bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Time-series Analysis of Broadband Photometry of Neptune from K2
Authors: Rowe Jason F. , Gaulme Patrick , Lissauer Jack J. , Marley Mark S. , Simon Amy A. , Hammel Heidi B. , Silva Aguirre Víctor , Barclay Thomas , Benomar Othman , Boumier Patrick , Caldwell Douglas A. , Casewell Sarah L. , Chaplin William J. , Colón Knicole D. , Corsaro Enrico , Davies G. R. , Fortney Jonathan J. , Garcia Rafael A. , Gizis John E. , Haas Michael R. , Mosser Benoît , Schmider François-Xavier
Published: March 2017

We report here on our search for excess power in photometry of Neptune collected by the K2 mission that may be due to intrinsic global oscillations of the planet Neptune. To conduct this search, we developed new methods to correct for instrumental effects such as intrapixel variability and gain variations. We then extracted and analyzed the time-series photometry of Neptune from 49 days of nearly continuous broadband photometry of the planet. We find no evidence of global oscillations and place an upper limit of ∼5 ppm at 1000

for the detection of a coherent signal. With an observed cadence of 1 minute and a point-to-point scatter of less than 0.01%, the photometric signal is dominated by reflected light from the Sun, which is in turn modulated by atmospheric variability of Neptune at the 2% level. A change in flux is also observed due to the increasing distance between Neptune and the K2 spacecraft and the solar variability with convection-driven solar p modes present.
Reconnection-driven Magnetohydrodynamic Turbulence in a Simulated Coronal-hole Jet
Authors: Uritsky Vadim M. , Roberts Merrill A. , DeVore C. Richard , Karpen Judith T.
Published: March 2017

Extreme-ultraviolet and X-ray jets occur frequently in magnetically open coronal holes on the Sun, especially at high solar latitudes. Some of these jets are observed by white-light coronagraphs as they propagate through the outer corona toward the inner heliosphere, and it has been proposed that they give rise to microstreams and torsional Alfvén waves detected in situ in the solar wind. To predict and understand the signatures of coronal-hole jets, we have performed a detailed statistical analysis of such a jet simulated by an adaptively refined magnetohydrodynamics model. The results confirm the generation and persistence of three-dimensional, reconnection-driven magnetic turbulence in the simulation. We calculate the spatial correlations of magnetic fluctuations within the jet and find that they agree best with the Müller–Biskamp scaling model including intermittent current sheets of various sizes coupled via hydrodynamic turbulent cascade. The anisotropy of the magnetic fluctuations and the spatial orientation of the current sheets are consistent with an ensemble of nonlinear Alfvén waves. These properties also reflect the overall collimated jet structure imposed by the geometry of the reconnecting magnetic field. A comparison with Ulysses observations shows that turbulence in the jet wake is in quantitative agreement with that in the fast solar wind.
Vortex and Sink Flows in Eruptive Flares as a Model for Coronal Implosions
Authors: Zuccarello F. P. , Aulanier G. , Dudík J. , Démoulin P. , Schmieder B. , Gilchrist S. A.
Published: March 2017

Eruptive flares are sudden releases of magnetic energy that involve many phenomena, several of which can be explained by the standard 2D flare model and its realizations in 3D. We analyze a 3D magnetohydrodynamics simulation, in the framework of this model, that naturally explains the contraction of coronal loops in the proximity of the flare sites, as well as the inflow toward the region above the cusp-shaped loops. We find that two vorticity arcs located along the flanks of the erupting magnetic flux rope are generated as soon as the eruption begins. The magnetic arcades above the flux rope legs are then subjected to expansion, rotation, or contraction depending on which part of the vortex flow advects them. In addition to the vortices, an inward-directed magnetic pressure gradient exists in the current sheet below the magnetic flux rope. It results in the formation of a sink that is maintained by reconnection. We conclude that coronal loop apparent implosions observed during eruptive flares are the result of hydromagnetic effects related to the generation of vortex and sink flows when a flux rope moves in a magnetized environment.
KIC 8262223: A Post-mass Transfer Eclipsing Binary Consisting of a Delta Scuti Pulsator and a Helium White Dwarf Precursor
Authors: Guo Zhao , Gies Douglas R. , Matson Rachel A. , Hernández Antonio García , Han Zhanwen , Chen Xuefei
Published: March 2017

KIC 8262223 is an eclipsing binary with a short orbital period (P = 1.61 day). The Kepler light curves are of Algol-type and display deep and partial eclipses, ellipsoidal variations, and pulsations of δ Scuti type. We analyzed the Kepler photometric data, complemented by phase-resolved spectra from the R-C Spectrograph on the 4 meter Mayall telescope at the Kitt Peak National Observatory and determined the fundamental parameters of this system. The low-mass and oversized secondary (

,

) is the remnant of the donor star that transferred most of its mass to the gainer, and now the primary star. The current primary star is thus not a normal δ Scuti star but the result of mass accretion from a lower mass progenitor. We discuss the possible evolutionary history and demonstrate with the MESA evolution code that this system and several other systems discussed in prior literature can be understood as the result of non-conservative binary evolution for the formation of EL CVn-type binaries. The pulsations of the primary star can be explained as radial and non-radial pressure modes. The equilibrium models from single star evolutionary tracks can match the observed mass and radius (

,

) but the predicted unstable modes associated with these models differ somewhat from those observed. We discuss the need for better theoretical understanding of such post-mass transfer δ Scuti pulsators.
Management et culture du risque de crédit dans les banques tunisiennes
Authors: Maraghni Hichem , Ben Bouheni Faten , Bellalah Mondher , Hikkerova Lubica , Sahut Jean-Michel
Published: March 2017

L’objectif de cet article est d’examiner le management et la culture du risque dans les banques sous la pression réglementaire. La pression est reflétée dans l’effet simultané des variations du ratio de capital réglementaire et du niveau de la prise de risque de crédit. Le cas des pays émergents est illustré par un échantillon de banques tunisiennes durant la période de 1990 à 2012. Nos résultats montrent que les contraintes réglementaires sur l’exigence des fonds propres bancaires n’ont aucun impact sur le comportement de prise de risque de crédit, mais que cette pression institutionnelle est associée négativement au ratio de couverture des risques essentiellement pour la période 2001- 2012. Nous avons constaté aussi que le stock de réserves de capital (Capital Buffer) est significatif et lié négativement au niveau du ratio de capital de ces banques. En revanche, l’effet simultané entre la variation du niveau du capital et l’incitation à la prise de risque de crédit par ces banques, s’avère négatif et statistiquement significatif durant toute la période d’analyse. La culture du risque et le management montrent que ces banques modulent leurs ratios de capital en fonction de l’ampleur du risque d’insolvabilité des clients.
A CEACAM6-High Airway Neutrophil Phenotype and CEACAM6-High Epithelial Cells Are Features of Severe Asthma
Authors: Shikotra Aarti , Choy David F. , Siddiqui Salman , Arthur Greer , Nagarkar Deepti R. , Jia Guiquan , Wright Adam K. A. , Ohri Chandra M. , Doran Emma , Butler Claire A. , Hargadon Beverley , Abbas Alexander R. , Jackman Janet , Wu Lawren C. , Heaney Liam G. , Arron Joseph R. , Bradding Peter
Published: March 2017

Severe asthma represents a major unmet clinical need; understanding the pathophysiology is essential for the development of new therapies. Using microarray analysis, we previously found three immunological clusters in asthma: Th2-high, Th17-high, and Th2/17-low. Although new therapies are emerging for Th2-high disease, identifying molecular pathways in Th2-low disease remains an important goal. Further interrogation of our previously described microarray dataset revealed upregulation of gene expression for carcinoembryonic Ag cell adhesion molecule (CEACAM) family members in the bronchi of patients with severe asthma. Our aim was therefore to explore the distribution and cellular localization of CEACAM6 using immunohistochemistry on bronchial biopsy tissue obtained from patients with mild-to-severe asthma and healthy control subjects. Human bronchial epithelial cells were used to investigate cytokine and corticosteroid in vitro regulation of CEACAM6 gene expression. CEACAM6 protein expression in bronchial biopsies was increased in airway epithelial cells and lamina propria inflammatory cells in severe asthma compared with healthy control subjects. CEACAM6 in the lamina propria was localized to neutrophils predominantly. Neutrophil density in the bronchial mucosa was similar across health and the spectrum of asthma severity, but the percentage of neutrophils expressing CEACAM6 was significantly increased in severe asthma, suggesting the presence of an altered neutrophil phenotype. CEACAM6 gene expression in cultured epithelial cells was upregulated by wounding and neutrophil elastase. In summary, CEACAM6 expression is increased in severe asthma and primarily associated with airway epithelial cells and tissue neutrophils. CEACAM6 may contribute to the pathology of treatment-resistant asthma via neutrophil and airway epithelial cell–dependent pathways.
Cutting Edge: Targeting Epithelial ORMDL3 Increases, Rather than Reduces, Airway Responsiveness and Is Associated with Increased Sphingosine-1-Phosphate
Authors: Miller Marina , Tam Arvin B. , Mueller James L. , Rosenthal Peter , Beppu Andrew , Gordillo Ruth , McGeough Matthew D. , Vuong Christine , Doherty Taylor A. , Hoffman Hal M. , Niwa Maho , Broide David H.
Published: March 2017

In this study, we used cre-lox techniques to generate mice selectively deficient in ORMDL3 in airway epithelium (Ormdl3Δ2-3/Δ2-3/CC10) to simulate an inhaled therapy that effectively inhibited ORMDL3 expression in the airway. In contrast to the anticipated reduction in airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR), OVA allergen–challenged Ormdl3Δ2-3/Δ2-3/CC10 mice had a significant increase in AHR compared with wild-type mice. Levels of airway inflammation, mucus, fibrosis, and airway smooth muscle were no different in Ormdl3Δ2-3/Δ2-3/CC10 and wild-type mice. However, levels of sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) were significantly increased in Ormdl3Δ2-3/Δ2-3/CC10 mice as well as in airway epithelial cells in which ORMDL3 was inhibited with small interfering RNA. Incubation of S1P with airway smooth muscle cells significantly increased contractility. Overall, Ormdl3Δ2-3/Δ2-3/CC10 mice exhibit increased allergen-induced AHR independent of inflammation and associated with increased S1P generation. These studies raise concerns for inhaled therapies that selectively and effectively inhibit ORMDL3 in airway epithelium in asthma.
Laparoscopic heminephrectomy for benign and malignant diseases of the horseshoe kidney
Authors: Tuncel Altug , Erkan Anil , Sofikerim Mustafa , Arslan Murat , Kordan Yakup , Akin Yigit , Aslan Yilmaz
Published: March 2017

Objectives: In the current study, we present our pure laparoscopic heminephrectomy experience in 13 patients with horseshoe kidney (HK). Material and Methods: A total of 13 patients with HK underwent pure laparoscopic heminephrectomy (Transperitoneal= 7, Retroperitoneal = 6) due to benign and malign renal conditions (non-functional hydronephrotic and/or infected kidney = 12, kidney mass = 1). Results: The mean age of the patients was 45.8 years. The mean operating time was 140 minutes, and estimated blood loss was 131 ml. The mean hospital stay was 2.3 days. Division of istmus was performed with stapler in 5 patients, ultrasonic scalpel in 3, 15 mm Hem-o-lok clip in 3, 10 mm LigaSure vessel seal system in one and endoscopic suture by 0 polyglactin in one patient without bleeding. Twelve patients underwent pure laparoscopic heminephrectomy due to nonfunctional hydronephrotic and or infected kidney. One patient underwent transperitoneal laparoscopic right heminephrectomy due to kidney mass. According to modifies Clavien classification, Grade I complication (wound infection) occurred in one patient (7.7%) who underwent heminephrectomy due to non-functional kidney. Conclusions: Laparoscopic heminephrectomy seems to be technically feasible and safe for benign and malignant diseases in patients with HK.
Different patterns of pelvic ureteral endometriosis. What is the best treatment? Results of a retrospective analysis
Authors: Butticè Salvatore , Laganà Antonio Simone , Mucciardi Giuseppe , Marson Francesco , Tefik Tzevat , Netsch Christopher , Vitale Salvatore Giovanni , Sener Emre , Pappalardo Rosa , Magno Carlo
Published: March 2017

Objective. Endometriosis is an estrogendependent disease. The incidence of urinary tract endometriosis (UE) increased during the last few years and, nowadays, it ranges from 0.3 to 12% of all women affected by the disease. The ureter is the second most common site affected. The ureteral endometriosis is classified in extrinsic and intrinsic. The aim of this study is to individuate the best treatments for each subset of ureteral endometriosis. Materials and Methods. 32 patients diagnosed with surgically treated UE were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were divided into 3 subsets (intrinsic UE, extrinsic UE with and without obstruction). The patients with intrinsic UE (n = 10) were treated with laser endoureterotomy. The patients with extrinsic UE (n = 22) were divided in two subsets with (n = 16) and without (n = 6) hydronephrosis. All the patients underwent ureteral stenting, and resection and reimplantation was performed in the first group, and when the mass was > 2.5 cm (n = 3) Boari flap was performed. Laparoscopic ureterolysis (shaving) was performed in the second group. Results. In the extrinsic subset of UE, we obtained an high therapeutic success (84%). Conversely, in the intrinsic subset there was a recurrence rate of the disease in 6/10 of the patients (60%). Conclusions. Ureterolysis seems to be a good treatment in extrinsic UE without obstruction. Resection and reimplantation allows excellent results in the extrinsic UE with obstruction. In the intrinsic subset, the endoureterotomy approach is inadequate.
Are erectile functions affected by AB0 blood group?
Authors: Benli Erdal , Çırakoglu Abdullah , Ögreden Ercan , Demir Selamettin , Kaya Yasemin , Ibas Mustafa , Ayyıldız Ali , Yüce Ahmet
Published: March 2017

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate whether there is a relationship between erectile dysfunction (ED), thought to be a vascular disease, and AB0 blood group. Material and Method: The study included 350 people abiding by the study criteria who applied to our clinic from April 2012-April 2015. The patients were divided into two groups including those with ED (Group 1) and those without (Group 2). Age, blood group, IIEF-5 score and presence of additional diseases were recorded. Erectile functions were analyzed according to blood group. Results: There was no difference between the mean age of 111 patients with ED and that of 239 patients without ED included in the study (p = 0.284). There was no difference between patients in the two groups in terms of smoking, alcohol use, hypertension and diabetes (p > 0.05). Among patients in the ED group, the mean IIEF-5 score according to blood group was 19.8 ± 5.04 in the 0 blood group, 16.5 ± 5.2 in the A blood group, 17.2 ± 5.3 in the B blood group and 13.3 ± 3.02 in the AB blood group. The IIEF-5 scores of individuals in the 0 blood group were significantly high compared to individuals in other blood groups (p = 0.004). Logistic regression analysis found that compared to the 0 blood group, the erectile dysfunction risk was 3.9 times greater for the A blood group, 3.5 times greater for the B blood group and 4.7 times greater for the AB blood group (p = 0.001) (Table 3). Conclusion: The risk of erectile dysfunction was significantly increased for individuals in the A, B and AB blood groups compared to individuals in the 0 blood group.
Cognitive zonal fusion biopsy of the prostate: Original technique between target and saturation
Authors: Galosi Andrea B. , Maselli Guevar , Sbrollini Giulia , Donatelli Gaetano , Montesi Lorenzo , Tallè Matteo , Montironi Rodolfo
Published: March 2017

We describe our experience in prostate biopsy using a new standardized cognitive fusion techniques, that we call “cognitive zonal fusion biopsy”. This new technique is based on two operative options: the first based on target biopsies, the Cognitive Target Biopsy (CTB) if the same target was detected with transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) and multiparametric magnetic resonance (mpMRI); the second based on saturation biopsies, the Zonal Saturation Biopsy (ZSB) on anatomical zone/s containing the region of interest if the same target was not evident with TRUS and MRI. We evaluated results of our technique compared to standard biopsy in order to identify clinically relevant prostate cancer. Methods: This is a single-center prospective study conducted in 58 pts: 25 biopsy-naïve, 25 with previous negative biopsy and in 8 with cancer in active surveillance. Based on mpMRI and transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS), all patients were scheduled for standard 12-core TRUS-guided biopsy. If mpMRI was suggestive or positive (PI-RADS 3, 4 or 5): patients underwent additional targeted 2 to 6 cores using cognitive zonal fusion technique. Results: 31/58 (53.4%) patients had a cancer. Our technique detected 80.6% (25 of 31) with clinically significant prostate cancer, leading to detection of insignificant cancer in 20%. Using standard mapping in MR negative areas we found 5 clinically significant cancer and 4 not significant cancers. MRI cancer detection rate was 18/31 (58.1%), and 9/18 (50%) in high grade tumors. Therefore MRI missed 50% of high grade cancers. The mean number of cores taken with cognitive zonal fusion biopsy was 6.1 (2-17), in addition biopsy sampling was done outside the ROI areas. Overall 15.4 cores (12-22) were taken. Cancer amount in Zonal Biopsy was larger than 7.3 mm (1-54.5) in comparison with 5.2 mm (1-23.5) in standard mapping. Largest percentage of cancer involvement with cognitive zonal fusion technique was detected in 19.4% vs 15.9%. Conclusions: Cognitive Zonal Saturation Biopsies should be used to reduce operator variability of cognitive fusion biopsy in addition to standard biopsy. Cognitive zonal biopsy based on mpMRI findings identifies clinically relevant prostate in 80%, has larger cancer extension in fusion biopsies than in random biopsies, and reduce the number of cores if compared to saturation biopsy.
Rare presentation of a testicular angiofibroma treated with testis sparing surgery
Authors: Leone Luca , Fulvi Paola , Sbrollini Giulia , Filosa Alessandra , Caraceni Enrico , Marronaro Angelo , Galosi Andrea B.
Published: March 2017

Introduction: Testicular benign tumors are very rare (< 5%). Testicular Angiofibroma (AF) is one of those, however the gold standard of treatment and follow-up is still unclear. Case report: A 47 years-old man with only one functioning testis was referred to our clinic for a palpable right testicular mass and atrophic contralateral testis. Patient underwent testis-sparing surgery with inguinal approach and intraoperative frozen sections examination with diagnosis of AF. Final histology confirmed AF. Post-operative follow-up was uneventful. Clinical and ultrasonographic follow-up was negative after 8 months. Conclusion: We report a conservative surgery in a patient with AF of the solitary testis. AF is a benign para-testicular fibrous neoplasm that could be misinterpreted as malignant tumor and treated with orchiectomy. Testis-sparing surgery is recommended in this case with intraoperative pathological examination. The excision of the mass is enough but in front of a possible recurrence a long follow-up is advisable.
A singular case of polyorchidism
Authors: Di Cosmo Giacomo , Silvestri Tommaso , Bucci Stefano , Bertolotto Michele , Trombetta Carlo
Published: March 2017

We report a case of polyorchidism, a rare congenital anomaly, frequently discovered by chance. At current knowledge is still not defined which is the best clinical and therapeutic approach as well the best follow- up scheme due to the unclear malignant potential and rate of complications if a conservative approach is used. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) seems to be a good method to discriminate this mass from others pathological findings but there is still not enough evidence to standardize the procedure.
Experience of percutaneous access under ultrasound guidance in renal transplant patients with allograft lithiasis
Authors: Palazzo Silvano , Colamonico Ottavio , Forte Saverio , Matera Matteo , Lucarelli Giuseppe , Ditonno Pasquale , Battaglia Michele , Martino Pasquale
Published: March 2017

Objective: Urolithiasis of the transplanted kidney has an incidence of 0.2 to 1.7%, it increases the risk of infection in immunosuppressed patients and it can lead to ureteral obstruction that is often associated with deterioration of renal function. Urolithiasis of the transplanted kidney has different characteristics compared to the native kidney, due to the absence of innervation, which does not lead to colic pain. Percutaneous approach is an optimal choice in transplant patients. Material and methods: Here we report our experience in two cadaveric transplant patients with urolithiasis. The first case was a patient of 68 years with a 20 mm stone located in the transplanted kidney pelvis and another smaller in a lower calyx. The second case was a patient of 65 years with a 15 mm stone in the distal part of the transplanted ureter. In both cases the patients were asymptomatic, but they had a reduction in urine output associated with worsening of the transplanted kidney function. The diagnosis was performed in both cases with ultrasound study, showing a severe hydronephrosis and it was confirmed by computed tomography scan. In both cases, we performed a Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL). Access was made after targeting the stone, through a lower pole puncture under ultrasound guidance. The first case was treated with pneumatic and laser energy, breaking stones through a nephroscope. In the second case we performed a laser lithotripsy of the ureteral stone, using a flexible videoureteroscope. At the end of both procedures a Double-J stent and a 14 Fr Malecot nephrostomy were positioned, that were removed at 6 weeks and 10 days, respectively. Results: Both patients achieved a resolution of the worsening of renal function, recovering the spontaneous diuresis. The surgical procedure using ultrasound guidance was safe and allowed quick access to the renal pelvis. Both patients experienced no bleeding or infection during hospitalization. Conclusions: Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is an established safe and effective surgical treatment option for larger renal calculi in renal allografts. The ultrasound guided access to the transplanted kidney in percutaneous treatment of urolithiasis is useful and fast, minimizing patient exposure to ionizing radiation.
OVERLAP SHEAR TEST FOR SEALANT ADHESIVE BONDING OF AUTOMOTIVE GLASS ENCAPSULATING MATERIAL TO BODY OPENING
Authors:   Materials, Processes and Parts Council
Published: March 2017

This recommended practice defines a procedure for the construction of a lap shear specimen for the purpose of testing the bondability of an automotive sealant adhesive to the elastomeric material used in automotive encapsulating.

The present practice of encapsulating automotive glass is described as molding elastomeric material onto the outer edge of the glass using thermoplastic or thermosetting material that quickly sets in the mold. The glass is removed from the mold with cured elastomeric material bonded to the perimeter of thee glass. This encapsulated glass module can now be bonded with a sealant adhesive into the body opening of a vehicle.
RECOMMENDED PRACTICE FOR BAR-CODED VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER LABEL
Authors:   VIN - WMI Technical Committee
Published: March 2017

This recommended practice describes the basic content requirements, bar-code specifications, and functional test specifications of the vehicle identification number (VIN) label. On the vehicle, the VIN label is to be mounted in a readily accessible location for use of a bar-code scanning device.
PEEL ADHESION TEST FOR GLASS TO ELASTOMERIC MATERIAL FOR AUTOMOTIVE GLASS ENCAPSULATION
Authors:   Materials, Processes and Parts Council
Published: March 2017

This recommended practice defines a procedure for the construction and testing of a 180 deg peel specimen for the purpose of determining the bondability of glass to elastomeric material in automotive modular glass. This test method suggests that elastomeric material of less than 172 mpa modulus be used as the encapsulating material. The present practice of encapsulating automotive glass is described as molded-in-place elastomeric material onto the outer edge of the glass using thermoplastic or thermosetting material that quickly sets in the mold. The glass is removed from the mold with the cured elastomeric material bonded to the perimeter of the glass. This encapsulated glass module can now be bonded with a sealant adhesive into the body opening of a vehicle.
AUTOMOTIVE BRAKE DEFINITIONS AND NOMENCLATURE
Authors:   Brake Committee
Published: March 2017

This SAE Recommended Practice identifies and defines terms specifically related to brake systems.
Calibration and Validation of Immediate Post-Fire Satellite-Derived Data to Three Severity Metrics
Authors: Miller Jay D. , Quayle Brad
Published: March 2017

Since 2007, the USDA Forest Service’s Remote Sensing Applications Center (RSAC) has been producing fire severity data within the first 30 to 45 days after wildfire containment (i.e., initial assessments [IA]), for wildfires that occur on USDA Forest Service managed lands, to support post-fire management actions. Satellite image-derived map products are produced using calibrations of the relativized differenced normalized burn ratio (RdNBR) to the Composite Burn Index (CBI), percent change in tree basal area (BA), and percent change in canopy cover (CC). Calibrations for extended assessments (EA) based upon one-year post-fire images have previously been published. Given that RdNBR is sensitive to ash cover, which declines with time since fire, RdNBR values that represent total mortality can be different immediately post fire compared with one year post fire. Therefore, new calibrations are required for IAs. In this manuscript, we describe how we modified the EA calibrations to be used for IAs using an adjustment factor to account for changes in ash cover computed through regression of IA and EA RdNBR values. We evaluate whether the accuracy of IA and EA maps are significantly different using ground measurements of live and dead trees, and CBI taken one year post fire in 11 fires in the Sierra Nevada and northwestern California. We compare differences between error matrices using Z-tests of Kappa statistics and differences between mean plot values in mapped categories using Generalized Linear Models (GLM). We also investigate whether map accuracy is dependent upon plot distance from boundaries delineating mapped categories. The IAs and EAs produced similarly accurate broad-scale estimates of tree mortality. Between IAs and EAs of each severity metric, the Kappa statistics of error matrices were not significantly different (P > 0.674) nor were mean plot values within mapped categories (P > 0.077). Plots <30 m (one Landsat pixel) distance from mapped polygon boundaries were less accurate than plots ≥30 m inside mapped polygons (P < 0.001). As land managers concentrate most post-fire management actions where tree mortality is high, it is desirable for map accuracy of severely burned areas to be high. Plots that were ≥30 m inside polygons depicting ≥75 % or ≥90 % BA mortality were correctly classified (producer’s accuracy) >92.3 % of the time, regardless of IA or EA.
Variability in Fire Prescriptions to Promote Wildlife Foods in the Longleaf Pine Ecosystem
Authors: Lashley Marcus A. , Chitwood M. Colter , Harper Craig A. , DePerno Christopher S. , Moorman Christopher E.
Published: March 2017

Prescribed fire is commonly used to restore and maintain the longleaf pine (Pinus palustris Mill.) ecosystem (LLPE). A key function of the LLPE is the provisioning of food for wildlife. Despite the plethora of literature evaluating the effects of fire season and fire-return interval on plant community dynamics, little attention has been given to the response of wildlife foods to fire season or fire-return interval. We measured the availability of key wildlife foods (fleshy fruit [i.e., seed containing a nutritious pericarp] and understory plant biomass) in upland pine forest following dormant-season (December–February) and growing-season (April–June) fires in a chronosequential design. Also, we quantified the relative contributions of the upland hardwood and bottomland hardwood forest types, which often are intentionally suppressed in the LLPE. In 2011 and 2012, we measured understory leafy biomass, biomass of forages selected by whitetailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus Zimm.), and soft mast production chronosequentially in relation to years-since-fire, fire season, and vegetation type in the LLPE at Fort Bragg Military Installation, North Carolina, USA. Understory leafy biomass increased in upland pine and hardwood forests as years-since-fire increased until two years post fire. Selected forages decreased in upland pine forest and increased in upland hardwood forest as time-since-fire increased. In upland pine forests burned during the growing season, 94% of the fruit was detected two years after fire, 6% one year after fire, and 0% the same year as fire. In June, fruit density was greatest in bottomland hardwood forest; in July, fruit density was greatest in dormant-season burned upland pine forest; in August, fruit density was greatest in upland hardwood forest; and in September, fruit density was greatest in upland hardwood and bottomland hardwood forest. Overall summer fruit density (i.e., the sum of fruit density detected each month) was greatest in upland hardwood forest. Understory leafy biomass and deer-selected forages were stable in bottomland hardwood forest because they were not burned, thereby providing a relatively high and stable availability from year to year. Our data demonstrate the importance of diversity in fire season and frequency, and diversity in vegetation types to promote key wildlife foods in the LLPE.
Japanese Reflections on World War II and the American Occupation
Authors: Porter Edgar , Porter Ran Ying
Published: March 2017

This book presents an unforgettable up-close account of the effects of World War II and the subsequent American occupation on Oita prefecture, through firsthand accounts from more than forty Japanese men and women who lived there. The interviewees include students, housewives, nurses, midwives, teachers, journalists, soldiers, sailors, Kamikaze pilots, and munitions factory workers. Their stories range from early, spirited support for the war through the devastating losses of friends and family members to air raids and into periods of hunger and fear of the American occupiers. The personal accounts are buttressed by archival materials; the result is an unprecedented picture of the war as experienced in a single region of Japan.
NO2 pollution over India observed from space – the impact of rapid economic growth, and a recent decline
Authors: Hilboll Andreas , Richter Andreas , Burrows John P.
Published: March 2017

Abstract. The Indian economy has grown significantly during the past decades. Satellite-based remote sensing enables atmospheric pollution to be observed globally, in remote regions, and in regions where the infrastructure for air quality monitoring is limited. Here, we investigate the temporal evolution of tropospheric nitrogen dioxide (NO2) since the early 2000s, and correlate NO2 abundances with indicators of economic development, notably gross state domestic product and electricity generation capacity, for all 35 Indian states and union territories. From 2003–2012, NO2 pollution and economic growth are strongly correlated, leading to annual increases of up to 4.4 %. This increase is strongest in states in East India having heavy industry. In 2012, the amount of tropospheric NO2 reached a maximum; since then, tropospheric NO2 pollution has stabilized or is even declining. While the Indian economy continues to grow, this decline in observed NO2 values may be a result of a slow-down in Indian economic growth, combined with the implementation of cleaner technology. Additionally, we identify regional pollution sources such as individual steel smelters and the cement industry, which are severely degrading air quality. In Tamil Nadu, economic growth has not led to increasing NO2 columns, which we attribute to the investment in the development of renewable energy sources during the 2000s.
Impact of uncertainties in inorganic chemical rate constants on
tropospheric composition and ozone radiative forcing
Authors: Newsome Ben , Evans Mat
Published: March 2017

Abstract. Chemical rate constants determine the composition of the atmosphere and how this composition has changed over time. They are central to our understanding of climate change and air quality degradation. Atmospheric chemistry models, whether online or offline, box, regional or global use these rate constants. Expert panels synthesise laboratory measurements, making recommendations for the rate constants that should be used. This results in very similar or identical rate constants being used by all models. The inherent uncertainties in these recommendations are, in general, therefore ignored. We explore the impact of these uncertainties on the composition of the troposphere using the GEOS-Chem chemistry transport model. Based on the JPL and IUPAC evaluations we assess 50 mainly inorganic rate constants and 10 photolysis rates, through simulations where we increase the rate of the reactions to the 1σ upper value recommended by the expert panels. We assess the impact on 4 standard metrics: annual mean tropospheric ozone burden, surface ozone and tropospheric OH concentrations, and tropospheric methane lifetime. Uncertainty in the rate constants for NO2 + OH    M →  HNO3, OH + CH4 → CH3O2 + H2O and O3 + NO → NO2 + O2 are the three largest source of uncertainty in these metrics. We investigate two methods of assessing these uncertainties, addition in quadrature and a Monte Carlo approach, and conclude they give similar outcomes. Combining the uncertainties across the 60 reactions, gives overall uncertainties on the annual mean tropospheric ozone burden, surface ozone and tropospheric OH concentrations, and tropospheric methane lifetime of 11, 12, 17 and 17 % respectively. These are larger than the spread between models in recent model inter-comparisons. Remote regions such as the tropics, poles, and upper troposphere are most uncertain. This chemical uncertainty is sufficiently large to suggest that rate constant uncertainty should be considered when model results disagree with measurement. Calculations for the pre-industrial allow a tropospheric ozone radiative forcing to be calculated of 0.412 ± 0.062 Wm−2. This uncertainty (15 %) is comparable to the inter-model spread in ozone radiative forcing found in previous model-model inter-comparison studies where the rate constants used in the models are all identical or very similar. Thus the uncertainty of tropospheric ozone radiative forcing should expanded to include this additional source of uncertainty. These rate constant uncertainties are significant and suggest that refinement of supposedly well known chemical rate constants should be considered alongside other improvements to enhance our understanding of atmospheric processes.
Modelling Atmospheric Mineral Aerosol Chemistry to Predict Heterogeneous Photooxidation of SO2
Authors: Yu Zechen , Jang Myoseon , Park Jiyeon
Published: March 2017

Abstract. The photocatalytic ability of airborne mineral dust particles is known to heterogeneously promote SO2 oxidation, but prediction of this phenomenon is not fully taken into account by current models. In this study, the Atmospheric Mineral Aerosol Reaction (AMAR) model was developed to capture the influence of air-suspended mineral dust particles on sulfate formation in various environments. In the model, SO2 oxidation proceeds in three phases including the gas phase, the inorganic-salted aqueous phase (non-dust phase), and the dust phase. Dust chemistry is described as the adsorption-desorption kinetics (gas-particle partitioning) of SO2 and NOx. The reaction of adsorbed SO2 on dust particles occurs via two major paths: autoxidation of SO2 in open air and photocatalytic mechanisms under UV light. The kinetic mechanism of autoxidation was first leveraged using controlled indoor chamber data in the presence of Arizona Test Dust (ATD) particles without UV light, and then extended to photochemistry. With UV light, SO2 photooxidation was promoted by surface oxidants (OH radicals) that are generated via the photocatalysis of semiconducting metal oxides (electron–hole theory) of ATD particles. This photocatalytic rate constant was derived from the integration of the combinational product of the dust absorbance spectrum and wave-dependent actinic flux for the full range of wavelengths of the light source. The predicted concentrations of sulfate and nitrate using the AMAR model agreed well with outdoor chamber data that were produced under natural sunlight. For seven consecutive hours of photooxidation of SO2 in an outdoor chamber, dust chemistry at the low NOx level was attributed to 70 % of total sulfate (60 ppb SO2, 290 μg m−3 ATD, and NOx less than 5 ppb). At high NOx (> 50 ppb of NOx with low hydrocarbons), sulfate formation was also greatly promoted by dust chemistry, but it was significantly suppressed by the competition between NO2 and SO2 that both consume the dust-surface oxidants (OH radicals or ozone). The AMAR model, derived in this study with ATD particles, will provide a platform for predicting sulfate formation in the presence of authentic dust particles (e.g. Gobi and Saharan dust).
Detectability of Arctic methane sources at six sites performing continuous atmospheric measurements
Authors: Thonat Thibaud , Saunois Marielle , Bousquet Philippe , Pison Isabelle , Tan Zeli , Zhuang Qianlai , Crill Patrick , Thornton Brett , Bastviken David , Dlugokencky Ed J. , Zimov Nikita , Laurila Tuomas , Hatakka Juha , Hermansen Ove , Worthy Doug E. J.
Published: March 2017

Abstract. Understanding the recent evolution of methane emissions in the Arctic is necessary to interpret the global methane cycle. Emissions are affected by significant uncertainties and are sensitive to climate change, leading to potential feedbacks. A polar version of the CHIMERE chemistry-transport model is used to simulate the evolution of tropospheric methane in the Arctic during 2012, including all known regional anthropogenic and natural sources. CHIMERE simulations are compared to atmospheric continuous observations at six measurement sites in the Arctic region. In winter, the Arctic is dominated by anthropogenic emissions; emissions from continental seepages and oceans, including from the East Siberian Arctic Shelf, can contribute significantly in more limited areas. In summer, emissions from wetland and freshwater sources dominate across the whole region. The model is able to reproduce the seasonality and synoptic variations of methane measured at the different sites. We find that all methane sources significantly affect the measurements at all stations at least at the synoptic scale, except for biomass burning; this indicates the relevance of continuous observations to gain a mechanistic understanding of Arctic methane sources. Sensitivity tests reveal that the choice of the land surface model used to prescribe wetland emissions can be critical in correctly representing methane concentrations. Also testing different freshwater emission inventories leads to large differences in modelled methane. Attempts to include methane sinks (OH oxidation and soil uptake) reduced the model bias relative to observed atmospheric CH4. The study illustrates how multiple sources, having different spatiotemporal dynamics and magnitudes, jointly influence the overall Arctic methane budget, and highlights ways towards further improved assessments.
Multifractal evaluation of simulated precipitation
intensities from the COSMO NWP model
Authors: Wolfensberger Daniel , Gires Auguste , Tchiguirinskaia Ioulia , Schertzer Daniel , Berne Alexis
Published: March 2017

Abstract. The framework of universal multifractals allows to characterize the spatio-temporal variability of fields over a wide range of scales with only a limited number of scale-invariant parameters. In this work, we perform a multifractal analysis of simulated fields of water contents in liquid, solid and gas phase from the COSMO numerical weather prediction model during three different events (one cold front associated with heavy snowfall, one stationary front with stratiform rain and one summer convection event) over Switzerland. The multifractal parameters of precipitation intensities at the ground are also compared with those obtained from the Swiss radar composite. The results of the analysis show that the COSMO simulations exhibit spatial scaling breaks that are not present in the radar data, indicating that the model is not able to simulate the observed variability at all scales. The impact of the topography on these conclusions was assessed by comparing a very steep area to a mostly flat area. It was observed that the topography does not seem to play a dominant role in the multifractal characterization of the COSMO water contents. Additionally, a spatio-temporal multifractal analysis of the COSMO simulations and the radar composite was performed and compared with a simplified scaling model of space-time variability.
Symbiosis revisited: phosphorus and acid buffering stimulate N2 fixation but not Sphagnum growth
Authors: van den Elzen Eva , Kox Martine A. R. , Harpenslager Sarah F. , Hensgens Geert , Fritz Christian , Jetten Mike S. M. , Ettwig Katharina F. , Lamers Leon P. M.
Published: March 2017

Abstract. In pristine Sphagnum-dominated peatlands, (di)nitrogen (N2) fixing (diazotrophic) microbial communities associated with Sphagnum mosses contribute substantially to the total nitrogen input, increasing carbon sequestration. The rates of symbiotic nitrogen fixation reported for Sphagnum peatlands, are, however, highly variable, and experimental work on regulating factors that can mechanistically explain this variation is largely lacking. For two common fen species (Sphagnum palustre and S. squarrosum) from a high nitrogen deposition area (25 kg N ha−1 yr−1), we found that diazotrophic activity (as measured by 15 − 15N2 labeling) was still present at a rate of 40 nmol N gDW−1 h−1. This was surprising, given that nitrogen fixation is a costly process. We tested the effects of phosphorus availability and buffering capacity by bicarbonate-rich water, mimicking a field situation in fens with stronger groundwater or surface water influence, as potential regulators of nitrogen fixation rates and Sphagnum performance. We expected that the addition of phosphorus, being a limiting nutrient, would stimulate both diazotrophic activity and Sphagnum growth. We indeed found that nitrogen fixation rates were doubled. Plant performance, in contrast, did not increase. Raised bicarbonate levels also enhanced nitrogen fixation, but had a strong negative impact on Sphagnum performance. These results explain the higher nitrogen fixation rates reported for minerotrophic and more nutrient-rich peatlands. In addition, nitrogen fixation was found to strongly depend on light, with rates 10 times higher in light conditions suggesting high reliance on phototrophic organisms for carbon. The contrasting effects of phosphorus and bicarbonate on Sphagnum spp. and their diazotrophic communities reveal strong differences in the optimal niche for both partners with respect to conditions and resources. This suggests a trade-off for the symbiosis of nitrogen fixing microorganisms with their Sphagnum hosts, in which a sheltered environment apparently outweighs the less favorable environmental conditions. We conclude that microbial activity is still nitrogen limited under eutrophic conditions because dissolved nitrogen is being monopolized by Sphagnum. Moreover, the fact that diazotrophic activity can significantly be upregulated by increased phosphorus addition and acid buffering, while Sphagnum spp. do not benefit, reveals remarkable differences in optimal conditions for both symbiotic partners and calls into question the regulation of nitrogen fixation by Sphagnum under these eutrophic conditions. The high nitrogen fixation rates result in high additional nitrogen loading of 6 kg ha−1 yr−1 on top of the high nitrogen deposition in these ecosystems.
Changes in Holocene meridional circulation and poleward Atlantic flow: the Bay of Biscay as a nodal point
Authors: Mary Yannick , Eynaud Frédérique , Colin Christophe , Rossignol Linda , Brocheray Sandra , Mojtahid Meryem , Garcia Jennifer , Peral Marion , Howa Hélène , Zaragosi Sébastien , Cremer Michel
Published: March 2017

Abstract. This paper documents the evolution over the last 10 kyr of one of the key parameters of climate: sea-surface temperatures (SSTs) in the North Atlantic. We focus on the southern Bay of Biscay, a highly sensitive oceanographic area regarding the dynamics of the North Atlantic subpolar and subtropical gyres (SPG and STG respectively). This site furthermore offers unique sedimentary environments characterized by exceptional accumulation rates, enabling the study of Holocene archives at (infra)centennial scales. Our results mainly derive from planktonic foraminiferal association analysis on two cores from the southern Landes Plateau. These associations are used as the basis of modern analogue technique transfer functions to track past hydrographical changes. SST reconstructions were thus obtained at an exceptional resolution and compared to a compilation of Holocene records from the northeastern North Atlantic. From this regional perspective are shown fundamental timing differences between the gyre dynamics, nuancing classical views of a simple meridional overturning cell. Our study highlights that western Europe underwent significant oscillations of (annual) SST during the last 10 kyr. During well-known intervals of mild boreal climate, warm shifts of more than 3 °C per century are accurately concomitant with positive sea-surface temperature anomalies and rise of micropalaeontological indicators of gyre dynamics in the northern North Atlantic, pointing to periods of greater intensity of the North Atlantic Current (SPG cell especially). Conversely, the SST signal records short-term cold anomalies which could be related to weaker SPG dynamics.