bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biogeochemical fluxes and fate of diazotroph-derived nitrogen in the food web after a phosphate enrichment: modeling of the VAHINE mesocosms experiment
Authors: Gimenez Audrey , Baklouti Melika , Bonnet Sophie , Moutin Thierry
Published: September 2016

Abstract. The VAHINE mesocosm experiment in the oligotrophic waters of the Nouméa lagoon (New Caledonia), where high N2 fixation rates and abundant diazotroph organisms were observed, aimed to assess the role of the nitrogen input through N2 fixation in carbon production and export and to study the fate of diazotroph-derived nitrogen (DDN) throughout the planktonic food web. A 1-D vertical biogeochemical mechanistic model was used in addition to the in situ experiment to enrich our understanding of the dynamics of the planktonic ecosystem and the main biogeochemical carbon (C), nitrogen (N) and phosphate (P) fluxes. The mesocosms were intentionally enriched with  ∼  0.8 µmol L−1 of inorganic P to trigger the development of diazotrophs and amplify biogeochemical fluxes. Two simulations were run, one with and the other without the phosphate enrichment. In the P-enriched simulation, N2 fixation, primary production (PP) and C export increased by 201, 208 and 87 %, respectively, consistent with the trends observed in the mesocosms (+124, +141 and +261 % for N2 fixation, PP and C export, respectively). In total, 5–10 days were necessary to obtain an increase in primary and export productions after the dissolved inorganic phosphate (DIP) enrichment, thereby suggesting that classical methods (short-term microcosms experiments) used to quantify nutrient limitations of primary production may not be relevant. The model enabled us to monitor the fate of fixed N2 by providing the proportion of DDN in each compartment (inorganic and organic) of the model over time. At the end of the simulation (25 days), 43 % of the DDN was found in the non-diazotroph organisms, 33 % in diazotrophs, 16 % in the dissolved organic nitrogen pool, 3 % in the particulate detrital organic pool and 5 % in traps, indicating that N2 fixation was of benefit to non-diazotrophic organisms and contributed to C export.
The Last Glacial Termination on the eastern flank of the central Patagonian Andes (47° S)
Authors: Henríquez William  I. , Villa-Martínez Rodrigo , Vilanova I. , De Pol-Holz R. , Moreno P.
Published: September 2016

Abstract. Few studies have examined in detail the sequence of events during the last glacial termination (T1) in the core sector of the Patagonian Ice Sheet (PIS), the largest ice mass in the southern hemisphere outside Antarctica. Here we report results from Lago Edita (47°8' S, 72°25' W, 570 m.a.s.l.), a small closed-basin lake located in a valley overridden by eastward-flowing Andean glaciers during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM). Lago Edita shows glaciolacustrine sedimentation until 19,400 yr BP and a mosaic of cold-resistant, hygrophilous conifers and rainforest trees, along with alpine herbs between 11,000-19,400 yr BP. Increases in arboreal pollen at 13,200 and 11,000 yr BP led to the establishment of forests near Lago Edita between 9000–10,000 yr BP. Our data suggest that the PIS retreated at least ~90 km from its LGM limit between ~19,400–21,000 yr BP and that scattered, low-density populations of cold-resistant hygrophilous conifers, rainforest trees, high Andean and steppe herbs thrived east of the Andes during the LGM and T1, implying high precipitation and SWW intensity at 47° S. We interpret large-magnitude increases in arboreal vegetation as treeline-rise episodes driven by warming pulses at 13,200 and 11,000 yr BP coupled with a decline in SWW influence at ~11,000 yr BP, judging from the disappearance of cold-resistant hygrophilous trees and herbs. We propose that the PIS imposed a regional cooling signal along its eastern, downwind margin through T1 that lasted until the separation of the North and South Patagonian icefields along the Andes. We posit that the withdrawal of glacial and associated glaciolacustrine environments through T1 provided a route for the dispersal of hygrophilous trees and herbs from the eastern flank of the central Patagonian Andes, contributing to the afforestation of the western Andean slopes and pacific coasts of central Patagonia during T1.
The influence of riparian evapotranspiration on stream hydrology and nitrogen retention in a subhumid Mediterranean catchment
Authors: Lupon Anna , Bernal Susana , Poblador Sílvia , Martí Eugènia , Sabater Francesc
Published: September 2016

Abstract. Riparian evapotranspiration (ET) can influence stream hydrology at catchment scale by promoting the net loss of water from the stream towards the riparian zone (i.e., stream hydrological retention). However, the consequences of stream hydrological retention on nitrogen dynamics are not well understood. To fill this gap of knowledge, we investigated changes in riparian ET, stream discharge, and nutrient chemistry in two contiguous reaches (headwater and valley) with contrasted riparian forest size in a small forested Mediterranean catchment. Additionally, riparian groundwater level (hgw) was measured at the valley reach. The temporal pattern of riparian ET was similar between reaches, and was positively correlated with hgw (ρ  =  0.60) and negatively correlated with net riparian groundwater inputs (ρ  <  −0.55). During the vegetative period, stream hydrological retention occurred mostly at the valley reach (59 % of the time), and was accompanied by in-stream nitrate release and ammonium uptake. During the dormant period, when the stream gained water from riparian groundwater, results showed small influences of riparian ET on stream hydrology and nitrogen concentrations. Despite being a small component of annual water budgets (4.5 %), our results highlight that riparian ET drives stream and groundwater hydrology in this Mediterranean catchment and, furthermore, question the potential of the riparian zone as a natural filter of nitrogen loads.
Local impact analysis of climate change on precipitation extremes: are high-resolution climate models needed for realistic simulations?
Authors: Tabari Hossein , De Troch Rozemien , Giot Olivier , Hamdi Rafiq , Termonia Piet , Saeed Sajjad , Brisson Erwan , Van Lipzig Nicole , Willems Patrick
Published: September 2016

Abstract. This study explores whether climate models with higher spatial resolutions provide higher accuracy for precipitation simulations and/or different climate change signals. The outputs from two convection-permitting climate models (ALARO and CCLM) with a spatial resolution of 3–4 km are compared with those from the coarse-scale driving models or reanalysis data for simulating/projecting daily and sub-daily precipitation quantiles. Validation of historical design precipitation statistics derived from intensity–duration–frequency (IDF) curves shows a better match of the convection-permitting model results with the observations-based IDF statistics compared to the driving GCMs and reanalysis data. This is the case for simulation of local sub-daily precipitation extremes during the summer season, while the convection-permitting models do not appear to bring added value to simulation of daily precipitation extremes. Results moreover indicate that one has to be careful in assuming spatial-scale independency of climate change signals for the delta change downscaling method, as high-resolution models may show larger changes in extreme precipitation. These larger changes appear to be dependent on the timescale, since such intensification is not observed for daily timescales for both the ALARO and CCLM models.
Monitoring soil moisture from middle to high elevation in
Switzerland: Set-up and first results from the SOMOMOUNT
network
Authors: Pellet Cécile , Hauck Christian
Published: September 2016

Abstract. Besides its important role in the energy and water balance at the soil-atmosphere interface, soil moisture can be a particular important factor in mountain environments since it influences the amount of freezing and thawing in the subsurface and can affect the stability of slopes. In permafrost areas, it is strongly linked to the ground ice content and by this modifies the characteristics and behaviour of periglacial landforms. In spite of its importance, the technical challenges and its strong spatial variability usually prevents soil moisture from being measured operationally at high and/or middle altitudes. This study describes the new Swiss soil moisture monitoring network SOMOMOUNT launched in 2013 consisting in six entirely automated soil moisture stations distributed along an altitudinal gradient between the Jura Mountains and the Swiss Alps, ranging from 1205 m to 3410 m elevation. In addition to the standard instrumentation comprising Frequency Domain Reflectometry (FDR) and Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) sensors along vertical profiles, soil probes and meteorological data are available at each station. In this contribution we will present a detailed description of the SOMOMOUNT instrumentation and calibration procedures. Additionally, the data collected during the three first years of the project will be discussed in relation to their altitudinal distribution. Clear differences in soil moisture patterns are visible between sites with permanently and seasonally frozen as well as unfrozen ground conditions and can be related to several factors such as the subsurface composition (organic versus mineral), the elevation and the snow cover characteristics.
Surface movement above an underground coal longwall mine after closure
Authors: Vervoort André
Published: September 2016

Abstract. The surface movement in an area of about 22 km2 above the underground coal mine of Houthalen was analyzed based on Interferometry with Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) measurements. After its closure in 1992, a residual subsidence was observed over a period of several years, followed by an uplift of the surface above and around the past longwall panels, whereby the rate of movement was, in absolute terms, of the same order for the two types of movements. The processes behind these movements are different. The process of subsidence is caused by the caving of the roof above the mined-out area and is mainly a mechanical stress-deformation process, including time-dependent aspects. However, the process of uplift is most probably caused by the swelling of the clay minerals in the argillaceous rocks in the coal strata after the flooding of the underground workings. Hence, the areas in which there is the greatest risk of damage to the surface infrastructure are not the same for the hazards linked to subsidence and uplift. For example, the zone in which the maximum uplift occurs clearly is at a different location from that of the zone with the maximum residual subsidence. There is no clear sign that the amount of mining underneath affects the residual subsidence, and there is no indication that the process of uplift is linked directly to the mining characteristics. It is more likely that uplift as the result of flooding is initiated at, or close to, the vertical shafts.
Direct visualization of solute locations in laboratory ice samples
Authors: Hullar Ted , Anastasio Cort
Published: September 2016

Abstract. Many important chemical reactions occur in polar snow, where solutes may be present in several reservoirs, including at the air–ice interface and in liquid-like regions within the ice matrix. Some recent laboratory studies suggest chemical reaction rates may differ in these two reservoirs. While investigations have examined where solutes are found in natural snow and ice, few studies have examined either solute locations in laboratory samples or the possible factors controlling solute segregation. To address this, we used micro-computed tomography (microCT) to examine solute locations in ice samples prepared from either aqueous cesium chloride (CsCl) or rose bengal solutions that were frozen using several different methods. Samples frozen in a laboratory freezer had the largest liquid-like inclusions and air bubbles, while samples frozen in a custom freeze chamber had somewhat smaller air bubbles and inclusions; in contrast, samples frozen in liquid nitrogen showed much smaller concentrated inclusions and air bubbles, only slightly larger than the resolution limit of our images (∼ 2 µm). Freezing solutions in plastic vs. glass vials had significant impacts on the sample structure, perhaps because the poor heat conductivity of plastic vials changes how heat is removed from the sample as it cools. Similarly, the choice of solute had a significant impact on sample structure, with rose bengal solutions yielding smaller inclusions and air bubbles compared to CsCl solutions frozen using the same method. Additional experiments using higher-resolution imaging of an ice sample show that CsCl moves in a thermal gradient, supporting the idea that the solutes in ice are present in mobile liquid-like regions. Our work shows that the structure of laboratory ice samples, including the location of solutes, is sensitive to the freezing method, sample container, and solute characteristics, requiring careful experimental design and interpretation of results.
Heterogeneous glacier thinning patterns over the last 40 years in Langtang
Himal, Nepal
Authors: Ragettli Silvan , Bolch Tobias , Pellicciotti Francesca
Published: September 2016

Abstract. This study presents volume and mass changes of seven (five partially debris-covered, two debris-free) glaciers in the upper Langtang catchment in Nepal. We use a digital elevation model (DEM) from 1974 stereo Hexagon satellite data and seven DEMs derived from 2006–2015 stereo or tri-stereo satellite imagery (e.g., SPOT6/7). The availability of multiple independent DEM differences allows the identification of a robust signal and narrowing down of the uncertainty about recent volume changes. The volume changes calculated over several multiyear periods between 2006 and 2015 consistently indicate that glacier thinning has accelerated with respect to the period 1974–2006. We calculate an ensemble-mean elevation change rate of –0.45 ± 0.18 m a−1 for 2006–2015, while for the period 1974–2006 we compute a rate of −0.24 ± 0.08 m a−1. However, the behavior of glaciers in the study area is heterogeneous, and the presence or absence of debris does not seem to be a good predictor for mass balance trends. Debris-covered tongues have nonlinear thinning profiles, and we show that recent accelerations in thinning correlate with the presence of supraglacial cliffs and lakes. At stagnating glacier areas near the glacier front, however, thinning rates decreased with time or remained constant. The April 2015 Nepal earthquake triggered large avalanches in the study catchment. Analysis of two post-earthquake DEMs revealed that the avalanche deposit volumes remaining 6 months after the earthquake are negligible in comparison to 2006–2015 elevation changes. However, the deposits compensate about 40 % the mass loss of debris-covered tongues of 1 average year.
Modern Management of Endometrioma-Associated Infertility: in Favor of ART
Authors: Ruiz-Flores Francisco J. , Garcia-Velasco Juan A.
Published: September 2016

Introduction

Endometrioma is present in 17% to 40% of women with endometriosis. Since it has been traditionally believed that the presence of an endometrioma adversely affects the outcome of assisted reproductive technology (ART), surgery has been suggested by many practitioners before advancing to ART, in the hope of improving results.

Scientific Evidence

In the present article, we outline the impact of an endometrioma on the ovarian reserve and describe how surgical resection of an endometriotic cyst affects ovarian reserve, ovarian response after stimulation and ART outcome. Several studies suggest that the sole presence of an endometrioma may have a negative impact on ovarian reserve of the affected ovary, and surgery (particularly cystectomy) has been the choice of treatment in ovarian endometriosis for many years. However, detrimental effects of laparoscopic surgical removal on ovarian reserve and responsiveness to hyperstimulation has made that ART practices are shifting towards a more conservative approach: experimental and clinical data supporting this shift are thoroughly reviewed here.

Clinical Implications

Opposed to the conventional criteria of performing cystectomy when ovarian endometrioma is observed, careful consideration of patient symptoms as well as her age and ovarian reserve will help to select the patients that require surgery prior to ART, whereas the majority will not need surgery prior to ART; even more, surgery may compromise ovarian reserve in most cases even if performed by careful surgeons.

Conclusions

Individualization of the treatment is imperative. Each case should be thoroughly assessed, looking at both the advantages and complications of cyst removal prior to ART. Surgery should be approached with caution in women with endometriomas, especially if the woman has had previous ovarian surgery. In the presence of infertility, we recommend generally sparing surgical treatment and proceeding directly to ART. This reduces the time to achieve a pregnancy, avoids potential surgical risks and limits patient costs.
Neuromodulation for the Treatment of Endometriosis-Related Symptoms
Authors: Lemos Nucelio L.B.M. , Lemos Nereusa M.B.M.
Published: September 2016

Sacral and pudendal neuromodulation have been advocated for the treatment of refractory pelvic pain, urinary urgency and retention, as well as fecal incontinence or constipation, all of which are commonly related to endometriosis and/or its surgical treatment.

In this review, the mechanisms of action and different routes of neuromodulation will be detailed, as well as all the studied applications of neuromodulation on ameliorating symptoms related to endometriosis and/or its treatment.
Impact of Bowel Endometriosis Surgery on Bowel and Bladder Function, Pain Symptoms and Quality of Life
Authors: Michalak Katarzyna A. , Cameron-Jeffs Ruth , Yen Aileen H.F. , Fernandes Hugo M. , Shedda Susan M. , Chen Frank C. , Healey Martin G.
Published: September 2016

Purpose

To evaluate the impact of bowel endometriosis surgery on obstructive defecation syndrome symptoms, bladder dysfunction, pain symptoms and quality of life (QOL).

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent surgery for endometriosis where bowel was involved between 2005 and 2013. Patients were grouped according to extent of bowel endometriosis treatment: Group 1 - no treatment of bowel endometriosis, Group 2 - “shaving” of endometriosis, Group 3 - wedge resection, or Group 4 - segmental bowel resection. Data were collected via chart review and a mail-out survey consisting of six validated questionnaires designed to evaluate the study aims.

Results

Of 337 eligible patients, completed survey responses were returned by 99. There were 22 patients in Group 1, 61 in Group 2, 5 in Group 3 and 11 in Group 4. Patient demographic data were similar across the groups. There was no difference in disease severity between Groups 1-4, nor between respondents and non-respondents. Patients in Group 4 were more likely to have open surgery (p<0.001) and to have a stoma placed (p = 0.001). Patients in Group 3 were more likely to have dysmenorrhoea post-operatively (p = 0.02). Otherwise, bowel and bladder symptoms, pain, and health status were comparable between the groups, with a low incidence of bladder symptoms, generally low pain scores, and high QOL for all patients.

Conclusions

Deciding the extent of surgical aggressiveness based on symptom severity has resulted in similar long-term post-operative bowel and bladder symptoms, pain scores, quality of life and overall health across the groups.
Retroperitoneal Anatomy during Excision of Pelvic Side Wall Endometriosis
Authors: Gingold Julian A. , Falcone Tommaso
Published: September 2016

Surgical management of endometriosis has been shown to improve dysmenorrhea at all disease stages and is recommended in severe disease for treatment of infertility. Deeply infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) produces thick inflammatory tissue that precludes visualization of anatomical landmarks and distorts normal anatomy. Excision of DIE poses several technical and surgical challenges that mandate a clear understanding of the anatomy of the pelvic sidewall. This review details relevant surgical anatomy and addresses the principles of safe retroperitoneal entry, ureterolysis and excision of endometriotic lesions. Proper use of these techniques should facilitate safe and successful surgery for management of DIE.
REARING TANYPODINAE, TELMATOGETONINAE AND ORTHOCLADIINAE IN BRAZIL – AN EMPIRICAL APPROACH
Authors: Mendes Humberto Fonseca
Published: September 2016

--
Chironomids also favour fermented products: an observation of chironomids dwelling in rotten apples
Authors: Hamerlik Ladislav , Barbierikova Michaela , Bitušik Peter
Published: September 2016

Here we bring evidence of larvae of three chironomid taxa dwelling in fallen apples in an urban pond. Larvae of Endochironomus tendens (also a pupa), Cricotopus cf. sylvestris and Polypedilum sp. were found mining in more than 80% of investigated rotten apples floating on a water surface. Our findings indicate that fallen fruits may play an important food source for some aquatic chironomids not only in the tropics but also in the temperate zone. Such habitat may also serve as shelter from fish predators.
Progress of Medical School Musculoskeletal Education in the 21st Century
Authors: Day Charles S. , Ho Patrick
Published: September 2016

The prevalence and cost of musculoskeletal diseases have increased dramatically over the last several decades, with more than half of US adults currently affected by a musculoskeletal condition. In response to this development, multiple institutions began reassessing the depth and effectiveness of their musculoskeletal education curriculum. After reporting a deficiency in required preclinical coursework, medical schools began implementing new and varied musculoskeletal programs. These changes have met with mixed success, as demonstrated by scores on competency examinations. To address discrepancies in knowledge and confidence levels and to ensure that physicians are equipped to manage musculoskeletal diseases in the 21st century, efforts to improve medical school education should continue.
Determining the Technical Efficiency of Hospitals in Tabriz City Using Data Envelopment Analysis for 2013-2014
Authors: Farzianpour Fereshteh , Emami Amir Hossein , Foroushani Abbas Rahimi , Ghiasi Akbar
Published: September 2016

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES: This study was conducted to evaluate the technical efficiency of hospitals (training and non-training hospitals of Tabriz city) affiliated with the Medical Science University, based on performance indicators and mathematical model of data envelopment analysis (DEA) in 2014.

METHODS: The present research is a cross sectional study conducted to assess the scale, technical and managerial efficiency of hospitals from2013 to2014. Then, a comparison of the collected data was made among the hospitals under study. The model of minimization of production factors and variable return was used in analyzing the data.

RESULTS: The collected information included two input groups which consisted of the number of physicians (general physicians and specialists), total personnel and active beds, and output groups which consisted of the number of out-patients and bed occupancy rate. Then, the technical, scale and managerial efficiency of the hospitals were calculated and the efficient (Performance Coefficient of E =1) and inefficient (below 1) hospitals were obtained. The average technical, scale and managerial efficiencies in both 2013 and 2014 was equal to 0.817, 0.956 and 0.856, respectively.

CONCLUSION: Hospitals having  lower efficiency can model  efficient reference hospitals, so as to increase their performance and also approach the efficiency border by better management of human and financial resources.
Corporate Governance Quality and Cash Conversion Cycle: Evidence from Jordan
Authors: Al-Rahahleh Ayat S.
Published: September 2016

This study aims at examining the impact of corporate governance quality on cash conversion cycle (CCC) in Jordan. Using OLS regression for a sample of all industrial companies listed on Amman Stock Exchange during the period (2009-2013). The results revealed that CCC is affected negatively by corporate governance quality, which provides an implication to industrial companies in Jordan to boost their compliance with corporate governance code in order to improve their working capital management efficiency. Furthermore, the outcomes showed a variation in corporate governance categories between sub-samples, which supports contingency theory that rejects the approach of “one size fits all”. The findings provide implications for future studies to deal with firm characteristics as context dependent rather than simply as control variables. The results also provide implications for regulatory bodies in Jordan that highlight the importance of “comply or explain” approach to some corporate governance rules embracing the “one size does not fit all” approach. This study fills a gap in the existing literature by studying the quality of corporate governance and by using the context dependent approach.
Concise Review: Paracrine Functions of Vascular Niche Cells in Regulating Hematopoietic Stem Cell Fate
Authors: Sasine Joshua P. , Yeo Kelly T. , Chute John P.
Published: September 2016

The functions of endothelial cells (ECs) in regulating oxygen delivery, nutrient exchange, coagulation, and transit of inflammatory cells throughout the body are well––established. ECs have also been shown to regulate the maintenance and regeneration of organ-specific stem cells in mammals. In the hematopoietic system, hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) are dependent on signals from the bone marrow (BM) vascular niche for their maintenance and regeneration after myelosuppressive injury. Recent studies have demonstrated the essential functions of BM ECs and perivascular stromal cells in regulating these processes. In the present study, we summarize the current understanding of the role of BM ECs and perivascular cells in regulating HSC maintenance and regeneration and highlight the contribution of newly discovered EC-derived paracrine factors that regulate HSC fate.
TIR1/AFB-Aux/IAA auxin perception mediates rapid cell wall acidification and growth of Arabidopsis hypocotyls
Authors: Fendrych Matyáš , Leung Jeffrey , Friml Jiří
Published: September 2016

Despite being composed of immobile cells, plants reorient along directional stimuli. The hormone auxin is redistributed in stimulated organs leading to differential growth and bending. Auxin application triggers rapid cell wall acidification and elongation of aerial organs of plants, but the molecular players mediating these effects are still controversial. Here we use genetically-encoded pH and auxin signaling sensors, pharmacological and genetic manipulations available for Arabidopsis etiolated hypocotyls to clarify how auxin is perceived and the downstream growth executed. We show that auxin-induced acidification occurs by local activation of H+-ATPases, which in the context of gravity response is restricted to the lower organ side. This auxin-stimulated acidification and growth require TIR1/AFB-Aux/IAA nuclear auxin perception. In addition, auxin-induced gene transcription and specifically SAUR proteins are crucial downstream mediators of this growth. Our study provides strong experimental support for the acid growth theory and clarified the contribution of the upstream auxin perception mechanisms.
Digital City: Chicago and Schaumburg (USA) Information, Sustainability Indicators and Public Services Projects
Authors: Rezende Denis Alcides
Published: September 2016

Information, sustainability indicators and efficient public services are a permanent challenge for cities concerned with citizens’ quality of life and effective local government. The objective of this study is to describe and assess the digital city projects in Chicago and Schaumburg (USA), using information, sustainability indicators and public services offered to citizens by the website. The research methodology consisted of case studies covering city hall, municipal departments, and other local governmental entities. The analysis and results show similarity in the typologies of information, sustainability indicators and public services but also large discrepancies in amount of service provided. The conclusion demonstrates the importance of making digital city projects a municipal priority. It resulted in benefits for citizens through access to information, sustainability indicators and public services offered by the administration and can contribute with the challenging issues of sustainability of cities, governments and citizens, as a form of participation in the planning and sustainability management in cities.
Aerosol and monsoon climate interactions over Asia
Authors: Li Zhanqing , Lau W. K.‐M. , Ramanathan V. , Wu G. , Ding Y. , Manoj M. G. , Liu J. , Qian Y. , Li J. , Zhou T. , Fan J. , Rosenfeld D. , Ming Y. , Wang Y. , Huang J. , Wang B. , Xu X. , Lee S.‐S. , Cribb M. , Zhang F. , Yang X. , Zhao C. , Takemura T. , Wang K. , Xia X. , Yin Y. , Zhang H. , Guo J. , Zhai P. M. , Sugimoto N. , Babu S. S. , Brasseur G. P.
Published: September 2016

The increasing severity of droughts/floods and worsening air quality from increasing aerosols in Asia monsoon regions are the two gravest threats facing over 60% of the world population living in Asian monsoon regions. These dual threats have fueled a large body of research in the last decade on the roles of aerosols in impacting Asian monsoon weather and climate. This paper provides a comprehensive review of studies on Asian aerosols, monsoons, and their interactions. The Asian monsoon region is a primary source of emissions of diverse species of aerosols from both anthropogenic and natural origins. The distributions of aerosol loading are strongly influenced by distinct weather and climatic regimes, which are, in turn, modulated by aerosol effects. On a continental scale, aerosols reduce surface insolation and weaken the land‐ocean thermal contrast, thus inhibiting the development of monsoons. Locally, aerosol radiative effects alter the thermodynamic stability and convective potential of the lower atmosphere leading to reduced temperatures, increased atmospheric stability, and weakened wind and atmospheric circulations. The atmospheric thermodynamic state, which determines the formation of clouds, convection, and precipitation, may also be altered by aerosols serving as cloud condensation nuclei or ice nuclei. Absorbing aerosols such as black carbon and desert dust in Asian monsoon regions may also induce dynamical feedback processes, leading to a strengthening of the early monsoon and affecting the subsequent evolution of the monsoon. Many mechanisms have been put forth regarding how aerosols modulate the amplitude, frequency, intensity, and phase of different monsoon climate variables. A wide range of theoretical, observational, and modeling findings on the Asian monsoon, aerosols, and their interactions are synthesized. A new paradigm is proposed on investigating aerosol‐monsoon interactions, in which natural aerosols such as desert dust, black carbon from biomass burning, and biogenic aerosols from vegetation are considered integral components of an intrinsic aerosol‐monsoon climate system, subject to external forcing of global warming, anthropogenic aerosols, and land use and change. Future research on aerosol‐monsoon interactions calls for an integrated approach and international collaborations based on long‐term sustained observations, process measurements, and improved models, as well as using observations to constrain model simulations and projections.
On the recent destabilization of the Gulf Stream path downstream of Cape Hatteras
Authors: Andres M.
Published: September 2016

Mapped satellite altimetry reveals interannual variability in the position of initiation of Gulf Stream meanders downstream of Cape Hatteras. The longitude where the Gulf Stream begins meandering varies by 1500 km. There has been a general trend for the destabilization point to shift west, and 5 of the last 6 years had a Gulf Stream destabilization point upstream of the New England Seamounts. Independent in situ data suggest that this shift has increased both upper‐ocean/deep‐ocean interaction events at Line W and open‐ocean/shelf interactions across the Middle Atlantic Bight (MAB) shelf break. Mooring data and along‐track altimetry indicate a recent increase in the number of deep cyclones that stir Deep Western Boundary Current waters from the MAB slope into the deep interior. Temperature profiles from the Oleander Program suggest that recent enhanced warming of the MAB shelf may be related to shifts in the Gulf Stream's destabilization point.
The impact of glacier geometry on meltwater plume structure and submarine melt in Greenland fjords
Authors: Carroll D. , Sutherland D. A. , Hudson B. , Moon T. , Catania G. A. , Shroyer E. L. , Nash J. D. , Bartholomaus T. C. , Felikson D. , Stearns L. A. , Noël B. P. Y. , van den Broeke M. R.
Published: September 2016

Meltwater from the Greenland Ice Sheet often drains subglacially into fjords, driving upwelling plumes at glacier termini. Ocean models and observations of submarine termini suggest that plumes enhance melt and undercutting, leading to calving and potential glacier destabilization. Here we systematically evaluate how simulated plume structure and submarine melt during summer months depends on realistic ranges of subglacial discharge, glacier depth, and ocean stratification from 12 Greenland fjords. Our results show that grounding line depth is a strong control on plume‐induced submarine melt: deep glaciers produce warm, salty subsurface plumes that undercut termini, and shallow glaciers produce cold, fresh surface‐trapped plumes that can overcut termini. Due to sustained upwelling velocities, plumes in cold, shallow fjords can induce equivalent depth‐averaged melt rates compared to warm, deep fjords. These results detail a direct ocean‐ice feedback that can affect the Greenland Ice Sheet.
Decaying shock studies of phase transitions in MgO‐SiO2 systems: Implications for the super‐Earths' interiors
Authors: Bolis R. M. , Morard G. , Vinci T. , Ravasio A. , Bambrink E. , Guarguaglini M. , Koenig M. , Musella R. , Remus F. , Bouchet J. , Ozaki N. , Miyanishi K. , Sekine T. , Sakawa Y. , Sano T. , Kodama R. , Guyot F. , Benuzzi‐Mounaix A.
Published: September 2016

We report an experimental study of the phase diagrams of MgO, MgSiO3, and Mg2SiO4 at high pressures. We measured the shock compression response, including pressure‐temperature Hugoniot curves of MgO, MgSiO3, and Mg2SiO4 between 0.2–1.2 TPa, 0.12–0.5 TPa, and 0.2–0.85 TPa, respectively, using laser‐driven decaying shocks. A melting signature has been observed in MgO at 0.47 ± 0.04 TPa and 9860 ± 810 K, while no such phase changes were observed either in MgSiO3 or in Mg2SiO4. Increases of reflectivity of MgO, MgSiO3, and Mg2SiO4 liquids have been detected above 0.55 TPa (12760 K), 0.15 TPa (7540 K), 0.2 TPa (5800 K), respectively. In contrast to SiO2, melting and metallization of these compounds do not coincide, implying the presence of poorly electrically conducting liquids close to the melting lines. This has important implications for the generation of dynamos in super‐Earth's mantles.
MyShake: Initial observations from a global smartphone seismic network
Authors: Kong Qingkai , Allen Richard M. , Schreier Louis
Published: September 2016

MyShake is a global smartphone seismic network that harnesses the power of crowdsourcing. In the first 6 months since the release of the MyShake app, there were almost 200,000 downloads. On a typical day about 8000 phones provide acceleration waveform data to the MyShake archive. The on‐phone app can detect and trigger on P waves and is capable of recording magnitude 2.5 and larger events. More than 200 seismic events have been recorded so far, including events in Chile, Argentina, Mexico, Morocco, Nepal, New Zealand, Taiwan, Japan, and across North America. The largest number of waveforms from a single earthquake to date comes from the M5.2 Borrego Springs earthquake in Southern California, for which MyShake collected 103 useful three‐component waveforms. The network continues to grow with new downloads from the Google Play store everyday and expands rapidly when public interest in earthquakes peaks such as during an earthquake sequence.
Ion and aerosol precursor densities in Titan's ionosphere: A multi‐instrument case study
Authors: Shebanits O. , Wahlund J.‐E. , Edberg N. J. T. , Crary F. J. , Wellbrock A. , Andrews D. J. , Vigren E. , Desai R. T. , Coates A. J. , Mandt K. E. , Waite J. H.
Published: September 2016

The importance of the heavy ions and dust grains for the chemistry and aerosol formation in Titan's ionosphere has been well established in the recent years of the Cassini mission. In this study we combine independent in situ plasma (Radio Plasma and Wave Science Langmuir Probe (RPWS/LP)) and particle (Cassini Plasma Science Electron Spectrometer, Cassini Plasma Science Ion Beam Spectrometer, and Ion and Neutral Mass Spectrometer) measurements of Titan's ionosphere for selected flybys (T16, T29, T40, and T56) to produce altitude profiles of mean ion masses including heavy ions and develop a Titan‐specific method for detailed analysis of the RPWS/LP measurements (applicable to all flybys) to further constrain ion charge densities and produce the first empirical estimate of the average charge of negative ions and/or dust grains. Our results reveal the presence of an ion‐ion (dusty) plasma below ~1100 km altitude, with charge densities exceeding the primary ionization peak densities by a factor ≥2 in the terminator and nightside ionosphere (ne/ni ≤ 0.1). We suggest that ion‐ion (dusty) plasma may also be present in the dayside ionosphere below 900 km (ne/ni < 0.5 at 1000 km altitude). The average charge of the dust grains (≥1000 amu) is estimated to be between −2.5 and −1.5 elementary charges, increasing toward lower altitudes.
Characterization and assessment of the meteotsunami hazard in northern Lake Michigan
Authors: Linares Álvaro , Bechle Adam J. , Wu Chin H.
Published: September 2016

The meteotsunami hazard is assessed in northern Lake Michigan from both short‐term and long‐term records of water level, wind speed, and air pressure. Cross‐wavelet analysis reveals that meteotsunamis can be caused by atmospheric disturbances that are pressure dominated, wind dominated, or both pressure and wind forced. In total, air pressure and wind stress are found to contribute similarly to meteotsunami initiation in northern Lake Michigan. The pressure‐driven meteotsunamis tend to be associated with convective storms, whereas meteotsunamis that are mainly wind‐driven are associated more with cyclonic‐type storms. The atmospheric disturbances responsible for largest meteotsunamis in northern Lake Michigan are found to have a propagation speed close to 32 m/s and from the south to north direction. A heuristic approach is developed to estimate the maximum meteotsunami height from the atmospheric disturbance strength and velocity. Overall, the heuristic approach is shown to be an effective methodology to assess the meteotsunami hazard over a wide range of potential atmospheric disturbance conditions.
Late Cretaceous–earliest Paleogene deformation in the Longmen Shan fold‐and‐thrust belt, eastern Tibetan Plateau margin: Pre‐Cenozoic thickened crust?
Authors: Tian Yuntao , Kohn Barry P. , Phillips David , Hu Shengbiao , Gleadow Andrew J. W. , Carter Andrew
Published: September 2016

This study presents structural and40Ar/39Ar geochronological data from the southern part of the Longmen Shan fold‐and‐thrust belt that forms the eastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau. Investigations focused on hinterland ductile top‐to‐the‐WNW shear deformation, which has been linked previously to late Cenozoic lower crustal flow. Consistent with previous studies, the sense of deformation is mapped as top‐to‐the‐WNW in the Longmen Shan hinterland. The timing of the deformation is constrained by40Ar/39Ar geochronological data of recrystallized minerals aligned along the shear foliation as Late Cretaceous–earliest Paleogene, thus predating the inferred late Cenozoic crustal flow. This deformation is contemporaneous with SE verging thrusting and loading along the Longmen Shan front, which formed a coeval ~2–3 km thick foredeep sequence along the southwestern margin of the Sichuan Basin. In the context of the regional geology, this tectonic configuration could result from either extrusion of a crustal wedge or back thrust in a duplex. Compared to other orogens, where similar crustal configurations have been reported, it is speculated that the eastern Tibetan Plateau margin acquired thickened crust and highly elevated topography in Late Cretaceous–earliest Paleogene time.
Highly Sensitive, Wearable, Durable Strain Sensors and Stretchable Conductors Using Graphene/Silicon Rubber Composites
Authors: Shi Ge , Zhao Zhiheng , Pai Jing‐Hong , Lee Ivan , Zhang Liqun , Stevenson Craig , Ishara Kalana , Zhang Rujing , Zhu Hongwei , Ma Jun
Published: September 2016

Highly sensitive, wearable and durable strain sensors are vital to the development of health monitoring systems, smart robots and human machine interfaces. The recent sensor fabrication progress is respectable, but it is limited by complexity, low sensitivity and unideal service life. Herein a facile, cost‐effective and scalable method is presented for the development of high‐performance strain sensors and stretchable conductors based on a composite film consisting of graphene platelets (GnPs) and silicon rubber. Through calculation by the tunneling theory using experimental data, the composite film has demonstrated ideal linear and reproducible sensitivity to tensile strains, which is contributed by the superior piezoresistivity of GnPs having tunable gauge factors 27.7–164.5. The composite sensors fabricated in different days demonstrate pretty similar performance, enabling applications as a health‐monitoring device to detect various human motions from finger bending to pulse. They can be used as electronic skin, a vibration sensor and a human‐machine interface controller. Stretchable conductors are made by coating and encapsulating GnPs with polydimethyl siloxane to create another composite; this structure allows the conductor to be readily bent and stretched with sufficient mechanical robustness and cyclability.
Rapid Fabrication of Soft, Multilayered Electronics for Wearable Biomonitoring
Authors: Bartlett Michael D. , Markvicka Eric J. , Majidi Carmel
Published: September 2016

Soft integrated electronics are key components for emerging applications in wearable biomonitoring, soft co‐robotics, and physical human–machine interaction. They are composed of soft and elastically deformable circuits and sensors that are combined with packaged microelectronics for signal processing, power regulation, and communication. While promising, widespread use of soft wearable electronics is currently limited by the lack of robust fabrication techniques to rapidly, efficiently, and precisely assemble soft and rigid components into multilayered systems. Here, an efficient digital fabrication approach is presented to create highly customizable wearable electronics through rapid laser machining and adhesion controlled soft materials assembly. Well aligned, multilayered materials are created from 2D and 3D elements that stretch and bend while seamlessly integrating with rigid components such as microchip integrated circuits, discrete electrical components, and interconnects. These techniques are applied using commercially available materials and components and the fabrication of thin, lightweight, customized sensor skins is demonstrated in under an hour. These fully integrated wireless devices conformably bond to the hand and are successfully used for monitoring hand gesture, pulse rate, and blood oxygenation. These materials and methods enable custom wearable electronics while offering versatility in design and functionality for a variety of applications through material selection and construction.
Magnetic/Fluorescent Barcodes Based on Cadmium‐Free Near‐Infrared‐Emitting Quantum Dots for Multiplexed Detection
Authors: Leng Yuankui , Wu Weijie , Li Li , Lin Kun , Sun Kang , Chen Xiaoyuan , Li Wanwan
Published: September 2016

Magnetic/fluorescent barcodes, which combine quantum dots (QDs) and superparamagnetic nanoparticles in micrometer‐sized host microspheres, are promising for automatic high‐throughput multiplexed biodetection applications and “point of care” biodetection. However, the fluorescence intensity of QDs sharply decreases after addition of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) due to absorption by MNPs, and thus, the encoding capacity of QDs becomes more limited. Furthermore, the intrinsic toxicity of cadmium‐based QDs, the most commonly used QD in barcodes, has significant risks to human health and the environment. In this work, to alleviate fluorescence quenching and intrinsic toxicity, cadmium‐free NIR‐emitting CuInS2/ZnS QDs and Fe3O4MNPs are successfully incorporated into poly(styrene‐co‐maleic anhydride) microspheres by using the Shirasu porous glass membrane emulsification technique. A “single‐wavelength” encoding model is successfully constructed to guide the encoding of NIR QDs with wide emission spectra. Then, a “single‐wavelength” encoding combined with size encoding is used to produce different optical codes by simply changing the wavelength and the intensity of the QDs as well as the size of the barcode microspheres. 48 barcodes are easily created due to the greatly reduced energy transfer between the NIR‐emitting QDs and MNPs. The resulting bifunctional barcodes are also combined with a flow cytometer using one laser for multiplexed detection of five tumor markers in one test. Assays based on these barcodes are significantly more sensitive than non‐magnetic and traditional ELISA assays. Moreover, validating experiments also show good performance of the bifunctional barcodes‐based suspension array when dealing with patient serum samples. Thus, magnetic/fluorescent barcodes based on NIR‐emitting CuInS2/ZnS QDs are promising for multiplexed bioassay applications.
Smart Utilization of Carbon Dots in Semiconductor Photocatalysis
Authors: Yu Huijun , Shi Run , Zhao Yufei , Waterhouse Geoffrey I. N. , Wu Li‐Zhu , Tung Chen‐Ho , Zhang Tierui
Published: September 2016

Efficient capture of solar energy will be critical to meeting the energy needs of the future. Semiconductor photocatalysis is expected to make an important contribution in this regard, delivering both energy carriers (especially H2) and valuable chemical feedstocks under direct sunlight. Over the past few years, carbon dots (CDs) have emerged as a promising new class of metal‐free photocatalyst, displaying semiconductor‐like photoelectric properties and showing excellent performance in a wide variety of photoelectrochemical and photocatalytic applications owing to their ease of synthesis, unique structure, adjustable composition, ease of surface functionalization, outstanding electron‐transfer efficiency and tunable light‐harvesting range (from deep UV to the near‐infrared). Here, recent advances in the rational design of CDs‐based photocatalysts are highlighted and their applications in photocatalytic environmental remediation, water splitting into hydrogen, CO2 reduction, and organic synthesis are discussed.