bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Formation of Rapidly Rotating Black Holes in High-mass X-Ray Binaries
Authors: Batta Aldo , Ramirez-Ruiz Enrico , Fryer Chris
Published: September 2017

High-mass X-ray binaries (HMXRBs), such as Cygnus X-1, host some of the most rapidly spinning black holes (BHs) known to date, reaching spin parameters

. However, there are several effects that can severely limit the maximum BH spin parameter that could be obtained from direct collapse, such as tidal synchronization, magnetic core-envelope coupling, and mass loss. Here, we propose an alternative scenario where the BH is produced by a failed supernova (SN) explosion that is unable to unbind the stellar progenitor. A large amount of fallback material ensues, whose interaction with the secondary naturally increases its overall angular momentum content, and therefore the spin of the BH when accreted. Through SPH hydrodynamic simulations, we studied the unsuccessful explosion of an

pre-SN star in a close binary with a

companion with an orbital period of ≈1.2 days, finding that it is possible to obtain a BH with a high spin parameter

even when the expected spin parameter from direct collapse is

. This scenario also naturally explains the atmospheric metal pollution observed in HMXRB stellar companions.
Myositis-associated Interstitial Lung Disease: Predictors of Failure of Conventional Treatment and Response to Tacrolimus in a US Cohort
Authors: Sharma Niharika , Putman Michael S. , Vij Rekha , Strek Mary E. , Dua Anisha
Published: September 2017

Objective.

Patients with myositis-associated interstitial lung disease (MA-ILD) are often refractory to conventional treatment, and predicting their response to therapy is challenging. Recent case reports and small series suggest that tacrolimus may be useful in refractory cases.

Methods.

A retrospective cohort study of patients with MA-ILD comparing clinical characteristics between those who responded to or failed conventional treatment. In those who failed conventional treatment and received adjunctive tacrolimus, response to tacrolimus was measured by the improvement in myositis, ILD, and change in the dose of glucocorticoids.

Results.

Thirty-one of 54 patients (57%) responded to conventional treatment based on the predefined variables of improvement in myositis and/or ILD. Patients with polymyositis (PM)-ILD were more likely to respond to conventional treatment than those with dermatomyositis (DM)-ILD (67% vs 35%, p = 0.013). Twenty-three patients failed conventional treatment, 18 of whom subsequently received adjunctive tacrolimus. Ninety-four percent had improvements in ILD and 72% showed improvement in both myositis and ILD. The mean doses of prednisone decreased from baseline by 65% at 3–6 months (p = 0.002) and 81% at 1 year (p < 0.001).

Conclusion.

Patients with PM-ILD were more likely to respond to conventional treatment than patients with DM-ILD, but clinical characteristics and serology did not otherwise predict response to therapy. A majority of patients with MA-ILD refractory to conventional therapy improved while receiving tacrolimus and were able to decrease their dose of both glucocorticoids and other disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs.
Caracterización y evaluación de la templabilidad de una fundición gris empleada en la fabricación de camisas de cilindro para motores diésel
Authors: Castellanos-Leal Edgar L. , Coy Ana E. , González Jaime A. , Vesga Rueda Olga P. , Miranda David A.
Published: September 2017

El aumento de las propiedades mecánicas (dureza superficial) de las camisas de cilindro es uno de los objetivos de las empresas de fundición especializadas, en miras de aumentar la competitividad de sus productos en el mercado local y extranjero. El objetivo de este estudio se centró en la caracterización de la fundición gris utilizada en la producción de las camisas y en la determinación de los parámetros metalúrgicos en el diseño del tratamiento térmico de temple convencional. Lo anterior, se realizó mediante la evaluación de la templabilidad del material por el método de Grossman y el ensayo Jominy, la selección de la temperatura de austenización y la severidad del medio de enfriamiento para un adecuado endurecimiento del material. Los resultados revelaron que el excelente valor de dureza obtenido luego del tratamiento es atribuido a la adecuada templabilidad de la fundición y a la severidad de temple seleccionada.
Sea pen (Pennatulacea) aggregations on the northern Spanish shelf: distribution and faunal assemblages
Authors: Ruiz-Pico Susana , Serrano Alberto , Punzón Antonio , Altuna Álvaro , Fernández-Zapico Olaya , Velasco Francisco
Published: September 2017

The sea pens Funiculina quadrangularis, Pennatula aculeata, Pennatula phosphorea, Pteroeides spinosum and Veretillum cynomorium are known to be characteristic species of the habitat ‘pennatulacean communities on circalittoral and upper bathyal soft bottoms’, described recently on the northern Atlantic Spanish shelf under the terms of the EU directives. Distribution, abundance and environmental data collected from 1995 to 2010 in the Northern Spanish Shelf Groundfish Surveys in the Cantabrian Sea and off Galicia (SPNGFS) were analysed. Although low densities of sea pens were commonly found over the years, some aggregations were shown. Multivariate analysis separated the aggregations of F. quadrangularis and of Pennatula spp. found on circalittoral soft bottoms. In addition, evidence of aggregations of F. quadrangularis on upper bathyal sites was also found. Depth and longitude, which were closely related to organic matter and sediment particle size, were key factors in determining the distribution and abundance of these aggregations. However, very little information on distribution and density of the species P. spinosum and V. cynomorium was obtained. Details of community composition of F. quadrangularis and Pennatula spp. were studied and compared with those of the OSPAR habitat “sea pen and burrowing megafauna communities” in other areas. The results improve our knowledge concerning sea pen communities in the southern Bay of Biscay and contribute to a global assessment of the status of these communities in the northeast Atlantic.
Essential habitat for sardine juveniles in Iberian waters
Authors: Rodríguez-Climent Sílvia , Angélico Maria Manuel , Marques Vítor , Oliveira Paulo , Wise Laura , Silva Alexandra
Published: September 2017

In a period when the Iberian sardine stock abundance is at its historical minimum, knowledge of the sardine juvenile’s distribution is crucial for the development of fishery management strategies. Generalized additive models were used to relate juvenile sardine presence with geographical variables and spawning grounds (egg abundance) and to model juvenile abundance with the concurrent environmental conditions. Three core areas of juvenile distribution were identified: the Northern Portuguese shelf (centred off Aveiro), the coastal region in the vicinity of the Tagus estuary, and the eastern Gulf of Cadiz. Spatial differences in the relationship between juvenile presence and egg abundances suggest that essential juvenile habitat might partially differ from the prevailing spawning grounds. Models also depicted significant relationships between juvenile abundance, temperature and geographical variables in combination with salinity in the west and with zooplankton in the south. Results indicate that the sardine juvenile distribution along the Iberian Peninsula waters are an outcome of a combination of dynamic processes occurring early in life, such as egg and larva retention, reduced mortality and favourable feeding grounds for both larvae and juveniles.
Seasonal variation in mortality of red mullet (Mullus barbatus) escaping from codends of three different sizes in the Aegean Sea
Authors: Ozan Düzbastılar F. , Breen Michael , Aydın Celalettin , Özbilgin Hüseyin , Özgül Aytaç , Ulaş Ali , Metin Gülnur , Gül Benal , Lök Altan
Published: September 2017

This study was performed off the southern coast of Yassıca Island in the Izmir Bay on the Turkish coast of the Aegean Sea to investigate the mortality of red mullet (Mullus barbatus, Mullidae) escaping through 40-mm square-mesh and 44- and 50-mm diamond-mesh codends attached to a conventional demersal trawl net. In total, 48 replicate experimental hauls were performed in the summer and winter of 2011 and 2012. Mean escape mortality for all hauls in winter (33.2%±6.51) was significantly higher (p
Determinants of Nurses’ Use of Physical Restraints in Surgical Intensive Care Unit Patients
Authors: Dolan Jeanne , Dolan Looby Sara E.
Published: September 2017

Background

Physical restraints are used in intensive care units, particularly among patients at risk for self-terminating necessary treatment interventions, including endotracheal tubes and invasive catheters. Assessments conducted by intensive care unit nurses often influence the collaborative decision to initiate and discontinue restraints in critical care patients. However, little is known about factors that influence the critical thought processes of intensive care unit nurses in determining use of restraints.

Objectives

To describe nurses’ determinants of initiation and discontinuation of restraints in surgical intensive care unit patients.

Methods

Semistructured interviews were conducted to identify and describe determinants of initiation and discontinuation of physical restraints. Demographic and employment data were collected via questionnaire. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed by using conventional content analysis to establish categories and identify themes.

Results

A total of 13 nurses (mean age 43 [SD, 12] years, 92% female, mean of 18 [SD, 12] years of practice as a registered nurse, 69% bachelor of science in nursing) participated in the study. Content analysis revealed 3 general categories and 8 themes that indicated the thoughtful reflection processes nurses in a surgical intensive care unit use to determine use of restraints.

Conclusions

Top priorities were ensuring patient safety and comfort. Nurses synthesized factors including practice experience, patient-specific behaviors and risk, and patients’ need for devices in determining use of restraints.
Post–Intensive Care Syndrome in Family Decision Makers of Long-term Acute Care Hospital Patients
Authors: Petrinec Amy
Published: September 2017

Background

Family members of critically ill patients experience indications of post–intensive care syndrome, including anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress disorder. Despite increased use of long-term acute care hospitals for critically ill patients, little is known about the impact of long-term hospitalization on patients’ family members.

Objectives

To examine indications of post–intensive care syndrome, coping strategies, and health-related quality of life among family decision makers during and after patients’ long-term hospitalization.

Methods

A single-center, prospective, longitudinal descriptive study was undertaken of family decision makers of adult patients admitted to long-term acute care hospitals. Indications of post–intensive care syndrome and coping strategies were measured on the day of hospital admission and 30 and 60 days later. Health-related quality of life was measured by using the Short Form-36, version 2, at admission and 60 days later.

Results

The sample consisted of 30 family decision makers. On admission, 27% reported moderate to severe anxiety, and 20% reported moderate to severe depression. Among the decision makers, 10% met criteria for a provisional diagnosis of posttraumatic stress disorder. At admission, the mean physical summary score for quality of life was 47.8 (SD, 9.91) and the mean mental summary score was 48.00 (SD, 10.28). No significant changes occurred during the study period. Problem-focused coping was the most frequently used coping strategy at all time points.

Conclusion

Family decision makers of patients in long-term acute care hospitals have a significant prevalence of indications of post–intensive care syndrome.
The SPOC manual chapter 1 summary
Authors: Laguitton D
Published: September 2017

This first chapter of the SPOC Manual is intended as a general introduction to all the other chapters in which the mineral process evaluation and optimization methodology is presented. This chapter also provides a brief description of available software for
mainframe and microcomputers and provides information on its distribution by the Technology Information Division, CANMET.
The SPOC manual Chapter 2.1 SAMBA computer program
Authors: Smith H W , Burroughs D , Lauguitton D
Published: September 2017

SAMBA is a conversational implementation of the method of flowsheet sensitivity analysis described in Chapter 2 of the SPOC manual (1), Section 5. For a given flowsheet and sampling data set the user can compare the flow rates obtained for different sampling
designs and select a solution of least sensitivity to experimental errors.
The SPOC manual Chapter 3.2 MATBAL computer program
Authors: Laguitton D , Burrough D , Kitusta S
Published: September 2017

MATBAL is a FORTRAN program to calculate data adjustments required in order to satisfy mass conservation equations valid for a mineral process flowsheet. The calculation is done by minimizing the sum of squares of assay and flow rate adjustments weighted by their
reciprocal variance. The available data and the mass conservation equations are coded in a suitable form and the derivatives of a Lagrangian function are internally calculated and cancelled to obtain the adjustments and flow rates which are a solution to the problem. The precision of calculated flow
rates can also be obtained. Writing a program to perform such calculations is only part of the overall task if the method is to be transferred to the end user in the mineral industry. Program documentation has traditionally been the weak point which jeopardizes and often cancels all efforts made to
develop a program. This user's manual is an attempt to avoid such a dead-end by fully explaining both the method and the program so that the program can be installed in different computers or translated if FORTRAN is not supported by a given machine. The documentation follows the standards of the
A.S.C.E.
The SPOC manual Chapter 4 modelling and simulation
Authors: Finch J A , Laplante A , Leung J , Laguitton D , Sirois L
L
Published: September 2017

This chapter introduces the concepts of modelling and simulation for mineral processes in practical terms. The general terminology applying to this discipline is defined and several case studies of industrial applications are briefly reviewed. The sequence of
steps leading to a circuit simulator is described using the case of simple models for ball mills and hydrocyclones with an introduction to experimental design. Finally, the appendices present several useful techniques of statistical data analysis and regressions. They also present a complete data
set obtained during the analysis of the Gibraltar grinding circuit
The SPOC manual Chapter 5.1 unit models (part b)
Authors: Plitt L R , Flintoff B C , Laguitton D , Smith R , Korzuk B , Snider B , Pilgrim R
Published: September 2017

Specific mathematical models of classification and coal processing equipment are described. Constraints and limitations are discussed for the following models: rotary breaker, a general coal crusher model, four screen models (Karra, Whiten, Valliant, and a sieve
bend model), a hydrocyclone model, a gravity classifier model, and a specific gravity separator model. For each FORTRAN program, a small driver and test data are provided.
The SPOC manual Chapter 5.2 unit models (part c)
Authors: Laguitton D , Flament F , Wilson J , Pilgrim R , Cameron W , Feader W
Published: September 2017

This chapter of the SPOC Manuel describes seven process simulators: RMILL, BMILL, MOG ENS, BALDRM, VACFIL, MIXER2 or MIXER3, and EXTRAP. RM ILL simulates a rod mill according to the Lynch-Callcott model using breakage and selection functions. BM ILL is the
kinetic nnodel of ball milling which simulates the grinding of particles by quantifying the size distribution of the ground product, the rate of breakage, and the residence time of particles in the mill. MOGENS simulates the operation of a linear, multi-deck probability screening machine known as
the Mogensen Sizer. BALDRM is the mathematical simulator of an industrial balling drum circuit. VACFIL simulates the operation of a rotary vacuum filter during steadystate operations based on its operational parameters. MIXER2 or MIXER3 simulates the mixing of two or three flows. EXTRAP simulates
the extrapolation of a size distribution in the fine size range
The SPOC manual Chapter 6 plant simulators
Authors: Flament F , Laguitton D , TerHeijden E , Chassat P , Pilgrim R
Published: September 2017

This chapter describes five process flowsheet simulators: SPLITX, CRSHEX, GRNDEX, HCONEX, and FLOTEX. SPLITX is a general simulator based on a split-coefficient nnodel of two or three product separators and mixers. It features automatic flowsheet decomposition
and tear-stream selection as well as a convergence acceleration method. CRSHEX is an interactive simulator for a crushing plant developed for an IBM-PC microcomputer. GRNDEX simulates grinding plants involving rod mill, ball mills, hydrocyclones, mixers, and extrapolation modules. HCONEX and FLOTEX
simulate, respectively, multicycloning and flotation plants involving recycling and water addition
Thesaurus of mineral processing and extractive metallurgy terms
Authors:   Technology Information Division
Published: September 2017

This thesaurus provides the language control for CANMET's database of mineral processing/extractive metallurgy information - MINPROC. The thesaurus lists approximately 1700 terms, in English and in French, which centre on those activities which occur once an ore
has been mined. Primarily the thesaurus covers terms used to describe the processing of ores, minerals and their concentrates as well as the treatment and utilization of waste materials from mining and processing operations. The majority of terms relate to the various unit operations of mineral
treatment such as comminution, beneficiation, smelting, etc. Mineralogical and analytical terms are included to the extent that they relate to processing of the various ores and minerals. Mining terms, as a rule, are excluded.
Design of a new macroseismic monitoring system
Authors: Makuch A
Published: September 2017

The recent incidence of rockburst activity in Sudbury area mines, both "Pillar Bursts" and "Fault Slip", has indicated the need for more intense analysis of the seismic waveforms from rockbursts. To facilitate this, a high speed data acquisition system capable of
capturing complete seismic waveforms from the geophone signals in real time is required. The seismic waveforms could then be displayed on the computer screen for analysis. As part of the CANADA/ONTARIO/INDUSTRY rockburst research project, it was proposed to design a "macroseismic monitoring system"
for installation at both Falconbridge's Strathcona Mine and INCO's Creigton Mine in Sudbury. The first of these systems is to be installed at Strathcona Mine. A comprehensive investigation of the existing state of the art in seismic detection/waveform recording systems was done prior to development
of the system. The Strathcona Mine seismic system will use five triaxial accelerometers, installed both on surface and underground. Geophone signals will be transmitted to a central microcomputer system where A/D conversion and event detection will be done. The digitized event files from all 15
sensors will be stored on disk on an IBM-PC/AT computer. Using modem communications, the seismic event files will be uploaded to a STRIDE minicomputer at the CANMET Mining Research Laboratory in Elliot Lake, Ontario. Analysis of the seismic waveforms, including peak particle velocity, first motion,
spectral distribution, source location and seismic energy will be done at the Elliot Lake Laboratory. Also,the seismic waveforms can be analyzed on the on-site IBM-PC/AT computer.
Régulation de procédé canadien de préparation du charbon: orientations en matière de recherche-développement
Authors: Salama A I A
Published: September 2017

An industry viewpoint and feedback on CANMET programs (current and planned) in coal preparation process control are presented. Results of an industry-wide survey and commentary on recent and/or continuing operational problems in process control are also detailed.
Responses are summarized and analyzed to identify industry requirements and to consolidate directions for process-control R&D at the Coal Research Laboratory (CRL). Industry requirements, as well as the medium- and long-range plans of CRL in process control, can be fulfilled by implementing
a step-by-step strategy, the pace of which is dependent upon the availability of resources. R&D priorities are guided by the results of the survey. The availability and/or development of on-line ash and/or sulphur monitors can be addressed by the preparation of a state-of-the-art report and
by the establishment of a joint program between CANMET, Atomic Energy Canada, and industry to evaluate and develop these monitors.
Rockbursts in Ontario mines during 1985
Authors: Hedley D G F
Published: September 2017

During 1985, 127 rockbursts occurred in ten mines in Ontario, which was a 20%. increase from the previous year. The number of large rockbursts, of magnitude 3.0 and greater, however, 4creased from ten to three. These rockbursts were recorded on the Eastern
Canada Seismic Network operated by Energy, Mines and Resources Canada, and, in most cases, on the microseismic systems installed in the mines.
Instrument de mesure et d'enregistrement automatique des contraintes d'exploitation à la mine Niobec
Authors: Herget G , Kapeller F
Published: September 2017

Le besoin de mesurer l'effet des changements qui se produisent dans les contraintes d'exploitation minière en roche dure se fait ressentir depuis de nombreuses années. Les Laboratoires de recherche minière de CANMET (LRM) ont mis au point un nouvel
instrument qui mesure avec précision les déformations radiales dues au forage. L'appareil de mesure des contraintes développé par les LRM, d'une grande sensibilité et précision, est basé sur le principe de rendement à long terme des capteurs à cordes
vibrantes. Il est utilisé pour mesurer les déformations des trous de sondage relativement importants, comme par exemple, ceux dont le diamètre va de 76 à 153 mm (2,98 à 6 po). L'unité de CANMET consiste en un anneau dynamométrique relativement gros, auquel est
fixé un fil vibrant; le fil vibre à une fréquence de 600 à 1 800 Hz. L'anneau est mis en place à l'aide d'un piston hydraulique et mis en contact avec la roche encaissante par l'intermédiaire de cales guidées, usinées avec grande précision. La
résolution du système est de l'ordre de 4 x 10-4 mm/Hz. La collecte des données est effectuée au moyen d'une unité d'affichage portative ou d'une unité d'enregistrement en continu. Le système a été mis a l'essai en collaboration avec le Centre de
recherches minérales, à la mine Niobec, au Québec. L'essai a été mené en vue de mesurer les effets du percement de galeries sur les contraintes dans le sol adjacent. En premier lieu, on a percé des trous d'un diamètre de 153 mm (6 po) afin de déterminer
les contraintes in situ. L'appareil de mesure des contraintes des LRM a ensuite été mis en place dans les trous. La réaction du pilier C-203-13 a démontré de façon non équivoque, l'effet de l'abattage et du sautage sur la distribution des contraintes dans le
sol.
Étude approfondie des paramètres de la source des séismes à la mine Quirke d'Elliot Lake, en Ontario
Authors: Chen S
Published: September 2017

L'auteur a réalisé une analyse approfondie des paramètres de la source de 37 épisodes sismiques provoqués par l'exploitation minière à la mine Quirke d'Elliot Lake, en Ontario. Son but était d'étudier l'hypothèse
de l'autosimilarité dans la loi d'échelle appliquée au spectre sismique de microséismes causés par l'activité minière. L'énergie élevée des ondes sismiques P, le rapport Ep/Es étant de 5 % à 30 %, et le fait qu'environ 80 % des
épisodes sismiques sont caractérisés par un rapport Es/Ep < 10 %, semblent confirmer l'affirmation selon laquelle la plupart des épisodes relatifs aux données obtenues dans la mine correspondent très probablement à des mécanismes focaux à
couple non double. Ils sont également caractérisés par la libération de faibles contraintes, en particulier de faibles contraintes apparentes au-dessous de la limite de 0,2 &Y, et par une faible énergie sismique totale. Pour le même moment sismique, les valeurs
énergétiques totales varient selon des contraintes apparentes se situant entre 10 lea et 200 ICPa, ce qui concorde avec les données obtenues dans la mine Heinrich Robert en Allemagne. L'auteur a également constaté que le calcul énergétique de Gutenberg-Richter
concorde très bien avec l'ensemble des données relatives aux magnitudes pour la mine Quirke (0,7 à 2,3 Mn), et pour la mine Heinrich Robert (1,2 à 2,3 M1). En présence de la même énergie sismique totale, les contraintes apparentes sont limitées par un moment
sismique de 80 GN.m et 800 GN.m. La diminution de contrainte observée est fonction du moment sismique, ce qui laisse supposer une invalidité de la loi d'échelle relativement aux épisodes sismiques provoqués par l'activité minière. Une analyse de la vitesse et de
l'accélération de pointe des particules fournit une preuve de l'atténuation sismique dans l'ensemble de la zone fracturée située au-dessus de la région des coups de toit à l'intérieur de la mine.
Dynamic and equilibrium surface tension of aqueous polyacrylamide solutions
Authors: Xu Y , Angle C W , Hamza H A
Published: September 2017

Surface tension of eight different polyacrylamide samples was measured using du Nouy ring, Wilhelmy plate, and maximum bubble pressure methods over a wide concentration range. Experimental results were found to agree with available literature data for diluted
solutions of similar polymers. The aqueous polyacrylamide solutions were found to be surface active. The surface tension of the polymer solutions showed a similar behavior to solutions of surfactant. It was noted that the surface tension of polymer solutions decreased linearly with increasing
logarithm of concentration; at high concentrations, surface tension remained constant or nearly constant. A possible "CMC-type" behaviour was observed for these polymer solutions and the suggested "CMC" values were calculated based on surface tension and electroconductivity measurements. The
experimental results showed that the carboxylic or cationic substituted polyacryamides are more surface active than the unsubstituted polyacrylamides.
The cost of electrocoagulation
Authors: Domini J C , Kan J , Szynkarczuk J , Hassan T A , Kar K
L
Published: September 2017

The electrocoagulation of kaolinite and bentonite suspensions was studied in a pilot electrocoagulation system at the Western Research Centre of CANMET to assess the cost and efficiency of the process. Factors affecting cost such as, the formation of passivation
layers on electrode plates and the recirculation and concentration of sodium chloride were examined. Colorimetry was used to analyze aluminum content in the suspension. The results were used to calculate - the cost due to the consumption of electrode material, i.e., aluminum, during the process.
Total cost was assumed to comprise the energy cost and the cost of aluminum electrode material. comparison was based on the settling properties of the treated product: turbidity, settling rate, and cake height. In most cases, aluminum efficiency averaged around 200% and aluminum material cost
accounted for 80% of the total cost. Experimental results also showed that although higher concentrations of sodium chloride could only slightly increase aluminum efficiency and the electrode efficiency, the higher concentrations resulted in much greater total cost. This was caused by the
greater current generated due to the increased conductivity of the suspension, which in turn, dissolved a larger amount of aluminum. The recirculation loop installed on the cell system increased the flow rate by 3 to 10 times, enhancing the mass transport between the electrodes and resulting in both
lower cost and better settling properties. During the two-month experiment the electrodes were coated by clayish layers which gradually became thicker, while the performance of the cell system deteriorated. The term "electrode efficiency" was defined to evaluate the change in efficiency of the -
electrodes due to the formation of passivation layers. The electrode efficiency was found to be as high as 94% for virgin electrode plates and to decline to as low as 10% for the saine system operated two months later. During this time interval the current waveform became greatly distorted
and less and less current was driven by the same voltage applied.
Comparison of ozone profiles and influences from the tertiary ozone maximum in the night-to-day ratio above Switzerland
Authors: Moreira Lorena , Hocke Klemens , Kämpfer Niklaus
Published: September 2017

Abstract. Stratospheric and middle-mesospheric ozone profiles above Bern, Switzerland (46.95° N, 7.44° E; 577 m) have been continually measured by the GROMOS (GROund-based Millimeter-wave Ozone Spectrometer) microwave radiometer since 1994. GROMOS is part of the Network for the Detection of Atmospheric Composition Change (NDACC). A new version of the ozone profile retrievals has been developed with the aim of improving the altitude range of retrieval profiles. GROMOS profiles from this new retrieval version have been compared to coincident ozone profiles obtained by the satellite limb sounder Aura Microwave Limb Sounder (MLS). The study covers the stratosphere and middle mesosphere from 50 to 0.05 hPa (from 21 to 70 km) and extends over the period from July 2009 to November 2016, which results in more than 2800 coincident profiles available for the comparison. On average, GROMOS and MLS comparisons show agreement generally over 20 % in the lower stratosphere and within 2 % in the middle and upper stratosphere for both daytime and nighttime, whereas in the mesosphere the mean relative difference is below 40 % during the daytime and below 15 % during the nighttime. In addition, we have observed the annual variation in nighttime ozone in the middle mesosphere, at 0.05 hPa (70 km), characterized by the enhancement of ozone during wintertime for both ground-based and space-based measurements. This behaviour is related to the middle-mesospheric maximum in ozone (MMM).
Chemical characteristics of submicron particles at the central Tibet Plateau: influence of long-range transport
Authors: Xu Jianzhong , Zhang Qi , Shi Jinsen , Ge Xinlei , Xie Conghui , Wang Junfeng , Kang Shichang , Zhang Ruixiong , Wang Yuhang
Published: September 2017

Abstract. Recent studies have revealed a significant influx of air pollution from south Asia to Himalayas and Tibet Plateau (TP) during pre-monsoon period. In order to characterize the chemical composition, sources, and transport mechanism of polluted air mass in this pristine area, we performed a field study during June 2015 by deploying a suite of online instruments including an Aerodyne high-resolution time-of-flight aerosol mass spectrometer (HR-AMS) and a multi-angle absorption photometer (MAAP) at Nam Co Station (90°57' E, 30°46 ' N 4730 m a.s.l.) at the central of the TP. The measurements were made at a time when the transition from pre-monsoon to monsoon occurred. The average ambient mass concentration of submicron particulate matter (PM1) over the whole campaign period was 2.0 µg m−3, with organics accounting for 64 %, followed by sulfate (16 %), black carbon (9 %), ammonium (8 %), and nitrate (3 %). This mass loading and composition were comparable with most of AMS results in remote sites worldwide. Air pollution episodes were observed during the pre-monsoon period, while consistently low aerosol concentrations were observed during the monsoon period. However, the chemical composition of aerosol during the air pollution episodes in the pre-monsoon season was on a case-by-case basis, depending on the prevailing meteorological conditions and air mass transport routes. Most of the chemical species exhibited significant diurnal variations with higher values occurring during afternoon and lower values during early morning time whereas nitrate peaked during early morning in association with higher relative humidity and lower air temperature. Organic aerosol (OA) was more oxidized with an oxygen-to-carbon ratio (O / C) of 0.94 during the pre-monsoon period than during monsoon (average O / C of 0.48). The average O / C of OA was 0.88 over the entire campaign period. Positive matrix factorization of the high resolution mass spectra of OA identified two oxygenated organic aerosol (OOA) factors: a less oxidized OOA (LO-OOA) and a more oxidized OOA (MO-OOA). The MO-OOA dominated during the pre-monsoon period, while LO-OOA dominated during the monsoon. The sensitivity of air pollution transport with synoptic process was also evaluated with a 3-D chemical transport model.
Target categorization of aerosol and clouds by continuous multiwavelength-polarization lidar measurements
Authors: Baars Holger , Seifert Patric , Engelmann Ronny , Wandinger Ulla
Published: September 2017

Abstract. Absolute calibrated signals at 532 and 1064 nm and the depolarization ratio from a multiwavelength lidar are used to categorize primary aerosol but also clouds in high temporal and spatial resolution. Automatically derived particle backscatter coefficient profiles in low temporal resolution (30 min) are applied to calibrate the lidar signals. From these calibrated lidar signals, new atmospheric parameters in temporally high resolution (quasi-particle-backscatter coefficients) are derived. By using thresholds obtained from multiyear, multisite EARLINET (European Aerosol Research Lidar Network) measurements, four aerosol classes (small; large, spherical; large, non-spherical; mixed, partly non-spherical) and several cloud classes (liquid, ice) are defined. Thus, particles are classified by their physical features (shape and size) instead of by source. The methodology is applied to 2 months of continuous observations (24 h a day, 7 days a week) with the multiwavelength-Raman-polarization lidar PollyXT during the High-Definition Clouds and Precipitation for advancing Climate Prediction (HD(CP)2) Observational Prototype Experiment (HOPE) in spring 2013. Cloudnet equipment was operated continuously directly next to the lidar and is used for comparison. By discussing three 24 h case studies, it is shown that the aerosol discrimination is very feasible and informative and gives a good complement to the Cloudnet target categorization. Performing the categorization for the 2-month data set of the entire HOPE campaign, almost 1 million pixel (5 min  ×  30 m) could be analysed with the newly developed tool. We find that the majority of the aerosol trapped in the planetary boundary layer (PBL) was composed of small particles as expected for a heavily populated and industrialized area. Large, spherical aerosol was observed mostly at the top of the PBL and close to the identified cloud bases, indicating the importance of hygroscopic growth of the particles at high relative humidity. Interestingly, it is found that on several days non-spherical particles were dispersed from the ground into the atmosphere.
Estimation of aerosol complex refractive indices for both fine and coarse modes simultaneously based on AERONET remote sensing products
Authors: Zhang Ying , Li Zhengqiang , Zhang Yuhuan , Li Donghui , Qie Lili , Che Huizheng , Xu Hua
Published: September 2017

Abstract. Climate change assessment, especially model evaluation, requires a better understanding of complex refractive indices (CRIs) of atmospheric aerosols – separately for both fine and coarse modes. However, the widely used aerosol CRI obtained by the global Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET) corresponds to total-column aerosol particles without separation for fine and coarse modes. This paper establishes a method to separate CRIs of fine and coarse particles based on AERONET volume particle size distribution (VPSD), aerosol optical depth (AOD) and absorbing AOD (AAOD). The method consists of two steps. First a multimodal log-normal distribution that best approximates the AERONET VPSD is found. Then the fine and coarse mode CRIs are found by iterative fitting of AERONET AODs to Mie calculations. The numerical experiment shows good performance for typical water-soluble, biomass burning and dust aerosol types, and the estimated uncertainties on the retrieved sub-mode CRIs are about 0.11 (real part) and 78 % (imaginary part). The 1-year measurements at the AERONET Beijing site are processed, and we obtain CRIs of 1.48–0.010i (imaginary part at 440 nm is 0.012) for fine mode particles and 1.49–0.004i (imaginary part at 440 nm is 0.007) for coarse mode particles, for the period of 2014–2015. Our results also suggest that both fine and coarse aerosol mode CRIs have distinct seasonal characteristics; in particular, CRIs of fine particles in winter season are significantly higher than summer due to possible anthropogenic influences.
Trauma and the Construction of Suffering in Irish Historical Child Sexual Abuse Prosecutions
Authors: Ring Sinead
Published: September 2017

Adopting the special issue’s broad definition of criminal law reform, this article explores some of the ways the Irish criminal process is grappling with the demands for justice of adults who report childhood sexual abuse. In particular, it shows how the cultural notion of trauma is bound up with the construction of victims’ suffering. In historical child sexual abuse prosecutions, trauma is shown to be an effect of the abuse on the victim/survivor; a site of mediation of the relationship between the state and victims; and a site of mediation of the relationship between the state and its past. The article first explores these insights in relation to the law’s approach to questions of alleged procedural unfairness to defendants flowing from the passage of time. Trauma is exposed as both legitimating some forms of suffering, and disqualifying others. The article then employs the trope of trauma to expose the problems with current approaches to cross-examination of vulnerable victims and recent reforms of the rules on disclosure of victims’ counselling records. Finally, the article explores the possibilities of trauma discourse in thinking anew about how to address the suffering of victims of historical child sexual abuse.
Special Edition: Limits and Prospects of Criminal Law Reform – Past, Present, Future
Authors: Anthony Thalia , Crofts Penny
Published: September 2017

This special issue traces multifaceted readings of criminal law reform in the context of developments in Australia, North America and Europe. It addresses a range of criminal law legislative regimes, frameworks and issues confronting criminal law reform including as they relate to family violence, organisational liability for child sexual abuse, drug-driving and Indigenous under-representation on juries. In doing so, the articles variously assess the impacts of past criminal law reforms, current processes of reform, areas in need of future reform and the limitations of reform. It poses a number of challenges: Who does law reform serve? What principles should guide the work of criminal justice reform? What is the role and responsibility of universities in law reform? Who are the natural allies of academics in agitating for reform? Is reform of criminal law enough for progressive social change? Do public inquiries and law reform assist with progressive change or do they have the potential to undermine the struggle for more humane and equitable social responses?
On the Evidential Status of Presupposition and Assertion
Authors: Masia Viviana
Published: September 2017

This work tackles the evidential behavior of presuppositions and assertions by assessing their socio-interactional function in communication. It is argued that by asserting and presupposing contents in an utterance, speakers encode a personal experience and a factual type of evidentiality, respectively, the former entailing a stronger involvement of the speaker as committed source of some information. By discussing how evidential meanings can also be pragmatically-inferred, the present paper proposes to recast the presupposition-assertion distinction as a further level of evidentiality marking.
Privatisation and Performance of Electricity Distribution Companies in Nigeria
Authors: Adedeji Adebayo Olumide
Published: September 2017

Privatisation of public enterprises is a complex phenomenon as the process is affected by both endogenous and exogenous factors. Advocates of privatisation of public enterprises in Developing countries tend to have a linear perspective that it will result in efficiency and improved performance of these firms. However, several studies have shown that this is not always the outcome. This paper examined the privatisation and performance of Electricity Distribution Companies in Nigeria and concluded that the outcome was determined more by the form and nature of the government than by the process of privatisation. Therefore, there is a need for further research to identify factors that could enhance or inhibit the success of the privatisation process in Developing countries.
Do School Advisors Contribute to the Teachers’ Professional Development? A Greek Case Study
Authors: Vozaitis George N. , Ifanti Amalia A.
Published: September 2017

This empirical study investigates the contribution of Secondary Education School Advisors to the professional development of teachers at the same level. For this purpose, 34 Secondary Education School Advisors of the Regional Directorate of Primary and Secondary Education of Western Greece were interviewed. Semi-structured interviews were employed aiming to explore the School Advisors’ contribution to the professional development of teachers. Data analysis revealed that, although the School Advisors attached great importance to their role in the professional development of teachers, they quoted the various problems that have been linked to their role over time and indicated the requirements for the progress and further development of the institution in the future.
Long-term results of pars plana vitrectomy as an anti-inflammatory therapy of pediatric intermediate uveitis resistant to standard medical treatment
Authors: Darsová Denisa , Pochop Pavel , Štěpánková Jana , Dotřelová Dagmar
Published: September 2017

Purpose:

To evaluate the efficacy of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) as an anti-inflammatory therapy in pediatric recurrent intermediate uveitis.

Methods:

A retrospective study evaluated the long-term results of PPV indicated for intermediate uveitis with a mean observation period of 10.3 years (range 7-15.6 years) in 6 children (mean age 8 years, range 6-12 years). Pars plana vitrectomy was performed on 10 eyes in the standard manner and was initiated by vitreous sampling for laboratory examination. Data recorded were perioperative or postoperative vitrectomy complications, anatomic and functional results of PPV, and preoperative and postoperative best-corrected Snellen visual acuity.

Results:

No perioperative or postoperative complications were observed. Bacteriologic, virologic, mycotic, and cytologic analysis of the vitreous was negative in all tested children. Five eyes were subsequently operated on for posterior subcapsular cataracts. An average preoperative visual acuity of 0.32 improved to an average postoperative visual acuity of 0.8.

Conclusions:

In the case of systemic immunosuppressive treatment failure in pediatric uveitis, particularly in eyes with cystoid macular edema, we recommend PPV relatively early.
Utility of Bruch membrane opening-based optic nerve head parameters in myopic subjects
Authors: Sastre-Ibañez Marina , Martinez-de-la-Casa Jose M. , Rebolleda Gema , Cifuentes-Canorea Pilar , Nieves-Moreno Maria , Morales-Fernandez Laura , Saenz-Frances Federico , Garcia-Feijoo Julian
Published: September 2017

Purpose:

To evaluate whether the new rim analysis software with spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) shows advantages over the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness in patients with moderate myopia.

Methods:

In this prospective cross-sectional study, we studied 65 healthy subjects, 37 with spherical refractive errors in the range of -3 to -6 D (moderate, G1) and 28 with less than -3 D (low/non-myopic, G0). All patients were examined with Heidelberg Spectralis SD-OCT, including Glaucoma Premium Module Edition (GPME) software. With GPME, we analyzed the neuroretinal rim (Bruch membrane opening-minimum rim width [BMO-MRW]) and RNFL.

Results:

The average age of subjects was 30.2 ± 9.3 years for G0 and 29.9 ± 7.1 years for G1 (p = 0.903). Mean sphere was −0.5 ± 0.3 D (-1.25 to 0 D) G0 and -3.9 ± 0.3 D (-6.00 to -3 D) G1 (p<0.001). The RNFL thickness comparison between G0 and G1 showed a significantly lower thickness in G1 (p = 0.018). The BMO-MRW measurements were similar in both groups (p = 0.331). With the BMO-MRW examination, the number of sectors classified as pathologic per subject in G1 were significantly lower compared to RNFL analysis (p = 0.023).

Conclusions:

Ring analysis based on BMO-MRW measurements shows a lower rate of false-positives compared to RNFL thickness when studying healthy moderate myopic eyes and it would be advisable to take this into consideration when analyzing these patients.
In Vitro Benchmark of Cytokine Removal by Dialyzers with Various Permeability Profiles
Authors: Hulko Michael , Speidel Rose , Gauss Julia , Storr Markus , Krause Bernd
Published: September 2017

Purpose

Removal of cytokines is relevant for dialysis patients as they are suspected to promote cardiovascular complications. The objective of this study was to benchmark membranes with different permeability profiles under standardized in vitro test conditions using miniaturized devices with respect to their ability to remove cytokines from human serum and to lower cell activating potential.

Methods

In vitro dialysis was used to dialyze cytokine enriched serum in 3 independent experiments per tested membrane. IL-6 in the serum and dialysate was measured at defined times by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. IL-8, IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α in dialysate were measured by immunoassay. Dialysate samples were subjected to cultured tubular epithelial cells or human fibroblasts to study cell activation via IL-6 generation. Dialysate samples were added to human whole blood with subsequent analysis of granulocyte and monocyte activation by detection of CD11b.

Results

IL-6 decreased in serum and increased in dialysate during in vitro dialysis. IL-8, IL-1β, and TNF-α were identified in dialysate. Dialysate added to cell cultures increased IL-6 concentration in culture medium or increased expression of CD11b. High cut-off membranes showed the strongest transfer of cytokines, albumin and total proteins from serum to dialysate and led to strongest cell activation. This effect was lower for medium cutoff membranes and lowest for conventional high-flux membranes.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated an in vitro test by which membranes were benchmarked with respect to cytokine and cell activation removal capacity. Cell activation levels could be influenced by the choice of membrane by altering cytokine concentration levels.