bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Drinking Water Aptness in Some Directorates of Dhamar – Yemen
Authors: Othman Mokhtar
Published: July 2024

This study comprised an environmental evaluation of drinking water aptness, vital physical and chemical analyses were conducted for eight samples of some wells located in villages of Directorates of Dhamar Governorate, the study aimed to evaluate the suitability of drinking water used by local residents of these villages of which having higher water demand for irrigation and drinking, Results of this study indicated that most of action and anion concentrations are within the safe limits that are internationally and locally permitted, except for fluoride concentration which found to be exceeding the range values recommended by the World Health Organization, the results of this investigation showed that the degree of teeth injury of those people included in the investigation were uncertain (11%) and very light (13%); however, (47%) had mild injury and (29%) had medium injury, as per Dean's scale for teeth health assessment, Therefore, there is health hazard to consumers of these water-studied samples due to their higher fluoride concentrations,The results of bacteriological analysis showed no single sample contained any number of total coli forms and fecal coli forms.
The prevalence of domestic distribution for bugs Cimex lectularius (L. ) in Dhamar
Authors: Alsanabani Abdulwahab
Published: July 2024

Household Bugs (bed bugs) snooped object externally on human organisms warm-blooded birds, rodents and domesticated animals. The study was conducted for the purpose of identifying the household bugs and the extent of the percentage spread and wherever they are located in different areas in the city of Dhamar, during the period from May to August 2013. The study groups were divided into the first two groups consisted of hotels and guest houses for the bed of workers and others, as well as shops used to spend the night in Dhamar where I took the averages for each of these sites, where the total number of adult women in this group (315) seriously by (49.8%). The second group was made to the restrooms and only represented the district (residential market Rabua, home and street Rada and the Western Ring Road) by a very 317 seriously by (50.2%)results shown in the first study, the presence of bugs in abundance Breaks 180 seriously (28.5%), followed by shops, 90 (14%) and 45 hotels (7%) The second group showed an abundance object district Rada Street 152 highly (24%), followed by Rabua market district 46 seriously (7.3%), and 44 residential neighborhood very (7%), and 35 great-west (5.5%) followed by 25 home neighborhood very (4%) and finally neighborhood Taiz St. 15 seriously 2.4%),. During the results there is only one type only in this thoughtful places
DESIGN OF A WEB-BASED STUDENT ATTENDANCE APPLICATION AT SMAK PADANG VOCATIONAL SCHOOL
Authors: Dahri Nuraeni , Hermanto Erit
Published: July 2024

The design of a web-based filing system at SMK SMAK Padang aims to overcome the problem of an ineffective and efficient filing system at SMK SMAK Padang. The process of controlling the filing system that runs at SMK SMAK Padang is still done manually. This can slow down the search process for letter archives at the school.
The system design in this Final Project (TA) was built using a website platform and run online. The research method uses the System Development Life Cycle (SDLC). System design tools use the Unified Modeling Language (UML) method using 4 design diagrams namely Usecase Diagrams, Sequence Daigrams, Activity Diagrams and Class Diagrams.
Photography as protogeometry
Authors: Dvořák Tomáš
Published: July 2024

The article investigates relationships between measuring and imagemaking, focusing on the common historical context for the universalization of measurement standards and the emergence of photography. It discusses several artworks that directly tackle the problem of measurement and standardization (Marcel Duchamp’s 3 stoppages-étalon; John Baldessari’s Throwing Three Balls in the Air to Get a Straight Line (Best of Thirty-Six Attempts); and Sasha Litvintseva’s and Beny Wagner’s Constant) to demonstrate the tension between the particular and the universal, the material and the ideal, and to claim that both metrological standards and technical images always exist as multiple variants of idealized entities.
Modal structure of high power thin-disk vortex laser under thermal effect
Authors: Lian Tian-Hong , Dou Yi-Qun , Zhou Lei , Liu Yun , Kou Ke , Jiao Ming-Xing ,   School of Mechanical and Precision Instrument Engineering, Xi’an University of Technology, Xi’an 710048, China
Published: July 2024

Optical vortex beam has wide applications in areas of optical communication, lidar detection and optical trapping. To increase the operating distance, a high-power vortex laser source is necessary in these applications. However, the purity of the output vortex beam decreases with the pump power increasing due to the thermal effect of the laser medium. Therefore, modal field degeneration induced by thermal effect of laser medium has become a key problem in high-power vortex solid-state laser. To investigate this modal field degeneration, the heat transfer and thermal deformation model of an annular beam end pumped thin-disk vortex laser (Fig. (a)) is established. The phase difference of the thermal effect is calculated based on this model. Then, the quadratic term is separated from the phase difference. The non-quadratic term, as a small perturbation, is substituted into the diffraction integral equation of the laser cavity. The modal field structure is obtained by using the perturbation method. The variations of the modal structure with pump power, absorption coefficient and crystal thickness are investigated for three kinds of laser crystals, i.e. Nd:YAG, Nd:YLF and Nd:YVO4. The results show that the modal field under thermal effect presents obvious deviation from the ideal mode at high power, and the modal structure shows that it contains many higher-order radial modes, with the angular mode order unchanged. Hence, the radial modal spectrum is broadened by the thermal effect. For an ideal vortex laser without thermal effect operating on the radial mode order 0 and angular mode order 1, Fig. (b) shows the modal structures with thermal effect under different pump power values with a laser crystal thickness of 1 mm. The ratio of the higher-order modes increases and the modal structure becomes more and more complex with the pump power increasing. The ratios of the ideal mode are 0.99, 0.97, 0.90, 0.79 and 0.61, under the pump power of 10 W, 20 W, 40 W, 60 W and 100 W, respectively. Moreover, the Nd:YVO4 laser has the largest and the Nd:YAG laser has the smallest modal spectrum broadening under the same pump power. Figure (c) shows the variation of the modal purity with the pump power. The modal purity of the Nd:YVO4 and the Nd:YLF laser decrease to 0.35 and 0.44 at the pump power of 100 W, respectively. We also investigate the modal structures under different absorption coefficients and crystal thickness values. A larger absorption coefficient or a smaller crystal thickness leads to a larger radial modal spectrum broadening and a smaller modal purity. These results indicate that in the design of high-power thin-disk vortex laser, it is necessary to comprehensively optimize the disk thickness and the absorption coefficient, and consider modal spectrum broadening as well.
Study on the inhibitory mechanism of fig leaf extract against postharvest Fusarium in melon
Authors: Yao Jun , Geng Xinli , Zheng Heyun , Wang Zhiwei , Zhang Cuihuan , Li Jing , Maimaiti Zaituna , Qin Yong
Published: July 2024

The objective of this study was to explore the fungistatic mechanism of fig leaf extract against Fusarium and to provide a theoretical basis for the development of new plant-derived fungicides.

Methods

The fungistaticity of fig leaf extract were analyzed by the ring of inhibition method. Fusarium equiseti was selected as the target for analyzing its fungistatic mechanism in terms of mycelial morphology, ultrastructure, cell membrane permeability, membrane plasma peroxidation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) content and changes in the activity of protective enzymes. The effect of this extract was verified in melon, and its components were determined by metabolite analysis using ultraperformance liquid chromatography‒mass spectrometry (UPLC‒MS).

Results

Fig leaf extract had an obvious inhibitory effect on Fusarium, and the difference was significant (P < 0.05) or highly significant (P < 0.01). Scanning and transmission electron microscopy revealed that F. equiseti hyphae exhibited obvious folding, twisting and puckering phenomena, resulting in an increase in the cytoplasmic leakage of spores, interstitial plasma, and the concentration of the nucleus, which seriously damaged the integrity of the fungal cell membrane. This phenomenon was confirmed by propidium iodide (PI) and fluorescein diacetate (FAD) staining, cell membrane permeability and malondialdehyde (MDA) content. Fig leaf extract also induced the mycelium to produce excessive H2O2,which led to lipid peroxidation of the cell membrane, promoted the accumulation of MDA, accelerated protein hydrolysis, induced an increase in antioxidant enzyme activity, and disrupted the balance of ROS metabolism; these findings showed that fungal growth was inhibited, which was verified in melons. A total of 1,540 secondary metabolites were detected by broad-targeted metabolomics, among which the fungistatic active substances flavonoids (15.45%), phenolic acids (15%), and alkaloids (10.71%) accounted for a high percentage and the highest relative content of these substances 1,3,7,8-tetrahydroxy-2- prenylxanthone, 8-hydroxyquinoline and Azelaic acid were analysed for their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, preventive effects against plant diseases and acquisition of resistance by plants. This confirms the reason for the fungicidal properties of fig leaf extracts.

Conclusion

Fig leaf extract has the potential to be developed into a plant-derived fungicide as a new means of postharvest pathogen prevention and control in melon.
Paisajes de Mediación: Soluciones basadas en naturaleza para el diseño de infraestructura multipropósito en la desembocadura del río Huasco
Authors:   , Garcés Moreno Constanza Fernanda
Published: July 2024

Las infraestructuras viales, como carreteras o autopistas, atraviesan el paisaje y juegan un papel fundamental en el desarrollo de las sociedades. Sin embargo, no se han abordado desde disciplinas relacionadas con el estudio del paisaje, lo que ha generado problemas ambientales. En Chile, se está llevando a cabo un proyecto de ruta costera nacional que tiene como objetivo fortalecer la integración del país, impulsar el turismo y promover el desarrollo económico y social. Sin embargo, esta infraestructura podría convertirse en una amenaza para los ecosistemas frágiles de la región de Atacama, incluyendo los humedales costeros. El tramo de esta ruta que aún falta por construir se encuentra en la zona de la desembocadura del río Huasco, lo que plantea desafíos ambientales durante su ejecución.Este estudio aborda el desafío de desarrollar un tramo en la ruta costera nacional en Chile inevitablemente en algunos puntos atraviesa ecosistemas frágiles, como humedales costeros, en el contexto del cambio climático y la necesidad de infraestructuras viales sostenibles. La investigación y proyecto se centra en la desembocadura del río Huasco y propone un enfoque innovador: la creación de un paisaje de mediación a través de la arquitectura del paisaje. Este enfoque integra soluciones basadas en la naturaleza para mitigar los impactos negativos y promover la resiliencia de los ecosistemas costeros.De esta manera, se hace evidente que la creación de este proyecto de conectividad en un entorno frágil debe basarse en un diseño orientado hacia la arquitectura del paisaje con un enfoque multipropósito y soluciones basadas en la naturaleza. Esto contribuirá a encontrar métodos replicables y adecuados para contrarrestar los efectos negativos efectuados por infraestructuras en ecosistemas, abordando así los desafíos locales y globales.
Efficacy of Chandan Bala Lakshadi Tail Matra Basti as Adjuvant Therapy in the Anorectal Ailments: A Case Series
Authors: Mavale Abhishek Dattatray , Dasar Devyani , Singh Naveen
Published: July 2024

Ayurveda mentions several anorectal ailments, among which are Bhagandara (Anal Fistula), Guda vidhradhi (Rectal Abscess), Parikartika (Anal Fissure), and Arsha (Haemorrhoid), which are the most common. These illnesses may have several underlying causes and may result in a wide variety of symptoms. Present case series discusses a total of five instances in which majority of the patients were between the ages of 20 and 80 years. Pain and burning sensations during and after defecation, as well as perineal haemorrhage and hard stools, were prevalent complaints among these patients. Through local and physical examination, three anorectal ailments were detected: Arsha (internal external haemorrhoids), Bhagandara (anal fissure), and Parikartika (fissure in ano). Ultimately, anorectal procedures were carried, such as haemorrhoidectomy and Lord’s anal dilatation with Kshara Sutra ligation. Anorectal concerns might impact a person’s quality of life as they are unsettling, painful, and occasionally even life-altering. In the early stages, current therapy includes the use of soothing creams, gels, oral analgesics, and stool softeners, as well as surgical interventions such as sphincterotomy, fissurectomy, and Lord’s dilatation. In anorectal conditions like Parikartika (anorectal fissure), Bhagandara (anorectal fistula), and Arsha (haemorrhoids), a more effective alternative treatment must be developed. Chandan bala Lakshadi Tail Matra Basti is beneficial in reducing irritation, spasm, and the perception of pain as well as bleeding per rectum and anal inflammation.
Multiple Coagulation Factor Deficiency: A Series of Eight Cases
Authors: Lakshman Abhijith , Suman Febe Renjitha , Vasugi Gramani Arumugam
Published: July 2024

Multiple Coagulation Factor Deficiency (MCFD) is an uncommon haematological disorder characterised by simultaneous deficiency of multiple clotting factors, which leads to an increased risk of bleeding and compromised haemostasis. The present series aimed to provide a comprehensive analysis of MCFD, shedding light on its aetiology, clinical manifestations, and potential therapeutic interventions in a case-by-case manner, highlighting the individualised treatment options that are needed for many of these cases. A prospective combined clinical and laboratory study was performed on all patients who presented with bleeding tendencies and were subsequently diagnosed with MCFD. Clinical records and laboratory data of all these patients were reviewed to identify commonalities and variations among affected individuals. Haematological assays were performed to quantify the extent of coagulation factor deficiencies. The present series identified a diverse cohort of eight individuals (2 females and 6 males) with MCFD, showcasing variability in age of onset, severity of symptoms, and potential underlying genetic mutations. Clotting factor assays revealed deficiencies of Factor V and Factor VIII (F5F8D), Vitamin K-dependent clotting factor deficiency, and failure of synthesis of clotting factors of hepatic origin. Clinically, patients presented with a spectrum of bleeding phenotypes, ranging from mild to severe, requiring tailored therapeutic strategies. The present series provides an overview of some of the presentations of MCFD, emphasising the need for a multidisciplinary approach in its diagnosis and management. Clinicians should be vigilant in recognising the varied clinical presentations of MCFD and consider genetic testing for precise diagnosis and management.
Antimicrobial Resistance and Phenotypic Detection of Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamase in Escherichia coli from Children with Cases of Diarrhea in Nasarawa-South, Nasarawa State, Nigeria
Authors: AT Zakou , YB Ngwai , IH Nkene , D Ishaleku , RH Abimiku , IK Ekeleme
Published: July 2024

Aims: This study investigates the antimicrobial resistance and phenotypic detection of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase in Escherichia coli from children with cases of diarrhea in Nasarawa-south, Nasarawa State, Nigeria.
Place and Duration of Study: Nasarawa South, Nigeria, in 2023.
Methodology: A total of 251 non-duplicate E. coli isolates were collected from Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital Lafia (DASHL), General Hospitals Awe (GHA), General Hospital Doma (GHD), General Hospital Obi (GHO) and General Hospital Keana (GHK); and confirmed using standard microbiological methods. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing and phenotypic detection of ESBL production in the isolates were carried out using disc diffusion methods. 
Results: The isolates were highly resistant (74.0-100.0%) to ampicillin, amoxicillin/clavulanic acid and sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim, ceftriaxone and streptomycin in all the selected hospitals, but less resistance (0-7.8%) to Cefotaxime and Ceftazidime. All the antibiotic resistance isolates were multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) with MAR indices above 0.2; and more than 90.0% in all hospitals were multidrug resistance (MDR) isolates. The occurrence of ESBL producing isolates was highest in DASHL (7.8%), GHK and GHD (2.0%) but none of the isolates from GHA were ESBL producers.
Conclusion: Extended-spectrum third generation cephalosporins, cefotaxime and ceftazidime were very effective against the isolates, even though most of the isolates were multidrug resistant. The molecular diversity of the ESBL-producing isolates is being investigated.
Leveraging Artificial Intelligence and Strategic Management for Success in Inter/National Projects in US and Beyond
Authors: Thuraka Bharadwaj , Pasupuleti Vikram , Malisetty Saiteja , Ogirri Kenneth O.
Published: July 2024

The place of artificial intelligence (AI) and strategic management (SM) in the success of any projects cannot be overemphasized. This study critically explores the place of AI and SM in the attainment of success in national and international projects in the US and beyond, drawing evidence from previous studies. Relying on secondary data, drawn from the internet and subjected to a critical analytic exposition and thematic systematic review, the study shows that AI and SM play multifaceted functions that guarantee the success of projects. The paper concludes that once deployed judiciously, AI and SM have the potentials of fostering the success of different national and international projects. The implication of the findings is that AI and SM can be used in combination for more results, as in to attain significant successes in managing national and international projects as well as business and other activities/affairs. It recommends judicious adoption and application of the two in project management for the attainment of any desired results and successes in inter/national projects in the US and beyond.
Calibration and Validation of Semi-distributed Model of Monthly Stream Discharge Using SUFI-2 Algorithm for Shimsha Catchment, Karnataka, India
Authors: P Praveen. , Ayyanagowdar M. S. , Prakash S.S. , Polisgowdar B.S. , Babu B. Maheshwara , Yadahalli G.S. , M Rajashekhar,
Published: July 2024

The Shimsha Catchment employed the Semi-distributed SWAT model for runoff prediction, which considered geographical features, surface vegetation, and soil characteristics. The catchment was subdivided into six sub-watersheds based on geography, natural drainage patterns, and designated discharge points. In the Hydrological Response Unit (HRU) analysis, 136 HRUs were created in SWAT model by incorporating land use and soil maps and defining HRUs with specific threshold percentages. To calibrate and validate the model, simulated values were compared with observed data from stream gauge discharge records. The calibration process utilized the SUFI-2 algorithm integrated into the SWAT-CUP model. The results demonstrated the model's strong predictive capabilities across the entire catchment, achieving calibration values of 0.87, 0.92 and 0.78 for the Nash-Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE), coefficient of determination (R2) and index of agreement(d) respectively. Parameter selection and ranges were determined by considering the unique characteristics of the study area, recommendations from the model for new parameter ranges, and examination of a 95% probability plot. The analysis of uncertainty highlighted 14 sensitive parameters, with the curve number emerging as the most influential factor, followed by groundwater parameters. Capturing the dynamics of water flow, sediment transport and nutrient cycles to ensure reliable predictions to show the model reliability need to be assessed.
Submarine lava flow direction revealed by neutron diffraction analysis in mineral lattice orientation
Authors: Zucali M. , Fontana E. , Panseri M. , Tartarotti P. , Capelli S. , Ouladdiaf B.
Published: February 2014

The ocean crust is formed by the rising of magma from mid‐ocean ridges and voluminous (1–30 km3) flows of lava away from ridge axes. However, our understanding of the emplacement kinematics of submarine lava is often limited to plan view geometries of near‐axis lava. Drilled cores provide in situ access to the intact internal structure of submarine lavas. We used neutron diffraction to study off‐axis lava flows drilled into the uppermost crust of ODP/IODP‐Site 1256 (Cocos Plate). We provide quantitative insights into submarine lava microstructures and strong evidence for a secondary lava injection into the interior of a solidifying flow of lava along the NW‐SE direction parallel to the paleo‐ridge axis of the East Pacific Rise. The dynamics of lava inflow are controlled by crystal abundance and the temperature of the lava‐crystal mixture rather than by local seafloor topography. We provide a description of an in situ shear within submarine lavas revealed by composite shape and lattice preferred orientations, accounting for a dominant laminar nonuniform‐type flow.
Vertical ground displacement at Campi Flegrei (Italy) in the fifth century: Rapid subsidence driven by pore pressure drop
Authors: Todesco Micol , Costa Antonio , Comastri Alberto , Colleoni Florence , Spada Giorgio , Quareni Francesca
Published: February 2014

Campi Flegrei (Italy) caldera has experienced episodes of ground deformation throughout its geological history, alternating between uplift and subsidence phases. Although uplift periods are typically more alarming, here we focus on subsidence, looking for its driving mechanisms and its role in the caldera evolution. Historical and archaeological records constrain ground deformation over the last two millennia. Here we revise such records and combine them with published radiometric dating and with the simulation of sea level change. The resulting analysis highlights for the first time a rapid subsidence during the fifth century. We show that rate and magnitude of this subsidence are consistent with the compaction of porous material caused by a pressure drop of ~ 1 MPa within the hydrothermal system. We interpret this event as the decompression of the hydrothermal system following an unrecognized episode of unrest, during Roman times. These findings redefine the pattern of ground deformation and bear important implications for volcanic hazard assessment.
Localization of circularly polarized dispersive Alfvén wave and effect on solar wind turbulence
Authors: Sharma Swati , Sharma R. P. , Gaur Nidhi
Published: February 2014

Solar wind turbulence at large inertial scales is well known for decades and believed to consist of Alfvén cascade. At scales of the order of proton inertial length, Alfvén cascade excites kinetic Alfvén wave, fast wave, or whistler wave that carries wave energy to smaller scales. Despite supporting the kinetic Alfvén wave cascade to elucidate the steeper spectra at the kinetic scales, we here present another model, the localization of longitudinally propagating dispersive Alfvén wave (DAW) with finite frequency correction to illustrate the same. Inclusion of this finite frequency in Alfvén wave makes them dispersive. In this approach, the dynamical equation of the wave in the presence of ponderomotive nonlinearity of the pump is obtained and then solved numerically to study the evolution of the turbulence. The ponderomotive force accounts for the coupling between the DAW and ion acoustic wave. Taking the adiabatic case, we have first studied the localization of DAW. To have the physical insight of the dynamical system, the equation is also studied semi‐analytically.
Frontogenesis and frontolysis of the subpolar front in the surface mixed layer of the Japan Sea
Authors: Zhao Ning , Manda Atsuyoshi , Han Zhen
Published: February 2014

The frontogenesis and frontolysis processes of the subpolar front (SPF) in the surface mixed layer of the Japan Sea are investigated using state‐of‐the‐art oceanic reanalysis data. The SPF experiences a 9 month weakening period from January to September, which shifts to a strengthening period in October. Our analysis shows that horizontal advection consistently contributes to the intensification of the SPF. After September, as the weakening effect of surface heat flux diminishes, horizontal advection becomes the dominant factor that contributes to changes in the SPF strength. Thus, the SPF enters a 3 month strengthening period. The geostrophic component of horizontal advection provides the most important contribution to strengthening the SPF, acting to intensify the SPF year‐round. Ekman advection also promotes SPF strengthening with a smaller but still important contribution. During the weakening period, SPF strength is largely controlled by heat flux. The heat flux, especially the shortwave radiation component, is the primary cause of the surface front disappearance in the summer.
Decadal variations of Pacific North Equatorial Current bifurcation from multiple ocean products
Authors: Zhai Fangguo , Wang Qingye , Wang Fujun , Hu Dunxin
Published: February 2014

In this study, we examine the decadal variations of the Pacific North Equatorial Current (NEC) bifurcation latitude (NBL) averaged over upper 100 m and underlying dynamics over the past six decades using 11 ocean products, including seven kinds of ocean reanalyzes based on ocean data assimilation systems, two kinds of numerical simulations without assimilating observations and two kinds of objective analyzes based on in situ observations only. During the period of 1954–2007, the multiproduct mean of decadal NBL anomalies shows maxima around 1965/1966, 1980/1981, 1995/1996, and 2003/2004, and minima around 1958, 1971/1972, 1986/1987, and 2000/2001, respectively. The NBL decadal variations are related to the first Empirical Orthogonal Function mode of decadal anomalies of sea surface height (SSH) in the northwestern tropical Pacific Ocean, which shows spatially coherent variation over the whole region and explains most of the total variance. Further regression and composite analyzes indicate that northerly/southerly NBL corresponds to negative/positive SSH anomalies and cyclonic/anticyclonic gyre anomalies in the northwestern tropical Pacific Ocean. These decadal circulation variations and thus the decadal NBL variations are governed mostly by the first two vertical modes and attribute the most to the first baroclinic mode. The NBL decadal variation is highly positively correlated with the tropical Pacific decadal variability (TPDV) around the zero time lag. With a lead of about half the decadal cycle the NBL displays closer but negative relationship to TPDV in four ocean products, possibly manifesting the dynamical role of the circulation in the northwestern tropical Pacific in the phase‐shifting of TPDV.
Hysteresis of glaciations in the Permo‐Carboniferous
Authors: Zhuang Kelin , North Gerald R. , Giardino John R.
Published: February 2014

The hysteresis of glaciations in the Permo‐Carboniferous is simulated in an iterative energy balance model with 84 scenarios of varied orbital elements, CO2 levels, and glacial modes. Gondwana attains its glacial maximum when CO2 is roughly the same or slightly higher than the preindustrial level. Once glaciated it maintains a large ice covered area under higher CO2 levels up to 4 to 6 times of the preindustrial value followed by an abrupt disappearance of ice beyond this threshold. The solutions arrived at by iteration indicate the existence of parameter thresholds of glaciations and deglaciations which lead to the alternating extremes of glacial coverage. Dominated by the large seasonal cycle over land, the concentrated geography of the Permo‐Carboniferous is more sensitive to the CO2‐forced climate than sparsely distributed land. Our conceptual modeling agrees well with the recent geological evidence of intercalations of three glaciations and two lacunae of deglaciations in this geologic time.
Assimilating aerosol observations with a “hybrid” variational‐ensemble data assimilation system
Authors: Schwartz Craig S. , Liu Zhiquan , Lin Hui‐Chuan , Cetola Jeffrey D.
Published: February 2014

Total 550 nm aerosol optical depth, surface fine particulate matter (PM2.5), and meteorological observations were assimilated with continuously cycling three‐dimensional variational (3DVAR), ensemble square root Kalman filter (EnSRF), and hybrid variational‐ensemble data assimilation systems. The hybrid system's background error covariances (BECs) were a blend of those in 3DVAR and produced by the cycling EnSRF system, and the 3DVAR, EnSRF, and hybrid systems differed almost exclusively by their BECs. New analyses were produced every 6 h between 0000 UTC 1 June and 1800 UTC 14 July 2010 over a domain encompassing the contiguous United States (CONUS) and adjacent areas. Additionally, a control experiment that only assimilated meteorological observations was performed. Each 1800 UTC analysis initialized a 48 h Weather Research and Forecasting with Chemistry model forecast. These forecasts were evaluated with a focus on air quality prediction. The ensemble aerosol spread was generally insufficient, particularly over the western CONUS. However, despite the suboptimal ensemble spread, the hybrid system performed quite well and usually produced the best aerosol forecasts. Additionally, both the 3DVAR‐ and EnSRF‐initialized forecasts typically outperformed the control. These results are encouraging and suggest the resiliency of the hybrid method. Improved aerosol ensembles should translate into even better future hybrid forecasts.
IASI observations of sulfur dioxide (SO2) in the boundary layer of Norilsk
Authors: Bauduin Sophie , Clarisse Lieven , Clerbaux Cathy , Hurtmans Daniel , Coheur Pierre‐François
Published: February 2014

Norilsk is one of the most polluted cities in the world, largely because of intense mining of heavy metals. Here we present satellite observations of SO2 in a large area surrounding the city, derived from 4 years of measurements from the Infrared Atmospheric Sounding Interferometer (IASI), the nadir thermal infrared (TIR) sounder onboard the MetOp platforms. TIR instruments are conventionally considered to be inadequate for monitoring near‐surface composition, because their sensitivity to the lowest part of the atmosphere is limited by the thermal contrast between the ground and the air above it. We demonstrate that IASI is capable of measuring SO2 (here as a partial column from 0 to 2 km) in Norilsk, thanks to the large temperature inversions and the low humidity in wintertime. We discuss the influence of thermal contrast and of surface humidity on the SO2 retrieved columns and estimate the retrieval errors. Using a simple box model, we derive the yearly total emissions of SO2 from Norilsk and compare them to previously reported values. More generally, we present in this work the first large‐scale demonstration of the capability of space‐based TIR sounders to measure near‐surface SO2 anthropogenic pollution.
Self‐consistent generation of single‐plume state for Enceladus using non‐Newtonian rheology
Authors: Rozel A. , Besserer J. , Golabek G. J. , Kaplan M. , Tackley P. J.
Published: February 2014

The thermal dichotomy of Enceladus suggests an asymmetrical structure in its global heat transfer. So far, most of the models proposed that obtained such a distribution have prescribed an a priori asymmetry, i.e., some anomaly in or below the south polar ice shell. We present here the first set of numerical models of convection that yield a stable single‐plume state for Enceladus without prescribed mechanical asymmetry. Using the convection code StagYY in a 2‐D spherical annulus geometry, we show that a non‐Newtonian ice rheology is sufficient to create a localized, single hot plume surrounded by a conductive ice mantle. We obtain a self‐sustained state in which a region of small angular extent has a sufficiently low viscosity to allow subcritical to weak convection to occur due to the stress‐dependent part of the rheological law. We find that the single‐plume state is very unlikely to remain stable if the rheology is Newtonian, confirming what has been found by previous studies. In a second set of numerical simulations, we also investigate the first‐order effect of tidal heating on the stability of the single‐plume state. Tidal heating reinforces the stability of the single‐plume state if it is generated in the plume itself. Lastly, we show that the likelihood of a stable single‐plume state does not depend on the thickness of the ice shell.
Modeling the moist‐convective atmosphere with a Quasi‐3‐D Multiscale Modeling Framework (Q3D MMF)
Authors: Jung Joon‐Hee , Arakawa Akio
Published: February 2014

The Q3D MMF (Quasi‐Three‐Dimensional Multiscale Modeling Framework) is a new generation of MMF that replaces the conventional subgrid‐scale parameterizations in general circulation models (GCMs) with explicit simulations of cloud and associated processes by cloud‐resolving models (CRMs). In the Q3D MMF, 3‐D CRMs are applied to the channel domains that extend over GCM grid cells. To avoid “double counting” of the large‐scale effects, only the eddy effects simulated by the CRMs are implemented into the GCM as far as the transports are concerned, while the total effects are implemented for diabatic processes. The CRMs recognize the large‐scale horizontal inhomogeneity through the lateral boundary conditions obtained from the GCM through interpolation. To maintain compatibility between the GCM and CRMs, the averages of CRM variables over the GCM grid spacing are relaxed to the corresponding GCM variables with the advective time scale. To evaluate the Q3D MMF, a transition from a wave to strong vortices is simulated in an idealized horizontal domain. Comparison with a fully 3‐D benchmark simulation shows that the Q3D MMF successfully predicts the evolution of the vortices. It also captures important statistics such as the domain‐averaged surface precipitation rate, turbulent fluxes and subgrid‐scale (co)variances. From tests with 3‐D and 2‐D CRMs, respectively, it is concluded that the ability to recognize large‐scale inhomogeneities is primarily responsible for the successful performance of the Q3D MMF. It is also demonstrated that the use of two perpendicular sets of CRMs has positive impacts on the simulation.
The value of satellite‐derived snow cover images for calibrating a hydrological model in snow‐dominated catchments in Central Asia
Authors: Duethmann Doris , Peters Juliane , Blume Theresa , Vorogushyn Sergiy , Güntner Andreas
Published: February 2014

Including satellite‐derived snow cover data for hydrologic model calibration can be a good way to improve model internal consistency. This study applied a multiobjective genetic algorithm to characterize the trade‐off curve between model performance in terms of discharge and snow cover area (SCA). Using a Monte Carlo‐based approach, we further investigated the additional information content of an increasing number of SCA scenes used in the calibration period. The study was performed in six snowmelt‐dominated headwater catchments of the Karadarya Basin in Kyrgyzstan, Central Asia, using the hydrological model WASA and snow cover data from four melt seasons retrieved from AVHRR (Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer). We generally found only small trade‐offs between good simulations with respect to discharge and SCA, but good model performance with respect to discharge did not exclude low performance in terms of SCA. On average, the snow cover error in the validation period could be reduced by very few images in the calibration period. Increasing the number of images resulted in only small further improvements. However, using only a small number of images involves the risk that these particular images cause the selection of parameter sets which are not representative for the catchment. It is therefore advisable to use a larger number of images. In this study, it was necessary to include at least 10–16 images.
A stochastic model of streamflow for urbanized basins
Authors: Mejía Alfonso , Daly Edoardo , Rossel Florian , Jovanovic Tijana , Gironás Jorge
Published: February 2014

Given the critical role of the streamflow regime for instream, riparian, and floodplain ecosystem sustainability, modeling the long‐term effect of urbanization on streamflow is important to predict possible changes in stream ecosystems. Since flow duration curves are largely used to characterize the streamflow regime and define indices for stream ecosystem health, we present two stochastic models, with different levels of complexity, that link the key physical features of urbanized basins with rainfall variability to determine the resulting flow duration curves. The two models are tested against 11 basins with various degrees of urban development, characterized by the percentage of impervious areas in the basin. Results show that the more complex model needs to be used to reproduce accurately the entire flow duration curve. The analysis performed suggests that the transformation of green (i.e., water used in evapotranspiration) to blue (i.e., streamflow) water in urbanized basins is an important long‐term source of ecohydrological alteration. The modeling scheme also provides useful links between rainfall variability, urbanization levels, and some streamflow indices of high and low flows.
The Role of Memory Distrust in Cases of Internalised False Confession
Authors: Gudjonsson Gisli Hannes , Sigurdsson Jon Fridrik , Sigurdardottir Arndis Soffia , Steinthorsson Haraldur , Sigurdardottir Valgerdur Maria
Published: February 2014

This paper reviews the literature on the role of ‘memory distrust’ in cases of internalised false confessions and provides a heuristic model for understanding the antecedents and mechanism involved. It also provides an in‐depth analysis of two real life cases of ‘suspected’ murders involving six convicted persons, five of whom showed evidence of profound memory distrust regarding the alleged offences. The key factors were coercive interviewing, lengthy solitary confinement, contamination, psychological vulnerabilities (both state and trait) and lack of independent support during questioning. The vulnerabilities in such cases typically involve a combination of cognitive (memory flaws, lack of confidence in memory and failure to invoke distinctiveness heuristic), personality (suggestibility and compliance), health problems and motivational (desire and willingness to assist the police) factors. The two cases suggest that the process of internalised false confessions may be conceptualised in terms of five sequential steps: a trigger, plausibility, acceptance, reconstruction and resolution. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Maintaining Cytocompatibility of Biopolymers Through a Graphene Layer for Electrical Stimulation of Nerve Cells
Authors: Sherrell Peter C. , Thompson Brianna C. , Wassei Jonathan K. , Gelmi Amy A. , Higgins Michael J. , Kaner Richard B. , Wallace Gordon G.
Published: February 2014

Here, the utility of large‐area graphene as a flexible, biocompatible electrode to stimulate cell growth is demonstrated. Chemical vapor deposition allows the production of highly crystalline, single, double, or few‐layered graphene on copper substrates. The subsequent transfer to a biopolymer support, such as polylactic acid (PLA) or polylactic‐co‐glycolic acid (PLGA) copolymers, provides a unique electrode structure retaining the flexibility and surface properties of the underlying materials with a conductive graphene layer sufficient to enable electrical communication with excitable cells. The growth and compatibility of PC‐12 cells on these graphene‐biopolymer (GPB) electrodes is influenced more by the underlying polymer than the presence of graphene, demonstrating that the characteristics influencing biocompatibility have been retained after graphene modification. Differentiation of these cells into neural phenotypes is enhanced using electrical stimulation through the graphene conductive layer, confirming that the conductivity of graphene is sufficient to electrically communicate with cells grown on the surface. The process described herein demonstrates that non‐conducting, flexible biopolymer surfaces can be easily coated with graphene without changing the biocompatibility of the materials. This could be used to create electrodes from non‐conducting materials with optimized cell compatibility with graphene providing electrical properties suitable for stimulation of cells without greatly changing the surface properties.
Direct Growth of Nanocrystalline Graphene/Graphite Transparent Electrodes on Si/SiO2 for Metal‐Free Schottky Junction Photodetectors
Authors: Zhang Zengxing , Guo Yunxian , Wang Xiaojuan , Li Dong , Wang Fengli , Xie Sishen
Published: February 2014

Conventional methods to produce graphene/silicon Schottky junctions inevitably involve graphene transfer and metal deposition, which leads to the techniques being complicated, high‐cost, and environmentally unfriendly. It is possible to directly grow hybrid nanocrystalline graphene/graphite transparent electrodes from photoresist on quartz without any catalyst. Due to the source material being photoresist, nanographene/graphite patterns can easily be made on Si/SiO2 structures to form nanographene/silicon Schottky junctions via commercial photolithography and silicon techniques. The obtained Schottky junctions exhibit excellent properties with respect to photodetection, with photovoltage responsivity of 300 V W‐1 at a light power of 0.2 μW and photovoltage response time of less than 0.5 s. The devices also exhibit an excellent reliability with the photovoltage deviating less than 1% when cycled over 200 times.
Morphological and Electrochemical Cycling Effects in MnO2 Nanostructures by 3D Electron Tomography
Authors: Chen Wei , Rakhi Raghavan B. , Wang Qingxiao , Hedhili Mohamed N. , Alshareef Husam N.
Published: February 2014

In this study, MnO2 nanostructures with well‐controlled morphology and crystal phase are successfully prepared by chemical synthesis, and characterized by three‐dimensional electron tomography for use as supercapacitor electrode materials. The growth process of the various MnO2 nanostructures is revealed in detail, and correlated to their electrochemical performance as supercapacitor materials. The specific capacitance of MnO2 electrodes is found to be strongly correlated with the inner morphology and crystal phase of the MnO2 nanostructures. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that the increased capacity with electrochemical cycling of the materials is due to the formation of defective regions embedded in the MnO2 nanostructures; these regions form during electrochemical cycling of the electrodes, resulting in increased porosity, surface area, and consequently, increased electrochemical capacity.
Synthesis and Characterization of Gelatin‐Based Magnetic Hydrogels
Authors: Helminger Maria , Wu Baohu , Kollmann Tina , Benke Dominik , Schwahn Dietmar , Pipich Vitaliy , Faivre Damien , Zahn Dirk , Cölfen Helmut
Published: February 2014

A simple preparation of thermoreversible gelatin‐based ferrogels in water provides a constant structure defined by the crosslinking degree for gelatin contents between 6 and 18 wt%. The possibility of varying magnetite nanoparticle concentration between 20 and 70 wt% is also reported. Simulation studies hint at the suitability of collagen to bind iron and hydroxide ions, suggesting that collagen acts as a nucleation seed to iron hydroxide aggregation, and thus the intergrowth of collagen and magnetite nanoparticles already at the precursor stage. The detailed structure of the individual ferrogel components is characterized by small‐angle neutron scattering (SANS) using contrast matching. The magnetite structure characterization is supplemented by small‐angle X‐ray scattering and microscopy only visualizing magnetite. SANS shows an unchanged gelatin structure of average mesh size larger than the nanoparticles with respect to gel concentration while the magnetite nanoparticles size of around 10 nm seems to be limited by the gel mesh size. Swelling measurements underline that magnetite acts as additional crosslinker and therefore varying the magnetic and mechanical properties of the ferrogels. Overall, the simple and variable synthesis protocol, the cheap and easy accessibility of the components as well as the biocompatibility of the gelatin‐based materials suggest them for a number of applications including actuators.
Reduction in Wound Bioburden using a Silver‐Loaded Dissolvable Microfilm Construct
Authors: Herron Maggie , Agarwal Ankit , Kierski Patricia R. , Calderon Diego F. , Teixeira Leandro B. C. , Schurr Michael J. , Murphy Christopher J. , Czuprynski Charles J. , McAnulty Jonathan F. , Abbott Nicholas L.
Published: February 2014

Silver is a widely used antimicrobial agent, yet, when impregnated in macroscopic dressings, it stains wounds, can lead to tissue toxicity, and can inhibit healing. Recently, polymeric nanofilms containing silver nanoparticles were reported to exhibit antimicrobial activity at loadings and release rates of silver that are 100× lower than conventional dressings. Here, fabrication of composite microfilm constructs that provide a facile way to transfer the silver‐loaded polymeric nanofilms onto wounds in vivo is reported. The construct is fabricated from a silver nanoparticle‐loaded polymeric nanofilm that is laminated with a micrometer‐thick‐soluble film of polyvinylalcohol (PVA). When placed on a moist wound, the PVA dissolves, leaving the silver‐loaded nanofilm immobilized on the wound‐bed. In vitro, the immobilized nanofilms release <1 μg cm−2 d‐1 of silver over 30 d from skin dermis and they kill 5 log10 CFUs of Staphylococcus aureus in 24 h. In mice, wounds inoculated with 105 CFU S. aureus presented up to 3 log10 less bacterial burden when treated with silver/nanofilms for 3 d, as compared to unmodified wounds. In uncontaminated wounds, silver/nanofilms allow normal and complete wound closure by re‐epithelialization. Dissolvable microfilm constructs may overcome key limitations associated with current uses of silver in wound healing.