300 °C, 600 °C and 800 °C for 24 hours were characterized using X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM). The XRD pattern confirms that the crystal structure for both 600 °C and 800 °C samples are rhombohedral while for the 300 °C sample, rhombohedral and cubic phases are present. The SEM images showed that the 300 °C and 600 °C materials have irregular shapes. For the 800 °C sample the materials seem to be more crystalline with individual polyhedral shapes.
Effect of Sintering Temperature on the Microstructure, Electrical and Magnetotransport Properties of La0.67Sr0.33MnO3 Compound
Authors: Pah Lim Kean , Shaari Abdul Halim , Kien Chen Soo , Wei Chin Hui , Gan Albert , Wei Ng Siau , Hou Chong Kuen
Published: February 2014

In this work, we report the effect of sintering temperature (900°C, 1000°C, 1100°C and 1200°C) on the electrical and magnetotransport properties of polycrystalline La0.67Sr0.33MnO3 (LSMO). Single phase of LSMO hexagonal structure (R-3c) accompanied with minor phases was successfully synthesized by co-precipitation method. With increasing sintering temperature, grain growth was promoted and grain connectivity was improved. It was found that an enhancement of resistivity on smaller grain size was due to larger grain surface over volume (grain boundaries effect). The shifting of the metal-insulator transition (TMI) to higher temperature was also responsible for observed changes in physical properties. TMI of 900°C, 1000°C and 1100°C were 232 K, 278 K and 298 K respectively however 1200°C was out of measurement range (higher than 300 K). In summary, CP900 with smaller grain size distribution (~200 nm) displayed the highest resistivity and MR% of -19.2% (at 80 K, 10 kG).
Effect of Calcination Time on the Specific Capacities of LiNi0.4Co0.55Ti0.05O2 Cathode Materials
Authors: Kamarulzaman Norlida , Azahidi Azira , Elong Kelimah , Mohd Mokhtar Nurul Atikah , Mohdi Nurshafiza
Published: February 2014

One of the main goals for most of the research in advanced Li-ion batteries is to develop cathode materials with improvement on cost and toxicity. This is to replace the existing commercial cathode material, LiCoO2. LiNi0.4Co0.6O2 was introduced as one of the most promising candidates for a cathode material due to its lower cost and higher capacity compared with LiCoO2. Modification of cathode materials by substituting with other materials is one of the alternative ways to improve the electrochemical performance of the material. In this case, a little amount of Ti was substituted to replace Co in order to give the material LiNi0.4Co0.55Ti0.05O2. Results showed that the substituition of some Co with Ti improves the electrochemical behavior of the material.
The Effect of Fe and Al Substitution in LiNi0.8Co0.2O2 Cathode Material
Authors: Mohd Mokhtar Nurul Atikah , Azahidi Azira , Elong Kelimah , Badar Nurhanna , Kamarulzaman Norlida
Published: February 2014

The effect of different cation substitution on the electrochemical performance of layered LiNi0.8-xCo0.2MxO2 (M= Fe, Al; x=0.1) cathode materials were investigated. LiNi0.8-xCo0.2MxO2 (M= Fe, Al; x=0.1) cathode materials were successfully synthesized by a combustion method with an annealing temperature of 800 °C for 24h. The physical and electrochemical properties of the materials were examined using X-ray Diffractometer (XRD), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) and electrochemical charge-discharge. The XRD data showed that all the materials are single phase, hexagonal α-NaFeO2 type structure. The initial discharge capacity showed that Fe and Al substituted materials gave 8 % and 10 % improvement compared to LiNi0.8Co0.2O2 material. The discharge cycling also showed that the cycle stability has improved when Fe and Al was substituted. In view of electrochemical performance, Al containing sample was found to be superior to those of LiNi0.8Co0.2O2 and Fe substituted cathode materials.
Effect of Boron Carbide Addition on the Strength and Physical Properties of Concrete
Authors: Tajul Ariffin Fatin Nabilah , Hamid Roszilah , Abdullah Yusof , Haji Ahmad Sahrim , Muhammad Yusri Helmi
Published: February 2014

Concrete currently has become a conventional material in construction of nuclear reactor due to its properties such as safety, strength and economical in cost. Boron carbide (B4C) was used as additives in concrete are characterized as a good neutron absorber for nuclear reactor applications. The effect of B4C addition on physical and strength properties of concrete samples were investigated. The samples were prepared with three different weight percent (wt%) of B4C powder. The concrete slump tests of fresh concrete have been done to investigate the workability of mixtures. Free B4C mixture shows the highest workability compare to 5 and 20 wt% B4C concrete mixture. The density of 0 wt% of B4C is the lowest compared to 5 and 20 wt%. However, after 28 days curing time, the compressive strength test of 20 wt% B4C shows the highest value compare to 5 and 0 wt% B4C concrete respectively. It is obvious that up to 20 wt% B4C can be added to concrete mixture and cause significant strength increases.
Effect of High Intensity Light Irradiance on CuInSe2 Thin Films
Authors: Bin Chang Chung , Talib Zainal Abidin , Sabli Nordin
Published: February 2014

CuInSe2 has been a good candidate for photovoltaic material due to its direct band gap and high absorption coefficient. As the stability of photovoltaic are generally dependent on the aggressive environment, i.e. sun light, the CuInSe2 thin film can degrade after long exposure of high intensity light irradiance. The present study reports on the effect of high intensity light irradiance to the electrical and optical properties of thermal evaporated CuInSe2 thin films. The thin films were exposed to light intensity of 250 W/m2, 500 W/m2, 750 W/m2, 1000 W/m2 and 1500 W/m2 using halogen lamp. We noticed an increasing trend in resistivity after light exposure at all intensities due to the increase of light-induced defects in the films which act as recombination centre for electron-hole pair. Crystallinity of CuInSe2 thin films decreases with increasing intensity of light exposure as a result of light-induce defect. CuInSe2 thin films are found to have higher optical band gap compared to reported 1.01eV due to the amorphous structure of the film and relatively higher surface roughness.
High Temperature Storage and Gamma Radiation Effects on Mechanical Properties of Stacked Die Package
Authors: Jalar Azman , Wan Yusoff Wan Yusmawati , Othman Norinsan Kamil , Abdul Rahman Irman
Published: February 2014

Effect of gamma radiation (1.33 MeV) and high temperature storage of semiconductor package towards micromechanical properties has been investigated. The in-house fabricated Quad Flat No Lead was exposed to gamma radiation with the dose of 5 Gy. Afterwards, high temperature storage was performed at 150 °C for 10, 100 and 1000 hours. Subsequently, the three point bending technique was carried out to obtain the micromechanical properties of semiconductor package. The fracture of the packages caused by three point bending test was subjected to 3D CT scan to capture the image of the fracture. Irradiated package shows the decreasing in their strength with increasing doses of gamma radiation. However, the strength of the package was improved after high temperature storage for 10 hours and decreased as the storage period is extended. Further analysis exhibited that high temperature storage for 10 hours is reveal as good thermal treatment for package in radioactive environment application.
Comparison of K, Ca and Zn Substitution on the Superconducting and Structural Properties of YBa2Cu3-xMXOδ
Authors: Hidayah Hassan Nurul , Yahya S.Y.S. , Azhan H. , Azman K. , Hawa J.S. , Norazidah A.W.
Published: February 2014

The comparison substitution with K, Ca and Zn respectively at the Cu site of YBa2Cu3-xMxOδ (x = 0.00 and 0.20) was performed based on superconducting and structural properties. All samples were prepared via a solid state technique. Resistivity and current density measurements (zero magnetic fields) were done using the four probe method and the structural and morphological properties were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) respectively. The critical current density (Jc) and critical temperature (Tc zero) of the substituted samples were found to be lower than that of the pure sample. Tc zero with K and Zn substitution was 78 K and 21 K respectively. This is due to the change in the hole concentration. Jc measured at 50 K showed values of 3.9790 A/cm2, 4.4483 A/cm2 and 2.9854 A/cm2 for the pure sample, K and Ca substituted samples respectively. The decrease in Jc was due to the hole porosity and grain connection. All samples showed an orthorhombic crystal structure. The morphology of the fracture surface of samples as observed by FESEM displayed a loose structure of grain arrangement for sample Ca and Zn substituted samples.
Treatment of Coal Stockpile Wastewater by Electrocoagulationusing Aluminum Electrodes
Authors: Rusdianasari Rusdianasari , Bow Yohandri , Taqwa Ahmad
Published: February 2014

The performance of electro coagulation system with aluminum and iron electrodes to remove heavy metals from actual wastewater of coal's stockpile which has studied. The effects of process variables such as electrode material, current density and operation time for electro coagulation process are investigated on ferrous and manganese removal efficiencies. Preliminary results show that the electro coagulation process is able to enhance the removal of heavy metal contents. The batch experiment results showed that the high heavy metals which is contained wastewater coal's stockpile can be effectively treated by electro coagulation system using aluminum electrodes. The overall removal efficiencies of heavy metals have been obtained at 89.7% for ferrous and 94.6% for manganese, respectively. The removal rates of those elements were increase with operation time. Therefore, electro coagulation technique to remove high content of heavy metal and TSS from wastewater of coal's stockpile is found effective and friendly with the environment.
Microstructural and Magnetic Properties of Ti2+-Mn4+ Substituted Barium Hexaferrite
Authors: Manawan Maykel , Manaf Azwar , Soegijono Bambang , Yudi Asep
Published: February 2014

In this paper we report the microstructure and magnetic properties of Ti4+-Mn4+ ions substitued barium hexaferrites (BHF) with formula of BaFe12-2xMnxTixO19 (x = 0.2, 0.4, 0.6 and 0.8) which prepared by mechanical alloying and successive sintering at 1100 °C. Ti4+-Mn4+ ions were obtained from TiO2 and MnO precursors which were mechanically alloyed together with BaCO3 and Fe2O3 precursors. X-ray diffraction patterns for sintered samples confirmed that the materials are consisted with single phase BHF structure. Unit cell volume and crystallite size was found increase with increasing x. The crystallite size for all samples was below 70 nm, but microstructure observation shown that the particle size is in range of 200 - 400 nm, which concluded that the grains are polycrystalline. The saturation magnetization is increases up to x = 0.4 and decrease for higher x values, while the coercivity remain decreases monotonically. These results were interpreted in terms of the site preferential occupation of Ti2+ and Mn4+ at low level substitution.
Micromagnetic Study on the Dynamic Susceptibility Spectra of Square-Patterned Ferromagnets
Authors: Djuhana Dede , Kadir J. A. , Widodo A. T. , Kim D.H.
Published: February 2014

We have systematically investigated the dynamic susceptibility spectra of square-patterned ferromagnets in the mesoscopic scale from 100 nm to 500 nm by means of a micromagnetic simulation. The dynamic susceptibility spectra are obtained from the magnetization response under the applied field using Fourier transforms technique. We have observed that the frequency peak of the susceptibility spectra slightly increases as the length of the square-patterned increases. Interestingly, the frequency peak shows similar behavior compared to the frequency resonance from Kittel’s formula. We have also analyzed the magnetic energies, where the demagnetization energy is larger than the exchange energy. It can be explained that the polar interaction primarily contributes to the resonance mode of the square-patterned ferromagnets
Surficial geology, Reliance, Northwest Territories, NTS 75-K
Authors: Kerr D E , Knight R D , Sharpe D R , Cummings D I
Published: February 2014

The Reliance map area is characterized by three main elements based on distribution and nature of surficial sediments. The northeast and southeast map areas have a greater cover of fluted and drumlinized till blanket, with some transitional till veneer.
Throughout the rest of the map sheet, extensive areas of bedrock predominate, with minor isolated deposits of till. The Lockhart and Snowdrift river valleys are predominantly infilled by meandering alluvial and terraced glaciofluvial sediments, some with active dunes. In these valleys, terraces and
outwash plains occur at various elevations, including 230 m, 245 m, 260 m, 305 m, and 320 m a.s.l. Some may be related to glacial Lake McConnell, as are raised beaches at 335 m a.s.l. in McLeod Bay. Glaciofluvial corridors, of various magnitudes, consisting of eskers, ice-contact sediments, and
scoured bedrock, trend generally southwestward to westward across the map area. Isolated glaciolacustrine deltas record local ponding of glacial meltwater. The last dominant ice flow varied from southwestward to westward.
Occurrence and distribution of barite and sphalerite cement in the Mesozoic sandstones of the Scotian Basin
Authors: Pe-Piper G , Piper D J W , Zhang Y , Chavez I
Published: February 2014

Cementation of sandstone by minor barite and sphalerite is widespread in the Scotian Basin at burial depths > 2 km. These minerals provide further constraints on diagenetic processes and the nature of reservoir-quality risk in the exploration of this
basin. This report documents the mode of occurrence, geochemistry, and paragenetic sequence of diagenetic barite and sphalerite and the structural character of veins of these minerals. The texture and geochemistry of these minerals were analysed by scanning electron microscopy and electron
microprobe on samples from conventional core from 17 wells, sampling the geographic and stratigraphic range of the basin. Barite and sphalerite post-date silica and carbonate cementation, occurring in veins or occupying secondary porosity. They occur with diagenetic chlorite, pyrite, and titania
minerals. Sphalerite is common in Tithonian rocks of the Eastern Scotian Basin and in Early Cretaceous rocks of the Central Scotian Basin. Barite is also common in the Eastern Scotian Basin, particularly in the Tithonian, but is less common and shows no systematic variation with stratigraphy in the
Central Scotian Basin. Late barite veins cut Lower Cretaceous sandstones in the wells Wenonah J-75, South Desbarres O-76, and Onondaga O-95. The Sable Island C-67 well contains an unusual diagenetic assemblage including kutnohorite, late Mn-siderite and pyrite. Late dolomite is present in the
Onondaga O-95 well. Mississippi-Valley-type ore deposits show many similarities to the barite-sphalerite diagenesis described here, in the association with dolomitizing and Mn-rich fluids, the evidence for synchronous emplacement of hydrocarbons, and the ability of the fluids to create secondary
porosity in quartz. The distribution of barite and sphalerite can be used to constrain models of fluid flow in the basin.
Reactivation of latent melioidosis presenting with acute pyelonephritis and bacteremia
Authors: Shaaban Hamid , Hallit Rabih , Slim Jihad , Sree Aruna , Sensakovic John W
Published: February 2014

We report an interesting case involving an 81-year-old male patient who presented to our hospital with sepsis secondary to pyelonephritis and bacteremia. Blood cultures were positive for a Gram-negative bacillus, Burkholderia pseudomallei. His risk factors were diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease including travel to an endemic area. The patient received antibiotic therapy in accordance with the national guidelines. This is the first report of reactivation of latent melioidosis in the literature manifesting as pyelonephritis and bacteremia.
A Rare Case of Ibuprofen-Induced Eosinophilic Meningitis in a 13-Year-Old Girl
Authors: Bansal Sharad , Gupta Mukesh , Sharma Deepak , Bansal Shweta
Published: February 2014

Eosinophilic meningoencephalitis is based on clinical manifestations and microscopic identification of eosinophils present in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). It is caused by a variety of helminthic infections with most common being angiostrongyliasis, gnathostomiasis, toxocariasis, cysticercosis, schistosomiasis, baylisascariasis, and paragonimiasis. Many case reports are there in which parasites have been found responsible, but there are rare reports of CSF eosinophilia associated with the use of drugs. We report a case of drug-induced (ibuprofen) eosinophilic meningitis in a healthy female who presented to us with severe headache and improved dramatically after drug withdrawal.
Viral Isolates of a Novel Putative Phlebovirus in the Marche Region of Italy
Authors: Remoli Maria Elena , Fortuna Claudia , Marchi Antonella , Bucci Paola , Argentini Claudio , Bongiorno Gioia , Maroli Michele , Gradoni Luigi , Gramiccia Marina , Ciufolini Maria Grazia
Published: February 2014

Thirty pools from 900 (540 females and 360 males) Phlebotomus perfiliewi sandflies collected during the summer of 2012 in the Fermo area (Marche Region, central Italy) were tested for the presence of Phleboviruses. A nested polymerase chain reaction was performed using degenerated primers amplifying a fragment of the polymerase gene (large segment) and a fragment of the nucleoprotein gene (small segment) of the genus Phlebovirus. One pool was positive for Toscana virus, as expected from results of studies in the area, and six pools were positive for a putative novel Phlebovirus. Virus isolation in Vero cells was performed. Minimum field infection rates/1,000 insects processed for the novel and Toscana viruses were 6.7 and 1.0, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis of the novel Phlebovirus, tentatively named Fermo virus, placed it in the Sandfly Fever Naples virus serocomplex.
Infection of Laboratory-Colonized Anopheles darlingi Mosquitoes by Plasmodium vivax
Authors: Moreno Marta , Tong Carlos , Guzmán Mitchel , Chuquiyauri Raul , Llanos-Cuentas Alejandro , Rodriguez Hugo , Gamboa Dionicia , Meister Stephan , Winzeler Elizabeth A. , Maguina Paula , Conn Jan E. , Vinetz Joseph M.
Published: February 2014

Anopheles darlingi Root is the most important malaria vector in the Amazonia region of South America. However, continuous propagation of An. darlingi in the laboratory has been elusive, limiting entomological, genetic/genomic, and vector–pathogen interaction studies of this mosquito species. Here, we report the establishment of an An. darlingi colony derived from wild-caught mosquitoes obtained in the northeastern Peruvian Amazon region of Iquitos in the Loreto Department. We show that the numbers of eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults continue to rise at least to the F6 generation. Comparison of feeding Plasmodium vivax ex vivo of F4 and F5 to F1 generation mosquitoes showed the comparable presence of oocysts and sporozoites, with numbers that corresponded to blood-stage asexual parasitemia and gametocytemia, confirming P. vivax vectorial capacity in the colonized mosquitoes. These results provide new avenues for research on An. darlingi biology and study of An. darlingi–Plasmodium interactions.
Plexiform Neurofibroma of the Larynx: A Challenging Management Dilemma
Authors: Kapre Gauri
Published: February 2014

Introduction

Among the many causes responsible for stridor in the pediatric population, tumors of the larynx are relatively rare. Rarer still is the presence of endolaryngeal neurofibromas. Plexiform neurofibromas are associated with type I neurofibromatosis (NF1). Their typical characteristic is that they are diffuse tumors with indistinct margins, which makes complete resection a challenge and the chances of recurrences higher.

Objective

To document our experience with endolaryngeal neurofibromas and to discuss the treatment options available for this rare condition.

Methods

We present two cases of plexiform neurofibromas in pediatric patients. Both children presented with large supraglottic masses which interfered with breathing and swallowing. They also fulfilled the criteria for type I neurofibroma. Endolaryngeal approach with microdebrider and laser-assisted surgical excision was performed in both cases.

Result

Following surgery, both patients had uneventful recovery and no subsequent breathing or swallowing difficulties.

Conclusion

The dilemma in the management of endolaryngeal neurofibroma is the choice between endolaryngeal laser and aggressive external approach surgery. A short review of the limited existing literature shows that it is wiser to limit the surgery to as complete a resection as is possible endoscopically.

How to cite this article

Nerurkar NK, Kapre G. Plexiform Neurofibroma of the Larynx: A Challenging Management Dilemma. Int J Phonosurg Laryngol 2013;3(2):55-57.
Killian Jamieson Pouch: A Rarer Cervical Diverticulum
Authors: Bokare Bhagyashree , Patel Seema , Sakhare Prafulla , Desai Binhi , Pawde Apurva
Published: February 2014

Killian Jamieson diverticulum (KJD) is lesser common than Zenker's diverticulum (ZD). Various treatment modalities have been recommended but traditional surgical treatment has been recommended for a symptomatic KJD.

Recently, traditional open surgery for a symptomatic KJD is being challenged by the development of new endoscopic techniques and devices.

We document a rare report of a left KJD diagnosed on barium esophagogram and flexible endoscopy. Diverticulum excision and an esophagomyotomy was done and following treatment the patient's symptoms resolved and he recovered well.

How to cite this article

Sakhare P, Desai B, Bokare B, Patel S, Pawde A. Killian Jamieson Pouch: A Rarer Cervical Diverticulum. Int J Phonosurg Laryngol 2013;3(2):65-68.
Bilateral Mixed Laryngocele
Authors: Kalsotra Parmod , Gupta Rohan , Bhat Arshad , Singh KP
Published: February 2014

Laryngocele is a rare, benign dilatation of the laryngeal saccule that may extend internally into the airway or externally through the thyrohyoid membrane. The incidence of laryngocele is 1 per 2.5 million people per year. It may be asymptomatic or sometimes may present with cough, hoarseness, stridor, sore throat and as a swelling on one or both sides of the neck. We are reporting a case of bilateral mixed laryngocele in a 41 years old male, its clinical presentation and investigations along with a review of literature.

How to cite this article

Gupta R, Gupta S, Bhat A, Kalsotra P, Singh KP, Prakash O, Gupta S. Bilateral Mixed Laryngocele. Int J Phonosurg Laryngol 2013;3(2):69-72.
Ice nucleation by fertile soil dusts: relative importance of mineral and biogenic components
Authors: O'Sullivan D. , Murray B. J. , Malkin T. L. , Whale T. F. , Umo N. S. , Atkinson J. D. , Price H. C. , Baustian K. J. , Browse J. , Webb M. E.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. Agricultural dust emissions have been estimated to contribute around 20% to the global dust burden. In contrast to dusts from arid source regions, the ice-nucleating abilities of which have been relatively well studied, soil dusts from fertile sources often contain a substantial fraction of organic matter. Using an experimental methodology which is sensitive to a wide range of ice nucleation efficiencies, we have characterised the immersion mode ice-nucleating activities of dusts (d < 11 μm) extracted from fertile soils collected at four locations around England. By controlling droplet sizes, which ranged in volume from 10−12 to 10−6 L (concentration = 0.02 to 0.1 wt% dust), we have been able to determine the ice nucleation behaviour of soil dust particles at temperatures ranging from 267 K (−6 °C) down to the homogeneous limit of freezing at about 237 K (−36 °C). At temperatures above 258 K (−15 °C) we find that the ice-nucleating activity of soil dusts is diminished by heat treatment or digestion with hydrogen peroxide, suggesting that a major fraction of the ice nuclei stems from biogenic components in the soil. However, below 258 K, we find that the ice active site densities tend towards those expected from the mineral components in the soils, suggesting that the inorganic fraction of soil dusts, in particular the K-feldspar fraction, becomes increasingly important in the initiation of the ice phase at lower temperatures. We conclude that dusts from agricultural activities could contribute significantly to atmospheric IN concentrations, if such dusts exhibit similar activities to those observed in the current laboratory study.
The effect of low solublility organic acids on the hygroscopicity of sodium halide aerosols
Authors: Miñambres L. , Méndez E. , Sánchez M. N. , Castaño F. , Basterretxea F. J.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. In order to accurately assess the influence of fatty acids on the hygroscopic and other physicochemical properties of sea salt aerosols, hexanoic, octanoic or lauric acid together with sodium halide salts (NaCl, NaBr and NaI) have been chosen to be performed in this study. The hygroscopic properties of sodium halide submicrometer particles covered with organic acids have been examined by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy in an aerosol flow cell. Covered particles were generated by flowing atomized sodium halide particles (either dry or aqueous) through a heated oven containing the gaseous acid. The obtained results indicate that gaseous organic acids easily nucleate onto dry and aqueous sodium halide particles. On the other hand, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) images indicate that lauric acid coating on NaCl particles makes them to aggregate in small clusters. The hygroscopic behaviour of covered sodium halide particles in deliquescence mode shows different features with the exchange of the halide ion: whereas the organic covering has little effect in NaBr particles, NaCl and NaI covered particles change their deliquescence relative humidities, with different trends observed for each of the acids studied. In efflorescence mode, the overall effect of the organic covering is to retard the loss of water in the particles. It has been observed that the presence of gaseous water in heterogeneously nucleated particles tends to displace the cover of hexanoic acid to energetically stabilize the system.
Interpretation of observed microwave signatures from ground dual polarization radar and space multi-frequency radiometer for the 2011 Grímsvötn volcanic eruption
Authors: Montopoli M. , Vulpiani G. , Cimini D. , Picciotti E. , Marzano F. S.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. The important role played by ground-based microwave weather radars for the monitoring of volcanic ash clouds has been recently demonstrated. The potential of microwaves from satellite passive and ground-based active sensors to estimate near-source volcanic ash cloud parameters has been also proposed, though with little investigation of their synergy and the role of the radar polarimetry. The goal of this work is to show the potentiality and drawbacks of the X-band dual polarization (DPX) radar measurements through the data acquired during the latest Grímsvötn volcanic eruptions that took place in May 2011 in Iceland. The analysis is enriched by the comparison between DPX data and the observations from the satellite Special Sensor Microwave Imager/Sounder (SSMIS) and a C-band single polarization (SPC) radar. SPC, DPX, and SSMIS instruments cover a large range of the microwave spectrum, operating respectively at 5.4, 3.2, and 0.16–1.6 cm wavelengths.
Improved scattering radiative transfer for frozen hydrometeors at microwave frequencies
Authors: Geer A. J. , Baordo F.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. To simulate passive microwave radiances in all-sky conditions requires better knowledge of the scattering properties of frozen hydrometeors. Typically, snow particles are represented as spheres and their scattering properties are calculated using Mie theory, but this is unrealistic and particularly in deep-convective areas, it produces too much scattering in mid frequencies (e.g. 30–50 GHz) and too little scattering at high frequencies (e.g. 150–183 GHz). These problems make it hard to assimilate microwave observations in numerical weather prediction (NWP) models, particularly in situations where scattering effects are most important such as over land surfaces or in moisture sounding channels. Using the discrete dipole approximation to compute scattering properties, more accurate results can be generated by modelling frozen particles as ice rosettes or simplified snowflakes, though hexagonal plates and columns often give worse results than Mie spheres. To objectively decide on the best particle shape (and size distribution) this study uses global forecast departures from an NWP system (e.g. observation minus forecast differences) to indicate the quality of agreement between model and observations. It is easy to improve results in one situation but worsen them in others, so a rigorous method is needed: four different statistics are checked; these statistics are required to stay the same or improve in all channels between 10 GHz and 183 GHz and in all weather situations globally. The optimal choice of snow particle shape and size distribution is better across all frequencies and all weather conditions, giving confidence in its physical realism. Compared to the Mie sphere, most of the systematic error is removed and departure statistics are improved by 10 to 60%. However, this improvement is achieved with a simple “one-size-fits-all” shape for snow; there is little additional benefit in choosing the particle shape according to the precipitation type. These developments have improved the accuracy of scattering radiative transfer sufficiently that microwave all-sky assimilation is being extended to land surfaces, to higher frequencies and to sounding channels.
Effects of land management on large trees and carbon stocks
Authors: Kauppi P. E. , Birdsey R. A. , Pan Y. , Ihalainen A. , Nöjd P. , Lehtonen A.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. Large trees are important and unique organisms in forests, providing ecosystem services including carbon dioxide removal from the atmosphere and long-term storage. There is concern about reports of global decline of big trees. Based on observations from Finland and the United States we report that trends of big trees during recent decades have been surprisingly variable among regions. In southern Finland, the growing stock volume of trees larger than 30 cm at breast height increased nearly five-fold during the second half of the 20th century, yet more recently ceased to expand. In the United States, large hardwood trees have become increasingly common since the 1950s, while large softwood trees declined until the mid 1990's as a consequence of harvests in the Pacific region, and then rebounded when harvesting there was reduced. We conclude that in the regions studied, the history of land use and forest management governs changes of tree populations especially with reference to large trees. Large trees affect greatly the carbon density of forests and usually have deeper roots and relatively lower mortality than small trees. An accumulating stock of large trees in forests may have negligible direct biophysical effects on climate because from changes in transpiration or forest albedo. Large trees have particular ecological importance and often constitute an unusually large proportion of biomass carbon stocks in a forest. Understanding the changes in big tree distributions in different regions of the world and the demography of tree populations makes a contribution to estimating the past impact and future potential of the role of forests in the global carbon budget.
Dams on Mekong tributaries as significant contributors of hydrological alterations to the Tonle Sap Floodplain in Cambodia
Authors: Arias M. E. , Piman T. , Lauri H. , Cochrane T. A. , Kummu M.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. River tributaries have a key role in the biophysical functioning of the Mekong Basin. Of particular attention are the Sesan, Srepok, and Sekong (3S) rivers, which contribute nearly a quarter of the total Mekong discharge. Forty two dams are proposed in the 3S, and once completed they will exceed the active storage of China's large dam cascade in the upper Mekong. Given their proximity to the lower Mekong floodplains, the 3S dams could alter the flood-pulse hydrology driving the productivity of downstream ecosystems. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to quantify how hydropower development in the 3S would alter the hydrology of the Tonle Sap floodplain, the largest wetland in the Mekong and home to one of the most productive inland fisheries in the world. We coupled results from four numerical models representing the basin's surface hydrology, water resources development, and floodplain hydrodynamics. The scale of alterations caused by hydropower in the 3S was compared with the basin's definite future development scenario (DF) driven by the upper Mekong dam cascade. The DF or the 3S development scenarios could independently increase Tonle Sap's 30 day minimum water levels by 30 ± 5 cm and decrease annual water level fall rates by 0.30 ± 0.05 cm d−1. When analyzed together (DF + 3S), these scenarios are likely to eliminate all baseline conditions (1986–2000) of extreme low water levels, a~particularly important component of Tonle Sap's environmental flows. Given the ongoing trends and large economic incentives in the hydropower business in the region, there is a high possibility that most of the 3S hydropower potential will actually be exploited and that dams would be built even in locations where there is a high risk of ecological disruptions. Hence, retrofitting current designs and operations to promote sustainable hydropower practices that optimize multiple river services – rather than just maximize hydropower generation – appear to be the most feasible alternative to mitigate hydropower-related disruptions in the Mekong.
Monstrosity, Anxiety and the Real: Representations of the Victorian Metropolis in David Lynch's The Elephant Man
Authors: Lange Torsten
Published: February 2014

The following paper will offer an interpretation of David Lynch's film The Elephant Man, and its representations of late-Victorian London as a monstrous and deformed body. Besides tracing these themes in a discussion of exemplary scenes of the film, I wish to illuminate how underlying notions of monstrosity in the writings of Victorian urban explorers and reformers contributed to ideas and anxieties about the body and domesticity, and helped to promote the image of a clean, sanitized and civilized city. I will make use of a range of theoretical and historical approaches developed within and inbetween a variety of disciplines such as anthropology, geography and architectural history, as well as literary studies, film theory and psychoanalysis, and, in so doing, aim to complicate the image of the monstrous metropolis.
Enhancing Urban Productivity in Africa
Authors: Franklin Obeng-Odoom
Published: February 2014

While cities in advanced economies contribute 85% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), cities in low income economies, including Africa, contribute only 55% of GDP (Tibaijuka, 2006). It may be trite to say that low productivity and economic growth are characteristic of the urban economy of the developing world. This paper has four sections: section one explains ‘productivity’ and describes the main sources of urban productivity; section two discusses urban management in Africa, using Ghana as a case study; section three analyses how urban productivity can be promoted in Africa and the major constraints on city managers; the paper concludes with section four, suggesting that real changes are possible.
The Future of the Brain
Authors: Fleming Stephen
Published: February 2014

The brain has had a fairly uneventful past. It has evolved: millions of years of expansion and adaptation have added enormously to its capacity for controlling behaviour in the service of survival. But beyond this Darwinian miracle, it has been affected by little else. Such evolutionary changes have been incremental – as far as we know, the brain didn’t undergo a quantum leap in complexity or function. Its future, on the other hand, may be very different. Sudden enlargement of faculties could become commonplace. In this article I allude to what that world might be like, and consider the philosophical implications of technological advances for the humble brain.
A Uniquely British Indian Experience: Nitin Sawhney and Friends, BBC Prom 37. Royal Albert Hall, London, 10 August 2007
Authors: Buch Rachit
Published: February 2014

This summer, British Indian artist Nitin Sawhney was granted the Royal Albert Hall for the occasion of BBC Prom 37, and gave an immensely accomplished performance. Sawhney, a veteran of seven studio albums and numerous live acts, represents the latest attempt by Prom director Nicholas Kenyon to reach a wider audience. The result was a multi-faceted musical evening, featuring orchestral film scores, Indian classical music instruments and dance. Although the addition of Zero Degrees’ choreographed narratives seemed to be a somewhat unnecessary addition, and the acoustics were not well suited for some of the pieces, the event proved to be a resounding success for Sawhney and the Proms.
The lichen family Parmeliaceae in Poland. III. Parmelia serrana, new to Poland
Authors: Ossowska Emilia , Szymczyk Rafał , Bohdan Adam , Kukwa Martin
Published: February 2014

Parmelia serrana A. Crespo, M.C. Molina & D. Hawksw. is reported here for the first time from Poland. The species has been recorded from more than 20 localities and exclusively on the bark of trees. Its general distribution, habitat requirements, morphology, secondary chemistry are provided and the differences between this species and similar taxa, especially P. saxatilis and P. ernstiae, are discussed.
Transform the lowly rebate into the upfront cash of a coupon bonanza!
Authors: Goetz Melanie K.
Published: February 2014

Following the research‐based notion that consumer spending is influenced by the way in which money is received, two utilities found business success in offering coupons to their customers.
Water Markets: A New Tool for Securing Urban Water Supplies?
Authors: Richter Brian
Published: February 2014

City water planners are finding it increasingly difficult to secure additional water supplies in many water‐short regions. Although overall water use in the United States has been relatively stable since the 1980s, urban water demands ‐ driven by population growth and expanding economic production ‐ continue to rise in many cities, outstripping gains in water use efficiency and other demand‐management strategies. The ability to acquire new water supplies by purchasing permanent water rights or leasing water on a temporary basis is providing new options for city water planners in some parts of the world, including the western United States.
Testing an innovative evaporative suppressant for reducing losses from lakes
Authors: Sovocool Kent , Morgan Mitchell , Drinkwine Michael , Sims Daniel , Toussaint Greg
Published: February 2014

At a 28.5‐acre artificially created lake in Nevada, a short‐term trial of an evaporative suppressant decreased evaporative loss in comparative containers, but results for the lake application were inconclusive because of several confounding factors.
Las contiendas musicales de Apolo
Authors: Robledo Estaire Luis
Published: February 2014

ABSTRACT: This article studies the contemporizing of the ethical and social connotations ascribed to string and wind instruments by the Grecolatin tradition that Hispanic Emblematics carried out in the 16th and 17th centuries. This is most evident in the depiction of the legend of Apollo in his respective musical competitions against Marsyas and Pan. This contemporizing of the legends allows us to perceive the political, social and religious dimensions that these musical contests acquire in the Hispanic World. KEYWORDS: Apollo, Marsyas, Pan, Midas, Cithern, Lyre, Aulos, Vihuela, Guitar.   RESUMEN: Se examina la actualización llevada a cabo por la emblemática hispana de los siglos XVI y XVII de las connotaciones ético-sociales que la tradición grecolatina había conferido a los instrumentos de cuerda y de viento, que fueron condensadas en las leyendas de Apolo enfrentándose, respectivamente, a Marsias y a Pan. Dicha actualización permite ver las dimensiones política, social y religiosa que adquieren las contiendas musicales de Apolo en el mundo hispánico. PALABRAS CLAVES: Apolo, Marsias, Pan, Midas, cítara, lira, aulós, vihuela, guitarra.
Laurentius Lotus [Lorenzo Lotto]. De Amore
Authors: González de Zárate Jesús Mária
Published: February 2014

ABSTRACT: In the study presented here of some portraits by Lorenzo Lotto, I have attempted to establish a reading of the image, of the details that the artist offers us in his canvas which, to my way of thinking, orient us towards the semantic meaning of the painting. In this concrete case I deal with the theme of love. This entails, therefore, an in-depth exploration of the story that the artist wishes to consider through his work, with the aim of recording and classifying the image by analyzing both its graphic as well as literary precedents. KEY WORDS: Lorenzo Lotto, Portrait, Love, Allegory, Iconography.   RESUMEN: En el estudio presentado aquí sobre algunos retratos de Lorenzo Lotto, se ha tratado de establecer una lectura de la imagen, de los detalles que el artista nos ofrece en el lienzo y que, a nuestro parecer, orientan el sentido semántico de la pintura. En este caso considerando el argumento del amor. Supone, por lo tanto, adentrarse en la búsqueda de la historia que desea considerar el artista a través de su obra y, todo ello, en función de historiar la imagen analizando sus precedentes tanto gráficos como literarios. PALABRAS CLAVES: Lorenzo Lotto, retrato, amor, alegoría, iconografía.
Pierio Valeriano. Jeroglíficos. Prólogo General y Libros I–V. Francisco José Talavera Esteso
Authors: Antón Martínez Beatriz
Published: February 2014

Recensión crítica de Pierio Valeriano. Jeroglíficos. Prólogo General y Libros I–V, Introducción, edición crítica, traducción anotada e índices al cuidado de Francisco José Talavera Esteso, Alcañiz – Madrid, 2013, pp. CLXXXV+387.
Le porte della storia. L’Età Moderna attraverso antiporte e frontespizi figurati. Genoveffa Palumbo
Authors: Cantù Francesca
Published: February 2014

Recensión crítica del libro de Genoveffa Palumbo: Le porte della storia. L’Età Moderna attraverso antiporte e frontespizi figurati, Roma, Viella, 2012, 562 p.Il libro di Genoveffa Palumbo, dedicato allo studio delle antiporte e dei frontespizi delle opere a stampa pubblicate nel lungo arco temporale che va dal secolo XVI al secolo XVIII, è il frutto di un originale percorso di ricerca maturato in lunghi anni di assiduo lavoro, sostenuto da brillanti intuizioni, preziosa erudizione, approfondite riflessioni storiche.
Fluorescent sensors for activity and regulation of the nitrate transceptor CHL1/NRT1.1 and oligopeptide transporters
Authors: Ho Cheng-Hsun , Frommer Wolf B
Published: February 2014

To monitor nitrate and peptide transport activity in vivo, we converted the dual-affinity nitrate transceptor CHL1/NRT1.1/NPF6.3 and four related oligopeptide transporters PTR1, 2, 4, and 5 into fluorescence activity sensors (NiTrac1, PepTrac). Substrate addition to yeast expressing transporter fusions with yellow fluorescent protein and mCerulean triggered substrate-dependent donor quenching or resonance energy transfer. Fluorescence changes were nitrate/peptide-specific, respectively. Like CHL1, NiTrac1 had biphasic kinetics. Mutation of T101A eliminated high-affinity transport and blocked the fluorescence response to low nitrate. NiTrac was used for characterizing side chains considered important for substrate interaction, proton coupling, and regulation. We observed a striking correlation between transport activity and sensor output. Coexpression of NiTrac with known calcineurin-like proteins (CBL1, 9; CIPK23) and candidates identified in an interactome screen (CBL1, KT2, WNKinase 8) blocked NiTrac1 responses, demonstrating the suitability for in vivo analysis of activity and regulation. The new technology is applicable in plant and medical research.